Boulevard Magazine, Victoria, October/November 2019

OCTOBER I NOVEMBER 2019

VICTORIA LIFE AT ITS FINEST

ELEVATED LIVING The best of Victoria homes and lifestyles

FINDING HYGGE

Creating a “cocoon-able” living space

REAL MAGIC

Dressed to jingle, mingle and fight cancer

THE CARE AWARDS

Celebrating excellence in homebuilding

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WESTERLY LIFESTYLE CENTRE · 3455 FAIRWINDS DRIVE, NANOOSE BAY, BC · OPEN DAILY

I N Q U I R E · T 2 5 0 . 3 8 7 . 4 1 6 2 T F 1 . 8 0 0 . 3 4 0 . 9 5 3 9 FA I RW I N D S . C A THE DEVELOPER RESERVES THE RIGHT IN ITS DISCRETION TO MAKE MODIFICATIONS AND CHANGES TO FLOOR PLANS, PROJECT DESIGNS, MATERIALS, SPECIFICATIONS AND DIMENSIONS TO MAINTAIN THE HIGH STANDARD OF THIS DEVELOPMENT. INFORMATION CONTAINED WITHIN IS PROPOSED ONLY AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTIFICATION. THIS IS NOT AN OFFERING FOR SALE AS ANY SUCH OFFERING CAN ONLY BE MADE BY WAY OF DISCLOSURE STATEMENT. E.&O.E.

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CONTENTS 44

20 FEATURES

On the Cover Photo by Vince Klassen Mountain Retreat Clean lines and contrasting accents highlight this magnificent Terry Johal house at Bear Mountain.

Story by Lauren Kramer HOT PROPERTIES

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34 ELEVATED LIVING

56 FINDING HYGGE

A sleek, contemporary retreat at Bear Mountain

Creating a “cocoon-able’ space

By Lauren Kramer

By Lorin Turner

44 THE GOOD FIGHT

84 REVVED UP FOR RAMEN

Fitness duo brings boxing brand to life

Secrets to making divine ramen at home

By Tess van Straaten

By Chef Heidi Fink

50 REAL MAGIC

SPECIAL FEATURE

Dressed to jingle, mingle and fight cancer

94 THE CARE AWARDS

By Lia Crowe

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By Lia Crowe, Don Denton and Sean McIntyre

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50

DEPARTMENTS 10 OUR CONTRIBUTORS

20 inspiredEATS

131 TRAVEL NEAR

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EDITOR’S LETTER

Hip, hot, after-work spot: Chorizo & Co.

Spirits of the West: Shelter Point Distillery

Making sense of a perceptual phenomenon

By Sean McIntyre

By Susan Lundy

26 inspiredHEALTH

136 FRONT ROW

What’s on this October and November

By Robert Moyes

16

inspiredSTYLE

Magic Touch: Reiki

Rebecca Burrows

By Pamela Durkin

By Lia Crowe

18

inspiredDESIGN

Area of Influence

By Janice Jefferson

30 inspiredPEOPLE

Crafted for Love: Talia Tanaka

By Sean McIntyre

150 SECRETS & LIVES

Building Inspiration Erik Larsen

By Erin McPhee

114 TRAVEL FAR

High In New York

By Susan Lundy

130 BEHIND THE STORY

By Lia Crowe

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OURCONTRIBUTORS

JEN CLARK MAKEUP ARTIST: REAL MAGIC

“My focus for make up direction was to ensure that everyone felt celebrated in their beauty. I kept the skin luminous with glorious accents of champagne pop. It was an honour and a true delight to work with everyone on this project.” Jen is a Victoriabased makeup artist.

PAGE 50

V I C T O R I A L I F E AT I T S F I N E S T O C TO B E R / N OV E M B E R 2 0 1 9

GROUP PUBLISHER Penny Sakamoto

PUBLISHER Mario Gedicke

250.891.5627 info@blvdmag.ca

LIA CROWE PHOTOGRAPHER AND WRITER: INSPIRED STYLE

PAGE 16

DON DENTON BOULEVARD PHOTOGRAPHER: BUILDING INSPIRATION

PAGE 150

HEIDI FINK WRITER: REVVED UP FOR RAMEN

“A big part of my job is finding locations for fashion shoots and it’s often hard to come up with one. So when I interviewed Rebecca Burrows in the space above Hughes Clothing, my mouth just about hit the floor when I saw this gorgeous empty space flooded with natural light. I immediately asked if we could shoot our fashion feature in the space.

She said ‘yes’ without hesitation and I couldn’t have been happier.” Lia is a stylist, creative director, photographer and writer.

“Hopefully readers look at a portrait in Boulevard and see the relaxed person we want to present. What the reader doesn’t know is all that the subject has gone through for the photograph. Erik Larsen was happy to pose for us on a hot fall day in front of a roaring gas fire. I could feel the heat from where I was photographing, but Erik, somehow, while standing right in front of the fire, kept up a cool (in every sense of the word) front.” Don has photographed numerous high-profile events, including the Olympics, World Hockey Championships and a Royal wedding.

“Finding excellent fresh ramen noodles in Victoria was a dream come true for this chef and ramen lover. The fresh noodles took the recipe-testing to the next level. I enjoyed every bite.” Heidi is a chef, food writer and culinary instructor, specializing in local foods and ethnic cuisines.

EDITOR Susan Lundy ASSOCIATE EDITOR Lia Crowe CREATIVE DIRECTOR Lily Chan

DESIGN Lorianne Koch Michelle Gjerde Tammy Robinson

ADVERTISING Mario Gedicke

Vicki Clark

Pat Brindle

Lisa Vassiliadis

CONTRIBUTING

WRITERS

Lia Crowe Pamela Durkin Heidi Fink Janice Jefferson Lauren Kramer Sean McIntyre Erin McPhee Robert Moyes Lorin Turner Tess van Straaten

CONTRIBUTING Lia Crowe PHOTOGRAPHERS Don Denton

Vince Klassen

PAGE 82

JANICE JEFFERSON WRITER: AREA OF INFLUENCE

PAGE 18

“Ease into fall with the warm colours of the changing leaves, deep gold, warm caramel and a hit of glimmer. The ever-changing shapes of the moon are all around us, so we don’t tend to notice how prominent it is in design without paying attention.”

Janice is an Interior Designer who creates wellfunctioning spaces with an eye-catching mix of playfulness and refinement.

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TRENDING ONLINE:

View Boulevard’s Fashion Friday

www.vicnews.com/life Any device. Any time.

VINCE KLASSEN PHOTOGRAPHER: ELEVATED LIVING

PAGE 34

“Photographing Terry Johal’s contemporary architecture with its clean lines, contrasting dark kitchen accents, and the magnificent open living space created a ‘zen’ experience.” A Victoria native, photographer Vince Klassen received his first camera at the age of nine and has collaborated with Boulevard since the beginning of time.

Victoria Boulevard ® is a registered trademark of Black Press Group Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the publisher’s written permission. Ideas and opinions expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of Black Press Group Ltd. or its affiliates; no official endorsement should be inferred. The publisher does not assume any responsibility for the contents, both implied or assumed, of any advertisement in this publication. Printed in Canada. Canada Publications Mail Product Sales Agreement #42109519.

Tel: 250.381.3484 Fax: 250.386.2624 info@blvdmag.ca boulevardmagazines.com

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OURCONTRIBUTORS

LAUREN KRAMER

SEAN MCINTYRE

ERIN MCPHEE

WRITER: ELEVATED LIVING

WRITER: CRAFTED FOR LOVE

WRITER: BUILDING INSPIRATION

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PAGE 30

PAGE 150

“I loved visiting this amazing home and learning how, through smart architectural design and foresight, the owners and architect collaborated to create something unique, private, personable and visionary.”

Lauren Kramer writes about food, travel and fascinating individuals from her home in Richmond, BC.

“Good intentions and acts of kindness go unnoticed and unacknowledged far too often. Hopefully, Talia Tanaka’s Love Medals will serve to right the balance.” Sean is a freelance writer based on Salt Spring Island. He enjoys writing about the people, places and flavours of Canada’s West Coast.

ROBERT MOYES

LORIN TURNER

TESS VAN STRAATEN

WRITER: FRONT ROW

WRITER: FINDING HYGGE

WRITER: THE GOOD FIGHT

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PAGE 44

“It was pleasantly surprising to discover how many doctrines of hygge my husband and I naturally follow in our daily lives. In our current times, providing clients with a personalized sanctuary to recharge is as important as designing a high-functioning kitchen.” Lorin Turner is the Principal Interior Designer for Zebra Group in Victoria, BC.

“When I walked into the SPAR studio in Victoria, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. But the dance party/nightclub atmosphere made the boxing workout seem very fun and accessible. The passion and drive of the owners, two young moms growing their families while growing the business, was also very inspiring.” Tess is an award-winning journalist and television personality who has had the privilege of interviewing people for more than two decades.

PAGE 136

“A collection of all things artsy, fun and spectacular happening in Victoria this fall. Take in the novelty of a ‘whydunit’ thriller at Langham Court, savour a rarely performed trio of one-act operas by Puccini, or enjoy Canadian musical icon Bruce Cockburn.” A born and bred Victoria native, Robert is a longtime freelancer and editor whose main focus these days is arts journalism.

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“Life imitating art: that’s a great way to describe Erik Larsen’s turn to the literary world and one of his favourite writers for inspiration during a time of professional hardship, which ultimately set him on a continued successful path forward more than a decade later.” New Brunswick-born and a longtime Vancouverite, Erin McPhee is a professional communicator and awardwinning writer currently living in Victoria.

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EDITOR’SLETTER

Making sense of a perceptual phenomenon

BY SUSAN LUNDY

I

focusing on anything beyond the drama IN THE past few weeks, occurring in my brain. So I don’t play I’ve said things like, music while I work. (And I’m frequently “His name is Clint or asked — “Who needs drugs when you Clive; it’s yellow, for have synesthesia?”) sure.” And “Sorry, but Other less common forms of can you turn off the synesthesia are Lexical-gustatory music? Too many shapes (certain tastes are experienced when while I’m editing.” hearing words) and one that is odorI have synesthesia, a “perceptual colour-related where scents evoke phenomenon in which stimulation of one colour. sensory or cognitive pathway leads to Synesthesia is often hereditary, and automatic, involuntary experiences in a one of my two daughters has it. Danica’s second sensory or cognitive pathway.” words are multi-coloured: she sees Have I lost you yet? the colour of each letter. Helpful in Until I was in my late teens, I thought proofreading because she is perhaps everyone saw words in colours. I slightly above average at telling if a wondered why I got blank stares with a word is misspelled if the colours are comment like: “No, I can’t remember the out of order. But she also sees colours name of the hotel. But I think it’s blue.” as fighting with each other and it’s Two to four per cent of the “painful” for them to be side-by-side on population has synesthesia, where the a canvas. So, less helpful since she’s a visual artist. In fact, many experience of one sense or mental image is simultaneously artists have synesthesia. I draw on it a lot when I write poetry, perceived by another sense.

So for me, I “see” all words and letters in colour. Each mental especially the Chromesthesia because it gives me such visually rich imagery. image of a word is the colour of the word’s first letter. However, I also have “spatial sequence synesthesia,” where I see the shade of the hue depends on the collection of colours of the months and days of the week in colour but also in a 3-D individual letters, most dominantly if it contains a white letter sequence — almost like a map. It took me a long time to like “O.” It’s complicated, but here’s an example. Take my name, understand why others couldn’t seem to Susan. It’s red because S is red. But it’s a light shade of red because U is Until I was in my late teens, keep up with me as I spewed travel plans and/or various appointment dates, easily white. My colour palette is enduring I thought everyone saw navigating my internal 3-D map. Having and consistent over time, but different a 3-D calendar in your brain is very, very from others with synesthesia. words in colours. handy!

Colour-word associations might be I believe synesthesia enriches my life. handy in recalling names, but they can Last summer, when I tumbled headfirst down a flight of stairs also be disconcerting. For example, when I found out “Robert” into a concrete wall, it wasn’t my shattered elbow that concerned is my husband Bruce’s actual first name, his moniker went from me as I sat in emergency. Would the concussion somehow rebeing a lovely blue to a rusty brown. And the colour of Robert route my brain back to “normal?” I shut my eyes and envisioned is less “comfortable” with the yellow of his last name, Cameron, words. Hurray! The colours were still there. than with the blue of Bruce.

This edition of Boulevard is a celebration of the senses, As I’ve become more aware of synesthesia in the past decade, offering features on food, spirits, the healing power of touch I’ve discovered there are numerous types. Word-colour and the feel of a cosy, wintertime cocoon. And with its gorgeous relationships — called Grapheme-color synesthesia — is the visuals, it’s also a feast for the eyes. most common.

I hope you enjoy this issue of Boulevard. And if I meet you in Another form, Chromesthesia, involves the association of the street and can’t quite remember your name, at least you can sounds with colours. I have a variation on this where sounds rest assured I have your colour covered. evoke shapes or images in my mind. For example, when I hear an eagle, I “see” an image that looks like a waterfall of Susan Lundy has been writing stories since she was six years old. diamonds. Lovely! But I also “see” shapes of other sounds, such She has a degree in creative writing from the University of Victoria, as burps, which are less attractive than cascading diamonds. and after working for many years as an award-winning journalist, is When it comes to listening to music, it can be difficult for me to now a magazine editor, author and freelance writer. juggle hearing the sounds, seeing the multitude of shapes and

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FASHION & BEAUTY

with

REBECCA BURROWS

OWNER OF HUGHES CLOTHING WO R D S + P H OTO BY LIA CROWE

“If my kids inherit one quality from me I hope it will be my heart — that they be kind, open-hearted and generous.”

ALL-TIME FAVOURITE PIECE: Black cocktail dress. CURRENTLY COVETING: Tod’s loafers. FAVOURITE PAIR OF SHOES: Badass biker boots by Jimmy Choo. FAVOURITE DAY-BAG: “My classic black leather Prada bag; can’t go wrong.” FAVOURITE WORK TOOL: “My heart. Everything I do in business comes from my heart.”

FAVOURITE JEWELLERY PIECE OR DESIGNER: “The three diamond intertwined circles on my necklace, symbolizing my kids and that bond I share with them. Next is a pair of Tiffany’s studs.” FASHION OBSESSION: “Sweaters! I have so many and I cannot stop buying them!” ACCESSORY YOU SPEND THE MOST MONEY ON: “Shoes and purses for sure! I remember saving up for my first Prada handbag.” NECESSARY INDULGENCE FOR EITHER FASHION OR BEAUTY: “Splurge! You only live once. I’ve always loved fashion and when I wear that special piece that makes me feel on the outside how I’m feeling on the inside, I know it works.” MOISTURIZER: Counter+ Overnight Resurfacing Peel by Beautycounter. SCENT: Eternity by Calvin Klein. “That fragrance just works for me. My husband knows when I walk into a room before he even sees me.” MUST-HAVE HAIR PRODUCT: “My hair blow dryer which is Tiffany’s blue! I’m a sucker for that colour.” BEAUTY SECRET: “Less is more. I don’t wear makeup. Putting makeup on for this shoot was work enough!”

READING MATERIAL

FAVE PRINT MAGAZINE: Vanity Fair. FAVE STYLE BLOG: Hello Fashion Blog. COFFEE TABLE BOOK/PHOTOGRAPHY BOOK: Dior: The Art of Color

by Jerry Stafford, Marc Ascoli and Richard Bernard Burbridge. LAST GREAT READ: Becoming by Michelle Obama. BOOK CURRENTLY READING: Guess Who by Chris McGeorge. FAVOURITE BOOK OF ALL TIME: Madame Bovary by Gustave Flaubert.

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A

FTER 36 years, Donna Anderson has passed the glowing torch that is Hughes Clothing to her daughter-in-law, Rebecca Burrows.

When Rebecca first arrived in Victoria from Winnipeg at age 19, Donna was the first person to give her a job. As Donna’s employee for 10 years and her daughter-in-law for 18, Rebecca’s professional life has taken her in different directions, but fashion has always been her passion and Hughes has remained very close to her heart.

As I meet Rebecca at Hughes to chat about life and style, I’m greeted with warmth and a glowing sense of humour. I’m not surprised to learn that she was a professional ballet dancer as she has that “major powerhouse in a petite package” energy.

Until last January, Rebecca owned the Bleue Coyote Bar & Grill in Brentwood Bay for 11 years. “I thought I would retire, but that lasted three weeks,” Rebecca laughs. So the opportunity to purchase Hughes Clothing presented itself and all the pieces fell into place. Rebecca officially took over as owner this fall. Asked what has surprised her the most about being back at Hughes after 14 years, she says, “I was struck by how much I have changed since the last time I worked here. How much mellower I am, how much more comfortable I am in my skin. I have never been this happy and content in my life.” Now 43, Rebecca is the mother of three children and two stepchildren, ranging in age from 7 to 13, so I ask her what is the most important life lesson she’s learned since 40?

“It’s to keep my circle small. Back in my 20s and 30s it was about quantity. But in the last few years it’s been about keeping my circle small, quality over quantity with everything. With relationships and even clothing and shoes. Keep it small. Why would I need more?

It’s important to have a solid circle of people around you.”

Asked how she sees the business moving forward, she says,“I have big shoes to fill, but my husband keeps reminding me that I don’t need to fill anyone’s shoes, that I have different shoes. So I’m not looking to change Hughes, I’m just looking to pivot, put my feel on it. The store is Donna, it has been Donna for 36 years. I’m not looking to take Donna out of it, I’m just looking to inject Rebecca into it. Bring in a few classic lines that I know and love and that I think will fit well in what’s here already.”

