Homes & Living Vancouver Island June/July 2013 issue by Homes & Living Magazine (H&L Magazine)

VANCOUVER ISLAND

june/july 2013

EXPERIENCE DISTILLED DESIGN WITH GAILE GUEVARA | ESCAPE WITH H&L TO LONDON, ENGLAND | WHOLESOME ALFRESCO ENTERTAINING

H&L’S

CANADIAN ROCK LEGEND

ULTIMATE KITCHEN ISSUE

COLIN JAMES

...IN HIS ELEMENT

IMPECCABLE TASTE IN KITCHEN DESIGN

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H&L FEATURE HOME

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Winner of the Commercial Building Award of Excellence

Multi-family: Stone’s Throw Building 1, Parksville

Parksville’s most modern downtown residences With a new vision of living, a dedication to quality and commitment to the environment, Stone’s Throw inspires a unique experience that combines comfortable living with contemporary and sustainable West Coast architecture

CERTIFIED ENERGY EFFICIENT AND ENVIRONMENTALLY RESPONSIBLE HOMES

TOWN HOME - 1,835 sq. ft.

Features master bedroom and main living on the ground floor with large studio loft on the upper floor - open to dining / living below

PATIO HOME - 1,465 sq. ft. Features all the living space on the ground floor

220 McVickers Street, Parksville, BC | StonesThrowLiving.ca | ph 250.228.0512 Open house Monday-Friday 11-4pm

june/july 2013

LOFT HOME - 1,435 sq. ft.

Features ground floor entry with all the living space on the second floor

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june/july 2013

contents homes

H&L vancouver island june/July 2013

H&Lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S

ultimate kitchen ISSUE

22 on the cover

40 HOMES 22 Distilled Design Minimalist Mentality By Gaile Guevara

30 Transformations Panorama From Patina Designed By Patricia Gray

40 Feature Home: Surya DuroNĂĄ Seeing the Light By Jessica Krippendorf

56 Ultimate KitchenS Section Stunning, timeless spaces that will inspire all design styles

76 Feature Renovation: Sonria Hideaway Designed With a Chef in Mind By Jessica Krippendorf

The Ensuite www.emcobc.ca Douglas Victoria 3400 3400 Douglas St,St, Victoria 250.380.1570 250.380.1570

4388 Still Creek Drive, Burnaby 604.298.1980 1075 Henry Place, Victoria 1075 Henry EngEng Place, Victoria 250.391.3050 250.391.3050

68 East 7th Ave, Vancouver

4 - 2350 Dorman Rd,Nanaimo Nanaimo604.872.3371 2350 Dorman Rd,

showroom web address02 250.751.2622 250.751.2622

Seamount™ Bath new from Hytec

Bring music to your shower like never before with the new Moxie™ showerhead + wireless The freestanding Seamount™ bath quickly becomes the focal point of any bathroom. Its speaker. Pair music, news and more to the magnetic wireless speaker with any device crisp, clean lines draw your attention, and the bath’s thoughtful features keep it. that’s enabled with Bluetooth® technology. Then pop the speaker into the showerhead and Versatile, as well as stylish, the Seamount bath can be installed as a freestanding, a drop-in get ready to shower out loud. Check out Moxie at your nearest KOHLER® Showroom. or an undermount bath, depending on your needs. Learn more at KOHLER.com/Moxie

The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by Kohler Co. is under license. Other trademarks and trade names are those of their respective owners.

Rugged Materials • Smooth, Easy-to-Clean Finishes • Simple, Quick Installation • Affordable • Outstanding Service and Support

june/july 2013

Shower Out Loud An Unencumbered Oasis of Calm

contents living

H&L vancouver island june/july 2013

34 living 34 Celebrity Profile: Colin James In His Element By Michelle Hopkins

50 Epicure Wholesome & Healthful Alfresco Entertaining Recipes by Trevor Bird

84 Expressions: Mary Fox

Mary the Potter and the Studio of Treasures By Melissa Fryer

88 Living Well Infrared Therapy Heats up the Spa World By Pamela Durkin

90 Legacy Know What You Want By Robert Pesti

92 Escape: London Great Expectations of London By Claire Newell

98 Art Fix: Art Gallery of Greater Victoria Absently Influential: The Art of Kiyoshi Saito By Courtney Rosborough

106 Words on the Street: Tod Road A Diamond in the Rough By Danda Humphreys

110 Haunting ofâ&#x20AC;Ś Hauntings at the Royal Theatre By John Adams

119 The Fast & the Luxurious Super Coupes: The Fastest Set of Wheels in Town By Tony Whitney

126 Web Exclusives 128 Looking Forward

This is not a sofa bed, it’s an eye-catching, sleep-inducing, marvel of modern engineering.

No bars, no springs, no sagging. The Comfort Sleeper™ is in a category by itself. It’s not only a gorgeous piece of furniture. It’s the only sleeper with the Tiffany 24/7™ Sleep System. Solid platforms provide even support for the full-length, high-density foam mattress. And, the patented mechanism opens and closes almost effortlessly. No other sleeper is as comfortable, because no other sleeper compares. Tempur-Pedic ® option available.

On Sale Now at Sager’s Home Living

1802 GOVERNMENT ST.

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june/july 2013

The New Comfort Sleeper from American Leather

prime OFFICE SPACE AVAILABLE located in the prestigious Selkirk Waterfront Development (across from glo europub)

Publisher & Founder Robert Read Editor Jessica Raymond Creative Director/Art Director Karla Peckett Ad Design Director Anders Paulsen Office Admin Courtney Rosborough Office Assistant Gabriela Gorea Accounts Kathleen Sebastian Accountant Douglas Parkhurst, CA Contributing Photographers Tony Puerzer Ema Peter Marie-Hélène Bilodeau

Homes & Living’s spectacular victoria waterfront office space is available immediately with the extraordinary growth and success of homes & living magazine, we are now moving our head office to vancouver!

Retail/Office space 1,300 sq. ft. + mezzanine 2 underground stalls multi-room sound control Area amenities include: restaurants, cafÉs, a health club and a Montessori school. Conveniently located along the Galloping Goose Trail. For further information: Jawl Properties Ltd. | Wayne Ford 250.414.4180 | jawlproperties.com or contact: homes & living magazine 1.855.myHLmag (694.5624)

HLMAGAZINE.COM

Contributing Writers Adem Tepedelen Ben Vorst Bruce Macdonald Claire Newell Courtney Rosborough Danda Humphreys Danielle Metcalfe-Chenail Diane Switzer Doug Parkhurst Elizabeth Hak Gaile Guevara Goody Niosi Greg Pratt Jessica Krippendorf John Adams Melissa Fryer Michelle Hopkins Pamela Durkin Pat Burkette Robert Pesti Sarah Norton Seema Dhawan Simi Kaila Tony Parsons Tony Whitney Homes & Living Vancouver 604.682.4000 Toll Free: 1.855.myHLmag (694.5624)

H&L Newsletter For a limited time only get a free digital subscription to Homes & Living, plus gain free access to never-before-seen pictures of H&L’s exclusive feature homes. Sign up at HLmagazine.com H&L Displays Looking for a free copy of Homes & Living? Back issues of Homes & Living can be found at advertiser show rooms in your area free of charge. 2013 Publication Schedule Homes & Living Vancouver Island: bi-monthly, 6x annually; Homes & Living Vancouver: bi-monthly, 6x annually; Homes & Living Calgary: bi-monthly, 6x annually Subscription Services Subscribe today and receive a second subscription for a friend at 50 per cent off! Visa/MasterCard accepted Phone: 1.855.myHLmag (694-5624) Online: HLmagazine.com Email: subs@HLmagazine.com All rights reserved. No part of Homes & Living 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. Homes & Living is a registered trademark of READ media inc. with the Canadian Intellectual Property Office of Canada. Trademark registration number TMA799,399. Any use of trademark, without the publisher’s written consent, is strictly prohibited. Canada Post Publications Mail Agreement - 41950525

Homes & Living Vancouver Island 250.383.7323 Toll Free: 1.855.myHLmag (694.5624) Homes & Living Calgary Toll Free: 1.855.myHLmag (694.5624) VP of Sales – Western Canada Robert Read | robert@readmedia.ca VP of Sales & Operations - Vancouver Julie Hamilton | julie@readmedia.ca Account Manager – Alberta Karen Keveryga | karen@readmedia.ca

HLMAGAZINE.COM 16

Letters to the Editor H&L welcomes your comments, questions and opinions. Send your letters via email to editor@hlmagazine.com

CORPORATE OFFICE: READ media inc. Publisher of Homes & Living magazine #110 - 2940 Jutland Road Victoria, BC V8T 5K6 Tel: 250.383.READ (7323) Toll Free: 1.855.myHLmag (694.5624) Fax: 250.383.7328 © copyright 2008-2013 READ media inc.

When design demands craftsmanship

For great kitchen and bathroom ideas, visit our website at SwiftsureWoodworkers.com

june/july 2013

VINCE KLASSEN PHOTOGRAPHIC

editor’s message “The purpose of life … is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience.” — Eleanor Roosevelt

With every issue of Homes & Living, we endeavour to bring you inspiring features on living your best life – from enhancing your home to eating better and travelling more. Many people say, living your best life begins in the kitchen – the heart of the home. We agree, which is why we dedicated our June/July issue to this significant space. When the H&L team sat down to brainstorm ideas for names of our kitchen issue, we tossed around more than a dozen adjectives, but nothing quite fit, until we selected “ultimate” – the best achievable or imaginable – which precisely describes the feature kitchens in this stunning issue. These kitchens represent fulfilled desires – not dreams just beyond one’s reach. Each kitchen is a showcase of the latest trends in kitchen technology and design, but these styles will last longer than your typical trends. Contemporary European design is leading the popularity contest due to seamless, modular looks made from innovative high-quality materials that can be arranged to suit any floor plan. Bold colour accents – particulary in red and yellow – are also showing up in high-end kitchens around the globe, adding visual interest to clean, contemporary spaces. In addition to our ultimate kitchen showcase, we’re excited to announce our Inaugural Ultimate Kitchen Contest. You’re invited to vote for your favourite kitchen and be entered to win a fully automated coffee/espresso machine from Gaggenau. An overview of the participating kitchens can be found inside this issue, with a full photo gallery and complete contest details found on HLmagazine.com

Requests have poured in from readers asking for wellness-related articles to enhance our “Living” content. I’m excited to deliver on those requests by introducing our new column, Living Well, which takes you inside the retreats and studios, and brings you the latest research on exclusive wellness treatments and services so you can try before you buy. For our first Living Well article, new H&L contributor and registered nutritional consultant, Pamela Durkin, investigates the benefits of infrared therapy, deemed the “gateway treatment” by leading spa owners. Discover what’s behind the hype. We have also enhanced our Escape column, with help from travel expert and best-selling author Claire Newell. Claire’s goal is to empower people to travel. She says, “Travel is a way to connect with the world and become enriched by it.” Claire will be sharing her wisdom and best travel advice with H&L readers, beginning in this issue with her feature, “Great Expectations of London.” Whatever you’re passionate about, whatever drives you, whatever you desire – follow it! Pursue experiences that will enrich life, starting now. Sincerely,

Jessica Raymond, Editor

Canadian Society of Magazine Editors member Editors’ Association of Canada member

Your letters and comments are always welcome. Send an email to editor@hlmagazine.com

2655 Douglas St. Victoria

250.386.7632

yourstyleyourway.ca

june/july 2013

Your home should be as unique as you are. Visit our award-winning showroom to personalize any piece of furniture to complement your authentic personality and your familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s diverse needs. With our complimentary design services you can achieve your style, your way.

contributors

claire newell

gaile guevara

Claire Newell is the official travel consultant for Global BC and best-selling author of Travel Best Bets. She has written articles for Success, Professional Woman, Today’s Parent, Reader’s Digest and now she is Homes & Living magazine’s exclusive Escape writer. Claire’s latest role is as co-host of the new travel series Operation: Vacation airing in Canada in early 2013. Visit clairenewell.com

Gaile Guevara is a Vancouver BC-based interior designer with an extensive background in residential multi-family projects. Her specialty is distilling interiors to their purest elements. She has an online following of over 300,000 on Pinterest and over 5.8 million page views on Flickr.

John Adams

Courtney Rosborough

John Adams is a Victoria historian, author and operator of “Discover the Past” Tours. He and his wife live in a 1909 restored heritage house in James Bay. To join John on one of his popular “Dinner Ghosts” evenings, call 250.384.6698 or email discoverthepast@telus.net to make reservations. Join him on “Ghostly Walks,” his classic ghost tour, in Old Town throughout the year. Check discoverthepast.com for more details.

Courtney Rosborough is a freelance writer who melds her love for writing with her ability to ask thought-provoking questions. With a background in psychology at the University of Alberta, she tends to create meaningful connections with wonder by revealing the truths that are waiting to be heard.

Michelle Hopkins

Tony Puerzer

Michelle Hopkins has extensive magazine and newspaper writing experience in home decor, culinary adventures, wine, travel and more. Originally from the East Coast, Michelle loves the differences in culture and landscape that Canada provides. Someone once described Michelle’s writing like this: “She skillfully weaves together her own experiences and finds characters to provide colour for her stories.”

Tony Puerzer is a Feature Home photographer for Homes & Living magazine. He owns Bright Idea Photography in Nanaimo and brings fine-art craftsmanship to architecture, portrait and product photography. Highly sensitive to the environment, Tony documents settings ranging from the intimate to the extravagant, while discreetly maintaining a light presence throughout the session.

Jessica Krippendorf

Danda Humphreys

Jessica Krippendorf is a freelance writer and editor based on Vancouver Island. She studied creative writing and publishing at Vancouver Island University, but has been writing professionally since she was old enough to run a typewriter. She writes about construction, architecture, design and sustainable, playful living for publications across North America.

Local author Danda Humphreys conducts tours through Victoria’s historic downtown areas. Her latest book Government Street: Victoria’s Heritage Mile is now available in local bookstores. A skilled researcher and author, Humphreys has written and published five award-winning books on the history of Victoria. Visit dandahumphreys.com

Superior Performance. Refined Design.

