Laundry Room named “Best Room” in 2008 Symphony Designer Showhouse

When the results of last year’s Symphony Designer Showhouse room lottery were announced, some might have been disappointed to have “won” the Laundry Room, but not interior designer Jolene Smith.  It was quite the opposite. She scanned the relatively small and dreary space and thought of all the ways it could be transformed.

Early in the process, Jolene’s plans generated “buzz” among committee members. “Have you seen what’s happening in the laundry room?” they whispered back and forth. Months later, it turned out the public agreed; they selected Jolene Smith’s bright and cheery laundry room as their #1 choice for “Best of Show.”

Jolene, owner of Jolene W. Smith Interiors, Inc., has been designing houses for 16 years. Over the years, she has won numerous awards for interiors created for clients from around the world. Well known for her fresh, sophisticated and sometimes unusual use of color, she’ll put her skills to use in the 2009 Symphony Designer Showhouse, by “bringing the harbor sunset to life” in the Executive Sitting Room.

“The purpose of the Designer Showhouse, first and foremost, is to benefit the wonderful Charleston Symphony Orchestra and provide a taste of this city’s talented designers,” she said.  “I am privileged to have the unique opportunity to create a room that, hopefully, will inspire and delight all those who visit Maison du Pré.”

Months before the opening of the 2009 Symphony Designer Showhouse, Jolene and her team, including Ruth Campbell and Carly Sheen, are not the only ones working at Maison du Pré. A large team of designers, plus their painters and carpenters, are in the process of transforming these charming houses that date back more than 200 years.

At the end of this year’s Showhouse, everyone will wait to see which designer follows in Jolene Smith’s footsteps, taking home the coveted prize for “Best Room” in the house. (2008 room photos by Vin Duffy)

Showhouse 2009...

You will not believe the setting we’ve chosen for this year’s Symphony Designer Showhouse! It’s unlike anything we’ve done before. Perhaps you’ve driven by this intriguing wall on George Street and wondered what lies within, or maybe you’ve been there for a wedding?  The property known as Maison du Pré dates back to 1804 and includes five historic houses surrounding a charming walled garden. One step inside will transport you to Charleston’s earlier days, or to charming inns or cottages you may have visited in England or France.

Mark your calendar now for the Showhouse dates, March 19th through April 19th, when you can see what talented designers have done with this one-of-kind space. But, of course, there will be lots of updates and several preview parties between now and then.  Watch for news as this exciting CSOL® project takes us all on “A Step Back in Time!"

Showhouse ticket prices will be $15 before March 19 (advance sales), and $20 after the home opens. Tickets may be purchased here or at the door. Our fabulous preview party will be held March 18, 2009 and tickets will be $60.



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We are pleased to announce that Tidelands Bank is the official bank of the CSOL® and is a major sponsor of the 2009 Symphony Designer Showhouse. Thank you, Tidelands Bank!

Our official program sponsor for the Showhouse is Charleston Home Magazine.