NATIONAL UNIVERSITY MANILA

COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ARCHITECTURE

SECOND TERM SY. 2023-2024

APLANN01: SITE PLANNING AND

LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

RESEARCH NO. 1

CABUHAT, CHRISTAL A.
ARC216

Ar. Russel N. Bulao, UAP, MsCM

Professor

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I.HISTORY OF LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE IN THE PHILIPPINES

Landscape architecture is the comprehensive practice that involves planning, designing,

specifying, supervising, and providing overall administration and direction for the functional,
orderly, and visually pleasing arrangement, alteration, and enhancement of natural landscapes
and land areas. This includes creating optimal environments for human use and enjoyment,
such as gardens, sports fields, playgrounds, and other outdoor spaces. Additionally, landscape
architecture encompasses activities aimed at the protection, conservation, and rehabilitation
of the natural environment and scenery, thereby contributing to the improvement of
ecological systems and the overall quality of life. The practice involves a scientific approach,
coordinating various processes through preliminary studies, consultations, investigations,
evaluations, and the development of plans, specifications, and contract documents. It also
includes providing oral advice, direction, and teaching on key landscape architecture subjects.

The history of landscape architecture in the Philippines is deeply intertwined with the
nation's rich cultural heritage and diverse environmental landscapes. Indigenous practices,
colonial influences, and modern trends have all contributed to the evolution of landscape
design in the archipelago.

During the pre-colonial period, landscape architecture in the Philippines was heavily
influenced by the indigenous cultures and traditions of the diverse ethnic groups living in the
archipelago. These communities employed advanced techniques for land cultivation and
environmental care, resulting in landscapes that were both utilitarian and visually appealing.

The Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordilleras (see Figure 2) stand as a remarkable
testament to a rich cultural landscape that has evolved over two millennia in the pre-colonial
Philippines. Situated in the remote regions of the Philippine Cordillera Mountain range on the
northern island of Luzon, within the Philippine archipelago, these terraces are a vivid
representation of ancient agricultural practices. While spanning a vast area historically, the
designated site comprises five clusters of exceptionally well-preserved terraces, located
across four municipalities. These terraces, crafted by the Ifugao ethnic group, who have
resided in these mountains for millennia, showcase their enduring ingenuity and deep
connection to the land.

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 Figure 2: Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordilleras

Spanish Colonial Period in the Philippines, which lasted from the 16th century until the
late 19th century, landscape architecture was heavily influenced by Spanish colonial planning
and design principles. The Spanish introduced formal gardens, plazas, and promenades as
integral components of colonial towns and cities. It is characterized by grand churches
featuring towering bell towers and graceful facades. One of the famous examples for this is
Paoay Church (see Figure 3) This architectural style emerged following Spain's arrival and
colonization of the Philippine Islands in the 16th century, accompanied by the introduction of
Catholicism, which later became the predominant religion. Marked by spacious interiors,
uncomplicated forms, and harmonious proportions, the Spanish colonial style is evident not
only in churches but also in residences, haciendas, and Mission-style structures.

Materials such as stucco, adobe, and red tile roofs are commonly used in this architectural
style, often adorned with intricate wrought iron details. In this era, landscape architecture was
characterized by several key elements. Fortifications and defensive landscapes were
constructed to protect against external threats, incorporating moats, walls, and gardens that
merged military function with aesthetic design. Spanish garden design principles, influenced
by Moorish, Islamic, and Renaissance styles, were evident in formal gardens with geometric
layouts, symmetrical plantings, and ornamental features. Water played a significant role, with
fountains, ponds, and irrigation systems integrated into landscapes for both aesthetic beauty
and practical purposes.

Figure 3: Saint Augustine Church, also known as the Paoay Church in Ilocos Norte province

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 During the American period in the Philippines, landscape architecture experienced significant
developments influenced by American colonial policies and urban planning initiatives. This era saw
the emergence of landscape architecture as a profession, influenced by the City Beautiful Movement.

The primary objectives of the City Beautiful movement in the Philippines or also known as
Burnhan Plan (see Figure 4) were to introduce modern urban design practices from America, redefine
the urban landscape, and enhance the visual appeal of urban areas. This movement sought to
implement principles of City Beautiful projects, introducing spatial configurations different from
previous urban layouts, as part of the early American colonial administration of the Philippines.
Furthermore, Daniel Burnham (see Figure 4.1) aimed to advance civic improvement by enhancing the
built environment with classic-renaissance architecture and grand planning. Achieving these
objectives relied heavily on small-scale, incremental projects supported by various organizations and
associations focused on aesthetic enhancement and outdoor art. Ultimately, the City Beautiful
movement aimed to transform cities into visually attractive and well-planned environments that
embodied the ideals of the American colonial administration and contributed to nation-building
efforts.

