BID projects – Humber College

Continuing our celebration of BID grad projects, we are excited to showcase the projects by the graduating students from ARIDO – recognized schools across Ontario on BLOG//ARIDO, and we’re delighted to spotlight their achievements with both the ARIDO community and beyond.

Collaborating with these schools, ARIDO has curated a collection of fourth-year Bachelor of Interior Design (BID) student projects to feature on BLOG//ARIDO. We’ll be unveiling these projects throughout May, June, and July, offering insights into the talent emerging from these institutions.

Alexia Molinaro – Creative Studio/Art Education

The Creative Studio/Education Facility is a valuable resource for artists who paint, draw, take photos, create films or design graphics. In the art world, where success can be tough to achieve, this place provides crucial support. Students not only further their skills but also receive additional support to navigate their career paths within the creative field.

Collaboration is very important in this design as it prepares students for future encounters where art disciplines inevitably intersect. Additionally, it provides a valuable networking opportunity and recognizes the importance of connections in today’s professional landscape. The concept, inspired by the word synergy, envisions a central space for students to collaborate and learn from each other. Each art discipline has its own dedicated space around this central hub, but at the end of the day, students come together in the central area to enrich their learning journey even further rather than if they were on their own.

Angelica SpanoCreative Canvas Art Therapy

This Art Therapy Center is a space for children struggling with Selective Mutism, aged 4 to 12. Recognizing the need to support this rare form of anxiety, the space seeks to establish an anxiety-free center aiming to create an empowering space through art therapy.

By offering both individual and collaborative sessions, the goal is to guide them in discovering their voice through artistic expression. Children with selective mutism often experience feelings of anxiety, fear, and disempowerment in situations where they are expected to speak. They may feel overwhelmed by the pressure to communicate verbally and may worry about being judged or criticized. Selective mutism can lead to feelings of frustration, isolation, and low self-esteem as children struggle to express themselves in certain situations despite their ability to speak in other contexts. Therefore utilizing Urie Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory, A significant understanding and support for children with Selective Mutism has been achieved within their diverse and interconnected environments and feelings.

The design concept is grounded in creating an empowering environment tailored for children with selective mutism, where art serves as their medium of communication and self-expression. Through a free-flowing design, each child’s voice is magnified, nurturing a deep sense of identity, belonging, and confidence, the space reflects the uninhibited creativity of children, aiming to be transformative and self-empowering. It’s a space where children with selective mutism can freely explore their creativity, fostering growth and empowerment

Camryn PlantzEntrepreneurial Education and Resource Centre

This thesis focuses on establishing an education and resource center for aspiring women-identifying entrepreneurs. By recognizing gender-based obstacles, barriers, and discrepancies in entrepreneurial education, this project aims to address the lack of inclusive physical learning spaces for women entrepreneurs. By empowering entrepreneurial minds, an empowering and supportive educational hub, characterized by innovative interior design strategies is formulated.

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Chelsea SmithToronto’s Body Modification School

Toronto’s Body Modification School. Where formal education enhances the creative experience between emerging (body modification) artists and their clients. The development of the school will promote much-needed governance and credibility within the respective industry. The design of the school, supported by the curriculum, provides space for students to utilize activity-based learning, thus mirroring current apprenticeships.
The study was grounded in the learning-centered paradigm and active-based learning, both theoretical frameworks emphasized problem-solving and practical applications of the theory previously taught. The conceptual framework employed these principals, as a means to resolve the disconnect in the transfer of knowledge and skills between students and teachers to allow for a more adaptive learning environment without sacrificing the necessary practical learning needed for the tattoo and piercing industries.

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Chloe LedoFreshman Hub

Welcome to the Freshman Hub, an exclusive community centre tailored for first-year students. The mission is to revolutionize the college experience by pooling resources and support systems. We are dedicated to enhancing academic success, reducing stress, and fostering a sense of belonging. At the heart of our community centre lies the commitment to bring together individuals from diverse backgrounds, promoting interaction and harmony.

