FEBRUARY 2014
Kimberley Seldon Editor in Chief
Victoria Drainville Executive Editor / Art Director
Cheryl Horne Managing Editor
Photographer Simon Burn
Design Contributors Lisa Canning Christine Da Costa Nicholas Rosaci
Travel Contributors Beth Halstead
Food Contributors Corey Burgan Jameson Fink
Design & Styling Team www.kimberleyseldon.com
Managing Director Marketing & Communications Amy Victoria amy@kimberleyseldon.com
Media and Public Relations media@dabblemag.com
Owned and Published by Kimberley Seldon Productions Inc. Cheryl Horne, Managing Director cheryl@kimberleyseldon.com
909 Mount Pleasant Road, 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 informational 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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February 2014
EDITOR’S MUSINGS Follow me... t f
@kimberleyseldon www.facebook.com/KimberleySeldon
Kimberley photographed at interior designer Lynn Morgan's residence in Savannah. Her home is the cover of Houses with Charm.
Southern Style Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil showed up on a required reading list when I was in university. I remember thinking the title offered me little hope for enjoyment. How wrong I was. Not only did the plot capture my imagination, this was one of the first times I remember being intrigued by the interiors that made an appearance throughout the story. When I booked my flight to Savannah, in advance of our Dabble shoot, I wasted no time getting a reservation to tour Mercer House, the real life setting for author John Berendt's famous novel. As I wandered the infamous setting, the rooms felt familiar, but even more elegant than I imagined. Interestingly, Savannah had a similar impact on me. It also proved to be an experience even more satisfying than imagined. We hope you'll love our latest issue of Dabble with its Savannah and southern style focus. Wishing you safe travels and happy surprises wherever you Dabble.
Kimberley Seldon
Editor in Chief
February 2014
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10 Dabble Here, Dabble There, Dabble Dabble Everywhere 11 Contests Win Susan Sully’s Houses with Charm
ON THE COVER 28
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Southern hospitality and shopping paradise at Paris Market & Brocante.
February 2014
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Dabble Digs
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Just a Dab
NYC...
Wednesday, April 30 Sunday, May 4, 2014
Customized events: nothing off the tourist menu Fine accommodation: the luxurious Waldorf Astoria Private Home Tours: surprise celebrity designer! Shop ‘til you drop: fave design stops & learnings Delicious food & wine: decadent experiences Good friends: that’s where you come in!
HOME TOUR 14
Southern Style Photography by Susan Sully
ts en nt co of e tabl
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What’s Trending #BlondWood
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Infusion Michael Owens
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App for That Fried Green Tomatoes
February 2014
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Feb. 18
Cityline - Chatelaine Day
here,
Kimberley and the Chatelaine crew review entries and double-duty furniture. www.cityline.ca
Feb. 20
Cityline - Home Day
there,
Don’t miss Cityline with Dabble's Editor in Chief, design expert Kimberley Seldon. www.cityline.ca
Design Express 2014: New York City
Apr-May 30-4
Join Kimberley Seldon in the Big Apple!
everywhere
Hotel: Waldorf Astoria When: April 30 - May 4 (5 days, 4 nights) Cost: $4,495/ double occupancy $5,790/ single occupancy
www.kimberleyseldon.com/events
Contests...
t f
@dabblemag www.facebook.com/dabblemag
Congrats!
