Editor’s note: This article is an edited press release from B+Abble. Stay tuned for our exclusive and exhaustive recap of B+Abble 2022’s three keynote talks by Chunyan Cai of Atelier TAO+C, Don Lino of Lino Architecture, and artist Leeroy New.
Architects, art and design enthusiasts, and creatives gathered to celebrate the return of B+Abble 2022, the annual and much-awaited series of talks on contemporary design in the Philippines. Last September 17, Buensalido+Architects, among the country’s most renowned practices, relaunched its signature conference as a whole-day contemporary design and arts festival, featuring talks and panel discussions by local and international speakers, as well as musical performances by emerging talents.
As the world recovers from the effects of the global pandemic, this year’s theme “ReWind to ReWild” focused on sustainability and simplicity in our built environment, exploring conservation, creative renovation, adaptive re-use, and how other contemporary solutions can change the way we live and understand architecture for the better.
Chunyan Cai of Atelier TAO+C, a Shanghai-based multi-awarded design and architecture laboratory, headlined the event with the firm’s first talk in the Philippines. A repeat winner from the prestigious World Architecture Festival, Atelier TAO+C’s projects use humble, ordinary materials, but the precise detailing always manages to elevate the mundane. Co-founder Chunyan Cai talked about their firm’s process—semi-architectural, semi-interior—and how their design method allows people to see and experience beauty in simplicity. Architect Don Lino of LINO Architecture and artist Leeroy New also gave unique perspectives on preserving local culture and heritage through their work, tackling how sustainability should be a goal and a principle of design, not a gimmick.
For the first time, B+Abble also launched panel discussions called Projects, where individuals from multiple disciplines gave their unique perspectives on the festival’s theme. A high-caliber mix of architects, interior and industrial designers, trend forecasters, branding experts, and even circular economy advocates shared experiences and case studies, and engaged in discussions with each other and the audience members.
Almost 300 creatives spent the whole day in the verdant surrounds of Emerald Events Place in Antipolo, listening to the introspections and conversations of the speakers amidst cool highland breezes and unimpeded views of the city. Up-and-coming musical talents Coeli, Jarlo Bâse, Brass Rosette and Ysanygo bookmarked the talks with spirited performances. Now in its 8th year, B+Abble 2022 continues to inspire and challenge the creative community to use innovative, unique, and progressive thinking in exacting positive change. •
