Central Island Homes & Living Magazine - Winter 2011 by Homes & Living Magazine (H&L Magazine)

central vancouver island CENTRAL ISLAND’S PREMIER MAGAZINE ABOUT HOMES AND LIVING

WINTER

2011

SHOWCASING THE BEST!

H&L’s

Home

FEATURE Dogwood Mountain Homes — ‘The Murard’

Nanaimo, British Columbia

READ EVERY ISSUE ONLINE! HLMAGAZINE.COM

H&L’s renovation & design directory - find products and services for your home at a glance

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WINTER 2011

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WINTER 2011

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WINTER 2011

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| CENTRAL ISLAND homes & living WINTER 2011

ON THE COVER Feature Home: Dogwood Mountain Homes ‘The Murard’ Nouveau character high above Nanaimo

HOMES Lose the Stress, Find the Sparkle

Home holiday decorating with a twist By Jane Lockhart

Cooking Up Tasty Design

New appliances combine sleek appearance and flexible functionality By Ben Vorst

Feature Home: Dogwood Mountain Homes ‘The Murard’

Nouveau character high above Nanaimo By Jessica Krippendorf

Garden Splendour

Great winterscape gardening begins with good bones By Pat Burkette

Creekside at Corfield in Parksville

Sustainable home ownership with impressive features

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Dreaming of a WHITE CHRISTMAS

Holiday décor that is whimsically white & an unexpected delight By Lana Stokes

H&L’s Renovation & Design Directory Quality retailers, local builders, suppliers & showrooms

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WINTER 2011

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| CENTRAL ISLAND homes & living WINTER 2011

Garden Splendour Great winterscape gardening begins with good bones

LIVING Tony’s Take

Tony Parsons reflects on the holiday season By Tony Parsons

H&L’s Epicure

A modern take on traditional holiday fare By Rebecca Wellman

Victoria Symphony Celebrates 71 Seasons

Vancouver Islanders treated to four holiday concerts

Celebrity Profile: Santa Claus

He always delivers – just in the nick of time By Roberto Bernardi

Resort Escape

Island R&R at Brentwood Bay Resort and Spa By Tracey Drake

H&L’s Auto Showcase

Infiniti G-series sets the standard for performance and comfort

Safe Winter Driving

Getting home safely this holiday is the best gift of all By Ben Vorst

A Modern Wedding

The contemporary side of happily ever after By Tracey Drake

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New Location

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Dental Professionals Give Back

A community broke the CODE to assist those in need By Heather Chisholm

Health and Wellness A plan to combat the holiday belly bulge By Kyle Kolkman

Celebrate in style.

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WINTER 2011

E X T R A O R D I N A RY W I N D O W FA S H I O N S

| PUBLISHER’s message

P Publisher’s Message As I sat enjoying a mug of hot chocolate, patiently but eagerly looking out the front window of our family home on Carnation Street in North Vancouver, I suddenly leaped from my chair shouting I see him! I see him! It’s Santa! There he is! I was 7 years old. My parents keeping my belief in Santa alive ran to the window and shared in my excitement, saying, “Where Robert? Where do you see him?” Right there mum can you see? “Oh yes, I see him!”, my mother whispered. “Oh yes, I see him too and he’s heading our way,” my father said and then urged, “Quickly, son! Let’s get you to bed because Santa won’t come if you’re still awake.” I gulped down the last of my hot chocolate, ran down the hall and jumped right into bed.

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It was early in the morning and probably about 3:00am when I awoke. I laid there, staring up at the ceiling concentrating intently. I wonder if he’s been yet. I wonder what Santa brought for me. Oh, I really hope I got the table top hockey set I so much want, I thought. I knew I was supposed to stay in bed until mom and dad would come and get me, but I just couldn’t lay there a moment longer… especially since I swore I saw Santa and his reindeer soaring through the sky the night before.

I tiptoed down the hall - oh so quietly - so as not to wake my parents. Then, as I turned the corner I could see from the light of the Christmas tree that Santa had been to our house! And there it was - my table top hockey set that I wanted so much! I was so excited that I forgot how early it was and that my parents were asleep and I began to shout He’s been! He’s been! He’s been! My parents got up. They were not upset and shared in my joy. In fact, for many years I always wondered why they seemed just as excited as I was, even though they didn’t get nearly as many gifts as my sister and I received. Then, one Christmas I realized who Santa really was, and understood the joy my parents had in giving, as much as I had in receiving. Merry Christmas, everyone.

Robert Read, Publisher/Founder

H&L Gets Social! The Launch of MyHLMag Homes & Living magazine is all about communication and interaction – with readers, with advertisers and with the communities in which we proudly publish. Expanding our relationship with these important stakeholders means finding new channels of communication. Say hello to MyHLMag – H&L’s social media network that includes Twitter and Facebook, plus exciting website enhancements. Read more about MyHLMag online at HLMagazine.com.

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WINTER 2011

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| editor’s message

E Editor’s Message When it comes to Christmas, there has been a rule in my home for many years. Mom (that’s me) is not allowed to start decorating until after December 1st. I start humming Christmas carols in September, and make no apologies for it. Since I was a little girl, I have always loved the holidays, and left unsupervised, I would start decorating right after Halloween. Even now that our four children are grown and living on their own in various cities across Canada, the magic of the holiday season continues to fill me with excitement, anticipation and giddiness. This year will be particularly special as we have been blessed with our first grandchild - Mason Dean - who will just be a few months old on Christmas morning. These are the special occasions, and the family memories that stem from these life events, that makes each Christmas merry. H&L always features a well-known personality as the focus of our Celebrity Profile. For this issue, we are presenting one of the most famous men in the world, Santa Claus. Read about the entertaining history of Father Christmas [page 64], and how he brings delight and happiness to children of all ages. For a trip down memory

lane, grab a latte, curl up in front of the fire and be entertained by Tony Parsons Take on the Holidays [page 28]. Looking for trendy and unique holiday decorating ideas? Check out celebrity writer Jane Lockhart’s article Lose the Stress, Find the Sparkle [page 20]. Also, if you yearn for a white Christmas, the keen insights in H&L’s DIY decorating diva Lana Stokes article, Dreaming of a White Christmas [page 78] should not be missed. To our readers, who look forward to receiving Homes & Living, and who take the time to fill my email inbox with suggestions, thoughts and kind words about the magazine, I would like to express my sincere appreciation and thanks. On behalf of the entire editorial team, best wishes for a holiday season filled with enchantment and memories. Now, if you will excuse me, it’s time to retrieve the many ornament boxes from the garage and start decorating! Tracey Drake, Managing Editor Member: Canadian Society of Magazine Editors editor@hlmagazine.com

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

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SEND US YOUR THOUGHTS & QUESTIONS

Want to share your opinion about an article in this issue? Have a question about interior design, renovation or custom home building? Whether you need help with furniture placement in a small condo; want to ask about window choices for a specific home style, could benefit from an expert opinion on eco-friendly flooring, or want to comment on a recent article in H&L – we would love to hear from you! Send an email to editor@hlmagazine.com. If you have a specific design question, please be sure to include details regarding your renovation or home dilemma and a photo, if appropriate. We will publish at least one question each issue along with our response, in consultation with an H&L industry expert partner. (Please note we can only respond to questions being chosen for publication)

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| contributoRs Publisher & Founder Robert Read

H&L

Managing Editor Tracey Drake

Canadian Society of Magazine Editors Member Creative Director Karla Peckett Photographer Alec Watson Office Manager Lana Stokes

Karla Peckett

Tony Puerzer

Originally from Calgary, Karla is an Alberta College of Art and Design graduate and a former design company owner who now calls Victoria home. Her work is fuelled by a strong work ethic and a passion for contemporary design.

Tony is driven by his passion to fully understand a client’s vision and then bring to life in the form of a high-quality photograph or video. He has worked for companies ranging from IBM to individual entrepeneurs.

Creative Director

Photographer

Webmaster/Graphic Design Aidan Moher Director of Sales Jacquie Sartori Tel: 250.383.READ (7323) Office Assistant Gabriela Gorea Bookkeeping Kathleen Sebastian Contributing Writers Roberto Bernardi Pat Burkette Heather Chisholm Kyle Kolkman Jessica Krippendorf Kirby Jill Lang Jane Lockhart Lana Stokes Tony Parsons Ben Vorst Rebecca Wellman

Lana Stokes

Office Manager A Victoria native, Lana comes from an extensive office administration and customer service background. Lana holds a BA from UVIC and is currently completing an Advanced Diploma in Human Resource Management.

Jacquie Sartori Director of Sales

Jacquie stepped into the world of Media in 2003, working for Dream House Magazine, and fell in love with the industry. Her passion for building strong client relationships, combined with proven experience in radio, print and marketing, makes Jacquie perfectly suited for Homes and Living.

Canada Post Publications Mail Agreement 41950525 Homes & Living magazine - Victoria Published seasonally, four times each year. All rights reserved. No part of Homes & Living magazine may be reproduced or transmitted in any form without the expressed written consent of the publisher. The publisher reserves the right to accept or reject any editorial or advertising matter. To receive four issues (one full year!) subscriptions are available for $24.95 including shipping, handling and all taxes. Visa and M/C accepted, or mail a cheque or money order to: READ media inc. #110 - 2940 Jutland Road Victoria, BC V8T 5K6

Aidan Moher

Webmaster/Graphic Design

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Aidan grew up on a small island and now lives on a larger island. He’s travelled extensively through Europe and pines to return. Aidan’s professional range includes web design/development, graphic design, photography and writing.

Homes & Living is a registered trade-mark of Read Media Inc. with the Canadian Intellectual Property Office of Canada. Trade-mark registration number TMA799,399. Any use of this trade-mark without the publisher written consent is strictly prohibited.

Westmark Construction. Experience matters.

westmarkconstruction.ca T. 250 729 7540 | Unit 1, 2535 McCullough Road | Nanaimo, BC

WINTER 2011

Constructing Award Winning Commercial and Residential Projects since 1986.

| smile... you’re in h&L!

“Smile... You’re in H&L!”

DID YOU HAVE AN EVENT THAT YOU WOULD LIKE SHOWCASED IN HOMES & LIVING MAGAZINE? send your pictures and captions to: smile@hlmagazine.com

1. 12,000 sq ft of tile from around the world at City Tile’s new showroom! 2. Murray Briggs and Ardie Windley from Dogwood Mountain Homes at the H&L Disco Party. 3. City Tile partners, Vince D’Andrea and Dominic Staniscia with Nanaimo Mayor, John Ruttan, cutting the ribbon at City Tile’s spectacular new showroom. 4. Andrea Ironside & Chris Lundy of Westmark Construction receive their Feature Home Award from H&L’s Founder & Publisher-Robert Read for the masterful building of ‘Le Papillion’. 5. H&L’s Publisher & Founder - Robert Read hard at work as delivery boy on a Saturday morning. 6. H&L congratulates Lana McKinnon, Office Manager, on her marriage to Chase Stokes. 7. Jeremy Smith of K2 Stone at this year’s Victoria Home Expo. 8. H&L’s Creative Director, Karla Peckett, with boyfriend, Kyle Kolkman, owner of Adonis Body Sculpting at the wedding of Lana and Chase Stokes.

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| Lose the Stress, Find the Sparkle

Lose the Stress, Find the Sparkle |

Lose the Stress, Find the Sparkle Home holiday decorating with a twist

By Jane Lockhart Jane Lockhart B.A.A.I.D, Intern, A.R.I.D.O. is principal Interior Designer with Jane Lockhart Interior Design in Toronto and host of Colour Confidential on W Network. Interior Design and Story by Jane Lockhart | Jane Lockhart Interior Design janelockhart.com | info@janelockhart.com Photography by Laura Mills, courtesy of Kate’s Garden | www.katesgarden.com

When decorating for the holiday season rolls around, most of us immediately think of typical elements that express our joy for this time of year. Typically it’s about wreaths, the Christmas tree, candles, etc. Preparing your house can be stressful and overwhelming even if you do love the crisp air and beautiful clear and cold days! To really put some holiday punch into your home, the key is to add a touch of sparkle in every room you wish to showcase for this festive time of year!

The Christmas tree is often a major focal point at this time of year. A large tree really adds a statement to any room, whether real or artificial. If one large tree doesn’t work within your home’s layout, then consider several smaller trees throughout the house; they each could have different themes for variety. When decorating the principle tree, think ‘big’! Add large-sized ornaments, big bows and lots of decorations all over the tree. This gives the tree presence and ongoing interest as family and friends come by to visit over this busy season.

WINTER 2011

Not every space has to be elaborate or overly done; small touches can make an impact and change how an ordinary room feels. To bring life to any space, add greenery like pine boughs, wrapped with white twinkle lights. Wreaths do not have to be used only on the front door. Tie several of them together with ribbon and hang them vertically on a wall to make a unique decoration that adds texture and interest.

| Lose the Stress, Find the Sparkle Title Page: This season create a sophisticated palette for your festive table with a mix of gold, bronze, copper and chocolate brown. Left: Unique shapes in clear, textured glass hold candles and bobbles that catch the light and twinkle in candlelight.

