Soil, Vegetation, And Topography  Minimizes environmental noise both inside and outdoor, resulting in quieter surroundings.
 Improves the energy performance of the building by reducing its consumptions in heating and
Soil
 Solum – A Latin word which means bottom, or ground. It is the origin of the word soil.
 Disintegrated rock material which has not been transported from the place of origin.
 The loose unsolicited inorganic material on the Earth’s crust produced by the disintegration of
rocks overlying hard rock with or without organic matter.
 The loose material on the Earth’s crust consisting of disintegrated rock with an admixture of
organic matter, which supports plant life.
Different Types of Soils in the Philippines
1. Entisols – These are weakly developed sandy soils common in alluvial plains and coastal areas.
2. Inceptisols – They occur in association with Gleysols although they can also be found in
mountainous areas.
3. Vertisols – The clayey soils in lowland areas that produce large cracks on the surface during
the dry season. These are very fertile and are widely used for lowland rice production.
4. Oxisols – These are very deep, red, acidic, and very infertile soils found in old landscapes in
Palawan, Mindanao, and Samar.
5. Alfisols – These are well-developed soils with high base saturation (fertile) found in old
alluvial terraces in various areas in the Philippines.
6. Ultisols – Strongly leached, acid forest soils with relatively low native fertility. They are found
primarily in humid temperature and tropical areas of the world, typically on older, stable
landscapes.
Texture of Soils – is reflected largely by the particle size, shape, and gradation. The concept of texture
of a soil has found some use in the classification of soils to be dealt with later.
Soil Formation – soil is formed by the process of weathering of rocks, that is, disintegration and
decomposition of rocks and minerals at or near the Earth’s surface through the actions of natural or
mechanical and chemical agents into smaller and smaller grains.
Vegetation – An assemble of plant species and the ground cover they provide. It is a general term,
without specific reference to particular taxa, life forms, structure, spatial extent, or any other specific
botanical or geographic characteristics.
Advantages
 Improves the quality of the structure that are incorporated both within and outside of their
enclosure.
 Improves its energy efficiency.
 Improves urban environmental quality by, among other things, mitigating the urban-heat island
by lowering the temperature in its environments.
cooling.
Types of Vegetations in the Philippines
1. Tropical Rain Forest – Characterized by dense vegetation, towering trees, and a rich
understory of plants. They house numerous endemic species of plants and animals.
2. Mangrove – These specialized coastal ecosystems consist of slat-tolerant trees and shrubs that
grow in brackish water. Mangroves provide valuable habitats for marine life, protect coastlines
from erosions and storms, and support local livelihoods.
3. Montane – Found at higher elevations in mountainous areas, montane forests are characterized
by cooler temperatures and different types of plant species compared to lowland areas.
4. Dipterocarp Forests – Dominant type of forests in the Philippines and are composed mainly
of dipterocarp trees. Dipterocarps are hardwood trees that can grow to impressive heights. They
are economically valuable for their timber.
Most Common Plants for Landscaping in the Philippines
1. Begonias – A compact, bushy, mounded, fibrous-rooted plant that features fleshy stems, waxy
dark green to bronze leaves and loose clusters (cymes) of single or double flowers in shades of
white, pink, or red plus bicolor versions thereof.
2. Dipterocarp – Any of a family (dipterocarpaceae) of tall hardwood tropical trees chiefly of
South Eastern Asia that have a 2-winged fruit and are the source of valuable timber, aromatic
oils, and resins.
3. Palm – A tall slender plant with long luscious feather-like leaves. While its trunks are green
and ringed. This easy to care plant adds a tropical beach vibe right in your very own home.
Some palms can live for centuries and is one of the oldest living trees.
4. Fern – An uncommon, beautiful variant of Java Fern that originates from the tropical
Philippine islands, located Northeast of Borneo. The unique feature of this plant is the ribbed
and hammered pattern on its leaves which is most visible on fully matured leaves.
