We had the good fortune of connecting with Maria Hughes and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Maria, is there something you can share with us that those outside of the industry might not be aware of?
The misconception that that Pacific Design Center showrooms are not open to the general public. Our showrooms are open to the public, and everyone is invited to experience our exquisitely curated showrooms. We warmly welcome consumers to explore and browse our showrooms. We have an insider consulting & buying program which provides the end-user not presently working with a designer the opportunity to purchase a limited number of items at to the-trade only prices. This service extends a coveted privilege to select from the variety of textiles and furnishings available only at the PDC. The Referral Program is a complimentary service that helps individuals to locate an interior designer who best suit their taste, project scope, and budget.

What should our readers know about your business?
I’d love the world to know how magical the Pacific Design Center is. Besides being home to more than 80 interior design showrooms, we host some really special events at the PDC, like the Versace fashion show a few months ago. When you have a moment, check out the jaw-dropping drone footage. to be within feet of Cher, Elton John, Naomi Campbell, and Donatella – it’s safe to say my life is complete! We also host large scale events for the Oscars, Emmys and Grammys and have a movie theater in Green called the SilverScreen, where major movie screenings/premiers take place every week.

Aside from major events, we have some incredible tech/media/film tenants in the red and green buildings like A24 Films and MGM. We also house the PDC Design Gallery in the Plaza which is devoted to art and design, engaging internationally renowned artists, celebrated designers, noted curators, professional design organizations and leading academic institutions to draw upon the collective intelligence and creativity of California’s vast design culture. On view at the Gallery beginning September 27 is an installation by talented artist Agostino Iacurci.

I often describe the PDC as a beacon of creativity nestled in the vibrant heart of West Hollywood. The experience of being surrounded by the dynamic energy of the Pacific Design Center every day is truly invigorating, and the opportunity to contribute to such a thriving hub of artistic expression is a privilege I hold in high regard.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Did you say Weho day-trip?! where to begin? Start with breakfast at The Butcher’s Daughter on Melrose — they serve up the most delicious craft matchas and carrot lox (trust me). Then Yoga at Runyon Canyon: it’s a tourist trap for a reason. There are breathtaking views of the city, plus it’s a great way to connect with nature. grab a mid-morning iced vanilla latte at Community Goods or Alfred followed by lunch at Zinc Cafe, who, in my humble opinion, has the best avocado toast in town (don’t @ me!). Explore the eclectic shops and boutiques along Melrose Avenue with everything from vintage clothing stores to unique art galleries, and the people watching is out of this world. Don’t forget to visit the PDC to cool off and peruse our gorgeous showrooms. speaking of people watching, Rhianna and J-Lo were in last week shopping our showrooms with their designer, and the lucky guy who recently won billions in the lotto popped in last month to buy a luxury game table from one of our coolest showrooms, 11 Ravens. After all the shopping, it’s time for a spritz. Grab a glass of bubbles or two on the rooftop at the EDITION before heading to dinner at celeb hotspots: Great White, Craig’s or Bottega Louie. If you’re exhausted from the day and want to book a room, I recommend the Montrose or LeParc, two stylish boutique hotels where you can take in stunning views of the LA skyline as you kiss the hills goodnight.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
the support from our Director of Design, Cory Pernicano, and SVP, Spero Plavoukos, has been invaluable. Having spent almost a decade as the Marketing Manager at the San Francisco Design Center, I was apprehensive about not knowing a ton of the LA design community. However, they graciously took me under their wing and introduced me to a wonderful network of designers and architects. Their thoughtful guidance and connections have allowed me to better understand all that our beautiful showrooms have to offer, and I am truly grateful for their support and mentorship.

Website: pacificdesigncenter.com

Instagram: pacificdesigncenter

Image Credits
Photo of Maria: LKR Photo Furniture pictures: Baker Showroom

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