The term “banig” refers to a native Filipino handwoven. a stunning embodiment of filipino artistry, weaves together tradition and craftmanship. Measures around 2 by 3 meters and can be used as a sleeping surface or as a home décor piece. made from “tikog,” a sturdy and resilient reed grass that trives abundantly in Samar Region. The culture around the tikog mat weaving industry that dates all the way back to the start of Spanish colonization. The banig mat-making industry is continuously treated as an heirloom, being passed down from generation to generation with each cohort rendering novelty ideas to the processes of mat weaving. The banig CENTER will serve as a hub for preserving the traditional craft and highlight the innovative use of these natural and raw materials.

BANIG is a cultural preservation community center for traditional craftsmanship of Tikog Mat Weaving in Basey, Samar. In current times it's evident that the banig mat weaving tradition is fading and that tikog product development is receiving less acknowledgement and admiration (Monte, et al. 2020). The decline in interest and practices poses a serious threat to this legacy. BANIG Community Center for Tikog Mat Weavers of Basey, Samar seeks to address these issues as a catalyst for economic growth, cultural development, and community engagement. To preserve the knowledge and practices for Tikog Mat weaving for future generations, the proposed BANIG Community Center’s main goal is to revive the craft. The center will offer a venue for learning, creativity, and community involvement, promoting a greater understanding of this unique tradition. This includes a Workshop and Training Area, SAMAR OTOP Hub, LARA Showroom, Processing Area, Weaving Area and a Local Café.

The cultural preservation community center for Tikog Mat Weavers of Basey, Samar will be a catalyst for economic development, contributing to the creation of jobs and enhancing the site’s tourism potential. Aims to improve the lives of local residents, through upgrading of utilities and services. Also, highlighting the importance of preserving the tikog mat weaving traditional craft practices and techniques, aspiring to inspire the new generation to appreciate this art and ensuring its continued prosperity. It will promote the integration of tradition and contemporary design, through collaborations with government programs like Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), One Town One Product (OTOP), & Lara Samar.

The BANIG Cultural Preservation Community Center is a multipurpose facility that is dedicated to revitalizing the Tikog mat weaving industry through education, innovation, and cultural preservation. It offers inclusive and sustainable spaces for craftsmen and the community to engage in meaningful activities centered on craftsmanship, entrepreneurship, and local identity.

Scope and Functional Spaces:

BANIG LOBBY
The lobby has a minimalist design & is decorated with a touch of a traditional Filipino style, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the province incorporating natural materials and neutral colors into the interiors. The use of vibrant banig patterns as a wall accent added a splash of color and texture, drawing the eye and inviting the visitors to appreciate the artistry and intricate details of banig. Locally made furniture chosen from local designers compliments the overall aesthetics which are crafted with an emphasis on sustainability, durability, and ergonomic design.

LARA SHOWROOM
LARA showcases innovative design pieces ranging from bags, shoes and home décor, designs are inspired by the way of living of Samarnons and ancient traditions. Each is uniquely handwoven, telling a story of traditions and craftsmanship passed down through generations. By elevating banig into a forefront as an iconic fashion staple and reinventing into contemporary creations, LARA is saving the industry. LARA provides sustainable livelihood opportunities, promotes Samar’s cultural heritage, and empower communities to weave a brighter future.

OTOP HUB
OTOP HUB Basey, Samar Philippines. OTOP Hub is a space showcasing products rooted from local culture and community resources. This will be a space or platform for Local entrepreneurs in Samar and from neighboring provinces to display their products and network with potential buyers.

WORKSHOP & TRAINING AREA- The workshop and training area is designed with an open floor plan to encourage collaboration and movement. An area for mat weaving workshops, classes and creative gatherings. A place where people can come together to learn, create, and connect. The space aims to encourage a connection with Mat weaving craftsmanship and give a welcoming and culturally-rich atmosphere. Interior key design elements include:

TIKOG PROCESSING AREA-
A facility for artisans to explore modern techniques, enhancing the quality and appeal of their products.This state-of-the-art facility seamlessly combines traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology, offering artisans tools to refine their skills and create exquisite tikog products. Here, artisans experiment with new methods , aided by advanced machinery that streamlines dyeing, drying, and flattening processes. Technology enhances efficiency and encourages creative exploration, allowing artisans to push craft boundaries while preserving cultural heritage.

BANIG WEAVING AREA
An open air space for tikog weavers. It is designed to give a relaxed and communal atmosphere. The space is a place for gathering and relaxation, also for community gatherings or workshops, reflecting traditional ways of life and craftsmanship. The roof/ceiling is made of wooden slats with purple accents that create a unique pattern inspired from the morning glory (specifically from a water spinach flower). The scene is peaceful and serene, creating a sense of tranquility. The lighting is bright and natural, highlighting the beauty of the place.
Surrounded with water lilies and water spinach. Lilies provide shade to keep the water temperature down during the hot summer months and help algae growth down. while water spinach reduces toxic effects of contaminants in the environment.

The building’s architectural design reflects a blend of traditional Filipino elements and contemporary construction techniques. The structures is envisioned to use reinforced concrete for durability, complemented by locally sourced materials that are found within the place such as bamboo, reclaimed wood, and woven tikog banig for aesthetics to create visual interest and celebrate local artistry. The spaces are designed with passive cooling features, such as high- sloped ceilings and louvered windows that maximizes natural daylight and airflow. Low- VOC (volatile organic compound) paints will be used to ensure indoor air quality and support users health. The layout follows universal design principles for accessibility. Technological innovations are utilized in the Tikog Processing Area through modern equipment for flattening and dyeing. The design also advocates a sustainable development practice that protects the environment and promotes resource efficiency. With the use of eco- friendly materials in the project building and prioritizing sustainability to mitigate climate change and preserve our natural resources. Moreover, Alignment with Sustainable Development Goals includes: Goal 1: NO POVERTY: By creating and providing jobs, and enhancing local livelihood. Goal 8: DECENT WORK & ECONOMIC GROWTH: Fostering economic growth by creating opportunities in line with the traditional tikog weaving craft. Goal 9: INDUSTRY, INNOVATION, & INFRASTRUCTURE: Designing space that integrate solutions that optimizes space utilization. Goal 10: REDUCED INEQUALITY:Prioritizing that the facilities interior spaces ensure universal design principles. Goal 13: CLIMATE CHANGE: ensuring that it can mitigate climate change impacts. Goal 15: LIFE ON LAND: Preserving local biodiversity through proper sourcing of materials and promoting ecological balance.