VERDANT ARCHITECTURE:

AIR POLLUTION - MITIGATING PARKING FACILITY

A Thesis/Research Study

Presented to the Faculty of the Architecture Program

School of Engineering and Architecture

Saint Louis University

Baguio City

In Partial Fulfillment of the

Requirements for the Degree of

Bachelor of Science in Architecture

BY

PINEDA, MARC BENNET D.

 ⅱ
INDORSEMENT

In partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN

ARCHITECTURE, this theses/research study entitled VERDANT ARCHITECTURE:
AIR - POLLUTION MITIGATING PARKING FACILITY has been prepared and
submitted by MARC BENNET D. PINEDA and is hereby endorsed and approved.

CHESTER P. KIAT-ONG, AR, MP

ADVISER

This is to certify that the project study mentioned above submitted by MARC
BENNET D. PINEDA is recommended for the final defense.

Thesis/Research Committee

RAFAEL G. DULAGAN, UAP DARYL LEE R. RAMIREZ, UAP

Chairman Secretary
 ⅲ

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

First and foremost, I would like to thank everyone involved in this research, which

would not have been possible without the guidance and assistance of those who have given

their support.

To my family, who have been understanding and supportive throughout my research.

Especially to my father, who has helped me obtain numerous information relevant to the

study.

To my thesis advisor and mentor, Ar. Chester P. Kiat-Ong and Ar. Erwin P. Gerardo,

who have given me continuous guidance throughout this study. I express my gratitude.

To my partner and close friend, Chelsea Lois S. Cruz, who has shared the load of this

study with me, someone who I would choose to work with again in a heartbeat.

Last but not least, to God, who has kept me sane and positive despite circumstances

that would make me feel otherwise. I thank Him for the blessings.
 ⅳ
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT iii

LIST OF TABLES vi

LIST OF FIGURES vii

ABSTRACT viii

CHAPTER
1. INTRODUCTION 1

1.1 Background of the Study 1

1.2 Statement of the Problem 9

1.4 Objectives of the Study 9

1.4 Conceptual Framework 9

1.3 Scope and Delimitations of the Study 11

1.3 Significance of the Study 11

2. METHODOLOGY 12

2.1 Methods of Inquiry 12

2.2 User Study 14

2.3 Data Gathering 15

3. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION 16

3.1 Introduction 16

3.2 Results 16

3.3 Additional discussion 16

 ⅴ

4. CONCLUSION

4.1 Summary of Findings 24

4.2 Conclusions 25

5. ARCHITECTURAL CONCEPTS & SOLUTIONS

5.1 Programming 25

5.2 Existing Factors and Considerations 29

5.3 Architectural Solutions 32

5.4 Architectural Concepts 34

REFERENCES 42

APPENDIX
A. SITE PHOTOS 37

B. QUESTIONNAIRE 38

C. INTERVIEW LETTER 39

D. LOT DOCUMENTS 40

CURRICULUM VITAE 46
 ⅵ
LIST OF TABLES

Table Page

1 14

2 16

3 23

4 35

5 35
 ⅶ
LIST OF FIGURES

Figure Page
1 10

2 17

3 18

4 18

5 19

6 19

7 19

8 20

9 20

10 21

11 21

12 24

13 25

14 26

15 29
 ⅷ
ABSTRACT

This research study introduces the concept of a pay-parking building with a rooftop garden

located in the La Trinidad pay - parking area as a possible solution to the on-going issues of

traffic congestion and air pollution in the project location, describing the proposal as “hitting

two birds with one stone”. To justify the proposal, the researcher gathered several data and

information that would help strengthen the necessity of the project. Through the methods of

qualitative and quantitative research, the researchers found positive effects that the project

would have in the area, further justified by concurring sentiments from the people who live

near the project location or have experience from visiting the area. The results show that,

apart from the positive reactions from people when presented with the proposal, a parking

building would help decrease the traffic congestion in its vicinity by eliminating on-street

parking and such, while the rooftop garden would serve as a “Carbon Sink”, mitigating the

effects of air pollution in the area, especially since the location is subject to continuous

presence of vehicles.

Keywords: Rooftop Garden, Air pollution, Carbon Sink, Pay-Parking

 1
CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION

The current pay-parking facility in the La Trinidad pay - parking area is to be redeveloped

into a multi-level parking structure with a rooftop garden, aiming to address two issues with

the said project. A parking building to tackle the issue of traffic while the rooftop garden

addresses the issue of air pollution in the project location.

1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

Two of the numerous detrimental problems that are commonly faced within many towns and

cities around the world are traffic and air pollution, and the town of La Trinidad, Benguet is

no exception to this. With the Public Market parking area as the chosen location for the

proposal, the researchers decided to conduct this study with the intention of addressing both

issues at the same time.

Air pollution has had a significant negative impact on its environment since time

immemorial, and it continues to do so at present. As a result, air pollution is considered as the

4th leading cause of death around the world, with around 6.4 million victims worldwide

(WHO, 2016), and in response to this crisis, experts have emphasized the need to create more

urban green spaces because of their significant impact in mitigating the effects of air

pollution. Their effects include the mitigating the urban heat island phenomenon because of

the shade they provide, as well as their ability to cleanse the air of harmful pollutants.

On the other hand, the issue regarding traffic is experienced throughout towns and

cities all around the world. One of the several causes is on-site parking, which decreases the

size of pathways, ultimately leading to congestion in the area. A multi-level parking building

addresses this issue by providing parking spaces for these vehicles, thereby lessening, or even

preventing on-site parking (Mondal & Debasish, 2016). The same solutions can be utilized

for the same issues being faced in the area of the Public Market in the town of La Trinidad,

Benguet, as the area in question is located within the CBD or central business district of the

town.
 2
Justification for the study comes from the issues of traffic and air pollution that is

commonly experienced worldwide. Since the project area is located in the central business

district area of the town of La Trinidad, the area experiences its own fair share of traffic and

air pollution problems. These facts, along with a written statement in the town’s CLUP, serve

as the basis for the project proposal of a green pay-parking building.

