Western Living January/February 2024 by Canada Wide Media

SPECIAL ISSUE

Kitchens & Baths 2024 Design Your Perfect Space

+ A Gorgeous

Vancouver Home Inspired by an Aussie Beach House

Plus Western Living Jan / Feb 2024

$12.99

PM 40065475

Recipes for Pretty Plant-Based Cakes

Merit Kitchens Presents

The Kitchen Designer of the Year Contest BEST OVERALL AESTHETICS 

BEST SMALL KITCHEN 

BEST DESIGN & LAYOUT 

BEST DÉCOR & COLOUR 

BEST SPACE OPTIMIZATION 

Congratulations to the winners of the Five Best Categories.

Thank you Merit Dealer Network participants. Visit us online to preview all the 2023 entries.

1-888-408-9856 | merit-kitchens.com/kitchendesigner

CONGRATULATIONS to our Grand Prize Winner Luxe Kitchens of Roberts Creek, BC

Beauty on the inside. And out.

22 20 HOMES + DESIGN 13 TRADE SECRETS DWK Interiors creates a dramatic but hardworking home office.

16 GREAT SPACES Table Architecture Collective brings some manners to Vancouver’s Please Beverage Co. 18 ONES TO WATCH Weights just got wonderful: the mother-daughter duo at Lifted Movement brings together fitness and design. 20 COLOUR CODE The skies may be gray, but furniture is trending sunny. 22 MY MEXICO CITY Ben Leavitt of PlaidFox Studio shares his top Mexico City destinations.

J a n u a r y / F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 4 / westernliving.ca

FEATURES

FOOD + TRAVEL

26 YES, CHEF! Innovative, functional and beautiful kitchens for your 2024 home reno inspo.

66 TAKE THE CAKE Impress your dinner guests with these incredible plant-based desserts from Vancouver baker Lyndsay Sung.

42 RETREAT CENTRE Our favourite bathroom designs: think pretty tile, hidden storage, new tech and more. 56 UNDER THE BIG SKY Designer Andrea McLean and architect Howard Airey collaborate on a light-filled coastal oasis.

B.C. & ALBERTA » VOLUME 53

» NUMBER 1

CONTENTS

77 BROOKLYN LIKE A LOCAL Your guide to a perfect day of eating, drinking and sightseeing in this bustling borough.

PLUS 82 MOOD BOARD Architect and WL Furniture Designer of the Year Alan Hung on cycling, cinema and cafés.

COVER: LM Studio/Tina Kulic; this page (home) Andrea McLean/Ema Peter

14 SHOPPING + OPENINGS Statement wallpaper, lush seating, stylish appliances and more hot homewares.

Th ski res ge an

The Natuzzi Italia Adam coffee table is characterised by natural colours and elements such as wood and stone that are skillfully and elegantly mixed with the oldest craft history of Puglia. Designed by Marcel Wanders, the Adam coffee table is a result of stylistic research involving shapes and materials. Designed to be a timeless precious object to be handed down from generation to generation, this coffee table can be the protagonist of any space due to its mix of different materials. Available and displayed at INspiration Furniture’s Vancouver showroom. 1275 W 6th Avenue Vancouver B.C., Canada 1348-C United Blvd. Coquitlam B.C., Canada

westernliving.ca ceo & group publisher Ryan Benn group vice president, publishing & operations Nina Wagner

editorial editorial director Anicka Quin

editors-in-chief Nathan Caddell (BCBusiness), Janine Verreault (Vancouver magazine) managing editor Alyssa Hirose assistant editors Kerri Donaldson, Rushmila Rahman editor-at-large Stacey McLachlan wine and spirits editor Neal McLennan contributing editors Melissa Edwards, Barb Sligl, Amanda Ross, Julie Van Rosendaal editorial intern Megan Zolorycki email mail@westernliving.ca

design senior art director Jenny Reed art directors Stesha Ho, Edwin Pabellon

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finance group vice president, finance Conroy Ing, CPA, CMA vice president of finance Sonia Roxburgh, CPA, CGA accounting Terri Mason, Eileen Gajowski

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EDITOR’S NOTE

There’s a piece of furniture in my home office that I love because of its history: it’s a 1930s Regency-style writing desk that belonged to my grandmother. She moved to Toronto from Ireland, raised her kids there (including my dad), and when she was 60, she decided to go to the University of Toronto to get her bachelor’s degree—which she completed at this very same desk. While my design style gravitates toward mid-century modern—I spent years collecting teak pieces, and I’m a sucker for a button-backed sofa—I love what this dash of Hollywood Regency brings to my space, not to mention the sentimental nature of the desk itself. You’ve likely heard the design adage that it’s best not to get too matchy-matchy when it comes to home decor. Folks today are less likely to buy a complete furniture set for their bedroom (though you’ll still spot plenty of those in estate sales), or to choose a sofa, love seat and accent chair that are all in the same fabric. And whether you’re starting from scratch or you’ve collected pieces over time, as I have, the space you’re creating often feels most comfortable when you design it to feel like it didn’t come from a catalogue—when it’s truly personal to you. I was reminded of that philosophy while chatting with Kelly Deck about the new home she designed in Vancouver’s Shaughnessy neighbourhood—you’ll see the gorgeous bathroom from that home on page 54. She and her team worked with the homeowners to make sure it fit right into Shaughnessy’s turn-of-thecentury vintage, but not to the point of being beholden to that era. “You’re not trying to create a time capsule,” says Deck. “You want the home to look as if it was collected over multiple decades.” I hope the pages to come provide you with plenty of inspiration for curating a furniture collection that reflects your own personal range of styles and interests. And if you’ve got a sentimental piece that you love in the mix, drop me a line to tell me about it—the great stories our readers share with us about their homes and design journeys is one of the many perks of editing this magazine.

Anicka Quin, Editorial Director anicka.quin@westernliving.ca Follow Anicka on Instagram @aniqua Follow Western Living on

Portrait: Evaan Kheraj; styling by Luisa Rino, stylist assistant Araceli Ogrinc; makeup by Melanie Neufeld; outfit courtesy Holt Renfrew, holtrenfrew.com

Design Sentiments

J a n u a r y / F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 4 / westernliving.ca

Western

Grey Monet (Honed) VANCOUVER

VICTORIA

Unit 106, 1551 Broadway St., Port Coquitlam, BC V3C 6N9

Unit 3, 1010 Yates Street,Victoria BC, V8V 3M6

Office: 604 949 3046

CALGARY

EDMONTON

Western Living .Jan. Feb.indd 1

WINNIPEG

Office: 250 419 7272 (Enter from Johnson St.)

TORONTO

MONTREAL

OTTAWA

vicostone.ca

NEW COLLECTIONS

2023-11-15 1:33 PM

HOMES+DESIGN> Spotlighting the best of architecture and design in Western Canada.

Room photo: Rebecca Frick; architecture: Trickle Creek Designer Homes; portrait: Up And Away Studios

TR A D E S EC R ETS D esigne d by J E N N M A C D O N A L D , DWK Interiors , Calgar y

The Look: Gorgeous in Grey You could describe this Calgary home office as “masculine” or “moody.” Or, you could articulate the vibe like DWK Interiors designer Jenn MacDonald: “Scotch, cigars and tailored threepiece suits.” It’s a space that mixes cognac leathers and deep jewel tones to create a materials palette that is totally distinct from the rest of the light and airy home. Particularly striking is an extensive coat of rich charcoal paint (Benjamin Moore Wrought Iron), which covers the trim, built-in shelving and even the ceiling... as well as the hidden millwork door that connects the room to the foyer. “The homeowner wanted to be able to work here but also entertain clients and colleagues,” explains MacDonald. “A vintage ‘men’s club’ experience, right at home.”

westernliving.ca / J a n u a r y / F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 4

HOMES + DESIGN SHOPPING EDITOR’S PICK Ripple Effect Add some visual rhythm to your home with Bonaldo’s Dorian sideboard (from $6,580). The repetitive concave pattern on the facing (in matte bronze, lead or white lacquered wood) adds elegant texture and drama while it stows away clutter and confidently displays your artful decor pieces. (Think: bronze statue meets storage solution.) dwellmodern.ca

Haden Dorchester 2-Slice Toaster in Silt Green, $150. crateandbarrel.ca

Bejewelled Bathtime Give your bathroom a sleek, colourful upgrade with these FP5 decorative sink faucet handles (price upon request) from Kallista’s One collection. With a flower-esque pentagon shape and vibrant colourways (pink, teal and cream) it’s like minimalist, postmodern jewellery for your bathtub. kohler.ca

Marble Slab The Cyrano coffee table (rectangle dimensions, $10,985) from Castello Lagravinese Studio is the height of sophistication despite sitting low to the ground. A blend of marble and bronzed mirrors, it’s a radiant statement piece. That statement? Luxury. arkinteriors.ca

I grew up in a toaster-oven family— regular toasters just wouldn’t cut it for my after-school tuna melts or cinnamon toast. But since I got an air fryer (yes, I’ve enthusiastically joined that cult), my poor little toaster oven hasn’t seen much action... and it certainly doesn’t earn the valuable counter space it sits on. So, I’m on the hunt for something that’s more compact. And design-forward, while I’m at it. This retro blue-green toaster with faux wood details should do the job: it’s small, stylish and has that very important bagel button.

