GTA West Chapter of CDECA Designer Windows....

I wanted to share something that I am so proud of.....

Every few months a group of about 5 CDECA Decorators from the GTA West Chapter get together and plan, source and decorate a window at SoFA in a different theme.  It is such fun and we get to create without any restrictions.  We are fortunate to have wonderful showrooms at SoFA who loan us the furniture and accessories the help us create these window displays.  Thanks to Linda at SoFA for this wonderful opportunity to showcase our talent and our organization.

The first window was entitled 'Glam & Glitz' and we featured the Pantonne colour of last year which was Honeysuckle (pink)

Our second window was a display of the work of the winners of our annual design/decorating contest where we hung plaques displaying photos of their winning work.  We have many talented decorators in CDECA

For our third window we decided to illustrate the tools we utilize when creating our beautiful spaces and thus we called it 'Tools of the Trade'

Our forth windiw is obvious a Christmas Display and we called it 'Christmas in a Condo' showing that with an electric fireplace and other great details you can still have a cozy winter and Holiday space

The sixth window was a continuation of the winter theme in thecondo with the Holiday/Christmas decor removed

For the seventh window we entitled it 'A Gentlemen's Study' and created an old world theme with masculine touches while still having a little creativity with the chairs we selected. 

Our 8th and most popular window thus far is 'A Baby's Room'.  I have loved working on all of the designs but I think we all really had the most fun doing this room.  From the feedback we receive it appears to be a favourite of everyone who watches regularly to see our window displays.

Keep watching to see what we come up with next.....

We still haven't used this year's Pantonne colour of the Year - Tangerine Tango!!

Summer's here.....

June 21st,  the beginning of summer was marked by our chapter luncheon.  We had a fantastic turnout including several of our fabulous and supportive affiliates.  Our venue was Il Fornello in Oakville and a great time of networking and just catching up was had by all.  What a great way to start summer - good friends and good food!!

Keep watching as I discover more great decor and design destinations and products throughout the summer

SoFA Events.....

Many of the CDECA Members as well as others in the design community turned out to the Spring Vendor Showcase at SoFA www.visitsofa.ca.

Leading industry vendors were  on hand to showcase their product lines and offered us in depth, detailed product knowledge!

This was a successful event thanks to the many showrooms at SoFA who participated.  A great way to see all the new product lines and become inspired.  This event was sponsored by Alteriors, Pittsburgh Paint, Umbra and Indigo/Chapters.  Overall they provided prizes, refreshments and lunch.  Thanks to all.  For a complete list of those who participated please check out the CDECA GTA West Chapter Blog at www.cdecagtawest.blogspot.ca

Following the showcase event we enjoyed a lovely luncheon and then many of us attended Jane Lockharts presentation "Colour Foundations for Design Professionals" which was an ARIDO CEU approved credits.  As usual Jane was a most animated speaker and provided great info.

Cambria for the most luxurious quartz

Recently a colleague and I were given a tour of the new
Cambria Showroom, www.cambriacanada.com located at
91 Parliament St, Toronto in the distillery district.  
All I can say is WOW!!   Even if you are not looking to
renovate right now it is definitely worth a visit and by the
time you leave you will be dreaming of your next reno.  

The entrance reminds one of a classy and trendy lounge with banquets created

with dark quartz and covered in dark cushions.

As one moves through this historical space there hints of a time gone by with original brick walls, wood beams/posts/flooring and lead doors. I am told it has had many tenants over the years and at one time housed munitions, thus the lead doors.

Adding large slabs of gorgeous quartz throughout as well as several room vignettes designed by some of our well known and extremely talented designers gives much to inspire.

Cambria has partnered with other suppliers increasing their newest showroom.  The designers who participated in the different vignettes really pulled out all the stops.  I loved the kitchen by Jane Lockhart that included reclaimed wood and an incredible backsplash design. 

As usual Ramsin Khachi did not disappoint. He designed lighting throughout the space as well as a fabulous Loft Style bath with two soaker tubs.

There was a fabulous wine room, which of course anyone knowing me would know I would love that. I could go on and on, but it is much better for you to go and see this creative and beautiful space!

GTA West Chapter of CDECA at Speers Paint

The May meeting was sponsored by Speers Paint www.speerspaint.com  in Oakville.  

Carlos Pignataro, store manager, provided us with information on preparing general specifications, including estimates, scope, examination of surfaces, surface preparation and workmanship. Wayne Woodley of Penwood Painting and Craig Lowe of Lowe Painting discussed wallcovering installations, painting systems, working with contractors and managing expectations of clients.  The area representative of Benjamin Moore was also in attendance to discuss characteristics of Benjamin Moore paints and recent developments.

Enjoying some refreshments while having our meeting

 Audrey introducing Carlos

 Carlos and Guido doing the draws.

The meeting concluded with opportunities for networking and further questions.  As usual we were treated to lovely refreshments and draws for prizes.  Thanks to everyone at Speers Paint for a great evening.