Architectural Heritage Museum

Architectural Heritage Museum: An Adaptive Reuse
Villegas cor. Lopez St, Ermita, Manila
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CHAPTER 1.0
INTRODUCTION
1.1
Background/Overview of the problem
Each country has their own cultural heritage. These can be anything like artworks,
books, historical monuments, shrine and structures (Franchi, n.d.). These are considered
as testaments of what a country has went through over course of time. Archeological site
and historical monuments and structures, in particular, can be considered as markers of
the different period in history. The Parthenon is an example of what the Greeks has
contributed to the world of Architecture and it is still where it was built today because it
was something that defined the past of Greece. For the French, the famous Arc de
Triomphe was the proof of their victory during the Napoleonic wars (Arc de Triomphe
Paris, n.d.). It mirrored the past and one of the most significant time for France. These are
just examples of the importance of historical structures and monuments around the world.
The Philippines, after a long time of oppression from the Spaniards, the coming of the
Americans, and the four years under the Japanese occupation, has developed throughout
the years. The culture developed by the natives and influence brought by the foreign
invaders shaped the nation the Philippines is today. With historical structures scattered all
over the archipelago, it can be said that the Philippines does have a rich Architectural
Heritage. And Manila, being the capital of the country, has its fair share of Architectural
gems. The Legislative Building (now the National Library, the Post Office, the walled
city of Intramuros and the Manila Cathedral are just some of the structures that are
historically significant. There are laws concerning these national treasures like the
Presidential Decree No. 206 which states that the National Historic Commission (NHC)
would be responsible for the protection and preservation of the historical structures.
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(Presidential Decree No. 206, 1973) The Presidential Decree No. 1505, on the other hand,
states that the responsibilities of the National Historic Commission is transferred to the
National Historical Institute (NHI) in collaboration with the Department of Tourism
(DOT). The National Historical Institute was vested the right to preserve, restore and
reconstruct several historical sites and landmarks (PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 1505,
1978). Republic Act No. 10066, otherwise known as The National Cultural Heritage Act
of 2009, is also an act that provide protection and conservation of cultural heritage
(Republic Act No. 10066, 2009).
Unfortunately, not all of the historical structures are preserved. The Jai-alai building
was demolished to make way for what was supposed to be Manila Hall of Justice but it
was never been built (Villalon T. , 2012).
The old GSIS headquarters can be considered as one of the heritage establishments in
Manila. Designed by Federico Ilustre, it is an example of neoclassical and modern style of
Architecture. It was built in 1952 and is only used as a parking lot today. It is a waste of a
beautiful building and could be revived by re-purposing it. As mentioned earlier, the
building is still a significant landmark of the past and shows the progress of Manila. In that
way, the next generations would be able to experience the rich heritage of our country.
That is why the project entitled Architectural Heritage Museum: An Adaptive Reuse is proposed. The project is located in Villegas cor. Lopez St. in Ermita, Manila. As
stated earlier, it is all about the re-purposing of the Old GSIS headquarters and turning it
into a museum that would showcase the rich architectural heritage of our country. The
client of the said project is the Heritage Conservation Society represented by Ivan Anthony
S. Henares, the current president. The first reason in proposing this project is to save an
architectural heritage by re-purposing it into a museum so that the building could once
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again be useful and functioning. Another reason is to provide an establishment that would
patronize the Philippines most outstanding architects and their works. This would also act
as a shrine for the said architects and their legacy. Lastly, it is to create a building that
would be suitable for educational field trips and act as an additional tourist destination in
Manila.
The project would also include features like different halls that are dedicated for
selected excellent architects who contributed in the history of architecture in the
Philippines. The client would also like to include some assembly halls that would allow
seminars and audio-visual presentations.
There would be approximately one thousand (1,000) users. The budget of the project
is approximately 2 Billion to 3 Billion Pesos and will be funded by the Heritage
Conservation Society.
With the completion of this project, many generations would still be able to appreciate
the architectural heritage of our country.
1.2
Statement of the problem

Over time, many of our heritage buildings and monuments have already been
disrespected, neglected, and worse, torn down just to give way for new developments. One
of the disregarded historical jewel that was torn down recently was the 50 year old
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Meralco building. Designed by Juan Arellano, it was clearly significant to our history.
Other than the fact that it was designed by one of our renowned architect, it also features
the style Art deco and its faade had the sculpture called Furies by an Italian sculptor,
Francesco Riccadro Monti. Still, it was brought down. Three years ago, the Lateral
Apartments was bought by the University of the East to turn it into a building for one of
their colleges. Like the Meralco building it also features the Art deco style which
flourished during the pre-war era. Today, we have our own issue concerning the Torre de
Manila which disrespects the monument of our own national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal. The said
building is in violation of the Republic Act 10066. It is practically ruining the vista of the
Rizal Park and the monument itself. The GSIS building in Manila is also a victim of
building abandonment. Though it doesnt have a big impact in the history, it is still
considered significant since it is designed by Federico Ilustre, the same architect of the
Quezon Memorial Monument and the Manila International Airport. Today, the GSIS
building is used only as a parking lot. These are just some examples of the negligence and
disrespect our people does regarding our national treasures and our own heritage. This
issue raises one question, how will the people be educated in terms of the importance of
our Architectural Heritage?
Major Problem
With so many people ignorant of the importance of our history and heritage, it
is not surprising that we are losing our heritage buildings and monuments as time goes by.
We are taught as children to love our country and to support our own. Yet, the community
seem to set this aside. This issue leads to the major problem which is how would the
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project be able to make the people aware of the importance of the architecture of the past
and how would reusing the old GSIS building be able to make a statement about the
importance of the Philippines Heritage Jewels?
Minor Problems
What planning or design strategies for the museum would effectively enhance
the users learning experience?

