Luckily, 2020 was the unprecedented experience that gave me the time and space to do work I had been meaning to do for years. I spruced up my parents apartment to not only lift their spirits during hard times, but to later leave them in a home that reflected their luminous personalities. My parents, Silvia and Tomás, are a golden aged creative duo (copy writer and graphic designer) who enjoy art, nature, and relaxing at home. When revamping their apartment in San Juan, Puerto Rico, I prioritized their needs and unique style.
The gorgeous artwork and plant life had to be this home’s protagonists. The nature-centered subjects of these paintings and their color palette create a one-of-a-kind collection that gives the apartment its gallery-esque look. My father’s art embellishes the house as well with pieces like the eccentric portrait over the sofa and some bronze sculptures here and there. He is the reason the place has so many lively plants that reach such beauty through his diligent rituals of care.
I began to work by updating all the ventilation and lighting fixtures, painting every wall and the spiral staircase, and tiling the balcony’s wall with a rustic textured rock. The rock tiles feel like an appropriate organic transition between the inside architectural geometry and the outside organic forms on the balcony. To take advantage of the light breeze and sunlight, I added a Yanomami (Venezuelan indigenous people) hand-woven, palm fibre hammock which is now used for comfortable naps in its smooth and flexible texture.
I sanded and oiled every wooden surface to protect them from pests, replaced all furniture damaged by termites, and inevitably learned how to work through the pandemic’s supply chain backups by pivoting regularly from my original plans and learning about new products to use.
I added a lounging area in the rooftop for them and their guests to delight in my dad’s potted garden. I even got the chance to design a new and expand the kitchen, replacing the old wooden one with termite-proof PVC cabinets and a quartz countertop and backsplash (pictures coming soon).
KEY TAKEAWAY
I am a strong believer that what you consume regularly affects your overall health and mindset. This includes anything you consume through your senses — so the food, sounds, smells, textures, visuals, and information you surround yourself with are always affecting you, whether positively or negatively. Mildly or severely, you are affected. Since home is where people spend most of their time, a harmoniously designed home will cater for its inhabitants to feel at ease. It’s important to note is that creating your own sense of harmony is what matters most when designing your home. Following design trends and color schemes can be helpful guides, but ultimately only you know what resonates with you and your space.
SABRINA SORONDO 