October 9 + 10, 2024
Palais des Congrès de Montréal, Québec
October 9 + 10, 2024
Palais des Congrès de Montréal, Québec
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Palais des Congrès de Montréal, Québec
October 9 + 10, 2024
Palais des Congrès de Montréal, Québec
Participate in free conferences organized with INDEX-DESIGN and those of exhibitors including product presentations, training, and networking sessions.
Manon Leblanc, Founder of Manon Leblanc Maison, Producer and Public Figure
For over 25 years, Manon Leblanc has been a well-known personality in Quebec, with more than 600 major renovations to her credit, shared with many viewers on television. A designer specializing in kitchen and bathroom renovations and interior design, Manon is also a creator of decorative surface products through Manon Leblanc Design.
TRENDS 2025 AND INNOVATIONS IN KITCHEN DESIGN: SURFACES, FUNCTIONALITY, AND SOPHISTICATED SOLUTIONS
Discover the emerging trends in kitchen design, including innovations in surface products and materials for construction, with a particular focus on practical and design solutions that redefine the aesthetics and functionality of living spaces. The discussion will cover the latest advancements in hard surfaces, new technologies, integrated storage with sophisticated mechanisms, transforming kitchens into true masterpieces of practicality and design.
11:30 AM – 12:15 AM Uniboard – Laurence Keighan
Laurence Keighan – Marketing Project Manager ar Uniboard
As a Marketing Project Manager at Uniboard for over two years, Laurence Keighan oversees all marketing initiatives, from trade shows to digital marketing, including sample programs and the launch of new collections. A graduate in marketing and information technology from HEC, she is dedicated to enhancing Uniboard’s brand visibility among clients and partners by implementing innovative strategies to strengthen the company’s presence and impact in its industry.
TFL: Exceptional Design, Durability, and Sustainability in a High-Value Decorative Panel
TFL and its positive impact on the climate, as well as the carbon cycle.
11:30 AM- 12:15 AM Formica – Li Jun Radacovici & Christelle Locat-Rainville
Li Jun Radacovici
Li Jun Radacovici began her professional journey in 2014 with the Formica Group. In 2018, Li Jun embarked on a new chapter in her career by taking on the role of Architecture and Design Specialist serving the Montreal, Quebec, and Estrie regions. In 2019, she received the “Rookie of the Year” award, a testament to her contribution and dedication to the Formica Group. The Eastern Canada Team distinguished itself once again in 2023 with the “Region of the Year” award.
Christelle Locat-Rainville
After obtaining her degree in marketing, Christelle Locat-Rainville began her professional journey in the consumer goods manufacturing sector, then gained experience within a goods and services company. She joined Formica Canada in 2016 as Marketing Director to establish an effective communication strategy with both B2C and B2B audiences. Christelle collaborates with the Canadian sales team to meet the needs of clients across the country and develop marketing plans to promote the various brands of the Formica Group. With nearly 20 years of experience in marketing, Christelle shares her passion for sustainable development by leading the North America Green Team, sharing best practices and innovative new ideas in the two Formica Group plants.
Presentation of the 2024 Specialty Collection and Sustainable Developmen
12:30 PM – 1:15 PM Index-Design Pierre Mierski, Architect and Principal Partner at LemayMichaud
Graduated from the School of Architecture at the University of Montreal, Pierre Mierski has been an architect at LemayMichaud for the past 25 years and a principal partner since 2009. A talented design architect, he is recognized for his strength in rationalizing complex programs and translating them into spatial forms in a creative and innovative way.
WATERS OF LIFE: ARCHITECTURE AND DESIGN AT THE HEART OF THE NORDIC SPA EXPERIENCE
Nordic spas, spaces for relaxation and rejuvenation, allow users to reduce stress and reconnect with nature. Through various case studies, Pierre Mierski will share his expertise in designing spaces that respect and enhance the natural characteristics of a site, creating authentic environments that strengthen sensory escape.
1:30 PM – 2:00 PM Hettich Marc-André Hétu
Marc-André Hétu – Regional Sales Director
1999: Sales and Marketing Representative at Hettich
2017: Distribution Coordinator at Hettich
2017: Technical Support at Hettich
2018: Speaker at Expo Bois Design!!!
2020: Regional Sales Director
2022 to 2024: Speaker at Expo Bois Design!!!
Folding and Sliding Doors: Ergonomic Solutions Serving New Trends in Vertical Design
Appearance, convenience, and performance must be at the forefront when choosing the right door system for your project.