Role of Topography in Architectural Drafting
Provides essential information about the physical characteristics of a site, such as its elevation,
slope, contours, and natural features. This information helps architects understand the existing
conditions of the land and design structures that are well-suited to the environment. Accurate
topographical data ensures that buildings are appropriately positioned, foundations are stable, and
drainage systems work effectively.
Types of Topography
1. Terrain – An area of land, when considering its natural features.
2. Mountains – A raised part of the Earth’s surface, much larger than a hill.
 3. Hills – Area of land that is higher than the surrounding land.
4. Rivers – A natural wide flow of fresh water across the land into the sea, a lake, or another
river.
5. Lakes – A large area of water surrounded by land and not connected to the ocean except by
rivers and streams.
6. Valleys – An area of low land between hills or mountains, often with a river running through it.
7. Plains – A large area of flat land.
Sun and Precipitation
The impact of climate and weather on architectural design is profound, as the design of
buildings must consider local climatic conditions and durability. Climate influences factors such as
temperature, solar exposure, wind patterns, and precipitation levels, all of which shape building form,
orientation, materials, and systems. For instance, in hot and humid climates like the Philippines,
designs might incorporate natural ventilation, shading, and rainwater management to mitigate
overheating and flooding risks. Such climate-responsive design principles are crucial for sustainable
and resilient architecture.
Monsoon Seasons
 Wet Season (Habagat) – This season generally occurs from June to October. During this
period, the Southwest Monsoon brings heavy rainfall to the western side of the country, leading
to wet and often stormy conditions. The wet season is characterized by the occurrence of
typhoons (tropical cyclones) that can bring intense rainfall and strong winds.
 Dry Season (Amihan) – The dry season typically takes place from November to April. During
this time, the Northeast Monsoon dominates, resulting in drier and cooler conditions. However,
it’s important to note that even during the dry season, some parts of the Philippines can still
experience occasional rain and mild fluctuations.
Traditional Filipino Architecture Strategies for Dealing with the Sun:
 Wide Eaves – Traditional Filipino houses often feature wide eaves that extend beyond the
walls. These eaves provide ample shade, blocking direct sunlight from entering the building’s
interior. The result is a cooler indoor environment that reduces the need for artificial cooling.
 Elevated Structures – Stilt houses, known as “Bahay Kubo,” are a classical example of
elevated architecture in the Philippines. Raising the main living area off the ground not only
allows for ventilation but also mitigates flooding during heavy rains.
 Natural Ventilation – Open floor plans, elevated structures, and strategically placed windows
facilitate natural ventilation. Cross-ventilation allows cool breezes to flow through the building,
replacing hot air and improving comfort.
 Use of Indigenous Materials – Traditional Filipino architecture often utilizes indigenous
materials like bamboo, nipa palm, and cogon grass. These materials possess natural insulating
properties, helping requlate indoor temperatures.
 Aesthetic Elements – Traditional homes often incorporate decorative elements that serve
functional purposes. Bamboo screens and lattice-work allow for ventilation while adding
privacy and shading.
 Inherent Climate Adaptation – Indigenous architectural knowledge is deeply intertwined
with the climate. Traditional designs naturally adapt to the local weather conditions, offering
valuable lessons for contemporary architect.
 Respecting Cultural Identity – Incorporating traditional architectural features not only
addresses climate challenges but also preserves cultural identity and fosters a sense of
connection to the environment.
The challenges posed by heavy rain include the risk of flooding, soil erosion, and potential
structural damage. To address these challenges, architects incorporate various strategies into their
designs:
 Proper Drainage Systems – Architectural designs integrate efficient drainage systems that
direct rainwater away from building foundations, preventing water accumulations and potential
flooding.
 Elevated Structures – Raising buildings on stilts or elevated platforms is a traditional design
approach that reduces flood risks by keeping living spaces above potential water levels.
 Green Roofs and Rain Gardens – These features help manage rainwater by absorbing and
slowing down runoff, reducing the burden on drainage systems.
 Permeable Surfaces – Using permeable materials for pavements and walkways allows
rainwater to infiltrate the ground, minimizing surface runoff.
