Dreams and Concrete Ambitions

My journey with interior design began not with blueprints, but with crayon sketches of dream houses that filled the margins of my notebooks. Though initially captivated by the idea of grand architectural structures and shaping a building's form from the ground up, the grand scale of architecture, while impressive, felt distant.

It was the intricate world of interior design that ignited my true passion. Here, the potential to transform a space and creativity knows no bounds. Walls weren’t just barriers, they were canvases waiting to be adorned. Every detail, from the flow of a space to textures and colors employed, contributed to crafting a captivating story, an experience for those who inhabited it. This intricate dance of functionality and storytelling resonated deeply within me, and this was what truly set my soul and aspirations ablaze.

Manila Mosaic: The Crucible of Creativity

My formal education started with venturing the halls of the College of the Holy Spirit in Manila, Philippines. Sparked by a lifelong passion for design, I earned a Bachelor’s Degree, majoring in Interior Design in 2002. This path proved invaluable, laying a strong foundation in design principles and equipping me with a keen eye for the technical know-how to translate abstract ideas into functional realities.

Equipped with my well-earned design skills, my design odyssey began surrounded by richly talented individuals under the roof of Focus Global Inc., who influenced and helped honed my skills as a Senior Sales Designer and Showroom Officer-in-Charge. Curating spaces with premium furnishings from renowned brands like Ethan Allen furniture, SieMatic kitchens, Sub-Zero, Wolf and Miele appliances. Each project was a puzzle, a challenge to create a space that reflected the client's personality while maintaining a sense of flow and functionality. The joy on their faces as they walked into their transformed havens fueled my passion further. The ability to bridge the gap between abstract ideas into tangible spaces became a hallmark of my approach to every project.

Toronto: A New Canvas, New Horizons

However, life, like a well-designed space, is full of unexpected turns. A move to Toronto, Canada presented new opportunities and design sensibilities.

Upon relocating, I pursued further studies in Interior Decorating at Humber College. This program further honed my skills in hand sketching, manual and computer drafting, digitally generated presentations combined with knowledge of the business aspect and provided valuable insight into mechanical, electrical, plumbing services and building methods essential to launching my career and navigating the Canadian design industry.

While still a student, I gained practical experience working at an esteemed company, Ginger’s as a Sales Associate. Upon graduating with a Diploma in Interior Decorating in 2016, I embarked on a new design adventure as a Kitchen Designer for Porcelanosa, Bellini Custom Cabinetry, and Multiflex Custom Cabinet & Millwork Solutions. These experiences broadened my horizons, exposing me to a diverse range of styles and materials. Each project presented a unique challenge, pushing me to innovate and adapt, further solidifying my design expertise.

Sosna Inc. and the Symphony of Design

Today, I find myself a proud member of the talented team at Sosna Inc.. I am truly inspired being a part of a team so dedicated to exceeding client expectations for seven years now, and still encourage me to continue to explore the boundless possibilities of interior design.

At Sosna Inc., I work in helping my clients who have outgrown their homes fall back in love with them. My design philosophy is centered around collaboration, and at Sosna, the collaborative spirit extends beyond just the clients. Working in unison with a fantastic team of professionals within an environment that allows for constant exchange of ideas, experiences, and expertise.

Working with my clients, I believe in the power of open communication, actively listening to my clients' dreams and aspirations. I treat every project as a unique opportunity to tell a story – to capture the essence of the individuals who will inhabit the space, to create a haven that not only functions beautifully but also reflects the soul of its residents. By understanding their lifestyle, aesthetic preferences, and functional needs, I explore possibilities with the employment of proper planning and piecing together finishes and fixtures selection to translate their vision into a reality that will bring joy to them as they step into their newly transformed space - this is when I feel most fulfilled, rewarded and keeps me passionate about interior design.

Bringing Expertise to Life

My experience has fostered a wealth of knowledge and expertise, particularly in my current specialization – kitchen and bathroom design. These spaces are the heartbeats of a home, demanding both functionality and aesthetic appeal. I specialize in creating modern, functional spaces that reflect my clients’ unique style and needs.

I understand that a full kitchen or bathroom renovation can be overwhelming. This is where I step in. Leveraging my design and technical expertise, I can guide my clients through the entire process, from the initial brainstorming session to the final installation. My passion lies in crafting highly personalized spaces that are both beautiful and functional, all within a client's budget.

Technology plays a crucial role in my design process. With my expertise in 2D planning and 3D rendering software, combined with a meticulous eye for detail and a keen assessment of client needs, wants, and budget, I provide design solutions that are not just conceptualized but visualized. Detailed plans, elevations, and 3D renderings help my clients truly envision their dream kitchen or bathroom before committing to a renovation. Staying abreast of the latest industry trends and product innovations is also paramount. This allows me to incorporate cutting-edge design elements while ensuring the functionality and longevity of the space.

My journey, from those childhood sketches to creating lived-in experiences, has been incredibly rewarding. I take pride in translating your dreams into reality, transforming spaces into reflections of the souls who breathe life into them.

The Sketchbook Never Closes

The story doesn't end here. The world of design is constantly evolving, offering new challenges and inspirations. As I continue to learn and grow, my sketchbook remains my constant companion, a testament to the unwavering passion that drives me forward.

This is just a glimpse into the narrative I weave with design. To explore the spaces I create, to witness the stories they tell, and perhaps, to be inspired to craft your own unique narrative within your own walls, I invite you to connect with me on Sosna, Pinterest and Houzz.