STYLE INSPIRATION/ LIFE

STYLE ICON: Audrey Hepburn.

FAVOURITE ARTIST: Degas.

PIECE OF ART: Local, DebraK. FAVOURITE FASHION DESIGNER OR BRAND: “There are so many and very mood dependent! Right now, I would say Liviana Conti, Inwear and Eileen Fisher.” FAVOURITE MUSICIAN: “Tough one! The Smiths.” ERA THAT INSPIRES YOUR STYLE: “1960s, for sure.” FILM THAT INSPIRES YOUR STYLE: Breakfast at Tiffany’s. FAVOURITE LOCAL RESTAURANT: Vis à Vis. FAVOURITE COCKTAIL/WINE: “J. Lohr, California’s Cab Sauv. are simply the best.”

ALBUM ON CURRENT ROTATION: Depeche Mode, Violator. FAVOURITE FLOWER: Tulips. FAVOURITE CITY TO VISIT: Maui.

FAVOURITE HOTEL: Four Seasons Wailea FAVOURITE APP: “Jeopardy — nerd alert!” FAVOURITE PLACE IN THE WHOLE WORLD: “At home with my family.”

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Design NOTES

BY JANICE JEFFERSON MODHAUS DESIGNS

5.

AREA OF INFLUENCE One of my most influential furniture designers has been Willy Rizzo.

From the day I first noticed his designs, I was in awe. This collection of trends is a tiny nod to him and how he has inspired me. Ease into fall with the warm colours of the changing leaves with deep golds and caramels, and revel in the shapes of a crescent moon.

1.

4.

2.

4.

3.

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7.

8.

7.

10.

9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

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1. Raceway wallpaper in burnt orange, dropitmodern.com $137 USD/roll. 2. Hemisphere Bookshelf Anthropologie $1,298. 3. Topless Bath Mat, Amelia Lee $44. 4. Steller Tile by Sonoma Tilemakers in Garnet Crackle, Decora Tile $59 /square foot. 5. One Light Sconce by JAM Sandbar Collection, Mclaren Lighting $402. 6. Scallop Hide Rug in black, CB2 $549 to $1,999. 7. Alessi Pito Kettle, Gabriel Ross $680. 8. Status Anxiety Jonah wallet, Reunion Boutique $77. 9. Eleven Thirty Anni Mini bag in Bronze Croc, Still Life Boutique $365. 10. Carolina Tudela art, 20 x 30 $600. 11. Atlas Hoops in Classic Tortoise shopmachete.com $58. 12. Chie Mihara: Logan, Footloose Shoes $379. 13. Leather Shell Armchair CB2 $2,999. 14. Area Coffee Table by Bensen, Chester Fields — call for pricing.

inspired EATS

HIP, HOT, AFTER-WORK SPOT

Chorizo & Co. — an eatery with a Spanish flair

BY SEAN MCINTYRE | P H OTO S BY LIA CROWE

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The city is barely recognizable from the place it was only a decade ago.

Restaurants have played a huge role in the downtown core’s revitalization.

T

HERE’S no mistaking Stephen Quigley when you walk into Chorizo & Co. He stands tall behind the bar, sporting a big smile and a welcoming wave, beckoning passersby along Fort Street to settle in.

Although it was once a deli catering to Victorians searching for a slice of Spanish flavour, Stephen and business partner Dave Brooks joined forces to resurrect the quaint downtown locale as a bonafide Iberian eatery and cocktail bar.

“We were both fans of the old delicatessen and, as an homage, we’ve kept the name and the Spanish influence and introduced phase two of Chorizo & Co.,” Stephen says. “We brought the tables higher, took out the large deli counter, painted the walls darker and made it more of an evening focus. We had no interest in running a deli, but we are interested in a great bar/restaurant, and that’s what we’ve aimed for here.”

Classics such as the Chorizo sandwich share the menu with a unique house paella, seared rockfish and bavette steak.

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Stephen Quigley, left, and Dave Brooks.

Boho, Gypsy, modern romantic — for those with a unique sense of style and a love of natural textiles

The menu offers a mix of small plates, sandwiches and larger meals, all of which can be savoured alone or shared with a crowd alongside beverages from an inspiring list. Signature cocktails and wines provide a deep dive into the subtleties of Spain’s Tempranillo varietal.

“A lot of people might think ‘How good could a sandwich be?’ but, based on the feedback we’re getting, people are getting blown away,” Dave says.

“We’re not just tapas. Some of the things could be considered tapas but, at the end of the day, it’s just a food menu that has a Spanish influence; a menu that has a bunch of really delicious things. Whether you want tapas or share plates or a full entrée, that’s totally up to you.”

Stephen and Dave bring nearly two decades of experience from Stage Wine Bar to Victoria’s rapidly changing culinary scene. The city, they say, is barely recognizable from the

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place it was only a decade ago.

Restaurants have played a huge role in the downtown core’s revitalization.

Whether it’s sampling happy hour or making an evening of it, Chorizo & Co. combines great personalities and awesome flavours to complement a vibrant and creative restaurant scene.

“It’s not an overexposed style of dining, but it is more and more the way people like to dine,” Stephen says.

“Because there are so many places around Victoria, popping in here and having a glass of wine with a small plate, and then going somewhere else is accomplishable. It’s a way to make an evening and taste a bit of the city.”

Chorizo & Co. is open Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 4:30 to 10 pm, and Friday and Saturday from 4:30 to 11 pm. Check them out on Instagram and Facebook for updates and menu specials.

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Authentic Idar

The Botanical Collection A superb piece of hand-crafted jewellery is very special.

The care, thought, and craftsmanship that goes into an idar piece makes the final creation incredibly personal and beautiful. That is exactly what Idar Jewellers has been doing for more than 45 years. Located in the heart of Fort Street in Victoria, idar serves as the retail showcase and working studio of award-winning master goldsmith and nationally renowned jeweller Idar Bergseth. Idar’s vision is to create distinctive lines of jewellery that are exceptionally designed and made by hand, using time-honoured techniques and intended for a lifetime of everyday use. That original idea and inspiration lives on in every piece he produces.

and periwinkle, along with ladybugs and dragonflies, inspire these pieces of art.

What better way to commemorate a special occasion, whether it’s a wedding, birthday or other milestone, than with a piece from Idar’s Botanical Collection? This popular series is a nod to our local flora and fauna.

Superbly designed flowers, including calla lilies, roses

To ensure you are purchasing an original work of art, Idar’s signature bee trademark is stamped on the inside of each piece. At Idar, the piece of jewellery you buy today becomes the heirloom of tomorrow - one to be treasured for years to come.

Recently, Idar was invited

by DeBeers to carry its exclusive Forevermark diamonds, which are handselected for their beauty and their rarity. Less than one percent of the world’s diamonds are eligible to become Forevermark.

INTERNATIONAL AWARD WINNING JEWELLERY DESIGNERS • SINCE 1972 946 Fort St, Victoria, BC 250-383-3414 • www.idar.com Jewellery Designs © 2019 IDAR

inspired HEALTH

Magic Touch Reiki uses “universal life energy” to support the body’s natural ability to heal itself

BY PAMELA DURKIN

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COMPLETE EYE EXAMINATIONS BY

DR. JASON MAYCOCK DR. TOBY VALLANCE DR. MANDY LETKEMANN DR. NICHOLAS CATCHUK

OPTOMETRISTS

T

OUCH is the most fundamental of

all the senses and the first one to develop in the human body. Without it, we cannot thrive. It nourishes, entices, soothes — and more importantly — it heals.

Victoria naturopath Dr. Jocelyn Taitt concurs.

“Touch is critical for our well-being at every stage of life,” she says. “It has a profound effect on both our physical and mental health.”

The healing power of touch is certainly not a new discovery. Its therapeutic power is described in both the Judeo-Christian Old and New Testaments.

Unfortunately, in the “scientific” age, touch therapies were often decried as “nonsense” and viewed with widespread skepticism by the medical community.

However, with the current renaissance of holistic medicine we are once again recognizing the amazing healing potential of touch.

One system of touch therapy that is gaining recognition and acceptance in the medical field is Reiki, an ancient tradition that uses “universal life energy” to support the body’s natural ability to heal itself.

After decades of skepticism and dismissal, the effectiveness of Reiki is finally being proven via peer-reviewed double-blind studies and top medical facilities around the globe are utilizing it as a valuable adjunct in the treatment of pain, depression, anxiety and more.

While only a handful of Canadian hospitals, such as Toronto’s Princess Margaret, currently employ Reiki as a supportive treatment tool, there are now more than 60 US hospitals, including renowned places like the Mayo Clinic and Johns Hopkins, that offer Reiki as part of their patient services. And worldwide, Reiki is now widely used in cancer support centres, drug and alcohol rehabilitation clinics and in palliative care facilities.

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“Reiki supports the release of emotions and energy blockages, re-establishing equilibrium in both body and mind.”

Reiki 101 Reiki is a Japanese word derived from rei, meaning “universal,” and ki, meaning “vital life force.” It is a relaxing form of healing therapy that is applied through gentle, non-invasive, nonmanipulative touch. In its basic form, it involves the Reiki practitioner laying his or her hands just above — or on — the clothed body of a client, slowly working over the front and back in a concentrated progression of hand movements.

Although various accounts relate slightly different versions of its history, it is thought that Reiki began in Tibet several thousand years ago. Dr. Mikao Usui, a Japanese scholar, is acknowledged for rediscovering the lost art of Reiki in the 19th century. He passed on his knowledge to others who have since spread the practice of Reiki worldwide.

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Proponents of the therapy believe that the power of physical touch, by way of the palms of the hand and tips of the fingers, can be used to channel the body’s natural energy in a way that promotes general healing and overall good health.

The Science Scientists are not completely certain how Reiki wields its magic, but several biological indicators suggest it activates our parasympathetic nervous system (aka our “rest and digest” system) and halts the body’s “fight and flight” stress response. How does this translate into a positive biological response in humans? Clinicians at both New York Presbyterian and Columbia hospitals found that Reiki treatments can lower heart rate, respiration and blood pressure. Given this, it’s not surprising that a recent meta analysis published in Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice concluded that Reiki is an effective approach to relieving pain and reducing levels of anxiety and depression.

Several studies also suggest the gentle therapy can improve certain behaviour and memory problems in patients with mild cognitive impairments or Alzheimer’s.

What’s more, as reported in the Journal of General Internal Medicine, it can calm dementia patients.

Finally, ongoing research points to its effectiveness at treating insomnia, increasing mobility in those with arthritis and Type-2 diabetes, accelerating recovery from sports injuries and surgery, and alleviating the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.

The Treatment With my curiosity piqued, I decided it was time to experience Reiki firsthand. The decision led me back to Dr. Taitt, who, in addition to being a naturopath, is also a seasoned Reiki master.

We began the session by discussing my past and current health concerns and honed in on areas I wanted to focus on during this first treatment.

Proceeding to the massage table I grew ever more curious.

What would Reiki “feel” like and how would my body react? As Dr. Taitt placed her hands on different sites along my body, I became aware of intense heat emanating from the areas she was working on, in addition to some “tingling.”

What surprised me most, though, was the rather profound emotional response I experienced while she was working on the crown area of my head. I felt overcome by a sadness I was at a loss to explain. When we discussed this at the end of my treatment, Dr. Taitt explained that we often carry emotions in our bodies like memories, and they can become trapped and block the flow of “vital energy,” causing both physical and emotional discomfort.

“Reiki supports the release of emotions and energy blockages, re-establishing equilibrium in both body and mind,” she notes.

By the end of my treatment I felt blissfully relaxed, and this state of calm wasn’t just ephemeral, either. It lasted for several days. So what’s my conclusion? While Reiki is clearly not a cure-all, it certainly is a valid and valuable treatment that should be considered as a health-enhancing support for a variety of modern-day ills.

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Inspired PEOPLE

CRAFTED

FOR LOVE Talia Tanaka with Love Medals.

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Love Medals celebrate acts of kindness

BY SEAN MCINTYRE P H OTO S BY LIA CROWE

A

S a student attending Vancouver’s Emily Carr Institute of Design in the early 2000s, Talia Tanaka was surrounded by inspiration. Artisans and workshops offered her a window on diverse skills, while the vivid colours and eclectic shapes of market produce stoked her imagination.

“It was a magical place to study with all sorts of creative places and a very inspiring environment,” says Talia. “I spent a lot of time in the market being inspired

by Mother Earth’s jewellery.”

Despite the immersive nature of Emily Carr’s former Granville Island campus, it wasn’t until Talia found herself in a flea market on the other side of the Pacific Ocean that her path forward became clear.

Tanaka recalls walking through the rows of a market in Kyoto while living in Japan after graduation.

By chance, she happened upon a table heaped with antique war medals. Sketchbook in hand, she began to jot down the first strokes of what would eventually evolve into her unique line of jewellery: Love Medals.

Military medals have historically honoured the bravery, sacrifice and honour of soldiers on the battlefield, but Talia saw no reason why recognition shouldn’t also be paid to the unsung heroes who make a positive difference in our day-to-day lives. It’s a simple and timeless concept imbued with an entirely new and novel meaning.

“It’s important now and more than ever to recognize

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and appreciate acts of kindness,” she says. “It’s all kinds.

Sometimes it’s a husband honouring his wife, sometimes it’s a birth, sometimes it’s a wedding. It can be people getting them for someone overcoming odds or who needs encouragement.

Or it can just be a nice way to say thank you.”

The result is the bold simplicity of a traditional medal mixed with fashionable colours and heartfelt emotions of appreciation.

“The nice thing about them is that, just like a medal, you don’t have to wear it all the time, and it’s a great conversation piece,” Talia adds. “It’s jewellery, but it’s also making moments to connect in a special way.”

Talia likens her work during the past decade to a calling that gives people a chance to acknowledge positive change and recognize victories in love “Love changes the world,” she says.”Person by person.

Action by action.”

Having recently relocated to Victoria from the Lower Mainland, Talia has teamed up with other local businesses to produce a handcrafted, thoughtful product.

Those early markets have helped Tanaka follow her passion and grow a craft that’s attracting orders from clients around the world. Her website lovemedals.com gives those looking to show appreciation, love or gratitude an opportunity to build their own Love Medals. Talia’s Heart Shield series can be cast in bronze or silver with a choice of ribbon colours and specific meanings, such as friendship, romance, family, community, personal growth and more, attached. Engraving, stones and other precious metals are also all customizable “Like any creative pursuits, it was definitely a learning

process,” she says. “I think my main strategy is to make sure that I am staying true to what brings me joy: making jewellery, being creative and doing meaningful work.”

Talia is enrolled in a full-time business program to help her manage the admittedly less creative side of her rapidly developing creative endeavour. Turning 40 this year offers her an entirely new perspective on school.

“I can read accounting books now,” she says, adding that age provides a chance to directly apply her knowledge. “I’m loving studying business because I can get so much out of it now.”

As her company grows, Talia is committed to staying true to some fundamentals. She feels a responsibility to make sure her products are created in the most sustainable and ethical manner possible. Working conditions, cleaning materials and use of recycled materials when possible are all part of Talia’s own way of showing gratitude to the people and natural resources that nurture her creative endeavours.

“I’m trying to be as transparent as I can,” she says.

Talia’s inspiration thrives amid the wild Vancouver Island landscape. She and her young son love heading out to the beach, where they surround themselves with the sounds and sights of the rugged shoreline. Closer to town, Talia has found a degree of support among artists and the general public that has surpassed her expectations.

“The interesting thing is it’s actually a lot more inspiring,” she says. “People are very supportive and accepting of creative people and a lot of new ideas.”

And that’s something for which she continues to be grateful.

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Elevated

living A contemporary Scandinavian-style retreat at Bear Mountain

BY LAUREN KRAMER P H OTO S BY VINCE KLASSEN

W

HEN Jordan and Hayley first laid eyes on Bear Mountain in 2014, the couple fell hard for the views, the serenity and the sheer beauty of the rugged terrain. On a whim, they bought a small lot, hired a contractor to build a home, and started planning a relocation to the island from Richmond, where they were living at the time.

“We were expecting our first child and the decision just felt right,” said Hayley.

By April 2015 they had moved to Bear Mountain and were loving their new surroundings.

“We really enjoy the laid-back lifestyle here, the friendliness of people in this community and the peacefulness of life in Victoria,” she reflected.

While the environment was working its magic, the first house the couple built was falling short of their needs. As they explored the mountain, they found a piece of land in Cypress, an area under new development, and began picturing their dream home.

“We wanted a yard, a larger garage, a gym inside the house and a playroom, since we knew we’d be expanding the family,” she explained.

When the land lots went up for sale soon after, Jordan and Hayley were first in line.

The lot they chose is exquisitely positioned, overlooking Hole 4 of the Mountain Golf Course at Bear Mountain, and just alongside it, the steep valley shrouded in forest that descends sharply into Goldstream Park. Arbutus trees extend long naked trunks near the sheer bluffs, deer

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wander onto the property from the forest below, eagles and hawks soar on the thermals. And when the dark clouds roll in, the storm watching from this vantage point is breathtaking.

Jordan and Hayley had heard rumours about the best builder in town long before they met Terry Johal.

“He’s one of the most sought-after builders in Victoria and has won a long list of awards over the years,” Jordan said. “Even our previous builder had told us that Terry was building really amazing homes on the mountain.”

Jordan grew up on Vancouver Island and always knew he’d be back. As they drove past the homes Terry had built, the couple discovered they were indeed standouts.

“Everything about them was different, from the quality of the materials they use to the rock base,” he added. “His attention to detail is second to none.”

