Interior designers race to showcase skills

The Sarasota Chapter of the Interior Design Society challenged its members to take a commercial space at 100 Central Ave. and, in less than four weeks, turn it into a move-in-ready, loft-style live/work space, featuring living and dining rooms, a master suite, art gallery, library and artist’s studio.

Since its inception in 2002, the chapter has raised more than $17,000 for local charities and student scholarships.

IF YOU GO
What: Designers on the move POP-UP Showcase
Where: 100 Central Ave., Sarasota
When: Times vary. The showcase runs through March 11. A wine and hors d’oeuvres meet-the-charities reception takes place from 5 to 9 p.m. Friday, March 9.
Tickets: $10 donation benefiting the Education Foundation and Trinity Charities.
Call: 928-7015 or 313-2222

MY DESIGN
Living room: “There’s an eclectic feel of everything  — mid-century, recycled, modern contemporary, Danish, mixed granite, marble and wood, and shine, color and texture” — Stan Writesel, Beginning to End Interiors

Master suite: “It’s a pop of color with a Caribbean vibe” — Darian Hoyt Miller, Banana Tree Concierge

Artist’s studio: “The art studio is nature-based with recycled materials, such as Rover, a recycled newspaper dog. Local artist Barbara Gerdeman helped me with props and the faux finish” — Cherie Thurlby, Innovative Design Solutions

Closet: “I had the opportunity to put in a jewelry drawer, hamper and also utilize the corners to maximize space. I added a punch of color with ‘Lime Ricky’ paint” — Bob Barthman, More Space Place

Library: “I started with the tile and worked around it. It’s an inviting, warm and comfortable retreat to relax” — René Nielsen, Interiors by René