"Every time we go out malling, my mom never forgets to visit home stores and dream of a perfect living room, which crushes my heart [because] I could not give it to her," says the winner of Real Living's Real Makeover contest in October 2010, who wants nothng more than seeing her mother smile.

"Our living room adjoins our dining area. They are the center of our daily routine, but they're not relaxing," she says, echoing the family's concern. Indeed, there was nothing calming about an area cluttered with a cabinet full of stuffed toys and unnecessary things, and lacking in flair. That's why even though the family members are generally tidy, their home left much to be desired.

With fingers crossed, this avid Real Living reader tried her luck at the makeover, joining the contest for two successive years. The dutiful daguhter got more than what she bargained for, as interior design consultant Grace Moslares decided to spruce up the family's kitchen and dining area as well!

Click "next" to see the amazing before and after photos.

Get more fabulous home makeover ideas in the April 2013 issue of Real Living Philippines, out on stands now! You can also subscribe to the magazine's digital edition.

Also in this issue:
Beautiful Homes!
RL's Must-Have Guide to Surface Finishes
What's the Hottest Color Today?
Cut Down Your Air-Con Usage!

(First published as "Gift of Gratitude" in the "Real Makeover" section of Real Living Philippines' October 2010 issue. Words and production by Kathleen Valle. Pictorial direction by Coni Tejada. Photography by Jun Pinzon.)



The sweet palette of mauve and white (mixed with black for contrast) is a delightful departure from the yellow-green color scheme. Even the couches are looking crisp in their new slipcovers.


Gallery 7 printed interior design consultant Grace Moslares' inspiration: a Japanese cherry tree artwork by Tanya Solis.



Grace painted the lower kitchen cabinets white to match the new slipcovers of the dining chairs and to mesh well with the white details in the living area.


On the kitchen countertop sit matching wooden dish and spice racks from Robinsons Department Store. Grace also granted the daughter's final wish: a new induction cooktop from the same store.