MAKATI CITY – SoFA Design Institute, the country’s leading fashion school, and renowned designer bag brand ARANÁZ joined forces to collaborate on a captivating summer display featuring the creativity of the Institute’s students.
Inspired by the theme “In Living Color,” the collaboration showcases a set of window installations conceptualized by SoFA’s Interior Design students – highlighting the collection of the signature bag brand.
The installation features a seaside vignette in vibrant colors and unconventional materials such as a striking handwoven wicker coconut tree, striped surfboard, and candy-colored striped pedestals adorn the space for a playful yet luxurious mood.
These installations can be seen in both ARANÁZ Greenbelt and Rockwell stores. “We’re excited with our collaboration with ARANÁZ, the partnership gives our students the unique opportunity to showcase their talents in design and creativity,” said Loralee Baron-Soong, the founding Executive-Director of SoFA Design Institute.
“This collaboration exemplifies the power of mission-driven brands that empower communities and inspire others. It also solidifies the SoFA mission to open doors of opportunities for our students with established Filipino companies and brands” added Soong.
Amina Aranáz-Alunan, ARANÁZ’ owner and heir visionary, underscores the need to promote Filipino craftsmanship and designs to a global audience.
“ARANÁZ is an avenue that introduces SoFA student work to the market. It is our pleasure to collaborate with students and to provide them with a stage to showcase and express their creative work outside the classroom” said Aranaz.
SoFA, known for its hands-on learning style and renowned network of industry bigwigs, provides a nurturing environment for students to participate in design projects, internships, and industry partnerships.
“In SoFA, when there is an opportunity to immerse students, we give it to them,” says Aaron Paglicawan, the institute’s Interim Interior Design Chairperson. “There are things that you can’t learn in school; you learn them from actual practice”, he added.
Taking pride as she sees their designs come to life, Bernadette Raralio says, “It is rare for students to be given a chance to design for such well-known brands.”
“Having to conceptualize and design, and then see it come to life is a dream come true.” added Raralio.
The project, led by Bernadette Raralio, along with Ivy Bondoc, Aubrey Madridejos, Cha Barretto, Shenell Bote, and Pax Carpio, highlights the creative vision and talent of the SoFA Interior Design students.
