Cover Ito Kish and Rajo Laurel
Ito Kish and Rajo Laurel
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Birthed from years of friendship, Ito Kish and Rajo Laurel's latest collaboration is an exciting one for both hosts and homeowners
Two prominent Filipino designers, one exciting collaboration. When I asked Ito Kish what he and Rajo Laurel have in common about design, the answer was simple. "Our designs have stories," he shares. Perhaps at the moment, the most important one to know is their friendship. Twenty years ago, Laurel was featured as an artist-in-residence at Ito’s Greenbelt store. Here, he showcased a collection of throw pillows that exemplified his talent for curation and his keen understanding of fabrics. What resulted was a decades-long friendship and—unknowingly at the time—a future of incredible collaborations.
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The idea was conceived in December 2021. Over a year later, shoppers can lay their hands on tangible tablescape decor that will excite any homeowner or host. “Rajo and I loved collaborating on these pieces as we both love entertaining guests," shares Kish. "There were several ideas, but we decided to do tablescapes that can be part of our daily life."
Above Photo: Rosario paper placemat
Above Photo: Josefina paper placemat
Photo: Rosario paper placemat
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In the collaboration are paper placemats and linens. For one, the Rosario candelabra paper placemats are available in five colours, inspired by the original candelabra in Kish's Rosario collection. They have been reimagined and transformed into beautiful constellations that add vibrancy and dynamism to the table. Another paper placemat is the Josefina, inspired by a furniture piece of Kish's. Playing around with the symmetry of the lounge chair it was named after, the placemats feature a unique kaleidoscopic print.
Above Photo: Rosario table linens
Above Photo: Rosario table linens
Photo: Rosario table linens
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Lastly is the Rosario candelabra table linens. They are a set which includes table runners, a placemat, napkins, and a coaster, all of which come in two colours, blue or gold. "It was a pleasant experience collaborating with Rajo," shares Kish. "He and his team were very professional. Nice to see a different take on his design, from furniture to fashion."
Above Ito Kish and Rajo Laurel
Ito Kish and Rajo Laurel
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Evident in his designs, Kish's life is full of exciting stories and new perspectives. His advice has always been to "do something unexpected to spruce things up". Currently, he is working with other collaborators, including Federico de Vera and even the restaurant Toyo Eatery. "For sure, the Toyo collab is about food," he says mysteriously.
An epicure himself, Kish has also recently opened his cafe, with storytelling at the forefront of its ethos. "The ITO KISH Café was created to provide a space for sharing stories, of quiet moments of repose and recharge mainly for store clients—from interior designers, architects, artists, to homemakers and design enthusiasts," he says.
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Images: Courtesy of Ito Kish
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