My name is Darlene, Filipina (Ilocana) /Swiss, mother of 2 and founder of Tahanan Studio. Growing up in the farming province of Pangasinan in the Phillipines I have always had a strong connection to my culture and horticulture as a way of life.

The journey in business for me started from selling plants on Marketplace out of a two-bedroom apartment to make ends meet, to owning my first jungle store in Sunshine North (formerly known as Green Empire St.) and now it has evolved into Tahanan Studio. An intentional space blending business, creativity, community, home and lifestyle ~ a dream of sharing all the things I love under one roof.

At Tahanan Studio I make and curate exclusive collections that support both local and Filipino artisans. I co-host aligned events for my community and beyond.

Tahanan Studio for me is a way to connect back to my roots, and to share stories preserving cultural richness for my children and others seeking deeper connection.

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Tahanan (tah.hah.nan) means "home" in Filipino/Tagalog.

ᜆᜑᜈᜈ᜔ is "Tahanan" in baybayin – a script widely used in the Philippines before the introduction of latin alphabet.

We carry this as a tribute to our roots to remind us where we come from.

Work with Us , Shop Tahanan Collection or Visit our space in Maidstone.