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MICHAEL WEKERLE WE ROCK ON WITH THE BAD BOY OF BAY STREET
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AT RIVERA HOMES, WE BELIEVE THAT A ROOM IS MORE THAN JUST A SPACE. EACH ONE IS A STATEMENT; A STORY WAITING TO BE TOLD, MEMORIES WAITING TO BE FORMED. OUR FLAWLESS ATTENTION TO DETAIL WILL GIVE YOU THE HOME THAT YOU AND YOUR FAMILY DESERVE.
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DOLCE VITA MAGAZINE 5
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the art of
THINKING SMALL A hot cup of cocoa at the top of Chair 6. Long corduroy trails, a giant mountain’s way of welcoming little feet. Warm chocolate chip cookies to meet the last lift. Your very own Ski School Ambassador taking care of the smallest detail for even the tiniest tot. Munchkin wrangling: One more small way we’ll spoil you for anywhere else.
Air Canada offers non-stop service on Saturday this winter from Toronto to Eagle Airport, just 30 minutes from Beaver Creek and Vail. Service dates are January 31, 2015 – March 21, 2015. For more information visit www.beavercreek.com winter 2014/15
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DOLCE VITA MAGAZINE 7
MEET THE AMBASSADOR SYLVIA MANTELLA Chief Marketing Officer at Mantella Corporation, Philanthropist and Fashion Icon According to style icon Sylvia Mantella, fashion is always driven by a deeper purpose. Much more than fabric pieces sewn together, accessories are wearable works of art and have the power to shift the world in a better direction. This is what inspired her to join Amore Bags. Each authentic, refurbished doctor’s bag carries a legacy, and proceeds from every sale support Médecins Sans Frontières/ Doctors Without Borders (MSF) — a worthy cause for a leading fashion icon.
“As a very proud owner of four Amore Bags, it’s clear that I love them! I love that they represent giving back, hope and, of course, love. Every Amore Bag started as a simple vintage doctor’s bag but through the pure passion of Michelle Zerillo-Sosa, each bag is turned into a one-of-a-kind beautifully hand-painted and functional piece of art. I have yet to wear any one of my Amore Bags out and it not be the centre of conversation.” — Sylvia Mantella
amorebags.ca In Support of
If you are the proud owner of an Amore Bag, contact us to be profiled as the next Amore Ambassador. 8 DOLCE VITA MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com
winter 2014/15
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HIGHWAY 404
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*Vendor will pay simple interest at a rate of 8% per annum, and such interest amount shall be calculated from the date the full 15% deposit is received until: (i) 12 months from such 15% deposit satisfaction and (ii) occupancy of the unit, whichever is earlier, which amount shall be credited on successful closing. Subject to change. Restrictions apply. See Sales Representative for details. E. and O.E.
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DOLCE VITA MAGAZINE 9
WINTER 2014/15 • VOLUME 18 • ISSUE 4 Publisher/Editor-In-Chief MICHELLE ZERILLO-SOSA michelle@dolce.ca Director of Editorial SIMONA PANETTA simona@dolce.ca Director of Operations ANGELA PALMIERI-ZERILLO angela@dolce.ca
ART DEPARTMENT Co-Founder/Creative Director FERNANDO ZERILLO fernando@dolce.ca Web Project Manager STEVE BRUNO Senior Graphic Designers CHRISTINA BAN, LUAY SAIG Web Designer YENA YOO
EDITORIAL DEPARTMENT Copy Editor SIMONA PANETTA Fashion & Home Décor Editor MICHELLE ZERILLO-SOSA Beauty & Travel Editor ANGELA PALMIERI-ZERILLO Proofreaders THE EDITING COMPANY, TORONTO; SIMONA PANETTA Writers MICHAEL HILL, AMANDA STOREY Contributing Writers JENNIFER CHENG, FRANCES CHRISTIE, JUSTIN MASTINE-FROST Contributing Photographers BRANDON BARRÉ, CHARLES LANTEIGNE, JESSE MILNS, JOHN PACKMAN, SAL PASQUA, LISA PETROLE, GEORGE PIMENTEL, BELA RABA, NORMAN WONG
VIDEO DEPARTMENT Videographer DANIEL A. COOPER
ADVERTISING Director of New Business Development SUSAN BHATIA susan@dolce.ca Director of Marketing ANGELA PALMIERI-ZERILLO angela@dolce.ca Account Managers MARIO BALACEANU, LINA MUASHER
ADVERTISING INQUIRIES T: 905-264-6789 Toll-Free: 1-888-68-DOLCE info@dolce.ca • www.dolcemag.com Office Administrator JENNIFER CHENG Front Cover MICHAEL WEKERLE Photo By Jesse Milns
Dolce Magazine is published quarterly by Dolce Media Group, 111 Zenway Blvd., Suite 30, Vaughan, Ont., L4H 3H9 T: 905-264-6789, Toll-Free: 1-888-68-DOLCE, F: 905-264-3787, info@dolce.ca, www.dolcemedia.ca Publication Mail Agreement No. 40026675. All rights reserved. Any reproduction is strictly prohibited without written consent from the publisher. Dolce Magazine reaches over 900,000 affluent readers annually through household distribution and newsstand sales across Canada and at all Barnes & Noble stores in the United States. Inquiries about where else Dolce Magazine is available for sale may be directed to Dolce Media Group: info@dolce.ca or 905-264-6789. The yearly subscription fee is $16.80. Send cheque or money order to Dolce Media Group, 111 Zenway Blvd., Suite 30, Vaughan, Ont., Canada L4H 3H9 The opinions expressed in Dolce Magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher or advertisers. Dolce Media Group does not assume liability for content. The material in this magazine is intended for information purposes only and is in no way intended to supersede professional advice. We are proud to be a Canadian company that has successfully published magazines for the past 18 years without any government funding or financial assistance of programs to cover editorial costs. It has all been possible thanks to the wonderful support of our readers and advertisers. ISSN 1206-17780 Next Issue: Spring 2015 ©2014 Dolce Media Group. Printed in Canada. Printed in Canada
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to the community for the warm welcome and making the launch of Dog Tales Rescue & Sanctuary a great success! Dog Tales is a one-of-a-kind animal rescue located on 50 acres of green D fields, rolling hills and wooded areas in King City, ON Just 45 minutes from Downtown Toronto The T grounds are also home to Horse Haven, a sanctuary for retired professional horses To help rescued dogs find loving and caring families,
Dog Tales will be hosting regular Sunday Adoptions in 2015
www.dogtales.ca | 1405 19th Sideroad, King City, ON L7B 1K5 /DogTalesRescue
winter 2014/15
@DogTalesRescue
@DogTalesRescue
#ShareDogTales
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DOLCE VITA MAGAZINE 11
PUBLISHER’S Note
D
o you remember the first time you felt the wind in your face and hair? Was it warm and soothing, so much so that you spread your arms and let it fill your soul? Or was it cold and destructive — a chill that entered your bones, making you glad for the coat that you pulled closer around you? No matter what aspect of the wind you’ve experienced, this is how one can best describe the affect Michael Wekerle, our cover man, can have on those he encounters. “He’s like the wind: impossible to control, taking things where he pleases. You’re just along for the ride,” our writer states in “Wild, Wild Wek” (story on page 40). You too will be engulfed by the warmth of his character as it challenges your ideals of what is a successful businessman. And who knows, you might even enjoy the ride. For me, his character brought back childhood memories of living in Italy’s countryside, running through fields
True courage is like a kite; a contrary wind raises it higher — John Petit-Senn of wild, golden grass, all the while experiencing the beauty of the wind blowing its gentle, warm breeze. Yet, at times, strong gusts could rush by with enough force to knock you down. But as always, you’d get back up, empowered to become as masterful as a captain adjusting the sails of your ship to navigate and move ahead.
Use this issue to identify yourself either with the wind or the captain. If you are the wind, I hope you are the inspiring force that animates and energizes all those who cross your path. If you are the captain, may you be the master of your destiny by navigating the wind so that you reach the destination you have set out for. Regardless of which protagonist you are in your own story, always remember that you have the power to make a difference, in your life, in your community and in the world, by either adjusting your sails or becoming that wind of change. Happy Holidays, and may these times be filled with what la dolce vita is really all about!
Michelle Zerillo-Sosa Publisher/Editor-In-Chief
@dolcetweets | michelle@dolce.ca
Dolce Magazine The Honey of Life Sin
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DOLCE VITA MAGAZINE 13
CONTENTS ISSUE 4 / VOLUME 18 DOLCE WINTER 2014/15
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WILD, WILD WEK At home with the legendary bad boy of Bay Street
2015 CADILLAC ESCALADE The king of the road returns
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OBJECTS OF DESIRE Just a few of our favourite things
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EDEN
Escape to paradise on a whim with florals and silk
THE NEW LUXURY Canadian chef Daniel Burns and his shiny Michelin star
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ROSS PETTY The seasoned showman on playing the villain ON THE COVER Photographed by Jesse Milns, merchant banker Michael Wekerle strikes a pose at his home in Toronto. See story on page 40 34 THE ARTIST AND HER CANVAS Exploring the artistic touch Lori Morris brings to prestigious addresses 56 THE ONE-BILLION DOLLAR BUILDING Developer Sam Mizrahi’s plan to build Toronto’s landmark tower 71 DAUGHTER OF HISTORY Sotheby’s London auctions off personal possessions from the estate of Winston Churchill’s daughter More stories inside ... 14 DOLCE VITA MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com
winter 2014/15
Lakeside views meets city living
Fairwater is where city life and lake views connect – it’s your dream home in your ultimate location. Featuring only 51 luxurious estate homes, this family-friendly community brings you close to the joys of lakeside living in Pickering, while staying within minutes of downtown, key highways, cycling trails, GO Transit and prestigious schools such as Dunbarton High School. Why choose nature over city living when you can have both?
VISIT OUR MODEL HOME 525 Park Crescent, Pickering
FairwaterEstates.com winter 2014/15
www.dolcemag.com Images are for mood and impression only. E.&O.E.
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DOLCE WAS THERE
DOG TALES LAUNCH PARTY
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1. A heartwarming graphic reminds guests that a dog truly is a person’s best friend 2. Tracy Moore, host of City’s Cityline, with her family 3. Dog Tales Rescue and Sanctuary is located on 50 acres of lush farmland 4. Grammy nominee Jewel performs for a star-struck crowd 5. Danielle Eden, Jewel and Robert Scheinberg with Napa the mastiff 6. Dog Tales will be open for public adoption in 2015 7. Sam Roberts Band with Robert Scheinberg, Danielle Eden and Napa the mastiff | For additional photos from the event, please visit www.dolcemag.com winter 2014/15
PHOTOS BY GEORGE PIMENTEL PHOTOGRAPHY
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The launch party for Dog Tales Rescue and Sanctuary — a brand new dog rescue and horse shelter in King City — may have been the most star-studded animal affair the Greater Toronto Area has ever seen. On Oct. 19, 2014, the 50-acre farm opened up its doors to over 500 guests, including media members, celebrities, friends, family and other supporters, to celebrate the official opening of the shelter. Founded by Robert Scheinberg and his wife, actor Danielle Eden, Dog Tales gives previously abused or neglected dogs a place where they can learn to be dogs again. Incredible décor and passionate care from seasoned animal lovers and caretakers have made the shelter a unique one, and the launch party was no less extravagant. Designed by Caspar Haydar Design, the affair boasted entertainment by Grammy nominee Jewel and the Juno Awardwinning Sam Roberts Band while attendees savoured oysters, champagne and paw-shaped sugar cookies. The guest list included tons of A-list names and personalities, from ET Canada’s Cheryl Hickey and The Social ’s Melissa Grelo. Dog Tales Rescue is set to be open for public adoption in early 2015. www.dogtales.ca
DOLCE WAS THERE
HEART OF FASHION 2014 One of the most highly anticipated fashion events of the year brought together Toronto’s style authorities, social mavens and philanthropy addicts to celebrate the charitable side of fashion. Held by the North York General Foundation and Shops at Don Mills, and presented by BMO Financial Group in support of its BMO Financial Group Breast Diagnostic Centre at North York General Hospital, Heart of Fashion welcomed over 500 guests on Oct. 25, 2014. A runway boasted looks from Oak + Fort, Madame Moje, Anthropologie and Michael Kors, as well as collections from renowned Canadian designers David Dixon, Fotini Copeland and Christopher Bates. Guests were charmed by emcee Rosey Edeh, co-host of The Morning Show and co-anchor of News at Noon on Global. A silent auction featured fabulous prizes such as gift cards from fine Shops at Don Mills retailers, as well as the grand prize: a VIP package
to the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show. The event raised over $780,000 for the cause. The BMO Financial Group Breast Diagnostic Centre is a leader in breast cancer services and focuses on patientand family-centred care. Proceeds from Heart of Fashion will enable the acquisition of seed localization, a revolutionary technology that allows doctors to more accurately and less invasively identify and remove tumours while reducing patient discomfort, plus increase the volume of patients able to be treated. www.heartoffashion.ca, www.nyghfoundation.ca
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1. Event sponsors Antoinette Sorbara and Joseph Sorbara 2. Holly Miklas, event chair; Ron Baruch, chair of the North York General Foundation; and Terry Pursell, president and CEO of the North York General Foundation 3. George Ioannides, president of Gridiron Promotions; and Cathy Ciccolini, owner of Masters Insurance Ltd. 4. Leo DelZotto, president of Tridel Group of Companies, and wife Sandra 5. Sharon and Ron Baruch 6. Vanessa Torokvei, member of the Heart of Fashion Advisory Council, and Holly Miklas | For additional photos from the event, please visit www.dolcemag.com winter 2014/15
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DOLCE VITA MAGAZINE 17
ABANDONED BUT NOT FORGOTTEN
Last September, Digital Imprint gathered 200 guests at photographer Giulio Muratori’s “Abandoned” exhibit at the Goodfellas Gallery in Toronto’s Queen West. From an airplane hangar to a jail cell, the exhibit’s 22 photos featured his deepest and darkest work of deserted structures in Italy. Joined by Global Family’s executive director Jennifer Jensen and Italian consul general Giuseppe Pastorelli, guests kicked back with bubbly, vino and Steam Whistle beer paired with hors d’oeuvres from chef Gavin Vasquez. Proceeds from the event went toward The Daughter Project, which provides long-term holistic services to sex-trafficking victims. www.digital-imprint.ca/abandoned
Giulio Muratori, featured photographer, with Fernando Zerillo, co-founder of Dolce Media Group; Angela Palmieri-Zerillo, director of operations of Dolce Media Group; Halcyon Tan, creative principal at Digital Imprint; and Joseph Manzoli, Colourfast president | For additional photos from the event, please visit www.dolcemag.com
PHOTO BY NATALIE T.