Colour is a major part of this season’s decorating, but this doesn’t mean sticking to typical holiday colours. Play with unusual hues and add in more sophisticated palettes to make a real style statement. For instance, coppers, mixed with gold, bronze and chocolate brown is a stunning palette that is both unique and rich with out being typical. Even unexpected textures and materials make holiday décor more interesting and can enhance the ‘wow’ factor. Materials such as coloured feathers, glass beads, ribbons, stones, and grasses like raffia can all add unique qualities to your colour palette for this season of holiday décor. The holiday dining table is another important area for celebrating with family and the décor here can add to the festivities! Use large ribbons to make streamers to randomly add to the table top, mix white dishes with ones with shimmer and shine! Be sure to use festive napkin rings even if the napkins are paper as it dresses up the table so well! Even Christmas balls or ornaments can be great items to add to each place setting for fun or as a take-home gift! Holiday decorating doesn’t need to be expensive or complicated. By simply taking your collection of clear vases (which most of us own) and filling them with different sizes of shiny Christmas balls can be a very pretty festive element. The vases can either be grouped together or they can be spread around the house so each room has a touch of the holiday spirit.

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Small touches can make an impact and change how an ordinary room feels

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| Lose the Stress, Find the Sparkle

Imagine.

How would YOUR ‘Dream Sunroom’ Look?

Of course, candles and lights are a major feature of this season. Given that we live in a time of short days and long nights, adding light to your home over the holidays will add sparkle and joy to your home. Adding candles or wrapping white twinkle lights around railings and seasonal greens can add that soft glow that makes this time of year so special. As stressful as the lead up to the holidays can be, using what you already have for decorations, mixed with some personal colour choices and unique textures, can make your home ready for the holidays and the perfect place to gather and enjoy family and friends in the comfort of home.

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Top Left: Jane’s tall white flocked tree in the entrance hall is elegantly trimmed with oversized decorations including large bows, wide bronze ribbon garland, chocolate coloured poinsettia, dried magnolia leaf flowers and shiny copper balls. Above Top: Glass hurricanes with light brown pillar candles are set in the centre of white berry wreaths on a side table in the foyer. Above Bottom: A napkin decorated with ornaments and wrapped in shimmery ribbon makes each place setting special.

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| Tony’s Take on the Holidays

Tony’s Take on the Holidays |

By Tony Parsons Christmas memories for me always begin in England, at home on Kirchen Road in the London borough of Ealing. The war was in full stride and my father was away doing his bit in the RCAF and seldom made it home to celebrate with us, but my mother did her best. War time rationing was a fact of our lives. So there were no elaborate Christmas Day feasts. Certainly no turkey. Perhaps a chicken, rabbit or roast beef, if we were lucky. Maybe with Yorkshire pudding. And almost certainly trifle for ‘afters’, or dessert. Somehow my mother could always produce a Christmas pudding, smothered in custard which, for as long as I can remember, has been a custom at that time of the year. Inside that pudding were shillings or sixpenny pieces wrapped in waxed paper. If you were lucky your first bite, if it didn`t loosen a tooth, would yield a small treasure, and the short term envy of your siblings. Remember, the war was on and pocket money, or an allowance, was unheard of.

Christmas only lasted a few days and yet, the build-up seemed to go on for weeks

on the Holidays

For Tony, as with many who now call Vancouver Island home, memories of Christmas and family holidays often begin in England, complete with snow covered lanes in the English countryside, Yorkshire pudding and trifle for afters.

WINTER 2011

Tony’s Take

If you get the idea that the meal was the centre of our celebrations, you are partly right, but there were presents. Not elaborate. Maybe a book, which I loved and still do. An orange or a tangerine. Sweets were a real surprise. I was always happy with Licorice All Sorts, which exist to this day. We always followed that ageless tradition of stockings hanging on the fireplace mantle, carefully nailed into the wood, or taped if it was during one of my father`s infrequent visits. He was meticulous about his house and home. As a boy, I always took it a step further, overcome by expectation and anticipation. I think I believed that Father Christmas, as I knew Santa Claus then, would single me out with his largesse. So, I would always dangle an empty pillowcase off the end of my bed. No puny stocking could ever hold what I thought I`d find on Christmas morning. I was more often than not, disappointed. But I kept trying… for years.

| Tony’s Take on the Holidays

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We had a tree, of course. It was always real. No twinkling lights though after it was carefully set up in our living room. Instead, it was adorned with tinsel and colourful paper chains that we had put together ourselves. Because it came to us as nature (and my mother intended) it smelled glorious. Artificial trees, although they may be a good idea today, would have been frowned upon back then. We got ours from a nearby tree lot, set up by some local church charity. It was always a sad day when, after the revelry, the decorations were carefully removed from the tree and it was dumped outside the door for the dustman (he would be called a garbage man today) came around, usually the day after Boxing Day, to cart it away. How empty the living room looked. How hollow the feeling. That, to me, was the problem… Christmas only lasted a few days. The build-up to it seemed to go on for weeks.

Our Canadian Christmases were much the same, while we were together as a family. By that time, there were dazzling lights on the tree, some that even bubbled, and others that blinked; ornaments of all colours, shapes and sizes. Some ornaments, collected over the years, have come to have special meaning. They are more memorabilia than decoration, and are put away every year to be unboxed and used again the next.

It was always said of him, that he knew how to keep Christmas well, if any man alive possessed the knowledge. May that be truly said of us, and all of us! And so, as Tiny Tim observed, “God Bless Us, Every One! - Charles Dickens

Because we lived in a distant part of Ontario when we first arrived in Canada more than sixty years ago, we did our gift shopping in the Eaton’s catalogue, or a similar one sent out by Simpsons, the forerunner to what we know now as Sears. Browsing through the pages was a never ending pleasure, as I recall. I eventually yielded to the idea of Christmas stockings rather than Christmas pillowcases because my mother had suddenly become a single parent and I knew she couldn`t afford many presents for us, but the special feeling that that season of seasons presented every year never left us. Tammy and I have had some memorable events built around the celebration.

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| Tony’s Take on the Holidays

One year, not long ago, we decided to go back to England to experience what I have always remembered. We stayed in a posh hotel in Mayfair, in a suite arranged by a friend of Tammy`s family. The management had given it a seasonal touch with a small tree. The best part was it had a fireplace which, for me, is a necessary part of Christmas observances. ‘Chestnuts A fireplace, for me, is a necessary part of roasting on an open fire’, and all Christmas observances - chestnuts roasting on of that. Later we thought we`d an open fire - and all of that replicate that holiday with another in Victoria, at Abigail’s Hotel, which is as close as you can get, I think, to a truly authentic periodEnglish manor hotel. The plan was to surprise the family by turning up the next morning, Christmas Day, unannounced, to share their day. They loved it, and so did we. True Christmas celebrations are very dependent on climate, I think. That`s why a couple of years spent in Phoenix were more or less burned out the by the sun and heat. My heart tells me there should be snow, or at the very least, rain. Tammy makes up for it though, with a burst of decoration genius that turns a nine foot tree, despite being artificial, into a thing of Christmas beauty. She has a knack for that, and for choosing presents, arranging a perfect menu, setting a breathtaking table, and making everyone feel good about the occasion. Maybe we should call her ‘Mother Christmas’. Now we look forward, as I`m sure you do, to many happy Christmases on our Island. Best wishes to you and yours for a very happy holiday!

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WINTER 2011

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| Cooking Up Some Tasty Designs

Cooking Up Some Tasty Designs New appliances combine sleek appearance, flexible function, and discreet placements By Ben Vorst

The kitchen has long been a gathering place; drawn to the warmth and alluring aromas, humans have congregated, first around the fire and then around the hearth. As dwellings grew larger and larger, however, kitchens became associated more with domestic duty and less with family cohesion. With the appearance of grand houses, they were increasingly tucked away in basements, out of sight. More and more of us were becoming detached from the preparation of our food and all the wonderful sights and smells it entails.

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Homeowners refuse to sacrifice taste for tastiness

Fortunately, modern society has made useful and inviting kitchens important in every family home, a staple of domestic coordination and a stage for creativity. The hearth was replaced with the oven and new labour-saving devices consistently appear to make family feasting easier and more diverse. The kitchen has reclaimed its rightful place at the centre of home life.

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Cooking Up Some Tasty Designs |

| Cooking Up Some Tasty Designs

Photo provided by Coast Wholesale Appliances

With the growing popularity of eat-in kitchens (including the extinction of the formal dining room) and the explosion of foodie culture, the market has responded with an increasing selection of stylish, functional, and flexible appliances. The battle to bring chic to the kitchen is increasingly being won by homeowners that refuse to sacrifice taste for tastiness.

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One of the strongest movements in kitchen design is seamlessness: all appliances should be seen as part of the flowing kitchen landscape. People are increasingly looking for large appliances to be built into their cabinets and islands, affecting a less intrusive presence.

All appliances should be seen as part of the flowing kitchen landscape

Whereas in the past cabinetmakers, plumbers, and electricians were brought in separately from the placement of appliances, they now need to be part of the planning process. For instance: refrigerators set into cabinets must have adequate space for ventilation, as well as a plumbing wall behind them, and the requisite electrical capacity. B.C. safety standards dictate the spacing of ovens and cooktops from cabinets and countertops, to minimize fire risks, and in-cabinet ovens and warming drawers require similar oversight. The overriding theme for kitchen appliance design is still sleekness. Stainless steel continues to dominate the homeownersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; selection. Aside from its obvious attraction for cleanliness, stainless steel is also relatively unobtrusive to a colour scheme, especially when paired with granite or marble countertops. Recently, glass and ceramic have been making increasing inroads. Although appliance colours are often limited to neutral tones (white, black, and stainless), burnished copper finishes have recently appeared, offering a touch of colour and warmth to the design options.

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WINTER 2011

MARBLE & GRANITE KITCHEN COUNTERTOPS

| Cooking Up Some Tasty Designs

Photo provided by Colonial Countertops Ltd. (Cambria product shot)

Although it is true that any design plan for the modern kitchen will start with choosing cabinets, countertops, and flooring, appliance selection is often a regrettable afterthought. This presents a problem for in-cabinet appliance settings, making it impossible to create a custom, cohesive look and feel. It is possible, however, with a little foresight, to design and install a kitchen that exudes style and gives up nothing in function. A big part of the equation is knowing what your needs and desires are for a kitchen:

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• How much time do you spend cooking? • How dedicated are you to specialty recipes that require modern cooking technology? • How many people are you feeding every day? • How often do you entertain on a large scale?

Very popular in today’s kitchen is the separate cooktop, a set of stovetop elements at counter height, seamlessly integrated and without an attached oven beneath. Often integrated into the island, the design allows you to tuck the oven(s) away elsewhere and create a flowing work area. This is where you are most likely to find ceramic or composite materials, often in elegant black (a design element that encourages regular cleaning, the way a black Porsche does!). Cooktops are usually still powered by gas or electric, but new sources like induction heat are becoming increasingly prominent. New design features include raisedpin elements and downdraft technology.

Heating appliances are undergoing a redesign, including combination ovens that use microwave or convection for quick dishes; very popular for under-counter or island installations. Most homeowners, though, still prefer to have a full range in the kitchen, with large oven underneath. Cooking enthusiasts are demanding more and more capacity from their main appliances, and full 6-burner commercial quality ranges are becoming commonplace, despite the inability to easily integrate them into a smooth, non-custom design. Unique additions showing up in custom kitchens include large rotisserie ovens. A strong, enduring trend is the presence of islands in large kitchens; this serves several flexible functions, from providing an informal serving area and an extra preparation space to a location for lowvisibility appliances and storage options. Smaller fridges (for prep and wine) are commonplace installations, as are fully integrated refrigeration drawers with cabinet facings. An exciting feature is the development of wine cellars, housed within the kitchen island and fronted with glass, complete with digital temperature control. One area in that has made major leaps is ventilation. The age of the clunky range hood, perfect for gathering grease and grime on top, is quickly fading. The new generation of hoods are minimalist, incorporating angular design and attractive glass components; available in wall-mounted or island-friendly variations.

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| Cooking Up Some Tasty Designs

Photo provided by Coast Wholesale Appliances

A well-designed kitchen is essential to the modern home Dishwashers have always been fairly unobtrusive and have been tucked away under counters for a while. Newer models are fully integrated, with complete cabinet facings, and the technology advances have translated into practically silent operation.

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With all the new advances in appliances, digital displays and control panels are becoming much more popular. This movement has the dual effect of being user-friendly and of hiding the necessary elements in more discreet places, allowing fuller integration into the cabinet design.

Stainless steel dominates, although glass and ceramic are making inroads

Whatever your kitchen design goals and culinary predilections, a well-designed space for cooking, eating and entertaining is essential in todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s home. If modern appliances cannot yet make our food for us from scratch, at least they are making it easier for us to look good while we do it for ourselves!

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WINTER 2011

Kitchen & Bath Cabinets & Counter Tops Wall Beds Mantles and Built-ins Commercial Millwork

Th in k in g o f S e l l i n g ?

We s e l l a home e v e r y 3 .6 3 d a y s . ( T h e area a v e r a g e for R E A LT O R S is e v e r y 6 2 days)

Aver a g e sa le tim e is 30% fa ster tha n the O cea nsid e Aver a g e

We sell for 2% more on average. (That’s $8,720 more on the average sale price this year!)

