PAMANTASAN NG LUNGSOD NG MAYNILA

College of Architecture and Sustainable Built Environments

A Comprehensive Study of the Correctional Institution for Women in

Mandaluyong City Towards its New Design in Nueva Ecija for Effective
Rehabilitation and Reintegration

A Thesis Presented to
College of Architecture and Sustainable Built Environments
Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila

In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree

Bachelor of Science in Architecture

By
Lady Quincy C. Dimalibot
202011109
Jean Maxine I. Villar
202013380

Ar. Donna Veronica P. Rabe, uap,

Thesis Adviser

March 2025
7.1. Design Concept: “Healing Sanctuary”

Philosophy: The design vision is to create a " "Bahay-Palay: A Healing Sanctuary and Guiding Light"
that emphasizes rehabilitation through modern utilitarianism, focusing on functional spaces that
prioritize safety and normalization. Inspired by Nueva Ecija’s identity as an educational and
agricultural hub, this concept merges rehabilitation. The goal is to create an environment that minimizes
institutional characteristics while promoting positive behavioral change.

The name "Palayan" literally means rice field in Filipino. Rice fields symbolize growth, resilience, and
renewal—all of which align with the goals of rehabilitation and reintegration. This concept envisions
the facility as a self-sustaining, nature-integrated complex, where inmates grow and transform like the
rice that thrives in the fields.

This modern utilitarian approach redefines correctional facilities as environments conducive to

rehabilitation rather than punishment. By emphasizing functional design principles, integrating trauma-
informed strategies, and organizing spaces into functional clusters, the facility aims to promote positive
inmate outcomes while maintaining security. This architectural framework not only addresses the
operational needs of correctional institutions but also fosters a supportive environment that encourages
personal growth and community reintegration. This paper reflects a commitment to modern
utilitarianism in correctional facility design, balancing functionality with humane treatment principles.

The architectural approach is to create a building on the same scale and with the same structure as,
including streets and squares which will ensure a familiar and varied experience of the prison
environment and keep the prison's institutional atmosphere to a minimum.

Key Principles

1. .Trauma-Informed and Human-Centered Design

● Spaces are designed to be predictable and stress-free, promoting safety and security.
● Single-occupancy cells and communal areas encourage autonomy and social
interaction.
● Natural light, open layouts, and warm materials create a non-institutional atmosphere.
2. Normalization Through Environment
● Residential-style housing, communal kitchens, and recreational spaces replicate real-
world settings.
● Inclusive spaces foster community-building and emotional well-being.
3. Education as Rehabilitation: Gabay, A Guiding Light
● Inspired by Nueva Ecija’s academic institutions, the facility integrates libraries,
classrooms, and digital learning centers.
● Collaborations with CLSU and PhilRice provide vocational training in agriculture,
literacy, and technology.
● Mentorship and literacy programs prepare inmates for societal reintegration.
4. Sustainability and Self-Sufficiency: Bahay-Palay
● A self-sustaining correctional complex inspired by Nueva Ecija’s rice fields,
embodying resilience and renewal.
 ● Buildings are arranged in a grid-like pattern reminiscent of irrigation canals and rice
paddies, symbolizing structured rehabilitation.
● Sustainable farming spaces, including rice fields, vegetable gardens, and aquaponics,
offer inmates hands-on agricultural training.
● Earth-tone materials such as adobe, bamboo, and textured concrete reinforce the
region’s agricultural identity.
5. Architectural Symbolism: A Sanctuary of Growth
● Vertical elements on facades resemble rice stalks, reinforcing the connection to Palayan
City’s farming heritage.
● Linear patterns mimic irrigation canals, representing structure, discipline, and progress
within the correctional system.
● The integration of nature, learning, and rehabilitation symbolizes the transformative
journey from incarceration to reintegration.
6. Human-centered approach:
● Facilities should convey dignity and trust, rejecting dehumanizing designs (e.g., razor-
wire fences, cramped cells) in favor of spaces that reduce stress and encourage
behavioral change..