The revolutionary aesthetic appeal of virtual sliding and folding fascinates millions: a smooth, fluid motion at the touch of a finger.
In this presentation at Expo Bois Design 2024, Hettich is pleased to offer a wide range of fittings for a multitude of innovative solutions. Numerous sliding and folding door systems with different guiding modes provide solutions for all furniture construction applications. Door elements of all sizes and materials can be moved comfortably. The Silent System ensures a luxurious, cushioned closing and opening experience.
Three aspects, in particular, are important for consumers when it comes to door systems:
These elements will be presented in a dynamic and inspiring way to help you choose products for your future projects!
1:30 PM – 2:00 PM Tafisa – Caroline Leblanc & Simon Desrochers
Simon Desrochers
Simon Desrochers is the Director of Innovation and Product Development at Tafisa, a leading company in the manufacture of decorative surfaces. Simon studied industrial design at the University of Montreal and management at HEC Montreal. This unique combination of skills, his creative vision, his ability to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, and his attention to detail have contributed to Tafisa’s continued success for the past 7 years. His expertise and commitment make him a leader in his field.
Caroline Leblanc
Caroline Leblanc has been involved in the design world since 2009, initially as an interior designer and later focusing primarily on the role of kitchen designer. Caroline has 7 years of experience in specification at Tafisa, and for the past 4 years, she has been in charge of the specification team in Canada and the United States for Tafisa.
Passionate about both design and the pursuit of perfect ergonomics, finding the balance between the two has always been her greatest passion. Her experience as a project manager in cabinetry allows her to offer significant support and technical assistance in specifications to the community of architects and designers in project development.
Lummia 2024 Innovations
2:15 PM – 3:00 PM Index Design – Marie-Chantal Milette Kryptonie
Marie-Chantal had the opportunity to receive advanced training with Leatrice Eiseman, director of the Pantone® Color Institute and a global authority in color psychology and trend forecasting.
TREND PREDICTIONS 2025: THE TOP 5
Colors, shapes, materials, new style expressions, and materials—the top 5 trends that will influence 2025 and beyond, as interpreted by expert Marie-Chantal Milette.
3:00 PM – 3:30 PM Dorr Industrie – Audrey Rochon & Marc-Antoine Belisle
Audrey Rochon
After studying interior design and administration, Audrey followed in the footsteps of those around her and eventually joined the family business, DÖRR Industries, upon its creation in 2014. Initially working part-time during her studies and then full-time for the past few years, she has gained extensive knowledge and skills in production, product specifications, marketing, and customer service. Audrey stands out for her growing versatility within the organization, her attentiveness, and her attention to detail. Having grown up in the production and interior design fields, it’s safe to say she takes great pride in the high-quality Quebec products offered by DÖRR.
Marc-Antoine Belisle
With over 10 years of sales experience, Marc-Antoine is distinguished by his excellent customer service management. Upon completing his studies in commerce, accounting, and management, he stood out for his perseverance and determination. Over the years, he has gained experience in various sectors, including telecommunications, steel mills, and construction materials. His adaptability across different industries allows him to effectively identify the right business opportunities. At Dörr Industries, Marc-Antoine specializes primarily in selling the “FLUSHWALL” interior door system from the Integra Series.
2024 Specialty Launch and Sustainable Development
3:00 PM – 3:30 PM CHPVA – Carlos Zárate
Carlos Zárate
Carlos Zárate has been working in the wood industry for nearly 25 years, both in the domestic and international markets. He began his career as a buyer for a decorative plywood manufacturer and then progressed to a sales representative for one of North America’s leading manufacturers of rotary-cut hardwood veneer. His experience continues to grow as he is currently the president and co-owner of a well-established company specializing in veneer splicing. Additionally, he has been involved with the Canadian Plywood and Hardwood Veneer Association for over 15 years, serving as its president from 2016 to 2023, focusing on promoting the ecological advantages of real wood over synthetic substitutes.
Wood, It’s the Solution
MICHEL LAUZON, ARCH. MOAQ FELLOW RAIC, PRESIDENT & CEO OF LAAB COLLECTIVE
MICHEL LAUZON, Elected Fellow of the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (RAIC) in 2020 for his body of work, Michel Lauzon has over 25 years of experience in urban design, architecture, and interior design. Before founding LAAB in 2021, Michel was President of AEdifica after serving as Principal Partner of Creation at Lemay for 8 years.
