Masterplanned waterfront living now in RP

Eton Properties Philippines Inc., the property arm of the Lucio Tan Group of companies, is set to launch the first residential island lot development in the country called the South Lake Village. South Lake Village is the initial development within Eton City, a world-class development that is set to rise in the rapidly developing Sta. Rosa area in Laguna.

Hailed as “The Makati of the South”, part of Eton City’s masterplan is the creation of a mixed-use township project that would seamlessly integrate residential, commercial, recreational, and institutional centers to form one vibrant community.

As the centerpiece of this ambitious project, South Lake Village shall provide for the first island community development in the country. Occupying 150 hectares of the almost 1,000-hectare Eton City project, South Lake Village is set to bring the concept of waterfront living to Philippine shores.

“One of the trends in the real estate industry today is developing waterfront properties and promoting waterfront living. In countries like Thailand, Singapore, Australia and the US, areas near water are considered prime property,” said Arch. Nestor Mangio, Eton Properties’ partner in conceptualizing South Lake Village.

“This project was actually inspired by the waterfront developments in Dubai such as Jumeirah, The Palm and The World, as well as the waterfront communities in the U.S. like San Francisco and Orange County,” he added.

South Lake Village is not like any ordinary community. This development features 18 residential islands that’s surrounded by a 35-hectare man-made lake. Each island, approximately one hectare in size, will have 6 to 12 residential lots ranging from 600 to 1,000 square meters each. The islands will be connected to the mainland through roads, and are highly exclusive and secure. Only kayaks and electric boats will be allowed to preserve the lake, and residents can have their own private dock.

To find out more about Eton City and South Lake Village, log on to www.etoncity.com.ph.

Huge lake more than a visual amenity

In South Lake Village, nature serves not just as an accent but as the focus of the entire development. “The open space comprises 47% of the area,” related Arch. Brian Mangio, Arch. Nestor Mangio’s son and the firm’s managing partner. “We have 11 kilometers of waterfront, and a sizeable area of the development will be devoted to parks. Because of our choice location, you can enjoy views of Laguna de Bay and Mount Makiling — and of course a great view of the lakeside.”

More greenery is provided by playgrounds, tree-lined roads, linear parks along the river and lake-view corridors. More open spaces mean more breathing space, and definitely greener views. The lake itself is not just for beautification; in fact, residents can enjoy various recreational water activities right in their community. “They can go sailing, or take their boat to the country club,” Arch. Nestor said. “They can even go fishing – we have filtering systems and aerators to ensure a healthy ecosystem in the water,” added the younger Mangio.

“Green architecture”

To match the relaxed, resort-like atmosphere of the project, father and son suggested a contemporary Asian architectural theme. “Such an architectural design will go well with the climate here,” said Arch. Brian. “We will also be using the principles of green architecture and sustainability in the project; and design structures with the windows facing south and north so there’s less heat,” shared Arch. Nestor.

Being a licensed urban or environmental planner, Arch. Nestor Mangio also ensures that the vision for South Lake Village coincides with the overall plan for Eton City. “While this area is touted as the Makati of the South, we plan to create a more relaxing environment – it’s like countryside living with all the urban amenities,” explained Arch. Nestor. Thus, amenities such as the 2.2-hectare South Lake Sports and Country Club, which will be replete with sports facilities; plus a world-class golf course, as well as a commercial strip with shopping and dining areas, will be developed within Eton City as well.

The residents’ security is also taken into concern during the designing of South Lake Village. “Each enclave is gated with entrance and exit points guarded. We will also be using the latest security equipment to ensure that this will be a highly secure and safe environment,” Arch. Brian, the younger Mangio related.

With such a unique and innovative living concept waiting future residents, combining resort living with urban conveniences, it is no wonder that South Lake Village is set to become a true suburban paradise.