Living Luxe Magazine - Autumn 22 • Vol 4 Issue 5

MELISSA GRELO

PRACTICAL MAGIC

RUSTIC COMFORT

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The Art Of Surgery

Dr. Philip Solomon OTOLARYNGOLOGISTHEAD & NECK SURGEON PRACTICING IN FACIAL PLASTIC SURGERY

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“When the weather starts to change and the beauty of autumn starts to be showcased, one of my favorite things to experience is apple picking with my daughter and nephew while having apple cider or hot chocolate!”

JENNA BITOVE-NAUMOVICH

CONTRIBUTING FASHION EDITOR

“I love cozying up on a patio with a heater or the corner of one of my favourite restaurants and having wine and pizza with a close friend. I also like going to the movies with my brothers on Sundays.”

TAMARA BAHRY WRITER

“Putting on a cozy sweater and exploring the Toronto’s ravines with my dog and anticipating a crackling fire at home while wrapping my hands around a warm pumpkin-spiced latte.”

DR.ROBERT NAM,MD

UROLOGIC ONCOLOGIST

“I would golf until it snows! When I’m not golfing, I love to go biking with my wife to see the fall colours.”

ANTHONY SIRIANNI PHOTOGRAPHY BY VLADIMIR KEVORKOV. TAMARA BARHY PHOTOGRAPHY BY DREW TAYLOR. JENNA BITOVE-NAUMOVICH PHOTOGRAPHY BY NATASHA GERSCHON. DR.ROBERT NAM PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF DR.ROBERT NAM

Season Ahead A Busy

I hope my letter finds everyone well. It is now autumn, and the leaves are finally changing colour. School has begun and the Toronto International Film Festival has just wrapped up. I attended several TIFF events that I very much enjoyed. One of my favourite events was the “next 10 stars luncheon” at The Four Seasons. I heard the inspiring stories of women in film and their stories touched my heart. I had the opportunity to speak to a few of them and I very much enjoyed their tenacity and spirit. There is so much talent here and these women are truly incredible and inspirational. You will read more on this event in our upcoming issue. Thank you to Halo and Co. and The Four Seasons for hosting us.

I also had the privilege of shooting the front cover with the fabulous Melissa Grelo at the spectacular Casa Loma. Melissa is a beautiful and strong female role model, and I enjoyed getting to know her more while working with our fabulous team. A big thank-you to everyone involved in making this shoot and story possible. There were so many amazing people, including Natasha Gerschon, our photographer, and her team; Jenna Bitove-Naumovich for doing an amazing job styling our cover model; our wonderful creative director, Jennifer Douglas; our editor-in-chief, Lisa van de Geyn; writer extraordinaire Jeanne Beker; my chief operating officer, Anthony Sirianni; and Nadia Di Donato, for her support making this shoot possible. I must also thank the hair and makeup stylist on set, Sandra Yang, as well as our videographer, Frazier de Mesa, and all the creative minds who worked with us. I’ll never forget this shoot.

I also want to mention something very dear and important to my heart. We have been working tirelessly on something incredible with our event planners, organizers and dedicated committee members. This year, we are collaborating with the SickKids Foundation and we’re hosting an exclusive charity dinner curated by celebrity chef Mark McEwan. After dinner, we’ll be hosting a fashion show with iconic Canadian designers in the Distillery District’s fermenting cellar. We are opening general ticket sales very soon and only have limited tickets available. Please check our Instagram @livingluxemagazine for more information on this event. You won’t want to miss this one!

Part of the event will include a silent auction, which will open this month, and this will end on November 24. There are incredible items to bid on right before the holidays. SickKids is dear to my heart, and we are hoping to make a difference with the community’s support.

If all that wasn’t enough, we have our very own Living Luxe design exhibition at the Distillery District from November 18 to 20. You’ll find fabulous vendors and designers, and we can’t wait to see everyone there. There will also be celebrity designers speaking at our show, so check our social media for upcoming schedules. I look forward to sharing more news with everyone in our upcoming Winter issue.

Have a wonderful autumn everyone. Until the next time.

Jennifer Lipkowitz Publisher

Autumn artwork painted by Jennifer’s child.

e Season of Gratitude

I’m writing this in the final moments of the summer. It’s scorching outside today, but the nights are finally getting cooler, and the days are getting shorter. And, while I’m not a pumpkin-spiced latte kind of gal, I do love autumn. I find I do better when I’m in a routine (and let’s be honest, routine goes out the window once summer hits and doesn’t fall back into place until September). I love the colours the season brings, wearing comfy rompers (I own a half-dozen one-piece outfits from Canadian brand Smash + Tess that I rotate throughout the week) and buying hearty ingredients at my favourite farmers’ market. I’m also partial to this time of year as both of my daughters celebrate birthdays in September. Plus, I love Thanksgiving. Who doesn’t want a plate full of Mom’s turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, gravy and cranberry sauce? My mouth is watering just writing about it.

Speaking of Thanksgiving, I’m in the mood for gratitude. I want to give a special shoutout to my wonderful partner in crime here at Living Luxe, creative genius Jennifer Douglas. The designers and business owners we work with all know Jenn as the talented and efficient creative director who designs the beautiful pages of our magazine. But I know her as my right hand. Jenn and I spend countless hours every issue poring over layouts and gabbing about how to make the pages in our magazine sing. She’s kind, calm under pressure and always willing to lend a hand. She has an impeccable sense of style (both on the page and in her wardrobe — what a shoe collection) and an impressive knack for knowing when I need a laugh (usually around 11 p.m. the night before we go to press). She’s the kind of colleague and friend who you hope you get to work with and I’m thankful we can collaborate on this magazine together six times a year. Thank you, Jenn, for being such a joy.

I’m also grateful for the handful of passionate, dedicated, talented designers I got to interview for this issue. I always get a kick out of interviewing designers, as they’re creative minds who make my job as a writer so easy — it’s so thrilling to write about their magnificent work and the spectacular homes they create. Our house profiles are my favourite part of the magazine, and you can read this issue’s stories starting on page 122.

Wishing you a wonderful season full of gratitude and happiness. Enjoy the fall and I’ll see you in winter.

Lisa van de Geyn Editor-in-Chief

LISA AND JENNIFER

LIVINGLUXE.CA

While our glossy Living Luxe print issues grace Carrera coffee tables, piano-lacquered bedside tables and teak spa loungers every two months, readers can now sign up to receive our monthly newsletter, full of a selection of stories from our current issue, issues past, as well as web-exclusive content you’ll only get on livingluxe.ca.

If you’re behind on your Living Luxe reading, don’t fret; our past issues are online now. Not only will you find gorgeous homes by some of our favourite designers, you’ll get to meet many of Toronto’s most inspirational creators — designers, architects, builders and artists at the top of their fields and the mark they’re making in our city.

LUXE LIFE PHILANTHROPY — JEWELLERY — TRENDS

This walk-in closet was created in the corner of a loft space where no closet previously existed. The modern graphitecoloured Orto-System of shelving, branded by Komandor Closets & Doors, is enclosed by Komandor’s Lumi partitions and sliding doors. The seamless threshold with no track on the floor creates a perfect transition. When lights are dimmed or turned off in the closet, the fluted glass helps to hide the interior space of the closet while giving a waterfall effect.

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WHAT’S NEW

By Silvana Longo

Nature Meets Luxury

With the summer holidays behind us and regular routines assumed, you might be ready for some relaxation. The healing powers of nature set you on the right track with an exquisite glamping getaway this fall. A place where you can reset and recharge, far from the non-stop connectivity and city noise, immersed in nature while you enjoy a completely upscale experience in the wilderness. Founded by Constantin von Flotow, Outpost Co Luxury Glamping offers guests a secluded oasis in the heart of Temagami’s famed ancient white pine forests on Lake Obabika, accessible only by float plane or boat.

The camp comes complete with a private chef, handcrafted canvas safari tents and artisanal wood canvas canoes for your exclusive use. “The scenery is spectacular, and the wildlife is abundant,” assures von Flotow. And the fare is both delectable and easy, thanks to the Outpost Co collaboration with Ascari Hospitality Group who use only fresh locally sourced ingredients and offer meal packages delivered directly to your campground in a chilled cooler. outpostco.com

Required Reading

Return of the Salad Sisters

From the sisters behind the bestselling cookbook Mandy’s Gourmet Salads — and the Montreal and Toronto salad bars of the same name — comes More Mandy’s. Hot off the heels of the launch of their first Toronto restaurant, More Mandy’s is highly anticipated by home cooks and healthy eaters.

This sensational cookbook is packed with salads, smoothies, sweets, breakfast picks and soups. Indulge in and be inspired by these heartwarming recipes for cold-weather meals, plus plenty of year-round favourites. Even in wintertime, there’s nothing a Mandy’s salad can’t fix.

If you love a true-life success story, one full of twists and turns with all the odds stacked against them, add this inspirational rags-toriches autobiography to your fall reading list. From an early childhood spent in a zincroofed shack on a plantation in Jamaica to the boardrooms on Bay Street in Toronto, the entrepreneur, philanthropist and business leader, Wes Hall, shares his compelling tales in this latest autobiography No Bootstraps When You’re Barefoot. Find out how he worked his way up from a humble position in a law firm mailroom by way of his intelligence, curiosity and an ability to see opportunities where others didn’t. Hall combatted every prejudice that comes with a thick Jamaican accent, a lack of money or education. Unfazed by the obstacles, his lack of privilege didn’t stand in the way of his unprecedented success. Aware of racism and injustice, this journey led him to start the BlackNorth Initiative, which aims to end systemic racism. Besides being the latest and first Black member on the hit series Dragons’ Den, he is an instructor at the Rotman School of Management at the University of Toronto, teaching Black Entrepreneurship and Leadership, a first-of-its-kind course in North America. The book is on shelves now.

entitled: and an ability to see opportunities where others didn’t. the obstacles, his lack of privilege didn’t stand in the way of

ON SCREEN

Co-host of Global News’ The Morning Show, journalist Carolyn MacKenzie told us about living luxuriously and how she lives her best life.

Living Luxe: What does living luxuriously mean to you?

Carolyn Mackenzie: It means taking the time to treat yourself and indulge in items that you feel you deserve and will appreciate.

LL: How do luxury and extravagance factor into your work?

CM: There is definitely some luxury in having your friend apply your makeup and choose what you will wear each and every day! I’ve worked with makeup artist and stylist Natasha Apostolidis for years and she takes care of me every morning. It’s definitely a luxury to be in such good hands each day!

PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY BY GEORGE PIMENTEL. HOUSE PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF CAROLYN MACKENZIE.

LL: What plays a role in allowing you to live your best life?

CM: As much as I love my job, it’s taking the time to rest and relax and go on the next adventure with my family that allows me to live my best life. I find moments and experiences are a far better investment than anything tangible.

LL: What objects do you surround yourself with to inspire and support your everyday growth and why?

CM: If we weren’t talking objects, I’d say my family and friends, but if we are talking about inanimate objects, I’ve filled our home with pieces of art and heirlooms that mean the world to me. I’ve put so much time in to turning our house into a home. Being surrounded by my great-grandmother’s paintings or my grandmother’s silver candlesticks reminds me of their influence on me and how much our history shapes who we are.

LL: How important is it to you to refresh and revitalize either your work or yourself?

CM: Revitalization is key in preservation. Taking the time to check in with yourself is so important. I do it fairly often and it doesn’t take much; it’s just a mental checklist.

LL: What would you tell others about living their most luxurious life and how they can strive to be their personal best?

CM: To indulge on occasion when time and money permits. And in achieving your personal best, I see that as continual. I believe we are always striving to better ourselves and be better. I’m not sure we ever actually achieve personal best unless you are talking about athletics. As individuals, I feel it’s the journey and the process to be your best that is truly what it’s all about.

Jenna Bitove-Naumovich Contributing Fashion Editor

FALLING FOR AUTUMN

These hot fall fashion finds are your must-haves this season from The Room at The Bay.

By Jenna Bitove-Naumovich Portrait by Natasha Gerschon Makeup by Jessica Savedra

The Room at The Bay is an institution. The fashion team search near and far for the latest, most coveted designer brands and have curated a phenomenal womenswear and menswear collection. In this issue we’re highlighting what’s current and exciting in stores this fall. From sweet pastel hues you usually don’t equate with autumn and pretty slingback heels, to oversized coats and knit twin sets, we’re in love with this season’s fare.

Jenna Bitove-Naumovich : Balmain pink velvet dress with embellishment and pearls. Balmain Suede lace up boots.

LEFT: Balmain pastel blue tweed corset and mini pleated skirt: Corsets are a must for fall. They are being seen on almost every runway. Corsets layered with a t-shirt underneath or blouse is an adorable way to play up the look of a corset and make it more daytime ready. The pleated mini skirt has made a major return. It’s a must have item for fall.

RIGHT: Blumarine red knit dress: The removable flower on this outfit makes it easy to dress up. This perfect little pop-on flower can transition you from fall to the holidays.

Blumarine cream knit rosette bust top and matching mini skirt: Seemingly inspired by Jean Paul Gauthier and the “it” moment vibe of designer Schiaparelli. This look is on trend for fall if you’re looking to turn heads.

RIGHT: Amina Muaddi Dalida platform shoe: Muaddi‘s designs are known for gracing the feet of many celebrities. White footwear for fall is a huge trend. Not wearing white in fall is now cliche’. This super comfortable platform can be worn with pantyhose or ruffled ankle socks to play into the fall weather.

Alessandra Rich zebra print velvety pants: Statement pants in animal prints are a must for fall. These high-waisted sexy fitted pants have a slight flare on bottom. Pair back with a simple neutral knit top or faux-fur jacket to make these pants pop.

LEFT: Jacquemus small Chiquito leather crossbody bag: In pastel blue, the tiny bag trend is still going very strong. We love the juxtaposition of wearing something black in fall paired with a soft pastel accessory.

In vibrant citrus orange, the Cecil top is beautifully designed in lightweight cotton. With smocking, a cut-out and a tie to adjust coverage, it has gorgeous detailing.

LEFT: Alessandra Rich yellow with cherry motif: Yellow is the colour of the season and what better way to wear it than with this playful knit.

Alessandra is known for her charming designs with knitwear. They are a staple to any fun fashion lovers and keep you cozy all season long.

Blumarine pink knit twin set and matching miniskirt: If you want to be fashionable and comfortable, this sweet set is for you.