WE SELL MORE HOMES FASTER AND NET YOU MORE MONEY WHAT OUR CLIENTS ARE SAYING: “The service provided by the Ohs & McLane team was beyond what you would expect from a real estate team and we couldn’t be happier with our decision to list with them. They provide an amazing marketing package that gives your house the best possible exposure, they keep you informed on any feedback received from potential buyers, and they are always willing to answer questions and provide advice. We will definitely be using this team for all of our future real estate needs.” - Dave & Leanne Souchuck “The service that Rob Ohs and Andrew McLane gave us was excellent. Their advertising and marketing gave us a quick and easy sale and the time they put into open houses and follow up service made us feel totally satisfied with our choice to use them as our Realtors. We will definitely recommend Ohs & McLane and will 100% list again.” - Paul Turner & Adam Sturlis “I was impressed with the high level of quality marketing and exposure my house received while listed with Ohs & McLane. This resulted in numerous and frequent viewings and ultimately a quick sale of my home. I would definitely use Ohs & McLane for future real estate needs.” - Sheila Sims “It was immediately apparent that only one Realtor was fully qualified to meet our criteria and that was the Ohs & McLane team. Their proposed marketing system was much more far-reaching and would get the needed exposure through the internet, as well as the more conventional print, direct mail, and Realtor-to-Realtor promotion.” - Earl and Marlene Horton

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“Tough markets require strategy and marketing is everything. The Ohs & McLane team delivers that. They spare no expense, they listen, they deliver. We were very impressed and would not hesitate in recommending them for the sale of your home.” - Kathleen Todd / Terry Hannay

Mike Reeves

250-752-SOLD (7653) 1-800-224-5906 www.OhsMclane.com

Andrew McLane PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION

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PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION

679 Memorial Ave, Qualicum Beach, BC V9K 1T4

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| Feature home

Written by Jessica Krippendorf Photography by Tony Puerzer

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‘The Murard’ by Dogwood Mountain Homes

Nouveau Character High Above Nanaimo, BC

HOME BUILDER Dogwood Mountain Homes Architect Delinea Design Consultants Ltd. INTERIOR DESIGN Kallos Interior Design STYLE West Coast Contemporary BEDROOMS 4

BATHROOMS 4

SQUARE FEET 3,400

Feature home |

“The Murard” is an unexpected, lively home, full of the passion that only a dream home can exude. The 3,400 square foot custom built home is positioned bluff-top overlooking sprawling farmland and greenery at the base of Nanaimo’s Mount Benson, where a breathtaking early morning fog often curls in and around an epic landscape.

“Even after three years, it is still like a picture to me,” says Murray Briggs, owner and builder of the home he and his partner, Ardie Windley watched come to life over a one-year span. Briggs owns Dogwood Mountain Homes—a fullservice general contractor specializing in custom

home projects. The 23 year old company constructs houses in many styles from provincial to West Coast contemporary, and this is the sixth custom home Briggs has constructed for himself. Even so, the decision to build the home of the couple’s dreams was an edifying experience Briggs says has made him a better contractor.

WINTER 2011

The Murard is the essence of modern living, boasting wide open spaces and family comfort

| Feature home

“Making those decisions and considerations gave me a real insight to the homeowner’s perspective,” he says. “I feel like I am in a better position to meet a client’s needs having gone through this process.” The company completes its own foundations, framing, timber siding, and finishing carpentry with a skilled team of workers, each of whom has been with the company eight years or longer. “We maintain control of the final product to ensure a quality workmanship from start to finish,” says Briggs. “We work on homes of any size, but we prefer the challenge of larger custom homes and intricate finishes. There is always more than meets the eye.”

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Briggs and Windley brought that sense of dedication to every detail of their home, beginning with the location. They wanted a lot with character— something completely unique and connected to nature—but didn’t want high maintenance acreage. They found their dream location, and although they had to remove 150 loads of rock material to level the driveway, the draw was irresistible.

A welcoming West Coast façade set against a spectacular backdrop of mountains

“We loved the view,” says Briggs. “When we walked up we couldn’t believe it.” The couple enlisted Will Melville of Delinea Design Consultants because of a familiar working relationship between the company and Dogwood Mountain Homes. The homeowners provided some basic parameters before granting Melville free range, including southfacing orientation for as many rooms as possible and a substantial, chalet inspired design form that simultaneously evokes strength, retreat ambiance and Zen-like serenity.

Seasons Greetings from

H O M E S

R E N O V A T I O N S

Committed to customer satisfaction T. 250.390.0317 - 6230 Garside Road, Nanaimo, B.C.

dogwoodmountainhomes.com

WINTER 2011

C U S T O M

| Feature home

“One thing we wanted was windows and windowed doors so you could see straight through from the front door, and when you stepped in you felt like you were walking straight outside,” says Briggs.

Bubble rock fountains are positioned around a rock lined river bed formation along the side of the house that curves with the driveway to create a softness that appears to swirl around the base of the home.

of the home that leads to a dramatic cedar door with an inset three by six foot glass panel. The window is layered against interior glazing, opening up a clear field of vision that stretches far back to the view beyond the property.

The couple loves to entertain and wanted the view to inspire and enliven the guests while the floor plan stayed functional and social.

Indigenous plantings realize the vision of well-manicured, low maintenance landscaping and are a subtle announcement of the extensive use of natural material inside. The sprinkler system is a case in exacting water efficiency science—tiny units are positioned under each plant and in each pot and are scheduled to run as needed for complete control and no waste.

Inside, the home’s features are largely angular and square with very few rounded or soft lines. The scale of the trim and interior finishes is large and the lines are bold, but the colours and materials are clean and natural for a strong, deliberate presence that waits to be noticed.

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On Windley’s wish list were a calming, neutral palette and large scale architectural features that were at the same time easy to relate to.

Melville didn’t disappoint. The exterior commands a strong; West Coast inspired presence with slate grey Hardy plank in vertical and horizontal configurations and custom cedar accents around the windows, double garage doors and gables.

Posts extend from a main beam secured under the larger than average timber overhangs to create a sheltered walkway along the left side

The couple kept the palette neutral to keep the focus on the view and on the extensive millwork that extends to and ties in with the exterior beams. “I didn’t want people’s attention darting around at bright colours,” says Windley.

Feature home |

The great room is designed around comfort, substance and play—black leather sectionals are a strong foundation against a multi-toned wave patterned carpet. White leather pieces—a hassock, corner chair and standing lamp— create opposition for the sofas while silver accents add a touch of sophistication. Green and orange earth tone throws pull inspiration from the outdoors and from art pieces that seem made for the space. Central to the room is the fireplace, set asymmetrically into a concrete frame facing that extends down on either side to meet a

cantilevered concrete hearth. The pre-fabricated hearth was brought onsite for installation weighing approximately 600 lb., says Briggs.

‘The Murard’ is an unexpected, lively home, full of the passion that only a dream home can exude

The fireplace is flanked by art pieces to the left that subtly and meticulously picks up red, green and gold tones and hues from the room’s careful accents, and by a six by five foot window to the right. The result is a cohesive feature wall that invites gathering and conversation in an easy flowing, sophisticated environment. Positioned with the valley and an extensive patio as a backdrop, the integrated dining area leads off from the great room and features a dark brown Yoshi table that offers a beautiful mottled appearance and seamless solid hardwood legs. Leather chairs seat six comfortably beneath a frosted glass and cast iron Hubbardton forge pendant chandelier.

WINTER 2011

Just inside the entrance, a 4 x 8 foot slate rock and stainless steel water feature is the first of many carefully chosen pieces that complement the architectural elements.

| Feature home

Completing the circle is the kitchen—an exquisite, floor to ceiling mosaic of layered rectangles in a variety of textures. On the backsplash a dark grey porcelain tile configuration with alternating vertical grained Lagos Azul blue stone as a middle accent tie together with the recesses of the full-height cabinetry where dark wood and frosted glass offer a similar contrast. Oversized silver industrial pulls keep these finishes to scale and offer sleek, clean lines along with a stainless steel range hood and appliances. A wraparound polished concrete counter and a two-level island countertop of the same material with a moulded sink and built-in cutting board on the bottom level add an additional layer of texture. The counters’ two-inch depth is just enough of an oversize to reflect the bold image of the interior finishes.

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The window facing sink is placed asymmetrically against a concrete window ledge – a playful and articulate detail considering its location directly across the room from the fireplace of similar design.

The kitchen’s elegance is matched only by its functionality. Independently operated dishwasher drawers, an over-the-range pot filler—“I’ve always wanted one of these,” says the homeowners—and large gas cooktop are just a few European influenced touches that bring ease of use to the room. An HAI control system is command central for pre-set lighting, audio visual and security features.

A master retreat – complete with spa bathroom and private terrace befitting an island lifestyle

Feature home |

The main floor powder room offers one of The Murard’s prized features—a moulded concrete vanity with inset rock edges and stainless steel inlay running vertically down the front. A raised bowl sink in red decorative glass is a pleasant splash of colour against the industrial grey of the concrete, and bits of broken red glass embedded in the counter top give the illusion of a reflection. The wine cellar off the kitchen is marked by a metal mesh door leading to a slate rock set of stairs below. A 30 cubic-foot mass of rock in the cellar is a creative element the homeowners thought of during construction. “We thought it would be neat so we had a crane hoist it into what we knew would be the cellar,” says Briggs. Down the hall is the interior door to Windley’s office—the ultimate in executive styled work / live office space. The walls are glazed in six by seven foot and five by six foot windows and a six foot wide glass double door allows private access. Inside, ample natural light falls on a natural palette and oversized wooden trim and door casings which, along with large custom milled doors and transom windows bring a ‘nouveau character home’ element to a completely contemporary space. Beyond the great room, double doors open to a generous, 50 foot deck that wraps around either side of the home. Protected southern exposure and a full service outdoor dining and kitchen area create a stunning hub for all season entertaining. A fridge and cold water storage, Jackson grill, huge barbeque and built-in trash drawer ensure every need is accommodated. Slate ledge stone on the kitchen counter is durable and stylish and rough cut slate around the bar is a beautiful detail. An exterior heater and recessed pot lights make the space comfortable and functional. A corner-fitted outdoor sofa curves around a fire table and steel accents offer durable outdoor décor while reflecting the silver accents from the great room.

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Back inside, Brazilian tigerwood flooring ties in with the darker grain in the timbers and is skillfully used to clad a load-bearing post at the bottom of the hand built, solid wood staircase that leads to the second floor.

Carefully planned art niches at the top of the stairs and in the bedrooms welcome creativity and help shape dynamic, flexible spaces that accommodate the needs of an evolving family.

NANAIMO 250.758.0181 LANGFORD 250.478.2989 VICTORIA 250.385.6746

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WINTER 2011

A dramatic art piece on the wall at the landing adds interest and is a spectacular complement to a pendant chandelier made of curved and textured amber glass panels wire suspended over the staircase.

TONY PUERZER

| Feature home

TONY PUERZER

NANAIMO BASED PHOTOGRAPHER TONY PUERZER IS PASSIONATE ABOUT NANAIMO BASED PHOTOGRAPHER SHOOTING ARCHITECTURE AND ABOUT TONY PUERZER IS PASSIONATE PORTRAITURE, SAYS THAT HIS SHOOTINGBUT ARCHITECTURE AND MOST RECENT VISIT TOSAYS FLORIDA WAS PORTRAITURE, BUT THAT HIS TRULY FOR THE MOSTONE RECENT VISITBOOKS. TO FLORIDA WAS TRULY ONE FOR THE BOOKS.

PUERZER NOW WITH H&L! “I RECENTLY HAD THE CHANCE TO FULFILL

RECENTLY HAD THE CHANCE TO FULFILL A A “I CHILDHOOD DREAM BY PHOTOGRAPHING CHILDHOOD DREAM BY PHOTOGRAPHING THE FINAL THE FINAL NIGHT LAUNCH OF THE SPACE NIGHT LAUNCH OF THE SPACE SHUTTLE DISCOVERY,” SHUTTLE DISCOVERY,” SAYSDURING PUERZER WHO SAYS PUERZER WHO WAS IN FLORIDA THE WAS IN AND FLORIDA THE LAUNCH, LAUNCH, WITNESSDURING TO THE RAW POWER OF THE AND SHUTTLE ASTO IT LIFTED INTO SPACE. OF THE SHUTTLE WITNESS THEOFF RAW POWER AS IT LIFTED OFF INTO SPACE. WHEN HE’S WHEN HE’S NOT AT LIFT OFFS, HE SAYS THAT HIS NOT AT LIFT OFFS, HE SAYS THAT HIS ALARM ALARM CLOCK IS GOING OFF TO CAPTURE AN EARLY CLOCK ISSUNRISE, GOINGNOTING OFF TO MORNING THATCAPTURE HIS WORK AN EARLY MORNING NOTING THAT WORK CONSTANTLYSUNRISE, DRIVES HIM TO EXPERIENCE NEW HIS SIGHTS AND MEET NEW AND EXITING PEOPLE. “PHOTOGRAPHY CONSTANTLY DRIVES HIM TO EXPERIENCE HAS ENRICHED EXPERIENCE OF PEOPLE NEW SIGHTSMYAND MEET NEW AND AND EXITING NATURE IN MORE WAYS THAN I CAN COUNT.” PEOPLE. “PHOTOGRAPHY HAS ENRICHED MY EXPERIENCE OF BROAD PEOPLE AND INBEMORE HIS INVENTIVE AND RANGE OF NATURE TALENT CAN WAYS THAN I CAN COUNT.” SEEN ON THE GLOSSY PAGES OF HOMES & LIVING MAGAZINE, A SHOWCASE OF SOME OF THE MOST ARCHITECTURALLY FASCINATING HOMES ON HIS INVENTIVE AND BROAD RANGE OFTHE TALENT CAN ISLAND. View his work at BE SEEN ON THE GLOSSY PAGES OF HOMES & LIVING BRIGHTIDEAPHOTOGRAPHY.COM MAGAZINE, A SHOWCASE OF SOME OF THE MOST or at hlmagazine.com. ARCHITECTURALLY FASCINATING HOMES ON THE ISLAND.

