Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray, a household name known for her beauty and grace, has once again proven that her talents and exquisite taste go far beyond the pageant stage.
By FRANCHESCA L. TUAZON
In collaboration with genteelhome, Catriona Gray recently launched her first-ever furniture collection, named PAYAK, which is also the brand’s first outdoor collection. PAYAK champions Philippine heritage and artisanship while ensuring its functionality and quality.
Each piece in the PAYAK Collection tells a story, drawing inspiration from various elements of Philippine culture and landscape. One standout piece is the Mayon Chair, which takes after the iconic Mayon Volcano in Albay. Its curvaceous silhouette mirrors the volcano’s supposed perfect cone, while the warm pink and orange colors mimic the molten lava coming down from its slopes.
Mayon Chair; Balik Tanaw Side Table
Another key piece is the Balik Tanaw Side Table, an intricately designed side table inspired by nostalgia and sentimentality. “Someone gave me a piece of Inabel, and I didn’t know what to do with it,” Catriona shared. This sparked the idea for a keepsake table where one could store cherished photographs, sketches and mementos, including gifts. Made of a solihiya-accented teakwood frame, the piece doubles as a conversation piece.
The Pinay Accent Chair is designed with a book lover in mind. “I wanted a chair that I could lounge in, whether I’m reading or just unwinding,” Catriona explained. The high-backed chair, with its handpicked color palette, gives both comfort and aesthetic appeal. Being detail-oriented, Catriona personally oversaw every stage of the design process, ensuring that each shade and material followed her vision along that of genteelhome’s principal designer and CEO Katrina Blanca De Leon.
Pinay Accent Chair; Kapit-Bisig Shelving Unit; Beh & She Side Tables
The perfect partner to the book lover’s chair is the Kapit-Bisig Shelving Unit, an open storage shelving system that has colored abaca weaving that pays homage to generations of Filipino weavers.
Another noteworthy piece is the Beh & She Side Tables, a tandem side table that symbolizes friendship and connection. Adding to its charm is the origin of its funny name. “They have to be together,” Catriona said. “Beshie sila.”
Beyond aesthetics, Catriona’s PAYAK Collection aims to showcase the talent of Filipino artisans and their masterful craftsmanship. “Each piece was made lovingly by hand, not by machines,” she said. By choosing to work with genteelhome, a brand that locally sources materials and taps Pampanga-based artisans, she is assured that the collection uplifts local communities while preserving the tradition of Filipino furniture-making.
“Filipino craftsmanship deserves to be recognized on a global scale,” she said. “We have such a distinct flair and taste that can be appreciated anywhere in the world.”
A portion of the proceeds from PAYAK Collection will be donated to a charity of Catriona’s choice, ensuring that her work continues to make a meaningful impact. “This collaboration isn’t about making money for me. It was really an expression of my creativity and a way to support the artisans who bring these pieces to life.”
