Genteelhome and Ar. Royal Pineda’s Ugnayan Collection an ode to modern Filipino artistry and craftsmanship
Genteelhome, a lifestyle brand that curates tailored furniture pieces, strengthens its commitment to redefining luxury furniture by promoting Filipino craftsmanship, forging collaborations with key talents, and achieving international recognition.
In its latest foray to further imprint itself in the local market, genteelhome launched Ugnayan Collection at the Manila FAME 2024, the country’s premier trade show for quality home, fashion, and lifestyle products.
Special collab
The Ugnayan Collection is a special collaboration between genteelhome and renowned architect Royal Pineda.
“Ugnayan” is a communal living collection with the latest home pieces reimagining a modern Filipino way of living. Each Ugnayan piece features diverse and flexible materials and design elements that are inspired by today’s Filipino culture. Woven textures, carved wood, and fluid lines reflect the rich heritage of Filipino architecture interplayed with contemporary aesthetics.
The goal of the partnership is to create a platform for Filipino artisans to show their creative mettle, aligning with Ar. Pineda’s philosophy of Modern Filipino Architecture, which focuses on simplicity, sustainability, and excellence. Where mass production is prevalent, the collaboration subscribes to one vision—people will return to what’s handmade, original, and authentic.
“We’re embracing the challenge of modernization. In the sea of mass-produced furniture, we want to give the spotlight to Filipino artisans. For us, human touch is important,” said Ar. Royal Pineda. “Ugnayan pieces add character to the living space.”
At the Manila FAME event, genteelhome founder and principal designer Katrina Blanca de Leon shared: “At genteelhome, we go beyond creating bespoke furniture. We highlight Filipino talent, nurture connections, and build a legacy of quality and innovation in every piece we produce.”
Showcasing Filipino craftsmanship
De Leon has always wanted to put Filipino craftsmanship on the pedestal, and the collaboration with Ar. Royal Pineda supports genteelhome’s mission to showcase Filipino design to a global audience.
The skilled artisans from Pampanga, for example, are worthy of appreciation.
Pampanga is known to be a haven for talented artists. Wood-carving, pottery, lantern-making, and furniture-making are just some of the industries Pampanga and its neighboring provinces, Tarlac and Zambales, are known for. Kampampangan products are often exported to other countries, proving that Filipino craftsmanship is world-class.
The Ugnayan collection perfectly presents Kapampangan expertise to local and international visitors at Manila FAME.
Each piece showcases that inane Filipino talent of creating artisan designs mixed with contemporary elements. Because of the Kapampangan artisans’ human touch, “Ugnayan” furniture breathes life into spaces—making the room feel warm, welcoming, and authentic. Every piece tells a story not just of craftsmanship but also of the colorful and dynamic Filipino culture.
Sustainable design
De Leon shared that their goal for the Ugnayan collection to be sustainable goes beyond using eco-friendly materials. “It’s about creating jobs for Filipino artisans, preserving craftsmanship, and passing down these skills to future generations,” she emphasized.
“We want to be present globally. We envision Filipino furniture and design to be appreciated by the international audience and the Ugnayan collection is just a start,” De Leon declared.
