Category: Monogram

Zac Posen Reveals Custom Couture-Inspired Monogram Refrigerator Panel

by  on  in Event, Monogram

Monogram is rolling out the red carpet to debut a Column refrigerator door panel artfully conceived by style and fashion icon Zac Posen. With intricate details from the charcoal mirror finish to the fabric inspired details, Zac Posen’s door panel exudes sophistication that will help its owners realize the endless opportunities for custom design.

Posen, a judge for Lifetime’s “Project Runway,” is renowned for dressing leading women, including Michelle Obama, Gwyneth Paltrow, Uma Thurman and Rihanna. Also an avid culinary artist and author of the cookbook Cooking with Zac, Posen collaborated with Monogram to bring his signature runway style to luxury kitchens.

“I’m a great believer in handcrafted products—it is part of the DNA of who I am, my brand and the clothing I make,” Posen said. “Creativity and elegance can live anywhere, and I find my inspiration in working with form and shape. When designing for Monogram, I was thinking about how clothing is wrapped around the body and how that can be translated to move over a flat form. There’s a level of precision and detail in all facets of the Monogram Column refrigerator that makes it more than an appliance—it is a work of thoughtfully crafted artistic expression.”

Like Posen, Monogram is known for its finely crafted details and distinctive styles that adorn the homes of owners with refined tastes. The Monogram column is expertly engineered with LED interior lighting, autofill pitcher and WiFi connectivity.

“Our owners crave personalization and sophistication—and Zac’s door panel is an inspired example of what a Column refrigerator can be,” said Keith Larsen, executive director, Monogram. “We use only the finest materials from the LED lighting to the finely polished stainless-steel accents. In combination with Zac’s signature style, the Monogram Column refrigerator is the ultimate culmination of high fashion and high function.”

Posen is among an elite galleria of world-class artisans that Monogram has enlisted to celebrate the craftsmanship of Monogram appliances. Defined by purposeful design and complemented by one-of-a-kind creations, Monogram offers topline ranges, refrigerators, ovens, dishwashers and more.

“When I’m in the kitchen, I want my appliances to be as refined as my recipes,” Posen said. “The Monogram Column refrigerator is elegant. It is so meticulously crafted. It’s a hand-finished product so it really deserved to have an equally beautiful, handcrafted door panel. Together, we have created an inspiration for how column appliances can uniquely personalized.”

Fashion icon Zac Posen, celebrity A-lister Brooke Shields and GE Appliances Vice President of Marketing and Brand Mary Putman celebrated the launch of his newly-designed refrigerator column for the Monogram appliance collection at The Pool hotspot in New York.

Monogram at Modernism

by  on  in Event, Monogram

Written by Courtney Kruer, Monogram Appliances

Monogram was on the road again in February, this time for Modernism Week’s signature annual event that celebrates midcentury modern design, architecture, fashion, art and culture. The celebration is held in beautiful and sunny Palm Springs, California, and includes over 350 fabulous events. These events range from the Modernism Show & Sale where Monogram exhibited our luxury appliances to signature home tours, films, nightly parties and so much more.

Being the only appliance brand at the show, Monogram sure drew a crowd with special thanks to our Executive Chef Jon Lidell. Jon flawlessly demonstrated the effortlessness of our signature Advantium speed cook oven and 36” induction cooktop with gourmet bites for the masses all weekend long.

You know you have the perfect chef when even seconds aren’t enough for the crowd. It’s safe to say that we converted plenty of consumers not only to be induction and Advantium lovers, but Monogram supporters as well.

 

After such a successful weekend, what’s the best way to celebrate in Palm Springs other than the legendary Twin Palms Frank Sinatra Estate?

Thanks to our Designer Engagement Leader for the West, Elise Raydo, the night was exquisite. The intimacy of the gathering in such an iconic setting, where Sinatra’s original recording equipment is still held, had the Monogram team and guests in complete awe.

Every bathroom except one was the original and almost all of the furniture was historic, which made you feel as though you were truly celebrating with Frank himself.

