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I S S U E 0 2 | 2 0 14 STYLE ESSENTIALS O N 8 T H AV E N U E , B O N I F A C I O G L O B A L C I T Y Where life radiates. Wake up to days where ample air and sun’s rays are fixtures in your own urban sanctuary. Enjoy the view of the city’s captivating scenery, and experience pleasurable mornings that are nothing short of inspiring. Because at The Montane, life is definitely at its most radiant. (02) 848-5200 • avidaland.com HLURB TLTS No. ENCRFO 14-09-030 ARTIST’S PERSPECTIVE IN THIS ISSUE: 2 EDITOR’S NOTE 3 UP & RISING A look at Avida’s latest developments 7 DO & DECOR Fun, practical pieces for the fashionable in you 8 MARTIN’S CLEVER AND COMFY CONDO Learn how you can make a small space work for you 10 OSIAS’ QUIET COUNTRYSIDE RETREAT A crash course into countrychic style 12 GLOBAL PINOY A tour of the Abacan family’s dream home 20 INVESTMENTS FOR THE SMART AND STYLISH 14 SERVED WITH STYLE Thanks to Avida Land, it’s easy to live the better life 16 HOMEMAKER HINTS 26 EXPLORE ALABANG, MAGINHAWA STREET, BGC, AND TAGAYTAY New table settings for special occasions Interior design secrets to apply to your home now 18 15 WAYS TO MAKE YOUR HOME MORE STYLISH Small touches for beauty and function 30 DIVINE DESSERTS Two incredibly easy desserts that require no baking 31 THE NEWS FEED The hottest music, books, and apps 32 NEWS What’s going on in the Avida community EDITOR'S NOTE A Gift from Avida Merry Christmas dear readers! With only a few weeks left before our favorite holiday of the year, let us present to you an early gift that would truly make the season happier. Avida Living's second issue of the year is all about style, something that we all can relate to. Everyone has style, and we felt that we could all use a bit more sophistication in our lives. When we created the issue, our primary mission was to cultivate your own sense of style—whether in the way you dress (see our fabulous cover story), the way you reside in your homes (take a sneak peek at some of the glamorous Avida homes around the metro), or simply in the way we live our lives. Style is our way of telling the universe who we really are without uttering a word. Style translates to timeless classic pieces that are of great value in the homes we've built and the communities we've nurtured. ABOUT THE COVER STYLE ESSENTIALS persons, we can truly live a life we can be proud of. Meaningfully capturing the essence of what style connotes to Avida, the cover features people you find in your neighborhood — single professionals, siblings, a couple, good friends, a young family — which gives the impression of a relaxed sense of sophistication in a setting that is rendered in natural elements and pretty pastels. It’s an encapsulation of what Avida stands for: a neighborhood that attracts an eclectic and stylish crowd that wants to make the most out of life. 02 By realizing the importance of style to make ourselves better Here's to the best holiday this year! Have a great read! THE EDITORIAL TEAM P.S. We'd love to hear from you! Share us your thoughts on this issue by sending as an email at [email protected] EDITOR IN CHIEF Tess Tatco EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR Mayee Albotra ASSOCIATE EDITOR Patricia Abacan GRAPHIC ARTISTS Glenn Camson, Wilson Alba EDITORIAL CONSULTANTS Bing Gumboc Anne Baylon Nancy Delegencia CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Corinne Ramos, Michelle Velete, Steven Gonzales, Eric Stevens, Gemini Quinto, Upper Viceo AVIDA LIVING 909 40th Street North Bonifacio Triangle, Bonifacio Global City 1634 Taguig City TRUNK LINE: 632 988 2111 | HOTLINE : (02) 848-5200 www.avidaland.com avidalandph avidaofficial UP&RISING Artist's Perspective A WONDERFUL LIFE IN THE SOUTH Avida Southfield Settings exemplifies all the things that make living in the south a dream Artist's Perspective Artist's Perspective Artist's Perspective M oving to your life’s next chapter gives you a new outlook on things that matter most— especially when it comes to choosing a home for you and your loved ones. Avida Southfield Settings is the latest sequel in the successful Avida Settings series in NUVALI, offering individuals and budding families a healthy environment, a secure and safe community, and a new outlook on suburban living. Located at the south of NUVALI on a gentle rolling terrain with lush greenery, breathtaking views, and a fresh look of modern-contemporary designed houses with unit sizes ranging from 53-88 sq.m, Southfield Settings has created a new community that is simple and elegant in its intentions. With schools, establishments and commercial areas just within the vicinity, you’ll be at the heart of it all. Southfield Settings also lets you in and out of the main city via several exits in SLEX. Southfield Settings’ three new moderncontemporary designed house models are named Celine, Macy, and Trista — perfect examples of strategically planned and improved homes that provide better natural ventilation and sunlight, as well as practical, flexible, and efficient use of space. In addition to the enhanced home experience, Avida Southfield Settings possesses a one-hectare amenity area designed to encourage a healthy environment and friendly interactions among residents. There’s the multipurpose hall for special gatherings and events; swimming pools for both adults and kids; a basketball court for sports aficionados; a park and playground for active children; and landscaped parks. There are plenty of open spaces to take in all the surrounding beauty and the creative touches Avida has placed to make it unique and comfortable for Southfield Settings residents. 03 UP & RISING A SCENE-STEALING STRONGHOLD The Montane epitomizes the top-ofthe-line life everyone wants A s the trend for condo living continues to rage on, Avida’s plethora of premium developments means that there is a home to suit any style. The Montane on 8th Avenue at the heart of Bonifacio Global City’s active north side is one of them. A high-rise residential project with 39 levels, The Montane overlooks the modern spaces in the urban jungle with a design inspired by simplicity and sophistication. The project is strategically located on 8th Avenue, which stretches to Kalayaan Avenue. It is a short walk away from one of BGC’s main thoroughfares, 32nd Street—a road that extends to C5 on the East and Makati to the Northwest. Residents of The Montane can look forward to brighter days in BGC, from the moment they awake to free-flowing air and sunlight. The development is ideal for individuals and families who prefer active establishments and green spaces integrated into the urban landscape. Landscaped gardens, a lap pool, and viewing decks for lounging make living in The Montane an incredible experience. Whatever you choose to do within and outside of your unit, it’s all part of a lifestyle that lights you up. Light it up indeed with BGC’s urban playground where one can stroll on wide sidewalks, run amid thriving greenery, and play in safe and wellplanned active spaces such as Turf BGC, Flying Trapeze Philippines, and Kidzania. With over 30% of BGC dedicated to permanent open spaces, such a balance will remain for years to come. Because the area is still developing, (with a sports complex, an active park, and rows of greenery set to rise in the future), living here is as reinvigorating and energizing as it can get. Artist's Perspective 04 AVIDA LIVING UP & RIS ING A CUT ABOVE THE REST Capital House marks Avida Land’s second foray into the premium office development market S Spurred