House of Onika | Interior Design Blog

Learning the Ropes of Carpentry

2011-12-20T23:39:00.003+08:00

Enrico or Rico as he is fondly called by his colleagues has developed a knack for creating furniture. Having been sent to one of the Nordic countries inspired this I.T. professional to kick-off his (growing) woodwork projects.

1. What made you decide to pursue such hobby?

I recently moved in into a new apartment that has no built-in cabinets. I tried to negotiate with a carpenter to build them for me but he was busy. After a while, I remembered what my experiences from another country told me, the homeowners would usually build things on their own like paint their own houses, make their own patios, create their own furniture, and many more things that will not require special license to accomplish. I can build furniture too that will exactly fit the little space that I have. I also thought it will be fun. So I decided to just do it on my own.

Next project: 230x160cm cabinet.
Clamps fixing two boards
to saw at the same time.

2. How did you start?
I tried to think how feasible could it be. There's a nearby hardware shop so it's easy to get the materials. Then I started measuring and imagined how will it look. Do I also have good space to work on? Then I started investing on power tools. My first was a jigsaw.

3. What was your first creation?

A book shelf. Wrong measurements, misusage of tools and non-alignment are mistakes to be learned. But the book shelf is functional.

4. What are your inspirations for your creations?

I'm always looking forward to get the "sense of accomplishment" feeling, which is very satisfying.
5. How long did it take to finish your very first creation?

A couple of weeks. I can only work on weekends and my first was really a trial.

6. Where did you get your materials?

There is a nearby hardware shop where I can conveniently get the resources I needed.

7. Out of your busy schedule how do you find time to make your furniture?

I only do it on weekends, there are times when I even continue late at night when I just want to keep on working.

8. Do you plan to pursue it professinaly? or make it as a business someday?

As of the moment no. It's really difficult to balance the schedule because I also have a job and could probably frustrate a client when one piece will take me a very long while to finish.

230x160cm cabinet: now look at the interior,
"I feel good with the results. some angles
are slightly incorrect but dismissible."

9. What other furniture do you have in mind that you plan to make?

I'm thinking of bed. But I still don't have an idea of how I want it to look like.

10. If let say you have something that you already have in mind that you want to create how do you usually start?

I usually draw how it should appear on paper, I draw the different angles of my imagined furniture then I take the measurements. I think of ways to maximize my materials, example all the possible cuts I could maximize a 4feet by 4feet board. And when I start, it's really hard to stop because the fun comes with it too. Until I feel really tired or it's late night or if I have to sleep early because I need to go to work the following day.

This bookshelf is my first creation. Lots of mistakes made, but lessons were learned. i'm happy that it's functional.

11.What part do you think you still need to improve in terms of the furnitures you've already made?

I really wish I could use the jigsaw with no guide and cut a very straight line. I also want to learn the tricks in using paint because I always use lamination which has its own disadvantages, that way I will know different combinations on how to end my work with the best polish.

* as reported by Kristian Hurtado
** photo credit: Enrico Agodilla

DIY Custom Dresser

2011-02-16T11:38:00.007+08:00

One of my ultimate dreams in life is to own a furniture shop and sell original pieces at affordable prices. But since I still lack the resources and hours to go at it full time, I decided to start small. Back in the '80s, space planning and storage solutions weren't given that much thought when building homes. Our house is no exception. My room is a square area, probably 9 x 9 ft., and on one side is where my floor-to-ceiling closet is located. I have no side tables or drawers to store the clutter that I have accumulated over the years, so I decided to build one. I hired a carpenter to build the dresser and then finished it myself. It took the carpenter two days to do his work and took me three days to complete the finishing.

I wanted something that would liven up my room so I searched the Internet for a pattern that will match the color of my walls and then decided that I wanted a distressed finish for the sides and the top.

Here's how it turned out:

All in all, the dresser only cost me around half the price of what it would cost if I bought it outside.

The RONAC Art Center

2011-02-11T18:44:00.008+08:00

The RONAC Art Center opened its doors to the public late last year. Right along busy Ortigas Avenue, you can find this one-of-a-kind structure standing out amongst its neighbors. If you take a look, the windows may seem small and insufficient for natural light to permeate, which is actually not the case once you see it from the inside. And here's a bit of trivia for you--the window design actually is morse code for the lyrics of Kanye West's Stronger. Amazing.

Secret Fresh and Gallery sells vinyl toys by Kathy Olivas, Ron English, Kozik, and Kaws, to name a few.

They also sell prints by famous artist JP Cuison for P1,500 each.

A view of the third and fourth floor from the spiral staircase. We just love the wood flooring!

The RONAC Art Center uses a uniform font for all their signages--even the signages for the shops at the Deck and the ground floor.

Terminal MNL sells clothes and accessories from Japan and shoes from Puma and Adidas.

A huge LCD wall adorns the facade of one of the stores at the Deck, where weekend chill sessions take place.

