TASTE THE SEASON
Tips for your farm-to-table feast VANCOUVER LIFE AT ITS FINEST
BACKYARD SANCTUARIES
Where imaginative design elements blossom
OUTDOOR OASIS
ESCAPE TO PARADISE
European elegance meets the best in outdoor living
Luxury Automotive Brands
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Designing with two-tone or tri-tone cabinetry not only adds interest and depth to any size kitchen, it also allows for an individualized expression of style. While the all-wood kitchen look may be frowned upon by many designers, it has made a comeback in multi-tonal designs. This tri-toned kitchen uses black painted wall cabinets, maple-stained island, and natural white oak open shelving and range hood detail. A beautifully unique space that won't go out of style.
Beauty on the inside. And out.
BOULEVARD GROUP PUBLISHER
Mario Gedicke
250-891-5627 info@blvdmag.ca
MANAGING EDITOR
Susan Lundy
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Lia Crowe
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Natlaie Bruckner
Lia Crowe
Laura Goldstein
Susan Lundy
Kaisha Scofield
Ellie Shortt
Chloe Sjuberg
Jane Zatylny
DESIGNERS
Lily Chan
Nel Pallay
Maria Lobanova
Tammy Robinson
Crea Zhang
ADVERTISING SALES
Mario Gedicke
Vicki Clark
Carien Rennie
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Lia Crowe
Byron Kane
Ema
Peter Photography
Brett Ryan Studios
DISTRIBUTION
Marilou Pasion
Marilou@blackpress.ca 604-542-7411
LIFESTYLES
E SCAPE TO PARADISE
European elegance meets outdoor living at its finest
B y Natalie Bruckner
BACKYARD SANCTUARIES
Imaginative design elements blossom in gardens of all sizes
B y Laura Goldstein
Photo by Brett Ryan Studios
Words
B
B
Monica
B
In thinking about the outdoor-living theme of this issue of Boulevard, I realized the memory bank is empty. The garden is fallow. I simply have no stories to tell that involve lounging in a backyard sanctuary. I do, however, have a story that involves nature—maybe not the glorious, colourful and silky textured area of nature that is an outdoor oasis—but still, it includes something of the natural world, so we will make it fit.
Last winter, my husband Bruce and I spent a few months living in Connecticut with my daughter, her husband and newborn baby. Most Sundays, the two of us set out on exploratory road trips, discovering all parts of Connecticut, as well as nearby states like Rhode Island and New York.
And so it was one Sunday morning, we were driving through the quaint seaside villages of northeastern Connecticut—Guildford, Madison, Clinton—when we passed a sign for Lyme. I snorted slightly (and you’ll soon see why) but didn’t say anything. Then we hit East Lyme, and on my Maps app I could see there was also a North Lyme and an Old Lyme. Finally, we both burst out laughing.
The story began when we woke early that day to get a good start on a trip to Mystic, Connecticut. I was in the kitchen, boiling water for coffee, when I heard Bruce make a gasping sort of “eek!” sound.
“Look at this!” His voice had a timbre I didn’t recognize, so I rushed to his side, where he pointed at his chest. “I felt it last night, but I thought it was a mole.”
This was no mole. Sticking straight out of his chest was one ugly, plump, dark-coloured tick. This on a man who can’t handle anything that crawls. That unfamiliar pitch in his voice, I realized, was barely contained panic.
My immediate reaction was to grab my phone and Google “how to remove a tick.” Seems like a sensible thing to do—you know, find and follow expert advice.
PHOTO BY LIA CROWE
the great outdoors
“We need tweezers,” I said, searching unsuccessfully through my toiletry bag. I knew Danica would have tweezers, but it was early and she, Tim and the baby were sleeping. It seemed cruel to wake them up. But Bruce didn’t give me time to consider our options, anyway. He dashed into the workshop and grabbed a pair of pliers.
It was my turn to “eek!”
“Um, I don’t think pliers are recommended.”
But Bruce and the pliers were going in. He yanked at the tick, pulling out the body, but leaving a black spot in his chest that suggested he may not have got all the little tick bits.
Now, a few hours later, seeing yet another sign for Lyme, I decided to do a little research. I’d already learned that it takes at least three days after a tick bite for Lyme disease to develop, and we had agreed Bruce would see a doctor the next day. So, a bit of levity seemed fine.
“Fun fact!” I said brightly, reading from my phone. “Lyme disease takes its name from Lyme, Connecticut. This is where the illness was first identified in the United States in 1975.”
I added, “How amazing that we are driving through Lyme and you still have a little bit of tick sticking out of your chest!”
Visiting his son in New York the next day, Bruce practically ran from the train to a walk-in clinic, where a doctor used tweezers to pull out the remaining tick head and arms and gave Bruce a 24-hour course of antibiotics. The doctor offered Bruce a chance to look at the little tick bits, but he declined. Perhaps he was too busy wondering where he could find a beautiful outdoor oasis to lounge and recover from his traumatic ordeal. (I told you I’d make it fit!)
I hope you enjoy the stories and images contained in this issue of Boulevard, and that you dwell within the finer aspects of outdoor living this summer.
Susan Lundy Managing Editor
Susan Lundy is a former journalist who now works as an editor, author and freelance writer. Her latest book of humour columns, Home on the Strange, was published in 2021 via Heritage House Publishing.
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life.style.etc.
JOY CHAO, DIRECTOR & PRINCIPAL INTERIOR DESIGNER PHOTOGRAPHY LIA CROWE
WHERE WERE YOU BORN AND WHERE DID YOU GROW UP?
I was born in Taiwan, finished high school in the Bay Area, and then moved to Vancouver with my family.
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR CAREER PATH?
I stumbled into design by accident. After obtaining a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in creative writing, I started helping out with my father’s development projects, which really sparked my passion for design. I returned to school to earn my RID while establishing the interior design side of our firm with my partner, John Henshaw.
WHAT IS THE ONE ASPECT OF YOUR WORK THAT REALLY GETS YOU FIRED UP?
New ideas and possibilities. There’s nothing like the thrill of a fresh concept.
WHAT ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT OUTSIDE OF WORK?
My work is intertwined with my personal passion for art, so whenever I travel, I’m always exploring art galleries and museums. Even just walking around in a new city and seeking out new inspirations fuels both my professional and personal creativity.
WHAT’S THE BEST LIFE LESSON YOU’VE LEARNED IN THE LAST FIVE YEARS?
Things always work out one way or another.
WHICH OF YOUR INNATE QUALITIES OR DAILY PRACTICES HAS LED TO YOUR SUCCESS?
There’s always a solution. Nothing is impossible.
WHAT IS GOOD STYLE TO YOU?
Whether in fashion or interior design, good style is what makes you comfortable and confident. It’s about creating a look or a space that feels authentic to both the people designing and using it. Comfort and confidence go hand in hand, and that’s the essence of good style to me.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONAL STYLE?
Eclectic! I tend to shop emotionally and love discovering unique items when I travel. For me, it’s not just about the piece itself, but the story of how I found it and the memories attached to it. Each item in my wardrobe has its own tale, making my style a reflection of my personal journey and experiences.
FASHION & BEAUTY
STYLE INSPIRATIONS & LIFE
Style icon: Daniel Craig as James Bond—wearing the most impeccable Tom Ford suits, tailored to perfection and looking effortlessly cool.
Favourite fashion designer or brand: Rei
Kawakubo of Comme des Garçons. She is always designing something unexpected. Her designs are always challenging conventional norms and inspire me to think outside the box.
