Cottage & Outdoor Living | Home Trends Magazine | Cottage Living and Outdoor Spaces

OUTDOOR LIVING Creating Your Backyard Oasis Fresh Summer Fashions Local Summer Destinations

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preparing the best meats.

58 Summer Recipes Try these delicious recipes at your next barbecue. 59 Grill Guide Find the best grill for your cooking preferences. 62

Live Better

IN THIS ISSUE...

Outdoor Living

Yards We Love

#trending with Jo Alcorn Jo shares her favorites for outdoor living spaces. 23

DIY Pergola Oasis Marc tours his DIY deck and pergola project. 26

Less Work, More Play Tips for getting the most out of your backyard. 40

Condo Expansion Add living space with a stunning condo balcony. 30

#outdoordesign Designers Annaliesse and Jillian create backyard decor concepts. 42

Outdoor Sanctuary Tour a stunning outdoor living space. 35

Patio Makeover Designer Maria shares tips for updating your patio. 46 Bring on the Shade Tips for increasing the shade in your backyard. 51 Picnic Dreams Two of our editors create design boards to elevate the traditional picnic table. 52

Roof with a View A rooftop patio to maximize outdoor space. 48

Grill Master Ultimate Entertainer Create the perfect outdoor kitchen for you! 57 Master of the Grill Expert tips for selecting and

Safe & Secure Tips to protect your home this summer. 68 Better Nights Select the right mattress for a good night’s sleep. 70 Debt 101 When is it time to look for help? 74

Canadian Destinations Travel expert shares her favorite local summer destinations. 76 Summer Fashion Essentials Find our favorite cover-ups and cottage essentials. 80

Vacation Homes #buyerschecklist Six things to consider when purchasing a cottage. 99 Rustic Updates Take rustic country living to the next level. 100

Spring 2021 Special Edition

Editor-in-Chief Marc Atiyolil www.MarcAndMandy.com

Associate Design Editor Crystal Williams National Design Editor Glen Peloso Design & Event Editor Evelyn Eshun Design Editor Karla Dreyer Style Editor Jo Alcorn Food Editor Chef Rob Thomas Copy Chief Lorraine Jolicoeur Key Ingredient Expert tips for choosing cottage flooring. 103

Salvaged Hideaway An old workshop becomes a private getaway. 127

Water Solutions Improve the quality of your cottage drinking water. 109

Island Paradise A vacation home on PEI gets a long-distance makeover. 132

Cottage Workspace Create a functional home office at the cottage. 110

We Love...

Maximizing Your Space Increase your cottage entertaining options outdoors! 112 What’s Your Cottage Style?

Three stunning cottage kitchens for every taste. 117

Cottages We Love Muskoka Magic Tour our cover cottage. 93 Colorful Cottage A dream come true on Vancouver Island. 121

SunLounge Create your own instant outdoor room quickly and easily! 32 Ultimate Water System The water system that does it all! 66 Trendsetters A look inside the work and lives of some of the industry's most innovative thinkers. 85 Bi-folding Door System Meld indoors and outdoors into one space with ease. 106 AlumaDeck Beautiful decking, build to last. 114

Art Director Micheline Gosselin Contributors J. Alcorn, R. Barrinuevo, M. Killam, A. Kelly, J. Straky, M. Atiyolil, C. Williams, J. Croft, H. Lawrie, P. Lafrance, C. Galer, J. Galer, G. Turcotte, T. Bartlette, J. Pitropov, B. Jackson, A. Hook, L. Hook, N. Reihani, G. Pizzale

Media Sales Inquiries: Canadian Sales Office: Ph: 1-866-984-0940 sales@canadianhometrends.ca www.canadianhometrends.com Production and Design Marc Atiyolil Media Inc. Published by: Marc Atiyolil Media Inc Box 7, 20 Centre Ave, Blumenort, MB R0A 0C0 1-866-984-0940 – FAX 204-346-9099 Email info@canadianhometrends.ca www.canadianhometrends.com

To Subscribe Call: 1-866-984-0940 All rights reserved. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the express written consent of the publisher.

Canadian Home Trends Magazine makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information it publishes, but cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from errors or omissions.

Publications Mail Agreement No. 41438018 Return Undeliverable Canadian Addresses to: Canadian Home Trends Magazine Box 7, Blumenort, MB R0A 0C0

OUR CONTRIBUTORS EDITORIAL TEAM CONTRIBUTORS 1. Marc Atiyolil, Editor-in-Chief, www.canadianhomtrends.com; 2. Jo Alcorn, Style Editor, www.alcornhome.com; 3. Jillian Straky, www.housewears.ca

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FEATURED CONTRIBUTORS

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4. Maria Killam, www.mariakillam.com; 5. Annaliesse Kelly, www.annaliessekellydesign.com; 6. Paul Lafrance, www.paullafrancedesign.com; 7. Red Barrinuevo, www.redesign4more.com; 8. Negar Reihani, www.spaceharmony.ca; 9. Larry & Andi Hook, www.hookandhookdesigns.com; 10. Gabrielle Pizzale, www.pizzaledesigninc.com

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Winter is finally over! With a sigh of relief, we can now enjoy warmer weather and see nature blossom. The barren landscape will soon be transformed into a wild canvas of greens, deep browns, lively blues and rich tones of budding vegetation. Whether you are enjoying a weekend at the cottage or a staycation in your backyard, it's important that you have a place to go and connect with the great outdoors.

One of my favorite things to do is go on hikes at the lake. It's a fun way to explore and I find a lot of inspiration when designing outdoor spaces that perfectly blend into their surroundings during these hikes. Just as when one renovates the interior of their home, there must be a consistency in everything that the eye can see. I love integrating natural materials and mixing them with unexpected pops of colors for added interest.

Last summer, the kids helped me make an abstract art piece that hangs over our sofa in the cottage's backyard. I wanted to create a focal point that would draw the eye up and have an excuse to infuse some textures and colors into the space. Deep blues, warm whites and pops of orange were mixed together to create a vibrant large scale art installation that hangs on the fence. I then mixed gravel into leftover exterior paint and added texture to the piece. The kids loved helping me with the project and Mandy was excited that she now had a nice area to sit and enjoy her morning coffee by the outdoor fireplace!

With the summer months just around the corner, I find myself dreaming of all the wonderful projects we can tackle as a family this year. This issue is filled with many designer touches that I am sure will make their way into our property this year. So many ideas, so little hours in the day!

Have a wonderful summer at the lake!

MARC ATIYOLIL Editor-in-Chief marc@canadianhometrends.com

#trending with Jo Alcorn HOME TRENDS’ STYLE EDITOR JO ALCORN SHARES HER FAVORITE SELECTIONS FOR OUTDOOR LIVING!

A firepit or fire bowl should be a must have for any backyard space! Nothing creates that cozy summer evening feel like curling up in a deck chair next to a crackling fire with a drink in hand and a good friend to chat with. - Wayfair, www.wayfair.ca

A must have for this year: a place to recharge! We often think of backyards as places to entertain guests or host summer get togethers - but this year, more than ever, it's time to start looking at your backyard as a place for YOU to escape to as well! A "She Shed" is a multi-purpose space that can be whatever you wish it to be, creating a little space all your own. - Lowes, www.lowes.ca

Creative container gardening means you can enjoy fresh summer veggies even if your space is small!

Click and Grow www.clickandgrow.com

PLANT IT!

CABANA STRIPES Stripe umbrellas in classic colors bring elegant nostalgia to an outdoor living space.

Crate and Barrel, www.crateandbarrel.ca

GET YOUR ROCK ON Time outside in the summer is never long enough so let’s make sure we are enjoying every minute of it in comfort.

Home Hardware, www.homehardware.ca

Patio season can be longer than you think with the help of Dimplex heat solutions. Infrared outdoor/ indoor heaters are perfect to enhance an outdoor entertaining space with premium comfort and modern design. Reaching maximum heat in just seconds, this product provides consistent warmth, while mirroring the quality of interior décor, outdoors.

Dimplex, www.dimplex.com

Beautiful outdoor pillows transform a space immediately, bringing warmth and style into your outdoor living space!

Tonic Living www.tonicliving.ca

TEXT | MARC ATIYOLIL, WWW.MARCANDMANDY.COM

PERGOLA

oasis

A pergola is a great way to provide protection from the sun and other elements to your outdoor space. On a recent episode of The Marc and Mandy Show, Marc teamed up with Toja Grid and McMunn & Yates to create a stunning deck and pergola.

CREATING YOUR PERGOLA The first step is materials! For this pergola, we used brackets from Toja Grid that come ready to go and we just added 6x6 posts from the local lumber yard.

To build the pergola, use the brackets to secure your posts at both the tops and bottoms of each post. You’ll also have to cover your pergola so that it delivers on providing shade and protection from the elements to your outdoor space and Toja Grid offers a few different options for both side and overhead protection. In this case, Marc chose the

Shade Sail option for his pergola kit which provides overhead protection from the sun and elements when using this outdoor living space.

Once you’ve created your pergola structure, you can start to furnish and decorate your space with accessories such as outdoor furniture, an outdoor dining set, plants, and lighting.

MARC'S TOP TIPS FOR ACCESSORIZING For your main furnishings, select high quality, neutral pieces! This ensures they will remain beautiful and timeless from season to season and saves you money in the long run.

Flexibility is another key consideration when selecting outdoor furniture. Pieces that can be arranged and rearranged based on need and occasion will offer more opportunity for future use!

The sectional from Toja Patio Furniture is a great example - as it can be used as a lounging space or separated into a sofa and ottoman for flexible seating when needed or simply to change up the design!

Use accessories like rugs and cushions to add a punch of color and style that you can alter from year to year to refresh your look without a large expense!

When setting your dining table, bring indoor items outside for a truly designer feel. In this space, Marc repurposed a simple white lace curtain panel into a lovely table cloth that adds a designer touch at no cost. Since it was no longer being used elsewhere, if it gets damaged, no one is upset!

Watch This Segment Online at www.MarcandMandy.com Furniture, Toja Patio Furniture, www.toja.ca; Pergola Kit, Toja Grid, www.tojagrid.ca, Deck Materials, McMunn & Yates, www.mcmunnandyates.com

Condo Expansion www.redesign4more.com

Photos by West Blue Media www.westbluemedia.com

with Red Barrinuevo

DESIGNER RED BARRINUEVO CREATES ADDING LIVING SPACE WITH A STUNNING CONDO BALCONY!

RED'S OUTDOOR DESIGN TIPS PLAN! Think of how you will use the space before you lay it out. If you don't have the vision, work with a pro to avoid costly mistakes.

This condo boasted a huge terrace so we created zones to organize and maximize its function. We want to make sure that in the end, it will be a functional and beautiful addition to the condo with a Manhattan-inspired, clean and contemporary feel that can be enjoyed by the whole family for years to come.

PICK THE RIGHT FINISHES. Every element in your outdoor design should gravitate towards the design direction you want to achieve, from stone color, landscape, softscape, your planters and all.

They have to work together aesthetically for it to feel right. Decide on a color palette and an overall feel you want to achieve and choose accordingly.

Bouclair www.bouclair.com

Pottery Barn www.potterybarn.ca

Add a rustic touch with wooden trays and caddies to hold your dining essentials.

I love everything that went into this space but my favorite design element is the black metal screen in a chevron pattern that provided a great backdrop and hid the old brick walls.

We Love...

