Founder of Antonio Development and director of Century Properties Group, Jose Roberto “Robbie” Antonio is leading a revolution in prefab design
by Luxury Defined
Avid art collector Robbie Antonio recently launched a limited-edition concept for pre-crafted and moveable homes and pavilions, working with the likes of Tom Dixon, Marcel Wanders, and Lenny Kravitz.
Here, he talks to Luxury Defined about the Revolution project.
What is your background?
I grew up fascinated about design and architecture, and at an early age recognized the power of brands in the global real estate market.
Tell us about what you do.
I’ve been working in real estate development for more than 20 years, beginning as managing director of [Philippines-based] Century Properties Group, which is responsible for the highest number of fashion-branded real estate projects in Asia. Projects include working with Daniel Libeskind and Armani/Casa on Century Spire; Milano Residences (Versace); and Trump Tower at Century City.
In 2015 you launched Revolution. What was the idea behind the project?
Revolution was a natural next step – an extension of what I have been doing in luxury branded real estate. I wanted to do something no one had done before, and work with creatives who are constantly pushing boundaries; the designers signing on to Revolution recognize the project’s ingenuity and potential. I’ve worked with 12 Pritzker Prize-winning architects and no fewer than 73 international brands on the concept.
Would you say your buildings have a “look”?
In Revolution there is no one distinct “look,” but rather each home or pavilion is marked by the “visual impression” of its designer.
The Revolution concept is incredibly innovative – which visionaries have you worked with on the project?
Zaha Hadid with Patrik Schumacher, Campana Brothers, Ron Arad, Lenny Kravitz of Kravitz Design, Ben Van Berkel of UNStudio…
How do you decide who to work with?
It isn’t enough to work with a great architect. It is necessary to get their best work. The constant back and forth when working with a client is the common thread in achieving the best results.
What sets Revolution apart from your other work?
Revolution is unique as it allows us to serve developers and end-users in multiple countries with various needs in terms of size and price. It’s transforming the way developers and consumers interact with high-design real estate.
What are your future plans?
We are planning to announce several more architects, designers, and celebrities who have signed with Revolution. I’ve decided to only do things that are game-changing. I’m currently working on a public museum initiative. There’s potential to create cultural destinations, with designer homes, museums, even art parks. This is the direction Revolution is headed.
Your own home has impressive architectural credentials. Please tell us about “Stealth”.
It’s located in the Philippines and designed by Rem Koolhaas. My personal style is very minimalist and raw.
Describe a typical weekend.
I am often traveling, so it depends where I am in the world. But generally I spend my weekend engaging in cultural activities, whether that be music, art, design – anything that speaks about the city I am visiting.
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