SPARK Online Magazine

16/05/2024

Natutunaw ka na rin ba sa init?! 🫠 Chill ka muna and check SPARK’s new post!

We all have our own creative solutions to stay comfy in the scorching heat of the Philippines. Passive cooling techniques allow designers to build cooler environments without breaking a sweat 💦

Find out what your favorite heat-beater says about you! And don’t forget to tag your friends when you spot descriptions that sound just like them 👀🌬️

Content: Sophia Roman
Pub: Jeremy Driz, Asa Barrios, Brianna Congjuico

13/04/2024

In the hustle and bustle of urban life, cars have long been held as symbols of status and . Being able to travel long distances quickly and on your own terms, without having to rely on unpredictable public transportation schedules, is what makes private transportation so appealing. Yet, behind this facade of glamor lies a narrative of urban planning dominated by the sprawl of road infrastructure, the suffocation of green spaces, and an ominous disregard for climate concerns. As we navigate the intricacies of contemporary urban design, it becomes imperative to reassess our relationship with cars and the profound impact they exert on our cities.

Content: Sophia Roman
Pub: Asa Barrios, Brianna Congjuico, & Kei Casabar

31/03/2024

The Right Man is a Woman: Pioneering Filipino Women in Architecture

Over time, women have been making their marks in the world, showing everyone that they are just as capable as men. Before this year’s International Women’s Month celebration ends, let us get to know the architects who have been shaping society, not only here in the Philippines, but also abroad.

Pub: William Cunanan
Content: Ivan Gallevo

09/03/2024

During the 1970s, the term “Edifice Complex” came about; an obsession with having large buildings as a show of prosperity, advancement, and power. It was primarily used to describe how former First Lady Imelda Marcos spearheaded many large-scale construction projects. Brutalism was often used; a style characterized to be massive, rigid, rough-looking, and heavy. With Imelda Marocs’ "go-to" architect, Leandro Locsin, they went on to build structures in line with the Marcoses' "Bagong Lipunan" vision; an idealized society without poverty - a promising idea that came with a lot of complications.

"What the First Lady wants, the First Lady gets", is a working mantra for her, so they say.

Content: Sophia Roman & Ivan Gallevo
Pub: Asa Barrios, Brianna Congjuico, Keisha Casabar

Works Cited:

AECOM. “2016 Rio Olympic and Paralympic Games | AECOM.” AECOM, 2016, aecom.com/projects/2016-rio-olympic-paralympic-
games/. Accessed 29 Feb. 2024.

Afinidad-Bernardo, D. R. M. (n.d.). Edifice complex: 31 years of Amnesia. Philstar.com. https://newslab.philstar.com/31-years-of-amnesia/building-spree

CNBC. “How the Olympics Became so Expensive for Host Cities.” YouTube, 21 June 2021, www.youtube.com/watch?v=GYnZkFVXvts. Accessed 29 Feb. 2024.

Griffin, J. (2016, April 26). Change beckons for Vila Autódromo, the favela that got in the Rio Olympics’ way. The Guardian; The Guardian. https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2016/apr/26/rio-de-janeiro-favela-change-vila-autodromo-favela-olympics

Guzman, N. de. (1970, January 1). The mysterious curse of the manila film center. Esquiremag.ph. https://www.esquiremag.ph/long-reads/features/manila-film-center-haunted-a1729-20191107-lfrm2

Mawis, Sara. “Understanding the “Build, Build, Build” Program.” INQUIRER.net, INQUIRER.net, July 2018, business.inquirer.net/254682/understanding-build-build-build-program. Accessed 29 Feb. 2024.
Published by The CAUP Journal The official online publication account of the College of Architecture and Urban Planning (CAUP) Student Council View all posts by The CAUP Journal, Journal, P. by T. C., Journal, T. C., The official online publication account of the College of Architecture and Urban Planning (CAUP) Student Council View all posts by The CAUP Journal, & View all posts by The CAUP Journal. (2022, July 5). Just a facade: Unveiling the truth behind the “edifice complex.” THE CAUP JOURNAL. https://caupscofficial.wordpress.com/2022/07/05/just-a-facade-unveiling-the-truth-behind-the-edifice-complex/

Quisomorio, Ellson. “Goodbye “Build, Build, Build”; P1.196-T Sought for PBBM’s “Build, Better, More” Infrastructure Program.” Manila Bulletin, 2022, mb.com.ph/2022/08/23/goodbye-build-build-build-p1-196-t-sought-for-build-better-more-infrastructure-program/. Accessed 29 Feb. 2024.

