REDEVELOPMENT OF CONSULATE

AND CULTURAL CENTER OF

IRANIAN EMBASSY IN
THE PHILIPPINES

By

Parastoo Rajaei
2009220607

Bachelor of Science in architecture

Mapua institute of technology

A Thesis Presented to the School of AR, ID & the BE In Partial Fulfillment of

the Requirements in Architectural Design 11/ AR200/ AR200S
for the Degree of BS Architecture

Architect Junar Pakingan Tablan, uap, MSAE

Adviser
Mapa Institute of Technology
Dec 2014
1

Approval Sheet
This is to certify that I have supervised and read the preparation of the thesis entitled Redevelopment
Of Consulate and Cultural Center Of Iranian Embassy in the Philippines prepared by
Parastoo,Rajaei and that the said thesis has been recommended for acceptance and approval for oral
defense by the Thesis Evaluation committee.

_______________________________
Architecture Junar Pakingan Tablan,uap
Adviser
As members of the Thesis Evaluation Committee, we certify that we have reviewed and examined this
thesis with the grade of _________ and hereby recommend that it be accepted as partial fulfilment of the
requirements in Architectural Design 11- AR200/ 2S / AR200/ 2F for the degree of Bachelor of science in
Architecture.
________________________

________________________

Name

Name

Panel Member 1

Panel Member 2

________________________
Name
Committee Chair
This thesis is hereby approved and accepted by the School of Architecture, Industrial Design and Built
Environment in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Bachelor of Science in
Architecture.

_______________________________
Arch. Gloria B. Teodoro, fuap, piep
Dean
School of Architecture, Industrial Design and Built Environment
ii

Abstract
Embassies and consulates have two essential purposes: to be safe, secure, functional, and inspiring places for the
conduct of diplomacy, and to physically represent the Iran government to the host nation. A facility that represents
the best of Iranian architecture, design, engineering, and construction will be an appropriate workspace, contextually
appropriate, and a respected landmark representing the best of Iranian government, enterprise, and culture in the
Philippines.
This study will focused on Architecture Design + Service Design and Combination of Cultural center and
Diplomatic facility which is not common in the diplomatic facilities of Iran.
Current building was not designed to be an embassy; it was a house which later transformed its functionality into an
embassy. It occupied a small portion of the front lot and leaving a big backyard vacant while the interior spaces are
not in appropriate size and not even suitable for their functions. Beside all of these they have to rent another building
in other place, as a cultural center and it makes people be apart and not familiar to the embassy or cultural center.
Since 90% of Iranian population here in Philippines are the students so the two buildings should be ready to serve
the Iranian youth generation and be prepared to give some services to them.
The challenge is to apply these principles, coordinate their efforts, and deliver built embassy complex that represent
the best of Iranian architecture, engineering, technology, art, and culture.
Mixed-use facilities are a productive use of space, and they add vitality to urban areas.
The mission of this mixed-used building is to promote better understanding of Iran within the international
community and to increase friendship and goodwill between Iran and the Philippines through various exchange
programs and it will support Iranian Galleries, Festivals, Exhibitions and Performances which can have a great
psychologically and mentally effect on the Iranian youth here and helping them in coping with the of being
homesick, missing families and friends in the origin country and helping them to improve their abilities even they
are far from home.

iii

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

First and foremost, I am grateful to the Almighty God for giving me wisdom to complete this
thesis. I would like to express my deepest appreciation to my thesis adviser, Arch. Junar
Pakingan Tablan,uap, his help has been vital for me in completing this proposal and turning my
thoughts in an actual action. Thank you to my parents who has been with me as always and
supporting me till this stage of my study. Thank you to my dear friend Reza Sayareh as well who
has been with me every step of the way.

iv

Table of Contents

Approved Sheet

Acknowledgment

ii

Abstract

iii

Table of Content

iv

Chapter I.1: Introduction

I.1.1.Back ground of the study

I.1.2.Statement of the problem

I.1.3.Goals and objectives

I.1.4.Significant of this study

I.1.5.Scope, Limitation

I.1.6.Assumption

I.1.7. Conceptual frameworks

I.1.8. Conceptual frameworks

Chapter I.2: Review of related literature

I.2.1 Related study

I.2.2 Related Literature

I.2.2.1 Architecture Defined

I.2.2.2 Architecture Matters

I.2.2.4.As Political Authority

10

I.2.2.5 Task of Consulate

10

I.2.2.6 Task of Embassy

11

I.2.2.7.What influences the embassy architecture as

expression of political values?

11

I.2.2.8. Reviewing of some Case Studies

v

12

Chapter I.3:

Chapter I.4:

Chapter II:

Chapter III:

Research Methodology

23

I.3.1.Research Design

23

I.3.2.Population and sampling

37

I.3.3.Research Instruments

37

Summary of Findings and Analysis

42

I.4.2.Presentation of colected data

44

I.4.3.Need Analysis

46

I.4.4.Conclusion and Recommendation

47

Research Focus

48

II.1 Rational

48

II.2 Principle and Relevance to the Project

50

II.3 Application to the Project

52

Site Identification and Analysis

60

III.1.1.Criteria for Site Selection

60

III.1.2.Site Option Description

62

III.1.3.Site Selection and Justification

64

III.2.1 Site Evaluation and Analysis

65

III.2.2.The Micro Setting

67

Chapter III.3 Site Development Options

68

References

71

Appendix

72

vi

Chapter I.1

INTRODUCTION

Modern diplomacy's origins are often traced to the states of Northern Italy in the early
Renaissance, in the thirteenth century .The practice spread from Italy to the other European
powers. Milan was the first to send a representative to the court of France in 1455. In Iran, the
first Iranian Embassy 1 published in 1850 in London and Saint Petersburg.
Embassies and diplomatic buildings are representative of a foreign country in the capital city
of the host country. Their land is alien territory and governments do not interfere in its internal
affairs.

