VOL 3 AUGUST 2020
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BENEFITING
TITLE PARTNER
BREAKAWAY PARTNERS
August 2020
Highlights Note A message from the Modern Luxuria team 6 Profile Jas Ogar – creative brain behind PLÜMKIDS LABEL 10 Lifestyle Hiking is the activity during summer 2020 – Track N’ Trail has all the gear you need 36 Auto The power of BMW M8 – conversation with Jan Parks 38 Art Virtual bidding becomes the new norm for Lando Gallery 52 Cuisine Family style dining with delicious Mediterranean dishes – Sofra Turskish Restaurant & Wine Cellar 58 Spirits From American badlands to Alberta midlands – Hansen Distillery’s story of making moonshine 62 Design A look into the owner of Inspired Home Interiors’ own dream home 70
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www.modernluxuria.com
‘‘
Luxury is a state of mind — L’Wren Scott
’’
With the pandemic’s heavy impact on the economy, we’re working hard to find luxuries that you may find interesting to explore and experience, while many businesses in our community are changing their models, adapting, producing new, and getting rid of old. We are delighted to bring you the third volume of Modern Luxuria. If you’re anything like the women behind Modern Luxuria, you’ve been spending more time cooking and spending a small fortune on groceries. It seems like cooking is trending these days, as food was listed #1 topic on Trend Hunter, mostly due to the fact we’re all spending more time at home, and people are experimenting with new ingredients, spices, and creations. It’s a creative outlet for many. However, the treat of going out for a nice meal and a glass of wine continues to be a small luxury for us, and we hope you’re doing the same. When it happens, it’s always taking place at a great locally owned restaurant where we can be confident that we’ll get a great quality meal, and that we’re supporting the local economy. That’s why we’re so happy to connect with Yuksel and Chandra who run Sofra Turkish Restaurant and Wine Cellar, one of our favourite places in the city. For a real treat, we recommend the Sultan’s Sofrasi platter for a real Mediterranean food luxury. We’re delighted to bring you more great conversations in this issue; from chatting with Jas Ogar, creative brain behind PLÜMKIDS LABEL featured in British Vogue, to talking to Edmonton BMW’s leader Jan Parks, to discussing spirits and moonshine with Hansen Distillery. While the global pandemic continues to change everything, we will continue to look for luxuries, small or large, to share with you. We’ll bring you stories about local businesses, startups, personalities, and everything else that shapes our community. Over to you now! Feel free to share the luxuries you find, and want us to talk about at hello@modernluxuria.com.
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Left to Right: Olympia Trencevski, M
August 2020
PHOTOGRAPHY BY TATYANA SEMENOVA
Marlenie Arana, Tracy Sestito, Serap Ozturk, Terri Belley, Elsa Amorim
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www.modernluxuria.com
PUBLISHED BY MODERN LUXURIA LTD.
FOUNDER Elsa Amorim
CONTRIBUTORS Dylan Bastable Jelena Bojic Christina Kim Nicole Modde Amber Prepchuk Tatyana Semenova
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Terri Belley ASSOCIATE EDITOR Erin Slobodian MANAGING EDITOR Karen Meurer BRAND AMBASSADORS Marlenie Arana Serap Ozturk Tracy Sestito
Cover Photographed by Tatyana Semenova
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August 2020
DYLAN BASTABLE Dylan Bastable is a
JELENA BOJIC
storyteller at heart.
Jelena Bojic is a Director
He sees life through a
CHRISTINA KIM
of Community Relations
lense of imagination
Christina Kim is an
at Concordia University
and positivity. A
adventurous wedding
of Edmonton and a
Video Journalist and
and elopement
proud Edmontonian for
photographer, he
photographer based
over 20 years. Dedicated
loves to find the story
out of Edmonton. She
to philanthropy at CUE
in everything. Dylan
also photographs travel,
where students‘ success
produces documentary
lifestyle, food and works
is her first priority, she
style videos to
with brands to tell their
is passionate about
help promote local
stories in a fun and
work in the non-profit
businesses.
NICOLE MODDE
creative way. She works
sector, and surrounds
Nicole Modde is the
with clients looking to
herself with a strong
girl behind the camera
capture the raw and
network of leaders
of NC Photography.
real moments and tell
that keep healthy and
She describes her
emotive stories through
educated communities
photography style as
her style of photography.
at the forefront. She is
light and airy. She loves
When she’s not taking
also a small business
to look for the moments
photos, you can find her
advocate and continues
in between breaths and
constantly adventuring to
to support her husband’s
the laughs that nobody
the beautiful mountains
business in rural Alberta.
really thought much of
and oceans of the world
This equally important
— the tears streaming
or jet setting to different
drive of showcasing
down cheeks or that
countries, currently sitting
the creative small
soft look at one another.
at 41 visited countries
business fabric of our
She captures weddings,
to date. If you’re looking
city led Jelena to be a
families, newborns, and
for any adventure or
contributor and have the
everything in between.
wedding inspiration, you
privilege of interviewing
Modde thinks she has
can check out her work
Edmonton’s community
the best job ever —
over on Instagram @
of small business owners.
memory maker!
wildlyadventurous_photo
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August 2020
What Does Luxuria Mean to Jas Ogar WORDS BY JELENA BOJIC PHOTOGRAPHY BY TATYANA SEMENOVA
Creating a beautiful children’s clothing line, featured in British Vogue, and listed as one of the favourite kids brands of many celebrities, Jas Ogar tells us all about her life in Canada, inspiration behind the brand, and her top luxuries. It’s Friday evening and I am meeting with Ogar in her beautiful home in St Albert. Her energy shows the moment she opens the door. From her warm smile, you know you’re in the presence of hospitality and kindness. Ogar is the creative director and owner of PLÜMKIDS LABEL, and a piano teacher by training. She’s also a wonderful conversationalist. Tell us a bit about yourself. Where are you from,
Do you ever stay connected with your
and when did you move to Canada?
little clients?
