ARF Designer Showhouse
- Ashley Ruth O'Connell
- Jun 8, 2016
- 1 min read
The answer to the old children's ditty: "How much is that doggy in the window?" Well, free, with lots of sloppy kisses, if you attended the Animal Rescue Fund's (ARF) 6th Annual Designer Showcase. 'Tis the season for fundraisers, and Memorial Day Weekend boasted a slew of notable causes. The ARF Thrift & Treasure Shop, located on Montauk Highway in Sagaponack, received a fresh coat of paint, literally. Several established designers were called in to give the six rooms a touch of their own style, using their own goods, as well as items offered in the actual ARF Thrift Shop. Unlike many showhouses, everything was for sale.
While some events support situations a world away, ARF really brought the feeling home, with a mobile pet van. Several darling cats and dogs eagerly licked guests' hands, waiting to possibly be adopted right then and there. It was hard to resist bringing home yet another feisty little tiger (this author has two rescue cats).
Each room boasted a different feel, with some reminiscent of a camper's lodge (by Tracey Cavaniola), while others were light, monochromatic and airy. Designers included Nancy Corzine, Lynda Sylvester and the like.
One of the most spectacular perhaps was Eldon Wong's "Dinner at Dogtown Abbey," where glasses held kibbles and bits in lieu of sorbet and sweets. John Stedila and Tim Button's country-coral bedroom, with the setting sun peeking through the windows, was tempting enough to move into. Sam Allen's dressing room was especially great, making use of the iconic orange Hermes gift boxes. Meow!