BELOW: Alessandra Rich plaid red and white cropped jacket with satin collar and matching mini skirt:

RIGHT: Amina Muaddi’s blue-and-crystal daisy mini bucket bag with crossbody chain: The floral crystal appliqués make this little bag the perfect evening accessory to any outfit.

BELOW: Amina Muaddi yellow satin Rosie sling: This shoe is so delicate on the foot and the crystal bow is a charming primary design for Muaddi’s footwear. This shoe is the perfect balance of sexy and cute.

BELOW: Alessandra Rich plaid red mini skirt. This set has a little sparkle with lurex woven through the tweed. This is the perfect suit to wear to work, out for drinks and even transitions perfectly for holiday parties and has gorgeous detailing.

Alessandra Rich pink plaid heart and lace dress: Plaid is always a fall fashion staple. We love the playfulness of this mini-dress.

LEFT: The infamous Max Mara oversized teddy coat. Is every fall season The Coat to have. Available now specifically for this fall season in their new burgundy color.

BELOW:

LEFT:

Paris Texas Holly crystal embellished silver boots: All crystal everything is the way to go for fall. There cannot be enough silver sparkle in one’s wardrobe this season. Nothing says party like these boots!

LEFT: Blumarine’s most coveted faux-fur bag. The crystal B is a broach and can be removed. Available in pink, white and beige. Finishes off any look with the most charming appeal.

Alexandre Vauthier silver sequin embellished jersey stretch evening gown. Vauthier often known for his form fitting cocktail dresses and gowns, but the beauty of them is that they all usually have stretch making them very comfortable. Anything silver is a wardrobe essential for this season.

BELOW: Amina Muaddi’s Begum sling with martini heal in green satin: This gorgeous shoe is perfect for cocktail parties or even just paired with jeans.

Jenna Bitove-Naumovich: Alessandra Rich pink satin roses dress. Paris Texas black patent boots.

PRIZED POSSESSIONS

Fabergé’s divine jewellery is just as brilliantly whimsical as its iconic eggs. Here’s what you need to know about this exceptional brand’s storied history and its impressive longevity.

By Lisa van de Geyn

Fabergé is one of the most iconic brands in the world, there’s simply no denying it. And while it is often synonymous with precious, awe-inspiring, bespoke objects — the treasured Fabergé enamelled Easter eggs — there’s so much more to this thriving company. It’s a global institution.

It was 140 years ago when brothers Peter and Agathon Fabergé took over their father’s jewellery business. The senior Fabergé, Gustav, trained in Russia as a goldsmith and ran a modest jewellery shop. When Peter and Agathon came into the picture, the

IMAGES COURTESY OF

SIMPLY NO DENYING IT.

THIS IMAGE:

Fabergé Emotion 18k Yellow Gold Multicoloured Gemstone Bracelet with 50 pavé-set multicoloured sapphires, round rubies, brilliant cut round white diamonds, round tsavorites & emeralds.

LEFT IMAGE:

Fabergé

younger generation brought in their modern aesthetic and their penchant for coloured stones and enamelled pieces. Peter Carl had spent years studying the techniques of goldsmithing and learned how to restore and repair works of art from the 18th century, including French gold and enamel snuff boxes. (Fabergé was also a pioneer in the fine art of enamelling.)

their art from the 18th century, including French gold and enamel snuff boxes. a Maria Feodorovna. This was a turning point for the Maison, as it was

It was no surprise, then, that Peter Carl was named to lead the company in 1882. Within a few years, Emperor Alexander III commissioned Fabergé to make an Easter egg for Empress Maria Feodorovna. This was a turning point for the Maison, as it was given the sought-after title of “goldsmith by special appointment to the Imperial Crown.” These Imperial Easter Eggs were “objets de fantaisie” that soon became highly coveted works of art to collectors across the globe. (These are so prized and beloved today that they’re found in many leading museums and private collections, including the Royal Collection Trust.)

By the early 1900s, the House of Fabergé expanded, opening branches in London and Kyiv. When Peter Carl died, his sons settled in Paris and started Fabergé & Cie, which dealt in restored objects and jewellery. Over the next century, the company went through a plethora of changes, including losing its name (to an American perfumer), then acquiring it back, as well as a complete relaunch in 2009 and the introduction of the “Les Fabuleuses” high-jewellery collection.

In its time in existence — 180 years from Gustav’s early days —

Fabergé remains one of the most desirable brands the world over. Not only does the company still create exceptional Egg Objets, but also a spectacular collection of precious rings, earrings, bracelets, necklaces, cufflinks, brooches and watches. In 2013, Gemfields, a world-leading supplier of responsibly sourced coloured gemstones (with an emphasis on rubies and emeralds), acquired the company. Following the

acquisition, Fabergé then introduced its Colours of Love collection, which celebrates colourful gemstones, craftsmanship and the originality that Peter Carl would’ve adored. The egg pendants and lockets in the collection capture the essence of Fabergé in a more contemporary way. They’re handcrafted from 18k gold and are set with brilliant gems (including diamonds, rubies, sapphires and emeralds) as well as using guilloché enamelling. The company boasts a wide array of everyday jewellery essentials — most pieces give a nod to the famous egg — but it also designs and creates incomparable engagement and wedding rings to celebrate exciting life milestones. From brilliant pink and purple sapphires and deep red rubies to sparkling diamonds, Fabergé ensures clients can find a piece that speaks to their sensibility, personality and enduring love.

To learn more about Fabergé, or to see what the company has to offer, visit faberge.com.

For Canadian inquiries, discover Knar Jewellery at knar.com.

BELOW IMAGE:

Fabergé

Fabergé

“ FABERGÉ IS ONE OF THE MOST ICONIC BRANDS IN THE WORLD, THERE’S

”

THE ART OF RHINOPLASTY

Philip Solomon MD, FRCSC, Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgeon, practicing Facial Plastic Surgery

Solomon performs,

By Dr. Philip Solomon & Nancie Heiber

Living Luxe: Who is a good candidate for rhinoplasty, how popular is it in your practice and what are the main goals of this procedure?

Dr. Philip Solomon: Rhinoplasty is probably the most popular and well-known surgery that I perform, as it appeals to all ages, genders and ethnicities. The nose is central on the face and can be seen as the most prominent feature. Therefore, when the nose displays a dorsal hump, drooping tip, wide nasal base or flat nasal bridge, it can lead patients to seek out nasal reshaping. The goal of cosmetic surgery is to have the nose blend in with other features, enhancing the patients’ overall harmony, balance and beauty. We want to see the other characteristics of beauty become the focus, such the eyes, lips, cheekbones and hair.

LL: Is there more than one type of rhinoplasty? What are they and how do you determine which procedure will work best for each patient?

Dr. Philip Solomon: We use different techniques and individualize a treatment plan for each patient. Certain ethnicities can share similar characteristics. People from Eastern Europe and East Africa often require a reductive rhinoplasty, where we are reducing the size of the nose, eliminating a bump and lifting the nasal tip. People of Asian or African American backgrounds are often looking for augmentation and narrowing of the nose. When devising a treatment plan, we take in the entire face, the projection of the chin, the shape of the mandible, etc., and mere millimetres can affect the outcome of a rhinoplasty. Patients will share their goals for surgery, indicating whether they

Dr. Philip Solomon MD, FRCSC

A nose is the most prominent facial feature that many wish to change for a variety of reasons. Dr.

in Toronto, understands that desire and how to create a nose shape that enhances the face, rather than overpowers it. Rhinoplasty is one of the most popular surgeries Dr.

having performed thousands in the last 20 years. Here’s what you need to know about this very popular cosmetic procedure.

want a straight nasal bridge or sloped nasal bridge, for example. We can show them, using our computer-imaging software, how just a few millimetres can affect facial balance. In some cases, what patients may envision may not suit their face. Our patients trust us. They have seen our catalogue of work and know that they are getting a nose shape that is natural, as if they had been born with it.

LL: Tell us what considerations you require prior to proceeding with rhinoplasty surgery for your patients?

Dr. Philip Solomon: Patient selection, the medical component and cosmetic outcome are all very important. Just as patients research surgeons, we assess our patients to ensure they are good candidates for rhinoplasty. We look at their medical status, whether they have previously injured their nose, if they have breathing issues or a compromised septum from drug use — these factors can contribute to the end result. The patient selection and cosmetic component address the patients desired goal — are they realistic and achievable? Can they manage with the recovery process and healing time required for rhinoplasty? We are always very transparent with our patients to ensure they are set up for success. If we think their goals aren’t realistic based on their anatomy, or they are not in the right head space to undergo surgery, we advise them to take some more time to consider their options.

LL: What are some common concerns that follow rhinoplasty surgery and how long does it take to heal?

Dr. Philip Solomon: Rhinoplasty is a process, and the results will change over many months. For this reason, patients are often anxious in the early post-op period when there may be considerable swelling. Most patients look quite good by four to six weeks. Then, there is a category of patients who may have had more difficult anatomy prior to surgery or have thick skin, that may affect their healing. In some cases, cortisone injections or tape may be used to help reduce swelling. We do our best to help prepare our patients prior to their surgery, as to what they can anticipate afterwards. When it comes to rhinoplasty, we provide the surgical technique, however the patients genetics, lifestyle and anatomy will all play a role in their recovery and outcome.

LL: In your expert opinion, do you think there is still a stigma toward rhinoplasty? Why or why not?

Dr. Philip Solomon: While rhinoplasty has always been a popular cosmetic surgical procedure, there was a period where there may have been more of stigma toward it. The stigma perhaps, was related to an over-operated appearance often seen amongst some celebrities. Over the last few decades, there has been a movement toward natural

and more timeless results. As a society, we have become far more open to the idea of cosmetic surgery, I believe. We also live in a part of the world where living a healthy lifestyle and looking good is encouraged. People want to look and feel their best at all ages and we have access to more resources and information than ever before, cosmetic surgery included.

IMAGE BY ADOBE STOCK. PHOTOGRAPHY OF DR. SOLOMON BY GEORGE PIMENTEL

Dr. Philip Solomon MD, FRCSC

“THE GOAL OF COSMETIC SURGERY IS TO HAVE THE NOSE BLEND IN WITH OTHER FEATURES, ENHANCING THE PATIENTS’ OVERALL HARMONY, BALANCE AND BEAUTY.”

THIS HOUSE IS HOME

Camrost Felcorp Inc.’s latest project, Raglan House, is the perfect mix of modern and traditional design in an established area of the city.

By Rachel Naud

Buyers looking to tap into a one-of-a-kind opportunity to live in a building that’s equal parts contemporary and traditional need to look no further than Raglan House.

Nestled in the Bathurst Street and St. Clair Avenue node, a stone’s throw from established neighbourhoods like Forest Hill, Cedarvale, Humewood and Wychwood Park, Raglan House will be at the heart of a massive residential intensification.

While there are already some high-rise buildings in the area, Camrost Felcorp, the developers behind Raglan House (as well as many other distinctive and memorable residential communities in the Greater Toronto Area), has plans to build an additional two buildings in the area.

The location is perfect for any commuter, especially those working in the heart of downtown Toronto. The building is located right around the corner from St. Clair subway station and has easy streetcar and bus access. It’s a mere 10-minute commute to the University of Toronto and just 15 short minutes to Toronto’s Financial District. Plus, to make it even easier to get around, Camrost Felcorp, at the behest of the City of Toronto, has purchased a property on Bathurst Street that will be replaced with green space so residents can use it to cut across for easier access to transit instead of having to walk around the corner. “We call it the importance of the first mile and last mile,” says Christopher Castellano,

vice-president of sales and marketing at Camrost Felcorp. “We look at not only an individual’s time on public transit, but how quickly it is for residents to get there in the morning and get home at the end of the day. By putting in this park, it benefits the buyers of Raglan House, as well as all residents and all projects in the area.”

Putting residents’ needs first is the Camrost way, down to how its projects engage with pedestrians on street level. Raglan House is pulled back from the sidewalk, with curb appeal for those wanting a home that looks like it has been a fixture in the area for decades. The building, which is fronted with pavers, landscaping and trees, is made with rich and timeless materials such as limestone, brick and granite to give it the appearance that the project has been solidified in the neighbourhood. It’s not until the ninth of the 28 storeys that you see the glass and steel synonymous with new builds. “You get the best of both worlds with this building,” says Castellano.

Buyers will also be treated to a mix of old and new when they walk through the front doors. While the lobby lounge will be fitted with a modern work-from-home space, including private work pods, the main floor will also boast a mix of brass and wood inside the traditional billiards room and library. Off the ground floor will be a beautiful, traditional English garden.

“The way we designed this building is to create a timeless British patina with a bit of grit to appeal to the generation,” says Castellano. “It’s not ultra-modern. We took cues from the surrounding Casa Loma,

This isn’t to say the building doesn’t have modern amenities. Of course, residents will have access to a state-of-the-art fitness facility, complete with cardio equipment, yoga room, massage room and sauna. Dog lovers will appreciate the on-site dog run, and entertainers will enjoy taking advantage of the social gathering spaces, complete with private kitchens, dining rooms and barbecues. Inside, each of the 300-plus units offers high-level finishings, including imported kitchens and cabinets from Italian maker Trevisana, plumbing fixtures from Kohler and appliances from Miele. Working with Toronto designers Maed Collective, residents will also have the option of upgrading their packages to add highly sought-after features like wine fridges in the kitchen island and changing up colours on the floor, backsplash and tile.

No matter what features they choose, every buyer will love calling Raglan House home. “When you look at the incredible mom-and-pop shops in this area of St. Clair West, along with the easy access to rapid transit and the future plans for this node, you’re really buying into an area that is what Queen Street West was a decade ago,” says Castellano. “Raglan House offers a great opportunity to get into the sought-after neighbourhoods of established area such as Forest Hill, Cedarvale, Humewood and Wychwood Park, without having to spend $5 million on a home.”

Claxton Gates, and Forest Hill areas when designing the exterior to make it feel like it has been around for decades, and this vibe carries through the entire building.”

Joan Kelley Walker Philanthropy Editor

HEALING AND HOPE

By Joan Kelley Walker

Abuse is defined as any action which intrudes painfully or harmfully into the physical, psychological or social well-being of another person. – Abuse Hurts

I was introduced to the important work of Abuse Hurts in 2019. Since then, domestic abuse has increased by an alarming rate of up to 30 percent. Isolation caused by the pandemic created vulnerable situations for victims because they were confined to their homes, which elevated stress levels and also created more time for conflicts to occur. With children at home and not in school, teachers or classmates were unable to detect signs of escalating child abuse.

