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de Giulio kitchen design | Luxury Kitchens & Portfolios
What does it take to become an icon in kitchen design? For Mick De Giulio, it began in 1984 with a vision to transform the most functional room in the home into a space driven by personality and artistry. For homeowners, designers, and enthusiasts, understanding the philosophy and portfolio of a master like De Giulio is key to appreciating the pinnacle of luxury kitchen design and finding inspiration for their own projects.
De Giulio kitchen design, founded by acclaimed designer Mick De Giulio in 1984, is a world-renowned firm specializing in creating custom, high-functioning, and elegant residential and commercial kitchens. This firm is celebrated for its ability to blend meticulous craftsmanship with a deep understanding of a client’s individual style, resulting in spaces that are both beautiful and profoundly livable.
Leveraging extensive analysis of his four-decade career, numerous publications, and industry awards, this guide unpacks the core principles, iconic projects, and product collaborations that define the de Giulio legacy. We will explore the philosophy that guides every design, showcase the accolades that cement his authority, and provide a look into the services that bring these visionary kitchens to life.
Key Facts
- A Legacy of Influence: Mick De Giulio’s career spans over 40 years, and in 2005, he was recognized by Kitchen and Bath Business magazine as one of the 50 most influential people in the industry’s last 50 years.
- Prestigious Recognition: Highlighting his continued impact, De Giulio was honored as a Design Icon in
2025by Luxe Interiors + Design magazine and Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove.- Award-Winning Product Design: His influence extends to product creation, with his Multiere sink for Kallista being voted “Best of Year” by Interior Design magazine, demonstrating his holistic approach to kitchen functionality.
- Presidential Connection: Cabinetry designed by Mick De Giulio for SieMatic was selected for the kitchen at Washington D.C.’s Blair House, the official presidential guest residence, showcasing his work at the highest levels.
- Core Design Philosophy: De Giulio believes that “kitchens are best driven by personality,” a guiding principle that ensures each project is a unique reflection of the client’s style and needs, not just a functional space.
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De Giulio Kitchen Design: An In-Depth Look at a Luxury Icon
De Giulio kitchen design, founded by acclaimed designer Mick De Giulio in 1984, is a world-renowned firm specializing in creating custom, high-functioning, and elegant residential and commercial kitchens. For over four decades, the firm has been at the forefront of interior architecture, earning global acclaim for its conceptual rethinking of homes and its ability to craft versatile, dynamic, and deeply personal spaces. Mick De Giulio himself is a celebrated American designer, author, and product innovator whose work has left an indelible mark on modern interiors.
At the heart of the firm’s success is Mick De Giulio’s multifaceted expertise. His contributions to the world of design are extensive and varied, cementing his status as a true industry leader.
- Designer: He is the visionary force behind countless distinctive residential kitchens across the United States and internationally.
- Author: He has penned two influential books, Kitchen Centric and KITCHEN, that serve as manifestos on his design philosophy and showcase his portfolio.
- Product Designer: He has collaborated with premier brands like Kallista, SieMatic, and Sub-Zero/Wolf to create award-winning products that are now staples in luxury kitchens.
This combination of creative vision, written authority, and tangible product innovation is what establishes the de Giulio brand as an unparalleled icon in the world of luxury design.
The Guiding Philosophy: What Defines a De Giulio Kitchen?
A de Giulio kitchen is defined by a philosophy that blends refinement with high functionality, creating versatile, kitchen-centric spaces that are precisely engineered and driven by the client’s unique personality. It’s an approach that goes far beyond selecting cabinets and countertops; it’s about crafting an environment that is as comfortable and livable as it is elegant. Mick De Giulio’s vision is built on several core tenets that distinguish his work.
The central idea is that the kitchen should be a true reflection of its owner. De Giulio articulates this best himself:
“Kitchens are best driven by personality.”