Congrats Diana Pincombe from London, ON. The Fujifilm Instax Mini 90: is a camera with advanced features like bulb and double exposures, macro mode and high performance flash. Perfect for capturing those unforgettable moments and printing them on the spot. Value: $180 Courtesy Fujifilm
Win 1 of 3! Susan Sully’s Houses with Charm Susan's latest coffee table book celebrates the warmth and easy elegance of traditional Southern architecture and design. Homes with unpretentious, old-fashioned grace that showcase the talents of the South’s finest design professionals. Photography by Susan Sully. Value: $39.95/ each Contest closes February 26th Enter to Win! Courtesy Rizzoli
February 2014
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digs
WORDS BY LISA CANNING PHOTO COURTESY Ebby Rane Your Personal Valet This beautiful case keeps you stylish and organized with its labelled interior compartments. The Quartermaster, CA$1,145, Ebby Rane www.ebbyrane.com
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February 2014
Insta-Glam Interiors strike it rich with this sparkling collection of lustrous textiles. Gold leaf fabrics, US$44 – US$138 per yard, Robert Allen www.robertallendesign.com
Fresh Express Keep up resolutions of eating well with this fast slicing and grating tool. Fresh Express, CA$100, T-Fal www.t-fal.ca
Artisanal Accessories Add an artisanal touch to your home with hand-embroidered pillows created by women in India. Hand-embroidered pillow, (below) US$109, (left) US$93, Leah Singh www.leahsingh.com
Sunny Side Up
A side table sunny enough to brighten winter blahs. Ace Side Table, CA$129, Urban Barn www.urbanbarn.com
Beautiful Balsamic The contents of these bottles look as good as they taste. Balsamic vinegars, CA$16 – CA$30, Olive & Olives www.oliveolives.com
Personalized Passport
You won’t mix up your passports when every member of the family has a personalized leather cover. Passport Holder, US$22, Bambina www.etsy.com/shop/bambina February 2014
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HOME TOUR
In a sheltered corner of the front porch, a hanging teak daybed with plentiful pillows becomes an inviting swing. Obsidian coloured paint for the floors and shutters combines playfully with melon coloured upholstery.
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February 2014
DESIGN
Southern Style PHOTOGRAPHY BY SUSAN SULLY FROM HOUSES WITH CHARM
Isle of Hope, a tiny island outside Savannah, is an enchanted place with quiet streets, charming cottages, no streetlights and quaint oak trees blowing in the southern breeze. What’s your hurry? Sit a spell.
February 2014
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HOME TOUR A pair of antique tête-à-tête sofas, an eighteenth-century mirror, and a chandelier with cascading strands of ball chain provide the parlor with a sexy, sophisticated air.
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February 2014
“
The house
“
DESIGN
told us
what it
wanted us to do.
”
February 2014
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HOME TOUR
Homeowners Lisa and Vincent West were enamoured of the simple style of the cottage and the airy atmosphere of its high ceilings and two-story porch. It’s very much a traditional Lowcountry house.
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February 2014
Lowcountry
February 2014
DESIGN
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Casual
HOME TOUR
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February 2014
DESIGN At the suggestion of interior designers Carter Kay and Nancy Hooff, the dropped ceiling was removed, exposing the original longleaf pine joists and trusses. In addition to lending a casual appearance to the room, the change also draws attention to the solidity and integrity of the house’s original construction.
February 2014
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HOME TOUR
Primitive creamware jugs and convex mirrors are among the few decorative accessories in the room where a scenic mural painted by Bob Christian provides the art.
Grace
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February 2014
DESIGN In keeping with the client’s pared-down vision, the designers commissioned a twelve-foot-long table made from worn but polished reclaimed chestnut boards, complementing the unpainted wood of the ceiling and mantel. Chairs consist of casual wicker with linen slipcovered headchairs.
February 2014
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HOME TOUR
In a small bedroom, the designers created an airy look with contemporary metal beds that recall the tall canopy frames of traditional plantation-style beds. The sheen of quilted polished cotton pillow shams and comforters contrasts with the room’s natural linen coverlets and seagrass rug.
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February 2014
Visit the 8 design gallery
Airy
DESIGN
February 2014
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Sleipe Light Collection Made to Order, EhoEho www.ehoeho.com
Maple Set Knives Available early 2014, The Federal www.brand.thefederal.co
what’s trending
#BlondWood PRODUCED BY CHRISTINE DA COSTA
Do blonds really have more fun? Sure seems that way. At least it did at Toronto's recent Interior Design Show. The beauty and warmth of light toned wood - whether it’s Scandi or Canadiana inspired - is on trend for 2014. Table Tokyo CA$1,400.00, loic bard www.loic-bard.liki.com
Blonds have more fun!
Like hair colour, there's bound to be a shade just right for you.
The Piano by Patrick Seha Starts at CA$1,950, Nieuw www.nieuw.ca
Elbow “Ollie” Lounge = Work Chair Made to order, Brothers Dressler www.brothersdressler.com
Check online for 8 more blond wood 26
February 2014
Infusion PRODUCED BY VICTORIA DRAINVILLE
colour
Unlike the real thing, this faux-gator box sits lazily on a bookshelf and never poses a threat.
texture
A sweetgrass bar cart serves up Southern charm with practical ease.
