First in HIP : We thought you were gone... Laperal Apartments Restoration

Laperal Apartments facade

Its been 4 years since we last heard of the Laperal Apartments. The Art-deco building bought by University of the East, reduced to rubble leaving only its original facade left to crumble... But as time passes on, this tragedy might not be a threat after all.

It turns out all it was a bunch of hogwash! At least to them..

Hopes are high and prayers were answered! Yes my friend, The Laperal Apartments is coming back better than ever! With its target date approaching this March 2016.

We were able to briefly talk to the chief engineer working on the site, after asking directions from the construction workers; They want to set things straight...

UPDATES

The engineer made it clear that the owner of the Laperal is NOT University of the East also known as U.E, but instead a private owner under the name "Stephen". Apparently the apartments were for a long time, just a shell when Sir Stephen bought it; he was greeted with nothing but a decaying facade, and informal settlers on the open lot. His architects were quick to recognize that the building was built in the 1950s and recommended to adaptively reuse the facade, and design an interior that blends with its original architecture.

We also saw that there were different proposals on how to restore it, based on the 3d render images on the table. They told me they chose a "contemporary form" of adaptive reuse, wherein new additions are added. I wasn't able to take pictures inside out of respect since i was unexpected company, but i was able to take a picture of the staircase. Not much huh?

Lapera Apartment Staircase

The facade has been slightly modified to suit modern amenities while the back has been extended for more rooms. A mid-rise (14-storey) will be constructed behind the Laperal Apts, at the right flank as part of its expansion. The remaining left flank will be dedicated to parking and an outdoor bar, from what i understood.

These are still questionable info but we believe its credible, coming from the contractors. If ever we needed any more information, we were told to submit a letter to notify the owner and ask permission for interviews on the building.

This update made a 180 degree turn on what i expect for Laperal Apartments. We thought it was a goner, when all this time it was just silently getting back on its knees. I applaud the efforts done by Sir Stephen to save this piece of heritage, and the architects who suggested adaptive reuse and the thoughtful designs of the interior.

It can be done. Heritage can be saved. Too early to give up.. There are still people out there willing to shoulder the cost of restoration, just to see them shine again... for decades to come.


MORE UPDATES ON THE RESTORATION WILL BE POSTED SOON, ONCE WERE GRANTED PERMISSION TO INTERVIEW AND SCOUR THE INTERIORS.


Written by: Peter Danielle Q. Rallos
Edited by: Axl Guinto