PHINMA CAGAYAN DE ORO COLLEGE

COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND ARCHITECTURE

DEPARTMENT OF ARCHITECTURE

CASE STUDY: MIXED-USED

DEVELOPMENTS IN THE
PHILIPPINES AND
INTERNATIONAL

Submitted by:
MAECAILLAH JOISSE L. MADAYAG

Submitted to:
AR. JOEL C. ENQUITO, MEM

ARC :COMMUNITY PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT

Case Study No. 1:
BONIFACIO GLOBAL CITY (BGC), PHILIPPINES

Overview:
The Bonifacio Global City
or famously called as BGC is
a 240-hectare mixed-use
estate and central business
district located in Taguig,
Philippines. It is one of the
renowned modern
development in the
Philippines.

Brief History:
Before BGC has become of what it is now, the place has a rich
history that spans for more than a century. Its history begun in 1902,
when the US government established Fort McKinley, a military base
covering over 2,500 hectares.
It was until 1949 when the Philippine government took ownership
and later renamed as Fort Bonifacio in honor of Andres Bonifacio. Fort
Bonifacio continued to function as a military base under the Philippine
Army, housing soldier’s and their families. But, because of the rapid
urbanization the government saw a potential in re-purposing parts of
the land to promote economic growth.
In the early 1990’s, the Bases
Conversion and Development Authority
(BCDA) was created to transform
former military bases into an urban
center that could contribute to the
country’s economy. By, 1995, a portion
of Fort Bonifacio was sold to a
consortium which started the vision to
what BGC has become now.

Characteristic and Key Features:

 Zoning Plan
BGC has a clear zoning of the
spaces: Residential zones are
located on the west side near
Forbes Park and Manila Golf, a quiet
area with good views.
 Pedestrian System Plan
Sidewalks are evident throughout
BGC and pedestrian arcades are
required to developable lots to
provide shading for the users from
the harsh sunlight and rain. This
promotes safety and convenience to
the end users.
 Vehicular Access Plan
BGC cares a lot about the mobility of
its users. So, they provided bus lanes
and Personal Mobility Device (PMD)
Lanes which are intended for bikes,
e-scooters, hover boards, and the-likes. Curb cut-outs are also
spread throughout the vicinity to minimize accidents and to
promote safety and inclusivity. The location of the curb cuts are
planned meticulously －normally not located within 12 meters of an
intersection.
 Utilities
Utilities such as power, telephone, and fibre-optic cable lines are
located underground. They also have an underground drainage
detention structure that could hold up 22 million liters of water
which is why there is no flooding in the area. BGC also have a
treatment facility that manages their wastewater.
 Mixed-used Spaces
Bonifacio Global City spread
both horizontally and vertically.
They have mixed-used
buildings which accommodates
commercial, offices, and
residential. They also have
educational institutes,
hospitals, museums, sports
facilities, and cultural spaces.
The design of these mixed-used
buildings create a walkable, reachable, and efficient community for
its users.
 Public Buildings and Plazas
Landscapes, parks, and open spaces are evenly distributed. They
also have performing arts theater, amphitheatre, and central plaza
which are essential for the well-being of the users and the place as
a whole.
 Sports Facilities
BGC Greenway located along the western boundary has a 1.6km
long public space for walking and jogging, which encourages it
users to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Strategies:
Bonifacio Global City is a perfect example of a successful mixed-
used development that creates a dynamic urban environment through
the integration of residential, commercial, office, and recreational
spaces. It is one of the most famous
business and lifestyle district in the
Philippines following that it was
centered around modern living,
connectivity, and sustainability. Below
is an example of mixed-used
development inside BGC.
 One Bonifacio High Street is
a mixed-used development in
BGC that offers high-end retail
shops, restaurants, leisure, and
entertainment. The mall has
four sections: the first and
second blocks are an open-air
shopping, the third block is a
mixture of open-air and indoor
commercial buildings dubbed
as the “Bonifacio High Street
Central” that also includes
state-of-the-art cinemas, and
the fourth block named Bonifacio High Street South or simply
High Street South is a mixture of open-air and indoor
commercial-residential buildings.

