Far Eastern University 2nd Semester 2020-2021

Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts

WEEK 3 MODULE: LOT TYPES AND SITE USE REQUIREMENTS PER BUILDINGS LAWS IN THE
PHILIPPINES

Topics:
1. lot types based on the standards of Building Laws (PD 1096, PD 957, BP 220). ·
2. different design guidelines and computation of site use (eg. USA, ISA, AMBF, PSO, MACA) and
correlate it with the different types and configuration of building setbacks as required by law. ·
3. open spaces and the relationship to the house project, where and where not to build ·
4. Case Studies: Analysis of Open Spaces in Lots to harmoniously establish connection from outdoor
context to indoor spaces. Discussed the importance of open spaces in house design in relation to
different building laws and design trends. ·
5. Mathematical Computation: Concepts of computing spaces and areas in lot and how it will affect the
overall livability of a House Design.

NBC PD1096 - chapter 7: BLDG. CLASSIFICATION BY USE & GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

BUILDING/STRUCTURE
A 3-dimensional physical development erected within a lot or property

BUILDING/STRUCTURE
A 3-dimensional physical development erected within a lot or property

DEVELOPMENT LEVELS
Above grade
At grade
Below grade

LOT
The physical setting for any building whereby the level or intensity of development covering such property is
regulated by development controls.
OCT
Original Certificate of Title
TCT
Transfer Certificate of Title

ARC 1402: ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN 2

 Far Eastern University 2nd Semester 2020-2021
Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts
DEVELOPMENT POTENTIAL OF LOT
Maximum extent of physical development that may be introduced into the lot

CARRYING CAPACITY OF LOT

Optimized extent of physical development w/o causing undue damage, effects or hardship;
Can be supported by utility, transport and service systems;

NEW DEVELOPMENT
New physical development within a lot that is open for development, vacant, unutilized, development-committed
or other lots that are similarly situated

REDEVELOPMENT
Physical development consisting mainly of renovation, rehabilitation, retrofit, upgrading, expansion within a lot or
property that is under-utilized or unfit for habitation

BUILDING HEIGHT LIMIT

Generally measured from established grade line to the topmost portion of the structure.

GRADE
Lowest point of elevation of finished ground surface between exterior wall and a point 1.5m from said wall

FLOOR-TO-FLOOR HEIGHT
Perpendicular distance or vertical measurement between the uppermost surfaces (finish level) of two successive
floors.

STOREY
Portion of structure between the uppermost surface (finish level) of any floor and the uppermost surface (finish
level) of the next floor above or below it.

CLASSIFICATION OF BUILDING HEIGHT

LOW-RISE - 1-5 storeys 3-15 meters
MEDIUM-RISE -6-15 storeys 18-45 meters
HIGH-RISE -16 + storeys 48 + meters

ARC 1402: ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN 2

 Far Eastern University 2nd Semester 2020-2021
Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts

BUILDING FOOTPRINT
Measured horizontally from the property line to the outermost faces of the exterior walls of the building/structure

PROJECTIONS
Any structurally attached portion of a building that is outside its outermost walls.

FLOOR PLATE
Gross expanse of a wall measured from the outermost edges of floor slabs; may or may not be representative of
the typical floor

ARC 1402: ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN 2

 Far Eastern University 2nd Semester 2020-2021
Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts

DEVELOPMENT CONTROLS
A set of inter-acting regulations concerning the physical utilization of a lot;
Governs planning and design of spaces and the use or occupancy of a building

ALLOWABLE MAXIMUM BUILDING FOOTPRINT (AMBF)

PERCENTAGE OF SITE OCCUPANCY (PSO) = Building footprint ; excludes basement footprint

IMPERVIOUS SURFACE AREA (ISA)

UNPAVED SURFACE AREA (USA)

MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE CONSTRUCTION AREA (MACA) = PSO + ISA ; excludes USA

FLOOR TO LOT AREA OR FLOOR AREA RATIO (FLAR/ FAR) = total floor area / total lot area

TOTAL OPEN SPACE WITHIN LOT (TOSL) = ( ISA + USA ) / TLA

ARC 1402: ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN 2

 Far Eastern University 2nd Semester 2020-2021
Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts

ARC 1402: ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN 2

 Far Eastern University 2nd Semester 2020-2021
Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts

FIREWALL
Reinforced masonry or RC separator w/ appropriate fire-resistive rating and positioned between dwellings/
buildings/structures;
No openings; Cannot be shared

ARC 1402: ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN 2

 Far Eastern University 2nd Semester 2020-2021
Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts

ABUTMENT
Semi-permanent or permanent structure along a property line usually of masonry or reinforced

SETBACK
The horizontal distance measured 90 degrees from the outermost face of a building/structure to a property line.

INCREMENTAL SETBACK
The horizontal distance between the outermost building/structure line of a lower floor and that of a higher floor.

YARD
Vacant space left between the outermost face of the building and the property lines.

ARC 1402: ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN 2

 Far Eastern University 2nd Semester 2020-2021
Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts
FRONT OF LOT
Side of a lot on which the main pedestrian and vehicular access into the property shall be situated.

COURT
Unoccupied space between the faces of the building lines and a yard or another court free, open and
unobstructed from the ground upward.

PODIUM
Fully enclosed component of the building situated between the established grade and the first of a typical floor of
the building’s tower component;

Not more than 12 storeys or 36meters

ARC 1402: ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN 2

 Far Eastern University 2nd Semester 2020-2021
Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts
TOWER
Fully enclosed component of the building situated between the podium and roof
Not higher than 5x podium height

ROAD RIGHT-OF-WAY (RROW) OR STREET

Public space for continuous flow of pedestrian and vehicular traffic that must be free from prohibited physical
obstructions.
Area lying between two or more properties and its width measured from opposite property lines.

ARC 1402: ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN 2

 Far Eastern University 2nd Semester 2020-2021
Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts

AIR RIGHTS
Right to physically develop and subsequently benefit or profit from the use of air space above the RROW.

ARC 1402: ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN 2

 Far Eastern University 2nd Semester 2020-2021
Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts

EASEMENT
Public open space that must be absolute free from all forms of physical obstructions that can negatively affect
natural light and ventilation or that can impede access or the full recreational use of such space by the general
public.
e.g.
Waterways
Public utilities
Railroad tracks

ARC 1402: ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN 2

 Far Eastern University 2nd Semester 2020-2021
Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts

SIGHTLINES
Line of view from any fixed or moving station point within a building/structure or from any other open space to a
built or natural structure, formation or vista.

VIEW CORRIDOR
Visually unobstructed width, depth and height of all available sightlines running through and along RROWs,
easements and open spaces.

ARC 1402: ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN 2

 Far Eastern University 2nd Semester 2020-2021
Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts

Occupancy Classified, Change in Use, Mixed Occupancy/ Occupancy Separation

• Location on Property
o Direct access to public or open space
o Eaves at least 750mm. From side and rear property lines
o Projections beyond exterior walls
o Buildings on same property; or with courts

• Allowable Floor Area

• Maximum Heights
o Measured from highest adjoining ground surface; height measured from lowest surface
shall not exceed maximum by 3.00 meters

ARC 1402: ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN 2

 Far Eastern University 2nd Semester 2020-2021
Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts

• Minimum Requirements for Group A Dwellings

o Location & Lot Occupancy
o Light & Ventilation
o Sanitation
o Foundation
o Post
o Floor
o Roof
o Stairs
o Entrance & Exit
o Electrical Reqts.
o Mech’l Reqts.

• Requirements for other Group Occupancies

A- Residential dwellings
B- Residential, Hotels, Apartments
C- Education and Recreation
D- Institutional
E- Business and Mercantile
F- Industrial
G- Storage and Hazardous
H- Assembly Buildings for less than 1000 occupants
I- Assembly Buildings for 1000 or more occupants
J- Accessory

ARC 1402: ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN 2

 Far Eastern University 2nd Semester 2020-2021
Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts

REFERENCES

Department of Public Works and Highways. (2005). The 2004 Revised IRR of PD No. 1096.
http://www.iibh.org/kijun/pdf/Philippines_02_IRR_of_NBC_of_the_Philippines.pdf

Mitton, M. & Nystuen, C. (2007). Residential Interior Design: A Guide to Planning Spaces. John Wiley & Sons,
Inc.

National Council on Disability Affairs. (2008). Batas Pambansa Bilang 344 (Accessibility Law) and its Original
and Amended Implementing Rules and Regulations. Quezon City, Philippines: NCDA.
https://www.dpwh.gov.ph/dpwh/references/laws_codes_orders/bpb344

ARC 1402: ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN 2

RESIDENTIAL
BUILDING
House Design Types per
Buildings Laws in the Philippines

Design 2
FEU Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts
2021
 • A residential building is a dwelling place where a person or a
group of persons lives or resides.
• There are different types of residential buildings defined in
different local codes.

Definition
SOURCE: CDEP. Review Module on Architectural Design.
 • SINGLE DETACHED
– A dwelling unit completely surrounded by yards

• SINGLE ATTACHED
– A dwelling unit with only one side attached to a firewall

• DUPLEX
– A dwelling unit containing 2 separate living units, each of which is separated from
another by a firewall and provided with independent access

• ROWHOUSE
– dwelling units containing 3 or more living units designed in such a way that they abut
each other and are separated from each other by a firewall; each unit provided with
independent access

PD 1096 (National Building Code of the Philippines)

DEFINITION

SOURCE: CDEP. Review Module on Architectural Design. I PD 1096

 • APARTMENT
– A room or suite of two or more rooms, designed and intended for, or occupied by one family for
living, sleeping and cooking purposes

• APARTMENT HOUSE
– Any building or a portion thereof, which is designed, built, rented. Leased, let or hired out to be
occupied or which is occupied as the home or residence of three or more families living
independently of each other and doing their own cooking in the building, shall include flats and
apartments

• MANSIONETTE
– Apartment with two levels, double storey

• WALK-UP
– Low rise apartments without a lift where one has to walk up using the stairs

PD 1096 (National Building Code of the Philippines)

DEFINITION

SOURCE: CDEP. Review Module on Architectural Design. I PD 1096

 • CONDOMINIUMS
– Apartment with facilities

• PENTHOUSE
– Biggest unit in a condominium or apartment block, usually with two
levels and located at the uppermost floor

PD 1096 (National Building Code of the Philippines)

DEFINITION

SOURCE: CDEP. Review Module on Architectural Design. I PD 1096

 • Residential occupancies are those occupancies in which
sleeping accommodations are provided for normal residential
purposes and include all buildings designed to provide
sleeping accommodation.

• Residential buildings, structures or facilities are treated

separately in this Rule in the following groups: hotels, motels,
apartelles, pension houses, inns, apartments, condominiums,
dormitories, lodging or rooming houses, and single and two -
family dwellings, and the likes.

RA 9514(FIRE CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES)

DEFINITION

SOURCE: CDEP. Review Module on Architectural Design. I RA 9514

 • HOTELS.
– Buildings or groups of building under the same management in which there
are more than fifteen (15) sleeping accommodations for hire, primarily used
by transients who are lodged with or without meals, whether designated as a
hotel, inn, motel, or by any other name. So-called apartelle, condotel or
pension houses shall be classified as hotels, because they are potentially
subject to transient occupancy like that of hotels.

• DORMITORIES.
– Buildings where group sleeping accommodation are provided for persons,
not members of the same family group in one room or in series of closely
associated room under joint occupancy and single management, as in
college dormitories, convents, fraternity houses, military barracks, and the
like.

RA 9514(FIRE CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES)

DEFINITION

SOURCE: CDEP. Review Module on Architectural Design. I RA 9514

 • APARTMENT BUILDINGS.
– Buildings containing three (3) or more living units with independent cooking
and bathroom facilities, whether designated as condominium, row house,
apartment house, tenement, garden apartment, or by any other name.
• LODGING OR ROOMING HOUSES.
– Building in which separate sleeping rooms are rented providing sleeping
accommodations for a total of fifteen (15) or less persons, on either a
transient or permanent basis; with or without meals, but without separate
cooking facilities for individual occupants.
• SINGLE AND TWO -FAMILY DWELLINGS.
– Detached dwellings in which each living unit is occupied by members of a
single family

RA 9514(FIRE CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES)

DEFINITION

SOURCE: CDEP. Review Module on Architectural Design. I RA 9514

 • ECONOMIC HOUSING
– A type of housing project provided to average income families

• SOCIALIZED HOUSING
– Refers to housing programs and projects covering houses and lots
and homelots only undertaken by the government or the private sector
for the underprivileged and homeless citizens which shall include sites
and services development, long term financing, liberalized terms on
interest payments, and such other benefits in accordance with the
provisions of R.A. 7279 or the urban development and housing act of
1992.

BP 220 (BATAS PAMBANSA 220)

DEFINITION

SOURCE: CDEP. Review Module on Architectural Design. I BP 220

 • COMMERCIAL CONDOMINIUM
– A building, or group of buildings, used for office, businesses,
professional services and other commercial enterprise organized,
owned and maintained as a condominium

• CONDOMINIUM UNIT
– Means a part of the condominium project intended for any type of
independent use or ownership, including one or more floors (or part or
parts of floors) in a building or buildings and such accessories as may
be appended thereto.

PD 957 (OPEN MARKET HOUSING)

DEFINITION

SOURCE: CDEP. Review Module on Architectural Design. I PD 957

 • CONDOMINIUM
– Shall mean an interest in real property consisting of a separate interest in a unit in a
residential, industrial or commercial building and an undivided interest in common
directly or indirectly, in the land on which it is located and in other common areas of
the building.

– A condominium may include, in addition, a separate interest in other portions of such

real property. Title to the common areas, including the land, or the appurtenant
interests in such areas, may be held by a corporation specially formed for the
purpose in which the holders of separate interests shall automatically be members
or shareholders, to the exclusive of others, in proportion to the appurtenant interest
of their respective units in the common areas.

– A building in which each individual unit is held in separate private ownership and all
floor space, facilities and outdoor areas used in common by all tenants are owned,
administered and maintained by a corporation created pursuant to the provisions of
the appropriate statute.

PD 957 (OPEN MARKET HOUSING)

DEFINITION

SOURCE: CDEP. Review Module on Architectural Design. I PD 957

 • CONDOMINIUM
– An individual dwelling unit under individual ownership in a multiple
units development with common elements in which:
• a. The units comprise not only the space enclosed by the unit boundaries, but all
material parts of the land within the space;
• b. The common element means all the property within the development except
the units;
• c. The common element is owned by all of the owners as tenants in common.

– A building or group of buildings, in which units are owned individually,

and the structure, common areas and facilities are owned by the
owners on a proportional undivided basis.

PD 957 (OPEN MARKET HOUSING)

DEFINITION

SOURCE: CDEP. Review Module on Architectural Design. I PD 957

 • DWELLING UNIT
– Structure designed or used as residence.

– One or more rooms that may be used as a residence, each unit

having sleeping, cooking and toilet facilities. One or more habitable
rooms designed or intended for use by 1 or more individuals as an
independent and separate housekeeping establishment in which
separate kitchen and sanitary facilities are provided for the exclusive
use of such individual or individuals, with a private entrance from
outside the building or from a common hallway or stairway inside the
building.

PD 957 (OPEN MARKET HOUSING)

DEFINITION

SOURCE: CDEP. Review Module on Architectural Design. I PD 957

 • MEDIUM COST AND OPEN MARKET
– refers to housing projects where prices of house and lot packages are
within the suggested price ranges as determined through HUDCC
resolution and falling under the standards prescribed in these rules.

PD 957 (OPEN MARKET HOUSING)

DEFINITION

SOURCE: CDEP. Review Module on Architectural Design. I PD 957

 • Each local code stipulates their own regulations and design
requirement
• It’s important to use the most stringent regulations among
different local codes

General Design Requirements

SOURCE: CDEP. Review Module on Architectural Design.
 • DWELLING LOCATION AND LOT OCCUPANCY
– Not more than 90% of a corner lot
– Not more than 80% of an inside lot
– At least 2.00 meters from the property line

• SANITATION
– Every dwelling shall be provided with one sanitary toilet and adequate
washing and drainage facilities

• FOUNDATION
– Minimum 250 mm thick and 600 mm below surface of ground

PD 1096 (National Building Code of the Philippines)

GENERAL DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

SOURCE: CDEP. Review Module on Architectural Design. I PD 1096

 • STAIR
– Minimum of 750 mm in clear width
– Maximum rise of 200 mm
– Minimum run of 200 mm

• ENTRANCE AND EXIT

– At least one entrance and another one for exit

• CEILING HEIGHT
– With artificial ventilation: not less than 2.40 meters (floor to ceiling)
• If > 1 storey: 1st storey minimum of 2.70 meter
• 2nd storey: minimum of 2.40 meters
• Succeeding storeys: 2.10 m unobstructed headroom clearance
– With natural ventilation: not less than 2.70 meters
– Mezzanine floors: not less than 1.80 meters above and below it.

PD 1096 (National Building Code of the Philippines)

GENERAL DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

SOURCE: CDEP. Review Module on Architectural Design. I PD 1096

 • AIR SPACE REQUIREMENT
– Air space requirement in determining sizes of rooms: 14.00 cum of air
space per room

• ENCLOSURES OF VERTICAL OPENINGS

– Air ducts: In Group A occupancies, air ducts need not be enclosed in a
shaft if conforming with the mechanical provisions of the code

• ROOF CONSTRUCTION AND COVERING

– Roof covering shall depend upon the fire resistive requirements of the
particular type of construction

PD 1096 (National Building Code of the Philippines)

GENERAL DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

SOURCE: CDEP. Review Module on Architectural Design. I PD 1096

 • ROOF CONSTRUCTION AND COVERING
– Attics
• Access. An attic access opening shall be provided in the ceiling of the top floor of
buildings with a combustible ceiling or roof construction. The opening shall be
located in a corridor or hallway of buildings of three (3) or more storeys in height and
readily accessible in buildings of any height. An opening shall not be less than 600
millimeters square or 600 millimeters in diameter. The minimum clear headroom of
800 millimeters shall be provided above the access opening. For ladder
requirements, refer to the Philippine Mechanical Engineering Code

• Area Separation. Enclosed attic spaces of combustible construction shall be divided

into horizontal areas not exceeding 250 sq. meters by fire-resistive partitions
extending from the ceiling to the roof. Except, that where the entire attic is equipped
with approved automatic fireextinguishing system, the attic space may be divided
into areas not to exceed 750 sq. meters. Openings in the partitions shall be protected
by self-closing doors.

PD 1096 (National Building Code of the Philippines)

GENERAL DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

SOURCE: CDEP. Review Module on Architectural Design. I PD 1096

 • ROOF CONSTRUCTION AND COVERING
– Attics
• Draft Stops. Regardless of the type of construction, draft stops shall be installed
in trusses roofs, between roof and bottom chords or trusses, in all buildings
exceeding 2000 sq. meters. Draft stops shall be constructed as for attic area
separations.

• Ventilation. Enclosed attics including rafter spaces formed where ceilings are
applied direct to the underside or roof rafters shall be provided with adequate
ventilation protected against the entrance of rain.

PD 1096 (National Building Code of the Philippines)

GENERAL DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

SOURCE: CDEP. Review Module on Architectural Design. I PD 1096

 • STAIRS, EXITS ANC OCCUPANT LOAD
– The construction of stairs and exits shall conform to the occupant load
requirements of buildings

– The occupant load permitted in any building or portion thereof shall be

determined by dividing the floor area assigned to that use by the unit area
allowed per occupant

PD 1096 (National Building Code of the Philippines)

GENERAL DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

SOURCE: CDEP. Review Module on Architectural Design. I PD 1096

 • STAIRS, EXITS ANC OCCUPANT LOAD

PD 1096 (National Building Code of the Philippines)

GENERAL DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

SOURCE: CDEP. Review Module on Architectural Design. I PD 1096

 • NUMBER OF EXITS
– Every building or usable portion thereof shall have at least one (1) exit.

– In all occupancies, floors above the first storey having an occupant load of
more than ten (10) shall not have less than two (2) exits.

– Each mezzanine floor used for other than storage purposes, if greater in
area than 185 sq. meters or more than 18.00 meters in any dimension, shall
have at least two (2) stairways to an adjacent floor.

– Every storey or portion thereof, having an occupant load of 500 to 999 shall
have at least three (3) exits.

– Every storey or portion thereof having an occupant load of one thousand

(1000) or more shall have at least four (4) exits.

PD 1096 (National Building Code of the Philippines)

GENERAL DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

SOURCE: CDEP. Review Module on Architectural Design. I PD 1096

 • NUMBER OF EXITS
– The number of exits required from any storey of a building shall be
determined by using the occupant loads of floors which exit through the level
under consideration as follows: 50% of the occupant load in the first
adjacent storey above (and the first adjacent storey below, when a storey
below exits through the level under consideration) and 25% of the occupant
load in the storey immediatelybeyond the first adjacent storey.

– The maximum number of exits required for any storey shall be maintained
until egress is provided from the structures.

– Floors above the second storey, basements and cellars used for other than
service of the building shall have not less than two (2) exits.

PD 1096 (National Building Code of the Philippines)

GENERAL DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

SOURCE: CDEP. Review Module on Architectural Design. I PD 1096

 • WIDTH OF EXITS
– The total width of exits in meters shall not be less than the total occupant load
served divided by one hundred sixty five (165).

– Such width of exits shall be divided approximately equally among the separate exits.

– The total exit width required from any storey of a building shall be determined by
using the occupant load of that storey plus the percentage of the occupant loads of
floors which exits through the level under consideration as follows: 50% of the
occupant load in the first adjacent storey above (and the first adjacent storey below
when a storey below exits through the level under consideration) and 25% of the
occupant load in the storeyimmediately beyond the first adjacent storey.

– The maximum exit width from any storey of a building shall be maintained.

PD 1096 (National Building Code of the Philippines)

GENERAL DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

SOURCE: CDEP. Review Module on Architectural Design. I PD 1096

 • ARRANGEMENT OF EXITS
– If only two (2) exits are required, they shall be placed a distance apart
to not less than one-fifth (1/5) of the perimeter of the area served
measured in a straight line between exits.

– Where three (3) or more exits are required, they shall be arranged a
reasonable distance apart so that if one becomes blocked, the others
will be available.

PD 1096 (National Building Code of the Philippines)

GENERAL DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

SOURCE: CDEP. Review Module on Architectural Design. I PD 1096

 • DISTANCE TO EXITS
– No point in a building without a sprinkler system shall be more than
45.00 meters from an exterior exit door, a horizontal exit, exit
passageway, or an enclosed stairway, measured along the line of
travel. In a building equipped with a complete automatic fire
extinguishing system, the distance from exits may be increased to
60.00 meters.

PD 1096 (National Building Code of the Philippines)

GENERAL DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

SOURCE: CDEP. Review Module on Architectural Design. I PD 1096

 • DOORS
– Minimum width of required exit door: 0.90 m

– Minimum height of required exit door: 2.00 m

– Doors in exit doorways should be capable of being opened at least 90 degrees

– Minimum clear width of exit way: 0.70 m

– Maximum door leaf width: 1.20 m

– In group A and B Occupancies, a door may open on the top step of a flight of stairs
or exterior landing provided that the door does not swing over the top step or
exterior landing and the landing is not more than 200 mm below the floor level

PD 1096 (National Building Code of the Philippines)

GENERAL DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

SOURCE: CDEP. Review Module on Architectural Design. I PD 1096

 • CORRIDORS AND EXTERIOR EXIT BALCONIES
– Minimum width of corridors or exit balcony: 1.10 m

– Trim handrails and doors when fully opened shall not reduce the
required width by more than 200 mm

– Minimum length of dead ends in corridors and exit balconies: 6.00 m

PD 1096 (National Building Code of the Philippines)

GENERAL DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

SOURCE: CDEP. Review Module on Architectural Design. I PD 1096

 • STAIRWAYS
– Minimum stairway width:
• For occupant load of more than 50: 1.10 m
• For occupant load of 50 or less: 0.90 m
• Private stairways serving an occupant load of less than 10: 0.75 m

– Trim and handrails shall not reduce the required width by more than 100 mm

– Maximum rise of every step: 200 mm

– Minimum run: 250 mm

– Maximum variation of riser and treads in any one flight: 5 mm

– Winding stairways may be used for group A occupancies and in private stairways in group B
occupancies if the required width of the run is provided at a point not more than 300 mm from the
side of the stairway where treads are narrower, but in no case shall the width of run be less than
150 mm at any point

PD 1096 (National Building Code of the Philippines)

GENERAL DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

SOURCE: CDEP. Review Module on Architectural Design. I PD 1096

 • STAIRWAYS
– Minimum width of run for circular stairs: 250 mm

– Maximum variation of tread for circular stairs: 5 mm

– Minimum width of landing (measured in the direction of travel) equal to the width of
stairway

– Minimum width of landing if stairs has straight run: 1.20 m

– Minimum vertical clearance between landings: 3.60 m

– Handrails on stairways serving one individual dwelling unit in Group A or B occupancies

may have one handrail on the open sides
• Minimum 800 mm above nosing of tread
• Maximum 900 mm above nosing of treas

PD 1096 (National Building Code of the Philippines)

GENERAL DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

SOURCE: CDEP. Review Module on Architectural Design. I PD 1096

 • STAIRWAYS
– Handrails not required is stairways have less than 4 risers

– Minimum headroom clearance: 2.00 m

– Stairs in group A occupancies need not be enclosed

• FIRE EXTINGUISHING SYSTEMS

– Required for all areas 200 sqm or more and with an occupant load of
more than 20

PD 1096 (National Building Code of the Philippines)

GENERAL DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

SOURCE: CDEP. Review Module on Architectural Design. I PD 1096

 • GENERAL
– OCCUPANT LOAD
• One (1) person per 18.60 sqm gross floor area, except for detached single and
two-family dwellings
• Any open mezzanine and balcony shall be added to the occupant load of the
floor below for the purpose of determining exit capacity

– CAPACITY OF EXITS
• Minimum width of egress: 915 mm
• Minimum door width: 710 mm
• For double doors, one door shall not be less than 710 mm
• Maximum door width: 1220 mm
• Based on capacity factors for type of occupancy

RA 9514 (Fire Code of the Philippines)

GENERAL DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

SOURCE: CDEP. Review Module on Architectural Design. I RA 9514

 • SINGLE AND TWO FAMILY DWELLINGS
– MEANS OF ESCAPE REQUIREMENT
• In any dwelling of more than 2 rooms, every room used for sleeping, living or dining purposes
shall have at least two means of escape, at least one of which shall be a door or stairway

• Every sleeping room shall have at least one outside window width
– Can be opened from the inside without the use of tools, keys or special knowledge
– Minimum 560 mm in clear width
– Minimum 800 mm in height
– Bottom of the opening minimum 1220 mm from floor
– Except if room has two doors providing separate ways of escape or has a door leading directly outside
the building
– Minimum 900 mm wide exit access

• Doors
– Minimum 700 mm clear width for doors in the path of travel

RA 9514 (Fire Code of the Philippines)

GENERAL DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

SOURCE: CDEP. Review Module on Architectural Design. I RA 9514

 Parameters Economic Socialized
Project Location Within suitable site for housing and outside hazard prone area
Minimum Lot Areas
a. Single Detached 72 sqm 64 sqm
b. Duplex 54 sqm 48 sqm
c. Row House 36 sqm 28 sqm
Minimum Lot Frontage
a. Single Detached
• Corner lot 8m 8m
• Regular lot 8m 8m
• Irregular lot 4m 4m
• Interior lot 3m 3m
b. Duplex 6m 6m
c. Rowhouse 4m 3.5 m
Length of Block Max. 400 m
Provide alley/ pathwalk for blocks more than 250 m

BP 220 (Economic and Socialized Housing)

GENERAL DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

SOURCE: CDEP. Review Module on Architectural Design. I RA 9514

 Parameters Economic Socialized
Road Right of Way Min. width of interconnecting road project for interior subdivision:
10 m
Setback of 3m x 5 m at both sides of subdivision entrance
Minimum Width of Planting Planting Strip Sidewalk
Strips and Sidewalk
For 15 m RROW 1.30 m 1.20 m
For 12 m RROW 0.80 m 1.20 m
For 10 m RROW 0.80 m 1.20 m
For 8 m RROW 0.40 m 0.60 m
For 6 m RROW Optional 0.50 m
Water Supply Connection Mandatory connection to public water system
Minimum Water Supply 150 liters per capita per day

BP 220 (Economic and Socialized Housing)

GENERAL DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

SOURCE: CDEP. Review Module on Architectural Design. I RA 9514

 Parameters Economic Socialized
Electric Power Supply Mandatory Connection to Local Power Source
Provide street lighting for every 50 m distance
Installation shall be in accordance with the Philippine Electrical
Code
Drainage System Concrete Lined Canal
Sewage Disposal System Individual Septic Tank
Minimum Floor Area 22 sqm 18 sqm
Minimum Level of Completion Complete House Shell House
Minimum Setbacks
Front 1.50 m
Side 1.50 m
Rear 2.00 m
Minimum Ceiling Height 2.00 m

BP 220 (Economic and Socialized Housing)

GENERAL DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

SOURCE: CDEP. Review Module on Architectural Design. I RA 9514

 Parameters Economic Socialized
Minimum Stairway Width 600 mm
Maximum Riser Height 200 mm
Minimum Tread Depth 250 mm
Minimum Door Dimension 0.80 m x 2.00 m for main door
0.70 m x 2.00 m for service door
0.60 m x 2.00 m for toilet door

BP 220 (Economic and Socialized Housing)

GENERAL DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

SOURCE: CDEP. Review Module on Architectural Design. I RA 9514

 Parameters Open Market Medium Cost
Project Location Within suitable site for housing and outside hazard prone area
Land Allocation Maximum Saleable: 70%
Minimum Non-saleable: 30%
Minimum Lot Areas
a. Single Detached 120 sqm 100 sqm
b. Duplex 96 sqm 80 sqm
c. Row House 60 sqm 50 sqm
Minimum Lot Frontage
a. Single Detached
• Corner lot 12 m
• Regular lot 10 m
• Irregular lot 6m
• Interior lot 3m
b. Duplex 8m
c. Rowhouse 4m
Length of Block Max. 400 m
Provide alley/ pathwalk for blocks more than 250 m

PD 957(Open Market Housing)

GENERAL DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

SOURCE: CDEP. Review Module on Architectural Design. I PD 957

 Parameters Open Market Medium Cost
Road Right of Way Min. width of interconnecting road project for interior subdivision:
10 m
Setback of 3m x 5 m at both sides of subdivision entrance
Minimum Width of Planting Planting Strip Sidewalk
Strips and Sidewalk
For 15 m RROW 1.30 m 1.20 m
For 12 m RROW 0.80 m 1.20 m
For 10 m RROW 0.80 m 1.20 m
For 8 m RROW 0.40 m 0.60 m
For 6 m RROW Optional 0.50 m
Water Supply Connection Mandatory connection to public water system
Minimum Water Supply 150 liters per capita per day

PD 957 (Open Market Housing)

GENERAL DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

SOURCE: CDEP. Review Module on Architectural Design. I PD 957

 Parameters Open Market Medium Cost
Electric Power Supply Mandatory Connection to Local Power Source
Provide street lighting for every 50 m distance
Installation shall be in accordance with the Philippine Electrical
Code
Drainage System Underground
Sewage Disposal System Individual Septic Tank
Minimum House Floor Area 42 sqm 30 sqm
Minimum Floor Area 36 sqm 22 sqm
(Condominium Unit) *18 sqm for single occupant
*12 sqm for student/ employee
Minimum Level of Completion Complete House Complete House
Minimum Setbacks Shall conform to National Building Code Provisions
Minimum Ceiling Height Shall conform to National Building Code Provisions

PD 957(Open Market Housing)

GENERAL DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

SOURCE: CDEP. Review Module on Architectural Design. I RA 9514

 Parameters Open Market Medium Cost
Minimum Stairway Width Shall conform to National Building Code Provisions
Maximum Riser Height 200 mm
Minimum Tread Depth 250 mm
Minimum Door Dimension Shall conform to National Building Code Provisions

PD 957(Open Market Housing)

GENERAL DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

SOURCE: CDEP. Review Module on Architectural Design. I PD 957

THANK YOU.
Prepared by MAKBAR

Design 2
FEU Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts
2021
WEEK 4: RESIDENTIAL BUILDING PARTS AND COMPONENTS (IDENTIFICATION THROUGH
ARCHITECTURAL DRAWINGS)
Topic 1. DISTINGUISHING BUILDING PARTS PER STANDARDS

To understand how the building standards are applied in the design of residences it is important to understand first the different
components of a house.

