It was about two years ago when Halifax decorator Jonathan Legate came to me and said that he had an idea to bring the local design community together to do some good. He described an event that he had seen in major cities in the U.S., where designers and architects came together to create inspired dining spaces for the public to view and enjoy. He asked for help to make this happen in Halifax, and I immediately said sure, we can do this.
We prepared a presentation, and went to East Coast Living Magazine to be the owner and presenter of this event, which we later called Dine by Design East. They immediately recognized what a great fit it was, and excitedly came on board. A volunteer board was struck, and the hard work began. It was decided that the benefactor of this charitable event was to be NSCAD University, in memory of Amber Harkins, former graphic designer and editor of East Coast Living. A scholarship is to be formed in Amber's name.
So, after much deliberation and planning, physical work and community involvement, last week was our first ever Dine by Design East! Ten designers came on board and created ten dining room displays. Visitors commented on how imaginative and varied the displays were. We also featured ten top local chefs at our gala, who created finger food versions of menus inspired by our room displays. We were partnered with Paolo and Jane from Jane's Catering and Events (formerly Janes on the Common). Also at the gala were six pop-up galleries, samplings of local wines, spirits and beers, and music. What a fabulous evening it was!
Here are some pictures of the Attica display called "Dwelling", inspired by the mid-century bungalow, a time when good design was being brought to the masses, and the outdoors was brought indoors.
sofa and paintings by Christopher Joyce
a close up of the Basil chair by Calligaris; bowls on wall by Global Views
bowls on table by Jonathan Adler; table by Copeland Furniture
Case study planter; George Nelson bubble lamp
sofa and paintings by Christopher Joyce
sofa and paintings by Christopher Joyce
We're looking forward to Dine by Design East 2014, and have many new ideas for next year. To read more about this year's event, visit: http://eastcoastliving.ca/dinebydesign/.