Abuse Hurts, founded almost 30 years ago, is a national leader in the development of programs to prevent abuse, in advocating for the rights of those who have been abused and in the creation of survivor-friendly ways of helping abuse victims find healing. I recently reconnected with the founder and CEO of Abuse Hurts, Ellen Campbell, who’s also an Order of Ontario recipient, knowing that her dedicated work is needed desperately with domestic abuse on the rise. Ellen shared her story with me, revealing how her own healing journey has inspired her to ultimately help others. As a survivor of childhood sexual abuse, Ellen explains how she ended up in a “psych ward” because of the trauma and abuse she endured, her will to get through that dark period was motivated by one decision. “If I could help one person who went through what I did, I would try,” she says.

“Abuse Hurts is a charity that serves individuals who have suffered abuse. Its work is multifaceted.

Most of the people we serve are women and children who are inevitably starting over escaping situations that threaten their safety. We also have programs to support Indigenous peoples and we support two men’s groups. The victims of abuse need product donations such as clothing, toiletries, housewares, linens and furniture.” The charity also facilitates “pamper days,” where women get their hair, nails and makeup done. They are served lunch and this self-esteem-boosting day gives them a chance to feel good about themselves and dream for a better future despite their current circumstances. “One of my favourite of many great stories is about a makeover day we held for a group of women from a shelter. They came into our offices with their heads down, some in tears, avoiding eye contact. Throughout the course of the day, our staff could hear increasing laughter and sounds of enjoyment in the program room. By the end of the day, they left visibly transformed in appearance and demeanor. They were all dressed up, each carrying a bag of goodies, and they looked each one of us in the eye and thanked us,” says Ellen.

There are some feel good stories and then there are some on the other side of the spectrum. One program initiated by Abuse Hurts is called “Huggum’s Hope Memorial.” The organization identified a program like this was needed about 15 years ago. Babies were being discarded and abandoned in garbage cans. Abuse Hurts acknowledges that this is the earliest stage of abuse and these lives deserve recognition, so each baby is named, their name is placed on a monument and a

service is held, complete with doves being released in their honour. Elgin Mills Cemetery in Richmond Hill, Ont., provided a beautiful garden with nine plots and each plot holds five babies. So far 13 babies have been memorialized. “We have been advocating for 15 years to have a policy in place where women can take an unharmed baby into any hospital and surrender the baby anonymously. We continue to advocate for this policy to be put in place,” Ellen explains.

Statistics show that abuse is on the rise and funding is desperately needed. Abuse Hurts operates solely on private donations with no sustaining funds from the government. Currently, the organization has two charity boutiques where they sell donated clothes and furniture, and they support thousands of people through their volunteer work keeping administrative costs under 10 percent. Due to the restrictions of COVID, in-person fundraising was limited, which creates more challenges, especially during a time when their programs and services are in demand.

You can learn more about Abuse Hurts and how to make a donation, volunteer or get involved by visiting abusehurts.ca. I am inspired by Ellen and the work she is committed to. It feels heavy knowing that abuse is so prevalent, and it is easy to feel helpless. However, there are earthbound angels like Ellen working tirelessly to improve the lives of others. We all can make a difference in the lives of others. I will leave you with this powerful statement found on their website: “Scared is what you’re feeling. Brave is what you’re doing.”

Domestic and child abuse is on the rise, and the problems have been amplified since the pandemic. Here’s what Abuse Hurts is doing to help.

JOAN KELLEY WALKER AND ELLEN CAMPBELL

A LABOUR OF LOVE

For Helder Aguiar of Element Modern Dwellings, creating luxury modern homes is a collaborative process fueled by passion, meticulous attention to detail and years of expertise in the field.

By Adriana Ermter & Lisa van de Geyn

If you’ve ever spoken to Helder Aguiar, owner, principal developer and designer of Element Modern Dwellings, you know he has incredible, unmatched dynamism. Chockful of infectious energy, Helder has great fervour and a very affable personality that make him stand out in any setting. The thing is, it’s not just his remarkable nature and charm that draws you in — it’s his intense skill and zeal for all things modern design.

Helder has been in the architectural, interior design and project management business for 17 years, so he’s an absolute expert in his field who undeniably lights up when he speaks about his clients and team. This is a visionary whose coveted firm — comprised of exceptionally talented professionals — has made a mark in the Greater Toronto Area as a leader when it comes to design and construction management.

One of the wonderful things about working with Element is that Helder doesn’t take a back seat when it comes to his clients.

“I knew early on that I wanted and needed to be involved in the entire process,” Helder says. It’s this hands-on process that not only creates a synergistic relationship between the client and Element but also instills a sense of comfort in knowing that even the finest details of the vision come to life under one roof.

“We create timeless dream homes from the ground up, which means we take the lead when it comes to the architecture,

CREATE TIMELESS DREAM HOMES

TAKE THE LEAD WHEN IT COMES TO THE ARCHITECTURE, INTERIOR DESIGN, EXTERIOR LANDSCAPE AND EVERY OTHER PART OF THE PROJECT.”

interior design, exterior landscape and every other part of the project. That’s why we cultivate such strong relationships with our clients — we pride ourselves on being able to unlock their untamed creativity and imagination, and then translate it into one cohesive language.”

The firm is a force, handling every aspect of a project with a team of enthusiastic architectural designers, interior designers and project managers who work with Helder to ensure each design and build is perfectly executed. “We delve into what makes our clients tick, what they love from function to art — we are truly their guides,” he says proudly.

Helder’s process is collaborative from the start, and it is as organic as it is precise. After thoughtful conversations with the client, Element creates a thorough profile of their client’s lifestyle, aesthetic, functional needs, non-negotiables and budget. This serves as a launching pad for Helder and his team to work their magic and simply shine. Helder acts as a curator and guide, building a strong rapport with clients and welcoming them into the Element family as they welcome Element into theirs. From there, a detailed vision board is created, and floor plans are born.

“It’s all about the nuances. We start with a concept, and work together with the client to get crystal clear on our creative direction,” he

“ WE

FROM THE GROUND UP, WHICH MEANS WE

explains. At this point, the interior and architectural designers begin to breathe life into the concept — covering every detail from space planning, to the colour palette, textures and features of the home. Once that’s crystallized and both the interior and architectural designers have solidified all materials and products, the assigned project manager steps in to alchemize the plans and drawings into reality. There’s an unparalleled synergy that Helder has lovingly nurtured and refined over the years. “We’re sought after for this. We’re niche and boutique, and with our proven building experience and leadership, we represent the best modern design & build experience in the business.”

“

They have established an incredibly effective and successful business creating timeless, bespoke modern homes for their clients. If you ask Helder, he’ll tell you his firm is a labour of love that has transformed his career. “We are all inspired by our work, and we excel when working with exceptional clients. It’s an absolute pleasure.”

E X T R A O R D I N A R Y E X P E R I E N C E S

A PROVEN TRACK RECORD

Cheney Window and Door is all about offering clients elegant style while guaranteeing quality. Here’s what Tom Cheney told us about the company’s history and process.

By Tara MacIntosh

Founded in 1987 by Tom Cheney, Cheney Window and Door specialists is one of the preferred destinations for the highest-quality windows and doors in the west end of the Greater Toronto Area.

Cheney built the company catering to discerning clients seeking quality products known for longevity and durability. He believes in finding the perfect windows and doors, as he has personally seen the enhancement these add to a home. “When you invest in a quality product, it pays off — they should last for 30 to 40 years,” he says.

Cheney Window and Door ensures each part of its business works together to make the purchase and installation process seamless. The initial consultation is designed to review the client’s wish list and deliver solutions for the proposed project. Additional meetings will

take place to provide architectural drawings and fine-tune the details. “We have three architectural specialists with decades of experience to guide our clients through what could be a confusing, difficult and sometimes overwhelming process. The company’s specialists ease clients by reviewing the brands, the attributes and the choices within the brand, tailoring the product to the client’s preference and needs,” Cheney affirms.

Honesty and integrity are at the heart of everything the experts at the company do. Ensuring the customer is confident at each stage of the process is always top of mind. “From the start, we focused on specializing in windows and doors for the replacement and customhomes market. We provide a hassle-free experience using our reliable in-house crews who have exceptional skills installing large-scale window and door projects. It is important to us that our clients are completely comfortable from beginning to end.” With an impeccable reputation for attention to detail and unmatched service, the business has grown to include homeowners in Mississauga, Burlington, Oakville, Hamilton and Waterdown, Ancaster and Milton.

As a community-focused business, Cheney Window and Door works with local builders, contractors, designers and architects. Its supply partners — Lepage Millwork, Ostaco Windows & Doors,

MasterGrain Doors and Andersen Windows & Doors — carry a wide variety of options with exceptional warranties. Clients are encouraged to visit the 3,000-square-foot showroom in Oakville to explore the various options and discuss their needs and preferences. The Cheney team is deeply committed to long-standing and trusted relationships with their clients and business partners. The highest level of customer service is part of the experience, from design to installation.

After three decades in the business, a happy customer is still the ultimate reward, according to Cheney. “Customer service has always been the key to our business, and we take great pride in catering to our clients’ needs with the goal of exceeding expectations. Ensuring our clients receive the look and style that suit their home eliminates the need for any future changes and builds a solid trusting relationship,” he says proudly. Cheney and his team of professionals are always honoured when homeowners choose to partner with the company.

“

AFTER THREE DECADES IN THE BUSINESS, A HAPPY CUSTOMER IS STILL THE ULTIMATE REWARD. ”

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STEELING DESIGN

A classic steel tile choice — the Tremblant — is currently defining modern trends for roofs across the city.

By Adriana Ermter

“I’m old school,” says Martin Lesniak, the president of BTR Systems. “I don’t want to sell a piece of metal. I want to sell our customers their dreams, something special. I want them to look at their roofs and love them for the quality, the durability, the colour and, of course, for the style.”

And currently, that style is Tremblant — the most popular steel tile choice for residential roofs right now. Sleek, lightweight, long-lasting and recyclable, the cylinder grooveshaped tile panel is having a moment. A low-profile steel, the Tremblant interprets the lines and smooth upright corners of a traditional clay tile. Simple yet stunning, it blends easily with the traditional contours of modern design, making it the perfect choice for a range of architectural designs.

“It’s getting a lot of attention,” affirms Lesniak, who keeps up with consumer demand by shipping the timeless steel in from Europe and storing it in the original BTR Systems warehouse in Caledon, as well as in their new one in Mississauga. “The model is classic, it’s forever. The shape is beautiful and, like our number-two seller, the Enigma, it looks like the rooftops of billionaires’ homes in California.” (It resembles this particularly when it is installed in the favoured and chic, gunmetal grey shade.) While Tremblant is available in eight gorgeous colours, ranging from an earthy red, forest green, light grey and rusted

clay to a traditional brown, muted black and dark black, the gunmetal option is frequently the bestseller. Coveted for its timeless quality, both the tile and the grey hue complement a vast array of architectural designs, from modern and contemporary to colonial, palatial and bungalow. “Just look at the palace-like houses along Toronto’s Lakeshore area,” says Lesniak. “This is the style. The look is superior, and it works on everything except a flat roof. Our product is corrugated, you can’t walk on it, as the water must flow downwards to drain.”

Drains and gutters, along with corners and connectors, are just

some of the matching accessories available at BTR Systems that can be incorporated with all of the company’s steel roofing options, inclusive of the Tremblant. Having such offerings not only ensures that every roof is complete, but they are also streamlined in aesthetic and complement the steel tiles creating a cohesive appearance with every home. And with lifelong warranties, combined with professional and accurate installation, these accessories with the steel roofing can increase a home’s value by 20 percent more than its asphalt roof options. Additionally, the steel tiles are eco-friendly, reduce carbon dioxide emissions into the environment, are wind-resistant up to 200 miles per hour and can withstand fire, hail, storms and even hurricanes, all while looking tasteful.

“Steel roofing in general, including our Tremblant tiles, stands the test of time in beauty and in its construction,” adds Lesniak. “It’s more expensive than asphalt but it is worth it. While I wish I could always predict exactly which styles will be most on trend, I can definitively say that the Tremblant style pairs perfectly with brick walls, a stone façade, fibre cement, metal siding, garden landscaping, you name it. It’s elegant and so versatile.”

“THE

Courtney Gedeon Psychotherapist

IN GOOD MENTAL HEALTH

Put simply, mental health matters. If depression, anxiety or addiction is causing you distress, don’t su er in silence. We asked Psychotherapist Courtney Gedeon to remind us of the importance of speaking up. Here’s what she told us.

By Courtney Gedeon

Although we have become more aware of mental health and its importance, there is still a stigma surrounding it—and that’s unfortunate. When one struggles with mental health issues, they often report feeling shame and embarrassment. Depression, anxiety and addiction do not discriminate. All demographics and socioeconomic communities have their own unique challenges. Accumulating wealth in adulthood does not erase the challenges or trauma you may have experienced previously in life. Although privileged societies often have more access to services, wealth does not equal health.

Many people wonder what mental health is and why is it so important. To break it down, mental health consists of three main areas: emotional, psychological and social well-being. Our mental health affects all parts of our life. If you have positive mental health, you can work toward your full potential, be more productive, partake in healthy relationships and cope with the inevitable stress that life brings.

However, one in five Canadians suffers from mental health problems. Many suffer in silence. Why? Those suffering from mental illness often work hard to hide their condition from those around them. Those suffering often don’t speak up for fear of burdening family, fear of embarrassment and fear of being judged. People in affluent communities are no exception. The Canadian Mental Health Associ-

ation has described depression as the “silent killer.” Internal thoughts of those suffering in silence could sound like, “What if people knew? It would damage my brand, business or image.” Fear of reprisal keeps people silent.

I want to make something very clear: Good mental health is not about always being happy. It would be unnatural to live a life without stress, without a certain level of anxiety and without enduring some feelings of sadness or anger. Good mental health is an overall sense of well-being and balances delicately on how we cope and manage the normal stressors and emotions in our everyday life. What is important to remember is that there is no health without mental health. It is part of our overall well-being and should be part of everyone’s healthcare routine. I challenge you to normalize talking about mental health, to check in with yourself and others and ultimately to help end the stigma.

If you or someone you know needs help, please reach out to 1-855-310-COPE (2673).

