Look Home Vol 2

WHAT’S INSIDE
COVER STORY
43 Urban Escape
Introducing Alta Veranda de Tibig, an events venue in Silang,
Cavite inspired by traditional Spanish and Filipino aesthetics,
and built using modern construction methods.
FEATURES
16 The Making of Energy

Efficient Homes
LookHOME Philippines takes a closer look at five core
components – orientation, glazing, shading, ventilation
and insulation – that make homes energy efficient.
33 Big Ideas for Small Spaces

Living in the city usually means having to put up with
limited space. LookHOME gets design experts to dish
out tips on how to make the most of small spaces.
100 Embrace Your Taste

66

Following what’s popular need not clash with personal
preferences. Here’s a guide on how to pick colors that are
not only in fashion, but that also fit your personal style.
lookhome philippines volume 2 1

what’s inside
100
expert voices
9 22 Straight from the

Experts
We provide you with know-how right from the
people who help make every dream home a reality.
DESIGN SPOTLIGHT
72 52 Self-contained
Community
P.A. Properties’ latest development in Bulacan not
15

only aims to provide exceptional homes, but a
self-contained community as well.
55 Making a Home
A closer look at Phinma Properties’ design manager
Eric Tinio’s residence, which made use of the newest
building products and construction methods.
61 Well Designed & Built

Pagsanjan-based designer and builder Edison
Buenviaje helps two sisters get the home of
their dreams.
67 Modern Design
Suntrust Properties Inc. responds to homeowner’s
changing design preferences with the development
of Sentosa and Santa Rosa Hills.
2 lookhome philippines volume 2 lookhome philippines volume 2 3

what’s inside 24
firstword
We the urban dwellers…
I
n 2010, the World Bank ranked the Philippines 55th among 122 countries with the highest
proportions of urban residents. This meant that at that time, when the country only had
93.3 million people, 61.9 million lived in urban areas. That’s a stunning 66.4% of the urban
dwellers as percentage of the total.
And no, the situation isn’t expected to change anytime soon. The World Bank, in fact, estimates that
by 2030, 76.7% of the country’s total population will be urban dwellers.
87 Obviously, keeping the law of supply and demand in mind, urban population growth affects housing.
Already, as noted by the Global Property Guide’s Q1 2014 report, property prices have risen as much
as 113.3% (34.1% in real terms) from 2004 to 2014.
Now what do all these mean to us, plain urban dwellers?

61 Well Designed & Built
Pagsanjan-based designer and builder Edison It means that even as we compete with other people for the best spots in the metro, we have to
Buenviaje helps two sisters get the home of make do with the spaces that we get. Not that – mind you – we believe in just “making do”, since we
their dreams. truly believe we can help you maximize your urban dwelling and live without compromise.
67 Modern Design Which leads us to this issue of LookHOME Philippines, which aims to do exactly that: To provide you
with know-how on how to make sure your spaces become your perfect spots.
Suntrust Properties Inc. responds to homeowner’s
changing design preferences with the development
For instance, we have big ideas for small spaces (from page 33). And in the spirit of being
of Sentosa and Santa Rosa Hills.
environmentally aware, we look at how you can be climate-change ready in the urban setting (from
page 11). And then we have insider tips on designing and building on a budget (from page 27).
73 On a High
Cebu-based Architect Jose Mari Canizares presents We feature products, too, that could turn your space not only into functional, but also stylish venues
the epitome of contemporary tropical architecture (from page 6).
79 Living in Style There are also must-check-out projects we believe are worth highlighting – from Buenviaje Design
and Build’s projects in Pagsanjan, Laguna (from page 61) to Suntrust Properties Inc.’s Sentosa and
LookHOME takes a closer look at Victoria Ville,
Santa Rosa Hills (from page 67), and EVY Construction and Development Corporation’s Victoria Ville
a fast-growing housing development in Cavite
(from page 79). These developments are not only Metro Manila/Luzon-focused, as we also look at
Cebu-based Architect Jose Mari Canizares’ latest project (from page 73), and Cagayan de Oro-based
83 Design Wonder Arch. Jemma Sarol-Semaña’s works (from page 83).
Learn how an architect thinks. Cagayan de Oro
City-based Architect Jemma Sarol-Semaña takes To top it all, we look at a must-visit for urban dwellers – the Alta Veranda de Tibig located in Silang,
LookHOME through her design process. Cavite, and which makes for a charming escape from the hustle and bustle of city life (from page 43).
89 Perfectly at Home Happy reading!
CDO-based Architect Maria Linda Escaba of ML Escaba

Architectural Planning and Design has been in the
industry for over 20 years now, but she shows no sign LookHOME Philippines Team
of stopping as she showcases her latest designs.
95 The Unbuildable Site

When Todd Hatley found the perfect site for his new
family home, he found that it had a large tree that stood
firm in the way of getting the home built. Here’s how All reasonable efforts have been undertaken to make sure that information presented in this issue of LookHome is accurate at the time of printing. However, to
Hatley dealt with this issue. the extent possible at law, James Hardie excludes all liability for any errors or omissions in information that may occur. In some of the projects in this magazine,
James Hardie products have been used outside the scope of James Hardie’s technical literature. It is the specifier’s responsibility to undertake specific design and
detailing to ensure construction complies with relevant codes and regulations. Reproduction of LookHome in whole or part is prohibited without James Hardie’s
4 lookhome philippines volume 2 prior permission. All correspondence to: LookHome, James Hardie Philippines Inc., Brgy. Isidro, Cabuyao, Laguna 4025. ©James Hardie Philippines Inc. 2014™ and ®
denote a trademark or registered mark owned by James Hardie Technology Ltd.
product spotlight
Wilcon’s Top Ten

Making a home beautiful is not as easy as it seems. With so
many options available, it is easy to be overwhelmed. To help
narrow things down, we present our top finds from Wilcon
Builder’s Depot. character
plus
Price :
10,000.00
Want to bring comfort and
style into your home? The Heim
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perfect solution. Mix this piece
playing with a sofa set, or just leave it

to stand on its own. Either way,
with prints you’ve got a winner!
Price :
8,495.00
Tired of neutrals? Spice up your
living room with the Heim Jazzy
Chair. This stylish piece will surely
be a conversation starter!
encapsulating
elegance
Price :
6,504.00
Bring light and style into your space with
a lamp that looks like a piece of jewelry.
calming
The Heim Glass-Based Lampshade
radiates class and elegance, while
comfort
providing accent lighting to your space.
Price :
655.00
Big fan of the sea? Well, now you can enjoy
a bit of the ocean right in your bedroom timeless classic
with the Heim Under the Sea Pillow. Made Price :
from 100% cotton, this pillow is as soft as
13,000.00
it is chic.
The Heim High Back Tufted Sofa marries classic design
with modern aesthetics. If you’re looking to add
understated charm to your home, this sofa is the
piece for you.

product spotlight Product spotlight
stylish lighting
fun and Price :
14,950.00
function The Philips Slices Pendant Lamp is unlike
Price : any plain old lamp. It not only lights up
2,692.00 a space, it adds personality. With its ultra-
hip design, it’s sure to turn heads!
Old boring plastic chairs are out!
Heim’s Sumo lounging chair
makes relaxation synonymous
with style.
oriental
treasure
Price :
80,000.00
Who says storage has to be boring?
The Heim Chinese Chest set is not
only beautiful, it’s great for storing
knickknacks as well. It’s not just a piece
of furniture. It’s a piece of art!
fabulous find
Price :
316.00
Wilcon Home Essentials presents the Athens Black
Vase. Designed to complement a variety of styles
and tastes, this vase is the perfect addition to any
homemaker’s décor collection.
artistic
character
Price :
2,026.50
Decorative tiles are a great way to
spruce up your place – and they
hardly take up any space. Case in
point: Novabell’s Magnifica Marron
Wall Tiles. They add instant character
to any home!

features features
These are new times when extremes are fast

Climate Change and the City: becoming the new normal for all of us.
Getting climate-
T
here was a time, for instance, when
the dry season in the Philippines
change ready
meant having to brave temperatures
ranging from 30°C to 35°C. Well, that
range may have already been warm for us in
in urban
the past, but those days are gone. In 2013,
the highest temperature recorded in the
Philippines was 41°C (recorded by Project
setting
NOAH from Diffun, Quirino, a province
in Northern Luzon). The opposite is true,
too, with the wet season getting colder.
Also in 2013, the Philippine Atmospheric,
Geophysical, and Astronomical Services
The effects of climate change can no Administration (PAGASA) recorded a
temperature of 16.9°C in January in Quezon
longer be denied. But what can you The signs of global warming are City. That year ended with Metro Manila’s
– as an urban dweller – do about it? temperature at 20.7°C – the coldest ever
becoming more obvious and more recorded for the month of December in the
How can you contribute to greening frequent. A glut of extreme weather country’s capital.
efforts, even as you also make sure conditions is appearing globally.” We’ve been repeatedly told that the extreme
you are climate change ready? — Jim Yong Kim highs and lows of the temperature are but two
of the effects of climate change. And there are
other effects, from increased frequency and
intensity of storms, sea level rise, and changes in
precipitation patterns.
As Jim Yong Kim, president of the World

Bank (WB), correctly said: “The signs of global
warming are becoming more obvious and more
frequent. A glut of extreme weather conditions is
appearing globally.”
Efforts to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions are

what will – ideally – solve the problem. But that’s
the big plan. On a day-to-day basis, what we can
do is contribute to greening, and – while we’re at
it – survive by making sure we are climate ready.
BUY SUSTAINABLE
PROPERTIES
The best move is, of course, to buy properties
that are already green. Preferably, houses near
your place of work should also be considered,
since you cut your carbon footprint by being
close to amenities that you regularly use. Note
that many new build homes are built with
an eye on sustainability –whether because of
sustainable codes, or because the developers
are just eco-friendly. Sustainable features could
include installation of extra insulation, presence
of solar panels and water saving systems, and
use of eco-friendly materials.
But while the presence of green properties is

good and well, you may not be in the market for
one of these new builds. And so steps must now
be taken to make your home more sustainable.

