In Metro Manila's Bonifacio Global City, Carlo’s blends American-Italian comfort with modern edge. Designed by JJ Acuña / Bespoke Studio for Carlo Alvarez, the space nods to New York’s Little Italy, but with personality — bold colour, vintage textures, and art woven into every corner.

Art plays a central role here. Almost all pieces are from Carlo’s personal collection — contemporary artworks by Mr. Star City, Nicasio Fernandez, Brian Calvin, Megan Whitmarsh and more. The modern canvases add vibrancy and visual tension against raw walnut floors, green beadboard, plaid bar stools, and Sheer curtains with ribbon trim. Shelves and walls are punctuated by whimsical figurines, quirky objects and graphic details that reward the curious eye.

Photographing Carlo’s meant dancing with light and detail: capturing the glow of Akari lamps, the contrast of modern art against old-world charm, the texture of vintage materials meeting contemporary imagery.

Read more about this new American-Italian, art-infused restaurant that combines vitality with old-world charm in Wallpaper*.

My lens has followed JJ Acuña’s designs across the Philippines and beyond — explore more of my work capturing his inspired spaces at home and abroad.