What design principle would be applied to heighten the awareness of the rich
architectural heritage?
What are the process to be taken into consideration in reusing the old GSIS
building with regards to the safety of the users?

What are the techniques to be used in preserving the architectural integrity of
the GSIS building?

How will the design address the existing conditions of the site in relation to
effective learning of the users?
1.3
Architectural Goal and Objectives

Architectural Goal
The project is envisioned to be an establishment that would help the awareness of
people on the importance of the history of Architecture in the Philippines. It also aims to
preserve a national heritage which is the abandoned GSIS building. With this approach, the
project will be able to provide a more functional and useful building that would cater to the
community. The development also aims to give a suitable design for an architectural museum
that could be a basis of same projects in the future. It will also focus on creating a
comfortable environment for the users.
Objectives/Strategies

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The output of the planning and design that are be considered in the process of
designing should be of help to the best learning experience of the users.
o Proper planning for the circulation will be of great help for the users
learning experience. This could be achieved in considering the psychology
of how people perceive directions and with the use of lighting technology
as aid for showing the right direction.
o The arrangement of the displays and exhibits shall also be taken to
consideration so that the information would not be random and could be
easily digested.
The exhibits and displays of the museum should be able to have a positive effect on the
users and should be able relay the principle of the project.
o Use of interactive displays could help the users learn better.
o Incorporation of technologies like the use of lights and sounds in
presenting the exhibits.
Being a building over 60 years old, the old GSIS building is posing a great risk and
should be taken to consideration when it comes to planning for the safety and security
of the users.
o Installing less machineries to the building would help it be safer for its users.
o Installing new engineering technologies such as shock-crete so as to make
the building structurally reliable.

The GSIS building should be able to keep its architectural integrity to exemplify the
projects advocacy better.

Incorporating of new elements in the buildings faade shall blend with the existing
character of the building.

Consideration of the used architectural style in the building so as to recognize the best
elements that could be incorporated in the old building.

The project should be a place that is conducive to learning of the users who would be
visiting the museum.
o The site has current conditions that could affect the process of learning of the
users such as the noise coming from the outside. This could be answered by
considering soundproofing technologies both traditional and improvements.
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1.4 Significance of the Research

Significance to Architecture
The project that serves as an Architectural Heritage Museum will be able to contribute to
the field of Architecture by establishing a template that would be helpful in the future
developments such as this one. The new techniques and innovative technology used in the
process of designing the establishment would also be helpful to the Architecture community.
The architects, through this project, would be able to relive the past styles of architecture and
could also be their reference in incorporating the past styles in their own designs. Both the
professional architects and aspirants would also benefit from the project by experiencing the
architecture from the past instead of just reading about it in books. Both will have the benefit
of picking up styles and techniques that were used in the past. Lastly, through this book, the
aspirants would have a reference for projects that are in line with the Architectural Heritage
Museum.
Significance to Community
This project would help the community by helping it be aware of the importance of the
remaining historical buildings in our country. It could make the people be more educated in
maintaining and preserving our history and what is left of the past. Through the exhibits,
people would also realize how much have things change and can give them a sense of relating
the past to the present. The project can also be considered as one of the citys attraction along
with the other museums that showcases different area of interest. As another tourist attraction,
this could also boost the economy.

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1.5 Review of Related Literature

Historical and Heritage awareness of the Filipinos
One of the Filipino quality that we are proud of is being patriotic which would
explain why we have a lot of heroes from the past. We have a very vast customs and
culture that we still use up to this day. The concept of bayanihan for example. Its not
practiced today like how it was practiced back in the day but the thought of the custom is
still present in the modern days. The practice of helping each other out. Today, some of
our provinces and local government are initiating programs that will help the historical
awareness of the community. The National Historical Commission of the Philippines
(NHCP), the Department of Education (DepEd), the Department of the Interior and Local
Government (DILG) and the Department of Tourism (DOT), for example, has teamed up
in helping the Filipino students of being aware and knowledgeable of the rich history and
culture. The Department of Education (DepEd), through Education Secretary Armin
Luistro, had issued the recent 2014 Conduct of National Observances and
Commemoration of Historical Events to both public and private schools in the country.
According to Mr. Luistro, the activity will be a tool for the young students to instill in
their hearts the values of patriotism, nationalism, heroism, unity and national identity
(Malipot, 2014).
The local government of the city of Laguna is also doing its fair share in promoting
the historical awareness in their province. The local government is conducting different
activities that involves supporting the history and culture. Activities like conducting a
summer theater workshop for the youth of Laguna which the division of the History arts
and culture are one of the promoters of the said event. Other than that, the provincial
government also conducts exhibits. And one example is the Flag Day exhibit which
commemorates the unofficial spreading out of the Philippine flag victory. It signifies the
victory of the Filipino revolutionaries against the Spaniards that happened in Alapan,