I moved to Edmonton in 1996 with my husband
Yes, with many of them! I developed friendships
Goran; we were married then, and came to Canada
and connected with so many people, and
to study, and chose Edmonton to be our place. We
absolutely love that part of my work where I
are from Serbia, a city called Novi Sad, one of the
connect with people that I never thought I would;
most beautiful places you can find in Serbia.
young moms, grandmas, dads, even celebrities that believe in the brand. It’s a fabulous creative
You have a beautiful kids clothing brand,
outlet for me.
PLÜMKIDS. Tell us more about how you started that, and what was the inspiration behind it?
And there is a charitable component to
I wanted to create something unique for my child,
your brand?
as I was looking at other brands, I was hoping to
I always had a heart for children in need, whether
find something different, something that stands
it’s financial or medical need. Being an immigrant,
out from what I saw in the stores…so the motivation
and having our two boys here who needed medical
was that we were expecting, in our early forties,
treatments with their autoimmune conditions, we
but unfortunately that did not pan out. Out of that
spent many days and nights at Stollery. I will never
love and out of that loss, the brand PLÜMKIDS was
forget that feeling of being safe and taken care
born. Something unique as a tribute to the loss we
of, while not having any family here, still knowing
experienced, but used as a creative force to make
there is someone who was taking care of us. My
something beautiful. It is the most fulfilling feeling;
kids were taken care of. So I made sure we’re giving
seeing something you dream up and create in such
back, and I believe every business, big or small,
a tangible way, on babies, or parents using the Tiny
needs to do that. Children are my mission, they’re
Human shirts for the baby announcement or a
my passion, and that’s where I feel like I need to
keepsake as their child is growing up.
give back and will always do that. ▶
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www.modernluxuria.com
The biggest challenge about running a business?
Best advice you’ve ever been given?
Tendency to compare, looking elsewhere for
Three L’s. Live, Love, and Let go.
inspiration and what other people/brands are doing. To draw creative juices out of yourself, which in my
One of the funniest people you ever met?
opinion is where any fashion designer should be
My husband. Our whole relationship is based on
drawing from. I find inspiration in music, nature,
us making each other laugh, and that’s what holds
and architecture. I make a conscious decision to not
us together.
follow trends. Creativity is within all of us, we just How would you describe your personal style?
have to look.
My personal style is elegant, timeless, simple, and How do you spend your time off?
classic. I incorporate that style with a casual look
We love walks - a great way to decompress and
or a night out, and I always look for timeless and
reflect. Our favourite is a path called Red Willow,
modest pieces. I like to wear things that suit me and
it’s about a 10 km path, so we are there regularly. I
are aligned with who I am. No fuss and frill, no high
also love to read, I love to dream up new collections.
maintenance. Just like my brand.
Dinners with friends is another favourite pastime. What brings you joy What do you like most about living in Edmonton?
My family, work, travel, good music, creating and
Generally, the sense of opportunity. For us, coming
designing, and…a clean house. That’s joy!
from a different country, that was such a great thing to see — there is always an opportunity if you’re
One person you’d love to have dinner with?
willing to take it, and I love that about Canada. I have
I always come back to my family, I love having
a very high appreciation for what was given to us to
dinners with my kids and Goran. But one person,
succeed, especially with my business. If you’re willing
aside from family that would be very special, is Coco
to put in the work, and are passionate about it, you
Chanel. I’d love to have a conversation and talk about
have so many opportunities here.
her brand!
Tell us about your love of music? What is your
Top 3 luxury items?
favourite composition?
1. Aromatherapy candles — my favourite gift to give
I was three years old when my dad bought me a
and receive.
piano. It was a special gift that my sister and I loved,
2. Landscaping and house cleaning service — a part
and he encouraged us to play as he came from a
of that whole letting go, and letting others do that so
musical family. I’ve studied music for many years,
I can do things that I really enjoy.
and piano was my choice of instrument. My favourite
3. Travel — it’s always been our way of learning,
piano piece is Chopin’s Piano Concerto No. 1 in E
seeing and experiencing cultures, being open
minor, Op. 11: II Romance. You can hear it in the
minded and always learning new things.
Truman Show.
www.plumkids.ca
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August 2020
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www.modernluxuria.com
Power Couple Vibes Five companies, a toddler, and a baby bump! This dynamic Edmonton couple isn’t slowing down WORDS BY ERIN SLOBODIAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY TATYANA SEMENOVA HAIR AND MAKEP BY AMBER PREPCHUK
Justin: HUF Disorder Woven Button-Up, Obey Relaxed Twill Short, Vans Old Skool Stevie: top- chaser, pants- lil rascalz shop, shoes- Vans, Kyla: dress- Gentle Fawn, Hat- Brixton
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August 2020
There is one word that sums up the vibe of Kyla Kazeil and Justin Der and that word is ‘chill’. Kazeil and Der have been together for more than two decades and they have one super cute toddler named Stevie. This entrepreneurial Edmonton family is involved in the running of five businesses and now they’re expecting a second child in December. Kazeil and Der combine a love of fashion, music, food, and Edmonton and have created some of the city’s most well-known businesses: The Common, Grandin Fish N’ Chips, two locations of the Bamboo Ballroom, and Foosh. We caught up with Kazeil and Der to learn a bit more about their lives. How did you two meet?
and our businesses with the times and are proud of
We met at a rave in the 90s through a mutual
the corporate culture and community of friends and
friend. Justin was living in Calgary at the time.
family that we are a part of.
Tell us about your family.
What do you most value in a friend?
We welcomed our daughter, Stevie into our lives in
Reliability hands down, and humour.
2018 after being in a relationship for over 20 years. Stevie is expecting a little brother in December! We
What brings you joy?
are about to get a whole lot busier, if that’s possible.
