Thursday, Opening Night Party
Friday April 25th 2025 – 10am – 5pm
Saturday April 26th 2025 – 10am – 5pm
Sunday April 27th 2025 – 9am – 5pm
Opening Night Party – Thursday April 24
April 25 – 26, 2025 – 10am – 5pm
April 27, 2025 – 9am – 5pm
2024 PRESENTING SPEAKERS
11:00am
The Future of Architecture
11:00-11:45
Location: On the Jennair Main Stage
Explore the dynamic realm of architecture with insights from Martha Franco, Dee Dee Taylor Eustace and Gianpiero Pugliese, as they discuss the future of architectural design.
Martha Franco
Martha Franco Architecture and Design (MFA&D) is an award-winning architectural and interior design firm with expertise in the commercial, hospitality and luxury residential markets. We focus on high-end residential projects, including heritage home restoration, creating dream destinations for clients. Headquartered in Montreal, Canada, our firm operates with a borderless approach, collaborating with clients globally. MFA&D boasts a multidisciplinary team adept at seamlessly integrating architecture, interior design, furniture, and landscaping to create exceptional, fully cohesive environments.
At MFA&D, our commitment transcends style; we are dedicated to crafting timeless architecture and design that reflects the unique narratives and lifestyles of our clients. We strive to create distinctive spaces with sophisticated simplicity, that redefine elegance through a harmonious fusion of past and present.
MFA&D was founded in 2000 by Martha Franco, a registered architect and interior designer with a Master of Architecture from McGill University, who has garnered recognition for numerous emblematic projects. Drawing global inspiration from her Latin American roots, New York City experience, and years of practice working on iconic projects in Montreal’s most historic neighborhoods, Martha is deeply passionate about the history of architecture and brings this comprehensive expertise to every project she takes on.
DEE DEE TAYLOR EUSTACE |Founder & Owner | Taylor Hannah Architect
Dee Dee Taylor Eustace is an award-winning Architect and Interior Designer based in Toronto. Her full-service firm, Taylor Hannah Architect Inc., has a global portfolio of residential, commercial and hospitality projects. Dee Dee’s timelessly elegant style, paired with her years of industry experience, positions her and her team as industry leaders who constantly push the boundaries of design. Sharing her passion for architecture, design and its impact on the community extends far beyond the walls of her studio. Dee Dee wears many other hats in her career, such as author, real estate developer, construction manager, television personality, philanthropist, and keynote speaker.
Dee Dee Taylor Eustace is known within the architecture and design community for sharing her knowledge, donating her time, and inspiring others. Dee Dee is a strong believer in life-long learning and the profound importance of being both teacher and student. She is a mentor and influencer helping to elevate the next generation of architects and designers. Dee Dee Taylor Eustace has established scholarships for Westview Collegiate, the University of Toronto and is on the board of the University’s Boundless Campaign. She is also an active member of the International Advisory Board for McEwen School of Architecture at Laurentian University. Dee Dee has also been invited to give guest lectures at both The University of Toronto’s Faculty of Architecture and the American Institute of Architecture in Philadelphia.
Another large part of Dee Dee’s life is devoted towards charitable organizations supporting the greater community to make the world a better place. She holds many positions on committees including the Chair of Board New Start Foundation for Mental Health & Addiction for youth with Sunnybrook Hospital, the Cook for the Cure for Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation, the McEwen Stem Cell Race, and the Board of Governors North York General Hospital. Dee Dee Taylor Eustace is also the President for the Out of the Cold Foundation and lends her creative talents as Curator for the Gardiner museum’s 12 trees of Christmas.
Dee Dee Taylor Eustace has been published in top magazines such as Style at Home, Today’s Living: Hong Kong, Decor: Middle East, Decor Chic: Italy, and Luxury Homes Canada. Dee Dee writes a weekly column for The National Post and The Globe & Mail’s Style Section Design Expert. Dee Dee has published two comprehensive guides for creating your own stunning spaces titled “Dee Dee’s Rules” and “Dee Dee’s Rules: NYC Life, Love, Design.” She is currently hard at work on her next book which she’s crafting to be her masterpiece in design.
