Client
Ayala Land Inc.
The Future of Urban Connectivity
Ayala North Exchange
Typology
Mixed-Use
Size
169,000 sqm
Services
Lead Local Architect I In collaboration with Architecture International
Location
Makati City, Philippines
Year
2013 - 2018
The Future of Urban Connectivity
Ayala North Exchange represents the initial phase of a larger, long-term development at the northeastern end of Makati’s bustling business district. Positioned in one of the most active hubs of commerce in the Philippines, the project is designed to integrate seamlessly with the existing urban fabric while anticipating future developments, including the planned integration of subway transportation.
This mixed-use development aims to serve as a flagship property that combines retail, workspaces, and hospitality, offering a dynamic addition to the Makati Central Business District. The vision behind Ayala North Exchange is to provide a multifunctional environment that enhances connectivity while addressing the needs of various user groups.
The development's unique configuration accommodates a variety of functions in one complex. The two towers serve different purposes: one is designed specifically for Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) operations, while the taller tower is divided between corporate offices and a serviced apartment facility.
A multi-level retail podium links these distinct uses, ensuring a smooth transition between private spaces and the highly accessible public domain. This podium not only offers commercial opportunities but also connects to an elevated walkway, providing direct access to Ayala Center and the broader Makati CBD.
Thoughtfully designed garden spaces on the podium create pockets of green amidst the urban landscape, offering visitors and workers a much-needed respite from the surrounding congestion. In close collaboration with Architecture International, Aidea shaped a multi-use development that align with Makati’s long-term urban vision. Blending office spaces, hospitality, and retail, the development required careful orchestration to balance accessibility, security, and operational efficiency within a high-density environment. Integrating diverse functions within a compact footprint required strategic planning. A pedestrian-friendly retail podium activates the street-level, while vertically stacked towers maximize space and connectivity. The design creates a seamless urban experience -- balancing work, leisure, and convenience within Makati’s evolving cityscape.
Integrating diverse functions within a compact footprint required strategic planning. A pedestrian-friendly retail podium activates the street-level, while vertically stacked towers maximize space and connectivity. The design creates a seamless urban experience -- balancing work, leisure, and convenience within Makati’s evolving cityscape.
Through VDC, the team integrated complex systems into a cohesive design, enabling collaborative solutions that addressed the diverse functional demands of the towers and podium. This digital-first approach allowed architects, engineers, and consultants to coordinate seamlessly, resolving potential conflicts before construction and ensuring precision in execution.
Beyond efficiency, VDC facilitated real-time decision-making, optimized building performance, and aligned operational requirements with design intent. The result is a future-ready, mixed-use development that not only meets zoning, access, and security needs but also achieves resilience, adaptability, and sustainability within a dense urban environment.
Innovation drove the design of Ayala North Exchange, with Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) playing a central role. Aidea used VDC as a collaborative platform to develop a detailed digital model that guided the project’s planning and execution from start to finish. This allowed for seamless coordination across the international design team and consultants, ensuring that all technical and operational needs were met. The result is a future-ready, mixed-use development recognized for its sustainability, earning both LEED Certification and BERDE 4-Star Certification, affirming its place as one of Makati’s most progressive and environmentally responsible landmarks.
