Prior to starting his design business in in 2004, Mark Hermogeno honed his eye as a visual merchandiser for retailers like Restoration Hardware and Smith & Hawken. While growing up in South Pasadena, Hermogeno toured the Showcase House and since then has always wanted to design a room. This year, his dream finally came true. “What drove me to participate this time is that last year I had a back injury, which left me temporarily unable to walk. I had an emergency spinal fusion and was in the hospital for eight days. While in the hospital, I also experienced a cardiac event. The last year has been hard and, at times, really trying. Showcase House came at the right time to get me out of a funk I fell in to during recovery,” says Hermogeno, who designed the Young Gentleman’s Quarters—or what Hermogeno unofficially dubbed the “Young Gentleman’s Quarantine Quarters.” The space includes a bedroom, walk-in closet, and bathroom—all designed with locking down in mind. “My style is very ‘Cali,’ which is laidback with a bit of glam edge to it. My rooms are designed for living where nothing is too precious. I love color blocking as well as monochromatic contemporary and eclectic settings,” says the designer. Here, he shares his local go-tos for tiles and design inspiration.
I reside in Eagle Rock, where my partner and I have lived for the last 10 years. The revitalization of the area has brought new restaurants to the area, which was much needed.
My favorite neighborhoods in the Pasadena are Bungalow Heaven and Millionaire’s Row because I love the history of both. / I like to visit the Colorado Street Bridge, Court of Appeals, City Hall, and homes along the Rose Bowl to find design inspiration. / I am a foodie so eating and drinking out are at the top of the list, followed by shopping. Chim Thai restaurant’s beef jerky is so good! / I love the lychee martini from Sushi Roku. / I like to shop at Saxum Tile Design Studio and Foothill Tile & Stone because of the great customer service and the unique tile and stone I find. Cozy Stylish Chic has a vast vendor selection that saves me time from having to venture into West Hollywood. De-cor has wonderful global finds, from tables to lighting, and Maude Woods has a great selection of unique vintage furnishings. I love Design Within Reach to find just the right modern pieces. / My favorite local places to shop for antiques are the Pasadena Antique Center and Annex, Pasadena Antique Mall, and Voorhees Craftsman. / The best item I purchased at the Rose Bowl Flea Market was a leather jacket (that then got stolen!).
