History of Architecture 4
Module 1: Orientation and
Introduction to History of
Architecture 4
Ar. Marites G. Balmas, MSCM, REB, REA
Week 1
Module 1: Orientation and Introduction to
History of Architecture 4 (Synchronous)
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
At the end of the module, the students shall be able to:
LO 01 :
Understand the Purpose of and importance of History of
Architecture on the practice of the profession.
DISCUSSIONS
− Introduction to the Course
− Brief introduction to historical appreciation of architecture
− Distribution of Syllabus and Discussion of Class Requirements
− Student Introduction
COURSE MATERIALS
1. Course Syllabus
2. PUP Student Handbook
The term “vernacular” is often equated with things endemic and
indigenous to a specific place and context
The following questions were posed:
How and why was the idea of the vernacular used in articulating
Philippine national identity in modern architecture?
What were the similarities and differences of concepts of
vernacularization in architecture by different agents throughout
twentieth-century Philippines?
And what are the implications of these strategies in the debates
on the production of architecture and identity?
In coming to terms with modernity and nationalism in
architecture, using the idea of “vernacular” is not an
unproblematic and neutral strategy, but rather, that
vernacularization in modern architecture is a highly politicized
and biased operation.
Key Themes in Arkitekturang Filipino by
Gerald Lico
Architecture as a Socio-Cultural Artifact
•Buildings reflect the values, beliefs, and aspirations of
different periods.
•Indigenous, colonial, and modern architecture respond to
climatic, cultural, and political contexts.
B. Urbanism and Colonialism
•Urban design changed due to Spanish reduction policy,
American modernization, and Japanese wartime occupation.
•Modernization and globalization further reshaped Filipino
identity in architecture.
C. The Continuum of Filipino Architecture
•Gerald Lico argues that Filipino architecture is not linear but
cyclical, constantly borrowing, adapting, and innovating.
Historical Periods of Philippine
Architecture
1. Pre-Colonial Architecture
Indigenous Building Traditions
Bahay Kubo (lowlands) and Bahay Kalinga (highlands) as
examples of vernacular architecture. Communal spaces such as
the datu’s house, torogan (Maranao), and bale (Ifugao).
Materials & Techniques
Use of bamboo, nipa, rattan, and timber suited for tropical
climate. Elevated structures for protection against floods and
pests.
2. Spanish Colonial Architecture (1521–
1898)
Reducción System & Urban Planning
The Laws of the Indies structured settlements into plaza complex models.
Development of towns centered around the church, municipal hall, and plaza.
Baroque Churches
Massive stone churches with earthquake-resistant designs (earthquake
baroque).
Example: San Agustin Church in Manila (UNESCO Heritage Site).
Bahay na Bato
Evolution of the bahay kubo into the bahay na bato with stone ground floors
and wooden upper floors.
Influences from Chinese, Spanish, and local architectural elements.
3. American Period (1898–1946)
City Beautiful Movement & Urban Planning
Daniel Burnham’s plan for Manila and Baguio emphasized wide roads and civic
spaces.
Neoclassical and Art Deco Architecture
Government buildings like the Manila Central Post Office and National Museum.
Art Deco theaters such as the Manila Metropolitan Theater.
Educational and Institutional Buildings
The introduction of American school buildings with gabaldon-type designs.
4. Japanese Occupation (1941–1945)
Wartime Destruction & Reconstruction
Bombing of Manila and loss of significant colonial architecture.
Temporary structures and adaptation to wartime conditions.
5. Post-War and Modern Architecture
(1946–Present)
International Style & Brutalism
Use of concrete and glass in government buildings and
institutions.
Example: The CCP Complex designed by Leandro Locsin
(Brutalist style).
Postmodernism & Contemporary Trends
Fusion of vernacular elements with modern materials.
Sustainable architecture and green design.
References
[Link]
[Link]/architecture/civic/vernacularization-philippine-
modern-architecture-1/?utm_source=[Link]
Philippine Architecture in the 20th Century by Manahan,
Geronimo V.
Arkitekturang Filipino: A History of Architecture and Urbanism in
the Philippines. by Lico, Gerald Phd
LEARNING ACTIVITIES
(ASYNCHRONOUS)
Activity 01: Essay (Diagnostic)
Write a reflection about “learnings from your previous history of
architecture subjects that help you understand the importance of
the field”. Please focus on your ideas and opinions relative to the
given topic and do not discuss anything that is not necessary.
Discuss your answer in not less than 600 words. Write in a short
bond paper size, using Times New Roman font, no. 11, 1.5
spacing. Use a normal margin. Use the header, then, write your
name, year & section, subject, and professor. Write these in all
CAPITAL letters.
Rubrics/Grading Criteria:
HOMEWORK: (ASYNCHRONOUS)
Homework 01: Document Review/Reaction Paper
Conduct a thorough review on Mulder, N. (1994). Filipino Culture
and Social Analysis. Philippine Studies, 42(1), 80-90. Retrieved
October 6, 2020, from [Link]
Discuss your thoughts in not less than 600 words. Write in a
short bond paper size, using Times New Roman font, no. 11, 1.5
spacing. Use a normal margin. Use the header, then, write your
name, year & section, subject, and professor. Write these in all
CAPITAL letters.
Rubrics/Grading Criteria:
Thank you
Ar. Marites G. Balmas
mgbalmas@[Link]
