A Blast From the Past - Angels in the Dugout

Here's a fun video by David Oneal from the 2005 Project Playhouse featuring Angels in the Dugout. This was the beginning of HomeAid's partnership with Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. There are two additional playhouses: 2006 A Day At The Big "A" and 2007 What A Playhouse!

2005 Angels in the Dugout

Builder: Taylor Morrison

Architect: JZMK Partners
with Paul DiMeo of 'Extreme Makeover: Home Edition'

Interior Designer: Design Details

Landscape Architect: The Collaborative West

Project Playhouse Turns "20"

Next year Project Playhouse will be 20 years old. Committee Co-Chairs John Racunas and Brandi Uehli are already working on plans to celebrate this very special event - Project Playhouse's 20th Anniversary.

One can only imagine the surprises playhouse builder teams will create. The official grand "Open House" - the only day the public can actually go inside the playhouses - will be spectacular.

There are wonderful memories from the 2010 Project Playhouse Open House. More than a thousand people toured the fantasy village in the Giant Wheel Court at Irvine Spectrum Center®. Many thanks to sponsor Zurich North America for helping HomeAid raise more than $10,000 on opening day.

Lara Scott and Richard Blythe
95.9FM The Fish broadcasted live from the Playhouse Village

Click here to see pictures from the 2010 Open House.

1st Private Premiere Party

2010 Project Playhouse had wonderful "Firsts" and one of the "Firsts" was the Private Project Playhouse Premiere Party. The night before the public Open House more than 100 special guests were the first people to enter the fantasy playhouse village and leisurely tour the seven custom-made playhouses.

Major party sponsors were:

• Collette's Catering Extraordinaire


• Marie Basdakis


• Fusion Sign and Design


• Irvine Spectrum Center®


• The Kalama Brothers


• Landy Family Vineyards

Click here to see pictures from this fabulous party.

2011 Private Premiere Party will be even more fun because it will launch the 20th Anniversary of Project Playhouse. Are you wondering how you can be invited to this exclusive party? Become a 2011 Project Playhouse sponsor. For information on 2011 sponsorship opportunites contact Gina Scott at 949.553.9510 or gina@homeaidoc.org.

Wonderful Memories

The 19th Annual Project Playhouse is over and has left everyone with wonderful memories. With the help of thousands of people (playhouse buyers, builders, sponsors, donors and everyone that bought village tour tickets and opportunity drawing tickets) the 2010 Project Playhouse raised more than $338,000 to support HomeAid Orange County's work to build housing for homeless families and individuals. There are so many people to thank for their incredible generosity. Throughout the coming months events (including sponsors) will be highlighted here weekly. Yes, it will take that long because there are so many generous individuals and companies. Be sure to check back often to see pictures and read about some of the incredible people that made this year's Project Playhouse a success.

For the first highlight here's a link to details and pictures of 2010 Project Playhouse Newport New Moon Auction Party.

Home Again, a music documentary produced by WeedPatch Productions, also, premiered at the event. The six minute film tells HomeAid's story and why HomeAid is dedicated to being a vital role in the elimination of homelessness.




2011 will mark the 20th Anniversary of HomeAid Orange County's Project Playhouse. Plans are already being drawn to make the 20th Annual Project Playhouse a spectacular event. Again, follow this blog for all the current updates.

2010 Grand Award - Second Place was Presented to American Craftsman

American Craftsman received the 2010 Grand Award - Second Place and the coveted Kermit Dorius Award for Best Architectural Design.

Builder: Lucco Custom Construction, Inc.

Partner: Doug Murphy Framing Contractor

Architect: Urban Arena LLC

Landscape Architect: Park West Landscape

Interior Designer: Chameleon Design

Children wanting to have their own place to create imagine and dream can find their retreat in the American Craftsman playhouse. This exquisite little house fully represents the American Arts and Craft Movement style and philosophy that began in the 19th century. Refurbished wood accents the windows, trims and flooring.

This is a playhosue for any season. The new little homeowners will keep comfy and warm in the fall and winter in an an adorable leather chair in front of an electric fireplace. In the spring and summer they can open-wide the NanaWall® bifold doors and play on the balcony or porch.

American Craftsman is built for entertaining and of course children will want to invite their firends over to enjoy the entertainment systems with ONteriors Structured Wiring for the full experience. The wrap around loft allows for plenty of room for slumber parties.

Your children will spend countless hours of fun playing and crating wonderful childhood memories.

Contributors:

All Coast Roofing
Andrew McDaniel

Cal West Landscaping
Canyon Custom Doors
Coastline Waterproof Solutions
Dunn Edwards Paint
Fireside Hearth @ Home
Ganahl Lumber
GreenBee Construction
Hampton Products
James Staab Custom Cabinets and Finish Carpentry
Jim's Electrical Service Inc.
Metro Estates
NanaWall
ONteriors

Residential Wall Systems
Shakertown
The Vintage Wood Floor Company

Tween the House and the Pool Receives 2010 Grand Award - First Place

Opportunity Drawing Playhouse, Tween the House and the Pool received the 2010 Grand Award - First Place in addition to the Secret Garden Award for Best Landscape Design.

You can win this house by purchasing $2 Opportunity Drawing Tickets at Irvine Spectrum Center Giant Wheel Court Guest Services, at the Project Playhouse Village during the weekends or call HomeAid at 949.553.9510. The winning ticket will be drawn on Sunday, September 5 at the Project Playhouse Village. (Need not be present to win.)

Builder: McCarthy Building Companies
Partner: CHOC Children's
Designer: Ryan Ghere
Interior Designer: Laura Zublin of Selleck-Sublin Interior Design
Landscape Architect: Kelly Rasmussen of Rasmussen Design

This playhouse is definitely not your little kid's playhouse. This stylized, 80 square foot playhouse - with an eight foot high open ceiling - provides the perfect hangout for your tween. The yellow and blue decor combines classic comfort with a bit of whimsy to please even the most fickle of tastes. Tweens can relax inside, or lounge on the nodular patio, with nearby mosaic pools perfect for dipping toes.

