During Spring Market at the D&D Building last week, JAB Anstoetz invited interior designers Michael Tavano, Jennifer Flanders and Louis Garcia to create three summer-themed vignettes, which are now up for auction to benefit the Alpha Workshops.

Guests joined moderator Patrick Hamilton for a tour of the showroom as the designers explained their inspiration for their vignettes.

“Blue to me is beach—it’s all about the water,” said Flanders. She was given the theme, “A Day at the Beach,” and was inspired by a mother-daughter day.

“You have to think outside of the box,” said Garcia, whose theme was a New York City rooftop barbecue. “You are typically working with a very small space so bring in bright and fun colors.”

“I wanted it to be moody and relaxing,” said Tavano of his Poolside Cabana themed vignette.

After walking attendees through each of the vignettes, Hamilton gathered the group in the front of the showroom to talk about outdoor living and what summer means to them.

From left: Michael Tavano, Patrick Hamilton, Jennifer Flanders and Louis Garcia

“People are spending a lot of time outdoors—it’s like they want the whole living room picked up and moved outside,” said Flanders. “I want the exterior to be an extension of the interior; it’s definitely a part of the home.”

Hamilton asked the designers about their favorite summer cocktail and the best outdoor living product under $100?

Flanders jokingly responded “A great bottle of wine and some cheap sunglasses,” which happened to be a part of her vignette.

The group agreed that a few great throw pillows and matching towels are key to outdoor living spaces. And, of course, less is more.

“When dealing with smaller spaces like in NYC, it’s about what piece you choose, not about how much is out there,” said Tavano. “Pick something that is really unique and special.”

All three vignettes are on display in the JAB showroom (D&D Building, 1st floor) through Thursday, May 22. Everyone is encouraged to bid on the vignettes and the highest offer will get to take it home. All proceeds benefit the Alpha Workshops.