I.1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

Embassies and consulates are facilities that represent the best of country architecture, design,
engineering, and construction will be an appropriate workspace, contextually appropriate, and a
respected landmark representing the best of embassys government, enterprise, and culture in the
host country.
The most important factor in designing of such buildings is the image that these structures
want to give to the host country. This image sometimes considered as the ideals and beliefs of
the Embassys country and on the other hand as the relations with the host country.

I.1.2 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

Embassies are always facing the problem of integrating the tow subject that is opening to
the city and public while maintaining full security standards which can be solved with specific
solutions.
One of the contrasts in designing an Embassy is the stylistic and methodology of that
building. Each country prefer that its embassy building present the culture and characteristic of
that country while it might not be so pleasant for people of host country to see so many foreign
architectural buildings in their capital.
Another challenge in the design of diplomatic space is the challenge between history and
contemporary aesthetics and also coordination with the host country.
Applying the municipal regulations requires the submitted plans to the local authorities
and the open site to the supervisory engineers and inspectors and this is difficult because of the
security and protection.
Current building was not designed to be an embassy; it was a house which later
transformed its functionality into an embassy. It occupied a small portion of the front lot and
leaving a big backyard vacant while the interior spaces are not in appropriate size and not even
suitable for their functions. Beside all of these they have to rent another building in other place,
as a cultural center and it makes people be apart and not familiar to the embassy or cultural
center. Since 90% of Iranian population here in Philippines are the students so the two buildings
should be ready to serve the Iranian youth generation and be prepared to give some services to
them.

The challenge is to apply these principles, coordinate their efforts, and deliver built
embassy complex that represent the best of Iranian architecture, engineering, technology, art, and
culture.
I.1.3 GOALS AND OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY
The goal is improving the functionality of consulate and cultural center of Iranian
embassy in the Philippines.
Objectives

to apply these principles, coordinate their efforts, and deliver built embassy complex that
represent the best of Iranian architecture, engineering, technology, art, and culture.

To increase the functionality of the Consulate sector.

To increase the functionality of Cultural Center

To strengthen the cultural and economic relationship between Iran and Philippines.

To increase the truism industry in the Philippines.

Strategies

To design Mixed-use facilities to come up with a productive use of space and adding
vitality to urban areas

To promote better understanding of Iran within the international community and to

increase friendship and goodwill between Iran and the rest of the world through various
exchange programs and it will support Iranian Galleries, Festival, Exhibitions and
Performances.

I.1.4 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

The importance of this study will be for the purposes of attempting to reinvent Irans
reputation in the Philippines and so in the world by a good design of consulate and cultural center building. To

implement designs that will represent Iran to the world as a welcoming and open society while
maintaining appropriate security provisions.
Since the largest number of Iranian population here in the Philippines are young
students, careful planning for developing their talents and abilities has significance role.

I.1.5 SCOPE, LIMITATION

This study limits itself to redeveloping of the consulate and cultural center of Iranian
embassy in the Philippines and its not cover the diplomatic offices of ambassadors, diplomatic
advisor and financial advisor regarding to its ultra-top-secret of these areas.
I.1.6 ASSUMPTION
The study assumes that the proposed Consulate and cultural center will provide higher
quality of services to the both Iranians and interested Filipinos through the effective facilities
provided with its new environment. It is also assumed that it will contribute to design solutions
for the existing problems of the structure and will make it a youth friendly area.

I.1.7 CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK

IDENTIFICATION
OF THE PROBLEM
CONSULATE & CULTURAL CENTER OF IRANIAN EMBASSY IN MANIAL

Problem
analysis
Numeration and identification of some of the problems

Data gathering
and analyzing
Oral investigation

Formulation
of solution
Providing best solution and innovations based on data analysis

Solutions

Introducing solutions

I.1.8 DEFINITION OF TERMS

Iran - Also known as Persia officially the Islamic Republic of Iran, is a country in Middle East
Diplomatic building - government building in which diplomats live or work
Embassy - The official residence or offices of an ambassador.
Ambassador - An accredited diplomat sent by a country as its official representative to a foreign
country.
Consulate - diplomatic building that serves as the residence or workplace of a consul.
Cultural center - is an organization, building or complex that promotes culture and arts.
Cultural centers can be neighborhood community arts organizations, private facilities,
government-sponsored, or activist-run.

Chapter I.2

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES

I.2.1 Related study

The role of architecture and the built environment - more generally - for political purposes is
evidenced from the most ancient times throughout history. In general, architecture can legitimate
authority and, by interpreting ideals through physical form, may serve as inspiration. By creating
new forms, architecture also creates possibilities for new contents. Thus, architecture is a
powerful political tool for achieving different purposes based on values and this is the essence of
the politics-architecture nexus, or political architecture. This chapter provides citations from
existing studies that are related to the topic and use general information about Diplomatic
buildings and it is include definitions of consulate and cultural center of embassy and its spaces
as well as context information on Iranian architectural terms.

Embassies and consulates serve as the front door for US diplomacy. The safety and security
they provide to our personnel are the first priority, but they must also reflect our national values
of openness and ingenuity. in addition, embassies and consulates must exemplify the best of
American architecture, environmental stewardship, and innovation. Championing excellent
design and efficient technologies benefits both the American taxpayer and those overseas we
seek to serve. (Secretary of state John f. Kerry, November 2013)

Architecture is inescapably a political art, and it reports faithfully for ages to come what the
political values of a particular age were. Surely ours must be openness and fearlessness in the
face of those who hide in the darkness. Precaution, yes. Sequester, no. (SEN. Daniel Patrick
Moynihan March 25, 1999)

Diplomatic facilities abroad are more than just offices, residences, and places of assembly
and refuge. They are the physical presence of the nation beyond its borders. nations embassies
are symbols of the values and aspirations of the its people. ( Design for Diplomacy, A Report of
the AIA 21st-Century Embassy Task Force, the American Institute of Architect)

I.2.2 Related Literature

I.2.2.1 Architecture Defined
Architecture has been defined as the ultimate aim of all creative activity

,pure art,

disregarding utility, social art with political implications (Mayo 1996), the signature of power
(Lasswell 1979). Most generally, architecture is defined as a unity of form (style, aesthetics,
symbolism) and function (content, utility).