Design Elements

● Campus-Like Layout: Inspired by Nueva Ecija’s universities, the facility includes a library,
learning centers, and vocational schools.
● Rice Research & Innovation Center: Collaboration with PhilRice or CLSU to provide
inmates with training in agriculture and sustainability.
● Mentorship & Literacy Programs: Partnerships with local educators to offer formal
education, literacy, and digital skills training.
● Rice Field-Inspired Layout: Buildings are arranged in a grid-like pattern, resembling
irrigation canals and rice paddies, symbolizing interconnectedness and structured rehabilitation.
● Earth-Tone Materials: Use of adobe, bamboo, and textured concrete to reflect Nueva Ecija’s
agricultural identity.
● Sustainable Farming Spaces: Inmates participate in rice farming, vegetable gardening, and
aquaponics, reinforcing Nueva Ecija’s agricultural heritage.
● High Ceilings for Passive Cooling: Structures feature natural ventilation to reduce reliance on
mechanical cooling.
● Healing Courtyards & Reflection Spaces: Integrating meditation gardens, shaded pavilions,
and water elements to promote mental well-being.
Figure : Design Concept: Intention and Approach

Figure 1: Site Development Plan

 Figure 2: Site Development Plan Perspective

7.2. Planning Concept: “Functional Clusters”

This concept involves organizing the institution into functional clusters or "villages," each serving a
specific purpose in the rehabilitation process. The planning focuses on efficient circulation, accessible
amenities, and flexible spaces that can adapt to changing needs.

Functional Clusters:

1. Intake & Assessment Village:

○ Spaces: Admin Building, Commitment Building, temporary housing.
○ Circulation: Clear wayfinding and secure access to inner areas.
○ Amenities: Private interview rooms, assessment spaces.
2. General Living Villages:
○ Spaces: Housing units, shared dining, recreational areas. Zoned layouts separate
inmate groups (e.g., by risk level) while maintaining self-sufficient units.
○ Circulation: Pedestrian-friendly paths.
○ Amenities: Green spaces, community gardens.
3. Therapeutic & Healing Village:
○ Spaces: Infirmary, counseling rooms, sensory rooms.
○ Circulation: Calming pathways, secure access.
○ Amenities: Outdoor therapy spaces, healing gardens.
4. Vocational & Educational Village:
○ Spaces: Workshops, classrooms, library/resource center.
○ Circulation: Easy access to different training areas.
○ Amenities: Retail space for inmate-made products.
5. Secure Housing Village:
○ Spaces: Maximum security housing units, secure outdoor exercise areas.
○ Circulation: Controlled access, sight lines for officers.
 ○ Amenities: Access to counseling services.
6. Family & Community Engagement Village:
○ Spaces: Visitation area, family counseling center.
○ Circulation: Welcoming entrance, secure access.
○ Amenities: Children's play area, re-entry support services.
7. Central Services & Administration Village:
○ Spaces: Command Control Building, Utilities, Storage.
○ Circulation: Efficient access to utility areas.
○ Amenities: Backup power systems, communication hubs.

Figure 4: Initial Plan for Visitation Building

 Figure 5: Initial Plan for Commitment Building

Figure 6: Initial Plan for Minimum Dormitories Building

Figure 7: Initial Plan for Hospital Building (Ground and Second Floor)

Figure 8: Initial Plan for Hospital Building (Third and FourthFloor)

 Figure 9: Initial Plan for Livelihood and Development Building

Figure 10: Initial Plan for First Floor Administration, Staff Housing and Storage Building
Figure 10: Initial Plan for Second Floor Administration, Staff Housing and Storage Building

Figure 10: Initial Plan for Third Floor Administration, Staff Housing and Storage Building
Figure 10: Initial Plan for Fourth Floor Administration, Staff Housing and Storage Building

Figure 10: Initial Plan for First Floor Medium Security

Figure 10: Initial Plan for Second Floor Medium Security

Figure 10: Initial Plan for Maximum Security

 Figure 10: Initial Plan for Therapuetic

7.3. Form Concept: Preliminary Drawings and Models

To visualize the design, preliminary drawings and models can be developed using a combination of
digital tools and physical models. The form concept should reflect the "Healing Facility" and
"Functional Clusters" ideas, emphasizing a layout with clusters of buildings around a central green
space.

The site will be designed more like a surveilled community rather than a prison and boasts a community-
oriented feel. Inmates are given self-care responsibilities that one would normally assume in the outside
world. Rehabilitation is integral to this design, and access to training and educational programs allows
inmates to develop employable skills they can use once released. This facility was also designed to
encourage visits from the local community. Warm and inviting visitor spaces were created to encourage
frequent visits from family and friends. In turn, the increase in community engagement decreases the
feeling of isolation among inmates.

The lack of humanity is so stark in correctional facilities that it’s no wonder such high rates of
emotional, mental and physical health problems exist within these compounds. This is why prioritized
natural light must be ensured where each prison cell has its own source of daylight (while maintaining
strict security). Views of the surrounding open spaces of green areas can be seen throughout the facility
and encourage this connection to the outside world as well as aid in establishing a healthy circadian
rhythm. The prioritization of natural light minimizes the need for abrasive fluorescent lights often used
in correctional facilities and ultimately, creates a healthier living environment.

