There's a famous saying that goes, "A boy's first hero is his dad."

More often than not, children strive to imitate their father's actions. Even later on in life, many of us tend to consult our dad when it comes to making major decisions.

This is perhaps why many people choose to follow their dad's footsteps when it comes to their careers. In particular, the field of architecture boasts of numerous father-and-son tandems, who have successfully made their mark in the world.

In honor of Father's Day, let us take a look at local architectural giants who inspired their children to follow the same paths to greatness.

Lor CalmaOne of the most recognized names in Philippine architecture and interior design, Lorenzo "Lor" Calma's name is permanently etched in our country's design history. He is one of the founders of the Philippine Institute of Interior Design (PSID), a well-established school for aspiring designers. His firm is behind some popular buildings in the last century as well: the Silahis International Hotel, the Puerto Azul Resort and the Hyatt Hotel. Besides architectural and interior design works, his furniture pieces and jewelry designs are also considered collector's items.

Eduardo "Ed" Calma, his son, has made a name for himself in the industry as well. Having studied and trained abroad, the younger Calma is known for projects such as the College of St. Benilde School of Design and Arts, De La Salle University Centennial Building, CLIPP Center and Headquarters of the MDC Company. An architect and interior designer like his father, Calma is sought-after for his clean and sculpture-like creations. He has set himself apart from his father's legacy by reflecting a different sort of aesthetics from the latter.

Together, the two Calmas are among the most prolific designers that our country has produced. Both father and son can be considered vanguards in modern Philippine architecture.

William V. CoscolluelaEstablished in 1957, the W.V. Coscolluela & Associates (WVCA) is behind some of our country's modern architectural wonders. Its principal, William V. Coscolluela, started his practice humbly, preparing work on his home's dining table.

Today, the firm is recognized for several iconic buildings—the Ayala Twin Towers, Philamlife Tower, RCBC Plaza and SM North Edsa. It is also the genius behind two great landmarks in Metro Manila—Zuellig Building in Makati City and SM Aura Premier in Taguig City. William V. Coscolluela, however, is no longer alone in managing the reins of his empire. His twin sons, Gil and Gary, work in collaboration with their father on many of the firm's projects. They have also established themselves in their own individual works, something that their father is highly proud of.

The rest of the family is involved in the company together with many staff members who have been with the firm for many years now. The future of WVCA, however, primarily lies in the hands of the younger Coscolluelas. In the words of their father, "My sons are continuing the legacy of innovative design, good quality work, finished on time and on budget."

Leandro LocsinBestowed with the prestigious National Artist Award in 1990, Leandro Locsin was one of the great Filipino designers of the 20th century. Among his numerous works were the UP Church of the Holy Sacrifice, Cultural Center of the Philippines-Theatre of Performing Arts, National Arts Center and the former Mandarin Oriental Manila. While he passed away in 1994, his legacy continues to live on in his son Leandro "Andy" Locsin Jr.

Along with his father's former partners, Andy Locsin maintains the Leandro V. Locsin and Partners (LVLP) design firm. He serves as LVLP's administrator and design consultant. The company continues to deliver landmark projects, such as the Streetlight Tagpuro emergency services facility (designed with Eriksson Furnes), and Asya Premiere Suite Boracay. Streetlight Tagpuro, in particular, won the Civic and Community Category and the Small Project of the Year Award at the World Architecture Festival in 2017.

While its founder may have gone, LVLP continues to be a reputable design group that has a bright future ahead of it. Taking his father's lessons to heart, Andy Locsin proves that the spirit of great design can live on and be further explored.

Like father, like son

It takes guts to follow in the heels of someone great. Yet for the sons of Lor Calma, William V. Coscolluela and Leandro Locsin, it's all about continuing their fathers' legacy and finding their own. While their fathers paved the way for their careers, Ed Calma, Gil and Gary Coscolluela and Andy Locsin prove that they are also mighty forces to be reckoned with. Their fathers taught them well in upholding standards and pursuing passion, much to the benefit of the Filipino masses.

This Father's Day, let us celebrate the men who made and molded us into the persons we are today. While not all dads are well-known or much celebrated, each of them has given us the opportunity to live our lives and pursue our dreams. They are all heroes in their own right, worthy of our admiration, love and respect.

Sources:

Wvcarchitects.com, Edcalma.com, Bluprint.onemega.com