features features
4
GOING SUSTAINABLE UPGRADE YOUR PROPERTY Re-visit your roofing.
A number of eco-friendly roofing
Making small changes at home can help Home improvement is another step to choices are now readily available for
reduce both your costs and your carbon consider to make you climate change ready. your home. You can even make a roof garden
1
footprint. Here are some of them: which is great for protecting against thermal
Check your walls and ceilings.
1
radiation and for reducing rainwater runoff.
Change your lights. Make sure the ceiling and interior
A little known fact is that lighting partitions of your home are durable. Make sure that your fascia boards hold up well
accounts for roughly 10% of the home With the rising frequency of rains, against the elements. Consider HardieFlex
energy bill. As such, this is an easy place water penetrating into your home is Senepa. They’re very durable and are made to
to begin increasing efficiency and saving unavoidable. Water and moisture damage withstand Philippine weather.
money. The United States Environmental is every homeowner’s nightmare. Consider
5
Protection Agency (EPA) recommends the HardieFlex sheets for your walls and ceilings. Use alternative materials and
replacement of your five most frequently Apart from being resistant to moisture building methods.
used light fixtures with ENERGY STAR damage, they also hold up very well against You can, of course, salvage materials.
products that provides brighter light fire, termites and impact. Using secondhand or antique furnishings,
while generating 75% less heat, using
2
doors, trim and fixtures makes good sense.
approximately 75% less energy, and lasting Choose the right window. But you can also make use of building
up to 50 times longer. According to Entergy Corporation and materials and methods that are not
2
Center for Climate Energy Solutions commonly used. For instance, instead of
Cool smartly. (C2ES), “old windows can allow a great deal
Yes, we need the air conditioning when putting up concrete hollow block walls for
of energy to be lost through the frames your bathroom, you can opt for HardieFlex
the temperature reaches over 40°C
and glazing.” When considering changing Pro for wet area walls. They take less time
during summer. But you can cut your electric
windows, therefore, they recommend and effort to build.
bills by using energy efficient air conditioners,
or by cleaning air filters regularly. These considering multiple panes, gas fills, edge
seemingly small steps have significant cost spacers, improved frame materials, and
reduction potentials. low-emission glass, all of which can reduce BE GREEN OR BE SORRY
unwanted heat transfer.
3 3
Consider sealing and Overall, you can play your part in turning the
insulating your home. Weatherize your home. world green, even as you also make yourself
“A knowledgeable homeowner You can reduce cooling needs and (and your home) climate change ready. And
or skilled contractor can save up to save on costs by investing in insulation these are but some of the things to consider if
20% on heating and cooling costs and and weatherization products. you want to do that.
significantly enhance home comfort with

comprehensive sealing and insulating
measures,” the EPA states.
4
Use water wisely.
Start by reducing water
consumption – for instance, don’t
let the water run while brushing your
teeth. Then consider fixing water leaks – a
leaky toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of
water per day, so having it repaired ASAP
should go without saying. Other steps can
include: using grey water (that is, recycle
water from sinks, tubs washers); and
harvesting and using rainwater.
5
Use appliances wisely.
Consider using only appliances
with high Energy Efficiency Ratios
(EER). And then take the small steps – for
instance, turn off appliances you’re not
using it; and unplug those chargers when
they’re not in use.

features features
Energy Efficient Homes:
5 Things
to Consider
Making homes efficient
by understanding the
five core components of
energy efficient design:
orientation, glazing,
shading, ventilation and
insulation.
E
nergy efficient homes save their
owners money. They make their
homeowners comfortable. They
save the environment from
excessive power use. They make the
environment a better place. In this
LookHOME guide, we explain and detail
the six core components of energy
efficient design: orientation, glazing,
shading, ventilation, insulation and
thermal mass. We tell you why they
matter and share tips on how you can
achieve the best results for your home.
Want a happy home? Have an energy
efficient home.
HOW IT WORKS and colder season energy bills). Then observe houses, while in the summer neighboring room uses from one side of the house to the
1 ORIENTATION The aim of good orientation is to position
the house such that it takes advantage of
the impact of nearby buildings and existing
landscape on your site and establish true or
houses can provide protection from low east
and west sun.
other – this can save you a packet in building
costs, as well as long term running and
the sun and wind paths. This is achieved solar north for your region. maintenance costs.
Orientation refers to the position of a home with no effort from occupants and no RENOVATING AN EXISTING HOME
Simply put, eaves are your
on a property in relation to the sun, and is the additional cost. CHOOSING A SITE When it comes to retrofitting, homeowners ORENTATION FOR PASSIVE COOLING
home’s outdoor ceilings.
very place where energy efficiency begins. Homeowners lucky enough to be able to need to first look at their floor plan to In hot climates, a home’s orientation should
They’re exposed to heat and
WHAT YOU NEED TO CONSIDER choose a site with the right characteristics gauge their home’s existing passive solar aim to exclude sun year round and maximize
rain all year round. Make sure
WHY IT MATTERS Whether you’re building or retrofitting, the will likely be able to achieve good passive performance. Do the living areas face the your eaves are able to stand
exposure to cooling breezes.
Good orientation not only has the ability first thing to consider is a home’s heating solar performance at a minimal cost. right way to take advantage of sun and up well against the country’s
to reduce or eliminate reliance on auxiliary and cooling needs. Are you in a climate For most climate regions, sites running from cooling summer breezes? harsh weather conditions. Cooling breezes often come in the form of
cooling and heating – and therefore slash that requires mainly passive heating, north to south are ideal because they receive Consider HardieFlex eaves. cool air currents in late evening and early
energy bills – it can drastically improve the passive cooling, or a combination of both? good access to northern sun with minimum It’s often easy to change the orientation of a They’re specifically developed morning. These breezes should be directed
internal comfort of a home year round. (If you’re unsure, compare your summer potential for overshadowing by neighboring house when renovating simply by swapping to withstand the Philippines’ into the house at night to cool the interior.
weather, and they’re resistant
to damage caused by fire,
16 lookhome philippines volume 2 moisture, termites and impact. lookhome philippines volume 2 17
features features
2 GLAZING 3 SHADING
The amount of glazing used in a home is Unprotected glass and walls are often
one of the major contributing factors to the greatest source of unwanted heat in
a home’s energy efficiency, as windows in a home. By keeping sun off external walls
a typical insulated house can account for and windows, a home will stay cooler later
more heat gain than any other building in the day and greatly reduce the need for
element. mechanical cooling.
WHY IT MATTERS WHY IT MATTERS

When properly selected and oriented, Shading can block up to 90% of heat gained
glazing can help provide year round from direct sunlight and is one of the
comfort and reduce air conditioning energy cheapest, easiest and most effective ways of
consumption. maintaining a home’s thermal comfort and
improving its overall energy efficiency.
ASSESS YOUR GLAZING PERFORMANCE
The main factors to consider with glazing WORKING WITH YOUR ORIENTATION
are the size and orientation of windows, the For a home’s northern orientation, fixed
amount of shading available, and the type of shading that is 600mm deep, such as eaves
glass used in the windows. and awnings, can drastically reduce internal
temperatures. Adding a pergola meanwhile,
GLAZING PRINCIPLES with angled slats, further screens summer sun
Despite complexity in assessing while still admitting natural light.
performance, there are simple principles that
can be followed at design stage to optimize East and west orientations, with low morning
the thermal performance of glazing. and afternoon sun, are the most difficult
to shade. Shading structures for these
These include: orientations need to be low over the window,
• Locate and size windows and shading to let and adjustable or removable (think awning
sunshine in when the temperature is cool blinds or roller shutters).
and exclude it when it is hot.
NATURAL SHADING
• Locate window and door openings to Think shading must be man-made? Think
allow natural cooling by cross ventilation. again. Planting can provide a very inexpensive
shading solution. Trees and vines, for example,
• Seal openings to minimize unwanted can effectively block the sun and reduce the
draughts. heat gain in your home.
• Consider heat-reflecting windows WORKING WITH EAVES

or even double glazed windows to Correctly designed eaves are generally the
insulate the walls better from the heat. simplest and least expensive shading method
Use windows with thermal breaks in for northern elevations, and are generally all
the window frames to minimize heat that’s required on most single storey houses.
leakage through the window frames
into your home. STRUCTURAL SHADING
Deep verandahs, balconies or pergolas can be
SOLAR HEAT GAIN COEFFICIENT The lower a window’s SHGC, the less Double glazing consists of two panes used to shade east and west elevations, but
There are literally thousands of types of glass solar heat it transmits and the greater its of glass separated by a sealed air space may still admit very low angle summer sun.
and frames to choose from and selecting shading ability. SHGC can be expressed filled with dry air and a “desiccant”. As a An air speed of 0.5m Try using these in combination with planting
the right ones is critical to improving energy in terms of glass alone or can refer to the unit it can significantly reduce a home’s per second equates to filter unwanted sun. Pergolas covered with
efficiency in a building. entire window assembly. heat loss in cold climates and heat gain in vines provide self-adjusting seasonal shading.
to a 3 degree drop in
hot climates. A 500mm gap between the wall and planted
temperature at relative
Solar heat gain (referred to as Solar Heat Gain DOUBLE GLAZING screens should be left for ventilation and
Coefficient or SHGC) is the ratio of external In both hot and cold climates double- Studies show double-glazing can reduce humidity of 50%.
cooling. Also, protect skylights and roof glazing
solar radiation admitted through a window glazing can improve a home’s thermal a home’s reliance on air-conditioning by with external blinds or louvers. This is crucial as
or skylight. SHGC is expressed as a number comfort by cutting both heat loss and 30%, cutting both power costs and a home’s roof glazing receives almost twice as much heat
between 0 and 1. heat gain. environmental footprint. as an unprotected west facing window.

