Caribbean-inspired lifescape

Among builders of high-end residential communities, maverick real estate player Brittany Corp. stands out for offering "lifescapes," each of which is a total environment for the enjoyment of daily living that elevates the quality of life of residents to new levels of fulfillment. A signature Brittany "lifescape" is created with a theme inspiration from among the world’s most desirable destinations, one that harmonizes with the location and its natural features, combined with thoughtful master-planning that strikes up a synergy with the thematic influences, resulting in a one-of-a-kind enclave that captivates the hearts of the fortunate few who will reside in them.

One such "lifescape" is found in the Caribbean-inspired development called The Islands. This Brittany community is strategically sited, bound by Molino-Paliparan Highway and Governor’s Drive in Cavite. The Caribbean, of course, is the archipelago south of Florida cradled by warm seas kissed by sun and wind, shaped by European, African and native cultural influences, known for its embrace and celebration of life that often finds expression in exuberant colors and lively musical beats like the calypso.

The Islands of Brittany, located on 150 sprawling hectares of prime land, are a tropical haven, epitomizing laid-back, unhurried luxury amid bright sunshine, fresh breezes, living greenery and wide-open spaces (with an uncommon space-to-development ratio of 55 : 45), a perfect setting for the elegant tropical residences nestled there.

The latest of these residences is the just-launched Dianella model. With interiors designed by the much-sought after team of sisters, Ivy and Cynthia Almario, Dianella is an impressive centerpiece, befitting a Caribbean-influenced "lifescape."

Boasting a spacious floor area of 240 sq.m., Dianella is the third model residence at The Islands, after Aristhea (210 sq.m. floor area) and Alpinia (170 sq.m. floor area). Dianella’s exteriors are a cheerful, warm, muted orange, highlighted by white shutters and a second-floor balcony on the left side outside the master’s bedroom. The appearance is one that promises comfortable and delightful island living for its privileged residents.

The promise seen in Dianella’s exteriors is substantiated in the Almario-designed interiors, reflecting refreshing innovations in the sisters’ approach. Cynthia Almario notes that Dianella’s design is inspired by Florida’s Palm Beach, more refined and sophisticated yet retaining the joyful spirit of its Caribbean origins. The living room walls are rendered in an exquisite celery green, creating a happy, restful ambiance, with a high ceiling and indoor shutters on windows. The bedrooms each have their motifs, such as the master’s suite with its air reminiscent of a tropical vacation hideaway.

All the rooms feature handsome, white wooden shutters on their windows, an element of Caribbean architectural design dictated by the climate which is similar at The Islands. The shutters, on top of their aesthetic value, double as window treatment, for easier maintenance since there are no fabrics to wash or dry-clean. Plus the shutters have a function role, since these can be opened to let in air especially at night, in lieu of air-conditioning. The attention to detail is very much in evidence in the interior accessories and fabrics which impart an authentic Palm Beach feel, including lamps, hat boxes and pieces of luggage with travel stamps.

Dianella is the piéce de résistance that completes The Islands. Beyond being the showpiece that it is, this is a residence very much meant to be lived in. For previews of Dianella at The Islands, call 850-6986 and 850-2868 or visit www.brittany.com.ph.