Maria’s Journey: From the Philippines to Age-Inclusive Homes in the United States
Maria's story begins in the lush, bustling suburbs of Manila in the Philippines, where she was raised in a home built by her father, Valentino—a visionary entrepreneur whose values of courage, creativity, collaboration, and compassion left an indelible mark on her heart.
It was during the construction of that home that Maria first discovered her passion for architecture and design. She spent her formative years watching her father build not only a thriving business but also a life centered around service and legacy. Tragically, Valentino passed away at the age of 59 due to complications from surgery, a loss that left a profound void in Maria’s life. But even in grief, she found purpose.
With the resilience inherited from her mother, Lydia, Maria turned her pain into purpose—pursuing her education with determination and nurturing her love for design. Lydia remained Maria’s strongest supporter, encouraging her to dream big and fearlessly. With her mother’s blessing, Maria immigrated to the United States in pursuit of a new chapter—and to honor her father's legacy.
In the U.S., Maria’s creativity flourished. She soon met her soulmate, Calvin—a kind, intelligent, and compassionate man who shared her dreams and became both her life and business partner. Together, they built more than just a family—they built a purpose-driven company dedicated to transforming houses into homes.
Maria and Calvin launched a remodeling business that seamlessly blended form and function. Their designs weren’t just beautiful—they were meaningful, practical, and rooted in real-life stories. With Lydia’s encouragement, she joined them in Maryland to help raise their two daughters, Meagan and Lauren. Maria wanted her mother’s values to shape the next generation.
In 2009, the family relocated to Orange County, California—a dream they had long envisioned. But life took another heartbreaking turn when Lydia was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and stage 4 kidney failure. Despite their best efforts, Maria and Calvin were forced to place Lydia in a skilled nursing facility for 24-hour care. In 2014, tragedy struck again. Lydia passed away—not from her illnesses, but from a preventable fall in the facility.
That loss became Maria’s call to action.
She realized that far too many families face the same pain—the inability to care for aging loved ones at home due to unsafe environments. Fueled by purpose, Maria became a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist through the National Association of Home Builders, merging her expertise in design with her mission to protect and empower older adults.
Together, Maria and Calvin began designing age-inclusive homes—spaces that honor every stage of life. Their work now combines beauty with accessibility, and style with safety. They create environments where memories are made and where families can age with dignity, grace, and peace of mind.
A Mission Rooted in Love
Maria’s journey from the Philippines to Southern California is not just one of personal transformation. It’s a story of legacy, love, and leadership. Today, she stands as a respected voice in age-in-place design, a dedicated advocate for senior wellness, and a business owner with heart.
Her work with Project Build Construction & Interiors and her media platform, The Sageful Life, reflects a lifelong commitment to family, community, and compassion. Through every remodel and every podcast episode, Maria is building something far greater than homes—she’s building hope.