Quick tip:
If you have a
lightweight home and
want to improve your
comfort, the first point
of call in insulation
will be your walls and
ceilings because of ease
of access.
UNDERSTANDING HEAT TRANSFER

5
pockets of air within its structure; these
INSULATION There are three ways in which heat is air pockets provide the resistance to heat
transferred: radiation, convection and flow. Bulk insulation reduces radiant,
conduction. convective and conducted heat flow.
Insulation acts as a barrier to heat flow
and is essential to keep your home cool. • Radiation refers to direct heat that can be Reflective insulation works by reducing the
sensed by the skin, such as the sun’s rays radiant heat transfer across an enclosed
WHY IT MATTERS or the heat from an open fire. space. Reflective foils in walls or under
An appropriately insulated and well designed the roof reflects radiant heat away from
home will not only provide year round • Convection transfers heat through the interior.
comfort, it can lead to significant savings on movement. For instance, when air is
your electricity bills. warmed, it rises and is replaced by cooler air. R-VALUES EXPLAINED
All insulation materials are rated for their
HOW IT WORKS • Conduction is heat transfer from warm performance in restricting heat transfer.
The term ‘insulation’ refers to materials that to cooler areas within a material, or This is expressed as the R-value, also
provide substantial resistance to heat flow. between two materials. Solid materials, known as thermal resistance or resistivity.
When these materials are installed in the particularly metal, conduct heat much
ceiling, walls and floors of a building, heat more readily. To compare the insulating ability of
flow into and out of the building is reduced, products and construction systems, look
and the need for heating and cooling TYPES OF INSULATION at their R-Value: the higher the R-value the
minimized. Resistance to heat flow is achieved by the higher the level of insulation. Products
use of either bulk insulation or reflective with the same R-value will provide exactly
The five key areas of a home to insulate are insulation, which work in different ways. the same insulating effect, provided they
attics, walls, floors, basements and crawl spaces. Bulk insulation traps millions of tiny are installed correctly.
20 lookhome philippines volume 2

expert voices expert voices
Architecture
as a Manifestation Creation is the highest form of intelligence.
We believe that architecture is a manifestation
of Creation of creation.”— Arch. Jonathan O. Gan
Getting up close and

personal with Architect
Jonathan O. Gan.
A
rchitect Jonathan O. Gan
believes in the progressive
nature of design. That is,
“architecture is a progressive
practice, and so our designs are equally
progressive. Our design aesthetic is
dynamic. We do not believe in limiting
ourselves to a signature style or look.”
It is this dynamism that is apparent in the works

of the Jonathan O. Gan + Associates, where Gan
is the principal architect and managing partner.
Gan finished his Bachelor of Science in

Architecture from the University of Santo Tomas.
He is a member of the College of Fellows
of the United Architects of the Philippines
(UAP). Gan began to serve the organization
in 2001 in varying capacity as the UAP Metro
Chapter Treasurer and Chapter Vice President
for Operations. Gan has a broad background
in architecture and design of mixed-use/multi-
use developments, commercial/retail, office,
warehouse, residential, subdivisions, religious
institutions, sports complex, resorts, and
restaurants all over the country. The firm has
been recognized in BCI Asia’s Top Ten Market
Leaders in Architecture.
Gan’s associates consist of 50 architects, interior

designers, 3D architects and site engineers, but
they all regard the client as the expert as far as
his (i.e. the client’s) project objectives, needs,
preferences and resources are concerned. The
architect, on the other hand, draws from his
own professional expertise and experience,
and engages the client in a collaborative
process of determining the best possible
project approach or solution.

Featured Project
Z-Square Commercial
Time management is key in
Development:
successful projects. Knowing
the clients expectations and
target dates early gives us
Greening a
the opportunity to create
accurate and efficient work
Masterpiece
plans that is, of course, to
our mutual benefit.”
B
— Arch. Jonathan O. Gan
uilt from November 2011
to July 2013, Z-Square is
a five-story commercial
If there are three things Gan wishes people development in
knew before they ask an architect to design a Quezon City. While there
house for them, it is the specifics. is no shortage of malls in
this part of the metro,
Firstly, design requirements. “This may range what makes this
from anywhere between aesthetic preference project special is the
and space planning and programming. We 24.50 meter high
appreciate clients who know what they want. vertical wall garden
It becomes easier for us to integrate our own that makes it emblematic
vision for the project,” Gan said. of how greening can
be done in urban
Secondly, there’s the matter of budget. developments.
“Knowing the amount of funding for the project
allows us to create a structured program of “We approach all our
development for the project’s lifespan. It also projects differently,”
helps us in actual design and specification.” Jonathan O. Gan, principal
architect and managing
And lastly, timeline. “Time management is key partner of Jonathan
in successful projects. Knowing the client’s O. Gan + Associates,
expectations and target dates early gives us the said. “Every project
opportunity to create accurate and efficient is unique in most,
work plans that is, of course, to our mutual if not all aspects.
benefit,” Gan said. Perhaps the common
denominator in
At the end of the day, Jonathan O. Gan terms of how we
+ Associates’ team of competitive and approach our
disciplined individuals strives to deliver projects would
innovative designs that aim primarily for the be our collective
client’s needs and satisfaction. passion that is
reflected in all
“Creation is the highest form of intelligence. We our designs.”
believe that architecture is a manifestation of
creation,” Gan ended. For Z-Square, vertical green
walls were used to promote
better cooling and act as a
More information about Jonathan O. Gan +
Associates is available at www.jogassociates.com. natural buffer from rain, wind and noise.

Inside the
minds of 2 Get a good architect to help you through the project.
Designing and building a home takes some time, and
it is essential that you choose someone you trust and
feel at ease with.
“Generally, a good architect will try to get to know the
the experts
occupants of the space. She/he should ask about you and
your family’s routines so that she/he can design a space that
caters to your present and,
ideally, even future needs,”
Tan said.
Building a home is a daunting task,
what with all the considerations A good architect will also
analyze the building site. “If
you have to make, from your budget,
you already have a lot, she/
to what material to use, to getting he will need to consider its
that sense of a place being the “right orientation against the sun
3
and wind paths.”
one” for you. Fortunately, there are
experts around who know what to do,
and we’ve compiled their tips to help Discuss building
materials with your
make things easier for you.
architect.
The types of materials

that you want to use in
your home will have a
Home Building Tips For significant impact on

your budget, so it is
The Budget Conscious essential to settle this

in the early stages of
planning.
So you want to have your own home, but you don’t have a lot
to spend? Fear not, with Architect Richard J. Tan’s tips for the “When building your
budget-conscious. home, don’t just look
at the initial purchase
The corner of the building, which is also the price of materials. Architect Richard J. Tan
main atrium, serves as the focal point of the Know your budget limitations. Before starting or Consider the long-term.
structure. And because the design lets the planning to construct, get a ballpark estimate of the If you choose durable,
outdoors in, there is little need for artificial project cost. high quality materials, you will save a lot on repair and
lighting or air-conditioning. renovation costs. Try to look for products that have valid
The usual formula is: Total floor area (in square meter) x warranties,” Tan said.
For Z-Square, Jonathan O. Gan + Associates price per square meter = Total Project Cost.
used HardieFlex fiber cement boards for
unit partitions and ceilings. Like all James The price per square meter varies from city to city, of
Hardie products, HardieFlex walls and ceilings course – for instance, in Cagayan de Oro City, where When buying building products,
perform well against the Philippines’ severe Tan’s practice is, it ranges from P20,000 to over P25,000 make warranties a consideration.
weather conditions making them ideal for per square meter. Also note that the total project cost You don’t want to spend your hard
Z-Square’s design where the building’s interior derived from this formula does not cover furniture and earned money on something without
is partially exposed to sun and rain. utilities. “Remember that this is just an estimate, so an assurance of quality. For instance,
there’s a chance that you might need to spend more. when buying boards for walls or
“We believe that James Hardie will always Despite this possibility, it is still important that you have ceilings, opt for HardieFlex fiber
provide you with only the best quality a budget, so that you can set your expectations even cement boards. In addition to having
products,” Gan said. before you start building,” Tan said.
a product warranty that’s valid in the
Z-Square is now a study of how to harness country, they’re also free of asbestos, so
In addition, “sticking to a budget saves a lot of time.
what nature has to offer in project you won’t be exposing your family to
In many cases, people waste a lot of time considering
development, right in the middle of the hustle options that they shouldn’t be looking at in the first health risks.
and bustle of Quezon City. place because it is way out of budget,” Tan added.

4
Transcend trends.
Interior Design Tips For Re-think purchasing that psychedelic couch. Instead,
The Budget-Conscious invest in a well-built quality sofa in a neutral color