by the success of its first office development One Park Drive for small and medium-sized enterprises (SME), Ayala Land’s mid-price property developer Avida Land launched its second boutique office building, Capital House. Located at the prestigious 34th Street corner 9th Avenue in Bonifacio Global City, the second office building offering with its planned 26 floors and 222 units seems to be ready-made for growing businesses. NEW HOME FOR SMES “Capital House is also designed for the small and medium-sized businesses and owners of stable and expanding businesses,” says Herbert Herrero, Avida Land property development manager for South Metro Manila and South Luzon. Herrero affirms that they are eyeing businesses such as architectural firms, interior design firms, HR consultants, marketing firms, real estate brokers, wedding and event consultants, law firms, and accountancy firms to make Capital House their new home. Given that the units have flexible designs and sizes ranging from housing seven employees to as much as 25 employees, Capital House is shaped to be the best choice for businesses looking to take that next step and make bigger things happen in an environment that is as inspiring as the success they envision. FLEXIBILITY AND CONVENIENCE “Unit owners have the right size of space. They can occupy a unit that is perfect for the business,” Herrero reiterates. Other conveniences and perks that await Capital House unit owners include ground floor spaces for dining and shopping, an open deck, a roof deck, and ample parking (344 slots for owners and 110 slots for visitors). Unlike other office buildings where the air-conditioning is centralized, Capital House’s units have individual systems. Artist's Perspective This type of setup is very beneficial to the entrepreneurs, as Herrero cites, “Having an individual system gives them full control on their aircon use. They can monitor their expense on this and not add up to their association dues.” Aside from the flexibility of space and the amenities, Avida can also provide unit owners with leasing services to help them find tenants for their spaces. Capital House offers leasable multipurpose rooms and conference rooms to allow business owners to expand their office should the need arise. PARTNER IN GROWTH Avida Land has been marketing and presenting this new development to potential customers. So far, response has been favorable as Herrero states that more and more SME entrepreneurs are recognizing the importance of being in a prime location to expand their businesses. “The concept of Capital House and One Park Drive is very timely. SMEs need a prime location in order to be accessible to partners, investors, and clients, and they desire offices that are fitting to their stature and image as growing enterprises. However, very few developments today offer office spaces that fit the requirements and price ranges of SMEs. “We at Avida Land believe that our boutique office buildings fulfill what they, the SMEs, are looking for. In the process, we give them what they want, but more meaningfully, support and boost their growth and progress.” 05 UP & RISING Artist's Perspective LIVING IN SYNC Living in harmony at Avida Towers One Union Place E ver the consistent provider of homes designed to please the senses at the most happening locations, Avida Towers One Union Place is taking convergence to a whole new level at ARCA South, the metro’s newest emerging growth center. The 74-hectare central business and lifestyle district located in the former Food Terminal Inc. (FTI) complex in Taguig City is the site of Avida’s very first offering in the area. ARCA South is right along South Luzon Expressway (SLEX), near EDSA and C5, a 10-minute drive from NAIA, and is only 5 to 7km away from Makati and BGC, making it highly accessible to the metro’s business hubs. Understanding that mobility is essential, ARCA South will further improve accessibility by capitalizing on two major infrastructure projects: The Southeast Intermodal Transport System (ITS); and the Skyway and C5/C6 connector, which will include access ramps to ARCA South, as well as separate ramps going to the ITS. Avida Towers One Union Place is a 9,872 sq.m, modern-contemporary designed, three-tower residential condominium development in the southeast residential enclave of ARCA South. Aside from establishments and institutions within ARCA South, Avida Towers One Union Place is also near several schools, hospitals, churches, and commercial and business districts in Metro Manila. Here, residents are assured of a lifestyle that is comfortable and serene as units and common areas are thoughtfully designed for everyone’s relaxed living experience, with studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom units ranging from P2.5M to P7M. The green spaces and amenities are perfect venues for social convergence and playtime after a hard day’s work. If you’re looking to fulfill your dreams of settling down in a neighborhood that is shaped according to your requirements, then One Union Place could be the X to your personal map to happiness. Artist's Perspective Artist's Perspective Artist's Perspective 06 AVIDA LIVING DO&DECOR FRESH STYLE Thanks to these fun and practical pieces, it’s easier to channel the fashionable in you by s te ven gonz ale s 1 Whistlestop Humming Party, Quirks Novelties & Curiosities 2 Light It Up Cone-shaped Table Lamp, P795, Make Room 3 Key To Your Life Light Gray Keyholder, P250, Heima 4 Game Face googoo&gaga Invaders Pillow, P1,750, Heima 5 Writing On The Wall Newgate Chalkboard Clock, P2,800, Heima 6 Sounds Good iHome Bluetooth Single Speakers, Heima 7 Close Knit Abacca Kalas Hamper, P1,350, Make Room 8 Serve It Up Serving Set, P350, Make Room 9 Spin Me ‘Round 45 Coasters, PHOTOS COURTESY OF HEIMA, MAKE ROOM, AND QUIRKS NOVELTIES & CURIOSITIES P695, Quirks Novelties & Curiosities 07 P R OF I L E MARTIN’S CLEVER AND COMFY CONDO by s te ven gonz ale s • photos by jar concengco L iving in a small space hasn’t stopped Martin Galang and his wife Aina Ruth from creating a home that marries form and function. Minimal and modernist, the lightfilled home is washed in white with jolts of textural and tech elements that gives an incredibly spacious feeling. The zippiness of the Galang home is rooted in its practical design, coming to life with nifty storage solutions scattered around the nooks and crannies custom-built by interior designer Lilia Garcia (who happens to be Martin’s aunt). A conscious decision to provide additional surface mileage, smart and sneaky storage ideas are tucked into the home. Examples of which include ottomans that accommodate knickknacks and cabinets that vanish within the walls. Because of the limited space, Galang’s interiors were meant to make the room feel more expansive, choosing off-the-rack pieces that contribute to the minimalist theme: the mirrored wall makes the living area bigger while in the master bedroom, a floor-to-ceiling closet scaled beautifully by its box-like division also feels like a decorative installation. HIS STYLE Clean, classic, functionality, and durability. These were the design ideas I gave my interior designer to work on when we planned how the unit will be. I wanted something a bit minimalist, as it would be soothing to the eyes and a design that would last despite the everchanging design styles and fads coming out every year. We also invested on custommade furniture, cabinets, and sliding doors to maximize the space, which is a luxury in condo living. Aside from the furniture, we revamped the lighting to