Visual Elements:

● Clustered Buildings: Each functional cluster is designed as a self-contained unit with its own
character, using materials and colors that promote a sense of community and well-being.
● Use of durable materials such as concrete, steel, and glass that are both functional and
aesthetically pleasing.
● Simple geometric forms that promote efficiency while avoiding the oppressive feel of
traditional prisons.
● Green Spaces: Central courtyards and gardens provide a calming environment and
opportunities for outdoor activities.
Spatial Organization and Materiality
● Decentralized layouts: Smaller, campus-style clusters instead of monolithic structures to reduce
institutional feel.
● Green design:
● Landscaped outdoor spaces and access to nature to alleviate psychological strain.
● Use of warm, non-reflective materials (e.g., wood accents, colored concrete) to soften
environments.
● Security-integrated aesthetics:
● Perimeter security disguised with architectural features (e.g., berms, vegetated
barriers).
● Durable, vandal-resistant finishes that balance maintenance needs with visual appeal.

Design Narrative for Building Forms: Clean Lines and Vertical Elements in Building Forms
The architectural design of the correctional facility embraces modern utilitarianism, characterized by
clean lines and a harmonious balance of vertical and horizontal forms. This approach not only enhances
functionality but also creates an environment conducive to rehabilitation and community integration.
Clean Lines and Geometric Simplicity
The decision to utilize clean lines in the building forms reflects a commitment to simplicity and
efficiency. By minimizing unnecessary ornamentation, the design promotes a sense of order and clarity,
which is crucial in a correctional environment. The straightforward geometric shapes facilitate easy
navigation throughout the facility, ensuring that both staff and inmates can move efficiently between
various functional areas. This design choice aligns with contemporary trends in correctional architecture
that prioritize safety, visibility, and operational efficiency.
Vertical Elements Inspired by Local Culture
The vertical elements of the building facade, particularly the vertical slats on the dormitories, draw
inspiration from the rice stalks and irrigation canals that are emblematic of Palayan City's agricultural
landscape. This design choice serves multiple purposes:
1. Cultural Connection: The use of vertical slats mimics the natural forms found in the rice fields
surrounding Palayan City, reinforcing a connection to the local culture and environment. This
homage to the region’s agricultural heritage helps to humanize the facility, making it feel less
institutional and more integrated into its context.
2. Functional Benefits: The vertical slats provide practical benefits by allowing for natural
ventilation and daylighting within the dormitory spaces. This not only enhances the living
conditions for inmates but also reduces reliance on artificial lighting and mechanical ventilation
systems, aligning with sustainable design principles.
3. Symbolic Representation: The rice stalks symbolize growth, resilience, and nourishment—
qualities that are essential for rehabilitation. By incorporating these elements into the building's
design, the facility sends a powerful message about transformation and renewal, encouraging
inmates to envision their potential for positive change.
Horizontal Forms for Stability
In contrast to the vertical elements, horizontal forms in the building design contribute to a sense of
stability and grounding. The expansive horizontal layouts of communal areas, educational spaces, and
recreational facilities foster interaction among inmates and staff, promoting a community-oriented
atmosphere. These horizontal forms create inviting spaces that encourage social engagement, reducing
feelings of isolation often associated with incarceration.
The architectural language of the correctional facility—characterized by clean lines, vertical elements
inspired by rice stalks, and stable horizontal forms—reflects a thoughtful integration of functionality
with cultural significance. This design narrative not only enhances security and operational efficiency
but also fosters an environment conducive to rehabilitation. By embracing local influences from Palayan
City, the facility becomes a place where inmates can envision their growth and reintegration into society
while maintaining a strong connection to their roots.

Housing Units
● Decentralized "campus" clusters: Residential-style buildings organized around courtyards to
reduce institutional atmosphere.
● Direct supervision layouts: Officer stations integrated into living areas with clear sightlines into
bedrooms, avoiding traditional barred cells.
● Normalized communal spaces: Kitchens, dining areas, and lounges designed to mirror external
residential environments.
Educational/Program Spaces
● Multi-purpose classrooms: Flexible layouts with movable partitions to accommodate
vocational training, academic courses, and group therapy.
● Workshop zones: Industrial-grade spaces for vocational programs (e.g., carpentry, coding) with
modular workstations.
Recreational Areas
● Outdoor courtyards: Landscaped green spaces for sports and seasonal activities to promote
mental health.
● Indoor gyms: Weight rooms, cardio equipment, and multipurpose courts for year-round use.
● Hobby rooms: Arts/crafts studios, music practice spaces, and game rooms with pool/ping-pong
tables to reduce idleness.
Medical Facilities
● Modular clinic design: Adjustable exam rooms for physical/mental health services,
telemedicine stations for remote consultations.
● Therapeutic outdoor spaces: Secure gardens or walking paths adjacent to medical facility for
stress reduction.
Administrative Zones
● Centralized staff hubs: Open-plan offices with visibility into inmate activity zones to balance
security and accessibility.
● Training centers: Simulation rooms for staff to practice crisis management and rehabilitative
coaching techniques.
Each facility’s form integrates sustainable materials (e.g., wood accents, colored concrete), durable
finishes, and technology infrastructure (e.g., CCTV, electronic locks) to balance security with
rehabilitative goals.

