This September we had the absolute honour of being awarded the “Best Interior Design Scheme - Canada” at the International Design & Architecture Awards in London, England. With Jenelle already having committed to an engagement, she unfortunately was unable to attend the awards, so Stephanie went to represent the SmithErickson team with her Mom,Beverly, in tow. Read on to hear about their experience…
Stephanie and her mom, Beverly.
The trip to London was a whirlwind few days but we were determined to take in all the sights. What better way to spend your first day in London after a long red-eye flight with little sleep than to venture all around the city on a Hop on Hop of Bus. While tiring, it proved to be a great way to pack in the highlights in a short period of time and we took in the magnificent architecture while exploring the many different boroughs of London.
The next day we headed out to the countryside to see a different side of England and were just taken by the Cotswolds. The villages were charming with centuries-old stone walls and cottages set among rolling hills; it looked straight out of a Hallmark movie (my guilty pleasure)! The craftsmanship, attention to detail and heritage materials and colours will continue to inspire.
We could have spent days museum hopping but had the pleasure of walking through the Natural History Museum and deep diving into the art world at the Victoria & Albert Museum which is the world’s largest Arts & Design Museum. From the beautiful building itself to the many displays and original art by artists I have only read about, it was a sensory overload. And in true English fashion we ended our day exploring the exhibits with a lovely high tea.
Now what you have all been waiting for…the awards day! The experience was like no other, as we pulled up to the impressive hotel that was hosting the awards ceremony, I had to pinch myself. The red carpet was rolled out, people milling about dressed to impress and cameras flashing. Was this a dream? The evening flew by in a daze with a total of 66 awards presented.
We were shortlisted for two categories; Interior Design Scheme Canada and Kitchen over $100K. As each category was announced, we had the pleasure of viewing images of the shortlisted projects and were awed by the stunning work and different perspectives from designers close to home and worldwide alike.
To be among such talent was an honour in itself, but when I heard them say “… and the winner is, SmithErickson Designs” I was overcome with so many emotions. Shock, joy and excitement were just a few followed by nervous that I now had to go up on stage to accept the award and say a few words. I can’t recall saying much more than “Wow, thank you!”
Thankful. Above all, thankful. That I have the privilege of having such a stellar partner in Jenelle.
Thankful for our incredible clients, for our amazing team and the trades & suppliers that all have a hand in bringing our projects to life. Thankful for the friends and family that have supported us through our journey and to have my Mom by my side with the biggest smile on her face and a tear in both of our eyes.
