A Mediterranean summer at Brittany's Portofino

MANILA, Philippines - Dappled sunlight glints through the flowering bougainvillea, while birds chirp in the distance. It looks like something straight out of a scene from Under the Tuscan Sun, the chick flick starring Diane Lane. The film could’ve served as inspiration for the southern development by Brittany called Portofino, which is situated in what is now being called “the new Alabang.” Modeled after Mediterranean villas, complete with immaculately tended flowering gardens, the recently-developed community has earned accolades for its ability to realize its vision as the modern-day little Italy. Brittany, a maverick developer known for its upscale residential communities, prides itself on creating communities that withstand the test of time.

Divided into several enclaves, consisting of Portofino Heights, Portofino South and Amore at Portofino, each community evokes a laidback, rustic vibe that is in a class of its own. Homes, designed in the classical style common to Italian villas, are re-imagined in stucco and tile with palettes of rust and yellow and other autumn hues. It is here that you’ll find homes developed in Portofino’s signature style. The Courtyards of Portofino, for example, boasts a large central courtyard, allowing residents to bask in the rays of the summer sun.

Residents are encouraged to park their families at one of the amenity areas, like Monte di Portofino, where they can swim in an azure pool, done in the style of a Roman lap pool, or jog along a picturesque trail lined with flora and fauna. Function rooms at the clubhouse have played host to debuts, wedding receptions and birthday parties. A billiards hall and indoor badminton court complete the recreational facilities.

Children can romp in areas designed specifically for them — like the huge interactive play pool at Parco di Portofino, the amenity area located in Portofino South.

There will also be a soon-to-rise 15-hectare commercial expanse dubbed Mercato di Portofino, which will function as the community center. Here, residents can experience Italian living with cafes, restaurants and specialty shops designed in the traditional European style. Imagine al fresco dining, cobblestone steps and a warm, homey atmosphere. Already existing in the commercial area is Fernbrook Gardens, the sprawling fiberglass structure inspired by Russian architecture that is the favored location for weddings and special events.

At Amore, compact courtyards, made up of gardens and a fountain, create an intimate space between homes, providing a romantic ambience that’s normally found a plane ride away (yes, all the way to Italy).

It’s not unusual for residents of Portofino to find themselves sunning on the front lawn or enjoying an espresso at their own courtyard in the middle of the afternoon. After all, if you live somewhere that looks like an exotic destination, staycations are only a weekend away.

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For inquiries and property previews, please call 382-6573 or visit www.brittany.com.ph.