Favourite musician: Miles Davis.
Film or TV show that inspires your style or that you just love the style of: Ocean's 8—all the ladies are impeccably dressed and exude fun and elegance.
Favourite cocktail or wine: A good vintage Champagne.
Album on current rotation: Any classic jazz. Favourite flower: Peony.
One thing that consistently lifts your spirits during hard times: A good book or TV show and a nice glass of wine.
Uniform: Most days, you can catch me in some variation of a crisp white cotton shirt paired with a good skirt or jeans.
Favourite pair of shoes: I have many (an entire closet full of shoes, ha ha), but currently, a pair of slipper-style loafers brings me joy. I got them in Florence a year ago. They’re just so comfortable and bring unexpected colours into my wardrobe.
Favourite day-bag: I often leave my bag in the car because I don’t like to carry a handbag. I can usually get away with just my phone.
Favourite work tool: My brain and my iPhone. Fashion obsession: Exploring the endless ways to style a white shirt. It’s a staple in my closet and allows me to explore pairing different colours, cuts, materials and accessories.
Necessary indulgence for either fashion or beauty: A good lip gloss goes a long way. My current favourite is Kiko Milano 3D Hydra Lipgloss in #08 Natural Rosewood. It’s the perfect neutral.
READING MATERIAL
Fave magazine: The New Yorker, T Magazine, The New York Times Sunday Edition.
Last great read: A travel piece in the New York Times about the island of Pantelleria by Amy Tara Koch and photographed by Paolo Pellegrin. The story was beautifully written, evoking a mood that’s also captured by the stunning black and white photos.
Favourite book and/or one you’re recently reading: As I’m bilingual in both English and Mandarin Chinese, I tend to read widely and eclectically. One book that made a very deep impression, even after all these years, was Patrick Suskind’s Perfume, published in 1985. Suskind somehow captures scents and all the lusciousness of the 19th century so vividly. The book was written in German originally and the translation was done brilliantly by John E. Woods, another aspect I deeply appreciate, having learnt English as a second language.
Nutritional biofeedback Understanding
body data
WORDS KAISHA SCOFIELD
ihave a smart watch that gives me a real time connection to my body. I know how many hours I’ve slept; how many of those hours were spent in REM/deep/core sleep; I can check my heart rate in real time; estimate my stress levels; I can even see how well I recovered from my workout.
I have so much data on the functions of my body, I should be an expert on how to maintain optimal health and wellbeing, right? What I actually use my watch for is skipping to the next song on my workout playlist, reading texts while walking, and enjoying the little sizzle of digital fireworks across my display when I hit my daily movement goal.
If this sounds familiar, it’s because you are one of the over 200 million people worldwide using a smart watch or other wearable tracking device and, like me, you’re probably not taking advantage of the health data you’re constantly recording. But this data is useful, and with a little practice, you can start using it to recognize patterns and make adjustments to your lifestyle, ultimately achieving optimal health and wellness.
Nutritional biofeedback is a way to use information or data tracking to delve deeper into your energetic, nutritional, digestive and overall physical health and wellness. By harnessing your collected data (electronically or otherwise), you can better understand the way your body functions and then make informed choices to better support your overall health system. Some examples of this are sleep, stress management, nutrition/ digestion and hydration.
Understanding sleep cycles is something that many of us struggle with. Even when practicing responsible sleep hygiene— going to bed on time, putting devices away well before sleeping, avoiding caffeine and sugar late in the day, et cetera—you can still suffer sleepless nights. Certain stages of life like teenhood and early parenthood, traumatic experiences and peri/menopause can also cause bouts of insomnia.
Sleep is a necessity for the functioning of our overall system, and the unpredictability of sleep is primarily due to the delicacy of our circadian rhythm and how dependent it is to the regulation of our central nervous system. For example, chronic lack of sleep disrupts our cognitive function, which can result in poor decision making and desperation for quick energy, typically resulting in a higher dependence on caffeine, sugar and caloriedense foods. We often consume these unconsciously because our nervous system is desperate to keep the body fuelled.
This cycle of chronic fatigue, caffeine and sugar consumption can disrupt all levels of bodily function, especially our ability to manage and process stress.
Both sleep and stress reactions in the body can be interpreted in similar ways, by measuring heart rate, breathing patterns, movement acceleration, et cetera. More specifically, wearables use the heart rate monitor to measure stroke volume and length between beats to calculate your heart rate variable (HRV), which is then able to gauge the state of your autonomic ner-
vous system. They also use a built-in accelerometer to monitor movements and respiratory signals that determine your muscular and cardiovascular reactivity.
Stress management is something nearly all of us struggle with and some find stress monitors actually increase their anxiety. But understanding the data and recognizing improvements can propel a desire for action and ultimately empowerment. Studies have shown that even understanding how the body expresses stress leads to a more proactive approach to engaging in positive mental-health supports like physical activity, therapy and medication. This can be especially helpful for those who otherwise struggle to acknowledge their mental health needs.
Monitoring nutrition and digestion can be a bit more complicated than the above-mentioned systems, simply because it is much more difficult and invasive to gather the data needed to understand the complexities of digestion. For example, the breakdown of digestive flora and stomach acid levels, or the pH of pancreatic amylase, is impossible to gather via a watch. However, people tend to be acutely aware of changes to their digestive functioning and, while they may not be able to pinpoint the exact disruption, those who record their nutritional intake are more likely to develop the ability to understand and manage digestive health.
Recording nutritional and digestive patterns can be accomplished by keeping a journal, either electronically or with old-fashioned pen and paper.
The most effective way to record your food and digestive functions is via a food journal that includes what you ate, when you ate, how you felt, digestive reactions (gas, bloating, elimination) and energy levels. After recording for a couple of days, patterns can emerge around which foods may be more beneficial or harmful to your digestive system. This can show up in digestive reactions, but also in energy levels, sleep function and even mood.
Hydration is another self-monitoring system. We still don’t have complex enough technology to accurately monitor hydration levels in the body, but many tech companies are working at it. The best way to monitor your water intake is, therefore, to track it yourself via an app or simply have a prepared amount of water on hand to consume throughout the day. A few other ways to monitor your hydration levels are to pay close attention to the colour of your pee and to watch out for signs of dehydration, in the form of headaches, brain fog, fatigue, irritability and digestive upset.
Nutritional biofeedback offers a valuable tool for learning how to look at the entire body system through a combination of data collection tools. Each of these systems is an integral part of how the body works as a whole.
As we familiarize ourselves with the data collected on sleep, stress, digestion and hydration, we are able to pair it with our perception of fatigue, energy or neutrality. Becoming adept at this comparison can help us become experts on our own health signals, making adjustments, testing data and ultimately finding practices that lead to ongoing health and wellness success.
Words and illusions
Art and math merge in the stunning and unique work of Mark Ollinger
WORDS JANE ZATYLNY X PHOTOGRAPHY LIA CROWE
The Dutch g raphic artist M.C. Escher once said, “For me, it remains an open question whether [this work] pertains to the realm of mathematics or to that of art.” The same question applies to the work of Mark Ollinger, a 35-year-old Chemainus-based sculptor who uses unconventional geometric designs and graffiti art as a base for his artistic practice.
Not only are Mark’s designs unconventional, so too are his tools. When I visited his studio, a massive computer numeric control (CNC) laser cutting machine hummed in the corner, its high-power laser beam flashing as it cut a pattern into a wooden surface. On one side of the studio were pieces of intricately cut wood, waiting to be assembled, while on the other side sat two completed sculptures: a sphere and an obelisk. The sculptures resembled Chinese puzzles or mazes with their tight, geometric designs. There was something so compelling, so unique about these wooden pieces and I wanted to know more about how Mark got his start.
