Award

exhibited like artwork around the showroom. Stone and tiles were used in intricate patterns and configurations on the floor and walls to connect every element in the space. Since that time Hefele Makowka Design Associates has won a number of awards including three Tarrazzo, Tile, and Marble Association of Canada (TTMC) awards in 2001, 2003 and 2005, two Ontario Home Builders' Association awards in 2008 and 2010, and a BILD award in 2011. The most recent award was in 2011 when Hefele and Makowka won The Award of Excellence from the Association of Registered Interior Designers of Ontario (ARIDO) for the James Cooper Mansion Circa 1882 project in Toronto. The construction process of this project began in 2008 when the 800-ton house was lifted off its foundations and moved approximately 60 feet to make way for a new highrise structure. This was the largest residential structure relocation in Canadian history. "James Cooper Mansion was a very unique assignment for our firm," says Hefele. "Much of the interior architecture of the mansion was under heritage protection so opportunities for spatial manipulation were limited. Thoughtful space planning was instrumental in shaping the interiors into a modern, multi-functional amenities space." Hefele adds that it was different from other projects they had worked on previously because they were given the opportunity to renovate, restore and transform a heritage, landmark building for modern living and concurrently design the interiors for the new, upscale condominium tower. Over the years, the two partners have worked their magic on a multitude of design projects – innovatively conveying market trends into winning interiors. Hefele and Makowka have built lasting connections with many of their clients, including major North American developers and corporations. Both Hefele and Makowka are also strongly committed to the environment and have worked on a number LEEDaccredited Green Building developments including the LEED Silver Delmanor Northtown and the LEED gold senior living community Delmanor Wynford. In fact the array of projects that the company has worked on is extremely varied. These projects include condominium communities, marketing centres and model suites for projects such as World on Yonge, Alto & Trio at Atria, West Village, Centro Square, No.10 Bellair, Metro Place, Avignon on Bayview, Royal Gardens, Park Nuvo and other retirement residences throughout Canada including Laurel Heights and River Ridge. Looking ahead, Hefele and Makowka say they are exploring new areas, such as hospitality facilities, and also plan to continue their involvement with retirement living projects and corporate office design. "Even after all these years, we feel great satisfaction when the finished product is revealed," comments Hefele. "You remember the moment you developed the concept and drew up the first sketch, and suddenly you are looking at the actual finished building. You gain a real sense of satisfaction." Makowka adds that the thrill is still in making a client's dream come to life and exceeding client expectations. Hefele and Makowka obviously take pride in providing innovative solutions, original ideas and signature interior spaces. "Our firm has established an outstanding reputation of trust and meticulous attention to detail," says Hefele. "By creatively translating client guidelines into well-designed, yet efficient, interiors we have developed enduring relationships with many valued clients." And with 70 per cent of their clients being return business, what further proof is needed? n Clockwise from top: Alto at Atria lobby and party room, North York, ON; Parc Nuvo Condo boardroom; Argento gym and Argento sales suite, Toronto, ON. 10/    October 2013 p08-11CoverStory.indd 10 Hefele Makowka Design Associates 13-09-16 10:03 AM

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