Venckauskas, who was studying for an exam, was stunned when he opened the door and learned that he won the 2010 HGTV Urban Oasis, a luxury residence in the heart of New York City’s financial district.
“No way, no way,” said Venckauskas, a Boca Raton native. “I’m speechless!”
The fully-furnished residence, with sweeping vistas of the city’s skyline, was custom-designed by HGTV’s Vern Yip. The apartment is part of the grand prize package that includes a new Acura ZDX. The prize is valued at about $1.5 million. Our student’s reaction was broadcast around the country during the HGTV Urban Oasis Giveaway 2010 special on Nov. 20.
Venckauskas, whose name was randomly drawn from more than 15.5 million entries, entered the first HGTV Urban Oasis Giveaway once at the urging of his mother, Genevieve, who said she entered the sweepstakes each day of the entry period and
encouraged her two sons, both UCF students, to enter as well.
“I think I’m off the hook for Adam’s graduation present,” she said with a laugh.
The HGTV Urban Oasis is located in The Residences at W New York-Downtown, 123 Washington Street. Yip, a judge for HGTV Design Star, designed the home with a clean-lined, eclectic look, highlighted by antiques and architectural artifacts uniquely tied to New York City. At just under 900 square feet, the residence includes one bedroom, a luxurious bath, a living room with lots of natural light, spectacular views of the city and a gourmet kitchen. It also features state-of-the-art appliances and hardwood floors.
“What a thrill to watch Adam’s reaction when he learned that he had won the HGTV Urban Oasis,” said HGTV President Jim Samples. “Millions of HGTV fans who are fascinated by city-living watched and participated in this year’s giveaway. We believe the home highlights the best in urban design and showcases the appeal of living in a downtown location that offers a variety of dynamic activities including theater, shopping, museums and restaurants.”
Source: HGTV, Urban Oasis 2010