that can last you for years. “It doesn’t have to be
boring, you can use accent styling pieces like throw
Turning your house into a home means furnishing it with pillows with the colors or patterns you are currently
what defines you – and here, cost-wise, the sky is not always loving. This way, when you tire of it, you can easily
the limit. For the budget-conscious, here are tips from replace these items without breaking the bank. Can
Architect Deniece Yusun of CY Design Studio, and interior you imagine being stuck with a fuchsia floral sofa 20
Top 3 Interior
1 5
designer Anna Celine Simbulan-Darcen, Managing Director years from now?” Yusun asked.
of Simbulan Industries Phils. Inc.
Prioritize.
Invest in quality.
Design Trends
In 2014
Simbulan-Darcen also recommends choosing
quality over good bargain. “Buying cheap materials
Make a list of your priorities for your home and then try does not automatically give you savings. You have
to distribute your budget in proportion to your priorities. to think long term when building your home.
“Having this from the start will aid you in deciding when Remember: You are investing for yourself and your
to splurge and when to save, thus making sure you are family. There are new materials available in the Here are tips from interior designer
getting what you want at the cost you are comfortable market offered by reliable companies like James Anna Celine Simbulan-Darcen,
with,” Yusun said. Hardie that will ensure that you get the quality
Managing Director of Simbulan
required for your home,” she said.
Simbulan-Darcen recommends working one room at Industries Phils. Inc., on what’s hot
a time. “Identify the rooms that need improvement. for 2014 – and even beyond.
Prioritize the rooms that are used more often (i.e.
bedrooms, dining, living room). By focusing on a specific
room, you avoid having unnecessary purchases whether
it be raw materials, loose furniture or decorative items,”
2
1
she advises.
Consider industrial interiors. The mixed use
Buying cheap materials of wood, cement, metal on the interiors and the
Have an idea. addition of masculine furniture design without
does not automatically
Architect Deniece Yusun sacrificing aesthetic and comfort in the home.
“The number 1 rule in designing your home on a budget give you savings. You
is to have a clear idea of the theme that you want,”
have to think long term
2
Simbulan-Darcen said. “Living in a highly advanced world
where design pegs are within reach, whether through For Simbulan-Darcen, re-use as much as you can. “Old when building your Use bold colors. Adding an accent wall color to
social media or internet search engines, there is an pieces of furniture and accessories can be updated your otherwise white interiors keeps the home
abundance of interior design inspirations that can guide through refinishing, reupholstery and refurbishing. home. Remember:
interesting and lively. Use these accents in your
you in creating home interiors that best suits your taste You can mix these old pieces with new ones that will You are investing for living room and bedroom for that instant twist.
and budget.” blend well with your theme. Control your urge to have
everything new in your home. Old pieces can help yourself and your family.
There are new materials
3
Once you have decided on what you really want, you’ll you save and give an instant warmth and history to
have an easier time achieving the look without going your new home,” she said. Restore old furniture. Old pieces give a certain
available in the market
3
over your target price. charm to a space. Flea markets will come in handy
offered by reliable in getting noteworthy pieces. You can get your
Explore your creativity. Like James Hardie’s Facebook companies like James flea market finds restored by our company, Simbulan
Industries Phils. Inc. We specialize in manufacturing
page at www.facebook.com/ Hardie that will ensure
“Oftentimes, when faced with a lot of constraints, with JamesHardiePH to get access quality furniture, and in reviving old pieces to make them
budget usually being the foremost, we end up with the
that you get the quality look brand new.
to a wide array of design ideas
most creative and unique solutions to spaces. Old glass for your home. required for your home.”
bottles turned into really cool lighting fixtures? Why not!”
Yusun said.
— Anna Celine Anna Celine Simbulan-Darcen
Simbulan-Darcen

expert voices
Greening Your
5 Tips To Maximize
Space In Your
Condo
Urban living has long been associated with making do
in cramped condos. But according to Architect Deniece
Things To Know Before
Asking An Architect To
Design Your House
Yes, the architects are the experts. But they are not magicians
– at least most of the time – so that providing them with
Space
A quick chat with Architect Topel Lobregat
of the Lobregat Design Group, who shares
his knowledge on how urban dwellers can
successfully bring plants into their homes.
W
Yusun, there are steps you can take to make the most of information about what you want to achieve is essential.
hat are your top three landscape architecture tips for people living
the space you’ve got. Architect Deniece Yusun and Architect Topel Lobregat allows us
in the city? Which plants thrive best in urban settings like Metro
a peak into their minds, and share what they wish people knew
1
Manila?
before they ask for help in designing their homes.
1
Curate yourself. 1 Philippine endemic and other tropical plants will almost always thrive
even in Metro Manila, but, unless you’re growing an edible garden, try
to avoid “chopsuey” or over mixing the plants in your garden. The power of
“Try to have a whole theme/concept/color scheme for Take a good look at your unit and be realistic with
Architect Topel Lobregat plants in the aesthetic context is in groups. It is better to use just one to three
your unit. Working with a cohesive concept can help the space that you have to work with.
4
types of plants grouped in large quantities.
make the room look unified and organized. Whereas
2
mixing a lot of concepts, or having random pieces “This will help you narrow down and prioritize
that cannot be related together only confuses the eye,”
Yusun said.
what your needs truly are. In a small space, it
is important to make sure that you are able to
2 Allocate land for open spaces. Create spaces that are meant to give
your eyes a rest. This can be achieved by planting grass only or by using
Realize the difference between value only one type of plant in certain parts of your garden. These spaces are called
maximize every square meter for its potential and cost. architectural voids. In both architecture and landscape architecture, voids are
function – whether it be a small work area, storage,
meant to enhance the overall design and increase the visual impact of the
Use reflective surfaces in strategic areas. or just a reading nook that you think you cannot “I wish people knew the difference space.
live without. This can help your designer a lot in between value and cost, and how the
Mirrors and metallic ornaments, when used appropriately, terms of making the most out of your unit, and in
3 Use
difference plays a key role in architectural what’s useful to you. If you’re fond of cooking, make yourself an
can create the illusion of having a larger space. It can the end, fulfill all your checklists,” Yusun said. services,” says Lobregat. “Subjectively, value edible garden. If your place is prone to floods, make yourself a rain
2
open up rooms by reflecting the existing space, the covers personal meaning and memories garden to properly manage surface rainwater. If there are a lot of mosquitoes
3
lights, and even the outdoor view. attached to a certain space. Objectively, where you live, plant neem trees. They are proven to have mosquito-repellent
Have at least three inspiration images or objects. value can be quantified by the usefulness qualities. The value of landscaping lies on how it’s used.
of space or the monetary profit you gain
Try to create built-in storage. “Browse through the Internet or magazines for from resale. On the other hand, cost What’s the best way for condo
anything that catches your eye. Even if you cannot pertains to expenses incurred during dwellers to green their space
“This will help you maximize each and every available yet specifically identify what it is that attracted you construction including the professional given the limited space in most
space in your unit including the height of the room, small to these images, your designer’s experience can help fees of the architect, designer, et cetera.” condos in the market today?
4 3
awkward corners, the space beneath the stairs, and even you narrow down what it is you are seeking for. This is
the space beneath your bed or sofa. Having enough extremely helpful especially if you want to save time.” “If clients value the architect’s fee, expertise and Many of today’s condominium
storage can also help you avoid clutter in the future. You imagination, and respect the design process, units have balconies. These
will be thankful for these storage options once you finally the architect can better immerse himself balconies are usually not very
move in!” Yusun said. Remember that developing good design into his clients’ dreams and aspirations, and spacious, but they can still be
takes time. translate these into the spaces. Sometimes, great places for vertical gardens,
the architecture becomes so successful and so which are also referred to as
Accentuate your space with lighting. “A lot of clients are under the notion that by meaningful that the cost becomes irrelevant,” green walls, living walls or eco
5
sketching a plan or perspective, the work of the Lobregat adds. walls. Hydroponics allows for
Have you ever noticed how poorly lit rooms feel smaller, architect is almost done. In reality, this is only the
the vertical gardens to flourish
while well-illuminated rooms appear larger? There are tip of the iceberg. Your architect not only has to
by using nutrient-rich water to
many options for lighting. If creating a dropped ceiling detail this design, from the layout of the rooms Nurture the relationship. sustain the plants. There is no
with embedded lights is not an option for you, use to the tiniest gaps in your ceiling, he also has to
need for soil making it the ideal
lamps in different parts of your rooms. These double as coordinate with other tradesmen like engineers Lobregat believes that there should be a solution for condo-dwellers.
decorative pieces as well. and suppliers to make sure that everything comes mutually fulfilling relationship between an Green walls can also thrive
together as a whole. Like any organization, architect and his client. This relationship “starts indoors depending on the types
planning ahead and more importantly, planning with the client empowering the architect, of plants used. Apart from being
Use multi-functional furniture to create multi- well, helps mitigate confusion and reduce potential and allowing him to lead the project with the great to look at, these walls also
functional spaces. errors on site,” Yusun said. clients’ best interest in mind,” he said. improve air quality.

features
expert voices features
Architect Architect
Richard DENIECE
J. Tan YUSUN
Architect Richard J. Tan is an active member Arch. Deniece Yusun graduated Summa Cum
and formerly a national director of the United Laude and Valedictorian from the College of
Architects of the Philippines (UAP). He is Architecture, University of the Philippines. She
a Cebuano Filipino-Chinese architect and later on spent three years in MTI+PA Architects as
licensed real estate broker who started his a Junior Associate Architect, gaining experience in
own architectural, building and realty firm in the design and project management of a multitude
Cagayan de Oro City in 2000. of project types.
Arch. Tan graduated from the achievers’ class After gaining her Architecture License, she, along
of the University of San Carlos – Architecture with her partner, established CY Design Studio,
Batch 1988 in Cebu. He also finished a course in specializing in the design of high-end residences,
environmental planning. concept retail and commercial spaces, residential
interiors, mixed-use buildings, and developing
Arch. Tan’s projects include the MacArthur showrooms for top developers with the likes of
Memorial Marker at Macabalan Wharf, San Miguel Development Corporation.
the San Lorenzo Ruiz Filipino-Chinese
Catholic Church, the Divine Mercy Shrine, In 2013, she completed her Masters on
the Philippine Red Cross Building and the Environmental Design and Engineering in
YMCA Building in Cagayan de Oro. He also the Bartlett School of Architecture in London.
Supersize your Space:
Big ideas
designed the river raft-inspired Tourist Currently, she is also a US Green Building
Information counter in the Laguindingan Council LEED Certified Accredited Professional in
International Airport. Building Design + Construction.
for small
Architect
ANNA CELINE
spaces
TOPEL SIMBULAN-
LOBREGAT T
Living in the city has long been he challenge of a small space is, well,
DARCEN synonymous with putting up with small

spaces. But this need not be the case if
that it’s small! Which is why we’re so
often asking, how do I make it feel
bigger without losing that cozy factor?
Arch. Topel Lobregat graduated Laurea Anna Celine Simbulan-Darcen is an interior
you follow these 18 tips on how to make In this special report five leading design
Magistrale/Specialistica in Architettura designer and the managing director of Simbulan experts share some incredibly clever ideas
(Building Architecture Science) at Industries Phils., Inc (SIPI), an organization that the most of small spaces. on maximizing the appearance, livability and
Politecnicodi Milano in Milan, Italy. He has a specializes in the manufacture and supply of
wow factor of small spaces.
degree in Landscape Architecture from the furniture and furnishings. SIPI was established in
University of the Philippines. 1976 by Celine’s father, Renato Simbulan who, at
the age of 20, decided to make use of his creative According to interior designer Wende Reid, they
talents and bring products to the international may be less challenging than you think. Reid
Lobregat established his multi-disciplinary
market. With a track record spanning over 35 years, says that it’s actually much more challenging
design firm with primary focus on master
SIPI is now recognized as one of the Philippines’ to design an enormous space and make sure
planning, landscape architecture, and parks largest and most reliable manufacturer and it’s not boring than to design a really cohesive
and resorts design. The Lobregat Design supplier of high-end furniture. smaller space – as long as you use all the
Group is devoted to designing outside the
elements available to you.
conventional, and thinking out of the box. For more information, visit www.simbulan.com.ph.