Framed on two sides by the innovative Nanawall® System, allowing the indoor and outdoor areas to become one. This sophisticated playhouse also features a 32" flatscreen TV and LED lighting controlled by an Apple TV media player.

This modern playhouse was inspired by CHOC's new tower, currently being built on the hospital's main campus and featuring leading design and safety principles, a well as advanced technology.

Contributors:American Trim
Armstrong Garden
Art Manufacturing
Aspen Woodworks
Avalon Design
Azek Building Products, Inc.
Bassman Blaine and Associates
BCI Gramsing and Drywall
Berg Electric
Bobby Taylor - Welder On Wheels
Brian Dawson - IPA
Brightgreen USA
Canyon Insulation
Capparelli/KHS & S Contractors
Chuck Goodman - IPDA
Cosco Fire Protection
Custom Delux Landscape
Driptite
Emser Tile
Furniture Source
Gaf - Elk Steep - Slope Roofing Systems
Garden Art International
Jb Lumber
John Deer Landscapes
Johnson & Turner Paint Co.
Jose Ricardo Finishing
Kenneth McDonald
McCarthy Concrete
Michael Kochan - Studio Mak
Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams
NanaWall® Systems
Pacific Arhitectural Millwork
Pamela Kellogg
Perry Smith
Premier Forest Products Inc.
Progressive Flooring
Red Envelope Designs
Robert Allen Fabrics
Rosetree Designs
Saroyan Lumber - Saroyan Fine Wood Flooring
Schuff Steel
Scott Hutcheon
Seasons + Landscape Architecture Development
Southern Exposure Landscape Management
Stary Technologies
Starytech Audio Video & Lighting
Structural Materials Co.
Tarantino Landscape, Inc.
The Ghere Family
The Piazza Family
Unicorn Delivery
Valley Crest
Vista Professional Outdoor Lighting

Lyon's Triple Crown Saddle Club Receives 2010 Grand Award - Best in Show

Veteran playhouse builder team William Lyon Homes, Inc. receives the prestigious 2010 Grand Award - Best in Show and two additional awards.

The Craftsman Award - Best Builder/Craftsmanship

The Designer Award - Best Interior

Builder: William Lyon Homes, Inc.

Architect: Toblesky Green Architects

Interior Designer: Meridan Interiors

Landscape Architect: FORMA

Inspired by an equestrian theme, William Lyon Homes, Inc. has designed a playhouse that will exemplify the inner horse lover in children and adults everywhere.

This attractive little house is built on tradition and spirit of horsemanship, embodying the values of an Equestrian: Honorable, Skillful and Courageous.

The interior features designer touches through out, crating a fun yet cozy atmosphere. It includes striking stained wood beam ceilings, bead board trim, distressed hardwood floors and charming custom crafted cabinetry. A working sink and luxurious counter top will arouse the little caretaker within. The flat screen TV, DVD, IPod hook up and indoor/outdoor speaker system provide hours of entertainment, while the alluring table and chairs, cozy loft and electric fireplace invite the weary horseman to unwind. It's the ultimate tack room for your budding equestrian.

Honoring a rustic charm, with its handsome batt and board siding, warp around front porch, metal standing seam roof, reminiscent of a rural countryside, the appealing exterior will accentuate any home and garden.

Contributors:

A. L. Norman Jr. Carpentry

Amanda Rieckhof
Architectural Product Resource
Bassman Blaine
Beach Drapery
Brenda Bender
Cal-West Landscape
Custom Furnishings
Daves Interiors
Eden Outsource
El and El Wood Products
Empire Insulation
Folia/Ralph Lauren
Ford Framing
Hampton Products International
Hartmark Cabinets
Interior Specialist, Inc.
International Window Corp
J. Ginger Masonry, L. P.
JWE Corp
Kohler
Kustom Stair and Finish, Inc.
Leonard Enterprises Inc.
Longust
Mannington Mills
Pacific Line
Petersen Dean
Peterson Cleaning
Reed Thomas Co., Inc.
Residential Electric Associates
Showtime Tile

So. Cal Sandbags, Inc.
Sterling Plumbing
Streamline Finishes, Inc.

Time Works
Tinco Sheet Metal
Valley Building Materials
Victory Foam
Walter's Wholesale Electric Co.

Firehouse No. 11 is Awarded the 2010 Most Playful Award

The Most Playful Award is awarded to the most
fun and user-friendly playhouse and that is Firehouse No. 11!

Builder: Lennar Homes

Architect: William Hezmalhalch Architects, Inc.

Interior Designer: Pacific Dimensions

Landscape Architectect: Buccols Landscape Services

Firehouse No. 11 is the ideal playhouse for children who dream of becoming firefighters. This wonderful replication provides children with a fun and visually stimulating place to play while helping to reinforce the positive image of firefighters, as role models and valuable members of the community, our "Hometown Heroes." Playing in a firehouse also helps ressure children that a firehouse is a safe haven.



Contributors:
Action Iron Works
Astro Electric
Avia Industries, Inc.
Champion Windows & Doors
Cuda Electronics
Direct Construction
Holiday Carpet & Floor Covering Co.
JCS Finish Carpentry
Lennar Associates
Select Build
Sherwin Williams Paint
Southland Lighting

Nantucket Beach Cottage Receives the Mirror Image Award

The Mirror Image Award is presented to the Nantucket Beach Cottage for its most realistic and authentic design.

Builder: Matt White Custom Homes

Partner: Kim and Mike Robertson

Architect: Bassenian Lagoni Architects

Interior Designer: Jeraldine's Interiors

Landscape Architect: Jim and Karyl Neeld - Teserra

The nautical themed Nantucket Beach Cottage will remind you of stunning days on the Eastern Shore The cottage is surrounded by a pristine sandy beach which invites little feet to feel the soft sand, comb for seashells, beach glass and other treasures. Bring a picnic and let the sound of the sea refresh your spirit.

The Nantucket Beach Cottage is the perfect playhouse for a child's imagination to run wild. Inside the cottage a child will find plenty of space to paint, draw or build whatever their creativity imagines. A beautiful day at the beach awaits any child here at the Nantucket Beach Cottage.