Dee Dee’s professional success paired with her eloquent demeanour have engaged audiences watching for her expert opinion on The Oprah Winfrey Show, W Network’s Game of Homes, The Steven & Chris Show, and The Marilyn Dennis Show. Dee Dee has appeared on multiple HGTV specials, including appearing on their Real Designing Woman and Hosting Love by Design. Dee Dee Taylor Eustace has a magnetic personality that makes her an engaging speaker. Dee Dee has emceed for the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada awards dinner, presented at The Toronto Designer’s Showcase and was featured in the Women of Influence Lecture series. Dee Dee is also a spokesperson for Bostik, a brand ambassador for Gaggeneau Appliances and a Brand Collaborator for Lexus. Her talents have added elegance to events such as, the HD Show in Las Vegas, the Interior Design Show in Toronto, the Designer Show Houses for the Junior League of Toronto and the Holiday House NYC Designer Showhouse.
Gianpiero Pugliese |Founding Principal | Audax
Gianpiero is an architect, interior designer, and builder. Leading all activities at Audax, Gianpiero has a Master of Architecture from Harvard University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Architecture from the University of California at Berkeley. He also studied at the Venice Institute of Architecture in Italy.
His current work at Audax explores the relationship between traditional design principles and the modern aesthetic. This approach, which he has coined as Human Architecture, aims to bring the tactile and human-scaled elements that were lost during the modern period back into contemporary design. Gianpiero is passionate about the history of architecture and interiors and uses this knowledge in each project.
Prior to founding Audax, Gianpiero worked as a designer and architect responsible for the design of numerous large-scale, mixed-use developments throughout North America.
Natasha Koifman | NKPR | MODERATOR
Natasha Koifman created NKPR in 2002 to combine her two passions: sharing stories of substance and championing important causes. Under Natasha’s guidance and leadership, NKPR has established itself as a highly-regarded full-service public relations, advertising, talent, marketing, and digital agency with offices in Toronto and New York, representing over 40 diverse national and international brands.
Recognized as one of Canada’s most powerful and innovative women in public relations, a sought-after speaker and commentator on public relations, business, marketing, popular culture, and fashion, Natasha is a member of the Forbes Business Council and a frequent contributor.
Believing strongly in giving back, Natasha is the Chair of the Board of Artists for Peace and Justice in Canada and the US, and has been instrumental in raising over 35 million dollars to support the people and youth of Haiti over the last 15 years. She also supports various other charities working to improve the lives of others.
12:30pm
Unleashing your Creative Potential
12:30-12:45
Location: On the Runway
Enter a journey of creative exploration in the world of fashion with Jason Cameron as he unlocks your imaginative potential.
JASON CAMERON | Toronto Fashion Academy
Starting off within the entertainment industry as a Fashion Stylist, Fashion Show Choreographer, Events Coordinator, Acting / Modeling Agent & Booker, Instructor and Life Style Coach. JC has been in the Entertainment and Fashion Industry for the last 24years.
Having worked on bringing International fashion week into Toronto called International Fashion Encounter as well as supporting local designers by giving them a platform to showcase their talent, along with being the co-founder of SuperModel Canada Search as well as working on several other concerts, Charity Fundraisers & gala’s. I helped lead Toronto Fashion Academy from one location in Toronto, Canada to 4 around the world! He has been honored with a plaque from the United Nations Women National Committee Canada for outstanding support, while supporting and endorsing several charities and human rights organizations.
