JJ Acuna / Bespoke Studio Manila
Photo: Courtesy of JJ Acuna / Bespoke Studio
Carlo's by JJ Acuna / Bespoke Studio
Photography: Scott A. Woodward
JJ Acuna / Bespoke Studio Manila
Photo: Courtesy of JJ Acuna / Bespoke Studio
Carlo's by JJ Acuna / Bespoke Studio
Photography: Scott A. Woodward
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JJ Acuna’s diverse background and global perspectives play a significant role in shaping the studio’s unique output. His architectural education, combined with his extensive experience in corporate firms, has equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of all aspects of the design and construction process. This expertise allows him to lead his team in delivering projects that are not only creatively impactful but also commercially viable and efficiently executed.

JJ Acuna / Bespoke Studio Hong Kong
Photography: Steven Ko

JJ Acuna / Bespoke Studio Hong Kong

Photography: Steven Ko

When asked about his definition of good design, JJ emphasizes the importance of intentionality and attention to detail. He believes that every element of design should be carefully considered and serve a specific purpose.

When you look at colour, form, pattern, proportion, fixings, and realise that everything was intentional and placed together well, that is good design. If it ages well, even better. This is the bespoke experience.

JJ Acuna

Celera by JJ Acuna / Bespoke Studio
Photography: Scott A. Woodward

Celera by JJ Acuna / Bespoke Studio

Photography: Scott A. Woodward

At the heart of JJ Acuna / Bespoke Studio design philosophy lies a focus on conceptual narratives that are carefully aligned with the client’s vision. This means that every project begins with a deep dive into understanding their goals and aspirations, ensuring that the final design is not just aesthetically pleasing but also meaningful and resonant. Explains JJ, “We tend to design for clients who aspire to live well, see the world, celebrate traditions, elevate experiences, and embrace the transformative powers of beauty.”

Studio JJ
Photography: Amanda Kho

Studio JJ

Photography: Amanda Kho

This commitment to crafting bespoke experiences is reflected in some of the studio’s notable projects, such as Xiao Ting in the Four Seasons Macau, Castellana in Duddell Street, Hong Kong, and Celera, a chef’s kitchen in Manila. Each of these projects showcases the studio’s ability to translate the client’s vision into a tangible and inspiring reality. Shares JJ, “In Xiao Ting, everything was bespoke, from the gilded brass artworks on the wall to the soaring pendants, to the glorious sofa banquettes, everything was indeed our dream. For Castellana, everything

had to vibe with the Piedmont region, so we designed wall to wall rugs based on the acres of vineyards. Castle-like furniture is clad in colours of burgundy, lemon, and lime and you can almost smell the freshness. Celera is a completely open chef ’s kitchen inside an antique barn designed for chefs to embrace their communities. This is based on the colour black as a foundation with slices of copper, so it was a fun project to conceptualise.”

Carlo's by JJ Acuna / Bespoke Studio
Photography: Scott A. Woodward

Carlo's by JJ Acuna / Bespoke Studio

Photography: Scott A. Woodward

Looking ahead, JJ Acuna / Bespoke Studio aims to celebrate its 10th anniversary by publishing a book of works and expanding its reach to Mainland China, the United States, and Australia. Ultimately, it’s JJ’s passion for design and his desire to create bespoke experiences for his clients that continue to drive the studio’s success.

Castellana by JJ Acuna / Bespoke Studio
Photography: Natalie Dunn

Castellana by JJ Acuna / Bespoke Studio

Photography: Natalie Dunn