The Playground features a regulation-size basketball court with locker rooms for players. The court can be rented for P1,800 an hour without air-conditioning.

The second floor houses the Uratex mattress showroom, which we have yet to visit. The third floor is where you can find the Playground, where the coolest basketball court in Manila can be seen. Stores like Terminal MNL, We Legendary, Progress, Unschooled, and Secret Service can be found on the fourth floor or the Deck.

Finally, the basement/parking lot is where Bunker and the OBEY flagship store is located. The original art featured above is by Shepard Fairey. If you do not know who he is, he is the artist who created the Obama Hope poster.
The Ronac Art Center is located at Ortigas Ave., Greenhills, San Juan, Metro Manila.

The House From The Heavens

2011-01-26T18:06:00.002+08:00

Last December we were invited by one of our dear friends to share one of her lifelong dreams - a beautiful home they can now call their very own which makes it really special. Shades of blue clearly dominates the house's facade and very interestingly integrated in its interiors. One website claims that the color blue can be strong and steadfast or light and friendly. We think it's spot on and our friend would concur.

She shares, "I had the chance to see the house in October for the first time. I was so thrilled I didn't know which part of the house I should take pictures of. It was bare then but I was raring to live in it especially when I saw my room."

The use of bricks to line her windows was brilliant. It provided a respite from the cerulean vibe.

Inside, the color cream and a cornice was used to separate the lower part of the wall.

Her kitchen speaks of abundance and happiness. Adding windows was a smart move as it allows more light in negating the use of unnecessary energy.

The receding ceiling gives an impression of more vertical space.

Clockwise: Family nook at the second floor; owner's bedroom accented with side tables; (we love her) staircase

She adds, "Believe it or not, it's my first time to have my very own room. When I came for vacation last December, it was already furnished. It was on Christmas when it finally sunk in that this is finally our own. With the presence of Christmas trimmings, fare, gifts and family, it was just the perfect timing."

As its dominant color suggests, her house is definitely a gift from the sky.

Contest: Starbucks 2011 Planner

2011-01-26T15:58:00.005+08:00

It's a month late but we'd like to throw this one in for you. Just tweet OR share this entry on Facebook and leave a comment here with your name. Please make sure you leave a comment. We'll randomly pick a winner and ship it anywhere in the Philippines! Contest ends on February 5, 2011; 12 midnight. Here's to an exciting 2011!

Baby, Light My Fire

2010-12-22T15:47:00.004+08:00

I have trouble sleeping at night. I'm too scared to turn the lights off, and leaving the light on disturbs my sleep. I tried using a night light before, but the shadows in my room bother me when I suddenly wake up in the middle of the night (yes, I'm a big baby). A table lamp probably will have the same effect, but I still want one especially because I like to read before I go to sleep. Table lamps are also a little bit brighter than night lights, so maybe that will lessen the shadows that loom once you're tucked in bed, ready for slumber.

So again, I have been trolling the Internets for different table lamps. Here are a few that caught my attention.

Photographer's Taks Lamp, $99, Pottery Barn

I don't care what they say about Pottery Barn! They have a lot of cool products especially this photographer's lamp, which is adjustable. This is a perfect lamp for boys too!

Briana Glass Table Lamp Base, $99, Pottery Barn

I love the combination of the glass and the light floral print here. It's so feminine!

Brentwood Table Lamp Base, $100, Pottery Barn

I want to own a distressed lamp similar to this one. Based from the picture though, it's too obvious that the lamp is not naturally distressed, so if you can find a nice vintage-looking lamp in an antique store or a flea market, it would be much better!

Eva Colored Glass Table Lamp, $99, Pottery Barn

Again, I like the glass base of this lamp, but it will probably look better in your living room than in your bedroom.

Fifties Flying Saucer Lamp. $95, vintagelooks.com

For some reason, this simple lamp caught my attention. I think I like that it reminds me of the Brady Bunch and Mad Men when I look at it, although both shows are set in the sixties, not the fifties.

Hardback Book Lamp, $130, etsy.com

Well, the only thing I can say about this lamp is that it's so very cool. I'm not sure thought if the light is sufficient enough for reading, but it's still an interesting piece. Maybe you can display it in a bookcase instead.

Captured Butterfly Lantern, $55, etsy.com

I like the idea of a ball jar as a lamp, but I'm not sure about the butterfly though. I think seeing the shadow of a big insect will not be too pleasing when you're about to go to sleep.

Warm Orange Gourd Art Lamp, $125, etsy.com
This is a very nice lamp if you're room has a gypsy theme or something very colorful and eccentric. At the same time, it will also be a nice focal point to a room where the the colors are muted and the decor is not too busy.

Christmas Time Is Here

2010-12-19T11:13:00.009+08:00

Hello, ladies and gents! Mr. Onika is off in an island somewhere, sunning his perfectly chiseled pecs, so I will be taking over for the meantime.