This statement, featured in publications like Pursuitist, underscores his commitment to embracing every layer of a client’s individual style. The result is not a “signature look” but rather a portfolio of diverse projects, each uniquely tailored. This philosophy is underpinned by a mastery of key design principles:
- Refinement: Every detail, material, and finish is selected to create a sophisticated and cohesive aesthetic.
- Functionality: De Giulio kitchens are high-functioning spaces designed for modern, kitchen-centric living, with clever storage solutions and intuitive layouts.
- Versatility: He excels at building versatility into his designs, creating dynamic spaces that can adapt to different needs, from daily family meals to formal entertaining.
Crucially, this artistic vision is supported by an unwavering commitment to technical excellence. As he noted in Cottages & Gardens, the kitchen is the hardest room to design because there is absolutely…
“no fudging on the dimensions and tolerances.”
Pro Tip: De Giulio’s focus on precision reminds us that in luxury design, every millimeter counts. It’s the difference between a good kitchen and an extraordinary one. This meticulous attention to detail ensures that every element fits and functions perfectly, which is the invisible foundation of true luxury.
A Legacy of Excellence: Awards, Recognition, and Publications
The authority and expertise of Mick De Giulio and his firm are validated by a long and distinguished history of industry awards, accolades, and features in the world’s most prestigious design publications. This extensive recognition from peers and media alike demonstrates a consistent legacy of excellence and innovation spanning decades.
Quick Fact: De Giulio’s influence was recognized as early as 2005, when he was named one of the 50 most influential people in the industry’s last 50 years.
Below is a summary of some of the most significant honors bestowed upon him, showcasing his lifetime contribution to design.
| Award/Recognition | Awarding Body | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Design Icon | Luxe Interiors + Design / Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove | 2025 |
| Lifetime Achievement Award | Merchandise Mart Hall of Fame | 2016 |
| 50 Most Influential People | Kitchen and Bath Business Magazine | 2005 |
| Kitchen and Bath Design Leader | Interior Design Magazine | 2003 |
In addition to these formal awards, de Giulio’s work is a constant feature in top-tier international magazines. His projects are regularly sought out by editors to showcase the very best in kitchen and home design. His portfolio has graced the pages of:
- Architectural Digest
- House Beautiful
- Traditional Home
- Forbes
- Robb Report
- Elle Decor
- Architektur & Wohnen
- Ottagano
- Interior Design
This consistent presence in authoritative publications solidifies his position as a leading voice and a go-to source for inspirational, high-end design.
Key Accolades Through the Years
To fully appreciate the depth of his impact, it’s helpful to look at his major career milestones chronologically. Key takeaways include his 2003 recognition as a Design Leader, 2005 naming as one of the industry’s 50 most influential people, and his 2016 induction into the Merchandise Mart Hall of Fame.
- 2003: Named a Kitchen and Bath Design Leader by Interior Design magazine, an early recognition of his visionary work.
- 2005: Honored by Kitchen and Bath Business magazine as one of the 50 most influential figures in the industry over the preceding 50 years, a testament to his transformative impact.
- 2016: Inducted into the Merchandise Mart Hall of Fame with the Lifetime Achievement Award, a crowning recognition of his enduring contributions to interior design.
2025: Recognized as a Design Icon by Luxe Interiors + Design magazine and Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove, saluting him as one of the preeminent creators behind iconic kitchen design today.
Beyond the Kitchen: Product Design & Iconic Collaborations
Mick De Giulio has extended his design influence through iconic product collaborations, including award-winning sinks and faucets for Kallista, cabinetry for SieMatic (used in Blair House), and extensive work with Sub-Zero/Wolf/Cove. This expansion into product design demonstrates a holistic understanding of the kitchen ecosystem, where every component contributes to the overall function and beauty of the space.
His collaborations are with some of the most respected names in the industry, resulting in products that embody his design philosophy.
