http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid108/pa2459dd3b8aa1163bec3d25e51ac15f6/f94f3c49.jpg

Philtown, Metroclub to build high-rise condo in Makati

The Philippine Star 03/10/2004


Philippine Townships Inc. (Philtown), the property subsidiary of food giant RFM Corp. has signed an agreement with The Metropolitan Club (Metroclub) to build a high-rise residential condominium on the club’s property in Makati, along with a plan for the extensive redevelopment of the club’s sports facilities.

This was disclosed during the project launching ceremonies yesterday by Philtown chairman and CEO Jose A. Concepcion III and Metroclub chairman Carlos C. Syquia.

To be called The Metropolitan, the landmark project will rise on the Metroclub compound on Estrella St. in Makati, directly fronting the Rockwell commercial area. It will also offer prospective residents the use of a wide range of athletic and recreational amenities to be redeveloped by Metroclub for its members.

Concepcion said the newest project of Philtown will bear the same hallmarks of quality and competitive value, as demonstrated by its track record in the One McKinley Place and Fairways Tower projects in the Bonifacio Global City.

"We always think through and try to get the best elements together for our project, so that the final product is something that can truly and proudly serve as a home for each buyer," Concepcion said.

He said Philtown has commissioned the renowned architectural firm of Recio Casas to prepare the master development plan for the project. The Metropolitan will be 35-storey high, and consist of studio, one- and two-bedroom units, each of which will come with the privilege to use the facilities of Metroclub.

The master plan also provides for the upgrading and redevelopment of Metroclub facilities. Syquia said Metroclub has agreed with Philtown in creating "a full sports and athletic club" which will feature tennis, badminton and basketball courts, lap and kiddie swimming pools, bowling alleys, billiards, a fully-equipped gym, exercise and fitness rooms for pilates, yoga, spinning, kick-boxing, aerobics, sports rehab and others. It will also have function rooms and facilities for causal and al-fresco dining.

The project is located right across the street from the Rockwell Power Plant Mall, giving prospective residents the convenience of immediate access to a variety of clothing and accessory shops, appliances and furniture stores, bookstores, grocery, hardware and drugstores, and dining and entertainment outlets.

well it's a good start for rebuilding.

maybe you should have put this in the super u/c thread.. but it's not there.

you wanna rebuild our super-uc thread again absent-minded?

Originally posted by renell

well it's a good start for rebuilding.

maybe you should have put this in the super u/c thread.. but it's not there.

you wanna rebuild our super-uc thread again absent-minded?

i'll try... is that the one with all the compilations of diff. u/c? what's the name of the thread? Super U/C?

i dunno the exact name. but no worries, no need to rush

anyways, what's the update on this one? is it proposed or already going up?

proposed so far...

that thing planning to be u/c soon? when's the proposed date?

it' doesnt look so good to me. i find it ugly. sorry to say that. the first sentence i used is too weak. i need the second one.

and the name!!! the metropolitan. :bash:

nevermind.

Originally posted by weirdo

it' doesnt look so good to me. i find it ugly. sorry to say that. the first sentence i used is too weak. i need the second one.


Funny you said that.
The first sentence used in the article describing the building is also weak. Look:

Philippine Townships Inc. (Philtown), the property subsidiary of food giant RFM Corp. has signed an agreement with The Metropolitan Club (Metroclub) to build a high-rise residential condominium on the club’s property in Makati, along with a plan for the extensive redevelopment of the club’s sports facilities.


Philippiine Townships Inc. (Philtown), the property subsidiary of food giant RFM Corp. has signed...

Passive voice! Passive voice! This was printed in a national newspaper? They need to hire better copy editors.

Ok... I go back to my exam grading.

you guys are very observant on that, eh?
i used to do newswriting/sportswriting back in hi-school, but that's all...i havent done feature writing. all i knew was how to write a lead...body, etc etc.

btw Mike, "has signed" i guess is not passive voice. Passive voice will go something like ... "An agreement has been signed by blah blah blah..." and this is not a good way of starting off an article, indeed. haha...i'm off topic now.

the tower is still at preselling stage. location is one block away from power plant mall.

Yes, you're right Francis. How can I call myself a paper-reader.

Instead of the preterit (simple past tense), the writers of the article used past imperfect (uhoh... I'm getting my tenses all messed up. I need to take grammar again so I don't misgrade my students). :)

Off topic... let's get back on.

LOL. i guess u mean past perfect tense. there's no such thing as imperfect tense, is there? :D
haha...i think i also need some grammar honing now.
we didnt have any grammar course bk in college. with my course, it wasn't a big deal after all. (funny how the u/c thread could go as astray as discussion on grammar!:D).

I think the headline is also wrong. I know this rule in journalism that headlines should be in the present tense...whatever time the incident happened. Errr....wrong again. that applies to past and present incidents. Ok, the headline is correct then.

this building is ok for me...i kinda like the green facade.

yeah... actually, it somehow looks better now to me than when I first saw it. But I still feel it is better made as an office building...

I agree, it looks more like an office building then a residential one.

it looks fat, hope it will be tall. or this will be a eyesore beside Joya Lofts and Manansala

Originally posted by renell

it looks fat, hope it will be tall. or this will be a eyesore beside Joya Lofts and Manansala

yup... exactly why I would want it some other place than in Rockwell. they've got some of the best buildings (to me) there...

Just how near will this be to Rockwell? Like Renell and absent, i'm worried it will spoil Rockwell's outlook.

one block away from Power Plant mall.

i agree....the building design is too boxy. reminds me of buildings built in the 80's where it is so square and plain. i guess they want to maximize the usuble area.

if they broke the building into 2 like joya, it would look a lot better.

well i had a close look with this one, and it's not quite fat as i thought it would be... it's quite cool actually. though its the odd one out with Joya Lofts and Manasala

Perspective
http://edmundtanso.smugmug.com/photos/3301268-L.jpg

Site Plan
http://edmundtanso.smugmug.com/photos/3301270-L.jpg

Site Plan
http://edmundtanso.smugmug.com/photos/3301271-L.jpg

Typical Studio
http://edmundtanso.smugmug.com/photos/3301274-L.jpg

Typical 1 Bedroom
http://edmundtanso.smugmug.com/photos/3301277-L.jpg

Typical 2 Bedroom
http://edmundtanso.smugmug.com/photos/3301282-L.jpg

Thanks for that...gives us a better understanding of the development and where it's located.

your welcome! the site plan bigger than rockwell but i dont think so. lot of spaces are for sprorts and recreation, which is good.

there's only one skyscraper, while Rockwell has around 10 planned to a mall

yeah that map is misleading. It shows that Rockwell is smaller than Metropolitan. Oh well. At least the metropolitan will have other facilities besides the building itself.

that map is most likely enlarged to show potential buyers the lot they will be able to use when they buy units.

i dont like the presentation they have on the web, it looks very cheap! even the floor plans are directly taken from autocadd, you could see the lines colors.

i still think its a very massive building, they could have done a better design =) does anyone knows the architect?

yeah it is quite massive. Will prolly block most of Rockwell from Ortigas:D

yeah, i still dont like the massiveness of metropolitan.

latest update: it's now about 30% sold. that's fast. it has just been launched less than 2 months ago...i guess.

wow! i guess beacause of the location and price, way cheaper than rockwell and it's just right across it. well, guess we expect to see the surrounding of rockwell to be developed! that's great! right across the pasig river pa! =)

architect is Recio & Casas (sp?)

thanks francis, yeah you got the spelling right. hmm...i thought they would do a better design =(

30% is quite fast, but i've seen some condos sell faster:D

i think this is selling fast because of it's location, the design is plain

FYI, A friend from Philtown told me last friday that this is already 90% sold out.

hi! kevinp. welcome to the forum. we'll wait for more of your updates! :)

that's cool....thanks for the info kevinp.

are we seeing a more future residential boom? if the condo sales are going very good, we should see more new exciting residential projects.....yehey!

are you serious kevin P? there are a lot of units, how could this sell so fast? it has oversold Residences...which is only 60% sold as of two months ago. that's be a good news tho. hopefully, another project will be launched and to rise on that area. im guessing most buyers are based overseas...then construction should start now!

and i think the unit area is smaller so less priced =)

it looks fat, hope it will be tall. or this will be a eyesore beside Joya Lofts and Manansala

Ok, your wish is granted.
The Metropolitan is now 48 stories high, thanks to its new Sky Lofts which added floors to the building.
It is even taller than Rizal Tower which is 47 stories high.

