PHusion, an interior design exhibit, dissects the blend between Filipino artistry and other global cultures
This year’s Philippine School of Interior Design (PSID) graduating batch will showcase 12 specially crafted exhibition booths that explore the dynamics of Filipino culture, history and pop culture with that of other cultures across the globe.
These young and upcoming interior designers have used traditional Filipino materials, such as capiz and solihiya, to create a unique aesthetic melding together, both local and exotic architectural nuances.
‘PHusion’ will be open from October 1 to 31 at the Greenfield Tower in Mandaluyong City. Attendees can expect several interpretations celebrating cultural diversity and ingenuity, resulting in remarkable, new design perspectives.
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America

Above PH x America booth "Fillenium" by Ma. Stella Bagro, Romeo Gabriel Conge, Rovina Angelica Manuel, Rosana Bandola. (Photo: Philippine School of Interior Design)
This open-concept kitchen space uses vibrant colours and gold accents in tribute to the American Hollywood Regency Style. The black-and-white checkered flooring pays a nostalgic tribute to the classic American diner.
Australia

Above PH x Australia booth "Yakka" by Franchesca Eunice Co, Reina Kristina Sempio, Kharen Charmaine Urbano, Maria Katrina Challoy (Photo: Philippine School of Interior Design)
‘Yakka’ is translated from the indigenous Australian word for hard work. This home office space is embellished with dot art that reflects traditional Aboriginal art. The Philippines’ culture is apparent in using materials such as burlaps and rattan.
Brazil

Above PH x Brazil booth "A Diversão" by Chey De Guzman, Irish Monique Cube, Reichel Alessandra Baytan. (Photo: Philippine School of Interior Design)
A Diversão
, meaning fun, is an entertainment area meant to showcase the warm cultural nuances of Filipino design featuring striking colours and natural finishes complete with tropical plants.
Egypt

Above PH x Egypt "Ikaw at Ako" by Janiz Karen Adlawan, Katrin Miriel Araja, Katrina Marie Balkin, Nicole Mercado, Joana Mannel Lipana. (Photo: Philippine School of Interior Design)
The grandeur and functionality of both Filipino and Egyptian architectural design are evident in this sitting room setup with its wood panels and maximalist art pieces. Hieroglyphics are used instead of baybayin, which translate to “Ikaw ang aking Tahanan” (you are my home) and “Mahal kita, magpakailanman,” (I love you, forever), respectively.
France

Above PH x France booth "L’amour du Monde Entier" by Alma Marie Lagman, Kristin Dominique Ramos, Bettina Sophia Ejercito, Mary Rose Glovelle Palileo. (Photo: Philippine School of Interior Design)
This lavish sitting room, L’amour du monde entier
(Love from around the world), incorporates Filipino wood, capiz and solihiya with a Rococo-inspired French style, complete with reflective surfaces, a chandelier and an elegant chaise lounge.
Italy

Above PH x Italy booth "Semantiӄa" by Jana Loise Cruz, Jeynna Francesca Meria, Sophia Denise Ignacio. (Photo: Philippine School of Interior Design)
The Ilocano Inabel is a prominent design feature in this contemporary bathroom space. It is reminiscent of the Tuscan style of Italian interior house design, with its heavy wood trims contrasted with soft ecru walls.
Japan

Above PH x Japan booth "Pitokaja" by Joan Dominique Vinco, Kaila Patricia Caido, Victor Jay Flores, Sophia Isabelle Serrano. (Photo: Philippine School of Interior Design)
The theme of the number 8, which symbolises ‘growth’ in Japanese culture, is prominent in curved, circular motifs dominating this vibrant bedroom design, along with Filipino natural resources such as wood, stone, capiz, bamboo and rocks.
Nicaragua

Above PH x Nicaragua booth "Relajarse" by Andrea Maureen V. Severino. (Photo: Philippine School of Interior Design)
Using limewash walls and woven materials signifies a connection to the environment. This bathroom’s ambience is akin to being immersed in a tropical environment. Gold accents were used to reflect the culture of gold production in Nicaraguan history.
Persian

Above PH x Perisa booth "Kanlungan" by Sheina Rose Gina, Karen Cabalquinto, Isobel Merici Dator, Erica Leona Chua. (Photo: Philippine School of Interior Design)
This bedroom features design elements akin to traditional Persian vernacular architecture. The Persian affinity for vibrancy, curved ceilings and open space is both contrasted and combined with the natural palette of Filipino materials.
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Credits
Images: Philippine School of Interior Design