SunLounge

There is a growing trend to expand outdoor space. Whether by the lake, near the tree line, in the yard or on the beach, you’re likely to find some sort of sitting area typically made out of wood or concrete patio slabs. These are often costly and require a lot of yearly upkeep creating more work than relaxation.

For 30 years, Sunspace Sunrooms has continually developed and expanded its selection of two and three-season sunrooms, Weathermaster© windows and many other products to help ensure you enjoy your family time to the fullest.

INTRODUCING THE SUNLOUNGE. Intricately designed using our well-loved product lines.

It features the SunWall, (acrylic privacy and wind-blocking panels), set in a U-shape on top of our Aluminum Decking and sub-frame.

Impervious to weather and maintenance-free, the non-slip aluminum decking also ensures that there will be no worry of grass or weeds growing through the gaps as found typically in wood and concrete. Additionally, the opaque acrylic panels provide privacy, while still allowing natural sunlight. The aluminum decking is available in four colors, (Grey, Sand, Cedar and Grey Woodgrain), and the aluminum posts come in five, (White, Driftwood, Bronze, Black, Grey).

The Sunspace SunLounge is a fully-manufactured kit, and can be completely installed by trained professionals in half a day or less. With its flexible design, the entire unit can be picked up, (with the help of a few friends), and moved around your property as desired. Included with every SunLounge comes with a 10-year warranty on both the decking and railing systems. - www.sunspacesunrooms.com

OUTDOOR

sanctuary TEXT | MARIA KILLAM WWW.MARIAKILLAM.COM

How to Create a Soothing Outdoor Sanctuary on Your Patio When you’re stuck at home, spending time outdoors can be like a mini retreat. Before Covid-19 sent us all home, you may have taken your patio for granted and now that spring has arrived, you may be finding ways to enjoy it a little more this season.

CLEAN & READY When setting up my patio for the season, I start by having everything power washed so it's clean and ready for me to enjoy as soon as it is warm enough to sit outside.

INSIDE OUT Creating a look and a feel outside, just like you would inside, makes your house feel even bigger! Treat your outdoor patio just like a room, adding a mirror, sofa table, and accessories.

CREATIVE ACCESSORIES Change up your accessories to give your space a fresh feel. I also move around my accessories (they rotate all through the house all year). For this look, I was enchanted with my three fat candleholders and how great they looked with my oversize faux coral.

Take advantage of pretty touches you have on hand. My kale was flowering so I picked some for one of my hundreds of vases/vessels.

DINING BASICS Organize outdoor entertaining basics like flatware and dishes in a caddy – even if you are just entertaining your own family. You’ll be glad to have easy access for your al fresco dining.

HOME OFFICE If you’re working from home, take your home office outdoors. You’ll find me all summer long, working in my outdoor living room with my laptop.

COZY TOUCHES Include plenty of soft goods to create a cozy and inviting space. A blanket is perfect for those chilly evenings after the sun goes down and lots of throw pillows create plenty of comfy spots to relax.

CONSIDER THE ELEMENTS Keep sun and exposure damage in mind when selecting pieces. My x ottomans aren’t covered in outdoor fabric, but they work outdoors all summer because they are under cover and they don’t get wet. They have definitely faded from sun exposure and will need to be re-done at some point! If you are especially fond or emotionally attached to a specific piece, make sure to consider the possible damage it may face before placing it outdoors.

LESS WORK

more play

SMART WATERING! For many years now, irrigation systems have been the go-to for simplifying yard care. An irrigation system customized to your yard can allow you to spend less time lugging hoses and more time enjoying your yard. Today, irrigation systems take this to a new level with smart technology that can be controlled by your phone. These systems can be connected to the internet where they use current weather forecasts and seasonal data to adjust your watering schedule automatically! We install it and you just let it run!

LIGHT IT UP! One of the key aspects that plays into the success of any design is lighting. A poor lighting plan leaves a beautiful space feeling less welcoming while a great lighting plan brings a space to life, improves functionality and really makes the space shine (pun intended).

Landscape lighting is no exception. Well-planned landscape lighting will add functionality and style to your space. After spending time and money creating the perfect backyard oasis, proper lighting will make sure you get the most out of your space. A good lighting plan will allow you to enjoy your space late in the evening, improve curb appeal by highlighting key features of your home or yard and improve safety and security as well!

EXPERT TIP: We usually install outdoor lighting systems with dusk-to-dawn automatic settings so that the lights turn off and on automatically. This means you don't have to remember to turn lights on or off every day and you can simply enjoy your outdoor space! - University Sprinklers, www.universitysprinklers.com

THE EXPERTS AT UNIVERSITY SPRINKLERS SHARE TIPS FOR GETTING THE MOST OUT OF YOUR BACKYARD THIS SUMMER!

#outdoordesign with Annaliesse Kelly DESIGNER ANNALIESSE KELLY IMAGINES AN OUTDOOR SPACE PERFECT FOR THE UNIQUE DINOSAUR CHAIRS FROM MOUNTAIN HOUSE FURNITURE. - www.annaliessekellydesign.com

Saturated, happy greens and amber are some of my favorite colors currently, always combined with black and white.

Benjamin Moore Twilight Zone 2127-10

Benjamin Moore Essex Green PM-11

Benjamin Moore Amber 168

This season, it’s about mixing and matching with handmade accessories, interesting shapes, layers, color and fun. This dynamic contrast will make any outdoor space feel tempting and ready for spring! Combine black siding or patio accents, striped textiles and a minimalistic flooring and you will get a unique space.

SOURCES: Dinosaur Egg Chairs, Mountain House Furniture, www.mountainhousefurniture.ca; Paint Colors, Benjamin Moore, www.benjaminmoore.com; Table, Restoration Hardware, www.rhmodern.com; Suspension Lamp, LightForm, www.lightformshop.com; Rug, Side Table, Planters, Decor, CB2, www.cb2.com; Balad LED Light, Brougham Interiors, www.broughaminteriors.com; Ceramic Vase, Details by Mrk, www.detailsbymrk.com; Microtopping, Ideal Work, www.idealwork.com

#outdoordesign with Jillian Straky DESIGNER JILLIAN STRAKY IMAGINES A COLORFUL MODERN OUTDOOR LIVING SPACE FEATURING MOUNTAIN HOUSE FURNITURE’S BEAUTIFUL GRACE COLLECTION. - www.housewears.ca

This classic modern backyard retreat is fresh and inviting when punctuated with curvy mid-century furniture in fresh marigold and raspberry hues. Bold stripes and textures give this backyard space a resort feel! When ‘staycation’ is the routine, this stylish space is the perfect destination for alfresco family dining or for cocktails by the fire as the sun sets!

A must have for this year: a place to recharge! We often think of backyards as places to entertain guests or host summer get togethers - but this year, more then

Mix & Match The Grace Collection is available in a three gorgeous colors, allowing you to mix and match to suit your style! - Mountain House Furniture, www.mountainhousefurniture.ca

SOURCES: Grace Collection Chairs and Side Table, Washington Love Seat , Mountain House Furniture, www.mountainhousefurniture.ca; Firepit, Wayfair, www.wayfair.ca; Rug, Pillows, Planters, Bowl, Table, CB2, www.cb2.com

Patio Makeover www.mariakillam.com

with Maria Killam

DESIGNER MARIA KILLAM GIVES HER SISTER’S PATIO A BEACHY BLUE MAKEOVER

A new pavilion helps to block the western sun that shines directly on this area in the summer and nicely covers some new cedars that had been planted to replace old ones right behind it.

Arrange your outdoor furniture to best fit your patio. From the old dining set, we kept the patio umbrella and chairs because they were still in good condition. The rectangular parsons table with two wicker chairs create a much more inviting/coordinated dining set that also fits the area better. This fresh alfresco dining space would make anyone want to eat every meal outside.

TRY THESE! Throw Pillows, www.wayfair.ca

Get creative with your outdoor patio decor.

Markus has just a few stuffies so we used them to add some personality and help create a kid-friendly space. Who says you can’t combine a little whimsy with all things stylish?

Don’t be afraid to use art in your outdoor spaces. We found the seagull artwork for $40 from HomeSense and I think it’s really fun to have something on the wall even if it is outdoors. It might not last more than one season but for that price, it’s like a bouquet of flowers but better!

ROOF WITH A

view

TEXT | SYNTHESIS DESIGN, WWW.SYNTHESISDESIGN.CA

Credits: Terra Form Landscaping, www.terraformlandscaping.com Photos by David Sutherland Photography

The most inspiring aspect about our rooftop deck is seeing staff either seek solace by cuddling in our super comfortable hanging bubble chairs, or joining each other with a drink, sitting by the fire, discussing an ongoing design challenge that awaits them in the studio below. It is this type of collaboration and solitude that stands out most, and reaffirms why we created this magical space - Curtis D. Krahn, Principal, Synthesis Design

Synthesis Design has been located in Vancouver for over 27 years. Our connection to our community is deeply engrained in what we do, and we are always drawing on inspiration from our surroundings in our work. When considering how to maximize the space of our studio, expanding and renovating our rooftop deck was a no-brainer. Having our design studio in an area without many amenities, we wanted to create an environment for staff to be able to relax, enjoy the sun and the view. A space for our designers and staff to be inspired.

The inspiration behind the design of the rooftop deck was to create a natural environment that was conducive to creativity and a place to escape the studio for fresh air and a fresh outlook. Flat roofs are often seen simply as ways to keep the “outside out” but they can be so much more!

These often under appreciated building systems should be transformed whenever possible to “bring the outside in”.

The rooftop deck was the perfect way to maximize existing space and add additional living areas, separate from the working environment.

Our rooftop deck has 3 unique spaces, yet remains incredibly spacious and open; truly the perfect spot for entertaining and celebrating as a team. Two large bubble chairs serve as the ideal location to read, think, or nap. Our outdoor dining area is great for birthday lunches, Synthesis celebrations, and for hosting numerous summertime parties with our community. Our large, open lounge section is the heart of our office. When the weather permits, we flock to the rooftop lounge to enjoy the fresh air and a few refreshing drinks. As a team, it is great for us to have a space where we can all come together and relax after a long week, or even for a midMonday inspiration break. Our rooftop deck also incorporates a sustainable live green roof which serves to cool the building in the summer, absorbs rainwater, reduces airborne pollutants and promotes bird activity.

The opportunity to create an outdoor living space that exposes one to the sun, the breeze, and potential views makes for surprising and interesting spaces. A place to meet, celebrate, think, or relax, the rooftop deck has been a defining element to the Synthesis Design studio.

BRING ON

the shade

As much as we look forward to the sunny days of summer, shade is an important aspect of being able to enjoy the sunshine! Shade provides protection from harmful UV rays; it provides a space you can enjoy even when the sun is harsh and can also help to keep your indoor temperatures down as well!

Here are 4 ideas for improving shade in your yard: for the best results, your shade plan should include a combination of these methods.

PLANT IT: Trees and shrubs can provide varying degrees of shade. Of course, it can require patience as they do need time to grow. Talk to your local nursery to find out what trees are best for your yard and which will grow quickest.

OUTDOOR STRUCTURES: Pergolas and gazebos are popular choices for outdoor structures. These are permanent, unmoving structures that can provide various degrees of shade with roofs, vines, mesh walls, etc.

TEMPORARY SHADE: Temporary gazebos and umbrellas can offer shade where you need it and be moved as required. Umbrellas provide a smaller shaded area but can be shifted easily.

