PHILIPPINE ART DECO AND

IDES O’RACCA BUILDING

DOCUMENTATION
Content for Art Deco
Definition of Art Deco 01

History of Art Deco Archi 02

Characteristics of Art Deco Archi 03

Example of Art Deco Structures 04

Content for the IDES O'Racca Bldg.

About IDES O'Racca Bldg. 01

History of IDES O'Racca Bldg. 02

Current situation of IDES O'Racca Bldg 03

SWOT Analysis 04
 ART DECO
Art Deco, short for the French word
"Arts Décoratifs" ("decorative arts"). an
umbrella term for the wide variety of
design and architecture created
worldwide that encapsulates a broader
movement that influenced visual arts,
interior design, and product design
during the 1920s and 1930s.

(Facade of Chrysler Building, an Art Deco skyscraper on the East Side of Manhattan in New York
City)
What is Art Deco Style?
Early Art Deco was especially
luxurious, featuring exotic woods,
metals such as onyx and gold, and
other costly materials such as ivory,
leather, and mother of pearl. it
became more defined by the use of
modern materials such as chrome,
aluminum, and plastic; over time,
designs became simpler and more
modern while maintaining a sense of
elegance.
 History of Art Deco Architecture
Art Deco was an international decorative style that
lasted from 1919 to 1939 reflecting the move of
society toward modernism and a departure from
historical architectural styles in the impact of World
War I. Originally known as "le style moderne" or
"Jazz Moderne," the style was given its current
name in 1968. Art Deco originated in France and
gained international attention through a
government-sponsored exposition held in 1925 the
Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et
Industriels Modernes, where it made its debut.

Art Deco created inspiration from a wide range of early

twentieth-century art styles, including Cubism,
Constructivism, Futurism, Art Nouveau, Fauvism, and
ancient civilizations such as the Aztec and Egyptian.

International Exhibition of Modern Decorative and Industrial Arts (1925)

 History of Art Deco Architecture
In response to Art Deco's widespread popularity,
each city established its own distinct interpretation
of the style.The Art Deco style, which was adopted
by architects and designers all over the world,
continued from the "Roaring Twenties" to the Great
Depression of the early 1930s and the years
leading up to World War II. It decreased in
popularity in the late 1930s and early 1940s, when
it was seen as excessive and exaggerated to stay
during wartime and quickly fell out of popularity.

The first revival of interest in Art Deco occurred in the

1960s, corresponding with the movement's influence on
Pop Art, and then again in the 1980s, in connection with
growing interest in graphic design. The style was
featured in a number of jewelry and fashion
advertisements.
International Exhibition of Modern Decorative and Industrial Arts (1925)
When was Art Deco introduced in the Philippines?

- Art Deco architecture arrived in the Philippines

during the American colonial era (1898-1946),
corresponding with a period of significant urban
transformation. Manila underwent extensive
redevelopment, departing from the traditional Spanish
colonial architectural style, After the end of Spanish
colonial rule in 1898.

- Filipino students were sent abroad to study

architecture and design in the United States and
Europe, returning with influence from the Art Deco
movement they had encountered. Notable architects,
including Juan Arellano, Tomas Mapua, and Juan Nakpil.
The Times Theater was built in 1939, and it was designed by architect Luis Z. Araneta.
 Art Deco in the Philippines
In Philippine Art Deco architecture, there is a visible trend toward reductionism, particularly in how different cultures are depicted.
Architects frequently portrayed cultures in an "exotic" style, creating an atmosphere that felt detached from everyday Filipino life.
This created a sense of interest and curiosity. Art Deco's adaptability enabled the incorporation, transformation, and
reinterpretation of cultural references.

Art Deco was used to convey an impression of progress and competence in culture. The colonial era administration, informed of
the Philippines' image as an American colony, aimed to portray the country as a symbol of freedom in Asia through the principle of
"compassionate integration." Part of this agenda included portraying the Philippines as a modern and progressive nation under
colonial rule.

Metropolitan Theater – Art Deco Style a historic Philippine Art Deco building located in Plaza Lawton in Ermita,
 Art Deco in the Philippines
Architecture was used to project a modern image that was in line with the political objectives of the time.
It became a tool for communicating the concept of a forward-thinking society, reflecting the colonial
administration's goals.

Art Deco's adaptation in the Philippines was remarkable for seamlessly integrating international
influences with local aesthetics and materials. Filipino architects embraced Art Deco's streamlined design
and ornamentation, incorporating elements inspired by indigenous art, tropical landscapes, and local
craftsmanship.

Metropolitan Theater – Art Deco Style a historic Philippine Art Deco building located in Plaza Lawton in Ermita,
Characteristics of Art
Deco
Rectangular
Forms
Streamline that showcases minimalism
and focuses on clean lines and
abundance of spaces.
It first starts with palin blocks and boxy
shapes and then the rectangular forms
were arranged geometrically to meet the
style of the facade.