Time with family and friends. Justin is an avid motorcycle rider and we love just hanging out,
How do you find balance in your family life while
traveling and socializing. Over the last several years
running 5 businesses?
we began to partner with our employees. Seeing
Teamwork. Both with one another and with our
the growth and unlimited potential that comes with
amazing network of partners, managers, and
opening space for others is an amazing feeling.
employee team, plus our families. Having a defined schedule but also not being afraid to deviate from
What does Luxuria mean to you?
it. Relying on each other especially in the world of
Justin: Luxuria for me is about finding the rare.
COVID and remembering not to take ourselves too
Limited releases especially sneakers and streetwear.
seriously. Tomorrow is a new day, as long as everyone
I’ve been collecting sneakers since the 90s. There’s
is safe, we are good.
something pretty rad about having a Nike that’s so limited that there’s only 1000 pairs in circulation. Over
What do you consider to be your greatest
the years I’ve sold a lot of my collection but there
achievements?
are some that I will definitely keep forever. That and
As a couple, our greatest achievement has been
setting my own schedule, I really value that.
maintaining a relationship for over 20 years and a
Kyla: Luxuria for me has changed over the years. It
business partnership. Haha! It’s not always easy but
used to mean designer bags and vacations. I think
it’s definitely worth it. As entrepreneurs our greatest
now for me it’s the luxury of time well spent. The
achievement is sustainability. Foosh [has been in
ability to define my own career and dictate my own
business for] 21 years, Bamboo Ballroom for 15 years,
days. To surround myself with likeminded people and
and the Common for 11 years. We are proud of our
create spaces that foster growth. www.foosh.ca
fluidity and ability to adapt and reinvent ourselves
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Stussy Ombre Stripe Crew, Stussy Panel Easy Pant, Converse x Pop Trading Company Jack Purcell Pro Hi, Brixton Hardy Bucket Hat
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August 2020
Polar Skate Co. East Dream Button-Up Shirt, Levi’s 501 ’93 Straight Denim, Converse x Pop Trading Company Jack Purcell Pro Low
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www.modernluxuria.com
Foosh The Rise Tee, Brixton Steady Short, Vans Sid DX, Nike H86 Futura Cap
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August 2020
Butter Goods Schmidt Zip Polo, Levi’s 501 ’93 Straight Denim, Converse x Pop Trading Company Jack Purcell Pro Low
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www.modernluxuria.com
Top: Gentle Fawn, Blazer: Minimum Fashion, Shorts: Mink Pink, Earrings: Kiko
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August 2020
Jumpsuit: One Teaspoon, Necklace: Aurora Lux, Hat: Brixton, Shoes: Vans from Foosh
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www.modernluxuria.com
Jumpsuit: Mink Pink, Bag: Matt & Nat, Hair Clips- Ernest & Kelly, Shoes : Nike from Foosh
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August 2020
Top: Mink Pink, Pants: Gentle Fawn, Bag: Rylea Coyote Vintage, Necklace: Aurora Lux, Bracelet: Ernest & Kelly
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www.modernluxuria.com
Plains Cree Silversmith and Jeweller Erik Lee Creating beautiful silver jewellery infused with Cree Culture WORDS BY KAREN MEURER
When you look at Erik Lee’s jewellery, his passion to create is obvious in every piece. The beautiful silver bracelets and earrings are embellished with Plains Cree symbols, incorporating his culture with every curve. We spoke with Lee to find out what makes him tick and how his inspirations turn into beautiful, wearable art pieces.
Tell us a little bit about you. What got you
comes from. I'm influenced by ancient designs
started in making silver jewellery?
as well as pop culture, sci-fi, architecture,
I transitioned from other mediums in about
nature, high fashion and so on. As for process,
2007. I was carving wood on Vancouver Island
that can vary. One thing that is important
and spending a lot of time in a studio with
is music, I like music in the studio. When it
friends from the west coast indigenous art
comes to design, sometimes I begin with a
traditions. One of whom was engraving silver
sketch on paper, sometimes I start by just
and copper. I asked if he would show me
cutting silver with no plan. It really depends, at
some of the ropes, he did, and I became a little
times, the design will come out spontaneously
obsessed from there. I did a lot of studying
and very organically and other times I will
and reading as much as I could about working
work the composition over and over, drawing
with metal and about jewellery making
and correcting and reworking for an extended
techniques. I did short mentorships with
period of time until I feel the flow is as precise
master silversmiths from the Navajo, Pueblo,
as it can be. Ultimately , the metal will dictate
Mandan, and Kwakuitl tribes. That and a lot of
the possibilities of what you can do with it but
trial and error and expensive mistakes brings
the trick is to be able to push the boundaries
me to where I am today with my art practice.
of what is technically and artistically possible.
What is your inspiration when creating?
What does "luxuria" mean to you?
What is your process?
Luxuria means the finer things, the things
I draw inspiration from the visual design
we deserve to surround ourselves with.
sensibilities of my Plains Cree heritage. I draw
“Making jewellery and having the ability to
inspiration from many places and I love to
create work I believe in is what makes me the
innovate and bring the artform to new places.