_____________________________
1

This definition is a part of the Manifesto and program of the Weimar Bauhaus, founded by Walter

Gropius in Germany in 1919 with the purpose of ending the isolation of the arts one from the other.

I.2.2.2 Architecture Matters

The power of symbolic architecture is so impressive that it was used by the authors of
Reframing Organizations (Bolman and Deal 1997) to emphasize the role of organizational
culture and symbols, expressed through architecture. Similarly, the design and symbolism of
public buildings may inspire awe in the citizens and thus reinforce political power (Goodsell
1988a). At a more mundane level, government offices and meeting rooms with their design, size
and dcor may reinforce the impression of just authority (Edelman 1995), or simply inspire
noble ideas. However, architecture relates to politics not only symbolically but also
substantively.
I.2.2.3.The Politics-Architecture Nexus Is about Values
The relationship between politics and architecture is part of the more general cause-andeffect relationship between the built environment and behavior, part of which is architecture in
the service of politics as a tool for structuring perceptions, or buildings purposely designed for
politics (Mayo 1996). This is well expressed by Churchills famous statement We shape our
buildings, and afterwards our buildings shape us

2.

Architecture is a powerful political tool for

achieving influence through examples of magnificence, wealth and craftsmanship as well as for
propaganda through manipulating symbolic meanings.

_____________________________
2

From Churchills speech of October 28, 1943 to the House of the Commons when he addressed the

reconstruction of the Commons chamber demolished during a Luftwaffe air raid in May 1941. Quoted
and cited in Goodsell, C. T. (1988a).
9

I.2.2.4.As Political Authority

Political architecture as reflection of changing concepts of political values - has been of
major interest to public administrations Charles T. Goodsell who has conducted the most
comprehensive examinations of political values reflected in different types of government
buildings. Most generally, Goodsells claim is that the architecture of government buildings
reflects political authority defined as the relationship between governors and governed. Goodsell
examines 1) the political values or ideas embedded in different government buildings; 2) the
effects of the buildings on contemporary political behavior and 3) the larger impressions the
buildings have on society (Goodsell 1988a; Goodsell 1988b; Goodsell 2001). In his most recent
examinations on government buildings, he summarizes the role of architecture for politics by
introducing three perspectives or lenses: expressive, behavioral and societal (Goodsell 2001).

I.2.2.5 Task of Consulate

A Consulate is the representation of the public administration of a country in a foreign town.
First of all it is responsible for its own fellow citizens, living or travelling in the host
country. The most important duties of a consulate are: to establish and renew passports and
other

official

documents,

to

report Births, Deaths, Marriages, Divorces, Adoptions etc.

happened in the host country to the competent authorities home, to inform its own citizens
living abroad about the social security situation, to handle the military formalities and
control for its own citizens liable to military service, to help its own citizens in distress or other
emergency situations, to look after its own citizens in detention or arrest and to watch over

10

the rule of law and fair trials, to establish entry visas to foreign citizens and to inform them
about immigration-, residence- and work permits.

I.2.2.6 Task of Embassy

An Embassy is the diplomatic representation of a country's government in another country, it
transmits messages of its home government to the government of the host country and vice versa,
it informs its home government about important political, social, economic, military and other
events happening in the host country, it prepares international treaties and official state visits, it
promotes its own home culture, economy and science in the host country, the military attach is
responsible for contacts between the two armed forces and for arms business, many embassies
(but not all of them) have a consular section exercising the functions of a consulate.

I.2.2.7.What influences the embassy architecture as expression of political values?

As explanatory variables, the analysis takes into account the wealth of both countries owning
and hosting the respective embassy, domestic politics of the owner country, culture and
regionalism. This examination of embassies demonstrates that political values can be measured
and thus empirically examined, explained and predicted by different objective factors as well as
by cultural affiliations. The major contribution of this study is the empirical support for the
designed model for deriving stable measurements of political values. Values expressed in
political architecture have the potential to support existing relations, to influence changes in
behaviors, processes and activities and even to influence social and political change. The major
finding of this study is that the wealth of host country is the single most important predictor of
11

embassy design as reflection of values. Limitations for this study may be considered the use
photographs as proxies for embassies, the comparatively small sample size and its Eurocentric
focus. Despite these limitations, this study holds promise for a fruitful research agenda for
examining first, how and why values change over time; second, how architectural forms support
old or influence the occurrence of new and different values and third, if architecture matters, an
empirical study of individual perceptions may reveal how architecture is important for different
people. While there is substantial scholarship on the politics- architecture nexus, this study
compliments this impressive scholarship, demonstrating that values reflected in and through
architecture can be examined and measured empirically, and thus predicted by external factors.
While values exist throughout all human activity, in architecture they are frozen and thus
amenable to solid scientific examination because the function of political architecture is politics
and the form is value-laden. (Explaining Embassy Architecture, Natasha Dimitrova Guenov ,
May 2012)

I.2.2.8. Reviewing of some Case Studies

I.2.2.8.1 International
A. Typical Embassy Compound Site Plan, Drawing by Zimmer, Gunsul, Frasca, Inc.
Standard Embassy Design (SED), compound guidelines prefers a 10 acre relatively flat site,
accessible to the public they serve. A site close to mass transit is preferred. Consideration of site
accessibility, good soils, existing utilities, emergency services, neighboring properties, and
environmental factors such as site elevation and potential flooding are also factored into a
detailed real-estate study performed prior to acquisition of the property to determine the best
12

match with these parameters. The main building and focal point of the compound is called the
chancery and is supported by a utility building, warehouse, and service building often containing
the commissary (store) selling American goods. (See Figure 1)

There are typically three controlled access points to the compound; one for pedestrians
visiting the consulate, one for vehicular service and deliveries, and one for the main entry which
is a combined vehicle and pedestrian entrance for employees and visitors. Typically an outdoor
13

garden area is provided as a waiting area for the consular. Staff and visitor parking are remotely
located, outside the established compound perimeter wall or fence. Only official vehicles are
permitted within the compound.
The chancery building houses the offices of the State Department including: Executive
Office (Ambassador), General Administration, and other federal agencies having presence in the
country, Community Liaison, Cafeteria, and Health Unit. (See Figure 2)

