Filipino Furniture Designers to Know and Appreciate

Know the Pros: Your Guide to the Top Filipino Furniture Designers

When it comes to interior design, Filipinos are some of the most talented and creative in the business. Not only do we follow trends, but we can also be proud of having professionals that develop them.

One needs only to look at the top interior designer trends to see how much influence Filipino design has on a global scale. Natural fibers, wood, bamboo, and other similar materials common in the Philippines have been featured time and again in international spaces.

In the 2024 Maison et Objet exhibit, the Philippines showcases creative household pieces by promising Filipino furniture makers and designers. Indeed, in the furniture design space, Filipino talents have undoubtedly made significant waves, showcasing exceptional craftsmanship and innovative creations.

This article will shine a spotlight on six renowned Filipino furniture-cum-interior designers whose works not only embody true craftsmanship but also seamlessly blend with modern interior design trends. From multipurpose furniture to bed frames and coffee tables, these designers have left an indelible mark on the industry.

Here are 6 Filipino furniture designers to know:

1. Kenneth Cobonpue

Hailing from Cebu City, Kenneth Cobonpue is an internationally acclaimed furniture maker, recognized for his mastery in crafting furniture using natural fibers. The Kenneth Cobonpue brand is a global one, counting Hollywood stars like Brad Pitt among its clientele, with Pitt reportedly purchasing a bed, some sofas, and a lounge chair for his home after seeing Cobonpue’s work in the Ocean’s Thirteen sets.

Kenneth Cobonpue is arguably most known for incorporating his industrial design prowess in using natural materials (particularly bamboo, buri, and abaca) and championing handmade artistry.

Moreover, Kenneth Cobonpue has become an inspiration for many young people as he fuses traditional furniture-making processes with a contemporary flair.

The unique brand has earned him numerous awards, including the prestigious Design for Asia Award and the Designer of the Year Award by Maison et Objet, placing him at the forefront of the global home design scene.

2. Bea Valdes

A Filipina designer making waves in the industry is Bea Valdes, whose creations have found homes among Hollywood celebrities and beyond. Valdes is not only an interior designer but also a master of creating stunning home decor and luxury accessories. Her trademark aesthetic could be described as light, refreshing, colorful, and fun.

Bea Valdes is known for her meticulous attention to detail and use of exceptional materials, including vibrant textures and pops of colors in plain spaces and surfaces.

3. Vito Selma

Vito Selma stands out as a Filipino furniture designer whose work is a fusion of technology and long-established craftsmanship. His chair designs, in particular, showcase an innovative combination of materials, such as bamboo and wood. Selma is a particular stand-out in the field because he doesn’t only create home accessories to beautify space, he creates functional and inspiring pieces too.

Selma’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of design has earned him numerous recognitions, including the Department of Science and Technology’s National Invention Contest and Cebu Next Expo’s Best Contemporary Design in 2010.

His creations bring a breath of fresh air to the furniture industry, capturing the essence of Filipino creativity.

4. Ito Kish

Ito Kish, a notable figure in Filipino furniture design, is celebrated for his ability to create spaces that exude timeless elegance, no matter how small or large. His collections feature a combination of art, fashion, and innovative design, making each piece a work of art.

Kish’s commitment to exceptional craftsmanship is evident in his various award-winning designs, particularly the Gregoria chair which catapulted the designer to fame. His personal touch and dedication to preserving the Philippines’ brand of craftsmanship set him apart in the world of interior design.

5. Jude Tiotuico

Jude Tiotuico, an industrial designer born and raised in Pampanga, has made a mark with his innovative and functional furniture designs.

Specializing in multipurpose furniture, Tiotuico’s creations seamlessly blend style and practicality. He is lovingly called the “Man of Steel” by many in the field because of his proclivity to use steel materials while keeping his furniture light and comfortable, evident in his sofas and end tables.

Tiotuico’s designs have gained international recognition, earning him a spot among the notable Filipino designers. Tiotuico’s work reflects a keen understanding of space and a forward-thinking approach to furniture design.

6. Budji Layug

Budji Layug is a pioneering Filipino furniture designer known for his dedication to promoting Filipino craftsmanship on the global stage. His collection of bed frames and coffee tables reflects a deep connection to natural materials and a commitment to exceptional craftsmanship. Layug’s work has been featured in various international awards, solidifying his position as a leading figure in the world of furniture design.

With a host of world-class furniture designers, there is truly no shortage of inspiration for young people and families who are looking to decorate their homes in the most creative of ways.

Whether you take cues from these awards-racking pros or budding designers from programs like Red Box Design Talent and OBRA Design Masterclass, the possibilities are endless

Create a Home Inspired by Filipino Furniture Designers in Camella

Filipino furniture designers have proven time and again that they can compete on the global stage, showcasing a perfect blend of traditional craftsmanship, technology, and materials sourced from the Philippines.

From Kenneth Cobonpue’s natural fiber masterpieces to Bea Valdes’ Hollywood-approved designs, these visionaries continue to inspire the next generation of Filipino talent to make their mark in the world of furniture design.

At Camella, we provide you with the perfect canvas to help you achieve your interior designer goals. Our homes are built to adjust to your changing needs and preferences, ready for the future of furniture and interior design.

Wherever you are in the Philippines, you can be confident that you can create a home where you can express your creativity freely and proudly. With a home in Camella, you can bring your dream home to life.