Our six judges weigh in on why it’s important to recognize Toronto’s remarkable design talent with the first-ever Living Luxe awards event
A lakefront cottage gets a sophisticated update
Our Nordic Collection is a captivating and culturally rich style of rugs that is inspired by northern European textiles. These rugs are celebrated for their distinct designs, traditional craftsmanship, and historical significance. Each rug is carefully hand-knotted by master artisans using wool fibres.
Available in standard sizes: 4’x6’, 5’x7’, 6’x9’, 8’x10’, 9’x12’, 10’x14’ and some large pieces up to 14’x20’. We can produce your custom size in about three to five months.
– Michael Pourvakil
10 Marmac Dr., Etobicoke, ON M9W 1E6
LIVING LUXE DESIGN SHOW AN EPIC SPACE SHOWCASING THE LATEST DESIGNS & INNOVATIONS IN THE INTERIOR & EXTERIOR DESIGN WORLD FUSED WITH A FASHION FLAIR.
THE TORONTO CONGRESS CENTRE (NORTH BUILDING)
650 DIXON ROAD, ETOBICOKE
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One of the most extraordinary estates in South Richvale. On approximately 1.2 acres, surrounded by parklike grounds with mature tree and a peaceful country ambiance, this magnificent, spacious, and secure mansion embodies ultimate elegance and luxury.
Encompassing approximately fifteen thousand square feet with breathtaking design, the interior offers expansive rooms of exquisite taste and unequaled charm. Beyond its beauty, the home displays incomparable character enhanced by a library, sunroom, two-story family room, and a chef’s gourmet kitchen with top-of-the-line appliances – all facing the private rear garden with enchanting views.
In close proximity to golf and country clubs, some of the country’s best schools, and fine shops and restaurants.
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The Downsview cabinetr y collection is custom crafted in Nor th America and available exclusively through select kitchen design showrooms
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
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.
ESTABLISHED IN 1990 FOR OVER 30 YEARS, WE HAVE SPECIALIZED IN BESPOKE CABINETRY AND FURNITURE.
Discover spacious and refined rental residences with hotel-inspired services and amenities. Live in a coveted location, steps to the new Eglinton LRT, in an established and charming neighbourhood. Come tour our model suites and visit the 36 Brentcliffe leasing centre to learn more about this elevated rental community at Laird & Eglinton.
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.
“What
do you like best about the holiday season?”
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
“It is always such a wonderful and exciting time, when my family and friends come together and relish the opportunity to be in each other’s company. My favourite aspect always comes down to the food and festivities, served with a side of wonderful memories.”
INTERIOR DESIGNER
“The holiday season brings an enchanting atmosphere. People exude less stress, more cheer, and a child-like anticipation for celebrations and gift-giving. It’s a joyful ambience that’s delightful to experience, even in our chilly surroundings. The warmth and festivity in the air are truly heart-warming.”
Volume 5, Number 6, Winter 2023
PHILANTHROPIST
“The holiday season is a special time as we celebrate Christmas in Nassau, embracing both traditional Bahamian customs and Western traditions that include family beach walks and revelling in the vibrant Junkanoo parade, with a hot chocolate in hand.”
FASHION MODEL
“Being that I am now the ‘Holiday Guy,’ so many things have changed for me. Now, it’s the buildup to the holidays. I usually drop a teaser reel early before the season begins and I love the kind and warm comments I receive in support of what’s coming.”
PUBLISHING
PUBLISHER
Jennifer Lipkowitz
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
Anthony Sirianni
ASSISTANT TO THE PUBLISHER
Hana Rakovski
DIGITAL SPECIALIST
Eugene Leiderman
VIDEOGRAPHER
Frazier de Mesa
CONTRIBUTORS
Karen Ashbee, Jenna Bitove-Naumovich
Adriana Ermter, Julie Gedeon, Wendy Helfenbaum, Susan Kelly
Natasha Koifman, Silvana Longo, Phillipa Rispin
Suzanne Rogers, Dr. Philip Solomon, Libby Wildman
CREATIVE
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Jennifer Douglas
EDITORIAL
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Stephanie Whittaker
LIFESTYLE EDITOR
Jeanne Beker
I hope my letter finds you well. I wish you—our readers, clients, supporters and friends—a very Happy Holiday season. This is a magical time of year when we step up the number of social events in our lives. But amidst all the activity and glittery get-togethers, there is, at the same time, an urge to slow down, to breathe deeply and to enjoy quiet time with those we love. I hope you will be able to spend this precious time with your loved ones, creating beautiful memories together.
It’s been a busy few months. We have been working tirelessly on the Living Luxe Design Show and Awards, scheduled for April. We’re very excited about this event. The Awards are conceived to honour and celebrate the vast wealth of design talent in our city. The Design Show will start with our City Couture Event in support of SickKids Foundation. The Awards dinner will take place on April 20. We look forward to welcoming everyone to the event, which runs from April 19 to 21 at the Toronto Congress Centre. Please check our website—www. livingluxedesignshow.com—to pre-register for tickets and learn more about our evening events.
I also want to share the sad news of the passing of my dear friend Gloria. Gloria was an amazing and inspirational woman—selfless, kind and loving. She was a wife and mother, and recently became a proud grandmother. She was so proud of her family and she shared this with me. I was very fortunate to have been able to call her my good friend. Gloria, you will be missed immensely by everyone who had the privilege of knowing you. Your kindness and love for others was so infectious. I know you always loved my magazine, so I am taking this opportunity to dedicate my letter to you. I will always remember you and I miss you so much.
Much love to everyone. Until next time, be well and enjoy this beautiful time of year.
Warmest regards,
Jennifer Lipkowitz Publisher
As Living Luxe’s new editor-in-chief, I am grateful for the warm welcome I’ve received from so many quarters: colleagues, clients, collaborators. They’ve all made me feel so welcome in the Living Luxe family. Thank you, everyone. You sure know how to make a new gal feel at home. Putting together the Winter issue has given me an opportunity to get to know some of you. And I look forward to working with more of you in the new year.
This being the Winter issue, I’m going to make a declaration that rarely issues from the lips of Canadians: I like winter. Okay, I don’t like scraping ice from my car’s windshield or tumbling on slippery sidewalks. Rather, what I like about this cold, dark and seemingly endless season is the opportunity it affords for introspection and slowness. This realization came to me when I began learning about the ancient Chinese concept of yin and yang energies. These two opposites balance each other and are represented by the taijitu, the familiar circular symbol, half of which is black, the other white. Each half holds a dot representing its opposite, meaning that the two energies are complementary; one does not exist without the other.
If yang is out-going, robust and lively (think summer), yin is inward-looking and receptive. Winter is a yin season. Many of us spend the hot months of summer soaking up that yang energy. We spend time outdoors in yang sunshine, needing less sleep than we do during the darker months. Winter, by contrast, sends us indoors. Science tells us that we need more sleep during the winter. We literally and metaphorically turn inward in winter, and it’s this aspect of the season that I like.
