Living Luxe Magazine - Kitchen & Bath 23 • VOL. 05 - ISSUE 02

THE HEIGHT OF CULINARY CULTURE

CHEF DANIEL BOULUD

The Michelin-Starred chef and restaurateur dishes about his food and his legacy

BEHIND CLOSED DOORS

Flawlessly designed bathrooms by the incomparable Lori Morris

EXTRAORDINARY ESTATE

Inside a palatial abode that’s engaging, inviting, warm and comforting

e Bold & e Beautiful

The newest rugs to join our Modern Art collection are Amalfi 79, Amalfi 80, & Persia 435. These modern abstract designs are hand-knotted in a dimensional texture with high-energy explosions of color. They are woven with the traditional Tibetan weaving technique, using the highest quality Silkette fibers. During the finishing process, they have been hand-carved to impart special high-low textural effects.

“A beautiful space starts from the ground up with a weavers art…”

– Michael Pourvakil

Amalfi 79 – Blues, Multi in pure silkette

Amalfi 80 – Blue Tones, Merlot in pure silkette

Persia 435 – Vintage Grey , Multi in pure silkette

No matter what the indulgence, your flooring will truly make your space a sanctuary worth coming home to.

Light up stunning pieces your home with

Star Round Dining Table

Danis Credenza

DEsIGN

ARE YOU READY FOR THIS YEARS SHOW?

COMING SPRING 2024

LIVINGLUXE

LIVING LUXE DESIGN SHOW

AN EPIC SPACE FOR EXHIBITORS TO SHOWCASE THEIR LATEST DESIGNS AND INNOVATIONS IN THE INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR DESIGN SPACE MIXED WITH A FASHION FLARE.

PRESENTED

BY

An obsession with quality has been the hallmark of The Watford since its inception. A new classic in bespoke luxury living in the prestigious neighbourhood of Richmond Hill. A private gated community of elegantly appointed residences, featuring “The Penthouse Collection” exclusively styled and furnished in Ralph Lauren Home. Encompassing inimitable walled gardens, serene rooftop green space, and grand private terraces. These homes, offer exceptional living experiences with state-of-the-art luxuries and traditional touches, including large-scale windows that bathe the finely curated interiors in an abundance of natural light. A live-in porter, twenty-four-hour on-site concierge, personal valet service and gold-standard security.

Discover the heritage, innovation and pioneering craftsmanship that make

Illustrations are artist’s concept. Brokers Protected. All rights reserved. The Watford™

A LEGACY OF ARCHITECTURAL BRILLIANCE NESTLED IN TORONTO, CANADA

An obsession with quality has been the hallmark of The Watford since its inception. A new classic in bespoke luxury living in the prestigious neighbourhood of Richmond Hill. A private gated community of elegantly appointed residences, featuring “The Penthouse Collection” exclusively styled and furnished in Ralph Lauren Home. Encompassing inimitable walled gardens, serene rooftop green space, and grand private terraces. These homes, offer exceptional living experiences with state-of-the-art luxuries and traditional touches, including large-scale windows that bathe the finely curated interiors in an abundance of natural light. A live-in porter, twenty-four-hour on-site concierge, personal valet service and gold-standard security.

Discover the heritage, innovation and pioneering craftsmanship that make The Watford the landmark it is today.

Welcome to your legacy.

FOR THOSE WHO LIVE BEAUTIFULLY.

seen throughout the entire city. With breathtaking vistas from every room overlooking the lush

“A

9 67 967

To experien ce the Collect ions visit one of our exclusive sh owrooms

DOWNSVIEW KITCHENS GTA

2635 Rena Road, Mississauga, ON (905) 677-9354 www downsviewkitchens com

YORKVILLE DESIGN CENTRE

87 Avenue Road, Toronto, ON (416) 922-6620 www yorkvilledesigncentre ca

DOWNSVIEW KITCHENS 2635 Rena Road, Mississauga, Ontario

The Downsview cabinetr y collection is custom crafted in Nor th America and available exclusively through select kitchen design showrooms

The Art Of Surgery

Dr. Philip Solomon

OTOLARYNGOLOGISTHEAD & NECK SURGEON PRACTICING IN FACIAL PLASTIC SURGERY

No one has sold more luxury real estate in this decade than Barry Cohen Estates. * The reason is obvious. In addition to our unmatched negotiation skills, we provide the greatest exposure for your home. By utilizing the very latest in print and online marketing strategies, enhanced by our exclusive international affiliations, more local and foreign buyers see our homes. Simply put, we do more for our clients than our competition. The proof is in the numbers.

#1 in Toronto For Homes $3,000,000 - 35,000,000, since 2008*

Toronto’s Leader In Luxury

20,323 SF ESTATE ABUTTING MAGNA G.C.

PALATIAL HIGH POINT MANSION

ICONIC BRIDLE PATH BUNGALOW

BARRY COHEN President/Broker

Unmatched Global Reach

We are proud to be the exclusive representative of Forbes Global Properties, for the GTA and Cottage Country, the worldwide residential real estate partner of Forbes. No other luxury real estate platform has the global reach, credibility, or media power of Forbes, allowing us to reach 190 million people monthly, in 70 di erent countries and 27 languages.

Every project is completely customizable from our cabinet interiors to the external materials and finishes. We have in-house designers to help bring your project into reality.

If you are a homeowner looking to build your dream kitchen or an architect, builder or designer looking for someone to execute your projects, please give us a call or send us an email.

431 CARLINGVIEW DR | ETOBICOKE, ONTARIO

TEL 647.998.3148 | FLEXWOOD.CA

ESTABLISHED IN 1990 FOR OVER 30 YEARS, WE HAVE SPECIALIZED IN BESPOKE CABINETRY AND FURNITURE.

THIS HOUSE IS HOME

Raglan house is home. Home to a $4 Billion master-planned neighborhood constructed by one of Toronto’s top developers. Home to a 3-minute walk to the subway and a 5-minute walk to Loblaws. Home to a charming urban community that’s surrounded by parks, ravines, trails, and greenspaces. Home to transit, any direction you want to go. And home to where several desirable neighbourhoods come together. This is your homebase to the best of it all.

3 minutes

HEAD OFFICE: 635 Oster Lane. Unit 12,13,14,15. Concord

SHOWROOM: 7250 Keele St. Unit 214. Concord

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @LUXEMEKITCHENS www.luxemekitchens.com info@luxemekitchens.com

We are recognized in North America for our custom cabinetry and millwork. We create luxurious kitchens, vanities, walk-in closets and more.

We are inspired by the unique vision of each client for their dream home. With the convergence of polished design and optimal performance, you will find what you need with us.

Inspire Create Perform

AN ICONIC KITCHEN

PG.164

THE ART OF HAUTE CUISINE

PG.122

THE AGENCY HAS ARRIVED IN TORONTO WEST & YORK REGION

We are thrilled to debut our Toronto West and York Region locations of international real estate brokerage, The Agency. Having built an unmatched global following, The Agency is revolutionizing real estate and connecting global markets with its modern, collaborative approach to the business. Our teams combine boutique, local services with the vast international reach of a renowned brand. We are one connected, global community and our clients benefit from the shared knowledge, resources, and expertise of the entire team.

THE BRONZE AGE

ON THE COVER

Chef Daniel Boulud

Photography by Natasha Gerschon

Styled by Jenna Bitove-Naumovich

Grooming by Victoria De Sousa

Photography venue: Four Seasons Hotel Toronto

JENNIFER DOUGLAS

LIVING LUXE CREATIVE DIRECTOR

“I’ve never had open shelving before, and I’d love it! It really breaks up wall-to-wall cabinetry, it adds warmth to the space and it offers a great place to add some personality in the kitchen.”

TARIQ DARWISH

CAVA SURFACES SALES MANAGER

“My must-haves for the kitchen are natural stone countertops and a natural stone backsplash. Double waterfalls on an island are also a must.”

LORI MORRIS

DESIGNER

“The kitchen is the most used piece of real estate in the house, and you want it to be as beautiful as the rest of your home, so my must-have is a concealed prep space or room within the kitchen where the mess of life can be hidden from plain view.”

ADRIANA ERMTER

WRITER

“I am currently planning on redesigning my kitchen! So, my must-have is finding a brilliant contractor and designer with condo experience. Despite knowing what I want and what I like, this is not my wheelhouse.”

PUBLISHING

PUBLISHER

Jennifer Lipkowitz

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER

Anthony Sirianni

ASSISTANT TO THE PUBLISHER

Hana Rakovski

DIGITAL SPECIALIST

Eugene Leiderman

VIDEOGRAPHER

Frazier de Mesa

CONTRIBUTORS

Jenna Bitove-Naumovich, Adriana Ermter, Natasha Koifman, Silvana Longo, Tara MacIntosh, Francine Mbvoumbo, Rachel Naud, Libby Wildman

CREATIVE

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Jennifer Douglas

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Aldwin Oliveros

EDITORIAL

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Lisa van de Geyn

LIFESTYLE EDITOR

Jeanne Beker

jura.com

Sunnier Days to Come

I hope my letter finds you well. It’s finally getting warmer and feeling like spring, and I’m so excited to get outside for walks and enjoy the fresh air. As I write this, I’m busy planning a vacation to Orlando with my children — we are all looking forward to family time at Disney World. I was seven years old the last time I went to Disney, and I can’t wait to see it through my kids’ eyes.

This issue is very special to us, as our Kitchen & Bath edition is released just once a year. I know you’ll enjoy reading about all the luxe kitchens and bathrooms we’ve showcased throughout the magazine — the designers we feature never cease to amaze me. I am also proud of our first collaboration with Steven Branco, the publisher of View the Vibe. We became fast friends and created a story about 20 of our favourite restaurants in Toronto. I am beyond grateful to have worked together on this piece (you can find it on page 102) and be sure to check out View the Vibe’s coverage at viewthevibe.com.

We’ve definitely been busy here at Living Luxe. We were proud to be the media sponsor of the Wellspring Cancer Support Well Dressed for Spring Fashion Show, presented in collaboration with Holt Renfrew, which was held in March. The heartwarming event was emceed by my friend and Living Luxe lifestyle editor Jeanne Beker, and you can read about this wonderful evening in our Summer issue. We have also been working on our second annual City Couture event in support of SickKids, which will be held in November. This event will be held in conjunction with the Living Luxe Design Expo, and I’m so excited to share that we have fabulous award-winning designers lined up for the event who will create one-of-akind experiences you won’t want to miss. We’ll be sharing information on our social media @livingluxemagazine as details are finalized.

As always, the team and I thank you for all your continued support. See you in the next issue,

Jennifer Lipkowitz Publisher

Artwork created by Jennifer’s child.

Memories of a Vintage Bathroom

In last year’s Kitchen & Bath issue, I told you all about my grandmother’s pink-and-turquoise kitchen — her house in North York’s Bathurst Manor neighbourhood was built in 1955 and she lived there for more than 57 years. I talked about Bubby Ann’s pink nook and bright turquoise cabinets, the lazy Susan in the corner cupboard that I used to play with and my favourite part of the space — her Moulin Rouge wallpaper I insatiably studied every time we visited.

At the end of my letter, I told you I’d share details about her very 1960’s bathroom — the only one on the main floor of her three-bedroom bungalow — in this year’s Kitchen & Bath issue, so here goes.

The thing I remember most about that bathroom, at the end of the hall next to the three bedrooms, was the pink. (And I don’t mean the unbelievably perfect pink in one of my favourite Lori Morris-designed bathrooms we’re featuring on page 132 — that room is beyond magnificent.) This pink was darker, smokier and rosier, not the blush hue that Lori so flawlessly incorporates in her spaces. My grandmother’s walls were done in big pink tiles) and the medicine cabinet above the toilet was the same colour. It wasn’t just the pink that I recall, though — there was a fair amount of grey, too. Not only were the tiny square-shaped floor tiles a light-to-medium grey, but so were the toilet, sink and bathtub. The countertop was black, but it had a white-and-pink boomerang pattern (matching the pattern on her kitchen countertops). She always had glass canisters and fancy glass bowls on the counter filled with cotton balls and decorative soaps that older ladies seem to relish. She also had lots of mini-perfume bottles — they’re now on the counter in my ensuite. The highlight of the room was the vanity. It was long and pink with embellishments on the drawers and, if I’m not mistaken, a pop of gold here and there. There were a ton of drawers (with ornate hardware), but I only ever opened the top ones, where she kept her lipsticks and pretty compacts.

Like her kitchen (or the rest of her bungalow, for that matter), her bathroom wasn’t really sophisticated or meticulously designed like the incredible spaces we’re featuring in our annual Kitchen & Bath issue, but it didn’t matter. It had lots of personality and was uniquely Bubby Ann. She would’ve been 100 years old in June, so I’m extra proud to share a little piece of her with you.

See you next time,

Lisa van de Geyn Editor-in-Chief

INTERIOR SPACE AND DOOR DESIGNED BY FERRIS RAFAULI

LUXE LIFE PHILANTHROPY — FASHION — TRENDS

The Dolce Vita sofa is a timeless statement piece that commands attention and adds character to living rooms and dens. With its unique shape and texture, it’s sure to become the focal point of any space. Featuring channel-tufted seating for a classic look, and a stunning diamondquilted back for added sophistication, the sofa is finished with a gold metal base for a touch of modern elegance. We love its modern, timeless vibe. decorium.com

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALEX LUKEY. (BOTTOM IMAGE) , PHOTOGRAPHY BY GILLIAN JACKSON (TOP IMAGE), PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF DECORIUM (RIGHT IMAGE)

WHAT’S NEW

By Silvana Longo

Come On, Get Happy

What makes our lives meaningful and rewarding? The answer to this age-old question is revealed in the latest book that compiles the longest scientific study of happiness ever conducted. Backed by extraordinary research from the Harvard Study of Adult Development and packed with actionable advice, The Good Life (by Dr. Robert Waldinger and Marc Schulz) shows us how we can make our lives happier and more meaningful through our connections to others. It turns out that the strength of our relationships can predict the health of both our bodies and brains as we go through life. Relationships in all their forms — friendships, romantic partnerships, families, coworkers, tennis partners, book club members, you name it — all contribute to a happier, healthier life. simonandschuster.ca

Pretty & Playful in the Kitchen

Wuxly Makes a Splash

Wuxly, the sustainable Canadian outerwear brand, entered the rainwear category this spring with the launch of their first-ever rainwear collection. Known for naming their pieces after popular Toronto neighbourhoods, meet the new Riverside trench.

Hibiscus, a vivid shade of fuchsia with a matte finish, was selected by KitchenAid as its 2023 Colour of the Year. With this fabulous selection, the brand continues to spark inspiration and used its Colour of the Year pick to comment on global trends and culture while inspiring those in the kitchen. Hibiscus is right on the pulse of colour temperature this year — Pantone chose Viva Magenta and Benjamin Moore selected Raspberry Blush. We also love the shade, and KitchenAid’s Artisan stand mixer and blender are pretty pieces that would look fabulous on any countertop. kitchenaid.ca collection.

Whether you’re hiking, paddling or just singing in the rain, the new Tri-Seasonal Tech Shell offers a shield against the elements with an extra layer of warmth when you need it. Upholding their commitment to best and equitable practices that uplift the planet and its people, Wuxly’s Tech Shell exterior is made from 100-percent recycled polyester from postconsumer plastic bottles and the interior liner is 42-percent recycled polyester. wuxly.com

Get Into the Groove

Got a sweet tooth?

Groove Chocolate founder Rebecca Grima launched the sustainably sourced, gluten-free brand in November 2020. “I was inspired to start Groove because I believe if you are going to eat chocolate, you should eat amazing chocolate!”