Figure 4: Burnham Plan

Figure 4.1: Daniel Burnham: The one who proposed Burnham Plan in Manila

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 The Modern Period of landscape architecture in the Philippines, from the post-
independence era to the present day, is characterized by blending traditional and modern
design influences. Following independence, there emerged a renewed emphasis on Filipino
cultural identity within landscape architecture, resulting in the incorporation of indigenous
elements into design concepts. Urbanization drove the demand for sustainable, community-
focused designs, leading to the integration of green infrastructure and participatory design
methods. Technological advancements, including CAD and GIS, have enhanced design
capabilities, enabling landscape architects to create more efficient and ecologically resilient
landscapes.

Additionally, landscape architects like Ildefonso “IP” Santos Jr. (see Figure 5)
embraced innovative approaches while maintaining a connection to local heritage. He is
widely recognized for his significant contributions to the field, particularly in urban planning,
environmental design, and landscape architecture. He played a crucial role in shaping the
landscape of various cities and regions in the Philippines through his innovative designs and
advocacy for sustainable development. An IP Santos creation exudes a serene harmony,
captivating observers not with flashy design maneuvers, but with well-balanced compositions
that seamlessly merge architecture and landscape. Achieving this finesse with delicate
gestures—perhaps a water feature here, a line of indigenous trees there, or even a
strategically placed sculpture— he demonstrated his prowess. Santos' background as an
architect further enriched his approach; his grasp of constructed environments endowed him
with a discerning perspective on the reciprocal relationship between landscape and
architecture, emphasizing their mutual enhancement.

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 Figure 5: Ildefonso “IP” Santos: The Father of Landscape Architecture

II.PARAMETER OF SITE ANALYSIS

Site analysis (see Figure 1) is a predesign research activity that focuses on the current
and potential conditions on and around the construction site. It is an inventory of the factors
and forces at the site, as well as how they coexist and interact. The goal of the analysis is to
provide comprehensive information about the site's assets and liabilities before beginning the
design process. Only in this manner can concepts be created that incorporate meaningful
responses to the site's external conditions.

Figure 1: Example of Site Analysis from Guide to Site Analysis - Monograph. (n.d.).
https://monograph.com/blog/guide-to-site-analysis

Analysis data can be split into two main categories: Hard and soft data. (see Figure 2)

Figure 2: Hard Data and Soft Data

A thorough site analysis will determine whether the development is financially

feasible and establish parameters for implementing the best design that responds to the
physical and environmental features of the site. There are some general categories for
Parameters of Site Selection and Analysis:
II.I Location
- It refers to the specific geographical area where the site is situated. It encompasses
factors such as geographic coordinates, nearby landmarks, proximity to urban
centers, accessibility, and overall regional context. Understanding the location is

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 fundamental as it sets the stage for evaluating other aspects of the site's suitability
and potential impact.
II.II Neighborhood Context Map
- The analysis and mapping of the nearby neighborhood should encompass
elements such as street circulation, sidewalks, street trees, parks, and other public
infrastructure. This process should result in the creation of a Neighborhood
Context Map. As part of the Site Analysis process, an initial Neighborhood
Context Map should be drafted, extending beyond the project site to illustrate its
interaction with the surrounding neighborhood.
II.III Zoning and Size
- It involves understanding local land use regulations and assessing the physical
dimensions of the site. This includes evaluating permissible land uses, building
parameters, and available space for development. This information helps ensure
compliance with regulations and informs the feasibility of proposed projects.
II.IV Legal Information
- It encompasses details such as property ownership, any restrictions or covenants
affecting land use, regulations imposed by local authorities, and future urban
development plans. This information is crucial for ensuring compliance with legal
requirements and understanding any constraints or opportunities during the site
development process.
II.V Natural Physical Features
- Physical features, also known as "landforms," refer to natural characteristics found
on the Earth's surface. Examples include mountains, deserts, islands, plains,
plateaus, canyons, valleys, rivers, oceans, glaciers, and more. Comprehending
these features aids in evaluating the environmental context, recognizing
opportunities, and guiding sustainable design choices.
II.VI Man-made Features
- Man-made features in site analysis refer to any human-created structures or
elements within the vicinity of the site. These encompass existing buildings, walls,
roads, utilities, and other constructed elements that can impact the design or
development of the site. Evaluating these features aids in understanding the
existing infrastructure and identifying both constraints and opportunities for the
project.
II.VII Circulation

