Creative Interiors by Melissa

Melissa Pleace is a graduate of the Villa Maria College Interior Design Program and it was a pleasure to see her participate in the 2013 Junior League of Buffalo Show House. mural by Victoria GeorgeThis was Melissa’s first room at a Show House. Her design for the Master Bathroom Couples Sweet Retreat was a whimsical and playful decorating delight. Taking her inspiration from a beautiful French Provincial paisley fabric she successfully brought the outdoors in and combined both masculine and feminine features. assorted spring 2013 036Collaborating with local artists the room featured a hand painted mural by Victoria George. Attention to detail is prevalent in the space from the new ceramic tile floor, installed in a basket weave pattern to the updated light fixtures and lush greenery.  The vintage subway tile on the walls was complimented by the sky blue painted walls and accessories.

Villa Interior Design Alumni….Making a Difference

Pride of place and community support are hallmarks of Villa Maria College Interior Design Alumni.  This year’s Junior League Show House was one of the most beautiful ever, and it was also one of the most spacious.  As a professor in the Interior Design Program it gave me great pride to document over 20 spaces that were products of the efforts of Villa students and alums. villa students and alums in the IDA roomFrom grand spaces like the Master Bedroom and the outdoor terraces to bathrooms and sewing rooms, it was exciting to see so many familiar faces sharing their artistic, creative and design talents. The Garden Party was attended by a record breaking turn-out and the logistics of moving through the house were crowded, but we were able to gather a sizeable number of students and alums to capture a photo opportunity in the IDA designed room. Front hallwayPictured above are Melissa Pleace, Debbie Ziccardi, Barb King, Karen Mattoon, Sandy Nelson, Danielle Schiavetti, Barb Reformat, Joe Battaglia, Rebecca Duda, Caroline Barr, Sandra Zygaj-Borowski, Tara Clack, and Constance Strother.  This is a terrific Villa story that I take tremendous joy in sharing.  Keep an eye out for our commemorative poster featuring all the terrific spaces that have the Villa touch!  Pictured above is the Bird of Paradise Hallway, by Terry Litzinger, a graduate of the Villa Interior Design Program, she brings 20 years of experience to both commercial and residential design, bringing a classic, sophisticated style that is inspired by nature.  The chandelier in this space was a vintage birdcage that underwent a transformation to create visually interesting light patterns in the space.