SECTION 3.01.08: Maximum Requirements for Group A Dwellings: One Two Stories

(a) Dwelling Location and Lot Occupancy. The dwelling shall occupy not more than 90 per cent of a corner lot and 80
per cent of an inside lot, and subject to the provisions on easements of light and view of the Civil Code of the
Philippines, shall be at least 2.00 meters (6 feet, inches) from the property line.
(b) Light and Ventilation. Every dwelling shall be so constructed and arranged as to provide adequate light and
ventilation.

(1) Habitable rooms, bathrooms, toilet rooms and utility rooms shall have a height of not less than 2.40 meters (8
feet), measured from floor to ceiling.

(2) Rooms shall have a minimum size of 6.00 square meters (65 square feet) with a least horizontal dimension of
2.00 meters (6 feet, 7 inches) for rooms of human habitations; 3.00 square meters (32 feet) with a least horizontal
dimension of 1.50 meters (5 feet) for kitchens; and 1.20 square meters (13 square feet) with a least horizontal
dimension of 90 centimeters (3 feet) for bathrooms.

(3) Windows shall be at least 1/10th of the floor area of the room.

(c) Sanitation. Every dwelling shall be provided with at least one sanitary toilet and adequate washing and drainage
facilities.

(d) Foundation. Footing shall be of sufficient size and strength to support the load and dwelling and shall be at least
30 centimeters (1 foot) thick and 60 centimeters (2 feet) below the surface of the ground. Each post shall be
anchored to such footings by straps and bolts of adequate size.

(e) Post or Suportales. The dimensions of wooden post or suportales shall be those found in Table 3.01 - A
Dimension of Wooden Posts or Suportales (Annex B).

(f) Floor. The live load of the first floor shall be at least 200 kilograms per square meter (40 pounds per square foot)
and for the second floor, at least 150 kilograms per square meter (30 pounds per square foot).

(g) Roof. The wind load for roofs shall be at least 150 kilograms per square meter (30 pounds per square foot).

(h) Stairs. Stairs may be 75 centimeters (30 inches) wide, with a rise of 20 centimeters (8 inches) and a run of 23
centimeters (9 inches).

(i) Entrance and Exit. There shall be one entrance and one exit.

(j) Electrical Outlets. There shall be at least one convenience outlet per 6.00 meters (20 feet) of wall measured along
the floor and one light outlet for every room.

(k) Mechanical Requirements. Family dwellings not more than two stories shall be exempt from the requirements of
the Mechanical Code.

TITLE 7 - ENGINEERING REGULATIONS

Chapter 7.01 - GENERAL DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

SECTION 7.01.01: Scope

(a) The design and construction of all buildings and structures shall be in compliance with the provisions of the
National Structural Code for Buildings, latest edition, adopted and promulgated by the Board of examiners of civil
engineers pursuant to Republic Act Numbered 544, as amended, otherwise known as the "Civil Engineering Law".

TITLE 8 - DETAILED REGULATIONS

Chapter 8.01 - GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
SECTION 8.01.01: General

(a) Buildings proposed for construction shall comply with all the regulations and specifications herein set forth
governing quality, characteristics and properties of materials, methods of design and construction, type of occupancy,
and classification of construction.

SECTION 8.01.02: Excavations, Foundations, and Retaining Walls

(a) General. Subject to the provisions of Articles 684 to 686 of the Civil Code of the Philippines on lateral and
subjacent support, the quality of materials and design used structurally in excavations, footings and shall conform to
the internationally recognized and accepted principles of engineering.

(b) Excavation or fills.

(1) Excavation or fills for any building structure and excavations or fills accessory thereto shall be so constructed or
protected that they do not endanger life and property.

(2) Whenever or wherever the depth of any excavation for a new construction is such that the lateral and subjacent
support of the adjoining property or existing structure thereon would be affected in a manner that the stability of
safety of the same is in endanger, the person undertaking or causing the excavation to be undertaking or causing the
excavation to be undertaken shall be responsible for the expense of underpinning or extending the foundation or
footings of the aforementioned property or structure only when such underpinning is necessary for the safety of the
same during excavation.

(3) Excavations and other similar disturbances made on public property caused by public utilities shall be repaired
immediately and returned to its former condition within 48 years from the start of such excavations and disturbances
by the public utility franchise owner and the duly constituted officials thereof. Adequate signs and safeguards shall be
installed around and near the excavation to protect the public from any danger of falling into the excavation.
Repeated and flagrant violations of this Section shall be the basis of revocation of any public utility franchise. This
provision shall not exempt the franchise owner and the duly constituted officials thereof from any criminal or civil
liabilities arising from such excavations and disturbances to third persons.

(c) Footings and Foundations, and Retining Walls

(1) Footings and foundations shall be of the appropriate type, of adequate size, and capacity in order to safely
sustain the superimposed loads under seismic or any condition to external forces that may affect the safety or
stability of the structure. It shall be the responsibility of the architect and/or engineer to adopt the type and design of
the same in accordance with generally accepted principles and standards of engineering.

(2) Whenever or wherever there exists in the site of the construction on abrupt change in the ground levels or levels
of the foundation such that instability of the soil could result, retaining walls shall be provided and such shall be of
adequate design and type of construction in accordance with generally accepted standards and principles of
engineering.

SECTION 8.01.03: Veneer

(a) Definition. Veneer is a nonstructural facing of brick, concrete, stone, tile, metal, plastic, glass, or other similar
approved materials attached to a backing or structural components of the building for the purpose of ornamentation,
protection, or enclosure that may be adhered, integrated, or anchored either on the exterior or interior of the building
or structure.
(b) Design Requirements. The design of all veneer shall comply with the following:cralaw
(1) Veneer shall support no load other than its own weight and the vertical dead load of veneer above.

(2) Surfaces to which veneer is attached shall be designed to support the additional vertical and lateral loads
imposed by the veneer.

(3) Consideration shall be given for differential movement of supports including that caused by temperature changes,
shinkage, creep, and deflection.

(4) Adhered veneer and its backing shall be designed to have a bond to the supporting elements sufficient to
withstand shearing stresses due to their weights including seismic effects on the total assemblage.

(5) Anchored veneer and its attachments shall be designed to resist external forces equal to twice the weight of the
veneer.

(6) Anchors, supports, and veneers shall be incombustible corrosion-resistant.

(c) Construction. The person undertaking a causing a construction to be undertaken shall observe, to the satisfaction
of the Building Official, internationally recognized and accepted principles governing dimensions of units, weights of
materials, methods of construction, attachment or anchorage, bonding or anchorage, bonding or adhesion, structural
adequacy and type and rigidity of backing, and considerations for differential movements of supports including that
caused by temperature changes, shinkage, creep, and deflection.

SECTION 8.01.04: Enclosure of Vertical Openings

(a) General. Vertical openings be enclosed depending upon the fire-resistive requirements of a particular type of
construction as set forth in this Code.

(b) Elevator Enclosures. Walls and partitions enclosing elevators and escalators shall be not less than the fire-
resistive construction required under the Types of Construction. Enclosing walls of elevators shafts may consist of
wire glass set in metal frames on the entrance side only. Elevator shafts extending through more than two stories
shall be equipped with an approved means of adequate ventilation to and through the main roof of the building:
Provided, That in buildings housing Groups G and F Occupancies equipped with automatic fire-extinguishing
systems throughout, enclosures shall not be required to escalators: Provided, further, That the top of the escalator
opening at each story shall be provided with a draft curtain. Such draft curtain shall enclose the perimeter of the
unenclosed opening and shall extend from the ceiling downward at least 30 centimeters (12 inches) on all sides.
Automatic sprinklers shall be provided around the perimeter of the opening and within 60 centimeters (2 feet) of the
draft curtain. The distance between the sprinklers shall not exceed 1.80 meters (6 feet) center-to-center.

(c) Other Vertical Openings. All shafts, ducts, chutes, and other vertical openings not covered in paragraph (b),
above shall have enclosing walls conforming to the requirements specified under the Type of Construction of the
building in which they are located. In other than Group A Occupancies rubbish and linen chutes shall terminate in
rooms separated from the remainder of the bidding by a One-Hour Fire-Resistive Occupancy Separation. Openings
into the chutes shall not be located in required exit corridors or stairways.

(d) Air Ducts. Air ducts passing through a floor shall be enclosed in a shaft. The shaft shall be as required in this
Code for vertical openings. Dampers shall be installed where ducts pierce the shaft enclosure walls. Air ducts in
Group A Occupancies need not be enclosed in a shaft if conforming to the mechanical provisions of this Code.

SECTION 8.01.05: Floor Construction

(a) Floor construction shall be of materials and construction as specified under Title 2 on Fired Zones and Fire-
Resistive Standards and under Title 4 on Types of Construction.

(b) All floors shall be so framed and tied into the framework and supporting walls as to form an integral part of the
whole building.

(c) The types of floor construction used shall provide means to keep the beams and girders from spreading by
installing either ties or bridging, with no laterally unsupported length of joints being permitted to exceed 2.40 meters
(8 feet) except as otherwise specified in this Code.

SECTION 8.01.06: Roof Construction ad Covering

(a) Roof Coverings. Roof coverings for all buildings shall be either fire-retardant or ordinary depending upon the fire-
resistive requirements of the particular Type of Construction. The use of combustible roof insulation shall be
permitted in all Types of Construction provided it is covered with approved roof covering applied directly thereto.

(b) Roof Trusses. All roofs shall be so framed and tied into the framework and supporting walls so as to form an
integral part of the whole building. Roof trusses shall have all joints well fitted and shall have all tension members
well tightened before any load is placed on the truss. Diagonal and sway bracing shall be used to brace all roof
trusses. The allowable working stresses of materials in trusses shall conform to this Code. The minimum net section
of the members after framing shall be used in determining the strength on the truss at any point.

(c) Attics

(1) Access. An attic access opening shall be provided in the ceiling of the top floor of buildings with combustible
ceiling or roof construction. The opening shall be located in a corridor or hallway of buildings or three or more stories
in height, and readily accessible in buildings of any height. The opening be not less than 55 centimeters by 75
centimeters (22 inches by 30 inches). Seventy-five centimeters (30 inches) minimum clear headroom shall be
provided above the access opening. Attics with a maximum vertical clear height of less than 75 centimeters (30
inches) need not be provided with access openings.

(2) Area Separations. Enclosed attics spaces formed of combustible construction shall be divided into horizontal
areas not exceeding 230 square meters (2500 square feet) by partitions extending from the ceiling to the roof. Such
partitions shall be not less than 13 millimeters (1/2 inch) thick gypsum wallboard, or 2.5 centimeters (1 inch) nominal
thickness tight-fitting wood, 10 millimeters (3/28 inch) thick plywood or approved incombustible materials adequately
supported. Openings in the partitions shall be protected by self-closing doors constructed as required for the
partitions: Except, That where the entire attic is equipped with an approved automatic fire-extinguishing system, the
attic space may be divided into areas not to exceed 700 square meters (7500 square feet).

(3) Draft Stops. Regardless of the Type of Construction, draft stops shall be installed in trussed roofs, between roof
and bottom chord of trusses, in all buildings exceeding 1900 square meters (20,000 square feet). Draft stops shall be
constructed as for attic area separations, and in accordance with Type of Construction.

(4) Ventilation. Enclosed attics and enclosed rafter spaces formed where ceilings are applied direct to the underside
of roof rafters, shall have cross ventilation for each separate space by ventilating and openings protected against the
entrance of rain. The net free ventilating area shall be not less than 1/150ths of the area of the space ventilated,
except that the area nay be 1/300ths this provided by ventilators located in the upper portion of the space to be
ventilated at least 90 centimeters (3 feet) above eave or cornice vents with the balance of the required ventilation
provide by eave or cornice vents.
(d) Roof Drainage. Roof systems not designed to support accumulated water shall be sloped for drainage.

(1) Roof Drains. Unless roofs are sloped to drain over roof edges or are designed to support accumulated water, roof
drains shall be installed at each low point of the roof. Roof drains shall be adequate in size to convey the water
tributary to the roof drains.

(2) Overflow Drains and Scuppers. Where roof drains are required, overflow drains having the same size as the roof
drains shall be installed with the inlet flow line located 5 centimeters (2 inches) above the low point of the roof, or
overflow scuppers having three times the size of the roof drains may be installed in adjacent parapet walls with the
inlet flow line 5 centimeters (2 inches) above the low the point of the adjacent roof and having minimum opening
height of 10 centimeters (4 inches). Overflow drains shall be connected to drain lines independent from the roof
drains.

(3) Concealed Piping. Roof drainage overflow drains, when concealed within the construction of the building, shall be
installed.

(4) Over Public Property. Roof drainage water from a building shall not be permitted to flow over public property,
except for Groups A and J Occupancies.

(e) Flashing. At the juncture of the roof and vertical surface, flashing and counterflashing shall be provided.

SECTION 8.01.07: Stairs, Exits, and Occupant Loads

(a) General. The construction of stairs exits, and occupant loads shall conform to requirements for occupants of
buildings, reviewing stands, bleachers, and grandstands.

(1) Determination of Occupant Loads. The occupant load permitted in any building or portion thereof shall be
determined by dividing the floor area assigned to that use by the square meters or square feet per occupant
according generally accepted principles of engineering. The capacity of a building containing mixed occupancies
shall be determined by adding the number of occupants of the various parts of the building classified as to
Occupancy and Type of Construction.

(2) Exit Requirements. Exit requirements of a building or portion thereof used for different purposes shall be
determined by the occupant load which gives the largest number of persons. No obstruction shall be placed the
required width of an exit except projections permitted by this code.

(3) Posting of Room Capacity. Any room having an occupant load of more than 50 where fixed seats are not
installed, and which is used for classroom, assembly, or similar purpose, shall have the capacity of the room posted
in a conspicuous place near the main exit from the room. Approved signs shall be maintained in a legible manner by
the owner or his authorized agent, and shall indicate the number of occupants permitted for each room use.

(4) Changes in Elevation. Except in Group A Occupancies, changes in elevation of not less than 30 centimeters (12
inches) along any exit serving a tributary occupant load of 10 or more shall be by means of ramps.

(b) Exits Required

(1) Number of Exits. Every building or usable portion thereof shall have at least one exit. In all occupancies, floors
above the first story having an occupant load of more than 10 shall have not less than two exits. Each mezzanine
used for other than storage purposes, if greater in area than 185 square meters (2000 square feet), or if more than
18.00 meters (60 feet) in any dimension shall have not less than two stairways to an adjacent floor. Every story or
portion thereof, having an occupant load of 500 to 999 shall have not less than three exits. Every story or portions
thereof, having an occupant load of 1000 or more shall have not less than four exits. The number of exits required
from any story of a building shall be determined by using the occupant loads of floors which exit through the level
under consideration as follows: 50 per cent of the occupant load in the first adjacent story above (and the first
adjacent story below, when a story below exits through the level under consideration) and 25 per cent of the
occupant load in the story immediately beyond the first adjacent story. The maximum number of exits required for
any story shall be maintained until egress is provided from the structure. For purposes of this Section, basements or
cellars and occupied roofs shall be provided with exits as required for stories. Floors above the second story,
basements, and cellars used for other than service of the building shall have not less than two exits.

(2) Width. The total width of exists in meters shall be not less than the total occupant load served divided by 165 (in
feet, by 50). Such width of exits shall be divided approximately equally among the separate exits. The total exit width
required from any story of a building shall be determined by using the occupant load of that story, plus the
percentage of the occupant loads of floors which exit through the level under considerations as follows: 50 per cent of
the occupant load in the first adjacent story above (and the first adjacent story below when a story below exits
through the level under consideration) and 25 per cent of the occupant load in the story immediately beyond the first
adjacent story. The maximum exit width required from any story of a building shall be maintained.

(3) Arrangement of Exits. If only two exits are required they shall be placed a distance apart equal to not less than
one-fifth of the perimeter of the area served measured in a straight line between exits. Where three or more exits are
required they shall be arranged a reasonable distance apart so that if one becomes blocked others will be available.

(4) Distance to Exits. No point in an unsprinkled building shall be more than 45.00 meters (150 feet) from an exterior
exit door, a horizontal exit, exit passageway, or an enclosed stairway, measured along the line of travel. In building
equipped with a complete automatic fire-extinguishing system the distance from exits may be increased to 60.00
meters (200 feet).

(c) Doors. The provisions herein shall apply to every exit door serving an area having an occupant load more than
10, or serving hazardous rooms or areas.

(1) Swing. Exit doors shall swing in the direction of exit travel when serving any hazardous areas or when serving an
occupant load of 50 or more. Double acting doors shall not be used as a part of fire assembly, nor equipped with
panic hardware. A double acting door shall be provided with a view panel of not less than 1300 square centimeters
(200 square inches).

(2) Type of Lock or Latch. Exit door shall be openable from the inside without the use of a key or any special
knowledge or effort: Except, That this requirement shall not apply to exterior exit doors in a Group E or F Occupancy
if there is a conspicuous, readily visible and durable sign on or adjacent to the door, stating that the door is to remain
unlocked during business hours. The locking device must be of a type that will be readily distinguishable as locked.
Flush bolts or surface bolts are prohibited.

(3) Width and Height. Every required exit doorway shall be of a size as to permit the installation of a door not less
than 90 centimeters (3 feet) in width and not less than 2.00 meters (6 feet, 7 inches) in height. When installed in exit
doorways, exits doors shall be capable of opening at least 90 degrees and shall be so mounted that the clear width of
the exitway is not less than 70 centimeters (2 feet, 4 inches). In computing the required exit width, the net dimension
of the exitway shall be used.

(4) Door Leaf Width. No leaf an exit door shall exceed 1.20 meters (4 feet) in width.

(5) Special Doors. Revolving, sliding, and overhead doors shall not be used as required exits.
(6) Egress from Door. Every required exit door shall give immediate access to an approved means of egress from the
building.

(7) Change in Floor Level at Doors. Regardless of the occupant load, there shall be a floor or landing on each side of
and exit door. The floor or landing shall be level with, or not more than 5 centimeters (2 inches) lower than the
threshold of the doorway: Except, That in Groups A and B Occupies, a door may open on the top step of a flight of
stairs or an exterior landing providing the door does not swing over the top step or exterior landing and the landing is
not more than 19 centimeters (7-1/2 inches) below the floor level.

(8) Door Identification. Glass doors shall conform to the requirements specified in Section 10.05.05. Other exit doors
shall be so marked that they are readily distinguishable from the adjacent construction.

(9) Additional Doors. When additional doors are provided for egress purposes, they shall conform to all provisions in
the following cases: Approved revolving door having leaves which will collapse under opposing pressures may be
used in exit situations: Provided, That such doors have a minimum width of 2.00 meters (6 feet, 7 inches); or they are
not used in occupancies where exits are required to be equipped with panic hardware; or at least one conforming exit
door is located adjacent to each revolving door installed in a building, and the revolving door shall not be considered
to provide any exit width.

(d) Corridors and Exterior Exit Balconies. The provisions herein shall apply to every corridor and exterior exit balcony
serving as required exit for an occupant load of more than 10.

(1) Width. Every corridor or exterior exit balcony shall be not less in which 1.12 meters (3 feet, 8 inches).

(2) Projections. The required width of corridors and exterior exit balconies shall be unobstructed: Except, That trim,
handrails, and doors when fully opened shall not reduce the required width by more than 18 centimeters (7 inches).
Doors in any position shall not reduce the required width by more than one-half.

(3) Access to Exits. When more than one exit is required, they shall be so arranged to allow going to either direction
from any point in the corridor or exterior exit balcony to a separate exit, except for dead ends permitted.

(4) Dead Ends. Corridors and exterior exit balconies with dead ends are permitted when the dead ends does not
exceed 6.00 meters (20 feet) in length.

(5) Construction. Walls and ceilings of corridors shall be not less than one hour fire-resistive construction: Except,
That this requirement shall not apply to exterior exit balcony railings, corridors of a one-story building housing a
Group E or F Occupancy occupied by one tenant only and which serves an occupant load of 30 less, nor to corridors,
formed by temporary partitions. Exterior exit balconies cannot project into an area where protected openings are
required.

(6) Openings. Where corridor walls are required to be one-hour fire-resistive construction every interior door opening
shall be protected as set forth in generally recognized and accepted requirements for dual purpose fire exit doors.
Other interior openings, except ventilation louvers equipped with approved automatic fire shutters shall be 6.3
millimeters (1/4 inch) fixed wire glass set in steel frames. The total area of all openings other than doors, in any
portion of an interior corridor wall shall not exceed 25 per cent of the area of the corridor wall of the room which it is
separating from the corridor.

(c) Stairways. Every stairway serving any building or portion thereof shall conform to the following requirements of
this Code except stairs or ladders used only to attend equipment.
(1) Width. Stairways serving an occupant load of more than 50 shall be not less in width than 1.12 meters (3 feet, 8
inches). Stairways serving an occupant load of 50 less may be 90 centimeters (3 feet) wide. Private stairways serving
an occupant load less than 10 may be 75 centimeters (2 feet, 6 inches) wide. Trim and handrails shall not reduce the
required width may more than 9 centimeters (3-1/2 inches).

(2) Rise and Run. The rise of every step in a stairway shall not exceed 19 centimeters (7-1/2 inches) and the run
shall not be less than 25 centimeters (10 inches). Except as provided under paragraph (d) the maximum variations in
the height of risers and the width of treads in any one flight shall be 5 millimeters (3-1/2 inch): Except, That in private
stairways serving an occupant load of less than 10, the rise may be 20 centimeters (8 inches) and run may be 23
centimeters (9 inches).

(3) Winding Stairway. In Group A Occupancies and in private stairways in Group B Occupancies, winders may be
used if the required width of run is provided at a point not more than 30 centimeters (12 inches) from the side of the
stairway where the treads are the narrower, but in no case shall any width of run be less than 15 centimeters (6
inches) at any point.

(4) Circular Stairways. Circular stairs may be used as an exit provided the minimum width of run is not less than 25
centimeters (10 inches). All treads in any one flight between landing shall have identical dimensions within a 5-
millimeters (3/16-inch) tolerance.

(5) Landings. Every landing shall have a dimension measured in the direction of travel equal to the width of the
stairway. Such dimension need not exceed 1.20 meters (4 feet) when the stair has a straight run. Landings, when
provided shall not be reduced in width by more than 9.3 centimeters (3-1/2 inches) by a door when fully open.

(6) Basement Stairways. Where a basement stairway and stairway to an upper story terminate in the same exit
enclosure, an approved barrier shall be provided to prevent persons from continuing on into the basement.
Directional exit signs shall be provided as specified in this Code.

(7) Distance Between Landings. There shall be not more than 3.65 meters (12 feet) vertically between landings.

(8) Handrails. Stairways shall have handrails on each side, and every stairway required to be more than 3.00 meters
(9 feet) in width shall be provided with not less than one intermediate handrail for each 3.00 meters (9 feet of required
width. Intermediate handrails shall be spaced approximately equal within the entire width of the stairway. Handrails
shall be placed not less than 75 centimeters (2 feet, 6 inches) nor more than 85 centimeters (2 feet, 10 inches) above
the nosing of threads, and ends of handrails shall be returned or shall terminate in newel posts or safety terminals:
Except, in the following cases: Stairways 1.12 meters (3 feet, 8 inches or less in width and stairway serving one
individual dwelling unit in Group A or B Occupancies may have one handrails, except that such stairway open on one
or both sides shall have handrails provided on the open side or sides; or stairways having less four than four risers
need not have handrails.

(9) Exterior Stairway Protection. All openings in the exterior wall below or within 3.00 meters (10 feet), measured
horizontally, of an exterior exit stairway serving a building over two stories in height shall be protected by a self-
closing fire assembly having a three-fourths-hour fire-resistive rating: Except, That openings may be unprotected
when two separated exterior stairways serve an exterior exit balcony.

(10) Stairway Construction-Interior. Interior stairways shall be constructed as specified in this Code. Where there is
enclosed usable space shall be protected on the enclosed side as required for one-hour fire-resistive construction.

(11) Stairway Construction-Exterior. Exterior stairways shall be of incombustible material: Except, That on Type III
buildings which do not exceed two stories in height, and are located in less fire-resistive Fire Zones, as well as on
Type I buildings, these may be of wood not less than 5 centimeters (2 inches) in nominal thickness. Exterior stairs
shall be protected as required for exterior walls due to location on property as specified in this Code. Exterior
stairways shall not project into an area where openings are required to be protected. Where there is enclosed usable
space under stairs the walls and soffits of the enclosed space shall be protected on the enclosed side as required for
one-hour fire-resistive construction.

(12) Stairway to Roof. In every building more than two stories in height, one stairway shall extend to the roof surface,
unless the roof has a slope greater than 1 in 3.

(13) Headroom. Every required stairway shall have a headroom clearance of not less than2.00 meters (6 feet, 8
inches). Such clearance shall be established by measuring vertically from a plane parallel and tangent to the stairway
tread nosing to the soft above all points.

(f) Ramps. A ramp conforming to the requirements of this Code may be used as an exit. The width of ramps shall be
as required for corridors.

(g) Horizontal Exit. If conforming to the provisions of this Code, a horizontal exit may be required exit. All openings in
a separation wall shall be protected by a fire assembly having a fire-resistive rating of not less than one hour. A
horizontal exit shall lead into a floor area having capacity for an occupant load not less than the occupant load served
by such exit. The capacity shall be determined by allowing 0.28 square meter (3 square feet) of net clear floor area
per ambulatory occupant and 1.86 square meters (20 square feet) per non-ambulatory occupant. The dispersal area
into which the horizontal exit leads shall be provided with exits as required by this Code.

(h) Exit Enclosures. Every interior stairway, ramp, or escalator shall be enclosed as specified in this Code: Except,
That in other than Group D Occupancies, an enclosure will not be required for a stairway, ramp, or escalator serving
only one adjacent floor and connected with corridors or stairways serving other floors. Stairs in Group A Occupancies
need not be enclosed.

(1) Enclosure walls shall be of not less than two-hour fire-resistive construction elsewhere. There shall be no
openings into exit enclosures except exit doorways and openings in exterior walls. All exit doors in an exit enclosure
shall appropriately be protected.

(2) Stairway and ramp enclosures shall include landings and parts of floors connecting stairway flights and shall also
include a corridor on the ground floor leading from the stairway to the exterior of the building. Enclosed corridors or
passageways are not required from unenclosed stairways.

(3) A stairway in an exit enclosure shall not continue below the grade level exit unless an approved barrier is
provided at the ground floor level to prevent persons from accidentally continuing into the basement.

(4) There shall be no enclosed usable space under stairways in an exit enclosure, nor shall the open space under
such stairways be used for any purpose.

(i) Smokeproof Enclosures. A smoke enclosure shall consist of a continuous stairway enclosed from the highest point
top the lowest point by walls of two-hour fire-resistive construction. In buildings five stories or more in height, one of
the required exits shall be smokeproof enclosure.

(1) Stairs in smokeproof enclosures shall be of incombustible construction.

(2) There shall be no openings in smokeproof enclosure, except exit doorways and openings in exterior walls. There
shall be no openings directly into the interior of the building. Access shall be through a vestibule with one wall at 50
per cent open to the exterior and having an exit door from the interior of the building and an exit door leading to the
smokeproof enclosure. In lieu of a vestibule, access may be by way of an open exterior balcony of incombustible
materials.

(3) The opening from the building to the vestibule or balcony shall be protected with a self-closing fire assembly
having one-hour fire-resistive rating. The opening from the vestibule or balcony to the stair tower shall be protected a
self-closing fire assembly having a one-hour fire-resistive rating.