A lazy Georgia alligator rests on a weathered log. The sultry colour and texture captured by Michael Owens' image has unleashed our decorating wild side.
shape
Ignite an indoor landscape with a woodsy cylinder candle. A trio enlivens the mantle.
February 2014
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DABBLE DOES
PRODUCED BY VICTORIA DRAINVILLE PHOTOGRAPHY BY SIMON BURN 28
February 2014
TRAVEL
Charm, history, romance and mystery Savannah is a destination that has it all. Spend even a short while in this Low Country gem and you’ll succumb to the charms of its warm hospitality, unique southern cooking, and architectural wealth.
February 2014
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DABBLE DOES
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February 2014
TRAVEL
Savannah’s famous city squares are among North America’s first urban planning success stories. Stately homes, churches and museums are built around a system of grids, comprised of 24 squares, most often culminating in beautiful parkland shaded by majestic oaks draped with Spanish moss. We sent three Dabble contributors to explore Savannah’s design, travel and food scene.
February 2014
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DABBLE DOES
SAVANNAH DESIGN
Vintage and contemporary wares at Paris Market & Brocante. 32
February 2014
TRAVEL
Win!
Susan’s book Houses with Charm
Susan poses with fine antiques at Arcanum.
Author of The Southern Cottage, The Southern Cosmopolitan, Savannah Style and recently, Houses with Charm, Susan Sully is an ideal guide to Savannah’s design scene.
February 2014
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DABBLE DOES
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TOP DESIGN STORES Brocante typically refers to vintage treasures that have charm but lack the steep price tag of antiques. Thanks to the impeccable taste of buyer-cum-owner Paula Danyluk Paris Market & Brocante is two decadent floors of such European finds.
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Take something home for the garden from the floral design studio, Madame Chrysanthemum. 34
February 2014
TRAVEL
Shop the Design District on Whitaker Street and be sure to visit One Fish, Two Fish. Enjoy the mix of vintage and contemporary goods with a coastal vibe. February 2014
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DABBLE DOES If you love art, Savannah is the place to immerse yourself. See artists in action on River Street or choose from a selection of eclectic art at Shop SCAD (RIGHT).
Click here for 8more design stores 36
February 2014
TRAVEL
February 2014
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DABBLE DOES
SAVANNAH TRAVEL
These holes, evident in the sanctuary floors of The First African Baptist Church, had a dual purpose. On the surface they represent a common tribal symbol, but more importantly, they provided air to enslaved people hiding at this Underground Railroad stop. 38
February 2014
TRAVEL
Victoria takes a reading break in front of Mercer House. The classic Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil is based on true events that occurred right here.
“Once you leave Savannah, you’ll miss it,” says Dabble’s executive editor Victoria Drainville.
February 2014
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DABBLE DOES
The Old Savannah Cotton Exchange, built in 1887 is now the headquarters of the Savannah Chamber of Commerce.
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February 2014
TRAVEL
There’s some good dinner to be caught at the Fort Pulaski Bridge, but we’re leaving it up to Arnold Dorsey to make the catch!
February 2014
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DABBLE DOES
First African Baptist Church member, Rebecca Wilson sits in one of the original pews. 42
February 2014
There’s nary a thirsty pirate or sailor in sight, but they still serve great victuals and grog at The Pirate’s House.
TRAVEL
5 TOP
TRAVEL
1
EXPERIENCES
Immerse yourself in history with a moving visit to the First African Baptist Church. Built by enslaved people, the church dates to 1859 and is most wellknown as a stop on the Underground Railroad. Book an appointment to visit with a guide or don your Sunday best and come for services where you can enjoy the choir.
here for more 8 Click travel experiences February 2014
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DABBLE DOES
SAVANNAH FOOD
Although it’s a traditional fave, The Olde Pink House has a few modern tricks up its culinary sleeves as evidenced by this interpretation of shrimp and grits with country ham. 44
February 2014
TRAVEL
Adam Turoni lets Janeen be the first to try chocolates he’s prepared that day.
“Low Country cookin' is a blend of coastal, country and West Indies cuisine,” explains foodie Janeen Laudenback.