Jon Lidell served up some lovely bites for appetizers made in our pizza oven and the what seemed like endless courses served by Workshop Kitchen + Bar outside by the piano shaped pool were to die for. Talk about Elevating Everything!

From Overlooked to Outstanding – the Monogram Gas Cooktop

by  on  in kitchen, Monogram

The gas cooktop generally goes unnoticed in the kitchen—that is, until now. On a mission to Elevate Everything, Monogram has taken this often-overlooked kitchen appliance and turned it into a focal point and a source of pride with finely crafted materials, innovative technology and the power to boil fast and simmer ultra-low.

“The Monogram Gas Cooktop is modern and beautiful, yet robust in appearance and power,” said Ed Mammorella, Monogram marketing manager. “From the sapphire crystal glass knobs to the brass burners, it goes above and beyond what is expected of gas cooktops.”

It has beauty that will be the envy of the neighborhood
Available in 30- and 36-inch models, the Monogram Gas Cooktop features five burners with brass accents, stainless brushed knobs sealed with sapphire glass with an LED light indicator and linear grates that provide a sleek, contemporary appearance. The 36-inch model also features an LED timer, a rarity among gas cooktops.

WiFi and Bluetooth® connectivity provide convenience and peace of mind
Ever left home wondering if you turned off an appliance? With the Monogram Gas Cooktop, owners don’t have to wonder because they can monitor the cooktop status using a smart device. The WiFi feature also enables owners to set timers from smart devices, while Bluetooth enables a connection between the cooktop and the vent hood.

Built to perform, built to last
Crafted with only the finest materials, Monogram Gas Cooktops are built to stand the test of time, even for those who put their cooktops to the test morning, noon and night. Featuring the refined quality of four dual-flame burners with a 20,000 BTU center burner, this powerful cooktop allows owners to boil fast and simmer ultra-low for delicate foods.

“Owners love the gas cooktops for their beauty and functionality, and designers love them for their modern appearance and fine detailing down to the polish of the grates,” Mammorella said. “It is just another way we are staying true to our commitment to Elevate Everything in the kitchen.”

Make Restaurant-Worthy Pizza at Home with Monogram

by  on  in kitchen, Monogram, Technology

Those looking for pizzeria-quality performance in an oven specially handcrafted for the home can achieve the perfect slice with the 30″ Monogram® Pizza Oven.

Now available in two striking styles, this indoor electric oven makes a bold statement with its dimensional design and lower vent system, or it can blend seamlessly into the lines of surrounding cabinetry for those who favor a subtle façade.

Introduced in 2016, the Monogram Pizza Oven combines the crisping performance of traditional coal- and wood-burning ovens with the precision and elegance of a sophisticated stainless-steel appliance. From touch LCD controls preset for multiple cooking options (including flatbreads) to perfectly placed electric heating zones, every aspect of this elegant pie maker is expressly designed to meet or exceed the capabilities of the best restaurant pizza ovens.

“From a simple four-cheese crowd-pleaser to a gourmet Neapolitan masterpiece, if you can imagine it, you can make it in your own kitchen with Monogram,” said Greg Delmonico, Monogram product merchandising manager. “And now, thanks to our top engineers and craftsmen, we are proud to offer two ultra-sleek designs that can add appeal to any design aesthetic.”

This innovative pizza oven is just another way Monogram is helping home chefs Elevate Everything™ in the kitchen, from its classic look to its ability to turn out perfectly crispy, bubbly, tasty crust. Developed through FirstBuild™, GE Appliances’ model microfactory of inspired appliance ideas, the Monogram Pizza Oven boasts other notable features, including:

  • Simple Installation

Fits a standard 30-inch wide cabinet cutout and requires no additional ductwork or ventilation.

  • Connected Capabilities

WiFi-enabled for use with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and Drop. Additionally, timers and mode changes can be made in an instant using the mobile app.

  • Matchless Quality

Each component is handcrafted by true masters of their art down to the last detail.

“From its brushed stainless exterior to its intuitive controls, there’s a higher level of refinement that’s evident in our indoor pizza oven,” Delmonico said. “Monogram aims to impress with every detail, and we’re confident owners will agree we’ve delivered beyond expectations.”

