MANILA, Philippines - Maintenance is one major issue why some people opt for high-rise living instead of investing in a house and lot. The size of a house plus the lot area requires enough funds and a lot of effort to keep it in a nifty condition. In comparison, a cozier condominium unit with simple designs entails minimum maintenance.
“That’s why The Beacon was designed with a simple, almost minimalist architecture,” points out Wai Ming Wong, vice president for product development group at Geo Estate Development Corporation (GeoEstate). GeoEstate is the property development and management company behind the monumental high-rise residential project called The Beacon.
“We do not want to design a very complicated dwelling that will compel homeowners to spend a lot of money for upkeep,” he adds.
The building uses clean geometric lines inside and out, giving it a sleek look. The dominant hue is clean white punctuated with dark-colored details and woodwork from the ceiling to the flooring. The aim is to achieve both style and functionality.
The simple architecture and interior design can go both ways: it can cater to the tastes of residents who prefer minimalism or serve as a blank canvass to those who want to inject their own personal style to their homes.
All units were also built with higher ceilings. “The floor-to-ceiling height is much higher than a regular condo,” Wong reports. “The usual ceiling height of other condominiums is 2.6 meters. The Beacon has at least 2.75 meters.” High ceilings provide better ventilation as it allows air to circulate more freely. It also creates an illusion of bigger space.
Meanwhile the beautiful vista makes up for the simplicity of The Beacon’s uncomplicated architecture. The three towers that comprise the whole project are positioned in a way that there is an unobstructed view of the Makati Skyline, Laguna or Manila Bay, depending on what tower their units are located.
These beautiful sceneries can be better appreciated with The Beacon’s sizable windows. “If you notice from the Roces Tower our windows are much bigger than the regular, traditional condo windows,” Wong says. Apart from giving a good view of different parts of the Metropolis and adjacent countryside, huge windows let in more natural light. This somewhat contributes to lessening of ecological footprints of the residents by helping minimize their energy consumption.
The large windows, however, do not compromise safety as only a portion is operational. “If you see the windows only a small fraction can be opened, not the whole thing. This is to ensure the safety of residents with small kids,” he explains.
He adds, “Also at a certain height the wind is very strong. It takes only a small opening to let in cooling breeze.”
The simplicity of the building’s design highlights the elegance of the finishing and fixtures within. The kitchen counter is furnished with a state-of-the-art induction plate matched by a built-in range hood. The gleaming countertop is made from solid surfacing, a granite reproduction that is more durable and stain-resistant.
The elegant bathrooms boast of high-end water closets, shower enclosure and chrome fixtures. The water closets used are the luxe, one-piece type. The stylish shower enclosure went through rigid testing for leakage while the fixtures were tested for its rust-resistant qualities.
The flooring of the main area is comprised of classy white homogeneous tiles which are non-porous and resistant to stain. The bedroom floors use third generation-engineered bamboo which is both aesthetic and functional.
“The idea here is to maximize a small area to create a living space that is simple yet stylish and effective,” says Daniel Gomez Jr., executive director for Logistics. “We were able to achieve all that in The Beacon.”
The Beacon is touted as the aspirational residential resort situated at the center of bustling Makati. It is a walk away from major commercial and recreational establishments as well as the city’s central business district, schools, hospitals and churches.
While providing convenience for urban dwellers, The Beacon likewise serves as a sanctuary for rest and relaxation to its residents with its luxurious amenities such as a 450 square meter lap pool with two lap lanes in the center, a Meditation Garden, a bi-level fitness center for gym enthusiasts and a 20-seater private theater furnished with state-of-the-art equipment. It also has a kiddie pool for the young tots and a 300-meter long jogging trail with exercise stations in its three stops.
For information, visit www.thebeacon.com.ph or call 401-2881/402-2882.