Highlights from the IDS West Show
Well, it was fun IDS – until next year! For those of you who haven’t heard about this show, you are missing out. This is the most exciting annual event the A & D (Architects and Designers) community has in Vancouver. Over the years it has grown to become even bigger and better. Showcasing more talent, drawing prestigious speakers and a larger crowd. When my friends and family mention going to the home show I always tell them forget about that (who needs to see more hot tubs and Ginsu knives?) this is the show to attend. Whether you are a trade professional or home owner, who doesn’t appreciate seeing some of our city’s finest furniture, tile, and finishes retailers and suppliers all under one roof?
Rounding out our favorites from this year
Social – this is a great event to network and catch up with your peers, suppliers, clients and friends. One doesn’t have to look far to find a pre-party, after party or party after the after party! Actually the opening night is always a ton of fun. Since you are so busy socializing you never really get a chance to see much of the show. Hence Friday is Trade Day!
Stages – Both Caesarstone and Gray provided inspiring and educational lectures and discussions by both local and international keynote speakers. The intimate Gray Conversations Stage was designed by our good friend Jen Hawk of Occupy Design. The Caesarstone stage was designed by HCMA. And how could you miss the many people taking a break at the Caesarstone Swings designed by Philippe Malouin? This playful and minimalist interactive installation had previously been at the Toronto Interior Design Show and Milan Design Week.
Monogram’s Dinner by Design – showcased three dimensional dining installations that were created by local and international talent meant to awe, inspire and delight. This is one of Vancouver’s most creative charity events benefiting the Canadian Foundation for AIDS Research. Our favorite was The Concept: Loupe by VDB inspired by topographic maps.
Open Studio – included 10 handpicked designers that were given the opportunity to turn a blank space into a conceptual or functional themed work-space. When I stopped by Heather Ross’s display I felt like I was able to take a glimpse into her own private painting studio. It very much reflected her stores’ aesthetic and what you have come to expect from this talented artist.
New products – and of course the discovery of new products. What designer doesn’t get a thrill from this one? I was very impressed with many of the talented vendors that participated in the Portland pop up. The whimsical and colorful hooks by Merkled Studio and Veslostirrups bike shelf by Quartertwenty were stand outs.
Well I could go on, but who’s going to listen? There is always next year……….. Share your thoughts, what were your favorites this year? #area3idswest
