By JOSE PAOLO S. DELA CRUZ
From the downsized physical operations of many businesses, to the rise of upstart businessmen and women engaging in their own ventures from home — there are many reasons to think that Residential-Office (RESO) developments could very well emerge as the real estate trend of the future.
In a panel discussion held by SM Development Corp. (SMDC) to launch ICE Tower RESO, the company said that its latest development — an 844-unit project built on a 3,859 sq.m. property within the Mall of Asia Complex — is a response to “the demand for a lifestyle that allows residents to live, work and succeed.”
At a time when many started their own businesses in their condo units or homes, RESOs like ICE Tower offer a duality that allows entrepreneurs to bring their game to the next level. In RESOs, not only will they have a premium residence in the heart of the city, they will also have the privilege of owning a business address that gives a sense of formality to their venture.
The concept promotes an entrepreneurial lifestyle with “spaces for success” that allow for a seamless shift between home life and professional duty, as it offers the luxury and comforts of a premium condominium development, while providing facilities expected of a professional office address.
Along with its fiber optic network and 24-hour power backup, which promise optimum connectivity and uninterrupted operations, the development is also fully integrated into the MOA complex.
‘Flexible, practical’
For Winston Llamas, president of Wilbros Live, the flexibility of RESOs elevate the “live at work” concept, which is starting to gain popularity these days. “Having an A-list address matters,” said the man known for bringing in world-class musical acts to the Philippines. “There, you will have everything you need for a business, including office spaces and meeting rooms on demand.”
Llamas also believes that it’s very practical to invest in a RESO, if one could afford to, instead of paying for rent in commercial spaces. He also adds that aside from having the best of both worlds, one can simply sell their unit if he or she wants to liquidate — something that tenants simply cannot do with the office spaces they’re renting, no matter how fancy they may be.
Roy Golez Jr. of Leechiu Property Consultants, Inc. agrees. “Your money, when invested in real estate will maintain its value, especially in areas like MOA,” he added.
ICE Tower also boasts of other recreational facilities such as the resort-styled Central Pool and the Sky Lounge at the roof deck, which offers a panoramic view of the Manila Bay and MOA Complex.
For beauty entrepreneur Rhoda Campos-Aldanese, access to open spaces that come with well-developed RESOs also bears value. “As an entrepreneur, you have to keep your mind sharp and your body healthy. Catching the sun, engaging in outdoor activities, these are very important,” she shared in the discussions.
Singer-turned-entrepreneur Kris Lawrence, who also performs these days on online platforms like Kumu, further added that RESOs offer flexibility for performers like him who can shoot content and build home studios in their units, and conduct meetings in shared office spaces for their other requirements.
Amenities for a successful, well-balanced lifestyle
ICE Tower RESO also features business offerings almost tantamount to a Grade-A office building. These include easy access to functional spaces, office machines and executive services at the Business Hub, which will help them increase efficiency while lowering monthly expenses.
Fully equipped meeting rooms and a boardroom can also be used as training rooms, virtual rooms and ideation rooms. A spacious function hall can also host a company event or a product launch, while comfortable and professional work spaces have also been integrated into the layout.
ICE Tower RESO also recognizes the value of networking for entrepreneurs. There, one can collaborate with like-minded business people or entertain clients in the upscale ambiance of the Social Hub.
SMDC ICE TOWER is currently in the pre-selling phase and has a target completion date of end-2024.
To know more about the property, click here.