Anthony Sirianni | Living Luxe| MODERATOR
Anthony Sirianni is the chief operating officer of Living Luxe magazine, a high-end design and lifestyle magazine on newsstands across the province. He is also the co-founder of the Living Luxe Media Group. Prior to stepping into the world of magazines and launching Living Luxe, Anthony was a leader in the management and operation of several companies, working to improve their strategic execution and maximize their overall performance. He brings these exceptional skills to the magazine and media company, acts as a visionary when it comes to the brand’s growth and goals. For instance, Anthony initiated the first-ever Living Luxe Design Expo, a successful event showcasing some of the city’s top design and decor businesses. While Living Luxe is his current priority, a key milestone for him was in 2011, when he fulfilled one of his childhood dreams and became a certified firefighter in Texas. Anthony loves spending time with his daughter, hanging out with his family and friends, working out, golfing and vacationing.
1:00pm
Disrupting Design with JennAir
1:00-2:00
Location: On the Jennair Main Stage
Learn how Brenda Danso and Aleem Kassam disrupt traditional design norms through innovative perspectives and cutting-edge solutions in collaboration with Jennair.
Brenda Danso
Meet Brenda, the Californian expat and founder of BD Interior Design, seamlessly navigating both residential and commercial design. In her distinctive dual role as a designer and mental health therapist, Brenda infuses a holistic approach into her work. As a Design Expert on Citytv’s Cityline, she’s earned recognition for insightful contributions. Brenda’s presence on Living Luxe magazine’s design series cover, collaborations with Architectural Digest for their ‘Iconic Home showcase’ and a partnership with Mercedes in an ad further highlight Brenda’s diverse influence, while her influential voice continues to inspire balanced living.
Aleem Kassam
Aleem started his path in Interior Design in 2004 by obtaining a formal education at the Art Institute of Vancouver. He soon found himself with a desire for adventure and furthered his education abroad at the Art Institute of Chicago to obtain a Bachelors Degree of Interior Design & Sustainable Interior Architecture. He then attended the Domus Academy in Milan for Hospitality Design and the school of Central Saint Martins in London for Retail Design. This Global perspective inspired Aleem’s taste for design and personal style. Aleem is a fixture in both the Interior Design Industry as well as a style icon (he was named one of Canada’s best dressed in 2017.) He has made various media appearances and has been involved in designing well-known spaces both locally and abroad.
“Design has no borders, nor should we or our interiors.” -Aleem Kassam
Ian Rolston | MODERATOR
Ian Rolston is a design strategist, foresighter, speaker, and humanist. He has collaborated with leaders of industry across three continents and has worked for transformative companies in commercial real estate and design in Canada and the US, before establishing his own strategic innovation and intervention studio, Decanthropy, specializing in multi-dimensional design. Rolston believes that design can reshape possible for resilient people, processes, places, teams, organizations, communities, and futures. It is the role of Precipitant, as the founder of Decanthropy, that inspires Rolston’s engagement with social enterprises, private and public sectors, businesses, community, and industry.
Rolston speaks internationally, sharing his perspective on designing connected enterprises, experiences, and environments. Rolston has shared his messages to audiences across Canada, the US, and in Europe to inspire personal wellness, reconciliation, equity, and change by design. An advocate for emerging talent, Ian is a proud board member of Jenn-Air’s Disrupting Design program addressing systemic barriers to create better access and opportunities for Black, Indigenous, and racialized designers in the industry. He and his associates approach design differently to help executives, boards, committees, and directors strengthen strategies to solve the right problems at the right time. His emerging studio, Decanthropy, optimizes market advantages for clients, to strengthen their resiliency in a world full of uncertainty…so they can do what they do better.
2:30PM
Expert Panel Discussion with Renowned Architect Richard Wengle & Luxury Designers Robin & Harvey of Wise Nadel Design
2:30-3:15
Location: On the Jennair Main Stage
Experience an engaging conversation with Richard Wengle, Robin Nadel and Harvey Wise, offering profound insights and expertise on the intersection of architecture and luxury design.
Harvey Wise | Wise Nadel Design
For the past two decades, the name Harvey Wise has been synonymous with high-end interior design in Toronto. What few may know, however, is that his path to the top of the city’s design world has been anything but traditional.