—Alyssa Hirose, managing editor For more editors’ picks visit westernliving.ca

Noteworthy

New in stores across the West. By Kerri Donaldson

Smoke Show Where there’s smoke, there’s fiery design. The hand-tufted Smoke rug (from $5,700), designed by Anne-Marie Cabrol, is bringing the heat to your home decor with a swirling, burnt orange patterned floor tapestry (also in a blue swirl version) that’s sure to spark some warm compliments. roche-bobois.com

J a n u a r y / F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 4 / westernliving.ca

A Stone’s Glow Bask in the natural stony radiance of Studio Henry Wilson’s ethereal Surface sconce (from $2,995). Choose between bronze or classic travertine; each stone sconce displays its own unique veining—and for the metal version, its own patina—for naturally imperfect perfection. providehome.com

Fine Dining Invite the beauty of Portugal’s breezy Algarve coast to your next dinner party with the Messina dishware collection (dinner plate, $35). Serving up enchantment with a side of timeless style, this array of hand-finished stoneware is bringing otherworldly to the table. thecrossdesign.com

New Shops, Showrooms + Shop-in-Shops By Kerri Donaldson

Moody Blues Drape a room in instant decadence with Denise McGaha’s Grouse Rain wallcovering and fabric (fabric $202.50/yard, wallcoverings $82.30/ yard), part of the Vervain collection. Layer the enchanting moody red and blue tones and unique floral pattern on your windows, walls and wherever for a maximalist dreamscape that’s anything but subtle. layersandlayers.com

Deep Blue Seat A chair that refuses to take a seat, Baxter’s bold blue Elli armchair (from $11,750) is anything but subtle. Leatherclad and available in many eye-grabbing colourways, its unique shape gently cradles you in comfort while it commands the spotlight. livingspace.com

CALGARY

Royal Flush Kitchen and Bath Boutique Get some help with those freshly minted New Year’s renovation plans as Calgary’s Royal Flush Kitchen and Bath moves to its new 7,000-square-foot showroom in January. Curated with the latest models and luxury brands in residential plumbing (from Wetstyle bathtubs to Kartners bathroom accessories), it has everything (including the kitchen sink). royalflushboutique.ca VANCOUVER

New BSH Home Appliances Showroom: Luxe Appliance Studio Newly opened in the heart of Vancouver’s Mount Pleasant neighbourhood, the Luxe Appliance Studio showroom brings a distinctly West Coast flavour to the home and kitchen appliance scene. Featuring eight kitchen experiences across an 8,500-squarefoot space, the showroom is outfitted with the latest appliances from Bosch, Thermador and Gaggenau brands and offers a unique layout that embodies the essence of West Coast cooking while also paying homage to Mount Pleasant’s dynamic and vibrant artisan community. bosch-home.ca VANCOUVER

New Trail Appliances Showroom: Casa Bertazzoni Kitchen

Counting Sheep For a soothing sleep aid, these organic cotton blankets ($185) from Calgary’s Black Sheep Mattress are here to swaddle you in style. The classic waffle-weave pattern adds cozy charm to any bed, couch or wherever you wish to curl up. blacksheepmattress.com

Hoping to upgrade your kitchen this year? Trail Appliances has teamed up with the world’s oldest family-owned appliance manufacturer to bring the “Casa Bertazzoni” kitchen to Vancouver—only the fifth in the world. Designed by Vancouver-based interior designer Sarah Gallop, the showroom, which opened in November 2023, immerses you in a deluxe, fully equipped kitchen to peruse all the latest in Italian-designed cooking appliances. Expect colourful gas range ovens, modern steel refrigerators, sleek warming drawers, and lots of opportunity to envision yourself entertaining and cooking in your own state-of-the-art dream kitchen. bertazzoni-appliances.ca/en/casa-bertazzoni

westernliving.ca / J a n u a r y / F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 4

HOMES + DESIGN GREAT SPACES

Brighten Up A coat of fresh white paint brought new life to a tired space; colourful rolling planters (right) can be shifted along the length of the table to divide it at different points.

YES, PLEASE

The fresh, lush tasting room at Please Beverage Co. redefines the cocktail bar aesthetic. By Stacey McLachlan / Photos by Janis Nicolay

Once upon a time, this high-ceilinged space in Vancouver’s Mount Pleasant neighbourhood was chock full of old Cadillacs and Lincoln Continentals: a car repair shop, albeit one that happened to be lousy with natural light. Today, the vehicles may have puttered away, but the lofty room remains open and airy—with tasty cocktails on tap to boot. It’s the home of Please Beverage Co.’s new tasting room; a space for the distillery to serve up flavourful infusions like their rhubarb fizz.

J a n u a r y / F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 4 / westernliving.ca

Table Architecture Collective helped reimagine the space—architect Bill Uhrich has a history of working with breweries and coffee shops, making him an ideal fit for the project. “It was a little rough around the edges,” admits Uhrich. “But it felt expansive in height, which is a bit of surprise in this city.” Within this expansiveness, creating moments of intimacy would be key: a space as good for team happy hours as it is for date night. A canopy adds a sense of scale and keeps the room from feeling cavernous. (Climb the stairs to find a private room for group bookings.) A visit to Please’s recipe lab (and the resident “drinks explorer,” Stephen Tufts) inspired the palette. “He had 300 samples of plants I’d never heard of, in these beautiful ambers and vanillas and pinks,” Uhrich remembers. The architect defined the perimeter and edges with layers of plants, and local artist Mega McGrath painted a lush mural with

Shop ’Til You Drop The takeout area features grab-and-go bevs plus merch and grocery essentials (canned fish, gourmet crackers, even picnic blankets).

those lab-inspired hues. Milltown Contracting came on board to craft rolling planters and bench seating out of ash wood. Those planters shift to create spaces for groups of two, four or longer seating arrangements. “It was a fun project to work on,” says Uhrich. Though we can’t help but wonder: is that because of the professional satisfaction of a job well done... or the unspoken perk of designing a cocktail tasting room? “The paloma’s my go-to,” the architect admits with a laugh.

HOMES + DESIGN ONES TO WATCH

HEAVY SUBJECT Lifted Movement’s new line of design-focused exercise equipment is changing the way we think about home gyms. By Alyssa Hirose / Photos by Adam Blasberg

J a n u a r y / F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 4 / westernliving.ca

ancouverite Kiara LeBlanc has always worked in the wellness space: her parents founded essential-oil brand Saje in the early ’90s, and she worked in the family biz for a decade. When the LeBlancs stepped away from the company in 2020, Kiara remained interested in the industry—especially after a ski accident forced her to be more mindful about her own physical wellness. Kiara and her mother Kate LeBlanc had already been talking about launching a line of design-forward free weights under the name Lifted Movement. “We wanted to invent a new category where home decor and fitness equipment can come together, and create weights that you can proudly display,” Kiara

explains. Lifted’s weights are powdercoated steel, with Carrara marble ends and a silicone grip handle. They’re designed to be seen, not concealed, which is part of Kiara’s goal of eliminating barriers to movement: “When people hide their weights under their couch or bed, how often are they actually using them?” Price, of course, can also be a barrier— Kiara says that outfitting a gym with some of the other luxury brands available can be five figures or more—so the Lifted team considered financial accessibility, too. (Their weights start at $100.) Besides beautiful weights, kettlebells and resistance bands, Lifted’s product line includes exerciserelated furniture. The movement cart, in

“We’ve found the right coating and heating combination so the weights will not be damaged during a standard home workout.” There’s always something to celebrate! and we love celebrating!

There’s always something to celebrate! and we love celebrating!

Need a Lift Kiara (left) and her mother Kate Leblanc officially launched Lifted Movement, a company focused on stylish fitness equipment like hand weights and resistance bands, in late 2023.

There’s always something to celebrate! and we love celebrating!

Truffles_third.indd 1

particular, is super stylish and innovative: it’s a minimal, hardworking table that doubles as storage. The company showed off the stunning products at IDS Vancouver last fall, and started officially shipping in December. The wait may be over, but the weights are just getting started.

There’s always something to celebrate! and we love celebrating! 12/13/22 9:47 AM

H O M E ACC E S S O R I E S W I T H P E R S O N A L I T Y 2 7 1 7 G R A N V I L L E S T. / T 6 0 4 .8 0 6 .0 5 10 / D E TA I L S B Y M R K .CO M

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HOMES + DESIGN COLOUR CODE

Park chair by Bensen ($4,200), informinteriors.com

H Dye blanket by Hermès in Acier/Citron ($5,650), hermes.com

Bellhop portable table lamp by Flos ($508), livingspace.com

Lemon Aid

Bring a ray of sunshine inside to beat the winter blues—this lemon-drop hue popped up on spring ready-to-wear runways, and it’s just as gorgeous at home. The days only get lighter from here. By Joy Pecknold

Newson aluminum chair with arms by Knoll in yellow and black ($1,763), livingspace.com

Flower cocotte by Le Creuset in Nectar ($300), lecreuset.ca

Sunburst easy-care rug by West Elm (from $449), westelm.ca

J a n u a r y / F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 4 / westernliving.ca

3) 02 (2 8 ,# TA O H SI Y G G JU K

PRESENTED BY

JOIN US AS WE TOAST AND CELEBR ATE THIS YEAR’S WINNERS THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1 ST, 2024 HOSTED BY

TERMINAL CITY CLUB 837 W HASTINGS ST SPONSORED BY

VISIT VANMAG.COM/EVENTS FOR DETAILS

HOMES + DESIGN MY MEXICO CITY

COME ALIVE IN MEXICO CITY

PlaidFox Studio’s creative director shares his favourites in the capital city.

2 Luis Barragán Home Tour Skip the lines and tourists at Frida Kahlo’s house and instead visit the home of esteemed global architect Luis Barragán. Built in 1948, Casa Luis Barragán is a true marriage of minimalism and bombastic colour. Outside you’ll see hot-pink walls, and inside there are genius light features that turn whole rooms blue and chartreuse. Just go—you can’t even imagine. casaluisbarragan.org

By Ben Leavitt, PlaidFox Studio

My husband and I visit Mexico City every year because it’s a different adventure every time. I wouldn’t describe it as a relaxing trip, but it is completely energizing. A five-hour flight from Vancouver feels like you’ve travelled across the world for how different it is, from the architecture to the art and cathedrals. Inspiration is underfoot, overhead, across the street— everywhere! Mexico City has a deep appreciation for art and design, and all my senses wake up here and try to take it all in.