Now it doesn't look like a midget in the Rockwell skyline (technically it's not part of Rockwell but it will really blend with the Rockwell skyline whether we like it or not) and it's massiveness (read:fatness) is now complemented by it's height.
Some elements were also added to the design like the glass thingy on every corner its of top and the vertical fin running on its sides.

Here's the ad from the newspaper.

Now you can reach the sky.
The Metropolitan Sky Lofts
Indulge in the sky-high space and extravagance with the highest edifice rising across Rockwell

Breathtaking
Unparalleled sight of the city from 20ft. full view glass windows. Corner units with panoramic three-quarter view from three wiindow sides.

Towering
The tallest in the block, you feel the sky surround you.

Private
Select floors, specially appointed with your own exclusive elevator

Imaginative
Top interior designer Ed Calma shows how you can express your creativity and transform a bare unit into your very own work of art.

Cutting Edge
Over 100 Sky Loft units in a world-class architectural landmark by renowned designers, Recio+Casas. Each unit uniquely designed to suit your lifestyle.

Affordable
Each Sky Loft unit surprisingly priced within reach.

Experience the glorious height of luxury living with The Metropolitan Sky Lofts.


And the photograph of the ad.
http://www.geocities.com/aaron_ofngol/metropolitan.txt

As compared to the old height(35 stories)
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid108/pa2459dd3b8aa1163bec3d25e51ac15f6/f94f3c49.jpg

are they serious when they say you can get a unit for as low as $200/mo? because that's really inexpensive for an apartment in a cbd. a new york apartment costs around $1300/mo and that's for a 1 bedroom in a bad neighborhood. heck, a santa cruz, california apartment costs $1400/mo for a 2 bedroom unit. $200/mo is so inexpensive comparatively.

now i like the design better, or maybe because it is a night rendering of the building =)

so how big are the units and how affordable? as stated on the AD?

i beleive the prices of the units are cheaper than units in rockwell, at the same time the units are very tiny here.

wow... ok, now that is nice!! so much sleeker. now marginally passes the standards for Rockwell. hahaha....! thank goodness they redesigned it...

The renderings of the units look good as well. I'll ask my friend from Philtown again regarding how much of this building is already sold.

I'd love to have one of those skylofts!

Looks great! This newer rendering looks better than the original green one. Other than being a night rendering, there are some design changes if you look closely.

yes there are some changes which makes it look better, i would like to see a day rendering

http://www.geocities.com/csbrocks_hunter/skylofts.jpg

I remeber Joey Concepcion (Chairman of RFM and Philtown, and son of Jose "Joecon" Concepcion) saying that after One Mckinley Place, he'll never build another condominium again. Well, right now, he's building two new ones.

why not? One McKinley was a success?

naisip ko lang...hindi ba medyo nanadaraya yung metropolitan....kasi....yung urban planning ng rockwell was done to have only a certain amount of traffic....tapos, pag nagkataon...makikigamit ng kalsada yung mga unit owner ng metropolitan....masisira yung urban planning ng rockwell....

oo nga malaki utang na loob ng Metropolitan sa Rockwell. Kung wala ang Rockwell walang Metropolitan kasi ang strength ng Metropolitan eh yung location niya across Rockwell. Guguluhin din ng Metropolitan yung Rockwell skyline pag pangit yung finished tower. Sabi pa naman sa ad ng Rockwell parang ganito, "Here the marvel of urban planning is seen. Where towers abound but theres a lot of space between them..." tapos bigla na lang siyang itatayo malapit na malapit sa Manansala.

Maswerte rin yung future residents nito kasi ma-eenjoy nila yung view ng Rockwell kahit technically eh hindi naman sila nakatira sa Rockwell, sa gilid lang. hehe

so yung Metropolitan, along Estrella St sya?, malapit na sa JP Rizal?... I guess it will not much have an effect to traffic, unless they'll use the main gateway ng Rockwell and not ung JP Rizal or EDSA exits... well I hope maganda nga ang result nito kasi the rendering doesn't look good much...

so yung Metropolitan, along Estrella St sya?, malapit na sa JP Rizal?... I guess it will not much have an effect to traffic, unless they'll use the main gateway ng Rockwell and not ung JP Rizal or EDSA exits... well I hope maganda nga ang result nito kasi the rendering doesn't look good much...
what do you expect...syempre the residents of metropolitan would use the same road path ng rockwell residents

Hi guys, I just stumbled into this site and thread. I think it's really nice and interesting. As for this thread, I can answer a lot of your questions since I'm a unit owner of this project. Been shopping around for a nice place for me to live in, 5 years from now. Just drop me a line if you have any questions or comments.

One simple question if you can answer, thanks.

Have you compared the floor height of the Metropolitan with other condominiums?

The approximate height is 9 feet. I looked at the other model units from other developers that sell at the same price range and for what its worth, I think the ceiling height is perfect. The model units of this building can be seen at the ground level of One McKinley Place at the Fort.

Ok, thanks for the info.
How 'bout the number of floors?

http://www.geocities.com/aaron_ofngol/metropolitan.txt
From this recent rendering in the newspaper - the one which includes the Sky Lofts, the floor count is 48 stories, add to that the glass thingy on top which is a little more than two stories in height. I just wanted to confirm if that floor count is right.

I was told it would be 50 floors. No basement. Makes building costs lower I suppose.

Ok, another question. :colgate: In that floor count, did they count the Loft units as a single floor, or were they counted as two floors?

As two floors.

One more question :colgate: When will construction start?

Ground breaking is in the first quarter of 2005. Supposed to be finished in 2008. We'll see, because my contract states that if the developer doesn't finish the project on time, we are guaranteed a rebate of 3% of the purchase price of the unit. But it excludes a 6 month grace period for any delays with the project.

Ok, good for you, but it's only 3 percent? So how much would that 3% be?

Around P140,000 for the 6 months after the grace period. Then another 3% for every six months that the project is delayed. In short, the longer the delay, the unit owners get more rebates. It can get quite complicated. :)

Malaki na rin pala, I guess.

I was told it would be 50 floors. No basement. Makes building costs lower I suppose.

damn... that's tall. I thought it was like 36. How many of those 50 floors would be actually used for the units? or how many floors are used for recreational, office or maintenance purposes?

The ground will have 4 commercial units, a lobby with 4 elevators from ground to floor 34. Then there are 2 sky lifts for the sky lofts from the Ground to the 35th-50th floors.
Then the athletic club is a completely free-standing structure beside the residential tower. The 3 bedroom lofts start at P10 million for a 200sqm area. I got a 1 bedroom unit. If I had more money, I would buy the loft. Oh well.

Is it along Strella gateway from EDSA or near JP Rizal? I think it's near EDSA.

