The best of Design Philippines at Maison&Objet Asia

By: Glenna Aquino - 11 years ago

RATTAN RETOOLED. Tropez sofa by Kenneth Cobonpue

t0416glenna-maison_feat3_1 — RATTAN RETOOLED. Tropez sofa by Kenneth Cobonpue

SPIRIT OF CRAFTSMANSHIP. Santamaria woven stool,Marikit floor lamps and Gregoria lounge chair by Ito Kish; Wire side table by Schema (Kalikasan Crafts Inc.); Mayumi fine bone china vases by CSM Philippines Inc.

Design Philippines, the branding initiative that positions the Philippines as a sourcing destination for finely crafted products for the global market, took center stage at the Maison&Objet Asia inaugural show last March in Singapore.

The event—a first in Asia—gave new insights into manufacturing processes, artisanal methods and material uses. The products proved the creativity and culturally driven aesthetic sensibility of a globally competitive and passionate community of Filipino designers, manufacturers, and the uncelebrated craftsmen.

CRAFT AND INNOVATION FOR THE 21ST CENTURY Director’s chair, Carriage coffee table and Voyager side table by P&B Valises et Compagnie Inc.;Oris votive holders by Schema (Kalikasan Crafts Inc.); Bar cabinet in palm veneer by Cebu Fil Veneer; Acacia wedge blocks wall mirror frame by Domicillo (Peter and Paul Inc.)

Strongly rooted in craft but creatively provoked by innovation, the pieces were distinctive and showed a design maturity and understanding of what it takes to be globally competitive.