Sunday, March 02, 2008 Fitting in By Arch’t. Karl A.E.F. Cabilao, UAP
SORE thumbs are a no-no in architectural design. Okay, an architect aims to make his building stand out, but he also has to consider the neighboring structures (especially the iconic and the historical) and its environment.
When the recently inaugurated Law and Graduate Business School Building of the University of San Carlos (USC) was conceptualized, its form and exterior were designed to reflect the qualities of its “mother” edifice nearby. It’s the centuries-old USC Main Building at the corner of P. del Rosario and Pelaez streets. That is according to its architect, Ellis Puerto, when asked how he came up with the building design.
Site parameters. The building design is adapted to the miniscule lot size. Space requirements were perfectly met: 30 spacious classrooms, a faculty room, audio visual room, lobby, basement parking and a moot court.
Dealing with nature. The building façade faces the west, the juncture where the intense afternoon sun seeks its refuge. Thus, the classrooms and other enclosed spaces were placed at the rear portion of the building. This location is also perfect in shielding the hallowed places for lectures from the distracting street noise.
The building also allows ample amount of natural ventilation to waft through the interiors, such as in the corridors and the lobby. The atrium channels warm air from the bottom toward the top where it is released again outside. Yes, the building can breathe normally.
Urban design. The new school building is near the old and historic downtown district. Old (and at times neglected) buildings abound. The USC Main building, which is near the new one, is a heritage landmark.
The building employs the classical symmetry of a typical institutional building—a distinguishable entrance portal (crowned by the school logo) bisecting the structure. However, the two parts that came out each reflects interesting variety of shapes and forms in the façade. The contemporary institutional edifice is definitely a welcome aesthetic addition to a bustling and congested Pelaez street.
Aside from providing shelter to people and venue for their activities, buildings must connect with the urban context just like a vital piece that completes a jigsaw puzzle.
Moreover, it must enhance or improve the image of the place where it stands.
