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| Intricate Modern Asian Interior |
About Me
- Irene
- Quezon City, Philippines
- I am a property newbie. Just bought my house and will be starting the renovation soon.
Showing posts with label philippine property. Show all posts
Showing posts with label philippine property. Show all posts
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Ceiling Designs
I am in love with Modern Asian Interiors! I'm now searching for the best ceiling design for our home, then I found this very pretty website.
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Building your dream house, a checklist for first-time home buyers
Imagine a happily married couple saving money during the next two years for their dream house. Both have satisfying jobs and earning above average salaries. They find a nice lot in a good neighborhood, accessible to work and major establishments. They find an architect through referrals. They hire a contractor to supervise the house construction. Everything seems to be in order. That is, until the lot’s real owner knocks on their doorstep and charges them for illegal construction. It seems that the couple failed to double-check the lot based on the Transfer Certificate of Title (TCT).
The dream house becomes a nightmare. The story ends not entirely bad. The matter is settled outside the court with the real owner getting paid twice the value of the lot for damages.
Unbelievable? Things like this do happen but they can be avoided.
In building a home, certain issues have to be addressed. Below are some of the main considerations:
The lot
With urbanization, areas like Alabang, Muntinlupa, and Fairview, Quezon City that seemed far-flung years ago are now accessible. There are still a good number of vacant lots in Metro Manila but the lot prices vary based on their proximity to major centers and road networks.
Ideal travel time from home to work is an hour to an hour and a half. Prospective homeowners are searching as far as the outskirts of Metro Manila like Rizal, Bulacan, Cavite, and Laguna. Lots should be accessible to schools and hospitals, the market, and churches. Make sure basic utilities like electricity, water lines, telephone, cable, and Internet lines are accessible.
If you already have a lot, check and double-check your TCT. Make sure that the property has no pending cases to avoid future headaches. Hire the services of a surveyor to ensure that the boundaries given in your TCT are accurate and match the actual lot.
Before construction, the lot should also undergo soil testing to determine the kind of structure and number of storeys the lot can carry.
Time and money
In construction, these two factors are quite related. A bigger budget means continuous workflow and shorter construction period. In the process, you can save more.
How do you intend to finance the construction? Who among your family members can help shoulder the building expenses? How much is the annual household income? From the various housing loans available like PAG-IBIG and banks, find out which is the best for you.
Based on these, you can set a realistic budget and decide how much you’re willing to spend for the house. Keep in mind that the cost of construction materials changes from time to time, so set aside allowances.
Manpower
The Philippines has a wealth of manpower from architects to contractors and laborers, many of whom are going to Middle East countries. Owners should first get the services of a licensed architect. Ask friends and relatives for referrals. Inside subdivisions, you may opt to look for your candidate based on their existing works.
Architects are licensed professionals under the Professional Regulatory Commission (PRC), making them the best and only choice in the field of design. Currently, there have been cases filed against non-architects who have misrepresented themselves. When in doubt about an architect or contractor, you can inquire from the PRC or the Bureau of Internal Revenue.
The law requires the representation of architects in almost all forms of transactions from the application of building permits to construction to completion. A contractor is similar to a wedding planner, acting as construction supervisor on the owner’s behalf. Although not everybody can afford a contractor, it is advisable to have one.
Make sure you have a contract for every transaction which describes in detail the architect or the contractor’s scope of work and responsibilities, mode of payment, and other pertinent information. The Constitution protects clients from possible abuses by contractors and vice versa.
Architect Jenner P. Macaballug, managing principal of J.P. Macaballug Architectural Services advises, “Hire a 3D renderer or walk-through artist for added visuals to ease decision-making for owners. Few owners can understand the concepts of plans so walk-throughs allow them to see and feel the space.”
Space requirements and output
Filipinos are generally creative and receptive to new ideas. We adapt new ideas and “Filipinize” them. But during conceptualization, we sometimes lose sight of what we really need.
Architects should enlighten you regarding practical design and address the requirements of the users at the same time. Your inputs are highly invaluable during the design development phase because spaces should be set according to your lifestyle and norms. Effective and sound design should work for the people who will live in the house instead of forcing you to adjust to the design.
