The inaugural showcase invited 23 designers to reimagine the century-old Cornell Inn
The Cornell Inn, a picturesque New England bed and breakfast in Lenox, Massachusetts, has been “spoiling guests in the Berkshires since 1888,” as its website avers. As of this week, guests will be treated to even more splendor as the historical site unveils a full renovation in collaboration with the Kaleidoscope Project, a designer showcase representing a diverse roster of talent.
Twenty-three BIPOC designers from across the country were invited to makeover the century-old property, including 18 guest rooms and communal lobby, dining room, and bar, with proceeds from the event funding scholarships for youths of color interested in pursuing a career in the arts and design industry. “With the advent of the Black Lives Matter Movement, we in the design industry community sought to support our Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) community in an actionable way,” says Patti Carpenter, cofounder of the Kaleidoscope Project and principal of Carpenter + Company, in a statement. “We are seeking to show the true colors present within our community and to create welcoming and inclusive spaces that reflect a broader design narrative.”
Unlike common design show house practice, where the arduous work that goes into the quick-turnaround designs is eventually wiped away, the final interiors of the Kaleidoscope Project are wallpapered, window-draped, and stylishly decorated for the long haul. Though the showcase is open for public viewing May 16–June 6, the designs will be enjoyed by guests at the inn going forward. With that in mind, participating designers decided to abide by the theme of “Restful, Reflection, and Rejuvenation” when renovating the space.