LEGASPI, DAISY A.

BSAR-5B
ARCH 533
 ABOUT PALAFOX
Palafox Associates is a an architectural and
planning firm based in the Philippines that was
founded by Felino "Jun" Palafox Jr., a renowned
Filipino architect and urban planner. The company’s
team consist of more than a hundred full-time staff
of architects, urban planners, environmental
planners, interior designers, engineers, consultants,
and other professionals. A company that is
passionate about planning and designing resilient,
sustainable, inclusive, and smart places for people
and spaces that contribute to the overall health of Photo by Tatler Asia

communities and cities.

Felino Palafox Jr.
Founder
Palafox Associates is a multidisciplinary firm
He lectured in more than 20 countries
with expertise in Architecture, Urban and Regional across the globe, including institutions like
Planning, Environmental Planning, Site Planning, the Massachusetts Institute of
Technology and Harvard University. He
Master Planning, Urban Design, Interior Design, has traveled to and observed more than
1,000 cities in 79 countries.
Engineering, and Strategic Development Advisory.
Recipient of several local and international
awards. In 2019, he was recognized as the
The firm is known for its expertise in creating Most Outstanding Professional in the Field
of Environmental Planning by the
sustainable and innovative designs for various types Professional Regulation Commission. In
November 2017, he was awarded by the
of developments, such as residential, commercial, JCI Senate as one of the three Top
and institutional projects. Palafox Associates has Outstanding Filipinos for the field of
Architecture. Forbes Asia Magazine has
played a significant role in shaping the urban cited him as one of the 48 Heroes of
Philanthropy in Asia.
landscape in the Philippines and has contributed to
the development of master plans for cities and He studied Architecture at the University
of Santo Tomas. An advocate of
regions. continuing education and lifelong learning,
Architect Jun Palafox earned his Master’s
degree in Urban and Regional Planning
Guided by the design principle of “integral from the University of the Philippines. He
also completed the Advanced
ecology” — balancing social equity with protecting Management Development Program for
Real Estate at the Harvard Graduate
and conserving natural environments, inclusive School of Design.
economic growth, culture, history, and interfaith
spirituality — the firm have a strong commitment to Diverse Portfolio. It has worked on a diverse range of projects.
It has has provided planning and design services for
International Presence. developments in other countries (e.g. UAE, Saudi

prevent negative development impacts on people

Arabia etc.

Influence on Urban It has contributed to the development of comprehensive

urban plans aimed at improving the livability and sustainability
Development. of cities and regions.

and the environment. Recognition Itplans

has contributed to the development of comprehensive urban
aimed at improving the livability and sustainability of
and Awards. cities and regions.

About the Company - Palafox Associates

Business Management and Application of Architecture 02
 ‘MACROFORCES’
AFFECTING ITS MANAGEMENT

Economic Forces
Palafox Associates may be influenced by economic conditions
that affect the construction and development industry.
Economic downturns can lead to reduced investment in real
estate and infrastructure projects, impacting the firm's
business. Conversely, economic growth may create
opportunities for expansion and increased demand for their
services.
Construction Analytics Building Cost Index
Construction Inflation

4. Real Estate Market recessions or economic growth,

especially if they have an
1. Market Demand for Conditions: international clientele or if their adapt and invest in new
projects are sensitive to global technologies.
Construction Services: The state of the real estate
market directly affects economic conditions.
There's this notion that to grow architectural firms. Economic
a business, you have to be 9. Labor Market Conditions:
forces that influence property 7. Currency Exchange Rates:
ruthless. But we know there's a values, such as housing booms Economic forces affecting the
better way to grow. One where For firms engaged in
or busts, impact the volume and availability and cost of skilled
what's good for the bottom line international projects,
type of architectural projects. labor can impact the feasibility
is also good for customers. We fluctuations in currency
exchange rates can impact and profitability of projects. Labor
create movement to empower shortages may lead to increased
businesses around the world to 5. Government Spending project costs, profits, and
competitiveness in the global wages, affecting project budgets.
return their focus to the and Policies:
customer. market.
Government policies related to
infrastructure spending and 8. Technological Advances: 10. Environmental
2. Interest Rates: public projects can significantly
Economic forces driving
Regulations and
Changes in interest rates can
impact architectural firms.
technological changes in Sustainability Trends:
Economic forces that affect
influence borrowing costs for construction materials and Economic forces influencing
government budgets and
both clients and the firm. methods can influence the environmental regulations and
spending priorities may
Higher interest rates may result types of pojects in demand and the demand for sustainable
influence the availability of
in reduced investment in may require design can impact the types of
public-sector projects.
construction projects, while architectural projects sought by clients and
lower rates may stimulate firms the firm's ability to meet
demand. 6. Global Economic Trends to evolving market
Architectural firms may preferences.
3. Inflation: be affected by global
economic trends,
Inflation can impact such as
construction costs and,
consequently, project budgets.
Rapid inflation may lead to
increased material and labor
costs, affecting the feasibility of
projects.