give better visibility and mood of the unit. DESIGN INSPIRATION We wanted to replicate the feel of a boutique hotel room where you have all the modern amenities and luxury all wrapped into compact space. FAVORITE PIECES It would be the abstract photography piece I got from Ayala Tower 1 when I was still with the Ayala group. It is rumored to be an unsigned work of JZA that used to be part of a collection in the Pure Foods HQ but was returned when San Miguel acquired Pure Foods back in 2001. It blends well with my unit’s design and now serves as the centerpiece and focal point of the living area. FAVORITE SPOT I find the kitchen is my most used space at home. This is where I get creative and treat it as therapy when I cook. Aside from the kitchen, we usually spend most of our time in the bedroom taking long naps in the weekends to rejuvenate from the busy workweek and to get ready for the next. CONDO CHALLENGES TO OVERCOME The interior designer and I worked with the limited space by using dual functioning furniture like the ottoman stools and the dining table base, which also serves as storage spaces. The sofa and cabinets were also custom-made to fit into the limited space. Most of the pieces here were actually constructed on site during the renovation. NEXT HOME PROJECT We are looking into another ALI-developed property (probably outside the metro, like NUVALI) given the need for a bigger space and the arrival of the newest addition to our family once my wife gives birth to our first-born. We still want the security and property management expertise provided by Ayala Property Management Corp. and at the same time a bigger space for our growing family. ADVICE TO NEWBIES They should plan well and manage the limited space of condo living with custommade pieces and compactly designed appliances. But condo living also has its rewards in terms of less maintenance and security. DO YOU WANT TO BE OUR NEXT AVIDA HOMEOWNER FEATURE? Email us at [email protected] for more details. 08 AVIDA LIVING RESIDENT: MARTIN RAYMUND GALANG AND AINA RUTH GALANG LOCATION: AVIDA TOWERS NEW MANILA SIZE: 30 SQUARE METERS YEARS LIVED IN: TWO YEARS AND TWO MONTHS Martin's favorite piece I wanted something a bit minimalist, as it would be soothing to the eyes and a design that would last despite the ever-changing design styles and fads coming out every year. Neutral hues give the impression of space Sliding doors save space 09 P R OF I L E OSIAS’ QUIET COUNTRYSIDE RETREAT by s te ven gonz ale s • photos by jar concengco B etter known as the other half of Philippine ballet’s most recognized dancer, Osias Barroso, 49, has been Lisa Macuja-Elizalde’s partner for 17 years. In that time, Barroso has pirouetted his way across foreign lands, performing in major stages and theaters to showcase a form of art that has been intrinsic to him since he was a young child. Now, the ballet master takes dancing prodigies under his wing at Ballet Manila in which he serves as co-artistic director. In his words, “you don’t just teach them dance, you teach them life,” a natural philosophy that runs through his three-bedroom, country-inspired home filled with natural elements: wood, water, metal, rattan, blooming plants, flowers, and even animals (he has three adorable dogs!). Circles also add an interesting detail to the Barroso residence. It’s a prevalent pattern around the house that signifies how nature is malleable, always looping its way around anything in its grasp. In a sense, his home reflects the same fluidity of his chasses. HIS STYLE I wanted my home to be as cozy and country-like as much as possible. My family and friends love the high ceiling in the living room. DESIGN INSPIRATION My inspiration is to be near nature. Since I’ve lived in the city most of my life I really wanted to invest in a home closer to nature. FAVORITE PIECES I love the painting by my foyer. It was a housewarming gift to me, and it symbolizes dance. FAVORITE SPOT The lanai near the pond. The soothing sound of the waterfalls relaxes me, plus I have a lot of foliage around my property. WHY AVIDA When I was looking for a home, I kept coming back here. First, I loved the rolling terrain. Second, I liked the design of the houses and it’s a peaceful community. I went everywhere, so much RESIDENT: OSIAS BARROSO LOCATION: AVIDA SETTINGS CAVITE SIZE: 208 SQUARE METERS (LOT AREA) YEARS LIVED IN: TWO YEARS 10 AVIDA LIVING that I could be a real estate agent, but I just found myself coming back to Avida Settings Cavite. NEXT HOME PROJECT I want to add a balcony by my lanai, and add furnishing on the second floor since I have not finished decorating the second floor. HOME SOURCES I usually get home furnishing from Blims, Furniture Republic, and Mandaue Foam. In a sense, his home reflects the same fluidity of his chasses. His favorite spot Natural lights illuminate his nature-inspired home 11 GL OB AL PI NO Y BUILDING DREAMS Noralyn Abacan chased her dreams and found herself and her family in a dream home that speaks volumes by ste ven gonz ales photos by j a r concengco 12 AVIDA LIVING N oralyn Abacan, 48, is as charming as her pretty and picturesque house in Avida Residences Dasmarinas. Nestled on a quiet side of the community’s rolling terrain, the house stands as a real-life icon of her dreams. “Although sinasabi ko na hindi siya ganun kaluwag, eto kasi ang dream house ko,” she says of the 165-sq.m home she built together with her husband Renato. A doting mother to a brood of three, a hardworking government employee, and a loving wife to a husband who works in Abu Dhabi, the petite yet strikingly likable Noralyn shrug off any foreboding second thoughts when we photographed her and two of her kids, Ren-Ren, 16, and Elaine, 14. The Abacan household speaks to a recognizable generation of families—one that goes through a certain degree of sacrifice. She says that her husband was the one who was more excited for the shoot and would have loved to have been part of it had the stars aligned. But even if he is away most of the time and only manages to go home for a week or two, Noralyn injects a sprightly disposition her home. Part of that dream meant having huge windows that allow sunshine to flood through, modern furnishings that bear her style sensibilities, an airy garden area where she spends her time, and a bar nook that she personally requested from her architect brother-in-law who helped design the house. “Sabi ko huwag kalimutan ang bar nook overlooking either the living or dining room.” Having lived in their Avida home for over a year—they moved in September 2013— she speaks as if she has settled in quite nicely. And she has. “The facilities are great, the pool and the clubhouse too,” she says. “Nagustuhan ko dito ‘yung mga landscapes, ‘yung mga halaman. Nakaka-relax.” She shares that in their old house, she couldn’t walk from the gate to their house, but she has no qualms doing so here in Avida Residences Dasmarinas. However, she affirms that the best thing about the community she lives in is that she feels safe, a nugget of wisdom she intends to share with people who are thinking of purchasing their own home. “Sa akin, ang pagbili ng bahay, tinitingnan ko ‘yung lugar and if there is security in the area and ‘yung [feeling of] kuntento ka ba. Marami kaming tiningnang subdivision pero kaya ko ito nagustuhan kasi secure at malinis since ‘yun ang hinahanap ko.” If Noralyn’s aspiration of building her dreams from the ground up is anything to go by, turning visions into reality in these times has become attainable more than ever. With all the options and meticulous planning available at hand to help map out those very dreams, Noralyn serves as an inspiration to a bigger community aiming for similar dreams. The only thing she could have hoped for? The next time her husband comes home—oh and also that new front terrace. The Abacan household speaks to a recognizable generation of families—one that comes with a certain degree of sacrifice. 