The Canadian interior design field isn't wanting for talent. Just look at the line-up set to showcase at 2013's Interior Design Show in Toronto. But these four groundbreaking designers are already causing quite the stir when it comes to innovative interiors. From newbies just making a name on the scene, to those who are still creating surprising rooms well into their careers, this group is one to watch.
Heather Dubbeldam and her crew wear many hats. This Toronto-based design firm's skill set can redo everything from your home's architecture down to the final accents. Their modern aesthetic, which sways toward clean lines and open floor plans with minimalist decor and loads of natural light, has garnered them numerous awards, including a 2011 Design Excellence Award and a 2011 Canadian Interiors Award. However, it's this design team's focus on using sustainable materials and creating spaces that are low-impact on the
environment that keeps them on the cutting edge.
Photo: Dubbeldam Design Architects
This Calgary-based, former contestant on the "Design Superstar Challenge", may not have won the grand prize (he was in the top three) but that hasn't stopped him from making a name for himself across Canada. Mr. Velji's eye for creating inspirational spaces that mix modern elements with classic trends has earned him a regular spot on several television and radio programs, numerous awards and feature articles in national publications like
Western Living and
Style at Home.
His aesthetic always feels fresh and innovative, thanks to his penchant for combining strong neutrals with a pop of color, mixing patterns and accenting modern spaces with elegant, retro touches.
Photo: Alykhan Velji
Mason Studio
Though this collective is still in its infant stages, its collaborators -- Ashley Rumsey and Stanley Sun -- have 14 years of design experience between them.
Mason Studio's philosophy attempts to blur the lines between interiors, art and graphic design; while their
aesthetic -- which they refer to as "Neo-Canadiana"-- combines traditional Canadian architecture with their travels around the world. The end result is an inspiring, innovative, cohesive space where the design focus isn't on the individual objects that fill the room, but rather on the daily rituals that take place within.
Photo: Interior Design Show
Mazen El-Abdallah of Mazen Studio
Established in 2006, Mazen Studio's designs have graced the pages of numerous publications including
Canadian House and Home and
The Globe. This is no doubt because of its owner Mazen El-Abdullah's skill at combining vintage and modern touches to create fresh, playful rooms with a decidedly masculine feel. His designs don't shy away from combining interesting lines, patterns and textiles in unexpected ways. The final product is a layered space in which one can constantly discover new elements they didn't notice upon first look.
Photo: Mazen Studio
By Megan Mostyn-Brown