IFDA Florida members and invited guests were excited to participate for the third year at the fabulous 40th Anniversary Palm Beach 2016 Red Cross Designer Show House. Located in the Old Northwood neighborhood of West Palm Beach, it is the historic former Fire Station #3. Built in 1938, it was renovated into a 4 bedroom Art Moderne-style home.
IFDA Florida volunteers above are members Marsha Koch, Elizabeth Zecca, Lynn Sciarrone, guest Frank Kraszewski, member Leah Keitz FIFDA, guest Ellie Caimano, members Susan Heller, Beverly Stewart, guest Elaine Westman, and member Sylvia Wallace.
We were greeted by a beautifully eclectic Foyer by Jennifer Garrigues with Diana El Daher, where they artfully combined contemporary pieces with antique textiles. What an inspiring first impression.
The Living Room transformed by Jack Fhillips was lovely with it’s soft color palette of blush, gray, black and whites, which he explained was influenced by the colors trending in today’s fashion.
Across the center hall the elegant Dining Room by Piper Gonzales beckoned us. The room was large but the dark walls and luxurious silk window treatment gave it an infimate ambiance.
Who is ready for dessert? A console table and bench replaced a more traditional buffet.
A formal grouping of botanicals brighten up this corner. There was even a pair of comfy wing chairs for after dinner cappucino. It made it seem like a room for spending time in, not just for dining.
Beyond the Foyer was a relaxing Family Room designed by Joseph Cortes and Kevin Marnell, who describe the space as “evoking the look of comfortable confident glamour”. Located just off the bar/lounge it is perfect for sharing cocktails and conversation.
Tucked away behind the living areas a Master Guest Suite, by Stephen Mooney, is a quiet retreat with a view of the pool.
Upstairs we find a spacious Master Bedroom created by Angela Reynolds. She describes it as “hearkening to a 1970’s Malibu beach house with essential natural world elements, as reimagined for an Art Deco Florida setting”.
The use of neutral tones made it restful but the accents like this dynamic chandelier, made it far from boring.
This photo mural behind the dresser was dramatic and effective!
Raffia wrapped bedside chests and a sisal rug bring in natural textures. Beautifully styled drapery panels hang from square rods.
A fiddle leaf fig tree, so popular in today’s interiors, enjoys a pretty sunlit corner beside a chair provided for volunteers to take a seat.
A impressive “four poster canopy bed” sets off Guest Bedroom#2 by Kerry Allabastro.
It’s interesting to note that the headboard itself is not part of the of piping that creates the canopy framework. The drapery panels actually become the “posters”. So clever!
Other unique elements are these sweet Asian stools with bright cushions and an antique block cut for printing on silk resting on the night chest.
The treasures behind these glass doors in the secretary desk lend even more character and charm.
Designer Scott Robertson worked his magic in another Guest Bedroom. His design was inspired by a new Scalamandre fabric collection.
A small balcony off the Guest Room is the perfect place to take in some sun like these plants grouped together in pretty pots.
What a wonderful and inspiring day. Congratulations to the team of talented designers and dedicated volunteers at the Red Cross for all their committment to making this Show House event so successful for the past 40 years. How incredible!
And a heartfelt thank you to the outstanding efforts of the original residents of the historic “North Station”.
Stay tuned for the next post highlighting the spectacular loggia, poolside patio and upstairs deck!
How did you like the tour? What inspired you the most? As always we invite you to share your thoughts in the comment box!
What a delightful post about a gorgeous home designed expertly for a worthy cause. IFDA is a respected organization that inspires designers to be the best they can be as shown by the outstanding description of the Red Cross Showcase House by Marsha Koch.
The following have also emailed their comments:
Betsy Martin says “What a great blog! Can’t wait for the next installment.”
Marti Evans replied, “Thank for sharing. Beautiful Show House!”
Wanda Gozdz commented, “Sorry I missed it!”
Thanks everyone. It was great to hear from you. Glad you enjoyed the post.