4

Contents Commercial and

Retail Design Issue

Architect
Ian Fulgar

Whatever
Happened to
the Man of
Tomorrow
Architect Ian Fulgar’s love for technology and art inching
in every nook and detail, where every job assignment is an
exercise in invention and pursuit of perfection

Cover Story 56
words by John Ravino Duanan

Architect Mark Madrid

Finding Joy
in Building
People’s
Homes
Mild mannered and articulate Mark Madrid, Architect
and BERDE Professional retelling his simple joys in building
homes for family as if it is his.

32 Spotlight
words by Estan Cabigas
April - June 2017
What’s inside

The Search
for an
Interior
Designer
A good and professional interior designer does not only
plan and design a space, but builds solid and lasting
relationships with her clients. Within are some things to
keep in mind when dealing with interior designers

Ideas + Inspirations 48
words by IDr. Peaches de Guzman-Grey

Architect Edward
Cabrera of
Costruzione Drago

New
Wings
Architect Cabrera puts on a fresh wind in his sail
as his design firm EAC Arkitektura takes on a new
venture with Costruzione Drago

10 Special Feature
words by Myla Sambas
6

Contents

The Art
of the
Staycation
For John Ravino, staycations are becoming a
pretty viable option. If you get some free time,
go on TripAdvisor, pick a solid hotel, and book a
room for a night or two.

Trends + Stories 78
words by John Ravino B. Duanan

UAP
CONEX
2017
This year, having 140+ exhibitors, UAP CONEX is a
perfect ground to promote technologies, equipment
and materials organization not just for Architects but
for other professions, guests, and aspiring architects
and students, as well.

Industry News 1
86
words by Ar. Tina Lopez-Bautista

More+
Shifting The International Symposium
Architects Balance on Disaster Risk Reduction

89 Industry News 2 90 Industry News 3

words by Ar. Johanna Macasieb, uap words by Isaias Panganiban Jr.

Sigvard Selections Unveils Retail Mobility + Construction

Space at LRI Design Plaza 1st Asean Architects Congress

92 Trends + Stories 94 Trends +

words by Lean Panganiban Stories
 April - June 2017
Contact + Team

Contacts The Team

Fulgar Architects Ar. Mark Madrid Publisher / Editor-in-Chief
Address Address Aldine Aileen O. Aldaba
2P Lee Gardens Commercial Center cor. Lee St., l307 Pansipit St. Ayala Alabang Village
Shaw Blvd., Mandaluyong, 1552 Metro Manila Muntinlupa City & 8862 Sampaloc St. Marketing Manager
Landline San Antonio Village Makati City Kristine B. Lim
(02) 661 0168 Landline
Email (02) 519 5476 Marketing Executive
info@fulgardev.com Chris G. Vallejera

Costruzione Drago Contributing Writers

Creative Solutions and Innovations Address Estan Cabigas
(CSI) Philippines Dragon Street corner Bangkila Marikina City Lean Karl Panganiban
Address Mobile Idr. Peaches De Guzman - Grey
14 Miller Street, Quezon City (02) 905 808 0317 John Ravino Duanan
Landline Email Myla Sambas
(02) 352 5485 Costruzione Drago
Photographers-at-Large
Estan Cabigas
OEM Systems Group Decon Corp
Address Address
Circulation
Laguna International Industrial Park (LIIP) Block 5 12th Floor JRCV Inc Bldg. #1 Tomas Morato Ave,
Alpha Stream Marketing
Lot 7 CNB Street 4024 Mamplasan, Biñan, Laguna cor. Roces Avenue, Quezon City
Landline Landline
Web Developer
(049) 539 0740 (02) 372-6031
Renan Q. Lingan

Portal East
La Casa Deco
Address
Address
805 State Center Bldg.,333 Juan Luna St.,
Unit 12C Belvedere Tower, San Miguel Avenue,
Binondo Manila
Ortigas Center Pasig City
Landline
Landline
(02) 242 2721
(02) 983 8885 to 87
Unit D #90 Baler Street,
Email
West Avenue, Quezon City 1105
Rapid Forming Corporation info@lacasadeco.com
Trunkline: (632) 416-1380
Address Advertising: (632) 358-0653
2nd Floor Vazquez Madrigal Plaza Fax: (632) 415-7102
Kawayan Cove
51 Annapolis St., Greenhills San Juan, PH advertise@dandcmagazine.com
Address
Landline info@dandcmagazine.com
Ground Flr, Alegria Bldg., 2229 Chino Roces
(02) 726 3533 dandcmagazine.com
Avenue, Makati City
Landline
(02) 845 1266
Sealbond Chemicals Industries Inc.
All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may
Address
be reproduced without written permission from the
A-2 Araneta St. Cor. Gen. Natividad St.
Sparklight Marketing publisher. Opinions expressed in this magazine is
Bgy. Ibayo, Tipas Taguig City
Address solely of the writer and not necessarily approved
Landline
2312 Leveriza St., Pasay City by BMC.
(02) 881 8813
Landline
(02) 274 9397 D+C Magazine is published quarterly by Blished
Mag Co. (BMC).
10

Special Feature words

Myla Sambas
images
Estan Cabigas + Costruzione Drago

New
Wings
If a bird’s forelimbs are its key to flight, what could make
a mere man fly?

Architect Edward Cabrera has found his “living

wings” perfectly in shape which will determine his might
to take off from his old grounds, swoop down on new
opportunities, and eventually hover on greater success.

