CHAPTER 2

THEORETICAL BACKGROUND
2.1. Review of Related Literature

This chapter addresses the related studies and literature on the topic to provide the
readers with a better understanding of the proposal. Will explore the basic concepts of organic
architecture and how it might be used to address Carmen's specific problems. The following
literary sources are arranged into categories based on their roles and their purpose in the
research.

2.1.1. Environmental Compatibility

Recent research into tropical climate sustainable building focuses heavily on strategies for
passive building design as the best method of coping with factors such as high heat, high
humidity, and heavy rainfall. The designs tend to focus more on natural ventilation and passive
cooling systems to a certain extent rather than relying on energy-intensive systems such as air
conditioning. A study by Fulgar Architects in the Philippines asserts that focusing on passive
cooling and rainwater harvesting manages the frequency of the tropical downpour quite well​ .
Incorporation of the natural ventilation techniques, such as cross-ventilation, and proper shading
in building designs should enhance energy efficiency in tropical regions. As for local materials
usage, typical elements such as bamboo, nipa, and volcanic stone have the property of
adapting to humidity; this helps build a harmonic boundary between buildings and the
environment.
Heavy monsoon rains across the Philippines have led to sustainable building practices. Designs
often feature large roof overhangs, water channels, and green roofs to help lower heat island
effects while managing rainwater. These kinds of structures have a tendency to use oral
traditions, thus making the construction meaningful besides being functional. This construction
with indigenous knowledge of older generations ensures they are coming up with structures that
would both be functional and culturally relevant. The natural materials offer durability, given the
exasperating tropical climate, and aesthetic continuity with the local landscape.
Along with passive cooling and the use of sustainable materials, the architectural buildings in
the tropics have become a model of providing modern needs with sensitivity towards the
environment. This highlights the point of how buildings have to adapt to local climatic conditions
through means of passivity central to addressing the current ongoing challenges brought about
by climate change and contributing toward the creation of a more sustainable built environment
in tropical areas.
Another fundamental aspect of sustainable architecture is adapting to the unique topographical
conditions of the tropics. In mountainous or coastal settings in the Philippines, architects are
beginning to consider that the natural landscape determines the form and structure of a building.
Buildings in steep topography like Carmen have to be designed to harmoniously blend with the
landscape and often use stilt foundations or terracing to minimize land disruption.
These adaptive topographies, coupled with the preservation of the natural environment,
safeguard structures from landslide or flood hazards intrinsic to many nations characterized by
uneven terrain, often in tropical tropes. For example, stilt-based or terraced foundation buildings
reduce their footprint on the ground, thereby decreasing erosion occurrences. Such designs
also afford the possibility of elevating buildings for unobstructed views and natural ventilation, a
significant plus in hot and humid climates​ .
Contrary to this, topographical adaptation of buildings normally involves the design of the
building so that it harmonizes with the built environment rather than competing with it. In
Carmen, which has an array of hills and valleys, organic architecture could mean the design of
buildings that flow along the natural contours of the land. It consequently reduces the effects of
the building on the environment while harmonizing the former with its surroundings.
This approach is increasingly being used in tropical architecture where it will be considered by
architects in the conceptualization of designs that are not only useful but also aesthetically
responsive to their surroundings.
Organic architecture of the tropical regions like the Philippines often innovate upon the rich
cultural heritage found in the regions. As these aspects of culture are viewed with the climatic
conditions, designs not only become functional but symbolic. Traditional bahay kubo (nipa hut)
serve as a model for lightweight structure with an airy feel that suits the hot, humid climate.
This type of design allows free air passage in the building while it protects it from rain and
sunlight.
In addition, it introduces local cultural values within architecture, which also assists in giving a
feeling of place and belonging. Organic architecture commonly uses local materials, such as
bamboo, which not only serves the cause of sustainability but also has cultural value. Such
materials are selected because of their ability to reflect vernacular traditions of the area but still
ensure modern comfort and functionality.
Also, aesthetic choices in such designs are closely related to environmental conditions and the
social and cultural contexts of the community.
Organic architecture can play a powerful role in Carmen by reinforcing a sense of belonging
because the natural landscape and local ecosystems form a powerful factor that gives a cultural
identity to this region. Architects can design buildings with sensitivity to the environment, as well
as to local culture, which shall create spaces that resonate deeply with the people who are
supposed to occupy them.
The balance of cultural and environmental considerations is one vital aspect in the development
of architecture that makes it sustainable but meaningful as well.

