A medical facility inspired by origami

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).

Interior designer Donna Angelique Bihasa drew inspiration from origami, the traditional Japanese art of folding papers, to transform them into decorative figures and shapes, characterized by their 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 alumnus 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 towards healing is crucial.»

She expressed her hope that the space «will offer comfort, safety, and encouragement to each person who enters… to serve as a gentle reminder of their strength and resilience and nurture an environment where they feel supported as they heal.»

Her proposal topped the 20th Estilo De Vida (EDV) Competition, touted as the Philippines' premier interschool interior design contest, and serves as a creative stage for young artists to prove their mettle to industry professionals and contractors. She garnered P150,000 cash incentives for emerging as the grand prize champion.

Launched by businessman Jorge Consunji in 2004, the annual tilt was co-organized by Philconstruct Events, Exhibitions and Conferences Corp. (PEECC), the Philippine Constructors Association (PCA), and the Philippine Institute of Interior Designers (PIID).

The contestants were required to envision multifunctional and efficient environments for a 28.8-sqm container van clinic and another 24.5-sqm clinic. These places would serve as protection units for abused women and children to aid their recovery process. The design had to include a waiting hall, consultation and physical examination areas, kids' play stations and comfort rooms.

Bihasa said that each fold symbolizes progress, and in the end, these small steps build into «something truly beautiful — a reflection of each survivor's journey and