Architect Cabrera puts on a fresh wind in his sail

as his design firm EAC Arkitektura takes on a
new venture with Costruzione Drago, a general
contractor company, which he now paddles
with businessman and old-time friend, Monir
Momani, and the young Korean marketing
specialist, Jiwon “Jake” Yang. The three felt now
is the prime moment they have been all waiting
for to come out of their individual frames and
blend their gifts. The vision to go against the
common notions of design and provide unique
and quality construction services led to them to
close ranks and start the business. When asked
what the philosophy and potential of the new
team are, Cabrera speaks candidly, “No limits
kami, and malaki ang potential namin. (We have no
limits, and we have great potential).”
April - June 2017
Special Feature
When Cabrera rebranded the name of the EAC Design
and Builders to EAC Arkitektura in 2014, he was not expectant
of any big shifts or pinned on the methodical accomplishments
of the business. He and his group started in a confined living
room, and in one snap, they found themselves working at
a bigger office. Clients were coming and their team was
growing. The boom of the firm’s clients depended on his
team’s designing knacks, but he felt that their competence
and expertise might not be all that they needed to serve their
clients at their best.“Masasabi ko, pwede akong magcompete sa
ibang architects. Yung pagbuo ng concept, wala akong problema.
Pero ang kulang ko kasi is yung sa management, yung sa business
side (I can say that I can compete with other architects. I don’t
have problems with creating concepts but I feel that I lack
management and business skills),” he admits.
He knew that he needed to binge on a new strategy to
make the company perform competitively and be able to sprout
its own and separate construction team composed of engineers,
contractors, and technical construction workers in order to
produce quality result and avoid confusion and disorientation
at work. Clearly a man of vision, he knew what he needed and
sought for it.
Seek for a Dragon
Chasing his stars, Cabrera once stumbled upon his Chinese
zodiac horoscope for the year which, quite oddly, told him
to “seek for a dragon” which would bring him the luck and
prosperity he was searching for. Fate came to play when he
crossed paths with long-time friend Monir Momani who then
had Jiwon Yang with him. Casual conversation was flowing
when he took notice of Yong’s dragon tattoo on his forearm,
his strange horoscope flashing before him. He shared the
information with the duo and by pure coincidence; Momani
too, had a dragon tattoo on his arm. Talk then shifted from
pleasantries to business, a subject Momani is completely versed
with.
The presence of dragons did not end with their tattoos.
Momani owned a commercial building located at Dragon Street
in Marikina City which signified that their meeting was not
by mere chance and quick to their feet, they pooled all their
resources and Costruzione Drago was born.
Costruzione Drago, an Italian phrase for “dragon building
or construction”, was conceived in the last week of December
2016 and formally entered the business scene first week of
January 2017. Relatively fresh in the competitive world of
construction, they now carry the task of designing and building
numerous and various projects, four of which they landed on
the first week of operations.
Interestingly, their new venture seems to live up to what a
person born in the year of the Dragon is predicted to be—gifted
with innate courage, enthusiastic, and not afraid of challenges.
They take risks and open up themselves to the uncommon
perspectives and are willing to challenge the traditional.
Cabrera’s EAC Arkitektura supports Costruzione Drago and
provides its clients with designs that his team walks through
with heads held high. In every project, they assure their clients
that they will create unique and unparalleled designs coming
from their pool of young, imaginative, and brilliant architects.
The inexperienced and unseasoned have room in the firm as
Cabrera believes in the rawness and sparkle of their ideas, those
that people would not normally see and buy from the markets.
next
page
12
From left to right
Monir Momani Vice President and COO, Jiwon Yang Marketing Manager,
Larry Diaz, Jr. Associate Architect, Edward Cabrera CEO and Principal Architect,
Lawrenz Delen Junior Architect, Aris Guese Junior Architect, and
Aira Marielle Rodriguez Human Resource Manager
From residential houses and housing projects in Quezon
City to multi-split rest houses with overlooking purviews in
Antipolo and medium-rise condominiums in Parañaque City,
their clients come to them with great anticipation of being
different from the rest. They welcome the unhinged, the deviant,
and the unorthodox that seem to be the Achilles heel of most
architects. “Kaya kami na-hire para solusyunan yung hindi pwede.
Kung sasabihin namin na ‘hindi ito pwede,’ ano ang pinagkaiba namin
sa iba? Pag-aaralan namin ang gusto ng client and we will find
ways to make it possible (The reason we get hired is to make
a solution for what seems to be impossible. If we say, “This
couldn’t work,” what makes us different from others? We will
study what the client wants and we will find ways to make it
possible),” Cabrera says.
At present, they are rendering the design of a privately-
owned house whose swimming pool they put inside. Cabrera
explains, “Kapag sinabi ng client na, ‘ito ang gusto ko,’ maliban dun
sa gusto nya, ibibigay ko pa yung hindi pa nya na-imagine o naisip.
Hindi lang kami gumagawa dahil lang sa pera. Ginagawa namin ito
with passion, kasi kung pera-pera lang, ibang negosyo na lang. Kapag
nag-design kami, sinisimulan pa lang namin yung plano, iniisip
namin, ‘Bahay namin ito.’ (When the client says, “This is what
I want,” aside from what he wants, I will give him what he
has not imagined or thought yet. We do not do something just
because of money. We do it with passion. If it’s just because of
money, we could have resorted to other businesses. But when
we design, when we are just at the conceptualization stage, we
always think, “This is our house.”).
April - June 2017
Special Feature
Breathing wings
Cabrera reunited with Momani at such a time when he needed
to toss up the business. Monir Momani is a young businessman
whose entrepreneurial blood has been running in veins since
he was 13 years old. Being involved in various businesses such
as real estate, build and sell, transportation, among others,
Momani is close enough to making his version of a blue chip.
He is interested in profiting metiers, but he believed in Cabrera
beyond his skills that he placed his hands on Costruzione
Drago. “When I thought of building a company, the first
person who came to mind was Architect Cabrera. He is the best
architect that I know and he is really close to me. And I wouldn’t
go into a business without quality people (like him),” he says.
While Cabrera’s eyes are on design, Momani focuses
on what he does best: closing business deals. He presents the
technical proposal and review to prospective clients and works
hard in being the mouthpiece of the business. Once a project is
up for operations, Momani does not sit down and wait for the
plant to grow. Instead, he finds more ways of sustaining the
company with long term opportunities. Momani says, “We are
not only in it for the construction. We also do “build and sell”
that will involve other investors. Right now, we already have
our real estate and technology departments. If (Cabrera) wants
to build an architectural or construction company only, he can
do it by himself. But I’m in the business seeing a long term view,
and I incorporated all my businesses to Costruzione Drago
so we can make it bigger.” Seeing a growing company makes
Momani fervent in his plans to further the services they offer
and expand their workforce in the coming years.
To make the equation complete, they tied up with Jiwon
“Jake” Yang, the CEO of Hala Entertainment, a group of creators
based in the Philippines that offers digital media services
with different types of content. From Korea, Yang went to the
Philippines to study English but he eventually found himself
thriving for a bigger dream. For a year and a half, he weathered
the long stays at home while thinking what he would do and
who he would be in the future. He had no friends nearby until
he met Momani. “Everything started with friendship. When
they started their business (Costruzione Drago), I started mine,”
Yang recalls. Yang, driven by his passion and skills, does all the
marketing efforts to enable the company to reach out to as many
locations, projects, and clients as it can through social media,
its flagship medium. He is now contemplating the launch
of the company’s website after creating a buzz on Facebook,
Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube.
After Momani gets the deal and Cabrera starts to sketch
from the client’s vision, Yang moves in to bring the project into
life and closer to the market. “Actually, (Momani and Cabrera)
are really great, but what I’m trying to do is to make them be
known internationally (and) open to the whole world’s market.
Filipinos are very kind and talented, and they can have clients in
Korea and other countries. (Also), when I make a promotional
video for the company, I use my personality. Not that we call
famous actors or actresses, but we make our product famous
using our creativity. And I hire the best photographers,
videographers, and marketers in my team. We have our own
rules in doing something, and others can’t copy us. We are very
unique,” Yang exclaims. Yang’s team uses a different form of
storytelling that overthrows the common marketing platforms
yet turns up to the core thoughts and emotions of the viewers.
His powerful tool helps the company to slowly flourish and
eventually, go head to head with other construction firms in
terms for market familiarity and reception in time.
Finally, Cabrera found the right team to hit the ground
running and start flying.
The game plan
When you add the important elements together—Cabrera’s
inimitable vision, Momani’s gutsy judgments and decisions,
and Yang’s myriad inspirations—they make an exquisite
alliance. In few months or years, they are in high hopes that
their goals will be concretized, measured, and multiplied. By
then, they will have expanded their departments and team
members; built more high-rise structures and owned residential
townhouses after Costruzione Drago Realty and Costruzione
Drago Design have been established; and designed for
next
international structures and been recognized in other countries. page
14

The overall architectural design of this 186-square meter

modern tropic residence in Marikina City with 3 bedrooms
and 2 bathrooms creates a serene environment for a family of
four. Clerestory windows are used to promote natural lighting
and illuminate the great spots inside the house.

“Yes, we are young, but we are not really scared

of the threats or anything. We have a solution for
everything. We only know it is the best time for us
right now,” Momani believes. Learning from the
trails taken by the old architects, engineers, and
businessmen they know who act as their mentors
becomes the lamp that lights up their path.

Cabrera also knows it is not only a pipe

dream that one day, he will see his young architects
set down and create their own firms, helping
the coming generation of budding designers to
become unplugged and unmarried from what is
not aesthetically challenging and improving the
human dreams and lives. Architect Larry Diaz Jr.,
Cabrera’s associate, affirms this kind of character,
“Isa sa na-adapt ko sa kanya (Cabrera) is ‘yung maging
competitive. In order for you to give your best kasi,
may tatlong bagay kang dapat pagkatiwalaan: yung
gawa mo, yung sarili mo, at ang Diyos (One thing
I have adapted from him (Cabrera) is to become
competitive. In order for you to give your best,
there are three things you need to trust: your work,
yourself, and God).”

Costruzione Drago has started its race to

success and the team anticipates the hurdles,
messes, or delays ahead in their path. But Yang
speaks with hope, “We see the end; we have our
vision. We do not know when we can finish our
race but the important thing is we are running.
We are not scared of what the next course is, how
it looks like, is it rocky or not; we’re not scared of
that. The important thing is we are running now.”
The three men seem to be seeking the dragon for
now, but they know that time will come that they
will stop from seeking, and start “becoming that
formidable dragon” in their industry. D+C
April - June 2017
Special Feature
16

Deriving the inspiration from the current flow in a circuit board, this two-storey residence in
Cainta, Rizal embraces a futuristic aesthetic while channelling a modern zen. Its wave-like
edges become an accent breaking the monotony of just a box. Inside, it features a big garden
with lanai adjacent to the kitchen and ample spaces at the basement suited for the storage
requirements of its young couple-owner.
April - June 2017
Special Feature
18

This two-storey residence in Marikina City took inspiration from its adventurous and enthusias-
tic owner. The free-form design of the building exterior creates an array of shapes and chromes
and highlights the modernistic use of wood and precast concrete. Inside, it has 3 bedrooms, 3
bathrooms, and a maid’s quarter.
April - June 2017
Special Feature

Clinching into a truly modern yet organic feels, this lake view retirement home for a couple is designed
with concrete and wood as accent color. It follows the natural contour of the terrain and grants a stunning
view of Tagaytay’s sunrise and sunset.
20

This two-storey, multi-split level prime property is located at the edge of a hill giving a full view
of the Manila skyline. It was built on 1000-square meters of land, a part of which is devoted
to agricultural farming. It features a modern tropic style with 3-tone chromatic fusion which
adapts to its surrounding and gives its owner a relaxing feel and rural comfort.
April - June 2017
Special Feature

Located in Bulacan, this six-unit apartment with penthouse is inspired by the highly
urbanized lifestyle in the United Arab Emirates. The concretes complimenting the contem-
porary-styled exteriors make it beyond an ordinary residential space and grant the trendy
vision of the owner who works in Dubai.