Mark was first exposed to woodworking through his father’s work as a carpenter and, over his career, has combined his knowledge of that trade with his artistic designs. By his early teens, he was creating art daily and working as a freelance graphic designer and silkscreen artist.
“I gravitated towards self-expression instead of team sports,” he said. “I rode skateboards a lot, and I became absolutely obsessed with graffiti, the idea of a single line…and the fact that I could take a word and then turn it into this thing.”
Each of his works uses a letter or words as a foundation for the design and begins and ends with a single line.
“When I was creating graffiti, the word I wrote was apathy,” he said. “I was just over it in school; I was pretty apathetic. But then there was a shift, and I started writing ‘a path.’”
After he graduated from high school, Mark founded Duality Clothing, a skateboard/snowboard apparel company, and continued his daily practice of painting in a Vancouver studio.
“For the next seven years, I ran this business,” he said. “I thought— wrongly—that it was going to free up my time so I could create more art.”
By 2014, Mark had returned to his original passion: creating paintings and sculptural works. I Who Have Nothing, a 243- by 182-cm acrylic and aerosol painting on canvas, is a seminal work from this period that now hangs in his home.
A single turquoise line spells out a quote from an influential rap song; the maze appears to rise over a background of burgundy, yellow and gray triangles.
“This is one of the biggest accomplishments in my art career so far,” said Mark. “It took me almost 18 months to make, all by hand.”
As the line weaves over and under itself, it intersects in two places: where it goes over and where it goes under. This, for Mark, represents the visualization of a human lifetime:
admissions@qms.bc.ca qms.bc.ca
ESCAPE FROM THE ORDINARY
Island, British Columbia
“Every experience you have, whether it’s negative or positive, creates the opposite down the line.”
“Every experience you have, whether it’s negative or positive, creates the opposite down the line.”
As Mark’s work evolved, the use of digital designs and a CNC laser cutting machine allowed for more complexity in his designs. In 2015 and 2016, he created a body of unsanctioned street work which he installed abroad in Melbourne, San Francisco and Los Angeles, and in Canada in Vancouver, Toronto and Montreal.
It all began with an invitation to Australia.
“I was dating a girl, and she was going to Australia for a month,” said Mark. “She asked me if I wanted to go. I said if I come, I’m going to build these street sculptures.’”
Installed Banksy-style in the middle of the night, these sculptural pieces gained notoriety for Mark, leading to articles in art and culture publications like Gross, Beautiful Bizarre and Hyperallergic magazines. Eventually, the coverage led to important exhibitions in the US and Canada.
Returning home to Vancouver, Mark’s work began to grow and evolve into three distinct and ongoing series: Illusion & Reality, Enterdimensional and String Theory.
“Illusion & Reality focuses on the deconstruction of optically distorted two-dimensional images,” explained Mark. “These works focus on taking shapes and ‘punching’ optically distorted images through them in order to further the illusion and create spontaneous imagery in the combination of the two or more shapes.”
Enterdimensional works involve the “birth” of a two-dimensional image into the third dimension.
“I take the imagery that started as acrylic on canvas and ‘pull’ that imagery out of the panel,” Mark said.
The green sphere in Mark’s studio is from this series, and is a counterpoint to a red pyramid sculpture.
UNIQUE BY NATURE
“Together they embody the idea of dominance versus the idea of coexistence. The red said ‘ego,’ representing anger, while the green said ‘eco,’ representing nature.”
String Theory works are focused on constructing 3D objects out of the maze concept. “I’m taking the ideas that I had and expanding on them in a 3D way, wrapping them around shapes and becoming very complex with the process,” he says.
In 2021, Mark moved to Chemainus to continue his practice outside of an urban setting.
“It’s a funny thing,” he said. “I’m just some obscure dude doing these things out here. One of my neighbours is a mechanic and the other is a millwright who works at the sawmill. What’s so great is that we all have this side of ourselves that is unique, that differentiates us from others…small towns are filled with people doing really unique things.”
Though he recently rented a studio space in Brooklyn, New York, Mark plans to remain in Chemainus, become involved with the community and continue to expand upon his work. Before I left his studio, we turned to his newest piece, Gnosis, a 190-cm tall, pyramid-shaped stained pine and acrylic mirror sculpture.
“It doesn’t fit any of my previous series,” he admitted, and I couldn’t help but peer into the mirrored interior.
“When you look in, it becomes this sort of infinity mirror, because we can’t really understand ourselves,” said Mark. “This is what’s known as the ‘golden loop,’ as in Escher’s drawing of a hand drawing a hand, that occurs when a system selfreferences.”
In all of his works, Mark wants his viewer to see the path— the single line. “I’m trying to create an objective observation of
the conscious experience. That’s why it’s so simple. That’s why it’s one single line: it all goes back to the path.”
As for whether Mark’s work, like Escher’s, should be categorized as mathematics or art, the answer, in my mind, is another question: Why can’t it be both? www.markollinger.com
A playground like you’ve never imagined.
Let your sense of adventure out to play, delve into incredible cultural and culinary experiences, and explore a place that you’ll want to revisit again and again.
The Yukon is just two hours from Vancouver with Air North, Yukon’s Airline.
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Photo: Cathie Archbould / Government of Yukon
Escape
to paradise
European elegance meets serene lake views and outdoor living at its finest
NATALIE
Walking along the pathway to the right of the house presents sweeping views of Bear Creek Provincial Park across the waters.
WORDS
BRUCKNER X PHOTOGRAPHY BYRON KANE
As you meander down the winding driveway, each gentle curve reveals fleeting glimpses of the breathtaking expanse of Okanagan Lake below. Sunlight dances on the water’s surface, casting a mesmerizing array of sparkling reflections that beckon you further into this hidden oasis. Tucked away yet tantalizingly close to downtown Kelowna, the approach to this property feels like a sanctuary—a serene escape from the bustle of everyday life.
Curiosity peaks as the sight unfolds: a house that seamlessly marries the timeless elegance of European castles with the quaint allure of English/Irish countryside cobblestones. These elements blend effortlessly, unveiling a truly enchanting residence.
Here, in the area known as McKinley in Kelowna, a hidden paradise awaits. On one side of the house, a majestic rock formation embraces the property, while below, a tram stands poised to transport you down to a private 100-foot dock. Within this two-acre sanctuary, a characterful yet humble home resides.
It’s impossible not to admire just how well the property integrates into its surroundings—a true testament to its impeccable design and material selection.
“The designer, Chandra Payer from Absolute Interior Design, collaborated closely with both the client and us to select earthy tones that exude a natural aesthetic with timber, stone and stucco, which
creates an almost timeless European charm,” explains Bruce Young, president at Bercum Builders, a company renowned for its expertise in crafting unique high-end homes.
Walking along the pathway to the right of the house presents sweeping views of Bear Creek Provincial Park across the waters.
A little further and you encounter an indoor/outdoor living space that is quintessentially Okanagan—a space that could easily be considered the heart of the home.
A dipping pool and a hot tub beckon, while an outdoor kitchen stands ready for culinary adventures. It’s equipped with every amenity imaginable, including retractable drop-down screens to keep pesky bugs at bay while preserving the warmth within. Nearby, an outdoor lounge area awaits with a gas fireplace and wood ceilings, offering an inviting retreat to watch the stars come out.