Courtney Gedeon is a registered psychotherapist (qualifying), MCAP, and is the host of Mental Health Matters on Rogers Television, where she talks about all things mental health and well-being. Her article has been peer reviewed by Joddie Walker, MSc, RP, certified trauma and resilience specialist.

Talking about money is easy. Talking about money with family? That’s hard.

Wisdom helps.

0.4% is anyone’s chance of being born wealthy

70% of families lose their wealth in the second generation

90% lose it by the third generation

62% of people in Ontario die without a will

10% of those who die without a will did seek advice but didn’t follow through

53% say, “it’s too difficult to find an advisor I trust to create an estate plan”

71% say they would feel like a better person/ parent/spouse If they did have a plan

94% of people engage with Libby so that they can share their personal story with her

82% of people laugh and enjoy themselves when talking about their dreams with Libby

87% of Libby’s clients call to talk about parenting, their marriage or their health and travel dreams versus estate planning

86% of people are attracted to Libby for business because she is a thought leader

78% of Libby’s clients have been connected by her to someone meaningful in their lives

73% of Libby’s knowledge comes from being an entrepreneur who has been married twice and who is bringing up three children as a single mom

100% of people say “thank you!” to Libby once their plan is set in motion

Libby Wildman, Senior Partner

Living Luxe Financial Contributor lw@davisrea.com / 416-803-9255 www.davisrea.com

A STORIED HISTORY OF EXCELLENCE

By Lisa van de Geyn

Most of us know the brand: Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts. The unrivalled leader in its industry, recipient of the world’s best awards, and most recently, the innovator behind a new worldwide ad campaign, “Luxury is our love language,” which made all of our jaws drop because it’s nothing any of us have ever seen in the hospitality space. What is less known is that Four Seasons was born and bred in Toronto back in 1961. A Canadian company with locations all over the world, it’s no wonder that they named their global flagship to be Four Seasons Hotel Toronto — the one on Yorkville Avenue, the one turning 10 years old this month.

“This hotel is intimately woven into the fabric of this community,” general manager Patrick Pollak says proudly. “Torontonians have been an integral part of the growth of our brand, and they feel they own a part of it…and they absolutely do.”

Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts began in Toronto more than 60 years ago. Tycoon Isadore Sharp started in the hospitality business by accident. “He was doing a project with a friend who was an architect and the build happened to be a hotel. He saw it as an interesting business and gave it a go.” It wasn’t long before he and his employees discovered the key to making their first hotel thrive. “Back then,

the premise was to make everyone who walked through the doors feel like an important guest visiting a private home. It was a unique approach to the business,” says Pollak. Within the first 25 years of its existence, the company’s coveted four pillars were created, ensuring all employees understood Sharp’s vision and mission for his hotels. It was all about quality, spirited culture and ensuring the brand was synonymous with exceptional and highly personalized service. “Those are the hallmarks of Four Seasons and it’s what has made us become the undisputed leader in the hospitality industry. We’ve now arrived at a place where the brand has more value than our real estate. These pillars transformed what Four Seasons is all about and as its hometown property, we are proud to lead by example.”

Today, with 124 hotels, 50 residences and six standalone residential projects, the brand is thriving. Travellers flock to Four Seasons properties all over the world, and those who yearn for a life of luxury and opulence choose the company’s residences to call home. Not only are patrons loyal, but employees relish being part of an organization where people want to grow their careers. Pollak has been with Four Seasons for 26 years, starting with the company fresh out of school. He speaks about the brand with immense pride, mentioning that one

Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts is a force worldwide and for a good reason: It’s synonymous with high quality and superior service. As the Toronto location celebrates a milestone anniversary, we fête the brand and its devotion to the city.

Nœud Atelier du Parquet 12 Wingold Avenue, Toronto, 647.574.2766 | Michael London Design 68 Tycos Drive, Unit 2, Toronto,437.238.2555

of its trademarks is that employees typically stay and grow, moving up the ladder and to different locations. “One of the oldest employees we have here in Toronto works in engineering, and he’s been with us for more than 40 years. It’s a testament to the values our team stands behind.”

When visiting the Toronto hotel, guests can expect to be greeted by a warm environment — your home away from home. It’s personal and friendly, and quite striking. “It’s a modern, beautiful space with great bones and plenty of spectacular design elements. It was designed by the renowned Yabu Pushelberg and it’s still as comfortable and welcoming as it was a decade ago,” says Pollak. Not only are the 259 rooms and 42 suites a traveller’s dream, but the amenities are also top-notch. “When it comes to dining options, guests will find an exceptional menu at Café Boulud helmed by our chef de cuisine Colin Henderson, cocktails hand-crafted by our talented head of mixology Mike Birdsey at d|bar by chef Daniel Boulud and an al fresco dining option at our most recent addition, d|azur. We have a wonderful relationship with award-winning chef Daniel Boulud, whose passion for delivering a familial yet unforgettable dining experience trickles right down to our cooks, servers, hosts and bartenders. Of course, there’s wonderful 24-hour in-room dining service, too.” The Forbes-Five Star Spa at Four Seasons Toronto is certainly a favourite of both overnight guests and nearby visitors — it boasts 30,000 square feet and 16 treatment rooms, plus its own hair and nail salon, a stateof-the-art fitness centre, relaxation pool and hot tub that complements the entire facility.

Pollak, whose favourite part of the Toronto hotel is his team, says there are several events planned to mark the hotel’s 10th anniversary, which is officially on October 5. Chef Daniel Boulud will travel to Toronto and participate in a special dinner — he along with chef Colin Henderson and other special guests will celebrate in style. There will also be a reception for clients and residents to raise a glass to 10 years. “We are proud and excited to host these events. We want to thank our guests and team for a wonderful decade — they’ve created the unique personality the hotel is loved for.”

TPC is the first clinic in the Greater Toronto Area to offer exclusive care for men with a condition called Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) – one of the most common conditions in aging men and the most common cause of urinary difficulty symptoms. TPC is the leading centre in Canada for the Rezum procedure and has the largest and highest volume of the Rezum procedure in Canada. The Rezum procedure is a 5 minute, minimally-invasive procedure that uses steam to open the urinary passage within the prostate. TPC is located in midtown Toronto at a university-based hospital clinic and no referral from your family physician is necessary. Clinic appointments will be provided in a timely fashion. All consultations will be covered by your Health Card.

Toronto Prostate Clinic

Robert Nam, MD, FRCSC

Nutrition Expert

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Got a picky eater who causes mayhem at mealtimes? Take heart. Certified nutritionist Danielle Binns has a tried-and-true method to help change the way you approach food with your kids.

By Danielle Binns

Parents: How many times have you asked yourself what you should feed your kids, what you can serve for dinner that they’ll actually eat and what new veggies can you offer that won’t be a bust? Maybe you thought you needed a meal plan or a slew of new recipes to get your child’s eating on track. As the mother of a former extremely picky eater, I too was fixated on what foods to put in front of my daughter. Being a certified nutritionist, I knew exactly what she needed on her plate to thrive. The reality was that this didn’t matter. Of course, I could put a rainbow of fruits and vegetables in front of her. But if my daughter wasn’t going to eat them, I was no further ahead.

Danielle Binns

BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

196 Evans Avenue Etobicoke 416-881-7739 terrafirmadesign.ca terrafirmadesign_lisa

TERRA FIRMA DESIGN

Parents always reach out to me looking for recipes for “picky-eater approved” meals and snacks. And while I have an endless list of creative food ideas, I gently inform concerned parents that a meal plan and recipes will not forever fix their picky-eater problems.

You see, parents naturally focus on the “what” around mealtimes. But we miss the more important piece of the mealtime puzzle — the “how.” To raise adventurous eaters who are willing to try new foods without a battle, we need to consider things like how to offer foods in a compelling way; how to talk about food and nutrition with our kids; how the mealtime environment looks and feels; and how to model healthy eating at home. And the list goes on. The “how” is the key that parents truly need if they want their children to try veggie-packed muffins, a new kid-friendly smoothie or a plain old carrot without having to bribe or beg them to take a bite. The “how” of mealtimes consists of foundational strategies that every parent needs to raise healthy eaters. Whether you have a baby who’s just learning to eat, a toddler who’s showing early signs of pickiness or a school-ager who has been picky for years, you need to be armed with strategies that ensure you’re serving food in an engaging way, and creating a positive, no-pressure mealtime environment for the whole family.

I got caught in a cycle of trying one mealtime trick for a few days, then another when the first one didn’t work. There was a lot of flipping and flopping between strategies. For example, I’d tell my daughter that she couldn’t have a snack after dinner, but I’d end up giving in because I didn’t want to see her go to bed hungry. This was a

mistake. Repetition and sticking to your guns work wonders, as kids thrive on structure and routine. Once you have a research-backed mealtime strategy you’re confident with, keep it up! Especially when the going gets tough and you’re confronted with meltdowns.

We must determine how we want to approach mealtimes and not give up. When parents have a plan they feel confident in, their child and their mealtimes transform faster. You’ll notice kids will try foods on their own and tots who are happy to come (and stay) at the table. This makes the entire family much more relaxed.

Let’s get you out of the picky-eating cycle. Start by establishing “how” you want to approach mealtimes and write down your plan. Then repeat that plan at every meal. Your kids will see that this is how mealtimes should look. And with time (and patience), they will fall into your new more relaxed and adventurous mealtime cycle, too.

Not sure where to start? Follow Danielle Binns at daniellebinns.com and use her tips on Instagram @daniellebinnsnutrition and @curiouscookiekids.

“YOU NEED TO BE ARMED WITH STRATEGIES THAT ENSURE YOU’RE SERVING FOOD IN AN ENGAGING WAY, AND CREATING A POSITIVE, NO-PRESSURE MEALTIME ENVIRONMENT FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY.“

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A-GRADE TESTING

Your genetics may or may not be the luck of the draw when it comes to prostate cancer and even an enlarged prostate. But you’ll never know unless you get them checked out.

By Adriana Ermter

According to the Canadian Cancer Society, one in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime. Additionally, says Dr. Robert Nam, a urologic oncology specialist and professor of surgery at the University of Toronto, prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men and the third leading cause of death in men in Canada. Fortunately, with the right testing, prostate cancer can be detected and dealt with early.

“The thing is, men don’t want to talk about their urinary issues,” says Dr. Nam. “But once they do, it’s a gamechanger. Even if the conversation starts with something like, ‘Oh yeah that, well, I can hardly write my name in the snow.’ Talking about it is the first step

toward options and a healthy life.”

Talking also leads to proactive testing, which can result in diagnosing prostate cancer early and improve the chance of survival. And while there are many forms of prostate cancer that don’t need to be treated, for those that do, treatment can dramatically impact and affect a man’s future. Typically, these treatments include surgery and/ or radiation, both of which have their pros and cons, such as cancer removal, the pro, and nerve damage, impotency, bladder and rectum damage and urine leakage, the cons. One lesser-known treatment, however, is focal therapy. It’s Dr. Nam’s specialty. “We offer focal therapy as a treatment for early diagnosis,” affirms the doctor. “This treatment is exceptional. It doesn’t damage the nerves, as it works by zapping only the tumor.”

The minimally invasive treatment targets only the parts of the prostate gland where the cancer is located. Rather than removing an entire prostate, an ultrasound probe is inserted into the rectum while the patient is asleep, and its heat and sound waves (much like a magnifying glass utilizing the sun to burn a hole in a piece of paper) destroy cancer cells while leaving the healthy tissue intact. The procedure is efficient, precise and localized. And perhaps most importantly, it decreases the chances of impotence, incontinence and bowel function disturbance. Its only downfall is that it’s not covered by the

Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP), and men must be diagnosed early to receive it.

“Men should be screened for prostate cancer when they turn 50 years old,” advises Dr. Nam. “If your urinary flow is difficult or slow, if you’re waking up during the middle of the night to pee, if you have a frequent urgency to pee or if you’re leaking pee, you could be exhibiting the signs of prostate cancer or an enlarged prostate that should be looked at. Either way, you should get checked out.”

Regardless of whether you have a familial history or even one of the several symptoms, testing is the proactive choice. Prostate cancer is an unnoticed disease that can, unfortunately, creep up on the unsuspecting. Testing is the only solution and even if you receive a negative diagnosis, it is always preferred over not testing, discovering you have cancer too and having to live with a catheter for the rest of your life. “The way I see it,” says Dr. Nam, “You can either do something about this when you turn 50 or you can go golfing. I do both.”

“

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADOBE STOCK.

PORTRAIT COURTESY OF ROBEERT NAM, MD, FRCSC

HOME SWEET HOME

Tridel is a builder that needs no introduction in the Greater Toronto Area real estate market, but what you might not know is how truly exceptional the brand is when it comes to its o erings and sensational service.

By Lisa van de Geyn

If you had to pinpoint the main hallmarks Tridel stands for, you might consider its high-quality homes and exceptional service. You might also single out its outstanding homeowner experience and dedication to using the latest technologies and advances in construction. Or you might simply refer to its proven track record when it comes to winning awards and its team that can take a luxury residence from concept to completion.

An absolute leader in condominium building, the company started more than 85 years ago by founder Jack DelZotto, who had strong principles when it came to home, community and family. Jack’s eldest son, Angelo DelZotto, was an innovator like his father — he built the first apartment complex in 1961. It was

a marvel, with two towers, a recreation room, swimming pool and beautifully landscaped gardens, and it certainly laid the groundwork for the modern condominium concept as we know it today. Angelo and his brothers, Elvio and Leo, along with the DelZotto’s third generation have paved the path to becoming one of the foremost developers in the Greater Toronto Area. “With more than 87,000 homes built over the last 85 years, what sets us apart in the market is that we’re one of the most awarded builders when it comes to our service and quality and sustainability,” says Samson Fung, vice-president of sales and marketing. “While other developers often outsource certain areas of their business, such as sales and marketing, we have everything under the Tridel umbrella managing builds from concept to completion. When you purchase a home with us, you’re going to have a fully finished suite of lifestyle amenities, including

indoor/outdoor pools, spas, fitness centres, multipurpose rooms and sometimes even really great curated retail on the first floor of communities.”

