Insider's View: Design on a Dime

As a blogger, one of the most frustrating aspects of being so keyed into the design scene across the country is the fact that there isn't enough time or money to attend all the amazing events that take place. Even though New England isn't far from New York City, it's still not that easy to pop down for an afternoon or evening event and so for many things, I must live vicariously through the eyes of others.  The "Design on a Dime" event was recently in NYC. Put on by Housing Works, which provide services for homeless and low-income New Yorker's living with HIV/AIDS, this is a three day event to raise funds for their mission. Having lost a very dear friend to AIDS twenty-one years ago, this is a cause close to my heart. The highlight of this 3-day event were the 55 room vignettes created by a stellar roster of designers and celebrities. Much of the merchandise showcased in the vignettes is donated and then sold off to raise funds. Having fun while doing good work is a win win for all.

This was an event that I would have loved to attend, but unfortunately wasn't able to get there.  I was thrilled when participating designer Patrick J. Hamilton offered to share these beautiful photographs, by Jody Kivort, of his eclectic vignette. He says of his space:

The challenge here was getting a lot of sell-able products into a small footprint, but still have it feel realistic as a stylish room, and reflect me as a designer... layers of light, a mix of eras and high/low sources... Plus, I was able to flex my color muscle, since this event calls for a bit of theatricality! The generosity of the vendors was humbling and inspiring. So many people said yes, immediately and unconditionally. The challenge after that was to get it all looking like a designed and polished room... not just a trade show booth!

As Patrick stated, the generosity of vendors who donated goods for these vignettes is always inspiring and he wanted to particularly acknowledge Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams, Wisteria, Currey & Company, NIBA Rugs and the Alpha Workshops for their participation.

A few bonus images provided by Larry Ruhl of High Falls Mercantile featuring their vintage inspired vignette. (images courtesy of High Falls Mercantile)

Love the vintage plates and wallpaper covered walls.

You can read more on High Falls Mercantile's blog about their vignette and get links to further coverage and here is Patrick's blog post about how he pulled his space together. Lots of work for a great cause!

Thanks Patrick and Larry for sharing!

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