DOLCE WAS THERE
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1. Chris Salgardo, president of Kiehl’s USA, and Allison Janney, Emmy Award-winning actress 2. Singer Erykah Badu with Two X Two’s featured entertainer this year, CeeLo Green | For additional photos from the event, please visit www.dolcemag.com
PHOTOS COURTESY OF GETTY IMAGES
Cindy and Howard Rachofsky’s Richard Meier–designed home in Dallas was once again filled with various dignitaries for the 16th annual Two X Two for Aids and Art benefit dinner and auction. Among the nearly 465 guests in attendance was entertainer CeeLo Green, Sotheby’s chairman Jamie Niven and celebrity chef Thomas Keller. This year’s live and silent auctions offered 125 works of art, with 2014 amfAR honoree Wade Guyton’s piece alone snagging $2.6 million. The black-tie gala raised a record $7 million for amfAR and the Dallas Museum of Art. www.twoxtwo.org
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1. Infiniti Canada’s fixed operations manager Peter Jackson; Infiniti’s dealer operations manager Scott Macwilliam; Infiniti Canada’s director of marketing Wendy Durward; Endras Automotive Group’s vice-president Mark Endras and president Christopher Endras; Infiniti Canada’s national general manager Stephen Lester 2. Endras Automotive Group’s vice-president Mark Endras addresses the crowd | For additional photos from the event, please visit www.dolcemag.com
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The Endras Automotive Group recently celebrated the Infiniti brand — its newest dealership — at the Lakeridge Premium AutoPark in Ajax, Ont. The grand opening brought over 300 guests together, including the mayor of Ajax, Steve Parish. Attendees enjoyed delectable delights from Daniel et Daniel paired with “Inspired Performance” drinks and milkshakes in the Red Bull experience room, where a stunning Infinity Red Bull Racing car was on display. Four lucky winners walked away with a brand new Infiniti for six months as part of a prize giveaway. www.endrasinfiniti.com
winter 2014/15
PHOTOS BY JASON JAJALLA
INFINITI JOINS ENDRAS AUTOMOTIVE GROUP
DOLCE WAS THERE
LE GRAND BAL 1
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The annual Le Grand Bal gala returned to the city on Nov. 24, 2014, bringing with it an evening of mystery and opulence. Presented by the House of Forward Foundation and held at the Fermenting Cellar in Toronto, this year’s event was themed as a masquerade, prompting guests to don their masques and black tie best. Over 250 of Canada’s most influential cultural innovators and philanthropists joined in to celebrate the dramatic debut of Canadian Fabric Vol II, the annual magazine recognized as Canada’s cultural yearbook. George Stroumboulopoulos, as well as honorary chair of the House of Forward Foundation Suzanne Rogers and Le Grand Bal chair Sylvia Mantella, were among the many movers and shakers at this memorable soiree. Funds raised from Le Grand Bal, as well as all profits from the sale of Canadian Fabric, will benefit Oolagen, a not-for-profit children’s mental health agency. www.canadianfabric.com
1. Robert Mantella, president and CEO of Mantella Corporation, and Sylvia Mantella, chair of Le Grand Bal and chief marketing officer at Mantella Corporation 2. Live entertainment enchanted guests throughout the evening 3. Michelle Zerillo-Sosa, co-founder of Dolce Media Group, and husband Sergio Sosa 4. Simon Rosen, president of Erie Meat Products Ltd., and wife Kelly Rosen 5. Alex Filiatrault, director of sales and marketing at Shangri-La Hotel, Toronto, with Lisa Tant, vice-president of exclusive services and store experience at Holt Renfrew, and Nolan Bryant, society reporter for the Globe and Mail 6. Suzanne Rogers, honorary chair of the House of Forward Foundation with daughter Chloe Rogers, model | For additional photos from the event, please visit www.dolcemag.com
THE MACEDONIAN TRIBUTE BALL 1ST ANNUAL TEA AND TIARAS High tea met high fashion at Starlight Children’s Foundation’s first annual Tea and Tiaras event on Nov. 2, 2014. Held in Toronto at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel’s historic ballroom, Tea and Tiaras’ 300 guests raised awareness and funds for the Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to bringing joy to children with serious illnesses. Collin Thornton, executive chef at the Fairmont, presented gourmet sweets to complement guests’ custom-blended teas while Jennifer Valentyne, host of the “Live Eye” segment on City’s Breakfast Television Toronto, presented an RW&CO. fashion show. www.teaandtiaras.ca PHOTO BY GEORGE PIMENTEL PHOTOGRAPHY
PHOTO BY MARIA GAGLIARDI
In September, the United Macedonian Diaspora (UMD) and Canadian Macedonian Place Foundation (CMPF) collaboratively hosted the Macedonian Tribute Ball, honouring two Canadians of Macedonian origin. Chris Paliare, a founding partner of Paliare Roland Rosenberg Rothstein LLP, received the Global UMD Lifetime Achievement Award while Vonna Bitove, executive director of the Bitove Foundation, received the Global UMD Macedonian Heritage Public Service Award. www.umdiaspora.org
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Vonna Bitove (centre) is joined by Connie Stavro Giamos and United Macedonian Diaspora chairman Stojan Nikolov as she receives the Global UMD Macedonian Heritage Public Service Award | For additional photos from the event, please visit www.dolcemag.com winter 2014/15
Guests receive the ultimate in pampering at Tea and Tiaras, experiencing high tea, artisan goodies and décor worthy of royalty | For additional photos from the event, please visit www.dolcemag.com www.dolcemag.com
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DOLCE WAS THERE GRAND CRU CELEBRATES 10TH ANNIVERSARY
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1. Lou Rocca, president of Halton Forming Ltd., and Marisa Rocca, owner of Sotto Sotto Ristorante, host the 10th anniversary Grand Cru Culinary Wine Festival 2. Grand Cru’s co-founder and co-chair Todd Halpern and Peony Design’s president Ellen Halpern at the Grand Cru Appreciation Party on Oct. 30, 2014 | For additional photos from the event, please visit www.dolcemag.com
PHOTOS BY TOM SANDLER PHOTOGRAPHY
This year’s Grand Cru Culinary Wine Festival drew over 400 guests to 14 private homes in the Greater Toronto Area for an Exclusive Wine & Dine Experience dinner on Nov. 1, 2014. Each dinner had a host, a scientist and a top chef, who cooked up delectable dishes. There were also celebrity sightings among the guests, including TV personality Kevin O’Leary and actor Amelia Heinle. Official purchasing partner BMO World Elite MasterCard provided two tickets to the 57th Grammy Awards — an auction item that included other priceless experiences. The event raised over $1.8 million for research at the University Health Network. www.grandcru.ca
PHOTO BY DAVID AND SHERRY BUCK
The 1936 Delahaye Type 135 Competition Court Teardrop Coupé, the best in-show winner | For additional photos from the event, please visit www.dolcemag.com
Concours d’Elegance — the world’s best car show — returned to Cobble Beach Golf Resort in Georgian Bay for its second run this past September. But this year saw a new element: the first Museum Class. From Canada’s first car to a 1963 Ford Mustang II Prototype, all eight cars with origins spanning from Ottawa to Detroit were lined up under a tent for sheer entertainment. As if the helicopter rides or test drives of the 2014 Porsche 911 weren’t enough for the 5,000 guests, Victoria gin martinis were also at the ready. The two-day event raised over $55,000 for the Sunnybrook Hospital Foundation. www.cobblebeachconcours.com
Renowned fashion photographer Arthur Elgort appeared in Toronto for the opening of his first Canadian exhibit at the Izzy Gallery on Oct. 9, 2014. “The Big Picture” featured 22 of his black and white portraits of iconic beauties ranging from Kate Moss to Linda Evangelista and Karlie Kloss. Born and bred in New York, Elgort rose to fame with his snapshot style, which transcended the norm of curated shoots in fashion photography beginning with his 1971 debut in British Vogue. While his solo exhibit ended in late November, his fivedecade career continues to be celebrated with his new book by the same name. www.izzygallery.com
PHOTOS BY GEORGE PIMENTEL PHOTOGRAPHY
CONCOURS D’ELEGANCE RETURNS TO COTTAGE COUNTRY
THE BIG PICTURE AT IZZY GALLERY
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1. Dee Dee Taylor Eustace, architect and interior designer, with Michelle Zerillo-Sosa, co-founder of Dolce Media Group; Bobby Genovese, chairman of the board at BG Capital Group; and Jo-Ann Folino, sales representative at Re/Max West Realty Inc. 2. Izzy Sulejmani, owner of Izzy Gallery, with Barbara and Bryan Colangelo | For additional photos from the event, please visit www.dolcemag.com 20 DOLCE VITA MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com
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DOLCE WAS THERE
PHOTOS BY GEORGE PIMENTEL PHOTOGRAPHY
4TH ANNUAL DIWALI: A NIGHT TO SHINE The 4th annual Diwali event, held at The Carlu in Toronto, brought its colourful and cultured celebration to the city once again. In support of the University Health Network, the sold-out event brought together 450 members of the Greater Toronto Area’s corporate and philanthropic communities. Diwali, the namesake of the event, is the Hindu festival of lights that celebrates good health, hope, luck and prosperity. This year’s theme was “Faiths and Festivals of India,” inviting guests to experience the collective energy among the many diverse faiths and festivals that are significant to India’s culture. The evening raised over $450,000 to benefit UHN programs at the Peter Munk Cardiac Centre and the Sun Life Financial Banting and Best Diabetes Clinics. www.tgwhf.ca
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1. Donette Chin-Loy and Toni Spooner, president of Maroon Communications 2. Shawna and Dr. Vivek Rao, division head of cardiovascular surgery at University Health Network 3. Dr. Michael Baker, event co-chair; Shaila Kothari; Raj Kothari, event co-chair; Mala Chopra; and Dr. Anil Chopra | For additional photos from the event, please visit www.dolcemag.com
David rocco’s dolce vita wine Available at the
LCBO
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DOLCE VITA MAGAZINE 21
DOLCE WAS THERE
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1. Greta Constantine’s Stephen Wong with fellow partygoer Parambir Keila 2. DJ Blackcat performs for an awe-struck crowd 3. Fashion Television host Jeanne Beker with Frank Toskan and Phillip Ing of MAC Cosmetics, and Design Exchange president Shauna Levy | For additional photos from the event, please visit www.dolcemag.com
On Nov. 7, 2014, Toronto’s Design Exchange welcomed over 1,000 guests to DX Intersection, the museum’s annual fundraising affair. This time, the theme was “Rise Up,” a celebration of creativity, community and protest culture that had Castor Design shrink-wrap the entire library in white — a stark contrast to the red food installation, a symbol of the red flag, by Parts & Labour Catering. In the lobby, The Rodnik Band staged a surprise protest with hand-painted “Pop Art Not War” and “Love Each Other” signs, which continued onto the historic trading floor, where MAC Cosmetics presented a vogue-off between Toronto and New York dancers for various trophies, such as “Best Face” and “Best Runway.” The winner? Team Canada. This year’s awardee was MAC Cosmetics co-founder Frank Toskan. The epitome of positive protest culture, he has used his brand to raise funds for AIDS and instigate social change. Proceeds from the night went toward the museum’s youth education programs and Canadian design preservation initiative. www.dx.org
PHOTOS BY RYAN EMBERLEY
RISE UP, DRESS DOWN AT DX INTERSECTION
60TH ANNUAL CHAIR’S DINNER 1
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1. This year’s Annual Chair’s Dinner keynote speaker Peter Mansbridge, anchor of CBC’s The National 2. Left to Right: Chris Mei of The Weather Network; Maggie Habieda of Fotografia Boutique; and Pam Damoff, Oakville town councillor 3. From left to right: Michelle Eglington of Euro-Line; Doug Hynek of Hynek Financial Group; Darcy Neil of HDSB, past chair Aby Alameddine of Core Online Marketing; Doug Eglington of Euro-Line | For additional photos from the event, please visit www.dolcemag.com 22 DOLCE VITA MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com