Metropolitan Tower and Club's address is Estrella Street, corners Gumamela and Amapola Streets
Then Estrella runs perpendicular to EDSA and JP Rizal. So the problem is that if and when the Lopezes and DOTC build the bridge connecting Estrella Street to Mandaluyong's Noah's Arc Sugar plant over the Pasig river, the traffic overflow will clog Estrella Street, making the Rockwell traffic scheme a disaster whether or not this project is situated across Rockwell or not.

So any height estimates? 170-180m? :)

Of the building? I don't know. Sorry. But the loft's floor to ceiling measurement is 6.71 meters in height.

Ok, from what I understand from floors 2-34 it's 9 feet... so that's 2.74m, then from 35 to 50 its 6.71m per 2 floors. so that's 16 floors worth of Sky Lofts

33 x 2.74 = 90.42
16 x 6.71 = 107.36

That adds up to 197.78.

Anyone willing to brush up on those calculations, give or take some wrong bits. Thanks :)

197m is pretty tall for that area... Not bad at all.

Good job Renell. the official math wizard of SSC. However, did you count the floor to ceiling height? what about the floors in beetween the spaces? you should add up about 0.20 m for each floor. and count the floor to floor height instead. :D

wow.. that would be a tall one.. anyways... so this will block the view of Rockwell right? from EDSA...

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid150/pe5d1eeb49b621da47e2f90903212938f/f5d94409.jpg

This building will rise around the mid-part of this picture... am I right?

I thought it will rise to the left of Manasala from that view?

I'm impressed with the calculations! Anyway, yes it would be at the left side of the Manansala from that view.

ohhh.. so it will be at the left side.. nice... it wouldn't block Rockwell's view... but we'll still have to wait for the construction of Joya.... now.. Joya.. will be on the right of Manansala from that picture right?

yes, just to the right of Nestle in that photo (if you can see the small building)

Most likely it will block Rizal Tower.

Yeah Joya Towers are quite large and there are two of them...so they will most likely block Rizal Tower from the north.

bump.

any new updates on this one would be appreciated.

Well those who are interested to know more about, see more about, or anything, Philtown has a party on February 2, 2005 at 6PM with a Feng Shui master and dragon dancers to welcome the Chinese New Year. It's at the EDGE showroom on the G/F of One McKinley Place, Fort Bonifacio. I'll be there!

On updates, they're 65% sold. The ground breaking will be very soon...like the first quarter of this year. Hopefully this February or March.

As for the athletic club, I saw the building shrouded in plywood. Perhaps they've started working on the renovations. My agent told me that I can start using the club by the last quarter of this year! Yipee! :)

FYI: According to my agent, The Metropolitan has moved it's groundbreaking to the last quarter of this year. This is due to the request of the Metropolitan Atheltic Club to delay the groundbreaking because of events that are scheduled in the premises. I don't really buy it but I'm not freaking out yet. If they delay this one more time, I'd probably start making formal complaints. The tower will be finished by the last quarter of 2008 since the building is taller than the original design.

The official number of floors is 48. Not 50 as I was earlier told.

Hope this clears things for potential and existing buyers.

Right ok thanks for that info. :)

I'm guessing this one hasn't fully sold yet because I still see it in philstar ads.

Yeah, and they increased the height so there's more (Skyloft) units to sell.

Are those the skylofts discussed before in the same thread?:D And has there been a day-time rendering of the taller version yet?

We only discussed its height and dimensions but that's it. As for the day-time rendering, Recio+Casas has not presented one to the public.

I saw a scale model of this in the paper, the one with the increased height.
I think it's displayed at The Edge showroom in One McKinley Place.

does anyone know the price range of the skylofts?...also for the 1 and 2 bed units?>...just curious... :)

so what % of units have been sold so far?

i guess no one does......

see below

Here's the scope. Officially the Blg. has 47 storeys 48flr being the helipad. 4 glass corners lighted land mark height will rival those in Rockwell. This was an update from the original 35 storeys because of the demand. redesign of the bldg. was done, pics are available in previous postings. Most of the 2 bedrooms w/ maids quarters are almost sold out and maybe all gone by time of this posting. 1 bedrooms still available but selling real fast, good flrs are almost gone. Skylofts are still available starts from flrs. 35 to 47, 3 bedrooms skylofts are selling fast. Parking from 2-6 flr. 7flr. garden units.

MAC sports center is on construction, will re-open latter part of the year, includes competition lap pool, kids pool, massage area, sports bar and shop, day care center, bowling alley,billards, badmintons courts, glass shaded basketball courts, pilates,dojo, spining, fitness and aerobics areas, dinning halls, meeting rooms, which is exclusive and separate structure adjacent to the tower and not those you'll find as in a hotel setting. The MAC sport resort will be available for owners to use prior to bldg construction.

New VCD produced showing the new bldg and sky lofts w/ specific details and 3D renderings and yes during day light is available. IT IS ONE VERY IMPRESSIVE PIECE OF ARCHITECTURE at the Rockwell skyline. It is designed as an "H" shape bldg. This is a grand luxury glass tower property! from the builders of One Mackinnley. Do not be surprise if this will be the landmark bldg. looking over Rockwell (their view will be blocked anyways..heh..heh..)and it will be envied by the neighbors across the street. I know co'z I invested 2 separate property units, 1 bedroom and 2 bedroom units, I did my home work. Question you need to ask your self. Would you like your property that has a public mall in its premises? with over priced units or a property in an exclusive sports resort and just walk across the street and use all what Rockwell can provide, Skyloft prices rival those at Rockwell comparable at 1 standard bedroom. Go figure. They really got caught off guard. Try to research Recio+Casas , the architects of the Metropolitan in relation to the Rockwell builders. You'll be surprise what you may find out. Laters.

^ Sweet info man. Cheers.

cool...i must agree with that. or is that how you sell the units? you got a big point there SanFranciscan.

yeah, you get to benefit from almost all that Rockwell Center has to offer (at a fraction of price of the Rockwell condos), Powerplant is just around the corner, although the Rockwell condo residents get a tunnel connected to Powerplant.

From my agent: Groundbreaking of the Metropolitan Athletic Club has begun. Digging beside the pool has actually started last week and today is the official ceremony with all the board members. Groundbreaking for the tower is still on December 2005.

How much are they selling the packages here anyway? on an absolute and per sq.m. basis. (net please) and their parking.

My agent said 78K to 79K per sqm.

how many people speak spanish in Philippine?

i heard that mostly ang mga pari needs to speak fluent spanish b4 they graduated because they dont know where they gonna b thrown to mostly in hispanic village of south amerkano.

update: there was a feature on The Metropolitan in The Philippine Star today and they said Philtown's already broken ground for this one.

the revisions they made to the design make it so much more appealing now than when they first released the renderings and I think it does deserve a spot in the Rockwell skyline now... it used to look so awkward. but I think the gray/black-ish color and the added height makes it look better.

i heard that mostly ang mga pari needs to speak fluent spanish b4 they graduated because they dont know where they gonna b thrown to mostly in hispanic village of south amerkano.

why would they put filipino priests in South America when obviously we need priests in other parts of our own country?

hello to everyone in this thread. I found this thread by accident searching the web on rockwell condos and I am curious why the interest in all the specs of the buildings in and around manila. I purchased a unit at Rockwell last year and just wondering and perhaps learn from this thread as well details of the unit I purchased (Joya). Thx.

hello there @curious. welcome! we have a thread here about Joya. here's the link: Joya Lofts and Towers at Rockwell Center, Makati (http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=150057)

thx mhe-ann, whats the interest though with all the high-rises? and whats up with the calculations of square footage? what am I missing?

I read in th inquirer a while ago in one of those rumor columns that the Lopezes have hired architects to build a new set of towers within rockwell, across the street from the Metropolitan. The orders given to these architects are to "block the manila bay view of the philtown condo across the street" :D

That's so rude.