13 HOME SERVED STYLE with New table settings for holiday celebrations and Sunday family lunches BY DEDET PANABI Don’t call that party planner just yet. You can create highimpact table settings with things you already own or buy at the department store. With the help of interior designer and magazine stylist Nini Falcon, it’s cheaper, faster, and fool proof. Modern Filipiniana ideal for: family reunions, formal dinner parties, traditional celebrations like Noche Buena HT he wooden or clay bowls are already Filipiniana, so avoid additional clichés like banana leaves and fruit basket centerpieces. “Present traditional materials in a modern way.” HF or your centerpiece, wrap a banana leaf around a Mason jar and secure with twine. Fill with bright flowers (casual) or white roses (elegant). HRoll table napkins and tie with kugon. Stack three small bowls for dipping sauces by each plate. Alternate black and white bowls for contrast. HServe pandan-infused water or iced tea in a glass pitcher. HSince Filipino food— lechon, adobo, dinuguan— tends to be very brown, place serving plates on folded colored linens. It protects the table and gives beautiful contrast. HServe halo-halo condiments in Mason jars. HUsed your hands? Present guests with a wooden tray filled with rolled hot towels, or personal bowls with warm water and lemon slices. change it to a … formal party: Stick placecards on small abaniko fans. Place tealights in a capiz candleholder next to each plate or cluster around the centerpiece. Condo dwellers don’t have a lot of storage space, so Falcon selected five essentials you can mix together to create very different themes. 14 AVIDA LIVING oBowls, coasters, placemats, and other accessories in natural materials like wood, clay, bamboo, and grass. Avoid the Tacky Tourist Souvenir by getting modern shapes and elements (like placemats made from woven bamboo fiber rather than literal bamboo sticks). oMetal napkin rings and charger plates. Makes your everyday white plates look dinner-party ready. oMason jars. Use them as glasses, small vases, containers for condiments, or (once filled with sand) tea candleholders. oColored linens. PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE BRANDS Tabletop Wonders oWhite plates. Classy, versatile, and easy to replace if you break one piece. Condo “Garden” Party ideal for: children’s birthdays and playdates H“ Succulent plants are very popular now,” says Falcon. “Since you probably own them already, bring them into the dining room to enhance a party theme, then return to your patio when you’re done.” HCenterpiece: Fill paper cups with “cookie dirt” (crumbled brownies or chocolate cake) and gummy worms. Add a flower cake pop. Place on cupcake stand. HDecorate potted succulent plants with butterflies, bees, and ladybugs printed on thick glossy paper and attached to balloon sticks. HGiveaways: A “planting kit” with a seed packet, potting soil, and a shovel. Place in a small clay pot. (Kids can decorate the pots as a crafting activity during the party.) change it to a … Halloween party: Replace flower cake pops with chocolate bats and cookie tombstones. Cluster spiders and little pumpkins around your succulent plants. Color Quickie ideal for: Surprise guests, Sunday family lunches, girlfriend get-togethers H“Color is the easiest way to make something look special.” Current trends lean towards “muted jewel tones” or what you would get if you Instagrammed a tropical rainforest: plum and orchid, sage, mustard, emerald, deep orange. H“ I recommend having a personal palette. Pick one color (e.g. yellow) and build into two or three color schemes (yellow + navy blue = classy; yellow + pink = girly). Throw in one or two bright patterns that work with those colors,” says Falcon. Build on it with similar linens, vases, pitchers or candleholders. If you don’t like these shades, then type “color schemes” in Google or Pinterest. Best thing is any of those colors will automatically match. HPick two colors and inject into your table setting: linens, napkin rings or colored ribbons, or flowers. HBring touches of the color to the rest of the room. Secure curtains with a matching sash. Change your chair or pillow cushions, or bring out a matching vase or candleholder. HBring in the succulent plants. Repeat the nature theme on your table. If you didn’t have time to buy flowers, then small potted plants can already act as centerpieces. You can also place small branches or twigs (painted white or left bare) in a Mason jar filled with pebbles. These will instantly match your white plates and clay pots. “Just by repeating the 'organic’ elements you already have a very cohesive look. Sticking to one color scheme seals the deal,” says Falcon. Taken from the model units of Southgrove Estates. Nice to have: oSmall tin pails. Can hold ice, beer or wine, or flowers oCupcake stands. Use for sandwiches and cookies, turn into centerpiece with flowers in small glasses, hold additional condiments (like DIY ramen or halo-halo), or bring to the living room table for pre-dinner pika pika. oColored serving plates and water pitchers Brighten up the dining table and pick a shade that works well with your personality. oHigh quality silverware. Plates are breakable, trendy, but silverware is like the diamond studs that you use again and again. 15 HOME { { HOMEMAKER HINTS INTERIOR DESIGN SECRETS TO APPLY TO YOUR HOME—AND LIFE—NOW BY GEMINI QUINTOS With today’s saturation of interior design trends, it’s easy to lose one’s individuality and get lost in what’s “in style.” How do you stay current and still keep your personal cool? Interior designer Cara Marcelo shares what works for her—and how you can find what works for you. {BUY SMART} First thing’s first when purchasing for your home: Don’t waste money on items that will sit around and do nothing for your space. “There are so many options out there now, it can be very difficult to choose the right pieces for your home,” says Marcelo. Her surefire tip for avoiding hasty purchases? “Stay away from sale items,” she warns. “This is the most common mistake of buyers.” Instead, Marcelo says to choose “what really calls out to you” despite the price tag—that way you won’t be compromising on your personal taste, and you’ll actually save money in the long run. She also reminds us to keep proportions in mind. “Know the measurements of the space you want to fill so that you don’t buy something too big or too small.” {YOUR FURNITURE SHOULD WORK FOR YOU} Not the other way around! Marcelo reminds us that furniture is, after all, an item of function, not decoration, so you shouldn’t sacrifice utility for what you think is a trend or aesthetic you’re going for. “Furniture is meant to be used, not just to fill a space or make the house look attractive,” she says. She emphasizes that because furniture is probably the most important thing you’ll buy for your home. You should take your utmost time and consideration before deciding on a purchase. “Buy furniture that is well crafted and comfortable,” Marcelo advises. “Test it out. Sit on it, lay on it, touch it, move it around. If it is possible for the store to demo the items in your home, go for it.” 16 AVIDA