By combining multiple types of developments in one area, BGC

maximizes the use of land, and the integration of mixed-use model
stimulates local economies by attracting business, services, and
employment. Moreover, the convenience the BGC offers to its users
can be observed by having living, work, and play in one area reduces
commuting which creates a healthier and vibrant community.
In conclusion, Bonifacio Global City has strategically used urban
planning, and mixed-used development to secure their success in to be
a self-sustained, walkable city.

References:
[Link]
[Link]
Case Study No. 2:
ROCKWELL CENTER,
MAKATI, PHILIPPINES

Overview:
Rockwell Center is a mixed-
use development in Poblacion,
Makati City, Metro Manila,
Philippines. It is known as a “city
within a city” as it offers
residential, commercial, office
spaces, sports, club, and a performing center in a self-contained
community. For nearly three decades, Rockwell Land has set the gold
standard in luxury living, creating premier communities with unique
residences, upscale retail and dining, and modern office spaces.

Brief History:
Rockwell Center dated its history back in 1950’s when the
Philippines began to recover from the ravages of the war which
happens to be the reason of the changing and demographic growth of
the City of Manila that led to excess consumption of energy. To meet
the demand Manila Electric Company (MERALCO) decided to build a
thermal plant and was completed by 1961.
For the next 10+ years, Rockwell Thermal Plant served its purpose
until a huge fire took place in December 1973 which washed out the
place. The power plant was left
untouched for the next 20+ years.
In 1995, the Lopezes decided to
bring new life into the area. The plan
was to redevelop the area into a
commercial and business hub. And by
the year 2000, Power Plant Mall was
opened to the public serving the
people around the area. After 14 years,
the mall expanded eastward, with
three additional floors and a residential
suite on top of the expansion part of
the mall.

Characteristics and Key Features:

 Residential Luxury
Rockwell Center is known for its luxurious residential towers, many
of which cater to high-income individuals and expatriates.
 Commercial Dynamics
At the heart of Rockwell Center is Power Plant Mall, a mid-sized
upscale shopping center that caters to premium and boutique
 shoppers. It features: high-end fashion
brands, specialty dining options, luxury
cinemas, and gourmet supermarkets.
The mall is a major draw for both
residents and visitors, making Rockwell
a lifestyle destination.
 Office Spaces
Rockwell also includes Class A office
spaces that cater to top-tier
businesses, especially those in law,
finance, and creative industries. Recent
expansions like Rockwell Business
Center – Sheridan and Ortigas show the
brand’s broader commercial strategy.
 Urban Green Spaces
Thoughtfully integrated parks and
landscaped areas add to the community’s livability and aesthetic
appeal.
 Cultural and Lifestyle Venues
Facilities such as performing arts theaters and educational
institutions contribute to the cultural vibrancy of the area. This
cultural dimension adds depth to its luxury branding.
 Pedestrian-Friendly and Safe Urban Design
One of Rockwell Center’s standout features is its pedestrian-
focused design. The area has a well-maintained sidewalks and
landscaped walkways, underground parking that minimizes street-
level traffic, security presence
and limited public access
(creating a semi-private
environment). These features
makes it a safe, walkable
district within the busy Makati
CBD.

Strategies:
Rockwell Center is a mixed-
use, self-contained community in
Makati City, Philippines, and is a
prime example of a high-end,
mixed-use development, blending residential, commercial, and leisure
spaces. This success was reached because of the strategies that made
it possible.
 Strategic Location Selection: One of the primary strategies
for Rockwell was choosing a location within Makati’s bustling
central business district (CBD). In addition, it also ensured that
 Rockwell Center has strong transportation link to major roads,
and public transport hubs.
 High-End Brand
Identity: From its
architecture to the quality
of materials used, the
development prioritized
high standards. This
exclusivity was
marketed as a key selling
point, attracting buyers
and renters willing to pay
a premium for luxury living
and working spaces.
 Mixed-Use
Development: The
development was planned to seamlessly integrate residential,
commercial, office, retail, and leisure spaces. This was done
with the aim of providing a holistic lifestyle for its residents
while offering opportunities for businesses and recreational
activities all within a well-planned space.