Visit Qatar. “Lusail Stadium | Iconic, Inspirational and Exquisite.” Visitqatar.com, 2022, visitqatar.com/intl-en/things-to-do/adventures/other-sports-and-activities/lusail-stadium. Accessed 29 Feb. 2024.

Vox. “How Qatar Built Stadiums with Forced Labor.” YouTube, 1 Dec. 2022, www.youtube.com/watch?v=C-0CebFpF_s. Accessed 29 Feb. 2024.

19/11/2023

Taylor Swift, a multi-talented singer-songwriter, global superstar, producer, director, actress, and a doctor, is considered to be one of the biggest musicians in the industry, not only of this generation. From dominating record charts with multiple #1 hit singles and albums to winning numerous awards, we can arguably still add another title for her: one of the greatest architects in the music industry. She makes not just the best bridges for songs but an entire discography as well.

Alongside her music releases, Taylor also produced music videos (MVs) that didn’t just streamline the story of her songs but also utilized several set locations of varying architectural styles. She may not be your usual architect who draws up the plans, but she for sure can still make a whole building shimmer by featuring it in her videos. With that, let’s take a look at some of the notable architecture featured in her music videos and dive deeper into their distinct architectural style.

REFERENCES:

Scottish Rite Cathedral. (2018, October 24). Indiana Architecture Database. https://www.architectureindiana.com/?p=46153

Mozo, J. (2023, April 25). The story behind Castle Gwynn, home to the TN Renaissance Festival. Tennessee Home and Farm. https://tnhomeandfarm.com/tn-living/castle-gwynn/

James, R. D. (2019, September 24). Tennessee Tower. SAH ARCHIPEDIA. https://sah-archipedia.org/buildings/TN-01-037-0084

Wikiwand - William R. Snodgrass Tennessee Tower. (n.d.). Wikiwand. https://www.wikiwand.com/en/William_R._Snodgrass_Tennessee_Tower

Badalamenti, A. (2020, May 4). An Architect’s Treasure: Oheka Castle designed by Delano & Alrich - The Kulka Group. The Kulka Group.
https://www.thekulkagroup.com/an-architects-treasure-oheka-castle-designed-by-delano-alrich

LA Conservancy. (2023, July 14). Millennium Biltmore Hotel Los Angeles - LA Conservancy. https://www.laconservancy.org/learn/historic-places/millennium-biltmore-hotel-los-angeles/

Admin, W. (2017, December 18). Western Landmark: The Millennium Biltmore Hotel - Western Art & Architecture. Western Art & Architecture. https://westernartandarchitecture.com/departments/western-landmark/western-landmark-millennium-biltmore-hotel

Bradsonemanband. (n.d.). Reddit - Dive into anything. https://www.reddit.com/r/TaylorSwift/comments/bgk6xu/taylors_music_video_filming_locations_via_google/

Content: Eiron Recto
Pub: Francis Caton & Niña Umerez

11/11/2023

SC puts an end to a 2-decade debacle over who gets to authorize architectural documents, licensed architects win over the role as sole signatories

Last November 9 of 2023, the Supreme Court of the Philippines ruled that only licensed and registered architects are authorized to prepare, sign, and seal architectural documents. The news comes in favor of architects as they have waited for almost two decades for this case to be resolved.

Source:
ABOGADO. (2023, November 9). SC: Only licensed architects, not civil engineers, may prepare, sign, and seal architectural. Retrieved from. documentshttps://abogado.com.ph/sc-only-licensed-architects-not-civil-engineers-may-prepare-sign-and-seal-architectural-documents/

Content: Nadine Javier
Pub: William Cunanan

04/11/2023

In the ever-evolving world of architecture, contemporary architects have increasingly turned their gaze towards history as a means to redefine the relationship between old and new. These architectural concepts, while not new, have gained renewed attention among architects and designers. It has given rise to a fascinating trend in which disparate historical styles and forms are boldly combined and compared. This movement, although good as it prioritizes the restoration and reuse of existing architectural wonders, borderlines the world of pastiche— a gray area between authenticity and kitsch. Here, we explore why a historicism approach to architecture, renovation and reusing of older structures is not just a trend but a necessary step toward a more sustainable and meaningful architectural future.

