Paghimo: Redesigning the historically rich Paco Train Station
Maxene P. Jovellanos1*, Mikaela Jeleina V. Rabacca1, and Chelsi Marian K. Uy1
1De La Salle University Integrated School
Virginia M. Lacsamana
1De La Salle University Integrated School
Abstract or Executive Summary:This study is conducted by Grade 12 Arts and Design students of De La Salle University-Manila in regards to the recreation of the abandoned Paco Train Station through the method of adaptive reuse. The primary objective of this paper is to enforce a new and functional purpose for the historical site by providing amenities and transforming it into an exhibition space or art gallery that would feature Philippine history and culture. To ensure that the artwork will be created with enough knowledge about the said method, the researchers have conducted a comprehensive literature review discussing topics from the sociocultural relevance of the preservation of historical sites up to the various principles and considerations when aiming for sustainable designs. With this, Form Follows Function design philosophy and Productivism theory were utilized. This project includes the creation of the following: floor plan, side and frontal elevations, a rendered exterior perspective, and the conceptual scaled model of the redesigned building, all of which were created through AutoCAD, Procreate, and various materials. With these, the researchers aim to ultimately bring life to the abandoned space while still ensuring that not only the preservation of the building's cultural values and assets are strategically considered, but also its possible capital. Additionally, to further refine this research concept, they interviewed and presented the plans to an NCCA architect and a professional architect who specialized in design issues and requirements to critique and assist with the needed site revisions. This study was completed in April 2022.
Keywords:paco train station; adaptive reuse; redesign; preserving historical sites; productivism
1. INTRODUCTION
1.1.Background
Train stations, have been a massive staple in many cities. Most notably, they are a practical way for the masses to transport easily without having the need to own a vehicle.
In reality, these stations have become a part of the public's daily experience, with the quality of the experience influencing their way of life. Similarly, because train stations are integral in many communities, they have the potential to become a space for social interaction, information exchange, activity, and expression in the community. Currently, train stations, particularly abandoned ones, are not being used for
the purposes of community exchange; however, studies suggest that the development of activity areas in and around train stations will minimize several issues, including disconnection and property crime (Well 17).
The Paco Railway Station is a currently defunct site that was once a functional railway system but was then abandoned due to a failed repurposing attempt and bankruptcy. As a result, while the structure is still standing, a portion of it has been demolished, and it has remained dormant to this day. Since then, the government has done nothing to restore the structure due to it being completely obsolete, as well as other external factors such as the skyway, which further restricts direct access to the site, and budget
issues, which cause the government to disregard the site's renovation, and a connection between the north and south rails, which eliminates the need to build the Paco Train Station. Despite this, the site has recently come under new ownership and is set to be repurposed as a shopping center.
The researchers believed that using the Paco Train Station would be the most viable opportunity in repurposing an abandoned site through adaptive reuse as it was the most familiar site to them, as well as its potential to become a monumental site with, of course, a pragmatic use. After conducting extensive research into its history, the researchers discovered that prior to its abandonment, the structure was a witness to World War II battles, with the stations serving as a key stronghold for Japanese forces during the Battle of Manila in 1945. According to an article written by Nicai De Guzman in 2019, as of today, the abandoned building now houses several artworks created by anonymous artists. The researchers then realized that this was a compelling reason to propose the concept of repurposing the site as a heritage museum or an art gallery in order to preserve the building's historical yet rich elements while revamping it into a more modern yet cultural and historical structure.
It is possible to investigate other uses for the building, however, given its history of the aforementioned World War II battles and housing several anonymous artworks after its abandonment, converting the space into a heritage museum or an art gallery would be the best and sensible option provided that it also includes amenities that hold WWII artifacts considering the structure's history.
Having said that, the researchers will not only be able to revive the structure itself, but it will also become a significant establishment that has fostered the culture and history of the Philippines.
The researchers were informed later on that the building had already been bought by a private owner.
However, there seems to be a lack of information regarding this. Hence the researchers’ design was retained. The design created by the researchers was intended for the building to be remade into a museum; hence most of the area is open spaced, making the design versatile to any purpose.
The proposed redesign of the structure is an adaptation of its original appearance for the reason that the researchers will preserve specific portions of the building while incorporating elements of other architectural designs
such as Neoclassical and Traditional Filipino Revival.
Moreover, this implies not only the preservation of an important piece of cultural and historical heritage but also an adaptation to modernity and a new purpose in the foreseeable future.
Neoclassical and Traditional Filipino Revival was also incorporated through a combination of its original architectural design and additional stylization of Filipino design archetypes. Given that the researchers are limited in their design of the structure, as nothing should be eliminated nor modified in terms of the original structural design, and instead, only incorporating more features, the researchers decided to revamp the establishment's windows and doors to make them appear more Filipino Traditional. Moreover, a second floor was also included to maximize the space given in relation to its proposed purpose. To elaborate on its design, the materials that will be used are indigenous, specifically Capiz and Philippine mahogany.