“The beauty of this lot is that it offers complete privacy—you can’t see the house from the road,” says Bruce.
To blend indoor and outdoor living, eight-foot sliding glass doors lead into the indoor kitchen and lounge area, ensuring that the beauty of nature is never far from reach. This home is a testament to the art of outdoor living at its finest.
Ascending a slope around the left side of the house, there is a sports court adjacent to an upstairs gym. Returning to the front of the house, a grand 10-foot pivot door stands as a bold invitation into the interior, where the rock theme continues, ensuring
a consistent aesthetic throughout. Immediately to the right is an “Irish pub” decorated with a traditional brick wall, as well as the iconic green and black hues associated with the stout Guinness. With its spacious layout, large-screen TV and expansive windows, it serves as the ideal setting for both leisurely gatherings and professional engagements.
Continuing up the corridor on the left is a chilled wine room built out with reclaimed fir, offering ample space to store hundreds of wines from across the region.
Throughout the home, the striking theme of black and wood persists, with sleek black doors, cupboards and handles complementing the warmth of the wooden floors and natural wood touches, such as the ceiling beams. These elements harmonize with its crisp white surroundings, resulting in a sleek and contemporary ambience that flows effortlessly from room to room.
Venturing further into the house, you’ll find an inviting sitting room, where, once again, panoramic views unfold before you.
“We tried to make the most of the view from every room,” explains Bruce.
Here, a majestic gas fireplace becomes the focal point, its flames dancing against the backdrop of soaring 12-foot ceilings adorned with wood beams, adding a touch of rustic elegance to the space.
Adjacent to the sitting room is an open-plan kitchen. Though modest in size, it’s equipped for culinary endeavours, and includes a beautiful eight-burner Wolf oven, perfect for the home chef.
Concealed behind this is a discreet hideaway kitchen. With oak cupboards and granite countertops, there’s ample space for meal preparation.
To head upstairs, you can take the stairs or the elevator (a foresight for aging in place). On the second floor and on the right is where you find the master bedroom, seemingly suspended above the lake, with sunlight streaming in to illuminate the space. A master balcony extends an invitation to the outdoors, where tranquility in this private sanctuary once again awaits.
“You can imagine having your morning coffee out here on the deck and watching the sun come up,” remarks Bruce, and rightly so.
The master suite boasts two walk-in closets and an en suite featuring a luxurious soaker bath and a spacious glass walk-in shower. Beams again adorn the ceiling, infusing the space with charm and character.
This allure of the home continues to unfold, revealing three guest bedrooms, each a haven of comfort and style. Offering ample en suites, walk-in closets and unique vistas, every guest is treated to a personalized retreat.
“You get a great view from each room. We tried to capture the view of the lake as much as we could with the siting of the home,” notes Bruce.
Eight-foot sliding barn doors along the corridor usher you into a versatile entertainment space, perfect for unwinding with family and friends. A movie room? A games room? The options are endless. The upper level is also a sanctuary of fitness and relaxation, beginning with the spacious gym adorned with sunlight and echoing with the promise of rejuvenation, and a sauna to warm those aching limbs.
Heading out of the gym and back outside, the journey continues within the confines of the double-car garage, where a sports room—equipped with ventilation to cater to the active pursuits of its inhabitants—awaits. Yet, concealed behind what seems like an ordinary door lies a hidden gem—a golf simulator room! This adaptable space could easily double as a haven for quiet reflection or spirited competition; it could even be adapted to serve as boat storage—a testament to the home’s versatility and thoughtful design.
Somehow, despite its 5,044 square footage, this home doesn’t impose its size upon you. Clever design ties it all together, creating a true homely feel for year-round living. And again, despite its size, the home is equipped with carefully planned irrigation and secure access, facilitating worry-free travel.
“The journey from start to finish has been a two-year process, but I have to admit, the result is one myself and everyone who worked on it takes immense pride in. It’s tough to pinpoint my favourite parts. The master bedroom? The outdoor living space, perhaps?” muses Bruce.
And I would agree. There isn’t a single part of this property that I feel could be improved upon.
SUPPLIERS LIST
Builder: Bercum Builders
Architect: Baxter Design
Design: Absolute Interior Design
Structural Engineer: ROV Engineering Consultants
Backyard sanctuaries
Imaginative design elements blossom in gardens of all sizes
WORDS LAURA GOLDSTEIN
Paul Sangha garden.
PHOTO BY BRETT RYAN STUDIOS
Behind a simple cedar fence in Vancouver’s Point Grey neighbourhood is “a secret garden, an oasis and a sanctuary for the creative spirit,” confides the late Canadian architect Arthur Erickson in a 1981 National Film Board of Canada (NFB) documentary.
He made his home here for over 50 years, planting colourful rhododendrons and vivid azaleas amid canopies of tall grasses and dense blue bamboo. Douglas fir and apple trees dotted the 8,000-square-foot landscape. The large reflecting pool, a common water element found in many of his architectural designs, became a focal area in his garden and it’s where Erickson contemplated many of his most famous projects. In celebration of the 100-year anniversary of the renowned architect’s birth, the NFB has restored and re-released the short doc called Arthur Erickson
Most of us can only dream of such a Shangri-La, but whether you live on a sprawling property or only have access to a small balcony, you can incorporate imaginative elements to create your own backyard sanctuary.
“When we moved to Manila in the Philippines from Uganda when I was a little boy, I remember a very urban area, with my grandfather growing everything in pots—and I saw the care he was putting into watering and looking after his plants,” reminisces Vancouver landscape architect Paul Sangha, of Paul Sangha Creative. “And my maternal grandparents, living in India, had a lovely garden, so I was influenced from both sides about living in nature within an urban environment.”
Whether he’s working on a large or small project, Paul likes to “get into the mental space” of his clients. “I think about what I have to deal with to create privacy. Is there a lot of wind? How much shade does the property get? Is there too much sun exposure—does the client even like sun? Sometimes they’ve never even had a garden before so it’s also an exploration for them too.”
An explosion of ideas and imaginative workarounds developed during and after the COVID-19 pandemic and creating a calming garden sanctuary was a direct repercussion.
“There was a monumental resurgence in the importance of gardens in people’s lives then,” Paul says. “You could finally occupy a space, even on a small patio or balcony, and not feel threatened. A big thing was people wanting to grow their own food, whether in pots or gardens. I really feel that we grew up several generations at that time, with people developing
a respect for nature and in terms of their awareness of the environment as a legacy for their children.”
When Paul designs a garden, he emphasizes the importance of fluidity of movement: “Too many right angles bother people,” he explains.
People’s emotional response to colours, textures, water and fragrance sets the stage for a garden sanctuary, rejuvenating, restful, nostalgic or romantic. Think of the key role gardens played in Jane Austen novels or the current TV series Bridgerton or Frances Hodgson Burnett’s The Secret Garden.
“Art and sculpture also play a big role in any garden and their positioning is of vital importance,” says Sangha. “Sometimes a small piece in a quiet corner can make a bigger statement than a large sculpture.” Some of Paul’s clients are already art collectors and his company will even design pieces internally.
“We work with local artists and fabricators to commission pieces from award-winning artists like sculptor Marie Khouri, and we get amazing Indigenous work through Douglas Reynolds Gallery.”
Lighting is another important element in creating a garden sanctuary, Paul says: “I see it as a whole canvas, where an exciting new world opens up at night.”
He adds, “I like to use a lot of water in my landscape designs, whether large pools or koi ponds. Water transcends every culture. But no rushing water as that creates anxiety,” Paul laughs.
