Live in a Masterpiece
Designed by top global architectural firms, Botanika Nature Residences integrates sustainability and luxury living through its mansion-like suites and devotion to a 70 percent open space
Tucked away at the quiet and spacious area in Filinvest City, Alabang, Botanika Nature Residences is an exclusive low-density residential enclave developed by high-end property brand Filigree. Committed to the highest standards of a convenient condominium lifestyle, Botanika, now ready for occupancy, offers spacious and refined units with sizes ranging from 125 sqm to 343 sqm. The aesthetics, amenities, and floor area are destined for the most discriminating homeowners who value privacy and fine living.
Botanika takes pride in its architectural design—the building rises like a broad and curved leaf—which gives it the cozy and breezy ambiance of a home welcoming its residents from a long day of work. This ambitious development came to fruition through the collaboration of global architectural and interior design firms: Leandro V. Locsin Partners, Singapore-based Miaja Design Group; while Architecture International shaped Botanika’s structure. AECOM Singapore implemented the enclave’s sustainability and green design.
“We see more sense in creating value through lower densities and enhanced breathing spaces,” explains Catherine Ilagan, Head of Filigree. “This is why we brought in a team of experts to fulfil our mission of creating a brand so exquisitely above the rest, and among the result is Botanika Nature Residences.”
Architects William J. Higgins, John P. Sheehy, and Sherry Caplan of Architecture International believe that Botanika is a triumph of global collective effort, bringing together engineers and builders from elite firms in project execution. “In that way, the team can produce work whose excellence goes beyond what any person could do individually.”
AN ICONIC DESIGN
Filigree’s ethos of responsible building attracted administrator and design consultant Andy Locsin (the son of National Artist for Architecture Leandro Locsin Sr.) of Leandro V. Locsin Partners (LVLP) to the project. The spirit of the building is compliant to strict regulations and standards of sustainability, and has BERDE (Building for Ecologically Responsive Design Excellence) certification from the Philippine Green Building Council.
Architecture International then conceptualized and designed an iconic leaf-shaped structure, which should give residents unobstructed views of the “green expanse beyond” while assuring them of utmost privacy. This unique design
concept also invites in natural light and ventilation, instilling a natural sense of order.
Botanika’s architectural design and location gives it a certain remove from other condominiums. According to Locsin, the property sits on a land with good “elevation topography.”
“This aspect and the development’s relatively low density ensure better quality of air, light, and general living environment,” he says.
Locsin recognises that his firm’s mutual familiarity with Architecture International was pivotal to the success of the property, as both firms have worked on several projects on the past.
“Our design process, philosophy, technology, and approach made for an easy collaboration. The respect, professionalism, and the desire to meet the client’s standard allowed us to work in sync,” Locsin says.
BEYOND ARCHITECTURE
Complementing the leaf-shaped structure are Botanika’s indoor amenity areas such as the main lobby, business center, children’s indoor play area, and the 3-bedroom showflat, designed by award-winning interior designer Isabelle Miaja of Miaja Design Group. Of Spanish and French descent, Miaja, who studied in the US, draws inspiration from different cultures.
“When we design, we build every project around a story line that is connected to the place, the people, and its art, the whole cultural background,” she says.
While doing her research, she roamed and shopped antiques in Manila, Pampanga, and other cities. “I have to reinvent everything and give it a new twist,” she adds.
For example, the main lobby showcases a profound fusion of modern culture and Filipino folk elements. The organic theme is apparent through the compelling vertical wall with flora-inspired covering and orchid metal sculptures accentuated by warm lights, a stunning carpet that contrasts with the ivory floor, and minimalist furniture paired with bright cushions. All these come together in a picture of elegance befitting a modern homeowner.
Botanika stays true to its brand of fine living in the resort-style architecture of its luxury pools. This is the handiwork of AECOM Singapore, the same team behind iconic structures such as Marina Bay and Greater Southern Waterfront.
“We studied closely how to plan the levels of the pool, its distance to the units, even the lapping distance,” says AECOM director Armando Casibang. “The result is this beautifully crafted pool inspired by a bud. It came out naturally.”
For Casibang, it’s not just about designing, but the sensations people go through when they step into a space. “We want to capture their emotion and perception, which is what we aimed to do at Botanika,” he says.
A vision of modern condominium living, with its world-class architectural design and top-notch amenities, Botanika Nature Residences is the home you truly deserve.