Harvey spent the first 20 years of his career in the competitive sphere of advertising, marketing, and product design. Over these years, Harvey’s business interests often ran in close proximity to an emerging passion for interior design. Combining his entrepreneurial spirit, business acumen, and a keen eye for transitional design, his eponymous firm – Harvey Wise Design – was brought to fruition in 2004.
In 2018, again exemplifying his twin passions for business and design, Harvey merged firms with longtime colleague and confidant Robin Nadel to bring Wise Nadel Design to the forefront of Toronto’s interior design scene.
Harvey’s contribution to the city’s design landscape is indisputable. His influence is felt in the myriad of stately homes that line the streets of Toronto’s most affluent neighbourhoods, and in the upcoming generation of talented young designers, many of whom honed their crafts in his cultivating orbit.
Robin Nadel | Wise Nadel Design
While classically trained in architecture, Robin Nadel has made her indelible mark on Toronto’s increasingly talented and competitive world of interior design.
Robin earned her stripes working in some of the city’s most prestigious designer firms, collecting the wealth of knowledge and experience necessary to found Robin Nadel Design in 2009. After a decade of sustained growth and influence, she merged with longtime friend and colleague Harvey Wise to launch Wise Nadel Design in 2018. With the firm’s circle of influence expanding with every passing year, Robin’s trademark designs have become ever-present, from luxury single-family estates to multi-unit and high-rise developments.
Today, Robin boasts an untarnished reputation as one of Toronto’s most trusted and admired designers. Known for her innate ability to see past the surface of the home, she looks deeper, to the story of the home, which in turn informs the structure, the design, and the finish. Now, with over 25 years of industry experience, Robin’s signature is upon every bespoke detail in some of Toronto’s great houses. Her rise to prominence has not been meteoric, but rather steady and true, driven by hard work, dedication, and an unparalleled commitment to her craft and to her clientele.
Richard Wengle | Richard Wengle Architect Inc.
Richard Wengle founded the firm of Richard Wengle Architect Inc. in 1992 to better engage the practice of architecture on the basis of uncompromising design quality. Mr. Wengle is a graduate of the University of Toronto School of Architecture, and has been a member of the Ontario Association of Architects and the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada since 1987.
Upon his graduation in 1983, Mr. Wengle joined the firm of Kirshenblatt Korman Associates (currently known as Kirkor Architects) as project architect in charge of design and contract administration of commercial, institutional and residential commissions. While at this firm, he worked principally with private commercial development groups that included H & R Developments, Murray Goldman Real Estate, Wor-Mark Development and The A.M.M.E. Group.
Mr. Wengle was also responsible for obtaining municipal approvals including Committee of Adjustment, re-zoning and official plan amendments. Consequently, Mr. Wengle dealt with many ratepayers’ associations throughout the Greater Toronto area, namely Rosedale, Four Quadrants, Kingston Road, Walmer Road, Armour Heights and Oakville. As well, he worked extensively with non-profit organizations such as City Home, Metro Toronto Housing Company Ltd., York University Day Care Co-op, and LACAC in Oakville.
Since founding his own practice, Mr. Wengle has established his practice on the basis of outstanding architectural designs that are aesthetically appropriate for the context and the development, and of optimizing construction budget and site or neighbourhood constraints. Mr. Wengle has worked with clients, neighbourhood groups and ratepayers’ associations throughout Canada, the United States, the Caribbean and the United Arab Emirates. In the Greater Toronto Area, Mr. Wengle is well-known for award-winning designs for custom and leisure residences, clubhouses and recreational facilities, with locations including Lawrence Park, Forest Hill, Cricket Club, Rosedale, the Kingsway, King Township, the Muskokas, Halton Hills and Caledon Hills.
