The heart of the home: Design values inherited from our mothers
They say a mother’s love empowers the impossible.
For five interior designers including myself, that love became the foundational blueprint of their careers. Through curated memories, quiet hospitality, and meticulous care, their mothers did more than raise children—they nurtured the values that now define some of the most soulful spaces in the industry.
Discipline and creativity
For me, design is deeply rooted in the balance of whimsy and order.
Inspired by my Mama Juliet’s fun and supportive spirit, I was granted the creative freedom to view the world through a lens that ventures far beyond the ordinary.
This artistic liberty is anchored by a discipline learned from her years as an overseas Filipino worker managing households abroad, where she developed a rigorous standard for maintaining spaces that are not only pristine but sensory in their excellence.
Peace over pretense
In the work of IDr. Bambi Jose, one finds a profound focus on hospitality and well-being.
Her mother’s philosophy was simple: “There was always room for one more at our table.” This warmth translated into a design language centered on comfort and “peace over pretense.”
For IDr. Jose, care is found in the small details—perfectly folded linens, natural light that hits just right, and chairs that prioritize the human experience.
Nurturing the soul of a space
IDr. Markee Madolaria views home as a feeling rather than just a location, a lesson learned from his mother, Daniela.
A nurse by education, her professional sense of order and nurturing extended into their family life. She would rearrange furniture with both purpose and creativity, ensuring every element—from crochet pieces to fresh curtains—was “just right.”
Today, IDr. Madolaria favors creating spaces where people feel connected and understood.
Design as a narrative
For IDr. Migs Alcid, design is the ultimate form of storytelling.
Growing up with Mommy Analou, who worked overseas, she learned that a home is more than its coordinates. She watched as she curated their home to bridge the gap of miles through collected pieces that narrated their travels.
Today, IDr. Alcid views her practice as her mother’s legacy—a belief that every space should foster a culture of care toward the team, the client, and the self.
The reflection of the self
IDr. Aaron Paglicawan carries the wisdom of his Mama Helen into every project. She taught him that the way we care for our environment is a direct reflection of how we care for ourselves and others.
Her practical advice—that decluttering is the essential first step toward a home that feels peaceful and full of life—remains a cornerstone of his aesthetic.
The author has more than 20 years of expertise in designing interiors for homes, offices and retail spaces. Experience his designs by contacting him at +639178860983