1.1.1 REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

The importance-as well as the benefits- of providing or preserving areas for urban

gardens plays an important role in mitigating the existing pollution that is being experienced

especially in densely populated areas . As the name states, these are green spaces found in the

midst of towns and cities. Such is the case of La Trinidad’s business area. The information to

be discussed shall be in relation to the current situation of the town, aiming to create a

connection between the town and the need for an urban garden, specifically in the public

market pay-parking area. Lastly, another thing to note about the lot is that it is an economic

enterprise, a commercial lot owned by the local municipality of La Trinidad as declared by an

ordinance. This is the very reason that the lot is currently being utilized as a pay-parking area.

In line with the ordinance, any structure to be built in the area must be income-generating. A

building that the municipality can profit from. Hence, the research aims to improve instead

the current pay-parking by turning it into a building. This is also in adherence to a proposal

from the Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP) of the municipality of La Trinidad which

will be tackled later.

The combination of the rapid development of urban areas and with the growing

population poses a challenge in traffic. Traffic congestion has been a problem to many urban

areas with dense cities and limited spaces. Aside from Baguio City, the issue of traffic

congestion has started to affect La Trinidad, Benguet as it continues to draw interest from

tourists. Several experts proposed that the development of multi-level parking buildings can

help mitigate the existing traffic around the city. Due to the unavailability and inadequate
 3
parking spaces for the car owners, thus this can result in open spaces being vacant by vehicles

even at the shoulder of roads in parts of the city.

The paper of Biswas, Subhadip & Chandra, Satish & Ghosh, Indrajit. (2017) contains

a review of the negative and positive effect of on-street parking. Evidence through researches

shows that "on-street parking triggers accidents", Some researchers like Dumbaugh E, Gattis

JL (2005) and Peprah C, Oduro CY, Ocloo KA (2014) believed that it depends on the

pedestrians and road user’s culture on how they approach safety that it is possible that

off-street parking can be an environment that is safe for them. This study points out two

reasons on how road capacities are reduced due to on-street parking. First is that it lessens the

amount of space supposedly for on-going vehicles to use, resulting in slow speed of traffic.

Secondly, the frequent parking and unparking maneuvers and also the loading and unloading

of vehicles which creates a complex situation that results in major congestion in traffic

especially in a busy road.

Moreover, Paul A. Barter (2013) concluded that due to the off-street parking policy in

14 immense metropolitan areas in East, Southeast and South of Asia, the authors come up

with an international comparative perspective on non-residential. Some of these regions are

faced with challenges such as parking, and it has become a global and critical problem. Thus,

they employ a new compartmentalization which sorts the method of parking policy into

‘conventional’, ‘parking management’ and ‘market-oriented’ categorization. The cities that

have been studied shows that various distinguished parking policies adjustments are

identified. Some of the qualities of Asian cities for instance having a low rate of car

ownership, potentially expected to have off-street parking policies. Then again most of these

policies are more common and encouage automobile dependence.

In another study Zhen (Sean) Qian , Feng (Evan) Xiao, H.M. Zhang (2012) investigated how

to lessen traffic congestion and social impact cost by designing a parking fee and parking

supply. To include the commuter’s option in choosing two parking areas they extended the
 4
Viceroy’s morning commute model. They derived first the different capacities in parking with

their travel patterns, accessibility and parking fees in the destination; then they each analyzed

the effect of each of the factors on the performance network and travel profile with the use of

sensitivity analysis. The findings are: Firstly, parking lots that have sizable centers are not

always preferable; Second, commuters prefer to park near their destination so by setting up

the parking fee and its capacity; and third is to reduce the social cost by having a minimum

access time that can diminish social costs..

Meanwhile, Glazer, A., & Niskanen, E. (1992) assumed that if the usage of the price

is high, then the charged parking fee can improve the profit, but it doesn’t apply for a parking

fee per unit. It is obvious that if the price of parking increases, it convinces the users to park

for a short period, thus this allows for the parking building to accommodate more users every

day and therefore it can both lessen the traffic.

As a solution to the issue of traffic congestion, Mondal, Debasish (2016) came to a

conclusion that because of inadequate availability of planned parking spaces, on-street

parking became a common practice in almost all cities. The unprecedented volume of

vehicles and unplanned road infrastructures had made that parking provision play an

important role in planning. As the demand for horizontal space increases in a dense urban

area resulting in a major traffic congestion especially in a commercial business district or

business areas, a use of multiple-storey car park which uses a vertical development that can

accomodate a large number of users or vehicles could serve as a solution of rather than

utilizing horizontal space constraint and more of regulating traffic flow.

Other than the previously mentioned problems caused by traffic congestion, air

pollution is also one of the more prominent ones, as it poses a danger to human health (Zhang

& Batterman, 2013). Air pollution is the release of harmful substances and/or gasses into the

atmosphere, and ultimately contribute to the overall effects of global warming. The most

common emissions are the following:

 5
- Sulphur Dioxide and Nitrous Oxides, caused by burning of fossil fuels

- Ozone pollution caused by gasses emitted from cars, chemical or power plants

- Carbon Monoxide caused by industrial factories and car fumes

According to The World Bank, the deadliest form of pollution and 4th leading cause of

premature deaths in the world is air pollution, causing hundreds of billions of dollars lost in

labor income. For example, a WHO data reported an estimated 6.5 million casualties related

to air pollution in 2012. Another report from the World Health Organization (WHO) states

that 92% of the world’s inhabitants reside in parts where the air pollution exceeds the safe

limit, and that 94% of those casualties occur in low and middle – income locations

Another result of condensed human activities in a certain location, usually in the

urban or metropolitan area, is the significant rise of temperature in said location in

comparison to its surrounding rural areas. This phenomenon is also called the Heat Island

Effect. Several factors that contribute to this phenomenon are the materials used for the urban

area, human activities like vehicle movement, and even the level of proximity of buildings

with each other (EPA, 2020) Studies have stated that daytime temperatures in urban areas

have 1–7°F higher than that of outer areas, while nighttime temperatures can go 2–5°F

higher. Research also states that the Heat Island Effect will get stronger as more buildings are

constructed in the future (EPA, 2020). The reason for these increases in temperatures is

because roads,pathways, and buildings trap the heat, preventing it from rising into the air.

