MANILA, Philippines - Minimalism, which was first introduced in the ‘60s, was partly influenced by Oriental traditions of Zen and feng shui that shun clutter. This style of interior design used to be described as austere, with its predominantly geometric elements and lack of colors.
But The Beacon shows that there are ways of making minimalism more livable without losing its modern appeal. With renowned interior designer Isabel Berenguer-Asuncion of Asuncion-Berenguer Inc., this residential-resort development reinvented the concept of “clutter-free living” into a cozy living space with sleek looks and maximized space.
“This design highlights a livable, relaxing place, which is easy to maintain,” explains Berenguer. “It also has a realistic approach which is ideal for the dynamic lifestyle of modern urban dwellers. It is devoid of intricate furnishings and other ornaments which make it complicated for the owner.”
This approach is evident in the color schemes of The Beacon’s two-bedroom units. Asuncion veered away from traditional colors associated with minimalism of black and white. Today’s new styles play with more hues from the color palette. For the units, she opted to stick with the palest of shades that they are almost like neutral colors, but more exciting.
The execution of these design concepts can be viewed at their model units at The Beacon Makati showroom at Don Chino Roces Ave, corner Arnaiz Ave., Makati City. They convey ideas on how buyers can use only few but modern and functional furniture to enliven their units. Mirrors strategically mounted in the living room walls give an illusion of expansiveness. A spattering of bold colors is not a breach of the concept. So does using textures. The key is to use them thoughtfully and sparingly, like the lampshades in the living room, the throw pillows or the frames on the wall.
The interiors of the model units were conceptualized with the active, modern lifestyle of its residents in mind. Its developer Geo Estate Development Corp. veered away from designs that require heavy upkeep. “We do not want to design a very complicated dwelling that will compel homeowners to spend a lot of money for upkeep,” said Wai Ming Wong, vice president for product development group at Geo Estate. “But we know the severe ambience of traditional minimalism is not appealing either. So we created a design that is stripped down to basics and yet, a comfortable place to live in.”
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.
The Beacon is comprised of three towers that were named after the roads where they are located. Majority of the Roces Tower units are already primed for turnover to buyers. The Arnaiz Tower is currently under construction. The last building, the Amorsolo Tower, will soon rise from its spot in one of Makati’s bustling roads. Pre-selling of units is now ongoing.
For more information, visit www.thebeacon.com.ph.