Folding Spaces, an origami-themed medical facility for abuse survivors, was officially turned over to the Women and Children Protection Unit of the Amang Rodriguez Memorial Medical Center (ARMMC).
Conceptualized by interior designer Donna Angelique Bihasa, the design drew inspiration from origami, the traditional Japanese art of folding paper into decorative figures and shapes. The facility is characterized by soft, calming, and warm neutral colors.
“Origami demonstrates that even the most intricate works begin with a single fold. This fundamental step mirrors the initial efforts of those who embark on the journey of healing,” said Bihasa, an alum of the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB). “Just as the first fold sets the stage for the entire origami piece, the first step toward healing is crucial.”
“My hope is that the space will offer comfort, safety, and encouragement to each person who enters. May it serve as a gentle reminder of their strength and resilience and nurture an environment where they feel supported as they heal,” Bihasa shared.
Her proposal topped the 20th Estilo De Vida (EDV) Competition, touted as the Philippines’ premier interschool interior design contest. The competition serves as a platform for young artists to prove their mettle to industry professionals and contractors. Bihasa garnered P150,000 worth of cash incentives as the grand prize champion.
Launched by businessman Jorge Consunji in 2004, the annual competition is co-organized by Philconstruct Events, Exhibitions and Conferences Corp. (PEECC), the Philippine Constructors Association (PCA), and the Philippine Institute of Interior Designers (PIID).
Contestants were tasked with envisioning multifunctional and efficient environments for a 28.8-square-meter container van clinic and another 24.5-square-meter clinic. These facilities, designed to serve as protection units for abused women and children, needed to include a waiting hall, consultation and physical examination areas, kids’ play stations, and comfort rooms.
“This is often the moment when a person acknowledges their pain, seeks help, or decides to take a step forward in their recovery. It is a very big and brave step. Each fold symbolizes progress, and in the end, these small steps build into something truly beautiful—a reflection of each survivor’s journey and potential for renewal,” Bihasa added.
“Everything arises from empathizing. It begins with understanding the users, their lived experiences, their needs, and everything about them. Once done, conceptualizing will enter the process. Throughout this course, extensive research is done to ensure that all choices and decisions are grounded and have a basis because it needs to create results aligned with your vision.”
Joining Bihasa in the turnover ceremony were Benilde School of Environment and Design (SED) Dean Ar. Harvey Vasquez, SED Interior Design Program Chairperson IDr. Katherine Correa, and mentor IDr. Candice Arboleda.
Also present at the event were Medical Center Chief II Dr. Imelda Mateo, professional education and training chief Dr. Romeo Cruz Jr., chief administrative officer Engr. Rodolfo Sedano, Women and Children Protection unit head Dr. Namnama Villarta-De Dios, Allied Health Professional staff officer-in-charge Dr. Rocky Dizon, chief nurse Maria Kristine Portaje, and financial and management head officer-in-charge Junimaro Baculo.
Philconstruct Secretariat and EDV representative Camille Arcilla also attended, alongside PCA president Ronaldo Elepaño, and PCA chief of staff Alec Ladanga.
