ZULUETA ARCHITECTURE

Check out our presentation on a Small House Plan, Bungalow Type, 880 SF. The house plan shows 2 bedrooms and an open living, dining and kitchen. ******************************************************************* www.zuluetaarchitecture.com info@zuluetaarchitecture.com

   A Pergola at the roof deck is a special outdoor feature that adds building value,  applicable for residential as well as commercial projects.  An inherent feature that the building should have is a good view – cityscape or landscape. A pergola promotes interaction between users and between user and the space itself. It also provides some shade for any outdoor event. Design it to withstand extremes in climate. This is critical to its long term use. The post and lintel type with beams and roof joists is a popular style. As much as possible, use natural elements like wood. Recycled wood can also be used, as long as it is treated properly. This can be complimented by various forms of landscaping. Maintaining the pergola should be looked into at the onset of the project. Take into consideration – cleaning, drainage and repairs.  Always build for longevity. Certainly, pergola is an attractive feature that will draw attention to your building,...

I recently worked on a house plan for my aunt Flora in Manila. The lot area is about 50 square meters or 540 square foot and is elongated. In Philippines, it is fairly common for extended families to live in one roof. Typical approach to increase living space in this case is to go vertical. Currently, the floor plans are showing 3 floors with a finished deck. I initially designed for 4 bedrooms, and one washroom per floor. Given the  limitations on the actual physical space, I truly believe that projects such as this  is an opportunity to be creative. It's a challenging, for sure. As designers, we are made to reflect and revisit our assumptions on treating  space. Then again, people across the world inhabit in such myriad of ways. Square footage is always a factor, but it is not everything. As what the  Swedish furniture retailer Ikea campaigns on-  Any space can be beautiful. B...