Located in the mountainous terrain of Antipolo,

this resort spa is a modern tropic example using
earth-toned materials to imbibe an organic style of
design. The use of curtain walls maximizes the views
of a relaxing atmosphere outside and welcomes the
warmth of the sun.
22

This two-storey residence in the heart of Quezon City

has all the making of a couple’s dream house. It comes
with 5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, and a swimming pool
that encompasses the interiors. Its façade brings in
light to the interiors and great views from the outside
through its large openings. It also features a bar and a
party place for social gatherings. Anyone who comes
in will also be awed by a showroom which holds the
owners’ car collection.
April - June 2017
Special Feature
24

This 50-room hotel was once a school building converted to raise the value of the overlook-
ing view of Antipolo’s mountain ranges and Manila cityscape. The uppermost floor has been
transformed into a fully-glassed function hall to cater different types of events. The simplicity of
its design accented in brown makes it a modern tropical hotel and resort and attracts visitors
looking for a nearby haven in quietude.
April - June 2017
Special Feature

This four-storey building in Paco, Manila shows a strong red accent as focal of its modern
design. It has two commercial spaces on the ground level and twelve apartment units
serving for residential purposes.
26

One of the EAC + Arkitektura’s modern minimalist visions takes on the conception of a
family residence design by using mostly wood and tile claddings. This 174-square meter
dwelling in Alabang houses 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms.
April - June 2017
Special Feature

This two-storey bachelor’s pad in Cabuyao, Laguna is designed with a modern minimalist ap-
proach. Its playful horizontal and vertical lines devise a complex frame of the house as a whole.
This 236-square meter has 3 bedrooms, two of which are reserved for the owner’s guests.

This three-storey commercial building is a business

venture in Cagayan de Oro designed radically as
a result of deconstructivism. Its façade is fully
covered in glass and the whole building is enclosed
with perforated aluminium composite panels that
act as sun shading. Its edges and strong red make
a statement and show a prismatic view and brilliant
complexity
28

This two-storey bachelor’s pad with an open plan interior and furnished with a pool motivates
the healthy active lifestyle of the owner. The use and arrangement of concrete, glass, and tiles
in design also makes this modern minimalist residence in Pangasinan perfect for sun buffering
and created a juxtaposed view from afar. Inside, it has 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms.
April - June 2017
Special Feature
32

Spotlight words
Estan Cabigas
images
Estan Cabigas

Architect Mark Madrid

Finding Joy
in Building
People’s Homes
“I get satisfaction in building houses for other people,
designing it as if I will be the one to live in it.” Thus spoke
the mild mannered and articulate Mark Madrid, Archi-
tect and BERDE Professional at his office loft in Makati
City. Be it a newly constructed house or a renovated one
from a few decades ago, there’s that element of being
satisfyingly livable: bright with large windows, airy with
good ventilation, and surprisingly cozy.
April - June 2017
Spotlight
34
T
here are no architects in the
family. Mark’s mother was a
housewife and his father an
accountant. But it was when
he was in high school that he resolved to
be an Architect someday. “My mom has a
knack for designing and renovating. Her
background is Fine Arts and wanted to take
Interior Design but that didn’t push through
after she got married. She started fixing up
our house, then my grandmother renovated
her house and my mom took charge of that
as well. She always brought me to these
activities that’s why I tended to have a liking
for building and designing and I already
sort of knew the direction I want to take.”
Mark Madrid, Architect and BERDE Professional
Starting as an Architect
After graduating from the University of Santo Tomas in 1994,
and passing the board exams the following year, he worked
in the family business until 1997. After that, he continued
his practice on his own, doing both design and construction.
When the Asian financial crisis hit, projects were hard to
come by and he realised that his knowledge was limited
to mostly houses and low rise commercial structures. He
wanted to learn how to do bigger projects.
In 2000, instead of getting a Master’s degree, Mark
decided on getting practical training, something that
will enable him to learn more than just building houses.
He applied and got accepted with the firm of Architect
Pablo Antonio Jr., getting assigned at the Asian Hospital
& Medical Center which was being built that time. It was
here where he learned first hand the formal processes and
systems in a corporate setting.
After Asian hospital, Mark wanted to go back
and restart his own practice but when new interesting
projects were given to him, it was hard to pass off: the FEU
renovation and new buildings within the Manila campus,
semiconductor projects, BPO buildings and hospitals that
were in the proposal stage then and also the Makati Medical
Center. Starting as an assistant to the senior architect, he
gained the confidence of Architect Antonio that he rose
from Junior to Senior Architect, eventually shadowing
the architect himself and sometimes, representing him in
meetings. In 2008, Mark left the firm and focused on his
own practice.
BERDE Professional
Architect Mark took the Philippine Green Building
Council BERDE professional course in 2012 and the
assessor’s course in 2013. But as far as his projects wanting
certification, he laments that there’s none. But he adds
that the certification courses greatly enhanced what he
already knew on “building green,” like proper orientation,
natural ventilation, natural light and selection of materials,
and energy-saving equipment. There are other aspects of
building green, like materials reuse, rain-water collection,
solar power generation, among others. He says, “you
consciously try to apply it wherever practical, because if it’s
not, then it just becomes an added expense.”
April - June 2017
Spotlight
Design philosophy
“Function first. I have to make sure that the
plan works, the littlest of wasted space. Of
course, at the back of my head, I already
know what the prefered theme or design
the client wants: modern, contemporary, or
traditional. So once I’m happy with the plan,
it’s easier to dress it up.”
The architect’s process usually involves
coming up first with a rough sketch, massing,
the basic plan, then 3D. He tries to come
up with 2 or 3 versions of the basic design
but, he says, 80-90%, even with one plan, it
already works for the client, and the final
design just needs to be tweaked for the
interior, detailing, orientation, etc.
Designing and Renovating houses
Although Mark can do a variety of structures,
it’s in designing and renovating houses
where he finds more satisfaction. He is open
to ideas or styles, depending on the client. It’s
more of the personalization, the greater level
of attention, personalizing everything for
them. He admits that there are easy clients
and those that aren’t sure of what they want,
which can get challenging when clients
keep on changing their minds and the work
becomes tedious. But he says that for cases
like the latter, it’s more of being attentive to
their needs, showing that you are there to
guide them.
On the other hand, “renovations are
hard, you have to deal with what’s there,
what’s inside. Every time you take out a
wall, you see a problem. That’s why the cost
of renovation per square meter is generally
more than if you were to build from scratch.
If you build from scratch, you have total
control. If you try to retrofit, it can sometimes
be difficult.”
Talking about his house: “When I
first saw it, it had good enough balance and
right there I already sort of knew what the
approach should be. I already had a theme in
mind. It was a typical 80s looking house, so
I wanted to have something with a modern
look. The look of the house reminded me
more of Japanese contemporary houses.
The basic form remained but it was more a
matter of tweaking the roof fascia, making
it thinner, enlarging the windows, from
arched to rectangular, adding texture like
that sandstone wall we put in to add enough
accent and add more glass where possible.”
There are also renovations where
the architect admits is really difficult. “If
there’s no balance, or if the form is not really
nice, it’s limiting. From there, only minimal
improvements can be done. The form of the
house dictates what is possible or what can
be done to make it proportionate, there’s a
certain balance that you want to achieve, a
curb appeal.”
Baguio old house
An old Baguio house located at a quiet
neighborhood near Wright Park and
previously owned by nuns of the Little
Flower Convent was restored by Architect
Mark in 1994. The structure is probably from
the 1930s or 40s. The 2000 square meter, three
story structure is built on a slope with the
driveway and main entrance level. But it was
in such a sad state when it was acquired. The
portion starting from the kitchen down tilted
precariously because of the earthquake that
hit the city in 1990. A gaping hole filled with
stagnant water was found below the building,
while its wooden posts were decayed. It was
easier to demolish than to renovate but Mark
decided otherwise, “let’s save it.”
The ground was filled and stabilized,
the tilted portion raised and cement posts
were added. Seeping water and age has
discolored and moistened the original
parquet flooring of the ground floor, which,
upon sanding, they discovered to have a
light and dark pattern. But because of the
condition, they decided to remove the wood,
treat it and put it back again randomly.
The underground is now a spacious
driver’s quarters while adjacent to it, a
smaller lounge area with a view. It also
doubles as a guest room when family
members and friends visit. Although the
tilting was addressed, it’s only the kitchen
now that a subtle slope is noticed. A section
was added to the house, now a smaller
living room built with a fireplace as the
original three story fireplace, one for each
level is useless due to clogged vents. A small
divider connects a bigger living room at one
side, a smaller closed kitchen beside it and a
spacious dining hall. Beveled glass windows
open to a nice veranda with a great view of
pine trees and beyond. The staircase was
expanded a little while most of the master’s
bedroom has been retained. A spiral staircase
leads to a three room attic with its original
wallpaper still intact.
It’s a lovely restored house that
benefited well from a good renovation plan
and execution, hallmarks of what Architect
Mark Madrid can provide whether its
designing or renovating for a client. D+C
projects
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36

