National Artist Bobby Mañosa's Green Architecture in Ylang Lane New Manila

I've always been a fan of green architecture, as I believe that it's always been how architecture should always be-- environmental friendly! The "green" innovation in architecture is more or less an indigenous use of landscaping, water conservation techniques and energy-saving spaces abundant with natural lighting and ventilation. The modern bahay kubo, in essence, the perfect model of sustainable living.

National Artist for Architecture Bobby Manosa is a name parallel to design trademarkedly Filipino. Some of his famous works include the Amanpulo in Palawan, Edsa Shrine and Coconut Palace.  Drawing from an inexhaustible reserve of Filipino-inspired motifs, Manosa Properties unveil the luxurious Ylang Lane in New Manila. 

Seven duplexes and single attached units has breezy open spaces and the feel of the finest resorts Manosa has produced. Each unit is 4-storey high with a grand penthouse, surrounded by lush vegetation. With a project that has a national artist for its name, nothing can come short in terms of beauty and practicality. Manosa is a distillation of his design philosophy that he followed for more than 35 years. 

With only seven 350 square meter units, this exclusive abode is for those wanting to put a premium on living not only in a luxurious home but in a genuine piece of art. Each has a 3-car garage with a rooftop garden entertainment area, a rainwater harvester that can collect water for household use and centralised CCTV and roving security.This project was put together by the second generation of Manosas, because they wanted to make houses that doesn't cut corners on design because of budget constraints. 

For more information, contact Lisette Mangonon (Sales and Marketing Director) at 705-1135 497-7302 or 0917-5856709 or visit www.manosa.com 

Swoon-worthy Bachelor Pad

I've recently met another unit owner at the condominium we live in. He's a major network executive and a very much single bachelor-- and the proud owner of a super nifty pad that it actually warranted a post in Real Living. Can you imagine that this space is only 22 sq meters, but it's practically a full house-- with a fully-functional kitchen, an office and a bar?

He managed to convert this narrow hall into a small receiving area and his built-in closet opens to the right.


I love how utility incorporates into the design just like the wall clock shown here--- no space wasted!

He had a lot of knick-knacks which came from his travels abroad.


The customized cabinets solved storage problems. There's a lot of stuff behind those cabinets--- pantry, cleaning materials, food prep goodies, etc--- all stored neat and organized.

He opted to have a bar counter installed (with more storage underneath) instead of a little sitting-room. He says it's more important for him to have a large table given the documents he likes to spread around while working.



Here and I with Glenda, a senior bank manager at UCPB Galleria.


This DVD controls everything in the pad!

Now enter the bedroom


A little cute office with--- guess what--- more storage!

You can see how working on such a small space can actually be done.

His adorable little sleeping nook, filled with books, dvds, photographs and his collection of masks.

I can live in an apartment as small as this-- except for the bed, because I'm positive to find myself on the floor the next morning.

The bath was kept as it is, since it's already a nice, spartan quality of tilework. Mirrors were added to enlarge the space, and a little glass cabinet hides all the implements.


I should be working on a mood board for our future house now!