Nestled in the bustling heart of Salcedo Village, Oak & Smoke (O/S) is a restaurant where contemporary design meets the primal allure of open-flame cooking. Located on the ground floor of Pacquiao Mansion, this dynamic dining space is the brainchild of culinary power duo Chef Anna Bautista and Chef Sean Jorgensen. With its origins rooted […]
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.
There’s a sense of idealism found in Resolutions, curated by Yul Servo Nieto and organized by Mark Nilo Odiaman for The Art District Escolta. It’s the nature of the New Year’s resolution, to find the ideal image one rallies around. But it also gives us an idea of what each of the 16 artists perceive […]
MO_Space in Bonifacio High Street debuted a new exhibit that acts as a statement of purpose for artist and photographer MM Yu. The exhibit, either/or, features different photographs captured over the years, tied together in a complex exploration of how images can manipulate the way we see the world. Deck Photography Art Centre previously published […]
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Living Innovations Design Unlimited, Inc. (LiDU) is known for creating minimalist, free-flowing spaces tailored to their clients’ personalities and preferences. The CC House, one of the firm’s projects in Iloilo, is a perfect example of this design aesthetic. Created for a young family, the house features open spaces, an airy feel, and warm, cozy interiors. […]
In January, Artinformal Gallery in Makati debuted three new exhibits, inviting audiences to explore fresh perspectives shaped by the artists’ personal experiences. These emotional explorations offer refreshingly unique artworks that pose thought-provoking questions about selfhood and artistic expression. ‘Tethers of a whole’ Tosha Albor’s Tethers of a whole functions as the most exciting piece in […]
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