Architecture Practice and History in the Philippines

Overview of Architecture Practice in the Philippines

• Architecture blends aesthetics and functionality in building design and planning.
• Client consultation, conceptualization, drafting, permits, and construction oversight are part of the process.
• The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) regulates the practice through licensure exams.
• Sustainable and vernacular architecture are important, considering climate and culture.
• Urbanization and modernization mix traditional and contemporary styles.

Historical Evolution of Architectural Firms

• Ancient architects oversaw design and construction, acting as master builders.
• The Renaissance saw individual architects gain recognition, like Leon Battista Alberti.
• Architectural partnerships, such as McKim, Mead & White, rose in the 19th century.
• The 20th century brought specialization and larger firms handling diverse projects.
• Globalization and technology have reshaped firms, adapting to demands in sustainability and technology.

History of Architectural Firms in the Philippines

• The Spanish colonial period influenced architecture with Spanish designs by friars and military engineers.
• American colonization introduced new styles, leading to Filipino architects like Juan Arellano.
• Mid-20th century saw modernist influences with architects like Leandro Locsin.
• The Martial Law era blended modern and traditional styles.
• Post-1986, globalization led firms to adopt international trends.
• Filipino firms contribute to sustainable design, cultural preservation, and innovation.

Composition of Architectural Firms

• Firms consist of architects, designers, project managers, drafters, and administrative staff.
• Leadership includes licensed architects as partners or principals.
• The design team collaborates from concept to construction supervision.
• Support staff handles administration, with specialists for sustainability or interior design.
• Firm size varies from small boutique to large multidisciplinary firms.

Allied Professionals for Architectural Firms

• Firms collaborate with allied professionals like civil, mechanical, and electrical engineers
• Landscape architects, interior designers, urban planners, surveyors, and environmental consultants also collaborate.
• Civil engineers ensure structural safety.
• Mechanical and Electrical Engineers take care of HVAC, lighting, and electrical requirements.
• Landscape Architects work on exterior design and green spaces.
• Interior Designers focus on interior spaces and aesthetics.
• Urban Planners align designs with city planning and zoning.
• Surveyors provide site measurements.
• Environmental Consultants address sustainability and environmental impact.
• This integration delivers comprehensive solutions.

Allied Businesses for Architectural Firm

• Construction Companies bring designs to life.
• Material Suppliers provide structural and finishing materials.
• Real Estate Developers partner on large-scale projects.
• Technology Consultants offer insights on architectural software like BIM.
• Legal Consultants assist with zoning laws and permits.
• Marketing and PR Agencies promote the firm's projects and brand.
• These alliances ensure project delivery and business success.

How to Start an Architectural Firm in the Philippines

• You need proper education and a license from the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC).
• It is best to gain work experience in established architectural firms to improve your skills
• Prepare a comprehensive business plan covering vision, services, target market, financial projections, and marketing strategy.
• You need to register with agencies, such as the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) or Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
• It is best to acquire Suitable office space that meets the firm's office needs
• You need to invest in architecture-related equipment and software for effective design and management.
• Form a team with diverse skills, including architects, drafters, and administrative members.
• Form a strong professional network in the architecture and construction industries by joining local professional organizations.
• Build a strong online presence with your portfolio and use social media platforms.
• Maintain strong relationships with clients, contractors, and collaborators.
• Make sure designs follow local building codes, regulations, and standards.

Culture and Impact of Starting a Business in the Philippines

• Building strong relationships is vital, with Filipinos valuing personal connections.
• Hierarchy is common, with business leaders respected.
• Punctuality is important, but "Filipino Time" allows for flexibility.
• Family can greatly can influence decisions
• Compliance with government regulations and permits is crucial.
• Patience is important when dealing with bureaucratic processes.
• A key to market success is understanding preferences of the people.
• Being adaptable is important for long-term success.
• Build strong relationships within the local community for new opportunities
• Sensitivity to cultural differences is vital in communication and interactions.
• Resilience aids in facing challenges during economic changes.

Who Owns Architectural Firms?

