Welcome to my home. Let me tell you the tale of how I made my dreams of domesticity become a reality. Ever since I was a little girl, I had a penchant for dressing up my own space. I have this keen sense for organizing and decorating that I probably inherited from my awesome grandmother and mother.
Early on, I fantasized about what it would be like to walk into a whole house that I owned and that reflected exactly who I was as a human being. I could decorate as I please, make my own rules and most especially have the space to learn my way around managing a household. The experience of my family having to sell the house I grew up in also motivated me early in life to be frugal. Two years into show business at 20 years old, I decided continue college as a financially independent adult. After a semester, I realized that the tuition fee was eating up the money I should be saving so I could have a home of my own. Ms. Ilokona that I am, I applied for a scholarship that I wasn’t eligible for because I was already enrolled.
But I wanted it.
I fought for it through an honest essay and portfolio with recommendation letters from my mentors in the showbiz industry. I got it. Having the prestige of the scholarship enabled me to keep myself grounded in who I was outside of showbiz but disabled me from having a normal artista life of partying and buying expensive things.
I am very thankful for that.
I subsequently stopped shopping and traveling for 5 years and worked my pretty butt off, gladly accepting all the roles that were given to me. I remember there was even a time when I admired a co-actress’ new shoes and said to myself before compulsively buying, “This would probably be the equivalent of a wall in my house. So nevermind.” That became a trend I easily adapted to. I hardly ever entered the mall anymore and resorted to borrowing clothes from friends for TV appearances or events where I’d be photographed. No way was I going to pay for something I could use only once every decade. I didn’t even get to see my parents for three years because of how focused I was on managing my finances. It was one of the most difficult things to deal with… having to live away from your parents yet not being able to see them because you had bills to pay. When they left for Canada, I was on my own with hardly enough savings to make a down payment for a house yet, no husband to cough it up for me (boohoo), and no parents around to save my ass if I mess up. Mind you, I really wasn’t making a lot back then but I was really determined. I have zero regrets about having to go through all of that. In fact, I am eternally grateful for it.
Bea Condez says
Your achievements are very inspiring Ms. Bianca! I am now a fan. I want to see more from your blog and I hope you won’t mind sharing some of your recipes! God bless you and more power. 🙂
Bianca King says
I just shot recipe videos! Coming up real soon!
iamsuperizch says
Well done Ms. Bianca! Now I’m going to bookmark this and wait for your future posts! What you did there is pretty amazing! You’re such a good role model for kids these days. Keep it up!
Bianca King says
Thank you so much! Glad you like my blog =)
duskydawn says
I loooove your house. It is my peg now that I’m having my condo renovated. It’s amazing how you didn’t have a professional interior designer help you with this. May I please inquire where you bought your bricks and fabrics?
Bianca King says
Bricks are from those roadside stone and cement stalls in balintawak. Fabrics are from Shell Canvass and Larry’s.
Isay Baingan says
Thank you for sharing B. Very inspiring indeed.
Bianca King says
You’re welcome! More to come.
Je says
Hi,
First off, kudos! I really love your home. You do have a natural knack for decorating.
I hope you’ll share more tips and information to us regarding your sources and inspirations… On that note (hehe), how did you achieve the color of the bricks in the first floor wall/kitchen counter? Is that the natural color? Or was it white washed?
Thanks in advance, and keep the posts coming!
Bianca King says
Yup I intend on taking videos in the stores where I got good bargains!
The colour of the bricks in my living room and kitchen are a natural peach wash. The bricks in my room are also naturally vintage with a slight white wash over them. You can find them at any brick store!
jhoize says
so beautiful Bianca. You inspired me a lot! I like designing my own space too and this helps me. 🙂
Mafe Jore says
Worth It . I adore and idolize you a lot Ms. Bianca 🙂
Bianca King says
aww thanks!
Fida Gradescu says
Hi Bianca,
Your place is really nice and very welcoming. I love the interior design. Very maaliwalas. After reading your blog, i really got motivated. If you really do want something you should really learn on how to focus and prioritize and everything follows.
Keep it up and good luck.
Bianca King says
If you really want something, direct all your energies to working hard for it! I had very little money in the bank when I dreamed of the house. Though my house is small, it’s in my name and no one can take it away from me! hahaha
An says
beautiful space…..
Drea Rose says
Hi Miss Bianca!