Will you be bringing in new furnishings or reuse your old stuff? Make a list of things you still intend to use. Consider the layout of your spaces based on the furnishings you intend to bring with you and buy.
Consider spaces, doors and windows. In some cases, you are forced to make last minute adjustments because some of your previous belongings cannot fit in the new house, like perhaps the bed that cannot fit inside the main entry. Worse, you may be forced to dispose of these items, resulting to additional costs.
Feel free to consult a feng shui expert but incorporate the recommendations with the design before actual construction.
Building materials and technology
With continuous innovations in building technology, there is a wealth of building materials now available from door and window openings to ceilings and roofing materials. Take advantage of the opportunity to know the latest in building technology.
These include environment-friendly termite killers, solar-powered water heaters, and non-toxic paints. There are even pre-fabricated houses available in the market, prices of which are below half a million. In some cases, these materials are not only economical but also earth-friendly.
Numerous establishments like MC Home Depot house a number of building suppliers under one roof, making purchasing for building materials easier. Specialty shops and suppliers can be sourced out via Internet, phone directories, and media advertisements.
In the Philippines, there are two major events that showcase the latest and best in building technology: the Philippine World Building and Construction Exposition (WorldBex) and Philippine Construction Exposition (Philconstruct), held in the first and last quarter of the year, respectively. So visit those expos to get a better idea of what materials and technologies are available in the market.
From Inquirer Global Nation
The dream house becomes a nightmare. The story ends not entirely bad. The matter is settled outside the court with the real owner getting paid twice the value of the lot for damages.
Unbelievable? Things like this do happen but they can be avoided.
In building a home, certain issues have to be addressed. Below are some of the main considerations:
The lot
With urbanization, areas like Alabang, Muntinlupa, and Fairview, Quezon City that seemed far-flung years ago are now accessible. There are still a good number of vacant lots in Metro Manila but the lot prices vary based on their proximity to major centers and road networks.
Ideal travel time from home to work is an hour to an hour and a half. Prospective homeowners are searching as far as the outskirts of Metro Manila like Rizal, Bulacan, Cavite, and Laguna. Lots should be accessible to schools and hospitals, the market, and churches. Make sure basic utilities like electricity, water lines, telephone, cable, and Internet lines are accessible.
If you already have a lot, check and double-check your TCT. Make sure that the property has no pending cases to avoid future headaches. Hire the services of a surveyor to ensure that the boundaries given in your TCT are accurate and match the actual lot.
Before construction, the lot should also undergo soil testing to determine the kind of structure and number of storeys the lot can carry.
Time and money
In construction, these two factors are quite related. A bigger budget means continuous workflow and shorter construction period. In the process, you can save more.
How do you intend to finance the construction? Who among your family members can help shoulder the building expenses? How much is the annual household income? From the various housing loans available like PAG-IBIG and banks, find out which is the best for you.
Based on these, you can set a realistic budget and decide how much you’re willing to spend for the house. Keep in mind that the cost of construction materials changes from time to time, so set aside allowances.
Manpower
The Philippines has a wealth of manpower from architects to contractors and laborers, many of whom are going to Middle East countries. Owners should first get the services of a licensed architect. Ask friends and relatives for referrals. Inside subdivisions, you may opt to look for your candidate based on their existing works.
Architects are licensed professionals under the Professional Regulatory Commission (PRC), making them the best and only choice in the field of design. Currently, there have been cases filed against non-architects who have misrepresented themselves. When in doubt about an architect or contractor, you can inquire from the PRC or the Bureau of Internal Revenue.
The law requires the representation of architects in almost all forms of transactions from the application of building permits to construction to completion. A contractor is similar to a wedding planner, acting as construction supervisor on the owner’s behalf. Although not everybody can afford a contractor, it is advisable to have one.
Make sure you have a contract for every transaction which describes in detail the architect or the contractor’s scope of work and responsibilities, mode of payment, and other pertinent information. The Constitution protects clients from possible abuses by contractors and vice versa.
Architect Jenner P. Macaballug, managing principal of J.P. Macaballug Architectural Services advises, “Hire a 3D renderer or walk-through artist for added visuals to ease decision-making for owners. Few owners can understand the concepts of plans so walk-throughs allow them to see and feel the space.”
