Four ways Makati is transforming its central business district into a more livable, people-first city
Makati has always been shaped by both memory and momentum. Its streets carry decades of routines—careers built over time, familiar lunch spots, and neighborhoods that have quietly supported everyday life behind the glass towers. For many, Makati is not just where work happens, but where life has long unfolded.
Today, as the city enters a new phase of renewal, Makati is redefining what a central business district can be. The focus has shifted from expansion to refinement—from speed to sustainability, from density to livability. At the center of this shift is Dela Rosa Gardens, Ayala Land’s newest mixed-use development, introduced as part of Makati’s broader urban reinvention and positioned as a key node in the CBD’s evolving blueprint.
Located along Dela Rosa Street in Legazpi Village, the 1.3-hectare development rises within Makati’s historic core—an area long defined by the natural overlap of offices, residences, parks, and institutions. More than a single address, Dela Rosa Gardens reflects how Makati is steadily reshaping its business district to function better for everyday life.
1. Old streets, green energy
Makati’s strength lies in its ability to evolve without losing its sense of place. Neighborhoods such as Legazpi and Salcedo villages remain comfortingly familiar, shaped by tree-lined streets, cafés, and long-standing institutions that have anchored daily life in the CBD.
Dela Rosa Gardens builds on this foundation by introducing new landscaped open spaces within a dense urban setting—part of a broader green ecosystem taking shape across Makati’s central business district. These green pockets link streets, offices, residences, and nearby parks, bringing balance back to the business district and creating room to pause, reflect, and move at a more human pace.
In doing so, the development reimagines familiar streets for a more contemporary, nature-integrated urban experience—one that supports both daily life and productivity.
2. A residential haven
One of the clearest signals of Makati’s evolution is the renewed emphasis on residential living within the CBD, a serene counterpoint to the city’s energy and integrated into the project’s green, walkable master plan.
The development sits within one of Makati’s most established residential districts. Within Dela Rosa Gardens itself is Laurean Residences, a premium residential community designed for those seeking seamless movement between home and work through direct access to the district’s elevated walkways. Nearby, Park Villas offers rare vertical living within the CBD, while Park Central Towers stands as a landmark of architectural elegance and vertical luxury. Surrounding developments—including Garden Towers, Park Terraces, One and Two Roxas Triangle, The Residences at Greenbelt, and One Salcedo Place—complete a mature residential ecosystem where living, working, and leisure naturally intersect.
3. Connectivity without congestion
Walkability has become central to Makati’s renewed planning strategy, and Dela Rosa Gardens reflects this shift. Pedestrian-friendly pathways and reduced car dependence support smoother daily movement, allowing people to navigate the CBD more comfortably.
With key destinations and transport connections within easy reach, the development reinforces Makati’s direction toward a more connected, transit-oriented district—where mobility feels intuitive rather than congested.
4. Quality of life as urban infrastructure
One of the most notable changes in Makati’s evolution is how quality of life is now treated as essential urban infrastructure. Public spaces are increasingly activated for everyday use, encouraging people to spend time in the city beyond work hours.
From art-led programs to seasonal gatherings, these shared experiences help reframe the CBD as a place for culture, community, and daily enjoyment—adding balance to a high-density urban environment.
Why it matters now
As cities adjust to new work patterns and lifestyle priorities, developments like Dela Rosa Gardens reflect a broader shift in how central business districts are designed. Walkability, access to nature, and everyday livability are no longer add-ons—they are shaping how cities remain relevant and resilient. In Makati, this shift is already taking form on the ground.
Makati, reimagined
Backed by Ayala Land’s long legacy of shaping integrated urban estates, Dela Rosa Gardens reinforces Makati’s position as both the country’s financial core and a cultural anchor—now recalibrated for a future that places people, experience, and sustainability at the forefront.
The development reflects what Makati has learned over time: that successful cities are not defined solely by productivity, but by how they support everyday life. That green spaces—and the ecosystems they create—matter as much as office towers. And that even in the busiest districts, there must always be room to slow down.
As Makati continues its urban reinvention, Dela Rosa Gardens stands as a clear signal of where the city is headed—connected, future-ready, and designed with people in mind.
Dela Rosa Gardens — At a Glance
A contemporary urban sanctuary that brings work, home, and everyday life closer together in the heart of Makati.
Location: Dela Rosa Street, Legazpi Village, Makati CBD
Developer: Ayala Land
Site Area: 1.3 hectares
Key Components:
• Landmark BPI Tower
• Curated retail spaces
• Landscaped, walkable open areas
Residential Context:
Located within Makati’s most established premium residential district, alongside Laurean Residences, Park Villas, Park Central Towers, Garden Towers, Park Terraces, One and Two Roxas Triangle, The Residences at Greenbelt, and One Salcedo Place.
Connectivity & Transport:
Enhanced pedestrian access within Makati CBD
Near major retail, institutional, and transport hubs
Linked to MRT, P2P, and city transport services via One Ayala
Lifestyle & Community:
Close to Circuit Makati and the Samsung Performing Arts Theater
Part of a CBD known for year-round cultural events, art programs, and community activities
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