DLS-CSB students upgrade orphanage

WITH the goal to create a conducive environment for healing and growth, a team of young undergrads renovated and refurbished the social service hall of Asilo de San Vicente de Paul, a centuries-old non-profit children's home in Paco, Manila.

Founded in 1885 by Sister Asunción Ventura, Daughters of Charity, the first Filipina to establish an orphanage in the Philippines, the home is widely admired as a refuge for abandoned and disadvantaged children. It has since expanded to serve the indigent, the sick, and the elderly.

Dubbed Kandili, which stands for «to care for and provide support,» the makeover project of the Interior Design Program students of the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) reflects the institution's mission to serve as a «haven of hope» for its beneficiaries as it transforms the lives of the affected.

Under the mentorship of educator Dr. Randy Pabona, the Kandili team was comprised of Monica Lorenzo, Julianne Magat, Mark Ian Papa, Cammy de Guzman, Moira Ramiro, Micah Casugbo, Aevan de Jesus, Joey Mae Perez and Emilio Flores.

«Social services play an essential role in addressing the challenges faced by individuals and families in difficult circumstances,» the students explained. «It aims to protect the vulnerable and marginalized by offering assistance and resources to empower them and be self-sufficient.»

The budding innovators utilized a color scheme of vibrant palettes to foster calmness, optimism and productivity.

Human-centered design solutions were adapted to positively influence the mood, cognition, and behavior of individuals during counseling.

To foster a sense of privacy during sessions, the consultation area was converted into cubicles with partitions. A multi-purpose conference nook was likewise established to accommodate meetings and group discussions.

Ergonomic office chairs were provided to ensure comfort.

Children's well-being

The center was also refurbished with custom and modular furniture pieces to maximize the space and cater to additional and dedicated storage compartments. The team also provided an organized office for the staff.

With the well-being of children in mind, the elements feature round edges and an eye-catching