I was born in East Los Angeles, my multicultural experience of being raised in a predominantly Latino and Asian community have shaped my aesthetic influences.
Throughout my life, I assisted my father in raising and pruning Bonsai. This hobby gave me a deep appreciation for shape, texture and clean lines. My strong connection to my Mexican heritage has given me a love of rich vibrant colors and rhythm which influence my designs in the home and garden.
Before breaking ground as a designer on "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition," I had been an keyboardist and percussionist. I was lucky enough to be scouted and selected to perform with the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra at the age of ten. But my passion for the arts extends beyond playing music. While studying theater arts at UCLA, I produced several musical theater and comedy revues that toured throughout the U.S. Shortly thereafter, I headed south to Latin America, where I worked in music, television and videos. I starred in several worldwide-syndicated telenovelas (soap operas), including "Sentimientos Ajenos," "La jaula de oro," and "Acapulco, Cuerpo y Alma."
During my time in México, I also found time to produce music and videos. My production company, XOL Co., based in S.F. worked with music producer Benny Rietveld, of Carlos Santana fame and Mexican superstars Luis Miguel and Pilar Montenegro. My partnership with BMG Latin produced my first solo album, "La Pasión," for which I was nominated for PREMIO LO NUESTRO'S Artist of the Year Award, alongside Gloria Estefan and Ricky Martin. My representation of the United States at the International Music Festival at Viña del Mar, Chile brought my appeal to a worldwide audience. Soon, ELLE, Harper's BAZAAR and SOMOS magazines featured me as one of Latin America's most eligible bachelors.
Over the last few years, I've transferred my experience in musical composition and television production into the world of design. My philosophy is as follows: "Whether it be in a concert or in a flower garden or a Great Room, the importance of harmony in composition is universal." As a co-star of ABC's hit TV show "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition," my compositions are on display for 20 million people a week to view. In addition to the monthly column that I authored in People en Español, I was also named one of their 50 Most Beautiful People. I've made regular appearances on Good Morning America and was also voted one of the 100 Most Influential Hispanics in America, by HISPANIC BUSINESS MAGAZINE. I have thankfully become a respected voice in the Hispanic and mainstream markets.
Harper Collins imprint, RAYO published my first book that was released on April 24, 2007. The book titled "HOME SENSE" was printed in English and Spanish worldwide and most recently was named the BEST SELF HELP BOOK at the 2008 International Latino Book Awards.
Partnering with Festividades!, I launched a line of stationery for the Quinceañera market in May of 2007.
I'm also hoping to return to music. My latest work, a second book, to be published by the Penguin Group in October 2008, titled "Extreme Entertaining Made Simple" will focus on entertaining for the senses and will be one of the few lifestyle entertainment titles to include a CD of originally composed and licensed music, befitting various events.
Hey thanx so much for adding me, i love extreme home makeover, me and my whole family watch it every sunday...my husband and i both sit and cry, such a great thing you guys do!!
As your special day is fast approaching..I just wanted to wish you a wonderous and blessed Valentines and wonderful upcoming birthday..Appreciation of another friend..celebrating his special day ....be bless always..
Eduardo, Let me be the first to wish you a Happy Birthday! If you want I could buy you a birthday Drink if you want to hock up when your in Tallahasee. Your Friend Rico