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PHOTOS BY JANET BEDFORD
An audience of 450 guests sat riveted as CBC News chief correspondent Peter Mansbridge delivered his keynote address at the 60th Annual Chair’s Dinner hosted by the Oakville Chamber of Commerce this past September. With his baritone voice and commanding presence, the news veteran shared personal stories of past interviews with impressive leaders, including his favourite — a chat with U.S. President Barack Obama just weeks after he first took office. Held at the Oakville Conference Centre, the Dinner celebrated the remarkable leadership of Chamber chair Orla Johnston while welcoming new chair Kerry Colborne, who has served as the director of the board since 2008. www.oakvillechamber.com
Executive Chef | Luigi Maresca
10519 Islington Avenue, Village of Kleinburg 905.893.7400 www.avenuecibievini.com
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DOLCE VITA MAGAZINE 23
DOLCE WAS THERE
OFFICIAL LAUNCH OF TWO SISTERS VINEYARDS 1
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1. Sisters Angela Marotta and Melissa Marotta-Paolicelli head Two Sisters Vineyards, the beginning of a new chapter in the Marotta family legacy 2. Using trusted, traditional wine-making techniques, Two Sisters Vineyards produces unique and quality wines 3. The grand Two Sisters Vineyards estate is a spectacle of its own, housing a restaurant, a retail space, a barrel room and more | For additional photos from the event, please visit www.dolcemag.com
PHOTOS COURTESY OF TWO SISTERS VINEYARDS
The newest addition to Ontario’s wine country is Two Sisters Vineyards, a premium winery run by siblings Angela Marotta and Melissa Marotta-Paolicelli. The company celebrated its grand opening on Nov. 21, 2014, welcoming over 350 guests from near and far to its grand estate on Niagara-onthe-Lake. Eventgoers had the chance to explore the winery, from its restaurant to its retail space to its barrel cellar, while sipping on luxurious Two Sisters wines and noshing on finger foods. www.twosistersvineyards.com
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1. Melissa Grelo, co-host of CTV’s The Social, and Michelle Zerillo-Sosa, co-founder of Dolce Media Group 2. Matthew Rowe, director of operations and partnerships at Prince’s Charities Canada; Justin Fogarty, barrister and solicitor and vice-chair of the Prince’s Operation Entrepreneur Program (POE); His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada; Her Excellency Sharon Johnston; Leendert Bolle, former member of the Canadian Forces and founder of Hero Dehydrated Dog Treats Inc.; Matt Gillmore, former member of the Canadian Forces and computer software engineer and project manager; Chris Goodhew, Canadian Forces officer; Hilary Weston, former lieutenant-governor of Ontario and chair of the POE Advisory Council; Galen Weston Sr., executive chairman of George Weston Ltd.; and Amanda Sherrington, president of Prince’s Charities Canada | For additional photos from the event, please visit www.dolcemag.com
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His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales, alongside Dame Julia Cleverdon and a team of executives, recently launched his Canadian Responsible Business Network (PCRBN), a national business-led initiative to advance youth employment. Led by founding partners George Weston Ltd., KPMG, RBC and Scotiabank, the new network is working in Canadian neighbourhoods facing severe social and economic challenges. The official launch took place on Oct. 15, 2014, at a dinner hosted at RBC Plaza in Toronto. In a video message recorded specially for the occasion, the Prince of Wales expressed his advocacy for strengthening these communities with Seeing Is Believing, a learning program he designed to enable Canadian business leaders to create opportunities for disadvantaged neighbourhoods. Event attendees included senior business executives representing PCRBN’s founding partners and Dame Julia Cleverdon, and the Prince’s special advisor on responsible business, who travelled from London for the event. www.princescharities.ca winter 2014/15
PHOTO BY MASTER CPL. VINCENT CARBONNEAU, RIDEAU HALL
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| TORONTO
This exterior rendering of the Urban Townhome Collection displays its modern-meets-luxurious design Located in one of Toronto’s most treasured neighbourhoods, the Urban Townhome Collection is surrounded by history and culture
Placing an emphasis on artistry, Pemberton Group is creating a living space that is as interesting as it is functional
THE
URBAN TOWNHOME COLLECTION Pemberton Group’s latest masterpiece melds art with culture and luxury with modernism, giving Toronto’s residential market a much-needed boost of creativity
It
WRITTEN BY AMANDA STOREY
seems that every few weeks there’s a new builder making promises to erect Toronto’s “Next Big Thing.” But this claim, made by renowned residential builder Pemberton Group, is actually sticking. That’s because its latest high-end townhome development strays from the cookie-cutter standards set by its peers, re-establishing the definition of luxury. Anchoring the two high-rise towers of Pemberton Group’s recent project, U Condominiums, the Urban Townhome
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Collection comprises 19 unique layouts, all targeted at Toronto’s high-earning young professionals who aren’t quite yet ready to graduate to Rosedale or Forest Hill. With each suite boasting its own garage, private elevator and custom features, plus access to a 4,500-squarefeet community rooftop space with a wraparound terrace and party room — complete with a caterer’s kitchen and private wine locker — these residences are flawlessly tailored to the young, urban and high-earning professional. “We were trying to create something
kind of sexy and contemporary with a bit of humour, a bit of wit,” says Neil Jonsohn of Toronto-based design firm Union 31, who was responsible for curating the luxe furnishings and accents for the model suite. Bay and Bloor is a cultured corner of the city where the stylish flock to sip coffee and sightsee. Claimed mostly by the storied architecture of the University of Toronto, the cherished neighbourhood is often viewed as a piece of art to be looked at, not touched, particularly by the city’s swelling construction boom. But as Jonsohn explains, the Urban Townhome Collection has no agenda of jeopardizing the historic feel of its neighbourhood. In fact, it promises to complement it. “You have this Canadian Ivy League School and appropriate buildings that reflect that, and then you have this modern take on it. I just think it’s nice to see something modern that respects the traditional,” says Jonsohn, who helped curate a series of authentic works by Canadian author, visual artist and cultural iconoclast Douglas Coupland to accentuate the model suite. Artistically driven, Pemberton Group is crafting the Urban Townhome Collection to radiate the creativity and culture of the Bay and Bloor neighbourhood, paying its respects to the nearby Art Gallery of Ontario as well as to the historic buildings and lush greenery of the St. Michael’s campus of the University of Toronto, which surrounds the development. Awaiting to welcome home Toronto’s next generation of stylish dwellers, and offering a space where modernism meets luxury, the Urban Townhome Collection’s suites are now available to be purchased. www.utownhomes.ca winter 2014/15
PHOTOS COURTESY OF URBAN TOWNHOME COLLECTION
Marc Muzzo, president of Pemberton Group, and Ann Webb, managing director of ROM Contemporary Culture
Fashion-forward products from across the globe, hand-picked by our lighting design specialists.
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The Prince Philip Residence, named after its affluent street in the storied neighbourhood of Outremont, Que., was recently renovated by Thellend Fortin Architectes
THE PRINCE PHILIP RESIDENCE Meet the new monarch of Montreal’s real estate
PHOTOS BY CHARLES LANTEIGNE PHOTO
WRITTEN BY AMANDA STOREY
T
he words “modernism” and “royalty” don’t often run parallel, but in the case of the Prince Philip Residence in Montreal, the newly uber-mod space has been titled appropriately. Formerly a mid-century Outremont bungalow, this hilltop abode was recently flipped into something of a 21st century castle, having been renovated and expanded at the hands of Thellend Fortin Architectes, a key player on Montreal’s luxury residence scene. The goal of the project was to take advantage of the lot’s picture-like horizon, which the bungalow’s single storey had left untapped. The second-floor expansion, with its generous window, opened up that view to reveal the unique scape. The architectural concept also introduced additional living spaces to the home in the form of a ribbon running laterally in line
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with the structure’s contours, and the folds and unfolds of this “ribbon” creating an array of different views of the surrounding landscape. Thought-provoking shapes and a fearless use of glass bathe this reimagined space in natural light. Concrete somehow becomes cosy with the cantilevered extension, which is clad in anthracite-coloured concrete panels and reflects the St. Marc limestone-lined pool. The pool itself is surrounded by a suspended deck in white-painted concrete, all together creating a natural and mineral esthetic that blends soulfully into the canopy of maple trees enveloping the lot. The modern Canadian’s version of Buckingham Palace, Prince Philip Residence is a pocket of oasis in the heart of one of the country’s most bustling cities, making the most out of a unique topography. www.thellendfortin.com www.dolcemag.com
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▼ Far more elegant than the typical iPhone speaker, these handcrafted audio amplifiers radiate as much beauty as they do sound. www.deringhall.com
▲ If you want to introduce class to a room, don’t look for objects — look for icons. This artwork of Sophia Loren sparks instant glamour. www.1stdibs.com
▲ The home deserves to wear some bling, too. The illuminated baubles of the Renovation Room Pendant will bring a soft glow to your abode. www.deringhall.com ▼ Rest your head in glamour with the Bling Lumbar Pillow by Lance Wovens. Shimmery and strong, it takes notes from Hollywood’s brightest. www.deringhall.com
▼ To warm up the look and feel of a room, bring home the antique Fletcher Wall Lantern from Jamb, a chimneypiece-focused antique gallery. www.deringhall.com
30 DOLCE VITA MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com
ESTATE OF MIND
Enlighten your space with these fine finds, from artsy audio amplifiers to the coolest cushions WRITTEN BY AMANDA STOREY
▼ Solid English walnut with a natural oil finish and brushed nickel come beautifully together in this media unit, which offers as much esthetics as it does convenience. www.deringhall.com
▲ Earthy tones go with everything, and so does comfort. Both come together in the Rest Cushion from Suite NY, a beautifully simplistic accessory to the modern home. www.suiteny.com ◀ This Platinum Bangle Stool design originally belonged to the royal family of the Bamun tribe in Cameroon and was reinterpreted in Peruvian porcelain. www.deringhall.com
winter 2014/15
Keep your loved ones toasty this winter with an oh-so-soft throw A DV E R TO R I A L
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osy up to the season of giving by treating yourself or a loved one to the hottest throws. David’s Fine Linens, Toronto’s trusted source of all things warm and comfortable, carries luxurious faux fur throws — cruelty-free alternatives that look and feel authentic. Specially imported from South Africa is a collection of mohair throws that redefine the meaning of soft, while high-end Marzotto throws, made from a blend of cashmere and merino wool, are also new must-haves. The shop’s sought-
after down-filled duvets are also at the top of everyone’s wish list this year, so bring your holiday shopping to David’s Fine Linens to discover VIP-worthy gifts.
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ay your home be filled with love, laughter and happiness this holiday season!