FÉLIX ROBITAILLE, CO-FOUNDER AND MARKETING DIRECTOR AT COZEY
FÉLIX ROBITAILLE focuses on generating demand for the Cozey brand through digital marketing, out-of-home campaigns, and partnerships. Recently, Felix also developed Cozey’s retail program, including the new store in Toronto and a pop-up store in Quartier DIX30.
DANIEL OUELLET, SPECIAL ADVISOR IN STRATEGIC DESIGN, COSSETTE
DANIEL OUELLET, a strategic design consultant, has over 20 years of experience in strategy and human-centered design. A polymath strategist and designer, he has worked across a wide range of industries and challenges, always with the ambition to co-create relevant, distinctive, and resilient solutions.
FROM DIGITAL PRESENCE TO PHYSICAL SPACE: THE GENESIS OF THE COZEY FLAGSHIP STORE
From online presence to physical space, discover the genesis of the first store of the digitally native brand Cozey through the case study of the Toronto project, designed by LAAB architecture in collaboration with Cossette. From the brand, its products, the narrative framework of the layout to the execution, and thematic and material explorations, learn how the designers created a next-generation furniture store starting from the consumer experience.
Thursday, October 10
Pierrick Beaulieu Wojowicki: Winner of several competitions and scholarships during his studies, Pierrick obtained a bachelor’s degree in interior design from the University of Montreal in 2019. Passionate, creative, and inspired, his work harmoniously combines aesthetics and functionality to create remarkable and timeless spaces. Attentive and responsive, he takes great pleasure in developing designs that meet all the needs of his clients while infusing his own touch, often through powerful architectural gestures. According to him, each new project is a unique opportunity to explore new ideas and push the boundaries of his creativity.
Gatline Artis: Graduated from the University of Montreal in interior design in 2008, Gatline is a born perfectionist. Always working with rigor and passion to create refined concepts with a unique sensitivity, she has notably worked in several large Montreal firms before joining Entre Quatre Murs in 2015. Skilled with tight schedules and budgets, she competes with ingenuity and originality to always meet the demands of the projects she manages. Thanks to her natural leadership, she ensures rigorous and effective project follow-up so that objectives are always met in record time. Also holding a master’s degree in environmental design from the University of Montreal, she applies her expertise in environmental psychology every day to optimize the spaces she creates and the daily well-being of her clients.
HYPERPERSONALIZATION AND OPTIMIZATION OF RESIDENTIAL LIVING SPACES: FINDING THE BALANCE BETWEEN FUNCTIONALITY AND AESTHETICS
In the face of urban densification and rising real estate costs, limited living spaces have become unavoidable. Optimizing every square meter is therefore essential for comfort. This conference, led by two specialized interior designers, will show how to turn these constraints into opportunities to create functional environments without compromising aesthetics. Through various projects, practical tips, and smart material choices, the integration of discreet storage and multifunctional elements will be illustrated, among other concrete examples that combine creativity and ingenuity.
Marc-André Hétu – Regional Sales Director
1999: Sales and Marketing Representative at Hettich
2017: Distribution Coordinator at Hettich
2017: Technical Support at Hettich
2018: Speaker at Expo Bois Design!!!
2020: Regional Sales Director
2022 to 2024: Speaker at Expo Bois Design!!!
Folding and Sliding Doors: Ergonomic Solutions Serving New Trends in Vertical Design
Appearance, convenience, and performance must be at the forefront when choosing the right door system for your project.
The revolutionary aesthetic appeal of virtual sliding and folding fascinates millions: a smooth, fluid motion at the touch of a finger.
In this presentation at Expo Bois Design 2024, Hettich is pleased to offer a wide range of fittings for a multitude of innovative solutions. Numerous sliding and folding door systems with different guiding modes provide solutions for all furniture construction applications. Door elements of all sizes and materials can be moved comfortably. The Silent System ensures a luxurious, cushioned closing and opening experience.
Three aspects, in particular, are important for consumers when it comes to door systems:
These elements will be presented in a dynamic and inspiring way to help you choose products for your future projects!
10:30 AM – 11:00 AM Dorr Industries – Audrey Rochon and Marc-Antoine Belisle
Audrey Rochon
After studying interior design and administration, Audrey followed in the footsteps of those around her and eventually joined the family business, DÖRR Industries, upon its creation in 2014. Initially working part-time during her studies and then full-time for the past few years, she has gained extensive knowledge and skills in production, product specifications, marketing, and customer service. Audrey stands out for her growing versatility within the organization, her attentiveness, and her attention to detail. Having grown up in the production and interior design fields, it’s safe to say she takes great pride in the high-quality Quebec products offered by DÖRR.