14

B. Embassy of the Netherlands, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

A new European embassy in Africa is often an imposed (or at least imported) affair, using
materials and human resources brought from outside. The Dutch Embassy in Addis Ababa is
different. It was realised entirely by local contractors, using the only widely available local
construction material, concrete, coupled with Ethiopian stone and timber for the interior finishes.
The brief required new buildings for the ambassadors residence, chancellery and staff housing,
and the renovation of the existing deputy ambassadors house. Along the way (the project took
eight years to realise) a small school was added to the programmer.
15

The main building, an elongated horizontal volume of 140 by 15 meters, cuts across the
sloping terrain on an east-west axis. Around one third of the way down its length, a driveway
passes through it at first-floor level, separating the ambassadors residence from the chancellery.
The flat roof that unites the two parts is a roof garden accessed, where the topography permits,
from elevated pathways. Inside the chancellery, offices flank a ramped corridor that climbs the
gradient of the site, ending in a patio linked to the roof.

C. Ministry of Foreign Affair Iran

A Persepolis inspired modern building, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Tehran. A clear
copy of the palaces in Persepolis with double ramped stair ways, portico in the center of the
facade, high stone columns with double bull-headed capitals, stone reliefs of Persian guards with
spear. A simpler and smaller version of how the Persepolis and Susa Apadana palaces could look
like. The ministry is in Bagh-e Melli (Meydan-e Mashgh) in Tehran.

Ministry of Foreign Affair Tehran 2013/05/13

16

17

D. Iranian Embassy in London, Design by Dr. Armin Hohsen Daneshgar.

Iran is attempting to reinvent its reputation in the UK by building an embassy building in

central London featuring a contemporary art gallery and cultural center.

The Iranian foreign ministry has submitted a planning application for the six-story building
on a South Kensington street corner, featuring a dramatic cantilevered arch, acutely-angled walls
and irregularly punched-out windows, a recent architectural vogue. As its architect said the
building cost around 100m.

"The cube-shaped building at the corner could be accessed freely by the public and feature
exhibits such as contemporary artworks made by young Iranian artists," said Armin Daneshgar,
the Vienna-based Iranian architect who is working with a leading UK environmental engineer,

18

Battle McCarthy, to make the building sustainable. We believe Iran's rich cultures, especially
contemporary movements, are still largely unknown to the west."

I.2.2.8.2. Local
A. New U.S embassy in Manila

19

The Secretary of States Register of Culturally Significant Property: The U.S. Embassy in
Manila is tangible evidence of the American commitment to Philippine independence pledged in
1934 by the U.S. Congress. The Federal Modern style chancery, designed by Juan M. de
Guzman Arellano and completed in 1940, was initially the residence and offices of the U.S. High
Commissioner. Built on reclaimed land, a gift from the Philippine government, the building sits
on more than 600 reinforced concrete piles sunk sixty feet into the seaside site. Local reports at
the time praised its state- of-the-art construction, finding that its plain, compact, and solid
expression embodied efficiency, strength, and stability. (The Secretary of States Register of
Culturally Significant Property, page20, 2006)

20

B. New Korean Embassy in Manila

Perspectives of Korean Embassy in Manila

Actual photo of Korean Embassy in Manila

It is 4 story building which is located at upper Mackinley road (lot 3), Mackinley Hills,
Taguig, Metro Manila in the 5,890.50 m2 lot and the total floor area of 4,753.00 m2. The
architect design interior and exterior regarding to the Korean traditional spacing patterns and
symbols.

21

Korean Embassy in Manila- Floor Plan

22

Chapter I.3

Research Methodology

I.3.1.Research Design

In this research, mixed method used in order to achieve the research findings. An onlinebased questionnaire survey and Interview have been conducted to be answered from the
respondents who are facilitys staffs, the Iranian students who are living in Manila, their families
who came here to visit their children, the Filipinos with Iranian spouse and their children, those
Filipinos who are learning Persian language (Farsi) and those Muslim Filipinos who are
attending the classes of learning Quran in this center to reach to the existing issues concerning
the facilities of this part of the Iranian Embassy in Manila.

And at the end, review the guideline, rules and regulations for the standard planning and
designing of diplomatic facilities, as well as a review on case studies.

Research Design: Case Study

Case Study 1.Cultural Center

The case study is a walk-observation to the facility of Consulate and Cultural Center of
Iranian Embassy in Manila, determining, identifying and confirming the problematic issues of
the facility.

23

The Islamic Republic of Irans Cultural Counsellorship under the jurisdiction of the Islamic
Culture and Relations Organization (ICRO), with the aim of introducing Islam, the culture,
tradition, civilization and art of Iran to the Filipino nation was established in January 20,
1990. By the 1996 more room for cooperation was opened with the signing of the Cultural
Agreement between the two nations.

The pervious Cultural Center and Consulate of Iranian embassy in manila was located at
No. 16 Santa Potenciana Street, Urdaneta Village, Makati City, Metro Manila, Philippines.

Previous Iranian Cultural Center

24

Since it was a small rented residence and it was not able to answer the needs of its users, they
decided to transfer to the much bigger place which is owned by the Islamic Republic of Iran.

The new facility is located at No 105A, 452 EDSA (Southbound), Guadalupe Viejo, Makati
City, Metro Manila, exactly adjacent to EDSA and 9 min walk to the Guadalupe MRT station,
and base on its vision and mission, they are looking toward cultural commonalities between the
two nations and strengthening them, seeking more ways of cultural, artistic, scientific and sports
development cooperation and other similar activities are among the duties of this office. This is
carried out by taking part in different film festivals, sponsoring Irans cultural weeks, meeting
with friendship societies members and cultural characters, holding cultural seminars, Holy
Quran teaching, facilitating Interfaith Dialogues, sponsoring exhibitions on books, posters,
artifacts, teaching of Persian language as well as other forms of art, doing cultural research, book
publication and carrying out the rest of the cultural exchange activities between the two nations.

