For its third year in the Philippines, the Tatler Homes Design Awards 2024 brought together the leading architects and designers of the Filipino design scene for an evening of celebration and recognition. The event was held on August 19 at the Raffles Hotel Makati.

Tatler Philippines' Managing Director, Irene Martel Francisco, opened the event with heartfelt welcome remarks, paying tribute to the past, present, and future editors of Tatler Homes. She expressed her deep gratitude to former editor Mia Borromeo for her lasting contributions, acknowledged the dedication of outgoing editor Stephanie Zubiri, and warmly welcomed the incoming editor, Jet Acuzar, as the publication embarks on a new chapter.

“To all of the architects and designers in this room, you are all alchemists,” said outgoing Tatler Homes Philippines Editor Stephanie Zubiri during her message to the audience. “You transform the spaces, not just physically or aesthetically. You also transform the energetic quality of any space you touch.”

Indeed, the occasion gathered impactful architects and interior designers who elevate functionality with unique facets of self-expression and facilitate spaces that adapt to diverse experiences over time, maintaining elegance while staying aligned with modern trends.

Before the awards ceremony, guests mingled over the delicious food and drinks, which featured cuisines ranging from Japanese to Italian. They were also treated to exquisite wines and cocktails, such as the gin tonic and margarita on the rocks. 

This year’s jury panel comprised Ramon Antonio, Bill Bensley, Kenneth Cobonpue, Budji Layug, and Trickie Colayco-Lopa. Over the past several months, they examined each design before compiling a list of the most creative, compelling entries that exemplified each award category. The elegant Issa Litton hosted the night’s ceremonies, unveiling each winner to the excited audience. 

The awardees in each category highlighted the importance of balancing functionality with intentional design and shared their gratitude for recognising their projects. In particular, Dinesh Mohnani of Tarzeer Pictures showed his enthusiasm for winning the Best Use of Art category for the Solaire Resort North Art Collection. “It was truly an honour to work with the best artists in the country to complete this collection,” Mohnani said.

Meanwhile, Erick Yambao of Plontur Group emphasised the value of environmental responsibility in building the Kilyawan Farm Resort, which won Best Sustainable Design. “It is our responsibility to bridge the gap between man and nature,” he said upon receiving the award. 

Among the other winners are the A. Residence by Empire Designs for Best Living Space, Carlo’s Restaurant designed by JJ Acuña for Best Use of Colour, SV Glass Tree House by Lino Architecture for Best Creative Concept, PK House by 8x8 Design Studio, and Martine Ho for Tastemaker Award.

The Tatler Homes Design Awards celebrate the inherent magic found in the hands of what Zubiri aptly calls the “alchemists” of the Filipino design scene. By blending creativity with practicality, these alchemists ensure that every space they touch is visually striking and deeply rooted in usability and purpose.