AWNINGS & SCREENS: Awnings are a fantastic choice if you are looking for a permanent shade option that can be installed quickly, requiring minimal maintenance and still offering flexibility. A variety of awnings are available including retracting, pergola, pavilion, drop-arm and side shade awnings, allowing you to control the amount of shade you have at any time. You can also install patio and window screens that help to keep the sun from warming up your home in the summer.

Awnings and More Calgary, www.awningsandmore.ca

THE EXPERTS AT AWNINGS AND MORE SHARE TIPS FOR CREATING MORE SHADE IN YOUR YARD THIS SUMMER.

Giant Tiger, www.gianttiger.com ShopCHT www.shopcht.com

HomeSense www.homesense.ca

Marc Atiyolil Editor-in-Chief www.CanadianHomeTrends.com

Wayfair www.wayfair.ca

Inspired by an afternoon at the beach, this backyard oasis brings in natural woods, ocean inspired blues and sunny yellows. A simple picnic table, designed to be untippable, is a staple for a beachy setting and mixing elegant patterns with rustic finishes creates a timeless elegance.

ShopCHT www.shopcht.com

The Great Canadian Picnic Table, www.thegreatcanadianpicnictable.ca

Giant Tiger, www.gianttiger.com

ShopCHT www.shopcht.com

Giant Tiger, www.gianttiger.com

Crystal Williams Associate Design Editor www.CanadianHomeTrends.com A modern take on the traditional picnic table is the perfect starting point for this bohemian style backyard oasis. Adding exotic prints and bright colors creates an unexpectedly stylish space that’s ready for hours of outdoor relaxation. Don’t forget to finish off the space with a comfy hammock for afternoon naps!

Pottery Barn www.potterybarn.com

ShopCHT www.shopcht.com

The Great Canadian Picnic Table, www.thegreatcanadianpicnictable.ca

Canadian Tire www.canadiantire.ca

Home Depot, www.homedepot.com

Ultimate ENTERTAINER Think beyond the grill this summer and create your own custom outdoor kitchen perfectly designed to fit your lifestyle!

CUSTOMIZE YOUR STORAGE: Adding storage and cabinet solutions to your outdoor kitchen allows you to customize your space to your needs. Design your space to provide storage for items you will use regularly to save trips back and forth from the kitchen and keep mess to a minimum! Coyote Outdoor Living offers a wide range of drawers and cabinets. These include speciality cabinets for paper towels, spice racks, a warming drawer, trash and recycling pull-out drawers and grill carts made from rigid 304 stainless steel for a long lasting outdoor kitchen.

ACCESSORIZE: The kitchen is a place for culinary exploration, and an outdoor kitchen should be no different. Outdoor cooking has moved beyond traditional hotdog and hamburger fare. With Coyote Outdoor Living’s assortment of specialty grilling appliances you can create a unique kitchen full of options or one focused to suit your specific cooking style or specialty. (See our grill guide on page 62) Accessories include side burners, power burners, drop-in griddles, a Teppanyaki griddle, a wok attachment, a charcoal tray and laser-cut grates!

COOL IT: Outdoor entertainment will not be complete without drinks and refreshments. A full outdoor refreshment center can be customized to your own needs with a variety of options to pick from - including an outdoor-rated freestanding refrigerator, a refreshment center, a pull-out ice chest, a drop-in cooler and a sink.

Coyote Outdoor Living grills and accessories are available from Distinctive, www.distinctive-online.com

Prefer to keep your wine and oysters on ice? Coyote’s Drop-In Cooler or full extension Pull-Out Ice Chest are ideal with built-in drains for easy cleanup.

Customize your outdoor kitchen space with a wide range of storage cabinets like this paper towel drawer!

Master OF THE

www.mastermeats.com

Grill

A great BBQ starts at the butcher. A knowledgeable butcher can give you advice on appropriate cuts for your cooking needs, tips for preparing a great meal, and accessibility to lesser known cuts that you don't find in the supermarkets.

SELECTING BEEF: Look for AAA or Higher locally sourced cuts that are for grilling. Make sure your beef cuts are aged a minimum of 21 days. Higher marbling and aging leads to more flavorful and tender end results.

GRILLING TIPS: Allow the meat to get to room temperature before grilling. Pat the meat dry before seasoning and grilling. This will allow proper searing of the meat which will enhance the flavor of the finished product and help prevent the meat from turning gray.

Make sure your grill is clean and good and hot before starting to grill. After the grill is heated up, rub a halved potato on the hot grates. This will make them virtually non-stick.

Don’t sauce the food too early. The sugars in the sauce will burn. Apply sauce in the last 2 mins of grilling. When the meat is finished cooking, always let it rest to keep the juices from running out onto your cutting board and drying out the meat.

THE EXPERTS AT MASTER MEATS SHARE THEIR TIPS FOR MASTERING THE BBQ THIS SUMMER!

PORK & POULTRY: When grilling pork or poultry, always brine your meat. This not only helps to add flavor but also keeps the meat juicy and moist. A basic brine is 30g of salt dissolved into 1 litre of water. Brine times will vary depending on size and cut of meat as well as the salt content of the brine. Try experimenting with different seasonings.

QUICK TIP When doing homemade burgers, press down in the middle of the patty with your thumb to make a shallow dimple.

This will ensure a more evenly cooked burger.

Digital Bonus Try this fabulous recipes from www.CanadianHomeTrends.com!

THE EPIC BURGER INGREDIENTS

3. Sear Patties - Once you’ve formed your patties, cook them by heating a cast-iron pan with butter. Toss the patties into your pan. TIP If you prefer, you can also grill the patties, rather than searing them on a skillet.

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1 lb ground beef

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1/4 lb ground pork

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5 cloves garlic

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1/4 cup red onion (diced)

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2 Tbsp chiffonade parsley (chopped fine)

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2 long sprigs rosemary (chopped fine)

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1 egg

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salt, pepper

DIRECTIONS 1. Combine Ingredients - In a bowl, combine ground beef, pork, salt, a cracked egg, red onion, parsley, rosemary, and pepper. Use your hands to quickly mix the ingredients, in order to avoid over mixing your meat. If it is over-mixed, your patties will become shrunken and tough when you cook them.

4. Build The Burger - Build the burger using a brioche bun (or any other bun of your choosing), and fixings – also of your choosing. Chef Melissa recommends truffle mayo, fried pickle chips, pickled beets, lemon cream cheese, smoked oysters, tomato, salt, pepper, lettuce, spinach, grilled balsamic onions, and bacon.

Recipe by Chef Melissa Makarenko, as seen on www.MarcandMandy.com.

Click here to watch this segment now!

2. Form Patties - Using your hands, form patties about the size of your palm.

TRY THIS! Chef Rob Thomas’ Grilled Pineapple Pico de Gallo makes the perfect finishing touch for grilled fish, chicken and more! Find the recipe on www.MarcandMandy.com

Bacon Double Cheese Stuffed Burgers

Spicy Beer and Peanut Butter BBQ Baste

COWBOY’S CAVIAR

Jerky Smashed Potatoes INGREDIENTS 1 1/2 lbs

1 Tbsp 3 Tbsp

small potatoes (yellow or red) salt & pepper olive oil melted butter

Toppings: Cheese, crumbled Cowboy Caviar Peppered Jerky, green onions, sour cream DIRECTIONS Boil or bake the potatoes.

BOILED: Rinse potatoes and cover cubed potatoes with water in 4-quart saucepan; bring to a boil over mediumhigh heat. Reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 10 minutes. Drain.

BAKED: Scrub potatoes clean, brush with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper and wrap in foil. Bake at 450°F for 25 minutes.

Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, place them on a baking sheet and gently smash them with a potato masher, the bottom of a glass or a spatula. Brush the potatoes with the melted butter. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Sprinkle the potatoes with cheese and put in oven on broil until cheese is melted.

Place Cowboy Caviar Peppered jerky in the food processor and chopped until crumble like bacon bits.

Top with crumbled Cowboy Caviar Peppered jerky, green onions and sour cream.

PRO TIP: Toss potatoes with the dressing while they are still warm in order to really infuse the flavors .

Digital Bonus Try these delicious summer recipes from Marc & Mandy

Moroccan Carrot Salad With Chef Pete Evans

Grilled Tomato Salad

Cowboy’s Caviar Potato Salad Add a fresh twist to your summer potato salad with the delicious flavor of Cowboy’s Caviar beef jerky! Visit www.cowboyscaviar.com for more information.

INGREDIENTS

DIRECTIONS

2 lbs.

Rinse potatoes and cover cubed potatoes with water in 4-quart saucepan; bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 10 minutes. Drain and cool slightly.

1 cup 2 Tbsp.

1 1/2 tsp.

1/4 tsp.

1/2 cup 2 1 cup

potatoes (5 to 6 medium), peeled and cut into 3/4-inch chunks mayonnaise apple cider vinegar salt ground black pepper chopped green onions hard-cooked eggs, chopped Cowboy’s Caviar Original Jerky chopped

Optional extras: thinly sliced celery, red onions, red peppers, grated cheese, Smoked Paprika, Old Bay seasoning.

Whisk mayonnaise, vinegar, salt and pepper in large bowl. Add potatoes as well as remaining ingredients and mix gently.

Place Cowboy Caviar Original Jerky in the food processor and blend until crumbly like bacon bits. Garnish with extra Cowboy’s Caviar and green onions. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Dress It Up Beef jerky makes a delicious snack on its own but it also makes a fantastic addition to your favorite dishes as well!

Try some of these ideas!

TRAIL MIX: Make your own trail mix by combining Cowboy’s Caviar with your favorite nuts, grains, chocolates, raisins and more!

BRUSSEL SPROUTS: Add extra flavor to roasted brussel sprouts! Add chopped up Cowboy’s Caviar to the baking sheet for the last 10 minutes of roasting to infuse the flavors.

SALAD TOPPING: Grate your favorite Cowboy’s Caviar over a fresh garden salad! www.cowboyscaviar.com

GRILL GUIDE

S-SERIES Find the best outdoor cooking option for your cooking style with this selection of grills and smokers! Mix and match your favorites for the perfect outdoor cooking experience.

C-SERIES

GAS GRILLS: Coyote Outdoor Living’s C-Series grills are built to suit grillers of all types. Measuring a compact 28”, Coyote’s C1C28 model is the ideal appliance for small spaces, urban living and unparalleled convenience and portability. For homeowners with more space, Coyote’s C2C36 is a terrific option, providing an ample 875 sq. in. of grilling space and featuring four high performance Coyote cast stainless steel Infinity Burners™. All C-Series grills come standard with interior lighting for day or nighttime outdoor culinary pursuits.

The S-Series from Coyote Outdoor Living aspires to exceed the highest standards. This grill series offers various luxury items standard on every grill such as the Coyote cast stainless steel Infinity Burners™, a rotisserie with an infrared burner, smoker box, and RapidSear™ burners to help lock in natural juices and nutrients. Knobs backlit with LED lighting offer a great assist in nighttime cooking and an impressive aesthetic. Each grill features ceramic briquette heat control grids for maintaining the most precise temperature for your outdoor cooking needs.

CHARCOAL GRILLS

CHARCOAL GRILLS AND SMOKERS: Many outdoor cooking enthusiasts appreciate how charcoal grilling and smoking can almost seem poetic; the slow cooking, the importance of precision temperature control, the natural smells; the style is truly a culinary art form.

