A PROPOSED FOUR-LEVEL LOFT

ATENEO DE DAVAO UNIVERSITY

School of Engineering and Architecture

A Research Proposal

Presented to

Architect Francis Ian Malone

In Partial Fulfillment

Of the Requirements in

Architectural Design 2 – Creative Design Fundamentals

Presented By

GARSUTA, ALLAN JOHN ESTRADA

March 2019
I. Definition of Terms

A. DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS

Thermal Comfort
It can be defined as “the condition of mind which expresses satisfaction with the
environment’”. It is significant in designing since most of the time people spent their time
inside the building. Thus, it highlights the occupants comfort and health considering both
indoor and outdoor climate of the location.
Acoustics
Architectural acoustics is the process of managing how both airborne and impact
sound is transmitted – and controlled – within a building design. While virtually every
material within a room – from furniture to floor coverings to computer screens – affects
sound levels to one degree or another, wall partitions, ceiling systems and floor/ceiling
assemblies are the primary elements that designers use to control sound.
Orientation
Orientation refers to the way a building is situated on a site and the positioning of
windows, rooflines, and other features. A building oriented for solar design takes
advantage of passive and active solar strategies. Building orientation and building
materials also facilitate temperature moderation and natural daylighting.
Accessibility
Accessibility means creating a universal design that have spaces that meet the
needs of people, young and old, able and disabled. From the arrangement of rooms or
space planning to the choice of interiors and many more. The goal of accessibility is to
usable to the greatest extent possible.
Safety & Security
Security and safety requires a proactive approach that anticipates—and then
protects—the building occupants, resources, structure, and continuity of operations from
multiple hazards such as human aggressors and also the climate of the location.
Ventilation
Ventilation is necessary in buildings to remove 'stale' air and replace it with 'fresh'
air. This helps to moderate internal temperatures, reduce the accumulation of moisture,
odors and other gases that can build up during occupied periods, and create air movement
which improves the comfort of occupants. Ventilation can be in the form of mechanical
and natural.
Lighting
 Providing a building with natural light is more than just the solution of a problem
of energy consumption; more, even, than an aesthetic resource easily incorporated into
the architecture. Light in architecture must be part of a more general philosophy that
creates a more respectful, sensitive attitude in human beings towards the environment in
which they live may it be artificial or natural light.
Linkages
Linkages result in a built form with place adaptive qualities depicting continuity
in relationship between culture and built form of the place. It highlights the continuity of
space to another and the background of the building structure.
B. SPACE REQUIREMENTS

Entrance/ Foyer
It is sometimes called a lobby that serves as small entry area that lead to the front
door. It is also a transition are like the receiving to keep the change in body temperature
stable.
Receiving Area
a small area inside and near the entrance of a building. It also serves as the
transition area to change temperature from the outside to the inside of the building.
Living Area
The living area is the main common space in most family homes. It used as a
sitting room for relaxing and socializing. Living room is also called as the front room.

Dining room
It is the availability of some form of accommodation (seating, counters, tables) for
eating and drinking. This is, therefore, an area intended for the actual consumption of
food and drink.
Nook/breakfast
It is a small place for light meals usually near a kitchen or is designed on a corner
of a room usually with built in tables and chairs.
Bedroom
a principal bedroom house or apartment, usually the largest, typically occupied by
the person or persons who head the household.
a) T&B with bidet
 - It stands for Toilet and Bath and is used for urination and bowel
b) Urinal

- Used for urination

c) Bathtub

- A small or large tub fill with water for relaxation

d) Shower

- A built in or portable water source used for bathing

Powder Room
A room where a person can urinate and bowel.
Studio/ Small Office
An area where an occupant can use it to work and innovate. It is sometimes called
a workshop room for artists and workers. Its design depends on the occupants field of
work.
II. ARCHITECTURAL TRENDS/ INNOVATIONS
Listed below are the ways or systems that can be apply in the proposed four level loft. These
are trends and Innovations to achieve a green sustainable building.
a. Vernacular Constructive Systems

