The Homes of Zee

This doctor’s office in Cebu is the most stylish we’ve seen so far

Plastic surgeon Fremont Base’s stylish space brings together modern and classical elements.

When plastic surgeon Fremont Base decided to return to Cebu from Manila in 2012 to open a clinic, he clearly wanted his space to veer away from the idea of a typical doctor’s office. That meant no white walls, metal benches or harsh lighting, something he had well discussed with his design consultant Paolo del Rosario. “I’ll be spending my whole day here, so I might as well make the interiors of my office comfortable and nice for me and my patients,” Fremont adds.

Dr. Fremont Base’s office is inspired by English cigar rooms and gentlemen’s clubs. (Photography by Christine Cueto/Originally published in Zee Lifestyle, May 2015)

Together, they came up with a look that combined contemporary trends with classical elements to create a chic environment worthy of someone working in aesthetics. The reception area has grayish purple walls, complementing the semi-opaque sticker that hides the office’s interiors from the hallway. Standing in the middle of an area rug, a gray couch is furnished with throw pillows for comfortable waiting—the piece was designed by Anton and created by Allison Tyler. “It’s a bit French with the shape,” Paolo explains, “but we added a few curves here and there to make it more modern and unique.”

Throughout the space are various elements that tie into the modern luxe look that the duo wanted to achieve. Pieces of artwork hang over console tables, both of which were acquired almost by chance. One piece from up-and-coming artist Dino Gabito greets guests by the door, featuring clothing in a woman’s figure. “There’s a long waiting list for works from this artist, and we were just so lucky that one backed out of getting this piece,” Paolo shares. “And it’s perfect! It’s very appropriate for the space, considering Fremont’s work.”

A sought-after Dino Gabito piece to greet guests by the door, (Photography by Christine Cueto/Originally published in Zee Lifestyle, May 2015)

The other one—a grid of stones in different sizes and colors, resembling an ophthalmologist’s Snellen’s chart—was found in Bangkok, which Paolo recalls was practically being given away. “It was on the ground!” he exclaims. “But it’s a nice addition to the room. The colors of the stones are almost the same as the color palette of the room.” Below the painting is a console table by Allison Tyler, custom-made for magazines.

Fremont’s office is a more masculine space, done in dark green and wooden cabinetry by Anything Timber. “I don’t like clutter, so I made sure everything’s hidden,” Fremont says. His desk is a classic secretary shape, complemented by a pair of chairs for patients and his own tufted leather armchair. The darker tones soften the space, making it feel more intimate since consultations are done here. Every single space has been thought of—there’s even a roll-down white background hidden in an eave by the full-length mirror for when the doctor has to take pictures.

Not your typical doctor’s office. (Photography by Christine Cueto/Originally published in Zee Lifestyle, May 2015)

“It’s more traditional in here,” says Paolo, adding that the office is, in some way, inspired by English cigar rooms and gentlemen’s clubs. The interpretation must be successful, with both men joking that a room from the recent movie Kingsmen is almost exactly the same as the office. “Of course, that one was more authentic,” Fremont laughs.

His office certainly doesn’t feel like one you’d see in a hospital. It’s stylishly comfortable, and projects an inviting environment for those coming in for consultations and treatments. The next project for the duo is the treatment room. “We’re probably going to do it in the next few months,” says Paolo. “It’s going to be in more neutral tones, with lighter wooden touches. It’s exciting.” We can’t wait to see it, too.

photography Christine Cueto

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The Homes of Zee

The Homes of Zee–Holiday Edition: Christmas House No. 12

Christmas House No. 12 – Heart-felt Holidays at the Hofers’

Check out why this holiday home is on our list of 12 Cebu homes this season. Zee.ph offers a glimpse of Cebu’s holiday homes from far and wide. Please follow our series as we bring you a different home in the next few days!

Nestled in Banilad, Cebu City, the George Hofer residence stands as testament to enduring elegance. Constructed in the late sixties to early seventies, the mansion exudes timeless charm with warm brown molave wood panels and pristine white marble floors.