Equating the chocolate-eating experience with feelings of joy, Grima decided Groove was going to let you indulge with a premium Belgian chocolate made in Canada with natural ingredients, less sugar and no preservatives. Grima’s delectable bars currently come in five flavours: milk chocolate, dark chocolate, dark chocolate sea salt, milk chocolate infused with orange and peanut butter milk chocolate — our favourite so far.

@groovechocolate

NKPR MARKET TRENDS

Natasha Koifman President, NKPR

IN VOGUE

In her latest column, NKPR president

Natasha Koifman shares a selection of her favourite buzzworthy products and services designed to make life prettier, easier and happier.

By Natasha Koifman

Kitchens and bathrooms are spaces we use for energy and rejuvenation. From modern-tech appliances and designer surfaces to innovative smart kitchens, there are countless ways to transform your home into the perfect abode.

And while it’s important to have well-designed rooms, being mindful of what to keep inside those rooms is equally paramount. Here are several trending products, whether you’re renovating your home, upgrading your space or looking to stock the shelves with something savoury or fragrant.

rooms, being mindful of what to keep inside version and a variable temperature version for the

Pulp from SS Tile and Stone

SMEG Electric Tea Kettle

Mid-century style with modern features, SMEG kettles come in two variations: a regular on/off version and a variable temperature version for the true tea aficionado. (Mini-Kettles are also available.) This stunning countertop appliance comes in a variety of colours, including the decorative “Sicily is My Love” collaboration with Dolce&Gabbana. smeg.com/ca-en

Inspired by Arabescato marble for floors and walls, these HD digital coloured porcelain tiles are expressed in five chromatic variations: black, gold, red, green and blue. Specially imported from Italy to SS Tile & Stone in the Greater Toronto Area, Pulp comes in polished, matte-brushed and lightly hammered finishes. sstileandstone.ca

Cire Trudon Candles

Cire Trudon is a luxury candle brand from France that has been producing high-quality artisanal candles since 1643, hand-dripped and poured into rich Tuscan glass. Solis Rex is inspired by scents of the Château de Versailles; Abd El Kader evokes the invigorating scent of Moroccan mint tea; and Ernesto is a blend of leather and tobacco. Find these and more evocative scents at ShopNK. shopnk.ca

Purplesful Snacking

Purplesful Snacking checks all the boxes of a healthy snack: organic, gluten-free, non-GMO and plant-based. Plus, the company is a purpose-first brand with a mission to support kids in underprivileged communities — they donate 25 percent of profits to charity partners in Canada. Available in Sea Salt and Plant-Based Cheddar at your favourite grocery stores. purplesful.com

Pusateri’s A quality extra virgin olive oil is vital to every great kitchen. If you are cooking, dressing or dipping, Pusateri’s Extra Virgin Olive Oil is rich, creamy and delicately balances the aromas of fig leaf and the taste of fresh herbs.

pusateris.com

Lanterra Developments’ 47-storey high-rise condominium at 263 Adelaide Street West in Toronto features smart kitchens designed by Studio Munge that optimize space with sleek flip-down tables-to-desks and a hidden pantry that slides out as storage or bar space. A few simple moves transform the kitchen into a working or entertaining space. natasharesidences.com

Natasha The Residences Smart Kitchens

RUNWAY ROMANCE

By Jenna Bitove-Naumovich

Balmain has been a staple designer in The Room at Hudson’s Bay for almost 30 years, and there’s always been something effortlessly cool about the brand. Known for its rock-and-roll vibe, Balmain has maintained a loyal following season after season. Their fit is unmistakable, with strong constructed shoulders, detailed nipped-in waists and exaggerated bottom lengths.

Olivier Rousteing, who has been designing for the Balmain house for more than 10 years, starts the spring/ summer collection with Egypt-inspired styles: think pyramids and animal prints, such as tiger stripes and leopard spots, prevalent in beautiful dresses, blazers, cardigans and skirts. Of course, it wouldn’t be Balmain without the hints of gold that are found throughout the line as well. The designer also incorporates royal-blue distressed tweed sets and open-work macramé cream-toned dresses, which have a mummy-like wrapped appearance. Neutral tones play a big role in many of the pieces.

For the runway, Rousteing dramatizes a rebirth of artistic prints. The collection is breathtaking, with sky-and-angel-printed motifs on beautiful silks, linens and mesh-like dresses. There’s also a focus on lavenders, pastels and soft nudes. Balmain’s ever-so-angelic collection is truly the most romantic way to start building your summer wardrobe.

BELOW: This Balmain sky-and angel-print bag is a true collectible. Both the handbag and tote are available this season. We love the iconic gold “B,” which represents Maison Balmain.

Jenna Bitove-Naumovich in Balmain tiger-knit top with gold lurex striping and matching mini-skirt. Paris Texas faux snake cowboy boots.

Maison Balmain’s highly anticipated spring/summer collection is full of sophistication and dreamy allure. Here are some of our favourite pieces, perfect for the season.

Portrait by Natasha Gerschon

Hair by Tony Pham

Makeup by Jessica Savedra

Set design by Helen Krispis

Jenna Bitove-Naumovich

Contributing Fashion Editor

LEFT: The Balmain pink quilted-leather logo bag with gold hardware is a fun way to brighten up your wardrobe. Balmain handbags are beautifully crafted; and this shade gives major summer vibes.

BELOW: This Balmain classic one-button blazer in the sky-andangel print is a must-have. Balmain is known for its beautiful cut on blazers. (PSA: If you don’t have a Balmain blazer, now is the time to invest. They are truly timeless pieces.) The defined waist and the cut across the shoulders draw the eye to all the right places. This gorgeous jacket is finished off with a corset that laces up the back of the arms.

LEFT: If you have a special occasion this summer (or you’re a bride-to-be wanting to err on the side of being more trendy than classic), this creamcoloured macramé mini-dress is the dress for you. It’s very “bohemian goddess on a safari.” Whether paired back with delicate strappy sandals or chunky buckled motorcycle boots, it really has all the right fashion elements you want in your wardrobe this summer.

RIGHT: Pink is always a classic — you can’t go wrong with the shade. This satin platform sandal — with super-fun high heels — will make any ensemble more exciting.

RIGHT: We love this tweed bustier top and matching skirt. Lilac is really popluar this season, and this soft pastel set offers the perfect level of fashion and sophistication. Balmain, always known for its signature gold buttons, makes this corset and miniskirt a timeless combo.

LEFT: A denim mini-dress is always a must. The all-over denim trend is still going strong and this Balmain logo-printed mini-dress is the perfect pop-onand-go piece.

LEFT: Balmain’s iconic logo cardigan jacket and leggings take a departure this season from the usual black print. We’re loving the tan-and-white option. This neutral set can go from day to evening effortlessly.

TOP: These boots are a major wow — they’re a specialty item this season. These soft leather fold-over boots go to the knee, and when put on, they have a bit of a slouchy appearance. The sky-and-angels print make them absolutely irresistible.

TOP: There’s nothing like this cream tweed frayed Balmain bomber jacket — it’s definitely a departure from the more traditional bomber styles. This one has a sexy low V neckline, and the tweed offers a classy and chic look.

Jenna Bitove-Naumovich in Balmain cobaltblue leather motorcycle jacket, sky-print mesh dress, logo sock boots in taupe with logo pouch handbag.

ASKED & ANSWERED

Dr. Philip Solomon MD, FRCSC, Otolaryngology, Head and Neck

Surgeon, practicing Facial Plastic Surgery in Toronto, has been in practice for more than 20 years, and, in that time, thousands of patients have come to him with clever, thought-provoking and inspiring questions. We wanted to share some of these FAQs, so we asked the doctor to share some of the best queries he’s received over the years.

By Dr. Philip Solomon & Nancie Heiber

What’s the difference between facial cosmetic and facial reconstructive surgery?

Dr. Solomon: Cosmetic procedures are elective procedures sought out by people looking to enhance their face, address aging concerns or modify genetically inherited anatomical issues. These procedures are optional and can certainly affect patients’ self-esteem and confidence and enhance their appearance. Reconstructive procedures aim to restore form and function to features that have experienced trauma, complications from a previous surgery or have congenital deformities. All facial surgery has both cosmetic and reconstructive elements.

Dr. Philip Solomon MD, FRCSC

How should I select a surgeon? What should I be looking for?

Dr. Solomon: You definitely want to do your research and choose a surgeon who is experienced in the procedure you are interested in. There’s a common rule of thumb I share with patients: One becomes an expert or master in their area of work after working 10,000 hours. This rings true for surgeries, so finding a surgeon who performs a procedure routinely may also be more experienced with varied anatomy and be better equipped to handle complications that may arise during procedures.

What questions should I ask during our consultation?

Dr. Solomon: Asking the right questions is important. I always recommend patients come in with their list of questions, so they have them at their fingertips. We provide a fair bit of information during the consultation, so having a list can ensure we cover all their concerns. Often, by the time a patient meets the surgeon, they have already done considerable research, so they are quite knowledgeable about the procedure. We then assess the patient and explain how we could address their concerns and ensure our goals for the surgical outcome align. We provide our patients with a very comfortable forum for open dialogue in consultation and throughout the entire process.

How do I know if I’m a good candidate for the procedure I’m considering?

Dr. Solomon: The consultation is intended to help determine if a patient is a good candidate for their desired surgery. We review the patient’s goals to ensure we can achieve them based on their anatomy. We also assess their mental and physical health to ensure they are fit for surgery and the recovery period required. We are looking for patients who we can help and make happy, so patient selection is just as important on our end as it is for a patient to choose the right surgeon.

What is the process after I schedule my surgery?

Dr. Solomon: We have an exceptional team of nurses and patient-care specialists to support and educate our patients prior to and following surgery. I’m always available as well. We ensure our patients are well-informed prior to surgery, knowing what to anticipate on the day of surgery and what to expect post-surgery. Two weeks before surgery, we meet with our patients to review the treatment plan in detail to ensure we have the same vision for the projected outcome, and to address any additional questions or concerns.

I’m quite nervous — can I be asleep during my procedure? Which procedures are patients awake for?

Dr. Solomon: Surgeries that are less invasive, such as a lip lift or upper blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery), can be performed while the patient is awake. We use local anesthesia to numb the treatment site, which is typically enough to keep patients comfortable. However, if a patient is very anxious, we do offer general anesthesia.

For more invasive procedures, such as a rhinoplasty, chin implant or facelift, we prefer our patients be asleep to ensure they are comfortable, as these procedures can be more painful if awake. At my private surgical facility, we do offer both IV sedation (used in colonoscopy) and general anesthesia as options, depending on the surgery.

How can I minimize bruising or swelling after surgery?

We provide our patients with a list of tips to help reduce bruising and swelling. We recommend they sleep elevated for the first few days, drink plenty of fluids, avoid blood-thinning medications prior to and post-surgery, and we also suggest minimizing alcohol and tobacco/ cannabis. Arnica supplements and pineapple juice can also help reduce inflammation.

Are any procedures covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) or my private health insurance?

Dr. Solomon: Some insurance companies have recently started covering facial feminization surgery, which is extremely helpful to patients who are transitioning. They typically provide a limit per year that can be used for facial feminization.

The Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) covers certain nasal procedures for breathing and trauma. They also cover certain congenital abnormalities. Some of these procedures, such as cleft lip and palate and otoplasty, are initiated under the Ministry’s health plan when patients are young. OHIP is an insurance company and has limited coverage for certain procedures that may be deemed cosmetic in nature. Your surgeon will have to determine if your insurance is partially insured or not insured by OHIP.

Dr. Philip Solomon MD, FRCSC

READY TO GET NOTICED?

LIVINGLUXEEXHIBITION.CA

PRESENTED BY

Francine Mbvoumbo Contributing Philanthropy Editor

BRIDGING THE GENERATION GAP

By Francine Mbvoumbo

My parents had lofty dreams for my education that led me to the University of Ottawa — at the time, a foreign place far away from the cocoon I had known for 19 years in my home country of Cameroon in Africa. Daunting? Certainly. But I knew I was ready and determined to thank them for all their sacrifices to afford me this luxury, and I was ready to make them proud.

The words uttered by my biological mother before starting my journey to the unknown would shape my quest to build a strong support system. She said, “Open up to people and be wise.” After university, I gravitated toward learning from mature, experienced women and we organically developed a mentoring relationship. It wasn’t until I moved to Toronto to pursue my career and obtain my MBA that I undertook the bold step of moving out of my comfort zone by launching myself into community work. This is where I observed that the wisdom I had acquired from my biological mother, female mentors and my spiritual mothers had started to manifest itself, and self-development, welcoming discomfort and practicing selflessness became guiding principles. I was determined to share the lessons learned with my peers, to encourage them to step out of their comfort zones and

reach out to more experienced women to further develop themselves. I chose to achieve this by creating a platform where intergenerational knowledge transfer would happen organically.

Perhaps poet Maya Angelou said it best: “When you learn, teach, when you get, give.” This became the leading thought and guiding principle of building the Mothers to Daughters (M2D) community. It is incumbent upon me to pass on the knowledge I have acquired to future generations of women to create a better tomorrow, and I’m doing it one conversation at a time.

As the chair and president of the organization, I started Mothers to Daughters to pay homage to my biological mother and the female mentors and spiritual mothers who went out of their way to share their wisdom with me. Since its inception in March 2020, our not-for-profit open community has been creating an education-focused platform where women (including individuals who identify as women) from a multitude of generations, cultures, races and backgrounds can find a support system in each other. Intergenerational inclusion and engagement are key concepts — we are bridging the gap of lived experience between women among generations. M2D offers two flagship programs — Legacy

Building (which is an apprenticeship program tailored for women seeking personal, career or business advice) and Guiding Lights (which is tailored for female newcomers to help them integrate into the workforce and business landscape in Canada).

M2D would not exist without the unconditional support of our team of volunteers — our board members, our leadership and extended teams, as well as our friends and family. They are the true change-makers for championing this cause and trusting me to lead them. We are mothers, daughters or both, and we highlight the interchangeable roles women play in our community. I have witnessed instances where a daughter has “mothered” a mother and vice-versa because we all learn from each other. Our long-term vision is to foster increased representation of women in leadership roles. We commit to a safe, inclusive, diverse and equitable haven where all women — experienced or newcomers — come together to educate, engage and empower each other.

We welcome collaboration opportunities of all natures to raise more awareness around the transformative value of intergenerational learning relationships of women and mentoring. For more information, motherstodaughters.ca.

Mothers to Daughters is a three-year-old nonprofit that’s focused on building a legacy through intergenerational knowledge transfer. Here’s what you need to know about the organization and its inception.

BACK ROW: FRANCINE MBVOUMBO, CARA-LEE LEWIS, IRENE GODEME, YAEL SHOHAM FRONT ROW: RANAH SHAH, SVETLANA RATNIKOVA AND MARISA SAURET

SLEEP

MOUNT ROYAL HOTEL

The Mount Royal on Banff Avenue was originally called the Banff Hotel when it opened in 1908. Back then, it was a red brick building that housed 60 guests. More than 100 years later (and after severe fires that did extensive damage), a $45-million restoration and reconstruction was announced in 2017. Today’s hotel pays homage to its past with historically inspired design, and its modern-day amenities (including a rooftop lounge and outdoor hot tubs) offer guests the ultimate place to unwind after a day taking in the mountain air. 138 Banff Avenue

ELK + AVENUE HOTEL

This upscale modern hotel is all about relaxation and comfort. You’ll find spacious suites, lofts and chic standard rooms — all are super cozy and contemporary. The hotel boasts a fabulous restaurant (Farm & Fire) that you’ll want to visit for multiple meals, as well as a jacuzzi and dry sauna. 333

Banff Avenue

UP TO THE MOUNTAIN

Canada’s first municipality within a National Park, Banff is a quintessential alpine town, surrounded by the iconic Rockies, picturesque vistas, pristine wilderness and glittering-blue lakes. I recently visited, and I couldn’t wait to share some of my favourite lodges, restaurants and things to do along Banff Avenue and in the downtown area, courtesy of the travel experts at Pursuit.

