Design tips for all spaces

While a designer's personal taste is often evident in homes he designs for his clients, Francis "Nix" Alañon makes sure it isn't so in his case. He interviews his clients, making sure that their personal tastes are reflected in their homes.

- MONS ROMULO

"Designing homes is something that needs to have some careful planning beforehand," says Nix.

In 2006, Nix started FTA Design, a studio offering interior design consultation. It is now known as Phoenix Home Interiors. In 2011, he founded Phoenix Home, a furniture manufacturing company which is proudly made in the Philippines, particularly in Pampanga.

Last Nov. 9, he opened "Adorned by Phoenix Home," a holiday concept store that will showcase curated pieces in Rockwell until January 2025.

Nix shares with us tips that can serve as a great starting point for those who are looking to start a new home project or wanting to reinvigorate their space.

Get to know the space. Get the exact measurements of the things you want to put in the space to make sure that they fit. It is important to know important details such as the total area of the space you are working with — walls, floors or the distances between furniture pieces. The last thing you want to happen is to have furniture that is too big or too small for your space.