I know this post should’ve been up weeks ago since you’ve all probably finished your Christmas decorating. But for those of you who like to do things at the last minute, here are some ideas for you.

We’ve searched the wonderful world of etsy.com and found some items that we love, love, love!

Vintage Style Floral Christmas Lavender Sachet Pillows Set of 3 $12.00

We love these pillows because it's Christmasy, but you can still use it all year round!

Christmas Pine Cone Wreath, $35.00

Wreaths are a must-have for Christmas. Although green wreaths are okay, we suggest using unique wreaths made of other materials and colors.

Holiday Berry Wreath with Burgundy Bow, $45.00

Christmas tree embroidered ball, $19.00 each

These Christmas balls are so pretty, but they are also pricey. I suggest looking for something similar in design. A lot of stores sell glass ornaments nowadays, which looks really magical once you light up your trees.

Whimsical Ornaments Cups and Saucers for Four, $38.00

After a heavy Christmas lunch, serve your coffee in these cute cups and saucers!

Parisian Chalkboard Blackboard, $10.50

Serve your Christmas dinner or lunch in style by writing the menu on these pretty little tray/chalkboard. It's also magnetic.

Christmas Toile Stone Coasters, $20.00

Who doesn't love Toile de Jouy prints? Like the pillows above, this is also perfect year round!

Turquoise Distressed Pedestal Cloche, $36.00

If there's one thing I love about Christmas, it's the freshly baked goodies on the table on Christmas morning!

Clothespin Clips, $3.50

Use these lovely clothespin clips to hang your Christmas cards on the wall or on top of your fireplace if you have one!

What's Up North?

2010-10-12T02:22:00.000+08:00

Now where might this be? Keep posted.

PEARL FARM IN SAMAL DAVAO

2010-08-08T09:50:00.003+08:00

Last weekend, we went to one of the finest islands in Davao where a resort sits alluringly atop of it named Pearl Farm Beach Resort.

It was a blissful morning. The July sky was calm and its waters with nary a ripple or wave. The azure sky was back-dropped against the peaceful sea. This is a scene that tourists like us immediately notice while we draw near this enchanting island.

Before we share with you photos of the actual Pearl Farm resort, allow us to give you a glimpse of Marina port. The jump off point going to Pearl Farm is called the Marina Wharf which is around 15 to 30 minutes away from the airport.

An interesting accordion door made of wood and metal.

This is the Marina Wharf's lobby. The port has wi-fi and staff is very efficient.

Interestingly, the port has a pool which leads us to conclude Marina Wharf also offers overnight accommodation (as pictured below).

On the ground floor of this structure is a cafeteria. You may notice how they surrounded it with greens which props up its yellow edifice.

The lobby makes use of a lot of rattan furniture.

Marina Wharf can be a resort in itself but nothing compares to what awaits you at the Pearl Farm. Boat schedules are as follows: 8:00am, 1:30pm, 4:00pm, 6:00pm

The Samal group of Islands consists of nine islands measuring 28,000 hectares. Brimming with marine life, coconut trees, mangroves and exotic animals (while they maintain an aviary), it is a perfect respite from the hustle and bustle of the metro. Its coastline boasts of pristine sand beaches and blessed with a landscape that of a world-class tourist destination.

Pearl Farm Beach Resort is a approximately 45-minute boat ride from the wharf. Its namesake was derived from its previous function. We have been told that a good number of oysters were cultivated for their pink, white and gold pearls. Today, maintaining its charm, Pearl Farm promises a retreat like no other.

These are the Samal houses where we stayed whose ethnic influences are very evident. Other accommodations include the Hilltop Rooms, Mandaya House and Samal Suites.

Their website reads:

Deluxe Accommodation with 73 guestrooms, suites, cottages on stilts perched above the sea and exclusive villas are designed from Maranao and Samal ethnic influences in both materials and form. Inside, decorative details and multihued patterns reflect the islands vibrant culture as inspired by the region's rich tribal ancestry.

Those, on the other hand, are the Samal Suites. The Samal Suites is right beside Pearl Farm's beachfront.

Here's one of Samal house's interiors. Mine was painted blue and its bed framed by two suspended lamps and paddles.

At the break of dawn, my room opened up to this fantastic view of Malipano Island. It's a secluded island located a few hundred meters off Samal Island where seven (7) exclusive villas of the resort are nestled. It offers three holes of golf and at the west side, the island faces a pristine white sand beach.

This is one section of the Parola Bar where you can have some ice cold beer or cocktail while enjoying the company of loved ones.

Further down are the Mandaya Houses. There are several on-going construction in the area most of which are additional accommodations.

It has its own private pool and beachfront too so you wouldn't have to go to the opposite end of the resort where the Samal suites are.

We don't have a very decent shot of the Maranao Restaurant. The Maranao restaurant serves Filipino and International Cuisine with fresh seafood specialties. Since this is an interior design blog we will leave the food review to Mr. Anton Diaz of OAP if ever he gets to visit the place.

