In a region where architecture usually means sprawling estates and grand glass walls, the focus this evening was on something much smaller. Nineteen birdhouses sat on display, each a miniature reflection of the designers and builders who had created them.
The event, an annual fundraiser called BIRDHAUS, hosted by LaGuardia Design Group, brought together a mix of architects, artisans, and local designers. They were there to support the Madoo Conservancy, a nonprofit based in Sagaponack that looks after a set of historic gardens and runs educational programs.
“We have a great office space and garden perfect for events, so we decided to host a garden party with a twist. We sent invites to 30 architects, artists, artisans, and designers to see if they would participate in a birdhouse contest. 25 responded yes. So the party was on,” explained Chris LaGuardia. “The idea of gathering talented and creative people into a common undertaking was compelling. What happened next really surprised me. The level of creativity and craftsmanship was just outstanding. The display in our garden created a festive atmosphere, drawing about 200 partygoers. Everyone could bid on the birdhouses using their phones, and it was exciting to see the bidding get really heated.”
“Birdhaus was an idea that came from a similar fundraising event held many years ago by the Animal Rescue Fund in East Hampton. I always thought it was a very cool gathering of talent for a good cause. My wife, Jane, and I wanted to have a fundraising event for the Madoo Conservancy in Sagaponack, where she serves on the board.” – Chris LaGuardia
Scott Bluedorn
Tebbens Steel
Stelle Lomont Rouhani
Siamak Samii
Robert Young Architects
OZA Studio
Mojo Stumer AssociatesWhat started as a simple creative prompt had turned into a varied collection of work. Some participants approached the task with a modernist eye, creating sharp, sculptural forms, while others built more whimsical, handcrafted pieces. Firms like Kligerman Architecture & Design, Robert Young Architects, and Workshop/APD joined local artists like Scott Bluedorn and companies like Tebbens Steel to contribute. Despite the difference in styles, each piece felt like a small-scale version of the architectural language these designers use in their daily work.
Merrel Soule
Mabley Handler
LaGuardia Design
Lingerman
Katherine McCoy
Blaze Makoid Architects
Barnes Coy“It’s always nice to see our great community of designers and collaborators come together for a good cause,” continued LaGuardia. “A little competition goes a long way as well to put some pressure on and get the creative juices flowing. It was such a fun time, people are asking if we are going to do it again next year.”
The silent auction raised over $17,000. For Madoo, these funds help the continued maintenance of their gardens and their public programming centered on horticulture and environmental stewardship.
Participants included Kligerman Architecture & Design, Douglas C. Wright Architects, Robert Young Architects, Workshop / APD, Scott Bluedorn, Tebbens Steel, Stelle Lomont Rouhani Architects, Oza Studio, Mojo Stumer Associates, LaGuardia Design Group, Kathrine McCoy Architect, BMA Architects, Merrell Soule Architects, Mabley Handler Interior Design, Precision Stone, Austin Patterson Disston Architects, Siamak Samii Architect PC, Barnes Coy Architects, and ABC Stone.
While the Hamptons are often defined by their ambitious residential projects, the gathering served as a quieter reminder of how the local design community can support the area’s cultural institutions. It was an evening when the most discussed designs weren’t built for people but for birds.
To learn more, visit BIRDHAUS.