 Water Storage and Reuse – Implementing rainwater harvesting systems enables buildings to
collect and store the rainwater for various non-potable uses, such as irrigation or flushing
toilets.
 Effective Material Selection – Choosing durable and water-resistant building materials can
mitigate damage caused by heavy rain and prolonged exposure to moisture.
Typhoon Resilience
 Robust Structural Systems – Buildings should feature strong foundations, reinforced
columns, and durable framing systems capable of withstanding extreme and the impacts of
flying debris.
 Wind-Resistant Roofing – Roofs are particularly vulnerable. Implementing wind-resistant
roofing materials and secure fastening systems can prevent roof detachment and minimize
damage.
 Aerodynamic Shapes – Incorporating aerodynamic shapes and profiles reduces wind
resistance, deflecting wind away from vulnerable areas and decreasing the chances of structural
failure.
  Secure Openings – Windows, doors, and other openings are entry points for strong winds and
rain. Installing impact-resistant windows and reinforcing doors can help maintain the building
envelope’s integrity.
 Strategic Building Orientation – Properly orienting buildings relative to prevailing winds can
reduce their exposure to the strongest forces of the typhoon.
 Elevated Design – Raising buildings on stilts or elevated platforms can prevent flooding and
storm surge damage especially in coastal areas.
 Tight Building Envelope – Designing a tight building envelope with proper insulation and
sealing prevent rainwater intrusion and entrances energy efficiency.
 Bracing Systems – Incorporating diagonal bracing and shear walls in the building’s design
improves its ability to withstand lateral forces from strong winds.
 Use of Local Materials – Utilizing locally sourced, durable materials ensures that the building
can endure the climatic conditions unique to the Philippines.
 Regular Maintenance – Designing for resilience also includes planning for regular inspections
and maintenance to address wear and tear caused by typhoons.
Contemporary Architectural Responses:
 Sustainable Materials – Architects in the Philippines are increasingly incorporating locally
sourced and eco-friendly materials into their designs. Bamboo, for instance, is a sustainable
option that offers natural shading and helps regulate indoor temperatures.
 Green Roofs – The concept of green roofs is gaining traction in the Philippines to combat heat
and heavy rains. These roofs not only provide insulation but also manage stormwater runoff.
 Advanced Drainage Systems – Given the country's susceptibility to flooding, advanced
drainage systems are vital. Projects like the Bonifacio Global City Skytrain Terminal
incorporate efficient drainage to prevent water accumulation. Sustainable urban drainage
systems (SUDS) are being explored to manage rainwater at the source.
Design Considerations
 Site Analysis – Thoroughly analyze the site's topography, orientation, and natural features.
Consider factors like wind direction, solar exposure, and views to optimize the design's
relationship with the surroundings.
 Climate-Responsive Design – Given the tropical climate, focus on passive design strategies.
Incorporate ample ventilation, shading, and cross-ventilation to mitigate heat and humidity.
Utilize building materials with good thermal performance to reduce energy consumption.
 Local Materials and Techniques – Utilize indigenous materials and construction techniques
that are suited to the local climate. This enhances sustainability, reduces transportation costs,
and supports the local economy.
 Rainwater Management – Integrate rainwater harvesting systems to address water scarcity
and flooding issues. This can provide a sustainable water source and help manage excess
rainfall.
 Seismic Design – The Philippines is in a seismically active region. Implement earthquake-
resistant designs and structural systems to ensure the safety and durability of buildings.
 Cultural Sensitivity – Respect local cultures and traditions. Design spaces that resonate with
the local context, taking into account the cultural and social aspects of the community.
 Collaboration with Local Experts – Collaborate with local architects, engineers, and experts
who understand the region's specific challenges and opportunities. Their insights can lead to
more effective and contextually appropriate designs.
 Sustainability and Resilience – Prioritize sustainability by incorporating renewable energy
sources, efficient lighting, and water-saving technologies. Additionally, design with climate
resilience in mind to adapt to changing weather patterns and potential natural disasters.
Wind and Views
Wind and Wind Patterns
 The Philippines is located in the tropics and the weather and climate prevailing in any
particular place in the country is due to its geographical location and the different wind systems
that prevail in the locality during the different times of the year.
