In case you didn’t tune in last time, we
unveiled everything you needed to know about the Vanguard Designer Showhouse.
Titled “Urban Elegance,” the yearly event runs May 1st through the 20th, 2012 at
the historic 17 Chapel condominiums in downtown Albany. And while you may have heard about the Vanguard and 17 Chapel
before, this week you’ll get to see how the designers came together and hear
their thoughts on how Urban Elegance will impact Downtown.
The designers who came together for Urban Elegance come in
all forms. Some are new to the area, some are well known local names, and some
have worked closely with Vanguards for years. While it is a diverse group, it’s
safe to say that they all have a passion for design, so much that they are
willing to extend their time and services to Vanguard for free.
Making up this exciting team are Richard Mare, Amy DeBiase,
Sandi Manoogian, Lorraine Smith, Shannon McGivern, Pamela Quick, Arthur
Fowler, Barbara Bishop, Michel
Patterson, Stacy Snell, Lisa Santry, Lynne Ricci, Kathy Rouche, Amy Radley,
Mary Korzinki, Patti Connors, Rae Rau, Amy Donnelly, Mark Stern, Cyndi Myers,
Katherine Brickley, and last but not least Jacqueline McClory.
All twenty-two team members bring something different to the
table, a sentiment echoed by Master Bedroom designer Richard Mare “It’s always
interesting because everyone has their own vision. I’m lucky to be a part of
something like this.
Mare, who operates out of Downtown Designs on Jay Street in
Schenectady, described the on-site atmosphere as “something truly unique
because all the design boards were on the same line which is kind of uncommon
when working in bigger groups especially since I came onboard late.”
One of the coolest things about 17 Chapel besides its beautiful interiors is
its external surroundings – which are just as alluring as the condominiums
themselves. Walk outside and within mere minutes you are surrounded by restaurants,
hotels, bars, entertainment venues, and even the Hudson River! Need to get
somewhere by car? Interstate 787 is just a stone’s throw away allowing you to
get to virtually anywhere in the Capital District in a flash. Amy Donnelly, who
holds a degree in Urban Planning, describes the location as the perfect place
for Vanguard and 17 Chapel to revitalize Downtown, “As an Albany native, I’m
very excited to help bring new energy to the region. Vanguard is doing
something that’s going to be really meaningful to Downtown’s development.”
Donnelly is helping design the boys bedroom. When she’s not at 17 Chapel, she
works at Trinity Rose Designs.
There you have it. Check
back next time for more insight from the designers of the Vanguard Showhouse!
-EH
