Wednesday, March 30, 2011

LAST WEEK: DIFFA'S DINING BY DESIGN

This year, DIFFA's Dining by Design event, held last week at Pier 94, honored Margaret Russell, the newly appointed Editor in Chief of Architectural Digest. Her years of tireless work on behalf of DIFFA and D by D were recognized this year, and given her busy schedule, she did not design a table as she usually does. Alas, the color filled tables were amazing as they always are-- here are some of the best of the bunch:

I was invited to sit at the transporting zen Donna Karan for Lenox table. Her new black and white globaltabletop collection, carried at Neiman Marcus, filled the place settings.

A long table with a brass planter running down the center was surrounded by modern, pared - down benches on a neutral sisal carpet.

Ralph Lauren built out a country porch for their Dry Goods table, complete with mismatched white chairs and camping lanterns.

Blue and white plates and wildflowers enhanced the Little House on The Prarie cozy aesthetic.

A white hemstitched linen tablecloth and pewter charger under plates enhance the country look.

Michael Tavano looked to daisies for inspiration- his yellow and white palette was fun and springy.

Embroidery and calligraphy in yellow, gray and white say happy.

Peonies and a giant umbrella tie the hot pink, orange and green colors on Scalamandre's table together.

The William Yeoward plates are the perfect addition.

NYDC's saffron yellow painterly tromp l'oeil walls were inspired by the Guerlain Institute in Paris circa 1939.

Brad Ford spent literally months working with Moore and Giles Leather to create this custom Woody/Traveling Bar.

It is just amazing- from the ice holder in the center to the plush interior, he has thought of everything for this 1950's drinking den on wheels. It will be auctioned off in December to benefit Diffa. If you want to follow the tricked out Silver Tear Camper on its cross- country tour, Follow The Woody here.

Kravet's table combined rich jewel tones of plum, yellow and red. A demilune banquette created a chic dining setting that I wish could be transported to a real restaurant!

Lamps with bright fabric shades were placed on Diane von Furstenberg Home's table. This was the first time many saw the graphic geometric collection up close and responded with raves.

David Beahm Events created a lush floral enclave, complete with William Yeoward Crystal and William and Kate's faces on dinner plates. Their impending nuptuals are on everyone's mind.

Mark Blackwell created a modern rustic setting with bark lamps, louver blinds and a chocolate, white and silver scheme.

Faux bois dessert plates of his design brought the modern and rustic together.

6 comments:

Hamptontoes said...

I could look at these images for days! I just love seeing table settings that are well designed and these photos delivered perfection! I'm crazy about the William/Kate settings! I'm having a Royal Wedding celebration playdate for my daugther, their wedding is on our minds too!

Mary Ann Pickett said...

What a fantasy dining experience. Did you take the photos yourself? Amazing.

Alicia said...

The faux bois plates have me drooling. Fabulous post.

peggy braswell said...

Loved seeing all of this...Great post. xxpeggybraswelldesign.com

Unknown said...

I did take these snaps- some are a bit dark, but then you feel as though you were there!

GED online said...

I love all the plates and glasses:)