2
 April - June 2017
Spotlight

3 4

1
Cavernous living and dining space. Main door and
vestibule at right
2
Veranda at the back and opens to a grass covered lot
3
Dining area for formal occasions
4
Wooden table designed by Architect Mark, matching
the chair design
5
Façade. Open garage (small portion seen) at left

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page
38

1 2

3
April - June 2017
Spotlight

1
Living space
2
Fitted kitchen
3
Living and dining areas connected to the second level
with this modern staircase
4
The lot area of House B is fan like with the main en-
trance/smaller side facing the road. Pool at the back, a
veranda at the second floor and a lounge area below it.
5
A den for the family at the second level that is between
the private rooms

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page
40

1 2

3
April - June 2017
Spotlight

1
Furnished veranda acts as a second
living space for informal or private
occasions
2
Enclosed vestibule. Openings at
the sides of the main door provide
ventilation
3
Tall windows make the living room
bright
4
Dining room opens to the veranda at
the back
5
First level is a verandah that opens to a
garden at the back

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page
42

1 2

3
April - June 2017
Spotlight

1
Two level grand staircase leads to the private
rooms at the second level. This area also the
vestibule.
2
Main entrance of the house features original
piedra china, a custom designed metal railing, and
weathered old bricks
3
Corridor with lounge sofa at the second level
4
Living space
5
Veranda opens to a garden at the back of the
house

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page
44

1 2

3
April - June 2017
Spotlight

1
Façade. It’s an old 80s house that the architect
remodeled. Large windows were added to the front
that makes the interior brighter compared to the
smaller windows of the original. The front used to
be a ramp that gives vehicle access from the road.
Now, it has been raised above the road and a side
ramp at the right side of the house.
2
Sandstone slab makes for an interesting accent
wall. This portion used to be a bathroom but is
now the stairs landing which gives a bigger view of
the outside. Below is an opening for ventilation.
3
Dining area has a higher ceiling compared to living
room. Partition between spaces used to be arched
columns but to modernize it, Architect Mark made
it rectangular.
4
Fitted kitchen used to be smaller but has expand-
ed by reclaiming the maids quarters.
5
Spacious living space with white walls and big
windows.

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page
46

2
April - June 2017
Spotlight

3 4

5 6

1
Smaller living room with a functional fireplace. A small
divider separates this area from the main living room.
2
Spacious and bright dining area. It opens to the
veranda outside.
3
Expanded living space. There used to be a massive col-
umn in the middle but during renovation was removed.
4
Spiral staircase leading to the attic
5
The master’s bedroom
6
Veranda and façade of the back portion. It’s a three level
house plus an attic. The original chimney at the left.

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48

Ideas +
Inspiration words
IDr. Peaches de Guzman-Grey
illustrations
Calando Santos

THE SEARCH
FOR AN
INTERIOR
DESIGNER
A good and professional interior designer does not only
plan and design a space, but builds solid and lasting
relationships with her clients.

Here are some things to keep in mind when dealing with

interior designers:
April - June 2017
Ideas + Inspiration

Never call her an

interior decorator
Yes! There is a big difference! Interior decorators can help you with
improving the look of your space; they can style and decorate it. In-
terior designers, on the other hand, have a degree and a professional
license that they worked hard for. This means that interior designers
have the capacity to produce signed and sealed plans. They carefully
study your space – providing optimal planning solutions, and sourc-
ing the best materials to be used.
50

Never ask them to

design for free
Because interior designers invested time, effort, and money on education please do not
ever ask for free drawings, more so free designs. Their schooling didn’t come for free, after
all. Interior designers spend time reviewing and studying your needs for your space. They
research on the appropriate materials and best possible approach to be able to come up with
an outstanding solution for you.
April - June 2017
Ideas + Inspiration

Never ask for

lower professional fees
Interior designers have a standard professional fee to
guide them on how to best charge their clients. This
protects the interior design industry. The best interior
designers qualify because of their experience, their knowl-
edge, and capabilities, not by having lower rates.
52

Respect their
time table
Interior designers invest time to study and
prepare the drawings, and material boards
for you. Never ask them to submit these
in a short span of time. The most ideal is
to give them at least two weeks. That gives
them enough time to carefully plan the
space and source out the materials for you.
April - June 2017
Ideas + Inspiration

Let them know

your budget
By being vocal about your budget, interior design-
ers can specify the most cost efficient materials. They
can even help you source out the best contractors,
and suppliers that fit your budget. As an added
value, interior designs can also get you discounts
and special rates.

In a nutshell, before you hire your interior designer, make sure

that she is capable enough in terms of her job knowledge. Also
make sure that she has the right attitude towards the job. A
licensed professional knows her responsibilities towards the cli-
ent; the architect; the manufacturers, contractors, and suppliers;
colleagues and subordinates; and the general populace—and
faithfully fulfills these responsibilities. D+C
56

Cover Story words

John Ravino Duanan
images
Fulgar Architects

WHATEVER
HAPPENED TO
THE MAN OF
TOMORROW?

Architect Ian Fulgar

and the Fusion of Art,
Architecture, and
Technology
April - June 2017
Cover Story

When you enter the Fulgar Architects meeting room,

you’ll find it striking that it doesn’t look like an archi-
tecture office. Instead of models and photographs
of buildings and facades, the room is accented with
large canvasses. Paintings of various dimensions lean
against the wall, its subjects reveling in an oasis of
color and geometry. The room is as much a studio of
imagination as it is a hub for concepts and calcula-
tion. It’s an odd sort of cognitive dissonance. How-
ever, this irony of art and technology became almost
definitive as I interviewed Fulgar Architects’ founder,
Arch. John Ian Lee Fulgar.
58

A
rch. Ian considers himself an architect, an artist, and
a technologist. These titles are hard-won—they’re
not just simple labels. Upon graduating from the
University of the Philippines and passing the bar,
Arch. Ian reaped experience in Singapore, working
with LEED and Greenmark mega-projects. He re-
turned to the Philippines with enough resolve and
inspiration to start his own architecture firm, Fulgar Architects.

A love for technology flaring in his heart since childhood,

Arch Ian is certain that programming can be both technical
and artistic. Much like the English language, technology can
both extrapolate data while maintaining a sense of grace and
elegance. Arch. Ian was impressed one piece of tech in particular.
Introducing: parametric BIM (building information modeling),
the future of architecture. BIM is the digital representation of the
physical and functional characteristics of a facility. You can input
data and algorithms to simulate the construction and mainte-
nance of a building. Arch. Ian places confidence in this intelligent
Birthright
3D-model based process will equip architecture, engineering,
Arch. Ian thinks it’s high and time local architects tread new ground
and construction professionals with startling new insights.
in defining new Filipino architecture. While he places respect where
Boasting classical training in art, Arch. Ian is currently it is due, he believes that the age of aping the bahay-kubo should be
taking graduate studies in Fine Arts, expanding his avenues and reconsidered. He attempts to distill the objective of the bahay-kubo,
using the knowledge to bolster his architecture. Taking inspira- “They’re trying to address tropical design, but if you take apart those
tion from Arturo Luz, among other artists, he traces similarities initial concepts and consider Filipino lifestyle and culture, you might
between art and architecture, wryly concluding that the two just think up of architectural canons of your own to define what Filipi-
have quite a lot in common. “When you create art, it’s an internal no architecture could be.” True to his artistic inclinations, he put forth
discussion with you as an architect. You question forms and the possible reinvention of the pitched roofs or the many gradients of
spaces. What is an artistic form? A meaningful space?” This con- shadow and shade Filipino architecture is meant to possess.
stant questioning will catalyze the architectural mind and allow
it to reach heights past the cloud cover of economical limitations. Despite his international studies, Arch. Ian sees foreign inspi-
ration to be a hindrance at times. “We’re very colonially inspired,”
In a country where budget and the bottom-line reign as
he said, “to the point that we mimic a lot.” Foreign architectural
king and queen, Arch. Ian works as a revolutionary to dethrone
techniques may work for their country of origin, but not for the
them. He left a thriving career in Singapore, grappling a personal
Philippines’ wind patterns, climate idiosyncrasies, and temperature
existential crisis. “Why am I here? ” he asked himself, “I should
fluctuations. Arch. Ian suggested the revival of larger ceiling volumes,
be at home.” So he returned, starting up Fulgar Architects and
water management, transoms, and espejo: simple and elegant tech-
taking in projects that he found interesting. For Arch. Ian, every
niques. “These are things we forgot because we’re following a certain
project is a passion project—every job assignment is an exercise
standard.”
in invention and a pursuit of perfection.

