Showhouse Home Gets Attention Boost, But Price Drops

Homes that serve as the setting for designer showhouses naturally get a boost of attention, and watching a house coming to life at the hands of designers can be illuminating.

“It was eye-opening, similar to an artist painting on a blank canvas. Each designer was unique and had a different style, transforming their space into something I would have never imagined,” said Hedy Tufo, listing broker with Sotheby’s International Realty for last year’s Hampton Designer Showhouse.

The annual Showhouse invites dozens of interior designers and decorative artists to redesign spaces inside a home and show off their aesthetic style. Guests are then invited to wander through. The multi-day event raises thousands of dollars for Southampton Hospital.

Often, the Showhouse is staged in traditional shingle-style homes, because that is the predominant building style on the East End. However, the organizers decided to try something new when Ms. Tufo reached out to them last year.

The modern-style barn she represents is a new build on 3.4 acres at 233 Old Sag Harbor Road in Bridgehampton. It was built by Christopher Tufo Design and Build, which is owned by Ms. Tufo’s husband. At 6,500 square feet, it has seven bedrooms, including a master with a balcony, 8.5 baths, a great room, formal dining room and five fireplaces. There’s also a finished lower level, pool, pool house and tennis court.

Showhouses can be a strong marketing tool for properties on the market, although nothing is guaranteed. Recently, this modern-style barn had a price cut, one of a handful from when it was first completed last spring. Originally listed for $5.795 million, it has been reduced by $800,000 to $4.995 million.

However, Ms. Tufo insists the event served the home well. “The marketing was great and is still going on,” she said. “It got and is still getting great exposure.”

After the show was dismantled, Ms. Tufo said, they left in place several of the designs, including wallpaper in the foyer, dining room and master bedroom, as well as California Closets that were installed in the master bedroom.

“Being chosen as the 2015 Hampton Designer Showhouse is a significant title and honor that stays with the home,” said Ms. Tufo.