Marc-Antoine Belisle
With over 10 years of sales experience, Marc-Antoine is distinguished by his excellent customer service management. Upon completing his studies in commerce, accounting, and management, he stood out for his perseverance and determination. Over the years, he has gained experience in various sectors, including telecommunications, steel mills, and construction materials. His adaptability across different industries allows him to effectively identify the right business opportunities. At Dörr Industries, Marc-Antoine specializes primarily in selling the “FLUSHWALL” interior door system from the Integra Series.
2024 Specialty Launch and Sustainable Development
Currently pursuing a PhD in Design History, Vanessa Sicotte is particularly well-positioned to examine the history of Quebec design through the feminist lens of women as space creators. Interiors have always been her most pressing professional concern, having dedicated her career to understanding, discussing, and sharing them. Her work draws on 15 years of experience as an interior designer in Montreal. During this period, she wrote two books on Quebec interiors (Éditions Cardinal 2015, 2018), amassed a vast photographic archive, authored hundreds of articles for interior design magazines, and hosted two television shows. Her blog, podcast, and social media platforms, under the pseudonym Damask & Dentelle, are currently where she shares her love for all things design.
DESIGN.HER: IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF DESIGN PIONEERS
Dive into the fascinating world of 20th-century design with Vanessa Sicotte, a key opinion leader in decoration and design historian. Explore the major styles, movements, and trends that shaped this period through the lens of visionary women. In a field long dominated by men, this conference highlights the remarkable and often overlooked contributions of great women designers. From bold pioneers to iconic figures, discover how these women paved the way for a generation of design professionals, including many from Quebec, who continue to inspire and influence the contemporary design world.
12:15 PM – 12:45 PM Husky Plywood – Jean-François Bertrand
Jean-François Bertrand
With over 20 years of experience in the decorative plywood industry, Jean-François Bertrand has held various positions ranging from production supervisor to director of continuous improvement. He is currently a technical sales representative at Husky Plywood for the American market.
Involved at all levels, from production to sales, Jean-François is an expert in veneering and decorative panels. He is skilled at simplifying concepts related to the use of wood veneer panels.”
Simply White Oak…
Another white oak project coming up?
Will we be able to meet our client’s demands?
What should we expect from the various cuts, grades, and assemblies?
With the growing popularity of white oak veneer, many of these questions often remain unanswered for cabinetmakers.
In this presentation, you’ll learn more about the famous white oak. You’ll then be able to offer the right product to your clients while ensuring the success of your project.
12h15 – 12h45 Uniboard – Joannie Denault
Joannie Denault – Architectural Specification Representative
Joannie Denault, with a background in Interior Design, has more than 15 years of experience as a Sales Representative in both architectural and design products. This extensive professional journey has allowed her to deepen her knowledge and fully understand the needs of architects, designers, and real estate developers. Her experience enables her to be as efficient as possible in this ever-evolving sector, which presents its share of challenges over time.
TFL & HPL COLLECTION – 2024 TRENDS
1:00 PM – 1:45 PM Index Design – Nicolas Lapierre, Co-founder of the architecture studio L’Abri
Nicolas Lapierre, Founding Partner of Atelier L’Abri, an architecture studio based in Montreal specializing in ecological, healthy, and sustainable construction. L’Abri advocates for innovative architectural solutions, emphasizing the well-being and human and social character of our environments. In 2024, Atelier L’Abri received the international “Best Young Firm” award in architecture at the Architizer’s A+Awards. Nicolas leads a research project on generative AI in architecture at L’Abri, supported by the Ministry of Economy, Innovation and Energy (MEIE). He also conducts training on the subject and was previously a project manager at BIG in New York and a teaching assistant at the University of Montreal.
COLLABORATE, DESIGN, AND BUILD WITH GENERATIVE AI
Explore the potential, opportunities, and limitations of current and developing AI tools for generating content, concepts, and plans; such as ChatGPT, Midjourney, Maket, etc. Learn to integrate these tools and collaborate with AI to increase the efficiency of your creative processes and the quality of your projects. Discover recent case studies that allow us to envision the daily life of architects and designers in the near future, including the research and development project: Building with AI. In the context of the climate crisis, the housing crisis, and the labor shortage, this project, led in Montreal by Atelier L’Abri and Maket Technologies and supported by the Ministry of Economy, Innovation and Energy, aims to demonstrate the effectiveness and potential of these technologies in designing and constructing sustainable, efficient, and affordable housing.