 In the Philippines, there are two natural prevailing wind systems; the Northeast Monsoon
(Amihan) from November to February and the Southwest Monsoon (Habagat) from July to
September.
 There are also the so-called trade winds, which are the winds in the tropics that generally come
from the East.
Ventilation – Moves outdoor air into a building or a room, and distributes the air within the building or
a room.
Types of Ventilation
 Natural Ventilation – Natural forces (e.g., winds and thermal buoyancy force due to indoor
and outdoor air density differences) drive outdoor air through purpose-build, building envelope
openings.
Types of Natural Ventilation
1. Single-sided Ventilation – The use of openings on one side of a building.
2. Cross Ventilation – Is when the openings in a structure are arranged on opposite or
adjacent walls, allowing air to enter from both sides, cross the space, and exit from the
opposite direction.
3. Stack Ventilation – Introduces cooler air from the outside into the building at a low
level, which gradually becomes warmer as it gets exposed to heat sources within the
space.
 Mechanical Ventilation – Is the intentional fan-driven flow of outdoor air into a building.
  Passive Cooling – Is a building design approach that focuses heat gain control and heat
dissipation in a building. (Example: Solar Chimneys)
Strategies for Designing a House in the Tropics: Wind Consideration
 Site Orientation – It is very important to consider the wind direction that can be channelized
through interior. In a nutshell, upper floors and roofs are exposed to more wind than lower
floors, and buildings with thin profiles facing into the path of prevailing winds are easier to
ventilate.
 Cross Ventilation – When placing ventilation openings, you are placing inlets and outlets to
optimize the path air follows through the building. Windows and vents placed on opposite sides
of the building give natural breezes a pathway through the structure.
 Windows and Openings – Naturally, the more openings in a house, the better the air flow.
But, too many windows also bring in heat. There should be a balance between the two though,
and there are ways to design and optimize the openings to create more efficient spaces.
National Building Cods related in Wind
1. Section 805. Ceiling Heights
a. Habitable Rooms with Natural Ventilation shall have a ceiling height not less than 2.70
meters.
b. Habitable Rooms with Artificial Ventilation shall have ceiling heights not less than2.40
meters measured from the floor to the ceiling. For buildings more than one-storey high,
the minimum ceiling height of the first floor shall be 2.70 meter and 2.40 meters for the
second floor. The succeeding floors shall have an unobstructed typical head room
clearance of not less than 2.10 meters above the finished floor.
c. Mezzanine Floors shall have a clear ceiling height not less than 1.80 meters above and
below it.
2. Section 808. Window Openings – Rooms intended for any use, not provided with artificial
ventilation system, shall be provided with a window 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.
3. Section 809. Vent Shafts – Unless open to the outer air at the top for its full area, vent shafts
shall be covered by a skylight having a net free area or fixed louver openings equal to the
maximum required shaft area.
4. Section 811. Artificial Ventilation – Rooms or spaces housing industrial or heating
equipment shall be provided with artificial means of ventilation to prevent excessive
accumulation of hot and/or polluted air.
Views
A sight or prospect, typically of attractive natural scenery, that can be taken in by the eye from
a particular place.
According to the engineers, it is a perspective view of an artistic one that represents an object
as it seems to the eye.
Types of Buildings for Worthy Views
1. Ground Level – Houses with a view of a large open area that sit on the ground level belong to
this category. It could be a meadow or woodland, as long as it’s a non-residential space. Many
people desire these prime properties since access to a good view is scarce when all neighboring
houses are on ground level.
2. Medium Elevation – A house will fall under this category if it sits on top of a small hill. The
house has an elevated position offering an obstruction-free view of the areas around it.
3. High Elevation – Houses on high ground level, offering a view beyond the community, have a
better value than those in medium elevation. Seeing the entire city right from your home gives
a significant boost.
Views and Projection
Types of Views Used in Drawings
The two main types of views/projections used in drawings are Pictorial and Orthographic.