While we didn't really enjoy their food, Pearl Farm Davao is definitely a place we'd like to go back to.

Real Home Ideas 5: Small Space Solutions Winners

2010-07-24T00:16:00.004+08:00

Two copies of Real Home Ideas 5 - Small Space Solutions by Real Living

A little less than a month ago we were ecstatic to have received a copy of Real Home Ideas 5: Small Space Solutions. We poured over days in reading every page and we took note of small space tips and tricks. It felt really engaging to flip through its pages - we were vicariously living in each incredible spaces. In that moment we thought we should share this experience to as many of our readers. So today, we are happy to announce the winners of our Small Space Solutions by Real Living Contest.

From @amandafabie - My LP corner. Makes me appreciate things of the past

From @Levy1008 - After a stresssful day at work and doing household chores, our roof deck is the best place to unwind.

From Joanne - From this small space comes big and delicious dishes made by my Mama.

From @jameelamalicdem My favorite space at my Auntie's house: very cozy & homey.Under d stairs is a wide wood sofabed.

From @cablay28 - The Photo was taken on Casa San Pablo I love this space because of the ambiance and serenity.

First, we would like to thank Ms. AA Abjelina of Summit Publishing and Real Living for making this contest possible. Thank you for sharing with us the joy of "living the big dream in a space-challenged home."

Saying Real Home Ideas 5: Small Space Solutions is a great interior design guide is an understatement. Proof of which is one of our dear friends purchased his own copy after reading our entry and loved it. And that we're giving more than two copies. We are giving away 5 which means each contestant will get a copy!

To @amandafabie, @Levy1008, @cablay, Joanne and @jameelamalicdem, please expect an email from us on how to claim your copy of Real Home Ideas 5: Small Space Solutions.

Congratulations! Until the next contest!

P.S. We'd also like to thank the following bloggers who took time to blog about our contest particularly; topazhorizon, manila-life, noguarantee, laptop-in-a-prada, crushwiththeeyeliner, and bluearden.

Siren (Wang-Wang) Free Philippines

2010-07-18T16:14:00.005+08:00

Unlike the last presidential candidate who built an overlapping highway to favor his real estate development projects (and fortunately lost), architect Jaime Lerner conceived and implemented an innovative and cost-effective master plan to alleviate Curitiba's automobile traffic; and fortunately served three terms as a mayor of Curitiba in Brazil and two terms as governor of the state of Parana, Brazil. Since he took office in 1971, Curitiba has seen a development that favored both its people and the environment.

With a population of 2.2 million, 75% of Curitibanos use, perhaps one of the best transit systems known to man, the Bus Rapid Transit or the "Speedybus." It was developed after Lerner discovered that a bus system costs a fraction against subways and light railway systems. Ratio of cost per kilometer was estimated to be $100M: $20M: $2M for subway or metro, light railway and bus respectively.

How It Works
This is not your run of the mill, road-raged driven buses you see in Metro Manila. In fact, it almost looks like a train and travels just as fast with designated platforms. Its clear-tube platforms allows for pre-boarding payment which makes stops no longer than 20 seconds. It is also equipped with very wide doors, wheelchair lifts and ramps that extend well enough to shelter passengers as they step into the platforms. Not too far from these platforms or terminals are convenience stores and post offices.

The Speedybus will take an exclusive x-shaped route primarily to serve two corridors from north to south and east to west. These linear boulevards which the BRT traverses is zoned for taller buildings to ensure a short walking distance to and from their offices or homes and the BRT.

Sustainability
The increasing price of oil has nudged a number of people to use the BRT and some of them attest to having had spent a tenth of what they used to spend on gas and traveling time cut to more than half.

10 private bus companies are commissioned to run the BRT and are paid by the distance traveled to reduce bottlenecks. After a decade, the city will use these buses to more viable ventures like mobile schools.

With a deployment of 1,100 buses per day, the BRT serves 1,300,000 passengers a day or approximately 36,000 passengers per hour. A single fare costs $40 cents.

The city of Sao Paolo has tried to implement a BRT three times but failed because in coming up with this idea, three main factors were considered essential - land zoning, roads systems, and mass transportation.

Consistency
In one of Jaime Lerner's interview published online, he says:

Many times I was asked, "What is a process of changing?" After those 32 years, I can say to make change, a real change, in a city -- or in a state, or anywhere -- you have to have political will, solidaristic view and an equation of co-responsibility. And when you have an equation of co-responsibility, when people understand the ideas, everyone, they know how to share it.

He also shares on CNN that "Every city can improve its quality of life in less than three years. No matter the scale of the city, no matter the financial conditions."

And that is, fellow countrymen, the long term solution to a siren (wang-wang) free streets in the Philippines.

