The Ramon Magsaysay Center as a Modernist Landmark Driving down Roxas boulevard from Rizal Park, what will catch your eye is the most elegant modernist structure in the country, the Ramon Magsaysay Center. Most established Filipino architects put it in their top ten lists of favorite buildings. It was designed by Alfredo J. Luz, who […]
A Mid-Century Modern Condo Designed to Escape the Busy City
Home is a place for solace for many. Living in a bustling city, however, having a home that offers peace and quiet can be a challenge. Space Project takes on the challenge to renovate a condo unit at BGC, Taguig. The owner wanted a timeless modern look that would allow him to have solace in the middle of a bustling city.
The 43 square-meter space is a shared vision by the client and the designers to produce something mixing the old and new in a fun and elegant way. According to the architects, this project is similar to the experiments homeowners have done in their spaces during the pandemic. During the initial stages of the design process, the design team began defining the space. How can a homeowner make the most of a certain area in their home?
The dining area welcomes one upon entrance, creating a striking first impression with the yellow eggshell chair. It is a matte-looking polypropylene version of the Eames chair.
“When we started working on this project, the client showed us photos of light and airy mid-century modern images. The team knew from that moment it would be exciting to break away from contemporary style for a moment,” shares the architects.
Apart from the chair, the space also features another classic Eames design, which is “The Hang It All.” The design team also included in this area is a not much of a modest industrial-looking dome red pendant lamp. To the designers, The alluring mix of vintage-inspired items that feel and look familiar creates a comfortable atmosphere within a fun composition of things.
The team was honest that the direction of this project was a recess from their usual work. “Choosing the right color of blue was a challenge. When we finished the overall styling of the place, it felt unreal. Parang hindi namin gawa”. The client wanted popping colors that would make the space more vibrant by pairing it with wood flooring and modern items such as a console.
Despite the availability of advanced features, the architects higlight how many yearn for much simpler systems and things. The living area of this condo unit, for instance, would make one excited for some afternoon siestas and lazy evenings. This area features a Togo chair with cocooning curves and low-to-the-ground format.
Moreover, the Togo chair is paired with Hablon pillows from Casa Di Alejo, a brand owned by the design team. They explained that Hablon is a known handwoven textile from Iloilo traditionally made with a handloom using natural fibers, such as abaca, piña, and cotton.
A custom marble-like rug sits at the center to complement the timeless classic design and maximize the soothing hues of the space. The rug’s unique pattern adds an unexpected touch to the room and helps create a sense of warmth and comfort. Its subtle color variations bring a sense of depth and texture to the space. It also creates an interesting tactical focal point.
The office area is the design team’s favorite part of the space. It features the Cesca Armchair paired with a Flavio Desk which has an oak veneer top with solid wood legs. On top of the desk are six open shelves of varying sizes. These allow the users to store their small office supplies in one easy-to-reach location.
These furniture pieces provide the perfect combination of style and functionality, making them ideal for any office. The combination of the two creates a comfortable and inviting atmosphere, which is essential for a place of creativity and deep thinking.
Having mid-Century as the core design of the space, which is known for its clean lines and clay red hues, the design team mixed materials and aesthetics to add extra flair. For the bedroom area, the team opted to play once again with egg blue hues while incorporating modern and iconic pieces.
This area features the IKEA Blasverk Table Lamp Blue. It complements the iconic Hang It All which can also be seen in the living room area. Another element in this space is the custom-made sheer black-out curtain made from Casa Di Alejo.
The style of design for this project is characterized by clean lines, natural materials, and earth-toned colors and it celebrates the intersection of form and function, creating a sense of comfort.
While the project blends mid-century design with modern elements, forming its core design concept, its primary objective is to instill a feeling of calm and familiarity in the midst of a bustling city. This is achieved through the deliberate use of natural materials, classic pieces, and vintage color palettes. Ultimately, the team’s aspiration is that this project will not only bring tranquility but also foster a strong sense of connection among the people who encounter it.
RELATED READ: For Newfound Independence: Tips For the First-Time Condo Owner
Photos from Space Project
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