This heat trapped can be dangerous to the environment, for it can be the reason for higher

consumption of energy with the use of air conditioning and other cooling devices. Not only

that, but according to the American Forests, a non-profit conservation organization based in

the US, the Urban Heat Island effect has negative impacts on human health as well, like

increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses (e.g. heat stroke, heat stress) especially for the

elderly, children, people with underlying respiratory conditions, and outdoor workers. Lastly,
 6
the high temperatures in the area also intensifies the air pollution by creating smog, which

then would trigger asthma, the most common chronic disease among children.

Addressing the issue of air pollution, Grant (2020) states that urban green areas help

mitigate the effects of air pollution through two ways: shade and moisture. Green spaces like

large trees and rooftop gardens provide shade from the sunlight, which then reduces the

temperatures on the city, and in turn decreases the overall temperature of the planet. Plants

also go through a process ;called transpiration, wherein moisture is carried to the underside of

the leaves. This moisture is then released into the atmosphere then cooling it. This also helps

mitigate the effects of the Urban Heat Island by reducing warm temperatures, preventing dry

and humid air for the people in the area. Urban gardens can also be of great help to improving

human health. Plants absorb pollutants contributing to air pollution, then they release oxygen

which helps counter the effects of pollution in its surroundings. In general, green spaces

provide better quality of air for people by having plants in our surroundings. And lastly, by

absorbing the radiation of the sun through their photosynthesis, plants also help prevent eye

damage and over-exposure to the rays of the sun which can also cause dehydration.

Many cities have begun working towards creating more green spaces due to the

number of benefits it brings (Espora, 2019), some of which are the following:

1. Improvement of environmental conditions in cities

- Since a few of the problems that cities face are air pollution, urban heat, and

temperature rises during winter and summer, incorporating urban biodiversity is the

solution they have come up with, as they have numerous significant positive effects

on the environment of the cities (e.g. reduces greenhouse gasses, decreases urban

temperatures, etc).

2. Promotes socialization

- Green spaces serve as socializing areas for people, as well as positively affect the

behaviour among its residents.

 7
3. Contribute to environmental laws and regulations

- With city administrations seeing the need to incorporate green spaces into their

cities, the European Union has set initiatives like the Green Infrastructure- Enhancing

Europe’s Natural Capital, whose goal is to promote the design and creation of more

green/natural areas for sustainability. In relation to this, the Urban Green Index allows

the gauges the amount of green spaces in an area, and according to the World Health

Organization, between 10 to 15 sq.m per inhabitant to ensure a healthy eco-urban

area.

4. Promote human well-being

- According to the World Health Organization, urban green spaces are essential to

both the physical and emotional well-being of humans, as these spaces encourage

getting away from the pollution of the city even for a while, through daily walks in

the park, etc.

5. More attractive cities

- There are several psychological benefits to a greener city. For example, green

features on a building not only helps the already existing building and its

surroundings, but buildings with their own green spaces help improve the overall

aesthetic of the city.

In an effort to tackle both problems of traffic congestion and air pollution, concepts

such as gardens on the rooftop of buildings have been recommended. Liu (2002) speaks of

rooftop gardens and the benefits they bring. Aside from the positive effects they have on

human health and the environment, they also contribute to energy efficiency by reducing the

need for space conditioning, which then leads back to being a positive impact on the

environment as this means the reduction of greenhouse gases. Rooftop gardens can also help

in improving stormwater management, as the garden will hold the rainwater temporarily, and

the plants can filter out pollutants in the accumulated rainwater. It then will release the
 8
cleaner rainwater back into the atmosphere. The garden can delay the flow into the sewage

system, essentially reducing the frequency of overflow of sewage water.

The first-known study of the impact of green roofs on air quality in an urban canyon

found that cool air produced from the green roof flows into the canyon and improves air flow

and air quality near the road. The study found that air cooling from green roofs causes the air

quality near the highways to improve by enhancing pollutant dispersion when compared with

areas with no cooling factors. (Baik et al., 2012).

Lastly, density of vegetation is considered the primary factor associated with the

effectiveness of an urban green space to its vicinity (Zupancic, Westmacott & Bulthuis,

2015). Denser areas of vegetation showed greater mitigation of air pollution, also taking into

consideration the sizes of the plant’s leaves.

These can be relevant to the case of the Public Market in km.5 La Trinidad, Benguet,

which is also the location of the project proposal, and a few other neighbouring areas in the

central business district area. According to the Comprehensive Development Plan of La

Trinidad, studies conducted show that between the years of 2013 and 2017, the air quality in

the aforementioned areas, despite varying from generally fair to good conditions, have

remained under the 230 µg/Ncm rating, which is the Total Suspended Particle (TSP)

standard. Nonetheless, the LGUs still push for ways to improve the air quality of the area, as

air pollution will continue to thrive in the area due to human-related causes. One such cause

is the frequent traffic congestion adjacent to the area, as it is near the intersection of km. 5

and the road leading to Pico. In relation to this, the LGUs have stated in their CLUP the need

for a parking facility to help in mitigating the effects of traffic. And in accordance with an

ordinance from the Municipality of La Trinidad declaring that area near the public market as

an economic lot, a parking facility that would be constructed in the location would have to be

a pay-parking facility.
 9
1.2 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

Traffic and air pollution remains a problem in various cities and towns over the

world, and the area around La Trinidad’s Public Market is no exception, with it being

located in the middle of the town’s central business district. Thus, the problems at

hand are:

1) The traffic congestion in the project location victinity.

2) The air pollution in the area and its negative impact on its surroundings.

1.3 OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY

The following are the objectives of the study:

● To determine the volume and vehicle users of the La trinidad that can be

accommodated in the proposed parking building.

● To measure the amount of air pollutants that can be mitigated through the urban green

space and make use of corresponding plants to integrate into the building.

1.4 CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK

The figure below shows the proposal of the researchers and the process of its

discussion. The first section pertains to the problems and constraints that are to be

tackled in the study. The second section showcases the separate proposed solutions to

each issue. Finally, the third section states the combination of the solutions for both

problems into one concept.