This is a time for comfort-food cooking: soups, stews, hearty meals to warm the body. With windows closed, the aroma of cooking fills the kitchen. Some of us change the decor in our homes as winter approaches: thicker rugs underfoot and heavier drapes at windows seem to chase away the drafts. There’s the primal attraction of a crackling fireplace on a winter’s eve and candlelight at dinner. And what could be more inviting than a puffy duvet and a pile of books on a night stand to transform a bedroom into a quiet, contemplative sanctuary?
I understand why so many Canadians dislike our winters. If you’re one of them, may you find time to slow down during this season and enjoy some of its yin energy. May your home be a serene sanctuary, replete with candlelight and puffy bedding. May the holiday period be joy-filled for you. And may you be spared this winter from ever scraping ice from your windshield.
Stephanie Whittaker Editor-in-Chief
Replete with depth and texture, this nightstand, available at ADM Design & Décor, provides the perfect artistic punctuation to a bedroom while offering function in the form of three spacious drawers and built-in outlets. Its rounded sides give it an elegant appeal.
Inspired by designer Bojana Sentaler’s travels through Italy, the newly renovated SENTALER flagship store, with its architecturally designed archway windows in Toronto’s Yorkville Village, is a nod to the designer’s original Toronto showroom, dating to 2009-10. SENTALER and SENTALER MEN coats and accessories are the focus here. Complete with a 10-foot Suri alpaca fabric wall that includes the brand’s signature ribbed sleeve detail to scale, the new SENTALER flagship is an invitation to discover what you’ve been missing in winter outerwear. sentaler.ca
By Silvana Longo
French cookware brand Le Creuset announces the launch of its Noël Collection, which includes a round Dutch oven and a small round cocotte. The Noël round Dutch oven features embossed tree scrollwork on the lid and a gold-tone starshaped knob. With a 4.2-litre capacity, it’s crafted of enamelled cast iron. $475. The Noël small round cocotte is made of stoneware and is also adorned with a star-shaped knob. $80. lecreuset.ca
Take your taste buds back to childhood with Candy Can, a new sparkling drink from The Netherlands that comes in nostalgic flavours, including Bubble Gum, Cotton Candy, Marshmallow and Birthday Cake, among others. And while it may remind you of those candy treats you enjoyed as a child, it’s sugarfree, keto, vegan and gluten-free. In other words, you can enjoy those childhood flavours without an ounce of guilt. drinkcandycan.com
Benjamin Moore has named Blue Nova as its 2024 Colour of the Year. Inspired by the brilliance of a new star formed in space, Blue Nova is a blend of blue and violet. “It creates a true presence in the home whether that be on all four walls, an accent wall or a piece of furniture,” says Benjamin Moore spokesperson Sharon Grech. If you don’t want to commit to a full room, Grech advises trying Blue Nova on cabinetry, a kitchen island or a vanity. benjaminmoore.com
Moore has named Blue Nova as its 2024 Colour of the violet.
A DIALOGUE WITH OBJECTS
British-Kenyan ceramic artist Dame Magdalene Odundo made her debut in Canada with the largestever North American exhibition of her work. The event, at the Gardiner Museum until April 21, 2024, features 20 of Odundo’s vessels, which are fired to a smooth, lustrous sheen. The artist spends months working on each one, its shape referencing the human body: round bellies, elongated necks and a sense of energy and movement. gardinermuseum.on.ca
Natasha Koifman President, NKPR
Winter is an excellent time to focus on small pleasures: comfort cooking, indoor workouts, envisaging your ideal home, and bundling up in Canadian-designed outerwear for snowy strolls.
By Natasha KoifmanWelcome to wintertime, my favourite time of year in Canada, when the season reminds us that coming together brings warmth and comfort. In this edition, we traverse the spectrum of winter wonders: from advanced outerwear for the adrenaline seekers to chic winter footwear that refuses to compromise on style. Dive deeper into the realm of personal wellness with the latest innovation for athome workouts, and experience the warmth of sharing with a unique Japanese cookware designed for meaningful gatherings. As the year’s end heralds new beginnings, let’s also embark on a journey with a distinguished architecture firm, helping you envision your next dream home. Welcome to the essence of winter, where luxury meets life’s simple pleasures.
If you have a product you would like to submit for consideration in our Market Trends roundup, please DM Natasha on Instagram at @natashankpr.
Martha Franco Architecture & Design
The creations of Martha Franco Architecture & Design (MFA&D) stand out as beacons of inspiration. Esteemed for their mastery in sculpting luxury across both residential and commercial spaces, MFA&D isn’t just about grandeur; it’s about tailoring dreams to reality. What sets this illustrious firm apart is the holistic expertise of its team. Every member is adept not only in the nuances of architecture but also in interior design, landscaping, and furniture design, offering clients an integrated, end-to-end design journey. So, as you cozy up this winter and envision your next dream home, let the masterpieces from MFA&D illuminate your path, demonstrating that luxury, in essence, is about crafting a world uniquely your own. marthafranco.ca
TRENDS WWW.NKPR.NET
In a world where at-home workouts have become essential, LIFTED Movement emerges as a game-changer, seamlessly combining function and form. Pioneered by the dynamic mother-daughter duo Kiara and Kate LeBlanc—renowned founders of the iconic wellness brand Saje Natural Wellness—LIFTED is a testament to refined aesthetics and robust functionality. As the new year dawns, ushering in fresh resolutions and aspirations for stronger bodies and minds, their debut Cloud Collection has arrived at the perfect time. With eight meticulously crafted sets of free weights and three sets of kettlebells, each piece finds its home in LIFTED’s elegant movement cart, a statement piece in itself. Elevate your fitness journey and embrace the art of wellness. Now available at LiftedMovement.com
As the premier brand in innovative climbing, skiing, and alpine technologies, Arc’teryx once again showcases its mastery with the Alpha SV jacket, a hero item this winter season. Beyond its formidable waterproof and windproof capabilities, the Alpha SV is engineered for breathability to ensure utmost comfort even during the most intense alpine endeavours—a testament to Arc’teryx’s commitment to equipping adventurers with the best in protection and comfort. arcteryx.com
With half a century of unparalleled craftsmanship under its belt, SOREL presents the Caribou Royal Boot, a tribute to the iconic Caribou™ legacy. This singular creation isn’t just a boot, it’s an emblem of enduring style and unwavering quality. Meticulously crafted with a waterproof exterior, its impeccable insulation promises warmth even on the harshest winter days. As winter arrives in full force, stride confidently with the Caribou Royal Boot, where timeless design meets modern resilience. sorelfootwear.ca
On a recent trip with my husband to Northern California, we were privileged to dine at SingleThread, a Michelin 3-star restaurant helmed by Japanese-trained chef Kyle Connaughton. Here, along with first-class fine dining and impeccable hospitality, we experienced the age-old art of Japanese donabe cooking in handmade clay pots. With every use, the donabe imbues flavours, reminding us that food, at its heart, is about communion, warmth and togetherness. singlethreadfarm.com toirokitchen.com
Jenna Bitove-Naumovich
Contributing Fashion Editor
Jenna Bitove-Naumovich, contributing fashion editor and stylist at The Room at Hudson’s Bay, brings out pieces that are both edgy and timeless for the cold months ahead.
