'Caring' design enhances wellness in HIV rehab shelter

TO provide innovative design solutions and compassionate care, aspiring Filipino artists renovated the spaces of the Positive Action Foundation Philippines Inc. (Pafpi), a non-government organization that offers medication and other services for people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

Liza Diño at the Office of the Prosecutor of Quezon City on May 25, 2024, with lead counsel Regie Tongol (center) and the rest of her legal team (from left) lawyers Rhinn Rivera, Jhomel de los Reyes, Reden Madrid and JM Cruel.

Established in 1998 by Founding President Joshua Formentera, the HIV shelter located in San Andres Bukid in Malate, Manila, grants free antiretroviral treatment and other support services to individuals with HIV and their concerned families.

Dubbed Project Alpas, the rehabilitation initiative aims to restore the Pafpi facilities into a dedicated home with comfortable and secure furnishings to nurture better wellness and health.

The project was spearheaded by the students of the Interior Design Program from the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) School of Environment and Design (SED).

To ensure the safety of its patients, the Pafpi's testing and recuperating areas were integrated with acoustic padding, curtain screens, with chairs, desks and shelves. These were selected to uphold privacy during confidential conversations.

The working stations were likewise refurbished to accommodate additional storage for important files and documents. The layout of wooden partitions with tables and cozy chairs was created to support flexible productivity.

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The waiting lounge, on the other hand, was designed with accent seats to foster calmness and tranquility among guests.

The center was incorporated with effective ventilation systems and is also equipped with designated sanitary stations to enhance cleanliness and hygiene. Indoor plants were placed to cultivate an eco-friendly experience and stimulate a vibrant and sustainable environment.

Living and dining rooms in 2-bedroom panorama suite.

The team of young creatives was comprised of Athina Ababafha, Kristel Azada, Lyka Bayoca, Kaia Mikaela Berena, Lord Andrei Colby Braga, Mary