A Biodiversity Conservation Area Using Holistic and Modular Architecture

Abstract

Green architecture and engineering aim to minimize the use of available resources by maintaining and protecting the ecosystem and optimizing its benefits to humans and the ecology. The rich biodiversity of Mindoro Island, Philippines has always been on the pipeline project of the province. However, strategies for maximizing the benefits of a small area imposed challenges and hindered many conservation projects. This study utilized modular architecture, biophilia, and biomimesis as design concepts. The design implemented the use of inverted pyramid-shaped modules supported by pilotis to lessen the interaction of the construction project to the proposed site. Five modules are built accordingly and strategically connected by a modular bridge for accessibility. The body of the Mindoro dwarf buffalo is represented by the container van used as the mainframe of the modules; the legs are represented by the pilotis used as structural columns, and the body-built is represented by the inverted pyramid-shaped single-pile structures. The administration building was also inspired by the sturdy built of Mindoro Dwarf Buffalo (Bubalus mindorensis) and designed to cater the administrative functions and activities, while the proposed shops and commercial areas are designed to boost the local economy.