When it comes to local Filipino furniture, you might think you’ve seen it all. We’d beg to differ until you’ve checked out the innovations of Zarate Manila. We’ve asked Jim Zarate-Torres, Creative Director and Designer of Zarate Manila to tell us more about them and how they come about these simple, yet fresh pieces.

Hi, Jim! Why don’t you tell us  a little bit about Zarate Manila?

We are a Pampanga-based design studio and manufacturing established in 2015. We offer design services and innovative conception in the fields of furniture design and lighting, as well as exhibition design and art objects. 

I work hand in hand with my team of welders and artisans in Pampanga. Our focus is on metal handcrafting, creating objects that are balanced and discreet but also warm – creating a feeling of joy and beauty are inherent in our works. Our designs play with Filipino sensibility and display influences of art, fashion and industrial design, reflecting a modern contemporary style without being overtly trend-driven.

What drives you?

I always keep in mind offering timeless pieces and novelties in beautiful materials. Creating 'borderless' designs for local and international clients, the brand's objective is to position itself as an ambassador of proudly Philippine-made products, by bringing up to date details and concepts.

Can you tell us more about your design process? What’s your secret?

On the decision to pursue furniture design specifically, what fascinated me is how objects can affect one's emotion, what furniture makes of us. A sense of humor and a thought-provoking attitude to materials and forms are our common practice. We work intensively with metal, its technique and manipulation is what we're passionate about innovating. I think these are the things that make Zarate Manila unique, we immerse ourselves in the creative process and we try to make our designs with different unpredictable approaches.

What do you think sets you apart? What makes you Beyond Ordinary?

I describe my works as simple but intricate, functional and optimistic. I see design as a way to communicate a certain process or simply as an object to tell a story. Graphic lines and formal shapes are frequent characteristics of ZM's works, although an inherent playfulness is also discernible. I often turn my attention to a single product or process and study it in great detail. I think the key to a successful product development is full understanding of the process.

What’s your typical clientele like, and how do they get in touch with you?

We cater to people/clients with a similar perception of how we approach design. The community can get in touch with us mainly through Instagram.  

Catch Jim Torres and IDr. Karizza Uy in an upcoming free webinar hosted by Hurray Design this coming Friday, October 30, at 3 pm. Register for your free slot now!