2.1.2. Community Enhancement

The capacity to greatly improve the quality of life for its residents through encouraging
community building. By incorporating communal areas, outdoor access, and culturally significant
architectural elements, organic architecture enhances both the quality of life for individuals and
the bonds between communities. The spaces we live in significantly affect our emotional well-
being, and architecture has the power to enhance our experience. Using components like
texture, color, light, and spatial arrangement, design spaces that arouse good feelings, lessen
tension, and enhance mental health. These carefully planned areas foster sentiments of security,
creativity, and community, ultimately improving our general standard of living.
In his article "Community-Centered Design: Building Stronger Neighborhoods," Bohl (2020)
highlights the significance it is to create environments that encourage social contact and
community involvement. Parks, gardens, and gathering places are examples of public spaces
that have organic architecture values and can use this to create a warm atmosphere that invites
neighbors to interact. According to Bohl's observations, well-planned public areas promote
social cohesiveness and improve the general quality of life by offering chances for neighborly
relations and community events. By doing this, It can embrace the rural setting's natural beauty
while fostering a thriving community that reflects the needs and values of its citizens.
In their study "Environmental Design: The Role of Nature in Urban Well-being," Kuo and
Sullivan (2021) indicates the significant impact that natural elements in the built environment
have on residents' well-being. The aim of the subdivision is to integrate organic architecture with
the natural landscape around them. Both inhabitants' physical and mental well-being can be
improved by Riverview Heights. Therefore, it can develop an active community that promotes
the well-being of its residents while appreciating the beauty of its rural setting by carefully
planning environments that respect nature. According to Room + Wild (2023), Javier
Senosiain’s work in organic architecture focuses on blending structures seamlessly into the
environment. His designs are inspired by nature's forms, using curved lines and natural
materials to harmonize with the landscape. By creating environments that are not just pragmatic
but also emotionally and environmentally sensitive, this strategy strengthens the bond between
residents and the environment and improves community well-being.
By integrating these concepts into the design of Riverview Heights, a vibrant harmonious
neighborhood that improves individual social interaction, health, and well-being can be
established. Riverview Heights can develop a clear understanding of community identity by
emphasizing organic architecture that blends in with the landscape and promotes social
interaction, which will ultimately enhance the quality of life for the residents.