(Would it be ok to call you ate instead? ^_^)
This blog post made me kinda teary. Thank you SO much for sharing your experience, it’s very much inspiring. I’ve admired you then as an actress, but I admire you so much more now for being so real, honest and humble. I’ve learnt from your post that even though some luxuries may seem attainable, one must learn to evaluate first if that money can be better spent somewhere else where it would be much more beneficial in the long run.
I’m currently studying in college overseas and I’m in the same phase of
Having to pay for my tuition (after graduating). You’ve motivated me and encouraged me to work hard and persevere to attain my goals. Thank you for being such an amazing role model!
*virtual hug* 😀 <3
Love,
Drea
Ps. Your blog is amaziiingg, I'm definitely excited to read more of your upcoming posts. ^_^
Bianca King says
Aww now you made me cry! Wish I could take a photo of myself now and show you my silly teary-eyed self. The greatest luxury in life you can have is a good education, passion to make use of that knowledge and savings to invest in things that will grow your money… like property and business. Things you hang on your body have far less value and the older I get, the less important they are to me. Live well by having a comfortable home, traveling and eating food that’s good for you!
Drea Rose says
Hi Ate Bianca! I’ve just read your reply now. To be honest I wasn’t expecting it considering of how busy you probably are but thank you!
And nawww, i didn’t mean to make you cry but I’m certain that you would’ve still looked beautiful anyway. Reading this made me cry as well (but of course it was tears of joy! Hahaha)
It’s astonishing how everything you said were definitely on point.
“Things you hang on your body have far less value” and “Live well by having a comfortable home, traveling and eating food that’s good for you!”
These are such an eye-opener. Thank you for sharing your words of wisdom. They gave me a new perspective in life and for that I am extremely grateful.
Wishing you all the best and more success. *virtual super hug* <3 ^_^
With much love,
Drea
Bianca King says
I’m glad to have touched you, too!
Bry says
You have a really nice house! Its so neat, bright, and ang saya ng look. Seeing you as a kid in before nung high school in bene..i didnt imagine you buying recycled woods, tipid, etc… Good job bianca! Keep it up!
Im really a fan of what you do in and out of showbiz
Bianca King says
Tipid is the way to go! Mahirap ang buhay lalo na pag mag-isa ka, like me.
Tina says
Hi Bianca! Such a cozy and pretty house you got there. And I love your kitchen! I actually started following you on IG bec you cook healthy food and you practise yoga like I do. But little did I know that you lived very much on your own finances and that you built this on your own. I’ve always thought you had a comfortable life with rich parents who were always ready to give money to support your dreams. Thanks for sharing your inspiring story. 🙂
Bianca King says
Oh my goodness… my family is not rich at all. I became 100% financially independent at 18 and helped my family with all expenses. No regrets though! People just think I’m sosyal because I’m tisay and can speak English hahaha!
Glad to hear you practice yoga! Hope to see you at Beyond Rockwell then! If you’re every there and I’m there, I’ll spot you a class!
Also stay tuned for the recipes I’ve been promising everyone. I just shot videos for them!
B
Maui says
You have a very chic house…very impressive for someone who doesnt have an interior decorator 🙂 and you gave a lot of really good ideas and practical tips on saving and designing.
Bianca King says
There’s more to come! I intend on showing you the stores where I got good bargains.
karla says
Hi B… 🙂
I was so inspired by your lovely interior designs…. i cant wait to have my own house too…. congrats to your blog
Bianca King says
If you want it bad enough, it’ll happen!
Ana says
Your story is so inspiring, I am currently slowly renovating and designing our home. I just got married and moved to our new house.
Bianca King says
Good for you! Don’t forget to make a scrapbook before you start buying your furniture and decor! It’ll help you decide what look to go for.
Anne Imperio says
Hi Bianca,
your story inspires me a lot. behind a beautiful face is an awesome personality. 🙂
Bianca King says
Thank you!!!
Danielle Fatima says
That was a nice read! Very inspiring. You broke the notion i had that celebrities have it easy. Its nice know that working hard and saving for rainy days isnt just a myth and it actually applies to everybody. Anyways, kudos!!! Your page will definitely be bookmarked 🙂
Bianca King says
Oh boy… my life was not easy. But I was very blessed growing up so I had no qualms about working hard and being a bread winner at a young age. I just always put education first too. Now that I’m ripe enough to share my stories on how I found my way through life, I made this blog for people like you!
B
Anna Marie San Juan says
Really inspiring plus your house looks so nice! Post pictures please!! 🙂 🙂
Bianca King says
Hahaha the video isn’t enough? You’ll be seeing my house a lot more in all my cooking and baking videos!