You can view his work at BRIGHTIDEAPHOTOGRAPHY.COM, or visit hlmagazine.com to view his stunning architectural pictures in many of H&L’s feature home slide shows.

The floor and wall finishes transition effectively between the two levels with complementing textures and colours. Upstairs the texture in a sculpted wave patterned carpet picks up the dark grain in the wood flooring. It also transitions the bedrooms to a serene atmosphere with soft, rich undertones. The functional plan places the bedrooms upstairs and the media room over the garage for the ultimate in privacy and sound control. Vaulted ceilings throughout the upper floor bring an unusual and eye-catching dynamic to the space – varied peaks and shapes playfully mirror a mountain range, but they are also essential in keeping the scale. With a blended family of six children coming and going, the house can be a busy place. It was essential that Briggs and Windley had an oasis to call their own in the midst of it all. The master bedroom is a picturesque scene from a magical mountain resort. The floor plan is jogged and irregular, and a 14-foot vaulted ceiling opens up the space to a balcony overlooking the valley. A nook at the far end of the room will be fitted with built-ins for a convenient walk-in storage area. The room’s palette is soft and warm with tones of yellow warmed against the rich tones of dark wood. A gas fireplace makes evenings cozy and a full length mirror with a six-inch thick frame is another testament to the home’s fearless scale. In the master ensuite, polished concrete makes another appearance in the countertops, complete with double moulded sinks. Sconces and pendant lighting fixtures over the rectangular soaker bathtub keep the mood light and ambient, while the walk-in, door-less shower clad in earth-tone tile and a pebbled floor evoke images of a warm evening on the beach. Dark wood on the vanity creates a focal point that pulls the room together and an adults’ only infrared sauna is a space to unwind. Dogwood Mountain Homes has a company philosophy that is simple, honest and is evident in every design element and build feature of The Murard: “It sounds funny, but we really do put our heart and soul and a real passion into every home we build,” says Briggs.

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See MORE photos of this exceptional custom home - available exclusively in H&L’s Feature Home Slideshow - online at HLMagazine.com

Feature home |

H&L is pleased to present the following quality suppliers and subtrades, who proudly partnered with Dogwood Mountain Homes on ‘The Murard’:

Lighting

Finishing/Hardware

McLaren Lighting 250.758.0138 mclarenlighting.com

McGregor-Thompson 250.729.7888 mcgregor-thompson.com

Roofing

Drywall/Insulation

Four Winds Roofing 250.754.7077 fourwindsroofing.com

InsulPro Industries 250.751.1108 wes.insulpro@shawbiz.ca

LANDSCAPING

Flooring

Mystical Images LANDSCAPING

Mystical Images

SUPPLIERS

Mystical Images Landscaping 250.468.9745 mysticalimages.ca

City Tile 250.729.9766 citytile.ca

Furnishings

Jordans 250.385.6746 jordans.ca

Scan Designs 250.475.2233 scandesigns.com

WINTER 2011

LANDSCAPING

| H&L’s Epicure

This season, spend less time in the kitchen… and still dazzle guests

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H&L’s

Epicure

Modern Take on Traditional Holiday Fare Words and Photographs by Rebecca Wellman Recipes Exclusive to H&L

H&L’s Epicure |

“Gifts of time and love are surely the basic ingredients of a truly merry Christmas.” – Famed food author Peg Bracken

While the usual and adored turkey has most certainly been a part of my family’s holiday routine through the years, the more recent generations have strived to stretch their culinary forte with holiday menus themed around Greek lamb, beef wellington and Spanish paella.

This year is no different, yet I ponder over the dilemma of how I can do it without spending hours in the kitchen. Instead, I ache to stand in the circle of titillating conversation - a cool cocktail in one hand, easy delicious food in the other, and time to actually enjoy the festivities without the strife and stress of a multi course sit down. My mind continues to wander, picturing easy prep and a plethora of flavours and I think earthy, warm, flaky. Wild mushrooms, fresh herbs and sweet and savory onions. Dollops of goat cheese - softened, browned.

WINTER 2011

As another holiday season lurks enticingly (and somewhat menacingly) around the corner, I stand in the doorway of my pantry and wonder what I can do to put a refreshing twist on an upcoming gathering. Sound familiar?

| H&L’s Epicure

CARAMELIZED ONION AND WILD MUSHROOM TART 2 large sweet onions (halved and thinly sliced) 1 tbsp butter 5 tbsp olive oil 1 tbsp brown sugar 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar 2 tbsp minced fresh rosemary or thyme (or both) 4 cups fresh wild mushrooms, chopped (oyster, shiitake or in season) 2 cloves garlic, minced 1/3 cup dry vermouth or white wine 1/4 cup cream 1 sheet puff pastry (about 200g) thawed all purpose flour 1 egg 1 package of goat cheese (113g) salt and pepper Position rack in the middle of oven and preheat to 375 degrees.

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Add butter and 2 tbsp of olive oil to a large skillet and heat. Add onions and cook on medium-high, stirring frequently until onions become soft and start to colour, about 15-20 minutes. If the pan starts to get dry, reduce heat and add a tbsp or two of water, but remember – they are meant to be browned, not boiled. Add the balsamic and brown sugar, reduce heat to medium and continue to cook until onions are very soft and brown, another 10-15 minutes. Season generously with salt and pepper, remove from heat. Set aside in a bowl to cool.

In a clean skillet, add the remaining 3 tablespoons of olive oil and mushrooms, stirring frequently over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes. The mushrooms will absorb the oil quickly and seem dry, but keep stirring! Once the mushrooms start to release moisture, add garlic and salt and pepper to

This season… think easy, make-ahead and delicious

taste. Add herbs and cook for 5 minutes more. Once the pan starts to become dry again, add vermouth or wine. Cook until liquid is reduced, about 3 minutes. Reduce heat to medium-low and add cream very slowly so as not to scorch. Allow cream to be absorbed, stirring for 5 more minutes. Set aside. In the meantime, roll out pastry on a lightly floured surface, to approximately 10x12 inches. Transfer to a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment. With a sharp knife, score a 1/2 inch border around the outside of the pastry. Beat egg with a bit of water, and brush along the border. Prick inside the border all over with a fork. Top with the onion mix, follow with the mushrooms. Crumble goat cheese over top. Bake for 25-35 minutes, or until pastry is puffed and goat cheese is slightly browned. Allow the tart to cool and slice into squares. Serve at room temperature. Serves 6-8 as an appetizer.

H&L’s Epicure |

Don’t worry turkey – we still love you Tradition has its place. But, there is still room for making our holiday side dishes a little more unique and a little more healthy. Instead of mashed potatoes, how about rosemary and lemon roasted potatoes? Rather than traditional bread stuffing, perhaps an Italian bread salad? Candied yams have been around for years. This year, replace them with roasted acorn squash with brown sugar and thyme.

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WINTER 2011

And instead of pecan pie - actually, wait… the pie can stay!

| H&L’s Epicure

I spot a bowl of fresh BC pears on my counter, and before my eyes, the sweet and beautiful morsels morph into a cool and luscious cocktail. Some sweet honey. Some tart lime. I feel inspired. I put aside the thought of the standard eggnog libation, and the glass of warmed and spicy hot-toddy. I take a vacation from heavy red wine. I jot down some ingredients on a piece of paper and pull out my martini shaker. I turn on some holiday music and I look in the corner at my new winter boots – cute enough to wear with a dress. I want to show them off to more than the oven and the stovetop. I want out of the kitchen. I want make-ahead, finger food, fresh and memorable. This year, I will strive to release myself from gravy laden, days of preparation and hours of clean up. I endeavor to lighten it up, join in the party, and take full advantage of the mistletoe. Won’t you join me?

PEAR AND APPLE MARTINI ½ ripe pear (peeled, cored and chopped) 1 sprig of fresh rosemary, approximately 2” 1 ounce Calvados liqueur 2 ounces vodka orange bitters 1 tbsp honey 1 tbsp hot water soda water large ice cubes 1 lime cut in half Mix honey and hot water and set aside to cool. Add rosemary to a martini shaker and muddle until fragrant. Add pear and gently muddle again, taking care not to pulverize. Add 2 generous shakes of orange bitters, honey, vodka and Calvados. Fill shaker with ice. Shake vigorously, until the outside of the shaker is visibly chilled. Rub rim of chilled glasses with ½ lime. Strain martini mixture into chilled glasses, top with a squeeze of lime and a splash of soda to taste. Serves 2.

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Cocktail Muddling

In the world of cocktails, muddling refers to blending, bruising or pressing together ingredients, achieving results similar to a mortar and pestle. Martini muddling is done directly in the shaker, just before adding the liquid ingredients.

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| Garden Splendour

Garden Splendour Great Winterscape Gardening Begins with Good Bones

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By Pat Burkette

‘Honeyhill Joy’ Hellebore, Helleborus ‘Honeyhill Joy’ delights with brightness and crisp colour in the winter landscape. Photo provided by LANDECA.

Garden Splendour |

Discovering a flower blooming beneath an evergreen in January is a lot like finding the perfect present under the Yule tree!

On Vancouver Island, real gardeners come out to play in winter. Unlike the rest of Canada, we enjoy abundant plant choices offering architectural interest, colour, and fragrance throughout our mild (well, mostly!) winters. So, ‘tis indeed a season to be very jolly as a gardener, and gifting your family, and your neighbors, with inspiring garden winterscaping is a great way to embrace and celebrate this time of year. According to Valerie Murray, Garden Advisor for the Government House Gardens (including the Winter Garden), the best winterscapes begin with the ‘bones’. “We all have to start with a skeleton. If the garden’s got good bones, the flowers are extra,” explains Murray, who has also supervised the Doris Page Winter Garden at Glendale Gardens for years. Good bones include attractively shaped shrubs and trees, and evergreens. Hardscaping elements like sculptures, furniture and pathways also create visual interest when blooms are spent. Winter gardeners shouldn’t ignore the empty spaces between plants either. In Japanese garden design, space around garden elements is called ma. Ma is often left empty to better define key plants or sculptures. When considering your garden’s bones, pay attention to the play of light for plantings. Winter light can define and enhance trees and shrubs, especially those with interesting branches and bark.

Janice Rule, Manager of Garden Works (Oak Bay) recommends Harry Lauder’s Walking Stick, or Corkscrew Hazel, as another interesting structural plant for the winter garden. “Euphorbias also adds some bones to a garden,” says Rule.

WINTER 2011

Murray loves the way winter light shines through curls of paper bark maple. “Garry oaks look better in the winter than summer. The sculpture of the branches is wonderful.”

| Garden Splendour

‘Ivory Prince’ Hellebore, Helleborus ‘Ivory Prince’ is a lush winter landscape favourite that continues to flower into the spring. Photo provided by LANDECA.

Architectural plants and attractive benches do not alone a great winter garden make. During our grey winter months, plantings that offer colour, texture and fragrance are prized.

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Murray and Rule both suggest Coral Bark Maples and yellow and red twigged Dogwoods for colour. Murray says Skimmias and Callicarpa create a bright splash with their red and purple berries.

Camellia sasanqua, or the Christmas Camellia.

To provide fragrance that will instantly vanquish winter doldrums, you can’t go wrong with Sarcococca and Viburnum bodnantense(Pink Dawn), with its’ pinkish white flowers. “Sarcococca is fabulous,” says Murray. You smell it from a distance and wonder where all that fragrance is coming from.” In fact, surprise is as important to Vancouver Island winter gardens as it is to Christmas morning. Discovering a flower blooming beneath an evergreen in January is a lot like finding the perfect present under the Yule tree. Winter aconite and hardy Cyclamen (Cyclamen coum) are but two of Murray’s favourite winter flowers.

Garden Splendour |

Rule likes the richly coloured burgundy or lime foliage of heucheras, as well as bud bloomer heathers and Cinnamon Snow and Ivory Prince Hellebores. She suggests hardy ferns for texture in the winterscape, and says evergreen ground covers create a lush winter scene. “You can plant thymes if the site is sunny, or try wire vine (Muehlenbeckia), Lysimachia, and non-invasive variegated ivies. Look for ivies that don’t flower,” she says. Ivy and holly are certainly traditional Christmas plants, and red and green traditional colours, but the island’s winter gardens are also places for more modern holidaythemed plantings. Hellebores, aka the Christmas rose, are good value, offering long blooming winter colour. “I put hellebores in nice pots by my back door, where I can see them when I’m coming and going.” Murray also suggests golden coloured box honeysuckle (Lonicera nitida, Baggesen’s Gold) to warm the winterscape. The shrub takes to topiary. “You can make it into ball shapes,” she says. Creative gardeners might like to try Christmas tree shapes. According to the JRank Encyclopedia online, Queen Victoria and Prince Albert had Lonicera nitida shrubs clipped in the form of stags at their Isle of Wight holiday home.

Surprise is as important to Vancouver Island winter gardens as it is to Christmas morning

A favourite winter garden plant actually has a holiday theme. She says you can’t beat Camellia sasanqua, or the Christmas Camellia, for a winter show in November, December, and January. The camellia loves winter sun, and is available in red bloomed Yuletide and its’ relative, Pink Yuletide. Containers near the house are another way to create visual interest within the winterscape. Decorate dwarf conifers in pots, like dwarf globe blue spruce and dwarf yellow cedar, with ornaments, or search the web for tips on making natural decorations with cones, vines, berries, and seed pods. Rule suggests creating a Christmas planter with some fragrant Sarcococca, a Heuchera, and an ornamental grass, then adding some cut branches of red dogwood, and some Christmas led lights on sticks. Rule also suggests putting early bulbs, like snowdrops and crocus into a pot, close to Christmas. They will come up earlier in the pot. Now there’s a Christmas gift that no winter embracing but spring craving - gardener could refuse!