Whether having your morning coffee on the balcony or entertaining friends for dinner in the garden, dining outside is one of the great pleasures of having your own backyard sanctuary. Paul suggests investing in good furniture pieces appropriate
Arthur Erickson.
to our climate; pieces that allow for the air to pass through to prevent mildew like the German company DEDON’s beautiful woven butterfly-inspired collection, PAPYON..
As new fashion and paint colours trend every year, so too do garden styles. Trending in 2024 is the dramatic “goth garden” that evokes the Victorian era’s obsession with moody, overgrown greenery and crumbling statuary. That doesn’t mean you should rush out to plant poisonous belladonna! You can create your own interpretation, focusing on a profusion of deep purples like “living on the edge” irises, black-burgundy nasturtiums and chocolate-scented black dahlias interspersed with beguiling, partially hidden stone angels and mythical creatures. Keep in mind that sustainable, eco-friendly plants that attract pollinators like bees and butterflies can never go out of style.
On a more intimate scale, mobiles, seashell collections and driftwood from your beach travels, lattices, screens and trellises for vertical gardening, and living walls do double duty in small spaces. Cascading plants and flowers also add privacy and add to the mood. Water features, such as a small trickling bird bath or hummingbird feeder, all induce contemplation and repose.
Large or small, when surrounded by such a calming sanctuary, you can roll out your yoga mat or meditate anywhere.
The documentary Arthur Erickson is available for free streaming on NFB.ca, and his garden oasis is open to the public via guided tours, April to October. Book here: aefoundation.ca/ tours
Paul Sangha garden.
PHOTO BY EMA PETER PHOTOGRAPHY
photography by Andrea Ferrari
business class
Making waves Randy Bishop dives into BC’s swim spa revolution
WORDS NATALIE BRUCKNER X PHOTOGRAPHY LIA CROWE
“When I introduced the Endless Pools line, I saw how it transformed not just backyards but lifestyles. It’s about bringing fun and fitness together in a way that everyone can enjoy.”
When Olympic swim legend Michael Phelps, six-time Ironman world champion Dave Scott and professional triathlete Ben Hoffman start raving about something, you know it’s worth paying attention. These titans of athletic prowess are all buzzing about the latest sensation in outdoor living and fitness: swim spas. More than just a fleeting fad, these sleek aquatic marvels are transforming backyard leisure into a dynamic and luxurious experience across BC.
Leading the charge in BC’s swim spa revolution is Randy Bishop, a Langley-born entrepreneur whose passion for elevating outdoor spaces knows no bounds. From his early days in ski sales to mastering the art of patio furniture, Randy’s entrepreneurial journey has culminated in the creation of Bishop’s Outdoor Living—a beacon of innovation and style in the realm of backyard leisure.
If the name Randy “Mad Dog” Bishop rings a bell, it’s no surprise. A true Langley native, Randy made waves as the former owner of the iconic sporting goods store, Mad Dog’s Source for Sports. To fully grasp his remarkable journey, we need to rewind to the day it all began—when Randy boldly purchased five pairs of skis, five pairs of bindings, and eight pairs of boots.
“And that’s how I started Mad Dog’s,” Randy reminisces. “Six years later, we were moving 1,000 pairs of skis and had expanded to a total of eight stores.”
Randy noticed a trend from a guy back East who was successfully selling skis in the winter and patio furniture in the summer. Inspired, he decided to give it a shot, and the combination proved to be a hit, seamlessly blending the element of fun that both seasonal products offered. Building on this success, Randy expanded into hot tubs and then swim spas— moderately-sized jetted tubs in which you can
stay in one place while swimming against the current created by the jets.
Randy recalls his transition with enthusiasm: “When I introduced the Endless Pools line, I saw how it transformed not just backyards but lifestyles. It’s about bringing fun and fitness together in a way that everyone can enjoy.”
His journey with swim spas began with a vision to bring accessible recreation to local homes. “My family has been in the business since 1940,” he says. “After diversifying from ski and patio furniture sales, we saw an opportunity to redefine outdoor leisure.”
Over the past few years, Randy made a bold move to a new location in Burnaby. Here, he established Western Canada’s largest swim spa dealership, turning Bishop’s Outdoor Living into the ultimate destination for swim spa enthusiasts, as well as all manner of outdoor living furniture and hot tubs. These swim spa models are renowned as being the best in the business and cater to every need—from compact residential units to bespoke installations.
As an avid outdoorsman, Randy understands the allure of making the most of BC’s natural beauty.
“There’s nothing better than unwinding in a swim spa after a hard day skiing or fishing,” he reflects, fresh from a successful fishing trip. “We live in a province where enjoying the outdoors is essential. Not everyone can or wants to travel far for recreation. Having a swim spa in your backyard makes that experience accessible and enjoyable year-round.”
The Endless Pools line, endorsed by top athletes and recreational users alike, exemplifies this evolution. From the entry-level R-Series, designed for family fun and low-impact exercise, to the premium E-Series and X-Series, featuring advanced current technology and hydromassage capabilities, each model promises a unique aquatic experience tailored to individual preferences.
“We’ve had clients share remarkable stories of recovery and fitness transformation,” Randy says. “One client near Harrison Mills regained mobility through regular sessions in their swim spa, citing the buoyancy and gentle resistance as pivotal in their rehabilitation.”
Beyond physical benefits, swim spas are lauded for their energy efficiency and minimal upkeep compared to conventional
pools. Their compact design makes them suitable for smaller spaces, allowing more people to enjoy the luxury of a swim spa without needing a large backyard. The design and placement of insulated covers help maintain water temperature, reducing energy costs while extending usability throughout the year—a significant advantage in colder climates.
As interest in outdoor wellness continues to surge, swim spas are poised to redefine backyard leisure.
“It’s not just about selling a product,” Randy notes. “It’s
about enriching lives through accessible, year-round fitness and relaxation.”
As a true testament to the product, Randy himself has an X-Series swim spa in his backyard that he and his grandkids get to enjoy 12 months a year, because, as he says, “You can turn the temperature up to 104 degrees.”
He adds, “I’m very passionate about this. It’s like skiing in that way, which may sound strange, but it’s all about having fun.”
Farm-to-table tips for your summer feasts
o you know where your food comes from? Where it really comes from? Not which grocery store, country or even city, but which field grew those carrots, which hands picked those tomatoes, and which farm and farmer made it possible for you to enjoy your dinner tonight.
While some lucky folks can grow a bit of what they eat in their own backyards, most of our foodstuff comes from farms. An increasing number of these farms aren’t what you might picture: colourful fields of mixed veggies, cows nibbling on fresh green grass, sun-soaked farmers lovingly tending to livestock and seed. Most of the farms that fuel our food system are industrial megamachines cranking out as much as possible, for as cheaply as possible, at the increasingly unforgiving expense of nutrient density, regeneration, living wages and employment rights, humane treatment of animals and entire ecosystems, and environmental sustainability. It’s scary and heartbreaking, and a tough thing to troubleshoot as world populations increase and we have to think of ways to feed our global family, especially those with limited access both financially and geographically.
This complex and challenging conversation won’t be fully explored or solved here, but for those of us lucky enough to call British Columbia our home, we have the immense honour and privilege of at least being able to support local farms and farmers. We are fortunate to live in a climate that enables us to grow a variety of fruits and vegetables, and one that also allows poultry and livestock to graze outside for most, if not all, of the year. There are also some amazing people doing exceptional things with biodynamic and ethically mindful farming practices that are further cultivating and protecting our food systems for long-term sustainability, both in the areas of agricultural regeneration and job safety and security.