There’s no denying this builder develops luxurious spaces chockful of wonderful design elements and conveniences. “Once you become a Tridel client, you are paired with a customer care representative who ensures you have all the information you could possibly need from your initial purchase to getting your keys,” says Fung. The most exciting part for residents is when it’s time to design their space. “We have an incredible 6,000-square-foot showroom called ‘The Lobby’ that residents can go through with one of our talented designers. We offer multiple appointments, and the opportunity to design and select features and finishes to personalize your home done via an app. For residents who make eco-living a priority, building green is

Whether you are dreaming of curling up in bed or relaxing on the couch with a cup of tea, the specialized team at David’s Fine Linens invites you to experience the best in bedding.

important to our company. Tridel is a 13-time recipient of the Green Builder of the Year Award by the Building Industry Land Development (BILD). “We understand the impact our business can have on the environment, we strive to minimize our footprint by selecting sustainable materials, incorporate innovative building practices, to

help build strong, healthy, and resilient communities; it’s something we’re very proud of,” Fung says.

Another trademark for the company is its use of smart home technology. Tridel Connect is all about making everyday life simpler for residents and includes an incredible list of convenient features for a better living experience. “We offer everything from automated parcel pickup to licence plate recognition. It’s spectacular,” he says. “Luxury clients can control their homes from anywhere. In one of our buildings, we have a wall panel that looks like a tablet for residents to book amenities and get helpful advice. It’s a remarkable feature.”

“With so many players in the industry, it’s our brand that sets us apart. We are always in the forefront of consumers’ minds. We have wonderful name recognition, not just because of all our BILD Awards, but also because we design and build exceptional properties,” Fung says with pride. That’s what’s of utmost importance to Fung and his team, of all the things we’ve built, our customers’ trust is what matters most.”

INTERIOR SPACE AND DOOR DESIGNED BY FERRIS RAFAULI

Libby Wildman Finance Expert

LESSONS FROM AN INSIDER

Our financial expert, Libby Wildman, recounts a family story about money that has changed her relationship with wealth and the way she sees her life when it comes to finances.

By Libby Wildman

When asked what surprised him most about humanity, the Dalai Lama answered, “Man! Because he sacrifices his health in order to make money. Then he sacrifices money to recuperate his health. And then he is so anxious about the future that he does not enjoy the present; the result being that he does not live in the present or the future; he lives as if he is never going to die, and then dies having never really lived.”

In our fortunate lives of living in a first-world country, I find that our past and, more specifically, our generational wounds around money, live on and on, far past any usefulness. Money has become a commodity, a virtue, a sin, a gift, a tool and a measuring stick.

Whether it is in the form of a gold bar, crypto, bills under your mattress (yes, I know many people who still hide cash), stocks or

in your home, these nebulous values sink deep into our psyche. We know how important money is to sustain a life that we chase after, yet we also know there is so much more to what makes us happy. What is the psyche? It’s something you build inside of the mind that is about you. “I am the one who is lucky to have inherited a lot of money. I am the one who doesn’t feel it is mine.” This builds a concept around who you are, and everyone is different. Some who inherit vast sums spend voraciously building a life around what they can buy. Others feel shame and a lack of purpose for not having made it themselves.

When I was young, a story that was often told in our family centred around the day my grandfather lost his job. My dad’s eldest brother, Chuck, had been killed in an accident at university and

my grandfather had just accepted a job that would move the family across Canada. My grandmother could not possibly move a week within burying her eldest son. In those days, that meant resignation and no job for my poor grandad. It was the first time that my dad saw his father cry. How would they pay the bills? What would people think? What was their future? They were deeply grieving, and the man of the house was not bringing in an income. The solution was that my grandmother went to work. She took a job at Birks Canada and paid for the family until he could find a new career.

This was the beginning of a powerful family Samskara. That is, impressions that stay in your mind and heart. In his fabulous new book, Living Untethered, Beyond the Human Predicament, Michael Singer explains how we hang on to these Samskaras and activate them quite frequently when the world comes in and hits us.

I am the third generation of this money story, and it still affects me. My dad, Robbie, saw his father helpless and not being able to fulfil his traditional role as the income earner. He saw his mother go to work, when other mothers were not working outside the home, just to make ends meet. Robbie then and there resolved to never be in a position where he was “broke” and had no resources to fall back on. He became an excellent saver and shied away from taking too much risk with money, as one never knew when the world would deliver you a blow. He never wanted my mom to have to go to work. Granted, this was all old-fashioned thinking. Still, it created boundaries and parameters around how Robbie thought about making enough, saving enough and never being in too much debt.

As I grew up and heard this story told many times, I became the student of this Samskara, and I, too, created my own very powerful impressions, biases, fears and corresponding distorted view of reality. “I will never be dependent upon a man, or anyone for that matter, for money.” This was my internal mantra. I was completely driven to make enough money to have a great life funded by me. And, oh yes, saving was a big part of feeling “safe” within my money world.

At some point, with enough time spent exploring how to live my best life, hiring coaches to help me find my purpose, my gift and what would bring me my most joy, I became conscious of these triggers inside of me. My life had become a self-fulfilled prophecy. After two divorces, I was now fully raising and paying for my three young children. I decided the cycle needed to stop.

I worked with a few different life teachers to understand that this piece of history was “his story,” not mine. I created a full financial on myself and got very close with my numbers. Like any company’s balance sheet, I knew my inflows, my outflows, my fixed costs, my variables and my yearly goals for saving, travel and my kids’ education. I started to realize that I had been financing my family’s lifestyle even before either of my divorces and there had always been enough money. I had always been able to provide and save. The fear was truly, False Evidence Appearing Real. I learned to acknowledge the trigger when it came up — the fear that I would become a bag lady — and replace it with the truth that I was doing just fine. I had a solid plan in place; my fixed expenses were allotted for, I had money for emergencies and opportunities and saved first, spent what was left. I continued to work with experts who taught me how to reshape my thinking and change the narrative around my relationship with money. Money is a tool that can work for me and provide exciting opportunities to live life my way, however, it is not who I am, nor does it have an agenda. Money is not personal; it is not mean or generous, nor greedy or kind. Its role in our lives is one that we often inherit or make up when we are feeling unworthy, unsafe and insecure about what we have to offer this world. My finding is that no matter where you are on the net-worth page, if you are comfortable that you have a purpose, a gift to share, a skill that is useful to others, your money story will be less threatening and more like an old bully who no longer needs to visit.

As Shane Parrish of Farnam Street says, “A large part of wisdom is knowing what to ignore. A large part of expertise is knowing where to place your attention.” Be wise about letting go and hire an expert who gets you to help focus on what matters.

Libby Wildman is Head of Wealth Advisory at the Toronto-based investment firm Davis Rea and the founder of Liminal Escapes creative curated retreats.

FASHIONFORWARD

Living Luxe was thrilled to take part in “The Grandest Night of Fashion,” a spectacular evening in September.

Hosted by fashion legend and Living Luxe lifestyle editor Jeanne Beker, we were proud to attend “The Grandest Night of Fashion” — a partnership between the Canadian Arts and Fashion Awards (CAFA) and the Fairmont Royal York on September 7. Leading up to the Toronto International Film Festival, it was as elegant an evening as you can possibly imagine, with lavish decor, stunning high-couture fashion and an incredible ambiance. As always, Jeanne spoke with such eloquence — her heartfelt words about personal strength filled the audience — and guests listened as some of the country’s top emerging and established fashion talents reflected on the future of glamour. The show featured the designs of Narces, RVNG, Mark Belford, Stephan Caras, Israella Kobla, King and Bay, Lesley Hampton, Mani Jassal, Pink Tartan and Rita Tesolin. Erika Larva, who has set the stage for many more great events to come, produced the fabulous show.

1. LIFE EDWARDS AND TYRONE EDWARDS. 2. ERIKA LARVA. 3. LESLEY HAMPTON AND JESSICA PANETTA. 4. MELISSA GRELO, MEREDITH SHAW, JESSICA ALLEN AND CYNTHIA LOYST. 5. ANTHONY SIRIANNI AND JEANNE BEKER.

HANNAH KIM , VICKY MILNER AND LAUREN WALKER. 7. MARY DEPAOLI, CHRISTINE SIMPSON AND MELISSA BUBB-CLARKE. 8. CHRISTI HIMMELHEBER 9. ALICIA MCNAMARA. 10. ANDREA BOLLEY. 11. MARK BELFORD AND MODEL.

ROXY EARLE (LESLEY HAMPTON, DESIGNER).

By Anthony Sirianni

Photography by George Pimentel

Anthony Sirianni Chief Operating Officer

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REVELLE TAKES MUSKOKA

By Tamara Bahry Photographer Sarah Stevenson

On August 11, Tamara Bahry hosted Revelle X Muskoka on her beautiful dock. Invited guests gathered to take in Revelle’s designs while having custom fashion watercolour illustrations done by sensational artist Beckie Delio. The women in attendance also quite enjoyed the collagen-infused nitrogen ice cream created by renowned chef Jagger Gordon while listening to hot tunes spun by DJ Jack.

Proceeds from the sale of Revelle items were donated to support HART (Human Anti-trafficking Response Team), which assists children and young adults fleeing the grips of human trafficking. HART is dedicated to supporting the physical and mental well-being of all sex-trafficking survivors by raising awareness of the issue, contributing to survivor recovery and developing targeted, factbased initiatives to address this crisis systemically.

1. TAMARA BAHRY AND DONNA THOMPSON. 2. AVA REALE, CHLOE LEVINSKY AND DELANEY BELSHER. 3.LILLY LI, JOAN KELLEY WALKER AND DANNI MATTE. 4. BECKIE DELIO. 5.BECKIE DELIO ILLUSTRATION.

ANDREA ANDERS.

7. LESLIE ZEMLA, SYLVIA BAUMANN AND DINAH DEIF. 8. REVELLE OWNER RAANA KALPAKJI. 9. REVELLE CLOTHING. 10. SONDI LINDROS AND KATE WALLACE. 11. MARCI COOK AND STEPHANIE COHEN.

RALLY TOGETHER

By Lorraine Quartaro Photography by Anthony Lavignasse, Anthony Guerra and Theo Jung

This year’s annual Boat Rally for Cancer, presented by Platinum Cars and Glen Road Capital Partners, offered fundraisers, cottage-lovers, celebrities and corporate partners the best weekend experience in Muskoka, Ont. This fun event — held on August 19 and 20 — marked the return of this high-end scavenger hunt on the water.

Proceeds raised over the weekend went toward helping to improve cancer care through early detection, holistic care, precision treatment and innovative research at Toronto’s Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre’s Odette Cancer Centre, as well as support the great work being done by Ronald McDonald House Charities Toronto for families.

Boat Rally for Cancer combines community, the thrilling experience of being out on the water and the pleasure of giving back. This unique, invigorating and memorable event offered sponsors and participants two incredible days of fun and excitement. Friday evening’s draft party was held at a private cottage, and fundraisers had the opportunity to draft a celebrity navigator during the event’s reception. Saturday’s festivities started at Rosseau Lake College, where the checkered flag was waved. Then, teams hit the water for a series of exhilarating challenges called “pitstops” for pure cottage adventure, earning points along the way. The Winners Circle barbecue gala dinner capped off an incredible day. The dinner featured great food and beverages from Marbl Toronto’s new restaurant, Mademoiselle. Fantastic entertainment was provided by Marianas Trench, Karl Wolf and Kardinal Offishall. There was also a thriving live silent auction filled with must-have items. Finally, the evening included inspirational moments from cancer survivors, making Boat Rally for Cancer the must-attend event of the summer.

Featured guests who made the trip up to cottage country included performers Adam Tsekhman, Billy Baldwin, Dash Mihok, Jes Macallan, John O’Hurley and Juliana Harkavy; sports greats such as NHL alumni Gary Leeman, Toronto Maple Leaf Kyle Clifford, NBA alumni Ron Harper and Detroit Red Wings Sam Gagner; and Fish TV host Leo Stakos.

LEFT

SANDI TRELIVING, JIM TRELIVING AND CHRISTINE AVANTI FISCHER. 2. GUEST, KARDINAL OFFISHALL, GUEST. 3. ANTHONY SIRIANNI AND JENNIFER LIPKOWITZ. 4. DAN COOPER, BILLY BALDWIN, PETER GIRGES AND GUEST.

BOAT RALLY PARTICIPANTS. 6. JEOFFERY QUINTON AND JOHN O’HURLEY. 7. DR. PEARLMAN, TAMARA BAHRY AND JENNIFER LIPKOWITZ. 8. BOAT RALLY PARTICIPANTS.

Celebrities, fundraisers and corporate partners united to make the impossible possible for Canadians su ering from cancer.

COTTAGE COUNTRY CELEBRATIONS

Guests at the Bonfire Bash revelled in sunny Muskoka in support of children with cancer, while more than $170,000 was raised for CNIB Lake Joe at the recent Dock-to-Dock event.

By Tamara Bahry & Joan Kelley Walker Photography by George Pimentel

More than 200 people turned up at the Bonfire Bash in Muskoka, Ont., on July 28 to support Campfire Circle (formerly Camp Ooch and Camp Trillium), a charity that helps kids and families affected by childhood cancer. The event — which featured cocktails, a concert and dinner at Gatts’ Lodge — was presented by BMO Financial Group and co-chaired by Michael and Carrie DeGroote, with help from honorary co-chairs Myles Mindham and Karen Fonn. Partygoers raised more than $500,000, enough to fund at least 200 weeks of overnight camp for deserving children.

A couple of weeks later, on August 13, more than 200 people joined together as “dock hosts,” guests, sponsors, volunteers and donors to support CNIB Lake Joe through “Dock-to-Dock: Taste of Muskoka.”

LivingLuxe philanthropy editor Joan Kelley Walker says she was honoured to cohost this one-of-a-kind event with veteran broadcaster Rod Black and was inspired by everyone’s incredible generosity. The funds raised will support and enhance the lives of those who are blind or partially sighted by enabling them to experience the thrill of watersports at CNIB Lake Joe. A new waterski boat, equipment and accessories will enhance the adaptive waterski program and make it possible for everyone to experience the thrill of waterskiing. The delicious “dock boxes,” music and entertainment made for a beautiful afternoon with friends and family for a good cause. Sponsors included NKS Health, AMI, Mantella Corporation, Pioneer Group, Pride Marine Group, Susan Creasy Financial and Budget Propane; as well as dock-box media sponsors (including Living Luxe) and the Give Back Collective.

