Taking a shot at beauty

When beauty beckons, we follow. That’s why even babies’ eyes are instinctively drawn to the more beautiful face or object even before they have been conditioned to admire stereotypes. (That particular experiment showed that beauty isn’t just in the eye of the beholder – it’s innately in the object being beheld.)

That’s why our eyes light up at the vision of a magnificent sunset and a spectacular mountain view, at Brad Pitt or Catherine Zeta-Jones (for the men). Or why we cross continents to see the Mona Lisa and the murals of the Sistine Chapel. People want to bask in the presence of beauty. And photographers want to capture and preserve it in all its glory as a tangible memory.

So it was no surprise that five of the Philippines’ finest lensmen (most of whom I have been privileged to work with) accepted the invitation of maverick real estate developer Brittany Corp. to photograph its choice properties, which can only be described as "beautiful."

Under the knowing gaze of premier photographers Bien Bautista, Jun de Leon (whom I proudly say took my photo for this column), George Tapan, Wig Tysmans and Romy Vitug, Brittany Corp.’s master-planned communities like Brittany Bay, Portofino, Georgia Club, Caribe at The Islands and CrossWinds became the star of an intense day-long photo shoot. The results are some of the most breathtaking images of any local property ever taken.

"While this has never been done before, it does not come as a surprise that it came to be. After all, where there is beauty, photographers cannot be too far away," said Brittany Corp. president Jing Serrano.

"Beauty can only come from within," said Jing Serrano. "Our properties are beautiful precisely because everything we put into it is beautiful, too. Our people are very passionate and committed to churning out only the best. The craftsmanship of every element is guided by the principles of excellence. Even the landscaping is taken care of by a resident horticulturist who not only takes care of the greenery but ensures that each property remains distinct and in keeping with its respective theme."

A Swiss Escape with George

In between island and country hopping, travel photographer extraordinaire George Tapan visited Tagaytay to visit CrossWinds.

A Swiss-themed weekend retreat, CrossWinds’ distinctive architecture incorporates various elements such as overhanging eaves, wood patterns, and wide balconies set against the lush landscape of Tagaytay. It offers single-detached residences, Swiss Quadrilles, the Grand Quartier and Deux Pointe, all of which are designed to cater to the needs of the weekend warrior.

George, who has been to Switzerland, readily agrees that the property successfully evoked the same ambience, not only through the architecture but with the pine trees.

Jun’s gorgeous Georgia tour

While Jun de Leon has yet to visit the southern state of Georgia, he says Brittany Corp.’s Georgia Club would do just fine.

Located in Sta. Rosa, Laguna, this gated enclave is inspired by the privileged lifestyle of the American South. Combining the old-world charm with the world-class development, the 30-hectare property recreates southern architecture through symmetrical facades, gabled roofs, high ceilings and distinct porches.

Jun zooms in on the natural beauty that surrounds Georgia Club, from the butterflies that flutter about in its lush gardens, to the stately trees that line its perimeter.

Bien’s reverie

A fascination for San Francisco’s laid-back, bohemian lifestyle and colorful neighborhoods is ultimately what lured Bien Bautista (whom I’ve watched at work from the comforts of his studio to the deserts and holy places of Israel, where he once did a photo shoot for Penshoppe) to Brittany Bay’s neo-Victorian themed community.

Its postcard perfect single-detached homes, pastel colored Victorianne Duettos and cozy Quadrilles ooze with charm and elegance. Bien likens the Victorianne’s beauty to the full moon’s irresistibly magnetic charm.

Wig says molto bene

The Portofino development reminded Wig Tysmans of seaside Italian towns and country villas in Tuscany and Umbria. Inspired by the romance of Italian living, Portofino is a 300-hectare development that consists of several communities.

In Wig’s travels along the massive development, he found that while all are Italian-inspired, each community has very distinct features that speak of charm, grandeur, and unparalleled beauty. His photo reveals Portofino as a window to la dolce vita.

Island Fever hits Romy

Without doubt, Romy Vitug and Caribe at The Islands were a perfect fit. Defining beauty through nature and the experience of its wonders, he lights up at the thought of a sunrise, rolling hills, and shimmering sea.

Romy focuses on Caribe at The Islands’ sprawling landscape carpeted by greens towards the horizon. This Caribbean-themed community takes inspiration from island resorts. It features single-story, sprawling homes intended for families who clearly believe in the pursuit of happiness in their everyday existence. Yup, happiness shouldn’t be reserved for weekends and holidays only!

(You may e-mail me at [email protected])