34
features features
Disguise Your Storage Plan, Plan, Plan

With a small space you don’t want a lot of visual noise or Before you even move a piece of furniture, interior
clutter, says Brett Mickan of Brett Mickan Interior Design. designer Wende Reid, director of interior design firm
What you do want is super-clever storage. Form and Color, advises thinking first about how you
want your small space to function.
“There are a lot of tricks you can do,” Mickan says. “If you do built-in
storage, disguise it into the wall. Or if you’re doing a dining space, “You need to evaluate all of your needs – whether active needs,
rather than having chairs all the way round, perhaps put a banquette passive, cooking or entertaining – just everything you need to
against one wall which can also be storage, which can be hidden and do. There will be a way to accommodate them but if you don’t
means the table can sit much closer to the wall.” take them into account now, you’ll be surprised later.”
Built-ins help, he says. “If you have a small space you want things to
be visually quiet. So if you have built-in storage that disguises into the
wall, maybe painted the same as the wall, then that’s going to give you
more room for your prominent pieces.”
Built-ins are a massive help in small spaces, agrees Ascanio Cascione,

furniture design specialist and Raffles Design College lecturer. “If you’re
doing a big renovation try to include built-ins, ceiling-to-floor built-ins,
because they can actually improve the look and the size of the space.
Also try and include seating under windows, which can both have the
function of seating and the function of a container for storage.”
Change How You See Color

Small spaces can be massively helped by a clever color palette
– and not necessarily one that you might expect.
Put Your Sofa On Legs

“One of the things that’s counterintuitive about a small space is that everybody thinks
that if they make everything white it’ll look bigger,” says Wende Reid. “But actually
white is the brightest color and it comes towards you.”
A key tip from Ascanio Cascione is to steer clear of
skirting or heavy bases on sofas – and to, instead, While Reid says this is true of all spaces she believes it’s critical in small spaces.
choose a sofa that shows off its legs. “You want “It’s important to understand what color does. It creates different illusions. So if you
furniture that rises up with legs from the floor to use a color that’s not bright but that is not white … it will step back.
give a sense of space,” he explains. “Often if you paint the walls a medium value color or just a few steps deeper than
white they will recede. And that’s really good: to get the walls to step back but to work
Brett Mickan agrees. “For a sofa, even if you want a modern for you because behind them is all the things that you need – your storage.”
deep sofa, have it on legs. That way it’s visually light, it
doesn’t take up a lot of visual space and it doesn’t feel heavy She advises using soft greys, greens or blues to help step walls back – not reds or
and take over the room,” he says. yellows which “come forward” – and then contrast these with focal points. “Maybe
a beautiful mirror and vase on the wall can be white and come forward but you’ve
controlled it because the rest of the wall is stepping back.”

5
features features
8
Accept That
Less Is More
Most people simply have too
much “stuff” in their living spaces,
argues Brett Mickan. “90% of the
6
time the first thing you have to do
is remove half the stuff in there,” he
Room
says. “So many people overdesign
and you really have to simplify it
and strip the space back to its raw
structure to see it.”
Re-think the
bedside table
If your bedroom is small, ask
yourself whether you really
need that bedside table or
by room
whether some shelving would Brett Mickan’s (of Brett Mickan
do the trick. Interior Design) room-by-room
breakdown of big ideas for
“In a bedroom, instead of having a
CHOOSE A FEW bedside table next to your bed try to
think about shelving because shelving
small spaces.
KEY PIECES
L
on the side can actually make a space
look bigger,” says Cascione.
iving space: Think what the function will be, how
One of the benefits of a small space is you the traffic flow will work, and the scale. That’s the
don’t need many pieces to make a big most important thing in a small space: that the
impact. “If you have a really huge room furniture is to scale, that large pieces aren’t going
you can fill it with a ton of furniture and to dwarf it, that it’s comfortable but to scale.
that will cost you a lot of money,” Mickan
says. “But if you have a small space, and
Kitchen: If it’s a small space, especially one connected
you have things like disguised storage
9
to a living space, [a kitchen] can really take over a space
and banquettes, then you just need a few
if it’s loud. So just focus on elements. Maybe the island is
fabulous chairs, one amazing table – you
something different with a stone top, but then the rest of
don’t need a lot.”
the kitchen recedes to the walls. Look at integrated fridges,
dishwashers, appliances like that ... so that they’re quiet and
just part of the architecture.
Don’t Forget Bedroom: When you have an apartment more often
Choose Multi-Functional Under The than not the bedroom is very small. So somebody’s first
reaction would be, ‘Lets paint it white so it appears bigger.’
Furniture Bed! But I think this is a space where you’re going to sleep so
cocoon yourself in a beautiful color. Take your cues from
your favorite hotel rooms.
Don’t forget about a space
Multi-functional furniture is a life-saver for small spaces. It can that’s not used most of the Bathroom: Keep it simple. So if your floors are
double as a storage device or as a clever way of making the room time: under the bed. As patterned, maybe everything else should be white. Use
appear larger. Cascione explains:
glass, integrated vanities in the wall, and even mirrored
walls; it helps expand the room. But if you have a powder
“If you buy an ottoman or footstool for your sofa, consider buying one that also has “You could ask a carpenter to create you
the function of a container, so you have storage inside it,” explains Cascione. “Or buy a room then you can really have some fun. Do something
some bespoke designs with wheels that
table with a glass top; it serves as a table but at the same time the glass top enhances could be incorporated under your bed.
really wild – you know, do a fabulous wallpaper or some
the space in a room. Or maybe add curtains with vertical lines. That could help the Under the bed is a lot of space that is cool light. That’s where you can really make a statement
eye move up to the ceiling so make the space appear bigger.” just wasted!” and say, ‘Welcome’.

features features
Parents:
Be Realistic... Open Up
For any parents out there, they should
not forget the reality of sharing space
Your Space
with children. “For some reason a lot If at all possible, Wende Reid suggests
of my clients have lots of children; opening up the roof.
it’s sort of my specialty,” says Brett
Mickan. “And if you have lots of
children you have lots of clutter, so
you have to provide areas to put that
“The visual illusion of space is almost as good
as real space. So open it up as much as you can.
And make sure that sight lines are unobstructed Visualize
your
clutter away. You can’t pretend, ‘I have so if you do have barriers like kitchen benches …
four children but I’m a minimalist.’ make sure you can see over them. You then create
Because you’re not.” a sense of multiple use without breaking [the
space] up.”
ideal
To make small spaces work for families, Mickan
advises you designate areas where children can
place and store their belongings, or that you
don’t give them large open spaces “or giant
small
kitchen islands where everybody is going to
drop everything!”
space
Retain Unusual Wende Reid, director of interior
design firm Form and Colour,
Features describes her ultimate small space.
Mickan advises against removing

any unusual or period architectural
F
features.
or me, it would have a raked ceiling and it
“I like to respect the history of the architecture would have a lot of light – light, tall windows
so if there’s something original then, even if obviously open something up. (If you don’t have
it’s not in the greatest taste, I think you should a lot of light you can still create the illusion of it
make it a feature,” Mickan says. “Don’t strip it by, for example ... facing the inside of windows with a
out just because it doesn’t fit with what you’re reflective surface.)
doing at the moment. So you could paint
it neutral or paint it dark and then it would “But the ideal space would have skylights; it would have
recede into the space and become a beautiful high, tall windows; it would have an open floor plan;
textured backdrop.” it would have low, built-in, very comfortable seating
(maybe an L-shape sofa area); it would have a galley
kitchen with a bench in front of it and seating on one
side, work on the other, and a big wide cap at the end
with bookcases facing the living room.”

features features
Get Creative
With Storage
If you don’t have built-ins or simply need to
declutter, then seek out underused spaces
The small
in your home for storage.
“Under stairs is a really good place to put desks or

additional storage,” explains Wende Reid. “Also, above
space
the eye line is a place to store things. Again, if you can
open up the roof then you’ve got the idea of a raked
ceiling where you can stick things on the side that
architect
nobody even notices.
Don’t forget to look up. If you have a high ceiling, you

can use that vertical space for additional storage. With
HardieFlex Flooring, you can add a loft or an attic to get
the extra space that you need. Anna Hüppauf of Huppauf Chesterman
Architects specializes in inner-city,
heritage renovations.
H
ere the Sydney-based architect shares how she turned
a small dark terrace in Sydney’s inner-city suburb of
Camperdown into a light, clever three bedroom home –
all within council guidelines and to a tight budget.
The size: 3.5 meters across and 18 meters long. Tight!
Original layout: Two bedrooms with a very small

bathroom downstairs, a galley kitchen and a living room at the front.
Get Creative With New layout: A three bedroom house which retains the front
Bathroom Storage living room, has a new dining and kitchen area to the back and a
small courtyard to the rear. The first floor now has a large bedroom
to the rear and the original bedroom to the front plus a bathroom,
Storage is often a problem in the bathroom, while there is another bedroom upstairs.
believes Robert Parisi, director of bathroom
Consider Reflective Surfaces and kitchen specialists Robert Parisi Design,
with many vanities boasting just two drawers,
“The trick was relocating the stair,” Hüppauf says. “It originally ran
through the center of the house and by relocating it to the side wall we
were able to open up the site a lot more and utilize the attic space.”
Reflective surfaces like mirrors can work wonders in small both of which are full of plumbing.
spaces. Face storage with reflective surfaces and it literally Hüppauf also added horizontal slot windows on the first floor for eastern
“So I’m a big fan of shaving cabinets where you have light without heat gain and vertical windows at the rear of the home.
vanishes, have a mirror top on a coffee table and it too
some storage behind them and they’re mirrored
visually disappears.
and serve two purposes. They’re good storage and The look: From the front the house looks the same. At the side
very accessible but the mirror also makes the space it’s a modern box, clad in James Hardie’s external panel cladding.
But be wary of reflective surfaces at the eye line, warns Reid. “You really
feel larger and reflects light.”
don’t want to spend your life watching yourself; it’s like having two of
“We wanted to use lightweight partly because you gain space with
you in the room at all times. So make sure that if you do use the trick of it,” Hüppauf explains. “With veneer or double brick you would lose a
reflective surfaces that they’re above your eye line or at least above your lot of space on a very small site. Plus it is the modern interpretation
eye line when you’re sitting down.” of the weatherboard, essentially. It allows flexibility, it gives you the
fire rating and it beautifully gives you that vertical proportion.”

