By Bryle B. Suralta
Celebrating its 51st year, the Philippine School of Interior Design (PSID) introduces “JUXTAPOSE: Espasyo at Panahon,” an “inventive” graduation exhibit that focuses on reviving historic structures with modernized design elements.
The exhibit, which was created by the graduating batch of 2018, explores adaptive reuse of old buildings and sites, reviving and repurposing the structures for functions fit for modern-day society.
Co-presented by Santolan Town Plaza and in partnership with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), the exhibit showcases 17 booths that challenge proponents of cultural heritage conservation.
“JUXTAPOSE” asks audiences and developers to continuously seek creative solutions in the restoration and rehabilitation of historic structures. At the same time, it taps into the sense of heritage among Filipinos while providing a much deeper understanding and appreciation of our own cultural and historical identity.
The exhibit is divided into three galleries: Tahanan, Pangkalakal and Pang-industriya, giving forgotten buildings creative design concepts as bars, cafes and specialty stores, wellness centers, among others.
Tahanan is focused on residential structures, such as the iconic “Bahay na Bato” and other featured booths like “The bar beneath…in San Juan,” “The Vigan Atelier,” “Small Space, Big Living,” “Modern Filipino Haven,” “Bridal Boudoir” and the “Marahuyo Spa and Tea House.”
Meanwhile, the Pangkalakal gallery showcases booths reminiscent of Escolta and Avenida Rizal, paying homage to old Manila with “La Moneda Bookshop and Café,” “CC Café + Creatives,” “Little Café Museum,” “Café 308,” “Kusina Aduana” and “Below Zero Gelateria.”
As for Pang-industriya, the gallery highlights the possible design solutions for old industrial sites. Visitors may observe this in booths like “13 Fit Street,” “Dor-Moderno,” “Station No. 15,” “Polo Estacion,” and “KM 102 Gentleman’s Barber Lounge.”
The exhibit is ongoing until October 31 at Rockwell Santolan Town Plaza in San Juan City. Admission is free.