1. DAWN PICKERING, SON OLLIE ACOSTA-PICKERING AND BUDDY DOG HOPE. 2.JOAN KELLEY WALKER WITH NANCY AND STEVE SIMONOT. 3. ROD BLACK, JESSICA BAILEY AND SHERRI HELSDINGEN. 4. GUESTS AT JOAN KELLEY WALKER’S DOCK. 5. JASON MITSCHELE AND ALEXANDRA FENTON. 6. SUE CASKEY FRANCIS AND MYLES MINDEN. 7. BRETT AND SONDI LINDROS. 8. PATRICK AND FERNANDA DOVIGI. 9. TAMARA BAHRY AND ROBERT WHITE. 10. CARRIE AND MICHAEL DEGROOTE.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHANI BUCHMAN

RELAX IN STYLE

See the story on page 142.

There’s something both sumptuous and comfortable about this exquisite living room by Wise Nadel Design.

Jeanne Beker

Lifestyle Editor

Dress: Greta Constantine

Shoes: Gucci

Secret Garden, Casa Loma

ON AIR

WITH

MELISSA GRELO

Melissa Grelo, cohost of talk show The Social, is super down to earth, which makes sense, based on her upbringing. The glam journalist is one of those people who you love and identify with the moment you speak with them. That’s what our lifestyle editor, Jeanne Beker, quickly discovered. Here, she chats with Melissa about her childhood, career change, live television and the people who ground her.

By Jeanne Beker Photography by Natasha Gerschon Styled by Jenna Bitove-Naumovich Makeup by Lucas Drigues

Hair by Keisha Williams On-Set Artist Sandra Yang Photography venue Casa Loma, Toronto

The first time I really felt I was getting to know Melissa Grelo was on our way to cover the 2011 Royal wedding of Kate and William. A group of us from CTV were pumped at the prospect of spending a few magical days in London. And there was Melissa, bringing her charming mom along to share in the joy. I suddenly understood everything that my best friend Penny used to tell me about the Grelo family: Penny had been taking riding lessons at the Grelo family farm in Caledon for years and couldn’t say enough about the inspiring warmth of these friendly, down-to-earth people.

It’s hard to believe that the stylish and savvy Melissa, who we see through a highly glam lens each weekday hosting CTV’s popular chat show, The Social, grew up on a horse farm. It sounds idyllic. But according to the 45-year-old petite dynamo, she didn’t see farm life as “idyllic” until she hit her mid-twenties. “When you're a farm kid — and I think most farm kids would say this — a farm is work,” shares Melissa. “My father has a saying: ‘The son of a fish must learn how to

swim.’ What he meant by that was he was a horseman with a farm and two daughters. Therefore, we were going to become horsewomen. You certainly don't get a choice. And while I think horses are beautiful and majestic and all of the wonderful things that they bring, they’re also a lot of work. So, I was only able to look back when I left home at 24 or 25 and didn't have the daily chores I’d had from probably age four or five. That’s when I realized how special and unique it was for me growing up,” she says.

It wasn’t just her farm responsibilities that set Melissa apart from the pack early on. The cultural diversity she was raised with was paramount to the woman she became. Melissa’s mom is Filipino, and her father is Portuguese. And growing up in a homogenous, rural small town had its challenges. “The idea of children of mixed heritage is very common now,” she says. “Back then it wasn’t. I remember walking around with my mom and dad, and everyone's just staring at me,” she reminisces. “I realized very young that we were not only in a different

situation because of our heritage, but both my parents, being immigrants, had very heavy accents, so they stood out for many reasons. Kids in school were merciless. I looked much more Filipino when I was young, and kids would ask, 'Are you Chinese?' Sadly, I’d go home to try and tell my parents about it. My dad, who was a really strict guy who came from the military, would just not have it. You had to be tough and figure it out for yourself.”

When it came to choosing her career path, Melissa did figure it out for herself. The teaching bug bit her at a very young age. Of course, she’d been riding horses her whole life and began coaching others at the age of 12. But her dad tells the story of being late coming back to the farm once and finding the eight-year-old Melissa teaching a group of his adult riding students. “He says that’s when he knew I was going to be a natural at either commanding the room or teaching,” says Melissa. “Coaching and teaching came very naturally to me. I think there’s a very transferable skill set from teaching to broadcasting, and going into news, which is where I started. It's kind of shocking how similar that skill set is, whether it's your reading, your writing, your research: It’s being thorough, knowing your audience and how to command an audience and impart information and knowledge. It's kind of second nature,” she opines.

After teaching grades 7 and 8 for a few years, Melissa decided to go back to school to get a master’s degree, studying gender equality. But she soon realized it wasn’t for her. “I think a lot of things converged at that moment,” she confides. “I was exhausted, going nonstop. I probably had the quintessential quarter-life crisis. I needed to reassess because I realized I wasn’t that happy.” Melissa says she’s lucky that she was raised by parents who always encouraged her to listen to her inner voice, go with her gut and make sure to love what she did. “My dad was the poster child for someone who had this wacky, wild, passionate dream that he followed. And it was successful: We’re celebrating 46 years at the farm! So, I come from that lineage that says you gotta go for it — whatever that it is,” she says with a smile.

Melissa sought the help of career coach psychologist and pulled out of her master’s program. Her parents weren’t thrilled, but once the shock wore off, she decided what she really wanted to try her hand at was journalism. One of her dad’s clients invited her to go to Montreal to job shadow the news reporters at the CTV Montreal affiliate station. “The first day I was in a newsroom, I just lit up and I never looked back. I found a post-grad journalism program and just did anything and everything I had to do to work in this industry,” Melissa says passionately.

She went from strength to strength, and some might think her career path in the media was easy. But she credits the fact that she’d had some life experience before she got into the industry. “I think a lot of people come out of journalism school and hit the road. But I had already had a short career and several degrees under my belt, so I came in with a little bit more planning and organization than others. I knew I’d have to get an internship after my journalism studies at Seneca College, and hopefully that

internship would turn into a job.” Melissa secured an internship at CKVR in Barrie, Ont., before she finished her studies. “Sometimes I guess it’s luck and preparedness and all the planetary alignments, because the second day of my internship I was offered an on-air job, and that doesn't happen,” she says with pride. CityTV’s news director just happened to be visiting the Barrie station that day and was impressed with Melissa. He asked her what her goal was, and she said, “to be on air.” He told the CKVR news director to get her some mileage on camera, and shortly thereafter, when CityTV’s weather specialist went on maternity leave, Melissa was offered the weather reporting job in Toronto. “I had to be at the station by 4 a.m. But guess what? I was happy to get up at 2:30 a.m. every morning!” she enthusiastically recalls.

Eventually, Melissa began reporting on the newly formed CP24. But when Rogers acquired CityTV from CTV in 2007, CP24 remained with CTV. Suddenly, Melissa’s horizons broadened and she was given opportunities to expand her reach from the local CP24 Breakfast show to a larger, national platform. Always impressed by Melissa’s energy and affable nature, her CTV managers asked her to help cover the 2010 Vancouver Olympics. Not long after that, Melissa pitched the idea for The Social. Two years later, it was green lit, and it’s currently celebrating its 10th season.

But successful women cannot live by work alone. Melissa’s greatest love is her devoted husband, Ryan Gaggi, a contractor who has his own construction company. They met through a mutual friend and married 14 years ago. “This industry is wild. You have to have your rock — and he's been that for me,” she says. “We couldn't have a family if I was running around like this. I mean, it just would be impossible. So, he’s really been a rock and he's been so flexible. I’m so grateful for everything we do.”

The couple gave birth to their adorable, spirited daughter, Marquesa, eight years ago. Having a child changed Melissa’s attitude toward work — and her lifestyle. “I was always the hustler. I would not bat an eyelash to work 16-hour days. And I loved it. I wasn't thinking about what that was doing to me. The word ‘burnout’ didn't exist. I just loved it so much,” she says. “I lived for those days with CP24, where it was breaking news all the time. People wouldn’t have to wait until 6 p.m. to find out what was happening in the news. We were truly trailblazing. Perhaps if I had already had a child at that point, it would have been different. But I was just doing and saying yes to absolutely everything. Which of course is just not physically possible when you have a child.”

After less than three months of mat leave, Melissa was back on air. And a couple of years later, she and Ryan and the baby moved to a cozy neighbourhood in Etobicoke that was close to schools and felt just right. Ryan is currently renovating the house, as the family’s needs grow. But part of Melissa’s heart will always be at her family farm — an enterprise in which she continues to be very involved, running events and even doing some backup teaching. She’s usually there for at least one day on weekends. What does the farm give her? “It’s a form of meditation in a weird way,” she explains. “This pace that we keep in our lives is such a hustle. It

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makes most people's heads spin. The farm and animals don't work like that. In fact, horses would react very negatively against that kind of energy. So, it really forces me to slow down. Nobody knows me better than when I'm at the farm. I can just totally be me, completely. It's not ‘TV Melissa.’”

Happily, though, the thrill of being on TV is still there for Melissa, despite the changing times. The good sign is that she never feels like she’s going to work. “That excitement where you just jump out of bed and you can't wait to get into the studio, well, that’s definitely changed because I have to be mindful of things like energy now, because when I wake up, my first thing is not work. It's taking care of my family, taking the dog out and getting my daughter ready for school. That’s my first job I’m focused on,” she says. “But when I'm en route to work and start into work mode, I don't think I've ever lost that excitement.” The biggest change, Melissa feels, is the awareness of the responsibility that she bears in her job. After all, she’s afforded an influential platform where Canadians — especially women — can get different perspectives. So, she’s more mindful and responsible about how she presents on air and what she says, because there’s a feeling of more gravitas with what she’s doing. “Over the last several years of the show, I feel like we've hit a different level with our conversations and some of the topics that we discussed. Of course, we’ll always love fashion, entertainment and celebrity gossip, but when the time calls for really heavy stuff, it's a lot of responsibility,” she admits. “I understand that there are ramifications and consequences of what I'm going to say on air. I approach it much more cautiously and carefully than I used to, rather than just with full, unbridled excitement.”

On the fashion front, you’d be hard-pressed to find an onair talent more enthusiastic about having fun with fashion. I ask Melissa if it ever feels like too much of a good thing to her. But she’s quick to tell me that there’s no such thing

as too much fashion. “When I moved from the news world into lifestyle, it became a different thing. When you're anchoring news, you got to dress the part. When “The Social” kicked off, we had a stylist and full hair and makeup team. It was the first time on-air that I was going deep into figuring out what my style was like,” she recounts. “I've still been evolving over the 10 seasons. Our audience is tuning in not only for what we talk about, but they’re also tuning in for the fashion, so the fashion for me now is so much fun. And how lucky are we to have a stylist who has access to the most amazing clothes? I just pinch myself every day because I'm a country girl from a horse farm! In what world did I think that this would be my life?” she asks incredulously. “I don't take it for granted. Because it does feel like dress-up and I feel very lucky to be able to play a fantasy.”

Between her family duties, moderating duties at The Social, contributing to CTV’s Your Morning and co-founding MarQ Designs, a kids’ clothing line, you could say Melissa’s cup runneth over. But it’s obvious her drive knows no bounds and her energy isn’t waning. Where does she see herself down the road? It’s a tough one to answer, with the media landscape shifting so dramatically. But she’s adamant about continuing live TV — something she likens to her “heartbeat.” She says she’d never rule out going back to news. “My heart still beats when there's breaking news and I can't tear away from the TV. It’s because I want to be there covering it,” she laughs. “I’ve pitched an after-dark version of The Social. I think there’s an appetite for a nighttime version of the show where the rules aren't as stringent to follow in terms of either language or subject matter. We'll see if one day the network bites.” And Melissa says that at a much later stage in her career, she wouldn’t rule out teaching again. “But I'm not done with TV yet, even though it’s changing. Still, I'm also willing to ride that wave to see where it goes. “

THE FIRST DAY I WAS IN A NEWSROOM, I JUST LIT UP AND I NEVER LOOKED BACK. I FOUND A POST-GRAD JOURNALISM PROGRAM AND JUST DID ANYTHING AND EVERYTHING I HAD TO DO TO WORK IN THIS INDUSTRY.

IN A MAN’S world

By Lisa van de Geyn Photography by Larry Arnal

Andrea

McMullen, the principal designer and owner of ADM Design Inc. doesn’t always work with clients like this one. It’s typical of her to sing the praises of the folks whose homes she designs, but she has a soft spot for this particular client. “I loved this project. It’s for a man and his two teen boys. It was so fun to be able to create something I knew they’d love. He’s smart, into music and loves movie nights with his boys. He’s a great dad who is always trying to be a better person, so I knew I was creating a space for an amazing father and that was special. It was my job to create a home that would allow him to become the person he wants to be,” she says proudly.

The 2,800-square-foot three-storey townhouse in Innisfil, Ont.’s Friday Harbour needed a complete overhaul. “When I first went into the home, I could see there were many things that needed to be done structurally and design-wise. I knew I’d tear it apart and start from scratch,” she says. “He knew functionally what he wanted but didn’t have direction when it came to the style of the space. He always said, ‘You’re the professional; I trust you.’ He made quick decisions and allowed me to do what I’m good at.”

So, McMullen got to work, gutting the main hallways, stairwells, kitchen, family room and dining area. “We had to repair floors and we

When a single father of two sons hired her to complete the renovation of his townhouse, designer Andrea McMullen took the opportunity to create something truly creative — an upscale masculine home.

was really a blessing to work on this space.”

tore out walls and removed what had been a bar. In the kitchen, we tore up the drywall up to the ceiling and added a row of upper horizontal backlit cabinets. We also selected black appliances with chic gold hardware, which complemented the black-and-walnut palette we chose,” she says. She truly added the bells and whistles to make the kitchen a functional and perfectly designed space. Take the gold backsplash — it’s exquisite and paired with the incredible light fixture above the island, it creates an opulent vignette. The client saw the lights in ADM’s design centre and had to have them. “They give off incredible light; they’re both form and function. I love that they’re gorgeous, but they create so much light for the working area beneath.” Light is of utmost importance in a space, but so is seating, so McMullen had the bar stools custom made. “I think chairs are like shoes — they need to be both stunning and comfy.” She also placed great emphasis on creating smart storage solutions. “Adding more storage was a big mandate and it’s something I’m good at. You need to be able to put things away and not see clutter — it takes away from how you’ve decorated your home.”

The living room off the kitchen also received a huge facelift. It’s very warm and comfortable, but the

“It

original space needed McMullen’s touch. The oversized sofa took up the whole space and didn’t allow any seating at the island. “I removed a section of it and switched it around to create a better seating arrangement,” she says.