Coyote Outdoor’s Asado Cooker is an extremely versatile outdoor appliance and will add value and enjoyment to every outdoor living experience. Not only can it be used for grilling, but also in baking pizzas and breads; smoking large cuts of meat at slow temperatures, as well as searing vegetables and fish with temperature controlled perfection. Due to the Asado’s excellent heat retention properties, varied desired temperatures can be achieved and maintained by precise control of airflow via the top venting cap and the bottom slide vents. This coupled with the design of the internal core of the Asado and specially designed laser cut grates will allow for easy high temperature cooking for items such as hamburgers or sausages or lower, slower temperature needs for items like lamb shoulder or slow cooked pork.

ASADO COOKER

PELLET GRILLS: With a range of even heat settings, Coyote Pellet Grills allow you to utilize this high-end outdoor grill in a similar fashion to an indoor oven. Coyote’s green, smart drop pellet system can be used with any flavored wood pellet to further enhance the outdoor entertaining experience. Each grill includes a state-of-the-art digital touch screen and three food temperature probes.

Design is in the details and this robust grill includes a spring assisted hood that can be lifted with a touch of a finger.

PORTABLE GRILLS: Have someone in mind who is always on an outdoor adventure? Whether they are at the campgrounds, on their boat or tailgating, the Portable Gas Grill is the perfect companion for all their activities. It’s durable, made from 316 marine grade stainless steel, has a ceramic heat control grid and doesn’t need to be plugged in so it can go anywhere!

Digital Bonus

PELLET GRILLS

VIDEO FEATURE: Click on any image to watch a video for the product of your choice!

For urban apartment dwellers, and those who have downsized with limited outdoor space, the Coyote Electric Grill allows you to recreate the nostalgic enjoyment of backyard barbeques with family and friends.

Coyote Outdoor Living grills and accessories are available from Distinctive, www.distinctive-online.com

PORTABLE GRILLS

well-being

Your Best Summer Ever!

Experts share their tips to help you have a safe, healthy, and stress-free summer!

We Love...

DOES YOUR WATER DO THIS?

Digital Bonus Are these health benefits backed by science? Overwhelmingly yes!

Click here to learn more!

• Reduce risks of diabetes, arteriosclerosis, high blood pressure and other chronic conditions.

• Protect your cells from radicals.

• Protect against premature aging, immune system disorders, mood swings and heart, eye and memory problems.

• Boost energy levels.

• Improve your digestive tract health.

• Reduce pain and inflammation.

With AQUAVITA Ultimate Water, the goal was simple: to create an all-inone, easy-to-use solution that brings all of the above, and more, right to your fingertips. Whether you’re an athlete requiring an electrolyte-rich drink to fuel your workouts or you struggle with ongoing fatigue, anxiety, or muscle pains, this water has got you covered, backed by over 50 clinical studies. The system’s unique technology uses magnetic fields and infrared to produce water that is not only naturally alkaline but rich in antioxidant properties, micro-clustered and hydrogen-rich.

On top of this, the system also acts as a complete water purifier as well.

On the following page, we examine each of these four properties (plus purification) in more detail!

Ultimate Water

How it Works

ALKALINE, NATURALLY!: Not all alkalized water is created equally. You can create high pH water with chemicals or with the familiar water ionizers that use electrolysis. The thing to understand is that water with a high pH can neutralize the tissues it contacts directly, such as the mouth, the stomach and small intestine, but it will not enter the bloodstream and impact the tissues and the organs outside of the intestinal tract. It is not alkalizing the body’s systems at the cellular level, which is where you need the help to reduce tissue acidity that can lead to a myriad of diseases.

AQUAVITA® water is alkalized naturally using alkaline ions without any chemicals or electrolysis!

ANTIOXIDANT: Antioxidants reduce free radical damage to all our cells. Free radicals are formed by the body’s own metabolic processes as well as being introduced environmentally and by our lifestyle choices. Reducing free radical damage can help provide added protection against premature aging of skin and photodermatoses, immune system disorders, mood swings and heart, eye, and memory problems.

NOTABLE: The Ultimate Water System is 100% green and requires no electricity!

MICRO-CLUSTERED: Often times when we drink a lot of water, we either feel bloated or end up running off to relieve ourselves. When water is truly alkalizing and made into smaller clusters, as happens with AQUAVITA technology, the water is absorbed far better by the body at the cellular level. Instead of simply passing water through your system, micro-clustering promotes detoxification by allowing the water to absorb into your bloodstream and muscle tissues! The result is boosted energy levels, more hydrated skin and a healthier digestive tract.

HYDROGEN-RICH: Hydrogen infused water has been used to assist athletes in their recovery process, while reducing pain and inflammation as a result of chronic conditions such as arthritis. Active molecular hydrogen, like that found in AQUAVITA® water, significantly enhancing the body’s hydration, and allows you to feel more replenished with less water.

PURIFICATION: The AQUAVITA® Ultimate Water System is equipped with micro-glass fiber ultrapurification technology, and ensures the complete treatment of water. The system will remove all contaminants, from microorganisms and heavy metals to organic/inorganic material and pharmaceuticals. - Aquavita, www.aquavita.ca

Safe & Secure

SummerHomes 80% OF FIRE DEATHS OCCUR IN HOMES WITHOUT WORKING SMOKE ALARMS!

COVER YOUR BASES. Even if you have smoke and CO alarms in your home, you and your family may not be sufficiently protected if you don’t have enough devices.

To ensure the highest level of protection, follow the National Fire Protection Association’s recommendation to install smoke and CO alarms inside every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of the cottage, including the basement.

When opening up your cottage or vacation home for the season, consider adding smoke and carbon monoxide alarm upgrades to your to-do list. These necessary safety products are an easy addition, and yet many Canadians are under-protected and unprepared when it comes to detectable – and usually preventable – threats like smoke, fire and carbon monoxide (CO).

According to the Canadian National Fire Information Database, 80 per cent of fire deaths occur in homes without working smoke alarms, often due to missing batteries or expired alarms. Additionally, many homes lack proper CO protection, with a consumer survey reporting that more than one-third of Canadian homes don’t have CO alarms.

Often dubbed the “silent killer,” CO is an invisible, odorless gas that is impossible to detect without an alarm and is the number one cause of accidental poisoning in Canada.

Cottage Opening Ensure your first weekend at the cottage and every weekend all summer long is a success with these safety tips!

Before you head to the cottage, especially if it’s a far drive away, make sure to CHECK YOUR CAR’S lights, tire pressure and fluids. If it needs a tune-up, take it in for servicing before your trip.

TEST AND MAINTAIN ALARMS. Once enough alarms are installed, be sure to properly maintain them. Fire safety experts report that more than 60 per cent of consumers do not regularly test their smoke and CO alarms. Alarms should be tested regularly, and the batteries changed every six months.

Try This!

Go for a 10. One of the greatest advancements in alarm technology in recent years, 10-year sealed battery alarms offer convenient protection by eliminating lowbattery chirps and battery replacements for a decade. For ultimate cottage safety, upgrade to the First Alert 10-Year Combination Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm for 2-in-1 protection against both smoke and carbon monoxide. The alarm features a slim, contemporary design that mounts unobtrusively on a wall or ceiling.

And, with a 10-year battery, it eliminates the risk of having the alarm deactivated due to battery removal.

BE SAFE, REPLACE. Smoke and CO alarms are on duty 24/7 and need to be replaced at least every 10 years.

If you can’t remember when you installed your alarms, chances are, it’s time to replace them. Installing new ones ensures you are protected with the most advanced sensing technologies and the latest safety features available.

ASSEMBLE A CAR EMERGENCY KIT, including first-aid items, water and other tools so that you’re always prepared in the event of a breakdown. Restock your emergency kit on a seasonal basis.

MAKE SURE YOUR BOATING AND/OR FISHING LICENSE HASN’T EXPIRED. And, don’t forget to check that your boat trailer is in good working condition.

After arriving at the cottage, walk around and LOOK FOR ANY SIGNS OF WINTER DAMAGE TO THE EXTERIOR. Check the electricity meter and look for any signs of faulty or chewed wiring from weather or pests before turning on your power.

TEST YOUR COTTAGE SMOKE DETECTORS and replace the batteries if needed before you fire up the barbeque for the season!

4

BETTER NIGHTS

BETTER DAYS

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT: The Pressure Balance Latex System™ by NSC Medical is comprised of a patented pressure balance latex top layer with a soy Medi-foam base. The soy Medi-foam base neutralizes off-gassing as well as reducing heat retention The patented pressure balance latex top layer uses individual beams that are inter-connected assisting with pressure point relief while still providing a cloud-like comfort.

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT: Natural Elements™ by NSC Medical is a 100% all-natural latex mattress that provides firm body support, spinal realignment, and natural content with no synthetics, providing a true hypoallergenic and natural sleep environment.

For more information on therapeutic mattresses by NSC Medical, visit www.nscmedical.com.

Sleep is essential to proper health and wellness. A lack of proper sleep can cause drowsiness, difficulty concentrating, headaches and irritability.

A poor sleep, cause by an uncomfortable mattress, can also result in neck and joint pain. None of that sounds like a fun way to spend your summer weekends!

That’s why it’s so important to ensure you select high quality mattresses for your cottage!

When planning your cottage upgrades for this summer, take a few moments to consider the hours you will spend in bed and ensure you have a mattress that will allow you to get a good night’s sleep so you can fully enjoy the days and evenings spent out on the lake!

When selecting a mattress for the cottage, you want to look for the same features you would look for at home! A high-quality therapeutic mattress should offer improved support for your spine, temperature regulation and quality materials that are better for your health and the environment!

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT: The Hybrid Articulating System ™ by NSC Medical offers an organic cotton cover with a natural latex interior for hypoallergenic properties. Soy-based Medi-foam and Medi-gel layers assist with spinal realignment, pressure point relief, and regulating surface temperatures.

Debt 101

When Should I Get Help?

Nothing ruins a relaxing summer like the weight of debt hanging over your head. In fact, if you are someone who is struggling with debt, you likely find that it casts a shadow on everything!

Everybody knows someone who is in debt. Maybe it’s even you. Why is debt such a problem for Canadians?

Although poor budgeting is the leading cause of financial difficulties, it’s not the only reason. Lack of preparation for rainy days as well as unforeseen circumstances such as accidents, declining health, job loss, business failure, and divorce all play their part. The list is long and quite frankly concerning.

A recent survey from Ipsos revealed that nearly half (44%) of Canadians are $200 or less away from insolvency after paying their monthly debt obligations.

Here are critical signs to tell if you need to seek professional intervention: You are recycling through payments and not getting ahead because compounding interest is working against you.

You have no cashflow.

Your credit card statements calculate it will take you more than 60 months to pay off your debt in full.

You express anger in unhealthy ways.

You can’t sleep.

You can’t focus at work.

You have intrusive thoughts of self harm.

Debt is about more than just money.

It impacts your emotional, mental and physical well-being. It fractures relationships you value and hold dear.

Help is available but the world of insolvency is often confusing to navigate. You need to know where to look and who to look for. Most importantly you need to hire a debt relief expert who will exclusively advocate for you and represent what’s solely in your best interest. It’s essential to have someone on your side who’s committed to your immediate and future needs, not those of your creditors. Choosing a debt expert will help ensure the best outcome for your debt restructuring and financial rehabilitation.

For more detailed information on all the debt management options available as well as how to choose the right advocate for you, download my complimentary ebook at www.fromdebttolife.ca

You have a great credit score but were declined for a bank consolidation loan.

You experience anxiety when you think about your finances.

Your close relationships are strained.

