VISIONS

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EXPECTATION VS REALITY. As landscape architects we have a responsibility that visions are translated from pen and ink to steel, concrete and live greens. AJM’s commitment is to take our clients’ visions, translate their ideas into designs and make sure that the images and inspirations in their hearts and minds are built. The main entrance statement at Calatagan South Beach is an example of how the drawings were executed well.

It starts by listening to our clients and translating their concepts to sketches, 3D models and perspectives.

Next comes construction documents that will guide the construction team in building the concept. To minimize deviations from the design intent our drawings should be readable and understood not just by trained professionals but by the “non technical” people who read our plans.

The marketing collaterals show visualizations that our clients commit to their buyers. And this is the real challenge: DELIVER what our clients promise to their own clients. And seeing our clients’ commitment become a reality brings out pride in our work for we shine the spotlight on those we serve.

We also work with the construction team closely. A good relationship with the engineers and other allied consultants is critical in making sure that contractors align with the drawings and instructions of the landscape architect. The results of this harmonious partnership and mutual respect and accountability will produce excellent work.

Sketching my Aspirations for the Philippines

Sketched and written by
L.Arch. AJ Moldez
PALA / IFLA

“I believe that landscape architecture has the power to change and transform lives in cities and communities. Through intentional landscape design Filipinos can have a brighter future.
The ability to sketch ideas is important in translating my visions not only for a project but for Creation as well. More importantly, I can tell resonating stories that inspire and capture the imagination through digital sketches. The intent of these strokes is to direct and guide the realization of the dreams and aspirations of our clients. It is only when we as landscape architects communicate the design through graphics that abstract ideas take physical form.
May the sketches of myself and of my colleagues be realized. May we be inspired to keep on putting our dreams and aspirations to pen and paper for the betterment of man and his environment.”

Climate Action

The Marikina River snakes through Metro Manila and flows with the Pasig River. This body of water has always been part of Marikina’s life and culture. On regular days people flock to the esplanade by the river’s banks to exercise, ride their bikes, meet people or simply to avoid vehicular traffic to get to work or to school. The vibrant life of Marikina has always been and always will be a key component to the city’s way of living.

Being a natural water catchment, the river is prone to flooding. However, deforestation and climate change has increased flood risks. The national government, the city government of Marikina and private corporations and agencies work together and come up with ongoing flood mitigating projects to protect the city from the effects of excessive and heavy rainfall. During the very recent intense storms, residents who are usually hit by these floods are happy and relieved to say that there have been no flooding in their areas. It is very important to note though that when the Marikina river water level rises, as a preemptive measure, residents living in close proximity to the river are still evacuated, even when no flood is recorded in the city.

A landscape architect’s contribution to this initiative is to make the esplanade beautiful and more usable for the people of Marikina. A simple tree lined esplanade with bike lanes, sitting areas and jogging paths reflect the Marikeño culture keeping in step with the city’s identity. Floating gardens combined with the reforestation of the mangroves may help revive the river’s biodiversity and provide people with a unique opportunity to interact with nature.

AJM’s L.Arch. AJ is proud and honored to be an adopted son of Marikina City, one of the cleanest and greenest cities in the Philippines. In its bike and pedestrian friendly culture, waste management and simple yet dignified lifestyle may this humble town serve as an example on how cities and communities are to be designed and built in harmony with nature to combat the effects of a changing climate.

People see the sketches, the built projects, the beautiful sceneries in our project sites. But behind the oohs and the aahs is a hard working community that is passionate about what we do. Kung mayroon man akong “flex” sa trabaho, ito yun : hindi lamang ito hanapbuhay para sa akin pero buhay. Mas malalim ito para sa akin, mas makabuluhan, may saysay, may kulay. Lahat ng ito para sa Maylikha. Honor. Excellence. Service. Something I picked up in my college years. Even when I was growing up my parents have planted and nurtured these seeds in me. These values were true for me then, and they still ring true to me now. Padayon.

WHAT IF WE START GREENING OUR CITIES as a strategy to mitigate the effects of climate change? What if we start introducing green and open spaces to serve as detention basins and natural stormwater runoff management strategies? What if we turn our riverbanks into esplanades and natural barriers that weaves and flows with our streams and rivers? What if our communities intentionally include parks and open spaces not just for leisure activities but to serve as sponges to absorb rainwater and treat it for reuse? What if we inspire the citizens of our cities and municipalities to TAKE PART in caring for our environment and learn how to live in harmony with nature? WHAT IF we start the conversations?

Over the years we have re-envisioned landscapes for our clients and partners. In the days when climate change and social conerns fill the pages of our news feeds, bespoke landscape architecture and transformative environments are as relevant as ever.

A CITY REENVISIONED. Imagine a city where people do not need to get into cars as their primary mode of transportation, where trees line its streets, where its citizens could stroll around with their kids and families in a safe manner.
The welfare of people is of utmost importance whenever we conceptualize our designs. Our vision is to see cities designed for people by people. It is our aim to provide places that we can be proud of. And it is our passion that landscape architecture is used as a vehicle and medium to bring this dream to life.
Reenvision. Transform. With Us.