The Designer Show House on the Hudson

I was slightly annoyed when Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow on Groundhog Day, predicting the extension of cold weather for another six weeks.  Oh winter!

However, on February 7, the world totally changed.  Somehow winter became a shade of gorgeous that I had not seen all season, and there was actually something fun to do!  I went to see a pretty awesome, recently constructed (2008) house over in Rockland County, and the proceeds went to a great cause!

From January 24 to February 8, the doors of a magnificent 6,000-square-foot, stone country chateau, with panoramic Hudson River views on 1.52 acres, opened to the public.  The Upper Grandview Home, designed by eco-builder extraordinaire, Michael Demarco is considered one Rockland County's first green mini-estates . There were 10 interior designers who graciously staged the house to benefit Meals on Wheels Programs & Services of Rockland, Inc.  In an unprecedented partnership, the interior designers teamed up with local artists, and area merchants to create an incredible show house. 

A modest admission fee of $10 allowed visitors to see wonderfully stylish, and fabulous rooms.  It was inspirational to see so many people collaborate to support a significant organization.  I managed to take a few photos while I was there too. 

Laura Blanco of Laura Blanco Interiors designed the entrance foyer. More than nine artists contributed work to the show house, and a portion of their sales was donated to Meals on Wheels Programs and Services of Rockland.  The house's lower level (not shown here) was transformed into an art gallery.

The living room was designed by Regina Kay & Wendy Wallin of Kay Wallin Impeccable Designs, based in Upper Saddle River, New Jersey.

Karen Houghton Interiors designed the Sitting Room.  This room was my personal favorite, because of the abundance of light.

Melody Moricco designed the Master Bedroom suite.  This room had breathtaking views of the Hudson River from the French doors that open to a balcony. Below is the adjoining master bathroom.

The Kid's Supply Company, an upscale children's furniture located on Manhattan's chic Madison Avenue, customized this nursery suite.

The Guest Suite: August K. Fox Interiors.  The designer's statement:

Our vision was to create a welcoming, sumptuous space drawing inspiration from the European architecture of the house.  The intent was to cultivate a setting in which a guest, perhaps visiting from France or Italy, would feel at ease and find all the comforts of home while away on holiday.

Being a guest in someone's home can oftentimes be a bit tiring, so we wanted to give our visitor a place to "escape to" and retreat from the pressures of being a gracious house guest.

Everything contained in the show house was offered for sale, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting Meals on Wheels. Each room had a treasure-trove of decorative accessories, including tableware, artwork, and vases, available in a wide-range of price points. Fresh flower displays could also be found throughout the house.

Margot Klope Interiors, LLC, designed the Kitchen. Ms. Klope called the room's design, "Winter Morning."

The "Winter Morning" kitchen has a very rustic feel. The pine cones, branches, and greenery make it feel as though the outside is inside! This look is very appealing, even in this modern kitchen. The chocolate brown walls add lusciousness to the space.  The rich, red accent pieces and alcove, warm things up, and are a wonderful compliment to the stainless steel, dark wood cabinets, and dark walls.

 Landau Ethan Allen designed the Dining Room.

The surrounding park-like acres, overlook the Hudson River, and the Tappan Zee Bridge. The house is currently on the market for $3.2 million.