Interview with the 1st Placer : MARK STEVEN VALDE
- Mark Steven Valde“The Best practice for an architecture student is to point your pen on a piece of paper then and start to draw simple lines without looking down at your paper. And when you look at your paper, you will see a line without direction, but after a while you will learn how to see and how to improve architecture better that way.”
A
senior Architecture student from Cebu Institute of Technology, Mark Steven
Valde won the 1st place of the 2nd Polycarbonate Sheets
Architectural Design Competition organized by S.E.A Olympus Marketing
Incorporated held last July 2013 and sponsored by Sunshield Polycarbonate Sheets, Sunlite
Polycarbonate Sheets and Shutter Polycarbonate Sheets.
The competition challenged Architecture Students
to submit a modern house design that best demonstrates the utilization of
eco-friendly technologies in a holistic environmentally sustainable and
contemporary manner. The design approach should also integrate the modern
trends in architecture and the most innovative and original use of Shutter
Canopy System.
In our interview, he humbly
shared his thoughts and his dream.
Tell
us a little bit about your background.
I am the third of five siblings of Mr. Jessie and Mrs. Trinidad Valde and currently a senior student of Cebu Institute of Technology-University. I'm a sports fan and I love music. Apart from that, I spent much time on the computer doing design work. When I was a kid I did a lot of sketching consuming pads of paper on it that my mom has to buy me several pads a week. She then realized how I love drawing and design now that I'm pursuing a career in architecture
Why
did you decide to become an architect?
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| Mark Steven Valde's Winning Design |
Architecture
has always fascinated me. I realized that architecture is more than just
sketches and drawings. It is a responsibility to provide people with shelter
and communities for a healthy and sustainable life. I want to be part of those
who make this great contribution to society that's why I took up architecture.
What
are the essential things that you learned in architecture?
In
architecture one has to integrate the three important aspects in design: Utilitas,
Firmitas and Venustas. These three elements should altogether be present in
design if architecture is to exist. I believe that as architecture is the
highest form of art because you do not only visually appreciate it, you
experience architecture. People influences architecture and vice-versa and it
becomes part of our daily lives.
As
an Architecture Student, what have you found to be the most interesting and
challenging aspects of your education?
One
of the most interesting and challenging part of being an architecture student
is crossing through the edge of tomorrow's deadline and passing through the
standards of every instructor. Sleepless nights for a whole week is one of the
most common habits of every architecture student and sometimes we miss our
other subjects just to finish the plates to be passed on the next day. However,
those are the facts that we learned to accept as part of our profession because
sooner or later it abides us for the rest of our lives. Time management is one
of our teachers' advice in order to cope with all our obligations but we cannot
deny that it is literally in our "DNA" that sometimes we feel tired
and lazy.
Talk
to me about your design philosophy.
My
philosophical point of view of designing structures is to find the equilibrium
of building elements and appropriate design measures. Consideration of the
three fundamental factors of design is very important. A building will be
called good, appropriate and balanced when it is aesthetically appealing,
functionally designed, and economically constructed. As a planner and a
designer in the near future, I am starting instilling a deep sense of
responsibility between people around and their built-environment. Part of my
design philosophy is to bring back the presence of the design to the
environment, not the environment to the design to create a new sustainable
architectural gestalt so that we are free to design a building without
compromising the inhabitants of future generations.
How
did you discover your love for architecture?
I
believe it is innate. As far back as I can remember, sketching the dragonballz,
super heroes, creating helicopters, ice cream machines, toy cars and so many to
mention when I was still in grade school was my hobby my 2 younger brothers
would even cry because I already destroyed their toys due to the inner drive in
me to create new designs out of anything. My mom also told me that I have a
spatial intelligence because even if I was sleeping while travelling, it's so
easy for me to recognize the place where in, and when where home from a
vacation, I used to draw the buildings, cars, parks and etc that I saw during
the travel. I learned to love creating new designs. So I believe, it was only
enhanced as time passed by because a remarkable stage in my life where in my
architectural skill was challenged, was when our school mandated us to take
drafting and civil technology as our t.h.e. subject, and I was the only
contingent of our school to participate in the regional contest for house
planning and design which took place when I was in 3rd and 4th year high school
only. I really enjoyed it and I excelled in drafting, house planning and
design. By then, it triggered me to take up architecture in college. so, all of
these convinced me that an architect is what I wanted to be even though I'm not
yet certain of what it would offer me. all I'm doing now is giving the best I
can, for surely God has the best plan for me. I also believe that this is the
field where God can use me as a channel of blessings to other people for he is
the best architect at all times.