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View the New Wolf Gas Range at one of our premier Victoria area dealers.

distilled design

Timeless Interiors by Gaile Guevara

Understated walnut makes a bold impact in these modern minimalist kitchens designed by acclaimed Vancouver-based designer Christian Woo A Space Worth Celebrating It’s an exciting time in kitchen design with the movement of people respecting food and caring more about their health. The kitchen is the heart of a home, a celebrated gathering place to create a healthy relationship with food. Thus, a kitchen should be beautiful and well-designed using honest materials. It should “feel” good.

An Artist Worth Celebrating Christian Woo’s work is a blend of the classic lines of Scandinavian furniture and the refinement of Japanese joinery. His attention to detail in his craft deserves recognition. His work is driven by his profound respect for craftsmanship and the nature of his chosen material. I have had the pleasure of watching his work mature over the years with his use of a singular material: walnut. Less really is more in the case of Woo’s designs; when one material is used on multiple surfaces, you really begin to appreciate it. Learning to use a material and make it impactful in a space means truly understanding and embracing it, as Woo has done.

Kitchens Worth Celebrating Woo looks at kitchens as more than just a series of cabinets on walls. He takes his knowledge of traditional solutions and looks at new ways to create spaces. The featured kitchens are great examples of surpassing convention while practising restraint and editing back the variation of materials.

Kitchen one, a West Vancouver rancher project, features a beautiful 24-foot free-standing kitchen tower, the centerpiece of the home. It serves to create two distinct areas â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the kitchen on the south side and the entrance on the north â&#x20AC;&#x201C; while discreetly housing all integrated appliances and work areas. The custom-louvered verticalpanelled walnut screen enhances the distinction between the kitchen and entry without obstructing the views. The screen frames the working surfaces while light moves through it and bounces around room. Flush, streamlined details such as integrated appliances and pulls create a handsome kitchen that will look good for years, maybe forever.

Words by Gaile Guevara Design by Christian Woo Photographs by Trevor Brady

june/july 2013

Minimalist Mentality 23

Walnut will age well and each mark, scratch and dent will only enhance its beauty

TIP: Practise restraint. Less really is more and quality goes a long way

Kitchen two is a suspended black American walnut kitchen designed for a Stanley Park residence that boasts Wooâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s signature covert pulls, creating flush surfaces throughout. Discrete Bocci outlets help maintain a sense of singular purpose and cohesion. The details are a creative mix of modern details and function with the kitchen hung on the wall and the flooring extended below the cabinetry. This is a great solution for small spaces as it provides more room to breathe. Using a single material throughout, once again, provides a more customized look.

Wood Details Worth Investing in: Walnut, like most wood, will hold its value despite trends. Each piece is an investment for the home. The natural grain of black walnut is subtle to the eye and smooth to the touch.

june/july 2013

TIP: Pair complementary materials with innovative technology to balance a space and maintain clean lines

Christian Woo Designer of precision hand-built hardwood pieces and interiors; renowned for his careful details and elegant simplicity.

The third kitchen is Woo’s East Vancouver loft. The minimal design shows off Woo’s love of walnut as the focal material throughout the space. The kitchen island is finished in solid black matte American walnut with integrated doors. Woo’s signature walnut bar stools line the island. Beyond the island, the white backsplash and countertop is Formica on Europly. High-end appliances and LED lighting have been integrated wherever possible. A single solid black walnut bowl is the perfect accent to the understated kitchen. You deserve to know what beautiful feels like, so choose design details for your kitchen that are simple, yet meaningful, and function beyond form.

harbour city kitchens 2189 keating cross road 路 saanichton 路 phone: 250.652.5200 we invite you to visit our new website harbourcitykitchens.com

june/july 2013

f ine cabinetry & storage systems

timeless design

accents by Gaile Guevara

Kramer | 8” Chef

Traditional octagonal handle, mosaic damascus, double-dyed big leaf with maple handle Available | Online

Le CrEuset | Enamelled Cast Iron Oval French Oven This pot is perfect for braising and cooking risotto; the evenly distributed heat ensures you don’t burn anything. (Available in multiple colours) Available | Capital Iron

Kramer | 8” Chef and 5” Utility

Euro style plasma, mosaic Damascus with rosewood handle Available | Online

IKEA | Blanda Blank Bowl All-Clad | 6-piece Copper Core Collection All you need is one good-quality set of pots and pans in stainless steel with a copper core. Available | Hudson’s Bay

Easily organize a well-planned meal with this durable and lightweight stainless steel bowl. A set stacks nicely and doesn’t take up too much room.

Kramer | 12” Slicer Knife and Carving Fork

Euro style, mosaic damascus with snakewood handles Available | Online

Available | IKEA

Imperia | Pasta machine Dubbed the “Rolls Royce of pasta machines,” this restaurant-quality pasta roller is well-built and long-lasting. Available | Gourmet Warehouse .

“Cork & Fin is my little piece of New York in the heart of Vancouver’s historic Gastown with exceptional service and fine food. Cork & Fin’s chef, Dan Marcenko, shares his kitchen necessities and what’s on his wish list for his ultimate kitchen…” – Gaile Guevara

the Necessities Dan’s Must-have Tools for the Kitchen

Lighting solutions f o r yo u r k i tc h e n

as individual as you are

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june/july 2013

D E CO R AT E W I T H L I G H T

Transformations

Purposeful Interiors by Professionals

The view is the thing in this luxury Vancouver condo reimagined by celebrity home interior designer Patricia Gray When Patricia Gray first entered this new 37th-floor Vancouver condo it was a classic bachelor pad – with a black leather sofa pit and a big flat-screen TV blocking a spectacular 180-degree view of downtown Vancouver. “It was awful; it didn’t have any character,” she remembers of that first look. Gray’s challenge: to transform this 1,767 square-foot two bedroom plus den apartment into a luxurious space for adults that felt like a five-star hotel and maximized the five-star view from every room. Gray’s clients purchased the apartment as a second home. They would be spending half their time here, so the suite needed to be comfortable and easy to maintain. Taking clues from the clients’ style, Gray used mostly natural fabrics and neutral colours – like taupe, chalk, greys and soft greens – to keep everything subdued to the view. The view is the main attraction from the open-concept living room, dining room and kitchen. A 12- by 20-foot wool and viscose carpet from Belgium grounds the living room. Custom furnishings – including two swivel chairs done up in wool mohair, a creamy boucle sofa and a linen-upholstered slipper chair – frame the TV while still allowing the homeowners to enjoy the view. A beautiful metallic wallpaper is a neutral, yet luxurious, backdrop to the main living area.

Words by jessica raymond interior Design By patricia gray Photographs by Roger Brooks

FromPatina

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Panorama 31

The luxury finishes continue in the dining room where a custom chandelier, featuring 22 handmade Italian crystal tiles, is suspended over the table. “We kept our fingers crossed through the whole process,” Gray laughs. The translucent chandelier is a stunning piece that casts rainbows on the walls whenever the sun shines through the windows; yet, it doesn’t detract from the view. Adjacent to the dining room is the office with a view. Two Aeron chairs sit at a roomlength desk so the homeowners can work on their laptops in comfort and style. When procrastination takes over, they can simply peer out at the city beyond the window. The printer and scanner are discretely hidden in a custom credenza. Gray took full advantage of the spacious entryway/foyer by installing frameless sandblasted glass doors so the view is available immediately upon entry into the suite. A custom-designed settee is a luxurious addition to the foyer. For the design, Gray took her cue from Paris couture fashion by ruching the back, trimming it with walnut and upholstering it in a Great Plain’s velvet. The mixed media acrylic painting above the settee is a Gray original. Cobalt green and variations of blues pop while bronze and iridescent colours add a shimmery effect. A mirror hangs on an end wall in the foyer so when you’re in the suite with your back to the view, the view is reflected back.

This apartment feels like a five-star hotel and maximizes the five-star view from every room

Before Gray came in, the suite had nothing going for it, except the view. Now it’s a fivestar suite with a five-star view.

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Exclusive News and Interviews

colin james ...in his element

25 years of rockin’ bliss The walls of veteran blues guitarist and singer Colin James’ home studio are covered with mementoes spanning a successful 25-year music career. Between the Chinese motif sound panels hang some of James’ coveted guitars, including a vintage Martin acoustic, as well as framed gold records and accolades. The impossibly young-looking James points to a large canvas of blues master Muddy Waters. It was given to the artist following a 1997 CBC television special, Colin James Presents the Blues Masters. One of his most prized possessions is a Jim Keltnersigned snare drum head. It was gifted to James by the American drummer after he performed on the vocalist’s album Limelight. (Keltner is best known for his work on solo recordings with the Beatles’ George Harrison, John Lennon and Ringo Starr.) Another coveted souvenir is a copy of Stevie Ray Vaughan’s 1985 proof for his Soul to Soul album cover. “When I was 16, Stevie was in Regina and I phoned him to say I’d love to ask him questions,” recalls the 48-yearold musician. “He met up with me and since then, he [has been] a friend and mentor.”

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Words by michelle hopkins photographs by tony puerzer creative direction by karla Peckett

At Home

James shares his North Vancouver home with his wife of nearly 22 years, Heather, and their two children, Ryland, 14, and daughter Deghan, 17. There’s also a menagerie of three Doodle crosses who have the run of the house – Zoe, 11, Maggie, 4 ½, and the littlest one, Anabelle, two.

Completely relaxed as the centre of attention, James starts strumming on a custom-designed replica of a 1960s Fender. His newest baby is a white and light green guitar that looks rather beaten, but James quickly explains, “I purposely wanted it that way.”

The couple purchased their 1930s triple-gabled home nearly four years ago, after living in Lions Bay for close to two decades. “Heather and I loved our home in Lions Bay, but with our son playing hockey in North Vancouver it was just too much of a commute,” says James, adding he bought his former home with money he earned from a Molson beer commercial.

James adorns all of his guitars with a sticker of a 1950s pin-up girl. As the consummate entertainer thumbs through a few, he asks Heather which one she likes. They smile as they both choose the same dark-haired beauty. “In 1989, I first found some of these stickers in a store in Greenwich Village in New York and thought they would look cool on my guitars,” he says.

the

personal side Q&A What is your favourite way to relax when not touring? I always have a few different books on the go, love a good movie or documentary, and also try to get on my bike whenever I can, weather permitting. Cycling is huge for me … so good for you and so much fun.

Getting it Right . . . For You

What is it you love most about living in BRITISH COLUMBIA?

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I love that it’s green here all year-round. I don’t love the rain that you get in winter, but spring and summer are fantastic.

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What is your favourite room in your home? My favourite room is honestly the bedroom. It’s what sold the house for me here in a way. It’s super peaceful with the giant bamboo outside waving in the wind. It’s a 1930s three-gabled house and the bedrooms are in the gables on the second floor. You can see small glimpses of Lions Gate Bridge and downtown Vancouver KBDesignH&LApril2013.indd from the windows.

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13-03-12 3:13 PM

How many guitars do you have in your collection? Well, let me see... quite a few, although I don’t really consider myself a collector. All the guitars I have are working guitars. Somewhere around 22 or 23 I think.

What is your most requested song during live performances? “Why’d You Lie?” followed by “Voodoo Thing.”

What’s in your CD player?

“I’m very grateful and it’s neat that I’ve been able to maintain a career that I love.”

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I listen to lots of jazz, from legendary greats such as Coleman Hawkins, Billie Holiday, Kenny Burrell and Bob Dylan. My kids like it too … my daughter loves 1920s jazz saxophonist Ben Webster.

Enjoying the Journey Life is really good for the six-time Juno Award winner. Earlier this year he was inducted into the 2013 Canadian Music Industry Hall of Fame. “I’m very grateful and it’s neat that I’ve been able to maintain a career that I love,” says a humble James. The accomplished guitarist, songwriter and vocalist celebrated this remarkable milestone with his firstever live album – Twenty Five Live. The 16-track album features classic hits such as Into the Mystic, It Ain’t Over Yet and Why’d You Lie. James recorded the album in November on the last of his sold-out three-night gig at Vancouver’s legendary Commodore Ballroom.

His Early Beginnings A prairie boy from Saskatchewan, James became serious about music at the age of eight. “I got my first electric guitar at 10 and have played guitar ever since,” says the self-taught musician. “I initially was a picker; always playing bluegrass … singing was secondary at the time.” His parents took notice of their son’s budding talent. At 13, James’ mom presented him with a custom-made Peter Allan Sawchyn guitar. “When I needed money, I sold it for $500 and then bought it back a few years later for $1,000,” he says. By 16, he was performing the blues in coffeehouses in Winnipeg with his band, The Hoodoo Men.

Making It Back in 1988, when legions of punk and alternative bands were dominating the scene, James was catching international attention with several hits off his selftitled debut album, including Voodoo Thing and Why’d You Lie? In his band, The Little Big Band, the Regina native was writing, arranging and singing songs and playing a mean guitar. His album earned him his first Juno and Most Promising Male Vocalist of the Year, as well as a chance to open for The Rolling Stones’ Keith Richards.

James has shared the stage with some of the biggest names in the business, including Lenny Kravitz, ZZ Top, Carlos Santana, Bonnie Raitt and The Chieftains, to name just a few. “A few years back, I got to play a couple of tunes with Mick Fleetwood (Fleetwood Mac founder) in Maui,” says James. “If somebody had told me as a kid that I would share the stage with Mick Fleetwood, I wouldn’t have believed them.” Over the years, James has taken home Male Vocalist of the Year twice, as well as Best Producer for The Little Big Band. James has also garnered 17 Maple Blues Awards, most recently, Entertainer of the Year. Critics hail him as Canada’s Stevie Ray Vaughan because of his strong guitar playing and soulful voice. To this day, although James is honoured, he says he always felt a little uncomfortable with that star status. As James approaches 50, he has achieved something that is rare in the Canadian music scene: longevity. This rock-and-roller continues to delight his fans and garner new ones. Today, James’ music isn’t pure rock; it’s a hybrid of rock, blues, R&B, swing revival and other genres, and he and his fans like it that way.

