One Capitol

 MANILA, Philippines – There are many advantages in choosing to live in a condominium set-up. Because of its size (on the average, 22 sqm to 60 sqm), condo units are usually low maintenance and has various lifestyle amenities that add to the convenience of the homeowner.

Designing a condominium unit however, needs extra effort. Careful planning is needed when styling a condo’s interior and factors such as wall colors, furniture, appliances and furnishings should be meticulously considered.

“It’s a good thing that interior design and industrial design have merged, and that those in the business of developing homes recognize the need for two experts to work together.

This makes it easier to present homes or condo units that are already stylish and beautiful to begin with, so it wouldn’t be hard when buyers begin designing the homes themselves,” said Ana Marcelo, PTR Properties’ in-house interior designer.

This is the design principle she applied when she arranged the model units of PTR projects like One Capitol Condominium and 2/7 Residences, both located in Brgy. Kapitloyo in Pasig. For her, designing a model unit is a challenge when it comes to delivering homes to buyers. For her, this is a crucial chance for companies who wish to convince buyers that their product is the perfect home to move into.

Ms. Marcelo, who used to reside in Kapitolyo, recognizes the suburban appeal of the community. From this, she was able to come up with an urban and classy home ideas that she believes would be perfect for PTR’s mid-rise projects.

“When we started going through the ideas of presenting the units, my idea was not to just lean on the Zen-style but also to see their homes as a ‘classy-chic’ place where traditional pieces and furniture can be used and still look updated. I helped with choosing which tiles to use, or what color should the wall be painted. This way, when unit owners move in, they will already have an idea of what the general outcome of their home would be,” she said.

Ms. Marcelo designed the model units to imbibe a minimalist appeal – units were painted mostly white and also made use of light-colored tiles. Choice furnishing were placed around the living room and bedroom areas to highlight specific spots such as the unique window setting of 2/7 Residences.

“The idea was to present future residents with a simple, yet stylish home to begin with. We want them to have an idea of what they can do to put that ‘personal touch’ into their home. My job is to help them come-up with suggestions which can add character to their space. My style is to suggest the use of period pieces, which when given new life through upholstery for example, will come out not only avant-garde, but urban as well – perfect for a condominium lifestyle!”

PTR Properties Inc. targets young professionals and OFWs as their main clientele.