Our primary objectives include prioritizing student well-being, offering comprehensive support services, implementing effective stress reduction strategies, and fostering inclusive student engagement. The design of the community centre is grounded in the concept of Balance and Community, offering an adaptable environment that effortlessly accommodates the evolving needs and preferences of first-year students. Through a thoughtful fusion of community and balance, the centre cultivates social interaction, academic excellence, and personal growth, empowering students to thrive in a supportive atmosphere where everyone contributes to the collective well-being.

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Christina TranBoundless

Boundless explores the needs of visual art studios and workshops to create a welcoming space that corresponds to the needs of artists and novices by facilitating a space for motivation, inspiration, skill development, and a place to connect to like-minded people. To do so, the creation of a visual art studio that focuses on “Experiential Learning” and “Activity Based Learning” can aid artists and users in these developments.

The concept explores the idea of defying the constraint and the idea of modularity of form and functions of interior elements. Such as furniture, millwork, and partitions that can be abstracted and extract new purposes and environments to accommodate user needs. Once one defies the constraints, it amplifies the ability to view the everyday ordinary as particularly extraordinary. By pushing beyond what constrains us, we acknowledge the meaningful elements that we’ve previously ignored and thus creativity is born.

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For more information on these projects and others visit the Humber ON/OFF website

BID projects – Georgian College

Continuing our celebration of BID grad projects, we are excited to showcase the projects by the graduating students from ARIDO – recognized schools across Ontario on BLOG//ARIDO, and we’re delighted to spotlight their achievements with both the ARIDO community and beyond.

Collaborating with these schools, ARIDO has curated a collection of fourth-year Bachelor of Interior Design (BID) student projects to feature on BLOG//ARIDO. We’ll be unveiling these projects throughout May, June, and July, offering insights into the talent emerging from these institutions.

Brooke Hebner – The Village

‘The Village’ addresses the pressing issue of homelessness in Ontario by providing a transitional housing solution that empowers residents aging out of the foster care system, supporting personal growth, breaking down societal barriers, and ensuring a successful reintegration into the community. The upper level of the facility is a private residence tailored to these youth, where their self discovery is balanced with relationship building.

The lower level is an experiential restaurant that connects residents to the community, cultivates culinary and career skills, and works to bridge the gap towards a stigma free reality. The design is created around the vision of a space that is both dynamic and balanced. Implementing curved forms that mimic existing architecture and linear forms to contrast, the design introduces layers, scale, and symmetry towards visual interest. The selection of finishes prioritizes sustainability, with the design shaped around the ideas of LEED and WELL standards.

Brooke Hebner, from Georgian College designed the Village in earthy, neutral calming tones, in this dining area
Brooke Hebner, from Georgian College designed the Village in earthy, neutral calming tones. This is a living room setting
Brooke Hebner, from Georgian College designed the Village in earthy, neutral calming tones, in this large kitchen area

Caeley Leduc – Serenity Youth mental health awareness

In Canada, between 10% and 20% of youth experience mental disorders or illnesses. In 2020, one in five Canadians 12 and older needed to access mental health services. Due to the scarcity of facilities catering to youths between 13 and 18, the Serenity Youth Mental Health Group was developed to assess the needs of low-risk youth mental health patients. The facility offers grief counselling, support groups, cognitive behavioural therapy, art therapy, an inpatient unit, and more.

Mental health is like a drop of water. Just one drop can create ripples, altering its surroundings. Once proper treatment is obtained, the ripples can slowly settle and return to their original form. Serenity aims to deinstitutionalize and destigmatize mental health. To do so, organic forms and natural finishes were used to project a sense of calm and connect the users to nature. Using Greengard Indoor Air Quality Certified products like the 3form Varia panels and universal design features like wheelchair-accessible counter height, Serenity provides a healthy and welcoming space for youth.

Caeley Leduc from Georgian College designed the Serenity Youth mental Health Group and this centre using organic forms and natural finishes for a sense of calm and to connect to nature
Caeley Leduc from Georgian College designed the Serenity Youth mental Health Group and this centre using organic forms and natural finishes for a sense of calm and to connect to nature.
Caeley Leduc from Georgian College designed the Serenity Youth mental Health Group and this centre using organic forms and natural finishes for a sense of calm and to connect to nature.

