EASTERN VISAYAS STATE UNIVERSITY

COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE AND ALLIED DISCIPLINE

SUSTAINABLE AND DISASTER-RESILIENT HOUSE

IN A FLOOD-PRONE AREA

A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment

of the requirements for the degree of
Bachelor of Science in Architecture

BERNARD ANGELO C. FULIGA

BSAR-5A

July 2021
 EASTERN VISAYAS STATE UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE AND ALLIED DISCIPLINE
Architecture Department

This architectural thesis entitled, (SUSTAINABLE AND DISASTER-RESILIENT

HOUSE IN A FLOOD-PRONE AREA), prepared and submitted by (Bernard
Angelo C. Fuliga) of BSAR-5A, has been accepted and obtained a grade of
_____________.

Archt. CHARLOTTE B. MONTAÑO, OFS, MArch

Class and Thesis Adviser

Ar. DEANNA O. BAÑEZ, MPRM

Dean, College of Architecture
.and Allied Discipline
 Abstract

In this thesis, the essence of dwelling condition and living of a specific family

within their home was discussed. The factors affecting the quality of their

occupying, the orientation of their previous house, and the house site concerns as

general was stated. Specified problems focused are, the poor orientation of rooms,

elements surround site and its effect, concerns and problems with the neighboring

house, and the flooding mainly for the general level concern. General objective of

the study, was to make a new house plan and design that will fit to the site location

and condition and also includes landscape and treatment for the entire site as well.

Gathered researches and data was applied to meet the general objectives. The

appropriate solutions for the objectives was presented based on the data and

includes observation of the family and the researcher. The research design used

for this qualitative research was descriptive type to help reached needed data for

this thesis and in able to gather data, literature search for the solutions was also

used. On some aspect observation checklist was used in gathering data to some

specific concern. On the aim of this thesis, the objectives are used and applied

through the data and researches gathered.

A new house plan and design for the family was provided for their more

comfortable, safe, and essential living. Modern and tropical house features was

used for the interior and exterior of the house design and strategy. This includes

some design elements and strategies. Combination of tropical design and

contemporary architecture was applied on the exterior design while for the interior,

minimalist architecture and some design elements was used. Considering the
resiliency and comfortability of the house, disaster resilient features and open plan

layout or passive architecture was also included in the plan. Structure form or

shape of the proposed house plan was one of the most feature considered in

making it more stable against typhoon or natural disasters. To make it more

disaster resilient some strategical elements was also applied. In the landscape

some strategies applied for their specific functions specially for the flood control

and external noise reduction. For safety features, security systems installed on

both interior and exterior of the house. On the general essence and highlight of

this thesis, aesthetic, resiliency, and sustainability was the general objectives.

Aesthetic for the modern, contemporary and minimalist architecture style, resiliency

for tropical and disaster resilient features, and sustainability for salvaged and locally

available landscape materials and the rain water collector for the site landscape

and plants.
 Acknowledgement

On this thesis, first I want to thank our Thesis Adviser, Archt. Charlotte B.

Montaño, OFS, March for helping and assisting us on making this thesis. With our

adviser, it was a courage for me and gives me hope, strength, and gratitude while

working of this. Though there are ups and down for me on making this and meets

some struggles and hardships while working, our adviser understands me and us

on helping this thesis done. Our thesis adviser understands my faults and

limitations of knowledge because there are lots of errors I’ve made while making

this. I am very thankful To Ma’am Montaño for understanding me on behalf of my

faults. Without the guide of Ma’am Montaño, I am not able to understand and make

this thesis possibly done.

Next, I would like also to thank my Mom on understanding me on not staying

in our home instead stay here in my boarding house in Tacloban while studying and

making this thesis due to internet connection and family relation problem. Though

I miss my family and a fear of the pandemic she still allowed me to be departed on

them on making my studies. They are my inspiration on fulfilling my studies and I

promised to myself to help them lift in behalf of our poverty.

Special acknowledgement for my Aunt on helping me financially on my

studies since from the start of my architecture student journey. She is one of my

motivation and inspiration on studying. She is my courage on making this thesis

possibly done because it will be shameful for me and my family if I will not able to

do this and to graduate. My aunt supported me in many ways and also advises me

to study well in able to help my younger siblings finish their studies. Generally,
my aunt given great impact on making this thesis as she served as a challenge and

motivation on my studies and fulfilling my goals and dreams.

I would like also to thank my younger sister on assisting me and guiding me

while working on this thesis. She is one of the ways for me on understanding how

the thesis conducted and what are the ways or systems on making it. I was able to

understand more briefly on what are the purposes or objectives of chapters of the

thesis through her guidance. Since she was graduated and already done thesis in

her previous college, I was able to ask her on some portion on what should I do on

specific chapters. My younger sisters also motivated me that I can finished this

thesis so that I will be able to graduate so that we can help our parents.

Lastly, I would like to thank my boarding house mates on assisting me also

on making this thesis. Since some of them are already done thesis during their

college, I was able to ask them on some portion of my thesis that I can’t understand.

Through them, they also served as a mentor for me. They understand me

sometimes, why I am not able to join them eating during meals since I am working

with my thesis. With the help and motivation of them I was able to work and do this

thesis. They served as my siblings since I am departed to my family while studying

and working my thesis.

With Gratitude and gladness, I would like to thank them all on making this

thesis possible. This is a heart whelming and memorable experience while making

this acknowledgement. Most of all I would like to thank our Heavenly Creator on

giving me hope and strength on working and motivating me for my study and this

thesis. All glory belongs to Him.

 Table of Contents

Page

Chapter 1 Introduction ………………………………………………………….1

1.1 Problem Statement ……………………………………………………2

1.2 Objectives of the Study ………………………………………………..4

1.3 Significance of the Study ……………………………………………..5

1.4 Significance of the Project ……………………………………………5

1.5 Scope of Delimitation of the Project …………………………………6

Chapter 2 Review of Related Literature ……………………………………...6

Passive Design Features for Energy-Efficient Residential .…………………………6

Buildings in Tropical Climates (Tamina Ahsan,2009)

The Analysis of Sound Absorbing Performances for Composite ……………….…7

Plates Containing Recycled Textile Wastes

(Iuliana,Ovidiu,Radu,2016)

Optimal House Elevation for ReducingFlood-related ……………….…..8

Losses (Siyuan Xian,Ning Lin,Howard Kunreuther,2017)

Multicase Study Comparison of Different Types ……………………………..8

of Flood-resilient Buildings (Elevated, Amphibious and Floating)

at the Vistula River in Warsaw Poland (Lukasz Piatek and

Magdalena Wojnowska-Heciak,2020)

A Practical Approach to Development of housing on …………………………….9

Floodplain Land in the UK (Simon Mclean and Paul Watson,2009)

Sustainable Urban Community Development: A case study ……………….….9

of flood design in Snoqualmie, WA, USA (Pio-Hao Huang,2014)

