Designing cool
‘Good design is not only about aesthetics. It is about creating environments that are comfortable, energy-efficient, sustainable and ultimately enhance how people experience a space.’
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Daily Tribune‘Good design is not only about aesthetics. It is about creating environments that are comfortable, energy-efficient, sustainable and ultimately enhance how people experience a space.’
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WEAVE by Yoval Julianto.
PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF DAIKIN Philippines
THE Steric Spes by Arch.
Climate-responsive design is often treated as an afterthought, considered only after the architecture and interiors have already been finalized. Yet thermal comfort, energy efficiency, and indoor environmental quality should be fundamental to the design process from the very beginning — not simply additions made at the end.
“Too often, decisions about cooling systems are made late in the process or are driven by constraints that arise during planning, construction, or budget discussions,” Cecil Ravelas, president of the Philippine Institute of Interior Designers (PIID), begins. “As designers, our instinct is often to integrate or conceal these systems so they complement the overall design. But climate-responsive solutions are not something to simply hide — they are fundamental to how a space performs and supports the people who use it. Good design is not only about aesthetics. It is about creating environments that are comfortable, energy-efficient, sustainable and ultimately enhance how people experience a space.”
Conversations on spatial planning and Perfecting Air
To encourage this shift in thinking, Daikin Philippines, in partnership with the Philippine Institute of Interior Designers (PIID), recently hosted Designing Cool Spaces, a gathering that explored how thoughtful design influences the way people feel, move and experience their environments.
Bringing together designers, architects, and homeowners, the event featured seminars on topics including AC Fundamentals for Better Spatial Planning, Integrating Airconditioning into Interior Spaces, and Outdoor Unit Planning Strategies. Each session highlighted the importance of considering cooling systems as an integral part of spatial planning rather than a technical requirement added later in the process.
Daikin Airconditioning Philippines Inc. general manager Arianne Lamug explains: “This series of talks explores how design and smart cooling systems can work hand-in-hand.”
The program reflects Daikin’s philosophy of “Perfecting the Air” by creating environments that are balanced, comfortable, and soothing to the senses. Through initiatives like these, the company continues to position itself not only as a provider of cooling solutions but also as a partner to the design community in shaping healthier, more sustainable spaces.
The event also marked the official Philippine launch of the Daikin Designer Awards ASEAN 2026. Lamug shares: “This is the first time that the Philippines will be joining the Design Awards as the competition continues to expand its reach across the ASEAN region.”
This year, the Philippines and Singapore officially join the regional platform. “The competition is open to all professionals and students.,” Lamug explains. “Participants can send finished projects or conceptual designs for residences or commercial spaces.”
She furthers that through this design initiative, the depth, range, and character of Filipino talent is expected to shine through. “As Filipinos we are known for our creativity, resourcefulness, and spirit of innovation. Daikin Designer Awards is the perfect stage to showcase local talent, especially our young, emerging designers.”
To bring the competition to the country, Daikin Philippines partnered with the Philippine Institute of Interior Designers. “Even before the DAIKIN Designer Awards, we have been working closely with the PIID to push forward our mission of improving air quality through design,” Lamug clarifies. The partnership reinforces both organizations’ shared commitment to elevating design standards while promoting smarter and more sustainable built environments.
“It is a call for the design community to find solutions and push the boundaries especially at a time where quality of air is becoming more and more of a concern,” says Ravelas, who is also the only Filipino serving on this year’s jury. She is joined by respected architects and interior designers from across the region. “The Daikin Design Awards emphasizes how the quality of air is an important factor in good design. Most importantly, it is a chance for us to bring out the voice of the region, share our local narratives and become a part of this important conversation around designing for quality air.”