Cali Pitcher – Springwater Summit

A streamlined and dynamic space has been designed for the Township of Springwater’s first community centre. Embracing this exciting development, the design will be a reflection of the township’s growth, harmonizing sleek modern elements and biophilic design principles to create a space that fosters a sense of community.

This facility provides residents of Springwater with an artisanal food market and teaching kitchen that offers subsidized meal services and cooking classes featuring locally sourced products to promote healthy meal options. Amenities of the space include fitness facilities, a community gathering space, meeting rooms, a library, and a cafe. The facility has been designed to create an inclusive environment that adheres to LEED and WELL design strategies. Springwater Summit offers family restrooms, a lactation room, and an AODA universal bathroom in addition to private gender-free bathrooms to create a comfortable and inclusive experience for all users of the space. 

Cali Pitcher from Georgian College designed the Springwater Summit centre as an inclusive environment that's light and bright with modern finishes
Cali Pitcher from Georgian College designed the Springwater Summit centre as an inclusive environment complete with this artisanal market and a teaching kitchen
Cali Pitcher from Georgian College designed the Springwater Summit centre as an inclusive environment that includes this beautiful community meeting space

Hannah Kyla De Vera – Redolent’s Culinary Academy

The repurposed Barrie’s bus terminal, now Redolent’s Culinary Academy at 24 Maple Ave in Barrie, addresses key social issues and offers a holistic curriculum, community engagement, and educational flexibility.

Homelessness in Simcoe County was tackled through collaboration between the County of Simcoe and the Simcoe County Alliance to End Homelessness, revealing 722 individuals homeless on January 23, 2022, the highest recorded. Culinary skills include nutritional values and motor skills development. Canadians spend an average of $32 per online food order, with 49.4% intending to continue weekly post-pandemic. The academy aims to be a learning hub for culinary and hospitality skills, doubling as a haven for homeless individuals during specific hours, and fostering community and compassion.

In addition, it was important to utilize the natural shape and form of the building and create a design that speaks to balance, contrast, and harmony. Redolent’s plans incorporate LEED/Well concepts like rainwater management and nourishment, offering benefits such as reduced strain on municipal water supplies, flood mitigation, preservation of natural water sources, and decreased energy consumption. Nourishment education promotes balanced diets, and sustainable agriculture, supports local economies, and reduces food waste through mindful consumption.

Hannah Kyla De Vera from Georgian College designed this Culinary Academy using natural shapes and forms to create balance, contrast and harmony in the kitchen interior.
Hannah Kyla De Vera from Georgian College designed this Culinary Academy using natural shapes and forms to create balance, contrast and harmony, like in this dining area.
Hannah Kyla De Vera from Georgian College designed this Culinary Academy using natural shapes and forms to create balance, contrast and harmony in the kitchen interior.

2024 ARIDO Communities Recruitment is Open

Graphic for ARIDO Communities recruitment

We are pleased to announce the launch of the recruitment process for the 2024 ARIDO Communities Volunteers, which will be open until June 5th.

With the dissolution of the ARIDO Chapters underway, we are now beginning the establishment of the new regional model, ARIDO Communities. As presented to the ARIDO membership and community at large, this new model will require newly appointed volunteers to serve in volunteer positions that will support the implementation and operations of the model in 4 regions across Ontario.

We are therefore opening the call for those individuals who have an interest in volunteering.

Central ARIDO Community

  • From east to west Oshawa to Mississauga.
  • From north to south, includes Downtown Toronto core to King City.

Eastern ARIDO Community

  • Ottawa, Kingston, Belleville and Pembrook.