LIVING “You can achieve comfort by choosing what works for you and your life” {CUSTOMIZE FOR YOUR LIFE} When it comes to home interiors, we all know that comfort is key, but many still struggle to achieve maximum comfort in their home. Marcelo advises us to take into consideration all of the aspects of our lives that are unique to our situation. “You can achieve comfort by choosing what works for you and your life,” she says. For example, “Don’t buy a white couch and a shaggy carpet if you have messy kids with asthma. Don’t get a low Italian couch if you like lounging around in front of the TV.” In other words, never give in to adjusting your lifestyle to accommodate your surroundings. One of the most important aspects of Marcelo’s life and household is her children, so that’s something that she always works around when furnishing her home—not forgetting her kids’ little guests. “I am a mother of three, so my guests are often children,” she explains. “I just make my home very child-friendly and I don’t stress about the movement of my guests when they are in my home. I just let them put their feet up and relax... or let the little ones use our pillow and couch as a home base. I make it fun for them.” {EDIT & REFRESH} Two of the most important actions on your computer’s word processor and browser are wholly applicable and advisable when furnishing and decorating your home. “Edit, edit, edit!” says Marcelo. It’s the best way to keep the inside of your home from becoming chaotic. “Space is often filled up with junk that you don’t need. Don’t be too attached to things. Let go and have fun with your interiors.” Also, refresh—that is, update, recreate, revive. “Add accessories, change pictures, move things around, add a statement piece, change your curtains, put indoor plants,” suggests Marcelo, adding that staying inspired is important, and not hard to do. “Inspiration is everywhere. Get them from magazines, a painting, a picture, a piece of clothing. Draw ideas from things and places that you love.” But keep in mind that when seeking inspiration, beware the trend trap. “I put more value in bringing life and experiences into the home than by constantly adapting to what is currently in,” says Marcelo. “It is not difficult to do— change the pillow cases to ones that you fell in love with on a recent trip, or hang up a painting you did over the summer, or paint your walls—these small details make your home your own and not just a cut-up picture in a magazine.” 17 15 WAYS TO MAKE YOUR HOME MORE STYLISH Small touches can make a home both functional and beautiful BY DEDET PANABI A stylish home is like your favorite pair of jeans—soft and faded in all the right places, fitted perfectly to your shape, and worn with fabulous shoes and a statement accessory. It is comfortable and realistic. You can live in it, and it holds up to the wear and tear of your everyday life. Most of all, it has that special something that shows your personality and makes you feel really happy whenever you look at it. ONE STATEMENT PIECE Instead of spending a lot on several trinkets that you’ll eventually toss at your next garage sale, save for that one beautiful sculpture or painting that really speaks to you. CURATE YOUR COLLECTION We all have our trinkets and souvenirs. But the best ones have a history and personal significance. Display them in a beautiful way: a shelf with special lighting, a shadowbox, or custom-made shelves. TURN PHOTOS INTO ART Find a template for grouping several photos of various sizes. Pick your favorite photos and render them in black and white. Either place them in white frames or have them printed on canvas or mounted on glass. 18 AVIDA LIVING CHANGE THE CABINET DOOR HANDLES Even if you buy the most expensive ones in the store, you only need a few—and these can make such a big difference in your room’s look. UPGRADE YOUR CURTAINS Everybody looks out the window. Frame the view with stylish drapes, sheers, and cords. There are hundreds of styles and fabrics. If you have a window seat, pull the look together with coordinating throw pillows. PLAY WITH THE LIGHT With the right lighting, even a cheap vase will look like a museum piece, or your shower can appear like a luxurious spa. Lighting a space also draws the eye and makes it look larger, so try uplighting under the stairs, small recessed spaces, or your balcony. GET GOOD LINENS The bed is the biggest and most important piece of furniture in your bedroom, so make it special. Buy the best pillows (you deserve a good night’s rest!) and then go to town with the linens. Even if the rest of your room is fairly simple and bare, a printed bedspread with a distinctive design can already make an impact. HAVE A SCENT OF STYLE Decorating isn’t just a visual problem. If wearing Chanel No. 5 can make you feel classy even if you’re just in jeans and a white shirt, home fragrances can also make a simple room a sanctuary. Build a scent library: vanilla and musk for a special evening with your hubby, pumpkin and cinnamon scents for holiday parties, mint and sage for de-stressing with a glass of wine. WORK ON THE FIRST IMPRESSION What’s the first thing you see when you walk through the front door? That’s the corner you need to focus on. Clear that area and put only what makes you happy or what best represents your decorating theme. It’s a great place for your family wall art or collection (see tip # 2 or #3), and it's definitely where you need to set up that dramatic lighting (see tip # 6). HIDE THE CORDS Cords are the ugly reality of a wired life. Pin them against the wall (neater and prettier) or drill a hole through the cabinet for the wires to slip through. Just label the ends so you don’t have to wade through the mess just to connect your sound system. PLAY WITH WALL DECALS These super-sized stickers are like instant murals that can transform a boring white bathroom wall or add whimsy to a child’s room. Just remember that decals are most impressive when the rest of the area is simple. Otherwise, they just add to the visual clutter. THINK INSIDE OF THE BOX For many condo dwellers, the living room multi tasks as a home office, study room, and play area. Keep office supplies, toys, and other goods in labeled boxes. No need to hide them: wicker baskets or fabric-covered boxes actually add to the charm of a room. … OR PUT IN THE BAG If you don’t have room for even boxes, choose coordinating fabrics and have them made into sling bags. Hang them on a wall or a door rack. You can also use plain burlap, linen or cotton, and “label” them at any of the mall stores that personalize items. ADD MORE PLANTS You don’t need mad ikebana skills. Just buy a bunch of flowers at the market, and place them in tin cans or Mason jars. These small bouquets of sunshine will brighten up a kitchen counter, guest bathroom, or altar. KEEP ONLY WHAT INSPIRES YOU A stylish home should be inspiring. Everything in it makes you work better, feel better, or be grateful that you have the life you have. Look at all the things you own right now. If they don’t contribute to your quality of life, then they’re not a collection— they’re clutter. Throw or give it away and make room for something that does. 19 INVESTMENTS FOR THE SMART & STYLISH Thanks to Avida Land, it’s easy to live the better life I n a city peppered with property options left and right, how do you choose the right one that fits your lifestyle? Do you choose a home with unbeatable location, one which has easy payment terms, or another that’s teeming with style? With Avida, decision-making is made easier because home buyers can be sure that all these factors are rolled into one irresistible package. As one of the country’s most recognized property and community developers, Avida ensures that its discerning home buyers are spoilt for choice. More than delivering wise and practical investments, Avida has also carefully blended form and function with its impressive and everexpanding portfolio of properties that meets buyers’ varying aesthetic wants and lifestyle needs. CONDOS THAT TOWER IN STYLE These days, people live fast-paced lifestyles that they barely have the time to sit still and relax. That is why many are opting for condo living, owing to its many perks and conveniences. For one, owning a condo unit allows someone the benefit of a home with manageable responsibilities and superior amenities. With most condos having 24-hour security surveillance, recreation and fitness facilities, and accessibility to commercial establishments, there’s no surprise why people—the younger generation, especially—are living it up in the comfort of their decked out condo units. 