It's time for Bloomingdale's Big Window Challenge!

Window 2 design by: Jane Mount

After working as a visual merchandiser, I was DELIGHTED to read about this challenge. What an awesome experience to engage readers to participate in the art of transforming a window. And not just ANY window: BLOOMINGDALES in NYC!

Window 1 design by: Curtis Robinson

This January, Bloomingdale's is partnering with Apartment Therapy to celebrate the launch of their new Furniture on 5 floor. Together they've challenged three Apartment Therapy readers to take over the flagship store's windows and transform them into three remarkable room sets with furniture from the new collection.

The 2009 Winner designed by: Patrick J. Hamilton

The three big windows will be installed on January 20. Voting will begin right here the following day. Please check out the windows — online or at the Bloomingdale's 59th Street store in New York City. Voting will run from January 21-29. The winning designer will receive a big shout-out here as well as a gift card from Bloomingdale's.

Lauren by Ralph Lauren at Bloomingdales Furniture on 5

How ironic to learn of this today, when today I posted this note on my facebook page:

"Having worked as a visual merchandiser for twenty-five years, I've watched it deteriorate as a profession before my very eyes. Maybe it's the company I was locked into for sixteen of those years or maybe it was my location. Perhaps NEW YORK CITY is still honoring the trade as an art. It is (was) very satisfying to me. I always enJOYed the refreshed look merchandising gave a store.

merchandising & photo by: Lynda Quintero-Davids

As the years past, I also came to the business understanding of its importance: 'You can't keep doing the same thing, and expect a different result.' Doing the same thing equates to having the same 'ole display just sit there. Visual merchandising is a form of entertainment consumers enjoy. Some make an emotional connection (like at Mother's day or Christmas) and some just add the impulse to buy because of its COLOR impact being fresh and new. It's a fun experience: to have a vision, plan, execute, and watch its magical effects on people (when they WANT what you created).

merchandising & photo by: Lynda Quintero-Davids

It needs no zoning permits, just the agreement of your superiors and it offers an ever evolving pallet of change... in short quick bursts. It's amazing how it can trickle into every aspect of your life: creating a FOCAL POINT on a wall, a table, a room, or a photograph. So if you're in the right location (like NYC or London) and desire a well rounded creative experience: GO FOR IT! even if it's for just a little while... :D "

Thanks for stopping by!