By Jenna Bitove-NaumovichPortrait by Natasha Gerschon
Hair by Tony Pham
Makeup by Jessica Savedra
As winter approaches, we turn our attention to wardrobe necessities to get us through the cold months. This season, we’re seeing a shift in fashion: The looks are more laid-back, but still crafted with luxurious fabrics, textures and silhouettes. Classic coats are de rigueur. Black coats are still making a statement with their cut and style rather than frills. A case in point is the Princess coat from Alaïa. Beautifully cinched at the waist, it flares out at the hips and has a slight bustle in the back. This is a timeless piece to last you season after season. If you’re feeling daring, consider rocking a leather hooded trench coat. JW Anderson’s chocolate-brown distressed version fits the bill. The hooded vibe reflects the season’s laid-back look.
Silvers and sequins add sparkle to cold, dark nights. While they’re a fashion statement, they’re still classic evening attire. Balmain, known for elaborate design and embellishment, still touches on nostalgic dressing with a silversequined bodice and matching skirt, adorned with pearls. Richard Quinn also splashes sequins on his off-the-shoulder, white-as-snow jumpsuit. Consider also a monochrome-black wardrobe with leathers, velvets, tweeds and silks that make this a moody, chic winter. One of the biggest statements of the season is corsetry. We have fallen for the gothic-chic vibe of Max Mara’s black corset belt. The hype over cinched waists is also classically rendered with Alaïa’s nude corset harness dress. For a more relaxed look, there’s Vauthier’s black velvet jumpsuit, which is ruched at the waist. A tailored waistline always spices up your winter wardrobe.
LEFT: Alexandre Vauthier’s crushed velvet stretch jumpsuit is a black onesie with ruching detail around the waist. It’s perfect for a fashionable night out, yet feels cozy and comfortable.
BELOW: We are totally loving the vibe of JW Anderson’s oversized leather hooded trench coat. Leather is crossing all seasons, making it both a hot trend and a timeless look.
LEFT: Balmain’s patent mini skirt is bias-cut and its lines draw the eye to the fanned bow.
RIGHT: Balmain’s silver-sequinedand-pearled bodice and matching skirt are the perfect pieces set to brighten winter’s darkness. The top has corset boning for shape while the fitted matching skirt elevates the look. The pearls make it the epitome of glamour.
Jenna Bitove-Naumovich in navy Alaïa jersey dress.
lavender handbag. Paris Texas powder blue boots.
BELOW: Look and feel fabulous in Balmain’s textured tweed crop top, which sparkles with its satin bow and silver button.
LEFT:These boots are made for walking and making a statement. Acne Studios’ black patent boots literally elevate your look. We love the generous calf space, enabling them to slide on and off easily, as well as the heel height for comfortable walking.
RIGHT:Alaïa’s sophisticated black Princess coat is tapered at the waist, fanning out with a bustle in the back (a staple feature in Alaïa pieces). It’s classic and sure to be a timeless piece in your wardrobe.
LEFT: Hot item alert! Max Mara’s blackleather corset belt nips in the waist and elongates the form. This belt has been seen across many influencers’ platforms and is a perfect way to elevate your look.
LEFT: This fitted nude Alaïa dress with its illusioncorset bodice turned heads on the Alaïa catwalk. Designer Azzedine Alaïa was known as “The King of Cling.” This formfitting dress shows off your shape while bestowing understated sophistication.
A wide range of treatments allows us to continue looking our best as we move into mid-life.
We all want to age gracefully, moving seamlessly and beautifully into our future selves.
As we approach midlife, there are various treatments we can turn to for a little help to slow down the aging process.
Dr. Philip Solomon MD, FRCSC, Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgeon, practicing Facial Plastic Surgery in Toronto, discusses some of the treatments and tools that can help along the way.
By Dr. Philip Solomon & Nancie Heiber
Living Luxe: Dr. Solomon, the wide choice of treatments available can be overwhelming. How can we decide which treatment is best for our needs?
The first step is to meet with the patient to learn about their goals. They often discuss what bothers them, what they looked like when they were younger, what has changed and what they want to enhance. If they are looking for non-surgical options, we have a variety of tools we can recommend, depending on their concerns. Being a facial plastic surgery clinic, we have the luxury of offering both surgical and nonsurgical options, and the ability to combine them when necessary. We always start with the least invasive option as well as educate the patient about all procedures we offer that they may benefit from.
Living Luxe: What are injectables and how are they used?
Injectable fillers are one of the commonest aesthetic treatments worldwide. These dermal fillers consist of hyaluronic acid and are used to add volume to areas where volume loss is visible. Treatment sites include cheeks, tear troughs, temples, nasolabial folds and lips. Volume loss starts becoming visible in our 30s as collagen production slows down; imagine a balloon as it starts to lose air. Our face starts to look depleted. We also offer injectable aesthetic treatments to stimulate the production of collagen to improve skin quality, giving it more density to help minimize fine lines and folds. These treatments have become more mainstream and include PRP (platelet-rich plasma), hyaluronic acid skin boosters, Sculptra and semi-permanent filler. In a separate category, neurotoxin addresses the top third of the face by relaxing the facial muscles to minimize the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines and crows’ feet.
Living Luxe: Tell us about energy devices. What are they? How are they used? What kinds of results do they yield?
Energy devices refer to technology that can deliver a cosmetic treatment using radio-frequency, carbon dioxide, erbium, light therapy, ultrasound therapy or pico laser. Each delivery system targets the skin and skin concerns uniquely. Some energy devices address multiple issues, while others are excellent at targeting one particular issue. For example, pico laser addresses pigment such as sun damage, freckles— any brown pigment on the skin. IPL, also known as broadband therapy, treats red indications such as broken capillaries. CO2 laser can address pigment as well as texture, tone and fine lines, while also providing skin tightening. In some cases, we combine energy devices to best address a skin concern. Results vary from patient to patient. We can’t always pre-determine the outcome. In some cases, we can achieve a great result with one treatment, and in other cases multiple treatments may be required. It depends on how the patient’s skin responds to the treatment.
Living Luxe: What are threads? How are they used?