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Imus, Cavite. Lastly, they also have Historical conferences that historians, academes and
cultural officers attended (Bernardo, 2011).
It is a great thing that people are still in touch with our traditions, customs and history.
But being a patriot doesnt just end in being familiar with the traditions and customs but
respecting it as well. Our built heritage are witnesses to what we have become as a
country. These structures connects us to our past. When the Jai-alai building was
demolished in the year 2000, it was the biggest issue of demolition there was. Ordinary
citizens only saw the building as a landmark; something that they used for directions. But
for historians and conservationists, it was more than that. It made Manila more interesting
and it reflects the Filipino Culture very well (Cagurangan, 2000). Just like the Jai-alai
building, the Meralco building also gained the same attention after being reportedly
demolished in the year 2012. The two building also shared the same style of design, the
Art-Deco Streamline. The Meralco building was so important when it comes to the
history because of the two artist who collaborated in making the building Juan Arellano
and Francesco Ricardo Monti. The building was considered one of the modern
commercial buildings in Manila according to Architect Paulo Alcarazen. It had the first
air-conditioned offices and this was built before the war. One of its outstanding feature is
the Furies, the sculptor of Monti located on its faade (Henares, 2012). From this issue
raised many heritage activists on saving the heritage building. And this incident showed
that the architects should have done something about the demolition. According to
Henares, the incident showed that the architects have a big responsibility in the
preservation of the historical and heritage buildings in our country. He also pointed out
the role of the United Architects of the Philippines (UAP) to spread the facts on the
Heritage Laws to its members. Henares also pointed out that the people who should have
known the values of the heritage buildings should be the architects.

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This incident became the start of many conservation acts and projects all over the
country. For the past years, adaptive re-use and other conservation activities had become
growing practice all over the country just like the adaptive re-use of the Meralco building
faade into the new structure. The Heritage Conservation Society (HCS) is a group which
promotes heritage awareness and has done a lot of effort in preserving the forgotten gems
of our country. (Bugayong II, n.d.)
This shows our stand on how patriotic we are. This shows how aware we are when it
comes to our history but not so much to our heritage. People react to architectural heritage
being demolished only when its too late. According to Mayor Atienza, the groups should
have done something about the building long ago if they really wanted to preserve it. It
was rotting and was only used as a parking area for so long and if they really wanted to
do something about it, they should have done the initiatives in preserving the building
(Cagurangan, 2000).
What is left of the tangible heritage?
We are left with so many things from the past that sets as reminders to the
present generation of the Filipinos. Not only do they serves as reminders but these also
serves as proofs of our progress, our strength as a country and our pride as Filipinos. Our
customs, traditions, paintings, songs and many more our very own heritage that we should
all be proud of.
There are two types of heritage the intangible and the tangible heritage. And we
have a vast collection of both. The intangible heritage are those that cannot be touched
like customs, traditions and festive events that we still practice up to now (Peralta, 2013).
This includes our literature pieces like Hudhud Epic and Ambahan Poetry, performing
arts like the Zarzuela and Singkil dance, and the rites and rituals performed all over the
country like courtship and marriage. Tangible Cultural Heritage, as mentioned earlier, are
those that can be seen and touched like the buildings, monuments and artifacts. Also, this
can be natural resources that are still available today (Roxas-Lim).
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The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is

