2020 Customer Spotlight
Millie Rocha-Jaje, winner of the 2020 Inspiration Awards in the Kitchen category, graduated from the interior decorating program at Algonquin College in Ottawa, Ontario in 2017. Thanks to the kitchen and bath design course she took, Millie knew she wanted to work in this industry. “After I graduated from the interior decorating program,” explains Millie, “I went straight into the kitchen and bath design program that was sponsored by the NKBA.”
Millie is now a member of the NKBA and will soon be writing her AKBD. She moved from Ottawa, ON to Naples, FL after she graduated to be with family and for a job opportunity. “My biggest achievement so far is being able to get a full-time job after graduation thanks to my internship,” says Millie. She also won her first contest since graduating; she won the 2020 Design award for best kitchen design. “Some challenges I'm still facing at this time is that some people I have to interact with and work with do not take me seriously because of my young age,” says Millie.
Question & Answer Session
When did you start using 2020 Design and what were some of your reasons for choosing that software?
I started using 2020 Design in college. We had a full semester on how to use the program. From then on, we had to use the program for our projects. All my professors were in the industry and they would say it’s an industry standard to know 2020 Design these days.
What are some of the most helpful features you use in 2020 Design and why?
Some of the most helpful features in 2020 Design include the creation of elevations and 3D renderings. Using 2020 Design saves a lot of time vs. designing in AutoCAD or other programs. Another great tool is the drag and drop catalogs from the cabinet manufactures we work with; this makes the process of pricing out cabinets incredibly easy.
About the Designer
Millie Rocha-Jaje
Cutting Edge Construction & Woodworks Inc.
Favorite design style:
Contemporary
Favorite paint color:
Hudson Bay
by Benjamin Moore
Favorite designer:
Frank Lloyd Wright and Antoni Gaudi
Quote that inspires you:
"A dream doesn't become reality through magic; it takes sweat, determination and hard work." - Colin Powell
What has been your experience working with 2020?
My experience with 2020 has been great so far. Like I had mentioned, I had professors who taught us how to use the program, however there are many features the program offers. The 2020 website is extremely useful with the training videos it offers. It is a great way for me to stay up to date with all the features 2020 Design offers, and a great way to refresh any areas that I may need a little reminder on.
What was the inspiration behind the design you submitted for the 2020 contest?
My client wanted a modern yet functional kitchen design. My client needed lots of storage since they were downsizing. The design includes a simple, modern line yet is warm and welcoming with the use of wood base cabinets.
Describe your creative process. What questions do you ask your clients? Where do you get your inspirations from?
There are many questions that I ask my clients when designing a space for them. The questions vary based on what type of project I am creating. Storage is an important and common topic I discuss with my clients when designing their kitchens. "Do you have enough storage now? How do you store your equipment? What do you need from your kitchen space?" It sometimes does get a little personal when designing a kitchen or bathroom for a client. It is crucial that you have a clear understanding of what and how your client will be using the space. This will ensure that the space I create will be functional for all their specific and unique needs.
Do you design spaces other than kitchens, bathrooms? If so, which ones?
I don’t only design kitchens and bathrooms. I have designed media rooms, family rooms, and laundry rooms. I have even designed an entire condo. In fact, the kitchen that won the 2020 Design award is from a full condo project I designed that is still under construction.
Do you use any 2020 Cloud decorative items?
Yes, I have used many different ones. This feature is great because it makes the space come to life once you start adding furniture/decorative items. This is important because it provides the client with a better idea of what their space could look like.
What are some of your favorite catalogs to use in your design projects?
Some of my favorite catalogs to use are Kohler, GE appliances, the cabinet companies we work with, JennAir, 2020 Cloud decorative items, and ZLINE.
What guidance would you provide to any designer who is considering 3D CAD tools for interior design?
Working with programs like 2020 Design is a necessity and it’s an industry standard now. Technology is evolving so much these days and companies have created these amazing tools to make designing an interior easier and faster. The 3D feature is a must-have and it’s a great wow factor for clients.
Tell us something unusual that has happened in your career.
Before graduating I had an internship in Naples, FL. After the internship was completed, they offered me a full-time position. Within 5 months of me working with them, I won the 2020 Design Inspiration Awards. Now I'm going to be featured in KBB magazine and on the 2020 website. It is amazing what I was able to accomplish so quickly after just graduating. This has been a great journey so far, and I cannot wait to see what else I am able to accomplish.
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