Eric Paras is a household name among local interior designs. It’s not only because he curates decor and furniture, but also because of the experience he recreates by putting together those pieces, some he actually made, into an actual shop, A-11.

This ’40s-inspired structure finds shelter in an unassuming compound in F.B. Harrison. It is a juxtapose in itself with the marriage of old world charm and modern touches curated by Eric, himself. One just can’t get enough of the space. Interesting ceramics? Check. Perfectly tempered wooden pieces? Check. Art Deco? Double check. It’s an all-around interior fix for the art-inclined savvy.

Being quite adaptable, Eric makes sure that the experience once you get inside his shop is never the same the next time. “I call it dynamic; I want there to be growth,” he says, “or for it to be progressive. Basically, it should evolve.” A-11 has quickly opened its doors to unsuspecting victims, from both industry folks to the adventurous, cleverly showcasing a cleverly curated mix of furniture that don’t only deliver appeal in face value, but also in terms of practicality in function.

How did you first become interested in design?

I find homes that I would see in movies interesting. I would read the works of Edith Oliveros, one of the pioneers of Philippine interior design and take notes. I always thought houses were beautiful and I’d always find myself curious.

Would you consider your parents main influences?

Never. I always felt like an orphan in that sense, at least. I would always ask why I’m the only one interested in this stuff. I’m the only picky one in the house.

But were you always inclined to design spaces?

Of course, when I was in college, it was my dream to have my own space. In my dormitory room, I had just that. I decorated it and even had murals. You know the decorating style in the ’70s where there were pop art posters? My budgeted way of decorating was using pages from Life magazine and pasting it on pad paper.

How has your style evolved?

My aesthetic evolved because college immersed me in the history of design. I learned to appreciate each era or period, and fittingly, there’s this style called “design style” which is technically a mix of different styles.

What makes your style stand out?

It’s the way I customize it, of course. The formula is always to work with the constraints of the project. If there’s a client, I think about the constraints, problems, and what I could possibly have as a solution. That’s where I derive the best way to make it different.

Do you bother keeping up with trends?

I am aware of trends. I try to study them especially now after about 25 years of practice, I am prone to the tendency of sticking to my own formula and refraining from leaving my comfort zone.

In what year did you start designing your own furniture?

It started in 2002, when I had the owner of Triboa Bay Living as my client—I was doing their house. Then he was all, “Why don’t you try working with me for an export project?” I was able to produce a number of products that set a trend in sales until I realized that I liked being a furniture designer.

In which do you take delight in more, interior design or furniture design?

It’s really more on running A-11. It’s my expression, it’s like my own canvas and it shows exactly how I curate. People would visit, come, and even buy but I honestly also appreciate the fact that I’m capable of simply inspiring them. Plus, it’s now considered as one of the most unique places in Manila.

Where do you source the best pieces of furnitures?

The best furniture are usually from the artisans and design brands in Italy. They make really good designs and are not only good quality furniture. They so are innovative in their technology aside from being so forward.

As for my showroom, I have my own own line of furniture which I design and produce. These are made from my own workshop aside from the ones made by my partners who are mostly based in Pampanga. I also have plenty of vintage pieces that are are restored or repurposed.

Where do you get design inspirations now?

I go to Milan and Paris where we attend trade shows for trendspotting and also confer with buyers. Milan is the design mecca for furniture and other innovations for building materials. Paris has this magical flair in terms of design aesthetics.

Is your aesthetic dark or light? Why?

I think my aesthetic is a balance of dark and light. Dark in terms of my preference (for) imperfect and natural but not too severe finishes, aside from my fascination (with) putting a touch of quirkiness. I try to bring out the beauty of imperfection in any piece or product. And there is a calming and light feel that you get when you are inside a room with all my products put together, (which is) what you would feel when you are in A-11.

What’s next for Eric Paras?

I will be part of the Manila FAME in October, where I will be working with Stanley Ruiz for the product development of Design Philippines, together with Budji Layug as our creative director.

If you were to build your ideal home, where would it be and what would be its design?

It will be a simple barn in a mango orchard, it will be airy and built with sturdy materials that will be easy to maintain and can withstand a strong tropical storm. Design style will be a monastic one.

Any advice for upcoming designers today?

Hard work.

A-11. 2680 F.B Harrison St. Pasay City (02) 832-9972.
Photos by Tammy David

Source: Meg Manzano for Southern Living, “Artist’s Perspective,” July 2014