features cover story
Alta Veranda de Tibig:

Open Up!
It’s hard to say that it’s always the case that A Charming
Urban Escape
structural changes will improve a space. That
Declutter said, we live today in more open plan spaces
and obviously, to do that, you need to knock
Your out walls! “Knocking out some walls and
opening up spaces gives a feeling of more
Bathroom! spaciousness, a light and airy mood to the
space and that’s what we tend to enjoy today,”
Decluttering bathrooms helps says Robert Parisi.
them appear larger. Either hide
the toilet roll and toothbrushes or
keep them out of the initial eye
line, advises Parisi. “It’s how you
cleverly make these things fit into
their given spaces and ultimately
provide their function without
doing it in an ugly way that’s not
so nice on the eye,” he says.
When building your home, consider

HardieFlex Pro for your bathroom
walls. They take up less floor space
than traditional concrete hollow
block walls so you’ll have more room
for what matters – yourself!
For Larger Projects,

Seek Professional If we were to mix Filipino craftsmanship, Spanish
Advice charm and old world romance, we’d get Alta
Veranda de Tibig – a new events place that has
If you’re considering a larger renovation invest in some
professional advice, Reid says. “Get professional advice but undeniable character. While many event venues
make sure the advice you’re getting is thorough. It’s a big are going modern, Alta Veranda unashamedly
investment; you’ve got to live with it in a small space so make
sure it works for you and that you get a smooth, comfortable embraces the essence of times past.
environment to live in.”

cover story cover story
Alta Veranda is very different from

my other projects because this is
one is a ‘work-in-progress’ type
of an undertaking.”
— Arch. Norman R. Corbadura
I
n June 2014, Arch. Norman R. Corbadura was
approached by the owners of Alta Veranda
to help in the development of the project.
Located in Silang, Cavite, it is an events venue
with, so far, three structures set in a beautifully
landscaped plot of land. Located a just short
drive away from Nuvali, it’s perfect for events that
you want to celebrate in a magical venue without
going too far off the beaten path.
“Alta Veranda is very different from my other projects

because this is one is a ‘work-in-progress’ type of
an undertaking. Changes are expected – even
encouraged – even in last-minute executions. We
have to continually integrate new ideas, and at the
same time, maintain the overall design concept of
the project,” Corbadura said.
Thus far, “we already finished three major structures

covering an area of about 1,500 square meters,
as well as a garden. We’ve also landscaped areas
and paved roads covering 4,000 square meters,”
Corbadura said.

The construction of other structures,

such as a swimming pool and pavilion,
Corbadura, is a graduate of
are on-going.
Araullo High School (Batch
“I envisioned Alta Veranda to be a venue for
1985). He received his BS special gatherings, such as weddings and
Architecture degree from Mapua anniversaries. In designing Alta Veranda,
Institute of Technology (MIT) in I adhered to the concept of structure
1990. His wife, Ching Manrique, and space, giving emphasis to classical
is also an architect, and a
Filipino architecture – with balconies,
wide vistas and high ceilings. The owners
former classmate in MIT. They
and I exchanged stories about the places
have four children – Neil, Jake, we cherished during our childhood. Our
Nick, and Aliya. conversations led to the concepts of
‘lumang bahay’, ‘tabing ilog’, ‘bahay ni lolo’,
‘pawid’… The original design of the main
structure was that of a two-storey house
‘bahay na bato’ with a 60-square meter
footprint. During the actual construction,
For the ceilings, Corbadura used however, the owners and I continued to
strips of HardieFlex sheets creating talk and be inspired by our childhood
patterns that further enhance the memories, so the design slowly changed
Filipino-Spanish feel of the space. and evolved to what we have now,”
Corbadura said.

I decided on HardiePlank
Siding because it was
important to my design for
the external cladding material
to have the charm and
texture of wood.”
Despite its very traditional Filipino-Spanish

feel, Alta Veranda was built mostly via
lightweight construction – a relatively new
building method. This means that instead
of the usual walls made with plastered
concrete hollow blocks (CHB) reinforced with
steel bars, the builders utilized steel frames
lined on the inside with HardieFlex sheets,
and on the outside with HardiePlank Siding.
Corbadura chose HardieFlex sheets for

internal linings, and HardiePlank Siding
for external cladding because he believes
that they’re more economical than
conventional CHB walls. “They’re less labor
intensive, so they allow me to help my
client cut costs,” he said.
“I decided on HardiePlank Siding because it

was important to my design for the external
cladding material to have the charm and
texture of wood. However, I strongly urge
my clients against using real wood both
because it’s no longer sustainable practice,
and because real wood requires a lot of
maintenance,“ added Corbadura.
Alta Veranda is, indeed, a special place.

With its many beautiful features, it’s
hard to pick out a favorite. For Cobadura
though, the best feature is the grand
staircase of the main house. Greeting
guests as they enter through Alta Veranda’s
rustic gates, it’s a design feature that’s the
stuff of fairy tales. “It’s like a time machine
for me. When I was a boy, my friends and
I would jump from the top to the bottom
of our staircase. In hindsight, it wasn’t the
safest game, but I had a lot of fun. That was
years ago, but when I look at Alta Veranda’s
grand staircase, I’m taken back to those
cherished times,” he ended.

I decided on HardiePlank
Siding because it was
important to my design for
the external cladding material
to have the charm and
texture of wood.”

design spotlight design spotlight
Self-contained E
arlier this year, P.A. Properties
began the development of
NuVista San Jose on an over
Community
30 hectare tract of land in
Bulacan. The project is scheduled to be
completed in the next four years.
NuVista San Jose will be divided into five

enclaves: Crests, Hills, Heights, Knolls and
Lanes. P.A. Properties plans on having
A closer look at NuVista San Jose, which aims not
over 2,800 lots spread out among the five
only to provide excellent housing options, but enclaves.
also to be a self-contained community.
“We’re doing more than just building homes.
We’re providing our home buyers great
value for money by creating a masterfully
planned self-contained community where
residents will have everything they need
within easy reach.” said Romarico T. Alvarez,
Chairman of the Board of P.A. Properties.
Each NuVista San Jose enclave will

have its own multi-purpose clubhouse,
basketball court and children’s play

Making
a Home
A closer look at the work of
a pioneering architect.
area. A church will be built in the main

rotonda located at the center the of
development, and there is also space for
a commercial center and a school.
With simple and clean lines, the designs

for the homes in NuVista San Jose lean
towards modern aesthetics. To add texture
to the homes’, otherwise, plain facades, P.A.
Properties chose HardieFlex trims. It was
somewhat of a no-brainer since they were
“easy to install and, compared to other
decorative moldings and architectural
finishes, they were the cost-effective
choice,” said Alvarez.
For the interiors, P.A. Properties chose

HardieFlex walls and ceilings, and
HardieFlex Flooring for their lofted
units. “We use only the best quality
building products for our projects,
so that our customers have peace of
mind,” said Alvarez.

I’ve always liked the simple

lines of contemporary tropical
architecture. It is a more
suitable design for Philippine
conditions. I simply included
some green and sustainable
W
hen Architect Eric G. initiatives to the design to
Tinio started designing
his home, which he make it environment-friendly
began building last and energy-efficient.”
May 2012, he knew he wanted to
create a contemporary, sustainable — Arch. Eric G. Tinio
masterpiece.
“I’ve always liked the simple lines of

contemporary tropical architecture. It
is a more suitable design for Philippine
conditions. I simply included some green
and sustainable initiatives to the design
to make it environment-friendly and
energy-efficient,” Tinio said.
For instance, there is the “butterfly

roof” that drains rainwater to a collector
tank for reuse. The longer side of the
butterfly roof faces south for maximum
sun exposure of solar panels which Tinio
intends to install in the future.

I like to try new

construction methods and
building products from
reputable manufacturers.
James Hardie is a
company I trust.”
— Arch. Eric G. Tinio
For shading, the house has extended eaves, and passive cooling. This is similar to with specially treated HardieFlex sheets
and the windows have louvers at the south the wind towers commonly found in old covering both the interior and exterior
side – the direction that has the direct most Arabian houses. surfaces. With this method, I get walls
sun exposure. which are smoother and thinner than
For his home’s exterior cladding, Tinio conventional plastered concrete hollow
In the design, windows were also carefully chose James Hardie’s pre-primed external block walls. I used James Hardie’s external
positioned. There are big windows and panel. Despite the product not being panel for 90% of my exterior walls. I
a clerestory at the east side to maximize commercially available yet, Tinio, being the used stone cladding for the rest. My wife,
daylight. These are complemented by innovative architect that he is, decided to Architect Karen who designed the interiors
trellises to diffuse the amount of sunlight use it anyway. of our home, and I are very pleased with
that enters the building. There is a corner the results,” Tinio shared.
window at the northeast to catch the “I like to try new construction methods
Amihan breeze, while a stone-clad solid wall and building products from reputable The house occupies less than half of the
at the southwest corner protects the house manufacturers. James Hardie is a company lot area. “We only built what we actually
from the strong monsoon winds. I trust, so I felt comfortable using their need and the rest of the lot is a garden,”
external panels. My entire house was built Tinio said. He adds that, like any home, his
In addition, the house has an air well in using the Sterling wall system. This is a is a work in progress. But already, it’s one
the middle to allow for cross ventilation system that uses reinforced concrete walls to behold.
58 lookhome philippines volume 2 look home philippines volume 2 59

Well Designed,
Well Built
Pagsanjan-based designer and builder
Edison Buenviaje helps two sisters get
the home of their dreams.