By Lisa van de Geyn

EAT

FARM & FIRE

There’s nothing complicated about this menu. In fact, Farm & Fire is all about using only the freshest, simplest ingredients that come directly from proud local Albertan farmers. The vibe is chic yet comfortable, and it’s super bright. If you’re in town on a Saturday morning, preorder the “Sold Out” Cinnamon Bun — the house cinnamon rolls with whipped sweet cream cheese are worth the planned trip. 333

Banff Avenue

BRAZEN

Inside the Mount Royal Hotel, Brazen is true to its name — it has moody bold decor and an equally bold (and delectable) menu. Honouring the town’s storied history, this spot focuses on sharable plates, reimagined classic dishes and scrumptiously luscious cocktails. Don’t leave without trying the Ginger Beef (Angus beef hanger steak, blistered shishito pepper, onion and ginger syrup), Truffle Parmesan Potatoes with honey butter and the Garden Tea Party — a bevvy made with Botanist Gin, peach liquor, lemon, ginger kombucha and butterfly pea. 138 Banff Avenue

Lisa van de Geyn Ediitor-In-Cheif

SKY BISTRO

They call it a dining sanctuary in the sky, but that’s an understatement — it’s truly a bucket-list culinary experience. When you arrive, you’ll take a breathtaking eight-minute gondola ride to the summit of Sulphur Mountain. As you enter the restaurant, you’re greeted by floor-to-ceiling windows, allowing diners to fully take in the expansive scenery. For lunch, try the southern-fried chicken thighs made with tomato chutney, maple drizzle, pickled red onion and served with a buttermilk waffle and honey-mustard aioli. The Smoked Old Fashioned, with Rupert’s Whiskey, Quebec maple and cherry bitters, is a sipper not to miss.

100 Mountain Avenue

PLAY

OPEN TOP TOURING

Climb aboard one of the vintage-inspired opentop vehicles (glass or a canvas top is used in inclement weather) and prepare for a 90-minute exploration of the Rockies in style. Not only will you hear captivating stories (courtesy of your

expert storyteller guide) about Banff’s history and its townspeople, but you’ll also be surrounded by so many epic photo ops perfect for your Instagram feed.

LAKE MINNEWANKA CRUISE

One of Banff’s most popular tourist spots, this lake is the perfect place to take in the mountain air and spend time on the water. Yes, you can rent a motorboat, canoe or kayak to explore, or buy tickets for the cruise, which includes a guide who provides interesting nuggets about the area. Book the beer cruise if you’re into trying local craft beers.

THIS ALPINE TOWN IS THE PERFECT PLACE TO VISIT IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR STUNNING VISTAS, PRISTINE LAKES, COMFORTABLY CHIC LODGING, IMPECCABLE EATS AND FUN ACTIVITIES FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY.

RECIPE FOR SUCCESS

Meet Scott Hergott, executive chef, Banff Properties, Pursuit Collection.

Q: What’s your favourite thing to do in town when you’re not working?

A: I worked with my roommate to turn a full-sized 40-foot school bus into an RV. I love driving into the mountains and getting time away, cooking with wood and fire and creating great dishes.

Q: Of the four restaurants you’re responsible for in Banff, which one encapsulates your personal vibe?

A: Sky Bistro has always been close to my heart — we did a lot to build it into what it is today. That said, Farm & Fire was my first opportunity with Pursuit to build a restaurant from the ground up. From concept and kitchen renovation to layout and menu development, I was able to create something new, and I’m grateful to be part of it.

Q: You have access to of the most incredible local ingredients when it comes to produce and meat. What does it mean to you as an executive chef to collaborate with local farmers and growers and create farm-to-table menus?

A: At Sky Bistro, we call it “farm to summit,” and to me, it’s vital to us all as chefs. We work very hard to create unique dishes and put our hearts on the plate every day. You can see the same passion when you meet a farmer or producer who lives and breathes their products. The love and attention they put into their work makes the creative process more organic for a chef to create a dish. The products do all the hard work and really make us chefs look great.

CLASSIC LUXURY for MODERN LIFE

TAKE THE PARTY TO THE PATIO

By Rachel Naud

Who said backyards can’t be stylish? Our private yards are no longer just for the odd dining set or picnic table. Today, they have evolved into sophisticated living spaces — an extension of our home indoors — with the addition of comfortable, high-quality, durable furniture. “I think everyone lives a much more hurried and busy life today and we value our recreational and free time that much more,” says Stuart Brown, owner of General Products Outdoor Furniture. “As Canadians, we crave the outdoors and warm weather. We clamour for it.” Our propensity to soak up vitamin D in comfort has challenged the patio-furniture industry to create

From grilling to chilling, patios are outdoor spaces leading in sophistication. Here’s what’s currently all the rage in backyard living.

outdoor opportunities that are just as beautiful as they are relaxing and long-lasting. “Our backyards have really become living spaces,” says Brown. “If you go to someone’s house, sometimes they just tell you to go straight to the backyard, but it’s not just a backyard anymore. It’s an outdoor room.”

Richmond Hill, Ont.-based General Products has been helping customers unwind in their outdoor spaces since 1979 — that’s when Brown’s father opened the doors to the company, which at one time specialized in upholstery and frames. One day, Brown decided to take one of the company’s chairs and power-coat the frame, which then turned it into an outdoor chair. That was the beginning of a venture that has remained strong for 44 years.

When it comes to the company’s offerings, there are several hot and stylish options for homeowners. While wicker furniture has been a mainstay in the patio-furniture world for decades, Brown says more customers are opting for aluminum pieces for a more modern feel. “Aluminum designs have come forward because they’re contemporary-looking, they’re especially comfortable and they have the same angles as wicker furniture,” he says. “There’s a lot happening right now with aluminum designs.” The use of recycled plastics is also on trend, especially north of the city in cottage country, in areas like

Muskoka and Haliburton. “Recycled products are heavy, environmentally friendly and strong, so they won’t be damaged by weather. Plus, when it comes to colour, you don’t have to worry about the material fading.” Finally, powder-coating is popular because it can transform pieces to look like wood grains and all. “It gives it a whole different look, feel and texture,” he says.

When it comes to seating, deep-seated sectionals still rank number-one in terms of what Canadians are looking for in their outdoor living spaces. Brown says firepits are a close second. “Firepits are a huge category. They not only add a fire element that adds to your outdoor living experience, but they also warm you up on cool nights and can extend your patio season even longer, sometimes into October or November.”

When autumn arrives (or the snow starts to fall) and it’s time to take the party inside, Brown always recommends covering and protecting your furniture with a breathable cover bag, even if your set is water-repellent. “You always want to protect your investment,” he says. “And if you think you need chemicals to keep your furniture looking fresh, you don’t. Warm water and a mild detergent are the best things you can ever use so outdoor sets retain their look season after season.”

SHOWING THEIR TRUE COLOURS

Ruth and David Bell have successfully run Village Paint & Wallpaper for 24 years, and they’re far from slowing down. Here’s what the store is best known for and why building lasting relationships is key to their business.

By Tara MacIntosh

Known for its community feel, Village Paint & Wallpaper is a boutique destination for paint, wallpaper and window coverings. Located in the heart of Etobicoke, this neighbourhood landmark was opened in 1953 by the Goddard family and was purchased in 1999 by the current owners, Ruth and David Bell. “Village Paint & Wallpaper is not a typical paint and window-coverings store. Our customers feel at home — we know them by name, we know their family and we’ve had generations of families shop here. It’s truly a small-town experience in a big city,” Ruth says with pride.

The staff’s extensive product knowledge is the differentiating factor when shopping for home decor. Each client receives personalized attention from the moment they walk through the doors. The Bells and their team get to intimately know their clients’ project details and their vision, allowing a smooth experience to selecting the perfect paint colour, wallpaper design or window covering that’s sure to enhance their home. Village Paint & Wallpaper works exclusively with Benjamin Moore Paints and Hunter Douglas window treatments, so there’s an array of luxurious options available.

Ruth and David are both active in the business, with Ruth focused on design and colour consultations. David takes a more active role in the Hunter Douglas window-coverings and drapery side of the company. “Our business volume is equal between paint and window coverings. We also offer custom area rugs and some finishing touches to help complete the look,” says Ruth. “In a consultation appointment, I’ll ask many questions to ensure the client gets the product that is right for their home style, size and lifestyle. Paint and window coverings are more permanent parts of your decor, so getting it right is imperative. I ensure our clients are confident in their choices.”

Building long-lasting relationships is super important to the Bells. Coming from sales backgrounds, they understand the value of a strong customer bond and the importance of deep product knowl-

edge. As a family business, they love what they do and look forward to each step of a project, from conception to completion. “Every day is different, every project is different, but our passion is always the same. We love what we do and look forward to helping our clients create joy in their homes,” Ruth explains.

Of equal importance to the Village Paint & Wallpaper team is keeping up with the trends. Ruth says customers are currently favouring lighter hues with warmer neutrals and shades of white. The warmer colours complement open-concept homes and allow homeowners to make a splash with statement walls and colourful furnishings, pillows and accessories. “The flow of a home is so important. We consider that when selecting colours and wallpaper design,” says Ruth. “Light, off-white and warmer tones pair well with natural light and have increased in popularity over the last couple of years.”

The couple’s meticulous attention to detail and knowledge of their products are unmistakable, and the Bell’s genuine pride in helping their clients turn a house into a home is truly one of a kind. There’s no denying they’ll continue to make a mark with homeowners, designers and other clients for years to come.

THE COUPLE’S METICULOUS ATTENTION TO DETAIL AND KNOWLEDGE OF THEIR PRODUCTS ARE UNMISTAKABLE.

THE PERFECT CUP OF JOE

By Tara MacIntosh

All eyes turn to the sleek JURA machine as alluring coffee aromas fill the air. These superior machines, engineered and made in Switzerland, enhance the enjoyment of coffee drinking in every way.

“JURA focuses exclusively on coffee machines. It’s our forte. Our focus and dedication differentiate our machines from others,” says Chris Papastathopoulos, JURA’S national sales manager. “And this year, we’re really excited to bring two innovative machines to market: the newly released J8 and GIGA 10.”

The J line is known for mastering classic coffee beverages, and this newest generation — the J8 — has added features, like the Sweet Foam Function, which helps to create a perfect coffee every time. “The J8 is the perfect centrepiece to any kitchen or coffee bar. The new Sweet Foam Function has quickly become a family favourite.

Your at-home co ee experience has been elevated once again. Here’s what you need to know about JURA’s J8 and the GIGA 10 — two brilliant machines delivering exceptional flavour and quality.

This feature allows users to add flavour directly to the milk with our preferred Fabbri and DaVinci syrups,” says Papastathopoulos. “The result is a unique sweetness and intensity in every cup at the touch of a button.” Adding the popular flavours to milk versus the coffee itself ensures consistent sweetness in every sip. It allows coffee drinkers to create unique combinations that replicate their favourite coffee shop beverage in the comfort of their own kitchen. Following the JURA philosophy of freshly ground beans, the J8 includes the Professional Aroma Grinder Plus. This new feature allows users to set the grinder to the desired grind consistency. Not to be overlooked, the impressive exterior of this machine reflects its modern interior.

the simple touch of a button. “Having a cold brew option is vital for different palates. Innovation like this is a testament to JURA’s understanding of the market and where it is going,” he says. With the incredible innovation and offerings, it is undeniable that JURA understands the world of coffee and where the trends are. The striking design of the GIGA 10 reflects its power in the coffee world.

Visit the JURA Hospitality Centre in Mississauga, Ont. (or any of the FAEMA retail stores), to experience the incredible designs and sample the premium blends first-hand. The art of coffee drinking requires sophistication and impeccable engineering, and JURA embodies both beautifully.

ing requires sophistication and impeccable engineering, and JURA embodies both beautifully.

rience. Its forward-thinking technology allows coffee aficionados

coffees,” Papastathopoulos says.

two-disc grinders, meaning two

trol over the final taste with

The GIGA line walks the line between a professional and a residential machine. Designed to create bespoke cups of coffee, the GIGA 10 offers every user the barista experience. Its forward-thinking technology allows coffee aficionados to hand-select their combination of beans, the intensity of dairy and hot or cold brew options. “We are excited about the new GIGA 10 as it caters to all styles of coffee drinkers, including those who prefer cold coffees,” Papastathopoulos says. “This impressive machine has two-disc grinders, meaning two different bean flavours can go into each hopper. On the touch screen, you can combine the two flavours to your desired combination. The machine will save up to three combinations for four users replicating the unique blend they prefer every time.” The modern panoramic screen allows users complete control over the final taste with

WITH THE INCREDIBLE INNOVATION AND OFFERINGS, IT IS UNDENIABLE THAT JURA UNDERSTANDS THE WORLD OF COFFEE AND WHERE THE TRENDS ARE. THE STRIKING DESIGN OF THE GIGA 10 REFLECTS ITS POWER IN THE COFFEE WORLD.

BENEATH THE SURFACE

Cava Surfaces prides itself on providing clients with hand-selected stone and building materials from around the world. Here, Tariq Darwish, the company’s sales manager, explains the di erences between the stones and the pros and cons of each.

Living Luxe: You carry natural stone, porcelain and quartz slabs. Why are these materials superior to others on the market?

Tariq Darwish (TD): All our building materials are suitable for all types of cladding/countertop applications. While we carry the durable engineered products — quartz and porcelain — we have a true passion for hand-selecting each block of natural stone. Cava specializes in marble, quartzite, granite, limestone and soapstone, each from countries around the world. From the Apuan Alps in Italy to the mountains of  Espírito Santo in Brazil, we curate some of the most unique stones and collaborate with interior designers and builders to create beautiful residential and commercial projects.

LL: What are the pros and cons of these various materials?

TD: We’ll start with quartz. It’s engineered to mimic natural stone and consists of natural quartz minerals and resin. It’s one of the most durable materials for countertops as it’s stain and scratch resistant. The drawbacks are that it’s not heat resistant and may not have the depth of a natural stone or marble because the veining is artificial.

Porcelain is a mineral-clay mixture that’s

baked to form a durable surface. It truly mimics marbles due to having a print on the surfaces. It replicates natural stone and will virtually never stain or etch. It’s lightweight, perfect for interior and exterior cladding, walls/shower walls, fireplaces and more. Even used as countertops due to its extreme low maintenance. However, it’s susceptible to chipping, due to the marble veining being a print on the surface. It’s also harder to fix any chips that may occur; it’s almost impossible to fix a porcelain slab once it cracks and labour for countertops can be costly.

When it comes to granite, it’s some of the hardest material on Earth. Used for exterior and interior applications, it’s long-lasting, very low maintenance and heat resistant. It’s perfect for interior and exterior cladding and countertops, and often used for commercial building exteriors and flooring due to its resilience. It can be restored and repolished to its original state. The main cons are that the colours and patterns are consistent, so it might not be as aesthetically pleasing as marble.

Quartzite is also one of the hardest materials on the planet. Consisting mainly of quartz crystals, quartz is one of the most abundant minerals underground. It has low porosity and it has a high scratch resistance. Every block is

unique in colour, depth and rarity. Perfect for countertop use, and people often use it for feature walls and cladding. Like granite, it can be restored and repolished to its original state. Quartzite can be pricey, depending on its rarity. It also offers quite different patterns and colours than the often-desired marble look.

Finally, marble is still, by far, the most aesthetically pleasing type of stone. Each block is unique in pattern, depth, colour, veining and rarity. It’s perfect for cladding walls and fireplaces and can be restored and repolished to its original state. The cons of marble are that it’s very porous and can be a soft material, depending on the marble. It can scratch easily and stain if it’s not sealed and maintained properly. It can also be pricey, depending on block and rarity.