Threads have been around since the 1990s. However, the material and techniques have evolved over the years. Threads have been sought out as a “mini-lift” without surgery, but I wouldn’t say the results are comparable. Thread lifts can be performed in-office by a registered nurse or physician. They are designed to lift the tissue beneath the skin providing a “tightening and lifting” effect. Threads also help with the production of collagen in the treatment site, which translates into improved skin quality and volume. This treatment is more invasive than dermal filler and far less invasive than a facelift.
Living Luxe: How do you decide if surgery is a better option for one of your patients?
In most cases, it’s quite apparent when surgery is the better option. What we don’t want to do is send patients down a non-surgical path that is time-consuming and can be costly, and not deliver the results they are hoping for. It’s important that we understand the patient’s goals, discuss all options for treatment and then decide which path is best to achieve their goals. If we see a woman in her mid-to-late 50s who has skin laxity, we can offer energy devices. However, if there is significant skin laxity that would be better addressed with surgery, we would give our patients both options, educate them on the procedures and projected outcome, and let them choose the best option for themselves.
A new community in Leaside offers apartment rentals with condo-like amenities.
By Susan KellyIt just might be the elegant condo of your dreams in one of Toronto’s most coveted areas, complete with stunning views, concierge service and top-tier amenities. Except that instead of being locked into mortgage payments, you write rent cheques. “Interest has been brisk since the September launch of our 36 Brentcliffe Luxury Rental project in Leaside,” says Christopher Castellano, vice president, sales and marketing for the developer, Camrost Felcorp. “It is what is known as a purpose-built rental (PBR), a concept that is enjoying a resurgence.” Simply put, PBR buildings are developed to rent each unit rather than selling individual ones. PricewaterhouseCoopers Canada in its 2023 real estate trend outlook noted that “demand (for PBRs) will be especially strong as a result of trends in the ownership market.”
One advantage is long-term stability, which is hot-wired into the concept for Camrost Felcorp, a developer of high-rise condo buildings and residential communities. Renters can rest assured that the new landlord, which has been in business for 48 years, includes PBRs in an intentional and considered way. In contrast, a private condo owner may, at whim, legally evict tenants to renovate or have a family member move in. And what if your neighbour starts doing short-term rentals to people who like to party? “None of that could happen in the building,” Castellano says. “All tenants go through a screening process, and we’re looking for people who want to stay long-term and make it a home.”
Anyone renting one of the 262 spacious one- and two-bedroom residences has access to luxury condo-quality services and amenities, such as round-the-clock concierge service. All staff will be handpicked by Forest Hill Kipling, a provider of bespoke
concierge and security for upscale condo projects. Supplementing the extensive team is a full-time community manager. Submitting any repair or other request has been streamlined; residents can use an online management system to do so. “And because you’re dealing with professionals, if your dishwasher breaks down, you’ll see a maintenance person right away,” Castellano says.
36 Brentcliffe is located in Leaside, a sought-after neighbourhood that, in the early 1900s, was designed with greenspace preservation in mind. And it’s remained an urban oasis with small-town charm, parks and sports facilities. It offers municipal amenities, and there’s a cluster of shops, restaurants and cafés a short stroll away on a section of Bayview Avenue called “the strip.” If things get too laidback, a three-minute walk takes residents to the new Eglinton LRT station, and on to Toronto’s cultural scene and nightlife. A PBR in this location should add to the appeal for anyone looking to “smart size,” Castellano says. This buzz phrase means finding the right-sized property for your needs at any stage of life, which might include recently paired young professionals. Downsizers may also want to embrace the chance to live in the community that 36 Brentcliffe provides, Castellano says. “They can enjoy the best of two worlds, a village vibe outside, and inside be part of the master-planned community that is Upper East Village.”
Camrost Felcorp’s planned community consists of three buildings. 36 Brentcliffe is part of the Upper East Village master-planned community that will include two other towers and a purposebuilt park. They are all linked by a common design approach by IBI Architects and MAED Collective, an all-female interior-design firm. This ensures a shared aesthetic for the suites and common areas. Spaces will be laid out in a way that encourages mingling among neighbours—at the indoor pool, sundeck, gym, yoga studio or host of other shared amenities. “There is also a beautiful public-access pedestrian mews that links the buildings,” Castellano says. “Just one of the many features designed to encourage community and connection within an exclusive and luxurious setting.”
Suzanne Rogers Contributing Philanthropy Editor
For Suzanne Rogers, philanthropy is a way of life and an opportunity to help organizations close to her heartBy Suzanne Rogers
“And” may be the most hopeful word in the English language. My life has, and continues to be, a world of “and.” As a first-generation Canadian of Hungarian descent, I was born in Elliot Lake, Ontario where my father worked in the mines and, growing up in London, Ontario, I worked part-time as a waitress at Kelsey’s while attending Western University, from which I graduated with my political science degree. I also had a summer job as a housekeeper and children’s camp counsellor at Clevelands House Resort in Muskoka. I wore a dress from a vintage shop to my first formal dance with Edward, who became my husband. And, yes, I am a fashion enthusiast and have been one since early childhood. I use my love of fashion to shape my philanthropic projects and to give back. For me, the positive message in fashion embodies how I approach my work for children’s charities: with joy and love.
As part of the Rogers family, I knew I wanted to accomplish my own things. I started slowly by volunteering at SickKids Hospital, reading books to the children. Taking small steps, I gradually became involved in larger fundraising
projects such as chairing a $10-million campaign for Covenant House called “Just Like a Girl You Know” to support a broadranging anti-sex-trafficking program. Other endeavours included Scrubs, a fundraising program from SickKids Hospital; Boost, which supports victims of child abuse; and the Canadian Arts & Fashion Awards (CAFA). My support continues, and is not limited to The Darling Home for Kids, and Campfire Circle, supporting children and families affected by childhood cancer. To help young Canadian designers in a tough industry, Edward and I have funded The Suzanne Rogers Fashion Institute at Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson University). There is so much talent here that deserves the chance to flourish internationally.
the designer to walk into the room and feel completely at home and to enjoy themselves. I believe in the personal touch and in positive vibes. Fashion is positive. We laugh, we cry, and we raise money. I’m often asked how I choose the charities. The short answer is the feeling of connection with the cause. I also read the proposal and do my own research, and if it pulls the strings in my heart, I get involved and become quite devoted. When we pull together, we can do more. Giving back really does give you so much more in return.
In 2010, I started Suzanne Rogers Presents, which has raised nearly $4 million (net) for a variety of children’s charities in the areas of healthcare, education, and combating poverty. For the inaugural event, I invited the late Oscar de la Renta to present the runway show. I was a client of his and was thrilled when he accepted right away. Oscar had never done a fashion show in Canada before and, as they are for me, children’s causes were very close to his heart. The nearly $1 million raised from that first event went to HealthyKids International and Casa Del Nino, a children’s charity in the Dominican Republic started by Oscar. The event sold out and was a smash hit. Since that first gala, Suzanne Rogers Presents has partnered with Marchesa designers Georgina Chapman and Keren Craig, Zac Posen, Diane von Furstenberg, and Victoria Beckham. People get excited to experience these glamorous events and they generate meaningful amounts of funds and publicity to help children’s organizations.
