Vancouver's most anticipated annual design event kicks off this week, launching what will surely be one of the hottest (and most relevant) displays of local design talent of this season. IDS West, running Sept. 24 through 27, is introducing Open Studio –an installation that explores the possibilities of a workspace through the eyes of 10 designers.
Each of the design teams will transform a "blank canvas" of a 10-foot by 10-foot room into their vision of an inspiring small-space workspace. Blending areas of respite with the modern day functionality of a productive workspace, the Open Studio designs will create an engaging, forward-thinking approach to collaborative workspaces in which there is both inspiration and a connection with oneself and one's work team.
Check out IDS West, happening this weekend at The Vancouver Convention Centre, to explore all 10 designs –here are the faces and inspirations behind my top five:
Design LaB
About the team: DesignLaB Interiors provides full-service design and renovation services for both residential and commercial projects. Creating comprehensive design plans, selecting finishes and fixtures, and working with our expert list of sub-trades on every project, we aim to please both client’s style and budget. Combining unique clean ideas and an immense passion for interiors, DesignLaB Interiors delivers distinctive and quality projects throughout the Lower Mainland.
The Open Studio plan: From Alexis, owner of Design LaB: "We are featuring a light box with custom panels that will give an otherwise internal office space the look of having windows and natural light. We are combining the natural imagery of the backdrop (a nature scene) with a crisp white boardroom table and the warmth of natural black oak trim, as well as the Santos Palisander Herman Miller mouldedwood chairs. Keeping the crisp clean lines that define DesignLaB Interior's look, we've applied this so that what was once a closed-in space feels bright, inviting, and inspiring."
Kalu Interiors
About the team: Kalu Interiors is a full-service interior design company that values the importance of people and their spaces.The firm is dedicated to working closely with their clients in order to achieve a unique design, which personally reflects their clients’ needs, desires, and aspirations.
The Open Studio plan: Kalu Interiors has developed a design for Open Studio where interior meets exterior, drawing inspiration directly from nature, focusing on key elements such as collaboration, connection and creativity.
Union Wood Co.
About the team: Union Wood Co. was founded in 2009 for the purpose of designing and building reclaimed wood furniture with a vintage feel. Nostalgic of the solid plank floors of Gastown’s docks, foundries and mills upon which Vancouver was built, we are continuously inspired by the simpler times of centuries past when materials and design were more raw, humble and functional. Focused on the aesthetic aspects of vintage industrial objects and construction, we utilize antique wood and other raw materials in our custom reclaimed furniture pieces. Our designs are bold, uncomplicated and one of a kind.
The Open Studio plan: Craig Pearce of Union Wood Co. says, "For Open Studio we are setting up our dream workshop. My dream workshop is mobile, and this time we’re taking it camping..."
Heather Ross
About the team: A renowned artist, photographer and designer, Heather is known for her wonderful sense of colour, keen eye and evocative imagery. For years her work as a photographer and stylist has been featured in the pages of many lifestyle publications, such as House & Home magazine. Heather's gallery/boutique is a favourite amongst designers, art directors and set decorators who covet Heather's unique vision for bringing unexpected items together with nuance and grace. She loves to use natural found objects in her charming displays and is drawn to simple organic forms and authentic materials.
The Open Studio plan: Heather says, "As one that likes to have her fingers in many pots, I pondered over what my dream studio would actually be. With my 'natural eclectic' philosophy in mind, I never know where my creative spirit will lead me, or what my next foraging adventures will unearth. With a little resourcefulness and economy of materials ... the modern artist can find a place to create wherever they go. Inspired by the campaign furniture of the past that could be dismantled and used on explorations, 'the portable studio' allows for serendipity and an ability to get out into the wild. Whether painting en plein air, escaping to a cottage or needing a temporary workspace in the city, the modern maker can get up and go."
Alda Pereira Design
About the team: Alda Pereira Design is a Vancouver based interior design firm specializing in private residential projects and multi-unit developments including towers, townhouses, low-rise developments and marketing centres. The Alda Pereira Design portfolio features an extensive number of versatile projects throughout North America, from inspired elegant urban residences to casual weekend retreats, a wide range of creative retail, restaurant, hotel and corporate interiors featuring signature clean modern lines and classic finishes with a twist.
The Open Studio plan: Check out Open Studio at IDS West to see the Alda Pereira vision!
• IDS West takes place Sept. 24-027 at the Vancouver Convention Centre. Tickets available here.