(4) A smokeproof of enclosure shall exit into a public way or into an exit passageway leading to a public way. The exit
passageway shall be without other openings and shall have walls, floors, and ceilings of two-hour exit resistance.

(5) A stairway in a smokeproof enclosure shall not continue below the grade level exit unless an approved barrier is
provided at the ground floor level to prevent persons from accidentally continuing into the basement. chan robles
virtual law library

(j) Exit Outlets, Courts, and Passageways. Every exit shall discharge into a public way, exit court, or exit
passageway. Every exit court shall discharge into a public way or exit passageway. Passageways shall be without
openings other than required exits and shall have walls, floors, and ceilings of the building but shall be not less than
one-hour fire-resistive construction.

(1) Width. Every exit court and exit passageway shall be at least as wide as the required total width of the tributary
exits, such as required width being based on the occupant load served. The required width of exit courts or exit
passageways shall be unobstructed except as permitted in corridors. At any point where the width of an exit court is
reduced from any cause, the reduction in width shall be affected gradually by a guardrail at least 90 centimeters (3
feet) in height. The guardrail shall make an angle of not more than 30 degrees with the exit court.

(2) Slope. The slope of exit courts shall not exceed 1 in 10. The slope of exit passageways shall not exceed 1 in 8.

(3) Number of Exits. Every exit court shall be provided with exits as required by this Code.

(4) Openings. All openings into an exit court less than 3.00 meters (10 feet) wide shall be protected by fire
assemblies having a three-fourths-hour fire resistive rating: Except, That openings more than 3.00 meters (10 feet)
above the floor of the exit court may be unprotected.

Topic 2. ANTHROPOMETRICS
The study of the human body and its movements.

The study of the human body and its movement, often involving research into measurements relating to people. It
also involves collecting statistics or measurements relevant to the human body, called Anthropometric Data. The data
is usually displayed as a table of results, diagram or graph. Anthropometric data is used by designers and architects.
Topic 3. ERGONOMICS
The study of people and their relationship with the environment around them.

Measurements, also known as ‘anthropometric data’, are collected and applied to designs / products, to make them
more comfortable to use. The application of measurements to products, in order to improve their human use, is called
Ergonomics.

The diagram below shows, a table of anthropometric data (measurements) and how these are applied to the hand.

Ergonomics involves the study of people and their relationship with the environment around them. It often involves
research into the way people interact with products and the environment. Anthropometrical data is used to determine
the size, shape and/or form of a product, making it more comfortable for humans to use and easier to use. The
ergonomics of a product is usually displayed as a drawing such as the one below.
Whatever you are designing, it must fit the person it is design for (usually called the customer / client). Adults and
children come in all shapes and sizes. We all like or dislike colors, texture, sounds, tastes, flavors, forms and shapes.
Consequently, when we design products, factors such as these should be kept in mind.

When designing a toy there are a number of points to consider. Children learn from sound, sight, colour, movement
and other aspects. These all contribute to the ergonomics or anthropometrics of a design.

ERGONOMICS is mainly concerned with working out measurements, in order to improve the design of products.

For example: When designing a chair, one of the most important factors is comfort. This is linked closely to the
seating height. Usually the seating height is calculated by measuring the most comfortable height for the person who
is going to use the chair. If the chair is to be used by numerous people (such as in a Doctors waiting room), it is
important to measure the comfortable seating height of a range of people and then work out the average height. The
average seating height is then applied to the chair.
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ARC1402: ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN 2
Basic Residential Spaces
WEEK 5 & 6 MODULE (Part 1)
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ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN 2 CLUSTER
WEEK 5 & 6 MODULE (Part 1): Basic Residential Spaces
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BASIC RESIDENTIAL SPACES

1. Leisure Spaces
• Living room, gathering room, great
room, family room
• Places inside a house where people
gather to interact and take part in
various forms of entertainment, from
reading to computer work/games and
television viewing.

A living room. Image retrieved from

<https://www.decoist.com/small-white-living-rooms/?chrome=1>
WEEK 5 & 6 MODULE (Part 1): Basic Residential Spaces
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1. Leisure Spaces
Standard Furniture Sizes

Different table sizes for leisure spaces. Image retrieved from Mitton and Nystuen (2007).
WEEK 5 & 6 MODULE (Part 1): Basic Residential Spaces
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1. Leisure Spaces
Standard Furniture Sizes

Different chair and sofa sizes. Image retrieved from Mitton and Nystuen (2007).
WEEK 5 & 6 MODULE (Part 1): Basic Residential Spaces
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2. Kitchen
• Used for cooking and/or preparation of
food
• Consists of a “work triangle,” which is
an imaginary triangle linking each of the
work centers – sink, refrigerator, and
stove/range

A kitchen. Image retrieved from

<https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/decorating-ideas/tips/g2467/small-
kitchen-design-ideas/>
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2. Kitchen

Different setups for kitchen work triangle. Image retrieved from Mitton and Nystuen (2007).
WEEK 5 & 6 MODULE (Part 1): Basic Residential Spaces
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2. Kitchen
Fixtures/Appliances: Sinks

Kitchen sinks. Image retrieved from Mitton and Nystuen (2007).

WEEK 5 & 6 MODULE (Part 1): Basic Residential Spaces
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2. Kitchen
Fixtures/Appliances: Ranges

Ranges. Image retrieved from Mitton and Nystuen (2007).

WEEK 5 & 6 MODULE (Part 1): Basic Residential Spaces
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2. Kitchen
Fixtures/Appliances: Refrigerators

Refrigerator sizes. Image retrieved from Mitton and Nystuen (2007).

WEEK 5 & 6 MODULE (Part 1): Basic Residential Spaces
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3. Dining Area/Room
• An area where meals are often eaten
• Typically consists of a single table with
appropriate seating

A dining room. Image retrieved from

<https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/decorating-
ideas/g1730/decor-ideas-dining-room/>
WEEK 5 & 6 MODULE (Part 1): Basic Residential Spaces
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3. Dining Room
Furnitures

Dining tables and chairs. Image retrieved from Mitton and Nystuen (2007).
WEEK 5 & 6 MODULE (Part 1): Basic Residential Spaces
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4. Bedroom
• A room used for sleeping and
resting
• Also serves as a private
sanctuary or retreat and, as
such, it is a place to take
refuge from the world outside

A bedroom. Image retrieved from

<https://www.bobvila.com/slideshow/21-ways-to-make-a-small-bedroom-big-49838>
WEEK 5 & 6 MODULE (Part 1): Basic Residential Spaces
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ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN CLUSTER

4. Bedroom
Furnitures

Bed sizes. Image retrieved from Mitton and Nystuen (2007).

WEEK 5 & 6 MODULE (Part 1): Basic Residential Spaces
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5. Bathroom
• A room containing a toilet and sink and
typically also a bathtub or shower
• “Powder room” – a bathroom without a
bathtub or shower

A bathroom. Image retrieved from

< https://www.idealhome.co.uk/bathroom/bathroom-ideas/diy-bathroom-
ideas-on-a-budget-251558>
WEEK 5 & 6 MODULE (Part 1): Basic Residential Spaces
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ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN CLUSTER

5. Bathroom
Fixtures: Toilets/water closets, urinals, bidets

Toilet, urinal, and bidet sizes. Image retrieved from Mitton and Nystuen (2007).
WEEK 5 & 6 MODULE (Part 1): Basic Residential Spaces
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5. Bathroom
Fixtures: Sinks/lavatories

Lavatory types and sizes. Image retrieved from Mitton and Nystuen (2007).
WEEK 5 & 6 MODULE (Part 1): Basic Residential Spaces
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ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN CLUSTER

5. Bathroom
Fixtures: Bathtubs

Bathtub sizes. Image retrieved from Mitton and Nystuen (2007).

WEEK 5 & 6 MODULE (Part 1): Basic Residential Spaces
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Legal Considerations
National Building Code of the Philippines (P.D. 1096)
• 2.70 m – minimum floor to ceiling height of a room with natural ventilation
• 2.40 m – minimum floor to ceiling height of a room with artificial ventilation (if multi-story, first
floor must be at least 2.70 m; second floor must be at least 2.40 m; third floor and up, 2.10 m.)
• 6 square meters – minimum room size for human habitation, with a least a dimension of 2 m.
• 3 square meters – minimum room size for kitchen, with a least a dimension of 1.50 m.
• 1.20 square meters – minimum room size for T&B, with a least a dimension of 0.90 m.

Batasang Pambansa Bilang 344 (B.P. 344)

• 1.70 m X 1.80 m – minimum area for accessible water closet stalls
WEEK 5 & 6 MODULE (Part 1): Basic Residential Spaces
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References
• Department of Public Works and Highways. (2005). The 2004 Revised IRR of PD No. 1096.
http://www.iibh.org/kijun/pdf/Philippines_02_IRR_of_NBC_of_the_Philippines.pdf
• Mitton, M. & Nystuen, C. (2007). Residential Interior Design: A Guide to Planning Spaces.
John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
• National Council on Disability Affairs. (2008). Batas Pambansa Bilang 344 (Accessibility Law)
and its Original and Amended Implementing Rules and Regulations. Quezon City, Philippines:
NCDA. https://www.dpwh.gov.ph/dpwh/references/laws_codes_orders/bpb344
 ________________________________________
ARC1402: ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN 2
Programming, Design Concept, and Design Philosophy
WEEK 5 & 6 MODULE (Part 2)
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ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN 2 CLUSTER
WEEK 5 & 6 MODULE (Part 2): Programming, Design Concept, and Design Philosophy
ARC1402: ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN 2
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ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN CLUSTER

1. Architectural Programming
• Identification of a project’s
requirements, constraints, limitations,
and conditions
• A process leading to the statement of
an architectural problem and the
requirements to be met in offering a
solution
• Can be in written lists, problem
statements, and basic diagrams

Image retrieved from

<https://www.slideshare.net/ymahgoub/fue-theory-4-lecture-5-the-formulation-
and-analysis-of-architectural-design-program-and-brief>
WEEK 5 & 6 MODULE (Part 2): Programming, Design Concept, and Design Philosophy
ARC1402: ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN 2
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ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN CLUSTER

1. Architectural Programming

Sample architectural programming. Image retrieved from Mitton and Nystuen (2007).
WEEK 5 & 6 MODULE (Part 2): Programming, Design Concept, and Design Philosophy
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ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN CLUSTER

1. Architectural Programming
• Diagrams are used to bring
quantitative and qualitative information
together with visual information so that
the designer can understand and
synthesize it more easily.
• “Bubble diagram” – visually represents
project adjacency requirements

Sample bubble diagram. Image retrieved from

<https://www.lcfisher-architect.com/process>
WEEK 5 & 6 MODULE (Part 2): Programming, Design Concept, and Design Philosophy
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2. Design Considerations
• Factors or criteria which a designer takes into account in the development of a
project
• Examples: budget, special client requirements, existing laws/ordinances, etc.

3. Design Strategy
• Approach in the development of the design
• Skillful method in providing a solution to an architectural problem and/or address
major design considerations
WEEK 5 & 6 MODULE (Part 2): Programming, Design Concept, and Design Philosophy
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4. Design Philosophy
• Overall belief and/or perception of architecture in general
• Your expression as a designer which encapsulates how you experience design and how it
should manifest

Frank Gehry’s design philosophy as manifested in one of his works, the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, Spain. Image retrieved from
<https://blog.proto.io/10-of-the-best-design-philosophies-of-all-time/>
WEEK 5 & 6 MODULE (Part 2): Programming, Design Concept, and Design Philosophy
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5. Design Concept
• Design concept implies an idea, or
range of ideas,
a development approach, a
guiding concept and a design intent.
• Main thought of a project conveying its
features, inspiration, strategies,
reasons, intentions, among others
• Can be expressed as a written
statement, sketches with annotations,
or a combination of both.

Sample design concept presented through sketches.

Image retrieved from
<https://www.pinterest.ph/pin/320459329705381977/>
WEEK 5 & 6 MODULE (Part 2): Programming, Design Concept, and Design Philosophy
ARC1402: ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN 2
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ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN CLUSTER

5. Design Concept

Sample design concept presented through sketches. Image retrieved from

<https://archidialog.com/tag/eliinbars-sketch-book-2012/page/4>
WEEK 5 & 6 MODULE (Part 2): Programming, Design Concept, and Design Philosophy
ARC1402: ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN 2
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References
• Mitton, M. & Nystuen, C. (2007). Residential Interior Design: A Guide to Planning
Spaces. John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
• RSHP Architect. (2020, September 23). Concept architectural design.
https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Concept_architectural_design
 DESIGN AND PLANNING
STANDARDS FOR INTERIOR
AND EXTERIOR SPACES
BASED ON BUILDING LAWS
ARC 1402 – Architectural Design 2
Week 7 Lecture
The following are excerpts of design planning
standards from the National Building Code of
the Philippines which are helpful in obtaining
design solutions for the Midterm Major Plate.
PRESIDENTIAL DECREE 1096
NATIONAL BUILDING CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES

SECTION 701. Occupancy Classified

(a) Buildings proposed for construction shall be
identified according to their use or the character of its
occupancy and shall be classified as follows:
(1) Group A – Residential Dwellings
Group A Occupancies shall be dwellings.

https://www.sothebysrealty.com/eng/sales/phl https://www.pinoyhouseplans.com/
(2) Group B – Residentials, Hotels and Apartments
Group B Occupancies shall be multiple dwelling units
including boarding or lodging houses, hotels,
apartment buildings, row houses, convents,
monasteries and other similar building each of which
accommodates more than 10 persons.

https://www.sothebysrealty.com/eng/sales/phl https://www.pinterest.ph/pin/769623023794420395/
 (3) Group C – Education
and Recreation
https://en.wikipedia.org/
Group C Occupancies
shall be buildings used for
school or day-care
purposes, involving
assemblage for instruction,
education, or recreation,
and not classified in Group
I or in Division 1 and 2 or
Group H Occupancies.
https://ranktechnology.blogspot.com/
(4) Group D – Institutional
Group D Occupancies shall include:
Division 1 – Mental hospitals, mental sanitaria, jails,
prisons, reformatories, and buildings were personal
liberties of inmates are similarly restrained.
Division 2 – Nurseries for full-time care of children under
kindergarten age, hospitals, sanitaria, nursing homes
with non-ambulatory patients, and similar buildings each
accommodating more than five persons.
Division 3 – Nursing homes for ambulatory patients,
homes for children of kindergarten age or over, each
accommodating more than five persons: Provided, that
Group D Occupancies shall not include buildings used
only for private or family group dwelling purposes.
https://www.rappler.com/nation/returnees-spend-christmas-new- https://twitter.com/crlsmon/status/1014111276484608002
year-prison-months-after-gcta-controversy

https://cnnphilippines.com/news/2020/3/24/st-lukes-coronavirus- https://today.mims.com/comparing-the-cuban-and-philippine-hea
patients.html lth-care-systems
(5) Group E – Business and Mercantile
Group E Occupancies shall include:
Division 1 – Gasoline filling and service stations, storage
garages and boat storage structures where no work is
done except exchange of parts and maintenance requiring
no open flame, welding, or the use of highly flammable
liquids.
Division 2 – Wholesale and retail stores, office buildings,
drinking and dining establishments having an occupant
load of less than one hundred persons, printing plants,
police and fire stations, factories and workshops using not
highly flammable or combustible materials and paint stores
without bulk handlings.
Division 3 – Aircraft hangars and open parking garages
where no repair work is done except exchange of parts
and maintenance requiring no open flame, welding or the
use of highly flammable liquids.
https://www.dreamstime.com/teleperformance-building-facad https://theculturetrip.com/asia/philippines/articles/the-10-best-
e-pasay-philippines-ph-july-company-specializes-business-pr malls-in-manila-philippines/
ocess-outsourcing-image180764655

https://pana.com.ph/directories/golden-arches-development-c https://inqmobility.com/2020/10/22/corporate-social-responsibility/p
orp-mcdonalds/ etron-utilizes-900-of-its-stations-for-ingat-angat-campaign/
 (6) Group F – Industrial
Group F Occupancies shall include: ice plants, power
plants, pumping plants, cold storage, and creameries,
factories and workshops using incombustible and
non-explosive materials, and storage and sales rooms
for incombustible and non-explosive materials.

https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/Local-Business/Alpine-Ice-Plant-a https://seisanzai-japan.com/article/p381/
nd-Cold-Storage-Corp-578671238835654/
(7) Group G – Storage and Hazardous
Groups G Occupancies shall include:
Division 1 – Storage and handling of hazardous and
highly flammable material.
Division 2 – Storage and handling of flammable
materials, dry cleaning plants using flammable liquids;
paint stores with bulk handling, paint shops and spray
painting rooms.
Division 3 – Wood working establishments, planning
mills and box factories, shops, factories where loose
combustible fibers or dust are manufactured,
processed or generated; warehouses where highly
combustible materials is stored.
Division 4 – Repair garages.
Division 5 – Aircrafts repair hangars
 https://asiglobal.net/portfolio/ https://www.pfonline.com/articles/best-practices-for-i
ndustrial-paint-storage

http://www.hazardexonthenet.net/article/167533/Better-things-in-s https://www.mapfrere.com/reaseguro/es/images/saf
tore--a-guide-to-storing-hazardous-chemicals-and-petrochemicals ety-guide-woodworking_tcm636-80884.pdf
.aspx
(8) Group H – Assembly Other Than
Group I
Group H Occupancies shall include:
Division 1 – Any assembly building
with a stage and an occupant load of
less than 1000 in the building. Division
2 – Any assembly building without
stage and having an occupant load of
300 or more in the building.
https://www.nickersoncorp.com/2018/11/5-ways-t
Division 3 – Any assembly building o-use-your-high-school-auditorium/

without a stage and having an

occupant load of less than 300 in the
building.
Division 4 – Stadia, reviewing stands,
amusement park structures not
included within Group I or in Division 1,
2, and 3 of this Group. https://www.facebook.com/975041185927663
(9) Group I – Assembly Occupant Load 1000 or More
Group I Occupancies shall be any assembly building
with a stage and an occupant load of 1000 or more in
the building.
(10) Group J – Accessory
Group J Occupancies shall include:
Division 1 – Private garage, carports, sheds and
agricultural buildings.
Division 2 – Fences over 1.80 meters high, tanks and
towers.

https://www.thestadiumbusiness.com/2019/07/04/king-ab https://www.metalarchitecture.com/articles/modernizing-th
dullah-sports-stadium-stage-major-music-festival/ e-agricultural-building
SECTION 708. Minimum Requirements for Group A
Dwellings

(a) Dwelling Location and Lot Occupancy

The dwelling shall occupy not more than ninety
percent of a corner lot and eighty percent of an
inside lot, and subject to the provisions on
Easements of Light and View of the Civil Code of
Philippines, shall be at least 2 meters from the
property line.
(b) Light and Ventilation
Every dwelling shall be so constructed and arranged
as to provide adequate light and ventilation as
provided under Section 805 to Section 811, of this
Code.
(c) Sanitation
Every dwelling shall be provided with at least one
sanitary toilet and adequate washing and drainage
facilities.

http://www.home-designing.com/modern-minimalist-bathro
om-interior-design-decor-photos
(d) Foundation
Footings shall be of sufficient size and strength to
support the load of the dwelling and shall be at least
250 millimeters thick and 600 millimeters below the
surface of the ground.
(e) Post
The dimensions of wooden posts shall be those
found in Table 708-A: Dimensions of Wooden Posts
(Annex B-1). Each post shall be anchored to such
footing by straps and bolts of adequate size.
(f) Floor
The live load of the first floor shall be at least 200
kilograms per square meter and for the second floor,
at least 150 kilograms per square meter.
(g) Roof
The wind load for roofs shall be at least 120
kilograms per square meter for vertical projection.
(h) Stairs
Stairs shall be at least 750 millimeters in clear width,
with a rise of 200 millimeters and a minimum run of
200 millimeters.
(i) Entrance and Exit
There shall be at least one entrance and another one
for exit.
(j) Electrical Requirements
All electrical installation shall conform to the
requirements of the Philippine Electrical Code.
(k) Mechanical Requirements
Mechanical systems and/or equipment installation
shall be subject to the requirement of the Philippine
Mechanical Engineering Code.
SECTION 801. General Requirements of Light and
Ventilation

(a) Subject to the provisions of the Civil Code of the

Philippines on Easements of Light and View, and to
the provisions of this part of the Code, every building
shall be designed, constructed, and equipped to
provide adequate light and ventilation.
(b) All buildings shall face a street or public alley or a
private street which has been duly approved.

https://seattle.curbed.com/2019/9/30/20884215/fremont-auditorium-cleaner
s-empty-space-history
(c) No building shall be altered nor arranged so as to
reduce the size of any room or the relative area of
windows to less than that provided for buildings
under this Code, or to create an additional room,
unless such additional room conforms to the
requirements of this Code.
(d) No building shall be enlarged so that the dimensions
of the required court or yard would be less than that
prescribed for such building.

https://www.brickunderground.com/improve/how-to-read-an-alteration-agree
ment-what-to-look-out-for
TYPES OF LOTS AND THE
CORRESPONDING PERCENTAGE OF
OPEN SPACE
(Depending on Use or Occupancy)
SECTION 804. Sizes and Dimensions of Courts

1. Minimum sizes of courts and yards and their least

dimensions shall be governed by the use, type of
construction, and height of the building as provided
hereunder, provided that the minimum horizontal
dimension of said courts and yards shall be not less
than 2.00 meters. All inner courts shall be connected
to a street or yard, either by a passageway with a
minimum width of 1.20 meters or by a door through a
room or rooms.
2. The required open space shall be located totally or
distributed anywhere within the lot in such a manner
as to provide maximum light and ventilation into the
building.
3. YARD – the required open space left between the
outermost face of the building/structure and the
property lines, e.g., front, rear, right and left side
yards. The width of the yard is the setback.

Minimum Setbacks for Residential Buildings/

Structures
Type of Residential Use/Occupancy

R-2 R-3
R-4
YARD
R-1 (individual R-5****
(meters) Basic Maximum Basic Maximum lot/unit) (meters)
(meters) (meters) (meters) (meters) (meters)

Front 4.50 3.00 8.00* 3.00 8.00* 4.50 6.00

2.00 2.00
Side 2.00 2.00** 2.00* *** 3.00
(optional) (optional)

Rear 2.00 2.00 2.00* *** 2.00 2.00 3.00

SECTION 805. Ceiling Heights

(a) Habitable rooms provided with artificial ventilation

shall have ceiling heights not less than 2.40 meters
measured from the floor to the ceiling; Provided that
for buildings of more than one storey, the minimum
ceiling height of the first storey shall be 2.70 meters
and that for the second storey 2.40 meters and
succeeding storeys shall have an unobstructed
typical head-room clearance of not less than 2.10
meters above the finished floor. Above stated rooms
with a natural ventilation shall have ceiling heights
not less than 2.70 meters.
(b) Mezzanine floors shall have a clear ceiling height not
less than 1.80 meters above and below it.
https://aduhdblog.files.wordpress.com/2018/08/better-apartments-design-st
andards.pdf

http://www.abodesdrawing.com/blogs/blog_03_complying_the_building_cod
e.html#gsc.tab=0
SECTION 806. Size and Dimension of Rooms

Minimum sizes of rooms and their least horizontal

dimensions shall be as follows:
1. Rooms for Human Habitations – 6.00 square meters
with a least dimension of 2.00 meters;

http://www.abodesdrawing.com/blogs/blog_03_complying_the_building_cod
e.html#gsc.tab=0
2. Kitchens – 3.0 square meters with a least dimension
of 1.50 meters;
3. Bath and toilet – 1.20 square meters with a least
dimension of 0.90 meter.

http://www.abodesdrawing.com/blogs/blog_03_co
mplying_the_building_code.html#gsc.tab=0

http://www.abodesdrawing.com/blogs/blog_03_co
mplying_the_building_code.html#gsc.tab=0
SECTION 807. Air Space Requirements in
Determining the Size of Rooms

Minimum air space shall be provided as follows:

1. School Rooms – 3.00 cubic meters with 1.00 square
meter of floor area per person;
2. Workshops, Factories, and Offices – 12.00 cubic
meters of air space per person;
3. Habitable rooms – 14.00 cubic meters of air space
per person.
SECTION 808. Window Openings

(1) Rooms intended for any use, not provided with

artificial ventilation system, shall be provided with a
window or windows with a total free area of openings
equal to at least 10% of the floor area of the room,
provided that such opening shall be not less than
1.00 sq. meter. However, toilet and bath rooms,
laundry rooms and similar rooms shall be provided
with window or windows with an area not less than
1/20 of the floor area of such rooms, provided that
such opening shall not be less than 240 sq.
millimeters. Such window or windows shall open
directly to a court, yard, public street or alley, or open
watercourse.
http://www.abodesdrawing.com/blogs/blog_03_complying_the_buildin
g_code.html#gsc.tab=0
(2) Required windows may open into a roofed porch
where the porch:
a. Abuts a court, yard, public street or alley, or open
watercourse and other public open spaces;
b. Has a ceiling height of not less than 2.70 meters;
c. Has one of the longer sides at least 65% open
and unobstructed.
(3) Eaves, canopies, awnings (or media agua) over
required windows shall not be less than 750
millimeters from the side and rear property lines.
(4) There shall absolutely be no openings
on/at/within/through all types of abutments (such as
firewalls) erected along property lines except for
permitted vent wells. This Rule strictly applies to all
new and existing developments.
https://quizlet.com/418473245/national-building-code-of-the-philippines
-pd-1096-flash-cards/
(5) In locating window openings it should be borne in
mind that in cases of extreme emergencies windows
must serve as emergency egress to vacate the
premises or access for rescue operations. Such
windows shall meet the following requirements:
a. They can be opened from the inside without the
use of any tools;
b. The minimum clear opening shall have a width
not less than 820 millimeters and a height of 1
meter;
c. The bottom of the opening should not be more
than 820 millimeters from the floor;
d. Where storm shutters, screens or iron grilles are
used, these shall be provided with quick opening
mechanism so that they can be readily opened
from the inside for emergency egress and shall
be so designed that when opened they will not
drop to the ground;
e. All areas immediately outside a fire exit
window/grille must be free of obstacles and must
lead to a direct access down into the ground or
street level.
References/Sources:

National Building Code of the Philippines retrieved from:

https://www.dpwh.gov.ph/dpwh/references/laws_codes_orders/national_law

National Building Code of the Philippines retrieved from:

http://philarchitecturenotes.weebly.com/rule-8-light-and-ventilation.html

Implementing Rules and Regulations of the National Building Code of the Philippines retrieved
from:
https://www.dpwh.gov.ph/dpwh/references/laws_codes_orders/national_law

Implementing Rules and Regulations of the National Building Code of the Philippines retrieved
from:
http://www.iibh.org/kijun/pdf/Philippines_02_IRR_of_NBC_of_the_Philippines.pdf

Implementing Rules and Regulations of the National Building Code of the Philippines retrieved
from:
https://www.architectureboard.ph/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/1.12-PD1096_-2004revIRR_PRB
oA-unofcl-versnw08annotns.pdf

Section 807 Air Space Requirements retrieved from:

https://www.coursehero.com/file/p1766d3/SECTION-807-Air-Space-Requirements-in-Determinin
g-the-Size-of-Rooms-1-Minimum/

Rule 7 and 8 National Building Code of the Philippines retrieved from:

https://quizlet.com/475097966/rule-8-flash-cards/
 Far Eastern University
JULY 2020
Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts
___________________________________________________________________________

WEEK 7.
DESIGN AND PLANNING STANDARDS FOR INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR SPACES BASED ON BUILDING LAWS

The following are excerpts of design planning standards from the National Building Code of the Philippines which are
helpful in obtaining design solutions for the Midterm Major Plate.

PRESIDENTIAL DECREE 1096

NATIONAL BUILDING CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES

SECTION 701. Occupancy Classified

(a) Buildings proposed for construction shall be identified according to their use or the character of its occupancy and
shall be classified as follows:
(1) Group A – Residential Dwellings
Group A Occupancies shall be dwellings.
(2) Group B – Residentials, Hotels and Apartments
Group B Occupancies shall be multiple dwelling units including boarding or lodging houses, hotels, apartment
buildings, row houses, convents, monasteries and other similar building each of which accommodates more than
10 persons.
(3) Group C – Education and Recreation
Group C Occupancies shall be buildings used for school or day-care purposes, involving assemblage for instruction,
education, or recreation, and not classified in Group I or in Division 1 and 2 or Group H Occupancies.
(4) Group D – Institutional
Group D Occupancies shall include:
Division 1 – Mental hospitals, mental sanitaria, jails, prisons, reformatories, and buildings were personal
liberties of inmates are similarly restrained.
Division 2 – Nurseries for full-time care of children under kindergarten age, hospitals, sanitaria, nursing homes
with non-ambulatory patients, and similar buildings each accommodating more than five persons.
Division 3 – Nursing homes for ambulatory patients, homes for children of kindergarten age or over, each
accommodating more than five persons: Provided, that Group D Occupancies shall not include buildings used
only for private or family group dwelling purposes.
(5) Group E – Business and Mercantile
Group E Occupancies shall include:
Division 1 – Gasoline filling and service stations, storage garages and boat storage structures where no work
is done except exchange of parts and maintenance requiring no open flame, welding, or the use of highly
flammable liquids.
Division 2 – Wholesale and retail stores, office buildings, drinking and dining establishments having an
occupant load of less than one hundred persons, printing plants, police and fire stations, factories and
workshops using not highly flammable or combustible materials and paint stores without bulk handlings.
Division 3 – Aircraft hangars and open parking garages where no repair work is done except exchange of
parts and maintenance requiring no open flame, welding or the use of highly flammable liquids.
(6) Group F – Industrial
Group F Occupancies shall include: ice plants, power plants, pumping plants, cold storage, and creameries,
factories and workshops using incombustible and non-explosive materials, and storage and sales rooms for
incombustible and non-explosive materials.
(7) Group G – Storage and Hazardous
Groups G Occupancies shall include:
Division 1 – Storage and handling of hazardous and highly flammable material.
 Far Eastern University
JULY 2020
Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts
___________________________________________________________________________

Division 2 – Storage and handling of flammable materials, dry cleaning plants using flammable liquids; paint
stores with bulk handling, paint shops and spray painting rooms.
Division 3 – Wood working establishments, planning mills and box factories, shops, factories where loose
combustible fibers or dust are manufactured, processed or generated; warehouses where highly combustible
materials is stored.
Division 4 – Repair garages.
Division 5 – Aircrafts repair hangars.
(8) Group H – Assembly Other Than Group I
Group H Occupancies shall include:
Division 1 – Any assembly building with a stage and an occupant load of less than 1000 in the building.
Division 2 – Any assembly building without stage and having an occupant load of 300 or more in the building.
Division 3 – Any assembly building without a stage and having an occupant load of less than 300 in the
building.
Division 4 – Stadia, reviewing stands, amusement park structures not included within Group I or in Division 1,
2, and 3 of this Group.
(9) Group I – Assembly Occupant Load 1000 or More
Group I Occupancies shall be any assembly building with a stage and an occupant load of 1000 or more in the
building.
(10) Group J – Accessory
Group J Occupancies shall include:
Division 1 – Private garage, carports, sheds and agricultural buildings.
Division 2 – Fences over 1.80 meters high, tanks and towers.
(b) Other subgroupings or divisions within Groups A to J may be determined by the Secretary. Any other occupancy
not mentioned specifically in this Section, or about which there is any question, shall be included in the Group which it
most nearly resembles based on the existing or proposed life and fire hazard.