KNOW WHAT’S IN SEASON
The first step to supporting local farming systems is simply to know what’s available so you can plan your menus and shopping around what’s fresh and flavourful. By sourcing locally and inseason, you’ll notice a huge improvement in taste and have the added bonus of greater nutrient density. Fruits and vegetables that must travel a long way are often picked before peak ripeness to keep them from rotting in transit but limiting their ability to develop flavour and nutrient profile.
KNOW WHERE TO FIND IT
Many grocery stores now offer signage that states what country the produce is from. Some label the province, and even the specific farm that provided the item. This can help guide you to make more locally mindful purchases. If you have access to a car, I highly recommend weekend drives on rural roads and stopping at farm stands and even the local farms if they have storefronts
Salt Baked Salmon Fillets
Baking fish in a salt crust is a beautiful way to impart flavor and keep your fish moist. The crust provides insulation, slowing down the cooking time and allowing for a really evenly baked fish. Our recipe calls for dill, lemon and leek, but you can use any aromatics that you like and lend well to your complete meal
Ingredients:
Serves 3-4
2x 300g center cut portions wild BC salmon, skin on, pin bones removed
750g kosher salt or sea salt
4 egg whites
2 Tbsp water
3 slices lemon
1 small bunch dill
¼ leek, thinly sliced 2x 30cm lengths of twine
Method:
• Preheat the oven to 400F.
Check ourforwebsite more greatrecipesseafood
• In a medium bowl, mix together salt, egg whites and water to form a sandy looking mixture and set aside.
• Take one piece of salmon, skin side down, and lay half of your dill on top of it. Place your leeks and lemons on top of the dill, then place the remaining dill on top of that. Put your other piece of salmon on top of the dill so the skin is facing up. Gently tie into a little parcel with some twine.
• Line an oven proof baking dish with a piece of parchment paper. Put about ½ of the salt mixture on the parchment and make a nest that will fit the salmon bundle. Pack the remaining salt on top of the salmon so it is completely encased.
• Bake for 35 minutes. Remove from the oven and let rest for another 10 minutes. After the resting period use a serrated knife to cut off the top of the salt crust.
• Serve the salmon warm with your favourite sides, and enjoy with the ones you love.
or allow visitors. It’s not only a sweet way to spend a Sunday, but also gives you a firsthand glimpse at our growing systems.
KNOW THE TERMINOLOGY
It’s worth familiarizing yourself with what organic, free-range and grass-fed actually mean, so you can better navigate your purchases.
Organic farming endorses environmentally sustainable and socially responsible practices, with mindfulness for soil regeneration and water conservation. Produce and grains with organic designation are grown without the use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides or fertilizers.
If you’re sourcing dairy, eggs, meat and poultry, you’ll likely come across terms like free-range, grass-fed or pasture-raised. When adhered to properly, free-range should mean that the animal is allowed to roam free in a natural setting, affording it appropriate exercise, fresh air, socializing and access to its natural diet. Pasture-raised is a similar concept, implying that the animal had access to pastures for things like food, exercise and socializing. Grass-fed is often synonymous with pasture-raised but not always. Sometimes the livestock will only have access to grass for certain elements of their diet but may otherwise be kept indoors and given other forms of food like grains from time to time. For the most part, however, anything labeled free-range, pasture-raised or grass-fed is not only more ethical and environmentally sustainable, but also more nutrient dense and flavourful than conventional counterparts.
So now that you have a bit more background on how to navigate your farm-fresh purchases, let’s bring it to the table for a fun little feast. The following are some easy and adaptable ways to feature local ingredients, whether you’re hosting a brunch, lunch or even casual summertime dinner. Set up a table outside, gather with loved ones, and celebrate the bounty of summers in BC.
Blueberry Galette with Honey + Chamomile
Galettes are yet another great way to enjoy the bounty of our local farms. Use seasonal berries, apples, peaches or whatever you have on hand, slice, chop or mix for a sweet and juicy centre, or opt for a savoury flavour profile with tomatoes or summer squash. This dough works well for either sweet or savoury, so have fun with it—galettes are meant to be rustic, easygoing and even a little bit messy.
Ingredients FOR THE CRUST…
1 cup unbleached all-purpose flour (I used True Grain Organic BC Untreated White Flour)
½ tsp salt
½ tsp granulated sugar
½ cup cold unsalted butter, cut into ½-inch pieces (I used Avalon Dairy Organic Butter)
1 tsp apple cider vinegar
2 large eggs, divided Ice water (if needed)
Optional sprinkling of cane sugar
Optional ice cream for serving (I used Parachute Lemon Cream Ice Cream)
Directions
FOR THE FILLING…
2 cups fresh blueberries (frozen is good too, you’ll just need to thaw and drain them first)
¼ cup honey (I used Babe’s Honey Farm Wildflower Honey)
2 tsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp dried chamomile, finely ground (you can use a handheld wcoffee grinder or spice grinder to do this)
Combine the flour, salt and granulated sugar in a large bowl. Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture and work it between your fingers until the dough resembles coarse crumbs and there are no large pieces left. Alternatively, you can use the pulse function on a food processor, taking care not to overwork the dough.
Gently whisk one egg and add it, along with the vinegar, gently kneading the dough with your fingers until it comes together, for no more than a couple of minutes (or you can slowly pulse them in if using a food processor). Form the dough into 6 round discs, wrap and place in the refrigerator to cool for at least 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 400 F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Place all the filling ingredients into a mixing bowl and stir gently until evenly combined.
In a small bowl, whisk the remaining egg and set aside for an egg wash.
Dust a clean work surface with flour, and roll each dough disc into circles, about ⅛-inch thick, gently transferring each circle to the baking sheet after it’s rolled out.
Evenly disperse the blueberry mixture in the centre of each circle, leaving about an inch of dough around it. Fold the edges of the dough up and onto itself, one section at a time, and gently brush with a small amount of the whisked egg (do all this as quickly as possible so that the juices don’t soak into the dough).
Sprinkle the galettes with some cane sugar, transfer to the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the crust is golden-brown.
Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving with ice cream.
Zucchini and Chèvre Frittata
Frittata is a fantastic way to showcase in-season veggies. While this recipe calls for zucchini, you can really substitute it with other farmer’s market finds such as eggplant or tomatoes. Using fresh eggs and high-quality grass-fed or pasture-raised cheese from local farms will make this great brunch or lunch dish even more special.
Ingredients
2 tbsp olive oil, divided
1 onion, peeled and sliced
1 medium zucchini, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
8 large eggs
1 cup milk (2 per cent)
½ cup heavy cream
About ½ tsp salt
About ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
About 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves
1 tbsp grainy mustard
2 tbsp chives, finely chopped
1 cup shredded cheese (I used Little Qualicum
Cheeseworks Monterey Jill)
1 cup crumbled chèvre (I used Salt Spring Island Chèvre)
Directions
Preheat your oven to 425 F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the zucchini rounds evenly on the baking sheet, drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil, sprinkle with a bit of salt and thyme leaves, and place in the oven. Roast for about 10 minutes until the zucchini is soft. Remove from the oven, set aside, and turn the oven down to 375 F.
Heat a large cast iron pan to medium-low, add the olive oil and onions and sauté until soft, translucent and slightly brown (this may take a while, but it’s worth it for a rich and sweet flavour).