T
wo overseas Filipino sisters
wanted to have a house built
for their parents in Pagsanjan,
Laguna, for them to show
how much they appreciate what their
parents did for them while they were
growing up. To do this, they sent Edison
Buenviaje of Buenviaje Design and Build
some house designs from an architect
in Dubai.
They recognized, of course, that both

designs required a lot of space, and a lot of
money to build, so they asked Buenviaje to
help them come up with a more affordable
and cost-efficient design for a house.

“I really wanted to help them out, so I
tried my best to come up with a design
that was both beautiful and affordable,”
Buenviaje said. “Fortunately, they liked my
work, and they asked me to start building
immediately.”

The clients chose a 100 square meter lot in
Pagsanjan, Laguna. Construction began in
July 2013. I really wanted to help them
out, so I tried my best to come
up with a design that was both
beautiful and affordable.”
— Edison Buenviaje

The accent wall

highlighting the staircase
is made up of strips of
HardieFlex 6mm boards.
I wanted to add a pop
of color to the space, so
I had the strips painted
a rich red to contrast
against the neutral wall.”
“We encountered some budget issues along I’ve been building homes for many easy to work with, so we’re able to save time
the way, which caused a bit of delay to the years, and I know that it requires a lot of and money on labor,” he said.
project, so we were able to complete the maintenance. I don’t want my clients to
two-storey house (only in) January 2014. My have to worry about these problems in “Another way I’m able to help my clients
clients were in Dubai the entire time, so I the future. They trust me with their hard- save money is by reducing wastage of
would regularly send them photos of the earned money, and I try hard not to let construction materials. For instance,
house while it was being built to show them them down,” he said. when I use one HardieFlex Pattern sheet
how the project was progressing.” for an accent wall, I usually need to cut
For this home, Buenviaje used HardieFlex the board to fit a certain size. I keep the
HardieFlex Pattern is prevalent in Buenviaje’s Pattern for baseboards, moldings, door parts that have been cut off and use
designs. “It’s a product I use very often because and window frames, and accent walls. them to make baseboards and moldings,”
it has a wood grain pattern that makes it look He also used HardieFlex 3.5mm sheets Buenviaje explained.
like natural wood. Since it’s made of fiber for the ceilings, HardieFlex 4.5mm sheets
cement though, it’s resistant to fire, termite and for the eaves, and HardieFlex Senepa. “I One look at this home’s praise-worthy
moisture damage. These are important features always recommend HardieFlex products staircase proves that being thrifty doesn’t
for me,” Buenviaje said. to my customers because they are translate to being boring. “The accent wall
very durable and can withstand the highlighting the staircase is made up of
“Wood gives instant character to spaces, but, Philippines’ harsh weather. They’re also strips of HardieFlex 6mm boards. I wanted
64 look home philippines volume 2 lookhome philippines volume 2 65

Modern
Discovering the appeal of
Sentosa and Santa Rosa Hills
by Suntrust Properties Inc.
When I build a house

Design
for a client, I make sure
to use only high quality
materials. I don’t want
to put my reputation at
stake by using cheaper
alternatives. I really put
my heart into my work.
Every house I build, I
treat as if it were my
own home.”
to add a pop of color to the space,

so I had the strips painted a rich red
to contrast against the neutral wall,”
Buenviaje said.

Buenviaje admits that there are
cheaper fiber cement boards. “But
my clients’ welfare and the quality
of my work are my foremost
concerns. I’ve experimented with
other brands in the past, and in my
experience, James Hardie products,
like HardieFlex sheets, are better than
other fiber cement boards,” he said.
“When I build a house for a client, I
make sure to use only high quality
materials. I don’t want to put my
reputation at stake by using cheaper
alternatives. I really put my heart into
my work. Every house I build, I treat
as if it were my own home.”
And for the sisters working abroad,

this is more than they asked for.

We strive to provide more housing

options to our customers. We do
not want to keep dishing out the
same designs.”
— Isaias D. Berdin Jr.
L
ooking at recent developments, Hills, we got inspiration from new
it is obvious that Filipinos’ buildings in Singapore, Malaysia and
aesthetics and tastes have from our other Asian neighbors. We want
evolved to include more our customers to have the best that we
modern, streamlined styles. In the can offer,” said Isaias D. Berdin Jr., VP for
past, Spanish and Mediterranean were Operations, Planning and Design Group
the more dominant themes for houses, of Suntrust Properties.
and while we still see those influences
in today’s homes, the shift to modern And speaking of the best, Suntrust
Asian design is very clear. Properties also makes it a point to use only
the best building products. “We are selective
Sensing this shift, Suntrust Properties when it comes to building products. We
developed two communities in Laguna: only work with brands that we trust and
Sentosa and Santa Rosa Hills. have tried and tested throughout the years.
We’re not just in the business of selling
“We strive to provide more housing houses. We sell homes, and we want our
options to our customers. We do not customers to have homes built with high
want to keep dishing out the same quality products so that they have peace of
designs, so for Sentosa and Sta. Rosa mind,” stated Berdin.

design spotlight
We sell homes, and we want our customers

to have homes built with high quality
products so that they have peace of mind.”

On a High
Cebu-based Architect Jose Mari Canizares
creates the epitome of contemporary
tropical architecture
T
he idea, said Architect Jose Mari Completing the project proved
Canizares, was to come up with challenging because of the different
something that is local, thereby contexts of the architect and the
tropical, and yet contemporary. clients. “The challenge was in blending
the expectations, since construction
“We had a brief from our clients, who are methodologies in the Philippines are
US-based Filipinos,” Canizares recalled. totally different from practices in the US,”
That brief was – in a gist – to build Canizares said.
something memorable on a 380 square
meter floor area in Silver Hills, Cebu City. With the challenges surpassed, though, the
Canizares’ response was to build a home project was finally completed. Now, Silver
with a modern tropical design aesthetic. Hills in Cebu City boasts of a property
that is emblematic of modern tropical
For this project, HardieFlex ceilings were architecture.
used throughout the house because “we
trusted that the product would fulfill our
stringent requirements.”
We don’t just focus on the cost of the building

products we work with; but we also look at the
The ceilings, eaves and wall partitions in both long-term impact of our choices on the people who
Sentosa and Santa Rosa Hills were made are actually going to live in the homes that we build.”
using HardieFlex sheets while HardieFlex
Senepa was used for all the fascia boards. “In
keeping with our goal of providing peace
of mind to our customers, we have chosen
these products from James Hardie because
they are very durable and require very little
maintenance. They are resistant to damage
caused by termites and moisture, which are
two of the biggest problems homeowners
are often faced with”, added Berdin.
Their choice of building products is rooted

in Suntrust’s understanding of the needs of
Filipino homeowners, and in their sincere
desire to fulfill these needs. “We don’t just
focus on the cost of the building products
we work with,” said Berdin. “We also look at
the long-term impact of our choices on the
people who are actually going to live in the
homes that we build.”

For this project, HardieFlex ceilings

were used throughout the house
because we trusted that the product
would fulfill our stringent requirements.
— Arch. Jose Mari Canizares

The challenge was in blending

the expectations, since
construction methodologies in
the Philippines are totally different
from practices in the US.”
— Arch. Jose Mari Canizares

Living in Style
LookHOME takes a closer look at
Victoria Ville, a fast-growing housing
development in Cavite
I
n 2009, EVY Construction and According to Olavario, there are two design
Development Corporation started aesthetics for the properties in Victoria Ville.
developing the first phase of Phases 1 and 2 are inspired by Victorian
Victoria Ville in Panapaan III, architecture, while phases 3 and 4 have Zen-
Bacoor, Cavite. The development inspired minimalist homes.
proved a success, so that fast forward
five years later, phase 4 is already in “Victoria Ville is unique in that it is the only
progress. subdivision outside of Metro Manila that
is 10 minutes away from SM Mall of Asia,”
“We started this residential development Olavario said. “It is only 15 minutes from NAIA
in response to the need of Caviteños for and from Ayala Alabang.”
more housing options,” said Architect Lloyd
Yurick P. Olavario, in-house architect of EVY In the development of Victoria Ville,
Construction and Development Corporation. EVY Construction and Development

Corporation made use of HardieFlex EVY Construction and Development

3.5mm for ceilings, HardieFlex 4.5mm for
eaves, and HardieFlex Senepa. Corporation has been using James
Hardie products for years now,
“EVY Construction and Development
Corporation has been using James and we’ve never encountered any
Hardie products for years now, and problems.”
we’ve never encountered any problems,”
Olavario said. — Arch. Lloyd Yurick P. Olavario
“The quality of HardieFlex products is

exceptional. In the house specifications
sheets that we distribute to potential
clients, we say that Victoria Ville’s homes
have HardieFlex ceilings. We feel that this
increases the customers’ confidence in
our homes.”

design spotlight
Design
Wonder
Architect Jemma Sarol-Semaña takes
us through her design process.
I
n 2009, Architect Jemma Sarol-Semaña, principal
architect of Cagayan de Oro-based Jemma Sarol-
Semaña Architects and Associates, was asked to
design a house.
According to Sarol-Semaña, although she was given the

freedom to design the space and the house’s façade, “I
We recommend HardieFlex 4.5mm to those who needed to know the family’s lifestyle, routines, hobbies, etc.”
This is because Sarol-Semaña believes that personalizing her
want to put up partitions because they are highly designs to fit her clients’ needs is important.
durable and easy to find. HardieFlex products
are available in most hardware stores. Victoria
Ville residents won’t have a hard time looking for
this product.” — Arch. Lloyd Yurick P. Olavario
Also, although the company turns

over the units bare to its clients, “we
recommend HardieFlex 4.5mm to those
who want to put up partitions because
they are highly durable and easy to
find. HardieFlex products are available
in most hardware stores. Victoria Ville
residents won’t have a hard time looking
for this product,” Olavario said.
EVY Construction and Development

Corporation also distributes various
building products, “so we can say that
we’re knowledgeable when it comes
to construction supplies. We’ve been
selling and using a lot of different
building products over the many years
that we have been in business. Our trust
and confidence in the HardieFlex brand
continue to grow,” Olavario ended.