Contributors:

Custom Weatherstrip, Inc.

Capistrano Crane Services, Inc.

Ganahl Lumber

Murray Scott Construction

Orange County Stone

Oscar Flores Hardwood Floors

Villa Pacific Contractors

Wilson Painting and Finishing

"7" Days Left to Vote for the People's Choice Award

Do you want your favorite playhouse to win the coveted People's Choice Award? Be sure to vote online today. Voting closes on Thursday, August 26 at 5pm.


2009 People's Choice Award Winner

Forever Fashionable Beach House
Builder: Matt White Custom Homes
Partner: Ransom Group, Ltd.
Architect: Hove Design Alliance, Inc.
Interior Designer: Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandizing (FIDM)
Landscape Architect: Lifescapes International, Inc.

OC Family Children's Book Editor Visits Project Playhouse

Yesterday was an exciting day at Project Playhouse. OC Family and Inland Empire Family Children's Book Editor, Kristen Schott came to the Project Playhouse Village for Story Time. With Choco Bear of CHOC Children's she reviewed the delightful book Creaky Old House, by Linda Ashman and Illustrated by Michael Chesworth.

2010 People's Choice Award - Ocean Adventure Lab

The people have spoken and Ocean Adventure Lab is awarded the 2010 People's Choice Award. In addition Ocean Adventure Lab was recipient of the Spirit Award for best team spirit and community involvement and the Roger Seitz Award for best modern design.

Builder:

Turner Construction Company

Partner:

Pro Repro

Architect, Electrical Engineering, Interior Designer and Landscape Architect:

LPA Inc.

Interior Builder:

Tangram Interiors

Everything about it points to learning, having fun and caring for the environment - both at sea and on land. Ocean Adventure Lab is definitely more playhouse than dollhouse.

Packed with ocean experiments and books from the Ocean Institute in Dana Point, this eco-friendly playhouse has a wave tank and even its own source of renewable energy. The Suntech Black Label photovoltaic solar modules on the roof of the Ocean Adventure Lab are aesthetically pleasing and energy efficient - a rare combo. Through this playhouse, homeowners can get a taste of actual photovoltaic panels and what they might look like at their house.

To pronounce and celebrate the Ocean Adventure Lab's greenness, the U. S. Green Building Council (USGBC) - Orange County Chapter presented this net zero playhouse with an Honorary Certification for its application of LEED principles and design and construction practices. Click here to see the Honorary Plaque Ceremony .

Young environmentalists will be proud to own a playhouse with sustainable features like panels and a sliding door comprised of Trex Accents, which give the appearance of wood without the inconvenience of splinters. To learn even more about the Ocean Adventure Lab go to http://ourprojectplayhouse.com/

Contributors:

Acro Energy

AZ Metal Manufacturing

Bravo Sign and Design

California New Craft Products, Inc.

California Sheet Metal Works

Darco Engineering

DMA Greencare Contrcating, Inc.

EJ Growers

Eppink of California, Inc.

Frankly Made, Inc.

Fuscoe Engineering, Inc.

Giroux Glass, Inc.

Golden State Framers

Green Metal USA, llc.

John Jory Corporation

Laird Plastics

Laminate Creations by Hand

Lawrence B. Bonas Co.

Morrow-Meadows Corporation

Murray Company Mechanical Contractors

Ocean Institute

Ortco, Inc.

Performance Lighting Systems/Bruck Lighting

Plant's Choice Inc.

Preferred And Associates

Prudential Lighting Products/MP Lighting

Rountree Glass

S & R Metals Inc.

Saddleback Waterproofing

Southwest Boulder & Stone

Tangram Studio

Trex Company

USGBC Orange County

Villa Root Barrier

W. H. Steele Co., Inc.

Walter Pouchot

2010 Imagination Award Goes to TradePartners™ Dreams and Memories

A child's fantasy playhouse - TradePartners™ Dreams and Memories receives the 2010 Imagination Award for Most Creative and Unique playhouse.

Builder: Shea Homes
Architect: Ed Woerth
Interior Designer: Interior Lifestyles
Landscape Architect: Land Care Inc.

The Shea Playhouse Builder Team has created a playhouse where a child can let their dreams soar to amazing heights in this colorful imaginary airborne house. Even without thousands of balloons to carry it, the house will be an imaginary mode of transportation. And a journey will leave any child with wonderful memories.

Inside the house, the new little playhouse owner's travels will be enhanced by a host of kid-friendly comforts and conveniences, including a flat screen TV, Play Station gaming system, working fireplace, distressed hardwood floors, granite counter tops with stainless steal working faucet and decorative fixtures.

This exquisite playhouse will inspire the imagination of children giving them a treasure trove of dreams and memories. They may even be inspired to write their own adventure book recounting all of their wondrous experiences.

Contributors:
American Trim
Amerisink
Architectural Color Design
Argos Home Systems, Inc.
Builders Carpet
Caliber Interiors
Crown Custom Hardware
Delta Faucets
DRI Residential Roofing
e4 Control Systems
Fireside Hearth and Home
Hakes Sash And Door
Hardrock Tile & Marble
Hardwood Creations
Kwikset
Lamps Plus
Maxim Lighting
Mega Western Sales
New Legend
Outdoor Dimensions
Quality Interiors
Ram-Mar Painting, Inc.
RCR Plumbing
Reed Thomas Grading
Southcoast Cabinet
St. Anne School
T McGee Electric
Team SheaHomes
Tri-West, Ltd.
The Mop-Its
TWR Framing

LPA's Project Playhouse Mocumentary

This is fun video produced by the incredibly creative LPA team. Filmed by Greg Magnus of GMbC Media

Ocean Adventure Lab Honorary Plaque Ceremony

Congratulations! Tuesday, August 10 the U. S. Green Building Council Orange County Chapter presented an honorary plaque to the Ocean Adventure Lab, built by Turner Construction, LPA Inc., ProRepro and Tangram Interiors.

