Tahanan Studio
Tahanan
2022–24
Melbourne, Australia
Business Development Advisor, Brand Designer, Packaging Design Collaborator, Shopify Website Design and Development Support
Tahanan (tah.hah.nan) means “home” in Filipino/Tagalog, symbolising a deep sense of belonging, comfort, and connection.
Located in Melbourne’s west, Tahanan is a thoughtfully curated, community-based retail and creative space. It serves as a sanctuary for collaboration, culture, celebration, rest, and creativity. With a strong commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing, Tahanan aims to positively impact the planet and the communities it engages with, fostering a space where people can connect with meaningful products and experiences.
As a key contributor to Tahanan’s development, I played a pivotal role in shaping its identity and business direction. My contributions spanned brand design, packaging, website support, and the launch of new product lines.
I was entrusted with shaping Tahanan’s brand identity, ensuring alignment with its vision. My work included designing the brand identity and logo, creating retail and storefront signage, collaborating on packaging design, and providing Shopify website support.
One of the first major milestones for Tahanan was the release of its debut Candle Collection in early 2024. This collection featured handcrafted, Filipino-inspired scents designed to evoke warmth, nostalgia, and connection to home. I played a collaborative role in refining the product presentation through packaging design, ensuring that every detail—from labels to materials—reflected the brand’s values of craftsmanship and sustainability.
Beyond retail, Tahanan has expanded into a creative studio space, providing a venue for workshops, events, and artist residencies. This evolution furthers its mission to support community and cultural expression, offering a nurturing environment for creatives and practitioners.
For more information, visit Tahanan’s website and Instagram.
Space and product photos by Tahanan Studio
“Working with Maysie has been seamless—she is professional, easy to communicate with, and truly takes the time to understand the deeper essence of Tahanan Studio. As a fellow Filipina, she has a lived understanding of the cultural nuances I aim to capture, while also bringing her expertise in design, branding, and our clientele. Her insight and approach make her an invaluable collaborator. Looking forward to continue working together as our brand evolves.”
Founder, Tahanan Studio