happiest and most fulfilled; that’s what keeps
I try not to limit the places that my inspiration
me at it.” — Erik Lee
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August 2020
Pendant
Repeating Zag Cuff
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www.modernluxuria.com
Chevron Cuff
Sawtooth Bracelet
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August 2020
Pendant
Cuff
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PHOTOS SUPPLIED
www.modernluxuria.com
From Oil & Gas to Leather & Love How one Edmonton man seized opportunity during an economic downturn WORDS BY ERIN SLOBODIAN
A small team of people - along with the company of
out of the shop in Old Strathcona is obvious when
a shop dog named Storm, are taking raw vegetable-
you see the pictures and videos of the handcrafted
tanned leather and turning it into high quality,
products on the shop’s website and Instagram
hand-crafted items. Clo’s General Leather Co. has
account. “We love working with natural cowhide
been around since 2014. That’s when the oil and gas
leather as it takes on character and ages differently
industry started to slow down, giving the owner,
depending on the customer's use,” said Closen. Clo’s
Kyle Closen, the kickstart and opportunity to pursue
General Leather Co. is excited to show our readers
his dream, “I’ve always been passionate about
their Travel Kit, which includes the Weekend Warrior
working with my hands and creating something
Duffle Bag, the Urban Adventure Backpack, and the
from nothing.” That passion is inherent, it would
Family Passport Cover. The bags are lined with 18
seem. Closen’s grandparents owned an upholstery
ounce water resistant canvas, YKK zippers, and solid
business in Saskatchewan, which could be said was
brass hardware. The passport cover is perfect to keep
where Closen got his talent for creation and his mind
all your passports and travel documents safe and
for business, “before heading to the farm after school
secure. The Clo’s General Co. team makes wallets,
I would head to the shop to earn my allowance
belts, gloves, and other accessories and items. Storm,
by sweeping floors and helping the family,” he
the shop dog is there to add a little extra fluff and
explained. Now Closen works with his fiancé, Dayna
cuteness for the team and their customers to love.
and designer Jess. The quality of the items coming
www.closgeneral.com - 28 -
August 2020
Weekend Warrior Duffle Bag
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Family Passport Cover
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August 2020
Urban Adventure Backpack
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www.modernluxuria.com
Luxurious Looking Jewellery an Everyday Treat Beautiful local jewellery line that you can wear anywhere WORDS BY KAREN MEURER PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTINA KIM STYLING BY ONE PALM STYLING
When Kristen Mackie was on her second
collections. She works to create pieces
maternity leave from teaching, she started
for everyone that can be worn with every
making jewellery at her kitchen table. This
look — classic pieces that you can wear
hobby of making one of a kind bracelets
over and over again dressed up or casual.
and necklaces soon grew into a full on
The designs are guided by trends like rose
business and eLiasz and eLLa jewelry
gold and rose quartz — both very popular
was born.
right now — and inspiration from places Mackie has travelled like the colours and
Mackie has always been interested in
vibrant architecture in Europe.
working with natural gemstones. When starting the business in 2013, she joined
It’s now a full time labour of love for
the farmers market community to sell
both Mackie and her husband — she
her jewellery. Soon the popularity of the
is the creative side and he is the
jewellery line grew to an online store and
business side. It’s been a great journey.
in about 120 different boutiques across
She doesn’t miss the office life. Following
Canada — the largest of which being
her passion has paid off. “I wouldn’t trade
Simons. Now Mackie has manufacturers
it for all the amazing people we’ve been
to handle the large quantity but she is
able to meet through our business.”
still very involved in the designs of the
www.eliaszandella.com
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August 2020
Necklace: (left to right) “Atmosphere” necklace “Little Heart” necklace “Truffle” Necklace Bracelets: Left to right “Almond” stone bangin’ bracelet “Brisk” mini stone bangin’ bracelet Earrings: “Lumiere” double-hoop earrings
Necklace: “Festival” gold chain necklace Bracelets: “Pecan” mini stone bangin’ bracelet Earrings: “Gold Classic” hoop earrings Ring: “Signet”
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www.modernluxuria.com
Bracelets: (left to right) “Lunar” mini stone bangin’ bracelet “Enlightening” double-strand bangin’ bracelet “Crackle” stone bangin’ bracelet Ring: (Left to right) “Heirloom” ring in crystal quartz “Tresor”
Bracelet: “Gold Stone” stone bangin’ bracelet Earrings: “Golden Loop” hoop earrings
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August 2020
Bracelets: top to bottom Fireside” stone bangin’ bracelet “Almond” stone bangin’ bracelet “Nightshine” stone bangin’ bracelet “Moonlit” stone bangin’ bracelet
Large Necklace “Raindrop” Rose Quartz Necklace in rose gold. Small Necklace “Sweet Drop” Necklace in Rose Quartz Rings: Top to Bottom “XO” Rose Gold ring. “Heirloom” Rose Quartz ring in Rose Gold. “Maiden” Rose Gold ring. Bracelets: “Sunshine” double strand Rose Gold plated hematite stone. “Ice Rose Quartz” stone bangin’ bracelet.
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www.modernluxuria.com
Hiking is trending! Products you Need for your Trek Travel restrictions send Edmontonians to the trails. We talk to Track N’ Trail about favourite picks of gear WORDS BY ERIN SLOBODIAN
It sure seems to be that more people
by an increase in sales of outdoor
are spending more time outdoors
adventure specialty clothing,
this summer. There seem to be a
footwear, and equipment at one
higher number of joggers, cyclists
local business. “We do footwear
and people heading out for a hike
and clothing for trail running
than would normally be seen in
and that’s just gone through the
Edmonton on a typical sunny day.
roof,” said Bob Schilf, owner of
Summer 2020 is not typical though
Track N’ Trail, who is also seeing
and with current travel restrictions
more people than usual in the
keeping more people home, it seems
market for hiking gear. Track N’
those people are spending more
Trail shared with Modern Luxuria
time and more money on outdoor
Magazine some pieces that they
activities. The visible evidence of a
think every hiker should own.
more active population is backed
www.shop.trackntrail.ca
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August 2020
Hiking Boots The right pair of hiking boots will be flexible, comfortable and fit snuggly — not tight. The Banks GTX boots fit the bill and are Hanwag’s best-selling boots worldwide. Backpacks Things to look for in a mountaineering backpack include comfort, support and waterproofing. The Bergtagen 38 M/L is completely adaptable so you can use it for long approaches and for light summit treks. It’s made from award-winning Bergshell fabric. Hiking Poles Hiking poles are used to add balance when carrying a heavy backpack, to assist in keeping you upright when crossing streams or heading down a steep hill, and they help to relieve pressure from the knees of users. The Legacy Lite COR-TEC features ultralite, high-tensile strength aluminum shafts, it has an anti-shock feature that reduces impact by as much as 40% to protect muscles, joints, and ligaments.