Designing buildings that incorporates the architectural roots of the country

to manifest and make a hybrid system of technologies with cultural identity. It
defines the identity of a site, its cultural diversity, a remarkable value because it is
an expression of the environmental and cultural characteristics of a place and of
the way of life of its population. recent innovations include adding gardens and
green rooftops, as well as indoor green parks and green walls to residential

b. Open-space designs

Open-space design that encourages mingling of cooking, entertaining, and

family spaces has dominated residential architecture for the last few decades, the
trend is undergoing some changes in both residential and commercial architecture.
It prevents large rooms from looking flat and boring by incorporating shifting of
colors and the use of daylight for the organization of space.
c. Environmental Sustainability

In relation to other trends and Innovations sustainable architecture is a

complimentary addition to the technique or style to be used. meeting the needs of
 the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their
needs. So this means being smart with the resources currently available and not
depleting resources for generations of people beyond us. sustainability is also a
top concern for home buyers. Consumers know the importance of reducing their
carbon footprints, and want to make sustainable choices that fit with their
lifestyles

d. Skylights/ Tesla Solar Roofs

The Solar Roof line of products is unique among other solar options
because it doesn’t resemble a typical solar installation. Every solar cell is
embedded invisibly within every glass tile. The tiles are then installed like
traditional roofing shingles or tiles.
Unlike other solar products, Tesla systems are designed to collect up to 98
percent of the solar energy that traditional arrays collect. The unique type of
louvered glass tile works in much the same way as window blinds by reflecting
sunlight to appear opaque while still absorbing the rays of the sun.
The electricity generated by the solar roof tiles is then used to power
houses - and possibly also to charge the Powerwall battery if you choose to store
your solar energy for later use. Tesla tiles can be installed on new construction, as
part of a re-roofing project.
Although the upfront investment seems high, there are several advantages
to installing Tesla solar tiles on roofs:
Aesthetically, Tesla solar tiles put traditional solar arrays to shame. There
are no bulky frames or visible wiring and junction boxes. The tiles look like
regular roofing tiles - which could significantly increase the value of your home.
While the initial purchase and installation costs for Tesla tiles are
impressive, like other solar options, this product will pay for itself. It is because
the design of these tiles makes them nearly indestructible, Tesla offers to replace
their tiles as long as you own your home – without time limits.

e. Permeable Pavements

Permeable pavements help reestablish a more natural hydrologic balance

and reduce runoff volume by trapping and slowly releasing precipitation into the
ground instead of allowing it to flow into storm drains and out to receiving waters
as effluent. This same process also reduces the peak rates of discharge by
preventing large, fast pulses of precipitation through the stormwater system.
 Permeable pavement can reduce the concentration of some pollutants
either physically (by trapping it in the pavement or soil), chemically (bacteria and
other microbes can break down and utilize some pollutants), or biologically
(plants that grow in-between some types of pavers can trap and store pollutants).
By slowing down the process, permeable pavements can cool down the
temperature of urban runoff, reducing the stress and impact on the stream or lake
environment.
By controlling the runoff at the source, such as a parking lot, permeable
pavement can also reduce the need for or the required size of a regional BMP,
such as a wet detention pond, which saves money and effort.
f. Reed Bed System
It minimizes solids, reduces water content, minimal day-to-day operation,
no requirement of highly trained operators, mechanical and electrical equipment
are needed, pumping not necessary as the system works on gravity, provides
sufficient storage time to stabilize bio solids prior to disposal, blowers to aerate is
not required as the aeration is facilitated by reeds
g. Natural Materials

As modern design also rises the need to incorporate nature to the building
to create not only an eco-friendly structure but also a timeless reflection of the
environment is in demand. This will help the building to bring warmth and
texture into their homes. Such as
Bamboo plywood. This material is used for internal design elements like
flooring, cabinetry, and covering. It is a zero-VOC and sustainable resource.
Bamboo plywood is also aesthetically pleasing, and it adds a touch of elegance to
any home. Aside from being non-toxic and all natural, the material is as easy to
work with as laminate and hardwood.
h. Cool Roofing Technology

