FLOOR PLAN

FLOOR PLAN

FLOOR PLAN

ELEVATION

SECTION

INTERIOR

EXTERIOR

ADAPTIVE CHANGES GROUND FLOOR PLAN

Originally designed for garage space (garaje) and an area to store provisions (bodega), the

basement (silong) is traditionally above grade and never permanently lived in due to the annual

inundation during the monsoon months. Now located at a higher elevation, the revised plan

converts area into living spaces. Ground floor level is still raised about 2 feet above grade to

protect from water runoff.

Originally, windows on the ground floor are normally smaller in opening compared to those

located in upper living spaces. This, along with very thick high thermal mass walls, keep the

interior cooler, ideal for storage. The original window sizes were retained during reconstruction.

Awnings (media agua) are located above window openings. Revised layout exhibits an open plan

promoting better air flow and good cross ventilation.

The grand foyer (entrada principal) still retains its location and original function.

SECOND FLOOR PLAN

The main living area. The original plan called for recessed sections to allow daylight to reach deep

into the interior. Revised open plan compensates for the removal of the recesses allowing for

more functional T&Bs to be added. Original house had only 1 functional T&B. Note that all T&Bs are located along exterior walls and are naturally ventilated. Main dining and kitchen are

relocated. Dirty kitchen added and located in annex.

Original window openings maintained. Awning wraps around entire second floor building

perimeter.

Interior partitions have punched wooden panels along top section to allow cross ventilation even

with doors closed. High ceiling maintained.

ADAPTIVE CHANGES THIRD FLOOR PLAN

Original bedrooms are combined and T&B added. Balcony wraps around for 360 view. Operable

windows all around for increased ventilation. Deep overhanging roof provides solar and rain

protection.

WINDOWS

Traditional windows with floor to ceiling arrangement in 3 sections bottom ventanilla (operable sliding solid panels from floor to sill), mid ventana (operable sliding wood/glass panels from sill

to top of awning) with plantation shutters, top transom (fixed glass from top of awning to ceiling)

providing maximum views, daylighting and ventilation.

Wooden shutters located at the west end effectively control late afternoon sun and offer privacy.

Clear or smoked glazing provides subdued daylighting. Capiz, a translucent material from bivalve

shells were traditionally used where glass was not available.

ROOF

Painted corrugated metal roof with wrap around and abovewindow awning. Metal roof was first

introduced late 19th to early 20th century which quickly replaced tile roof due to its weight

advantage, or nipa thatched roof which caught fire all too easily.

Deep overhangs provide ample shade while allowing windows to remain opened even during

heavy rains. Awnings could benefit from underside insulation to lessen radiated heat from being

transmitted into the interior.

Lighter colors help to reflect suns rays and lessen heat gain. Red is a favored color due to its resemblance to clay tile roof.

ADAPTIVE CHANGES

EXTERIOR WALL

Wood and stone construction. Ground floor of concrete (originally quarried natural adobe with

lime plaster) provides protection from damaging effects of rain while providing cooling effects of

thermal mass. Although new location is no longer prone to flooding, backsplash from awning runoff can be as damaging. Second and third floor of wood construction providing less thermal mass and heat gain.

Landscaping is a characteristic component of Philippine homes. Trees when matured, will provide

added shading where needed while minimizing disruption of airflow. The family also runs a large

scale flower farm and is very adept in horticulture.

PRESENT LIVING CONDITIONS

In an interview with its occupants at the site several years ago, the relocation was considered a

huge success, proud in that it will last several more generations.

Better environmental conditions only enhanced the already effective tropical design.

Airconditioning, which was added only as a backup for the warmest of nights, had hardly been used. With the constant breeze, electric fans are mostly unnecessary. The only drawback noted

with opened windows was mosquito control, They intend to install screens in living quarters that

match the architecture. Electrical lighting is only used in the evening. Power is provided by the

local utility company from gas fired generators.

REFERENCE:

De Jesus, P. 2010. Homework #1: Climate Responsive Building Design