Filipino tradition dictates that at some point, the ancestors of most Manileños lived in a bahay kubo. That iconic nipa hut structure has since been reimagined by Architect Bobby Mañosa, who used this as inspiration for his landmark works such as the San Miguel offices in Ortigas, the EDSA Shrine, the Coconut Palace and the structures at the Amanpulo Resort.
The second generation of Mañosas is carrying on the family tradition by creating noteworthy abodes, still based on that basic architectural framework via Manosa Properties Inc. (MPI). One of their biggest projects to date is Tagô, an idyllic residential community located in a quiet spot in Tagaytay City.
There are two types of houses at the property, and they both feature an airy, open-plan design that incorporates distinctive bahay kubo elements that the multi-awarded Mañosa legacy is known for. Conceptualized to be very exclusive, the Tagô development is made up of 12 Ara-al homes and 40 Adobe homes, with each house having its own design, to follow the slope of the land and its orientation to the sun. The 240-sqm Adobe homes occupy 250-sqm lots while the larger 300-sqm Ara-al homes sit on lots that range from 350 – 400 sqm in size. Both homes have 2 storeys with three bedrooms and a maids room.
“My father is our consultant for the project. He has seen our plans and has given his inputs,” shares Dino Mañosa, MPI CEO. “The signature staircase with señorita steps, the banggerahan, which is used for the natural drying of dishes, as well as Mañosa-designed wooden wall lamps and other accessories provide classic Filipino touches. “The banggerahan that is traditionally inspired by the ones found at the bahay kubo is a standard for all Mañosa homes. The difference from the old-style banggerahan is that we built ours with modern materials such as stainless steel,” he adds. Continued on C2
Along with following the basic outline that is suited for the Philippine climate, every Mañosa design is intrinsic with a deep respect and love for the land. “We like to leave a lot of open space and not consume every buildable square meter,” says Dino. Tagô is therefore master-planned to make the most of the raw natural beauty that surrounds it and is consciously limited to only 52 homes to provide a secure and close-knit community environment. Even the landscaping is purposeful – more than just ornamentals, there are edibles such as herbs and vegetables incorporated in the greenery.
With a view to building authentic Filipino ancestral homes intended to span multiple generations, the development uses locally-sourced sustainable materials and native design elements wherever possible. Bamboo, coconut, mat weaving, native stones, recycled lumber and a mix of farmed and reclaimed wood are used in as building materials and also in the interiors.
The residences boast of other environment-friendly features, which is why it has garnered a Berde Certification. Private gardens and landscaping are painstakingly planned to use plants that are edible and endemic to the area. High ceilings, deep overhangs, wide windows and an unobstructed center space are elements that allow for cross-ventilation and abundant natural light, minimizing the need for electrically-powered cooling and lighting.
As the homes are designed for the ultimate in weekend rest and relaxation, homeowners can enjoy unique community management services made available through a tie-up with the nearby Nurture Wellness Village. Their homes can be cleaned before and after their stay and regular garden maintenance or assistance in meal services while the family is in residence may also be arranged. One can also call to book one of the spa’s signature Filipino-themed spa treatments.
Cost is less of a concern with the fractional ownership arrangements for Tagô, where a property is owned and shared by more than one person through a legally divided title deed. “One of the most common concerns when purchasing a second home is that the amount of time spent in it doesn’t justify the significant investment required to purchase and maintain it. This problem is solved when ownership and occupancy can be divided and shared. With fractional ownership, usage rights as well as maintenance and upkeep, can be divided equitably,” Dino explains.
For more information about owning your own Mañosa home in Tagaytay, visit www.manosa-properties.com