February 2014
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DABBLE DOES
en ch it K n her ut So Shrimp and Grits Mac n’ Cheese She-Crab Soup Gravy and Biscuits Corn bread Fried Green Tomatoes Collard Greens Black Eyed Peas
Dine in one of several grand dining rooms in the 18th Century Mansion known as The Olde Pink House. 46
February 2014
TRAVEL
When you dine at Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room (and you must!) say hello to owner Marcia Thompson, seen here with her son Ryan. This famous food destination serves humble southern classics, family style. P.S. You won’t leave hungry.
5 TOP
FOOD
1
EXPERIENCES
Experience authentic southern food at Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room. Ask anyone leaving the restaurant (go ahead, ask everyone...you’ll have to wait at least an hour) and the praise will be high. Once inside you’ll be seated family style and encounter a staggering number of dishes to try. Fried chicken, biscuits, yams, okra, lima beans, corn bread and more. Try it all!
Before leaving, take your dish to the kitchen as an ode to the old boarding house it once was. Even President Obama bussed his dishes.
February 2014
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DABBLE DOES
here for more 8 Click food experiences
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February 2014
TRAVEL Once a pharmacy, the Gryphon Tea Room has a stunning stained glass ceiling and a grand interior. You’ll go as much for the setting as the delicious meal and savoury petit four treats.
February 2014
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DABBLE DOES
Dabble’s
1-2-3 days in Savannah
Day 1
MORNING Have a light breakfast at your hotel, you’ll want to save room for lunch. MID-MORNING Make it a design day. Start at Forsyth Park and enjoy the majestic fountain before you stroll along Bull Street to West Jones Street for some shopping. 12 NOON Get in line early (10:30-11:00 am) because you won’t want to miss family style dining at Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room. AFTERNOON After a large meal, take a walk through the Design District on Whitaker Street. Visit One Fish, Two Fish, Arcanum and No. Four Eleven. LATE AFTERNOON Book a tour at Mercer House and enjoy the interiors (and the tiny garden) so deliciously described in Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. Shop the Mercer Carriage Store for goodies to take back home. EVENING Once you’ve walked off your lunch and gained an appetite again, have a delicious urban-style meal at Local 11 Ten.
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February 2014
TRAVEL Cross the Talmadge Memorial Bridge and enjoy a unique vantage point for Savannah. If you are staying in Savannah, we recommend any of the historic inns or the Westin Hotel (where this photo was taken).
Day 2
MORNING Have a tasty breakfast at B. Matthew’s on East Bay Street. MID-MORNING Continue along East Bay Street and shop the Factors Walk towards City Market. 12 NOON You must be hungry again? Stop for a cheesy slice at Vinnie Van Go-Go. AFTERNOON Dedicate at least three hours to shopping on Broughton Street. LATE AFTERNOON Coffee time. Make it a café au lait at The Paris Market & Brocante.
Day 3
MID-MORNING If you’ve got time for a day trip you won’t want to miss Tybee Island. 12 NOON Enjoy some fresh seafood at the Crab Shack: “Where the elite eat and shop in their bare feet.” AFTERNOON Lounge on the beach and take advantage of the Savannah sun. EVENING Return to Savannah for a fabulous meal at the Olde Pink House. If you don’t see a ghost there, take a late night Ghost Walking Tour.
EVENING Head back towards East Bay Street for a lovely meal and great views at Vic’s On the River.
February 2014
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DABBLE DOES
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February 2014
TRAVEL Stroll River Street for views of the Georgia Queen and Talmadge Memorial Bridge.
February 2014
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The App
Fried Green Tomatoes
Jameson’s Pick
Blue Mountain Brut
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February 2014
FOOD
There’s an app for that... WORDS BY JAMESON FINK PHOTOGRAPHY BY SIMON BURN
I’m not sure what Savannah and British Columbia have in common, but perhaps we could get the conversation started over some fried green tomatoes and sparkling wine? This iconic dish of the American South, with tart tomatoes and crispy breading, certainly stands on its own. But why not, in the grand tradition of Southern hospitality, invite Blue Mountain Brut to the table? This Okanagan Valley sparkling wine is a blend of two traditional Champagne grapes, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, plus a small (and unique) addition of Pinot Gris.
8 More pairings
February 2014
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