Pontifical and Royal

UNIVERSITY OF SANTO TOMAS

COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE
España, Manila

CALUYA, Javin Alan F. February 25, 2023

4AR-8 Art Appreciation

1. How does architecture function as an art form, and what unique aesthetic and expressive

qualities does it possess compared to other art forms, in the context of art appreciation?

Architecture as a whole functions as an art form when its purpose has been met

depending on its users. In addition to that, the innovations and new principles that are

continuously being developed and applied all throughout our lifetime is what makes architecture

progresses and evolves, as evidenced by the presence of various architectural styles from the past

such as Baroque, Renaissance, Neoclassical up to the current and future trends such as

Postmodernism, Minimalist and Avant-Garde style architecture and there is no doubt that new

styles would emerge in the future. I think one of the unique aesthetic and expressive qualities that

architecture possesses that other art forms don't have was in terms of the scale. Other art forms

have to be displayed or stored in an enclosed space whereas architecture can be seen almost

instantly whenever people go out in the open. Because of this, we get to appreciate architecture

in a deeper and higher degree because we ourselves are immersed within and outside of it no

matter the elements and principles used in establishing a structure. Lastly, the landscaping

elements that surround a building also serve as a component of architecture that further beautifies

its surroundings, creating a holistic entity that combines beauty and functionality.
 Pontifical and Royal
UNIVERSITY OF SANTO TOMAS
COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE
España, Manila

2. What are some of the key features and characteristics of Philippine architectural art, and

how have these evolved over time?

One of the key features and characteristics of Philippine architectural art can be seen in

terms of its form. There is a term that we call “Vernacular Architecture” in the country which has

originated from the rural areas in the past where traditional architecture in the country utilizes all

the natural materials that they can find such as wood, stone and bamboo to create houses and

other establishments. One example of this is the prominent Bahay Kubo where materials found

locally were used to create its iconic structure. In addition to that, it has also developed the use of

elevated platforms in order to protect the house from floods. All in all, vernacular architecture

inspired all other structures that are being built in the country and I personally think that this is

what makes our architecture considered as “Filipino”. The use of sloping roofs, naturally

available materials and even our way of life as Filipinos are what will ultimately become the

constant factor as Philippine architecture continues to progress and be passed down from

generations to generations.
 Pontifical and Royal
UNIVERSITY OF SANTO TOMAS
COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE
España, Manila

3. How has Philippine architectural art been influenced by cultural and historical factors, and

what are some examples of notable works that showcase these influences?

Philippine architecture has been primarily influenced by the colonists that have resided in

the country for many years, mainly the Spaniards and the Americans. Firstly, the Spaniards are

one of the inspirations for the Bahay na Bato and the spaces it includes which has been

established for most parts of the country. In addition the planning of town centers in various

areas in the Philippines have been inspired by them, where plazas are considered as the center of

the town which are surrounded by the Church and other municipal and government

establishments. On the other hand, the Americans introduced the Neoclassical style of

architecture in the country as evidenced by the Philippine Post Office, the Supreme Court, and

the Manila City Hall among others. They’ve introduced a modern type of urban planning that

was supposed to change the way how cities are planned more primarily in Manila and the newly

developed Quezon City back then. One of the most prominent examples of American inspiration

in Philippine architecture was the works of Daniel Burnham in Manila and Burnham Park in

Baguio City. Lastly, I think one of the most influential factors also included in Philippine

architecture was the arrival of the neighboring Chinese traders in the country as exemplified by

the utilization of “Feng Shui” in designing interior spaces which are still being practiced today

by Filipinos who believe in Chinese superstitions.