Category: Monogram

An Urban Firehouse in Dallas

by  on  in Inspiration, Interview, Monogram

Written by Kim Mays, content strategist for Monogram Appliances

An inspired love for modern architecture and a need for a unique local event venue led Ginger Curtis, to create the Urban Firehouse in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. The elegant, contemporary space serves as home to Urbanology Designs, but also contains private offices and a large event rental space with kitchen area that features Monogram appliances.

As president of Urbanology Designs, Curtis loves the unique architecture of the former fire house. The former bays where firetrucks were housed now features paned glass windows and large double doors that open to a spacious rental area with polished concrete floors and modern accents. It’s perfect for a small wedding reception or company party. From the photo gallery, you can see it is a flexible, beautiful space that follows Curtis’ “relaxed, modern, California-casual vibe” that can be found in a lot of her designs.

The Urban Fire House includes five areas: the engine room, conference room, kitchen, private bathrooms, and an outdoor patio with expansive back garden. Flooring in the conference room is wide white oak plank, which stands out nicely against the painted walls done in All White by Farrow and Ball, which is used extensively throughout the venue. The cabinetry in the kitchen continues the wood tone with rift sawn white oak cabinets with slab fronts. Says Curtis, “I absolutely love our cabinetry—it really makes all the appliances and décor sing.” The countertops are Cambria quartz, which continues the bright, airy California-coast feel.

According to Curtis, her team is in love with the Monogram appliances: “Not only are they beautiful and functional, but we get compliments on them all the time. By far our favorite feature is the Autofill water pitcher in our column refrigerator.”

We love the look of this unique, multi-function space and are honored that they chose Monogram to finish out the kitchen space.

Form and Function: New Monogram Website is Sleek, Modern — And User-Friendly

by  on  in Monogram

The new Monogram collections feature high-end appliances designed to function as fabulously as they look.

The same can be said for the redesigned Monogram website.

Monogram tapped into the expertise of master designers to create a contemporary feel for its new Statement Collection and Minimalist Collection, both of which were launched in early 2020. The end result: luxury appliances that exude elevated craftsmanship, meticulously selected materials and attention to detail.

These characteristics are reflected in the new-and-improved Monogram website, too.

“I would describe the new aesthetics as bold but tasteful, airy and sophisticated,” Marie Davis, senior digital marketer with Monogram, says of the new website. “We are using larger, more full-width imagery, which gives the site a very modern feel.”

The site’s design is elegant and unobtrusive, taking a backseat to the images that highlight the brand.

“We really wanted to showcase the design elements of the new collections in the beautiful kitchen photography throughout the site, and on the Statement Collection and Minimalist Collection pages,” Davis says. “We also highlight key materials or performance features in each product line, such as the sapphire crystal knobs on our gas cooktops. It really helps to tell the story of the quality materials and engineering of our products.”

The site’s aesthetic is modern and sleek, yet it doesn’t sacrifice function for the sake of form — which perfectly aligns with the Monogram brand.

The website now features a more streamlined navigation, enabling users to see product specifications in fewer clicks. It also shows key features and specs on product results pages to allow for quick reference while browsing.

“We know that a significant percentage of appliance shoppers begin their journey online, so we want to have a beautiful destination where they can explore our products and easily find information and specifications,” Davis says. “User experience is an important part of site design.”

And though the new site is subtle and sophisticated, it’s far from boring. There are engaging animations and interactive features, along with personalized touches, such as quotes from designers highlighting what they love about particular Monogram products.

When asked what inspired the look of the new Monogram website, senior UX designer Amber Glisson points to the streamlined luxury feel and refined aesthetic of both the Statement Collection and the Minimalist Collection.

“It is important to show the elegance in the industrial design and thoughtfulness of the engineering with every opportunity we have in marketing to a savvy luxury audience,” Glisson says. “A website is often the first touchpoint someone experiences as they are researching what to buy. The more effectively we provide them with the information they need to find the right fit, the more likely they are to want to experience the appliances firsthand.”

Take a look at the new website — and come back often, as Monogram will update the site regularly throughout the year to reflect new products as they are released.

Monogram Takes it to The Next Level at KBIS

by  on  in Designer Council, Event, Inspiration, Monogram, Trends

In 2019, Monogram made an indelible mark at the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS) with a booth exquisitely executed by respected designer Richard Anuszkiewicz. The impeccable space wowed designers, builders, homeowners, architects and everyone in attendance, nabbing the honor of Best Large Booth at the renowned trade show.