Ria says
Very neat place you’ve got. I love on how you put up all your concepts to make it your own. I’m in love with the wall brick. I’m a very minimalist person, but you just made me change my heart. Now, I’m excited to design my condo. Oh yeah, I can’t wait to go Ikea.
Keep posting good stuff. God bless!
Bianca King says
Bricks are so easy to buy! Just find someone to install it for you as it can be quite tedious. But worth it!
Angela says
Hi Bianca! I’ve been dreaming to design my own house and you’re just my percfect inspiration.
I’m planning to work abroad for 2years and will definitely save money for my own house ! So excited to have a house of my own and design it myself.
More power to you and may you continue to share great ideas. ^_^
Bianca King says
Just make sure you save more than you spend! It will pay off, I promise!
B
tomatostellar says
Instagram-worthy space 🙂 This is a very inspiring post – congrats on your blog!
closethousewife says
Please help me spread the word!
Bianca King says
Please help me spread the word!
ella says
gorgeous place Bianca! 🙂 love the colors of it, subtle and homey feel. thanks for sharing!
closethousewife says
Thanks!!!! My big girl doll house.
Bianca King says
Thanks!!!! My big girl doll house.
Alles says
Hi Bianca
Alles says
Hi Bianca
Your blog has truly inspired me and i am grateful to witness your mission in the world.
your creativity, art and inspired words are so fueling for me.
hope to read and see more also your recipes
Keep shining Idol
closethousewife says
I have so many easy-to-do recipes that will give you new skills in the kitchen! As in 14 recipes that are ready to be posted soon! Keep checking the blog!
B
Bianca King says
I have so many easy-to-do recipes that will give you new skills in the kitchen! As in 14 recipes that are ready to be posted soon! Keep checking the blog!
B
juvy says
Hey ms.bianca you really inspired me.Thank you for creating this….
closethousewife says
You’re welcome! I have what I have because of all of you. This is just my way of giving back.
B =)
Bianca King says
You’re welcome! I have what I have because of all of you. This is just my way of giving back.
B =)
Cecaniah Corabelle says
hi miss bianca..i am really an avid fan of yours since. .because of you and this blog i am really motivated to accomplish my goals in life.. thank you so much miss Bianca King..
God bless 🙂
Cecaniah Corabelle says
Hi miss bianca…we have really something in common..i am 21 and i support myself in my studies and i dont ask money anymore on my guardians…im working on my own para makaraos…its really hard but after reading your blog…lumakas ang loob ko…i really have to thank you for inspiring me miss bianca…i wish i can hug you now..haha
feeling ko kaya ko na rin maging independent:) thank you so much ms.B God Bless :))
Bianca King says
You’re welcome! And thank you also for following my blog!
Bianca King says
Thank you too! Go get ’em!
Ces says
I’ve subscribed to notable blogs and I must say, yours is something I look forward to. Shoutout for knowing who you are, for being real & for being an inspiration. 🙂
You’re a good role model and I hope the young ones will follow your footsteps. 🙂
closethousewife says
I cry =) =) =) tears of joy!
Love,
Bianca
Bianca King says
I cry =) =) =) tears of joy!
Love,
B
Apple says
Wow! You’re an awe-inspiring kind of girl. Not just the usual celebrity that I’ve happen to read in magazines. I’m now an avid reader of your blog. Keep it up.
closethousewife says
I’m glad you like my blog! Months of handwork and planning. More interesting stuff to come!
Bianca King says
I’m glad you like my blog! Months of handwork and planning. More interesting stuff to come!
Hannah says
You have played a major role with regards to inspiring me to excel in whatever I decide to pursue in life. I stopped studying for 2 years and decided to go on a break and find work instead. After re visiting your Instagram I began to develop a spark of hope to go back and study once again as I fell off track.
THANK YOU for opening my eyes and for allowing me to treasure the gift of education and what it can do to empower everyday women like myself. I believe just like you I will be able to make a positive contribution along with many career opportunities provided I stay humble & never give up.
I sent you an email suggesting if you would mind finding the time to post up something little and let us all in on your studying tips, habits, do you ever lack motivation, general stuff like that would be so amazing to read.
I have been going cray cray browsing articles about you and your advice on studying. I’ve read some powerful and mind blowing stuff!
I seriously hope to meet you one day hopefully you can come to the land down under.
