EDITOR’S MUSINGS
Job Description I know. It’s summer and who really wants to think about a job description with endless sunshine on the horizon? Still, this photo has me thinking....exactly what is it that I do for Dabble? While most of my assignments for Dabble are tasks that belong squarely on an editor’s resumé—editing and content planning among them—there are multiple occasions where I find myself stepping out of the ordinary to enjoy an experience, like taking part in the world famous fish throwing at Seattle’s Pike Place Market. (Yes, it’s as slippery as it looks!) Once a year my job description includes taking home and travel enthusiasts to design-worthy destinations for our Design Express program (see page 20). This past June, our group of 32 explored two of my favourite cities—Prague and Budapest. We visited an architect’s home, sampled local beer, stretched our own struedel and even attended Il Barbiere de Sevilla at the famed Budapest Opera House. I guess you could say combining learning with fun is part of my job description too. As Dabble’s Editor in Chief my goal is to provide you, dear reader, with original and accurate content, delivered in a playful manner. Please let me know if I’ve hit the mark with this issue. And whatever your current job description—mom, executive, plumber, heiress or all of the above—I hope you can add “play” to your list of duties.
Kimberley Seldon
Editor in Chief
Follow me... t f
@kimberleyseldon www.facebook.com/KimberleySeldon
July/August 2011 dabble 5
MAY/JUNE 2011
Kimberley Seldon Editor in Chief
Simon Burn Creative Director and Principal Photographer
Cheryl Horne Managing Editor
Victoria Drainville Associate Editor
Farida Karim Writer / Editor
Bob Seldon Captain Crisis
Design Contributors Lisa Canning, Christine Da Costa, Nyla Free, Erin Mercer, Nicholas Rosaci, Sophie Vander
Travel Contributors Kathy Buckworth, Heather Greenwood Davis, Stephanie Gray, Beth Halstead, Anne Taylor Hartzell, Jennifer Weatherhead
Food Contributors Theresa Albert, Corey Burgan, Jameson Fink, David Laudenback, Fiona Van Alstyne
Design & Styling Team www.kimberleyseldon.com Kathy Seale, Bret Tinson, Linda Jennings
Media and Public Relations Tim Das, Aysun Kuck media@dabblemag.com
Advertising Inquiries aysun@dabblemag.com Owned and Published by Kimberley Seldon Productions Inc. Cheryl Horne, Managing Director cheryl@kimberleyseldon.com 909 Mount Pleasant Rd, Toronto, Ontario M4P 2Z6 101 California Ave, Santa Monica, California 90403
www.dabblemag.com info@dabblemag.com While every effort has been made to ensure that advertisements and articles appear correctly, Dabble Magazine and Kimberley Seldon Productions Inc. cannot accept responsibility for any loss or damage caused directly or indirectly by the contents of this publication. All material is intended for information purposes only. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of its publisher or editor. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part prohibited without written permission from the publisher.
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y er ev in sue is
14 Dabble Here, Dabble There, Dabble Dabble Everywhere 15
On the Web
16
Dabble Digs
20
Design Express
156 I dabble in... Tenille Nadkrynechny 158 Just a Dab
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TRAVEL BY DESIGN Saint-Pierre et Miquelon Follow Kimberley Seldon through North America's French islands.
120
design
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HOME TOURS 30 Masterful Mixing Dave Benbow 42
Family Cottage Philip Mitchell
54
Nathan Thomas Does Colour
60
Snap, Crackle, Pop Bill Bocken
24
Reality Check Custom Millwork
29
Style on a Budget Jan Showers
38
Special Feature Wellspring
52
DIY Guy Stacked Personality
66
Industry Profile Suzanne Rheinstein
71
Infusion Dan Wickemeyer
travel
79
Room with a View Treetops
80
Dabble Dare: Surfing Surf’s Up, I’m Not
114 115
Travel Geek On the Go and Connected Dabble Express Packing Tips
116 Best Places For Yoga 118 Exposures Tell a Story
FEATURED DESTINATIONS 74
Snapshot Thailand
86
Dabble Does... Seattle
July/August 2011 dabble 11
food
FEATURE 144
140 A Taste Of Flatbread 148 There’s an App Deep Fried Pickles 149 From Scratch Eggs Florentine 152 Dinner Date Keep it Simple 154 Sindulgence Can’t Elope
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A Day With Chef 3 Chefs: Michael Bonacini, Massimo Capra and Jason Parsons
Dabble on CityLine
Jul. 12
Join the Dabble Team and Tracy Moore for an action packed episode. Kimberley Seldon sets a stylish picnic table, Nicholas Rosaci makes his latest DIY project, Christine DaCosta talks trends, Corey Burgan grills a salad and Kathy Buckworth takes to the flying trapeze.
Dabble’s contributors are always up to something. Find out what they have on the go this summer.
Wine Bloggers Conference Join wine bloggers, new media innovators, industry leaders and Dabble's own wine expert Jameson Fink at the fourth annual North American Wine Bloggers Conference. Where: Charlottesville, Virginia
Jul. 22-24
On the web...
Follow us... t
@dabblemag
f
www.facebook.com/dabblemag
Dabble TV
What's in Store... Kimberley heads to Calgary for some shopping at Cushy Life. Learn what’s in store with the latest trends and great finds. Watch the video.
es nt Co ew N
t
Win this stunning area carpet from Hellenic Canada This transitional 5' x 8' area carpet from the City Trends Collection will add impact, interest and a modern look to our lucky winner's home. Retail Value $1,500. Enter today!
in W to ter En
Body Butter Duo They say the best things in life come in pairs. Now The Body Shop proves it’s true as it launches the ultimate beauty industry ‘one pot wonder’! The Body Shop unveils the new innovative Body Butter Duo. Enter for your chance to win!
Congrats!
Catherine Lancaster of British Columbia
Catherine won a two-piece set of Hardside Fashionaire luggage from Samsonite. Stylish, lightweight and extremely durable with a mounted lock for additional security.
July/August 2011 dabble 15
Breezy Lounging Lounge in style on this customizable outdoor daybed. Overnight Daybed, CA$4795, Andrew Richard Designs www.andrewricharddesigns.com
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PHOTO BY: Michael Dave Dizon
Design contributor Lisa Canning unearths Dabble-worthy products for the design, travel and food enthusiasts.
n ig Des
Colourful Cushion Add a punch of colour indoors or out. Suzani Turquoise, CA$54.99, inVU Drapery Co. www.invudraperyco.com
Sweet Spoon Serve up your gelato in style with laser cut acrylic teaspoons. Acrylic spoons, US$36 set of 6, Anthropologie www.anthropologie.com
Summer Seating Summer guests will marvel at these one-of-a-kind clay dining chairs. Maarten Baas Clay Dining Chair, US$2900, Moss www.mossonline.com
Pretty Picnic Set a pretty picnic on this organic table runner. Namad Table Runner, US$120, Hammocks & High Tea www.hammocksandhightea.com
July/August 2011 dabble 17
l ve Tra
Hands Free Keep receipts and travel documents organized while staying hands free. Hands Free Bracelet Clutch, US$148, Arza Design www.arzadesign.com
City in a Bag These block sets are great gifts for travel enthusiasts of any age. City In A Bag, US$14, Muji www.muji.us
Scratch Map Keep visual track of the countries you’ve visited with the Scratch Off World Map, US$34, Urban Outfitters www.urbanoutfitters.com Games On the Go Handcrafted, timeless games are great for lazy afternoons. Yes or No Tic Tac Toe, CA$125, Mizzonk www.mizzonk.com
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Pop It Whip up your own popsicles with Orka Pop Molds . Orka Pop Mold US$12.95, Wrapables www.wrapables.com
Food Cutie Pie Plates These delightful plastic plates are a delicate addition to your picnic. Louison Rafaël Huizer picnic plates €9,00 set of 6, the little zebra www.thelittlezebra.com
Serve It Up Make and serve your own soft serve ice cream in these colourful cream makers. Half Pint™ Soft-Serve Ice Cream Maker CA$39.99, Hamilton Beach www.hamiltonbeach.ca
Colourful Chopsticks Add some colour to your table with these whimsical chopsticks. cobistyle chopsticks, CA$9.99 for 5 pairs, inVU Drapery Co. www.invudraperyco.com
Refresh Zesty and refreshing, Camino juices are certified organic and fair trade. Assorted juice flavours, CA$4.99, Camino www.tasteofcamino.com
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Prague & Budapest 20 dabble July/August 2011
Thank you travel companions. Our 11th Design Express trip to eastern Europe was a huge success.
32 travellers bonded over a mutual love of design, travel and food. We stretched struedel, scoured the flea market and shopped for crystal. We even donned bathing suits. Now that's camaraderie.
Join us next year for Design Express 2012 Charleston and Savannah
July/August 2011 dabble 21
We asked our design contributors...
What design tip would you give readers who are trying to infuse a summer look into their homes?
Jo Alcorn
"Use fresh colours, like whites, yellows and blues as accent pieces. We enjoy summer for the fresh and airy colours that it brings us, so take note from mother nature and mimic it within in your own home." Jo is the owner and principal designer of her own design company and environmentally friendly furniture line, Whitewash & Co. She also keeps busy as a TV personality on your favourite design channels and loves talking design to her students as a college instructor. www.whitewashco.ca @whitewashco
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Nyla Free
Sophie Vander
If it's interior design related, then Nyla is passionate about it. Nyla also loves travel and says she keeps her bags packed and ready at the door. Hint, hint Dabble.
Writer, editor and stylist, Sophie’s love of travel is evident in the stories she pieces together for her blog Curatorial+Co. She loves uncovering the dusty and forgotten at the back of vintage stores, turning them into gems to display proudly around the house. "Every piece in your home should have a story."
www.nylafreedesigns.com @nylafree
www.curatorialandco.com @CuratorialAndCo
"Taking a more relaxed approach to your décor pairs nicely with the laid back mood of summer. Mix and match your pillows, layer rugs and bring the outdoors in. Ceramic tables, potted plants and lanterns are welcome in kitchens and family rooms, so have fun with accessories both inside and out."
"Visit antique malls for shells and corals and fill an apothecary jar on your coffee table. This idea leaves today’s shells in their current habitat."
gn si de July/August 2011 dabble 23
REALITY CHECK
The designer’s process. PHOTOGRAPHY BY LORI ANDREWS
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DESIGN
Piles of ‘stuff’ and no place to hide. What´s a designer to do? Built-in cabinetry is a popular solution says Dabble design contributor Nyla Free, but it’s also a pricey undertaking. Make sure you get it right the first time by following our step by step guide to custom millwork.
July/August 2011 dabble 25
REALITY CHECK
1. 2. 3.
4. 5. 26 dabble July/August 2011
Determine the Purpose
Shelving can be built virtually anywhere, so deciding what needs to be stored is the key to getting started. TVs, books, toys and clothing all have certain considerations when planning depths and heights in your shelving. So determining which items, how many, and what their sizes are takes you to the next step.
Measure the Space
Whether it’s one wall or many, careful measurements must be taken in order to proceed with laying out the space. Measuring the wall along with window, door, outlet and switch locations is essential.
Consider Details
Want to store books? You’ll need a minimum of 13” depth. However larger art or ‘coffee table’ books may require more depth. If hanging clothes or seasonal coats, allow 24-28” for closet depth. Need a place to organize stacks of paper? You’ll need 20” of depth for legal files and 14” for letter. Research toy bins and storage boxes according to your needs as they come in all shapes and sizes and your shelves can be customized accordingly.
Sketch it
Put pencil to paper to determine the merit of your initial idea. A quick sketch allows you to visualize the new storage space before it’s built. Do you need open shelves, closed doors, cubbies and drawers? What will yours look like?
Call your Carpenter
You’ve got a plan and you’re ready to go. Time to call a carpenter and review details. There may be structural limitations that affect the overall design so consulting an expert eliminates surprises down the road.
DESIGN
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REALITY CHECK
6. 7.
Deciding on materials
Painted cabinetry gives you the option to choose any colour. You can paint MDF (medium density fiberboard) or wood. MDF, although less expensive is easy to chip and harder to repair. Wood is a pricier option but one that will last and is more forgiving whether stained or painted.
Review with electrician
Outlets or switches on the wall where you'd like to add a built-in are no problem as they can easily be incorporated into the back or sides of the unit. Consider adding lighting to the top or even front face of the bookshelves as a decorative detail. Ensure the TV's outlet is in the desired position and make sure to account for speaker height and depth.
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8. 9. 10.
Detailed drawings
Ask a qualified interior designer to provide construction drawings, as they are an essential element to any built-in cabinetry project. Make sure all drawings are reviewed onsite with the cabinet maker to ensure best possible results.
Time for the tools
With details firmly in place, construction can finally begin. Some carpenters build off-site and install upon completion. Others build in or close to the room and install as they go. Review your cabinet maker's methods before project commences and you'll avoid misunderstandings and unnecessary interruptions.
Place items and enjoy
With construction complete and the dust swept away, let the organization begin.
Style
DESIGN
PHOTO BY: DominiqUe Vorillon
PRODUCED BY JO ALCORN
Designer Jan Showers energizes a traditional setting with large scale, gracious furniture, simplified styling and attention getting colour. Here’s how you can get the look for less:
on a budget
Hallaryd Picture CA$149, Ikea www.ikea.com
Rundles Amber Table Lamp CA$119, Bed Bath and Beyond www.bedbathandbeyond.com
Antoinette Fainting Sofa CA$579, Urban Outfitters www.urbanoutfitters.com July/August 2011 dabble 29
HOME TOUR
Masterful Mixing
“
“Nothing matches but it all goes together.
