The Monogram Experience Center (MEC) 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 Melissa Helvey with Great Floors in Spokane, Washington.
Melissa Helvey, recent participant at the Monogram Experience Center in Louisville, Kentucky
SRFD: How did you become interested in design?
Melissa: Throughout my childhood I had always said I wanted to be a lawyer when I grew up. My senior year in high school I took an interior design class, just to fill my required course load. The first day of class we visited a home construction site, and the minute I stepped in and looked around at the framing and everything coming together. I knew instantly that was what I was meant to do.
SRFD: Tell us about a recent project you really enjoyed.
Melissa: I recently finished a kitchen remodel. My client found me at a Home Show back in April and she came up to me with a sketch on a napkin of her kitchen and said.. I NEED YOU … She had a dreadful existing kitchen that was so small and materials so dark it was like being in a cave. WE worked closely to find a design and materials that would make the space feel more comfortable to be in and more functional. Throughout the project she would send me photos almost daily, so excited about the progress. At the end of the project she called me in tears. I said, Mary, what’s the matter? Are you not happy with your kitchen? She said, “I LOVE it! I can’t tell you how much I love it and how much I appreciate all your help.” It wasn’t an award-winning design or even very creative, but this really captures why I do what I do. I love being able to help people have a better life. Help them through what can be a very difficult process and experience their joy at the end.
SRFD: A trend you’re over?
Melissa: Hand-scraped hardwood floors. They still very popular in the inland Northwest…and I think they should be banned 😉
SRFD: A trend you’re excited about?
Melissa: I still love the greys. I know it’s been trending for quite a while, but in my neck of the woods were pretty slow to catch on to the trends.
SRFD: What did you learn in Louisville?
Melissa: I was so impressed with how much research and thought goes into the Monogram product line. It was so amazing to see the 3D printing technology and learn how it has improved and sped up the research process.
I wasn’t familiar with all the capabilities of the Avantium technology. I called my husband back at home the day we learned about it and told him we were getting one!
Save Room For Design by Monogram Appliances 