If
you could take an architectural tour of any place in the world, where would you
go? And Why
I
want to visit Venice, California because I want to meet my favorite architect
named architect David Hertz so I can see his green and sustainable house and
his awesome residential building projects especially the one that is made up of
different wings from scrapped airplanes. if time allow me to travel outside the
country, I will visit PETRONAS tower of Malaysia, Burj Khalifa tower of Dubai,
Angkor Wat in Cambodia, Pyramid of Egypt and etc.
Name
your favorite architects and what do you admire about their work?
As
mentioned above, my favorite architect is Arch. David Hertz. I always admire
him because he has a brilliant mind about thinking radical design concepts and
solutions to all his projects. He is actually a very smart architect. He is
very particular about the environmental impact of his designs. One of his
projects that made me so impressed is the 747 Wing House that is made up of
different wings from scrapped airplanes. in addition, I admire architect,
engineer and sculpture Santiago Calatrava, architect Zaha Hadid, architect Kenzo
Tange, architect Frank Gehry, architect Le Corbusier and architect Richard
Meier to their apparent works.
How
do you keep up with new technologies and trends in the world of
Architecture
and design?
I
purchased some architectural books that I think beneficial for me. Also, I read
books, magazines, journals and surfing the net. These provide me the needed
access to be updated in the current trends in the design industry.
Do
you have a dream project? If so, can you share what that is and why?
I
want to design complexes and high rise building. The complexity and stage of
these projects is a challenge for aspiring architects. Besides, I imagine on
how to handle big projects so that in the near future if I already have a
license to design a building, there, I can say I am ready to face the small and
big challenges in life in the field of architecture. I could say that I am
capable enough to compete with some other architects, planners and designers in
the real world of profession. My ultimate dream project is to create an
ecological city that makes life comfortable within the perimeter.
What
advice would you give someone wanting to break into this career?
Determination,
perseverance, patience, hard work, time management and knowing the priorities
are essential things that an architecture student needs to consider. Take
advantage of every opportunity that comes your way. Be prepared for new
challenges might come unexpectedly. Don't plan on having much in life but
rather be humble and live just like ordinary person but has extraordinary
ability. Do not limit your mind, think beyond the box. Keep yourself grounded
and be fair to everyone. Always bear in mind that what you have and who
you are now, it is because God gives you the strength to cope with all the
pressures you encounter every moment of your life, To God be the glory.
NEW! Shutter Canopy System
In traditional
construction methods, regardless of the use of PC sheet, glass or
plastic sheet, when the sun is hot in the mid-day, room temperature
will form stuffy and hot which makes you feel unbearable, when there
is no air convection.
The portfolio can be fully resolved. Frame with sheet metal design point of view the use of Shutter twin-wall insulated center structure which completely blocks direct sunlight from entering, it reduces the increase of heat.
Specification
With
the combination demands of ventilation, we provide 3 methods of
choices; Skylight purposes, Roofing and partition purposes.
1.
Skylight
With the holes on the horizontal bar, it allows hot air to discharge naturally, driven air circulation within the surrounding. Effectively reduce the problem of poor ventilated air within the area.
Slant Structure applies the design of bindings effectively block direct sunlight inorder to reduce heat within the area. Retain appropriate light to shine through. Apply the heat rise application on this design with cooling holes of 50cm to effectively releasing the outflow of heat naturally into the cold air.
2. Roofing Ventilation
Engineering methods, rows of cooling holes of 50cm, vents will boot to the roof in hot air naturally discharge.
With the holes on the horizontal bar, it allows hot air to discharge naturally, driven air circulation within the surrounding. Effectively reduce the problem of poor ventilated air within the area.