 10

Figure 1. Conceptual Framework

 11
1.5 SCOPE AND LIMITATIONS

Included in the scope of the study are the impact of parking buildings/facilities to the

traffic in the area around it, while tackling the benefits of urban green spaces to the air in its

surrounding environment on the other hand. It also includes research regarding the possible

positive effects where the two solutions combined into one structure, metaphorically

speaking, to “hit two birds with one stone”. Specifically speaking, the study contains research

pertaining to the possible advantageous effects of a green pay-parking building and

application thereof in the specified project location.

Limitations of the study is characterized by the difficulty in gathering initial data,

such as lack of several, more specific data with which the researchers could also work with,

as well as restrained movement outside due to the ongoing pandemic, which also hinders data

gathering.

1.6 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

The importance of this study lies in the project’s impact overall in its immediate

surroundings, since the proposal aims to address the issues of traffic and air pollution in the

vicinity of the project location. The study’s significance, with support from the gathered

related literature, would be conveyed by the project’s purpose of providing more parking slots

to help alleviate traffic congestion, and making use of a rooftop green space to help mitigate

the impact of polluted air in the area. Thus, the study’s results would help substantiate the

efficiency of numerous findings regarding urban green spaces and pay-parking buildings that

this study was based on, all the while serving as a solution to both problems of the area, those

being traffic and air pollution.

 12
CHAPTER 2

METHODOLOGY

The researchers will employ both qualitative and quantitative methods of research as

it would make use of numerical and descriptive data. Qualitative research ideally is to

understand the reason for the data obtained by the researchers through first-hand

observations, interviews, questionnaires, participant observations and recordings. The

specific characteristics of a quantitative method of the study is it seeks to discuss the facts,

establish relationships between variables, and explain the reasons for this relationship. The

data is presented in numerical form. It emphasizes the statistical data or numerical analysis of

data through surveys, polls, tests and questionnaires.

In this study, all the cited characteristics of quantitative and qualitative methods were

employed in the research for the proposed Multilevel Pay-Parking Building. The

mixed-method Convergent Design compares data collected from qualitative and quantitative

data sources. A convergent parallel design refers to the researcher simultaneously conducting

the quantitative and qualitative elements in the same phase during the research process,

weighing both methods equally, independently analyzing the two datas, and ultimately

interpreting the results together (Creswell & Pablo-Clark, 2011). The research process can be

symbolized as qualitative and quantitative (QUAL+QUAN; Morse, 1991).

2.1 METHODS OF INQUIRY

The researchers will gather information with regards to the number of parking slots, as well

as the usual users of the slots. For the latter, the statistics of the currently functioning

pay-parking can serve as a basis for said data, as the present occupants of the present

pay-parking function within the lot may very well represent the users of a possible

pay-parking building that would be constructed. Furthermore, the necessity of a construction

of a pay-parking building has been justified as it has been stated in the Comprehensive Land

Use Plan or CLUP of the municipality that there is a need for the said building.
 13
It has been stated not just in the CLUP of La Trinidad, but by DENR itself, that

improvement and maintenance of air quality is of importance. Along with this, they have also

stated that air monitoring is a top priority. With regards to this issue, the researchers have

come up with three objectives to be addressed:

1. Determine the types of pollution in the area

2. Gauge the rate of their impact in the surroundings

3. Identify suitable plants to satisfy goal of air purification

The researchers will determine the types of pollutants in the immediate vicinity of the

project location by basis of all plausible sources of pollution from within the area, as well as

obtaining data from the Benguet branch of the EMB or the Environmental Management

Bureau.

The researchers will also obtain statistical data regarding the impact of the pollution

in the project location. In order to to do this, the researchers will determine the amount of PM

or Particulate Matter in the area (standard would be below 230 µg/Ncm in accordance with

the Philippine standard TSP) by means of consultation from the DENR or Department of

Environment and Natural Resources EBM branch of Benguet and the data they possess from

their Continuous Emission Monitoring System. Findings will help determine the rate of

pollution in the project area. Thus , the researchers will also determine the endemic plants

that could serve the purpose of air purification and can be planted outdoors as well.

Below is the table containing the initial set of the National Ambient Air Quality

Guidelines Values provided by the World Health Organization (WHO). They are the

necessary standards to adhere to.

 14

Table 1. Air Quality Guidelines

Lastly, information regarding what plants would be used and their suitability

for the project would be gathered from sources that are knowledgeable in this field.

2.2 USER STUDY

The participants of the study are the people that will be available at the data

gathering. The sample of the said participants of the study is purposely selected

according to their availability within the period of the data gathering. Therefore, the

clients who frequently use the lot will be the priority of the data collection, referring

to both the people who would use the pay-parking slots and those who would be

frequenting the urban green space.

In determining the sample size, we are going to make use of the Slovin

Formula shown below, this allows the researchers to achieve a sample of the

population with a desired mark of accuracy according to (Stephanie, 2013).

 15
Equation 1: Slovin Formula

𝑛 = 𝑁 / 1 + 𝑁𝑒 2

Where: n0= sample size

N = is the size of the population

e = desired level of precision, 5 % or 0.05 (i.e. the margin of error)

1 = is the constant value

q = 1 – p, (1-0.50). q=0.50

Where n0 is the sample size, N is the size of the population, 1 is the constant value, e is the

desired level of precision. To use the formula, first figure out what you want your error of

tolerance to be. For example,going with the common preference of researchers which is a

confidence level of 95 percent (giving a margin error of 0.05). Thus, with a confidence level

of 95 percent, it means that there is a high chance in 100 that the sample results would show

the true condition of the population on the specified range of precision, with chances that

0.05 in 100 that it doesn’t.

2.3 DATA GATHERING TOOLS

The primary data would be taken from various sources from the internet that would be

in line with/in support of the concept of the proposal to help establish its necessity.

Furthermore, data will also be collected from constructed interviews or

questionnaires, which would be provided to the respondents. The structured interviews

consist of a series of similar questions that were organized and arranged before the interview;

thus the results in a thorough and organized manner of data collection. The questions for the
 16
constructed interviews are composed of open-ended questions. This allows the respondents to

interpret the questions without limiting their response.