The couple hired Terry to build their dream home and began scouring the internet to find home designs they loved. Their style leaned towards Scandinavian chalets, with slanted rooflines, simple, minimalist interiors and a feeling of warmth 36

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Terry, whose company has built 60 homes on the mountain, loved the idea from the moment he first pulled up at the site.

“The fog was rolling in that day and I looked out at the view and thought, wow, this is the place,” he recalled. “The location of this home makes it one of the premier properties in the resort. And while this home is outside of the style we normally build, it just fits so well with the property.”

Over the next 18 months, Terry got to work on the couple’s modern mountain home, a 4,500-square-foot, open-plan residence where massive glazed windows connect the rugged exterior to the home’s immaculate, rustic-inspired interior. With its many geometric angles, the house design was challenging from a construction point of view, requiring the addition of hidden metal beams and innovative structural integrity to support its shape.

Said Terry: “With a custom home of this calibre, you have the plans, but they’re almost secondary because the home evolved as we were building it and we made changes on the fly.

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It was a work in progress throughout.”

A second-generation island builder, Terry worked alongside his father from the age of eight and started his own company in 2001.

“I’ve worked with my trades for years and some of their fathers worked for my father,” he said.

The three-level home has an open-plan kitchen and family room with an L-shaped fireplace, textured oak flooring and striking art on the walls by Derek Overfield. Food preparation is done in the butler’s pantry, where a built-in coffee machine creates the gourmet beverages the couple loves. Matte black cabinetry by Southshore Cabinets gives the room a warm finish and requires little maintenance — a blessing in a home where small children and messy food frequently collide. The couple chose a large Miele gas stove and oven, a panel-ready Liebherr refrigerator and a mixture of quartz white countertops and Cambria black ones.

Three eye-catching floor-to-ceiling wine panels store the couple’s favourite wines while doubling as a piece of art. Also close by on the main floor is the children’s playroom and Jordan’s study, making it easy for the family of four to occupy the same level in the home simultaneously — yet maintaining spaces of their own.

Downstairs, the space is adult-oriented, with an entertainment room featuring comfy chairs and a large screen for movies, a pool table and a bar. Closed glass doors separate the state-of-the-art gym from the recreation room, and through large windows the indoor, heated garage is visible; it’s a five-car space with built-in storage.

Upstairs, the couple included many smart features in their

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new home. In the laundry room, the washer and dryer are concealed inside a cupboard; drawers in the room open to reveal a hidden ironing board and large bins for dirty laundry. Since everything has a place, the countertops are free of clutter and unless you started poking around, it would be difficult to discern that this is, indeed, the laundry area.

Each of the home’s four bedrooms is spacious with large windows, dramatic artwork and high-end finishes. In the master bedroom, a television is concealed inside an oak cabinet, rising at the touch of a button, while remote controls manage the blinds over the large floor-to-ceiling windows. Sliding barn doors conceal the bedroom’s walkin closet with its quartz-countertop island that separates his side from hers, and the bathroom, where a steam shower and large bathtub create a decadently relaxing space.

Outside, the family has maximized their love of the outdoors by including two fire pits — one on the far end of the property, overlooking Goldstream Park and the other just beyond the kitchen doors. Construction on an outdoor

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kitchen is almost complete and this summer Jordan, Hayley and their children are looking forward to watching the deer, eagles and woodpeckers up close from their spectacular mountain retreat.

“We love this house so much,” Hayley admitted. “It’s far exceeded our expectations.”

Added Jordan: “When we built our first home on Bear Mountain we were planning our next build the moment we moved in. But with this home, building again hasn’t even crossed our minds. I don’t think we could find a better location than what we have here, and we could never have done it without Terry.”

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THE GOOD FIGHT Fitness duo brings boxing brand to life

Victoria Courtnall ,left, and Hayley Gustavson in the ring at SPAR.

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TEPPING into SPAR’s downtown Victoria workout studio for the first time, I feel like I’m in a night club. And that’s exactly the point.

“We’re doing a ‘fight club meets night club’ atmosphere,” explains SPAR co-founder Victoria Courtnall. “You box to the beat of the music.”

“We want to make it as fun an experience for our clients as possible while still giving them a challenging, badass workout that gets the heart rate up and incorporates core and lower body exercises for a full body workout,” adds SPAR cofounder Hayley Gustavson. “It’s also therapy for some people because you can take your aggression out on the bag.”

The boxing-inspired group fitness studio opened in May, after Hayley and Victoria pedalled their way to success with two SPINCO studios. The pair, both Oak Bay High School grads, launched SPINCO Victoria almost three years ago and opened a second studio in Langford in January.

“We both wanted to get into the fitness world and we both had our own ideas about how that would look but we thought we’d be stronger together than apart and that’s definitely been true,” 29-year-old Hayley explains.

Both women played team sports growing up and are clearly passionate about fitness.

“I love going to the boutique fitness studios, which I think Victoria was definitely lacking. My husband (Bruce Courtnall) and I both do road cycling so I always was into cycling and spin as well,” the 32-year-old Victorian says.

“I think fitness just brings well-being to everybody’s life and it’s so enriching and enhancing and such a journey for everybody — and it’s different for everybody,” adds Hayley. “I’ve seen it be such a positive thing in my life, it’s hard not to be passionate about it.”

When they first started talking about going into business together, Hayley and Victoria punched out ideas on the boxing concept but say they settled on spin instead because it was the safer bet for their first foray into the fitness business.

“Boxing was somewhat untouched at the time, even in the US, so we thought let’s get into the market in Victoria with something that’s a proven concept and learn from that,” Hayley explains. “It’s great to be part of a franchise that has such great brand recognition across Canada right now and we got to figure out the nitty-gritty details of what it means to own a fitness studio.”

But even as they built the SPINCO business, they always

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had a bigger plan in mind.

“It was really important for Hayley and me, from the beginning, to have our own brand,” Victoria says. “We looked at developing spin on our own but I think it worked out really well to have the experience of the franchise and then build on that to branch out on our own.”

For Victoria, who was a mortgage broker, and Hayley, who had her own catering business in Kelowna, the biggest business challenge has been learning how to manage so many people.

“It was a part of the business we really didn’t expect to take up so much time,” Hayley explains. “But it’s been so lovely working with all of our trainers and front desk staff and we’ve brought friends onboard.

Balancing those relationships has been a learning curve and you want to make sure everyone stays happy.”

“I think we’ve been able to

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overcome that by building an incredible team, over time, that embodies our vision and executes it on a daily basis,” Victoria adds, who says they learn something new every day. “The biggest thing we’ve learned through all of this is that there is always more to learn because the moment you stop learning, you stop improving and we constantly want to be improving.”

But the entrepreneurs, both young mothers, say by far the greatest challenge is the worklife balance and trying to grow their families while growing their business.

“In this period of starting the businesses, Hayley’s had two kids and I’ve had a baby and I’m pregnant again,” says Victoria, who is due with her second child in October.

“Literally, one of us has always been pregnant since we started this,” laughs Hayley. “So trying to find the balance between having a really amazing opportunity and career in front of us — being able to do exactly what we love — and being able to spend time with our families and nurture those relationships as well is a big balancing act.”

For Hayley, who’s married to business guru Peter Gustavson’s son, Matthew, having expert advice close at hand has definitely been a big help.

“Fitness just brings well-being to everybody’s life and it’s so enriching and enhancing and such a journey for everybody — and it’s different for everybody.”

“I get really, really great business advice from my father-inlaw,” she laughs. “Sometimes I like to think I might know more than I do, and then I realize he’s always right.”

So what’s the best advice he’s given her?

“To always think about working on the business and not getting tied up working in the business,” Hayley says. “Peter constantly wants us to grow and the only way to do that is to be working on the business and not in the business.”

For both women, marrying into famous families has been positive when it comes to name recognition, but it can also have its drawbacks.

“The Courtnall name brings a reputation of being athletic, so that’s certainly helped us, but people always just assume it’s our husbands’ business,” Victoria says. “They’re very supportive husbands but they’re not involved in the business.”

Giving back to the community is also important for Victoria and Hayley, who grew up here. Both businesses have a weekly charity class, with all the proceeds going to different causes.

SPINCO’s is a ‘Spin it Forward’ ride and SPAR has ‘Punch for a Purpose.’

“It’s also a discounted class so people get a chance to try it for half price and they get to feel good about it because they’re helping a charity,” Victoria explains.

As this dynamic duo muscles their way to even greater success, they plan to take SPAR across the country. But they know it won’t be easy.

“A good friend of mine always says: ‘Get comfortable with being uncomfortable. It’s the only way you learn and grow,’” Victoria says.

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Specializing in: Kitchen and Bathroom Cabinetry, Closet Organizers, Laundry & Mudroom Storage Solutions locally owned & locally manufactured • 2189 keating cross road • 250-652-5200 www.harbourcitykitchens.com

FASHION TALKINGWITHTESS

Real Magic LATE FALL ushers in a time of joy and fellowship as our calendars fill up with family and community gatherings, fundraising events and dressy celebrations. November brings the BC Cancer Foundation’s annual Jingle Mingle fundraising event that raises money to support research and enhancements to patient care at BC Cancer in Victoria.

For this issue’s fashion story, Boulevard teamed up with BC Cancer - Victoria to present a twist on the classic, dressy event look. Here, we present individuals in our community who are involved with BC Cancer or who have faced a cancer diagnosis themselves, revealing how these experiences have changed their outlooks on life.

P H OTO S & S T Y L I N G BY LIA CROWE

SHINE BRIGHT!

Sparkle never goes out of style.

Sequin tank ($395) and sequin skirt ($395) by Luisa Cerano from Bagheera Boutique; ankle strapped heels ($359) by Chie Mihara from Footloose Shoes; gold triangle shaped earrings ($275) by Alexis Bittar from Violette Boutique.

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“My new ‘normal’ has led me to make decisions I never used to make. I am constantly doing things I’ve never done before, as well as taking advantage of normal everyday life of being happy and healthy and realizing how precious life is. I don’t sweat the little stuff and I’m learning not to stress about things that are out of my control. I focus on what makes me truly happy and spend time with people who lift me up and bring more light to my life. I realized that if I can beat cancer, I can do anything.”

Emily Cox

Cancer Survivor NED (No Evidence of Disease) as of August 2019

THE FEMININE TUX.

Black camisole ($345) and black skinny trousers ($495) by Luisa Cerano, striped long blazer ($550)

by Circolo from Bagheera Boutique; pointed heel loafers ($369) by Chie Mihara from Footloose Shoes; mixed chain necklace ($90) and onyx earrings ($85)

by Hailey Gerrits from Violette Boutique.

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“Ever since I was a young kid, magic was always something that felt like the impossible was in fact possible if you truly believed. Growing up, three of my grandparents had cancer. Two of them passed away from it but my grandmother beat it. Nothing is impossible if you truly believe it.�

Philip Ryan

Illusionist and Mind Reader

JERSEY GETS ELEVATED!

Navy double-knit crew neck shirt ($155) by Dstrezzed, black skinny leg jeans ($195) by 34 Heritage, jersey knit jacket ($645)

by Circolo, all from On Jeff: Handmade bracelet ($98) by Pig & Hen from Citizen Clothing; Slim skinny Citizen Clothing.

jeans ($255) by Adriano Goldschmied from Outlooks for men.

“Three words come to mind when I think about how surviving cancer has changed me: perspective, clarity and reality. Reality that you are not invincible, that before cancer there were days and moments that were undervalued and taken for granted. Reality that one day there won’t be any more days. Clarity of mind, of body and of the people surrounding you: my strong and fabulous daughters, my fantastic husband, my parents, friends and so many more. Perspective is a constant work in progress. Shortly after treatment and news of a good outcome, it was easy to hold on to perspective: literally every minute I felt grateful and awake, alive and unstoppable, and unshaken by day-to-day stressors, big or small. Several years later, perspective is there but it sits in my back pocket and I have to remember to pull it out. With this gift of moving forward, I try and give back to my family, my friends, community and, of course, to the BC Cancer Agency. “

Ralf and Miranda Mundel Cancer Survivor, Sponsors and Corporate Donors

“We are so blessed to have the BC Cancer Agency in Victoria working tirelessly to help patients, and importantly, trying to find ways to get rid of this scourge of our society. They do awesome work and, along with the BC Cancer Foundation, are so worthy of everyone’s support.”

On Ralf:

CLASSIC WITH A TWIST.!

White pleated shirt ($386) by Tiger of Sweden, wool blazer ($930) by John Vavartos, and black suit pants ($169) by Matinique, all from Hughes Clothing.

On Miranda:

DRIPPING WITH GORGEOUS DETAILS.

Floral embroidery and fringe dress ($475) by Twinset from Hughes Clothing.

“Helping people through their cancer journey is a very humbling thing to witness, and very telling of what’s truly important in life. No one ever tells me they wish they’d worked more hours, made more money or dated more people. It’s almost alway the same, regret of not spending more time with the people they love, friends and family, or regret of not having seen more of the world.

So I’ve learned not to hold back in life; the future is uncertain for all of us. Although many of these men and women are going through the most difficult time of their lives, they often find strength and resilience they didn’t even know they had. And for many, that new found strength carries with them forever. “

Dr. Abraham Alexander Radiation Oncologist with BC Cancer - Victoria

DOUBLE-BREASTED IS BACK AND WE COULDN’T BE HAPPIER. Grey turtleneck ($185) and double-breasted blazer ($625) by Sand Copenhagen, wool pants ($295) by Mason.S, black dress shoes ($275) by Brothers X Frere, all from Outlooks for Men.

"Cancer is a cause I care about deeply, and volunteering provides me with a sense of purpose. Almost everyone in BC has been affected, whether directly or indirectly, by cancer, and being on the Advisory Council for the BC Cancer Foundation I am able to give something back to an organization that has impacted so many people. My eyes are open, wide open, to the tremendous things happening at the BC Cancer centre and with cancer treatment and research as a whole. Volunteering for the BC Cancer Foundation is good for my soul, it is a reminder to think outward and to give thanks. I will forever be changed by the experience.”

Jessica O’Brien Cameron

BC Cancer Foundation’s Regional Advisory Council member and donor

WHEN THE INVITE SAYS “BLACK TIE” IT’S AN INVITATION TO WOW! Black and white plunge gown ($432) by Nicole Miller, black crocodile heels ($245) by Senso, 18k gold plated hoop earrings ($112) and 18k gold plated bangles ($75) by Nectar Nectar, amethyst cocktail ring ($159) by Kala, all from Bernstein & Gold.

Makeup and hair by Jen Clark.

Production and Styling assistant: Vellar Chou .

Photographed on location above Hughes Clothing. A huge thank you to Rebecca Burrows, owner of Hughes Clothing, for hosting our team for the day in your gorgeous space.

FINDING

Creating a “cocoon-able” space

BY LORIN TURNER P H OTO S BY LIA CROWE

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BESPOKE D E S I G N Fine Made in Canada Custom Upholstered Furniture Hickory Chair & Century Fine Custom Home Furnishings Farrow & Ball Paint & Wallpaper Lighting, Bedding & Accessories Design & Decorating Services

BESPOKE At its core, hygge is about giving yourself permission to slow down, live in the moment and celebrate the cosy comfort within your home and with your loved ones.

D E SI G N

A

UTUMN on Vancouver Island is a uniquely beautiful time of year. Warm pockets of sunshine left over from the summer are accentuated with the riot of changing colours, blending into cool autumn nights.

But as the golden days fade into endless gray, rain-soaked weeks, the anticipation of a West Coast winter is not the easiest on our mental well-being. Not quite the festive holiday season, this sudden change of atmosphere can affect our energy and dampen spirits. We retreat into our homes, instinctively yearning for hibernation. Instead of fighting against

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WOULD A TRUST M A K E S E N S E I N YO U R FINANCIAL PLAN?

Peace of mind comes from knowing that your final wishes will be carried out. A trust is a highly effective wealth management vehicle which could aid in helping you achieve those goals.

Contact us today to learn how including a trust in your estate plan could make sense for you.

We are here to help you reach your goals.

Michael O’Brien, CIM, CFP Senior Portfolio Manager Jessica O’Brien Cameron, PFP, B.Comm.

Associate Investment Advisor Thomas McPherson Associate Investment Advisor The O’Brien Investment Group 250 361-2272 www.obrieninvestmentgroup.com CIBC Private Wealth Management consists of services provided

by CIBC and certain of its subsidiaries, including CIBC Wood Gundy, a division of CIBC World Markets Inc. “CIBC Private Wealth Management” is a registered trademark of CIBC, used under license. “Wood Gundy” is a registered trademark of CIBC World Markets Inc. If you are currently a CIBC Wood Gundy client, please contact your Investment Advisor.

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this need, we should prepare our spaces to maximize our enjoyment of this season.

Enter “hygge.” You may have heard of it. Over the past couple of years, this Danish lifestyle has gained international attention. Pronounced “hoo-ga” or “hue-gah,” hygge is more about embodying a sensibility of comfort than the creation of a defined design trend. It is the practice of mindfulness brought to life within our homes.

At its core, hygge is about giving yourself permission to slow down, live in the moment and celebrate the cozy comfort within your home and with your loved ones. Even with the long months of bracing Scandinavian winters, the Danish are consistently ranked as the happiest people in the world.

They’ve leaned into the idea of wellness and it has become a core element of their daily lives, regardless of the season.

It seems so contrary to today’s thinking, but one of the main tenets of hygge is slowing down, doing less. Focusing on the deliberateness of simplicity, it’s about enjoying the process of brewing tea or slow cooking a stew and giving yourself permission to just curl up and read a book. How can you not love a lifestyle movement that encourages you to swaddle up in knits or hunker down in your favourite pair of old sweats?