2.1.3. Cultural Integration

One study, Cultural Identity in Subdivision Layouts, dated 2021, emphasizes the impact of
community-driven design on the layout of subdivisions; it argues that a sense of belonging
would be promoted by the inclusion of cultural symbols and local construction techniques. The
approach to Carmen emphasizes using materials such as bamboo and stone as well as the
traditional configuration of spaces in forging places that are apparently in accord with the
identity of the community. This strategy benefits cultural preservation but helps in the realization
of sustainable development practices because most of the materials are renewable and sourced
locally.
This research is aimed at showing that if the residents are involved in a design process, its final
product will materialize with the cultural identity. This will improve not only architectural quality
but also make the product created truly embody the spirit and values of the community. For
Carmen, it would perhaps mean creating communal areas with the inclusion of traditional
gathering spaces within larger designs, thus fostering social interaction and enhancing cultural
ties among residents.
The research also sheds light on the psychological benefits of culturally sensitive subdivision
design. It enhances the dignity of dwelling by residents in space that is culturally relevant to
them. This relationship to a place may significantly enhance the quality of life in a neighborhood,
making a place more cohesive and lively. For Carmen, these applications may lead to
environmentally sound developments that are also culturally rich; in turn, this will strengthen the
identity and resilience of the community.
As stated in the article, Integration of Local Culture in Contemporary Design (2022), it is quite
clearly discussed how cultural context is important to modern architectural practices. This
contextual framework puts it clear that architecture must illustrate how individuals interact with
their surroundings. This is something that can be achieved through the application of the local
materiality and the culturally significant spatial organizations that identify them. For Carmen,
subdivision designs should tell stories that go beyond functional issues and resonate with the
identity of the community. By integrating traditional patterns and motifs, or the regional
landscaping styles, into their designs, architects can create an environment that feels
intrinsically connected to the cultural lifeblood of the region. In its study, the article also
discusses how buildings that acknowledge and celebrate their cultural context can enhance a
resident's sense of belonging. It is particularly crucial when one thinks of Carmen, or other fast-
growing regions, that could translate into an influx of new residents that may gradually dilute
cultural identity. Local materials like indigenous stones and crafted wood are also integrated into
subdivision designs in a manner that tells a story that respects and honors the area's heritage.
Preserving cultural elements also allows innovation in the design and marrying tradition with
contemporary needs.
Besides, from the studies, it would be derided that subdivision designs present aesthetic
elements that can be used as a tool for cultural education and appreciation. Subdivisions can be
an educational tool for the people living there and visitors by showing local history and traditions
in images. This auspicious alignment of architecture with cultural narratives can enhance
community pride and make the design choices of subdivisions in Carmen not merely aesthetic,
but a source of cultural expression and continuity. The book Climate-Responsive Design
through Cultural Insights (2023) uncovers issues on how architecture can employ traditional
knowledge to develop climate-responsive designs. It holds that if the adaptive practices of
indigenous peoples toward the environment are understood, architects can design subdivisions
that are close to local cultural identity but complement climate challenges. More so, for Carmen,
this will be rather necessary to enhance comfort levels and sustainability of residential
environments.
Some of the traditional practices that were highlighted in the study involve the use of natural
ventilation, shade, and local materials in order to achieve comfort in tropical living. All these can
be adapted in modern designs for subdivisions to enhance environmental performance without
losing the cultural relevance. For example, the utilization of local bamboo for structural elements
not only reflects the cultural identity of the user but also helps deliver thermal comfort and
energy efficiency. What the study also shares is that climate-responsive designs can then
become a tool for cultural expression. Architects can enrich the area's cultural narrative by
designing spaces resonating with the community's heritage as they resolve environmental
problems. In Carmen, designing homes and public space which holds traditional aesthetics with
modern sustainability practices may then become the crucial aspect of success towards having
a strength against climate change through the observance of local culture.

2.1.4. Economic Considerations

It indicates that although organic design may have greater upfront expenditures, they are
frequently outweighed by long-term financial benefits like lower operating expenses, higher
property prices, and favorable market trends. Those involved in the use of organic architecture
in subdivision design must comprehend these financial aspects.
Echeverri and Echeverri are authors of ‘Economic Impacts of Sustainable Housing
Developments: An Analysis of Market Trends.’ (2021) conclude, ‘’that sustainable housing
developments have significant positive economic implications, including increased property
values, job creation, and local economic growth.’’ It offers insightful information to those
involved in projects such as Riverview Heights, emphasizing how sustainable architecture may
improve a community's economic viability in addition to its overall quality of life.
Through the use of sustainable materials, energy-efficient technologies, and passive heating
and cooling approaches, organic architecture can drastically save utility expenses for occupants.
These features improve community life while also strengthening its general economic resilience.
In addition, It may increase in value due to the growing demand for environmentally friendly
housing, which would be advantageous for both local businesses and residents. As stated by
Tanyas and Korkmaz (2021) in their study "Sustainable Architecture: Evaluating Long-Term
Economic Benefits, Specifically in rural locations, the adoption of sustainable architecture might
result in major long-term economic benefits. It shows that over time, buildings created using
sustainable design principles experience significant energy savings as well as decreased
operating and maintenance expenses.
According to Maria T. Lauri (2023) in her research titled "Assessing the Economic Viability of
Eco-Friendly Housing," eco-friendly housing projects in rural areas demonstrate significant
economic outcomes. Implementing eco-friendly architecture in Riverview Heights can create
economic opportunities and stimulate local employment, while renewable energy sources may
help mitigate infrastructure challenges in rural areas.
By balancing design with local landscapes, climate, and community needs, organic architecture
can facilitate cultural integration in a proposed subdivision by encouraging a sense of place-
based bonding between the residents and their surroundings.