You experience social anxiety and withdraw from people.

Jennifer Croft, Author and Debt Relief Expert

CANADIAN

destinations

TAKAKKAW FALLS, YOHO NATIONAL PARK

TOFINO, BRITISH COLUMBIA

PRINCE OF WALES HOTEL, WATERTON

Flowers are blossoming, warm breezes are blowing and with the increase in COVID-19 vaccinations, Canadians are starting to think about vacationing again. Staying closer to home is still the recommendation from public health experts, so let’s look at a few outdoor summer destinations across our beautiful country.

VANCOUVER ISLAND has no shortage of beautiful places to visit. You’re likely familiar with destinations such as Nanaimo and Courtney on the eastern side of the island but the western side also offers wonderful destinations such as Tofino. Tofino is in the UNESCO Clayoquot Sound Biosphere region and offers a diverse array of wildlife from wolves and bald eagles to gray whales, orcas, and sea lions. This little seaside town is also a surfer’s paradise. There are several places in town to rent equipment or to book a lesson.

Surfing is not the only outdoor activity to enjoy; you can also enjoy ziplining, biking, hiking, fishing, kayaking and golfing. An assortment of restaurants, breweries, distilleries and bakeries provide locally sourced products.

Just remember to enjoy the area mindfully.

YOHO NATIONAL PARK is located on the west side of the Rocky Mountains. The area was named for a Cree expression of awe and wonder. The nearest town and the home of the Yoho visitor centre is Field, British Columbia. From here you can take the Yoho Valley Road to visit Takakkaw Falls, one

of the highest in Canada. You can also drive to Emerald Lake and hike the 5 km trail around the lake, half of which is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. Another beautiful spot to see is Wapta Falls on the Kicking Horse River. There are several guided hikes that you can take as well. Guides will take you to the restricted Walcott Quarry or Mount Stephen fossil sites to view history up close or on a ‘species at risk’ hike to see many endangered plants and animals.

Both require a reservation so book early. The National Park includes 28 mountain peaks so don’t forget to bring your camera.

WATERTON LAKES NATIONAL PARK is as south as you can get in Alberta. The hamlet of Waterton Park is located where Upper and Lower Waterton Lakes meet. Here is where you will find canoe and kayak rentals, electric bikes, stand up paddle boarding and fantastic cruises on the lake. And don’t forget about the ice cream! I recommend Big Scoop Ice Cream Parlour! One of the main reasons to visit the area is for the world famous hiking trails. There’s everything from short hikes around the townsite to multi-day adventures for the hard-core hikers. The backdrop is mountains, wildflowers, and waterfalls. You can stay in one of the convenient campgrounds, one of the town’s rustic bed and breakfasts or stay at the Prince of Wales Hotel high on the bluff overlooking the town.

Moving eastward, we run into the CITY OF WINNIPEG. The city is full of interesting and artsy neighborhoods and activities. A highlight is The Forks, a National Historic site located where the Red River meets the Assiniboine River. This area was originally used as a rest stop for many aboriginal groups as they moved to warmer climates and later as a trading post for fur.

Today, The Forks is the location of the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, one of only two national museums located outside of the National Capital Region.

It is also home to the Forks Market and the Johnston Terminal building, both great places for souvenir and antique shopping. There are also many outdoor activities and festivals that occur in Winnipeg, such as Folklorama and the Manito Ahbee Festival, both in August. St. Boniface is Winnipeg’s French Quarter and is just a short walk from the Forks over the Esplanade Louis Riel Bridge. The best way to visit the area is to take a guided walking tour. The Assiniboine Park Zoo is best known for its polar bear exhibit, Journey to Churchill. Approximately one hour out of town you will arrive at Gimli where you can enjoy the beautiful beaches of Lake Winnipeg, as well as the historic Viking traditions and festivals they like to call ‘New Iceland’.

WINNIPEG, MANITOBA

PRINCE EDWARD COUNTY LAVENDER FARM, ONTARIO

Let’s head to Lake Country and visit PRINCE EDWARD COUNTY (PEC) ON LAKE ONTARIO. The white sand beaches and accessibility to water create the perfect storm for people who are looking to spend as much time in the water as possible. Kayaking, boating, wakeboarding and sailing are popular activities. The area is also a top culinary destination known for its ever-changing farm-to-table menus, as well as more than forty wineries, artisan cheese shops, and even a few distilleries. A visit to the charming Prince Edward County Lavender farm is also a necessity. Take a tour of the fields of lavender in the month of July to experience the peak flowering period and browse hand-crafted lavender products in the boutique. The music festivals and live theatre are another motivation to visit the area. The PEC professional summer theatre company provide a season of theatre for adults in July and August. In July you can also experience chamber music in unique environments with the Classical Unbound Festival. August brings the annual Jazz Festival and the Country Jamboree and September offers the 50s and 60s Rock ‘n Roll festival.

Driving the Cabot Trail in NOVA SCOTIA is an excellent way to experience the natural beauty of the Cape Breton Highlands. The highway is 298 km long and meanders its way through Cape Breton Highlands National Park. The park is known for its breathtaking

coastlines and mountain views and is best experienced by the 26 hiking trails located along its journey. There are also five ocean beaches and two freshwater lakes to enjoy. Visit the Acadian village Chéticamp to shop for unique handmade treasures or to listen to lively Acadian music. Wildlife viewing is an important part of the trail as you can experience aquatic life such as humpback whales, dolphins and harbor seals along the coastline but also obscure birds, mammals and reptiles. If you are a history buff, in Baddeck you can visit the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic site and in Glace Bay you can visit the Marconi National Historic site. If you are a hard-core bicyclist, you will want to do the six-day, self-guided bicycling tour along the Trail.

There is something magical about PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND in the summer. Maybe it is the sun shining off the red sand beaches or the scenic farmland located farther inland. In Charlottetown, you won’t want to miss the Confederation Centre of the Arts, an art gallery and five theatres located on a full city block. Enjoy an authentic PEI experience by watching Anne of Green Gables – The Musical or come for the Charlottetown Festival, the largest musical theatre festival in Atlantic Canada. Take the North Cape Coastal Drive on PEI’s Oyster Coast to learn more about the thriving Mi’kmaq culture or spend some down time on the beautiful beaches in the area. Thunder Cove Beach on the north shore is the perfect location to view towering sandstone cliffs and in Greenwich, you can see the biggest sand dunes in the province. Green Gables Heritage Place in Cavendish is a popular tourist attraction which explores the setting for Lucy Maud Montgomery’s novel and highlights the heritage of the area. If you are a golfer, The Links at Crowbush Cove was named one of the top two courses in Canada by SCORE Golf magazine and has been played by many popular golf professionals.

These are just a few Canadian destinations that would make for a fantastic summer vacation in 2021. It has been a long, lonely winter and you all deserve an escape.

Text by Heidi Lawrie B-Side Travel www.bsidetravel.com

CHETICAMP, NOVA SCOTIA

GREEN GABLE HERITAGE PARK, PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND

COVER

confidential

GO FROM THE BEACH TO THE DECK IN NO TIME AT ALL WITH THESE GORGEOUS SWIMSUIT COVER-UPS!

ELEGANCE UNDERCOVER What makes a great beach cover-up?

You want something that is easy to slip off and on, looks amazing and is light-weight and easy to bring along.

This wrap maxi dress has it all! The pretty summer pattern will look gorgeous whether you pair it with flip flops at the beach, strappy sandals for an afternoon on the deck or a pretty pair of pumps for a summer garden wedding! - Swimco, www.swimco.com

H&M, www.hm.com

This hooded tunic is made from recycled fibers! - La Vie En Rose,

GARDEN PARTY

www.lavieenrose.com

A stylish romper offers many of the same benefits of a jumper but in a shorter version for those extra warm days! This floral print will look amazing no matter where you go! - Bikini Village,

QUICK & EASY A hooded tunic or your favorite boyfriend shirt make a quick and easy swimsuit cover-up that looks fabulous!

FLEXIBLE COMFORT Jumpsuits are a great choice for full coverage that allows for plenty of movement. These gorgeous jumpsuits can be slipped over your swimsuit and will look amazing at the beach or out for drinks at your favorite summer patio hot spot! - Bikini Village, www.bikinivillage.com

www.bikinivillage.com

WEEKEND

essentials

A blend of hemp and organic cotton, this 2-tone zip hoodie is perfect for late nights out by the fire.

This Bamboo Draped Cardigan features a Vegan-friendly and animal cruelty-free knit that is lightweight, soft and cozy!

For a more formal look, a lightweight jacket like this Hemp princess cut jacket with a Mandarin collar is a great choice.

From early mornings spent sipping coffee on the deck to late evenings watching the sun set from the beach, not all weekend moments are warm and sunny. Ensure you have some warm layers close at hand so you don’t miss a thing!

Find these eco-friendly fashions and more at www.eco-essentials.com

WHY CHOOSE ECO-FRIENDLY CLOTHING? Whether your weekends are spent soaking up the sun on the beach, fishing at your favorite water hole or lounging on the deck, it’s all about nature! Eco-friendly clothing made from natural, renewable materials that are vegan and animal-cruelty free are just one way that you can help preserve and protect nature for future generations to enjoy as well!

Don’t Forget Hats and caps are important for protection from heat, sun, wind and more! Hemp material offers natural UV protection, making these Hemp pieces the perfect choice for a weekend spent outdoors!

THE BASIC TEE Nothing is more essential for a weekend at the cottage then a cozy pair of leggings or joggers and a classic tee. Keep a selection in a variety of colors and sleeve lengths on hand to allow for flexibility when it comes to weather, sun protection and more.

PREPARED FOR ANYTHING A simply black dress that can be dressed up or down for any occasion will allow you to be ready for unexpected guests, romantic dinners or late evening walks on the beach! This flowy bamboo tank swing dress is simple and elegant, whether paired with sandals or pumps! www.eco-essentials.com

this issue’s TRENDSETTERS A look inside the work and lives of some of the industry’s most innovative thinkers.

Paul LAFRANCE

Paul has also appeared on the Marc & Mandy Show numerous times in the past. Visit us at www.marcandmandy.com to find his segments!

The construction industry became Paul's career completely by accident.

As a young, 22-year-old, counterculture musician he suddenly found himself married with a mortgage. Paul, who had never used power tools in his life, was offered work with a friend, building wood fences in 1996! A year later, bored with building fences, Paul was invited to participate in a deck project and fell in love with the process. He quit his job, announced to his wife that they were opening up they own design and build company and Paul Lafrance Design (now The Lafrance Group) was born. Since that time, Paul has made a name for himself both as an expert in the deck building industry and as the host of numerous HGTV shows.

CHT: What sets you apart from the competition?

Paul: Well, I have an ADHD brain with a lifelong passionate interest in music, Lego, and people. How’s that for a non -conventional answer? Let me explain.

While the false ADHD social stigma conjures up images of highly distractible people, it is essential to understand that those people are only unfocused when trying to engage in activities that do not interest them.

The blood is literally not flowing through the front portion of their brains. My wife can tell you all about this. *wink* However, the flip-side to this is if the ADHD individual IS interested in what they are engaged with, they become hyper-focused, and will typically outperform everyone around them. Therefore, since I have always loved how I can impact emotions through art, build whatever I can imagine like Lego, and through my focused attention, allow people to express their own personal stories... I have been able to bring all three elements into my design and build projects, which has led to some rather extraordinary results.

CHT: What's new and exciting for you right now?

