Atelier Almario, Dan Lichauco give us a taste of Thailand
MANILA, Philippines - Phuket Mansions, the Thai paradise of South Forbes Golf City, the country’s largest fully integrated and all-themed golf resort city at the heart of the Metro Sta. Rosa-Tagaytay corridor, and recipient of the Best Golf Community Development title by the CNBC International Property Awards, the world’s most prestigious property awards program, was inspired by the beauty and luxury of the pearl of the Andaman Sea, offering a stylish range of homes for every family and providing a safe, comfortable place to retreat, refresh and restore.
One of the main things that impress residents and guests is how close they are to the splendor of nature. From the entrance alone, towering trees, vibrant flowers, and high-pitched roofs immediately recall the Thai island paradise that is Phuket. The guardhouse is a small glass structure with curtains made of bamboo stalks for that Asian feel. The carpet of black natural stones paves the way from the gate to the clubhouse at the end of the main avenue. The village wall of river stones hint of coming home to a tropical resort.
The Ayutthaya bungalow, designed by prominent architect Dan Lichauco, remains faithful to the true Thai tropical resort setting with a pavilion-type layout surrounded by reflecting pools and lush flora. Retirees, for one, will surely spend their twilight years here in the lap of luxury.
With reflecting pools surrounding each pavilion and a swimming pool at the back, every part of the house becomes the perfect place to spend lazy afternoons and serene nights.
The contemporary Chakri mansion is the biggest house to accommodate the needs of a more mature family, especially those with teenagers. Chakri, which is known as the royal house of Thailand, has more space for each family member to grow and move in — in tune with the demands of the modern world.
Its interiors were designed by the dynamic sisters Ivy and Cynthia Almario, whose vision for the house was to transform it into a home suitable for a royal family. Throughout the house, the woodcarvings used were sourced from the marketplaces of Thailand. Whether artfully framed or silver-leafed, they all contribute to making a stunning impact against the white walls of the house. One can clearly see the living and dining areas, both sharing the same color scheme of coral and turquoise, purposefully chosen to allude to the rich jewel-toned silk fabrics that Thailand is so famous for. In fact, 90 percent of the fabrics used were purchased in Bangkok.
The traditional Taksin home welcomes new or young families whose desire is to build a home in a relaxed environment. It is spacious and comfortable where the double-volume living area extends to an open-planned dining-kitchen area, and the master suite occupies one side of the home. Spending time soaking at the cool private pool adjoining a tropical garden backyard is perfect before retiring for the night.
Dark wood and bright orange tones act as a counterpoint to the light hues of the walls, floors, and ceiling. Images of natural elements spread throughout the house suggest of the natural environment extending even within the house.
A remarkable amenity for all Phuket residents is the recently completed village clubhouse, conceptualized by master of minimalism, architect Ed Ledesma, which blends well with the natural environment. Its high-pitched roof is its most prominent element as it has always been the defining feature of classical Thai architecture.
The infinity-edge swimming pool has a stunning view that exudes an atmosphere of quiet elegance. Pavilion-style gazebos, outdoor showers, reflecting pools and a sunbathing deck hark back to a Phuket weekend experience.
The anchor of the whole development is the centerpiece world-class 18-hole South Forbes Golf and Leisure Club where membership comes free with every lot or condominium unit purchase at no activation cost.
And should club members visit Thailand, they can drop by and play golf at the Laguna Phuket Golf Course with their privileged access and special discounts through South Forbes’ affiliation with the IMG Sports Club.
For inquiries, call 635-7777 or 631-8855 for a free city tour or log on to www.southforbes.com.