Slant Structure applies the design of bindings effectively block direct sunlight inorder to reduce heat within the area. Retain appropriate light to shine through. Apply the heat rise application on this design with cooling holes of 50cm to effectively releasing the outflow of heat naturally into the cold air.
2. Roofing Ventilation
Engineering methods, rows of cooling holes of 50cm, vents will boot to the roof in hot air naturally discharge.
Elegance finishing appearance,
improve shortcoming of traditional exhaust valve protruding
building.
3. Wall partition
With every 30cm a row if cooling holes combine with main building, the holes to create comfortable lighting space.
3. Wall partition
With every 30cm a row if cooling holes combine with main building, the holes to create comfortable lighting space.
The
design provides vents to open and close function, in hot and cold
season can be adjusted to the needs of the ventilated rate.
2nd Polycarbonate Sheets Architectural Design Competition
2nd
Polycarbonate Sheets Architectural Design
Competition
Guidelines
Theme: “Sustainable structure for
the developing world.”
I. The design challenge:
We are inviting all Architecture
Students to submit a modern house design that best demonstrates the
utilization of eco-friendly technologies in a holistic
environmentally sustainable and contemporary manner. The
design approach should also integrate the modern trends in
architecture and the most innovative
and original use of Shutter Canopy System.
II. Competition Guidelines:
Eligibility
This competition is open to students
currently enrolled in any architecture-related program, such as
Architecture, Landscape, Construction Management, Interior Design, or
any program with an emphasis on the built environment (undergraduate
in any year level). Competition entries must be the work of an
individual. All schools and students wishing to participate must
fill-up the registration forms.
Competition Schedule
- ActivitiesDate
Submission of Entries On or before July 15 Most Popular Award Voting Period July 17-22 Announcement of Top 20 Entries July 23 Final Judging July 27 Announcement of Winners July 29
This competition will run from June to
July 2013. All entries must be submitted no later than 5:00pm on
Monday, July 15, 2013.
Submission Mechanics
A. Registration
Interested participants must
demonstrate that they fulfill the eligibility criteria by completing
the registration form and by providing the requested information as
requirements.
- School ID
- Enrollment slip for the 1st Semester of 2013
Presentation Format
Designers are allowed to use any media (3D software or sketch). However, all boards must be presented in digital image format (.jpg). The maximum size of design is not more 24”x36” in 300dpi.
The design proposal must include a 150
words or less description to make it fully understandable. Any other
type of presentation will be disqualified.
All board entries must be submitted
electronically by July 15, 2013 to SEA Olympus Marketing, Inc. email
address: contest@olympus.com.ph
Registration must be completed prior to project submission.
Preliminary judging will be conducted
by OMI team to verify projects meet required competition rules and
requirements. Final judging will be conducted by an appointed panel
of 3-5 judges. The jury will be composed of Professional Architects,
Civil Engineer and OMI Personnel. Winners will be notified of the
competition results directly.
Entries will be evaluated upon design
merit, quality of innovative ideas and the impact of the proposal to
the theme. Each design will be judged by a panel of experts based on
the following criteria:
Relevance to the theme
20%
Clear and easily comprehensible design
-both architectural and structural 25%
Originality, Innovations, Aesthetic and
Uniqueness of Design 30%
Cleverness and appropriate use of
Shutter Canopy System 25%
Most Popular Awards (Facebook Likes)
All entries that passed in the
preliminary judging will be posted on OMI Polycarbonate Sheets'
Facebook Fan Page and qualified for the most popular design awards.
Winners will be determined through the most number of likes.
Guidelines
of Most Popular Award:
1.
Contest period is from July 17, 2012 –July 22, 2013.
2.
3 entries with the highest number of likes will be declared winners.
Announcement of winners will be on July 29, 2013.
3.
Using of dummy accounts is not allowed. All likes using dummy
accounts will be considered invalid.
4.
Winners declared by OMI are final.
Copyright
The
author's rights for a competition entry remain with the author. SEA
Olympus Marketing Inc. is entitled to make use of the winning entries
for our websites or in other marketing promotions related to
Polycarbonate Sheets.
