People often say, “Out with the old, in with the new,” but what if the old was never gone—just waiting for its return? Today, as trends move quickly, there is a renewed appreciation for bringing back what once shaped a city’s character. Megaworld is embracing this movement through its township, Winford Resort Estate, which brings back the charm of pre-war Manila and transforms the area into the capital’s newest lifestyle destination.

Rising on the former San Lazaro Hippodrome, the ₱20-billion, three-hectare township will showcase “Old Manila” architecture in a modern mixed-use community. Its master plan features French Renaissance, Neo-Classical, and Art Deco details, with the Manila Paseo offering cobblestone walkways, heritage-style storefronts, and al fresco dining inspired by Escolta and Calle Crisologo. With residential towers, a hotel, and a retail strip near Lucky Chinatown and the university belt, the development is positioned to serve as both a lifestyle hub and a convenient home for students, professionals, and families.

Kelvin Uy, head of sales and marketing at Megaworld Manila, said the transformation aims to give the area a distinct identity by honoring its history while embracing modern living. “We are designing Winford Resort Estate to honor the rich heritage of this historic area with a fresh look that reflects Manila’s golden years. It’s about making people feel at home by blending nostalgia with modern comforts, in a way that people can live in, walk through, and experience every day,” Uy said.

The township’s newest development, One Crown Suites, is a 17-story condominium with 389 units built for students and young professionals, offering smart home features and amenities such as swimming pools, co-working spaces, and function rooms. Located in Sta. Cruz near the University Belt and major hospitals, Winford Resort Estate is easily accessible through Felix Huertas Road, LRT-1, and key public transport routes.

With this vision, Winford Resort Estate continues to revive the character of Old Manila while offering a modern, connected way of life for today’s city dwellers. As Uy said, “Smart features, co-working areas, and lifestyle amenities all come together in this development that is just a short walk away from schools and other key establishments,” reflecting Megaworld’s goal of building a community that honors the past and supports the needs of the present.