NEVER TOO SMALL: Film Director’s Tiny Urban Oasis, Manila - 35sqm/376sqft

[@avengerwidow9]

that mirror really did make the space bigger, i almost thought it was an archway leading to another room lol

[@AussieWanderer.]

Me too! I was sure that was the doorway to the kitchen 😂

[@bettenotap4791]

I had to go back to find it, I thought it was a doorway!

[@jacquelinesinek8231]

I love the design. It's very practical yet stylish and the colour scheme is very calming.

[@environfrndly]

Very true! It amazingly transformed the appearance of the limited space.

[@janetgriffin7779]

Same!!!

[@jessisoffline]

I love how expressive the colours are in this apartment through the furnishings and finishes, but not in a way that is intrusive. More in a warming and articulate way. Beautifully done.

[@gus473]

The bathroom color design is especially nice (and looks easy to clean)! 😎✌️

[@rocketmansapprentice]

I'm amazed by how much functionality the designer managed to fit in this space 👏; the bathroom even has a washer/dryer, there is enough storage (for one person) throughout the apartment, this type of open plan design allows for enough space to entertain comfortably, and the bedroom is sizable. 😎Wow!!

[@drlnmrdn]

Being a Filipino and finding out this is located in the Philippines is really shocking. I would like to see more of this in the future!!

[@AussieWanderer.]

❤️🇵🇭

[@derekdiez5494]

I've been following NTS for years, and I'm delighted, they've featured one form the Philippines now, and it's well designed too.

[@andreafruelda]

i was surprised too!

[@linprott9732]

Shocking?

[@loraynecaburubias9079]

Just the 2nd time that I saw I well-designed small kitchen in Filipino design. Well done, color scheme and lay out.

[@schauzeit]

Studio apartments in Manila are notoriously small, and this one with an alcove for the sleeping area really makes a huge difference. Well done, Ate Architect!

[@angelicationgson4785]

I'm so happy the Philippines finally gets featured in NTS!!! I'm a fan of this channel since the early days and I've been inspired by so many designs featured in your channel. Manila being featured meant that my ideas are possible here 😭 So, thank you!

[@el_micha]

It is nice to see designs from all over the world instead of just a few countries! It really broadens the experience since the cultural heritage, people's needs, their ways of living and designers approaches are very different in other parts of the world. Best regards from Germany

[@lilnxthie]

Same thoughts!! They made us proud! 🤍

[@gorjaz]

Yes!!!!! And more of this, NTS, please 🙏🏼

[@Alicia-ij6gt]

I am happy this channel has entries from all over the world, too. It’s truly cosmopolitan and helps us have an insight into how people really live. The comments help, as people acknowledge how typical or atypical the case studies are for their regions. Cheers from Sydney.

[@timepi437]

It’s lovely seeing small spaces that actually look like homes, warm and lived in, not just display homes.

[@BlackPrintBK]

This is one of the best designs on the channel. Not overengineered at all and works flawlessly.

[@altaron]

I've seen a lot of mirrors used to give the illusion of more space, and it usually works well. This curved one is the first that had me do a double take every time I saw it. It actually looks like an archway to another room. Very well done. I think the fact that the polycarbonate sliding closes fully but can't fully open because the dimensions are ever so slightly off are not a problem in every day living. Would still drive me nuts every time I use it. It is factually a very small compromise but it is astonishing how much such a detail can rub you the wrong way,

[@timepi437]

Often works really well on wall adjacent to window. You just need to take into consideration where direct sunlight shines in. Always think about what it is reflecting from main viewing location. You don’t want it reflecting a messy sink or toilet, for example.

[@Ji-wz7ys]

i could easily live there! small apartments can easily feel clutterede and claustrophobic. this apartment is well devided, open, airy and light. and the designer somehow managed to make it cozy and stylish as well. amazing!

[@tarabrightstar]

I love how practical and yet aesthetically beautiful this is! Very well done.

[@leib_niz]

Really love how they play and mix the colours in the bathroom, it's really well put out!