I read in th inquirer a while ago in one of those rumor columns that the Lopezes have hired architects to build a new set of towers within rockwell, across the street from the Metropolitan. The orders given to these architects are to "block the manila bay view of the philtown condo across the street" :D

yeah, that's kinda evil but as long as the new towers by the Lopezes are better-looking then that's fine :D could it be the much-awaited Lopez Tower? maybe not coz u said a "set of towers".

here it is, but really developers do this all the time, you really think ALI and SM do not do this kinda thing

from cocktales

Heard through the grapevine

ROCKWELL has hired the Miami-based Arquitectonica design consultants for its new block of towers that would rise at the corner of Estrella Street and Rockwell Drive, where the Rockwell executive offices are now.

Part of Arquitectonica's marching orders is to ensure that the new high-rises would block the Manila Bay view of the competing Philtown condo across the street.

E-mail: cocktales_pdi@yahoo.com or cocktales_pdi@hotmail.com

why would they put filipino priests in South America when obviously we need priests in other parts of our own country?


it's true though, I once went to Paraguay and asked around if there were any filipinos and voila the girl I was talking to was thing that their padre was filipino


we're everywhere :cheers:

actually the funny thing about the blocking thing is , if they're blocking metropolitan, then that means metropolitan is also blocking their view!

actually the funny thing about the blocking thing is , if they're blocking metropolitan, then that means metropolitan is also blocking their view!

have a good point there :)

here it is, but really developers do this all the time, you really think ALI and SM do not do this kinda thing


E-mail: cocktales_pdi@yahoo.com or cocktales_pdi@hotmail.com
what specific examples

actually the funny thing about the blocking thing is , if they're blocking metropolitan, then that means metropolitan is also blocking their view!

haha, that was what I was also thinking last night. :lol:
They block Metropolitan's Manila Bay view and their view (of BGC?) also gets blocked.
But I guess the bay is more interesting than BGC, so Rockwell wins again this time.
I guess that's the price to pay for using the nearby Rockwell as one of their selling "features".

These "blocking" games are so funny, but not for the residents of those future towers.

haha, that was what I was also thinking last night. :lol:
They block Metropolitan's Manila Bay view and their view (of BGC?) also gets blocked.
But I guess the bay is more interesting than BGC, so Rockwell wins again this time.
I guess that's the price to pay for using the nearby Rockwell as one of their selling "features".

These "blocking" games are so funny, but not for the residents of those future towers.
yeah too bad for the first four towers....their view will be blocked by the new towers the lopezes wants to use to block metropolitan

I agree, Manila Bay's view is better than BGC. more relaxing to see.

yeah, that's kinda evil but as long as the new towers by the Lopezes are better-looking then that's fine :D could it be the much-awaited Lopez Tower? maybe not coz u said a "set of towers".

Lopez Tower is far from that location. It's located at the Pasig river side of Rockwell just behind Powerplant Mall.

I wonder what the Metropolitans will say about this "blocking" issue.
We have a couple of Metropolitan buyers here.
Any spokesperson for the buyers. :D

A map showing where the new towers will be located in relation to Metropolitan. Sorry, it's the latest Rockwell map that I can get.

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b358/thomasian/Rockwell.jpg

If this news is reliable, I should think that the Lopezes would build towers that could be taller than Metropolitan. Are we expecting 50+ storey (could be 60 storeys?)towers to rise at the corner of Estrella Avenue and Rockwell Drive? This should be very interesting for us skyscraper watchers. Any words on this from Thomasian? Thanks in advance.

cocktales (the source of the news) can be quite reliable although the news can somtimes be rumor-based. Nevertheless there can still be some truth in this.

Anyway, I don't think they'll build 50+ storey towers. They can't even build Lopez Tower in the first place.

@thomasian, thanks for bringing that image back up again, I believe the turqoise buildings you highlighted will be quite tall, I reckon they're office buildings. That's what I saw when I saw a Rockwell masterplan model. However they could choose to change plans in the future.

what specific examples
For example, I understand from the Cathay Land Guys that when they were trying to develop South Forbes, these guys were trying to block the frontage along the highway in order to get leverage so their subdivision at the back could get access to the sta rosa road instead of the 10 km drive through the technopark (can't remember the name - is it south ville or something), stuff like that very common, even the greenfield guys have interesting stories and they are partners!

For example, I understand from the Cathay Land Guys that when they were trying to develop South Forbes, these guys were trying to block the frontage along the highway in order to get leverage so their subdivision at the back could get access to the sta rosa road instead of the 10 km drive through the technopark (can't remember the name - is it south ville or something), stuff like that very common, even the greenfield guys have interesting stories and they are partners!

Anyway, guys, the Lopezez have all the right to build whatever buildings or towers they want to build on their property. I don't remember there is such a law in the Philippines that prohibits developers, builders, etc. from erecting buildings that would block the view of their neighbors. What could be happening right now in that part of Rockwell is a stiff competition between the Lopezez and the Concepcions in terms of luring prospective condominium buyers/locators to buy which property. Since the Lopezez have the edge over the Concepcions on landstocks in that part of Makati, the best they (the Concepcions) could do is buy out the adjacent properties in the area for future high rise developments.

haha, that was what I was also thinking last night. :lol:
They block Metropolitan's Manila Bay view and their view (of BGC?) also gets blocked.
But I guess the bay is more interesting than BGC, so Rockwell wins again this time.
I guess that's the price to pay for using the nearby Rockwell as one of their selling "features".

These "blocking" games are so funny, but not for the residents of those future towers.

this is really funny!!!
or Metropolitan could be blocking the Laguna Bay view of Rockwell as well. or the sunrise view. Hahaha. Some people would prefer the sunrise view over the sunset. But some people do not really care about the views. as long as they have a view of the outside. Metropolitan still has the edge of having those sports facilities that you could avail at reasonable price. What Rockwell could do to make the blocking effective is to build an expansive tower to completely block the view, like that of Pacific Plaza Twins. Let the game begin!!!

people should realize that the future towers to rise will be built with another end in mind. occupants of these tower will also have a blocked view unless they will make these towers really really hight. but hey, metropolitan will not block 360 degrees of their view. they still have Pasig River to look at to.

Here's the scope. Officially the Blg. has 47 storeys 48flr being the helipad. 4 glass corners lighted land mark height will rival those in Rockwell. This was an update from the original 35 storeys because of the demand. redesign of the bldg. was done, pics are available in previous postings. Most of the 2 bedrooms w/ maids quarters are almost sold out and maybe all gone by time of this posting. 1 bedrooms still available but selling real fast, good flrs are almost gone. Skylofts are still available starts from flrs. 35 to 47, 3 bedrooms skylofts are selling fast. Parking from 2-6 flr. 7flr. garden units.

MAC sports center is on construction, will re-open latter part of the year, includes competition lap pool, kids pool, massage area, sports bar and shop, day care center, bowling alley,billards, badmintons courts, glass shaded basketball courts, pilates,dojo, spining, fitness and aerobics areas, dinning halls, meeting rooms, which is exclusive and separate structure adjacent to the tower and not those you'll find as in a hotel setting. The MAC sport resort will be available for owners to use prior to bldg construction.

