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Get an Insider Look at Blake Go and Divine Lee-Go’s Sleek Home

Subtle touches of luxury and modern classic pieces give Blake Go and Divine Lee-Go’s home a sleek aesthetic that’s as cozy as it is sophisticated.

by Shari Quimbo
photography by Oliver Echevarria
hair and makeup by Arnauld

This story is taken from our archives. Originally published in Zee Digital Vol. 2

A pair of Pekingese dogs greeted us as we entered the home of Blake Go and Divine Lee-Go for the photoshoot, excitedly sniffing at our feet before running across the black tiled floors. “He’s my eldest son,” Blake jokes as he reaches out to scratch the head of Pompeii, the older pet.

Cute as the canines are, the real superstar of the house is clearly baby Baz. Despite being just a few months old at the time of the shoot, he looks up at us with adorable wide eyes. “Having a baby really changes everything,” Divine says with a laugh. “We were lucky we got this place cleaned up in time for the shoot!”

Any apology the couple might have offered for the clutter was completely unnecessary—a sleek stroller was parked at one corner, but all in all, the residence remained a chic and cosmopolitan abode in the middle of Cebu City.

The home is done in shades of dark neutrals, with some bare concrete walls to perfectly showcase their art collection. “Our inspiration for the house is very modern, very hotel-like,” Divine shares. “Technically, I wanted a blank canvas, and we just put a lot of accessories to liven up the place.”

The young couple did most of their furniture shopping in Manila at such stores like Furnitalia. Most lot of the design elements were Divine’s choice as her way of coping with homesickness when she moved to Cebu. “If people see my house in Manila, it’s basically the same thing—the same materials, the same color palette.” She continues by saying, “For me, there was an adjustment period. So this made me feel like I was still home in Manila.”

Their unit enjoys an open layout, which allows the sunlight from the large glass windows to fill the interiors and create a sense of airiness. However, this wasn’t always the case. “We had to tear down some walls,” Blake reveals, sharing that the kitchen had been enclosed when the unit was turned over. Now, their open kitchen features a long counter and sleek cabinetry.

Just off the kitchen is the dining area, where one mirrored wall gives the illusion of even more space. There are sculptural benches interspersed with single-seater chairs to accommodate more people when they entertain. Choosing the dining table followed the same thought process—the glass-topped table extends on both ends to seat four more diners. The chandelier above it is definitely a conversation piece as Blake demonstrates how the lighted beams can be moved around to create a different design.

Strategically placed alcoves and cabinetry were installed to address the need for storage. The largest wall of the room, though, is covered in a beautiful tile that the couple imported from Europe and was the most difficult item to bring into the unit. “It wouldn’t fit in the elevator,” Blake says about the large slabs. Instead, they had to install a crane system in the stairwell so they could bring it up all the way from the ground floor. Admittedly, the work was worth it, considering the subtle but sophisticated touch it adds to the space.

In the living area is an oversized L-shaped sofa, the lightest piece of furniture in the room. It is punctuated by black and white patterned pillows, textured throws and rugs, and a rich butterscotch-colored leathered seat. “This is my favorite space in the home,” Blake reveals, “because I like to sit here and watch the Golf Channel and Formula One.”

The entire area is illuminated by something Blake admits he’s proud to have, a Zaha Hadid Aria chandelier. Its cascading fins cast a soft glow, while its sculptural shape and distinguished pedigree add a touch of luxe to the space.

Against the home’s subdued color palette, the greenery of the balcony and the view beyond are particularly striking. Aside from being in a building already perched high on Cebu’s Nivel Hills, the Gos also live on the top floor of their tower. Needless to say, the sweeping views of their surrounding vista are unparalleled.

The couple decided to echo the greenery from the outside into their own little outdoor space. A plant box lines the railings, while leafy vines climb up the far wall. “It’s not much because we live in a condo, but we thought it would be nice to still have an area out here where we can sit and get some fresh air,” Blake says. “Plus, the dogs love it.”

