Part One
FOR the first time in history, more than half the world’s population lives in cities. At a time when family, friends and coworkers are a call, text, or e-mail away, 3.3 billion people on this planet still choose to crowd together in skyscrapers, high-rises, subways and buses.
Not too long ago, it looked like our cities were dying, but in fact they boldly threw themselves into the information age, adapting and evolving to become the gateways to a globalized and interconnected world.
Now more than ever, the well-being of human society depends upon our knowledge of how the city lives and breathes,” said Edward Glaeser.
When I spoke to Buds Wenceslao about which part of Aseana he’ll have his eldest daughter Annika live in, I knew he was committed, Hand to heart to make Aseana not just the entertainment capital of Manila but also a truly liveable city.
According to Buds, CEO of DM Wenceslao, “We are building a city…a city within a city within a megacity.” Aseana City is a 107-hectare mixed-use development situated between the Mall of Asia Complex and the Pagcor Entertainment City. Through DM Wenceslao and Associates Inc. (DMWAI), various value-enhancing projects have made Aseana City a global central business hub worthy to be called, the “Next Generation City.” What felt like an eternal dream ages ago was nothing compared to the progressing and resounding successes of Aseana City throughout the years. Residential and commercial pipeline projects were one by one coming into fruition and the once perspective images displayed in their showroom are now tangible office, commercial and living spaces.
Walkability and connectivity
An urban fabric weaved along the threads of connectivity and walkability, Aseana City provides improved and wider pedestrians for its citizens. As the famous movie quote goes, “build it and they will come.” Research suggests that people will purposely and actively walk if a facility is provided for them hence, resulting to a happier and healthier community. DMWAI developed sidewalks that are protected from the harsh environment such as too much exposure from the sun and the sudden downpour of rain through its network of arcades and canopies. Carefully studied by both internal and external experts in urban planning development, buildings in Aseana City design guidelines include provisions for the construction and installation of canopies and sky bridges creating a connected climate protected solution to its pedestrian citizens.
Walkability experience is also upgraded with public art such as a recent creative mural found between the alleyway of Aseana Two Building and the Red Planet Hotel.
The 1,900-square-foot mural by visual artist Kris Abrigo depicts the growth that has transpired throughout the development of Aseana City. The painting is populated by an array of marine life representing the different types of people residing, living and populating the city. In the future, more public art will be seen around the city creating a sense of place and destination and adding vibrancy and life to its citizens’ daily hustle.
Residential offerings
Aseana City continues to progress beyond with the addition of residential developments under Aseana Residential Holdings Corp., the residential arm of DMWAI. Excitingly concluding ARHC’s 2019 was the turn-over ceremony for the 170 units of Pixel Residences, the first residential project of the company. An interesting exterior concept was used for its pixel-patterned façade. The project was designed by international design firm, Spark Architects, in collaboration with renowned local architecture firm, CASAS+Architects. The interiors highlight the playful use of wood elements and natural travertine stone with elegant lighting fixtures that appeal to a quirky yet modern design. The 5th floor amenity areas which have a youthful punch include the function room, day care, fitness gym, and pool, all having a wide view of the famous Manila Bay sunset. Surprising more its new owners are premium fixtures under top-tier brands that were added to the turned over units. And although Pixel Residences looks quaint on the outside, this residential development has large living formats ranging from 36 to 90 square meters of studio up to two-bedroom units providing comfortable breathing spaces for bachelors and early nesters alike. The 15-story, low-density residential development which was launched in 2016 had its entire inventory sold in less than a year stunning the real-estate competition with their first successful venture in residential development.
Image credits: Vincent Coscolluela