He noticed an invisible wall in the architecture field, prevent-

ing architects and designers from reaching artistic heights. “We’re
not in the frontlines of building components, thereby we adapt to
what’s available in the market,” he says. He trusts that the current and
coming generations of architects will have a little bit more imagination
and design flexibility to formulate better and more creative solutions.
Progress relies on reinvention, and while it’s not wrong to stand on
the shoulders of greats, we should eventually step off and plant our
feet on the ground ourselves. “We just need to get a more adventurous
client to go with that,” he laughs.
April - June 2017
Cover Story

But where should we start? Arch. Ian thinks the Philippines should have its own “place of iden-
tity”. Paris has its Eiffel Tower, a wrought iron lattice tower honoring the French revolution and demon-
strating Parisian innovation. Singapore has its Merlion, the stone sea monster decorating the Marina Bay,
a symbol of once-humble beginnings and current global impact. The Philippines has no such symbol.
Arch. Ian even considers that it needn’t be a building. “It should have to be a sense of arrival.” Here is a
man who understands the significance of symbol, and the power they hold to rally and unite peoples. “It
should be an icon, an emblem on stationery and books.” Furthermore, he possesses a sincere trust in the
ability of our local architects to discover this “sense of arrival” if they’re given the opportunity to break
out of our influences. “We need a building that’s truly ours. Something that can rival the Guggenheim or
the Burj Khalifa. Something that can garner the world’s approval.”

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60

The Red Sterling

The generous open layout invites
natural ventilation all year long. A
unique roof line character effectively
for harvesting torrential rainwater for
emergency water supply, fire fighting,
and disaster. Made to reflect on the
tropical climate, the design observes
solar orientation fostering the wash
of light as well as to catch the running
shade.

Location: Laguna, Philippines

Type: Commercial Industrial
April - June 2017
Cover Story

Up, Up, and Away

Arch. Ian’s appreciation for technology is possibly unrivalled by any other
architect in the local scene. “I want to be established for using technology
as an art tool to come up with new designs and levels of expression for ar-
chitecture.” He does not want to go down in history as unoriginal—current
Crossover
trends in architecture rely too much on mimicry. Arch. Ian challenges his
One of Arch. Ian’s artistic heroes is Arturo Luz. Much like Luz, Arch. Ian’s
team of architects and designers to come up with their own of interpreting.
design philosophy stems from careful projection and strong intent. There
“Through that exercise—much like art making—you will stumble on your
is a deliberation and measurement in a Luz, a “strong thinking process”
own style and identity that can rival some international designs.” Speaking
unique to the era. Arch. Ian confesses he has an endearment towards
like an experienced art teacher, he strips down this thought exercise to its
planned things, towards products and objects that required contempla-
barest essentials. “If the form is clear and the intention is present, it needn’t
tion rather than fortune and inspiration. “When I see a Luz, I can see
be complex. There is an elegance in simplicity.”
the thought process behind it. There’s a sensing of grounding with the
composition and choice of color. It’s not instant.” Arch. Ian is arguably quite
Arch. Ian’s garrulous passion for art and architecture attracts pro-
similar. He is a man of reservation and bouts of passion recall the interplay
fessionals much like him. Arch. Ian boasts of his stable of employees. These
of artistry and calculation in Luz’s iconic works.
are people who don’t just view architecture as just another job, just another
paycheck. These are people who still care, who still wish to make a differ-
On the architecture front, Arch. Ian is a firm proponent of Nation-
ence, who have some bright idea that may challenge preconceived notions.
al Artist Leandro Locsin. He admires how the late master could create
If any hopefuls wish to join Arch. Ian’s team, he shares that they should be
something so simple and yet so grand and beautiful without relying on
open-minded and humble enough to learn. Passion is key—the passion to
cosmetics. Across international waters, Arch. Ian admires the subtleties
try putting things together.
of Frank Lloyd Wright. A visionary whose designs attempted to co-exist
with the surrounding environment, Frank Lloyd Wright has undoubtedly
Arch. Ian’s requirements never strayed into technique and pres-
influenced Arch. Ian’s move towards sustainable design.
tige—he focused on forward-thought and flexibility. “They must have a
fascination with technology. At the very least, they should understand the
principles of managing and transforming data into functional creations.”
Here, Arch. Ian forges his second amalgam: architecture and technology.
Programming and coding, to him, are essentially permutations of architec-
ture and vice versa. “In IT, they call system information design ‘information
architecture’ and in architecture, there’s a process called ‘architectural
programming’ where we try to program spaces.”

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62
Brightford Industrial
A play on color lines brings forth the
spice needed in establishing identities
to the entryways as well as creating
visual interest to the facade. The design
employed an experimental take on
thermal winds, which leverages on the
use of dark color themed envelope in
an attempt to induce airflow with the
exchange of cooler air on temperature
differences with the shaded pockets.
Location: Laguna, Philippines
Type: Commercial Offices
A Single Bound
An LEED accredited professional, Arch. Ian still believes that sustainabil-
ity should be essential to the design. “It’s about lowering your carbon
footprint. It should be as basic as plumbing,” he shared. The long-term
costs of running a building becomes much more expensive than its initial
construction costs, so “we have to be systems-thinking.” He desires that
both architect and client should always take into consideration the design’s
environmental impact—from the creation of a project, how it runs through
its life cycle, until its natural end.
When pressed to specify strategies to minimize a building’s impact,
his answer was wonderfully obvious. “Trees,” he said. “Look higher. The
environment is just recycling inside.” The key to kickstarting this natural
self-correction is plants. “Bring back plants. Bring back open spaces. There
should be more effort in creating green areas.” Arch. Ian recalls the halcyon
days of young Manila’s city planning, when the city was slated to rival the
French boulevards. “The doctrine was simple: city beautiful.”
Fulgar Architects recently joined a design competition wherein they
had to reconceptualize the Supreme Court. Residing in one of UP Manila’s
buildings, the Supreme Court is a sentinel of truth and virtue, standing
tall and stalwart with Greco-Roman pillars and mullions. The challenge
posed to the Fulgar Architects was to humble this paragon of justice. No
longer should the Supreme Court be looked up to as gods. “They wanted
us to come up with a design where they could come down to and be with
the people.” Arch. Ian and his team approached the challenge with an un-
yielding inquisitiveness and love for improvement. His casual passion and
honesty are some of the most endearing aspects of his character. “It was a
fun competition.” he smiled, “We learned a lot.”
The Golden Age
Fulgar’s prediction for his future is as measured and realistic as they come,
but upon talking with him, I can’t help but feel that he’s simply being true
to hinself. “I wish to do what I’m good at. In my heart, I’m a tinker. I just
want to create stuff. Whether there’s a client or not, I’d probably be busy
with a new idea. Exhausting myself while doing something new.” His wish
is to share what he learns, to inspire the next generations of architects as a
teacher, reminding young firebrands of their fundamentals and where they
came from.
Arch. Ian Fulgar has a wealth of experience and technological
knowledge both practical and esoteric, but he still shows unrelenting
wonder at the novel, interesting, and important. According to him, one of
the most significant inventions of the 20th century was the Internet. “There
are no more borders. Conversations are instant. Information is archived. All
minds coming together to share. That’s really amazing, isn’t it?” He views
the once-coined “Information Superhighway” as an empowering force not
just in the architectural discipline, but also in advancing civilization. Tech-
nology should always be used to help people, to facilitate collaboration,
cooperation—ideas that define our society and make it great.
Arch. Ian Fulgar is a man of paradoxes. He’s a skilled architect, a
formally trained artist, and a canny proponent of technology. While one
may desire a convenient label that can combine all three into one, it seems
this fusion could diminish the magnitude each of the title holds. Arch. Ian
is not one-third architect, one-third artist, and one-third technologist—he
is all of these things, all at the same time. An architectural doctrine may be
used in a sculpture. The subject’s dimensions in an oil painting could be
repurposed in a design feature. A technological innovation can influence
the direction of art creation or blueprint drafting. Arch. Ian deftly navigates
labels and definitions, coming out the other side like a man of tomorrow
taking a stroll through the present day. D+C
April - June 2017
Cover Story

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64

Building Industry Center

A distinct form having arrays of solar
fins guarding the building envelope from
excessive tropical sun exposure, the
proposed project sits at the South Science
and Technology Park of the University
of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City
maximized for vegetation to promote
bio-diversity with water feature on the
west side as a way to provide for cooler air
exchange.

