I tend to DIFFA...

DIFFA: Dining by Design at Architectural Digest Home Show

Okay designers, this was a great treat and hope you were able to attend the Architectural Digest Home Show and DIFFA: Dining by Design event over the weekend. I know many look forward to the NY International Gift Show, but I tend to DIFFA. (Get it?) This year's event was artistically extraordinary. If you missed it, no worries. I'm glad to share some spectacular photos from marketing photographer, Mariellen Carpentieri of Mariellen Carpentieri Photography. It just may get you to add this event to your calendar next year.

Myself, Interior Designer, Irene Turner & Public Relations Expert, Andrew Joseph {Photo via Courtney Mullins Price}

First, I must thank all the bloggers of BlogTour NYC and Modenus for always making these events a little more special. For me it's one of the best ways to experience any great design event. I am in awe when I get to meet and greet them in person. It was fantastic to see you all!

Margaret Russell, Editor in Chief of Architecture Digest and Interior Designer, Nate Berkus {Photo via Barbara Viteri}

 There is always so much to see and do. It's impossible to take it all in. Planning is key, so here is my suggestion, block out time to ensure you are sitting in on some keynote speakers on the day you plan to attend. You know I am all about learning directly from the pros, so making sure I blocked time to sit in on Nate Berkus presentation was essential. It felt great to get educated and take a load off after a few hours of walking.

New York School of Interior Design, Mentor: Marc Blackwell

This year's designers presented themselves as art exhibits. It was like attending Art Basel in Miami. The work spoke to you. I wanted to share some of my personal favorites. 

"Supper" A collaboration with Interior Design, Wolf Gordon and Planar. Design: Ali Tayar of Parallel Design

Benjamin Moore

Parsons The New School for Design Mentor 2Michaels {Photo via Barbara Viteri}

Design Within Reach

As a huge supporter for the fight against HIV/Aids and recently collaborating with the wonderful organization, The Bailey House, there was one display that resonated with me. (The Bailey House will have their Gala/Auction event on March 28th. Click here for details.) I am so upset I did not get the designer's name, but it was a must show. For me this epitomize what DIFFA is all about. It's disturbing and yet beautiful. It provides chromotherpy and displays pill consumption as therapy. It drew up emotion and heighten almost all senses. It was true art.

No better way to make an entrance and exit then by this illuminating design work done by my friends Dwayne Clark and Bob Gaynor of Clark Gaynor Interiors + Input Creative Studio. It consist of 1900 feet of wire, 279 lightbulbs and wattage at 6,800.

Clark Gaynor Interiors + Input Creative Studio {Photo via Barbara Viteri}

 Dwayne Clark, Myself and Bob Gaynor

I had an incredible time. These events are more than just to view the latest introductions from vendors, but exploring creativity first hand. It is a wonderful networking opportunity as well. I loved meeting Twitter and Facebook followers. I fed my design inspired soul by sitting in on a few presentations from our design industry elite and I showed my support for some of my clients, interior design friends and design enthusiasts. I only wish I had a nanny that evening to party hard at the Gala event. Maybe next year!

XOXO

Barbara Viteri 

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