Most people living in urban areas reside in congested and cramped neighborhoods, where homes are built so close together that all four walls of a property are either just a few feet away from—or even shared with—the neighboring house. To make matters worse, these sturdy concrete walls absorb and retain heat throughout the day.
I know this feeling well, for I once lived in our ancestral home in the heart of Davao City, along one of its busiest streets, which has since become lined with commercial establishments. I can truthfully say that the air we breathed every day was filled with dust and pollution. Our household helpers would clean the house twice daily—once after we left in the morning and again before the family arrived home for dinner.
What is surprisingly lacking in many densely built urban neighborhoods are the gardens, trees, and open lawns that provide fresh air, breathing space, and opportunities to connect with nature.
It wasn’t until my early professional and married life that I decided to move out of our ancestral home and purchase a property in an exclusive subdivision perched on a hill, offering commanding views of the city, fewer neighboring homes, and building restrictions that ensured more generous open spaces.
Several years have passed, and I am now planning to build my third family home on the outskirts of Davao City. It will be located in a Thai- and Bali-inspired residential community with wide lots, landscaped center islands, tree-lined streets, open spaces, and thoughtfully designed amenities.
Why build a third home? The answer is simple. Having been deprived of greenery during my early years in the inner city, I now long to breathe fresh air, smell the grass, and be surrounded by trees and nature.
Nature has a remarkable way of calming the senses. It brings peace of mind amid the demands of work and offers a sense of serenity that is increasingly difficult to find in highly urbanized environments. Green spaces also add long-term value to a property while contributing to better mental and physical well-being. More importantly, they encourage people to become more socially engaged and connected with their communities.
The truth is, I have become healthier and happier living in a place surrounded by gardens, open spaces, and nature. I have found these qualities in Amiya Resort Residences in Davao City.
An added bonus is that my properties sit atop a crest overlooking the beautiful and unobstructed fairways of Apo Golf and Country Club. I can already imagine waking up each morning, breathing the fresh air, taking in the scent of the grass, enjoying the majestic view of Mount Apo, and sipping a warm cup of tea.
Beautiful.
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