Transform an urban enclave into a family sanctuary

Amenities that are well-designed, such as those in the Shang Residences at Wack Wack, make you feel at home even outside your unit space. —CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS

White picket fences, a vast yard, and a gigantic country house—these images form the classic definition of a suburban family home.

It’s a dream that many of us strive for but rarely pursue for reasons of practicality and convenience. After all, maintaining the dream in a rural setting can be such a chore. Also, many of us choose to live closer to the city, where quality schools and offices are often more accessible.

For these reasons, many Filipino families today turn to condominiums and apartments to build their family homes in the city. While it’s a far cry from the classic country dream house, there are still numerous ways you can turn these urban dwellings into your family’s ultimate haven.

Here are some tips on how to create your ideal home in the city, even if you don’t have the suburban elements to accompany it.

Many luxury condominiums, such as the Haraya Residences by SPI, offer generous balcony space where you can cultivate plants and enjoy green living.

Keep things clean

The biggest advantage of condominium living is its ease of maintenance.

A city unit is easier to clean regularly compared to a traditional house. Whether you prescribe to a minimalist aesthetic or an eclectic style, make cleaning and organizing a habit.

Teach all members of the family (yep, even the kids!) to throw the trash, clean the dishes, and report equipment breakdowns promptly. If time is an issue, consider getting some outside help from third-party providers or the building management.

For a reasonable fee, you’ll be able to keep your home in great shape through the expertise of professional cleaners or maintenance workers.

Create green nooks

Some people criticize condominiums for their lack of garden space or natural elements.

Many modern city homes, however, are now designed to cater to a more natural environment that is smaller and easier to manage. Plant box provisions and generous balcony spaces give you areas where you can set up an indoor garden.

Even indoor plants can thrive in urban spaces and help improve air quality, reduce pests, and offer other awesome benefits.

For instance, Haraya Residences by Shang Properties Inc. (SPI) provides loggias, which are Italian-inspired outdoor lounges that act as an extension of the living room.

These spaces give you a breathing space where you can enjoy picturesque views, natural ventilation, and sunny moments even in the middle of the bustling city. It’s a great place to satisfy your green thumb, bond with your pet, or just relax for a minute without having to leave urban comforts behind.

Outdoor spaces such as this swimming pool in the Shang Summit offer an opportunity for you and your family to bond in urban settings.

Personalize your spaces

Even if condominium units are created as modular spaces, you can still customize it to make it your own.

Whether you choose to simply repaint your unit or do a major renovation, many city dwellings are designed to accommodate personalized touches for the benefit of their owners.

It’s usually easier to renovate within condominiums versus ground-up homes, as property management enforces guidelines that help ensure the structural integrity of your home.

Furthermore, if you elect to go with a luxury property management, the services you can expect are top-par. Whereas standard property management offers basic repairs, rent collection and general security provision, a luxury service provider gives you access to a roster of well-established contractors and professional services to carry out the changes.

For example, property management groups in Shang Properties’ buildings are known for their commitment to quality. Even the turnover finishes you can expect from Shang Properties developments meet high standards with state-of-the-art finishes and custom-built systems.

Many condominiums, such as the upcoming Shang Summit, offer exclusive amenities that cater to even the youngest of your family members.

Expand your home with the right amenities

In condominiums, your home does not stop at your unit’s entrance.

Amenities such as swimming pools, fitness centers, playgrounds, and game rooms, are an extension of your living areas too. Your condominium dues ensure the upkeep of these shared provisions and you have a right to use them for your benefit.

Condominiums, however, are not built equally.

Some developers build projects a bit better than others do, with amenities rivaling those offered by excellent resorts or hotels.

Shang Residences at Wack Wack, for example, gives its residents tranquil wellness spaces, generous living units, and gorgeous views of the nearby golf club. These offerings elevate the project above other developments in the area, giving your family a great sanctuary to come home to.

Maximize city living

Even if you do not live in the suburbs, you can still get your dream home in the city with the right developer.

By making the most of the provisions, services, and amenities made available to you, you can build an ideal place to raise a family amid an urban environment.

Be creative and explore the offerings provided in your city home. Even against a busy backdrop, your family can still feel loved and secured with a city home built to cater to their needs and more.

References: https://harayaresidences.com, www.shangresidencesatwackwack.com, https://shangsummit.com, Leaders in Luxury Shang Properties

Ar. Vittoria Mawis-Aliston

A Filipino architect who has a Master's Degree in Interior Design of Commercial Spaces from IED Barcelona, Spain and with twelve years' worth of experience under the tutelage of Filipino architectural firms.