Ever wonder how lighting can transform your home’s interior? It’s more than just positioning light fixtures (though that’s important too!). Unlike color psychology, the effects of lighting are surprisingly versatile and impactful. And the real reason is actually just hiding in plain sight—LED light bulbs. But it’s not like you have to go through the […]
In the realm of architectural innovation, a new horizon emerges as Buensalido + Architects transforms into Barchan + Architecture. Embracing the name ‘Barchan,’ inspired by the graceful crescent-shaped dunes found in deserts, the firm signals a profound shift towards designs deeply rooted in their surroundings.
Harmonizing with Context
Since its inception in 2006 under the leadership of Architect Jason Buensalido, the firm has been a trailblazer, pushing the boundaries of conventional architecture with originality and ingenuity. Now, as Barchan + Architecture, they embark on a journey to redefine the relationship between built environments and nature.
The choice of ‘Barchan’ as the new identity speaks volumes about the firm’s philosophy. Like these natural formations, Barchan + Architecture seeks to create designs that seamlessly blend with their context, embodying a holistic approach to architecture. It’s not just about constructing buildings; it’s about crafting experiences that resonate with the environment and the people who inhabit it.
“The barchan symbolizes our belief in architecture shaped by context. Like barchans, our designs tell stories of nature and human aspiration, preserving memories and enabling new legacies,” Buensalido explains.
Shifting Sands: A Narrative of Evolution
The unveiling of their latest endeavor, the coffee table book “Shifting Sands”, serves as both a celebration of past achievements and a manifesto for the future. Authored by Edson Cabalfin and designed by Design for Tomorrow, the book offers a glimpse into Barchan + Architecture’s journey, showcasing their commitment to authenticity, altruism, aspiration, and advancement.
“Shifting Sands” is more than just a collection of photographs and projects; it’s a narrative of evolution—a testament to Barchan + Architecture’s transformative journey. Each page tells a story of innovation, creativity, and a deep-seated respect for nature. From the vibrant CIIT Philippines campus to the visionary Project Smarthome, every project is a reflection of the firm’s unwavering dedication to pushing boundaries and challenging norms.
But “Shifting Sands” is not just about looking back; it’s about looking forward. As Barchan + Architecture embraces this new identity, they invite us all to join them on a journey of exploration and discovery. Their vision extends beyond mere buildings; it encompasses a vision of a world where architecture serves as a bridge between humanity and the natural world—a world where design is not just functional but poetic, evoking emotions and inspiring change.
At the heart of Barchan + Architecture’s philosophy is a commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. They understand that the built environment has a profound impact on the world around us. They strive to minimize that impact through thoughtful design and innovative solutions. Whether it’s integrating green spaces into urban landscapes or utilizing renewable materials, sustainability is at the core of everything they do.
The Power of Collaboration
This new chapter showcases how the firm’s design practices have evolved into a team effort. Together with Barchan’s key management VP of Admin, Finance, and Culture ArchitectNikki Boncan-Buensalido, VP of Operations & Associate Architect Ems Eliseo, Associate Architect for Design and Lead Project Architect Jerome Bautista, and Associate Architect for Culture and Lead Project Architect Cholo Ramirez, the firm shares it has adopted a more mature design practice that will explore new ways to express culture in architecture and improve lives through design.
Barchan + Architecture is more than just a name change. It’s a statement of intent—a declaration of their commitment to creating a better, more sustainable world through design. As we turn the pages of “Shifting Sands” and embark on this journey with them, we can’t help but feel inspired by the possibilities that lie ahead.
Are you tight on space but want to showcase your cooking creativity? Living in a smaller home doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your culinary dreams. If you have a galley kitchen, we got some space hacks to maximize functionality without sacrificing an inch of style. The Galley and its Backstory The galley kitchen originated in […]
Conceived by Dua Studio, the Half Half House is a renovation project that equally distributes old and new forms. It’s a balancing act of preservation, transformation, and addition that makes this home stand out amongst the urban fabric of Karawaci, Indonesia. The structure responds to its context by virtue of its scale and orientation as […]
When designing a space, building a color palette is a crucial step you cannot skip. You often combine varieties of neutral and solid colors to create a balanced and harmonious look. Sometimes, you even consult the color wheel and rely on color theory to ensure your color selection is on point. But, what if you […]
The AM House is a garden retreat that offers its users refuge within the rural landscape of Can Giuoc, Vietnam. It employs a fragmented layout of separate blocks unified underneath the home’s unifying roof. This affords the home a dynamic range of openings and spatial compositions tied together by three young architects, each having their […]
Anecdotal Evidence is the new exhibit by Audrey Lukban currently being shown at MO_Space in Bonifacio Global City. Showing at the gallery from April 27 to May 26, the works feature paintings of everyday objects depicted in new and exotic ways. In their write-up about the exhibit, James Luigi Tana said that Lukban’s work for […]