Space requirements and output
Filipinos are generally creative and receptive to new ideas. We adapt new ideas and “Filipinize” them. But during conceptualization, we sometimes lose sight of what we really need.
Architects should enlighten you regarding practical design and address the requirements of the users at the same time. Your inputs are highly invaluable during the design development phase because spaces should be set according to your lifestyle and norms. Effective and sound design should work for the people who will live in the house instead of forcing you to adjust to the design.
Will you be bringing in new furnishings or reuse your old stuff? Make a list of things you still intend to use. Consider the layout of your spaces based on the furnishings you intend to bring with you and buy.
Consider spaces, doors and windows. In some cases, you are forced to make last minute adjustments because some of your previous belongings cannot fit in the new house, like perhaps the bed that cannot fit inside the main entry. Worse, you may be forced to dispose of these items, resulting to additional costs.
Feel free to consult a feng shui expert but incorporate the recommendations with the design before actual construction.
Building materials and technology
With continuous innovations in building technology, there is a wealth of building materials now available from door and window openings to ceilings and roofing materials. Take advantage of the opportunity to know the latest in building technology.
These include environment-friendly termite killers, solar-powered water heaters, and non-toxic paints. There are even pre-fabricated houses available in the market, prices of which are below half a million. In some cases, these materials are not only economical but also earth-friendly.
Numerous establishments like MC Home Depot house a number of building suppliers under one roof, making purchasing for building materials easier. Specialty shops and suppliers can be sourced out via Internet, phone directories, and media advertisements.
In the Philippines, there are two major events that showcase the latest and best in building technology: the Philippine World Building and Construction Exposition (WorldBex) and Philippine Construction Exposition (Philconstruct), held in the first and last quarter of the year, respectively. So visit those expos to get a better idea of what materials and technologies are available in the market.
From Inquirer Global Nation
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Applying for a Building Permit
This week, we aim to submit all the requirements to apply for a building permit in the Quezon City Engineering office. Since it'll be a major renovation, we are required to submit plans and other documents before we can start the construction work.
Luckily, the Quezon City government has their own decent website which contains the forms and we just downloaded them. It made life easier because we didn't have to go to the cityhall in person which is quite a hassle.
We started preparing for this building permit around three weeks ago. I've downloaded all the forms from http://www.quezoncity.gov.ph/ and asked Engineer to draft and prepare the plans. There are basically 4 sets of plans that needed to be prepared -- Architectural, Structural, Electrial and Plumbing. Each plan will be prepared by a specific professional person in my team.
Architectural Plans
Luckily, the Quezon City government has their own decent website which contains the forms and we just downloaded them. It made life easier because we didn't have to go to the cityhall in person which is quite a hassle.
We started preparing for this building permit around three weeks ago. I've downloaded all the forms from http://www.quezoncity.gov.ph/ and asked Engineer to draft and prepare the plans. There are basically 4 sets of plans that needed to be prepared -- Architectural, Structural, Electrial and Plumbing. Each plan will be prepared by a specific professional person in my team.
Architectural Plans
- Vicinity map/Location Plan
- Site Development Plan
- Perspective
- Floor Plans
- Elevations (at least 4)
- Sections (at least two)
- Reflected Ceiling plan
- Architectural details: e.g. stair, fire escape, cabinets, partions, etc.
- Schedule of doors & windows
- Schedule of finishes
- Details of major architectural elements
Civil/Structural Plans
- Foundation Plan and details
- Floor/Roof framing plan and details
- details and schedules of structural work
Electrical Plans
- Location & site plans
- legend & symbols
- Gen. notes
- Electrical Layout
- Schedule of loads
- single line diagram
Plumbing/Sanitary Plans
- Location & site plan
- Plumbing plans, layouts and details
- legend & general notes
- Isometric of the system
- technical specs
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Your Site Team
Now that you're all set to renovate your home, it's important to know who's who you will be working with for the next couple of weeks, or even months.