Love & much respect,
Hannah 🙂 XX
closethousewife says
I’m happy to have inspired you! Once upon a time I had everything. Then had nothing. I became a breadwinner in my late teens. Stopping school to work is completely acceptable. Just get your degree and try to be the most passionate in your chosen field. Will definitely add time management and study tips to my blog articles lined up. I do have a few tricks up my sleeve to make life easier for the working young woman. I had no parents around physically to guide me or support me financially but I made it through by studying hard and working hard! I wish the same for you, Hannah.
Love lots,
Bianca
Bianca King says
I’m happy to have inspired you! Once upon a time I had everything. Then had nothing. I became a breadwinner in my late teens. Stopping school to work is completely acceptable. Just get your degree and try to be the most passionate in your chosen field. Will definitely add time management and study tips to my blog articles lined up. I do have a few tricks up my sleeve to make life easier for the working young woman. I had no parents around physically to guide me or support me financially but I made it through by studying hard and working hard! I wish the same for you, Hannah.
Love lots,
B
Kevin says
Hi, your story is inspiring. I can relate to the hardships. Now I am feeling more inspired to build a house with ultimate customization with practical resources someday. Thank you. Keep it up! Godbless! 🙂
closethousewife says
you should go for it! follow your dreams but be practical.
Bianca King says
you should go for it! follow your dreams but be practical.
B
lagmaya says
love the kitchen. but wait did i see the bathroom? favorite part of the house kitchen and bathroom so….. beaitiful house anayway.
Lia Antonio says
Wow someone to really look up to.:)
I am currently finishing my degree through distance education because of my health and started working in between. I also want a place of my own.
Now I am more inspired thank you.<3
I want to be independent and help my parents as well. My mother told me it's okay basta kaya ko na and I know it is going to be tough but worth it. It's hard not to think that your missing out on a lot of things when you're saving up. I sometimes feel napagiiwanan ako but because of that I started learning about myself my capabilities and what I really need versus my wants.
God Bless!
Bianca King says
That’s how I felt too. Sometimes deprived but at the end of the day, always fulfilled because I knew I was working hard and I actually enjoyed my acting work. Just stay focused and manage your money wisely =)
B
Jazmine De Luna says
Wow! This is women empowerment! Your house is so cozy!
This made me wanna save up right now for the home Ive been dreaming of to own.
Thank you for the inspiration, B! <3
Bianca King says
you’re welcome! Keep visiting the blog for more inspiration =)
Laviña Jampit says
just this month when I wanted to do something with my bedroom and I’ve always wanted a pastel or Parisian interior. after seeing the video of your home tour, I got more motivated to pursue for my dream bedroom in a practical way. yay! hopefully, mine will be finished by next month! thanks for sharing this video Bianca!
.
P.S. ——> you’re such a sweetie! <3 <3 <3
Bianca King says
Show me when it’s done! I wanna see =)
B
dylan says
I love how honest you are when you say you’re borrowing clothes from friends. You really inspire people to be a lot more honest and humble. I admire your strong personality, B. Ever since I saw you on TV, I know you are not just an actress with pretty face. Thank you for being so driven. You will always be my role model. 🙂
Bianca King says
Wow!! Thank you for the compliments! Much love right back atcha!
Sheila Marie Arcilla says
Hi, Bianca! I am new here in your blog and I’m glad that I went here. Nakakatuwa na makilala ka bilang ikaw at hindi bilang artista. In such a young age ang dami mo ng achievements and it is because of your hardworks and motivation. Sobrang nakaka-inspire talaga. I am an avid fan now!
Bianca King says
Naku po! I’m just a young woman who like to dream big and work hard. Nothing was handed to me easy when I started my career. So it formed the go-getter in me. I’m not the biggest star or whatever but I want to share what I have with people, regardless of the platform. This blog is for you. To inspire you, to help you, to share what I’ve learned to be better.
Much love,
B
Sheila Marie Arcilla says
Thanks for inspiring us, Bianca! More power and God bless you always.
Bianca King says
Thank you for supporting me too!
Bianca King says
Maraming salamat sa suporta!
Norma Joy Diolata says
Hi Bianca finally im here. Hehehe…. I watched your menu many times and I want to make my own. And Im inspired of your story.
Bianca King says
Try my recipes and keep reading! =)
B
Bianca King says
Thank you!
Norma Joy Diolata says
Nice home and you inspired me.
Georgina Sasha says
Aww… Feels good to know the better side of you. Thanks for sharing Bianca! Truly inspiring and makes your fans/readers like me look up to you. You earned a regular reader here from Vegas! I will be following your blog 🙂
Bianca King says
Cool! Always happy to know I connect with people! Keep reading =)
Milen Manalansan says
you are truly an inspiration! i wanna do the same thing like what you did!