Angular Corrugated Sheets: Locate Your Nearest Branch in Mindanao
Angular corrugated sheets are designed to match specific profiled metal sheets used in industrial roofing. This is also suitable for general roofing and side glazing applications such as public swimming pools, sports stadiums, and greenhouses.
Angular corrugated sheets are flexible and modern than any roofing options. There are two types of angular corrugated sheets – Greca and Artiste.
Our branches in Mindanao are conveniently located in your areas and ready to provide whatever you need. Contact inquiry@olympus.com.ph for more details!
Sunshield Polycarbonate Sheets welcomes all inquiries, comments and suggestion. Leave us a message and we will get back to you immediately. You can also email us at inquiry@olympus.com.ph.
Angular corrugated sheets are flexible and modern than any roofing options. There are two types of angular corrugated sheets – Greca and Artiste.
Our branches in Mindanao are conveniently located in your areas and ready to provide whatever you need. Contact inquiry@olympus.com.ph for more details!
Sunshield Polycarbonate Sheets welcomes all inquiries, comments and suggestion. Leave us a message and we will get back to you immediately. You can also email us at inquiry@olympus.com.ph.
Protection Guaranteed
Riot
shields are lightweight protection devices used by police and some
military services (but they actually look heavy especially when you
see them carried by responding policemen on television news).
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aliexpress.com
|
Some
riot shields are made of glass and steel with a view hole. Riot
shields are exclusively long enough to cover an average man from the
top of the head to the knees. Some of these protective materials are
designed to be impenetrable to bullets of low velocity handgun and
shotgun, but most are not.
They
are generally intended for riot control, protection of users from
shrapnel, thrown projectiles, and splash from various weapons. Though
glass and metal materials are incomparable to polycarbonate, they
somehow give a disadvantage to the shield users.
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http://wodumedia.com
|
Both
acrylic glass and metal materials are heavy, thus difficult to handle
with while riot shield made of polycarbonate material is lightweight,
thus easier to handle, plus it offers additional advantages.
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made-in-china.com
|
Polycarbonate
material is technically stronger than acrylic glass up to 250 times.
Having this material installed in equipments like riot shield is
advantageous since the material does not break, smash or crack, thus
help protect the eyes of the officer.
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http://esser.ca
|
It
also offers UV protection which prevents color-fading of the
material. It also has an excellent weathering resistance. This makes
the product last long amidst differing weather and atmospheric
conditions.
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http://hopeforzombies.com
|
So
before purchasing riot shield for security manpower, consider the
pros and cons of the materials used. Weigh down the most desired and
practical product to use for such heavy duty.
Sunshield Polycarbonate Sheets welcomes all inquiries, comments and suggestion. Leave us a message and we will get back to you immediately. You can also email us at inquiry@olympus.com.ph.
Sunshield Polycarbonate Sheets welcomes all inquiries, comments and suggestion. Leave us a message and we will get back to you immediately. You can also email us at inquiry@olympus.com.ph.
Signage, Light Up!
Illuminated
signs are the best way to advertise your business 24/7. Since it is most
attractive especially at night and visible for twenty four (24)
hours; day and night, many business owners opt for this publicity move.
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http://www.ledneonsignshop.com
|
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http://www.smart-group.co.uk
|
It is
not only for business and advertising purposes, it can also be used
for site identification. This is most helpful especially to
person's who have heard something (place or brand) for the first time.
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http://www.signsnowdayton.com
|
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http://www.lasvegassun.com
|
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| sunshield.com.ph |
Polycarbonate
sheet offers multiple advantages. First and foremost, it is
lightweight, thus easier to handle. Second, it offers maximum design
freedom and aesthetic and lastly, it provides high weather
resistance. Hence, the practicability of using this material for
signage specially for outdoor use.
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http://www.directsignwholesale.com
|
Relaxing Sky-Viewing Roof
Polycarbonate
roofing offers not only multiple advantages for its valuable material but also the luxury it
provides straight from your home. There are varieties of polycarbonate
sheets to suit your needs and desired purpose design.
Clear
polycarbonate roofing for patios and/or backyard covers are perfect
for sky-watching enthusiasts
especially those who enjoy watching the night sky during relaxation
periods or before going to bed.
