Manila Bulletin
December 16, 2009
South Forbes
Vacations seem to be the most awaited time of the year when people practically spend their last hard-earned centavo if only to pamper themselves with all available creature comforts before going back to reality.
But sometimes, staying at home can be a vacation in itself, especially if your home is in Phuket Mansions and Phuket Estates, the Thai resort-inspired enclaves of South Forbes Golf City, the country’s largest fully-integrated and all-themed golf resort city at the heart of the Metro Sta. Rosa–Tagaytay corridor.
The Phuket enclaves’ crown jewel is its majestic clubhouse, designed by master of minimalism, Arch. Ed Ledesma, whose impressive artistry and passion for the modern Asian design has established another landmark in South Forbes.
“To be faithful to Thai architecture yet adding a modern touch to the clubhouse, we maintain a high-pitched roof with dark-colored roof tiles, putting a lot of wood, and laying out a stone base,” said Arch. Ledesma. “Clean lines make it appear light and the only ornamentation is limited to the doorway.”
From the gate alone, one is left in awe. A stone road guides motorists or pedestrians toward the clubhouse whose high-pitched roof becomes its most prominent element as it has always been the defining feature of classical Thai architecture.
A massive pristine-white doorway with floral patterns hints of the plethora of vibrant Thai flowers. Beyond at the main lobby are interlocking wood-clad columns and beams that suggest warmth.
The clubhouse is designed to accommodate functions in different environments –air-conditioned indoor, covered al fresco, and outdoor – and the function halls are enclosed in glass, creating a seamless blend between interior and exterior.
These glass doors that keep separate functions private can also be opened to expand to a larger space; hence, a bigger function area.
The blanket of black natural stones of the clubhouse’s driveway and rotunda leads down to the 25-meter infinity lap pool which presents a scene of tranquility with the illusion of water flowing down the river below. Pavilion-style gazebos, outdoor showers, reflecting pools and a sunbathing deck remind of a Phuket weekend experience.
Any vacation in paradise will never be complete unless one is surrounded by the beauty of nature.
As with many structures in Thailand, there exists a symbiotic relationship between nature and structure as manifested in their tradition of building beside water because the Thais believe that water refreshes and cleanses aura and body.
Aside from the pool, several reflecting pools, including the sound the running river creates, help wash away tension and leave a cleansed soul.
Standing tall along the main avenue, anahaw trees shoot up from a bed of bougainvillea, directing residents and guests from the gate to the clubhouse.
The main driveway and the entry wall of natural black stones offer a counterpoint to the whites, pinks, and greens of the foliage.
The anchor of the whole development is the world-class 18-hole South Forbes Golf and Leisure Club where membership comes free with every lot or condominium unit purchase at no activation cost.
And should club members visit Thailand, they can drop by and play golf at the Laguna Phuket Golf Course with their privileged access and special discounts through South Forbes’ affiliation with the IMG Sports Club.
Mnaila Bulletin
December 16, 2009
Developer: Cathay Land
Marketed by; Philproperties International Corporation the best professional online real estate company.
