With pieces that evoke the bright airy breeze of a summer day, the Pampanga-based bespoke furniture atelier unveils its Payak collection.
Genteelhome has long been known for highlighting Filipino craftsmanship, showcasing the value of handmade furniture in every piece and collection they release. Katrina Blanca de Leon, principal designer and CEO of the homegrown Pampanga atelier, shares that they always aim for their pieces to have a deeper narrative and intention. “[It’s] not [just] having a beautiful piece in your home, but having something with meaning,” she shares of their creative process.
“We use only quality materials,” de Leon continues on Genteelhome’s ethos. “And of course, most importantly, it’s handcrafted and thoughtfully created.” She highlights that what makes Filipino furniture stand out in the market today is the way craftsmen really invest their time into it. “There’s a soul to our pieces,” she notes.
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With the launch of their Payak collection, their first outdoor range, which was made in collaboration with Catriona Gray, de Leon shares that they wanted to redefine what luxurious outdoor living can be with the new pieces. “Collaborating with Catriona Gray, an advocate for culture and craftsmanship, has allowed us to create a collection that truly embodies what Genteelhome stands for — elegance, sustainability, and the soul of Filipino artistry,” she adds.
De Leon has always made Genteelhome a collaborative endeavor, with a previous collection co-created with architect Royal Pineda. With the Payak collection, Gray’s influence is seen in how she infuses her identity into each piece. “When [Catriona] was designing each piece, it was like she was making kwento her memories,” de Leon shares. “Putting so much of herself and history into each piece.”
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“I’ve really enjoyed the avenue of designing for a few years now,” Gray shares on her past design projects — noting that the jewelry pieces she wore during her Miss Universe run, such as the iconic sun and stars ear cuff, were designed by her. With this collaboration, Gray wanted to express her quiet but vibrant perspective on furniture design. “I am a homebody,” Gray laughingly enthuses on her inspiration behind the collection. “Every detail has an intention behind it, has a meaning behind it.”
The Payak collection comprises outdoor summer pieces, which can also be set indoors, with a motif of materials that features teak wood, sturdy and colorful fabrics, and lampakanay rope. These materials evoke a warmth and homey energy, as well as highlighting the intricate, masterful work done by Genteelhome’s Kapampangan artisans.
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From the vivid fabric of the Mayon Lounge Chair that harkens to the bright hues of flowing lava, to the intricate solihiya weaving framed in the Balik Tanaw Side Table, the collection offers a variety of pieces that exude a laid-back charm and understated sophistication. “I like color, and I also just like conversation starters,” Gray shares on her influence and intent for the collection. “For me, it represents slow living — meaning slowing down, having intentional time with intentional pieces.”
Other standout pieces include the Beh and She side table set, an inseparable duo of teak wood pieces. The set is representative of two hands, as noted by Gray, adorned with brass bangles around each — reminiscent of T’boli bracelet jewelry. One of Gray’s favorite pieces is the Pinay Accent Chair, with its large curved arm rests, inspired by baro’t saya sleeves.
De Leon adds that more collaborations can be expected from Genteelhome, teasing possible tie-ups with more local and even international artists and designers.
The Payak collection is available via online orders at Genteelhome’s website. For more information, you can call 0917 128 7458.
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