Edgar Santos says
Hi Ms. Bianca.. I love your peach mango pie.. i will try your recipe’s soon. 🙂
Bianca King says
Let me know how it goes!
May De Jesus-Palacpac says
Found your blog through Rappler. Looking forward to reading your blogs.
Bianca King says
Thank you for reading!
Maia Gonzales says
Hi Ms. Bianca, this post really inspires me. I am in the point of my life where I want to be more “financially knowledgeable” and it feels good to know that there are indeed ways on how I can manage to achieve the things/goals I want in life. Having read your blog post/s, I learned that it just takes some guts, sacrifice, and ‘real’ hard work to turn my goals to reality 🙂 Thank you very much.
Bianca King says
You really have to work hard and be relentless. Keep finding ways to move up and grow in your career. Chase your goals!
Sheryl Ann says
Inspiring 🙂 I am also on that stage of living away from a family and friends and learning
To be financially independent .. Studying abroad was very expensive and so the expenses@!! Greatfulmto read your blog I admired your FQ 🙂
Mark Encina says
Hi Ms. bianca! 🙂 this blog is really inspiring and motivating! it really inspires me to save for my future home.
April says
I love your space! I’ve always daydreamt of getting my own place, for now I can only afford saving photos from Pinterest and getting ideas from bloggers like yourself. You can tell some real thought and a lot of hardwork have been put into this. Hoping to get there one day. PS. Your Rappler article brought me to this blog, consider me an avid reader from now on 🙂
closethousewife says
Aww thanks! Hope you like all my new content.
Abigail says
your a great girl Bianca! only found out about you blog now, (thru Ms, Rhea santos’ show)..
closethousewife says
Thank you so much! Happy reading!
arni says
Hi Ms Bianca, I am a fan here, hindi lang sa pagiging artist mo pero dahil sa qualities mo na bihira sa mga artista lalo na sa age mo, you are so organize base sa mga post mo na nakikita ko, at feeling ko may timeline ka at pinipilit mo yun ma-achieve. lagi kita kwinekwento s mga friends ko kasi I admire u alot dahil sa mga na-achieve mo na sa buhay mo… pero nagagawa mo pa din balansehin yung buhay mo kasi meron ka pdin social life… Well, what can I say pa, more power always B!
Luv yah,
Arni
closethousewife says
Maraming salamat sa pagmamahal at suporta! Hope you enjoy my blog.
Janna says
Gah!! Your space is so beautiful and how you managed to get it is inspiring! Sorry if I’m commenting years after you posted this, but reading this couldn’t come at a better time. 🙂 I’m currently in the process of paying the downpayment for my still-under-construction space. Sometimes I ask if what I’m doing is right, if it’s OK that I’m pursuing this dream of mine at this stage of my life. You see, I’ve also been standing on my own since I graduated from college. It’s all been a huge challenge. Coming out to the world on your own can be scary and adult life doesn’t come as easy. But this post just gave me the encouragement I needed. I’ll push on! For my dreams and for myself.
Thank you for posting this and for sharing your home 🙂
closethousewife says
Good on you for investing early! Adult life can be daunting but as long as you have your goals in mind and God in your heart, you will get to where you need to be. Just build your home slowly but surely and don’t overspend!
Janna says
Encouraging words. Thanks again 🙂
closethousewife says
You’re welcome!
Cristine says
How I wish your blog existed when I was 20-something. You’re such an inspiring lady. I have admired you since “Broken Vow” days and I admire you more now.
Please continue inspiring other people. I am looking forward to visiting Runner’s Kitchen on my next vacation. 🙂
closethousewife says
Thank you! Hahaha that show was so long ago! Keep reading and hope you can visit Runner’s Kitchen!
Ion says
I just discovered your blog, Miss Bianca, and wow! You truly are inspiring! Looking to read more from you 😉
closethousewife says
Thank you!
Lynette says
What a lovely house Bianca. I love french chic kind of house. I live in England and houses here are too costly hence you have to use up all the space. Looking af your house made me realized its best to keep things clutter-free and I would love to design it myself. Thanks for sharing.☺️
closethousewife says
Thank you!!
Annabelle Bayawa says
Wow.. very nice layout & interior design.
Ilove it. Thank you for sharing your blog.Im one of your fans in Pusong. I hate you as Marga.. hehehe. But you acting is very well done. God bless you more
Zeenah Aquisan says
Long time fan here po! 🙂
Reading all of your articles about health & wellness.. so inspiring po. <3