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feature home

Surya Duronรก Seeing the Light

Words BY Jessica Krippendorf Photographs by Joshua Lawrence

If you’re wondering where the light is kept, you might check inside this grand, yet cozy, beachfront home Streams of light pour through every room in Surya Duroná, . adding sparkle and warmth to a complementary palette of neutral tones, rich finishes and a balanced selection of high-quality materials and deluxe, yet liveable, spaces. This stunning home is tucked away at the end of a private road in one of Victoria’s most desired and elite neighbourhoods where it overlooks the ocean and a beautiful natural landscape. An intricate series of rough stone rock walls curves up and away from the street, protecting the home and creating movement around its base. The façade’s rectilinear masses are lightened and visually divided by a lower middle section where a balcony forms the portico roof. Arched entryways and a gentle radius roofline hint at the subtle use of curvature that punctuates the entire design. The cedar shake exterior connects the home to its natural environment, while black trim provides an immediate sense of traditional styling, reminiscent of the timeless beauty of Tudor. Double-arched columns with “X” frame rails create privacy at the enclosed entryway. Strong detailing at the top of the columns and the base of the balcony proves no detail was left to whim. A grand entrance, marked by a solid wood door with bevelled-edge glass sidelights, welcomes visitors inside where a perfectly layered collection of soft, but robust, finishes await the eye.

With two young children, ornate was not on the wish list, but beautiful flow, generous rooms and contemporary conveniences were at the top. The family wanted to make use of every space, including the grounds.

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The owners of the 6,700-square-foot home dreamed of a design that integrated their favourite aspects of their previous home – a traditionally styled character home – into the new space with bright, airy rooms that featured clean lines and functionality.

H&L’s feature home

Victoria’s Abstract Developments, one of the city’s premier builders of custom homes, was a natural choice as builder of this project because the company prides itself on attention to detail and breathing life into homeowners’ design dreams, be they West Coast contemporary, modern or traditional. “We are committed to delivering the finest customer experience through our exemplary design, innovation, quality and value,” says Brandon Williams, marketing manager for Abstract Developments. “We approach every project with the same passion, creativity and expertise, and this project was no exception.” The interior design and layout mirrors the strong lines of the exterior, softened in all the right places with occasional and purposeful arches in selected windows, ceiling details and light fixtures. These details bring the entire design together with gently inferred connections and continuity.

553 Hillside Ave.

(Between Bridge and Rock Bay) Tuesday - Saturday 10 am - 5 pm

250.721.5530

designsourcewarehouse.com

Just steps inside, the design takes shape with a decorative inlay in the foyer floor. The beach-toned hardwood flooring that spans the entire main level is configured here in a herring bone pattern, framed by a Carerra marble and dark wood border – both materials that appear abundantly in the rest of the home. Immediately ahead, a series of pillars creates a subtle division between the entry and the great room without hindering the view or light. The great room is a bright, open space that simultaneously exudes elegance and warmth. Central to the space is a concrete pre-cast fireplace hearth with a layered surround.

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The ceiling reaches its maximum height of 25 feet in this area, leaving abundant wall space made dynamic, but clean, with recessed panels framed with a custom millwork design and painted with neutral tones. The furnishings are the perfect complement – a dark grey sofa and a black, low-profile coffee table leave the emphasis on the room’s visual space, while a gold sun-shaped mirror over the hearth adds a subtle hint of sparkle and a tributary nod to the abundant natural light.

“Congratulations to Abstract Developments on Another Beautiful Home!”

H&L’s feature home

To the right of the entry, a section of ceiling is barrelled, leading to the kitchen where the family spends most of their time. In many ways, the design began here – a soft, open, decadent space with abundant marble finishes and sleek stainless steel appliances that add a brush of contemporary styling. Carerra marble covers the island counter, perimeter counter and backsplashes – a daring but elegant move in a lively kitchen. White lacquer upper and lower perimeter cabinets backdrop the marble, while delicate cross-hatch wire on the two tallest cabinet doors and a rustic pitted metal on the hood fan add texture and interest. A stylish stainless steel fridge with one opaque glass door, tucked away at one end, is a natural part of the room’s design. A built-in work station at the opposite end adds functionality to the space. Six deep brown suede chairs with exposed bronze tacks pull up to the island under three industrial-styled pendants, encouraging company to connect when the family entertains. Dark walnut on the island’s base grounds the space and connects with the rest of the rooms where dark wood is also used to further the traditional styling against the neutral palette.

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Behind the island, the dining space features a rough wood table surrounded by dark brown plush chairs with subtle curves and exposed tacks. Overhead, a silver distressed metal chandelier is a beautiful centerpiece.

The powder room on this level features a beautifully crafted bevelled-edge mirror wall, framed in one-inch tumbled marble tiles and a refined pencil rail edge. The mirror appears as a work of art, rising up from behind a rectilinear sink positioned on a cabinet vanity with aluminum legs. 1950B Oak Bay Ave, Victoria | ph 250.361.9243 | www.heatwave.me

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Generous glazing opens the space – double glass doors and high windows surround the dining area and extend into the great room where three rows of double-stacked windows create the back wall.

Recessed wainscotting on the window wall and taupe paint on the door wall create an effective layering of multiple finishes in a small space. The result is depth and beauty that remains visually simple. A profound but seamless transition to a much lighter aesthetic appears upstairs, beginning with the master bedroom – a stunning, retreat-styled space where shades of white and grey layer to envelop the room in warm elegance. White lacquer cabinets and arch-top shelving are grounded by a distressed wood dresser and end tables. Double doors lead to the balcony overlooking a forest view. Ambient light is created with a circular chandelier with stone and wire detailing and antique-styled metal bedside lamps with distressed grey shades.

May the sun come, it’s a new day...” — Miguel Torga

Luxury awaits in the master ensuite where a small weave pattern on the marble floor is carried up into the steam shower. A generous free-standing tub with chrome fixtures and a matching silver side table glimmers under glazing on three sides. Twin round undermount sinks are contained in a stepped marble-topped vanity and white lacquer cabinets beneath. Small grey marble tiles form a narrow backsplash behind the sinks and below generous mirrors.

H&L’s feature home

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Brit’s Fine Furniture

“Creating Heirlooms for Your Grandchildren”

Each of the children’s bedrooms is designed with flexible style and complete functionality in mind. The wall behind each bed features a wallpapered section framed by millwork, serving dual purpose as art and a headboard that can be easily repapered as the children’s interests grow and change. Desk nooks and service hookups provide excellent study spaces, and gem stone chandeliers and white detailing add a touch of sophistication.

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The girls’ bathroom is an aesthetically connected but more durable version of the rest of the home’s bathrooms. Darker porcelain on the floor and tub surround is accented with small decorative tiling and a quartz counter holds dual sinks under a double-wide mirror.

H&L’s feature home

Back on the main level, from the great room, an arched doorway leads down a short hallway that glows with warm ambiance with round silver pendant lamps overhead. This wing, accessible through bevelled edge glass doors, is set up for movie night with dark walnut shelving and a large inset TV. Distressed leather furnishings and a solid wood table continue the traditional aesthetic. A cozy fireplace with concrete detail around a metal surround welcomes quiet reading or conversation in the library. Wood and cast iron incarnations of classic utility shelves beautifully showcase treasures. A three-sided bay-style window brings in the light to a comfortable recliner and sofa set in deep brown and a creamy white with blue accent cushions. A rough cut wooden desk with cast iron legs and a wooden chair on castors is the perfect place for the homeowners to catch up on

end-of-day business while staying accessible to the rest of the family. Floor-to-ceiling wood cabinets and an inset row of glass cabinets ensure ample and stylish storage space. The home’s dynamic yet cohesive design carries through to the exterior where over 500 square feet of deck space are divided into six distinct outdoor areas ready for summertime enjoyment, including a double-level patio at the back of the property that features ample seating, a beautiful outdoor fireplace and a nice view of the grounds and rock-walled garden beds. “The outdoor areas are an integral part of the design because they represent the merriment of what is happening outside and inside,” says Williams. “Overall the design and execution allows a great deal of light to ebb and flow through the home.”

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Whet Your Appetite

Wholesome & Healthful Alfresco Entertaining

Spend more time outdoors, less time cooking

Season 2 Top Chef Canada competitor Trevor Bird serves up three recipes perfect for alfresco entertaining The following wholesome meal plan was designed with sunny days and cloudless skies in mind. Chef Trevor Bird based this menu on what was available locally, starting with the grilled albacore tuna entrĂŠe, by first speaking with his fish monger. The healthy and versatile vegetable vinaigrette pairs well with any fish; the potato salad is guilt-free; the flat bread is simple, but satisfying and tastes great with a sprinkling of olive oil and dash of salt; and to complete the meal, the berries and yogurt sabayon will have your guests believing youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a dessert pro.

Recipes by Trevor Bird photographs by Hamid Attie

Grilled Albacore Tuna with vegetable vinaigrette over potato salad Serves. 4

Coat one loin of Albacore tuna in olive oil and season well with salt. Grill on very high heat for 10 seconds per side of tuna. Remove and let cool.

Vegetable Vinaigrette 1 small 1 small 1 small 1 pint 1 2 tbsp 2 lemons 2 tbsp 2 tbsp 2 tbsp 1 cup

eggplant, cut into planks green zucchini, cut ¼ inch thick yellow zucchini, cut ¼ inch thick cherry tomatoes, cut in half red onion, cut ¼ inch thick rounds capers, roughly chopped lemon juice parsley, chopped chives, minced tarragon, chopped olive oil

Season the eggplant, zucchinis, tomatoes and red onion with olive oil and salt. Grill on high heat until charred and soft, about two minutes each side. Remove from grill and let cool. Dice vegetables into cubes and add the rest of the ingredients. It should be like a split vinaigrette with grilled vegetables. To finish, slice the tuna ¼ inch thick and lay on a plate. Season the eye with salt again and spoon over vinaigrette.

Healthy Potato Salad

Cook potatoes in heavily salted water. Let cool then cut into desired chunks and mix all the ingredients together. Taste for seasoning. Serve beneath or beside grilled and dressed tuna.

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1 kg fingerling potatoes or waxy potatoes 1 cup Greek yogurt ¼ cup lemon juice ¼ cup white wine vinegar ¼ cup honey ½ cup olive oil ½ cup celery, diced ¼ cup parsley, chopped 2 red onions, cut into rings and grilled ½ cup green onion, sliced pinch salt

“ having bowed to the inevitability of the dictum that we must eat to live, we should ignore it and live to eat...” — M.F.K. Fisher

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Flat Bread

Yields. 10 100g flat breads 8 cups 2.5 cups 6 tsp 6 tsp 3g

flour water salt sugar yeast

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Dissolve yeast in 10 teaspoons of the 2.5 cups of water and let dissolve. Add all ingredients together in a stand mixer and knead for 15 minutes. Set aside in a mixing bowl with a damp cloth covering the dough and let rest for four hours or until the dough doubles in size. Portion into 100 gram balls and place on an oiled baking sheet. Let dough rise for 20 minutes. Preheat grill to medium heat. Take a ball of dough and stretch to any shape desired, drizzle with olive oil and season with salt. Place dough on the grill for one minute and remove when golden brown and a little chard. If you like, grate cheese on top.

Berries and Yogurt Sabayon Yields. 1L Custard 12 1 tbsp 100 ml 20 tsp pinch

egg yolks Greek yogurt sweet white wine sugar salt

Place all ingredients in a metal bowl and place over direct heat, whisk constantly for five minutes until eggs are hot and you reach the ribbon stage (if you write your name with the egg dropping off the whisk it will stay there and disappear within two seconds). Spoon custard over mixed berries and crumble a cookie on top.

This delicious and nutritious summer meal is as easy as it is tasty, which is perfect for the deserving chef who will want to join his company to enjoy the meal on a bluebird day.

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ultimate kitchens section

ul·ti·mate adj. /’əltəmit/ The best achievable or imaginable of its kind

words by jessica raymond

The refined geometry of the wall unit accentuates the rational and contemporary nature of this kitchen

Contemporary is king in kitchens for 2013 and beyond

Even classic- and country-style kitchens have received a contemporary facelift. Featuring modern European design, the following nine ultimate kitchens are functional, yet aesthetically pleasing. Close your eyes and imagine standing in your ultimate kitchen, then open your eyes and be transported there through the stunning photographs featured on the following 18 pages.

A combination of smooth and textured surfaces adds a modern touch that pleases the eye, yet remains true to the minimal aesthetic

Bold red furniture and accents amidst the clean, symmetrical lines and two-colour scheme (white and wood) make this kitchen far from bland

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Kitchen Style: Contemporary Summary: A refreshing and functional Italian-made open-concept kitchen that blends design and practicality

ultimate kitchens section

A harmonious balance of authentic materials, ergonomics and aesthetics make this space liveable and beautiful

Kitchen Style: Contemporary/Minimalist Summary: A well-proportioned kitchen that complements the home’s architecture without distracting from it

Timeless, not Trendy

Eco- and quality-conscious homeowners are demanding kitchens that look good, feel good and function at a high level. Pared-down, seamless spaces – made possible through integrated elements – feature just the essentials, a look that is sure to thrive long-term. Luxury modular kitchens – two words rarely seen together – are flooding the market as well, making it possible to design a custom space without the custom price. The effect is a stunning, multipurpose, original work of art.

This kitchen is an interesting juxtaposition between the clean lines and precision details, and the rugged coastline that the property sits on, which is seen through the floor-to-ceiling glass enclosing the space

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Official Supplier of the 2013 IDS West Homes & Living Laneway Feature Home

ultimate kitchens section

With the exception of the quartzite countertops, natural materials were used throughout, a standout natural element being the impressive stone hearth

The custom hand-forged chandeliers speak to classic traditional French provincial styles

The terracotta floor tiles and barrel-vaulted brick and wood beam ceiling – reminiscent of an old wine cave or sub terrain French bakery – accentuate the relaxed country manor styling

Country With Class

Ultimate country kitchens combine old-world elegance with modern materials and conveniences. Defining features often include traditional cabinet lines, window grids, handcrafted details and exquisite finishing touches. Inspiration for these spaces typically comes from European, particularly French, designs and designers, trends and styles. Contemporary touches popular in country kitchens include wood furniture, decor and accents; an all-white scheme or a bold accent colour; and stylish lighting.