2.1.5. Sustainable Resource Management

The handbook 2021 titled "Sustainable Building Design for Tropical Climates". It is an invaluable
guide on architectural strategies over unique problems that exist in the built environment. Its
focus will include an in-depth discussion on how building design can minimize resource
consumption; emphasis will be placed on water and energy management. Techniques for
rainwater harvesting systems and greywater recycling are of utmost importance and were
outlined as a crucial means to conserve water for use in tropical settings. These are organic
architecture systems, embracing ideas for integrating buildings with their natural surroundings
while having minimum environmental impacts. Handbook practices also include site-specific
design; that is, local temperature, humidity, and solar radiation are taken into account when
planning for resource efficiency.
Resource efficiency related to energy management in the handbook encourages passive
cooling techniques and renewable sources of energy, especially photovoltaic panels. From
there, very much applicable to the tropical climate where cooling demand can be quite high,
passive cooling methods such as natural ventilation, solar shading, and the strategic use of
vegetation prove highly relevant. In the approach that the handbook takes, lifecycle
sustainability about building, talking about energy-efficient appliances, and renewable energy
solutions which cut the cost in the long operation, the building is considered to serve in harmony
with its environment, hence reducing its dependence on artificial sources of energy. The guide
also promotes waste management through onsite sorting and recycling facilities.
Organic architecture derives benefit from the waste minimization practices involving the
reutilization of construction materials and organic waste energy recovery. The use of local, low-
carbon materials by architects would reduce ecological effects in the building. This book is a
basic resource for anyone designing buildings using sustainable design solutions, especially
those working in the tropics. The practical solutions proposed here aim to apply the principles of
organic architecture​ . Energy Efficiency and Passive Cooling in Tropical Climate Buildings
offers a comprehensive review of the energy-efficient design of buildings, specifically tailored for
tropical climates. The study discusses the efficiency of passive cooling techniques - highly
necessary for cutting down energy consumption for cooling purposes - gives importance to the
use of natural ventilation, proper orientation of building structure, and sun-shading devices to
reduce the heat load inside.
These strategies not only cut down on the use of mechanical cooling systems but also are
based on organic architecture principles, wherein a building works with forces rather than
against them.
From this study, it can be further understood that the application of passive cooling techniques
can make the most significant difference if energy is thus saved from being used as air
conditioning in tropical climates where temperature and humidity levels are pertinent. It is quite
relevant in regions such as Carmen given sustainable resource management priorities. Such
design approaches lead to minimizing energy usage in buildings in general; therefore, it will go
along with the principles regarding sustainability and saving resources. In addition, the paper
presents the lifecycle benefits of passive cooling. Less usage of air-conditioning systems and
other energy-intensive buildings can, of course, achieve more long-term savings on energy use.
The research has emphasized that the use of locally available materials with low embodied
energy also contributes to making a building sustainable.
This approach ensures that resource management is integral to all the different stages of the
building's life cycle-the construction, operation, and eventual demolition/repurposing. Organic
architecture projects require energy efficiency, particularly integration with passive design
elements, for environmental harmony​ . The "Water Conservation in Tropical Architecture"
study provides relevant information on water management systems to be incorporated in
tropical architecture. Rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling are a big part of the
research because these are effective for areas where a situation of heavy rainfall occurs and
both are an asset and a challenge. The study involves harvesting, storage, and utilization of
rainwater for non-potable applications like irrigation and flushing toilets, highly reducing water
intake in buildings. This methodology fits the organic architecture framework with sustainability
incorporated into the system. Recycling greywater was another major emphasis of the research.
These will save building water use by treating and reusing it from sinks, showers, and laundry
for non-potable use. Greywater recycling, which allows treatment of water from sinks, showers,
and laundering for non-drinking applications, is a practical solution to maintain water efficiency
throughout a building's life cycle. Carmen has much to gain from this technology in regions
focusing much on sustainable water management. It describes how these systems are
integrated into the general architecture of a building without negatively affecting its aesthetics or
functionality. It is, therefore, an essential aspect that needs to be addressed by architects
working in tropical climates. In conclusion, the study touches on the issue of using native
landscaping to improve further water conservation.
By choosing the right plants, which are robust and hardy enough to grow in a local climate with
the least amount of water requirement, architects may reduce the usage of water intended for
landscaping; consequently, site-wide sustainability could be realized. Adding such systems into
the buildings will be ensured by the architects during the design process so that water will be
efficiently managed along its entire life cycle, thus supporting conservation of resources in the
long run.

