A Proposed Philippine Musical Center for Filipino Musicians in the Creative Music Industry
Sinagtalang Hugpungan is a vibrant fusion of tradition and innovation, where Filipino music thrives. “Sinagtala” symbolizes brilliance, and “hugpungan” a space of oneness, illuminated by the talent and creativity of Filipino musicians. The revitalized Folk Arts Theater becomes more than a venue; it’s a cultural sanctuary that nurtures collaboration, preserves heritage, and inspires future generations on both local and global stages.
The design aims to adaptively reuse and rehabilitate the heritage structure into a dynamic, multi-functional music space for Filipino musicians. By incorporating sustainable design strategies, the project enhances accessibility and usability while honoring the building’s historical value. Aligned with SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, it envisions a safe, inclusive, and accessible public space that nurtures creativity and uplifts local talent, celebrating the richness of Filipino music. Enhancing the functionality of the Folk Arts Theater is also a key objective, allowing it to better serve diverse musical practices.
The integrated musical center preserves the Folk Arts Theater’s original structural system, featuring eight reinforced concrete columns that support the cantilevered roof. This cast-in-place concrete framework allows for expansive open areas, while the axonometric view highlights the structural arrangement, with the cantilevered design enhancing both acoustics and spatial movement.
N I G H T P E R S P E C T I V E
Our facade design strategy takes advantage of the existing fog and spot lights in the front garden to help breathe new life into the heritage building designed by Architect Leandro Locsin. By using artificial lighting to highlight its textures, materials, and surrounding landscape, the design aims to visually emphasize and celebrate the architectural beauty of the structure.
The heritage building is enclosed to enhance acoustics, reducing external noise and improving sound quality for rehearsals, performances, and recordings. Fixed windows bring in natural light while maintaining sound insulation, combining comfort and energy efficiency with respect for the structure’s historic character.
MUSIC GARDEN
ACOUSTIC SHED
MUSIC EVENTS HALL BLEACHERS
The old theater was revitalized into a music events hall through the integration of splayed ceilings and splayed walls. These architectural modifications were strategically designed to enhance the distribution of sound waves across the entire space, ensuring improved acoustics and a more immersive auditory experience, particularly for the audience. The transformation preserves the theater’s original character while adapting it for contemporary musical performances.
Themain lobby of the Philippine Musical Center was redesigned and enhanced to serve as a welcoming, aesthetically pleasing, and highly functional entrance space. Improvements focused on optimizing circulation, comfort, and visual appeal, creating a more inviting atmosphere for both performers and visitors.
The reception desk features an earthythemed accent wall designed to complement the overall architectural style of Leandro Locsin’s Brutalist approach. Natural textures and warm tones were carefully selected to soften the raw concrete elements, creating a balanced contrast that highlights the structure’s bold geometry while maintaining a grounded and welcoming atmosphere.
A Proposed Residential Loft House
FRONT VIEW
The design explores a harmonious blend of concrete and wood to achieve a raw, natural aesthetic that complements its surroundings. It is thoughtfully crafted for a modest married couple with three children, reflecting their simple and humble lifestyle through warm, honest materials and a grounded architectural approach.
A Proposed UE - Caloocan Chapel
TRIQUETA
The concept of this chapel is “Trinity” symbolizing the Christian belief in the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. This concept is reflected through the chapel’s architectural form, layout, and symbolism. The design incorporates three distinct yet interconnected elements that emphasize harmony, balance, and spiritual unity. By using Triqueta forms, symbolic geometry, and spatial division, the chapel embodies the essence of the Trinity as a central guiding principle, creating a sacred space that is both meaningful and spiritually grounded.
The chapel design embodies the “Trinity” through its symmetrical three-part layout, central aisle and two side seating areas, and the presence of three prominent vertical columns that direct focus to the altar and cross, symbolizing unity in three.
Aligned with green architecture, the use of natural materials like wood for flooring, ceiling, and pews creates a warm, organic atmosphere. Clerestory windows and strategic lighting allow for abundant natural daylight reducing energy use and enhancing the spiritual experience. This blend of symbolism and sustainability results in a sacred space that is both meaningful and environmentally conscious.
F
L O O R P L A
O N S I T E
VIEW FROM CARPORT
BACKYARD WITH BASKETBALL HALF COURT
DIRTY KITCHEN AND GARDEN
The Living Area
features an earthy theme, using natural tones, wood textures, and indoor plants to create a warm and grounded atmosphere. The design intention was to make the area feel bright, breezy, and spacious, inviting light and air to flow freely throughout the space.
The use of jalousie windows enhances natural ventilation, allowing consistent airflow while maintaining privacy and style. Combined with light-colored finishes, cozy seating, and soft natural lighting, the space promotes comfort and relaxation while embracing the beauty of tropical living.
DINING AREA
BREAKFAST TABLE
The Master’s Bedroom uses warm, earthy tones and simple materials to create a calm and cozy atmosphere. The lime-washed walls give a soft, natural texture that helps control humidity and makes the room feel more relaxed. By using similar colors on the walls, ceiling, and furniture, the space looks clean, organized, and spacious. The wood accents add warmth and a natural feel, making the room more inviting. Overall, the design aims to create a restful and airy space that feels connected to nature.
