Modern Filipino Pieces Star In This 250sqm Family Home

Homeowner-couple Gigi and Gerald didn't have a clear picture in their heads of what their 250sqm house would look like. Collaborating with architect Michael Pena, Gigi, who is a designer, didn't have a detailed plan that was set in stone—she thought of ceiling and wall treatments as they went along, and decorated it herself in the end. "Hindi niya alam kung anong kalalabasan. Hindi ko rin alam kung anong kalalabasan," she recalls. What she did know was that she wanted a modern home that was kid-friendly and clean.

"I like the modern concept, but I don't know if I was successful," Gigi says with a chuckle. This isn’t your typical cold, Zen-modern home, as the house emanates warmth and plenty of character. And while it is uncluttered, there is something to capture your attention at every corner. "There are lots of things going on. Everywhere you look, you won't get bored."

Since she has two active kids in the house, Gigi decided to keep accessories to a minimum. She has paintings by Araceli Dans, National Artist BenCab, Celis, and Ann Pamintuan; but other than that, tabletops are mostly bare. She focused instead on surface finishes. Ceilings and walls come in various colors and interesting textures: there is a ribbed wall in the foyer, an Ann Pamintuan wall accent made of forged metal, and a painted gold ceiling with a stippled oil texture in the dining room. Rough walls in white, gold, and bronze-Gigi's favored colors-are found in the bedroom. "The colors don't go out of style. Nung wedding namin, ganyan din ang colors ng entourage…and it's still nice," she remarks. 

As is the case with many designers, Gigi keeps on dreaming of changes she wants to make—new furniture pieces, finishes, accents. But she reveals that, despite the time and effort she has lavished on their home, most of their attention is still devoted to their kids. "A beautiful house is secondary," she says.