Paul: There have been many people asking where I’ve been over the past number of years, and now I can finally tell you. In 2018, while still running my company and filming shows for HGTV, I began filming what was initially supposed to be a series of simple, product review videos on one of my larger backyard projects. It wasn’t long into initial filming that I realized I had the opportunity to make the show that I always wanted to make. A show that is 100% raw, authentic, and most importantly, shows the mistakes that

happen on a project, not just the perfect results at the end. This was not possible to do in the 22-minute format of all my previous shows. So I put on my producer’s hat, my director’s hat, and my TV host hat (I mentioned the positives of ADHD. *smirk*). I worked with a brilliant one-man-show videographer named Matt Manteiga from SkyDefinition Motion Pictures to create a networkquality show called “Backyard Revolution.”

It’s a 14 episode series based on one wild project, and showcases new and innovative products from over 40 companies. It’s a series that is best described as “Decked Out meets Deadpool”. It’s unlike any renovation reality show you’ve ever seen, and allows for the viewer to get a much clearer picture of the homeowner/ contractor relationship, while also getting to laugh their heads off watching me fall on my face a number of times. We decided to make the show available to the world on my new Paul Lafrance YouTube channel. We also have a goal to promote and inspire other independent filmmakers as we raise funds for Backyard Revolution Season 2!

CHT: If you could go back 20 years, what advice would you give your younger self?

Paul: Your thoughts are not you!

Chose what you think about. Don’t let that choice be made for you. Listen to your father’s advice when he said “Son, don’t let that rent space in your head.”

CHT: What is your favorite room in your house?

Paul: My living room. There is nothing better than having open conversations with our four daughters in the same room, while laughing at Cosmo the dog, and Tony Stark the cat play-fighting. But when that same living room overlooks a sunset on Georgian Bay? Yeah. Pretty awesome.

Chris & Jeff GALER Cousins Chris & Jeff Galer grew up with some big shoes to fill as the fourth generation of the family behind Poco Building Supplies! Today, the pair stand at the helm as they take their family's legacy into it's centennial year, celebrating 100 years in business in 2021! After 100 years of family ownership, Poco Building Supplies is ingrained into the community so much so that you can't discuss the history of Poco without mentioning Poco Building Supplies.

Many customers have stories of coming to the store with their parents and grandparents and it's almost as important for them to continue the legacy as it is for Chris, Jeff and the rest of the family! Family is the center of everything, from customers who have been shopping here for 2+ generations to a staff that includes many of the staff and customers' siblings, children, cousins and second cousins! Poco Building Supplies prides

itself on offering outstanding service while being nimble and able to pivot quickly when needed. As an independent TIMBERMART dealer, they aren't tied to any fixed distribution channels and so acquiring products on the fly is easier.

Jeff: Our website and online presence is something that our staff has worked tirelessly to set up. Although it is not brand new, it is something that I am extremely proud of and happy to see it always evolving to ensure that we stay ahead of the curve.

CHT: What is new and exciting for your business right now?

CHT: If you could go back 20 years, what advice would you give your younger self?

Chris: Scottywood thermally modified western hemlock and ash decking and dimensional lumber is poised to be a big mover for us in 2021. They are beautiful products that are ultra stable because of the Scandinavian process of super heat treating the wood. It removes potential food sources for pests and renders the wood almost impervious to twisting, cupping and bowing. It also takes on a really golden tone through the heating process and once it's finished with a natural wood oil, it looks fantastic.

Chris: Invest in Apple stock.

Jeff: Although I love my cousin’s answer and would love Apple money, I can't imagine being much happier than I am today. As silly as it sounds, I would tell myself to “keep on keepin’ on”. I could tell myself something that would have me rich beyond my wildest dreams but that doesn't necessarily mean I'd be happy today and that is what means the most to me.

Expert Advice IF YOU COULD GIVE A POTENTIAL CLIENT JUST ONE PIECE OF ADVICE, WHAT WOULD IT BE?

John Galer with young Chris Galer circa 1978 (left) and Chris with son Henry Galer in 2016 (right) CHT: If you could have lunch with any one person in the world, who would you pick and why?

Chris: It's hard not to pick a real luminary figure like Stacey Abrams, Barack Obama or Bill Gates but I think I'd end up leaning towards a more juvenile instinct and picking someone that would make me laugh and have some great stories to tell. I'm a huge fan of Will Arnett and I'd really enjoy lunch with him. Or Bob Newhart.

Jeff: Other than my wife (in case she sees this), I would have to say Tiger Woods.

CHT: What is your favorite room?

Chris: Almost every night, I snuggle with my five year old and we listen to a three song playlist as he falls asleep. Usually we both fall asleep to Wheat Kings. Right now, that's probably my favorite room.

Jeff: Definitely my backyard. I have grown up with a pool my entire life and am lucky enough to have one today. During the warm months, it's where we spend most of our time.

Other than that, my 5 year old sons room for sure. I don't have a man cave in my house so we've basically turned my son’s room into the man cave.

Chris: It's cliche but 'You get what you pay for:.... Price alone doesn't determine value and while we work hard to ensure that we are always priced fairly in the marketplace, it's important that customers appreciate that our service and expertise is driven by our profitability. Clients who understand our need to make profit and value our service point are typically the best to deal with.

Jeff: Support local businesses. If Covid has taught us anything, it is that when times are tough, it's the small local businesses that are affected the most. I don't mean to suggest that in the sense of Poco Building Supplies but all local businesses. Any little bit helps and these businesses are the backbone of these towns.

Greg

TURCOTTE

Greg Turcotte grew up in the cleaning industry. He took the knowledge he had of the carpeting cleaning industry and applied it to the rug washing industry, launching Heirlook Rug Cleaning over 25 years ago! Since then, Greg has become one of the foremost experts in vintage rug cleaning around the world. He regularly hosts Rug Summits for other rug washers worldwide, teaching all aspects of what happens in a rug washing facility. He has designed revolutionary equipment and supplies for rug washers including the world's first dual-port rug wringer centrifuge and a line of cleaning products.

Heirloom Rug Cleaning is a full-service shop offering cleaning, repairs of all types and severity, as well as underlayment and fabric protection.

We can also prep your rug for shipping and storage. One exciting new addition to their shop is a specialized underlay for rugs from Rug Pad Wizard that has a unique Pet Barrier that stops liquids from going all the way to the hardwood floor beneath the rug.

Pet urine can be damaging to floor

PROJECT SPOTLIGHT: Valued at about $1,000,000, "Unity" by Tamara Jaworska is the largest tapestry piece in Canada. The piece is made up of Irish Linen, hand spun wool, commercial wool, horse hair, silver thread, Lurex® (metallic yarns), feathers and even a few real pieces of dried grass which mean wet cleaning had to be done on site and with extra care.

surfaces and the Pet Barrier prevents that. It comes with a limited lifetime warranty and can be washed just like your rug to maintain cleanliness.

CHT: If you could give a potential client just one piece of advice, what would it be?

GREG: NOT to BUY VISCOSE RUGS!!

This is a plague on our industry, our environment, and the wallets of our clients. That is a huge topic all by itself. Viscose is also known as rayon, art silk, artificial silk, bamboo silk, banana silk, and so on. It is plant material that has been turned to pulp, and with many toxic chemical baths, it is spun into a yarn in a production cycle that is one of the most toxic production processes in our history! In fact, the process is banned in the US because of the health and safety risk the processes poses to employees. Viscose products are manufactured in other countries where employee safety is not a priority.

Viscose fibers are often sold as “luxury” fibers to uneducated

consumers and so the demand for the product continues. Viscose fibers are some of the worst performing in the world and viscose rugs have a very short lifespan as they are stained, faded and damaged easily. Something as simple as a water spill can permanently damage a viscose carpet!

CHT: If you could have lunch with any one person in the world, who would you pick?

GREG: Jeff Bezos from Amazon. He is one of the most well-known entrepreneurs who started from very humble beginnings to being one of the richest men in the world. It would be nice to have a down-to-earth conversation about how small companies can become more efficient at what they do and become more profitable.

CHT: If you could go back 20 years, what advice would you give your younger self?

GREG: Get started earlier on the ideas in your head. Don’t wait!

Tania-Joy BARTLETT CHT: What advice would you give young women who are considering a career in the trades?

TANIA-JOY: Just do it! If you really want to become a trade person don’t let anyone stand in your way. No matter how many times you are told no, do not give up.

Let your knowledge, perseverance, dedication and quality of work speak for you, not what society has dictated for you.

Hard work and perseverance will pay off and you will enjoy everyday at work.

With more than twenty years of experience in trades, TaniaJoy Bartlett comes with as impressive list of skills. Not only is she a master electrician, heavy equipment operator and a truck driver, she is also the owner of New Beginnings Contracting Services.

New Beginnings launched in 2018 with the goal to provide all -in-one quality contracting services for the customer and a better work environment for her staff. Tania's staff are experienced and carry tickets in just about every trade necessary to complete a renovation. Tania believes in growth and education, consistently encouraging her staff to gain new experience, grow their list of qualifications and improve their skills through training and experience. As a result, New Beginnings can offer a dedicated, all-in-one service with qualified trades professionals who are passionate about their work and dedicated to providing a quality finished project for each and each customer.

CHT: If you could have dinner with any one person, who would you pick?

Tania-Joy: Arlene Dickenson from Dragon's Den. She is a female entrepreneur, isn't afraid to get her hands dirty, pushes boundaries and juggles life and work better than anyone.

CHT: What inspires you?

Tania-Joy: The people around me, my employees, my customers and everyone I get to encounter in this amazing career.

CHT: What is your favorite room in your house?

Tania-Joy: My kitchen is where I do everything; work, read, eat and watch TV. CHT: What advice would you give your younger self?

Tania-Joy: To do my apprenticeship earlier! www.newbeginningscontractingservices.org

MUSKOKA TEXT | JAMES PITROPOV WWW.LAKESIDEARCHITECTURE.CA

magic

#coverspotlight wiith James Pitropov ARCHITECT JAMES PITROPOV GIVES US AN INSIDE LOOK AT A STUNNING MUSKOKA COTTAGE AND BOATHOUSE PROJECT.

This classic Lake Muskoka custom built cottage and boathouse were part of a larger site strategy that optimized upon the best panoramic views of Bear Bay. It has a sought after southern exposure and a slope that is sheltered from north winds. The cottage sits high on an elevated point of land overlooking the calm waters. The layout is a cottage and extensive landscaped outdoor living space on the ridge with a three-slip boathouse and docks at lake level. The house has a traditional Lake Muskoka layout that is orientated to the southern exposure. The boathouse is oriented south easterly to be accessible from the deepest part of the bay and protect swimming and natural areas on the southern part of the point. The landscaped area steps down the contours of the land and there are

terraces cut into the slope where you can sit and watch the view. They are often brimming with butterflies and hummingbirds.

You get glimpses of the cottage and landscaped outdoor living areas from the lake and up through the wooded hillside. But it is the complimentary boathouse and docks that really welcomes visitors coming in across the lake. The boathouse visually connects you to the secret world up the slope. It is an experience arriving by boat and having a choice to stay as a guest at the lake level Bunkie over the boathouse. Winding your way up the naturally landscaped room to enjoy the convenience and views of the main cottage make the experience of the site memorable!