Each gala takes at least a year of preparation because I want to do everything I can to capture the essence of the person and their brand in the invitations, the room decor, the flowers, the menu. I am hands-on because I want
Exclusive Resorts offers its members opportunities to visit a wide variety of luxurious vacation locales.
By Karen Ashbee
Our first morning at the Exclusive Resorts villa in Real Del Mar, Mexico began with a sound bath and a guided yoga session, as we gazed out over the Pacific Ocean and watched dolphins playing in the waves. So far so good, I thought. But that was before our breakfast had even been laid out by the villa staff on an enormous wooden table. Fresh tropical fruits, bread from the bakery in the nearby village, huevos rancheros and slices of ripe avocado were accompanied by such freshly squeezed juices as watermelon, papaya and orange. This, I said to myself, is something I could get used to. Turns out that this is a normal vacation day for Exclusive
“A vacation that starts the minute they arrive, in a different exotic locale every year. ”
Resorts members who have access to more than 350 opulent villas and luxury hotel suites in 75 international destinations as part of their membership.
Founded by Steve Case, former CEO and chairman of AOL, the club’s original concept was simple: offer members access to extraordinary experiences in remarkable villas around the world. Rather than going to the same holiday home each year, members can travel to various locales, where they enjoy the benefits of dedicated concierge teams who plan everything from stocking the fridge to getting children in to skiing lessons. Today, 20 years later, the club has expanded far beyond just villas, although the one we are in here in Mexico—located on the desirable Riviera Nayarit—is jaw-dropping. Like many of the Exclusive Resorts villas, it is designed for families, and boasts four bedrooms, a media room, a large ocean-facing deck and an infinity pool. If that is not enough, grab a golf cart and drive to the beach club for chilled margaritas by the ocean.
While the villas are spectacular, the club now also offers urban accommodations: Dedicated suites in luxury hotel chains in Paris, London, New York and beyond. Any Canadian who has opened a cottage or cabin after a dusty winter can see the appeal of a vacation that starts the minute they arrive, in a different exotic locale every year. The Club, now 4,300 members strong, is quickly signing up members in Canada. The bucket-list phenomenon is part of the appeal, as Exclusive Resorts members can also choose from 50 exotic curated experiences, such as safaris in Africa, cruises to Antarctica and even round-the-world trips in a private jet. For now, I am content here at our villa while I get ready for our surf lessons later this afternoon. There is tequila-tasting this evening, and tomorrow we will visit the picturesque little town nearby. If this is Exclusive Resorts living, sign me up.
Two Sisters Vineyards offers festive events and gift-giving to make the season bright.
By Stephanie Whittaker
The holiday season is a time of year when social gatherings kick into high gear. Whether the occasion is personal or work-related, the event becomes magical when it’s celebrated over memorable food and fine wines at a vineyard. Melissa Marotta-Paolicelli and Angela Marotta, co-owners of Two Sisters Vineyards in Niagara-on-the-Lake, reveal their plans for the upcoming season and describe how you can enjoy social gatherings there and find perfect gifts for holiday-giving.
Living Luxe: Melissa and Angela, the holiday season is the time of year when we attend a higher-than-usual number of social events—workrelated and personal. Tell us about the events that take place at the Two Sisters Vineyards.
During the holiday season, we play host to many events. Our spaces can cater to small get-togethers and groups of up to 100 people, allowing us to customize events to our guests’ vision. Our Barrel Room gets transformed into the perfect venue for corporate dinners, sommelier-led tastings, team-building events, and family gatherings. It’s special to enjoy an event among the barrels where the magic of winemaking takes place. Our team works to make it memorable.
Living Luxe: Do holiday parties at the Vineyards need to be large, as in office events, or is it possible to have a small gathering during the holiday season?
We are happy to customize our spaces and events for small groups and those of up to 100 people. Our team is skilled at executing memorable events regardless of the group size. Whether you’re looking to treat your corporate team to a wine-tasting experience, bring family for a seated dinner or get together with friends for a personalized tour, we will ensure your experience stands out this holiday season.
Living Luxe: Can employers book a wine-tasting event for their employees as their holiday office party?
Absolutely. We offer a seated tasting, guided by our senior wine consultants that can be customized for your team. We often incorporate trivia and other engaging team-building activities into our tastings with corporate groups. Kitchen76 can add to the tasting with charcuterie boards to pair with the wines, canapés before the tasting begins, or a seated dinner.
“WE WILL ENSURE YOUR
STANDS OUT THIS HOLIDAY SEASON.”
Living Luxe: Wine is a wonderful gift. Describe the kind of gifting—personal and corporate—that Two Sisters Vineyards can facilitate. What are some favourite gifts that your customers like to give? What gift packages do you recommend?
Our wines are perfect gifts for those who appreciate fine wines and those discovering them. Our goal is to ensure that the presentation of our gifts is worthy of the award-winning wines within. We offer co-branded wooden crates, sleek carriers and magnetic boxes. We also create customized bundles. One of our most popular options has been the co-branded wooden crates, which enable our clients to give customers and colleagues a personalized gift with their logo displayed. They often gift wines that are their personal favourites. Many companies have employees across the country, so we offer virtual tasting experiences, allowing us to send each person the same wines. Our estate sommelier hosts the tasting, bringing everyone together virtually for a fun, educational experience.
Living Luxe: Please discuss the nature of holiday dining at the Two Sisters Vineyards. Are there special menus that are unique to the holiday period?
We revise our menu seasonally, staying true to our Italian roots. Guests can expect comforting dishes, made from the finest ingredients and paired with our Two Sisters Vineyards award-winning wines.
Living Luxe: Are there plans to open Two Sisters Vineyards for dining on Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve?
We will offer a special menu on New Year’s Eve so our guests can join us for a meal before ringing in the new year. We are closed on Christmas Day, giving our team a chance to celebrate with loved ones.
Two styles of area rugs are enjoying a surge in popularity. Here’s why.
