WRAPPED around the hill with an expansive view of the Cagayan de Oro City and Macajalar Bay, the clubhouse is a complex composed of pavilions linked by walkways.

Designed with the intent of reflecting the architectural theme of the village which is termed “Organic tropical”, the clubhouse structure started with the inspiration from the designs of American architect Frank Lloyd Wright. With the swimming pool, the sports facilities, and the landscaping, it aimed to relate organically to its natural setting.

Organic architecture is defined as a philosophy of architecture which promotes harmony between human habitation and the natural world through design approaches so sympathetic and well integrated with its site that buildings, furnishings, and surroundings become part of a unified, interrelated composition.

“We wanted the structures to appear to be hugging or wrapped around the prominent hill. They would seem to organically grow out from the ground rather than being unnaturally placed on top of it,” architect Jonas Suan of Ayala Land-Vismin’s Innovation and Design Group explained.

Tropical features were considered in the design. Elements such as broad eaves and large openings among others make the clubhouse responsive to the local climate. Local Mangima stones were used as façade accents. Indigenous flora was also considered in the landscape design.

“We tried to present the materials as true to its nature as much as possible which is what we believe an important character of organic architecture,” Suan added. To maximize the natural setting of Alegria Hills, the views both from within and towards the complex were studied. Even the experience as one approaches the clubhouse was considered. Elements such as the pool deck, the balconies, and the vertical accent wall at the entrance were positioned to achieve optimum effect.

Open spaces and skylights were used to maximize natural lighting and ventilation in keeping with sustainable design. The structure was built along proper sun and wind orientation, following the contours of the land and corresponding with the natural rolling terrain.

Perhaps the most prominent feature of the clubhouse is the 25-meter infinity pool with an expansive view of the bustling city. Beside it is a kiddie pool where children can safely swim.

The clubhouse also features a multipurpose hall, a function room where residents and their guests can have parties and gatherings close to home. A fitness gym is also located underneath the social hall where residents can work out to complement their active lifestyle.

The sports facilities area features a basketball court and a covered badminton court for sports enthusiasts.

“Attention will definitely be given to enabling residents to appreciate and connect with nature, a tenet espoused by organic architecture. There will be canyon trails and parks, gardens and orchards, places where residents can be themselves, and yet be one with creation,” architectural consultant Marcos de Guzman, Jr. said.

The clubhouse is the second facility to be completed in Alegria Hills. The chapel in the grove was completed in March of 2009 which was marked with the celebration of a mass. The chapel has since become an ideal place for prayer and meditation in the midst of Alegria Hills’ scenic environment.

Master planned by Ayala Land, Alegria Hills shall offer a higher level of comfort, serenity and security that only an Ayala Land Premier community can provide to assure residents of quality, commitment and enduring value, a sure reward for their success.

About Alegria Hills

Alegria Hills, following the Spanish word “Alegria” which means joy and merriment, is Ayala Land’s first residential offering in Mindanao.

An exclusive residential community carrying the distinction of Ayala Land Premier, Alegria Hills is set amidst a prime location on a highland plateau of Cagayan de Oro that boasts of 360° view of the city, Macajalar Bay and the mountains.

Inspired by organic tropical architecture, the masterplan provides scenic roads to traverse, canyon trails, ravine pocket parks and orchards to explore. There will be a clubhouse and other perks but at the center of all these shall be a chapel in a tree grove, an oasis of the community’s shared dreams and values.

A mere 10 minutes away from Cagayan de Oro’s Limketkai Center and major business district, Alegria Hills offers a home high above the ordinary world that is secure, serene, nurturing and inspiring.

For inquiries please contact [email protected] or call at +63 9063721666.

from Business Week Mindanao





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