Jennifer Lipkowitz | Living Luxe | MODERATOR
Jennifer Lipkowitz is the publisher of Living Luxe, a high-end design and lifestyle magazine on newsstands across the province, and co-founder of the Living Luxe Media Group. Before launching the magazine in 2019, Jennifer spent a decade as the chief operating officer of a well-respected Toronto-based publication, and was a driving force when the magazine expanded across Canada and into Florida. She exited the publication to explore new opportunities—the creation of Living Luxe is the result of her work in not only the publishing community, but in the building and design industries. Jennifer is very passionate about philanthropy and giving back, and takes part in many fundraising events in the city. In 2022, she was the co-chair of Living Luxe’s first-ever charity initiative, City Couture—an event that benefitted Toronto’s SickKids. When she isn’t busy running two successful companies with her stellar team, Jennifer enjoys spending time with her two children, her family and friends.
Anthony Sirianni | Living Luxe| MODERATOR
Anthony Sirianni is the chief operating officer of Living Luxe magazine, a high-end design and lifestyle magazine on newsstands across the province. He is also the co-founder of the Living Luxe Media Group. Prior to stepping into the world of magazines and launching Living Luxe, Anthony was a leader in the management and operation of several companies, working to improve their strategic execution and maximize their overall performance. He brings these exceptional skills to the magazine and media company, acts as a visionary when it comes to the brand’s growth and goals. For instance, Anthony initiated the first-ever Living Luxe Design Expo, a successful event showcasing some of the city’s top design and decor businesses. While Living Luxe is his current priority, a key milestone for him was in 2011, when he fulfilled one of his childhood dreams and became a certified firefighter in Texas. Anthony loves spending time with his daughter, hanging out with his family and friends, working out, golfing and vacationing.
4:00PM
In Full Colour: Using Colour Theory & Artful Inspiration in Your Interior Design
4:00-4:30
Location: On the Jennair Main Stage
Discover the power of colour theory and artful inspiration in shaping enchanting living spaces with Andrea McMullen of ADM Design & Emily Grundy of Sherwin-Williams Canada.
Andrea McMullen | ADM Design
Since 1991, Andrea McMullen has been a highly accomplished figure in the luxury and lifestyle industry, making a significant impact as a designer, construction firm, and art broker. Andrea has designed numerous luxury model homes, vacation homes, commercial and corporate design. Beyond her impressive design portfolio, Andrea has successfully established three retail stores in Ontario.
Andrea’s expertise extends across various aspects of the industry, showcasing her talent for building, home additions, renovations, and staging for resale. Her outstanding work has gained international recognition, earning features on design shows and in many publications. Andrea’s designs stand as a testament to her unwavering commitment to creating spaces that encapsulate a high quality of living.
Emily Grundy | Sherwin-Williams Canada
In her professional career, Emily is the Division Manager of Design at Sherwin-Williams, in this role she has national responsibility for the designer marketing strategy and execution. She is dedicated to the exploration of colour and trends with the Sherwin-Williams colour forecast team. She supports the residential interior designer market with colour and paint specifications, while providing continuing education for designers and industry partners. She is an industry partner of the Interior Designers of Canada (IDC) and is on the National Board of Directors for the Decorators and Designers Association of Canada (DDA) and the Colour Research Society of Canada (CRSC).
Diana Pires | Diana Pires Events | MODERATOR
As Show Director & Award Winning Wedding Planner, Diana is one of the most sought out Event Planners and Designers in the GTA and beyond. She has been featured in Living Luxe Magazine, The Kit, and Breakfast Television, and is known for her unsurpassed quality, dependability, and client satisfaction.
Diana has an abundance of experience in large-scale events, including tradeshows, galas, corporate launches, and many more exciting projects. She excels at carefully curating every aspect of an event; from designing inspirational experiential areas, to creating unforgettable guest experiences. Diana brings her clients’ vision to life in every way possible.
Philanthropy is something she believes in whole-heartedly; the love of humanity is what drives her to do her part in helping others. The Sick Kids Foundation is an organization close to her heart and she is proud to be one of their long-time donors, making a difference in the lives of children.
Diana speaks publicly throughout Toronto and the GTA on a variety of topics, such as women in business, event planning, and design and is always looking to share her expertise with those around her.
11:00AM
Get Inspired with Renowned Designer Michael London
11:00-11:30
Location: On the Jennair Main Stage
Learn how Michael London “beautifies the world” with his culturally inspired, immersive designs.