Kitchen Style: Country Summary: The home’s traditional architecture and country environs inspired the design of this 450-square-foot, highly sophisticated country manor-style kitchen

Building Beautiful Custom Homes

P 205.857.5349

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GOLD 2012 CARE Award Winner Best Single Family Detached Custom Home

ultimate kitchens section

High-gloss laminate panels, used on the back wall, are not only luxurious, but also extremely durable

Highly durable, joint-free, seamless cabinetry, created using the latest laser technology, reflects upcoming styles and trends

Kitchen Style: Contemporary Summary: Durable doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t equal dull in this flawless, seamless 190-square-foot kitchen that comes to life with oversized furniture and accents, like the industrial yellow table and white lights

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Durable floating shelving creates a distinctive look in a kitchen fit for entertaining

ultimate kitchens section

Oversized forged iron and water glass light fixtures float flawlessly in the space Custom-painted frameless cabinets in natural walnut, designed to resemble furniture pieces, integrate seamlessly with the architecture

Kitchen Style: Classic Summary: Timeless and functional, this impressive timber-framed kitchen was designed with symmetry in mind

Custom Classics

If original is what you want, custom is your calling. Custom means a space designed to suit your specific needs and desires. What is the kitchenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s primary purpose? Will it be a cooking and dining space, socializing and entertaining space, or both? Does it need to wow guests? What is the desired theme or style? Is there a view to consider? What about the architecture â&#x20AC;&#x201C; is it a focal point or the feature element? The answers to these questions will yield a custom design concept for your ultimate kitchen.

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Heritage Renovation of the Year for 2012 and the 2012 CHBA CVI Renovator of the Year

We WORK hard to provide truly CUSTOM SPACES for our clients.

We are committed to building beautiful, energy-efficient and sustainable homes that are inexpensive to operate and maintain, and are more comfortable for their owners. We bring the same high level of quality and service to each renovation and new home project, of any size or budget. Give us a call, we’d love to discuss your new home, kitchen, bathroom, or any other renovation project!

250.618.6880 | BuildBetterHomes.ca

june/july 2013

CUSTOM HOMES • RENOVATIONS • DESIGN & BUILD

ultimate kitchens section

A unique combination of finishes â&#x20AC;&#x201C; white paint, stained wood and dark paint â&#x20AC;&#x201C; is a daring, but effective, choice

Polished granite and quartzite countertops enhance the luxury look

Oversized polished marble floor tiles are simply stunning

Kitchen Style: Traditional/Transitional Summary: This spacious 750-square-foot kitchen sparkles with luxury accents throughout and uses three finishes for a truly distinctive show space

june/july 2013

From the beveLled glass mirror behind the sink to the polished chrome stools, this kitchen really sparkles

Doors and pull-outs can be opened with a light touch, just one of the many luxurious and innovative hidden details

ultimate kitchens section

Thin worktops, handle-less surfaces and purity of lines refine the visual experience

Contemporary Cuisine

Award-winning and internationally renowned designers are increasingly guided by integrated concepts, which are showing up, and showing off, in kitchens worldwide and close to home. Characteristics of integrated kitchens include floor-to-ceiling cabinetry; high-gloss countertops and backsplashes; and hidden handles. Natural and light colour schemes are carried through to adjoining rooms, blurring the line between the kitchen and living areas. A combination of open and closed boxes typifies current trends, especially in kitchens styled for socializing. All elements are ultra-light and extremely durable with quality, handcrafted details not meant to be noticed.

Kitchen Style: Contemporary Summary: Aesthetics and ergonomics holistically interact in this German-made kitchen that extends an invitation to cook and dine, celebrate or relax

Woodsend Custom Home, Victoria

Seapoint Drive Custom Home, Victoria

With a solid reputation, and attention to detail and service, you can be rest assured that Eagle Pacific will give you a lasting investment and showcase quality home.

online: E A G L E P A C I F I C . C A ph: 250.882.2213

Natureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gate Custom Home, Victoria

West Coast Contemporary Home, Victoria

june/july 2013

Certified Green Home Builder

ultimate kitchens section

Distinguishing industrial features include lacquered knotted oak veneer cabinets and metal doors with a drip finish

Kitchen Style: Industrial Summary: Premium casual living is epitomized in this expressive industrial kitchen, designed for socializing, where vintage and innovation unite

Materials and finishes all have that well-used look â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the steel is aged and the wood has been processed to convey a time-worn look

june/july 2013

Wire glass cabinet doors and artisan-crafted caged suspension lights in fashionable black reinforce the retro industrial concept

ultimate kitchens section

For the grill master who wants it all, this professional unit is outfitted with stainless steel cabinets, a heavy-duty rotisserie, warming drawer, double side burners, an undercounter refrigerator, storage and more Kitchen Style: Outdoor Summary: A luxury outdoor kitchen wouldn’t be complete without a state-of-the-art grill – complete with plenty of cooking, warming and preparation space – plus a multi-million-dollar ocean view

Take it Outside

Take your kitchen wish list out the back door. It’s summer, after all, and the outdoors are beckoning. Products and materials abound to help you create your ultimate outdoor kitchen. Even in the open air, form takes as much precedence as function. Stainless steel commercial-grade grills with all the bells and whistles along with a designer patio set and complementary outdoor living furniture will complete the look. Whatever your kitchen style preference – from contemporary and classic to country and industrial – raise a glass in celebration of feel-good food, company, drink and design.

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Harbour city Kitchens

Matrix Marble

The 2013 winners will be showcased in the October/November 2013 issue of Homes & Living magazine and on HLmagazine.com. No purchase necessary. Only open to legal residents of Canada who are 18 years of age or older. To enter visit HLmagazine.com between 9 am (PST) June 1, 2013 and 11:59 am (PST) July 31, 2013 and fully complete and submit the entry form provided. Odds of winning depend on the number of eligible entries received. Full contest rules available at HLmagazine.com ÂŠ 2013. All rights reserved.

Thomas & Birch cabinetry

june/july 2013

Swiftsure Woodworkers ltd.

VIEW KITCHENS

H&Lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s inaugural Ultimate Kitchen Contest kitchen A Dark charcoal-stained millwork contrasts the bright floor, ceiling and countertops in this Gold CARE award-winning kitchen. Design Swiftsure Woodworkers Ltd. Style Contemporary Square Footage 450

kitchen B This soft white traditional kitchen is a masterpiece that is also functional and practical.

HLMAGAZINE.COM

Design Harbour City Kitchens

Style Traditional/Hampton Square Footage 194

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kitchen C This luxury LEEDS kitchen, made from locally sourced materials, features Vancouver Island white marble. Design Matrix Marble/Griffin Design Kitchens Style Classic Square Footage 450

kitchen D Cool white, rich marble and warm walnut creates an inviting contemporary space. Design Thomas and Birch Cabinetry

Square Footage 312

june/july 2013

Style Contemporary

Feature renovation

Remodelled, Refreshed & Restored

A 90-year-old Cedar Hill home is expanded, gutted and rebuilt into a state-of-the-art modern-day classic that honours the original architecture Some of the most beautiful and inspiring designs are born from the successful connection between the past and the present. Natural, handcrafted materials, strong architectural features and a solid commitment to honouring the founding characteristics of a home can come together to create the perfect blend of historic elegance and contemporary style. Connecting the rich, robust finishes of a traditional home with the fresh, enlightening lines and shapes of modern materials was the delicate task Space Setters Construction and two dedicated homeowners achieved at Sonria Hideaway in Victoria. The 5,300-square-foot single-level home is tucked away in a relaxed, welcoming neighbourhood where heritage and rejuvenation meet and meld. The home is situated on a triple lot â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a rare treasure in the city that opened up endless possibilities for integration between a well-designed interior and a patient, unfolding landscape that is both playful and serene. Custom home builder John Kennedy, owner of Space Setters Construction, along with his talented foreman, Jake Wenaus, say their renovation and new build company was an ideal choice for the project because it represents a new way of approaching custom home development. â&#x20AC;&#x153;[The way] we conduct our business is hands-on,â&#x20AC;? says Kennedy, who says with their combined 30 years of experience in construction and design in Calgary and in Victoria, they can streamline the process and add value to the overall service offering.

Words by Jessica Krippendorf photographs by tony puerzer

Sonria

Hideaway june/july 2013

designed with a chef in mind

Although Sonria Hideaway’s original 3,500 square feet was expanded to 5,300, to call the project a renovation seems unusual, he adds. The structure was completely gutted and rebuilt, from new foundations, new framing, a new boiler for in-floor heat, new smart wiring and even new patios. The expansion involved extending the kitchen, and adding a highly functional mudroom, butler’s pantry and massive sunken great room with a 12-foot ceiling. From the street, the grey/taupe stucco exterior expands the home visually, while white trim and black accents remain true to an early 1900s aesthetic. Radius-curved windows and patio archways, replicated in the concrete terraces and winding stone pathways, connect the building to the grounds. While the flawless exterior stucco is refined and rich, double-hung wooden windows and lantern sconce lighting capture the essence of the original property.

Approaching the side entrance, one cannot help but feel welcomed by an enormous indoor/outdoor fireplace, which is accented by a large patio. The home moves graciously away from the street in a series of stepped facades that keep the building’s mass authentic at eye level. A cozy portico welcomes visitors through radius archways to a solid wood door with partitioned sidelights. The back of the property features a Tuscan-like outdoor lanai with a stainless steel outdoor kitchen any barbeque enthusiast would die for. This covered, outdoor cooking and living space is made for enjoyment with a generous rough wood table, plenty of stainless steel counter space and a commercial-grade natural gas BBQ. A circular wicker chandelier hangs over the table, making a warm connection to the natural environment. In the future, an authentic stone pizza oven, outdoor wood fireplace and gazebo will transform this space into an engaging entertainment mecca.

The exterior’s striking combination of clean lines and soft, curving surfaces come to life at the main entrance on the south side of the property where radius arches guide the eye along an intricate facade to twin balcony patios. Between them, the glass entry is surrounded by paned sidelights and flanked with matching assemblies. A generous stairway accented with handcrafted wrought iron details leads to a gradual concrete patio below. The interior aesthetic achieves a gracious nod to the home’s heritage distinction, while incorporating luxurious fine finishes and soft tones and textures. The flooring through most of the main living area is wide plank seven-inch-dimension walnut, with slate stone in the kitchen, mudroom and laundry area, and leading out to the lanai to extend the living space. Archways with columns to the left of the entry lead to a general living area where gorgeous chaise lounges and an antique table are accented with hints of sparkle in glass and silver accents, and

a wall-sized silver framed mirror doubles the room’s visual size. Abundant natural light streams through enormous windows. The far wing is entirely dedicated to the master bedroom and the master bath – a spa-like space where serenity beckons with a glass-enclosed steam and rain shower assembly, and jetted bathtub. A round pebble tile floor in the shower and granite surround on the bathtub are natural, grounding features that complement the room’s peaceful ambiance. Generous individual raised vanities surrounded by a glass tile backsplash in green and beige earth tones take double sinks to a whole new level. A black, honed granite counter connects the room to the rest of the home’s palette, and a gas fireplace creates warm, inviting ambiance. In the main space, a classically styled powder room features ornate textured wallpaper and a simple framed glass mirror. A rectangular raised-glass sink sits delicately atop an underlit floating vanity with a tempered glass countertop. The space is simple, but rich in its finishes and visual appeal.

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New Installations

The chef’s dream kitchen is outfitted with six sinks, four fridges, three dishwashers and an industrial stove

To the right of the entry, a beautiful barrel ceiling announces the entrance to the kitchen – without question, the heart of the home. Crown moulding and glass doors announce this space, which homeowners Tony and Karen have dreamed of for years. “I love cooking,” says Tony. “It’s definitely my passion. We were inspired by the kitchen because it’s where everyone gathers.” Industrial pivoting spotlights shine onto a generous 17-foot island made for the ultimate culinary experience. A charcoal quartz counter makes the structure the room’s focal point and welcomes visitors to pop-up seating on one end. Quartz perimeter counters stretch beneath off-white overhead cabinets – a select few with stainless steel frames and opaque glass that lighten the space and add a touch of shine. The same toned cabinets appear below, and the uniformity adds visual space and warmth to the room. Glass rectangular tiles create a subtle backdrop for stainless steel appliances including Tony’s prized possession – an industrial-grade gas range and grill. “I swear I planned this whole renovation around this stove,” says Tony. “I’ve wanted it for 10 years.” An oversized stainless hood fan is flanked by built-in shelving on either side where spices and herbs are within easy reach. A stainless steel fridge and built-in espresso machine, steam oven with warming tray and dishwasher create sleek lines in the beautiful and highly functional space. “We’ve had 20 people in here and no one was in the way, because everyone can see and move,” says Tony. Between the kitchen and the lanai, a large mudroom and large butler’s pantry feature an upright commercial-grade combination fridge and freezer – a treat for any chef. A moulded sink and stainless counter sit over grey lacquer cabinets, in this space and in a tucked-away butler’s pantry. At the end of the kitchen leading to the dining area, a bar nook features black cabinets and a mirrored backsplash with a fitting high-end sparkle. The deep tones tuck this space away, while square textured pulls on the cabinets are a contemporary twist on antique hammered metal.

A dinner should look appetizing before the food arrives.

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The natural flow and variation in a Cambria countertop calls people to dinner.

Beyond a set of glass doors is the dining room – a classically styled, welcoming space with abundant natural light and a brilliant complement of today and yesterday in the finishes and accents.

frames the room. Flames arise from crushed glass in a rectilinear gas fireplace, and a flat-screen television is a natural addition to the space above.

The delicate art of layering neutral tones and textures truly shines here – a plaster wall with an art nook over the hearth of a new originally inspired fireplace is the room’s centrepiece, complemented by mirror-backed glass shelves and off-white lacquered lower cabinets. Warms shades of white and cream make this room enchanting and gracious, and stunning silver accents achieve timeless contrast and beauty combined with the arched doors leading out to the patio.

Warm, sophisticated ambiance is created with an abstract silver wire chandelier, softened by its spherical shape. On the back wall, double doors with transom-inspired overhead panes lead to the lanai, creating a dynamic and natural flow between the spaces.

