An undergraduate design student from the University of Santo Tomas in the Philippines has been named the ASDA APAC Grand Prize Winner. American Standard, a renowned brand in sanitary ware, celebrated the achievement at a special awards ceremony and exhibition in Singapore. The competition attracted 5,000 registrants from six Asia-Pacific countries. The theme of “Home Away From Home” prompted student designers to create innovative solutions for hospitality bathrooms that recreate the warm and inviting feeling of home, aligning with the American Standard brand’s claim of LIFE.LOVE.HOME.
Ricardo Noel Bonalos, an undergraduate design student at the University of Santo Tomas in the Philippines, emerged as the ASDA APAC Grand Prize Winner with his entry titled “SereniScape Retreat: Your Personal Urban Oasis.” His winning entry presented a harmonious blend of natural elements and thoughtful design, where the bathroom becomes a haven where guests can unwind, reconnect with themselves, and experience the dual warmth of a homey atmosphere and the refreshing touch of a tranquil oasis. Using customizable cabinets that allow guests to adapt the space to their needs adds a unique personality to the bathroom. It addresses the challenge of catering to diverse guest preferences without imposing difficulty on hotel owners.
Ricardo shared his journey, “This project required meticulous attention to detail and careful consideration of materials, fixtures, and furnishings. Although this process was time-consuming, it was incredibly educational. Participating in the ASDA has taught me invaluable lessons about designing spaces that feel familiar and welcoming, even within a commercial context. It has boosted my confidence and prepared me to tackle real-world projects with a more refined approach. It’s provided me with a unique platform to learn from the best minds in the field, and the opportunity to receive feedback from industry leaders and peers has been incredibly enlightening.”
Antoine Besseyre Des Horts, Leader, LIXIL Global Design, Asia, commented, “The ASDA was created as a platform to nurture and recognize upcoming talent in the industry. The caliber of entries keeps impressing ASDA judges. It is rewarding to see the ASDA platform grow to over 1,000 submitted entries from across the region, focusing on the theme “Home Away From Home.” What truly defines a home is the delicate balance of design, space, and practicality.”
“When traveling away from home, we desire a space that relaxes, inspires, and rejuvenates. No matter the style, color, or decor choice, the sense of comfort greets us every time we step into the room. The regional finalists from six different countries were able to convey that through their winning projects and had the opportunity to receive mentoring from the distinguished judging panel. We are pleased to congratulate all the ASDA 2024 winners and finalists and look forward to their continued success,” Antoine continued.
The ASDA 2024 regional finalists and first placed National winners are:
- Ricardo Noel Bonalos – APAC Grand Prize Winner / Philippines National Winner from the University of Santo Tomas
- Davy Sophonn – Cambodia National Winner from Kirirom Institute of Technology
- Luist Yansen – Indonesia National Winner from Tarumanagara University
- Podsatorn Keela – Thailand National Winner from Khon Kaen University
- Mai Hà Võ – Viet Nam National Winner from Danang Architecture University
- Minh Chau Nguyen – Australia & New Zealand Winner from Deakin University
Each national winner won a cash prize of USD 2,000 and was mentored by their national ASDA judges in their advance to the APAC regional finals. The APAC Grand Prize winner was awarded a total cash prize of USD 5,000. All regional finalists were also invited to an exclusive tour of the LIXIL Experience Centre, Singapore, and a curated design workshop at the LIXIL Design Centre.
Please visit the ASDA website for more information about the ASDA competition and a way to be part of an impactful movement that can make a difference in consumers’ lives. Follow American Standard on Facebook (@AmericanStandardPH) and Instagram (@americanstandard_ph) for more updates.