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If a garden has good bones, flowers are just a bonus

| The Victoria Symphony

The Victoria Symphony Celebrates Its 71st Season Vancouver Island is Treated to Four Holiday Concerts The Victoria Symphony, one of the most successful and well regarded symphonies in Canada, is proud to announce four holiday concerts in its 71st season.

Ashley MacIsaac

“Music changes us and gives us each a different gift as great music and great art reflects upon us and we upon it.” — Tania Miller, Music Director, Victoria Symphony

More than 125,000 patrons visit the Victoria Symphony annually, with 10,000 of those being children. Of course, everyone knows about their signature summer event, Victoria Symphony Splash, which welcomes tens of thousands of visitors each BC Day long weekend, in Victoria’s inner harbour. The 2010/2011 year also celebrated Victoria Symphony’s Maestra Tania Miller’s eighth season as Music Director, a position that made her the first Canadian woman to be appointed to such a important role. Her vivacity and lively methodology has been the launching point for many improvements with the Victoria Symphony, including unique programming such as the New Currents Festival of Music, the contemporary Odyssey series of collaborative arts and genres, as well as expanded and committed educational programming.

“I play as I feel.” — Oscar Peterson Tania Miller, Music Director, Victoria Symphony

V I C T O R I A S Y M P H O N Y 11 /12 d e C e M b e R – j A N u A RY emily braden

december

9, 10 & 11 A Sentimental Christmas beltone pops

16 & 18 Handel’s Messiah timothy vernon

17 A Christmas Ceilidh with Ashley MacIsaac ashley macisaac

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The Victoria Symphony kicks off its 2011-2012 holiday line up with Sentimental Christmas featuring none other than Emily Braden. A young jazz stylist who has garnered a great deal of attention in recent years, Braden lived in Victoria while studying under Jazz great Louise Rose — a protegé of Duke Ellington and Oscar Peterson. This will be her orchestral debut with the Victoria Symphony. Sentimental Christmas will be headed by principle pop conductor Brian Jackson and will feature Braden lending her vocal talents to holiday favourites such as White Christmas and The Christmas Song. [Dec. 9th, 10th, and 11th at the Royal Theatre] For perhaps one of the greatest choral works ever written, join guest conductor Timothy Vernon as he leads the Victoria Symphony, Vox Humana and the Victoria Festival Chorus in Handel’s Messiah. [Dec. 16th and 18th at the UVic Farquhar Auditorium] Fans of Cape Breton style Celtic music will not want to miss the one night engagement of A Christmas Ceilidh with Ashley MacIsaac at the Royal Theatre. This iconic Canadian fiddler will team up with local guitarist Quinn Bachand for a night of holiday music that is sure to stir your blood. [Dec. 17th at the Royal Theatre] On January 1st the Victoria Symphony will hold its third annual Viennese New Year’s Day Concert. Modelled after the immensely popular New Year’s concert broadcast of the Vienna Symphony Orchestra, which is celebrating its 60th year this year, the Viennese New Year’s Day Concert will feature a lush, romantic bouquet of waltz and songs to ring in 2012. [Jan. 1st at the Royal Theatre] For more information on these or the 2012 concert calendar visit the Victoria Symphony online at victoriasymphony.ca

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| CELEBRITY PROFILE: SANTA CLAUS

CELEBRITY PROFILE: SANTA CLAUS |

Santa’s selfless nature has inspired millions of unofficial helpers, from postal workers to pilots

Celebrity Profile

Santa Claus Kissing Mommy or Stashing Gifts, He Always Delivers – Just in the Nick of Time By Roberto Bernardi

Nothing of the kind. We all know that it’s not what we are waiting for, but whom. All the joy, kindness, and spirit of the Yule are embodied in a singular, mirthful personage who breaks into our houses annually (albeit with the best intentions). As far as charm goes, nobody can hold a candle to Santa Claus.

WINTER 2011

Above all else, Christmas is a time of anticipation: We look forward to it year-round, and the excitement builds with every falling leaf, even an occasional dusting of snow. What we are waiting for, however, is less clear. A well needed break? Quality time spent selflessly with friends and family? Or just a reason to rejoice and indulge in a little eggnog?

| CELEBRITY PROFILE: SANTA CLAUS

When it comes to charm, no one can hold a candle to Santa Claus

The Man, the Legend, the Enigma

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Despite his ubiquity, good old Saint Nick is still shrouded in mystery for the majority of his adoring fans. He has been profiled by countless authors, from L. Frank Baum to David Sedaris, and yet his origins, his habits – even his appearance – are still subject to debate. Our annual visitor has been widely known about for at least 200 years, although his agelessness suggests he pre-dates the stories.

Some say he’s Dutch; others maintain he’s Turkish; still more adhere to the theory that he is British, through and through. A Canadian federal minister even tried to claim, misguidedly, that Santa is a Canadian citizen. Of course, these arguments miss the point: the jolly old elf has

no geo-political inclinations – he belongs to the children of the world. While we don’t know very much for sure about Kris Kringle, we do have some clues. His most widespread moniker, Saint Nicholas, implies a connection with St. Nicholas of Myra, a 4th century saint who exemplified charity to poor children. Another name, Father Christmas, suggests the folk figure of British legend, a bringer of happiness in the dark winter months. His pagan roots include strong associations with Odin, the leader of the Norse gods and related Germanic traditions, who was described as riding an eight-legged horse through the sky (hence, the eight reindeer of Santa Claus – Rudolph came much later).

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| CELEBRITY PROFILE: SANTA CLAUS

lovegood life

Santa Claus is a nuanced man with a

of the

The Paradox It may be obvious by now: Santa Claus is my hero, not only for his generosity, mystery, and aura of magic, but because he is a nuanced man with a love of the good life. His sometimes paradoxical attributes make him all the more real, and all the more impressive for his titanic accomplishments. For instance, he smokes (a pipe), drinks, eats copious amounts of cookies, but his figure never changes and he is never short on energy or vitality. He is always described as an elf, yet he’s larger than life in many ways, including stature (being short, I certainly look up to him). Despite his girth, he manages to squeeze his way in and out of the tightest of situations with charm and grace. He runs a large, complex organization, with a huge staff, working hard under tight deadlines; nonetheless, he is beloved of all his employees, and never faces labour revolts. The debate over just who Santa is rages on, including exactly how to spot him. His now famous red suit with white fur trim and big black boots is, despite the urban legend, not the product of Coca-Cola branding. Still, many say the true Father Christmas wears all green. Some claim he rides a grey or white horse; we know him to fly around the world in a sleigh drawn by magic reindeer. The Dutch figure, Sinterklaas, arrives in the harbour on a boat (although, upon that boat, he is still riding a horse). Considering his growing size, horses around the world are glad the reindeer sleigh model is taking over.

It’s not so much what we are waiting for, it’s whom...

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The Inspiration

No matter what he looks like, Santa is among the greatest of our heroes. He exemplifies charity and generosity, bringing gifts to all our children (the tradition of bringing coal or beatings to badly behaved kids has, thankfully, fallen by the wayside) and expecting nothing in return. His selfless nature has inspired millions of unofficial helpers, from postal employees who volunteer to deliver (and reply to) letters to his headquarters, to pilots who give their time and talents to bring gifts to the families of secluded lighthousekeepers (on behalf of a busy Santa, of course), to Salvation Army Santas who collect much needed support so that the neediest can have a Christmas as well.

Santa Claus, the man and the institution, is more than just a nice guy in a snazzy suit; he is an ever-evolving idea of practicing generosity and spreading good cheer. Over the years, he has inspired children to tackle letter writing (promoting literacy), to leave out carrots and hay – in boots – for reindeer (the source of our stocking tradition, and promoting love of animals), and to receive acknowledgement regardless of action (promoting unconditional acceptance). He’s even been married to the same woman for as long as anyone can remember. Not bad, for an international man of mystery.

CELEBRITY PROFILE: SANTA CLAUS |

Wherever you find yourself this Christmas, you’ll need to know how to address that jolly old elf, in case of a chance meeting under the mistletoe. Here’s a guide for international Yule encounters:

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Canada: Santa Claus United States: Kris Kringle Netherlands: Sinterklaas Great Britain: Father Christmas France: Père Noël Spain: Papa Noel Germany: Christindl Italy: Babbo Natale Sweden: Jultomten Finland: Joulupukki Norway: Julenissen Greece: Hagios Nikolaos Russia: Ded Moroz Romania: Mos Craciun Bulgaria: Babagjyshi i Krishtlindjeve

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Lithuania: Kalèdu Senelis Poland: Gwiazdor Czech Republic: Svatý Mikuláš Hungary: Sveti Nikola Brazil: Papai Noel China: Shengdan Laoren Japan: Santa no ojisan (Uncle Santa)

| Resort Escape: Brentwood Bay Resort & Spa

Did you know?

The town of Brentwood Bay, which is home to the famous Butchart Gardens, was originally named Slugget in the late 1800s, after pioneer settler John Slugget. Renamed in 1925 after the English town Brentwood in the UK County of Essex, which was the home of RM Horne-Payne, the president of the BC Electric Company in the 1920s.

Resort Escape:

Brentwood Bay Resort & Spa The Ultimate in Island Style R&R HLMAGAZINE.COM

By Tracey Drake

Photography for this article provided by Brentwood Bay Resort & Spa and Drake Marketing.

Sometimes you just need to get away from it all and take leave from your everyday life; relax, unwind and get in touch with yourself and reconnect with your partner. For most of us, there just isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t time to squeeze in a vacation. Luckily for Vancouver Islanders, there is a little bit of resort heaven that offers the most perfect getaway vacation. My husband, Steve and I recently escaped to Brentwood Bay Resort & Spa, located in the charming little enclave of Brentwood Bay. Just a short 25 minute drive from downtown Victoria, this picturesque town offers a welcome laid back attitude.

Resort Escape: Brentwood Bay Resort & Spa |

The main lodge is truly spectacular, boasting soaring ceilings, countless windows and an expansive foyer to welcome guests into an ambiance of palpable warmth. From the front doors, you can easily see the reception area, dining room and the pool area beyond. The walls are adorned with artwork by local artists, each adding to the interior aesthetic of Brentwood Bay Resort & Spa. In the main lodge building, there is a lot to take in, but it all works together beautifully. This property is the #1 rated luxury resort in Victoria and the city’s only five star oceanfront hotel resort and spa. Stepping into our guest room, it was immediately evident why. Our one bedroom OceanSuite was special. It was luxurious, but not gaudy. It featured every conceivable amenity but was not over the top. The suite was spacious - with all the necessary uncluttered, breathing room that a true resort retreat should offer - and yet the space was completely cozy. Our perfectly appointed suite featured a separate bedroom with a lofty king sized bed, a living room with handcrafted furniture, dining and work area and a cozy fireplace. Beyond the glass doors, the outdoor patio featured a much appreciated 2-person private hot tub. The private spa bathroom spa bathroom with a jetted tub and a separate body massage shower, bathrobes and slippers, and spa toiletries by Deserving Thyme.

The setting could not be more ideal – the town is charming, the view from the oceanfront suite was breathtaking, the local fare and award winning wines were delectable and the people are oh so friendly

The SeaGrille restaurant in the main lodge was a culinary delight for both dinner and breakfast. The mood in the dining room was tranquil; laid back and very relaxing. After feasting on oysters on the half shell and roasted butternut squash soup with crème fraiche and gruyere cheese, we both enjoyed a main course of pan seared Arctic Char, served with savoy cabbage, oven dried tomatoes, roasted potatoes and a delectable sherry and caper butter. For guests watching carbs and calories, they also offer a delectable selection of Essence of Spa cuisine menu items. Breakfast the next morning was hardy and delicious. Without questions, it would be worth the drive just to indulge in SeaGrille’s Brentwood Benedict with poached free range eggs, spinach, crab cakes and fresh hollandaise sauce. The next morning, we headed to Essence of Life, the hotel’s serene oceanfront spa with an outdoor heated pool, hot tub and aroma garden. A well-appointed day spa (for guests and locals alike) with thoughtfully designed rooms and unique treatments with a west coast point of view. Steve and I indulged in a side-byside massage in the exclusive couples room, followed by an invigorating rain shower for two, and housemade truffles and a glass of wine by the fire in the spa’s Tranquility Lounge.

“Our culinary philosophy is simple…we are passionate about local produce, seafood and wine. A fresh new approach to coastal cuisine.” Brentwood Bay Resort & Spa

WINTER 2011

This striking resort hotel, with its definitive West Coast architectural style, sits back unassumingly from the road. Once on the grounds, the true personality of the property comes to life; interesting architecture blending harmoniously with the amazing nature that surrounds it. The exterior, with its waterfront landscape that slopes down to touch the ocean, is just a hint of the wonders that awaits guests inside the massive front doors.

| Resort Escape: Brentwood Bay Resort & Spa

Luckily for Vancouver Islanders, there is a little bit of resort heaven that offers the most perfect getaway vacation

Brentwood Bay Resort & Spa also offers guests the use of their marina, and an eco-adventure centre

Shhh.. for locals only! Brentwood Bay Resort & Spa offers splendid perks for residents. Essence of Life Spa offers an exclusive Island Time Membership. The annual fee is $100, with members receiving 25% off all treatments and 10% on all spa products for the entire year. After your spa treatment, treat yourself to a locals-only hotel deal. Until March 31, 2012, Brentwood Bay Resort & Spa is offering a special package, Locals Sexy Sleepover. Just $199 for two people – including one night in a beautiful 350 square foot OceanSuite and breakfast in bed. What a treat for Vancouver Islanders who need a mini-break in the midst of the gloomy rainy months. Managing Director Dan Behune says, “Brentwood Bay Resort & Spa has been extremely popular with locals seeking a romantic overnight getaway that is close to home but feels like you’re a million miles away. Our guests love to start the stay off with a signature massage treatment, then fireside seafood & sushi dinner in the spectacular SeaGrille and then after a restful night in a luxurious OceanSuite, finish off with a delicious gourmet breakfast in bed in the morning. That’s what we call a sexy sleepover!”