1:30 PM – 2:30 PM Formica – Johannie Sirois-Paquette
Johannie Sirois-Paquette
After obtaining her degree in Interior Design from the Academy of Art and Design in Montreal, Johannie ventured into the manufacturing sector, where she spent a decade mastering the intricacies of the field. Her practical experience has provided her with invaluable insights into the manufacturing processes, materials, and technologies essential to the world of interior design. Johannie took a significant step in her career by joining Formica Corporation. As an Architecture and Design Specialist at Formica Canada, Johannie collaborates with architects, designers, and manufacturers, offering her expertise in the selection and implementation of innovative and sustainable surface solutions; demonstrating her industry competence as well as her dedication to enhancing spaces through thoughtful and creative design choices.
Phenolic Resin Panels for Scientific and Demanding Applications
This presentation is eligible for a continuing education unit.
Phenolic resin panels are ideal materials for scientific and demanding uses. Following this presentation, you will be able to recognize high-pressure laminate and its properties, as well as understand two different types of decorative surfaces. You will discover the main applications of this surface and what makes it suitable for scientific environments. Finally, an overview of its sustainable character, testing, and certifications will be provided to familiarize you with these surfaces.
2:00 PM – 2:30 PM Tafisa – Simon Desrochers & Caroline Leblanc
Simon Desrochers
Simon Desrochers is the Director of Innovation and Product Development at Tafisa, a leading company in the manufacture of decorative surfaces. Simon studied industrial design at the University of Montreal and management at HEC Montreal. This unique combination of skills, his creative vision, his ability to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, and his attention to detail have contributed to Tafisa’s continued success for the past 7 years. His expertise and commitment make him a leader in his field.
Caroline Leblanc
Caroline Leblanc has been involved in the design world since 2009, initially as an interior designer and later focusing primarily on the role of kitchen designer. Caroline has 7 years of experience in specification at Tafisa, and for the past 4 years, she has been in charge of the specification team in Canada and the United States for Tafisa.
Passionate about both design and the pursuit of perfect ergonomics, finding the balance between the two has always been her greatest passion. Her experience as a project manager in cabinetry allows her to offer significant support and technical assistance in specifications to the community of architects and designers in project development.
Lummia 2024 Innovations
2:30 PM – 3h15 PM Index Design – Marie-Chantal Milette Kryptonie
Marie-Chantal had the opportunity to receive advanced training with Leatrice Eiseman, director of the Pantone® Color Institute and a global authority in color psychology and trend forecasting.
TREND PREDICTIONS 2025: THE TOP 5
Colors, shapes, materials, new style expressions, and materials—the top 5 trends that will influence 2025 and beyond, as interpreted by expert Marie-Chantal Milette.
3:30 PM – 4:00 PM AWMAC – Marie-Hélène Lafleur
Marie-hélène Lafleur
Marie-Hélène Lafleur is an accomplished professional with solid experience in various fields. Graduating with a degree in Hotel Management in 2001, she dedicated 20 years of her career to the wood veneer industry, developing in-depth expertise in this sector. Subsequently, she worked for a year in customer service for a company specializing in the manufacturing of presses and compactors, further enhancing her skills in customer relations and technical product management.
Since March 2023, Marie-Hélène Lafleur has been representing the Architectural Woodwork Manufacturers Association of Canada (AWMAC), Quebec chapter. In parallel, she administers the SIG program for this chapter, demonstrating her commitment to supporting excellence and quality in the industry.
Architectural Woodwork Standards and Support Program
Join us for a captivating conference dedicated to the presentation of the Architectural Woodwork Manufacturers Association of Canada (AWMAC). During this session, you will discover in detail the services offered by AWMAC, designed to support industry professionals in their pursuit of excellence. We will also explore the essential content of the AWMAC standards manual, an indispensable guide to ensuring quality and compliance in architectural woodwork projects. Don’t miss this opportunity to deepen your knowledge and strengthen your expertise.
3:30 PM – 4:00 PM Cosentino – Anthony Gonzales
Anthony Gonzales – Showroom Director
With over 10 years of experience in the stone industry, Anthony Gonzales has held various key positions at Cosentino before becoming the director of their showroom in Montreal. Known for his passion for design and expertise in customer experience, he takes pride in representing the interests of a company that is environmentally conscious and offers high-quality materials
Ecology and Sustainability for a World of Possibilities
This conference will help you understand the importance of ecological impact and the new environmental era in the world of compact and ultra-compact surfaces. We will also discuss the different types of materials offered and the various possible applications.
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