Renowned designer Jor-el Espina opens his new Manila atelier in the heart of Makati—an intimate creative haven that gives way to inspiring shopping experiences, collaborations, craftsmanship, and discoveries.
Jor-el Espina is taking his beloved designs closer to Manila clientele with a brand new atelier located at the seventh floor of One Corporate Plaza in Arnaiz Avenue, Makati. Decked with elegant fabric accents and showcasing collections both new and old, the 120-square meter space is where patrons of the Filipino contemporary design can connect with stories of craft, creativity, and collaboration. The new atelier also arrives just in time for the holiday season, so guests looking to gift beautiful designer pieces to loved ones (or themselves, as a special treat) can peruse to their heart’s content in the fresh, cozy space.
“Setting up an atelier was a natural progression for us,” shares Espina in a statement. “We didn’t just want to build a space to showcase our designs. Our intention was to create an immersive experience for our clients.”
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Design Sanctuary
The atelier is indeed as immersive as Espina wanted it to be thanks to its sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere. “There was no formula to the design. Actually, I didn’t hire a designer. I’m the one who designed everything, I even chose the paints for the wall,” he tells Lifestyle Asia. The atelier is an extension of Espina’s design codes. Filipino elegance and warmth, infused with modern industrial design sensibilities, echo throughout the expansive space.
“We wanted it to feel intimate yet aspirational, a reflection of the women who wear our pieces,” he states. “I want clients to feel comfortable. While I sell some of my retail pieces at the malls, this place is really for clients who want to have a more personal appointment with me with a designer.”
A bespoke fitting area serves as a key highlight of the atelier. Here, patrons can immerse in the rituals of dressing. It is also an intimate corner where their “dream designs come to life.” One side of the space functions as a display corner. Pieces on display pay homage to the rich textures, patterns, and intricate details borne from the Philippines’ rich culture of craft.
Expanded Offerings
The atelier has also inspired a thoughtful expansion into other lifestyle categories. “We remain focused on the creation of beautiful contemporary Filipiniana garments,” the designer explains. “We are equally excited about introducing other products that reflect our sensibilities and aesthetics.”
For instance, one of Espina’s more recent series of works, the Cruise Collection, takes center stage in one section of the atelier, with its vibrant summer patterns, tropical weaves, and textured petal and seashell accents.
“The latest collection was actually first shown in Singapore for the Asia-Pacific Textile and Apparel Supply Chain Expo & Summit. So it really focuses on celebrating our Filipino heritage,” Espina elaborates. “The pieces are made of 100% piña fabric, and have been naturally dyed and treated.” It’s clear that the collection has been well-received, as certain pieces have already been purchased.
Artisanal accessories and a tight edit of home pieces add a new dimension to the Jor-el Espina retail experience. The atelier will also be home for special design collaborations as well as limited edition designs tailored just for the atelier’s clientele.
As Espina himself puts it in a statement, the new atelier transcends its typical definition: “This isn’t just a place to shop. It’s a space for exchanging stories, inspiration. Here, design dreams are made tangible. We endeavor to redefine the shopping experience by turning every visit into a sensorial journey into the world of contemporary Filipino design.”
Photos courtesy of Before Deadlines.