This may also be perfect if you
desire amounts of sunlight to seep through your place/house.
Transparent
roofing does not only lets great amount of sunlight into your
personal space for green things, this also becomes your lighting
system during daylight whenever you feel spending most of your daytime in your patios.
 |
http://www.finesse-doubleglazing-derbyshire.com
|
With
a clear polycarbonate sheet for roofing, opening to the outside world
becomes more accessible even within the safety of your home.
This
typically widens your view to the outside environment from the skies
to the surrounding elements.
There
is none more comfortable enjoying any relaxations than doing it at
the comforts of your home. Aside that it is safe, you don't have to
forget anything to your outdoor activities since you can easily grab
them in the house.
The
picture below uses clear polycarbonate roofing. With this, an outdoor
feel is also incorporated in the convenience of your sanctuary.
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http://www.travertinewarehouse.com
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No
matter what you want to achieve, never get scared to experiment on
new things and inquire for best answers. You might be surprised when
you see breathtaking results.
Sunshield Polycarbonate Sheets welcomes all inquiries, comments and suggestion. Leave us a message and we will get back to you immediately. You can also email us at inquiry@olympus.com.ph.
Industry Forum 2012: "Business Prospect In 2013"
Sea Olympus Marketing,
Inc. has once again been invited for University of San Carlos CAFA's
Industry Forum 2012: “Business Prospect in 2013” held last 15th
of December, Saturday at CAFA Theater.
This forum aims to
enlighten students about the up-to-date innovations in relation to
the participating industries' marketing strategies for the upcoming
year 2013.
This was attended by two
(2) of the company heads: Brand Manager Ms. Jewel B. Jalandoni and
Store Operation's Head, Ms. Vida Aurora Llevares, along with other
participating companies.
In behalf of Sea Olympus
Marketing, Inc. we would like to extend our sincerest Congratulations
and deepest gratitude to Dean of University of San Carlos- College of
Architecture and Fine Arts, Joseph Michael P. Espina, MURP, as well
as the organizers of the event for giving us an opportunity to be a
part of an enriching academic activity.
Polycarbonate Eyewear
And who would've thought our favorite fashion
accessory the “sunglasses” and the very helpful eyeglasses can be made of polycarbonate sheets?
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ehow.com
|
Polycarbonate glasses
cover a wide range of eye wear, from correction eyeglasses,
sunglasses, sports glasses to children's eyeglasses. This was developed
during the 1980s by astronauts for response to the demand for
lightweight, impact-resistant lenses. Also, polycarbonate glasses are
perfect for rimless spectacles since this come from solid material
and is then melted and rapidly injected into a mold, unlike other
usual plastic lenses.
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tso.com
|
Polycarbonate glasses offer
several advantages:
- It is 1/6 lighter than glass and 1/3 than acrylic.
- It has higher impact resistance of about 200 times making it more appropriate for eye wear meeting extreme activities like sports. In an article by Crystal Shwanke of Polycarbonate Lens Repair, she stated that “when they do "shatter" they do so in a way that prevents small pieces of the material from finding its way into your eyes,” proves the safety of polycarbonate glasses.
- Though this material is robust, this still needs frames to hold them to be placed on your eyes. You just have to visit your optician so that proper fitting can be made.
- It is equipped with natural UV filter which helps protect the eyes from the sun's damaging UV rays so there is no need for an extra budget for UV coating.
- One lap side of polycarbonate glass is that it is not scratch resistant, so the extra budget for UV coating goes to the scratch-resistant coating.
dawsonsvisioncenter.com
Sunshield Polycarbonate Sheets
welcomes all inquiries, comments and suggestion. Leave us a message
and we will get back to you immediately. You can also email us at
inquiry@olympus.com.ph.
Interview with Michael Luigi Manzano: Improving Quality of Life -through Architecture
“Architecture isn't just sculpture; architecture is about creating forms to compensate issues regarding strength, function, beauty, and sustainability.”