[@kierand9410]

Strong design expression in the flat for sure.

[@justinirons4831]

Wow! Finally a Filipino home on NTS! I’ve been a subscriber for several years already, and seeing the Philippines being featured in the channel makes my heart flutter. 🇵🇭❤ And setting aside my bias, I must say that the featured space is MAGANDA!!!

[@Alicia-ij6gt]

Yes, it’s a good one.

[@catdad_glen]

I was really hoping that someday, there will be one from the Philippines on this channel. Such a clever way of using the space. Great work! ❤️

[@alexbonilla1143]

Agree... I watched a couple of videos before using the NTS title. But this one is the legit one.

[@michelestapleton]

This one is fabulous. I think I’d leave the space alongside the bed at normal floor level for access to more storage, but otherwise it’s quite lovely.

[@designunlimited6215]

That's exactly what I thought! 😊 Platforms are great for demarcating zones but if they are not utilised for more storage than was shown, it does seem a missed opportunity. The robes would have offered more storage also if that floor alongside the bed had been lower. Perhaps there was a reason they didnt. I loved some of the other features such as the translucent sliding panel and arched mirror. Nice! 😊

[@grigorisgirl]

That’s the only thing I’d change as being older I would have problems getting out of bed! But if the bed was in same place but the floor was same level as rest of apartment then there’d be even more storage under bed. Loved the whole effect. So calming and relaxing without feeling cramped.

[@michelestapleton]

@@grigorisgirl yes! and the whole wall of storage (closet) next to the bed would've had another 12 or so inches at the bottom.

[@SF-ru3lp]

I did wonder, also about lost storage. I'd have to have the bed on 'gas-struts' so it could lift up. I agree that one would need to be young and mobile to comfortably get in and out of bed. I love the overall design and clever elements, though. G Ire

[@AwesomeNeurons]

this is my first time seeing a filipino featured in this channel, in most of their videos we could only see the architects perspective of their design Im glad we have an interior designer take on their works.

[@melindadouglas1673]

This is a gorgeous, very functional , thoughtful small space. Great use of color and texture to add personality. It’s also warm and cozy. As an American who used to live in Utah and have been to the Sundance Film Festival many times, I enjoyed seeing the print in the bath!

[@b3blueblue]

I love the color palette. Clever ideas all throughout the space.

[@halfon87]

The mirror is really great :) Thought there was an extra room

[@davezdgalmancornelius6388]

Finally an episode featuring a small space from my country.

[@danaaronhernandez5051]

Yes me too. I've been waiting this for so long. 🇵🇭❤️👍

[@CreselliRoss]

same ❤❤❤🇵🇭

[@derekdiez5494]

​@@danaaronhernandez5051 me too, and it's well designed as well.

[@janggo7440]

I've been a NTS fan for a long time now. It's nice to finally see Filipino designs here because, technically by NTS standards, homes here are all small/tiny. So there is a lot of opportunity to showcase and be inspired by small home design.

[@marlonaguinaldo4839]

great idea for using mismatched chairs as it made the space looked effortless in terms of the design. together with the tv console, it gave the feel that the pieces were collected over the years. love that those furnitures provided warmth and neutralized the "modular" feel of the kitchen, the shelves and bedroom divider.

[@lahelalala]

Oh hey, a feature from Manila! 😍 I lived in Mandaluyong before. If you live in a very busy city, homey is definitely a huge plus for an abode. I can imagine all my stress melting away in a space like this. It's amazing how the designers were able to mix art with functionality and still create spaciousness. Amazing work! I especially love the "hidden" bathroom door concept and the lighting design.

[@martynsylvester5102]

The simplicity of this apartment is what makes it so special.

[@thomas351]

one of the best episodes I have seen ...sleek modern clean ...comfortable and homey ...very livable

[@gab_4792]

love that a Philippine space is finally featured on the channel! 🎉😊

[@miatarraf3414]

This is not only gorgeous but functional. She did an excellent job

[@Davao420]

Omg, I've been a fan of NTS since forever, and I love that they're featuring something from my home country.

