Knoll and Gensler Collaborate for DIFFA's 2018 Dining By Design; The New York Times Features the Exhibition and Gala

Knoll worked with the architectural and design firm Gensler for the 21st Annual Dining by Design held by Design Industries Foundation Fighting AIDS (DIFFA). Every March, the organization and exhibition gathers both local and international talent to create a dining installation in conjunction with the Architectural Digest Design Show. Held at Pier 92 in New York City, the display will be on view from March 23 – 24 with a Gala Dinner celebrating the initiative on March 26th.

Knoll and Gensler's work for the 2018 DIFFA Dining by Design exhibition.

Knoll and Gensler created a space heavy in both symbolism and visual splendor, crafting a narrative through their work that was true to the cause. The installation, titled “Folds of Hope”, includes a white custom millwork table and twenty white Bertoia Shell Chairs provided by Knoll. Above the white washed elements hangs one thousand colorful and delicate paper cranes, with each fold symbolizing and honoring the 123,887 New Yorkers that are currently living with HIV/AIDS.

This is the second consecutive year that Knoll has worked with Gensler for Dining by Design. In 2017, Knoll and Gensler created a richly hued installation with the theme “Fight for Life for Love”. Complete with Saarinen Tulip Stools, conference tables from DatesWeiser and KnollTextiles upholstered pillows, the installation was also complimented with a statement-making graphic wall design made of FilzFelt.

For the 2017 DIFFA Dining by Design installation, Gensler featured a wall design made of FilzFelt.

Additionally in 2016, Knoll worked with the Rockwell Group on an installation for DIFFA’s Dining by Design. The exhibition included the Piton Stools by Barber and Osgerby juxtaposed against a mural by New York-based artist Jon Burgerman.

The Knoll and Gensler installation was featured alongside the DIFFA Dining by Design 2018 Gala in The New York Times.

Established in 1984 in New York City, DIFFA seeks to raise awareness and donate funds to organizations throughout the nation that act as advocates for those affected by HIV/AIDS. Mobilizing the home and design industries, DIFFA has provided over $43 million since its inception, fighting disease and combating misinformation through intelligent and collaborative design.