Chapter 3 Methodology ………………………………………………………..10

3.1 Research Design ………………………………………………….10

3.2 Research Instruments and Data Collection Method …………….10

3.3 Methods of Data Utilization for Design …………………………...11

Chapter 4 Presentation of Data ………………………………………………13

A. Tropical Design Strategies …………………………………………...13

B. Disaster-resilient Design ……………………………………………..20

C. External Noise Acoustical Treatment………………………….…….24

 D. Landscape and Sustainable Design ………………………………..31

E. Appropriate Property Security System ……………………………..34

F. Modern Filipino Architectural Style Features……………………....38

Chapter 5 Site Analysis and Development Plan ……………………………41

Site Description …………………………………………………………….41

Sun Path and Wind Direction ……………………………………………...43

View ………………………………………………………………………….46

Research Data and Application …………………………………………….49

Proposed Site Development Plan ………………………………………....52

Chapter 6 Building Design Development …………………………………….55

Design Philosophy ……………………………………………………………55

Design Objectives ……………………………………………………………..57

Architectural Programming and Analysis …………………………………...59

Proposed Building Design ……………………….……………………………67

Chapter 7 Summary of Research Data Application …………………………88

to the Project Design

Bibliography ……………………………………………………….……90

Appendices ……………………………………………………………96

Curriculum Vitae ………………………………………...…………….98

List of Figures:

Figure 7.4 Google map image of the Fuliga family house site. [Source: Google

Maps]

Figure 8.1 Rain garden photo. [Source:

https://www.hgtv.com/outdoors/gardens/garden-styles-and-types/rain-

gardendesign-ideas-pictures ]

Figure 8.2 Permeable surface photo.

[Source:https://www.susdrain.org/delivering-suds/using-

suds/sudscomponents/source-control/pervious-surfaces/pervious-surfaces-

overview.html:]

Figure 8.3 Use of stone as landscape element.

[Source:https://www.ofdesign.net/interior-design/landscaping-with-stone-21ideas-

and-use-in-garden-decorations-3028]

Figure 8.4 Hedge photo sample. [Source: https://earthsky.org/earth/cleaner-

roadair-quality-plant-hedges/]
 Chapter 1

Introduction

As a Filipino people who have so many beliefs considering in making a

house plan and design. On other way a lot of scientific and natural phenomenon

must be the main consideration in planning. As of being in a tropical country, every

year Philippines experiences massive exposure on sunlight during summer and

heavy rains during typhoons. Intense heat comes from the sun has a big impact

on the coolness of room and affect the comfort of occupants within households.

During heavy rains or typhoons, floods or landslide are the worst scenario that

would be expected during its devastation. In this case, the house plan in the region

must considerate on that aspects. An effective house plan must be used to be

applied for those who aimed to have a comfort living within the region. So passive

or tropical and disaster resilient house plan would be the most feature for the house

proposal within the country.

In this thesis proposal, the solution was applied for the house of specific

family (Fuliga Family) who experienced problem causes of being in a tropical

country. The residential site of the family would be located in Brgy. Picas

Tanauan, Leyte. Being in the Region VIII, Leyte as a province which would be

located in middle part of the Philippines or in global level located on equator line

which intensely expose to sun and also prone in typhoons every year as the

country is on eastern part and facing Pacific Ocean. So, in this proposal the

solution for the improvement of the Fuliga family house was presented.

1
 The proposal features and titled; Sustainable and Disaster-Resilient

House in a Flood-Prone Area. In this proposal, sustainable, tropical, and resilient

elements was applied in the Fuliga family house which made it compatible for its

site location and its ecology. The site topography and immediate/natural

surrounding was also considered. An aesthetic but sustainable and resilient

elements was applied to aid the topographical concerns.

1.1 Problem Statement

Having a poor architectural plan causes to have congestion regarding the

order and function of the house of Fuliga family. The bad orientation of some

rooms affects their daily life. As the bedrooms are not on the proper location it is

seemed to be not reliable to have rest during daytime especially when it is sunny.

The Fuliga family cannot have a good rest on the specific rooms which causes

them to have lack of energy which is essential on daily basis. The worst thing is

that the family are not able to maximize the function of bedrooms as what it is

designed for.

Together with bedrooms researcher observed that the kitchen itself was

also oriented improperly. As the kitchen is better to be expose on sunlight the

researcher’s house kitchen is not seem to meet that feature. The kitchen was

located on the part which sunlight has no good penetration. Bacteria in the kitchen

will be a active if it is not exposed to sunlight. Due to poor kitchen orientation it will

also cause to decrease the nutrition that must be gained by the family.
2
 Having lot of trees in the yard is sound good but sometime it is also

destructive. Due to lot of trees around the researcher’s yard the house has a less

access to sunlight. The house cannot gain energy and natural lighting comes from

the sun because of bunch of trees around the yard. Sunlight may be very

beneficial to the family if they are not experiencing the trouble causes by the trees.

Light comes from the sun may serve them to have a good natural light which will

also serve for the family to save electricity. Because of poor access to natural light

during daytime the family has no choice but to light on their fluorescent bulb. It is

causing them to spend more on electricity because of the said problem.

On the other side, having neighbors are good but for the Fuliga family, their

neighborhood seems to be a big challenge for them. There are times that the

noises from nearby houses is uncontrolled especially when there’s some occasion.

Sometimes it causes for the Fuliga Family not to have a good sleep at night.

Another thing is that, the said family has no privacy in regards with the noise

coming from their house. Having neighbors is good but in Fuliga family case the

researcher stated that in some situation neighborhood set as a distraction to them.

Noise comes from neighbor is uncontrolled especially when there is occasion. With

this matter, the family has no privacy in regards with the noise control as the

neighbor house is just close next to the researcher’s house. Sometimes it causes

the family not to have a good sleep at night because of the noise comes from their

neighbor.

In general, the most problem that Fuliga family meet yearly is the flash flood

and it is the worst problem of all. The flood causes by heavy rain is a destruction
3
to the family. It results to shut down their normal routine as the flood is a destructive

matter. Before the flood comes, the family has no choice but to put up appliances

to the part which it will not be reached by flood. After elevating the necessary

things inside the house, the family are mandated to evacuate to the evacuation

center. It is hard to visit the house during flood because of flood current and also

the rain as well. After the flood, mud is the next problem. The flood will result to

massive mud inside and out of the house. Due to strong current sometimes there

are portion of house that get wreck because of flood. As most of the house on the

researcher’s community are made of light materials. On the other hand, the flood

is also a threat on the health of the family as there are times that they are exposed

to the flood.

1.2 Objectives of the Study

This study aimed to developed a new house design that will fit to the site

location and condition. An effective house plan was presented and implemented

to meet the house standards and needs or requirements of Fuliga family.

Generally, as the sun and wind orientation, climate, land topography and natural

elements (existing trees and river) was the main considerations.

Specifically, to aid in the design process the study had searched for:

1. Applicable tropical design strategies

2. Disaster resilient design features

4
3. Acoustical treatment for external noise reduction

4. Landscape plans and sustainable design for yards

5. Security system appropriate to the property

6. Modern Filipino architectural style features

1.3 Significance of the Study

This study is essential and useful as a reading material for some related

studies. This would provide information about sustainable and resilient houses

in flood-prone areas. This would be beneficial aside for the Fuliga family but also

for some families who are planning to build houses in a flood - prone areas.

1.4 Significance of the Project

This project seeks to address the issues that was being experienced by

the Fuliga family in the said type of location. If this would be successful, this

would help the Fuliga family such as they can have a sustainable and disaster-

resilient house, a house with external noise reduction and their security as they

dwell in their house. This would also be a big help in any future uses. This study

would give idea for the other researchers with similar concept.

5
1.5 Scope and Delimitation of the Study

This study determined some adaptive ways for a sustainable dwelling in the

said type of location. The scope of this study was delimited on the house, its

yard, immediate surrounding spaces of the Fuliga family. The respondents of

this study were the heads of the family who can answer correctly the possible

inquires of the researcher.