Northtern ARIDO Community

  • Barrie, Owen Sound, Goderich, Huntsville, Parry Sound, North Bay, Timmins, Sudbury, Sault Ste. Marie and Thunder Bay

Western ARIDO Community

  • Oakville, Milton, Guelph, Burlington, Hamilton, Cambridge, Kitchener, Waterloo, Stratford, Woodstock, London, Chatham, Windsor, and Niagara region

Positions Open for Recruitment

The following positions are now officially open for recruitment:

  • Community Leads
  • Community Co-Leads
  • Committee Volunteers

Click here for more details on the roles and responsibilities, including time commitment.

To apply for any of the above indicated roles, click on the following sign up forms:

Appointments for all roles will be approved in June with volunteer activity and meetings starting in early July 2024.

Should you have any questions, please contact Clenton Afonso at cafonso@arido.ca.

BID projects – Algonquin College (continued)

Continuing our celebration of BID grad projects, we are excited to showcase the projects by the graduating students from ARIDO – recognized schools across Ontario on BLOG//ARIDO, and we’re delighted to spotlight their achievements with both the ARIDO community and beyond.

Collaborating with these schools, ARIDO has curated a collection of fourth-year Bachelor of Interior Design (BID) student projects to feature on BLOG//ARIDO. We’ll be unveiling these projects throughout May, June, and July, offering insights into the talent emerging from these institutions.

Analeisa Segal – The Climb & Craft Café

The Climb & Craft Café is an adaptive, re-imaginative project of the former Rideau High School in Ottawa, Ontario. This initiative aims to revitalize the community by offering after-school activities following the closure of the school. Research conducted indicates a need for safe, engaging spaces where youth can socialize, exercise, and express their creativity.

This project considers existing building constraints. The reuse of existing storage cabinets for the art workshop and the decision to keep the ceiling entirely exposed demonstrate a commitment to sustainability and budget-conscious design.

The mission of Climb & Craft Café is to serve as a vibrant community nexus, bringing together artists and climbing enthusiasts. Our welcoming and inclusive environment fosters interaction and camaraderie between climbers and artists, offering a unique common ground for connection and collaboration over a cup of coffee.

Matt Staples – The Canadian Museum for Climate Impact (CMCI)

The Canadian Museum for Climate Impact (CMCI), situated within the rejuvenated Rideau Community Hub, symbolizes a profound commitment to addressing the urgent environmental issues of our time. This adaptive reuse project, emerging from the historic Rideau High School, embraces a forward-thinking design and exhibits that educate and inspire societal transformation towards sustainability.

The museum integrates sustainable building practices and local materials, reducing environmental impact while showcasing eco-friendly innovations. It serves as an educational platform, emphasizing the severe consequences of climate change and promoting community engagement through participatory projects.

Designed to be a beacon of sustainability, CMCI aims to mend the rift between human activities and environmental health, fostering a societal shift toward repairing our relationship with the planet. This initiative not only conserves the educational heritage but also repurposes it into a dynamic venue dedicated to climate awareness and action.

Natalia Kokavcova – The NEST community work centre

The NEST community work centre features a dynamic and adaptable space designed to foster creativity and collaboration while ensuring sustainability and flexibility. It’s a versatile community work centre designed to welcome individuals of all ages and professions.

The NEST offers a mix of areas tailored for collaboration and focus work. The space reuses the existing structural framework to define four corners of collaboration: a Maker’s Space, an Innovation Space, a Flex Space, and a Collaboration Space. Additionally, the centre includes a Quiet Zone for those needing a more subdued environment with focus rooms and work rooms branching off. Furthest from the quiet zone is a cafe that fosters casual conversation and comfortable productivity.

The entire layout is kept open, equipped with moveable dividers and furniture to ensure the space can evolve. This design serves as a sustainable model for future reuse and redesigning, capturing a unique perspective of what sustainability means in interior design.

Makers space in NEST community work centre
Collaboration space in NEST community work centre
Cafe interior in NEST community work centre
Flex space in NEST community work centre

Samantha Derosier – UnityCare Health Centre

UnityCare Health Centre is an inclusive and innovative space that provides health education and consultation for the immigrant population in the Vanier neighbourhood in Ottawa, Ontario. The space is to provide culturally sensitive care from skilled volunteer healthcare providers from the region through traditional healing techniques alongside western medicine. By providing accessible and culturally relevant health services, the hub aims to empower the community and increase well-being.

