Milo Naval, a leading figure in the Philippine design industry, has profoundly influenced furniture and interior design with his minimalist approach and innovative use of indigenous materials. Through his brand, OMO Furniture, and various collaborations, Naval highlights the artistic potential of local resources while advocating for sustainability and community development. His work showcases the beauty and functionality of Filipino craftsmanship, bringing global attention to its unique qualities.
Naval’s design journey began with a deep appreciation for his Filipino heritage. After studying architecture, he transitioned into interior and furniture design, where he found his true calling. Naval’s work is deeply influenced by traditional Filipino craftsmanship and the natural resources of the Philippines, such as abaca, bamboo, and rattan. Recognizing their potential early on, he has transformed these materials into world-class furniture pieces.
One of Naval’s standout collections, the Migo series, exemplifies his ability to transform traditional materials into modern designs. By using palm sticks bound together, he creates intricate, contemporary pieces that blend traditional craftsmanship with innovative design. This collection demonstrates Naval’s skill in merging the old with the new, creating designs that are both functional and artistic.
Sustainability is central to Naval’s design philosophy. He advocates for environmentally friendly practices, from material sourcing to production processes. Naval uses recycled materials, such as discarded tire tubes, to create functional, eco-friendly furniture. This not only reduces waste but also highlights the potential of recycled materials in design.
Naval’s approach to sustainability extends beyond the materials he uses. He ensures that his production processes are environmentally responsible, minimizing waste and reducing the carbon footprint of his operations. By focusing on sustainable practices, Naval sets a standard for the design industry, encouraging others to adopt eco-friendly methods.
“We felt we needed to have a very good relationship with our craftsmen. Understanding them from their point of view is the best way to see how design and craftsmanship can work hand in hand.”
Milo Naval
Through these collaborations, Naval helps bring global attention to the quality and creativity of Filipino design. His efforts have not only increased the visibility of Filipino artisans but also provided them with new opportunities for growth and development. By promoting local craftsmanship, OMO Furniture contributes to the preservation of traditional skills and techniques, ensuring that they are passed down to future generations.
Milo Naval’s influence on Filipino design is profound and far-reaching. His innovative use of local materials and commitment to sustainability has elevated Filipino craftsmanship on the global stage. Naval’s dedication to mentoring young designers and fostering innovation ensures that his legacy will continue to inspire future generations. Through his brand OMO Furniture and collaborative efforts, Naval champions the beauty and potential of Filipino design, making a lasting impact on the local community and beyond.
By staying true to his roots and continuously evolving, Naval demonstrates that Filipino design can be both traditional and contemporary, sustainable and luxurious. His work is a powerful reminder of the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines and its potential to contribute to the global design landscape.
Learn more about how Milo Naval innovates using local materials, builds a sustainable community, and fosters future generations of artisans by ordering your copy of BluPrint Volume 1. Available via the sarisari.shopping website, Shopee, and Lazada. E-magazines are available for download via Readly, Press Reader, and Magzter.
Photographed by Ed Simon.
Read more: Asador Alfonso
Pasulong by Anton V. Quisumbing explores loss, longing, and repair. Two years in the making, Quisumbing pieced together the remains of bronze propellers from boats damaged in the aftermath of Typhoon Odette in 2021. Curated by Miguel Rosales and designed by Caramel Creative Consultancy, the exhibition consists of twenty-nine compositions. The works suggest that moving […]
SoFA Design Institute has established itself as one of the Philippines’ leading centers for creative education. It is dedicated to equipping students with the skills, perspective, and confidence needed to succeed in design both locally and internationally. Last March 11, this vision was brought into sharper focus through the launch of SoFA’s academic partnership with […]
Second homes have shifted from occasional escapes to extensions of everyday life. Increasingly, they are expected to offer the same level of comfort and clarity as a primary residence—while remaining within reach. In this context, a new type of development is emerging: the design-led resi-resort. In Calatagan, Batangas, Costa Calatagan introduces Ortigas Land’s first coastal […]
Based on an August 2025 report from Research and Markets, the Philippine construction industry is facing a severe labor deficit driven by a widening skills gap. This leaves many projects vulnerable to human error, delays, and coordination challenges. In a country struggling with the slow adoption of advanced technology and a shortage of skilled labor, […]
In a platform that aims to overturn hierarchies and reimagine societies, a Filipina designer secures a spot at Milan Design Week. This proves that Kamayan, the traditional Filipino practice of communal eating by hand, can be recoded into a futuristic ritual. Every Milan Design Week, BASE Milano becomes a ground for eccentric ideas, transforming into […]
Cafés are a prominent feature in the social lives of Filipinos. In Katipunan, they are found on almost every corner. Beyond the mall, the café is one of the most dominant forms of a third place in the Philippines. In Metro Manila, where green spaces and public libraries are sparse, and in-between, cafés have to […]