“This year, we wanted to take it to the next level,” says Richard, who is once again leading the design of Monogram’s booth at KBIS, which takes place in Las Vegas from Jan. 21-23.

“In every which way we tried to heighten the space. It’s a true showpiece,” adds Richard, who describes the Monogram designs as “future-minded, but with a nod to the past that honors the heritage of craftsmanship.”

The stunning KBIS booth has a theater-like quality, with plush velvet curtains serving as a backdrop to the stars of the show: two separate kitchens featuring Monogram’s new Statement Collection and Minimalist Collection, which were launched in early 2020. Both designs exude thought-provoking concepts, meticulously selected materials and attention to detail.

The Statement Kitchen is a contemporary take on French gourmet influence. It showcases a library wall book case with integrated floating wall ovens and a classic French hearth custom hood above Monogram’s never-before-seen 48-inch professional range and bespoke gold hearth oven. An exotic eucalyptus refrigeration armoire in a starburst tailored grain pattern with leather stitched appliance handles is a show‐stopper.

The Minimalist Kitchen takes inspiration from a dining room setting. The centerpiece of this modern room is a fresh take on a Parson’s table, with both gas and induction cooking elements suspended like pieces of art. The table is comprised of hand‐planed wood, stainless steel counters with brass-inlay detailing. Bringing further dimension to an often‐austere palette, the Minimalist kitchen has two signature brass refrigeration panels by Richard Anuszkiewicz.

“We wanted to bring our booth to life in a multifaceted way by incorporating an interactive ‘show within a show” to enhance and engage each of the audience’s five senses, to stand out from the crowd, and to be ‘The Greatest Showman,’” says Christina Reed, Monogram’s Senior Manager of Custom Display Design. “From enhanced cooking technology to meticulously curated materials, the attendees will be taken on the Monogram brand story and find an appreciation for the finer details used within our products.”

The design team focused on showcasing forward-thinking design — from exotic woods to fine-quality metals — and state-of-the-art products that highlight the mark of luxury you can see and feel.

“2020 is the year of Monogram,” Christina says, “and we are setting a new tone while also elevating to the next standard of luxury unprecedented in this industry.”

Follow along on social media with the hashtag #markofmonogram

Designer Samantha Oaks’ Fashion Career Led Her Straight into Interior Design

by  on  in Interview, Monogram, Profile

Written by Kim Mays, Monogram content strategist

Samantha Oaks used her fashion experience to design the rooms in her home out of necessity. “I built a custom home a few years ago and the builder didn’t have a designer,” she said. So, Oaks decided she knew her style best and took on the role herself. “Designing for me came organically. I came from a fashion industry background and was always inspired by color, shapes, and mixing materials,” Oaks explained. Working with her builder, she was able to design her ideal home: “We created the most beautiful space together, and I fell in love with the build and design process,” she said. That love became her new career six years ago and in 2015, she started Lucien Porter Design.

Oaks looks to many fashion icons for home inspiration. “For me it all starts with fashion: Alexander McQueen, Vivienne Westwood, Helmut Lang, and Christian LaCroix just to name a few,” she said. Other designers Oaks admires are also inspired by fashion and she sees that in their work. “I find elements of fashion in designs by Martin Lawrence Bullard, Curtis Elmy, and Powell Architects,” she added.

She loves bringing together unconventional details in her designs. Said Oaks, “I lean towards simple and clean with a little character like doors from the late 1800s and adding a contemporary twist. Each room will have a subtle wow factor but still maintain an overall flow.”

For kitchen designs, Oaks likes to use a variety of elements for texture and color. “I love mixing materials! One of my favorites is incorporating reclaimed wood in shelving or countertops,” she said. Oaks is also a fan of Monogram appliances; particularly the Advantium oven, which comes in handy for busy families. “I love recommending the convenience and function of the Advantium,” she said.

In fact, Oaks has an Advantium oven at home that she uses a lot. “I use my Monogram  Advantium oven every day,” she added, “It’s great for large meals or baking or just cooking for one.” Oaks also loves her Monogram range’s griddle feature, which she frequently uses for “gooey grilled cheese sandwiches and Sunday morning pancakes.”

Said Oaks, “If I weren’t a designer, I’d probably… be a chef. I cook anything from crusted red snapper in the oven to lobster paella and homemade chocolate chip cookies, too.” We’d love to be a guest at Samantha’s table just to taste all the delicious dishes she creates in her stunning kitchen with her Monogram appliances.