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winter 2014/15
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| TORONTO 1
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David Rocco with his wife, Nina Rocco, at the launch of his new wine collection, David Rocco’s Dolce Vita Wines
1. Lisa Tant of Holt Renfrew and Jeffry Roick of McNabb Roick Events and The Carlu 2. Sharon Hudson with Nolan Bryant of the Globe and Mail and Mary Symons 3. Sal Mele of Capocaccia Restaurant and Frank Ciccolini of Masters Insurance 4. Chad Brincheski of ESP Inc. and Jordan Fogle of the Mint Agency 5. Priya Shah of Campari Group and Franco Stalteri of Charlie’s Burgers 6. Sandy Mirotti of Per Lui, with Michelle Zerillo-Sosa of Dolce Media Group, and Paul Doreli of Per Lui
DAVID ROCCO’S DOLCE VITA
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or many, wine is an essential ingredient to la dolce vita, and celebrity chef David Rocco is among that group. The Toronto-based culinary icon, most recognized for his Food Network series David Rocco’s Dolce Vita, has released his own collection of quality wines, fittingly named after the
32 DOLCE VITA MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com
WRITTEN BY AMANDA STOREY
hit show. The Ontario release of his wines — a Pinot Grigio, a Chianti and a Prosecco — was celebrated on Dec. 2, 2014, at Nespresso Café in Toronto with a star-studded official launch. Joining Rocco and his wife, Nina, were media and business personalities from across the city, including Glen Baxter of CTV’s In Fashion, Lisa Tant of Holt Renfrew,
Laura Ward of Etalk and many others. The new brand’s food partners, Petite & Sweet and Capocaccia Trattoria, helped make the night an even more memorable one by providing sweets and eats to be savoured with the delicious wines. David Rocco’s Dolce Vita Wines will be available across Canada in early 2015. www.davidrocco.com winter 2014/15
PHOTOS BY GEORGE PIMENTEL PHOTOGRAPHY
David Rocco’s Dolce Vita just got even more savoury with the launch of his own collection of quality wines
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THE ARTIST AND HER
CANVAS
PHOTO BY NORMAN WONG
This family room at the Four Seasons Private Residences Toronto exemplifies Lorri Morris’s love for designs of the past
Based out of Toronto, Lori Morris designs spaces that exude tasteful extravagance
Designing for elite homeowners across the world, artist Lori Morris doesn’t dabble in pencil or ink, but in one-ofa-kind furniture, authentic art and travel-inspired spaces WRITTEN BY AMANDA STOREY PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRANDON BARRÉ
I
f Marie Antoinette had a Pinterest board, it would have looked something like Lori Morris’s portfolio. The Toronto-based interior designer has secured her place on the wish lists of estate owners across the city, attracting décor lovers with her taste for intricacy and lush antique style. Dolce Magazine caught up with Morris to talk about European art markets, the artful process she brings to every project and how beauty is synonymous with luxury. Dolce Magazine: Tell us your story — what brings you to the tip-top of Toronto’s home décor industry? Lori Morris: I have always been winter 2014/15
inspired by interior design. I designed my own bedroom when I was 10 and from there I was hooked. I studied at the International Academy of Merchandising and Design and founded Lori Morris Designs in 1987. I have always been inspired by architecture, landscaping and beautiful couture designs, and felt that I understood the relationship between those elements and interior design in a unique and artistic way. DM: You follow a carefully constructed designing process every time you take on a project. Can you break down this process for us? LM: I have a staff of over 25 employees, including designers and www.dolcemag.com
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project managers, who help manage the spaces logistically, from the initial client meetings to the final reveal. Our creative director Julie Ballard works hand-inhand with me and we design the spaces together, but I solely hand-pick all the decoration, art, finishes and details for each of my designs. DM: How would you define your style? LM: My designs all have a certain “Lori Morris” soul and elegance to them, but they cannot be defined as one particular style. I create very personal and intimate spaces for my clients that are catered to their vision. All of my spaces are especially unique because I custom design each furniture piece. You won’t find these pieces anywhere else. I can create very modern rooms and more neo-classical, French-inspired rooms, but all in all, I consider myself an artist who creates different pieces of art (spaces) for each of my clients. DM: You often allude to artistry, comparing your firm’s creations to paintings or masterpieces. Would you say visual art, or painting, is another passion of yours? Have you ever experimented with that string of creativity? LM: I constantly feel the urge to take out a canvas and just paint whatever is inside my head, but I haven’t explored that string of my creativity just yet. I do love art and I regularly travel around the globe to buy art for my clients. It will always be a big focus of my spaces. DM: Would you say your signature style has evolved over time, or has it stayed consistent? LM: My style is consistent in that I can always deliver on unique and luxurious spaces. That being said, I don’t design according to trends, I design based on the personality of my client, so my spaces are known to stand the test of time. If my clients evolve, my spaces will evolve with them. DM: Your Twitter says you reinvent the standard of interior design. Why would you say the standard needs a reinvention, and how does Lori Morris Designs answer that need? LM: Our one-of-a-kind client experience has reinvented the standard of interior design. We offer a conciergelike service that allows us to take a creative and artistic approach to all of our designs. We take care of everything for our clients, even moving their clothes back in and hanging them in their closet. I also travel around the world to places like London and Paris, either with my clients or on my own, to get 36 DOLCE VITA MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com
“LUXURY IS SO DIFFERENT FOR EVERYONE. TO ME, IT’S ABOUT BEING SURROUNDED BY BEAUTIFUL THINGS” — Lori Morris
inspiration and purchase art. We also house a number of finishes in our office, like textiles, floorings and hardware. We are a one-stop shop where clients can come in and look at all the options in one place. It is an unmatched experience in the industry. DM: Can you give me an example of an artist who you consider to be a muse in your work? LM: I have always been, and continue to be, inspired by Ralph Lauren. He has such a great sense of style and eclecticism, and I feel that he really understands the balance between creativity and proportion. I am also very inspired by the complexity of designers like Dolce & Gabbana, who understand the importance of layering different textures. When you consider these two designers together, that will give you an understanding of who I am. DM: What’s the project you’re most proud of? LM: I am proud of all of my projects, especially those where clients gave me the freedom to act as an artist from start to finish. Whether it’s a condo suite, city home or a cottage, it’s about having a blank canvas to work with and creating a space that is unique and that my client is comfortable in. DM: Most interesting project? LM: A cottage we did in the Lake of Bays was one of my most interesting projects. We designed the sprawling property with just wood and glass — no drywall was used at all. In fact, some of the floor-to-ceiling windows even retract to bring the outside in.
DM: Most demanding project? LM: We recently designed one of the top floors in the Four Seasons Private Residences Toronto and, while this is one of my favourite spaces, it was a demanding project. The whole building was still under construction while we were working and we had to go up 50 floors in the cage elevator! I am pretty claustrophobic, so it was definitely an experience. DM: Which neighbourhoods have you worked in? LM: I have worked all around Toronto, from Rosedale and Forest Hill to Thornhill and Oakville. I do a lot of cottage homes, which brings me to places like Muskoka and Georgian Bay. Florida is another place where you’ll find my work, including Miami, Boca Raton and Palm Beach. I have some exciting projects lined up in New York City as well. DM: Have you worked with any notable clients you’re willing to share? LM: I work with a lot of big developers in Toronto such as Chris Bratty. I find it so interesting how creative they are with their own spaces. A notable project
A whimsical gallery hallway at the Four Seasons Private Residences
This lounge at a Toronto residence exemplifies that cosy and contemporary can mix
I have coming up is the redesign of Oscar-winner Paul Haggis’s New York City loft. DM: Where do you source furnishings and other details for your designs? LM: I source furnishings from all over the world. I particularly love travelling to London and Paris to purchase art and antiques. When I design a space, I have a very particular vision in my mind and in order for that to come to life, I need to design my own pieces. It is a real passion of mine and adds an exclusive and unique element to each space. My clients feel secure knowing that no other space will look like their own. DM: What does luxury mean to you? LM: Luxury is so different for everyone. To me, it’s about being surrounded by beautiful things. It’s a space that is extravagant and extremely comfortable, sophisticated and sexy. DM: What’s your dream project? LM: My dream project is any custom space where the client gives me the freedom to be an artist and design the space from top to bottom. Luckily, I have had many dream projects already. DM: What is your definition of la dolce vita? LM: I am so fortunate to get to do what I love every day. My clients give me the opportunity to really be an artist. I also have the balance of being busy doing what I love, and then finding relaxation and solace in my personal life — that is la dolce vita. www.lorimorris.com
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DOLCE VITA MAGAZINE 37
ONE-ON-ONE WITH
GEORGE STROUMBOULOPOULOS The new host of Hockey Night in Canada welcomes Dolce Magazine into his home
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WRITTEN BY MICHAEL HILL
or the past decade, George Stroumboulopoulos has been the poster boy of the CBC with his primetime talk show George Stroumboulopoulos Tonight. This fall he started a new journey, as he took over hosting duties of the preeminent stick-and-puck program in the country, Hockey Night in Canada (HNIC). We sat down with Stroumboulopoulos in his home studio to talk HNIC, music and if he’s ever going to settle down. What’s it like to be the new host of HNIC? 38 DOLCE VITA MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com
It’s so strange to me to host Hockey Night in Canada. I love it. I love hockey. I love television. I love communicating with Canadians and being in good company with them — I spent my entire life working at honing those skills — but it’s still so strange to think about it. I don’t take it for granted. I’ll put it to you that way. I don’t take it for granted. Were you nervous at all for the first broadcast? That first night, that Saturday night, I wasn’t nervous at all. Not even a lick. To a point where I was in the hallway and I thought, “This is weird. I’m not feeling
anything at all,” except for, “I’m ready. I’m ready and I want to have fun.” That’s what I keep saying: “I want to have fun.” Response has been mixed to you hosting HNIC. How do you deal with that criticism? When people saw me on Hockey Night in Canada, the two things they had the biggest issue with were “You’re not Ron” and “Look at your pants. Your pants are skinny.” So people don’t like that. What am I going to do about that? Can I be nervous about that? Do I have to change who I am to make random Twitter people happy? Of course not. You just can’t worry about it. Let’s talk about The Strombo Show. You play a rather eclectic mix of music. On one of your recent episodes you played everything from Coldplay to Journey to Joel Plaskett to Celine Dion to Sonic Youth to some band called Greylag. Well, my mom always told me your life is a mansion. So just don’t use two rooms. Use them all. Describe your exploration of music. How do you find this stuff? It always changes. I have a lot of friends that like good music. So we’ll just share ideas. “Hey, have you heard this? Have you heard that?” The other thing I do is — I do it often, not every day, but I do it often — I’ll find a song that I like and then I’ll just research and find out who influenced that artist and then which artists influenced her and go back and back and try to find the ground zero of everything I like in terms of music. And in that journey, you go down a lot of wrong hallways and sketchy alleys. You’ll find stuff that’s not connected to what you were looking for, but you just find new stuff. You’re 42 and have never been married. Have you ever thought about settling down and starting a family? The thing that makes me happy the most is coming home and putting on music. I live a very solitary life. I’ve got lots of friends, but my home, my choices — I’m sure I could do it. But you know what it is? I just never really felt like I needed to or felt like I wanted to. If it happens it happens, and I’ll be cool with it. But it’s not planned. It’s not like I feel there’s a hole in my life. I don’t feel that. Life is what you make it. winter 2014/15
PHOTO BY JESSE MILNS
George Stroumboulopoulos in his home in downtown Toronto
Fine Giftware
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Rosy Blue is a haven for all who wish to inspire with fine, unique gifts and home décor pieces. From birthdays, anniversaries and weddings to religious milestones and other special celebrations, the carefully selected giftware, bomboniere and favours at Rosy Blue offer ample and beautiful ways to make your loved one’s special day memorable. An array of home accents imported from design capitals France and Italy will also add originality and sparkle to your home.
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winter 2014/15
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, d li
W Michael Wekerle sits on the edge of his bathtub in the spacious master suite of his elegant Forest Hill home
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Michael Wekerle has entered a new era of his life with a new company, a new TV show and a new outlook. Dolce Magazine catches up (or tries to) with the untamable merchant banker to get to know the man they call “Wek” WRITTEN BY MICHAEL HILL PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSE MILNS
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hen Michael Wekerle says he’s going to do something, he does it. It’s a quality many have come to appreciate, including Ralph Lean. For the past three years, Lean, counsel at the Toronto office of international law firm Gowlings, has taught a course at Ryerson University titled “Law, Business, Politics: The Real World.” The course features a speaker series where high-profile politicians, lawmakers and business professionals give talks and answer students’ questions to let them compare what they’ve been taught in school with what’s effective in practice. Past speakers include former premier Mike Harris, president and CEO of the Toronto Blue Jays Paul Beeston and Dragons’ Den star Arlene Dickinson. And as of this fall: Michael Wekerle. Lean explains that the merchant banker proved to be a polarizing figure for the students. Some loved his passion and wit while others — those more concerned with the technical aspects of business — found him unfocused and erratic. But what else would you expect from “Bay Street’s legendary badboy trader,” a man conspicuously described as “Mick Jagger meets Warren Buffet”? “Wek is Wek,” chuckles Lean. “If you defined all the criteria for a great businessperson, Wek may not
