I am on the design committee for a terrific annual design event called Rooms with a View, started by Albert Hadley and held at the Southport Congregational Church in Southport, CT. We have a stellar lineup this fall, and Barbara Sallick is the Honorary Chair. Each year the event knocks it out of the park-- from the enormous creativity of the designer vignettes, massive attendance, and funds raised for local charities. 12 designers from around the country have been invited to create vignettes, and wow do they work their magic. They get a 6’ x 8’ x '8’ space to transform, and do they ever. Congratulations to the class of 2024, including Courtney Blanton, Peyton Cochran, Dan Barsanti/Chris Demone, Kerry Delrose, Sara Hillery, Bryan Huffman, Dana Koebbe, Patrick Mele, Betsy Shiverick, Alexander Wilson, Doug Wright and NYSID winner, Carissa Kim Pintello. There will be cocktail parties, book signings and more.

I am thrilled to be part of this event, and lucky to be participating in not one but two of the lecture series panels. First up, on Friday November 8th at 2pm, I will be speaking with Tori Mellott about her new book from Schumacher, Southern Interiors: A Celebration of Personal Style. Then, on Saturday November 9th, at 11:30am, I will be in conversation with one of the great voices in American design today, Tom Scheerer. Both promise to be interesting talks with two people I admire and adore.

I am excited to see you this November and visit with so many wonderful creatives, friends in my hometown, and thank you to all the sponsors for their generous support.

Ahead, a look at last years incredible vignettes.

Summer House by Amanda Essex

Southport Roots by my sister, Amanda Reynal

Garden Inspired by Lindsey Coral Harper

Palette Pleaser by Ross Alexander

Global Exploration by Jennifer Gresinger

Fainting Room by Smith Gardner

Tartan Party Barn, Scot Meacham Wood