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 ...