World-renowned Filipino furniture designer Kenneth Cobonpue recently held a two-day preview sale at his Makati showroom, which was open to all BPI preferred and private banking clients, including those with BPI Gold Card, Skymiles Platinum and Amore Platinum.
The two-day event was followed by another two-day promo, also at Kenneth’s showroom. This time, the promo was open to all BPI credit card holders.
If you missed the four-day special sale, don’t despair because it certainly won’t be the last. As part of their commitment to their customers, BPI will be holding similar promos for their private and preferred clients, as well as regular BPI credit card holders in the near future.
In a short interview with BPI, Kenneth shares sources of his inspiration and what makes BPI an ideal partner in making his products as well as his brand more accessible to a bigger number of people.
On his inspirations for his latest creations, Kenneth says, “I am inspired by nature, everyday things and childhood dreams. Whimsy is something that’s always present in my work.”
Among the pieces he showcased were the “Apollo,” “Dolly,” “Peacock,” “Limbo,” and “Village.”
The “Apollo,” says Kenneth’s marketing team, “is for those whose imagination and childlike wonder never left them. This spaceship for the young at heart has an open weave that allows air to flow through for a comfortable and leisurely rest.”
Then there’s the iridescent green and blue “Peacock,” a modern take on the traditional wicker chair. “Like the regal bird, this lounge chair truly stands out among the flock.”
Finally, there’s the “Dolly,” a dainty lounge chair that’s made form comfort. “Inspired by the traditional beach chair, ‘Dolly’ has a special vintage charm that all it’s own.”
All BPI clients were welcome at his special preview sale, but if he were to describe the “perfect client,” Kenneth cites those who are “well-travelled, conscious of the environment and appreciative of the value of handcrafted pieces.”
In fact, the recent event was Kenneth’s second year to partner with BPI. His desire to continue giving his clients flexible payment schemes on designer furniture inspired him to continue his partnership.
“And it’s best done with BPI, who takes care of their clients by giving them the best service. It’s a trusted brand among Filipinos, and we’ve had a close relationship with them over the years,” he says.
The soft-spoken design giant also shares his views on the supposed new renaissance that’s currently happening in the country’s design industry. Does he see it moving forward or backward?
“Forward always,” he declares. “The everyday challenge is to change the perception that luxury can also mean made in Asia, not just in Europe. We are more appreciative now of everything local from art to food to fashion. It’s a good time to be a creative in the country.”
Here’s more good news from Kenneth. The Cebu-born designer is working on more unique and more conceptual spaces.
“I have been trying to work on women’s bags and suitcases for the longest time,” he reveals. “But when I do something, it has to be different.”
