Photos: James P. Ong
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Now that some heritage buildings in Escolta, and nearby Luneta Hotel, have been renovated and readied for occupancy, could Paco be far behind? One of Manila’s oldest districts, it is home to many beautiful post-war homes that still have good bones, though most need to be rescued soon. It also has a couple of new buildings, and this particular one has caught our eye.
OUR SECRET: The all-white Tamarind Tree Tower is a semi-curved structure that’s been built around an old tree on San Sepulcro Street, a few blocks from Paco Market. We wouldn’t call this street busy (it is lined with residential houses) but it is close to Quirino Avenue, which means you’re just a few minutes away from Malate, Makati, Sta Mesa and Quezon City. But what we find adorable about this seven-story building are the artworks displayed outdoors. There’s a bronze horse, a stone sculpture of what seems to be an Asian demigod at the parking lot, and a painting right under the staircase. According to the security guard we talked to, all the commercial units have been reserved but tenants have not moved in yet.