You’d expect Dave Benbow to have a welldesigned life. After all, he’s a manager and buyer for one of LA’s hottest La Cienega design shops, Mecox Gardens. Naturally, his passion for work translates seamlessly into stylish living quarters. Dabble jumped at an invitation to visit the Runyon Canyon condo and see firsthand how this “master of mixing” brings it all together.
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DESIGN
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HOME TOUR
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DESIGN
Never ask a designer for an opinion….that is, unless you want one. Dave Benbow, like other successful decorators, says his personal design philosophy works for anyone, “Rooms should look collected, not purchased.” But Dave is not one of those ‘anything goes’ designer types, insisting instead, “There has to be a cohesive vision.” Certainly, quality is part of Dave’s vision. Some of the items in his home—the William Birch armchairs and down-filled sofa—are investment pieces he’s had for years. When it’s time to revitalize rooms, instead of starting from scratch, he recovers and repurposes, getting lasting value from his purchases. In the living room, he transforms a formerly heavy, Indonesian coffee table by swapping its carved
wood base for a new, sleek metal frame. The change lightens up the space and adds a contemporary accent to the more traditional furnishings. According to the industry veteran, mixing price points is also part of his philosophy. “It keeps everyone guessing,” says Dave, and it’s one of his favourite ways to stretch a budget. Case in point, he pairs a high-end woven console table with wellpriced lamps from Target in the dining room (see page 36). Despite a philosophy that espouses mixing and matching, Dave is serious about starting every design project with the right floor plan. Function is first, then decorating. He relies on casual furniture (and it must be comfortable) to set the tone, typically upholstering major pieces in neutrals, then accenting with colour.
LEFT A cozy side chair, is layered with a kidney shaped sisal pillow, 18” x 18” block print pillow and Belgian ticking stripe runner. Dave painted the blue coral artworks to add punches of colour to the white walls. July/August 2011 dabble 33
HOME TOUR
SAND, SEA, SKY The Georgia native says he’s naturally drawn to colours that work well in his adopted LA homeland; tones that mimic sand, sea and sky. “Khaki,” he jokes, “may not be from the earth, but I live in it,” so that’s another favourite choice. A former Ralph Lauren Home employee, Dave says he appreciates the brand’s tailored colour palette and chose Ralph Lauren’s Cove Point (WW29) for walls throughout the spacious condo. Painting the cabinet backs in Shale Blue (VM124) brings white and off-white accessories into sharper focus.
Cove Point
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Shale Blue
artful styling A collection of organic-shaped vases in shades of oyster and white, stacks of books and personal photos fill the floor-to-ceiling bookshelves. The artful display features a wide range of price points and changes frequently according to the designer. One way to improve styling skills is to start by producing small vignettes. The table scape above, for example, features framed pieces of photography, clear and pottery vases and coral. Like most professional decorators, Dave doesn’t redecorate often, preferring to work with classic pieces that age well.
DESIGN
July/August 2011 dabble 35
HOME TOUR
Fluted wood lamps from Target mix handsomely with woven console table and repurposed stools. 36 dabble July/August 2011
“
“
DESIGN
Be true to yourself. If you like it, that’s what matters.
xe u L ed er Lay
In the dining room, Dave searched for a fabric as comfortable as his favourite khakis. Turns out, a fashion fabric supplier had the real thing. Perfect.
Good looks aren’t enough to impress design expert Dave Benbow. Layers mean comfort, so Dave looks for ways to introduce them into his projects. At home, he offers several examples:
“I know from experience that people keep things they don’t like because they cost a lot,” says Dave. “My advice then, is don’t spend a fortune unless you absolutely love the piece or can afford to change it down the road.”
Beneath the dining room console table, formerly “homely” footstools (purchased for $39) are rescued by recovering in a thick slate-coloured linen.
BELOW Dave is the author of several
books including Daytime Drama, Male Model and Summer Cruising.
In the living room, two ottomans tuck neatly beneath the large coffee table, taking up little floor space but providing extra seating when required. Bookshelves line the walls, providing an artistic backdrop to the predominately blue and white design scheme as well as a creative canvas for displaying objets d’art and accessories. July/August 2011 dabble 37
Wellspr
SUNNYBROO
KIMBERLEY SELDON ALLI’S JOURNEY
Alli’s Journey is a comfortable retreat where young adults—who grow up very quickly when faced with a life-threatening illness—can hang out, put up their feet and feel safe enough to have a laugh or a cry. Alli’s Journey, is dedicated to a courageous young woman named Alli Shapiro, who lost her battle with cancer all too soon. www .kimberleyseldon.com
RAE MILBERG & MARTHA McCAIN ENERGY ROOM - DEDICATED TO Diane Lanthier
The Energy Room is designed as a relaxing retreat from everyday challenges. Decorated in calming hues of blue reminiscent of the sea, this space provides a soothing oasis in which Reiki Massage Therapy is performed. This relaxing room helps the healing process in every sense of the word. www.raemilbergdesigns.com
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W
ring
OK, TORONTO
DESIGN
Last year, twenty-three of Toronto’s top designers joined forces to renovate and refurbish the Wellspring Cancer Support Centre at Sunnybrook, a home-awayfrom-home for cancer patients. Here are just a few of the beautiful rooms that resulted from the outpouring of love and talent.
David MacPhee Peer Support Room
The Peer Support Room was transformed into this comfortable and relaxed place using natural products such as the grass cloth wallpaper, the stone table lamp and the cotton and linen fabrics. The furniture was designed to be functional and comfortable. The architectural details include chair rails and crown mouldings which help define the space and add to its elegant style. The use of warm neutral tones with blue accents builds on the soothing feeling of the space.
Wellsprin www.raftersofmuskoka.com
LYNN RAITT LIBRARY
The Library is the information heart of Wellspring. Soft blues and wheat colours make this a calm quiet refuge where one can have an intimate private meeting, cuddle up in the lounge chair to read a book or go online to do research.
July/August 2011 dabble 39
spring SHARON GRECH & MICHELLE COOK ADMIN OFFICE
This space was purposefully designed with simplicity to mirror the calm and uplifting theme created throughout Wellspring. The purity of modern design, coupled with relaxing bluegreens and whites allows a perfect balance between a professional office and a comfortable home environment. Contributing to this project has been a gift beyond expression.
www.benjaminmoore.ca
ROBERT TANZ RECEPTION AREA
The Reception Area was designed to make visitors feel instantly comfortable, with a “cottage” feel that’s familiar and relaxed. A blue, green and white palette is inspired by the landscape, including sky and clouds painted on the ceiling. Botanical prints, a Kilim rug, an awning-striped Roman window blind, and matelassé pillows combine with cushy chenille seating and simple wooden tables to create a cozy, airy space. www.roberttanzdesign.com
Wel
The Wellspring Designer Team: Artella Group - Evelyn Eshun Benjamin Moore - Sharon Grech Bonwit Designs Inc - Bonnye Gollan Carol McFarlane Design Inc. Collage Designs - Susan Calhoun Creative Licence - Lori Abrams David MacPhee Del Weale Interior Design Ltd. Details & Associates - Paul Sinnott Interior Design Decorating - Alex Naranjo Janet Williams Interiors
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Julia West Home - Julia West, Isabella Dabrowiecki and Doina Dule Kimberley Seldon Design Group Launch by Design - Anna Bada-Crema Lynn Raitt Interiors Perfect 10 Design - Tenley Gibson Rae Milberg Design Inc. Raintree Design Inc. - Timothy St. Louis Robert Tanz Design Sieguzi Interior Designs Inc. - Robin Siegerman Designers The Act Studio of Halstead & Company Limited - Beth Halstead
DESIGN
Alex Naranjo & Evelyn Eshun WASHROOMS
The washrooms were designed with the intention of being modern and fresh, yet timeless for those using the facilities. Large , open patterns give a strong graphic punch, while the colours sooth the soul. Architectural photographs allow the user to escape to a restful location, if only for a moment.
www.artella.ca
JULIA WEST, DOINA DULE & ISABELLA DABROWIECKI CHILDREN’S CENTRE
Soothing blue and green walls, sunny yellow ceiling; here relax, imagine and create. Read, squashed into a beanbag chair, or “cook” a meal, throw a tea party, manage a railroad, turn shapes into buildings! Crayons, paint, paper, easel, and blackboard “speech balloons” for encouraging words and favourite quotations.
llspring www.juliawesthome.com
A big thank you to our talented design team and the generous suppliers. To make a donation, visit: www.wellspring.ca
July/August 2011 dabble 41
HOME TOUR
ABOVE French doors lead from
the living room to patio and adjacent sandy beach.
RIGHT The graciously renovated
cottage hosts frequent and large gatherings.
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DESIGN
family cottage PHOTOGRAPHY BY TIM McGHIE
Far from the hectic pace of Toronto and nestled along the northern shores of Lake Erie is the tiny town of Wainfleet. An idyllic spot to spend summer weekends and holidays surrounded by lake and land. Ready to update his 1920s family cottage, Mark Narsansky turned to his designer and longtime partner Philip Mitchell for help.
July/August 2011 dabble 43
HOME TOUR
Today, the refurbished cottage boasts ample room for entertaining family, friends and even frequent overnight guests. But that isn’t how it started out. The challenge for transforming Mark’s childhood vacation home was to rework the footprint to accommodate larger gatherings while preserving the cottage’s vintage personality. To maximize seating for evening and weekend gatherings, the bright and cozy living room is smartly laid out with comfy sofas, plump armchairs and large coffee and occasional tables. A long pillow-topped banquette borders the front windows. Fabrics are a mixture of durable woven textures and kicky cottage stripes and prints. The linen window treatments from Kravet play a dual role: they cool the air in summer by controlling light levels while adding visual and physical warmth during the winter months.
The nautical candle sconce from the Bombay Company was electrified to provide ambient lighting.
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DESIGN
“
“
We entertain so many guests on a frequent basis. The layout of the furniture helps to ease traffic flow in the living room.
July/August 2011 dabble 45
HOME TOUR
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DESIGN
A banquette is a practical addition to the space, providing more seating in the smallest possible footprint. Plus, overnight guests can sleep on the window seat as its dimensions are similar to two single beds. “When the beaming sun and cottage snacks conspire to make sleepy guests,” laughs Philip, “I find this the perfect spot for a catnap.” In another corner of the room, an eclectic display of crocks sits atop an antique storage cabinet. The sconce is a vintage gas lantern. The turn-of-thecentury Canadian landscape painting sits against cream wainscoting and below soft gray-green on the walls. July/August 2011 dabble 47
HOME TOUR
All kitchen tools—pots, pans, plates and cooking utensils—are easy to grab from the storage shelves on the island and the wrought iron racks hanging above. Architectural trim details, vintage lighting and hardware are inspired by the cottage’s original 1920s architecture. The island features a marble surface, ideal for baking as well as sturdy counter space. Cabinetry finishes are hand painted and, if they chip, can easily be touched up. “This kitchen is made to accommodate lots of people activity,” says the designer.
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To accommodate large dinner parties, Philip chose a dining table that extends to serve 26 guests, perfect for holidays, birthdays and special events. A distressed finish means there’s no drama if children or pets accidentally scratch the surface. A sideboard with inset marble inlays accommodates hot serving dishes. Other traditional accents include a vintage chandelier which gives off a warm glow above and reclaimed antique floors.
DESIGN
July/August 2011 dabble 49
HOME TOUR
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DESIGN
The cottage has three additional bedrooms on the newly built second floor, though there is nary a bulge on the cottage exterior to reflect the change. Why? “Because the rooms are tucked behind the roofline and concealed behind discreet shed dormers,” responds Philip. Clever.
Philip was eager to replace dark stained walls from the original design with light-reflecting warm colours such as soft green, grey and cream. Philip says he’s a fan of mixing different finishes—from stained and painted wood to forged iron, it makes the space so much more interesting.
Vintage florals drape the bed with its crisp white sheets in the second floor master bedroom. The roofline dictates an unusual angle above the vintage headboard from Patina Antiques. Twin ottomans in slate blue fabric rest at the foot of the bed.
In the ensuite, Bianco Carerra marble optimizes light and offers an easy-to-live-with surface that ages gracefully. Philip sums up the renovation this way, “Our cottage is still full of 1920s details and is primed for the demands of the millennium lifestyle.”
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Behr’s Beluga 770F-7
“Divide and conquer,” says Dabble’s DIY Guy. Nicholas Rosaci creates magic by transforming ordinary side tables into a stylish shelving unit.
MATERIALS REQUIRED 2 small occasional (side) tables Table saw Spray paints in your desired colour choice and finish 220-grit sandpaper for light sanding
ID Y Guy
Stacked
Personality
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Metal corner braces (L-brackets)
OPTIONAL Use oil paints to create a more durable finish.
DESIGN
1 2 3
THE PERFECT TABLE Scrounge antique stores and flea markets for inexpensive but eye catching occasional tables. Nicholas chose tables that are 2' high. For added interest, look for tables with a detailed apron and cabriole legs. Note, longer legs provide more height between the shelves. For this project we started with two tables.
SPLITS-VILLE Use a table saw to cut the table in half, width-wise. If the table allows, unscrew the legs first. If you don’t have a table saw, many big box stores provide a rental service at a reasonable price. After you’ve completed the cut, reattach the legs. You should now have four, “half” tables, each with two front legs.
SPRAY IT BRIGHT Prep the tables with a light sanding, wipe the surface clean and then spray paint. Create a colour story using a range of spring-inspired hues; Nicholas chose orange, blue, lemon yellow and crisp white. Be adventurous and experiment with paint finishes. Gloss, semi-gloss, eggshell, satin and matte each provide a pleasing effect.
4
HARDWARE FIX
5
STACK ‘EM UP
Use short #8 screws to attach two metal corner braces (L-brackets) to the underside of the tabletops. Attach one brace at each end. Ensure that the vertical part of the corner brace is flush with the unfinished cut edge at the back of each table.
