MANILA, Philippines - Name one of the three designers of Malacañang Palace when it was reconstructed in the 1870s.
The seat of power for the Philippine government was originally in Intramuros. When an earthquake destroyed the Intramuros palace in 1863, Governor-General Rafael de Echague y Berminghan decided to temporarily occupy Malacañang, the government’s official country house, an estate fronting the Pasig River and previously owned by Don Luis Rocha, scion of a prominent Spanish family. A typical bahay na bato, Malacañang was enlarged and redecorated in the 1870s based on the three architects’ proposal, including one who was designated state architect. Another earthquake had thwarted plans to rebuild the original palace in Intramuros, and so all resources were poured into the redesign of Malacañang Palace, which included pavilions, new buildings, furnishings purchased from Europe and locally, new rooms, a library and offices. From an unused country house, Malacañang Palace had finally become a place worthy to house the “First Authority in These Islands.”
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Last week’s question: Who is the French-born chef who introduced Americans to a whole new experience in pastries and French cuisine through his pastry shop and restaurants? He also designed the French menu for the cafe of the National Gallery of Art in Washington, DC.
Answer: Michel Richard
Winner: Wilma Elegante of QC
Text your answer to 0917-9498721 with your name and address. One winner will be chosen through a raffle of texts with the correct answer. The winner will receive P2,000 worth of SM gift certificates for use at Our Home, SM Department Store, or SM Supermarket. They can claim their prize at Our Home in SM Megamall. Call the store manager at 634-1950, 634-1943. Bring photocopies of two valid IDs and a clipping of the Design Quiz issue in which you appear as winner.