the world-leading organization that deals with the relationship of the countries with each
other. As mentioned in their website, the organization is also known as the intellectual
agency of the United Nations. One of their advocacies is protecting our heritage and
fostering creativity. One of their convention which is the Protection of World Cultural and
Natural Heritage distinguishes certain places and monuments all around the country that
are believed to be outstanding in terms of their value. Currently, there are 190 countries
observing the World Heritage Convention and there are 962 sites that are included in
World Heritage List (World Heritage, n.d.). The World Heritage List contains the sites and
monuments that are culturally and historically significant. In the Philippines, there are six
sites that are included in the World Heritage List of the UNESCO. First in the list is the
Baroque Churches in the Philippines specifically, the Church of Nuestra Seora de la
Asuncion in Sta. Maria, the Church of the Immaculate Concepcion of San Agustin in
Manila, the Church of San Agustin in Paoay and the Church of Santo Tomas de
Villanueva in Miag-ao. Next on the list is the Tubbataha Reefs National Park in Palawan.
The Rice Terraces of the Philippines, the Town of Vigan, the Puerto Princesa
Subterranean River National Park and the Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary
are also in the list ("World Heritage List", n.d.). This list satisfied the definition of the
tangible cultural heritage. It had the historical buildings and also natural sites.
The National Historical Institute (NHI) is responsible for the heritage sites here in the
Philippines. As mentioned earlier, the Republic Act 10066 protects the heritage buildings
that are over 50 years of age. Although there is no official list of the heritage buildings, it
doesnt mean that there are no heritage buildings. And some of these buildings are almost
seen every day. The Metropolitan Theater is one example. It was designed by Juan
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Arellano before the war. Juan Arellano also designed other buildings like the Post Office
and the Legislative building. The students from the University might not all be aware that
they are in contact with heritage buildings every day. Especially the students of
University of Sto. Tomas and Far Eastern University. Both universities are significant to
both history and architecture. The University of Sto. Tomas is the only university that was
bestowed royal by King Charles III during the Spanish era while Far Eastern University
is designed by one of the National Artist of our country, Pablo Antonio. Near Far Eastern
University is the Gota de Leche, which is designed by Arcadio Arellano in 1915. It was a
feeding center for needy children during its hay day. It is one of the forgotten heritage
sites today. Its design is based on one of the jewels in the world of architecture which is
the Ospedale degli Innocenti located in Florence. It is an orphanage designed by a famous
renaissance architect, Brunelleschi. Within the area is the San Sebastian church. It is the
only steel church found in Asia. It bares the style of Gothic Revival and was considered
endangered site due to rusting. It was believed that the reason was air pollution.
Just a little farther from the University belt is the Quiapo church. It is famous for the
Black Nazarene. Nearby is the Nakpil house which has been transformed into a gallery.
The Manila city hall is also considered as a heritage site. It contains the mural paintings
of another National Artist, Carlos Botong Francisco. And just in front of the Manila
City hall is the walled city of Intramuros. Built during the Spanish era, it has become one
of the countrys heritage site. Other historical sites are found inside the Intramuros like
the Fort Santiago, San Agustin Church, Manila Cathedral and the Casa Manila Museum
(Alba, 2006).
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Those are just some of the heritage buildings found in Manila alone. There are still a
lot to be included in the list that is scattered all over the Philippines. These are what is left
of our tangible cultural heritage.
Adaptive Reuse as a practice
The preservation of old buildings could be something positive for the majority of
people all over the world. The idea of keeping the tradition and culture of a building
seems something that people would agree upon (Greer, 1998). According to Mata,
Adaptive Reuse is defined as neither renovation nor remodeling. These two terms imply
total change and the disruption of the integrity of the original structure and its spaces.
Adaptive reuse goes beyond pure renovation and reconstruction. It necessarily includes
redistribution (Mata, 2009).
But it is simply defined as the process of making
something new out of the old. In the field of Architecture, it can be defined as the process
of re-purposing an old building. It is becoming one of the trends in world of architecture
today. It is not surprising given the fact that all the countries have their own collection of
old and historical buildings. According to Greer, the main goal of the practice of adaptive
reuse is to capture the buildings spirit in a way that complements the buildings historic
fabric and spatial organization.
Now a days, the concept of the 3Rs is not that unfamiliar to us. Especially to what is
happening to our environment now. The issue of conservation and preservation historical
buildings arent the only issues responsible for the evolution of the practice of Adaptive
Reuse all over the world. Although the main reason for practicing such procedure is still
focused on the preservation of the cultural heritage of each of the country.
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There are several advantages that comes along in the practice of adaptively reusing
the heritage buildings. These benefits are the following: (a) Environmental, (b) Social, (c)
Economic and (d) Innovation.
It is environmental in the sense that there would be a lot of energy that would be
saved. The energy that would have been spent in the process of constructing a new
building is saved. The energy from the manufacturing and transportation of the materials,
the energy consumed from all the electrical equipment and the resources are called
embodied energy. And when adaptive reuse is practiced, the embodied energy of the
building would be saved thus, making it more environmentally sustainable. It can also
have a social impact when it is done right. Through this, the people would be able to
appreciate the building and the heritage more. Many generations would still be able to
experience the building. Economically, it would be an advantage because of the money
that would have been spent in demolishing the old building. Lastly, every adaptive reuse
project can be considered as another innovation. The process and the technology that was
used on each of the adaptive reuse project can be considered as innovations (Kerr, 2004).
Eihorn Yaffee Prescott is an American firm that has worked with historical buildings
and have dealt with adaptive reuse. One of their works is the B&O Railroad Museum. In
this project, they have incorporated new elements in the buildings faade to give it a
touch of modernism without compromising the original architectural character of the
building. Their aim is to not to make the building lose its integrity when it was first built
(Greer, 1998).
In the Philippines, there have already been numerous efforts of conservation. The
earliest record of conservation effort was during the 1970s by the organization of the
Intramuros Administration. This organization had the same responsibilities as the
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National Museum and the National Historical Institute today but theirs was to oversee the
conservation and reconstruction of the walls of Intramuros. After 20 years, the city of
Intramuros, under the administration and the Intramuros building code, is completely
restored and is now housing a museum, a shopping complex and a hotel complex.
Another example is the moat around the Intramuros which is used today as a golf course.
The Elks Club back in the day is now used as the childrens museum. The Elks Club was
designed by the American architect, William Parsons who went here to implement
Burnhams plan for Manila. The buildings planning of the spaces made it suitable for its
new use. The second floor was overlooking the Luneta Park which was an asset for the
museum. After decades of being idle, the Elks Club was once again used thanks to
adaptive reuse (Villalon A. F., 2001).
One of the present adaptive reuse project is the National Museum for Natural History.
The building housed the Department of Tourism before and is now being developed as the
first National Museum for Natural History. Its main feature would be the DNA tree of
life which is located at the open court of the building (Ramos, 2015). It is a perfect
example of the old blending with the new.
Museums as a tool for learning
The concept of museum came from palaces that had collection of royal artifacts that
Ptolemy I called Mouseion, which is a palace which resembles the place where the gods
and goddesses of poetry, arts and history meditated. Pope Sixtus IV also had something
called Museo Capitolino which is where his collection are displayed. From there, many
museum have already sprung out in different places. It was only in the year 1683 when
the Ashmolean Museum by the Oxford University was used as an educational tool.
Museums are associated with collections of art works and usually, people tend to see it as
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the only function of a museum. But according to William Rubin in his article in New York
Times entitled When Museums Overpower our art, the main purpose of a museum is
the serene, uninflected contemplation of the works of art. A museums architectural
symbolism and importance cannot be matched by other building styles other than schools,
stadia, center of government and religious buildings (Davis, 1990).
Aside from the traditional museums that only has art works as exhibits, there are other
types of museum that has emerged over time. There are also museums that are dedicated
to science and technology and natural history. The Smithsonian Institute located in
Washington D.C. is an institution that owns the biggest museum in America. Considering
its size, it also has the largest number of exhibit collection ranging from the subjects
naturals history, space-related collections and of course, arts. There are nineteen (19)
museums and galleries that are owned by the Smithsonian Institute.
Museums are a part of a persons childhood. They are often the itineraries for
fieldtrips during the preschool and elementary years. It has always been related to
education and museums are supposed to be a tool for learning. A museum should be able
to satisfy John Deweys idea, every experience is a moving force. Through the exhibits
and right planning, the users of the establishment should be able to learn something from
the experience. A museum have the power in educating its users. It should be able to help
the user learn by defining, designing and regulating the knowledge that it offer to its user.
With just the exhibits, the users should be able to learn something from the experience
that they will be having inside the museum. There can also be failure to learning in
museums due to poor planning for circulation, lack of display or random displays, and
insufficient space for the users. The circulation of the museum could affect the learning of
its user by disrupting the flow of information. Each exhibit often are related to each other
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and are arranged in a way that a massage could be given in order to learn something. With
poor circulation, this can lead to disrupting the message. Lack of displays or an
overwhelming amount of display could also interrupt a users learning. Overwhelming
displays can cause confusion. The lack of space for the users to think, absorb the ideas or
just to write notes about the information could also bring a negative impact for its users.
Locally, we have various museums that can be used for educational purposes like
fieldtrips. In Manila alone, we have the National Museum and the Museo Pambata. The
National Museum has a series of collections that falls under four category, namely natural
history, archeology, ethnography and arts. Museo Pambata or the Childrens Museum has
exhibits that the children can easily relate to like old manila, parts of the body, and many
more. Most of their exhibits are interactive that the children enjoy. Art in Island located in
Cubao showcases 3-dimensional artworks that are interactive. The displays are directly
painted on the walls and the floors of the museum.
Scattered in the archipelago are local museums as well. One example is the Argao
Museum in Cebu. It was a case of adaptive reuse as well. It was originally a municipal
hall of the city of Argao. It shows the local culture of the province like making coconut
wine and the art of making their dessert (Bautista, 2013).
Museums Innovations
Museums are usually associated with the arts or the history and culture. As time
passed, there sprang many types of museums. Museums has several types and these are
science centers, children museums, science museums, art museums, natural history
museums, history museums and corporate museums (Walhimer, 2013). Traditional
exhibits are usually classified as paintings, sculptures, literary works and other artifacts
that are significant to the culture, the field of art, history and science. But museum
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exhibits today are not limited to paintings, sculptures and other art works by different
artists. Nowadays, we have almost all types of exhibits from replicas of the atom, to the
replica of the whale.
As time passed, the industry of museum had to do something to increase their
attendance. And the museums are now coping with the advancement of everything else with
the help of technology as well. An interactive museum is a new trend today. This features
displays that the visitors will be able to interact with other than just staring at it and reading a
description. Just like the Art in Island in Cubao, people can interact with the displays in that
museum trying to be in the displays itself. In Science museums, interactive displays have the
power to explain the scientific concepts that are usually explained in just words. Just like
holding a static ball that makes hair stand up is one example. The use of other technology like
lights and sounds is also being used today. This technology is used in conveying a story and
in presenting the exhibits. The Intramuros and Rizal, Bagumbayan light and museum is one
of the museum that uses this technology and it is used to tell the story of the national hero.
Green museums are also a trend today. With the environmental change that we are
experiencing today, museums are also applying the green technology. Museums are generally
trying to incorporate sustainable design, technology and content in their operations and
exhibitions (Byers, 2008). Hub museums are also in line with different innovations that are
incorporated in designing a museum. According to Mark Wahlimer, a Hun Museum is defined
as an all in one museum. This type of museum changes its exhibits every three months and
rotated with other hub museums. This is the future of museums.
Exhibits and their affect to the people
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Museums are visited for a various reasons for enjoyment and leisure, for quality
time with the family, to experience somethings new, or just to learn something. According to
researches, the main reason for visiting a museum is for learning (David Anderson, Martin
Storksdieck, and Michael Spock, 2007). Learning is achieved through the displays and the
collection inside a museum.
Exhibition is not just placing and putting displays around the museum. It is also a
systematic process. The process of making a plan for the construction of public displays for
the purpose of learning and educating is called the Museum Exhibition Design. Mark
Walhimer, an expert when it comes to planning museums, has also introduced the five (4)
design phases in Museum Exhibition design. The first phase is called the Concept
Development phase. This is the phase where it shows where the project is going. It is the
development of ideas and usually where aspects like project objective, initial budgets, and
project character comes up. The second phase is called the Schematic design or the
Exhibition Narrative. This is where the specifics are talked about like what is the theme, the
artifacts to be used, the appearance and the spatial arrangements. By this time, there would be
layouts for the circulation of the museum and other studies that would show schemes for the
plan. The next phase is the Design Development phase is where plans, elevations and sections
are created. Researches have also been compiled in this phase. Final design phase is where
the complete package for the exhibit are shown. This includes exhibition
identification, exhibition descriptions, a database of exhibit components, measured CAD
plans with content, floor plans, elevations, artifact lists, measured graphic design elements
and samples, draft scripts with details for audio visual components, interactive exhibits, final
text, sound and lighting systems specifications, production schedules and a fabrication cost
estimate. By the end of this phase, the team can proceed developing the plans. The fifth phase
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is called the Construction Documents or contract documents (Walhimer, Museum Exhibition

