Jor-El Espina Atelier Manila is more than just a space for shopping. It’s also a creative
sanctuary for unique design collaborations, sharing of stories about craft, and continuous
discovery of Filipino ingenuity
A 120-square-meter office space on the 7th floor of One Corporate Plaza, one of the many brutalist buildings located at the hub of the financial district of Makati, a city district in Metro Manila’s sprawling cityscape.
It has been re-imagined into a hub for Filipino contemporary design with Jor-el Espina, a renowned Iloilo-based designer making this location as his first atelier in the city.
The design concept was thoughtfully conceived in line with his philosophy as a designer. Over the years, Jor-el has fostered connections based on three principles: craftsmanship, creativity, and collaboration and the atelier represented just that.
“Opening an atelier in Manila felt like a natural step forward,” shares Jor-El. “It’s not just about displaying our designs; it’s about offering an immersive experience for our clients.” The atelier serves as a creative hub and a point of personal connection with patrons and new clients.
This is a place where we can design, innovate, and collaborate, ensuring that every client feels valued and important. It allows us to share the depth of our craft and the essence of contemporary Filipino design in a more personal way.”
The atelier’s aesthetic reflects Jor-El Espina’s signature style—an elegant fusion of Filipino warmth and modern industrial design. The space exudes intimacy and aspiration, much like the women wearing his pieces.
One of the many highlights of the space has to be the bespoke fitting area, designed for clients to experience the art of dressing meaningfully and personally. It’s a corner where “dream designs come to life.” he further explains, “Another section of the atelier is dedicated to showing curated pieces that highlight the textures, patterns, and intricate details inspired by the Philippines’ rich cultural heritage.”
At another section of the space, you can see his latest collection, a stunning spring cruise series made out of pina with bright fabrics structured in a flowing yet elegant way that is reminiscient to certain pieces from the early sixties.
One of the most striking pieces that certainly caught our eye was a pina mini skirt with strands of mother of pearl, beads, and floral details hanging from the side, which is such a statement piece for the modern city girl.
Being at his atelier, of course, the bomberongs ( a fusion between the quintessential bomber jacket and barong, A long-sleeved, embroidered, formal shirt for men that is the national dress of the Philippines were there, showcased proudly in different designs, some also decorated with mother of pearls, and some with distinct weaves and patterns.
One of the latest collaborations that Jor-el has done, that he specifically wore on this special day, is a trucker jacket with barong details, a union with VIKTOR Manila by Ino Caluza, the jacket is a juxtaposition of Japanese selvedge denim and fine hand-embroidered calado weave on the front, making it a unique piece of artisan craftsmanship for anyone to have.
The studio also signals a thoughtful expansion into other lifestyle categories. While remaining dedicated to creating exquisite contemporary Filipiniana garments, the atelier now includes artisanal accessories and a curated selection of home items, further enriching the Jor-El Espina experience.
Plans for special design collaborations and limited-edition pieces tailored exclusively for the atelier are already in motion.
Jor-El Espina, one of the country’s leading voices in contemporary Filipino design, describes the atelier as more than a retail space. “From the moment someone enters, they’ll feel the warmth of Filipino hospitality paired with the refinement of a modern atelier. It’s not just about shopping—it’s about sharing stories and inspiration. This is where design dreams take shape, transforming every visit into a sensorial journey through contemporary Filipino artistry.”
The JOR-EL ESPINA ATELIER MANILA is at 703 One Corporate Plaza, Arnaiz Avenue, Makati City. For appointments, contact 0931 127 2802. Store hours are from 10 AM to 8 PM. Follow @jorel_espinaph on Instagram for updates.
