The fourth annual “Take a Seat” international design exhibition and auction is returning to New England on May 1. Produced by the New England Chapter of the International Furnishings and Design Association (IFDA-NE), the event features local designers’ “up-cycled” chair designs, and benefits the Women’s Institute for Housing and Economic Development, an award-winning national affordable-housing organization.
“Take a Seat” connects architects, builders, craftsmen, designers and students of the furnishing and design industry with a venue for promoting their craft and giving back to the community. Their chairs will be displayed throughout the greater Boston area in a traveling exhibit before being auctioned off at a gala on June 1. IFDA chapters throughout the world host “Take a Seat” events each year, with Arizona, Florida, Minnesota and Virginia chapters planning events for this coming fall.
From left: 2015’s “Koi Chair,” by Chairity Shop; “Southie Space Saver,” by Edwina Drummond Boose (Edwina Drummond Interiors) and Stefco Builders
“This event is an excellent way to help promote local craftsmen while also garnering attention for a great cause. Last year’s event raised over $16,000 for the Women’s Institute for Housing and Economic Development, and this year we hope to top it. In fact, the 2015 event was so successful, we were awarded the 2015 Gold PRISM Award for Best Marketing Event or Series,” says Karen Dzendolet, president of IFDA-NE. “We encourage New England designers to submit their work and for residents to visit the exhibits and show support for these hardworking professionals.” The deadline for submissions is April 15.
“The Women’s Institute is very grateful for our partnership with IFDA-NE and its dedicated members. The Community Service committee’s generosity and initiative is making real improvements in the lives of residents in Grinnell Mansion in New Bedford, Massachusetts. We are excited for the continued efforts of IFDA throughout the year and years to come,” says Betsy Crum, WIHED executive director.
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