"Super masayahin kaming dalawa (Both of us are super cheerful people.). Naku our family and friends can attest to that. As in we love not just to smile but to laugh!" says the homeowner of the sunny, easygoing disposition she has in common with her husband. The couple, married since January last year, also shares the same brand of temperament with their starter nest. For what could be perkier and friendlier than happy patterns--gingham, polka dots, chic damask--and wholesome pastels?

In choosing where to live, they swiftly decided on a mid-rise property that is just a stone's throw away from the husband's workplace. In picking out a design consultant who would work on the interiors, however, they went by the wife's sister's suggestion: Elle Uy. Since the couple had to live in Saigon, Vietnam shortly after the wedding, they needed a pro to interpret the design they wanted and to focus on the construction of the semi-furnished unit. Though Elle was in charge of decorating, the couple took active participation in it by sourcing some of the items, a few of which were from Vietnam, "like the pillowcases, [decorative] bike, and materials we used sa kitchen."

Check out how their love nest turned out below:

(First published as "Love is in the Lair" in the "Real Home" section of Real Living Philippines' Jan-Feb 2012 issue. Words by Kathleen Valle. Photos by Vincent Coscolluela. Pictorial Direction by Joanne Enriquez-Bohol. Adapted for use in Female Network.)