Michael London | Founder & Owner | Michael London Design
‘Beautify the World’ With an impressive portfolio of multi-unit residences, commercial spaces influenced by luxury brands, and private homes in some the most prestigious neighborhoods of Toronto, Ottawa, and New York, Michael London Design boasts a strong presence in the design world drawing from over two decades of experience. Michael London has established himself as a wellrespected figure in the Toronto interior design community, working with both residential clients and developers.
At the heart of Michael London Design is a passion for creating culturally inspired designs that are truly exceptional. This philosophy drives us to constantly push boundaries and create one-of-a-kind interiors. Thanks to his unique style and innovative approach, Michael has earned numerous awards and recognition, including an ARIDO (Association of Registered Interior Designers of Ontario) award and two ARIDO President Citation awards, as well as two BILD (Building Industry and Land Development Association) awards.
In 2021, Michael London Design was honored with the Bild Award for “Best Long Video” and “Best Mid-Rise Building Design” for their work on the 10 Prince Arthur Commercial Project. Additionally, Michael has made appearances on multiple segments of The Marilyn Dennis Show, showcasing various projects, and sharing style tips and tricks. He also participated as a panelist at the Interior Design Show in 2023 hosted by Gray Magazine.
Recognized as one of the top Black Interior Designers, Michael had the privilege of designing the Mother In-Law Suite for Architectural Digest and Black Interior Designers ICONIC HOME 2023, and was also featured in ICONIC HOME Interiors, Advice, and Stories from 50 Amazing Black Designers. In 2024, Michael London Design also had the honor of designing the Miele booth at the International Design Show Toronto, which won the “Fave Booth Award” presented by Style and Home Magazine.
Michael London Design will continue to ‘Beautify the World’ with his unique eye for design and meticulous attention to detail.
Jennifer Lipkowitz | Living Luxe | MODERATOR
Jennifer Lipkowitz is the publisher of Living Luxe, a high-end design and lifestyle magazine on newsstands across the province, and co-founder of the Living Luxe Media Group. Before launching the magazine in 2019, Jennifer spent a decade as the chief operating officer of a well-respected Toronto-based publication, and was a driving force when the magazine expanded across Canada and into Florida. She exited the publication to explore new opportunities—the creation of Living Luxe is the result of her work in not only the publishing community, but in the building and design industries. Jennifer is very passionate about philanthropy and giving back, and takes part in many fundraising events in the city. In 2022, she was the co-chair of Living Luxe’s first-ever charity initiative, City Couture—an event that benefitted Toronto’s SickKids. When she isn’t busy running two successful companies with her stellar team, Jennifer enjoys spending time with her two children, her family and friends.
Anthony Sirianni | Living Luxe| MODERATOR
Anthony Sirianni is the chief operating officer of Living Luxe magazine, a high-end design and lifestyle magazine on newsstands across the province. He is also the co-founder of the Living Luxe Media Group. Prior to stepping into the world of magazines and launching Living Luxe, Anthony was a leader in the management and operation of several companies, working to improve their strategic execution and maximize their overall performance. He brings these exceptional skills to the magazine and media company, acts as a visionary when it comes to the brand’s growth and goals. For instance, Anthony initiated the first-ever Living Luxe Design Expo, a successful event showcasing some of the city’s top design and decor businesses. While Living Luxe is his current priority, a key milestone for him was in 2011, when he fulfilled one of his childhood dreams and became a certified firefighter in Texas. Anthony loves spending time with his daughter, hanging out with his family and friends, working out, golfing and vacationing.
1:00PM
The Making of a Brand with Globally Recognized Interior Designer Lori Morris
1:00-2:00
Location: On the Jennair Main Stage
Learn how Lori Morris’s enchanting designs have earned her international recognition in the realm of design.
Lori Morris | Founder & Owner | Lori Morris Design
For thirty-six years, Lori Morris has been reinventing the standard in interior design. A creative tour-de-force that embraces a forward-thinking philosophy. Lori is an award winning, ‘no rules’ artist who parlays a unique and unyielding take on sumptuous interior design, with a sexy, distinctive edge.
