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TESTIMONIALS
“It’s cool and light. Not too loud. Comfortable color (especially if you want people who come into your office to feel “chill”... shoutout to raging parents or intimidated students).”
“I will definitely recommend you to my friends. I’m also excited to see their reactions when they see the dining room.”
Scandiriffic!
Make your space cozier and adopt the Scandinavian design philosophy! No, you won't need to change design styles. Yes, you can still get a similar aesthetic.
If there's one thing I have learned about designing interiors, it's that every client has their own design style. Learning about styles in my courses in PSID (Phil. School of Interior Design) and my review classes at CDEP (Center for Design Environments Profession) taught me that design styles are rooted in history and are always a reaction from the previous period. No, I won't bore you with a recount of the long history of art, architecture and interiors. I will however, give you some tips that you can use in your own space.
As I've mentioned in my previous post, Scandinavian design is here to stay. You may not have a Scandinavian interior but that doesn't mean that you can't adopt their philosophy!
1. Practice "Hygge" ("hue-guh").
Hygge is a Danish word that is used when acknowledging a feeling or moment. It only means a conscious appreciation, and the ability to recognize and enjoy the present. It's not about buying things at all. It's appreciating everything from a simple cup of coffee to having a home-cooked dinner with friends.
2. Marry Form with Function
Over the years, different architects and interior designers have varying philosophies. From "function over form" to "form follows function." Each one has a different belief. Why the need to sacrifice one over the other? The beauty of Scandi design is that it believes in function and form at the same time. That means no, you don't need to sacrifice beauty in favor of function, and vise-versa.
What's more, great design can be affordable. Do you know that plenty of the chairs you see at the restaurants are actually made by well-known designers? The chair below was designed by Charles and Ray Eames.
3. Add plants!
Natural is in! And even if it's not, who cares? I love plants and the way they liven up the space and makes you feel calmer. If you notice the Scandinavians, they love placing plants everywhere! Think you don't have a green thumb? That's actually not true! Just know that different plants have different requirements for sunlight, air, and soil. Find some recommendations on my post about indoor plants.
4. Seek warmth.
Nordic countries are cold. That's why they love adding rugs to their floor and sheepskin to their sofa. If you live in a tropical country like I do, I don't necessarily advocate that you add sheepskin, however, you can always add handwoven throws or blankets! Of course, if you do want to have sheepskin, go right ahead. I love the texture and warmth it brings. You can also add candles. In the bedroom, lavender scented candles are perfect to melt your stress away.
5. With warmth comes character too.
For me, a house with character is a space that showcases the homeowner's personality. This means displaying your collections, and not simply keeping them where you can't see, hanging art, and maybe sculptures too. Whatever floats your boat. While I do, of course, appreciate well-known artists, nobody ever dictated that you had to have a Hidalgo or a Manansala for your space. There are plenty of artists who can make your home beautiful as well. My only guideline: Do buy the one that makes your heart beat faster!
If you're not into art, there are homemade crafts as well. My grandma loved to crochet. Although it may seem "old," what better treasure to use than hand-crafted works of art? You don't even need to spend at all and beautiful memories will always be one for the books.
A final note: No need to spend a ton for all your design needs too. You can scour thrift shops. Sometimes, vintage looks even better. We all know how companies try to imitate that vintage look. For further guidance on thrifting, check out my guidelines too!
That Scandi Feeling
The trend in interiors here in the Philippines used to be all about industrial. That masculine converted warehouse look appealed to both, male and female. Now, the trendy design style is Scandinavian. Ikea, one of the most popular furniture shops the world over, captures this perfectly. We, Filipinos, absolutely love Ikea. We cannot get enough of it especially when traveling abroad as unfortunately, Ikea has yet to open here. What's more, I've been seeing more Scandinavian shops open here, both online and offline. And so, without further ado, let me introduce you to one of the most loved design styles here and the world over!
What makes Scandinavian so appealing? For one, it balances functionality with beauty. It's that sleek but pared down look. It's minimalist and modern but has a cozy feel (called Hygge, "hue-guh") unlike the Modern movement with its glass and steel aesthetic. For our homes, we definitely want cozy. So how do we achieve that look?
1. Use light wood, naturally varnished floors.
2. Embrace the light.
Make use of plenty of large windows to add that needed sunlight.
3. Use predominantly white, grey colors, neutral and muted colors and natural wood finishes.
Though the color scheme is mostly neutral, you can still have a Scandi look with pops of color.
4. It's all about nature. Add indoor plants and flowers!
As an added bonus, plants can purify the air perfect especially for those in the city.
5. Use metal accents on lighting or furniture like copper, brass, or rose gold.
Pinterest - been trying to get the source but can't seem to find it.
