Cover The Summit Lounge is the heart and soul of Shang Summit, offering breathtaking panoramic views and al fresco spaces (Photo: courtesy of Shang Properties)
The Summit Lounge is the heart and soul of Shang Summit, offering breathtaking panoramic views and al fresco spaces (Photo: courtesy of Shang Properties)
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Shang Properties
Francesca Muzio of FM Architettura shares her insights into designing four of Shang Properties’ luxury residences
The ideal residence is comfortable, adapts to our changing needs, and possesses a unique personality. It should be a place of rest, somewhere we can feel safe and at home. These qualities are evident in Shang Properties’ four luxury developments: Aurelia Residences, Shang Bauhinia Residences, Shang Summit, and Haraya Residences. Francesca Muzio of FM Architettura is the visionary behind their designs, drawing on her Italian heritage while interpreting Filipino culture and sensibilities into her work.
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Above Francesca Muzio of FM Architettura (Photo: courtesy of Shang Properties)
Francesca Muzio of FM Architettura (Photo: courtesy of Shang Properties)
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At the core of Muzio’s design philosophy is the concept of sprezzatura, or living in an elegant yet cosy manner. “I think Aurelia is a reflection of this way of living,” she says. “It is extremely elegant with authenticity. The way that we designed it was to try to involve Filipino artists.” She thus applies this and seamlessly blends it with the distinct Filipino style. This reflects the deep love and affection she holds for the country, which she has visited at least thrice a year for the past 14 years.
“Aurelia is a feminine name that has its etymology in the word aurum, which is gold in Laitn. So it is something very precious, and we tried to make its entrance reflect that.” In addition, Muzio considers the femininity exuded by the lobby’s flowing chandelier and wispy staircase as a celebration of Filipina women. Also central is its location at the very centre of Bonifacio Global City, which grants it a convenient vantage point to view Forbes Park, Manila Golf and Country Club, and a glimpse of Manila Bay on the horizon. The concept of ‘meraviglia’, a sense of wonder, is the main focus, something that residents are sure to feel, as Aurelia’s turnover approaches. Yet, the other residences have their own remarkable identities whilst maintaining Shang’s signature sense of elegance.
See more: Here are 7 Filipino-designed table lamps to bring tranquility to your space
Above Aurelia Residences delivers unmatched elegance and sophistication (Photo: courtesy of Shang Properties)
Aurelia Residences delivers unmatched elegance and sophistication (Photo: courtesy of Shang Properties)
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Above Haraya Residences is a vertical gated village with an emphasis on family and community (Photo: courtesy of Shang Properties)
Haraya Residences is a vertical gated village with an emphasis on family and community (Photo: courtesy of Shang Properties)
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“In Haraya, for example, the first question I asked was, ‘Which kind of people will live here?’”
She learnt that a lot of the potential residents were people from nearby villages, and saw, after visiting the area, that its strategic location near schools make it a thriving and lively community. She aimed to capture that essence in Haraya by including amenities that were warm and familiar.
“These people were very family-oriented. So we started thinking—we will create a ballroom, a co-working space, and a playground for children. These will not only be public areas but extensions of their homes. We tried to have a vertical gated village without any boundaries.” Thus arose the Italian-inspired loggias, giving units ample breathing room and a deep connection between the interior and exterior spaces of one’s home.
Likewise, Shang’s Bauhinia Residences makes its mark on the landscape of Cebu, blending together luxury and culture that’s unique to the location. By leaning on the talents of local artists, it honours tradition. From the botanicals to the native materials and elements used in its construction, Bauhinia proves its own distinction. Their signature units, located on the upper floors, offer a whole other level of exclusivity, featuring private lifts and their own set of amenities. On the other side, in the heart of Manila, Shang Summit dominates the skyline. The East Tower has units all with their own breathtaking panoramic views of the city. It is strikingly modern, yet meticulously and passionately designed to ensure ease of living and comfort.
Above The front lobby of Shang Bauhinia Residences is a luxurious welcome (Photo: courtesy of Shang Properties)
The front lobby of Shang Bauhinia Residences is a luxurious welcome (Photo: courtesy of Shang Properties)
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Muzio and FM Architettura have worked hand-in-hand with Shang Properties to deliver impeccable developments, setting a new standard for luxury living in the country. Whether you’re relaxing on your private balcony at Bauhinia or basking in the familial amenities of Haraya, one thing remains true amidst all of them—you’ll always feel right at home.
Visit shangproperties.com and fm-arch.it to learn more, and visit the social media pages of Haraya Residences, Shang Bauhinia Residences, Aurelia Residences, and Shang Summit.
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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.
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Tobias is a features writer that specialises in branded content. Reach out to him at tobias.tomas@tatlerasia.com.
