Abt Inspiration Studio Opening

Written by Christina Dragota, Monogram Lead Product Specialist

Abt is the nation’s largest single-store retailer of electronics and appliances in the country, showcasing over 100,000 square feet of numerous products to choose from. Located in Glenview, Illinois, they are famous for being a one-stop shop, spanning from kitchen appliances to home entertainment systems. Already well-known within the industry, Abt decided to outdo themselves yet again with their Inspiration Studio.

Bob Abt’s vision was “to create a completely unique and unexpected space that showcases the best luxury appliance brands available and exposes Abt’s customers to innovations in kitchen design.” In order to do so, Bob contacted colleague and internationally recognized designer, Mick De Giulio, who owns de Giulio Kitchen Design. Since the pair has worked together for over 25 years, “Bob gave Mick total artistic freedom to bring his vision to life through Mick’s unique style and creative eye.” The additional 10,000 square feet, located in the loft area of Abt’s famous atrium, features “twelve interconnected spaces with each devoted to a particular manufacturer, showcasing its own style.”

Monogram showcased its own style by displaying 22 of our unique products spread throughout the vignette, varying from our champagne-flushed induction cooktop to the commercial-modeled French door wall oven.

In 2013, Monogram originally debuted our Design Center in downtown Chicago located within the Merchandise Mart, and continues to hold training, demonstrations and overall product experiences. Having another Monogram display within Abt’s Inspiration Studio, opens up more possibilities to those not living in Chicago but who still want the opportunity to explore new kitchen concepts.

Sadly, Bob Abt never had the chance to see his idea come to life since he passed away in 2015, but his memory lives on throughout his family and his employees. He took a small family-owned business which started in 1936 and turned it into something bigger than what anyone could have imagined. “We named the space the Inspiration Studio because Dad was an inspiration to the entire staff at Abt who respected him not just as a boss, but as a mentor,” says Mike Abt.

Monogram is excited to be a part of what the Abt brand stands for and what the future holds.