[@DJTruntz]

This is my favorite one from all the Philippines submissions thus far. I just love how spacious the living + sleeping area feels, and the placement of the TV to be naturally seen by both areas is chefs kiss.

[@SF-ru3lp]

The design is ingenious when you see the open square space you started with! The interplay of so many light-creating, space-enhancing yet space-defining aspects is truly prize-winning here! On top of that, the plethora of apparently simple decor choices make this apartment an extremely sophisticated yet disarmingly 'flowing' space. I normally don't like my bed 'on show', but it is fairly well hidden between room divider, allowing the light to flood into the living area from the bedroom window. I love the polycarbonate sliding door and how it firms a decor element with the open shelves (I will borrow this idea, please!) combined with the lighting strips, latted wooden back of units and fluted glass - sumptuous, yet simple! The wardrobe, display unit and kitchen (including hidden bathroom) are extremely effective and totally clever. I normally don't like dark floors or different floor surfaces but your have won me over - works brilliantly. Oh, I forgot to mention how restful and secluded the view was from the bed! I have loved seeing this apartment. Wishing you every well-deserved success! Thank you, Never Too Small for sharing. G Ire

[@jam4448]

Omg finally a Filipino feature!! ANG GANDA. Always thought condos in the Philippines were incapable of so much personality. Turns out you just need a good studio layout and a great designer!

[@marianesimpliciano2766]

I like the color scheme of the apartment it doesn't seem too cold or too warm it's just calm and soft to look at. Also, I like the pop of colors from the decor which is from what I observed in the majority of the apartments shown here in the channel that do not actually incorporate this in the design and sometimes seem a bit flat.

[@thammyvo8559]

This must be my fav episode of NTS so far and probably my first comment on this channel. Job very well done! Love the colours, design, ambience and functionality of the space. Previous episodes some places didn't seem functional, some even cold and the furniture looked uncomfortable to use.

[@user-j_2thaLOmaps]

Great job, Mara. The use of texture was wow! :) What a beautiful feature from my country and even my birth city!

[@thecatlady4832]

my favourite so far. great use of space and materials (textures/colours). very well done!❤

[@Aquachick65]

Totally stunning! Love the texture of materials and colour. What a serene space. Congratulations

[@ArthurBizkit]

Whatever Mara was paid, please double it. She knows her stuff! All round simple effective and purposefully driven choices. Definitely one of my fave ones.

[@simonfraser1491]

I love how Mara raised the bedroom to create a distinct space from the rest of the house.

[@airamaysantiago]

The design of the space was well thought of. It has characters but simple at the same time. It's functional, but the look of the space wasn't compromised, which can be challenging to achieve! Well done!

[@apricotjoy]

I never comment on youtube videos but I'm so happy to see a feature in Manila!! And what a beautiful apartment too!!

[@ephyminh2126]

Wow the use of space without too much compromise and yet not feeling cluttered is amazing here ! Plus the color palet and materials really compliment each other

[@lorslife16]

Am a big fan of never too small many years Just so proud to see project from Manila. I am a Filipina now British BTW. More projects Miss Mara❤

[@renzocano5683]

Gosh! I never knew Filipino designers could also be recognized by NTS! Super love it!😍❤️

[@rooshmookh]

This was absolutely beautiful. So well designed and so many textures and colours, especially in the bathroom, none of which overwhelm one another.

[@tomorrow4eva]

I like how it feels natural but modern at the same time. Excellent use of colours and materials to create the mood.

[@katevanhoudt]

Perfection, Mara Manalo! You've maximized use vs square footage and gave the homeowner tranquility in a busy city. Love the layout, the polycarbonate door and the arched mirror. ♥

[@_MSD75_]

What a great use of the space. I really like the sliding glass door, with the cabinets behind, but also gives an extra 'barrier' to the bathroom, so you're not coming directly out of the bathroom into the living space.

