Balinese-themed enclave

A REJUVINATING RESIDENCE

A home is an abode meant to relax, rejuvenate both one's senses and spirit -- to make one look forward to each new day, where sunlight eases through wide open windows and is reflected as well in the calming waters of the house's pool. Nowhere does this ring more true than at the Nirwana Bali, the newest community to rise at South Forbes Golf City. And it is reflected in the Mansions-wood-finish exteriors all the way to the contemporary Asian interiors as creatively rendered by ace designing duo Ivy and Cynthia Almario.

"We envisioned Nirwana Bali to exude a tropical Asian look. Thus, we used a lot of beige, brown, and gray to convey the resort atmosphere in one's home, and accented these colors with white tones to provide a strong contrast to the dark, woody colors.

To liven the rooms up, we added tropical colors such as red, green, and oranges," narrates Ivy.

The living room uses a lot of natural materials from the center wooden table to the fabrics used for the ultra comfortable four-seater sofas. Large pillows in brown, beige, and green adorn the sofa, and all are laced with tassels for a distinctive Asian feel. Intricate hand-shaped metal accessories from Bangkok and large lamps, also featuring tassels, complete the Balinese "look."

The dining table and chairs have dark wood finishes as well, making guests feel like they're being treated to a sumptuous dinner at a resort. Actually, since they'll be dining from large leaf plates and inhaling the air scented by aromatic candles, dinner time at the Bali Mansions is more of partaking food to rejuvenate one's soul, not just for subsistence.

Upstairs, the couple basks in a red bedroom that goes with their intense passion for the best in life. Their four-poster bed and its golden red and beige pillows give a sense of royalty. His and hers vanity areas accented by Artemis lamps as well as two lavatories make them excited for the day ahead. Louvre-type cabinets with fabrics for the walk-in closet further give them a feeling of luxury.

The girl's room comes in relaxing tones of light green and fuchsia pink. A square quilted duvet for the beddings is really fit for a princess. Two especially made wood artworks stand guard as she sleeps. The mirror effect, meanwhile, gives much space to the boy's room. A long headboard, in white leatherette, jibes well with the light brown and white motif.

Once seen for its totality, the Coralia model unit offers a relaxing spa-like environment for the family.

The Coralia gives discriminating homeowners that chance to have a daily spiritual retreat. After a hard day's work, moments of relaxation are just a short drive away, to be enjoyed with the entire family.

Rommel R. Orbigo
Philippine Daily Inquirer