By Adriana ErmterCan an area rug be trendy? Yes, it can, says Michael Pourvakil, citing two styles of rug that are popular at the moment. As the founder and creative director of Weavers Art in Toronto, he says “contemporary textural” and “transitional Persian” rugs are enjoying a boom. Both styles are meticulously hand-crafted with natural wool or a blend of wool and silk fibres, he says. Contemporary textural rugs require fewer knots and can be characterized by clean, simple patterns as well as neutral, tone-on-tone shades of cream, off-white, ivory, beige, blue, grey and gold. Soft to the touch and rich in texture with alternating peaks and grooves, their visual depth and simple sophistication make them versatile for various rooms. Each one takes between three and five months to complete, and they range in price from $3,000 to $5,000 for an eight-by-10-foot size. “They are the number-one seller,” Pourvakil says. “Their simpler patterns translate well in any room and their quality
“HAVING THE RIGHT RUG MAKES ALL THE DIFFERENCE.THEY AUGMENT A ROOM’S FUNCTION AND APPEAL. AREA RUGS BY THEIR NATURE ANCHOR AND DEFINE A SPACE, OFFER WARMTH AND COMFORT, MINIMIZE NOISE, PROTECT FLOORS AND ADD A PERSONAL DESIGN TOUCH.”
defines luxury and comfort.” Equally luxurious and not far behind in popularity is the new generation of transitional Persian designs. They are sought after for putting a contemporary twist on traditional rugs with a variety of modern colours suitable for today’s interiors, he says. With their large-scale motifs and
flowers, they enhance the aesthetic of formal and not-so-formal dining and living rooms. These hand-knotted beauties can take between four and six months to weave and cost between $4,000 and $7,000 for an eight-by-10 size.
“Both styles are very hot right now,” Pourvakil says. “Having the right rug makes all the difference.” In fact, he says, they augment a room’s function and appeal. Area rugs by their nature anchor and define a space, offer warmth and comfort, minimize noise, protect floors and add a personal design touch. The contemporary textural and transitional Persian styles are available in various sizes, suitable for spacious homes and compact condominiums. “We live at least six months of the year inside our homes,” says Pourvakil. “We spend time with our families, friends and also entertain indoors, so rugs are extremely important and are an extension of our taste, personality and lifestyle. Each one has a unique charm.” They’re also considered a status symbol, something Pourvakil knows well. Born in Iran, he says that in his homeland, high-quality, hand-knotted rugs are comparable
in prestige to “where you live, the make of your car, and the diamonds you wear. They are proudly displayed in every home with a sense of pride. In Iran, you may drive a Toyota, but your home will have a $100,000 rug in it. It’s our heritage and custom.” Weavers Art also creates custom-made rugs. Pourvakil and his head carpet designer Wan Ki take their inspirations from nature, travel and architecture. They work with some of the best mills in Nepal and India to craft one-of-a-kind custom rugs for discerning clients. The process takes between three and five months for any size.
For more than 30 years, Pourvakil has been sourcing exceptional rugs from Iran, Pakistan, India and Nepal, each one crafted by master weavers using traditional methods, passed through generations. Celebrated for their artisanal appeal, they invite touch and exploration. Whether chosen for their emphasis on texture or pattern, each one’s particular allure distinguishes it. “They are timeless and an investment,” Pourvakil says. “You live with them, walk on them, enjoy their beauty, and after 30 years, they will still look great.”
Whether you are dreaming of curling up in bed or relaxing on the couch with a cup of tea, the specialized team at David’s Fine Linens invites you to experience the best in bedding.
cork
We all want to do what’s best for the planet. We also want our homes to reflect our sustainable goals, which is why many eco-minded homeowners are opting for cork flooring. “Cork is beloved by architects and designers because they get sustainability with a wood look,” says André Tavares, CEO of Amorim Canada, a Portugal-based company that produces a vast range of cork flooring. “In fact, you can have a wood look on your floors without cutting down a single tree.”
The company has taken an ancient natural element and elevated it for interior design and various other uses. “Cork can mimic other materials,” Tavares says. “Our patented technology allows us to mix cork with such things as stone powder and recycled water bottles. This is a sustainable flooring solution. You can have a wood look, a carpet look, a porcelain look, all made from cork.”
“Not cutting down a single tree” is one of the attractions making this material so desirable. Cork is the bark of the cork oak tree (Quercus suber), a species that is native to the western Mediterranean. It enjoys an average lifespan of more than 200 years; however, says Tavares, some cork trees are much older than that. The first harvest of the bark takes place when the tree reaches the age of 25 years. As the bark regrows, subsequent harvestings are done every nine years during the summer months. “In harvesting the bark, we don’t harm the tree,” Tavares says. “In fact, the harvest makes the trees stronger.”
Cork trees thrive in a dry climate. “The cork forest starts where the Sahara desert finishes,” he says. “The cork forest is one of 36 biodiversity hotspots in the world and is one of the biggest protected forests worldwide.” Amorim’s cork harvest takes place in North Africa, Spain, Italy and Portugal; the company buys the material from local farmers. It also collects used cork wine stoppers in Europe to be ground and reused in flooring products. “Using the cork stoppers allows us to obtain cork in a more affordable way,” he says.
In addition to using recycled materials in the flooring it manufactures, Amorim makes the product even more sustainable by not adding any volatile organic compounds (VOCs) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC), making
its products attractive to homeowners who want building materials that don’t compromise health. “We’ve been amazingly well received in Canada because our flooring solutions are so sustainable,” Tavares says. In Toronto, the products are available at First Class Flooring at 10 Marmac Dr., Etobicoke. (www.firstclassflooring.ca). “First Class Flooring is the biggest retail partner of Amorim in Toronto,” Tavares says.
Amorim offers several product lines, including Wicanders, Corklife, Decolife and Amorim Wise. All are sustainably produced and can be installed by do-it-yourselfers. “We’ve corrected the flaws of cork flooring from 30 years ago, when it was still porous and fragile,” Tavares says. “What we have now offers many benefits.” Among them: Cork has such good insulating properties that NASA uses it on space-going craft. It absorbs sound, which is why it’s used in recording studios. It’s shockabsorbent, making it comfortable underfoot in kitchens and other rooms.
It’s also durable enough for public buildings and is used by builders aiming for LEED certification. “It helps them to reach carbon-emission reduction targets,” Tavares says. In residential settings, he adds, “we’re seeing it installed in new builds and renovations. One of the biggest uses we’re seeing is as a replacement for carpets. It gathers much less dust than carpets and doesn’t get damaged by pet claws. It’s easily cleaned by vacuuming and damp-mopping.”
Installing cork underfoot is one more way to do what’s best for the planet.
Styling and giving come naturally for Toronto’s Fashion Santa.By Susan Kelly
“Who are you wearing?” is not a question posed of the holiday season’s most highprofile personality. Unless it’s Fashion Santa, a tall, svelte version of the icon. Also known as Toronto model Paul Mason, Fashion Santa spends the season clad in red suits, but his are sharply cut and custom-tailored in velvet by Indochino or tweed by Toronto haberdasher Thomas Henry Made. His backstory also is cut from a different cloth.
believe this look or character chose me, and make the best of it,” he says. “My mother’s legacy lives on in anything I participate in as Fashion Santa.” Today, he is intentional with the beard and brand. He keeps the former in good trim for photoshoots and public appearances.
