Perched on the hillside terrain of San Mateo, Rizal, the Poco Villa holds a panoramic skyline view, overlooking the cities of Metro Manila. Contrary to his band’s rock and roll concept, Louie Poco, son of the client and the bassist of The Bloomfields Band, favored a contemporary and minimalist approach for his family home.

The interior details translate to Space Project Interior Design Services’ choice for a simple yet elegantly designed home. The overall concept of its interior design revolves around minimalism and modern luxury with the use of all-natural elements. Stones and wood materials, which are the most basic in construction, were used to exemplify the simplicity of the design. Meanwhile, the adequate use of muted colors such as white, gray, and brown, accented by a metallic finish are the details that made the design sophisticated as a whole.

The neutral shades utilized in the living room highlight how certain parts reflect lights, making the space open and airy. This is further complemented when the daytime sun comes in from the full-height windows. The glass panels used are insulated with heat and UV protection to protect the fabrics and materials from fading from direct sunlight which was a clever move considering the intensity of the sunlight in the Philippines. Wall finishes come in a smooth texture of Venetian plaster, sending out an illusion of standing within a work of art. The ceiling lights with metal accents give a sense of balance, and the furniture utilized allows airflow, making the space warm and inviting. 

The dining room shines in the corner with hanging round lights in a metallic finish while the curtain lines tinted with soft tones bring a more comfortable feel. The plain-colored cabinets are straightforward and the patterned rug amplifies the colors. To top off the modern look is an accent artwork that makes a statement on the wall. An open outdoor view and the marble countertop highlight the kitchen space.

While the walls of the general areas are in Venetian plaster finish, textured wallpapers polished the bedrooms. Minimal pieces of furniture are installed in the master and guest bedrooms, ensuring a clutter-free space. Probably the most anticipated area is the master bedroom which features a jib door to the walk-in closet. The door stands on the right side of the bed camouflaged as one of the wall mirrors. This room also made great use of neutral colors as the combinations applied made the room appear larger than it really was. Accompanied by mirrored compartments on the closet, the illusion created by the neutral colors was enhanced.

Bathrooms are ensuite across all bedrooms, ensuring easy access. The integration of automated bathroom toilet seats makes the design smart and future-ready. These technologies are part of the designing solutions to provide sustainable and efficient space for Poco Family. The organized placement of the plants throughout the villa brings the outdoors inside, following minimalist principles. 

Taking inspiration from Louie Poco’s condominium property, he requested to conceal air conditioning units in compartments. With ‘designing solutions’ and ‘safety before aesthetics’ philosophy at the backbone of the design, wood slats covered the AC units not to ruin the overall beauty of the villa. 

If anything, the design stamped with the “less is more” approach and maximizes the usage of natural light and the lush environment through the skylight and open space plan. -IDr. Ken Ferolino, piid

The third story is an ideal space for an afternoon tea or an evening party. White and cream shades of furniture fill the roof deck space, and the colors blend with the breathtaking view of the lush greenery. Additionally, knowing the client’s personality, the band room is a must-have in the villa. It’s a space dedicated to his passion for music and instruments. 

Poco Villa design sets the balance between simplicity and elegance. Its tempered yet luxurious details reflect a fresher look for modern houses. For the owner, the villa is a breath of fresh air. It’s a place where he can be naturally free and outgoing. Just the combination of contemporary and minimalist approaches alone makes its design unique for a Filipino home.