Name: Kate Dickson 
Company: The Dickson Design Group
Position within company: Principal
Website: dicksondesigngroup.com
Tell us a little about your background in design (education, experience, etc)
Interior design has been in my blood forever — but it didn’t become my career until after I had spent a decade working in marketing and project management for several high-profile corporations.
After the birth of her my child in 2008, I left the corporate world to pursue my passion full-time. While raising two young children, I obtained my Interior Decorating Certificate from George Brown College — and the rest, as they say, is history. I have been helping Toronto families turn their houses into homes for the better part of a decade, and have built a thriving practice and a diverse portfolio of work.
How would you describe your personal design style?
I definitely gravitate to a more contemporary aesthetic. But I do ground my design in the timeless classics with hits of mid century modern.
Where does your design inspiration come from?
Travel, fashion and my local community. I love taking walks around my city taking in the old and new architecture. I love checking out the antique stores for historic and unique pieces that add character and uniqueness to a space as well as general furniture and decor stores to see what latest trends are emerging.
In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?
A more thoughtful process. Keeping the environment top of mind design is becoming more about what we need and making those items beautiful and functional.
If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to design schemes, what would it be?
Plan, plan, plan. If you plan your design scheme properly and thoroughly you will not be disappointed in the end. Even if you are not going to execute it all at one time. Be prepared to plan the full scope, all the rooms, and then tackle them as budget allows. This will insure you will achieve your vision with no regrets.
How important are The International Design & Architecture Awards?
Critical in supporting the design community. The awards help to celebrate and promote design around the world.
What projects are you currently working on?
Two home guts, a living room, two kitchens and a few small décor projects.
What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?
Work hard and stay safe.
Final thoughts; tell us a little more about yourself and your daily inspirations:
Your most treasured possession? My mums recipes.
Your favourite holiday destination? A beach somewhere
Your favourite hotel, restaurant & bar? Hotel Nelligan in Old Montreal, La Banane in Toronto for ambiance but nothing will beat Old York Fish and Chips in Toronto, anywhere that pours a great pint of Guinness.
Your favourite book & song? Where the Crawdads Sing, Diamonds on the soles of her shoes (Paul Simon)
Your favourite food and drink? Seafood, and its a tie between red wine and a Manhattan
Your favourite way to spend an afternoon?mA hike with my family followed by cocktail time.
If you weren’t a designer, what would you be? Chef, I love to cook
The Dickson Design Group have been shortlisted for Living Space – Canada Award in The International Design and Architecture Awards 2020.
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