20 AVIDA LIVING S T Y L I N G K R I Z I A G O , A S S I S T E D B Y V I E N M A R T I N | H A I R A N D M A K E U P B Y E L A I N E G A N U E L A S | M O D E L S M A R T I N A N D A N J E L I C A O F M E R C AT O R BY CORRINE RAMOS | PHOTOS BY JAR CONCENGCO ON ANJELICA: White sleeveless crop top, Zina Kiel (P1500) White pencil skirt w/ side slit, Zina Kiel (P1875) Mustard wool coat, Zina Kiel (P3100) Black pumps, Model’s own Pearl dangling earrings, Kikay Accessories (P495) Black snakeskin bag, Michael Kors (price available upon request) ON MARTIN: White long sleeve button down shirt, Uniqlo (P790) Navy blue blazer, Anthony Ramirez (price available upon request) Navy blue trousers, Anthony Ramirez (price available upon request) Black leather shoes, Model’s own Blue aviators, Betsey Johnson (price available upon request) 21 White turtle-neck dress, Kg Stylehub @kg_stylehub (P900) White snakeskin kimmy mandals, Naleigh shop @naleighshop (P850) White dangling earrings, Kikay Accessories (P480) Gold Bangle, Forever 21 (P330) 22 AVIDA LIVING ON ANJELICA: Black pinstripe halter blouse, Plains and Prints (P899) White shorts, Penshoppe (P499) ON MARTIN: Blue-gray long sleeve button down shirt, Zina Kiel (P3375) Faded denim jeans, Mosquito(price available upon request) White canvass sneakers, Penshoppe (P 999) Not to falter behind trends, Avida is catering to these modern-day individuals with a string of upand-coming developments tailored just for them. One stylish investment poised to tower in style is the Avida Towers One Union Place, which is the developer’s first venture in the emerging hub that is ARCA South. Only a 10-minute drive from NAIA and only 5km to 7km away from Makati and Bonifacio Global City, this rising three-tower residential condominium development is a showcase of modern-contemporary design. Here, Avida makes a resounding statement of style and function, with familiar conveniences masterfully weaved in its modern architecture. Even the amenities are beaming with taste. Residents can enjoy top-notch amenities which include adult and kiddie pools, pool and view decks, a multi purpose hall, children’s play area, indoor gym, game room, and landscaped areas. Folks who prefer more exceptional living have another option in Avida’s most premium residential development called The Montane. Situated on 8th avenue, the center of the Active North side of BGC, the Montane is set to redefine condo living with touches of simple sophistication in its design. Ideal for young urbanites who seek the solace of green spaces without leaving an urban landscape, everything here is executed to light up residents’ lifestyles from their units to the tower’s manicured gardens. STYLED UP HOMES While the hip condo life offers convenience fit for the lifestyle of the younger generation, homes appeal to traditional-minded people or young families who prefer the permanence of a home. One advantage of buying a home is having more control over the property. If you wish to remodel a room or design the garden, there’s much more freedom to do so. Even better is the greater privacy you get in having a home that’s separated from your neighbor by green spaces and not just walls. Typically, people who gravitate towards this home setting are those who want to get away from the bedlam of the city and quietly raise a family. Avida understands this need, with most of the Avida home settings situated outside Manila, where open spaces and a more subdued lifestyle can be had. One exciting development in the calm countryside environment of NUVALI is Avida Southfield Settings. The latest sequel to the successful Avida Settings series in Nuvali, Avida Southfield Settings takes suburban living to new heights. It’s safe, secure, and strategically welldesigned, ideal for young families. 23 Avida’s affinity for tasteful designs is evident in their homes as well. The new house models named Celine, Macy, and Trista carry the same modern contemporary sophistication as its towering counterparts in the city. Here, the houses are designed to complement NUVALI’s lush landscape. As such, residents can enjoy a beautiful home with enhanced natural ventilation, and practical and efficient use of space to boot. With family-oriented amenities such as adult and kiddie swimming pools, basketball courts and landscaped parks to encourage healthy interactions and active lifestyles, Avida Southfield Settings succeeds in creating the perfect suburban playground. Coupled with its accessibility to virtually everything and anything you’ll need, the range of amenities makes living here comfortable for the kids and satisfying for the adults. With versatility, style, and functionality at the helm of their development objectives, Avida truly sets itself apart by being the perfect choice for people looking to make an investment that are as smart and stylish as their hip, design-savvy homeowners. May it be for individuals, newlyweds or young families, Avida proves that they aren’t just experts in building homes and communities worth investing in. They’re also pros in doing so with flair. 24 AVIDA LIVING ON ANJELICA: White tank top, Nava (P590) Mint green lace sleeveless top, Kg Stylehub @kg_stylehub (P550) White shorts, Penshoppe (P499) ON MARTIN: Black v-neck long sleeve shirt, Zara (P995) Faded denim jeans, Mosquito (price available upon request) ON ANJELICA: Vintage dress, (P4550) Pearl necklace, Kg Stylehub @kg_stylehub (P300) ON MARTIN: White v-neck long sleeve shirt, Zara (P995) Black slim fit blazer, Topman (P2699) Black slim fit trousers, G2000 (P4495) 25 ALABANG, THE MEGA SOUTH Discovering the sights and sounds at the other end of the metropolis by gel de rivera After coasting along the Skyway is this charming, world-of-its-own enclave thriving with fantastic restaurants, local haunts, and hot spots. Alabang’s charm is that within its territory you can find anything and everything. That Avida Towers Altura is cushioned right in the South Park District is enough reason to check out both the condominium and the signature laid-back living in the South. CUENCA BAZAAR The St. James The Great Bazaar or better known as Cuenca Bazaar attracts Alabang locals, its neighbor residents, and even visitors from the other side of the highway every time it sets up its collection of high-end merchants. With over 600 concessionaires, it’s a favorite place among the locals to hang out and enjoy the crowds, shop for last minute Christmas gifts, and eat specialty foods from Christmas favorites like bibingka 