Design, 2011). Martello is also another architect who masters the designing of museum
exhibitions. He developed his own criteria on designing every museum project that he has.
His criteria comprises the layout to be used, the interpretation of story lines for the exhibits,
the look-and-feel and the use of technologies. He developed his own design principles when
it comes to designing a museum. His first principle is called the clarity of purpose. This deals
with the order of the messages and the information that you want your users to receive. This
principle covers the planning considering the target users of the project. Knowing who the
target users can help in deciding the right exhibits that could be useful to the museums
visitors and will also be helpful to the planning for the layout. The message that the designer
should also be clear when it comes to planning a museum. The message should be clear so
that the visitors would be able to effectively learn from the experience. His second principle
is called Layered Information. This principle explains that the considered themes, topics, and
references should be applied to all aspects such as the spatial, audiovisual, technological and
graphical aspects. The third principle is the Meaningful Engagement. This means that there
should be innovations and integration of interactive displays. Just as teachers help their
students in learning, this is also the same way how interactive displays help the museum
visitors. The fourth discipline is called the Authenticity. This deals with the appropriateness
of the technology that is used in the design with the building itself. Lastly, the principle is
Resonance explains that the features of the museum should cater to what the visitors agenda
is. These principles help the development of a good design when it comes to exhibit design
(Leslie).
Since the 1980s, museums have already welcomed the use of technology. The use of
interactive displays have been widely used for better learning experience and to boost
museum attendance. Studies have shown that museum visitors, especially the children and the
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young adults, respond to interactive displays in the museum better. And many museum
curators are actually interested in this idea and they think that there is a big difference in
learning with these kinds of display and exhibits. Interactive displays in museums usually
take forms as touch-screen kiosks, CD-ROMS, computer games and large-screen video walls
and many others (Griffiths). Interactive displays are effective in the process of learning
maybe because people can actually see for themselves and experience something instead of
just looking at something and reading a description of it.
Life-size or big displays in museums have also been a trend. This kind of displays
capture the attention of the users right away. People tend to appreciate things that are grand
and life sized displays offer this kind of aspect. Other than that, large displays encourage
socialization. According to one study, large displays makes the users interact with each other
more and this type of exhibit could be effective with small groups of museum visitors.
1.6 Conceptual/Theoretical Framework

