The GE Monogram Experience Center brings designers to Louisville, Kentucky, for three-day experiences to learn about Monogram, the design process, our appliances – and even cook with them! We interviewed each designer to learn a little more about their background and design experiences.
Today’s profile highlights Guillermo Bazua with Lori Carroll & Associates in Tucson, Arizona.
Guillermo Bazua, recent designer attendee at the Monogram Experience Center in Louisville, KY
SRFD: How did you become interested in design?
Guillermo: I first started with design as a graphic artist, but before then, I was fascinated with comics and the very unique graphic illustration style. This love propelled me to Illustration and advertising art. Graphic arts prepared me for the fundamentals of design. I fell in love with buildings and homes more particularly, on a trip to Wausau, Wisconsin, about 14 or 15 years ago. I can still see the huge leaves falling as I watched a family playing between the trees in front of their home.
SRFD: Tell us about a recent project you really enjoyed.
Guillermo: I enjoy most of the projects I’m involved in, but a recent kitchen and laundry room remodel comes to mind. We are using the same footprint of the existing kitchen, but adding a big twist. We have concealed the pantry opening with a wall of cabinets and integrated refrigeration, along with adding a hidden door opening. Doing so allowed the existing pantry space to double without moving any structural walls.
SRFD: A trend you’re over?
Guillermo: I’m getting close to being over stainless steel appliances. New stainless steel finishes make finger prints not as noticeable, but they are still there. Keeping them looking “showroom” is impossible in a home with kids and active cooking.
SRFD: A trend you’re excited about?
Guillermo: Different appliance finishes. GE has a very good looking color with their slate.
SRFD: What did you learn in Louisville?
Guillermo: My perceptions didn’t meet the reality, I have always thought highly of GE products. But being in the high end market and specifying the big three, I never considered GE to be on the same playing field. I was grossly mistaken. Monogram has more than a few products that should go in many high end kitchens, the Advantium oven being the first.
Save Room For Design by Monogram Appliances 