Kenneth Cobonpue blends design, art and gastronomy in new creative hub

World-renowned industrial designer Kenneth Cobonpue has opened a new creative hub in the heart of Bonifacio Global City (BGC), featuring three distinct yet interconnected spaces: Fable Café + Lounge, the KennethCobonpue Showroom, and Cloudgrey Gallery. This innovative destination combines design, cuisine and contemporary art.

The KennethCobonpue Showroom

Nature and design merge in Kenneth Cobonpue's showroom. Every piece — furniture, lighting and accessories — honors organic elements and blend earthy textures.

Soft, glowing lamps float above artful designs. The interplay of textures, colors, and shapes forms a seamless, immersive experience. But more than just a showroom, Cobonpue describes the newly unveiled space as a global flagship that represents his creative vision at its finest.

"This is like a flagship showroom, not only in the country but I think in the world. This is probably the most beautiful showroom in the world and it's rightfully right in Manila where it should be," Cobonpue told members of the press in an interview.

Previously based in Makati for over a decade, the move to BGC was driven by the need for a larger, more immersive space.

"I found this space, it's a really beautiful space, the up and down, I love it. We were there in Makati for 10 years; I think it was nice, but it was quite small for us. We couldn't display as much as we wanted to," he explained.

Fable Café + Lounge

Fable Café + Lounge began as a simple idea — a space where clients could enjoy a good cup of coffee while exploring Cobonpue's furniture collections. Over time, it evolved into something much bigger.

"I just wanted coffee for our clients, that's the original concept, just like how brands have cafes. Gradually, it took a life of its own. I wanted to make something different," Cobonpue explained.

Every detail at Fable Café + Lounge is thoughtfully designed to delight the senses. Handcrafted furniture and unique décor set the stage for creative dishes that turn every meal into an experience.

According to Cobonpue, the menu at Fable is globally inspired.

"I wanted the food to be from around the world. It should be something that people are familiar with, not too complicated. In the beginning, we had chefs focusing on intricate plating, but I said, you know what? That's not us. Let's stick with the simple and let it gradually evolve," he shared.

Cobonpue sees a strong connection between the disciplines of food and furniture design, noting that the creative process across all artistic fields follows a similar structure.

"I think all disciplines, whether music, design or art, are the same. The process of creation is not a formula, and it's not a burst of inspiration; it's really hard work. You have to take time each day to come up with something and force yourself to do it. Sometimes it doesn't come, but you have to keep on doing it. It's a discipline, not just inspiration," he explained.

Cloudgrey Gallery

One of the highlights of this new creative hub is Cloudgrey Gallery, an art space that debuts with works from celebrated Filipino contemporary artist Ronald Ventura. The collaboration was born from friendship and shared vision between the two creatives.

"We've always been good friends with Ronald. I wanted a gallery up here; it was either a gallery or retail, so I said I want a gallery. I approached Ronald to see if he knew anyone interested in opening one, and he said, 'You know what? We just signed up for a space next door.' But then I told him it would be perfect if he opened it with me here instead," Cobonpue recalled.

"I was looking for an artist who is also on an international level. It can't be just any artist, so Ronald, with his accolades, was a perfect fit. I think he was a pioneer in his own right, with hyperrealism, which a lot of people have followed. Now, everybody is doing it, just like my furniture, actually. So I admire him for that," he added.

This partnership marks a significant milestone in Ventura's career, providing him with an exciting platform to expand his reach to international audiences. His newly established art space will also be dedicated to showcasing the talent and diversity of Philippine and Southeast Asian artists.

Together, Fable Café + Lounge, the KennethCobonpue Showroom, and Cloudgrey Gallery redefine the experience of art, design, and cuisine in the Philippines.