Known for combining classic elegance with modern style, Rock Robins has made a name for himself in the Philippine design scene, turning spaces into stunning works of art. This week, I had the chance to sit down with him and hear his story.
Rock was exposed to his family business early in life. Their company imports tiles and other finishing materials from Spain, Italy, and China. Traveling abroad to attend international exhibits for their family business, La Europa Ceramica and Robins Design Gallery, inspired him to design his own spaces, whether residential or commercial.
“I would say I like to experiment with different design styles based on what my clients want in their space, adding my signature touch of a welcoming and homey environment. Over the years, with experience, I am proud to say that the spaces I work on are now more polished and refined but still stay true to my philosophy—that a space needs to be livable and designed for its proper function,” Rock said, describing how his design has evolved.
Rock likes to draw inspiration from his travels. Every time he visits a different country, he gets to experience various design styles, as he finds it very interesting to learn how different cultures interpret these styles. Another source of inspiration comes from fashion, which showcases a play of different material textures and color combinations.
“Being a Filipino designer, it is very important to know what the local market needs and how the spaces are being used. For example, we, as Filipinos, are very much family-centric; hence, the space needs to be designed to make the family closer. We are also spoilt with choices of different local materials and furniture pieces that are internationally loved and could be proudly used in any residential or commercial space to add that Filipino touch,” Rock said about how his Filipino heritage influences his design.
Like in most endeavors, Rock knows that collaboration is key. The first step in his projects is always understanding what the client wants. Then, it is vital that they sit down with his design studio team for the design drawings and perspectives.
Rock adds, “Complete working drawings are a must before coordinating with contractors and suppliers. During construction, I monitor progress and update clients to avoid delays or mistakes. Once done, my team and I accessorize the space and prepare it for turnover.”
Rock’s design philosophy has always been to deliver a space that the client wants or needs.
“I always tell my clients that the most important thing in our collaboration is that I am able to deliver something they would want to live in or make their business reach their target markets. When I say collaboration, it is the client’s wants and needs fused with my design aesthetic. Both parties need to trust each other for a successful project to be realized,” he continues.
Rock also emphasizes the importance of learning about sustainability in interior design. His design studio maximizes the use of sustainable materials and locally sourced items to cut down on CO2 emissions. However, he admits that the Philippines is still very far from its international counterparts in terms of sustainability.
By traveling to different places, Rock gets to see new trends in design. He also likes to follow blogs and social media, where he can instantly see new products and materials that can be used in local projects.
His most rewarding interior design project to date was designing his parents’ house.
“It’s just really nice to make them feel the love from the space that I created for them,” Rock said.
As we draw the curtains on this exploration of the world of interior design through the lens of a Filipino designer, it’s clear that the artistry, cultural richness, and innovative spirit of the Philippines shine brightly in every space created.