Chapter 2

Review of Related Literature

Passive Design Features for Energy-Efficient Residential Buildings in

Tropical Climates (Tamina Ahsan,2009)

The study aimed at identifying passive design features through extensive

literature study that can be incorporated in residential buildings to make them

energy efficient. The study also aimed at identifying changes in the design process

that can affect energy efficiency in residential buildings.

The findings from this study indicated that doubling the thickness of external

walls on east and west, use of hollow clay tiles instead of weathering course for

roofs and use of appropriate horizontal overhung ratios for all four orientations was

able to reduce the cooling load of the case study building by 64% and hence

reduced the total energy use of the building by 26%.

6
 With the aid of this study, the researcher adopted some of the

features/techniques indicated in the study to meet and solve the researcher’s

objective to made the Fuliga family house efficient and cool. Those features were

in a relation with building form and orientation, room orientation and arrangement,

landscaping, external wall, thermal insulation, building materials, roof, and

windows.

The Analysis of Sound Absorbing Performances for Composite Plates

Containing Recycled Textile Wastes

(Iuliana,Ovidiu,Radu,2016)

In this article authors obtained some experimental results about

soundproofing of three types of stratified composite materials (recovered

textile+cork,recovered textile+polystyrene, and recovered textile+ polyethylene)

made of: plate of short fiber fabricated from recovered textile which joins with

aluminum foil or extruded polystyrene.

As of the experiment, it was concluded that by the use of some

configurations of the mentioned materials can be obtained layered composite

materials which have an increased effect of noise absorption from noise sources

in certain frequency ranges, being of interest, useful and necessary for the

soundproofing of the noise sources.

7
 The stated materials are made from recyclable textiles which have low

manufacturing cost. The researcher specified the use of the materials that helped

reduce cost and for effective soundproofing as well.

Optimal House Elevation for Reducing Flood-related Losses

(Siyuan Xian,Ning Lin,Howard Kunreuther,2017)

This study recommended that the houses in flood zones can be elevated at

least 1 foot above the base flood elevation (BFE). The study suggested of elevating

house (house base) in able to prevent floodwater in entering the house.

This study helped the researcher to acquired some research idea in able to

solve the issues within this study.

Multicase Study Comparison of Different Types of Flood-resilient Buildings

(Elevated, Amphibious and Floating) at the Vistula River in Warsaw Poland

(Lukasz Piatek and Magdalena Wojnowska-Heciak,2020)

In this research the resilience was being understood as the

technological aspects like novel inventive building components, materials or

solutions that considers interaction between flood risk analysis to generate maps

and time series of expected annual damages. There was also some direct

comparison and assessment of the different types of flood-resilient buildings such

as elevated, amphibious and floating.

8
 In this study the researcher was able to know more ideas or learning about

resiliency. It had considered the building components, materials, and more ideas

about flood risk concerns.

A Practical Approach to Development of housing on Floodplain Land in the

UK (Simon Mclean and Paul Watson,2009)

This paper proposed a methodology for the assessment of flood risk based

upon the government’s guideline. However, the authors accepted that should be

the assessment deem a level of flood risk which was unacceptable to insurers

when related to traditionally constructed dwellings, then developers might need to

consider less conditional traditional, but ultimately more flood-resistant

technologies. The authors were able to investigate two types of construction form

which are currently practically employed in high flood risk areas, but which are

significantly different to the normal construction form used in the United Kingdom.

Through this study, the researcher had known idea of keeping or giving

importance to traditional but flood resistant technology of housing.

Sustainable Urban Community Development: A case study of flood design

in Snoqualmie, WA, USA (Pio-Hao Huang,2014)

This thesis explored effective ways to manage flooding impact from design

perspective. Through comprehensive analysis and diverse flood management

research, this thesis proposed flood-proofing designs and strategies for

9
Snoqualmie. This also proposed sustainable and flood-resilient development

methods. Two main methods are presented: restoring floodplain habitats and

constructing detention pounds or bio-swales. Another proposal of this was also

the comprehensive flood management design after analyzing historic maps,

zoning maps, flood hazard data, and hydrological data. It also forecasts future

potential development areas by considering the surrounding ecosystem.

In this study the researcher learned ideas of how will be flood prevented or

minimizes of entering within the property. Some techniques were not just be for

the structure but also for the whole site as well.

Chapter 3

Methodology

3.1 Research Design

The research design for this qualitative research was descriptive type

which was the tool to understand the topic of this study, which was a sustainable

dwelling for the Fuliga family and its modern approach of design. The said

research design was essential in knowing the appropriate details and data in

conducting study and solution for the concerns and needs of the family.

10
3.2 Research Instruments and Data Collection Method

The literature search method used to gather data on tropical design

strategies, disaster-resilient design features, acoustical treatment for external

noise reduction, landscape plans and sustainable design, security system

appropriate to the property, and modern Filipino architectural style features.

Reference from the internet and printed materials was also used as research

instruments for literature search. The observation method with the use of

observation checklist was also used to gather data on acoustical treatment for

external noise reduction.

3.3 Methods of Data Utilization for Design

Data to Be Collected Methods of Data Utilization for

Design

1.

Tropical design strategies Design strategies will be applied both

in the exterior and interior part of the
house.

11
2.

Disaster resilient design The design features will be applied on

features making the structure storm and flood
resilient. Fenestration of doors and
windows, proper orientation of rooms,
structure form, and specification of
materials will be the focus of design
strategy.

3.

Acoustical treatment for Noise control strategy will be applied

external noise reduction both on the structure and the
landscape design of the project.

4.

Landscape plans and Sustainable and disaster resilient

sustainable design landscape will be applied on the
specific yard of the project site which
will not only beneficial for aesthetic but
for some other feature.

5.

Security system appropriate to Applying security features on the

the property perimeter of the site will be
strategically applied.

12
6.

Modern Filipino architectural The architectural style or features will

style features be applied on both internal and
external part of the house.

Chapter 4

PRESENTATION OF DATA

This chapter presented the data of the specific objectives that would be applied for

the renovation of the Fuliga family residential dwelling. Presentation of data was

done through literature search for the; tropical design strategies, disasterresilient

design features, landscape and sustainable design, appropriate security system,

and modern Filipino architectural style features. The observation method for the

external noise acoustical treatment was used through observation checklist.

Gathered data are presented for the projected solution to the improvement of

Fuliga family house.

A. Tropical Design Strategies

In July 15, 2019 according to statement of www.lamudi.com.ph a real state

platform, in the Philippines the temperature can reach 42.2 degrees Celsius so the

traditional housing which was made with concrete/plywood will no longer enough.

The word “tropical” often regard to traditional nipa or bahay kubo, arguably it is the

13
simplest and purest example of tropical architecture design. Its material will not

able to withstand or durable against extreme weather like typhoons-and specially

to fire that also one to be considered in terms of housing. A tropical house can be

a traditional like the nipa hut, modern or even cutting-edge. Nonetheless, homes

with tropical house design have some common functional elements that can be

applied:

• Light-colored exteriors - The heat that we experience within our shelter

generally comes from the sunlight. Exterior portion of the house are the

direct catcher of heat comes from the sun. Since the color that ends on

lighter spectrum causes the solar heat to deflect or bounce away it would

be the most effective solution to meet the specified objective. Light or pale

colors for the exterior wall application is a good element to reduce the heat

and promote more comfortability for the occupants.