LL: How do clients decide which material to use for various surfaces of their home?

TD: When it comes to deciding finishes in your home, you must consider the look you want to achieve, the pros and cons of each stone and your budget. Our team will always assist clients with selecting the best material for their space, whether it’s the kitchen, bathroom or another room.

IN LIVING COLOUR

YA Phygital Fabrica’s gallery-like furniture springs to life through form, function and colour, and Alina Tacmelova is at the helm.

By Adriana Ermter

“I have such an interesting background and I really wanted to create something unique in the world of interior design,” says Alina Tacmelova, the founder of YA Phygital Fabrica, which launched in January 2023. “I envisioned the objects we create as pieces that can be used in the home and also treated as wonderful pieces of art.”

Describing these luxury items as pieces of art may be an understatement, however. The collections that fill Tacmelova’s Vaughan, Ont.-based studio, located on Rivermede Road, are truly reminiscent of childhood trips to the candy store. Each brilliant grouping of work feels like real-life bursts of happiness manifested into lava-red side tables, hot-pink and seafoam-green coffee tables and a smattering of glossy, one-minute hourglass-shaped black structures. Boasting names like “Digitree,” “Aventurine” and “Bowtie Land,” each collection contains a handful of extraordinary items, each one functional as furniture, while simultaneously acting as standalone art sculptures. And all are born from Tacmelova’s visionary mind.

“You can use them and enjoy them; they bring character to any space,” adds Tacmelova. “There hasn’t been anyone who has brought this type of work to the market, which, in Canada, is very conservative and typically filled with grey, brown, black and white pieces. I’m not scared to take a risk with colour, and I create objects that can be passed down from generation to generation.”

Fuelled by Generation Z’s quest for sustainability, the Soviet Union-born and Italian-style-inspired Tacmelova’s unbridled joie de vivre is simply infectious. Her life’s experience as a

psychologist and florist, combined with her current status as a creative designer, makes her this decade’s epitome of a renaissance woman. Although, she’ll humbly claim she’s merely an entrepreneur, “I am a businesswoman,” affirms Tacmelova. “I certainly have interesting talents. I always know what will be at point A and at point B, but I don’t always know how I will move to and from each point. I ultimately believe in this creative process.”

This process includes YA Phygital Fabrica’s seven-member team, including Tacmelova’s engineer-educated husband, Yury Goncharov, and a computer numerical control (CNC) machine. While Tacmelova conceptualizes and designs each piece by first drawing it on paper (no artificial intelligence is used in the early stages), the company relies on the CNC machine to vet each sculpture’s dimensions and to build prototypes which are then, later, individually crafted and painted by hand. Using mixed materials such as polystyrene, oak, epoxy and copper, each luxury piece is built layer by layer in limited editions of five and manufactured in house with prices ranging from $7,000 for a small bubble-gum pink “Bowne” side table to $14,000 for a large seafoam green with copper detailing “Aventurine” coffee table.

“My art installations, when they are placed and used in people’s homes, bring a positive transformation,” says Tacmelova. “I know Canadians can be quiet and my pieces are quite loud, but I thought I would try my hand at this business. Because I was a psychologist first, I connect life with design and art. It brings a more positive energy to an environment. It is how I talk from my heart.”

“I REALLY WANTED TO CREATE SOMETHING UNIQUE IN THE WORLD OF INTERIOR DESIGN. I ENVISIONED THESE OBJECTS AS PIECES THAT CAN BE USED IN THE HOME AND ALSO TREATED AS WONDERFUL PIECES OF ART.”

SUMMER IN THE CITY

By Tara MacIntosh

Wellness and tranquillity are top priorities for luxurious getaways, and Hotel X Toronto is the perfect luxury location to enjoy the serenity of the summer months without stepping foot on a plane. With a variety of bespoke packages available featuring award-winning amenities, personalized touches and fine-dining options, get ready to indulge in the most desirable summer experiences in the heart of the city.

Hotel X Toronto is offering fabulous packages this season. “Our carefully thought-out packages allow guests to enjoy the best we have to offer while celebrating important milestones in their lives,” says Matt Black, director of marketing and revenue. “They are designed to include our world-class amenities while incorporating personal preferences such as room selection and concierge services, as well as reservations and securing tickets to major events. Summer is a time for celebration — why not celebrate with us?”

The Family Fun package will delight adults and kids alike. Families receive five-star treatment with in-room goodies for the kids, play

time at 10XTO Kid’s Play Centre, exceptional room views and cozy robes and slippers for the whole family. Make memories at the rooftop pool, devour internationally inspired dishes and explore the family-focused amenities. This year the package includes up to four tickets to “Disney Animation: Immersive Experience by Lighthouse Immersive Studios Toronto.” (This experience is available until early July.)

After a long winter of cold and snow, taking a sensory journey will cleanse your body, mind and soul. Two of the most popular packages for complete rejuvenation and relaxation are the Spa Retreat and the Girls’ Getaway packages, both featuring treatment options at the renowned Guerlain Spa, a true haven of tranquillity. Each package has a bespoke offering, including a spa credit guaranteed to illuminate the skin and quiet the mind. After a day of exclusive therapies, there is no better place to reconnect than over cocktails and the exquisite menu items while dining at Valerie or Roses Cocina. “The Spa Retreat package remains one of our most popular. The one- or two-night package

We’re getting closer to the warmest months of the year, and to celebrate, we asked the pros at Hotel X Toronto to share what’s happening this season.

is the perfect city getaway for busy professionals needing a mini escape,” he says.

The folks at Hotel X Toronto love to fête special milestones with several packages designed to celebrate birthdays, love connections and weekend fun, including the Birthday, Wellness, Bed-and-Breakfast and Celebrate Love packages. “The Bed-and-Breakfast package is our bestselling package as it features a complementary Roses Cocina breakfast. Every menu item is so delicious, it keeps our guests returning,” says Black. “Our packages allow our guests to choose their room preference and create a personalized experience with the help of our concierge. Plus, the 10XTO Group Fitness is included with many packages so guests can keep up with a fitness routine while staying with us.”

Hotel X Toronto is the ultimate destination for summer fun. The luxurious amenities, decor, attentive staff and personalized details make each stay a lifelong memory. The door is always open, and the Hotel X Toronto family is eager to welcome you this season.

“OUR CAREFULLY THOUGHT-OUT PACKAGES ALLOW GUESTS TO ENJOY THE BEST WE HAVE TO OFFER WHILE CELEBRATING IMPORTANT MILESTONES IN THEIR LIVES.”

A WINDOW OF OPPORTUNITY

Tilt-and-turn windows are currently all the rage, with designers and builders consistently choosing them for high-end custom homes. Here’s what Edgar Sigal, president of Chateau Window & Door Systems, told us about the benefits and innovation behind these windows.

Living Luxe: Tell us about tilt-and-turn windows — what exactly are they and how does the technology work? How do you best describe them to clients?

Edgar Sigal (ES): With people taking charge of their own custom-home building and renovations, more window styles are now becoming popular and more widely available. Tilt-andturn windows are windows that open two ways — they can either tilt inwards at the top or open inwards from hinges on the side. When tilted, they provide excellent ventilation and rain protection.

Living Luxe: This design is quite innovative, and we’ve read they’re engineered to perform better than other windows — does this ring true to you? What are the advantages of these windows?

ES: Tilt-and-turn windows are designed to suit any building style and architectural need — they are extremely versatile and are so popular because they’re easy to use. For those

who prioritize home security, tilt-and-turn windows are truly the best choice, as they offer excellent security, thanks to their perimetric multi-point locking system.

Living Luxe: Tell us more about sound control and security.

ES: These windows are very secure because they have multiple locking points and are made of thicker glass, durable frames and internal hardware. Generally, they are very difficult to pry open or break into, which means they are safer than traditional windows when it comes to burglaries. Greater security and soundproofing can be achieved with laminated glass.

Living Luxe: Tell us how these windows fare when it comes to ventilation and energy efficiency.

ES: Brighter rooms have such bright possibilities! Thanks to modern manufacturing

advances, tilt-and-turn windows are proven to be a smart window choice, especially for new construction projects. They are extremely energy-efficient, thanks to special air seals and a durable design, which prevent both draughts and leaks. Their sophisticated design makes them the ideal choice for passive houses.

Living Luxe: Why is this kind of window so desirable to designers and homeowners when it comes to appearance and performance? What makes them so ideal for any space?

ES: High-quality aluminum windows (and doors) are enjoying increasing popularity. Designers and homeowners choose this product because it provides architectural freedom due to custom sizes. Customers are not limited by traditional finishing options, but they have a wide variety of choices without any additional cost. Competitive pricing plays a key role for these products.

SURFACES FOR life

AN ARTISTIC TRIUMPH

Toronto’s Thompson Landry Gallery has specialized in showcasing Quebec artists since its inception 17 years ago. In that time, the founders have featured special exhibits, hosted events and even opened a second space where art lovers can take in some of Canada’s finest works.

By Tara MacIntosh

For Thompson Landry Gallery’s cofounders, Joanne Thompson and Sylvain Landry, talking about art all day is an absolute dream. Back in 2006, the art lovers opened their gallery in Toronto’s historic Distillery District, allowing collectors and art aficionados to purchase contemporary Quebec art within city limits. “We loved the Quebec art scene and quickly discovered there was nothing like it available in Toronto. We really wanted to bring celebrated Quebec-based artists to the city,” says Thompson. The gallery first started showing pieces in the Distillery District’s serene Stone Space built in the 1860s. “We fell in love with the Victorian industrial architecture here. The space was raw at the time, but we visualized the beauty underneath,” she remembers. “So, we decided to sandblast everything to reveal the

limestone walls and double beams, both perfect elements for absorbing the artwork while giving our clients an intimate experience.” The space has abundant natural light and high ceilings for larger pieces.

Just a couple of years after opening, in 2008, the interest in contemporary Quebec artists had grown, so the pair opened a second location, this time in the Cooperage Space. This additional 4,300-square-foot area has a rustic vibe and museum-quality lighting. “The focus here is on the artwork; it is a darker and moodier atmosphere. There is a growing interest in internationally acclaimed Canadian artists, and this space truly represents them well.”

The staff at Thompson Landry Gallery, which is still the only gallery in the city specializing in Quebec artists, are no strangers to hosting exhibitions and special events throughout the year. For 2023, so far there are three impressive exhibits planned that Thompson is

“THE FOCUS HERE IS ON THE ARTWORK; IT IS A DARKER AND MOODIER ATMOSPHERE. THERE IS A GROWING INTEREST IN INTERNATIONALLY ACCLAIMED CANADIAN ARTISTS, AND THIS SPACE TRULY REPRESENTS THEM WELL.”

excited about. The first is Danielle Lanteigne, whose work was shown in April and early May. Lanteigne reshapes objects such as flowers, fruit and tables with bold and unexpected colours. She has painted for more than 30 years and has amassed an international following. Then, from May 18 to June 11, Paul Beliveau’s work will be showcased. Beliveau reveals shades of blue, purple, yellow, red and green in this exhibition focusing on his Vanitas series that features the spines of books. In the fall, an exhibit that includes purist France Jodoin will be available from September 21 to October 15. She transforms cityscapes, landscapes, and seascapes, consistently taking her audience to another time and place. Jodoin has been painting for more than 20 years and always presents an incredible canvas.

While the gallery (which is often rented out after hours for special occasions and celebrations) prides itself on highlighting incredible artists and their stunning works, Thompson also ensures guests are

met with an inviting atmosphere. “We work with our clients to ensure the utmost in comfort. We invite them to relax, linger, experience the art, and truly take in the piece before they purchase,” she says. “We curate the same experience for first-time visitors and those who intimately know the masters. We welcome everyone who walks in our door.” The design of the space includes thoughtfully placed nooks and crannies where patrons can ponder the works on display.

Of course, beautiful art is meant to be enjoyed, and Thompson and her team have ensured their featured artists are displayed with pride and care. New pieces come in regularly, which is one of the many reasons why patrons frequent the gallery. Thompson has made solid relationships with clients, and word of mouth keeps the place bustling with people who love nothing more than magnificent paintings, fascinating sculptures and other brilliant works of art.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOANNE THOMPSON

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WINE & DINE: 20 BEST VIBES

Toronto’s culinary establishments are thriving, with thousands of eateries serving foodies all over the city. For the first time, the teams at View the VIBE and Living Luxe are sharing 20 hot spots that not only have fabulous menus, but also exude the perfect ambiance.

By

With one of the most diverse food scenes in the world, Toronto is overflowing with firstrate menus curated by top-level chefs in exquisitely designed eateries. So, when the teams at View the VIBE (a Toronto-based lifestyle magazine) and Living Luxe got together to curate a comprehensive list of our favourite eateries, we were all super enthusiastic and inspired to share the spots we believe truly exemplify an exceptional vibe. Our selections are based on the places that provide a remarkable menu, quality service, stunning design, live entertainment and a cool atmosphere. These 20 eateries boast a memorable, comfortable and polished experience that keeps diners coming back.

IMAGE (LEFT TO RIGHT) STEVEN BRANCO, VIEW THE VIBE, JENNIFER LIPKOWITZ AND ANTHONY SIRIANNI, LIVING LUXE.

Erin Nicole Davis

Portrait Photography by Nick Merzetti

Retouched by Alex Mair

Creative director/produced by Steven Branco

Styled by Jenna Bitove-Naumovich

Makeup by Arabella Trasca and Angela Lee Hair by Klodi Stavre

HARRIET’S ROOFTOP

KING WEST (FEATURED PHOTO)

Scenic views and sophisticated vibes are the name of the game at Harriet’s, located at 1 Hotel Toronto. This Japanese-fusion spot serves up expertly crafted cocktails and upscale bites, with the sounds of the city’s best DJs in the background against a backdrop of sprawling, stunning vistas. 1hotels.com

BLUEBLOOD

STEAKHOUSE CASA LOMA

Those looking for a sophisticated spot fit for any special occasion should check out BlueBlood, one of our favourite restaurants for an extravagant dinner. Located in the famed Casa Loma, the opulent steakhouse specializes in dry-aged steak and decadent seafood towers that won’t disappoint. The extensive wine list is a triumph. bluebloodsteakhouse.com

HARBOUR 60 HARBOURFRONT

A city staple for years, upscale steakhouse Harbour 60 has been frequented by celebrities and CEOs for decades. Known for its reliable comfort food and relaxed vibe, the spot is as known for its incredible wine list as it is its quality steaks. harbour60.com

* 20 best VIBES list is not in ranking order

BLUEBLOOD STEAKHOUSE

HARRIET’S ROOFTOP

HARBOUR 60

ONE RESTAURANT

LAVELLE PATIO

LOUIX LOUIS

ALOETTE

TROUBLE

LOUIX LOUIS FINANCIAL DISTRICT

A gilded gem tucked away above the city’s Financial District, this is the place to be seen. This lavish spot excels at Frenchand American-inspired dishes, and it fills up quickly with the after-work crew, couples and tourists. It has a smart, invigorating buzz that’s not pretentious in any way. louixlouis.com

ONE RESTAURANT YORKVILLE

With its subdued ambiance and indulgent menu of ritzy comforting bites, ONE Restaurant located at the chic Hazelton Hotel is a go-to for visitors and people-watchers. Hollywood’s most famous faces have graced the patio, lobby bar and indoor area, making it the perfect place for celebrity spotting. onerestaurant.ca

D | BAR AT FOUR SEASONS YORKVILLE

Consistently filled with an eclectic mix of interesting characters of all backgrounds, d|bar by Daniel Boulud, this issue’s cover feature, is an ideal locale for guests of all ages (especially the 35-plus crowd) to indulge in luscious cocktails and casual fare that’s perfect for sharing. We love its mature vibe. dbartoronto.com

