Story :  Voralak Suwanvanichkij   
Images : courtesy of The Lakes
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At Home on the Fairway
With panoramic views of sun-dappled lakes, wooded mountains and the Gulf of Thailand, The Lakes at Phoenix offers buyers an unparalleled living experience near South Pattaya. Not only does the luxury resort style condominium offer magnificent vistas, it is also nestled among the rolling terrain of the 1,500 rai Phoenix Golf Course.

Avid golfers will no doubt appreciate the 27 hole designer course. For non golfers, there is the appeal of the expansive greenery and easy access to other sporting options such as riding and water sports, as well as the fine dining and many family friendly activities in Pattaya.

The Lakes at Phoenix is developed by Evolution Land, the property arm of Thai listed company Evolution Capital. Arthur Napolitano, Senior Vice President for Business Development elaborates on the project’s exceptional location, concept, and sales prospects.

Ideal Weekend Getaway
According to Arthur, “The Lakes is located in Bang Saray, a green area about 15 kilometres south, or a 15 minute drive, from downtown Pattaya. With strict zoning, there is no high rise here.” Unlike neighbouring Jomtien or Pattaya, Bang Saray retains its pristine natural surroundings as well as the mellow charm of its traditional fishing community.

Arthur Napolitano

The 14 rai development is embedded within the Phoenix Golf Course allowing buyers to enjoy greater privacy and convenience. “We’re inland so it’s quiet and accessible by back roads, allowing residents to avoid traffic on the main artery. We are a 90 minute drive on the expressway from Bangkok so The Lakes is an ideal getaway, a spur of the moment weekend retreat,” explains Arthur.

As such, the project has attracted Thai and foreign nationals who live in Bangkok, as well as those visiting the country for several months each year. While golfers comprise approximately one third of target buyers, Arthur explains that non golfers, especially families or year-round residents who are retired or work in the Eastern Seaboard, are also attracted by the lifestyle. “Aside from golf, the fact that The Lakes is located on the course contributes to its overall ambience,” he says.

About 35% of units have been sold. Construction begins in mid 2008, with expected completion at the end of 2009.

Living Among Nature
The Lakes offers 118 freehold units in two low rise buildings. Six types are available, including 70 square metre one-bedroom units, 120 – 150 square metre two bedroom units, 130 square metre two bedroom duplexes, 150 – 180 square metre three bedroom units and 11 prestigious 200+ square metre penthouses. The latter boast a minimum of three bedrooms as well as maid’s quarters with separate access.

Hassell, an Australian architectural and design firm with a sizable practice in Thailand, meticulously designed the “pistol grip” shaped buildings to maximize natural light and airflow, balancing environmental and aesthetic sensibilities.

Living rooms are fitted with 2.7 metre floor to ceiling insulated laminate glass that keeps units cool. Along with large wrap around balconies, this guarantees unencumbered views of the lakes, mountains, or neighbouring farmlands.

Phoenix Golf Course is an integral part of the landscaping, with no walls between the development and the fairways. “The entire course is an extension of the property, it’s your very own expansive garden,” says Arthur.

Indeed, ground floor units with seven metre wide terraces are especially well integrated with the environment. At the same time, carefully considered landscaping provides security and privacy from common areas.

Energy efficient, Daikin VRV air-conditioning systems are employed, with shared compressors placed on roofs. Balconies are thus free from compressor noise and heat.  An on site water treatment facility cleans wastewater for use in the gardens.

The décor also embraces natural elements. “The theme is inspired by tropical Asian and African safari elements. For example, we use earth tones, African masks, Ashanti textiles, and Southeast Asian paintings in our show unit.” says Arthur.

High Quality Appliances and Amenities
Intended to be a true vacation home, units are equipped for a hassle-free move. Buyers need only supply their own furniture. Bedrooms feature built in closets while kitchens are fitted with cabinets and appliances, including a refrigerator, washer and dryer. A Siemens Smart Living home automation system also ensures residents’ comfort and security.

The Phoenix Golf Course is the premier offering of The Lakes. Designed by Dennis Griffiths, the course is comprised of three nines, aptly named Ocean, Lake, and Mountain. Owners of penthouse and other larger units enjoy a lifetime membership to the course, with full use of the clubhouse.

Those who do not play golf will benefit from other recreational facilities, including a large swimming pool fringed by a manmade beach, a lap pool, tennis courts and a fitness centre. A jogging track also meanders around the periphery of the property.

Parking is hidden underground and each unit is provided with basement storage for golf clubs and other equipment. Other common area facilities include a sculptured forecourt and drop off area, sala pavilions and an area for social gatherings.

A building manager with hospitality expertise will be appointed before completion. Monthly maintenance fees will be 60 THB per square metre, and additional services such as house cleaning and rental property management will also be available.

Pattaya - Lifestyle Destination
The Lakes’ appeal extends beyond its tranquil setting. Its proximity to Pattaya ensures access to a host of active lifestyle options, including motor racing, polo, concerts, water sports and sailing. “Pattaya is not necessarily a place where one sits by the pool reading a book or indulges in a spa treatment.  People who come here prefer to be more active,” explains Arthur.

One of The Lakes’ most renowned customers is tennis player Paradon Srichaphan, who, according to Arthur, “Enjoys the convenience of nearby Pattaya as well the wide range of activities on offer from motor racing to water sports.”

Pattaya is steadily evolving into an upmarket destination and distancing itself from its previously seedy image. “More people with more money are coming,” states Arthur. “In the past three years, Pattaya and the surrounding area has become increasingly cosmopolitan, and it’s gaining momentum. We have world class schools, hospitals, dining and shopping to support an upscale family oriented lifestyle.”

Sound Investment
The Lakes is leveraging the strength of the premium high end condominium market. Thanks to a booming local economy and upmarket tourism sector, investors can expect significant capital gains and rental returns.  Arthur adds, “Luxury developments in Wong Amat and Jomtien command price of 100,000 THB per square metre, making The Lakes, which starts at 80,000 THB per square metre, a very attractive investment.”

Additionally, The Lakes possesses the unique advantage of being in a stable environment. “In addition to Bang Saray’s building restrictions, the golf course location ensures that The Lakes will have protected views forever. Golf course homes in mature Western markets typically command a 30% premium over homes outside, a value attributed to supporting facilities and services, and of course, the expansive landscape that the other developments can not provide.” concludes Arthur.

To visit the on site show suite or for more information:
Tel: +66(0)2 207 2980    E-mail: info@thelakesatphoenix.com 
www.thelakesatphoenix.com