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www.modernluxuria.com
Jan Parks: Edmonton BMW’s Leader G The dealership’s General Manager talks about his life, his home, and the 2020 BMW M8
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August 2020
PHOTOS SUPPLIED
WORDS BY ERIN SLOBODIAN
Gets Personal - 39 -
www.modernluxuria.com
Jan Parks is a tall drink of water. Seriously, he’s really tall measuring 6’7” to be exact! The General Manager of Edmonton BMW is a family man with a beautiful wife named Laura and two children, a little boy named Weston and a small girl named Ruby. Jan Parks has been in the automotive industry for 14 years. The 40 yearold started in vehicle sales and quickly moved into management and then general management roles. He’s a man who is focused on bringing happiness to his family, his employees, his employers, and his customers. We sat down with Parks in the airy Edmonton BMW dealership to get to know a little bit more about the man who reaches the top cupboard every single time. - 40 -
August 2020
What would you say is the #1 thing that makes
Where do you shop for your clothing?
you successful?
Believe it or not, I’m a bit of a deal hunter. I custom
My work ethic and compassion is a good way to
order all my shirts but the majority stuff is from Hugo
describe it. You know, wanting to prove myself.
Boss. My wife shops online for me and she finds me a
Wanting to make family, parents, employers, and
lot of great deals.
people I work with comfortable and happy. I try to be the first one in the office to set an example and
What have you done recently for the first time?
I try to instill that into my kids. You know the idea
I would have to say golfing all the golf courses
that you’ve got to work for it. It’s not going to be
around the Shuswap in BC in July. I’ve never done
given to you.
that! I hadn’t swung the golf clubs yet this year and I didn’t play a lot last year so it was challenging to
What is something that most people would be
say the least. We woke up early one morning and
surprised to learn about you?
threw all our clubs in a boat and hopped in. We went
A lot of people don’t know that I was recruited to
an hour and a half up the strait and docked right
eight different colleges for basketball when I was
at the golf course and played Hyde Mountain. I’ve
younger. That was my passion in high school. Most
never done anything like that before: show up to a
people wouldn’t guess that I spent 10 years working
golf course by boat! It’s not too often that you get to
in the oilfield either. I don’t have any crazy secrets.
experience something like that.
What brings you joy?
What do you like best about the 2020 BMW M8
Seeing my kids being happy. Go home to see my
featured in this Modern Luxuria edition?
family and the kids come running up for a hug,
The drive. The feel. The power! It’s an unbelievable
you forget all the trials and the tribulations and the
car. It’s a driver’s car. When you get it out on the open
stressors of life. We’re blessed to have a pretty good
road, it’s very hard to keep yourself from getting it up
life but it’s something we talk about all the time. As
to full speed after every single red light. It’s powerful!
long as our kids are happy and taken care of we are
As soon as you open the door, the M8 logo lights up
happy. There’s not a lot else you can compare to that.
in the seat and as soon as you sit down in the seat.
Living or dead, famous or not, who would you like
What does Luxuria mean to you?
to spend an hour with?
It’s got to be client service. Luxuria for me is
I need an hour with my grandfather. He died of
understanding the way the client perceives luxuria
cancer. He and I were close. That’s where I got my
when they walk in the door. I want to make sure we
height from. No one else in my family is tall except for
give that to them to a standard that leaves them
him and everyone says I look just like him. Growing
surprised. One small little thing can completely
up, I’d always go spend a lot of time at their house,
change the way a client experiences Edmonton
we’d do a lot of ice fishing. He was always building
BMW and we want to understand that. It looks like
something. I’d have to say I’d love an hour with him.
honesty, transparency, and authenticity. ▶ - 41 -
www.modernluxuria.com
“The drive. The feel. The power! It’s an unbelievable car. It’s a driver’s car.” - Jan P The 2020 BMW M8 is a muscular and powerful sixfigure beauty that is available as a coupe, convertible and Gran Coupe. The M8 is an automobile that Car and Driver calls a “bully among boulevard cruisers.” The M8 is powered by a twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V-8. That makes 600 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. The Competition model has a 625 horsepower engine! The M8 was engineered to dazzle with a quieter than expected experience when driving the fastest BMW ever made. The German manufacturer also made the M8 to be a less aggressive — and more luxurious version of a muscle car so the get up and go is silky smooth. When asked to tell Modern Luxuria readers about his favourite feature about the 2020 BMW M8, Edmonton BMW General Manager, Jan Parks said it is, “The drive. The feel. The power! It’s an unbelievable car. It’s a driver’s car.” The interior of the M8 has roomy leather seats with beautiful stitching. Every M8 comes standard with lux features like heated and ventilated front seats, a Nappa leather-covered dashboard, customizable ambient lighting, wireless charging, Wi-Fi hotspot capability and 16-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. One last note of potential interest: the boot of the 2020 BMW M8 Convertible easily fits a set of golf clubs. www.edmontonbmw.com
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August 2020
Parks, General Manager Edmonton BMW
2020 BMW M8
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www.modernluxuria.com
An RV of Glamping Proportions Glamorous camping means finding the perfect RV WORDS AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIN SLOBODIAN
Sunny weather, the open road, and a luxury RV is a winning recipe for a fantastic late-summer vacation. The NeXus RV Ghost Super C luxury motorhome has plenty of state of the art features that will immediately turn any camping trip into a glamorous occasion. All you need to do is park, start a fire, open a bottle of the finest bubbly, and let yourself unwind! The Ghost’s interior has leather seats, solid surface countertops, hardwood cabinetry, and stainless steel appliances. The king size bedroom comes complete with plenty of storage, it’s own television, a lux shower with a skylight, and a small washroom with a large medicine cabinet and porcelain toilet. The kitchen features an apartment-sized three door fridge, three burner stovetop, microwave, and 40 inch television. This luxury motorhome sleeps six people comfortably. The NeXus RV Ghost Super C motorhome is powerful with a Cummins engine built on an International DuraStar chassis. Take a tour of the NeXus RV Ghost Super C luxury motorhome at Vision RV which is located five minutes west of Edmonton just off Highway 16. www.visionrv.com
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www.modernluxuria.com
Pure Sexiness on Two Wheels X3 Ducati and Argyll Motorsports bring us three 2020 year models that make us want to ride Style. Sophistication. Performance. Trust. These are the pillars of Ducati, the manufacturer of the world’s most attractive motorcycles. Ducati has a deep commitment to racing competitions and represents the Italian industry with style and seductiveness. We’re excited to feature three of the latest models and show you the beauty, elegance, and sportiness that is available in over 60 nations around the world.
