CHAPTER VI

ENVIRONMENTAL SYSTEMS

The different environmental systems to be used are introduced in this

chapter. These systems will be considered in formulating the architectural design
solution for the project which will incorporate a sustainable and green
architecture as well as incorporating the old “bahay na bato” and old Filipino
architectural designs with modern twist. This includes the building materials,
source of water and electricity, mechanical systems, solid waste management,
landscaping and others.

6.1 STRUCTURAL SYSTEM

Modern construction materials will be

used while integrating Philippine-Spanish
colonial architecture for designing the
proposed Iluluan Retreat and Tourism
Complex. Since the chosen site is hilly, the
proponents came up with Pilotis to be Fig. 55 - Steel Reinforcement Bars
incorporated in the design which embodies Source: Google Images
the stilts seen in “bahay kubo”.
Amalgamating the chosen design approach and other still-available structural or
design materials will be cost-efficient for the project. The use of modern materials
like glass, concrete and steel will give
opportunity to achieve the desired
aesthetic purposes of the design. Wood,
Anahaw leaves, Nipa leaves, Bamboo,
Rattan and other indigenous materials
will be embodied in the design to further
enhance the appeal of olden times.

Fig. 56 - Deployable Bamboo Pavilion Despite of the incorporation of old

Source: Google Images architectural designs, the structural

system introduced in this study will be in
accordance to the Structural Code of the Philippines to ensure the safety of the
users.

6.2 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

The main source of power supply will be provided by the Albay Power and
Energy Corporation (APEC). The proposed project has a power room that will
control the electricity coming from the power supply. To achieve sustainable and

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low energy consumption the study will also harness the energy from the sun
through the use of solar panels. For back-up power during emergencies, an
electrical generator will be on stand-by.

6.3 MECHANICAL SYSTEMS

The proposed Iluluan Retreat and

Tourism Complex aims to integrate passive
cooling system design through its buildings.
However, to consider the comfort of the
visitors and staff, the proponents decided to
incorporate the use of air conditioners in the
offices and other important rooms or areas.
To prevent exposed outdoor units and
ductworks of other models, the proponents
will introduce the use of vertical air conditioner Fig. 57 - Vertical Air Conditioner
units. Source: Google Images

6.4 FIRE-FIGHTING SYSTEMS

Strategic planning for the building location,

fire emergency evacuation plan, installation of fire
hose cabinets and provision of fire exits, signage
and lights would increase the safety of its users
and the premises as a whole. The proposed
Iluluan Retreat and Tourism Complex will make
use of various equipments in the field of fire-
fighting system such as smoke and flame
Fig. 58 - Fire Extinguisher
detectors, fire extinguishers and automatic fire
Source: Google Images
alarms. Careful planning for the location of the fire
hoses and fire extinguishers will be ensured for it to be readily available during
emergencies. All of the systems introduced in this study will be of in accordance
to the Fire Code of the Philippines.

6.5 SANITARY SYSTEMS

The researchers will give focus on the main concerns in planning of the
sanitary systems to conform in the need of a sustainable, hygienic and
unpolluted environment for the proposed Iluluan Retreat and Tourism Complex.
This includes water supply source and collection, sanitary and storm drainage
systems.

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6.5.1 WATER SUPPLY

A huge disadvantage of the chosen lot is the unavailability of the local

water supply system in the present but somehow the researchers regarded it as
a challenge. Rainwater collection system, deep wells and other alternative water
collection and storage system will be applied in order to compensate the loss of a
major water source until the time comes when the local water distributor is able
to reach the Barangay Iluluan.

The water collected on the storage tanks will undergo a filtration system
and chlorination process to support the daily activities that requires water. Tap
water will be sourced out from the ground and will be treated via reverse osmosis
to have potable water that is safe for drinking. Up and down feed system supply
of water tank will also be used for different zones of the establishment.

6.5.2 SANITARY DRAINAGE

The unavailability of a main

sewer line in the Barangay is also
a minor disadvantage, therefore
wastewater collection, treatment
and disposal systems will be done
Fig. 59 - Three-chambered septic tank
using a septic tank. The three-
Source: Google Images
chambered septic tanks are
nowadays the recommended approach or technology to assure the proper
disposal of wastewater.

6.5.3 STORM DRAINAGE

Storm drainage will not be a problem since the lot is hilly. Water naturally
runs down to a creek present in the middle of the lot thus, giving the researchers
a natural means of disposing off excess water. Proper design of supporting small
canals or waterways directly connected to the creek will be utilized.

6.6 WASTE MANAGEMENT

The researchers aim to be sustainable in every possible way in the design

and planning of the proposed study. Proper waste disposal will be the main focus
of waste management. Material recovery facility will be placed inside the
premises of the lot so that the garbage will undergo the careful analysis of the 4
R’s of waste management (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Recover).

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6.6.1 SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT

To achieve proper waste management and

segregation along with the material recovery facility,
retro galvanized garbage tin cans or wooden bins will
be provided throughout the premises with
corresponding labels. With this, the strong
implementation of segregation of biodegradable and
non-biodegradable will be observed. Biodegradable
wastes would be composted that can be used as an
organic fertilizer for plants. Recycling will also be Fig. 60 - Galvanized tin can

introduced to minimize waste and to use this as Source: Google Images

another source of income.

6.7 LANDSCAPING SYSTEM

Iluluan Retreat and Tourism

Complex is a haven for people who wants
to unwind and cleanse, thus landscaping
design would be crucial to the feel and
ambiance of the place. Floras are not only
used for their aesthetic purposes but also
for their cooling effects that is usually

planted on paved areas like driveways Fig. 61 - Tropical Landscape Design

and path walks. Careful selection of plants Source: Google Images
to be used will be observed as it may be
dangerous or can trigger allergies.

6.7.1 PLANTSCAPING

Since the proposed project is geared

towards lesser use of electricity, plants will
be placed indoors to help create a relaxing
atmosphere and to absorb heat from the
surroundings. The proposed site offers a
variety of flora which the proponents can use
to decorate the indoors of the different
buildings most especially the ones used Fig. 62 - Tropical indoor meeting space
during Spanish conquest in the Philippines. Source: Google Images
Selection of indoor plants to be used will
consider the clientele’s health and safety.

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6.7.2 ACCESSIBILITY

Accessibility to each building would not be a

problem for the users. The proponents will design
and plan covered path-walks to every structure for
easy access, comfort and safety. However, cars and
other modern-day vehicles will not be allowed in
some areas of the premises in order to imitate the
feel of the past. Since it is a place for adventure and
meditation, it will promote walking or jogging and
bicycle riding provided that it will be comfortable and
there will be resting and emergency points. A creek

is present in the site and the proponents will design

Fig. 63 - Covered walkways
a bridge replicating the “Iluluan Bridges” that will
Source: Pinterest
provide a dramatic entourage and will also serve as
another attraction for the visitors.

The Accessibility Law of the Philippines, also known as BP 344 will be one
of the bases for measurements. Stairs, walkways, ramps, corridors, door
entrances, wash rooms, handrails, etc. will be designed according to the law.

6.7.3 WAY-FINDING

In large establishments like the proposed

Iluluan Retreat and Tourism Complex, way-
finding is a must. It plays a vital role for a person
to access a structure with ease. Since there are
many structures, facilities, and amenities to
choose from, visitors would get lost or get
confused. Emplacing signage, signboards, and
maps on strategic locations where users can
easily read or identify them will guide them to
Fig. 64 - Wooden signage
their destination.
Source: Pinterest

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