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Business Management and Application of Architecture

03
 ‘MACROFORCES’
AFFECTING ITS MANAGEMENT

Technological Forces
Rapid technological advancements in architecture, urban
planning, and design can both present opportunities and
1. Building Information challenges. Embracing new technologies, such as Building
Modeling (BIM):
Information Modeling (BIM) or sustainable design software, can
The adoption of BIM technology
has transformed the enhance the firm's capabilities. However, staying current with
architectural
construction
design
process.
and
BIM technological trends requires ongoing investment in training
allows for collaborative and
integrated 3D modeling,
and resources.
improving coordination among
different stakeholders and
enhancing project efficiency. 5. Parametric Design connectivity, enhancing both
Software:
functionality and sustainability. Did You $7.8B
2. 3D Printing and Parametric design tools allow Know?
Prototyping: architects to create complex 9. Digital Fabrication and
and dynamic design solutions The global market for architectural
The adoption of BIM technology by defining parameters and
CNC Machining: technologies is expected to reach $7.8
has transformed the relationships within the design. billion by 2027.
Digital fabrication technologies,
architectural design and This can lead to more innovative including Computer Numerical
construction process. BIM and efficient design processes. Use of Building Information Modeling
Control (CNC) machining, (BIM) in the architecture, engineering,
allows for collaborative and
enable architects to create and construction industry will grow by
integrated 3D modeling,
improving coordination among 6. Drones and Aerial intricate and customized 14% annually by 2027.
building components with
different stakeholders and Imaging: precision, contributing to more According to a 2018 survey, only 13% of
enhancing project efficiency.
Drones equipped with cameras complex and innovative architects did not use BIM software.
provide architects with high- designs.
3. Virtual Reality (VR) and resolution aerial images of Over 90% of European architecture
firms believe that digital practice
Augmented Reality (AR): project sites. This technology
significantly increases productivity.
aids in site analysis, surveying, 10. Mobile Applications for
VR and AR technologies offer and monitoring construction
immersive experiences for progress, improving accuracy Fieldwork: Around 77% of architects believe that
clients to visualize designs in a technology has changed their
and efficiency. Mobile apps designed for expectations of design.
realistic manner before tablets and smartphones
construction begins. These
technologies can enhance
7. Energy Modeling and facilitate on-site data collection,
collaboration, and
communication and Simulation: communication. Architects can
understanding between use these tools to streamline
Advanced software for energy
architects and clients. fieldwork, monitor progress, and
modeling and simulation helps
architects design energy- address issues in real time.
4. Digital Collaboration efficient buildings. This
Tools: technology allows for the
analysis of different design
Cloud-based collaboration tools scenarios to optimize energy
facilitate real-time performance.
communication and file sharing
among team members, 8. Smart Building
especially in situations where
team members may be Technologies:
geographically dispersed. This Integration of smart
enhances collaboration and technologies, such as IoT
project management efficiency. (Internet of Things), allows
architects to design buildings
with features like automated
systems, energy
management,
and

