In partnership with Modernbrands Inc., Alveo unveils a model unit for signature Pasig condo project Portico specially designed by Weiss himself. Upon entering the model unit, visitors are immediately greeted by the celebrated Scandinavian expressions of clean lines, smooth textures, warm lights, utilitarian pieces, and muted colors. Such an aesthetic is said to signify a close relationship with elements of nature, which is characteristic of hygge as an art form of creating intimacy. 

With an overall description of “playful” (in the Scandinavian sense), the unit’s highlight is Innovation Living’s renowned multifunctional sofa bed system. Developed to conform to space and foster interactions, its flexibility gives users the power to “play around” and make adjustments based on their needs. Aside from reclining at different angles, pieces can be affixed or separated to create an instant modular sofa or even a full-size bed. They can also be customized to preferred color, fabric, and mattress type.

For many Pinterest-loving, design-savvy homeowners, conceptual development and space planning while giving a home some hygge can be enjoyable tasks. However, for the hectic and non-design-inclined, they may seem as daunting as purchasing a home in itself. Aside from advocating the advantages of Scandinavian functionality in local urban dwellings, Modernbrands offers Portico homeowners the opportunity to choose from different fully furnished designs for their studio, one-bedroom, or two-bedroom units—a practical solution to achieving hygge in the tropics.

Another eye-catcher in the unit is the living room’s ripple-effect cabinet that doubles as a television stand. Created by Innovation Living’s award-winning designer Hans Sandgren Jakobsen, the modern piece (as well as the dining room chairs and drawer) was constructed using cutting-edge three-dimensional (3D) veneer technology. Before the introduction of 3D veneer, the idea of molding wood was an impossibility. Nowadays, 3D experimentations with the form of wood veneer are leading to more lightweight and durable furniture. 

Essentially, hygge is a tenet of Scandinavian living and design philosophies. According to Per Weiss, creative director of Danish furniture brand Innovation Living, Scandinavian design is “not necessarily minimalistic, but it’s quite basic.” It centers on harmony with one’s environment, while being surrounded by concepts that represent and promote functionality, durability, and simplicity.