Stepping into this grand abode during the Christmas season unveils a journey into a beautifully storied past. This season, Molave wooden entance, intricately carved with the Hofer couple’s monogram, are adorned with opulent yuletide garlands. White velvet poinsettias and persimmon peonies alongside mother of pearl camellias are interspersed with pearlescent berries. Archangel Michael showers the guests with blessings from above, while a macassar ebony wooden effigy of Saint George (slaying the dragon) pays homage to the house owner’s namesake.

Adjacent to a private elevator, a grandiose Christmas tree stands tall, welcoming guests into a sprawling waiting hall. Here, an angel in teal and gold lamé cloth grouped together with exotic blooms gracefully plays the lyre; seemingly entertaining those who await entry.

Further down the hall is an ecru grand piano, where the lady of the house, a skilled pianist, performs Monti’s Czardas, Schubert’s Ständchen, and other rhapsodies on special occasions. A commissioned portrait of George and Dulce hangs on a wall above a console table that separates the hall from the formal dining area.

The Hofer home exudes old-world elegance that is seldom found today, yet its true charm lies in the joyous laughter and warm greetings of the Hofers, who gather annually to share Christmas cheer and delightful yuletide stories in this vibrant space.

The Homes of Zee

The Homes of Zee–Holiday Edition: Christmas House No. 11

Christmas House No. 11 – Christine Pelaez

Designed by the noted Cebu architect Teng Jacinto, this expansive residence stands as a testament to the artful curation of Jun Pelaez. Over the years, he has meticulously assembled a collection of artworks, transforming the home into a gallery that reflects his discerning taste and appreciation for the aesthetic.

As the holiday season graces the air, the residence undergoes a festive tone under the artful touch of Jun’s wife, Christine. Embracing tradition, she bathes the home in the classic Christmas palette of reds and greens, infusing each corner with warmth and seasonal charm. The interior becomes a canvas for the holiday spirit, adorned with wreaths, ornaments, and the timeless glow of twinkling lights.

However, the true heart of this home lies in its welcoming spirit. There are two dining rooms, with chairs adorned with red bows and festive centerpieces, where family and friends converge for an equally sumptuous meal.

The Homes of Zee

The Homes of Zee–Holiday Edition: Christmas House No. 10

Christmas House No. 10 – The Hudsons’ Christmas Chronicles

The Hudson’s household buzzes with enthusiasm each time the holiday season unfolds. The heart of their Tokyo home, the Hudson Christmas tree, stands tall and proud, adorned with tinsel and cherished trimmings that span the years of their family’s growth. Each ornament tells a story, marking the arrival of a new family member with the annual addition of baubles bearing their names: Mary, George, Victoria and Charles.

Charles, the youngest Hudson at twelve, beams with joy as he proudly places the Christmas star atop the tree. No longer reliant on his father’s shoulders, Charles revels in his newfound height and the welcomed responsibility that comes with it.

In addition to the twinkling blue lights, the festive icons and the white-and-silvery ornaments, another cherished tradition had been completed at the beginning of the joyful season. The Hudson’s much-anticipated Christmas cards, an exciting accountof the family’s adventures, had been creatively crafted by Rose and Karl. The lively narrative chronicles the milestones and quests of each family member, with Karl’s animated storytelling and Rose’s artistic touch bringing the tales to life.

Rose shares, “by mid-November we print two hundred post cards of the Hudson family chronicles. The entire family, from the oldest to the youngest, gathers around to sign each card. Envelopes are lovingly addressed, and the kids lend a hand in labeling.”

In a heartwarming shift of roles, the Hudson parents, Karl and Rose, prepare to pass the baton. The careful planning and distribution of the Christmas cards are soon to become the responsibility of the eager younger generation.

With laughter, love, and a touch of adventure, the Hudson family embraces the season, creating and sharing memories that they and their friends treasure for life.