As new urban centers emerge throughout the Philippines, more of us will enjoy the conveniences and attractions brought by the condominium lifestyle.
In recent years, more Filipino consumers have experienced contemporary condo living and its offerings of enhanced security, modern amenities, and proximity to goods and services. In fact, high-rise and mid-rise developments like condominiums and mixed-use buildings continue to be among the market’s top property choices.
In the midst of this, COVID-19 came upon us suddenly and brought on many new perspectives. For instance, condo buyers now favor sustainable, green developments with plenty of open spaces. They feel safer in such environments as the crisis continues, and feel that in case a similar situation happens in the future, their home in a green building will provide a healthier and more comfortable environment.
It is no different in my country, Italy, where an increase is being observed for properties with terraces and other open features, and those that are located in areas where the air is cleaner, away from congested centers. The trend appears to be happening worldwide. People are getting more conscious about certain physical characteristics of their investments. On top of that, developers must make sure that their properties’ locations are always accessible—conveniently connected to business districts, malls, institutions, etc. but not situated in tight, polluted centers.
It makes sense for developers to deliver safer and healthier environments to end-users. As an architect, I believe strongly in the transformative effect of design features such as open-air amenities, terraces, balconies, and the placement of an open atrium at the center of a residential building. This allows not only the flow of fresh air and the soft illumination of natural light but also gives a feeling of lightness and openness afforded by free lines of sight. One consequence of this design philosophy is that density will be limited. It will not be possible to pack in as many units as possible into a given space. But lightness instead of density increases the value of real estate in the long run.
The greater emphasis on green residences is one positive that is coming out of our pandemic experience. Our present crisis situation and the very real impact of climate change are making it necessary for people all over the world to make important lifestyle changes. We just need to understand that those changes will improve our lifestyle and not do the opposite. The exciting challenge that designers and developers now face is to guide and reinforce this shift in the paradigm as green living becomes the preferred way of life.
I would like to invite you to Like, Follow, and Share my online spaces and content on Facebook and LinkedIn (Architect Romolo V. Nati), and on Twitter (@romolonati).