Award-winning houses

Today, modern homes in the Philippines, in one way or another, adhere to a certain international style, more evident in homes in themed developments. In fact, with the Filipinos’ knack for designing their own homes and their individual desire to be distinct, there have been impressive variations on homes while still remaining faithful to a specified theme.

The fully-integrated and all-themed South Forbes Golf City at the forefront of the booming Metro Sta. Rosa – Tagaytay corridor has received international acclaim by the 2007 CNBC International Property Awards, the world’s most prestigious property awards programme, as Best Golf Community Development for the unique planning and design of its Residential Cluster, especially the model homes.

“The designs of our model units, both exteriors and interiors, are perhaps the best in the industry for we have taken the extra mile into creating masterpieces where our clients will experience the best of a featured country and lifestyle while incorporating Filipino sensibilities,” said Cathay Land president Jeffrey Ng.

Practical Zen. Arriving at the Edo unit in Tokyo Mansions is like a healing journey with the Japanese garden of plants and dry stones in front that creates a relaxing effect en route to the front door. Upon entering, the double-volume and open-planned living-dining-kitchen areas, combined with soothing whites, allow one to shed off every ounce of fatigue or stress. Even the dark wood of the furniture and architectural elements as well as the reds and greens of accent pieces seamlessly blend in with the whole space.

The narra-clad flight of stairs is an elegant transition from the common areas to each family member’s private bedroom on the second level. The master’s bedroom is designed for a well-traveled couple. The patterns on the ceiling hints of tradition, akin to Japanese weaving. A lounge chair and ottoman beside the window is perfect for some reading before retiring for the night. The children’s bedrooms are the exclusive spaces for a jovial older sister and an active younger brother.

Zen-lightenment. The Meiji model mansion is simply poetic where quiet nobility and restrained elegance is achieved through its minimalist design. The manner in which it combines interior design and exterior views of controlled landscaping is owed to a wall of full-height glass panels that envelop practically the whole house. The ground level, totally open yet can be made private with sliding screens, is literally a showroom of world-class furniture and art pieces.

The master suite on the second level is the private haven of the homeowner. Sisal floor matting that mimic tatami creates a genuine Japanese ambience that encourages walking barefoot or with slippers on the soft surface. The other bedrooms intended for the children are incredibly flexible to accommodate guests or other uses.

French Flair. The Fontainebleau unit in Châteaux de Paris reflects a more sophisticated and urbane lifestyle — a house fit for royalty. Sculptural art pieces, cut plants and flowers make entering the house pleasant and warm. The living room is magnificent with its double-storey volume that allows natural light into the space. The dining room was inspired by the green houses present in most French Country villas where doors open to the garden.

The whole second floor was designed with common and private spaces where the family can grow together enjoying each other’s company while allowing them enough personal space for individual moments. Inspired by the small French hotels, the master’s bedroom is quaint with subtle touches of a vibrant red, adding interest and spice to the room. Indeed, c’est la vie!

Move in right here, right now. Call 635-7777 or 631-8855 for a free city tour and a complimentary round of golf.