Many towns named Sta. Cruz (Spanish for Holy Cross) in the Philippines was named during the Spanish colonial period, often in honor of the Holy Cross of Jesus Christ. These towns were typically founded by Spanish missionaries or officials, who dedicated them to religious symbols significant in Catholicism. The name Sta. Cruz may have been given due to: Religious Significance – Many towns were named after Christian symbols to reflect…
Architects play a crucial role in shaping the built environment, yet many Architects and Designers in the Philippines Struggle to set the right fees. Despite the complexity of their work, long hours, and significant responsibilities, architectural fees often remain stagnant or under pressure. Here are some key reasons why architects find it difficult to increase their fees: 1. Market Perception and Value Awareness One of the primary reasons architects struggle…
Davao City has opened the first regional branch of the National Museum of the Philippines. The Davao’s New National Museum project reflects a commitment to preserving and showcasing the region’s rich cultural heritage while also highlighting opportunities for continued engagement and growth. The museum’s futuristic design, inspired by the durian fruit, symbolizes the unique identity of Davao and its deep connection to local history, nature, and innovation. A Bold and…
Solar roofs. Thoughtful window placement. Energy-efficient appliances. These are all proven methods we can use to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption, thus helping to combat the climate change crisis that is affecting communities worldwide. However, let’s not forget one simple yet highly effective solution—insulation. Quality insulation plays a vital role in our fight against the intensifying heat waves that are enveloping the globe, from the United States to…
Love has inspired countless works of art, poetry, and music throughout history, but few expressions of devotion are as grand or lasting as the architectural wonders built in honor of a loved one. As we explore some of the most breathtaking historical buildings created out of love, we can’t help but marvel at how deeply emotion has been etched into stone and structure. These buildings are more than just architectural…
Manila, Philippines – February 3, 2025 The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) proudly inaugurated National Arts Month (NAM) 2025 with a vibrant ceremony held in front of its newly adorned building in Intramuros, Manila. The event, which took place on February 3, 2025, showcased the rich tapestry of Filipino artistry and set the stage for a month-long celebration of the nation’s cultural heritage. A Festive Opening The…
In the fast-paced world of architecture, design, and environmental planning, we constantly juggle multiple projects, stakeholders, and deadlines. To navigate this complex landscape effectively, we rely on project management tools that streamline workflows, enhance collaboration, and ensure that we meet our objectives efficiently. The right tools can make a significant difference in how we manage time, communicate with teams, and track progress. Let’s explore some of the most effective project…
As architects and designers passionate about preserving cultural influences while integrating modern functionality, we find the Belandang Beach Resort designed by Ar. Marcelino H. Dospueblos, Jr. an exemplary embodiment of Spanish Mediterranean architecture in a tropical setting. Established in 1997, this 12.3-hectare resort was envisioned as a high-end beach retreat, capitalizing on its breathtaking 240-meter white sand beach, which is part of a 600-meter coastline. From the moment you approach…
Preserving our history while adapting to modern needs is a growing trend worldwide, where heritage buildings are transformed into functional spaces. Through adaptive reuse, these historical structures maintain their cultural significance while serving new purposes. On our channel and magazine, we feature some of the most remarkable adaptive reuse of heritage buildings in the Philippines that have been successfully repurposed while retaining their architectural and historical charm. Featured Heritage Buildings…
Elections in the Philippines hold significant sway over not only the political landscape but also the physical and architectural developments of the nation. The way political leaders shape urban planning, development priorities, and infrastructure projects during and after election periods can leave lasting impacts on the built environment. Here are some of the ways elections can influence Philippine architecture: 1. Infrastructure Projects and Urban Planning Elections often bring promises of…
