MANILA, Philippines – AMENITIES ARE crucial in creating livable, sustainable communities. These often define the quality of lifestyles that individuals and families can look forward to having, as amenities, if properly incorporated in a building’s design, can readily provide homeowners that much needed respite, comfort and convenience after a stressful day in the urban jungle.

But while real estate developers can easily put up stunning, towering structures with impressive facades, there are but a handful that can seamlessly and effectively put in a well-planned, first-rate amenity area in every project. This is why property developer Empire East Land Holdings Inc. had ensured the inclusion of carefully thought out amenities in each of its projects, with the belief that these are just as important as providing homeowners with structurally sound and world-class developments.

“At Empire East we believe that no matter howgrand a structure may seem, if it is not designed and built to showcase well thought out amenities,it would render worthless or of no value to any individual who aspire to achieve that perfect balance and equilibrium,” explained Empire East President and CEO Atty. Anthony Charlemagne Yu. Yu believes that amenities are what makes a development truly special and a cut above the rest.

Thus for Empire East, various consultations and immense planning are conducted to ensure that what will be provided to future homeowners is something that would fit their desired lifestyle and needs. “Amenities, after all, are what could help define the quality of life of an individual. The company believes that as a developer, it is our responsibility and duty to provide and equipped our developments with the necessary tools to make living in the concrete urban jungle more relaxing and enjoyable,” Yu stressed.

Previous studies have in fact shown that individuals who live in areas and communities where they are given the right tools for enjoyment and relaxation are more productive and are expected to deal with stress better. “A developer’s role does not end with the completion of the structure. The challenge actually lies on how we’ll be able to keep up with the evolving needs and changing lifestyle of our homeowners. The needs of our residents from 10 years ago are extremely different from what the current batch of homeowners now needs, and thus we should manage to keep up, if not go beyond, their expectations,” Yu noted. “At Empire East, we continue to innovate and make sure to incorporate only amenities that are practical and which homeowners would find useful. Our developments are designed to feature and provide sensible amenities that would make every homeowner’s life relaxing and comforting,” he added.

Highly regarded for its expertise in sustainable communities, Empire East has managed to create over the last two decades landmark residential communities that have not only transformed the urban and suburban landscapes but likewise made the lives of its residents extremely comfortable and satisfying. “We have introduced over the past years new and innovative concepts in the choice of amenities that we provide homeowners, all of which seek to create a harmonious and rejuvenating lifestyle that help uplift the quality of living experience for our residents,” Yu shared.

Currently, the property firm controlled by Filipino tycoon Andrew Tan specializes in the creation of world-class residential communities for the middle-income market segment, and in the sale or lease of commercial and industrial spaces. “We will continue to grow and innovate to differentiate us from the rest of the pack; meet the market head on with relevant and responsive products; and keep the company accountable when it comes to customer service and satisfaction,” he said.

Meanwhile, here are four Empire East projects whose amenities, location, design and layout have enabled their residents to further enjoy a more convenient, comfortable and more enhanced lifestyles.

Pioneer Woodlands

Pioneer Woodlands was put up to enable people to experience the seamless balance between modernity and nature. The entire development has been lined with pathways and sitting areas, and boasts of a swimming pool, playground, gym and garden, as well as a two-storey retail arcade meant to provide residents comfort, convenience and enjoyment.

Such a custom environment at the PioneerWoodlands saw the integration of a design that is centered on integrating natural elements and modern sensibilities that are both aesthetically appealing and significantly functional. This development, which has unit cuts ranging from 20.50 to 61 sqm, is thus seen to appeal to young urban professionals and students who have active and driven lifestyles. These are the so-called “city adventurers” who need to be out and about in the city, or those with office responsibilities that require proximity to central business districts and yet, they aspire for that soothing calm that a laid back, nature-centered lifestyle brings.

A bonus, of course, is Pioneer Woodlands’ link to the MRT-3 Boni Station along Edsa, which positions residents at the center of the north and south, thus allowing them to easily go from one exciting destination to another. Given all the benefits that can be had from this stress-free and nature inspired development, Pioneer Woodlands is indeed a wise and practical buy for potential homebuyers seeking for the ultimate in wellness, convenience and comfort.