Location: Quezon City, Philippines

Type: Research Facility
April - June 2017
Cover Story

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66

CGS Residences
Imagine a building that breathes.
Designed with multiple vertical air shafts
to take advantage of naturally induced air
circulations, light tropical breeze constantly
weaves through the apartment units,
corridors and common areas. Each unit
provides good opportunities for views and
light as well as access to balcony spaces.

Location: Mandaue City, Philippines

Type: Apartment Building
April - June 2017
Cover Story

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68

ICDC Concept
ICDC Concept elevates tropical design of
Philippine office and commercial buildings
by introducing an innovative surface
envelope called ventilation graters that
scrapes off moving air to create distributed
breezes within the open corridors and
pathways as well as provide particle
filtration systems to promote for cleaner air.
April - June 2017
Cover Story

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70

Mars Ravelo Komik Museum

Inspired by the versatility of paper, the structures are
fragmented into several core units each comprising
unique characteristics of folded planes and flipping
sheets of insulated structural panels. With a cool
climate and luscious landscape, the complex is
designed to cultivate for a variety of daytime and
nighttime activities.

Location: Tagaytay City, Philippines

Type: Museum Complex
April - June 2017
Cover Story

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72

One East Commercial Center

One Ease Commercial Center is a well-researched
architectural product formulated to increase the real
property investment value of an idle land by developing a
rental business center for retail, service, and food shops
catering to the community demographics of Marikina City
April - June 2017
Cover Story

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 74

Thymotecture
Thymotecture is the accumulation
of spirited technologies enabling
developments in architecture for
empathic skyscrapers of tomorrow,
capable of monitoring and measuring
anthropogenic and environmental
interference using techno-organic
surface appliances as building materials.

Location: Manila Philippines

Type: High-rise Building

Empathic Panels

Essentially the idea is about buildings exchanging data and

communicating with each other around the globe to measure
and react to urban information. Building parts can then start
to act as appliances communicating with other building
parts in as much as one whole building interacting with its
surrounding site or even with an entire city and then reacting
to these simulations with built-in actuators from filtration to
alternative energy.
April - June 2017
Cover Story
78

Trends
+ Stories words
John Ravino B. Duanan
images
Cocoon Boutique Hotel + Golden Phoenix Hotel Manila

The Art Ahh, vacations. There’s nothing quite like

of the
getting off work, packing your bags, and
driving to the airport to fly to your next
adventure. Vacations are an important
reminder to take care of yourself, that

Staycation
you’re human—not just a cog in the
machine. And as a young professional, you
finally have the cash to spend to conquer
Cambodia, explore Estonia, and wander
around Wales.

Golden Phoenix Hotel Manila

Facade
April - June 2017
Trends+ Stories
But let’s get down to the brass tacks. Vacations can be ex-
pensive. Just calculating the expenses for the fare, the reservation,
the food, the leisure and entertainment—preparing for a vacation
is always an exercise on number-crunching and sacrifice. If you
dial down your budget, kiss some of your convenience and com-
fort goodbye. Shore up your itinerary with fun and variety and
you’ll probably be selling some of your clothes just to get back
home. It’s simple economics.
However, these past few years have seen the rise of
vacations spent at home. With a fast-paced world nipping at ev-
eryone’s heels, people have to find rest and relaxation anywhere
possible. Enter the staycation. Simply defined as “a vacation
spent at home,” the staycation is the answer for enterprising
individuals who don’t have a lot of cash, but desperately need a
bit of spoiling.
Recently, staycations are starting to be redefined. Hotel
staycations are the name of the game these days. As a novice
staycationer, you have quite a lot of options in this urban jungle
of Manila. But to truly enjoy a genuine staycation experience, you
have to bust out a fraction of your vacation budget and book a
hotel.
Cocoon Boutique Hotel
The most luxurious of hotels can be pretty pricey, but you don’t
need to break the bank just to pamper yourself. Boutique hotels
are the answer. Boutique hotels are non-chain hotels—indie
hotels, if you will—that cater to staycationers who don’t have a
fortune but still have a bit of cash to spend. Boutique hotels also
boast of features that are unique to them. Some boutique hotels
have an in-house herb garden, and others offer nature walks. If
you are looking for great and memorable experience without
burning a hole in your bank account, boutique hotels are for you.
To back up these claims, I stayed at a boutique hotel that
offered a full staycation experience: Cocoon Boutique Hotel.
Suffice to say (and pun nothwithstanding) the experience was
transformative. A four-star hotel by its own right, the Cocoon
Boutique Hotel differs from your typical hotel experience with its
focus on resource sustainability. As such, it’s aesthetics differs—
more Mother Nature than glitz and grandeur. The hotel lobby
is a feast for the senses with its warm wooden paneling, sleek
Filipino design, and the fragrant lavender and peppermint smells
wafting in the air. It was an invitation beckoning me to kick off
my boots and come inside.
Once you enter, the receptionists treat you with grace and
respect. Drinks are mandatory. A refreshing glass of ice-cold cal-
amansi juice definitely hits the spot after an afternoon of walking
around in the sun. It wasn’t a short wait because they cleared the
reservation in less than 2 minutes. The room was supposedly
vacated and ready so they waived the 2 PM check-in time and
assisted me with my bags to the 5th floor.
Entering the deluxe suite of Cocoon Boutique Hotel was
like stepping into a homely yet uniquely modern log cabin. More
wooden paneling here, both on the wall and floors. The key to a
successful hotel staycation is having all of the creature comforts
of home and hearth within easy reach. A comfy bed, excellent
WiFi, great food, and lots of free time. I can happily say I expe-
rienced all these during my stay at the Cocoon Boutique Hotel.
A flat-screen TV on the far wall to while away the time; room
service for when I got hungry; fast and free Internet to share hot
Instagram pics of my room; and the plushest, comfiest bed for
impromptu naps. The toilet and bath are nothing to sneeze at
with a deep soak bathtub separate from the rain shower.
The pinnacle of human relaxation is probably the massage.
Staycationers can avail for the hotels’ in-house masseurs. For my
stay at the Cocoon Boutique Hotel, I opted to try their in-house
foot spa. The feeling of getting your feet massaged after a long
week of commuting and standing has no equal. If you are look-
ing for a wider range of entertainment, Cocoon Boutique Hotel
is near the Tomas Morato restaurant strip. That’s what clicks for
a lot of people when it came to staycations: the indulgence. For
the working man or woman, arranging trips to far flung places
constitutes more work. During hotel staycations, the objective is
clear from the get-go: treat yoself.
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80

Cocoon Boutique Hotel

(top-left counter clockwise )
Ballroom, Pool, & Lobby
April - June 2017
Trends+ Stories

Cocoon Boutique Hotel

(top-left counter clockwise )
Suite, Bathroom, & Suite’s Living Area

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page
82

Golden Phoenix Hotel Manila

(top-left counter clockwise )
Executive Suite Bedroom, Deluxe Twin, & Executive Suite’s Dining Area
April - June 2017
Trends+ Stories
Golden Phoenix Hotel Manila
A fabulous four-starred hotel, the Golden Phoenix Hotel Manila
is the real McCoy. Four or five star hotels are definitely heavier
on the pocket, but their price ranges can vary depending on
location and a myriad of other factors. Of course, booking a
starred hotel is a much easier strain than planning your next
trip abroad. In return, you can enjoy classy service, excellent
amenities, fantastic food, and probably the finest sleeping ex-
perience you can enjoy. Since most starred hotels attract expats
and foreign dignitaries, they’re designed to cater to a certain
class of society. If you want to try different hotel chains, expect
a consistent and exceptional quality of service each and every
time.
As soon as you enter, the Golden Phoenix Hotel Manila
almost immediately awed with it massive and dazzling marble
lobby. A sparkling chandelier graces the ceiling, and warm
golden walls surround the receiving area. Right from the
onset, one is struck with a sensation of glamor, and the sharply
dressed receptionists and bellmen ensure that that sensation
only amplifies during your stay.
In the Golden Phoenix Hotel Manila, luxury bleeds from
every tile, sheet, and surface. Along with the relaxation essen-
tials of TV, minibar, electric kettle, and WiFi, a Golden Phoenix
hotel also boasts of an iPod dock for you to listen to your
vacation playlist. The room blends neutral colors to seemingly
induce maximum relaxation. The Golden Phoenix Hotel has
the select distinction of offering custom designed beds and mat-
tresses to correct postural alignment for a healthy night’s sleep.
Fall into the chiropractor-approved bed and feel it massage and
caress every aching square inch. Snuggle in the fine Italian-in-
spired Frette sheet covers and the elegant down-filled duvet.
Never get out of bed again.
Staycations might be an escape from the stress and strain
of daily life, but self improvement and exercise should always
be part of your routine. The Golden Phoenix Hotel Manila
understands the physical needs and whims of its guests. Before
taking my well-deserved nap, I visited their high tech and fully
decked out fitness center to get my grind on. Pumping iron
and running digital laps on the treadmill have never been so
rewarding knowing that you can finish your session with a dip next
page
in the pool, concluding with a hot shower and the embrace of
your chiropractic bed.
84

The true beauty of staycations is in

their simplicity. You pick a hotel, check in,
and just spend some time. Geared towards
the number crunchers, the costs are relatively
less extravagant than going to a destination
vacation. And while it can’t be considered
technically ‘adventurous,’ a staycation can be
just as fulfilling or memorable than a flight
abroad or a road trip to the beach. Staycations
are becoming a pretty viable option. If you
get some free time, go on TripAdvisor, pick
a solid hotel, and book a room for a night or
two. Wherever you decide, no one can argue
that there are few sensations greater than
falling into your hotel bed and breathing in
the clean sheets.