• Sole proprietorship, owned and operated by a single architect.
• Partnerships, where two or more architects share ownership and management.
• Limited Liability Partnership (LLP), which offers liability protection while allowing management flexibility.
• Corporation with ownership divided into shares.
• Limited Liability Company (LLC), a mix of partnership and corporation structures.
• Factors like liability protection and tax considerations affecting the choice of structure affect ownership.

Where to Register an Architectural Firm Business

• Start by registering your business name with the DTI if operating as a sole proprietorship. If you are building a partnership or corporation, registration should be done with the SEC.
• Secure a Mayor's Permit from the local government.
• Register with the BIR for tax purposes.
• Ensure all architects are licensed with the PRC.
• Secure a Barangay Clearance from the local barangay office.
• Register with the SSS for employee benefits and PhilHealth for health insurance.
• If applicable, register with the Pag-IBIG Fund for housing-related benefits.

Difference Between DTI and SEC

• DTI registers business names and regulates sole proprietorships and partnerships.
• SEC regulates corporations, partnerships, and associations, overseeing securities and corporate law compliance.
• DTI registration applies to small and medium enterprises.
• SEC registration is essential for entities structured as corporations, including those issuing stock.

When to Register a Firm in PRBOA

• Architectural firms themselves do not register with the PRBoA.
• Individual architects within the firm must be registered with the PRC and hold Professional Identification Cards (PICs)

What is PRBOA

• Professional Regulation Commission Board of Architecture regulates architecture practice in the Philippines.
• The PRBoA conducts examinations, issues licenses, enforces regulations, monitors professional development, establishes ethical standards, and accredits education programs.

INITIAL and NECESSARY INFORMATION

• Liaison Officers facilitate communication between groups and organizations.
• Special Power of Attorney (SPA) grants someone the authority to act on another's behalf.
• Building Permits are official documents from local governments for construction or demolition.
• The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) plans and maintains infrastructure projects.
• The Office of the Building Official (OBO) enforces building codes and issues permits.

BUILDING PERMIT GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

• Transfer Certificate of Title (TCT) proves real property ownership.
• Original Certificate of Title (OCT) is the original record of land ownership.
• Contract Of Lease is a legal agreement for renting land.
• Deed of Absolute Sale transfers property ownership.
• Deed of Donation transfers property ownership without monetary exchange.
• Tax Declaration provides property information for taxation.
• Tax Receipt acknowledges property tax payments.
• Barangay Clearance To Construct indicates the project follows local regulations.
• Deed Of Restrictions outlines construction limitations.
• Survey Plan provides land boundaries and dimensions.

Additional Information

• PTR certifies professional tax payment.
• PRC regulates professions and issues Professional IDs.
• CTC, also known as Cedula, certifies community tax payment.
• COSH is a safety and health program for workplaces.
• DOLE oversees labor and employment policies.
• Boring Tests assess subsurface conditions for construction.
• Bill of Materials (BOM) lists components needed for construction.
• Specifications detail construction standards and features.
• Electrical Design Analysis evaluates electrical system designs.
• Structural Design Analysis assesses structural stability and strength.
• Zoning Clearance for Building Permit confirms zoning compliance.
• Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) enforces fire safety regulations.
• Fire Safety Evaluation Certificate (FSEC) assesses fire safety preparedness.
• Zoning Clearance for an Occupancy Permit certifies zoning law compliance.

Certificates

• Fire Safety Inspection Certificate (FSIC) assesses fire safety compliance.
• Certificate of Occupancy (CO) indicates compliance with building codes and regulations.
• Certificate of Final Electrical Inspection (CFEI) certifies electrical work complies with codes.

Supplementary Permits and Certifications

• PCAB licenses Philippine contractors.
• LEED is a rating system for green buildings with points for sustainable sites, water efficiency, energy and atmosphere, materials and resources, indoor environmental quality, innovation, and regional priority.
• BERDE is a Philippine green building rating system.
• BERDE has categories: Site Sustainability, Energy Efficiency, Water Efficiency, Materials and Resources, Indoor Environmental Quality, Health and Well-being, and Innovation.