The great room’s style is purposefully more contemporary than the rest of the home, but ties in without pause. A set of radius-curved steps lead to the lowered space, which opens up to 12-foot ceilings. A modern fireplace features a granite tiled hearth and surround that stretches upward to the coffered ceiling, which neatly

Kennedy says the company’s success was enhanced by a positive, symbiotic relationship with the homeowners. “They were amazing,” he says. “They were open-minded and willing to work with our suggestions. They also picked almost everything in the finishes and really did their homework.” Although the project had its challenges, Kennedy says the homeowners’ know-how and the company’s expertise were a perfect match. “The homeowners had great vision, and we have a lot of foresight into what works for function and form,” says Kennedy.

Unparalled Canadian Quality Exquisite In-House Design

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june/july 2013

Canadian Made

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and the Studio of Treasures

Interviews With Exceptional Artists

Mary

Expressions

From her home studio and gallery, Mary Fox creates beautiful works of art pleasing to the eye and to the touch

Words by Melissa Fryer

“It was love at first touch.”

That’s just the start. Downstairs, in her gallery beneath her home in Ladysmith, BC, the plates, bowls and mugs – what Fox describes as functional pottery – rest alongside vessels and sculptures, pieces designed with simply form in mind. “There’s a very definite line there,” Fox said. Her decorative pieces are one of a kind, and found in galleries and private collections all over the world. Exhibits took her work to places like Japan and parts of Europe to display a distinctive style that is hers alone. The potter is entirely self-taught. A Grade 8 art class introduced Fox to pottery, among other artistic disciplines, but it was the potential that lay in a clump of clay that caught her imagination. By the time she was in Grade 9, she was sculpting. Her first piece was a four-inch sculpture of a choir singer. The potter’s wheel often wasn’t available during class, so Fox worked out an arrangement to use it during one of her teacher’s drawing classes. And at lunch and after school. By Grade 11, Fox was teaching night classes on throwing. “It was love at first touch,” Fox said. “It was an immediate connection.” Living on Vancouver Island in the 1970s afforded Fox the opportunity to visit working potters in their studios. Most were production potters and able to make a living doing what they loved. That’s what Fox wanted, too, and she sought ways to set up

her own shop, despite shyness that was almost painful at times. “It took a lot for me to go into the studios,” Fox said. But it was her dream, so she did. In the mid-1980s, she began experimenting with decorative pieces and developed her own glazes, giving the vessels an unearthed look, as if they dated from antiquity. Like the pottery from ancient civilizations, each piece is irreplaceable once damaged. The glazes, which Fox is known for, use a variety of minerals, like copper and lithium, and were developed through trial and error. Works are glazed and fired in her kiln, and then re-fired as many as five times, depending on the outcome of each step. “It’s very distinctively my own,” Fox said. “It’s not influenced by other people.” Those decorative pieces paved the way for Fox to return to sculpture. Pulling influence from the Gulf Islands, she crafted tidal pools that resembled natural sandstone formations. Using her knowledge of glazing, she used a style called crawl – a textured pattern built by layering different colours – in the bowls to create the illusion of water. The tidal pools evolved into the Mother Earth series – inspired in part by Earth Day – which feature a woman reclining on a beach and further morphed into a mother cradling a child (see left). Each piece takes about 40 hours of work. “I’ve really only begun my sculpting career,” Fox said. The sculptures and their size necessitated the need to renovate her home, gallery and workspace. But it was also the death of her partner and the need to change her surroundings, which were so influenced by the memories attached to her old house, that led to the two-and-a-half year renovation.

june/july 2013

Art is all around Mary Fox – from her first cup of coffee in the morning, sipped from a mug created in her pottery studio, its vibrant colour waking up the eye and its weight and shape comfortable in the hands. Bowls, plates and dishes in complementing colours – deep blues and greens, earthy orange and browns – add joy to the food and company gathered around them.

Like the pottery from ancient civilizations, each piece is irreplaceable once damaged

Rather than demolishing the house, she chose to rebuild, lifting the living area to the second floor and creating her workspace and gallery below. She drew out the plans, deciding the size of each room and where it should be situated, before Victoria-based architect Ernest Hanson created the final designs for construction. “It’s the most self-indulgent thing I’ve ever done,” Fox said. In the expanded gallery and workspace, Fox is able to leave her sculptures in place to dry for several days, rather than moving from one spot to the next to free up room for other projects, displays or consultations with buyers. Visitors to the gallery can also see her works in progress. Drawing people from around the world to Ladysmith and her gallery is Fox’s goal. Flying to exhibits around the world would be exhausting and time-consuming, and draw resources away from Fox’s work on her pottery. Her pieces are still shipped across the globe, but she wants to remain in one spot with her focus directly on her craft. “I really want to bloom here,” Fox said. “Doing the work is what it’s all about.” Aside from her own Ladysmith gallery, Fox’s work can also be found in the Bugera Matheson Gallery in Edmonton, Alta., Eclectic Gallery in Victoria and in Vancouver galleries Circle Craft and the Gallery of BC Ceramics. Despite moonlighting as a designer and architect, Fox has no plans to forsake pottery and pursue other artistic interests like cooking, gardening or painting. Clay still remains to be sculpted and thrown, and mineral combinations in glazes still wait to be discovered. “I’m always inspired,” Fox said. “My problem is there’s only one lifetime.” Fox’s gallery is located at 321 Third Avenue in Ladysmith and open to visitors Tuesday to Saturday, 1-5 pm. For information, call 250.245.3778 or visit maryfoxpottery.ca

june/july 2013

Living Well

Five-star Health & Wellness

Infrared Therapy Heats up the Spa World

Words by Pamela Durkin

This hot new trend is poised to be one that endures

So what exactly is infrared therapy and why is it so beneficial? The term infrared refers to a type of light wave that lies just below “visible” light on the electromagnetic spectrum. Infrared waves are not visible to the human eye – our bodies detect them as radiant heat. Unlike other forms of heat, the radiant heat from infrared waves penetrates deep below the skin’s surface where it stimulates the deeper tissues and organs to release stored toxins, fat and waste. Studies indicate that while the sweat produced by regular physical exertion or traditional saunas contains 3% toxic material, the sweat produced by infrared treatment contains 15 to 20% toxic matter. This penetrating warmth also boosts blood circulation and increases metabolism. These factors translate into tangible health benefits, as some compelling research has shown. Just what has the white-coat crowd discovered about infrared therapy’s healing potential? Plenty. Studies show infrared therapy can: improve joint pain and stiffness, alleviate asthma symptoms, help lower blood pressure, improve cardiac function, speed healing from infections and sports injuries, alleviate stress, and help battle fatigue and mild depression. If that doesn’t impress you, consider this: a recent study published in the Canadian Journal of Diabetes showed that infrared treatment

was able to safely lower weight and waist circumference – without dietary changes – in overweight and obese patients, in just three months. For those who were sedentary due to medical reasons, the results were even more profound. In addition, another Canadian study, conducted by the Department of Family Medicine at UBC, revealed that 20 minutes of infrared treatment, three times per week, improved the fatigue, social functioning and general health of those with type 2 diabetes. But the good news doesn’t end there. Not only can infrared therapy help you feel better, it can also help you look better too. It does this by boosting collagen production and increasing the skin’s overall tone and elasticity. Inherent in this wide range of therapeutic applications is infrared’s multi-generational appeal – it literally offers something for every “body”. Not surprisingly, spas, with a sharp eye for the bottom line, have taken note. According to SpaFinder, at least one in five spas now offers some form of infrared treatment. “For us it’s been a gateway treatment,” enthuses Crystal Chabot, manager of Victoria’s popular LeSpa Sereine. “People come initially to try the infrared sauna, feel better after a few sessions and then are intrigued and enticed to try out some of our other services. It’s been a great addition to the spa.” Of course, homeowners with deep pockets need never book a spa appointment to reap the benefits of infrared treatment. Traditional infrared saunas and the newer infrared-heated marble chaise lounges can be purchased for home use. According to the Italian artisans that produce them, the latter have the advantage of being mobile, elegant and easily outfitted with plugs for laptops and iPhones. Enhancing your decor whilst enhancing your health – that’s a trend certain to endure with style- and health-conscious consumers.

june/july 2013

According to the influential website SpaFinder, today’s sophisticated spa-goers want more than mere pampering – they’re seeking results-oriented treatments that significantly enhance their well-being. In an effort to meet this demand, the spa industry is increasingly turning to infrared therapy and with good reason; backed by solid clinical evidence, infrared therapy is emerging as a treatment that can progressively move the body toward a state of optimum health.

legacy

Words by robert pesti

Wealth Management and Investment Advice

know what you want Could your financial goals use a reassessment? Consider a tailored approach to money management The halfway point of any year is a good time to reassess, ponder and be introspective about your year’s financial goals. It’s also a great time to take stock of your longer-term financial desires. As a financial advisor with 27 years of experience, I have helped many people evaluate what they want out of life and achieve it. I am amazed at the inefficiency of people’s financial structures and how many are incomplete. The following is an example of one situation I was able to improve.

Situation A widow was receiving a healthy pension income, mostly from her deceased husband, plus she inherited a capital sum from the death of her mother. She didn’t need cash, but her investing personality was safe and conservative. Low interest rates plus her high tax bracket was causing her to have low after-tax returns on her interest income. She didn’t have children and wasn’t very close to any family members, so most of her estate was to go to a few charities.

Solution For part of her portfolio I recommended she consider a backto-back annuity with the capital portion gifted to the charities

immediately. This gave her an equivalent guaranteed return before tax of close to 7.5% – compared to 2.5% on her GICs. The backto-back annuity (which is a life annuity combined with special insurance to return the capital to the estate) creates about a 5% return. Once the annuity is approved and established, the capital portion is donated to the charity so they receive the capital when she dies – exactly the same way her current affairs are arranged. The capital donation allows a certain portion of her annuity income to be deducted now and enables her to use her charitable credits while she is alive. It is important to note she would lose most of her charitable credits when she dies, as she did not have enough offsetting income to use up the deductions.

Summary By combining her overall financial desires and listening to what she wanted to accomplish, I was able to design a creative solution that tripled her current GIC return without having to take more risk. By being able to use the future charitable credits today and not waste them in her estate, I was able to help improve her financial situation.

H&L APRIL/MAY 2012 FEATURE HOME

TERRY JOHAL DEVELOPMENTS QUALITY CUSTOM HOME BUILDER AND RENOVATOR

june/july 2013

terryjohaldevelopments.com 250.418.1660

Escape

destinations near & far

great expectations of london An insiderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s guide to the best places to stay, shop and eat in London from Kensington to Mayfair to Marble Arch

Words by Claire Newell

London is considered by many one of the world’s most vibrant and multicultural cities. It also happens to be one of my favourite places to visit. There really are no limits to the types of vacations you can have in London. Whether it’s a shopping trip, a romantic getaway or a family vacation – London has something for everyone.

custom made affordable

Building Green on Vancouver Island for 20 years. There is so much to see and do in London that I recommend having a game plan. Being in the travel industry for almost 20 years has definitely given me some insight into planning a memorable London vacation, so I am going to cover my picks for where to stay, what to see, where to shop and where to eat.

ERhom AF

250.746.5372 coulsondesign@shaw.ca davidcoulsondesign.com

Where to Stay Kensington is one of London’s most posh areas and is a great option for those seeking a high-end hotel experience. Business travellers will probably want to stay in or near the district, The City of London – the city’s historic core and the heart of London’s financial sector. There are tons of incredible hotels in London so it was difficult to narrow down to just two of my favourites in this incredible city, but here they are…

Salon Spa

Milestone Hotel - Kensington Broadmead Village Shopping Centre 180 - 777 Royal Oak Dr. Victoria, BC Phone: 250 590 8337

5 trajan

salonfelice.com

june/july 2013

The Milestone (see left) is perhaps the most famous boutique hotel in London, and certainly lives up to high expectations. Each room is individually and exquisitely designed with its own stunning decor. You definitely won’t have that typical hotel room feel when relaxing in your room at the Milestone. Its health club is complete with spa, fitness centre, resistance pool and a sauna. The staff is expertly trained and guests receive a welcome drink and butler-guided tour on arrival. The Milestone has a chauffeur service, but you likely won’t need it with the hotel’s close proximity to West End shops and restaurants.

where

to shop in london Oxford Street Considered the heart of London with more than 300 shops and big name stores like Selfridges and Top Shop.

Regent Street A range of mid-priced fashion stores alongside historic shops like Hamley’s Toy Store, which first opened in 1790.

bond Street & Mayfair Popular with celebrities for extravagant retail therapy.

Carnaby Street Birthplace of the swinging ’60s and home to independent boutiques.

Knightsbridge The prestigious shops here were a favourite of Princess Diana. Stop in at Harrods, the famed department store. Make a pit stop at Lola’s Cupcakes for tea and something sweet.

Notting Hill Portobello Road Market is a must-see with a vibrant array of different stalls open daily.

What to See in London

Bikeworldtravel / Shutterstock.com

Make a point to see some of London’s outstanding museums, like the Natural History Museum, National Gallery, Tate Britain, Tate Modern, British Museum, the Victoria and Albert Museum, and the Wallace Collection. Famous landmarks like Buckingham Palace, the London Eye, the Tower of London and Westminster Abbey also really shouldn’t be missed.

Given the urban cityscape of London, on nice days London’s parks are where people gather to enjoy some fresh air. Hyde Park, St. James Park and Richmond Park are great for picnics, strolls and bike rides. London has some of the best entertainment options in the world. The West End of London is the theatre district and live music can be seen everywhere from tiny cafés to large venues.

be inspired. book your consultation today

Thomas&Birch 

www.thomasandbirch.com 2a 1609 Blanshard Street 250 381 5123

june/july 2013

because style, function & quality matter

where

to eat in london London has some of the best restaurants in the world. Every cuisine at pretty much any price range exists in London. There is not enough room in one article to list them all but here are some of my favourites:

St. James Hotel - Mayfair Previously owned by Sir Michael Caine and Sir Sean Connery, this striking building sits in a quiet cul-de-sac in prestigious Mayfair. Before St. James’ was a luxury boutique hotel, it was an exclusive gentlemen’s club. A multi-million pound renovation not too long ago brought gorgeous furnishings and high-tech perks such as free WiFi and iPod docks. An outstanding feature here is the Michelin-star restaurant directed by executive chef William Drabble. The hotel is also filled with renowned cubist paintings and is in close proximity to shopping and Buckingham Palace.