Monogram Columns: Luxury Inside and Out

by  on  in Monogram

On a mission to Elevate Everything in the kitchen, Monogram has redefined luxury with its line of refrigerators and freezers that can be mixed, matched and relocated to reflect the style, personality and needs of the owner. Monogram Columns can blend seamlessly with cabinetry and are thoughtfully designed with industry-exclusive features and only the finest materials inside and out.

“Cookie-cutter doesn’t cut it in the kitchen anymore. When it comes to the heart of the home, it’s all about personalization and giving owners something that truly reflects their lifestyle,” said Sheri Gold, national showroom and design manager, Monogram. “Designers have fallen in love with Monogram Columns and the unique features the line offers. From the lighting and accents to the connected features and simplified installation, it is the leader in the category.”

On the inside, owners can see and feel the difference from the glass shelves and accents to warm lighting that casts an appealing glow. On the outside, the Monogram Columns line gives designers the freedom to create an elegant space without boundaries. Monogram Columns is also the only product line in its class to offer smart, connected features that put owners in control anytime, from anywhere.

“So much pride and passion have gone into the design,” said Ed Mammorella, marketing manager, Monogram. “Every associate at our dedicated Monogram Columns facility in Selmer, Tennessee, has had a hand in bringing owners an unmatched combination of elegance and thoughtful features that truly Elevate Everything in the kitchen.”

Monogram Columns enable designers to separate appliances, double up on refrigeration or freezer space and even tuck away appliances that are used less often. For retrofits, two Monogram Columns are also designed to seamlessly fit 42-inch or 48-inch openings without the need for cabinet or electrical modifications.

Additional features that set Monogram Columns apart from the rest include:

  • Accent lighting that highlights glass shelving and drawers with a warm, aesthetically appealing glow
  • An autofill pitcher that sits conveniently on the center shelf to automatically refill cold, filtered water
  • Antimicrobial nano-coatings on glass shelving that cause liquid spills to bead versus spread for easy cleanup
  • A soft-etched line on the shelving that prevents spills from crossing the threshold of the door
  • Full-extension soft-close drawers that function like high-end cabinetry
  • Temperature-controlled glass drawers that offer added storage flexibility for items like deli, fruits and vegetables
  • Customizable panels that sit flush for seamless sightlines
  • Connected features that include nighttime snack-mode lighting, temperature control and notifications when the door is left open or when the water filter needs to be replaced

Sneak Peek: Monogram Kitchen Island

by  on  in Event, Monogram, Technology

Written by Courtney Kruer, Commercial Development Program – Monogram

Need another reason to believe that Monogram is Elevating Everything in the kitchen? We have it for you. Meet the exclusive Monogram Kitchen Island that was debuted at KBIS this January.

Monogram transformed a typical meeting room into a retro, speakeasy-styled, VIP lounge with the lit up Kitchen Island as the focal point of the dimly lit space. The brand went all out with Flapper girls, signature cocktails, delicious hors d’oeuvres, and of course, a cop to break up the “prohibited” speakeasy party at the end of each exclusive session.

So what exactly is the Monogram Kitchen Island? Brought to the KBIS show as a concept piece to get feedback on how we can perfect this luxury item before the launch, it’s a multi-functional 3.6’ x 7.87’ sheet of the finest black glass-ceramic that is much more than just your standard kitchen island. The elegant Monogram Kitchen Island includes fully integrated induction cooking technology. Therefore, the entire surface is seamless, but has the Monogram five burner induction cooktop with glide-touch controls built right into part of the sheet of glass. This means you can also utilize the WiFi capabilities of our exclusive First Build induction cooking probe for sous vide cooking to achieve perfect cooking results every time you cook. The Kitchen Island also includes a warming zone built into the island that’s perfect for entertaining your guests, whether it’s warming appetizers or keeping your chocolate at the perfect temperature for fondue.

