Ever wonder what interior design work garners the laurels? Here’s a look at the fabulous winners of the Canadian Decorator’s Association (CDECA) awards. According to the judges, entrants for 2009 were of an impressively high caliber all around — as evidenced by the tie in one category, an unexpected occurrence for this event. Very contemporary styles with modern clean lines were dominant this year. If you happen to be a fan of home magazines, the overall themes may look familiar to you - updated, yet classic and enduring. However, the judges weren’t merely scoring on looks alone as eco-friendly and sustainability factors of the projects were equally important considerations.

A small warning before you proceed — these before and afters may inspire the urge to update your decor, or even more so, make one desirous of hiring professional talent. Much appreciation to Tobi Brockway, CDECA Director of Marketing, for providing the details and images.

Awards Ceremony (and winners) images by Dana St. Louis Photography.

Category: Renovation

1st Valerie Rowley Schomberg, Ontario (pictured with presenter Tim Craik)

Bedroom Before

Bedroom After

Bedroom Before

Bedroom After

Ensuite Bathroom Before

Ensuite Bathroom After

2nd (Tie) Sharyn Kastelic North York, Ontario

Kitchen Before

Kitchen After

2nd (Tie) Camille Savage Vancouver, BC

Dining Room Before

Dining Room after

Category: New Construction

1st Lisa Geisler North Bay, Ontario (with presenter Marianne Fenniger)

The Winning Loft

2nd Christina Mogk Etobicoke, Ontario

Studio Before

Studio After

Category: Interior Decoration < $25,000

1st Victoria McKenney Vancouver, BC (pictured with presenters Laila Radage at left, and Sara Nadeau)

bedroom before

Bedroom After

2nd Elizabeth Metcalfe Caledon, Ontario

Living Room Before

Living Room After

Category: Interior Decoration > $25,000

1st Lisa Geisler, North Bay

hobby room before                                                               hobby room after

2nd Christina Mogk Etobicoke, Ontario

bar before                                                                    bar after

About CDECA

The Canadian Decorators’ Association (CDECA) is a professional not-for-profit association representing both Student and Accredited decorators and designers, and Affiliate businesses across Canada. Its goal is to foster the growth of the decorating industry in Canada; provide advocacy respecting policy matters; promote a positive image of the industry through proactive activities and events; and offer its members continuous upgrading of skills and knowledge. Visit www.cdeca.com.