MAKATI CITY — There is a new name on Makati's skyline, and it comes with a pedigree that includes Apple Park in California and The Gherkin in London. The Estate Makati, developed through a joint venture between SM Residences and Federal Land, marks the first residential project in the Philippines by globally renowned architecture firm Foster + Partners. Located along Apartment Ridge in the heart of Makati's commercial core, this 188-unit low-density tower is designed to do something no other condo in the country has done before. Set to open its doors to homeowners starting in the first half of 2027, the development begins with a simple defining idea: homes should evolve with the people who live in them.
A Pioneering Double-Slab System for Adaptable Living
The most distinctive feature of The Estate Makati is its pioneering double-slab system, which creates a one-meter space between floors to conceal plumbing and electrical systems. This structural innovation allows homeowners to reconfigure their space over time, whether adjusting layouts, expanding rooms, or adapting the home to new routines without major renovation work. A column-free layout further supports this flexibility, enabling each residence to function as a blank canvas rather than a fixed floor plan. As Foster + Partners' project lead and partner Perry Ip explained, the essence of the project lies in how much flexibility it gives residents to shape their own space.
A Low-Density Tower Designed for Tropical Living
Standing at 60 stories, The Estate Makati is intentionally low in density with only 188 units, supporting privacy and a more considered living experience. Private lift access further enhances this sense of exclusivity, while the building's cruciform layout positions each residence as a corner unit, maximizing views, natural light, and airflow. Deep horizontal fins on the facade provide essential shading and reduce solar gain, specifically tailored for the tropical climate. Operable windows allow controlled ventilation, integrating environmental performance into the design in practical ways rather than treating it as an afterthought.
A Dialogue Between Two Worlds: Urban Access and Residential Retreat
Located along Apartment Ridge, the development sits at the heart of Makati's commercial core while maintaining a quieter, more exclusive character. Perry Ip describes this unique positioning as "a dialogue between two worlds," where residents move from a very urban condition to something quieter within a short distance. A private, landscaped approach creates a physical buffer from the surrounding streets, separating the development from the urban environment from the moment of arrival. The ground level is organized as a series of spaces rather than a single lobby, reinforcing a more residential, less institutional feel. This contrast shaped the design from the beginning, balancing access to the city with a genuine sense of retreat.
Future-Proofing Against Obsolescence
The Estate Makati takes a timeless approach to residential design, allowing homes to adapt alongside the lives unfolding within them. The double-slab system, column-free layouts, and integrated sustainable features are intended to prevent the building from becoming obsolete over time. Rainwater collection and electric vehicle infrastructure support more efficient daily living, while the facade reduces heat gain and reliance on mechanical cooling. As Ip stated, the building will evolve with its residents and remain relevant for generations. With turnover scheduled for the first half of 2027, The Estate Makati represents a significant addition to the Philippines' luxury residential landscape.
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