Home Interiors by Greg Kinsella

2010-07-16T00:54:00.006+08:00

London-based interior designer Greg Kinsella has changed the design landscape with his fusion of classical and contemporary style. The Greg Kinsella Design Studio which he founded in 2000 in Chelsea Harbour understands that achieving a perfect home interior design is tantamount to a harmonious interaction with clients. With this value of client relationship and flair for original design, Greg Kinsella has earned the respect and trust of clients from London, Ireland, to the South of France, Spain and beyond.

Our Greg Kinsella inspiration board (clockwise): Oval Murano Glass Lamp; Parrot Fish Table; Ford Sofa

Interior Design Tip: One of the key features to achieve a complete classic contemporary design is to have a high ceiling. If you don't have this feature, you should invest heavily on careful choices of furniture and decor to achieve the look you desire.

Greg Kinsella, a member of British Institute of Interior Design, offers a comprehensive interior design consultation ensuring the highest standards in design and quality within budget and schedule.

To realize that dream space, visit http://www.gregkinsella.com

Real Haus: Lady Gaga Bel-Air Mansion

2010-07-15T02:24:00.007+08:00

Lady Gaga has been reported to be coughing up $25,000 a month for rent for a $5M Bel-Air mansion in Los Angeles. The estate measures 6,143 square-feet (1873 square meters). Its interior has marble floors, two-story French door-secured living rooms, an office cum library leading to the terrace overlooking the pool and an expansive kitchen. House amenities include a resort-type pool and spa with an unobstructed view of L.A.

Quality Natural Fabric by Volga Linen

2010-07-14T23:25:00.004+08:00

One of the highly sought luxury linen suppliers, Volga Linen, weaves 100% flax into fabric with unique drawn thread work embroidery. Volga Linen, a British company founded in 1997, sources their fabric from Russia whose historic tradition of embroidery is revered through Volga Linen's ever expanding range of exquisite pure linen fabric. Flax has been their primary fibre of choice for its unrivaled quality, texture, durability and eco-friendliness.

However young in the industry, Volga Linen proves to be a force to be reckoned with - supplying embroidered linen dressing gowns, bed covers, sheer curtains, damask table linen, and merino wool throws to reputable hotels such as the Rocco Forte hotel group, Astoria hotel in St. Petersburg, Mount Nelson Hotel in Cape Town and Trasierra near Seville, Spain to name a few.

Interior Design Tip: It is best to start with fabrics first and take inspiration from it - from the colors of your wall, bed sheet, curtains to your choice of furniture. This will give an impression as if you hired a professional to decorate your room.

Recently, Volga Linen came up with new colors and designs for their fabric (which is sold by the meter): plain weave fabric in rose taupe and plum, coral and natural paisley, black & white stripe and black & white check. For more choices, you may visit www.volgalinen.co.uk. As a testament of their great customer service, Volga Linen provide tips for superior care for their fabric.

How To Display Your Collection

2010-07-12T15:43:00.006+08:00

Vintage cameras on display using individual boxes

Some of us love a good collection; from cameras to typewriters, from shells to dolls, or just about any tchotchke we can find. But sometimes we find ourselves stumped with a pile of stuff accumulated overtime. Now is the time to give your prized possessions the attention they deserve.

Greeting cards in horizontal and landscape silver frames

IdentifyEach is unique as his or her own collection. As we mentioned, your array of collection can be varied. You have to identify your collection as you have to consider the space (i.e. living room, kitchen, foyer, etc.) to which you wish them displayed.

Typewriters on a ledge to serve as a kitsch divider

VisualizeAs there are many factors to consider, visualization is the key when starting a display of your collection. Do you want it to be a focal point of your room as they can be interesting conversation pieces? Does it deserve a special space in your house like a museum type room where you can invite friends to appreciate it?

Inspirational clippings hanging from lines

IncorporateWhen you have your display tableau in mind, consider the materials and colors to use to execute it with your available space. You can use individual boxes, wires and clips, planks, cushioned bust or mannequins, glass cabinets - the possibilities are just endless. Colors are just as important. It will look more organized if you group items that have the same colors or shades.

Colorful brooches pinned on a cushioned bust

Decorating your home with your collectibles make your space more personal and inviting. It serves as a window to your personality and gives your guests who happen to share the same interest a chance to share their tips and tricks on expanding or displaying your collectibles.

Colorful toys displayed on a chocolate-colored plank

More Collections on Display

Vinyls on the wall make the space look vintage

More camera collectibles

Dearest deers on display

Metal Bed by Tom Faulkner Furniture

2010-07-09T01:18:00.007+08:00

Tom Faulkner Furniture's design aesthetics take cue from Greek figures evident in this decorative metal bed called the Venice bed. It has both the "graceful curves" of Capricorn and the "architectural simplicity" of Atlas as these are the core philosophies behind the craftsmanship of every Tom Faulkner Furniture.

Unlike any metal beds, the Venice bed which is shown here in "silver leaf," ingeniously infuses a careful play of undulating curves which makes it a class of its own.