SECTION 708. Minimum Requirements for Group A Dwellings

(a) Dwelling Location and Lot Occupancy

The dwelling shall occupy not more than ninety percent of a corner lot and eighty percent of an inside lot, and
subject to the provisions on Easements of Light and View of the Civil Code of Philippines, shall be at least 2
meters from the property line.
(b) Light and Ventilation
Every dwelling shall be so constructed and arranged as to provide adequate light and ventilation as provided
under Section 805 to Section 811, of this Code.
(c) Sanitation
Every dwelling shall be provided with at least one sanitary toilet and adequate washing and drainage facilities.
(d) Foundation
Footings shall be of sufficient size and strength to support the load of the dwelling and shall be at least 250
millimeters thick and 600 millimeters below the surface of the ground.
(e) Post
The dimensions of wooden posts shall be those found in Table 708-A: Dimensions of Wooden Posts (Annex
B-1). Each post shall be anchored to such footing by straps and bolts of adequate size.
(f) Floor
The live load of the first floor shall be at least 200 kilograms per square meter and for the second floor, at
least 150 kilograms per square meter.
(g) Roof
The wind load for roofs shall be at least 120 kilograms per square meter for vertical projection.
 Far Eastern University
JULY 2020
Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts
___________________________________________________________________________

(h) Stairs
Stairs shall be at least 750 millimeters in clear width, with a rise of 200 millimeters and a minimum run of 200
millimeters.
(i) Entrance and Exit
There shall be at least one entrance and another one for exit.
(j) Electrical Requirements
All electrical installation shall conform to the requirements of the Philippine Electrical Code.
(k) Mechanical Requirements
Mechanical systems and/or equipment installation shall be subject to the requirement of the Philippine
Mechanical Engineering Code.

SECTION 801. General Requirements of Light and Ventilation

(a) Subject to the provisions of the Civil Code of the Philippines on Easements of Light and View, and to the
provisions of this part of the Code, every building shall be designed, constructed, and equipped to provide
adequate light and ventilation.
(b) All buildings shall face a street or public alley or a private street which has been duly approved.
(c) No building shall be altered nor arranged so as to reduce the size of any room or the relative area of
windows to less than that provided for buildings under this Code, or to create an additional room, unless
such additional room conforms to the requirements of this Code.
(d) No building shall be enlarged so that the dimensions of the required court or yard would be less than that
prescribed for such building.
 Far Eastern University
JULY 2020
Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts
___________________________________________________________________________

TYPES OF LOTS
AND THE CORRESPONDINGPERCENTAGE OF OPEN SPACE
(Depending on Use or Occupancy)
 Far Eastern University
JULY 2020
Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts
___________________________________________________________________________

SECTION 804. Sizes and Dimensions of Courts

1. Minimum sizes of courts and yards and their least dimensions shall be governed by the use, type of
construction, and height of the building as provided hereunder, provided that the minimum horizontal
dimension of said courts and yards shall be not less than 2.00 meters. All inner courts shall be connected to
a street or yard, either by a passageway with a minimum width of 1.20 meters or by a door through a room
or rooms.
2. The required open space shall be located totally or distributed anywhere within the lot in such a manner as
to provide maximum light and ventilation into the building. (Figures VIII.12. through VIII.15.)
3. YARD – the required open space left between the outermost face of the building/structure and the property
lines, e.g., front, rear, right and left side yards. The width of the yard is the setback.

Minimum Setbacks for Residential Buildings/Structures

Type of Residential Use/Occupancy

R-2 R-3 R-4
YARD R-1 (individual R-5****
Basic Maximum Basic Maximum
(meters) lot/unit) (meters)
(meters) (meters) (meters) (meters)
(meters)
Front 4.50 3.00 8.00* 3.00 8.00* 4.50 6.00
2.00 2.00
Side 2.00 2.00** 2.00* *** 3.00
(optional) (optional)
Rear 2.00 2.00 2.00* *** 2.00 2.00 3.00
Notes:
(a) The setback requirements in Table VIII.2. above are for newly-developed subdivisions.
(b) * Total setback only at grade (or natural ground) level, i.e., 3.00 meters + 5.00 meters = 8.00 meters (to
accommodate part of the minimum parking requirement outside the designated area for the front yard). The
second and upper floors and mezzanine level shall thereafter comply with the minimum 3.00 meters setback
unless otherwise provided under the Code.
(c) ** Setback required for only one (1) side. Setbacks on two sides shall be optional.
(d) *** Abutments on two sides and rear property lines may be allowed with conditions as enumerated under
Section 804, Subsection 10 of this Rule.
(e) **** Mixed-Use Buildings/Structures in R-5 lots shall be considered a commercial use or occupancy if a
substantial percentage, i.e., 55% of the Gross Floor Area (GFA) is commercial.
(f) In cases where yards/setbacks are impossible to attain or where frontage and depth of lots are similar to
that of Open Market or Medium Cost Housing Projects, abutments on the sides and rear property lines may
be allowed and 1.50 meters front yard is left open as transition area.

SECTION 805. Ceiling Heights

(a) Habitable rooms provided with artificial ventilation shall have ceiling heights not less than 2.40 meters
measured from the floor to the ceiling; Provided that for buildings of more than onestorey, the minimum
ceiling height of the first storey shall be 2.70 meters and that for the second storey 2.40 meters and
succeeding storeys shall have an unobstructed typical head-room clearance of not less than 2.10 meters
above the finished floor. Above stated rooms with a natural ventilation shall have ceiling heights not less
than 2.70 meters.
(b) Mezzanine floors shall have a clear ceiling height not less than 1.80 meters above and below it.
 Far Eastern University
JULY 2020
Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts
___________________________________________________________________________

SECTION 806. Size and Dimension of Rooms

(a) Minimum sizes of rooms and their least horizontal dimensions shall be as follows:
1. Rooms for Human Habitations – 6.00 square meters with a least dimension of 2.00 meters;
2. Kitchens – 3.0 square meters with a least dimension of 1.50 meters;
3. Bath and toilet – 1.20 square meters with a least dimension of 0.90 meter.

SECTION 807. Air Space Requirements in Determining the Size of Rooms

(a) Minimum air space shall be provided as follows:

1. School Rooms – 3.00 cubic meters with 1.00 square meter of floor area per person;
2. Workshops, Factories, and Offices – 12.00 cubic meters of air space per person;
3. Habitable rooms – 14.00 cubic meters of air space per person.

SECTION 808. Window Openings

1. Rooms intended for any use, not provided with artificial ventilation system, shall be provided with a window
or windows with a total free area of openings equal to at least 10% of the floor area of the room, provided
that such opening shall be not less than 1.00 sq. meter. However, toilet and bath rooms, laundry rooms and
similar rooms shall be provided with window or windows with an area not less than 1/20 of the floor area of
such rooms, provided that such opening shall not be less than 240 sq. millimeters. Such window or windows
shall open directly to a court, yard, public street or alley, or open watercourse.
2. Required windows may open into a roofed porch where the porch:
a. Abuts a court, yard, public street or alley, or open watercourse and other public open spaces;
b. Has a ceiling height of not less than 2.70 meters;
c. c. Has one of the longer sides at least 65% open and unobstructed.
3. Eaves, canopies, awnings (or media agua) over required windows shall not be less than 750 millimeters
from the side and rear property lines.
4. There shall absolutely be no openings on/at/within/through all types of abutments (such as firewalls) erected
along property lines except for permitted vent wells. This Rule strictly applies to all new and existing
developments.
5. In locating window openings it should be borne in mind that in cases of extreme emergencies windows must
serve as emergency egress to vacate the premises or access for rescue operations. Such windows shall
meet the following requirements:
a. They can be opened from the inside without the use of any tools;
b. The minimum clear opening shall have a width not less than 820 millimeters and a height of 1 meter;
c. The bottom of the opening should not be more than 820 millimeters from the floor;
d. Where storm shutters, screens or iron grilles are used, these shall be provided with quick opening
mechanism so that they can be readily opened from the inside for emergency egress and shall be so
designed that when opened they will not drop to the ground;
e. All areas immediately outside a fire exit window/grille must be free of obstacles and must lead to a
direct access down into the ground or street level.
 Far Eastern University

74
JULY 2020
Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts
Guidelines on Lots. . . .
___________________________________________________________________________

Minimum TOSL (Total

E. TOTAL OPEN Open Space
SPACE within Lot) Requirements
REQUIREMENTS ON LOTSbyBY
LotUSE/OCCUPANCY,
Type/Location TYPE/LOCATION
AND SUGGESTED MINIMUM LOT SIZES, LOT DIMENSIONS & TYPES BY USE/OCCUPANCY

Table VIII.G.6. Minimum TOSL Requirements by Lot Type/Location

Note: Higher Percentages (%) may apply for lots with Minimum Total Lot Area (TLA).
MINIMUM MINIMUM
PERCENTAGE OF OPEN SPACE PERCENTAGE OF OPEN SPACE
BY OCCUPANCY TYPE** BY OCCUPANCY TYPE**
(for Proposed Developments (for Proposed Developments
without Firewalls or Abutments) with Permitted Firewalls or Allowed
LOT TYPE/ Abutments)
LOCA- A & B (Residential H-1, H-2, A&B H-1, H-2,
or Institution-al) H-4 and I All Other (Residential or H-4 and I All Other
TION* & C, D, E-2 (Cultural) Uses/ Institution-al) (Cultural) and Uses/
and H and E-1 and Occu- & C, D, E-1 and E-3 Occu-
(Institutional) E-3 pancy E-2 (Transpor- pancy
(Transport- and H tation/Utility)
ation/ (Institutional)
Utility)

Interior or 40% 40% * 30% #

20% 15%
Rear Lot (Lot (for R-1 use or (for all (for all cultural)
located in the occupancy only), classes of
interior of a cultural use 25%**
block made 30% or (for R-2)
accessible (for R-2 use or occupancy)
from a public occupancy only) 40% ##
street or and and 20%*** (for all transpor-
alley by (for other tation/ utility/
means of a 30% 50% residential) services)
private (for other (for all
access residential uses or classes of
road); see occupancy); transportatio
Figure VIII.2. n/ utility use
and or
occupancy) 40%****
50% (for all
(for all classes of institutional)
institutional uses
or occupancy)
Notes :

* with absolutely no firewalls/abutments allowed for R-1 use.

** with firewall/abutment allowed on only one (1) side property line and absolutely no firewall/abutment at
front and rear property lines for R-2 use.

*** with firewalls/abutments allowed on two (2) side property lines only or on one (1) side property line and
the rear property line and absolutely no firewall/abutment at front property lines for R-3 and R-5 uses;
and with firewalls/ abutments allowed on two (2) side property lines only and absolutely no
firewall/abutment at the front and rear property lines for R-4 use.

**** with firewalls/abutments for all classes of institutional uses.

# with firewall/abutment allowed on only one (1) side for all classes of cultural uses.

## with firewalls/abutments allowed on two (2) sides only or on one (1) side and rear boundary for all
classes of transportation/utility uses.

+ Refer to Rule VIII - Figures VIII.2. through VIII.8. for lot type/location.

++ Refer to Rule VII for occupancy grouping.

 Far Eastern University
JULY 2020
Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts
___________________________________________________________________________
Guidelines on Lots. . . .

Continuation of Table VIII.G.6. . . .

MINIMUM MINIMUM
PERCENTAGE OF OPEN SPACE PERCENTAGE OF OPEN SPACE
BY OCCUPANCY TYPE** BY OCCUPANCY TYPE**
(for Proposed Developments (for Proposed Developments
LOT TYPE/ without Firewalls or Abutments) with Permitted Firewalls or Allowed
Abutments)
LOCA- H-1, H-2, A&B H-1, H-2,
A&B H-4 and I All (Residential or H-4 and I All Other
TION* (Residential or (Cultural) and Other Institutional) (Cultural) and Uses/
Institutional) E-1 and Uses/ & C, D, E-2 E-1 and Occu-
& C, D, E-2 E-3 Occu- and H E-3 pancy
and H (Transport- pancy (Institutional) (Transport-
(Institutional) ation/Utility/Ser ation/Utility/Ser
vices) vices)

Inside Lot 50% 40% * 30% #

25% 15%
otherwise referred (for R-1 use or (for all classes (for all cultural)
to as a Regular Lot occupancy of cultural use
(Non – corner or only), or occupancy)
single frontage lot); 30%**
see Figure VIII.3. 40% and (for R-2)
(for R-2 use or
occupancy 50% 40% ##
only) (for all classes (for all
and of transport- 20%*** transportation/
ation/utility use (for other utility/ services)
30% or occupancy) residential)
(for other
residential uses
or occupancy);
and
50% 40%****
(for all classes (for all
of institutional institutional)
uses or
occupancy)

Corner Lot+ or 30% 35% * 30% #

20% 10%
Through (for R-1 and all (for all classes (for all cultural)
Lot; see Figures other of cultural use 25%**
VIII.4. and VIII.5. residential uses or occupancy) (for R-2)
or occupancy); and 20%***
+Note: For corner and 40% (for other
lots, the largest 40% (for all residential)
setback (for all classes classes of 30% ##
requirement shall of institutional transport- 30%**** (for all
apply to the two (2) uses or ation/ utility use (for all transportation/
sides serviced by occupancy) or occupancy) institutional) utility/ services)
the
RROW.

Notes:
* with absolutely no firewalls/abutments allowed for R-1 use.

** with firewall/abutment allowed on only one (1) side property line and absolutely no firewall/abutment at front and rear property lines for R-2
use.

*** with firewalls/ abutments allowed on two (2) side property lines only or on one (1) side property line and the rear property line and absolutely
no firewall/abutment at front property lines for R-3 and R-5 uses; and with firewalls/ abutments allowed on two (2) side property lines only and
absolutely no firewall/abutment at the front and rear property lines for R-4 use.

**** with firewalls/abutments for all classes of institutional uses.

# with firewall/abutment allowed on only one (1) side for all classes of cultural uses.

## with firewalls/abutments allowed on two (2) sides only or on one (1) side and rear boundary for all classes of transportation/utility uses.

+ Refer to Rule VIII - Figures VIII.2. through VIII.8. for lot type/location.

++ Refer to Rule VII for occupancy grouping.

96
 Far Eastern University
JULY 2020

74
Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts
___________________________________________________________________________
Guidelines on Lots. . . .

Continuation of Table VIII.G.6. . . .

MINIMUM MINIMUM
PERCENTAGE OF OPEN SPACE PERCENTAGE OF OPEN SPACE
BY OCCUPANCY TYPE** BY OCCUPANCY TYPE**
(for Proposed Developments (for Proposed Developments
without Firewalls or Abutments) with Permitted Firewalls or Allowed Abutments)

LOT TYPE/ LOCA-

TION*
A&B H-1, H-2, All Other A&B H-1, H-2, All Other
(Residential or H-4 and I Uses/ (Residential or H-4 and I Uses/
Institutional) (Cultural) and Occu- Institutional) (Cultural) and Occu-
& C, D, E-2 E-1 and E-3 pancy & C, D, E-2 E-1 and E-3 pancy
and H (Transport- and H (Transport-
(Institutional) ation/Utility/Ser- (Institutional) ation/Utility/Ser-
vice) vice)

End Lots bounded on 40% 40% * 30% #

20% 15%
two (2) or more sides (for R-1 use or (for all classes (for all cultural)
by the property line of occupancy of cultural use
the subdivision or by only), or occupancy)
public open spaces
such as easements of 30% and 25%**
lake/ (for R-2 use or (for R-2)
sea-shores, rivers, occupancy 50%
esteros, only) (for all classes 40% ##
etc. and accessible and of transport- (for all
only through one (1) ation/utility use 20%*** transportation/
side of the lot; 30% or occupancy) (for other utility /services)
see Figure VIII.8. (for other residential)
residential uses
or occupancy)

and

50%
(for all classes 40%****
of institutional (for all
uses or institutional)
occupancy)

Corner-Through Lots 30% 35% * 30% #

10% 5%
or Corner Lots+ (for R-1 and all (for all classes (for all cultural)
abutting three (3) or other of cultural 25%**
more public open residential and use or (for R-2)
spaces such as commercial occupancy) 20%***
streets, alleys, ease- uses or (for other
ment of lake/sea- occupancy) and residential and
shores, rivers, esteros, commercial)
etc.; see Figures VIII.6 and 40% 30% ##
. and VIII.7. (for all classes (for all
+Note: For corner lots, of transport- 30%**** transport-
the largest setback 40% ation/ utility use (for all ation/utility/
requirement shall apply (for all classes or occupancy) institutional) services)
to the two (2) sides of institutional
serviced by the uses or
RROW. occupancy)
Note: See preceding page for typical Notes/Legends

REFERENCE:
Presidential Decree 1096, National Building Code of the Philippines
https://www.dpwh.gov.ph/dpwh/references/laws_codes_orders/national_law
 Far Eastern University
JULY 2020
Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts
___________________________________________________________________________
 Far Eastern University
JULY 2020
Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts
___________________________________________________________________________

WEEK 8.
SPACE PLANNING

Space planning is a complex process with many factors to consider. The principles of space planning involve satisfying
defined criteria on a priority basis – as a result, space planning is frequently about compromise. That being said, there
is often more than one solution to planning out the space requirements of a building.

Part 1 – Collect information

The design of a building or space will have numerous requirements from the client or end user. It is important in the
very early stages of design to carry out in depth research and consider as many aspects of the use of the spaces as
possible. Some considerations can include:
• Do the spaces have specific functions or need to be particular shapes or forms?
• Do the spaces need to be flexible?
• Is it possible to create a sequence of spaces (offices, museums for example)?
• Do the spaces have different requirements in terms of light, ventilation, view, accessibility?
• Do the spaces need to have access to external spaces?
• Must any of the spaces have particular security or privacy?
• Is there any hierarchical requirements of the spaces?
• What relationships must each space have with one another, and the external environment?
• How should the spaces be connected?
• Which rooms need to be adjacent to one another and which rooms need to be apart?

An example of some questions to consider if you are designing a residential unit:

• What is the family size and structure?
• Location of site
• Number of levels
• Family or individual interests and activities

The more information and data that can be collected in these earlier stages, the easier it will be to make the leap from
data to diagrams and drawings as you proceed through the space planning process.

Part 2 – Interpret Requirements – Build the Brief

When we look at how to create spaces and accommodate humans in those spaces we can consider some universal
concepts relating to how people interact with their environments.
• Insider vs outsider
• Individual vs community
• Invitation vs rejection
• Openness vs enclosure
• Integration vs segregation
• Combination vs dispersion

With these factors in mind we can start to develop a plan of requirements, extract from the data we have collected the
necessary functions these spaces will be fulfilling.

In some cases, it is suitable to develop a matrix/table that demonstrates the requirements of each room, in terms of
privacy, daylight, access, equipment and so forth, along with writing out any additional requirements or special
considerations for each room. This information will be a useful reference as you work through the spaces of each room
and start to develop some sketch diagrams.
 Far Eastern University
JULY 2020
Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts
___________________________________________________________________________

Solid Circle = Primary Adjacency

Circle Outline = Secondary Adjacency
Horizontal Line = Undesired Adjacency
https.//carolyndaut.com

Part 3 – Consider spaces and spatial relationships

Spatial Relationships
How can spaces be related to one another?
• Space within a space
• Interlocking spaces
• Spaces linked by a common space
• Adjacent spaces

https://www.firstinarchitecture.co.uk

Organizing the space

You can consider a varying forms of spatial organization, some of which are more naturally suited to particular uses
than others:
• Centralized organization
• Linear organization
• Radial organization
• Clustered organization
• Grid organization

Consider some of the following as you plan out your spaces:

• How does the envelope affect the internal spaces?
• How will the contents of the room be arranged?
• Do the rooms connect?
• What is the flow of the circulation?
• Are the proportions of the spaces comfortable?

https://www.firstinarchitecture.co.uk

Developing circulation
• How people move around the building from room to room is just as important as the destination.
• When developing a circulation structure we can look at a few basic principles.
• How efficient is the circulation in getting from point A to point B
• Is the circulation discrete?
• What is the fluidity of the circulation? Is there a smooth flowing route or a more direct route?
• Does the circulation route clash with furnishing requirements?
 Far Eastern University
JULY 2020
Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts
___________________________________________________________________________

https://www.firstinarchitecture.co.uk

Part 4 – Create the solution

Once the spaces have been considered and the requirements have been studied it is time to start sketching out
relationship diagrams. The relationship diagram takes your design from data to a more visual look at physically planning
out your space. It is abstract, and rough but enables you to develop your understanding of the requirements and
visualize how the spaces will work together and how the circulation may flow between them.

At this stage the diagram does not need to represent the building size or space, more a look at how each room relates
to one another, sizes and so on.

https://sites.google.com

As your sketch diagrams develop you can begin to build a rough sketch plan of your spaces, this is sometimes known
as bubble diagramming. The bubble diagram helps you make the connection between basic spatial requirements and
a fully drafted floor plan. It is essentially a trial and error method of exploring the configuration options. If you are
working within the constraints of an existing building you can print out the floor plan and work within that. However, if
you are designing a new building the bubble diagram can often be connected with your concept and site analysis to
develop the design. During this process it is important to keep referring back to the initial data collected and the
relationship diagram to ensure you are considering all aspects of the design requirements.
 Far Eastern University
JULY 2020
Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts
___________________________________________________________________________

Try different options and configurations, sketch your ideas and how the spaces will connect to one another. As you
work through the different options, make notes on each one as to any pros and cons, benefits etc., so that later you
can easily disregard options that you don’t think will work at a later point.

www.the-house-plans-guide.com

Part 5 – Review and revise

Once some solutions have been sketched out it is then possible to review these solutions and look for areas that require
improvement. Things to consider when we look at a residential scheme:
• How will the occupants move from room to room?
• Does the circulation cut up the space?
• Does guest traffic flow through private areas?
• Are the doors and windows in suitable positions? Do they interfere or add to the overall spatial plan?
• Does the plan orientate itself correctly with the site?
• Do the rooms work well in relation to one another?

Once you have reviewed your initial sketches and ideas the plans can be developed further by adding more detail and
refining your drawings. It is key to refer to any building regulations, codes and standards that will have an impact on
your space planning to ensure that your design is compliant from an early stage.

REFERENCES / SOURCES:
https://www.firstinarchitecture.co.uk/space-planning-basics/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MFOR2AIN5mI
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aTtxMBb0-hY
 Far Eastern University
JULY 2020
Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts
___________________________________________________________________________

WEEK 8.
INTERRELATIONSHIP OF SPACES

INTERRELATIONSHIP OF SPACES IN ARCHITECTURE

SPATIAL ORGANIZATION
Organization of space in architecture is fundamental to the creation of composition. It brings together different forms
and shapes and provides a cohesive structure to the design.

Spaces in a building can be organized into patterns so that they relate to one another in a specific way. Spatial
relationships between forms help define their interaction. Some common spatial relationships used in architecture
include:

• Space within a Space

• Interlocking Spaces
• Adjacent Spaces
• Spaces Linked by a Common Space

SPACE WITHIN A SPACE

A large space can contain a smaller space within its volume. The larger space helps define the spatial boundary for
the smaller space inside it. While the continuity between the two spaces can be easily understood, the smaller space
depends of the larger space for its relationship to the exterior environment.

https://www.firstinarchitecture.co.uk

https://www.archilovers.com

In order for this spatial relationship to be understood, a clear distinction in size is needed between the two spaces. If
the contained space were to increase in size, the larger space would begin to lose its impact as an enveloping form.

In order to stand out from the larger form, the smaller space could share the same space of the envelope, but be
oriented differently. It can also differ in form from the enveloping space in order to stand out as a freestanding volume.
This contrast in form could indicate either a functional difference between the two spaces or the symbolic importance
of the contained space.
 Far Eastern University
JULY 2020
Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts
___________________________________________________________________________

INTERLOCKING SPACES
An interlocking spatial relationship results from the overlapping of two volumes and the resultant area of shared space.
When two spaces interlock their volumes this way, each maintains its identity as a space.

The interlocking area of the two volumes can be equally shared by each space. It can converge with one of the spaces
and become an inherent part of its volume. It can also develop its own identity as a space that serves to link the two
original spaces.

https://www.firstinarchitecture.co.uk

https://www.pinterest.ph

ADJACENT SPACES
Adjacency allows each space to be clearly defined and to respond to specific functional or symbolic requirements. The
amount of continuity that takes place between two spaces depends on the characteristics of the plane that separates
and brings them together at the same time.

The separating plane may restrict the physical or visual connection between two spaces. It may also reinforce the
individuality of each space, and help differentiate them.

It can either appear as a freestanding plane in a volume of space or it can be defined with a row of columns. Unlike a
solid plane, columns allow a greater degree of visual continuity between two spaces.

https://www.firstinarchitecture.co.uk
https://www.contemporist.com
 Far Eastern University
JULY 2020
Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts
___________________________________________________________________________

A plane may alternatively be implied by a level change or different surface materials or textures between two spaces.
This can also be interpreted as individual volumes of space divided into two related zones.

SPACES LINKED BY A COMMON SPACE

Two separate spaces can be linked to each other by a third, intermediate, space. The spatial relationship between the
two spaces depends on the qualities of the third space which they share.

The intermediate space can differ in shape and orientation from the two spaces. Alternatively, the two spaces and
intermediate space can also be equal in size or form.

If large enough, the intermediate space can become the primary space and arrange about itself a number of spaces.
Its shape can be residual and be determined strictly by the forms of the two spaces being linked.

https://www.firstinarchitecture.co.uk https://www.seedsfordesign.blogspot.com

In addition to these spatial relationships, there are various types of organizational approaches used in the design of
buildings. Spatial organizations help unite an array of otherwise disparate shapes. Common methods of spatial
organization include:

• Centralized Organization
• Linear Organization
• Radial Organization
• Clustered Organization
• Grid Organization

CENTRALIZED ORGANIZATION
A central organization is composed of a dominant central space, with secondary spaces grouped around it. As a
composition, this arrangement is concentrated and stable.

The central space is usually regular in form and large enough to gather smaller spaces about its perimeter. The
secondary spaces may be equal in size or shape in order to create a more balanced composition around the central
space.

Alternatively, they may be different from one another in form or size in order to emphasize their unique function or
hierarchy. In addition to the relationship between each shape, this arrangement also allows the composition to respond
to the surrounding site.
 Far Eastern University
JULY 2020
Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts
___________________________________________________________________________

The relationship to its site is important in a centralized composition since it is inherently non-directional. It depends on
the site and
Thearticulation
secondary of one of the
spaces smaller
may volumes
differ from to dictate
one the conditions
another in form oforentry
sizeand access to
in order intorespond
the central
space.
to individual requirements of function, express their relative important, or acknowledge
their surroundings.

https://benbrianfernandez.files.wordpress.com

4.2 Linear Organization https://rinbo.files.wordpress.com

A linear organization consists essentially of a series of spaces. These spaces can either
be directly
The circulation patternrelated
within to one another
a centralized or be linked
organization can bethrough a separate
spiral, radial, and
or loop in distinct
form. In linear
virtually all
space.however, the movement pattern will end around a central space.
circumstances,

LINEAR A ORGANIZATION
linear organization usually consists of repetitive spaces which are alike in size, form,
A linear organization can be composed of a single, unifying element, about which different objects are arranged. These
and function.
objects may be different in scale, program and shape.
It may also consist of a single linear space that organizes along its length a series of
Alternatively, a linear organization can also be comprised of elements that are uniform and similar in scale, program,
and shape.space
Theythat differdue
are linear in size,
to theirform, or function.
arrangement In both
in a singular axis,cases,
rather each space
than as along
a result of a the sequence
dominant unifying
has an exterior exposure.
linear volume.

https://rinbo.files.wordpress.com

Prepared by RINBO Eng Page 11 of 26

Within the linear arrangement, there may be spaces that require articulation due to functional or visual hierarchy. This
can be achieved by locating the volumes at the ends of the linear access, offsetting them from the axis, or locating
them at points of intersection (pivotal points).
 Far Eastern University
JULY 2020
Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts
___________________________________________________________________________

Because of their inherent properties of length and axial continuity, linear organizations express movement and a
directional quality.

RADIAL ORGANIZATIONS
Radial organizations are effectively a combination of linear and centralized organizations. They have a central focal
point from which linear forms radiate from.

https://www.firstinarchitecture.co.uk

https://zonfiza.blogspot.com

Unlike centralized organizations, however, where the focus is inward towards the center space, radial organizations
expand out towards their surroundings.

