Michael J. Needham and his team behind Uma Nota have made history as the first team from the Philippines to win at the prestigious World Interiors News Awards, a global platform recognizing excellence in design and innovation. This groundbreaking achievement shines a spotlight on the Philippines’ growing presence in the global design and culinary world.
Uma Nota, celebrated for its vibrant blend of Brazilian-Japanese fusion cuisine, goes beyond serving exceptional dishes. The restaurant’s unique interior design, inspired by a seamless fusion of culture, creativity, and connection, played a significant role in earning this esteemed recognition.
Uma Nota competed against world-renowned names such as NAC by Studio PCH (USA), Sketch by Zaha Hadid Architects (UK), and AvroKO’s RH Guesthouse (USA)—a testament to the caliber of innovation and creativity showcased in this year’s awards.
“This is a win not just for Uma Nota but for the Philippines,” said Michael J. Needham. “To be recognized on the world stage validates our vision of creating spaces that celebrate culture, diversity, and the power of shared experiences. We are incredibly proud to represent Manila and showcase the talent and creativity of Filipinos to the world.”
The World Interiors News Awards honor design excellence that transcends boundaries, and this victory marks a pivotal moment for the Philippine dining and design scene. Michael and his team hope this recognition will inspire more Filipino innovators to bring their creative visions to life on the global stage.