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Wekerle rocks out poolside with a Gibson Les Paul autographed by Les Paul himself
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‘‘T
he best way to meet people was by staying out late at night, trying to make sure you were less drunk than they were” — Michael Wekerle
tick off all the boxes. But then if you look at the results, you’ll say, ‘Well, they’re positive.’” Over the past 30 years, Wekerle has built a reputation as arguably the savviest trader to ever move stock on Bay Street. He’s a self-made man who’s amassed a vast fortune for himself and just about anyone who’s worked with him, doing so with an eccentric, fun-loving attitude that’s as wild as his wardrobe. Throughout the ’90s, he helped turn Griffiths McBurney & Partners into an international force of trading and was a key figure in taking Research In Motion public. In 2012 — after pulling himself out of depression brought on by the tragic passing of his second wife Lea-Anne, which was followed by late nights of unbridled partying and his very public dismissal from GMP — he became co-founder and chief executive officer of his own company, Difference Capital Financial, a merchant banking firm focused on late-stage technology, media and health-care companies. And, as of this year, he’s also found a seat on Canada’s top reality TV program of the fall, CBC’s Dragons’ Den. Above all that, Lean explains that Wekerle is also a man of his word. As part of his talk at the speaker series, Wekerle promised to offer internships to three of Lean’s MBA students: one at Difference Capital and two others at businesses the firm invested in. He also offered, to the delight of the students, to put anyone’s name on the guest list for the grand opening of the Toronto location of Wahlburgers, actor Mark Wahlberg’s burger chain of which Wekerle is a partner. (Which he also did.) Adds Lean: “He says something, he does it.” Right now, though, that says-something, does-it attitude has his people on edge. It’s just before noon on a rainy autumn day as I stand in one of the kitchens inside Wekerle’s sprawling Forest Hill home. Wekerle is working the camera by his indoor pool as I chat with Carole Cohen-Perez, administrative business director at Difference Capital, and Scott McKay, honorary chair of Road Hockey to Conquer Cancer, of which Wekerle is a board member. We’re discussing Wekerle’s philanthropic work, which includes the more than $300,000 that was raised at his annual charity concert Wekfest, when something catches Cohen-Perez’s eye. “My God, what’s he doing?” she says. We turn and see Wekerle, wearing only his blue jeans and a champagne scarf, sitting on the edge of his pool, kicking up water for the camera. He had joked earlier about a time he jumped in fully clothed and I mention how I hope he’s not thinking about doing the same now. winter 2014/15
“Maybe,” says Cohen-Perez. “Probably,” says McKay. Moments before Wekerle was strumming a Gibson Les Paul, signed by Les Paul himself, and jumping through the air like a seasoned guitar god. Earlier, he was ripping licks from his makeshift studio, opposite his collection of autographed axes from other rock deities such as Black Sabbath, Tom Petty, David Bowie, Ted Nugent and Kurt Cobain. He’s certainly living up to his “rock star business maverick” reputation. “I’ve always been kind of a charismatic guy, so I think I’ve earned my stripes as being the party guy, because I had to,” he says while tuning a 75-year-old Martin acoustic from a large L-shaped couch in his bedroom. He didn’t know anyone in the trading world when he started his career back in 1982, so he had to meet people. “And the best way to meet people was by staying out late at night, trying to make sure you were less drunk than they were.” As he strums the beat-up Martin while wearing a royal blue bespoke Kiton suit, brilliant orange tie and tan leather monk strap shoes, it becomes increasingly apparent that Wekerle’s home is a reflection of himself. Under regal crown mouldings and sparkling chandeliers, behind pristine furniture and Roman columns, hangs art and other collectibles by and of legends of the rock world. Paintings by Ringo Starr greet you at the top of a flight of stairs. A photo of John Lennon wearing a sleeveless New York City shirt by rock ’n’ roll photographer Bob Gruen leads into his sprawling bedroom, which is so big and so elegant it’s literally fit for a king. His indoor pool, too, is surrounded by Rubix cube artwork of Bob Marley, Jagger and Elton John, as well as his children. He’s also a huge fan of Andy Warhol and a number of his works, including Mick Jagger prints and two paintings of chairman Mao, can be found sporadically around the house. “It’s always been that way,” he says when I comment on the various musically inspired works adorning his walls. Wekerle’s friend and mentor Alec Miller suggested that he start collecting artwork early in his career and encouraged him to find pieces he appreciated as opposed to things that were only for decorations’ sake. “You try to do that with everything you do. You try to buy quality and if you buy quality you tend to wear it, you tend to use it, you tend to look at it,” he says. “Everything tends to be a little more meaningful.” Another thing you quickly learn when spending time with Wekerle is that it’s rather difficult to rein him in. He doesn’t seem www.dolcemag.com
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to sit down for an extended period of time, talks with auctioneerlike speed and often takes conversations in unforeseen detours. After a question about how often he practices, he ends up transitioning from how playing the guitar helps him focus to why, when you get to his age, 50, it’s inevitable that your parents will pass away, which his father did only a year ago, and that you should remember to call your mother and tell her that you love her. “You never do it. You always think about it. But then it’s too late one day,” he says. He’s like the wind: impossible to control, taking things where he pleases. You’re just along for the ride. But there’s also something
He’s
in Toronto’s Jane-Finch area realize their potential through guidance and participating in activities they would otherwise not have the opportunity to experience. The program was founded in 2005 by Benjamin Osei, a refugee who escaped the Sierra Leone civil war. While Osei lived in meagre conditions in a basement apartment, he dedicated much of his time to working with youths in the community, trying to guide wayward teens toward a better future. Eventually that work would turn into the Seeds of Hope program and garner praise from community leaders and even then-mayor of Toronto David Miller. But in 2006, Osei was diagnosed with a cancerous tumour in his leg and required surgery. He was bedridden for weeks while recovering. The Globe and Mail published an article on his life and work and it caught Wekerle’s eye. Moved by the story, Wekerle reached out to Osei and offered to fully fund the program. “I had a dream of helping the youth in Jane and Finch and he had the resources to make sure the dream could happen,” says Osei. “If it wasn’t for him, I don’t think the program would be where it is.” Scott Moore, executive director of Youth Unlimited, the charity organization that runs the Seeds of Hope program, explains that many of the youths from the Jane and Finch area are marginalized and feel they don’t have much of a future because of their social standing. Wekerle, he says, is not just a cheque writer who gives money at a distance. “He actually wants to engage with the kids and whenever he’s around them it’s like they’re the centre of the universe, which I just love about his heart — he’s all about the kids.” While still at Griffiths McBurney & Partners, Wekerle offered to bring the children to the firm’s office downtown so they could get a taste of what the business world was like. The kids were picked up in a limo, treated to breakfast at the Royal York and shown how the business operated. One of the kids in the program was an eight-year-old named Andre. “In the second year, Andre came in and said, ‘Who’s boss man?’” Wekerle recalls with a smile. “The last person he checked in with was one of the traders and [the trader] said, ‘I don’t have anything readily available for you,’ and he said, ‘I’ll take money.’ I started laughing, but I ended up forging a relationship with him.” Eventually, Wekerle allowed Andre to work at the firm in the summer, doing simple jobs like getting coffee for the guys at the desk. Wekerle would encourage and help Andre through high school and eventually adopted him as his own. “I call him the Chosen One,” he laughs. Next year Andre will be attending college and Wekerle couldn’t be happier. “Hopefully, change one person’s life and make it better.” When you consider his business prowess, larger-than-life personality and equally as sizable heart, it’s clear to see why the CBC came knocking on his door. When Kevin O’Leary made his exit from Dragons’ Den after the eighth season, a massive vacancy was left to fill. The money-obsessed, bigtalking O’Leary was a fan favourite and questions were raised about whether the show could survive without him. Wekerle proved he was someone who could work the room as much as he could work a deal, and so far he’s been a standout figure. He’s constantly jumping out of his seat, dancing for the
like the wind: impossible to control, taking things where he pleases. You’re just along for the ride
irresistibly magnetic about Wekerle. Yes, his shameless love for rock is immensely cool; his assortment of tattoos, including the Rolling Stones lips and tongue, even more so. But his barefaced honesty and unabashed proclivity for revelry makes him a guy you just want to be around. He’s like that cool uncle who wears fine Italian Chelsea boots and still blasts AC/DC from his convertible. You just want to have a few beers with him and see where his madness takes you. “He’s a one-of-a-kind,” says Toronto city councillor Mark Grimes. “They broke the mould when they made Wek. That’s for sure.” Grimes has been friends with Wekerle for 30 years and first met him when Wekerle got his start on the floor of the Toronto Stock Exchange back in the early ’80s. Grimes used to call Wek “Professor Peabody” because of his keen intellect and tendency to wear circular glasses. “You knew he was an upand-coming-kid, for sure.” Wekerle was only 18 and fell into the job after being fired as a waiter. The TSX had recently moved from Bay Street to the new exchange at First Canadian Place and more staff was needed to run orders. There were plenty of Type A personalities in the ranks of veteran traders, many who didn’t mind pushing around the new guys. But Grimes always came to the aid of Wekerle and other fledgling traders. And Wekerle remembered it. “He’s always said to me, ‘You always looked after me and made sure I was protected down there,’” recalls Grimes. Once Wekerle’s career took off, he stepped up and offered his support, including when Grimes ran for council in 2003. “He’s the first guy to say, ‘How can I help and what can I do for you?’ That’s a great trait of Michael’s.” Which is another thing you quickly learn about Wekerle: he’s incredibly generous. Despite his success in the business world, Wekerle has always done what he can to give back and make time for others. This morning, for example, he insisted I join him for breakfast — a lovely meal of fruit, yogurt and, Wekerle’s favourite, BLTs. Through his annual Wekfest and Wektoberfest, he raises hundreds of thousands of dollars for charities such as SickKids, the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health and YWCA. But it’s Seeds of Hope that is one of his favourite causes. It’s where he met his adopted son. Seeds of Hope is a summer day camp that helps children 44 DOLCE VITA MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com
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Wekerle’s inimitable rock-star fashion sense is as colourful as his personality
room and cracking jokes, and can shift gears from childlike playfulness to shrewd businessman as fast and as smoothly as a Formula One driver. In one episode, when Jim Treliving turned down Wekerle’s offer to partner on a deal, Wekerle made an aggressive counter that put the pitching entrepreneurs on the spot. Treliving made a one-eighty and asked if Wekerle still wanted to partner up. Wekerle cheekily shot back, “No, no, no, Jim. You made your call. You made your call and can’t come back now,” to a chorus of laughter. Wekerle’s television experience was near nil before Dragons’ Den and he went into filming with zero coaching. “I didn’t prepare in any form for Dragons’ Den other than just being myself,” he says. He was given a lot of direction from the show’s producers as well as from Treliving and Dickinson, whom he sat between on the panel. Wekerle found that he had to slow down and get more to the point; his fast-talking ways and tendency to chat was a problem for the bite-sized clips that make it to the air. “It’s not really a talk show. I didn’t know that until about a week into it,” he adds, chuckling. He feels he’s handled the transition “from Bay Street to Main Street” rather well. The newfound fame has even helped him keep the wild, wild Wek in check. “I think I’ve toned down a bit since I’ve been on the show,” says the single father of six. “I think that’s part and parcel with myself having to make winter 2014/15
sure that I’m sensitive to the fact that my children are first and foremost the most important thing in my life.” At one point during the day, we step outside so Wekerle can grab a quick Belmont. I toss out some light questions about his love of music and where it came from. He explains how in his early teens his eldest sister’s boyfriend gave him a few LPs and he started to get into the likes of Pink Floyd, Steve Miller and, of course, the Rolling Stones. He mentions he’ll be doing a few Stones tunes at a show this coming Thursday at the El Mocambo. There’s been plenty of talk about how the El Mo is closing and I mention that it’s a shame they’re shutting it down. “We’re trying to see if we can get a group to revive it, so we’re working on that,” he explains. I pry for some details but he coyly deflects the questions. “Stay tuned on that one.” A few days later, a colleague mentions how Wekerle has just bought a bar in Toronto and I fire up Google to find out what’s what. News headlines pop up stating how the El Mocambo was purchased at the eleventh hour, plucked from near closure, by none other than the bad boy of Bay Street himself, Michael Wekerle. A smile creeps in. I should have seen it coming. After all, when Wekerle says he’s going to do something — well, you know. www.michaelwekerle.ca www.dolcemag.com
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DOLCE VITA MAGAZINE 45
ALL THAT GLITTERS Blue, gold and silver shimmer from winter’s jewelry box. Slip them on to make your season dazzle
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1. Keep brilliance at your fingertips with an aquamarine stone encircled by diamonds and embedded in a platinum ring — a striking trio to make a winter ensemble unforgettable. www.1stdibs.com
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2. As playful as they are luxurious, these 18-karat gold lip cufflinks by Michael Kanners let your suit do the flirting for you. www.1stdibs.com
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4. Rediscover the romance of diamonds and 14-karat gold with these teardrop earrings by Jordan Alexander. www.1stdibs.com
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6. Platinum and white diamond pair to create a luminous presentation of love and luxury in this 8.03-carat cushion-cut ring. www.1stdibs.com 46 DOLCE VITA MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com
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5. Designed as a celebration of a milestone, this 18-karat gold and white gold “memory” ring by Maximilian Hemmerle for RenéSim holds eight precious diamonds. www.1stdibs.com
TEXT BY AMANDA STOREY
3. A treasure that would have made even Audrey envious, this Bulgari Lucea diamond choker shimmers with 18-karat gold and diamond stones.