6. Since Scandinavia has those long, cold winters, they make use of warm textiles like wool and sheep skin.
7. Use minimal accessories.
8. Rely on mid-century modern furniture classics from designers like Eames, Alvar Aalto, Aarne Jacobsen.
Culture Nordic
9. Use rugs, not a carpet.
Rugs are used to delineate certain areas of the room while carpets cover the entire floor.
10. Add geometric patterns.
This can range from stripes to squares to the latest hexagon craze.
11. Add textures.
This makes for a warm feeling and keeps things interesting. Try using woven baskets for your plants, or as a bin to organize your things.
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Secrets I Learned as a Designer
Some things I certainly wish I knew earlier. But, no worries, I will let you in on my secrets!
1. Always measure your space.
It always pays to measure. You can never be too careful. The wrong size can always lead to purchase regrets. I once purchased this beautiful mirror that I thought was perfect for my bath. But I wasn’t sure about the size. It ended up being too huge. It’s still there grossly reminding me of my mistake!
2. Have a mood board.
A mood board helps set the ambience, the feelings you want evoked in your space. You can make this digitally and use it whenever you go out shopping for your furniture and accessories. It will help you narrow down your choices and definitely eliminate those unwanted impulse purchases.
3. Have a photo of your space.
If it’s a trend, ask yourself “Will I still love this a year from now, 5 years? Just because everyone’s in love with it now doesn’t mean you should buy it. It may not fit your room or even your scheme. So always have a photo of your space to check if it actually fits your decor.
4. Follow your color scheme and design style.
You see this gorgeous azure vase and it seems to be calling to you. The price ain’t bad either. You think it’s a deal but check out your design colors and design style too. Will it fit? Or is it too harsh? Don’t buy it and only regret over impulsive decisions. That’s always something that will be relegated to the corner.
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PORTFOLIO
Decorate with Intention
I've always believed in making your home personal. Don't you want a home that reflects you and not some trendy Pinterest board that probably everyone has?
There are so much guides out there that talk about what to put on your coffee table, bookshelf, or any other place where you want to put decor. But have you ever thought what is right FOR YOU?! Yes, I don't believe in adding décor just because it's trending. Although, to be honest, yes, I've gone with trends too. Problem with my passion project is that I see plenty of pretty things! Ugh, the dilemma!
You know, you don't really want everything you see in a trendy inspirational photo to also be in your home. Although if you like trendy, no one's stopping you! Just beware that trends come and go. Your home should showcase your personality and that of your family. It's not a model unit meant to be showcased for all but for you to enjoy your life so you can live exactly the way you like it.
1. Greenery is King
Nowadays, the trendy thing is to have plants and cacti in your home. Oh boy, I do loooove plants! But before you even plunge into the plant craze, please do some research and find out what plants will actually thrive in your home. Admittedly, I've had some plants die on me... Sometimes, you just can't help the bad weather.
What do you do? Research, research, research... Different plants have different needs. If you want a cactus, don't even dare put it in a place with little sunlight. Cacti thrive in the sun and so be mindful or your poor plants will die and you'd think you have a black thumb. The oh-so-trendy fiddle leaf fig, on the other hand, is one that likes bright filtered light. Direct sunlight will burn the leaves!
2. Flowers are Simply Gorgeous
Who can resist a bunch of fresh flowers? If you have flowers in the garden, that will be ideal. If not, even though plenty designers shudder with faux flowers, there are beautiful silk flowers you can use! Don't get the cheap plasticky ones because they are really tacky. The key to decorating within your budget is to do it a section at a time. Whoever said you need all the décor right now?! So wait a bit and buy when you have the savings!
3. Art and Books Always Add Character
What other things should you consider to add some style? Art and sculpture will always be timeless. Books are always good to add height to your objects of art and yes, for someone to actually read! I love reading books and magazines.
4. Photos are Lovely Personal Touches
People nowadays don't print photos but how about considering it? A family photo will always be something you will treasure. If you're really not into the printed photo, there are digital frames that show different photos you've taken. Your guests will love looking at these personal stuff. Or even if you don't have guests frequently, aren't they a good reminder of you and your loved ones?
5. Travel Mementos to Remind You of Your Favorite Places
Finally, if you travel a lot (or maybe even if it's a few times only), consider pretty travel mementos to add some spice to your space.
6. Nothing Says You More Than Your Collection
Are you a fan of Stranger Things? Maybe you have a collection of wine bottles? Even perfume bottles can be a collection. That always reminded me of my grandma. She had a really pretty doll in her closet together with her numerous collection of perfume bottles. I saw it occasionally when she opened her closet but why keep it out of sight when you can admire them on a place you can see everyday?