Location of Iranian Cultural Center

25

Distance of Iranian Cultural Center to MRT station

Base on studied research, site visit and Interviews, even this new building is not useful enough
and it doses t have all the necessary facilities and spaces to answer the needs of its users .

Iranian Cultural Center Only Entrance

26

In spite the fact that location of the building makes the commuting much easier than the previous
one (regardless the dirty and smelly side walk from MRT station to the building), it makes the
facility suffer by noise of the vehicles, train and the pollution of heavy traffic in EDSA.

Side walk-MRT station to Iranian Cultural Center

Even they newly designed its main faade; since its front set back is more than the adjacent lots,
it doesnt have vision clarity (esp. when you are driving toward Makati).

Iranian Cultural Center Facade

27

And no taxi and car can stop in front of its entrance since it doesnt have a drop-off area and the
road is always used by the high speed vehicles.

Adjacency of Iranian Cultural Center with EDSA

When people get in the site from its main entrance, they will face only 40 cm wide, pathway
going to the classrooms and the auditorium at its left side and then 8 steep stairs to the building
entrance door in the front.

Steep stairs to the entrance door

28

40cm-wide walk way connecting the main entrance to the classrooms and auditorium.

The main problems inside the building is listed below based on the interviews and site
observation:

1.There is no proper fire exit in the floors and spaces

2. Doors and openings are not placed in order to safty codes

3.The building is suffering beacuase of not having enogh openings to get the natural sun light
and ventilation.

4.There are some conflicts in space programming of building such as interupting the public,
semi public and private zone all together .

5.the staircases are so steep and without any openings.

6.the building dosen t have spacefic parking area or pick-up/drop-off space

29

Male Auditorium and the AVRs

control room at its corner

Female Auditorium with no fire exit

and no proper interior design

Steep stairs from ground floor to 2nd

floor

30

Ongoing Construction site which is a high rise building at the rear side of the lot

Library room without any window

Vacant space which sometimes used as a parking area for the staff
31

Schematic Floor Plan of Cultural Center of Iranian Embassy in Manila:

Ground Floor Plan- free hand

2nd Floor Plan- free hand

3rd Floor Plan- free hand

32

Base on the observation through the site visit around the building,we can filter the overall
behavioral paterns of the facilitys users.

Public
BORROWING
BOOK/SEAT IN

ENTRY

LOBBY

LIBRARY

ENTRY

LOBBY

GYM

ENTRY

GARDEN

AUDITORIUM
HALL

EXIT

ENTRY

GARDEN

CLASSROOM

EXIT

EXIT

Semi-Public
ENTRY

PUBLIC
LOBBY

GUESS HOUSE

EXIT

ENTRY

PUBLIC
LOBBY

CONFERENCE ROOM

EXIT

ENTRY

PUBLIC
LOBBY

OFFICE

ENTRY

GARDEN

Private
EXIT

CONSULATE RESIDANCE
IN 3RD FLOORFLOOR

33

EXIT

EXIT

Case Study 2. Consulate and Embassy of Islamic Republic of Iran

Address: 2224 Paraiso corner Pasay, Dasmarinas Village, Makati City, Philippines

Consulate and Embassy of Islamic Republic of Iran

34

840 sq.m lot in Dasmarias Village, Makati, is the main Iranian embassy building in the
Philippines (exclusive from ambassador residence).
Its design is a typical residential house which just transformed to an embassy of Iran just by
adding some wooden or glass partitions.

Consulate and Embassy of Islamic Republic of Iran-Manila

Its a big middle lot along EDSA just nearby Ayala MRT station and bus stations. It has only one
entry/exit for the ambassador, staff, consul and public all together.
Even it has a good access to the public transportation system, MRT3, but since its locate in
the middle of residential zone, Dasmarinas Village, its far from any convenient stores, banks or
any other needed areas and a the only public space can be used whenever you go to the embassy,
is a 15sq.m room which doesnt have even specific restroom for public and it cannot
accommodate all the visitors regarding the consulate, visa sector, students affairs and etc. and it
make the visitors feeling uncomfortable there.
35

Schematic Floor Plan of Iranian Embassy in Manila

The main problems inside the building is listed below based on the interviews and site
observation:

1.There is no proper security for the site

2. there is only 1 counter for everything, visa sector, students affairs consulate ,etc.

3.There are conflicts in space programming of building such as interupting the public,
semi public and private zone all together .

4. The building dosen t have spacefic parking area or pick-up/drop-off space

6 The building dosen t have enough space for its public services function

7.There are no convenient stores, banks or any other needed areas

8. The building design is not based on Iranian architecture

36

I.3.2.Population and sampling

Study has been done on the chosen from the 5 different groups of users:
1. Pure Iranians
2. Pure Filipinos
3.

Iranian-Filipinos (half-blood)

4. Pure Filipinos, those who have an Iranian spouse.

5. Other nationalities

I.3.3.Research Instruments
These are the tools have been used in gathering data in the study of Iranian Consulate and
cultural center in Manila. These will be the basis for the identifying the particular need in the
study and making a reliable source for future refrences.in this study we have been used interview
and observation.

I.3.3.1.Random Sampling
Asking directly toward the user in action, that can define the issues of the place, and its
thoughts in the situation, this occurs by asking questions for much needed information for the
interviewee verbally and directly.
Interviewees have been chosen from the 4 different groups of users; Iranians, Filipinos,
Iranian-Filipinos and Filipinos including those who have an Iranian spouse also.

37

I.3.3.2.Observation

It is the direct means of identifying the current facility of the complex, the direct means of
studying the flow, movement of the people in the facility, the used of the spaces and identifying
what is in the facility. Site visit is performed in order to commit this method and lead us to these
main problems: no proper fire exit in the floors and spaces/ not following the safty code in door
sweengs and place of openings/ not having natural sun light and ventilation/ conflicts in space
programming of building/steep stairs/ lack of spacefic parking area/lack of pick-up/drop-off
area.

