“From an exhibitor perspective, this is the first event where they can present their products in-person to the elite and taste-making Hamptons’ luxury homeowners in an exhibitor friendly, state-of-the-art venue,” explained Rick Friedman, founder of Hamptons Contemporary. “In regards to our guests, we want to make this a fun and inspirational event featuring an amazing display of Hamptons must-haves, free wine, beer and spirits tastings, tasty treats in a casual setting, live BBQ cooking demos, marshmallow toasting, interactive round tables with industry leaders, and a chance to personally meet and discover many of the nation’s leading and cutting-edge emerging artisans of furniture, lighting, and other remarkable 3D pieces.”
The inaugural Hamptons Contemporary will open on Friday, June 3rd and run through Sunday, June 5th. Taking place at the Southampton Elks Fairgrounds, here are a few of the Home Design + Decor Show happenings that we’re looking forward to.
Get an advanced preview of the 160 plus featured exhibitors during the Opening Night Preview on Friday from 5 to 8 p.m. Hosted by Architectural Digest and Animal Rescue Fund of the Hamptons (ARF) board president Lisa McCarthy and ARF board member Alex Papachristidis, along with Jonathan Adler and Simon Doonan, Chesie Breen, Thom Filicia, Alexa Hampton, Celerie Kemble, Scott Nelson, Ann and John Pyne, Elizabeth Pyne, and Vicente Wolf, proceeds from the evening will benefit ARF.
Hamptons American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) members will lead guided tours daily from 1:30 to 2 p.m.
Join Sag Harbor’s Sylvester & Co. for nine inspiring “Meet the Author” book signings. The meet and greets will feature Mark Zeff, Vincente Wolfe, Holly Peterson, Bates Masi + Architects, John Barman, David Scott, Mark Zeff, Bob Tabor, and Scott Sanders.
Product experts will host 30-minute featured spotlights throughout the weekend. The interactive sessions will explore groundbreaking and exclusive products within the industry, as well as take a look at what is driving current trends and industry standards.
ASID members and industry leaders will be featured in informal open round table discussions that will cover a range of topics, such as the psychology of color, the varied advantages of using an interior designer, significant emerging trends in Hamptons and so much more.
Fairgoers will also have the chance to chat with Stephen Fanuka, the founder of Fanuka Inc. The “Contractor to the Stars” has worked on projects for clients including Bethenny Frankel, Beyonce, Rosanna Scotto and Tony Bennett. Fanuka’s Million Dollar Contractor debuted on DIY Network and then moved to HGTV. He also co-authored What’s a Homeowner to Do?
“Along with some of the world’s most celebrated architects and landscape designers,” added Friedman. “There is plenty of convenient free parking with no hassles, which you cannot say about the Javits Center and NYC Piers. We hope to set the standard in fun, function, and a most memorable experience.”
General admission is $20 per person per day. VIP admission is $100 per person and includes entry to the Opening Night Preview and all-access throughout the weekend.
Southampton Elks Fairgrounds is located at 605 County Rd 39 in Southampton. For more information, visit www.hamptonscontemporary.com.