ALOETTE QUEEN WEST

Aloette (part of the Alo Food Group led by Michelin-Starred chef Patrick Kriss) has a polished diner atmosphere and offers an array of mouth-watering eats. This is the only location of the chef’s coveted lineup that you can walk into without needing a reservation. aloetterestaurant.com

LAVELLE PATIO KING WEST

Those looking to dress up and paint the town hit Lavelle. A summertime staple, the sprawling rooftop bar features swimming pools, cabanas, stunning city views and a quality menu. It has a super-hip weekend vibe, though the atmosphere during the day is also amazing. chezlavelle.com

FONDA BALAM DUNDAS WEST

The unassuming but crowd-pleasing Dundas West restaurant was recently featured in the Michelin Guide. Come for a combination of relaxed Mexican cuisine and enjoy the laidback vibe. fondabalam.com

BIG TROUBLE CHINATOWN

Located in Chinatown, Big Trouble features a wide range of Baijiu (a Chinese liquor), approachable cocktails and cool resident DJs. It’s always a good time, but don’t be thrown off by their long lines along Dundas West, as they tend to move quickly. The Asianinspired decor and Pan-Asian light bites are a winning combination. bigtrouble.ca

REYNA ON KING CORKTOWN

With its shareable Mediterranean-inspired bites and nostalgic ‘90s tunes, Reyna on King is a great place to hit up for date night. The intimate spot invites guests to get comfortable and bond over a quality meal, with Instagramworthy decor. reynaonking.com

BIG

EVANGELINE AT THE ACE HOTEL

BLACK PEARL

BARO ROOFTOP

CLOCKWORK CHAMPAGNE & COCKTAILS

KASA MOTO ROOFTOP

EVANGELINE AT THE ACE HOTEL KING WEST

Evangeline at the Ace Hotel serves delicious cocktails and attracts an elevated artsy, cultural crowd like no other. The new patio is great for dinner or a nightcap. Every nook and cranny gives off a warm vibe. evangelinetoronto.com

CLOCKWORK CHAMPAGNE & COCKTAILS FINANCIAL DISTRICT

Offering a distinctively regal appeal, the Clockwork at the iconic Fairmont Royal York Hotel is one of the most impressive lobby bars in the city. The cocktail and Champagne lounge offers a sophisticated and sexy vibe, with an interior inspired by luxury Pullman carriages. clockworktoronto.com

BLACK PEARL ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT

The Black Pearl touts itself as the perfect hangout spot from after 5 until late into the night. Part street-art gallery, part pool hall and part bar, this place is all about the top-notch live entertainment at its core. blackpearlto.com

BARO ROOFTOP KING WEST

Baro feels like a Miami hot spot hidden above King West with its rooftop patio tropical oasis. The restaurant serves up delicious and approachable eats and drinks in a relaxed environment, making it perfect for both an after-work beverage and a bite or a night out with friends. barotoronto.com

KASA MOTO ROOFTOP YORKVILLE

Located in the heart of Yorkville, Kasa Moto’s large rooftop patio is a go-to for the city’s easy-on-the-eyes set of movers and shakers. The swish spot is one of the toughest patios to get on to, but it’s one of our favourites when it comes to enjoying elaborate cocktails and Japanese-fusion food in the outdoors. kasamoto.ca

EPOCH BAR & KITCHEN TERRACE

ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT

Dubbed as one of the ultimate TIFF hotspots, the newly redesigned lobby bar inside the Ritz-Carlton does not disappoint. Have drinks on the patio or enjoy dinner before or after a show (it’s down the street from Roy Thompson Hall and Mirvish theatres). The bar is elevated yet cozy, featuring tastefully done British fare. epochtoronto.com

PREQUEL & CO. APOTHECARY QUEEN WEST

The Queen West location is the second outpost by internationally acclaimed master mixologist and Netflix sensation, Frankie Solarik. Hidden behind an apothecary front, the cool speakeasy spot offers caviar service and cocktails bound to rock your taste buds. barprequel.com

PARC AVE YORKVILLE

Perfect for a nightcap, Parc Ave is a recent addition to Yorkville’s late-night offerings. Come for the sumptuous cocktails and caviar bumps and stay for the spectacular relaxed ambiance. Whether you’re perched at the bar or seated in a lush red velvet booth enjoying bottle service, you’ll want to hang out and take it all in. parcavetoronto.ca

DON ALFONSO 1890 HARBOURFRONT

Recently relocated to the Harbourfront area, on top of the Westin Harbour Castle hotel, this outpost Michelin-Star restaurant has also been dubbed the best Italian restaurant outside of Italy. It features flawless design, has an incredible view and certainly has one of the best fine-dining atmospheres in the city — it’s the epitome of elegance and class. donalfonsotoronto.com

PREQUEL & CO. APOTHECARY

PARC AVE

EPOCH BAR & KITCHEN TERRACE

THE PERFECT PAIR

By Adriana Ermter

“A wine pairing can elevate your dining experience to the next level,” say Angela Marotta and Melissa Marotta-Paolicelli, the co-proprietors of Two Sisters Vineyards in Ontario’s scenic Niagara-on-the-Lake. “When a wine and food are properly paired, they will either complement or contrast one another in an incredibly delightful way. We want to tantalize all the senses and encourage you to use your sense of smell each time you bring the glass to your palate for tasting and savouring.”

Angela and Melissa are taste masters when it comes to stimulating the senses through scrumptious food and the vineyard’s exceptional grapes. Collaborating with their winemaker, Adam Pearce; estate sommelier, Dieter Unruh; along with their on-site restaurant Kitchen76’s chef, the duo carefully choose wines to match their seasonal menu offerings — all to ensure that their guests and clients have a memorable, tasty experience. It’s all about creating “a wine and food balance,” they explain. “Robust more complex red wines will pair better with heavier foods, and lighter foods work beautifully with whites, rosé wines and the sparkling variety. If the wine is too light, the food will take over and vice versa, so paying attention to a wine’s profile and body is very important.”

To help diners with the pairing process, Kitchen76’s menu includes suggested wine pairings specifically selected by their winemaker, sommelier and chef. Similarly, the vineyard’s expert team provides

Tastemakers Angela Marotta and Melissa Marotta-Paolicelli define how to enhance every meal with the right bottle of wine.

these top-notch pairings for on-site events and experiences at the estate — all to ensure that each glass and plate served are thoroughly enjoyed. But you don’t have to dine in to reap the perfectly paired rewards. The Two Sisters Vineyards Wine Boutique team provides guests with suggestions for meals made at home, while suggested food-and-wine pairings are also noted on the e-commerce page of the vineyard’s website to help online buyers make their selections. Going the extra mile, Angela and Melissa share family and Kitchen76’s recipes too, publishing them in each Wine Club member’s quarterly Club TSV shipment of wines, so that perfect pairings can be recreated at home.

Favourite pairings include the Two Sisters sparkling Blanc de Franc with a grazing table filled with cured meats and delectable cheeses. Their 2019 Unoaked Chardonnay works impeccably with bitter greens, such as the Insalata Cicoria offered at Kitchen76, and a bottle of their Cabernet Sauvignon should be enjoyed with a bold-flavoured pasta such as a Rigatoni Bolognese. “Learning and discovering wine is very exciting,” the sisters say. “Look to explore varietals that you may not have tried before to discover a new favourite. And, of course, drink what you enjoy.”

Libby Wildman Finance Expert

MINDFUL ABOUT MONEY

Are you savvy when it comes to saving? Do you have a habit of putting material consumption ahead of padding your bank account? Financial expert Libby Wildman shares the importance of taking control of your finances and embracing the sufficiency of wealth.

By Libby Wildman

I love travelling. It keeps me humble and reminds me I live in a country where my savings will still be worth something in a few weeks. It always renews my sense of privilege as a Canadian.

In January when I was in Sicily with my daughter, Bailey, we experienced what life on the small island was like for locals. Most places were closed, as it would be a few months before tourists started to arrive again for the season. I speak only English and living in Ortygia for six days (where most locals don’t know more than a few English words) made me think of how difficult it would have been for my stepmother’s family when they emigrated from Sicily to Toronto 65 years ago. At the time, they didn’t know the language, they didn’t have work and they didn’t have friends they could lean on.

On our way home, I flew Turkish Airlines and took the opportunity to ask our flight attendant how he and his friends felt about money (it’s an occupational habit) and what it meant to them. “Security. It means keeping my family with a roof over their head and food on the table,” he told me.

In Turkey (also called Türkiye), inflation is 180 percent. Residents cannot keep their money in the bank for long, as it will quickly be worth nothing. Instead, they must invest in gold, the stock market or currencies like the US dollar in order to maintain some purchasing power of their money. Our flight attendant shared that young people who are making good incomes (to the tune of $100,000-plus each year) have given up the hope of building wealth or buying a home, so they are choosing to spend instead of save. Money has no value other than current consumption. There is no thought for the future.

Speaking to my young North American clients, while not facing 180-percent inflation, they also seem to have given up hope — hope of a future of abundant wealth. They do not see how they can ever be wealthy and have adopted spending as a way of life.

What is wealth?

Wealth is what you do not see. It is not the car, the vacations or the boats. Wealth is, first and foremost, access to health care, a community that supports you and a job that sustains you. Beyond this, true wealth is in your savings, your investment accounts and perhaps rental properties. It is having enough to weather the inevitable

storm and to feel sufficiency in your life. It is not the income you earn or the toys you buy. I have borne witness to several “wealthy” people who didn’t save enough or risked it all too many times. I have spoken with countless people with an income of $1 million in Toronto, and after all the stuff they feel they need to support their lifestyle, they have nothing to contribute to savings.

The discipline to change your life and save for who you will be in the future must come from a place of belief that you are more than the sum of your things. The work is in understanding that one day you too will be old, and taking control of your financial life now is life-saving important. Once you realize that all this spending is not actually the derivation of your happiness and you have a plan and vision, your stress, health and relationships will improve remarkably. Living within your means is truly a prescription for health, happiness and wealth.

Instead of letting your finances hold power over you, practise the affirmation that you are largely in control of the role money plays in your life. Get into the habit of being respectful of your money. Embracing the feeling of sufficiency of wealth is quite powerful. I leave you with this quote by author Shane Parrish: “Over time, the person who approaches life with an openness to being wrong and a willingness to learn outperforms the person who doesn’t.”

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

“Designtheory delivers inspired interiors that are, quite simpl y, exceptional.”

NEW KID IN TOWN

On Thursday February 2, 2023, premium bodycontouring provider, Elite Body Sculpture, hosted an invitation-only event at its gorgeous new Yorkville location. The intimate event, celebrating the brand’s first international location, included a tour of Elite’s luxe spa-like setting and an opportunity to learn more about Elite Body Sculpture’s exclusive AirSculpt experience with renowned surgeon Dr. Omodele Ayeni. Guests had the opportunity to ask questions about body contouring, learn about AirSculpt and get personal consultations with experts. “We couldn’t be more excited to have our first international location here in Toronto. We have helped more than 35,000 people in the US get rid of stubborn fat, so we are thrilled to have the opportunity to help Torontonians with our AirSculpt experience,” says Stephanie Evans Greene, the company’s chief marketing officer.

The AirSculpt experience is designed to optimize comfort and precision with a minimally invasive procedure that removes hard-to-get-rid-of fat while sculpting targeted areas of the body. You can find out more about Elite Body Sculpture’s AirSculpt experience at airsculpt.ca.

1. ANDREA MCMULLEN, JENNIFER LIPKOWITZ, DR. OMODELE AYENI AND STEPHANIE EVANS GREENE. 2. VANESSA FERRO, JENNIFER LIPKOWITZ, EDILKA ANDERSON AND CARLA GUZMAN. 3. PARTY GUESTS. 4. MARIN ZABZUNI, WASAM QASSIM AND LIBBY WILDMAN. 5. JENNIFER LIPKOWITZ AND NAOMI SHAPIRO. 6. SAMIRA MORSHEDI.

Elite Body Sculpture recently opened its first Canadian location and celebrated the big launch with a soiree.

Photography by Red Dice Media

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

FEEL OUT LOUD

On Thursday March 9, in celebration of Ellie Mae’s one-of-a-kind partnership with Kids Help Phone (KHP), the Canadian fashion house hosted a “Gallery Night” event at their flagship retail store in Summerhill. This spectacular evening was all about building awareness and raising much-needed funds for supporting youth mental health and KHP’s new mission: “Feel Out Loud.” Guests purchased the capsule collection — including totes, T-shirts and socks — designed by Ellie Mae for KHP, and excitedly bid in a silent auction for additional items.

Over the past three years, Ellie Mae has partnered and raised more than $50,000 through creating products in support of the venerable volunteer-led charitable organization that provides telephone and online counselling (in English and French) to young people across the country. This year, the Ellie Mae team reached out to elementary schools in the city and asked students to draw what they thought of when hearing the words “Feel Out Loud.” The responses — and amazing artwork — they received inspired the collection. “To see firsthand the illustrations from young people who showcased their struggles made me that much more grateful for Kids Help Phone and the work we do with them,” says Ellie Mae Waters, the founder and creative director of Ellie Mae Studios.

You can find Ellie Mae’s limited-edition KHP collection online at elliemaestudios.com and in-store at the flagship store location at 1096 Yonge Street.

1. THE ELLIE MAE TEAM WITH THE ARTISTS. 2. NATHALIE MARTIN. 3. STEPH CARR, ADAM MALLORY AND DAVIS KHOUNNORAJ. 4. NATASHA KOIFMAN AND ERIC HENDRIKX. 5. JEREMY WOOD-ROSS. 6. OLIVE JEAN MCKINNON. 7. SANDER OEYEN AND ARLINDA SELJA. 8. MITCH SYER AND ERIN LEYDON.

Guests from across the city came together to celebrate Ellie Mae’s latest capsule collection benefitting Kids Help Phone.

Photography by Mauricio J. Calero Photography

GRAND & GLAM

There’s truly nothing more splendidly glamorous than a supersexy kitchen designed by the incomparable Lori Morris. We’re also huge fans of her bathrooms. See some of our favourites on page 128.

HAUTE Cuisine THE ART OF

Ask the Living Luxe team to name a first-class, Michelin-Starred chef and restaurateur who has an unparalleled passion for all things French cuisine and fine dining, and one culinary genius instantly comes to mind: Chef Daniel Boulud. When we chose to feature the famous gourmand — known for his exquisite

menus and business savvy — on the cover of our annual Kitchen & Bath special, we couldn’t wait to learn about his past, his food and the impact he’s made on the restaurant industry. Here’s what lifestyle editor Jeanne Beker discovered about the chef extraordinaire. If we do say so ourselves, his story c’est délicieux.

By Jeanne Beker

Photography by Natasha Gerschon

Styled by Jenna Bitove-Naumovich

Grooming by Victoria De Sousa Suits by Garrison Bespoke Photography venue: Four Seasons Hotel Toronto

Jeanne Beker Lifestyle Editor

Chef Colin Henderson (left) with Chef Daniel Boulud.

Greatculinary experiences are often so sensually profound that they stay with us forever — like the time Daniel Boulud was about six or seven while on vacation with his parents in Brittany, France. They took him to a fancy restaurant where they ordered a giant platter of fruits de mer, or seafood. “It was the most magical moment,” the world-famous French chef fondly recalls. “The service and all the pomp and circumstance… It was just so unique.” Perhaps it was that memorable, heady experience that ignited the young Boulud’s dreams of becoming a culinary master. Though he never usually went to fine-dining establishments with his parents, he did grow up on a farm outside of France’s Lyon — a city that boasts some of the world’s best cuisine. His family grew and harvested a lot of their food on their farm and went to the farmers’ market weekly. “There was always an opportunity to follow the seasons and go to the field and forage and harvest,” he happily reminisces. “And we were always entertaining family, friends and neighbours. I don't know if that’s the reason I chose to become a chef, but I will say that most of my passion for cooking came from growing up around food.”