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- Circulation in site analysis involves examining how visitors, pedestrians, and
traffic move around or within the site. This encompasses understanding the flow
patterns, routes, and pathways that individuals take when accessing or traversing
the site. Future traffic and road developments should also be considered.
II.VIII Utilities
- Utilities in site analysis refer to essential services such as electricity, gas, water,
sewer, and communication infrastructure. Understanding their availability,
capacity, and accessibility is crucial for site planning and development. This
analysis helps ensure the site can be efficiently connected to these services and
identifies any constraints or opportunities they may pose for the project.
II.IX Climate
- It refers to the long-term weather conditions and atmospheric patterns of a
location. It influences building design, landscaping choices, water management,
outdoor amenities, and resilience to climate change. Understanding the climate of
a site is crucial for creating sustainable, resilient environments that meet the needs
of occupants while minimizing environmental impacts.
II.X Sensory
- It involves evaluating how the environment impacts human perception through
sight, sound, and touch. It includes assessing visual aspects like views and
aesthetics, auditory elements such as noise levels, and tactile qualities like
textures. By considering these factors, designers aim to create environments that
are visually appealing, acoustically comfortable, and physically engaging for
users.
II.XI Human and Cultural
- Human and cultural factors in site analysis involve understanding the social,
cultural, and economic dynamics of the surrounding community. This includes
assessing demographics, cultural heritage, social interactions, economic activities,
and psychological well-being. By considering these factors, planners can create
environments that are sensitive to the needs and values of the community,
promoting social inclusion, cultural identity, and overall well-being.
II.XII Ecological Study
- It involves analyzing the natural environment of a site across various dimensions:
a. Earth: Assessing soil types and geological characteristics.
b. Water: Examining surface and underground water resources, including
quantity and quality.

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 c. Atmosphere: Understanding sun exposure, air quality, and climate
conditions.
d. Site Processes: Identifying sensitive areas on the site.
e. Flora and Fauna: Studying vegetation, animal life, and their
relationships.
This comprehensive analysis informs land use planning and conservation efforts,
aiming to minimize environmental impact and promote sustainability.
III.GROUND FROMS

Ground form encompasses the physical shape and contours of the land, often
referred to as topography. This includes both natural features and man-made elements found
on a site or location. Topographic maps (see Figure 1) provide a comprehensive depiction of
a specific geographical area, offering precise geographic coordinates and altitudes for both
natural and artificial elements. They visually represent the terrain's configuration, including
its mountains, valleys, and flat expanses, using contour lines in shades of brown to delineate
areas of equal elevation above sea level.

Figure 1: Topographic Map Example no. 01

This topographic map (see Figure 2) displays various contour lines, representing the
slopes of the terrain, as well as indicating differences in elevation from sea level. In the
provided illustration, the highest point, Baker Hill, stands approximately 50 meters above sea
level. Contour lines are drawn at intervals of around 10 meters, indicating the change in
elevation from sea level to each contour line. These lines serve as reference points, allowing
viewers to visualize the height of the land relative to sea level. For instance, the table
depicted on the map sits approximately 40 meters above sea level, with contour lines spaced
at intervals of 10 meters.

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Figure 2: Topographic Map Example no. 02 with contour lines that show points that are on
the same level

Contour line characteristics refer to the visual properties of contour lines on a

topographic map, which provide valuable information about the shape, elevation, and features
of the terrain. These characteristics help map readers interpret the landscape and understand
its topography. Here are some key contour line characteristics:
III.I Steep Slope
- Steep slopes are indicated by contour lines that are closely spaced together on a
topographic map. This close spacing signifies a rapid change in elevation over a
short horizontal distance, reflecting the steep incline or decline of the terrain. (see
Figure 3.1)

Figure 3.1: Steep Slope

III.II Gentle Slope

- Smoother slopes are represented by contour lines that are spaced farther apart on a
topographic map. (see Figure 3.2) This wider spacing indicates a gradual change
in elevation over a longer horizontal distance, suggesting a gentler incline or
decline in the terrain compared to steeper slopes.

Figure 3.2: Gentle Slope

III.III Rough Form
- Rough or rugged terrain is often depicted on a topographic map by irregularly
shaped contour lines. (see Figure 3.3) These contour lines may exhibit jagged or
uneven patterns, indicating the presence of cliffs, ridges, valleys, or other abrupt
changes in elevation across the landscape.

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 Figure 3.3: Rough Form
III.IV Uniform Slope
- Uniform slopes are represented by contour lines that are equally spaced apart on a
topographic map. (see Figure 3.4) This consistent spacing indicates a uniform
change in elevation over the depicted area, suggesting a steady incline or decline
in the terrain without significant variations in steepness.