The linear forms may be equal in size and form, where they may differ in length or shape. This may be a result of
programmatic requirements or it may be a design decision.

When the radiating organizations are regular and symmetrical, the central space gains a greater degree of importance.
On the other hand, if certain linear organizations differ in scale or form, it helps to emphasize them in the hierarchal
structure of the layout.

CLUSTERED ORGANIZATIONS
Clustered organizations rely on proximity to relate spaces to one another. Often, they consist of repetitive cellular
spaces that have certain visual qualities in common.

However, it’s not necessary for the forms that make up a clustered organization to be regular in size or shape. A
clustered organization can work just as well with dissimilar shapes, as long as they are assembled close together.

https://www.firstinarchitecture.co.uk
https://building.ca
 Far Eastern University
JULY 2020
Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts
___________________________________________________________________________

A clustered organization can have a central focal point or uniting central form, however, it lacks the regularity and
symmetry of a centralized organization. The center form can be emphasized to create a greaterDesign
Architectural senseand
of hierarchy.
Theory 1: Form, Space & Order

Clustered organizations can also have a linear element that organizes the clustered forms. This creates a greater
sense of unity and helps articulate certain portions of the composition.

GRID ORGANIZATIONS
A grid organization is comprised of a 3-dimensional composition of linear reference points. Usually, they are
perpendicular from one another, though they need not be.

The continuity and regularity created by the grid gives the composition a strong sense of stability and organization. It
helps unite forms of dissimilar shape and scale. Functionally and visually, it helps regulate the orientation of the
composition.
4.5 Grid Organization
Typically grid patterns are emphasizedA grid organization
by the consistsofofthe
structural elements forms and spaces
building. whosethe
This includes positions in space
regular layout fo and
relationship with one another are regulated by a three-dimensional
columns and beams. It can also be emphasized through non-structural elements such as the joints of materials of grid pattern or field.
mullions in glass.
The grid, create by two, usually perpendicular sets of parallel lines, establish a regular
Grid patterns can be interrupted at pattern of points inat order
specific locations their to
intersections. Projected
create hierarchy. into the
This allows forthird dimension,
portions of the the grid
pattern is transformed into a set of repetitive, modular
composition where the grid is disrupted to stand out, giving them a greater sense of importance. unit of space, within which
spaces can occur as isolated events or as repetitions of the grid module.

https://rinbo.files.wordpress.com
https://www.firstinarchitecture.co.uk

REFERENCES / SOURCES:
Ching, F. D. K. (2007). Architecture: Form, Space and Order. Hoboken, N.J: John Wiley & Sons.
https://www.yourownarchitect.com/spatial-organization-in-architecture/
https://www.firstinarchitecture.co.uk/space-planning-basics/
Site Analysis and Climatic Factors Effects in Residential
Building Design
Week 10-11

Source: Short Course on Environmental Planning DCERP & HUMEIN Phils. Inc.
 SITE
• Any area which has played a significant role in the history of
our country.
• Such significance may be:
• Historical
• Cultural
• Archaeological
• Sociological
• Scientific

2
 SITE PLANNING

• SITE - A space or ground occupied or to be occupied by a

building or a concentration of building developments or
human activities that fall under the same land use category;

• Through site planning, a site is made suitable for building

purposes, human activities, or life sustaining processes;

3
 SITE PLANNING
• A site for human activities (production and consumption) may be
divided into lots, street pattern, and provided with such facilities
as water, sewer, power, drainage, etc.
• Every site is a unique interconnected web of things and
activities that imposes limitations and offers possibilities.
• A SITE (“Project Area” or “Planning Area”) varies in size,
location and characteristics.

4
 SITE PLANNING

“
The art of arranging structures on the land
and shaping the spaces between; an art
linked to architecture, engineering,
landscape architecture and city planning.”
„
- Site Planning by Kevin Lynch

5
 SITE PLANNING
“
The art and science of arranging the uses of
portions of land. These uses are designated in
detail by selecting and analyzing sites, forming
land use plans, organizing vehicular and
pedestrian circulation, developing visual form
and material concepts, readjusting the existing
landforms by design grading, providing proper
drainage, and developing the construction
details necessary to carry out the projects
„
- A Guide to Site and Environmental Planning, 1980 by Harvey Rubenstein
6
 SITE PLANNING
There are two methods of establishing a site:
1. Site Selection Process
• The process selects from a list of potential sites one that suits
best the given use and requirements of the project.

2. Development Suitability Process

• This process selects the best possible use and development
suited for a given site.

7
 SITE PLANNING
A. NATURAL FACTORS

Geomorphology Land forms, soil properties (composition, soil texture,

bearing capacity, stability, erosion/ erodability, fertility)
Topography Elevation, slope
Hydrology Surface and ground water, drainage, aquifer recharge
areas, depth to seasonal water table
Geology Seismic Hazards, depth to bedrock
Climate Wind, solar orientation, humidity
Vegetation Plant communities, specimen trees, exotic invasive
species
Wildlife Endangered of threatened species and habitats
8
 SITE PLANNING
B. CULTURAL FACTORS

Existing Land Use Ownership of adjacent property, off-site nuisances

Legal Land ownership, land use regulations, easements and
deed restrictions
Circulation Vehicular and pedestrian circulation on or adjacent to site,
traffic volume, street function (arterial, collector)
Density and Zoning Legal and regulatory controls
Socio-economic factors and sensory (noise, odor, visual quality)
Utilities Sanitary, storm-water, water supply, power supply, and
communications
History factors Historic buildings, landmarks, and archeology
9
 SITE PLANNING
C. AESTHETIC FACTORS

Natural Features
Spatial Patterns Spaces and sequences
Visual Resources Views

10
 Hydrology

Hydrology: the science that

studies the waters of the
earth, their occurrence,
circulation and distribution,
their chemical and physical
properties, and their reaction
to the living environment

•Intense rainfalls promote

highest rate of soil erosion

13
 Hydrology
•Aquifer: permeable geological
stratum/formation that can both
store and transmit groundwater
in significant quantities
•Watershed: geographic area
of land bounded by topographic
features and height of land that
captures precipitation, filters &
stores waters to a shared
destination; this is important in
water quality and stormwater
management 12
 Climate
Four types: cold, temperate, hot arid
& hot humid.
Topography, surface materials, plant
cover, location of structures, and
presence/absence of water have
striking impact on the microclimate
Solar orientation
Best-facing slopes
Wind flows

13
 Climate

Albedo: characteristic of a surface;

fraction of total radiant energy of a
given wavelength incident on a surface
reflected back by that surface
Passive Cooling: technology of cooling
spaces through proper siting of
structure and use of energy-efficient
materials, with the overall objective of
energy conservation
Climate and Green Building
14
 Slope
Relatively Flat/ Level to Nearly Level 0-3%
Easy Grades 4-6%
Moderately Undulating to Steeply Sloping 7-14%
Steep 14-18%
Not alienable and disposable > 18%

Rolling to Hilly 18-30%

Hilly to Mountainous 30-50%

Mountainous & Excessively Steep 50% & up

15
Slope & Structures

16
 Slope and Angle of Repose

Angle of Repose: the maximum angle at which any earth

material can be safely inclined and beyond which it wall fall.

Soil Stabilization Techniques

19
 Slope Analysis
An analytical process made on a topographic
map that produces an overall pattern of slopes,
to help the planner determine the best uses for
various portions of the site, along with the
feasibility of construction.

Slope Requirements* for various Land Uses

LAND USE MIN MAX OPTIMUM
Housing Sites 0% 20-25% 2%
Playgrounds 0.05% 2-3% 1%
Public Stairs - 50% 25%
Lawns (Mowed) - 25% 2-3%
Septic Drainfields 0% 15%
Paved Surfaces
Parking Lots 0.05% 3% 1%
Sidewalks 0% 10% 1%
Streets and Roads - 15-17% 1%
20 mph - 12%
70 mph - 4%
Industrial Sites
Factories 0% 3-4%

* RePqaurikreinmgentsvary 0.05% 3%
20
VEGETATION
•Affects site’s microclimate
•Definition or visual screening of exterior spaces
•Absorption or dispersion of sound
•Can control erosion
Wind shadow
 Define space Direct views

Visual screen

Attenuate sound
Can control erosion: Vitiver grass- miracle grass of amazing
bio engineering capabilities
sun

•Solar radiation
•Natural light
wind

•air infiltration to
building

•Ventilation

•Lateral load of
structure
•The roof form and construction
•Presence and drainage of water on the site
•Choice of building materials

Moderately pitched

Flat roof Steeply pitched

 READING MATERIALS:

• National Building Code

• PD 957 and BP 220
• HLURB enhanced guidebook
• UDHA (RA 7279)
• Water Code (PD 1067)

28
 REFERENCES:
• “Site Planning and Analysis” Retrieved from
http://www.rri.wvu.edu/webbook/mcbride/section3.html
• “Introduction to Site Planning” Muhammad Salaha Uddin, Khulna University of Engineering &
Technology. Retrieved from
http://www.kuet.ac.bd/webportal/ppmv2/uploads/1403705050lecture_01.pdf
• Rye, D.S. Lecture notes on Site Planning
• Cultural Attributes in Site Planning PPT
• Art of Site Planning PPT
• Ekistics Site Planning and Urban Design PPT by A. Cadavos
• “Site Planning” Retrieved from http://www.slideshare.net/xthianescala/site-planning-kevin-
lynch
• Ces Orquina. Settlements, Urban Design & Site Planning

29
THANK YOU!

Source: Short Course on Environmental Planning DCERP & HUMEIN Phils. Inc.
 Far Eastern University 2nd Semester 2020-2021
Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts

WEEK 10 MODULE: SITE ANALYSIS AND CLIMATIC FACTORS EFFECTS IN RESIDENTIAL

BUILDING DESIGN

Topics to be discussed:

1. site analysis in residential design. ·

2. types of land such as rolling terrains, steeps, near body of water, etc. ·
3. design strategies and develop creative design solutions that are unique and workable ·
4. Case Studies: Analyzing Site Context, Land Type, and Climate (sun-path, wind approach, noise source,
utility source, etc.) and how it affects the following: Site Planning Concept for Residential Projects

INTRODUCTION:

Site Planning is defined by Kevin Lynch as “the art of arranging structures on the land and shaping the spaces
between; an art linked to architecture, engineering, landscape architecture and city planning.” (Site Planning)

Harvey M. Rubenstein defines it as ”the art and science of arranging the uses of portions of land. These uses are
designated in detail by selecting and analyzing sites, forming land use plans, organizing vehicular and
pedestrian circulation, developing visual form and materials concepts, readjusting the existing landforms by
design grading, providing proper drainage, and developing the construction details necessary to carry out the
projects”. (A Guide to Site and Environmental Planning, 1980)

In site planning, as in other forms of problem-solving, the critical thinking process of research, analysis and
synthesis makes a major contribution to the formation of design decisions.

• Research material may be gathered from existing projects, books photographs, or experiments. A
program is then formulated and the elements required to develop the project is listed.

• Analysis of the site shall consider all existing features, both natural and man-made in order to determine
those inherent qualities that give a site its ‘personality’. A topographical analysis is mandatory.
Emphasis should be made on the site’s relationship with the total environment and its special values or
potentials.

There are two methods of establishing a SITE:

1. SITE SELECTION PROCESS

This process selects from a list of potential sites one that suits best the given use and requirements of
the project.

2. DEVELOPMENT SUITABILITY PROCESS

This process selects the best possible use and development suited for a given site.

SITE ANALYSIS
-it involves the study of the site in terms of the following:

Natural factors

1. Geology
2. Geomorphology – physiography, landforms, soils, drainage, topography and slopes, and soil erosion
3. Hydrology – surface and ground water
4. Vegetation – plant ecology
5. Wildlife – habitats
6. Climate – solar orientation, wind, and humidity.

ARC 1402: ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN 2

 Far Eastern University 2nd Semester 2020-2021
Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts
Cultural factors:

1. Existing land use – ownership of adjacent property, off-site nuisances

2. Traffic and transit – vehicular and pedestrian circulation on or adjacent to site
3. Density and zoning – legal and regulatory controls
4. Socio-economic factors
5. Utilities – sanitary, storm-water, water supply, power supply, and communications.
6. Historic factors – historic buildings, landmarks, and archeology

Aesthetic factors:

1. Natural features
2. Spatial patterns – spaces and sequences
3. Visual Resources – views and vistas

ARC 1402: ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN 2

 Far Eastern University 2nd Semester 2020-2021
Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts

THE NATURAL FACTORS

GEOLOGY is the natural science that studies the Earth – its composition; the processes that shaped its surface;
and its history. Earth is made up of rocks (including soil, sand, silt and dust); rocks are composed of minerals;
minerals are made up of atoms :

Igneous Rocks – rocks produced by crystallization from a liquid.

Sedimentary Rocks – when igneous rocks are exposed to surface and weathering reduces them to particles,
these particles are moved by erosional process and deposited in layers into rivers and oceans .

Metamorphosed Rocks – when sedimentary rocks are pushed to deeper levels of the earth, they transform into
metamorphosed rocks due to changes in pressure and temperature .

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GEOMORPHOLOGY - is that branch of Geology that deals with the origin, nature and distribution of landforms.

Physiography – refers to the description of landforms.

Landforms – are irregularities on the earth’s surface. They are derived from volcanic, glacial, or erosional
processes.

When designing a piece of property for architectural, landscape architectural and engineering usage, it is
essential for the designer to first confront the nature of the land, particularly its form, its slopes, and its inherent
capabilities for surface and subsurface discharge of water, for supporting vertical and horizontal structures, and
for resisting erosion. This exercise requires four basic geomorphologic information such as :
• Soil Properties – Composition and Soil Texture
• Drainage
• Topography and Slopes
• Soil Erosion

In site planning, it is important to establish the relationship between soil composition and land uses (other than
agriculture). Soil surveys help guide in site selection for residential, industrial, and other forms of development
that involve surface and subsurface structures.
Several features, or properties, are used to describe soil for use in site design. Of these ---
1. COMPOSITION
2. TEXTURE
are generally the most meaningful; from them we can make inferences about bearing capacity, internal drainage,
erodibility, and slope stability.
SOIL PROPERTIES:

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1. BEARING CAPACITY FOR ROCK AND SOIL MATERIALS

2. Class 3. 4. Material 5. Allowable

Bearing Value
(psf)

6. 1 7. Rock 8. Massive crystalline bedrock, e.g. granite, 9. 200,000

gneiss

10. 2 11. Metamorphosed rock, e.g. schist, slate 12. 80,000

13. 3 14. Sedimentary rocks, e.g. shale, sandstone 15. 30,000

16. 4 17. Soil 18. Well compacted gravels and sands 19. 20,000
materials
20. 5 21. Compact gravel, sand/gravel mixtures 22. 12,000

23. 6 24. Loose gravel, compact coarse sand 25. 8,000

26. 7 27. Loose coarse sand; loose sand/gravel 28. 6,000

mixtures, compact fine sand, wet coarse sand

29. 8 30. Loose fine sand, wet fine sand 31. 4,000

32. 9 33. Stiff clay (dry) 34. 8,000

35. 10 36. Medium-stiff clay 37. 4,000

38. 11 39. Soft clay 40. 2,000

41. 12 42. Fill, organic material, or silt 43. (fixed by field

tests)

44. Source: Code Manual, New York State Building Code Commission

1. COMPOSITION refers to the material that makes up soil:

a. Mineral Particles:
i. Mineral Particles comprise 50% to 80% of the volume of the soil and form the all
important skeletal structure of the soil.
ii. Sand and gravel particles provide for the greatest stability, usually yield a relat-ively
high bearing capacity,
iii. Bearing capacity is a soil’s resistance to penetration from a weighted object such as
a building foundation. (see table above)

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b. Organic Matter - varies radically in soils and usually imposes a limitation to any building
structure. Organic matter is important only for soil fertility, moisture absorption and retention
and for landscaping.
c. Water content varies with particle sizes, local drainage, topography and climate. Most water
occupies the spaces between particles; only in organic soils do the particles themselves
actually absorb measurable amounts of water.
d. Air is what occupies remaining space that is not occupied by water. In layers where
groundwater is formed by gravity water in the subsoil and underlying rock, there is absence of
air.
2. TEXTURE - is the term used to describe the composite sizes of particles in a soil sample.

*There are 12 basic terms for texture, at the center of which is Class LOAM, which is an intermediate mixture of
40% sand, 40% silt and 20% clay.

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DRAINAGE:
GOOD DRAINAGE refers to the soil’s ability to transfer gravity water
downward through:
1. Infiltration - the rate at which water penetrates the soil surface
(usually measured in cm or inches per hour);
2. Permeability - the rate at which water within the soil moves through
a given volume of material (also measured in cm or inches per
hour)
3. Percolation - the rate at which water in a soil pit or pipe within the
soil is taken up by the soil (used mainly in wastewater absorption
tests and measured in inches per hour)

POOR DRAINAGE - means that gravity water is not readily transmitted by the soil and soil is frequently or
permanently saturated and may have water standing on it caused by :
1. The local accumulation of water ;
2. A rise in the level of groundwater within the soil column;
3. The size of the particles in the soil being too small to transmit infiltration water.

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TOPOGRAPHY AND SLOPES

SLOPE ANALYSIS - Understanding slope forms for site design requires understanding of local geologic, soil,
hydrologic, and vegetative conditions.

SLOPE FORM - is expressed graphically in terms of a slope profile, a silhouette of a slope drawn to known
proportions with distance on the horizontal axis and elevation on the vertical axis
Four basic slope forms are detectable on contour maps: Straight, S-shaped, concave and convex.

ANGLE OF REPOSE - angle at which soil can be safely inclined and beyond which it will fail.

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TOPOGRAPHIC MAP – a map of a portion of the earth that describes the shape of the earth’s surface by
contour lines.

7,000

6,000

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Contours – are imaginary lines that join points of equal elevation
on the surface of the land above or below a reference surface
such as the mean sea level.

Contours make it possible to measure the height of mountains,

depth of the ocean bottoms, and steepness of slopes.

SLOPE ANALYSIS - is an important analytical process made on a topographic map that makes a proper match
between land uses and slopes and produces an overall pattern of slopes which helps the site planner in
determining the buildable portions of the site.

The process involves breaking down of topography into grades which will establish the desired patterns for a
given land use as in the following example :

SLOPE PATTERN for ELEMENTARY AND HIGH SCHOOL

CAMPUS

0 – 5% Generally flat Highly buildable

5 – 10% Gently rolling Moderately buildable
10 – 15% Gentle to mild Moderately difficult to build
15 – 20% Mild to steep slopes Difficult to build
20% and over Harsh, steep slopes Unbuildable

In the analysis of the slopes, the distances for each Slope Pattern
are computed from the given topographic map, for use on the
Slope Map.

To compute the Distance of a slope from a topographic contour

map:

D distance = (contour interval / % Slope) X 100

D distance = (10 meters / 5%) X 100
D distance = 200.00 m for slope pattern 0-5 %
*This distance unit will figure in the graduated scale that will be
constructed for use in the slope map.

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A Slope Map is prepared to visually express these slope patterns on the topographic map. Here’s how to:
a. Establish the site boundaries on the map.
b. Make a constructed graduated scale on the edge of a cardboard sheet, representing the distances of
each slope pattern (using same scale as the topo map).
c. Place the scale on the map (see illustration above) and mark the edges where the scale matches the
distances between contour lines.
d. Color- or hatch-code each area delineated by these edges.
The result is a colored or gradient-hatched SLOPE MAP.

DESIRABLE SLOPES – when slopes are selected according to building type and the activities associated with it.
-- Flat or gently sloping sites are preferred for industrial and commercial buildings
-- Hilly sites are preferred for fashionable suburban residences.
Slopes influence the alignment of modern roads according to class of roads; the higher the class, the lower the
maximum grades allowable.

SLOPE REQUIREMENTS FOR VARIOUS LAND USES

Land Use Maximum Minimum Optimum

Housing Sites 20% - 25% 0% 2%

Playgrounds 2% - 3% .05% 1%

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Public Stairs 50% --- 25%

Lawns (mowed) 25% --- 2% -- 3%

Septic Drainfields* 15% 0% .05%

Paved Surfaces

Parking Lots 3% .05% 1%

Sidewalks 8% 0% 1%

Streets and Roads 15% -- 17% --- 1%

20 mph 12%

30 mph 10%

40 mph 8%

50 mph 7%

60 mph 5%

70 mph 4%

Industrial Sites

Factories 3% - 4% 0% 2%

Lay Down Storage 3% .05% 1%

Parking 3% .05% 1%

* Special drainfield designs are required at slopes above 10 to 12 percent.

SOIL EROSION – when rocks are broken down (weathered) into small fragments, and carried by wind, water, ice
and gravity. Energy for this process is solar and gravitational.

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PREVENTION
Four factors to consider in forecasting erosion rates:
Vegetation | soil type | slope size and inclination | frequency and intensity of rainfall

1. Vegetation:
• Foliage intercepts raindrops
• Organic litter on the ground reduces impact of raindrops
• Roots bind together aggregates of soil particles
• Cover density, in form of ground cover or tree canopy, decreases soil loss to runoff

2. Soil Type:
• Intermediate textures like sand will usually yield (erode) first
• To erode clay, the velocity of the runoff should be high enough to overcome cohesive forces that bind
the particles together
• Similarly, high velocities would be needed to move masses of pebbles and particles larger than those of
sand

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3. Slope Size and Inclination:

• The velocity of runoff is closely related to the slope of the ground over which it flows. Slopes that are
both steep and long produce the greatest erosion because they generate runoff that is high in velocity
and mass.

• Slope also influences the quantity of runoff since long slopes collect more rainfall and thus generate a
larger volume of runoff.

4. Frequency and Intensity of Rainfall:

• Intensive rainfalls produced by thunderstorms promote the highest rates of erosion.
• Accordingly, the incidence of storms plus total annual rainfall can be a reliable measure of the
effectiveness of rainfall in promoting soil erosion.

HYDROLOGY– the natural science that studies the Waters of the Earth, their occurrence, circulation and
distribution, their chemical and physical properties, and their reaction to the living environment including their
relation to all living things.

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Hydrologic cycle – or the planet’s water cycle, described by the movement of water from the oceans to the
atmosphere to the continents and back to the sea .

Water table – is the upper boundary of the zone of groundwater; the top of unconfined aquifer.

Aquifer – A permeable geological stratum or formation that can both store and transmit groundwater in
significant quantities.

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Watershed – a geographic area of land bounded by topographic features and height of land that captures
precipitation, filters and stores water and drains waters to a shared destination. Knowledge of watershed
boundaries is critical to water quality and storm water management.

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VEGETATION:
The relevance of Plant Materials in site planning is in their role in :

1. Climatic control

a. Solar Radiation – is Earth’s source of light and heat. It warms the earth’s surface, is reflected by
paving and other objects, and produces glare.
o Trees are one of the best controls for solar radiation because:
▪ they block or filter sunlight;
▪ they cool the air under their canopies providing natural air conditioning;
o Scientists have recorded that with an air temperature of 84deg F, surface temp of a
concrete paving was 108 deg, while surface temp under shade trees were 20deg lower.
b. Wind – helps to control temperature. When winds are of low velocity, they may be pleasant, but
when velocity increases, may cause discomfort or damage. Trees help to buffer winds in urban
areas caused by convection and Venturi effects.

c. Precipitation . Plants help to control precipitation reaching the ground. By intercepting rain and
slowing it down, they aid in moisture retention, and in the prevention of soil erosion. They also help
soil retain water by providing shade, or protection from the wind, or by water shedding function of
trees’ roots.

2. Environmental Engineering

a. Air Purification – Plants clean air through the process of photosynthesis where they use up
carbon dioxide emissions of cars and trucks and in the process release oxygen into the air.
Trees also help filter out other pollutants, i.e. sulfur dioxide, dust, pollen, and smoke.

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b. Noise – To understand noise:
o The sound level of normal conversation is about 60 decibels; a plane taking off
produces 120 decibels at a distance of 200 ft. Sound energy usually spreads out
and dissipates in transmission. Sound waves can be absorbed, reflected or
deflected.
o Plants absorb sound waves through their leaves, branches, twigs, especially
those with thick fleshy leaves and thin petioles.
o Tree trunks deflect sounds and it has been estimated that a 100 ft. depth of forest
can reduce sound by 21 decibels.

c. Glare and Reflection – Plants reduce glare and reflection caused by sunlight. A light source
received directly produces primary glare while reflected light is secondary glare. Plants may be
used to filter or block glare by use of plants with the appropriate size, shape, and foliage density.
d. Erosion Control - Vegetation with extensive root systems imparts stability to slopes.
o On sandy slopes, the presence of woody vegetation can increase the angle of repose by 10
to 15 degrees.
o Vitiveria ziziainoides or Vitiver Grass ‘miracle’ grass of amazing bio-engineering
capabilities.

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3. Architectural and Aesthetic Uses

a. Space Definition - as wall elements to form outdoor spaces, as canopies to provide shade, or as
ground covers to provide color and texture on the base plane.

b. View Control – While trees and shrubs can screen out objectionable views, they can also provide
backdrops for sculpture and fountains.

Additionally, they may provide filtered views of buildings or spaces, or frame a view, maximizing its
effect.

c. Mood – Plants affects peoples’ moods.

WILDLIFE:

Wildlife relates closely to habitats provided by plant communities. The three groups of habitat elements essential
to the different species of wildlife are:
1. Openland Wildlife – includes birds and mammals commonly associated with crop fields, meadows,
pastures, and non-forested lands. Habitat elements essential for openland wildlife include:
a. Grain and seed crops
b. Grasses and legumes
c. Wild herbaceous upland plants
d. Hardwood woody plants

2. Woodland Wildlife – These species need various combinations of:

a. Grasses and legumes

b. Wild herbaceous upland plants
c. Hardwood woody plants
d. Cone-bearing shrubs such as pines.

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3. Wetland Wildlife – wetland species include birds and mammals needing habitats with:

a. Wetland food plants or wild herbaceous plants of moist to wet sites, excluding submerged or
floating aquatic plants;
b. Shallow water development with water impoundments not deeper than 5 ft.;
c. Excavated ponds with ample supply of water at least one acre and average 6ft depth.
d. streams

CLIMATE:

Climates can be generally classified into four types: COLD, TEMPERATE, HOT ARID and HOT HUMID.
In each, a site should be investigated in terms of:
a. Solar orientation for buildings;
b. The best facing slopes; and
c. Wind flows for breezes.

a. Solar orientation

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b. Best facing slopes

• Temperatures vary with elevation – by about 3 deg for every 1000 ft. (300m) in the daytime.
• The more perpendicular a slope is to the rays of the sun, the warmer the surface
temperature.

c. Wind Flows for breezes.

• Abrupt forms cause unpleasant air turbulence.

• Smooth forms induce smooth flow of air.

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SITE PLANNING CONCEPT USING NATURAL FACTORS:

PASSIVE COOLING – the technology of cooling spaces through proper siting of structure and use of energy-
efficient materials, with the overall objective of energy conservation.
• Solar Orientation
• Altitude
• Topography
• Vegetation
• Water Bodies
•

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THE CULTURAL FACTORS
EXISTING LAND USE:

Land Use Plans are available in each city and municipality to determine the areas for commercial, institutional,
industrial, residential, and open space uses. These were planned according to the most rational use of land in
relation to the natural and socio-economic factors, and in accordance with compatibility with adjacent land uses.

Each site must conform to the land use plan: a residential subdivision, for example, cannot be developed in a site
designated as Industrial.

TRAFFIC AND TRANSIT SYSTEMS:

• The relationship of traffic pattern to each other and to the site must be studied for adequacy of access
and efficiency of circulation within and outside of the site.

• Efficient traffic and transportation systems will result in successful integration of the different
developments in the vicinity.

• Direction of dominant traffic flow, both vehicular and pedestrian will also help establish points of highest
visual impact for the site.

• Access must also consider pedestrian movement.

DENSITY AND ZONING:

• Density refers to the population per unit land area. This data will determine whether existing utilities and
land areas will be sufficient to sustain additional future development, which will naturally add to the
existing population and bear on the capacity of these utilities.

• Density is expressed in number of families or dwelling units per hectare. It may also be expressed in
Floor Area Ratio (FAR).

• Density influences the privacy, social contact among people, and freedom of movement of an individual
or a group of people.

• Zoning regulations, laws and codes are present in every city and municipality to regulate the type of
development. It divides the city or municipality into land use areas that are designated by building
height, building coverage, density of population, and open space.

SOCIO-ECONOMIC FACTORS:

• The study of the community and its social and economic structures are done to determine
whether there is a need, an interest, or any objections on the project.

• Any proposed project must be compatible with the economy of the particular community. For
example, a high-end boutique is hardly suitable in a low-income community.

• The social structure of the community must be taken into consideration to ensure that a
proposed development will not result in any displaced families, and any major disruption in their
businesses and other activities.

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UTILITIES / SERVICES:

It is important to determine the existing availability of utilities on site in terms of adequacy and efficiency. This
includes:
• Sanitary/sewage system
• Electric power supply
• Water supply
• Drainage

Most water systems will supply domestic, industrial, and fire stand-by supply from a distribution system. Storm
drains collect surface water and conduct it to rivers, creeks, or other bodies of water.

HISTORIC FACTORS:

1. Historic Buildings
2. Historic Landmarks
3. Archeology

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THE AESTHETIC FACTORS

NATURAL FEATURES:

When sites are characterized by outstanding natural features

of earth, rock, water or plant material, these may be
incorporated in the site development as natural assets of the
land.

SPATIAL PATTERNS:

Spatial pattern is defined as the way an open space of a given site is configured according to an arrangement of
elements that evoke activity or flow, both physically or visually.

VISUAL RESOURCES:

1. View – is a scene observed from a vantage point.

• A view can be a theme that may suggest and give added meaning to buildings.
• The full view is not always the best view.

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2. Vista – is a confined view, usually directed toward a terminal or dominant feature. It has three components: a
viewing station, a view, and a foreground.

• A view is usually better if enframed or seen

through an appropriate screen.

