The Manila Interior Design Summit 2024 redefined the industry with groundbreaking collaborations and innovative insights from global leaders

Words Mika Reyes
Photos courtesy of Manila Interior Design Summit
July 31, 2024

The Manila Interior Design Summit 2024, now in its second year, transcended its status as a mere event, emerging as a landmark moment that united interior design professionals, industry leaders, and enthusiasts from across the globe. Held as a 3-day festival from July 18-20 in the vibrant Bonifacio Global City, the summit served as an unequivocal testament to the transformative power of collaboration within the design realm.

Setting the Stage for Collaboration

The summit's grand opening ceremony on July 18th set a resounding collaborative tone for the ensuing three days. The "Festival of Collaboration" theme permeated every aspect of the event, underscoring the critical importance of cross-disciplinary partnerships in driving innovation. The Philippine Institute of Interior Designers (PIID) illuminated the vast potential of collaborative endeavors, emphasizing the collective power of diverse minds.

Established to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and ethics in the interior design industry, PIID has been committed to advancing the practice of interior design in the Philippines. Celebrating its rich 60-year history this 2024, PIID champions Filipino collaboration within the industry, promoting inclusivity that enriches the design ecosystem. PIID's tireless efforts to unite diverse voices within the design community exemplified their unwavering commitment to fostering a vibrant, collaborative environment. By organizing events like the Manila Interior Design Summit, PIID empowers designers with a platform to share knowledge, explore groundbreaking ideas, and forge invaluable professional networks.

Global Insights and Lessons from Industry Leaders

The second day of MIDS unfolded as a whirlwind of captivating presentations and dynamic discussions. Benjamin Stevenson of Foster + Partners captivated the audience with his research-based design philosophy, showcasing projects that spanned the globe, from the Bloomberg office in the UK to the Murray Hotel in Hong Kong and the BWDC Residential Tower in Manila. His emphasis on the seamless integration of cultural adaptation into contemporary design resonated deeply, illuminating the creative possibilities that emerge when diverse perspectives intertwine.

Jonathan Matti, a celebrated luminary in Filipino interior design, delved into his extensive experience with local heritage projects. He sparked thought-provoking conversations about striking the delicate balance between historical preservation and the demands of modern living, drawing upon examples like the restoration of the Malacañang Palace, the Laperal Mansion, and the Goldenberg Mansion. Matti's eloquent presentation highlighted the resounding success of collaborative efforts with local designers, underscoring the transformative potential of collective creativity.

Kezia Karin, the sole female speaker, brought a unique perspective from Indonesia. Her insights into the pivotal role of collaboration in respecting and representing cultural heritage, fostering innovation, and tackling complex challenges left a lasting impression. Her projects showcased how collaborative endeavors transcend barriers, cultivating a profound sense of place and community.

Vignesh Kaushik of Gensler Design, with his captivating presentation on the role of AI in today's design landscape, propelled the audience into the future. He showcased how cutting-edge technologies like AI and machine learning are revolutionizing design processes, augmenting efficiency and unleashing unprecedented creative potential. His assertion that technology serves as an ally rather than an adversary resonated deeply, offering a glimpse into a future where technology and creativity coalesce in harmonious synergy.

Alvin Tjitrowirjo, an Indonesian furniture designer, celebrated the timeless elegance of rattan and the enduring cultural significance of craftsmanship in design. He emphasized the designer's profound responsibility to bridge the realms of culture and space, underscoring how cultural roots imbue design concepts with purpose and direction. Tjitrowirjo's work epitomized the harmonious fusion of traditional craftsmanship with contemporary aesthetics, serving as a testament to the enduring relevance of cultural heritage in modern design.

Lyndon Neri concluded the day with a presentation that transcended the conventional, resembling a theatrical masterpiece. He explored the interplay of pairings and dualities in his work, leaving the audience captivated and inspired. His profound advice to create one's own dream when faced with misaligned briefs and sites resonated deeply, encouraging designers to embrace their unique visions. Neri's impassioned plea for designers to infuse their work with meaning and purpose served as a powerful and poignant conclusion to the day's proceedings.

Forging the Future of Philippine Interior Design Through Collaboration

Casting the gaze toward the future of design, MIDS underscored the pivotal role of collaboration in shaping its trajectory. Panel discussions and interactive activities provided attendees with invaluable opportunities to engage directly with the esteemed speakers, brands, and stakeholders from various fields in architecture, interior design, engineering, manufacturing, real estate, retail, and academe, among others, fostering a ripe environment for exploring new collaborative frontiers. A highlight of the entire festival was the thought-provoking discussion on the integration of culture, technology, and sustainable practices into design, sparking lively debates on identity, AI, and technology, fostering a fertile exchange of ideas within the summit.

The summit's resounding success would not have been possible without the unwavering support and enthusiastic participation of all involved. Industry partners, including Porcelanosa, Rimadesio, Furnitalia, Studio Dimensione, Abenson, Focus Global, Lazuli, and Dexterton, organized and hosted pocket events within the summit, creating opportunities for participants to enjoy knowledge and design exchange through activities ranging from collaborative paintings at Furnitalia to music and dance with Dexterton.

Another proactive supporter was the Asia Pacific Space Designers Association (APSDA), which has been part of MIDS for two consecutive years. APSDA, in partnership with PIID, launched the Accreditation Program called AP-ID-AP, marking a significant milestone in the field of interior design education within the Asia Pacific region. AP-ID-AP is set to transform the landscape of interior design education by upholding rigorous standards and ensuring quality education for aspiring interior designers with mutual recognition across borders. This collaborative initiative, undertaken by leading interior design associations who are members of APSDA and who already have existing accreditation programs in place, creates a comprehensive and standardized approach to continuous improvement in the interior design industry.

The Enduring Legacy of MIDS 2024

The Manila Interior Design Summit 2024 pushed the envelope on what the Philippine design industry can achieve. Inspired by Milan Design Week, the concept was driven by PIID, through the leadership of President IDr. Paolo Castro and IDr. Rossy Yabut-Rojales as the event chair. With the unique Philippine design landscape, the summit has created an identity of its own, now more than just a gathering of creative minds; it became a testament to the power of collective ingenuity and the transformative potential of collaboration. It served as a venue for a meeting of the minds, a beacon of inspiration, and an industry leader illuminating the path towards a more inclusive, innovative, and impactful design landscape.

For more information on the Philippine Institute of Interior Designers, you may reach out to the Director for Public Relations, IDr. Carla Mae D. Leonor at info@piid.org.ph or +639175582536.