1 Sunrise Hot Air Balloon over the Pyramids I’m not the kind of person

who can function without a coffee the size of your head in the morning, but seeing the sun rise over the immense Teotihuacán Pyramids (built in about 100 BCE) is something I’ll never forget—and it’s worth the 5 a.m. pickup. It’s such a unique vantage point, and landing in a farmer’s field is half the thrill. airbnb.ca/experiences

J a n u a r y / F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 4 / westernliving.ca

3 Biking Tour A biking tour (yes, I opted for electric) is the best way to see the city and the local guides are super knowledgeable, showing you lots of interesting history that tourists would otherwise pass by. Despite the city’s size and congestion, it also has some of the largest urban parks in the world and this is a big part of the tour. airbnb.ca/experiences 4 Cocktail Scene While underground shaman-themed speakeasy Xaman Bar has been my go-to (visually it’s a mix between a bougie spa and a rustic cave dwelling), new hot spots like Blanco Colima (great drinks, great scenery) and Ololo (moody pumpkin-orange ambiance) are my new favourites. @xamanbar; blancocolimamx.com; @ololo.condesa

5 Roam the Streets of Roma Norte Unlike more

modern areas like Polanco, Roma Norte is a neighbourhood that still has that original Mexico City feel. The bustling streets are lined with colonial revival buildings in every colour and it’s the youthful spot for cafés, charming bakeries, tons of cool design stores (like Chic By Accident—more on that next) and ceramic shops that sell locally made pieces.

6 Shop at Chic By Accident The design

spot in Roma Norte I tell all my friends about is Chic By Accident. The owner is an architect and designs amazing brutalist homes; his shop is a treasure trove of curated artifacts and interior design relics. chicbyaccident.com

7 Lucha Libre Wrestling is a cultural phenomenon in Mexico. You get the picture when you step inside the giant Mexico City Arena to see whole families screaming in their seats! Book spots close to the ring, order the largest beer you’ve ever seen and get ready to take in a spectacle. I would describe it as wild, irreverent fun and you may even have to dodge a wrestler flying into the crowd. ticketmaster.ca

9 Diego Rivera’s Murals

Husband of Frida Kahlo and a notable artist in his own right, Diego Rivera painted several murals across Mexico and our favourite is in Palacio Nacional. This series depicts the history of Mexico, from ancient times to his vision of the future, and was completed in 1935—and it is not to be missed. Right beside it is the absolutely amazing Metropolitan Cathedral. You’ll feel like you’re in the heart of Europe.

10 Museums in the Park Two of my

favourite museums in Mexico City are in the same park (Chapultepec). The Museo Nacional de Antropología is an architectural marvel, featuring a massive floating roof with a spoke-like waterfall—it’s unbelievable. Museo Tamayo (brutalist architecture on point) has an ever-changing selection of Mexican painters and collections from Oaxaca. mna.inah.gob.mx; museotamayo.org

8 Restaurant Hopping Rosetta and its bar upstairs, Salón Rosetta, are the perfect combo for dinner and drinks. The food is outstanding and the ceramic dishes it’s served on are so beautiful I tried to buy them on the spot. Huset has an amazing outdoor courtyard and Molino el Pujol (the sister restaurant of the esteemed Pujol) is my casual-fare crush (the two share the same star chef). The dish to get here looks like a big basil leaf and has a tortilla inside of it. Don’t let the glossy white tiles and red branding scare you away from Taquería Orinoco— quite possibly the most delicious taco you’ll ever eat. rosetta.com.mx; facebook.com/husetroma; @molinopujol; @taqueriaorinoco

westernliving.ca / J a n u a r y / F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 4

KITCHEN ARCHITECTURE SINCE 1892

SOMETHING NEW IS COMING

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KITCHEN ARCHITECTURE SINCE 1962

CHANGE IS COMING Come snap a deal on any of our sixteen displays before the new models arrive.

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YES, CHEF! Cool and Clean

Keep It Open When Pereira came in to work on this renovation, she was asked to make the kitchen the “central hub” of the home. To achieve this, she moved the existing staircase from the centre of the layout over to the side of the house. “It liberated the view,” says the designer.

J a n u a r y / F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 4 / westernliving.ca

The Julien SmartStation sink is paired with a tap from KWC. The barstools are from Knoll.

For the home cook who loves a space that both works hard and looks beautiful, each of these kitchens is jam-packed with design ideas to make mealtime a joy. By Kerri Donaldson, Alyssa Hirose, Stacey McLachlan, Anicka Quin and Amanda Ross

Make a serious (back) splash with stainless steel Tile is typically the go-to material for backsplashes—but in this Vancouver kitchen, designer Alda Pereira makes a strong case for trying stainless steel instead. The space is already strikingly sleek, designed with serenity in mind: appliances are integrated; the hood vent is recessed into the ceiling and out of sight; the messy prep work of entertaining takes place behind a hidden white oak door to the butler’s pantry. But the swath of stainless steel behind the stovetop creates an elegant (and low-maintenance) finishing touch. “The backsplash seems to disappear into the background and reflect light back into the cooking area,” explains Pereira.

White and Bright The cabinetry here is white oak installed by BFJ Design Custom Kitchen and Closet, while the countertop is Caesarstone in Organic White. (The material runs up the wall to meet the cabinets on the back, too.)

Janis Nicolay

Dine in Style Pereira used a pigmented white oak Riva 1920 table and Ritzwell Marcel chairs for the dining area. An 84.6 Stem fixture from Bocci hangs above. The artwork on the wall is by Bobbie Burgers.

westernliving.ca / J a n u a r y / F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 4

HOMES + DESIGN YES, CHEF!

Ditch the upper cabinets for a clean, airy look Upper cabinetry is useful but can make a space feel dark and closed in—so, is it possible to design a functional kitchen for a family of four with no upper cabinetry at all? Nancy Surby, principal of Nako Design, proves that the answer is yes via this Edmonton kitchen. “Having a sizable pantry really helps,” explains the designer, who opted for walk-in storage to make up for the lack of uppers. The pillshaped island is surprisingly spacious, as well: it houses a dishwasher, space for garbage and recycling and hidden shelving behind curvilinear doors. “There’s a comfortable flow of walking around the island; no harsh angles,” says Surby. The result is a space that is bright and calming but also practical: the perfect combo for a busy household.

J a n u a r y / F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 4 / westernliving.ca

Green Light

Sharon Litchfield

Surby chose Casson’s Babylon pendant planters to perform double duty: these high-gloss enamel lights can hold living plants, giving this modern space a wilder vibe.

westernliving.ca / J a n u a r y / F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 4

HOMES + DESIGN YES, CHEF!

Mindful Material To keep this kitchen within budget, Ford chose a composite material for the cabinets and integrated appliances. “It’s an ecofriendly material that’s lowmaintenance... it doesn’t mark up easily and it’s super hardy,” says the designer.

J a n u a r y / F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 4 / westernliving.ca

Use pendant lighting to bring interest to a cavernous space

Chris Amat

Designer Shaun Ford kept the colour palette rather neutral in this bachelor suite in Calgary’s Lower Mount Royal neighbourhood—the art and the architecture are the stars of the show. The client’s colourful collection of paintings gives the space a gallery vibe, and in the daytime, it’s not far off from holy. “With the vaulted ceiling and direct sunlight coming into the space, there’s a very unique, open, almost cathedral-like feel,” says Ford. To keep the space from feeling too stark, the designer chose to drop a large pendant light—a Modo chandelier from Roll and Hill—above the dining table. “It fills the space really beautifully,” says Ford. “It’s not super heavy feeling, but there’s a mass there that makes sense from a scale perspective.”

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HOMES + DESIGN YES, CHEF!

Out of the Woods The original red oak floors were stained ashen (and seamlessly repaired where the corridor wall was removed) while the pantry wall and ridged hood fan wall were clad in an ash featuring a lighter stain—but an earthy tone remains throughout. “Because there isn’t a huge differentiation between one surface to the next, it makes the space feel so much bigger,” says the designer.

J a n u a r y / F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 4 / westernliving.ca

Janis Nicolay

Look for storage solutions outside the kitchen This formerly dated ’90s walk-out overlooking Fish Creek Park in south Calgary featured a boxed-in kitchen accessed by a long, closed-off corridor that stretched from front door to back. By removing the hallway walls, architectural designer Jocelyn Ross of Jocelyn Ross Studioworks gained more than six and a half feet to create a 15-foot-long full-height pantry wall that houses the fridge, freezer, wine fridge, coffee bar and ample storage. “The corridor now becomes a functional space within the kitchen and opens up to that incredible view,” says Ross. In the expanded footprint, an island wrapped in Deep Blue quartzite serves as both kitchen table for up to five and prep space. “The owner also wanted a kitchen table in here, but I felt the room should be as airy as possible to take in the view—plus the dining room is so close,” says Ross. “We created an elegant eating space with waterfall edge on both ends while also showcasing the gorgeous quartzite from all entries into the kitchen.”

Rock and a Hard Place Quartzite is a softer material while Caesarstone is more durable, so the designer clad the island and hood fan wall’s backsplash in dramatic quartzite while working counters are treated in solidcoloured Wyndigo Caesarstone.

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HOMES + DESIGN YES, CHEF!

Lean into layers

J a n u a r y / F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 4 / westernliving.ca

Raise a Glass The proportions on the metal and glass doors for the counter-mounted cabinet were carefully considered and customized. “We kept the metal components as delicate in proportion as possible while ensuring their ability to still bear the tremendous weight of the cabinet,” says Colpitts.