New VCD produced showing the new bldg and sky lofts w/ specific details and 3D renderings and yes during day light is available. IT IS ONE VERY IMPRESSIVE PIECE OF ARCHITECTURE at the Rockwell skyline. It is designed as an "H" shape bldg. This is a grand luxury glass tower property! from the builders of One Mackinnley. Do not be surprise if this will be the landmark bldg. looking over Rockwell (their view will be blocked anyways..heh..heh..)and it will be envied by the neighbors across the street. I know co'z I invested 2 separate property units, 1 bedroom and 2 bedroom units, I did my home work. Question you need to ask your self. Would you like your property that has a public mall in its premises? with over priced units or a property in an exclusive sports resort and just walk across the street and use all what Rockwell can provide, Skyloft prices rival those at Rockwell comparable at 1 standard bedroom. Go figure. They really got caught off guard. Try to research Recio+Casas , the architects of the Metropolitan in relation to the Rockwell builders. You'll be surprise what you may find out. Laters.
San Franciscan. No more than in Real Estate where the expression goes "you get what you pay for" is more true. The metropolitan will be a nice place to live and no doubt a good investment. However, the mere fact alone that the Metropolitan needs to advertise as "beside Rockwell" says a lot. Is it not enough that the Metropolitan alone should speak for itself...I guess not. A stones throw away from Rockwell and yet they could not charge as much as Rockwell...why is that? People who bought at Rockwell did pay premium price, they would however be able to sell at premium price as well. If I were a buyer and a seller from the Metropolitan priced a unit as much as comparable unit at Rockwell I simply would go to Rockwell then. ANALOGY. I could be driving a honda civic and put all the accessories there is and all the works to get 200HP out of it. However, everything said and done its still a honda civic. When a bimmer pulls beside me on a red light, I still would feel like Im driving a civic. Magallanes village is a stones throw away from Dasmarinas Village but I do not see prices of homes appreciating as much as Dasmarinas or is it more coveted?

If buyers of Metropolitan are proud to have bought a unit here thats well an good. If however buyers would be using the words and phrases as "Rockwell" and "its facilities", "being across the street", etc. it seems to me they already were envying residents of rockwell to begin with which facilitated the decision of buying at Metropolitan. Hmmmm....

Lopez Tower is far from that location. It's located at the Pasig river side of Rockwell just behind Powerplant Mall.

I wonder what the Metropolitans will say about this "blocking" issue.
We have a couple of Metropolitan buyers here.
Any spokesperson for the buyers. :D
overall swerte pa rin yung metropolitan.........ang ganda kaya ng view nya puro glass and steel buildings...

Since the Lopezez have the edge over the Concepcions on landstocks in that part of Makati, the best they (the Concepcions) could do is buy out the adjacent properties in the area for future high rise developments.
wala na cguro silang mabibili na adjacent lot

Sa totoo lang, the lopez'es are pikon that they invested so much money to develop the whole area and these guys are nakikirideon lang. Then they're using the selling the points of their own investment to sell their condo and then underprice them pa! Linuto sa sariling mantika so to speak, anyway there's definitely nothing illegal about the whole thing, more like "WOW :bleep: LABO MO MAN :wtf: ", well in real estate development as in love and war, all's fair :baeh3: :banana2: :baeh3:

I think the point was all together missed. From a business stand point both are good investments, just a matter of which would appreciate more. From the landowners point of view ( a point more missed IMO) I do not see them antagonized (term used "pikon) at all. Rockwell is selling very well and holding their own so the Lopezes are happy and laughing to the bank (I would know). So seriously, if thats the kind'a oil (money)I will be swimming in, heat up the pan and start frying!

oh and by the way, real estate is a business. If you know BUSINESS, you would know it is never fair. A successful businessman has to a certain degree be shrewd.

A buyer of Metropolitan says "why would anyone live within proximity of the mall and pay premium price" and yet he acknowledges the fact that a selling point of Metropolitan is that its residents would be able to use the facilities (the mall)...duh! I have several properties in the US, however I would love to be able to live across the Stanford Mall but pricey...at least I call a spade a spade. Gas prices in Manila are outrageous and yet I see people driving in Porsche Cayennes in EDSA sitting idle in traffic. Are they not smart for wasting all that gas? Heck no! they have money to burn...! and some of us dont! Now thats not a crime.

I understand the point, but I'm making a different point, with regards the cocktales article. Assuming it's correct, it's obvious that the lopezes are reacting to Metropolitan and how the undercutting hurts them. It's not a comment on the relative value of each unit as an investment. But if as a developer you tell your architect to block another guy's view obviously you treat them as a threat!

business is just that...nothing personal. I am quite confident these big boys are not threatened. If land is available and I can build, I would. As metropolitan did...if i block your view its nothing personal...just business.

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b358/thomasian/Rockwell.jpg
yung lot sa upper right na green hindi ba kasama pa rin yun sa rockwell

don sa site ng Lopez Centre sa masterplan, anong andon ngayon? just vacant lot?

don sa site ng Lopez Centre sa masterplan, anong andon ngayon? just vacant lot?
to be honest di pa ko nakakarating ng rockwell at all

Last time I was there it was a parking lot. Also in one of the vacant lots there is/there was a remnant of the old power plant.

don sa site ng Lopez Centre sa masterplan, anong andon ngayon? just vacant lot?

Its currently a parking lot.

thanks :D

-ty

Hi there, I was in the office of Rockwell Center and I did see a building that looks very similar to The Manansala Tower which will indeed block the view of The Metropolitan. I would feel sad that my view (27th floor, North Wing of The Metropolitan) will be covered by a building. I'll just think of the positive that if and when the inevitable happens...I'll have a direct of view of a beautiful Arquitectonica designed structure and that my unit will appreciate in value because of such strong developments in the area. With all the bickering here about who's in a better situation (Lopez' or Concepcions) I think we should all be happy that buildings are still sprouting and I'm glad that I'm going to be living in the thick of all these developments. So let's just all be good and friendly neighbors to each other and perhaps we can all enjoy each others' buildings. I would invite my neighbors in Rockwell to our club and show them their apartment from my window. It should be a fun and interesting future for everyone in that area of Makati. Don't you think?! :)

I think it's still a good development since the area is good.

Yeah, what a good attitude there Metropolitan Boy. You probably will have a view of your neighbors, i mean the people who live in these condos. After all, people are the ones who make a city alive. right?

Hi there, I was in the office of Rockwell Center and I did see a building that looks very similar to The Manansala Tower which will indeed block the view of The Metropolitan. I would feel sad that my view (27th floor, North Wing of The Metropolitan) will be covered by a building. I'll just think of the positive that if and when the inevitable happens...I'll have a direct of view of a beautiful Arquitectonica designed structure and that my unit will appreciate in value because of such strong developments in the area. With all the bickering here about who's in a better situation (Lopez' or Concepcions) I think we should all be happy that buildings are still sprouting and I'm glad that I'm going to be living in the thick of all these developments. So let's just all be good and friendly neighbors to each other and perhaps we can all enjoy each others' buildings. I would invite my neighbors in Rockwell to our club and show them their apartment from window. It should be a fun and interesting future for everyone in that area of Makati. Don't you think?! :)
Hi metropolitan boy. it is a good location. I used to live in the Baranggay right behind it.

Guys/Gals,
Have there been any traffic flow studies, provisions (widening roads etc.), and contingency plans made and to be implemented to ease the congestion created when all these condo developments in Rockwell are built. Mukha lang kasi the area will be so congested and so dense that there will be hell a traffic going in and out of this semi-isolated self-contained neighborhood especially during the weekdays (rush hour). It would be a shame if there was none.

Btw Philtown has been offering whatever units are left in the Metropolitan to investors willing to invest Php30M at Php55,000/SQM. which translates to about 500SQM total in any unit combination and several parking slots for Php30M. I don't know if this great (aggressively priced) offer is a result of its sales in Metropolitan leveling off and if the proposed Rockwell Gateway and Lopez buildings which could block its view has anything to do with it. For details about this offer (if they still have this offer), please contact Philtown. I myself found out about this when I attended Philtown's US roadshow in San Francisco California.