2.2. Theoretical Background

This section identifies the theoretical frame of reference and background for this study,
synthesizing relevant literature that explores a number of related theories. The subsections will
discuss critical topics that include environmental compatibility, community enhancement,
cultural integration, economic considerations, and sustainable resource management. These
topics help in providing a holistic understanding of how organic architecture can be adapted to
effectively adapt to local environmental, social, and economic challenges so that design
achieves long-term sustainability and resilience.

Figure 2.2.1 Theoretical Framework

2.2.1. Environmental Compatibility

A. Passive Design Strategies in Tropical Architecture (Fulgar, A., 2022)

Equally important in tropical architecture by Fulgar Architects (2022) is the use of

passive systems like cross-ventilation, rainwater harvesting, and shading. These help improve
the energy efficiency and environmental sustainability of buildings. The buildings because they
make use of natural cooling systems reduce their intake of air conditioners and hence reduce
carbon emissions. This goes hand-in-hand with the notion of bioclimatic designs calling for
buildings to be sensibly designed according to particular climatic conditions. Some of the
simplest natural ventilation strategies comprise orienting the building to capture prevailing winds
and using wide openings for airflow. These, again are some basics to achieve thermal comfort
in hot and wet environments.
Apart from cooling, the passive design incorporates water management strategies, such as
rainwater harvesting, which can ensure much-reduced water consumption and minimize
impacts associated with frequent tropical downpours. Large overhangs of the roof and water
channels will help collect and store rainwater to be reused, thus reducing even more the
demand for external water resources for this building. All these strategies contribute to saving
energy, besides adapting to the climate; thus, it mitigates both short-term and long-term
changes in the environment. Resilience is developed when a building can withstand the effects
of climate change, such as increased temperatures and more intense rainfall patterns.
Fulgar Architects (2022) said that passive systems in tropical architecture support both
environmental sustainability and human comfort. Passive design is an adaptation of a building's
form and material to the appropriate climate, resulting in energy savings, reduction of carbon
emissions, and long-term resilience towards changing environmental conditions. The passive
approach is particularly significant in the context of global climate change since it secures a
sustainable solution to reduce the environmental impact of buildings while enhancing their
capability to respond to unique challenges in a tropical climate.

