Junior League plans for immersive design showcase

BINGHAMTON, N.Y. (WIVT/WBGH) – An extravagant fundraiser will transform Kilmer Mansion next year.

The Junior League of Binghamton recently announced its plans for a Designer Showcase. The event will recruit contractors, decorators, and local businesses to work with the Junior league to redesign the mansion into something the Kilmers would’ve lived in in 2025.

Leading up to the grand reveal, there will be immersive events such as a garden party, Q and A sessions, and a 1900’s themed ball.

Proceeds from the events and showcase will go to Junior League to help fight food insecurity in the local community. Specifically, they’ll fund a new Food Recovery and Prepared Food Truck, a collaboration with CHOW, to bring food to those in need.

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President of Junior League Alisha Swietzer says the event will bring the mansion to life in a way people haven’t seen in decades, all while helping out a good cause.

“Not only will we have these beautiful renovations and have designers and contractors and have events where we are employing caterers and DJs and florists, but we also get to be part of those organizations that are putting a stop to hunger and that is just something amazing that will come out of this,” said Swietzer.

Swietzer says the Friends of Kilmer Mansion, an organization created to operate the historic home as an events center, will also benefit.

Among the goals are to remove walls installed on the third floor and recreate the historic ballroom. Removing fluorescent lighting and period inappropriate wallpaper are other priorities.

The Junior League is currently taking bids for the Designer showcase. Contractors can apply from now until July 31. There will also be a designer information night.

For more details, email Alisha at president@juniorleaguebinghamton.org.

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