Mid-Century Modern Renovation by Studio 513 Architects

by  on  in Inspiration, kitchen, Monogram, Remodel

Photographs © Greg Benson

Written by Brad Barker, AIA, LEED AP, Studio: 513 Architects, LLC

I did what most architects do, Graduate architecture school, obtain my license and buy a house that needs to be fixed up. Where else could I explore my creative talent early in my career? I found a one- of-a-kind mid-century modern house in Cherry Hill, New Jersey. Much of the town saw a boom in the 60’s and 70’s, but most of the mid-century modern style was incorporated into restaurants and office buildings. The house had been changed over the years and did not reflect its former style. My goal was to bring it back to its former glory while incorporating touches of current design. I used the main living space to accentuate the details I fell in love with, such as the open floor plan, post and beam structure, and great views to the lush wooded lot.

Photographs © Greg Benson

Before and during architecture school I worked in a restaurant as a cook for eight years. I learned that having good quality appliances was key to cooking good food. So, when I was selecting appliances,  Monogram had the clean line style I was looking for with the true tested name of GE behind it. It was a perfect fit for my kitchen.

Photographs © Greg Benson

 

Monogram Elevates Newport Mansions Wine and Food Festival

by  on  in Event, Monogram, Tips

This past weekend, Monogram sponsored the Newport Mansions Wine and Food Festival in Newport, Rhode Island, for the third time. They impressed attendees by highlighting Monogram’s luxury appliances and dynamic chefs alongside fabulous wine, food and an exquisite ocean view.

As the sponsor of the Culinary Stage, Monogram shone by highlighting its induction cooktop, wall ovens, column refrigerators and microwave drawer. Chef Jon Liddell of the Monogram Design Center kicked off the weekend by cooking live on The Rhode Show from the Culinary Stage. Chef Justin Chapple, Culinary Director At Large for Food & Wine, also partnered with Monogram this year and hosted live cooking demonstrations from the Culinary Stage during the festival.

Additionally, Chef Justin and Chef Jon flipped artisanal pizzas in the Monogram Hearth Oven, keeping attendees lined up all weekend for more.

 

Justin Chapple to Headline Monogram’s Tasting Tent at Newport Food & Wine Fest

by  on  in Event, Interview, Monogram

Written by Kim Mays, Monogram content strategist

If you haven’t already made plans, you should join us in attending the yearly Newport Mansions Wine & Food Festival on September 19 through the 22. The event features world-class wines and award-winning chefs mingled with the extraordinary beauty of the Newport Mansions including The Breakers, Marble House, and Rosecliff. The festival is sponsored by Food & Wine magazine, and this year Monogram Appliances sponsors the culinary stage. On that stage, Food & Wine culinary director at large and amazing chef, writer and video star Justin Chapple will create some delicious dishes while dishing out some of his Mad Genius Tips to attendees.

Chapple has been featured in People, The Oprah Magazine, and Real Simple, and has been twice nominated for the prestigious James Beard Award for his work as host of the popular video series Mad Genius Tips. Prior to joining Food & Wine, he was a cook at a fine French restaurant, Allegretti, which has since closed. When interviewed for Save Room for Design, Chapple admitted missing restaurant work in general, but loving that he has managed to make a fulfilling career in the food industry.

As a kid in the days before Food Network and Cooking channel, Chapple “loved watching Jacques Pépin, Martin Yan, and the Two Fat Ladies on TV.” These classic TV chefs inspired him to cook at home, but it was a certain family member who gave him the impetus to go into the field fulltime. “Really, my Grandma Barbara taught me to love food enough to make a career out of it. She was an outstanding cook and would create incredible meals practically out of thin air,” said Chapple.

That love of feeding family and friends is one of his favorite aspects of cooking. “Nothing gives me more satisfaction than knowing someone is enjoying one of my creations,” Chapple said.

When it comes to developing his own recipes, he’s often inspired by other restaurants. Though he loves eating at different places and trying new foods, he sometimes only needs to read about a dish for inspiration. “Believe it or not, I read menus even if I don’t get to a restaurant for a meal,” Chapple said.

Chapple is very excited to attend the Newport Food & Wine Festival—“I definitely can’t wait to see these mansions that everyone is telling me about,” he said. He is eager to make pizzas and more in the Monogram tasting tent, where he knows he’ll get to meet many people attending the events. “Hopefully, they won’t mind me taking lots of selfies,” he quipped.