So what are you waiting for? Go ahead and decorate your space!!! It's so therapeutic to see a well-styled space!
“Decorate with intention!”
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What Exactly Is Your Filipino Carpenter Saying?
Construction is complicated. It even gets worse when you don't understand what the workers are saying. Let me break down those Filipino words you were always curious about but never deigned to ask.
Before I ventured into interior design, I was just like you trying to build my dream home. There were times that my carpenter asked me something, and it literally took me like 2 minutes... maybe more... staring and wondering what the heck he was saying. Yes, it seemed like Greek! Most of them are derived from Spanish words but hey, no habla Español. Well, to make it easier for you, I've compiled a short list of Filipino construction terms so you finally understand what they are saying!
Alahado - Flush - a state of alignment, where two things are even/aligned against each other. Let's say you're asking your mason to make the tile flush to the concrete surface, "Alahado ba?"
Alambre - Steel Wire
Ampaw/Kapak - honeycomb air pockets that form on the concrete if it isn't applied correctly. The problem with this is that your concrete won't be strong. The more air pockets, the weaker the concrete, and you don't want that! This also applies to the way tiles are layed incorrectly. That means if there's a hollow sound, there are air pockets between the tile and the concrete surface. What happens is that your tile will get loose or crack. Beware of this!!
Alulod - Gutter - usually refers to the gutter in the roof where rainwater collects and continues to a downspout
Asintada - Alignment - To line up things so they are even. You want, let's say, your wall and your tile to be even, you tell your mason, "Asintahin mo," that means to align. Or "wala sa asintada" means out of alignment.
Bahada - Slope - Your bathroom needs to be sloping towards the drain to prevent water from pooling, thereby causing mold and mildew to your tiles.
Biga - Beam
bisagra
Bisagra - Hinge - First time I heard this, I had a blank stare! Hahahaha!
Dos Por Dos - 2"x2" - refers to lumber
Hamba - Door/Window Jamb - frame of the door/window
Haspe - Wood Grain - Normally, your carpenter will ask you what direction the wood grain (pattern on the wood) should be. When they say, "pino ang haspe" that means the wood grain is fine.
Hulog - Plumb Line - a string with a metal weight that when suspended goes vertically down. It is used to find the depth of water or to determine verticality.
Masilya - Putty - a compound used to fill holes, normally used during finishing.
Palitada - Plaster - the act of plastering a surface like putting cement on the wall
Pasamano - Window Sill
Rehas - Window Grill
Roskas - Thread - the part of a pipe/screw/bolt with grooves. When your plumber/carpenter says, "maluwag na ang roskas" that means the thread is loose and you need to change it.
Tambol - Board up - If you want to cover something ugly, like wires or pipes showing, you ask your carpenter to board it up. "Tambulan mo ito."
Tumbok or Butt joint -woodwork basics.com
Tumbok - Butted/Butt Joint - a joint where two surfaces meet at right angles
Media Agua - Canopy
Poso Negro - Septic Tank - a watertight container that receives waste from a sewage system
Poste/Haligue - Column/Post
Senepa - Fascia Board - a horizontal board to cover some things like a fluorescent light
Tambak - Fill
Turnilyo - Screw- don't confuse with pako which is a nail. Yes, it happens. Don't worry, I won't tell!
This is by no means an exhaustive resource but these are some common words I've encountered during construction.
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Clean Your Life by Cleaning Your Closet
In this increasingly small space we live in or maybe it simply seems that our space is forever decreasing, it's about time to decluttering our closet and take charge!
I admit it. I hoard clothes. Sometimes, I just don't use some because I get tired of seeing it everyday. Other times, it's because I know I'll fit into them again someday. Yes, decluttering is certainly something we all need for a better, peaceful, and less stressful life. So here's a roundup of some tips:
- Turn around all the hangers in your closet the wrong way- with the hook facing you. When you use them, turn it the normal way. Do this for 3-6 months. Anything that isn't hung the normal way, you should dispose.
- Finish your decluttering completely. That means all the things to give away, give them away TODAY, not tomorrow.
- Take it one step at a time. Don't try and tackle your whole wardrobe in just one sitting. That will lead to burnout and eventually not finishing what you started. Take a few minutes per day and do it by section. This way you won't get overwhelmed.
- Label your bins. Yes, I know doing this extra step seems too much. But taking a few minutes just to label makes your decluttering and organizing that much easier to maintain.
- Take a few minutes every day, say 5 minutes to put away your things in the proper place. This way, your clutter won't accumulate.
- Place a catchall for your daily use. This is where you can place your keys, watch or jewelry that you use every day.
A final word: Take it easy. Organizing your closet (or any part of your house for that matter) does not need to happen overnight. A few simple steps per day will help keep your things in order.