Here's How You Can Live in Paris Without Paying for a Plane Ticket

This apartment designed by interior designer Van Acuña reflects the owner's personality and personal preferences. The owner had no problem agreeing on the theme and overall design of her starter apartment since her family had previously worked with Van on a number of projects.

The cozy nest looks like a Parisian uproot. Though the owner wanted a pink-and-black color scheme, Van decided to tone down the black to gray. “Siya ang may gusto ng pink. Actually, pink and black, medyo ti-none down ko lang, so ginawa kong pink and gray, tapos konting black… para hindi masyadong strong. Mas sweet,” the designer explains.

All over the 36sqm studio are Parisian elements. The dining area feels like a café, with Thonet-inspired chairs and a pastel-colored bespoke square dining table. The wall is adorned with mirrors that give it a French-window look. From the dining area, one can freely walk to the living area. There, a gray sofa with tufted backrest reigns supreme as centerpiece. It is set against the pink walls, in stark contrast with black, wall-mounted lamps and side tables.

A wonderful feature is the huge walk-in closet where all of the owner's posh clothes, bags, and shoes are on display. A pink French door sets off the bedroom, where pink, white, and gray complement for a cozy sleep area. The wallpaper from Weaves of Asia and the matching duvet and pillowcases from IKEA China conjure sweet dreams punctuated with Parisian music and conversation.

Read the original article ("Think Pink!") in the August 2014 issue of Real Living Magazine. Download your digital copy of Real Living on the Real Living App now! Log on to summitnewsstand.com.ph/real-living for more details.