GRAND WINNER : ALWINA

Mendoza, John Francis D., Pelayo, Trix Angel B., Ramos, Margoth Kimberly M.
Don Honorio Ventura State University

Alwina

Alwina is a visionary structure that embodies the harmony of nature and architecture, inspired by the resilience of mangroves and the grace of bird wings. This haven serves as a gateway to understanding and protecting the delicate ecosystems of Balanga City while fostering meaningful connections between people and the environment.

The design prioritizes the symbiosis of natural preservation and human engagement, creating a space where biodiversity thrives and communities flourish—hitting two birds in one stone. The concept of biomimicry was applied in the design process. The foundation of Alwina draws inspiration from the intricate network of mangrove roots, elevating the structure above the ground to minimize disruption to the existing ecosystem.

Like mangroves anchoring against tides, this design ensures stability while preserving the wetland’s delicate hydrology. The roof, with its sweeping, winglike forms, symbolizes freedom and shelter, echoing the movements of migratory birds that grace the Pacific flyway. These elements combine to form a seamless architectural narrative that respects and amplifies the natural environment that surrounds it.

At its core, Alwina is a living system that regenerates, sustains, and connects. Trails through the mangroves allow visitors to explore without harming the fragile ecosystem. The materials used—bamboo, recycled wood, and translucent solar panels—blend seamlessly with the environment, ensuring the structure coexists harmoniously with its surroundings.

Passive cooling, rainwater harvesting, and solar energy systems reflect nature’s resource efficiency, reducing the structure’s carbon footprint. An educational hub within the structure is designed to inspire environmental stewardship. Art installations, interactive exhibits, and observation decks immerse visitors in the wetland’s ecological significance.

Programs for mangrove restoration and bird habitat conservation are central to the park’s mission, ensuring the protection of vital ecosystems for future generations, embodying the theme Salin-Likha.

Alwina also serves as a hub for social interaction, featuring open-air gathering spaces and venues for workshops and cultural events. These spaces are intentionally designed to reflect the circular, inclusive patterns found in nature, fostering a sense of community.

By supporting sustainable tourism, the park creates opportunities for local guides, artisans, and eco-tourism entrepreneurs, blending recreation with responsible economic growth. Alwina is more than a space; it is a beacon of sustainable living.

It celebrates the delicate balance between humanity and the natural world, ensuring that conservation, education, and community remain its guiding principles. Through its thoughtful design, it promises a future where nature and people coexist in harmony.