Manila Flair
Urban Oasis
2024
Introduction
Envisioned as a cultural landmark, Snøhetta's proposal for Manila Flair is an urban oasis and destination where the tropical Philippine metropolis meets the poetry of its renowned sunsets.
As a new extension to the SM Mall of Asia, Snøhetta developed a regenerative landscape for SM Prime, that celebrates the sun both as a physical phenomenon and as a metaphor for optimism, warmth and unity.
Technical details
SM Prime
Photo: Play Time
The concept draws inspiration from the optical effect of lens flare, where sunlight refracts through a lens into concentric rings—a visual language often used to evoke drama and intensity. In the same spirit, Manila Flair channels the city’s vibrant energy into a dynamic public realm where architecture and landscape converge to stage the chromatic spectacle of Manila living under the sun.
The design choreographs a sequence of immersive experiences, guiding visitors through a curated journey of light and shadow, colour and texture, culminating at the Pasay 360 waterfront. Five distinctive nodes punctuate the linear site, framing Manila’s iconic sunsets and transforming the park into a luminous beacon of beauty and calm. These spatial anchors foster shared memories, nurture social connections, and inspire a deeper sense of environmental stewardship.
Rooted in a tropical landscape, the scheme prioritises shade and addresses waterfront conditions during monsoon periods through a seasonally adaptive network of water retention pools.
Photo: Snøhetta
Photo: Snøhetta
Photo: Play Time
Photo: Play Time