The Georgian Colonial house style in the Philippines can be traced back to the American colonial period, specifically between the late 19th century and early 20th century. The United States gained control of the Philippines after the Spanish-American War in 1898 and established an American colonial government.
During this time, the American colonial government implemented a policy known as the Burnham Plan. Named after architect and urban planner Daniel Burnham, the plan aimed to modernize the Philippine capital of Manila and transform it into a showcase of American architecture and urban design.
As part of this plan, the American government introduced various architectural styles, including the Georgian Colonial style, as a means to establish a visual connection to the United States and showcase American influence in the Philippines.
The Georgian Colonial style originated in the American colonies during the 18th century, characterized by symmetrical facades, large and symmetrical windows, central entries with embellished entryways, and rectangular or square floor plans. This architectural style was seen as a symbol of elegance, wealth, and authority.
Architects employed by the American colonial government, such as William E. Parsons and Ralph Harrington Doane, were responsible for introducing and popularizing the Georgian Colonial style in the Philippines. They designed government buildings, institutions, and residences using this architectural style.
One prominent example of Georgian Colonial architecture in the Philippines is the Malacañang Palace, the official residence of the Philippine President. Originally a Spanish colonial mansion, it underwent major renovations in the 1920s under the guidance of William E. Parsons, transforming it into a Georgian Colonial-style structure.
Overall, the history behind the Georgian Colonial house style in the Philippines can be attributed to the American colonial period and the efforts of American architects to establish a visual connection to the United States and promote American influence in the archipelago.
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