“It's a testament to creating a sustainable ecosystem where design not only beautifies spaces but also uplifts lives directly at the source.”

Building on the success of their initial endeavor, Steffanie and Vianca Soleil further deepened their collaborative vision. Their second ambitious mission, set for July 2025, aims to generate the necessary resources to donate 100 specially designed desks to schools. These desks, also thoughtfully conceived and created by the two designers, represent a tangible commitment to fostering education and empowering the local community, ensuring that the impact of their beautiful creations extends beyond the home.

Beyond the tangible support and beautiful pieces, what enduring lessons or inspirations have you personally drawn from the direct connection with the communities and artisans you've engaged with through the Hiraya Foundation?

"What has stayed with me the most is the unwavering sense of pride, resilience, and humility within the artisan communities we work with. Their dedication to their craft, often passed down through generations, is not just a skill set, it’s a reflection of identity, heritage, and quiet strength. Being immersed in their world has taught me to slow down, to honour process over pace, and to value intention in everything we create. It’s a constant reminder that beauty is not just in the finished piece, but in the hands that made it and the stories they carry. These connections have shifted the way I view design, it’s not just about aesthetics, but about purpose, preservation, and people."

The Hiraya Foundation's initiatives, from the Aral Vase to the 100 desks, aim for lasting change. As you look to the future, how do you envision En Gold's ongoing role in fostering sustainable growth and empowerment for the artisan families and their communities in the Philippines?

"Through the Hiraya Foundation, we’re building long-term partnerships where support isn’t a one-time gesture, but a continuous cycle of investment in skills, infrastructure, and education. As En Gold grows globally, we’re committed to deepening our roots in the Philippines, not only by expanding employment opportunities, but by creating programs that support generational growth: upskilling, design mentorship, and access to broader markets. Our goal is to help artisan families build a future that honours their heritage while giving them the tools to evolve and thrive on their own terms. It’s about creating pathways, not dependency and keeping community at the heart of everything we do."

This ongoing partnership is a powerful reflection of En Gold's core philosophy: that true luxury extends beyond aesthetics, embracing authenticity, responsible sourcing, and a deep connection to the hands that craft each piece. Through the Hiraya Foundation, which was co-founded by Steffanie Ball herself, the commitment is holistic-ranging from providing essential reading materials and clean water to offering healthcare and life insurance for the Filipino artisans and their families who contribute to En Gold's exquisite collections. It's a testament to creating a sustainable ecosystem where design not only beautifies spaces but also uplifts lives directly at the source.

By weaving a narrative of cultural pride, exquisite craftsmanship, and genuine social responsibility, the collaboration with Vianca Soleil and the Hiraya Foundation exemplifies En Gold's dedication to slow interiors with profound purpose. Each piece tells a story of heritage and hope, inviting patrons to be part of a larger movement that champions ethical production and educational empowerment. This endeavor is more than just about furniture; it's about building lasting bridges between design, community, and opportunity, ensuring a future where beauty and impact flourish hand in hand.