Because the old baywalk redevelopment brought back Filipinos to a public space, I learned to appreciate it. It is sad that it is gone. The recent development at the baywalk prompted me to work on some ideas.
Roxas Boulevard shall retain its trademark image: the flank of coconut trees. The lollipop lights stay as memory of Atienza’s efforts. At the baywalk, we jog, skate, or walk along the promenade while we either watch the sunset or take the plunge into the the landscape / waterscape? of Manila Pool City. We swim at the pools with the illusion of swimming in the waters of Manila Bay. We create a destination that is like no other in the city. This will bring back Manila city-zens to the baywalk promenade without having to rely on commercial establishments.
Pool with a Boardwalk
Axes and Archipoolago
Axes
The image does not show real coordinates, but lines (boardwalks) should point the direction to the country’s best beaches and other resort destinations. Paving design can integrate information about these resorts.
ArchiPOOLago
Proposal for an archipelago of pools and floating open spaces, accessible via floating raft or a small boat. The design is a rhetoric of how the country’s archipelagic setup created a divide in transportation and communication. This will be experienced in the inaccessibility of other pools and open spaces of Archipoolago. Some pools can be operated by the hotels along Roxas Boulevard.
The next area to be redeveloped is the service road of Roxas Boulevard. Historically, this was a linear park that connected Rizal Park and another huge park where Central Bank and Harrison Plaza now stand. Since the other side has the Pool/s as its magnet for people. Manila Mayor Lim might find legitimacy in putting the commercial structures along the service-road. This former linear park can be made over and accommodate island-type kiosks of retail and F&B’s (food and beverages). This way, Ground floor spaces of buildings along Roxas Boulevard, especially the Art Deco ones are integrated in the commercial development of the area. Outdoor seating for dining and unwinding will bring Roxas Boulevard back to life while the famed Manila Sunset remains viewable.
Points:
Manila Bay Pool City - A New Landmark and Destination for Manila
Manila Bay - Tourist Visits will increase
Manila Sunset - Tourist Visits will increase
Roxas Boulevard Service-Road - Redeveloped for Commercial Purposes
Roxas Boulevard property - More Commercially Viable
Roxas Boulevard Hotels - More bookings
