In a curated setting at the The Tile Gallery showroom, architects, designers, and media guests were transported into the immersive world of Italian contemporary lighting brand Lodes, where light illuminated the space through sculptural forms and innovative materiality. The Language of Light event presented a selection of Lodes’ established collections alongside new releases, revealing the […]
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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.
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Many people only notice good design when it is absent. A faucet that splashes too far, feels awkward in the hand, or sits slightly out of alignment can disrupt a routine in ways that are subtle yet persistent. These are small irritations, but they reveal a larger truth: the objects used every day often have […]
Running from November 27, 2025, to May 31, 2026, the exhibition traces how Art Deco moved from global design movement to localized expression through Philippine architecture, furnishings, fashion, and everyday life. The National Museum of Fine Arts’ Art Deco: Modernity and Design in the Philippines 1925-1950 explored the history of the Art Deco style in […]
Flooring can profoundly influence how a space is experienced. Long before furniture and finishes are introduced, the floor establishes a visual field that shapes movement, light, and proportion. This is where large-format tiles are particularly effective. By reducing the number of grout lines across a floor or wall, they create a more continuous surface. The […]
Since setting up her design firm, MB Architecture Studio, in 2007, Ar. Micaela Benedicto has built a diverse portfolio of architectural projects. Her works, whether residential or commercial, showcase a distinct spatial quality, “I like to create things that can go from something static to something that is alive and reactive,” Benedicto states. “In creating […]
