Escuela Taller Magazine - Issue 1

In Action
Section
The main façade
after conservation.
It is often said that a conservation project is like opening a can of worms—repairing
one small part would lead to discovering other problems, bringing more challenge
to the project. For the Malate Church, the original intention to restore the exterior
walls had developed to include works on the interior, on the roof, and on the church
grounds.
The choir loft that was supported by a heavy steel beam inserted into the adobe
wall near the window opening had to be removed due to structural threats brought
about by corrosion and its sheer weight. The choir loft which will be of wood and
independent of the wall will be reinstated once the design is completed. While the
choir loft area is temporarily empty, it was decided to apply the same lime-based
mortar plastered on the exterior walls to further improve the breathability of the
walls, especially around the main façade. The porous and low thermal conductive
property of the lime-based plaster is also expected to improve temperature inside
the church. Eventually, the entire interior walls will be re-plastered as the exterior
walls. To further enhance thermal comfort, more ceiling and roof vents were added
to increase airflow and reduce accumulated heat and humidity inside the church.
The restoration of the church does not stop with the structure itself. Development
of the whole complex is also being addressed to enhance the architectural and
spiritual experience in Malate Church. Initial works have been done to improve
the side walk and drainage system of the site that led to the unearthing of bones
probably from the casualties of the Second World War and a cistern made of bricks
beside the south wall where the pietà is now located. Archeologists helped in
recovering the bones and in coordinating with the National Museum for tagging.
The cistern that was crudely filled with earth and rubble when it was discovered
was documented and systematically backfilled for stability. A design for the entire
church grounds is being developed which will feature improved parking layout,
walkways, a garden, and a fence that will match the architecture of the church.
The restoration of the Malate Church was a huge endeavour for Our Lady of
Remedies Parish, Escuela Taller, and the community, but the strong partnership
made things work. The conservation of Malate Church did not only repair the
damaged heritage structure but also restored hope in the lives of the young
graduates and trainees of Escuela Taller.
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