Recently, we had the pleasure of working in the beautiful Samuel Hamilton Building of the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts.  This building, opened in 2002, houses galleries that are a striking departure from the magnificent galleries located in the original historic building across the street.

PAFA is the oldest museum and school in the country, founded in 1805 by scientist Charles Willson Peale, sculptor William Rush, and other artists and business leaders.  The original building, designed by Frank Furness and George Hewitt, opened in 1876.  It is simply exquisite.

Both the Hamilton and Furness buildings are available for private gatherings after normal museum hours.  They present a rare opportunity to host special events in unique spaces, the likes of which cannot be found anywhere else in the country!  After several hours of preparation, the doors of the Hamilton Building swung open for 700 guests attending the annual BEST OF PHILLY celebration hosted by Philadelphia Magazine.  We filled the various rooms with contemporary furniture, illuminated bars, and striking lounges, each serving up its own particular flavor.  Guests mixed and mingled, moving throughout while noshing on a variety of foods and beverages.  Duffy Catering provided food and service and everything they did was just perfect.  They are a great team and very talented professionals.

Evantine Design has been the recipient of SIX coveted BEST OF PHILLY awards.  We were thrilled to create a fabulous environment to welcome the 2009 winners!  Pick up the August issue of Philadelphia Magazine to discover this year’s winners!

Below are photos of a beautiful wedding we created in which the ceremony was held in the historic and ornate Furness Building, after which the reception took place in the contemporary and sleek Hamilton Building.  Truly, the BEST OF both worlds!