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Brentwood Bay Resort & Spa is the #1 rated luxury resort in Victoria and the city’s only five star oceanfront hotel resort and spa

Above: H&L’s Managing Editor, Tracey Drake returning to Brentwood Bay Resort & Spa, after an exhilarating two hour kayak eco-adventure

Brentwood Bay Resort & Spa also offers guests the use of their marina, and an eco-adventure centre. The weather was perfect that day – the sun was shining, there was virtually no wind and the waters were calm and glassy. We chose the two hour scenic adventure in a double kayak. It was a wonderful way to finish off the perfect getaway, and after hobnobbing with eagles and harbour seals, we headed back to the hustle and bustle of city life – agreeing wholeheartedly it was the most genuine R&R we had experienced in a good long while.

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| Creekside at Corfield in Parksville

Creekside at Corfield in Parksville Impressive Mid-Island Development Offers Affordable, Attainable, Sustainable Home Ownership By Ben Vorst We all have a dream home, and increasingly that home leaves a small environmental footprint. Easy to dream about, but not so easy to build without draining savings or sacrificing comfort – or is it? A new development in a beautiful coastal setting is defying that theory - building sustainable, manageable living spaces in one of the most breathtaking natural areas on Vancouver Island. Creekside at Corfield is a townhouse strata project just a stone’s throw from downtown Parksville, and within striking distance of world-class hiking, kayaking, golf, sailing, fishing and more. As if this wasn’t enough of an attraction, green building and maintenance techniques have been in the works from the get-go. It’s something that John Cooper, Sales Manager for Corfield Developments, believes has benefits for the environment and residents alike.

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“We’ve managed to incorporate a lot of green features that haven’t meant an increase on the bottom line,” he says. “When you do it at the base level, the construction level, you can do a lot of really positive things without having to raise the price of the units.”

One of those positive things is spring-fed ponds, with a waterfall, helped by the collection of rainwater from the roofs of the townhouses. The pond water is then used to irrigate the area’s green spaces. “They’ve done that, obviously, because it’s green but also to keep the strata

fees low – we’re not using treated city water to pour into the dirt,” Cooper continued. “Everyone wants to be green as long as it doesn’t cost them any more, and that’s the case here.” The green benefits don’t end there: each townhouse has an Energuide Rating over 80, meaning it achieved Gold Standard efficiency benchmarks. This translates into much lower utility bills (Cooper estimates $500 Hydro and $1200-1800 natural gas charges annually), as well as a clear environmental conscience; the economical factor is important to some of the buyers who are down-sizing from single-family homes and, therefore, have fixed incomes. While retirees make up a good proportion of the current residents (as well as single professionals), there is no age restriction at Creekside. Buyers have a choice of four different floor plans, with square footage ranging from 1330 to 1520, and each unit includes a two-car garage. The goal has been to provide an experience similar to owning a house, but without the hassles of maintenance: the strata fees cover all of the upkeep costs, year-round. “A lot of our purchasers have second homes in Arizona or Palm Springs,” says Cooper. “They leave for the winter, come back for the summer, and it’s just like they left it.” At press time, Phase I was sold out, Phase II was 70% sold, and Phase III was under construction and open for sale.

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| H&L’s Auto Showcase

H&L’s

Auto Showcase

Above: G37 Coupe. Below L-R: G Sedan, G Coupe, and the G Convertible. Photos provided by Campus Infiniti.

Harnessing the G Force Infiniti’s Popular G Series Sets the Standard for High Performance & Ultimate Comfort By Ben Vorst Luxury auto enthusiasts on Vancouver Island have continued to exhibit their taste for excellence, challenging Campus Infiniti to keep up with the heavy demand for the brand’s popular G series.

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The line, which includes the G Sedan, G Coupe, Infiniti Performance Line (IPL) G Coupe, and the G Convertible, is popular across the country, but here on the West coast, strong sales reflect the island’s insistence for the crème-de-la-crème of luxury vehicles.

The Infiniti G Series continues to offer even more comforts & conveniences for an unparalled driving experience. A few of the many alluring features available include intelligent all-wheel drive, All-Around View (cameras and sensors to aid parking), NavTraffic, XM Satellite radio capability, 9.3 GB Music Box hard drive, aniline leather

seats, individual climate control, Bluetooth capability, keyless entry, and push button ignition, as well as the Infiniti Controller system (with 7-inch display) for easy adjustment of all audio, temperature, fuel economy, and comfort settings. Many of these features are now standard, reflecting the highest level of luxury that Infiniti clientele have come to expect from the automaker. All this on top of the industry leading design standards and superior performance that Infiniti prides itself on, and it’s easy to see why more and more islanders are choosing the G Series: a passion for elegance, excellence, and the good life is what brings and keeps us out here… we might as well have the wheels to match. The Infiniti G Series is the perfect marriage of performance and artistry you can truly feel. Please contact Campus Infinity for a guest drive today. 1.866.771.2003

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WINTER 2011

On behalf of Palladian, we wish you and yours a happy, healthy holiday!

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| DREAMING OF A WHITE CHRISTMAS

DREAMING OF A WHITE CHRISTMAS |

DIY TOOLKIT

Dreaming of a

White Christmas Holiday décor that is whimsically white and an unexpected delight By Lana Stokes

Especially on the West Coast, who hasn’t grown up “dreaming of a white Christmas”? If your secret santa wish this year is to bring a little white and wonderful to your home’s festive decor, H&L would like to share a few simple ways to create your own Winter Wonderland this holiday season. Straight from the H&L Design DIY files, let us help you find ways to decorate with white, without having to dip into your savings! There are several “do-it-yourself ” ways to reinvent existing decorations or incorporate nature into your Winter Wonderland holiday scheme.

Collect sprigs, twigs leaves, pine cones and even old bird nests from your yard or a nearby park and spray paint them with white aerosol spray (retails for about $5 at any hardware store). Once the spray has dried, have fun creating your own unique decorations. With very little money and a lot of imagination, you will be amazed at how quickly and easily you can make a remarkable garland, centrepiece or wreath and enjoy the smell of pine all through the holiday season. Carry that theme throughout your holiday room; spray the tips of your Christmas tree to create the effect of freshly fallen snow.

Do It Yourself TIPS: 1. Don’t underestimate the power of tealights and votives. They look amazing everywhere! 2. Christmas ornaments in glass vases and jars, spread all over your Christmas table, is an unexpected way to jazz up holiday décor. 3. A can of white spray paint is the perfect start in creating your Winter Wonderland. 4. Splashes of metallic gold and silver is the perfect way to break up an all-white décor theme, without distracting from the decorating theme.

WINTER 2011

Transform old Christmas balls by painting them in the same winter white colour; metallic gold or silver also works well for a dramatic effect. Pick up a tube of metallic paint and create your own gold or silver design over the white for even more drama. Simply place the balls within your pine sprig creations. You will love the effect it creates! If painting is not your forte, local dollar or craft stores often carry plain Christmas balls. Fill clear vases with the balls, add strings of mardi gras beads or white pearls, and place them all throughout your home, for an urban chic meets homey homemade effect.

| DREAMING OF A WHITE CHRISTMAS

White, mixed with classic elements of metallic and glass, makes for a decidely modern yet elegant approach to holiday decorating. For added pop, choose one single colour for accessories, used in moderation.

Colour in holiday décor has long been the accepted norm but when done right, there is nothing more magical...

than white!

3 HLMAGAZINE.COM

In keeping with the winter wonderland theme, adorn your Christmas tree with snowy white balls, beads, ribbons and lights. Choose one gift wrap style, and wrap all of your gifts with it. For an eco take on a classic wrapping scheme, wrap each present in brown packing paper and trim with raffia for ribbon, and plain white gift tags. Match the tree above to the gift wrapping below by tying cheerful raffia bows around the branches of your Christmas tree.

This year, steer away from traditional multicoloured lights, miscellaneous decorations and tinsel, and spring for a contemporary, white décor theme. From the H&L Design DIY files to your home, here’s wishing you a white Christmas. Happy Holidays!

H&L’s Christmas tree contest |

Want Your Christmas Tree Featured in Homes & Living Magazine? A well dressed Christmas tree can be a work of art. Indeed, it is a thing of seasonal beauty that sets the tone for the holiday themed interior design in the rest of the home. It is the empress of the holiday home; guarding the brightly wrapped presents beneath its bows, and is decorated by friends and family, with love, care and holiday cheer.

Do you think your 2011 christmas tree is stunning, elegant, family friendly, unique or just downright funky? Share it with H&L readers! Send a high resolution jpg photograph of your Christmas Tree to editor@hlmagazine.com on or before December 31, 2011 and be entered into the H&L Holiday Tree Contest. In the body of your email, please include your full name, city, telephone number, and email address. Please also tell us which category you are submitting an entry for.

1 winning tree from each of the following 3 categories will be chosen for publication:

(1) formal and elegant (2) family fun (3) whimsical and funky

Three winning photos, one from each category, and the winners name(s) will be printed in a special contest segment in the February/March issue of Homes & Living magazine.

Love this Christmas tree? Jane Lockhart shows you how to achieve this look for your 2011 holiday tree on page 38 (photo credit: Jane Lockhart Interior Design)

NEW VICTORIA SHOWROOM REFLECTS A CLEAR DEDICATION TO STYLE AND UNAPOLOGETIC INDULGENCE

Buying a new car, especially a luxury model, is about pampering and rewarding yourself… so why should it involve standing out in the middle of a chilly, rainy lot? It shouldn’t! The team at Campus Infiniti in Victoria agrees, which is why they built a gorgeous new showroom and sales centre that makes purchasing a performance automobile as comfortable as a visit to the spa.

The complex’s courtesy lounge - complete with entertainment, internet, and refreshments - makes a trip to the dealership more like visiting friends. It’s an important aspect of a business founded on building lasting relationships with customers, encouraging them to stop in at any time, for maintenance or just for a cup of coffee. There’s even an easy-to-use, drive through service centre and a ‘delivery area’, worthy of an upscale art gallery, where new owners can explore all the features of their precious purchase with the friendly guidance of the Infiniti team. Inspired performance, indeed.

Campus Infiniti | 3371 Oak Street, Victoria | 250.475.1148 Monday – Thursday 8:30 am – 7:00 pm | Friday – Saturday 8:30am – 6:00 pm

WINTER 2011

Conveniently nestled at 3371 Oak St. (between Cloverdale Ave. and Saanich Rd.), the new 9000+ square foot complex exudes the sophistication of the Infiniti brand: the exterior boasts attractive etched glass frontage, creating a waterfall effect; the interior incorporates slate tile & wood floors, the charm of muted colors and natural light; and the high ceilings and open air concept leave prospective clients feeling free to roam around and peruse pressure-free.

| Safe Winter Driving

One thing we can all be sure of is that we’ll be running around until the last minute this holiday season. Gifts to pick up, parties to attend, dinners to shop for – the list of commitments seems to loom larger every year. Using a heavy foot on the gas as an antidote for procrastination can be tempting – until we remember that the reason we race is to have more time with our loved ones, and that speed on winter roads can mean a ruined holiday for everyone. Accident rates skyrocket every winter (December sees the highest crash rates), a fact we often attribute to less-than-ideal road conditions. There’s no doubt that icy roads, heavy fog, and early dusks contribute to the heavy human toll paid by motorists, but they all share a curious attribute: safe speed tends to neutralize their destructive power. Especially on the island’s winding, hilly roadways, relaxing on the accelerator will equal a safe arrival at your holiday destination.

ICBC advises that drivers slow down on wet roads and increase following distance to at least four seconds Equally important is the awareness that nothing kills the seasonal spirit faster than a joyride after a few eggnogs. Navigating potholes and black ice is hard at the best of times; doing it while tipsy is just plain stupid. B.C. continues to suffer from high rates of impaired driving, a trend that is amplified with the numerous Christmas parties we love so much, and it’s worth reminding ourselves of a few facts around driving drunk:

1. A big Christmas dinner will soak up the alcohol – Not true. While eating with your drinks is a good idea, drivers who have reached the legal blood-alcohol limit (.05) need several hours before they can drive. Neither coffee nor fresh air speed up the sobering process.

2. It’s Christmas: there’s nobody out on the roads, anyways – While traffic rates do decline during the holidays, the drivers who are on the road are (statistically) less sober and, therefore, slower to react to driving complications. There are also many more children in cars and near roadways. 3. I’ve only had a few – No amount of alcohol is safe when you’re

HLMAGAZINE.COM

Safe Winter Driving

Getting Home Safely This Holiday is the Best Gift By Ben Vorst

driving; reaction times are crucial to avoiding accidents, especially in winter. B.C. has some of the most stringent laws on the books: fines, seizures or jail time are almost a certainty when you’re caught.