The Rideau Community Hub engages with UnityCare to integrate medical services with community support activities, holistically tackling health and social issues. To improve the overall user experience, the hub’s design will examine features such as aesthetics, community participation, inclusivity, and accessibility.

The community health hub aims to improve the community’s well-being, satisfaction, and resilience by incorporating design principles such as preserving historical features, creating flexible spaces, sustainable design, promoting accessibility and inclusivity, and incorporating natural elements and light.

Dining Room in the UnityCare Health Centre
Classroom in the UnityCare Health Centre
Consultation Room in the UnityCare Health Centre
Rendered Section of UnityCare Health Centre

Victoria Maber – Meadowlands Counselling Clinic

Meadowlands Counselling Clinic is a counselling and therapy clinic dedicated to caregivers.
Caregivers provide assistance for everyday tasks for individuals who cannot do so for
themselves. Meadowlands Counselling Clinic provides specialized counselling services to
help navigate mental and physical struggles that come with being a caregiver and simply
because everyone deserves care.

Located in the old Rideau High School in Ottawa, Ontario, this retrofit features a colour palette consisting of greens, creams and blues that will brighten up the space while encouraging a feeling of relaxation and warmth. Meadowlands Counselling Center is the place to empower the lives of those who enrich the lives of others.

Reception area at the Meadowlands Counselling Clinic
Therapy Room at the Meadowlands Counselling Clinic
Corridors at the Meadowlands Counselling Clinic
Waiting area at the Meadowlands Counselling Clinic

View more projects by Algonquin BID grads here.

BID projects – Algonquin College

Just like previous few years, we are excited to showcase the projects by the graduating students’ from ARIDO – recognized schools across Ontario on BLOG//ARIDO, and we’re delighted to spotlight their achievements with both the ARIDO community and beyond.

Collaborating with these schools, ARIDO has curated a collection of fourth-year Bachelor of Interior Design (BID) student projects to feature on BLOG//ARIDO. We’ll be unveiling these projects throughout May, June, and July, offering insights into the talent emerging from these institutions.

Giuliana Barbier – Fusion Fitness

Fusion Fitness is an adaptive reuse project of a fitness facility situated within the premises of Vaniers’ former Rideau High School. This project addresses the need for accessible and diverse health opportunities by encompassing various zones and amenities tailored to meet the diverse needs and preferences of the users.

Catering to seniors and individuals with disabilities, the facility aims to offer an inclusive space promoting physical fitness, mental wellness, and community engagement. The design concept embraces the essence of nature through the use of soothing colours, organic textures, and natural materials. This creates a rejuvenating environment that inspires holistic wellness, and fosters a sense of vitality and connection to the surrounding world while promoting physical activity tailored to the community’s needs.

Julia Ranallo – Crossroad Library & Cafe

This project seeks to repurpose a section of the former Rideau High School into a dynamic community library, focusing on educational, cultural integration, and community empowerment objectives. It addresses post-closure challenges such as marginalized communities and discrimination through strategic renovation, aiming to bridge the gap between residents and newcomers.

Highlighting the intersection of cultures within the Vanier community, Crossroad Library and Cafe uses elements of light and warmth to craft a welcoming and motivating atmosphere. Implementing flexible spaces, angular features, and modular furnishings, the design promotes a sense of connection, discovery and productivity for the users.

Linh Dinh – Youth Peak Physio and Rehab Center

Nestled within the old Rideau High School gym area, now a bustling community hub is Youth Peak’s Physio and Rehab Center—a beacon of specialized care for young individuals. Embodying the spirit of a superhero’s journey, its vibrant interior resembles a lively workshop, blending healthcare standards with playful empathy. Linear graphics guide visitors through distinct zones: Welcoming, Treatment, and Activities, each marked by unique colours.