Kasara

The resort-inspired Kasara Urban Resort residential development, which is centrally located at the junction of Eagle and P. Antonio Streets in Ugong, Pasig City, has about 65 percent of its area dedicated to greenery, wide, open spaces and water-oriented amenities.

As it was inspired by a water theme park, this 1.8-hectare development brings a distinctive vacation feel to everyday living. From its sparkling water features and an infinity pool to a 24/7 mini-bar and lounge, homeowners are sure to find ways to cool off. A nearby basketball court and pathway meanwhile encourage healthy activity while being surrounded by nature.

More privileges further await future residents given the development’s fun podium amenities, including pocket pools, jogging paths, gazebos and putting greens. Facilities such as the gym, bar, day care center and library have also been provided for added comfort and convenience. The six-tower Kasara is thus perfect for those seeking a sense of balance and calm to life after a long day at work. Indeed, homeowners will be given that rare privilege to discover a true paradise here within the heart of the city.

The Mango Tree Residences

The latest project from Empire East, The Mango Tree Residences in San Juan City, meanwhile offers an old-world charm with its Italian-inspired design, sans the cost of traveling to picturesque locations outside the metro.

Such is the attraction of The Mango Residences that netizens had been abuzz of this exquisitely premium property development, while many newly engaged couples have expressed their desire to set prenuptial photo and video shoots here.

Indeed, future homeowners at Mango Tree Residences can look forward to enjoying a piece of their own eden as it is set amid a lush greenery filled with mango trees, and hence the reason behind the name of this project.

The Mango Tree Residences is a two-tower high rise condominium standing on a five level podium with a luxurious ground-level retail arcade. It features high-end amenities and facilities that would make living at the Mango Tree Residences truly convenient and relaxing. It is likewise perfect for people who value privacy with its low density, having only 10 units per floor.

Rochester

Designed with amixture of chic and rejuvenating amenities, the modern Asian-themed Rochester provides its residents the much needed access to a lifetime of relaxation, amusement and leisure.

And with its fully constructed clubhouse and its complete array of indoor and outdoor amenities, the resort vibe of The Rochester, is undeniable.

The Rochester, which is located in Pasig City, offers a variety of vibrant outdoor amenities that continue the vein of upscale recreation. Surrounding the centerpiece 25-meter-long lap pool and children’s pool is a children’s playground, gazebo, basketball/tennis court, jogging paths and pocket gardens.

Future homeowners will further be spoiled for choice at the clubhouse, which showcases a bar with lounge, a game area for billiards and darts, a gym, as well as a function hall that can accommodate up to 100 guests.With a large part of the community set aside for open spaces and greenery, getting truly connected to oneself and to others becomes an everyday privilege at Rochester.

Little Baguio Terraces

Strategically located along N. Domingo Avenue and Aurora Boulevard near San Juan’s Greenhills district, Little Baguio Terraces boasts of amenities and facilities that would make every student’s life a breeze. Such amenities are expected to enable students to focus on their school work and still find time to catch up on their hobbies and other activities as well. A swimming pool, sunbathing lounge, children’s pool, spa, playground, landscaped area with benches, gym and day care center are all hosted at the first level of Towers 1 and 2. Nearby shopping centers, restaurants and malls meanwhile provide students and other residents with alternative hangouts.

The project also has its own day care center, thus making early learning accessible to children living at Little Baguio Terraces. Here, qualified pre-school teachers instruct young wards in the basics of reading, writing and counting. A big plus, of course, is Little Baguio Terraces’ strategic location. Apart from its easy access to public transport and major roads, Little Baguio Terraces has the advantage of being just minutes away via bus or jeep from Manila’s university belt, where prestigious academies for higher learning such as Centro Escolar University, San Beda College, Far Eastern University, University of the East and the University of Sto. Tomas can be found.

The ease of commute enjoyed by residents extends to the Katipunan area, where the University of the Philippines-Diliman and the Ateneo de Manila University are located. Exclusive schools for secondary education such as La Salle Greenhills, Xavier School, Immaculate Conception Academy, St. Paul College, Poveda College and Lourdes School can also be reached in minutes. ADVT