At Last, Him

Chapter 11: A Bit Lighter

I was so busy I didn't notice how fast the time flew. It had been already a month since I started working here in Bali, and I had finally begun to feel at home. Today was particularly hectic at the studio; I was swamped with revisions for the airport design. My task was to integrate Filipino and Balinese architecture while ensuring it aligned with the organic principles that our studio was known for.

"Shan, how's that section coming along?" Ar. Marco asked, glancing up from his own sketches. He was a senior architect, one of the newly hired kasabay ko, and I appreciated the way he blended modern and organic design elements.

"Malapit nang matapos, Tek. I'm trying to incorporate the way traditional Balinese architecture harmonizes with the environment," I replied, tapping my pen against the notepad. "Pero gusto ko rin sana i-consider 'yong Filipino bahay kubo elements—those raised structures with natural ventilation."

"Good approach! Siguro mag-focus ka rin sa kung paano nagagamit 'yong bamboo both in Filipino and Balinese architecture to enhance airflow and reduce heat. It's a sustainable material, after all," Ar. Marco suggested, his brow furrowed in concentration.

Tumango ako, nakaramdam ako ng matinding excitement sa mga ideya niya. "Totoo, Tek. I could also explore how the roofs can catch rainwater for sustainable usage. It's something we do back home too."

"Exactly, Shan," nakangiting sabi niya. "It's great to see you embracing both cultures in your designs. Tatandaan mo rin na lagi na dapat panatilihin 'yong pagiging functional and aesthetically pleasing."

His praise gave me confidence. I admired Ar. Marco's experience and found myself learning a lot from him. He had a knack for balancing aesthetics with functionality, and I appreciated the way he guided me without overshadowing my own ideas.

"Speaking of Filipino architecture, ano sa tingin mo ang paggamit ng Capiz shells for some of the design elements? They could add a unique touch," tanong ko, curious sa pananaw niya.

"Capiz shells? That's an interesting idea. They have that translucent quality that can really play with light," sagot ni Ar. Marco na kumikinang ang mga mata. "Puwede kang gumawa ng partitions or kahit isama mo sila sa window designs. It would give a beautiful glow and connect the indoor and outdoor spaces."

I smiled, excited by his enthusiasm. "Exactly! Plus, they're lightweight and easy to source back home. It would tie in nicely with the organic theme we're aiming for."

"Let's sketch some ideas around that," sabi ni Ar. Marco, na binaliktad na ang isang bagong pahina sa kanyang sketchpad. "We could even explore how they resonate with Balinese design aesthetics. It's all about the interplay of materials."

"Salamat, Tek Marco. Sa totoo lang, nangangapa pa talaga ako, but your feedback really helps," I said, feeling grateful for his mentorship.

"Just keep pushing your boundaries. You have a lot of potential," he replied, returning to his sketches. Working alongside him was not just a job; it was a chance to grow and refine my skills as an architect.

As I immersed myself in the revisions, I was grateful for this opportunity to learn from someone as talented as Architect Marco. Anyway, he's 4 years older than me.

Buti na nga lang at may kapwa akong Pinoy dito sa opisina. At least, may mga oras na nakakapag-Tagalog ako habang nagtatrabaho. Mahirap na, baka pagbalik ko ng Pilipinas kinakalawang na 'yong Tagalog ko.

I was deep into my revisions, lost in the lines and ideas swirling around the design, nang ang boses ni Ar. Maria ay umalingawngaw sa studio.

"Everyone, conference room, please!" anunsyo niya, ang kanyang tono ay parehong commanding and charged with excitement.