[@michelestapleton]

The repetitive use of lines in the slats, the plexiglass door, the base of the dining table and even the sofa pillows are a nice touch.

[@draganap3241]

This one is excellent. It has everything, dining space,living room, bedroom one could separate with a curtain from living room, nice bathroom with laundry and enough storage. And it looks really lovely. Wonderful!

[@zainabsheikh9402]

For a 35sqm, this is genius❤ beyond genius. The color palette on this place is amazing

[@liswong7787]

The designer is creative and smart. Love the design and functionality.

[@SDFocus23]

Love the layout of everything. One of my favorite apartments I've seen from this channel. It looks way bigger than the listed sq/ft. She did a great job for him. I would be stoked to live in that space.

[@angel91485]

this is probably the best, well designed space I've seen in the channel...its' homy, but not cluttered, beautifully decorated and well furnished to give a luxurious feel..well done!

[@VictorABalan]

I absolutely love this apartment. I would move in right away. Kudos to the designer!!

[@luvnature6962]

Perfect home for a single person and the color and structure of the home is amazing. A timeless home design.

[@TheSushmaHomeSellingTeam]

It's evident that this home is not just a living space but a reflection of the owner's passion for storytelling and design. Cool! 👏🏼👏🏼

[@axcvilla]

I moved out of the Philippines more than 20 years ago and this is the first time I've seen a project from the Philippines featured here on NTS. There are so many great ideas here. I especially love the curvature on the tiles to soften the separation between the zones, the careful and deliberate selection of materials and fixtures, and the shape and size of that mirror (makes it look like a door almost!) I was kind of hoping that the wooden platform could hold more storage like luggage. I hope to see more Filipino designers and spaces here on NTS. Well done! SO WELL DONE.

[@sammysamsam2992]

I've been an avid viewer of your videos and I'm so happy to see a property in the Philippines designed by a Filipina!!!! Wow!

[@jiathewanderingwriter]

This is so practical and beautiful! Cannot believe that so much functionality is pushed into 35sqm!

[@christie4951]

This very well may be my favorite - a great use of space and so practical. I love that every portion the home got just the right amount of space. And I love that although a professional designer crafted the layout, it looks personal and lived in.

[@notoriousfierce]

This should be the standard of every small apartments! GORGEOUS!!!

[@IsabelS_Fuyu]

This is my favourite of never too small! Not only as it's in my second home country Philippines! But also I like how the design of the space is very clean bright and laidback! Especially living in a really busy loud and colourful but chaotic city environment of Manila! This home and living space is such a refreshing contrast to that 🙂

[@chimchim3753]

Never have i thought i would see a Filipino condo in this channel. I'm very impressed. ❤🇵🇭

[@jannerivera3984]

So happy to see a Manila apartment gets featured in NTS 💚 The place looks so much spacious and interesting. ✨ Saving this for future home ideas 😍

[@hellocharlieebarley]

So happy to see a Filipina designer (I'm Filipino myself)! The apartment is beautiful and the small space was utilized wonderfully :)

[@erxvante]

Finally a Manila feature!!! ♡

[@hngnhn310]

I LOOOVE how each space and areas design, color and ambiance reflects the owner (masculinity) well. It makes you want to come home after work right away. This is HOME. 💕

[@jg6241]

I knew from the start that it was a Filipino narrator. Job well done guys! Been a subscriber of NTS for lots of years now.

[@elgienbarera4027]

Wow! Very proud of this episode as a Filipino. Thankfully you've featured a talents/skills of our own.

[@gnaryuekey5743]

Perfectly splendid !!! 🙂🙂🙂

[@juantamad463]

Finally, it's here. I hope to see more of this movement here in my country. so niceee

[@monelmonelmonel]

It'll be a long road in this economy

[@karateana7593]

Simple, tasteful, cozy and very livable, I love it.

[@orapayawan2160]

OMG, as an avid watcher of never too small, it is my first time seeing MANILA on this channel! I have had apprehensions before that this kind of design is impossible with condos here, but seeing this video makes me hopeful that my small dream space is possible here in the Philippines!

