Tatler Philippines Magazine - May 2026

In this issue

This month, we celebrate inspiring individuals and innovative ideas that shape our view, spark creativity and strengthen our global connections. As our yearly design issue, it was a true pleasure to create—something I hope you will find just as inspiring.
We begin with two visionaries whose work combines heritage with innovation. Claude Cecil Gurney, founder of luxury wallpaper brand de Gournay, invites us into a world where hand-painted wallpapers transform from simple decoration into immersive artworks, each panel reflecting tradition and a profound commitment to beauty. Equally, Lay Koon Tan, co-founder of Nature Squared, offers a compelling perspective on sustainability in design. From her Cebu-based factory, she transforms natural materials like eggshells, feathers and mango skins into elegant surfaces, demonstrating that luxury and responsibility can coexist with grace and purpose.
In Future Forms, we present a curated selection of recent and upcoming design projects aimed at inspiring and engaging discussion. This article delves into the changing landscape of design at local and regional levels. It highlights spaces that redefine how people gather and move—such as new buildings, shopping malls, museums and coffee shops—that impact urban life.
Our cover story takes us to Villa Miani in Rome, where Pia Wurtzbach Jauncey explores the enduring charm of Italian style. Photographed in the Eternal City and featuring Bvlgari high jewellery and watches the shoot took place amid uncertainty—just as conflict erupted, unexpectedly disrupting travel plans. Pia, who lives in Manila and Dubai with her husband Jeremy, shared her concerns about the situation affecting everyone, which she discusses in the cover article. Despite this brief and uncertain period, photographer and makeup artist Justin Louise Soriano captured a timeless image that embodies resilience, elegance and Italy's classic splendour.