Objects of nature, objects of legacy

This year’s Manila FAME champions nature in all its varied facets, of which the Philippines is rich in. First, nature in the physical world; the country’s pride is its abundance in natural resources, be it on land or sea. The other is nature as an inherent quality—its heart and essence.

The featured exhibitors at this year’s Manila FAME, through which the theme “Objects of Nature” is deeply embedded, highlight the best of nature in both meanings, staying true to the trade show’s long legacy of advocating for world-class Filipino artistry and craftsmanship. The theme also spotlights sustainable and biophilic design—not just as a global design trend, but also as a cornerstone of Filipino design by making use of and constantly being inspired by the fruits of nature.

Philux, one of the country’s most respected manufacturers, joins Manila FAME for the first time—a timely endeavor as they celebrate their 45th anniversary, too. Going strong since its humble beginnings in 1980, Philux is continuing the family legacy of crafting fine furniture that is not just luxurious, but more importantly, conscious and locally crafted.
“Filipino craftsmanship has always been at the heart of Philux. We aspire to have a global mindset and simultaneously remain rooted in our homegrown values,” says Stephanie Kienle Gonzalez, president and managing director of Philux.

Philux’s offerings at Manila FAME include signature pieces, some of which are reworked and reinterpreted to follow the brand’s vision for its 45th year by moving forward and “building a bridge between past, present, and future—bringing new life to its landmark pieces and rekindling classic designs.” This both contrasts and marries contemporary design and the brand’s tradition.

Take, for example, the Butaca chair, shown in both classic and modern interpretations. Made with solid wood and handwoven outdoor resistant fibers, the Butaca chair—classic featuring a traditional solihiya woven pattern, and the modern version a woven grid—“are testaments to the company’s commitment to history and local craftsmanship while exploring modern furniture making,” the brand says.
Other pieces of note include the Renzo pieces that highlight the brand’s foray into circular design. The Renzo Savannah Pedestal and the Renzo Pouf Melange make use of wood off-cuts and excess upholstery fabrics, respectively, upcycled and transformed into sleek accent pieces.

What are some unexpected or exciting developments in the industry you’ve seen and incorporated in your line-up?
Collaboration has become a key element in many design executions, both locally and internationally.
For Manila FAME, Philux has partnered with local artisans who are experts in their respective fields, and these creative fusions have brought our product designs to a new frontier. From experimenting with new materials to expanding the brand’s portfolio in circular design, our pieces on display at FAME will be a reinvigorated approach to our signature of conscious luxury, crafted locally.

What are important considerations and non-negotiables that you have in reinterpreting or innovating on classic designs? Especially this year, since you aim to bridge the past, present, and future in your pieces.
When reinterpreting a classic design, the brand always maintains a harmonious combination of form and function. The soul of the piece must remain intact—whether in the curved back and long arms of the Butaca Classic Chair, or in the height and reliable storage capabilities of the Aparador. The Philux design ethos focuses on designing modern pieces that retain a timeless appeal, while incorporating thoughtful elements of surprise like new forms of weave or LED lighting.
When reinterpreting traditional forms, we draw inspiration from Filipino weaving traditions and translate them through modern proportions and refined craftsmanship. Our non-negotiables lie in maintaining integrity in both material and process—every piece must honor our heritage while serving the needs of contemporary living with purpose and ease

How important are trends to your business? What design trends or market demands have you considered or incorporated, if any?
We are aware of global design trends, but we don’t design around them. Our aim is to create modern pieces with enduring appeal—designs that feel relevant today and timeless tomorrow. That said, we’ve embraced values that align with our philosophy of conscious luxury: the use of natural materials and multifunctionality—principles that support both longevity and adaptability in our clients’ homes.

What can people expect to see from you at this year’s Manila FAME?
Manila FAME is the brand’s first trade show in over two decades. Joining it for the very first time is a significant milestone for the company’s 45th anniversary. The team has prepared for a bold foray into this established exhibition space, with new product developments and creative material explorations that will show event-goers an elevated dimension of Philux.
We are excited to participate in the industry’s collective endeavor to promote Filipino craftsmanship and share it with a global audience.