Michael Luigi Manzano is the 3rd Placer of the 1st Polycarbonate Sheets Architectural Design Competition held last June-July 2012, sponsored by Sunshield Polycarbonate Sheets, Sunlite Polycarbonate Sheets and Shutter Polycarbonate Sheets. He explains that he takes his inspirations from life in general. His ideas are based on street life, community, ordinary people and culture. That is why he thinks that it is incredibly important to have a specific connection with normal life.
Luigi believes that Architecture is not an abstract idea to build the building which you like or not. It is something that belongs to life because it connects history through the past into the present and even beyond the future. The point of architecture is to contribute to the culture of a community or the culture of a nation. Architecture changes the way you see yourself, the way others see you. Read on to see what this humble young man has to say about his dream for the future generations.
Can you give us a brief background of yourself?
I am a fourth year architecture student of Cebu Institute of Technology-University. I have my dad, Franklin Manzano, and my mom, Cora Manzano, who both show great support for my course and what I really want to be in the future. I also have my sister, Kristine Angeli Manzano. I love to draw, sit in front of the computer, and play chess. Sometimes, I read articles or books that discuss topics I am curious about. I am a sport enthusiast although my favorite sport is football. People say I am a silent and serious type but I love to mingle and have fun with my friends.
Who and what inspires you to become an architect?
Ever since I was in grade school, I always draw buildings and structures in my small drawing book and show these to my parents. I don't know what inspired me. All I wanted is to create something big, let people see and experience it, and give them satisfaction. At the end of the day, I want my structure to stand through time and let people in the succeeding generations able to see it. Nobody in my bloodline is an architect; I hope I'm going to be the first in my clan.
Do you have a dream project? What is your dream project?
My dream was first shallow- "to create something big, let people see and experience it, and give them satisfaction". But as I traveled longer in my journey to become an architect, I wanted to create a deeper goal. My dream project is to create a charity that will build zero energy settlements for Filipinos below poverty line. Though hard to realize, I want to build Filipino houses that have no bills, flexible, and can grow through time. I wanted to change the phase of Filipino architecture - sustainable, responsible, and respectful Filipino Architecture.
What was the most impressive structure you have seen and why?
Although far from sustainable, I am really impressed by Burj Khalifa's mighty height. As I watched the documentary "Big, Bigger, Biggest", I realized that Burj Khalifa isn't just another tall building, it underwent a very unique and comprehensive process that allowed it to stand tall. It was at that moment I realized architecture isn't just sculpture; architecture is about creating forms to compensate issues regarding strength, function, beauty, and sustainability.
What was the most challenging part of being an architecture student?
Fighting drowsiness. We always get into a dilemma of which to choose - finishing our plates in time or passing in our quiz the next day. This is the reason why we lack of sleep almost every night to manage our time for all our subjects. Sometimes, we have to miss our other classes. And sometimes, although we come to class, we can't help but sleep. Our teachers always say we do wrong in managing our time but I think it's part of every architecture student's life. This makes architecture one of the hardest courses.
Are there people in the field of architecture (both international and local) whom you admire most?
Yes, I always admire Shigeru Ban and his paper structures. They are simply amazing. His buildings state that even the lightest materials can be the strongest. People always consider used paper as trash or inferior and wood as impulse choice for constructing buildings. However, this brilliant Japanese was able to provide possibilities which can inspire people like me to create new, unique, and almost impossible concepts for the progress of a community and the survival of our natural resources.
As an individual who is into architecture, what are the things that you're still planning to do?
I have a lot of plans in life but most are just short-termed. As of now, I just want to focus on my goal to become an architect to help my parents someday and ultimately, to improve the lives of Filipinos through architecture.
Interview with Ongie Jimenez: Architects Create Something Out of Nothing
“Nature is the greatest teacher for me and even became my solid inspiration in every project that I encountered. It is the best design to be emulated, for until now, it lasted billions of years and some are still in existent up to this time.”
Onginev Jimenez, a 5th year student of University of Santo Tomas, has risen to become one of the most talented architecture students today. His design inspired by a unique contextual awareness has put him into the 2nd place of the recent 1st Polycarbonate Architectural Design Competition held last June-July 2012 and sponsored by Sunshield Polycarbonate Sheets, Sunlite Polycarbonate Sheets and Shutter Polycarbonate Sheets.