I.3.3.3.Rules and regulation in designing oversees missions facilities

st

In the 21 century, the international environment is endlessly changing. The rapid

development of information and communication technology has allowed countries to interact
daily beyond their physical distances, making the world into one country. This has also allowed
all countries to maximize their national profile and benefit from the cooperative relationship with
other countries. Diplomacy makes all this possible. As the importance of diplomacy rises, all
countries are putting careful consideration in the establishment of their diplomatic and consular
offices a place for diplomatic activities and these offices are being bought or built depending on
the situation of the country of residence.

38

Embassies are the most important diplomatic monuments. Embassies are typically formed
from three main distinctive:
The first part is diplomatic offices of ambassadors, diplomatic advisor, financial advisor or other
expedition groups in the host country. This section usually includes the general diplomatic
secretary, archives, lobby and encrypted rooms. Some countries prefer to isolate the offices of
the ambassador and his secretary and create a special subset diplomatic sector. This section of
the embassy is controlled and it has protected access.
The second part is administrative offices which financial affairs and administrative staff have
been deployed to deal with individuals and local institutions.
The third part is service spaces which is including facility rooms, dining, kitchen, storage, and
library and so on.
Entering to the embassy is happening through the special space hierarchy. In designing of the
embassy, boundaries and the control of movement and the security is so important and sensitive.
Usually there is a box area at the entrance of embassy, which has some counters so visitors can
contact the embassy staff from there. Walls and counters are often anti-theft and anti-bullet. If
guests will be allowed to enter the embassy, he/she will be driven to the office sector. Access to
the diplomatic sector is usually done through the other controlled door.
The most sensitive part of embassy is its security token and telecommunications room which
has a very robust and controlled door in diplomatic sector.

39

Staff entrance is different from public entrance, however, designing a buffer space between
outside and inside, for the persons and vehicles entrance, will increases embassy security
coefficient.
Embassies are representatives of foreign countries in the host countries and their main task is
to establish friendly relations between the two countries and at the same time they are
responsible for protecting the rights of their fellow citizens.
Embassies become shelters for its citizens, peoples who have visited the host country as
tourism, business, immigration, medical treatment etc., in the host country in case of
emergencies.
Embassies often have facilities for dealing with crisis situations such as earthquakes, natural
disasters, war, civil conflict, and more and in the countries where the risk of a crisis is higher,
they should be able to accommodate a large number of people, even it is temporary.
The most important thing is having wide open space inside the embassy, which under normal
conditions can be used in various ceremonies, landscape or sports field and having adequate
toilets, grocery storage (which is revised every year), first aid, blankets and tents storage, fuel
storage, water and electric generator with sufficient power are necessary.
In countries like the Philippines, where there is a higher possibility of natural disasters,
embassies and its installations must be such that those conditions dont interrupted the building
functionality.
For safety reasons, embassies preferred to have separate parking spaces for employees which
can be incorporated into these open spaces.

40

Some embassies are considered a space for cultural programs, Cultural Center; and it should
not interfere with the embassys traffic flow.
Other diplomatic building is consulate which is sometimes built independent with embassy
building.
Consulates which are referred to native affairs have more clients rather than embassies.
Entrance and waiting area should be bigger in this sector regarding to having more visa clients.In
consulate building, spacing is much easier regarding to protection and security. There should be
only separation between the visitors and staffs. The staff sector needs to have public office,
service spaces and a big archive.

Major activities of cultural centers are looking toward cultural commonalities between the
two nations and strengthening them, seeking more ways of cultural, artistic, scientific and sports
development cooperation and other similar activities are among the duties of this office. This is
carried out by taking part in different film festivals, sponsoring cultural weeks, meeting with
friendship societies members and cultural characters, holding cultural seminars, facilitating
Interfaith Dialogues, sponsoring exhibitions on books, posters, artifacts, teaching of language as
well as other forms of art, doing cultural research, book publication and carrying out the rest of
the cultural exchange activities between the two nation. Cultural centers usually need to have
these areas: meeting spaces, a library, classrooms, offices, major service areas like kitchens,
bathrooms, storage, etc.

41

Chapter I.4

Summary of Findings and Analysis

This chapter will present datas and presentation in order to further understand the collected
data and informations.

I.4.1.In this study the collected data will be presented in graphical method and figures to

understand the complexity of the problem, the proponent can easily discuss the problem on it.

Brio Tower &

State
Condominium
V
TKC heavy
Industries
Corporation

Jackbilt
Industries

North
THE
Consulate &
Cultural
Center of
Iranian
Embassy In
Manila

loyola
Memorial
Chapel

MRT Station

EDSA

Figure I.4.1

As it has been shown in the graph, MRT Station is located at its North-East with the distance of 9
min walk. At the back, North-West, there is an ongoing construction and its going to be a high

42

rise tower in the short time. EDSA is located exactly adjacent to the building at its South-East.
TKC heavy Industries Corp. and Jackbilt Industry are also at its North-West.

Modes of Transportation
4
10
33

PRIVATE VEHICLES
TAXI

15

MRT
BUS
JEEPNEY

38

Figure I.4.2

Base on the chart above, the majority of the users take taxi for commuting to the facility and the
2nd major mode of transportation is private vehicles which illustrate that the location of the
building is not in the comfort zone in terms of public transportation even though its near to
MRT/Bus station.

43

Activities of Users in the Facility

15
Occasions(Cultural & Religious)
10

Classes
GYM & Fitness

52

Library
Diplomatic Meeting

20

Figure I.4.3

Base on the chart above, the majority activity is happing on the especial occasions and its
followed by classes, diplomatic meetings and the rest however less than 3% of the people use the
gym and fitness.

I.4.2.Presentation of the Collected Data: Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats

Analyses on the Strengths of the Facility
The following Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats are based on the statements
of the Interviewee and observations through the Case Study.

44

Analyses on the Strengths of the facility

It has been observed that they planned to come up with lots of beneficial services and they
are successful in hosting the occasions and ceremonies.
Analyses on the Weaknesses of the facility

1.there is no proper fire exit in the floors and spaces

2. doors and openings are not placed in order to safty codes

3.the building is suffering beacuase of not having enogh openings to get the natural sun
light and ventilation.