SAMPLE OFSCHEMATIC SITE ANALYSIS

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REFERENCES

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 Far Eastern University 2nd Semester 2020-2021
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WEEK 11 MODULE: SITE ANALYSIS AND CLIMATIC FACTORS EFFECTS IN RESIDENTIAL

BUILDING DESIGN

Topics to be discussed:

1. site analysis in residential design. ·

2. types of land such as rolling terrains, steeps, near body of water, etc. ·
3. design strategies and develop creative design solutions that are unique and workable ·
4. Case Studies: Analyzing Site Context, Land Type, and Climate (sun-path, wind approach, noise source,
utility source, etc.) and how it affects the following: Site Planning Concept for Residential Projects

INTRODUCTION:

Site Planning is defined by Kevin Lynch as “the art of arranging structures on the land and shaping the spaces
between; an art linked to architecture, engineering, landscape architecture and city planning.” (Site Planning)

Harvey M. Rubenstein defines it as ”the art and science of arranging the uses of portions of land. These uses are
designated in detail by selecting and analyzing sites, forming land use plans, organizing vehicular and
pedestrian circulation, developing visual form and materials concepts, readjusting the existing landforms by
design grading, providing proper drainage, and developing the construction details necessary to carry out the
projects”. (A Guide to Site and Environmental Planning, 1980)

In site planning, as in other forms of problem-solving, the critical thinking process of research, analysis and
synthesis makes a major contribution to the formation of design decisions.

• Research material may be gathered from existing projects, books photographs, or experiments. A
program is then formulated and the elements required to develop the project is listed.

• Analysis of the site shall consider all existing features, both natural and man-made in order to determine
those inherent qualities that give a site its ‘personality’. A topographical analysis is mandatory.
Emphasis should be made on the site’s relationship with the total environment and its special values or
potentials.

There are two methods of establishing a SITE:

1. SITE SELECTION PROCESS

This process selects from a list of potential sites one that suits best the given use and requirements of
the project.

2. DEVELOPMENT SUITABILITY PROCESS

This process selects the best possible use and development suited for a given site.

SITE ANALYSIS
-it involves the study of the site in terms of the following:

Natural factors

1. Geology
2. Geomorphology – physiography, landforms, soils, drainage, topography and slopes, and soil erosion
3. Hydrology – surface and ground water
4. Vegetation – plant ecology
5. Wildlife – habitats
6. Climate – solar orientation, wind, and humidity.

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Cultural factors:

1. Existing land use – ownership of adjacent property, off-site nuisances

2. Traffic and transit – vehicular and pedestrian circulation on or adjacent to site
3. Density and zoning – legal and regulatory controls
4. Socio-economic factors
5. Utilities – sanitary, storm-water, water supply, power supply, and communications.
6. Historic factors – historic buildings, landmarks, and archeology

Aesthetic factors:

1. Natural features
2. Spatial patterns – spaces and sequences
3. Visual Resources – views and vistas

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THE NATURAL FACTORS

GEOLOGY is the natural science that studies the Earth – its composition; the processes that shaped its surface;
and its history. Earth is made up of rocks (including soil, sand, silt and dust); rocks are composed of minerals;
minerals are made up of atoms :

Igneous Rocks – rocks produced by crystallization from a liquid.

Sedimentary Rocks – when igneous rocks are exposed to surface and weathering reduces them to particles,
these particles are moved by erosional process and deposited in layers into rivers and oceans .

Metamorphosed Rocks – when sedimentary rocks are pushed to deeper levels of the earth, they transform into
metamorphosed rocks due to changes in pressure and temperature .

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GEOMORPHOLOGY - is that branch of Geology that deals with the origin, nature and distribution of landforms.

Physiography – refers to the description of landforms.

Landforms – are irregularities on the earth’s surface. They are derived from volcanic, glacial, or erosional
processes.

When designing a piece of property for architectural, landscape architectural and engineering usage, it is
essential for the designer to first confront the nature of the land, particularly its form, its slopes, and its inherent
capabilities for surface and subsurface discharge of water, for supporting vertical and horizontal structures, and
for resisting erosion. This exercise requires four basic geomorphologic information such as :

• Soil Properties – Composition and Soil Texture

• Drainage
• Topography and Slopes

• Soil Erosion

In site planning, it is important to establish the relationship between soil composition and land uses (other than
agriculture). Soil surveys help guide in site selection for residential, industrial, and other forms of development
that involve surface and subsurface structures.

Several features, or properties, are used to describe soil for use in site design. Of these ---

1. COMPOSITION
2. TEXTURE
are generally the most meaningful; from them we can make inferences about bearing capacity, internal drainage,
erodibility, and slope stability.
SOIL PROPERTIES:
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1. BEARING CAPACITY FOR ROCK AND SOIL MATERIALS

2. Class 3. 4. Material 5. Allowable

Bearing Value
(psf)

6. 1 7. Rock 8. Massive crystalline bedrock, e.g. granite, 9. 200,000

gneiss

10. 2 11. Metamorphosed rock, e.g. schist, slate 12. 80,000

13. 3 14. Sedimentary rocks, e.g. shale, sandstone 15. 30,000

16. 4 17. Soil 18. Well compacted gravels and sands 19. 20,000
materials
20. 5 21. Compact gravel, sand/gravel mixtures 22. 12,000

23. 6 24. Loose gravel, compact coarse sand 25. 8,000

26. 7 27. Loose coarse sand; loose sand/gravel 28. 6,000

mixtures, compact fine sand, wet coarse sand

29. 8 30. Loose fine sand, wet fine sand 31. 4,000

32. 9 33. Stiff clay (dry) 34. 8,000

35. 10 36. Medium-stiff clay 37. 4,000

38. 11 39. Soft clay 40. 2,000

41. 12 42. Fill, organic material, or silt 43. (fixed by field

tests)

44. Source: Code Manual, New York State Building Code Commission

1. COMPOSITION refers to the material that makes up soil:

a. Mineral Particles:
i. Mineral Particles comprise 50% to 80% of the volume of the soil and form the all
important skeletal structure of the soil.
ii. Sand and gravel particles provide for the greatest stability, usually yield a relat-ively
high bearing capacity,
iii. Bearing capacity is a soil’s resistance to penetration from a weighted object such as
a building foundation. (see table above)

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b. Organic Matter - varies radically in soils and usually imposes a limitation to any building
structure. Organic matter is important only for soil fertility, moisture absorption and retention
and for landscaping.
c. Water content varies with particle sizes, local drainage, topography and climate. Most water
occupies the spaces between particles; only in organic soils do the particles themselves
actually absorb measurable amounts of water.
d. Air is what occupies remaining space that is not occupied by water. In layers where
groundwater is formed by gravity water in the subsoil and underlying rock, there is absence of
air.

2. TEXTURE - is the term used to describe the composite sizes of particles in a soil sample.

*There are 12 basic terms for texture, at the center of which is Class LOAM, which is an intermediate mixture of
40% sand, 40% silt and 20% clay.

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 Far Eastern University 2nd Semester 2020-2021
Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts
DRAINAGE:
GOOD DRAINAGE refers to the soil’s ability to transfer gravity water
downward through:
1. Infiltration - the rate at which water penetrates the soil surface
(usually measured in cm or inches per hour);
2. Permeability - the rate at which water within the soil moves through
a given volume of material (also measured in cm or inches per
hour)
3. Percolation - the rate at which water in a soil pit or pipe within the
soil is taken up by the soil (used mainly in wastewater absorption
tests and measured in inches per hour)

POOR DRAINAGE - means that gravity water is not readily transmitted by the soil and soil is frequently or
permanently saturated and may have water standing on it caused by :

1. The local accumulation of water ;

2. A rise in the level of groundwater within the soil column;
3. The size of the particles in the soil being too small to transmit infiltration water.

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 Far Eastern University 2nd Semester 2020-2021
Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts

TOPOGRAPHY AND SLOPES

SLOPE ANALYSIS - Understanding slope forms for site design requires understanding of local geologic, soil,
hydrologic, and vegetative conditions.

SLOPE FORM - is expressed graphically in terms of a slope profile, a silhouette of a slope drawn to known
proportions with distance on the horizontal axis and elevation on the vertical axis
Four basic slope forms are detectable on contour maps: Straight, S-shaped, concave and convex.

ANGLE OF REPOSE - angle at which soil can be safely inclined and beyond which it will fail.

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 Far Eastern University 2nd Semester 2020-2021
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TOPOGRAPHIC MAP – a map of a portion of the earth that describes the shape of the earth’s surface by
contour lines.

7,000

6,000

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 Far Eastern University 2nd Semester 2020-2021
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Contours – are imaginary lines that join points of equal elevation
on the surface of the land above or below a reference surface
such as the mean sea level.

Contours make it possible to measure the height of mountains,

depth of the ocean bottoms, and steepness of slopes.

SLOPE ANALYSIS - is an important analytical process made on a topographic map that makes a proper match
between land uses and slopes and produces an overall pattern of slopes which helps the site planner in
determining the buildable portions of the site.

The process involves breaking down of topography into grades which will establish the desired patterns for a
given land use as in the following example :

SLOPE PATTERN for ELEMENTARY AND HIGH SCHOOL

CAMPUS

0 – 5% Generally flat Highly buildable

5 – 10% Gently rolling Moderately buildable
10 – 15% Gentle to mild Moderately difficult to build
15 – 20% Mild to steep slopes Difficult to build
20% and over Harsh, steep slopes Unbuildable

In the analysis of the slopes, the distances for each Slope Pattern
are computed from the given topographic map, for use on the
Slope Map.

To compute the Distance of a slope from a topographic contour

map:

D distance = (contour interval / % Slope) X 100

D distance = (10 meters / 5%) X 100

D distance = 200.00 m for slope pattern 0-5 %
*This distance unit will figure in the graduated scale that will be
constructed for use in the slope map.
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 Far Eastern University 2nd Semester 2020-2021
Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts

A Slope Map is prepared to visually express these slope patterns on the topographic map. Here’s how to:
a. Establish the site boundaries on the map.

b. Make a constructed graduated scale on the edge of a cardboard sheet, representing the distances of
each slope pattern (using same scale as the topo map).
c. Place the scale on the map (see illustration above) and mark the edges where the scale matches the
distances between contour lines.

d. Color- or hatch-code each area delineated by these edges.

The result is a colored or gradient-hatched SLOPE MAP.

DESIRABLE SLOPES – when slopes are selected according to building type and the activities associated with it.
-- Flat or gently sloping sites are preferred for industrial and commercial buildings

-- Hilly sites are preferred for fashionable suburban residences.

Slopes influence the alignment of modern roads according to class of roads; the higher the class, the lower the
maximum grades allowable.

SLOPE REQUIREMENTS FOR VARIOUS LAND USES

Land Use Maximum Minimum Optimum

Housing Sites 20% - 25% 0% 2%

Playgrounds 2% - 3% .05% 1%

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 Far Eastern University 2nd Semester 2020-2021
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Public Stairs 50% --- 25%

Lawns (mowed) 25% --- 2% -- 3%

Septic Drainfields* 15% 0% .05%

Paved Surfaces

Parking Lots 3% .05% 1%

Sidewalks 8% 0% 1%

Streets and Roads 15% -- 17% --- 1%

20 mph 12%

30 mph 10%

40 mph 8%

50 mph 7%

60 mph 5%

70 mph 4%

Industrial Sites

Factories 3% - 4% 0% 2%

Lay Down Storage 3% .05% 1%

Parking 3% .05% 1%

* Special drainfield designs are required at slopes above 10 to 12 percent.

SOIL EROSION – when rocks are broken down (weathered) into small fragments, and carried by wind, water, ice
and gravity. Energy for this process is solar and gravitational.

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 Far Eastern University 2nd Semester 2020-2021
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PREVENTION

Four factors to consider in forecasting erosion rates:

Vegetation | soil type | slope size and inclination | frequency and intensity of rainfall

1. Vegetation:

• Foliage intercepts raindrops

• Organic litter on the ground reduces impact of raindrops

• Roots bind together aggregates of soil particles

• Cover density, in form of ground cover or tree canopy, decreases soil loss to runoff

2. Soil Type:

• Intermediate textures like sand will usually yield (erode) first

• To erode clay, the velocity of the runoff should be high enough to overcome cohesive forces that bind
the particles together
• Similarly, high velocities would be needed to move masses of pebbles and particles larger than those of
sand

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 Far Eastern University 2nd Semester 2020-2021
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3. Slope Size and Inclination:

• The velocity of runoff is closely related to the slope of the ground over which it flows. Slopes that are
both steep and long produce the greatest erosion because they generate runoff that is high in velocity
and mass.

• Slope also influences the quantity of runoff since long slopes collect more rainfall and thus generate a
larger volume of runoff.

4. Frequency and Intensity of Rainfall:

• Intensive rainfalls produced by thunderstorms promote the highest rates of erosion.
• Accordingly, the incidence of storms plus total annual rainfall can be a reliable measure of the
effectiveness of rainfall in promoting soil erosion.

HYDROLOGY– the natural science that studies the Waters of the Earth, their occurrence, circulation and
distribution, their chemical and physical properties, and their reaction to the living environment including their
relation to all living things.

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Hydrologic cycle – or the planet’s water cycle, described by the movement of water from the oceans to the
atmosphere to the continents and back to the sea .

Water table – is the upper boundary of the zone of groundwater; the top of unconfined aquifer.

Aquifer – A permeable geological stratum or formation that can both store and transmit groundwater in
significant quantities.

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 Far Eastern University 2nd Semester 2020-2021
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Watershed – a geographic area of land bounded by topographic features and height of land that captures
precipitation, filters and stores water and drains waters to a shared destination. Knowledge of watershed
boundaries is critical to water quality and storm water management.

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 Far Eastern University 2nd Semester 2020-2021
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VEGETATION:
The relevance of Plant Materials in site planning is in their role in :

1. Climatic control

a. Solar Radiation – is Earth’s source of light and heat. It warms the earth’s surface, is reflected by
paving and other objects, and produces glare.
o Trees are one of the best controls for solar radiation because:
§ they block or filter sunlight;
§ they cool the air under their canopies providing natural air conditioning;
o Scientists have recorded that with an air temperature of 84deg F, surface temp of a
concrete paving was 108 deg, while surface temp under shade trees were 20deg lower.
b. Wind – helps to control temperature. When winds are of low velocity, they may be pleasant, but
when velocity increases, may cause discomfort or damage. Trees help to buffer winds in urban
areas caused by convection and Venturi effects.

c. Precipitation . Plants help to control precipitation reaching the ground. By intercepting rain and
slowing it down, they aid in moisture retention, and in the prevention of soil erosion. They also help
soil retain water by providing shade, or protection from the wind, or by water shedding function of
trees’ roots.

2. Environmental Engineering

a. Air Purification – Plants clean air through the process of photosynthesis where they use up
carbon dioxide emissions of cars and trucks and in the process release oxygen into the air.
Trees also help filter out other pollutants, i.e. sulfur dioxide, dust, pollen, and smoke.

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 Far Eastern University 2nd Semester 2020-2021
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b. Noise – To understand noise:
o The sound level of normal conversation is about 60 decibels; a plane taking off
produces 120 decibels at a distance of 200 ft. Sound energy usually spreads out
and dissipates in transmission. Sound waves can be absorbed, reflected or
deflected.
o Plants absorb sound waves through their leaves, branches, twigs, especially
those with thick fleshy leaves and thin petioles.
o Tree trunks deflect sounds and it has been estimated that a 100 ft. depth of forest
can reduce sound by 21 decibels.

c. Glare and Reflection – Plants reduce glare and reflection caused by sunlight. A light source
received directly produces primary glare while reflected light is secondary glare. Plants may be
used to filter or block glare by use of plants with the appropriate size, shape, and foliage density.
d. Erosion Control - Vegetation with extensive root systems imparts stability to slopes.
o On sandy slopes, the presence of woody vegetation can increase the angle of repose by 10
to 15 degrees.
o Vitiveria ziziainoides or Vitiver Grass ‘miracle’ grass of amazing bio-engineering
capabilities.

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 Far Eastern University 2nd Semester 2020-2021
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3. Architectural and Aesthetic Uses

a. Space Definition - as wall elements to form outdoor spaces, as canopies to provide shade, or as
ground covers to provide color and texture on the base plane.

b. View Control – While trees and shrubs can screen out objectionable views, they can also provide
backdrops for sculpture and fountains.

Additionally, they may provide filtered views of buildings or spaces, or frame a view, maximizing its
effect.

c. Mood – Plants affects peoples’ moods.

WILDLIFE:

Wildlife relates closely to habitats provided by plant communities. The three groups of habitat elements essential
to the different species of wildlife are:
1. Openland Wildlife – includes birds and mammals commonly associated with crop fields, meadows,
pastures, and non-forested lands. Habitat elements essential for openland wildlife include:
a. Grain and seed crops
b. Grasses and legumes
c. Wild herbaceous upland plants
d. Hardwood woody plants

2. Woodland Wildlife – These species need various combinations of:

a. Grasses and legumes

b. Wild herbaceous upland plants
c. Hardwood woody plants
d. Cone-bearing shrubs such as pines.
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 Far Eastern University 2nd Semester 2020-2021
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3. Wetland Wildlife – wetland species include birds and mammals needing habitats with:

a. Wetland food plants or wild herbaceous plants of moist to wet sites, excluding submerged or
floating aquatic plants;
b. Shallow water development with water impoundments not deeper than 5 ft.;
c. Excavated ponds with ample supply of water at least one acre and average 6ft depth.
d. streams

CLIMATE:

Climates can be generally classified into four types: COLD, TEMPERATE, HOT ARID and HOT HUMID.
In each, a site should be investigated in terms of:
a. Solar orientation for buildings;
b. The best facing slopes; and
c. Wind flows for breezes.

a. Solar orientation

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 Far Eastern University 2nd Semester 2020-2021
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b. Best facing slopes

• Temperatures vary with elevation – by about 3 deg for every 1000 ft. (300m) in the daytime.
• The more perpendicular a slope is to the rays of the sun, the warmer the surface
temperature.

c. Wind Flows for breezes.

• Abrupt forms cause unpleasant air turbulence.

• Smooth forms induce smooth flow of air.

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 Far Eastern University 2nd Semester 2020-2021
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SITE PLANNING CONCEPT USING NATURAL FACTORS:

PASSIVE COOLING – the technology of cooling spaces through proper siting of structure and use of energy-
efficient materials, with the overall objective of energy conservation.
• Solar Orientation
• Altitude
• Topography
• Vegetation
• Water Bodies
•

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 Far Eastern University 2nd Semester 2020-2021
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THE CULTURAL FACTORS
EXISTING LAND USE:

Land Use Plans are available in each city and municipality to determine the areas for commercial, institutional,
industrial, residential, and open space uses. These were planned according to the most rational use of land in
relation to the natural and socio-economic factors, and in accordance with compatibility with adjacent land uses.

Each site must conform to the land use plan: a residential subdivision, for example, cannot be developed in a site
designated as Industrial.

TRAFFIC AND TRANSIT SYSTEMS:

• The relationship of traffic pattern to each other and to the site must be studied for adequacy of access
and efficiency of circulation within and outside of the site.

• Efficient traffic and transportation systems will result in successful integration of the different
developments in the vicinity.

• Direction of dominant traffic flow, both vehicular and pedestrian will also help establish points of highest
visual impact for the site.

• Access must also consider pedestrian movement.

DENSITY AND ZONING:

• Density refers to the population per unit land area. This data will determine whether existing utilities and
land areas will be sufficient to sustain additional future development, which will naturally add to the
existing population and bear on the capacity of these utilities.

• Density is expressed in number of families or dwelling units per hectare. It may also be expressed in
Floor Area Ratio (FAR).

• Density influences the privacy, social contact among people, and freedom of movement of an individual
or a group of people.

• Zoning regulations, laws and codes are present in every city and municipality to regulate the type of
development. It divides the city or municipality into land use areas that are designated by building
height, building coverage, density of population, and open space.

SOCIO-ECONOMIC FACTORS:

• The study of the community and its social and economic structures are done to determine
whether there is a need, an interest, or any objections on the project.

• Any proposed project must be compatible with the economy of the particular community. For
example, a high-end boutique is hardly suitable in a low-income community.

• The social structure of the community must be taken into consideration to ensure that a
proposed development will not result in any displaced families, and any major disruption in their
businesses and other activities.

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 Far Eastern University 2nd Semester 2020-2021
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UTILITIES / SERVICES:

It is important to determine the existing availability of utilities on site in terms of adequacy and efficiency. This
includes:
• Sanitary/sewage system
• Electric power supply
• Water supply
• Drainage

Most water systems will supply domestic, industrial, and fire stand-by supply from a distribution system. Storm
drains collect surface water and conduct it to rivers, creeks, or other bodies of water.

HISTORIC FACTORS:

1. Historic Buildings
2. Historic Landmarks
3. Archeology

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 Far Eastern University 2nd Semester 2020-2021
Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts

THE AESTHETIC FACTORS

NATURAL FEATURES:

When sites are characterized by outstanding natural features

of earth, rock, water or plant material, these may be
incorporated in the site development as natural assets of the
land.

SPATIAL PATTERNS:

Spatial pattern is defined as the way an open space of a given site is configured according to an arrangement of
elements that evoke activity or flow, both physically or visually.

VISUAL RESOURCES:

1. View – is a scene observed from a vantage point.

• A view can be a theme that may suggest and give added meaning to buildings.
• The full view is not always the best view.

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 Far Eastern University 2nd Semester 2020-2021
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2. Vista – is a confined view, usually directed toward a terminal or dominant feature. It has three components: a
viewing station, a view, and a foreground.

• A view is usually better if enframed or seen

through an appropriate screen.

SAMPLE OFSCHEMATIC SITE ANALYSIS

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REFERENCES

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Site Analysis
In residential design
Location
The site should be related to major streets or
landmarks previously existing.

Neighborhood context
Zoning of the neighborhood
architectural patterns
street lighting
condition of existing buildings
existing paths (pedestrian, cyclist, and
vehicle)
Landmarks
nodes
Site and zoning
Site boundaries can be located by either
verifying the dimensions physically or
contacting the county tax assessor’s office.
Zoning classifications, set-backs, height
restrictions, allowable site coverage, uses,
and parking requirements are obtained by
obtaining zoning classifications from a zoning
map, which can be located from the city
planning department

Legal
Typical legal information can be obtained
from the deed to the property. The deed is
held by the owner of the title insurance
company. In the deed is information such as
the property description, present ownership,
and the governmental jurisdiction the site is
located in, and the city or county.

Natural physical features

Most of this information will be derived from
the topographic features on the site. A
contour map of this magnitude can be
located from the survey engineer. Drainage
problems as well as existing natural features
of trees, ground cover, ground texture, and
soil conditions on the site should be directly
observed.
Man made features
Features located on the site such as
buildings, walls, fences, patios, plazas, bus
stop shelters should be noted. The site and
location of such features should be directly
measured. Documentation of existing
historical districts should be made, some of
which may already have reports completed.
Locating this information can be done
through the municipal planning department
for the site.

Circulation
The uses of streets, roads, alleys, sidewalks
and plazas are important in this inventory
step. It is not necessarily an analysis of thes
elements but more an analysis of what
occurs on these circulation gateways.

Utilities
Information for utilities concerning the site
can be found through the utility departments
and companies in the local area. Generally,
the company has a print of the drawing of
this information needed. Information in this
print includes the location of all utilities and
their locations around or on the site itself.
Sensory[
Much of the sensory information collected
will be done through firsthand experience.
The information is obtained from sketching
and photographs (sometimes aerial
photographs). Direct observation of other
sensory elements of noise, odors, smoke,
and pollutant areas must also be completed.

Human and cultural

This information can be obtained through
census statistics on the neighborhood.
Information regarding these statistics is
available from the local municipal planning
agency. This information includes activities
among people on the site and their
relationships to these activities.

Climate
This information can be obtained through the
local weather service Conditions such
as rainfall, snowfall, humidity,
and temperature over months must be
considered and analyzed. The sun-path and
vertical sun angles throughout an entire year
are important to note.
Standards on Building Parts
________________________________________
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Green Architecture
WEEK 14 MODULE
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ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN 2 CLUSTER
WEEK 14 MODULE: Green Architecture
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ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN CLUSTER

1. Green Building
• A building that, in its design,
construction or operation, reduces or
eliminates negative impacts, and can
create positive impacts, on our climate
and natural environment

Net Lima Building. Image retrieved from

<https://www.thefortcity.com/article/recommended/green-
buildings-at-the-fort>
WEEK 14 MODULE: Green Architecture
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2. Principles and Features

• Efficient use of energy, water, and other resources
• Use of renewable energy, such as solar energy
• Pollution and waste reduction measures, and the enabling of re-use and recycling
• Good indoor environmental air quality
• Use of materials that are non-toxic, ethical, and sustainable
• Consideration of the environment in design, construction, and operation
• Consideration of the quality of life of occupants in design, construction, and operation
• A design that enables adaptation to a changing environment
WEEK 14 MODULE: Green Architecture
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3. Basic Considerations
A. Community and Site Selection
• Protection of sensitive sites
• Site preservation and restoration
• Protection of natural features
• Heat island reduction
• Site waste management
• Transportation issues
• Minimizing light pollution
• Site strategies and energy use
• Other site issues

A cottage in Bali. Image retrieved from

<https://www.reddit.com/r/CozyPlaces/comments/8jc3bn/inviting
_bamboo_home_near_a_river_in_bali/>
WEEK 14 MODULE: Green Architecture
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3. Basic Considerations
B. Building Considerations
• Floor area
• Surface area
• Orientation
• Overhangs and awning
• Solar panels
• Building façade
• Rainwater harvesting
• Use of the roof

Rooftop gardens. Image retrieved from

<https://capitolgreenroofs.com/caring-for-your-
rooftop-garden/>
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4. Green Architecture vs Sustainable Design

• Sustainability is “a
development that meets the
needs of the present without
compromising the ability of
future generations to meet
their own needs”.
• Three pillars of sustainability –
economic, social, and
environmental
• Green architecture mostly
focuses on the environmental
aspect.
The three pillars of sustainability. Image retrieved from
<https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11625-018-0627-5>
WEEK 14 MODULE: Green Architecture
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4. Green Building Rating

Systems
• Rating systems are a type of
building certification system that
rates or rewards relative levels of
compliance or performance with
specific environmental goals and
requirements
• Examples: Leadership in Energy
and Environmental Design (LEED)
and Building for Ecologically
Responsive Design Excellence
(BERDE)

Metrics of LEED. Image retrieved from

<https://www.homelectrical.com/leed-certification-why-should-my-
building-be-leed-certified.6.html>
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5. The Philippine Green

Building Code
• Launched in 2015 by DPWH
• The performance standards of the Code
include energy efficiency, water efficiency,
material sustainability, solid waste
management, site sustainability, and
indoor environmental quality.

Philippine Green Building Code. Image retrieved from

<https://www.dpwh.gov.ph/dpwh/sites/default/files/Philippine%20Gre
en%20Building%20Code%20-%20Process.pdf>
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References

• Ching, F. D. K. & Shapiro, I. (2014). Green Building Illustrated. John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
• Coalition for Responsible and Equitable Economic Development (CREED LA). (2018, March
30). The Difference Between Green Design and Sustainable Design. https://creedla.com/the-
difference-between-green-design-and-sustainable-design/
• Department of Public Works and Highways. (2015). The Philippine Green Building Code.
• Philippine Green Building Council. (n.d.). BERDE Online. https://berdeonline.org/
• United States Green Building Council (USGBC). (n.d.). LEED Rating System.
https://www.usgbc.org/leed
• Vierra, S. (2019, May 8). Green Building Standards and Certification Systems.
https://www.wbdg.org/resources/green-building-standards-and-certification-systems
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References
• Wooley, T., Kimmins, S., Harrison, P., & Harrison, R. (2005). Green Building Handbook
Volume 1. Taylor & Francis.
• World Commission on Environment and Development. (1987). Our Common Future: Report
of the World Commission on Environment and Development. UN Documents.
https://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/content/documents/5987our-common-future.pdf
• World Green Building Council. (n.d.). About Green Building. https://www.worldgbc.org/what-
green-building
 Far Eastern University 2nd Semester 2020-2021
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WEEK 14 MODULE: GREEN BUILDING / GREEN ARCHITECTURE

1. What is a Green Building?

According to the World Green Building Council (n.d.), “a ‘green’ building is a building that, in its design, construction
or operation, reduces or eliminates negative impacts, and can create positive impacts, on our climate and natural
environment. Green buildings preserve precious natural resources and improve our quality of life”.

2. Principles and Features of a Green Building

To make a building ‘green’, the World Building Council (n.d.) cite the following features to consider:
• Efficient use of energy, water, and other resources
• Use of renewable energy, such as solar energy
• Pollution and waste reduction measures, and the enabling of re-use and recycling
• Good indoor environmental air quality
• Use of materials that are non-toxic, ethical, and sustainable
• Consideration of the environment in design, construction, and operation
• Consideration of the quality of life of occupants in design, construction, and operation
• A design that enables adaptation to a changing environment

In addition, according to Wooley et al. (2005), “producing green buildings involves resolving many conflicting issues
and requirements. Each design decision, even the decision about what to build or where to build or even whether
to build at all has environmental implications. Decisions about layout, relationship with site, the effects of wind and
weather, possible use of solar energy, orientation, shading, ventilation, specification of materials and structural
systems, must all be evaluated in terms of their impact on the environment and the occupants of buildings” (p. 6).
Given these complex issues and factors, Wooley et al. (2005) found it useful to group consideration of green
building under four headings:

(a) Reducing Energy in Use

for example
• Use maximum possible low embodied energy insulation, but with good ventilation
• Use low energy lighting and electrical appliances
• Use efficient, low pollution heating
• Make use of passive and active solar energy wherever feasible Use passive and natural
ventilation systems rather than mechanical

(b) Minimizing External Pollution and Environmental Damage

for example
• Design in harmonious relationship with the surroundings
• Avoid destruction of natural habitats
• Re-use rainwater on site
• Treat and recycle wastewater on site if possible
• Try to minimize extraction of materials unless good environmental controls exist and avoid
materials which produce damaging chemicals as a by-product Do not dump waste materials
off site but re-use on site

(c) Reducing Embodied Energy and Resource Depletion

for example

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• Use locally sourced materials
• Use materials found on site
• Minimize use of imported materials
• Use materials from sustainably managed sources
• Keep use of materials from non-renewable sources to a minimum
• Use low energy materials, keeping high embodied energy materials to a minimum
• Use second hand/recycled materials where appropriate
• Re-use existing buildings and structures instead of always assuming that new buildings are
required

(d) Minimizing Internal Pollution and Damage to Health

for example
• Use non-toxic material, or low emission materials
• Avoid fibers from insulation materials getting into the atmosphere
• Ensure good natural ventilation
• Reduce dust and allergens
• Reduce impact of electromagnetic fields (EMFs)
• Create positive character in the building and relationship with site Involve users in design
and management of building and evaluating environmental choices

3. Basic Considerations for a Green Building Design

Listed below are some of the basic considerations that design professionals might consider when planning and
designing for a green building according to Ching and Shapiro (2014).