Content: Nadine Javier
Pub: Shelly Luarca & Jaylord Abucot

21/10/2023

Architecture has always been one of the fields that stewards the improvement of the built environment by means of physical translations. It is through the human eyes that we develop images of these physical and visual forms in the environment. Architecture is also experiential that should be viewed beyond the optical level in order to maximize the potential experience it has to offer. But more than what meets the eye are other sensory and cultural factors which can affect the perception of a person in a space. And these factors serve as a driving force that stimulates the feelings and emotions of humans on the intangible aspects of architecture.

The creation of feelings, memories, and even meaning that a person can associate to a certain building is theorized by Norberg-Schulz on the ‘Phenomenology of Architecture’- making it experiential. Through this, a connection between the built environment and its psychology is made beyond mere physical boundaries. In this seemingly big world where different people experience spaces distinctly, the collective form of these factors shape the spirit of a place. And us Filipinos build and experience space from our collective spirit of place and oneness, creating multitude of ways in perceiving architecture through minds and hearts.

Let’s take a look at some of the spaces in our immediate environment that let us experience oneness with the built environment:

Content by: Eiron Recto
Pub by: Francis Caton & Niña Umerez

17/05/2023

Imagine a world where being an architectural student is just a bit easier. It’s one button press away. Want to press it?

Pub by Pie Bagnes

11/05/2023

Summer in the Philippines can be extremely hot and humid, making it challenging to stay comfortable at home. However, with a few simple changes, you can transform your home into a cool and relaxing haven. Let’s explore some decorating tips that can help you beat the heat!

Pub by Francis Caton and Zeus Cordez

24/03/2023

Unfortunately, life as an Arki student is stressful so... let's take a break! Let's reset our brains with this simple and light-hearted activity that involves treasure. Question is... do you know what treasure is in store for you?

08/03/2023

Hey there, fellow architecture students! Do you ever wonder what your design choices say about you? Well, wonder no more! In this fun and interactive post, you get to choose between two design options and find out what your preferences reveal about your architectural personality.

Kaya naman kung tulad ka naming puyat at pagod dahil sa sandamakmak na plates, it’s time to give your creative minds a break and find out kung anong mas angat, anong mas sikat sa mga bagay na hinding hindi mawawala sa bokabularyo ng mga arki students.

Written by Mika Molina
Pub by Francis Caton and Zeus Cordez

02/12/2022

The thought of 3D printing your next home sounds more like an interesting experiment than a practical possibility, but did you know it is possible to do so? Thanks to the significant advancements in technology and printing methods over the past years, architects have already started taking advantage of the endless possibilities 3D printing has to offer.
Here, we look at some of the benefits of 3D printing and how this new technology allows architects and designers to go beyond the limits of traditional design and building techniques.

Written by Mika Molina
Pub by Angel Manzano

21/10/2022

As the world develops over the decades, the barrier between man and nature continues to grow. Current urban planning practices have contributed to our alienation from nature and perception of it as something apart from ourselves. Cities are often associated with images of crowds of faceless individuals sprawling in the streets, never-ending traffic jams, dense forests of skyscrapers shrouded in smog, and cramped domestic spaces. This elevates the importance of bringing nature into our built environment through biophilic design.

Biophilic design is an innovative way of creating an environment for us to live, work, and learn. It strives to bring buildings and nature closer together, seamlessly connecting them through the use of natural light, plants, natural materials, textures, and patterns. It also fosters a connection between us and the natural world. By incorporating nature into our lived spaces, we create healthy and productive habitats that improve our quality of life.
Let’s take a look at some of the buildings that incorporate biophilic design in their architecture.

Written by Mika Molina
Pub by Angel Manzano

12/10/2022

Set in a visionary country in Africa, Wakanda presents the future of the built world from an alternate view – one that embraces modernity but is grounded on culture and heritage. Wakanda’s design takes in a fusion of traditional and futuristic ideas while bearing the importance of designing for the people and not for the sole sake of technology in the present time.
This might also be a nice opportunity to rewatch as a new Black Panther film is set to release next month! And while doing so, maybe try to revisit how the architecture of Wakanda preserves its past amidst the advancements, its environment with urban development, and how it challenges our notions of future designs.

