Source: Focus on Home
Summary
Design Appetit, an annual fundraising event for Focus on Home, features over 40 chefs, dozens of designers, and 20 custom vignettes. Founded in 2016 by Joli Sanders, the event aims to support the nonprofit’s mission of helping the newly housed. Initially limited to a luncheon and gala, it expanded to include a public cocktail party and chef’s tasting. In 2026, the event underwent a rebranding led by Erin Cooper and Cooper House to enhance its visibility and brand consistency.
Our Reading
The habit gets a new name.
Big events hide in plain sight.
Designers build tables, not homes.
Charity becomes a stage for creativity.
Under the radar? More like under the table.
Design Appetit: A Dinner Party for the Elite
Design Appetit is an annual event that brings together chefs, designers, and architects to raise funds for Focus on Home. It started in 2016 and has grown to include multiple events over two days. The event features custom-built vignettes, with each table representing a unique design concept. The goal is to create a space where creativity and philanthropy intersect.
From Under the Radar to Over the Top
Initially, the event was limited to a luncheon and a gala, with no individual tickets available. Over the years, it expanded to include a public cocktail party and a chef’s tasting. This growth allowed more people to participate and increased the event’s visibility. The 2026 edition is the 10th anniversary and features a new look and feel, designed to enhance the brand’s identity.
The New Look of Design Appetit
In 2026, Erin Cooper and Cooper House were brought in to rebrand the event. Their goal was to make the event more recognizable and to highlight its impact. The new design aims to create a consistent brand identity while still allowing for creative expression. This change is intended to attract more participants and to showcase the city’s design and culinary talent.
Designers and Chefs in the Spotlight
The event features a mix of established and emerging designers and chefs. Each vignette is a unique creation, often involving collaboration between different professionals. The event has become a platform for showcasing the city’s creative community. It also provides an opportunity for new participants to connect with industry leaders and gain exposure.
Design Appetit: A Unique Experience
Design Appetit is described as a one-of-a-kind event that combines food, design, and philanthropy. It offers a chance for participants to engage with creative professionals and to support a good cause. The event’s success is attributed to its ability to bring together diverse talents and to create a memorable experience for attendees. It is seen as a valuable opportunity for those involved in the design and culinary industries.
