Let there be light and spaces full of art

MANILA, Philippines - Broadcast personality DJ Joe D’Mango is known for his soothing voice and the much-sought bits of love advice he gives to his listeners. Now, listen up: Known as Rolando Sulit in real life, Joe D’Mango has found another fruitful outlet for his creative juices: Today, he brings his clients newfound comfort as a lighting and art designer through his contemporary home interiors.

Transitioning from radio and TV to interior design was a logical next step, having designed the sets for various TV game and talk shows. It is no wonder that a unit owner at St. Francis Shangri-La Place, one of Shang Properties’ most coveted residential developments entrusted Joe D’ Mango to create a beautiful living space for his young family.

Keeping in mind the homeowner’s needs, as well as those of his wife and two kids, Sulit began his creative process with an initial but thorough sweep of the 256-sqm unit (a combined two two-bedroom units) to provide him ample opportunity to decide on design direction and zero in on elements he can play around with or maximize. With this particular space being located on the 56th floor, Sulit did justice to the original design by taking advantage of the predominantly glass walls, underlining the breathtaking, uncluttered view of the metropolis and utilizing only soft, quiet lights to create a warm glow inside.

There are many considerations in Sulit’s line of work but he focuses on a number of aspects to tailor fit his designs, foremost of which is the flow of energy. “I believe in the energy that runs inside a place,” he reveals.

Less is more: Joe D’Manto subscribes to the minimalist style (which for him means “showing only what is necessary”), and exhibits a penchant for incorporating artwork — a trademark he leaves with every unit he renovates.

Aside from following feng shui principles, he strives to achieve a balance of aesthetics, crafting the warm, livable atmosphere that spells the difference between a house and a home. Fortunately for him, St. Francis Shang’s units already have “good bones” to begin with.

Sulit subscribes to the minimalist style (which for him means “showing only what is necessary”), and exhibits a penchant for incorporating artwork — a trademark he leaves with every unit he renovates. As for setting the mood, the interior designer is passionate about the wonders of clever lighting, as this is one of the easiest and most effective ways to brighten and add drama or depth to a space or area.

“I particularly advocate the use of LED lights, because while they’re a bit expensive, they are more efficient in the long run and have no infrared and UV signatures. Plus, if you have paintings you want to showcase, these will not damage the artworks,” Sulit shares. He points out that proper lighting can, in fact, enhance and highlight quality furniture pieces and home accessories.

Apart from the level of craftsmanship, he commends the St. Francis Shangri-La Place for its structural integrity and strategic location, recounting how his workers did not feel a thing while working inside when the magnitude-5 earthquake occurred. “Aside from location being a major consideration, people should remember the importance of a sound structure and skillful construction,” he emphasizes. “Potential homeowners should carefully look into the quality and dedication that developers put into this.”

Glass act: Joe D’Mango did justice to the original unit design by taking advantage of the predominantly glass walls, underlining the breathtaking, uncluttered view of the metropolis and utilizing only soft, quiet lights to create a warm glow inside.

The same level of quality is maintained throughout, extending, most importantly to the details. Sulit says, “My line of work requires me to be detail-oriented, and I’m impressed with the units’ careful planning and layout. You can really see what kind of standards Shang Properties maintains, and the value residents get.”

His admiration also includes the extensive line-up of amenities. “I haven’t found anything that comes close to the ones here. The haven of amenities definitely adds prestige, and would make anyone say ‘I live in St. Francis Shang’ with pride,” he says, recalling his trip to the eighth floor where the amenities are located.

The interior designer concludes, “Everything at the St. Francis Shangri-La is first-rate. And all these aspects resonate with what the development is all about — luxury and class.”

Shang Properties have always been renowned for offering residents quality design and standards. In keeping with its innovative developments, Shang Properties continues to expand its high-status residences with its new project, One Shangri-La Place, the twin tower residences that will stand atop a six-level mall, located in Ortigas Center.

Featuring the combined efforts of top international and local architectural consultants, the landmark project joins the company’s prestigious roster of residential and commercial developments (The St. Francis Shangri-La Place, The Shang Grand Tower, The Enterprise Center and Shangri-La Plaza Mall), showcasing meticulously designed and constructed spaces that capture the essence of luxe living in the city — a definite signature of the Shang Properties brand.