Interior designing for compact condominium units

Because of the independence and flexibility it affords, condominium living in an accessible city location has definitely become an attractive option for the younger generation of homeowners.

It means the freedom to be on your own as well as to indulge in an active lifestyle that thrives on the many activities offered by the city, according to Isabel Berenguer-Asuncion, interior design consultant of Laguna Properties Holdings Inc.’s One Aeropolis in Sucat, Parañaque. Catering to young urban professionals living on their own or starting a family, One Aeropolis units priced from P1 million to P2.4 million are selling briskly.

Trained in Hongkong where condominium living is the only option for most homeowners, Asuncion comments that careful planning and ingenuity have made creating a home in a limited city space a viable alternative. The model unit she designed for One Aeropolis clearly illustrates this. Following are some design guidelines she shares with prospective condominium owners.

Go rectangular and regular. As a rule, rectangular spaces are easier to furnish than square or irregularly-shaped floor areas. Asuncion thus advises homeowners to choose units with conventional spaces. Units with squarish floor plans tend to waste too much space in the middle while units with curvy walls will certainly pose design challenges. An added bonus are units with ceilings as high as those in One Aeropolis. High ceilings, she explains, instantly create a feeling of spaciousness and graciousness.

Up against the walls. Asuncion tends to put furniture against the walls. When you put your focal points against the walls, you draw out the eye of anyone walking into the room and make him believe a room is more spacious than it is, she says.

Pieces that morph. Use multi-functional furniture. A dining table, for instance, can double as a work table and even ironing table while a chest can also be used as a coffee table as well as storage for napkins and other linen. Multi-functional pieces mean less clutter and more flexibility. "Choose pieces that can easily morph," she smiles.

Those interested may view the One Aeropolis model units at Dr. A Santos Ave. (formerly Sucat Road) in Parañaque or call 864-5744 or 788-0951 for more details.