Gorenje: High style in the kitchen
PHILIPPINE traditional homes were designed with the living room as the highlight — the kitchen area was always in the background or totally hidden away from the prying eyes of the visitors.
Today — whether they have a house or a condominium — people like to showcase their kitchen area as well, thanks to the appliances available in the market that reconcile function and beauty.
“People like open kitchens nowadays because they take pride in their home appliances,” said Adrien Mousset, senior sales manager at Gorenje AEC.
Gorenje, a 65-year-old European kitchen appliance brand, opened its first showroom in the Philippines in Makati City on Nov. 28. Gorenje — whose origins and name come from a small village in Slovenia — has branched out from Europe to Asia and is now available in China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Thailand, Singapore, and Indonesia.
The appliances at the showroom in Makati City are not only functional (of course), but also pretty, which add flair to any home design.
Gorenje collaborated with world renowned artists including Ora Ito and Philippe Starck, who have come up with sleek, simple, and modern products ranging from dishwashers to refrigerators and ovens.
Mr. Ito, who was appointed Chevalier des Arts et des Lettres in 2011, was included in Wallpaper magazine’s top 40 most influential designers under 40 years old. The Frenchman calls his style “simplexity” as in simple and complex at the same time. International brands Apple, Louis Vuitton, Levi’s, and Swatch have recognized and praised his minimalist philosophy. Mr. Ito’s collection for Gorenje comes in black with a touch of silver.
Philippe Starck’s collection is also simple and classic, but its color palette is silver and utilizes glass. Mr. Starck is the designer behind a multitude of global appliances, restaurants, and buildings. He is the first Frenchman to be invited to the popular TED (Technology, Education, and Design) talks alongside Richard Branson and Bill Clinton.
Gorenje products are energy savers and are designed for everyday convenience.
Gorenje is offering a 30% discount on all appliances until Dec. 31. Its showroom is at 165 Legazpi St., Legazpi Village, Makati City. — Nickky Faustine P. de Guzman