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Catch our video coverage of this shoot at
EDEN WHILE THE WINTRY WORLD WAITS TO BE KISSED BY WARMER MONTHS, FASHION BLOOMS TO LIFE WITH WHIMSICAL FLORALS AND WHISPERS OF SILK
TEXT BY AMANDA STOREY
Don’t let winter be a thorn in your side. Brighten the darker season with garden-inspired patterns in lighter-than-air fabrics Dress, Free People
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Create an artist’s canvas of yourself by playing with hues that delight the eye and spark the mind Dress, Vansteph; Earrings, Stella & Dot
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FROM LUSH AND VIBRANT TO DELICATE AND FEMININE, SELECT PIECES TRANSPORT THE SENSES TO SOMEWHERE BRIGHT
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Excite white with extravagant textures, in-the-moment hues and accessories that pop Left — Shirt, Goosecraft; Necklace, Stella & Dot; Skirt, Holy Ghost Clothing Right — Dress, Chyvón; Jacket, Baum und Pferdgarten
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Winter’s garden is alive with evergreen and sparkling white. Complement your surroundings with airy gowns that make a statement Dress, Anna Kania Couture
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Patterns and textures should be toyed with. Keep in the heat while adding endless interest by layering unexpected pieces Left — Headpiece, Nicki Marquardt München; Cardigan, GAS Jeans; Dress, Vansteph; Shoes, New Look Right — Blouse, Schneiders; Dress, Raoul; Bracelet, Stella & Dot 52 DOLCE VITA MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com
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A whirlwind of white lace and soft details proves that even snowstorms can be beautiful. Don this dainty yet fashion-forward gown any day of the year Dress, Irene Luft
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Wrapped in a blissfully soft, blush-hued gown, you’ll whisk onlookers into wonderment Dress, Chyvón; Pants, ByDanie; Shoes, Stella McCartney
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PHOTOGRAPHER Bela Raba STYLIST Sigi Brettner — lesARTISTS HAIR AND MAKEUP Alexander Hofmann — Agentur Uschi Rabe SET DESIGN Ariane Raba MODELS Christina R and Gabriela Linhares — Most Wanted ASSISTANTS Philipp Koch and Lisa Staudacher POST PRODUCTION Jay Fritz
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Your mouth deserves a little luxury, too. Dior’s Diorific Golden Shock lipstick in Ardent Shock wraps the lips in silky colour and a hint of shine. www.dior.com Don’t let the snow out-shimmer you. Soft and light, Chanel’s limited-edition Camélia De Plumes highlighting powder illuminates dull, winterized skin without causing too much drama. www.chanel.com
WINTER BELLE
Slip these wintertime essentials into your beauty bag to keep your cool during these snowier months
TEXT BY AMANDA STOREY
Let your falsies take a holiday and pick up Givenchy’s Phenomen’Eyes mascara instead. An inventive wand coats lashes from the roots to the tips, perfectly curling and separating. www.sephora.com Aromatherapy Associates ates co-founder Geraldine Howard ward created this scent as a source e of strength during her battle with h cancer. Ten per cent of proceeds eds from this beautful bath and shower wer oil are donated to the Defence nce Against Cancer Foundation. ion. www.aromatherapyassociates.com s.com
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DOLCE VITA MAGAZINE 55
THE
ONE-BILLION DOLLAR BUILDING Developer Sam Mizrahi has landed what is arguably the most prestigious address in Toronto, 1 Bloor Street West. What he plans on doing with it could be a game-changer for the city WRITTEN BY MICHAEL HILL
No
one seems to notice Sam Mizrahi as he stands in the middle of the intersection of Bloor and Yonge streets, posing for the camera during the scramble crosswalk on a misty autumn afternoon. It’s ironic that nobody pays any mind to the 43-year-old developer, because, in a few years, it’s going to be impossible to miss what he’s done. Back in October, the president of Mizrahi Developments acquired a number of contiguous properties on the corner of Yonge and Bloor, including long-standing Toronto menswear retailer Stollery’s, for over $200 million. The plan for the site is to build a luxury condominium high-rise — a standard practice for developers in this condorich, modern T.O. But Mizrahi’s vision is anything but standard, and it would certainly have to be when you consider the address that comes with it. 56 DOLCE VITA MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com
“One Bloor Street West, it doesn’t get any better than that,” says Mizrahi from his company’s office on Hazelton Avenue. For Mizrahi, the Yonge-Bloor intersection is the most important real estate corner in the city — if not the country — and he has good reason to believe so. Over 51,000 pedestrians cross those streets every day, making it not only the busiest corner of the Mink Mile, the heart of upscale shopping in Toronto, but one of the busiest in the city. Mizrahi fully appreciates its significance. The building he envisions is both “epic and iconic,” a landmark on par with renowned structures of other world cities. “We wanted this to be the Rockefeller Center or the Chrysler Building or the Empire State Building for Toronto. And this is the corner to do it in,” he explains. The project will be the first billion-dollar residential/ commercial building in the country and he’s already dubbed the new development “The One” to match both the address and his grand vision. While the project is still in the initial planning stage, Mizrahi explains that The One will feature amenities such as a rooftop terrace, underground parking for residents and the public, doormen and valet service, gardens,
pools, restaurants and be connected to the underground PATH network for easy access to the subway. It’s too early to say what its height will be, and he won’t get into the specifics, but Mizrahi notes that The One will be comparable in scale and context to surrounding developments. Great Gulf Homes’ One Bloor East climbs skyward right across the street and will peak at 75 storeys. One wonders if Mizrahi will dare to go higher. Being a cornerstone of the Mink Mile, retail will also be a crucial component of the building’s street presence. Mizrahi explains that retail space is being custom designed with no columns or pillars obstructing the line of sight to house flagship stores from top international brands. He can’t say which retailers he’s in talks with, only that they’re “the ones” in their respective sectors. “When I picked the name for the building, The One, it really spoke to so many different elements,” he says. “It not only spoke to the address being 1 Bloor Street West, it also spoke to how this is WINTER 2014/15
PHOTO BY JESSE MILNS
President of Mizrahi Developments Sam Mizrahi stands at the corner of Yonge and Bloor with long-standing menswear retailer Stollery’s behind him. Mizrahi recently purchased Stollery’s and several adjacent properties for over $200 million and plans to erect a landmark mixed-used skyscraper on the site WINTER 2014/15
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“WE WANTED THIS TO BE THE ROCKEFELLER CENTER OR THE CHRYSLER BUILDING OR THE EMPIRE STATE BUILDING FOR TORONTO” — Sam Mizrahi
the one location — a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to do something special — but more importantly, the retailers that are coming in are really the ones of their industry. So you’re getting the best-ofbreed in each sector.” Mizrahi certainly isn’t the first developer to propose a project with these types of lofty ambitions. For the past several years, Toronto has been the leader of under-construction high-rise projects in North America, and there are many aiming to make their mark. Canderel Residential’s Aura skyscraper on the corner of Yonge and Gerrard is currently Canada’s tallest residential tower at 78 storeys. David Mirvish has gone back and forth with the city since 2012 about the colossal Frank Gehrydesigned towers he wants to erect on King Street West. When One Bloor East is finished, the wavy, ultramodern, mixed-used high-rise will be Toronto’s second tallest residential tower. The contemporary glass-and-steel template for high-rises has become the norm for virtually every developer in the city. While eye-catching, that type of design also carries risk: they may be trendy and fashionable, but fashion becomes dated, goes out of style, and trends fade. Mizrahi isn’t in the fashion game. He wants timeless. “We want to make something that we would be proud of long after we’re gone,” says Mizrahi. “We want to build something that you would see on Fifth Avenue, that you would see on Avenue Montaigne in Paris, something that you would see in London in Knightsbridge.” This mindset was a cornerstone of his last two boutique developments, 58 DOLCE VITA MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com
133 Hazelton and 181 Davenport, and one that won over Stollery’s co-owner Edwin Whaley. Whaley explains he’s had offers to buy Stollery’s prestigious address since 1968, but in the past five years interest has intensified. Nearly every day he was getting calls from over 30 developers from around the world trying to convince him to sell. Near the end of 2013, Mizrahi approached Whaley to do the same. The two found an instant chemistry and over the next 10 months built a rapport that became the foundation of the sale. “He’s a real gentleman,” says Whaley. “This man has vision and he likes the old-world type buildings where it’s got history and character and stability and looks like it’s going to be around for a while. So that’s basically what caught my eye in the first place.” Whaley was reluctant to sell, but he saw how the city was changing. “You look at what’s happening on this street and it’s time,” he says. “It’s time for it to be replaced with a nice building.” He appreciated the use of cut limestone and enduring European style of 133 Hazelton and 181 Davenport and is confident Mizrahi will build something beautiful that will stand the test of time, adding, “It will do justice for the corner of Bloor and Yonge.” For Mizrahi, there is a “significant moral responsibility” attached to the corner. The One is easily the biggest project the company has ever taken on, and he feels the pressure. “But it’s good pressure,” he says. “It’s constructive pressure.” It’s the type of pressure that elevates you to perform at a higher level, “forcing you to expand your own vision and your horizons and do something with really no limits.”
Perhaps one of the most interesting aspects of the project is the choice of architect. Mizrahi has brought in Norman Foster of Foster + Partners, who will be collaborating with CORE Architects here in Toronto. Foster is one of the world’s leading and most famous architects as well as a Pritzker Prize winner, so his talent is undeniable. But he’s also known as a practitioner of high-tech architecture and his oeuvre is filled with sleek, highly modern work, such as 30 St. Mary Axe in London, England, the Hearst Tower in New York City and the London City Hall. Much of his work is far more future-forward than the classic style of Mizrahi’s previous developments, so it will be interesting to see what Foster brings to the table in terms of design. When asked how he will measure the success of the building, Mizrahi explains it will be how The One embraces the community and those that use it. A building, he says, needs to have a soul, it needs to make people feel welcome and lift their moods when they enter. “It needs to make you feel like you want to belong there and you want to be there,” he says. “And you want to be able to look around and be wowed by all the details and the experience that you have. That’s the way we’re going to measure success on this building: does it do that? Can you feel the soul of the building?” And as work begins on The One in the coming months and years, that’s something that will be impossible to miss. www.mizrahidevelopments.com WINTER 2014/15
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DOLCE VITA MAGAZINE 59
Academy Award-winning filmmaker Paul Haggis
SALVATION
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PHOTO BY JOHN PACKMAN
CELESTIAL
The stars have aligned in Haiti, where Artists for Peace and Justice — the celebrity-studded non-profit founded by Academy Award-winning filmmaker Paul Haggis — helps make magic happen WRITTEN BY AMANDA STOREY
PHOTOS COURTESY OF ARTISTS FOR PEACE AND JUSTICE
A
cademy Award-winning filmmaker Paul Haggis sits comfortably in the corner of a bustling, star-studded party at the NKPR agency headquarters in Toronto’s west end. The shindig is welcoming celebrities and local VIPs to a little pocket of Hollywood in the heart of Toronto, but despite the flowing bubbly, thumping music and film-themed chitchat surrounding him, Haggis’s mind is nearly 3,000 kilometres south of here. The Crash director was in town this past September for his sixth annual Artists for Peace and Justice Festival Gala, a fundraiser that has become something of an earmark for philanthropists and celebrities. Sponsored by long-term partner Bovet 1822, co-hosted by George Stroumboulopoulos and co-chaired by Sylvia Mantella and Natasha Koifman, a night of glamour and giving back unfolded as A-list do-gooders flocked to the faux castle grounds of Casa Loma for the illustrious affair benefiting Artists for Peace and Justice (APJ), the non-profit, Haiti-focused organization headed by Haggis. Though he’s a native of London, Ont. and now calls California home, Haggis considers Haiti his happy place. “It’s a cliché, but the Haitian people have nothing except joy,” says Haggis, who also penned the critically acclaimed screenplay for Casino Royale. “It’s a hard life, but also, somehow, it is infused with this real enjoyment of the everyday. Once you get to know these folks, you find it hard not to smile when you’re around them. It really, truly, is contagious.” It was there, in the poorest country in the Caribbean, where Haggis first sparked the revolutionary concept of APJ, an organization that empowers Haitians and elevates the philanthropic model. It was 2008 during his visit to Haiti that Haggis met Fr. Rick Frechette, an American doctor and community
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organizer who had been working there for over two decades. Frechette and his Haitian team ran the St. Luke Foundation, constructing orphanages, medical clinics, schools and other institutions to strengthen citizens and, in the long run, the country. The meeting sent Haggis back to the U.S. filled with the kind of inspiration a scriptwriter has moments before putting his/her pen to paper. Six years have passed, and APJ is now a blossoming assembly of some of the world’s brightest stars and luminaries, all committed to supporting the tremendous efforts of the St. Luke Foundation. APJ is most notably working on funding two secondary schools in Haiti, the Academy for Peace and Justice in Port-au-Prince — the country’s first of its kind that offers all students full scholarships — and the Artists Institute in Jacmel, which exists to feed and fine-tune the abundance of creativity that exists in young Haitians. All of this is operated under a philosophy that sounds almost too good
to be true. Knowing that all too often generous hearts get taken advantage of by pseudo-charities, APJ has become known for maintaining organizationwide accountability and transparency — a rarity in today’s philanthropic industry. “We have corporations that pay all the costs, and the costs are very low,” says Haggis. “Early on I realized that if I’m going to ask my friends to give money, I’d better know exactly where every dollar is going so that we don’t waste money.” Haggis proves this by having the foundation’s annual audit regularly posted online for interested donors to review. And judging by the $18 million that APJ has raised over the past six years to fund the St. Luke Foundation’s various health-care and educational projects, the honesty policy appears to be delivering good karma for Haggis and his team. With a board of directors boasting the likes of Ben Stiller, Olivia Wilde and Gerard Butler, and an advisory board
Paul Haggis speaks to film students at the Artists Institute, the free college for arts and technology funded by Artists for Peace and Justice (APJ) www.dolcemag.com
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DOLCE VITA MAGAZINE 61
HAVE A QUESTION ABOUT REAL ESTATE, COMMUNITY OR PHILANTHROPY?
Just ask Alex! Paul Haggis and APJ board members Gerard Butler, Ben Stiller, Olivia Wilde and supporters walk the land in Haiti that was just purchased for the Academy for Peace and Justice
CONNECTING YOU IN THE COMMUNITY
WITH THE COMMUNITY
FOR THE COMMUNITY
Salesperson 416-987-8000
Director 416-782-4445
Co-Founder 905-850-8400
“Providing real estate solutions you want, because I listen when you ask.”
