Interior design students from De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) have completed the renovation of communal dormitory spaces for persons with special needs at the Hospicio de San Jose, a centuries-old social welfare institution in Manila.
The project, titled “Liwaga”—a portmanteau of the Filipino words liwanag (light) and alaga (care)—involved 42 students who transformed over 147 square meters of shared living areas into more accessible, functional, and calming environments for the shelter’s residents.
Located on Isla de Convalecencia in Ermita, Hospicio de San Jose has served as a sanctuary for abandoned and marginalized individuals since 1810. Today, it supports children, the elderly, and persons in crisis, offering healthcare, psycho-social support, education, and capacity-building programs rooted in Vincentian service.
The renovation focused on communal areas in two dormitories—81.52 square meters for boys and 66.17 square meters for girls. These included kitchens, dining spaces, and endorsement rooms. Under the guidance of faculty members Karol Ann Antonio and Randy Pabona, students addressed structural issues such as uneven flooring and deteriorated walls, installing slip-resistant laminate surfaces and reinforced materials for durability.
The design incorporated natural lighting, bright colors, and motifs inspired by the Filipino children’s game Langit Lupa to foster a sense of optimism and playfulness. Lighting was upgraded with energy-efficient fixtures to enhance safety and visibility, particularly in work areas like kitchens.
For improved accessibility, tactile paving was added for the visually impaired, and walkways were widened to accommodate mobility aids. Color blocking and subtle material changes helped designate zones within open layouts, supporting intuitive use of the space.
Soothing color palettes were chosen to minimize visual stress, with students avoiding overly stimulating hues. Sensory panels and drawing boards were introduced in activity areas to encourage engagement and self-expression.
Additional storage, durable and ergonomic furniture, and household accessories such as clocks, picture frames, and toys were included to make the spaces feel more homelike.
Students managed the project from research through construction. To raise funds, they organized events including a bazaar, a film screening, a gig night, and merchandise sales. A culminating exhibition at Ayala Malls Manila Bay showcased the project’s stages.
The renovated dormitories were officially turned over to Hospicio de San Jose following three months of work.
More information is available at tinyurl.com/LIWAGA2025.