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August 2020
WORDS BY ERIN SLOBODIAN
PHOTOS SUPPLIED
3
The Monster 1200 S combines sportiness with elegance and matte with gloss. The exclusive S version further accentuates the sporting spirit of the Monster, thanks to the fully adjustable Öhlins suspension, racing braking system, 3-spoke Y rims with exclusive “S” graphics and carbon front mudguard. Available in brand new Liquid Concrete Grey, a polished pastel grey with black frame and rims, sporty and elegant, as well as in classic Ducati Red with black rims. - 47 -
www.modernluxuria.com
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August 2020
Ducati’s new Panigale V4-R is the maximum expression of Ducati’s racing DNA and bonus — it’s legal on the road! Designed to increase stability and turn-in speed, the 2020 Panigale V4-R makes taking tight corners a breeze, gives riders increased control, and sends confidence into overdrive. - 49 -
www.modernluxuria.com
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August 2020
The new Streetfighter V4-S is a bike that magnifies the thrill of the ride. It features “cutting-edge technology and awe-inspiring design that oozes performance.� The 2020 Panigale Streetfighter V4-S is more minimalistic and has wider handlebars than its race-model brother, the V4-R. The Streetfighter has a 208hp engine and looks as tough as it feels. www.argyllmotorsports.com - 51 -
www.modernluxuria.com
Brent Luebke and Marie Olah
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August 2020
Going, Going, GONE! Gallery District auction house sets price records with virtual bidding WORDS BY ERIN SLOBODIAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY TATYANA SEMENOVA
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www.modernluxuria.com
Biotherm by Frank O’Hara, with an essay and glossary by Bill Berkson and 42 lithographic prints by Jim Dine.
It would appear that online art auctions are a thing of the future and one Edmonton couple is setting price records with their internet auction sales. In their off time, Brent Luebke and Marie Olah are a happily married couple. During business hours, they are equal business partners who operate Lando Gallery on 124th Street in Edmonton’s Gallery District.
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August 2020
Jason Carter 20th Century Ten Peaks acrylic on canvas 30 x 40 in. 2013
Lando Gallery represents works created by local artists and artists from all over the world. It is also the place where art and jewellery (among other items) have been bidded on by buyers waving paddles as they signal waged wars for coveted items. Lando Gallery has hosted Lando Auctions and its crowds of art lovers in the past but with the world pandemic and new social distancing rules came some changes that had to be made in order to comply with government restrictions. Earlier this year Lando Auctions went completely online but that change did not mean less heated bidding. Actually, quite the opposite happened. â–ś
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www.modernluxuria.com
Allen Sapp RCA OC (1928 - 2015) Untitled (Sitting by the Fire) acrylic on canvas 14 x 11 in. ca. 2000
Marie Olah is the auctioneer for Lando Auctions. She explained that people are becoming more and more comfortable with purchasing art over the internet, “we’ve seen a huge increase in our online presence since May.” They’ve also seen a huge increase in prices paid for consignment items. “We set record prices in our most recent auction that was strictly online,” said Luebke. Lando Auction’s most recent sale in May 2020 saw bidders drive up the prices to double the estimated prices on many consignment items.
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August 2020
Johnny Papigatok b. 1923 Sugluk E9-1111 3 Faces soapstone 8 x 10.5 x 8.5 in. 1982
While the bidding takes place completely over the internet, Lando Auctions has its auction items on display at Lando Gallery for interested buyers to see before the actual online auction dates. www.landogallery.com
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www.modernluxuria.com
Authentic Turkish Cuisine at its Best Local Chef serves up delicious Turkish meals in a warm, homey atmosphere WORDS BY KAREN MEURER PHOTOGRAPHY BY TATYANA SEMENOVA
It’s obvious Chef Yuksel Gultekin loves to cook. He can whip up a beautifully laid out classic Turkish sharing platter in fifteen minutes flat, then bring it out to you with a smile. Glutekin’s path to co-owning Sofra Turkish Restaurant & Wine Cellar with wife Chandra is a fun one. Once a professional soccer player in Turkey, he needed to rethink his career when his knees were permanently injured. He soon picked up jobs in restaurants, learning the nuances of the cuisine. Next he spent five years working in kitchen’s on cruise ships but with working 10 months straight of the year he found it hard to have a life outside of work. Glutekin reminisced, “Staff told me one day, if you’re still working here in five years you’ll be here for life.” He quit a few days shy of his five year anniversary and came to Canada.
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August 2020
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www.modernluxuria.com
While working in high end restaurants in Edmonton, Gultekin met his wife. They went back to Turkey for a year, then came back to Edmonton. That is when they started Sofra. Now you can find Gultekin happily cooking every evening in the open kitchen concept restaurant. His passion comes out while preparing everything from turkish meatballs to fresh pita bread. Everything on the menu is made from local ingredients and classic Turkish spices.
