DDA Events

Upcoming events

    • 2026-07-22
    • 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
    • Zoom
    Register


    Welcome back to the Design Dialogue Speaker Series! 

    Join us for an engaging session on 'Selling for Design Pros" with Antonio Hellman, Founder and Creative Director of Studio 321B. 

    Many interior designers possess incredible creative talent but struggle with the sales process. Fear of rejection, uncertainty about pricing, and discomfort with self-promotion can hinder their ability to close deals and grow their businesses. 

    In this presentation, Antonio will help DDA members develop confidence and proper sales techniques to manage client expectations, sell luxury products, and sell the design concept to their clients. 

    The Details

    Date: July 22, 2026

    Time: 11:00 - 12:30 EST

    Location: Virtual, Zoom

    Ticket: Free for members, $15.00 for non-members

    About Antonio

    Founder and Creative Director of Studio 321B, Antonio is the son of Italian and Germanic immigrants who migrated to Canada when he was five years old.

    With over 30 years of hands-on experience in oriental rugs and flooring, Antonio brings a deep understanding of craftsmanship and custom creation. His career spans sales, management, and rug design, supported by formal design studies at Sheridan College, allowing him to collaborate seamlessly with designers, architects, and trade professionals.

    Driven by a lifelong love of colour and creativity, Antonio founded Studio 321B to introduce bold, one-of-a-kind pieces that bring warmth, emotion, and personality into living spaces.

    • 2026-07-22
    • 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM
    • PLOUTOS FLOORING 100, 120 West 3rd Avenue Vancouver, BC
    Register

    MIRAGE Floors Presents: BEYOND REFERRALS: Growing your business with AI

    What happens when your next client skips Google and asks ChatGPT who to hire? Join us for a practical session on Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) and how Al is transforming the way design professionals get discovered.

    Learn how to position your firm to appear in Al generated recommendations, strengthen your online authority, and create demand beyond traditional referral networks.

    Date: Wednesday, July 22nd, 2026
    Time: 9:00 AM - 10:30 PM
    Location: PLOUTOS FLOORING 100, 120 West 3rd Avenue Vancouver, BC







    • 2026-08-19
    • 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
    • Zoom

    Behind the Material: The Art of Renovation – Behind the Scenes

    Join us on August 19 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM (EST) for an insightful Behind the Material session with Mark, an experienced renovator.

    Renovation projects often involve much more than what is visible in the finished space. In this presentation, Mark will take us behind the scenes of the renovation process and share practical insights into the challenges, decisions, and important details that can affect the success of a project.

    Topics will include:

    • How to manage unexpected site challenges
    • How to choose the right contractor
    • Important questions to ask before starting a renovation
    • Common renovation mistakes and how to avoid them
    • Key considerations throughout the renovation process

    This session is ideal for designers and industry professionals who want a better understanding of how renovation projects are managed from planning through completion.

    Date: August 19
    Time: 11:00 AM–1:00 PM EST

    Save the date and join us for a practical and informative look at The Art of Renovation – Behind the Scenes.

    • 2026-10-01
    • 5:00 PM
    • Atrium at Ricarda's, 134 Peter Street Toronto, Ontario M5V 2H2, Canada
    Register

    Don’t Miss DDA's Premiere Event of the Year!


    Set within the striking Atrium at Ricarda’s, this year’s gala brings together the industry’s leading voices for a night of recognition, connection, and celebration. From emerging talent to established firms, we gather to honour the work shaping the future of design in Canada.


    Ticket Prices:


    DDA Member - Regular: $250

    DDA Non Member -  Regular: $300

    Student Member - Regular: $150

    Table of 10 -  Regular: $2,250

    Location: Atrium at Ricarda's. 134 Peter StreetToronto, Ontario M5V 2H2, Canada

    Date: October 1st
    Doors Open: 5:00 PM

    ✨ Get your tickets now, you won’t want to miss it!