Though he wouldn’t give us his secret recipes in advance, he did admit that he will be demonstrating some Mad Genius Tips during his cooking demonstrations. One in particular will be about how to poach eggs in advance, “yes, it’s actually possible!” Chapple said.

In the Monogram Hearth Oven, Chapple will be making a summery pizza with turkey sausage, Brussels sprouts, and pesto. “It’s so yummy and believe it or not, in the Monogram Hearth Oven, it takes only two minutes to cook!”

We will be attending the Newport Food & Wine Festival to enjoy the many delicious wines and foods as well as to take in the beauty of the mansion homes. But our favorite spot will definitely be in the tasting tent with Justin Chapple and we hope you will join us!

A Modernist at Heart

by  on  in Designer Council, Interview, Monogram, Profile

Written by Kim Mays, content strategist for Monogram

A modernist at heart, Nicholas Moriarty found a way to satisfy his intellectual and creative sides: interior design. As a child, he “spent countless hours watching This Old House,” which delved into the ways an older space could be renovated to become something more modern and spectacular. It prepared him for his ultimate career path, where he shines among his peers.

Bucktown living room designed by Nicolas Moriarty

“I’m a modernist at heart,” Moriarty said. His favorite design periods are Bauhaus and Art Deco, which were both very forward-thinking at the time of their popularity, and aspects of both are very relevant today. “The design principles of these eras never really faded away—they just adapted,” said Moriarty.

In that vein of thought, Moriarty feels that the new Monogram Minimalist Collection speaks to his design aesthetic and epitomizes the modernist principles. The elimination of handles and knobs wherever possible harkens to the Modernist principle where removal of ornamentation and excessive decoration was important to the style. Modernism also brought forth the ideal that craftsmanship was of utmost importance, which Monogram also takes very seriously. Each appliance is meticulously engineered to function as fabulously as it looks. And to Moriarty, they’re worth every penny: “The amazing cost to quality ratio [for Monogram appliances] is second to none in the industry.”

Monogram Minimalist Collection single wall oven launching in 2020

When designing modern, upscale kitchens, Moriarty feels that balancing functionality with aesthetic can be quite challenging. “As a home cook, I inherently know the ins and outs of a properly functioning kitchen’ sometimes minimal design is at odds with this,” he said. To ensure the cooking space functions as well as it looks, his team spends a great deal of time guiding their clients through the entire design process so they can provide a kitchen that looks sleek, but still provides the right tools and space for culinary creativity.

Moriarty hopes that as a designer, he can engage with brands like Monogram to pass on his insights. “I want to help push the industry forward in any way I can.” Being on the Monogram Designer Council is one way he is sharing his ideas and gathering input from other designers. Moriarty loves “the comradery that exists between all of the designers,” and said “I truly appreciate how receptive Monogram is as a company to constructive criticism. They want to make the industry better with us, which I think speaks volumes about who they are as a brand.”

We agree, Nicholas. And we look forward to learning more about what our designers want and need through their investment in the Designer Council.

Forge Clear Ice System Now Open for Pre-Orders

by  on  in Monogram

Use code “MONOGRAM” to receive special launch pricing. Pre-order now.

“If you’ve read my books, you know I wouldn’t ordinarily recommend putting ice in your whiskey. But there’s a reason why Forge is the first product I’ve endorsed.” —Fred Minnick, Spirits Author, Historian, and Editor-in-Chief of Bourbon+, who signed on to help launch the Forge Clear Ice System

The Forge Clear Ice System brings the experience of the world’s best bars into your home—and it’s available for pre-order starting June 19. 

The Forge Clear Ice System is an addition to your home bar that elevates the way you experience fine spirits, whether you’re entertaining friends or winding down from a hard day’s work. It includes:

  • A countertop ice maker that makes large blocks of clear, gem-shaped ice
  • A one-of-a-kind heated ice press
  • Specially engineered ice tongs

The clear ice maker creates large gem-shaped blocks of clear ice in just hours and holds them at the ideal temperature. The heated press then shapes the gems into crystal-like spheres in about a minute with virtually no preheat or recovery time needed.

To propel Forge into the production phase, pre-orders must reach a minimum quantity within the launch period. When you place your order, you’ll be joining the more than 12,000 other people who have pre-ordered products from FirstBuild – from the Opal Nugget Ice Maker to the Paragon Ultimate Smart Cooking System.

Enter code “MONOGRAM” upon checkout to receive special launch pricing when you reserve your Forge Clear Ice System. Pre-order today.

Watch our video to see the Forge in action.