Okay, here’s the inside scoop: “Urban Elegance,” the
title of this year’s Vanguard Showhouse is taking place right here in our own backyard in downtown
Albany.
So, what is the Vanguard Showhouse? The Showhouse is an
annual event held by Vanguard-Albany Symphony, Inc. that’s been running for 32
years, raising funds for the award winning Albany Symphony Orchestra. Occurring
over a three week period from May 1 – May 20, the event brings together professional
designers to decorate new and existing homes.
But there’s more to it than just new paint on the walls
or rearranged furniture: Vanguard invites people to come mingle and explore the
redesigned homes, purchase set pieces, seek decorating advice from expert
designers, and attend seminars all for a great cause. Through a relationship
that spans more than 30 years, Vanguard has supported the Symphony in just
about every way imaginable whether it’s through fundraising, assisting with transportation,
or even providing refreshments at concerts.
While Vanguard has remodeled spaces all across the
Capital Region, this year’s event is extra special because it marks the return
to downtown Albany, where it all started.
Barbara Richer, President of Vanguard described her
vision for a Showhouse event when she laid her eyes upon the historic property
located at 17 Chapel.
“Last summer I watched the construction going on at 17
Chapel from the Albany Symphony Orchestra Office. It struck me that the
property would bring a new positive energy and commitment to the Symphony’s
downtown Albany neighborhood. The renovation was bringing an existing building,
with a deep history of commitment to business and artistic endeavors, back to
life”‘ she remembers.
“We’re thrilled to
work together with Vanguard and The Rosenblum Companies” said Michel Patterson,
veteran designer, “I’ve done fifteen shows for Vanguard but this is one I’m
really excited about because it’s right in downtown Albany. It really feels
like we’re making a big impact and hopefully we can inspire others to follow
our lead.”
It seems like a match made in heaven; you would be hard
pressed to find a better way for 17 Chapel to make their presence felt in downtown
Albany than to host the Vanguard Showhouse, a well-received, long running
successful event under the guidance of Barbara Richer and the vision of some of
the best designers in the area. Check back often
for exclusive pictures
from 17 Chapel and to hear from the designers themselves about how everything
is coming together.
-EH