1st Project Playhouse TweetUp Big Success

On Thursday, August 5, nearly 100 of Orange County's social media attended the first Project Playhouse TweetUp. Rochelle Veturis @RochelleVeturis and Ted Nguyen @TedNguyen led the efforts to promote the event. Click here to see Ted's coverage.

In addition to touring the seven incredible playhouses, Twitter Guests enjoyed tasty refreshments from the following generous donors:

Marie Basdakis
BoardWalk Ice Cream Co., at Irvine Spectrum Center
Colette's Catering
Kelly's Coffee and Fudge Factory
Veggie Grill

The outstanding team of McCarthy "Heart Hats" volunteers made sure the evening ran smoothly and greeted all the guests while selling opportunity drawing tickets for the chance to win their magnificent playhouse - Tween the House and the Pool.

Many thanks to all the social media leaders for using their influence to promote Project Playhouse.

Bob Decastro - Good Day LA Tours Playhouse Village

Bob Decastro tours Project Playhouse on Thursday July 29th, 2010

What a day!!!!

Project Playhouse is open and more than 600 people toured the seven adorable playhouses. To add to the fun, 95.9 FM The Fish Lara Scott and Big Wave Dave broadcasted live from the Playhouse Village.

It was a great day. Pictures will be online soon.

If you ever wondered why playhouse builders participate in Project Playhouse and support our efforts to build homes for homeless families click here.

Opened to Rave Reviews!

More than 100 people attended the Private Project Playhouse Premeire Party at Irvine Spectrum Center tonight. All the playhouse were a hit!

Collette's Catering Extraordinare provided a splendid cheese and fruit display everyone enjoyed. The music was wonderful and cast an incredible atmoshphere across the Project Playhouse Village. Promise to have pictures and the name of the band in the blog next week.

WeedPatch Recordings previewed their music documentary - Home Again. See it on You Tube. You'll discover why so many people work so hard to make Project Playhouse a success. The full documentary will premiere on September 10 at the New Newport Moon Project Playhouse Auction Party.

It was a fabulous evening!

In less then 24 hours the 19th annual Project Playhouse will open to the public. Click here to get a sneek preview of all the 2010 playhouses.

Excitment is Building at Project Playhouse

Could it have been more exciting today in the Project Playhouse Village at Irvine Spectrum Center? Bob Decastro from Good Day LA, Erika Chavez from The Orange County Register and David Heath from Western Exposure were all at Project Playhouse today.

Open House sponsored by Zurich is in just "2" days. What's happening at Open House?

• LIVE Broadcast with 95.9 FM The Fish personalities Lara Scott and Big Wave Dave
• face painting and balloon artist
• AND this is the ONLY day the playhouses are open to go inside and see the incredible interiors of the seven custom-made playhouses

Tickets: $10 per person (age 3 and under FREE)

Gates Open: Noon to 6pm

Where: Irvine Spectrum Center's Giant Wheel Court

Under the Lights of Irvine Spectrum Center's Ferris Wheel Project Playhouse Comes to Life

Last night, at first look in the staging area at Irvine Spectrum Center the playhouses of the 2010 Project Playhouse looked interesting. Box shape structures in a variety of colors lined up to be placed in what will be their temporary home for six weeks. Something amazing happened after they were precisely positioned in the Giant Wheel Court. These little fantasy houses started to possess their unique characteristics. Under the lights of the Ferris wheel they started to come to life.

Very early this morning landscape architects and interior designers added their talents and the Project Playhouse Village became a reality.

Be the first to see the Lyon's Triple Crown Saddle Club, Nantucket Beach House, Firehouse 11 and four other incredible playhouses at the Open House on Saturday, July 31. Go to http://www.projectplayhouse.org/ for all the details.

It Happens Tonight!!!

Yes the time is here! Tonight after all the shoppers at Irvine Spectrum Center have gone to their homes all the stores are closed and the center is almost silent "7" playhouses will roll into the Giant Wheel Court. Marc Fabre, volunteer extraordinaire - will lead the teams of playhouse builders installing their incredible creations. It is so exciting!

Here's a preview of the names of the playhouses:

TradePartners Dream and Memories - Shea Homes

Ocean Adventure Lab - Turner Construction, design firm LPA, ProRepro and Tangram Interiors

Firehouse No. 11 - Lennar

American Craftsman - Lucco Custom Construction, Inc.

Triple Crown Saddle Club - William Lyon Homes

Nantucket Beach Cottage - Matt White Custom Homes, Inc.

OPPORTUNITY DRAWING PLAYHOUSE

Tween the House and the Pool - McCarthy Building Companies in partnership with CHOC Children's

Do you want to see these fantastic playhouses up close and personal?

Do you want to go inside the playhouses?

Open House is Saturday, July 31. Village gates are open noon to 6pm. Tickets are $10 per person (age 3 and under are free). This is the only day you can go inside the playhouses. Go to http://www.projectplayhouse.org/ for the details.

Announcing -2010 Opportunity Drawing Playhouse - "Tween the House and the Pool"

Builder: McCarthy Building Companies in partnership with CHOC Children's

Architect: Ryan Ghere

Interior Design: Laura Zublin of Selleck-Zublin Interior Design

Landscape Architect: Kelly Rasmussen of Rasmussen of Design, Inc.

The 2010 Opportunity Drawing Playhouse is -Tween the House and the Pool!!!! This "smart" playhouse features colorful sound activiated LED lighting that can be controlled with an iPad or iPod as well as flat screen TV, sound system and full wiring for your computers. The highlight of this special playhouse is the transparent glass door system donated by NanaWall. Installed on two sides of the playhouse these beautiful doors bring the outdoors, in and the indoors, out for the very lucky new owners.

AND anyone could win this custom-made playhouse by purchasing a $2 opportunity drawing ticket. Sales from the opportunity drawing wll benefit HomeAid Orange County and CHOC Children's effort in supporting their mission of serving children and families in the community. Tickets will be on sale at the Project Playhouse Village.

Do you know which volunteer group has volunteered for 18 years?