References:
[Link]
[Link]
[Link]
Case Study No. 3:
SANTANA ROW, SAN JOSE, USA

Overview:
Santana Row is a
residential, shopping, dining,
and entertainment district
built around a main street in
San Jose, California, the heart
of Silicon Valley. Santana
Row comprises about
680,000 square feet (63,172
square meters) of retail
space and restaurants, 1,201
dwelling units, two hotels,
and seven parks covering an 18-block area.

Brief History:
The site where Santana Row is erected now was previously a Town
and Country Village shopping center. The construction began in
2000’s, but soon burned down in August 2002. Though in November of
the same year Santana Row opened its doors to the public.
The development and expansion of Santana Row continued as the
year passed by, many retail store opened, residential condos were
sold, and offices were occupied.
October of 2011, a new rental
community was built paving the
way for more amenities like
restaurants, fitness center, parks,
plazas, and more residential
condominiums.
Santana Row continued to
expand in 2016 and a population
of 24,196 live within a one-mile
radius of Santana Row.

Characteristics and Key Features:

 Walkable Urban Environment
One of the standout features of Santana Row is its walkability.
Santana Row is designed for pedestrians to comfortably move
between residences, shops, offices, and public spaces. This
encourages a pedestrian-friendly environment, reducing reliance on
cars and promoting a more sustainable lifestyle.

 Luxury Apartments and Condominiums

 Santana Row features a wide variety of luxury apartments and
high-end condominiums, designed with modern interiors and top-
tier amenities. The residential units are aimed at affluent
professionals, tech workers, and families looking for upscale urban
living.
 Private and Secure Living
The residential component also focuses on security and privacy,
with gated communities, controlled access, and 24/7 surveillance to
provide peace of mind for residents.
 High-End Retail and Shopping
Santana Row hosts a selection of
high-end retail outlets, including
designer brands which attract
shoppers from both within the
region and beyond. It also features
boutiques offering unique, boutique
shopping experiences, catering to a
variety of tastes and interests.
 Architectural Style and Design
The architecture is the place is heavily influenced by Mediterranean
and California-style designs. The buildings feature terracotta roofs,
stucco facades, arched doorways, and open courtyards, creating a
charming, village-like atmosphere.
 Private Spaces with Public Integration
While Santana Row features private
residential units and offices, it also
has plenty of public spaces—
streetscapes, plazas, and parks—
that encourage interaction between
residents, shoppers, and visitors.
This combination of private and
public spaces helps create a
dynamic, engaging environment
where people can gather and enjoy
the surroundings.

Strategies:
Santana Row is a prime example of thoughtful and strategic urban
planning that seamlessly integrates residential, commercial, and social
spaces while fostering a strong sense of community and promoting a
high quality of life. The development's success is attributed to a variety
of key planning strategies that focus on walkability, mixed-use
functionality, and creating a unique, dynamic environment. Below are
the strategies that guided the planning of Santana Row:
 Mixed-Use Urban Development: Santana Row’s planning
emphasizes a mixed-use approach, integrating residential,
 retail, office, and entertainment spaces within the same
development. By locating luxury apartments, office spaces, and
high-end retail shops in close proximity, Santana Row promotes
a sense of community and walkability.
 Strategic Location: The proximity of Silicon Valley from
Santana Row has been a strategic advantage, attracting tech
professionals and residents who want to live in proximity to
their workplaces. The development is also conveniently located
near major highways, making
it accessible from other parts
of the region.
 Mixed-Density Housing:
Santana Row includes a mix
of residential types, from
luxury apartments and
townhouses to higher-density
condominiums. This creates
a range of living options,
catering to young professionals, families, and elderly, all within
the same community.
 Gradual Expansion: The Santana Row project was developed
in phases, starting with the initial retail and office components,
followed by the addition of residential spaces. This phased
approach allowed for adjustments and refinements in response
to market demands and community needs.

References:
[Link]
[Link]
[Link]