First Ever Luxe & Learn at the Merchandise Mart

presented by Porcelanosa, Luxe Magazine and AIA Chicago

Architects, designers, and guests were invited to this event to gain valuable insight while networking with other members of the design and build industry for the Luxe Magazine and Porcelanosa AIA Chicago accredited seminar entitled, "Defining Luxury in the New Marketplace"

(left to right) Andy Rees, Irene Duarte, Kate Flaherty, Lola Kladder, Steve Kladder, Lisa Fraiberg

Porcelanosa welcomed wonderful panelists, such as: Kara Mann - Interior Designer for Kara Mann Design, David Grout - Interior Designer for Gary Lee Partners, Obi Nwazota - Architect / Co-Owner of Orange Skin, Graunk Enzenberger - Interior Designer / Co-Owner for Orange Skin and finally the moderator Zurich Esposito - Executive VP for AIA Chicago.

(left to right) Zurich Esposito, David Grout, Kara Mann, Obi Nwazota, Graunk Enzenberger

Guests were treated to lunch while panelists discussed current trends developed in the architecture and design community over the past two years. Attendees learned of strategies for communicating with clients and increased understanding of client goals, which have shifted in recent years.

The question and answer portion of the luncheon discussed the selection and sourcing of materials, finishes, the development of new alternative finishes, and recent products and services. Guests were interested in how to best remain relevant in the design market, while accomplishing client goals within the confines of shrinking project budgets.