It also comes as no surprise that his work has garnered him wide acclaim not only from critics, but most notably, from his contemporaries. On this rare occasion, Ongie answered few of our questions regarding his style, design, and even a little something about his childhood. Read on to see what this innovative thinker has to say about his journey in the world of architecture.
Can you give us a brief background of yourself?
Whenever I have my free time, you will probably find me at a corner of a room, doodling or sketching anything. I haven’t changed much since my teenage computer gaming days, for up to now you can still see me in front of the computer, but not with playing games anymore, instead, playing with architectural models and programs.
I always feel excited when a new project arrives, from the day of conception, to completion. I never felt that I was working. I certainly found elation and delight when working with architectural models, designs of houses and other structures. I am also into architectural animations and 3D rendering and also got some sidelines from these skills and talent.
What is architecture for you?
PERSPECTIVE. It's not only about architecture, but I also apply it with my everyday life experience. I am talking about how we perceive things. We have the vision to take a sneak peek into the future, on how the environment and surroundings would look like. Architecture is about perspective. Turn threats into opportunities, turn weaknesses into strengths, and I know, it will help us succeed with our endeavors. Have a positive outlook in life.
What makes you interested in the field of architecture?
“Deus Architectus Mundi, Architectus Secundus Deus." "God is the architect of the world, Architects are second to God". Architects create something out of nothing. I am always fascinated with tall glamorous buildings that soar our skyline. The constant conurbation influx of ideas and constant agglomeration of problems has driven me to move forward, emulate and innovate new solutions. We should learn how to start from plinth, until we build our own obelisk. Every project requires a different approach and solution. Therefore, architecture is not routinely done, there is always something new.
What style or approach in architecture and design do you like the most?
Deconstructivism. There is always beauty in chaos. As I have said, it’s all about perspective. This style gives out a natural order from chaos, which will not only convey expressions to its users, but it also gives a different notion of architecture. Thinking outside the box.
What are the structures that you like the most?
Lyon Airport Station and Milwaukee Art Museum by Santiago Calatrava. I always wanted architecture that were not conventional. Architecture that is dynamic gives a pleasant sensation to the viewers. I am also fascinated with how architects plan spaces in relevance to transportation. Management and the ease of navigating inside the structure was a great mystery for me. There were some ambiguities in how they transport different kinds of users, people, travelers, onlookers and bystanders in a big shell but still zoned the spaces so that the users wouldn't overlap with the other users' spaces. Architecture about transportation is always the best type of structure for me.
What is the most challenging part of being an architecture student?
Architecture in the university is branded "The College that never sleeps". Sleep deprivation is one of those challenges that we learned to accept in the span of 5 years. We already adapted the norm of the college for it slowly trains us and hone us into better individuals. In the near future, endless deadlines and sleepless nights will accompany us for the rest of our lives. Beating deadlines, staying awake for a whole week to pass the plate, and absence of social life is the challenging part of our college life.
Are there people in the field of architecture whom you admire most?
Architect - Engineer Santiago Calatrava of Spain. He is a world renowned architect, engineer, and a sculptor as well. It was very evident in his works that buildings were inhabited sculptures. I have never seen any architectural works that equalized the level of aesthetics as he has attained. For local architects, I admire Architect Dan Lichauco, a respectable professor from University of Santo Tomas, a principal architect of Archion Architects, and a registered planner at the same time. I also admire Architect Manuel Maximo Lopez del Castillo-Noche and Architect Felicisimo Azagra Tejuco, Jr., two of the most reputable architects in the country.
As an architecture student, what do you want to achieve in the future?
I know the idea would be far fetched, but I wanted to be the first ever Filipino to grab hold onto the ever elusive Pritzker Prize Award. It is often referred to as a Nobel Prize for Architecture, and is the highest honor that an architect can ever obtain. I also wanted to be a National Artist for Architecture. The National Artist Award is a title given to a Filipino who has been given the highest recognition for having made significant contributions to the development of Philippine Arts.
I'll set my goals high, and aim for the best to attain these goals.