14
 Figure 1.1 Tropical exterior design photo

Amazing Tropical House Design. www.redhouses.wordpress.com

https://redhouses.wordpress.com/2015/07/07/amazing-tropical-housedesign/

• External shading - One of the distinctive features for the tropical house

design is the shading elements. External shading, sunshades, and

overhangs was applied to the external portion of the house. For the

miscellaneous elements, such as plants /trees was also used for shading.

Figure 1.2 Tropical house external shading image

10 Key Questions About External Shading. www.constructionspecifier.com

https://www.constructionspecifier.com/10-key-questions-about-exterior shading/

15
 • Insulated building envelopes – To have a good insulation of heat, heat

insulating materials for the exterior portion of the house is good.

Lowthermal materials such as clay roof tiles can reduce heat gain so it

means that it can be cool faster and lessen the need for the appliances or

such as the air conditioners.

Figure 1.3 Building envelope illustration

Contractor’s Field Guide to The Building Envelope. www.echotape.com

https://www.echotape.com/blog/contractors-field-guide-building-envelope/

• Open plan layout – This is one of the characters of tropical designed

house. The lesser walls a house have natural ventilation assures and better

16
 communication in terms of interactions. Having too many openings like

window would be the reason of access of heat into the house. The

openings should be positioned which achieved optimal airflow.

Figure 1.4 Open plan layout photo

Open Plan Layout for Modern Homes. www.home-designing.com

http://www.home-designing.com/2013/12/open-plan-layouts-for-modernhomes

• Optimal ventilation – The strategic placing of openings and partitions of

house interior which allows air to move throughout with right temperature

and velocity.

17
 Figure 1.5 Optimal ventilation sample

Bioclimatic Design. http://www.croftandassociates.com

http://www.croftandassociates.com/croft-and-associates-

architecture/bioclimaticdesign

• Easy ventilation control – Tropical architectural house essence can be

determined by how could the natural ventilation maintained throughout the

changing wind direction in yearly basis. For example, if the wind is coming

from the northeast, its momentum can be increased simply by facing

window on the opposite side or in the southwest part.

18
Figure 1.6 Easy ventilation control illustration

Natural Ventilation in Built Environment. www.link.springer.com

https://link.springer.com/referenceworkentry/10.1007%2F978-1-4614-

5828- 9_488

• Green (or Green-inspired) surroundings – This is the most associated

feature of tropical architectural design, green inspired surroundings. An

effective landscape and orientation of trees and greenery will not just serve

for aesthetic but also for comfort and stability.

19
Figure 1.7 Green (or Green-inspired) surroundings home photo.

An Insight into Elements of Tropical Architecture. www.thehousedesignhub.com

https://thehousedesignhub.com/what-tropical-architecture-entails/

B. Disaster-resilient Design

According to Lean Alfred Santos (Nov. 29, 2013), Philippines is one of the

vulnerable countries in terms of natural disaster like floods, earthquakes and

typhoons. A prominent architect in the Philippines argued that with or without

disasters we have to consider disaster resiliency in shelter construction. “I think

even without disasters, we have to be prepared in terms of our structures. It is high

time that whenever we design or someone wants to build a structure, we should

always consider disaster resiliency strategies,” Rey Gabitan, a senior official with

20
the United Architects of the Philippines. In the article, Santos stated that in house

construction Rey Gabitan suggested strategies to be consider for disaster

resiliency:

• Four-sided slope roof – A four-sided slope roof can lessen pressure of

wind and can decrease structural destruction from time to time. Canopies

or eaves would be better reduced or better to be avoided. It can make the

entire house more prone to the strong pressure of wind during typhoons.

Figure 2.1 Four-sided slope roof home photo

Roof Types: All Roof Styles Explained. www.restorbuilders.com

https://restorbuilders.com/roof-types/

• Storm shutters, installation – Windows in Philippines are mostly made

with cheap glass that cannot withstand 200 km/h winds, so it is easily

21
 breaks and makes those within the house vulnerable. It can be easily fixed

by the use of storm shutters.

Figure 2.2 Window with storm shutter

Choosing Hurricane Shutters for Your Home. www.storm-solutions.net

https://www.storm-solutions.net/blog/choosing-hurricane-shutters-for-yourhome

• Louver-type window frame – With the louver type window frame as a

covering for the glass windows can lessen the wind force or pressure.

• Right materials – Homes should also build with the resiliency against

earthquake. Using a load bearing design will be good as it is adaptable to

the ground movement. Gabitan echoed a concept just as an earth bags or

22
 a regular sack, filled with sand, soil or gravel. He cautioned that whatever

materials will be use if not applied or used well including the symmetry and

balance the whole concept will crash down.

According to statement the main disasters that affect humans in tropical regions

are hurricanes or tropical storms. However, many of nations also prone to

earthquakes, tsunamis and other natural phenomenon. In able to resist and stand

against natural disasters the house must built well, strong and robust. To increase

integrity of home’s structural capabilities these are some of the strategies that can

be applied:

• Roof design – Roof is the most vulnerable part of house during typhoons

so there are several aspects to be consider. For example, hip roofs will be

more resistant to strong wind than gable roofs, because of its form. A flat

or concrete roof will be ideal but it may have some thermal and

sustainability issues in tropical regions.

• Water storage – After a natural disaster if not prepared potable water is

one of the crucial needs to be acquired. The main water supply can

become contaminated after natural disaster specially flood. Storing potable

water in all time is a bright idea. During typhoons or storms the electrical

supply will be interrupted and may extended for a long period of time.

Installing of large water tank that is connected to plumbing system is a wise

strategy in preparedness against natural disasters.

23
 • Safe or panic room – During planning stage it may be a wise idea to

designate a room that will serve as a safe/panic room. This room will have

more structural integrity and aspect that will serve as a safe haven for a

family during disaster. Walls, roofing and foundations of this room can be

designed and construct to withstand strong winds and earthquake. This

may include of reinforcing concrete blocks in interior and exterior part of the

room.

Figure 2.3 Safe or panic room sample photo

Panic Room. www.security- structures.com

https://www.securitystructures.com/etem/2/Rifugi_di_sicurezza/88/STAN

ZE_DI_SICUREZZA/

C. External Noise Acoustical Treatment

Noise-related Data Observed in the Site:

1. The Fuliga family often experience external noise during daytime and

bedtime.

24
 2. There is no alternative treatment applied to the Fuliga family house and

yard to reduce external noise coming from the neighbor.

Figure 3.1 Fuliga family house noise concern within the site.

3. The neighbor’s house is approximately, 2.5 meters away from the Fuliga

family house.

25
 Figure 3.2 Fuliga family house

(Left side is the Fuliga family house the other one is the neighboring)

4. There are openings which cause external noise to penetrate the Fuliga

family house, and these openings are; unfinished wall on the right side

(wide opening facing neighbor’s house) and wide window in the house

facade.

Figure 3.3 Fuliga family house wide opening

facing neighbor’s house.

(Wide opening facing neighbor’s house)

26
 (Fuliga family house facade with wide window)

5. The Fuliga family house was not made with materials that can transmit

sound. Main building materials used for construction are hollow blocks,

coco lumber and bamboo weave, strips and bars.

6. There are lots of occupants in the neighbor’s house; in the present there

are 6 occupants.

