When designing spaces, climate-responsive design is too often considered only after the architecture and interiors have been resolved. And yet, thermal comfort, energy performance, and indoor environmental quality should be integral to the design process from the very beginning.
WEAVE by YOVAL JULIANTO, LADY VIONA YACUP (DREAMLABS ARCHITECTS) of INDONESIA, DAIKIN DESIGNER AWARDS 2025
“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. 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.” Cecil Ravelas, President of the Philippine Institute of Interior Designers (PIID) began.
DESIGNING COOL SPACES: Conversations on Spatial Planning and Perfecting Air
Designing Cool Spaces sparked a lively conversation on how design helps to shape how we feel and experience spaces. Hosted by DAIKIN Philippines in partnership with the PIID, this gathering of industry professionals brought forward topics relevant for designers, architects, and even homeowners. These seminars included: AC Fundamentals for Better Spatial Planning, Integrating Airconditioning into Interior Spaces, Outdoor Unit Planning Strategies, just to name a few.
DAIKIN Airconditioning Philippines Inc.’s General Manager, Arianne Lamug, explained: “This series of talks explores how design and smart cooling systems can work hand-in-hand.”
It is shaped by the brand’s philosophy of “Perfecting the Air” through environments that feel balanced, comfortable, and soothing to the senses. Through events like these, DAIKIN goes beyond its role as a provider of cooling systems, establishing itself as a partner of the design community.
DAIKIN Designer Awards: An Open Call for Filipino Designers and Architects
The event also officially launched the DAIKIN Designer Awards (DDA) Asean 2026 in the Philippines. Lamug shared: “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.”
THE STERIC SPES by ARCH. GERARD TAMBUNAN AND ARCH. DIANA PARDEDE OF INDONESIA (GETS ARCHITECTS), DAIKIN DESIGNER AWARDS 2025
First launched in 2020, DDA was first conceived as a regional initiative for Indonesian architects and interior designers. “Since then, it has evolved into a platform for highlighting young, upcoming talents in interior design and architecture,” said Lamug. The DDA has also created opportunities for both the brand and the design community to come together with a shared goal of seamlessly integrating indoor quality air into contemporary living spaces. In 2025, designers from Malaysia were also invited to participate.
This year, the Philippines and Singapore are joining the conversation. “The competition is open to all professionals and students.,” Lamug explained. “Participants can send finished projects or conceptual designs for residences or commercial spaces.”
She further explained 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.”
DAIKIN Philippines has also partnered with the PIID in rolling out this regional competition in the country. “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 clarified. This pairing further underscores a long-standing commitment for elevating design standards and promoting smarter, sustainable 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,” said Ravelas, who is also the only Filipino in this year’s jury. She is joined by esteemed interior designers and architects from 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.”
The DAIKIN Designer Awards is open to all architects, interior designers and students from the Philippines, Singapore, Indonesia and Malaysia. Conceptual and completed projects across residential and commercial space are welcome.Interested participants may register until August 31, 2026 via <https://daikindesignerawards.daikin.co.id/pre-register>