1.6.1 Conceptual Framework
The concept for the project are a mixture of the traditional concepts in designing a
museum mixed with the concepts and principles that are used in the practice today. One of the
museums problems are associated with the low attendance. Combining it with a social hub
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can increase the number of its attendees. Other concepts like going green and innovations are
also placed for a useful output.
Culture
Arts
Learning
Experience
Social
Hub
Technology
Integration
Museum
3Rs
Collection
/Displays/
Exhibition
s
Green
Museums
Traditional
Unconventional
*Paintings
*Science
*Artifacts
*Technology
*Sculpture
*Architectural Heritage
*Etc.
Innovations
*interactive displays
*lights and sounds
Light and Sound Interactive Museum and Social Hub
1.6.2 Theoretical Framework
Fig. 1: Conceptual Framework
Problem:
Negligence of Architectural Heritage &
Low Attendance of Museums
Cultural Innovations
Awareness*Using new
technology
and
*Promoting
the
concepts in the
Architectural
Heritage design of the
Awarenessproject.
Socialization
*Integrating
socialization to
increase museum
attendance.
22

-Proper planning
guarantees
learning.
- Integration of
interactive
displays related
to the
Architectural
Heritage.
- Right choice of
Exhibits
- Provision of
spaces that
initiate
socialization
(sharing of
ideas)
- Providing
another use for
the structure
could attract
more users.
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- Integration of
lights and sounds
as unique
feature.
- Provision of
interactive
displays
-Green
technology in
designing.
- Adaptive Reuse
of GSIS building
Lights and Sounds Interactive Museum and social hub promoting

Architectural Heritage Awareness and Socialization
1.7 Research Design
Fig. 2: Theoretical Framework
1.7.1 Research Design

