Project Title & Location
BIOSHELTER, MARYKNOLL ECOLOGICAL SANCTUARY
Campo Sioco, Baguio City

Client
MARYKNOLL SISTERS
Campo Sioco, Baguio City

Project Completion
1998

Associated Firms
ECT Consulting Engineers
PROS A&E

Services Provided
- Architectural and Engineering Design Services
- Programming and Concept Development
- Environmental Analysis and Assessment
- Planning of Access Systems and Utility Rerquirements
- Formulation of Design Standards and Guidelines

At the Maryknoll Ecological Sanctuary is located the sisters' abode. Not only does the bioshelter project show how an environment-responsive dwelling invite nature in, but also how to make use of nature as a governing element in design. The sun, wind and rain are natural features that can be utilized to make the bioshelter operate optimally. A significant bonus in this architectural statement is the ambience of spirituality in the place. This is heightened by personalized sleeping spaces and the play of volumes, light and shade.

The architectural massing of the bioshelter is derived from hierarchical growth that are transformed in architectural geometrics that truly reflect nature's development. The sleeping areas do not give emphasis on crampness, but the upward flow of lie in serene restfulness. Winding stairways expres the spiraling aspirations for the celestial being.

The Ecological Sanctuary where the Bioshelter is lcoated is very fortunate to have a resident artist from Ifugao who in his renditions voices out the native's desire to capture nature even in just a fleeting moment. The clear pyramidal roof structures, when viewed at a distance provide the iconic symbols of stability and energy. Overall the strcutures blend well with the concept that the sanctuary wants to bring out - the integrity of creation.