Chiara Donatella Elizaga, a third-year Interior Design student of the USC School of Architecture, Fine Arts and Design, bagged the grand prize of the 21st Estilo de Vida Inter-School Interior Design Competition on November 9, 2024, at the SMX Convention Center, Pasay City.

The competition’s theme, “Embracing Memories, Embracing Lives: A Sanctuary for Seniors”, challenged participants to design a specialized Dementia Day Care facility for seniors with mild to moderate dementia. The goal was to create an innovative, supportive space enhanced by Augmented Reality (AR) technology, where seniors could feel safe, engaged, and empowered.

Elizaga’s work, “Casa Berde” (above) was chosen as the best design, standing out among 200 entries, as a sanctuary of comfort, designed to feel like the home of a dear friend. With its inviting spaces, natural elements, and personalized touches, it creates a warm and welcoming environment that fosters safety, companionship, and well-being, allowing seniors to truly thrive.

The award was presented at Philconstruct Manila 2024 and Elizaga received PHP150,000, while her mentor, IDr. Hermie Ray Oplado was awarded PHP50,000.

The 21st Estilo De Vida Interschool Interior Design Competition was organized by the Philippine Constructors Association (PCA). It is considered one of the country’s biggest inter-school interior design competitions and has become “one of the must-see events for design enthusiasts and is a formidable platform for young designers to test out their skills.”

With reporting from IDr. Hermie Ray Oplado, Department of Architecture