Leading through design

ˮReal estate and design have traditionally been industries where women have had to work twice as hard to be heard. Instead of seeing that as a challenge, I’ve used it as motivation to redefine leadership—not by following old structures, but by building new ones. At Hurray, leadership is rooted in collaboration, evolution, and a bold yet thoughtful approach to design.

Our philosophy is never one-size-fits-all. The built environment is deeply personal—homes adapt to shifting family dynamics, businesses thrive in spaces that reflect their identity, and transitional design ensures longevity and relevance. As a woman in real estate and design, I bring a sensitivity to these nuances, ensuring our projects are not just visually compelling but also intuitive and practical.

Innovation, for me, means pushing beyond aesthetics to rework the systems that shape how we live. Whether it’s integrating technology into human-centered environments, prioritizing lighting, or working with materials and color for immersive experiences, I strive to create spaces that are meaningful and forward-thinking.

Community-building has always been at the heart of Hurray. For 16 years, we’ve championed collaboration—uniting designers, suppliers, and artisans to shape a bold, evolving design culture rooted in a Filipino-global perspective.

Design is about people. At Hurray, mentorship is just as important as materiality. We’ve built a culture where emerging designers are encouraged to take risks, experiment, and find their voice. It’s not just about technical skills—it’s about learning how to negotiate, understand clients beyond the brief, and design with both intuition and strategy. These are the nuances that elevate design.

Beyond our studio, my role at PIID allows me to advocate for the broader industry. As Executive Director for Professional Development, I champion innovation, new technologies, and sustainable practices to elevate the profession as a whole.

Ultimately, I aim to help build an ecosystem where Filipino design isn’t just recognized—it’s celebrated globally. Whether through our work at Hurray, our collaborations, or mentoring young creatives, I hope our impact goes beyond the spaces we shape and helps define the future of design itself.

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