The design of the cottage and boathouse incorporated cedar shakes, natural stone, Douglas Fir wood timbers and cedar decking. The cottage features a double height stone fireplace in the central great room. The great

room has beamed cathedral ceilings and magnificent clerestory windows. The Cottage has an unprecedented view of beautiful Lake Muskoka. The boathouse has the same features at a cosier scale! In order to meet height restrictions, the attic Bunkie in the boathouse is lower but more open than expected due to the cathedral ceilings made possible by timber beams.

EXPERT TIP: A major mistake cottage owners make is buying a cottage without much thought to the actual site itself. The site and its frontage on the lake along with solar and wind orientation can be the most important factor in enjoying your cottage. You need to have areas of good sunlight and some breeze to keep the bugs down.

It’s helpful if there are deeper areas for your boathouse and diving. Shallow hard bottomed

areas are safe and remain clear which is great as a beach area for young kids, non-swimmers and pets. Natural soft bottomed areas can be good for turtles and sunfish. You can fish there but swimming might be hazardous plus you do not want to disturb sensitive natural hotspots on your property. Also, you should think about the character of the lake itself. Is it more of a party/jet boating lake or quiet and natural?

Please make sure you will be a good neighbor on the lake! If you don’t have that, no matter how beautiful your cottage is, you may never enjoy those special extended hours of playing in the sunshine late into the day or sitting around a firepit with pleasant summer evening breezes. You can always change the cottage but you can’t change the site. Find the lake that fits your personality and you will achieve great friendships and a lifetime of memories.

#buyerschecklist with Bill Jackson For many homeowners, owning a cottage or vacation property is a dream come true. When searching for your perfect vacation property, there are a few special considerations to keep in mind.

WATERFRONT EXPOSURE: When you envision your perfect day at the cottage, do you start off by taking in a sunrise on the deck with a cup of coffee or do you end the day sitting around a bonfire watching the sunset? Determining your preference will help narrow down the locations that best suit your lifestyle.

ACCESSIBILITY: It is important to understand what access options the property will offer. Is there road access or is it water access only? Are access routes well maintained or will it become more difficult based on weather or season? While these issues may not be deal breakers, it is important to understand your options and be honest with ourself as to what level of accessibility you require to be able to fully enjoy your property.

SEASONALITY: How do you intend to use your vacation home? Is it simply a getaway during the summer months or do you envision Christmas mornings spent around the fireplace at the cottage? Not all cottages and locations are suitable for year-round use, if that is your intention.

AMENITIES: While the goal is likely to have a place to escape from the day to day, proximity to things like hospitals, shopping and restaurants can be an important consideration as well. Having these options available within reasonable driving distance may make it easier for you to spend larger periods of time at the cottage.

WATER QUALITY: The depth and condition of the body of water is something you will want to ask about. Is it rocky, sandy, mucky or weedy? Are you looking for sandy beaches with great swimming or a good fishing spot? You will also want to ask about regulations on the water. Some lakes do not allow for electric motors for example.

WATERFRONT WIDTH: The width of your waterfront access is another important consideration. While there may appear to be a large waterfront area, you will want to know how much of that waterfront is actually part of your property. www.lakecountryrealestateteam.com

RUSTIC UPDATES

POWERED UP

Cottage living can mean different things to different people. For some, a cottage is simply a home in a more rural location where there are opportunities to enjoy nature close at hand but with all the amenities of home. For others, the cottage is a place off the beaten path where access to everyday amentias like internet, phone service and the like are limited or non-existent. This rustic setting offers a true escape from the day to day hustle but it can come with its own obstacles such as limited plumbing, limited access to electrical service and the like. Here are a few tips to help get the most out of your rustic cottage setting!

A gas powered generator is a must have for cottages that are off the beaten path. Poor weather conditions can result in a loss of power, sometimes for days at a time.

Ensure you have a system large enough to power your basic needs such as heating systems, lighting and food storage. (Photo source: www.globotools.com)

KITCHEN QUEEN Just because you’re roughing it, doesn’t mean you need to spend your whole weekend lugging water and cleaning!

Saniflo offers a number of fantastic options for cottage owners that allow you to improve your plumbing at a fraction of the cost!

The SANIVITE drain pump is one example.

The SANIVITE system can be used to drain gray water from a sink, dishwasher, washing machine, shower and more! This makes it possible to add additional plumbing features to your cottage quickly and easily!

Strong enough to handle hot water and grease, the SANIVITE is small enough to fit comfortably inside a kitchen cabinet or vanity or inside the overhang of a whirlpool.

Saniflo, www.saniflo.ca

Key INGREDIENT

ARE YOU BUILDING A NEW COTTAGE OR RENOVATING AN EXISTING ONE? Your flooring choice may be one of the most important choices you make.

Often, the demands placed on a cottage floor are much greater than those placed on the average household floor due to numerous factors including: drastic changes in temperature, sand, water/ moisture dragged in from the beach, pets from all your friends, and family that pop over for the weekend or the week. It is for these reasons that more consideration should be placed on the functionality and durability of your cottage floor.

COTTAGE FLOORING OPTIONS TO CONSIDER LUXURY PLANK VINYL (LPV) flooring is rigid, waterproof, stable, lowmaintenance and does a pretty good job of imitating the look of wood and tile.

Water resistant laminates, like LPV’s are usually stable, scratch resistant (pet and sand friendly) and low maintenance.

ENGINEERED HARDWOODS are more stable than traditional solid hardwood floors. It makes them a great choice for cottages where homeowners want the real wood look and feel, and expansion is a concern.

CERAMIC AND NATURAL STONE TILE are great options for areas subject to moisture or heavier abuse such as bathrooms, mudrooms, kitchens and entries.

Your local flooring supplier will know their products best and will be able to assist you in choosing the flooring best suited to your needs. As with any design element, it is important that you love the look and functionality of your floor and that you are choosing it to please yourself and not for someone else.

Today’s flooring options are both functional and fashionable.

The right cottage flooring choice will provide you with years of high performance, low-maintenance living, freeing you up to spend more time enjoying the sun! - C.A.L. Tile & Hardwood, www.caltileandhardwood.ca

We Love...

BI-FOLDING

Door System

Enjoying the cottage isn’t just about what you enjoy, but also how you enjoy it. Sometimes we want shelter from the bugs and weather. Other times, we just want a cool breeze and fresh air.

Sometimes we wish the whole wall to be gone, blurring the lines between indoors and outdoors to create a singular open area to enjoy…even for just a few hours.

To do so would be a seemingly impossible task, but wait. Hearing this problem all too often, we managed to push the envelope and developed a unique solution with the WeatherMaster© Plus Bi-Folding Door System. A wall, a passage door, a screened opening, a door system that stacks out of the way when you want it gone to create a truly seamless flow between the inside and outside.

The WeatherMaster© Plus Bi-folding door is made with fully thermally broken frames, sills and doors for cold weather. It comes standard with WeatherMaster© Vertical-four-track Windows, Multi-Point European Locks and hardware. Available in 5 colors and 6 screens to choose from, with an additional option of 4 tints of Viewflex vinyl. It is 100% custom sized, has no kit configuration limit, with heights up to 118” tall.

Additionally, the Vertical-4-Track windows can be opted out for single glazed tempered glass as well as full thermal glass with LowE Argon standard.

Meaning that the WeatherMaster© Plus Bi-folding Door System can be used in an exterior house wall for all year comfort. - Sunspace Sunrooms, www.sunspacesunrooms.com

WATER TREATMENT

solutions

We all enjoy our time at the cottage and relaxing in nature. However, the more rustic environment could mean your water may not be safe for drinking or cooking. Ensuring that your family has safe drinking water is extremely important and, depending on your location and water source, you may need a customized water treatment plan. At Water Depot we carry a full range of water treatment equipment, made to work alone or in tandem, to provide your family with the best water quality possible.

An ULTRAVIOLET (UV) SYSTEM is proven to be the best way to disinfect your water against water-borne microorganisms and pathogens. The system uses a UV lamp to inactivate microorganisms, without the use of chemicals, drastically improving the quality of your water. Quite often, lake and well water will require pretreatment to ensure that the water entering the UV is allowing the highest level of disinfection possible.

Both lake and well water can have sediment, sand, and silt in it, which can affect the UV system. Placing a SEDIMENT PRE FILTER ahead of the system will help capture these materials, allowing your UV system to work more effectively.

A TANNIN FILTER removes the amber colour created by rotting leaves and other materials found in cottage water. Removing tannins, ahead of the UV system, helps the UV lamp work at its most efficient.

Iron-laden water, which leaves rust stains in your sink and toilet, and has an unpleasant taste and odor, is a common problem in cottage country.

Water Depot’s septic bed-safe, IRON SLAYER reduces the iron in your water, without the addition of any chemicals.

To get started with your customized water treatment plan, contact us today for your complimentary in-home water test. - The Water Depot, www.waterdepot.com

Chemical-free options to disinfect and clean your water, reduce iron and more!

Cottage

Workspace

With more and more people working from home, the ability to spend more of your summer at the |cottage rather than just coming out for the weekends has been realized by many!

SET A SCHEDULE! The goal is to be able to spend more time at the cottage, not to spend less time enjoying the cottage!

Scheduling set working hours ensures specific times are set for work and for relaxing so you can balance productivity with enjoying your time at the cottage!

CONNECTIVITY MATTERS! In order to successfully turn your cottage or vacation home into a work space, you need to be able to connect to your office. In most cases, this will mean ensuring you have the best possible internet connection.

Keep weather complications in mind as well.

Storm weather can cause power outages and take down internet connections, sometimes for days at a time. Be prepared for outages with a gas powered generator and battery powered satellite WiFi. (This is a wise idea for any cottage, home office or otherwise - in case of emergencies!)

EFFYDESK, www.effydesk.ca

CREATE FLEXIBLE WORKSPACE! A standing desk is a great choice for any office - including at the cottage. The desk is easily adjusted to sit or stand, allowing you greater flexibility in your work space. There are many articles out there on the possible health benefits of standing instead of sitting and the option to sit or stand allows you to adjust to take in the view, keep your workspace at eye level on the go and more!

Digital Bonus Organize your space with these DIY ideas from www.MarcandMandy.com!

FINDING SPACE Working from home, or from the cottage, can be a wonderful opportunity but in order to make it successful, it is important to plan your work space to accommodate your needs adequately.

CONSIDER YOUR WORK HABITS: When choosing a location for your cottage office, consider your own work habits.

For some, a room with a beautiful view of nature will help them be inspired.

For others, such a view would simply leave them distracted and unable to focus. Know what works best for you and plan accordingly.

NOISE CONTROL: Noise may not seem like something you’d need to consider much at the cottage but this can depend an a number of factors.

Do you have family that will be at the cottage with you? Do you have friends or family that often visit? Are you located within ear shot of a beach or other public area? These are all things that may need to be considered when choosing a location for your home office.

Color Code

LOCATION: An outbuilding with electrical can be a great spot for an office provided it is not located too close to sources of noise you can’t control. Setting up your office outside of the cottage may make it easier to separate work hours from vacation hours.

If an outbuilding is not an option, find a space within the cottage that can be earmarked as work space. If possible, choose a separate room that allows you to separate work from the rest of the cottage. If a separate room is not an option, look into enclosed bookshelves and multi-functional furniture that will allow you to hide office work away from during off hours.

DIY Office Supplies Organizer

Home Office Storage Shelf

Colors will have an influence on your emotions, energy, and focus. Choosing the right colors for your cottage office can play a part in maximizing your productivity and minimizing your stress.

Avoid cool colors. While cool blue, green, grey or violet can promote feelings of peace and relaxation, they are better suited for a bedroom or bathroom than an office.

