Savoring French landscaping

The French can rightfully claim that they lead the world over in the fields of beauty and fashion. Top French brands are renowned for their creativity and artistry. Soon, their idea of beauty will have one more important import in the country in the arena of landscaping.

Filipinos will have a first glimpse of the prowess of French landscaping design in the country’s first world-class golf resort city: South Forbes Golf City in Metro Sta. Rosa. Its newest project, Châteaux de Paris, not only features modern French castles but landscaping elements inspired by the French capital. Cathay Land president Jeffrey Ng promised future residents: "Members of this privileged community will live among sprawling gardens reminiscent of Paris’ landscaped parks and colorful flower pallette."

The whole landscaping experience starts at the main gate of Châteaux de Paris. It is a colorful, wide open expanse. At the center are a fountain and a high pitched roof that makes up the guard house. At both ends are modern walkways, details derived from the façade of the Châteaux de Paris Grand Clubhouse. Of course, colorful flowers and shrubs immediately lend a romantic atmosphere.

The landscaping for the entire property reinterprets 18th century French garden design traditions during the reign of King Louis XIV. Gardens during his time were often characterized by grandeur, built to impress and showcase a high degree of wealth and power — very much something to be desired even to this day.

As such, this South Forbes project features French allée or alleys bordered by trees or clipped hedges. Allees intersect in acute angles and if viewed from above resemble a goose-foot, much like the master plan of Paris if viewed from a helicopter. The allees, along with the canals and reflecting pools, not only lend a strong visual effect but also make it easy for residents to go to the nearest pocket park or even the clubhouse for a lovely time with family and friends.

From the main gate, the first visible feature will be The Clock Tower, the centerpiece of The Grand Garden at the very center of the property. From The Grand Garden, four different allees radiate out towards the four main project features. Two reflection ponds and beautiful gardens border The Clock Tower, from which Châteaux de Paris residents can watch over their dominion.

The four other landmarks are just as elegant. The allee North of The Grand Garden ends at The French Pavilion, a circular dome bordered by formal rows of trees. It offers ample seats and benches for residents to while away the time. The South allee leads towards The Theatre. This open space was inspired by French outdoor theaters common during the 18th century. It features an elevated platform wherein creative performances can be staged by families to the delight of their neighbors.

The East allee terminates at The Green Hall, which features a tree-lined hallway that leads towards a central water fountain and a feature wall. Its open lawns are targeted as multi-purpose spaces for recreation and play. An interesting feature, The Orangery, lies at the West allee’s end. It was inspired by the orangeries that cultivated the then exotic orange fruit from East Asia in the 18th century. Since the Philippines is in the tropical belt, The Orangery will likely feature the local citrus dayap.

The lush landscaping also plays an important role at the Châteaux de Paris Grand Clubhouse. An intricately laid out French garden, with a field of flowers, hedges and topiary, heightens the experience of a warm welcome. The lush landscaping and a magnificent fountain bring a refreshing feel… surely, any party will be remembered if held here.

"We are proud of the unique feeling that residents will experience with the elegant landscaping features of Châteaux de Paris. For us, this brings about our promise of a royal arrival everytime they go home. It definitely is a warm reception," Ng emphasized.

To experience the beautiful landscaping of Châteaux de Paris and to know more about the free golf membership offered exclusively to all South Forbes residents, simply call 635-7777 or 631-8855 or visit www.southforbes.com.