A background on Metropolitan's history.

It all started with the redevelopment plan for MetroClub.

Originally The Metro Club Tower, it have had four designs:

First is the one in the redevelopment plans for MetroClub
http://img398.imageshack.us/img398/3151/metroclub8oq.jpg

Second, it was renamed to Metro Place I, with a different design - 25 floors.
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/208648.jpg

Third, it became, The Metropolitan - 35 floors.
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid108/pa2459dd3b8aa1163bec3d25e51ac15f6/f94f3c49.jpg

Lastly, it's now simply called Metropolitan and with an increased height of 48 floors because of the added "Skyloft" units at the uppermost floors.
http://www.geocities.com/aaron_ofngol/metropolitan.txt

Metropolitan - http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=96010[/B]

hope i can see the last pic :D

Actually the first rendering gets my vote for best design. Sayang that they changed it in favor of the last rendering though this present one ranks second best looking imo. :)

I agree 3cr. Hi marites4. I was at a friend's condo in Manansala last night and I noticed that one of the elevators was leaking (perhaps from the air-conditioning) and the ceiling of the elevator banks still had masilya on it. I hope that the Rockwell management, polishes their new building because they have been announcing to the world how great their hand-over team is. Anyway, I saw the view of the Colgate-Palmolive compound and a portion of The MAC and I'm quite excited for the ground-breaking next month. :)

hmmm.. interesting history, I haven't had the brains or memory to keep up with it lol.

really adds up to the skyline...

yup, it adds nicely to the Rockwell Skyline even if it's not really a Rockwell Land Development. I hope to see a day rendering of it.

but i also like the 1st concept only if they make it taller...

October 1, 2005

http://www.philtown.net/images/cms/photo%201.JPG

http://www.philtown.net/images/cms/photo%202.JPG

galeng. Look at those trees behind they're so lush

are they building the swimming pool first?

Pau,
I think the pic with the pool construction is not for The Metropolitan condo residence itself but rather for the currently being renovated MAC (Metropolitan Athletic Club) which is located right beside The Metropolitan. The MAC will serve as The Metropolitan's activity/ammenities center according to Philtown. :)

are they building the swimming pool first?

Based on Thomasian's pic of the One Rockwell building model below, where will the Metropolitan and the Metropolitan Athletic Club be located in Estrella St.? I'm just trying to visualize how much of The Metropolitan's view will be blocked by Rockwell's new project(s).

Estrella st. on the right, Rockwell Drive on the bottom.
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/one-rockwell_150_1.jpg
Notice the Elevated Driveway?

heheh you can see a somewhat accurate representation of Metropolitan in the right of the building;)http://edmundtanso.smugmug.com/photos/43947060-L.jpg :runaway: Yup you're right. I do see the Metropolitan's outline at the right hand side. Almost talagang tinapatan yung Philtown building. Now I have a better understanding just how badly The Metropolitan's view will be blocked by One Rockwell just as One Rockwell's Greenhills/Ortigas view will be partially blocked by The Metropolitan as well. Guess it's tit for tat.

A background on Metropolitan's history.

It all started with the redevelopment plan for MetroClub.

Originally The Metro Club Tower, it have had four designs:

First is the one in the redevelopment plans for MetroClub
http://img398.imageshack.us/img398/3151/metroclub8oq.jpg

Second, it was renamed to Metro Place I, with a different design - 25 floors.
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/208648.jpg

Third, it became, The Metropolitan - 35 floors.
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid108/pa2459dd3b8aa1163bec3d25e51ac15f6/f94f3c49.jpg

Lastly, it's now simply called Metropolitan and with an increased height of 48 floors because of the added "Skyloft" units at the uppermost floors.
http://www.geocities.com/aaron_ofngol/metropolitan.txt

Metropolitan - http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=96010[/B]


type ko ung first design

That was the Palafox and Associates' design.

Newsbreak: Groundbreaking Ceremony for The Metropolitan Tower is on December 8, 2005 - Thursday.

It will be the groundbreaking of the residential tower, opening of the Sky Loft model unit(s) and the celebration of Philtown's 10th Anniversary.

That's good. Finally they will start it.

good news there!
im guessing this will be the view of metropolitan residents. at least pag di man kita ang backdrop, blessing na rin yung me view sila ng One Rockwell.
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/one-rockwell_150_1.jpg

12.08.05 - From Philtown's website.

Swimming Pool
http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b358/thomasian/MAC-adult-swimming-pool_12-08-05.jpg

Lap Pool
http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b358/thomasian/MAC-lap-pool_12-08-05.jpg

Launching of MetroClub, Metropolitan Model Units, and Philtown's 10th Anniversary:
http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b358/thomasian/IMG_2174x.jpg

MAC and Metropolitan Showroom:
http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b358/thomasian/MAC-showroom-and-SkyLofts-model-unit.jpg

Model Units:

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b358/thomasian/model1.jpg
http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b358/thomasian/model2.jpg

the "model units" are :eek2:

Wow may kasamang "model" yung Skyloft units ng Metropolitan. Pakage Deal Hehehe...

are the models included:D

^ :lol: gown models? :jk: :D

Wala bang package deal na guys ang kasamang models? :lol:

12.08.05 - From Philtown's website.


http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b358/thomasian/model2.jpg

Kamukha nya yata si KEANNA REEVES. :lol:

MAC Showroom and Metropolitan's scale-model

Without any daytime renderings, we couldn't figure out the color of Metropolitan before. Now it's settled that it will be white. :)

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b358/thomasian/MAC-showroom-and-SkyLofts-model-uni.jpg

Kamukha nya yata si KEANNA REEVES. :lol:

Hmmm, duda rin ako sa kanya ha. :lol:

their ads on the major dailies removed the "stone throw away from Rockwell" phrase. they're putting more emphasis now on the skylofts.

Probably the Rockwell Group threatened to take legal actions on Philtown for using "Rockwell" without their permission kanya they were forced to change their Marketing emphasiss/strategy. That's OK since they should rather emphasize the lower pricing to be their selling point. When you compare what Rockwell Grp is asking for their units, laki rin ng difference price-wise which is why I think the Metropolitan is really a much better buy kung sa Rockwell area condo developments ang pag-uusapan.

pero good selling point pa rin yung being a block away from rockwell. nga lang...negative naman ang dating nun sa Rockwell developer.

kahit papano kikita ren naman ang rockwell, dahel ang mga tiga metropol will become rockwell mall patrons.

sobra yata yung make-up nila...katakot...but oh wells...they are elegant ladies none the less!

from the scale model alone, this one looks to be very massive when built.

well I hope tall too :D

oh sorry.. i thought this one is in RW..

^^ it's officially outside rockwell :D

yep. but in skyline terms it's in the "rockwell" skyline. though officially i believe if we ever mention this with rockwell we'll be sued:D

Metropolitan is technically outside Rockwell since it's built only adjacent to the boundary of the Lopez-owned land, but since Rockwell doesn't have any visible boundaries or markers in that area, it will blend seamlessly with Rockwell (unless Rockwell builds some sort of fences+gate in that area which I doubt they will do) whether the Lopezes like it or not.

^^ It will play and display together with the Rockwell Skyline. :D

it's not really a line....it's a cluster

^^ Oh, yeah :yes: , thanks.

My source in Philtown informed me that the price/SQM for the Metropolitan has just risen by another Php2,500/SQM starting Jan17th. Pricing for the parking slots are also increasing as well. I'm not sure if this price increases have anything to do with the anticipation of the VAT increase from 10% to 12% this February since prices are VAT inclusive. For those interested in seeing pics and other info, you can check out their website at: www.philtown.net.