THE JOB site team of the contractor requires a group of personnel that will deliver to you the house of your dreams. After the design of the house is complete and the contractor has done all the necessary permit applications, schedules, estimates in the office, it is now time to execute the project. The jobsite personnel includes:
Project engineer
The project engineer is the person responsible for the overall performance of the project at the site. He or she reports to the head office and directly supervises the work crew at the site so that the design of the structure is followed. He or she is a civil engineer by training and can make decisions on the spot with regard to the process on how the structure is to be built.
The site engineer makes sure that the quality, budget and schedule requirements are met. He or she is also responsible for the safekeeping and overall safety and cleanliness of the site.
Foreman
The foreman is in charge of the skilled and unskilled people working at the site. He makes sure that the plans are properly staked out at the site and coordinates on a regular basis with the project engineer.
In the construction of a house, the foreman is mainly responsible for the execution of the project at the site. The skill of the foreman is usually that of a carpenter for he is responsible for the overall layout of the house.
Lead man
The lead man is also a skilled worker and, at the absence of the foreman, takes the responsibility of the foreman. You may call him the "vice foreman" and is likewise responsible. If the foreman is at the site, the lead man takes a skilled role usually that of a carpenter.
For large construction projects, there may also be a lead man for a specific skill as in a carpenter's lead man or a mason's lead man.
Concrete mason
The concrete mason mixes and pours concrete, levels it and puts on the finishing plastering to make a smooth finish. He is also responsible for the other designs such as moldings and grooves on the concrete surface.
A finishing mason has to have a talent for the arts because decorative finishes require a lot of creativity.
Carpenter
The carpenters are responsible for placing the guides during the layout and staking of the building perimeter. They are responsible for setting up the formworks and scaffolds that will support the house frame and structure during construction. They install most of the wooden fixings of a house. This would include doorjambs, doors, ceiling, cabinets and wooden walls.
With the introduction of new materials such as fiber cement boards, gypsum boards, PVC ceilings, the carpenters also install these. For a wooden type of roof framing, they are the ones who do this job.
Steelman
The steel man is responsible for laying out the reinforcing steel prior to concrete pouring. Some steelmen have skills in welding and they are the ones who would build the concrete truss system for the house. This can be a specialized job so some builders would rely on their subcontractors to do this aspect of the work.
These steelmen or welders also fabricate the steel windows and doors, enclosures and gates of your home.
Electrician
The electrician makes sure that the design of the electrical engineer is followed to specifications. He or she takes care of the electrical ducting including the provisions for the intercom, cable TV, security system and the other electrical facilities of the house. The responsibility of electricians is very critical since the safety of a house against fire due to faulty electrical systems relies greatly on them.
Plumber
Plumbers install the hot and cold water lines of your home with the use of special tools and equipment to ensure that pipe fittings and connections are secure in place.
The scope of their work extends to installing water closets, lavatories and even bathtubs. They also build the drainage system for your home.
Tinsmith
Tinsmiths are the ones who would fabricate and install the galvanized roofing sheets of the house. They cut, shape and connect gutters that are attached to the downspout, which will contain the excess rainfall.
For houses in which asphalt shingles or clay tiles are used, it is usually the carpenters who install these. Roofing installers are usually known for their "courage" in walking at heights since they are at the highest point with constant danger of falling. A joke in the homebuilding industry is that roofing installers have the "highest position" at the job site.
Landscaper
The landscaper usually enters the project during its final stages and builds the design that is laid out by the landscape designer.
Landscapers layout the stones, patios, trellis and plants that would complete the landscaping of your home.
Labor support
The skilled trades previously discussed need help from unskilled labor. They usually mix concrete for the masons, help with the carpenter in aligning and bringing things to the jobsite, clean the work area after work, carry hollow blocks, excavate foundations or even dispose of waste material from the jobsite.
The trades earlier discussed work under the direct supervision of the project engineer and foreman. On a regular basis or as the need arises, the professionals who have worked to design the house-the architect, structural engineer, electrical engineer, etc.-visit the site to make sure that their design is being followed to specifications by the contractors team. This ensures you of a well-built, high-quality, safe and beautiful home.
This is an article from Inquirer Global Nation
THE JOB site team of the contractor requires a group of personnel that will deliver to you the house of your dreams. After the design of the house is complete and the contractor has done all the necessary permit applications, schedules, estimates in the office, it is now time to execute the project. The jobsite personnel includes:
Project engineer
The project engineer is the person responsible for the overall performance of the project at the site. He or she reports to the head office and directly supervises the work crew at the site so that the design of the structure is followed. He or she is a civil engineer by training and can make decisions on the spot with regard to the process on how the structure is to be built.