Ema Peter

A kitchen can be objectively beautiful—but if it doesn’t feel like it represents you, can it ever truly be a space you enjoy? Such was the case with the previous incarnation of this North Vancouver kitchen, which designer Erica Colpitts renovated into a deeply personal reflection of the homeowner. “My client is warm and accomplished, and has enjoyed travelling around the world,” says Colpitts. “But the palette of the rooms in her home just didn’t match her personality and way of life.” And so in came layers on layers of rich texture, colour and materials to better represent the multifaceted beauty of a life well lived. The Calacatta Oro marble countertop plays off artfully muddy black millwork and textured white tile from Ann Sacks. A mix of metals—burnished brass, stainless steel, matte black—throughout the space brings a subtle eclectic touch. The homeowner’s handsome collection of ceramics (some nubbly, some glossy) sits proudly on the white oak shelving, while a custom riveted 3 Dimensions Ltd. hood fan takes its proportions from a well-designed handbag. “Each of these individually beautiful elements carefully complements one another,” says Colpitts. But, more importantly, they also complement the person who happily enjoys this striking space, day in and day out.

On Display Restoration Hardware pendant lights hang above a generously sized island. The shelves are peppered with ceramics, including work from Spanish studio Canoa Lab.

Prep in Style Colpitts describes the more casual prep kitchen as “a little surprise around the corner.” In this cozy space, wood shelves from Intempo Interiors bring warmth.

HOMES + DESIGN YES, CHEF!

J a n u a r y / F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 4 / westernliving.ca

Fresh Starts McKenney’s sustainable ethos shines through: the designer chose to repurpose and revamp existing elements from the original kitchen instead of starting from scratch. “We repainted all the cabinetry,” she explains. “And we kept the countertops and backsplash but upgraded all the hardware, lighting and flooring,” she explains. A reminder that transition doesn’t always mean a complete overhaul. “You don’t have to completely gut a space to achieve something very different,” she says.

Tracey Ayton

Take the time to choose the perfect white paint Dreaming of a white kitchen? Consider this your inspirational wake-up call. Victoria McKenney, principal at Vancouver’s Enviable Designs, embraced a pristine pallor to transform the kitchen in this 15-year-old Kerrisdale home into a timeless, beachy modern haven. But when it comes to picking that perfect pale palette, there’s more than meets the eye. “Choosing white is very hard. There is a variety of shades including cold whites, warm whites, yellow whites, green whites,” says McKenney, emphasizing the importance of testing the whites in the space itself. “You really do need to bring the colour samples into the home and look at it during the day and at night and see how it changes with the different light sources in the room.” Another consideration? The overall aesthetic. “I like to choose a warm white for a more traditional kitchen,” she explains. “For a more modern feel, I tend to choose a crisper white.” For this kitchen, the timeless quality of a soft crisp white— Benjamin Moore’s Simply White—strikes the perfect balance as a “neutral soft white with a clean crispness.” The takeaway? Choose your kitchen’s white shade wisely; like Goldilocks, don’t settle until it feels just right.

Pale in Comparison White kitchens often run the risk of feeling clinical. To avoid this sterility, McKenney recommends using contrast: “You’ll want to balance out the cooler colour tones by adding some warmth through natural materials.” Enter warm, white oak floors and modern white oak bar stools, along with large pendant lights with rope-like rose cords that offer a more subtle pop. And for a bigger switch-up? Dark slategrey cabinets on the island that boldly stand out against the white. It’s all about finding the perfect balance.

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HOMES + DESIGN YES, CHEF!

C w su

H • • • • •

Über Bench “The window bench is a really lovely feature from a functionality perspective,” says Melling. Bathed in natural light, this kitchen bench has plenty of built-in storage for the homeowners’ three young children.

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At first glance, this beautiful Vancouver kitchen reno by LM Studio looks as though it were crafted from only a couple of materials—and that’s exactly how founder and creative director Laura Melling likes it. “Our goal was to create a cohesive palette, to make it feel very minimal, welcome and clean,” says the designer. In reality, the kitchen was constructed from many different species of wood: the original Douglas fir floors were refinished, transforming them from an outdated dark orange to a surface that’s modern and airy; the integrated appliances were outfitted in white oak; the island was clad in oak tambour panels; the custom Lock and Mortice-made bar stools are ash. Through careful colourmatching, Melling and her team (as well as the folks at Box Construction and millworkers at Noanoko) created a kitchen that feels effortless—despite the immense effort put into it. 38

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Tina Kulic

Colour-match different wood species for a cohesive vibe

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RETREAT CENTRE 42

From gorgeous and green spaces to showers designed to take in the view, these bathing beauties are thoughtfully designed to celebrate plenty of “me” time. By Kerri Donaldson, Alyssa Hirose, Stacey McLachlan and Anicka Quin

J a n u a r y / F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 4 / westernliving.ca

Solid State The home itself is what Velji calls “new traditional”—warm and inviting, but design-forward, too. And this floating-sink statement piece is a perfect example of that: it’s a custom design that Velji created with Edmonton’s Phoenix Concrete Works.

Joel Klassen

Kick off your inspiration with a gorgeous tile This renovated bath in designer Alykhan Velji’s own Calgary bungalow serves as both a guest bathroom and a main-floor powder room—the latter making it, as Velji says, “a great place to have some fun with design.” And that’s just what he did—starting with that bold tile underfoot. “It’s a traditional paisley-like patterned tile that has beautiful tones of burnt orange and olive green,” he says. “It became the starting point for the palette for the bathroom.” That colour palette provides a perfect pairing to rectangular tiles on the tub surround and the walls, their irregular pattern appearing to be almost hand-mottled. Fixtures from Brizo in champagne bronze keep the space feeling warm with an element of tradition, too. “If you’re stuck in a renovation, start with a beautiful tile and pull colours from there to let it guide your space,” says Velji.

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Hide your unmentionables in plain sight There are a lot of surprises in this Hazel and Brown-designed Vancouver ensuite, to be sure. There’s the giant, backlit pink quartzite panel that overlooks the white bathtub; the Arabesque Carrara marble floor tiles that nod to the homeowners’ travels to Morocco; the playful wallpaper that lines the water closet. But designer Melanie Finkleman’s big reveal is those rectangular mirrors on the wall—they’re actually the fronts of custom medicine cabinets. “They’re recessed into the wall,” she explains. “But the wood frames really make them look like mirrors.”

J a n u a r y / F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 4 / westernliving.ca

Golden Glow Mixed metals bring a comfortable warmth here. Accessories are brass, while faucets are oil-brushed bronze. The whole home has a farmhouse-modern vibe, and that’s continued into the bathroom with shiplap on the walls and an industrial black grid frame on the shower door.

Ripple Effect

Jessica Davila

The fluted, white oak vanity brings the texture here. A cerused oak stain adds further depth. “It’s my favourite part of the room,” says Finkleman.

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License to Chill

Janis Nicolay

The homeowners chose to demo their original home and build new, but they preserved one key piece from the old house: the bathtub. McKay and her team at Pure Design had it refinished in a classic white—good as new.

J a n u a r y / F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 4 / westernliving.ca

Bring the drama with floor-to-ceiling tile “One side is the audience, the other side is the stage,” says Ami McKay with a laugh. The principal designer at Pure Design is referring to this stunning, green-tiled bathroom in Vancouver’s Douglas Park neighbourhood: the small step up to the bathtub, coupled with a gorgeous tile that extends past the vaulted ceiling, is inarguably eye-catching. “We tend to paint our ceilings white, but this creates intimacy,” says the designer. “It’s all about colour blocking with simple materials.” That said, the “audience” side of the bathroom works hard, too: a mirrored medicine cabinet provides generous storage, and white oak cabinetry brings an organic, natural element to the space.

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HOMES + DESIGN RETREAT CENTRE

Smoke Show The large bathroom was almost too cavernous, so the team at Knight Varga bumped out a column to create some definition, and chose a dark smoked glass for the shower to anchor the eye.

J a n u a r y / F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 4 / westernliving.ca

Janis Nicolay

Smart Seating A bench runs through the shower and out to the tub, creating a perfect ledge for plants (or a bathtime glass of wine).

Smart Storage The long Corian vanity is flanked by his-and-hers storage towers for optimal organization. While large slabs of Dekton line most of the room; a swath of Ann Sacks tiles brings in a hit of organic texture.

Get smart with your window choices In a Knight Varga project, natural light is always welcome... even in a home’s most intimate spaces. “This ensuite had ample light through large windows, which we loved; but we really had to think about privacy,” explains co-principal Trish Knight. Blinds would be impractical; drapes too, of course. So the design team went high-tech with their solution for this glass-box West Vancouver bathroom, installing smart glass that frosts over at the touch of a button. Now the homeowners can enjoy their oversized, smoked-glass shower (kitted out with dual handheld sprayers and a rain showerhead) and their modesty all in one go.

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Pattern Play The Mind the Gap wallpaper print is called “Out of This World” and features a delightfully chaotic pattern of vintage sci-fi graphics.

Dark Matters The millwork here is so dark brown, it’s almost black. On top, find a Caesarstone surface in Raven.

Design Trick There’s a sliver of mirror beneath the floating cabinet, creating the illusion that the piece is one big circle.

J a n u a r y / F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 4 / westernliving.ca

Janis Nicolay

Make the mirror the star

The powder room is the place to freshen up: to fix your hair; to check the ’fit. So why shouldn’t you go big with the mirror? (The fact that it can make a tiny room feel that much bigger is just a bonus.) Shannon Bradner of Vancouver’s HB Designs brought in a custom, oversized rounded mirror to anchor this Vancouver project, popping a floating wood vanity with Caesarstone countertop just below centre and installing the Watermark Brooklyn tap to protrude right out of the glass. The whole figure is backlit to give the room an enticing glow—otherworldly, in fact, when experienced in tandem with the quirky Mind the Gap wallpaper.