B. Integration of Local Materials and Climate-Responsive Design

(Lopez, J., 2021)

Lopez, centering his discussion on the culturally relevant selection of local materials within the
space of tropical architecture, elaborates how such selection is not only a good way to embrace
an environment-friendly delivery but also a culturally significant way to resonate in that area.
Using materials that are naturally abundant and sourced in that immediate vicinity minimizes the
building's carbon footprint by reducing the energy invested in transporting it and making it. For
instance, bamboo presents excellent structural properties as a renewable material suitable for
hot and humid climates. Together with its fast growth rate and ability to sequester carbon, its
environmental benefits justify it to be a prime choice for sustainable architecture in the tropics.
Volcanic stone, given the strength and natural thermal mass it has, can also achieve desirable
comfortable indoor temperatures without excessive use of energy.
These materials are used to reflect the principles of vernacular architecture that have long been
a cornerstone in the sustainable design of tropical regions. Vernacular buildings have
historically been designed with local materials and locally developed methods responsive to the
local climate. Modern tropical architecture has continued into this tradition by coordinating
contemporary methods of construction with indigenous knowledge, which keeps buildings
capable of adapting and resistant to environmental change. Lopez correctly states that though
architects can produce buildings and spaces that are well-functioning within a climate, the more
important issue is maintaining a sense of place and cultural identity through use of local
materiality.
Moreover, bringing these materials into the building coupled with climate-responsive design
elements including long overhangs and green roofs, ensures that the building can handle heavy
tropical rain and dampen the heat island effect. Such design decisions also minimize the
environmental footprint of the building through less usage of cooling energy and minimal storm
inroads. Then, integrating these locally sourced materials with climate-responsive design
eventually gives birth to a holistic approach toward sustainability: environmentally sensible and
culturally meaningful.

2.2.2. Community Enhancement

A. Hartwood Village: A Human-Centric Design Philosophy.

(Property Report., 2024)

Hartwood Village's architectural approach focused on enhancing residents' well-being and

quality of life. It emphasizes the integration of nature, community spaces, and sustainable
design, creating an environment that fosters human connections, mental well-being, and eco-
conscious living. The design incorporates natural materials, open spaces, and accessibility,
catering to diverse needs and promoting a balanced lifestyle for residents.
According to Property Report (2024), Hartwood Village applies a human-centered design
approach that emphasizes community integration and resident well-being. To encourage
contact and support a balanced lifestyle, the design places a strong emphasis on sustainability,
accessibility, and a connection to nature. Natural materials and open communal areas are used
throughout. The development's community-focused living areas and well-considered,
environmentally friendly architectural design seek to foster both physical and emotional health.
A design philosophy by creating neighborhoods that put sustainability, accessibility, and the
well-being of residents first. Through deliberate, people-oriented design decisions, the
development seeks to provide a lifestyle that is both environmentally responsible and focused
on improving the quality of life for its residents.
The article Hartwood Village: A Human-Centric Design Philosophy from Property Report (2024)
demonstrates the development's goal of using sustainable and eco-conscious design to create
areas that improve resident well-being. Hartwood Village’s planning ideas represent Federal
Land's dedication to reinventing modern living. Every element, from the rigorous circulation
planning to the tiny development scale, is painstakingly designed to highlight coziness and
connection. Human-centric design is a way of life in Hartwood Village, not just a theory. Federal
Land creates more than simply a subdivision by putting its people's needs and goals first; it
creates a lively, thriving community where each person is respected and every relationship is
treasured.
 B. ‘’Inclusive Design for Persons with Disabilities in Housing."
( Camella Homes., 2024).

The article on Camella’s website discusses the importance of inclusive design in housing for
persons with disabilities (PWDs). The focus is on designing houses that are safe, able to
accommodate people with disabilities, and accessible. Wider doorways, accessible bathrooms,
ramps, and non-slip flooring are emphasized as crucial elements. The goal is to ensure that
PWDs' living environments are both functional and supportive of their freedom and dignity.
Enhancing communities is intimately related to inclusive design concepts. In communities such
as Riverview Heights, accessible housing spaces allow people with disabilities to fully engage in
social activities and community events. This promotes inclusion and general well-being by
strengthening communal links and creating a sense of belonging. These designs improve
everyone's quality of life and give the community a more lively, integrated feel.
The focus of inclusive design in housing is to create spaces that are easily accessible to
individuals with impairments. By guaranteeing that every resident can safely and pleasantly
navigate their houses and common areas, this strategy improves community life. Subdivisions
can facilitate a feeling of inclusion and engagement among all residents by incorporating
elements like bigger doorways and ramps, which will improve the general cohesion and well-
being of the community. In order to encourage equality and accessibility among residents,
inclusive design must be used in subdivisions. It promotes independence and involvement by
making sure that people with disabilities can easily move around their homes and community
areas. Creating living environments that meet the different requirements of people, including
those with disabilities, requires the use of inclusive housing design. It strives to give all residents
equal access and opportunities while going beyond accepted design principles.
Therefore, included housing design is quite essential to someone with a disability, even a child,
in boosting independence and safety as well as living standards. A lot goes through the lives of
persons with problems daily, and inaccessible housing never makes anything better. The
program ensures that all occupants, irrespective of their physical capability, can comfortably live
in homes that have been designed using universal design principles. It means that family
members are much more at peace knowing that their loved ones are receiving the proper
treatments as outlined in the program.

