‘Chic’ is not enough
For society interior designer and art connoisseur Jonathan Matti, who founded the art hub Vetted in Makati, to be described as “kinda chic” begs for a retort.
“Someone said that the Vetted events are ‘kinda’ chic. I beg to disagree because our events are not ‘kinda’ but beyond chic! Our shows and products have a level of taste that is instinctive and individual,” says Jonathan, who was recently bestowed the Professional of the Year Award for Interior Designer by the Philippine Regulatory Commission. “Vetted is not trying to be anything because we have developed our own point of view, which I would like to think has an effortless sophistication.”
Vetted’s latest collection for its upcoming pop-up, Garden of Earthly Delights from Sept. 11 to 13, celebrates a seamless fusion of European heritage and local artistry. Striking table lamps as well as 18th-century Tuscan candelabra bases with handwoven inabel shades trimmed in silk grosgrain dazzle the beholder. Matching this aesthetic, signature throw pillows, bed coverlets, and linens blend French passementerie with indigenous fabrics woven by artisan communities in Quezon, a tiny town in Isabela province in Cagayan Valley.
“I wanted to present Filipino craft in a new light,” points out Jonathan. “I wanted the craftsmanship to stand out without being folkloric and predictable. As I said, I wanted it to have a certain sophistication that could stand out anywhere in the world, without losing its origins.”
Jonathan wants Filipino crafts to be cosmopolitan, at home in any palazzo or chateau, but without losing their identity.
He discovered Quezon in Isabela and other local sources from conversations with various people in his travels around the country. Jonathan also seeks out trade fairs.
“The particular one that sparked my interest is the Likhang Filipino trade fair of First Lady Liza Marcos. They have so much material to inspire creativity,” he reveals.
Jonathan is grateful to the PRC for bestowing the Professional of the Year Award for Interior Design on him.
“A special shout-out to the Philippine Institute of Interior Designers for the nomination,” he adds. “I am touched by your kindness, support, and generosity. I am especially grateful to God for this honor and the path that led me here. This recognition celebrates the profession, people, clients, collaborators, friends, my employees and fellow designers who have been with me on this journey. I am deeply grateful, honored, and humbled.”
Beyond chic
Garden of Earthly Delights 2026 edition allows you to skip the frantic rush of festive shopping and discover something truly special at Vetted, Unit 126, Mile Long Building, Makati City.
This anticipated three-day showcase starting Sept. 11 brings together exquisite home decor, artisanal jewelry, and elevated resort wear—delivering a curated shopping experience that Jonathan playfully dubs “beyond chic.”
For the Garden of Earthly Delights 2026 edition, Anne Marie Saguil returns with Amarie’s latest resort wear lineup, crafted for versatile living that moves effortlessly from urban outings to out-of-town trips. Timeless silhouettes are elevated with delicate floral embroidery, scalloped edges and hand-braided tassel details.
Mark Wilson rounds out the trio with his Caro Wilson brand, debuting a capsule of men’s tops alongside handcrafted jewelry, table accessories and seasonal accents. From woven jewelry elements to glittered Baguio pine cones for the holidays, the collection offers a fresh, contemporary take on Philippine craft traditions.
Every limited-edition piece tells a story of craftsmanship, offering discerning shoppers the joy of finding treasures that can’t easily be found anywhere else—meticulously vetted by no less than Jonathan. He, who is unapologetically miffed by compliments that his events are “kinda” chic. Only “beyond chic” will do.
Garden of Earthly Delights runs from Sept. 11 to 13 at Vetted, Unit 126, Mile Long Building, Makati City.
