MANILA, Philippines—Newly-certified Architect Eduardo Calma has always been consistent with his vision.

Contemporary in approach, he prefers to talk about space rather than objects. After all, with sleek finishes and clean lines, what else do you need?

His colors are non-colors—deep earthy tones from elegant wood veneers that stand out against whitewashed walls and highlight geometric shapes.

This vision is reflected in the two-bedroom model unit of East Tower at One Serendra, the high-rise phase of this development at Bonifacio Global City. The two-bedroom units are about 107 sq m while the two-bedroom suites are 142 sq m.

These units feature open kitchens, spacious balconies, quality fixtures and finishes such as engineered oak plank flooring in the public areas, homogenous tiles in the bathroom and granite counter tops in the kitchen.

Working within these parameters, Calma has designed a space for a startup family, the breadwinner being an architect. Other designers may create a space by lowering the ceiling, playing up with the floor level or using a rug or screen.

To make the most out of a condo space, Calma defines each area with geometric structural elements, extended rectangular frames that also multitask as borders, wall reliefs and shelves. The eye is drawn to these built-in details because of the rich walnut veneer set against the white walls.

He underscores the bare spaces between pieces of furniture and on some walls, which are as important as the furnished areas. The bareness not only highlights the designer pieces—his and some foreign ones—but also gives more breathing space.

Sleek shapes

Calma designed the furniture in sleek shapes, with upholstery in neutral tones in textured natural fabrics. Some of the framing is done in ribbon grain tanguile for textural interest. Some lighting fixtures are artworks in themselves with their artistic details.

He also recommends black-and-white photographs as the new art. In this case, the owner is supposed to be a hobbyist photographer who wants to display his works.

The most interesting part is the child’s room. Calma believes in merely setting up the basics and letting the child develop the theme of the room. The interesting thing is that he installs designer furniture or interesting shapes such as Patricia Urquiola’s paper lamp, Philippe Starcke’s classic ghost chair and the “Algae” wall installation by the Bourullec brothers, which Calma says the child can reshape and pin pictures or post notes on.

Calma’s style is ideal for decorating a small space. When things are arranged neatly and other elements are out of sight, the place feels organized and friendly.