4.there are some conflicts in space programming of building such as interuption of the
public, semi public and private zone all together .

5.the staircases are so steep and without any openings.

6.the building dosen t have spacefic parking area or pick-up/drop-off space

7.there is no cafeteria in the site or near it.

8. Wasting money on buying an expansive lot adjacent to EDSA which is not beneficial
in the terms of its functionality beside the location is not a satisfactory.

45

I.4.3.Need Analysis
In this part, different analysis on given figures are stated in order to satisfy the needed
information. The following are the needs of the complex:

Well planned users circulation

Landscaping for noise and pollution barriers

Waiting sheds and sheds for the open yard

Well ventilated and adequate natural light for establishments

Proper spaces for parking area and drop off

Special design of building as a symbol of Iranian Culture and Believes

46

I.4.4.Conclusion and Recommendation

Based on the studied gathered data the Iranian Consulate and Cultural Center in Manila, with
the determined characters on the weaknesses, threats and strength of the complex, such results
and data may vary and other may not be as accurate and defined but following the systematical
analysis of data and information we determined what is needed in the complex its lacking factors
for development and advantages. Therefore, proponent will propose a New Consulate and
Cultural Center for the Iranian Embassy in Manila.

47

Chapter II

Research Focus
II.1 Rational
Diplomatic building typically consists of three separated major parts:
A. Embassy
B. Administrative
C. Cultural Consulate and Business Consulate.

A) The Embassy, which includes the office of Ambassador, diplomatic adviser, Economic
Adviser and other expeditions and also consists of diplomatic secretary room, archive, lobby and
password rooms. This section of the embassy has high level of protection and access control.
(Loeffler, 1989)
B) Administrative Office, which include the Finance and Administrative staffs office.
C) Consulate is another diplomatic building which sometimes built independent with the
embassy building and is the place for Native Affairs and fellow patrons. (Loeffler, 1989)
D) Cultural Consulate and Business Consulate which its functionality can be narrow or very
wide is dependent on the relation of host and guest country and can present such services like
cultural activities, exhibitions, performances, concerts, festivals and Library, classrooms, offices
48

and service spaces such as kitchens, health services, warehouse and etc. and for Business
Consulate its task is to help businessmen and industrialists of its country to find new markets in
the host country and to inform local businesses about what is available in his country. It has
some common areas like office spaces and meeting rooms.
The followings are some factors affecting the design of embassies (3):
1) Review of embassies location- Embassies usually locate in important, historical or
urban zones and mostly near to other embassies.
2) Effective approaches to the design of the building- Case study of different embassies.
3) Goodwill or security- In designing of embassies there should be double attention to
some issues like historical, psychological, social, functional, and cultural and the
architect should pay attention to the listed matters as matter of the host country and guest
country.
4) Type of property or ownership- Countries cannot buy and owned whatever and
wherever they want, and it should follow different laws in different countries and
municipal.

_____________________________
3

Base on Architectural characteristic of overseas facilities by Majid Yazdani, member of faculty

council, Khavaran University, Iran.
49

Chapter II.2 Principle and Relevance to the Project

The site and location of an embassy or consulate should be practical as well as symbolic
implications, ensure the safety of the mission enhance the conduct of diplomacy, and best
represent its government and values,so here we are going to identify a feasible site as a preferred
site and these are the main perimeter zones & components of the location and site of diplomatic
facility:

A. Zone 1: Streetscape

B. Zone 2: Main Entrance

C. Zone 3: Parking

1. Staff Parking

2. Official Visitor Parking

D. Zone 4: Consular Entrance

E. Zone 5: Service Entrance

F. Zone 6: Adjacent Properties

And here are perimeters in Designing Embassy which shouldnt neglect.

Site Analysis

Threat/Risk Analysis

50

Barrier Selection

Landscape

Reperesentational Elements

Sustainability

Figure II.2.1 - Process Diagram

51

II.3 Application to the Project

Here, there are some examples of anti-ram which can use for diplomatic facilities without
being obvious of its concept.

Figure II.3.1- anti-ram protection

52

Figure II.3.2- anti-ram protection

Figure II.3.3- anti-ram protection

53

Figure II.3.4- anti-ram protection with available more setback distance

Figure II.3.5- anti-ram protection when more pedestrian space is needed

54

Figure II.3.6- an example of anti-ram knee

Figure II.3.7- different types of anti-ram wall

55

Figure II.3.8- sample elevation of anti-ram wall

Figure II.3.9- example of anti-ram bollard

56

Figure II.3.10- actual examples of anti-ram

Figure II.3.11- anti-ram

57

Figure II.3.12- setback and anti-climb

Figure II.3.13- Buffers, seating, barriers

58

Figure II.3.14- Buffers, seating, barriers

Figure II.3.15- Buffers, seating, barriers

59

Chapter III

Site Identification and Analysis

Site Selection Process
III.1.1.Criteria for Site Selection

Site selection inception is a multi-step process and base on Overseas Buildings Operations
(OBO) (4) the following should be concider as the keystone characteristics of all diplomatic sites:
Criteria 1- Location promoting a sense of openness, accessibility, and transparency through
location; Proximity to key host-government facilities, embassies of other countries,
and businesses and cultural centers;
Criteria 2- Development preferred areas and neighborhoods in the city, in urban area and
underdeveloped areas.
Criteria 3- Security (a) Access: To enhance emergency response, life safety and procedural
security, a minimum of two noncontiguous access points for entry/exit to streets for
vehicles as they enter or exit the embassy or consulate compound is required. Both
streets should allow bi-directional options for vehicles.