Empowering Young Women
Sunday, January 25 , 2015 Ryerson University th
A Night in Red
Thursday, March 5th, 2015 Tappo Wine Bar
416-455-6683 • alex@alexlombardi.ca • www.alexlombardi.ca
“IT’S A CLICHÉ, BUT THE HAITIAN PEOPLE HAVE NOTHING EXCEPT JOY. IT’S A HARD LIFE, BUT ALSO, SOMEHOW, IT IS INFUSED WITH THIS REAL ENJOYMENT OF THE EVERYDAY. ONCE YOU GET TO KNOW THESE FOLKS, YOU FIND IT HARD NOT TO SMILE WHEN YOU’RE AROUND THEM. IT REALLY, TRULY, IS CONTAGIOUS” — Paul Haggis comprised of Adrien Brody, Russell Crowe, Clint Eastwood, Jane Fonda, James Franco, Diane Lane, Jude Law and a handful of other names, the organization truly is a band of artists. But these celebrities aren’t simply poster people for the cause, they’re truly passionate about making it happen — and they’re not afraid to get their hands dirty in the process. Susan Sarandon recently returned from her own voyage to the school campuses, and Demi Moore, Butler, Stiller and Wilde — among others — have all flown down to Haiti to chip in as well. Despite the mega-watt personalities attached to the organization, Haggis assures that in terms of the makeup of the foundation, as integral as the artists are to the cause, he wants the public to focus more on the “Peace and Justice” part. “APJ is really different because these projects are theirs, not ours. The Haitian people know what they need, they just require the growth, so we provide the money and they do the work. Our schools are designed by Haitians, built by Haitians, administered, taught — everything. It’s a 100 per cent Haitian organization.” Under a September night sky at Casa Loma, the 2014 Artists for Peace and Justice fundraiser gala saw actor Madeleine Stowe and philanthropist Kate Daniels each pledge $500,000 to APJ for the next five years. Every dollar of the impressive $1.5 million total amount raised at the event went directly to Haiti. When you ask Haggis what the best part of APJ is, his answer is as poetic as his screenplays and as honest as the charity he’s built. “You get joy from seeing these kids, from seeing them flourish, from seeing them get an education and have opportunities they wouldn’t have any other way,” he says. Then, with a chuckle: “That’s a bit selfish.” www.apjnow.org
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for clients, friends and family. “Our new entertaining division, led by our director of business development, John Xuereb, aims to offer the same value and service to companies that are looking for the same quality and prestige that Pusateri’s offers our traditional customers,” says Pusateri, who is excited to announce that Pusateri’s recently secured a liquor delivery service licence. As one of the
AT THE HEART OF ENTERTAINING PHOTO BY JOHN PACKMAN
Pusateri’s Fine Foods now a one-stop-shop for traditional customers and entertainers
“ENTERTAINING IS ABOUT CREATING AN ENVIRONMENT THAT IS SPECIAL, WARM, INVITING AND FUN” — Paolo Pusateri
A
nyone who knows good food in Toronto knows about the artisanal groceries lining the aisles of Pusateri’s — that row of aged balsamic vinegars and fine Italian olive oils, that display of tempting truffles and fine cheeses imported from Europe. Since its flagship store on Avenue Road opened in 1986, the iconic family-run business has dedicated itself to offering exclusive and fine foods you’d be hardpressed to find elsewhere. And although the luxe grocer continues to excel in the specialty food category, its latest offerings tell the story of a company seamlessly adapting to its customers’ growing entertaining needs. “Entertaining is about creating an environment that is special, warm, inviting and fun,” says brand manager Paolo Pusateri, who has seen the fine food retailer’s at-home hosting service for holiday entertainers continuing to grow in popularity. Staying true to its roots of delivering an elevated approach to gastronomy, Pusateri adds that the company’s full-service event catering, co-ordination and production services WINTER 2014/15
now includes re-launched corporate and event menus for both large and small parties. But it’s Pusateri’s latest venture into flowers and plants that pushes the creative envelope and adds that extra edge to a company most known for its commitment to quality. The Pusateri’s Luxury Home and Floral Shop offers designer-crafted bouquets and stunning arrangements that are perfect for gifts, livening up the home and office, and accentuating special occasions. From lush roses and succulents to beautiful orchids and more, the Floral Shop’s elegant and creative designs are making their mark in the event industry as brides-to-be and other celebratoryminded customers turn to the blooming new service. Other additional offerings include the Pusateri’s corporate gifting program and enhancements to its luxury premium gift basket service, which has been a hit with its loyal base of customers for nearly 20 years. Featuring an unrivalled selection of the finest foods from around the world, the baskets make perfect gifts
Newly launched event and corporate catering menus fuse cutting-edge culinary techniques with a globally inspired palate
PHOTO BY LELANIA LITTLE
The Pusateri’s Luxury Home and Floral Shop’s stunning arrangements are perfect for gifts, energizing the home and office, and transforming special occasions into memorable ones
rare few providers to legally offer wine with its gift baskets, Pusateri’s paves the way in innovative and convenient gifting. Whether at home with family and friends or at the office with colleagues and associates, Pusateri’s recent foray into these key service categories results in the delivery of a start-to-finish entertaining and gifting experience that is proving successful at streamlining customers’ needs for that little something more. www.pusateris.com www.dolcemag.com
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DOLCE VITA MAGAZINE 63
Ross Petty in his North York home. Petty’s annual pantomime production at the Elgin Theatre has been a tradition in Toronto for nearly two decades
THE
PANTOMIME KING At home with Toronto’s premier producer of pantomime, the man (dressed as a woman) we love to hate, Ross Petty WRITTEN BY MICHAEL HILL PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN PACKMAN
I
t’s a chaotic time for Ross Petty. He’s just 10 days away from the start of rehearsals for his annual pantomime production and there’s still a script to finalize and lines to memorize. Not that the script is ever really final or that he ever fully memorizes those lines. That’s how it’s
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been for the past two decades, and it’s all part of the fun. “We’re going into our 19th year [at the Elgin Theatre],” he says from the living room of his North York home. “It’s really something I’m proud of that we’ve been able to create this family tradition over the winter holidays.”
Wearing blue jeans, a salmon dress shirt and a black shawl cardigan, the alabaster-haired actor/producer is everything but the outlandishly silly fiends he’s so known for on stage. He’s well mannered and welcoming, a raconteur that wields silky charm and the timing of a seasoned showman. His WINTER 2014/15
home, an original farmhouse in the area, is over 150 years old and is equally as pleasant, with a rustic appeal that pays homage to its simple past. He shares his home with his wife, celebrated Canadian ballet dancer Karen Kain, and their cat, a Maine coon named Eddie. It’s a peaceful setting, a sharp contrast to his life in the limelight. Through bucketloads of silliness, and the odd tongue-in-cheek zinger, Petty turns classic stories on their heads with his “fractured” fairytales. These sidesplitting shows draw audiences both young and old, and have become a staple of the holiday season in Toronto. This year they’re returning to Cinderella, and Petty, as usual, is the bad guy — or, more accurately, the “bad girl.” “I’m the bad girl this year, the evil stepmom,” he says of his dressed-in-drag role. Playing the villain isn’t anything new to Petty. The playful boos hurled at him have become just about as traditional as his annual panto — and he’s completely cool with it. “The audience is always screaming at me,” he chuckles. “I’m the guy they love to hate every year. That’s fine by me.” If they get too rowdy, he’ll jump off the stage, find the source and stare them down, or maybe even end up on their lap. It’s all part of the off-the-cuff style that keeps people coming back every year. Petty did his first pantomime in 1984 when British producers were testing the style in the Canadian waters. It proved to be a hit. When he entered into his 40s he wanted to take control of his career, to no longer be at the mercy of casting directors or producers. “It’s a young man’s game, I think,” he says of the auditioning process. “So I decided that I wanted to take some protection against not getting the work as the years progressed and created my own company.” When he started Ross Petty Productions, pantomime was the obvious choice, and he’s never looked back. When asked why he’s stuck with comedy all these years, he laughs heartily. “What do I want to do, Checkhov?” He loves that people have a good time at his productions and always leave happy. “People say, ‘Do WINTER 2014/15
“PEOPLE SAY, ‘DO YOU WANT TO DO ANYTHING ELSE?’ I SAY, ‘NO, I’M QUITE SATISFIED DOING COMEDY’” — Ross Petty
Petty and his cat, a Maine coon named Eddie
you want to do anything else?’ I say, ‘No, I’m quite satisfied doing comedy.’” Ever since he was a child, Petty has been drawn to comedy. He still remembers those Sunday nights when he would drop everything to catch Wayne and Shuster. But it was Sid Caesar who showed him the power of improvisation. Petty once shared the stage with the American comic and Ginger Rogers in a production of Cole Porter’s Anything Goes. Petty was third-billed to Caesar and Rogers, but he worked closely with Caesar as they shared a number of scenes. Caesar was known for ad libbing, and while Anything Goes was a scripted performance, he would often go off the book or address the audience directly. “I’d never seen that before,” says Petty. “He actually was the one that showed me that you can step away from the character and interact with the audience.” While this year’s show features Cinderella as an organic farmer and the evil stepmother pushing her hypnotic GMOs, Petty notes his show isn’t political in its message: “We’re more basic than that.” But, he concedes, they always try to portray their heroines as more than the love-seeking victim who only finds happiness in marrying a man. “We like to really underline the fact that our heroines really have a steel rod up their spines,” he says. “They know what they want and they will do whatever they can to come to that end.” There is romance to his shows, for that happy ending, but the female figures take action and become the conclusions of their own story. Petty knows his pantomime is often the first experience many children have with live theatre, so these positive messages are important. But above all, he wants children, and their parents, to have fun at his shows. These children are the audiences of the future. He wants to nurture their minds and cultivate an appreciation for ballet, opera and, of course, theatre. As he concludes, “I think it’s important.” www.rosspetty.com www.dolcemag.com
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DOLCE VITA MAGAZINE 65
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OBJECTSof DESIRE
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An eco-friendly hydrofoil electric “sports car” for the water just sped onto the automotive scene. Like a machine torn from a futuristic film, the Quadrofoil is an imaginative take on the personal watercraft. www.quadrofoil.com
2
Mulberry sprung ahead with its SS15 collection, using an inventive mix of metallics and neutrals, and honeycombinspired patterns that are as sweet as the real thing. www.mulberry.com
3
Winter’s never been so bright: a diamond masterpiece from renowned Montreal-based jeweler Maison Birks adds a touch of sparkle and light to even the darkest days. www.maisonbirks.com
4
Coffee takes you to the next level, and the Impressa F8 TFT from Jura takes coffee to the next level. New and made in Canada, this next-generation espresso machine promises ease and great taste for the first-class coffee lover. www.qc.jura.com
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TEXT BY AMANDA STOREY
4 WINTER 2014/15
56 5
One hundred hund per cent cashmere is always a good idea. This Medieval alw Animal Cashmere Shawl from Holland A and Holland depicts a classic medieval design that, twined with ultimate softness, makes a statement piece for winter. www.hollandandholland.com
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Net-A-Porter Premier is the online shopper’s dream: a truly VIP experience, it offers ease and luxury from the moment you click “order” to the second your package arrives. www.net-a-porter.com
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Guns Clothing claims to create the world’s best-fitting shirts, and we’re convinced. Inspired by the raw masculinity of ’80s and ’90s action heroes, these tees focus on fit, not frills. www.gunsclothing.com
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Before you retire your holiday cheer, pay a visit to Brown’s Hotel in London, where British luggage company Globe-Trotter has crafted festive decorations that will leave a lasting impression. www.roccofortehotels.com
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Your body is a temple, so adorn it like a kingdom. Menswear label Kingdom makes this happen with its dapper collection for the cooler months, complete with historic silhouettes in mod hues and textures. www.kingdom-london.com
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FROM ARTISANAL SODA TO THE WORLD’S BESTFITTING T-SHIRT, THESE ARE A FEW OF OUR FAVOURITE THINGS
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At just over a year old, Montreal’s super-hip, high-end tonic company 3/4 Oz. Tonic Maison just launched its newest syrup product, Kola Artisanal. Prepare to sip in ultimate style. www.34oz.ca
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In memoriam of Montreal photographer Jane Heller, who lost her battle with cancer in early 2014, the souk@sat exhibition featured inventive creations and raised funds for the artist’s 10-year-old daughter. souk.sat.qc.ca/en/
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DOLCE VITA MAGAZINE 67
THE ENERGY OF THE
Toronto-based design firm +tongtong played with Barcelona’s three favourite colours to ignite the city’s ambience in the restaurant space 68 DOLCE VITA MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com
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PHOTOS BY LISA PETROLE PHOTOGRAPHY
RUNNING BULLS
Traditional patterns clash with bold modernism in the most attractive way possible throughout the space
Barcelona thunders to life in this small, design-savvy Toronto underground restaurant WRITTEN BY AMANDA STOREY
D
on’t get us wrong: the food at Toronto’s brand-new Spanish-inspired tapas restaurant Barsa Taberna is to die for. But diners may find it challenging to focus on their taste buds while surrounded by the eatery’s mindtickling décor. It’s said that a restaurant should introduce a multi-sensory experience to its guests — and +tongtong, the multidisciplinary studio commissioned to design Barsa Taberna, took that truth to heart by putting together the culturally injected space. It’s all very unexpected, beginning with the restaurant’s mostly subterranean location. Despite being underground,
there’s enough illumination to play off the Barcelona-inspired décor, which fools around with the city’s signature hues of blue, yellow and red. Old-timey, rustic brick and wood fuse with ultra-mod and architecturally charged pieces of furniture that might have guests wondering if they’re seated on an artist’s work-in-progress. It’s a heart-thumping, eye-popping scene that indulges the senses with rich textures that perhaps aren’t seen in the everyday. From the architecture to the art, Barsa Taberna, the latest masterpiece by Toronto-based +tongtong, chases the culinary experience awake like Barcelona’s running bulls. www.barsataberna.com
