Escape with tablescapes
In these times of turbulence, we find comfort in things that bring thoughts of joy and togetherness. Such as Christmas.
You feel it when you hear Josemari Chan’s songs being played on the radio. You see it and touch it at this yearly harbinger of Christmas — Rustan’s — which has creative Christmas trees and refreshing holiday settings ready as early as September. I just cannot resist their invitation to escape through tablescapes, and celebrate almost four months ahead of Christmas.
Last week, Rustan’s president Anton Huang unveiled the works of seven creatives — Sofia Zobel-Elizalde, Pam Gonzales-Lopez, Happy Ongpauco-Tiu, Miko de los Reyes, Jia Estrella, Michelle Suzuki and Myze Bangayari.
Anton, together with Jackie Avecilla, Nikki Huang, Nena Tantoco, Mike Huang, Cecile Hermoso and Dean Decker, presented seven Christmas vignettes, some of which were already being reserved by buyers during opening day.
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Sofia Zobel-Elizalde
I thought I saw soldiers from The Nutcracker marching on the table created by ballet patron Sofia Zobel-Elizalde. These wooden toy figures are a playful touch to the tablescape inspired by things close to her heart. Like the piña tablecloth and napkins which her mom Bea always brought out for special occasions. And the white magnolias which remind one of New York, her favorite city. And butterflies which she loves, adorning her tea set. Sofia also creates a bar area with rose champagne and single malt whiskey for both the men and women in her family. “Christmas is family, a wonderful time of the year of love, giving, sharing and memories.”
Pam Gonzales-Lopez
A botanical abundance is exactly what I expected from Pam Gonzales-Lopez, the creative behind Floret. But she went beyond my expectation as she planted a woodland whimsy — her tablescape where beautiful flowers bloom, and her Christmas tree so fearlessly wild with plants plucked from the forest. Raw elements from nature blend with fruits and flowers, a refreshing sight with moss-covered wooden animals. A guest from Davao couldn’t resist reserving the tree for her home this Christmas.
Jia Estrella
The blue is unmistakably that of Yves Saint Laurent’s Majorelle garden in Marrakech; it makes me feel nostalgic for Morocco. Jia Estrella‘s two tables are clearly the work of an artisan. The big table has reupholstered chairs covered with canvas hand-painted by Jia herself. Also hand-painted by her is the kiddie tabletop (“because I imagined my children enjoying it”), with curvy wrought-iron chairs in blue. Jia also put blue gems on her tree and on her ears. She wears dangling earrings she crafted herself, inspired by Morocco’s exotic charm.
Miko De Los Reyes
Blending handsome heritage with a modern vibe, architect Miko de los Reyes’ work looks easy on the eyes and feels comforting for the soul. He puts huggable bears covered in blue-and-white fabric for his Christmas tree. Then on a vintage settee which he found in an art gallery, he uses the same blue-and-white fabric for upholstery. Miko honors heirloom treasures and gives them a contemporary touch.
Happy Ongpauco-Tiu
This Christmas, we’re embracing evening glamour through a vignette that radiates timeless elegance,” says interior designer and restaurateur Happy Ongpauco-Tiu. Golden accents are matched with sleek black and champagne tones, from the crystal glasses to chic Fornasetti china and gleaming cutlery. Every detail on her table looks very Happy.
Michelle Suzuki
My Ikebana-inspired vignette is a tribute to both the season and the culture that holds deep personal meaning,” Michelle Suzuki shares. She merges Japanese culture and festivity in “A Red Reverie” which centers on a red Christmas tree embellished with cherry blossoms. A flowing pearl garland is matched with gold and lacquer-inspired accents.
Myze Bangayan
Christmas is about slowing down and savoring conversations over tea, so I chose an eclectic Christmas afternoon tea set-up,” explains Myze Bangayan. “It’s a mix of textures, colors and little details that spark joy. My design embodies balance and warmth that celebrate both the peaceful and joyous side of Christmas.” This interior designer invites guests to pause and reconnect.
