Totally disagree with this. I've worked with plenty of fantastic programmers who are basically worthless without the guidance of a good lead/producer/designer.
That gui seems fine to me. It's ugly as sin, sure, but it has everything easy to find and clearly labeled. Ignore the parts you aren't using and you're good to go.
I love this GUI. Gives a clear view of what can be changed, and so much more user friendly than having to remember where each of the nested (often so many times!!) options goes. "Advanced..." buttons everywhere are the worst, and don't get me started about wizards.
A programmer is not a designer. Both are completely different fields. What you are saying is that a shark(programmer) cannot fly like an eagle(designer). But it sure can swim. And vice-a-verse.
Hmmm, no, to mimic the analogy I am saying that just because something has teeth doesn't mean it can bite like a shark. Just because something has wings doesn't mean it can fly like an eagle. A budgie with a jetpack, however, can probably fly better than an eagle. Or something.