Once cooked, remove the pan from the heat.
Meanwhile, whisk the eggs with the milk, cream, salt, pepper and mustard, and then stir in the chives and cheese.
Place the roast zucchini over top of the cooked onions, saving a few for the top (this is just for aesthetic purposes as shown in the photo, so don’t feel like you have to do it this way). Pour the egg mix over the cooked onions and zucchini in the pan, and then place a few leftover cooked zucchini rounds artfully around the top.
Carefully place the pan in the oven (you may want to put it in the same parchment-paper-lined baking sheet you used for the zucchini just to safeguard for any spills).
Bake for 45 minutes to an hour, until the centre is cooked through.
Garnish with extra dollops of chèvre, a sprinkling of chives and/or some fresh cracked pepper and enjoy!
Tomato + Fresh Herb Salad with Lemony Breadcrumbs
This is one of those non-recipe recipes. Aside from toasting the breadcrumbs, it’s mostly just prep and assembly, which is one of the best ways to enjoy fresh in-season foods. Tomatoes at their peak ripeness are such a special treat, and I find these “garnishes” elevate and enhance their sun-kissed flavour, and allow the tangy sweetness to really shine.
Ingredients
1 pint assorted cherry tomatoes, halved
½ red onion, thinly sliced
1 slice rustic bread (I used Wildfire Bakery’s sourdough rye)
2 tbsp capers, drained and rinsed
1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
1 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 lemon
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, divided
Sea salt
Directions
Tear the bread into small pieces and set aside. Heat a medium-sized frying pan to medium heat, and drizzle in some olive oil to lightly cover the pan. Add the bread bits to the pan, as well as a sprinkling of sea salt, and stir occasionally until golden and toasted all over (about 5 minutes). Remove from the heat and mix with some zest from the lemon (about ½ tsp). Transfer the lemony breadcrumbs onto a plate and set aside.
Spread the tomatoes on a serving platter and gently mix in the shaved onion and capers.
Halve the lemon and squeeze a bit of lemon juice all over everything (about a tbsp), drizzle with olive oil (about a tbsp) and sprinkle some more sea salt over everything.
Top with the breadcrumbs and fresh herbs and serve.
Pinot, Portland & Pickathon A marvellous medley
WORDS SUSAN LUNDY
Sitting on an outdoor patio at Amaterra winery, overlooking the lush hillside and distant cityscape, and sipping a truly fine pinot noir, my husband Bruce and I reviewed our day exploring Oregon wine country.
It was early August, and we were here to take in Portland, nearby wineries and an annual music festival called Pickathon. So far, nothing disappointed, and it had been an absolute revelation to discover the glory of Oregon wines, especially the pinot noir, which happens to be my go-to red.
Our tour today took us winding through the picturesque Tualatin Valley, which sits in the northwestern edge of the Willamette Valley, Oregon’s leading wine region and home to two-thirds of the state’s wineries and vineyards. You can find almost 800 wineries across the valley from Portland south to Eugene.
After enjoying the drive from downtown Portland through wide-open stretches of rural landscape, we followed the signs to Elk Cove Winery, circling our way up a pretty, residential hillside, and gasping as we drove through the gates to meet a magical vista of lush rolling vineyards and distant hills. Sampling a flight of red and white wines and partaking in a snack on the vineyardview patio, we agreed the rich flavours of the wine lived up to the glorious setting.
A short drive away, we wandered into the historic white farmhouse and tasting room at David Hill Winery. The farmhouse, originally built in 1883, opens up to a serene outdoor patio, cushioned amid the sprawling vineyards and mountains views. The farm is 140 acres with 40 acres of pinot noir, pinot gris, riesling, chardonnay and Gewürztraminer and some of the oldest vines in the state.
But it is the pinot noir varietal that reigns supreme in Oregon, and we revelled in a flight of silky samples.
And now at Amaterra, we have sampled yet another glorious flight of wine. We have also enjoyed dinner overlooking this spectacular vista and selecting from a menu laden with seasonal dishes with locally sourced ingredients. Amaterra opened in January 2022; it boasts a 46,000-square-foot facility with a 12-acre vineyard, located in the West Hills area of Portland. The location makes it a simple rideshare away from the heart of downtown, and we easily navigated Uber rides there and then back to our hotel.
PORTLAND
After arriving in Portland, which is an easy 5.5-hour drive from Vancouver, we found our way to the Heathman Hotel, located in a lovely, quiet, treed neighbourhood. The hotel has been a Portland landmark and cultural fixture since it opened in 1927. It’s hard to miss the towering shelves and gleaming chandelier in the hotel library, where guests can unwind with a coffee or drink, surrounded by 2,700 books, many signed by notable authors. The rooms are both sophisticated and modern, and the restaurant is renowned for its Pacific Northwest cuisine. But it is the location that really sets the Heathman apart.
From here, we walked everywhere, even discovering a Wednesday market that popped up in nearby Shemanski Park. We browsed the wares of some 30 vendors selling farm-fresh food, flowers and much more amid the peaceful greenery.
Amaterra winery. PHOTO COURTESY AMATERRA
Setting out to the famed Pearl District on our first night, we stepped down from sidewalk level into a cool bar called Fools and Horses for an enjoyable drink and oysters. But the main event that night was a sushi feast at the renowned Janken. The first thing you notice entering this popular spot is a massive cherry blossom tree, with its flowery canopy bursting in a heavenly pink above the diners. Everything here is thoughtfully curated, from the lampshades to the little lights on the bar and even the minimalist tiling. The motto of this place is everything is “better together” because most of the dishes are created to be shared.
For breakfast, we dined the first morning at the The Daily Feast and—loving its excellent food and classic diner feel—we went back the next day as well. On our final night, we walked to the trendy Slabtown district and enjoyed dining and people-watching on the patio at Solo Club. Often seen as the unofficial “waiting room” for Besaw’s—a famed 1903-era restaurant—located next door, Solo Club is run by renowned mixologist David Rodriguez, and it’s the place to go if you like creative cocktails.
With just a few days in Portland, and a tantalizing number of tourist attractions, it was hard to decide what to take in. But we love to walk, and the weather was warm and wonderful, so we headed out to the Portland Japanese Garden, where paths wind through a quiet forest, past cascading waterfalls, serene ponds and manicured bonsai trees.
In the same area, we discovered the International Rose Test Garden, a floral paradise boasting over 10,000 roses of various
colours and fragrances. Established in 1917, it’s the oldest public rose test garden in the United States, and its proof of the good vibes that come from the adage “stop and smell the roses.”
Fulfilling a love of history and architecture, we also toured Pittock Mansion, which is perched atop Portland’s West Hills. Built in 1914, this French Renaissance-style chateau showcases panoramic views of the city, and its opulent interiors feature exquisite craftsmanship, period furnishings and fascinating exhibits detailing the lives of its former residents, media mogul Henry Pittock and his wife, Georgiana Pittock.
For our final adventure, we hopped aboard a Portland Spirit Cruise, and motored gently along Willamette River, learning about Portland’s waterfront landmarks and a bit of its history.
PICKATHON
For the final leg of our journey, we travelled to nearby Pendarvis Farm in Happy Valley for the kaleidoscope of sound and visual artistry that is Pickathon. This music festival is one-of-a-kind, weaving together a stunning, rolling farm and forested setting, art installations that range from towering sculptures to whimsical interactive exhibits, great musical acts, and an impressive commitment to the environment.