Cool roofing technology has been around for over 15 years now. It will
improve the heat dissipation and will lower temperatures in your home during
summer a lot. It's also safe for the environment because it lowers heat in the
atmosphere. The name is a bid misleading though, it's not that these roofs are
cooling your home like an air-conditioner, its how they reflect which gives them
the name. They reflect the sunlight and thus reducing the heat in your home.
Cool Roofing technology enables to lessen the heat temperature from
entering to the building. Only 1.5% heat the building and the latter is reflected,
heats the city air and heats the atmosphere outside. Hence, giving more thermal
comfort for the users.
i. Nanogel-filled polycarbonate sheets
 It can be used on translucent walls and ceilings in a new type of multiwall
system. Additionally, the energy used to extrude polycarbonate sheets is generally
a fraction of that to manufacture glass. Polycarbonate sheets are also durable—
250 times more impact-resistant than glass and virtually unbreakable; they are
tested to perform from −40 to 120 C (−40 to 240 F) and can withstand more
extreme weather such as windstorms, hail, or snowstorms. The insulating nanogel
that is used to fill the polycarbonate sheets consists of synthetic polymers or
biopolymers that are chemically or physically crosslinked to aid in energy
efficiency, which may give a building up to 50 percent energy savings compared
to monolayer glass.

III. DESIGN CONCEPT

A. DESIGN INSPIRATION

“A Trip between Worlds”

Through the lens of our ancestors who carved with bare hands and
primitive tools showcased a treasure of the world and a pride of our nation,
Banuaue Rice Terraces. This loft is inspired by one of the Eight wonders of the
world that entails different kind of levels and a wide variety of environment in the
Philippines surrounded by the rainforest and high mountains in the area. It’s my
primordial loyalty to go beyond what is served hence, these mountain rages with
its green building advocacy can be put into a single loft unifying and transcending
the features of this tourist attraction. In addition, to put into practice modern
minimalism and Scandinavian vibes in its design. A Nordic and Filipino
atmosphere to compliment each others features and bring out function combined
with inspiration from nature creates a very warm strain to create attraction to
people.
It is to design a loft that represent an absolute harmony between man and
the environment using green building systems and architectural styles in relation
to the function of levels. With an utmost honour to preserved this unparalleled
beauty and incorporating it into spot on spaces to fully grasp the functionality of
the space design. Not only will it showcased the exterior look but the interior of it
in giving a nostalgia of how ifugaos, vast tribes and ethnic groups in the vicinity
worked hard to achieve the present attraction, and bring out simplicity,
practicality and sophistication of the Nordics. The Banaue Rice Terraces as well
as Europe’s Scandinavian style is a true beauty to behold. Thus, in incorporating
its leveling features to a loft and its nature or environment in its interiors we can
preserve our own and at the same time create function in its form through unique,
stepped/terraced design with greenery that spills from the building’s facade.
A. ARCHITECTURAL STYLE