Pastel tones dominate, with bright splashes on the walls uplifting young patients. Triangular shapes invite engagement, symbolizing the dynamic nature of the healing journey. Above, the ceiling mimics the sky, with suspended acoustic panels creating a peaceful environment conducive to recovery. This innovative center offers tailored support for sports-related injuries and musculoskeletal issues, seamlessly integrating physiotherapy into youths’ lives. It embodies a commitment to proactive health management, fostering a culture of well-being within the community through collaborative efforts and ongoing refinement.

Sara Masarani – Kultural Kitchen

Welcome to Kultural Kitchen, a Cultural culinary hub at the former Rideau High School site in Ottawa, addressing challenges for newcomers and immigrants starting food businesses. By repurposing infrastructure and promoting diversity, Kultural Kitchen provides access to licensed kitchens, equipment, economic opportunities, and spaces for cultural discussions. Rooted in a belief that food unites people, the space celebrates global culinary traditions.

Multifunctional facilities, including shared and private kitchens, and a communal dining hall offer a platform for culinary exploration and innovation. Through vibrant design elements like stained glass and neutral tones, Kultural Kitchen fosters inclusivity and sustainability, providing a welcoming space for food enthusiasts to learn, develop enterprises, and engage in culturally rich experiences within the community.

Zihong Ran – PixelPulse Arena

PixelPulse Arena is set to revolutionize the gaming world, offering an immersive hub for gamers of all backgrounds. With state-of-the-art technology, a wide selection of games, and a community-driven environment, PixelPulse Arena is not just a gaming hub, it’s a destination for those who live and breathe digital entertainment.

View more projects by Algonquin BID grads here.

Webinar: Top Strategies for Ensuring You Get Paid by PROLINK

The success of any business relies on its cash flow. But what do you do when clients don’t pay their bills on time? Or worse, if they don’t pay them at all? Whether they’re having technical issues, running low on funds, trying to delay, or they simply just forgot, clients can miss payments for any number of reasons. And while larger designer firms have departments to deal with accounts receivables, smaller practices might not have the time or support to set up proper pre-qualification, billing procedures or investigate past-due invoices in a timely manner. 

What experience has shown is that cash flow problems for designers or getting heavy handed with clients on payment often lead to insurance claims or law suits against design firms.  In this session we will share some of the best industry practices for getting paid and avoiding these lawsuits.

  • Date: Tuesday, June 4th
  • Time: 11:00AM
  • Location: Virtual via ZOOM (Link will be provided two days prior to the event)
  • Fee: $25 (This event is for ARIDO Members only)
  • This session is worth 1 General Education CEU credit

This webinar hosted by Michael Loeters, Senior Vice President, PROLINK Insurance Inc.

Michael Loeters joined PROLINK Insurance in January 2017 with responsibilities for the commercial insurance division, strategic accounts and running the risk management practice in Canada.  Michael has been working with design firms and their insurance and risk management programs for over 20 years, and a thought leader on risk management practices that help design firms achieve their strategic objectives.

Home and Auto Insurance offers from PROLINK:

Did you know that ARIDO Members save up to 20% on Home & Auto Insurance through PROLINK? Find out how in this video.

For more information on the ARIDO program, visit: https://prolink.insure/arido/

What to ask before hiring an Interior Designer

At my firm, Sanura Design, we love educated clients – and curious clients. An integral part of our process is ensuring our clients have all the information they need- and that includes knowing the design process, permit process, construction process, and everything in between.

So… what do you need to know before you hire me or another design professional?

1: Personality isn’t everything- but fit is really important

Interior design is an incredibly personal job- especially when designing your home. As your interior designer I know things like: what’s in your bedtime table, how you arrange your undies, what you have for breakfast, and your morning bathroom habits. Most of which I bet your friends don’t know. That means when you search for an interior designer you’re searching for someone you can be open with, and work with in their professional capacity. How do you know your interior designer is right for you (after checking qualifications, experience, etc)?  How do you know you’ll be friendly with someone?

2: Are they qualified?