Artfully stack the tables vertically against the wall in your desired colour story. Secure each table individually by affixing the corner brace into the wall (or wall stud) with heavy-duty screws and anchors.
Tip
Black walls lend drama to the new shelves.
July/August 2011 dabble 53
HOME TOUR
NATHAN THOMAS
does
COLOUR PHOTOGRAPHY BY Axel Dupeux
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DESIGN
When a hip Manhattan family approached Top Design’s Season 2 winner, Nathan Thomas, to rejuvenate their daughter’s bedroom, he was surprised and delighted when the makeover stretched into a redesign of the entire 4000 square foot apartment. The designer enthuses, “The family gave me complete freedom to update the space and leverage their love of colour. “ Nathan kicked off the project by creating a unique “Kid’s Study.” He added playful flourishes like the chalkboard paint wall, striped carpet and casual, outdoor lounge seating to stimulate activity. ABOVE The chalkboard wall takes on colourful shapes and patterns. Bright blue creates a striking backdrop to books and vases on display. LEFT Outdoor furniture gives the “Kid’s Study” an indestructible and carefree attitude. July/August 2011 dabble 55
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HOME TOUR
By using a variety of fabrics to accent the sisal carpet, the room reflects more depth and substance.
DESIGN
The living room beckons, day and night. By day, it’s drenched in natural sunlight. For evening entertaining or quiet, late night reading Nathan provides lamps, sconces and recessed lighting.
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HOME TOUR
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DESIGN
Donald Baechler’s “Tree” meshes perfectly with the Jens Risom chair and vintage Nigerian stool.
Located in the classic Upper East Side and steps away from the Metropolitan Museum of Modern Art and Central Park, this pre-war residence features ample natural light and handsome coffered ceilings. ABOVE A custom sisal rug is by Sacco Carpets and the fabric on the
armchair is by Bergamo. LEFT Above the credenza and close to the entryway, Nathan places
the client’s lithographs from the Beatles’ film, Yellow Submarine. They are framed to suit other accent pieces such as the pumpkin-coloured vintage Danish vase.
To see additional photos from this space, visit Dabble’s Design Gallery. July/August 2011 dabble 59
HOME TOUR
Architect Bill Bocken’s clients love brightly coloured art work and collect it on their travels. 60 dabble July/August 2011
DESIGN
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHELLEY METCALF
Acting as architect, designer and landscaper Bill Bocken furnishes a beachside condo for empty nester clients with a taste for pop art and playful colour. The airy and playfully designed San Diego condo shares airspace with the landmark Hotel del Coronado and sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. But the adjacent ocean doesn’t provide the condo’s only colour. Says the designer, “My clients are inspired by brightly coloured accents and clothing. I showcase what they love in a sea of white and great lighting,” The living room features a white Roche Bobois sofa with decorative accent cushions in black and bright red . A sleek coffee table from Hold It Contemporary Home and white kitchen bar stools from Ligne Roset round out the contemporary furnishings. “The furniture placement creates a relaxing conversation area for my clients and their guests as they enjoy the ocean and beach vistas,” says Bill.
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HOME TOUR
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DESIGN
A definite focal point for casual gatherings, the breakfast table also enjoys front-row ocean views. The glass table allows the metal base to get the attention it deserves while the tulip style chairs with red cushions carry colour from the living room into the kitchen. Light bounces off the mirror backsplash to make this bright and cheery nook the perfect spot to start and end the day. The double chaise lounge by Ligne Roset is positioned beside retractable doors, which open to the Pacific Ocean below.
"I dabble in creating artwork. I once used saris to create a contemporary abstract mosaic which my clients describe as ‘stunning’." July/August 2011 dabble 63
HOME TOUR
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DESIGN
The clients host frequent weekend visitors, so the bed in the guest bedroom has built-in drawers to maximize storage in the small space. The cheerful red swivel chair and ottoman are from Hold It Contemporary Home. “In the bathroom, I created the illusion of a larger space with mirrors that reflect and illuminate the tiles ,� says Bill. The basalt wall tiles are from Classic Tile and Mosaic and the contemporary light bar is from Tec Lighting. July/August 2011 dabble 65
y tr us Indfile Suzanne Pro Rheinstein
Web extra
GET THE aqua fresca RECIPE ONLINE
66 dabble July/August 2011
DESIGN
“There’s an art to entertaining,” says renowned interior designer Suzanne Rheinstein. Though she moved to LA more than 30 years ago, the New Orleans native has a deep appreciation for traditions, antiques, gardening and southern hospitality. It’s simply in her bones. Dabble spent a sunny day in Suzanne’s gracious Hancock Park home and garden, where she shared insights to successful entertaining. Two things strike me when Suzanne Rheinstein answers her front door. First, her much-photographed 1914 Georgian-Revival home is even more beautiful in person and second, so is its well-known resident. Looking stylish in a black linen ensemble, chunky gold bangles, vintage watch and thick tortoiseshell glasses, Suzanne takes me on a private tour, but not before placing an icy glass of aqua fresca in my hands.
"I dabble in latchkey gardening, entertaining by assembling and fondling fabrics for Lee Jofa." DAB: How do you see your role as an interior designer? SR: Interior designers have to be able to say more about a piece of furniture or a fabric than, “It’s super cute.” Clients expect expertise, not just enthusiasm. I know design and architecture because I study them. That allows me to design comfortable, authentic homes that act as a backdrop for a family’s real life. July/August 2011 dabble 67
INDUSTRY PROFILE
When it comes to entertaining, Suzanne doesn’t get fussy about matchy-matchy tableware and place settings. Making guests feel comfortable is far more important. 68 dabble July/August 2011
DESIGN
Inside or outside, Suzanne’s design aesthetic is perfectly articulated throughout every inch of the property. July/August 2011 dabble 69
INDUSTRY PROFILE
DAB: How can new designers learn more about design and architecture? SR: Start by studying house museums, they are a great learning tool. My favourites are: • Villa Kerylos, French Riviera • Sir John Soane’s Museum in London • Vizcaya in Miami • Longue Vue in New Orleans • Gallier House in New Orleans • Le Musée Nissim de Camondo in Paris • Villa del Balbianello in Lenno, Como, Italy DAB: As a transplanted southerner, entertaining and hospitality are your birthright. Do you think dinner parties and entertaining are making a comeback? SR: My parents entertained a lot and I do the same. Sometimes I cook, but I tell you, it’s so easy to assemble a buffet and bring friends together. I never fuss with renting dishes. I mix and match the plates and glasses I already own. I think that makes guests feel more comfortable right off the bat. DAB: What about flower arranging? Your home is filled with flowers. 70 dabble July/August 2011
SR: My southern roots and California lifestyle fuel my passion for gardening. But my motto when arranging flowers is: Keep it simple. Even something as uncomplicated as displaying leaves in a pretty glass vase enlivens a room. DAB: What’s next for you? SR: My second collection of fabric, Hollyhock II for Lee Jofa is coming out soon. I love antique textiles so I used them as an inspiration for the collection.
: s ip T ing in ta ter En ’s e nn Suza
1. If you are new to entertaining, build your confidence by first inviting two couples to dinner. Once you feel confident, party size can grow. 2. Don’t be afraid to assemble. A gourmet grocer’s roasted chicken is a perfect start to a buffet. 3. Bring together young couples and older friends and serve comfort food. Try short ribs—they’re fattening and everyone loves them. 4. Shake up the party with a game. I have a group of friends that come over to play international rummy. It’s a blast. 5. Be yourself. Don’t pretend you like the opera if your style leans towards sporting events.
Infusion
DESIGN This summer is all about colour and designer Victoria Drainville celebrates her passion for primaries through Daniel Wickemeyer’s cheery photography.
Dark Royal Blue
Blue Plate
Araucana Teal
Fiery Red
Citron
Straightforward Green
Walton Cream
Summertime and the livin’ is easy. One look at this cheery photo and I can taste piña colada on my lips, smell coconut suntan lotion and feel the warmth of sand beneath my feet. Waiter, I ‘ll have another.
texture
Stand out lighting is a great way to add impact to design schemes. This woven pendant works year round.
pattern
Celebrate a passion for primaries with this dynamic area carpet.
colour
Hans Wegner’s Wishbone chair continues to inspire. Its fresh blue colour energizes this classic seat. July/August 2011 dabble 71
We asked our travel contributors...
What is your idea of the perfect summer stay-cation?
Farida Karim
"Renting a Zip car and taking day trips. One of my favourite spots is Prince Edward County for an overnight stay at a bed and breakfast, a swim at Sand Banks and a huge scoop of locally made ice cream." As a writer and editor with a passion for travel, Farida is over-the-moon about being a part of Dabble. She loves shopping and is always on the lookout for interesting and unusual finds. "Travel and shopping, how can life get any better?�
www.dabblemag.com
72 dabble July/August 2011
Stephanie Gray
"A pile of books, a tall glass of lemonade and no phone."
Jennifer Weatherhead
Kathy Buckworth
"A cocktail of wifi, dock, lake, non-fighting kids and, of course, the actual cocktail."
Jennifer and Stephanie, cofounders of Pretty Chic Travel, love to tour the globe and share their fantastic finds, be it out-of-the-way boutiques, must-see art exhibits or stylish hotels. Both with editorial backgrounds, the two are thrilled to offer up their take on the world of travel.
Kathy is an award-winning writer, public speaker, television personality, and the author of five books. She is a feature writer for Sympatico.ca, a columnist for ParentsCanada, Womens Post, Ottawa Families and GoodLife, and regularly contributes to national magazines. She is also a parenting correspondent for CTVNewsChannel.
www.prettychictravel.ca @pc_travel
www.kathybuckworth.com @kathybuckworth
"Sipping on tea and reading in coffee shops for a week."
el trav July/August 2011 dabble 73
SNAPSHOT
and l Thai 74 dabble July/August 2011
“
“
WORDS BY BETH HALSTEAD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAKE WILLIAMS
I recall the occasional scent of lemongrass, the tranquil sounds as we near rivers and the feeling of being embraced by the jungle’s lush tropical vegetation.
TRAVEL
Arriving in Bangkok, it is clear that the colour, excitement and mystique I envisioned is alive and well in this vibrant Asian city. Bursting to experience the riches of Thailand, I check into my hotel, make a quick change into a tropical yet “temple appropriate” frock, and plunge into the fast pace of the streets.
A tuktuk in the city of Bangkok.
This waterway system was once the major form of transportation in Bangkok. This explains why the shores are a shoulder-to-shoulder series of homes, shops and pagodas. Mostly constructed of wood and metal, these buildings are painted every imaginable colour. Those sporting balconies contain lush tropical plants that spill over on all sides and errant household items such as the occasional hammock (although I never see one in use).
A smiling and happy tour guide.
The traffic on the canal pales only in comparison to the chaos on the streets. Slim boats, long boats and water taxis move people about while supply boats jostle for position. Visitors and locals drift up to floating market vendors, whose flat-bottomed boats are piled high with fruits, vegetables, daily necessities and souvenirs.
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PHOTO BY: BETH HALSTEAD
After a long flight, the first site I have in mind is the Grand Palace with its honourable Emerald Buddha. As philosophers and avid travellers often preach, the journey is as important as the destination and the “Venice of the East “ does not disappoint. My pre-trip research suggests the Chao Phraya Express Boat is the simplest route to the Grand Palace and I welcome the chance to glide along, observing the everyday workings of canal life in Bangkok.
SNAPSHOT
View from a Bangkok waterway en route to the temple. 76 dabble July/August 2011
PHOTO BY: BETH HALSTEAD
Beth at the Grand Palace
PHOTO BY: BETH HALSTEAD
The Temple of the Emerald Buddha
PHOTO BY: BETH HALSTEAD
The Taling Market boasts the popular floating kitchens, where mouthwatering traditional Thai dishes are available for purchase. Enthusiasts of floating shopping can start as early as 4:00 am at the Bang Khu Wiang, the same time monks arrive to receive their alms. At Chang Pier I disembark and, after a short walk, gaze at the long white walls surrounding the Grand Palace. For almost 150 years these magnificently designed and decorated buildings (no gold leaf or attention to detail is spared) were home to the King and his court, the seat of government, the mint and the state department. Today they remain the seat of power and spiritual heart of the Kingdom of Thailand. To grasp even a fraction of the historical, political and spiritual influences, I strongly recommend coughing up the bhats (Thai currency) for a guide. Taking up a generous corner of this complex is Wat Phra Kaew (The Temple of the Emerald Buddha). The opulence of this statue is certainly appreciated but not really a surprise given 90% of the Thai people are Buddhist. In fact, they represent the world’s largest Buddhist population. It is said that separating Thai culture from Buddhism is difficult as their art and cultural expressions hinge from their deep study of the religion, the Buddha himself and the mystical root faith, Hinduism. It is not uncommon to see Thai people of all ages stop to observe a quick wai of gratitude and respect when passing spiritual houses, Buddhas, monk statues and chedis (moundlike structures containing Buddhist relics). People frequently visit temples to make offerings of lotus flowers, food, incense and even money as a form of praise, hoping God will smile kindly on them. Thailand as a whole is abundant with ornately decorated spirit
TRAVEL
houses and grand wats (temples), such as Wat Po which has more than 1,000 Buddha images. Departing from the spiritual realm, the crowded markets, as in most exotic cities, are a must see. If you map out your route with intention it is easy to keep moving from 8:00 am until 11:00 pm as you encounter vendors as unique and bizarre as their wares. Without a doubt shouting takes first prize if you need to attract the attention of a potential client. Some play music to create a ‘spend money atmosphere’, while others wear outlandish costumes to catch the eye of passersby. Although prices start quite low, Thai people are avid sportsmen and love to barter. My advice is to roll up your sleeves and let the games begin. Goods for sale include clothing, footwear,
electronics, software, souvenirs, brand name knockoffs, furniture, bicycles, animals, local crafts and more. Whether you are looking for new or old, it’s available here. You just have to get out your bhats. The stalls that catch my attention are those that hiss and snap because the vendors are frying up crickets, beetles, and giant ants sprinkled with salt. If you have a sweet tooth, choose your fried insects dipped in chocolate. Even with the tempting chocolate option, I pass on this culinary treat. Leaving the pushcarts, crowds of tourists and the fast pace of Bangkok, I board a train and head north for a three-day hike outside of Chiang Mai. For a mere $25 US/Canadian, we make the 751 km journey in an air-conditioned sleeper car. Delightfully, the train is faster than flying, extremely comfortable and offers picturesque views. July/August 2011 dabble 77
SNAPSHOT
The day of our trek arrives. Early in the morning, we are bussed to the starting point and on the trails in no time. I recall the occasional scent of lemongrass, the tranquil sounds as we near rivers and the feeling of being embraced by the jungle’s lush tropical vegetation. Looking back, my soul gives these sometimes challenging days of hiking and basic sleeping accommodations (reed hut) a 5-star rating. One cannot say Thailand without thoughts of delectable cuisine. Although the main food is rice (a common Thai saying is gin khao yung, “Have you eaten rice yet?”), it is the famed hot and spicy dishes accompanying the rice that are unforgettable. Opportunities to refuel appear at every corner. I suggest stopping to eat at the plentiful and tourist friendly sitdown establishments. Two weeks and I only skim the surface of the cultural wealth, magic, diverse geography and friendly faces of exotic Thailand. From urban areas that throb with energy to laidback experiences with flora and fauna, my city and country girl are grateful to taste this exotic country.
