"I just really wanted Asian Modern, East-meets-West. The first one was really Balinese, the second was minimalist, the third was a blend of Balinese, Asian, and minimalist," Cynthia explains.
The fusion is even more fitting as it suits the Filipino family. "We live in a tropical country, it’s very humid," she says. "The style lends itself well. It’s casual elegance."
They showcased the best of Philippine furniture with a piece from Evolve Design. The structure is both minimalist and Milanese, but the use of indigenous materials like rattan and raffia adopts a truly Pinoy sensibility. "We find them very attractive but very practical," she adds.
Tropical colors like greens were employed to ensure an Asian feel. The Almarios also chose happy tones but neutralized the scheme with golds, beiges, and creams. The result is very tailored, again, to embody the character of the Filipino homeowner. "They don’t like ornate furniture, no woodcarvings," she says. "They’re well traveled, so they can appreciate that less is more. You don’t have to put in a lot of things to make it look opulent."
The opulence is subtly projected with the use of lavish details, like ox-blood silk by Jim Thompson in the formal dining area. "And we did some panel artwork to simulate a coromandel screen. It’s a handsome room," she says.
The living room also adopted similar elements but the use of a modern setting keep it from being too traditional. Lamps designed by the Almarios highlight the rectangular space.
Symmetry was achieved down to the duo’s selection of artwork and flower arrangements. The cutlery, sourced from Bangkok, also adds to the Asian flair.
Among many highlights, the spacious bedroom is just as impressive. Maximizing the available space, the Almarios included an anteroom which features a lounge chair and coffee table, leading to the bedroom. They chose a subdued gray with the man-of-the-house in mind. "So he’ll be comfortable," she says. "But it had feminine elements like the bed drapes to satisfy both the husband and the wife." The area was decked in rich, taupe wallpaper from Italy. A magnificent four-poster bed lies in the center to accentuate the impressive ceiling height. "We wanted the feeling of comfort," she explains. "It’s big but a cozy room." Another attractive feature of the spacious bedroom is a massive balcony with a view of the clubhouse.
The girl’s room, on the other hand, is just as eye-catching. Almario says that they made sure that all rooms featured wall treatments. This was no different, as it was wallpapered with robin’s egg blue. "It’s a hip room for the girl, tailored and straightforward but also romantic. The finish is light blue as a nice juxtaposition with the previous color," she says. "Everything seems light and airy."
Similarly, the boy’s room, which also doubles as a guest room, is just as chic. Almario admits they had fun experimenting with the retro theme. Extra space for entertaining is also made possible with the media room on the third floor. The addition of a long sofa and table even makes it a suitable study." The color is champagne gold. It appeals to everybody," she says of the versatile area.
Overall, this home attains an uncanny sense of balance–combining indoor and outdoor elements, employing luxury and warmth.
For a private tour of the plush Nusa Dua mansion at South Forbes in Metro Sta. Rosa, call 635-7777 or 631-8855 or visit www.southforbes.com.