Clockwise (other Tom Faulkner furniture): Aria mirror; Chelsea chair; Aria lamp; Miro bed

Tom Faulkner Furniture has been in the business since 1995 and roots from Wiltshire, England. Their clients include private homes, famous hotels, restaurants and bars, and offices. To know more about Tom Faulkner Furniture and their services, you may visit www.tomfaulkner.co.uk.

CHARICE'S DREAM HOUSE IN TAGAYTAY

2010-07-02T22:18:00.004+08:00

International celebrity Charice or Charice Pempengco as she is known locally has reaped the fruits of labor as evidenced in her newly built dream house in Tagaytay. We have other celebrity house in Tagaytay, but Charice's home in Tagaytay is built on the love for her mom.

Small Space Solutions by Real Living Contest

2010-06-29T22:46:00.011+08:00

Small space is steadily becoming an option for most city-dwellers as properties' costs continue to rise. While many may dread living in confined spaces, Real Living Magazine thinks otherwise with the launch of their new book, Real Home Ideas 5: Small Space Solutions.

Real Home Ideas 5: Small Space Solutions is a niche lifestyle boutique on print. It gives "shoebox" owners a chance to address their specific space concerns - from creating an efficient room layout to choosing stylish but flexible furniture pieces. Dare we say, Real Home Ideas 5 makes claustrophobia a thing of the past! Let us show you why after the jump.

The 29 Square-meter (Studio Unit) Wooden Wonder

Being future owners of a 30 square-meter condo unit, this is the space we instantly identified with. Having the same lay-out as that of our future home led us to earmark its two unique space-saving features. Just like that, it gave us a clear vision of our space; almost an exact image transposed to a different zip code and time frame.

One Bedroom Affair

Real Home Ideas 5: Small Space Solutions dabbled with space planning as it is crucial to maximizing one's space. The above photo talks about the bedroom (pictured on the opposite side of its page) which, by right placing of walls, has achieved its distinction from the other spaces but still maintaining an open plan feel for the entire unit.

The Two-Bedroom Pandora

It has been said many times that storage plays a vital role in a space conscious home. Real Home Ideas 5: Small Space Solutions gives us a new take on storage - by defining them as makeshift stage for your favorite things by adding strategically placed lights.

Those are just three of the best small homes Real Home Ideas 5: Small Space Solutions book has in store. In fact, those are only part of its first chapter of three chapters. While chapter one allows you to identify a home you can relate to, chapter two is a direct approach on small space tricks like ways how to maximize space depending on floor areas, nifty storage solutions readily available at SM, DIY furniture arrangements, among others. And chapter three deals with guidelines on renovating a small space. Real Home Ideas 5: Small Space Solutions is definitely a great guide towards living the big dream in a space-challenged home.

Real Home Ideas 5: Small Space Solutions by Real Living is now available in bookstores and magazine stands nationwide for P195. For more Real Living online, become a fan on Facebook and Twitter.

Now for our contest!

Contest Rules:
1) Tweet a CLEAR photo of your favorite space, tell us why you chose it as your favorite and tag @houseofonika.
2) Leave a comment here with your tweet and your valid email address.
3) Contest starts on June 30 and ends on the midnight of July 23. The winner will be announced on July 24. The winner will get a copy of Real Home Ideas 5: Small Space Solutions by Real Living.
4) You must be able to meet up around Metro Manila to pick up the prize.

For our CSN and $25 contest, here are the winners:
1) $40 CSN Promo code: Kristine Michelle
2) $25 Paypal Credit: Exotic1
3) $5 Paypal Credit (bonus as first contestant): blogfully

CALLE ARCO IN PAGSANJAN LAGUNA

2010-05-29T17:16:00.006+08:00

In the last four years, the quaint town of Pagsanjan, *Laguna has been a witness to the evolution of an ancestral house on Rizal street - from a nondescript home to what is now a famed bed & breakfast inn that showcases a part of history. One may not easily identify Calle Arco if not for a hanging signage in bright pink. Or you can get your cue from the Pagsanjan arc which is just a few blocks away from it. On the onset, you will be greeted by a washed-out blue door. As you step closer, you can tell right away that Calle Arco's holds the charm of its past albeit not forgotten.

One is immediately drawn to a mirror with an etched image of Our Lady of Guadalupe perched on a side table on the left side of the restaurant. It was a gift to owners and couple Anna and Ronald Cabrega by renowned director Louie Ignacio.

Adjacent to it is the bar and buffet area which is made more interesting by a suspended installation art and its yellow walls.

Using heirloom pieces from cutleries to plates to serve customers, meals in Calle Arco is always a surprise. Tables and chairs are reminiscent of family gatherings as they were also handed down from generations.

Ahh... the pink walls. It is a stark contrast to its old world charm but it definitely gives the restaurant more character.

Did we tell you we're starting to develop a love for chandeliers?

If you prefer to dine alfresco, Calle Arco has set up three tables for anyone who'd care less about the heat. We recommend you take your breakfast there.