Driving at a speed of 110k, it takes 126 metres to come to a complete stop What could be worse than going through the holidays with a suspended license, no vehicle, and a hefty fine to pay? Not much, except maybe spending Christmas without a loved one because of poor planning and irresponsible driving. Give your family the best possible gift this holiday season – drive carefully, drive sober and make it home safe and sound.

From Our Family to Yours... Best Wishes for a Safe and Happy Holiday Season

866- 606 - 3223

viic . c a

WINTER 2011

14 Convenient Island Locations and 24/7 Claims Service to Serve You Better

| The Modern Wedding

The Modern

Wedding A Contemporary Look at Happily Ever After

By Tracey Drake

Back in the fall of this year, the team at Homes & Living magazine were honoured to witness one of our own, Lana McKinnon marry her soul mate, Chase Stokes. It was an evening affair on a beautiful autumn day at the Sea Cider Farm and Ciderhouse in Saanichton, on the spectacular peninsula of southern Vancouver Island. This fairy-tale occasion was attended by many of Lana and Chase’s friends, family, well wishers and co-workers. As the evening began, the ceremony finished and the reception progressed well into the night, it struck me that it was possible to have a modern wedding without sacrificing all the sweet nuances of a traditional affair. Although our magazine doesn’t often indulge in topics such as romance and marriage, to my mind it is a significant part of ‘home’ – after all, isn’t that where happily ever after begins?

HLMAGAZINE.COM

To read the full version of this article, visit HLMagazine. com. Learn how to successfully blend traditional and modern into your wedding day, and find out about a few great places on Vancouver Island to say ‘I do’ or host a wedding reception.

Marisa Savegnago Photography marisasavegnago.com

It might be easier than you think to mix contemporary with traditional on your wedding day.

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Where space is limited it can serve as a dining table for up to 6 people. With its clever storage capabilities and reversible top it also makes an excellent serving table. Available at ScanDesigns 1711 Bowen Road, Nanaimo 250.753.6361 661 McCallum Road, Victoria 250.475.2233 scandesigns.com

2. theo loves you Theo eyewear feature handmade frames in Belgium. With unique styles and fashionable frames Theo is setting the benchmark for contemporary eyewear. Theo loves you and you will love Theo! Available at Maycock Eyecare Country Club Centre, 17-3200 N. Island Hwy, Nanaimo 250.758.4175 maycockeyecare.com

3. LED Steplights The Next Generation in Steplights: LED technology by CSL for interior or exterior use. Ideal for step and wall applications, these 3 watt steplights come with a 4 year warranty and are wet location rated. In addition to being low profile, high efficiency and die cast aluminium, these steplights fit over a standard switch box. Available at Mclaren Lighting 2520A Bowen Road, Nanaimo 250.758.0138 mclarenlighting.com

4. space saver Nuovoliola transformable sofa/queen-size bed from Resource Furniture. “The ultimate 2-fer!” Resource Furniture - Space Reinvented, with showrooms in Victoria and Vancouver. Available at Resource Furniture 444 William Street, Victoria 250-381-8824 ResourceFurniture.com

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Available at City Tile Visit the new City Tile showroom! Over 12,000 square feet of tile from around the world! Vancouver Island’s largest tile selection. 4337 Boban Drive, Nanaimo 866.729.9766 citytile.ca

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| ORAL hygiene

Dental Professionals Give Back at Christmas and Year Round A Community that Broke the CODE to Assist Those in Need

HLMAGAZINE.COM

By Dr. Heather Chisholm

In my busy Nanaimo Dental Practice, I see emergency patients regularly, adults and children alike. A dental problem left untreated can become an emergency and cause severe infection and pain. Dental pain is terrible, some of the worst pains that exist. People will arrive at my office in absolute misery and will do almost anything to make the pain go away. When I take them out of pain, people are so happy and relieved but all too often, I see other problems in their mouth that they canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t afford to fix. I know that they will be back in my office in pain again for more urgent emergency care, at some point in the future. It is especially distressing to me when it is a child with urgent dental problems that cannot access dental care. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a harsh reality that here in the Nanaimo area, there are many people who, due to economic circumstances, cannot afford regular dental

care. Many find themselves in severe dental pain unable to afford to see a dentist to alleviate the pain. For people on social assistance, government dental plans only cover about 68% of the fees that dentists charge. Patients must make up the difference. This is often prohibitive for people on low incomes, so they just suffer. In the fall of 2009, a group of generous individuals and concerned groups from our community came together to determine how best to offer dental care to that portion of the community that goes without. They obtained space downtown, donated equipment, supplies and labour. After 2 years, the CODE clinic came to be. CODE, COmmunity DEntal, is a Not for Profit Dental Clinic in downtown Nanaimo which opened October 7, 2011. It operates with volunteer dentists, hygienists, assistants and other professionals from the community. The

emphasis is on emergency dental care and relief of pain. Patients on government assistance will be covered, or patients will be asked to cover the costs of their treatment by making a donation to the clinic. This is the only not for profit community dental clinic north of Victoria and will certainly help many people. I am excited to be offering my dental services in the New Year. As Christmas approaches, I encourage the more privileged among us to remember those who perhaps are less fortunate. If you are interested in donating or finding out more about the Nanaimo CODE clinic, call or email volunteer Nanaimo phone 250-758-7121, email vn@volunteernanaimo.ca or visit the CODE clinic at 489 Wallace St, Nanaimo. I wish everyone a wonderful and peaceful Christmas! Smile

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WINTER 2011

Tel: 250.754.2288 | Toll Free: 1.800.665.2833 | 241 Selby St, Nanaimo

| HEALTH & WELLNESS

A Plan to Combat the Holiday Belly Bulge Stay healthy without sacrificing time spent with friends and family By Kyle Kolkman

HLMAGAZINE.COM

Gaining weight stems from two factors: inactivity and improper eating. During the winter months, and most especially over the holidays, a combination of not enough exercise and overeating lead to weight gain and poor health.

Let’s starts with eating because we all like to do it – especially at Christmastime - and how you eat is 60% of the battle of losing or maintining a healthy weight. Portion control is also very important, not just at the holiday dinner table but all year round. Each time you sit down to eat, remember that a proper portion is about the size of your fist. This goes for meat and the rest of the filler in your meals like pasta and rice. If you are serious about keeping the weight off this season, fill your plate with green vegetables and limit the pasta, potatoes and sauces.

Eating doesn’t have to be our holiday nemesis This season, only eat until you’re comfortable and not until you are over stuffed. Instead of eating two big meals a day, strive for five or six smaller portioned meals, every three hours. Pass on the chocolates, cakes, cookies and other holiday goodies whenever you can. Instead, head to the veggie tray and nibble on healthy snacks. As the colder, rainier weather sets in, we all become less active. Buck that trend this year! There are plenty of fun single, group and family activities to do throughout the winter months. Local recreation centres and community pools offer affordable classes, pubic skates and swims. There are many different indoor sports clubs you can join or try indoor soccer, gymnastics, shinny hockey, racquet ball or join a mixed martial art club.

Whatever your budget or interest level, just make it a goal to keep your body moving If you need help, trust a professional. Hiring a personal trainer is the best Christmas gift you can give yourself (or someone you love). A trainer can help set up a sensible eating and exercise regime, and if necessary assist with establishing weight loss goals and lifestyle changes. A fitness professional also helps with motivation so you can achieve goals faster. Whatever you decide, remember to include sensible eating and physical activity in your holiday planning this year. About the author: Kyle Kolkman is a personal trainer and owner of Adonis Body Sculpting. Kyle works with clients of all ages and walks of life to achieve and maintain optimal physical health. Learn more online at adonisbodysculpting.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS |

How you eat is 60% of the battle of losing or maintining a healthy weight this holiday season Kyle’s Top Tips for a Healthy Holiday Season: Never go to parties hungry: It is always easier to control what you eat at home, and if you leave your house with a full tummy, you will eat less at the party. While at the festivities, eat slowly so that you enjoy the food but are not overeating. A few great tips are to chew each bite 7-10 times before swallowing, and drink 8-16 ounces, thirty minutes before eating.

Black Rock - H&L Mag Ad 2011 Size: 5.1875” (w) x 7.2188” (h) • REV 1 • Oct 04/11

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Watch portion size: It is the holidays so indulge a little. Use a smaller plate and treat yourself, but don’t go overboard! Go for small portions. For appetizers, it can be difficult to gauge how much you are eating, so sample in moderation. Drink lots of water: Drinking plenty of water will help combat the dehydration caused by alcohol and salty foods. Water can also helps to curb your appetite and keep you feeling full longer. Choose low cal alcohol options: Of course, you will want to have few drinks over the holidays. Beer and cream based liquors are very high in calories. Instead, try light beer, dry wine or spirits mixed with diet soda. Keep in mind that the empty calories in alcoholic beverages go straight to the belly.

Physical activity: Enjoy the company of friends and family by going for a nice, brisk walk after a big holiday meal. A good rule of thumb is to get at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise for each large meal you consume over the holidays.

black rock style Escape to Black Rock Oceanfront Resort, a magical location on British Columbia’s wild west coast. Ask about our Storm Warming package.

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WINTER 2011

Throw out or donate leftovers: A fridge stuffed with high calorie leftovers is a diet train wreck, waiting to happen. Instead, thow away leftovers or give them to a family member to take home. If you have a lot of pantry, dry items and canned goods left over after the holidays, donate it all to the food bank or a local shelter.

hotel | restaurant | spa

| H&L’s web exclusive

H&L’s

(an extra bonus for our magazine readers!)

web exclusive

Found only at hlmagazine.com Homes & Living magazine has a newly designed website that is chocked full of ideas, tips and helpful articles for homeowners. Take a look at these great articles that are not in the magazine, and can only be read online at HLMAGAZINE.COM

HOMES Web Exclusive Article… Home Safety Tips for Holiday Decorating If you’re familiar with the film National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, you might remember the scene where bumbling Clark Griswold is up a ladder, innocently stringing Christmas lights along the eaves of his home, when he errantly staples his sleeve to his house. Fast forward a few moments and the ladder is nowhere to be seen and Clark is dangling by the string of his sleeve. Having the perfect decorations is a big part of any successful holiday celebrations, but it’s one should never forget safety and smart practices when decorating their homes, both inside and outside. Clark could have used a helping hand to hold the ladder, and with just a small bit of foresight, you can easily avoid falling into a similar predicament. Read the full article online at HLMagazine.com

TRAVEL Web Exclusive Article… Travel 2012: A Look at Hot Vancouver Island Vacation Spots for a Winter Getaway Vancouver Island is a popular vacationing spot in the height of summer. It’s home to beautiful sandy beaches, endless hiking trails, cute Bed & Breakfasts, the best diving in the world and so much more. But did you know that Victoria and Vancouver Island are also one of the best winter vacation spots in all of Canada? We asked the staff at Homes & Living Magazine to gather together some of their favourite Vancouver Island travel destinations for winter fun and the answers are sure to keep you busy until Spring! Read the full article online at HLMagazine.com

LIVING Web Exclusive Article… Dreading Christmas Shopping Alone? Plan a Holiday Shopping Party It’s three days before Christmas and you haven’t started shopping. Your list is long, your in-laws are finicky and the mall is swarming with other late shoppers. No one likes to brave the mall alone, especially with the Holidays in full swing, so what do you do? Plan a Holiday Shopping Party, of course!

HLMAGAZINE.COM

We have some fun ideas for how you and your friends can accomplish all of your Holiday shopping goals while having fun at the same time. Read the full article online at HLMagazine.com

hlmagazine.com

Express your own style with personalized, custom made furniture that is affordable and uniquely your own.

Hundreds of fabrics to choose from!

WINTER 2011

Many great selections on sale now!

RENOVATION & DESIGN DIRECTORY The companies showcased in Homes & Living magazine have been highlighted. You can download their brochure and directly link to their website at HLMAGAZINE.COM!