- Kallista (a Kohler company)
- Mick De Giulio Kitchen Sink Collection: This collection features the highly acclaimed Multiere sink, which was voted “Best of Year” by Interior Design magazine. It’s a testament to his ability to innovate within a familiar form.
- Mixed-metals Faucet: He also designed a faucet with new water spray technology that received its own “Best of Year” award, showcasing his attention to both aesthetics and performance.
- SieMatic Gmbh
- Custom Cabinetry: De Giulio has designed cabinetry for the renowned German manufacturer. Notably, these products were selected in 2002 for the kitchen at Washington D.C.’s Blair House, the U.S. presidential guest residence.
- Sub-Zero/Wolf/Cove
- Ongoing Collaboration: He has a long-standing relationship with the premier appliance manufacturer, designing numerous training and demonstration kitchens that showcase their products in ideal settings.
- Other Major Collaborations
- Abt Electronics: He designed the 11,000-square-foot Inspiration Studio retail showroom, a massive commercial project.
- Tech Lighting: De Giulio has also lent his design expertise to the world of lighting.
- Meredith Corporation: He has designed research and demonstration kitchens for publications like Better Homes & Gardens.
Consider the impact: De Giulio doesn’t just design the space; he designs the award-winning tools you use within it. This deep integration of form and function across products and interiors is a hallmark of his comprehensive approach.
The Designer’s Manifesto: Exploring Mick De Giulio’s Books
For those who wish to dive deeper into the mind of the designer, Mick De Giulio has authored two critically acclaimed books. These publications are more than just portfolios; they are manifestos that articulate his design philosophy, showcase his process, and offer endless inspiration. They provide an invaluable resource for understanding the principles that have guided his celebrated career.
Kitchen Centric (2010)
This book is described as both a manifesto and a career retrospective, illustrating an achievable ideal in kitchen design. Published by Balcony Press, Kitchen Centric was De Giulio’s first major work and established his voice as an author and design philosopher. It was praised for making high-end design feel both aspirational and attainable.
Chicago Home + Garden captured its essence perfectly:
“part manifesto, part career retrospective, 100% inspiring.”
The Chicago Tribune further noted that the book “perfectly illustrates an achievable ideal that is based in reality as much as it is in dreams,” highlighting its practical yet visionary appeal.
KITCHEN (2015)
His second book, KITCHEN, showcases a portfolio of his latest work, focusing on the signature elements and finishes of his luxurious interiors. Published by Pointed Leaf Press, this volume presents an evolution of his style, featuring a stunning collection of recent projects that extend beyond the kitchen into other areas of the home.
The book was lauded by Architectural Digest for its display of De Giulio’s mastery:
“showcase De Giulio’s expert ability to wed refinement and functionality.”
KITCHEN serves as a visual feast of his sophisticated use of materials, clever storage solutions, and elegant, high-functioning spaces that cater to modern, kitchen-centric living.
The Firm: Services and Studio Locations
De Giulio kitchen design offers comprehensive services from concept to completion, including cabinetry and appliance installation. The firm has studios in Wilmette, IL, and Birmingham, MI. For clients seeking to bring the de Giulio vision into their homes, the firm provides a full-service experience, managing every detail from the initial idea to the final installation.
Ready to start the conversation? Here is how to connect with the de Giulio design team. The firm’s capabilities cover all aspects of a project, ensuring a seamless and cohesive result. Services include:
- Design: Full interior architecture services for kitchens and all other areas of the home, spanning contemporary, traditional, and transitional styles.
- Provision: Sourcing and supplying all necessary components for the project.
- Installation: Expert installation of cabinetry, appliances, and countertops, ensuring the precision envisioned in the design is perfectly executed.
The firm’s showrooms are designed as inspiration hubs, featuring fully functional displays with live appliances and plumbing fixtures, allowing clients to experience the quality and innovation firsthand.