Hakkasan - hakkasan.com Zuma - zumarestaurant.com Roka - rokarestaurant.com River Café - rivercafe.co.uk Bocca di Lupo - boccadilupo.com Sketch - sketch.uk.com Sketch is a must-visit with five restaurants (the Gallery, the Lecture Room, the Parlour, the Glade and the East Bar) and an art gallery. The building itself is an art exhibit with lots to see, including the most expensive bathroom in London made entirely of Swarovski crystals and another futurist bathroom with pod-like toilets. Madonna had her 50 th birthday party at Sketch!

“Creators of the Legacy Lifestyle Program”

Head Office 104B - 3550 Saanich Rd Victoria, BC P. 250 480 1095

Fort Street Office 4th Floor - 888 Fort St Victoria, BC P. 250 475 3443

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CREATE. SCULPT. FORM. HAIR. MASTERS OF CONTEMPORARY BEAUTY

june/july 2013

1215 Broad Street | Victoria | 250.920.5710

art fix

Art Gallery of Greater Victoria

A handpicked selection of influential prints from AGGVâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Kiyoshi Saito collection serves as inspiration for printmakers and art enthusiasts alike on the concepts of absence and simplicity in abstract art

Above. Snow and Sunset, 1975. Gift of Ron Longstaffe. AGGV 1995.041.001

Words by Courtney Rosborough

Absently

Influential:

The Art of Kiyoshi Saito

Absence Is what we see truly what we get? What about all that does not exist in front of us? Does it not also contribute to our experience? For the 10-year resurrection of The Art of Kiyoshi Saito exhibit at the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria (AGGV), curator Barry Till narrowed the 130-piece collection down to 80 prints. He deliberately excluded 50 prints. Their absence shapes our experience by informing what we know. In woodcut printmaking, substance is taken away to create art. This absence, too, shapes our knowledge. Who knew that what isn’t there could be so influential? Visitors to this influential AGGV exhibit will be submerged in the concepts of absence and simplicity for which Saito is known. A powerhouse in eastern Asian art, the AGGV is renowned for its impressive collection of Japanese exhibits. This year the AGGV is especially excited to showcase the second-largest collection of Saito prints outside of Japan. Till took great pains to narrow down his selection from the original 130-print collection.

Saito favoured subjects and themes such as landscapes, architecture, portraits and his most popular, animals. Some of Till’s favourites include a comical depiction of three chickens and a group of cats that uses wood grain to create the texture of their fur.

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I have displayed my most personal favourites, Till stated. I wanted to show Saito’s great variety and picked the best pieces from each subject so you are left with a good overview of what he has done.

Above. Jealousy, ND. Fred and Isabel Pollard Collection. AGGV 1967.174.001

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He married eastern subject matter beautifully with western concepts, creating a style that was unmistakably his own

Abstract Developments | Photograph by Joshua Lawrence jl-studios.com

By leaving things out, Saito made his pieces accessible

Process Kiyoshi Saito (1907-1997) was an award-winning, influential artist and grand master of his time. He began his career in Japan as a self-employed sign painter and studied art in Tokyo in 1932. While there, he was introduced to western concepts like modernism, cubism, abstraction and impressionism – concepts that reject realism – that later influenced his woodblock prints.

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In 1938, he produced his first series, Winter in Aizu, which depicts winter landscapes from his hometown in Japan. Selftaught and influenced by other great Japanese printmakers like Onchi and cubists like Picasso, Saito took pride in his woodcut printing, having a hand in his art every step of the way. He created the design, drew on the wood, cut away the wood, placed the ink and printed the prints. Till said by leaving things out, not trying to elaborate, Saito strove to make his pieces accessible. Due to the nature of woodblock printmaking, Saito was able to create multiple one-of-a-kind prints from one woodblock. Woodblock (woodcut) printing is an art form of precision as the artist cuts away wood to create an image. Ink is then transferred to the wood and a sheet of paper pressed on top to create the print. This type of printmaking is similar to stamps or silk screening of today.

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Saito invented his own ideas and adapted works of other printmakers. He focused on simple patterns and paid expert attention to the grains of wood and used them creatively in his final product. Compositions of textures and colours were Saito’s focus. He married eastern subject matter beautifully with western concepts, creating a style that was unmistakably his own.

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Top. May in Aizu (1), 1988. Harold and Vera Mortimer Lamb Purchase Fund. AGGV 1991.013.001 Middle. Suspicious Eyes, 1973. Fred and Isabel Pollard Collection. AGGV 1975.007.001 Bottom. Miroku, 1957. Fred and Isabel Pollard Collection. AGGV 1966.051.001

Influence In Japan, self-expression took the form of the sosaku hanga movement, literally meaning “original creative print.” Its grand master Saito became an international name for the movement and for printmaking. In 1951, Saito was awarded the San Paulo Biennale award for contemporary art alongside another Japanese printmaker. This was a pivotal moment for contemporary and Japanese art, and was the first change toward wide acceptance of printmaking as an art form. Saito became a household name not only in Japan, but internationally. His shows were sold out through the 1980s and ’90s. The earth tones, the simplicity and the subject matter made his prints a great addition and conversation piece for any room. Saito did not cater to the public; he didn’t create art for art’s sake, but rather created art for the love of it. If you want to be inspired by a grand master of the contemporary arts, do not miss this exhibit. Till says it is a must-see for all printmakers. Whether it is your first visit or your one hundredth, this ever-evolving collection of woodblock prints is a sight to see with fresh eyes. The Art of Kiyoshi Saito exhibit opens at the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria June 21, 2013 and runs until November 3, 2014. Public tours will be available, as well as videos on how printmaking is done.

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Homes & Living magazine and the Interior Design Show West (IDSwest) are pleased to announce an H&L Feature Home will be on display at the 2013 IDSwest show, September 19-22 at the Vancouver Convention Centre. This contemporary laneway home will be built and designed to the most energy-efficient and green standards available today. This 500-square-foot leading-edge-design home will be a focal point for discussion of affordable living, good design and laneway housing. Plus, it will be outfitted with the latest in luxury furnishings and decor, and state-of-the-art smart home systems from Millson Technologies, Vancouver. Award-winning custom home builder and major renovation specialist Alair Homes will be building the home in conjunction with leading Vancouver interior designer and Pinterest celebrity – with more than 300,000 followers and 6 million Flickr page views – Gaile Guevara. Come down to IDSwest, the West Coast’s premiere annual contemporary design show, to see this exclusive custom home and meet the entire H&L team. Homes & Living and IDSwest look forward to an absolutely sensational 2013 event. IDSwest idswest.com Homes & Living magazine 1.855.myHLmag (694.5624) HLmagazine.com READ media inc. Publishers of Homes & Living magazine

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words on the street

Stories Behind local Streets

tod road A Diamond in the Rough 106

Words by Danda Humphreys

A fiery fur trader becomes Oak Bay’s first retiree The man it is named for, John Tod, was larger than life, but Tod Road is surprisingly small – a quiet surprise that leads east off Cadboro Bay, between Dalhousie and Hamiota. Tod Road is actually more like a short, narrow country lane, with unpretentious homes and neat gardens on one side, and a school playing field on the other. It seems to lead to nowhere in particular. But just a couple of blocks east, as the crow flies, is Heron Street. There you’ll find one of the oldest private residences in western Canada – the house that Tod built. John Tod was an early settler in these parts. Like his fellow former Hudson’s Bay Company employees, Tod had, for decades, thrived on challenge and adversity. To the uninitiated, the southern tip of Vancouver Island might have been an isolated wilderness, but to Tod, it was the latest in a series of challenges that had punctuated his life.

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When Tod arrived, he found that the land closest to the fort at the foot of Fort Street had already been snapped up by HBC men and British government employees, but there was still plenty of good land left to go around. Tod chose a secluded spot in the wilderness about eight kilometres from the fort. Looking at this thriving residential area today, it’s hard to imagine that just over 160 years ago, the “road to civilization” was a simple trail leading from the First Nations settlement at Cadboro Bay across the countryside to the east gate of the HBC fort, at present-day Fort and Government streets.

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John Tod was the first of many HBC retirees who, after years of arduous adventures at various HBC outposts, accepted Fort Victoria chief James Douglas’ invitation to end his days in peace in the little colony established by Douglas in 1843. After 37 years with the HBC, living in much more difficult conditions at fur trading posts across this vast nation, Tod viewed the somewhat primitive settlement at Fort Victoria as a welcome change.

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To the uninitiated, the southern tip of Vancouver Island might have been an isolated wilderness, but to Tod, it was the latest in a series of challenges that had punctuated his life

Tod’s 406 acres (imagine the dollar value of that land today!) was soon surrounded on three sides by HBC and other farms. But in 1851, when he first stood on the wood-slatted front porch of his six-room, squared-log house, he was lord and master of all he surveyed. His land, comprising rolling fields studded with Garry oak trees, stretched from just east of the cow trail called Cedar Hill Cross Road, south to Tod Stream (now Bowker Creek) and all along the water-lapped curve of Willows Beach. It even included a small island just off the waterfront that he eventually named after one of his daughters. This was a very different existence for the man who had endured a poor upbringing in Scotland, then lived on the fur trading scene since his early 20s. Over the decades, Tod had quickly become known among HBC men and

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Previous Page. John Tod. Royal BC Museum, BC Archives A-01618. Above. The John Tod house in Oak Bay. Royal BC Museum, BC Archives A-02985. Right. Mrs. John Tod, nee Sophia Lolo; she married Mr. Tod in August 1863, when he was 69 years old. Royal BC Museum, BC Archives A-01483.

natives alike as a dour and difficult fellow with a fiery temper. At one point, getting on the wrong side of HBC governor Sir George Simpson cost him nine precious years of his life when he was banished to isolated Fort McLeod with none but the First Nations for company. But his fierce courage stood him in good stead. While he was Chief Trader at Kamloops in the 1840s, he reportedly single-handedly saved Fort Kamloops from marauding natives by threatening to blow up the fort and everything in it – including himself and the native warriors – with a keg of gunpowder that lay broken and open, ready at his feet. Finally free from the day-to-day battle for survival at several different New Caledonia outposts, Tod settled into his Oak Bay home and became the quintessential family man.

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Never lacking female companionship, he had a succession of wives and companions over the years. The latest of these, a native woman by the name of Sophia Lolo, was 30 years his junior when they became partners in the mid-1840s. At Oak Bay, she produced five more children to add to his growing brood. Tod finally married Sophia in 1864, partly to legitimize the status of second daughter Mary, who was about to marry John Bowker, and partly to silence Catherine, a long-ago first companion and mother of his son James, who had reappeared on the scene claiming to be Mrs. Tod.

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Retirement suited John Tod. He was a great party man – his flute and fiddle were regular features during lively evenings at his home and elsewhere – and he was a respected elder statesman in the little town of Victoria. Between 1851 and 1858, he served as a member of the legislative council – a three-man HBC group that replaced the one-man rule of James Douglas – and over the next 30 years continued to be active on the local political scene.

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John Tod died in 1882 at the ripe old age of 90, and was buried in Ross Bay Cemetery, soon to be joined by Sophia, his last and most devoted wife. Today Tod House, at 2485 Heron Street, is designated as a heritage home, too frail for curious feet. But next time you stroll along Tod Road, Heron Street or Bowker Place, or gaze out at Mary Tod Island from the foot of Bowker Avenue, pause for a moment and remember John Tod – our first and most famous retiree.

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haunting of...

Words by John Adams

Ghosts of Vancouver Island

the royal theatre a 100-year-old locale notoriously haunted by spirits and spooks If you’re looking for ghosts, go to a theatre. That is standard advice among ghost hunters around the world. There is something about the intense energy expended by actors and other performers during rehearsals and productions that seems to stay rooted on stage and in the building. That might explain, too, why many actors are superstitious, prone to carrying good-luck talismans and why there are many taboos associated with their craft. One of the best known is never to wish an actor good luck before a performance, but to say “break a leg.” Victoria has an active performing arts scene, so it’s not surprising to discover there are a number of haunted theatres in the city: McPherson Playhouse, Langham Court, the Belfry, the Phoenix at the University of Victoria and the Royal. The Royal, now a National Historic Site, is celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2013, so has a long history of hauntings. Even the origin of the name has links with the paranormal in old England. Until shortly before it opened it was to be called the McBride Theatre after Premier Sir Richard McBride, but at the last minute it was changed to the Royal, a name long associated with haunted theatres. One of Victoria’s first theatres during the days of the Fraser River Gold Rush was in a converted log barn on Government Street. It was named the Royal, probably after either the Theatre Royal in Drury Lane or one of the same name in Bath – both notoriously spooky places. The choice of names for Victoria’s log-barn theatre and for the new one built in 1913 was appropriate because they both lived up to the haunted reputations of their namesakes. Recently at the Royal a technician working alone late one night had a scare that caused him to leave. Years ago a projection booth had been built in the upper balcony, but was no longer needed, so it was

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converted to a control room for the spotlights and sound system. Tinted glass allowed the technicians to see out without the audience being able to easily see them. When new equipment was installed the technician waited until the building was empty to make his first tests. Suddenly he saw a man’s face looking over his shoulder, appearing as a reflection in the tinted glass. He was startled and turned to confront the intruder, but no one was there. He blamed it on the fact that it was late and he was sleepy. Then it happened again, but this time he saw a man’s face over one shoulder and a woman’s face over the other. He decided it was time to go home and continue his tests another time. A man’s ghost in formal evening attire has sometimes been seen leaning over the balcony railing in the new eastern lobby. The first time he made his appearance was in 1990 when a large religious group rented the Royal. Sessions were to be broadcast worldwide and television monitors were set up on the balcony for the benefit of delegates. After a late meeting, a lone custodian was left to vacuum the lobby and set it up for the morning. He repeatedly saw the ghost looking over the railing at him, but thought at first it was one of the attendees who had stayed behind. He searched for the man, but to no avail. As he walked back to his vacuum cleaner, all the television monitors, which had been turned off earlier in the evening, suddenly turned on. From that night onward he refused to work alone. Staff at the Royal have had many other frightening experiences such as seats flipping up and down on their own, the sound of whispering, shadows crossing the stage when no one is there, being touched by an unseen hand and generally sensing they are not alone when they think they are. They take these things in stride. After all, it’s what you would expect in a 100-year-old theatre.