Embrace warm shades and neutrals. Whites, warm greys, and light neutrals are great choices if your job requires concentration. Green with undertones of yellow are inoffensive to the eye and can promote concentration and feelings of balance. A warm shade of lavender is a great choice for balancing creativity and tranquility as well.

Use caution with bold colors like yellow and red. While they can promote optimism and energy, they can also be disruptive. Find yourself easily bored? Consider adding touches of these colors in artwork, an area rug or a lampshade.

MAXIMIZING

your space

The cottage often offers a smaller living space than your home and yet it likely hosts a larger group of people over the summer months! Improving your outdoor living space is a great way to expand without increasing the square footage of your cottage!

LET YOUR PERSONALITY SHINE: With over 40 designer fabric options to choose from, ShadeTree® Retractable Canopy Systems can be customized to suit your design esthetic! We love the bold pop of color the canopy brings to this patio.

Repeating the color in your accessories and even in the plants, creates a designer look with ease.

HAVE IT YOUR WAY: One of the key advantages of a retractable canopy is flexibility! In almost all cases, you’ll find that your patio or deck offers beautiful sunlight for part of the day and harsh heat at other times. A retractable canopy lets you cover and uncover your outdoor living space with ease, depending on what best suits the current weather!

A ROOM WITH A VIEW: At the cottage, the dock is often a popular spot to gather and enjoy the summer hours. Of course, on particularly hot days, this space can become almost unbearable unless you are in the water. And then there is also the worry about sun burns and UV ray damage!

The addition of a pergola and canopy turns your dock into an outdoor room instantly. Now you have a pleasant space to sit and visit right at the water’s edge. In addition to blocking the harsh sunlight, a canopy also helps protect you and your guests from damaging UV rays while still enjoying the benefits of being outdoors!

ADD OR IMPROVE: A retractable canopy system can be customized to suit your unique situation. If you already have a pergola or outdoor room in place but it doesn’t provide the shade you were hoping for, adding a retractable canopy system is the perfect solution.

However, if you simply have an empty deck or balcony space, or no outdoor living space at all, ShadeTree® offers several options to create that space for you.

These low-maintenance systems, made from aluminum or vinyl, include options that can be freestanding or attached to your existing home, allowing you to create an outdoor room anywhere you wish, and one that will stay beautiful for years to come!!

For more information, visit www.shadetreecanopies.com

We Love...

AlumaDeck

We rarely pay attention to what’s underfoot, until we either hurt ourselves or notice rot and weathering. Spring may be a time of enjoyment, but your docks and decks now require maintenance. Allow us to introduce, to you and your lower back pains, Sunspace AlumaDeck, commonly used for decks, docks and any other location you want that maintenance free life style, for you and the family.

We all know, or have had experiences with, wood, composite wood, PVC and fiberglass walkways and decks. Supposedly maintenance-free, but looks aged after a few years and all these materials hold heat. Giving our families hot surfaces for bare feet is not what anyone wants.

Sunspace AlumaDeck is made from recycled aluminum which conducts heat away, allowing it to stay cool to the touch when correctly installed.

Available in 4 finishes, (Grey, Sand, Cedar and Grey Woodgrain), it has no gaps for debris or weather to fall through. Its built-in drainage prevents damp and musty ground beneath it, creating a protected area below.

It is perfect for additional storage or as a space for relaxing and enjoying the outdoor.

Sunspace AlumaDeck is guaranteed not to crack, rust, fade or degrade like other decks do!

More time to spend with friends, family enjoying the maintenance free Out of Doors.

AlumaDeck is truly a simple solution. - Sunspace Sunrooms, www.sunspacesunrooms.com

WHAT’S YOUR COTTAGE

Style?

OUR EDITORS SHARE THREE STUNNING IDEAS FOR YOUR COTTAGE KITCHEN! ARE YOU MORE COUNTRY CLASSIC, KITCHEN BY THE SEA OR MODERN MARVEL?

Living Lighting www.livinglighting.com

Pomelli Designs www.pomellidesigns.com Lagostina www.shoplagostina.ca

Saybrook Sage HC-114, Swiss Coffee OC-45 Benjamin Moore, www.benjaminmoore.com

Country Classic Create an instant classic with plenty of personality with cabinetry in shades of cream and sage, topped with an elegant countertop and grounded by a mid-tone hardwood floor! Add hardware and ligh%ng that offer a %meless style. For this space, we love the mix of metals and finishes for added visual interest!

Digital Bonus Click here to learn more about this flooring option!

Breezewood Floors www.breezewoodfloors.ca

Take Us For Granite www.takeusforgranite.ca

Living Lighting www.livinglighting.com

Take Us For Granite, www.takeusforgranite.ca

The Door Maker www.doormaker.ca

Pomelli Designs www.pomellidesigns.com Home Depot www.homedepot.com

Kitchen by the Sea The co*age is the perfect spot to embrace the colors and textures of nature in your décor!

For this beach-inspired kitchen, we envision XL Rus%c hardwood floors in place of the sandy beach and a stunning countertop reminiscent of rocky shores! Shaker-style white cabinetry sets the stage with a lovely blue for the island to bring in the color of the sea and sky!

Digital Bonus Click here to learn more about this flooring option!

Breezewood Floors www.breezewoodfloors.ca

Take Us For Granite www.takeusforgranite.ca

Living Lighting www.livinglighting.com

Pomelli Designs www.pomellidesigns.com Manor Green 2047-20, Benjamin Moore, www.benjaminmoore.com

Modern Marvel Digital Bonus Click here to learn more about this flooring option!

Breezewood Floors www.breezewoodfloors.ca

If you’ve always wanted to experiment with bold color but haven’t had the opportunity, the co*age is a great place to do just that! Star%ng with a pale hardwood floor to keep the space bright and open, this kitchen features bold green cabinetry with dark black countertops and a mix of black and gold accessories for a bold take on natural colors and textures.

COLORFUL

cottage

TEXT | ANDI HOOK, WWW.HOOKANDHOOKDESIGNS.COM

While exploring Vancouver Island, a veterinary oncologist from California and her husband, a professional chef, fell in love with this gorgeous Piers Island property and purchased it for their dream vacation home. Her husband unfortunately passed before the project was complete so being able to finish this for her and complete the dream they had shared made this project even more meaningful to us.

We delve deep with our clients and get to know their style, what speaks to them, what they envision in their space instead of trying to pass on what my style may be.

The clients are Californians, which we are familiar with (my partner is from California and I lived there for 5 years) but they wanted something a little more Vancouver Island. They wanted to include their collection of ingenious art work as well as other local artisans & also wanted to feel the outside while inside hence the teals and aqua colors along with the more neutral colors.

We gutted the kitchen, main bathroom/laundry & master bathroom. The main bathroom and laundry were originally reversed so it was a very tiny awkward space.

We reversed the layout to provide a large walk in shower, ample vanity space and more cabinetry storage beside the shower. We were lucky that the house is on a large crawl/ basement that is open for access to plumbing.

The deck was a big splurge. It is all new Ice wood unfinished which is a Brazilian hardwood that is mold, fire (same rating as steel and concrete), weather and pestresistant. It resists scratches, is three time harder than cedar and is one of the densest. We offset the cost by saving on flooring as we were able to have them sanded and refinished throughout.

I love the use of color & textures in this home. In addition to teal cabinetry with an aqua backsplash that looks like waves in the kitchen, the entire master bath floor is a soft green/blue mix of pebbles that feel fantastic on your feet especially as it’s heated.

This pebble texture feels amazing on heated floors!

ANDI’S DESIGN TIP: Color can be scary but it can also be freeing. If you're nervous about adding color into your home, try not to let what others think sway you. Color can bring life to a room. It can be calming, uplifting, energizing and more. If used correctly, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming.

SALVAGED

hideaway

Among all the uncertainties and dilemmas that Covid brought, the excess of free time led many people to do other things. Some picked up new skills, a new language or a music instrument, some started baking or gardening, some adopting a new pet or signed up for online classes, organizing the attic ... you name it! Like many others, the onset of Covid-19 in March of 2020 resulted in an indefinite lay-off for my husband and a greatly reduced workload for myself. My husband and I decided to take advantage of the free time and transform a run-down workshop we own in Sooke into a little livable cottage using ONLY recycled or

salvaged and discounted items. The actual labor was done mostly by my husband and I and few local trades.

The workshop is 400 sq ft and part of an acreage we bought a few years ago. There is a main house on the lot and this moldy workshop with T-bar ceiling and foam walls which was mainly used as storage by the original owners. Our original plan was to spruce up the main house and rent it out until we are ready to spend more time there in the next few years. But then Covid happened and moving to Sooke seemed the best isolation plans.

To feel productive and make something good out of the bad, we decided to turn the workshop into a one bedroom cottage. Obviously, doing the project on a tight budget was the most important thing. We decided to achieve our goal by using only recycled, salvaged, slightly used finishes and work with local suppliers/talents. My husband, who is an optical engineer by profession, is a very resourceful and talented man and the main force behind the whole operation.

He picked up carpentry along the way and physically helped building the cottage from start to finish. I was the “art and culture minister” and poured LOTS of coffee of course!

The cottage has turned out to be beautiful and very charming. As restrictions ease up, friends and family are dying to come and stay there for a night or two! The beautiful space with terrazzo floors,

TEXT | NEGAR REIHANI WWW.SPACEHARMONY.CA

cedar walls, wood burning stove, torched wooden kitchen countertop (it’s a Japanese wood working skill which my husband picked up!) and a loft bedroom with a Japanese style cotton mattress, is the oasis of calm and tranquility.

My husband is now back to work so there is happy ending to the story. We are planning to either rent the cottage and keep the main house for us or visa-versa depending on how things develop in future.

ISLAND

paradise

TEXT | GABRIELE PIZZALE, WWW.PIZZALEDESIGNINC.COM

This was a unique project in that the homeowner lived in Toronto but wanted to build a summer home for her family by the ocean in P.E.I. where she grew up. We worked from the architect drawings to space plan the entire 5000 square foot interior, millwork for all rooms, ceiling details, all furnishings and fixtures but we were able to do all the presentations live because the client lived here. We also worked with the builder to ensure all measurements were correct and gave plans to local trades to produce millwork.

Since this was an ocean front home, the homeowners wanted a casual and

welcoming vibe. An upscale cottage with a very fresh feel. We used white paneling ship lap and a blue, green and neutral color palette with touches of nature.

The woods were like drift wood, and fabrics had an organic feel.

Hardwood, tile and fixtures were sourced here and then purchased there. The lighting, furnishing and drapery were all from Ontario. We splurged on the seating. We are firm believers that sofa and chairs need to be very comfortable and well made. We were furnishing and accessorizing a large home which meant there was not much left in the budget for the little things so we selected accessories with budget in mind.

We triple checked all items before shipping and then we used a cross country moving company to move all the products and flew down to the island for the install. Once we arrived, we had just 3 days to set up the home. The first day we directed the movers as to where to place all the rugs and furnishing.

The next day was spent supervising drapery and artwork installation, and purchasing local accessories. On the final day, we conducted a photo shoot and had the grand reveal for the client. It was a whirlwind for sure!

Of course, with such a tight time frame, there are bound to be hick ups. When we arrived, the contractor had not finished and the house was a mess with 10 trades people still working. We spent a lot of time cleaning floors before the rugs could go down.

Thanks to due diligence, the project was completed on time despite the hick ups.