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August 2020
Dining at Sofra is like having a family dinner at home — and that’s how Gultekin likes it. He wants everyone to enjoy the experience, savour good food, and feel right at home. Sofra Turkish Restaurant & Wine Cellar is located in downtown Edmonton on 106 street, just across from MacEwan University.
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www.modernluxuria.com
Edmonton Alberta Moonshiners Going Strong Who knew we have an awesome family-run craft distillery right in our own backyard When Shayna Hansen brought in now husband Kris Sustrik to the family fold, she took him to meet Grandma — in the family moonshine shed. By the end of the visit Sustrik was passed out on the floor. Beguiled by Hansen and surviving his first taste of moonshine, it wasn’t long before the two formed Hansen Distillery. Hansen’s family has been making moonshine for four generations now. Starting in the American badlands then moving to the Alberta midlands, the art of making moonshine in the family was passed on from great grandparents to grandparents to parents to children. Hansen has fond memories of her time growing up with Grandma in the moonshine shed and considers her unique family “hobby” a blessing. ▶
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August 2020
WORDS BY KAREN MEURER
PHOTO SUPPLIED
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PHOTO SUPPLIED
www.modernluxuria.com
Before opening the distillery, Hansen and Sustrik owned another business. But the couple were always taking vacations to tour other distilleries to see how they did it. After one holiday the two came back and thought “we can do this — why don’t we do it”. Hansen says when they told Grandma they were going to open a distillery she said “Are you crazy?!” But soon she came around and taught them all about the process of making moonshine. Grandma is now their most staunch supporter and whiskey taster — nothing gets by Grandma!
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PHOTO BY DYLAN BASTABLE
August 2020
Kris Sustrik and Shayna Hansen
Hansen Distillery is proud to support local suppliers to get the ingredients to make their famous moonshine and whiskey. The distillery normally offers tours of production and tastings on site, but in these COVID times they have had to suspend tours and have reduced hours for tastings in the bar. For now the best way to discover Hansen moonshine is by going online at www.hansendistillery.com
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www.modernluxuria.com
Bring On The Cake! One Chef masterfully creates cakes and pastries almost too beautiful to eat WORDS BY KAREN MEURER PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICOLE MODDE FLOWERS BY FABLOOMOSITY
Walking into The Art of Cake Café
the corporate cooking world — she
& Bakery you can’t help but notice
wanted to create beautiful, unique,
the amazingly beautiful cakes
and delicious goods that everyone
and pastries in the display case.
gets excited about and come back
These custom made delectables
for more. She decided it was time
are the genius artistry of Chef
to open her own shop.
Gloria Bednarz. Bednarz bakes for weddings, events, It seems almost criminal to sit
and individuals alike. The Café
down and relax in the café’s stylish
is family run, including her Chef
and vintage decor to bite into such
husband in the kitchen and son at
perfectly made pastry — but then
the front counter. There are brunch
the flavour explosion in your mouth
and lunch menus to go with an
makes you glad you did.
assortment of delicious coffee and teas served in delicate china cups.
Earlier in her career, Bednarz worked
Normally on Sundays they have a
as a Pastry Chef Manager in high
Traditional English High Tea which
end hotel kitchens. An artist at heart,
includes a three-tiered tea tray filled
Bednarz longed for more than just
with finger sandwiches, sweets, and
producing the popular cookie cutter
pastries, but for now, during COVID
cakes and pastries seen in many
times customers can enjoy High Tea
dessert trays. She wasn’t happy in
Take Away.
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August 2020
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www.modernluxuria.com
Between your choice of cakes, cookies, pastries, pies, cinnamon buns, and more there’s something delicious for everyone. www.theartofcake.ca
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August 2020
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www.modernluxuria.com
Bringing a Hemingway Masterpiece of Design Back to Life St. Albert Interior Designer revives her dream home WORDS BY KAREN MEURER PHOTOGRAPHY BY TATYANA SEMENOVA
Originally Alana Gannon Schilf of Inspired Home Interiors was a nurse, working at Edmonton's U of A Hospital. She had an interest in interior design so by day she would nurse, and by night she attended the Residential Interior Design program. That was over 20 years ago, and since then Schilf has been helping her clients bring their dream homes to life. About 6 years ago Schilf and her husband thought they would build a home in St. Albert where she grew up, but when they started looking she found out that a home originally designed by renowned architect Peter Hemingway was for sale. Schilf jumped at the chance to own this classic home. Built in 1959, the home had fallen into disrepair and needed some reviving. In keeping with its mid century modern feel, Schilf kept the features that gave the home character like the original solid wood front double entry doors, tricolour flagstone foyer floor, and the beautiful open beam ceiling in the main living room. One interesting feature is that the L shaped bungalow does not have a basement. It is believed that this house, one of several he built along the same street, was designed for a member of Hemingway’s family who was in a wheelchair. With only one level, everything is intelligently incorporated into the design of the house. Tucked in behind the original brick hearth fireplace is the furnace and hot water tank “closet” covered by beautiful double doors. Open the doors to what looks like a pantry in the kitchen and you’ll find a hidden away stacked washer and dryer set. Another “cupboard” transforms into the linen closet. Schilf knocked out a wall that separated the kitchen from the family room to open up and brighten the space. She installed quartz countertops in the kitchen and bathrooms. Garden doors lead off the family room to the outdoor patio, creating more living space and another windowed door leads out from the middle of the wall in the living room to an outdoor formal dining area. Beautiful engineered hardwood floors were installed throughout the main living areas leading - 70 -
Original artwork by Canadian Arti Original numbered and framed p Orange table lamps by Robert Ab White lacquer cabinets by Tema H Perez Furniture sectional, Global V gold table lamp purchased throug Vintage end table purchased in P Natuzzi coffee table purchased at
August 2020
ist Patricia Larson print by SoCal artist “Shag” bbey Home Views white leather chairs and gh Inspired Home Interiors Palm Springs t Leather Elite (now Reside Furnishings)
down the hall to the bedrooms. Schilf’s mid-century
would be the green rectangular XO art piece in the
modern contemporary taste in furniture infuses the
living room. Schilf doesn’t regret leaving nursing for
home with a sleek yet comfortable, lived in look. A
interior design. She thinks her caring and intuitive
curved sectional and two armchairs form an inviting
skills transfer over well in helping people to create
conversational area in the living room and the wide seat
their most beautiful living spaces. She loves it. She
couch in the family room makes for cosey TV watching
doesn’t think they’ll build a new home now — Schilf,
while keeping with the aesthetic of the home. The walls
her husband, and their sweet dog Karl are staying put.