The master suite had been two bedrooms, which they combined to make room for his and her walk-in closets and a more spacious sleeping area. The signs of being parents to a newborn are particularly evident here, and somehow bring an approachable charm to the space—the crib in the corner, a collection of toys on the bedside table. The whole space is kept neat though and enjoys some pretty great bones, like the clean-lined bed and the large corner windows.

Baz, of course, has his own room, a nursery that the then-expectant parents had excitedly and stylishly put together before he was born. “It was very arranged—I had toys, books and even plants on display,” Divine shares, laughing. “But when Baz was born, everything got rearranged!”

Despite the lifestyle changes that came with having a new baby, it’s clear that Blake and Divine are near-blissful in their home. With Baz, the pair of pooches and a constant wave of visiting family and friends, this chic residence certainly feels like a home—if only for a few more years. “We’re definitely going to move into our own house, especially when Baz gets bigger,” says Blake. “Maybe in two or three years.”

Whenever the move will be happening, one thing’s for sure—the Gos will be enjoying a truly stylish and homey residence until they do.

Related Topics:Blake Go Divine Lee Go Homes Inside Cebu

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Events

The First NUSTAR BALL

Janine Taylor, June Alegrado, Jackie Lotzof, Frances Siao, Ina Ronquillo and Christine Pelaez

The NUSTAR Ballroom, a magnificent venue at the NUSTAR Resort and Casino in Cebu, sets the stage for last night’s first-ever NUSTAR Ball.

Black was the color of night at the Zee table.

Glamorous guests from Manila and Cebu converged at the NUSTAR Ballroom, an exquisite venue within the NUSTAR Resort and Casino in Cebu. The evening unfolded with a seated 5-course dinner. The opulent feast started with Beetroot Salmon Gravlax, adorned with caper berries, caviar, set with delicate edible flowers; and a main course of Compressed Pork Belly with Crackling Skin and Baby Scallops. Another highlight was the auction of coveted items like Dior and YSL handbags, a limited-edition Bulgari watch, and an exclusive 2-night stay in Nustar’s opulent 3-bedroom villa—complete with a private pool and a dedicated butler. The charity evening benefited the Cameleon Association, an NGO based in Iloilo City created in 1997 that developed a global approach to act on the causes and effects of sexual violence against children.

Nora Sol, Beth Go, Frances Siao and Marylou Ong

Ina Ronquillo, Maryanne Aboitiz and Jackie Lotzof

Designers Jun Escario and Philip Rodriguez

Philip Rodriguez with NUSTAR Malls two power ladies: May Adolfo and Joanna Salazar

Lana Osmeña with Mariquita Yeung

PJ Castillo and Kaye Abad with Cary Santiago

Drew Sarmiento with LV Manager Adrian Decuigan

Cary Santiago with Eva Gullas

Manila socialites Julie Boschi and Ching Cruz with June Alegrado

It was a night of elegance, luxury, and unforgettable memories as ladies in long gowns and gentlemen in black ties danced the night away.

Design

Filipino graphic designer makes history, joins Switzerland’s Museum of Avant-garde among genre’s greats

PJ Ong of Inodoro, an internationally renowned graphic designer, is the first Filipino whose work will be part of the permanent collection of Switzerland’s Museum of Avant-garde

CEBU CITY — In a groundbreaking achievement, Cebu-based graphic designer and art director PJ Ong of Inodoro Design Studio, is set to become the first Filipino artist permanently exhibited at Museum of Avant-garde (MA-g) in Mendrisio, Switzerland.

Cebu-based graphic designer and art director of Inodoro Design Studio, PJ Ong

Ong’s recognition at MA-g places him among over 250 avant-garde artists, including iconic figures like Pablo Picasso and Marcel Duchamp, signifying a profound milestone in museum history.

“Avant-garde,” is a term that refers to pushing the boundaries of artistic expression.

“I am extremely honored and humbled. It is a remarkable milestone in my creative journey, and I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of such a prominent platform. The acknowledgment, especially considering Switzerland’s exacting standards in art and design, is truly fulfilling,” said Ong.

Part of a stellar contemporary collection

Under the museum’s Contemporary Collection, Ong will join global contemporary agencies such as M/M Paris (collaborator of Icelandic singer-songwriter and composer, Björk), WORK Pte Ltd (brainchild of the “Godfather of Singapore Graphic Design,” Theseus Chan), Bedow (Stockholm), BVD Stockholm AB (Stockholm), Socio Design (London) and Milkxhake (Hong Kong), among others.

