Condos

A Student Designed This Studio Unit with A P76,000 Budget

To turn the 20sqm space into a relaxing haven reminiscent of the outdoors, the promising young designer brought in plants, chose calming colors, and maximized the available space

Photography: Hans Fausto Styling: Kamila Arianna Garcia

Our Facebook inbox is a treasure trove of inspiring reader makeovers and homes built with a minimal budget. This studio unit in Quezon City stands out because it’s not only designed with a tight budget, a talented student from the University of the East was behind it, too. “This project was used for my thesis subject, FIN 419, which required us to look for a client who wants to renovate 90% of their home. My brother volunteered to be my client. After reviewing the final output, one of the judges approached me and asked me if I want to send my project to Real Living. At first, hindi ko sure kasi akala ko hindi matatanggap kasi student palang ako. My parents convinced me and told me that it’s a chance to showcase my work,” shares Arvin Ramos.

Arvin’s brother’s studio unit measures 20sqm and this limited area is challenging to work with. Since the owner is busy overseeing his businesses, he doesn’t have the luxury of time to visit parks to be able to unwind and relax. To address this, Arvin opted for an open layout to make the unit airy and spacious. “[I also] brought the outdoor atmosphere indoors by using natural shades of wood, displaying indoor plants, and working with exposed metals. A splash of green makes it calming as well,” he explains. Since he incorporated existing furniture pieces into the final look, he only spent around P76, 000 to give the studio a new look. Sourcing and shopping at Dangwa, Quezon City Circle, and different stores helped him achieve his vision for the space while staying within the budget.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

Living Area / Entrance

More on Realliving.com.ph

Shares

Read more stories about

Latest Stories

Common Misconceptions About Minimalism, According to an Interior Designer

A minimalist home can most definitely still have splashes of color, and as long as it's done with restraint, those well-placed hues can actually be the highlight of your home.

Did You Know That Yassi Pressman Has A Lakehouse Airbnb in Canada?

Get a tour of Redkey Lakehouse in Ontario.

Ward Off Mosquitoes: Products to Buy During the Rainy Season

Because we want our homes to be safe havens.

Minimalist Furniture 101: How to Pick the Right Pieces for Your Home

Create a space that exudes simplicity and sophistication by choosing the right minimalist furniture for your home.

We Tested Different Mattresses, Here Are Our Top 5 Picks

Our writer tested (and lay down on) the beds in these mattress showrooms to see what feels good and which ones would fit within your budget

20 Common Construction Terms, Decoded

Don't get lost in translation with your foreman and avoid mistakes with this handy, on-site guide by a project manager

Here Are 7 Hotel-Like Bedsheets You Can Buy Online

Invest in your sleep and add these to your cart.

This Airbnb in Zambales Seamlessly Blends Modern Design & Probinsya Feels

This property can comfortably fit up to 40 people!

Check Out Jennylyn Mercado & Dennis Trillo’s Charming Mountain Hideaway

It has a greenhouse, several viewing decks, and much more.

MUJI’s New Airbnb is the Perfect Place to Experience A Slower, More Sustainable Lifestyle

Its design marries the traditional Japanese aesthetic with MUJI's trademark minimalism.

8 Practical Ways to Give Your Bathroom a Relaxing Vibe

Learn how to transform your bathroom into a peaceful retreat with these practical tips and tricks. Create a spa-like atmosphere and enhance your relaxation experience.

Everything You Need to Know About Minimalist Asian Aesthetic

It's worth the budol, if you think about it.
Load More Stories