The Philippine School of Interior Design–Ahlen Institute (PSID–Ahlen) is giving the nation’s most cherished season a refreshing twist through its 48th graduation showcase, the Designs of Christmas Exhibit (D.O.C.E.), unveiled at GH Tower in Greenhills.
The exhibit gathers 12 student-designed installations, each offering a modern reinterpretation of Christmas—explored through culture, character, color, and chronology. Moving beyond the familiar red-and-green, the works highlight how Filipino design sensibilities continue to evolve—seamlessly blending heritage, innovation, and personal storytelling.
“Through the years, Filipinos have evolved in their design sensibilities,” noted interior designer and PSID professor Pojie Pambid. “Gone are the days when homes displayed giant spoon-and-fork sets or tinikling dancers on the wall. Today, design is more curated, more personal, and more experimental—even at Christmas.”
The 12 Christmas Design Interpretations
- Brutalism – A festive yet raw entertainment room with concrete textures and warm lighting, made for conversations and play beyond screens.
- Victorian – A nod to grandeur and steampunk whimsy, with brass details, bold colors, and Arcane-inspired touches.
- Art Deco – Manhattan elegance meets Bohemian warmth through deep hues, velvet seating, and golden accents.
- Mexican – Inspired by Las Posadas, blending solemn lighting with vibrant Otomi patterns and papel picado panels.
- Brazilian – A lively mix of Rio Carnival energy and Filipino Christmas spirit, full of rhythm, curves, and tropical textures.
- Filipino (Simoy ng Pasko) – A dining lanai inspired by Simbang Gabi, built on faith, serenity, and togetherness.
- Velvet Frost – Chocolate plum and mint tones paired with a sculptural tree lamp, reimagining holiday warmth.
- Liloura Lush – Lilac, icy blue, and ivory create a festive yet timeless elegance.
- Spiced Ember – A whisky lounge palette of russet and flame, offering warmth, intimacy, and refinement.
- Noël Aurora – Inspired by the Northern Lights, shifting from serene day hues to crystalline night tones.
- Urban Cosmopolitan – Sleek origami-inspired geometry, anchored by a bold red tree for a bachelor pad holiday vibe.
- Rustic Soirée – A French provincial Christmas, complete with a glowing hearth, stone archways, and a suspended Christmas tree.
For Joel Benitez, president of the graduating batch, the showcase is more than just an exhibit: “Altogether, the exhibit reminds us that Christmas is a living tradition that unites us across time, culture, and imagination.”
The Designs of Christmas Exhibit runs from September 27 to October 31 at GH Tower, Greenhills. A celebration of design, culture, and holiday spirit—it proves that Christmas, much like art, is always evolving