New from this thread, just want to check if anybody can post some update on this project. Thanks.

Just got word from my Philtown contact that the Metropolitan skyloft model units are now available for viewing at the Metro Athletic Club.

Yup. It's been available for viewing since December.

They still haven't started with the ground breaking. They said that the ground breaking ceremony was held last December but nothing has happened yet. I'm starting to get nervous.

Should I give them an ultimatum?

not really. philtown was able to top off Fairways and sales was 'good'. So there's no need to worry or doubt about the delivery of the units. by the way, if you retract your intent of buying the unit, can you have your payments reimbursed.

Metropolitan Boy,
I think it's premature and impulsive what you plan to do. Sayang kasi, should you seek a refund, it's very probable you will only get back a portion of what you already paid out. Philtown is one of the heavy hitters in Philippine realestate development so no need to worry about Philtown's ability to deliver. They (Philtown/Concepcion) are not only very established, very reputable and well funded but also very committed to delivering their projects as evidenced by their first project One McKinley, which still got done where so many other developments failed/folded during asian crisis, and now with the topping off of Fairways Tower as Francis already mentioned. Delays are part of any construction projects. Masikip yung lot nila diyan sa may Rockwell so baka medyo delayed due to the renovation of Metro Athletic Club which is located beside the Metropolitan site. They maybe waiting to have the area better cleared so that construction can proceed without further delay. Of course I'm only speculating. Have you checked with your contact to find out what's up?

Thanks Francis20 and 3cr. I went to their showroom last night at the MAC and they told me that groundbreaking is confirmed for the end of this month. They were also testing the tennis courts which they recently finished. They didn't give a reason to the delay.

Pardon my anxiety, it's just that I'm one of the first buyers of this project and it has been 2 years since I made my payment.

I trust you guys in telling me to hold on. You guys are the authority anyway in matters such as this. Thanks so much for putting my mind at peace.

MetropolitanBoy,
You're welcome bro but by no means am I an authority. Just like you, I'm just an investor in Philtown's condo developments namely Fairways Tower (for my residence) and Metropolitan (for rental investment). I invested early last year lang while you invested really early in the pre-selling so I can undertand your anxiety. Besides you have invested your hard earned money in this unit purchase so it's only right to be concerned. But don't worry everything will turn out fine. I'm really glad we've given you some peace of mind. That's also why I feel lucky to have found this forum because it's my way of getting updates on these projects. :)

Maraming salamat sa inyong lahat to make this thread very informative, I also bought a unit in this project last year and like Metropolitanboy I'm also getting worried because they keep moving the groundbreaking. Kaya thank you uli for the update kahit paano nawala ang worry ko.

Congrats on your unit purchase MANS! We just have to be a little more patient otherwise the anxiety will only drive us mad, worse baka ikamatay pa natin to sa taas ng presyon! Sayang naman kung hindi natin ito abutan magawa at ma-enjoy di ba. Relax lang tayo magagawan rin yan in the time-frame promised. :)

Thanks again 3cr. So I'm discovering my future neighbors here in this thread! We should all meet up in the next party of Philtown. It should be fun!

Yes that would indeed be great but have to take a raincheck unfortunately. Just that I'm still currently living in California but hopefully not for long. I'm really looking forward to Fairways Tower getting done this year so that I can finally go back home to the Philippines after so many years living abroad. Excited na nga ako maka-uwi diyan when my unit is ready. Pagbalik ko na lang diyan ako babawi. Looking forward to seeing you all soon. :)

I was in your shoes a few years back. Gave up my green card to move back here for good. I have no regrets.

Good to hear no regrets ka going back to Pinas. I hope so do I pag-uwi ko diyan in 2007. Excited na nga ako eh! :)

Yes your right 3cr it's great but I'm also live in California pero balak namin ni misis magbakasyon this year, either June or December pero balak pa lang not yet sure.

wow sana makauwi na rin ako sa Phils..(iba talaga sa atin...hard to describe but u know it and you feel it...)...i only got a unit in Ortigas as investment and for convinience but my dream will be to fanilly go home

funny enough alot of filipino's crave to go abroad to work...on the other side we(well some) of us filipino's working living abroad crave's to go back home...its nice that for some of you guys that dream is happening soon and has already begun on some..
.BGC will be my ideal place to live in the very near future...i hope there will still be project there by that time since im thinking they will start building office towers soon instead of residentials..

Latest News from Philtown:

Groundbreaking ceremonies of The Metropolitan Tower will be on April 6, 2006 (Thursday) and excavation follows on April 8 (Saturday). Excavation will take 3 months. Delivery is still set for December 2008.

Metropolitan Athletic Club or MAC will start demolition and renovation on the 2nd week of May.

Unit buyers can start using the swimming pools and other areas for free.

Philtown Sales Team will be all over the US starting this week until the end of April. Please refer to www.philtown.net , then go to EVENTS for further details.

Metropolitan Tower - Skylofts Model Unit

Living Room:

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/Skylofts%20Living-room/Clip_9.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/Skylofts%20Living-room/Clip_8.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/Skylofts%20Living-room/Clip_7.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/Skylofts%20Living-room/Clip_6.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/Skylofts%20Living-room/Clip_5.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/Skylofts%20Living-room/Clip_4.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/Skylofts%20Living-room/Clip_3.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/Skylofts%20Living-room/Clip_2.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/Skylofts%20Living-room/Clip_13.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/Skylofts%20Living-room/Clip_12.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/Skylofts%20Living-room/Clip_11.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/Skylofts%20Living-room/Clip_10.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/Skylofts%20Living-room/Clip.jpg

^^ ganda ng model unit, specially the high ceilings :)

i am very impressed with the model unit!

WOW !!! I will definitely look at these pics again once I start decorating/furnishing my condo. Ganda talaga.
Too bad, SOHO doesn't have the same high ceiling typical of a loft style which Metropolitan has.

Yeah, it surely gives Rockwell's Joya buyers a run for their money. :okay:

Metropolitan Tower - Skylofts Model Unit
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/Skylofts%20Living-room/Clip_9.jpg http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/Skylofts%20Living-room/Clip_8.jpg http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/Skylofts%20Living-room/Clip_7.jpg http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/Skylofts%20Living-room/Clip_6.jpg http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/Skylofts%20Living-room/Clip_5.jpg http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/Skylofts%20Living-room/Clip_4.jpg http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/Skylofts%20Living-room/Clip_3.jpg http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/Skylofts%20Living-room/Clip_2.jpg http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/Skylofts%20Living-room/Clip_13.jpg http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/Skylofts%20Living-room/Clip_12.jpg http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/Skylofts%20Living-room/Clip_11.jpg http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/Skylofts%20Living-room/Clip_10.jpg http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/Skylofts%20Living-room/Clip.jpg http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/Skylofts%20Living-room/skylofts_bedroom-upper15.jpg http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/Skylofts%20Living-room/skylofts_bedroom-upper14.jpg http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/Skylofts%20Living-room/skylofts_bedroom-upper13.jpg http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/Skylofts%20Living-room/skylofts_bedroom-upper12.jpg http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/Skylofts%20Living-room/skylofts_bedroom-upper11.jpg http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/Skylofts%20Living-room/skylofts_bedroom-upper10.jpg http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/Skylofts%20Living-room/skylofts_bedroom-upper09.jpg http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/Skylofts%20Living-room/skylofts_bedroom-upper08.jpg http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/Skylofts%20Living-room/skylofts_bedroom-lower11.jpg http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/Skylofts%20Living-room/skylofts_bedroom-lower10.jpg ^^ Wow after One McKinley and Fairways Tower, I am once again blown away by Philtown's third condo project The Metropolitan. I have to hand it to Philtown at ginastusan talaga nila itong skyloft model unit nila. Though the actual skyloft units will be delivered bare, the pics really show what deep pockets and good taste can accomplish stylistically and aesthetically. It came out really nice and Zen-like and I hope their regular condo units, which will be delivered finished, will prove to be just as impressive when completed. As an investor I can't help but feel happy and reassured with what I've seen so far since it does look like Philtown's Metropolitan project will give Rockwell's One Rockwell and Joya developments a run for its money just as Aaron/Thomasian said and will surely be a welcome future addition to the Rockwell/Makati skyline. :rock: :okay:

I used to like these Loft-style Zen designs a lot before but now it's getting too stark and tired for my taste. Plus it's not Feng Shui friendly because there are a lot overhanging beams there, particularly the overhang on top of bed and the staircase. It slices the 'chi'. But I'm sure it will depend on the tastes of the occupants. They can surely warm up the space with some color suited to their tastes and remedy the "poison arrows".

