It’s a flexible arrangement and an ideal alternative to pricey hotel stays. And as Lyf Malate Manila has shown, as it opened its doors recently to the public, coliving is not just a passing trend, but a growing phenomenon that’s definitely here to stay.
Text and photos by Dexter Francis De Vera
The idea of having to mingle with strangers in communal settings and later retreating to one’s personal space has become more attractive the world over in recent years, especially among young professionals, students and so-called digital nomads. Dubbed as coliving, this flexible arrangement is also becoming an ideal alternative to expensive hotel accommodations. But the option to colive need not be limited to young people on a shoestring budget. No matter what your age and lifestyle are, there’s a coliving space that’s a good fit for you.
A stone’s throw away from the Light Railway Transit along Taft Avenue and within one of Manila’s vibrant areas is the newly opened Lyf Malate Manila. Its proximity to an array of business and entertainment establishments as well as a host of iconic landmarks, from heritage sites to museums, makes it all the more convenient and attractive. And its opening couldn’t have come at a better time.
For one, it offers a unique option for accommodating travelers and locals alike that combines the best of both worlds—the convenience of a hotel and the community feel of a shared house. What’s more, as The Ascott Limited’s coliving solution, its reputation can’t be put in doubt. It also fills in the void between pricey five-star accommodations and the supposed value for money short and long-term homestays charge.
Rising class
“There’s a rising class of millennials with spending power and they’re not looking for hotels or serviced apartments,” explains Joycelyn Pascual-Agsaway, Lyf Malate Manila’s so-called Champion. “They want something more unique, more socially driven, more fun.”
As part of Lyf’s initiative to enliven guests’ stay, the Lyf crew consisting of Lyf Champion or residence manager, Lyf Guards or concierge/front desk people and the Ambassador of Buzz, also known as the community manager, is always available round the clock to suggest, say, must-do activities, must-visit places and provide guests tips on how to get around the city better.
Lyf Malate Manila’s Ambassador of Buzz Lynette Bersamin shares, “My job is to go out and interact with guests, find out what their needs are and organize activities accordingly. Depending on the number of guests, I could plan weekly workshops, talks, movie nights — pretty much anything under the sun that all guests are welcome to participate in.”
I was recently invited to stay at Lyf Malate Manila. Much as I no longer fall within the millennial age range, I must say that it doesn’t take a millennial to fully appreciate how unique and chic the place is.
The first thing that greeted me upon entering Lyf Malate Manila was the stairway encased in multi-colored grid panels. Resembling the hit ’90s video game Tetris, it’s a design flourish that would instantly appeal to today’s millennials who grew up hooked on the game.
It led me directly to the establishment’s coworking and communal lounge dubbed as Connect. This space on the second level is equipped with high-speed internet, comfortable chairs and, of course, plenty of power outlets and charging docks to ensure one can work continuously and with utmost efficiency. Plastered walls in an array of colors are adorned with neon lights and graphic murals, giving Connect that young, modern and pop-art vibe and making every corner Instagramable.
On the other end of the spectrum, guests who prefer solace can indulge themselves in Lyf’s private working space aptly nicknamed Nook. Located in the loft area, the space offers users a quiet working space devoid of any distractions.
Coworking area 
Communal lounge
Wash, hang and bond
Need to do some laundry? Lyf has its own laundromat called Wash and Hang, which is located also on the second level and adjacent to the ball pit, where guests in need of a breather usually go to, but can’t leave their workstations just yet. You can also catch up on your workout schedule, thanks to Lyf’s 24-hour, fully-equipped gym called Burn. The entire public space on the second floor balances out function and fun, setting the tone for everything Lyf is all about.
Lyf also has a shared kitchen and dining area called Bond. Open for use day and night, the kitchen is fully equipped with anything you might need. Although bringing your own ingredients is still a must, cooking skills, or a lack thereof, aren’t necessary.
This communal kitchen and dining area offer guests a chance yet again to socialize and exchange culinary ideas. If you like to dine al fresco-style or let loose and share a cocktail or two, Bond has access to a lawned outdoor verandah called Unwind, which offers vistas of downtown Manila. If you’re not in the mood for cooking, you may head out and dine in several cafés and restaurants in the area to satisfy your cravings.
Whether you’re staying for a night or two, or for several months, you won’t easily tire of Lyf Malate Manila. Because of its casual, no-frills vibe, no two days are alike at this establishment, which further adds to the excitement and unpredictability of staying in a coliving setup. Simply put, it incorporates the basics of a hotel, which are clean, well-designed rooms and dependable staff (yes, including housekeeping), but isn’t hampered by the usual limitations often imposed on guests on short-term stays.
The added flexibility extends to its wide range of room types, from studios to four-bedroom suites, and of course, the benefit of a community. Now, that’s priceless!
Range of choices
No matter what your budget and needs are, Lyf Malate Manila offers a range of choices, all fully-furnished rooms equipped with standard amenities, including motion-sensor lighting, air-conditioning, smart flatscreen TV and high-speed Wi-Fi.
Its basic rooms are named One of a Kind and come with ensuite bathrooms that are perfect for individuals or couples. Side By Side, on the other hand, has two private rooms with a shared kitchenette. For those who are open to a more communal experience, they can opt for the All Together suite. It holds two to four bedrooms with a shared kitchen, living room and two bathrooms, making it an ideal space for group gatherings.
Queen-sized bed set-up inside One of a Kind suite 
The ensuite bathroom
Two single bed set-up in All Together suite 
Dining area
The coliving concept is a breath of fresh air to most of us, given that we have become used to staying in conventional hotels. But thanks to Ascott Limited’s reputable image and track record, everything Lyf Malate Manila has to offer – from its rooms, staff service, down to its safe, excellent location – is up to standards.
It’s a concept that made my stay so much more fun and memorable. Indeed, coliving isn’t just a passing trend, but a growing phenomenon and, the best part is, it’s here to stay!
Lyf Malate Manila is located at Malvar corner Vasquez Street, Malate, Manila. To book a stay at Lyf Malate Manila, visit discoverasr.com/en/lyf/philippines/lyf-malate-manila or follow @lyf.malatemanila on Facebook, @lyf.malatemanila on Instagram, and @lyfphilippines on TikTok.
