Owner/Designer Don Wooters is an insightful, design-intuitive guy who will make you think and laugh at the same time, with his intellectually-stimulating comments. No question, he immensely enjoys working with his clientele, and has that requisite combination of professionalism, talent and experience to pull-off any job he decides to tackle. Part of the arsenal he brings to the table is being well-versed and traveled in the design and art world. In addition to completing projects up and down the East Coast, he makes a point of attending an array of interesting events, including art shows, opera performances, and trending designer showcases.

He recently was in New York to take in Dining By Design, an annual spring show sponsored by Architectural Digest and hosted by DIFFA (Design Industries Foundation Fighting AIDS). “I always do my best not to miss this event each year,” says Don, adding emphasis to the fact that “some of the leaders in the design industry are on display here”. Since being founded in 1984, DIFFA has become one of the country’s largest supporters of direct care for people living with HIV/AIDS and preventive education for those at risk. This year’s event raised nearly $800,000 to go towards DIFFA’s grant making efforts.

In addition to this being a great cause, it is a spectacular presentation of dining room design, from the minds and wildest imaginations of current interior designers, design schools, as well as popular decorator brands.   These settings — each completely unique — capture and transport you somewhere else fantastic for an out-of-the-box (and in some cases, out of this world!) dining experience.

Below, peruse a few glimpses from the show, along with inspiration statements by the creative folks behind the luxuriously-decorated interior spaces.

(All photos taken by Don Wooters.)

Benjamin Moore & Consentino, designed by Julia Buckingham

“The great Paris fashion houses have been Julia Buckingham’s muse. Our space is reminiscent of a long, flowing silk-charmeuse white gown with sparkling chandelier earrings; chunky lacquered bracelets; and a strikingly modern sculptural necklace hidden under a snow-white fur wrap.”

 

Luxe Interiors + Design with LIAGRE, designed by Sasha Bikoff

“Christian Liagre is known for amazingly chic and sleek woodwork, so this space translates that into something more vibrant that displays the furniture in a new light with de Gournay’s ‘Le Eden’ wallpaper transforming the room into a rainforest.

Don’s description: “A floating banquet topped with greenery and umbrellas creates a nice centerpiece and division between either side and the intimate, yet friendly tables for two. The multi-colored flower arrangements, along with variety of different chair fabrics add elements of fun to this setting that would work nicely outdoors as well. I see lots of lively conversations going on at these tables.”

 

Arteriors

“Descend into an underwater wonderland inspired by the lost city of Atlantis. Organic shapes, gilded finishes and seeded glass are a few design elements that will pay tribute to this revered utopia that has captivated dreamers for centuries.”

 

Parsons The New School For Design

“string. a singular element. an individual. vulnerable in isolated form. woven together a network evolves. density in strength. support. a community.”

For more information about DIFFA and their mission in fighting HIV/AIDS, visit: www.diffa.org.