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HOMES + DESIGN RETREAT CENTRE

Curves Ahead The terracotta archway, painted in Benjamin Moore’s Mexican Tile, serves a dual purpose as storage for linens and bathing essentials and as a charming display to showcase family heirlooms. “There’s a real family heritage piece... that adds an eclectic feel,” says Ewanchyna.

J a n u a r y / F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 4 / westernliving.ca

Green Scene The emerald-green tiles in the steam shower (Oceani by Olympia Tile) envelop the space, offering an intimate enclave with a Moroccan touch. “It’s meant to feel warm and cozy with that handmade Moroccan feel,” says Ewanchyna. To enhance the spa-like ambiance, the shower is strategically positioned to capture expansive views through the bay windows. “The goal was to maximize their view from the windows—so we made it as large as we could and we angled the glass,” the designer says.

Matthew McMullen

Keep your loo out of view for a spa-like retreat

To help transition from Vancouver’s hustle to the serene countryside of Nova Scotia, a family of four enlisted the help of Andrea Ewanchyna of Vancouver’s Andreajae Studio to revamp their heritage home—including this primary ensuite, customized as an essential haven for parents of two young children. Central to that retreat is the clawfoot tub, strategically placed to capture panoramic views of the sprawling acreage through three large bay windows. But the concealed toilet room became an unsung hero, maintaining the room’s spa-like charm. “It’s a very European concept, which the clients adored,” says Ewanchyna. Hidden behind a pocket door opposite the vanity, the toilet stays out of sight, allowing the tub and breathtaking views outside to shine. The room’s colour scheme brought in natural deep, earthy hues like terracotta and emerald, alongside a bit of opulence in gold accents on the tub’s lion feet and the perforated pendant light. “It radiates warmth and adds a unique texture,” notes Ewanchyna. The design triumphs in optimizing natural light through a well-planned layout. “Aligning the vanity with the windows not only maximizes lighting but also bridges the indoors with the outdoors,” says the designer. The centrally placed bathtub and steam shower enhance natural light, melding the space with the scenic outdoors. “It’s about balancing indoor comfort with the beauty of nature, making every moment feel like a retreat,” she adds.

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HOMES + DESIGN RETREAT CENTRE

Don’t be afraid to blend design eras

Feeling Blue The gorgeous rich-blue tile is from Ann Sacks; the flooring is smoked oak boards.

J a n u a r y / F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 4 / westernliving.ca

Tina Kulic

It’s easy to think that the powder room in this Vancouver home could sit in one of the turnof-the-century originals that pepper its Shaughnessy neighbourhood: that richly veined marble and walnut vanity, the Morris and Co. wallpaper, the gilded mirror. And that’s exactly the feeling that the homeowner was looking for. He’d raised his kids in a ’60s-era home on the same lot, but really wanted to build one of the Shaughnessy Tudors the neighbourhood is known for. New builds can feel like they’re faking it if they’re not designed with a deft hand— and that’s where the team from Kelly Deck Design came in. “You’re not trying to create a time capsule,” says Deck. “You want the home to look as if it was collected over multiple decades.” That mix of eras shown here—from the Arts and Crafts-inspired tile on the walls to the classic English washbasin sink to the art nouveau pendant lights—creates a space that feels like it’s been offering the same sense of warmth and welcome for nearly a century.

Under Cover The window coverings are actually two layers: there’s a sheer closest to the window, and a silk covering in front with an embroidered ribbon lining its edges. “It speaks to the Arts and Crafts aesthetic of the room,” says Deck.

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A Spectacular Whistler Chalet in the Woods

This collaboration between designer Andrea McLean and architect Howard Airey is what happens when beach house dreams come true. By Stacey McLachlan / Photos by Ema Peter

UNDER THE BIG SKY 56

J a n u a r y / F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 4 / westernliving.ca

Doors Open Linden Construction designed the exterior folding wood screens (opposite page). “I love working with millwork as a solution that does more than open to storage,” says McLean. “It can mask or conceal oddities in walls, or conceal venting and mechanical systems or lighting.”

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HOMES + DESIGN UNDER THE BIG SKY

Vintage Meets Modern The one piece of furniture the homeowners brought from their previous space is the walnut buffet that sits in the dining room. Under the Lock and Mortice walnut table, find a rug sourced by the homeowners on a trip to Morocco mid-build. The Andlight Spotlight Volumes pendants that hang above the table tie into the room’s artisanal vibe. The dining chairs are Audo.

J a n u a r y / F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 4 / westernliving.ca

“Watching curtains blow in the wind reminds me of bamboo in Japan,” says McLean.

S Sometimes, the person is right, and the timing is wrong. This is the moral of 50 percent of rom-coms, but also for one spectacular design project in the Kits Point neighbourhood of Vancouver. Interior designer Andrea McLean was not particularly surprised when several years ago a design-industry acquaintance met with her about a potential project and then nothing came of it. Such is the life of interior designers: most consultation calls are just exploratory. But a few years later, she got another call from that same acquaintance—he had kept McLean’s name in his back pocket, and was now ready to commit to building his once-in-a-lifetime home with her help. “This house was a dream for him and his wife—something they’d been planning a long, long time,” says McLean. The couple had been plotting and saving to tackle this project with zero compromises, and McLean was a key part of the plan. So too was storied architect Howard Airey and his firm the Airey Group. This is where we leave the rom-com analogy and move into an “assemble the dream team” sort of montage. While Airey and McLean made a wonderful pair, the homeowners were vital collaborators, too. And the fact that they were involved in the design world made them more patient in that collaboration than most clients are, with a first-hand understanding of just how much construction can cost (in time and money). “Clients new to the custom residential process can be shocked,” says McLean. “Sometimes, as a designer, you have to be the bearer of bad news. It can be disheartening to have to share how much projects can cost and how long it’s going to take. But with these clients, we didn’t have to cushion the blow. We could just focus on design.”

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HOMES + DESIGN UNDER THE BIG SKY

Their guiding star for that design was the idea of an Australian beach house. “We ran every decision through that filter,” says McLean. Conceptual images from the homeowners included many Aussie projects, all ones that felt comfortable, natural and forgiving. So McLean and Airey set out to create a space that was open and airy, yet connected to the ground: embracing the sunshine and wind, and making the most out of a proximity to the beach and ocean air. “Kits Point has a very specific sense of place,” says Airey. “You sense the beach, even though you’re not exactly there.” No wonder, then, that the home wound up with the nickname “Big Sky Beach House.” The three-storey, 2,400-square-foot home was spacious, but the site offered some challenges in terms of achieving the floor plan they wanted. The standard 33-foot lot sat at the bottom of a T-shaped intersection, which sparked some concerns about privacy and oncoming headlights. The magic fix was a clever decision to swap the programming of the levels: bedrooms are now on the ground floor, hugged by a protective garden. Perched above it is a spacious second-storey living area that takes advantage of sweeping views—to the north, the sea; to the west, Kits Beach. “With this reserve plan, the open second floor isn’t impacted by an entry and mudroom. It gets you off the street to pick up some views,” notes Airey. “You might’ve been able to get in a third bedroom with a different plan, but with this layout, the livability is way, way higher.” Natural wood screens on the south-facing facade provide an additional layer of security and privacy (and give the home a distinctive street presence). “You can look at the narrowness as a challenge or an opportunity,” says Airey. “If you start considering it as a wide townhouse, it changes your whole perspective.” Pop a few windows on the side, create a courtyard to let the light in to the main floor, and suddenly things don’t feel quite so cramped. At the very top of the house is a smaller third floor, with roof decks on either side. The north-facing patio is designed with dining in mind, while the south-facing deck is ideal for taking in the late-day sun. The room between is what the homeowners call “the lookout,” outfitted with a linen Montauk sofa, linen wrap-around drapery and a television.

J a n u a r y / F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 4 / westernliving.ca

Cozy Corner McLean had worked with the Beam sofa from Cassina for a previous project, so when this client requested it, she knew it would hit that sweet spot of relaxed style in the living room (above). The positioning of the piece was key: somehow, sitting on the sofa affords a view of the fireplace, the TV, the garden and the kitchen with minimal swivelling. “Creating a space that felt connected was paramount,” says McLean.

Take a Seat The pillows on the sofa are from Provide (left). A fig plant and Salari rug bring a natural warmth. Audo coffee tables are designed simply, using one material. Millwork in the living room conceals the AV accessories. And the three-sided fireplace has a concrete hearth: modern but still tactile, a space to prop baskets or pottery, or to take a seat.

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HOMES + DESIGN UNDER THE BIG SKY

J a n u a r y / F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 4 / westernliving.ca

Mixed Materials Corian is one of the only materials you can invisibly seam, which makes for an impeccable countertop finish. Lauten Woodworking works with wood and Corian, so the firm was an important collaborator in the execution of this design vision. “Ensuring we had the right people to execute the client’s vision was key,” says McLean.

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HOMES + DESIGN UNDER THE BIG SKY

The Inner Sanctum The bedroom is also in natural materials, from the upholstered bed to the integrated walnut bedside tables (above). Wall-mounted lights have “almost a pottery feeling,” says McLean. The primary ensuite and bedroom dressing area are connected by series of pocket doors (left and right). “It’s a series of zones, and you can control which you want open and what you want closed,” says McLean. When there are so many different multiple ways to enter and exit a room, to retrace your steps, it feels “bigger,” the designer explains. “Compared to a space with a single door where you are forced to retrace your steps and leave the same way you entered, this can make a space feel small, and repetitive.” In the ensuite, the homeowners get ready at matching white sinks; the Corian countertop is razor thin here. The freestanding tub (white, of course) is from Blu Bathworks—it’s a sculptural beauty from a resin product.

