Modern Zen sanctuary

A serene, Modern Zen sanctuary is fast rising. While it’s definitely close to the metropolis, it’s not too near that the deafening noise, the hustle and bustle of Metro Manila can still be felt. The driving distance to this neighborhood is just right, and this preserves the site’s distinct, tranquil atmosphere. The country’s first Modern Zen themed community will soon rise in a place that maintains the feel of the suburbs yet offers a city-like lifestyle.

Aptly named Tokyo Mansions after the highly cosmopolitan capital of the Land of the Rising Sun, this premier neighborhood is now taking shape at South Forbes Golf City in Metro Sta. Rosa. It will feature two Zen sanctuaries that will give sophisticated individuals and families a first look at the serene lifestyle.

Meiji will rise at a corner lot facing the Tokyo Mansions clubhouse. This inverted L-shaped mansion features a strikingly simple yet elegant design from the outside. Shingles and wooden rafters give it a Zen character, while tall bamboos line up across the living room to lend the mansion a rural effect.

The Yamato, however, is strikingly subdued. As you drive to it, a gracefully curved roof and a blank white wall make you curious about what could be inside. Your curiosity will be rewarded once you open the door, however. A curved roof at the living room rises to 20 feet, and a clerestory window allows an unobscured view of the heavens night or day.

This mansion’s layout gives the residents a sense of having their own private space, whatever the activity. The service quarters are to the right of the living room, while the bedrooms are to the left. At the center are a lanai and an infinity pool, both of which are good vantage points to observe a creek and a virgin forest on the horizon. A rock garden beside the pool is another perfect place for some form of meditation.

The interiors of Meiji and Yamato offer a fresh take on the trendsetting atmosphere of Tokyo in this part of the world as creatively rendered by top Interior designers Ivy and Cynthia Almario. A Minotti style white sofa at Meiji contrasts against the white walls and dark wood frames of the floor-to-ceiling windows. The master’s bedroom prominently displays a suspended plasma TV that doubles as a divider. Calming the mind after a hard day’s work will be easy at the master’s bath, which features an ultra luxurious jacuzzi.

The living room of the Yamato features croissant sofas inspired by the collection of Filipino designer Kenneth Cobonpue. The master’s bedroom’s showcase pieces are the Zen bed and the oversized lamps that double as accent pieces for the headboard. Drapes adorn the floor-to-ceiling glass walls and give the couple a sense of privacy.

As a hallmark of this Zen community, the Tokyo Mansions Clubhouse elevates the meaning of tranquility. A three-level infinity pool offers residents and their guests a chance to relax, while away the time, and let nature envelop their minds. Hear the wind in action as the branches of the forest’s trees rustle. Listen as birds sing to their hearts’ delight. Climb the four-storey view deck and have a clearer picture not just of this rising city but of your life.

Once you choose Tokyo Mansions as your prime address, you get one big bonus that will balance your work and life. Get your free membership to the world-class, 18-hole South Forbes Golf Club for every lot purchase at Tokyo Mansions. This free membership will also be your family’s passport to golf, tennis, and other leisure activities worldwide through the exclusive golf club of IMG SportsClub. The South Forbes Golf Club was designed by no other than Asia’s leading golf course designer, the International Management Group (IMG).

To experience serenity year-round at Tokyo Mansions with your entire family, call 635-8108 or 636-4647 or click www.southforbes.com.