WORLDBEX 2024: A Global Showcase of Construction and Design

March 20, 2024

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By 

Chad Rialp

WORLDBEX 2024, held at the SMX Convention Center and the World Trade Center, was a resounding success, showcasing the latest trends and technologies in Philippine construction, architecture, and design. The event featured a wide range of exhibitors, from local and international to leading architecture and design firms.

The World of Architecture

Booths of architecture firms at WorldBex 2024.
Booths of architecture firms at WorldBex 2024.
Booths of architecture firms at WorldBex 2024.
Booths of architecture firms at WorldBex 2024.

One of the key highlights of the event was The World of Architecture exhibits, which featured booths from Nazareno Architects, Palafox, Edwin Uy, BAAD Studio, Denise de Castro, Fulgar Architects, Visionarch, and Primea Design Group.

WTA's interactive booth for its Open Book on social architecture at WorldBex 2024.

An interactive display by WTA Architects invited visitors to create their own copy of WTA’s Open Book on social architecture. WTA is a growing collective that strives to engage in innovative explorations and conversations, and the Open Book exhibit challenged visitors to think about architecture in a new way.

Projecto Design Competition

Entries from Projecto Design Competition at WorldBex 2024 at the SMX Convention Center.
Entries from Projecto Design Competition at WorldBex 2024 at the SMX Convention Center.
Entries from Projecto Design Competition at WorldBex 2024 at the SMX Convention Center.
Entries from Projecto Design Competition at WorldBex 2024 at the SMX Convention Center.
Entries from Projecto Design Competition at WorldBex 2024 at the SMX Convention Center.
Entries from Projecto Design Competition at WorldBex 2024 at the SMX Convention Center.

Another installation of note was Projecto, which featured 3D models of student projects from around the country. The design theme this year was “The Athenaeum: Conceptualizing State-Of-The-Art Public Library Using Parametric Design”. This exhibit gave visitors a glimpse into the future of Philippine architecture, as students tackled the challenge of designing a state-of-the-art public library using parametric design.

World of Interior Design

Over at the World Trade Center, the World of Interior Design section featured various vignettes from designers across the country. Among the the key highlights was the One PIID exhibit showcased the transformative power of design. The exhibit featured immersive and interactive exhibits, engaging demonstrations, and insightful discussions on the latest trends in interior design.

Photos courtesy of PIID.

The exhibit is part of Philippine Institute of Interior Design’s celebration of 60 years of design excellence. In its drive to pave the way for the future of interior design in the Philippines and beyond, the One PIID exhibition was “an invitation to discover how the organization is pushing the boundaries, sparking innovation, and shaping the Philippine Design landscape one space at a time.”

A Global Marketplace for Building Dreams

The Philippines’ biggest building and design event lived up to its reputation as a one-stop shop for everything construction-related. While the local design scene took center stage, the International Pavilion emerged as a true crowd-puller.

Worldbex dedicated most of SMX Convention floor space to a global marketplace for building your dream home or business. At the International Pavilion, visitors encountered a vibrant display of the most innovative construction suppliers from across Asia.

You could explore a world of textures and colors with tile and flooring solutions from local and international suppliers. Leading window manufacturers showcased energy-efficient options promoting natural light and thermal insulation. There were also several booths showcasing smart home technologies. Advancements in automation, security, and connectivity, all designed to create a more comfortable and efficient living space.

Sustainability was also a focus, with vendors displaying solar power solutions like rooftop panels and water heaters. The world of landscaping bloomed with new plant varieties, irrigation systems, and prefabricated green walls.  And that’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to everything that Worldbex 2024 had to offer.

WORLDBEX 2024: Why it Matters

This diverse range of suppliers solidified Worldbex’s position as the premier sourcing destination for the construction industry in the Philippines. This global marketplace not only offered convenience but also fostered collaboration and knowledge exchange. Architects, designers, and contractors could explore innovative products and materials not readily available in the local market. 

This international exposure has the potential to elevate the quality and efficiency of construction projects in the Philippines. It paves the way for the adoption of cutting-edge technologies and materials. This ultimately contributes to a more sustainable and advanced built environment.

WORLDBEX 2024 was a valuable event for anyone interested in the latest trends in Philippine construction, architecture, and design. The event provided a platform for professionals to connect and share ideas and inspired the next generation of designers and architects.

Photographed by Ed Simon.

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