At the annual Kips Bay Decorator Show house , I strolled through 16 rooms designed by top decorators, getting my fix of decorating inspiration. Held in a striking Upper East Side mansion, formerly the home of diplomat Jock Whitney, I joined other design enthusiasts who clearly believe that New Yorkers' true obsession is interior design. Celerie Kemble transformed a dark paneled library into a glimmering "Sanctuary for a Siren" and Amanda Nisbet created a charming bedroom highlighted by Marilyn Minter's luscious photo "framing" the bed.

And it is good to know that each $30 ticket helps Kip's Bay support after-school programs for young Bronxites. (closes May 26, 2011).

Celerie Kemble's "Sanctuary for a Siren", photo by Rose Hartman