Pictorial Views – Show a 3D view of how something should look when completed. There are three
types of pictorial views:
 Perspective – A perspective view presents a building or an object just as it would look to you.
It has vanishing point; that is, lines that moves away from you come together in a distance.
 Isometric – A 3D view where the plumb lines are vertical and the horizontal lines are set at 30-
degree angles from a line parallel to the bottom of the page. Isometric views have no vanishing
point, so the objects do not appear as they would in a perspective view. Lengths are exact on
isometric drawings only when the item is parallel to one of the axes of the drawing.
 Oblique
Multi-view (Orthographic) Drawings – Orthographic projection, a common method of representing
three-dimensional objects, usually by three two-dimensional drawings in each of which the object is
viewed along parallel lines that are perpendicular to the plane of the drawing. (Example: Top, Front,
Rear, and Sides View)
Floor Plan – A floor plan (or floor drawing) is an orthographic plan view (or top view) looking down
on the various floor levels. Floor plans are one of the most important drawings for construction, as they
provide the most information about the building. Floor plans identify rooms by name or number.
Elevation Drawing – An elevation drawing (called an elevation) is a view of any vertical surface and
is taken from the floor plans. Normally, elevation drawings include the front, back, and side
orthographic projections of the buildings. The elevation drawings show what the exterior of the
building will look like when it is finished. The drawings show the finished grade line, the finish
materials, and the door and the window locations. Elevation drawings may also show interior walls that
have special features, such as fireplaces or kitchen cabinets.
Section Drawing – They provide detailed drawings of the cross-section of a building or wall unit.
Strategies for Designing a House in the Tropics: View Consideration
 Orientation – The strategic placement of the building on a site. Properly oriented houses that
provides better views for locations with natural, scenic surroundings.
 Exterior Spaces – Open planning is an ideal space layout for tropical houses. Incorporating
exterior spaces such as patios, verandas, and courtyards are beneficial to have as part of your
home. In addition, outdoor spaces are a great way to connect people with the natural
environment.
National Building Codes related in Views
1. Article 582 of the Civil Code – Windows with direct views, or balconies or any similar
openings projecting over the estate of the neighbor can not be made if there is not a distance of,
at least, two meters between the wall in which they are built and said estate. Neither can side
nor oblique views be opened over said property, unless there is a distance of sixty (60) meters.
2. Section 105. Site Requirements - The land or site upon which will be constructed any
building or structure, or any ancillary or auxiliary facility thereto, shall be sanitary, hygienic or
safe. In the case of sites or buildings intended for use as human habitation or abode, the same
shall be at a safe distance, as determined by competent authorities, from streams or bodies of
water and/or source of air considered to be polluted; from a volcano or volcanic site and/or any
other building considered to be a potential source of fire or explosion.
3. Section 704. Location on Property – This section outlines regulations related to the location,
fire resistance of walls, and buildings on the same property. It requires buildings to have access
to public spaces or streets, specifies fire resistance requirements for exterior walls, and allows
multiple buildings on the same property to be treated as one under certain conditions, based on
factors such as occupancy and construction type.
Technical
Bubble Diagram – Systems of lines and circles used in architecture to show relationships between
functional areas of a program to develop an architectural plan.
Site Development Plan – They have two functions. First, they illustrate the intended design,
arrangement and users of the land to be improved. Second, they describe the proposal’s physical, social
and economic effects on the community. The plans may be in either or both narrative and graphic form,
as appropriate.
Floor Plan – Scale drawings that show the relationship between rooms, spaces and physical features
viewed from above. They provide a way to visualize how people will move through the space.
Roof Plan – A roof plan includes roof dimensions, specifications for roof pitch/slope, the placement of
vents and drainage, and material specifications.
Elevation – It is drawn from a vertical plane looking straight on to a building façade or interior surface.
This is as if you’re directly in front of a building and looked straight at it. Elevations are a common
design drawing and technical architecture or engineering convention for graphic representation of
architecture.
Section – It is an orthographic projection of an object as if it would appear cut vertically by an
intersecting plane. A section is drawn similar to a floor plan, but vertically. What is most important in a
section is the information that is cut through.