The Research design for the project is a qualitative research on the problems that
could have an affect with the process of designing of the proposed project. The research
design is considered as a qualitative design since it involves collection of data from
interviews, observations and other sources. It falls under this category because the
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interpretation of the outcome will be based on the data collected and the researchers own
perception. The possible innovations and concepts that could be integrated in the design
of the project, Architectural Heritage Museum are all part of the research.
The project is an adaptive reuse of a building that is more than 60 years of age. With
this case, the buildings structural integrity is certainly in question. Solutions for
strengthening the structural stability of the building is one of the major consideration that
is part of the research. Since it is considered as a heritage building, it should not be able to
lose its architectural character that has made it significant. The building would be
adaptively reused as a museum. A museum should be able to make its users learn from the
experience of visiting it. The exhibits in the museum should all be viewed by its users and
the user should be able to socialize with each other to exchange ideas. The psychology of
how people will perceive space is also a part of the research for the planning of the
circulation of the users. Other concepts like the concept of socialization, that could be
integrated are also part of the research.
Being outdated of the modern trend of going green today, the museum should be able
to have a design that would update it with the trend in architecture that would help the
environment. New innovations and technologies should be integrated in the design of the
museum so as to attract more clients.
1.7.2 Research Tactic
The researcher needed information about the study. Data that are used for this
research are gathered through various methods. These methods include Library research, site
visitation, photo documentation, site documentation, internet searching, interview and case
studies.
Library Research
o Far Eastern University- Manila Library
Data gathered in this library were topics such as Architectural Museum
designs, adaptive reuse, heritage conservation and Filipino awareness on heritage.
These information are used for discovering concepts and strategies that can be
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used in designing the project. The data gathered are from a variety of books,
periodicals and journals.
o Manila City Hall Library
The information that were taken in this library is about the history of
the abandoned GSIS building and its characteristics. The main sources from this
library are reports and books.

Internet Searching
o Inquirer.net
This is the online site of the recognized newspaper in the country.
Data gathered in this site are about the news on demolitions of heritage buildings
in Manila.
o Manila Bulletin.com
This is also the online site of a known newspaper in the country. The
data gathered here is about the status of awareness of the Filipino in their culture.
o Other websites
Data that are from the same topics mentioned in the library research
are used in web searching.

Interview
o Ivan Anthony S. Henares
He is the current president of the Heritage Conservation Society, the
proponent of the project. He is asked question related to the requirements that are
needed in the project and data about conservation of heritage buildings. The
history of the GSIS building is also a topic for the interview.
o Tomas U. Ganiron Jr.
He is a civil engineer who made a study about the structural stability of
the old GSIS building. The researcher asked Engr. Ganiron questions regarding
the techniques that can be done in improving the structural stability of the
building.
Manila City Hall visit
Documents like Transfer Certificate of Title (TCT), Comprehensive
Land Use Plan (CLUP), Water and electricity layout and vicinity map is gathered
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by the researcher from the City Engineers and City Planning department of the
Manila City hall.
Site Documentation and Visitation

Through this, the physical attributes of the sites would be known like
flooding, traffic flow, the damaged part of the building, etc.

Photo documentation
Organization of photos of the current condition of the site are gathered
for further analyzation. Other photos from related project shall also be studied.
Case Studies
Case studies related the same project are used in the research for other
concepts and principles that can be applied in the project. Case studies on
museums and adaptive reuse are the materials that are used.
1.8 Scope and Limitation

The scope of the project will include the study of the adaptive reuse of the old GSIS
building into an Architectural Heritage Museum. The development is in a 10,818 square
meter land located in Villegas corner Lopez street, Ermita, Manila. It would be able to cater
to approximately 1000 users. The project shall be able to raise awareness for the Filipino
Architectural Heritage. The type of adaptive reuse to be considered is not to fully alter the
envelope
of the building thus, the interior of the building shall receive most of the
attention in designing. One floor shall be added to the existing building that would act as a
social hub, a place where the tourist could interact and share ideas. Integration of new
elements and the existing style shall compromise the design for its faade since the goal is not
to ruin the architectural integrity of the building. The social hub shall contain means of
entertainment such as computers and other technology but should still relate to the advocacy
of the museum. The developments target users are mostly students and tourists. Studies on
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the structural integrity of the old GSIS building shall also be a scope of the project.
Incorporation of green technology in the building shall also be a scope of the project.
The concept of place-based interpretive design shall be the focus of the whole study.
The approach on how to design the building so that it tells a story about its culture. This
study shall also include the strategies to be used in designing its interior that will be telling
the story of the history of Architecture in the Philippines.
The researcher should be able to produce the minimum requirements of the project
like floor plans, elevations, sections, site development plan and perspectives. However,
structural, electrical, and mechanical plans shall only be presented as concepts through bay
sections, isometrics, spot details and diagrams.
1.9 Definition of Terms
Adaptive Reuse
It is the process of repurposing an old, commonly, a
Architectural Heritage
heritage building.
Buildings that are historically significant.
Art Deco
An architectural style originated in France and
Conservation
Embodied energy
flourished in the Philippines from the 1930s to 1950s.

It is the practice of preserving a heritage building.
It is the over-all energy that was spent in the
Exhibit
Green design
construction of a building.
Collections that are displayed in a museum.
Technology that is incorporated in designing buildings
Heritage
that are environmentally friendly.

Anything that is passed on from generations to
Innovations
Intangible heritage
generations
Act of introducing something new.
Heritages that cannot be physically passed on;
Interactive
Traditions, cultural practices and the like.

Designed to respond to actions, commands, etc. of the
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user.
An institution that is dedicated in conserving and
exhibiting different collections ranging from national
Neoclassical
artifacts, work of arts, and scientific marvels.

An architectural style that aims in bringing back the
classical style during the mid-18th century. It flourished
Renovation
in Philippines during the 1900s.

