Would you like to go on a cruise this Christmas?
In Makati City, a relatively new hotel is gaining popularity for being arguably the first in the country to use the same modular technology being used in luxury liners, so guests could experience a cruise ship-like comfort even on land.
Designed by renowned Filipino architect Gil Coscolluela, Green Sun Hotel in Chino Roces Avenue, Makati City advocates sustainabilty as it stands on a repurposed building that combines modern and minimalist elements with the industrial look of its former glory as a car shop. Today, it has been envisioned to promote everything beautiful about the Philippines and its people by serving as a home for young local artists.
Besides Coscolluela and his architectural firm, WV Coscolluela & Associates, which are also behind the designs of world-class malls SM Aura Premier and SM Seaside City Cebu, Green Sun is home to passionate professionals from multi-disciplinary backgrounds.
Local artist Jinggoy Buensuceso's art installations of a golden dragon, a symbol of strength and rebirth, were used to accentuate and protect Green Sun's first pillar. The hotel rooms, meanwhile, feature unique artwork by rising digital media artist Maxeene Remulla.
Built in the 1970s, Green Sun is a subsidiary of Solid Group Inc. and was formerly Delta Motors Inc., Philippine distributor of global car brand Toyota. It takes its name and mission from a painting made by an artist with a Chinese blood. The painting of a green-colored sun was given to SGI founders Joseph and Elena Lim on the occasion of the structure's 50th anniversary.
The dedication on the artwork reads, "Though you are 50, you will continue to do new things that is everything beautiful about your country."
In 2014, the building was renovated to include a hotel, a dining joint called SOMA Bistro, events venues, and office spaces.
To reach Green Sun, from Metro Manila's international and local airport, take a taxi or drive towards Andrews Avenue and continue to Sales Road. At the roundabout, take the second exit going to Lawton Avenue, then turn left to Chino Roces Extension and stay on the left lane until you arrive at Chino Roces Avenue. Go straight until you see Green Sun on your right.
Via public transport, get off at the Magallanes station of the Metro Rail Transit or take a bus and walk towards Alphaland Southgate Mall on the corner of Epifaño delos Santos Avenue (Edsa) and Chino Roces Avenue. Take either a 20-minute walk or ride a jeepney to Green Sun until you see it on your left.
Today, Green Sun continues its commitment to deliver affordable luxury through innovation, quality services, sustainable practices, and artistic expressions. As artist Ed Castrillo puts it, "Green Sun is the earth that nourishes the seed of life for everything beautiful."