Kirsten was featured in the CSC November Executive Spotlight
Kirsten & Husband, Alan
Kirsten was featured in the Executive Spotlight of the CSC (Construction Standards Canada) Calgary Chapter’s November newsletter. Access the full newsletter here.
Here’s what they wrote:
“Kirsten Janes, President of Acorn Design Inc., has been collaboratively creating millions of square feet of built environments throughout Western Canada for over 25 years. Through the use of space, materials, and furnishings, Kirsten creates environments that improve people’s productivity and well-being.
Her company, Acorn Design Inc., grew out of the idea that “mighty oaks from little acorns grow.” Each project is viewed as starting as something small — perhaps an idea or an image — that, when nurtured, can grow into something large with longevity.
Not only married for 25 years to her high school sweetheart and best friend, but Kirsten has also been “Momsy” to her 20-year-old, 3rd -year university son and Dog Mom over the years to 3 Samoyeds and 1 Havanese.
Four vegetarians sitting in a car eating Triple O’s awesome veggie burgers, and the girlfriend says, “I don’t think you could fit more people with chronic illnesses into one car than right now!” Really, and it’s not the start of a comedy sketch! Kirsten, her hubby, her son, and her son’s girlfriend all have a number of chronic illnesses that pose different challenges each and every day – as long as there are reasons to laugh, all is still good.
Working as the “breadwinner,” raising a family, and dealing with various health issues, Kirsten feels a responsibility as a designer to create inclusive designs, including for those with hidden disabilities. Kirsten can’t imagine life without her two special guys, at least one dog, and the ability to sit in front of a wood-burning fireplace, a coffee in hand, and enjoy a great book surrounded by her loved ones – especially after a challenging week either on the health or work front!
Kirsten became involved in the Calgary Chapter for three primary reasons:
Specifications matter and interior designers/architects need to put themselves out to understand better what forms a part of their construction documents.
Mentorship between all design and construction industry professionals makes our industry more robust both today and into the future.
Surrounding yourself with a network of colleagues whom you respect and trust allow you to grow personally and professionally, resulting in the development of better projects.
Kirsten believes the true test of any successful project or endeavour is stated best in the words of Henry Ford: “Coming together is a beginning, staying together is progress, and working together is a success.”
Alongside her CSC colleagues, she is excited to be a part of the planning for CSC’s upcoming national conference to be hosted by Calgary in May 2023.”