26 AVIDA LIVING and puto bumbong to decadent pastries and homemade goodies. RAMEN YUSHOKEN One must really take the time to drive down to this Alabang spot to savor its incredible ramen and other Japanese specialties. Unlike other ramen brands that have been popping branches all over the metro, Ramen Yushoken remains loyal to its southern roots serving their signature noodle bowls. Favorites include the different varieties of Tonkotsu ramen and sides of gyoza and karaage. CAVIAR RESTAURANT AND CHAMPAGNE BAR For those searching for some upscale dining experience in the area, Caviar will easily come to mind. Its sleek interiors, extensive wine list, and European-inspired menu will definitely captivate its diners. Managed by the Van Der Walles family, they regularly update their menu with ingredients sourced from smallscale farmers here and abroad. And as the name suggests, they also have an impressive caviar menu for those who plan to splurge. MANDARINE REFLEXOLOGY AND SPA After a long stressful day, don’t you just want to relax and have someone massage the worries away? Mandarine Spa does just that with its mission to rejuvenate and restore your energy to the fullest. Their specialty lies with their foot reflexology as this form of massage helps heal vital parts of the body through the pressure points on the feet. CUENCA BAZAAR Cuenca Street, Ayala Alabang Village, Muntinlupa City, Metro Manila RAMEN YUSHOKEN Molito Lifestyle Mall, Madrigal Avenue corner Commerce Street, Alabang, Muntinlupa (02) 808-7424 CAVIAR RESTAURANT AND CHAMPAGNE BAR Unit A-206 Westgate Center, Alabang, Muntinlupa City (02) 552-7930 MANDARINE REFLEXOLOGY AND SPA Westgate, Alabang, Muntinlupa City (02) 556-4209 CAVIAR - PHOTOS COURTESY OF CAVIAR RESTAURANT. CUENCA - PHOTOS COURTESY OF CUENCA BAZAAR. RAMEN YUSHOKEN - PHOTO BY JC INOCIAN CITY ESCAPE THE BEST OF MAGINHAWA STREET This quaint corner in Quezon City has more than meets the eye by gel de rivera A quiet little neighborhood turned into a bustling commercial community, Maginhawa Street has slowly emerged as a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike. It’s for those who crave the cozy yet energetic vibe from its small restaurant rows, boutique stores, and hipster joints. Looking to pull off the sartorial life? Station yourself at Avida Towers Vita to bring out your cooler side. from old Manila. Every corner of the house is covered with decades-old trinkets, posters, and furniture that bring diners back in time. The experience is rounded up with the restaurant’s menu of heirloom recipes, some of which originated from different parts of the country. For starters, try the Spicy Intramuros Gambas and Dinakdakan. For mains, choose the Grilled Pork Chop with Salsa Monja, Pancit 1913, and Piassok. Dessert must-tries include Kesong Puti and Langka Fry and Buttery Ensaimada with a side of hot Rico Tsokolate. ‘70S BISTRO This QC hotspot is one the best places to catch the latest talents of the Filipino music scene. It’s a great place to enjoy the late nights with upbeat music, cold drinks, and fun times with friends. Come in a little early to reserve the best spot. BOOKAY-UKAY The allure of books will never go out of style—that’s what this secondhand bookstore is all about. Bookay-Ukay is a sparkling troves filled with literary favorites, though you’d have to go through shelves. The books are already sold at discounted prices and they also carry hard to find comics and book series. UP DILIMAN Diliman, Quezon City BREAKFAST AND PIES 39 Malingap Street, Teacher’s Village West, Quezon City (02) 441-1773 ADARNA FOOD AND CULTURE 119 Kalayaan Avenue, Diliman, Quezon City (02) 926-8712 ‘70s BISTRO 46 Anonas Street, Project 2, Quezon City (02) 434-3597 BOOKAY-UKAY 78 Maginhawa Street, Teacher’s Village East, Diliman, Quezon City (0917) 647-4956 ADARNA - PHOTOS COURTESY OF ADARNA FOOD & CULTURE. UP DILIMAN - LANTERN PARADE PHOTO BY MIA SAGUINSIN. UP GROUNDS BY RICCO TORRES UP DILIMAN Living near a university campus has a lot of advantages, and the University of the Philippines is no different. One can run, ride bikes, and take picnics on the sprawling grounds. Visitors can even watch weekend concerts and plays advertised in school bulletins. There are also the favorite eats dotted all over the place like Chocolate Kiss Cafe and Rodic’s Diner. Another notable school highlight is the UP Lantern Parade during Christmas season where the students showcase their talents with giant glowing floats parading all over the campus. BREAKFAST AND PIES Chef Ed Bugia’s all-day breakfast nook in Malingap is a favorite among locals. It serves fantastic, well-thought out meals like the Caramelized Spam, Kitayama Wagyu Beef Sirloin Tapa, and Huevos Rancheros. Pastries and breads are also made from scratch daily. It's the perfect pit stop after an early morning run or for those who prefer to have a decadent brunch around the neighborhood. The pie offerings on the other hand are a different story. Luscious flavors like the Smack Pie, Butterfinger Pie, Creme Brulee, and Apple Gruyere Pie are the ones to get. ADARNA FOOD AND CULTURE Adarna is a treat for the eyes, ears, and of course the taste buds. History buffs will love this heritage-house-turned-themerestaurant encapsulated with treasures 27 THE COOL SIDE OF BGC You’ll love BGC North Side’s eclectic charm and modern offerings by gel de rivera Bonifacio Global City has long been celebrated as the area to explore in the metro. Because of the fast growing developments especially in the active North Side, you’ll certainly take another glance to discover the newer things it has to offer. This little hidden gem located at the ground floor of the W Tower in 39th St. is an epicurean’s happy place. This private kitchen/restaurant owned by Ginny De Guzman serves spectacular customized set meals. The best part is you can take home specialty food, both savory and sweet, to revel in before coming back for more. Their Christmas goodies are also a must try or can be given as edible presents. BALKAN YUGOSLAVIAN HOME COOKING Looking for more than the usual meals? Try Balkan and discover the homey flavors of Yugoslavian cuisine. The name of some selections maybe a bit of a tongue twist, but the owner, Marko Batricevic will gladly curate the choices. If it’s your first time, go for the light Arugula Salad with Feta or the hearty Goulash soup. Next would be the Stuffed Pljeskavica (ground beef steak stuffed with mozzarella), Becka or Wiener Schnitzel, or the Jagnjetina (imported lamb). End with a big plate of Palacinke or Serbian crepes flavored with jam, chocolate or eurokrem. FLYING TRAPEZE PHILIPPINES Fly high with this latest outdoor activity in BGC. Nope, it’s not just for the circus anymore. Anyone can join and take lessons from Flying Trapeze Philippines, the first and only flying trapeze rig in the country. Skill levels go from beginner, intermediate, and advanced. It’s also considered a great alternative workout since upper body and core muscles are strengthened with every try. 28 AVIDA LIVING SKINNY MIKE’S SPORTS RESTAURANT AND FAT BENNY’S ROCK BAR You just got to love the energy happening at these two BGC haunts located beside the MC Home Depot. Skinny Mike’s is the best place to enjoy big international and local sports games from boxing matches, world cups to inter-university finals. On regular days it even hosts a trivia night with its indispensable sports category. Fat Benny’s on the other hand comes alive with live acts from up-andcoming musicians and bands. It also offers a nice view of BGC while enjoying chill sounds