Born out of the need to address urban migration in Manila, Habitat 27 aims to provide temporary housing options for the working class Filipino. The working class, which majority belongs to the middle class, are unable to afford permanent housing inside the Metropolis. By providing compact temporary shelter and low cost cell modules, the project aims to lessen the need for land transportation of the general population. Envisioning a utopia of resilience, Metabolism employs biological metaphors and evokes the notion of a recreatable genetic architecture in vernacular forms. It mediates urbanism of large technical, and institutional infrastructures and the individual freedom with an architecture of customized cells and adaptable temporary configurations of dwellings, which could expand and shrink according to need.Built to address the future development in Pandacan, the project responds to its site by integrating brownfield remediation and community participation. Habitat 27 is the unity of man and nature and the evolution of society into a single living organism, set in the urban context of Pandacan.

Sunken ParkZoning public amenities on the bottom, and excavating the lower ground floor generates more area for public interaction. Decongestion of alleys and sidewalks promotes healthy interaction between tenants and the general public. Vista from the elevated portion ensures the other edge of the market is still visible.

PilotiConstructing structures on  stilts had been Filipinos way of living since Pre-colonial era. This concept retains the surface runoff from heavy rains, and stores them inside until the it can be drained to the river. This integrated spillway concept can reduce the chances of river overflow and damage to properties.

MetabolismIt is a common sight for urban areas to cut trees to pave way for development. The skeletal grid system completely eradicates the need for separating flora, fauna, and human settlements. At times when trees die, or tenants leave, the community can always change the configuration of the grid, creating a future environment that responds, adapts, and develops with each sector.

EsplanadePasig river holds so much potential to Manila. The development of an esplanade shall not only generate public appreciation to the river, but also be a buffer in times of storms and inundation.

Structural DiagramThe floating mass, inspired by the vernacular bahay kubo, is  supported by two cores where the structural supports are concentrated. Vents, light tubes, and solid waste chutes are also located inside the core for a centralized utility system.

Capsule HotelsCapsule hotels are made for short term stays. Affordable value is made possible by minimizing space per customer. Provision of these amenities in Pandacan means workers have a place to stay in a short period, taking into consideration that they are working most of the day.

The project is an entry to Nippon Paints Philippines' Asia Young Designers Award 2017