APPLIANCES

Coast Wholesale Appliances 250-758-4044 #10-4151 Mostar Rd, Nanaimo coastappliances.com Erickson Furniture & Appliance Duncan 250-748-2511 Goldline Quality Appliances Nanaimo 250-729-7988

HLMAGAZINE.COM

ART GALLERIES

Art 10 Gallery Nanaimo 250-753-4009 Artisans’ Studio Nanaimo 250-753-6151 Bastion Gallery Nanaimo 250-754-1744 Centre for the Arts Nanaimo 250-754-2264 Gallery 223 Nanaimo 250-741-1188 Creekside Studio & Gallery Qualicum 250-752-0395 Englishman River Gallery Parksville 250-248-7372 Hills’ Native Art Nanaimo 250-755-7873 Nanaimo Art Gallery Nanaimo 250-740-6350 Old School House Gallery & Art Centre Qualicum 250-752-6133

Fenceline Products Parksville 250-248-3122 Mid Island Fence Products Nanaimo 250-741-1450 Shar-Kare Feed & Fence Supply Nanaimo 250-758-0212 Weather-Wise Industries Parksville 250-248-9261

FIREPLACES

Pioneer Fireplace Nanaimo 250-753-2353 Sears Installed Fireplaces Nanaimo 250-756-4111 Torry&Son’s Plumbing & Heating Nanaimo 250-751-7863

BEDS - MATTRESS & BEDDING

BUILDING SUPPLY STORES

CLOSET AND GARAGE ORGANIZERS

Coast Closets Parksville 250-248-4191 The Finishing Store 250-756-1231 4128 Mostar Road #5 Nanaimo finishingstore.com WestCoast Shutters · Blinds · Closets 250-933-0033 #2-6332 Metral Drive, Nanaimo www.westcoastsbc.com

FLOORING

Hardwood, Tile, Stone & Other

City Tile 1-866-729-9766 4337 Boban Drive, Nanaimo citytile.ca Cornerstone Tile Nanaimo 250-756-9996 The Finishing Store 250-756-1231 4128 Mostar Road #5 Nanaimo finishingstore.com Floors For Less Nanaimo 250-758-6969 Hartmann & Company Nanaimo 250-754-2288 241 Selby Street Nanaimo hartmannandcompany.com Jordans Floor Coverings 250-758-0181 4890 Rutherford Road Nanaimo jordans.ca United Carpet unitedcarpet.com Parksville 4-287 Martindale Rd 250-248-4664 Duncan, 101 – 2700 Beverly St, 250-746-4851 Valley Carpet One Floor and Home 250-748-2581 230 Kenneth St, Duncan, BC valleycarpetoneduncan.com Wingren Floors Nanaimo 250-758-3914

FURNACES & HEATING

Airwest Heating & Gas Nanaimo 250-754-3208 Blue Flame Sales Nanaimo 250-758-8770 Coastal Energy Nanaimo 250-268-4328 Columbia Fuels Nanaimo 250-751-2000 Comfort Group Heating Nanaimo 250-758-8224 Torry&Son’s Plumbing & Heating Nanaimo 250-751-7863 Westcore Industries Nanaimo 250-758-5388 Couch Potato 250-753-8900 1711 Bowen Rd, Nanaimo Cricket on the Hearth Nanaimo 250-713-6519 Erickson Furniture & Appliance Duncan 250-748-2511 Flying Fish Nanaimo 250-754-2104 Hartmann & Company Nanaimo 250-754-2288 241 Selby Street Nanaimo hartmannandcompany.com Scan Designs 250-753-6361 1711 Bowen Rd, Nanaimo scandesigns.com Smithford’s Qualicum Beach 250-752-3400 Westcoast Solid Wood Furnishings 250-756-7707 5140 Metral Dr, Nanaimo westcoastfurnishings.ca The Wickertree Duncan 250-748-1100 Nanaimo 250-729-0309

HOME & BUILDING INSPECTIONS

All In One Home Inspections Ltd 1-877-248-3654 Amerispec Home Inspections 250-755-5157 Envision Home Inspections Nanaimo 250-729-6509 Pillar To Post Professional Home Inspection Nanaimo 250-754-3633 Platinum Inspection Services Nanaimo 250-739-1016

HOME BUILDERS & RENOVATORS

Alair Homes 250-754-5500 101-1930 Island Diesel Way, Nanaimo alairhomes.com Bayshore Construction 250-248-6722 Box 781 Parksville bayshoreconstruction.ca Ben Labbe Construction Comox 250-339-7323 Carlson G W Construction Nanaimo 250-753-6481 Collins Custom Contracting Nanoose Bay 250-468-9930 Colwood Homes Nanaimo 250-756-4044 Complete Window Services 1-888-842-5959 1176 Franklin’s Gull Road, Parksville completewindowservices.com D. Bollinger Contracting Nanaimo 250-714-5278 Georgia View Homes Nanaimo 250-716-9386 Dogwood Mountain Homes 250-390-0317 6230 Garside Road, Nanaimo dogwoodmountainhomes.com G Martin Custom Builders Ltd. 250-390-3987 6537 Doumont Road, Nanaimo martincustombuilders.ca Hartmann & Company Nanaimo 250-754-2288 241 Selby Street Nanaimo hartmannandcompany.com Lyons & Noble Developments Parksville 250-468-2339 MJ Chahley Construction Nanaimo 250-758-4163 Palladian Homes 1-866-760-0058 Site 404, #1-5765 Turner Rd, Nanaimo palladianhomes.ca palladian.ca Richardson Homes Nanaimo 250-755-6684 VI Modular Homes Chemainus 250-324-2288 Westmark Construction 250-729-7540 #1-2535 McCullough Road, Nanaimo westmarkconstruction.ca CA Design Qualicum Beach 250-752-2222

HOT TUBS & SAUNAS

Calais Spas & Billiards Nanaimo 1-800-991-3199 Natural Health Path Saunas Nanaimo 1-888-740-0264 Orca Spas Parksville 1-800-663-7727 Pioneer Pool & Spa Nanaimo 250-753-6344 Spa Bound Pools & Spas Nanaimo 1-888-434-SPAS (7727)

INSURANCE

Vancouver Island Insurance Centres Nanaimo #601 – 5800 Turner Rd. 250 751 2966 Ladysmith #15–370 Trans Can. Hwy 250-245-8022 Parksville 146 Alberni Hwy. 250 248 3229 Qualicum Beach #104-661 Primrose St. 250 752 6961 viic.ca

FURNITURE

CARPET & RUGS

Castle Carpet One Parksville 250-248-8200 End of the Roll Nanaimo 250-756-4944 The Floor Store Parksville 250-954-3640 Hartmann & Company Nanaimo 250-754-2288 241 Selby Street Nanaimo hartmannandcompany.com Jordans Floor Coverings 250-758-0181 4890 Rutherford Road Nanaimo jordans.ca United Carpet unitedcarpet.com Parksville 4-287 Martindale Rd 250-248-4664 Duncan, 101 – 2700 Beverly St, 250-746-4851 Valley Carpet One Floor and Home 250-748-2581 230 Kenneth St, Duncan, BC valleycarpetoneduncan.com

FENCING

Eurodown Quilts & Pillows Nanaimo 250-390-4841 John Day’s The Foam Guy Nanaimo 250-668-0600 Gary Interiors Duncan 250-746-9901 Hartmann & Company Nanaimo 250-754-2288 Scan Designs 250-753-6361 1711 Bowen Rd, Nanaimo scandesigns.com Sleep Country Canada Nanaimo 250-390-2733 Twilight Wall Beds 250-586-5554 30-1485 Huntley Rd., Parksville twilightwallbeds.ca Albertson’s Ace Building Centre Parksville 250-248-6888 Central Builders’ Supply Parksville 250-752-5565 Demxx Deconstruction Coombs 250-954-0296 Habitat Restore Nanaimo 250-758-8743 Rona Nanaimo 1250 Island Hwy. S. 250-734-4450 Duncan 2945 Green Road 250-746-4456 Cobble Hill 3730 Trans.Can. Hwy 250-743-7573 Slegg Lumber Lantzville 250-390-1207 Nanaimo 250-758-8329 Windsor Plywood Parksville 250-758-5122

ELECTRIC CONTRACTORS

Den Mar Electric Nanaimo 250-758-8464 Houle Electric Nanaimo 250-758-3011 Mazzei Electric Nanaimo 250-751-1727 Wenner Electric Nanaimo 250-758-2231

INTERIOR DESIGNERS

Deirdre Love Interior Design Nanaimo 250-758-9810 Designworks Nanaimo 250-390-9246 Details Interiors Qualicum Beach 250-752-2467 E J Interior Design Nanaimo 250-754-8858 Inspired Interiors Parksville 250-248-2775 Interior Design Group Nanaimo 250-751-0922 JBD Design Group Nanaimo 250-756-4646 Unique Interiors 250-748-0747 1151 Osprey Drive, Duncan uniqueinteriors.ca Legacy Interiors Inc. Nanaimo 250-756-8599 FD and Interiors 357 5th Street Courtenay 250-338-8022 fdinteriors.com

KITCHEN & BATH CABINETS

Concepts Kitchen & Bath Nanaimo 250-756-4001 Dana Cabinets Nanaimo 250-758-6141 Hartmann & Company Nanaimo 250-754-2288 241 Selby Street Nanaimo hartmannandcompany.com Lonewolf Kitchen & Bath Nanaimo 250-758-4930 Mid-Island Cabinets 250-954-1789 975 Price Road, Parksville midislandcabinets.com

SIDING

Gentek Building Products Nanaimo 250-751-1553 K2 Stone 1-866-722-2420 930 Maughan Rd, Nanaimo k2stone.ca Kaycan Nanaimo 250-756-9330 Roads Pro Exteriors Central Island 250-739-3893 Weather-Wise Industries Parksville 1-866-248-9261

KITCHEN & BATH COUNTERTOPS

ArtisStone Creative Stone Products Qualicum Beach 250-752-4650 Colonial Countertops 250-758-5132 #2-4115 Mostar Road, Nanaimo colonialcountertops.com Counter Measures Parksville 250-586-0065 Liquid Stone Studios Ladysmith 250-619-9760 Matrix Marble & Stone 250-746-7257 2890 Allenby Rd, Duncan matrixmarble.com Timeless Stone & Granite Parksville 250-947-9620 Pigranite (250) 758-7731 pigranite.ca 2100 Northfield Road, Nanaimo

SUNDECKS

Distinctive Deck & Rail Nanaimo 250-756-1147 Island Sundecks Nanoose Bay 250-468-1715 Weatherdek Nanaimo 250-755-3027

WINDOW COVERINGS

Budget Blinds Nanaimo 1-888-377-9652 Enzo Interiors Nanaimo 250-758-3381 Gary Interiors Duncan 250-746-9901 Hartmann & Company Nanaimo 250-754-2288 241 Selby Street Nanaimo hartmannandcompany.com Island Interiors Nanaimo 250-756-0312 The Window Dresser Draperies & Interiors Qualicum Beach 250-752-5000 United Carpet unitedcarpet.com Parksville 4-287 Martindale Rd 250-248-4664 Duncan, 101 – 2700 Beverly St, 250-746-4851 WestCoast Shutters · Blinds · Closets 250-933-0033 #2-6332 Metral Drive, Nanaimo westcoastsbc.com Chelsea Window Fashions 250-468-5373 3502 Carmichael Rd, Nanoose Bay New Image Interiors 250-758-1244 1612 Northfield Rd, Nanaimo Unique Interiors 250-748-0747 1151 Osprey Drive, Duncan uniqueinteriors.ca Valley Carpet One Floor and Home 250-748-2581 230 Kenneth St, Duncan, BC valleycarpetoneduncan.com

KITCHEN & BATH FIXTURES

Bartle & Gibson Nanaimo 250-758-1771 Kitchen & Bath Classics Nanaimo 250-751-7584 Griffiths Homes Plumbing Centre Duncan 250-746-4534 Splashes Bath & Kitchen Centre Nanaimo 250 758-7383 Parksville 250 951-9997

LANDSCAPING

Alpha Landscape Contractors Nanaimo 250-756-4311 ArtisStone Creative Stone Products Qualicum 250-752-4650 Green Thumb Garden Centre Nanaimo 250-758-0944 MacKay Precast Products Nanaimo 250-758-3412 Mystical Images Landscaping Nanaimo 250-756-9974 Somerset Landscaping Nanaimo 250-758-6778 Stonescape Contracting Nanaimo 250-758-8468 Turf Tek Nanaimo 250-616-3175

LIGHTING FIXTURES

Hartmann & Company Nanaimo 250-754-2288 241 Selby Street Nanaimo hartmannandcompany.com McLaren Lighting 1-800-665-4448 2520 Bowen Road, Nanaimo mclarenlighting.com Scan Designs 250-753-6361 1711 Bowen Road, Nanaimo scandesigns.com Illuminations Lighting Solutions 250-384-9359 2885 Quesnel Street Victoria illuminationsbc.com

PAINTERSCloverdale Paint Central Painting & Decorating Lantzville 250-390-4407 Decor Painting Nanaimo 250-618-2766 Don Larsen Painting Parksville 250-816-6058 Heritage Painters Nanaimo 250-754-2007 Riverside Painting Nanaimo 250-619-7317 Seddon Bill & Son Nanaimo 250-758-8044

PATIO FURNITURE & ACCESSORIES Jackson Grills Duncan 250-715-0820 The Wickertree Duncan 250-748-1100 Home & Patio Gallery Victoria 250-385-9112 The Teak Tree Nanaimo 250-755-3031

REALTORS

Ohs & McLane (at Royal Lepage) 250-752-2133 679 Memorial Avenue, Qualicum Beach www.OhsMclane.com John Cooper / Ocean ReMax 1-866-956-6228 101 – 235 Bastion St. Nanaimo islandlifestyle.ca RE/MAX First Realty 250-248-1071 21-826 West Island Hwy Parksville remax-first-bc.ca

ROOFING

Milne Roofing Nanaimo 250-756-9197 Roofco Parksville 250-756-6361 Four Winds Roofing 200 View Street Nanaimo 250-754-7077

SECURITY SYSTEMS

ADT Security Service Canada 1-888-711-7888 Bastion Security Nanaimo 1-877-754-7222 SIDING

WINDOW & DOOR SCREENS

Phantom Screens Vancouver Island 1-888-742-6866 phantomscreen.ca

WINDOWS & DOORS

Allied Windows Nanaimo 250-756-2922 Centra Windows Nanaimo 250-756-3010 Coast Glass Parksville 250-248-4191 Complete Window Services 1-888-842-5959 1176 Franklin’s Gull Road, Parksville completewindowservices.com Crystal Pacific Glass Lantzville 250-390-0160 Milgard Windows 1-888-842-5959 1176 Franklin’s Gull Rd, Parksville completewindowservices.com/milgard.php Vinyltek 1-888-842-5959 1176 Franklin’s Gull Road, Parksville vinyltek.com Windows West 1-888-590-4301 Nanaimo windowswest.ca Island Architectural Millwork 250-753-3327 1995 Boxwood Drive, Nanaimo iamillwork.ca

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