BUILD Architecture Awards 2023 26 here’s a strong undercurrent sweeping through the global architectural landscape – a flow towards creating spaces that hold sustainability at the crux of the design. FMK3 Architects take that a step further, with a mission to seamlessly incorporate the natural environment. “Our mission at FMK3 Architects is to make a positive difference in the quality of life through the artistry of blending our client’s vision with architecture and the natural environment. Every client and property have a unique expression and we strive to find the balance and bring them to life. Our passion is working collaboratively with clients as designers to complete projects that reflect their most valuable intents as they enhance the communities they serve.” Let’s take a closer look at the project for which the firm was recognised specifically, YY House. The purpose of this design and build was to act as a leading archetype for the sustainable movement, endeavouring to create a benchmark for future home design, without sacrificing form, function of comfort. Filemon explains more in his own words. “The YY house has challenged our team to design and build a project that will be recognized by a legitimate organization like the US Green Building Council. It has one LEED Single Family Home Award owing to its Platinum Level LEED For Homes Certification. The key challenge we have encountered is first and foremost having to organize an integrated design team involving many professionals. Another challenge is how to adapt the LEED metrics to this Southeast Asia project. All in all, the great cooperation and enthusiasm of the Project Owner and his team and the willingness of the professionals, suppliers, and service providers involved in the project to scale the certification process. “YY House is a LEED Platinum-certified single-detached family home sitting in the middle of a buzzing industrial city in Cebu. It is the first home in the Philippines and in the Southeast Asian region to be certified under the LEED for Homes V4.1 rating system. We are proud of what the project has achieved in terms of sustainability metrics.” These metrics act as testament to the success of the overall project, including a HERS rating of -173, achieved through diligent insulation, and on-site renewable energy generation. Plus, as Filemon continues, “autoclaved aerated concrete blocks and NFRC-certified windows were utilized to achieve outstanding energy efficiencies. Other energy-saving strategies include an Energy Star washer-dryer, a Heat Pump Boiler, a Variable Refrigerant Flow HVAC system with individual room thermostats and occupancy sensors, highFMK3 Architects remains a culmination of Principal Filemon M. Kapuno III’s work, ethos and achievements, utilising his wealth of experiences earned working at an acclaimed architectural design company. On the back of the dual recognition in the awards programme, we spoke to Filemon to find out more. T Mar23562 Best Bespoke Modern Home Design Architecture Firm 2023 – Cebu & Best Completed Contemporary Residential House Design Project 2023 (Cebu): YY House efficiency lighting (0.37W/sqft) with smart lighting regulators, and Energy Star-rated exterior doors.” YY House Specifications and Design Criteria Indoor Environmental Quality As the owner’s design brief called for exceptional air quality for family members with asthma and environmental allergies, the designer incorporated an all-weather walk-off mat, a shoe removal area, and MERV 13 filters for the HVAC. Toilets and living areas were fitted with Ecocarat tiles that regulate humidity and absorb harmful airborne matter. Sustainable Sites Located within an area averaging sixty inches of rainfall per year, run-off rainwater is diverted to an on-site cistern that goes through a 4-stage purifying process converting ample potable water that enables the house to be independent of the local water utility. DarkSky Certified lights were mounted on the outdoor spaces to avoid light pollution and keep harmony with nocturnal habitats. Water Efficiency WaterSense labelled lavatory faucets, shower heads, and fixtures were installed. Additional points were awarded for installing a smart irrigation system that is capable of detecting atmospheric moisture and regulating the amount of water to be discharged. FMK3 Architects
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