Written by Kylla Natanauan
Pub by Pie Bagnes

30/05/2022

GUESS THE CONCEPT
Wrong Answers Only!

Architects express their genius and creativity through unique concepts. These may be conceptual ideas translated into physical forms or mimetic designs derived from actual objects. The myriad of possibilities and ideas in architecture could lead to the most bizarre of forms but also intelligent and highly functional designs. As the saying goes, “don’t judge a book by its cover,” some architectural structures might seem peculiar at a sight, but carry a goal and significant meaning within.

With that, try to guess the concepts of these odd yet purposeful buildings and scroll down to find the correct answers!

Pub by Seth Umipig

09/05/2022

This May 9th, let us all be a symbol of hope by voting for what is right. Each and every vote matters for our own nation.

It is our responsibility as Filipinos to elect those who will truly serve the nation with integrity, credibility, and humility.

Reflect on our country’s past, the present, and what could happen in the future.

To all Filipinos out there, stay safe, courageous, and be vigilant this election day!

14/04/2022

Virtual Visita Iglesia
Featuring some of the country’s architectural marvels: Churches

Visita Iglesia is a common tradition among Catholic Filipinos during the Holy Week, when people travel in or out of town to go to seven churches as a form of pilgrimage. Iconic and historical structures with remarkable architectural character are usually visited, for they serve not only as places of worship, but marks of the Filipino faith and spirituality.

This virtual tour will take you to different regions in our country featuring seven churches that are reflections of our culture and values, remnants of our history, and symbols of the modern Filipino community.

Written by Kylla Natanauan
Pub by Seth Umipig

25/03/2022

Before the Women's Month ends, let's take the time to acknowledge women’s journey towards well-deserved recognition in society. Especially in a male-dominated field like architecture, women have been subjected to gender discrimination— their contributions in the field not recognized enough and their opportunities limited. It wasn't until the 1960s that feminism in architecture began being incorporated at a large scale.

Contrary to popular belief, feminism aims for inclusivity, which recognizes women’s role in the society, as well as the differences of people across cultures. Instead, the term has developed into an insult with the generalization of feminists as “overly aggressive, man-hating women (...) who see sexism at every turn." This stereotype carries over in architecture. Architects recognize that there is a need for a change in spatial design and in practice, yet they do not want it to be associated with the “F word." You may be wondering, who are pushing the boundaries of feminism in architecture then? There's hardly any coverage on this in mainstream media and this is just unacceptable. We deserve our place in the design field and it is worth knowing designs created by us and for us.

Written by Maya Torres
Pub by Juli Paderes

10/03/2022

We see these materials so often that they might seem bland and ordinary already. What we might not recognize, however, are their unique and lasting properties that stirred a variety of uses in construction, ornamentation, and in the everyday functional products we use.

Take a closer look at the interesting features of these local materials and discover what’s behind the mundane!

Written by Kylla Natanauan
Pub by Seth Umipig

28/02/2022

Plates or Play?

There might be no need to choose. Playing video games is a popular way for students to cope with stress. But did you know that Architecture, or design in general, plays a significant role in storytelling and gaming experience? Layouts, varying elevations, and choice of materials and mechanisms could help players in navigation and in reinforcing their gameplay, while visual design, themes, and colors craft unique atmospheres that take you to different virtual worlds.

The fusion of creativity and pragmatism in video games brings room for leisure and appreciation for design.

Written by Kylla Natanauan and Shekinah Suelto
Pub by Seth Umipig

25/02/2022

22/02/2022

Architectural design and its revision process could be long and grueling. Believe it or not, mistakes could still find their way in the construction phase no matter how good a design is.

Architects also have their “lutang” moments, which lead to confusing but interesting designs. Lack of sleep, I guess? All jokes aside, it's important to understand the root cause to prevent mistakes in the final phase. You never know, you could encounter these types of dilemma in the future.

Here are 10 Architecture Fails that will make you go 😭🤦🏼‍♀️. Read to find out more behind these not-too-uncommon mistakes and other tips.

Written by Maya Torres
Pub by Juli Paderes