The 7th annual Design On a Dime Event  kicked off last night at the Metropolitan Pavillion and thanks to Valspar and One Kings Lane (2 of many sponsors), I was able to attend the VIP cocktail hour.  Each vignette (54 total) was filled with items that were donated by retailers and designers who generously make this event a success by raising money for Housing Works who helps homeless and low income New Yorkers living with HIV/AIDS.  I know the event was SOLD OUT (over 1600 guests) and the line was a block long at one point, so let’s hope it was a record breaking year!

The crowd certainly did not seem shy last night, in fact, as I was walking out/cashing out on the items I picked up I noticed a gentlemen (dressed to the nines in a fancy suit) doing the running man in front of the DJ booth.  The drinks were flowing and DJ Jazzy Jeff made sure to spin the right tunes.  Nothing wrong with a little alcohol and dance music to get people in the mood to buy!  Don’t get fancy just get dancy..

So among all 54 vignettes I captured a few of my favorites which I’d like to share with you.  I wasn’t able to get them all but the event is now open to the public free of charge, and although a lot was sold and cleared out last night there are still bargains to be had!  Visit the Housing Works website for more information on hours and directions.

Tilton Fenwick (Suysel Cunningham and Anne Maxwell Foster) did a smashing job with their “blogger’s office” which was front and center as you walked into the Pavillion.  Hats off to this talented duo who looked just as gorgeous as their vignette last night!

From left to right: Ryan Foster (husband of Anne Maxwell Foster),  Kristine Maxwell (mother of AMF), Suysel Cunningham, Anne Maxwell Foster, Dave Cunningham (husband of SC).  Tilton Fenwick girls are carrying KAGE clutches which is a must have for your wardrobe!

Wall Fabric: Brunschwig & Fils’ “Seychelles”, Desk Chair: Hickory Chair’s “Adam Chair”, Painting on desk: Alex Schuchard, desk: The New Traditionalists “Desk No. 2”

Etagere: Antiques by Zaar, pillow fabric: Brunschwig & Fils’ “Fan Fair’, Sofa: Kravet “Medley Sofa”

Andy Cohen and One Kings Lane created a fabulous cozy den with some rather “flashy” artwork on the walls

Miles Redd can do no wrong with color and composition!

 

Ralph Lauren keeps it cool with navy and white florals and chevron patterns

Katie Ridder’s den with wonderful bright reds and oranges

Bradley Stephen’s Interior Design pulled off this fantastic studio apartment which goes to show living in NYC with no space isn’t all the bad!!??

Marisa Marcantonio of Stylebeat chatting it up with Miles Redd!  Get any good tips Marisa?

Iman Mohamed Abdulmajid noted for her charitable work, cosmetics and wife of musician David Bowie

All in all, it was a great evening and I was glad to be involved.  Thank you to the benefit committee and all the sponsors, Housing Works volunteers and Designers who, without you, this event and great benefit would not exist.