ZULUETA ARCHITECTURE

I find that the Mezzanine issue is one the most confusing subjects in the building code. Even people in the industry is not aware as to what a mezzanine actually is. The biggest misunderstanding here is how big the area can be before it gets classified as a floor. Here is the code reference- a mezzanine is not considered a storey/ floor if It less than 40% of the open area of the floor below.  Most of the contractors and designers who do not deal with mezzanines extensively think it is 40% of the area below. No,  it is 40% of the open area below. There is a big difference right away. And here is another issue as well, some of these mezzanines gets approved at the City at development permit stage with oversized areas. Come building permit time, it gets a whole gamut of code issues. The way the permitting works in the City – development permit process is handled by planners and gets reviewed for building areas, density, zoning, parking. There might be a preliminary building cod...

Are you thinking of investing your money by buying a condominium unit in the Philippines? Or as a balikbayan, do you need a property that you can use while visiting? Here are things to consider in condo purchase: Location.   Check the condo’s location. The condo should be located in the city’s prime area. It should have access to major thoroughfares and nearby facilities i.e. - shopping centres, church, schools.   As a buyer and prospective resident, take a look at the neighborhood.   What are the other buildings in the vicinity? Is there a park? What is the community like – is it safe and secure? Bear in mind- you are not only purchasing a property, you would be assuming a certain lifestyle as well. Building Condition. What is the age of the building? Is this new construction? Has the building been maintained properly? The biggest problem encountered most specially for Philippine buildings is water leakage. It is prominent in flat roofs and can be seen on the ...

The internet and social media has made employment opportunities more accessible but also more competitive. So how do you stand up amongst the rest who are vying for the same work? One thing you can do is build a strong online presence through social media.   You can certainly showcase your qualifications, skills and portfolio online. It is fairly common these days for recruiters and employers to check your background online. Information is so easily accessible and public.   Always bear in mind that whatever is posted reflects you. So be cautious and take your time in building that information. One the other hand, you can also promote your image as a good worker, a professional or whatever persona that suits you.       One of the popular platforms for professional networking is Linked In. Linked In has a free account and you can create a resume for viewing by the general public.   If there are invitations from other linked in members, make sur...

Finally the long wait is over. You have received your permanent resident visa from the Canadian embassy.   What is the next stage and how do you prepare yourself for this new and big step in your life?   One of the major concerns is finding employment. It is common knowledge that licensed professionals with international training find it difficult to find work in their field of expertise. How do you prepare yourself so that you can overcome this problem?   Networking Prior to departure, network and create your Canadian contacts. Ask your Philippine based professional association if they have a counterpart in Canada. Research over the website for Filipino professional associations in your targeted area of residence.   Communicate within your circle and see whether there’s family or friends that have already migrated to Canada and touch base with them.   Networking prior to departure is very important. It will save you time. The informatio...