1.2.Objectives
Given the importance and benefits of adaptive reuse to abandoned buildings, this study seeks to examine more about the site and investigate effective ways to redesign and optimize it while preserving the original construct of the building and what remains of the structure's facade. With that said, this study specifically asks the following questions:
1. By what means can the researchers integrate the Paco Train Station’s historic features into the proposed redesign?
2. In what ways would the inclusion of the additional design elements benefit the site's overall attraction?
3. How will the design layout of the structure improve the functionality of the space?
In addition, the proposed redesign of the Paco Railway Station includes a detailed floor plan, front elevation, sectional elevation, and a two-point perspective drawing as a way to form the conceptualization of the study fully, and lastly, a conceptual scaled model of the final design. Overall, the primary objective of this study is to propose a beneficial concept for the abandoned site to its community, as well as to develop it with a new image that will provide functionality and service for everyone.
1.3.Scope and Limitations
Given that the researchers have little actual knowledge in architecture and construction, the complexity of the study will be limited. Hence, the best possible materials that can be used to build the redesigned site were not discussed and others beyond the researchers' skills. The effectiveness of this study in terms of providing actual data to prove the benefits of the final developed concept was also not discussed. In addition, the time allotted for the researchers to conduct this study can also affect the extent of the discussion, as well as the limitation in terms of the resources or references regarding the information about the Paco PNR available online.
Furthermore, the study does not cover the implications of the redesign on the community surrounding it and by extension, the researchers did not gather input from individuals who could be affected by the redesign as the safety protocols brought by the current pandemic have limited the researchers in this aspect.
As previously mentioned, the researchers retained the redesign that was made despite the knowledge that the Paco Train Station is now privately owned. The researchers found that there were no plans that are currently found in public access. Due to the lack of information regarding this, the ownership of the site will not be considered. This study will solely focus on the design of the train station itself, the enhancement and application of the adaptive reuse process, as well as the architectural aspects of the said redesign.
2. THE PROCESS
2.1.Research MethodologiesThe study’s primary methodology was a comprehensive literature review. The literature review covered many aspects related to the redesign, specifically (1) the Socio-cultural relevance of Historical Sites, (2) Preserving and Repurposing Abandoned Sites, (3) The Past and the Present of the Paco Train Station, (4) Similar Sites to Paco Train Station that were Repurposed/Redesigned, (5) The Principles and Considerations essential to Sustainable Design. Each of these topics was utilized to be able to create a realistic, sustainable, and respectful design. As Paco Train Station has substantial damage and ruins, it is essential for the researchers to have designed it in a way that still preserves the integrity of the iconic facade while also applying modern techniques and materials so that it will have a stronger
foundation and can last until the foreseeable future. An article written by Chong and Balasigan significantly helped the researchers understand that preserving and repurposing a historical site must not only maintain the rich history it contains but also be sustainable in a way that contributes to heritage preservation while being a contributing factor in a country’s economic and cultural development.
In addition to the comprehensive literature review, the researchers opted to conduct interviews with architects and individuals that have expert knowledge of the Paco Train Station and its history. The first interviewee was Mr. Richard Tuason-Sanchez Bautista, an architect of the National Commission for Culture and Arts. Mr. Bautista gave insight on the historical preservation of Paco Train Station and how best it can be redesigned. The second interviewee was Mr.
Alex Arboleda, an architect with experience in renovations and redesigning. He gave insights on the more technical aspects, such as accurate measurements and how to scale the elevation drawings and floor plan properly.
2.2. Production Processes
During the early pre-production phase, the researchers each presented an idea on which the research should center, and ultimately, redesigning Paco Train Station was most suitable and feasible considering the limitations of the researchers’ knowledge of architectural and engineering concepts. Once that was decided, the work began on looking for sources, specifically on renovation and redesign methods
& techniques on historical sites. It was also a consideration if there had been any previous plans or framework to revive the station. After most of the written parts of the paper had essentially been done, the researchers got to work on creating the floorplan, elevations (front and sectional) as well as the rendered perspective drawing. And during the first weeks of their last term, they constructed the scaled model of the building using the 1:150 scale to visualize the ideas and concepts the researchers had formulated and refined from the very beginning.
2.3. Materials and Techniques
The research paper follows the design philosophy of Productivist Art. This research, which focuses on preserving, reusing, and redesigning the decommissioned Paco Train Station, is primarily concerned with Productivism.
This concept was looking to have art serve a practical
purpose in industries and production (DBPedia). Artists before developed the Productivism theory with the sole purpose of designing a better environment for human beings.
