Cover Crate and Barrel team with the Filipino creatives: Geewel Fuster, Steven Ticzon, Emsie Serra, Cecil Ravelas, Milka Romero, Ferdi Salvador, Vince Uy, Karina Santiago
Crate and Barrel team with the Filipino creatives: Geewel Fuster, Steven Ticzon, Emsie Serra, Cecil Ravelas, Milka Romero, Ferdi Salvador, Vince Uy, Karina Santiago
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Through the ‘Portraits of Life’ exhibition, Crate and Barrel showcases inspirations for the future of Filipino home design
Amid the fast-paced city life, it is more important than ever to create a sanctuary that reflects the unique personalities of each individual. Leading up to its tenth anniversary in the Philippines, Crate and Barrel has partnered with four Filipino creatives to explore how they transform their distinctive spaces through design. The Portraits of Life exhibition at the SM Makati branch reflects how interior design complements the memories made at different stages. Each Filipino creative was tasked with curating furniture selections from Crate and Barrel, mixing new and established pieces to reflect their style.
“Crate and Barrel’s vision is to help build a home by creating warm, inviting spaces where people gather and share meaningful moments,” shared Steven Ticzon, Crate and Barrel Philippines’ vice president and business unit head. “These values closely align with the heart of Filipino culture. Both the brand and the culture emphasise the importance of home, whether starting or transitioning as a family.”
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Filipinos continue to ground modern designs in traditional values, prioritising comfort without sacrificing the functionality of each piece. Whether they take a more rustic approach or add a playful twist to their homes, they can take design inspiration from the portraits these Filipino creatives have painted in each space.
Designer Cecile Ravelas chooses warm, natural wood accents
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For interior designer Cecil Ravelas, the goal of each design is to capture the spirit of the place. “Everything we bring into our homes affects how we live, so we should exert effort to select each element,” she shared. This intentionality considers various factors: furniture should be comfortable to sit on while adding visual harmony to a space. For Ravelas, “a sound design results in a sound mind and body at home.” Her Crate and Barrel selections reflect this philosophy, as she prioritises strong lines and soothing textures such as light wood and ceramic.
Streamlined sophistication — Creative Director Vince Uy redefines the dining room with Crate and Barrel’s new table, Ambrose
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“Start with pieces that speak to your style, mixing bold accents with calming neutrals,” urges creative director Vince Uy. “Personal touches like art or travel finds make each space uniquely yours.” Uy takes inspiration from mid-century furniture, abstract art, and architectural movements from history. Unafraid to juxtapose sharp lines and soft curves, Uy adds unexpected playfulness to every space. His furniture picks exude sophistication with their organic shapes and intriguing textures.
More from Tatler: Rooted in elegance: Brown elements in modern interiors
Geewel Fuster, a multi-hyphenate woman, combines form and function with the Leon Burl Wood Coffee Table
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Geewel Fuster is no stranger to balancing different aspects of her life, as she navigates being a mother, editor-in-chief, and designer. Partnering with Crate and Barrel was seamless, as she easily found pieces that complement her family’s lifestyle. “By approaching the space with intention and creativity, I achieve a balanced composition,” she shared. “The space resonates with both my family’s needs and my style.” Fuster’s selections have varying textures that add depth to the space while maintaining a whimsical air that her children would love to play around with.
Power millennial Milka Romero goes bold with Crate and Barrel’s chic Cerca Side Table
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Milka Romero, an entrepreneur and restaurateur, pays homage to her design journey through her selections. “In my younger years, I gravitated towards vibrant colours and mid-century pieces,” she mused. “As I’ve gotten older, my style has evolved into something more modern, with darker neutral tones that offer a sense of depth.” This design evolution would resonate with those seeking timeless pieces that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Described as a ‘power millennial,’ her pieces prioritise sleek functionality to add a contemporary edge to any space.
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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.
