The Reid Murdoch Center that is home to the World of Whirlpool on the beautiful Chicago river.
As consumers, there is just something about new model releases that captures our attention. Whether it’s a side-by-side refrigerator or a smartphone, new product designs embody the latest and greatest the industry has to offer—and often have us pining for ways to incorporate these products into our everyday lives.
Early last week Eileen and I experienced a new model introduction in an up-close and personal way: We were among 18 designers from the U.S. and Canada invited to the Windy City to experience design inspiration and product innovation at the World Of Whirlpool. Here, we attended—and presented at—the Designer’s Forum event focusing on Whirlpool’s luxury brand, Jenn-Air.
Located on the river in downtown Chicago’s historic Reid Murdoch Center, the World of Whirlpool facility is a unique space where industry insiders get to experience the brand in interactive, state-of-the-art environments. Our group spent two incredible days learning firsthand about the new line of Jenn-Air kitchen products with presenters/trainers Jon Barfell (with Jenn-Air) and Ellen Cheever (with Ellen Cheever and Associates).
It was fabulous to not only see how these gorgeous new appliances can be seamlessly incorporated into today’s new kitchen designs, but it was wonderful to experience the practical application, as well, with renowned Chef Ann preparing us amazing meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner using all Jenn-Air appliances.
It was also empowering to share our successes at Dover with our peers: Eileen’s presentation showcased a recent kitchen remodel project, where she shared before and after photos, presented her design challenges, and then explained budget considerations and choices for products and applications.
I presented on the marketing and advertising changes we’ve made this year at Dover, explaining our latest initiatives to connect with our customers—and to also attract new business—through our blogs, video blogs, Facebook presence and social media outreach.
Not only did we have a wonderful time in Chicago, but we learned a lot, too. This experience was another example of the ways in which we continue to educate ourselves about new products and developments, which in turn, we share with our customers to achieve design results that absolutely delight and inspire today, and for years to come.
The best is yet to come,
Beth Orr