The site engineer makes sure that the quality, budget and schedule requirements are met. He or she is also responsible for the safekeeping and overall safety and cleanliness of the site.
Foreman
The foreman is in charge of the skilled and unskilled people working at the site. He makes sure that the plans are properly staked out at the site and coordinates on a regular basis with the project engineer.
In the construction of a house, the foreman is mainly responsible for the execution of the project at the site. The skill of the foreman is usually that of a carpenter for he is responsible for the overall layout of the house.
Lead man
The lead man is also a skilled worker and, at the absence of the foreman, takes the responsibility of the foreman. You may call him the "vice foreman" and is likewise responsible. If the foreman is at the site, the lead man takes a skilled role usually that of a carpenter.
For large construction projects, there may also be a lead man for a specific skill as in a carpenter's lead man or a mason's lead man.
Concrete mason
The concrete mason mixes and pours concrete, levels it and puts on the finishing plastering to make a smooth finish. He is also responsible for the other designs such as moldings and grooves on the concrete surface.
A finishing mason has to have a talent for the arts because decorative finishes require a lot of creativity.
Carpenter
The carpenters are responsible for placing the guides during the layout and staking of the building perimeter. They are responsible for setting up the formworks and scaffolds that will support the house frame and structure during construction. They install most of the wooden fixings of a house. This would include doorjambs, doors, ceiling, cabinets and wooden walls.
With the introduction of new materials such as fiber cement boards, gypsum boards, PVC ceilings, the carpenters also install these. For a wooden type of roof framing, they are the ones who do this job.
Steelman
The steel man is responsible for laying out the reinforcing steel prior to concrete pouring. Some steelmen have skills in welding and they are the ones who would build the concrete truss system for the house. This can be a specialized job so some builders would rely on their subcontractors to do this aspect of the work.
These steelmen or welders also fabricate the steel windows and doors, enclosures and gates of your home.
Electrician
The electrician makes sure that the design of the electrical engineer is followed to specifications. He or she takes care of the electrical ducting including the provisions for the intercom, cable TV, security system and the other electrical facilities of the house. The responsibility of electricians is very critical since the safety of a house against fire due to faulty electrical systems relies greatly on them.
Plumber
Plumbers install the hot and cold water lines of your home with the use of special tools and equipment to ensure that pipe fittings and connections are secure in place.
The scope of their work extends to installing water closets, lavatories and even bathtubs. They also build the drainage system for your home.
Tinsmith
Tinsmiths are the ones who would fabricate and install the galvanized roofing sheets of the house. They cut, shape and connect gutters that are attached to the downspout, which will contain the excess rainfall.
For houses in which asphalt shingles or clay tiles are used, it is usually the carpenters who install these. Roofing installers are usually known for their "courage" in walking at heights since they are at the highest point with constant danger of falling. A joke in the homebuilding industry is that roofing installers have the "highest position" at the job site.
Landscaper
The landscaper usually enters the project during its final stages and builds the design that is laid out by the landscape designer.
Landscapers layout the stones, patios, trellis and plants that would complete the landscaping of your home.
Labor support
The skilled trades previously discussed need help from unskilled labor. They usually mix concrete for the masons, help with the carpenter in aligning and bringing things to the jobsite, clean the work area after work, carry hollow blocks, excavate foundations or even dispose of waste material from the jobsite.
The trades earlier discussed work under the direct supervision of the project engineer and foreman. On a regular basis or as the need arises, the professionals who have worked to design the house-the architect, structural engineer, electrical engineer, etc.-visit the site to make sure that their design is being followed to specifications by the contractors team. This ensures you of a well-built, high-quality, safe and beautiful home.
This is an article from Inquirer Global Nation
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Welcome...Rotonda! My place in the Philippines
The place is located in the most populous city of the Philippines, Quezon City. If I'm not mistaken, it's also the largest city. In fact, it was the former capital of the country, that’s why a lot of government offices are located here. It’s also fast becoming the city of the stars because almost all of the broadcasting networks can be found here as well. Apparently, I heard a rumour that it will become the ‘Hollywood’ of the Philippines. Goodluck!
