SWOT ANALYSIS

Strengths:
1. Elevated Location: The higher elevation of the lot provides better views, natural ventilation,
and reduced risk of flooding, enhancing the overall appeal and safety of the civic center.
2. Wind Direction Advantage: Positioned in a safer zone compared to other parts of Tagaytay
due to prevailing wind direction, mitigating potential hazards associated with volcanic activity
from Taal Volcano.
3. Privacy: Away from the tourist spot, the location offers residents a sense of privacy,
especially when processing important and legal papers, enhancing confidentiality and security.
4. Accessibility: Despite being away from the tourist spot, the front part of the municipality
ensures easy access for local residents, businesses, and government offices.
5. Comprehensive Facilities: Offering a wide range of amenities such as a police station,
healthcare center, sports auditorium, library, city hall, fire protection bureau, convention center,
and labor and employment office caters to diverse community needs.
6. Focal Point Plaza: The plaza serves as a community gathering space, fostering social
interaction and civic engagement among residents.
7. Government Support: Hosting various government offices within the center enhances
coordination and efficiency in public service delivery.

Weaknesses:
1. Proximity to Taal Volcano: Despite the wind direction advantage, the lot's proximity to Taal
Volcano poses a potential risk of volcanic activity, requiring robust disaster preparedness
measures and infrastructure resilience.
2. Limited Tourist Traffic: Being away from the tourist spot may result in lower foot traffic and
visibility, potentially affecting revenue generation and utilization rates for certain facilities.
3. Operational Costs: Maintaining multiple facilities may pose a financial challenge, especially
if revenue streams are limited due to the lack of tourist traffic.
4. Perception: Some residents or stakeholders may perceive the location as less desirable
compared to areas closer to tourist attractions, affecting community engagement and support.
5. Infrastructure Development: Ensuring adequate infrastructure support remains crucial to
accommodate local residents and visitors, even if tourist traffic is not as significant.

Opportunities:
1. Community Engagement: The diverse range of facilities provides opportunities for
community engagement, cultural events, and educational programs, fostering a sense of
belonging and civic pride.
2. Economic Development: Stimulating economic growth through increased tourism, business
activities, and job creation benefits local businesses and residents.
3. Collaborative Partnerships: Partnering with local organizations, schools, and businesses
can expand services and programs offered, maximizing community impact and resource
utilization.
4. Quality of Life Improvements: Investing in amenities and services that enhance residents'
quality of life can contribute to community well-being and satisfaction.
Threats:
1. Political Instability: Changes in government leadership or policies may impact funding,
project continuity, and operational stability.
2. Natural Disasters: Tagaytay City's susceptibility to natural disasters such as earthquakes
and typhoons poses risks to infrastructure and safety.
3. Socio-Economic Challenges: Factors such as poverty, inequality, and unemployment may
affect the demand for services and the community's ability to fully utilize the facilities.
4. Technological Disruptions: Rapid advancements in technology may necessitate upgrades
or modifications to infrastructure and services, requiring continuous investment and adaptation.

DESIGN OBJECTIVES
● To design a civic center that has structural elements and emergency preparedness
measures to ensure operational continuity and occupant safety.
● To create an inclusive and barrier-free environment that accommodates people of all
ages and abilities, ensuring equal access and participation for residents and visitors.
● To provide inviting, and flexible spaces that encourage community gathering, interaction,
and collaboration, fostering social cohesion and civic pride among Tagaytay City
residents.
● To incorporate elements of local architecture, art and tradition into the design to
celebrate the cultural heritage and Identity of Tagaytay city while respecting diverse
perspectives and values.
● To incorporate sustainable architectural features and practices, such as passive design
strategies.

DESIGN CONSIDERATION

1. Sustainable Design: Incorporate sustainable building practices and materials to minimize

2. Disaster Resilience: Design the civic center with disaster resilience in mind, considering the
potential risks associated with earthquakes, typhoons, and volcanic activity. This may involve
structural reinforcement, evacuation routes, emergency shelters, and backup power systems.

3. Flexible Spaces: Create flexible and adaptable spaces within the civic center to
accommodate various activities, events, and functions. Use modular furniture, movable
partitions, and multi-purpose rooms to allow for easy reconfiguration based on changing needs
and preferences.

4. Privacy and Security: Ensure that sensitive areas such as the police station, healthcare
center, and legal offices have adequate privacy and security measures in place. This may
include controlled access points, CCTV surveillance, and secure document storage facilities.
5. Community Engagement: Design the civic center to promote community engagement and
interaction, with inviting public spaces, gathering areas, and recreational amenities. Incorporate
community feedback and participation into the design process to ensure that the facility meets
the needs and preferences of local residents.

6. Connectivity and Accessibility: Prioritize connectivity and accessibility within the civic
center, providing barrier-free access for people of all ages and abilities. This may involve
accessible parking, ramps, elevators, and wayfinding signage to facilitate navigation throughout
the facility.

7. Cultural Sensitivity: Respect and recognize the cultural heritage and diversity of Tagaytay
City by incorporating elements of local architecture, art, and tradition into the design. Consider
the use of indigenous materials, traditional motifs, and cultural symbols to create a sense of
place and identity.

9. Green Spaces: Incorporate green spaces, landscaping, and outdoor amenities to promote
health, well-being, and environmental sustainability. Design outdoor plazas, gardens, and
recreational areas that encourage outdoor activities, relaxation, and social interaction.

10. Iconic Architecture: Design the civic center with distinctive and iconic architectural features
that reflect the unique identity and aspirations of Tagaytay City. Consider landmark elements,
innovative forms, and cultural references that make the facility a symbol of civic pride and
community spirit.

DESIGN PHILOSOPHY
● “Nothing is art if it does not come from nature.” - Antoni Gaudi
● Architecture contributes to nature and to society. We try to bring nature back into the city,
protect the environment, and form a connection between humans and nature. - Vo Trong
Nghia