Being originally just a home, Calle Arco has only two air-conditioned rooms and one common bathroom. They are very well maintained and the bed is just pure heaven.

We won't even start with their food. But for first timers we highly recommend their sinigang na baka with langka (beef tamarind soup with langka). You may join there Facebook fanpage here.

Clockwise: One of the houses that stood out among the throng of old houses; Pagsanjan arc; garden of the resort/jump-off point for river rafting; "history tablet" of Pagsanjan arc; snippet of an old church; snippet of Calle Arco's chair; one of the old houses; Aling Taleng's decor (famous for halo-halo)

Pagsanjan is known for its river rafting adventure. Along the river, you will see Louie Ignacio's home.

*In a nutshell, Laguna is one of the provinces located in the southeast of Manila.

HOUSE OF ONIKA GIVEAWAY WITH CSN ONLINE STORE

2010-05-22T14:46:00.010+08:00

This blog is celebrating its third anniversary. In partnership with CSN Online Store, we are giving away a $40 promotional code which you can use to purchase items to spruce up your space. We picked four items (as pictured above) which falls under the $40 category. But why limit it to $40 when there are a lot of great items you can purchase from CSN Online Store? This giveaway is open to US and Canada. Not to fret non-American and Canadian residents, we are also giving a $25 prize from our Paypal to yours. Here's how to join!

Here are the instructions on how you can join:

1. Subscribe to our twitter, @houseofonika and be our fan on Facebook.
2. From the CSN Online Store, choose a home decor or kitchen accessory you'd like to purchase if you win and write a blog entry about it. Please include a photo.
3. If you don't have a blog, you can simply tweet the photo plus a comment and tag @houseofonika and @csnstores. OR post a Facebook note/entry.4. Come back here when you are done with the post/tweet and give us the link to your post/tweet through the comments section. Please leave your email address and the country you are in in the comments section as well.
5. If the winner is a resident of Canada or United States, you will be awarded the $40 coupon code which you can use one time in the CSN Online Store. If the product that you want to buy exceeds the amount of the code, you will be responsible for the difference. Promotional code will be applied to all items in your basket. Promotional code expires December 31, 2011

We suggest, you pick the product that has free shipping and the amount is $40 so that you will not spend a single penny. If the winner is not a Canada or US resident, we will send you $25 from our Paypal to your Paypal account.

The winner will be randomly picked through random.org and will be announced on June 5 on this blog. The participants can make their entry beginning May today until June 25.

Good luck everyone!

CHARMING ANCESTRAL HOUSE IN LAGUNA

2010-05-19T16:45:00.003+08:00

Ancestral houses abound in Laguna. Some ancestral houses have maintained its original facade and interiors while others, sadly, have been totally demolished to make way for a new modern house. This house in Magdalena, Laguna has been modified but retained its old world feel from the sliding capiz windows, clerestory, *sectional sofas, narra dining sets and a plethora of other 19th century furnishings as this was built in 1898.

* Watch out for our first ever contest sponsored by CSN stores as this blog turns three years old in June. Keep a look out for our contest rules and mechanics in the next few days. This will be exciting!

HEIMA STORE (AT LRI BUILDING) MAKATI LAUNCH

2010-05-09T09:44:00.007+08:00

One of our favorite home specialty stores in Cubao Expo, Heima, has launched their Makati branch at the LRI Design Plaza last night. Great design and good vibes filled the second floor of the building, you can almost taste it. Interior Decorating has never been this exciting since Heima's introduction to Manila's (hopefully the whole archipelago's) design landscape. Congratulations to partners Bong Rojales and Rossy Anne Yabut!

Heima's Bong Rojales places a selection of vinyls at the booth

AT THE PODIUM

Short by Everywhereweshoot for Heima

Heima on canvas

Apatan (seats four) lounge chair by Heima x Team Manila

*Flow magazines were handed out to guests

Heima Makati @ 360

Address: LRI Design Plaza in Bel Air II, Makati (formerly Reposo)

Directions (from Ayala): From Ayala Avenue, turn right on Buendia (between RCBC Plaza and The Columns Ayala); Turn left on Reposo St. (Landmark is Mapua Institute of Technology); just go straight ahead and you will see the LRI building on your left

*Flow magazine is a bi-monthly arts/design/culture publication under October Eighty Publications

DELIGHT IN BELIGHT LAMPS

2010-04-25T23:21:00.000+08:00

BeLight is the brainchild of two friends Chicoy Estiñoso and Gerry Torres. It was formed out of a vision to create lamps and lighting fixtures that are specialized and alternative. It rests on the principle of solid conceptual frame and Pinoy ingenuity and craftsmanship. What makes Belight lamps more special is that they are hand made and produced in limited editions.

Photo shown above is BeLight's second line for Jt's Manukan (Joel Torre's Bacolod chicken inasal place) at Malugay St in Makati (behind Columns Condo).

