The dawn of a new year typically signals a period of reevaluation and resolution for many, leading to changes in one’s life, whether temporary or of a more permanent nature. These resolutions could be in the form of small acts like resolving to cut down on time spent in front of the screen or adding more exercise into your daily routines, or something a bit larger, like investing in a tangible asset for your future, such as a home in which to settle down in, something which is gaining more appeal to metro dwellers, especially in light of the current health crisis.
With Metro Manila becoming increasingly congested, a steady trickle of prospective homeowners began looking further south as a potential area to move into, with the allure of an urban oasis that was less populated and provided lots of fresh air to breathe proving to be enough of an enticement for many.
Don Tim Development Corporation (DTDC) CEO Audric Leong shares, “Before the pandemic, people wanted to get away from the city and enjoy the cool climate of Tagaytay,” and adds that the proximity to the capital was another reason why people flocked to the hilled city. After the pandemic hit, however, the reasons for escaping to Tagaytay became much more nuanced. Sheltering within the confines of one’s homes in the metro quickly became constrictive, and when it was deemed that open air areas were the safest spaces, the lack of those became even more apparent.
If there’s anything the pandemic has taught us, it’s that we need to get in touch with nature and the importance of a community within easy reach. As a result, Tagaytay became an even bigger draw for those who desired a sanctuary away from the bustling metro but still preferred to stay a quick drive away from it.
As the CEO of DTDC, one of the first developers in Tagaytay, Leong shares that they foresaw this trend way back in 2016, owing to the rate of growth within the country. He proudly mentions DTDC now having “…a surge of clients wanting to move in or settle their balances so they can avail their homes.” He surmises on the reason behind the uptick in interest, “Tagaytay is the place where everyone dreams of having a home, it is a mark that life is good. Even just the idea of going to Tagaytay is soothing in itself.”
Montebello, DTDC’s expansive residential boutique development along Alfonso, Cavite, is the embodiment of the developer’s mission to give Filipinos access to better homes and communities. Just this year, DTDC introduced two new home models that will rise within the Montebello community.
Daphne: An abode built to last
The first is Daphne, a single attached house and lot. Inspired by its name which symbolizes immortality, it melds practicality and simplicity into a functional and well-planned premium home. Daphne invokes the vibe of the Asian Tropics, and renders locally available materials for a warm, earthy abode that one will look forward to coming home to. Using clean and simple details that can withstand the elements, it was designed to maximize Metro Tagaytay’s natural sunlight and cool breeze via provisions for full opening living area sliding doors complete with transom window jalousies that allow for maximum air circulation within the house, while providing natural lighting in the living spaces at the same time. Each unit features a second-floor balcony where residents can have a meditative experience even within the confines of their home. But the best feature within Daphne are the adaptable spaces brimming with endless possibilities, as they can be utilized according to a resident’s aesthetic or functional preferences.
Lotus Twins: A duplex bungalow designed in a contemporary Asian style
The second new home model, Lotus Twins, was launched just this October and was built specifically with the new normal in mind. It features open, flexible layouts, allowing for better ventilation and will afford its future residents an efficient use of its space. Each Twin, or half of these duplexes, measure 108 square meters in gross floor area, and will feature two bedrooms, a kitchen, living area, as well as toilet and bath. The Lotus Twins also have an Asian Contemporary Design, with wood panels stylishly added all throughout the home to give the space a warmer, cozier feel. Much like the Daphne, the Lotus was designed to maximize the natural sunlight and air flow that the location has, so residents can conserve energy and make the most out of the cool local climate.
Another key feature that both the Daphne and Lotus home models share is that both have provisions for expansion, to allow growing or extended families to add spaces for a better living experience. For the Daphne, homeowners may turn portions of the rear yard into floor spaces to create either an extended kitchen, living area, den, or even an additional bedroom. As for the Lotus, homeowners have the option to purchase the tandem unit and integrate a block out or opening at the common wall in order to conjoin the two units and create a larger, interconnected space.
Resident safety is highly valued within Montebello, and each Daphne and Lotus Twins unit comes with a perimeter fence at the sides and rear that affords security without obstructing views.
“Montebello is a very private peaceful community.” Leong shares. “The sunsets are very majestic, as well as the view of Mt. Batulao. We made sure that we created an environment that is very cohesive and not cluttered. For the vibe of the houses, we stuck to the modern country feel of the new normal especially since most of the homeowners we have now are millennials—even as young as 26 years old; gone are the days that retirees and baby boomers purchase.”
Montebello offers more than just homes, however. Among the first-class amenities one will get to enjoy when purchasing a home within the development is a clubhouse complex designed to call to mind a resort community for residents. It includes adult and kiddie swimming pools, full-size basketball and tennis courts, a children’s playground and other wide-open spaces ideal for picnics, strolling, jogging, biking and other outdoor activities. But more than that, it also holds the promise of living within a community.
Don Tim Development Corporation (DTDC) is a real estate development firm based in Metro Manila, with residential subdivision projects in Tagaytay City, Alfonso, and Silang, Cavite. A family corporation spanning two generations, DTDC is driven by its mission to enhance the quality of Filipino families’ lives – offering affordable, functional premium homes and first-rate amenities, in prime locations across the Cavite area.
Visit www.dontim.com.ph to know more or contact +632 8843 -9471 for any inquiries.
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The article was originally published in ABS-CBN and written by Katrina Domingo.
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