We are pleased to invite you to our next in-person lecture with Denise V. de Castro of DEQA Design Collaborative.

REGISTER HERE VIA PEATIX!

Purpose-Driven, Resilient Design: Lessons from the Philippines on Community, Culture, and Local Materials
Date/Time: Thursday, August 28, 2025 | 18:00 – 19:00 JST
Location: Cosentino Tokyo Showroom (see address below)
CES Credits: 1 LU/HSW available for AIA members

Lecture Description:
This lecture explores how a boutique, resource-conscious Philippine practice addresses globally relevant architectural challenges through socially impactful, adaptive, and material-driven design strategies. The presentation is framed around three interrelated themes: Community, Culture, and Identity; Adaptive Reuse & Multi-Functional Spaces; and Innovative Materials & Resilient, Off-Grid Design. The talk highlights the interplay of interiors and architecture, showing how spatial detailing, furniture, finishes, and cultural storytelling reinforce a building’s purpose. Participants will gain insights into designing resilient and meaningful spaces in resource-constrained environments, balancing cultural relevance, environmental responsibility, and scalable construction methods. This talk is intended for architects and design professionals interested in socially conscious, material-driven, and resilient architecture, particularly those working in tropical, off-grid, or resource-constrained environments.

Speaker Bio: Denise V. de Castro
Principal Architect & Founder | DEQA Design Collaborative, Manila Philippines

Denise V. de Castro is the Principal Architect and Founder of DEQA Design Collaborative, an award-winning studio creating integrated, life-centered environments that uplift people, strengthen communities, and positively impact the planet. A proud Filipino architect and entrepreneur, she is driven by the belief that design can transform the everyday and shape a better future.

She earned her Master’s in Architecture from Harvard University and a Bachelor’s degree from Wellesley College, further developing her expertise at global firms such as IDEO, CBT Architects, and Lor Calma Design Associates. Since founding DEQA in 2010, Denise has led projects for clients such as Unilever, The Henry Hotels, Alveo, SGV, and Phinma Education, consistently delivering spaces that foster health, joy, and fulfillment.

Through DEQA’s Well Living Design Index (WLDI), she integrates sustainability, wellness, and human experience into every project, guiding her team in creating environments that enrich lives and stand the test of time. Beyond her studio, she serves as an Independent Director at Arthaland and Advisor to NetGroup, championing sustainability and innovation in real estate and renewable energy.

At the heart of her work is a commitment to use design as a strategic tool to improve quality of life and shape a more connected, inspired future.