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Sherpas (porters) accompany the group on the hike to the Hilltribes.
PHOTO BY: BETH HALSTEAD
Coined “The Rose of the North”, Chiang Mai is surrounded by rolling hills. Those interested in architecture, dance, cooking, arts, meditation, yoga, giving or receiving the famed Thai massage or hiking and biking will find Chiang Mai an ideal destination. Over the next few days, I enjoy the city’s pace and calming energy and look forward to my upcoming hike.
er ov ry ar C l ra tu Cul
1. Thai Proverb: Tham dii, dii; tham chua, dai chua. One meaning: “do good, get good; do evil, get evil.” Alternate translation, “if you are good to someone else, you are good to yourself.” 2. Maintain jai yen or a cool heart. Getting angry is a loss of face for everyone present. Hold your temper. 3. Often business and pleasure are mixed. Whomever extends the invitation is to pay for the meals and drinks. When it is unclear the oldest pays. Paying is viewed as an honour.
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th wi m oo R view a
Treetops Dabble searched high and... well, just high actually, to find soaring suites guaranteed to bring out the child in any traveller. Treehotel
WHO: Ariau Amazon Towers
WHO: Treehotel
WHO: Hapuku Lodge & Tree Houses
WHERE: Manaus, Brazil
WHERE: Harads, Sweden
WHERE: Kaikoura, New Zealand
WHAT: Sitting at the confluence of
WHAT: Feeling Swiss Family
WHAT: Nestled 30 feet above the
COST: Packages start at $469 US
COST: Rooms from SEK 3675
COST: Packages start at $795 NZD
the Rio Negro and the Anavilhanas Archipelago with over 6 miles of treetop canopy walkways, Ariau is one of the world’s dream destinations. Visitors experience the region’s abundant flora and fauna while leaving the fragile ecosystem completely undisturbed.
per person for 2 days, 1 night, including all meals.
Robinson? There’s no ‘roughing it’ when you spend the night in the well-designed Treehotel. Nature loving guests enjoy a sky-high perch set within the forests of Swedish Lapland. And naturally, there’s a Swedish sauna to soak in after a day spent exploring the region. per night for two people, including breakfast.
ground in the canopy of a native Manuka grove, each tree house has spectacular views of Kaikoura’s dramatic mountains and surf-washed Pacific coastline. The one bedroom Tree House is a favourite for honeymooners and couples looking for a luxurious tree top stay. per couple for 1 night stay, bottle of champagne, dinner and breakfast.
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DABBLE DARE
Surf’s Up, I’m no WORDS BY KATHY BUCKWORTH PHOTOGRAPHY BY Mike Kitada
Dabble sends Kathy Buckworth on a gnarly adventure. Gnarl-y [nahr-lee] – adjective, gnarl·i·er, gnarl·i·est 1. gnarled 2. slang: distasteful; distressing; offensive; gross “Just remember, keep your knees bent. If the board’s pearling, slide your chin back. And Kathy, don’t forget, you’re a goofy-foot.” With these cryptic instructions, I grip my shiny blue surfboard and eye my classmates. Are they thinking what I’m thinking? Is a body-grabbing current or a lip smack (hitting the highest point of the wave) next on the agenda? My fingers clutch the rails (that’s surf talk for sides of the board) a little tighter. My 8-year-old son Nicholas and I are learning to surf in the glorious sunshine of Huntington Beach, California. Or as it’s known locally, Surf City USA. Its pristine beaches and miles of uninterrupted sand remind me of scenes from Blue Crush, a movie about women surfers that I obviously should have watched more closely. Pearling? Oh, that’s when the nose (front) of the surfboard digs into the water. Solution? Paddle faster. And goofy-foot? In board sports we typically favour one foot in front. I naturally keep my right foot forward when I am pretendstanding-up-surfing, hence a goofy-foot. Regular foot if you favour the left. Our instructor Charlos, the quintessential surfer dude with honey brown skin and sun-whitened hair, waits patiently nearby and squints (or is that a smile?) as we practise our belly-down paddling and pushing up. “What did he say,” asks Nicholas. “Does it matter?” I mumble. The Pacific Ocean is cold and I contemplate—for only a second mind you— hurtling my legs forward into a vertical stance on the board and posing under the beaming sun.
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not.
The dare:
LEARN TO SURF
Surf instructor Charlos, waits patiently as students practise paddling their boards.
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DABBLE DARE
Kathy, surfboard in tow, and her son Nicholas head to the waves.
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Kathy prepares for the next attempt.
As I get used to the rhythm of the waves, Charlos shoots me a grin, “Beats sitting behind a desk.” Can Charlos read my mind? Out the corner of my eye, I catch a glimpse of my son’s 60-pound body as he tumbles gracefully back to the shore courtesy of a pounding wave. Suddenly I hear Charlos yell, “Pop up” and I think I’m finally going to catch a wave. I paddle feverishly, raise my upper body, swing my right foot around in front and pick up my left. Then...wipe out. My dream of rising to conquer the nine-foot board and proudly raise my arms in classic surfer pose doesn’t quite come true . . . this time. A salt water enema seems likely though, despite the bodyhugging neoprene and lycra I’m wearing. Not surprisingly, I feel exhausted and exhilarated by this mini-workout. Later that day, my son and I visit the Surfing Museum.
Perhaps I’m dehydrated by the salt water and hallucinating but I’m certain the statue of surf god Duke Kahanamoku winks at me.
Whether you hit a gnarly wave or simply paddle to the lip—dude, you are a surfer. And as I stare out the window of my home office, I remember Charlos’ sage advice, “Keep your knees bent or get ready to bail,” and know that, yes, I am a surfer.
Huntington Beach Hot Spots
Stay
Enjoy a scenic view and an ocean adventure right outside your front door at the Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort and Spa.
Do
Take surfing lessons from one of many qualified instructors at Huntington Beach, it’s the ultimate surf city.
Visit
Disneyland—it’s only 25 minutes away by car and your hotel can even arrange a shuttle.
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PHOTOGRAPHY BY SIMON BURN PRODUCED BY SOPHIE VANDER
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A city built on high tech industries coupled with a passion for nature, Seattle’s design savvy, caffeine buzzed, foodie population works hard to play hard. Four locals take you on a tour of their town. Seattle’s famous salmon throwers at Pike Place Fish
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There is nothing Seattleites
Sophie Vander, Fiona Van Alstyne and Jameson Fink stroll the eclectic streets of the Capitol Hill neighbourhood. 88 dabble July/August 2011
TRAVEL
won’t do in the rain. And when you visit, ditch the umbrella if you don’t want to look like a tourist.
Although there are frequent grey skies, Seattleites are too cool to let it get in the way of enjoying one of the most beautiful landscapes in the USA’s Pacific Northwest. Hedged in by the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound to the west and the Cascade Mountain Range to the east, the way the locals live is dictated by the environment and a dedication to preserving it. Tour the best sights with Anne Taylor Hartzell who gets active biking trails, climbing mountains and paddling the many waterways. Shop Seattle’s design stores with Sophie Vander who says mixing industrial bold with minimal sleek, antique rustic and mid century modern delivers a truly eclectic Seattle style. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, follow Fiona Van Alstyne who introduces awardwinning chefs, using local and sustainable ingredients. And finally, join Jameson Fink in his favourite Seattle hangouts, sip locally brewed beers and surprising cocktails.
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DABBLE DOES
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Covetous contemporary and colourful homewares at Velocity Art and Design.
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5
SEATTLE DESIGN “Seattle’s design scene is as eclectic as its residents,” says our design expert Sophie Vander. The simplicity of high tech style travels easily from the workplace to home, but because Seattleites are intrinsically environmentalists, they feel compelled to mix vintage or antique with the sleek and new to create a style all their own.
TOP DESIGN SPOTS First stop, Capitol Hill neighbourhood. 1 Area 51 contains a mix of new and
vintage that screams Seattle style. Leah Steen from Revival Home & Garden is the expert when it comes to pops of colour. If you’re a true greenie, NuBe Green’s philosophy of sustainable materials will float your boat. Tucked away upstairs in Melrose Market, Butter Home touts interesting rustic pieces with a built-in fun factor.
2
The knowledgeable staff at Velocity Art and Design is super cool and friendly, which makes shopping here way too easy. Walk away with pendant lamps by Artecnica, a Chilewich spun vinyl table runner and, hey, throw in Blu Dot’s Nick dining table as well. They do ship, so go crazy.
3
Take a quick cab ride south to artsy and industrial-chic Georgetown. Take in the substantial inventory at Susan Wheeler Home, but grab your prize while you can as items go quickly. Next door, the pieces at Kirk Albert Vintage Furnishings are as enigmatic as Kirk himself. His business partner, Steve, is there to talk you through the history of the industrial relics sourced from around the globe. Stop by Pacific Galleries antique mall on your way back into Seattle.
4
Not your average ceramics store, Far 4 features porcelain hand grenades by designer Charles Krafft, while Trevor Jackson’s skull teapots will cause a stir at tea parties. Scale down the shock factor but retain the wow with Far 4’s own line of porcelain vegetables accented with gold.
5
The manganese in the glass turns pre-1915 bottles lavender, at Susan Wheeler Home.
We love how Great Jones Home creates vignettes within the store so that you can visualise a whole space and find inspiration within it. By utilising classic pieces and patterns, with a touch of glamour and gilt, you can’t go wrong really. July/August 2011 dabble 91
DABBLE DOES
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One of the many vignettes staged in Great Jones Home that makes you cry out, “I’ll take the lot!”
TRAVEL
Sophie’s perfect
SEATTLE ITINERARY
Stay
With its sexy, infinity-edge rooftop pool and uninterrupted views over water and mountains, the Four Seasons Seattle is a luxury-meetscozy escape. We love the hotel’s rugged good looks, deep, deep tub with perfect view, TV set within the bathroom mirror, and poolside fire pit. Locals frequent the awardwinning ART restaurant, and the divine spa.
Eat
Portage Bay Café’s slogan of “Eat like you give a damn” says it all. Using only local and/or organic ingredients, the brunch menu is just damn tasty—especially after you’ve made a trip to their berry bar.
Shop Sophie stands behind one of her favourite pieces at Great Jones Home.
From in-your-face portraits to Gothic chandeliers at Kirk Albert Vintage Furnishings.
The two Watson Kennedy downtown stores are a must. Owner Ted Kennedy Watson is an award-winning master curator who has a veritable treasure trove of pieces that are small and precious enough to slip into your carry-on. Favourites include Ted’s collections of vintage lettering, and paper assemblages by Denise Fiedler.
DO
In Ballard you’ll find gentrified 120-year-old red brick buildings that retain their craggy facades and Historic Landmark status. Along Ballard Avenue pop into Lucca Great Finds for vintage chandeliers and quirky knickknacks. You’ll find midcentury furniture at Motel and Space Oddity, whimsical kids’ décor at Clover, contemporary furnishings at Camelion Design, and divine aromas at Blackbird Apothecary. Along Market Street, stop by Cupcake Royale for a bite, but it’s the paintings for sale by local artists that really get your attention. Nip down to Annie’s Art and Frame for cool posters and prints, then to Sonic Boom to pick up some vinyl and catch a free in-store performance. At 4pm, before the wait starts, get thee to The Walrus and The Carpenter oyster bar. July/August 2011 dabble 93
DABBLE DOES
“Seattle is all about discovering tucked away places, and design stores are no different. The true treasures are hidden from plain view and take a little effort to unearth.”
Not your grandmother’s china – thought provoking ceramics at Far4. OPPOSITE TOP LEFT
Curator Ted Kennedy Watson mingles with his creatively displayed wares at Watson Kennedy Fine Home.
OPPOSITE TOP RIGHT
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A quiet corner in Revival Home and Garden where you can contemplate their extensive fabric collection.
TRAVEL
Shop Kirk Albert Vintage Furnishings for the wow factor.
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DABBLE DOES
SEATTLE FOOD
Pretty in pink, Spur Gastropub’s foie gras is delicate and divine.