Caretakers of Beautiful Landscapes

F

allingwater provided both garden maintenance and a larger install which included design, planning, grading, planting, lighting and irrigation. They offered clear expectations and timelines, and followed up after the work to ensure we were completely satisfied.

“

Decorating for hygge When it comes to decorating our homes, hygge relies on the “less is more” approach. For furnishings, think modern Scandinavian pieces, streamlined shapes with open legs.

Upholstered furniture pieces should be comfortable, not rigid. This is a time to sink down and relax. Dining chairs need to be cushy enough for extended social gatherings.

There is a nod to minimalism with hygge: never crowding your space with more than you need.

Don’t assume you need to replace everything to embody the hygge mandate. Cherishing the past and highlighting your family’s heritage is as important as the new. Be open to paring down. A little de-cluttering can better honour the mementos that hold deep meaning for you and your family.

Cultivate your inner Maria Kondo (many of her practices align with the hygge mentality). Consider the items and pieces that spark joy and warm the cockles of your heart.

Another objective of hygge is to quiet the busy mind.

Soften your home with whites, creams and naturally derived neutrals to amplify peace in the overall visual effect. The intent is to create a space of comfortable ease for you, your

I only have positive things to say about Fallingwater Property Services and we will definitely have the crew back for our next project! ” Cadboro Bay Residence

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family and your guests. Reduce the use of bright colours, sharp geometrics and polished objects; embrace the calming effects of wintry whites. Look for matte textures such as concrete or clay when choosing dishware, table lamps and accent pieces.

Layered textures are key to creating a “cocoon-able” space. Chunky knits, nubby fabrics and sinkable furnishings add natural calmness. Warm and cozy throw cushions, blankets and plush area rugs are great additions to your current space. Look for natural materials in wools, cottons, linens. Textiles should be soft to the touch.

Natural wood elements are a perfect way to add warmth to your space, whether it be a teak end table, a walnut candleholder or a handcrafted acacia bowl. The gnarled and knotty textures of wood are a perfect companion to the snowy whites. Increase the calming power of nature by adding plants and greenery. Stick with hardy varieties that thrive in dry environments with minimal sunlight like succulents, aloe, and jade.

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And for the simplest step of all, dim the lights. Candles and their gentle glow embody the cocooning mentality.

Light a fire and set the ambiance to low. Accent lights and fixtures can be warm as well as energy efficient. Look for LED bulbs with a warm white temperature of 3000k or higher.

Hygge embodies the joy to be found in the quieter moments of our hectic lives. Too often we focus on efficiency and the ability to multitask as key aspects to a successful life. But understanding and supporting our very human need to retreat can be just as beneficial. Give yourself a cozy sanctuary where you can recharge and rejoice in the wintry days ahead.

Homebuilder: Goodison Construction Home designer: Bruce Wilkin Inc. Interior design: Mari Kushino Design Styling by: Lorin Turner, Zebra Group Accent table, area rug, table lamps, decorative accents: Bespoke Design

Victoria’s Ultimate Shoe Destination 637 Fort Street 250.383.4040 footlooseshoes.com

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TERRY JOHAL D E V E L O P M E N T S

QUALITY CUSTOM HOME BUILDER AND RENOVATOR TERRYJOHALDEVELOPMENTS.CA

250.418.1660

VICTORIA’S FINEST REAL ESTATE

L U X U R Y AT YO U R D O O R S T E P

822 Lands End

6683 Amwell

1941 Crescent Rd

North Saanich $1,680,000

Brentwood Bay $1,139,000

Oak Bay $5,700,000

Beautifully maintained oceanfront estate with your own private beach! Panoramic water views are captured with large picture windows – a stunning backdrop that never ceases to impress. Generous 0.8 acre parcel offers endless enjoyment with gorgeous gardens & grassy seclusions to enjoy year round. A scenic stairway leading to your low bank beach, perfect for launching a kayak or paddle board.

The ultimate home for work-life balance, this beautiful residence was completely renovated in 2012 to offer everything a family could need. Surrounded by greenery on a quiet street in Brentwood Bay, just minutes from beaches and trails, this home embodies modern West Coast living.

Multiple CARE Awards Winner Zebra Designs masterpiece with walk out to Gonzales Beach, this custom beachfront residence surpasses all expectations. Sweeping ocean & mountain vistas framed by walls of glass. Outside living at its best: an amazing infinity pool, hot tub, outdoor FP, tons of patio & deck space & private beach access.

2100 Falkland Pl

2795 Sea View Rd

Goose Landing

Oak Bay $1,795,000

Ten Mile Point $10,900,000

Stuart Island $17,500,000

Brilliantly updated Oak Bay home that perfectly blends modern luxuries with timeless character.

Bright & open main showcases rich hardwood flooring, large picture windows, wainscoting & a sophisticated design aesthetic. This ideal family home is warm & inviting.

Private Oceanfront estate that epitomizes luxury living. South facing on a double lot with 200 feet of waterfront. Superior in every detail & custom built to achieve excellence. Designer interior is elegant & elaborate, highlighted with modern luxuries.

Resort style living on this 120 acre parcel completely self sustaining, off the grid property.

Surrounding waters renowned for world class fishing. Access at your convenience: via private 94ft dock with boathouse or private helipad.

This property is beyond measure.

735 Humboldt Street, Victoria BC, Canada V8W 1B1

The local real estate agent with the international network: vi.evcanada.com Scott Piercy, Private Office Advisor Personal Real Estate Corporation 250-686-7789 scott.piercy@evcanada.com www.luxurybchomes.com victoria.evcanada.com

1555 Earle Pl

1229 Muirfield Pl

684 Whaletown Rd

Fairfield East $1,049,000

Langford $1,079,000

Cortes Island $3,400,000

Beautifully maintained character home in scenic Fairfield. Thoughtful updates blend with original charm to create a stylish & inviting space. Main features gorgeous hardwood floors & desirable open plan. Modernized kitchen with plenty of cabinet & counter space.

Elegant resort style living with included golf membership at Nicklaus designed Bear Mountain 36 holes of Golf, this home was commissioned to a superior standard. Interior is modern & artistic, with an open concept that encourages entertaining. Chef’s kitchen with premium appliances & granite counters. Regal master retreat with walk-in, 5pc ensuite & private deck.

Supremely unique waterfront property, on Cortes Island. Truly depicting West Coast living with a low bank waterfront that looks out to the sheltered marine ways & neighbouring islands. Main residence offers south facing ocean views framed by floor to ceiling windows & complimented with a modern northwestern design. Showpiece kitchen opens to dining & living rooms with access to spacious sun deck.

731 Rogers Ave

1004/1005 - 100 Saghalie

3350 Upper Terrace Rd

High Quadra $1,139,000

Songhees $3,500,000

Uplands $2,395,000

Picture perfect family home in a well established community. Interior showcases timeless elegance & superior finishes & contemporary design aesthetic. Main offers a gourmet kitchen with high-end cabinetry, wine storage, gas range, bar seating & adjacent eating area. Cozy family rm opens to formal dining rm & living rm with chic FP. Rich hardwood flooring extends throughout, adding warmth & style.

Executive, custom designed PH suite. Gourmet kitchen equipped with Wolf gas stove with DBL ovens. Central island adorned in Quartz. Formal dining rm with spectacular ocean, Downtown & Inner Harbour views. Seascapes continue through principle rooms, framed by floor to ceiling windows. Master retreat with sitting area, walk-in closet & 5pc ensuite.

Victoria character manor surrounded by mature trees & manicured gardens. Situated in prestigious Uplands section of Oak Bay. Chef’s kitchen equipped for the culinary enthusiast with top of line stainless steel appliances. Set on quiet street with beaches, nature parks, Uplands Golf Club & Royal Victoria Yacht club within walking distance.

2249 Oak Bay Avenue, Victoria BC, Canada V8R 1G4

The local real estate agent with the international network: vi.evcanada.com James LeBlanc, Private Office Advisor Personal Real Estate Corporation 250-812-7212 james.leblanc@evcanada.com www.luxurybchomes.com victoria.evcanada.com

exclusive luxury listings

600 LINKLEAS AVENUE | OAK BAY 3 BEDS | 3 BATHS | 413137 | $3,500,000

1535 DESPARD AVENUE | ROCKLAND 5 BEDS | 6 BATHS | 412252 | $3,500,000

574 I S L A N D R OA D | OA K BAY 6 B E D S | 5 BAT H S | 4 08265 | $3,750,0 0 0

622 I N G L E W O O D T E R R AC E | OA K BAY 3 B E D S | 4 BAT H S | 4150 09 | $3,0 0 0,0 0 0

3565 U PPE R T E R R AC E R OA D | U PL A N D S 6 B E D S | 5 BAT H S | 415839 | $2,750,0 0 0

987 B E AC H D R I V E | OA K BAY 3 B E D S | 4 BAT H S | 413769 | $2,495,0 0 0

2197 L A FAY E T T E S T R E E T | OA K BAY 4 B E D S | 4 BAT H S | 412282 | $2, 399,0 0 0

860 V I C TO R I A AV E N U E | OA K BAY 4 B E D S | 5 BAT H S | 4 0 6924 | $2, 389,0 0 0

14 68 R O C K L A N D AV E N U E | R O C K L A N D 7 B E D S | 6 BAT H S | 415526 | $2,675,0 0 0

2803 A R B U T U S R OA D | T E N M I L E P O I N T 5 B E D S | 5 BAT H S | 414937 | $3,0 0 0,0 0 0

4 05-5388 H I L L R I S E T E R R AC E | CO R D OVA BAY 2 B E D S | 2 BAT H S | 413387 | $1,450,0 0 0

JASON BINAB

PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION

JASON.BINAB@THEAGENC YRE.COM 778.265.5552

SARAH BINAB

SAR AH.BINAB@THEAGENC YRE.COM 778.265.5552 THEAGENC YRE.COM/BC

exclusive luxury listings

1851 CRESCENT ROAD | FAIRFIELD EAST 3 BEDS | 5 BATHS | 414675 | $5,000,000

1580 LANDS END ROAD | NORTH SAANICH 3 BEDS | 4 BATHS | 408381 | $5,500,000

767 BY N G S T R E E T | OA K BAY 4 B E D S | 4 BAT H S | 413528 | $2,10 0,0 0 0

1234 T R A N S I T R OA D | OA K BAY 3 B E D S | 3 BAT H S | 415780 | $2,0 0 0,0 0 0

785 H A M P S H I R E R OA D | OA K BAY 5 B E D S | 4 BAT H S | 414 051 | $1,980,0 0 0

2585 C R A N M O R E R OA D | OA K BAY 5 B E D S | 5 BAT H S | 415665 | $1,925,0 0 0

2943 H E N D E R S O N R OA D | OA K BAY 6 B E D S | 3 BAT H | 413717 | $1, 30 0,0 0 0

2290 E S T E VA N AV E N U E | OA K BAY 3 B E D S | 4 BAT H S | 415733 | $1, 250,0 0 0

130 B E E C H WO O D AV E N U E | FA I R FI E L D E A S T 4 B E D S | 3 BAT H S | 415785 | $1,4 0 0,0 0 0

2388 A L PI N E C R E S C E N T | Q U E E N S WO O D 4 B E D S | 2 BAT H S | 414529 | $1, 20 0,0 0 0

50 4 -75 S O N G H E E S R OA D | S O N G H E E S 2 B E D S | 2 BAT H S | 413494 | $950,0 0 0

THEAGENCYRE.COM/BC

Iconic Glass House 3051 McAnally Road, Victoria

$6,600,000

“The Point”. Be captain of your ship in this incredible residence built to celebrate over 1,200 ft of ocean frontage & 270 degree views of the West Coast seascape & Olympic Mountains beyond. On 1.59 acres with 2 private beaches. Separate garage & caretaker accommodation. Spectacular!

Gleaming & Bright 304 - 945 McClure Street, Victoria

Private Oasis $575,000 1217 Garden Gate Drive, Victoria

Immaculate 1,277 sq. ft., 2 bed, 2 bath condo in a steel & concrete building in walking distance of Cook Street Village & Downtown Victoria. No restriction on ages or pet sizes.

Oceanfront Playground $2,650,000 5179 East Sooke Road, Victoria

Incredible hideaway with stunning westerly views from an elevated location in Garden Gate Estates.

Inviting, well maintained 4,177 sq. ft. home with 3.14 easy-care acres.

$7,500,000

Amazing 10 acre sheltered oceanfront headland with 1,620 ft. of shoreline & a 2015 custom 5,672 sq.ft home. Stunning private dock. Ocean, mountains & islands!

“We believe every home is a mansion regardless of size, location or price”

MACLEOD GROUP Glynis MacLeod

Kirsten MacLeod

250.661.7232

250.686.3385

Personal Real Estate Corporation

Sales Associate

macleodgroup@sothebysrealty.ca M AC L EO D - G ROU P.COM

SOTHEBYSRE ALT Y.CA

Sotheby’s International Realty Canada, Independently Owned and Operated. E.&O.E.: This information is from sources which we deem reliable, but must be verified by prospective Purchasers and may be subject to change or withdrawal. Not intended to solicit properties already under agreement.

1461 THURLOW ROAD $885,000

4165 CLINTON PALACE $749,000

1851 SAN MIGUEL ROAD $825,000

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2640 Queenswood QUEENSWOOD Drive DRIVE 2640 ExclusiveWaterfront WaterfrontAcreage Acreage -Private - PrivateBeach Beach Exclusive

RADCLIFFE Lane LANE 639 Radcliffe Spectacular Waterfront in South Oak Bay South Oak Bay’s Finest Waterfront Home

2615 Queenswood QUEENSWOOD Drive DRIVE 2615 Luxurious a Gated Sunny & PrivateFamily CustomHome Homeon– steps fromAcreage the Beach

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2616 UEENSWOOD D RIVE 2616 Q Queenswood Lane Incredible NewNew Custom Waterfront - Luxurious World-Class Custom Oceanfront Residence

2032 ESPLANADE 5038 Cambria Wood Terrace 5 Fabulous bdrms/beautiful in sunny & on quiet Cordova Bay SeasidelotLiving Right Willows Beach

2924 Mt Baker View Road

10 Mile Point Waterfront with Boathouse

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3931 Avenue 10493Tudor ALLBAY ROAD 2017 Westcoast modern w/lots of options, openLuxury design Oceanfront Masterpiece - Tuscan-Inspired

2801 Avenue 2940 MT Tudor BAKER V IEW ROAD

2 Acres withDesign Ocean-Views – 10 Mile Point Elegant/Flexible Peaceful Oceanfront Setting

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2032 2921 SEAEsplanade VIEW ROAD Fabulous/quiet seaside home on sandy .72 Acre Oceanview Building Site inWillows 10 MileBeach Pt

VICTORIA’S ESTATE LEADER Since Jan/2019 Over $43,000,000 in TrustedREAL Real Estate Transactions Approaching RealeEstate Transactions Total i n& tApproaching rus t e d1 Billion r e$1,000,000,000 a l eins tat t rin a ns ac tSales! ions.

Williams is Your Negotiating Negotiating Advantage Lisa Williams Advantage BuyingLisa or Selling: Lisa Williams* Williams* is Your Your Negotiating Negotiating Advantage Buying or Selling: Lisa is Advantage *

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**Personal Personal Real Estate Estate Corporation Corporation * Personal Real Estate Corporation

Krista Voitchovsky, Real Estate Advisor 250-888-3256 | krista@kristav.ca www.kristav.ca

606-21 Dallas Road

Mark Gutknecht, Real Estate Advisor 250-880-1000 | mark.gutknecht@engelvoelkers.com www.kristavandmarkgteam.evrealestate.com

14 Erskine Lane

Victoria James Bay | $1,100,000

View Royal | $599,000

Elegant & sophisticated Shoal Point, located at the mouth of the inner harbour. Beautiful, bright, South facing luxury 2 bed, 2 bath condo with breathtaking ocean & mountain views from almost every room and your covered, semi private deck. New light Maple flooring, gas fireplace and a den add to the appeal.

Some amenities include a 25m lap pool, fitness room, concierge, guest suites, bike & kayak storage and a very social community.

Elegantly updated, end-unit townhome with the Master on the main floor. Large, eat-in kitchen, Granite counter tops & SS appliances. Brazilian Cherry floors in dining room and cozy living room with gas fireplace. Downstairs a large family/entertainment room with gas fireplace, wood floors, 4 piece bath, and sliding door to a partially covered patio. Two more bedrooms complete the lower level.

4060 Lockehaven Drive

324-21 Dallas Road

Ten Mile Point, Saanich East | $3,200,000

Victoria James Bay | $1,069,000

this immaculate, oceanfront home has a private boat launch, anchorage and walk out beach access. Enjoy breathtaking ocean views from nearly every room in this spacious, bright, vaulted ceiling home. Perfect layout for those wanting one level living. Bright kitchen with high end appliances, radiant infloor heating and a River Rock fireplace all add to the appeal of this unique 3 bed, 3 bath home.

Stunning 2 bed 3 bath luxury condo on the inner harbour side of the award winning Shoal Point building. Enjoy all the action of the inner harbour from your 772 sqft. deck. Lovely open concept layout with a gas fireplace. Each bedroom has their own ensuite for complete privacy. Some amenities are a 25m lap pool, concierge, fitness room. Friday night happy hours with your neighbours!

