Michael Friend
CEO & PartnerGren Weis Design StudioMichael Friend is CEO of Gren Weis Design Studio, where he leads the firm's interior design practice and oversees its day to day operations. He holds a BFA from Concordia University, where his studies spanned textile, costume, and stage and set design, a background that shapes how he approaches materiality and atmosphere in built spaces. Early in his career, he worked on the creative team for footwear brand Jeffrey Campbell, developing social media campaigns and content strategy. At Gren Weis, Michael has served as lead designer on a wide range of residential projects, from small renovations to multi million dollar custom builds, working with clients from land purchase through move in day. His work spans full interior design, from concept drawings developed alongside the architectural team to the selection of decor and soft goods. He also leads the firm's social media presence and its business development initiatives.
Designing for the Last Move: Longevity, Aging, and the Future of the Canadian Home
Canada’s most influential homeowners are getting older and they’re not planning to leave anytime soon. By 2030, every baby boomer in Canada will be ov
…Canada’s most influential homeowners are getting older and they’re not planning to leave anytime soon. By 2030, every baby boomer in Canada will be over 65, while the oldest Gen Xers are now entering their 60s. Together, these generations hold enormo
…Canada’s most influential homeowners are getting older and they’re not planning to leave anytime soon. By 2030, every baby boomer in Canada will be over 65, while the oldest Gen Xers are now entering their 60s. Together, these generations hold enormous housing wealth and are increasingly renovating with long-term living in mind. At the same time, rising housing costs are forcing homes to function differently than ever before.
This session brings a
Canada’s most influential homeowners are getting older and they’re not planning to leave anytime soon. By 2030, every baby boomer in Canada will be over 65, while the oldest Gen Xers are now entering their 60s. Together, these generations hold enormous housing wealth and are increasingly renovating with long-term living in mind. At the same time, rising housing costs are forcing homes to function differently than ever before.
This session brings an architect, a designer, and a custom home builder together to explore whether today’s homes are truly being designed for long-term living or simply for current trends. From aging-in-place strategies and accessible bathrooms to flexible kitchens, secondary living spaces, and future-proof layouts, panelists will discuss how each discipline approaches adaptability, functionality, and long-term value.
