Metropolitan Home, the definitive resource in modern design and contemporary style, celebrates its iconic, annual "Design 100" issue that honors 100 of the most noteworthy personalities, places and extraordinary objects in the world of innovative design. The celebration kicks-off with an exclusive event at the tony Four Seasons Restaurant Pool Room in Manhattan, showcasing some the year's most exceptional designs as featured in the May 2007 issue. Following a year of review and careful deliberation, Metropolitan Home's editorial staff has selected the best of the best across a variety of categories, including: architecture, arts and culture, automotive, food, "green" design, technology, and travel and hospitality. The enviable list of who's who in the world of innovation and design includes American glass artist Dale Chihuly, Shanghai's rising star Pearl Lam, outdoor furniture purveyor Janus et Cie, skatepark architect Dreamland Skateparks, haute accessories retailer Longchamp, designer Marjorie Skouras and environmental activists such as Paul Newman, Robert Redford and Brad Pitt, to name a few.
"Our 100 honorees represent a mosaic portrait of the world of modern design," said Donna Warner, Editor-In-Chief of Metropolitan Magazine. "This is our tenth annual Design 100 issue and we are thrilled to celebrate the newest and most beautiful home furnishings, projects with heart, groundbreaking buildings and fabulous people. We're excited to honor them tonight at the Four Seasons."
To celebrate the annual guide to what's new now, Metropolitan Home's event will incorporate many of the distinct Design 100 selections into the chic surroundings. The centerpiece will be an installation by world-renowned artist Dale Chihuly of 36 red glass "reeds" projecting from the restaurant's iconic pool. Other highlights include topiaries by Janus et Cie and Dale Chihuly himself signing copies of his book, Fire. Guests will enjoy a variety of hors d'oeuvres inspired by some of the featured Design 100 items such as Olivado Avocado oil from New Zealand and Fra'Mani handcrafted salumi from renowned Bay Area chef Paul Bertolli. Additionally, attendees will be treated to the event's signature Brazilian cocktail -- and number four on the Design 100 list -- Caipirinhas.
To cap off the evening, the magazine will raffle off number 27 on the Design 100 list, the Cradle wing chair designed by Laura Kirar for Baker Furniture. Despite the traditional lines, the playful upholstery selections from the likes of Paul Smith, Pierre Frey, Robert Allen, Lee Joffa, Kravet, and Jim Thompson, results in a thoroughly modern design. Funds raised through raffle ticket sales will benefit local Manhattan non-profit, Housing Works.
Metropolitan Home stands alone as the definitive guide to modern design and the unparalleled champion of contemporary style. The magazine's urban mindset speaks to readers everywhere and sets the standard for how to live well now. Every article and photograph connects with the magazine's affluent, intelligent, progressive readers. Each page informs and inspires consumers to decorate, renovate, garden and cook as they create a haven for themselves and their families. Metropolitan Home's distinctive voice elevates eclectic style and celebrates the impact that quality design has on today's modern lifestyle.