A. Community and Site Selection

Primary goals in community and site selection for green buildings include protecting sensitive sites,
preserving undeveloped sites, restoring and reusing previously developed sites, reducing impact on flora
and fauna, promoting connection to community, and minimizing transportation impacts both on the
environment and energy use.

As we seek to picture the building in a community, we ask whether renovating a derelict building downtown
might be a better option than building on an undeveloped rural site. We ask whether an infill site is
available in an urban setting. Or we ask whether a site is available that is close to public transportation,
even if in a suburban or rural location. We might check with our local planning department to learn whether
any community developments are under way that might mitigate the environmental impact of the new
construction. Instead of thinking as individuals, we try to think as a community.

a. Protection of Sensitive Sites

Green building projects give priority to protecting sensitive sites. Definitions of sensitive sites are
generally governed by federal statute or regulation and typically include such areas as prime
farmland, parkland, flood hazard areas, habitat for endangered or threatened species, primary dunes,
old-growth forests, wetlands, other water bodies, and conservation areas.

b. Site Preservation and Restoration

Greenfields are defined as previously undeveloped areas. Brownfields are abandoned or underused
industrial and commercial facilities that have actual or perceived levels of environmental
contamination. Greyfields are previously developed areas that are not contaminated, do not require
remediation, but have a visible residue of development and infrastructure, such as vacant buildings,
utilities, and asphalt. Sites that have been previously developed but are neither known greyfields nor
brownfields are loosely referred to as previously developed sites. It is important to note that previously
cleared, farmed, or forested lands are typically regarded as greenfields.

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 Far Eastern University 2nd Semester 2020-2021
Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts
In green building development, restoration and reuse of brownfield sites is regarded positively
because it accomplishes two distinct goals. First, it prevents development of greenfields or otherwise
sensitive areas; secondly, the development process includes remediation of any environmental
contamination. Similarly, development on greyfield sites and other previously developed sites is
encouraged.

c. Protection of Natural Features

Green design seeks to protect existing soil conditions. A written soil protection plan is typically a
requirement for green building projects. Strategies include retaining soils in place, stockpiling and
reusing soils, restoring soils disturbed during construction, revegetation of disturbed and restored
soils, careful planning of construction staging and parking areas, and measures to prevent soil runoff
or wind erosion during construction. Topsoil that is required to be brought onto a site should not
originate in sensitive areas.

Protection of vegetation and the re-introduction of plant life are also desirable on the basis of their
carbon-absorbing characteristics.

d. Heat Island Reduction

The heat island effect refers to the absorption and retention of incoming solar radiation by the
buildings and hardscape of urban areas. When this heat is released into the surrounding atmosphere,
relatively distinct heat islands can be formed, having higher temperatures than their rural
surroundings. The heat island effect can be exacerbated by the energy use of buildings and their
interfering with the ability of the wind to carry away heat.

e. Site Waste Management

In preparing a site for construction, much waste is generated, often before construction materials
have even been brought onsite. Site waste includes debris such as rocks, soil, and vegetation. Green
building projects should prevent such debris from being transported to landfills or to sensitive sites.
Strategies include reusing materials onsite and recycling debris offsite. Similarly, hazardous debris
needs to be handled in an environmentally sensitive manner. A green building project should have a
plan for managing building site waste, preferably one that is integrated with the construction materials
waste management plan, to be discussed later.

f. Transportation Issues
Beyond site selection, which impacts available forms of transportation and ultimately transportation
energy use and pollution, further decisions can be made to promote greener forms of transportation.

Careful site planning incorporates facilities that encourage less polluting modes of transportation.
Examples include installing bicycle racks, incorporating facilities for storing and covering bicycles,
and providing pedestrian paths for access. Because the safety of pedestrians and bicyclists fosters
walking and biking, providing sidewalks, dedicated bicycle lanes, and onsite traffic signs are highly
desirable.

g. Minimizing Light Pollution

Light pollution is the introduction of artificial light into the outdoor environment. Its impacts are many.
Light pollution disrupts natural diurnal patterns of light and dark and the rhythms of life to which plants,
animals, and humans have adapted, interrupting circadian sleep cycles, interfering with normal plant
growth, and disturbing the habitat of nocturnal wildlife.

h. Site Strategies and Energy Use

Site selection can have a significant effect on energy use. An unprotected building on an exposed
hilltop will use more energy than a building sheltered by trees or adjacent buildings. This is because
wind carries heat away from a building in the winter and forces hot outside air into the building in the
summer.

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 Far Eastern University 2nd Semester 2020-2021
Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts
i. Other Site Issues
Interestingly, trees and other vegetation, which can be so helpful for shading and protecting a building
from the energy effects of sun and wind exposure, can adversely contribute to high humidity and
other indoor environmental problems if located too close to buildings. Trees and vegetation can also
threaten a building’s structure with their roots and branches. Vines can penetrate storm windows,
separate windows from their frames, and do extensive damage to siding and roofs on buildings.
Buildings need a buffer zone to protect them from such vegetation and this buffer zone serves as a
layer of shelter. The one exception may be purposefully vegetated roofs, which provides protection
in the form of reducing heat island effects, lessening storm water runoff, and absorbing carbon dioxide
in the air.

B. Building Considerations

a. Floor Area
The floor area of a building, simply put, impacts material and energy use because the larger the
building, not only is more material needed to build the structure, but more energy is needed for
heating and cooling, lighting, ventilation, and for other energy loads that scale with size.

b. Surface Area
A second geometric characteristic of buildings, surface area, can also be determined to reduce
energy use. By surface area, we mean specifically the exterior surfaces that meet the outdoors.
Heat is lost from a building in winter in direct proportion to the building’s surface area. In summer,
the surface area also strongly impacts cooling requirements. Because energy use in most
buildings is dominated by heating and cooling, surface area becomes a critical characteristic of
a building’s energy efficiency.

Similarly, reducing the surface area of a building significantly reduces material use and
construction cost because the exterior walls and roof of a building are material-intensive.

c. Orientation
Orientation affects how much solar gain is captured for useful heat in winter, and conversely how
much cooling is required due to unwanted solar gains in summer. Orientation will also affect how
much air flows through a building due to differentials in wind pressure.

d. Overhangs and Awning

Overhangs shield walls and windows from water intrusion and protect building materials, such
as wood and some types of caulk, from deterioration caused by exposure to the sun's ultraviolet
rays. Exterior shutters can serve similar purposes. There is far greater value in blocking the sun
before it reaches a building rather than trying to shield its rays with blinds or shades indoors,
after they have passed through windows and carried heat into the building.

e. Solar Panels
Solar panels consist of an array of either solar thermal collectors or photovoltaic modules. As we
design from the outside in, it is important to direct attention to potential location for solar panels
before finalizing the roof design for a building.

f. Building Façade
Proceeding from the outside in, a building’s facade plays a central role in green building design.
Windows, window-to-wall ratio, doors, decorative features, floor-to-floor height, roof lines, the
entrance and lobby, exterior lighting, and interior lighting seen from outdoors— these all
contribute to the critical view of a building from the outside. Many of these elements also
contribute substantially to a building’s energy use. The place of the facade in the development
of a building’s appearance relates strongly to its sequence in design, typically developed as one
of the first elements of the building’s conceptualization. Importantly, early renderings often are
developed before energy design occurs. These renderings can receive owner approvals as well

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 Far Eastern University 2nd Semester 2020-2021
Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts
as other authorizations, such as from local zoning boards, and subsequently can establish
expectations before energy tradeoffs have been evaluated, thereby preventing energy
optimization.

g. Rainwater Harvesting
Aspects of rainwater harvesting should be developed during the consideration of near-building
features. For example, drains and downspouts need to be coordinated to route rainwater to a
single point, preferably to maximize storage for future use, rather than simply away from the
building and to the storm drainage system. If this storage is outside a building, its location should
be carefully evaluated

h. Use of the Roof

Green buildings have many features that require roof space. In addition to conventional roof-
mounted components, such as heating and cooling equipment and exhaust fans, and other roof
uses, such as patios and penthouses, a variety of green features may compete for roof space:
• Solar photovoltaic modules
• Solar thermal collectors and possibly storage components
• Skylights or monitors for daylighting
• Vegetation for green roofs

4. Green vs Sustainable

When dealing with green building design, the word “sustainable” is often mentioned. In some cases, these two
terms are used interchangeably. While related, these concepts are distinct from each other.

Sustainability is “a development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future
generations to meet their own needs” (World Commission on Environment and Development, 1987). It is a holistic
approach comprising three pillars: (1) economic, (2) social, and (3) environmental.

The main difference between green design and sustainable design is that sustainability has a broader scope which
extends to the pillars of economic and social development, apart from the environmental aspect which the green
architecture mostly deals with. As how CREED L.A. (2018) simplifies it, “the main intent [of sustainable design] is
not to build a structure, but to build a future. Ideally, it should help people envision a better world.”

5. Green Building Rating Systems

“Green building rating or certification systems broaden the focus beyond the product to consider the project as a
whole. Rating systems are a type of building certification system that rates or rewards relative levels of compliance
or performance with specific environmental goals and requirements” (Vierra, 2019). Examples of green building
rating systems are the following:

A. Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)

The LEED green building certification system is developed by the United States Green Building Council.
It has rating tools for all building types (residential, commercial, etc.) and building phases (new
construction, fit outs, operations and maintenance, etc.). LEED metrics include energy savings, water
efficiency, carbon dioxide emissions reduction, indoor environmental quality, and stewardship of
resources and their impacts. The rating system is points-based and a project can earn one of the rating
levels: Certified (40 – 49 points), Silver (50 – 59 points), Gold (60 – 79 points), or Platinum (80+ points).

B. Building for Ecologically Responsive Design Excellence (BERDE)

“In 2009, the BERDE Program was established by the Philippine Green Building Council (PHILGBC) as
an appropriate response to the Philippine building industry's need to proactively address the negative
impacts of climate change. The program was established to develop the Philippines' own national

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 Far Eastern University 2nd Semester 2020-2021
Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts
voluntary green building rating system to facilitate green building projects in the country, inspire
confidence in the industry, and build trust in the industry” (Philippine Green Building Council, n.d.). BERDE
credit points are earned across the core framework which includes management, use of land and ecology,
energy efficiency and conservation, water efficiency and conservation, waste management, green
materials, transportation, indoor environment quality, and emissions. The level of rating is granted from
one star (lowest) to five stars (highest).

While green building rating systems aim to contribute to environmental protection through more ecologically friendly
construction, they are without their limitations. Ching and Shapiro (2014) states that “Some buildings certified as
green according to one of the green building standards have been found to be, in fact, high energy users or in
some other way polluting. Conversely, many zero-energy or near zero- energy buildings have been successfully
designed and built but have not been certified as green by any rating system. This is not to question the
environmental performance of all certified green buildings. Green building standards and certification systems have
contributed immeasurably to the advancement of sustainable design and will continue to do so. However, we may
still have a way to go before a green building certification guarantees a high level of energy efficiency or low level
of pollution”.

6. The Philippine Green Building Code

In 25 June 2015, the Department of Public Works and Highways launched the Philippine Green Building Code
which is a referral code to the National Building Code of the Philippines (PD 1096). It aims to counteract the harmful
effects of climate change. Further, the Code seeks to improve the efficiency of building performance through a
framework of standards that will enhance sound environmental and resource management to counter harmful
gases, throughout the building’s life cycle, including efficient use of materials, site selection, planning, design,
construction, use, occupancy, operation and maintenance, without significant increase in cost.

The performance standards of the of the Code include energy efficiency, water efficiency, material sustainability,
solid waste management, site sustainability, and indoor environmental quality.

REFERENCES

Ching, F. D. K. & Shapiro, I. (2014). Green Building Illustrated. John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Coalition for Responsible and Equitable Economic Development (CREED LA). (2018, March 30). The Difference
Between Green Design and Sustainable Design. https://creedla.com/the-difference-between-green-design-and-
sustainable-design/

Department of Public Works and Highways. (2015). The Philippine Green Building Code.

Philippine Green Building Council. (n.d.). BERDE Online. https://berdeonline.org/

United States Green Building Council (USGBC). (n.d.). LEED Rating System. https://www.usgbc.org/leed

Vierra, S. (2019, May 8). Green Building Standards and Certification Systems.
https://www.wbdg.org/resources/green-building-standards-and-certification-systems

Wooley, T., Kimmins, S., Harrison, P., & Harrison, R. (2005). Green Building Handbook Volume 1. Taylor &
Francis.

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 Far Eastern University 2nd Semester 2020-2021
Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts
World Commission on Environment and Development. (1987). Our Common Future: Report of the World
Commission on Environment and Development. UN Documents.
https://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/content/documents/5987our-common-future.pdf

World Green Building Council. (n.d.). About Green Building. https://www.worldgbc.org/what-green-building

ARC 1402: ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN 2

MODULAR DESIGN FOR
FILIPINO RESIDENTIAL
BUILDINGS
ARC 1402 – Architectural Design 2
Week 15 Lecture
MODULAR DESIGN

Modular design or “modularity in design” is a design

approach that subdivides a system into smaller parts
called modules or skids that can be independently
created and then used in different systems. A modular
system is characterized by functional partitioning into
discrete scalable and reusable modules, rigorous use of
well-defined modular interfaces and making use of
industry standards for interfaces.
The benefits of modular design are flexibility in design
and reduction in costs. Examples of modular systems
are modular buildings, solar panels, wind turbines and
so on. Modular design combines the advantages of
standardization with those of customization. A downside
to modularity is that low quality modular systems are not
optimized for performance.

hhttps://www.theuknewspaper.co.uk/johnathan-bulmer-are-modular-buildings-the-
solution-to-constructions-environment-problem/
The Origin of Modular Design
Historically, in classical architecture, the diameter of a
column was used as basis for a number of modules.
In Japanese architecture, room sizes were determined
by combinations of rice mats which were 90x180cm.
Matila Ghyka’s work on the golden section was one of
the sources of the Modulor, but his work, in general,
was used by other architects, such as Le Corbusier’s
rival Andre Lurcat. Lurcat proposed his own range of
proportions related to the work of builders as much as to
that of designers. Proportions and modules – thus
became a central issue in the postwar French
reconstruction, as architects struggled to maintain their
status amid changing procedures in building production
(Cohen, 2014).
http://www.fondationlecorbusier.fr/corbuweb/morpheus.aspx?sysId=13&IrisObjectId=7837
&sysLanguage=en-
en&itemPos=82&itemCount=215&sysParentId=65&sysParentName=home
Modular Architecture versus Integral Architecture
There are many ways of categorizing architecture.
Architecture can be either modular or integral. In reality,
fully modular or fully integral architecture is rare and
almost all architecture is somewhere in between.

On one hand, modular architecture has functionally de-

coupled interfaces between components. In practice,
this often leads to architecture that is one, where the
functional elements in the building are mapped one-to-
one to the components of the design. However, integral
architecture is the opposite of modular architecture.
Integral architecture has coupled interfaces between
components. It tends to have more complex (not one-to-
one) mapping from functional elements in the function
structure to the components of the design (Holtta,
2005).
The Challenge of Modularity
Modularity means using the same module in multiple
configurations enabling a large variety of designs without
using many component types. This modularity brings
several advantages such as reduced capital requirements
and economies. Modularity is especially advantageous
when the scale and scope of the project are relatively
large. In such cases, it is a practical and economic option.
Through modularity, you can achieve various designs,
while achieving low-cost for development, as well as, cost
saving in design and construction. Thus, you find that
modularity is pushing out the productivity frontier in design
creation (McCluskey, 2000).

On the contrary, modularity may lead to excess cost due to

over-design, inefficient performance, and too many
common modules may result in loss of design identity.
http://www.constructionexec.com/article/take-advantage-of-innovations-in-
prefabrication-and-modular-construction

https://www.wbdg.org/resources/site-and-modular-construction-
explained
Modular Design Approach
It is significant to use the modular approach in architectural
designs. Modular design is characterized by properties
such as upgradability, serviceability, flexibility and so on.
Also, the beauty of modular architecture is that you can
replace or add any module without affecting the rest of the
system. But, how important is it to encourage designers to
use modularity? The answer is in the way we use
modularity and the objectives of modular systems. Thin of
all the infinite numbers of architectural designs and forms
we can create with a simple set of modules.
MODULAR BUILDINGS
A modular building is a prefabricated building that consists
of repeated sections called modules. Modularity involves
constructing sections away from the building site, then
delivering them to the intended site. Installation of the
prefabricated sections is completed on site. Prefabricated
sections are sometimes placed using a crane. The
modules can be placed side-by-side, end-to-end, or
stacked, allowing for a variety of configurations and styles.
After placement, the modules are joined together using
inter-module connections, also known as inter-
connections. The inter-connections tie the individual
modules together to form the overall building structure.
http://dbmodularbuildings.com/
Uses of Modular Buildings
Modular buildings may be used for long-term, temporary
or permanent facilities, such as construction camps,
schools and classrooms, civilian and military housing, and
industrial facilities. Other uses have included churches,
health care facilities, sales and retail offices, fast food
restaurants and cruise ship construction. They can also be
used in areas that have weather concerns, such as
hurricanes. Modular buildings are often used to provide
temporary facilities, including toilets and ablutions at
events. The portability of the buildings makes them popular
with hire companies and clients alike. The use of modular
buildings enables events to be held at locations where
existing facilities are unavailable, or unable to support the
number of event attendees.
https://vestamodular.com/blog/modular-buildings-for-disaster-response/
Construction Process
Construction is offsite, using lean manufacturing techniques
to prefabricate single or multi-story buildings in deliverable
module sections. Often, modules are based around standard
20 foot containers, using the same dimensions, structures,
building and stacking/placing techniques, but with smooth
(instead of corrugated) walls, glossy white paint, and
provisions for windows, power, potable water, sewage lines,
telecommunications and air conditioning. Permanent
Modular Construction (PMC) buildings are manufactured in a
controlled setting and can be constructed of wood, steel, or
concrete. Modular components are typically constructed
indoors on assembly lines. Modules' construction may take
as little as ten days but more often one to three months.
PMC modules can be integrated into site built projects or
stand alone and can be delivered with MEP, fixtures and
interior finishes.
https://ec-cosmohome.com/the-benefits-of-modular-building-for-all-sectors/
Advantages
Modular buildings are argued to have advantages over
conventional buildings, for a variety of reasons.
Speed of construction/faster return on investment.
Modular construction allows for the building and the site work
to be completed simultaneously. According to some
materials, this can reduce the overall completion schedule by
as much as 50%. This also reduces labor, financing and
supervision costs.

https://vanguardmodular.com/about-modular/
To save even more time and money, nearly all design and
engineering disciplines are part of the manufacturing
process. Also unique to modular construction is the ability to
simultaneously construct a building's floors, walls, ceilings,
rafters, and roofs. During site-built construction, walls cannot
be set until floors are in position, and ceilings and rafters
cannot be added until walls are erected. On the other hand,
with modular construction, walls, floors, ceilings, and rafters
are all built at the same time, and then brought together in
the same factory to form a building. This process can allow
modular construction times of half that of conventional, stick-
built construction.
Indoor construction. Assembly is
independent of weather, which can
increase work efficiency and
avoids damaged building material.
Ability to service remote
locations. Particularly in countries
in which potential markets may be
located far from industrial centers,
such as Australia, there can be
much higher costs to build a site-
built house in a remote area or an
area experiencing a construction https://www.wbglobal.com.au/wb-prefab-modular-
construction.html
boom such as mining towns.
Modular buildings are also
beneficial in providing medical and
sanitary facilities where time,
space, and money are an issue.
Low waste. With the same plans being constantly built,
the manufacturer has records of exactly what quantity of
materials are needed for a given job. With the consistency,
builders can design systems that use common lengths of
lumber, wallboard, etc., cut items with maximum efficiency, or
be able to order special lengths in bulk. While waste from a
site-built dwelling may typically fill several large dumpsters,
construction of a modular dwelling generates much less
waste. According to the UK group WRAP, up to a 90%
reduction in materials can be achieved through the use of
modular construction. Materials minimized include: wood
pallets, shrink wrap, cardboard, plasterboard, timber,
concrete, bricks, and cement.
http://www.modular.org/htmlPage.aspx?name=Eliminate_Waste
Environmentally friendly construction process. Modular
construction reduces waste and site disturbance compared
to site-built structures. The controlled environment of the
factory allows for more accurate construction while allowing
the extra materials to be recycled in-house.
Flexibility. One can continually add to a modular building,
including creating high rises. When the needs change,
modular buildings can be disassembled and the modules
relocated or refurbished for their next use reducing the
demand for raw materials and minimizing the amount of
energy expended to create a building to meet the new need.
In essence, the entire building can be recycled in some
cases.
https://www.wintechmodular.co.uk/about-us/design-service/
Quality. Combining traditional building techniques, quality
manufacturing and third-party agencies who offer random
inspections, testing, and certification services for quality
control, commercial modular buildings are built in strict
accordance with appropriate local, state, and national
regulations and codes. Due to the need to transport modules
to the final site, each module must be built to independently
withstand travel and installation requirements. Thus the final
module-to-module assembly of independently durable
components can yield a final product that is more durable
than site-built structures.
Improved Air Quality –
Many of the indoor air
quality issues identified
in new construction result
from high moisture levels
in the framing materials.
Because the modular
structure is substantially
completed in a factory-
controlled setting using
dry materials, the
potential for high levels
of moisture being https://www.ny-engineers.com/blog/how-construction-materials-
influence-air-quality

trapped in the new

construction is
eliminated.
Disadvantages
Volumetric: Transporting the completed modular
building sections take up a lot of space.
Flexibility: Due to transport and sometimes
manufacturing restrictions, module size can be limited,
affecting room sizes.

https://www.pinterest.ph/pin/630011435343635951/
Examples of Modular Buildings

Torten Estate, Dessau / Walter Gropius and

Hannes Meyer / 1926-28
Gropius had been working on the concept of a
“Hausbaufabrik” (home building factory) since
1916, in response to the stagnation of building
activity during the First World War and the
consequent lack of affordable housing for workers.
The Torten Estate of 314 cube-like terraced
houses, commissioned by the municipality of
Dessau, was his first opportunity to put this theory
into practice. With the German economy in
perpetual crisis, the need to build cheaply was
paramount. The loadbearing walls were made of
prefabricated and inexpensive hollow slag-concrete
blocks; the ceilings with Gropius’ Rapidbalken
system of reinforced concrete joists. All of the
structural components were prefabricated on site
and craned into position. However, almost as soon
as the houses were finished, a number of
construction defects became evident, and
residents quickly set about making their own
alterations.

https://www.the-possible.com/six-examples-of-
modular-construction/
 https://www.the-possible.com/six-examples-of-
modular-construction/

Dymaxion House / Richard Buckminster Fuller / 1945

Fuller designed a mass-produced, lightweight aluminium house in the late 1920s, but a prototype of the 100m2 “dwelling
machine” wasn’t built until after the Second World War. Again, a post-war housing shortage provided the impetus, and the
sudden spare capacity of the aircraft industry was to provide the materials and assembly lines. It’s striking how Fuller’s
design seems to address a number of modern concerns: A 10m-long Plexiglass living-room window drew in natural light,
the circular form reduced heat loss, the home had an easily adaptable floorplan and featured water recycling, wind
turbines and natural ventilation. The idea was for it to be priced like a car, to be paid off in five years, and buyers would
receive their home flat-packed in a metal tube. In April 1946, Fortune magazine predicted that “the ‘dwelling machine’ was
likely to produce greater social consequences than the introduction of the automobile”. But, largely due to Fuller’s
unwillingness to compromise with manufacturers, no metal tubes were ever delivered.
 https://www.the-possible.com/six-examples-of-
modular-construction/

Habitat 67, Montreal / Moshe Safdie / 1967

Safdie’s cuboid block of 158 flats pioneered the idea of modular high-rise housing. The complex stack of
concrete boxes was connected by high-tension rods, steel cables and welding. The arrangement allowed for 15
different housing types, with gardens and terraces filling the voids. There were also six elevator pillars providing
vertical access. Unusually, prefabrication of the concrete modules took place on site in a purpose-built factory.
Safdie believed this to be the most cost-efficient solution, but costs still spiralled to C$22 million, or about
C$140,000 per home. The Habitat concept has endured though, not least in Safdie’s own work. His 2012 Sky
Habitat project in Singapore uses many of the same architectural devices to create a series of interconnected
streets, gardens and terraces in the air.
 Nakagin Capsule Tower, Tokyo / Kisho
Kurokawa / 1972
The 13-storey Nakagin Capsule Tower was
the world’s first permanent example of
plug-in architecture. The building is
composed of 140 self-contained
prefabricated concrete capsules, each
measuring 2.3m x 3.8m x 2.1m and
connected to the shaft with just four high-
tension bolts. The capsules were delivered
to site already fitted out as small living or
office spaces, complete with a bathroom
the size of an airplane toilet. In 2007, the
capsule owners voted to demolish the
building, citing squalid, cramped conditions
as well as concerns about asbestos.
Kurokawa responded by suggesting that
the existing boxes could simply be
“unplugged” and replaced with updated
units. As of 2016, neither proposal has
gone ahead.

https://www.the-possible.com/six-examples-of-
modular-construction/
 https://www.the-possible.com/six-examples-of-modular-construction/

Furniture House 1, Yamanashi / Shigeru Ban / 1995

Standardized elements have long been used in modernist housing, perhaps most notably by architects such as
Richard Neutra, Charles and Ray Eames and Pierre Koenig in California’s Case Study House programme.
Shigeru Ban’s Furniture Houses take the system-built model up a notch. Furniture House 1 was built from 33
wooden units, prefabricated in two different sizes in a furniture factory and joined together with a wooden girder.
The twist was that these units acted as structure, space-defining elements and furniture, such as bookshelves or
wardrobes, all at the same time. Each unit weighed about 79.2kg and could be easily handled by a single
person. The house’s lightness and integrated furniture made it inherently earthquake-resistant.
 https://www.arch.columbia.edu/books/reader/137-social-transparency-
projects-on-housing

Star Apartments, Los Angeles / Michael Maltzan / 2014

The modular approach adopted at this homeless shelter in Downtown LA made the project one of Time
Magazine’s “25 Inventions of the Year” for 2015. The site originally held a single-storey commercial building but
rather than tear it down, Maltzan decided to build on top of it. A concrete superstructure was poured over the
existing edifice, and five storeys of prefabricated modules were craned on top. The modules, which were stucco-
finished on site, provide 102 apartments, with pre-installed bathrooms, appliances, cabinets and surface
finishes, as well as community space. It may be heralded a new typology, and even an “invention”, but the
seemingly haphazard arrangement of modules and creation of outdoor spaces in the setbacks and voids clearly
owes a debt to Habitat 67.
 https://bahaymakabayan.com/

Modular Housing in the Philippines

Bahay Makabayan pride itself having high quality materials and top rated Modular Homes Philippines builders.
References/Sources:
Modular Design retrieved from:
https://www.arch2o.com/language-modular-
architecture/#:~:text=What%20is%20Modular%20Design%3F,then%20used%20in%20different%
20systems.

Modular Buildings retrieved from:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Modular_building

Modular Construction retrieved from:

https://www.modular.org/HtmlPage.aspx?name=why_modular#:~:text=Modular%20construction
%20is%20a%20process,in%20about%20half%20the%20time.

Modular Construction retrieved from:

https://vanguardmodular.com/about-modular//

Modular Houses in the Philippines retrieved from:

https://bahaymakabayan.com/
Far Eastern University NOVEMBER 2020
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WEEK 15.
VISIONARY ARCHITECTURE AND MODULAR DESIGN FOR FILIPINO RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS

VISIONARY ARCHITECTURE
The name given to architecture which exists only on paper or which has visionary qualities. While the term 'visionary' suggests
the idea of an idealistic, impractical or Utopian notion, it also depicts a mental picture produced by the imagination. These
architectural drawings on paper allow insight of the unusual perception of the worlds that are impossible to visit everyday, except
through the visual dramatization of the designed, imaginative environment. There are also two meanings that are derived from
both terms 'imagination' and 'imaginary,' meaning unrealistic and impossible, and the other the ability to deal creatively with an
unseen reality. A significant precedent that adheres to the concept of visionary architecture is the 18th century architect Giovanni
Piranesi, who also had to think twice about the difference in meaning of the two terms. The titles of his well-known
prison etching works had two versions. The first was 'imaginary prisons,' and the final as 'prisons of the imagination.'

Criticism of the 'Irrational' Design

There are two differing perceptions in relation to the work of the imagination, and visionary architecture. One position is that there
are no unbuildable buildings, only unbuilt ones, and the other is the belief that some visionary architectural drawings are
impossible to be inhabited by the human. In the absence of a clear grasp of a controlling idea, as an individual, each design is
found to be highly arbitrary, and it is this aspect, which results in the designs to seem and look impossible. Conceptual
architecture, or architecture based on the act of imagination and vision, dissociates the physical nature of architectural design.
However, it is the idea and belief that these drawings and images are able to portray the true meaning of architecture and design
that connotes the significance of the works of visionary architecture. The complete history of architecture must include both the
built and the unbuilt environment.

