Walkability continues to be an attractive value proposition for property seekers or owners who want a hassle-free lifestyle.
As cities in the Philippines become increasingly congested by the day, more people are drawn to the idea of living in walkable neighborhoods, where almost everything is just a few steps away. Because of this, mixed-use buildings and communities remain a trend in the real estate industry.
The concept of mixed-use development has been around for quite some time, but it is largely visible in densely populated Metro Manila. Among the developments typical in the region are high-rise buildings that are sold or leased to both individuals and businesses. This type of mixed-use development is common in cities where developable land is limited, as such limits has meant having to using real estate of more than one purpose..
In recent years, horizontal mixed-use developments have also begun to emerge in areas near Metro Manila, and even those beyond, as land availability outside the big cities can better accommodate such projects. The goal of horizontal mixed-use developments is to create a neighborhood that brings comfort and convenience to residents. Further, walkable communities are considered the answer for the worsening transportation problem in the country.
Benefits of Walkable Neighborhoods
Aside from easing the burden of daily commutes, mixed-use developments are also seen as good for the environment because residents no longer need to depend on their cars or public transport to go to different establishments. These types of projects also typically support urban greening, further contributing to creating a cleaner and more sustainable environment.
As shared by Manny Blas during Lamudi Philippines’ The Outlook event last November: “When you put together a development…wherein it is mixed-use, wherein everything is there, where you live, where you work, where you shop…when everything is accessible by walking, when everything is pedestrian friendly—that development by itself as a platform is sustainable.”
Blas, VP and Estate Head of Makati and Bonifacio Global City for Ayala Land further elaborated on how being sustainable is not just about being green. “We miss the fact that township development, by itself, as a platform, is a sustainable approach. When you got something like that, you know going from your 15th floor condominium unit down to the ground floor to eat instead of taking a car, by itself, leads to sustainability.”
This kind of development also helps address the challenge of decentralizing Metro Manila. Relocating offices outside the metropolis used to be a major concern for businesses, but with the emergence of mixed-use developments in nearby cities or provinces, companies are able to benefit from a more productive talent pool and the accessible location.
Taking Mixed-Use Developments into the Future
At the previously mentioned The Outlook event, Lamudi recognized the top developers that contributed to the growth of mixed-use development in the country by way of 10,000-strong user survey. Ayala Land Inc. (ALI), the overall winner, was recognized because of the immense popularity of its Nuvali estate in Laguna. Touted as the first and largest eco-city development in the Philippines, Nuvali consists of residential communities, retail and office spaces, educational institutions, and recreational complexes, spanning a total of 2,290 hectares. The Ayala Land development redefines the lifestyle of residents, especially families, by establishing houses, corporate centers, schools, and malls within one’s reach, so they can have more quality time.
Featured in Lamudi‘s The Outlook Report 2017, the complementary publication to the event, were the other nominated developers, namely Megaworld Corp., SM Prime Holdings, and Filinvest Land. McKinley Hill, a Megaworld township development in Metro Manila, lives up to its signature concept of “live, work, play, learn, and shop.” Situated at The Fort, McKinley Hill is known for its elegant surroundings and high-end amenities.
What sets McKinley Hill apart from other mixed-use developments in the country is its European-inspired architecture. Its version of Venice’s Grand Canal is a popular sightseeing spot. McKinley Hill also houses a world-class football field, prestigious international schools, and luxury condominiums.
Meanwhile, the MOA Complex, developed by SM Prime Holdings, is strategically located at the center of entertainment and commerce in Metro Manila. The development is home to three SMDC condominiums (i.e., Shore, Shell, and Sea Residences), the SM Mall of Asia, and office buildings that cater to BPO companies.
Mixing Use Outside the Metro
Mixed-use developments are also rising in the Visayas region, particularly in Cebu. Mactan Newtown is a recent addition to Megaworld’s growing mixed-use development portfolio. It is an ideal home for people who want to balance work and play. The resort-inspired community includes condominiums, office towers, retail shops, and, of course, a soon-to-open beach club.
Filinvest Land has a township development in Cebu, the City di Mare. The 50-hectare coastal township is a joint venture project of Filinvest Land and the Cebu City government, with the aim of becoming the lifestyle capital of Cebu. The development project boasts residential resort communities and commercial establishments. It is also located near schools, business centers, and the Cebu International Airport.
Images via Deposit Photos