Photo by Inkonline
Photo by Rethinking The Future -
Rockwell Center

Business Management and Application of Architecture

04
 ‘MACROFORCES’
AFFECTING ITS MANAGEMENT

Sociocultural Forces
Changing societal preferences and cultural trends can influence
1. Cultural Diversity and
the types of projects Palafox Associates engages in. For
Sensitivity: instance, a growing emphasis on sustainable and eco-friendly
Architects need to be attuned design may shape the firm's approach. Additionally, societal
to cultural diversity and
sensitivity, considering the attitudes toward urbanization and community development can
multicultural aspects of design
preferences and ensuring that
impact the demand for their services.
projects are inclusive and
respectful of various cultural
norms.
9. Community Engagement
that promote physical and and equal access to the built and Participation:
2. Trends in Lifestyle and mental well-being. This includes environment.
incorporating natural light, Increasingly, there is a desire for
Work Patterns: green spaces, and health- community engagement in the
Changes in lifestyle, such as the conscious building features. design process. Architects may
rise of remote work, co-living
7. Technological Integration need to involve local communities
spaces, or sustainable living, can in Daily Life: in the planning and design of
influence the demand for projects to ensure they align with
specific types of architectural
5. Historical Preservation The prevalence of technology in community values and needs.
and Adaptive Reuse: daily life influences design
designs and amenities.
preferences. Architects may
Societal appreciation for need to consider how 10. Aesthetic Preferences
3. Sustainable and historical preservation and technology is integrated into and Design Trends:
adaptive reuse of existing living spaces, including smart
Eco-Friendly Design structures can influence the home features and connectivity. Societal preferences for
Preferences: type of projects pursued by architectural styles and design
Growing awareness and architectural firms. This reflects trends can impact the market
concern for environmental a cultural interest in preserving demand for specific aesthetics.
heritage and repurposing older 8. Urbanization and Staying attuned to evolving
issues may lead to increased
demand for sustainable and buildings. Compact Living: design preferences is crucial for
eco-friendly design practices. architectural firms.
Sociocultural trends toward
Clients may prioritize green urbanization and a preference
building materials, energy 6. Accessibility and for compact living spaces can
efficiency, and environmentally
Inclusivity: influence the design of
conscious designs. residential and commercial Did You
4. Wellness and Health-
Sociocultural forces may drive a
greater emphasis on designing
structures. Architects may need
to optimize space in response to
Know?
spaces that are accessible to changing urban demographics. The Three (3) Sociocultural factors in
Centric Design: people with disabilities, community architecture are:
reflecting a commitment to GEOGRAPHY & ECOLOGY,
There is a rising focus on ANTHROPOLOGY, and CULTURAL
wellness in architecture, with inclusivity LANDSCAPE. (Camasin, 2017)
an emphasis on
designs

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Fisher Mall

Business Management and Application of Architecture

05
 ‘MACROFORCES’
AFFECTING ITS MANAGEMENT

Natural Disasters and

Human-Induced
Natural Disasters

1. EARTHQUAKES: Given Palafox Associates' involvement in

Problems
Architects need to design
structures that are resilient to
environmental and urban planning, they would likely be affected
seismic activity, especially in
regions prone to earthquakes.
by natural disasters and human-induced issues. Climate change,
This involves implementing for example, may necessitate a focus on resilient and
seismic building codes and
incorporating earthquake- sustainable design to mitigate risks associated with extreme
resistant features into designs.
weather events. Human-induced problems like pollution or
2. FLOOFING: resource depletion could also influence planning strategies.
Architectural firms in flood-
prone areas must consider
elevation, flood-resistant and landscaping practices that lity. This can affect the construction projects and impact
materials, and drainage systems reduce the risk of fire spreading continuity of projects, legal the way people use and perceive
to mitigate the impact of floods to structures. Additionally, frameworks, and the overall built spaces. Architects may need
on buildings. Sustainable and evacuation routes and safe business environment. to incorporate health and safety
resilient design practices can be zones may need to be measures into designs.
crucial. incorporated into designs. 2. ECONOMIC
DOWNTURNS:
3. HURRICANE AND 5. TORNADOES: 6. SOCIAL ISSUES:
Economic downturns can lead
CYCLONES: In tornado-prone regions, to a decrease in construction Social issues, such as protests or
architects should design projects as clients may cut back community opposition to specific
Architects in coastal regions
buildings that can withstand on investments. Architectural projects, can delay or halt
susceptible to hurricanes or
the high winds associated with firms may experience reduced construction. Architects may need
cyclones need to design
tornadoes. This may involve demand, delayed projects, or to engage with communities and
structures that can withstand
incorporating reinforced increased competition for fewer stakeholders to address concerns
high winds, heavy rainfall, and
structures and safe rooms into opportunities. and ensure project acceptance.
storm surges. This may involve
considerations like wind- designs.
resistant materials and elevated 3. RESOURCE SCARCITY:
foundations. 7. CLIMATE CHANGE AND
6. LANDSLIDES: Shortages of construction
materials or skilled labor can ENVIRONMENTAL
Architects working in hilly or
4. WILDFIRES: impact project timelines and CHALLENGES:
mountainous areas should be
costs. Architects need to Architects must consider the
Architects in areas prone to aware of landslide risks. Site
navigate these challenges by long-term impact of climate
wildfires must consider fire- selection, slope stabilization
exploring alternative materials, change on the built environment,
resistant materials measures, and proper
sourcing options, and adapting including rising sea levels,
foundation design are crucial
designs accordingly. extreme weather events, and
considerations.
shifting environmental conditions.
4. REGULATORY CHANGES: Sustainable and resilient design
Human-Induced Problems practices are increasingly
Changes in building codes,
important.
1. POLITICAL zoning regulations, or
environmental policies can
INSTABILITY: impact architectural projects.
Architectural firms Architects must stay informed
may face challenges about regulatory changes and
in regions experienc- adjust their designs to comply
ing political instabi- with new requirements.