J a n u a r y / F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 4 / westernliving.ca

Indoors and Out In the lookout (below) sits a Montauk sofa in linen. The same material runs from the ceiling to the exterior soffit.

To achieve a casual feeling in Big Sky, the design team had to work within some surprisingly strict parameters. “One of the guidelines that the homeowner was very particular about was that all the plumbing had to be white: taps, showerheads,” says McLean. Appliances, too, were designated to be white or hidden. “For me, in modern design, restraint is what you’re after, which is different from austere,” explains McLean. “If you could do a home in one material, that would be the ultimate exercise in restraint.” This can be hard to achieve, though, when you’re designing a kitchen, where necessity calls for many different products and materials. They got as close as possible, with a consistent language of flat-cut walnut millwork throughout the home: everything matches, from the bathroom vanity to the front door. McLean and the homeowners were looking for a handmade look: Lauten Woodworking sourced extra-thick veneer and then wire-brushed the face so it looked and felt more like a textured piece of wood. “We were looking for a tactile experience; we didn’t want consistency in colour and tone, we wanted a one-of-a-kind look from board to board,” she says. All that warm millwork contrasts beautifully against crisp whites everywhere else. (The Corian countertop is white; ditto the integrated Corian sinks.) The flooring has a unique texture, too. They poured a concrete floor, then ground off a deep layer to expose the aggregate inside. “There are little stones in there that give it a beach look,” says McLean. The window coverings in Big Sky might seem like a finishing touch, but McLean actually sees the linen drapes from Cloth Studio as pivotal to the project. “They’re that fifth element,” she says. When all the sliding doors are open, the linens blow in the breeze. “Being able to see the wind just makes you feel cool; it gives it a sensibility of a coastal location.” The homeowners can adapt the windows as needed, opening the drapery or screens in mix-and-match configurations. It’s a house that was years in the making—first, in the homeowners’ minds and hearts, and then through the inevitable construction slog—but today it invites anyone who steps through its doors to be fully present. After nearly a decade of will-they-won’t-they, these Vancouverites have found the One.

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Apple Caramel Cake with Oatmeal Cookie Crumble ,

Gutter Credit

see page 73 for recipe.

J a n u a r y / F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 4 / westernliving.ca

Take the Cake

These gorgeous, colourful, party-ready (and plant-based!) cakes from Vancouver baker Lyndsay Sung are worth celebrating in and of themselves. Recipes and Photos by Lyndsay Sung

Excerpted from Plantcakes by Lyndsay Sung. Copyright © 2023 Lyndsay Sung. Photographs by Lyndsay Sung. Published by Appetite by Random House®, a division of Penguin Random House Canada Limited. Reproduced by arrangement with the publisher. All rights reserved.

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Gutter Credit

FOOD + TRAVEL TAKE THE CAKE

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Black Sesame Brittle Cake with Coconut Swiss Meringue Buttercream Makes one 7-inch, 3-layer cake The brittle is very addictive, reminiscent of the sticky-sweet but satisfyingly crisp Sesame Snaps we ate as kids. Crush a portion of the brittle up into textural crumbs of varying sizes to press into the buttercream layers for even more crunch. Look for toasted black sesame seeds at your local Asian supermarkets, or online with the usual suspects.

Black sesame cake ½ cup toasted black sesame seeds ¼ cup light corn syrup ¼ cup pure maple syrup 2 cups cake flour ¾ cup finely ground toasted black sesame seeds 2 tsp baking powder ¾ tsp fine sea salt ½ tsp baking soda ¾ cup unsalted plant-based butter, at room temperature 1¼ cups granulated white sugar 1 tsp pure vanilla extract 1 cup full-fat coconut milk

Simple vanilla syrup 1 cup granulated white sugar 1 cup water 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

Black sesame brittle 1½ cups granulated white sugar 2 tbsp water ¾ cup toasted black sesame seeds Pinch of sea salt

Filling and frosting 1 recipe coconut Swiss meringue buttercream (see page 74)

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Prepare three 7-inch round cake pans by spritzing them with vegetable oil and lining with parchment circles cut to size, and then spritzing again with oil to prevent sticking. In a food processor, combine the toasted sesame seeds, corn syrup and maple syrup and blend into a paste. In a medium bowl, whisk together the cake flour, ground black sesame seeds, baking powder, salt and baking soda. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the butter, sugar, sesame paste and vanilla extract on high speed to combine, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. With the mixer on low speed, alternate between adding the flour mixture and the coconut milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed until a batter forms (15 to 30 seconds). Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Give the pans a light tap on the counter to reduce any air bubbles. Bake for 22 to 24 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the centre of the cake comes out with only moist crumbs. Set the pans on top of wire racks and let the cakes cool completely.

In a small saucepan set over medium-high heat, heat the sugar and water, allowing the sugar to dissolve and the mixture to reduce (5 to 10 minutes). Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let cool completely before using. The syrup can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. For the sesame brittle, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. In a medium saucepan set over medium-high heat, combine the sugar and water. Heat the mixture until it turns a dark amber colour and registers 300°F on a candy thermometer (8 to 10 minutes, depending on your stovetop). Remove the mixture from the heat and carefully stir in the sesame seeds and salt. Working quickly, pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading in an even layer. Allow to harden and cool for about 5 minutes, then add an even, light sprinkle of flaky sea salt. Let cool completely (about 30 minutes) before breaking into fragments and brittle crumbs. Fill and frost the cake to the final frost stage using the coconut Swiss meringue buttercream. Add the vanilla simple syrup to the cake layers as you build the cake. Crush up some of the brittle into little pieces and then sprinkle it on the coconut buttercream layers, pressing it into the buttercream. Press black sesame brittle fragments onto the sides and top of the cake.

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FOOD + TRAVEL TAKE THE CAKE

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Pistachio Cake with Strawberry Swiss Meringue Buttercream Makes one 9-inch single-layer cake Finely ground toasted pistachios sifted with cake flour gives this beautifully nutty single-layer fancy cake its flavour. Swiss meringue strawberry buttercream is then piped on top using a large multi-pronged star tip, and the whole cake is dotted with fresh berries of all kinds, along with whole pistachios and chopped sprinkled pistachios, if you so desire.

Pistachio cake ½ cup soy milk 1 tsp apple cider vinegar 1 cup finely ground shelled toasted pistachios (you can use a food processor for the grinding) 1½ cups cake flour 1 tsp baking powder ¾ tsp fine sea salt ½ tsp baking soda ½ cup unsalted plant-based butter, at room temperature 1¼ cups granulated white sugar ¼ cup vegan sour cream 1 tsp pure vanilla extract 1 tsp pistachio or almond extract

Simple vanilla syrup 1 cup granulated white sugar 1 cup water 1 tsp pure vanilla extract (substitute almond or pistachio extract, if desired)

Filling and frosting ½ recipe strawberry Swiss meringue buttercream (see page 74) Fresh strawberries, sliced raspberries, blueberries and gooseberries (optional) Fresh mint (optional) Whole pistachios

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Prepare a 9-inch round cake pan by spritzing it with vegetable oil and lining with a parchment paper circle, and then spritzing again to prevent sticking. In a small bowl, mix the soy milk with the apple cider vinegar and set aside for 10 minutes to thicken. It may look a bit separated at this point, but that’s normal. In a medium bowl, whisk together the ground pistachios, cake flour, baking powder, salt and baking soda. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat together the butter, sugar, sour cream, vanilla extract and pistachio or almond extract on medium speed until combined (about 30 seconds). With the mixer turned off, add the flour mixture, then pulse to combine. Slowly pour in the soy milk mixture and mix on low speed to combine until a batter forms (15 to 30 seconds). Add the batter to the prepared cake pan, using an offset spatula to level and smooth the top. Give the pan a light tap on the counter to reduce any air bubbles. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the centre of the cake comes out with only moist crumbs. Set the pan on a wire rack and let the cake cool completely.

Combine the sugar and water in a small saucepan set over medium-high heat, allowing the sugar to dissolve and the mixture to reduce (5 to 10 minutes). Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let cool completely before using. The syrup can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Remove the cooled cake from the pan. Using a pastry brush or a teaspoon, spread a generous amount of the vanilla syrup across the top of the cake. Dollop a generous amount of strawberry buttercream onto the centre of the cake. Using your small offset spatula, frost toward the edges of the cake, leaving a half-inch of bare cake around the edge. Fit a piping bag with a large open star tip and fill the bag with the remaining buttercream. Pipe drop stars in a circle around the border of the cake, working your way inward in circles until the entire cake is covered in piped stars. Alternate between adding sliced strawberries (and any other berry you might like) and whole pistachios to the centre of each drop star. Crush up some more pistachios and sprinkle on top. Decorate further with additional berries and mint, if desired.

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Cookies and Cream Cake Makes one 7-inch, 3-layer cake This cookies and cream cake does not hold back on the use of Oreos—they’re chopped up into the buttercream layers and sprinkled and placed in between piped buttercream dollops, combined with dark chocolate cake layers and creamy vanilla buttercream.

