Rustan’s Designers’ Circle 2025 partners with Philippine Institute of Interior Designers
Rustan’s continues to recognize exceptional living with Rustan’s Designers’ Circle 2025—an initiative that celebrates brilliant design minds while enriching the Filipino home.
This year’s partnership with the Philippine Institute of Interior Designers (PIID) brings together the expertise of four interior designers who each crafted vignettes that reflect their individual aesthetic and the upcoming trends—all sourced from Rustan’s extensive collection of local and world-renowned home brands.
Whimsical chic
An icon in Philippine design, Cynthia Almario invites you to step into a living room that radiates whimsical chic, where sophistication meets a playful spirit.
Luxurious furniture from Poliform and Flexform formed the backbone of the space, showcasing exceptional design and quality that offer a sense of comfort and style. Almario took advantage of merchandise available at Rustan’s.
“I infused the room with vibrant colors and quirky shapes from Jonathan Adler to create a delightful contrast to the refined furniture. My idea is to create an enchanting environment that invites exploration, blending various sumptuous materials that harmonize to provide a unique sensory experience,” Almario said.
Upon entering, the meticulous attention to detail becomes strikingly evident, with every piece curated to inspire joy and creativity. This living room stands as a beautiful fusion of modern elegance and charming whimsy, inviting you to relax and immerse yourself in its captivating charm.
Elegance and craftsmanship
Cindy Fernandez-Beltran’s design vignette, “La Dolce Isla”, explores the fusion of European elegance and Filipino craftsmanship. It showcases how global design icons like Fornasetti can harmonize with local materials and forms to create a cohesive, culturally layered environment.
“The concept is hinged on the belief that Fornasetti’s iconic look—known for its surreal motifs and bold monochrome palette—can be seamlessly integrated into tropical, locally grounded interiors. By pairing his signature aesthetic with the warmth and texture of Filipino design, the vignette reimagines maximalist European charm through a distinctly island lens,” Fernandez-Beltran explained.
The space unfolds in three parts—a formal dining foyer, a main dining area, and an outdoor cocktail nook.
“Each zone flows naturally into the next, with thoughtful layers and a balanced mix of elements—proving that when global and local design sensibilities meet, the result can be both elevated and deeply rooted,” she added.
Heart of hospitality
With artful table settings, textured surfaces, and an inviting palette, Cecil Ravelas’ living and dining room vignette captures the heart of hospitality.
“In the rush of daily life, we often forget to feel. That’s why our homes must become sanctuaries—spaces that breathe, hold beauty, and speak to the soul. Each piece of furniture, every artwork, every cherished object is more than décor—it is nourishment. They restore, inspire, and elevate our sense of home—reminding us of who we are, and what brings us peace,” Ravelas said.
Effortless extension
Ann Dee-Santiago wanted to create a space that feels like an effortless extension of the home—a lounge-dining experience in a lanai.
“The inspiration came from the pace of real life—how busy we all are. In the middle of all the hustle and traffic, one thing we all truly value is slowing down and sharing happy moments with close friends and family. This set up invites that—a relaxed space with fresh plants, centered around a big wooden table with cozy chairs, and a dining set up that feels easy, welcoming, and not formal,” Dee-Santiago explained.
“I wanted a place where you can hang out during the day with coffee, or stay up late with good conversation and a bottle of wine. This design is about making space for connection, comfort and simple joys. In a busy world, true luxury is finding the time—and the space—to just be together,” she added.
Designer showcase
These vignettes will remain on display this month at the 5th level of Rustan’s Makati.
This extended showcase gives customers the chance to discover how Rustan’s exceptional merchandise can be seamlessly incorporated into their own homes as they explore each designer’s unique vision and uncover creative possibilities for reimagining personal spaces.