Ong’s music packaging design for the Filipino harsh noise duo, White Widow, will be featured in the museum. The band’s album “The God Uterus Dissolves” — released under Melt Records — features an unconventional cassette tape packaging incorporating a hand-crafted wire mesh, elevating it into a unique and bespoke collector’s item.

The museum’s selection process for its Contemporary Collection involved three categories: Graphic Design, Photography, and Illustration. Swiss-Canadian Fritz Gottschalk, a prominent figure in contemporary graphic design, led the Graphic Design category.

“This is profoundly validating for me as a graphic designer. Being part of a museum’s permanent contemporary collection is a lasting testament to my capabilities as an artist,” said Ong.

‘Poetry you can touch’

The graphic designer from Cebu City further defined the album as a “deliberate departure from the ordinary,” stating that it was a testament to the artist’s and band’s dedication to pushing boundaries and offering the audience a unique and immersive experience.

“Careful consideration was given to every detail, including choosing a premium supplier for the cassette tape. Opting for a screen-printed cassette, where design elements were applied directly to the surface, gave it a contemporary and visually striking result, helping us reinforce the design narrative,” said Ong.

“From the cohesive placement of elements to using symbols instead of track titles on the spine and customizing fonts, every aspect was carefully thought out. Rather than opting for the conventional wire mesh treatment on print, I took a bold step by incorporating a hand-crafted wire mesh, adding a unique and sensory dimension to the album — almost like poetry you can touch.”

Profound honor

Established in 2003, Inodoro Design Studio under Ong’s leadership has garnered global acclaim for its bold design philosophy, spanning music, fashion, architecture, culture and technology. In becoming the first Filipino whose work will be on display at the MA-g, Ong stated that it is “particularly humbling.”

“Traditionally, these privileges are given to individuals who have amassed decades of experience, attained mastery in their craft, or even as a posthumous acknowledgment. To be among those selected is a profound and unexpected honor,” he said.

“Museums typically focus on visual artists, and for a graphic designer, especially within the realm of commercial work, recognition can be more elusive. I appreciate the challenges of this less conventional route and I am committed to proving the significance of graphic design in the broader artistic landscape.”

Art enthusiasts can anticipate viewing Ong’s work with “The God Uterus Dissolves” at MA-g, scheduled to open to the general public in 2025.

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About The Museum of Avant-garde (MA-g)

The Museum of Avant-garde compiles an original body of work from private collections, providing a unique perspective on the cultural and artistic significance of avant-garde movements. These movements, synonymous with transformative ideologies and daring experimentations, played a pivotal role in challenging political and societal conventions. For more information, visit www.ma-g.org.

About Inodoro

Inodoro is the creative moniker of graphic designer and art director PJ Ong, a prominent figure in the Philippine design scene. Established in 2003, Inodoro Design Studio, based in Cebu, Philippines, has garnered international recognition for its bold and distinctive design, with a focus on thought-driven imagery and iconic visual language. The studio specializes in identities, custom typography, graphic design and art direction. For more information, visit www.inodoro-design.com.

People

Ladies Who Support Ladies

Women’s Circle is an organization composed of Cebuano ladies who are successful entrepreneurs and top executives. They recently held a fellowship event at the Sheraton Mactan Resort, with special guests from the Women’s Business Council Philippines. Chairperson, Rosemarie Rafael and Council Secretary Cynthia Mamon both flew in from Manila to discuss alliances between the Cebu and Manila groups.

Loot bag from Jo Malone, Sheraton, R&M Chocomanga, gift card from Maayo Clinic, sarong from Ferimar.

The half day event was organized by Perl Jacalan, Gina Atienza and Eva Gullas. Sheraton Resort through its GM Dottie Wugler Cronin supported the event as it is aligned with the hotel’s women initiatives. The successful event was made more fun with generous give-aways, notably Jo Malone perfumes, Sheraton bags, R&M Chocomanga and sarongs from Ferimar.