Since all of this technology is seamless, when you’re not cooking, the entire surface acts as your island countertop, workspace, or favorite spot for poker night with friends. However, it doesn’t just have induction cooking technology built-in. The 6 mm thick glass ceramic also has wireless charging capabilities in spots throughout it. So not only can you charge your phone by laying it on the wireless port, but it can also effortlessly power your cordless countertop appliances that are becoming more and more common in everyday consumer’s homes. Talk about wowing your guests in so many ways with something that none of them have.

While this debut of our Monogram Kitchen Island was a concept, we plan on launching the luxury appliance by 2019 due to the overwhelmingly positive response we got at KBIS from designers, dealers, builders and more. Stay tuned for the final launch details on exactly how big it will be, what color options will be available, what shapes it may come in, and what other exciting capabilities could get added to the centerpiece that could Elevate Everything in the kitchens of tomorrow.

Learn about Universal Design

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Curious about Universal Design? Listen to this Dave Fox podcast to learn how Universal Design and Monogram’s WiFi Connected Smart Appliances help you think about designing your new kitchen – for you, older members in your family, and children with needs.

Susan Cozzi, Monogram Designer Engagement Leader—East Region, and Nicole Bursh, GE Appliances Area Sales Manager, joined Gary Demos, President of Dave Fox Design-Build Remodelers in Columbus, Ohio, to talk about how you can create the most modern of kitchens or the most traditional using Universal Design principles, all while ensuring that your kitchen will be as functional as possible by as many people as possible, regardless of their ability—the true hub of your home.

Over 17,000 listeners heard the podcast when it aired on iHeartRADIO. Now it’s your chance to learn how a Monogram Smart Kitchen with voice activation using Amazon Echo and Google Home, and an app on your smartphone, can elevate everything in your kitchen.

 

Monogram at KBIS 2018

by  on  in Campaign, Event, Monogram

Written by Courtney Kruer, Commercial Development Program – Monogram

Monogram booth at KBIS

The Monogram team traveled down to Orlando, Florida, for the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show last week to showcase our brand to an array of designers, retailers, remodelers, builders and architects. KBIS is truly breathtaking in how large of an event it is and how many people are in attendance. The convention showcases over 600 leading brands in the industry, engaging everyone in the latest trends in products, design and technology.

NKBA Director of Certification and Design Elle H. Millard talking with Monogram Marketing Manager Ed Mammorella

Monogram engaged our attendees with cuisine (not just pizza) made in the Monogram Pizza Oven right there in the booth with the help of Chefs Nick Liberato and Brian Malarkey.

Chef Brian Malarkey

Chef Nick Liberato

Not only did we have acclaimed chefs, but we also had globally renowned fashion designer, Zac Posen, cooking right alongside them and signing copies of his new cookbook, Cooking with Zac.

Attendees were ecstatic to not only meet Zac and get a signed copy of his cookbook, but also to hear about his plans to design a one-of-a-kind panel for our Monogram Column refrigerators. Stay tuned for more exclusive plans between Monogram and Zac Posen in 2018, as well as partnerships with craftsmen that epitomize the quality of our brand.

Renowned fashion designer Zac Posen with Mary Putman, GE Appliances Vice President, Marketing and Brand

In addition to displaying the custom pizza peel made for Monogram by William Campbell of Anvil Goods, we had another artisan’s talents in a prominent, full-wall display that sparked a lot of conversation. The cast-iron pan covered wall was brought to us by Borough Furnace who sustainably handmakes their products out of recycled scrap iron. Partnering with these artisans supports our passion for craftsmanship, devotion to details and our commitment to Elevate Everything.

 

Designer Profile: T. K. Wismer

by  on  in Event, Monogram

If you were impressed by this year’s Monogram booth at KBIS this year, thanks go to T.K. Wismer who designed the space. She honed her expertise in design as a set and wardrobe stylist, breathing life into commercials, television, and photography. T.K’s work has been featured in publications including Southern Living, HGTV magazine, Better Homes and Gardens as well as several television and commercial campaigns.

SRFD: How did you become interested in design?