Doors and Windows Schedule – Critical components of an architectural drawing set. They provide an
itemized list of all doors and doors within the project. Door and Window schedules provide a central
location for detailed information including head and jamb details or hardware sets.
Planning Considerations
Sound Planning Considerations
1. Distribution – Refers to the placement, location and arrangement of each room unit in relation
with each other as functions and coordination. One particular example is the interrelation
between the dining and the kitchen which primarily requires accessibility on food servicing.
These area units are interrelated and should not be far from each other.
2. Circulation – Like roads and highways with traffic problems, traffic is also present inside the
building that must be considered in planning. Circulation and movement of the occupants
inside the building should not be hampered by any obstacles nor be detoured as a result of poor
planning. In short, the design of the floor plan, be it residential, commercial of industrial type,
must address the traffic condition inside the building without the necessity of using green and
red lights signal.
3. Light and Ventilation – There is no substitute for a good daylight and fresh natural air
entering and circulating inside the building. Artificial lighting and ventilation are very costly to
those who cannot afford, but others prefer it for maximum comfort regardless of costs. The
design, therefore, depends upon the preferences of the owner. Section 808 of the National
Building Code on Windows Opening states that: “Every room intended for any use and not
equipped with artificial ventilation system, shall be provided with window or windows with a
total free opening area equal to at least ten percent of the room floor area, and such window
open directly to a court yard, public street or alley, or open water courses.”
4. Sizes, Area, and Shapes – All rooms are intended for human us, and therefore, should be
planned according to human scale. Good design always provides ample areas to accommodate
 furniture, appliances, and other related facilities, including the most critical and important lanes
or pathways for routinary movements inside the house. The shape as to plan and elevations
should be strictly functional, not fancy in character. Section 806 of the National Building Code
of the Philippines of Rooms.
5. Orientation – Refers to the position and direction of the sunrise and sunset. It also includes the
prevailing wind directions in the area for the year round. A brief nap or rest at mid-day or in the
afternoon is normally done in the bedroom. Thus, bedroom should not be oriented facing the
afternoon sun. The kitchen laundry and bathroom is better oriented west for sunlight kills many
types of bacteria.
6. Zoning Laws – The zoning ordinance should be consulted first before deciding on the final site
of the house or the building. You might be constructing your residential house and industrial or
commercial zone. Of course, the family would be very happy if theirs is constructed in
residential areas provided with right facilities like; market, school and playground, church, etc.
7. Height – A moderate high ceiling allows fresh air circulation, comfortable, atmosphere, and
preserved aesthetic value of the room. Room with low ceiling, has warm atmosphere that
requires artificial ventilation. Section 805 and 807 of the National Building Code of the
Philippines encompasses this.
8. Electrical Layout – Although this facility may be considered secondary aspect in planning
residential house, electrical layout was included because common errors were committed when
the location of switches and outlets are not properly in-placed. An ideal convenience outlet is
installed 30 centimeters above the floor line, and not more than 1.00 meter away from the
appliances to be served.
9. Plumbing Layout – Plumbing drawings provide all pertinent information on the design of the
plumbing system for a project, including line sizes and location, fixture location, isolation
valves, storage-tank capacities, hot-water-heater capacities and locations, and drain locations
and routing. Plumbing systems involve two major component, water supply and drainage.
Water is supplied under pressure through pipes to plumbing fixtures. Drainage works by
gravity. Drain pipes must slop downward. Vent pipes are required. A plumbing floor plan show
the location and type of plumbing fixtures, as well as the route pipes will ran through (overhead
or through walls) for potable water, drainage, waste, and vents.
10. Location of Doors – When a door becomes an obstacle creating inconveniences to the
occupant, that is the time we realized the mistake of not analyzing its proper position from the
early stage of planning.
11. Superstition – Although superstition has no page in the book of contemporary Architecture, if
your client believes and insist that his life success depends on luck brought about by his
superstitious beliefs, then, as a planner, you have no choice but to do what your client says, if
you do not want to lose your bread and butter.