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Luxury two-bedroom condo in The Pier, an award-winning development offering spectacular ocean and marina views with the amenities of a world-class hotel. Chic designer style and superb quality is found throughout with a sleek custom kitchen, granite countertops, beautiful hardwood flooring, deluxe spa-like ensuites, expansive window walls and a sun-drenched deck.

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$10,900,000 | MLS# 316214

$1,199,000 | MLS# 320885

802 Rainbow Ridge,Victoria, BC

$739,000 | MLS# 317612

Inspired by the beauty of Canada’s West Coast, this southwest-facing oceanfront suite was constructed in perfect harmony with its surroundings. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame stunning views of the Saanich Inlet. Moorage is possible at the adjacent marina.The luxury of the five-star Brentwood Bay Resort, with all its lavish amenities, only steps away.

Enjoy expansive views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and Olympic Mountains from floor-to-ceiling windows. Environmentally conscious construction using natural materials inside a modern chic setting, with features fit for a home of this superior quality. Outside, relax on your spacious deck while enjoying one of the best vantage points in the city.

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Canadian Owned and Operated. E.&O.E.: This information is from sources which we deem reliable, but must be verified by prospective purchasers and may be subject to change or withdrawal.

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MOSES POINT VICTORIA, BC | $3,995,000 Enter through private gates to discover 1.7 acres of landscaped paradise, with 200 ft. of westfacing low bank oceanfront and phenomenal ocean views. The updated modern built home embodies Victorian style and charisma, built to superior standards with great attention to detail and craftsmanship throughout and featuring remarkable views from all principle rooms. The

MLS# 309112 gourmet kitchen is equipped with top-of-the-line appliances and features a central island. The master bedroom suite is over 1200 sq. ft. and features a spa-like ensuite and access to a patio to take in the ever-changing scenery. The property also houses a separate guest cottage, workshop and top-quality auto storage and parking. Feel miles away, but benefit from the nearby amenities.

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JAMES LEBLANC & SCOTT PIERCY

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WLISA WILLIAMS VILLA MADRONA a magnificent, 2 acre, gated estate with gracious 11,000 sq.ft. main residence, sports court, separate games/enter-tainment area, incredible swimming pool & home theatre, 9-car parking garage/carport, PLUS a separate 3461 sq.ft. renovated waterfront home & property w/separate title. Incredible views, custom finishing, imported fixtures and furnishings, expansive patios, boathouse & so much more . . . a world-class estate! $8,488,000

SPACIOUS LUXURY on the oceanfront! New custom hm with over 5700 sq.ft. and 6-7 bedrms, 7 baths, 4 car garage parking & so much more! Gorgeous HW and marble flrs, high ceilings, 2 master suite options, stunning, gourmet kitchen, deluxe home theatre, 2 bedrm in-law suite, PLUS separate studio . . . perfect for a home office, student space or an artist! Seaside patio with firepit, amazing views from all main rms and close to Mt. Doug trails, all amenities, UVic and shopping! $2,349,000

GRAND OCEANFRONT ESTATE on peaceful & private 1.61 acre property with stunning ocean views from all main rooms! 2006 built, with 5-6 bedrms/7 bths, 7000 sq.ft. and over 6000 sq.ft. of incredible seaside patios extending down to the water’s edge! This spectacular property enjoys a sunny south-east exposure and world-class views, and was designed to provide dramatic & inviting spaces both for family living and entertaining on a grand scale! Sep nanny suite, conservatory, exercise rm & so much more! $4,388,000

WORLD-CLASS WATERFRONT in prestigious 10 Mile Point! This sunny .55ac SOUTH/WEST facing property on a quiet cul-de-sac is one of the best in the area; exceptionally private w/out-of-this-world views! Over 150’ of low bank frontage w/large building envelope & lots of options to create a simply incredible new oceanfront estate! Enjoy abundant marine wildlife & easy access for boating, kayaking & fishing! $2,495,000

SUNNY ‘TUSCAN’ GATED ESTATE on a spectacular S/W facing, 2 acre property just 15 mins from downtown on exclusive ‘Tuscan Lane’! Stunning & luxurious custom 3+ bedrm, 5 bath villa w/incredible design & detailing, & elegant finishing throughout every aspect! Enjoy sun all day and lots of privacy, gorgeous salt-water pool, hot tub, heated outdoor dining terrace, professionally landscaped grounds, tons of parking and an unbelievable Italian feel! $2,448,000

SPECTACULAR .87 ACRE OCEANFRONT property with beautifully maintained & upgraded 4000 sq.ft. 4 bed/3 bth hm with sep office/studio! Enjoy incredible, panoramic ocean & Mt. Baker views from this lovely 10 Mile Point home in a peaceful setting close to Cadboro Bay Village! Sunny, open floorplan boasts large main level master suite w/deluxe new ensuite, skylights, lg kitchen w/ sunny breakfast area, sep. dining rm,, tons of storage for kayaks & boating gear, beautiful gardens & manicured lawns leading to seaside patio & FP! $1,988,000

STATELY & ELEGANT 6420 sq.ft. home in a private, gated Oak Bay setting . . . totally peaceful & quiet yet just steps to the Village! Beautiful architecture & tons of character throughout w/lots of options for family & entertaining! Incredible formal living rm, expansive formal dining rm, cozy den/library, sunny kitchen with adjacent family rm, conservatory, billiard room, 5 bedrms/5 bths & more . . . Gorgeous new slate/marble terrace boasts sun all day, perfect for outdoor living! $1,475,000

FABULOUS UPLANDS HOME w/tons of character and beautiful new reno’s! Stunning formal living rm, gorgeous new gourmet kitchen with all the extras, cozy sunroom, formal dining area, and fully finished lower level perfect for the teens or in-laws with a sep entry & lots of space! Main floor master plus 2 bedrms up and room to expand in unfinished attic too! Circular drive w/lots of privacy . . . a lovely Uplands home! $1,298,000

FANTASTIC FAMILY home in beautiful Tanner Ridge! 3 bedrms + den on the main level PLUS a legal 1 bedrm suite down . . . on a sunny & spacious 13,700 sq.ft. property! Just 2 years old, this custom home boasts lovely HW floors, stone fireplace, deluxe kitchen with central island, inviting master suite w/separate tub, shower, double sinks & heated flrs, air conditioning, sound system w/built-in speakers, spacious deck & glimpses of the ocean & Mt. Baker! $858,000

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Independently Owned and Operated

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MLS# 318250 impressive with expansive living, dining, family room and entertainment areas, fabulous gourmet kitchen, bar and wine cellar, nanny suite and much more. The grounds are simply spectacular with expansive outdoor kitchen with dining area and huge terraces, fire pit and fireplaces, covered sitting areas, and manicured lawns and gardens. A world-class estate in every way!

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Call Leslee Farrell at 250.514.9899 for assistance with your local and global real estate needs.

Classic 1912 Residence

Oak Bay Penthouse Ocean Views!

Stately Ocean View Manor

Carefully crafted in 1912 for the prominent Goodacre family, this classic character home retains the charm and grace of the era, while artfully transitioning to include present-day modern conveniences. The classic-beamed ceilings, fir and oak flrs., inglenook fireplace, grand porch and sunroom are as elegant as ever. Now the home enjoys a beautiful new Bart Griffin kitchen, top-of-the-line appliances, granite countertops, custom cabinets and a generous pantry to complement the era. Offering six BRs and four baths, there is room for all, including his and her offices. The gorgeous dining room with original built-in cabinets is ideal for family gatherings. The home is just steps from the village on a beautiful .33 acre garden, ready to move in!

Prepare to be impressed with this elegant luxury penthouse situated by Marina Bay in an exclusive 15-unit prestigious condominium development, directly across from the Oak Bay Marina. Enjoy breathtaking views of Mt. Baker and the Gulf Islands, with an ever-changing vista of marine traffic. This suite offers over 2,200 sq. ft. of exquisite living space, with the feature 21’ x 24’ living room opening to a circular balcony on the water side. The generous master suite also enjoys ocean views and morning light. The second bedroom has private bath and the inner den is a quiet retreat. The neighbourhood is idyllic with only a short stroll to Oak Bay Village. There are two secure underground parking spots. Don’t miss this amazing opportunity.

Built in 1926 and known as Bryn-y-Mor, this stately manor sits high on a beautifully landscaped .67 acre garden, enjoying majestic ocean views over the Victoria Golf Course to Trial Island, the Olympics and beyond! Offering six BRs and six baths in over 6,400 sq. ft., this fine home is ideal for a larger family that loves to entertain. Spacious gourmet kitchen opens to a 27 ft. viewing deck over the back garden and adjoins to the spacious 19 ft. dining room. Special features include Australian wood parquet floors, tiled fireplaces, feature bay windows, leaded glass, crown mouldings and French doors. The mature formal gardens offer paths, rockeries, patio and pond with ornamental bridge. Triple-garage and abundant outdoor parking.

$1,595,000 MLS# 320572

$1,795,000 MLS# 319539

$2,895,000 MLS# 320505

Macdonald Realty Ltd. 755 Humboldt St. Victoria, BC, Canada V8W 1B1 116

Direct: 250.514.9899 Office: 250.388.5882 leslee@lesleefarrell.com www.lesleefarrell.com

ADVERTISING SECTION

FEATURED LISTING: LESLEE FARRELL HOMES & LIVING PREMIER REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS

SOUTH OAK BAY - OCEAN VIEW! EXECUTIVE RESIDENCE - VICTORIA GOLF COURSE VICTORIA, BC | $2,575,000 This lovely executive luxury residence adjoins with the Victoria Golf Club greens, and enjoys spectacular views of the ocean, the Olympics and Mt. Baker! Masterfully designed under the hand of Pamela Charlesworth, this gem of a home is ideal for a couple or smaller family, offering three bedrooms and den. Warm and welcoming with tasteful decor, the main floor is designed

MLS# 319800 for entertaining, opening to an impressive patio to enjoy morning coffee or alfresco dining. The upper floor offers a unique ocean view master suite with his and her closets, plus separate ensuite baths, fireplace and balcony! This premier property is located in one of Oak Bayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s finest locations. Included is a wine cellar and bonus garden house, perfect for office or studio.

Call 250.514.9899 | leslee@lesleefarrell.com | lesleefarrell.com

june/july 2013

LESLEE FARRELL, MACDONALD REALTY LTD.

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H O M E S & L I V I N G P R O U D LY P R E S E N T S

THE H&L LANEWAY FEATURE HOME AT INTERIOR DESIGN SHOW WEST BID ON THIS HOME!* VISIT IDSwest SEP 19-22 VANCOUVER CONVENTION CENTRE

Interior Design by Internationally acclaimed Gaile Guevara

The 2013 IDSwest H&L Feature Home will be auctioned off on Saturday, Sept. 21, 2013. Come down to IDSwest to see and tour this innovative home, then place your bid to make it yours.

VISIT IDSwest AND TOUR THIS HOME! Homes & Living magazine proudly presents the H&L Laneway Feature Home, on-site at IDSwest 2013! This 500-square-foot leading-edge home, built by award-winning custom home builder Alair Homes with interior design by internationally acclaimed Gaile Guevara, will be dressed to impress with state-of-the-art technology, progressive architecture and will be outfitted with the latest in luxury furnishings and decor from world-class suppliers.

Discounted tickets to IDSwest 2013 are on sale now at idswest.com

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The Fast & The Luxurious

Words by Tony Whitney

Auto Trends & Test Drives

Super Coupes It’s arguable that almost all of the world’s most elegantly beautiful automobiles just happen to be sports coupes and, certainly, that segment has had its classic standouts over the years. Look back in time and you’ll discover the most lusted-after cars of years gone by were coupes by Bugatti, Ferrari, Alfa Romeo, Lancia, Aston Martin and a score of others.

toward coupes. There are technical benefits to closedcar design that have to do with rigidity. However well a convertible might be engineered, there’s always more platform flexing under hard driving conditions. The rigid bodyshell of a coupe will always provide an optimum amount of stiffness, with consequent handling benefits.

Why coupes are so popular with aficionados is difficult to say. One reliable specialist source recently published its list of the world’s 10 most expensive cars and all but one was a sports coupe. The odd car out happened to be a Maybach sedan – a brand that has recently been dropped from the Mercedes-Benz stable.

Our list of six super coupes includes many nameplates that have become legendary over the years and continue to make their mark on automotive history. Highperformance coupes continue to get maximum attention and the only radical change we are likely to see in the years ahead will be the adoption of hybrid powertrains of various designs. Many top-drawer automakers are already well advanced with the development of more fuel-efficient models.

It’s true that a lot of fun can be had with a convertible, but serious enthusiasts more often than not lean

june/july 2013

The Fastest Set of Wheels in Town

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The Fast & The Luxurious 2013’s hottest super coupes

Aston Martin 1 2013 DBS Coupe Ultimate Aston Martin is one of those rare manufacturers that always seems to get things right. Even the most dedicated Ferrari fan would have to admit that the great Italian marque has had its share of lessthan-successful models over the years, but Aston Martin coupes just keep looking better. Typical is the latest DB9 with its truly superb styling and mighty 5.9-L V12 powerplant. There isn’t a single discordant line in this Aston’s styling, and the performance is just what you’d expect from 510 HP. An outstanding automobile that continues a fine tradition, but don’t expect any change from the $200,000 price tag.

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Lamborghini 2 2013 Aventador There’s an old story that Ferruccio Lamborghini, a manufacturer of tractors, started to build cars because he was dissatisfied with his Ferrari. Whatever the facts, the move led to a remarkable series of outstanding sports cars, topped recently with the strikingly styled Aventador. A head turner of the first degree, the new Lambo is a futuristic combination of curves and chiselled edges and is, perhaps, the most radical car from the Italian maker in years. Under the hood is a 6.5-L V12 delivering a lusty 416 HP and torque to match. This carbon fibre beauty is understandably costly and it’ll hit your piggy bank to the tune of $425,000.