Dark chocolate cake 3 cups all-purpose flour 2 cups granulated white sugar 2 tsp baking soda 1 tsp kosher salt 1½ cups boiling water 1 tbsp instant espresso granules ⅔ cup Dutch-process cocoa powder 1 cup vegetable oil 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract ¼ cup apple cider vinegar

Filling and frosting 1 recipe vanilla buttercream (see page 74) 24 Oreo cookies, chopped into various sizes

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Apple Caramel Cake with Oatmeal Cookie Crumble Makes one 7-inch, 3-layer cake. (See photo page 66). Preheat the oven to 350°F. Prepare three 7-inch round cake pans by spritzing them with vegetable oil and lining with parchment paper circles cut to size, and then spritzing again with oil to prevent sticking. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, whisk the flour, sugar, baking soda and salt until combined. Switch to the paddle attachment. In a large bowl, combine the boiling water and espresso powder and whisk to combine. Whisk in the cocoa powder until combined. Whisk in the vegetable oil and vanilla extract. (Don’t worry if it won’t emulsify completely; it will all come together!) Add the wet mixture to the bowl of the stand mixer and mix on low speed for about 20 seconds to combine. Add the apple cider vinegar and mix for another 15 seconds or until the batter is smooth, scraping down the sides of the bowl if needed. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Give the pans a light tap on the counter to reduce any air bubbles. Bake for 22 to 25 minutes, until the cake springs back to the touch and a toothpick inserted in the centre comes back with only moist crumbs. Frost the cake using the vanilla buttercream to the final frost stage. To fill the cake layers, pipe a thick layer of the buttercream on each layer first, then press in chopped-up Oreo cookie pieces in even intervals, pushing them down into the buttercream. Add another thin layer of buttercream over the Oreo pieces before placing the next layer of cake carefully on top. Decorate the top of the cake with a piped spiral border or an artful array of piped dollops, drop stars and chopped Oreo pieces in varying sizes, or a border of piped buttercream dollops alternating with whole sandwich cookies.

In this recipe, freshly grated apple cake and caramel buttercream team up with oatmeal cookie crumbles to create a perfect fall vibes cake. Bonus: leftover oatmeal cookie crumbles are a sheer delight layered in yogurt parfaits or liberally sprinkled on top of ice cream.

Apple cake 2½ cups all-purpose flour 2 tsp baking powder 1 tsp baking soda ¾ tsp fine sea salt 2 tsp ground cinnamon 1 cup vegetable oil ½ cup unsweetened applesauce ¾ cup light brown sugar ½ cup granulated white sugar 2 tsp pure vanilla extract 2 cups grated apple

Divide the cake batter evenly between the prepared pans. Give the pans a light tap on the counter to reduce any air bubbles. Bake for 22 to 25 minutes, until the cake edges are lightly browned, the cake springs back to the touch and a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out with only moist crumbs. Set the pans on wire racks and let the cakes cool completely.

Oatmeal cookie crumbles

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

5 tbsp granulated white sugar ¾ cup rolled oats ⅓ cup all-purpose flour ½ tsp fine sea salt 4 tbsp unsalted plant-based butter, at room temperature, cut into cubes

In a medium bowl, whisk together the sugar, rolled oats, flour and salt. Sprinkle in the butter, toss to coat, and then mix until well incorporated. Using a spatula, spread the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in an even layer. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, until golden brown and crisp. Let cool completely in its pan set on top of a wire rack.

Frosting 1 recipe salted caramel buttercream (see page 74) Preheat the oven to 350°F. Prepare three 7-inch round cake pans by spritzing them with vegetable oil and lining with parchment paper circles cut to size. Spray again with oil to prevent sticking. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt and cinnamon. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the vegetable oil, applesauce, brown sugar, white sugar and vanilla extract on medium speed until smooth (about 1 minute). With the mixer on low speed, add the dry ingredients, mixing until combined (15 to 30 seconds). Fold in the grated apple.

Once cooled, break up into cookie crumbles with your hands or lightly bash it with a rolling pin. Fill and frost the cake using the salted caramel buttercream. While building the cake layers, follow the dugout pool method, carving out a small pool in the centre of the buttercream and adding some extra salted caramel to the layers. Continue on until the final frost stage. Decorate the cake with a piped salted caramel buttercream border on top, or an artful array of piped dollops or drop stars. You can also add drips of salted caramel to the outside of the cake. To preserve maximum crispness, add the oatmeal cookie crumbles in various-sized pieces to the top of the cake just before serving.

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FOOD + TRAVEL TAKE THE CAKE

Buttercream Bonanza

Three dreamy plant-based frosting recipes to top any cake.

Coconut Swiss Meringue Buttercream or Strawberry Swiss Meringue Buttercream 2 18-oz cans unsalted chickpeas 1 cup granulated white sugar 1 cup icing sugar, sifted ½ tsp cream of tartar

Vanilla Buttercream 2 cups unsalted plant-based butter, at room temperature 3 cups icing sugar, sifted 2 tsp pure vanilla extract Pinch of salt, plus more to taste In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the butter on high speed until doubled in volume for about 1 minute, using a spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. With the mixer turned off, add the icing sugar, vanilla extract and salt. Pulse on low speed to gently combine without causing a dust storm. Once combined, increase to high speed and beat until the frosting is fluffy and creamy (another 1 to 2 minutes). Store any leftover buttercream in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.

Coconut option 2 cups unsalted plant-based butter, at room temperature 1 tsp pure vanilla extract 6 tbsp coconut cream Pinch of salt

Strawberry option 2 cups unsalted plant-based butter, at room temperature ½ cup freeze-dried strawberries, powdered Pinch of salt Pour the chickpeas and their liquid into a strainer set over a medium bowl, straining the aquafaba liquid into the bowl. Reserve the chickpeas for another use. Transfer the aquafaba liquid to a small saucepan set over medium-high heat. Bring the aquafaba to a low boil (watching that it doesn’t boil over), then turn the heat down to low. Simmer the aquafaba until it is reduced by approximately half—you want to end up with roughly 1 cup of reduced aquafaba. This could take up to 15 minutes.

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Transfer the aquafaba to a heatproof liquid measuring cup or container. Refrigerate, covered, for at least 2 hours to jell. When reduced aquafaba is refrigerated, it takes on a thick, gelatinous consistency. It will be a golden colour and it may separate a bit, and that’s all normal. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, beat the chilled aquafaba on low speed for 3 minutes. Increase the speed to medium-high and whip for 3 more minutes. In a small bowl, sift the icing sugar and cream of tartar together. Add the mixture to the stand mixer, 1 tbsp at a time, and continue whipping until the meringue has thickened into glossy, firm peaks. This may take up to 15 minutes. Leave the meringue in the bowl of the stand mixer, and continue with the method of the buttercream recipe you’re using. For Coconut: With the meringue in the bowl of the stand mixer, switch to the paddle attachment. With the mixer on low speed, add the butter. Add the coconut cream, 1 tbsp at a time, and the salt after the vanilla extract. Mix to combine for about 1 minute, using a spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. For Strawberry: With the meringue in the bowl of the stand mixer, switch to the paddle attachment. With the mixer on low speed, add the butter. Add the powdered freeze-dried strawberries and salt after the butter. Mix for another minute to combine, using a spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Salted Caramel Buttercream 1¾ cups unsalted plant-based butter, at room temperature 2 cups icing sugar, sifted, plus more as needed 2 tsp pure vanilla extract

Salted caramel 1 cup granulated white sugar 2 tbsp corn syrup 2 tbsp water ½ cup plant milk 2 tbsp unsalted plant-based butter 1 tsp pure vanilla extract 1 tsp fine sea salt Start by making the salted caramel. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt the sugar, corn syrup and water over high heat until the sugar has dissolved. Let the mixture boil without stirring until it reaches a medium amber colour (about 10 minutes). Remove from the heat and carefully whisk in the plant milk (it will bubble up ferociously, so go slowly). Whisk in the butter, vanilla extract and salt. Let cool completely; it will thicken as it cools. (You will need ¾ cup of salted caramel for the buttercream, plus more for decorating the cake with caramel drips. Leftover caramel will keep in the fridge for up to 2 weeks—it is delicious drizzled on ice cream or stirred into yogurt.) In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the butter, icing sugar, vanilla extract, and ¾ cup of the salted caramel on low speed to combine, using a spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. Turn the mixer to medium-high speed and beat until light and fluffy (about 1 minute). If the frosting seems too loose, add 1 tbsp of icing sugar at a time to thicken it until it is creamy and spreadable, being careful not to over-sweeten.

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Braised Lamb Shanks with Minty Pea Purée/Roasted Eggplant with Lentils, Goat Cheese and Romesco: photo by Clinton Hussey

China Before Communism

A Performance That Truly Matters This is What You’ve Been Waiting for See the magnificence of China before communism. It’s a journey that will fill you with hope and inspiration—one you’ve longed for. Discover 5,000 years of wisdom, beauty, and wonder, live on stage.

“A life-affirming and life-changing experience.” —Stage Whispers ALL-NEW PROGRAM FROM NEW YORK • WITH LIVE ORCHESTRA

Mar 20-25 | Queen Elizabeth Theatre | 1-877-663-7469, 604-757-0355

Round-trip shuttle service is available for matinee shows from Tsawwassen and Horseshoe Bay ferry terminals, Chilliwack, Abbotsford, Langley, and White Rock.

ShenYun.com/Van Presented by Falun Dafa Association of Vancouver

BUY TICKETS Save Fees with Code: WL24

FOOD + TRAVEL BROOKLYN

BROOKLYN

LIKE A LOCAL

iStock

In New York City’s hippest and most populated borough, there’s history (and elite eats) on every corner. By Gerald Narciso

ure, the cliché New York City experience lies in Manhattan. Iconic landmarks like Central Park, Times Square and the Empire State Building are seared into our memories from TV and movies. But the neighbouring borough directly across the East River offers arguably more chic alternatives for restaurants, architecture, museums, shopping and art. The heartbeat of Brooklyn, New York, can be felt through a simple stroll. A walk down Court Street in Cobble Hill uncovers an abundance of charming brownstones and café storefronts. On Bedford Avenue in trendy Williamsburg, fashionistas clutching large tote bags and walking small dogs whisk past brick-and-mortars that rival SoHo. A-listers like Emily Blunt and Daniel Craig nonchalantly walk past or alongside you on the subways and in the Trader Joes. The vibes and culture in Brooklyn are so immaculate and original that venturing over to Manhattan is hardly even necessary.