7. Other source of noise which also need to be considered are the intimidating

sound comes from rice field equipment such as trailer, power tiller or hand

tractor and rice field tractor which passes on the frontage part of the Fuliga

family house during farming season.

Figure 3.4 Public access of rice field

machinery.

27
 8. In the present there are no natural elements that help to block the noise

comes from the neighbor of the family.

According to a passage sound reducing walls, windows, and doors can used to

block or lessen the external noise comes from their sources. It will be hard and

costly to retrofit into existing structure so they should be considered during design

stage. Below are some strategies for external sound proofing:

• Sound-attenuating external walls – If a wall is facing the noise source it should

be heavily constructed and if possible, without doors and windows so that noise

can’t penetrate. If necessary, doors should be installed with seals around its

opening and windows should ideally be non-opening, using noise reducing

laminated panes.

Here are some strategies that can be applied to improve acoustic performance of

framed wall:

▪ Make use of staggered stud framed construction.

▪ Include effective sound absorbing materials into the ceiling

construction.

▪ Make use of acoustic rated wall construction technique.

28
Sound-attenuating external windows and doors

Windows

▪ Windows in walls that must be sound proofed should

preferably non opening, since airstream carry sound. Options

for sound proofing windows:

▪ Thicker glass means greater mass which will work better for

lower frequency sound.

Quality laminated glass will give significant sound reduction as long as it is not

opened.

Figure 3.5 Laminated glass

High quality laminated glass. www.chinanorthglass.en.made-in-china.com

https://chinanorthglass.en.made-in-china.com/product/MKuJamxdVtRb/China-

High-Quality-Laminated-Glass-with-Color-PVB.html

29
 ▪ Installation of insulating glass units (IGUs) which can reduce the noise

transmission or penetration

Figure 3.6 Insulating glass units (IGUs) illustration Insulating Glass

Units. www.gw-news.eu/glossary https://www.gw-

news.eu/glossary/glossary-insulating-glass-units-igus

▪ Fitting additional glazing to window which is effective way of preventing

window being opened.

Sound proofing through landscape and site treatment

According to a statement, landscaping can help reduce noise that comes from its

external sources. Noise reducing landscape can also provide privacy specially for

those who are in urban areas.

30
Building of a wall or fence made by wood, stone or bricks. Materials must be

applied according to property size and distance from neighbor.

▪ Hedge – a natural visually pleasing buffer between owner and neighbor’s

house.

Figure 3.7 Using hedge for noise proofing photo Plant

hedges.www.earthsky.org.

https://earthsky.org/earth/cleaner-road-air-quality-plant-hedges/

D. Landscape and Sustainable Design

According to a journal of Lauren Dunec Hoang a landscape designer, garden

design change depends on the materials and the process of its installation.

31
Combination of changes applied to a garden can add of significant impacts. Here

are some strategies that can be add to a sustainable landscape:

• Stormwater management – A rain garden or bioswale can reduce runoff of

rainwater. They can slow down the water movement and can clean water. A rain

barrels can store water from roof runoff in a storage which can be used for the

garden.

Figure 4.1 Rain garden photo

Forney, J. M. Amazing Rain Garden Design Ideas.www.hgtv.com.

https://www.hgtv.com/outdoors/gardens/garden-styles-and-types/rain-

gardendesign-ideas-pictures

32
Permeable surface – By adding more permeable surfaces the rain water can be

keep and can be reduced runoff. The use of small stone, gravel or granite can be

alternative way to be used for permeability of surface.

Figure 4.2 Permeable surface

Pervious Surfaces Overview. www.susdrain.org.

https://www.susdrain.org/delivering-suds/using-suds/suds-components/source-

control/pervious-surfaces/pervious-surfaces-overview.html

• Locally sourced materials – Availability of the landscape elements may

find locally and doesn’t need to purchase from far sources.

33
 • Salvaged hardscape materials – Using salvaged hardscape or recycled

materials like fine wood timber, rock or brick for the landscape is good

option. It will be creative using salvaged hardscape materials as it will not

just used for aesthetic but also preserve and reused it for other purpose.

• Maintenance – Landscape or garden is not just about having with or

without fertilizer but it is all about how it was applied or made. Planting with

proper spacing can shade the ground. Plants that are planted tightly can

be more prone to disease.

E. Appropriate Property Security System

According to a researcher & writer team a home that consist of security system

such as motion sensor, glass break detectors, door and window sensors, yard

signs and window stickers, smoke detectors, and carbon monoxide detectors can

keep the family safe against variety of threats. These are the security systems

that would be considered for the household security.

• Motion sensors – This is essential part of home for security system. They

have variety of functions: turning on the indoor and outdoor lightings,

activation of cameras, alarms setting off, and more.

34
Figure 5.1 Motion sensor photo

Tross, K. (2021). The Beginner’s Guide to Motion Sensors. www.safewise.com.

https://www.safewise.com/resources/motion-sensor-guide/

• Indoor and outdoor cameras – Security cameras are one of the major

parts of house security system. Cameras can capture and record all the

activities inside and out of the house premises. Using smartphone or tablet,

home owners can monitor entire household through security cameras.

35
 Figure 5.2 Security camera

Tuohy. J. P. (2021) Types of Home Security Cameras. www.usnews.com

https://www.usnews.com/360-reviews/security-cameras/types-of-

securitycameras

• Glass break detectors – A handy sensors that detects the frequency

shattering sound that glass makes and which followed by or set off an

alarm. These will be useful on alerting the occupants if someone attempts

on entering the house by breaking glass doors por windows.

36
Figure 5.3 Glass break detector

Leavitt. A. (2018). How Do Glass Break Detectors Work? getsafeandsound.com

https://getsafeandsound.com/2018/07/glass-break-detectors/

• Door and windows sensors – These can detect door and window when

attached to opens. It uses two sensors: one is on the door or window and

other is on the frame. If the door closed, then circuit breaks, it triggering

intruder through alarm or text alert.

37
Figure 5.4 Door and windows sensors photo

Beaudrie. D. (2020) What You Need to Know about Door and Window Sensors.

www.thespruce.com https://www.thespruce.com/about-door-and-window-

sensors-1835114

F. Modern Filipino Architectural Style Features

According to a passage modern Filipino architectural styles has often

referred to contemporary architecture which is popular in current time and

associated with minimalist architecture.

38
Contemporary Architecture

According to an article of Monte Christo which was published on March 24,

2017, here are some features of Philippine contemporary architecture.

• Materials - Classic materials used are wood, stone and brick. It’s also

includes cast iron, structural steel and reinforced concrete.

• Post and lintel – building system were vertical elements held the horizontal

elements having large part of spaces between them.

• Cantilever – a stiff or firm structural element, such as the beam or a plate,

attached or fixed at an end to a support which it is stick out or projected.

• Arch – Curve structure which spans a space and may not support a load

above it.

• Dome – an architectural element having features of hollow upper half of

sphere.

• Solar panels – A photovoltaic solar cells which convert solar power to

electricity.

Minimalist Architecture

According to a passage interior minimalist design is similar to modern approach of

design. It is characterized with simplicity, clean lines and monochromatic palette

which colors are used as an accent.

• Clean lines – Furnitures and accessories focus on function and viability.

Focuses on simplicity and purity of shape and form.

39
 • Monochromatic colour palette – Colour scheme which consist of white,

beiges and greys. Colour palette comprises both soft and light natural

shades.

