As featured on The Philippine Star last May 14, 2022
The hallmark of Filipino design is tied to the country's unique tropical environment - from the materials endemic to the islands to the humid climate they’re specifically made for. All these come into consideration when curating one’s home for the summer.
Summer is the time to bring out pieces made from organic materials that offer cooling relief. Think items that are cool, breathable, and built from natural fibers like rattan, jute, seagrass, or hemp - because nothing beats comfy lounge chairs to sink into and while away a stressful summer day.
Wooden tables and rattan chairs make for great options on dining set-ups or as patio furniture. Add some leaf-print cushions, patterned textile rugs, wicker lounge chairs and you have yourself a relaxing resort-style indoor setting. Common rooms could also use wooden wall decor and eclectic accents from marble and stone artisans.
Colors are a great way to add a modern spin to the traditional Filipino aesthetic, a look that uses a blend of rustic neutral palette, and wood-earthy tones with a touch of beige or white. Pair wicker furniture with vivid hues of bright tangerine and lemon, while accentuating with quirky nature-themed accents.
Shaped by a culture of hospitality and a heritage of craftsmanship, Filipino furniture-making is helmed by local artisans inspired by traditions held in social spaces meant to gather the family.
For furniture eCommerce shopITOOH, advocating for the ingenuity of these craftsmen requires a touch of technology in order to give them exposure while bringing convenience and ease into the way they sell their wares.
“Tech enhancements are important in our mission to inspire Filipinos to develop a love for curating their own spaces, while championing the promise and the potential of local design,” shares Andrew Bercasio, Chief Homestyle Officer of shopITOOH.
Their wide variety of proudly Filipino-made offerings come from a roster of brands that include hero labels like Artelano 11, Prizmic & Brill, Thomas & George, and Travelfund by SiriusDan.
Original designed pieces from Calfurn, Biara, and BS Napes, were also recently added to their already impressive showcase from Jed Yabut, Manang PH, ADR Rattan, Plastics by Manila Automat, Philippine Treasures Inc., Marblecrafts, Ruff Trading, and more.
Aside from committing to champion homegrown craftsmanship, shopITOOH gained the trust of these local merchants by offering them access to digital storefronts amplified by accessibility and a frictionless user experience.