Today, chef Daniel Boulud’s name is synonymous with the finest French cuisine on the planet, and his empire of myriad tony restaurants in New York, Palm Beach, Miami, Toronto, Montreal, Singapore, The Bahamas, the Berkshires and Dubai continue to impress and delight even the most die-hard foodies. At 68, almost four decades after moving to New York, it’s been a life well lived in both kitchens and boardrooms for Boulud: He’s one of those rare individuals who is both an artist and an entrepreneur, though he never had any formal business training. He started out apprenticing at one of Lyon’s best restaurants as a teenager, and while it was a lot of hard work, he claims the mentorship he received was instrumental in nourishing his growth as a restaurateur. Besides his fascination with what it took to create a successful fine-dining establishment, it was Boulud’s intense love of people that inspired him most. “I've always learned to please people, and when I started cooking, I felt that I was choosing a profession that really took pleasure at giving pleasure,” he

explains. “I not only loved the hospitality aspect, but also the camaraderie, the collective work we did together in the kitchen as a team. I always enjoyed that. Because you know, you can be the greatest chef in the world, but you still need a trained team around you. And there’s always a constant flow of giving and teaching and learning that goes along with that.”

Boulud credits all his mentors with instilling in him a grounded sense of what a great restaurant must encompass to not only survive but thrive. “I had four of the greatest chefs in the world as my mentors, and I think each one had an impact on how I approach the restaurant business,” he says. “It’s all about the art of giving, the art of cooking, the act of welcoming, the art of wine serving. I think I sometimes pay more attention in my restaurants than I pay in my home,” he laughs.

“Of course, my home is run in a very organized way because your home is truly your refuge. But a restaurant is the refuge of others, so we have to make sure that the place always feels right.”

With the constant focus on feeding people in the finest ways in all his diverse establishments, one might think that this prolific chef would simply take a break from kitchen duties during his downtime. But Boulud insists he so adores cooking that he really can’t stay away from it. His secret to happily cooking for his own family is to cook super simply. “I cook with flavour and I make sure that I bring flavour to every step of the preparation, whether it’s seasoning, roasting, steaming, grilling or basting,” he tells me. “And the vegetables, the herbs, the spices, the sauces — whatever will bring flavour to the preparation, whether it's a humble chicken or a nice fish. I like to cook with ease. I want to be relaxed when I cook at home. I don't try to make anything fancy, but I make things delicious and soulful. That's what I grew up with.”

For this gourmand, soul food has to do with the essence of his native cuisine, and what it is to prepare food with love. How does he explain the continuing appeal of authentic French food, even though we’ve all been exposed to so many styles of cooking by now? “French cuisine can live with you forever,” he opines. “Some cui-

I like to cook with ease. I want to be relaxed when I cook at home. I don't try to make anything fancy, but I make things delicious and soulful.

sine can entertain you on occasion. Some cuisine can be interesting to discover, but not always adapts to your diet or your lifestyle. I think French cuisine encompasses all elements of cooking. But that doesn’t mean that French cuisine is the only cuisine one should have.” And since one cannot — and should not — live on French cuisine alone, Boulud boasts a wonderful sushi restaurant that’s part of his New York empire: Joji. Another refreshing fact about the chef is that he’s adamant about taking the snobbery out of fine dining. “It doesn’t matter if it's Indian, Japanese, Vietnamese, Mexican, Peruvian, Italian, French, Spanish. I just love good cuisine, but good cuisine doesn’t necessarily mean fancy cuisine,” he insists. “It’s just delicious, soulful food, and it tells a good story. I think when I cook French, I feel that I need to relate to the food in a way; it either takes me back somewhere or I'm inspired by a recipe that I have either learned or have heard of, or one that I am searching for.”

What seems to intrigue Boulud the most these days, and what keeps him in the fine French dining game, is the 300-year history of French cooking, and the fact that some of the greatest chefs over the centuries have reinvented it. “I think French cooking is always in a state of reinvention and yet, French cooking is always trying to go deep in its roots,” he muses. “What's unique about this cuisine compared to all the other cuisines is that it runs the gamut from three-star fine dining to cuisine bourgeoise to cuisine regionale to bistro cuisine to brasserie cuisine. We even have the kind of cuisine that you eat at home at festive times. We have classic cuisine and modern cuisine. And French cuisine loves to adapt ingredients from other cuisines.”

Boulud also appreciates that French cuisine, first and foremost, was created to go with different wines, to create the perfect pairings. “Sometimes the dish exists and we have to find the right wine to go with it,” he notes. I’m personally impressed by the sense of courage and confidence that truly great chefs always demonstrate in the kitchen, so I ask Boulud if he considers himself to be adventurous and brave. “Oh, yeah!” he shoots back. “I would not be in North America if it wasn't for that. I could have ended up just where I started cooking. But one thing my mentor chef told me is that I was choosing a wonderful profession that could take me anywhere around the world. It doesn’t matter where you are: You can always cook and show people your talent. And you will always be interested in the community because you are part of something new.”

Boulud says every time a new chef comes to town, you can see the community welcoming and supporting their talent, no matter where they’re from. And that, to him, is very heartening. It reminds him of how wholeheartedly he was embraced by New York City, when he first moved there all those years ago, and how wonderfully Canadians have embraced him as well. Boulud’s wildly successful Café Boulud at Toronto’s posh Four Seasons Hotel is proof positive. And these days, he’s especially proud of chef de cuisine Colin Henderson, who rose through the ranks at the hotel, and is now doing a great job running the restaurant. “I think for us, what we really enjoy is to be able to mentor and to promote,” explains Boulud. “Colin had the chance to be mentored well and to be promoted, so he really grew into his position. He knows the hotel and restaurant very well, but he also really knows the cooking. I want every chef to be

able to integrate their creativity and knowledge into our creativity and knowledge. His contribution may not represent the entire menu or the entire direction, but it’s part of it. And I think that's what's very important, that the program — or menu — is created together.”

It’s that feeling of teamwork that the affable Boulud particularly savours, and he stresses that it's a team effort based on trust and collaboration that contributes to the success of his 20 restaurants. Chef Colin Henderson, for example, has full responsibility in his role at Café Boulud — for everything from food to finances. “He must cook responsibly and buy food responsibly. He must prepare food responsibly and mentor responsibly. There are a lot of things that make a great chef. It's not just what you have on the plate,” states Boulud. “Too many restaurants have closed because they don't understand the importance of the business. And financially, they cannot sustain the cooking. Cooking is definitely a beautiful thing, but it's not a fantasy. It's a harsh reality when it comes to financially succeeding and financially surviving.”

As hard-nosed a businessman as Boulud can be, he has an extremely soft spot in his heart when it comes to helping the less fortunate, and his charitable work has become legendary. Over the last 25 years, with his Sunday Supper gala fundraisers at his beloved namesake restaurant “Daniel,” Boulud has helped raise $23 million for the “Citymeals on Wheels” program, of which he’s co-president. And he did a beautiful thing during the height of the pandemic, which was such a horrible time for so many restaurant owners: He, in partnership with SL Green, initiated a charity called Food First, where he and his staff served meals to hospital workers and other frontline responders. “From the time I was a young apprentice, we always helped the less fortunate,” he says. “We made sure they had people to count on, to make sure they were okay. I think charity has always been a big part of my life.”

Inspiring future generations to appreciate fine dining is also of utmost importance to the chef. Maybe it’s the sweet memory of his own fine-dining experience as a child, but, contrary to what some might think, he believes that children should be exposed to fancy restaurants by the time they’re about six or seven years old. “The best thing you can do for your children is to take them to a place they have never seen. Take them to a place that will make them think about the experience for life,” he advises, enthused by the notion of educating children about food. “In all our restaurants, we enjoy having children. And we always make sure that the children are happier than the parents. We show them the kitchen, we take pictures with them. We want them to feel entertained and that we value their presence.”

There’s no question that chef Boulud’s culinary talents are only exceeded by the generosity of his spirit. What would he like to be remembered for? “I think I’d like to be known as a good man who’s done wonderful things for my profession and for people,” he reflects. “And also, for mentoring and hiring and giving and living the life. I think I have a certain joy in me, but I also want to be remembered for the places I've created that have touched people’s lives. I just hope I can continue to grow and bring continued excitement to others.”

There

are a lot of things that make a great chef. It's not just what you have on the plate.

BEHIND C SED S

Bathrooms are certainly the smaller, private spaces in a home, but when they’re flawlessly designed and superbly executed — like these exquisite rooms created by master designer Lori Morris — they’re undeniably as dynamic and impactful as shared quarters.

By Lisa van de Geyn

Barré

Photography by Brandon

the

So, it really shouldn’t come as a surprise to learn that her personal space is as effervescent and sublime as the rooms she creates for clients here and abroad. When we spoke about her ensuite for this special Kitchen & Bath issue, the inimitable icon shimmered with passion. “My bathroom is part of my bedroom and I call it heaven because that’s what it is when you walk into this pink masterpiece,” she says. “My palette is dreamy, with pink marble everywhere. Not only is it sumptuous and romantic, but it has the perfect calming effect. It’s really very beautiful.”

Bathrooms, of course, are classically the smaller, more intimate rooms in a home, but that doesn’t mean they lack the striking details and remarkable features seen in shared spaces. “For me, once we’re in the bathroom, we can infuse the layers we want, the sexiness and elegance we want and the interest we want, and put it together based on what the client is looking for,” Morris says. “These spaces make it easy to incorporate all kinds of genres and styles because you’re not dealing with fabrics and sofas and pillows; you’re not dealing with softness in terms of fabrics. What you create in this room doesn’t have to match the rest of the house or tie

mate rooms in a home, but that doesn’t mean they lack the striking

The vivacious Lori Morris is fervour and glamour personified. Known for colour and grandeur, drama and sparkle, the master designer is flawless and sexy, and so is the couture work she does for her ultra-lively firm she’s cultivated into one of the most coveted design houses, House of LMD.

most coveted design houses,

into the cohesiveness of the principal spaces — here, you get to shut the door, so anything can happen when it comes to design,” she says ardently. “Do you want a tranquil spa-like space with a neutral palette and sumptuous marble, or are you drawn to more soft and romantic bathrooms filled with stunning floral mosaic floors or walls and beautiful statementmaking hardware? There’s flexibility for design in bathrooms. Once you establish budget and design parameters, the options are truly endless. If you can dream it, we can do it.”

Morris is gifted when working with a black-and-white palette. The hues figure prominently in her signature celebrated “Sexy French” style, which exudes a certain effortless aura that feels both exhilarating and at ease. It’s obvious in one Art Deco-inspired bathroom with soft-blue accents. “This room features white polished lacquer cabinetry with black polished lacquer strapping and detailing that’s accompanied by a blackand-white marble floor and beautiful brass and crystal faucets. We added a touch of blue because sometimes clients like that slick black-and-white Chanel-inspired feel, and sometimes they like to add a bit of flair and colour, which is always the attraction to this palette,” she explains. In this space, the

blue evokes happiness. “Then there’s the Murano-glass light fixture that has an opulent black vein through it. It’s simply spectacular.”

In another impeccably designed Art Deco-inspired bathroom that radiates sophistication and allure, it’s a delicate hint of pink that’s used to inject added appeal to the white-andblack palette. Here, a black lacquer high-polished vanity with dazzling black lacquered strapping detailing around the mirrors — complete with an applique moulding overtop — takes centre stage. Two hanging fixtures with iridescent gold glass shades, a marvellous charcoal-grey sparkling Deco wallpaper and an exceptionally gorgeous black-, white-and-pink striped floor are just some of the details that create undeniable drama in a small area.

These kinds of details truly turn Morris’s designs into masterpieces. Take the incredibly posh tour de force that is a gentleman client’s bathroom. It features glorious limestone archways, a spectacular black marble diamond-patterned floor and a black lacquer with brass inlay vanity, finished with black-and-gold faucets. “We married the limestone carving and archway around the vanity, making it a beautiful focal

“When I work with pink, I opt for a hue like blush pink that’s neutral and more soothing. The connotation is that pink is always very feminine, but the shade used in this space offers the perfect balance. It has a luscious and romantic feel.”

point. The extravagant black-gloss-lacquered doors lead into his boudoir. It’s really gorgeous,” she says.

Also designed for a young man — this time a teenaged sports aficionado — the moody black bathroom with the basketball theme is statement-making, with a basketball-bullseye design on the wall in the shower. “We also did a black-and-white floor with a black lacquer vanity and black marble countertop, and we enhanced the look and feel with a black-and-charcoal wallpaper to give the room another layer.”

There’s no doubt Morris has perfected the black-and-white ensuite, but not every client requests the dramatic duo. Sometimes a marvellously pink bathroom can be a calming refuge for the homeowner. “When I work with pink, I opt for a hue like blush pink that’s neutral and more soothing,” she says. “The connotation is that pink is always very feminine, but the shade used in this space offers the perfect balance. It has a luscious

and romantic feel.” This room has gorgeous pink snakeskin

and romantic feel.” This room has gorgeous pink snakeskin wallpaper, a vanity with white marble and gold veining, a brass faucet and a pink-and-white-tiled floor. “It’s done all in blush tones and creams and it’s just so stunning with the marble clover focal point in the bathtub. It’s breathtaking when you see it,” Morris tells me.

“Whether I’m doing an ultra-modern bathroom, something very romantic or something in between, it’s always about using LMD’s signature style of designing in layers upon layers. Instead of using paintings and fabrics and softer textures, in these spaces we bring in stunning palettes, coloured marbles in different designs, spectacular hardware, gorgeous fixtures and other details that push the envelope and keep the design timeless and elegant,” she says keenly. It’s true — whether she’s designing a palatial kitchen or a petite powder room, every space she creates is vibrant, chic and full of panache.

“It’s always about using LMD’s signature style of designing in layers upon layers. In these spaces we bring in stunning palettes, coloured marbles in different designs, spectacular hardware, gorgeous fixtures and other details that push the envelope and keep the design timeless and elegant.”

A POINT OF PRIDE

By Adriana Ermter Photography by Ryan Fung

Duringthe 1970s, in a woodshop in a small town in Poland, Walter Guzda began creating and selling one-of-a-kind, hand-crafted furniture. Each of his pieces were special and thoughtfully handmade using only the best quality materials — he was a big believer in ensuring his wares would last a lifetime. Fast-forward 50 years, and today Walter’s humble beginnings and years of putting his heart and soul into creating exceptional pieces have culminated into Flexwood Fine Cabinetry. The company, run by Walter’s son Martin Guzda, specializes in custom kitchen, bathroom and interior-living-space design, and they service clients in the Greater Toronto Area. “My dad passed his craft and remarkable craftsmanship skills on to me,” says Guzda. While Walter remains involved, Martin has been at the helm of the family business since 2008. “We’ve evolved over the years,” he says. “But our tradition of

quality and family pride is still the same. We only produce products that we’d use in our own homes.”

Guzda’s philosophy on his materials and work is especially evident in one of Flexwood Fine Cabinetry’s latest design projects — a two-storey home in the Mineola neighbourhood of Mississauga, Ont. Located near Port Credit, south of the Queen Elizabeth Way and north of the Lakeshore, this five-bedroom, eightbathroom transitional-stye abode sits on a quiet and picturesque street. Its prestigious area is highly coveted for its proximity to the lake and amenities, and for its exclusive, custom, multimillion-dollar real estate. “You can walk to restaurants, bars and shops, which gives the area a real European vibe,” says Guzda. “Plus, the homes here have big lots and are very high-end and desirable.”