Figure 6.1 Minimalist interior

Nafie. C. (2020). What Is a Monochromatic Color Scheme? www.thespruce.com

https://www.thespruce.com/what-is-a-monochromatic-color-scheme-1973826

40
 Chapter 5

Site Analysis and Development Plan

Site Description

In a rural area there are lot of factors that also needs effective treatment in

terms of site efficiency. Like urban, the rural areas are also prone to the treat of

natural phenomenon such as the typhoon, earthquakes, fires and etc. As it is

naturally happening globally, the rural areas are also prone to its destruction.

Threat of such natural disasters in rural areas will be same or even much worse

as of those who are in urban place or vice versa. As the Fuliga family house

location is in rural part of Brgy. Picas Tanauan, Leyte which is located near and

along with the Guinarona River the site location is more prone and much

complicated to the effect of typhoon and heavy rains. Guinarona river serves as

an irrigation source for rice fields for a lot of barangays not only for Tanauan but

also for other town barangays. The Guinarona river is essential for the community

of many barangays and especially for Brgy. Picas but during typhoons and heavy

rain it becomes devastative.

The Fuliga family house location is located along and near the river. And the

flashflood is one of the threats for the barangay in the yearly basis. Going to the

site description, the Fuliga family house location is in the interior portion of Brgy.

Picas. Their house was built far from the main road and from it you have to walk

first before arriving to their house site. The site topography and ecology describing

its rural aesthetic and features. The site is composed of mostly natural existing

41
trees and other are planted for agricultural purposes and essentiality such as

coconut, banana, and other fruit bearing trees. The site topography and location

probably not ideal for residential dwellings. During rainy seasons the site becomes

saturated by rainwater and becomes muddy.

Figure 7.4 Google map image of the Fuliga family house site. Showing it distance
away Guinarona River, site features, and ecology.

(Source: Google Maps)

Even though the site consisting lot of trees, the family’s house is still expose

to the excessive heat of sunlight. During sunny season the house is highly expose

to the heat comes from the sun causing the rooms become hot and not ideal for

resting and comfortability. Since there’s only few trees in the east part of the house

site, that portion receives more heat comes from the sunlight during mid-day. In

42
the afternoon the heat becomes more warmer since there are a lot of trees in the

west part that serves as sun shading.

The land topography of the site is sloping causing the site being saturated

by rainwater during heavy rains. Since the family’s house is located near along

the river the effect of its site topographic attribute during heavy and flashflood is

even much worst. The house site contains excessive mud after flashfloods. In

rainy seasons the site yard becomes swampy as it is sloping from the riverbank.

The level of the lot topography of site is much lower than the level of the river bank

causing the site to seems like a catch basin during rainy season.

Sun Path and Wind Direction

This sun path and wind direction illustration was based on the astronomical

pattern of sun and wind. As given, sun rises from the east and sets to the west.

The Fuliga family house location experiences massive exposure to sunlight during

mid-day but lacks access to sunlight during noontime causes the house to have a

bad natural lighting. Orientation of the rooms makes the sun path not ideal for its

locations. For the illustration, kitchen was oriented on the northwest part. On the

northwest portion of the house there are lots of trees which covers the kitchen to

have access to the sunlight. During noon time the kitchen became darker than of

the mid-day. The existing trees causes unnecessary shading for the family’s

house.

43
Figure 7.1 Actual floor plan of Fuliga family house.

Figure 7.1 Sun path illustration of the

Fuliga family house.

44
 Figure 7.2 Heat wave illustration. (Illustrating the sunlight and heat path penetration
to the Fuliga family’s house.)

Wind direction was based on the metrological weather pattern and observation

of the family. During summer the family experiences cool wind comes from the

west or southwest or Habagat and strong wind during winter or typhoon season

which comes from the north or northeast or Amihan.

Figure 7.3 Wind direction illustration of the Fuliga family house.

45
Views

Frontage of the property.

On the frontage of the family’s house is a wide space which also

contains some trees and over the property line will be the public access for

public and rice field machinery.

Figure 7.4 Wide space in the house

frontage.

Figure 7.5 Front of the property. Public and

rice field machinery access. Showing site

topography, from the river bank the lot

is sloping through the house location. Level of

house ground line is much lower that the river
bank level.

Figure 7.6 Present Fuliga family house.

Facade view, built with no elevation that

can prevent entering flood to its interior

during heavy rains.

46
Left side of the property

Left side of the property is filled of variety of trees which provide shading for

the house on left part.

Figure 7.7 Left side of the property

contains variety of trees.

Rear of the property

Rear part of the property also contains of trees which cause to block sunlight

to lighten the kitchen. If you are in the rear part and move for a distance away from

the house all you can see are the trees which covers the house, most of it are

banana trees. Trees blocks the sunlight to penetrate within the kitchen and causes

it to be dark during noon time.

Figure 7.8 Rear view of the house.

47
 Figure 7.9 Image of the rear of

the house covered with trees

causes shading to the kitchen

and make it dark during noon

time.

Right side of the property

On the right side of the property is the neighboring house.

Figure 7.10 Image of the

Fuliga family’s house with the

neighboring house next to

it.

48
Research Data Application

Rain Garden

Rain garden can help to treat polluted rainwater runoff. It is a

designed landscape that can reduce flow rate of rainwater and also serve

as a filtration of pollutant came from ahead surface.

Figure 8.1 Rain garden photo.

Forney, J. M. Amazing Rain Garden Design Ideas.www.hgtv.com.

https://www.hgtv.com/outdoors/gardens/garden-

stylesandtypes/raingardendesignideas-pictures

Permeable Surface

In the site this can help rainwater runoff be filtered and penetrate to the

soil smoothly. This is mostly made in pervious concrete, porous asphalt,

paving stones and interlocking pavers.

49
Figure 8.2 Permeable surface photo

Salvaged hardscape materials

Salvaged materials are materials which just found or get around or

near the site. In the landscape, the used of stones was applied and it is

an inventive idea.

Figure 8.3 Use of stone as landscape element

50
 Landscaping with a Stone. www.ofdesign.net.

https://www.ofdesign.net/interiordesign/landscaping-with-stone-21-ideas-

andusein-garden-decorations-3028

Hedge

Hedge is a fence or a boundary which made by growing bushes or

shrubs. Within the site this may use for security, air filtration, and noise

proofing as well.

Figure 8.4 Hedge photo sample

Plant hedges.(n.d)www.earthsky.org.

https://earthsky.org/earth/cleaner-road-air-quality-plant-hedges/

51
Proposed Site Development Plan

Figure 8.5 Proposed site developments plan.

52
Callouts

Rain garden

This was designed with aesthetic and naturalistic, within the site it is used to

saturate and filtrate rain water runoff.

Figure 8.6 Proposed rain garden photo

Hedge

This was used to blocked the noise comes from the neighboring house. A

fence of shrubs that not used only for sound proofing but may also serve for

security and

air filtration.

Figure 8.7

Proposed hedge

image.

53
Bamboo row

Bamboo trees also contributes to the aesthetic value of the site in the

other way it can also be used for sound proofing and air filtration.

Figure 8.8 Proposed bamboo row plantation for sound proofing and aesthetic.

Permeable Surface

With the permeable surface the rainwater runoff will pass smoothly and be
filtered.

Figure 8.9 Proposed permeable surface.

