Over the last decade, wellness has increasingly influenced real estate, driving a shift towards eco-friendly materials, sustainable solutions, and advanced technology to promote healthier, balanced lifestyles. The COVID-19 pandemic further accelerated this focus, placing health and well-being at the core of our living priorities.
The Philippines, being a choice retirement destination for many years, has seen more property developments shift towards leisure and relaxation in the last decade. Today, as more people are prioritizing wellness and health, there are more developers creating residential developments that blend modern luxuries with sustainability and holistic living.
Congratulations to all the recipients of this year’s PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards. The winners showcased true excellence in these exemplary developments, representing the remarkable growth and progress in the Philippines.
Jeremy Williams, Managing Director of Marketplaces at PropertyGuru Group
These properties received recognition and were celebrated at the prestigious 11th PropertyGuru Philippine Property Awards, presented by the renowned kitchen and bathroom design brand Kohler. The awards ceremony took place on September 22, 2023, at Shari-La The Fort Manila.
Seafront Residences, a 43-hectare master-planned beach community by Aboitiz Land along Tayabas Bay in Batangas, won both Best Housing Development and Best Waterfront Housing Development awards. Within this sprawling property are the Seafront Villas, a small cluster of condominium units that brings together urban convenience with beachside relaxation. Prime amenities, including the clubhouse, pool deck, and function hall, are perfectly positioned against the captivating backdrop of the shoreline, providing residents with an ideal setting to either work or unwind while enjoying this picturesque view. Their commendable collaboration with the Aboitiz Foundation, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, and the University of the Philippines Diliman Institute of Environmental Science and Meteorology for the Pawikan Conservation Project underscores their commitment to conservation, highlighting the essence of holistic living.
Graceland Solar Bloc by Greentech Land Development Corporation deserves mention as the Best Eco Friendly Housing Development. It features solar-ready units and energy-efficient design for sustainability and savings.
In the centrally-located Visayas Region, Costa Mira, Cebu Landmasters’ inaugural beach series offering, clinched the Best Waterfront Condo Development award. This integrated beach resort community showcases tropical homes along Mactan’s southern coast surrounded by lush tropical greenery and nature-inspired architecture.
Cebu Landmasters was awarded Best Developer in Mindanao, recognized for groundbreaking projects in the region such as MesaVerte Residences in Cagayan de Oro and the expansive Davao Global Township. These projects exemplify their commitment to creating sustainable communities that foster wellness.
Also in the same region, Royal Oceancrest Panglao in Bohol by Primary Homes, earned dual accolades as the Best Sustainable Developer and the Best Eco-Friendly Condo Development. The development offers a wide array of amenities, including a meditation garden, a koi pond, a jogging trail, and neo-Asian designed units that are smartly furnished with modern conveniences, all oriented towards promoting wellness.
Moving further down the Philippine archipelago to Samal Island in Mindanao — the seventh-most populated island in the world — we find Bridgeport Park by Damosa Land. This prime property was recognized as the Best Condo Development in Mindanao and garnered several other honorable mentions. This marina community draws inspiration from the boating and seaside lifestyle of the Atlantic East coast of the United States. Residents have access to premium amenities such as a private marina, dry dock boat parking, a helipad, and Samal Island’s most impressive swimming pool, stretching 90 meters. These features provide exceptional viewpoints of the Davao Gulf, complemented by Davao’s skyline and the towering presence of Mount Apo, the Philippines’ highest peak.
The rising trend of wellness-centric residential properties isn’t limited to island and beachside developments; it is also evident in the nation’s capital. Bloom Residences by SM Development Corporation (SMDC), designed to be a quiet refuge in the metropolis, has earned the title of Best Wellness Residential Development. Taking inspiration from the natural environment that surrounds it, the well-thought-out landscape design creates an atmosphere that helps promote a holistic, healthy lifestyle rooted in community. Further exemplifying SMDC’s commitment to excellence in elevated urban living is Glam Residences, which was awarded the Best Connectivity Condo Development.
Woodsville Crest by RLC Residences, located in Paranaque City, won the Best Smart Home Development award. The development’s design supports a tranquil urban lifestyle while featuring innovative smart home amenities.
“Woodsville Crest by RLC Residences is a suburban sanctuary powered by tech-savvy features,” commented the judges. “Smart locks and audio-visual intercoms satisfy security and convenience. Lights can be controlled via an app, with fibre connectivity while a digital portal supports residents. There is also a mall e-shuttle service and solar-powered e-charging station.”
Also in the capital, lyf Malate Manila by Torre Lorenzo Development Corporation was recognized as the Best Co-Living Space, underscoring the growing importance of community wellness in the urban setting.
The Best Lifestyle Development award was presented to Pueblo de Oro Townscapes Malvar by Pueblo de Oro Development Corporation. The development is part of a 212-hectare mixed-use complex in Batangas shared with the Science Park of the Philippines. It boasts tropical, zen, and woodland zones with communal spaces where residents of all ages can engage in various activities. Additionally, it is home to Abba’s Orchard, a well-regarded Montessori school in the Philippines, which places a strong emphasis on holistic human development.
“A landscape of natural ravines inspired the design of Pueblo de Oro Townscapes Malvar by Pueblo de Oro Development. Mindfully creating eco-friendly, sustainable residential enclaves closely connected to Nature is at the township’s heart. The houses also offer homes for employees of the Science Park of the Philippines,” explained the judges.
Meanwhile the Best Lifestyle Developer award was given to Robinsons Land Corp. in recognition Forbes Estates Lipa – a senior-friendly enclave that encourages a slow-paced luxury living and the preservation of nature.
Jeremy Williams, managing director of Marketplaces at PropertyGuru Group, said, “Congratulations to all the recipients of this year’s PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards. The winners showcased true excellence in these exemplary developments, representing the remarkable growth and progress in the Philippines. The awardees’ commitment to innovation, sustainability, and quality truly serves as an inspiration to the real estate industry, as we build the cities of tomorrow. We hope that the winners, with their commitment to ESG and sustainable design, will contribute to a better world in the years to come.”
In this era of wellness-oriented living, it’s clear that the concept of home has evolved. From harmonious designs that prioritize safety and comfort to thoughtfully chosen locations that balance accessibility and tranquility, every element puts well-being at the top of mind, reflecting the growing awareness of the profound impact of our living environments on our daily lives.