Manila Metropolitan Theater (Ermita,Manila) by Juan Arellano

Verticality
The corners of buildings were often
decorated with tower-like structures,
such as spires and parapets, that
would make a simple square building
seem more luxurious.

Many facades were created using

vertical lines that displays vertical
emphasis and drew the eye upward.

Municipal Government Building (IloIlo Province)

Industrial Imagery
and Symbolism

Corporate imagery
showcased the building’s
purpose in a sort of giant
advertisement or signage for
the clients.

Cine Astor (Manila City,1946)

 Ornate Geometric
Detailing
These motifs and ornamental detail were inlaid to a
building that has symmetrical repeating patterns.
Patterns such as:
– Zigzags
– Sunbursts
– Chevrons
– Sweeping curves (as opposed to stylized, scrolly
Art Nouveau curves)
– Egyptian motifs
– Floral motifs
– Bird motifs
– Pyramids
– Lightning Bolts

Saint Cecilia’s Hall of St. Scholastica Campus (Manila City)

Contrasting Colors

Bright and Opulent colors are

synonymous with the Art Deco period.
Buildings incorporated stark colors like
black and white or gold and silver to
create contrast. Varying shades of brick,
terra-cotta, or gleaming metal that add
brilliant hues to the exterior design of the
structure.

First United Building (Binondo,Manila)

 Materials

Materials such as stucco,

terracotta, and liberal use sleek-
looking materials such as
decorative glass, chrome, steel,
and aluminum.

Rizal Memorial Coliseum (Manila City). Upon renovation, the marbles are replaced with faux-
marbles and grill-works are replaced with floor-to-ceiling glass at the entrance.
Notable Examples of
Philippine Art Deco
Architecture
Far Eastern University (FEU) Campus (Ar. Pablo Antonio
Sr.)
The Times Theater (Luis Z. Araneta)
Rizal Memorial Coliseum (Ar.Juan Arellano)
The Manila Metropolitan Theatre (Ar. Juan M. de
Guzman Arellano)
The First United Building (Ar. Andres Luna de San
Pedro)
 IDES O’RACCA
The Ides O’Racca is one
of the heritage buildings
Materials such as stucco,
of the Philippines that is
a testament for
architectural excellence,
and historical
significance to the
country. This
dilapidated structure
residing in the streets of
San Nicolas, Manila is a
good example of
resiliency in
architecture.
By Olivia Wilson
Materials such as stucco,
Satellite
view of the
building

By Olivia Wilson
 HISTORY OF IDES O'RACCA BUILDING

Built in 1935, IDES O’Racca was designed by the German Architect Arthur
Julius Gabler-Gumbert, who also designed the China Bank building in
Binondo. The building was originally built to be a cold storage plant and
named by the late Dr. Isidro dee Santos. After a year of inauguration, it was
then turned into a confectionery after being sold to the Japanese O’Racca
confectionery company. The war wreaked its havoc on the building under
the hands of the Japanese who used it as a base, and then the Americans
who made it a barracks. After the second World War, its ownership was then
handed back to the Philippine Government and was then utilized as offices
for various government agencies.
 HISTORY OF IDES O'RACCA BUILDING

In 2014, the Ides O'Racca building was declared a Significant Cultural

Property by the National Museum of the Philippines, and as such, is
protected from demolition, under the National Cultural Heritage Act of
2009. However, the structure is at risk of meeting its end - a wrecking ball, as
the owners wanted to change the structure into a high-rise modern one to
"fit" into the "development" existing in the present San Nicolas and Divisoria
districts. It has then sprung different advocacies and organizations that are
united with only one goal, to Save IDES O'Racca.
 HISTORY OF IDES O'RACCA BUILDING

To this day, IDES O'Racca is situated within the busy street of the Divisoria
commercial center.It is now a mere hazard and a shelter for the community
in the area. Given the building's current condition, accidents are prone to
happen, especially in the streets that are within the building's vicinity.
Incidents like falling glass from broken windows are reported by the locals.
It is also observed to be occupied by people despite the obvious risks.
 Current situation of the
structure

The building is fitted

with support braces
and netting to lessen
the impact of
vibrations on its
structural integrity.
Fronting its ground
floor are stalls side
by side donning wide
umbrellas that sell
confectionery and
other plasticware.
Front view of IDES O’Racca Building
The building is
adjacent to
commercial
buildings such
as the Divisoria
Mall.
Below the
building is a
marketplace,
congested with
stalls and
vendors.
The view from
the top part of
the building
Collapsing
windows of the
building (left
picture) ;Right
side view of the
building (right
picture)
Interior of the building.
Then and now
Comparison
SWOT Analysis
STRENGTHS
 STRATEGIC
LOCATION

- The IDES O’Racca attracts a

diverse range of tenants,
consumers, investors, and other
commercial businesses due to its
strategic location, which is
proximate to commercial
establishments.
 TIMELESS
DESIGN