Figure 3.4: Uniform Slope

Forms depicted by contour lines on a topographic map represent the three-

dimensional shape of the terrain. Contour lines connect points of equal elevation, allowing
map readers to visualize the landforms, such as ridges, valleys, hills, and depressions. (see
figure 4.1-4.4) By interpreting the arrangement, spacing, and shape of contour lines,
individuals can discern the various features and characteristics of the landscape, aiding in
navigation, planning, and understanding the geographical context of an area. Here are the
forms that depicted by contour lines:
a) Ridges
- A ridge on a topographic map is represented by contour lines that converge or "V"
downward into one side or both sides of the ridge. (see figure 4.1) This indicates
the elevated crest of a hill or mountain, with the contour lines wrapping around
the ridge and pointing downhill on either side. Ridge lines are often characterized
by closely spaced contour lines, indicating a steep slope along the sides of the
ridge. They are important features for navigation and understanding the
topography of the landscape.

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 Figure 4.1: Ridges

b.) Valleys
- Valleys on a topographic map are depicted by contour lines that curve inward
from both sides, forming a "U" shape or V-shaped pattern. (see figure 4.2) These
contour lines represent the lower elevations between adjacent ridges or hillsides,
illustrating the depression or basin-like feature of the valley. Valleys typically
exhibit contour lines spaced farther apart at higher elevations and gradually
converging towards the bottom of the valley where the elevation is lowest.

Figure 4.2: Valleys

c.) Hills
- Hills on a topographic map are typically portrayed by contour lines arranged in a
circular or oval pattern, with the lines curving downward on all sides. (see figure
4.3) This configuration indicates a rise in elevation from the surrounding terrain,
forming a rounded or dome-like shape. Contour lines surrounding a hill are spaced
at increasingly higher elevations as they move outward from the center, reflecting
the gradual slope of the hill in all directions.

Figure 4.3: Hills

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 d.) Depressions
- A depression on a topographic map is represented by contour lines forming a
closed circular or oval pattern, with the lines curving inward and downward
toward the center of the depression. (see figure 4.4) This configuration indicates a
decrease in elevation relative to the surrounding terrain, depicting a basin-like or
concave feature. The contour lines are typically spaced at decreasing elevations as
they move inward toward the lowest point of the depression.

Figure 4.4: Depression

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 REFERENCES:

I.HISTORY OF LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE IN THE PHILIPPINES

Landscape Architecture, (n.d.) https://www.prc.gov.ph/landscape-architecture#:~:text=The

%20practice%20of%20landscape%20architecture,areas%20to%20produce%20the%20most

Santos, T. U. (2014, February 28). IP Santos: Father of landscape architecture. The

Varsitarian.
https://varsitarian.net/circle/20140228/ip_santos_father_of_landscape_architecture

Alcazaren, P. G. (2010, July 15). Philippine Landscape Architecture for 2000-2010. The
Green Architect. https://joeybalgos.wordpress.com/2010/07/02/philippine-landscape-
architecture-for-2000-2010/

Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordilleras. (n.d.). UNESCO World Heritage Centre.
https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/722/

Fulgar, I. (2023, June 21). Architecture Of The Philippines, Then And Now. Architect in the
Philippines Into New Designs & Land Ventures.
https://www.ianfulgar.com/architecture/architecture-of-the-philippines-then-and-now/

Morley, I. (2016, January 1). Modern Urban Designing in the Philippines, 1898–1916.
Philippine Studies Historical & Ethnographic Viewpoints.
https://doi.org/10.1353/phs.2016.0005

II.PARAMETIER OF SITE ANALYSIS

E. (2024, March 28). Architecture Site Analysis Guide - Data Collection to Presentation.
First in Architecture. https://www.firstinarchitecture.co.uk/architecture-site-analysis-guide-

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2/?fbclid=IwAR1QCOhTDSDCiqDCF0QsXnvCUgmJyYIdH-
4SXVO7ml640bcNI0gTFCem_t8

Guide to Site Analysis - Monograph. (n.d.). https://monograph.com/blog/guide-to-site-

analysis

SITE ANALYSIS, NEIGHBORHOOD CONTEXT MAPPING. (2001, June). Retrieved April 4,

2024, from https://syakasaibuk.files.wordpress.com/2016/08/summary-site-analysis.pdf

III.GROUND FROMS

B. I. (2021, March 11). GROUND FORMS. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?

v=pGrBQA9MgUI

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