2249 Oak Bay Avenue, Victoria, BC V8R 1G4 • Office +1 778-433-8885

The local real estate agent with the international network: vi.evcanada.com

1144 Fort Street, Victoria, BC

The Value of Experience

Sylvia Therrien

Personal Real Estate Corporation

4826 Spring Road | $3,295,000

1564 Monterey | $1,145,000

7178 Mark Lane | $2,995,000

5203-2829 Arbutus | $1,050,000

510-770 Fisgard | $1,175,000

201-2580 Penrhyn | $769,000

Custom Home on 4.5 acres with Panoramic Views

Waterfront with Dock on Willis Point

Stunning Penthouse at The Hudson

Charming Character home steps from Oak Bay Avenue

Large, Updated suite at Wedgewood Estates

2 Bed/ 2 Bath Condo in Cadboro Bay Village

Sylvia@SylviaTherrien.ca • LuxuryWaterfront.ca • SylviaTherrien.ca 250.385.2033 • Cell: 250.888.6621 • Toll-free: 1.888.886.1286

F

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$4,500,000

$4,650,000 9700 Glenelg Avenue, North Saanich

mls®

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$2,395,000 485 Dunmora Court, Saanichton

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# 414103

mls®

# 415365

mls®

# 415318

$3,995,000

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Meet ERICA SCHEFFER born and raised in victoria, erica has grown with the rapidly changing city and is well-informed of the surrounding areas and the unique qualities they have to offer. as part of the agency, a full-service, luxury real estate brokerage and lifestyle company, she strongly believes in culture, collaboration, and empowering clients with knowledge and expertise. erica is ready and excited to help you realize your real estate potential.

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WINE TASTINGS

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FOOD+FEAST

Secrets to making divine ramen at home

BY HEIDI FINK P H OTO S BY DON DENTON

P

EOPLE who cook ramen at home usually fall into two camps. Camp one uses instant soup via dried noodles and a flavour packet, possibly gussied up with some vegetables. Camp two undertakes an uber-authentic three-day process involving long-simmered pork bones and multiple trips to an Asian market.

But what if I told you there was a great middle ground, where rich homemade ramen broth was possible in about one hour?

A big bowl of ramen (real ramen, not instant) is one of the most delicious and satisfying foods to eat. The rich and flavourful broth, the bouncy noodles, the restrained toppings, and the tasty

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bits and sprinkles combine to give us solid comfort mixed with street-food excitement. I’ve been playing around with quicker, more accessible methods to make delicious ramen at home and I’m here to share my tips. While we may never be equal to a ramen master, we can all learn to make an excellent bowl of soup.

First, noodles. You can find fresh, dried and instant ramen noodles in Asian markets and in the Asian section of most supermarkets. They are all acceptable choices, so long as they are cooked at the last minute, and just barely cooked at that.

The bouncy texture of just-cooked noodles is part of the charm of authentic ramen. But, if you have access to a shop that makes and sells its own fresh noodles, buy them! In Victoria,

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we are lucky to have I Kyu Noodle House in Chinatown that sells homemade fresh ramen noodles by the pound. I highly recommend their ramen. It is superior in taste and texture.

Next, the flavour base, known in Japanese as tare (pronounced TAH-rey). While every ramen shop’s tare is a trade secret, it usually falls into one of three categories: salt, soy sauce or miso paste, mixed into a base of dashi (see recipe).

Traditionally, tare is added to the bowl before the broth and noodles, but I have added it to the broth itself to streamline the process and to give us ramen newbies more control over the final flavour (because how much tare are you supposed to add to each bowl anyway?)

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Clockwise from left: pork,chicken and vegetable ramen.

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Now, the broth! The big secret is to start with chicken broth (either good-quality store-bought or homemade) and add lots of flavour and great mouthfeel with aromatic vegetables, ground meat, unflavoured gelatin and Japanese seasonings. A 40-minute simmer is all you need to extract tons of flavour from the meat and vegetables; the dissolved gelatin adds the mouthfeel you get from long-simmered bones; and the dashi/tare mixture brings an authentic ramen taste. You can make the broth a day or two in advance, or make a huge batch and freeze it for a couple of months. And yes, I have included a vegetarian option in the recipes below.

Finally, toppings. The options are really quite endless.

This is one of the ways to get creative with your soup, and personalize it to your tastes. Use any vegetable, either cooked or raw, and any stewed, grilled or roasted meat.

Crispy tofu, soft-boiled eggs, sliced green onion, chili oil, garlic oil or marinated mushrooms. Explore your supermarket or Asian market and buy foods that strike your fancy. Thinly slice the toppings in advance.

When you sit down to enjoy your delicious, custom bowl of homemade ramen, do not forget the most important step: slurp your noodles loudly and with satisfaction.

Celebrating 35 35 years years Celebrating of having the pleasure of having the pleasure of dressing all my of dressing all my customers and friends. customers and friends.

Barbara Hubbard “Thank you” Barbara Hubbard "Thank you"

FROM DENMARK

FROM DENMARK

DASHI — JAPANESE FLAVOUR BASE Makes approx. 3 cups One of the essentials of authentic Japanese cuisine, dashi is a light soup stock made with ingredients high in umami, that flavour compound that makes everything taste extra savoury and delicious. These ingredients are sold in Japanese and Chinese markets. Dashi is used to flavour soups and sauces of all kinds, and is an essential part of good ramen broth.

In Sidney Beacon Avenue In Sidney

Beacon Avenue Baden-Baden Barbara’s Boutique Boutique Baden-Baden Barbara's 2485 Beacon Ave. Boutique 250 655 7118

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4 cups water Two 4-inch-long pieces of konbu (dried kelp) 1 cup dried bonito flakes (smoked-dried fish, a.k.a.

Katsuobushi) Use scissors to snip each piece of konbu in several places.

Place water and konbu in a 2-quart pot. Let soak for 30 to 60 minutes, until konbu has softened and expanded. Place pot on a burner and turn the heat to medium. Heat until the water comes to a boil, removing the konbu with tongs just before the water boils. It will take quite a while for the water to come to a boil because it is being heated over medium heat rather than high heat. The lower heat allows the flavour of the konbu to better infuse the water.

Once the water has come to a boil and you have removed the konbu, add the bonito flakes. Return to a boil and then immediately turn off the heat. Skim off any scum. Add a pinch of salt to the water and let the stock sit for about 2 minutes, until all the bonito flakes sink to the bottom.

Immediately strain dashi through a triple-thickness of cheesecloth and discard the solids. Use the dashi immediately or refrigerate for later use. Lasts 2 or 3 days in the fridge, or up to 1 month in the freezer.

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QUICK RAMEN PORK BROTH WITH SHIO (SALT) This is a very basic clear broth, with lots of flavour and good mouthfeel. And it’s much quicker to make than traditional pork ramen broth.

1 Tbsp (15 ml) vegetable oil 1 medium onion, chopped medium 1 medium leek, sliced and washed 6 medium garlic cloves, smashed and peeled 1 (1-inch) piece fresh ginger, peeled, sliced into 1/4-inch-thick coins 1 pound (454 g) ground pork 1 litre (4 cups) chicken broth (e.g. Pacific) 500 ml (2 cups) water 2 to 3 tsp (10 to 15 ml) salt, to taste 1 pouch unflavoured gelatin, soaked in ½ cup cold water up to 1 cup (250 ml) dashi, or to taste (see recipe above) Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat until shimmering. Stir in the onion, leek, garlic and ginger and cook until softened, about 2 minutes. Add the ground pork and cook, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon for about 2 minutes. Stir in the chicken broth, water and salt, bring to a simmer and cook uncovered at a simmer (not a boil) until the broth is flavourful, about 30 or 40 minutes. In the last minute of cooking, add the gelatin and all its soaking water, stirring to dissolve.

Pour the broth through a fine-mesh strainer and discard solids. Stir dashi into the broth, starting with one-half a cup and increasing as desired. Taste and adjust seasonings by adding more salt and/or dashi until desired flavour is achieved. The broth should be a bit on the salty side so that it still has tons of flavour when eaten with noodles and toppings.

The broth can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days, and frozen for up to 2 months.

QUICK RAMEN CHICKEN BROTH WITH SHOYU (SOY SAUCE) A clear broth with a nice chicken flavour and a strong tangy hit of soy sauce.

1 Tbsp (15 ml) vegetable oil 1 medium onion, chopped medium 1 medium leek, sliced and washed 6 medium garlic cloves, smashed and peeled 1 (1-inch) piece fresh ginger, peeled, sliced into 1/4-inch-thick coins 1 pound (454 g) ground chicken 1 litre (4 cups) chicken broth (e.g. Pacific) 750 ml (3 cups) water ½ tsp (2.5 ml) salt, or more, to taste 2 to 3 Tbsp (30 to 45 ml) Japanese soy sauce (e.g. Kikkoman), or more, to taste 1 pouch unflavoured gelatin, soaked in ½ cup cold water up to 1 cup (250 ml) dashi, or to taste (see recipe above) Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat until shimmering. Stir in the onion, leek, garlic and ginger and cook until softened, about 2 minutes. Add the ground chicken and cook, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon for about 2 86

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minutes. Stir in the chicken broth, water and salt, bring to a simmer and cook uncovered at a simmer (not a boil) until the broth is flavourful, about 30 or 40 minutes. In the last minute of cooking, add the gelatin and all its soaking water, stirring to dissolve.

Pour the broth through a fine-mesh strainer and discard solids. Add the soy sauce to the broth. Stir dashi into the broth, starting with one-half a cup and increasing as desired. Taste and adjust seasonings by adding more salt and/or soy sauce and/or dashi until desired flavour is achieved. The broth should be a bit on the salty side, so that it still has tons of flavour when eaten with noodles and toppings.

The broth can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days, and frozen for up to 2 months.

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QUICK RAMEN VEGETARIAN BROTH WITH MISO (FERMENTED SOY) The addition of the dried mushrooms and miso paste provides extraordinary depth of flavour to this vegetarian broth.

1 Tbsp (15 ml) vegetable oil 1 medium onion, chopped medium 1 medium leek, sliced and washed 8 medium garlic cloves, smashed and peeled 2 pieces fresh ginger (1-inch), peeled, sliced into 1/4-inch-thick coins 4 to 6 dried shiitake mushrooms 2 four-inch pieces dried konbu seaweed 1 litre (4 cups) vegetable broth 1 litre (4 cups) water 1 tsp (5 ml) salt, or more, to taste 4 to 6 Tbsp (60 to 90 ml) white miso paste, to taste a few drops toasted sesame oil 1 Tbsp (15 ml) dry sherry – optional 1 Tbsp (15 ml) brown sugar – optional Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat until shimmering. Stir in the

A bowl of vegetable ramen.

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onion, leek, garlic and ginger and cook until softened, about 2 minutes. Add the vegetable broth, water, shiitake mushrooms, konbu seaweed, and salt. Bring to a simmer and cook until the broth is flavourful, about 30 or 40 minutes, removing the konbu with tongs after about 10 minutes of cooking.

Pour the broth through a fine-mesh strainer.

Remove the shiitake mushrooms to a plate to cool – these will be used later. Discard the rest of the solids.

Place 4 Tbsp of miso paste in a small mixing bowl. Add one-half a cup of the broth and whisk until the miso and broth are smooth. Stir this mixture back into the pot of broth and mix well. Taste and adjust seasonings by adding more salt and/or miso until desired flavour is achieved. The broth should be a bit on the salty side so that it still has tons of flavour when eaten with noodles and toppings. Stir in a few drops of toasted sesame oil.

If you like, add the sherry and/or brown sugar.

The broth can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days, and frozen for up to 2 months.

For the reserved shiitake mushrooms: Remove the stems and discard. Slice the mushroom caps into thin strips and place in a small bowl. Toss these strips with approximately 1 tsp of soy sauce, stirring well to coat evenly. Transfer to a sealed container and refrigerate until ready to serve the ramen.

CHAR SIU PORK Ramen traditionally uses chashu pork belly as a topping, but I prefer the intensity of flavour and ease of preparation of Chinese char siu (which is, incidentally, the inspiration for Japanese chashu).

2.25 pounds (1 kg) pork tenderloin or boneless pork shoulder roasts Marinade: ½ cup (125 ml) soy sauce ½ cup (125 ml) white sugar ⅓ cup (83 ml) hoisin sauce ¼ cup (60 ml) dry sherry ½ tsp. (2.5 ml) Chinese Five Spices 8 cloves garlic, minced equal amount ginger, minced 1 ½ tsp (7 ml) toasted sesame oil For glaze: Reserved marinade ¼ cup (60 ml) brown sugar 2 Tbsp + 2 tsp (40 ml) ketchup Use the tenderloin as is, but the shoulder roasts should be cut down into pieces about the same thickness as the tenderloins. Cover roasts with marinade and marinate at least 4 hours, up to 24 hours, turning roasts from time to time.

Remove pork roasts from marinade and roast in a 325°F

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A bowl of char sui ramen.

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convection oven (or 350° regular oven setting), basting with reduced glaze (see below) at least twice, until pork registers 140° F. To reduce glaze, strain garlic and ginger out of marinade.

Bring glaze to a boil, cook until reduced by one third, stir in brown sugar and ketchup. Boil for a few minutes. Use this to glaze the pork roasts as they are cooking. When the roasts are completely cool, thinly slice against the grain to serve in ramen.

Precooked char siu can be kept in the fridge up to 4 days or in the freezer up to 2 months.

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1 pound (454 g, about 1.5 blocks) medium tofu, Superior or Soyganic brands 1 Tbsp (15 ml) toasted sesame oil ½ tsp (2.5 ml) salt Preheat oven to 400°F. Rinse and drain tofu. Slice into small cubes. Place on a parchment-lined baking tray. Drizzle with 1 Tbsp sesame oil and sprinkle with the salt. Use the edges of the parchment to gently lift, flip and turn the tofu around so to coat each piece as evenly as possible with the oil and salt. Lay the parchment flat again and use your hands to gently spread out the tofu into an even layer, with no tofu pieces touching each other, if possible.

Place in the oven, on the bottom shelf, and bake for 20 minutes, rotating the tray once during cooking, until the tofu is light golden and turning crispy in spots. Do not overcook.

The tofu will dry up and shrivel once it cools if you overcook it.

Remove from oven and set aside.

SOFT BOILED EGGS Eggs with a soft-cooked centre are a hallmark of most bowls of ramen. I prefer not to marinate the eggs because I find the egg whites get rubbery very quickly, but they are flavourful and traditional.

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4 eggs Marinade: 2 Tbsp (30 ml) soy sauce, 2 Tbsp (30 ml) mirin – mixed in a Ziploc bag

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Method one: Have a bowl of ice water ready. Place the 4 eggs in a pot and cover with cold water so the eggs are completely submerged. Bring to a boil and boil for 1 to 2 minutes. Immediately remove the eggs and place in the bowl of ice water. Let cool and then peel. Place eggs in the marinade, if desired, and refrigerate up to 4 hours.

Method two: Have a bowl of ice water ready. Bring a pot of water to a boil. Immediately add the eggs and simmer for 5 to 6 minutes, depending on how soft you like your yolks.

Immediately remove from water and place in the bowl of ice water. Let cool and then peel. Place eggs in the marinade, if desired, and refrigerate up to 4 hours.

GINGER-GARLIC-CHILI OIL

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Storm protection, heat retention and room darkening too.

This flavourful oil tastes delicious drizzled on practically anything. ¼ cup to ⅓ cup (60 to 85 ml) canola oil 4 to 6 cloves garlic, minced equal quantity of minced fresh ginger ½ tsp (2.5 ml) dried chili flakes 1 tsp (5 ml) toasted sesame oil Heat the oil, garlic and ginger in a sauté pan over medium-low heat. Cook, stirring constantly, until the garlic is sticky and just starting to turn light gold. Add the chili flakes and keep cooking for another 20 seconds or so. Immediately remove the pan from the heat and scrape the contents into a bowl. Allow to cool and then add the toasted sesame oil.

RAMEN TOPPINGS Ramen toppings can be anything you want: marinated meats, vegetables of any kind (either raw or precooked), tofu, mushrooms, green onions, fried onions, toasted sesame seeds, soft-boiled eggs, crispy roasted tofu, chili oil, hoisin sauce and more. Choose anywhere from three to eight toppings and be sure all toppings are sliced thinly so that they heat up quickly in the broth.

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Up to 1 ½ cups (375 ml) broth of your choice 50 to 100 g of fresh ramen noodles Water for cooking the noodles 3 to 8 toppings, prepared Large ceramic bowl, preheated Preheat your bowls. The easiest way is to keep them warm is in a low oven. Bring a large pot of water to a full boil.

Meanwhile, heat the ramen broth in a small pot. Have all the toppings prepared, sliced, precooked, as necessary.

As soon as the water boils, add the ramen noodles and stir to make sure they don’t stick. Boil the noodles for about two minutes, making sure to pull them from the water while they are still quite firm and bouncy. Strain the noodles well.

Place the noodles in the preheated bowls, quickly arrange the protein and vegetables of your choice all over the top of the noodles, and then pour in heated broth until it just covers the noodles and toppings. Drizzle or sprinkle on the “flavour toppings” (chili oil, sesame seeds and the like) and serve immediately.

Special thanks to ramen model Kai Schaddelee.