Breathe in. Breathe out. Relax.

You’ve arrived. D+C

Golden Phoenix Hotel Manila
(top) Executive Suite’s Living Area
(bottom) Gym
86

Industry
News 1 words
Ar. Tina Lopez-Bautista

UAP CONEX
2017
Year after year, United
Architects of the
Philippines holds
Convention Exhibits
(CONEX) which we also
call Construction Expo.
This is in conjunction
with UAP’s annual
National Convention.
Conexis currently
the Philippines’
Premier building
and construction
exhibition. It is our aim
to unite all construction
industry sectors, and
to demonstrate state
of the art products.
Having 140+ exhibitors,
it is a perfect ground to
promote technologies,
equipment and materials
organization not just
for Architects but for
other professions,
guests, and aspiring
architects and students,
as well. CONEX today
is the industry’s most
comprehensive national
event.
April - June 2017
Industry News

This year’s Team Conex 2017 are composed of the

following Architects

National President
Ar. Guillermo Hisancha,fuap

Executive Director for Convention,

Assemblies and Exhibits
Ar.AntonioValdez, fuap

Conex Director,
Ar. Michael Pena,fuap

Advisers,
Ar. Carmelo Casas,fuap
Ar. Albert Yu, fuap

Chairman for Program and Finance, As early as July last year, planning and Finally, afterrigorous meetings and planning, last
Ar. AmerigodelaPaz, fuap preparations have already started. A lot of activities November 17, 2016, the signing of MOA (Memorandum
have been conducted prior to the actual exhibition of Agreement) took place between UAP’s National
Members,
Ar. Maria Cristina Bautista, uap which is scheduled on April 27, 28 & 29, 2017 at the Convention 43rd, UAP Conex 2017 and SMX Convention
Ar. Grace Anne Ronquillo, uap SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia, Manila. Center. This was spearheaded by our UAP National
President, Ar. Guillermo Hisancha and Secretary
Chairman for Marketing,
Conex 2017 was formally launched last General, Ar. Renato Heray. SMX Convention Center was
Ar. Armin Pamintuan, fuap
September 19, 2016 at United Architects of the represented by Ms. MylaVenegas, National Sales Manager.
Members: Philippines Headquarters, Scout Rallos St., Quezon To witness the signing, representatives from Natcon43 were
Ar. Mark Soriquez, uap City.This was attended by exhibitors which are also present headed by Ar. Willie Chua &Exec. Director
Ar. RomyDavid, uap
composed of leading companies in the construction for C.A.E.,Ar. Tony Valdez.and Team Conex 2017 which
Ar. Randy Banzon, fuap
materials industry. As early as one (1) month, sixty was headed by Ar. Michael Pena. This was held at The
Chairman for Creative/Image Development, percent (60%) of the booths has already been sold. Tower Restaurant. located at the Ground Floor of UAP
Ar. Manny Lozano,uap Headquarters in Scout Rallos St. Quezon City.
Gracing the event were distinguished
Chairman for Operations
Ar. Allan Garcia, fuap guestsfrom United Architects of the Philippines
National Executive Officersheaded by the
Members: National Executive Vice-President Ar. Nina
Ar.FranklinBautista, uap
Baylon-Arce. with National Treasurer, Ar. Pam
Ar. Pedro Fetalvero, uap
Ar. Julian Confessor, fuap Amador, Director for Convention, Assemblies and
Exhibit, Ar. Antonio Valdez, NatCon43rd Director,
next
Ar.WillieChua, and Marketing Head of UAP page
Natcon43rd, Ar. Dante Aguirre.
88
Standing from the left to right
CONEX 2017 Team Members Ar. Armando D.G. Pamintuan, Ar. Franklin E. Bautista, Ar. Grace Anne R. Tamesis,
Ar. Maria Cristina L. Bautista, Ar. Randy B. Banzon, Ar. Julian C. Confesor, Ar. Mark Louie M. Soriquez,

Industry
Ar. Romeo C. David, Ar. Ramon N. Lozano III, Ar. Pedro Fetalvero

Seated from left to right

Chairman of Committee on Ways and Means, Ar. Dante T. Aguirre, NATCON 43 Director Ar. Willie Y. Chua,

News 1
Secretary General Ar. Renato A. Heray, SMX National Sales Manager Ms. Myla B. Venegas, National President
Ar. Guillermo H. Hisancha, Executive Director Conventions, Assemblies and Exhibits Ar. Antonio A. Valdez,
CONEX 2017 Director Ar. Michael T. Peña and Chairman Committee on Operations Ar. Allan V. Garcia

continued from
previous page

As early as July last year, planning and
preparations have already started. A lot of activities
have been conducted prior to the actual exhibition
which is scheduled on April 27, 28 & 29, 2017 at the
SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia, Manila.
Our ever supportive UAP National President,
Ar. Guillermo Hisanchaalso delivered an inspiring
messageand expressed his heartfelt gratitude to
all the exhibitors/sponsorsfor always supporting
UAP,through the years.

