Cover Rugs by designers Rita Nazareno and Gabriel Lichauco (Photo: Nazareno/Lichauco website)
Rugs by designers Rita Nazareno and Gabriel Lichauco (Photo: Nazareno/Lichauco website)
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Here are the Filipino designers balancing heritage and innovation at a trade show and design fair in Singapore from September 26th to 28th
This year, the prestigious FIND - Design Fair Asia is highlighting the unparalleled creativity and craftsmanship of Filipino designers. These designers are known for their intricate artistry and innovative approaches. They will be showcasing a curated selection of contemporary furniture, interiors, and design brands that are visually striking, balancing cultural significance and sustainable practices.
The design fair and trade show is an opportunity to explore the latest trends in furniture, lighting, kitchenware, bathroom solutions, surfaces, and homeware. At the same time, it is a celebration of these designer's commitment to their craft while immersing themselves in collaboration with designers from other cultures.
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1. Selena Placino
Above Banga Novelty Table Lamp (Photo: Selena Placino Website)
Above Balud Table Lamp for Senseware (Photo: Selena Placino Website)
Banga Novelty Table Lamp (Photo: Selena Placino Website)
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Infusing functional items with curiosity and intrigue is at the heart of Selena Placino’s designs. Placino has worked with companies such as The Walt Disney Company Inc, Chicco, and Desall. Now, she designs furniture, lighting, packaging, and other objects for various brands and startups in the Philippines. Her goal is to create eye-catching products that add ease to everyday life.
2. Lilianna Manahan
Above Groink Candelabra (Photo: Lilianna Manahan Website)
Above Play Vessels (Photo: Lilianna Manahan Website)
Groink Candelabra (Photo: Lilianna Manahan Website)
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Lilianna Manahan studied at Central Saint Martins School of Design before completing her industrial design degree at the University of Philippines Diliman. She has been running her design practice since 2012. She was awarded as one of the six Rising Asian Talents at the first Maison et Objets Asia before being 2018 shortlisted as a nominee in the Ateneo Art Awards. She utilises materials such as metal, paper, and ceramic, imbuing industrial functionality with playful vibrance.
3. Chini Studio
Above Kai'a Floor Lamp (Photo: Chini Studio Website)
Above Momo and Boo Table Lamp (Photo: Chini Studio Website)
Kai'a Floor Lamp (Photo: Chini Studio Website)
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Chini Lichangco graduated from De La Salle College of Saint Benilde before studying under the world-renowned Kenneth Cobonpue in Cebu. Now, her creations spotlight the intricacies of flora and fauna. Key elements in her designs include transparency and varying textures. Her whimsical masterpieces have won awards at the London International Creative Competition and the Cheongju International Craft Competition in Korea.
4. E/Lou Furniture Studio
E/Lou is run by the Calabarzon-based furniture designer Edward Sibunga, who studied industrial design. His furniture designs have won local awards from the DOST’s Rubberwood Furniture Design Competition, the Anthology Festival of WTA Architecture & Design Studio, and more. He has also been a design talent for government organisations and local furniture manufacturers. At E/Lou, he focuses on perfecting the intricate details of each artisanal piece.
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5. Genteel Home
Above Salome Centre Table (Photo: Genteel Home Website)
Above Jose Console Cabinet (Photo: Genteel Home Website)
Salome Centre Table (Photo: Genteel Home Website)
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Over the past decade, the Genteel Home furniture company has grown out of Pampanga to create furnishings for residential and commercial spaces. They imbue each piece of furniture with intentionality and soul, driven by a deep commitment to the quality of their materials. They offer a wide range of furniture suitable for the dining room, bedroom, or living room, adding a touch of Filipino elegance to any space.
6. Jasser Studio
Shibo Table Lamp (Photo: Jasser Studio Website)
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Jasser Aguila studied at De La Salle College of Saint Benilde before working under Kenneth Cobonpue in Cebu. During his apprenticeship, he focused on honing his skills in creating home decorations and sculptures. For his pieces, he takes inspiration from minute experiences of daily life and the complex forms of the natural world. The resulting creations flow organically while showing an intuitive appreciation for the craft.
7. Nazareno/Lichauco
Hoch Tables (Photo: Nazareno/Lichauco Website)
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Rita Nazareno and Gabriel Lichauco’s design partnership took root in 2016, balancing traditional Filipino materials with innovative strategies and forms. They utilise bold colours and distinctive textures, infusing each space with unexpected flair. They also engage in design curation and exhibition; some notable recent design projects include the OB Montessori Centre and the Ramon Magsaysay Centre.
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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.
