Technology... Computers.....etc etc.....

Well anyone who knows me well, knows I seem to have a lot of issues with my technology.  My Internet and computer seem to be having a lot of bad days and are always sick, or so it seems.  Recently I had an issue of synchronizing my computer to my blackberry.  It had worked in the past but for some reason it wasn't in the mood to cooperate now, so I spend hours trying to figure out what was the matter.  I really wanted to solve this myself, but alas after no success I had to ask my hubby and he is usually quite expert at these things, but he had no luck either.  We were stumped so the next day I called the computer shop I go to and they said bring it in now, it is a 5 minute process.  I was delighted but felt a little at odds that if it was so simple why couldn't I fix it??? Well a full afternoon later, yup it wasn't the 5 minute process, I now have my computer and blackberry back home and synced!! Many thanks to Cheng who was determined to find out what the issue was and who stayed late to get it done.  Talk about super excellent service!!  He did explain what it was and as usual is was some problem with RIM software not being comparable and up to date for the newer version of windows on my computer.

Ok, I am a happy person and think things are going good with the old PC and then Wham!! I download an update for my adobe that 'comes a callin' and usually it does it's thing and the computer has to be shut down and restarts.  It didn't this time and instead I get a horrible message on a totally black screen and for over an hour I try to restart the thing to no success.  So once again I am on the phone to my great PC Shop and Cheng, (the other great IT guy there) tells me to bring it in right away and when he sees it he says it could mean the hard drive is shot.  I panic.  He does a little something and it is up and running.  Big hug to Cheng.  I get home later that evening and guess what - that horrible message appears again.   Now I really think I must put a curse on computers.  My talented daughter who seems to know her way a round computers quite well is visiting this particular night and she goes to work and fixes it and explains why it happened, etc, etc to which I am so grateful.  More Hugs and this time Kisses to Meg as well. 

Soooo if anyone wants an excellent computer Shop, then contact Dave or Cheng at  PC Shop Computers www.pcshopcomputers.com, 579 Kerr St., Oakville, 905-844-2113.  They offer excellent service, pricing and are incredibly smart to boot!! 

Sorry but Meg is not working on anybody else's computers, just her mom's as she is busy at her job taking  photos of homes for sale,  and making them look gorgeous.

As of writing this blog, I want to say the old PC is working great but don't want to jinx it.

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.

The amazing versatility of Cork

Cork has been used for many years and is most often thought of by its use in bulletin boards or to cap off wine bottles.  Cork has come a long way and is used in many eco-friendly ways these days. 
 

We first started to see it used in flooring but now we see it used for wall and ceiling coverings and it is a naturally decorative and modern alternative to traditional coverings. It is available in a wide variety of unique patterns and shades to compliment any decor or furniture style, and will add character and warmth to any room.  

Outstanding room designs are created by using cork to accent or contrast walls and ceilings, floors and now furniture!  

Cork coverings are a naturally decorative and modern alternative to traditional coverings.They are available in a wide variety of unique styles, patterns and shades to compliment any décor or furniture style, and will add character and warmth to any room. Outstanding room designs created using cork to accent or contrast walls or ceilings. Additionally, whether in tile form or roll form, besides being decorative cork coverings are also functional. Available in a variety of sizes and thicknesses, these decorative coverings can also serve as tack and pin boards without damage to the cork. Ideal for offices, children’s rooms, and any other area where pinups are wanted.
Cork furniture by Jelinek Cork Group, www.jelinek.com is distinct and exclusive in many ways. Each piece is individually hand crafted to ensure the highest quality and although there are many standard pieces, CUSTOM MADE designs and items can also be developed. Most of the cork materials are produced by hand and are water and stain resistant and like all fine furniture, cork furniture will last for many years under normal wear and tear

.

Cork Fashion Collections, produced from natural cork fabrics, are stylish and sophisticated and are used on a wide selection of products including handbags, sport bags and luggage, wallets and watches, upholstered furniture, clothing, pillows, yoga mats, shoes, painters canvases, and more!

.

If you would like to see the many other used for cork visit The Cork House, www.jelinek.com/ located on Neyagawa Blvd, Oakville which is located in a historic home converted to showroom and    factory outlet for Jelinek Cork Group

CDECA GTA West Chapter at Speers Road Broadloom

Many CDECA decorators attended an event at Speers Road Broadloom  www.speerswww.speersroadbroadloom.com entitled 'Hands On' Installation and gained extremely valuable knowledge. 

Carl French from Speers Road Broadloom organized a professional flooring trainer to attend. His name is Dave Adams. He is a real specialist that works with a number of flooring products.   We we given information on the newest in vinyl flooring; Polypropylene Carpets and how easy they are to live with as well as wood step covers

As in the past Carl arranged for lovely refreshments provided by Janna French-Kugler of SPECA Marketing and Event Planning.www.specsplanning.com

 Thanks to Carl for arranging to have his suppliers on hand for this informative evening

Benjamin More takes another direction....

Benjamin Moore www.benjaminmoore.com  has partnered with Canadian Tire www.canadiantire.ca to bring you a high-quality paint for the interior and exterior of your home.

Origins™ by Benjamin Moore® paints are easy to apply and deliver an outstanding finish that is durable, washable, and fade-resistant.

Available in an exclusive palette of 494 designer-picked paint colours, you'll find an Origins™ by Benjamin Moore® paint for every project.

 Great Display at Canadian Tire

CDECA AGM

The month of April brought us to our CDECA Annual General Meeting and once again our meeting was held at the Estates of Sunnybrook in Toronto.  Attendees enjoyed two professional development seminars, a fabulous lunch and great networking with peers and affiliates as well as the Awards Presentations to our Winners of the 2012 Design Competition. As well as all the fun there was the business of our general meeting and the National Board of Directors for 2012 - 2013 were duly elected.

   

Karl Lohnes spoke on the topic of 'FOLLOWING YOUR INSTINCTS, NOT THE TRENDS'

    

            


                                                                 

Fawn Chang spoke on how the topic of " FENG SHUI - THE USE OF ANCIENT WISDOM IN MODERN COLOUR AND DESIGN"

If not for the generosity of our wonderful affiliates we would not have had such a successful day.  Many thanks to all who supported this event.   All in all a great day for everyone