54
 Chapter 6

Building Design Development

Design Philosophy

In able to cope up in a region which is tropical, shelters must be built

considering its ecology. Philippines as a tropical country, experiences two

seasons, sunny and rainy season. In the country it is normal to experience

extensive heat during summer and massive rain and floods during times of

typhoon. Due to the effect of those seasons, house planning must be considering

its effect. It will be a worse living in a shelter which cannot stand or able to

harmonize or cope up with such seasons. Being in the tropical country, there must

be a wise plan of the shelter in able to stand to the changing weather. The design

itself of the house will have a great impact to its stability considering its site ecology,

topography, weather, and condition.

Since we are only occupants, we are the one to have an effective solution

for comfort living within unexpected disasters of our mother earth. It is like a

scenario of coping up and adjusting ourselves to whatever situation we may face

in life. As the world experiences seasons and natural disasters, an adaptive house

plan is a must. Consideration of house shape and form, building elements and

materials, orientation of rooms, and effective site development planning must be

applied in able to have a stable efficient and comfort living within the region.

55
 There is a quotation saying “no man is an island” in the same way of its

meaning, a shelter cannot stand to its location if it is built unadaptable to its

environment. In the philosophical aspect of architecture, the form or shape of the

structure has a great impact to its stability within its location. To illustrate, we build

buildings lighter as it is going higher. In able to adapt to environment structure

must be build fit to its site ecology. The form or shape of structure will determine

its quality and adaptability within the site.

A structure with a wide straight wall is more vulnerable to strong winds.

Such wall will receive more force of wind as of its appearance. As we know the

form of structure is one of the responsible for its stability and adaptability in its

location. An adaptable building shape will have a massive impact on stability. In

this thesis the shape of the structure was based on its ecological condition

considering the seasons. The structure was not containing a wide straight wall to

the portion which strong winds experiences. Bended exterior walls are an effective

strategy to resist against strong winds.

In this thesis, the structure was planned containing of bended walls on the

portion which is exposed to the strong winds. With such strategy, it will be able to

stand more firm to strong winds. It has ability to deflect more force of wind than of

smooth linear wide wall. Having exterior bended walls, the structure will have more

assurance standing against strong winds. Considering the quality of exterior walls,

it was also built thicker in able for it to deflect heat comes from the sun and stand

against strong winds during typhoon. The exterior walls built with the thickness of

.20 meters.
56
 In scientific and philosophical view and observation domical shape structure

stand strong against exterior factors. Domical shape structures, was the inspiration

for the proposed Fuliga family house exterior wall shape and form. It is an adaptive

strategy in able the structure to adapt to the threatening effect of the seasons.

Together with other design considerations and strategies the structure was

planned with its philosophical and scientific concerns.

Design Objectives

As of the site location and ecology stated in the previous statements, the

design objectives focused on the aesthetic and stability of the structure. Due to

the site condition and exterior factors the design objective is to have an efficient

living for the family. This includes the stability of the structure, effective house

planning in general aspects and sustainable or adaptable landscape.

Stability of the structure is about how it will adapt or have harmony to its

location. In the Fuliga family site location they experience the effects of seasons.

They experience extensive heat during summer and massive flood during heavy

rain. In this matter, the researcher sees that the form or shape of structure will

have an effective impact to its stability standing against such changing seasons.

In this objective, it was also considered the quality of the exterior walls applied.

The exterior walls made thicker and the quality of the concrete was also

considered. In behalf of the structure form and shape, there are strategies that

was also applied to make the structure more disaster resilient. These are the use

57
of storm shutter for the windows and using of concrete gutter for the roofing and

discharge or collection of rainwater.

In the planning of the house, it considered the general aspects of the

requirements of the project. This contains the orientation of rooms, natural

ventilation, heat insulation, sound proofing, and accessibility. Considering the

interior and exterior factors in the planning the project meets the needed prospects.

Lastly for the landscape and the connection of the structure to the site, the

landscape plan focused on the condition of the site on the stated factors.

Generally, as flood is one of the major problems it was the main consideration.

The most effective solution is to elevate the site higher than the riverbank level, so

this is also mean that the house base level will get higher than the riverbank level.

In the previous statement, the site is affected of flood because the site was much

lower than the riverbank level. Through elevating the site and the structure as well

the house is much more effective in preventing flood affecting the entire premises

of the Fuliga family. For the landscape some strategies were applied, these are

the use of rain garden and permeable surface for effective rainwater runoff, and

use of hedge and bamboo row for sound proofing.

58
Architectural Programming and Analysis

Table # 1. Activity and User Identification

People Projected
Rooms/Area Activity/User
Major Activities Involved/User No. of
Required Characteristics/Conditions
Category Users
Recreation Father & 7 users Living Area Natural ventilation consideration
Mother
Family Area Need for view and natural
3 Sons lighting

2 Daughters

Need sun shading

Need for view

Balcony
Resting Bedroom
• Master’s
Father & 2 users Bedroom Natural ventilation consideration
Mother • Bedroom
01,02 Effective heat insulation

3 and 2
3 Sons users
Living Area Sound proofing requirements
2 Daughters

7+ users
Natural ventilation consideration
Father &
Mother
7 users
3 Sons Need for view and natural
lighting
2 Daughters

Guest
Need sun shading
Balcony
Need for view

59
Working All family 2-3 Service Area Need proper water runoff
members users

Enough and workable space

consideration

Eating Father & 7+ users Dining Area Needs natural ventilation

Mother

3 Sons
Effective heat insulation
2 Daughters

Guest(s)
Natural lighting considerations

Sleeping Bedroom

Father & 2 users • Mater’s Needs natural ventilation

Mother Bedroom
• Bedroom
01
3 users • Bedroom Effective heat insulation
3 Sons 02
2 users • Guest
2 Daughters Room
1-3 users Natural lighting consideration
Guest(s)

Sanitary/Bathing T&B
• Common
All family 1 at a • Second Effective drainage system
members time Floor
T&B
1 at a
time
Cooking Anyone of 1-2 users Kitchen Accessibility and natural lighting
family consideration
members

60
 Table # 2. Building Areas/Spaces Program

Ground Floor
Major Spaces Space Description Planning Relationships
Entry Porch This space serves as the initiation or • Adjacent to
the main entrance of the family’s terrace and foyer
house. The space was derived with
dimension that will just fit to its purpose
and function.
Terrace Terrace was built which will serve for • Adjacent to entry
leisure activities, such as sitting, porch
hanging around and resting for the • Convenient
members of the family. adjacency to
foyer and living
area
Carport This space serves as the protection for • Adjacent to
the family’s vehicle. It was built service area,
adjacent to the immediate spaces to kitchen and
maintain the effectiveness and storage room
productiveness of its function.
Foyer Foyer will serve as the welcoming • Adjacent to entry
space before reaching living area. porch and living
This space will display aesthetic area
feature which will adopt minimalist
style of architecture.
Service Area This space will serve as the working • Adjacent to
area for some of cleaning activities carport, kitchen,
such as clothes and equipment and storage room
washing.
Living Area The space which most of leisure • Adjacent to foyer,
activities will take place and this will dining area,
also serve as the reception for the master’s
guest. In the living area most of the bedroom, guest
bonding and leisure moment of the room and
family will take place. common T&B
• Convenient
adjacency to
terrace
Dining Area Eating space for the family. This area • Adjacent to
mainly built adjacent to the kitchen as kitchen, living
they must be.