Tool of Scaling
Architects are able to imagine, see and define a distant object that is in fact a building through the process of fabricating models,
scaling them up and down, ascending from the abstract to the concrete. Instead of physically creating the design of a building
into its complete scale and form, multiple up and down transitions in scale size of models allow the building design that is on
paper to emerge, become visible, representing the material as being real, bringing the building into existence. The visionary
nature of the eighteenth-century movement did not reside so much in this radical formalism as in the bizarre conceptions in which
the architects indulged, and their delight in projects of vast size. These scaled models were considered to be utopian and
fantastic in design, where the sense of fantasy is enhanced by symbolic meanings that are achieved by making the whole form of
the building speak.

Early designers and artists

During the Renaissance period, the differing representations of buildings evolved and grew rapidly through the introduction of
perspective. The discovery of this visualization tool, allowed for experimentation with imaginary architectural scenes, and while
many architects wrote greatly on the subject, others articulated their concepts and ideas through drawings.

During the sixteenth century, a Dutch painter and architect, Jan Vredeman de Vries, produced numerous engravings, which
portrayed new forms of architectural representation. His works were of pure fantasy and imagination, but were also regarded
as avant-garde messages in the depiction of architectural space.

Giovanni Battista Piranesi was considered one of the greatest printmakers of the eighteenth century. He is notably one of the
greatest printmakers of his time, where it is through this medium in which he demonstrated his mastering of etchings of imagined
spaces. It was suggested that the drawn spaces would lose their magic and meaning if they were to be physically built in real life,
as they would lose their unique forms of detail and intricacy, which is only achieved through drawings. The particular series of
etchings 'Prisons (Carceri d'invenzione) or 'Imaginary Prisons,' depict his famous fictitious and atmospheric etchings of Rome's
ancient remains, and his dreams of antiquity that often surpassed reality.

Etienne-Louis Boullee's Monument to Newton is considered to be more perfect due to its capability in successfully defying any
attempt to physically use it, being the most magnificent unusable space images, a dome with its literal-minded fulfilment
underfoot, in a second answering dome.

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CENOTAPH FOR NEWTON

https://www.archdaily.com

Claude Nicolas Ledoux, who studied under Jacques-François Blondel and Pierre Contant d'Ivry, built a number of projects
ranging from private residences to the entire complex of the Royal Saltworks at Arc-et-Senans, but is also renowned for his
utopian designs. He envisioned an entire town around the Royal Saltworks, which he called Chaux, and developed an entire
master plan along with plans, elevations, and sections of various individual buildings in this town. The town of Chaux is a
formalized exemplification of his ideas in urban planning, architecture, and society.

PROPOSED CITY AT THE ROYAL SALTWORKS

https://en.wikipedia.org
Jean-Jacques Lequeu is considered to be one of the more eccentric and obscene of the early visionary architects. He worked as
a civil servant as a cartographer, surveyor, and draftsman, but owing to the French Revolution his career as an actual architect
never came to fruition. He spent most of his career preparing an unpublished treatise entitled Architecture Civile, which is
primarily composed of the rudiments of architectural drawing and shadow casting, which is followed by a series of fragments of
his own fanciful architectural designs. These designs are usually an elevation or section or plan, but rarely an entire design.

The young motion picture industry also created an impact within the architectural scene, represented through the films
'Metropolis' and 'Just Imagine.' This differing form of media allowed for the elaborate and imaginative architectural sets
depicting futuristic scenes to be observed. Through this, other significant artists and architects such as Hugh Ferriss were
influenced.

Late 20th Century Designers and Architects

Peter Zumthor is another significant figure that adhered to the work of the unbuilt and paper architecture. The writing in his
architectural manifesto of 'Thinking Architecture,' Zumthor grasps the significance of emotion and experience as measuring tools
of the architecture, thus being the before-hand process of the design. His work was greatly unpublished because his
philosophical belief of how architecture should be experienced first hand played a greater role in his designs. His perception that
designing buildings should relate directly to our emotions.

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Rem Koolhaas moved to New York in 1972, where his years of being situated in Manhattan, expanded his fascination
with the city, leading to a close examination of the dynamics, which constructed it. His writing Delirious New York and the theory
of manhattanism are the results of this study depicts his perception on the manifesto of the city, dealing with the city as a subject,
where the book itself is a spatial project, while the text explains the structure of the city, using the narrative sequence and
typographic layout to effectively mimic the space.

Hermann Finsterlin is considered to be the one of the most radical of the Expressionists, and is notable known for having
produced fascinating carbuncular studies of the most unbuildable and obscure buildings. Although he never built anything, his
visionary drawings focused on perspectives, playing with the forms of unusual, organic shapes. Finsterlin's architectural drawings
would require the most devious methods to physically build as they go against their form, beginning with careful dissection and
separate moulding of each part, only emphasizing and confirming that they are among the purest paper buildings ever
developed.

Lebbeus Woods, after working with Eero Saarinen in the 1960s, turned to visionary architecture around 1976, producing a body
of drawings and models that reimagine cities like Berlin, Paris, Havana, and Vienna. He also worked extensively in Sarajevo in
the 1990s. Until his death in 2012 he was a professor at Cooper Union and other institutions and maintained a personal blog for
his ideas and reflections, which is now maintained as an online archive.

HORIZON HOUSE OF LEBBEUS WOODS

https://en.wikipedia.org

Sheila Sri Prakash is the first woman to have started and operated her own architectural firm in India. She is known for her
visionary architectural design methodologies where she draws from her ability to visualize and imagine spaces through the
practice of classical Indian dance and music. She was regarded a child prodigy for her talents as a gifted dancer, musician,
painter, sculptor and performing artist and is known for having given her first critically acclaimed Bharatanatyam Arangetram on
stage, in Mumbai, at the age of 6. As a prolific designer she has had well over 1000 completed architectural projects to her credit
over an ongoing career that spans 35 years. She is considered the greatest Architect from the Indian sub-continent and is known
as a breakthrough thinker for her practice of Indo-centric Reciprocity or Holistic Sustainability through Architecture and Urban
Design as a solution to global socio-economic issues. She serves on the World Economic Forum Global Agenda Council on
Design Innovation and the Role of Arts in Society.

IGBC LEED PLATINUM BUILDING BY PRAKASH

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In the 1980s a group of Russian architects emerged, united by “paper architecture” phenomenon. It accounts Yuri Avvakumov,
Mikhail Belov, Alexander Brodsky, Mikhail Filippov, and Ilya Utkin. At a time when Soviet architecture, limited by ideological
controls and unfavorable economic conditions, had fallen victim to standardized construction, paper architecture offered freedom
of expression. Inspired by the works of Piranesi and the Russian avant-garde, these visionary projects were never intended for
realization, and were conceived from the start as drawings.

Douglas Darden, after taking a studio class with Stanley Tigerman at Harvard, began his career by teaching and publishing
works of paper architecture. He was largely inspired by Giovanni Battista Piranesi, Jean-Jacques Lequeu, and Marcel Duchamp.
His visionary designs demonstrated what he referred to as "narrative architecture", as the works were largely inspired by and
formed based on various works of literature, such as Moby-Dick, As I Lay Dying, The Drunken Boat, and others. Since his work
was often executed by working from anti-theses of architectural principles, as well as social and functional ideologies in design,
he used the term underbelly to describe his work.

MODULAR DESIGN
Modular design or “modularity in design” is a design approach that subdivides a system into smaller parts called modules or
skids that can be independently created and then used in different systems. A modular system is characterized by functional
partitioning into discrete scalable and reusable modules, rigorous use of well-defined modular interfaces and making use of
industry standards for interfaces. The benefits of modular design are flexibility in design and reduction in costs. Examples of
modular systems are modular buildings, solar panels, wind turbines and so on. Modular design combines the advantages of
standardization with those of customization. A downside to modularity is that low quality modular systems are not optimized for
performance.

The Origin of Modular Design

Historically, in classical architecture, the diameter of a column was used as basis for a number of modules. In Japanese
architecture, room sizes were determined by combinations of rice mats which were 90x180cm. Matila Ghyka’s work on the
golden section was one of the sources of the Modulor, but his work, in general, was used by other architects, such as Le
Corbusier’s rival Andre Lurcat. Lurcat proposed his own range of proportions related to the work of builders as much as to that of
designers. Proportions and modules – thus became a central issue in the postwar French reconstruction, as architects struggled
to maintain their status amid changing procedures in building production (Cohen, 2014).

Modular Architecture versus Integral Architecture

There are many ways of categorizing architecture. Architecture can be either modular or integral. In reality, fully modular or fully
integral architecture is rare and almost all architecture is somewhere in between.

On one hand, modular architecture has functionally de-coupled interfaces between components. In practice, this often leads to
architecture that is one, where the functional elements in the building are mapped one-to-one to the components of the design.
However, integral architecture is the opposite of modular architecture. Integral architecture has coupled interfaces between
components. It tends to have more complex (not one-to-one) mapping from functional elements in the function structure to the
components of the design (Holtta, 2005).

MODULAR VILLAGE
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The Challenge of Modularity

Modularity means using the same module in multiple configurations enabling a large variety of designs without using many
component types. This modularity brings several advantages such as reduced capital requirements and economies. Modularity is
especially advantageous when the scale and scope of the project are relatively large. In such cases, it is a practical and
economic option. Through modularity, you can achieve various designs, while achieving low-cost for development, as well as,
cost saving in design and construction. Thus, you find that modularity is pushing out the productivity frontier in design creation
(McCluskey, 2000).

On the contrary, modularity may lead to excess cost due to over-design, inefficient performance, and too many common modules
may result in loss of design identity.

Modular Design Approach

It is significant to use the modular approach in architectural designs. Modular design is characterized by properties such as
upgradability, serviceability, flexibility and so on. Also, the beauty of modular architecture is that you can replace or add any
module without affecting the rest of the system. But, how important is it to encourage designers to use modularity? The answer is
in the way we use modularity and the objectives of modular systems. Thin of all the infinite numbers of architectural designs and
forms we can create with a simple set of modules.

MODULAR BUILDINGS
A modular building is a prefabricated building that consists of repeated sections called modules. Modularity involves constructing
sections away from the building site, then delivering them to the intended site. Installation of the prefabricated sections is
completed on site. Prefabricated sections are sometimes placed using a crane. The modules can be placed side-by-side, end-to-
end, or stacked, allowing for a variety of configurations and styles. After placement, the modules are joined together using inter-
module connections, also known as inter-connections. The inter-connections tie the individual modules together to form the
overall building structure.

Uses of Modular Buildings

Modular buildings may be used for long-term, temporary or permanent facilities, such as construction camps, schools and
classrooms, civilian and military housing, and industrial facilities. Modular buildings are used in remote and rural areas where
conventional construction may not be reasonable or possible, for example, the Halley VI accommodation pods used for a BAS
Antarctic expedition. Other uses have included churches, health care facilities, sales and retail offices, fast food restaurants and
cruise ship construction. They can also be used in areas that have weather concerns, such as hurricanes. Modular buildings are
often used to provide temporary facilities, including toilets and ablutions at events. The portability of the buildings makes them
popular with hire companies and clients alike. The use of modular buildings enables events to be held at locations where existing
facilities are unavailable, or unable to support the number of event attendees.

Construction Process
Construction is offsite, using lean manufacturing techniques to prefabricate single or multi-story buildings in deliverable module
sections. Often, modules are based around standard 20 foot containers, using the same dimensions, structures, building and
stacking/placing techniques, but with smooth (instead of corrugated) walls, glossy white paint, and provisions for windows,
power, potable water, sewage lines, telecommunications and air conditioning. Permanent Modular Construction (PMC) buildings
are manufactured in a controlled setting and can be constructed of wood, steel, or concrete. Modular components are typically
constructed indoors on assembly lines. Modules'
construction may take as little as ten days but more often
one to three months. PMC modules can be integrated into site
built projects or stand alone and can be delivered with MEP,
fixtures and interior finishes.

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SHIPPING CONTAINERS USED AS HOUSES

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The buildings are 60% to 90% completed offsite in a factory-controlled environment, and transported and assembled at the final
building site. This can comprise the entire building or be components or subassemblies of larger structures. In many cases,
modular contractors work with traditional general contractors to exploit the resources and advantages of each type of
construction. Completed modules are transported to the building site and assembled by a crane. Placement of the modules may
take from several hours to several days.

Permanent modular buildings are built to meet or exceed the same building codes and standards as site-built structures and the
same architect-specified materials used in conventionally constructed buildings are used in modular construction projects. PMC
can have as many stories as building codes allow. Unlike relocatable buildings, PMC structures are intended to remain in one
location for the duration of their useful life.

Advantages
Modular buildings are argued to have advantages over conventional buildings, for a variety of reasons.
• Speed of construction/faster return on investment. Modular construction allows for the building and the site work to
be completed simultaneously. According to some materials, this can reduce the overall completion schedule by as much
as 50%. This also reduces labor, financing and supervision costs. To save even more time and money, nearly all design
and engineering disciplines are part of the manufacturing process. Also unique to modular construction is the ability to
simultaneously construct a building's floors, walls, ceilings, rafters, and roofs. During site-built construction, walls cannot
be set until floors are in position, and ceilings and rafters cannot be added until walls are erected. On the other hand,
with modular construction, walls, floors, ceilings, and rafters are all built at the same time, and then brought together in
the same factory to form a building. This process can allow modular construction times of half that of conventional, stick-
built construction.
• Indoor construction. Assembly is independent of weather, which can increase work efficiency and avoids damaged
building material.
Ability to service remote locations. Particularly in countries in which potential markets may be located far from industrial
centers, such as Australia, there can be much higher costs to build a site-built house in a remote area or an area experiencing a
construction boom such as mining towns. Modular buildings are also beneficial in providing medical and sanitary facilities where
time, space, and money are an issue.
• Low waste. With the same plans being constantly built, the manufacturer has records of exactly what quantity of
materials are needed for a given job. With the consistency, builders can design systems that use common lengths of
lumber, wallboard, etc., cut items with maximum efficiency, or be able to order special lengths in bulk. While waste from
a site-built dwelling may typically fill several large dumpsters, construction of a modular dwelling generates much less
waste. According to the UK group WRAP, up to a 90% reduction in materials can be achieved through the use of
modular construction. Materials minimized include: wood pallets, shrink wrap, cardboard, plasterboard, timber, concrete,
bricks, and cement.
• Environmentally friendly construction process. Modular construction reduces waste and site disturbance compared
to site-built structures. The controlled environment of the factory allows for more accurate construction while allowing
the extra materials to be recycled in-house.
• Flexibility. One can continually add to a modular building, including creating high rises. When the needs change,
modular buildings can be disassembled and the modules relocated or refurbished for their next use reducing the
demand for raw materials and minimizing the amount of energy expended to create a building to meet the new need. In
essence, the entire building can be recycled in some cases.
• Quality. Combining traditional building techniques, quality manufacturing and third-party agencies who offer random
inspections, testing, and certification services for quality control, commercial modular buildings are built in strict
accordance with appropriate local, state, and national regulations and codes. Due to the need to transport modules to
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the final site, each module must be built to independently withstand travel and installation requirements. Thus the final
module-to-module assembly of independently durable components can yield a final product that is more durable than
site-built structures. Modular buildings often use Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) in construction, which offer a range
of advantages over traditional building materials. SIPs panels are a light yet durable combination of panel board and
either closed-cell polyurethane (PU) or expanded polystyrene (EPS) insulating foam. They are air-tight, and as such
provide excellent thermal performance. They also offer superior damp and cold resistance when compared to timber
and other materials, and are immune to both compression shrinking and cold bridging. Modular units may also be
designed to fit in with external aesthetics of any existing building and modular units once assembled can be virtually
indistinguishable from a site-built structure.
• Improved Air Quality – Many of the indoor air quality issues identified in new construction result from high moisture
levels in the framing materials. Because the modular structure is substantially completed in a factory-controlled setting
using dry materials, the potential for high levels of moisture being trapped in the new construction is eliminated.
Modular buildings can also contribute to LEED requirements in any category site-built construction can, and can even provide an
advantage in the areas of Sustainable Sites, Energy and Atmosphere, Materials and Resources, and Indoor Environmental
Quality.Modular construction can also provide an advantage in similar categories in the International Green Construction Code.

Disadvantages
• Volumetric: Transporting the completed modular building sections take up a lot of space.
• Flexibility: Due to transport and sometimes manufacturing restrictions, module size can be limited, affecting room sizes.
• Some financial institutions may be hesitant to offer a loan for a modular home.

Market acceptance
Raines Court is a multi-story modular housing block in Stoke Newington, London, one of the first two residential buildings in
Britain of this type.

RAINES COURT

https://en.wikipedia.org
Some home buyers and some lending institutions resist consideration of modular homes as equivalent in value to site-built
homes. While the homes themselves may be of equivalent quality, entrenched zoning regulations and psychological marketplace
factors may create hurdles for buyers or builders of modular homes and should be considered as part of the decision-making
process when exploring this type of home as a living and/or investment option. In the UK and Australia, modular homes have
become accepted in some regional areas; however, they are not commonly built in major cities. Modular homes are becoming
increasingly common in Japanese urban areas, due to improvements in design and quality, speed and compactness of onsite
assembly, as well as due to lowering costs and ease of repair after earthquakes. Recent innovations allow modular buildings to
be indistinguishable from site-built structures. Surveys have shown that individuals can rarely tell the difference between a
modular home and a site-built home.

Standards and Zoning Considerations

Typically, modular dwellings are built to local, state or council code, resulting in dwellings from a given manufacturing facility
having differing construction standards depending on the final destination of the modules. The most important zones that
manufacturers have to take into consideration are local wind, heat, and snow load zones. For example, homes built for final

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assembly in a hurricane-prone, earthquake or flooding area may include additional bracing to meet local building codes.
Steel and/or wood framing are common options for building a modular home.

Some US courts have ruled that zoning restrictions applicable to mobile homes do not apply to modular homes since modular
homes are designed to have a permanent foundation. Additionally, in the US, valuation differences between modular homes and
site-built homes are often negligible in real estate appraisal practice; modular homes can, in some market areas, (depending on
local appraisal practices per Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice) be evaluated the same way as site-built
dwellings of similar quality. In Australia, manufactured home parks are governed by additional legislation that does not apply to
permanent modular homes. Possible developments in equivalence between modular and site-built housing types for the
purposes of real estate appraisals, financing and zoning may increase the sales of modular homes over time.

In Wales (UK), a businessman authorized the placement of 6 mini modular homes called “Pods” for homeless persons on private
property.

Building Strength
Modular homes are designed to be stronger than traditional homes by, for example, replacing nails with screws, adding glue to
joints, and using 8–10% more lumber than conventional housing. This is to help the modules maintain their structural integrity as
they are transported on trucks to the construction site. However, there are few studies on the response of modular buildings to
transport and handling stresses. It is therefore presently difficult to predict transport induced damage.
When FEMA studied the destruction wrought by Hurricane Andrew in Dade County Florida, they concluded that modular
and masonry homes fared best compared to other construction.

BAHAY MAKABAYAN BUILT AFTER ‘YOLANDA’

Surfaces and finishes https://bhaymakabayan.com
Modular buildings can be assembled on top of multiple foundation surfaces, such as a crawl space, stilts (for areas that are
prone to flooding), full basements or standard slab at grade. They can also be built to multi-story heights. Motels and other multi-
family structures have been built using modular construction techniques. The height to which a modular structure can be built
depends on jurisdiction, but a number of countries, especially in Asia, allow them to be built to 24 floors or more.
Exterior wall surfaces can be finalized in the plant production process or in the case of brick/stone veneers, field applications may
be the builders' choice. Roof systems also can be applied in the field after the basic installation is completed.

MODULAR VS. PRE-FAB

Modular construction and prefabricated construction are different but often overlap — there are usually prefabricated parts of the
modular scheme, for instance.

Prefabricated construction consists of any structure designed and produced in a factory prior to building.

Modular construction consists of some sort of frame or structure in which smaller units (called modules, which are often
fabricated off-site) are assembled onto the frame on-site. Modules range in size and complexity from entire apartments (e.g. 461
Dean Street) to individual rooms. The term module in this context does not refer to individual elements such as single walls,
doors or windows, but rather self-enclosed dwelling spaces.

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While prefabricated housing has had a long and prosperous history, modular architecture is a much more recent
phenomenon. By the time modular construction and planning began, prefabrication had already been around for centuries.

Origins of Modularity
The first modular housing schemes can be traced back to
Buckminster Fuller, whose flexible housing experiment of the 1920s
and 30s, the Dymaxion House, came with things like notably
advanced prefabricated bathroom modules.

Buckminster Fuller’s Prefabricated Bathroom Module via the U.S. Patent Office
https://99percentinvisible.org

These modules were shipped to the US military for use during World War II. However, the
full extent of Fuller’s modular ideas was never completely realized due to a lack of
funding in his Dymaxion company, and the engineer-architect soon moved on to other
projects.The first successful construction of a fully modular home system did not
materialize until 1933, with the Winslow Ames House by Robert W.
McLaughlin and his company, American House, Inc.

The Winslow Ames House by Jerrye & Roy Klotz, MD

https://99percentinvisible.org

This innovative house was built with the help of a new exterior finishing material called Cemesto, a panel board made partly of
sugarcane, patented by the John B. Pierce Foundation. The Winslow Ames House consisted of several room modules serviced
by a ‘service core’ to which all bathroom, kitchen, plumbing, and heating systems were attached.

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Flexible Space home under construction in Oak Ridge, TN

https://99percentinvisible.org

In 1942, the US Government used a similar Cemesto prefabrication system to build the top secret town of Oak Ridge,
Tennessee, home of the Manhattan Project, virtually overnight.

They hired the firm Skidmore, Owings, & Merrill, to come up with a scheme called “Flexible Space” – fully modular homes flexible
enough for the variety of families soon to inhabit this clandestine new place. The houses came in discrete sections, cast in
cemento, and assembled on site in slightly varying configurations.

Modularity for the Masses

After the war, the concept of modularity spread to the burgeoning suburbia, albeit in a mellowed-out way, in the form of plug-and-
play panel systems of the 1940s and 50s Lustron and Gunnison prefabricated houses.

“Add-on” modules from the 1950 Gunnison Homes

Catalog via Jennifer Sale
https://99percentinvisible.org

These popular houses consisted of steel frames with

customizable features like a varying selection of kitchen
and bath systems, windows and doors, and add-ons like
porches, porticos, and garages. While only somewhat
modular in design, the houses helped introduce the
concepts of modularity to the general public.

The modular idea captivated many throughout the 1950s, notably the architect and designer George Nelson, most famous for his
mid-century modern furniture. Nelson led the transition to new emerging concepts of modularity, expressing modular construction

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on the exterior (unlike his predecessors, who sought to obscure the modular nature of their designs). His ongoing
Experimental House concept combined new materials such as affordable plastics, with the space-age futurism Nelson was most
famous for.

George Nelson, Experimental House Model from 1967 via the George Nelson Foundation
https://99percentinvisible.org

In the 1960s, the futuristic aesthetic language pioneered by Nelson and the Eameses and popularized by television programs like
Star Trek and current events, including the Space Race and the Atomic Age, became infused in the modular housing schemes of
the 1960s. These schemes, which focused on installing individual housing units on a mass structural frame, were forward-
thinking solutions to the proposed upcoming overpopulation crisis.

Perhaps the biggest accomplishment of this heydey of modular experimentation was the prefabricated modular megastructure by
Moshe Safdie, Habitat 67, built for the 1967 Expo in Montreal.

Habitat 67
https://99percentinvisible.org

Habitat 67, a graduate project by Moshe Safdie, who studied at McGill University, consists of up to 12 stories comprised of 354
identical prefab concrete apartments arranged in a variety of combinations. The project focused on the integration of light, fresh
air, and open space, in the context of a dense, urban community prototype. The apartments still stand, and still sell for upwards
of hundreds of thousands of dollars (a rarity for experimental housing schemes).

On the other side of the world, Japan, confronted by a post-war population and manufacturing boom, developed the architectural
style of Metabolism, which focused on flexibility, modularity, and
the Archigram-like concept of interchangeable units. Though the
Metabolist group was only active until the 1973 Energy Crisis, they
had a large effect on American architects and thinkers, who
visited for the 1970 Expo.

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The Kodak + Ricoh Pavilion at Expo 70

https://99percentinvisible.org

Like Archigram, the Metabolists concepts were mostly hypothetical, never reaching past the model stage. However, they did
manage to have a few buildings built. The most notorious and interesting of these structures was the 1972 Nagakin Capsule
Tower, by Kisha Kurokawa.

Nagakin Capsule Tower

https://99percentinvisible.org

The Nagakin Capsule tower consists of 140 self-contained prefabricated capsules, complete with bathrooms, cabinetry, and a
built-in HiFi set. The tiny capsules, designed to be removable and replaceable, only measure 7.5 x 6.9 x 12 feet — a predecessor
to today’s increasingly popular micro-apartments.

Nagakin Capsule
https://99percentinvisible.org

Despite its striking appearance, the tower has been in danger of demolition for over 10 years; for now, preservation efforts have
forestalled the potential loss of such an important building.
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The American architect, Paul Rudolph, most famous for his Brutalist government buildings, was inspired by modular projects
seen in World Expositions and those by his European contemporaries. Rudolph devised a mass-housing project in New Haven,
Connecticut, near Yale where Rudolph taught architecture. Rudolph’s concept took existing housing infrastructure developments,
namely the single-wide trailer, and applied it in a Habitat 67-esque fashion.

Oriental Masonic Gardens via the Paul Rudolph Collection at UMass Dartmouth
https://99percentinvisible.org

Rudolph’s project, Oriental Masonic Gardens, was assembled from 148 prefabricated units, grouped in clusters of four around a
central utility ‘core’. The living spaces were based on stacked units – the ground floor unit consisted of living spaces, with
bedrooms located within the second story unit. A third story unit could be added for additional living spaces. The project was
ultimately unsuccessful. According to Rudolph in a later interview: “People hated it. First of all it leaked, which is a very good
reason to hate something, but I think it was much more complicated than that. Psychologically, the good folk who inhabited these
dwellings thought that they were beneath them. In other words, the deviation of the dwelling was not something to their liking.”

Unsuccessful developments such as Rudolph’s pushed public taste away from the mass modular concept as the 70s came to a
close. The resolution of the 1970s energy crises combined with the new era of Neoliberal economic theory and prosperity
created by the technological advantages of the Green Revolution, created a boom in consumerism manifested as house-building
during the Reagan era. Americans were all too happy to put the grim weight of social programs and societal turmoil (including
failed social housing) of the past two decades behind them and usher in a period of increased private spending and private
ownership.

While modular apartment concepts retained favorability in the densely populated cities of Europe during this period, the modular
housing concepts of the 1980s in America returned to the thinking of the 1940s and 50s, focusing on the individual home rather
than the collective housing prototype. The 1980s saw modular housing technology applied to the construction of suburban
homes, with companies such as Unity Homes devised modular methods of building as an alternative to the often-stigmatized
manufactured homes of the time.

These new modular houses were constructed from parts in a factory, where a steel frame was used as the chassis on which the
house was transported to the construction site. Here, the home was picked up with a crane and assembled on a prepared
foundation. The frame then went back to the factory for construction of the next “off frame” modular. These modular methods,
whose origins are directly linked to the early cemento houses of Oak Ridge, Tennessee, remain popular in home construction
today.

Contemporary Modularity

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The great advances in technology during the 1990s and 2000s inspired a new generation of architects to return to the
concept of experimental modular housing. Improvements in computer rendering led to innovative manufacturing concepts like
the Klip House, whose computer-designed parts could be snapped together like LEGOs.

Klip House
https://99percentinvisible.org

The flexible nature of Klip House aimed to appeal to those seeking a single family detached home that could adapt to their
changing needs. With this system, the need for more space could be solved by simply clipping in another module rather than
moving out or building an entirely new home (therefore mitigating the relentless urban sprawl of the last four decades).

The most recent developments in modular housing have sought to solve an entirely new problem: urban housing affordability. As
more and more wealth moves into cities, and speculation on urban property rises, displacement and gentrification have created
an urban housing affordability crisis spanning cities from coast to coast.

Container City II
https://99percentinvisible.org

Container housing, a creative reuse approach in which excess or discarded shipping containers are transformed into small
homes, hit the mainstream consciousness in 2000, when the firm Urban Space Management completed the Container City
I project in the Trinity Buoy Wharf area of London. The project bears many similarities to Rudolph’s Oriental Masonic Gardens, in
that several discrete units are assembled into a complex of private homes. The firm has gone on to complete 16 additional
projects.

Though popular in Europe, complicated zoning laws in the US have prevented the proliferation of shipping container
developments, despite claims that they could be an effective affordable housing solution.

The micro-apartment, a housing solution with origins in extremely high density cities such as Hong Kong, has spread to cities in
the US, with a notable projects in New York and Seattle. Projects such as My Micro New York, consist of prefabricated 313
square-foot modules assembled on a steel frame on-site.

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130 Square-Foot Micro Apartment in Paris

https://99percentinvisible.org

The micro-apartment, with its origins in projects like Nagakin Capsule Tower, aims to provide safe living spaces with lower rents
– a response to situations where bedrooms are divided ad hoc into separate dwelling spaces under the nose of the law in order
to allow more inhabitants to save money on rent. Time will tell whether or not these schemes are ultimately successful, as is the
case with the vast majority of mass-modular housing concepts.

REFERENCES / SOURCES:
Cohen, Jean-Louis. (2014). “Le Corbusier’s Modulor and the Debate on Proportion in France”. Architectural Histories, 2(1):23,
pp.1-14.
Holtta-Otto, Katja. (2005). “Modular Product Platform Design”. Doctoral Dissertation, Helsinki University of Technology. Finland.
https://www.arch2o.com
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visionary_architecture
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Modular_design
https://99percentinvisible.org/article/modularity-modern-history-modular-mass-housing-schemes/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wCQwx8dpbrw

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