CHAPTER 3

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

3.1 INTRODUCTION

The researchers employed the following methods:

A. Qualitative - The researchers gathered several sources from the internet, as well as

conducted interviews with experts with regards to the project.

B. Quantitative - The researchers made use of online survey questionnaires sent out to

people who either live or have experience in the project location.

3.2 RESULTS

3.2.1 INFORMATION FROM PRIMARY SOURCES

PARKING FACILITIES

One thing common the researchers have noticed from the various sources they have

gathered information from, is that parking buildings reduce the occurrences of

on-street parking, which is one of the causes of traffic in many cities. And in the case

of the project location being adjacent to a public market, construction of a parking

building would provide convenience for its customers.

Table 2. Annual income of existing pay-parking facility in project site (Municipal

Treasury Office)
 17
Looking at the figures above, assuming the building would, at the very least,

add another 50 parking slots, then it is safe to say that the projected amount above

would be doubled.

ROOFTOP GARDENS/ “URBAN GREEN SPACES”

According to several sources, the provision of green spaces in urban areas would

serve as a solution to air pollution. The Urban Espora (2019) states that the creation of

an urban biodiversity layer would be the answer to the problem of air pollution, not to

mention against urban heat and extreme temperatures in the summer and winter as

well. This is due to the fact that these urban green spaces serve as “carbon sinks”

(Espora, 2019 and Zhu &Reed, 2012), able to perform carbon sequestration (natural

or artificial process by which carbon dioxide is removed from the air) in their

respective locations. Carbon sequestration happens when plants absorb carbon dioxide

from the air, and since organic matter could contain about 58% carbon (Meadows,

2000), integrating organic matter in large amounts (like a garden) could mean

significant amounts of carbon being absorbed. Also, pollution emitted by around 15

cars can be eliminated by 100 square meters of green roof, as the particles emitted by

said vehicles would be absorbed into the leaves of the plants ( Espora, 2019).

3.2.2 SURVEY RESULTS

Figure 2. Survey results (1)

 18
The data from the graph above shows that the usual users of the current pay-parking

facility own an SUV.

Figure 3. Survey results (2)

Figure 4. Survey results (3)

 19

Figure 5. Survey results (4)

Figure 6. Survey results (5)

Figure 7. Survey results (6)

 20
As seen in the table above, apart from the information gathered from online sources,

people who live or have experience in the area agree that the construction of a parking

building would help reduce illegal parking (usually on-street) which causes traffic in the area.

Apart from that, other possible advantages would be convenience for customers of the Public

Market and other shops adjacent to the lot. Lastly, it would increase the current sales of the

existing pay-parking area as the new parking building would have more slots.

Figure 8. Survey results (7)

Figure 9. Survey results (8)

The table above shows the amenities/functions that possible users would like to see integrated
into the building should it be constructed.
 21

Figure 10. Survey results (9)

Figure 11. Survey results (10)

As seen in the graph above, to further support the information from our primary sources, we

asked people whether a rooftop garden would be a good idea, and the proposal gained mostly

favorable responses.
 22
3.2.3 INTERVIEW ACTIVITY

3.2.3.1 DENR-EMB OFFICE : MS. WILHELMA LANGUINILLA

On February 3, 2021, the researchers went to the Department of Environment

and Natural Resources - Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB) to

conduct an interview regarding the measuring of air pollution in the air, specifically

PM10 and PM2.5. We were directed to the Environmental Management Bureau of the

DENR as we were told that they were the authority when it came to matters involving

air quality. There, we interviewed Ms. Wilhelma.According to Ma’am Wilma,s, the

agency is planning to set-up stations this year to monitor the area near the capitol area.

With regards to the process they use, they have machines called BGPQ100, and they

use this to measure the Particulate Matter or PM 2.5 and PM 10 in areas, and also the

harmful gasses like the sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide. The researchers also asked

about the positive impacts of a rooftop garden,, and she agreed with its advantage,

stating that it was one of their projects as well, mentioning a few plants like the

bougainvillea. She also stated her suggestion that La Trinidad must have an ordinance

stating the integration of rooftop gardens in buildings, similar to the ordinance that

Baguio City has.

*PM10/PM2.5 - refers to the harmful particles suspended in the air that can be

inhaled. Generally produced by construction sites, smoke from vehicles or even

unpaved roads (refer to table 1 for more details).

3.2.3.2 HORTI-BSU : MR. DARWIN BASQUIAL, Director of Horti BSU

On March 16, 2021, the researchers asked to interview officials from the

Horticulture Research and Training Institute from Benguet State University (HORTI

BSU). There we interviewed the director, Mr. Darwin Basquial, and asked him

questions mainly regarding what plants could be used for the project, and the overall

impact of an urban garden. According to him, almost any ornamental plants, even

grass, can be used for Phytoremediation. Phytoremediation refers to the cleansing of

 23
the soil, air, and water that are contaminated by hazardous elements by the use of

plants. According to them, most plants are capable of absorbing harmful elements like

lead from pollution-producing areas such as highways, which the project location is

close to. When asked about the plants, he stated several examples, like the San

Francisco plant, ferns, Bromelia,spider plant,etc. He also mentions the importance of

regular maintenance for the plants to keep them healthy.

Table 3. Other ornamental plants and the pollutants they filter

Benzene - highly flammable matter, responsible for the smell around gas stations.

Xylene - highly flammable, small quantities can be found in gasoline and solvent

Formaldehyde - mainly used in creating coating, “human carcinogen”

Nitrogen Oxide - greenhouse gas

When asked about the kind of watering system they use for their own gardens, he

suggests the drip water system. Drip, or micro-irrigation, system uses plastic pipes to

carry water under low pressure to sprinkle to plants. Water is applied much more

slowly than with sprinkler irrigation. Drip irrigation exceeds 90 percent efficiency

whereas sprinkler systems are 50% to 70% efficient. (Sarkar, 2018)

 24

Figure 12. Drip Irrigation system

3.3 ADDITIONAL DISCUSSION

A significant portion of the qualitative research focused on the study of green spaces and

their advantages in an urban setting, while the quantitative research conducted leaned more

towards the justification of a parking building in the project location.

