Individuals, companies, or firms with 15 or more years in the industry are eligible for nomination if they have demonstrated mentorship, innovation, and leadership within the field. Nominees should also have strong ties to the Canadian hospitality supply, services, or design community.
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The Legacy Award
Honouring a long-standing contributor to Canadian design or manufacturing.
2025 Legacy Award Winners
1st Place: Anita Wiklém
With over 30 years in the industry, Anita Wiklém is a trailblazer in condominium common area refurbishment—a sector she is widely credited with pioneering. Recognizing an underserved niche, she transformed it into a thriving field through a combination of vision, discipline, and design excellence. As the founder of The Wiklém Group of Companies—which includes Wiklém Design inc., Wiklém Design+BUILD inc., and Wiklém Atelier—Anita has created a uniquely holistic platform for delivering design innovation, turnkey project execution, and community-focused arts programming. Through Wiklém Design+BUILD inc., she offers a fully integrated, designer-led approach that seamlessly unites creative direction, construction management, and client care. Her leadership, however, extends beyond her companies. She is a sought-after speaker, educator, and mentor, committed to guiding the next generation of design professionals through ARIDO certification and into successful careers. Anita is known for her integrity, depth of expertise, and an unwavering attention to detail. Her influence is seen not only in revitalized buildings across Ontario, but in the many designers she’s inspired and empowered throughout her remarkable career.
“I’m honestly a little overwhelmed. I didn’t expect this—at all. I am lucky to do the work I love alongside people I deeply respect. To be recognized like this… it’s incredibly humbling. I’m so grateful.”
2nd Place: Mackaywong
With a decades-long commitment to shaping purposeful, resonant hospitality spaces, mackaywong has earned its reputation as a visionary leader in Canadian design. This Legacy Award recognition reflects not only past achievements, but the firm’s enduring influence on the industry through mentorship, collaboration, and impactful work. At its core, mackaywong’s legacy is built project by project—fueled by integrity, creativity, and a belief in the power of meaningful design to inspire and endure.
3rd Place: Jennifer Kurtz
A passionate contributor to the hospitality design industry, Jennifer Kurtz is honoured to be recognized for her growing legacy. With a deep love for the field and many more years ahead, she continues to make her mark through thoughtful design, meaningful collaboration, and a commitment to shaping environments—and experiences—that last.