The Designers & Decorators Association of Canada (DDA Canada) is the country’s most influential association for decorators and designers. You could say, if you were being a little cheeky, that their annual design and decoration competition is the Oscars of the industry—and, even cheekier, that ACM Designs is Cate Blanchett (talented, stylish, and a multiple award winner).
On May 3, 2019, DDA Canada recognized excellence in 13 design categories for accredited members and 2 for students, shining a light on established professionals and up-and-comers alike. The event attracts designers from right across the country, and the competition is fierce. So you can imagine that we were absolutely thrilled to accept not one, but two awards, both for projects we completed in Haliburton County in 2018.
Silver award for best universal design
Our first win was in the Universal Kitchen & Bathroom Design category. Universal Design principles are concerned with making spaces accessible for all, regardless of ability, age, or other factors. If you’ve been following us for a while you’ll already know that ACM Designs is one of only a handful of Canadian design teams that has completed the aging-in-place certification with the National Kitchen & Bath Association. Andria also gave a talk on it at the 2018 Toronto Interior Design Show. Along with our expertise in aging in place projects, our interest in Universal Design represents a core value for ACM. Our Haliburton Village Universal Design Bathroom received the silver award in this category. Not only is the bathroom absolutely gorgeous, it is also fully wheelchair-accessible.
Bronze award for best design with a challenging budget
The biggest surprise of the night was hearing our name called for an award in the Challenging Budget Under $10,000 category. We don’t often work on shoestring projects, but the Kashagawigamog Lake bedroom was a special exception. This incredible master bedroom transformation was an add-on to a major main floor and kitchen. We did this side project in secret so it could be a gift from husband to wife. It was a project that stole our hearts. As if that wasn’t enough, it also won us a prestigious award!
From all of us at ACM Designs: It’s an absolute honour to have our design work recognized and celebrated on the Canadian stage!