Mr. Nelson A. Cruz - A Story of Faith and Perseverance
The Factory Floor.
Plume Design House credits all its doors and millwork in its projects to N.A. Cruz Sash Contractor (NA Cruz). The story begins with its founder, MR. NELSON A. CRUZ ("Mr. Cruz"), who did not have the easiest start in life. As a child, he recalls spending his free time under the tutelage of his elders learning the woodcraft business. It helped that he was somewhat of a math whiz and this developed into his passion for computations and measurements - skills that are undoubtedly crucial in the construction business. Although not able to finish schooling, his enthusiasm for learning made up for the lack of a college degree. He supplemented his education with free courses and gained as much knowledge as he can in the areas of wood, machinery, and construction.
Mr. Cruz is a man who believes in delayed gratification. Abstaining from personal luxuries like houses and cars, he chose instead to reinvest all profits back into the business. Eventually, he was able to save enough money to buy property where he placed his factory in. On what was once farmland, he established his workshops with the help of his family and friends. As the years passed, he was able to grow the business and build connections around the world. Through hard work, passion and determination, N.A. CRUZ became one of the leading woodworks company in Taytay, Rizal.
When asked about his secret to success, he would smile and say "faith." As a devout Christian, Mr. Cruz firmly held on to his belief and principles even in the face of hardship and turmoil. "There is no secret because I share the inner workings of my trade to friends and even competitors," explains Mr. Cruz. He says that being generous has never put him out of business as it is one of the ways by which he can help save a dying industry. When he started his company, there were about 500 of them in the area doing woodworks business. Now, the numbers have significantly dropped with the infiltration of cheaper products from abroad. Mr. Cruz also attributes the decline to generational difference. "Kids nowadays would rather be baggers in groceries and stay in airconditioned environments. They do not want to get their hands dirty anymore," he quips in.
He is not wrong though. Although the factory is filled with heavy machinery, there are some tasks that cannot be replaced with the use of hands. Even the older craftsmen still prefer manual carving to high-tech apparatus. Machines cannot replace the heart that goes into the product through the use of a human's hand.
What is his advocacy now? Mr. Cruz hopes to pass on his woodcraft legacy to the next generations. In 2012, his children established HOME SOLUTIONS BY N.A.C. CO., which is engaged in the business of fit-out contractor services. Due to the increasing demand for design services, as well as the growing relations with other designers and industry-related businesses, it was decided that a separate company be formed. PLUME DESIGN HOUSE was established in 2023 to primarily focus on interior design services and other industry-related collaborations. While mainly charged with design, PLUME also ventures in the retail of unique products crafted in partnership with other designers, artists and artisans. Together, the three (3) companies work harmoniously to provide exceptional quality products and services.
The N. A. Cruz story is one of faith, perseverance, and strong collaboration. It was able to surpass overwhelming odds, allowing a small family business to grow into the group of companies that it is known for today.