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Nomination: Best Interior — Commercial (The Collective)

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>> Goodison Construction transformed the chopped-up interior of this 1980s house into a design-forward open plan showcasing a sophisticated style aesthetic by Jenny Martin Design, natural flow, functionality and quality craftsmanship. This open plan and a neutral colour palette give centre stage to the gorgeous ocean views and key design features. Two-tone white and bleached oak millwork, architectural light fixtures, texture-play through richly veined tile and energy efficiency incorporated throughout, highlight careful attention to detail and bring this home into the modern day. goodisonconstruction.com

Tony Aindow, Principal

Nominations: Best Single Family Detached Spec Home Under 2,400 sq. ft. (Contemporary Craftsmen) Best Single Family Detached Spec Home 2,400 - 3,100 sq. ft. (Estrella) Best Single Family Detached Home Over $2,100,000 (Cedars) (Elements) Best Traditional Kitchen Over 300 sq. ft. (Elements) Best Contemporary Kitchen Under 200 sq. ft. (Estrella) Best Contemporary Kitchen Over 350 sq. ft. (Cedars) Best Contemporary Bathroom Under 140 sq. ft. (Estrella) Best Master Suite Under 560 sq. ft. (Elements) (Cedars) Best Traditional Kitchen Over 300 sq. ft. (Elements) Best Contemporary Kitchen Under 200 sq. ft. (Estrella) Best Contemporary Kitchen Over 350 sq. ft. (Cedars) Best Contemporary Bathroom Under 140 sq. ft. (Estrella) Best Master Suite Under 560 sq. ft. (Elements) (Cedars) Best Interior Residential 4,000 - 6,000 sq. ft. (Cedars) Best Interior Residential Over 6,000 sq. ft. (Elements) Best Custom Millwork 4,000 - 6,000 sq. ft. (Cedars) Best Custom Millwork Over 6,000 sq. ft. (Elements) Project of the Year Single Family (Cedars) (Elements)

>> Each job Mari O'Meara approaches is unique unto itself. Individual elements in every home are often commonplace and functional, but the selection of materials and addition of fine details change to suit the needs and tastes of every client. This is what O'Meara loves most about her field.

Every day is different, and she's constantly meeting new people with new ideas. She's always learning about new products, which she ultimately gets to share with others. marikushino.com Mari O'Meara, Principal Designer

MARI KUSHINO DESIGN

CARE AWARDS FINALISTS

JASON GOOD CUSTOM CABINETS Nominations: Best Contemporary Kitchen Under 200 sq. ft. (Cube) Best Contemporary Kitchen 251 - 350 sq. ft. (Swell) (Ocean View) Best Contemporary Kitchen Over 350 sq. ft. (Sanctuary) Best Contemporary Bathroom Over 150 sq. ft. (Swell) Best Master Suite Under 560 sq. ft. (Cedars) (Swell) (Sanctuary) Best Custom Millwork Over 6,000 sq. ft. (Swell) >> A massive, blueprint-matched, burled-walnut island with accents meant the search was on for the perfect log. Once discovered, the piece was the very first job run through Jason Good’s new custom veneer shop. Once complete and in place, the team set out to fulfill the homeowner’s request for some pretty sophisticated hardware components, including electronic-opening, touch-latch doors and drawers, along with custom, powder-coated fridge handles and grills. The demanding process may have tested the limits of what was possible, but it was well worth it for the job. jasongoodcabinets.com

Jason Good, Principal

CARE AWARDS FINALISTS

P. COSGRAVE CONSTRUCTION Nominations: Best Single Family Detached Home Over $2,100,000 (Gen 4) Best Contemporary Kitchen 251 - 350 sq. ft. (Gen 4) Best Master Suite Over 560 sq. ft. (Gen 4) Best Interior - Residential Over 6,000 sq. ft. (Gen 4) >> Through a tactical approach and careful planning, Gen 4 arose from expansive concrete hardscape and retaining walls that capture the building site’s natural grade, affording room for beautiful gardens throughout the property. The home’s spectacular window frontage maximizes views over Haro Strait, and its towering ceilings deliver an amazing openness to the space.

Linking it all together is an attractive Corten steel-clad elevator that offers residents breathtaking views as they’re whisked to the upper floors. cosgrave.ca

Paul Cosgrave, Principal

Nominations: Best Single Family Detached Home $1,800,000 - $2,100,000 (Notting Hill)

Best Traditional Kitchen

200 - 300 sq. ft. (Spindrift Residence)

Best Contemporary Kitchen 251 - 350 sq. ft. (Notting Hill)

Best Contemporary Kitchen Over 350 sq. ft. (Old West) Best Contemporary Bath Over 140 sq. ft. (Old West) Best Master Suite Over 560 sq. ft. (Notting Hill) Best Interior - Residential

4,000 - 6,000 sq. ft. (Notting Hill)

Best Custom Millwork 4,000 - 6,000 sq. ft. (Notting Hill) Best Custom Millwork Over 6,000 sq. ft.

(Spindrift Residence)

>> The Notting Hill home clients were looking for materials that were both practical and stylish.

They wanted a design that would not only be visually appealing for years to come, but would endure just as long. We used a combination of hand-scraped European oak and black matte materials to create a striking contrast that’s both dramatic and simplistic. The material is easy to clean and can stand up to a gauntlet of sticky fingers while maintaining its warm and dynamic look. southshorecabinetry.com

SOUTH SHORE CABINETRY

Robyn Sandsmark, Tara Bushby and Korey Sandsmark

Nominations: Best Single Family Detached Custom Home Over 2,500 sq. ft. (Comfort & Class) Best Single Family Detached Home

$1,000,000 - $1,400,000 (Roosevelt Estates)

Best New Home Design Under 4,000 sq. ft. (Comfort & Class) Best Traditional Kitchen 200 - 300 sq. ft. (Comfort & Class) Best traditional Kitchen Over 300 sq. ft. (Roosevelt Estates) Best Contemporary Kitchen 200 - 250 sq. ft. (Redefined) Best Traditional Bathroom (Roosevelt Estates) Best Contemporary Bathroom Under 140 sq. ft. (Fresh Air) Best Interior - Residential Under 2,500 sq. ft. (Redefined) Best Interior - Residential 4,000 - 6,000 sq. ft. (Roosevelt Estates) Best Custom Millwork 4,000 - 6,000 sq. ft. (Roosevelt Estates) Project of the Year - Single Family (Roosevelt Estates)

>> The emphasis on unpredictable is a common theme at Spaciz Design Company. On their latest project, Redefined, designers Tracey Lamoureux and Carley Petillion worked with homeowner Penny Tuson (co-owner of staging company Ruby and Jo) to mix traditional elements of an early 1940s home with splashes of bold colour, a twist on mid-century, and amenities that serve a modern family. The dynamic mural set against creative millwork and contemporary furniture creates a statement against the home's older charm. The blend of visual influences results in a living space that highlights comfort, originality and, of course, unpredictability. spaciz.com Carley Petillion, Tracey Lamoureux, Designers

SPACIZ DESIGN COMPANY

CARE AWARDS FINALISTS

NEW WEST DEVELOPMENT CORP. Nominations: Best Single Family Detached Custom Home Over 2,500 sq. ft. (Comfort & Class)

Best New Home Design Under 4,000 sq. ft. (Comfort & Class) Best Traditional Kitchen 200 to 300 sq. ft. (Comfort & Class) >> With a master bedroom on the ground floor and other convenient touches, Comfort & Class embodies the ideals of aging in place while taking in all that Bear Mountain has to offer. Being surrounded by nature and trails, and with close access to the Westin Resort, restaurants and sports facilities means an active and exciting retirement is merely a few steps outside the front door. newwestdev.com

Todd Halaburda, Principal

Nominations: Best Single Family Detached Custom Home Under 2,500 sq. ft. (The OB) Best Single Family Detached Home $1,000,000 - $1,400,000 (Ocean View) Best Single Family Detached Home Over $2,100,000 (Cedars) (Elements) Best Outdoor Space Over $300,000 (Backyard Retreat) Best New Home Design Over 4,000 sq. ft. (Elements) Best Residential Renovation or Restoration

Under $500,000 (Small Guests)

Best Residential Renovation or Restoration Over $500,000 (In The Zone) Best Contemporary Kitchen 251-350 sq. ft. (Ocean View) Best Master Suite Under 560 sq. ft. (Ocean View) Home Design - Concept Under 6,000 sq. ft. (Incognito) Project of the Year - Single Family (Cedars) (Elements)

>> The size and scale of this house and its rugged waterfront setting are truly impressive. Oversized windows and doors allow for maximum views, the cast-in-place concrete fireplace is a feat in itself, and a third garage bay is sculpted into a rocky outcrop. The site layout shapes the house around the coastal bluff, leaving the large rock outcroppings intact and featured in the design of the house and its landscaping. ryanhoytdesigns.com Ryan Hoyt, Principal

RYAN HOYT DESIGNS INC.

CARE AWARDS FINALISTS

STEP ONE DESIGN Nominations: Best Single Family Detached Spec Home Over 3,100 sq. ft. (Hampton Meadows)

Best Single Family Detached Home $1,400,000 - $1,800,000 (Palatial) Best Single Family Detached Home $1,800,000 - $2,100,000 (Notting Hill) Best New Home design Over 4,000 sq. ft. (Notting Hill) Best Master Suite Over 560 sq. ft. (Notting Hill) Best Interior - Residential 4,000 - 6,000 sq. ft. (Notting Hill) Home Design - Concept Over 6,000 sq. ft. (Coastal Solace)

>> Notting Hill was designed to be impressive from all angles because the home’s site sides are either facing the street or adjacent to a golf path and putting green. As one moves around the home, the architecture reveals itself in intricate structural designs such as large cantilevers, soaring vaults and a hidden garage. The uniquely varied exterior transfers directly to the home’s interior spaces. Accomplishing these features on a complex site without compromising the home’s breathtaking views proved an exciting challenge. steponedesign.ca

Photo credit: Vince Klassen Photographic

Mike Dunsmuir, Co-Owner Lisa Dunsmuir, Co-Owner

Nominations: Best Single Family Detached Spec Home Under 2,400 sq. ft. (Haven)

Best Single Family Detached Spec Home Over 3,100 sq. ft. (South Bay)

Best Single Family Detached Home $1,400,000 - $1,800,000 (Lookout)

Best Single Family Detached Custom Home

Over 2,500 sq. ft. (Seaside)

Best Entry Level Market Home (Vista)

>> In this home, Lookout, Patriot Homes built an amazing outdoor space that includes a pond, custom fire table and outdoor kitchen. Inside, there are amazing finishes, including an indoor waterfall, custom showers, 70-inch fireplace, wine room and home theatre. The project required persevering through inclement weather and challenging landscape obstacles, involving retaining walls, pump systems with back-up power and thoughtful landscaping touches throughout the property. patriothomes.ca

Aman Gill, Principal

PATRIOT HOMES

CARE AWARDS FINALISTS

KIMBERLY WILLIAMS INTERIORS Nominations: Best Single Family Detached Home Over $2,100,000 (Spindrift Residence) Best Traditional Kitchen 200-300 sq. ft. (Spindrift Residence) Best Master Suite Under 560 sq. ft. (Spindrift Residence) Best Interior Residential Over 6,000 sq. ft. (Spindrift Residence) Best Custom Millwork Over 6,000 sq. ft. (Spindrift Residence) Best Interior - Commercial (Chinatown Heritage) (The Airstream) Project of the Year - Single Family (Spindrift Residence)

>> Adriana and Elaine believe a home should represent a family's journey in a space that's both functional and timelessly beautiful. The challenge at the Spindrift Residence was to create an interior that allowed for individuality within a unified palette. It was important to create a sense of cohesiveness in the palette and finishes throughout the home. Equally important was the desire to inject playfulness and some unique features to make each room part of the home's larger story. kimberlywilliams.ca Elaine Martel, Adriana Wootton, Owners

CARE AWARDS FINALISTS

THOMAS PHILIPS WOODWORKING LTD. Nominations: Best Traditional Kitchen Under 200 sq. ft. (Eden) Best Traditional Kitchen 200 - 300 sq. ft. (Eleanor) (Marcia) Best Traditional Kitchen Over 300 sq. ft.

(Palatial) (Georgian Oaks) ( Water’s Way)

Best Traditional Bathroom (Palatial) (Georgian Oaks) Best Custom Millwork 6,000 sq. ft. (Georgian Oaks)

>> Creating a sense of warmth and intimacy in a large, wide-open space may not be easy, but it's certainly not impossible. Custom woodworking that includes custom-applied moulding doors, white-oak hardwood floors, a custom range hood with decorative corbels, leaded-glass cabinets as well as ornate posts and a decorative kick island tie together seamlessly with the extensive mouldings and crown found throughout the Georgian Oaks property. thomasphilipswoodworking.com

Eric Gummer, Principal Emily Scott, Designer

Nominations: Best Residential Renovation or Restoration Under $500,000 (Enchanting)

>> Enchanting represents the transformation of a hokey, post-war home with a mismatched owner-built addition into a showcase of high design and architectural inspiration.

Whereas the house’s previous incarnation involved awkward access, sloping floors and a jarring convex roof, the new residence embodies a seamless look with a consistent design that exceeds today’s standards. Expanded living space along with upgraded heating and insulation brings the home into the modern era without compromising the site’s intimate garden setting and breathtaking views across the ocean towards Mount Baker. shanemurraycarpentry.com

Shane Murray,

Principal

SHANE MURRAY CONTRACTING LTD.

CARE AWARDS FINALISTS

KEITH BAKER DESIGN INC. Nominations: Best Single Family Detached Home Over $2,100,000 (Gen 4) Best New Home Design Over 4,000 sq. ft. (Gen 4) Best Contemporary Kitchen 251 - 350 sq. ft. (Gen 4) Best Master Suite Over 560 sq. ft. (Gen 4) Best Interior - Residential Over 6,000 sq. ft. (Gen 4) >> The biggest challenge while designing Gen 4 was to create a completely new home by using aspects of an existing house, sited in a non-conforming position. The former home's placement was the most advantageous location for the best views but, if it was torn it down, a new house would have been much lower on the property, compromising those beautiful panoramic views. We worked through a complicated permitting process to preserve enough of the existing house and created an uncompromised design solution that matched the client's aesthetic desires and functional needs. keithbakerdesign.com

Keith Baker,

Principal Designer

Nominations: Best Single Family Detached Home $1,000,000 - $1,400,000 (Ocean View)

Best Outdoor Space

Over $300,000 (Backyard Retreat)

Best Residential Renovation or Restoration Under $500,000 (Small Guests)

Best Contemporary Kitchen 251 - 350 sq. ft. (Ocean View)

Best Master Suite Under 560 sq. ft. (Ocean View) Best Website (Philco Re-Branding) >> Step through the door of what appears from the street to be an attractive rancher, and you’ll find a three-storey home built into a rocky cliff, offering spectacular views of the Olympic Peninsula. Though the views from the suspended and timber deck are breathtaking, delicate finishes such as stainless steel light handrails, custom walnut cabinetry, graceful light fixtures and a flowing waterfall-themed tile work make the Ocean View home an awe-inspiring site in itself. philcobuilt.com

Glenn Hamilton, Philip Wilson,

Owners

PHILCO CONSTRUCTION LTD.

Nomination: Best Single Family Detached Home

$1,000,000 - $1,400,000 (Old West) (Roosevelt Estates)

Best Outdoor Space Under $300,000 (Old West) Best Outdoor Space Over $300,000 (Roosevelt Estates) Best Residential Renovation or Restoration Over $500,000 (Sunset Hills) Best Traditional Kitchen Over 300 sq. ft. (Roosevelt Estates) Best Contemporary Kitchen Over 350 sq. ft. ((Old West) Best Traditional Bathroom (Roosevelt Estates) Best Contemporary Bathroom Over 140 sq. ft. (Old West) Best Interior - Residential 2,500 - 4,000 sq. ft. (Sunset Hills) Best Interior - Residential 4,000 - 6,000 sq. ft. (Old West) (Roosevelt Estates) Best Custom Millwork Under 4,000 sq. ft. (Sunset Hills) Best Custom Millwork 4,000 - 6,000 sq. ft. (Old West) (Roosevelt Estates) Project of the Year - Single Family (Old West) (Roosevelt Estates)

>> Outdoor living at Roosevelt Estate is second to none. It has a beautiful outdoor kitchen that watches over the pool, surrounding yard and sport court. It’s the ultimate in outdoor entertaining.

Making it all happen on this rocky site required almost two months of blasting and prep work, but the end result was worth the work as it gave the owners an amazing homesite and grounds. gtmann.com Graeme Mann, Principal

GT MANN CONTRACTING LTD.

CARE AWARDS FINALISTS

CARLY SANDERSON INTERIORS Nominations: Best Single Family Detached Spec Home 2,400 - 3,100 sq. ft. (The Sadie) (The Sophie)

Best Single Family Detached Spec Home Over 3,100 sq. ft. (The Parker) Best Subdivision (Latoria Rise Phase 2) Best Traditional Kitchen 200 - 300 sq. ft. (Eleanor)

>> Mixed finishes and eye-catching surfaces has Eleanor cooking with style in the kitchen. The home features an integrated butcher block in the countertop, a smooth quartz backsplash over the cooktop for easy cleaning, and textured chevron tile for visual interest. Extending the area to fulfill the owner’s dreams of having a chef-style kitchen required careful planning, attention to detail and clever design to keep everything within budget and in line with tight setback requirements. csandersoninteriors.com

Carly Sanderson, Principal

TRAVELFAR

HIGH IN

NEW YORK Rooftop barhopping, swanky hotels and elevated experiences make for an epic stay New York City

BY SUSAN LUNDY

The rooftop bar at Pier 17 in the Seaport District of Manhattan.

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in

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07/19/19

Experience the flavours at each of our unique restaurants located in the heart of Victoria.

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F the view from our room at 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge is “breathtaking”— and it is — the panorama from the hotel’s rooftop bar is heart-stopping.

Perched on the waterfront in Brooklyn, the “nature-inspired” hotel sits cushioned between views of the Brooklyn Bridge — close enough to see a stream of headlights traversing the massive concrete and steel-wire structure — and the face of Lower Manhattan. From the rooftop you can see it all: the iconic rise of the cityscape, the line of bridges on the East River and even the Statue of Liberty and Staten Island in the distance.

Sipping cocktails and soaking in the panorama, we had a great idea: why not augment our week-long New York City stay finding ways to “get high” in this spectacular city, where, no matter how many times you visit, there is always more to do.

