CRAFTED ELEGANCE: Embracing Modernity with Nature’s Riches
By: April Rose Hina
South Sea Veneer is renowned for their expertise in marquetry, an exquisite art form that entails adorning pieces with veneer to create intricate and ornate patterns that captivate the eye. Recently, the brand showcased its unparalleled artistry as one of the featured exhibitors in Manila FAME 2023.
A standout among their best-selling creations, the Dolores Nightstand is expertly fashioned from raffia wood and complemented with natural weaves and veneer accents. This piece was brought to life through a collaboration with Tony Gonzales, a distinguished curator of the Manila FAME 2023 Design Commune.
South Sea Veneer’s marketing officer, Michelle Reyes shared that Tony Gonzales graciously guided their brand through the design and production process of this captivating piece. “The collaboration with Tony was very interesting because we've been given various shapes to work on and we were able to achieve the designs.”
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South Sea Veneer caters to export destinations, such as the US and Australia, but in a bid to broaden its global presence and make way for more collaborative opportunities, the brand is planning to bring their products to countries like Saudi Arabia and Singapore. “We already have clients in both local and global landscapes but we are eagerly looking forward to expanding our reach,” Reyes said.
Established in 2002 in Mabalacat, Pampanga, the company started as a subcontractor of wood veneer panel lamination to other furniture makers in the local market. Over time, the brand developed its own line of furniture to further grow their business.
When asked what makes Philippine products special, Reyes expressed pride in the exceptional quality, craftsmanship, coupled with the innate creativity and resourcefulness of Filipino artisans.
South Sea Veneer lives up to its reputation of being a marquetry master by employing highly skilled woodworkers dedicated to making aesthetically pleasing and functional furniture.
