Situated in Cubao, Quezon City, MIRA by RLC Residences offers a warm and thoughtful environment for couples preparing for their next chapter. Driven by the idea of home beginning long before one starts a family, this community is built around comfort, community, and the everyday rhythms of family life. Family First MIRA offers compact and […]
Design for Life: How 50/53 Architects Balance Love, Work, and Family
Love and architecture are both built on trust, vision, and the ability to adapt. As the founders of 50/53 Architects, Pauline and John Sac crafted a practice that merges their architectural vision with construction expertise—transforming ideas into tangible structures, just as they have built a life together.
Their work at 50/53 Architects is deeply personal, to say the least. It is a reflection of their journey—from meeting in college, navigating their first projects together, and eventually defining a clear balance between marriage, work, and parenthood. And while they collaborate as professionals, they also support each other as life partners, which makes every design and build an extension of their shared aspiration
Naturally, working together as a couple in the highly demanding field of architecture and construction comes with a special set of challenges. There are moments of creative clashes, sleepless nights over deadlines, and keeping work from spilling into family life. Yet, through the years, they’ve discovered the secret to making it work. Dividing responsibilities without dividing their bond, they turn differences in perspective into opportunities for growth.
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In this profile, we dive into how Pauline and John built 50/53 Architects, the lessons they’ve learned as partners in both business and life, and why their expertise in design and build allows them to create spaces that are beautiful, deeply functional, and enduring.
The Beginnings of 50/53 Architects
Pauline and John’s story began in the halls of their university, where they first crossed paths as architecture students.
“We actually met in college,” Pauline shares. “Like the late part of it. And then we did our apprenticeships in different firms. And then after the board exam, he told me, ‘Oh, can you come work with me for just one project with my dad?’ And it’s like, okay, since I don’t have a job yet. And then five years later, [we were] still with that company.
“The fun thing about it is that during that time, his dad allowed us to have our own projects,” recalls Pauline. “And that’s how we actually started our own firm.”
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This trust and support gave them the confidence to experiment, refine their skills, and eventually establish their own practice. As they worked together, they discovered their professional compatibility and a shared ambition to create something of their own. The decision to branch out was a natural evolution—a step forward in blending design and construction into a seamless, integrated process.
So when it came time to name their firm, they wanted something personal yet free from the usual practice of naming it after themselves. The name 50/53 Architects originated from the last digits of their architectural license numbers—a reminder of their roots and the serendipitous journey that led them to this point.
Navigating Work and Marriage
Building a life together is one thing—building a business as a married couple is another. For Pauline and John, merging their personal and professional lives came with its own set of challenges. In the early years of 50/53 Architects, they found themselves navigating the uncharted territory of balancing love and work, often blurring the lines between the two.
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At first, the challenges were expected: differing opinions, creative differences, and the difficulty of switching off from work after office hours. In a profession driven by passion, when two equally dedicated minds come together, disagreements are inevitable. “At the beginning, we were still figuring out how to work together while also being a couple,” Pauline recalls. “We were young, still trying to find our rhythm—both in our relationship and in the firm.”
To make their partnership work, they had to carve out distinct responsibilities. Rather than approaching every decision as a duo—where every detail could become a debate—they decided on a division of labor that played to their strengths.
“For the sake of our marriage, we gave each other tasks,” Pauline says with a laugh. “I’m more the admin work [and] architectural interiors, and then John handles more of the construction part and the architectural planning, just so we don’t butt heads.”
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By respecting each other’s expertise and trusting one another’s judgment, they created a system that allowed both of them to thrive. This also allowed them to work independently while still collaborating on major design decisions.
The Importance of Boundaries and Teamwork
In the early days of 50/53 Architects, their lives revolved around the firm. They were constantly in “hustle mode,” as Pauline put in. “Like no weekends, no holidays,” Pauline says. But as their family grew, their priorities changed.
Time management was key, especially when it came to their personal lives. They had to be intentional about creating space for their marriage and their children so that work didn’t consume every aspect of their lives.
“Our kids basically grow up within the firm,” Pauline explains. “So there’s really no delineation like what is a work day or what is a private day. But it kind of works.”
“I think for us, it’s more on the time management with kids,” John chimes in. “Mainly because before, we usually worked during weekends. But now, we value more time with the kids.”
At the core of their success is a simple but powerful principle: teamwork. “There’s really no choice. Because we’re married, we really have to make it work,” Pauline says.
Through mindful adjustments, clear priorities, and a space that supports both work and life, John and Pauline have created a rhythm that allows them to thrive as architects, business owners, and—most importantly—as parents.
The 50/53 Architects Approach to Design and Build
For Pauline and John Sac, architecture has always been about more than just aesthetics. At 50/53 Architects, every project begins with the question: What problem are we solving? This solution-driven design defines their approach to every space they create.
Instead of imposing a singular design vision, they immerse themselves in the unique needs of each client, the constraints of each site, and the possibilities within every project. It’s a mindset that prioritizes functionality as much as beauty.
One of their greatest strengths as a firm is their ability to bridge the gap between design and construction. Many architects conceptualize ambitious ideas only to see them compromised during execution. “We see both the architecture and also the contractor side of the project,” John asserts.
As designers and builders, 50/53 have the distinct advantage of ensuring that their creative visions translate into reality.
Pauline shares, “[John’s] dad’s practice is more on the construction side, and then I came from a more design background. And then John and I decided, [why don’t] we try building our own designs instead of someone else doing it? Because I have a certain quality that I wanted… this is how I want things installed.”
“In addition, some clients really like having both an architect and also a builder together,” John explains. “It lessens coordination time, so design can push through easily.”