2.2.3. Cultural Integration

A. Vernacular Architecture and Local Materiality (Gonzalez & Lim, 2022)
Indeed, Gonzalez and Lim (2022) discuss how contemporary design employs vernacular
architecture and the use of indigenous materials, with traditional modes of construction. This
theory argues that architecture should not just be functionally beneficial but it should also tell
and represent cultural stories and identities of the people whose habitat they are. Using bamboo,
stone, and local woods, among others, can bring forth a structure that is both environment-
friendly and culturally responsive. It is very relevant in the Philippines, for great abundance in
natural resources makes possible an enhancement of architectural identity with a minimal
carbon footprint brought about by transport and manufacturing of the materials.
This theory, as put forth in the context of Riverview Heights, underscores the salience of
designing spaces that are kept in commemoration in recognition of Carmen's cultural heritage.
With locally sourced building materials, the design can capture the historical and social fabric of
the community, ensuring that new developments resonate with the residents. This approach
encourages the use of traditional building techniques, which will cause a higher level of
preservation skills in local artisans and builders, enriching the cultural landscape of Carmen
The vernacular architecture approach also proactively encourages community participation in
the design process. Materials and construction methods discussed with local residents allow the
project to more keenly reflect the identity and values of the community. This participatory
methodology will enhance the architectural quality and incite pride and a sense of ownership,
beyond what has been installed by the residents of Riverview Heights. Then, the actual design
could be an excellent statement of cultural identity representing the history and traditions of
Carmen while providing modern facilities and interaction spaces for the community.

B. Culturally Sensitive Urban Design (Torres & Delos Santos, 2023)

Torres and Delos Santos suggest that there should be culturally sensitive urban design.
Generally, every context of urban planning and architectural designing would always be
underlined by local culture and heritage. According to such theory, any built environment of a
place must reflect its cultural identity along with the history behind that, so that residents may
feel a sense of belonging to that place. Culturally sensitive designs stay alive and emphasize
local traditions, rituals, and social practices; therefore, new developments must be able to
assimilate harmoniously within the existing cultural landscape.
This theory encourages Riverview Heights to consider cultural symbols and traditional spatial
configurations when designing their subdivisions. Communal areas such as gathering spaces,
plazas, or gardens that reflect the local culture can be adapted and integrated into the design to
facilitate communication and the cohesion of community relationships. Focusing on the
relevance of the culture helps avoid the dilution of cultural identity, particularly in fast-urbanizing
regions like Carmen, where rapid development is perceived by some as engulfing the local
heritage.
This is also because culturally sensitive urban design promotes the narrative aspect of
architecture. Embedding local stories, traditions, and historical references into the design is a
way that architecture may become a medium in which the community's heritage may be
celebrated and interpreted. This method not only breeds pride in the hearts of residents but may
also serve as an educational tool for visitors, helping them to appreciate the kind of cultural
richness Carmen has. For Riverview Heights, this will mean designing places that are useful as
well as symbolically important, enriching community identity, and promoting social cohesion.