CHAPTER 4

CONCLUSION

4.1 SUMMARY OF FINDINGS

4.1.1 PARKING FACILITY

As both expressed by studies from around the world, and sentiments from the

locals, the construction of a parking facility would directly help in alleviating traffic

in the area as it significantly reduces on-street parking, even more so since more slots

would be added for use this time. Not only that, but the construction of the facility

would more or less double the income that it generates for the municipality.

4.1.2 ROOFTOP GARDEN

To summarize, the reports state that density of vegetation in the area is the

primary characteristic to focus on regarding urban gardens, as they serve as carbon

 25
sinks by way of carbon sequestration, as well as absorb other harmful particulate

matter in the air.

4.2 CONCLUSION

The construction of the parking facility is justified both by research data and the

expression of need from the people, as they state the same solution that a parking facility

would provide to traffic issues. As for the integration of the rooftop garden, experts, both

local and abroad, all have stated the impact of even a small patch of greenery to its

surrounding air quality. Considering the creation of an urban green space would always be a

welcome idea, especially in areas quite densely populated with vehicles and machines and the

like. Not only that, but gardens, specifically the ornamental type, also help with the

beautification of an area, as well as positive impacts on human health.

CHAPTER 5

ARCHITECTURAL CONCEPTS AND SOLUTIONS

5.1 PROGRAMMING

5.1.1 FORMS

5.1.1.1 Site

Figure 13. Satellite map via Google Earth

The project venue is located at the pay-parking lot in the Public Market

grounds in km. 5, La Trinidad, Benguet. The total area is a 12,847 sq.m, with
 26
reserved area for redevelopment (project site) having an area of 3,910.49 sq.m.

It is a relatively flat lot situated in the town’s central business district (CBD),

adjacent to the intersection of roads leading to Pico (Pico-Lamtang road, 7m

wide) and km. 4(Baguio-Bontoc road, 15 m wide), as well as the Benguet

State University.

5.1.1.2 Site Vegetation

Vegetation in the project location is evidently scarce, with only a few

trees lining the edges of the project site.

5.1.1.3 Existing Site Conditions

The site is adjacent to the new and old public market buildings, and in

those buildings are several stalls. On the lower corner of the lot is a currently

active jeepney trunkline that carries passengers to and from Wangal, Benguet.

Lastly, close enough to the project site is the Trading Post area, as well as the

Municipal Hall.

5.1.1.4 Accessibility and Traffic Pattern

Figure 14. Accessibility

By vehicle, the only entrance to the pay-parking area which is in the project

site is through the smaller road leading to the trading post. The road is accessible from
 27
the Pico-Lamtang road, just a few meters away from the intersection. By foot, on the

other hand, the site is accessible through the Pico-Lamtang road, as well as from the

national highway and through the road leading from the Trading Post.

5.1.1.5 Quality

The lot is suitable for a multi-level parking building for the following reasons:

- The lot is relatively lot and is stable ground

- Surrounded by commercial establishments, which means the parking

building will definitely be occupied the whole time.

5.1.2 FUNCTION

5.1.2.1 People

-Business owners: One of the would-be regular users of the building,

as the location is close to several stalls and business establishments, apart from

the ones already in the Public Market.

-Market customers: another set of people that would be using the

parking quite frequently, though not as long in duration as the business

owners. They would use the parking lot either to shop in the establishments, or

simply visit the rooftop garden.

-Tourists: These people contribute greatly to promoting a town’s

products, locations, etc. Hence, the rooftop garden would be one of their

destinations, and ultimately making them a potential customer to the

surrounding businesses.

5.1.2.2 Purposes/Activities

While the purpose of the parking building is quite self-explanatory, the

rooftop garden would have various possible uses:

 28
1. Social gathering point: one benefit of urban gardens like this that serves as

parks is that it indirectly promotes social interaction, mainly because of the

atmosphere it exudes.

2. Flexible spaces: several spaces in the rooftop garden are available for

accommodating temporary stalls for special occasions, as it is spacious enough

to do so, and simply because the area would help attract customers.

3. Improvement of air quality in the area: as pointed out throughout this study,

one of its main purposes is to help improve the air quality of its surroundings

as well as maintain that status.

5.1.3 ECONOMY

5.1.3.1 Operation Costs

1. Public utilities ( water,electricity,etc.)

2. Employee wages

3. Building Maintenance

4. Fertilizers for plants, as well replacements

5.1.3.2 Long Term Costs

This would involve costs related to building maintenance in general, as well as

some aspects of the garden that require maintenance as well.

5.1.4 TIME

5.1.4.1 Past

The original function of the project lot was not a pay-parking facility, but the

former location of the old public market building. In 1998, a one-storey

structure located in the middle of the site was constructed and finished around

2002. The new public market building was still being constructed at the time.

The building was demolished in 2004.

 29

Figure 15. Google earth satellite photo from 2004 showing top-view of old market building

5.1.4.2 Present

At present, the project site is being used as a pay-parking facility owned by the

municipality. The Public Market has been relocated to the two buildings

adjacent to the lot.

5.1.4.3 Future

Stated in the municipality’s Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP), the

municipal hall aims to establish a pay-parking facility in the project site

sometime in the future.

5.2 EXISTING FACTORS AND CONSIDERATIONS

5.2.1 Site Analysis

1. THE SITE: The site is relatively flat and is cemented all throughout. No

occurrences of erosion, but flooding seldom occurs depending on the intensity

of the storm.

2. WATER: The closest body of water in proximity to the site is the Balili

River, a short distance from the project site.

 30
3. CLIMATE: According to the ClimateData.org, the climate of La Trinidad,

Benguet, the town in which the site is located, is classified as tropical, with

significant rainfall for most of the year. The average annual temperature is

21.1 °C. In a year, the average rainfall is 3463 mm | 136.3 inch.

4. ROAD AND VEHICLE DIRECTION: The site is accessible from 3

sources. They are the Lamtang-Pico road, the Baguio-Bontoc national

highway, and the trading post road found next to the site. Although by vehicle,

the only entrance allowed is from the Pico-Lamtang road.

5. NOISE: Since the site is surrounded by roads from almost every side as

well as business establishments, the main source of noise would be coming

from vehicles and people.