Art is essential in Barsa Taberna, which sets a beautiful backdrop for its authentic Spanish-inspired cuisine
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www.dolcemag.com
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DOLCE VITA MAGAZINE 69
ALEXA HAMPTON
WANDA JELMINI
THOM FILICIA SEBASTIAN HERKNER
IDS15
JONATHAN ADLER
PHILIPPE MALOUIN
Welcome to the red carpet of interior design events: This year’s Interior Design Show in Toronto promises some of the industry’s most celebrated names WRITTEN BY AMANDA STOREY
T
he annual Interior Design Show has turned the eyes of the design world on Toronto since 1999, but this year’s rendition of the highly anticipated event will have industry insiders floored with its roster of soughtafter special guests and happenings. IDS15, which will take over the Metro Toronto Convention Centre’s North Building from Jan. 22 to 25, 2015, will welcome design shakers and makers to speak and collaborate, revving the creative engines of designers and designlovers alike. The sightings begin on Jan. 23 with Azure Trade Talks, during which IDS15’s international guest of honour Wanda Jelmini, creative director at T&J Vestor for Missoni Home, will take to the main stage to share her experiences, insider know-how and cultured perspectives. Jelmini will be joined by Sebastian Herkner, Germany’s couturesavvy furniture designer who studied under Stella McCartney. Award-winning architectural powerhouse Marlon
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WITH AN ABUNDANCE OF INSTALLATIONS, PRESENTATIONS AND TALKS, IDS15 IS AN UNMISSABLE SOURCE OF INSPIRATION FOR DESIGN ADDICTS Blackwell will be the final speaker to take the stage on the Friday of IDS15, inspiring showgoers with a colourful collection of memories and insight. Sequeling Azure Trade Talks is Globe Style Saturday on Jan. 24, which will begin with a bang as iconic potter Jonathan Adler steps onto the main stage. A vibrant presentation is expected from the designer, who’s taken part in collaborations with some of the brightest brands in the world. Thom Filicia, interior designer and television star, will also appear on the Saturday to chat
about vacation homes and vintage and antique pieces. Finally, Alexa Hampton, president and owner of New York Citybased design firm Mark Hampton LLC and who holds a spot on Architectural Digest’s top-100 list of the world’s best interior designers and architects, will divulge her love of architecture and strict lines that have skyrocketed her to the forefront of her industry. Rising star Philippe Malouin will also be at the Show to unveil his first-ever collaboration with Caesarstone. Malouin, a Montreal-born, London-based designer, was invited by the kitchen and bath countertop company to get crafty with its quartz surface materials to create a playful and reminiscent installation that pulls inspiration from childhood memory and nostalgia. Fine-tune your eyes and ears: IDS15 is fast approaching, and with an abundance of installations, presentations and talks waiting to be savoured, it’s an unmissable source of inspiration for design addicts. www.interiordesignshow.com WINTER 2014/15
JONATHAN ADLER PHOTO BY JONATHAN ADLER ENTERPRISES, LLC | SEBASTIAN HERKNER PHOTO BY INGMAR KURTH | MARLON BLACKWELL PHOTO COURTESY OF MARLON BLACKWELL ARCHITECTS THOM FILICIA PHOTO COURTESY OF THOM FILICIA, INC. | ALEXA HAMPTON PHOTO BY ANDREW FRENCH | WANDA JELMINI PHOTO COURTESY OF MISSONI HOME | PHILIPPE MALOUIN PHOTO BY JUSTIN BORBELY
MARLON BLACKWELL
DAUGHTER OF HISTORY:
MARY SOAMES AND THE LEGACY OF CHURCHILL WRITTEN BY FRANCES CHRISTIE
Left: Winston Churchill’s red Morocco leather dispatch box from his time as Secretary of State for the Colonies
PHOTOS COURTESY OF SOTHEBY’S
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n Dec. 17, 2014, Sotheby’s London will present a major sale of paintings and objects from the estate of one of the most outstanding women of her era — the late Mary Soames (1922-2014). The last surviving child of Winston Churchill, Mary Soames witnessed first-hand, and often close by her father’s side, many key moments of 20th-century history. A junior commander in the ATS during the war, she also acted as Churchill’s aide-de-camp and close confidante, becoming privy to critical wartime negotiations and meeting along the way leading figures such as de Gaulle, Eisenhower, Stalin, Montgomery, Roosevelt and Mackenzie King, many of whom became close personal friends. Sotheby’s sale will include many of the personal possessions that Mary Soames lived with in her delightful home in London. Together, they chart Soames’ fascinating life — from her childhood at Chartwell to her service in the army during the Second World War and her later public and private life — and chronicle the remarkable relationship Soames enjoyed with her father, allowing for a unique and very moving insight into the private side of Britain’s greatest wartime leader. At the same time, Churchill’s exceptional ability as a painter is celebrated in the sale through 15 paintings, the most important and personal group of his paintings ever to come to the market. Together, these paintings depict a sensitive and compassionate side to the WINTER 2014/15
Left: Sir Winston Spencer Churchill, Battlements at Carcassonne, 1930s ©Churchill Heritage Ltd Above: Sir Winston Spencer Churchill, The Weald of Kent Under Snow, c. 1935 ©Churchill Heritage Ltd
great statesman, encapsulating his zest for life and the immense pleasure that painting gave him. Each of the pictures captures deeply personal moments in Churchill’s life: his contentment at Chartwell, his family home for 40 years overlooking the Weald of Kent; his love of the gardens; holidays abroad, particularly in France, a country he greatly loved; the friends he visited and houses where he stayed on these travels. Winston Churchill discovered painting when he was 40, in the wake of the debacle of the 1915 Dardanelles campaign, which, as First Lord of the Admiralty, he had been responsible for instigating. From this moment on, painting was to form an essential part of his life and he rarely travelled without his paintbox. On many occasions — both in his political and in his private life — the “Muse of Painting came to his rescue.”1 As Soames said, “Painting not only opened up for my father a complete new world of colour, of light and shade, of proportion and perspective, but I am convinced this compelling occupation played a real part in enabling him to confront storms, ride out depressions, and to rise above the rough passages of his political life.” With estimates ranging from £40
to £400,000, the 280-lot sale will also include decorative arts (furniture, ceramics, silver, objects of vertu), jewelry, books, manuscripts and photographs. Soames played a key role, both in safeguarding and perpetuating her father’s legacy in the postwar decades and in bringing his paintings to a wider public audience. As the 50th year since Sir Winston Churchill’s death approaches, it is a huge honour to have been entrusted with this sale. 1. Sir Winston Churchill, Painting as a Pastime, Hazell, Watson & Viney, Ltd., Aylesbury and London, 1949 Frances Christie Guest History Editor Frances Christie is the head of modern and postwar British art at Sotheby’s, where for 12 years she has been closely involved in the sale of many major British collections to come to market. Highlights of her career include the Collection of Lord and Lady Attenborough in 2009, the Robert Devereux Collection of Post-War British Art in 2010, and the Evill/ Frost Collection in 2011, which achieved the highest ever total for a sale of modern and postwar British art. sothebys.com www.dolcemag.com
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DOLCE VITA MAGAZINE 71
2015 CADILLAC
: ESCALADE RETURN OF THE KING The Big Daddy of the Cadillac lineup is back with a burly new engine and that same head-turning swagger WRITTEN BY JUSTIN MASTINE-FROST
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W
hen Cadillac first set out to build an SUV for 1999, the stakes were high. The BMW X5 was on its way to market that same year and the MercedesBenz ML had been on the road for a little over a year, as had its prime competition, the Lincoln Navigator. The Germans have kept the upper hand for some time when it comes to on-road handling, but the Escalade has long been the first choice for luxury SUV buyers looking for premium finishes, an excess of cargo and passenger space and, more importantly, that glorious street presence the Escalade has become synonymous with over the years. After all, nothing says “Don’t mess with us” like rolling up in a big black Caddy. Freshly redesigned for 2015, the new Escalade is by far the best looking example to date. Cadillac’s art and science design language was taken to the new Escalade in full force, and it seems to work brilliantly on this updated SUV. Its massive grille and swept back headlights are just similar enough to those of the Cadillac ATS and CTS, and the character lines of its front fenders cut right along the entire side of the Escalade, elongating its already massive profile. With so many big and bold styling cues, you could easily miss the laser-etched Cadillac logos hidden away in the base of its tail lights. In the demographic of plus-sized SUVs, it’s safe to say the Cadillac is ahead of the pack in terms of style. Once designers are forced to pen a long-wheelbase SUV, things can go a little pear-shaped (case in point, the Infiniti QX80), but the Escalade looks great from just about every angle. Climbing into the interior of the new Escalade it’s clear that its design team put just as much effort into its passenger cabin as it did into its exterior. There is a sculptural elegance to the dash and centre consoles that has been sorely lacking in the SUV segment as of late. Even the silver trim that surrounds the CUE infotainment display and the WINTER 2014/15
The interior styling of the 2015 Escalade has an elegant, architectural feel that matches the sleek, updated exterior Character lines cut along the side of the 2015 Escalade, elongating its already massive profile
GENERAL SPECS Engine: 6.2-L V-8 Horesepower: 420 Torque: 460 lb-ft 0-100 km/h: 6 seconds MSRP: $81,345
Escalade’s climate and audio controls has an interestingly architectural feel. Everywhere you place a hand throughout the interior there is a sense of substance to the chosen materials. The Escalade is practically devoid of any cheap or flimsy plastic panels. Whether at the wheel or reclining in one of the rear seats, there’s no mistaking the Escalade for some middle-of-theroad SUV. The real treat from behind the wheel is how enjoyable the monstrous SUV truly is to drive. Its new 6.2-Litre V-8 engine offers up tons of power, rocketing the Escalade from 0-100 km/h in just over six seconds. Thanks to Cadillac’s Magnetic Ride Control
suspension system, the Escalade has the handling chops to keep up with its brisk pace. Adapting to ever-changing road conditions, the variable suspension system is firm enough to not roll back and forth while cornering, and is reasonably soft over rough pavement. With so many manufacturers going the route of compact and efficient vehicles time after time, there’s something special about seeing the Escalade standing as loud and proud as ever. This isn’t the ideal vehicle for the single urban commuter, but for those seeking luxury in an extra large dose, few SUVs make as big of a statement as an Escalade. www.gm.ca www.dolcemag.com
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DOLCE VITA MAGAZINE 73
Born in Halifax, chef Daniel Burns recently earned his first Michelin star for his New York restaurant Luksus
THE NEW LUXURY
Canadian chef Daniel Burns wins Michelin star for his New York restaurant Luksus, a Scandinavian-style bistro that focuses on seasonal ingredients, experimentation and beer WRITTEN BY MICHAEL HILL
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estaurants in Canada may not get love from the Michelin Guide, but our culinary exports certainly turn heads. Halifax-born chef Daniel Burns was one of two Canadians in New York City (along with Hugue Dufour and his M. Wells Steakhouse) to earn a coveted Michelin star this year. In the small, rustic space tucked behind international brew house Tørst, Burns’ restaurant, Luksus, is a Scandinavian-style bistro that takes what he learned from his time at Noma, Restaurant magazine’s Best Restaurant in the World, and applies it to North American fare. His inventive set menu results from much experimentation and changes every four to five weeks, and is as delicious as it is artistic. Burns focuses on only one or two seasonal ingredients per plate to let their “bright, clean flavours” shine. Dishes feature outside-the-box combinations such as squab breast with glazed purple carrots and salted plum purée, and come with an optional beer pairing — no wine here. Luksus means “luxury” in Danish and is a play on words about how Burns views modern fine dining. “I don’t think it means white tablecloths and French service exactly anymore. It can be something else.” If this is the new direction of fine dining, count us in. www.luksusnyc.com 74 DOLCE VITA MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com
“I DON’T THINK [FINE DINING] MEANS WHITE TABLECLOTHS AND FRENCH SERVICE EXACTLY ANYMORE. IT CAN BE SOMETHING ELSE”
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DOLCE VITA MAGAZINE 75
SWEET RECIPES
METHOD 1. Squeeze the beetroot in some muslin cloth or clean dish cloth to remove excess liquid and transfer to a bowl. Add all the other fritter ingredients and mix well. 2. Pour enough oil into a large frying pan to come 1cm up the sides, and heat over a moderate temperature until a small amount of mixture bubbles when put into the oil. 3. Using two dessert spoons roll pieces of the beetroot mixture into compact oval balls, then flatten them into patties of around 7cm in diameter and 1cm thick. 4. Fry in the hot oil for two to three minutes on each side, until they’ve turned a nice dark golden colour. Transfer to paper towel, and repeat with the remaining fritters.
PEPPERED LAMB WITH BEETROOT FRITTERS, BROAD BEAN AND LABNE PURÉE SERVES 4
Chef Dominique Rizzo for Lindeman’s serves up a classic dish with a twist paired with a rich, spicy wine INGREDIENTS 4 x 200 g lamb loin eye, trimmed ¼ cup pomegranate molasses 2 tbsp coarsely ground black pepper 1 tbsp rosemary leaves, chopped 1 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped 2 tsp honey Good pinch salt 2 tbsp olive oil METHOD 1. Combine all the marinade in a bowl and rub into the lamb. Allow the lamb to sit in the marinade, covered in the fridge for 30 minutes. 2. Heat a pan over a moderate temperature and pour in the oil. 76 DOLCE VITA MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com
Beetroot Fritters: 250 g (2 large), cooked beetroot, peeled and grated 100 g tinned chickpeas, drained and roughly chopped in a food processor 2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped 2 tbsp fresh coriander, chopped Grated zest of ½ orange ½ tsp ground cumin 1 tbsp tahini paste 1 egg Salt and pepper to taste Sunflower oil, for frying
Broad Bean and Labne Purée: 700 g shelled broad beans 1 tbsp butter 1 small onion, finely diced ¼ cup cream 3 tbsp labne 1 tbsp preserved lemon Salt and pepper METHOD 1. Cook the beans in plenty of boiling water for 8 minutes, drain and refresh in cold water, peel off the outer skins and place into a food processor. 2. Heat a small fry pan and melt the butter, sauté the onion for 2 minutes until softened without colour. 3. Add the cooked onions to the beans along with the cream, labne, preserved lemon, salt and pepper and blend until smooth. You may need to add a little more cream or stock to thin out ut the purée depending on the consistency you want. 4. Serve the lamb sliced sitting tting on a spoonful of the purée rée with the beetroot fritterss on the side. LINDEMAN’S BIN 50 SHIRAZ This South Australian-derived red pours richness into a meal with itss deep ruby hue, its floral, blackberryy and eucalyptus aroma and its spicyy berry flavour. As always, meat always looks and tastes its best d when a glass of flawlessly crafted red wine sits at its side. www.lindemans.com WINTER 2014/15
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WINTER 2014/15