“I think that’s the beauty of it,” notes Pauline. “That’s why it’s solution-driven design. We’re both a designer and a builder. So you can look at it from a designer’s point of view and a builder’s point of view, if it’s possible or not. So we do make comment recommendations as a builder as well.”
“But of course, we need to follow the design,” adds John.
“It has to be how it was rendered,” Pauline says.
From Blueprint to Build
Their deep understanding of materials, structural integrity, and construction methods allows them to push the boundaries of design without sacrificing feasibility. They can see projects through from blueprint to build, making sure that even the most intricate details are executed with precision.
This technical expertise allows them to take calculated risks, experimenting with materials and construction techniques that clients and other contractors might shy away from. Their work reflects an in-depth understanding of both artistry and engineering. This hands-on approach results in structures that can stand the test of time, and that the integrity of their creative vision is never lost in translation.
By embracing both the artistry of architecture and the precision of construction, John and Pauline have carved out a practice that merges creativity with technical mastery. For them, good design is about how it performs, how it feels, and ultimately, how it improves the lives of those who experience it.
Notable Projects and Challenges
50/53 built a portfolio that reflects their commitment to both thoughtful design and technical excellence. By working closely with the client and the construction team, every design choice—from material selection to structural orientation—enhances both the aesthetic and functional aspects.
Their expertise gives them an edge in bringing ambitious concepts to life. On several occasions, their construction background allowed them to refine structural solutions that others might have dismissed as impractical. Their ability to think like builders has often been the key to turning creativity into tangible realities.
Challenges are inevitable in construction, but Pauline and John have always approached them with a problem-solving mindset. Each project they undertake is founded on a belief that great architecture isn’t just about vision—it’s also about execution. Through collaboration, technical ingenuity, and a commitment to their craft, they continue to shape spaces that are both beautiful and intelligently built.
“Our main goal is really to make it look like it’s lived in,” Pauline posits. “It doesn’t look like it’s a stage. It looks like people would sit on that couch, or the family will really have dinner on their dining table. We want spaces like that; spaces that [engage] the end users, like, ‘Oh, let’s hang out here!’ because it’s really made to be that way.”
Together, they built a body of work that showcases their versatility as architects and designers. Their projects span the spectrum—from ultra-modern residences to homes that thoughtfully integrate traditional elements, striking a balance between heritage and innovation. Their expertise extends beyond a singular aesthetic, embracing a wide range of architectural expressions that cater to different lifestyles and design philosophies.
Currently, they are working on the renovation of Island at the Palace in BGC, a project that highlights their collaborative synergy and serves as Pauline’s thesis for her interior design degree. This endeavor reflects their shared commitment to continuous learning and professional growth, further solidifying their dedication to refining their craft and expanding their expertise.
The Future of 50/53 Architects
For Pauline and John Sac, the decision to pursue a design-and-build approach was never just about efficiency—it was about control, precision, and the ability to see their creative visions through from concept to completion. Their shared passion for architecture and construction has allowed them to craft spaces that are not only aesthetically compelling but also deeply functional. By bridging the gap between design and execution, they can make sure their projects meet the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship.
Their complementary skills remain instrumental in shaping the firm’s direction. Pauline’s keen eye for architectural interiors and administrative acumen provide the structure and refinement needed to bring ideas to life. John’s expertise in construction and architectural planning ensures that those ideas remain grounded in technical feasibility. Together, they form a partnership that balances creativity with pragmatism, making 50/53 Architects a firm that clients trust to push design boundaries without compromising build integrity.
Looking ahead, they remain committed to innovation, always seeking new ways to refine their process and elevate their work. While there are plans to scale, the focus in the meantime is to hone their skills further.
Navigating the Intersection of Love and Architecture
Reflecting on their journey, Pauline and John acknowledge that working as a married couple in a high-stakes, detail-oriented industry is not without its challenges. The lines between personal and professional life often blur, which requires a level of communication and mutual respect that goes beyond the typical business partnership.
However, it is precisely this dynamic that has strengthened their firm. Their deep understanding of each other’s strengths, coupled with a shared vision for what they want to achieve, has made 50/53 Architects a reflection of their partnership—both as professionals and as a family.
At the heart of their design philosophy is a belief in solutions-driven architecture. Every project is an opportunity to solve a problem, to create a space that is not just visually striking but also intelligent, functional, and built to last. Their approach is not about imposing a singular design style but about responding to the needs of the site, the client, and the broader context in which a structure exists.
More than anything, their journey together has reinforced that great architecture, much like a strong partnership, requires balance, adaptability, and a shared commitment to excellence. As they continue to build spaces that matter, they remain anchored by the same foundation that started it all—trust, collaboration, and the belief that together, they can create something truly enduring.
Read more: House 115: An Atmosphere Of Calm In Spaces For Connection
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
They approach design disagreements with open communication and respect for each other’s vision. By combining creative ideas and finding common ground, they turn differences into innovative solutions that enhance their projects.
Clear boundaries and intentional downtime help them separate work from home. They schedule family moments and personal time, ensuring creative energy flows at work while keeping their home life balanced and stress-free.
They streamline roles through collaboration and clear processes. By aligning design concepts with construction requirements early on, they deliver seamless projects that meet client expectations in both aesthetics and functionality.
They prioritize self-care, shared hobbies, and open communication. These habits help maintain passion for their profession while nurturing their relationship, keeping both work and marriage fulfilling and sustainable.
They introduce their kids to design through simple projects, creative activities, and site visits. It’s a fun way to spark curiosity and share the family’s passion for architecture and building.
Photographer: Excel Panlaque
Sittings Editor: Geewel Fuster
Managing Editor: Katherine Lopez
Art Director: Jehd Francisco
Shoot Coordinator: Mae Talaid
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