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5
TOP FOOD EXPERIENCES
1
Seattle is known for its gourmet food trucks like Skillet and Marination Mobile. But my favourite street food is always in the same place—a little pink surf shack on the way to Shilshole Beach in Ballard called Paseo. Stop in for their addictive Cuban/ Caribbean food like the legendary Pork Sandwich, recognised by Esquire and Food+Wine magazine.
2
At Sitka and Spruce you’ll find real Northwest food whipped up in a huge open kitchen. Shop, sip and sample local food and wine at the Melrose Market while you wait for your table. ABOVE The open
kitchen at Sitka and Spruce. Eggs dominate the must-do weekend brunch menu at Spring Hill.
3
The Book Bindery’s chef Shaun McCrain is a graduate of Thomas Keller’s PerSe—and it shows. Ask for a table by the window and watch the boats on the Fremont Canal. Stop at the winery and microdistillery next door for pre-dinner tasting. At Poppy, chef Jerry Traunfeld creates seasonally-inspired thalis (tasting trays) including herbs grown in the restaurant’s urban garden. Don’t miss the dessert thalis—a little taste of everything on the dessert menu.
4
Tired after a long day of sightseeing? Order the four-course chef’s tasting menu at Staple and Fancy Mercantile in Ballard and let renowned Seattle chef, Ethan Stowell, make your dinner decisions for you in his casual yet romantic modern Italian restaurant.
5
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“You could say we’re a little obsessed with our food,” says food contributor Fiona Van Alstyne.
Poppy restaurant’s thalis platters allow you to hop from one tantalizing dish to another, and back again. 98 dabble July/August 2011
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Fiona’s perfect
SEATTLE ITINERARY
Eat
Brunch: Owners Matt and Marjorie Fuller put new twists on comfort food favourites at Spring Hill. Try their sausage beignets with maple syrup. Come back for dinner for their best-in-town fried chicken. Afternoon craving: If in Ballard, try Honore’s kouign-amman, a salty-sweet pastry from Brittany. (Famous Seattle food blogger, Orangette, owns Delancy, the gourmet pizza place next door.) Dinner: The platings at downtown’s Spur Gastropub may look too gorgeous to eat, but we wholeheartedly recommend you do. If pork cheeks are on the ever-changing menu, don’t skip them. Try their homemade sodas made with seasonal ingredients like cucumber, mint and basil.
Stay Katelyn at The Calf and Kid at Melrose Market suggests her fave, Keens Cheddar from Neal’s Yard Dairy.
Staple and Fancy in Ballard rocks local seafood in their Italian-inspired dishes.
Pan Pacific Hotel Seattle boasts impeccable service, great views of the city, and not a trace of bad hotel food. The dining options include Seastar Seafood and Raw Bar, Tutta Bella pizza and a Whole Foods directly below.
Shop
Head to Melrose Market in Capitol Hill for onestop dinner party shopping – grab cheese for starters from The Calf and Kid, delicacies from Rain Shadow Meats’ custom-curing room, a bottle of local wine from Bar Ferd’nand, and flowers from Marigold and Mint. Dinner is served.
Do
Skip the touristy cruises and sail like the locals do. Grab picnic supplies from DeLaurenti at Pike Place Market then take an Emerald City Charters’ sunset sail. Pay a little more and have the yacht to yourself—then relax on deck or have the crew show you the ropes. (Note: seasonal)
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SEATTLE DRINK
There are many things to love about living in the diverse Capitol Hill neighborhood. A leisurely walk in almost any direction puts you in contact with a dizzying range of places to get everything from a cold beer, a great glass of wine, or an expertly assembled cocktail. Here’s a selection of places where you’ll undoubtedly run into our wine expert Jameson Fink. “All I ask is that you say hello, tip your bartenders generously, and tell ‘em Dabble sent you.”
It’s worth the short drive north of the city for tastings at Mark Ryan Winery in Woodinville.
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OPPOSITE Jameson Fink did the honourable thing and tasted up a storm at Schooner Exact Brewery and Two Beers Brewing Co.
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TOP DRINK EXPERIENCES almost enough to recommend a visit 1 It’s to Poco Wine Room just to meet owners
Bart and Peter, whose sense of humor is intoxicating. Add in a sleek, modern atmosphere, a vibe that can facilitate everything from contemplative solo reading to unbridled group hilarity, and you’ve got a neighborhood wine bar to frequent and cherish.
2
After you and your friends order a wild boar Sloppy Joe peruse the über-impressive list of beers on tap at Quinn’s. That beer selection gives Quinn’s the cachet to get those special, limited edition kegs of beer (I cannot name names or I will be banned) that our local, rabid beer geeks get wind of and drain in under an hour.
3
You’ve got to check out the gorgeous new Sun Liquor Distillery location on Pike. And how many bars have an on-site distillery? Say hi to Erik, one of the friendliest bartenders in the city, and don’t be afraid to engage him with all queries spirits-related. He’ll probably even let you drone on about your life a bit as well. (Thanks for listening, friend.)
4
I knew Gregg as one of my all-time favourite wine customers, but when I found out he was a bartender at Knee High Stocking Co., I had to let him pour me a drink. Text them to make a reservation and then ring a bell at a hidden-in-plain-sight location. Request a seat at the bar so you can banter with Gregg, and start with a glass of their punch du jour. I’ll admit I first came to the Barrio solely to drink the excellent margaritas but, if you go on a night Casey is behind the bar, get ready for some cocktail innovation. I became mildly obsessed with a ghost chiliinfused tequila with which he makes a myriad of memorable creations.
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“I’m always looking for places with thoughtfully prepared food and drink, with a nod to what’s in season.”
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At Tavern Law you’ll find highclass service in an intimate grown-up pub atmosphere.
TRAVEL
Jameson’s perfect
SEATTLE ITINERARY
Eat
I love going to La Bête because I know they might introduce me to my new favourite wine, like a sparkling rosé from Austria. This hidden space wrote the book on charm.
Stay
At the historic Sorrento Hotel in First Hill, drop your bags and head straight to a cozy seat and cocktail in the Fireside Room, then uncover The Hideout bar later. Check out the vending machine full of tiny creations from local artists.
Do
There are over 90 wine tasting rooms a short drive from Seattle in Woodinville—from the iconic Chateau Ste. Michelle which hosts a who’s who summer concert lineup, to scores of boutique wineries. Focus on the tasting rooms around The Hollywood Schoolhouse. Stop by Mark Ryan Winery and neighbor Ross Andrew Winery and taste The Dissident and Boushey Syrah, respectively. If it’s summer, beg Mark for a taste of Chardonnay, and beat the heat with the Pinot Gris from Ross.
Find
Tavern Law is rightfully known for cocktails but the food is just as noteworthy. The real secret is its upstairs hidden speakeasy, Needle and Thread, where reservations are a must and manager, Nathan, buzzes you up through the bank-vault door to be mixed cocktails according to your mood.
Taste
Beer tasting is in, have you heard? Head to SoDo for Two Beers Brewing Co. and Schooner Exact. Try Schooner’s 3 Grid, and their bourbon-barrelaged Hoppy the Woodsman, and you’ll be in hop-head heaven. Cab it to Georgetown Brewing Company—the birthplace of the ubiquitous Manny’s Pale Ale—then stop by the epicentre of comics at Fantagraphics. Add in a Ms. Piggy (roasted pork, onions, slaw, jack cheese, famous sauce) sandwich from nearby Smarty Pants and you have a perfect dude day.
Sun Liquor’s manager, Erik, is a master cocktail craftsman.
P.S. Sip judiciously, have a designated driver, or call a cab.
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DABBLE DOES
Despite being the birthplace of Starbuck’s Coffee, or perhaps because of it, Seattleites prefer to root for the little guy—the indie coffee house that sees coffee preparation as an art form. They roast their own fair trade beans out back, grind them to order, then create miniature works of art in froth that only last as long as you have to sit, sip and savour the creation. Here, the term barista is a smart career move, and coffee is serious business.
COFFEE & DONUTS
Join the queue at Daily Donut Company at Pike Place Market— don’t be deterred, it moves quickly.
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ABOVE Coffee never looked prettier, at Victrola Roastery and Café, than with a Mighty-O donut... we just couldn’t say no.
TRAVEL Indie Coffee Houses In a city buzzing with tech start-ups it’s not unusual to find CEOs (of a company of one) working off a café’s WiFi for hours at a time. Best geek ‘offices’ are Fuel in Madison Park and Zoka in Greenlake. For a straight-up good vibe, Zeitgeist in Pioneer Square is our pick, with Victrola Coffee Roasters and Espresso Vivace on Capitol Hill a close tie for second. For an artists’ hang-out try All City Coffee in Georgetown. For great food to go with your specialty brew, Le Pichet near Pike Place Market and her sister establishment, Café Presse in Capitol Hill, do fine French fare in a Euro-cozy atmosphere.
Donut City We love Mighty-O Donuts who recently took home top honours in a national Food Network Challenge event. In true Seattle style they are 100% organic and mighty tasty. The flagship store of a Seattle favorite, Top Pot Doughnuts is a must-do to get them fresh and hot.Try a Feather Boa for a bit of donut glamour. Grab a bag of mini donuts from Daily Dozen Donut Company while you wander Pike Place Market.
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DABBLE DOES
Scaling the REI Pinnacle Wall is a must-do weekend activity.
LEFT View of downtown from Alki
Beach where you can rent bikes, kayaks, and even scuba gear.
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Get your bearings with a quick 20 minute seaplane flight over Seattle with Kenmore Air.
SEATTLE TRAVEL “Seattle is like cozying up with a great cup of coffee on a rainy day—comforting, energizing and a feeling of coming home,” says our travel expert Anne Taylor Hartzell.
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TRAVEL
TOP TRAVEL EXPERIENCES
1
Get up close and personal with Seattle’s waterways in a kayak at Agua Verde Café & Paddle Club on Lake Union. Quench your thirst after a day of paddling with a signature prickly pear margarita and enjoy watching the parade of boats navigate the Montlake Cut that connects Lake Washington to Elliott Bay. the Elliott Bay Water Taxi from Pier 2 Hop 55 to Alki Beach in West Seattle for a
breathtaking view of Seattle’s skyline. Go for a stroll along Alki Beach Park’s 4km path and take in the beauty of Puget Sound. Grab fish and chips for dinner and light a beach fire pit at dusk. bikes at Recycled Cycles and bike 3 Rent the Burke Gilman Trail. Stop along
the way at Gasworks Park for a picnic with spectacular views of Lake Union.
Eat your way through Seattle with a Savor Seattle food tour. Our guide, Ezra, dazzled our taste buds and our brains with an insider look into the savoury food and rich history of Pike Place Market. Several tours are available to sample food from Seattle’s diverse specialty food shops, artisans, and neighborhood restaurants. Every tour comes with a 10 –15% VIP card good for discounts at food partners around Seattle. Tours start at $39 per person.
4
Take flight over Seattle in a Kenmore Air float plane to take in Seattle’s natural beauty with the Ultimate Seattle City Tour. Feel the rush as you lift off in a vintage bushplane from Lake Union to fly high above Sleepless in Seattle houseboat communities, magnificent lakeside and seaside estates of the city’s rich and famous, and bird’s-eye views of the majestic Mount Rainier. $89 per person.
5
Anne works up an appetite on Lake Union with a kayak from Agua Verde Café and Paddle Club.
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Seattle Playlist
Reaching beyond its grunge roots Seattle’s music scene is constantly evolving. Sample five of the Emerald City’s most influential bands of today: Fleet Foxes - Helplessness Blues Death Cab for Cutie - Codes and Keys Modest Mouse - Polar Opposites Dave Matthews Band - Spaceman Band of Horses - Laredo
The Experience Music Project’s towering guitar centrepiece sets the stage for its rotating exhibitions showcasing Seattle’s vibrant music history. 108 dabble July/August 2011
TRAVEL
Anne’s perfect
SEATTLE ITINERARY
Eat
Beecher’s Handmade Cheese at Pike Place Market serves the most delicious grilled cheese. Watch them mix huge vats of curds and whey while you pull apart the gooey goodness. Lines are long at lunch, so come early.
Stay
We love Hotel 1000’s hip vibe and friendly staff. Sometimes it’s the little things—you’ll find bags of ice near the elevators, so there’s no running with your bucket down the hall. Send him to the indoor virtual driving range while you enjoy the Spaahh. Meet up at Boka Kitchen and Bar for a martini or three.
Do
Scale to new heights at REI’s flagship store where you can climb The Pinnacle, a 63-foot indoor climbing rock in the middle of downtown. For a taste of the real thing, consider a climbing adventure of a lifetime with local awardwinning guide, Alpine Ascents.
Buy
Buy a Seattle City Pass to get nearly 50 percent off admission to the popular Seattle tourist attractions. Added bonus: get insider tips to skip main ticket lines.
See
The city’s rich musical history comes alive at Experience Music Project. Right now see Nirvana: Taking Punk to the Masses, which features a number of rare Nirvana artifacts. Catch a live show at The Crocodile, the birthplace of grunge music.
Do Two of our favourite dudes from Fremont Market. Other top neighbourhood markets include Ballard and Georgetown for produce and vintage pieces. Behind them shines the exterior of the Experience Music Project.
Opened in 1907, Pike Place Market is a vibrant bazaar filled with extraordinary food and great people watching. Catch a flying salmon at Pike Place Fish Market, buy just-picked blooms, and sample local produce. Try your hand at Around the Market in 80 Minutes, a discovery adventure game. July/August 2011 dabble 109
DABBLE DOES SANTA MONICA
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TRAVEL
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DABBLE DOES
The view from the Four Seasons Seattle rooftop pool looks over Puget Sound to the majestic Olympic Mountain Range. With a glass of local wine in hand, stay for a while‌
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. . . e tl at Se ss in
le ep le S
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TRAVEL GEEK
On the Go and Connected Travel news, insider info and new gadgets from Anne Taylor Hartzell. Summer is finally here and it’s time to hit the beach, hit the road and just plain get out of town. Wherever your travels take you this summer, it’s easier than ever to stay connected with these handy travel gadgets and apps.
