Makati: Redefining urban living beyond business

You’d recognize Makati even before stepping foot in the city. Its iconic skyline—the towering symbols of the country’s financial capital—immediately stands out.

But beyond the skyscrapers and bustling streets, Makati’s heart beats with the diverse communities, industries, and individuals that define it. Over the decades, Makati has evolved from a quiet town known mainly for housing the country’s first airport to a thriving center of commerce, culture, arts, and dining. Though long perceived as a financial hub, Makati’s city government reveals that its largest land use is still residential—indicative of a thriving community where people not only work but live and play.

Makati Central Business District stands as one of Ayala Land’s flagship developments, fostering the growth of commerce, culture and innovation.

It’s no surprise that many choose to make Makati their home. Its vibrant character continues to evolve, attracting not only residents but a diverse range of visitors—whether for work, leisure, or exploration. From top-tier businesses to curated dining spots and cultural hubs, Makati has something for everyone.

Infrastructure and Architecture

Makati’s journey toward becoming a leading metropolis began in the 1960s with the creation of Ayala Avenue. Over the years, this iconic thoroughfare has been framed by new developments, cementing Makati as the country’s Central Business District (CBD). One of the most recent additions is the Ayala Triangle Gardens Tower 2, a 40-story building housing premium offices, co-working spaces, and event venues. This LEED-certified tower reaffirms Ayala Land and Makati’s commitment to sustainability and world-class development.

Nearby, the newly developed Shops at Ayala Triangle add vibrancy to the area, offering a variety of dining options for both residents and visitors. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, the blend of global and local food choices creates an inviting space for exploration, shopping, and relaxation.

The introduction of the One Ayala Intermodal Hub—a terminal for buses, UV Express vans, and other public transport—is another step toward improving accessibility. Integrated with the Ayala MRT station, the hub improves the commuter experience.

One Ayala, introduces a revolutionary retail concept within a world-class transit intermodal hub located at the gateway of Makati City.

But it doesn’t stop there—One Ayala features a lifestyle mall, dining spaces, and retail shops that create a seamless blend of convenience and entertainment, making it an attractive destination for anyone visiting the city.

A Growing Center for Culture and Arts

Makati City also boasts one of the largest performing arts venues in the metro. The Samsung Performing Arts Theater, launched in 2022, is a state-of-the-art space in Circuit Makati that houses a 1,500-seater theater, as well as rehearsal and events spaces.

Conveniently connected to Ayala Malls Circuit Makati, it provides easy access for both residents and visitors to enjoy its cultural offerings. Circuit Makati itself is a thriving destination where art, culture, and recreation meet. For tourists and locals alike, Circuit Makati offers a compelling array of experiences, blending world-class performances with exciting retail and dining destinations.

Inclusive Living Spaces

Ayala Land continues to redefine living in Makati through developments like The CityFlats—a series of co-living spaces designed to foster inclusive living. The CityFlats offers flexibility and modern comfort with three operational branches located across different parts of Makati, catering to a diverse set of residents.

The CityFlats, Ayala Land’s first co-living development in Makati, spearheaded an Artist Residency Program in its Circuit Makati branch.

For those who work in the city, The CityFlats Amorsolo provides unparalleled convenience, located within the CBD. It
offers easy access to offices, dining spots, and entertainment hubs, making it ideal for professionals seeking to simplify their daily commute. On the quieter side of Makati, The CityFlats Sacred Heart caters to those who prefer a more relaxed, residential environment while still being connected to the city’s dynamic rhythm. Finally, The CityFlats Circuit Makati caters to the city’s vibrant arts and culture scene, offering a residence that’s close to performance venues, galleries, and creative spaces. This branch also hosts an artist-in-residence program, creating a unique community for artists and creatives.

These developments reflect Makati’s commitment to offering diverse living options that appeal to a wide range of residents—young professionals, families, and creatives alike.

Community Engagement

Makati’s transformation isn’t just about infrastructure—it’s about building a community. Initiatives like Car-Free Sundays, where Ayala Avenue is closed off to vehicles, have transformed the city into a pedestrian-friendly space where people can come together. From joggers and cyclists to families enjoying a leisurely stroll, Car-Free Sundays have drawn thousands of residents and visitors alike, creating a sense of community while promoting active, sustainable lifestyles.

Car-Free Sundays at Ayala Avenue, first-of-its-kind initiative in PH, led by Makati CBD and Ayala Land, has transformed one of the nation’s busiest roads into an active and vibrant community hub

This initiative has become so popular that it has inspired similar efforts in other cities, showcasing Makati’s role as a trendsetter in urban living and mobility.

Future Developments

As Makati grows, so too does its vision for the future. Ayala Land’s redevelopment plans for Greenbelt 1 and Glorietta are set to usher in fresh, modern spaces that integrate nature with design. The new Greenbelt 1, set for completion in 2028, will feature a wooden façade punctuated by lush greenery. It will also be equipped with sustainable technologies, running on 100% renewable energy, employing skylights, rainwater collection systems, and a district cooling system for eco-friendly operations.

Artist’s perspective of the exterior of Greenbelt 1 (top) and Glorietta 4, two of the flagship malls of Ayala Land located in Makati. These malls are undergoing
reinvention to cater to the evolving demands of the market.

Meanwhile, the redevelopment of Glorietta—scheduled for completion in 2026—will offer brighter, more open spaces, alongside an enhanced layout for easier navigation. This transformation is geared toward making these iconic malls not just commercial hubs but vibrant, communal third spaces for residents, workers, and visitors to enjoy.

Over at Dela Rosa 2 CarPark, Ayala Land is turning a former parking facility into a mixed-use block, blending living spaces, workspaces, and open parks. This redevelopment is aimed at enhancing pedestrian experiences, providing additional areas for the community to gather, and creating a seamless space where work, leisure, and relaxation coexist.

Ayala Land is currently redeveloping the Dela Rosa 2 Carpark, transforming it into a vibrant multi-use development that will feature a park with lush green space.

Another highly anticipated development is the return of the beloved Mandarin Oriental hotel to Makati. Set to open in Ayala Triangle Gardens, the new Mandarin Oriental is poised to elevate the city’s status as a premier destination for both business and leisure travelers. With its rich legacy and brand of luxury, the reopening of Mandarin Oriental is expected to attract domestic and international tourists, further cementing Makati as a world-class destination.

A Continuously Evovling CBD

Makati has long been the country’s premier business hub, but its transformation is reshaping it into a vibrant community where business, culture, and sustainability intersect. The CBD is no longer just a place to work—it’s becoming a destination for creativity, connection, and urban living, setting new standards for inclusive and sustainable development.

Ayala Land’s forward-thinking approach continues to redefine Makati, blending world-class infrastructure with community-centered projects. As the CBD evolves, it strengthens its role as not only the nation’s leading business district but also a dynamic, thriving city that drives progress and enriches lives.

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This article is brought to you by Ayala Land.