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FOOD + TRAVEL BROOKLYN

itinerary 9:00 A.M. L TRAIN

Outside the muted blue industrial Devoción Coffee in the heart of Williamsburg, a yellow sidewalk sign boasts “The Only Fresh Coffee in NYC (Really).” The bold marketing, however, has some merit. The Colombian-owned café adopts a unique farm-to-table model, sourcing fresh coffee beans in just 10 days (versus the 180-day industry average). Devoción offers an assortment of creative drinks and pastries, but a classic Americano ($3.75) paired with a guava croissant ($5) will not disappoint. Towers of green plants adorn the brick walls, and brown leather chesterfield sofas complete the loft ambiance. devocion.com

10:00 A.M. 2

Q TRAINS

In the bustling Park Slope neighbourhood, even the busiest of locals carve out time inside the lush green spaces in Prospect Park. A giant arc at Grand Army Plaza conjures up Parisian vibes and greets you into this 526-acre oasis where Brooklynites cycle through the picturesque loop, play lawn games on the endless grass at the Long Meadow or admire the still elegance of the Boathouse. Directly adjacent to Prospect Park are the revered Brooklyn Museum, Central Library and Brooklyn Botanic Garden.

A Walk in the Park Clockwise from top: the brick-covered and buzzy interior of Devoción Coffee; the statement-making Grand Army Plaza arc at Prospect Park’s entrance; the Boathouse in Prospect Park; the serene Brooklyn Botanic Garden; the Brooklyn Museum; one more snapshot from Devoción Coffee: spot the guava croissant.

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Devoción Coffee: Liz Clayman; Grand Army Plaza and Boathouse: iStock; Brooklyn Botanic Garden: Michael Stewart

prospectpark.org

Bridges and Bites Clockwise from top left: Jane’s Carousel at Brooklyn Bridge Park; the iconic Brooklyn Bridge walk; the dogfriendly patio at Fornino Pier 6; Faun restaurant’s sweetpotato agnolotti with black truffle and crème fraîche.

3:00 P.M. F

C TRAINS

Speaking of the ’gram, you know that familiar cobblestone street in Brooklyn where the ManTop and bottom right: Alexa Hoyer/Brooklyn Bridge Park; Top right: iStock

12:00 P.M. 2

hattan Bridge, sandwiched between red brick buildings, meets the horizon and every tourist

4 TRAINS

A stroll in the park is sure to work up an appetite.

and their dog (literally) take selfies? Yeah, that’s

A 10-minute walk to Faun in nearby Prospect

the Dumbo neighbourhood. After you get the

Heights is worth the extra steps. The rustic

obligatory shot out of the way, venture over to

exterior has character and the cozy backyard

nearby Brooklyn Bridge Park to ride the magical

patio makes for ideal Instagram moments, but

Jane’s Carousel and grab the Lombardi pizza

the Italian-inspired brunch menu is the head-

($22) at the iconic Fornino Pier 6 or two scoops

liner. The French toast ($16) is the go-to for

of peaches and cream ice cream ($8.50) at the

those who prioritize sweet. For the savoury

Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory. If there’s any

palate, the campanelle pasta ($23) features a

battery left in those legs, a trek across the

flavourful pork sausage. The vermouth-powered

Brooklyn Bridge is a memorable experience.

Shandy, You’re a Fine Girl ($15) is the appropri-

fornino.com; brooklynicecreamfactory.com;

ate early afternoon adult beverage. faun.nyc

brooklynbridgepark.org

westernliving.ca / J a n u a r y / F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 4

2023-11-10 10:32 AM

FOOD + TRAVEL BROOKLYN

7:00 P.M. G TRAIN

The historic Polish neighbourhood of Greenpoint—which is quickly gentrifying—is also home to one of the most sought-after newer restaurants, Oxomoco. Mexican-inspired and Michelin-starred, the five-year-old establishment is aesthetically gorgeous: a spectacularly lit wood-panelled bar and the Southern California decor are easy on the eyes. The wood-burning oven is responsible for some of the most coveted and chef-curated dishes: the beet “chorizo” tacos ($17), the sweet potato tlayuda ($20) and the grilled Berkshire pork chop ($55). Leaving Oxomoco without trying the fan-fave soymarinated tuna tostada ($25) would be criminal. oxomoconyc.com

9:30 P.M. L TRAIN

For hand-crafted cocktail connoisseurs who wish to be in the presence of the cool kids, Williamsburg is the place for a proper nightcap. If you can brave the ever-present line, Fresh Kills Bar serves colourful cocktails made with housemade syrups and fresh ingredients that are sometimes served in eclectic tropical mugs. If dramatic NYC views are more your vibe, venture to the Westlight rooftop bar at the ultrabougie William Vale Hotel. Imagine sipping on a bergamot-spiced Magic Hour cocktail ($20) from a rooftop terrace while staring at the Manhattan skyline around beautiful people who look important. Life is good. freshkillsbar.com; westlightnyc.com

Bar None From top to bottom: the beautiful bar at Michelin-starred Oxomoco; Westlight rooftop bar’s stunning views; Fresh Kills Bar and a cheeky, colourful cocktail it serves.

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Chill Space From top to bottom: The Hoxton boutique hotel; the splurge-worthy 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge; the vintage and stylish digs at the Ace Hotel.

Concrete Jungle Where to stay in Brooklyn Hipster Heaven Located in the hipster-heavy Williamsburg, the Hoxton is a boutique hotel right in the mix of the culture. Inside, the industrial building is open and minimalist. The rooms are functional and well stocked with mezcal and carefully curated snacks. The Hoxton offers free use of its bikes so you can easily venture to cafés, restaurants and Domino Park. It’s impossible to run out of things to do around Brooklyn, but just in case, there is a pristine pool on the hotel’s roof. 97 Wythe Ave.; thehoxton.com/williamsburg

Gorgeous and Green To lay your head at the eco-chic 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge does not come cheap, but the comfort, location and views might justify the splurge. After a long and arduous flight to NYC, it’s a relief to enter a lobby that joins green oasis with mountain cabin (if the cabin was five-star). The indoor greenery matches the neighbourhood’s lush appeal, as the stylish Brooklyn Bridge Park is steps away. It’s not all nature, though: the rooftop pool and rooms that face west give you unobstructed views of Lower Manhattan, the East River and the Statue of Liberty. 60 Furman St.; 1hotels.com/brooklyn-bridge

In the Heart of BK Just off bustling Atlantic Avenue in the Boerum Hill neighbourhood and within reasonable proximity of downtown, the Ace Hotel Brooklyn simultaneously blends in and stands out. Style-savvy travellers are well aware of the iconic Ace Hotel collection, which includes locations in Portland and Los Angeles. Thoughtful vintage decor and cozy lounging and eating spaces are part of the hotel’s charm. Outside the front doors of its gritty red brick facade you’ll find a plethora of food, shopping and entertainment options, including Barclays Center, home of the NBA’s Brooklyn Nets. 252 Schermerhorn St.; acehotel .com/brooklyn

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2023-11-10 10:32 AM

2 14 Peaks

1 Biking

Nothing is impossible: I started my own studio late in my career, and this documentary and book by Nirmal Purja provided me with immense inspiration. It’s truly motivating how Purja achieved supposedly impossible missions—summiting all 14 of the world’s 8,000metre mountains—in just over six months. When I encounter obstacles or need an unconventional approach to design, Purja’s book reminds me not to let others tell me it’s not possible.

Having lived in various cities worldwide, including Los Angeles, Vienna, Shanghai and Vancouver, I prefer getting around on a bike. It gives me a unique perspective of the city and lets me explore different corners of each place. I also appreciate the design of bikes, with various geometries for different types of bikes. The combination of aesthetic and function in bikes is a testament to modern-day genius in product design.

Architect

Alan Hung on the 6 Things That Keep Him

When I’m stuck in my work, I enjoy listening to Amy Devers’s podcast, Clever. She interviews designers and entrepreneurs (like designer Bryan Costello, pictured above) who share their career journeys and experiences. Hearing their success stories encourages me to keep going in my own journey.

4 Café Sperl Having a good cup of coffee boosts my creativity. When I lived in Vienna, my favourite spot for a cup of coffee was Café Sperl. This café has long been a hub where artists, architects, writers and many other creatives socialize and spark new ideas. I enjoy both brainstorming with friends and sitting alone, sketching out new designs.

J a n u a r y / F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 4 / westernliving.ca

6 Montiverdi Estates

Kōdai-ji Temple Japanese gardens provide me with a sense of peace, almost like meditation; they clear my mind. During my visit to Kyoto, I was captivated by the beautiful garden at Kōdai-ji Temple, which features styles like a rock garden, a tsukiyama-style garden and a bamboo grove. As I strolled through the garden, I felt like time had stopped, offering a break from the busy world we face every day. It was like hitting a reset button to get rid of negative energy.

For me, architecture is like a conversation between humans and nature, and the seven-acre residential development by Arthur Erickson is my favourite example of West Coast architecture. There are 20 single-family homes built on a challenging sloped site, each designed to blend in with the natural surroundings. When I’m designing architecture, Montiverdi Estates is my go-to reference for creating a strong connection between indoor and outdoor spaces and harmonizing the building with nature.

Café Sperl: Sascha van der Werf; Montiverdi: Christopher Erickson; Kōdai-ji Temple: Kimon Berlin

3 Clever

Inspired

CORALLO glass dining table - made in Murano

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Photos by Flavien Carlod and Baptiste Le Quiniou, for advertising purposes only. Architect: Ramon Esteve. Sculpture: Victoire d’Harcourt. (1)Conditions apply, contact store for details.

French Ar t de Vivre

Alliage. Dining table, designed by Andrea Casati. CALGARY - 225 10th Avenue SW - Tel. 403-532-4401 VANCOUVER - 716 West Hastings Street - Tel. 604-633-5005 In-store interior design & 3D modeling services.(1)