Equally desirable is Guzda’s work, which is featured

Half-century-long traditions — combined with a keen eye and intricate details — are all part of the craftsmanship Flexwood Fine Cabinetry offers.

throughout the home’s sprawling 9,000 square feet of living space. From acrylic-and-woodpanelled walls and a custom-made wine cellar to divine bathroom vanities and his use of metal, glass and fluted detailing, Guzda’s sophisticated touch can be seen and felt throughout. This is especially true deep in the heart of the home — in the kitchen.

Clean and chic in aesthetic, and drenched in cool white and grey hues, the 500-square-foot space offers more than just a place to cook — it’s a marvelous work of art. Here, tinted glass, mirrors and solid metals merge. Two pantries are anchored with integrated LED lighting, appliances are panelled to match the cabinetry (creating a seamless look) and the waterfall kitchen island is draped in a combination of natural quartzite stone and painted wood. “It took us three months from start to finish to create the kitchen, and I really enjoyed putting everything together,” he says. “We worked with

“It’s about the details. I get excited about uniqueness. We’re never cookie-cutter. I put my thoughts, ideas, skill and craftsmanship behind our projects.”

different materials, so the space has intricate details that you don’t see every day.”

These details include two spice drawer pullouts on either side of the cooktop for easy access and adjustable shelving with a non-slip base for practicality. Guzda added a servery between the dining room and the kitchen, complete with a sink and a countertop for additional capacity and convenience. There’s stunning cladding on the staircases and walls instead of wainscotting for a unique hit of luxury, and LED lighting was subtly incorporated around cabinetry and the fridge for softer ambiance, giving off a pretty, framed effect. The fluting detail incorporated into the kitchen’s top drawers has a reeded design that catches the eye. “It looks like a routed-out pattern,” says Guzda. “Like an architectural column from the Roman period.”

Not only do these bespoke elements set Flexwood Fine Cabinetry apart, but they are also deeply rooted in the company’s history — Guzda’s father was always so meticulous when it came to his intricate work. Now, together, the pair, along with their team, have the knowledge, experience and ingrained craftsmanship — be it for budget, design plans or renderings — to provide clients with any design style in any room of any home.

“The first thing we do is identify how we can make it happen, from function all the way to the materials,” says Guzda. “And then, it’s about the details. I get excited about uniqueness. We’re never cookiecutter. Our projects, this project, was something I put my thoughts, ideas, skill and craftsmanship behind.”

There’s nothing quite like a spectacularly designed estate that’s both sensorily engaging and super inviting — this one strikes the perfect balance. We spoke to designer Robin Nadel about how she expertly infused warmth and comfort into this palatial abode.

By Lisa van de Geyn

Photography by Nicole Aubrey

ForRobin Nadel, it’s not just about creating a beautifully designed, perfectly appointed space that exceeds her clients’ requirements, expectations and aspirations. The designer — one of two principals along with Harvey Wise at Wise Nadel Design — profoundly cares about infusing warmth, comfort and practicality into the homes of the families she works with.

A dynamic couple with three young children resides in this newly built 13,000-square-foot above-grade manor in Mississauga, Ont. Located in a prestigious neighbourhood filled with estate properties backing onto wooded ravines, this home was designed with luxury and warmth top of mind. “We embarked on this project to create a beautiful environment that the family could grow into. They enjoy hosting friends and relatives and wanted a hotel-chic place where they could gather and feel at ease and have fun,” says Nadel. “Overall, the homeowners were exemplary; committed to high-level design, open to new ideas and they ultimately trusted the professionals who were guiding them.”

The dream team includes Richard Wengle Architect, Bosque Landscape Architecture and PURE Building Group, a high-end construction firm specializing in executing meticulously designed and constructed statement homes. “This was the first of many projects we’re working on together. There’s a clear alignment between our offices — our common goal was to execute a beautifully designed home and to ultimately provide exceptional service to our clients,” she says. “The execution of this house, with all of its complexity and detail, wouldn’t have been possible without a builder who shares the same commitment to their clients.”

That complexity and detail are unmistakable in the statement-making architectural features in this home. At the centre of it all is the spacious and airy kitchen with its striking, contrasting elements and remarkable use of materials. “The selected stone slabs have an inherent warmth and we used matte textures instead of polished for a softer, more casual look. We also opted for lighter, warmer tones in the cabinetry, which are accented with black hardware to create contrast,” she says. Nadel is proficient when it comes to using black to accentuate the architecture and design. The neutral shade she selected for the cabinetry and countertops works flawlessly with the matte-black metal hood and the

black ribbed-glass doors leading to the servery and prep kitchen area. Even the island sink itself is a black stone composite surrounded by a moody black quartzite. “There’s definitely a playful connection between all these elements — the hood, the sink, the hardware and the doors — they all work with each other exquisitely and really play off one another while offering a distinct contrast in the streamlined space.”

You can certainly argue the most prominent features of the kitchen are the two 12-foot islands — one that’s used as a working surface, the other for family and guests to sit around for meals. Both offer plenty of storage for cookware, appliances and various kitchen accessories. “Two islands in a kitchen are truly impressive features,” Nadel says, adding that the surfaces are clad in valentino

quartzite with a brass reveal around the perimeter of each island. “They’re designed perfectly to accommodate the need for extra surfaces in the room, and there’s a clear separation in terms of which one is used for prep, and which one is used for hosting.”

Above the islands, Nadel selected a playful, asymmetrical light fixture designed by Zac Ridgley. “The gem pendant is a custom creation and installation that’s meant to bring an artful nature into the space,” she says.

Moving upstairs, Nadel seamlessly transitions her design from the public spaces of the main floor and kitchen to the couple’s private suite. “I designed their bedroom to be a calming sanctuary with light, soothing tones. For their bathroom, I wanted to evoke that same serene and tranquil feeling, while ensuring

functionality and durability like I did in the kitchen.” First, she chose to work with exceptionally beautiful, large-scale porcelain slabs for the walls and custom cut them into a stunning mosaic for the floor. “It’s a combination of white onyx interwoven with a soft-blue onyx done in a beautiful pattern. It’s the intricacy of the pattern that pulls all the tones of the room together,” she says, adding that the blue onyx is also used in the bathroom’s showstopping fireplace and shower feature wall. As for the rest of the room, Nadel brilliantly incorporated a mirrored effect with matching his-andher vanities on opposing walls; the top drawers are clad in the same quarzo bianco stone that makes up the countertop. “It’s a very luxurious look while being extremely durable. Even the top of the vanity and bathtub’s faucet handles match the same stone.” Finally, in this spacious bathroom, a 12-foot shower stands centre stage, complete with hisand-her temperature controls and separate rain heads. “There are not too many bathrooms that have the space to accommodate a gorgeous chaise lounge.” That in and of itself is the epitome of luxury!” exclaims Nadel.

Now that the project is finished, Nadel says her clients are proudly living in their home and enjoying their new space. “They were such a big part of the process and so passionate about the design and their reaction to the house and all that we created has been overwhelmingly positive,” she says. “This home truly has presence and even though it’s grand, we were successful in creating a really warm and inviting home, perfect for this incredible family.”

bronze AGE THE

A well-appointed home in Toronto’s Lawrence Park neighbourhood fi nally gets its pièce de résistance kitchen, thanks to the professionals at Binns kitchen + bath design.

By Silvana Longo

Photography by Barry MacKenzie

Occasionallyyou come across a luxurious, perfectly planned and intricately designed kitchen that stops you in your tracks — one that’s a veritable feast for the eyes. For Erica Sibley and Beverley Binns, designers at Binns kitchen + bath design, this space truly measures up. “This is my all-time favourite kitchen that I’ve designed,” Sibley says proudly.

Sibley and Binns were called in when the homeowners of this Lawrence Park abode were looking to elevate their 285-square-foot kitchen to match the transitional elegance of the rest of their lavish, professionally decorated home. They also needed experts who could tackle the kitchen’s less-than-ideal floor plan, poor lighting and lack of organization. “At the time, the couple was on the cusp of becoming empty nesters, and they planned on doing more entertaining, so their new kitchen had to be beautiful,

very functional and completely organized,” says Sibley, whose design solutions consisted of optimizing cabinetry, focusing on storage and correcting the layout. “We increased the flow of the kitchen by dividing it in zones and relocated some of the appliances in favour of improving workflow,” she explains.

While the design duo’s many decisions contributed to heightening the functional aspects of the kitchen, it’s really the custom details they employed that truly shine. At first glance, the mosaic backsplash that incorporates the colour palette and floor pattern might be perceived as the inspiration for the design, but Sibley says it was actually innovative lighting that first captured her clients’ attention. “From the onset, the homeowners fell in love with the gold-bronze colour in the LED light that runs in the channel in the cabinetry,” she says. “It’s the perfect warm, low-level ambient lighting that I knew I needed to include, then build on in a modern way.

So, that’s exactly what Sibley and Binns did. From the matte-blackand-gold fixtures that echo the trio of sculptural lighting above the island, to the herringbone pattern on the ceramic floor that speaks to the chevron-patterned backsplash, there are oh-so-many custom details

that stimulate the senses and command attention. “One of the most standout pieces is a built-in white-oak, surfboard-shaped table cantilevered off the island with a 12-millimetre quartz countertop,” she says. Another unique design choice is the custom wood-slat wall for the television, which was meticulously designed so that the TV is completely flush in it. As for how they used colour, they opted for a warm grey finish on some of the cabinets, and a gold-bronze-metal colour on the cabinetry below the cooktop. They also chose Calacatta porcelain countertops with stunning brown and grey veining. “I just started playing with all these shades and it came together beautifully,” says Sibley.

As in any kitchen design, the layering of lighting is paramount to the beauty and function of this space. Besides a repositioning of recessed lighting and task lighting under the wall cabinets, Sibley and Binns positioned three exquisite sculptural light fixtures over the island. Each piece overlaps asymmetrically, emphasizing the intricate layering of all the kitchen elements and textures that make this the true beating heart of the home.

While so many elements fell into place, thanks to experts from Binns kitchen + bath design skill and the homeowners’ trust in the process,

there were challenges that were met on this design journey. For instance, the pair opted to fill in a window (facing a neighbour’s brick wall) in favour of continuous cabinetry on one wall. By doing this, they ran the risk of creating a bowling-alley effect in the kitchen, but decided to do the wall slats on the television wall vertically and added a reeded bronze glass cabinet to contrast the horizontal elements.

These are just a few of the design details that catch the eye in this pièce de résistance kitchen. There are a lot of luxurious touches that only architectural elements can bring to the space. In the end, the homeowners are enjoying the heightened function in their masterpiece of a kitchen with friends and family. As for Sibley, when asked to single out her favourite feature, she fills with pride. “I can’t name just one thing,” she says with a smile. “I really do love everything about this spectacular kitchen.”

Style on One Storey

By Adriana Ermter Photography by Negin Milan

Pow”

may not be the first word that comes to mind when you think of a tear-down and rebuild. But, according to Ruby Gill, a real estate agent for The Agency Oakville, that’s the word that comes to mind when you walk through the front door of 221 Ascot Place in Burlington. And she’s right. “Homeowners often think that only big is beautiful. But with this home, there’s beauty and a real ‘pow factor’ from the exterior to the interior,” Gill says. “It is all about the design details. That’s what makes it so wonderfully special.”

Nestled in south Burlington’s pretty Aldershot neighbourhood and just a short walk away from Lake Ontario’s waterfront, this bungalow is an absolute standout. Situated on an expansive lot surrounded by mature trees, the home’s white exterior is punctuated with grey and wood accents, exuding a calm Hamptons-like vibe. Framed by four columns, the front porch has a picture-perfect outdoor seating area that overlooks the well-manicured front lawn. The light grey asphalt driveway, conveniently positioned to the side, complements the exterior’s aesthetic and parks six vehicles comfortably, paving the way into the home’s attached garage.

When you step into the space, you’re met with white wall panelling and earthy-toned herringbone slate tile floor that shines beneath a large, multi-circle, metal chandelier. Off to the right is an expansive laundry room that doubles as a mud

Bungalows are highly sought after, and for good reason — these spacious properties exude sophistication while maximizing space. Here’s what Ruby Gill from The Agency Oakville told us about this brilliant Burlington, Ont.-based abode.

room. Across wide, plank hardwood floors, the open-concept living room and kitchen beckon.

Contemporary in style, these two rooms blend beautifully with their neutral grey, black and white tones accented with hints of metal, stone and wood. Creamy, pewter and steel-hued furniture border the dining room table and surround the living room’s gas fireplace — a warm, cozy addition that is embedded into the room’s floor-to-ceiling panelled feature wall that’s finished with a wood-beam mantle. All combined, it is the perfect juxtaposition to the kitchen’s sleek grey, black and white design. The gourmet kitchen’s full-height white upper cabinets gleam against its lower black counterparts. Silver hardware mixes beautifully with the dark pewter pot filler located overtop of the five-burner gas range stove. Wood panel detailing in the hood vent and against the white marble backsplash echoes the living room’s interior materials, while white with grey-veined quartz countertops give the space a clean and fresh aesthetic. “There’s a Fisher & Paykel double drawer dishwasher, which can be run separately using just the top or the bottom, a warming drawer in the stove to keep cooked dishes nice and hot, as well as convenient built-in sockets in the island to plug in countertop appliances or to use as a charging station for the family’s devices,” she says.

Down the hallway, off the main living space, are three of the home’s five bedrooms. The primary is an airy, sunlit, open retreat

Everything from the primary bedroom and living room to the kitchen and exterior is sexy, serene and packs a huge punch.

that’s roomy enough to hold a cozy seating area alongside a king-sized bed. Its ensuite, one of three full bathrooms, exudes a spa-like atmosphere. Its heated white-with-greyveined marble floor is mirrored across the super-sized shower walls. A large gun-metal rain shower head works beautifully with the shower’s grey pentagon-shaped tile floor and black seating bench. A large white soaker tub, double sinks, marble countertops and a modern light fixture bookended by two cylinder-shaped silver-framed mirrors complete the Zen style.

“This entire house — everything from the primary bedroom and living room to the kitchen and exterior — is sexy, serene and packs a huge punch,” says Gill. “Nothing was spared when it came to design and function. From the gorgeous backyard featuring the bungalow’s third fireplace and covered deck to the interior’s 14-foot alcove above the dining room table, this home is truly a gem that was meticulously designed. And because there is no second floor, every room, every space is spread out and gives off a very expansive, yet inclusive feel that you just don’t find in many homes. It’s easy to imagine yourself living here because you instantly feel like you are home.”

Home AWAY FROM HOME

A Forest Hill pied-à-terre designed by the principals of Designtheory o ers the ultimate five-star boutique experience.

By Silvana Longo

Photography by Valerie Wilcox

When this project came along, it was the ideal outlet for that pent-up reservoir of creative ideas and heightened inspiration waiting in the wings. And the results are exceptional. This was precisely the case when a couple based outside of Toronto approached principal designers Leanne Tammaro and Adolphina Czyrsky, founders of award-winning design studio Designtheory, about renovating their midtown townhouse. Beyond the goal of having their own place when visiting their nearby daughters and granddaughter, the well-travelled couple wanted to combine the ultimate entertaining experience with their own private city refuge. “The main floor is about entertaining, and as you ascend to the other levels of the house, it becomes their unique personal space,” says Leanne. It was also important to the homeowners to create spaces that were specific to their design aesthetic: a type of modern elegance inspired by their stays in luxury hotels from their many trips abroad. The couple wanted their pied-à-terre to have an upscale hotel lounge vibe. It didn’t take long for them to realize that

Creating beautiful, functional interiors for clients that speak to their lifestyle is the cornerstone of any successful design business.

the duo at Designtheory could masterfully translate that vision into bespoke design, delivering a quiet luxury that stands the test of time. “They gave us carte blanche early on,” says Adolphina, revealing that kind of trust yields the best design possible. In the end, the design duo renovated the entire three floors of the townhome — an exercise in contrast, luxury materials and layers upon layers of details that stimulate yet soothe.

