Cover The upcoming architectural and interior design events happening in Manila, Philippines in the coming weeks (Photo stylised by Celine Dabao)
The upcoming architectural and interior design events happening in Manila, Philippines in the coming weeks (Photo stylised by Celine Dabao)
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From the International Design Conference to the Anthology Festival, these events celebrate the innovations of Philippine architecture and interior design
Two features have always characterised Filipino design: care for community and connection to the environment. As the early Christmas season rolls back around, it is also time for the country’s foremost architects, interior designers and creatives to gather in conversation.
Tatler has rounded up three significant events happening in the design community this season. The gatherings are deeply rooted in the context of modern living, harnessing modern technology while honouring the traditions that make Southeast Asia a force to reckon with.
From the International Design Conference on September 18 to the Anthology Festival happening from October 2 to 4, here are 3 design-led events you won’t want to miss.
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International Design Conference (September 18)
Above International Design Conference 2026, with the theme “Designing For the Pluriverse”
International Design Conference 2026, with the theme “Designing For the Pluriverse”
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Under the theme of “Designing for the Pluriverse”, this year’s International Design Conference will be held at Foro De Intramuros, Manila. Celebrating the intersection of design, business, technology, and policy, the Design Center of the Philippines is celebrating the tenth iteration of this highly anticipated gathering.
The pressures of a ‘global monoculture’ often focus on standardising one approach to maintaining efficiency and scaling up industries, even at the cost of the environment. Such an approach minimises the contextual approach that Southeast Asian cultures are rich in, given their unique histories and climates.
In response, “International Design Conference: Designing for the Pluriverse” explores opportunities for pluralism to take root in its respective communities. Taking inspiration from the Philippines’ archipelago, the gathering explores a future determined by many harmonious, vibrant stories.
Manila Interior Design Summit (September 30-October 2)
Above New Worlds, the Manila Interior Design Summit for 2026, with the theme of “Designing New Worlds: Culture, Cities, and the Future of Southeast Asia”
New Worlds, the Manila Interior Design Summit for 2026, with the theme of “Designing New Worlds: Culture, Cities, and the Future of Southeast Asia”
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As the Philippine Institute for Interior Designers (PIID) turns 62 this year, they are celebrating with four days of experiential learning across Bonifacio Global City and Makati City. This year, the theme is “Designing New Worlds: Culture, Cities, and the Future of Southeast Asia” to further establish the Filipino interior design identity amid its counterparts in the region, which PIID President Cecil Ravelas described as being “anchored in warmth, in hospitality and in the humanity our culture has always brought to a room.”
Over four days, designers and creatives will be immersed in different themes, including how the space welcomes and receives individuals, how it holds them, how it carries them forward and how it makes them feel. For Ravelas, it is important for the dialogues to cross over eight tracks that range from climate responsiveness to Filipino craftsmanship, always intending to build a thriving community.
Among the Filipino architects and designers taking part in MIDS this year are Ed Calma, Tina Periquet, Anthony Nazareno, Anton Mendoza, Carlo Calma, Ramon Antonio, Chat Fores, Alex Co and Edwin Uy. Eight furniture designers will also be showcasing their pieces, including Vito Selma, Leeroy New, JJ Acuna for Venzon Lighting, JB Woodcraft, Iñigo Elizalde, Jed Yabut, Rita Nazareno, Gabby Lichauco and Milo Naval. Finally, there will be an exhibit celebrating the PIID's 62nd anniversary, crafted by the interior designers Nina Santamaria, Jonathan Matti and Eric Paras.
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Anthology Festival 2026 (October 2-4)
Above Anthology Festival 2026 on October 2 to 4
Anthology Festival 2026 on October 2 to 4
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In the historic district of Intramuros, Manila, architects, designers, cultural practitioners and more will be conversing about the state of ASEAN design under the theme “Shared Ground: Architecture of Care, Culture, and Collective Futures”.
Organised by WTA Architecture & Design Studio in partnership with the City of Manila, Intramuros Administration and National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), the tenth year of this festival will explore how design is impacted by heritage, public life, governance and the ever-changing state of Southeast Asian cities.
Anthology Festival will feature 128 speakers from the Philippines, Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia, as well as three international keynotes, cross-sector roundtables, ten regional installations, open presentations and evening forums.
“We are not looking for one imported answer to the future city,” shared William Ti, the festival curator, founder and principal architect of WTA Architecture & Design Studio. “The region is already generating its own knowledge and models. Anthology is a place to make those ideas visible, put them into conversation and ask what we can build together.”
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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.
