For its fifth year in the Philippines, the Tatler Homes Design Awards celebrated the country’s top designers and architects
“What does it mean to have good taste?” was the question Tatler Homes Philippines editor Jet Acuzar asked at the fifth iteration of the Tatler Homes Design Awards. “Is it restraint, discernment or a willingness to take risks? How much of what we call ‘good taste’ is really a reflection of the culture, class and moment from which it emerges?”
Such a thought-provoking question was immediately at home in the meditative Yawaragi Restaurant of Hotel Okura, where guests gathered to celebrate the best of Philippine design. Held on August 27, the event was made possible with the support of lead sponsor Newport World Resorts, gold sponsor Shang Properties and supporting sponsors Crate & Barrel and Metal-lite.
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“We live in what is increasingly described as the Anthropocene, a term that recognises the extent to which human activity has become a force shaping the planet itself,” mused Acuzar. “For those of us concerned with design, it is a particularly pertinent idea. Design is how we quite literally make our mark on the world.”
No one understands this responsibility more than the Philippines’ premier architectural firms, interior designers and furniture designers. Their impactful interiors elevate functionality with unique facets of self-expression. Altogether, they orchestrate environments that adapt to diverse experiences over time, maintaining timeless flair while staying ahead of modern trends.
This year, the jury panel was composed of Ramon Antonio, Kenneth Cobonpue, Cyndi Fernandez Beltran, Budji Layug, Jonathan Matti, Manny Miñana, Anthony Nazareno, Anna Sy and Jorge Yulo. Over the past several months, they examined each project before compiling a list of the most innovative, compelling entries that exemplified each award category. The elegant Issa Litton hosted the night’s ceremonies, unveiling each winner to the enraptured audience.
The awardees in each category highlighted the importance of balancing functionality with intentional design and expressed their gratitude for the recognition of their projects. In particular, Paloma Urquijo Zobel De Ayala commended JJ Acuña, with whom Ayala Land collaborated on Parklinks Design Center. “Thank you for making us think outside of the box and creating a wonderful experience for us,” Zobel De Ayala enthused.
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Above Manny Miñana, Bong Recio and Jet Acuzar at the Tatler Homes Design Awards 2026 in the Philippines

Above Budji Layug, JJ Acuña, Paloma Urquijo Zobel De Ayala and Jet Acuzar at the Tatler Homes Design Awards 2026 in the Philippines
Meanwhile, the architect Bong Recio expressed his appreciation for the award bestowed upon South Palms Resort and Spa in Panglao, Bohol. Representing the SCSY and Rchitects Inc, Recio said: “It was totally unexpected, and I thank the team for this meaningful collaboration.”
The other winners for this year are Tuktugaok by Chary Aboitiz for Best Living Space; Ang Katawan Ko Exhibit at Museo Pambata by Nazareno/Lichauco for Best Use of Colour; Karrivin Plaza for Best Innovative Design; Aurelia Residences by Miguel Rosales of Caramel Inc and Shang Robinsons Properties Inc for Best Use of Art; Cabinet 01 by Brian Ver for Tahanan Furniture; Gallery House by PXP Design Workshop for Best Architectural Concept; Tina Ocampo for Tastemaker Award.

Above Gina Mohnani, Ana Lorenzana De Ocampo, Ching Cruz, Tina Cuevas, Nikki Tang, Irene Martel Francisco, Joy Rustia, Duday Tuason, Pepper Teehankee, Joel Rustia

Above Sumptuous dishes laid out for the guests at the Tatler Homes Design Awards, hosted at the Yawaragi restaurant of Hotel Okura

Above The 2026 iteration of the Tatler Homes Design Awards, hosted at the Yawaragi restaurant of Hotel Okura
The Tatler Homes Design Awards celebrate Acuzar’s challenge to show that “what is beautiful, useful, lasting and responsible in design need not be mutually exclusive. These visionary designers possess an extraordinary ability to push the boundaries of self-expression while maintaining a deep respect for each space’s functionality.
Altogether, the event highlighted how Filipino perspectives can breathe new life into the spaces we inhabit, constantly steering each abode into more purposeful and inspiring directions. By blending creativity with practicality, they ensure that every space they touch is visually striking yet remains usable.
Their contributions highlight the evolving landscape of Filipino design, where innovation and tradition coexist harmoniously. These designers show that the Filipino approach to design goes beyond aesthetics and one’s changing tastes over time.
As the Tatler Homes Design Awards celebrates its fifth year, it continues to highlight the interplay between a global context and Filipino sensibilities, allowing Filipino innovation to flourish wherever it lands on the map.
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Credits
Photography: Ian Santos
Photography: Mon Mangila




