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ROCKEFELLER AND EMPIRE STATE BUILDINGS: Iconic views that every visitor to Manhattan has to see at least once. We each picked up a CityPASS, which at $184 CAD provides entrance to six of nine possible NYC attractions, ranging from Circle Line Sightseeing Cruise to the 9/11 Memorial Museum. You can order it online direct to your phone; it gives expedited entry at several of the attractions; and it’s valid for nine days after the first day of use. We did the Top of the Rock Observation Deck by day and the Empire State Building by night. This may be the highest you’ll get in Manhattan, but it is by no means the only way to get high!

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Everything’s better with cake!

View from atop of The Vessel in Hudson Yards.

SUMMIT ROCK Every trip to Manhattan needs a visit to Central Park with its tranquil pathways that meander under a canopy of trees, alongside gardens, around ponds and over stone bridges. It’s a soothing contrast to the horn-honking hubbub outside the park.

But could we get high in Central Park? As it turns out, Summit Rock — at a height of 141.8 feet — is the highest natural elevation in the park. Located at Central Park West and 83rd Street, Summit Rock was the site of Seneca Village in the 19th century. Apparently “visitors often climb to the top of Summit Rock, where they can view the city below and even catch a glimpse of New Jersey.” It took a bit of navigating to find the rock and the view was slightly underwhelming on that day, but the few hours we spent in the park definitely elevated our experience.

THE VESSEL

Gluten Free options available cakesetc.ca • 250-360-2390 2821 Quesnel St., Victoria, BC 118

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Rising like a giant beehive in NYC’s newest district, Hudson Yards, this interactive, glass and steel sculpture is a whole lot of fun to do — especially if you’re into working off all those New York pretzels. The Vessel consists of 154 flights of stairs and 80 landings that visitors can climb (or bypass via elevator) to the top. At each landing, there’s the option of turning left or right, but if you choose the same direction each time, you’ll circle the entire 150-foot-tall structure, and get a 360-degree view as you ascend. Entrance is free via timed-entry tickets.

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The Grand Salon at Baccarat Hotel New York.

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And then the food arrived on tiered platters: three layers each of canapés and petit fours presented as bite-size works of art.

HIGH TEA Enter Baccarat Hotel New York directly across from the Museum of Modern Art, take an elevator up to the Grand Salon and prepare to pick your jaw up off the floor.

Baccarat Hotel, part of the famous crystal brand in France, features some 15,000 iridescent crystal pieces throughout the 50-storey structure, which includes guests rooms and residences, and a total of 17 Baccarat crystal chandeliers throughout the first and second floors, which can be accessed by the public.

Crystals gleamed and glimmered around us in the Grand Salon as we partook in a “unique immersion in the fine art of afternoon tea.” Living high in New York? High Tea at the

Baccarat is not to be missed. Our experience included a chat with tea sommelier Gabrielle Jammal, whose astounding knowledge was both enlightening and confounding — how do we choose from the vast selection of tea offerings? Ultimately, we ordered a la Tombee du Jour (from Quebec) and Rose Scented Evergreen (Taiwan) as well as a glass each of Ruinart Rosé. We sipped, enjoyed the view over the street below and basked in the sumptuousness of the room.

And then the food arrived on tiered platters: three layers each of canapés and petit fours presented as bite-size works of art. “There’s no way I can eat all this,” I said of my gluten-free, dairy-free bounty. And then I did.

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The view from Manhattan’s High Line.

The High Line is park built on an elevated rail structure.

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HIGH LINE Another must-do in New York, the High Line is a public park built on a 1.45-mile-long elevated rail structure above the streets on Manhattan’s West Side. There are several access points to the High Line; we entered right beside The Vessel and walked to the Chelsea Market. The walkway winds through gardens, public seating areas, performance spaces and the back sides of residential and commercial buildings. There are numerous places to stop and eat along the way, and we sipped and savoured at Hearth on the High Line, an open-air wine bar and cafe with impressive views of the Hudson River and skyline.

PIER 17 Pier 17 is located in NYC’s founding neighbourhood, the recently revitalized Seaport District, which was devastated by Hurricane Sandy in 2012, but now rises in all its glory on the East River in Lower Manhattan. The historic cobblestones of the Seaport have been transformed into 450,000 square feet of culinary, fashion, entertainment and cultural experiences, including the recently re-launched Pier 17.

Home to the Seaport Museum and the city’s largest concentration of restored maritime buildings, Pier 17 is being hailed as NYC’s new cultural hub. But can you get high? Yes! The Rooftop at Pier 17, located waterside with panoramic views, is a 1.5-acre space atop the pier. It offers a Summer Concert Series that features performances by A-list artists and likely appears from space as a massive throng of humanity gyrating amid bursts of colour. We didn’t get to an event but walked around the area and confirmed the rooftop would certainly elevate the heart rate.

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Rooftop bar at Pier 17.

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View of Brooklyn Bridge from a room at 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge.

LIVING HIGH:

THE HOTELS We stayed in three different neighbourhoods and, as part of our effort to “live high” in NYC, toured several rooftop bars (such an onerous task!), some of which are recommended below.

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If you want to treat yourself to an extraordinary hotel experience in NYC, this is the place to do it. I’ve gasped at the splendour of a hotel room before, but nothing prepared me for this king suite with its stunning proximity to the Brooklyn Bridge as viewed through floor-to-ceiling windows. The room featured top-of-theline technology all controlled from an iPad, living green elements and numerous eco-friendly details.

The “nature-inspired” and green theme runs through the entire 10-storey, 195-room hotel, topped by a soaring living wall in the lobby-lounge area and guest access to a Tesla premium electric vehicle.

One of two 1 Hotels in NYC, 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge was built from the ground up according to LEED standards and designed using 54 per cent

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RBC Dominion Securities Inc.* and Royal Bank of Canada are separate corporate entities which are affiliated. *Member-Canadian Investor Protection Fund. RBC Dominion Securities Inc. is a member company of RBC Wealth Management, a business segment of Royal Bank of Canada. ® / ™ Trademark(s) of Royal Bank of Canada. Used under licence. ©2019 RBC Dominion Securities Inc. All rights reserved. 19_90851_V7J_002

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regional and reclaimed materials, including original heart-pine beams from Brooklyn’s old Domino Sugar Factory, walnut from the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens, and pine flooring from the Old Crow Distillery in Kentucky. Every detail has a story, including an art piece that uses shingles reclaimed from Hurricane Sandy. The hotel is leading the charge of gentrification in the area, which has beautiful cobblestone streets and repurposed brick buildings, waterfront parks and easy connections to both Manhattan and Brooklyn. The hotel also has a spa, restaurant and numerous other amenities.

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Street. There is a lot to love about the Andaz — especially if you want to spread out in your room or invite a few people back for a nightcap — but you simply can’t beat the location.

While the area was completely devastated by Hurricane Sandy, it has re-risen alongside the neighbouring Seaport District and is within walking distance of numerous NYC attractions, as well as subway stops that will get you anywhere in Manhattan.

The hotel lobby — once entirely submerged in water — is now spacious and welcoming, featuring a 24-hour coffee and snacks bar and a daily complimentary wine hour. At 450 square feet, our sun-filled king deluxe room had an oversized work station, large soaking tub next to a walk-in rain shower, 12-foot ceilings, hardwood floors and massive windows. The smallest rooms at the hotel are 345 square feet, while the Buttonwood Suite is a full 1,465 square feet!

The hotel is also pet friendly, and has a restaurant, fitness centre and licensed outdoor patio.

GET HIGH: We love to walk in New York, so our rooftop bar-hopping occurred all over Lower Manhattan.

But Jimmy at the James in SoHo stole the show with its 360-degree views of the Manhattan skyline.

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POD HOTEL BROOKLYN For an entirely different experience, the Pod Hotel Brooklyn offers 249 rooms that are chic, simple, spacious, cosy and functional. We’ve stayed here twice, partially due to the proximity of our two kids who live nearby, the relative low-cost (rooms range from $200 to $300 US a night) and the superb location in Williamsburg right next to the bridge, and cool restaurants, bars and coffee shops.

The hotel’s largest rooms are Pod Suites at 300 square feet, but our 110-square-foot Queen Pod met our needs with a super comfy bed, glass-enclosed bathroom and even a work desk, chair and flat-screen TV. Based on the concept that many hotels offer unnecessary amenities, the Pod Hotels (there are four in New York) offer “stripped down” sleeping rooms alongside funky and spacious public areas, such as work stations, courtyards and a restaurant.

GET HIGH: While the Pod Hotel Brooklyn has its own, foliage-framed rooftop patio and bar, we decided to line up for a spot at Westlight at the William Vale Hotel, where a dedicated elevator rises 22 floors to the top of the area’s tallest skyscraper. The glass-encased bar and wrap-around terrace overlooks Brooklyn, Queens and Manhattan.

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TRAVELNEAR

SPIRITS WEST

of the

“Field to flask” at Vancouver Island’s Shelter Point Distillery

BY SUSAN LUNDY | P H OTO S C O U R T E S Y SHELTER POINT DISTILLERY

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Distiller James Marinus.

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TANDING in a converted cattle barn with 2,000 barrels of aging whisky lining the walls as far as the eye can see, I’m enjoying the thick, heady scent as I undertake some mental math. Despite the effects of the delicious fumes known to whisky lovers as the “angel’s share,” I calculate we’re surrounded by the makings of more than half a million bottles of Shelter Point Distillery spirits.

We are mid-point in a tour of this fast-growing Vancouver Island distillery, which barrelled its first whisky in 2011 and now produces more than 125,000 litres of spirits — whisky, gin, vodka and liqueur — per year.

To get to the barrel room, our small group — including me, my husband, another couple and our guide, Shelter Point general manager Jacob Wiebe — climbed into a quad and bounced around the distillery’s beautiful 380 acres of oceanfront land.

Located on the eastern side of Vancouver Island just south of Campbell River, the property is criss-crossed by streams, the Oyster River, wetlands and, of course, the golden fields of barley and wheat that rippled gently in the wind as we motored by.

Jacob is informative and funny. Being married to one of Shelter Point owner Patrick Evans’ four daughters gives him license to gently poke fun at his father-in-law. The camaraderie among staff at this tight-knit, family-based business is obvious.

“You’ll be successful if you work half a day every day,” Jacob says, quoting Patrick’s father, who also once worked this land.

“Doesn’t matter if it’s the first 12 hours or the second 12 hours.”

Jacob laughs and adds, “That’s Patrick’s motto, too.”

Shelter Point’s five full-time staffers have all learned to multitask. This includes the two distillers, who now drive tractors and bang nails in addition to crafting fine spirits. Today, they’re awaiting the delivery of 288 Kentucky bourbon barrels. When the shipment arrives, everyone will drop everything to help in the strength-taxing process of moving barrels from truck to storage.

Patrick was raised a dairy farmer. But with the industry in decline — and, besides, his daughters weren’t fond of it — he looked to establish value-added agriculture on his land. Creating Shelter Point Distillery was more about capitalizing on an

opportunity than being a whisky aficionado.

“I am a beer drinker,“ Patrick laughs, patting his stomach as we chat with him prior to our tour. “I asked myself, ‘How do you value agriculture to the highest degree?’ Well, one acre of land produces 800 litres of alcohol, or 2,700 bottles of whisky.”

What must have been seen as a leap of faith in 2011 — after all, it took five years to produce the first bottle of whisky — is paying off today. Shelter Point Distillery is one of the largest producers of single malt whisky in Canada, and the accolades are rolling in, with two gold medal wins recently announced at the 2019 World Whisky Masters. Plans are afoot to get even bigger by adding another still and eventually developing a true “field-toflask” operation with on-site malting.

Currently, Shelter Point out-sources malting to a plant in Armstrong. But within the next year or two, Patrick hopes to be malting here, meaning every aspect of production — from seed to spirit — will occur on this land. And with the malting process in place, the business can add smoked whisky to its repertoire, incorporating true west coast flavours like maple or kelp.

“There are different perspectives on what defines the flavour of the whisky,” Patrick says. For him, as a farmer, it’s all about the soil. But there are many other factors, including the distilling process, the type of barrel used and — like grapes in wine — the variety and quality of the grain.

“When [the alcohol] goes into the barrels, it’s all exactly the same,” Patrick points out. “But it comes out different from each barrel. Even the barrel's wood and the history of the tree will affect the taste.”

Back in the barrel room, where the fumes are definitely making us all a little giddy, I suddenly understand the importance of water in the world of whisky. Once the barrelled whisky has aged, water is added to cut back the percentage of alcohol (unless the whisky is being bottled at cask-strength).

Water at Shelter Point bubbles up from a mountain-fed aquifer, so it’s hard to imagine a more pure-tasting addition to the spirits.

At this thought, I’m ready to hit the tasting room, but the men are deep in conversation about Shelter Point cask purchases. At around $6,000 each, plus taxes and bottling costs, and a two- to

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Distiller James Marinus and owner Patrick Evans.

three-year wait, the potential might not be immediately clear.

However — despite the headiness of the angel’s share — I’m able to calculate that the ultimate yield of more than 250 bottles per barrel puts the price point way below retail value. My husband plans to present the concept to his whisky club.

Next, our group heads to the place where it all happens.

Stepping into the distillery with its soaring, timber-trussed roof, gleaming, six-metre-high copper stills and futuristic-looking columns is like walking into a piece of art or a sci-fi movie set. The entire Shelter Point building is gorgeous — from the flowered entranceway to the cushiony, aged-leather armchairs in the lounge — but this room is truly spectacular.

It’s here we meet distiller Leon Webb who, with his gentle Scottish brogue, leads us through the distilling process.

Dissatisfied with his previous occupation as an investment banker, and realizing that his prized Scotch collection brought him immense joy, he studied to become a master distiller. My husband is over the moon to learn that Leon created Victoria’s famously purple Empress 1908 gin.

“He’s like a rock star,” Bruce enthuses, asking me to photograph the two of them together.

The distilling process is fascinating, and we wander among the stills, poking our heads into them and inhaling the wonderful scents. Public tours of this part of the operation are free for the taking and I definitely encourage it. But for us — finally! — it’s time to taste the fruits of all this labour (or more accurately, the “spirits of all this distilling.”)

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Whisky and I have a bit of a troubled past. It was once a favourite of mine; I even organized whisky evenings for our friends. But after a night of overindulging on cask-strength brew, it’s been tricky to get our relationship back on track.

However, after tasting samples from two bottles of Shelter Point whisky, I’m ready for a reconciliation. This whisky is among the best I’ve sampled. And since it’s a true west coast single malt, I’ll describe it as “smooth as the silky trunk of an Arbutus tree or the feather of an eagle.” We quickly pick up two bottles for purchase.

Then comes the vodka and gin. Light and clean with a hint of caramel, this vodka is too good to mix with tonic. It’s made for sipping. The gin is another surprise (although it was developed by a gin rock star). Rich with juniper, citrus and floral flavours, it rivals and surpasses any of the gins I’ve sampled in the past — and that’s quite a few. Bottles of vodka and gin are added to our bag. Finally, we savour the Barrel of Sunshine Liqueur, which comes with a story.

“My daughter didn’t like the taste of the whisky,” says Patrick, “so we told her to go and create something she did like.”

The resulting liqueur has been the distillery’s bestseller (although this summer sales were surpassed by the gin). Basking in its heavenly blend of sweet, citrus, honey warmth, we understand why. We purchase a bottle of Sunshine as well.

As we hit the Old Island Highway for the scenic drive back down island, I’m thrilled to have had the experience, collected the bag-full of bottles happily clinking in the backseat, and enjoyed a little of the angel’s share.

“Since it’s a true west coast single malt, I’ll describe it as “smooth as the silky trunk of an Arbutus tree or the feather of an eagle.”

THE ABCs OF

SHELTER POINT SPIRITS

ABV:

Alcohol by volume is the percentage of alcohol in a bottle, sometimes referred to as proof. The ABV of most Shelter Point spirits is 40 per cent, but it ranges from 30 per cent for the Barrel of Sunshine Liqueur to 50 per cent or higher for some lots of whisky.

BARREL AGEING:

To qualify as a whisky, a spirit must age at least five years in a cask, three of which must occur in charred oak casks. Shelter Point uses a variety of different barrels or casks, including Kentucky bourbon barrels and various types of wine casks, many from Quails' Gate winery in Kelowna.

CASK STRENGTH: In many cases, distillers

decide if a whisky from a certain cask can be consumed as is, or if water should be added to reduce the ABV. If a whisky is “cask strength,” it has been bottled exactly as it was in the cask, ranging from 46 to 60 per cent alcohol.

COPPER POT STILLS:

For any type of distilling, a pot or still is used to extract the spirit from the grain mash. Shelter Point uses two beautiful hand-crafted stills ordered specially from one of the oldest still manufacturers in the world: Forsyth of Scotland. Why copper? Because it is an excellent conductor, spreading the heat evenly in the distilling process.

E OR NO E?:

Whisky is sometimes spelled whiskey. There is no definitive answer to the question “e or no e?” but for the most part, Irish and American whiskey is spelled with an “e,” while whisky made in Canada, India and Japan conforms to the Scottish tradition of having no “e.”

PURCHASING A CASK:

Shelter Point Distillery Warehouseman David Marshall in the barrel room.

The price of acquiring a cask at Shelter Point may seem daunting — averaging about $6,000 plus taxes and bottling — but there are actually many benefits to such an investment.

While the cask ages (for an additional two to three years), those who have invested in it can organize tastings of the spirit directly from their own barrel in Shelter Point’s barrel room. Customized bottling is another unique opportunity.

