After temporarily being put on hold due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the ARIDO (Association of Registered Interior Designers of Ontario) Awards will return to an in-person format this fall.
The 40th edition of the ARIDO Awards will take place this year at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel in Toronto on Oct. 5, 2023.
This year’s event will recognize projects in the categories Care, Eat+ Stay, Learn, Work, and the annual categories of Craft, Distinct, and Preserve+ Restore.
Additionally, some time will be taken to reflect on the past 40 years and celebrate the history of the awards.
Since 1982, ARIDO has held an annual awards program for all registered members. In 2020, ARIDO paused the existing awards program and underwent a review to develop a new, improved program for 2021 and beyond. The improved awards program focuses on engaging ARIDO membership equally while celebrating the diverse community of interior designers.
ARIDO is also introducing additional criteria in its updated awards program to acknowledge member-designed projects that promote or tackle equity, diversity, accessibility, and inclusion. These criteria may encompass projects showcasing support for marginalized or underrepresented communities, advancements in community benefits, or alignment with ARIDO’s strategic mission for more inclusive practices.
Last year’s awards gala was a hybrid event that featured a livestreamed ceremony hosted by Jennifer Valentyne. The 17 winning projects were celebrated by the ARIDO community through satellite events held in industry showrooms and offices across the province.
The gala was also the closing event of Interior Design Week, organized by ARIDO to elevate the community, promote collaboration, and showcase excellence in interior design.
Tickets for this year’s gala event will open soon.