_____________________________
4

Conduct Multi-disciplinary Site Evaluation Using Consistent Evaluation Criteria (CT:OBO-36;10-312013)

60

(b) Transportation adjacencies: Sites adjacent to elevated roadways, waterways with

active watercraft traffic, active rail lines, or sites within one mile of an airport's
property boundary, will generally not be considered for acquisition;
(c) Neighborhood risks: Sites in proximity to areas with high crime, gang activity,
terrorist activity, military, or similar activity that pose high levels of risk for mission
personnel, will generally not be considered for acquisition;
(d) Unacceptable neighbors: Adjacent properties occupied by unacceptable neighbors
defined as state security, intelligence, police, shooting ranges, large commercial
shopping, heavy industrial processing and storage facilities, or similar facilities, will
generally not be considered for acquisition; and
(e) Crowd potential: Sites in proximity to facilities designed for use by very large
crowds (sports stadiums, entertainment arenas, or public parks known for their
potential to attract large crowds), will generally not be considered for acquisition.
Criteria 4- Communications An urban setting that provides connectivity to public
transportation and infrastructure, making the mission accessible to visitors and
clients.
Criteria 5- Planning/Zoning Roadway adjacencies and site geometry that allow for clear
separation of embassy and consular functions, public circulation from employee and
service flows, and future expansion.
Criteria 6- Environmental attributes it shouldnt be in Geo-Hazard zone and areas facing
natural disaster.
61

III.1.2.Site Option Description

Site1. 2224 Paraiso corner Pasay, Dasmarinas Village, Makati City, Philippines

Owner: Islamic Republic of Iran

STRENGTHS

WEAKNESSES

THREATS

Near to MRT & Bus

Adjacent to crowded,

Far from any Bank, ATM machine,

polluted and noisy

Conveniance store

road,EDSA.
None

Adjacent to 1 road only

None

One Exit/Entrance

None

Residential Zone(against planning/zoning)

Hight Limit zone

Transportation adjacencies(against OBO)

Site2. 448 EDSA, Guadalupe Viejo,Makati City, Philippines

Owner: Islamic Republic of Iran

STRENGTHS
Near toMRT & Bus

WEAKNESSES

THREATS

Adjacent to crowded,

Far from any Bank, ATM machine,

polluted and noisy

Conveniance store

road,EDSA.
None
None

Adjacent to 1 road only

One Exit/Entrance

Transportation adjacencies

62

Site3. BLK. 11 Bonifacio North, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City

Owner: Fort Bonifacio Development Corporation (FBDC)

STRENGTHS

WEAKNESSES

THREATS

Location

None

None

Development

None

None

Security

None

None

Communications

None

None

Planning/Zoning

None

None

Environmental attributes

None

None

Big enough for Cultural

None

None

Center + Consulate

Site Matrix:
SITE

CRITERIA CRITERIA CRITERIA CRITERIA CRITERIA CRITERIA

TOTAL

17

Legend:

0 Not Applicable / 1 Satisfactory / 2 Good / 3 Excellent

63

III.1.3.Site Selection and Justification

Base on the tables above and the Site Matrix, Site3. BLK. 11 Bonifacio North, Fort
Bonifacio, Taguig City is reaching to higher grade in terms of CriteriasScore so it is the best lot
among the other tow for the propose facility with the total grade of 17 out of 18 and with the big
difference to the other 2 sitesgrade.

64

III.2.1.Site Evaluation and Analysis

III.2.1.The Macro Setting
Location: BLK. 11 Bonifacio North, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City
Owner: Fort Bonifacio Development Corporation (FBDC)
The lot is originally Commercial, it s flat and vecant, ready for builing a structure.

65

No Flood,
No Earthquake line,
Not adjacent to
heavy Industry zone

66

III.2.2.The Micro Setting

Proposed lot:
Adjacent to Embassy
of Republic of
Singapore
Corner lot
Adjacent to 2-way
streets
Walking distance to
BGC-west route bus
stop
10min walk to Sm
Aura and 15min to
Market-Market
67

Chapter III.3 Site Development Options

North

Site Analysis:

Area: 4,310 sq.m

No Flood
No Earthquake line
Not adjacent to heavy Industry zone
68

Sample site development plan with 3 Entry/Exit

Why dose it need at least 3 Entrance/Exit ?

1st entry/exit: For Embassy and Consulate Staff and Personels
2nd entry/exit: For Visitors of Consulate
3rd entry/exit: For the use of Public and Cultural Centers users and visitors

69

Site Development Plan (I)

Site Development Plan (II)

70

References

Mohammad Amin Riahi , Sefaratkhaneh Iran

Natasha Dimitrova Guenova Natasha D. Guenova, FORM FOLLOWS VALUES.

Donna McIntire, Architect, Standard Embassy Design meets LEED, LEED U.S. Department of State
OBO/PE/DE/ADB SA-6 1701 N.
_Lum, E (2004) Architecture as Conceptual Art?, Harvard design magazine, Number 19, fall 2003/- Winter 2004.
Building Abroud No 69 Borrowing identity _AD Magazine (1999) No 63 _World Architecture ( 1998) No 5
_Architectural Record (1993) Architecture of Diplomacy Princetion Newyork 1998) ( Jane C _Loeffler
B,sen: Diplomats, Handbooks of international law andpractice, 3, ed, martinus -Nijhoff,1988._ BEN-ASHER:
Human Rights meet diplomatic immunities: problems and possiblesolutions Harvard Law School, SJD Candidate,
Harvard Law School; LL.M., November 2000 M.Juris., Oxford; LL.B.
Majid Yazdani and Shiva Sherafatniya, Characteristic of Overseas Architecture

INTERNET RESOURCES:
American Academy of Diplomacy www.academyofdiplomancy.org
American Institute of Architects www.aia.org
Center for Strategic and International Studies www.csis.org
U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Overseas Buildings Operations www.state.gov www.state.gov/obo
http://www.iranembassyjp.com
http://www.iranembassy.de
http://www.iranianconsulate.com

71

Appendices

Site Location

72

73

Risk Maps

GEOLOGY AND PHYSIOLOGY

74

Slope Distribution
Category

Slope

Description

0-2%

2-5%

Gently sloping to gently undulating

5-8%

Undulating to gently rolling

8-15%

Gently rolling to rolling

Level to nearly level

SOURCE of raw data : BSWM

STRATEGIC LOCATION

CONCEPT DIAGRAM

75

Land Use

76

77

78