Celebrating creative collaborations

L-R: Designers Sappho Griffin, Joe Gallant and chef Brad Wammes. Collage: Janice Hudson
By Nicole Trask 20 October 2014 Share this story
The more I write about and immerse myself in the world of lifestyle and design, the clearer it becomes to me that elements of a beautiful, detail-oriented life spill over into so many creative outlets. A fine wine could be compared to a thought-provoking painting, or a beautifully put-together home may be as striking as a custom-made dress or suit. With this in mind, I find myself very intrigued by the concept behind Dine by Design East, an event slated to take place October 30 to November 2, bringing together and celebrating a love of design, cuisine, fashion and art.

Photo: Randal Tomada
The event will unite 10 local chefs and 10 design leaders to create an atmosphere where culinary delights are presented in separate uniquely designed spaces. Teams include Denise Hermanson (dh design inc.) and chef Tahir Salamat (ONYX Dining), Melissa Cummings and Keri Koch (design360inc.) and chef Ludovic Eveno (Agricola Street Brasserie), Jonathan Legate (Jonathan Legate Interior Consultation) and chef David Woodley (Gio) among others. Sappho Griffin and Joe Gallant from Henhouse are two of the many talented design leaders participating this year and teaming up with chef Brad Wammes from Kitchen Door Catering. Griffin says that the atmosphere they create will capture the essence of living on the East Coast.

Photo: Randal Tomada
“For this year’s event, I was inspired by the Maritime kitchen party tradition. A unique and well known characteristic of Maritime hospitality, it imbues vibes of warmth and down home hospitality,” she says. “I wanted to take that happy atmosphere and plant it in my very own fish shack. I have always admired the many shacks dotting our shorelines and have imagined fixing them up into a character filled home, now I get my chance with my 10’x10′ space!”
This year’s Dine by Design East has evolved to become a four-day plethora of events including the gala launch, a lunchtime fashion show, public viewings, weekend workshops and more. Proceeds raised will support design education at NSCAD University through the Amber Harkins Memorial Scholarship Fund. Harkins was the former editor of East Coast Living and passed away at age 40 from cancer. According to Griffin, Dine by Design East is a unique way to emphasize creative collaborations in Nova Scotia and foster homegrown creativity.

Photo: Randal Tomada
“It allows designers and chefs alike to showcase their talent and imagination where the limits are few. Design can affect everyone, whether you are aware of it or not. A well designed room, house or even a tool can give a sense of order, serenity and ease,” Griffin adds. “This event raises funds for design education at Nova Scotia College of Art and Design and continues to support art and design as a fundamental need for a balanced society. Halifax is a hub of creative individuals and NSCAD is an important component in keeping these individuals here in our province.”
This story was originally published in Halifax Magazine.