Another win for another piece of Cobonpue, proving once again that Filipino design, creativity, and ingenuity can stand shoulder to shoulder— or even stand higher — with the world’s best. Cobonpue here is none other than Kenneth Cobonpue, Cebu-based industrial and furniture designer who is the country’s most cited and awarded artisan in this field.
Cobonpue’s creation, the Dolce Bed, was adjudged “Best in Show” in the Bedroom Category by the International Furnishings & Design Association (IFDA) Excellence in Design Awards during the High Point Market 2022. Meanwhile, his Barnacle Collection was named among the finalists in the Lighting Category.
The High Point Market (the Spring Edition), which opened last April 2, 2022 and will run until April 6, is one of the world’s premier home furnishings events. On its website, the High Point Market, held at High Point in North Carolina, USA, is considered “the largest furnishings industry trade show in the world.” More than 100 countries are represented in this semi-annual event, which gathers home furnishings buyers, interior designers, architects, and furniture makers.
On the other hand, the IFDA is the “voice” of the furnishings and design industry. Its members are “executives and companies professionally engaged in the design, production, distribution, promotion, communication, or education in the furnishings and design and/or related industries.” Formed in 1947 in New York City by a small group of women in the curtain business, IFDA now has evolved into 11 chapters with international members representing all facets of the furnishings and design industry.
Through the years, Cobonpue has been known for his unique furniture designs that honor Filipino raw materials such as abaca, bamboo, or rattan. These materials are expertly and creatively woven, designed, and elevated to become showpieces in the world’s most elegant homes, top offices, and luxurious vacation getaways. His designs are iconic manifestations that Filipino craftsmanship can rise at world-class levels.
