Though he graduated from California College of the Arts with a degree in wood/furniture, Orfeo Quagliata initially spent four years as an industrial design major. "I liked ID but got sick of the little tiny plastic parts," he says. "I wanted to get my hands on bigger materials."

Changing majors was not out of character for Quagliata; in fact, he chose CCA because of its diversity of programs. "I didn't want to specialize in any one thing. I wanted to learn as much about every possible material as I could. I took classes in ceramics, paint, photo, glass, every single class I could. It took longer than I thought [it would] to get out, but now I can design anything."

Quagliata became a successful designer while still in school, selling his glass and jewelry designs to private collectors and studying with furniture designer and architect Chris Deam.

By the time he graduated with high distinction, crystal company Nouvel Studio had taken notice. With their encouragement, Quagliata moved to Mexico City in 2000 and founded Phuze, a glasswork collaboration with Nouvel Studio. Phuze's designs include glass jewelry, flatware, vessels, furniture, lighting, and sculpture.

In the factory by 5:00 a.m., Quagliata spends his days developing prototypes, contacting clients, and meeting with architects. Nights are spent drawing and reading contracts. "Designing is only 5 percent of my time in the real world," he says. Quagliata hopes current students remember to enjoy their time in school, bend the rules, and design what they want before they have to go out in the real world.

His newest projects include a jewelry line and the design of a restaurant in Mexico City. Phuze was recently featured in Metropolitan Home's 2004 "Design 100" issue, and the products can be found at stores such as the SFMOMA Museum Store, Neiman Marcus, and the Bon Marché. Says Quagliata, "The recognition doesn't hurt."

From Glance, 2005

Born 1972, San Francisco

CCA degree:
BFA 1999, Wood/Furniture

Other education:
Cabrillo College, College of Marin

Residence:
Mexico City

Current occupation:
Industrial designer; founder, Phuze

Influences at CCA:
Chris Deam, Thom Faulders, Barry Katz, Martin Linder

Website:
phuzedesign.com