6. ODOR: Adjacent to the site is a gas station, though it is relatively far from

the location. Other sources would be from the nearby meat shops and

vegetable stalls.

7. VISUAL ASSESSMENT: The common sightings in the location would be

cars and people, as it is a parking area surrounded by highways and business

establishments. Although, one unpleasant scene the researchers noticed was

the tangled electrical lines in one part of the site. Apart from that, the sight of

the area is generally and relatively pleasant, considering the fact that it is

surrounded by busy roads. This can be another reason for building a rooftop

garden, so as to help improve the aesthetic of the area.

8. SECURITY: Other than the ticket sellers booth for management, there is an

existing security outpost near the only vegetation present in the site, right next

to a public bathroom.
 31
5.2.2 BUILDING CODE

SECTION 101. TITLE

This Decree shall be known as the “National Building Code of the

Philippines” and shall thereafter be referred to as the “Code”.

SECTION 102. DECLARATION OF POLICY

It is hereby declared to be the policy of the State to safeguard life, health,

property, and public welfare, consistent with the principles of sound

environmental management and control; and to this end, make it the purpose

of this Code to provide for all buildings and structures, a framework of

minimum standards and requirements to regulate and control their location,

site, design quality of materials, construction, use, occupancy, and

maintenance.

PD 1185: FIRE CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES

Section 1. Title. This Decree and the Rules and Regulations for its

implementation shall be known as the “Fire Code of the

Philippines” and shall thereafter be referred to as the “Fire Code”. Section 2.

Declaration of Policies. The following are declared policies of the State:

(a) The government, with the cooperation of the private sector, shall develop

and promulgate sets of standards and regulations taking into consideration the

latest development in fire technology suitable to Philippine conditions;

(b) Fire prevention and fire safety shall be given equal, if not

greater emphasis as the suppression or extinguishment of fires. Fire

prevention education shall be undertaken continuously involving all

sectors of the community;

(c) The Fire Service of the Integrated National Police shall

endeavor to respond to all fires before they reach critical and

 32
conflagration stages. Towards this end, the organization,

administration, and operation of the Fire Service shall be improved

and developed, its personnel and equipment augmented and

effective fire alarm systems set up; and

(d) The Fire Service shall be professionalized. For this purpose,

educational institutions shall endeavor to include in their curricula,

courses on fire technology and fire protection engineering.

BP 344: ACCESSIBILITY LAW

“An Act to Enhance the Mobility of Disabled Persons by Requiring

Certain Buildings, Institutions, Establishments and Public Utilities to

Install Facilities and Other devices”.

PURPOSE Provide minimum requirements and standards to

make buildings, facilities and utilities for public use accessible to

disabled persons.

As stipulated in Section 46 of R.A. 7277, otherwise known as

the Magna Carta for Disabled Persons, any person who violates the

rules and regulations of this Act shall be fined or imprisoned.

5.3 ARCHITECTURAL SOLUTIONS

5.3.1 Post-Tensioning Method for floor slab

-Refers to the method of reinforcing concrete or other materials with

strengthened strands of steel. This method reduces the required concrete and

reinforcement, thus providing a more environmentally and economically

friendly solution. Benefits include:

-Lesser columns used/ more free open spaces

-Reduced construction costs

-Reduced carbon footprint

-Greater loading capacity

 33

Figure 16. Post-Tensioning slab

-Post-Tensioning provides reinforcement, placing the concrete under

compression in areas where the load causes tensile stress.

-In the case of the project, specifically for the parking facility, Post-Tensioning

method would be a good idea as it decreases the required number of columns,

so as to provide more slots for parking, and more space for cars to avoid

bumping into each other by accident.

5.3.2 Parking Slots

Taking into consideration the size of the buildable area of the lot,

whilst in combination with the space allotted for a garden ramp, and adhering

to the National Building Code, the total slots that would be added by the

building would be 52 (including PWD slots), as well as 43 motorcycle parking

slots.
 34

5.3.2 Urban Green Spaces

-As stated throughout this study, the aim of integrating a rooftop garden into

the building, aside from goals related to tourism, is to help mitigate the impact

of air pollution in the area. Incorporation of green spaces in urban areas has

been proven to be a big help in addressing this issue. In the case of this

project, a rooftop garden is proposed. And to amplify its effects in the vicinity,

the researcher proposes the idea of a “mini ecosystem”.

Figure 17. Urban Green Space

The idea is to replicate a self-sustaining environment, similar to those of

forests. Creating a micro ecosystem can help maximize the garden’s aim to

help keep the air clean, as well assist in maintaining the overall

environment/”green space”.

5.4 ARCHITECTURAL CONCEPTS

5.4.1 Harmonization of Urbanism and Nature

 35
While the primary intention of the building is to address both the issues of

traffic and air pollution, the idea was to do so while showcasing the concept of

combining the aspects of a city with the essence of nature. With the increasing

number of buildings being constructed everywhere, comes the decrease in natural

settings/ green spaces. This not only negatively affects public health, but the

environment and city image as well. The design aims to combine both urbanism and

nature so as to showcase the possibility of harmony between the two differing

concepts.

5.4.2 Operational and Construction Cost Estimates

Table 3. Cost estimates

Table 4. Operational cost estimate

36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
 45
References

Air Quality Expert Group. (n.d.). Impacts of Vegetation on Urban Air Pollution.

UK-AIR. Retrieved April 19, 2021, from

https://uk-air.defra.gov.uk/assets/documents/reports/cat09/1807251306_18050

9_Effects_of_vegetation_on_urban_air_pollution_v12_final.pdf?fbclid=IwAR

3ZJ3T957isdrOBJgsm91tXV1c1NIRI-N74cdWd5BnMJQ5hGqd3GH5MwBc

Barter, P. A. (2012, February 1). Off-street parking policy surprises in Asian cities. J.

Cities. (Available online 22 July 2011),

http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.cities.2011.06.007

Biswas, Subhadip & Chandra, Satish & Ghosh, Indrajit. (2017). Effects of On-Street

Parking In Urban Context: A Critical Review. Transportation in Developing

Economies. 3. 1-14. 10.1007/s40890-017-0040-2.

