DIFFA’s Star-Studded Dining by Design Expands Into New Space
DIFFA‘s largest annual fundraiser, Dining by Design, proved its passion for design and supported the fight against HIV/AIDS last night at Pier 92 in New York. The 18th edition of the event was the largest yet, attracting over 1,000 visitors and filling a new 30,000-square-foot location adjoining the Architectural Digest Home Design Show. “There’s added space, windows and a water view—wow!—and more opportunity to create community and make a DIFFA-rence to those living with HIV and AIDS,” says Cindy Allen, chairman of DIFFA and editor in chief of Interior Design. Also new this year are docent led tours of the dramatic displays.
The 50 installations bring together enormous collaborative energy and expertise. Interior Design teamed with Ali Tayar of Parallel Design and SilverLining Interiors on a bold table titled “All Together Now,” with custom digitally printed fabric wrapping the space like an oversized lantern. Gensler and 3form blurred the lines between outdoor and indoor living, and Stephanie Goto worked with Caesarstone and Gaggenau to design “The Chef’s Table,” inspired by Gaggenau’s Vario knob. Meanwhile, Bolon garnered attention for “Tangerine,” an install in bright, uniform orange using its NOW flooring collection. Watch for a special feature on the tables in the April issue of Interior Design, due out next month.
“This extraordinary event coalesces the most creative talent who bring their passion to the table,” says Allen. “Plus, we get to celebrate what we do best—eating, designing, and, most importantly, making a DIFFA-rence!”
The New York School of Interior Design and Pratt Institute also particpated as part of DIFFA’s Student Design Initiative, presented by Benjamin Moore, and mentored by Brad Ford (NYSID) and Elizabeth Bolognino with Marc Blackwell (Pratt). Event co-chairs were Alfredo Paredes of Ralph Lauren and DIFFA’s executive director Johanna Osburn.
Dining by Design will remain open to the public through Sunday, March 22, with a portion of all ticket sales benefitting DIFFA. The annual Dining by Design Gala will take place on Monday, March 23, from 6:30-11pm; go here for tickets.
