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As the host of iDesign and the President of Maurice Villency Inc., Manhattan's legendary contemporary furniture brand, Eric Villency knows design. Growing up, he was surrounded by the family business founded by and named after his grandfather Maurice, a furniture craftsman strongly influenced by the modern movement and European quality.

After studying business at the University of Wisconsin, he began a career in modeling, which brought him into contact with some of the world's top fashion designers. In 1997, he began working as a consultant for the family business, lending his eye for design, color and image to Maurice Villency advertising campaigns. In 1999, Eric officially joined the company. After learning the business from the ground up, he quickly established himself as both a team player and leader.

As President, Eric oversaw the 2002 launch of the dramatic Maurice Villency flagship store, located on 57^th Street in midtown Manhattan. During this time he also launched the company's first Home Accessories collection. In 2003, Eric opened Maurice Villency's latest production facility in Italy.

Today, Eric enjoys learning about and supporting new designers in many different industries, especially fashion and architecture. Although no longer a model, he continues to have a deep connection to the fashion world. Under his leadership, Maurice Villency has established partnerships with cutting-edge emerging fashion designers including Proenza Schouler, Derek Lam, Imitation of Christ, and Alice Roi.

Now: Explore the world of functional design and check out five videos of smart, cutting edge products! (Diamonds, golf clubs, snowmobiles and more...)