Noteworthy sites
• GoGo Wireless In-flight Internet
www.gogoinflight.com We love, love, love GoGo wireless and now go out of our way to find flights that have it. GoGo Wireless offers in-flight wireless Internet access so you can stay connected even at 30k feet. Available on select flights on major airlines including Air Canada, American Airlines, Delta, Alaska Airlines and others, you can maximize time while traveling to your next destination. To check travel routes, visit http://www.gogoinflight. com/gogo/cms/airlines.do Unlimited $34.95, 24 hr pass, $12.95.
• Skype app for iPhone
www.skype.com Now you can call home from anywhere your travels take you with the free Skype app for iPhone. Download the app from the iTunes store and make free Skype-to-Skype voice and video calls over 3G and WiFi. You can also do video calls between iPhones or any other cameraenabled device. The mobile service still has some limitations, but overall is a great option for making free calls on the go. Free from iTunes.
Xcom Global’s MiFi rental service www.xcomglobal.com
Globetrotting hipsters who need to stay connected and loath international roaming charges or popping into Internet cafés to check email will love this personal wireless hotspot rental service from Xcom Global. Select departure and return dates and the MiFi will be shipped to you before you depart. Daily rental of MiFi Mobile HotSpot includes unlimited Internet access and is available in 40 countries. Starts at $12.95 per day.
On the radar
Apps for the road
Heys xScale® PRO
Groupon
www.heys.ca
A girl can never pack too many pairs of shoes. But it's important to know when you’ve reached your max. Weigh your luggage on the go with this tiny handheld digital scale. It calculates up to 110 lbs (50 Kg) and even has an overweight indicator; the LCD screen changes to red when luggage exceeds limit. $24.97 114 dabble July/August 2011
www.groupon.com
Never miss a deal when you travel. With deals available in over 160 cities, this handy little app helps you search by city to find deals wherever you roam and purchase instantly with the click of a button. Available on Android, iPhone and Blackberry devices. Free.
s es pr Ex e bl Dab
Smart Packing TRAVEL
Watching George Clooney strategize his way through security lineups in Up in the Air, it occurs to me that a lifestyle which includes logging frequent flyer miles yields some serious packing wisdom and rituals. Here are a few of my most resourceful tips for packing well. WORDS BY Kimberley Seldon
Tip 1: Tip 2: Tip 3:
Choose a suitcase with a colour or pattern that stands out. If you do travel with generic black luggage, you’ll want to distinguish it. Stick adhesive fluorescent labels—the kind cyclists wear—on the bag’s exterior. It’s effective and you can buy them at sports shops. I recently had a pilot stop me in the airport because he loved the idea. Make travel easy by keeping toiletries and hair tools in ready-to-go bags. I save room in my suitcase by strategic packing. For instance, my shoes are filled with underwear, t-shirts and socks. I can pack 12 velcro rollers in the space of four, by putting smaller sized rollers inside larger ones. Travel with Ziploc bags. I once purchased olive oil in the south of France and came home with a marinated wardrobe. I use the zippered bags to hold sunscreen, toothpaste, wet bathing suits and any item that might leak during transport. Oh yes, ...and wine.
Tip 4: Be strategic about where you shop. The American Express Gold Rewards Card offers double points at drug stores , so the toiletries you need for your trip can earn you extra points. The extra points can be used towards a new luggage set through Amex’s Membership Rewards Program. July/August 2011 dabble 115 Brought to you by the American Express Gold Rewards Card.
for s ce la P t es The B
yoga PHOTO BY: Alisa Katan
WORDS BY Stephanie Gray AND Jennifer Weatherhead
Bali
Attracting thousands of visitors yearly who come for enchantment near pristine beaches, thriving culture and deep spiritual roots, the Indonesian island of Bali is an idyllic destination to practice yoga. With incredible surfing conditions, this island encompasses the best of both worlds, as both surfing and yoga are so closely related. Surf Haven Bali retreat, for women only, is centrally located near the airport in Seminyak and offers its guests luxury five star villas, gourmet spa cuisine and experienced yoga and surf instructors. If your goal is to leave feeling pampered, rejuvenated and restored, the pure bliss of this surf/ yoga retreat more than satisfies.
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France
While beaches and yoga definitely go hand-in-hand, the countryside of France is a charming destination where rolling hills, lush vineyards and grand châteaux make up the scenery. Nestled in the Pyrenees valley you’ll find the 17-acre estate of Domaine de la Grausse, a yoga retreat run by yogi Dagmar and her husband, Mike. Offering twice daily yoga and weekly meditation classes, the itinerary is very flexible. Two self-contained barns make up the quaint accommodations. Both come with fully equipped kitchens so you can prepare your own food at leisure. Local markets and restaurants are nearby. It’s a perfect getaway to explore the French countryside while re-centring with daily yoga.
TRAVEL
British Columbia
Overlooking Kootenay Lake in southeastern British Columbia, the Yasodhara Ashram is tucked away amongst picturesque snowcapped mountains. During your stay at the ashram, expect to devote yourself entirely to the practice. A typical day starts with yoga and ends with chanting in the Temple, with plenty of reflection in between. Vegetarian meals, eaten in silence, are prepared with organic produce grown in their sustainable garden. Accommodations, primarily shared, offer laundry facilities, pay phones and limited email access. While you may not have all of the luxuries of home, the natural surroundings provide a tranquil atmosphere to help you reach your spiritual goals.
La Domaine - France
There are few places in the world more majestic than Peru. Steeped in rich Inca history and bordered by 1,500 miles of exquisite coastline and beaches, there are numerous ways to reach a spiritual high. The Samana Chakra in Máncora (near the Ecuador border) offers yoga retreats that incorporate ropes, chairs and props to achieve inner peace and better alignment. The hotel’s beachside setting eases away stress with private or shared accomodations. If you are seeking a healing retreat that encompasses Peru’s Inca heritage, venture into the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu region in the heart of the Andes. There, nestled in the jungled mountains, is Willka T’ika, where practice occurs in sunlit studios or in lush gardens encircled by mountain views which are sure to elicit a feeling of solace.
Stephanie and Jennifer strike contemplative poses.
Parrot Cay, Turks and Caicos
This ultra-luxe part of Turks and Caicos is frequented by celebrities such as Donna Karan, Bruce Willis and Paul McCartney, not only for its beauty, but also for its secluded privacy. So what better place to dig your feet deep in the sand and get in touch with your inner Zen? The COMO Hotel at Parrot Cay offers sessions for its guests on a daily basis free of charge. Take your pick from beach Yoga, group discussions, Pilates classes and more, in either a group or private setting. Weeklong retreats (five hours of practice daily) taught by visiting yoga masters are also available. Whether you meditate at a leisurely pace or seek an in-depth practice, your energy is easily recharged in a week at the COMO. Parrot Cay, Turks & Caicos
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PHOTO BY: justin harrington
Peru
Exposure DABBLE’S CREATIVE DIRECTOR AND PRINCIPAL PHOTOGRAPHER SIMON BURN STEPS FROM BEHIND THE LENS TO SHARE SOME TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS. Ah, Summer. It’s that time of year when we prepare to head off on vacation. Many of us will be armed with the latest and greatest digital cameras, with visions of shooting wonderful travel photos to remember our vacation by. We tend to shoot the people travelling with us standing in front of local landmarks, and endless shots of the beach, architecture and landcapes. This is all great but, if you really want to capture the spirit of the destination, don’t forget to shoot the locals. Wherever you are, people are an essential element to communicate local culture, and can help tell a compelling travel story.
Do
Have confidence. This is really important. Ask people if you can take their photos. Chat with them, even if you don’t speak their language, at least learn a few words and try to develop a rapport. Make an effort, make a fool of yourself, make them laugh. Point to your camera and point to them. Smile. You’ll be surprised how many will oblige.
Make travel Don’t
Go up to people and stick a camera in their face without permission. Respect local cultures and respect people’s privacy—you’re not the paparazzi. If they don’t look cooperative, smile and walk away. If you ask, remember the worst case scenario is they’ll say no.
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! n io cat va On
l photos that tell a story About the photo
When I was in Santiago de Cuba, I saw this vendor walking the streets with his horse and cart every day. This is a typical street scene in Cuba. It was also interesting because he was selling mamoncillos, a common local fruit that I saw many people eating as a refreshing snack. I really wanted to shoot the guy as he is an important part of local life. To develop a rapport, I went over to him and said “hola” and purchased a bunch of fruit. I then pointed to my camera
and to him, and he immediately posed. He was so proud, he even grabbed a bunch of mamoncillos and held them up—I didn’t even need to ask him. I had taken a shot earlier (FAR LEFT), typical of what most of us do, but it didn’t tell enough of a story. I wanted to see what kind of fruit he sold, and I wanted to see his face, weathered from years of walking in the hot sun. As with many locals, he was poor, but worked hard and was proud. The photo above reveals this. July/August 2011 dabble 119
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHERIE-LYNN BUCHANAN AND GORD MCKENNA
Dreaming of a trip to France? Moi aussi. So I pack my bags and do what any croissant-loving world traveller does, I fly to Newfoundland. Yes, Newfoundland. Then a short 45-minute hop soil via the charming, wee island of Saint-Pierre and neighbouring Miquelon. Et voilĂ . 120 dabble July/August 2011
PHOTO BY: GORD MCKENNA
on a commuter plane and I find myself on French
PHOTO BY: GORD MCKENNA
TRAVEL BY DESIGN
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SAINT-PIERRE AND MIQUELON Québec
NEWFOUNDLAND PEI
NOVA SCOTIA
MIQUELON
NFLD.
ST. PIERRE
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PHOTO BY: GORD MCKENNA
LANGLADE
TRAVEL BY DESIGN
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A PASSION FOR TRAVEL 134 1-2-3 DAYS
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PHOTO BY: GORD MCKENNA
The rugged islands of Saint-Pierre and Miquelon (with Langlade linked to its southern tip) are home to brightly painted cottages, fresh-offthe-boat seafood and centuries-old customs. Not to mention a selection of food and wine that’s bound to make, “Oh là là” escape from your lips. Follow Dabble to this unspoiled French destination and discover a new reason to dust off your passport.
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Dabble Savvy
This is Europe, so bring Euros and a proper voltage converter to recharge electronics in 220V outlets.
ABOVE LEFT Cannons built to defend against British attacks overlook the harbour.. ABOVE RIGHT Le monument des Marins
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PHOTO BY: GORD MCKENNA
commemorates local sailors lost at sea.
TRAVEL BY DESIGN
SAINT-PIERRE AND Miquelon Saint-Pierre and its sister island Miquelon are the last remaining lands in North America that are still part of France. Even with a light drizzle and oft-present ocean fog, Saint-Pierre charms with its French customs, pristine landscapes and a unique brand of joie-de-vivre. The challenge for urbanites is slowing the pace to match that of the locals. The 6,000 inhabitants of the most populous island, Saint-Pierre, are descended mostly from Breton, Norman and Basque fishermen who crossed the Atlantic for the cod and then stayed. The islands have changed ownership many times between France and Britain over the last several hundred years until1815, when they gained permanent French status.
Why do travellers visit this small dot on the Atlantic Ocean? The overwhelming response is to experience an unspoiled taste of France that is so temptingly close to North America. Dabble Savvy: When you greet friends in France, it’s customary to kiss on both cheeks.
Getting There
Travellers can only reach Saint-Pierre from Canada. Halifax, St. John’s and Montreal offer regular flights via Air St. Pierre. You can also take the passenger-only ferry from Fortune, Newfoundland which takes about two hours.
Do
We loved our mini-van tour with Le Caillou Blanc, run by the energetic couple, JeanClaude and Maryvonne Fouchard. Knowledgeable and enthusiastic, JeanClaude is a native son of Saint-Pierre and affectionately known about town as “the Man.” He lovingly reveals the island’s history and secrets which are not always discernible to the naked eye.
Stay
Book accommodations on Saint-Pierre which has a greater selection. Dabble Savvy: We found that most websites did not reflect the quaintness or quality of the venues. That said, think four stars rather than five.
Le Caillou Blanc tour guide, Jean-Claude Fouchard is a native of Saint-Pierre and son of a cargo ship captain. July/August 2011 dabble 125
SAINT-PIERRE AND MIQUELON
SAINT-PIERRE Shops, museums and restaurants are an easy walk about town. The dress is pretty casual, think Cape Cod rather than the Hamptons. Start the morning with a cup of strong coffee and a mille-feuille (layers of puff pastry with sweet custard filling). After all, there’s a lot of exploring to do so you’ll need your stamina.
Stay
Bed and breakfasts offer great value and a chance to practice your French. Chez Inès and Yvette Vigneau are immaculately clean and get top marks from repeat customers. For a more traditional hotel experience try the newly renovated boutique style, Nuits Saint-Pierre.
Do
Visit Musée Héritage to see a range of artifacts including alcohol-filled bottles from prohibition times. Did you know Al Capone is reputed to have visited Saint-Pierre during the dry spell? Saunter along the harbour and see Les Salines Fishing Stations, colourful fishermen shacks where they once salted and dried cod. Smile and say “fromage” next to the picturesque redand-white Pointe aux Canon lighthouse.
Buy
Time for wine? Then visit La Maison du Cadeau. Linger over floor-to-ceiling shelves of French champagnes and wines from Bordeaux and Bourgogne. Lucie Revert of Brasserie Mikhael adds the final touch to crême brulée au cointreau.