are brightened with contemporary art — a favourite
www.inspiredhomes.ca - 71 -
www.modernluxuria.com
Vintage acrylic and glass bar cart purchased at Swish Vintage in Palm Springs Nuevo Furniture gold and marble side table purchased through Inspired Home Interiors
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August 2020
Perez Furniture bed and Global Views white flower mirror purchased through Inspired Home Interiors
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www.modernluxuria.com
Knoll Saarinen Executive Chairs purchased through Inspired Home Interiors Knoll Saarinen marble dining table purchased through Inspired Home Interiors Mooi Random light purchased through Inform in Vancouver VIntage credenza and Sonneman table lamp purchased in Palm Springs
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August 2020
Vintage credenza purchased in Palm Springs at Hedge Vintage vase and glass bowl purchased in Palm Springs Prayer beads from The Cross in Yaletown, Vancouver Photograph: Poolside Gossip by Slim Aarons purchased in Barcelona, Spain Renwil mirror purchased through Inspired Home Interiors
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www.modernluxuria.com
Furniture Duo Create Lasting Beautiful Pieces Two friends form a furniture business out of an innate desire to create WORDS BY KAREN MEURER
Owners of IZM, Shane Pawluk and Jerad
they looked at each other and said “well
Mack have known each other since the mid
you might as well come work with us.” And
90’s. Both were working overseas in Cuba
IZM was born. In the beginning Pawluk and
when Pawluk decided to quit his job — not
Mack worked with retailers to sell products.
wanting to “work for anyone else again.” He
Pawluck describes their original designs
thought “what can I do,” coffee shop (?) bike
back then as “brutalist” with everything
shop (?) or furniture (?) because those are
1½ inches thick and square.
the things he liked. Now IZM designs are a reflection of the Pawluk decided on furniture since his
owners. They like to design from their
cousins had a woodworking shop. “I never
likes and passions — with ideas that
did any woodworking before that. I thought
come organically.
this would be easy, but it wasn’t.” Mack does most of the designing now. Pawluk learned the craft and rules of
He comes up with a shape and works
woodworking from his cousin’s Dad, who
it into a piece of furniture. Their design
passed on old world experience. “You may
style is minimalist, organic shapes, curves,
try to experiment and break the rules, but
architectural — “it’s just a mix”.
you learn quickly you can’t.” People are finding IZM. Not ones to want While still in Cuba Mack started carving for
to promote themselves, they like to let the
something to do. He soon started working
work speak for itself. From referrals and
with a master furniture maker and began
word of mouth, IZM will build on order.
to build furniture. They have done furniture for different Fast forward to both being back in
restaurants, hotels, and individuals. After
Edmonton and building furniture
17 years in business, IZM’s design style has
independent of each other. One day
evolved and matured into building beautiful,
Mack came over to Pawluk’s cousin's
simple, and unique pieces of furniture.
woodworking shop to check it out and
www.izm.ca - 76 -
PHOTOS SUPPLIED
August 2020
ICONOCLAST dining table in walnut
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www.modernluxuria.com
FURCULA dining table
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August 2020
ICONOCLAST dining table in white oak
KINETIC credenza
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www.modernluxuria.com
Exciting New Condominium Community in SW Edmonton Coming Soon Beautiful property features an enclave of twelve luxury bungalow villas waiting to be owned WORDS BY KAREN MEURER
Perched in Larch Park on the ravine
unit is beautiful engineered hardwood
above the breathtaking Mactaggart
and glass railings. In the Master Suite sits
Sanctuary is new condominium living
a luxurious spa-like ensuite with a stand
unlike anything you’ve seen before in
alone soaker tub, in-floor heating, and
South West Edmonton. Named Larch
a large tiled walk-in shower with Kohler
12, this luxury community is a project
body sprays.
by Landmark Homes®, Certified Master Builder. The gated community
The units have a fully finished basement
at 7381 May Common boasts modern
with 2 bedrooms, lifestyle/exercise room,
to transitional designs with most
home theatre, recreation room, and
units situated with the ravine as their
oversized windows with 9 ft ceilings so it
backdrop. With over 1800 square feet of
doesn’t feel like a basement.
living space and floor to ceiling windows, each unit offers a spectacular view.
The community is NET ZERO ready for energy efficiency with elegant
The designs are well thought out for flow
exteriors of acrylic stucco & K2 stone.
of movement in the home. The Chef’s
Anyone who enjoys an active lifestyle
kitchen includes floor to ceiling cabinetry,
and loves to entertain would find these
walk through pantry, LED pot lights, and
condominiums a joy to live in.
a huge waterfall island. Throughout the
www.alangee.com
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August 2020
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www.modernluxuria.com
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PHOTOS SUPPLIED
August 2020
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Loewen crafts luxurious windows and doors that are the statement pieces of custom residential architecture. Looking for one window or a whole house we have a solution.
Loewen Window Centre
4552 - 99 Street Edmonton, AB 780.452.3753
www.rsvpdesign.ca
