The Upper East House

A Visit to The Upper East House: Unraveling the Secrets of Bacolod City’s Architectural Marvel

 As the sun bathed the streets of Bacolod City in golden hues, I stood in front of The Upper East House. This modern marvel paid homage to the historic ‘White Mansion’ of the former Bacolod-Murcia Milling Company complex. This was no ordinary visit; for the first time, a select group of media personalities, bloggers, and my esteemed colleagues from the University of St. La Salle Bacolod, Kathlyn True, Kevin Lopez, and Thee Gee, were granted access to unravel the secrets of this remarkable township information center.

Captivating Beginnings: Immersed in Elegance and Melodies at The Upper East House 

The excitement buzzed in the air as we gathered at the entrance of The Upper East House, our cameras poised to capture every exquisite detail. The choral voices of the University of St. La Salle, led by their talented conductor, set the mood with melodious harmonies that echoed through the corridors of this architectural masterpiece.

From left to right,  Kara Daniela Villa Rosa, Miss Bacolod-Universe 2022, radiating grace and elegance. Next to her is Ms. Jogie Viceo, the Township Director of Megaworld Visayas, leading the development of this extraordinary project. Architect Hazel Ortañez, the Head for Special Projects – Interior Design, showcases her creative vision and expertise in every aspect of the Upper East House. And finally, Mr. Harold Geronimo, the Vice President for PR and Communication; and Mr. Cid Santillan , PR Director also doubling as the master of ceremonies for that event.”

An Unfolding Story: Bridging the Past and the Present

Mr. Harold Geronimo, the Vice President for PR and Communications of Megaworld, took center stage and initiated the unfolding story of this magnificent building. He painted a vivid picture of its significance, detailing how The Upper East House symbolized a bridge between the past and the present, a testament to the rich heritage of Negros Occidental.

“In one of the elegant negotiation rooms of the Upper East House, Ms. Kathlyn Tim and I engage in a delightful chitchat. The room exudes a sophisticated ambiance, with its tasteful decor and comfortable furnishings, providing the perfect setting for a productive conversation. As we immerse ourselves in dialogue, the house’s rich heritage and contemporary design elements serve as a backdrop, inspiring us to appreciate both the past and the present.”

Exploring the Upper East House: A Journey Through Time

Stepping through the doors, we were greeted by a spacious veranda and an outdoor lounge adorned with a gentle water cascade. The predominant white facade of The Upper East House exuded elegance, drawing us further into its embrace. The staircase beckoned us to explore the upper ground floor, where the reception area, lounge, negotiation space, and gallery awaited. Here, we would find a treasure trove of photographs and memorabilia chronicling the storied history of the Bacolod-Murcia Milling Company.

A Fusion of Old and New: Design and Aesthetics

As we meandered through the interiors of The Upper East House, the warm color palette of brown, white, and beige enveloped us, evoking a sense of nostalgia. Decorative wooden panels adorned the walls, while calados and cartouches suspended from the ceiling added a touch of grandeur and helped circulate the air. Solihiya, woven rattan strands, adorned the reception walls and partitions, while patterned wooden planks, tiles, and stones graced the space, emanating a retro charm that transported us back in time.

The Upper East House: Preserving Heritage| Furniture and Artifacts

The furniture within The Upper East House mirrored the elegance of its predecessor. Chairs and tables, designed in the style of the old house, featured intricate solihiya weaving, facilitating proper airflow. The wood stain colors varied from light to dark tones, reminiscent of the furniture pieces of yore. And there, suspended majestically, hung a grand chandelier—a modern interpretation of the original dining chandelier that once illuminated the White Mansion. Jars, reminiscent of the banga or tapayan used for water and food storage in bygone eras, were proudly displayed atop wooden pedestals, serving as a reminder of the rich heritage that thrived within these walls.

These prestigious honors highlight the exceptional vision, design, and execution that have made the Upper East a standout development in Bacolod City.

A Vision for the Township: Integration and Recognition

The Upper East House stood not in isolation but as part of a larger vision for the township. Adjacent to the refurbished BMMC train, which now housed the “World’s First-Ever McDonald’s Dessert Station on a Train,” it formed an integral part of this award-winning development. The Upper East was recently recognized as the “Real Estate Project of the Year in the Philippines” at the World Business Outlook Awards 2023. It received a Gold Award for its Master Plan Category from the 2022 Property and Real Estate Excellence Awards by FIABCI Philippines.

“Sir Kevin Lopez strikes an elegant pose in the main Sala of the Upper East House, showcasing the timeless beauty and grandeur of this remarkable architectural masterpiece.”

Looking Ahead: A Vibrant Hub for Living, Working, and Celebrating Heritage at The Upper East House 

As we marveled at The Upper East House and its grandeur, we couldn’t help but feel excited about what the future held for this thriving township. With residential condominium developments, a Landers Superstore, office towers, a hotel, and a lifestyle mall on the horizon, The Upper East promised to be a vibrant hub where people could live, work, and play, all while celebrating the rich heritage that defined Bacolod City.

“As the lower level of the building buzzed with activity, I took advantage of the moment to have a solo photo opportunity at the front office of the Upper East House. With the Megaworld logo as my backdrop, I struck a pose, capturing a moment of excitement and admiration for this magnificent structure.  This snapshot is a lasting memento of my unforgettable experience at the remarkable township information center.’

Embracing Cultural Legacies: Sharing the Story of The Upper East House

Leaving The Upper East House that day, I deeply appreciated the meticulous attention to detail and the fusion of old and new that made this modern take on Negrense heritage come alive. Through my blog and photographs, I would strive to capture the essence of this remarkable place, sharing its story with the world and inspiring others to embrace its cultural legacies. The Upper East House had become more than just a building—it had become a testament to the enduring spirit of Negros Occidental, a beacon of pride for generations to come.

“Relishing the vibrant atmosphere of the Upper East House, veteran journalists Ms. Carla Gomes and Yasmin Pascual Dormido find themselves in the company of alcohol-free drinks and great conversation.”

Standing in the hallway that leads to the backdoor of the house, I found myself immersed in the timeless beauty of the Upper East House. The corridor, adorned with intricate architectural details and bathed in soft lighting, exuded elegance and sophistication. As I paused for a moment, the serenity of the surroundings captivated me, allowing me to appreciate the seamless fusion of history and modernity within this remarkable establishment. The hallway became a pathway to both the past and the future, symbolizing the rich heritage and promising future of Bacolod City.”

 

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