[@floralai7187]

The design is modern and functional that make the home looks spacious and warm. Love the color palette in wash room. ❤

[@kokohale]

Finally showcasing a Philippine project. Condos keep getting smaller every year. Videos like this would at least help inspire Filipinos how to better and more aesthetically cope with shrinking floorplans.

[@josephreimarkco9693]

Finally, an entry from the Philippines! This place was well thought out and has great color combinations.

[@JamesRyanGonzales]

Finally an amazing home from the Philippines

[@QuatoMarino]

Another amazing trait is to bring the faux cement wall to enchance the versatility,you should be so proud of your self to turn this to a master piece considering the space given and yet practicality,functionality,escthethic are achieved

[@Janine6564]

I love the lighting in the cabinets,and in the bedroom, which looks so simple but serene. Beautiful home ❤

[@matocv]

The minute she talked, I instantly knew she’s Filipino and eagerly awaited if this is indeed a feature from the Philippines (I didn’t see the title😅). The space well-suited the NTS concept that I never thought existed here. Well done, loved the space. ♥️

[@rosecolouredglasses]

Really well done! The condo unit luckily has a nice square layout instead of narrow rectangular shoebox styles

[@vitortavares5759]

Normally the hi-fi system, namely the speakers are hidden. Here it was possible to see a room lived in a normal way, and how beautiful it is!

[@Umbear]

i love the sliding panel and bathroom.

[@bethvictor1190]

Beautiful and clever. Hats off to the designer.

[@uhpenyen4291]

Thank you, Never Too Small. I've always enjoyed your videos. Please keep them coming. I cannot wait to get your book!

[@patt9117]

Finally a Filipino designer 👏🏻 Very impressive open design!

[@jemma50]

This is one of the nicest small apartments I have seen on this channel. So many of them are so minimalist and with materials that do not look very cozy. They also usually have a distinct lack of colour. This one is lovely. Personally, I would prefer a soft cream colour on the walls instead of stark white, but there is enough colour in the furnishings that it isn't cold looking.

[@michelfortier9563]

What a great use of space. Such a warm, comfortable space. Great job!

[@OlympiaZographosDesigns]

Really lovely. I think the designer is a bit of an artist with her attention to details such as the curved corner of the kitchen floor

[@shanonlicnachan7901]

Been following NTS for years, i got excited when i saw it was in Philippines!

[@nikijay9635]

So bright, airy and well designed. One of my favorites. Bravo!

[@CherryAdora]

Love the sliding door and the transition of floor between kitchen and dining/living area 👏💗 and that wall in the bedroom is a great accent but not too distracting/loud given that the bedroom is simple, giving off that light and airy feel making sure that whoever sleeps in it will have a good (relaxed and calm) sleep.

[@TheKazuyaIrisawa]

Finally an NTS feature from Manila, PH!!!!

[@eloisedricotdagneau3712]

I really like the floor tiles as separator between spaces!! The green is also beautiful and I like the other practical details like cabinets that are open for the beautiful kitchen objects but some that are closed + the additional space under the bed.

[@pedrooliveira3486]

Such a beautiful palette. 😍 The bathroom is gorgeous.

[@lailisima]

Beautiful space, soft, warm, not too minimalist, incredibly smart bathroom solution -- you can't imagine how many toilet next to the kitchen sink I have seen :) Brava!!

[@lauragraceramos]

Finally :) I've been following this channel for a few years now, and so glad to a space featured in the Philippines. Thank you, NTS team for sharing this! Love the space by the way - bright and vibrant yet still warm. (P.S. If you plan to have another book out, hope you can include this apartment in it :))

[@selenapb5243]

This space is simple yet beautiful! Love the texture of the wooden slats and the integrated lighting in the cabinets.

[@angelamozmendoza1869]

First ever episode from the Philippines!! I always wondered how these architectures would fit in Manila. It's nice to see it in my own culture and context of space.

[@1hayes1]

The plant is beautiful. It's like a having a perfect roommate.