Interior motives

If you had a free-hand in personalizing your own room, what would it look like? Well, a simple character test will do the trick. Let the 2005 graduates of the Philippine School for Interior Design show you how. In an ongoing one-of-a-kind exhibit at Greenbelt 1 featuring two floors of 22 uniquely designed interiors, you can determine your personality traits via a series of questions. Whether you’re the laidback type, the sensual bohemian or the sophisticated cosmopolitan, you will be given pointers on how to decorate your own space – be it an office, a home, restaurant, bathroom, etc. – according to your personality.

According to the personality test, I was most attracted to "pure" looks. Think of white spaces, a mix of industrial and modern designs that felt simple yet sophisticated. I also found out that I had a preference for traditional Laura Ashley type of designs – exactly like the one in booth No. 3 named Seaside Comfort made by Ian Santillian, and sisters Sasa and Cat Coronel. The look reminded me of a hot summer at the Hamptons – nautical blends of crisp whites and cool blue combined with furniture made of woven materials and natural fibers. A relaxing atmosphere that makes you want to curl up in a comfy hammock and read your favorite novel while sipping a glass of ice-cold lemonade. Dhanya, which means meditation, was created by Bie Magalong, Ayens Tan and Carlo Lao. A circular area for worship accented by a mosaic lotus bloom and topped by a huge chandelier the focal point being a mural of the Hindu god Ganesh, the place transports you into the world of Hinduism and Indian mysticism. Who would have thought that this serene prayer room could look amazingly lush, rich, and exuberant due to the colors, dramatic lighting and luxe fabrics that were used. Bisyo, actualized by James Reyes, Kristine Reantso, Eunice Albano, Queendy Ong, Diwata Cruz, Chester Dimapilis, and Feliz Francia, oozes with male sex appeal – a perfect bachelor pad for the man with a playful attitude. The place screams "No Rules!" what with a motorbike, chain drops and the focal point – a vintage car sticking out of the wall accenting the room – which undeniably brings you to the world of men, men, and more men.

From traditional to deconstructed looks, the PSID students’ designs once again bring out their artistic and inventive sides. Moreover, this gives us much to look forward to. Here’s to more creative and innovative concepts in interiors in the coming years.