Parqal, a five-hectare mixed-use development by D.M. Wenceslao and Associates, Inc. (DMWAI), has been named one of the world’s most beautiful emporiums by the prestigious Prix Versailles.
The Prix Versailles, held annually at UNESCO since 2015, is a global architectural competition that recognizes contemporary projects for their innovation, creativity, reflection of local heritage, ecological efficiency, and alignment with UN values on social interaction and sustainability.
Jérôme Gouadain, secretary general of the Prix Versailles, emphasized the role of these commercial spaces in reinventing themselves to meet community needs and contribute to sustainable cities. “Emporiums are amongst the top identifiers and influencers of today’s changing societies. Because of their heightened sensitivity to visitor numbers, they are compelled to reinvent themselves in the most promising ways,” Gouadain said.
He added, “This collection, this sample, of the world’s most beautiful emporiums, demonstrates the many paths that lead to business that is truly open to the aspirations, needs, well-being and environment of local inhabitants. The pleasure derived from visiting a place generates moments that deliver sensations, emotions, an escape from the mundane and interpersonal connections. These highly cultural benefits also contribute to the shared experience – a laudable ambition in favor of sustainable cities.”
Other architectural marvels on the list include Dior in Geneva, Switzerland; SKP in Chengdu, China; Nouvelles Galeries in Annecy, France; Sabyasachi in Mumbai, India; Bookshops at the Colosseum in Rome, Italy; and Boucheron Ginza in Tokyo, Japan.
The 2024 list will compete for three world titles – Prix Versailles, Interior, and Exterior – with the winners set to be announced at UNESCO Headquarters on December 2, 2024.
Located in Aseana City, Parañaque, the name "Parqal" playfully combines "park" and "kalye" (street), capturing the essence of this vibrant venue.
The next chapter of the Prix Versailles will unfold on September 30, when the world selections for campuses, passenger stations, sports, and airports – the category in which Clark International Airport was recognized as one of the "World’s Most Beautiful Airports" in 2023 – will be revealed.