Brooks, C. (2017, June 1). The Small Garden – Design Ideas. The Small Garden.

https://thesmallgarden.com.au/blogpages/urban-greening-trends-from-around-t

he-world

Development Council of La Trinidad. (2019). Comprehensive Land Use Plan (THE

LAND USE PLAN ed., Vol. 4). N/A.

Dumbaugh E, Gattis JL (2005) Safe streets, livable streets. J Am Plan Assoc

71:283–300. doi: 10.1080/01944360508976699

Epstein, S. (2016, November 15). Urban Gardening Around the World. Brooklyn

Botanic Garden.

https://www.bbg.org/news/urban_gardening_around_the_world
 46
Espora, U. (2019a, May 3). 5 reasons for creating urban green spaces. URBAN

ESPORA.

https://www.urbanespora.com/en/5-reasons-for-creating-urban-green-spaces/

Glazer, A., & Niskanen, E. (1992). Parking fees and congestion. Regional Science and

Urban Economics, 22(1), 123–132.

https://doi.org/10.1016/0166-0462(92)90028-y

Grant, T. (2020, January 17). What are the effects of urban green spaces on air

pollution? Weedingtech.

https://www.weedingtech.com/blog/what-are-the-effects-of-urban-green-space

s-on-air-pollution/

Hutt, R., & Breene, K. (2016, October 27). 7 shocking facts about air pollution.

World Economic Forum.

https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2016/10/air-pollution-the-true-cost-in-numb

ers/

Jim, C.Y. & Konijnendijk van den Bosch, Cecil & Chen, Wendy. (2018). Acute

Challenges and Solutions for Urban Forestry in Compact and Densifying

Cities. Journal of Urban Planning and Development. 144.

10.1061/(ASCE)UP.1943-5444.0000466.

Liu, K. K. Y. (2002, March 2). Energy efficiency and environmental benefits of

rooftop gardens NRCC-45345. Academia.

https://www.academia.edu/36364256/Energy_efficiency_and_environmental_

benefits_of_rooftop_gardens_NRCC_45345

Marshall W, Garrick N, Hansen G (2008) Reassessing on-street parking. Transp Res

Rec J Transp Res Board 2046:45–52. doi:10.3141/2046-06

 47
McDonald, S. S. (2017, May 12). Parking Facilities. WBDG Whole Building Design

Guide. https://www.wbdg.org/building-types/parking-facilities

Mondal, Debasish. (2016). MULTI LEVEL STEEL CAR PARKING A smart choice

for eliminating traffic congestion. 10.13140/RG.2.2.21185.76646.

Municipal Planning & Development Council Of La Trinidad. (2019). Ecological

Profile (1st ed.). N/A.

Nunez, C. (2019, February 4). Air Pollution Causes, Effects, and Solutions. National

Geographic.

https://www.nationalgeographic.com/environment/global-warming/pollution/

O’Flaherty, M. (2017, June 9). Concrete Jungles | The world’s most innovative urban

gardens. Atlas by Etihad.

https://atlas.etihad.com/concrete-jungles-innovative-urban-gardens/

Peprah C, Oduro CY, Ocloo KA (2014) On-street parking and pedestrian safety in the

kumasi metropolis: issues of culture and attitude. Dev Ctry Stud 4:85–95

Sarkar, A. N. (2018, May 28). Drip irrigation systems in vertical and green roof

gardens. International Journal of Agriculture and Agricultural Sciences.

https://advancedscholarsjournals.org/full-articles/drip-irrigation-systems-in-ve

rtical-and-green-roof-gardens.pdf?view=inline.

Zhang, Kai & Batterman, Stuart. (2013). Air pollution and health risks due to vehicle

traffic. Science of The Total Environment. 450-451. 307-316.

Zhen (Sean) Qian a, Feng (Evan) Xiao b, H.M. Zhang c(2012), a Department of Civil

and Environmental Engineering, University of California, USA b College of

 48
Traffic and Transportation, Southwest Jiaotong University, China c School of

Transportation Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, PR China.

Zupancic, T., Westmacott, C., & Bulthuis, M. (2015, March 8). The impact of green

space on heat and air pollution in urban communities: A meta-narrative

systematic review. David Suzuki Foundation.

http://davidsuzuki.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/impact-green-space-heat-a

ir-pollution-urban-communities.pdf?fbclid=IwAR3hLVuMLSe_GPv2TvyGK

w0FyEJU0iyKtf6j95e-ZMu1nQypwdDWbKtSrFk

Baik, Jong-Jin & Kwak, Kyung-Hwan & Park, Seung-Bu & Ryu, Young-Hee. (2012).

Effects of building roof greening on air quality in street canyons. Atmospheric

Environment. 61. 48–55. 10.1016/j.atmosenv.2012.06.076.

 49
APPENDICES

Appendix A. Site Photos

Comfort room on-site Entrance to pay-parking

Entrance to pay-parking from the side of Pico-Lamtang road.

 50
Appendix B. Questionnaire
 51
Appendix C. Interview Letter
 52
Appendix D. Lot Documents
53
 54
CURRICULUM VITAE

#17 PARAAN ST. VICTORIA VILLAGE

QUEZON HILL, BAGUIO CITY
09276280527
[email protected]
[email protected]

PINEDA, MARC BENNET D.

Bachelor of Science in Architecture

College Education: 2014-2021

Saint Louis University
Bachelor of Science in Architecture

High School: 2011-2015

H.O.P.E. Christian Academy, Taroy, Wangal, Benguet

Elementary 2001-2002
H.O.P.E. Christian Academy, La Trinidad km. 5 La Trinidad, Benguet
2002-2011
H.O.P.E. Christian Academy, Taroy, Wangal, Benguet

Personal Data: Nickname: Macoy

Date & Place of Birth: February 16, 1998
Baguio City
Religion: Roman Catholic
Nationality: Filipino
Father: Benedict P. Pineda Sr.
Occupation: Municipal Engineer
Mother: Marcelyne D. Pineda
Occupation: None

Affiliation
/Organization: United Architects of the Philippines (UAPSA)
Student Auxiliary