Cover The living room of the Sorra House in Manila, which features natural light illuminating the space
The living room of the Sorra House in Manila, which features natural light illuminating the space
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This couple transformed a childhood home into a luxurious escape from Manila's city life, juxtaposing natural materials with a distinctive furniture collection
One’s home is a reflection of their growth over time; this is especially true for Jethro and Melissa Sorra, who have transformed Melissa Orteza-Sorra’s childhood home into their oasis. “It’s a place filled with wonderful memories,” shared Orteza-Sorra. “As we redesigned the space, we learned more about our preferences, styles and what truly matters. We thought about the future and how we want our home to evolve with us.”
A key element of the home is the mango tree in front of the house, which the couple was originally planning to remove. “But we couldn’t bring ourselves to do it,” said Orteza-Sorra. “Instead, we embraced it; now it’s a central part of our home’s story, embodying our desire to blend the old with the new.”
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Above The mango tree prominently displayed outside the home
Above The outdoor area of the home, featuring lush greenery
The mango tree prominently displayed outside the home
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Working with John and Pauline Sac of 50/53 Architects helped the Sorras balance a traditional design with a contemporary twist. The home is surrounded by ultra-modern designs, so they had to choose a timeless route to stand out.
For the exterior of the home, they chose light-coloured bricks and marble to complement the black windows. The home is situated in a laidback suburban area, which the couple mirrored through the lush greenery enveloping the exterior of the home.
Above The living room with natural light illuminating the space
The living room with natural light illuminating the space
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Upon entering the home, one is struck by the original marble and parquet flooring that contrasts with the couple’s growing collection of unique Filipino art. They started collecting their pieces in 2019, and are always on the lookout for new pieces. “We are firm believers in ‘slow decorating’ even after two years of living here,” she shared. “We choose each artwork with intention, making each addition meaningful to us.”
More from Tatler: Home tour: Geometric luxury mansion in Kuala Lumpur frames nature as art
The kitchen, featuring Calacatta Viola marble countertops and green cabinets
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Orteza-Sorra’s favourite room is the kitchen, which has Calacatta Viola marble countertops and green cabinets that create synergy in the space. The space is as expansive as it is soothing, allowing for the couple to seamlessly create delicious meals while entertaining together.
Above The Eames lounge chair in the living room
Above The Sorra's pet dog, Teddy, lounging on the couch
The Eames lounge chair in the living room
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While they cook, guests can lounge in their refined yet relaxing living room. The most special piece in this space is their Eames lounge chair, positioned under a ceiling fan near large windows. This maximises the summer breeze and sunlight pouring into the space.
“The chair is so comfortable that my husband, our dog Teddy and I often compete for a spot on it,” enthused Orteza-Sorra. “It’s one of the cosiest places in the house for reading, relaxing or napping.”
The lanai, featuring the vintage Murano glass flower chandelier by Paolo Venini
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The Sorras lead busy lives, so a deep connection to nature is essential to their well-being. This theme continues in their lanai. One of Melissa Orteza-Sorra’s favourite pieces there is the vintage Murano glass flower chandelier by Paolo Venini that adds visual interest to the space. The lanai then leads into an exquisitely-tiled swimming pool, perfect for a quick dive on a hot summer’s day.
Above The powder room, with tiles that represent the couple's alma maters, Georgetown and Cornell
Above Unique details in the bathroom
The powder room, with tiles that represent the couple's alma maters, Georgetown and Cornell
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The more intimate areas of the home reflect the couple’s unique quirks and pay homage to their journeys. The powder room features a personal touch with custom plaid wallpaper and tiles that represent the colours of their respective colleges, Georgetown and Cornell. The bathroom also features a mirror with playful detailing that contrasts with the elegance of the space.
The bedroom, which features soothing abaca wallpaper
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In the bedrooms and the office, they utilise abaca wallpaper to add unexpected texture to the space. “We wanted each room to feel warm and inviting but still sophisticated,” said Orteza-Sorra. “In any room, we can recharge and feel at ease after a long day of work.”
As the couple create more memories together, they will continue to decorate their home with joyful, energetic pieces that serve as mementoes of their shared growth.
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Credits
Photography: Diego Gonzales
About
Celine first read Charlotte’s Web at the age of five–and she hasn’t stopped turning pages since. Her favourite authors are Mona Awad and Nat Cassidy. Besides writing for Tatler, she listens to BTS and spends time with her family.
Work
Celine took up secondary education with a major in English, graduating from De La Salle University in 2023. She advocates for female empowerment through creative expression by writing for Tatler Homes.
For story leads or inquiries, you may reach out to her via celine.dabao@tatlerasia.com.