Wilmette Office
1121 Central Avenue, Wilmette, IL 60091, USA
Phone: 847-256-8833 / 312-494-9200
Email: info@degiuliodesign.com
Birmingham Studio
34222 Woodward Ave, Birmingham, MI 48009, USA
Phone: 248-258-6880
Email: degiulio@degiulio.com
Hours: Monday-Friday 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM, Saturday 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
The firm also maintains a studio presence in the prestigious LuxeHome in Chicago’s Merchandise Mart.
To perfectly complement a space designed with such artistry, consider exploring these curated luxury kitchen accessories.
Last update on 2025-07-24 at 16:21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
FAQs About de giulio kitchen design
This section answers some of the most common questions about Mick De Giulio and his firm, providing clear, fact-based information to help you understand his work and legacy.
What is Mick De Giulio most famous for?
Mick De Giulio is famous for his significant impact on kitchen interiors, his design philosophy that blends elegance with high function, and his influential product designs for brands like Kallista and SieMatic. He is widely recognized for elevating the kitchen from a purely utilitarian room to the functional and emotional center of the home. His holistic approach as a designer, author, and product innovator has made him one of the most respected figures in the industry.
Can I see photos of de Giulio kitchen designs?
Yes, photos of de Giulio’s work are extensively featured in his books (Kitchen Centric and KITCHEN), on the firm’s official website, and in leading design publications like Architectural Digest and Traditional Home. His books offer curated, in-depth visual tours of his projects, while his website and features in magazines provide a continuous stream of new and classic designs for inspiration. Social media platforms like Pinterest also have many boards dedicated to his work.
Does de Giulio design more than just kitchens?
Yes, while known for kitchens, the firm designs for all areas of the home and has completed significant commercial projects, including showrooms and demonstration kitchens for major brands. His portfolio includes designs for entire residences as well as large-scale commercial spaces like the 11,000-square-foot Abt Electronics showroom and training kitchens for Sub-Zero/Wolf, demonstrating the versatility and scalability of his design expertise.
Where are the de Giulio kitchen design studios located?
The main de Giulio kitchen design studios are located at 1121 Central Avenue, Wilmette, IL, and 34222 Woodward Ave, Birmingham, MI. They also have a studio in LuxeHome in Chicago’s Merchandise Mart. These physical showrooms serve as the primary points of contact for clients and feature functional displays that showcase the quality of the firm’s work and its product collaborations.
What specific products has Mick De Giulio designed?
Mick De Giulio has designed several acclaimed products, including the Mick De Giulio Kitchen Sink Collection for Kallista (featuring the award-winning Multiere sink), cabinetry for SieMatic, and lighting for Tech Lighting. His product designs are known for their innovative functionality and refined aesthetics, such as his mixed-metals faucet for Kallista which introduced new water spray technology and also won a “Best of Year” award.
Final Summary: The Enduring Legacy of de Giulio Kitchen Design
From his foundational philosophy that kitchens should be driven by personality to his extensive portfolio of award-winning projects and products, Mick De Giulio has fundamentally shaped the world of luxury kitchen design. For over 40 years, his firm has been synonymous with a level of artistry, precision, and client-focused creativity that sets the industry standard. His work serves as a powerful reminder that a kitchen can be more than just a room—it can be the heart of the home, a masterpiece of function, and a true reflection of those who live in it.
The enduring legacy of de giulio kitchen design is built on a few unshakeable pillars:
- A Visionary Founder: Mick De Giulio’s roles as a designer, author, and product innovator create a holistic and authoritative brand.
- A Core Philosophy: The belief in personality-driven design ensures every project is unique, personal, and timeless.
- An Award-Winning Portfolio: Decades of accolades and features in top publications provide undeniable proof of excellence and influence.
- Tangible Innovation: Award-winning product designs for leading brands like Kallista and SieMatic bring his philosophy to life in tangible, functional forms.
Inspired by the world of de Giulio? Explore the portfolio and discover how a kitchen can be driven by personality.