With this in mind, artists are not creating or visualizing a design solely for aesthetic purposes, but they should also take into account whether this design will benefit the people who will utilize their produced art, which in this case, is the Paco Train Station. This theory is also very similar to the idea of
"Form Follows Function" by Louis H. Sullivan, wherein whatever the researchers add to the building's remains should have a significant benefaction to the site's overall purpose.
Hence, the researchers used this theory and philosophy as their lens in viewing and creating the possible redesign of the station, not just to contribute to the preservation of historical arts but also to improve the lives of Filipinos.
The floorplan of the Paco PNR was created using AutoCAD so that it would be accurate and appropriately scaled. On the contrary, the front and sectional elevations were made in Procreate and Adobe Illustrator, respectively.
This is due to the fact that not all of the researchers have access to the AutoCAD software; hence adjustments had to be made. The perspective drawing was also made in Procreate, as the researchers have more experience using this software in creating perspective drawings and rendering.
Nonetheless, the group has managed to draw the following outputs in scale to envision their redesign concept accurately.
The conceptual scaled model was created using the following materials: foam board and Sintra board. This is to create a clean look that can present the design accurately and in scale. For this project, the researchers used 1:150 to represent the redesigned Paco Train Station turned into an art/exhibition gallery.
3. THE ARTWORK/ CREATIVE WORK
Attached below are the proposed floor plan (Figure 1 and 2), elevations (Figure 3 and 4), perspective (Figure 5), and scaled model (Figure 6-12) the researchers created to visualize the layout of the redesigned structure. Based on the 2019 ArchiNEXT competition titled ANYUHAY: An Adaptive Reuse Toward Structural Rebirth resources, the overall lot area of the PNR Paco Train Station is 7,500 sqm (ArchiNEXT Admin). With this data, the researchers used 56.3 meters by 18.5 meters for the actual building and 48.8 by 19.5 meters for the parking lot.
Since the site will be abandoning its initial purpose, which is being a train station transformed into an art gallery, the researchers included enough parking space for visitors.
The inclusion of parking space will be located in the lot extension of the train station. Moreso, this is also to address the area's inaccessibility as the entrance and exit of the parking lot are beside the road, so entering the site is more convenient and may attract more visitors to engage with the place. There are two floors, both having ample space for the exhibition area wherein various artists' paintings, sculptures, and other art pieces will be displayed. One staircase is placed on the right side of the site, and two fire exits on both the left and right sides of the building for the safety and convenience of the visitors. Two elevators are also included for the visitors and lifting heavy displays to the second floor.
Since the researchers utilized the Productivist theory and the Form Follows Function philosophy, the layout of the site was kept open and simple so that there would be more room and freedom for the exhibition curators' creative thinking. Here, the researchers left the possible layout and customization of the exhibition or art gallery to the agencies, which will have different products or art pieces to showcase to the public. This will also be added income for the Paco PNR if they rent the space for the aforementioned purpose or as a seminar/workshop place. The session hall can occupy 147 people, and there is also a cafe and gift shop located on the ground floor for the amenities of the site. In addition, office space for the administrators or supervisors of the place is located on the second floor, wherein they can hold their meetings and discuss the events that are going to be held in the Paco PNR transformed into an art gallery.
However, the researchers would like to emphasize that despite leaving the managing part of the art gallery to the exhibition curators, the theme of the artworks to be included in the renovated Paco Train Station should be centered around the Philippine history while generating new values for all Filipinos and gaining more recognition for their culture and their country’s identity. Overall, the researchers wanted to provide a new purpose without straying away from their main goal, which is to preserve the historical significance of the past while adapting to the needs of the present.
Fig. 1.Floor Plan of Redesigned Paco PNR
Fig. 2.Floor Plan of Redesigned Paco PNR
Figure 1 is the final floor plan of the whole redesigned site in 1:50 scale. Figure 2 includes the addition of lighting design both for the interior and exterior of the building.
Fig. 3.Front Elevation
Figure 3 features the structure’s facade as well as the integration of Traditional Filipino styles, as evidenced by the addition of capiz windows placed on both floors. In the aspect of reconstruction, a second floor is added to optimize the space of the structure. Both floors have high ceilings so that curators will have full control over the area, as well as no
issues with managing larger artworks. This is drawn using the 1:150 scale.
Fig. 4.Sectional Elevation
Figure 4 showcases the sectional elevation of the right side of the proposed layout. This side includes the elevators, special exhibition area, and the gift shop. It also features a fire escape that cascades from the second floor to the ground floor.
Fig. 5 Rendered Exterior Perspective
Figure 5 is the rendered perspective of the whole site using the software Procreate to create a proper visualization or reference for the final output.