Have a good look at what you’d like to accomplish for your project and what your goals are. Are you simply freshening a space by changing furniture, paint colours, lighting fixtures? That’s something you can hire an interior designer OR decorator for. Are you moving walls, changing your HVAC, electrical, etc, adding an addition, or generally altering your actual home in some way? That’s where you need a qualified professional- a registered interior designer is a regulated profession in Ontario where you know exactly what we need to know to earn our title of “interior designer” and we answer to our organization when we aren’t standing up to our code of ethics. Other design professionals do have extensive experience in renovations and may have a comprehensive skill set, if you hire someone like this the next step will be a very important one.

3: Check their references

Whether you’re hiring us, another registered interior designer, or another design professional, a very important step is asking for and checking a few references. You’re looking for past clients that have undergone similar work to your project, and a bonus can sometimes be hearing from other professionals, like contractors or consultants. You want to have a personal conversation with them and get a good idea for what their experience is like, exactly what the person you may be hiring did for them and what challenges came up. You need to check multiple references as this gives you a much fuller picture of who you’ll be working with.

4: Are they insured?

That’s their problem right? Professionals who do good work don’t need liability insurance- they never get sued.
Incorrect! Liability insurance isn’t just to cover a professional from unhappy clients, it’s also to cover the project from unforeseen circumstances- like a defective product, an incorrectly installed finish, or the incorrect product being installed (among many many other things). Mistakes happen, even with the best professionals, and true professionals carry this protection for themselves, their employees, and their projects.

5: Do they have a contract?

Contracts are incredibly important to your renovation. Both your contractor AND your interior designer should have detailed contracts for you to sign. For an interior designer they should include things like: fees/payment schedule, scope of work, details for breaking the contract, and clarify each sides responsibilities- to name a few. These contracts protect YOU the most- and I can’t emphasize that enough. If something goes wrong during the project and you didn’t sign a contract- you have no options and no protection. The longer and more detailed your professional’s contract is, the more confident you should feel in hiring them. This means they’re openly laying out exactly how they work and ensuring you understand the full process before you sign up for a project with them. A good professional is also always willing to go through their contract with you in detail to help you feel more comfortable.


Whew! That was a technical one. I’m sure I missed something (we don’t want an essay on the subject!), but it will serve as a great rule of thumb to ensure you get the right professional for your project.

Do you have any questions on what the qualifications of a registered interior designer ARE or would like to find one in your area? Check out the ARIDO website.

If you want to chat with us about your project and see if we’re a good fit for you? Get in touch with us.

This post first appeared on Sanura Design | Full Service Interior Design.

Awareness Committee Addressing the January 24th National Day of Education Post

Dear ARIDO Community,

We’ve recently reflected on a recent post we made and want to take a moment to address it. While it was not our intention, we understand upon reflection that it may have caused offense for some members in our community. The EDAA Awareness Committee’s priority is to promote ARIDO’s commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility, as we highlight various cultural and religious events throughout the year. 

Recently, we acknowledged UNESCO’s International Day of Education on January 24th

We recognize that the image used in our post did not align with our intended message. While the image depicting young women wearing hijabs in a classroom aligned with UNESCO’s message, we now realize it did not accurately represent the intent of our message, the connection to ARIDO’s goals and strategies around advancing equity, diversity and inclusion in our community, and for that, we sincerely apologize.

We understand and appreciate that this was not appropriate, and it was not our intention to cause any discomfort or offense. As we continue on our journey of understanding Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility, we will continue to learn and grow from our experiences and ensure that all intentions behind our work align with our commitments and have meaningful, positive impacts.

We have learned along our journey as an organization, of the importance of leaning into the uncomfortable moments related to this important work. This includes vital moments of unlearning behaviours and cultures that may sometimes be inherent in the way we function, and being opening to relearning a new, mindful way forward. We are committed to learning from this experience to further advance our opportunity to be leaders in this work and advance the representation of diverse communities.

Thank you for your understanding and continued support as we strive to create an inclusive environment for all.

Sincerely, 
Your ARIDO EDAA Awareness Committee