But best of all is the end price per bottle (minimum of 250 bottles per cask), which is significantly below retail pricing.

PHOTO BY LIA CROWE

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FRONT ROW

BY ROBERT MOYES

A COLLECTION OF ALL THINGS ARTSY, FUN AND SPECTACULAR HAPPENING IN VICTORIA THIS OCTOBER AND NOVEMBER. TAKE IN THE NOVELTY OF A “WHYDUNIT” THRILLER AT LANGHAM COURT, SAVOUR A RARELY PERFORMED TRIO OF ONE-ACT OPERAS BY PUCCINI, OR TAKE IN CANADIAN MUSICAL ICON BRUCE COCKBURN.

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2019-08-09

PHOTO BY DANIEL KEEBLER

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Bruce Cockburn.

THE RETURN OF A MUSICAL ICON! NOVEMBER 8 BRUCE COCKBURN, GUITAR STAR

F

OREVER associated with thoughtful hits like Wondering Where The Lions Are, Bruce Cockburn is a singer-songwriter whose technical brilliance on guitar is often under-acknowledged. Four years ago he released Speechless, a collection of instrumental versions of 15 of his older songs that showcased his phenomenal prowess as a six-stringer.

Big sales and a Canadian Folk Music Award were the result, so an instrumental sequel was inevitable. The equally virtuosic follow-up, Crowing Ignites, was just released in September and is being followed by a 30-date North American tour that includes a stop at the Royal Theatre.

“The show will be a balance between playing enough familiar stuff but also pointing the audience in the direction of the new album,” says Cockburn on the phone from his home in San Francisco. “I don’t know the song list for sure, but expect to hear Lions and Lovers in a Dangerous Time.” Although he will perform a few solo pieces, the Canadian icon is touring with his cousin, John Aaron Cockburn, a frequent collaborator.

“John’s a guitarist, but he also plays accordion and other instruments,” Cockburn explains. “He was on my last album, Bone on Bone, and we toured together all last year.”

Unlike with Speechless, Crowing is all-new material that emerged as Cockburn had fun exploring melodic ideas on his acoustic guitar. The result, a flowing array of musical moods ranging from jazzy and Celtic to elegant finger picking and soulful blues, will surely earn Cockburn even more raves and maybe an award or two.

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Performing at the Royal Theatre. For tickets, contact RMTS. boulevardmagazines.com |

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Pacific Opera Victoria has had some impressive coups over the years but they may be outdoing themselves with their presentation of Puccini’s Il Trittico (The Triptych), comprising three separate one-act operas that will finally get its professional O C TO B E R / N OV E M B E R 2 0 1 9

Scene from Suor Angelica in Il Trittico.

Canadian debut.

“This has been on my mind for quite a while,” says POV artistic director Timothy Vernon. “It’s Puccini’s last completed work and it was meant to be seen in one evening.”

Originally premiered in 1918, Trittico shows Puccini as a versatile master of tragedy, lyricism and comedy. The opening opera, Il tabarro (The Cloak), is a violent thriller about infidelity and murder aboard a barge on the Seine. The mood shifts to delicacy and sweetness in Suor Angelica (Sister Angelica), a tale of loss, suicide and forgiveness set in a boulevardmagazines.com |

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convent. The evening ends in raucous hilarity with the well-known Gianni Schicchi, and tells a riotous tale of dishonest heirs in Florence undone by their own foolish greed.

With over 40 named roles, Trittico is demanding — and expensive — to cast.

Then there’s the need for a flexible set able to accommodate three very different operas, as well as an extra week of rehearsal time. But with those challenges comes the reward of presenting a compelling operatic rarity.

“Puccini writes beautifully for the voice, plus he was a meticulous master orchestrator,” notes Vernon. “For the people who love Puccini, here’s a chance to go beyond his big hits like Bohème and Butterfly,” he adds. “This is an immense theatrical gift.”

Appearing at the Royal Theatre. For tickets, visit rmts.bc.ca or call the box office at 250-386-6121.

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250-381-2265 www.naivictoria.ca

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— The Debaters is a huge hit for CBC Radio. The format involves two razor-witted comics debating topics that are usually silly but sometimes flirt with serious issues such as immigration. The often-absurd arguments have enough realism to be compelling, and the verbal slugfest is recorded in front of a raucously appreciative live audience. But when The Debaters: Live on Tour rolls into town this November, the format will be quite different.

According to longtime host Steve Patterson, this tour won’t be recorded for the CBC, and that allows for an exciting mix of stand-up comedy and debate.

“DeAnne Smith and Graham Chittenden are both brilliant comics with international careers and the audience gets to hear them as comedians first, before the debating starts,” explains Patterson. “It will be a full night of comedy, with two sets of stand-up and two debates.”

And Patterson, an award-winning comedy headliner himself, will also display his elegantly crafted wit in the stand-up spotlight.

Although parts of the debates are scripted, there is a lot of improvisation and Patterson has to be fast on his feet to be an effective moderator.

“When they heckle each other in the bare-knuckle round . . . that’s my favourite part of the show,” he grins. “And having two comics working off of each other like that, the energy is unique,” Patterson adds. “This is live comedy art created right in front of your eyes.”

For tickets, see RMTS.

KUDLUAJUK ASHOONA

EXHIBITION OF INUIT ARTIST AT MADRONA GALLERY OCTOBER 26 TO NOVEMBER 9 INUIT ART INFUSED WITH NOSTALGIA It’s unusual for a woman in her early 60s to be called an emerging artist, but such is the case with Kudluajuk Ashoona, whose warm and intimate drawings depict leisure activities, outings and family life in Cape Dorset.

“She doesn’t yet have much of an exhibition history, but the big collectors are already very interested in her work,” says Madrona Gallery owner Michael Warren, the leading dealer of Inuit art in Victoria.

Warren has previously included Ashoona’s coloured-pencil drawings in a few group shows, but this October he is mounting a solo show of her work. It’s a first for his gallery and likely Ashoona’s first solo show ever.

With subject matter inspired by a collection of her own photographs dating from the 1970s and ‘80s, Ashoona’s drawings are very literal. Her work provides a window into a side of Inuit life often not seen, ranging from family picnics to depictions of two people playing electric guitars or a young kid proudly wearing a Toronto Maple Leafs jersey.

“Her drawings are joyful and light in mood,” Warren says.

“We usually see more challenging narratives of life in the North.”

Notwithstanding the nostalgia her drawings evoke, she also plays with perspective and introduces patterns into the work: stylistic elements that add unexpected complexity. And with prices quite low — in the $600 to $2,000 range — Warren

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inspiration lives here

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COURTENAY • NANAIMO • VICTORIA

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expects all 30 drawings to sell out.

“I don’t own any of her pieces yet but I’m definitely getting one at the show,” he chuckles.

Showing at 606 View Street. For information, see Madrona Gallery: madronagallery.com.

ROPE

THRILLER AT LANGHAM COURT NOVEMBER 6-23 THE THRILL OF THE KILL Many people have heard of the notorious killers Leopold and Loeb, two morally deranged students who tried to prove their Nietzsche-like superiority by committing what they imagined would be the perfect murder, in 1924. That inspired English playwright Patrick Hamilton, whose Rope is an intellectually ambitious thriller about two college kids who kill a fellow student, stash his body in a large chest in the middle of their apartment, then host a party where the chest becomes a macabre buffet serving up food for their guests . . . some of whom become suspicious.

If this scenario rings a bell you’ve likely seen Alfred Hitchcock’s psychologically intense 1948 film version, which updated and Americanized the 1920s play. And it’s the film that has mostly inspired Langham Court veteran Alan Penty, who rewrote Rope to eliminate its old-fashioned language, as a prelude to directing this intriguing shocker.

According to Penty, the script is clever in how the audience is soon made aware of the ideas of the two killers.

“Their twisted sense of morality makes them think they are entitled to commit murder, and the suspense increases as you keep waiting for them to make a mistake,” says Penty.

Over the decades, “murder most foul” has regularly been on offer at Langham Court: entertaining and ingenious yet ultimately forgettable genre mysteries by the likes of Agatha Christie and Frederick Knott. But rather than a regular whodunit this is a whydunit, and there are some interesting philosophical questions tucked in alongside the tightly sprung plot.

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For tickets, see langhamtheatre.ca or call 250-384-2142.

MONICA REEKIE PHOTO EXHIBIT

ART SHOW AT THE COAST COLLECTIVE ART GALLERY NOVEMBER 6-17 ANIMAL LOVE Monica Reekie was a nurse for 21 years before establishing herself as a professional artist just over a decade ago. Working almost exclusively with photography, Reekie initially shot everything from architecture to automobiles.

But a revelatory trip to the Galapagos Islands five years ago inspired her to focus on endangered species.

Over 60 of her evocative images are displayed in Effecting A Connection.

“I’m trying to spark a strong feeling . . . to get people to fall in love with the animal in the picture,” says the award-winning photographer, whose portraits range from red-footed boobies to cheetahs, lions and reindeer. boulevardmagazines.com |

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Her passion as well as her photography have gotten her noticed: renowned wildlife artist Robert Bateman has become a mentor, and she also now helps escort elite tours to various conservancy areas in Africa.

“I’m drawn to endangered species and endangered spaces,” adds Reekie. “It’s all about making a connection with the planet.”

Showing at #103-318 Wale Road. For information, see Coast Collective Gallery: coastcollective.ca.

OTHELLO

SHAKESPEARE AT UVIC’S PHOENIX THEATRE NOVEMBER 7-23 SHAKESPEARE’S TIMELESS TRAGEDY Shakespeare’s Othello, surprisingly contemporary thanks to the racism and misogyny that drive the plot, is being tackled by UVic’s theatre department.

“I am interested in bringing the text to life,” explains Phoenix Theatre professor Brian Richmond, who will help the students grapple with the challenges presented by one of Shakespeare’s greatest tragedies.

“I support them as they find the themes that are in the text . . . it’s about getting them to unleash the power of Shakespeare’s words.”

The play is set during wartime in the late 16th century, with dark-skinned Othello a powerful general from a distant land who comes to Venice

as a conquering hero. He marries Desdemona, the beautiful daughter of a Venetian senator, choosing to ignore the prejudice and envy he inspires. He is also blind to the ill will of his trusted aide, the sinister and maligned Iago, who conspires against his master by playing upon his insecurities.

“Othello’s perception of himself as an outsider helps fuel the tragedy,” explains Richmond. “He is duped by Iago as much as by his own nature.”

According to Richmond, the play is about more than simple racism.

“I hope the audience ponders the idea of ‘the other,’” he says. “Our need to blame outsiders for our economic and social woes is very powerful,” Richmond notes. “Othello presents the issue, but leaves it up to us to mull over what the solutions might be. This is a great play.”

For tickets, call 250-721-8000.

ONE-OF-A-KIND HOLIDAY MARKET CRYSTAL GARDEN NOVEMBER 22-24 OUT OF HAND MODERN MARKET

Out of Hand Modern Market returns to the Crystal Garden, offering market-goers an opportunity to connect with some of British Columbia’s most popular artists and makers. Jeweller Joanna Lovett from

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FRANCHISE

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Vancouver, potter Gordon Hutchens from Gabriola and Billy Would Designs from Vancouver are just some of the artists who have a select Canadian market schedule that includes one stop in Victoria at Out of Hand.

Show producer and owner Bethany Wilson has made significant changes to the event experience, now in its second year under her leadership, but the roots of the event are everpresent.

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market are returning, offering our market-goers new lines or series of their work. These are truly talented creators that have a strong following in Victoria with those who attend the market to do much of their holiday shopping.”

Wilson says the remaining artists are experienced or emerging creatives that she was very pleased to jury into the market either for the first time or the first time in a number of years.

The 125 artist and maker exhibits at Out of Hand Modern Market will feature a wide variety of goods, including clay, jewellery, fashion, home décor, children and babies ware, wood, leather, art, food and drink and wine and spirits.

For a full list of vendors and tickets visit outofhand.ca.

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SECRETS&LIVES

building inspiration

Thoreau quote at heart of Erik Larsen’s business and personal mandate

BY ERIN MCPHEE | P H OTO S BY DON DENTON

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FIGHT THE IMPOSSIBLE “Do not hire a man who does your work for money, but him who does it for love of it.”

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RIK Larsen didn’t have to look far to find a suitable mission statement for his Victoria-based boutique construction firm.

Having completed a bachelor of arts degree in English literature at the University of Victoria before switching gears entirely to pursue a career in the construction industry, he was always inspired by the words of countless literary masters.

And inspiration, as well as personal motivation, was precisely what the Victoria native was striving for. Just after he launched his own company, the Larsen Group, in 2008, the economy crashed, severely limiting local construction work.

“I had the time to go back and look at Thoreau in particular, who I had always loved out of all the transcendentalists because he was such a practical guy,” said Erik. “The whole idea of profit extending beyond the monetary — where do you profit in your life? — and letting that reframe how you see the world and approach problems. A big piece of that was me trying to sort through my own anxieties and depression over a lack of work, but also it gave me direction and focus.”

Over a decade later, the Thoreau quote is still featured prominently on the Larsen Group’s website, expressing to future clients who Erik is and why he does what he does.

It also helps keep Erik, a 40-year-old married father of two, grounded. The Gonzales Bay resident says he and his wife, Catherine, an executive at Island Health, continue to make a concerted effort to balance their demanding work and home lives.

“We learned a few years ago that we’ve had to leave our work at the door and allow the jobs to not define us as individuals but to support a happy home life,” he says.

Erik is proud of the fact that the Larsen Group gives him the freedom to be more present at critical times with his growing children.

“It’s very easy to start a company and then have it own you, and I’m proud to have been successful and

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Erik Larsen in the backyard of his home, where he undertook all the renovations.

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to have happy clients and happy employees and also have it not control and dominate my life,” he says.

When they’re not busy with work or school, the Larsen family can be found on the mountain year-round, skiing or snowboarding in the winter, and mountain biking during the warmer months. They also enjoy spending time in the personal oasis they’ve created in the backyard of their 120-year-old, threestorey home. Since moving in 11 years ago, Erik has devoted countless hours to renovating it.

“We did quite an extensive hardscaping, multi-deck exterior job with a nice firepit and hot tub and there’s a big kids’ character-style home in the back, a kids’ playhouse,” he says.

“The creative angle of that was a lot of fun — from design and construction. There was a lot of concrete that I was out there pouring myself. It came together really well. It’s great to have.

The whole yard is another room to the house. We spend a ton of time out there.”

Next, Erik plans to turn his attention to the inside of the house, which is shaping up to be slightly more challenging.

“Starting with something that’s that old is, I would say, a lot less fun,” he laughs. “It’s a ton of head-scratching and it’s taking me a few years just to get my head around the engineering and to try and sort it out.”

Erik is definitely up to the challenge, however, coming from a long line of woodworkers, carpenters and tradesmen.

“Even my grandfather was a woodworker,” he says. “Everyone always had shops. At a young age there are pictures of my dad and I when I was three and four in the shop with him. He would build boats, constantly renovate the house, small appliance repair, you name it. It’s always just been a natural thing.”

Erik’s siblings have followed a similar path. His brother is a custom furniture builder and his sister is an interior designer, and they often collaborate on professional projects.

And now Erik’s eldest child, nine-year-old Kai, seems to be showing a similar interest in maintaining the family legacy.

“Kai has an engineer’s mindset and is really fascinated with architecture and buildings in general,” he says. “He loves the Vancouver downtown library. Stuff like that really blows his mind. My father was a draftsman and a city planner as well as a carpenter, so it definitely runs in the family. It wouldn’t surprise me if Kai decided to go down that road. And my daughter Ella, 7, is all about dance.”

Erik is incredibly proud of the team he has created with the Larsen Group and their wide-ranging skill set, allowing them to handle every facet of a renovation, from design to construction to hand-built furnishings for rooms.

“Our distinguishing factor is our in-house suite of services,” he says. “Being able to take on a project and handle the majority of the items gives you a massive degree of control over the progression and the costing of the job and I think that’s a huge benefit.”

Maintaining an expansive service list is incredibly important to Erik and speaks to another aspect of his company’s mission statement. By allowing his staff more opportunities to be creative and to do different things, he hopes he’s feeding their respective passions for the work. By prioritizing this approach, which is more old-world in nature, Erik is intentionally revitalizing the classic role of a carpenter.

And he hopes Thoreau would approve.

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BEHINDTHESTORY

W

HEN FIRST DISCUSSING how a BC Cancer Foundation and Boulevard collaboration might work, we were stumped on how cancer treatment and fashion related to each other.

After tossing around a few ideas with Anna-Lise ter Mors, event manager for BC Cancer Foundation, and Amanda Wilson, Jingle Mingle chair, the connection suddenly became clear. BC Cancer - Victoria is not just about cancer treatment and research, but at its core, it is about people. And fashion is not just about clothes, it’s ultimately about personal expression.

For our fashion story we brought together an inspiring group of six people to celebrate gorgeous local fashion. Each has been shaped by cancer in his or her own way, and from them we got a reminder of gratitude, the preciousness of each day, the joy of giving back and even a sense of magic.

The BC Cancer Centre in Victoria is world-class in its comprehensive cancer care and treatment, and home to the Deeley Research Centre, which is one of the first sites in the world to pioneer an immunotherapy research program that uses genomic approaches to generate more precise and potent immune responses against cancer.

Since its inception in 2007, Jingle Mingle has raised more than $7 million to support care and research for patients with cancer on Vancouver Island. On Thursday, November 28, BC Cancer Foundation hosts Jingle Mingle, presented by Thrifty Foods, at The Fairmont Empress, to raise funds to bring new treatments to cancer patients on Vancouver Island. Go to jinglemingle.ca to be added to the reservation list.

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