Resource Spotlight: Acero Bella

1. How did you get started in this business?

I started in this business as a data entry clerk when I was going to college. The temporary part-time job became a life long career in an industry I love.

2. What questions do you ask before you begin a project?

When I start a project, I like to know who it's for. How many people live in the home, how old are they, how they live, etc. A family of athletes may be interested in a steam unit or therapeutic bath tub. A family with children may want a steam oven for reheating leftovers quickly. It's my job to make sure my clients know of the products that will make their house a home.

3. What is the most important information that you need?

We prefer starting a new project with the floor plans. Things get lost in translation due to industry jargon, so it's nice to know what exactly is required when making selections.

4. How would you describe your design approach?

My design approach is to take the lead from the client and designer when possible. It’s fun to layer in the plumbing and hardware components to the overall design. We strive to stay educated on new trends and the products that support them. Providing options that personalize a space is the fun part of what we do!

5. Who are some of your favorite lines/brands/designers/vendors?

Thermador: Innovative, reliable and SERIOUSLY, who can live without a built-in coffee maker and steam oven?!

California Faucets: The BEST new kitchen faucets on the market and available in several “brass” color options!

Native Trails: The NativeStone concrete sinks and tubs are AWESOME! They have a new metal sealer that keeps polished nickel and polished copper sinks bright and shiny for a YEAR!

Tracy Design Studio: I love working with Maria. She is a trendsetter in the industry. She has a true talent for blending old and new and traditional and contemporary. The end results are extremely beautiful and comfortable.

6. How do you stay on top of current design trends?

I follow social media and attend industry trade shows to stay current on design trends. Pinterest is my favorite, but Instagram and Houzz keep me educated on local and national trends. Trade shows like K/BIS and ICFF shed light on options on the horizon.

7. What is the piece in your home that you can’t live without?

I hope I never have to live without a steam oven and a bidet toilet with a heated seat.

8. What do you think will be the next “big thing” for the industry?

Our industry is rapidly evolving and electronic control of all components in the home is fascinating. One day my cell phone will turn on my steam oven, my steam shower and my bidet toilet! I hope someone is working on electronically controlled TRUE “self-clean” products.

9. What advice do you have for someone who is looking for fixtures?

Every project has a budget and we are very mindful of this at Acero Bella but don’t skimp on things that require hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars to correct down the road. For example, a poor quality shower faucet requires a minor remodel to correct and plumbers charge a fortune to just show up at your door. Talk to an expert to insure you are making the best long-term purchase.