Cover The bedroom layout at the Elise house is intimately personal, enabled by its roots in brutalism (Photo: courtesy of VCDC)
The bedroom layout at the Elise house is intimately personal, enabled by its roots in brutalism (Photo: courtesy of VCDC)
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VCDC
The house models of M Residences Katipunan embrace the bold and modernity of brutalism
Solid, strong and firm— these words aptly describe the powerful architectural style of Brutalism. It is often noted for its austere quality, yet it also possesses an understated versatility and potential for change. In the right hands, it can act as a blank canvas, changing to suit the preferences and needs of its homeowners. Victor Consunji Development Corporation (VCDC) uses this in commanding fashion at M Residences Katipunan, setting the tone for modern living within a vibrant community.
Brutalism, notable for its use of concrete and sharp geometric forms, first emerged in postwar Europe during the 1950s. National Artist for Architecture Leandro V Locsin embraced this style with significant effect, as seen in the Philippine International Convention Center, the National Theater and more. It has since seen a resurgence in residential and commercial spaces, a testament to its timelessness.
More like this: Behind the Façade: What lies beneath ‘The Brutalist’
Above The configuration of the Kiara house and its cleanly defined shapes allow it to respond to the discerning homeowner’s needs (Photo: courtesy of VCDC)
The configuration of the Kiara house and its cleanly defined shapes allow it to respond to the discerning homeowner’s needs (Photo: courtesy of VCDC)
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M Residences Katipunan is a distinct departure from its previous minimalist and tropical aesthetic style. “By utilising a modern form of Brutalism, we are transforming each M Residences home into a timeless architectural masterpiece that offers a unique and elevated expression of luxury,” architect Dan Lichauco of Archion Architects explains. It is important that our homes are built to last, to ensure our children and grandchildren have a place to call their own.
Thus, durability is paramount. The three house models of M Residences Katipunan—Aerin, Elise and Kiara—use fortified concrete, which effortlessly conveys strength and longevity. Adding lighter accents, such as white walls and natural wood textures, provides contrast and balance throughout each one. The brilliant use of sculptural elements and the aforementioned geometric forms translates into a breathtakingly contemporary design, in line with the discerning homeowner’s sophisticated lifestyle. This is further enhanced by the large windows, generous space and sliding doors, which allow plenty of natural light and cool air to pass through its interiors.
See more: Home tour: a family’s art-filled penthouse in Makati, Metro Manila that exudes tranquil minimalism
Above The exterior of Kiara house combines the geometric forms of Brutalism with softer touches of white and wooden accents (Photo: courtesy of VCDC)
The exterior of Kiara house combines the geometric forms of Brutalism with softer touches of white and wooden accents (Photo: courtesy of VCDC)
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Despite their seeming rigidity, these concepts are deceptively versatile. Each layout can be customised as the homeowner sees fit, giving them the agency to design a distinctly personal home. Clients can freely choose from these three home types with various configurations, then adjust room dimensions, fixtures and finishes that appeal to and resonate with them.
“The concrete materials offer an advantage in that they can be cast in any shape,” VCDC founder and CEO Victor Consunji explains. “This makes it easier for a space to evolve over time in harmony with the changing needs and preferences of our M Residents.”
This philosophy extends throughout the entire development. The central lifestyle club ties together the swimming pool, basketball court, jogging trail and residents’ lounge within one singular structure. The exposed structural forms and liberal pathways resemble the homes around it, making it a cohesive part of the community.
Form and function seamlessly intertwine at M Residences Katipunan. The thoughtful choice of Brutalism as its main medium offers its residents a modern style of living in the city. It is a symbol of strength and functionality that leaves plenty of room for adjustments to suit one’s way of life.
Book a private tour at m-residences.com to see the possibilities of Brutalist architecture, right at home in M Residences Katipunan.
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About
Tobias wants to write things that make people think, laugh, and reflect. He’s especially proud when he can sneak in a cheeky pop-culture reference or a pun in his titles and articles.
He possesses a deep love of history, resulting from years of books, games, and museum visits. It was this fascination with the human endeavour that fostered his love of writing, spanning genres, tones, and moods. He one day hopes to write a novel—he just hasn't decided on a genre yet. A certified homebody, you'll often find him on the computer he built himself, binge-watching Seinfeld or House, playing his favourite gacha game, or reading a book.
Work
Tobias is a features writer that specialises in branded content. Reach out to him at tobias.tomas@tatlerasia.com.