“It’s very strange how the Fashion Santa story evolved,” says Mason, who adopted the alter ego in 2014. “It’s almost like I was waiting all my life to be here.” While he was studying social work at Ryerson University, some fashion program students asked him to model. Within months he had a professional gig in Tokyo, which led to three decades of walking fashion runways for such designers as Dior, Dolce & Gabbana and Armani. His now-trademark look is a late development: In 2013 his mother died of cancer. It hit him hard. A grief-stricken Mason withdrew from modelling and stopped shaving. To his surprise, when his beard grew in, he liked the Santa-esque effect. One year later, he approached the Yorkdale Shopping Centre and appeared in an ad campaign that went viral. Mason reckons he took 888 selfies that year— one with Justin Bieber—becoming an unintentional social media darling. “I
Earlier this fall, he joined other influencers in a filmed campaign for a line of skincare products. Next, it was off to the UK for an appearance at the Victoria Leeds shopping centre to shoot a photo campaign and pose for selfies with shoppers. The next meetand-greet was in Las Vegas for Project 150 at Fashion Show Mall, where a Christmasseason coat drive will launch Fashion Santa’s event. Next stop: Washington, DC and Tysons Galleria to raise money and awareness for the Make-A-Wish Foundation. “From Day One, everything I’m involved in must benefit a good cause,” he says. The charities benefiting include SickKids Hospital, Terry Fox Foundation, Children’s Miracle Network and Hope Springs Cancer Resource Centre. His eyes, which crinkle with Kris Kringle-y gentle humour, soften as he speaks of one dear to his heart: Save a Child’s Heart Foundation. Based in Israel, it offers cardiac care to children from developing countries. Starting on Valentine’s Day, 2022, Mason spent the summer volunteering at the main hospital outside Tel Aviv, and will return next February. “I had open-heart surgery when I was four years old, so can empathize with the kids,” he explains. “I know what it’s like to be in a strange place, in pain, with tubes and wires attached.”
A portion of the sales of his Fashion Santa holiday cards will go to the organization. The cards, available through Mason’s Instagram site, feature four illustrations by Montreal illustrator Steeve Lapierre. Fashion Santa will take a break in January, and has yet to decide between beach getaway or staycation. “I really don’t have time to breathe until Christmas Day is over,” he says.
Cozy bedding is the secret to creating a bedroom sanctuary in winter.By Susan Kelly
As temperatures plummet, it’s time to layer—even in the bedroom. Which means topping snowy bed sheets with plump duvets and pillows, and piling on snuggly blankets and throws. But maximizing warmth and comfort—and ultimately the best night’s rest—is less about quantity and more about understanding what goes into making each layer, says David Saini, owner of David’s Fine Linens. “The bedding you choose will not only create a cozy aesthetic, but determine your comfort level and how well you sleep,” says this expert, who has been sourcing and selling fine linens for more than 40 years. “Quality counts.”
Often it takes a single duvet to achieve an optimal sleeping temperature. It may be filled with wool, silk or synthetic materials, but for light, airy warmth, we turn to down. The finest down also lets us rest easy knowing it’s responsibly and sustainably harvested. David’s carries eiderdown duvets, with filling that’s hand-collected from eider duck habitats in a Quebec wildlife sanctuary. The birds are not harmed; they shed down from the chest the way we shed hair from the head, Saini explains. But it takes more than 60 nests to make one duvet, making it a costly material. Premium down’s cloud-like softness and exceptional insulating ability is due to something called loft . “And there is no real difference in comfort, whether it is from a duck or goose, or comes from Europe or Canada,” Saini says. “Loft is the true measure of down quality.” This retailer also carries duvets and pillows filled with down sourced in Europe or the Hutterite communities of Alberta. They allow the geese and ducks, which are raised primarily as food, to range freely. The down plucked as a by-product is considered superbly fine. The pleasure of slipping between the sheets at the end of the day is
DESIGN | RENOVATE | DECORATE | STAGE | RETAIL
undoubtedly one of life’s greatest joys, made better only when they are sumptuously soft. Most of us prefer crisp cotton over silk or linen, Saini says. And we think that the highest thread count is all that matters. But it’s the quality of the cotton that makes the difference, he adds. Egyptian cotton has a justified reputation for being the best in the world. But because there are imitators out there, his store stocks bedding composed only of fabric from certified genuine sources. La crème of Egyptian cottons is Giza, grown and handpicked close to the Nile River. Saini considers it the “cashmere of the cotton world,” making it rarer and giving it unique qualities that aren’t found elsewhere. It’s not only luxuriously soft, but takes dyes beautifully. The red diamond of cottons—meaning rarest and most expensive—is Sea Island cotton. Grown only on certain Caribbean islands, it accounts for 0.004 per cent of the world’s cotton supply.
Some people still prefer the coziness of flannel sheets. The versions at David’s Fine Linens are sourced in Italy and Portugal of fine cotton spun to keep the warming qualities without the rustic roughness. “Many people talk about hotel sheets, but nothing you experience in a hospitality setting can compare with the comfort and softness of what we offer,” he says.
Like duvets, pillows may be filled with down, wool, manmade materials or silk. Does it take mounds of them to make a bed cozy? That’s a matter of preference, says this expert. But everyone needs two types of pillows, one for sleep and the rest for decor. The sleep pillow is more about function, whether you’re a side- or back-sleeper or need neck support. Pillow height and firmness are also important.
Saini advises against king-size pillows as too large. Downsize to queen for more comfort and better sleep. And for a sumptuous finishing touch, layering blankets and throws is an instinctual response to chilly nights. A merino wool throw, made in Ireland, would provide warmth along with an injection of colour. Here you can play with texture, the softness of a cashmere throw, or one of nubby mohair. For added drama, toss a striking knit or faux-fur throw on the foot of the bed. “Luxury materials are not only more beautiful to behold,” says Saini, “but give a sensation of cozy comfort every time you touch them.”
Dodge winter’s blasts by being a tourist in your own city at this resort-like hotel.
By Susan Kelly
Winter travel alert: storms ground or delay flights, airports teem with holiday travellers, snowdrifts block highways. It’s one reason that many of us will vacation close to home, says Matt Black, director of marketing and revenue at stylish Hotel X Toronto. “We see it as part of the slow travel movement, which emphasizes enjoying the moment,” he says. “By staying local, you still feel like you’re getting away from it all but without the hassle of the going.” One need stray only as far as Toronto’s waterfront to find a resort-like experience at this chic 404room boutique hotel, part of the international Library Hotel Collection. While snow flies outdoors, guests can stay snug indoors in Hotel X’s elegant confines, enjoying fine dining, a private screening room and an art gallery. And, as the name suggests, they can browse two onsite libraries and borrow books or board games during their stay. They’ll also catch some sun; the architecture features floor-to-ceiling glass, emphasizing light-filled interiors. Even the attached 10XTO
Perfectly appointed 1, 2 and 3-bedroom suites with high-end finishes, including an exclusive penthouse collection, in renowned Forest Hill. Envisioned by Diamond Schmitt Architects and Wise Nadel Design. Featuring a selection of curated hotel-style services and amenities, including a 24-hour concierge team, dedicated doorperson, fitness facility, spas, private dining room and lounges, and a spectacular 17th-floor rooftop terrace overlooking the incomparable Toronto skyline. World-class living. A new standard for luxury rentals.