If you guessed the Society of Design Administrators (SDA) Orange County Chapter - you are correct!!! Since Project Playhouse began in 1992 this outstanding group of volunteers has managed the afternoon shift of Project Playhouse on every closing day. These dedicated volunteers have sold tickets, greeted visitors, shared with guests about the playhouses and told the HomeAid story to thousands of people.

The SDA, which was started more than 50 years ago is a national organization affiliated with the American Institute of Architects (AIA). They were created to promote the exchange of information and ideas and to educate its members in the related disciplines of design firm administration.

We are deeply grateful to SDA for their support and dedication every year working hard to make Project Playhouse a success. They've played a major role in helping HomeAid raise more than $5 million to build housing for homeless families.

SDA will be back! They will be greeting all the Project Playhouse visitors in the afternoon on the closing day, Sunday, September 5. Be sure to stop by and thank them for their incredible volunteer service in support of helping those in need in our community.

7 Days Until Open House

Project Playhouse

opens in "7" days at

Irvine Spectrum Center.

Saturday, July 31

Noon - 6pm

Ticket Price: $10 (age 3 and under free)

Includes:

Entrance into a fantasy village of seven adorable custom made playhouses.

Face Painting - Balloon Artist

Broadcasting LIVE

95.9 FM The Fish Radio Personalities - Lara Scott and Big Wave Dave

Remember: This is the ONLY DAY you can go inside the playhouses.

Thank you to our Open House Sponsor Zurich North America

Guess which playhouse builder team has participated for 18 years?

William Lyon Homes - and they're back. For the 19th annual Project Playhouse William Lyon Homes will be showcasing an equestrian themed playhouse, Triple Crown Saddle Club.

The English countryside stable features stained wood beam ceilings, distressed hardwood floors, custom crafted cabinetry and an electric fireplace. Also included are a flat screen TV, DVD, IPod hook up and indoor/outdoor speaker system which will meet all the entertainment dreams of the new playhouse owner.

William Lyon Homes has donated their one-of-a-kind playhouses every year because they are commited to making a difference in the communties where they build.

Pictured here is Casita de Lyon from the 2004 Project Playhouse.

Click here to see Tara Morenc, Director of Purchasing for William Lyon Homes share why they have been a partner with HomeAid for so many years.

Who are the most important people involved in Project Playhouse?

Volunteers!!

Volunteers are a part of every aspect of Project Playhouse. They're in the background planning events and helping recruit sponsors and donations. They design and build playhouses. Every weekend volunteers are at Irvine Spectrum Center's Giant Wheel Court eager to welcome visitors to Project Playhouse. HomeAid is grateful to all the volunteers who generously give their most valuable asset - their time - to help raise funds to build "homes" for homeless families.

State Street Volunteers annually participate in Project Playhouse. Every Friday beginning on August 6, from noon to 4p.m. dedicated members of the State Street's Global Outreach volunteer program will be at the Project Playhouse Village to welcome visitors.

If you can smile, greet guests, share HomeAid's story with Project Playhouse visitors you are a great candidate to be a Project Playhouse volunteer. Click here to get request information.

It's Here! The First Project Playhouse Tweetup

Anaheim Ducks at Project Playhouse

Sports teams are a natural fit at Project Playhouse. First the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim and next the 2007 Stanley Cup Champions - Anaheim Ducks joined Project Playhouse.

In 2007 Anaheim Ducks Power Playhouse built by Windstar Communities with architect JZMK Partners; interior designers Anaheim Ducks, JZMK Partners, and Photomation. Landscape artchitect Urban Arena added the finishing touches.

The miniature Honda Center was a fan favorite, especially with Craig Briggs, Remedy Blinds President. Craig a HomeAid donor and volunteer is pictured here with Wild Wing.

Ducks Hockey Hideway was showcased in 2008. Built by John Laing Homes with architect and landscape architect Urban Arena. The fun interior was designed by Canvas Interior Design. In the video, Jennifer Walker, Anaheim Ducks Community Manager takes you on a tour of this incredible custom made playhouse.

Who benefits from the funds raised from Project Playhouse?

Over 18 years Project Playhouse has raised more than $5 million. These funds have helped HomeAid Orange County build or renovate 47 "homes" for hundreds of homeless families and individuals in our community. "Homes" specifically designed and built to meet the needs of 25 non-profit organizations supplying food, clothes, education/job skill training and shelter for homeless men, women and children.

A few of the organizations are:

Precious Life Shelter that serves homeless pregnant adults and their infants.

The Teen Project a new non-profit agency providing a home for homeless emancipated foster youth.

Fullerton Interfaith Emergency Services provides emergency food, transitional housing and other support services for homeless families.

When you support HomeAid's Project Playhouse you're helping homeless families and individuals rebuild their lives.

Do you know the highest amount paid for a playhouse?

This is a popular question. Here's the answer: $75,000 in 2001 for Tom Sawyer House.

Builder: David Mulvaney & Company, Inc.

Architect: Richard Krantz, AIA

Interior Designer: Linda Mulvaney Designs and Karen Butera, Inc.

Landscape Architect: Greg Wallace

Contributors:

Associated Building Supply, Inc., Array Builders, Beach Plumbing, Brad & Pamela Martin, Bruce Hardwood and Laminated Floors, Armstrong Company, Builder Specialities Unlimited, Captain Caffine/Specialty Coffee Services, Carroll Family, Mr and Mrs. Lee Colt, Daniel Pehkoff Construction, Derek and Shannon Roland, Robert Derham-Ganahl Lumber Company, Dora Brigham Interiors-Sally Taylor, Doug and Cindy Gillmore, Frazee Paint Company, Guillermo Castillo Painting, Instant Jungle and the Wallace Family, Jacqueline Nicolas-French Hardware, Kuno's Grading, Marble Tech, Mesa Drywall, Montoya's Custom Construction, Fredy Moaza, Brennen Mulvaney, New Wave Tile, Newport Trading & Antique Co., Orco Construction Supply, Orpac Millwork Products, Pacific Window and Pressure Washing, R & B Electric, Rupert Briggs Sheet Metal, Inc. Schmid Insulation, Scott Allen Hardwood Floors, Signature Millworks, Steven Shelly Roofing, Surface Matters, Theommes Cabinet Makers, UNI-LITE and the Vanags Family, Weatherholt & Castor, White Cap Industries, Ysidro Martinez Construction Clean-Up

Summer is always a popular theme at Project Playhouse

June and July gloom is over and summer is finally here in Orange County. With temperatures rising everyone is at the beach. No matter what the weather is like, beach theme playhouses have always been popular at Project Playhouse.

In 2004, Seaside Cottage was showcased. This adorable beach house was built and decorated by the Orange County Sheriff's Department with architect Bassenian Lagoni Architects. Landscape architect Urban Arena created the fantasy beach side that made you feel like you were steps away from the ocean.

Contributors:

A.L.L. Roofing & Building, Materials Corp., AB & B Electronics Supply, B & C Custom Hardware & Bath, Becker Surfboards, Build-a-Bear, Builders Finish Supply, Castle Tile Inc., Costa Mesa Foam & Fabrics, Inc. GoldenWest Custom Shutters, Hardwood & Tile Discounters, Kids & Cottages, Moultrup Finish Hardware, Old California Lantern Company, Sherwin Williams, Target, Teddy Bears & Tea Cups, TM Cobb, Tyvek Weatherization Systems, Valley Building Materials, Walters Wholesale Electric Co., We-R-Fabrics, Windor Windows

How do you get a playhouse into Irvine Spectrum Center?

It's interesting how many times we're asked are the playhouses built on site? Do you take them apart to move them in?

Here's the answer: In the dark of night, after all the shoppers have gone home, a fantastic team of volunteers led by super star volunteer Marc Fabre move the playhouses onto Irvine Spectrum Center's Giant Wheel Court using trucks and fork lifts. The volunteers work into the early morning hours to make sure the playhouses are set securely onto their locations. Before sunrise the next crew is on site. Landscapers (really they're magical artists) turn a flat cement surface into tropical gardens, miniature farm yards and ocean front landscapes to create the fantasy Project Playhouse Village.

Click here to see more pictures.

Who is building a playhouse?

The 2010 Project Playhouse Builder Teams are hard at work putting the finishing touches on their custom playhouses. We're receiving all the details and information on the hundreds of contributors who have donated their time, talents and resources to build seven incredible playhouses. Their commitment and generosity will help raise funds in support of HomeAid's mission to build and maintain dignified housing where homeless families and individuals can rebuild their lives.

Thank you to our 2010 HomeAid Project Playhouse Builder Teams

Lennar

Lucco Custom Construction with Urban Arena

McCarthy Building Companies in partnership with CHOC Children's

Shea Homes in partnership with Trade Partners

Turner Construction, design firm LPA, ProRepro and Tangram Interiors

Matt White Custom Homes

William Lyon Homes with Toblesky Green Architects

Hear directly from our partners why they support HomeAid's efforts to build homes for homeless families.

Playhouse Interiors - Wow!

We have shown you the exterior of a tea pot, baseball, sports shack and even a pirates hideway - but not the interiors. What do you think the interiors include? Here's the luxurious TradePartners Painted Lady showcased in the 2006 Project Playhouse. The fabulous interior designer was Interior Lifestyles, Inc.

Builder: Shea Homes

Architect: Wesseln Constuction

Contributors: Atlas Lumber, Anderson Brothers Artistic Iron, Architectural Color Design, Architectural Product Resource, Argos Home Systems, Builder's Carpet, Cal Pac Sheet Metal, Inc. Doorway Manufacturing, DRI Residential, Hardrock Tile & Marble, Hardwood Creations, JWE Corporation, L/G Wood Products, Masterpiece Stained Glass, Milgard Windows, New Legend, Paragon Schmid Building Materials, Quality Plastering, Ram-Mar Painting, Reed Thomas, Reliable Lumber, Richard-Marshall, Schamber Electric, Schetne Drywall, Sterling Plumbing, Southcoast Cabinet, The Mop-its, TWR Enterprises, Wal-Mart, Walters Wholesale Electric.

Tea Party Playhouse is a Perfect Fit For Teapot Collector

Playhouse bidders buy playhouses for a variety reasons. One unique buyer bought Presley's Tea Party to add to his collection of more than 3,000 teapots.

1998 Presley's Tea Party

Builder: Presley Homes

Architect: JZMK Partners

Contributors: A. L. Norman Jr. Carpentry, ABC Child Care Center, Anaheim Screen and Glass, Barrett Wrought Iron Fence and Supply, Bold Electric, Inc., Colette Passini - Artist, Edge Metalworks, Inc., Hand's Ace Hardware, Heed Roofers, Inc. Hi-Tech Foam Products, inc., Mellon and Associates, Mike Schienker Masonry, Leonard's Flooring, Orange stair and Millwork, Inc. Outdoor Dimenions, Preferred Framing, Inc. R. C. Wendt Painting, Riverside Stone products, Royal Concrete, Stauffer's Landscaping, Inc., T.C.O. Inc., Topia International Landscape Architecture, Two's Company Interiors, Village Nursery, Inc.

Baseball Greats Have a History With Project Playhouse

Thousands of fans are enjoying the MLB All-Star FanFest 2010 and are excited to greet many of their baseball heroes. Did you know four baseball legends have a history with Project Playhouse?

Garret Anderson

Chuck Finley

Shawn Green

Tim Salmon

Each of these baseball "greats" hold the prestigious title of past Project Playhouse Judges.

21 Days Until Open House

The count down is on - in just 21 days the 2010 Project Playhouse opens to the public.

Saturday, July 31

Noon - 6pm

Irvine Spectrum Center - Giant Wheel Court

The only day you can go inside the playhouses!

$10 donation per person

Age 3 and under FREE

Click here for more details

See the gallery of pictures from the 2009 Project Playhouse Open House.

Angels Baseball at Project Playhouse

Baseball fans - as you're getting ready for the All-Star Game here's more Project Playhouse trivia. Did you know the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim have had playhouses at Project Playhouse? They've had three playhouses beginning in 2005.

2006 A Day At The Big "A"

Builder: Lennar Homes

Architect: Bassenian/Lagoni

Interior Designer: Chameleon Designs

Landscape Architect: The Collaborative West

Contributors: CBR Electric, Cranshaw Lumber, Crown Custom Hardware, Custom Curves, Ford Framing Co. Inc., Mesa Weatherstripping Company, Mission Sheet Metal, Nova Innovative Systems Designs, Oak Leaf Landscape, Inc., Pro-Coat Systems, Inc., R.C. Wendt Painting, Robert Lunetta Company, Storyland Studios, Pace Engineering, Thoreen Designs, Trimco Finish, Inc., Ultra-Wall, Inc., Vintage Design Incorporated, Walldesign, Inc., Western Shower Door Inc.

NEW Project Playhouse Website

We have a new website http://www.projectplayhouse.org/

• You can find information on upcoming events.


• See a list of all our incredible sponsors and get information on how you can join this impressive group.


• Check out our Social Networking page. See our Facebook live feed.


• Vote for your favorite playhouse online.


• Meet the fantastic volunteer committee that bring Project Playhouse to life.
  
  

2010 Project Playhouse Co-Chairs: Brad Coleman and Brandi Uehli with Playhouse Builder Michael Lucariello

The People Have A Voice

Annually, Project Playhouse fans vote to select their favorite playhouse. The 2006 People's Choice Award receipient was Wahoo's Xtreme Sports Shack
Builder: Pulte Homes
Architect: Urban Arena
Interior Design: Pulte Homes Team
Landscape Architect: Urban Arena Landscape Architecture
Contributors: Aloha Airlines, Ashton Management Group, Barr Lumber - Cedar Valley, CBR Electric, Christine Lee - Wahoo's Fish Taco, CPC Drywall, Ed Lee - Wahoo's Fish Taco, Executive Plumbing, Guy Evans - Everett, Hardwood Creations, Jared Hendricks, Jayer Manufacturing, Josh Hoyer - Quicksilver, Leonard Roofing, Milgard Windows, Ortega Construction, Pro Coat, Quality Plastering, RII Painting, Select Build, SST, Temeka Advertising, Thorton Steel & Iron Works, Wing Lam - Wahoo's Fish Taco

How heavy can a playhouse be?

500 lbs. ? 1,500 lbs.? 5,000 lbs. ? Generally, playhouses weigh approximately 4,000 lbs. The heaviest playhouse was the 2001 Pirate's Hideaway. It topped the scale at 13,350 lbs.

Builder:

Tony Valentine Construction and KWC Construction

Architect:

Brio Jeannette Architecture

Interior Designer:

Lisa Henry at Henry-West Designs, Inc.

Landscape Architect: Dan Stewart at Stewart & Associates

Contributors: Bill Anderson, Genesis Audio, Applied Artiestry, John Bartolo-Bartolo Window Designs, Boulderscape, Inc., Tom Castle - Piccadenti & Waggoner, Boyer Company, Todd Vreager - Light Concern, Custom Metal Works, Mark and Heather David, Bill Drysdale - Drysdale Studio, Draper Drywall, Elite Pools & Spas, Hector Estrada, Fiberglass Fabricators, Gaetano Hardwood Floors, Dee Hill - Cameron Marketing, G. S. Haines Construction Co., Ganahl Lumber Company, Mark Hateley, Lutes Decking Company, Jodie Macaluso - Melissa Lighting, Terry Lucero, Jim Macket, Paul & Sue MacMillin, Minneys Yacht Surplus, Ms. Lori Naritoku, Gary O'Connor, Paul and Zillah Reddam, Pacific Coast Labor Resources, Thomas Ramirez, Darryl E. Rhodes Painting, Roches Excavating, Rubert Briggs Sheetmetal Inc., Shaun Shisler - S and S Interiors, Southern Staff & Stone, Stovall Company, Swim Manufacturing, Inc., Taco Bell Corp., Taylor Vandrak, Tempo Carpentry, Terrance Landscape, Carol Westervelt - Westervelt Fine Art, Robert Williams.

Here's a look at a playhouse "before" and "after."

BEFORE

2001 Project Playhouse

Playtime on Broadway

Builder: The Olson Company

Architect: William Hezmalhalch Architects, Inc.

Interior Designer: Carole Eichen Interiors

Landscape Architect: Urban Arena Architecture Landscape & Planning

Contributors: Accurate Awnings, Ackerson Harware, ANP Lighting, Capital Drywall, CM School Supply, Cross State Electric. Dal Tile, De Pinho Roofing, Delta Window Coverings, Designers Workroom, Fabricut, Frazee Paint, Gateway Plastering, Glass Crafters, Higgins Brick Co., LMI, Orange Coast Iron Work, Outdoor Dimensions, Pacific Masonry, Paragon Insulation, Pro Coat Systems, San Diego Mirror & Windows, Select Finish Carpentry, Steve Wolff & Associates, Superior Framing, T. C. Landscape, Theme Accessories,

Vintage Design, Walters Lighting, Yoshi Nursery

AFTER

Has Project Playhouse Been on Television?

Yes. Project Playhouse has been covered by national and international media. The event was showcased in Spain!

HomeAid Orange County's Project Playhouse has been featured on many of Southern California's leading news broadcasts.

Here's a link to a KNBC's Fritz Coleman's coverage in 2007.

Check out Gina Silva from Fox TV Good Day LA's coverage in 2009.

How Many Playhouses Have Been Built for Project Playhouse?

From 1992 - 2009 builders, architects, interior designers, landscapers and hundreds of specialty contractors have built "179" magical playhouses that have given many children countless hours of joy. Most importantly, funds raised from village tour tickets, opportunity drawing tickets and the auction have helped HomeAid build or renovate 47 housing developments for homeless men, women and children across Orange County. Homes that are helping hundreds of homeless families become self-sufficient and giving them the skills to live independently.

Here's one of the houses that was showcased in 2002.

2002 American Pie

Builder - Pulte Homes

Designers: Urban Arena and Creative Design Consultants

Contributors: Cal-West, Capstone Studios, Crowthers-Prentiss Corp., Dimenion 3 Digital Productions, Executive Plumbing, Fireplace Distribuors, JPS Surface Solutions, Katle Stair & Finish, Inc. Lazer Electric, Merillat Corporation, Milgard Manufacturing, Inc., New Legend, Peterson Dean, Preferred Framing, Quality Plastering, RII Painting, Trimco Finish, Walter Wholesale and Western Door

Where is the Project Playhouse Village?

If you answered Fashion Island in Newport Beach - sorry your answer is incorrect.

Project Playhouse moved to Irvine Spectrum Center in 2009. AND we're back!!! HomeAid's 19th Annual Project Playhouse opens to the public at Irvine Spectrum Center in the Giant Wheel Court on Saturday, July 31.

On August 1, 2009 Irvine Councilmember Dr. Steven Choi cut the ceremonial ribbon and welcomed more than a thousand Project Playhouse fans to the 18th Annual Project Playhouse.

Click here to see pictures from the 2009 Open House.
Go to projectplayhouse.org to get the details on this year's Open House.

Why Do Our Partners Help Build Playhouses?

Our partners dedicate hundreds of hours generously donating their resources and sharing their talents in support of HomeAid. View the video produced by Anna Romiti, Vice President, Ripe Orange Inc. to hear the following individuals tell their Project Playhouse stories.

• Tara Morenc - Director of Purchasing, Southern California Division, William Lyon Homes


• Cindy Kennedy - President, ProRepro


• Rod Plunkett - Shea Homes


• Greg Janes - Vice President, Senior Business Consultant, Wells Fargo Business Banking


• Trevor Lawton - Project Engineer, McCarthy Building Companies, Inc.


• Kim Kelly - President, Hampton Products International Inc.


• Scott Larson - Executive Director, HomeAid Orange County

Click to see the video: Why Our Partners Help Build Homes

Turn a Playhouse Into a Home

In 1992 HomeAid Orange County launched Project Playhouse - a unique fundraiser to benefit HomeAid's housing development program. Hundreds of volunteers have generously worked thousands of hours designing and building fantasy playhouses which have helped provide homes for hundreds of homeless families.

Saturday, July 31 the gates of the 2010 Project Playhouse will open to the public at Irvine Spectrum Center. It will seem like they magically appear, but there are so many people involved in creating the incredible village.

Every day on this blog we'll share an interesting fact or introduce you to some of the wonderful individuals that make Project Playhouse come to life and help raise funds to provide homes for homeless families.

Pictured here is Hope Cottage built in 1992 by William Lyon Homes and designed by Joe DiGardo-Hales/Langston Architects. Wait until you see their 2010 playhouse - it is fantastic!

Gina Scott & Keith Hempel on 2nd Funniest Podcast with Justin Worsham

Justin Worsham describes himself as a good husband, father and a jerk. And now he's a fan of Project Playhouse. Justin, a professional comedian and an incredibly funny podcaster, interviewed Gina Scott and LPA architect, Keith Hempel about their work on HomeAid's 2010 Project Playhouse. They discuss why Keith became an architect (great story about The Brady Bunch), how Gina took home a homeless woman and now works for HomeAid AND of course how LPA has designed a net-zero playhouse for Project Playhouse. Educational and very funny!

2010 Sponsorship & Underwriting Opportunities

The 19th Annual Project Playhouse is coming to Irvine Spectrum Center on July 30 running through September 10, 2010.

Fantastic sponsorship opportunities are available.

Click here to see the details.

Click here to download the response form.

Opportunities for Builders to Be a Part of the 19th Annual Project Playhouse

We're inviting builders to be a part of the 2010 Project Playhouse®. Our signature fundraiser is a six week event that draws millions of visitors to Irvine Spectrum Center® to view the magnificent creations of playhouse builder teams. Participants’ craftsmanship will be showcased to the public beginning Saturday, July 31 and ending with the live public auction on Saturday, Sept. 11. Participating builders will receive media coverage; prominent signage; event advertising; prestigious award opportunities and a special VIP party honoring contributors. All proceeds benefit HomeAid Orange County’s mission to build and maintain dignified housing where homeless families and individuals can rebuild their lives.

Project Playhouse debuted in 1992 and for 18 years renowned Southern California homebuilders, trades, architects and designers have participated in Project Playhouse helping to raise more than $5 million which has enabled HomeAid to build or renovate 44 housing developments for homeless men, women and children.

One of Southern California’s leading homebuilders, William Lyon Homes, has consecutively built award winning playhouses for Project Playhouse since the event premiered in Orange County. Returning again this year, Tara Morenc, Director of Purchasing expressed, “William Lyon Homes is not just a builder. We build communities and feel it is important to give back to the community. We’re proud to again be a part of Project Playhouse. We feel it is the most effective way to utilize our expertise and resources and at the same time help homeless individuals and families.”

Other returning 2010 playhouse builders are Shea Homes, Building Industry Technology Academy (BITA), University of Southern California Irvine Facilities Management Team and McCarthy Building Companies, Inc. in partnership with CHOC Children’s. If you are interested in joining this prestigious group contact Gina Scott at 949.553.9510 or email gina@homeaidoc.org to request entry forms, guidelines and participation details. Act quickly, with five spaces already filled, HomeAid will accept the first four confirmed applicants.

2010 Project Playhouse

Project Playhouse kicks-off at Irvine Spectrum Center® on Saturday, July 31, 2010.

A $10 donation will give visitors entrance into the fantasy village to explore the playhouses. Opening Day is the ONLY day the public can actually step inside these incredible miniature houses.

Opening Day is always exciting. Click here to see pictures from 2009.

After Saturday's Open House the playhouses will continue to be on display until September 11. On the weekends for a $5 donation per person, visitors can view the house interiors through Dutch doors.

The six week long event culminates with a live public auction at Irvine Spectrum Center® on Saturday, September 11.

Follow our blog for updates.