THE open plan in architecture has had its dose of admirers and critics. All throughout architectural history, the open plan has been employed by architects, especially the so-called “modernists,” to achieve efficient flow of activities and flexibility of the building plan through the use of very minimal to no wall partitions inside. Less compartmentalization of space meant more channels for natural light and ventilation to get through the building. Yet, there are those who flash the “thumbs down” because of its insensitivity to user privacy and the possibility of clutter and functional vagueness.
But it was the open plan that handed Cebuano architect Charisse Seniedo-Osmeña a residential project, which was to be located in a posh subdivision overlooking the sea in the northern part of this metropolis.
“My clients initially asked three architects to make a design concept (for their residence) and they paid for each of our services. The commission was given to me because I was the only one who achieved the ‘open plan’ that they wanted,” said the architect. “There were not too many changes from the initial design concept until the final design.”
With the house located adjacent to the main road with a panoramic view of the sea, it was a given for the architect to make sure the great scene outside is accessible from most of the spaces and rooms in the house. Apart from orienting the main spaces towards the side with the Mactan Channel in full sight, the architect incorporated a roof deck, which serves as an outdoor extension of the residence’s social space. The area is just perfect for outdoor parties with an unobstructed view of the blue waters of the channel (yes, no photobombing roofs of neighboring houses).
On this space one would also see aluminum louvers that would rotate 180 degrees on vertical position using the awning mechanism. This is a design feature installed on only two sides of the roof deck, serving as a screen not just against direct sunlight but also from outsiders’ view in case the owners needed some privacy. This is one of the “modern” design touches on this three-storey residence.
Tropical modern is how one would describe this house and architect Seniedo-Osmeña feels a warm affinity to this style. Having worked before in an architectural firm in Singapore which had a similar design discipline, working on this project became a great experience for the architect.
Asked whether there was something “Filipino” or “Cebuano” in her design, she cannot instantly point out a feature. She said that her clients were from abroad and were very keen on having everything “new and modern.” “The ‘dirty kitchen’ perhaps?” the architect made a quick reply.
The open plan in itself speaks of something “Filipino” in the design. It reflects the single-room, open plan of early traditional houses in the country, just like the bahay kubo. The highly functional interior of the bahay kubo was used as a venue for various family activities during the day and was converted into sleeping quarters at night. This underscores the value of utility and the multi-faceted nature of every space in a house or building. The design of the house also radiates a character of the architect, who puts prime consideration on functionality and ease of movement in every space that she creates.