“STAYING IN A WORLD-CLASS HOTEL SUCH AS HOTEL X MEANS HAVING ACCESS TO ELITE CONCIERGE SERVICES; YOU CAN LEAVE THE BOOKINGS AND ITINERARY TO A PRO. “
athletic centre, with four indoor tennis courts, and squash and pickleball courts, is encased in it. At the Topgolf Swing Suite, as many as eight people can virtually work on their golf game, or play such other games as baseball, hockey or soccer. Hotel X Toronto offers locals a starting point for playing tourist in their own town, Black says. First stop: the 28th-floor terrace to take in spectacular views. Born and raised in Toronto, Black says this vantage point helped him see Lake Ontario with fresh eyes, awestruck by its grandeur. Cap off the experience with a winter dip in the 55-foot pool, kept warm at 26 degrees.
On terra firma, Hotel X Toronto is near seven acres of parkland with a paved walking trail and nearby skating rinks. It’s a short walk to artsy Liberty Village and trendy Queen Street West for nightcluband restaurant-hopping. “And if you’re like me, you probably wait until friends and family come into town before you tour the Royal Ontario Museum, CN Tower, and other sights,” Black says, “and only then realize how fun it is.” Insider tip: Staying in a world-class hotel such as Hotel X means having access to elite concierge services; you can leave the bookings and itinerary to a pro.
Visually stunning and elegant it may be, but this hotel is also family-friendly, as Black, who has three children, can attest. “Several room configurations are available, which really helps if you’re travelling with extended family,” he says. Well-behaved pets under 25 pounds are also welcome. Time away from the children is also possible: Parents can drop off their offspring—aged 11 months to 11 years— in the care of trained staff at the Play Centre. Meanwhile, adults might include combining wellness with their vacation. The health centre provides a calm oasis and opportunities to explore such practices as hot yoga and reformer Pilates. There is also the Guerlain Spa, part of a worldwide chain that began in the grand hotels of Europe, with a curated menu of wellness and pampering options.
Hotel X Toronto offers several packages for families, couples and others seeking an escape without the need to switch time zones or book flights. Some, such as the Holiday Family Fun package, are available only at Christmastime. Among the festive perks is a chance for the children to breakfast with Santa Claus, on December 9, 10, 16 and 17. Winter is an ideal time to book, Black says. “The hotel will be fully staffed, but with fewer guests, which means staff have more time to lavish you with even more attention,” he adds. That makes it a good time to plan a destination wedding or a big family event. Book your urban-resort stay at hotelxtoronto.com.
EuroLine Windows celebrates 30 years of bringing high-performance windows and doors to the North American market.
By Wendy HelfenbaumThey are coveted by architects, builders, contractors, and discerning homeowners. The fiberglass-composite tilt-and-turn windows, manufactured by Euroline Windows, offer a high-performance approach to fenestration. For the past 30 years, the Delta, B.C.-based company—originally known as ANG Window Tech and renamed in 1998—has focused on energy-efficient windows and doors, inspired by European design and high-tech ingenuity. By bringing innovative German engineering to Canada, EuroLine became a leader of highperformance window and door design, delivering their product quickly and to high standards, says the company’s marketing coordinator Alona Gordeeva. “By manufacturing the windows here, the lead time is shorter, the carbon dioxide produced by transporting finished windows from Europe to Canada is reduced, and post-installation servicing is
much easier because we can quickly adjust windows at your home,” she says.
The company that started with six employees now has design consultants working closely with clients across Canada and the US to design their perfect fenestration. Davyd Funk was appointed as president and CEO in March 2020. The team works on both commercial and residential projects, with showrooms in Toronto, Delta, Victoria, Kelowna, and Richmond Hill, Ontario. It recently opened one in Toronto’s Yorkville district.
Rather than wait for building codes to push it toward greater energyefficiency, EuroLine Windows chose to surpass them. “We were ahead of the curve from the beginning, and we still are, because we want to make sure homeowners get the best value out of their windows and doors by reducing their energy bills over the long term and decreasing the CO2 released from heating and cooling,” says Gordeeva. While the company does import raw materials and components from Europe, all windows are custom-crafted at its manufacturing facility in Delta, using local glass. Most frames are constructed from fiberglass-composite material, which is mold-resistant and easy to clean. All windows and
doors also offer excellent thermal performance, some certified by the Passive House Institute.
The company offers personalized customer service. “Customers can book a free consultation with our local design consultants where they’ll receive help designing windows and doors to achieve their specific goals, while learning the intricacies of window design from engineering to beauty,” Gordeeva says. “We make sure customers make the best choice for their home and energy goals. It’s a big investment, and we believe customers need to understand what they’re getting to receive the most value out of it.” You get what you pay for, she adds. Lower-end windows are not energy-efficient and send a lot of heat or cold outdoors. Energy bills caused by low-performance windows greatly outweigh the initial investment in high-quality performance ones in the long run.
Additionally, lower grade windows can be bulky, reducing the actual glass surface, creating dividers between homeowners and the outdoors. “We prefer to maximize the surface of the window and the view,” Gordeeva says. “You can choose from 125 colours, and the windows are highly customizable. Being able to design a window or door that perfectly suits your needs is very important.” Orders are delivered within eight weeks across Canada and the U.S. EuroLine handles about 90 per cent of its product installations, but it can also support contractors of the homeowners’ choosing to ensure everything goes smoothly, she adds. “You can get the most amazing windows, but if they’re not installed correctly, they will not perform.”
Moving into next year, Gordeeva is seeing design moving toward wood grains, straight lines and classic matte black. “We never paint our windows or door profiles; our foil technology permanently bonds foil and profile, meaning it never chips, cracks or fades,” she explains. “We focus on intentional design, which requires having a clear point of view around the impact of what is created. Installing a large bi-fold door in a beautiful living room that opens to your backyard brings the outdoors in, increasing enjoyment of your home. We’re always thinking about how to improve people’s experience, comfort, and wellbeing.”
The 124 on Queen Hotel & Spa is a winter wonderland destination in picture-perfect Niagara-on-the-Lake.
By Stephanie WhittakerPack your bags. Now would be a great time for a relaxing sojourn in a place deemed one of Canada’s prettiest towns: Niagara-on-the-Lake. When you arrive in that beautiful corner of southern Ontario, head for the 124 on Queen Hotel & