Manifestizo

Architecture to me, from all the things it could be, is change. It is a form of evolution. The only thing constant in this world is change and change is the epitome of architecture. Process and design nowadays is different of those from ancient history. Actually, even ten years ago, we approached buildings differently. Through the use of technology, designing has become easy for architects. The design of the 90’s is different from what we consider “acceptable” nowadays. That is why I believe Architecture is the constant evolution of the human race.

It is not easy to please people, especially with architecture. We have a trait in us where we must always look for the better means of living. That’s what sets us apart from animals, our instincts and desire for continuity of our race. I believe architecture is vital because it provides shelter. That is also another meaning for architecture that I truly believe. Above all other characteristics, it is a form of shelter. Without architecture in a shelter sense, we wouldn’t be where we are now. Shelter is essential because without it, we would have no place to work, sleep and live.

When it comes to architecture, I only seek approval of two people. Yes, that may sound stubborn and headstrong, but to truly leave your mark in the world today, you must stand by what you believe. The first of the two people is the client. I seek approval from the client because it is for him. My goal is to satisfy all my clients’ needs, but while doing so, I will have implemented my touch and design. The 2nd approval I seek is from me. If a client is telling to me to build out of my design, out of my comfort zone, I’d be quick to decline (Unless it is some big shot client, in which case I would take a long time to consider.). If I go out of my design, then I’d be lying to myself. I wouldn’t be the person I studied to be. All the hours spent on making my name through my designs would be lost. That is why it is principle for me to always stand up for my design. I am my design, and my design is who I am. There is a famous quote that I strongly live by, as should every other architect. It goes “Be yourself and speak your mind because those who care don’t matter and those who matter don’t care” – Dr. Seuss.

Having grown up in a family that appreciates the Earth, one of my main designs is to revolve around the world. I find that Eco-Friendly designs will be not only the next big thing in the future, but it will also send out a message. We only have one world, so we should be able to build on it with out destroying it. Better yet, we should be able to build within it. For my designs, I aim to have a sense or a fusion of the environment into the building.

Another design I find intriguing is minimalism. Not only is less material used, but it shows that beauty can still be obtained through simplicity and space. What catches my attention with minimalism is the use of space. It does not require all those ornaments to make it stand out. I envision that my designs will be clean cut. No ornaments or unnecessary pieces will be seen. Every piece of material will have a reason to be put there. Minimalism is pleasing to the eye, and in a world where we are faced with the problem of resources, I believe that minimalism is not only beautiful, but essential.

I find the use of ornaments disgusting. While observing one of our greatest churches in the Philippines, I saw that it lacked an identity. The San Agustin Church was known for its beauty and sturdiness having survived the test of time and war. However, just like Filipinos, it was lost. A church born from Spanish architects displayed four Chinese dragons by the entrance. Upon further observation, I saw that the columns that covered the façade held nothing. It was there just for design, having no purpose but to make it look more baroque. This is why I don’t need ornaments. Buildings have the capability of being beautiful. Removing those Chinese dragons would have given the church more of an identity than it would “design”.

I know that I will come across plenty of people that will challenge my designs. Honestly, that excites me. Criticism is a chance to build and improve my talents. If I wanted to hear about all the good of my designs, I would go to my family members and confide in them. I see those critics as stepping-stones to greater things. As I witnessed during my Thedes2 class, Sir AJ continually challenged and poked at the design philosophies and manifesto of my colleagues. It was not done in spite, but more so on improving and defending their philosophy and manifesto. It was a preparation of what our lives, as an architect will look like in the future. Debates, rebuttals, and clashing ideas are all apart of life.

I do have two designs to choose from, and I believe I fit into both categories. Fusing those two designs would be a challenge, but that is what life is. My colleagues probably wrote the same thing that I did, but I believe that I have what it takes (I am not saying that they don’t.). I want it. I want it more than they do. They may have better designs, but that doesn’t matter to me. As long as I please my client, and myself and I do it to the best of my ability, then I am happy. Everyday, every plate, model, blueprint, lecture and discourse, I will see it fit that I will learn and build not only my skills in the architecture field, but also form an identity of my own.