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. 
From 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. 
Pictured 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.
Caroline Barr is a graduate of the two year Associate Degree program in Interior Design at Villa Maria College. She collaborated with Rebecca Duda, also an A.A.S. Interior Design alum to create the Sewing Room. The space is inspired by the industrial age and the fashion industry. 
Contrast was used as a principal design feature and it can be seen in the use of color, particularly the navy and white chevron patterned ceiling, as well as the materiality, including the softness of fabrics against hard metal finishes. A unique feature in the room is the custom designed desk that exemplifies industry. Caroline has founded her own design firm, Caroline Design, which is located in Buffalo, NY.
