The husband-and-wife homeowners of Real Living's Real Home Makeover were more or less resigned to living a life of chaos. After all, this might be the price one has to pay for having three adorable young girls who all have to go through the boisterous toddler phase. But the young mother never gave up the dream of living a life less cluttered, constantly browsing and keeping magazines for future reference, even buying a few items here and there to keep in storage while they waited for the kids to grow up. But as her decorating plans were kept on hold, their kids and their toys have gradually taken over their two-storey home.
Her despair prompted her to send an email to Real Living and left the rest to the universe. To her utter surprise and gratitude, the universe responded by sending RL's former associate stylist and first-time makeover designer, Issa Villar. "I gave her free reign over the project. I just wanted to maximize her talents," the homeowner says. But although she kept suggestions to a minimum, it turned out that her vision and Issa's were a perfect match. See what the home looks like after the makeover! Click "Next!" 
Get more fabulous home makeover ideas in the March 2013 issue of Real Living Philippines, out on stands now! You can also subscribe to the magazine's digital edition.
Also in this issue:
Cozy Living, Find Your Comfot Zone!
Expert Advice: How to Buy a Proper Bed
33 Pages of Sweet, Cozy Homes
(First published as "Law of Attraction" in the "Real Home Makeover" section of Real Living Philippines' April 2011 issue. Photos by Vincent Coscolluela. Words by Celeste Coscolluela. Adapted for use in Female Network)
The timeless, sturdy gray couch from Crossings Department Store comfortably seats the family. A simple mirror and an industrial-looking floor lamp--one of the things the young mother had in her possession but wasn't used until the makeover--grace the understated area. 
While creating child-friendly homes is the top priority for parents, Issa believes they don't need to stick to kiddie furniture because the young ones would outgrow them anyway. Instead, she advises looking for flexible items that are sturdy yet low enough for the kids, such as the coffee table from Crossings Department Store that easily converts into a dining table for the kids. 
The dining table, a remnant of the husband's childhood, had been languishing in the garage for years. When Issa suggested using it to replace the awkward glass-topped outdoor dining set they had, his other half wasn't sure it could be restored to its old glory--with minor refurbishing, it did. 
Issa couldn't help but re-do the kitchen as well. It now dons chic blue-and-white tiles, a fresh coat of white paint for the cabinets, and built-in shelves for extra storage. New cutlery, fruit basket, plates, and glasses are all courtesy of Crossings Department Store.