5. PANDEMICS
Events like pandemics, as
demonstrated by the COVID-19
crisis, can disrupt
Did You Know?
The Philippines, situated in the Pacific
Ring of Fire, is prone to earthquakes,
volcanic eruptions, and flooding. In 2021,
the region experienced over 60 billion
Philippine pesos in damages, mainly
due to storms.

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Crow n Regency Hotels and Resorts

Business Management and Application of Architecture

06
 ‘MACROFORCES’
AFFECTING ITS MANAGEMENT

Government and
Political Forces
1. Building Codes and
Regulations: Government policies and political stability are critical factors.
Governments establish building Changes in regulations related to land use, zoning, and
codes and regulations to ensure
the safety and compliance of
environmental impact assessments can significantly impact
structures. Changes in these Palafox Associates' projects. Political stability is essential for
codes can affect the design
process, construction costs, and the continuity of projects, and the firm may need to navigate
the feasibility of projects
undertaken by architectural varying regulatory environments in different countries.
firms.

2. Zoning Laws and Land

that streamline or complicate affordable housing or energy- adaptive reuse projects
Use Policies: the issuance of permits for efficient buildings. Architectural undertaken by architectural firms.
Zoning laws and land use construction projects. firms need to be aware of these
policies set the parameters for incentives, as they can influence
where and how buildings can project feasibility.
5. Public-Private Partner- 11. Affordable Housing
be constructed. Architects must
be aware of and comply with ships (PPPs): Initiatives:
these regulations, which may
8. Government
Government policies promoting
influence the size, height, and or discouraging public-private Procurement Policies: Government initiatives aimed at
addressing affordable housing
purpose of buildings in specific partnerships can influence the Architectural firms may be shortages may create
areas. types of projects available to affected by government opportunities for architectural
architectural firms. PPPs may procurement policies that firms to contribute to the design
3. Environmental open up opportunities for dictate how public projects are of housing solutions that meet
Regulations: collaboration on public awarded. Understanding the regulatory requirements and
infrastructure projects. procurement process and community needs.
Government regulations related criteria is essential for firms
to environmental protection can seeking government contracts.
impact architectural designs. 6. Infrastructure
Requirements for sustainable Investment:
and eco-friendly buildings may
Government investment in
9. Political Stability and
influence the selection of
infrastructure projects, such as Policy Predictability:
materials, energy systems, and
transportation, healthcare, and Political stability and
overall project design.
education facilities, can create predictable policymaking
opportunities for architectural contribute to a favorable
4. Permitting Processes: firms. Economic policies that business environment. Unstable
The efficiency and complexity of prioritize infrastructure political situations, changes in
the permitting process can development can positively leadership, or unpredictable
impact project timelines and impact the industry. policy shifts can introduce
costs. Architectural firms are uncertainties for architectural
affected by government poli- 7. Tax Incentives and firms.
cies Credits:
10. Historic Preservation
Governments may offer tax
Laws:
incentives or credits to promote
certain types of Governments often have laws
development, and policies related to the
such preservation of historic build-
as i ings and sites. These
regulations can
influence the reno
-vation and

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Clark Freeport Zone

Business Management and Application of Architecture

07
 How they keep their company going depite
these EXTERNAL‘MACROFORCES’

General strategies that PALAFOX adopt

to stay industry-fit in the face of various
external forces, including economic,
technological, sociocultural, and
government/political factors:

1. Diversification of Services:
Offering a diverse range of architectural
services allows firms to adapt to changing
market demands. Palafox Associates might
explore opportunities in sustainable design,
urban planning, or historic preservation to
diversify their portfolio.

2. Adoption of Technology:
Embracing cutting-edge technologies, such as
Building Information Modeling (BIM), virtual
reality, and digital collaboration tools, can
enhance design capabilities and improve
project efficiency. This positions the firm as
technologically advanced and competitive in
the industry.