The Architectural style of the building exhibits a combination of a modern

minimalism, Scandinavian and neo-vernacular style of architecture. It can be
stated that the design should be organic and an extension of the land, an
individual expression is the essence of a successful architectural innovation and
design. An combination of modern minimalism and Scandinavian style features
industrial and organic materials and geometric forms in a flowing, open-concept
space favoring white, black and or can also be pale color schemes plus the use
glass accents having it to have a bit of minimalist and Scandinavian influences
with open interiors to capitalize sunlight for an energy efficient building.
Furthermore, modern minimalism proposed a functional yet sophisticated comfort
that is far more beyond the traditional classic style of architecture and with
unifying theme. It is the practice of deriving ideas, style, or taste from a broad and
diverse range of sources. It is the borrowing of a variety of styles, ideas and
theories, drawn from different time periods and different origins and combining
them within a single project or none at all. It also pay tribute to the father of
Philippines neo-vernacular architecture Francisco “Bobby” Mañosa, who practice
neo-vernacular architecture for a long time incorporating Filipino inspired
buildings such as bahay na bato, bahay kubo and many more. The iconic architect
designed through incorporating indigenous elements and materials in its design
throughout his 60 years as an architect.
IV. DESIGN PHILOSOPHY
“The preservation of rich culture is more important than mindless and
whimsical change.”
“Architecture must be true to itself, its land, and its people,” - Francisco
“Bobby” Mañosa
The Design Philosophy focuses more on the use of both indigenous and modern
materials that are energy efficient and focuses on the green building advantages for the
structure itself. The wide used of styles in this loft incorporates the Filipino culture and
modern changes in the society which is a result of the inevitable, irreversible construct of
 Globalization. The lost showcases a trip between worlds through its culture and post
modern changes that are currently happening in the society. Hence, this loft will reflect
its land and its people through practicality and sophistication of design.

V. DRAWING SKETCHES
VI. BUBBLE DIAGRAM
 LEGENDS
ACCESIBLE NOT NECESSARILY ACCESIBLE NOT ACCESIBLE

VII. SPACE MATRIX

Legends:
Related Adjacent Not Related

VIII. ARCHITECTURAL PROGRAMMING

SPACE FUNCTION USERS ANCILARIES AMENITIES FEATURES

Entrance/ Serves as a Guest and Space  Rack  Natural

Foyer small entrance Main Lighting
hall that lead Occupant  Small Shelf
to the main
room.

Receiving Receives guest Parents Space or Room  Lounges  Natural

Area Children Lighting
Guest
Maid  CCTV

 Wi-Fi

Living This is Parents Space or Room  Coffee  Television

Room intended for Children Table
relaxation and Guest  Sound
socializing Maid  Comfortable System
with people set of Sofa
 Natural
  End tables Lighting

 Desk  CCTV

 Wi-Fi`

Powder Intended for Family Room  Toilet Bowl  Motion

Room Urination and Members sensitive
Bowel and Guest  Lavatory Lighting

 Urinal  Exhaust
Fan

Dining A space for Family Space  Tables and  Ambient

Room eating meals Members Chairs and Accent
and Guests Lighting
 Buffet Table
 Wi-Fi

 CCTV

Kitchen It is intended Family Space or Room  Countertop  Ambient,

for preparing Members Task and
meals and Guests and  Sink accent
washing Maids Lighting
dishes  Refrigerator
 CCTV
 Oven
 Wi-Fi
 Stove

 Fire
Extinguishe
r

Nook/ An area for Main Space  Chairs  Ambient

Breakfast eating light Occupant and accent
meals and and guest  Tables lighting
breakfast
 CCTV

 Wi-Fi

Bedroom It is intended Occupant Room  Bed  Ambient,

for the head of Task and
the house to  Side table Accent
sleep and relax Lighting
 Sofa
 CCTV
 Coffee
Table  Television

 Book  Natural
Shelves Ventilation

 Toilet and
 Bath

 Desk

 Patio

Studio/ For working Occupant Space  Computer  Wi-Fi

Small Office paperworks
and innovating  Tables and  Natural
things. Chairs Lighting

 Shelves  CCTV

Bibliography:
https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Ventilation

https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/small-living-room-home-design-ideas-254768

https://www.trendir.com/breakfast-nook-design-ideas/

https://www.archiblox.com.au/5-architecture-trends-2018/
https://www.archdaily.com/886414/8-new-energy-efficient-materials-architects-should-know
https://www.poplarnetwork.com/news/reed-bed-green-waste-water-treatment-option
https://www.usgs.gov/science/evaluating-potential-benefits-permeable-pavement-quantity-and-quality-
stormwater-runoff?qt-science_center_objects=0#qt-science_center_objects
https://www.solar-estimate.org/news/2018-11-06-are-the-tesla-solar-roof-tiles-worth-it