The process of making changes or repairs to an existing
Shock-crete
building.
A structural process that reinforces existing walls with a
new layer of steel rods and concrete.
1.10 Hypothesis
Lack of knowledge regarding the importance of our heritage and culture might be one
of the reasons why there are dying traditions and neglected heritage in our country.
Institutions like museums that would promote the said culture and heritage can be a great
help and answer to this rising problem. The proposed Architectural Museum will be able to
help the community be aware of the importance of the Architectural Heritage of our country.
With suitable planning strategies, the visitors would be able to process the information
properly and will result to better learning experience. And with proper exhibition, the visitors
will also be able to absorb the facts better and they would not be overwhelmed with random
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displays. Adaptively reusing the abandoned GSIS building can also help the advocacy of the
project to save heritage buildings of our country.
Bibliography:
Books:
Byers, R. (2008). "Green Museums = Green Exhibits". Oregon: University of Oregon.
Carr, D. (1990). "Museums and Universities". New York: Macmillan Publishing Company.
Davis, D. (1990). "The Museum Transformed". New York: Cross River Press.
David Anderson, Martin Storksdieck, and Michael Spock. (2007). In Principle, in Practice:
Museums as Learning Institutions. Maryland: Alta Mira Press.
Greer, N. R. (1998). "Architecture as Response". Massachusetts: Rockport Publisher Inc.
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Leslie, M. (n.d.). "Applying Basic Design Principles to Technology in Museums". Dublin:

Harvard Graduate School.
Peralta, J. T. (2013). "Pinagmulan: Enumerations from the Philippine inventory of

intangiblecultural heritage". Manila: National Commission for Culture and The Arts.
Villalon, A. F. (2001). "Lugar: Essays on Philippine Heritage and Architecture". Makati: The
Bookmark Inc.
Periodicals:
Bautista, J. T. (2013, May). "Little Museum at the Corner". Cruising, pp. 52-55.
Cagurangan, M.-V. (2000). "Blind to Heritage". Philippine Free Press, 14-15.
Kerr, W. (2004). "Adaptive Reuse". Australia: Pirion.
Mata, R. L. (2009). "Heritage Conservation: Applying Scientific Method in Architecture".
MUHON: A Journal of Architecture, Landscape Architecture and the Designed
Environment, 28-37.
Ramos, N. (2015). "Adaptive Evolution". BluPirnt, 2, pp. 34-41.

Online Sources:
Alba, R. A. (2006, January 26). "In Focus: And You Thought You Had Not Been to Any
Heritage Site?". Retrieved from National Commision for Culture and the Arts.
Arc de Triomphe Paris. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.arcdetriompheparis.com/

Bernardo, A. B. (2011). PROGRAMS FOR HISTORICAL AWARENESS. Laguna.
Retrieved from http://www.laguna.gov.ph/content/programs-historicalawareness#top
Bugayong II, C. A. (n.d.). Philippine Heritage Awareness. Retrieved from pinoyshooter.org:

http://pinoyshooter.org/bogs/archives/4891
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Culture: UNESCO. (n.d.). Retrieved from www.UNESCO.org:

http://www.unesco.org/culture/ich/doc/src/01851-EN.pdf
Franchi, E. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.khanacademy.org/humanities/art-historybasics/beginners-art-history/a/what-is-cultural-heritage
Griffiths, A. (n.d.). Media Technology and Museum Display: A Century of Accommodation

and Conflict. Retrieved from MIT Communications forum.
Henares, I. A. (2012, February 19). Near-demolition of Art Deco Meralco building raises
awareness for heritage conservation. Inquirer. Retrieved from
http://lifestyle.inquirer.net/35345/near-demolition-of-art-deco-meralco-buildingraises-awareness-for-heritage-conservation/
Malipot, I. H. (2014, April 16). Historical awareness of pupils, students advocated. Manila
Bulletin. Retrieved July 19, 2015, from http://www.mb.com.ph/historical-awarenessof-pupils-students-advocated/
PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 1505. (1978). Retrieved from National Historical

Commission of the Philippines: http://nhcp.gov.ph/presidential-decree-no-1505prohibiting-unauthorized-modification-repair-of-original-features/
Presidential Decree No. 206. (1973). Retrieved from Official Gazette:

http://www.gov.ph/1973/06/06/presidential-decree-no-206/
Republic Act No. 10066. (2009). Retrieved from The LawPhil Project:
http://www.lawphil.net/statutes/repacts/ra2010/ra_10066_2010.html
Roxas-Lim, A. (n.d.). The Philippines, general information about Culture and life. Retrieved
from AboutPhilippines: http://aboutphilippines.ph/filer/toledo-cebu/Cultural-Heritagein-Philippine-Society.pdf
Villalon, T. (2012). Remember jai alai: Stop making Manila heritage demolition victim.
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Walhimer, M. (2011). Museum Exhibition Design. Retrieved from Museum Planner:

http://museumplanner.org/museum-exhibition-design-2/
Walhimer, M. (2013, August 09). Museum Planning. Retrieved from Musuem Planner:
http://museumplanner.org/what-is-the-most-innovative-type-of-museum/
"World Heritage List". (n.d.). Retrieved from World Heritage Convention UNESCO:
http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/
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Architectural Heritage Museum: An Adaptive Reuse

Villegas cor. Lopez St, Ermita, Manila

Background/Overview of the problem