T.K.: From an early age, I always had a desire to see new designs and to imagine what a space could be. I was the kind of kid that had to go to the bathroom everywhere we went just to see what it looked like, and it was pretty common for me to organize and rearrange my friends’ rooms. Magazines were my ultimate entertainment and I would get lost for hours in the pages of my mom’s Southern Living, Vogue or Architectural Digest. We also moved a lot, every three months or so with the horse industry, and we were constantly setting up a new home and trying to work with what we had to create a comfortable space. All of that exposure to different regions, floorplans, and styles led to my insatiable appetite for creativity and change. I eventually made my way to set and wardrobe design for commercials and television and from there started on residential and commercial interiors.

SRFD: A trend you’re excited about?

T.K.: I am really excited to see darker, moodier tones emerging in kitchen and bath designs. Bright white spaces are classic and versatile for sure but darker tones are more soothing to me and I love the way they change throughout the day and look really dramatic in the evening. I also love the mixing and matching such as two-tone cabinetry and mixed metals for a few reasons, it creates a layered effect that is visually appealing and looks as though things were gathered over time or collected in a way. To me that is what makes a home interesting, a chance to see someone’s personally curated collection. The variations help show-case their unique identity. Mixing and matching is also a more sustainable approach to design. Trends come and go so fast, instead of throwing everything out and starting fresh, I like to integrate some new with the existing elements that might still be in great shape.

SRFD: A trend you are over?

T.K.: I like to think of trends in terms of food, they are cravings and as soon as you satisfy one, something else takes hold. There are picky eaters and picky designers and I consider myself neither, so I hate to even say this because this particular trend has helped so many find a style identity and that is really our goal as designers, to influence others and empower their choices but here goes: I am over the Farmhouse look. It has been such a big theme over the past two years and I can appreciate the charm but I personally do not see myself craving shiplap or corrugated metal, or rustic wood for a while at least. I am also growing weary with white on white spaces unless you have an art collection to rival a Manhattan gallery, they just leave me wanting more. Also, a little trend in accessorizing I have seen creeping around lately on social media and in store displays is books being shelved backward so that the pages show instead of spines. I cannot get on board with this; I can’t suspend my disbelief to the point to imagine a real person who would want to organize their books in this manner. Not to mention, books are some of my favorite décor items for the color and texture they add as you will see in several of the designs I did for the Monogram space at KBIS.

SRFD: Tell us about the Monogram booth at KBIS?

T.K.: For the Monogram booth, I wanted to create a kitchen that has vintage appeal married with modern technology. The look reminds me of a French bistro with the soft blue and green tones in the cabinetry topped with white marbled quartz counters. I wanted the colors to look like patina to communicate old world charm. I chose the brass lanterns and hardware that you would see on an antique icebox as a nod to where we began while the sleek Monogram appliances showcase how far we’ve come in kitchen and appliance design. Again, it goes back to my love of mixing old with new. The mother of pearl wallcovering adds a touch of elegance to the space and has a beautiful texture. The accessories are from Louisville Stoneware in my hometown and represent hand crafted details that are both attractive and highly functional. The look of the kitchen is classic with a simple, approachable elegance. I can imagine rolling out pastry dough or canning fresh vegetables in that space. I wanted it to be beautiful, comfortable, and hard-working.

HOME With The Cousins KBIS Podcast

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It’s KBIS time! If you’re unfamiliar, KBIS is the leading Kitchen and Bath Industry Show and it’s held this week in Orlando, Florida. Owned by the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA), KBIS is an inspiring, interactive platform that showcases the latest product innovations and trends from leading kitchen and bath brands. Each year kitchen and bath designers, dealers, architects, builders, and remodelers from all over the world attend KBIS to not only discover the newest product innovations, but to also take advantage of the education and networking.

In preparation for KBIS, the HOME with The Cousins podcast recently shared a series of interviews with leaders from key companies that will be at KBIS this week. In Episode 25, John Colaneri and Anthony Carrino interviewed Ed Mammorella, marketing manager with Monogram, as well as individuals from Chief Architect and Best Cheer Stone.

Hope to see you in booth W1712 at KBIS this week!