Fig. 6 Conceptual Scaled Model - Wide Shot
Fig. 7 Conceptual Scaled Model - Close up
Fig. 8Conceptual Scaled Model - Rear
Fig. 9 Conceptual Scaled Model - Front
Fig. 10 Conceptual Scaled Model - Bird’s Eye View
Fig. 11Conceptual Scaled Model - Ground Floor
Fig. 12 Conceptual Scaled Model - Second Floor
Figures 6-12 are the various shots of the scaled model created by the researchers using the 1:150 scale. This features all the structures found on the site, as well as the visualization of the divisions of each room and the space allotted for the whole exhibit areas. The second floor of the scaled model, as well as the roof of the building, are both detachable so that the interior can easily be seen. Hence, the building is not entirely glued or fixed, as seen in the pictures.
4. CONCLUSION
There are numerous Historical Buildings in the country that are neglected due to financial reasons or the main fact that sites like these are of least importance and priority to the government today. Although restoring abandoned buildings may take much more time, effort, and budget to accomplish, the researchers believe that it is something worth doing for it is an act of maximizing all of its resources and capabilities while benefiting the whole Filipino community.
Through this study, the researchers were able to find out the Paco PNR can still be redeveloped through adaptive reuse moreover, integrate the local culture and history by providing certain amenities like the suggested War Museum. In this case, the researchers added Filipino archetypes to the exterior of the building, such as the inclusion of the capiz windows and Philippine mahogany to the building’s establishment, while still preserving the main identity of the Paco Train Station with its remaining facade.
And although the researchers have already accomplished the artwork, this study can be their reference, as well as to other future researchers, to guide them in finding more elaborate and effective ways of redesigning and reinventing a dead space. Indeed, the researchers are assured that they have raised the importance of research regarding historic site preservation, including the local culture, history, and art appreciation, and are determined to resume this in the future if the opportunity presents itself. Consequently, the
researchers are opening the prospect for future researchers to advocate the protection of our cultural heritage, which is the monument of our roots and the living proof of our community’s long-standing history. Moreover, the researchers hope the community places more value on cultural heritage and preservation to prevent it from becoming a dying practice.
5. RECOMMENDATIONS
As Grade 12 senior high school students who are also limited by the online setting of their classes, it is vital to consider that there are certain restrictions that the group’s study has in regards to the expansion of knowledge about the researchers’ chosen topic. Hence, the researchers would like to suggest the following for the improvement of this paper;
● First, although the design plan created by the researchers has already been reviewed by an architect, the sizing and utilities needed inside the building need further study, including careful consideration of the National Building Code and other laws that are already beyond the researcher’s knowledge. Hence, the researchers would recommend looking more into the proper layout of the rooms that would result in a better cohesive-looking area yet still functionally maximized as much as possible.
● In relation to the previous statement, the researchers would also like to suggest holding a separate interview with a professional museum curator that can provide insights into how much space is needed and other requirements to be followed in creating an efficacious and practical art gallery.
6. ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
The researchers would like to express gratitude and appreciation to the following:
● To their research adviser, Mrs. Virginia Lacsamana, for her unwavering support and guidance throughout the conceptualization of this study. Her valuable suggestions and approachability encouraged the researchers not to be afraid to
explore and grow as learners.
● To their research mentor, Sir Fernando Lacson, for his guidance and patience during the creation and conceptualization of the study. His encouragement and constructive insights have undoubtedly helped the researchers fulfill this study.
● To the following architects, Ar. Richard Tuason-Sanchez Bautista and Ar. Alex Arboleda for sharing their knowledge and expertise with the researchers by providing suggestions and recommendations for the enhancement of the redesigned site.
● To the researchers’ parents for providing additional funds needed to buy various materials for the produced artworks and for their continuous guidance.
● To the Almighty God, for His blessings and grace and for giving the researchers the patience and perseverance in accomplishing the study. Without him, this study would not have been possible.
7. WORKS CITED
Admin. “Competition 2019.”archinext.ph, ArchiNEXT, 2018, archinext.ph/competition-2019.
Chong, K.Y. and Balasingam, A.S. “Tourism Sustainability:
Economic Benefits and Strategies for Preservation and Conservation of Heritage Sites in Southeast Asia.”emerald.com,Emerald Insight, 12 July 2018, www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/TR- 11-2017-0182/full/html.
“Productivism (Art).”dbpedia.org, DBpedia,
dbpedia.org/page/Productivism_(art). Accessed 26 May 2022.
Guzman, Nicai de. “There’s Art Hidden Inside This Abandoned Manila Railway Station.”
esquiremag.ph, Esquire, 1 Jan. 1970,
www.esquiremag.ph/culture/lifestyle/paco-railway- station-history-a1729-20190301-lfrm.
Well, Village. “Train Stations as Places for Community Wellbeing.”Vichealth,Vichealth, 2006, p.17
