For Cincinnatians looking to beautify their homes, the Art Design Consultants (ADC) has a new event that could provide that spark of inspiration, says Litsa Spanos, president of the organization. The ADC's new Design Star program puts interior designers to the test by giving them empty rooms that they will turn into themed wonderlands. The program is unique because viewers of the finished products can see "beautifully-designed themed rooms in an art gallery setting," Spanos says. "The experience is enhanced and inspirational because of its floor-to-ceiling views of downtown Cincinnati and its artistic space."

The impetus to create the program was born from Spanos' move to a new, larger gallery, she says. "When I moved into my new location closer the river in downtown Cincinnati, I had the opportunity to truly utilize our incredible 10,000-square-foot space to its full potential. I created a showroom within the gallery where I could bring in some of the best interior designers in the city to show how they bring together art and design," Spanos says.

Although each designer is given the same parameters in terms of a three-dimensional canvas, the varioius themes they select distinguish each room from the others, making the program exciting, she says. The marriage of form and function of the rooms reflects the intersection of art and life - in various capacities. There have been rooms "ranging from a bachelor pad to a sexy bedroom to an echo-friendly office," Spanos says. "The rooms change every two to three months, when there is a highly anticipated unveiling event. The design community, selected jurors, as well as many other professionals come together to drink cocktails, network and view each beautiful room."

These unveilings give attendees insights into the latest art and design trends. Viewers can take note of accessories, use of color and furniture. Additionally, conversation between the artists and guests is an important part of the experience, Spanos says. "Guests are encouraged to talk to the designers and ask questions," she says.

Pictures of the rooms, juror critiques and more information can be found here. The next unveiling event, called "The Art of Entertaining," will be on Thursday, September 15, from 5 to 7 p.m. and is free and open to the public. Those wishing to go but unable to make it on September 15 can also see the room for the next four weeks after that during regular gallery hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.