Talk about Philippine architects and modern architecture brings to mind many distinguished names. Foremost of these is Arch. Lor Calma, a pioneer in Philippine modern architecture, interior, and furniture design. His works span over five decades of exemplary and iconic design in these genres. A graduate of the Mapua Institute of Technology School of Architecture and Planning, Arch. Lor Calma is a pioneer and advocate of the modernist movement in local design. He later ventured into furniture and interior design, working with various furniture manufacturing firms, and eventually co-founding the Philippine School of Interior Design with Eng’r. Agustin Cancio, Mrs. Herminia Cancio-Layug, and Miss Edith Oliveros. He is also known as an artist and sculptor whose works follow ‘origami’ forms interpreted in hard materials such as steel and concrete.

The son also rises as Ed Calma continues his father’s design legacy and brings it to new heights. Ed Calma, a graduate of Pratt Institute and the Columbia University School of Architecture, both in New York, has joined his father’s design company as its design director. His practice of architecture, for twelve years, in New York and work with esteemed designers Carlos Zapata and Peter Pran has honed his skills in architectural design and planning. Coming home to Manila, Ed Calma has become one of the most sought-after residential and building designers. His works echo his father’s design principles while creating a distinct ‘look’ and ‘feel’ that is all his own.

The father-and-son design tandem has recently opened an exhibit at the LRI Plaza building showcasing their work through the years as well as new works. Highlights of the exhibit are sculptural works and furniture designs by Lor Calma and architectural works by Ed Calma, from analysis drawings to actual projects.

Arch. Lor Calma’s design legacy and his son’s fresh new perspectives in design continue to serve as inspiration to young designers and design enthusiasts. Theirs is a growing legacy that will forever live on in the annals of Philippine design history.

The exhibit is on view until June 9 at the LRI Design Plaza.