The feature wall is extravagant and pulls the room together. Designed by McMullen’s colleague from ADM Design Inc., Shirin Salamat, the wall is done in custom black cabinetry with back-drilled walnut pieces. It showcases the 80-inch television beautifully. “The TV is a significant feature in a space designed for men, and I didn’t want it to stick out like a sore thumb. It blends into its surroundings now.” She finished off the space with luxury pillows she found in Las Vegas and Versace candles.

McMullen carried the black into the principal bedroom upstairs and played with colour and prints in the spectacular palm leaf wallpaper. “I figured he’d either love it or hate it, but I was dying to get that natural vibe in the space, and he was totally down with it. It doesn’t scream ‘manly,’ but paired with the white shag rug and crisp white linens, it really works,” she says. Storage was key upstairs, too, so she created a wall of white cabinetry with incredible 42-inch black handles to make a statement.

There are other statement-makers in the home — the owner’s art collection is sensational. McMullen has a storied background in art and sells it at her stunning boutique. “The client came to one of my art shows for the incomparable Pietro Adamo and bought one piece and commissioned two pieces, so there are three original Pietro Adamo’s in the house,” she says. One of these

works sits prominently in the powder room, which McMullen redesigned with quirky elements, like the gold hand that sticks out from the wall. “The door to the powder room is always open and the first thing you see, other than the cool wallpaper, is the painting. It just sings in there.” The piece in the dining area, by artist Calman Shemi, was shipped from Israel and brings pops of colour into the space.

When it came time for him to see the finished space, McMullen knew her client immediately loved what she had created. “He’s not a talkative guy — in fact, he’s a man of few words — but his words were so kind, and I could feel how happy he was,” says McMullen. “It was really a blessing to work on this space.”

THIS IMAGE: DALE CHIHULY, OLIVE BROWN PERSIAN SET TANGERINE LIP WRAPS, 2002

OF GLASS

Heart

The Sandra Ainsley Gallery takes art and relationships to a high and heartfelt level.

By Adriana Ermter Photography by Hyghly Allenye, Chihuly Studio, Martin Blank Studios

Golden streaks of yellow dance like the sun. Infusions of red, orange and amber come alive in layered blocks. Robin’s egg blue, smoothed into clusters of ethereal circles, likens a bird’s nest. These are just a few of the thoughts that race through the beholder’s mind when entering the Sandra Ainsley Gallery. It’s an art lover’s mecca, comprised of beautiful glass, sculpted into shapes that shift in their allure with the ever-changing light. “The colour, the light, the movement,” says Sandra Ainsley, the Toronto-based gallery’s proprietor and director. “There is something about glass

that moves me.”

This emotion has translated into a nearly 40-year-long career dedicated to seeking and sharing the works of glass artists from around the world. It all began in 1982 during a trip to Santa Fe, New Mexico, where Ainsley stumbled upon a gallery exclusively exhibiting glass sculpture. Mesmerized by the complexity and diversity of the art form, she connected with the gallery’s owner who introduced her to the artists. “At the time, no one was selling glass in Canada,” says Ainsley, who after returning to Toronto ran with the opportunity,

hosting exhibitions for high-end retailers Holt Renfrew and Creeds before opening her first gallery in Hazelton Lanes in Yorkville two years later. “In the beginning, I’d meet artists at different craft shows and the word spread about the gallery,” adds Ainsley. “I am always looking for new artists. The glass world is a tight community, and everyone is connected.”

In 1988, Ainsley had a major stroke of luck. She had a chance interaction with one of the most acclaimed glass artists in history, Dale Chihuly. The pair hit if off and ever since, Ainsley has represented the world-renowned artist exclusively in Canada. Featured in more than 200 museums around the world, students clamour to attend the

Pilchuck Glass School in Washington State that Chihuly co-founded in 1971 to foster and educate the creative use of glass in art and design. “Dale Chihuly is an important presence in my life, to my clients and to the world of contemporary art,” affirms Ainsley. “Ours is a longendearing relationship built on mutual respect.”

In 2002, Ainsley pioneered Chihuly’s largest private gallery exhibition, attended by more than 2,000 patrons on opening night at her gallery, then located in the Distillery District. It firmly placed Chihuly on Canada’s art-to-watch map. His work continues to be prominently displayed, along with many additional notable artists, such as Holland’s Peter Bremers, Germany’s Wilfried Grootens and America’s Dante

THIS IMAGE: 2020 DALE CHIHULY EXHIBITION AT SANDRA AINSLEY GALLERY

Marioni, at Ainsley’s current gallery on Sunrise Avenue. Her gallery has become a destination spot for designers, art aficionados and those keen to experience the medium.

Patrons can also appreciate artists’ work on the gallery’s website, via its Instagram and YouTube channels and through Zoom presentations. Still, Ainsley’s preference is the one-on-one experience she creates between the patrons and the artists. This often includes invitations to exhibitions at the gallery, virtual and in-person meet and greets with the artists, trips to artists’ studios, excursions to museums and even to Chihuly’s Pilchuck Glass School. It’s one part education

and information, another pure excitement, and all about creating a lasting and impressionable experience.

“The relationship and trust between myself and the artist and the patron, it’s the most important thing I do. Discovering what the client desires and then matching them with the perfect artist leads to the client falling in love with the piece. It’s intimate, an artistic matchmaking, and I’m lucky I get to do it,” says Ainsley. “I love everything I’ve done since the beginning, but there’s no better thrill than to have someone come into the gallery for the first time and take in an artist’s work and say ‘wow.’”

“ IT’S THE RELATIONSHIP AND TRUST BETWEEN MYSELF AND THE ARTIST AND THE PATRON, IT’S THE MOST IMPORTANT THING I DO. DISCOVERING WHAT THE CLIENT DESIRES AND THEN MATCHING THEM WITH THE PERFECT ARTIST LEADS TO THE CLIENT FALLING IN LOVE WITH THE PIECE.”

COPYRIGHT

ABOVE IMAGE: DALE CHIHULY, ORANGE MADDER MACCHIA WITH OLIVE, 2012

THIS IMAGE: MARTIN BLANK, ALABASTER BLOOMS

BY DESIGN

This stunning space in Oakville, Ont. is the epitome of what designer Darlene Janeiro calls “liveable luxury.” We caught up with her to discuss the renovation, redesign and refresh.

By Adriana Ermter Photography by Larry Arnal

With

a motto that says, “Live in moments that matter,” it’s clear the Darlene Janeiro Design team doesn’t just create rooms, they incorporate their clients’ style and lifestyle into the entire home. “We cater to our clients’ needs,” affirms Darlene Janeiro, the principal designer of her eponymous Oakville, Ont.-based company. “Sure, we provide a vision and add better form and function, however, it’s important to get to know our clients and understand how they live and what they love.”

It’s a formula with proven results, as most of Janeiro’s clients find her through wellestablished relationships. Her latest project, a residential condominium on Maple Ave-

nue in Burlington, Ont., was no exception. The owners of a spacious 2,500-square-foot, three-bedroom, two-bath unit on the lake wanted to renovate their suite after experiencing an unfortunate flood and were seeking a designer that resonated with their taste and personality. The two were very precise about the expectations of their interior style — a sophisticated space with a contemporary design in a welcoming environment, complete with comfort and livability were paramount. As was colour. “After meeting, I discovered they had travelled to Sedona, Arizona, and had fallen in love with a local artist’s bold and colourful paintings. They decided to buy some of the artist’s work,” says Janeiro. “Colour had been missing for them, so I wanted to bring that back into their lives.”

Initially, Janeiro, along with designers Dalia Elkhatib and Daniele Guimaraes, began by replacing the current flooring with a beautiful European oak hardwood from Alexanian Flooring in Burlington. By using a white-and-black colour palette with gold accents, they brought a bright and fresh aesthetic to the space. In the foyer, the stunning

white custom-designed feature wall captures the eye and leads you to the bold dining room area. Throughout, you feel the distinctive atmosphere in the home. “From a design concept, we implemented contrast to generate movement in the space and add a lively and intimate sense of warmth,” adds Janeiro. “And the beautiful millwork and panels add a lustrous backdrop to the furniture and finishes.”

Renowned for their cabinetry and millwork, Janeiro collaborated with Estate Interiors from Concord to manifest the condo’s textured feature walls, millwork and conduct the renovation. The detailed, artistic white-on-white paneling from the foyer was reintroduced with a new custom design in the primary bedroom as an accent wall positioned behind the bed. This millwork here, however, showcases a linear woven effect that is at once both clean and chic in its appeal. This air of minimalist yet cozy, playful style carries throughout the condo, including in its game room (complete with collector’s race car memorabilia), the third bedroom turned library (with its sage-green built-in desk) and into the small, albeit extremely efficient, kitchen. “The owners love to

cook,” says Janeiro. “So, we spent time with them to understand how they use their kitchen, so the new design would be personalized.” The effort was worth it. With the white-andblack scheme flowing throughout, upper and lower cabinets melt into the walls, while extra storage is cleverly packed into the breakfast bar. And, of course, there are elegant touches everywhere, inclusive of Cambria quartz countertops, a black-and-gold-trimmed oven hood, brass hardware and light fixtures, as well as stainless steel appliances.

“It all has pizazz!” says Janeiro. “From the design features that reflect the couple’s sophisticated sensibility to the new curated eye-catching furnishings and art, there is a bold simplicity that makes the space feel open and bright.”

A sophisticated space with a contemporary design in a welcoming environment, complete with comfort and livability were paramount.

Rustic Comfort

This modern farmhouse was an absolute pleasure for designer Lisa Aiken of Terra Firma Design Inc. to renovate and design. Here’s what she told us about the impressive indoor and outdoor rejuvenation.

By Lisa van de Geyn Photography by Birdhouse Media

There’s something romantic and rustic about modern farmhouse style. It truly conjures feelings of comfort and warmth. Clients love it because it maintains a traditional feel but isn’t overly precious or elaborate. Instead, it’s elegant and super comfortable — you can easily picture yourself cozying up by the fireplace with a blanket and a good book. This project features dramatic, primarily black, finishes with a more neutral colour palette, plenty of warm, clean lines and an array of welcoming textures and fabrics that easily evoke a certain sophistication and luxury.

So, it goes without saying that designer Lisa Aiken of Toronto-based firm Terra Firma Design Inc., was beyond chuffed when her long-time clients asked her to tackle their summer home in Mulmur, Ont. The clients have had the farmhouse for many years but had never done a full renovation. “This is a spectacular place. My vision for the property was to create a boutique, luxury resort,” Aiken says. “The homeowners are huge entertainers — they always have guests visiting — and I wanted to create a space as welcoming as the homeowners are.”

The 5,000-square-foot home sits on 75 acres of land, and the homeowners were only too happy to give Aiken free rein when it came to the design and style of the renovation. “My design idea was to bring it all together without having to disturb the original farmhouse. It used to look like a motel with a square roof. It just wasn’t as appealing as it could be,” she says. “So, we started by installing new doors and windows throughout, and what a difference that made. We also did a new roof, we added dormers and built a wraparound porch to create a much more charming aesthetic overall and to give the property a connection from one end to the other and a causeway leading into the pavilion.”

The outdoor pavilion is an absolute marvel. One of the most important must-haves for the homeowner was a fully functional outdoor kitchen, suitable for a master chef, complete with state-of-the-art appliances, a woodburning pizza oven, top end barbecue and the ability to cook absolutely anything they wanted to please friends and family. “Before we came in, the outdoor space was a barbecue on wheels and

a pool that wasn’t heated. It wasn’t the useable space that the homeowners enjoyed and were used to at this property and wasn’t ideal for entertaining in,” she says.

Aiken’s contractor, Andrew Smith, called in their mason to build the massive fireplace, a key feature in the pavilion design, and the softorange timber frames came from a local company. She chose board and batten on the side of the original farmhouse and standing seam on the rest of the farmhouse, all in black. “The black deck came from Quebec and to make it look less like a huge, black space, I included several large planter boxes below the deck line and filled them with white hydrangeas and yews to warm up the area. It turned out really pretty and it’s a cohesive space with lots of sitting areas and limestone, on the floor that matches the wraparound porch.”

Inside, Aiken kept the same feel as the exterior by using striking black couches but including soft neutrals. Not only is there a separate full apartment for the homeowners, there’s also plenty of amenities for guests, including beautifully appointed bedrooms, a billiard room,

scotch room (with a walkout to the wraparound porch), a gym (in what used to be the garage) and luxurious yet relaxing living rooms perfect for having a chat or simply taking in the idyllic surroundings. One charming addition is the collection of books visitors can find in pretty much every room. “The homeowner is an avid reader, as was his father — their books can be found throughout the home. It’s a nice, personal feature,” says Aiken. The original kitchen was updated with new countertops and appliances and was freshly painted but it remains authentic to that farmhouse look and feel. Upstairs there are three bedrooms, each with its own colour palette (blue, yellow and black-and-white rooms). “There is a station in the hallway outside of the bedrooms where visitors who are staying overnight can grab a blanket, a book or a bottle or water. It’s just a small touch but it makes guests feel welcome and at home,” she says.

design detail by

When Edgar Sigal from Chateau Window & Door Systems takes the lead, windows and doors are not afterthoughts — they are integral parts of every home’s ultimate design plan.

By Adriana Ermter Photography by Evios Media

“

It’s all about the details,” says Edgar Sigal, president of Chateau Window & Door Systems. “It’s a critical element in the overall design of a house.”

While true for all the homes Sigal and his team work on, he is, however, specifically referring to a recent project in Toronto’s posh Forest Hill area. Just north of downtown Toronto between St. Clair Avenue and Eglinton Avenue, the former village of midtown is one of the city’s wealthiest and most affluent neighbourhoods, rivalling Rosedale and

The Bridle Path. Home to many prominent entrepreneurs, celebrities, engineers, doctors and lawyers, private homes here range from $5,000,000 to $15,000,000 and are surrounded by high-end retail shops, boutique clothing stores and independent fitness studios. And the new construction Chateau Window & Door Systems was a part of is no exception.

flair with minimalist lines. “It’s not something you’d look at and think that it’s a square box,” adds Sigal. “We made sure that the elements keep in line with the neighbourhood’s prestigious feel.”