Facility-Specific Forms
 1. Housing Units:
● Designed as low-rise clusters with cells facing shared living spaces, promoting
interaction among inmates while maintaining privacy.
● Outdoor access from living quarters to encourage physical activity and connection with
nature.
● arranged in clusters around shared courtyards. These forms promote community
interaction while maintaining security.
2. Educational Spaces:
● Classrooms equipped with modular furniture to allow reconfiguration based on
program needs. Flexible rectangular structures designed for multi-purpose use. The
interiors can be reconfigured to accommodate classrooms, workshops, or therapy
sessions.
● Dedicated areas for vocational training that mimic real-world environments (e.g.,
kitchens, workshops).
3. Medical Facilities:
● Linear buildings with adjacent outdoor spaces for therapeutic activities such as walking
or gardening. These forms ensure easy navigation while promoting a calming
environment.
● Healing gardens adjacent to medical units for therapeutic purposes.
● Flexible examination rooms designed for various health services while ensuring
privacy.

The architectural design of the correctional facility emphasizes clean lines and a combination of vertical
and horizontal forms, which serve both functional and symbolic purposes. This design approach is
carefully crafted to enhance security, promote rehabilitation, and reflect the local culture of Palayan
City.

1. Functional Efficiency

The use of clean lines and geometric simplicity in the building forms facilitates operational efficiency.
Straightforward layouts reduce complexity in navigation, allowing both staff and inmates to move easily
throughout the facility. This design choice aligns with modern correctional architecture principles that
is in line with Bucor’s goal, prioritizing visibility and control, ensuring that staff can monitor inmate
activities effectively while minimizing blind spots.

The horizontal forms create expansive communal areas that encourage social interaction, while vertical
elements provide necessary height for natural ventilation and daylighting. This balance between vertical
and horizontal design enhances the overall functionality of the facility, promoting a safe and secure
environment conducive to rehabilitation.

2. Cultural Resonance

The vertical slats on the dormitories' facades are inspired by rice stalks and irrigation canals, which are
significant elements of Palayan City's agricultural landscape. This design choice serves to establish a
connection between the facility and its local context, fostering a sense of belonging among inmates. By
incorporating local cultural references into the architecture, the facility not only honors Palayan's
identity but also helps to humanize the correctional environment.

These vertical elements symbolize growth, resilience, and nourishment—qualities essential for
rehabilitation. The visual representation of rice stalks serves as a reminder of the inmates' potential for
personal growth and transformation, reinforcing the facility's mission to support positive behavioral
change.

3. Sustainability and Comfort

The clean lines and vertical forms also contribute to sustainable design practices. The vertical slats
allow for natural light to penetrate deep into the building's interior while facilitating cross-ventilation,
reducing reliance on artificial lighting and mechanical cooling systems. This not only enhances the
comfort of living spaces but also promotes energy efficiency within the facility.

Moreover, the integration of agricultural themes into the building morphology encourages inmates to
engage with their environment positively. Spaces designed for gardening or outdoor activities can be
incorporated alongside these vertical elements, further connecting inmates with nature and promoting
well-being.

4. Security Considerations

From a security standpoint, the clean lines and straightforward geometries minimize opportunities for
concealment, enhancing safety within the facility. The use of vertical elements creates a sense of height
that can deter escape attempts while maintaining an open feel that discourages feelings of confinement
among inmates.

In summary, the building morphologies characterized by clean lines and a blend of vertical and
horizontal forms are not merely aesthetic choices; they are deeply rooted in functional efficiency,
cultural significance, sustainability, and security considerations. By reflecting both modern
architectural principles and local influences from Palayan City, this design approach creates an
environment that supports rehabilitation while fostering a connection to community identity.
 Figure 00: Commitment Building Morphology

Figure 00: Administration, Staff, and Storage Building Morphology

Figure 00: Minimum Dormitories Building Morphology

Figure 00: Medium Dormitories Building Morphology

Figure 00: Maximum Dormitories Building Morphology

Figure 00: Hospital Building Morphology

Figure 00: Livelihood and Development Building Morphology

Figure 00: Therapeutic Spaces Building Morphology

Figure 00: Visitation Building Morphology

Figure 00: Utilities Building Morphology