AMERICAN Standard Design Award (ASDA) 2026 Asia-Pacific grand prize winner Patricia Malijan addressed the realities of multigenerational living through The Humble Home, a functional and inclusive bathroom that ensures everyday comfort and eases daily routines.
Inspired by the typical Filipino family lifestyle and her own personal experience of sharing such a home, the Interior Design student from De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) conceptualized this safe space as her winning entry for ASDA, a premier regional bathroom design competition, which advocates purposeful designs and hygiene standards.
“In many Filipino households, spaces are shared, and daily life requires consideration, flexibility, and care for one another,” she noted. “This inspired me to design a bathroom which supports different individual needs while still functioning as one cohesive space.”
This coming June, she will officially receive her ASDA 2026 Asia-Pacific award with her mentor, Benilde faculty IDr. Candice Arboleda, who guided her in the project creation.
Malijan emphasized that each area of the bathroom is designed to prioritize adaptability and ease of movement for each family member, to include kids, adults, seniors and persons with disabilities (PWDs). Its floor plan exudes spatial efficiency and is thoughtfully arranged to aid both independent and guided routines.
“It supports simultaneous use through clear zoning, while allowing parents to assist children or elderly family members without compromising privacy,” she said. “Storage solutions are thoughtfully placed and accessible to reduce strain and improve daily efficiency.”
Adaptable to various life stages
Originally designed for a family of four, the 7-sqm bathroom is planned within a condominium unit. However, it may be replicated through several residential settings, which is ideal for compact urban homes and large family dwellings.
The layout has an intuitive, human-centered arrangement and is adaptable to various life stages and activities. Fluid daily movement can be enjoyed by families as private zones, such as the subtly separated toilet and shower, while shared areas, such as the wash and storage zones, remain open.
It comprises a laundry and multifunctional storage area for chores and other essentials, as well as a wash area for grooming and personal care. It includes built-in lighting over the counters, a spacious work zone, and mirrors. Safe spaces include a PWD-friendly countertop and a step stool for toddlers.
For bathing, the shower room is crafted with generous space, natural light, and warm, tactile textures. It includes a foldable chair support for elderly users and parents giving their children a bath. A smart storage and a full-length mirror complete the zone.
The toilet area has a handrail for PWD users, a bidet or hygiene spray, a tissue holder, and a shelf stocked with deodorizing must-haves to maintain freshness and comfort.
The Humble Home has sage green accent walls and counter backing to give off soft and soothing visuals. It is decorated with indoor plants for a fresh and calming ambiance.
“Rather than relying on luxury or excess, the design focuses on what truly matters: function, comfort, and human-centered usability,” Malijan said. “Every element serves a purpose, supporting independence, ease of movement, and the simple pleasures of daily life, in work, in rest, or in fun. The space inspires mindful, joyful, and connected living.”