Chic,
Cool, Comfortable & Colorful
(The 4 C’s of Astoria Boracay)
Written by John Tanjangco
Nestled
in the heart of one the world’s most famous beaches, Astoria Boracay is the
island’s newest iconic landmark. Its architecture is a unique fusion of modern,
tropical and contemporary styles that was conceptually and architecturally
designed to have that global appeal for all to appreciate.
Then
transformation from what was once Boracay Gold Crowne Resort, to the newly
opened Astoria Boracay was executed by Gallego Architects, selected
specifically for their 20 year experience in designing seaside homes, villas
and resorts in the Philippines and around Asia. And what an amazing
transformation this is. Principal architect Eduardo Gallego shares his love for
architecture with his passion for the sea, the major influence in his designs
which uses natural elements in planning and constructing seaside structures.
The
architectural style of Astoria Boracay captures the eye of anyone passing by
its front entrance on Station 1. They stop, pause and/or pose and take photos
of what is an irresistible photo-op or Facebook profile picture moment and
leaves them happy and wanting to come and stay for their next trip. All because
of the intriguing architecture one simply called “sexy”
The
3,000 sq. meter beach front resort and its 39 spacious and well appointed
suites are all about geometric shapes with repetitive elements that seem to
mimic the undulating waves.
Glass
railings all throughout allow a seamless integration of the exterior and the
interior spaces. The white building color allows the building to reflect the
changes in the color of the sunlight throughout the day.
The
lobby pavilion houses the WHITE Café and bar restaurant, with custom designed
furniture that speak of the designers’ creativity and of Filipino
craftsmanship. Overhead, 244 pieces of stylized angel fish uniquely appear to
be swimming effortlessly into a lighted “wave” wall. On the second level is the
Chill Bar where guests can lounge around with their favorite drink while
watching Boracay’s famous sunset. Two function rooms are found behind the area
that offers either a commanding view of the China Sea, or a view of the pool
and the lush gardens. The Tropical Free-Style Cuisine and Fresh Catch of The
Day buffet offerings by the beachfront is a hit with any of the local or
foreign guests.
At
the center of the resort is a 20 meter lap pool, with a side deck where one can
lay on half submerged sun loungers. At one end of the pool is a children’s pool
with an origami inspired slide providing hours of fun for the young travelers.
The pool area is surrounded by a teak wood deck with creatively shaped crescent
loungers that seem to float in the mid-air. At the other end of the pool is
what appears to be a modern sculpture – the pool shower! This wonderfully
functioning piece of art has become another one of the most photographed items
at the resort.
Surrounding
the pool are 3 building clusters with 39 beautiful, well appointed,
color-themed suites all designed by famous interior designers Ivy and Cynthia
Almario: all NON-SMOKING enclaves have sound and UV-insulated PVC doors to
ensure a goodnight’s sleep. Astoria Boracay suites also feature individual
climate control air conditioning, 32” LCD television with cable programming,
safety deposit box, telephone with voice mail feature, personal refrigerator,
complete bath amenities, complimentary coffee and tea making facilities,
complimentary internet access and a balcony and/or terrace. Astoria Boracay is
surrounded by lush tropical gardens containing plants that are rare to the
island providing an unequaled garden experience for visitors and locals alike.
All
suites have colorful graphics applied on walls and on the bathroom glazing,
offering a zesty, fresh and vibrant tableau in three colors – aqua’s and teals,
happy greens and sophisticated grays. Now that’s what we call real resort eye
candy! The headboard with its woven detailing, is finished in an off-white
color, as are most of the other furniture, to provide a neutral counter point
to the vibrant graphics.
Like
Boracay’s sunset, Astoria Boracay never fails to fascinate its guests and
passersby with its ever changing ambience created through its wonderful use of
light, form and space. The property is a design connoisseur’s and vacationer’s
dream resort that looks crisp, fresh and the perfect compliment to the
turquoise, white powder sand shoreline of Boracay Island.
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Call
us (02) 910.0557, (02) 687.1111 loc. 8024
