We’re counting down the top coolest stories of 2014 on northforker.com. We will publish one story on our list per day, every day, until Jan. 1.
Coming in at number 10 is the North Fork Designer Show House.
The North Fork Designer Show House, a charity event that had local designers transforming a dated and rundown 19th century farmhouse into a stylish assemblage of meticulously decorated rooms, had two successful showings this year.
The original August event benefited local charities, attracted more than 1,500 visitors and raised more than $40,000, according to Bob Tapp, one of the organizers. A second event held during the holiday season featured the home, which was on loan from Cutchogue Presbyterian Church, decorated for the season. The event, dubbed Christmas at the Show House and Best of North Fork Emporium, was also the site of a Christmas bazaar with all-local vendors.
RELATED: INSIDE THE DESIGNER SHOW HOUSE
Funds were raised through admission to the home and a portion of the vendors’ sales was donated to the church.
The designers’ creations — like a living room decorated all in white by Debra Gildersleeve of Renee’s in Mattituck and the whimsical attic by Conni Cross — were the main draw of the event.
“You can help a good cause and enjoy yourself at the same time,” Cross told us in November. “It’s like a grown-up version of playing house.”
RELATED: CHRISTMAS AT THE SHOW HOUSE
The show house was a collaboration of so many North Fork businesses, designers, and volunteers that drew visitors to the area, raised money for charity and helped local artisans connect with customers. We hope to see it again in 2015.