3. Sustainability Focus:
Given the increasing emphasis on sustainability,
architectural firms can integrate
environmentally friendly practices into their
designs. Palafox Associates might prioritize
energy-efficient designs, green building
materials, and LEED certification to align with
changing societal values.

4. Community Engagement:
Actively engaging with local
communities and stakeholders can
enhance a firm's reputation and
help address sociocultural 8. Compliance and Regulation HOW CAN I APPLY THESE FINDINGS TO
considerations. This could involve ARCHITECTURAL PRACTICE?
seeking community input in the Management:
design process and ensuring that Given the impact of government and political Identify Relevant Insights:
projects align with community forces, firms need to stay informed about Summarize main findings related to
needs and values. changes in regulations and building codes. architectural trends, technology, socio-
Palafox Associates might establish robust cultural preferences, and regulations.
compliance management systems to ensure Integrate Sustainability:
5. Continual Learning and that their designs adhere to the latest Embrace eco-friendly design principles,
Adaptation: standards. use sustainable materials, and optimize
Staying abreast of industry trends, energy efficiency.
changes in regulations, and 9. Agile Project Management: Leverage Technology:
advancements in architectural Adopting agile project management Stay current with technological tools like
practices is crucial. Palafox methodologies allows architectural firms to BIM and VR to enhance design processes.
Associates may invest in ongoing respond quickly to changing client needs or Community Engagement:
professional development for their unexpected external factors. Flexibility in Involve local communities in the design
team to ensure they remain at the project execution can be a key asset in a process to align projects with their needs
forefront of industry knowledge. dynamic business environment. and values.
Adapt to Aesthetics:
6. Strategic Partnerships: 10. Marketing and Branding: Adjust design aesthetics based on
evolving socio-cultural preferences.
Forming strategic partnerships with Effectively communicating the firm's values,
other firms, contractors, or suppliers expertise, and commitment to innovation Stay Compliant:
can provide Palafox Associates with through marketing and branding can Stay informed about regulatory changes
a broader network and resources. enhance its visibility and reputation. This can and ensure projects comply with the
This collaborative approach may latest standards.
be crucial in attracting clients and
help them tackle larger or more differentiating from competitors. Prioritize Wellness:
complex projects. Incorporate design elements that
promote health and well-being.
7. Global Perspective: Explore New Projects & Collaborate:
It's important to note that specific strategies can vary
Architectural firms explore projects based on the firm's size, market, and specialization. Diversify and Collaborate with other firms
in different regions to diversify their Palafox Associates, or any architectural firm, would or specialists to enhance capabilities.
client base and mitigate risks likely tailor its responses to the specific challenges Continual Learning:
associated with localized economic and opportunities presented by the external forces
Foster a culture of continual learning
or political challenges. affecting its industry.
within the practice to stay at the forefront
of industry knowledge.

Palafox Associates - How They Work with different External Environment

Business Management and Application of Architecture 08
 https://www.palafoxassociates.com/

Honesty, Integrity, and 5/F PCCI Corporate Center,

118 L.P. Leviste Street, Salcedo
Professionalism- Palafox Village, Makati City 1227,
Philippines
Felino Palafox Jr.
UNIT 7, MEZZANINE CORABES
TOWER BLDG, GEMSVILLE
SUBDIVISION, 1 DIAMOND ST,
CEBU CITY, 6000 CEBU

REFERENCES Urban planner and architect Felino “Jun” Palafox on

Sustainability through Green Infrastructures
(2021). Retrieved from
Sabrina, D. (2014). Felino Palafox: Honesty, Integrity, https://pinoybuilders.ph/urban-planner-
and Professionalism. Inkone. Retrieved from and-architect-felino-jun-palafox-on-sustainability-
https://ink.enderuncolleges.com/2014/07/25/ through-green-infrastructures/
felino-palafox/

Santos, T. (2007). Archt. Felino Palafox Jr. Thomasian

urban (planning) legend. Retrieved from
https://varsitarian.net/breaktime/20070719/archt-
felino-palafox-jr-thomasian-urban-
planning-legend

Razavi, N. (n.d.). 15 Projects by Palafox Associates

. Rethinking The Future. Retrieved from
https://www.re-thinkingthefuture.com/know-your-
architects/a537-15-projects-by-palafox-associates/

Palafox Associates - References

Business Management and Application of Architecture 09