These elements, 36 stunning doors and windows to be exact, are Sigal’s specialty. It’s one of the reasons architect Richard Wengle brought Sigal into the fold during the Forest Hill home’s planning phase, empowering him to interact with all of the parties so that each aspect of the design, functionality and budget of the build shared the same vision and were on target. Key aspects included creating open spaces between the living room, family room and kitchen to enable the home’s family to better and more easily connect with one another. Additionally, extending the interior living spaces and merging them with the outdoors were all part of the plan. “We understand what Richard’s vision entails, so that makes things easier

for everyone involved,” says Sigal. “This early collaboration allowed us to recommend windows and doors that meet the design, function and charm for each space.”

There are interconnecting door systems throughout and custom 20-foot wide and eight-foot-high, four-panel oversized pocket doors that opened the downstairs living area directly out and into the backyard’s pool area. So, while all the windows and doors are unique, all share the same cohesive and consistent look and feel, courtesy of the wood and metal materials and hardware Sigal chose for the home.

This is a testament to Sigal’s methodology and his business. With an extensive line of windows and doors crafted by some of the most reputable manufacturers in Europe and North America at his disposal, he’s able to fulfill each client’s vision and provide the

know-how with proper installation, whether it’s retrofitting, full-frame removal or new construction, as he has realized with the Forest Hill home. Beyond the custom designs perfectly suited to the home’s architecture, the workmanship of each window and door will stand the test of time and fulfill the client’s wishes. “We chose these materials for the house design based on what the client and the architect wanted,”

affirms Sigal. “Plus, the exterior windows and doors have the benefit of a no-maintenance finish. We’re known for our longevity of finishes, as well as our 20-year warranty. And because we’re always inspired by our client’s dreams combined with the architect’s realization of them, we’re able to converge polished design and optimal performance in everything we do.”

“BEYOND THE CUSTOM DESIGNS PERFECTLY SUITED TO THE HOME’S ARCHITECTURE, THE WORKMANSHIP OF EACH WINDOW AND DOOR WILL STAND THE TEST OF TIME AND FULFILL THE CLIENT’S WISHES.”

MAGIC practical

This contemporary home is spectacular, and it’s no wonder why. Harvey Wise of Wise Nadel Design created a magnificent home for his clients with the help of some very integral partners. Here, he shows us how to create a perfect family-friendly space that truly sings.

By Lisa van de Geyn Photography by Stephani Buchman

Harvey Wise, one of two principals along with Robin Nadel at Wise Nadel Design in Toronto, is no stranger to collaboration. In fact, his best projects are those that depend on forming strong relationships with clients, architects and builders, then taking that affable teamwork and turning it into a solid partnership.

This perfectly encapsulates the connection Wise had with everyone involved in this stunning Toronto build. Not only did he bond with his clients — empty nesters who were looking to downsize closer to the city core — but Wise also brilliantly worked with colleagues Lorne Rose, architect extraordinaire, and builders Jeffrey and Adam Silverberg of Silverado Custom Homes.

The homeowners of this remarkably contemporary abode are a couple who lived in a very large home in North Toronto. “They were in a huge home on a big property. Their kids have all gotten married and they’re now young, active grandparents who decided to embark on their first build after finding a lot they loved,” says Wise. Their old home was more transitional, with spacious principal rooms and lots of entertaining space. They had a big backyard, complete with swimming pool and mini-putt — it felt like a country club. “It was important for them to bring some of the elements they enjoyed in that home to their new space.”

Yes, this new house would be smaller than their previous residence, but it would also be more contemporary than the transitional space

they had. “It has a soft-modern appeal. I think Lorne Rose did an amazing job in creating a façade that’s very complementary to the neighbourhood. It’s done in flat-cut limestone in a creamy beige-grey with dark metal and has a modern neoclassic feel to it that’s not overbearing. Lorne was also wonderful in that he created a footprint that has the same feel as their other home — a very open space with large principal rooms.”

The house is 4,200 square feet and it’s designed to feel spacious and inviting. Inside, Wise opted for cleaner lines and a more consistent feel. His neutral colour palette, with pops of colour and texture throughout, truly shines. “We kept it simple but luxe. The house is painted in Benjamin Moore Simply White throughout and is done in champagne hues and ivories with natural woods. It’s very ethereal and bright. There’s no crown moulding; it’s very clean with an organic feel,” he explains. “It’s quite modern without feeling cold. Instead, it’s beautifully light.”

One of the most exceptional traits of this house is that it’s done in practical materials — the homeowners wanted a space where they could entertain, as well as enjoy their grandchildren without worrying about damaging floors, countertops, etc. Take the main level — most of the flooring is done in a very maintainable bush-hammered porcelain that looks like a creamy limestone. The design of the kitchen is another perfect case in point. “There’s not a natural surface in the kitchen. The millwork is a combination of wood and solid colour laminates. Even the countertops and backsplash are not natural stone. We covered the stools in a beautiful metallic silver vinyl that can be easily cleaned if the kids make a mess,” he says. “The hero of the space is the steel hood, and I didn’t add a light fixture over the island to keep the lines clean and the focus on the hood.” That’s also the reason he chose fully integrated black appliances that don’t compete with the serene feel. “To think the kitchen is done exclusively in manmade materials is just fabulous. It has a high-end feel but it’s also very durable and useable.”

The iconic breakfast room is without a doubt one of Wise’s favourite spots in the house. There’s a stunning bay window that projects out into the garden and pool. “The room is so filled with light; it’s just an unbelievably beautiful spot. The light fixture is fabulous, and I did custom furniture — the chairs are in an indoor-outdoor fabric, so they’re super family-friendly. It’s such a clean, crisp room and very luxe,” he says passionately. He’s also a fan of the intricately designed family room, which was created around the stone of the fireplace. “I fell in love with it. I even used the same stone in my own backyard. It’s full of greys, blues and creams and it’s magnificent. It works perfectly with the contemporary cream sectional and the indigo chairs.” Upstairs, the principal bedroom is reminiscent of a relaxing

We kept it simple but luxe.

hotel suite. Wise panelled the wall behind the bed in a warm soft grey with a custom-built wingback headboard. “This bedroom is one of the most beautiful, serene, inviting spaces. It truly feels like a contemporary high-end hotel. The ensuite is also done in durable materials — the countertops are porcelain but look like marble. “There are just so many moments that are incredible in this house. For people who love contemporary homes, there’s so much eye candy. It’s tasteful and really turned out well,” says Wise. Building and designing this house was an experience Wise will never forget. “We worked on it during the darkest days of COVID and it turned out spectacularly. It was a wonderful collaboration and everyone on the team was hands on and worked closely with us,” he recalls. “What the clients got was a spacious house that recreates the essence of their beloved previous home. They are over the moon and can’t thank us enough. That’s the biggest reward. I’m the happiest when my clients call me and tell me how much they love their home.”

HIDE HOUSE

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THE MARKET

With such a beautiful open-concept space, these stunning views make it easy to unwind. Come check out our new location!

Chateau Window & Door Systems 170 Tycos Drive, North York chateauwindows.com, 416-783-3916

Wood/Aluminum: Introducing a wide and innovative range of top-quality wood/aluminum windows and doors to Ontario’s more discerning architects, builders and homeowners, who are seeking the ultimate in performance, aesthetic appeal, environmental awareness and sheer luxury, but at realistic prices.

EUROSTAR WINDOWS & DOORS

55 Administration Road, Unit 22-24, Concord eurostarwindows.ca, 416-633-5921

The New Z10: With a touch of a button, prepare authentic and trendy coffee drinks such as espresso, latte macchiato and flat white. Say hello to your personal barista. Coffee pleasure — freshly ground, not capsuled. Jura is the leader in producing superautomatic specialty coffee machines.

JURA 115 Matheson Boulevard East, Mississauga. ca.jura.com/en 905-501-8600

DARLENE JANEIRO DESIGN

92A Dunn Street, Oakville darlenejaneirodesign.com 905-339-8118

Dressed in cream Boucle, the Mezzo Chair has timeless appeal. The split backrest refers to the mid-century modern design while adding a playful accent to the piece.

Dimensions: 29.53”Wx28.74”Dx28.54”H

RIGHT IMAGE: Industrial Age: This magnificent and complicated design was inspired by the tools and machineries of the Industrial Revolution. Made with the finest handspun wool and natural silk.

LEFT MAGE: Inception: This modern geometric design was inspired by architectural drawings. Made with the finest handspun wool and natural silk.

WEAVERS ART 1400 Castlefield Avenue, Toronto weaversart.com 416-929-7929

Essence Hexagon Parquet: Brand-new product! We have a 10,000-square-foot showroom, a designer lounge and conference room, and we’ve installed virtual room kiosks to help customers with their flooring decisions. We have knowledgeable staff on hand qualified to answer any of your questions.

FIRST CLASS FLOORING

10 Marmac Drive, Etobicoke firstclassflooring.ca 416-740-6183

Made from cast aluminum, this custom metal door is composed of interlacing and overlapping squares, which flow continuously throughout the design. The symmetrical and straight-line pattern remains consistent from the metal door to the custom staircase, creating one seamless entrance design.

ART BOULLE

7250 Keele Street Unit 41 & 42, Concord artboulle.com 905-878-6833

AMISCO - New Designer Bar Stools. Be creative, design your bar stools to your taste. Select a seat style with your choice of fabric, leather or birch wood finishes. All seat styles come in a variety of fabrics, leather and birch wood finishes with wood or cast-iron legs. Enhance your home entertaining with your custom-designed bar stools. We are showing only two designs that can be manufactured from your design selections. Many samples of our exclusive designer bar stools are now on display in our furniture gallery.

Join our VIP Club at hidehouse.ca and get a 15% discount on Canadian-made leather furniture! Save hundreds of dollars now! Come see it at the Hide House, the largest leather fashion and leather furniture store in Canada.

It’s Worth The Drive To Acton!

HIDE HOUSE

49 Eastern Avenue, Acton, hidehouse.ca, 1-877-453-2843

Sofa Bed Milchbar Beige; product 80900: Small apartment? No problem. During the day you can relax comfortably on the sofa bed. In the evening, Milchbar Beige simply turns into a cozy bed with pocket spring upholstery. The backrest can easily be folded back in the blink of an eye, and the armrests can be removed easily. Also suitable for overnight guests, the sofa bed is not only practical, but with its casual retro charm, striking quilting and slim, black-lacquered legs, it is also a real visual highlight.

Measures (H/W/D): 32.7” x 86.2” x 33.5”

KARE

225 Lakeshore Road East, Oakville kare-toronto.com, 905-842-6273

Opal System: Featuring Komandor’s versatile Opal doors. Available in white, black or aluminum finish with clear, frosted and painted glass, mirror or wood-panel inserts. Stylish way to showcase your favourite items or hide the mess. Our designers can customize the cabinet to fit your needs. Contact us to find out more.

KOMANDOR

863 Rangeview Road, Mississauga komandor.ca, 416-251-0880

Looking to revamp your outdoor living space? You can easily repaint or stain your existing outdoor patio furniture in a weekend. Come check us out in store for more information.

VILLAGE PAINT & WALLPAPER

4949 Dundas Street West, Etobicoke, 416-231-2831 villagepaintwindowcoverings.ca the

TIA: Inspired by the geometric forms of the late 1970s, the Tia bench exudes bespoke character – sleek and openly luxurious. Crafted in solid bronze accentuated in gold, and flaunting its exquisite, bolstered seat, which accentuates Tia’s impressive, sculptured design.

The JF Digital Collection Search…Share…Order Memos…all at your fingertips!

JF FABRICS

2610 Sheridan Garden Drive, Oakville, jffabrics.com 905-491-3900

Modern Adirondack Chair: A modern take of the classic Adirondack. With its custom moulded arms, contoured back and sleek profile, you don’t have to sacrifice comfort for a striking, modern design.

GENERAL PRODUCTS INC. 160 East Beaver Creek Road, Richmond Hill gppatio.com, 905-709-1162

Piccolo Counter: Comes with a high-grade cordierite stone floor, designed specifically for this type of oven. These floors heat up much quicker compared to the traditional firebrick backing stones. More heat retention = Less wood. At La Piazza Wood Ovens, we take pride and passion to another level!

LA PIAZZA lapiazzawoodovens.com 1-877-757-2267

Representing more than 60 international artists including world-renowned glass artist, Dale Chihuly.

SANDRA AINSLEY GALLERY 100 Sunrise Avenue, Unit 150, Toronto sandraainsleygallery.com 416-214-9490

Hayden MacRae Dancing Silks 28.5H x 11W x 3.5D”

Lipkowitz Publisher

For kids’ jackets, Heavenly Denim uses fluorescent and reflective materials. Kids’ safety is paramount, so making tots visible at all times was important.

BLUE JEAN BABY

Toronto’s new brand, Heavenly Denim, is a must-shop for some of the chicest denim pieces we’ve seen.

It took more than 300 hours to make the Pearls jacket because each pearl is sewn on one at a time. This stunning number uses different sizes of pearls for a unique effect. It can be customized with fewer petals and names can be included.

Delicate blue pearls and sumptuous lace adorn this jacket, which took more than 200 hours to create.

This crystalized flower jacket features high-end Swarovski crystals and hot crystals, which create a spectacularly sparkly effect. It took more than 200 hours to create this stunning item.

We love the mirrored effect this jacket offers. Used crystal was added to add more volume and sparkle.

Heavenly Denim just launched this summer, and the brand is set to make a splash in Toronto’s fashion scene. Focusing on customized, one-of-a-kind denim jackets for people of all sizes, the company’s founders, Gregoriane Minot and Maret Kendra, say interested customers can get in touch with their team via Instagram @heavenly.denim or via their website heavenlydenim.com for custom orders.

Jennifer

PHOTO OF MIRRORED AND FRINGE JACKET PHOTOGRAPHY BY SAGAJ @SAGAJ, PHOTO OF FLORAL JACKET PHOTOGRAPHY BY GALINA DEINEGA @GALINADEINEGAPHOTOGRAPHY , PHOTO OF KIDS’ JACKETS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY @LIVEPIXELPHOTOGRAPHY, PHOTO WITH GREGO AND MARET PHOTOGRAPHY BY @LIVEPIXELPHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO WITH GREGO PHOTOGRAPHY BY ELENA GLIOSCA @LIVEPIXELSPHOTOGRAPHY

Who doesn’t love a good jean jacket?

WELCOME TO YOUR NEW BACKYARDTM

GATES, DOORS, STAIRCASES,