Brooklyn's Progress
February/March 2005

The Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce is revving up for Brooklyn Designs 2005 to be held May 6 to 8. The show jury, which includes prominent designers as well as representatives from Interior Design Magazine, Metropolitan Home Magazine and Furniture New York, selected the very best Brooklyn-based designers and manufacturers of contemporary furnishings from a record number of applicants.  “The outstanding quality and increase in the number of applicants is a testament to the borough’s thriving design industry. Brooklyn Designs veterans will be joined by an outstanding group of newcomers,” said Kenneth Adams, President of the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce. The complete exhibitor list, which may top 50 firms this year, will be posted on the Brooklyn Designs Web site in the coming weeks (http://www.brooklyndesigns.net/).

According to one returning exhibitor, Todd Seidman of 54 Dean, “Brooklyn Designs 2004 was our first trade show and the experience couldn't have been better. The reception we received was phenomenal. Additionally, the sense of community that the show fostered reaffirmed for us why it’s so great to be a designer working in Brooklyn. We are very much looking forward to showing our work again at Brooklyn Designs 2005.”

“Brooklyn Designs 2004 made such an impression on us that we shifted our focus from custom work to the development of original designs. Among the exciting prospects of exhibiting is the potential for introducing ourselves not only to consumers but also to the other members of the local design community,” said newcomer Sam Kragiel of Brave Space.

“Brooklyn Designs has a unique appeal that draws all the right trade and press contacts as well as a knowledgeable buying public. Not only was I able to reconnect with a lot of buyers I had met before, but also with a retail clientele that has a specific, sophisticated taste," added Bill Couig of Further Design.

The Brooklyn Chamber is pleased to announce that returning sponsors Two Trees Management, ABC Carpet & Home, Con Edison, Interior Design Magazine and Time Out New York Kids will be joined by kitchen appliance giants Bosch, Thermador and Gaggenau as well as the Corcoran Group Brooklyn. Also reaffirming their commitment to the show are the local chapters of the American Institute of Architects, the American Society of Interior Designers and the International Interior Design Association.

According to Mr. Adams, “We are working closely with our outstanding sponsors to develop the show program and event schedule.  In fact, a big opening night bash will take place at the BSH showroom, which showcases stylish, high-end appliances from Thermador, Gaggenau and Bosch, with beverages provided by The Brooklyn Brewery. We are also exploring an enhanced seminar series, designer/architect events, and consumer demonstrations and promotions.  The streets of DUMBO will be alive with activities related to Brooklyn Designs 2005.”

Brooklyn Designs 2005 will take place at St. Ann’s Warehouse at 38 Water St. in DUMBO as well as a second location (TBA). Show hours have been set for Fri., May 6, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Sat., May 7, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.; and Sun., May 8, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.  Pre-registered professional members of the design trade attend for free all day Friday.

Brooklyn Designs is supported by the Brooklyn Delegation to the New York State Legislature in cooperation with NYS Empire State Development Corporation, the Brooklyn City Council Delegation and the NYC Department of Small Business Services. For more information visit http://www.brooklyndesigns.net/ or contact auster*events at 718-243-1414.