Ferrari 3 2013 458 Italia One of the least expensive ways to get behind the wheel of a Ferrari is to opt for the new and appropriately named 458 Italia, a model that replaces a long and (usually) distinguished line of earlier cars at the Maranello automaker’s entry point. Ferrari is another automaker that rarely falters when it comes to looks. This one is really stunning with numerous modernistic design cues, but a healthy dose of Ferrari tradition too. Power comes from a melodious 562-HP 4.5-L V8 that’s a work of art in itself. The 458 is listed at around $268,000, which many believe to be a small price to pay for being able to own one of the most fabled nameplates in the world of performance cars.

Words by Tony Whitney

Audi 4 2013 TT Coupe RS Audi’s TT coupe was an instant success when it was first introduced, and with a recent styling makeover, it’s still a firm favourite. With its unique looks – perhaps more vintage Porsche than current Audi – it really stands out on the road. The top model is the TT RS, which uses an uncommon 2.5-L five-cylinder turbo tuned to deliver 360 horses. Suspension is tweaked to match the power available. It’s nicely compact and is one of few upscale coupes that are very much at home on city streets; it’s very easy to drive and maneuver. The TT RS costs around $68,000 but entry level models list for around $20,000 or less.

Mercedes-Benz 5 2013 SLS AMG GT Coupe Few automakers have a history quite like that of Mercedes-Benz and now and again they reach back over the years for inspiration. A fine example of this policy is the SLS AMG GT Coupe, which borrows many of its standout styling cues from the great road race cars of the 1950s. It even has wonderful gullwing doors, which will draw a crowd whenever you park. The big grille and side vents look very 1955 and the whole effect is admirable. Naturally, all engineering aspects are state of the art, including a 6.2-L V8 producing only a shade under 600 HP. It’s also one of the more affordable super coupes at around $208,000.

Porsche 6 2013 Cayman There are those who believe the Porsche Cayman is the most rewarding and enjoyable model in the famed sports car builder’s lineup with its compact dimensions, great handling and more than adequate power. Based loosely on the Boxster roadster, the Cayman has fastback bodywork, which might just be more appealing than that of the more famous 911 Carrera. For 2013, the Cayman has been extensively revised; it’s a little sleeker this time around with more room inside. Like all Porsche sportsters, this one uses a horizontally opposed six-cylinder delivering 325 HP in “S” guise. june/july 2013

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look what i found!

fresh finds for your Kitchen & Dining room

1 4

Timeless Custom 1 kitchen pantry

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village 2 brownstone kitchen island

SAROS 3 KWC kitchen faucet

This custom-crafted kitchen pantry resembles an antique pierced pie safe. Shown in a coloured lacquer, it is also available in any colour or configuration.

From the Brownstone Village Collection, this multi-functional kitchen island and bar with drop leaf, four drawers and removable wine storage is the perfect addition to any kitchen.

The new KWC SAROS delivers exceptional functionality and distinctive styling that fits into contemporary and traditional spaces. Two models feature a curved, ergonomic pull- down spray.

Available at Britâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fine Furniture

Available at Sandyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Furniture

2622 Bridge St Victoria | 250.361.3015

975 Langford Pkwy Victoria | 250.386.3841

Available at Victoria Speciality Hardware

britsfinefurniture.ca

sandysfurniture.ca

1990 Oak Bay Ave Victoria | 250.598.2966

vshl.ca

advertising feature

Shaking or 4 No Stirring Required The Liebherr WS 17800 free-standing triple-zone wine cabinet is perfect for the wine connoisseur who might not have enough space in their home for a cellar. Available at Euro-Line Appliances West Find a dealer near you | 1.855.ELA.WEST

euro-line-appliances.com

WOLF CS024 CONVECTION STEAM OVEN

This convection steam oven from Wolf combines the benefits of convection heat and steam, adding the right amount of moisture at just the right times — for the perfect end result. Available at Bradlee Distributors 13780 Bridgeport Rd Richmond | 604.244.1744

bradlee.com

timothy oulton wine rack

Handcrafted from 80- to 100-year-old salvaged wood found in UK heritage sites, each piece is like owning a piece of history. Available at Lûxe Home Interiors

automatic 10 Fully espresso Maker The Gaggenau coffee machine takes your favourite pleasure to another level with the ability to memorize up to 6 personalized beverage settings and a double shot function for those early mornings. Available at Gaggenau

ENTER TO WIN THI PRODUCT! S SEE PA FOR D GE 73 ETAIL S

Find a dealer near you | 1.877.442.4436

gaggenau.ca

AVAILABLE ON MAJOR NEWSSTANDS THROUGHOUT BC AND ALBERTA “HOMES & LIVING IS ONE OF THE MOST SUCCESSFUL MAGAZINE LAUNCHES WE’VE SEEN IN THE PAST 10 YEARS!” — COAST TO COAST NEWSSTAND SERVICES

2655 Douglas St Victoria | 250.386.7632

yourstyleyourway.ca

like 7 Tailored a custom suit The Tyler bar stool combines visual grace, clean contemporary lines, with long-term comfort. The hydraulic lift adjusts from counter to bar height, or anywhere in-between. Available at Scan Designs 661 McCallum Rd Victoria | 250.475.2233 1711 Bowen Rd Nanaimo | 250.753.6361

scandesigns.com

edge 8 live viento table Handcrafted in Buenos Aires, Argentina using South American cherrywood, this exquisite design features free-form edges, solid wood and a hand-rolled solid metal base. Available at Sagers Home Living 1802 Government St Victoria | 250.386.3841

sagers.ca

Adjustable 9 Rockwell Round Dining Table

Available at Muse & Merchant 661 McCallum Rd Victoria | 250.474.3433 1711 Bowen Rd Nanaimo | 250.753.8900

museandmerchant.com

SAVE UP TO 50% OFF NEWSSTAND PRICES! SUBSCRIBE TODAY.

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june/july 2013

Art and functionality fuse in the “upcycled” furnishings of the Rockwell Table. Utilizing a variety of refurbished materials, this evocative piece is inspired by the object’s original use.

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kmacpa.com 124

•

Nanaimo

•

250.758.5557

Sept 19 22 Vancouver

Interior Design Show West

Convention Centre

Interior Design Show West features amazing talent. Designers like Gaile Guevara of Modern604, bring a wealth of creativity and passion to the show each year. Come down and celebrate design with Gaile and 30,000 other enthusiasts. Official Show Guide Proudly Produced By

+ +

Trends. Ideas. New Products. .For Your Home.

Kitchen Design: Gaile Guevara Design + Creative Photo: Tracy Ayton Photography june/july 2013

Pre-purchase your show tickets at idswest.com

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SOURCE INDEX DISTILLED DESIGN

WEB EXCLUSIVES

FOUND ONLY AT HLMAGAZINE.COM

Can’t get enough of Homes & Living magazine? We are pleased to offer our readers even more educational and inspirational features to enhance your home and life in-between issues. Below is a sampling of more great articles that can only be read in full online at: HLMAGAZINE.COM

MONEY MATTERS BY DOUG PARKHURST Advice You Can Take to the Bank: The first step in preventing becoming a victim of fraud is to understand you are not immune. Know the myths, know the warning signs and find out what you can do to protect yourself.

HAUTE INSPIRATION BY SIMI KAILA Rock Runway Right Into Your Home Design: For decades, fashion has influenced everything, including interior design trends. Implement the latest high fashion and couture trends into your home with expert ideas, advice and inspiration from Fashion Week’s Spring/Summer 2013 collections.

LOW-MAINTENANCE LANDSCAPING BY PAT BURKETTE Garden With Gusto, not Grief: Create a low-maintenance landscape this summer while eliminating the chores you dislike and streamlining the ones you enjoy. This guided lawn makeover will make maintenance a breeze. Invest just a few minutes per day for easy upkeep all year, every year.

HLMAGAZINE.COM CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR ESCAPE TO WHISTLER CONTEST WINNER!

MICHELLE HAMILTON VICTORIA , BC

Chateau Whistler

HLMAGAZINE.COM

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“My husband and I own and operate a hardwood flooring installation and refinishing business on Vancouver Island. We really enjoy reading Homes and Living magazine for inspiration and design ideas. I particularly enjoyed Gaile Guevara’s article, Wood: Enduring Time and Trends in the April/May issue. The featured homes are always gorgeous in Homes and Living magazine. It’s always a pleasure to read a magazine that shows off West Coast style.” — Michelle Hamilton, Victoria, BC

NOTE: COMING SOON! Look for this icon in ads in H&L then visit HLMAGAZINE.COM/BROCHURE-DOWNLOADS to download free brochures from our esteemed advertisers.

Page 22-27 Furniture Maker: Christian Woo, christianwoo.com; Architect: Open Space Architecture, openspacearchitecture.com; Photographer: Trevor Brady Photography, trevorbrady.com

TIMELESS DESIGN | ACCENTS

Page 28 Kramer Knives handmade by Bob Kramer at the Kramer Knives shop kramerknives.com; Blanda Blank Bowl by IKEA, ikea.com/ca; Enamelled Cast Iron Oval French Oven by Le Creuset, lecreuset.ca

TRANSFORMATIONS

Page 30-33 Photographer: Roger Brooks

FEATURE HOME – ABSTRACT DEVELOPMENTS INC.

Pages 40-49 Photographer: Joshua Lawrence, jl-studios.com All suppliers listed to the best of our knowledge, provided by Abstract Developments Inc.: Ark Solar Products Ltd.; Builders Choice Shower Door, bcshowerdoor.com; C-MO Gutters; Coastal Heating and Ventilation, hvaccontractorvictoria.com; Chouinard Exterior Wall Systems, chouinardews.com; C.R. Custom Roofing Inc., customroofing.ca; Colonial Countertops Ltd., colonialcountertops.com; Glacier Insulation Ltd.; Gorge Electrical Services Ltd.; Grohovac Installations Ltd., grohovac.com; Hobson Enterprises Ltd. (Woodworks); ICL (Concrete Supply); Illuminations Lighting Solutions, illuminationsbc.com; Innovative Kitchens and Bath Ltd., innovativekitchensandbath.com; Island Floor Center Ltd., islandfloors.com; K2 Stone, k2stone.ca; Luis Cardoso Masonry; Pella Windows and Doors, pella.com; PR Wilson Interiors; RADA Enterprises Inc., radaresurfacing.com; Slegg Lumber, slegglumber.ca; Talsa Construction Ltd.; T & T Painting & Decorating Ltd.; Tedford Overhead Doors, tedforddoors.com; The Finishing Store, finishingstore.com; The Right Man Plumbing & Gas Company Ltd., onelocal.net; Victoria Specialty Hardware, vshl.ca; We Paint; Western Grater Contracting Ltd., westerngrater.com

ULTIMATE KITCHEN SECTION

SPACE OUT Page 56-57 Scavolini - LiberaMente, vancouver.scavolinistore.net LIGHT WEIGHT Page 58 Bulthaup, vancouver.bulthaup.com CITY & COUNTRY Page 60 Downsview Kitchens, downsviewkitchens.com CASUAL CONCEPT Page 62-63 SieMatic, siematic.us TOUCH WOOD Page 64 Willis, 4willis.com; TDSwansburg Design Studio, tdswansburg.com GRAND SCHEME Page 66-67 Downsview Kitchens, downsviewkitchens.com ZEN CUISINE Page 68 Poggenpohl, poggenpohl. com METAL WORKS Page 70-71 Scavolini/Diesel, vancouver.scavolinistore.net Caged suspension lights: Foscarini, diesel.foscarini.com HOT DOG Page 72 Viking Range Corporation, vikingrange.com

EXPRESSIONS

Page 84 Opening photo by Tony Puerzer, brightideaphotography.com; Mother and Child sculpture photo by Janet Dwyer Page 86 Top to bottom: Chalice sculpture photo by Janet Dwyer, janetdwyer.com; Bottle Vase sculpture photo by Teddy McCrea, ladysmithphotography.com; Bottle Vase sculpture photo by Janet Dwyer

ESCAPE

Page 92-97 Milestone Hotel, milestonehotel.com; St James Hotel, stjameshotelandclub.com

HAUNTING OF

Page 110 Photograph credit: The Royal Theatre in 1913 from the northwest. Victoria City Archives, M06553

LOOKING FORWARD

Page 128 Photo: Stressless - Modern 33 D200, Scan Designs, scandesigns.com

naturally inspiring

hotel | restaurant | spa

scape to the natural tranquility, beauty, and comfort of Black Rock Oceanfront Resort – an extraordinary retreat on Vancouver Island’s rugged west coast. Our magnificent oceanfront resort in Ucluelet, British Columbia, combines contemporary comfort and quality service with the organic energy of Canada’s western frontier for an enchanting vacation experience. Designed with a deep respect for the land and sea, Black Rock’s innovative architecture contrasts the Wild Pacific landscape. Expansive spaces, natural light and breathtaking seaward vistas create a passionate connection to the freedom and serenity of Vancouver Island’s magical coast.

Ucluelet, U l l t BC • 1 1-877-762-5011 877 762 5011 • w w w.blackrockresort.com

june/july 2013

Black Rock Resort is one of the most stunning new outposts on Canada’s wild Pacific coast.

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looking forward

Get ready for our August/September Home Furnishings Issue aug/sept 2013

home furnishings issue Look for the August/September Home Furnishings Issue on major newsstands the week of July 22, 2013

Dress your home to impress all year long Whether your style is classic, contemporary or custom, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll fall in love with the luxury furniture featured in this issue. You can also expect interviews with celebrated furniture designers, plus preview Frank Pollaro and Brad Pittâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new furniture line.

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Subscribe and save. Visit HLmagazine.com/subscribe

Benvenuti a casa. Benvenuti a casa. New Arrivals in Store Now. New Arrivals in Store Now.

Visit the Island’s Largest Natuzzi Italia Gallery.

975 Langford Parkway, Victoria, BC

975 Langford Parkway, Victoria, BC 250.391.6646 250.391.6646 www.sandysfurniture.ca/natuzzi-italia www.sandysfurniture.ca/natuzzi-italia Mon - Wed: 10AM - 6PM • Thurs & Fri: 10AM - 9PM • Sat: 10AM - 6PM • Sun: 11AM - 5PM

Mon - Wed: 10AM - 6PM • Thurs & Fri: 10AM - 9PM • Sat: 10AM - 6PM • Sun: 11AM - 5PM