As I look back on 2024, I’m filled with equal parts pride, gratitude, and a slight urge to take a nap—it’s been that kind of year! Packed with challenges, wins, and a fair share of late nights, this whirlwind of a year has taught us about resilience, connection, and the incredible stories that unfold when you design with intention.
Designing Moments That Matter
One of our early highlights this year was completing the design phase of a significant 6,000 sqm government project. It’s an ambitious undertaking, one that challenged us to think critically about how large-scale spaces can serve their communities effectively. While the project is set to break ground in the coming months, its design has already paved the way for exciting possibilities.
We also had the opportunity to transform bank sites for a leading financial institution across the Philippines. Banking spaces often carry a reputation for being purely functional, but these projects challenged us to think differently. By focusing on trust, innovation, and customer connection, we turned traditional environments into experiences that truly elevate the brand.
Then, as the year drew to a close, we were thrilled to be awarded another project with a different top-tier financial institution. This milestone feels particularly exciting as it marks the beginning of a collaboration that will see us craft a banking experience unlike any other. Leveraging our expertise in workplace strategy, and experiential design, this project will push us to reimagine the banking environment as a dynamic and engaging space that responds to the needs of today’s customers.
A personal highlight this year was the photography studio project. This wasn’t just any client—it was the studio that captured my 18th birthday celebration. Designing their new headquarters felt like a rare full-circle moment, blending nostalgia with the privilege of shaping a space that represents their next chapter.
Meanwhile, our residential projects have officially broken ground—literally. With earthworks underway, we’re laying the foundation (pun intended) for homes that will hold countless stories for the people who live in them.
A Year of Growth—Personally and Collectively
This year wasn’t just about the work—it was about the people behind it. We celebrated the first anniversary of our Philippines office, and while it wasn’t without its challenges, it was a year of growth, grit, and moments we’ll always remember. Like any good first year, it had its hiccups, but it also gave us reasons to celebrate and a foundation to build on.
Our team leaned into wellness this year, finding creativity in unexpected places. We ran (yes, I’ve discovered group runs are surprisingly fun), played badminton, arts and crafts, and sharpened our skills with learning sessions. These moments weren’t just about team-building— they were about realising that when you take care of yourself, your work follows suit.
We also expanded our network, becoming members of the Australian-Philippines Business Council (APBC) and the Australian-New Zealand Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ANZCHAM). These partnerships have already sparked exciting opportunities, and we’re just getting started.
Lessons That Shape the Future
2024 has taught us that design isn’t just about solving problems—it’s about asking the right questions, embracing challenges, and staying open to the unexpected.
As we look ahead to 2025, we carry forward this year’s lessons and momentum. Our vision is clear: to continue designing spaces that inspire and connect while pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
Thank you to our clients, team, and partners for trusting us with your visions. Your collaboration, trust, and shared belief in the power of design have made 2024 a year to remember. Here’s to a new year of creating, evolving, and thriving together. Cheers!
Always designing for impact,
IDr. Charisse Gail, MDes
Chief of Workplace Strategy and Principal Designer Studio-id8