Breakfast
Pick up a freshly baked baguette at Boulangerie Girardier Patisserie and lay on the butter and jam.
Lunch
Restaurant Crêperie du Vieux Port specializes in, you guessed it, crêpes. Cyber Poly Gone Home is housed in a lime green building you can’t miss. That’s a good thing since chef Philippe Pupier serves a special of the day that’s not to be missed. If roti de porc de gratin de courgettes (stuffed pork with zucchini) is on the menu, order it. You’ll thank me later.
Dinner
Ongi Etorri is the only Basque restaurant (cuisine from northern France) in town. Owners Dominique and Cecile Hacala dish a superb tagliatelle with fresh tender scallops, perfect with a glass of Gewürztraminer. At L’Atelier Gourmand try chef François Rivollet’s fresh Miquelon lobster with chorizio sausage and avocado salad. Auberge Quatre Temps’ award-winning chef Pascal Vigneau chats with his guests before dishing out heavenly lobster and salmon (best accompanied with a chilled Muscade or Sylvaner) and the fluffiest lemon-lime cheesecake.
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TRAVEL BY DESIGN
ble Savvy Dab Restaurants are small and busy, so reservations are recommended. When planning your day, note that shops and businesses close for lunch at 12 noon and reopen around 1:30 or 2:00 pm.
PHOTO BY: GORD MCKENNA
Chef Philippe Pupier of Cyber Poly Gone Home takes a rare moment to stand still. The well-loved chef stays lean by jogging the hilly streets in town.
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PHOTO BY: GORD MCKENNA
SAINT-PIERRE AND MIQUELON
Dabble Savvy
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PHOTO BY: GORD MCKENNA
Tour guide, Anja Duthel speaks five languages and loves island living with her husband and three children.
Without stepping foot off the island it’s possible to touch English soil. British ship HMS Niobe went down here in 1874 with one casualty, Frederick Kempton. He’s buried in the local cemetery and his plot of land was presented to England as official British territory.
TRAVEL BY DESIGN
MIQUELON It’s 9:00 in the morning as passengers disembark from the ferry and set foot on Miquelon. It’s raining. Our tour guide, Anja Duthel guides us to her little car and we head to Le Petit Indien for a quick coffee; the first of several stops. By day’s end, we discover the allure of this tiny island lies in its unassuming residents. Miquelon is separated from Saint-Pierre by a 55-minute ferry ride across a 6-kilometre strait known for its strong currents. Its total population is about 600 and most of the residents are of Basque and Acadian ancestry. At Le Petit Indien, Olivier de Vetcheverry serves steaming coffee from his Italian Lavazza espresso maker. Excellent fortification for the leap back in time required to visit the Musée de Miquelon which is filled with centuries-old artifacts from shipwrecks and curiosities like French bank notes—they’re very large—from the 1930s. We finish off the trip with a hearty lunch of homemade pizza and crême brulée at Brasserie Mikhael.
Getting There
Le Cabestan ferry leaves Saint-Pierre for Miquelon at 8 am and returns to Saint-Pierre at 7 pm. Buy tickets at the Post Office building in Saint-Pierre the day before you go. Note: If the ferry rolls too much for your comfort, hum the tune to “Gilligan’s Island” or, better yet, ask one of the seafaring crew for a damp cloth to cool your brow.
Shop
Shop at Art Passion for jewellery and delicacies including foie gras, all made in Miquelon. Across the street is a market where you can pick up light fare for an afternoon snack.
See
The wild horses of Miquelon are likely descendants of Newfoundland ponies. They are comfortable approaching humans for food, so give them space as the cute little fellas nip!
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LANGLADE Minutes outside of Langlade Village, our tour guide Anja drives very slowly to cross a narrow strip of beach which is almost completely flooded by water. “Hold on,” she says, “if we don’t go faster we’ll get stuck.” (She does and we don’t.) It’s about 30 kilometres from Miquelon to Langlade Village and the last third is a gravel road. The Atlantic Ocean, always close, is rough and boisterous.
DForo the adventurous, there is one lighthouse
In the summer, the population of Langlade Village swells to 600 as it’s a popular vacation destination for les Saint-Pierrais. Today, we count a total of five human beings who are enjoying this community’s silent and rugged beauty. Walking around, we marvel at the well-kept homes surrounded by manicured gardens and lawns. The only sound is that of the wind.
Dabble Savvy: Make friends with the locals who can suggest the best places to camp and hike on Langlade. Some are even willing to lend visitors a bike for a quick tour around town.
On your way back to catch the ferry, stop at Cap Blanc Lighthouse, built at the request of the British who lost many ships off these rocky coasts. Scan the waves for whales and seals and stop to see the wild horses, who are bold enough to approach for food.
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on Langlade. Pointe Plate is accessible by boat or a 3-hour hike.
ble Savvy DAabpopular local character from prohibition times was Henri Morazé, whose family home (see photo below) is in Langlade Village. Morazé profited handsomely from prohibition and was eventually put under house arrest on Saint-Pierre for 40 years. You’ll see his name on alcohol-filled bottles in Musée Héritage.
TRAVEL BY DESIGN Born on Dog Island—what is now called L’Île-aux-Marins— just off the coast of Saint-Pierre, Joseph Admond has been fishing since he was 13 years old.
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SAINT-PIERRE AND MIQUELON
TRAVEL BY DESIGN
Bénédicte Foliot works at Auberge-St. Pierre. OPPOSITE Brightly painted buildings visible from the sea dot the town.
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SAINT-PIERRE AND MIQUELON
A PASSION FOR TRAVEL When American Express Canada approached me to test drive The American Express Gold Rewards Card, I was interested to see how far these points could take me. Earning double points on travel and everyday spending at the grocer, drugstore and gas station gave me a big head start to piling up the points. In addition, I also received a Welcome Bonus of 15,000 points upon signing up for the Card. In the short time I’ve had my Card, I’ve amassed an additional 11,000 points. Earning points is easy—the hardest part is deciding how to spend them. But I sure had fun in St. Pierre and Miquelon doing just that. - Kimberley Seldon
Shop
You’d expect the shopping in any city in France to be divine. I love La Maison du Cadeau for linens and soaps and Les Arts et Délices for decadent French confections and chocolate. Wine? Mais oui. Stop by Le Tire Bouchon. Make time for a picnic and pick up pastries and cheese at Patisserie Guillard. C’est bon.
Buy
Treat yourself to one of Isabelle Lafargue’s hand-painted porcelain pieces from La Butte. Whether it’s a vase rimmed in 18K gold or a teapot with platinum handles, her tabletop wares are one-of-a-kind.
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TRAVEL BY DESIGN
Design Express
American Express Gold Rewards Card After using my points to book a round trip flight to St. John’s, I was pleased at how easy it was to supplement my travel using points I earned on purchases. I’m going to shop anyway, so I may as well earn points. In total I saved approximately $500 on my fare to Saint-Pierre and Miquelon, which of course gave me yet another great excuse to go shopping. Thanks American Express Canada.
At La Maison du Cadeau, choose from a superb floor-toceiling selection, including French champagnes and wines from Bordeaux and Bourgogne. July/August 2011 dabble 135
SAINT-PIERRE AND MIQUELON
1-2-3 days in Saint-Pierre and Miquelon
Day 1 SAINT-PIERRE MORNING After a breakfast of coffee and croissants, jump in Jean-Claude’s roomy mini-van for an island tour. Stop at historic homes, abandoned fishing plants, the Pointe aux Canons lighthouse and Les Salines Fishing Stations to bask in the local colour. 12 NOON Lunch happens. You made a reservation, right? At Cyber Poly Gone Home relax with a glass of wine and the special of the day. MID-AFTERNOON If the urge for carbohydrates hits, Patisserie Guillard has an éclair with your name on it. Properly fueled, head to Musée Héritage for some island culture. EVENING Dinner at Ongi Etorri is a trip highlight. Then off to bed because tomorrow is an early start.
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TRAVEL BY DESIGN
Day 2
MIQUELON ET LANGLADE
Day 3 SAINT-PIERRE
MORNING Catch the 8 am Le Cabestan ferry to Miquelon. Disembark at 8:55 am and head to Le Petit Indien for coffee and breakfast. Get a taste of local history at Musée de Miquelon and local crafts at Art Passion.
MORNING Time to shop. Pick up French writing supplies at Nouvelle Papeterie, hip fashions at Diabolo-Menthe and French soaps and gifts at La Maison du Cadeau. While you’re at it, some chocolate from Arts et Délice is a great idea.
LUNCH The pizza is delicious, but you may be ready for a light salad at this point. Brasserie Mikhael in Miquelon serves both. NOTE: There are no restaurants on Langlade, so be prepared.
AFTERNOON A trip to France without a crêpe? Can’t imagine it. Enjoy the selection at Restaurant Crêperie du Vieux Port before you walk along the harbour and bid a final adieu to Les Salines Fishing Stations and Pointe aux Canons lighthouse.
MID-AFTERNOON There’s time for one last coffee at Le Petit Indien before the 7 pm ferry returns to Saint-Pierre. Say good-bye to Miquelon and promise to stay longer next time. EVENING Reserve a spot for dinner at L’Atelier Gourmand, which is conveniently near the ferry landing.
LATE AFTERNOON By now, you’ll have adapted to the slower pace of the island, so enjoy a leisurely walk up and down the town’s narrow hilly streets. Stop for coffee at the aptly named Pause Café (look for the building with the “Loto” sign). EVENING Tucked under trees at the top of a short incline is Auberge Quatre Temps. After a superb meal, enjoy a final stroll in the fresh night air. PHOTO BY: GORD MCKENNA
AFTERNOON Enjoy the unpredictable landscape and wild horses on your drive to Langlade Village. On the way back to Miquelon, scan the sea rocks for visiting whales and seals.
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We asked our food contributors...
What is your favourite meal to make on the barbecue?
Fiona VanAlstyne
"Cedar-planked Copper River salmon. Rich, buttery and sweetly smoky, served with grilled asparagus and baby red potatoes. The perfect summer food." A food and travel writer who loves to inspire others to eat and travel broadly. Born in Europe, Fiona has travelled extensively, living, working and eating her way around the globe. Each journey adds to her knowledge of and passion for food, travel and global culture.
www.ediblesociety.com @ediblesociety
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Theresa Albert
"I love to Barbecue Fish! There is something deliciously primitive about a whole fish becoming smoky and opaque over hot coals. All it takes is a little squeeze of lemon and some herbs and salad greens picked from the garden to make a meal." As a food and health writer Theresa is thrilled to focus more on sweet pleasure here at Dabble. Her love of food comes straight out of the days in her Tante Louise’s Kitchen in a tiny town in Quebec. In fact, it’s her middle name, Louise. www.myfriendinfood.com @theresaalbert
Jameson Fink
"I crave corn. A fresh ear with some char from the grill and a compound butter with salt, cayenne pepper, and caramelized shallots to slather all over it." After dabbling in the food and wine industry in Chicago, Jameson moved to Seattle in 2004 to pursue his passion for wine. Currently he is the European Wine Buyer and Social Media Director for Esquin Wine Merchants and consults for MadWine. He’d rather be drinking Champagne and eating popcorn right now. www.esquin.com @winewithjameson
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of e st ta a
flatbread WORDS AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY FIONA VAN ALSTYNE
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FOOD
Ready for summer? Dabble food contributor Fiona Van Alstyne is celebrating the arrival of sunny weather with good friends, cool cocktails and colourful platters of these far-flung flatbreads. We suggest you do the same. Italy This irresistible street food from the Romagna region of Northern Italy can be filled with everything from Gorgonzola to Nutella, but this prosciutto, arugula, cheese combination is a classic.
Prosciutto, Ricotta and Arugula Piadina 3½ cups all-purpose flour ½ tsp baking soda ¾ tsp kosher salt ½ cup lard or vegetable shortening, at room temperature 1 cup water 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, plus more for brushing 1½ cups fresh ricotta cheese 4 cups baby arugula 1 tsp fresh lemon juice ¼ lb thinly sliced prosciutto, mortadella or salami Freshly ground black pepper
Mexico
Spicy and delightfully crispy, Tlayuda is a popular “antojito” or street snack in the Oaxaca region of Mexico.
Oaxacan Tlayuda con Chorizo 2 cups canned black beans, drained, liquid reserved 1 tbsp minced garlic 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 tsp ancho chili powder 1 tsp cumin 2 large (12-inch) corn tortillas 1 cup chopped quesillo, queso fresco or feta 1 cup sliced chorizo 1 cup chopped cabbage or iceberg lettuce 1 tomato, cut into wedges 1 avocado, cut into wedges 1 lime to serve, cut into wedges Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Preheat oven to 450F. Place drained beans, garlic, onion, chili powder and cumin in a small pan. Cook gently over a medium heat until onion has softened a little. Place drained beans into bowl of food processor along with a little of the reserved liquid. Blend until roughly pureed. Place tortillas on baking sheet and spread with black bean puree. Sprinkle with cheese, chorizo and bake for about 5 minutes until topping is hot and tortilla is crisp on edges. Top with avocado and tomato. Cut into wedges and serve with lime and fresh salsa. Serves: 6
Stir together flour, baking soda and salt in bowl of stand mixer fitted with dough hook. Add lard and water and mix until dough is smooth—about 5 minutes, or longer if doing by hand. Divide dough into 6 balls, wrap in plastic and allow to rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Heat a cast iron skillet or frying pan until very hot. Roll each ball of dough into a circle, about 1/8” thick, and brush both sides lightly with olive oil. Reduce heat to medium and cook dough circles until golden brown on each side. Spread three of the bread circles with ricotta and season with a little salt and pepper. Arrange prosciutto and arugula on top. Stir together 1 tablespoon olive oil and lemon juice and drizzle over arugula. Top with remaining three bread circles, cut each sandwich in half, and serve warm. Serves: 6 July/August 2011 dabble 141
A TASTE OF
India India is arguably the flatbread capital of the world, home to more than 30 different varieties. We turned the popular naan into a savoury, flavourful and spicy treat that will leave you dreaming of the East.
