Carlo’s, a standout in the vibrant dining scene of Manila’s Bonifacio Global City, is a testament to the transformative power of lighting design. Collaborating with acclaimed interior designer JJ Acuna / Bespoke Studio, Lighting Design PH created an environment that seamlessly integrates architectural lighting with bespoke decorative elements, elevating the dining experience to an immersive journey.

The lighting concept was envisioned to complement the interior designer’s design language, celebrating warm tones, textures, and rhythmic patterns while ensuring versatility across various dining scenarios. Key to this vision was the use of lighting control, which enables smooth transitions from day to night, adjusting the ambiance to match the mood—from bright and lively mornings to warm, intimate evenings. This dynamic adaptation ensures Carlo’s offers an inviting atmosphere at any time of the day.

The semi-private dining area features Akari Noguchi Pendant lamps, carefully curated for their soft, diffused glow, fostering intimacy and warmth. Elsewhere, bespoke decorative lamps designed by the interior designer take center stage, with Lighting Design PH collaborating closely to recommend the light sources that would best bring these custom elements to life. This partnership ensured that the decorative fixtures blended harmoniously with the architectural lighting, delivering a cohesive and refined aesthetic.

Throughout the space, the hierarchy of brightness was meticulously planned. The bar area, with its layered lighting design, features backlit shelving that highlights textured surfaces, accentuating bottles and decorative pieces while maintaining a warm glow. Bespoke wall sconces add visual interest, creating a dynamic interplay of light and shadow that emphasizes depth and detail. Meanwhile, the main dining area balances focused task lighting with ambient illumination, guiding attention to key architectural features without overpowering the overall atmosphere.

Sustainability was at the forefront of the design approach, with energy-efficient LED technology used across all fixtures. Thoughtfully positioned luminaires minimize energy consumption while ensuring the space is well-lit and visually engaging. The integration of lighting control further enhances efficiency by regulating light levels based on time of day and usage, optimizing the experience for guests and staff alike.

The result is a sophisticated interplay of light and design that transforms Carlo’s into more than just a restaurant—it becomes a destination. Through the careful orchestration of lighting layers, decorative fixtures, and adaptive controls, Lighting Design PH has crafted a space where ambiance and architecture are perfectly aligned.


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