I’ve lived in Quezon City all my life, so it’s really hard to move out of this place. Almost all our relatives live nearby as well, so I really didn’t look that far to find this.
Aside from that, I know it’s got potential, a huuuge potential!! The Ayala Trinoma mall has just opened (last year?), apart from the already existing 3rd biggest mall in Asia, SM North Edsa. These two combine makes the place so prominent and alive. I’m sure that the development won’t stop there. When I went home last year, the traffic along EDSA was intolerable. It takes 2
0 minutes just to pass along the intersection of EDSA and Munoz. It’s because the MRT extension project was finally being constructed. This project took I don’t know how long to get approved, so thankfully, it’s now on it’s way for the Quezon City people. Once it’s finished, travel from Monumento to Makati will hopefully be better. Of course, our place is in the middle of this MRT route and we will definitely take advantage of it.
I’ve lived in Quezon City all my life, so it’s really hard to move out of this place. Almost all our relatives live nearby as well, so I really didn’t look that far to find this.
Aside from that, I know it’s got potential, a huuuge potential!! The Ayala Trinoma mall has just opened (last year?), apart from the already existing 3rd biggest mall in Asia, SM North Edsa. These two combine makes the place so prominent and alive. I’m sure that the development won’t stop there. When I went home last year, the traffic along EDSA was intolerable. It takes 2
0 minutes just to pass along the intersection of EDSA and Munoz. It’s because the MRT extension project was finally being constructed. This project took I don’t know how long to get approved, so thankfully, it’s now on it’s way for the Quezon City people. Once it’s finished, travel from Monumento to Makati will hopefully be better. Of course, our place is in the middle of this MRT route and we will definitely take advantage of it. The UP Ayala technohub, the first of its kind, has also been recently launched. I also heard that Congressional Avenue will soon have a dining strip, similar to the Eastwood City of Libis or the Greenbelt of Makati. I’m sure that there are a lot more to watch out for in this city.
Monday, June 1, 2009
My first new old house
I’ve been contemplating on starting a blog for years, but I haven’t had enough inspiration to focus on a specific topic. Today, I have decided to finally blog…at least start on an interesting topic…
I’ve recently bought a new house, yes a house! Isn’t it exciting?! It’s actually a new old house, because the house is 25 years old already. Since the year started, it’s been normal for me to spend my weekends in Borders scanning through tons and tons of photos in the magazine section, borrowing books in the library for articles and tips, and of course, surfing some awesome home improvement websites.
I’ve lived in Sydney for the past 3 years and their love of property development here is amazing. Year 1900 houses are being converted to look like brand new, bungalows converted to have more levels up, extensions here and there, and a lot lot more.
Aside from home improvements, I’m also stunned in green living. I’m currently living in a country where everything is living for the future – healthy living and fresh produce, building sustainable homes, solar power …awesome. All these ideas are going through my mind as I start renovating my own house.
This is an important stage in my life, and hopefully through this blog, I will be able to keep track of the whole renovation experience, and at the same time share some information and tips from my research to the people who are currently renovating or are planning to renovate soon.
So, don't move, improve!
I’ve recently bought a new house, yes a house! Isn’t it exciting?! It’s actually a new old house, because the house is 25 years old already. Since the year started, it’s been normal for me to spend my weekends in Borders scanning through tons and tons of photos in the magazine section, borrowing books in the library for articles and tips, and of course, surfing some awesome home improvement websites.
I’ve lived in Sydney for the past 3 years and their love of property development here is amazing. Year 1900 houses are being converted to look like brand new, bungalows converted to have more levels up, extensions here and there, and a lot lot more.
Aside from home improvements, I’m also stunned in green living. I’m currently living in a country where everything is living for the future – healthy living and fresh produce, building sustainable homes, solar power …awesome. All these ideas are going through my mind as I start renovating my own house.
This is an important stage in my life, and hopefully through this blog, I will be able to keep track of the whole renovation experience, and at the same time share some information and tips from my research to the people who are currently renovating or are planning to renovate soon.
So, don't move, improve!
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