Naan Pizzas with Spicy Lamb 8 mini naans (or 4 regular) 1 small onion, minced 8 oz ground lamb 1 clove garlic, crushed 1 tsp ground cumin 1 tsp ground coriander ¼ tsp red chili flakes 2 tbsp plain greek yogurt 2 tbsp pine nuts ½ cup fresh mint, chopped ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped 1 cup crumbled goat cheese Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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Preheat oven to 400F. Place onion, lamb, garlic, spices and yogurt into a medium bowl. Season with salt and pepper and mix together. Top naan breads with lamb mixture and sprinkle with pine nuts and goat cheese. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until lamb is cooked through. Sprinkle with cilantro and mint before serving. Serves: 4
FOOD
TIP Use good quality Spanish olive oil if you can find it. It has a distinct flavour compared to oils from other regions.
Spain A staple of Mediterranean Spain, the chewy, oblong flatbreads known as coques are the ultimate comfort food for locals and travellers alike. This summery version makes great tapas when cut into small pieces.
Coca de Recapte 1 heaped cup flour 1 level tsp active dry yeast ½ tsp salt ½ cup extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for brushing ½ cup lukewarm water 1 clove garlic, finely chopped 1 large sweet onion, sliced thinly 1 pinch chili flakes 1 large sweet red pepper, sliced thinly 2 small zucchini, thinly sliced Salt and pepper to taste 4 oz cherry tomatoes, halved ¼ cup olives, optional 1 tbsp oregano, finely chopped Extra flour or polenta for baking sheet
Preheat oven to 400F. Stir together flour, yeast and salt in bowl of stand mixer fitted with dough hook. Add oil and water and mix until dough is smooth—about 5 minutes, or 10 minutes if kneading by hand. Cover bowl with tea towel and allow to rise for about 3 hours at room temperature. Using your fingertips, lightly stretch dough into an oval shape. Brush both sides with olive oil and place on a baking sheet sprinkled with flour or polenta. Heat remaining olive oil in a pan, add garlic, onion, chili flakes and peppers and cook until al dente. Stir in zucchini and cook for a few more minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Arrange topping over bread and bake for 30 minutes, or until crust is golden brown. Sprinkle with oregano and serve warm or at room temperature. Serves: 4 July/August 2011 dabble 143
A day with
3 chefs
Michael Bonacini, Massimo Capra and Jason Parsons PHOTOGRAPHY BY Ian Garlick
Whether they’re in the kitchen, at the table, or on TV Michael Bonacini, Massimo Capra and Jason Parsons bring excitement to the art of cooking. Dabble asked the three kitchen men to agree on a perfect day’s fare. The results are mouthwatering.
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PHOTO BY: Evan Dion
Pick up 3 Chefs: The Kitchen Men for more tasty meal ideas from Michael, Massimo and Jason.
FOOD
I’m a creature of habit and this is one of my favourite treats on weekends. It’s a great brunch dish for anyone (like me) who prefers breakfast to be on the savoury—rather than sweet—side. Although the ingredients are fairly simple, I love the complexity of flavours and textures involved. —Michael
breakfast Poached Eggs with Swiss Chard, Bacon, Chorizo, and Hollandaise 1 tbsp butter 1 cup diced bacon, ½ inch chunks 1 cup chorizo sausage, diced ½ small onion, diced ½ clove garlic, minced 1 bunch Swiss chard, stems and centre ribs cut out and chopped, leaves coarsely chopped salt and pepper 2 tbsp malt vinegar 4 eggs 1 cup hollandaise
Heat the butter in a sauté pan over medium-high heat. Gently sauté the bacon and chorizo until the bacon is crisp and the sausage is golden brown. Remove from the pan and drain some of the excess oil. Turn heat to low and cook the onions and garlic for 2 to 3 minutes. Add the Swiss chard stems and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the leaves and season with salt and pepper. Continue cooking and stirring for 8 to 10 minutes. Add back the bacon and chorizo. Cover the pot, turn off the heat, and let sit. In a separate pot of boiling, salted water, add the malt vinegar and poach the eggs gently for 3 minutes. Divide the chard mixture between two plates and perch two poached eggs on top. Spoon the hollandaise over the eggs; sprinkle with chives and smoked paprika.
1 tsp chopped chives
Serves 2
pinch smoked paprika
Cook’s note: I like to use apple-smoked bacon, but any good quality bacon will do.
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lunch
A DAY WITH
I travel a lot and one of my favourite choices when dining out is a roasted beet salad. This is my interpretation of a standard, where the sweetness of the roasted beets with the tartness of the goat cheese is a match made in heaven. — Massimo
Roasted Beet Salad with Goat Cheese 12 baby beets, 4 each red, golden, and candy-striped 7 tbsp olive oil 12 baby carrots 12 small red radishes 8 green onions Salt and pepper 3 tbsp white balsamic vinegar 3 cups mixed baby greens 12 oz goat cheese ½ cup toasted walnuts 2 oranges, segmented
Preheat the oven to 400°F. Toss the beets with 2 tablespoons of the olive oil and place them in a baking dish. Wrap the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes, until the beets are tender. Toss the carrots and radishes with 2 tablespoons of the olive oil and place them in a baking dish. Cook, uncovered, for 20 minutes or until tender. When the beets are cooked, let them cool, then peel and halve them. Separate the colours so the red ones don’t bleed into the others. Dress the cooked carrots and beets while still warm with some salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon each of olive oil and vinegar. Set aside. Preheat a grill pan and grill the green onions on all sides. Set aside to cool. Place a handful of greens on each plate and arrange a mixture of roasted vegetables on top. Crumble some goat cheese on each plate and sprinkle a few walnuts on top. Garnish with the green onions and the orange segments, then dress with the remaining olive oil and vinegar. Season with salt and pepper. Serves 6
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FOOD
Many people do not realize that the secret to keeping a burger moist while cooking is adding some kind of fat to it. In this case, I use lean beef and the fat from the bacon. When it comes to taste, bacon fat trumps beef fat any day. —Jason
dinner Burgers: 3 lbs lean ground beef 2 cups diced aged cheddar cheese ½ cup finely chopped herbs ¼ cup chopped onion ¼ cup hoisin sauce 2 tbsp finely chopped garlic 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce 2 cups chopped bacon 2 eggs ½ cup breadcrumbs 3 tsp salt 3 tsp ground white pepper
Ultimate Burger
Glaze: ½ cup barbecue sauce ¼ cup hoisin sauce 2 tbsp honey 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Assembly: Cook the burgers on a very hot grill, brushing with the glaze each time they are turned. Warm the buns on the side or on the top rack. Once the burgers are cooked through, remove from the grill and brush once more with the glaze.
Garnish: 8 burger buns ¼ cup grape mustard (or Dijon) 16 leaves watercress 16 slices tomato 8 slices red onion
Spread the mustard on the bottom layer of the bun. Add the burger, watercress, sliced tomato, and onion; cap with the bun top.
Burgers: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, cheddar, herbs, onion, hoisin, garlic and Worcestershire. Sauté the bacon over medium heat until cooked through. Add the warm bacon, including the fat, to the beef mix. Stir in the eggs, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Once it’s well combined, form the mixture into 8 evenly sized burgers and chill. Glaze: Combine the barbecue sauce with the hoisin, honey and cinnamon.
Cook’s note: The chopped herbs can be any mix of your favourite seasonings. I like tarragon, parsley and chives. July/August 2011 dabble 147
There’s an app for that... Deep fried pickles are an unexpected, crowd pleasing appetizer, ideal for a cool summer soirée. Serve them with a tasty Prosecco and everyone leaves happy, says our no-nonsense wine expert Jameson Fink.
Pickles and Prosecco Anything battered, crunchy and fried is great with bubbles, so why not deep-fried pickles? No need for fancy Champagne, opt for a tasty, refreshing Prosecco with a bit of softness to balance tart pickles. Jameson’s Pick: Adami Garbèl 13.
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FOOD
“Eggs Florentine are a breakfast classic,” says resident chef Corey Burgan.
h tc ra sc from
eggs florentine RECIPE BY COREY BURGAN
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FROM SCRATCH
Ingredients 10 eggs 1 tomato, diced ½ onion, diced 1 bunch basil 1 bunch chives salt and pepper 1 baguette (¼" slices) 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar 3 tbsp white vinegar 1 lb spinach 2 tbsp butter PREPARATION Butter slices of bread on both sides and place on a non-stick baking sheet.
DIRECTIONS
Preheat oven to high broil. Combine diced tomatoe, onion and balsamic vinegar in bowl; season with salt and pepper. Place in the fridge. In large skillet, bring 1½" of water and the white vinegar to a boil. Break eggs one at a time into the boiling water. Use a slotted spoon and stir gently in a circular motion. While eggs are cooking place the baguette slices under the broiler. Remove when toasted. Cook eggs 2 to 4 minutes or until desired firmness. Remove with slotted spoon, allow water to drain, and place eggs in a bowl. In a large frying pan sauté the spinach in butter until wilted. Remove from heat. In a small glass, add tomato mix as the base, then add a layer of spinach. Top with poached egg and drizzle with Hollandaise sauce. Garnish with basil leafand chive sprout; serve with slice of toast.
“
“
Be creative. Add a layer of smoked salmon or chopped bacon to take it up a notch.
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FOOD
Serves 10 Prep Time 15 min. Preheat high broil
Hollandaise sauce 10 egg yolks 2 cups butter 2-3 tbsp apple cider vinegrette 4-5 dashes Tabasco 4-5 dashes Lea and Perrins salt and pepper DIRECTIONS
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. In a bowl, combine egg yolks, apple cider vinegrette, Tabasco and Lea and Perrins. Whisk approximately 2 minutes, until combined. Slowly stir in the melted butter adding half a cup at a time. Whisk to preferred thickness, then set off to the side. To serve, pour or spoon over eggs. Add salt and pepper to taste.
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ct fe er P c ni Pic
Prepare a basket of fresh fruit and veggies, sliced whole grain pita and a selection of cheeses.
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FOOD
te da r ne Din
keep it simple Dabble food contributor David Laudenback says, if you really want to impress your gal, keep it simple. The setting is often more important than the meal.
The Challenge: Quick, it’s time to make up. No one wants to spend summer’s hottest days getting the cold shoulder. The Solution: There is nothing more romantic than a picnic on the beach. If the ocean isn’t accessible, a scenic park or even the backyard is a perfect alternative. Keep the meal simple and show her you actually listen to healthful food promptings by serving a vegetarian menu. (Carnivores, have a burger before she gets home.) Guy Wisdom: It’s the little things that count. So don’t stress over creating the perfect candlelit table setting or extravagant meal...this time. Step outside your door and enjoy the beautiful summer weather, a simple meal, and a precious moment with your gal.
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e nc ge Sindul
Can’t Elope Salad
THERESA ALBERT KNOWS HOW TO SATISFY THIRSTY PALATES WITHOUT ADDING UNNECESSARY CALORIES. IT’S JUST ONE OF THE REASONS DABBLE LOVES THE AUTHOR OF Ace Your Health.
Nothing refreshes like ice cold balls
INGREDIENTS
of melon, and for good reason.
1 cantaloupe 1 canary melon (or other) 1 seedless watermelon ¼ cup mint leaves ¼ cup pure cane sugar*
Melon’s high water content makes it an ideal summer snack. Combine three different types of melon,
INSTRUCTIONS
enhance just a bit and enjoy a
Use a melon baller or simply cube all three melons into one large bowl. Pluck mint leaves from stem, wash and stack 4 to 5 deep. Slice thinly across the leaf and toss into the melons. Keep ice cold and serve over a dish of shaved ice. Grate and sprinkle cane sugar over individual bowls at the last second.
low-cal, vitamin packed indulgence.
*Pure cane sugar can be found at Asian or East Asian shops or in grocery stores with an ethnic section. It looks like a big chunk of maple sugar candy and has a delicious caramel/molasses taste. If you can’t source this ingredient, substitute Demerara or Turbinado Sugar.
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FOOD
Serves 24 Prep Time 15 min.
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“My best results happen when I truly listen to myself ”
“Songwriting is one of my favourite elements of music. It is such a beautiful feeling to capture my ideas and emotions through music and having people connect to my songs. I love to tell REAL stories, whether it is a personal experience, or a perspective I believe needs to be heard.”
I dabble in... songwriting
I dabble in...
Tenille Nadkrynechny picked up a guitar at the age of 13. After learning three chords, she began writing lyrics and composing melodies. Now at 17, this busy highschool student finds time to enjoy life as a singer, songwriter and performer of country music.
I dabble in... watersk 156 dabble July/August 2011
Want to ’s hear Tenille debut CD? Click here.
I dabble in... fundraising “Being able to bring people together through the love of music is such an inspiring opportunity. In 2010, I started a concert fundraiser called “Big Hearts for Big Kids” in support of the local youth shelter in my home town of Grande Prairie, Alberta. It is truly a rewarding experience.”
“My ultimate goal is to make a difference through music.”
skiing
“Waterskiing is a family sport for me. My dad is a competitive water skier and the best coach I could ask for. I’ve been participating in watersports since I was a little kid.”
Follow Tenille.. f
t
w
www.facebook.com/realtenille @_Tenille www.tenille.ca
We want to profile you... 1. Tell us what you Dabble in. 2. Submit your entry with photos. 3. You may be our next “I dabble in....” profile. Every issue will feature one or more unique Dabble readers. July/August 2011 dabble 157
Just a dab