2014

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Barangay Cogon, Balilihan Bohol, Philippines

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The rural town of Cogon sits on Bohol Island, a region hard hit by the 2013 Philippines Earthquake. With a population of around 700, Cogon’s resources are limited and day school was, until recently, held in the town’s small chapel. This project, funded in part by the Japan International Cooperation Agency, aimed to create a new day school and community space for the people of Cogon.

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All structural components for the building were pre-cut using a CNC facility at Bohol Island State University’s Fab Lab. To further streamline the process, wood joinery techniques were applied including wooden wedges, which allowed the structural frame to be assembled without glue, nails, or power tools. After conducting a workshop with local children and families, construction commenced with citizens and students from Keio University taking equal part. Local materials including woven bamboo panels serve as the skin for the structural skeleton and tie the building to the architectural traditions of Bohol.