Our Lady of Lourdes Chapel, a serene sanctuary nestled in the heart of Filinvest City, Alabang, Muntinlupa City, has garnered recognition at the esteemed Asia Pacific Property Awards for its spiritual significance and architectural excellence.
Perched atop a hill and surrounded by the verdant River Park of Filinvest City, the chapel’s design is inspired by an inverted white lily, symbolizing calmness and purity reminiscent of Mother Mary. Its striking structure, visible from afar, features curves that seem to reach heavenward, creating an inviting atmosphere for worship and prayer.
The chapel recently received a prestigious 5-star rating in the Public Service Architecture category at the 2024 Asia Pacific Property Awards. This accolade not only highlights its national significance but also propels it to the final round of the Asia Pacific competition.
The International Property Awards celebrate excellence in the global real estate industry, recognizing achievements across various sectors including architecture, development, interior design, and marketing. Winners are selected through a rigorous judging process by a panel of experts who evaluate design brief, location, architecture, sustainability, and innovation.
Receiving this award underscores the exceptional quality, innovation, and professionalism within the real estate field, demonstrating a commitment to creating spaces that embrace architectural brilliance while serving community needs.
Enduring legacy
The Our Lady of Lourdes Chapel is the vision of the late Chairman Emeritus Andrew Gotianun Sr. of the Gotianun Family. As a heartfelt tribute, Mr. Gotianun initiated a closed design competition to create a central place of worship in Filinvest City, the flagship development of Filinvest. Although he passed away in 2016 before the competition concluded, his family continued the project, reviewing and approving designs from LAUD of Singapore, NAP Architects of Japan, and Kaza Architects of the Philippines.
NAP Architects, led by Tokyo-based architect Hiroshi Nakamura, won the competition, making the chapel Nakamura’s first completed project in the Philippines. His notable works include sacred spaces in Japan such as the Sayama Forest Chapel and Ueno Toshogu Shrine Meditation Pavilion.
“The dream for Filinvest City has always been to build an environment that inspires and enables possibilities,” said Francis Gotianun, Director of Filinvest Development Corporation. “We wanted to welcome the chapel to Filinvest grounds so the community may have another space where they can feel safe, protected, and at peace.”
Opened in October 2021, the chapel’s success at the International Property Awards not only highlights its architectural brilliance but also underscores Filinvest City’s commitment to fostering vibrant communities enriched by cultural and spiritual landmarks.
Landscape’s centerpiece
By embracing the chapel as a centerpiece of its landscape, Filinvest City reaffirms its dedication to developing holistic urban spaces. This environment allows residents and visitors to find solace, inspiration, and a sense of belonging. The chapel enhances the city’s “live, work, play” approach, serving as both a hub for convergence and a place of worship. It promotes work-life balance and community cohesion through regular masses and other religious activities.
Visitors can experience the chapel’s serene atmosphere daily from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM, with masses held every Saturday at 5:00 PM and Sundays at 8:30 AM, 10:00 AM, and 3:30 PM.
Award-winning properties
Filinvest City’s recognition extends beyond the chapel. Parkway Corporate Center was awarded the Philippines Award Winner for Sustainable Commercial Development, featuring energy-efficient lighting, natural ventilation, green spaces, and water-saving fixtures, solidifying its LEED certification.
Filigree’s 1001 Parkway Residences also received a prestigious 5-star rating for High Rise Residential Architecture, exemplifying modern living that seamlessly integrates nature with innovative design.
The inclusion of Our Lady of Lourdes Chapel in Filinvest City symbolizes more than expansion; it represents the enduring legacy of the development. Amidst sleek lines and innovation of award-winning properties, a sanctuary of peace has been established, reflecting Filinvest City’s vision of a thriving commercial hub that values community and spiritual well-being. The chapel stands as a testament to Filinvest’s achievements and its commitment to creating a holistic environment that meets the diverse needs of its residents and visitors.