“I ask my clients what style or design

they want for their homes. From
there, I create and combine spaces
according to their requirements
and preferences,” Sarol-Semaña
said. “It is very important for me in
designing houses, that it should
be customized for the family’s use.
Interviewing the family is the first
thing I do before I design. The
relationship between spaces
in a house is the core part. I
develop the floor plan based
on their way of living.”
It took a year and a half for

Sarol-Semaña to complete
the house, and the owners
are very happy with how
it turned out.
It is very important for me in designing

houses, that it should be customized for
the family’s use. Interviewing the family
is the first thing I do before I design. The
relationship between spaces in a house
is the core part. I develop the floor plan
based on their way of living.”
— Sarol-Semaña

For this project, Sarol-Semaña used the

HardieFlex sheets for the ceilings, eaves and
interior partitions. “I use HardieFlex sheets
for my projects because I trust in the quality
of these products. Ever since I started my
practice years ago, I’ve used HardieFlex fiber
cement boards in all my projects whether
they be big or small in scale. HardieFlex is
very reliable. In the Philippines, termites
are rampant. That HardieFlex products are
resistant to termite damage is one of the
main reasons I recommend them to my
clients,” she said.
It wasn’t always smooth sailing though.

Several years ago, Sarol-Semaña had
difficulty getting her customers to accept
the product. “When James Hardie first
introduced HardieFlex in the country,
there were those who didn’t want to use
it because they thought that it contained
asbestos. In order to convince them
otherwise, I asked for the company to
That HardieFlex products are resistant to

termite damage is one of the main reasons
I recommend them to my clients.”
— Sarol-Semaña

design spotlight
Perfectly
A design that is customized to
your needs and wants makes all
the difference between a house
and a home” — Sarol-Semaña
at Home
CDO-based Architect Maria Linda Escaba of ML
ESCABA Architectural Planning and Design has
been in the industry for over 20 years now,
but she shows no sign of stopping, as she
showcases one of her projects.
provide me a certification
proving that all HardieFlex
products are asbestos free,” said
Sarol-Semaña. James Hardie
provided the certification,
and has gained the trust of
architects and design experts.
Asked to share tips with people

who are planning on having
their first house built, Sarol-
Semaña said, “make sure the
house fits your lifestyle. The
floor plan is crucial. The floor
plan is like a puzzle, that once
it’s solved, everything will
follow smoothly. A design
that is customized to your
needs and wants makes all the
difference between a house
and a home.”

I
n 2008, a couple (both doctors) with a
10-year-old daughter and a five-year-
old son approached Architect Maria
Linda E. Escaba to ask her to design a
home for their young family.
Escaba decided to come up with

something contemporary while taking
advantage of the property’s location.
She made use of the natural terrain of
the lot, and oriented windows such that
the residents would be able to enjoy the
scenery across the Cagayan River: the
Convention Center and the beautiful hills
of Taguanao.


Hatley Residence:
The Unbuildable Site
T
Escaba made good use of the space, building area, which is adjacent to the large kitchen. members are meant to gather. All rooms are
here’s a well-known adage that
a two-storey property. The carport is located Occupying a quarter of the level where it’s oriented such that they each have a scenic
anything good is worth fighting
on the lower ground floor, which has a on, the size of the kitchen is indicative of the view of the river.
for, and Todd Hatley appears to be
service staircase leading to the upper ground queen of the house’s love for culinary arts.
a man who believes it. A builder
level. Before approaching the main door, Because she wanted to minimize potential
by trade, Todd found the perfect site for
one has to take the walled steps clad with Large windows adorn the walls of the house, problems from termite infestation, Escaba
his new family home - a leafy section
crazy-cut Ara-al stones leading to the main taking advantage of the view, and the used HardieFlex ceilings throughout the
overlooking a reserve on a cliff looking
porch entry. Upon entering the foyer, the natural light and ventilation. two-storey residence. It has been almost
out to the Hauraki Gulf on the North Island
eyes are led above towards the hallway on 5 years since the project was completed,
of New Zealand. Unfortunately, it was too
the second level. The bedrooms are on the second level. An and the owners are happy to report that
leafy, and a large tree stood firm in the way
entertainment-study area is located at the their ceilings are termite-free and in good
of Todd getting the home he wanted.
The living room opens towards the dining center of this floor as it is where family condition.

Todd’s brief to architectural draftsman Garth

Kennedy was for ‘a modern-day beach
house’. Problem was, anecdotal evidence
showed that others before Todd had tried to
build on the site, but to no avail. The general
architectural consensus was that the site
was ‘unbuildable’, largely due to the big tree.
Luckily for Todd, Garth doesn’t subscribe
to the general consensus. He put together
plans that would conform to the site while
still staying true to Todd’s desire for a
weatherboard house with a tin roof. Because
Todd had trouble with pine weatherboards
in the past, and with the new house being
so close to the sea, he opted for James
Hardie’s plank siding.
Todd also wanted to take a fresh approach

to color and break away from the rest of
the street, which uses a predominantly
grey, white and beige color palette. He
wanted something punchy, like an orange
door juxtaposed against dark colors, and
James Hardie’s plank siding was the only
product that would allow him to use dark
colors without the danger of warping from
heat absorption.

Garth’s design, resulted in a house of some

285 square meter with four bedrooms and
four-car garage that worked very well for
Todd and his wife and child.
After what was a fairly daunting start, the

actual building process went off without
a hitch, not surprising given Todd’s
expertise and experience. If he wasn’t
before, he is certainly now a convert to
building with James Hardie products,
and thanks to James Hardie’s plank
siding which is highly durable and low
maintenance, repairing and repainting
the exterior of the house will be one
chore he can cross off the weekend to-do
list for the next 15 years.

features
T 2
rends can be fleeting fads or signal FIND YOUR TRUE COLORS Complete the following assignment,
long-term shifts. They can, in retrospect which Swinbourne often gives to her
at least, be judged as exciting or Being told to identify your ‘natural palette’ design students.
embarrassing. So while it’s smart to is all very well, but how do you go about
be aware of what is in fashion, especially if it? Swinbourne suggests the following Leaf through some high quality glossy
achieving a contemporary look is important exercises. publications (not interior design magazines).
to you, it’s rarely a good decision to embrace Pull out six images where you are attracted to
1
trends that clash with your sense of style. Take a walk through your house, look in the colors.
your wardrobe and see what colors you
“Whatever is happening with the world at are drawn to. Tear them, shred them, cut them, overlap them,
that time, it’s reflected in how we dress and and paste them together. (Don’t think about
decorate,” says Di Swinbourne, Head of Design “We tend to surround ourselves with colors it too much. This is not art.) Take it into your
at Sydney Design School. that reflect our complexion, that look good renovating space. Look at your collage and
with our natural coloring,” Swinbourne focus on a little section where you can see that
Whether you’re renovating or buying clothes, observes. “So people who are very dark tend palette working in that space.
Di’s advice when it comes to color choice is to like black and white and splashes of red
not to overly be swayed by what’s fashionable. and hot colors. Whereas people who are Study that section and pull out precisely the
Rather, she advises, pick colors you like and blond and blue-eyed tend to go for greyed, colors that you’ve used. Once you’ve discovered
which reflect who you are. more subtle colors.” your color palette, it’s time to get to work.
“You might have white walls and your

palette may provide the jewels of color for
Being trendy is fine, but following what’s popular furnishings and pillows,” Swinbourne says.
need not clash with personal preferences. Here’s “With pops of color like this, your neutrals
such as whites and blacks and greys and
a guide on how to pick colors that are not only in
wood tones are really important to ground
fashion, but that also fit your personal style. the colors you pick.”
Embrace
Your Taste

Look Home Vol 2

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WHAT’S INSIDE

16 The Making of Energy

33 Big Ideas for Small Spaces

100 Embrace Your Taste

lookhome philippines volume 2 1

9 22 Straight from the

61 Well Designed & Built

2 lookhome philippines volume 2 lookhome philippines volume 2 3

Now what do all these mean to us, plain urban dwellers?

89 Perfectly at Home Happy reading!

CDO-based Architect Maria Linda Escaba of ML Escaba

95 The Unbuildable Site

Wilcon’s Top Ten

playing with a sofa set, or just leave it

with prints you’ve got a winner!

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These are new times when extremes are fast

As Jim Yong Kim, president of the World

Efforts to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions are

But while the presence of green properties is

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significantly enhance home comfort with

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Energy Efficient Homes:

WHY IT MATTERS WHY IT MATTERS

• Consider heat-reflecting windows WORKING WITH EAVES

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UNDERSTANDING HEAT TRANSFER

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Getting up close and

It is this dynamism that is apparent in the works

Gan finished his Bachelor of Science in

Gan’s associates consist of 50 architects, interior

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“Generally, a good architect will try to get to know the

The types of materials

Home Building Tips For significant impact on

The Budget Conscious essential to settle this

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The Budget-Conscious invest in a well-built quality sofa in a neutral color

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DARCEN synonymous with putting up with small

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Disguise Your Storage Plan, Plan, Plan

Built-ins are a massive help in small spaces, agrees Ascanio Cascione,

Change How You See Color

Put Your Sofa On Legs

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Don’t Forget Bedroom: When you have an apartment more often

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Mickan advises against removing

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“Under stairs is a really good place to put desks or

Don’t forget to look up. If you have a high ceiling, you

The size: 3.5 meters across and 18 meters long. Tight!

Original layout: Two bedrooms with a very small

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Alta Veranda de Tibig:

When building your home, consider

For Larger Projects,