Based in Toronto, Canada, Lori leads an extensive team of professionals in-house and abroad in the creation of her award-winning spaces. Her work has been featured in Architectural Digest, Elle Décor, Marie Claire Maison Italia, Forbes, The Wall Street Journal and many others.
In 2021, Michael London Design was honored with the Bild Award for “Best Long Video” and “Best Mid-Rise Building Design” for their work on the 10 Prince Arthur Commercial Project. Additionally, Michael has made appearances on multiple segments of The Marilyn Dennis Show, showcasing various projects, and sharing style tips and tricks. He also participated as a panelist at the Interior Design Show in 2023 hosted by Gray Magazine.
Recognized as one of the top Black Interior Designers, Michael had the privilege of designing the Mother In-Law Suite for Architectural Digest and Black Interior Designers ICONIC HOME 2023, and was also featured in ICONIC HOME Interiors, Advice, and Stories from 50 Amazing Black Designers. In 2024, Michael London Design also had the honor of designing the Miele booth at the International Design Show Toronto, which won the “Fave Booth Award” presented by Style and Home Magazine.
Michael London Design will continue to ‘Beautify the World’ with his unique eye for design and meticulous attention to detail.
Jennifer Lipkowitz | Living Luxe | MODERATOR
Jennifer Lipkowitz is the publisher of Living Luxe, a high-end design and lifestyle magazine on newsstands across the province, and co-founder of the Living Luxe Media Group. Before launching the magazine in 2019, Jennifer spent a decade as the chief operating officer of a well-respected Toronto-based publication, and was a driving force when the magazine expanded across Canada and into Florida. She exited the publication to explore new opportunities—the creation of Living Luxe is the result of her work in not only the publishing community, but in the building and design industries. Jennifer is very passionate about philanthropy and giving back, and takes part in many fundraising events in the city. In 2022, she was the co-chair of Living Luxe’s first-ever charity initiative, City Couture—an event that benefitted Toronto’s SickKids. When she isn’t busy running two successful companies with her stellar team, Jennifer enjoys spending time with her two children, her family and friends.
Anthony Sirianni | Living Luxe| MODERATOR
Anthony Sirianni is the chief operating officer of Living Luxe magazine, a high-end design and lifestyle magazine on newsstands across the province. He is also the co-founder of the Living Luxe Media Group. Prior to stepping into the world of magazines and launching Living Luxe, Anthony was a leader in the management and operation of several companies, working to improve their strategic execution and maximize their overall performance. He brings these exceptional skills to the magazine and media company, acts as a visionary when it comes to the brand’s growth and goals. For instance, Anthony initiated the first-ever Living Luxe Design Expo, a successful event showcasing some of the city’s top design and decor businesses. While Living Luxe is his current priority, a key milestone for him was in 2011, when he fulfilled one of his childhood dreams and became a certified firefighter in Texas. Anthony loves spending time with his daughter, hanging out with his family and friends, working out, golfing and vacationing.
2:30PM
The Value of Professional Expertise – Why you need an Interior Designer
2:30-3:00
Location: On the Jennair Main Stage
An insightful panel discussion by ARIDO moderated by Sharon Portelli featuring Interior designers Michelle Mawby & Cori Halpern on navigating the intricacies of interior design projects and the value of hiring a professional.
Michelle Mawby
Michelle Mawby is a Registered Interior Designer with over 20 years experience in residential interior design and construction. She is Principal of the interior design and architecture team at Georgian Design Build and founder of Lucid Interior Design.
Based in Toronto, Michelle has previously lived and worked in Amsterdam, London, England, California and Vancouver. An award winning interior designer, NCIDQ certified ARIDO & IDC member, and BCIN qualified designer, Michelle is also a nationally renowned design expert frequently called on to share her expertise and knowledge on TV and in print.
