The dawn of a new year typically signals a period of reevaluation and resolution for many, leading to changes in one’s life, whether temporary or of a more permanent nature. With Metro Manila becoming increasingly congested, a steady trickle of prospective homeowners began looking further south as a potential area to move into, with the allure of an urban oasis that was less populated and provided lots of fresh air to breathe proving to be enough of an enticement for many.

Don Tim Development Corporation (DTDC) CEO Audric Leong shares, “Before the pandemic, people wanted to get away from the city and enjoy the cool climate of Tagaytay,” and adds that the proximity to the capital was another reason why people flocked to the hilled city. After the pandemic hit, however, the reasons for escaping to Tagaytay became much more nuanced. Sheltering within the confines of one’s homes in the metro quickly became constrictive, and when it was deemed that open-air areas were the safest spaces, the lack of those became even more apparent.

As the CEO of DTDC, one of the first developers in Tagaytay, Leong shares that they foresaw this trend way back in 2016, owing to the rate of growth within the country. He proudly mentions DTDC now having “…a surge of clients wanting to move in or settle their balances so they can avail their homes.” He surmises the reason behind the uptick in interest, “Tagaytay is the place where everyone dreams of having a home, it is a mark that life is good. Even just the idea of going to Tagaytay is soothing in itself.

2 12 Escape the stifling metro into a peaceful community with homes designed with the new normal in mind
10 Escape the stifling metro into a peaceful community with homes designed with the new normal in mind
12 1 Escape the stifling metro into a peaceful community with homes designed with the new normal in mind

Montebello, DTDC’s expansive residential boutique development along with Alfonso, Cavite, is the embodiment of the developer’s mission to give Filipinos access to better homes and communities. Just this year, DTDC introduced two new home models that will rise within the Montebello community.

3 6 Escape the stifling metro into a peaceful community with homes designed with the new normal in mind
4 1 Escape the stifling metro into a peaceful community with homes designed with the new normal in mind
5 1 Escape the stifling metro into a peaceful community with homes designed with the new normal in mind

Daphne: An abode built to last

The first is Daphne, a single attached house and lot which invokes the vibe of the Asian Tropics, and renders locally available materials for a warm, earthy abode that one will look forward to coming home to. Using clean and simple details that can withstand the elements, it was designed to maximize Metro Tagaytay’s natural sunlight and cool breeze via provisions for the full opening living area sliding doors complete with transom window jalousies that allow for maximum air circulation within the house. Each unit features a second-floor balcony where residents can have a meditative experience even within the confines of their home. But the best feature within Daphne is the adaptable spaces brimming with endless possibilities, as they can be utilized according to a resident’s aesthetic or functional preferences.

7 1 Escape the stifling metro into a peaceful community with homes designed with the new normal in mind
8 1 Escape the stifling metro into a peaceful community with homes designed with the new normal in mind
9 1 Escape the stifling metro into a peaceful community with homes designed with the new normal in mind

Lotus Twins: A duplex bungalow designed in a contemporary Asian style

The second new home model, Lotus Twins, was launched just this October, features open, flexible layouts, allowing for better ventilation and will afford its future residents an efficient use of its space. Each Twin, or half of these duplexes, measure 108 square meters in gross floor area and will feature two bedrooms, a kitchen, living area, as well as toilet and bath. The Lotus Twins also have an Asian Contemporary Design, with wood panels stylishly added throughout the home to give the space a warmer, cozier feel. Much like the Daphne, the Lotus was designed to maximize the natural sunlight and airflow that the location has, so residents can conserve energy and make the most out of the cool local climate.

Another key feature that both the Daphne and Lotus home models share is that both have provisions for expansion, to allow growing or extended families to add spaces for a better living experience. For the Daphne, homeowners may turn portions of the rear yard into floor spaces to create either an extended kitchen, living area, den, or even an additional bedroom. As for the Lotus, homeowners have the option to purchase the tandem unit and integrate a block out or opening at the common wall to conjoin the two units and create a larger, interconnected space.

Montebello offers more than just homes, however. Among the first-class amenities one will get to enjoy when purchasing a home within the development is a clubhouse complex designed to call to mind a resort community for residents. It includes adult and kiddie swimming pools, full-size basketball and tennis courts, a children’s playground, and other wide-open spaces ideal for picnics, strolling, jogging, biking, and other outdoor activities. But more than that, it also holds the promise of living within a community.

Don Tim Development Corporation (DTDC) is a real estate development firm based in Metro Manila, with residential subdivision projects in Tagaytay City, Alfonso, and Silang, Cavite. A family corporation spanning two generations, DTDC is driven by its mission to enhance the quality of Filipino families’ lives – offering affordable, functional premium homes and first-rate amenities, in prime locations across the Cavite area.

Visit www.dontim.com.ph to know more or contact +632 8843 -9471 for any inquiries.