Annaliesse Kelly
Founder & Creative DirectorAK DesignAnnaliesse Kelly has been in Vancouver's design scene for over 20 years, known for thoughtful, transformative spaces with a timeless sense of beauty and purpose. She founded her interior design firm in 2008 and rebranded as AK Design in 2017. AK Design is a full-service luxury firm specializing in residential homes and developments, with work featured in Western Living, Living Etc, BC Living, Dwell, and more.
With a background in project management and experience collaborating with leading Canadian design firms, Kelly brings vision and technical precision to every project. Her collaborative approach guides clients from concept to completion, creating spaces that reflect their values and experiences.
At the heart of AK Design is a belief that great design should do more than look beautiful. It should empower and connect people to their surroundings. Grounded in curiosity, transparency, and thoughtful decision-making, Kelly and her team create spaces that are both personal and purposeful.
The Great Specification Debate: Design Decisions Under Pressure
Designers don’t always agree and that’s what makes this session worth attending! In this fast-paced live debate, top designers go head-to-head on the
…Designers don’t always agree and that’s what makes this session worth attending! In this fast-paced live debate, top designers go head-to-head on the choices that define every kitchen: appliances, cabinetry, surfaces, lighting, and layouts.
Then the c
Designers don’t always agree and that’s what makes this session worth attending! In this fast-paced live debate, top designers go head-to-head on the choices that define every kitchen: appliances, cabinetry, surfaces, lighting, and layouts.
Then the curveballs hit. Budgets get cut. Products get backordered. Contractors push back. Clients suddenly change their minds. Designers must defend, rethink, or completely rebuild their specifications live on
Designers don’t always agree and that’s what makes this session worth attending! In this fast-paced live debate, top designers go head-to-head on the choices that define every kitchen: appliances, cabinetry, surfaces, lighting, and layouts.
Then the curveballs hit. Budgets get cut. Products get backordered. Contractors push back. Clients suddenly change their minds. Designers must defend, rethink, or completely rebuild their specifications live on stage.
Expect strong opinions, surprise pivots, audience reactions, and plenty of industry truth bombs as design ambition meets real-world constraints. Entertaining and strategic, see how they adapt, problem-solve, and still deliver exceptional spaces under pressure.