Conex 2017 was formally launched last
September 19, 2016 at United Architects of the
Philippines Headquarters, Scout Rallos St., Quezon
City.This was attended by exhibitors which are
composed of leading companies in the construction
materials industry. As early as one (1) month, sixty
percent (60%) of the booths has already been sold.
Gracing the event were distinguished
guestsfrom United Architects of the Philippines
National Executive Officersheaded by the
National Executive Vice-President Ar. Nina
Baylon-Arce. with National Treasurer, Ar. Pam
Amador, Director for Convention, Assemblies and
Exhibit, Ar. Antonio Valdez, NatCon43rd Director,
Ar.WillieChua, and Marketing Head of UAP
Natcon43rd, Ar. Dante Aguirre.
Conex 2017 Exhibitor’s Forum
Nearly two (2) months before the UAP
Construction Expo 2017, UAP Conexorganized
a forum for the exhibitors and other companies
involved in the exhibit. This is to discuss further
and exchange their views for a proper and smooth
flow while the exhibit is on-going. About 100
exhibitors attended the symposiumwhere yours
truly and Ar. Grace Anne Ronquillo served as the
MC (masters of ceremonies). Ar. Tony Valdez gave
the welcome remarks and Ar. Michael Pena gave a
short message.
SMX Event Manager, Ms.StefGuindontalked
about SMX Convention Center’s house rules
whileGodspeed, the events booth contractor with
their representatives’.Ms. Imelda Ainza, Mr. Dennis
Rejano and Mr. Denver Serquiaexplained their rules,
policies and the inclusions of their set-up.
Ar. Allan Garcia, Chairman of Conex 2017
Operations Committee headed the discussion. He
answered the queries/questions of the exhibitors
together with Ms. Stef of SMX and Mr. Denver
of Godspeed andother panel members, Ar. Tony
Valdez, Ar. Michael Pena and Ar. Jun Fetalvero.
After the forum, the exhibitors, panels and
guests enjoyed a sumptuous meal prepared by
UAP Conex 2017 for them at the 6th floor. It was
another successful event of UAP Conex 2017.
We are thankful for the guidance and blessings
of our God Almighty and thankful for the hard
work of the team and also for the cooperation of
our exhibitors. Without all of this, any event or
endeavor will never be a success. Good luck to all
and see you at SMX MOA for the United Architects
of the Philippines – CONEX (Construction Expo)
2017! D+C
April - June 2017
Industry News
Industry
News 2
Shifting The
Architect’s
Balance
The 43rd National Convention for Architects is
all set to take place on April 27-29, 2017 at the SMX
Convention Center, Pasay City. This is a yearly
gathering organized by the United Architects of
the Philippines and is for the purpose of discussing
relevant issues, creating new policies and forging
relationships among others.
This year’s convention theme was chosen to
help equip the Architect to respond to the radical
changes in the environment and society and is
aptly titled “SHIFT: Shaking Up the Architecture
Practice”. This being a time of fast technology,
trends can take unexpected turns and society
expects nothing less than excellence. The Architect
is urged to keep up with the times and take the
creative lead.
Several speakers have been carefully selected
to share their thoughts and experiences. These talks
are expected to inspire and possibly even displace
the listeners from their comfort zone. To further
words
Ar. Johanna Macasieb, uap
enhance the theme, there will be tours to various
structures where visitors will be privy to areas that
are normally off limits.
This is also a venue for the specialized groups
to convene such as the Architects in the Academe
and members of the College of Fellows. This year,
the first Asean Summit for Architects and the first
Government Architects Forum will also take place.
The public may take part of this event
by visiting the Convention Exhibits (CONEX)
otherwise known as Construction Expo which
runs throughout the convention dates. With over
130 exhibitors, it promises an interesting collection
of products and new technology for building
construction.
The United Architects of the Philippines is the
duly accredited IAPOA (Integrated and Accredited
Professional Organization of Architects). D+C
90
Industry
News 3
Rise High
International Symposium on Disaster
Risk Reduction Heritage Sites
Highlights Preventive Maintenance
“Be prepared.” Philvolcs Director,
Dr. Renato Solidum warns on the
potential hazards of 7.2 magnitude
earthquake on heritage structures
based on historical records and past
seismic events.
Dr. Jaime Laya, Chairman of Escuela
Taller de Filipinas Foundation, Inc.
opens the international symposium.
words
Isaias Panganiban Jr.
Escuela Taller hosted a successful three-day,
international symposium entitled Disaster Risk
Reduction through Preventive Maintenance: The West
Valley Fault and Philippine- Spanish Built Heritage last
February 27 – March 1, 2017 at the Ayuntamiento in
Intramuros, Manila.
Foreign experts Toshikazu Hanazato (MIE
University, Japan), Joaquín García Álvarez (Fundación
Santa María la Real del Patrimonio Histórico,
Spain), Jose T. Regalado (University of Santo
Tomas, Philippines), Sisira Kumara (Asian Disaster
Preparedness Center, Thailand), Muhammad Lulu
(Indonesia) and Alex Ya-Ning Yen (Center for Cultural
Sites Rehabilitation and Development, Taiwan) flew
to Manila to share technical inputs on how heritage
structures can be best protected from natural disasters
including earthquakes and other natural calamities.
Their gathering focused on Preventive Maintenance as
a viable conservation approach.
April - June 2017
Industry News

His Excellency Luis Calvo, Ambassador Spanish experts from the Spanish Ministry of Education, Culture
of the Embassy of Spain with officials of and Sports, Angel de Souza Seibane of the Department of Fine
Escuela Taller, the Embassy of Spain and Arts and Cultural Properties and Concha Cirujano of the Instituto
Instituto Cervantes del Patrimonio Cultural de España (IPCE)

Sec. Leoncio Evasco Jr. who was also for-

mer Maribojoc mayor delivers his keynote
speech which centered on the urgency and
importance of heritage conservation and
disaster risk mitigation citing as example
the massive destruction heritage churches
in Bohol out of the 2013 earthquake.

With the widely anticipated earthquake,
coined the “big one”, in mind, the symposium
discussed and called for disaster risk reduction
of heritage sites. These built structures and
heritage buildings are the most vulnerable and
at risk because of the fact that they have been
subjected to the ravages of time and past natural
disasters and even man-made risks.
The West Valley Fault traverses several
cities in Metro Manila including Quezon
City, Marikina, Pasig, Makati, Taguig and
Muntinlupa and as well as nearby provinces
including Bulacan, Rizal, Cavite, and Laguna.
The last major earthquake generated by this fault
was in 1658 or 359 years ago and experts believe
that it is ripe for another seismic movement.
Citing the recent earthquake in Surigao
and Davao, OIC Executive Director Carmen
Bettina Bulaong said “considering recent
earthquakes, the urgency to protect our
built heritage is indeed incontrovertible and
to make our heritage structures resilient
to calamities should be of primacy to all
concerned institutions and government bodies
engaged in conservation.”
“To safeguard our heritage structures
and cultural properties urgent actions must be
organized and promptly implemented. With
the wealth of technical expertise and important
issues that will be raised in this symposium,
we hope that the different stakeholders,
organizations from both public and private
sectors come together and consolidate efforts
to put good preventive maintenance practices
into the forefront as an approach towards the
aversion of potential damages or destruction of
these important cultural assets” Bulaong said.
Sec. Leoncio Evasco, Jr. of the Office of
the Cabinet Secretary opens the event with a
keynote speech alongside UP President Danilo
Concepcion. Sec. Evasco who is himself from
Maribojoc, Bohol and a long time advocate of
heritage preservation, personally witnessed the
devastation of the 2013 earthquake that hit the
Visayan region.
The conference is jointly organized by
Escuela Taller de Filipinas Foundation Inc.
(ETFFI) and the University of the Philippines,
College of Architecture (UPCA) in collaboration
with the Manila Observatory and the
Archdiocese of Manila. Support has come from
the HISPANEX Program of the Spanish Ministry
of Education, Culture and Sports. D+C
92
Trends
+ Stories
Sigvard Selections
unveils its bigger and
improved retail space
at LRI Design Plaza
To enhance clients’ home furnishing
and design shopping experience,
Sigvard ensures that the new store
layout is quite compelling, with
the aisles, floor and displays that
allow customers to have adequate
personal space when browsing their
products
The Classic collection draws
inspiration from the golden past and
reinvents them for the present age.
words
Lean Panganiban
The luxurious world of
home design inside the
newly-renovated and bigger
lifestyle-concept store
featuring customized fine
furniture and furnishings
From telling good narratives, putting head-
turning window displays and creating immersive
shopping experiences, today’s home decor stores
create a resonating customer journey, and Sigvard
Selections is leading the way.
Since its opening in 2015, Sigvard has been
providing customized furniture creations that
combine high-quality construction and exquisite
design. The lifestyle-concept store has been known
for their meticulously selected home accessories,
elegant pieces of furniture, and awe-inspiring
artworks that suits the discerning preferences of
modern home owners.
April - June 2017
Trends+ Stories
With the new and improved retail
space comes new selections of home
furnishings, ranging from tables, chairs,
beds, cabinets, lamps, eye-catching wall
accents and statement pieces that are
approachable, affordable and high quality.
Most of the home pieces are design for comfort
and serenity, with deeper appreciation of heritage.
They follow the inspiration of balance and harmony,
characterized by beautiful styling and solid con-
struction.
The upscale interior design of the store remains
true to the brand’s philosophy of assured qual-
ity and personalized exclusivity. Their products
have been arranged and displayed that make it
easy for customers to envision how these items
can be setup in their own home.
This year, design-savvy home owners and
designers alike can check out Sigvard’s wide selection
of trendy home furnishing products and fine furniture
in their new and improved retail space located at the
LRI Design Plaza in Makati City.
Bigger, better, bolder
The newly-renovated store manifests Sigvard’s
thoughtful considerations to designs, details and
materials used on every home furnishing, making it
effortless for clients to discover the wonder of home
furnishing and designing amidst the sophisticated
shopping vibe.
The owner partnered with one of the country’s
most sought-after interior designers IDr Jigs Adefuin
to meticulously curate the showroom, select the right
items to help their clients achieve the look that they
want for their homes, creatively present the products
beyond the traditional display design, and update
the selection that speak of individual aesthetics and
lifestyles.
Adhering to personalized approach, the
furniture pieces in the collections are customized
based on the clients’ decorating styles. Jigs
handpicked the eye-catching statement pieces and
accessories from his travels abroad.
Designing from the heart
With a masters degree in Interior and Living Design
from Domus Academy in Milan, Italy, Adefuin is
known for his versatility in creating beautifully-
decorated homes. From traditional to contemporary
design, he merges technique and knowledge with his
deep understanding and respect for culture to create
customized, high-quality home furnishing.
Adefuin approaches his designs with great care
and caution, serving the demand for creativity and
skill, excellence and perfection. Defying the “one size
fits all” adage, he tailors each piece with the most
important element in his design – the people who will
be using them. He creates functional and aesthetic
pieces that suit the clients’ preference.
At Sigvard Selections, home furnishing is more
than just pieces to fill the home; they are a lifestyle in
itself. D+C
 Trends
+ Stories Images by
Ar. Edu Cortez