Its revival is spearheaded by property giant Megaworld, led by tycoon Kevin Tan, which is redeveloping the site into Winford Resort Estate.
Under this redevelopment, the three-hectare estate will emerge as a mixed-use community, featuring architecture inspired by French Renaissance, Neo-Classical, and Art Deco influences.
Here’s an early look at how this concept is taking shape:
Honoring Manila’s heritage
“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,” said Kelvin Uy, Head of Sales and Marketing at Megaworld Manila.
“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,” he added.
One highlight of Winford Resort Estate will be the Manila Paseo, a strip with cobblestone walkways, heritage-style façades, al fresco dining, and a mix of shops and hangout spots inspired by the charm of Escolta and Calle Crisologo.
What happened before
In 2022, Megaworld bought the San Lazaro property in Sta. Cruz, Manila from the Reyno family of Manila Jockey Club Inc. for P1.8 billion.
The site once hosted the San Lazaro Hippodrome, a racetrack that Manila Jockey Club relocated to Carmona, Cavite in 2003.
It was then redeveloped into the 16-hectare San Lazaro Tourism and Business Park, opening the area to commercial projects and paving the way for larger township plans.
A new home for students, young professionals
Megaworld is also launching One Crown Suites inside Winford Resort Estate, a 17-storey condo with 389 smart-enabled units ranging from studios to two-bedrooms.
Designed for students and young professionals, it comes with lifestyle amenities such as pools, co-working spaces, game rooms, and a roof deck with a garden, lounge, and sports courts.
Strategically located in Sta. Cruz near the University Belt and major hospitals, the township is accessible via LRT-1, jeepneys, and other public transport routes.
“With One Crown Suites, we wanted to create a home that’s practical for students and young professionals, but also forward-looking. 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,” Uy said.
