Exploring Rustan’s Design Circle 2025 through the eyes of 4 female interior designers

For Cynthia Almario’s vignette, one word comes to mind: whimsical. Her vignette features Jonathan Adler’s works, which pair craftsmanship with unexpected cheekiness. “The room balances sophistication and a playful spirit,” she enthuses. “I wanted each pocket of space to have its own personality.” 

The foyer features a Poliform table complemented by white accents, before leading into the living room with an exquisite layer of textures and patterns. The space balances jewel tones with a mid-century touch, especially through the geometric shelving full of trinkets. These small details testify to her eye for detail, turning an ordinary room into a museum of playful, eye-catching pieces. 

This level of curation may seem intimidating, but Almario is ready with some easy tips. “Don’t overthink it: this has to be your happy place, it has to resonate with you,” she says. “Examine your habits: will I stay on the sofa? Do I prefer lounging in my bedroom?” Allowing your collection to grow over time means experimenting with different fabrics and accessories. For Almario, there is no wrong answer. “Surround yourself with objects you love and gravitate towards,” she encourages. This will imbue the space with more of your personality and create harmony.” 

In case you missed it: Earth, wind and iron: how Yola Johnson’s unique design philosophy comes to life in her Manila home

The beauty of Cecil Ravelas’s vignette is in the eye of the beholder: is the couch shaped like a woman’s lips, or an unfurling leaf? Each piece of furniture is intentionally chosen to spark conversations, balancing functionality with a sleek form. “Living rooms are communal spaces where we swap stories, but these pieces also have stories of their own to share. I don’t want to leave them behind glass cases where no one interacts with them,” she says. “When they’re in the centre of the room, they add new layers to the conversation, representing stories from their travels or shared milestones.” 

For Ravelas, it’s essential to take a break from a busy lifestyle. “Our home is a sanctuary that should nourish our souls once we return to it,” she says. Her philosophy continues in the dining area, which features a solid marble dining chair complemented by soft leather chairs. Here, Ravelas highlights moments that nourish both body and soul. “As Filipinos, the dining room is the heart of many celebrations–why not incorporate these artistic pieces into those nurturing moments?” she asks. 

It is clear that Ravelas values community. This happens within the home and through opportunities like the Rustan’s Designers’ Circle. “We get to exchange our best practices and experiences, learning from each other,” she says. “It also enhances our creative process and makes us better designers. We get to challenge each other’s work. By doing so, we lift each other up.” 

Related: National Artist Arturo Luz’s genius lives through ‘Improvisations’ by Rustan’s for the Arts

Ann Dee-Santiago’s vignette gives viewers a glimpse into an island getaway. “The first thing that came to mind was how busy we all are,” she says, echoing the sentiments of her professor, Cecil Ravelas. “I wanted to create a space for friends and family to meet up without feeling too formal, focusing more on cosiness.” The lanai setup thus places tropical serenity at the forefront, perfect for a catch-up any time of day. 

“I wanted to bring the outdoors in,” she says, referring to the lush plants strewn throughout the vignette. There is a solid wooden table with a bench and Kenneth Cobonpue dining chairs, creating an atmosphere of comfort and ease. A painting by muralist Tara Soriano ties the entire space together, adding dynamic textures to the centre of the lanai. 

“I’m exploring the luxury of time and space through each detail,” she says. For Dee-Santiago, sensitivity to the climate is essential. Working with textured materials like wood and rattan adds character to the space without overwhelming it. Indoor plants also exude a cooling effect, creating the perfect place to lounge on a sunny day.

NOW READ

Considered creativity: exploring Pristine Lampard’s Dalisay Collection

Mother’s Day gifts, surprises, and more at Rustan’s

8 eco-minded resorts championing responsible travel in the Global South