The prestigious American Standard Design Award Philippines recognized the creativity of young Filipino visionaries in developing safe and ergonomic multi-generational residential bathrooms.
LIXIL, makers of pioneering water and housing products across the globe, initiated the competition.
Themed A Home to Love, A Space for Everyone, the competition challenged emerging talents to transform a six-to-seven-square-meter toilet and bath into a haven to recharge and rejuvenate for families with elderlies, parents and children.
Specially conceptualized for those in high-mass housing, shared and multi-use areas served as an integral part of the equation.
The entries were meticulously evaluated based on the following criteria: purposeful design, inviting style, originality and feasibility in mind.
Inspired by the warmth of close family ties typical among Asian homes, De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) Interior Design student Aevan Georgeline de Jesus clinched the Top Award for her 360-degree layout entitled THE GRID.
Nestled at the center of the house, the winning proposal ensured interactions without disrupting functionality.
Each area was strategically separated so users can multitask simultaneously, including the use of the shower, sink, toilet, vanity and laundry.
THE GRID, which resonates regional themes and colors, featured a reminder board to facilitate activities in and out of the home.
“Designing for families required more than just patterning their needs and making spaces functional – the initiated interaction, opportunity for personalization and warmth made THE GRID an ideal space where the bathroom is reinvented without stripping away the chance to grow as a family,” de Jesus explained.
De Jesus will represent the Philippines at the regional stage and will compete against the national winners from Singapore, Cambodia, Vietnam, Thailand, and India.
University of Northern Philippines in Vigan City, Ilocos Sur Architecture student Apryl Precious Gem Estavillo finished Second Place.
With the aim to go beyond the boundaries of time and space, Estavillo’s BeYou.nd spotlighted a quintessential minimalist design that evoked purity, simplicity and cleanliness.
Focusing on convenience and ambiance, it highlighted the presence of smooth edges and is well-equipped with handrails, grab bars, step stools, and large openings for easy access and support.
“Bathrooms are not just a room – it’s a space where we start and end the day. It’s part of our life where we can be free and be our greatest hiding spot to escape,” she noted.
Benilde Interior Design talent Margaret Therese Hagad bagged Third Prize.
Motivated by the idea that a solution can be found in the problem, Hagad’s Weathering Walls explored the concept of aging to address issues of individuality, difference, as well as the changing needs of a multigenerational family.
The dual-purpose layout functioned as a flexible module with doors that move to separate and join.
It likewise showcased long-lasting, reliable, and practical materials that promote longevity and sustainability, and at the same time, age beautifully that added to both its function and integrity.
“For the children, safety and interdependence were prioritized. For the parents, ritual and refuge was sought. For the elderly, freedom and support was obtained,” Hagad explained.
The jury was composed of industry experts, to include PDP Architects CEO Ar. Cathy Saldaña, Atelier Almario Co-founder and Creative Director IDr. Cynthia Almario, and WTA Architecture and Design Studio Principal Architect Ar. William Ti and Associate Director Ar. Arvin Pangilinan.
The announcement of Asia-Pacific Grand Champion will be held on Wednesday, May 24, 2023.
For more information about the winning entries, visit https://asda.americanstandard-apac.com/winners-2023.