Their Multiply site reads:

It is a paean to the Masskara festival. There are five designs that differ in color and shape and constructed in metal and cloth. We wanted to let the lamps dance thus the undulating lines and pod-like shapes. For the color palette, we took our cue from the festival's street dancer's costumes. The lamps are approximately 36" - 42" in diameter and can be changed to all white for those who want a different palette and a more minimalist approach.

This collection, we learned, is called the "Alien Line." While not much information is said about this collection, we're betting it was inspired by the movie War of the Worlds. A science fiction film starring Tom Cruise and Dakota Fanning.

Inset photo: Gerry Torres is an architect and the Dean of the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde School of Design and Arts. Chicoy Estiñoso is a business administration graduate of Silliman University and works in a media planning office. The 70s line, as shown in this photo, is a playful rendition of floor lamps inspired by impressions of the decade and the evocation of the design sensibility that marked the period. Standing at approximately 5ft tall with a painted metal stand and a wire-framed shade wrapped in fabric. The lamps sell for P8500 each and comes in a limited edition of six per design. They can be viewed at Artemis Store at 2245 Pasong Tamo Avenue corner Sabio St. Makati.

BeLight creators accept orders for the lamps at these numbers:
Gerry Torres: 09175778449
Chicoy Estiñoso: 09189088198

You can join their facebook fanpage here.

BANGKAL MAKATI - A TREASURE TROVE

2010-04-25T14:57:00.005+08:00

After reading countless times about that street in Makati notorious for its second-hand furniture shops, together with another friend, we finally satiated our curiosities. It is rather a feat to spot Bangkal for first timers so from Magallanes MRT station, we just took a cab. After a number of turns which seemed like an eternity, we decided to hop off the cab. Luckily, Bangkal street was just around the corner.

There were lots of antiques. A lot of these stuff are still expensive which beats the purpose of thrift shops.

We fell in love with the plates. We learned that it came from England. It sells for, if our memory serves us right, Php700 or approximately $12 each.

We fell in love with these chairs. They make for a great dining set sans the table. It'll definitely give your dining area a lot of character.

Lovely busts and figures. There's one thing we fell instantly fell in love with.

A rocking horse toy! Andy of Toy Story would be very pleased.

Our main goal was to find an ottoman but we were eventually drawn to these charming chests (or bauls). Bauls start from Php4500 - Php7000.

We learned that some bauls start as plain as this and they are taken to a place in Bulacan for inlaying. Those details are actually sourced from carabao horns.

The baul we covet but it was reserved! :(

Bangkal, Evangelista Makati
Most stores are open Mondays thru Saturdays from 9AM to 6PM.

ROMANCE AND ELEGANCE IN A 34 SQM CONDO UNIT

2010-04-24T22:28:00.009+08:00

There are lots of stories behind the acquisition and decoration of this condo unit which makes it more special for our friend, MA. We'd like to categorize her interior decorating execution as modern Tuscan with her evident use of one of her favorite colors - orange. Rustic-themed throw pillows, colorful tapestries, paintings, bowl of real fruit, antique area rugs, leafy plants, flowers, heirloom pieces and a granite countertop.

Tip: MA, got her couch at Sogo furniture shop and had it altered at no extra cost.

She had this wall customized with suspended racks. Soon, she'll have her LCD tv mounted on the wall. Cable wasn't installed yet thus the blurry reception.

What we love about her ceiling is the cove lighting. Her living room, dining area and bedrooms exude that romantic feel most especially when her dim lights are on.

Don't you just love her kitchen? Her cabinets are wenge-finish. For the unfamiliar, wenge-finish is the use of a wenge-colored varnish or paint. Her countertop is plastic laminate with granite stone imitation. The use of plastic laminate has become popular not just because of its cost but also if its low maintenance. Her kitchen air-filter hood is another item we love. It merely filters the air so it doesn't require an exhaust. Cool eh?

This is the view from the south. Notice how her kitchen backsplash make the unit seem a lot larger. Having mirror as backsplash is one of the wisest decisions she has made in decorating her space. On the bottom right is her automatic washing machine, a perfect appliance for condo living.

MA, follows the Feng Shui principles. She told us that her bathroom is the auspicious space in her home. An auspicious space is something that gives the home luck and fortune. However, the toilet bowl negates this as the flush acts as a vacuum. Fortunately, Feng Shui also has a way to counter this by placing a red rug, pebbles on top of the tank and a red wall. In her case, she used a red shower curtain instead. Another tip for Feng Shui followers is to place a mirror directly opposite of a water source like faucets.

Now the bedroom. She used a daybed and covered it with rich fabric. It is such a heaven to lounge on her bed.

Not in these entry are her closets, false walls and her home office. Her home office functions as a guest room, storage and clothes-drying area. MA achieved all this through research via the internet and interior design magazines. More than anything else, MA proves that nothing is impossible with hard work and dedication.