Ed Calma created the concept of this unique showroom for Alveo Land, Inc.. The display area highlights the model units of Alveo's various real estate projects and features interiors designed by UO2 Architects and Empire Designs.

The modern model unit for the Kroma Tower. The designers have created a highly 'cosmpolitan ambience,' with an extra dose of 'urban panache.'

Lifescapes, the first multi-project concept showroom in the Philippines by Alveo Land, Inc. located at the second level of Greenbelt 3 in Makati boasts of a detailed scale model of the entire Makati Central Business District. Reportedly, it took four months to build. The showroom allows visitors to see where the various residential building projects of Alveo are located as they light up at the push of a button. Cutting-edge interactive screens give on-demand information such as computer generated renderings and floor plans, while diorama-type visuals adorn the walls to highlight each unique project in lieu of the usual static artworks. The showroom is a first of its kind in the Philippines

No less than internationally renowned modernist designer Architect Ed Calma, who has worked on museums, residential and commercial buildings, and  master planning, was commissioned to conceptualize this special showroom experience.

Architect Calma played with the extremely elongated space to achieve an undulating effect, warmly inviting visitors to walk through the corridors and explore the space.

He says, “I wanted to bring visitors to a space where the feel would differ from the space they experience everyday – which is sharp and boxy, so I combined luxurious materials like washed oak veneer to clad walls, and made accompanying furniture and a unique copper-colored mesh design to create a smooth, seamless, and pulsating space.”

“I’m very critical about the texture, consistency of form, and the subtleties of color in a space,” he continues. “I see to it that all the elements do not compete with each other but rather, all contribute equally to the definition of the space – much like an orchestra or a band where all the instruments play in unison, yet each instrument can still be distinguished.”

On the left side of the showroom are model units for the residential buildings located in the Makati Central Business District – the cosmopolitan sophistication of Kroma Tower and the charmingly quirky pace of The Lerato; while to the right are the model units for subdivisions and leisure projects in Tagaytay, foremost of which is the relaxed and natural vibe of Kasa Luntian.

Closely collaborating with Architect Calma on the model units are UO2 Architects and Empire Designs, this according to Ayala Land, Inc. marketing head Eunice V. Acejo, marketing manager Sharleen T. Chua, and division manager Aristides Antonio C. Gonzales.

The Kroma Tower, located along Dela Rosa St. in Makati, is a mixed-use high rise development right in the heart of the business district. As such, the designers have projected a highly cosmopolitan ambience with an extra dose of urban panache for its residents.

The model unit plays with monochromatic but sophisticated earth tones for its walls, furnishings, linens and drapes. Sleek accent pieces such as floor lamps and a copper finished center table contrasts with simple but comfortable sectional sofas. Wooden cabinets and glass side tables complete the no-fuss, no-nonsense modern look that goes well with a fast-paced lifestyle.

The Lerato located within walking distance from lush greens, a wide array of retail destinations, and the multifaceted locale that thrives on artistic drive along the bohemian side of Makati’s business district, was envisioned to be the ideal home for creative spirits.

The model unit has an industrial look with matte floorboards, and a contrast between rough concrete-finished walls and raw wood panelling. Canvas was the textile of choice for the window drapes, throw pillows and chair fabric. Unvarnished wood and metal furniture probably sourced from thrift shops or flea markets provide the necessary space for storage and daily living.

Kasa Luntian, located on the quiet side of the ridge in Tagaytay, is Alveo Land’s first leisure residential development. Carefully integrating the environs into their design scheme, the condominiums are happily low-rise, low density neighbourhoods that diminish the clutter of urban living.

The model unit is very relaxing with a Hamptons approach to its interiors. Pastel palettes adorn comfortable chairs and sofas. A glass-top center table with an assortment of chopped wood blocks for legs make for an interesting conversation piece. Sliding door panels separate the bedrooms from the living room. A balcony veranda for each unit makes full use of the crisp mountain air and the priceless view of nature.