from the ongoing shows. GUSTARE Ground Floor, W Tower, 39th Street, North Bonifacio Triangle, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig (02) 403-0345 FLYING TRAPEZE PHILIPPINES 34th Street corner 9th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig (0917) 242-0331 www.trapeze.ph BALKAN YUGOSLAVIAN HOME COOKING 2/F Crossroad Bldg., 32nd Avenue, BGC, Bonifacio Global City (02) 403-8364 SKINNY MIKE’S SPORTS RESTAURANT AND FAT BENNY’S ROCK BAR (Skinny Mike’s) 2nd and (Fat Benny’s) 3rd Floor, 32nd Street, Justicia Drive, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig (02) 823-9499 for both establishments BALKAN - PHOTOS COURTESY OF BALKAN RESTAURANT. FAT BENNY'S - PHOTOS BY SHARLENE GILLIAN. SKINNY MIKE'S - PHOTOS COURTESY OF SKINNY MIKE'S. TRAPEZE PHILIPPINES - PHOTOS COURTESY OF TRAPEZE PHILIPPINES GUSTARE other holistic packages to suit the needs of their guests. PINK SISTERS CONVENT Stop by the Convent of Divine Mercy and say a little prayer or attend a mass if on schedule. As a going-away treat, purchase some of the goodies made by the Pink Sisters. We highly recommend the cookies! MAHOGANY MARKET Want to know a secret? They say that this is where you can find the best bulalo in Tagaytay. Mahogany Market is also a great source of produce and meats locally grown in the province. Awesome finds here include potted herbs and fruit-bearing trees and local fish—indigenous in Taal Lake. BREAKFAST AT ANTONIO'S - PHOTOS COURTESY OF BREAKFAST AT ANTONIO'S. NURTURE SPA - PHOTOS COURTESY OF NURTURE SPA TAAL VISTA - PHOTOS COURTESY OF TAAL VISTA HOTEL BAG OF BEANS Enjoying the cool ambience of Tagaytay wouldn’t be complete without a cup of freshly brewed coffee. Bag of Beans packages their own brew with varieties like Arabica Robusta, Excelsa Barako, and even Kape Alamid. They also have a lovely selection of pastries to go along with the coffee experience. TAAL VISTA LODGE THE ALLURE OF TAGAYTAY Take pleasure within the Summer Capital of the Philippines by gel de rivera Tagaytay will always be near and dear to our hearts since it’s one of the best escapes from the hustle and bustle of the city. Imagine living in Serin West Tagaytay where you are guaranteed majestic views, a calm atmosphere, and easy access to these countryside havens. ANTONIO’S BREAKFAST Yes, this is the place you should visit when breakfast (or any meal for that matter) calls for some rustic decadence and absolute country pleasure. Its stark white wooden paneling and mahogany flooring are inviting and the service, impeccable. As for the food, try the signature jams, breads, and other specially made treats sold at their counter store. NURTURE WELLNESS VILLAGE Calm, serene, and utterly in bliss—that’s what you’ll feel as soon as you try the treatments at Nurture Wellness Village. For years this spa haven has been offering world-class spa treatments and For decades, Taal Vista Lodge has opened its doors to Tagaytay visitors. No need to book a room to enjoy its services. You can either have lunch or just pass the day strolling along its view deck that has a majestic view of Taal Volcano. During the weekends they also have merchants who sell souvenirs, organic produce, and specialty goods like powdered turmeric tea and dried tawilis. ANTONIO’S BREAKFAST Aguinaldo Highway, Brgy. Bagong Tubig, Tagaytay City (046) 413-0738 NURTURE WELLNESS VILLAGE Pulong Sagingan, Barangay Maitim II West Cavite, Tagaytay City (02) 710-9786, (0918) 888-8772 www. nurturewellnessvillage. com PINK SISTERS CONVENT Holy Spirit Drive, Brgy. Maitim 2nd East Tagaytay City MAHOGANY MARKET Mahogany Avenue, Tagaytay City BAG OF BEANS www.bagofbeans.com.ph TAAL VISTA LODGE Km. 60, Aguinaldo Highway, Tagaytay City (02) 917-8225 www.taalvistahotel.com 29 HE AL T H & F A M I LI E S DIVINE DESSERTS Two incredibly easy and delicious holiday-perfect desserts that—wait for it, require no baking by cecille esperanza Strawberry and Kiwi Parfait SERVES 4 Ingredients: 1 cup sliced strawberries 1 teaspoon sugar 4 mamon, diced 1 cup plain Greek yogurt 1/2 cup diced green kiwi 1/2 cup crumbled granola bar Directions: 1. In a bowl, combine strawberries and sugar. Set aside. 2. In a Mason jar, place mamon at the bottom and tightly press down. 3. Spoon Greek yogurt. Top with kiwi. Repeat layering. 4. Chill about an hour and sprinkle granola on top before serving. Red Velvet Trifle SERVES 4 Directions: 1. In a Mason jar, place red velvet cake at the bottom and tightly press down. 2. Spoon whipped cream. Top red velvet cake. Spoon nutella. Repeat layering. 3. Chill for about an hour. Pipe Nutella on top and garnish with almonds before serving. 30 AVIDA LIVING PHOTOS FROM SIMPLYSOUTHERNBAKING.COM AND CARMELMOMENTS.COM Ingredients: 4 cups diced red velvet cake 1 cup cream, whipped 1 cup Nutella sliced almonds, for garnish ENTERTAINMENT THE NEWS FEED Keep up with the hottest music acts, sip a cocktail while immersing yourself in an exciting book, and experience the apps that matter. by steven gonzales MUSIC B OOK FALLING INTO PLACE, AMY ZHANG Physics and heartbreak drive the plot of a popular high school junior named Liz Emerson. One day, she slams her car into a tree, but her attempt at suicide goes amiss and she ends up in a coma. Now, it's not just the laws of physics that are in play; her actions have drawn out loneliness and sadness among her loved ones, making this novel an even more emotional read. JESSIE WARE, TOUGH LOVE PHOTOS FROM CHRISTINAPERRI.COM, INGRIDMICHAELSON.COM, AND MONEYMAX.PH British phenom Jessie Ware fortifies her command of poignant pop on her sophomore release Tough Love with radio-friendly ditties that pulsate with every hook and chorus. The reverberating title track sees Ware display her breathy vocals, lamenting about a love that’s beyond her grasp, while “Say You Love Me”, co-written with fellow Brit marvel Ed Sheeran smolders with such tantalizing passion—wait for the choral backing near the end—that it’s hard not to fall in love with her noble effort at coming out with a record that’s syrupy, tear-jerking, and dusky all at the same time. A PP S STARS, NO ONE IS LOST Nearly 15 years into their career, Canadian indie pop proponents continue to march on with their trademark sound and lyrical depth. On their seventh album, Stars dallies with electronic dance music on a bigger scale than they have ever done. “From the Night” emphasizes this synth-centered direction yet still maintains the boy-girl vocal traipsing of Torquil Campbell and Amy Millan. If the title cut is anything to go by, Stars have created an earnest collection of club bangers—and that’s no easy feat. INBOX BY GMAIL It's an even more organized way of tracking everything you need: promotions, purchases, and travels are all grouped together in Bundles. Highlights lets you glance at key information. To-dos and reminders are easier, with an interface that’s simple and userfriendly. Google.com/inbox PHOTOMATH The smart camera calculator teaches users how to solve mathematical equations just by hovering the camera over the problems; a step-by-step solution is even provided. You can use this for simple linear equations, fractions and decimals, arithmetic expressions, and powers and roots. Photomath.net 31 NEWS { AVIDA CORPOR ATE EVENTS } Avida Food Hunt: EAT LIKE A LOCAL TAGAYTAY Weekend Country Brew: A CURATED TAGAYTAY AND COFFEE LIFESTYLE EVENT WEEKEND 32 AVIDA LIVING Project Homepossible COMMUNITY { CELEBR ATING COMMUNIT Y BONDS } Halloween Events AT AVIDA RESIDENCES DASMARINAS AND AVIDA SETTINGS CAVITE
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