Exploring the grounds is a bit like traversing an enchanted forest, where magic emerges around every corner. All of the seven outdoor stages (there are some indoor stages as well) are set in their own environment, with their own food and drink
The Antique Gate at the Portland Japanese Garden.
PHOTO BY ROMAN JOHNSTON, COURTESY TRAVEL PORTLAND.
vendors, art installations and, ultimately, their own unique atmosphere. The Woods Stage, for example, is located deep in the forest, set to a backdrop of artfully woven wood and cathedral-like trees, and surrounded by tenting spots.
Arriving at the venue, you’re given a cup to use for any drink of your purchases. And the first time you buy food, you buy a plate, which you then use for all your food, exchanging it for a clean version as you go along. With these two small steps, plus having no packaging on any of the food merchandise, garbage was eliminated from the festival. So simple and yet so transformative, especially since it’s common to see overflowing garbage cans and recycling bins at big events.
Pickathon has a number of other things going on, including “Curation,” a special ticketed event that pairs some of the musical acts with Portland chefs and mixologists for a long-table meal in a stunning, private space. The Curation design team gathers edible flowers, native plants, salvaged items and organic materials to augment the lush natural setting. The result is something to behold.
We loved the relaxed vibe of Pickathon, clapping and dancing along with the many musical acts, which included both established and emerging artists and a nice variation of genres.
This is a special music festival, and attending it topped off a memorable trip to Oregon, where pinot, Portland and Pickathon amount to a marvellous medley.
“Curation,” a special event at Pickathon music festival.
PHOTO BY SUSAN LUNDY
David Hill Winery.
PHOTO COURTESY EXPLORE TUALATIN VALLEY
secrets and lives — AND THE 7 SINS with MONICA MICHEL
WORDS CHLOE SJUBERG X PHOTOGRAPHY LIA CROWE
Dr. Monica Michel is the founder and director of Soma MD, an advanced medical aesthetics spa in South Surrey. She’s dedicated to helping her patients feel like the best version of themselves, achieving safe and natural outcomes with treatments backed by extensive medical expertise, all with a holistic approach to care that’s rooted in both mental and physical wellness.
Monica’s family is of Egyptian heritage, and she was born in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, where her father had an ophthalmology practice. In 1995, when she was nine, she immigrated from Abu Dhabi to Edmonton with her parents and older sister.
After her undergraduate studies at the University of Alberta, she pursued her medical education at St. Matthew’s University School of Medicine in the Cayman Islands, did two years of a general surgery residency in Cleveland, Ohio and completed a family medicine residency in Akron, Ohio. In her final year of her residency in 2013, she gave birth to her first child, Hannah.
After graduating in 2014, she returned home to Canada to begin her career in family medicine and aesthetic medicine.
“Due to the harsh winters in Edmonton, as well as wonderful career opportunities presented to me in BC, I was able to find a home in beautiful South Surrey, where I laid down my roots.”
In 2019, she founded Soma MD, inspired to counter the commoditization and stigma of the medical aesthetics field by bringing the focus back to the “medical” side, and paying attention to emotional health and wellness as well as physical appearance.
As a practicing family physician, she noted how powerful an impact her patients’ mental and emotional health had on their physical health. And often, when people came in for aesthetic procedures, she says, “There were things going on in the background where they needed to dig a little deeper, and I felt like that wasn’t exactly happening in the field of medical aesthetics.”
“We do these things to make ourselves feel better. But at some point, we need to look at the underlying cause. How do we put our best foot forward if we’re not feeling good in both mind and body?”
Accordingly, Monica places a great value on building authentic relationships with her patients, and getting to know what’s going on in their lives that brought them to Soma.
“We do these things to make ourselves feel better. But at some point, we need to look at the underlying cause.”
“I love the connections that I get to make with people—having conversations, making those relationships, looking into their lives and seeing what brought them here.”
At Soma, Monica specializes in non-surgical facelifts and anti-aging procedures using dermal fillers and neurotoxins to safely rejuvenate and restore patients’ natural appearance.
“We counter the signs of aging, keeping in mind that as we get older, we lose volume, gravity works against us and our features start to head downwards. So, what we do is try to lift people back up, to bring back their own version of what they were born with, really.”
Other medical services Monica and her team provide at Soma range from hair rejuvenation therapies to treating dermatological conditions like acne, eczema and rosacea. Monica acknowledges that the field of medical aesthetics can have a superficial reputation, due to the commoditization of the industry, and the concern that practitioners exploit people’s insecurities for profit.
“I think, on the outside, medical aesthetics seems like a money thing. But really, the risk you take, if you’re not doing it because it deepens your meaning in life or helps people out generally, I honestly don’t think it’s worth it [to get into this field for the money].”
Instead, Monica measures her success by the quality of the relationships she builds.
“The number of people who say ‘Monica’s a good person’ or ‘I felt good when I went to Soma,’ that’s how I measure my success,” she says. “I could make zero money, but if I have a good conversation, at the end of the day, I’ll feel like that was a great day.”
And one of the most powerful practices for anti-aging? There’s that saying that we’re only as old—or as young— as we feel, and in her daily life, Monica certainly embodies this. She reflects that she didn’t have much time for fun in her 20s because of the commitment of years of med school and residencies—so now, in her 30s, she is enjoying life to the fullest and infusing her days with fun, letting her inner child out to play whenever she can.
“Oh my gosh, I’m like a kid outside of work,” she laughs. “I love shopping, spending time at the beach and the ocean, seeing live music, making jokes and pranking people. April Fool’s is my favourite day of the year! I just want to laugh and find joy and not take life too seriously.”
The 7 Sins
ENVY:
Whose shoes would you like to walk in?
Definitely Cleopatra! As an Egyptian woman, walking in Cleopatra’s shoes would be motivating and empowering. She was highly educated, known for her diplomatic skills, and navigated a male-dominated world with skill and strategy. Her historical and cultural legacy is inspiring.
GLUTTONY:
What is the food you could eat over and over again?
Mexican food—recently a good guacamole makes me very happy. Indian food—tandoori chicken and palak paneer. And molokhia—my favourite Egyptian dish ever since I was able to eat solids! If you haven’t tried it, make sure you do. It may not look appetizing due to its green colour and slimy consistency, but it’s delicious!
GREED:
You’re given $1 million that you have to spend selfishly. What would you spend it on?
My first priority would be to pay off my debts. Financial freedom would allow me to pursue passions and experiences that enrich my life, like travelling to new places and learning new skills. I would be setting the stage for a future filled with adventure, growth and lasting happiness.
WRATH:
Pet peeves?
People who lack authenticity! Also, stereotypes—for instance, about what physicians should look like, how we should dress, etc. They’re outdated, and focus on the surface rather than the core of a person. Just because I love fashion, beauty, tattoos and other forms of self-care, it doesn’t make me any less of a physician.
SLOTH:
Where would you spend a long time doing nothing?
Sailing in the wide ocean, feeling the warmth of the sun on my skin, listening to music.
PRIDE:
What is the one thing you’re secretly proud of?
It’s no secret—motherhood is my greatest pride. It’s like being given a magical cape that grants me the power to shape a little person’s world, filling it with love, wonder and endless possibilities. It’s a journey that brings me unparalleled joy and fulfillment. So, yes, I wear my motherhood badge with pride, joy and a sprinkle of playful delight!
LUST:
What makes your heart beat faster?
The feeling of being loved truly and authentically. Each sincere word and genuine gesture fills me with warmth. It’s the kind of love that strips away all pretenses, allowing me to be my true self, embraced and cherished for exactly who I am.
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