61
 area, and
common T&B
• Convenient
adjacency to
guest room
Kitchen A space which preparing, cooking, and • Adjacent to dining
serving of food will be take place. area, service
area, carport and
storage room
Master’s Bedroom Resting and sleeping room for the • Adjacent to living
family heads (father and mother). area
• Convenient
adjacency to
guest room.
Common T&B This space will serve for the comfort • Adjacent to dining
and sanitation of the entire occupants and living area
of the house. Mainly bathing, • Convenient
urination, and excretion takes place in adjacency to
this space. guest room
Guest Room The resting and sleeping space for • Adjacent to living
the guest(s). area.
• Convenient
adjacency to
common T&B,
master’s
bedroom, and
dining area.
Storage Room This is the room of storing equipment • Adjacent to
and other essential things. kitchen, service
area, and carport

Second Floor
Major Spaces Space Description Planning Relationships
Family Area This space also serves for leisure, • Adjacent to
relaxation and bonding of the family. bedroom 01 and
It will also serve as the access to 02, balcony, T&B,
other rooms. and panic room.
Bedroom 01 Resting and sleeping space for the 3 • Adjacent to family
sons. room

62
 • Convenient
adjacency to
bedroom 02,
balcony, T&B,
and panic room
Bedroom 02 Resting and sleeping space for the 2 • Adjacent to family
daughters. room
• Convenient
adjacency to
bedroom 02,
balcony, T&B,
and panic room
Balcony A space which the family can stand • Adjacent to family
by or hang out. This will also serve room
for the penetration of natural • Convenient
ventilation. adjacency to
bedroom 01 and
02
Panic Room This will serve for the protection of the • Adjacent to family
family or safe haven for them. During room
disasters this will be the hiding space • Convenient
for the family. adjacency to
bedroom 01 and
02 and T&B
T&B Comfort and sanitation space for the • Adjacent to family
occupants on the second floor. room
• Convenient
adjacency to
bedroom 01 and
02 and panic
room

Figure 9.1 Architectural Programming Legend:

63
Legend:

Legend:

Figure 9.2 Bubble and Circulatory Diagram: The Relationships of the Major
Space Categories and the Circulation Flow.

Bubble Diagram.

Macro

64
 Micro

Legend:

Ground floor

Legend:

Second floor

65
Figure 9.3 Circulatory Diagram

Legend:

66
Proposed Building Design

Figure 9.4 Floor Plans

67
68
Figure 9.5 Elevation Drawings

69
70
Figure 9.6 2 Sections Drawing

71
Figure 9.7 Exterior Perspective View

72
73
Figure 9.8 Interior Perspective Views

Combined dining and living area

74
Living area

Living area with kitchen view

75
Foyer

Master’s Bedroom

76
Master’s Bedroom

Guest Bedroom

77
Guest Bedroom

Family Area

Family area

78
Family Area

Bedroom 01

79
Bedroom 02

Figure 9.8 Lighting and Convenience Outlet Layouts

80
81
Figure 9.9 Lighting Design

82
Figure 9.10 Sanitary and Storm Drain Plan

Floor 01

83
Floor 02

Isometric Views

Floor 01

84
Floor 02

Figure 9.11 Roof Storm Drain Plan

85
Figure 9.12 Waterline Plans

Floor 01

Floor 02

Figure 9.13 Waterline Plans Isometric View

86
87
 Chapter 7

Summary of Research Data Application to the Project Design

The research data were applied to the design of the project in order to meet the

main objective of the study which is to develop a design for the improvement of

the Fuliga family’s house. Specifically, tropical design strategies were applied

both to the interior and exterior design and plan of the house. On the exterior,

using of pitched roof and tropical design features were used such us light-colored

exteriors, wide eaves, and green inspired surrounding. The disaster-resilient

design features the use of proper orientation of rooms, storm adaptive structure

form, concrete gutter for roofing, thicker exterior wall, and landscape strategies

and elements for rainwater effective runoff.

Acoustical treatment for external noise reduction includes the use of laminated

and insulated glass units for exterior soundproofing. To block the noise coming

from the neighbor’s house, hedges were used. For interior soundproofing, fabric

was specified. The landscape plan and sustainable design considered

minimizing water runoff for flood control.

The security system specified the used of strategies which is appropriate to the

interior and exterior part of the house. Security systems were located and

installed to monitor the interior and exterior spaces against any threat of intruder.

And lastly, for the modern Filipino architectural style, the use of contemporary

and minimalist architecture was applied. On the exterior house part

contemporary architecture features was used through the use of arches and

88
some building materials and in the interior part using of minimalist architecture

was featured.

89
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detectors/

Level.org.nz. (2018). Exterior building elements can be constructed to

limit the effects of exterior noise. Level.

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noise/controllingnoisethroughdesign-and-layout/noise-control-in-the-building-

envelope/

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housing on floodplain land in the UK. Springer Link.

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95
Appendices

Observation Checklist

Information to gather to help determine acoustical treatment for external

noise reduction

No. Observation checklist for Yes No Comments

gathering data.
1. Did the Fuliga family often experience ✓ The Fuliga family often
external noise during daytime or experience external noise
bedtime? If yes, during what time? during daytime and
bedtime.
2. In the present time, is there alternative ✓ There is no alternative
treatment applied to Fuliga family house treatment applied to the
or yard to reduce external noise coming Fuliga family house and
from their neighbor? yard to reduce external
noise coming from the
neighbor.
3. Is the neighboring house near to the ✓ The neighbor’s house is
Fuliga family house? approximately, 2.5
meters away from the
Fuliga family house.
4. Is there a wide access or openings ✓ There are openings
within Fuliga family house causing which cause external
external noise penetrate or enter to their noise to penetrate the
home? Fuliga family house, and
these openings are;
unfinished wall on the
right side (wide opening
facing neighbor’s house)
and wide window in the
house facade.

5. Is the present Fuliga family house made ✓ The Fuliga family house
with materials that can transmit external was not made with
noise? materials that can
transmit sound. Main
building materials used
for construction are

96
 hollow blocks, coco
lumber and bamboo
weave, strips and bars.

6. Are there many occupants living in the ✓ There are lots of

neighbor’s house that produce noise? occupants in the
neighbor’s house; in the
present there are 6
occupants.
7. Aside from noise coming from ✓ Other source of noise
neighbors’ human voice, are there types which also need to be
of external noise sources that also need considered are the
to be considered? intimidating sound comes
from rice field equipment
such as
trailer, power tiller or
hand tractor and rice field
tractor which passes on
the frontage part of the
Fuliga family house
during farming season.

8. Are there any natural elements that ✓ In the present there are
helps to block external noise such us no natural elements that
trees or plants? help to block the noise
comes from the neighbor
of the family.

97
 Curriculum Vitae

BERNARD ANGELO C. FULIGA

Zone 1. Brgy. Picas
Tanauan, Leyte Philippines
Email Address: [email protected]
PERSONAL INFORMATION
Birthdate : June 22, 1995
Birthplace : Brgy. Balayhangin Calauan, Laguna
Age : 26 years old
Sex : Male

Height : 5’7”
Nationality : Filipino
Civil Status : Single
Religion : Christian
EDUCATION BACKGROUND

COLLEGE: Bachelor of Science Major In Architecture

(2016-2021) Major in Architecture

Eastern Visayas State University – Main Campus

Tacloban City

HIGHSCHOOL: Tolosa National High School

(2008-2012) Tolosa, Leyte

ELEMENTARY: Picas Elementary School

(2002-2008) Brgy. Picas Tanauan, Leyte

98