Spatial and Material Memory
Dominion
Philippines | Mixed – use | 2018
Dominion was remotely designed in Australia for a North American client and realised through construction in the Philippines, reflecting a cross-continental collaboration.
Originally a 1950s family home, the project reinterprets the site as a mixed-use building. Although the original structure was demolished due to structural failure, its spatial logic and material memory were carefully retained and reimagined in the new design.
Concept
Material Memory
Breeze blocks — once embedded in the original home — return as the new façade, reinterpreted in pattern and carrying its material memory forward.
This new screen moderates the intense westerly sun and heavy rainfall while allowing ventilation, filtered views, and privacy to the balconies.
Spatial Memory
Beyond material continuity, the rhythm of openings and proportions in the elevations subtly recall the spatial order of the original home.
The tripartite plan and main entry are retained, with the central hallway continuing as the organising spine — preserving its sequence and procession.
Design Development
Construction
Salvaged timber and galvanized iron roofing were repurposed for construction formwork and hoardings, while existing doors, floorboards and window grills were refurbished and reinstalled, preserving the material memory of the original home.