An advocate of the philosophy, “form follows function”, Michelle strives to create environments that reflect the lives, personalities and expectations of her clients. Her extensive travels and continuing studies in design, history and architecture influence her designs culminating in sophisticated, livable elegance. One of Michelle’s lifelong goals is to one day showcase her impressive shoe collection at the Bata Shoe Museum.
Cori Halpern
Cori Halpern is a Registered Interior Designer who is passionate about creating custom interiors that delight her clients with a joyful mix of colour, pattern, texture and considered details. Established in 1996, Cori Halpern Interiors is a Toronto-based firm specializing in high-end, full service residential interior design.
The studio creates one of a kind, highly personal interiors that are as unique as each client. Hallmarks of Cori’s work include custom millwork and furnishings, an adept marriage of classic and contemporary elements, and attention to the little things that make a house a home. A graduate of Toronto’s TMU (formerly Ryerson) School of Interior Design, Cori is proudly affiliated with ARIDO, NCIDQ, IDC and NKBA. She has been published in Style at Home and House & Home magazines, was nominated for the 2023 House & Home of the Year, and appears on the inaugural list of House & Home Top 100 Designers to Watch.
Sharon Portelli | Moderator
Sharon has worked in the not-for-profit sector since 1997, starting in the financial sector with the Institute for Advanced Financial Education. In 2011, she transitioned to the design and construction sector in the role of Executive Director and Registrar with the Association of Registered Interior Designers of Ontario (ARIDO).
Her professional experience includes the development and enforcement of qualification standards for professions, regulatory frameworks and lobbying for public policy in support of safe interior environments in Ontario. Starting in 2014, Sharon led several projects intended to provide a more inclusive and fair pathway into qualifying as an interior designer in Ontario through competencies-based frameworks. In 2020, ARIDO undertook a commitment to the advancement of equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility within ARIDO as an organization, the profession and the community.
9:00AM – 1:00PM
Buzz Luxury Secrets
Location: On the Jennair Main Stage
9:00am – 10:00am
Coffee/Tea Welcome
9:45am – 10:05am
Welcome Talk
Richard Silver Co – Host
REALM GLOBAL, a MEMBERSHIP DRIVEN PLATFORM of THE HIGH NETWORTH & THE ART OF SILENT LUXURY
10:05am – 10:35am
The Purveyors of Luxury Real Estate in Canada – EAST vs WEST & CENTRAL TORONTO, the most affluent neighborhoods, price points and working with luxury specialists.
Barry Cohen, Gillian Oxley & Michael Phinney
Moderator – Richard Silver
10:35am – 11:00am
A Fireside Chat with Cailey Heaps & The Lobby, a community-driven, lifestyle-oriented extension of The Heaps Estrin Team.
Moderator – Stefani Konidis
11:00am – 11:30am
LUXURY SPECIALISTS – FROM PRE-CON LUXURY TO NEW LUXURY HOME BUILDS TO DESTINATION ISLANDS & LUXURY RESORT LIVING – What is important to Luxury Clients?
Laura Compagni, Shamon Campbell, Debbie Cosic
Moderator – Ken Mazurek
11:30am – 12:00pm
The Luxury Mindset & Delivering Extraordinary Client Experiences
Caily Heaps, April Papousek, Martinus Geleynse
Moderator – Stefani Konidis
12:00pm – 12:30pm
Luxury Real Estate Innovators & Next Level Marketing Strategies
Dorian Rodrigues, Anna Oliver, Dan Kligman
Moderator – Ken Mazurek
12:30pm – 1:00pm
CORCORAN GROUP – A Discerning Luxury Brokerage and their Stamp of Service comes to Canada from Manhattan, New York
Cliff Rego & Adrienne Lake
Moderator – Host Virginia Munden
2:00PM
Inside the Creative Mind of Internationally Acclaimed Designer Karim Rashid
2:00-3:15
Location: On the Jennair Main Stage
Step into the creative mind of Karim Rashid, and discover the secrets behind his designs that made him the “Prince of Plastic.”