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One good way to elevate a simple house design is to put native touches on it. While avoiding the cookie-cutter look, this move dresses your space with visual reminders of heritage and tradition, which makes it all the more aesthetically enticing. If your home is already embracing a contemporary style, imagine the beautiful ensemble of modernity meeting vintage. From a simple small house interior design, it becomes an elegant space reminiscent of a unique, dynamic culture.
While there’s no singular definition of modern Filipino interior design, there are several elements that set it apart from other styles. Introduce these features in your space to give it a unique native flair:
For Floors: Vigan Tiles
By their name, these earthenware tiles came from the historic city of Vigan in Ilocos Sur. Having them in your home would remind you of the old-world houses on the cobblestone street of Calle Crisologo. While giving a rustic feel to the space, Vigan tiles offer a sophisticated touch that perfectly complements your home’s modern atmosphere and completes the modern Pinoy-style interior design. What’s more, the tiles’ burnt orange color exudes a sense of warmth, making the room more inviting.
Explore different shapes and sizes of Vigan tiles. You don’t have to be stuck with the average squares. Octagon shapes, for one, create better visual interest. Once your Vigan tiles are installed, don’t forget other floor treatments, such as rugs and carpets. Use locally-produced materials and take that Filipino house interior design to the next level.
For Walls: Stone Materials
Ara-al slates are common in modern Filipino homes. While you would often see them outdoors as part of exterior facades and landscaping, they’re also used in interior walls, as a way to create an accent. They can serve as a backsplash or a focal point in the living room, which is why they also work for condominium interiors.
Depending on the color scheme you chose, pick among gray, brown, and copper hues of ara-al slates. Decide what kind of finish fits the mood of the room. Treat these materials as your creative, modern take on the bahay na bato interior.
For Ceilings: Capiz Panels (and Lights!)
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No Filipino-inspired home is complete without capiz materials. Usually, they’re in windows, giving off that provincial feel in the Pinoy house interior design. But capiz isn’t just for windows. Use them as your ceiling treatments.
Install capiz panels to create more visual interest overhead. They can be a focal point in a room, instantly attracting attention. Complement these with capiz shell chandeliers. Being translucent, they efficiently diffuse light, illuminating the space better and making the style of the room shine further. These lighting fixtures work even in tiny spaces, so incorporate them in your small townhouse interior design. Philippines-based artists have different designs for capiz lights that are worth checking out.
For Furniture and Decor: Wood and Ceramics
With the abundance of forests in the country, a lot of Filipino furniture designers use narra, abaca, bamboo, and other types of wood in their products. Having these pieces in your modern Filipino home would not only give your space the ultimate rustic feel, but also a touch of local artisans’ creative genius. Plus, you can count on a sturdy, durable piece that you can enjoy for many years.
Aside from wooden touches, ceramics will complete your modern Filipino house interior design. Find vases and planters made by local artists. Take inspiration from Bea Alonzo’s powder room design, which featured an Ugu Bigyan basin.
For Decor: Handicrafts and Patterns
Use handicrafts for your accent pieces. Carved wall art, coffee table trinkets, and coasters will definitely put a Filipino touch on your space. Add baskets, rugs, and other weaved decor to complete the native look. The souvenirs from your travels from all over the country would also be good additions to your interiors. Don’t let them sit in your closet. Display them in your space.
Pay attention to patterns as well. Filipino artists use unique native patterns, including solihiya, in furniture and decor. If you can have these trays, placemats, or even lamps, they will definitely make your design truly Filipino. Explore different local stores to find affordable furniture in Manila.
Native touches will transform your modern home into a sanctuary of heritage and tradition. Try these interior design ideas on your next makeover to elevate the look of your space.
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