What does it look like upstairs?

Nice interior! I especially like the lighting.

The recessed lighting is nice but may entail more in terms of maintenance and cost. Not very cost-efficient. I was thinking it will be nice to install partial solar energy lights to save on electricity and to utilize all that bright light filtering in through the large windows during daytime. There's way too much lighting fixtures and bulbs to maintain on such high wall. You will always have to call in the "super" for replacement of bulbs/tubes on the high ceilings.

@GreyX (Ryan), when I visited Vancouver BC, "Green Buildings" is the wave there. I hope that they start using Green Building or sustainable design and environmentally safe concepts in the Philippines both in construction and interior design.

Ang lofts maganda ang dateng kasi maaliwalas (airy) tingnan and brings in alot of light as well but in reality medyo hindi very practical for tropical (hot) countries/climates. First of all such a unit will require stairs which is not very children and/or elder friendly. Furthermore it will also have to be of a larger cut otherwise masyadong masikip yung Great Room (open living/ dining/kitchen area). Also as Lili pointed out masmahirap ang maintenance (lights, dusting etc.) at masmalakas din sa electric consumption to cool down all that open space which tends to get hotter with all that glass lalo na when it faces west. But I guess if one is able to afford such a unit, they will also have the dinero to easily have it maintained periodically as well as pay for the electric bill w/o any problem regardless of price. :)

very impressive model unit!!! :applause: congrats to all you guys who invested on this project...lalo na si 3CR na suki ng philtown :bow: , hehehe! hindi kaya yung mga glass dyan eh like yung mga glass sa 4-season rooms?...the ones with the so-called "low E" technology (correct me if i'm wrong with the term)...it allows light to come in but prevents heat to pass through....wouldn't that be nice? :happy:

very impressive design.

Metropolitan Tower - Skylofts Model Unit

Upper level bedroom / Master's bedroom:

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/Skylofts%20Living-room/skylofts_bedroom-upper15.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/Skylofts%20Living-room/skylofts_bedroom-upper14.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/Skylofts%20Living-room/skylofts_bedroom-upper13.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/Skylofts%20Living-room/skylofts_bedroom-upper12.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/Skylofts%20Living-room/skylofts_bedroom-upper11.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/Skylofts%20Living-room/skylofts_bedroom-upper10.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/Skylofts%20Living-room/skylofts_bedroom-upper09.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/Skylofts%20Living-room/skylofts_bedroom-upper08.jpg

Lower level bedroom:

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/Skylofts%20Living-room/skylofts_bedroom-lower11.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/Skylofts%20Living-room/skylofts_bedroom-lower10.jpg

Pool Area:

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/Metropolitan%20Tower/pool15.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/Metropolitan%20Tower/pool13.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ofngol/Metropolitan%20Tower/pool14.jpg

wow! me lap pool. all condominiums should have that.

thanks for sharing thomasian....love the interor.....who's the designer?

Sorry but I really don't know. Maybe Metropolitanites know who the designer is.

Hey, the upper level bedroom cum study/den of the loft is not bad! Modern zen. I like it. The lap pool is really enticing , too.

thanks for sharing thomasina....love the interor.....who's the designer? Sorry but I really don't know. Maybe Metropolitanites know who the designer is. ^^ Thanks Aaron for posting those wonderful pics of The Metropolitan's model unit. The interior definitely came out really nice indeed. Ganda nga siya. I'm very impressed :okay:

Btw Edmund The Metropolitan's interior design team are as follows: Tina Periquet, Martha Orosa Uy, Ed Calma, and Davis Langdon & Seah Phil. Not sure who of the 4 actually did this particular model unit but from the style/design standpoint looks like it would either be Tina Periquet or Martha Orosa Uy though I'm leaning on the former. Hope this helps. :)

I like that all white look with light stained trimmings . Bare essential zen concepts and lots of natural light. :cool:

The model unit is a collaboration of Tina Periquet and Ed Calma. The pool was designed by Recio+Casas

Ang ganda nga... Sarap sigurong tumira sa ganyang unit. Ganda siguro ng view niyan.

omg, i love the model units! pero ayoko naman sa rockwell area hehe

Bakit? Dahil dating Electric plant area yung Rockwell?

^^ dalawa sa mga ex ko ay nakatira dun :lol: ayoko maging kapitbahay sila :D

^^ Take note, "mga", meaning, "marami". :D :jk:

Ah ganon pala. Madugo nga yun. Baka magsuntukan o magsabunutan. :jk:

magsuntukan is more like it :D

@aaron, hahaha di naman masyadong marami :D

^^ Baka gusto mo akong idagdag. :D :jk:

Ayan na naman kayong dalawa... Parang ang tagal na ng saga niyo. ;)

^^ The never-ending love story of Aaron and Fhoy... but then, how could something that haven't even started yet end? :cry:

I thought I read "sago".. hahahhaha.. kala ko tuloy kung ano yung may sago.. :bash:

Ayan na naman kayong dalawa... Parang ang tagal na ng saga niyo. ;)

^^ :lol: i exactly know what you mean...

yeah i know ed calma, and it is very like his design. i am really impressed, just like a model in serendra (largest unit)

Just wondering if the scheduled groundbreaking actually took place. I'm one of those who bought in early 2004 and I'm really looking forward for the project to finally start. Its been an awfully long wait.

They said that there was a ceremony and all but I passed by the other day and I haven't seen any digging going on. I don't know what to do next. Do I wait some more?

Found out my contact in Philtown has moved on to greener pastures. Wala tuloy akong balita what's up with The Metropolitan. Maybe the best thing to do is contact your Philtown/Realestate Rep directly for some answers as to why construction is lagging. Please don't forget to post their answer so we also know what's going on. Thanks!

She said that digging is sure to start this week. She also promised that Philtown will deliver on December 2008. Here is a text message from the project manager regarding the actual excavation: "Actual excavation started last April 21, we are still very much on schedule. Please inform everyone. IPM (what does that mean?) is now stockpiling soil on site. Thanks"

Thanks for posting this update MetropolitanBoy. Good to know they've finally started with construction. Not familiar with the acronym IPM so if I were to guess it might be the initials of the company stockpiling the soil on site per the Project Manager's message. :)

No sweat. Any other updates I can get I will post here immediately. :)

Thank you also for the update MetropolitanBoy. I just wished Philtown could be as efficient as you. Its hard for me to imagine that a groundbreaking of The Metropolitan actually took place and I can't seem to find anything that mentions the event. Anyway, thanks again MetropolitanBoy.

Thanks guys. They actually updated their website. They also had some press releases that came out in some broadsheets here in Manila.

http://www.philtown.net/updatemetropolitan.php