2.2.4. Economic Considerations

A.Subdivision and Housing Developers Association (SHDA).
(SHDA Roadmap.,2023).
According to the SHDA Roadmap, Strategic initiatives in the housing sector emphasize growth
that is both inclusive and sustainable. They underscore how much affordable housing
contributes toward stability, employment, and the overall economic prosperity of the community.
The policy roadmap also encourages legislative reforms aimed at ensuring that housing
development is financially viable while catering to the diverse desires of the community. This
way, the benefits of development can be balanced between the housing industry and must give
prominence to inclusive and sustainable methods in finding answers to economic problems The
strategy also advocates simplification of regulation for better project viability which will
automatically benefit communities and the economy at large. The general economy and the
individual loved one receiving these treatments due to the program.
It is focused on adding infrastructure to develop houses more sustainably and efficiently. This
approach attempts to minimize environmental injury by inferring green buildings Apart from
fulfilling the housing needs, this holistic strategy aims to stimulate economic development
through innovation. In your neighborhood, putting a focus on sustainable practices can improve
environmentally friendly features. In addition to providing homes, Riverview Heights may foster
economic development and community resilience by advancing green building standards. The
objective of developing a sustainable and inclusive living environment is in line with this all-
encompassing strategy.

C. Camella. "The Philippine Economy and Real Estate: When to Invest."

( Camella Homes., 2024).
Comprehending the Philippine economy is crucial for real estate investing, according to Camella.
An end that the essay underlines is necessary to be able to detect market patterns and
economic indicators hence is important for initiatives such as Riverview Heights to complement
the state of the economy and optimize their chances for success in the rural housing market.
Real estate performance is virtually always correlated with the state of the economy. One of the
main sectors that indicate the health of an economy is the housing market. Relating real estate
investment and the status of the economy is important as it affects strategic planning and
decisions. Ensuring that house development is within demand and economic reality allows the
detection of trends in the market and the appropriate time to make investments.
The theory of economic conditions in real estate investment refers to how various factors within
the economy impact the real estate market. It enables developers to identify trends, make
rational decisions, and predict consumer demand. According to Colliers' first-quarter 2022
research, investors' confidence in the Philippine residential real estate market has not wavered.
The demand for real estate adjacent to business districts is rising as the economy wakes up and
approaches pre-pandemic levels.
Additionally, residential projects near Metro Manila are excellent places to invest because of the
increased construction of public infrastructure, particularly in the National Capital Region.
In principle, the Philippine economy and real estate are essential because they give developers
a thorough grasp of how economic movements affect housing demand and the timing of
investments. Consequently, this may also result in a short-term spurt in the price of real estate.

2.2.5.Sustainable Resource Management

A. Organic Architecture as Sustainable Resource Management (2021)

Sustainable Building Design for Tropical Climates further discusses organic architecture as a
way of harmonizing buildings into their natural setting by reducing their impact on the earth. This
philosophy serves tropical regions such as Carmen, where environmental conditions determine
what makes a design suitable, incorporating its sustainability aspect.
Some of the important underlying philosophies include resource efficiency, and avoiding waste
of water and energy. Rainwater harvesting and greywater re-utilization are part of such an
approach to ensure that water is not used in minimum amounts during various stages of building
usage. Therefore, the water-capturing and reuse systems implemented by architects can, in
many ways, help reduce demand for municipal supplies toward sustainability.
Passive cooling techniques are of extreme importance in the tropics to save energy. This is
possible through natural ventilation and strategic use of sun-shading devices that keep the
building with an internal environment at a justifiable comfort level without overdependence on
mechanical cooling systems. This will ensure long-term savings in the aspect of less
consumption of energy and also support the organic architecture ethos by keeping unity with the
forces of the environment.
Plus, the fact that the facility could encourage on-site sorting and recycling while reusing local,
low-carbon content material would easily fit in the sustainability story. There is a need to not
only reduce ecological footprint but also add to the overall resilience of the building itself and its
surroundings.

2.3. Conceptual Framework

Figure 2.3.1 Conceptual Framework