(Photo: Getty Images)
Cover (Photo: Getty Images)

In a recent exclusive virtual event hosted by Tatler in partnership with Rockwell South at Carmelray, a select group of attendees shared their personal motivations behind investing in a nature-filled home

While city living has its inexhaustible share of charms and benefits, the recent pandemic has made many of us rethink and realise the value of bigger spaces and lush nature. From the boom of plantitos and plantitas, endless house improvements, and even investments in real estate outside Manila — there’s a glaring trend of reinventing the needs for one’s home.  

As always, Tatler is dedicated to fostering communities with shared passions. For a virtual gathering celebrating home investments, lot owners of Rockwell South at Carmelray and design enthusiasts came together for a warm evening of engaging conversation. Hosted by Tatler Homes Philippines editor Stephanie Zubiri, the event began with a warm welcome from Tatler Managing Director, Irene Martel Francisco, who touched upon the value of investing in quality property from trusted names in the business. Among the esteemed guests that evening was Kat Yu, Senior Sales Executive for Rockwell South at Carmelray who shared a few words to set the tone for the evening.

See Also: How Does the Rockwell Community Foster a Sense of Belonging?

The event brought a lot of colourful insights about home renovation, the benefits of the outdoors, how to overcome construction challenges, and much more. So, if you’ve been contemplating about finding a home outside the city, here are a few key signs that you're ready to make the move as gleaned from the lively affair:

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Above An al fresco setup at home allows one to have more control on their get-together.

Tired of a hectic lifestyle and cramped spaces

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Above The Bike Park at Rockwell South is one of the many spacious parks in the property.
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Above (Clockwise: Stephanie Zubiri, Julie Boschi, and Karen Eizmendi)

Two ladies who live south of Metro Manila, namely Julie Boschi and Karen Eizmendi, echoed Francisco’s thoughts while sharing their own adventures with living just outside the busy metropolis. When asked what her motivation for relocating was, Boschi imparted that it was, at first, a medical decision – her daughter had difficulties with asthma. Once settled in Alabang, the slower pace of southern living and abundance of fresh air immediately quelled the symptoms. “You can really see the difference – it’s like night and day – it’s more laidback,” Eizmendi jumped in, commenting on contrasting city and suburban lifestyles.

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City dwellers know quite well the many beautiful parks to frequent whenever craving for a refreshing jog or a place to picnic and spend time with family. But in the south, these spaces are more abundant, especially if you find a development that prioritises spaces for recreation.

If you’re looking to be more creative with a bigger space

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Above (Clockwise: Stephanie Zubiri, Tessa Alindogan, and Arch. Ramon Antonio)

Dialling in during the event where two powerhouse names in architecture and design: Architect Ramon Antonio and Tessa Alindogan. Much to the delight of guests, both industry experts where more than happy to share their notes on building the perfect home and even take in questions from the virtual crowd.

Alindogan related that one should consider “creating an airy space that doesn’t rely on mechanical ventilation like air conditioning, [this way], you [can] maximise the nice air and breeze you get in the south compared to the city.”

Read More: Why is Mid-Century Modern Design Still Popular to This Day?

Architect Antonio also noted that maximising a lot doesn’t necessarily equate to maximsing construction – it’s still best to make room for a garden or a patch for relaxation. “Courtyards, atriums, you see these gardens and it makes living in the tropics really wonderful,” he added.

When it comes to creating your abode, it’s no secret that a smaller space may require more creative manoeuvring for home owners. So, it you’re keen to exploring more possibilities with your interiors, a layout that allows for bigger furniture, or perhaps even a more adventurous blueprint, a spacious lot is a great investment. “An open plan is [also] a great idea,” Architect Antonio added. “Family bonding is [made even more] fantastic for this style of home.”

 

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Above The Barbeque park in Rockwell South at Carmelray offers a safe space for people who want to enjoy the outdoors with a small number of peers.
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(Photo: Getty Images)
Above (Photo: Getty Images)

The evening drew to a close with guests chiming in about what they’re looking forward to the most as they build their properties at Carmelray. The virtual event was punctuated with warm farewells amongst the Tatler x Rockwell community.

There's no doubting that those who are looking to relocate outside central business districts certainly have health and wellness in mind. If this is a newfound or strengthened priority for you, there’s no better time than now to invest in property that’ll benefit your journey towards recuperation. The past couple of years has had all of us suddenly adapt to a sequestered lifestyle and now that things are adjusting to a better normal, the sky's the limit for those who want to re-envision their homes as a haven amongst nature.


For additional information, feel free to visit Rockwell South at Carmelray's official website rockwellsouthatcarmelray.com or follow them on Instagram @rockwellsouthatcarmelray and Facebook facebook.com/RockwellSouthatCarmelray. If you’re interested to discover more of Tatler’s virtual or live events, e-mail nikki@tatlerphilippines.com.

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Above The Central Amenity area at Rockwell South houses a function hall ideal for intimate gatherings.
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Model house: Rockwell South at Carmelray
Above Model house: Rockwell South at Carmelray

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