A communal hub and food hall that evokes the spirit and ambiance of being back home in the Philippines
Going back home to the Philippines for the first time in over a decade after migrating has deepened my sense of connectedness to the place, people, and environment of my childhood, as well as the culture itself. The visit made me realize that the essence of my upbringing is an integral part of who I am.
Being immersed in the familiar environment of home, surrounded by the sights, sounds, and smells that I had missed dearly was a significant aspect of my experience. The vibrant celebrations, warmth of family and old friends reunions, and the simple joy of spending time with loved ones left an unforgettable impression on me. Inspired by this powerful reconnection and profound experience, I want to create a space that encapsulates these cherished feelings of being back home.
I envision a multifaceted tambayan space that also functions as a dynamic food hall, offering a unique blend of community gathering and culinary delights. This project aims to create a vibrant hub where people can connect, share stories, and savor the flavors of home in a warm, welcoming, and communal environment.
This envisioned space aims to capture the essence of a Filipino food hall, providing a nostalgic and immersive experience that brings the warmth and camaraderie of a tambayan to life. Through this design, the Tambayan space seeks to foster a sense of community and connection, reminiscent of the vibrant food culture and social interactions central to the Filipino life.
To further strengthen the Tambayan space and enhance the sense of community and connectedness I strive to build, Tambayan Stories was developed. The concept is to collect personal stories and experiences related to tambayan spaces.
By incorporating Tambayan Stories, I hope to deepen the sense of belonging and community within the space. Each story on the wall will be a testament to the diverse and rich experiences of individuals, reinforcing the idea that Tambayan is not just a physical space, but a shared experience that brings people together. This initiative will allow visitors to connect on a personal level, appreciating the commonalities and celebrating the uniqueness of each story, ultimately enriching the Tambayan experience and making it a vibrant tapestry of shared memories and connections.