- The building’s main design is in Art

Deco style, which encapsulates
uniqueness among the adjacent
establishments and competes in
terms of design and style.
Furthermore, it adds attraction and
value to the building.
 HISTORICAL
VALUE

- Since the building became a

cultural heritage site, it has
added a sense of history and
prestige to the location,
attracting potential investors
and adding value to the site.
WEAKNESSES
 HERITAGE
VULNERABILITY

Since the location of the structure is

surrounded by commercial
establishments, it is at risk of being
converted into a high-rise building to
maximize the land value and meet current
commercial demands, which may cause
the historical context of heritage
structures to lose their value as cultural
assets.
FAÇADE
INTERFERENCE AND
HAZARD
- The existing electric cables
around the site hinder the true
beauty of the building and reduce
the functional role of the site.
Moreover, the electric cables may
pose a hazard to the building and
to consumers.
 ACCESSIBILITY
ISSUES

- Since the site is located in a

commercial area and surrounded
by commercial arrangements, the
space is limited and crowded,
especially the pathways being
close to roadways, which reduces
the safety and security of the area.
 ABSENCE OF
VEGETATION

- The IDES O’Racca building was

initially built without greenery or
vegetation nearby; this
contributes heat and causes a
lack of natural cooling for the site
and the building.
IRRELEVANCE TO THE
PRESENT TIME

-IDES O’Racca is considered a

historical site that may lack the
modern technological features
expected by businesses and
consumers in its surroundings since
it is located in Divisoria, known for its
busy commercial street markets.
OPPORTUNITIES
ADAPTIVE SPACE

- Designing flexible spaces

that adapt to the evolving
commercial needs can be
used as an advantage.
 TARGET MARKET

- Since the concept of art

deco is still in the trend,
making use of the modern
approach of the style can
attract the new generation.
 ENVIRONMENTAL
SOLUTIONS

- Considering its location with

limited land space, by implementing
sustainable initiatives, such as roof
gardens, it can be considered for
providing natural cooling and
energy efficiency.
 ECONOMIC
GROWTH

- Once renovated and restored,

IDES O’Racca will not only provide
functional and attractive spaces but
also contribute to the revitalization
and economic growth of the
surrounding community.
 GROWING
COMMUNITY

- Due to being proximate to other

resources, historical sites, and
commercial establishments, this
opens a potential future investment
and collaborations, resulting in
increasing and utilizing the purpose of
the building.
 TECHNOLOGICAL
ADVANCEMENTS

- The availability of new

technologies, building materials,
and innovations can enhance the
site’s capabilities and
competitiveness.
THREATS
ADJACENCY TO
NEARBY BUILDINGS

-Since the site is adjacent to

multiple establishments, it is
prone to certain accidents
like urban wildfires.
 PRESERVATION

- Preserving heritage structures like

IDES O’Racca can be a challenge due
to its restoration requirements and
limits, which may cause inappropriate
materials to be used and compromise
building performance and its natural
character.
 COMPETITIVE
PRESSURES

-Intense competition from

other businesses or projects
such as nearby malls in the
area can reduce the project’s
market share or profitability.
 COST

- Balancing the historical context of

IDES O’Racca with modern
commercial buildings can be more
expensive since some of the
building's structural features, like its
foundations, are in poor condition,
resulting in a high increase in cost.
 SUMMARY
Art Deco, a global movement influenced by visual arts, interior design, and
product design, arrived in the Philippines during the American colonial era
(1898-1946). The Philippine Art Deco architecture exhibited a reductionist
trend, often depicting cultures in an exotic style, creating an atmosphere
detached from everyday Filipino life. The colonial administration aimed to
project a modern image of the Philippines as a progressive nation under
colonial rule. Filipino architects embraced Art Deco's streamlined design and
ornamentation, incorporating elements from indigenous art, tropical
landscapes, and local craftsmanship.
The IDES O'Racca building, designed by German architect Arthur Julius Gabler-Gumbert, was
built in 1935 and was initially a cold storage plant. It was later turned into a confectionery and
later used as government offices. In 2014, it was declared a Significant Cultural Property by the
National Museum of the Philippines and protected from demolition under the National Cultural
Heritage Act of 2009. However, the building is at risk of demolition due to owners attempting to
convert it into a high-rise modern building.
 “To create
something that
lasts, the first
thing is to want
to create
something that
lasts forever”

-Émile-Jacques Ruhlmann
 “Architecture
should speak
of its time and
place, but
yearn for
timelessness.”

-Frank Gehry
 Prepared by:
Justine M. Gregorio
Christine Jhane C. Ramos
Airabell S. Francisco

Thank Faith M. Dela Cuz

Regino Eduard C. Tangol
Ralph Godwin T. Villanueva

You Paul Onil A. Valmadrid

Zamara Auri L. Cruz
Brian Deacon V. Sumalabe
Nikki Alessandra D. Vergel