Modernism in Architecture 1946-1960s

Modernism (1946-1960s)

• Modernism gained momentum in the Philippines in 1946.
• In 1947, architects and engineers studied US and Latin American capitals to develop a master plan for Manila.
• Architectural styles from the US and Latin America heavily influenced the designs.
• The period emphasized rebuilding cities and infrastructure, demanding functional and cost-effective buildings.
• "Form follows function" – Louis Sullivan (1896)

Modernism Features

• Brise-soleil: Sun-shading devices reduce heat while maintaining a modern aesthetic.
• Glass Walls: Offer transparency and openness in design.
• Pierced Screens: Decorative and functional, providing shade and allowing airflow.
• Reinforced Concrete, Steel, and Glass: Used for strength and modernity.
• Cartesian Grids and Geometric Shapes: Featured for clean, functional design.
• Minimalism: Absence of decoration to emphasize form over ornamentation.

Space Age (1950s-1960s)

• Inspired by space exploration and futuristic designs.
• The mid-20th century space race fueled imaginative architects to push boundaries with forms and materials.
• Reinforced concrete, steel, and plastics were used to create innovative designs.
• Aerodynamic Forms: Streamlined, horizontal lines mimicking airplane wings and soaring structures.
• Parabolic Arches: Curving lines directed the eye upward, emphasizing height and grandeur.
• Futuristic Shapes: Featuring geometric forms, thin concrete shells, and folded structures resembling spacecraft or satellites.

Notable Figures and Post-War Works

• Cesar Homero Concio, Sr.: BS Civil Engineering graduate (1928), BS Architecture (1932).
• First Dean of Mapúa's Department of Architecture.
• First University Architect at UP Diliman.
• Sixth President of the Philippine Institute of Architects (PIA).
• Designed Melchor Hall, Church of the Risen Lord, and the Insular Life Building.
• Awarded Gold Medal of Merit by the Philippine Institute of Architects (1964) and Patnubay ng Sining at Kalinangan (1969).
• Notable networks include being the father-in-law of Charo Santos-Concio.
• Federico Ilustre: BS Architecture graduate, Licensure Exam passer (1937).
• Consulting Architect (1950s-1970s).
• Supervising Director of Bureau of Public Works.
• Designed the Quezon Memorial Monument, all government buildings in Diliman Quadrangle, and Quezon Elliptical Road.
• Angel E. Nakpil: BS Architecture (1936), Masters in Regional Planning (1940).
• City Planning Commissioner of Manila (1947-1949).
• Dean of the UST School of Architecture (1959-1961).
• Designer of the National Press Club building and Picache Building.
• Awarded Patron ng Sining at Kalinangan (1974).
• Alfredo J. Luz: BA Architecture graduate (1949) from University of California, Berkeley.
• Brother of National Artist Arturo Luz.
• Designed the Ramon Magsaysay Center, the World Health Organization Building, the Menzi Building, and many more.
• Otilio Arellano: Son of Arcadio Arellano and nephew of Juan Arellano.
• Restored the Metropolitan Theater formerly designed by Juan Arellano.
• Designed the National Bureau of Investigation.
• Felipe Mendoza: United Architect of the Philippines National Director (1979).
• Designed the Batasang Pambansa Complex, the Philippine Veterans Bank, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, and the Development Academy of the Philippines
• Awarded PRC Outstanding Architect of the Year (1982), UAP Likha Award (1982), and Patnubay ng Sining at Kalinangan (1976).
• Gabriel Formoso: BS Architecture graduate (1937) from the University of Sto. Tomas.
• Designed the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, the Metropolitan Museum of Manila.
• Received the Republic Cultural Heritage Award (1973) and the PRC Outstanding Architect of the Year (1979) , and Patnubay ng Sining at Kalinangan (1977).
• Carlos Arguelles: BS Architecture graduate(1940) from the University of Sto. Tomas and Masters in Architecture at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (1946)
• Designed The Philam Life Bldg. and Development Bank of the Philippines Bldg.
• Leandro Locsin: BS Architecture graduate (1940), Masters in Architecture at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (1946)
• Designed the Cultural Center of the Philippines, Parish of Holy Sacrifice, and Philippine International Convention Center.
• Awarded the National Artist for Architecture (1990), Arts and Culture Prize of the Fukuoka Asian Cultural Prizes.
• Francisco Mañosa:* BS Architecture graduate (University of Sto. Tomas)
• National Artist for Architecture.
• Designed the Coconut Palace, San Miguel Corporation HQ and EDSA Shrine.

Explore the evolution of modernism in Philippine architecture from 1946 to the 1960s. This quiz covers key features, influential materials, and design philosophies of the era, reflecting the balance between functionality and aesthetic appeal. Test your knowledge on prominent architectural trends and the impact of contemporary movements during this transformative period.