The kitchen is the main-floor attraction and the goal for this space was strategic colour blocking with an explosion of finishes from custom-stained oak, multi-finish marbles and mixed metals. The initial sightline upon entering the foyer is a striated waterfall island which is two-thirds marble, separated by a satin brass inlay with the remaining onethird fully clad in porcelain. The use of black on the countertop, matte-black fixtures and a Silgranit sink succeeds

in creating a bar-like area allowing the showpiece island — which is heated — to shine. The unexpected warmth emanating from the island during cocktail hour is a welcome touch. All lighting is thoughtfully layered and dimmable, casting the perfect glow, while their favourite music plays in the background, thanks to concealed speakers hidden within the drywall. Design details thoughtfully delineate the entertaining area from the working space; the visual appeal is matched by the attention given to the interior workings and function of the kitchen.

Down the hall, the powder room is a tiny space with big personality. “We clad the wall behind the sink with a beautifully leathered rich green marble called Avocatus. To save space in such a tight room, we had the sink fabricated from the Avocatus slab so it wouldn’t protrude into the room and designed an integrated lowered ledge

The duo at Designtheory masterfully translates vision into bespoke design, delivering a quiet luxury that stands the test of time.

within the sink for soap storage,” says Adolphina. “If we had a dropped-in typical undermount sink, we would have lost the luxury appeal,” says Leanne. The wall-mounted faucets and bold geometric-patterned wallpaper from Phillip Jeffries in Commanding Charcoal further delights the eye. “It’s all wood veneer with a satin gold detail running through it,” Adolphina describes. Again, texture and layers play a big part in this small space. “We installed alabaster sconces on top of the wallpaper, layering yet another natural material next to the marble, just to really take it to the next level when it comes to luxe.”

While the main floor has darker, moodier finishes with accents of light, the reverse was done upstairs. “Marble jambs and double-integrated sinks and a custom vanity in high-contrast tones show the connection to the lower level and allows this to be a separate yet cohesive space,” says Leanne. Here, a private oasis reigns supreme. Reeded glass doors for the shower and water closet add a traditional element, and a haven of calm awaits with a separate bathtub room wrapped in an ethereal wallcovering with a painterly water-colour effect. “Silvery, white and blue-grey tones give that spa-like feel and add a visual layer of softness to a room with mostly hard surfaces,” notes Adolphina.

On the third floor, the three-piece bathroom adjacent to the office has a masculine feel. “Deep, moody tones define this space as we combined shades of brown with black,” says Leanne. An offcut piece of marble set the tone for the selection of materials for this room, as well as the decision to forgo sconces and install a large custom backlit mirror. “The integrated marble sink perfectly showcased the unique gold veining of the marble beautifully, providing repetition in detail, but also by adding yet another elegant touch to a small space,” says Leanne. The vanity was custom designed using a saturated mink paint colour with bronzed mirror panels on the inset of the drawers. Walls were covered in an abstract Aztec design wallpaper meant to mimic fabric and create a feeling of softness.

Leanne and Adolphina say the couple were elated when they were presented with their home away from home following the renovation. The luxe hotel vibe fits perfectly with their love of entertaining, and their personal spaces evoke a truly romantic charm. “Leanne and I are big travellers, and we love to explore and experience beautiful hotels and destinations,” Adolphina says. “We had an opportunity to flex those creative muscles and pull from our bank of ideas and put them into action, and our clients loved the results.”

TheStandard Gold

See what design elements were used for maximum functionality and wow moments in this remarkable Toronto home, imagined and created by the master builders at Luxeme Kitchens Inc.

By Lisa van de Geyn Photography by The Print Market

ThisLawrence Park abode’s kitchen and ensuite are the perfect showcase of how Kam Shamohamadi and his team at Luxeme Kitchens Inc. are defining itself in the industry — it’s all about top-quality craftsmanship, intricate and perfectly executed design, seamless flow and beautiful, standout results.

The homeowner of this 3,500-square-foot, three-storey home in the prestigious Toronto neighbourhood has a large family, and the couple were keen to redo their space. “This was a major renovation — there was only one wall that was kept from the original space,” Kam explains. “Their house was about 50 years old, and it was time for them to renovate and update. They really wanted a fresh look with a new kitchen, vanities, office, bar, as well as other elements that would be modern but with a classic feel at the same time.”

Kam's plan for the couple’s kitchen was not only inspired by the family, but he also wanted to bring in some depth, high style, functionality and drama. He knew the homeowners were looking for an airy space, so he and his team opted for a white kitchen to complement all the natural light that pours in through the

large windows. “We went with white, but I knew I wanted to bring in another tone,” Kam notes. “The couple didn’t like the idea of a black-and-white space — black is classic in a kitchen, but they had that shade in their previous home. Instead, I came up with another idea and offered them a brass-gold look, and they really liked it.” He brought in the shiny hue in the hardware on the cabinetry, the stunning faucets and on the inside of the majestic island. “It’s done in a flexible material — a metal painted in a brass colour done in a ribbed design,” he says, “It’s an element that makes the space pop.” The rest of the exquisite island is done in in MDF-painted, except for the granite waterfall, which matches the backsplash. “Waterfall designs on islands are trendy right now — it’s being done in many kitchens and creates a visually interesting look and feel in the kitchen. It’s a showpiece.”

The gold in the room takes centre stage, but there were other brilliant features Kam and his team purposefully included. They were cognizant of the family’s need for storage and made sure to incorporate plenty of drawers and cabinets for

dishes and pantry items. For the fridge and freezer, they opted for clear glass doors on both — not something that’s necessarily fashionable in kitchen design, but it certainly makes a statement in this open-concept, streamlined space. Perhaps the most significant part of the function of the kitchen is the amount of seating that was created — not only did they incorporate a table and chairs in the eating area, but they added a bench for maximum comfort. They also made sure to include seating at the island — there’s room for five to sit at ease.

Kam and the Luxeme team were also responsible for creating the flawless ensuite in the principal bedroom. The airy, hotel-chic space features a makeup station between the vanities, a glorious freestanding tub and beautiful wall sconces that offer extra light. What makes the biggest statement in the room, though, are the gold pops and the intricately designed cabinetry. “We took inspiration from what we did in the kitchen and brought it into the bathroom,” he says. “We repeated the same brass and gold colours in the faucets and in the detailed inlay around and below the cabinets. Then, much like we did the ribbed design on the kitchen island, we chose to do a fluted façade for the front of the cabinetry. It gives off a similar feeling as the kitchen, but it’s done in a different shade with just a hint of gold. We kept the look consistent, and the work is incredibly intricate.”

In the end, the addition of the grand gold hues and the beautifully detailed features contributed to the modern yet classic feel the homeowners had hoped for. “They really loved the kitchen and bathroom,” Kam says.

“Everyone who worked on this home did a great job — the result is amazing and the transformation blends together perfectly. Theses spaces really stand out.”

ICONIC AN KITCHEN

Dee Dee Taylor Eustace’s latest creation is flawless in every way, but her perfect kitchen is a true work of art. From the matching bronze islands to her state-of-the-art Gaggenau appliances, every inch of this space is a master class in exceptional function and design.

By Lisa van de Geyn

Photography by Angus Fergusson

Ididn’t really want my kitchen to look like a kitchen,” says celebrated architect and interior designer Dee Dee Taylor Eustace with a laugh. “It was important to consider the integrity of the historical building so that the kitchen flows into the overall design, making sure everything is seamless.”

When it came time to restore the 1906 red-brick, Edwardian house, originally designed by architects Symons & Rae at 85 Bedford Road in Yorkville, the historical property was acquired fully restored and then converted to a luxury condominium. Dee Dee is the founder and owner of the prominent firm Taylor Hannah Architect Inc., acting as both the architects

and interior designers for the project. One of the three boutique condo units within the building is a remarkably luxurious, spacious place that’s light, airy and opulent. It’s the epitome of cool, calm and comfortable, and features a bevy of lavish stone, onyx and semi-precious metals, stunningly unique art and cherished pieces she’s collected over the years. Her condo has incredible depth and personality, and her appreciation of iconic design truly starts in her ultra-chic kitchen.

“These rooms are function-driven first and foremost. When designing a kitchen, it all comes down to how people cook, their appliance list, their requirements and what they need to ensure their kitchen is working perfectly for them,” says Dee Dee, who has designed more than 100 kitchens (both residential and commercial) in her 30-plus-year career. “That doesn’t mean aesthetics don’t come into play; of course, function and design are both

inherently vital when it comes to creating a kitchen.” In terms of function in her space, Dee Dee opted for one wall to be dedicated to appliances, and the other side to act as a pantry and storage for dishware.

She has separate fridge and freezer towers, three ovens (including a steam and micro-convection oven), and two appliance garages with a coffee centre and juice station, an induction cooktop, a wine fridge and two dishwashers.

“It’s important to have appliances that have amazing functionality that are incredibly well-designed. Everything in the space should be purposeful and work seamlessly. All appliances are Gaggenau. “They are truly the Rolls-Royce of appliances,” she says.

The first thing you notice upon entering the room are the pair of matching bronze islands that act as showstoppers. “I wanted something on the exterior of the island that would continue to look incredible with wear and tear. The bronze will patina as it ages,”

When designing a kitchen, it all comes down to how people cook, their appliance list, their requirements and what they need to ensure their kitchen is working perfectly for them.

The experience of the condo is to be unique, artistic and full of detail.

she says. “It also has an intricate detail on the top where the bronze protects the corner edge of the black-honed matte granite countertop. It’s just beautiful.” Between the two islands lies a slab of the same black granite and the remainder of the floor is wood. “Whoever is cooking in the middle of the space has a sink on one side, a cooktop on the other and the oven below. There’s also seating on both sides of the islands — there are fabulous antique Cleo Baldon stools from the 1970s — so everyone can have a delicious meal in the kitchen and sit across from one another.”

Another antique piece figures prominently in Dee Dee’s kitchen — it’s a console table she purchased at an auction house 15 years ago. “I wanted to break up that wall and opted to bring this piece in. It’s mahogany marquetry and I recently had it ebonized — I’ve done that with many of my antiques to give them a more modern feel. I also put a new stone top on it for functionality.” On the console are two antique bronze lamps, pulling in the bronze from the island.

Aside from the lamps, Dee Dee included thoughtful lighting throughout the space. While the floor-toceiling doors allow for lots of natural light to stream

into the room, she also incorporated LED strip lighting and LED pot lighting in the beautifully articulated ceiling. Specifically, the area above the island and the cabinetry both have above strip lighting for added ambiance. “These details have slim profiles and are made to fit seamlessly into the ceiling space,” she says. “They’re functional and accentuate the linear details of the kitchen.”

For her cabinetry, Dee Dee kept that linear, streamlined feel — there are no handles on any of the doors. “I wanted the perimeter of the kitchen cabinetry to fade into the background, so I didn’t put hardware on any cabinetry, as I did not want to distract the visual. The interior architecture of the room speaks for itself — the black-framed windows, black-mahogany-stained doors, the matte black faucet and the low-profile casing and baseboard with a simple reveal is the magic.”

“At the end of the day, my approach to design is to look to historical references and to design in today’s materiality,” says Dee Dee. “The experience of the condo is to be unique, artistic and full of detail. I’m really proud of this restored building with its contemporary interpretations. I truly think it’s a masterpiece.”

Casement Windows: Skilled services and a wide variety of quality products have delivered homeowners across the country increased property value, improved curb appeal and enhanced energy efficiency for many years to come.

EUROSTAR WINDOWS & DOORS

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

Ayaz sideboard (left): Perfect for happy hours and hosting, the Ayaz sideboard offers generous storage with two drawers, adjustable shelves and open space, neatly concealed by touch-latch doors. Or style it as a statement-making console in living rooms, halls and entryways.

Charisma console table (right): This charming console table makes an effortless yet elegant statement in spaces designed for conversation and entertainment. Add this collection to rejuvenate your living room decor.

DECORIUM

363 Supertest Road, North York decorium.com 416-736-6120

In 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

FLORALE (below left) is a captivating modern giclee print on wrapped canvas. Expertly handcrafted with gold leafing for a touch of glamour and sophistication, this exquisite piece is gallery-worthy.

RAINE (below right) coffee table features unexpected lines and sophisticated finishes that beautifully highlights its hourglass shape. Its design is a masterful blend of contemporary and traditional styles combined with its faux-linen resin finish. The result is a truly elegant and unique piece.

DISTRICT HOME

126 Tycos Drive, Toronto districthome.com 647-227-3208

DARLENE JANEIRO DESIGN

92A Dunn Street, Oakville darlenejaneirodesign.com

905-339-8118

This stunning hand stool is the perfect one-of-a-kind accent piece.

Bathrooms By Komandor: The elegant mix of modern and retro elements is the perfect blend to create a minimalist look. It’s right on trend with white tiles, black grout and natural wood elements. We can provide you with custom designed cabinetry to fit your space and style and complete this look. Contact us to find out more.

KOMANDOR

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

The New Z10: With the 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 super-automatic specialty coffee machines.

JURA

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

Modern Fresco 1 (right): Inspired by modern abstract art, this rug is hand-knotted in wool and silk, which brings out the unique texture.

Tessuto 1 (left): Influenced from the distinct qualities of the weave that creates the texture fabric design appearance. Handknotted in pure wool.

WEAVERS ART

2 - 120 Tycos Drive, Toronto weaversart.com 416-929-7929

Jennifer Lipkowitz Publisher

RETAIL THERAPY

SAMO Collection is full of pretty pieces you’ll want to add to your wardrobe this spring. Here are some pieces that recently caught our publisher’s eye.

MINI-DRESS (BELOW): We love this mini-dress, which is done in a lightweight tulle fabric. It has a fitted bodice with a full tiered tulle skirt, velvet straps and satin flower trimming.

SHORTS

TWO-PIECE SET

(RIGHT): Houndstooth is trendy, and this vintageinspired crepe-andtweed twopiece set is sublime.

SAMO was created in 2020 by Samira Morshedi, who is passionate about style and believes women should feel confident, comfortable and stylish in everything they wear. Not only does SAMO carry tried, tested and trusted high-quality brands from across the globe, Morshedi has also introduced a collection of products under the SAMO name. Here you’ll find a selection of pieces, from more casual tops and bottoms perfect for updating your wardrobe, to elegant bridalwear and outfits for special occasions. Morshedi and her team are dedicated to keeping up with the hottest trends and they’re committed ensuring customers have a fantastic shopping experience. Shop online or visit the Toronto-based boutique. 3280 Yonge Street, unit 201. samocollectioninc.com @samocollectioninc

JACKET (TOP): Made in Turkey, this shirt-collar jean jacket has front, side and sleeve pockets with a front-snap button closure.

JACKET (BELOW): Double-breasted jacket with slit cuffs and hem. Front buttons and welt pockets with flap.

MINI-DRESS (BELOW): Velvet long-sleeved mini- dress with lapel V-neck and rhinestone heart button closure.

(RIGHT): SAMO’s founder Samira Morshedi in the Strawberry Affairs blouse and jeans with feather boa detail.

(BELOW): Casual with feather boa detail, these mini-shorts are perfect with a tee or tank.

CROP JACKET (LEFT): This dreamy balloonsleeve crop jacket in a stunning green hue has front-button closure, long balloon sleeves, cuffs and flap pockets.

WELCOME TO YOUR NEW BACKYARD

Design Showroom: 12 Wingold Avenue, Toronto | 647-574-2766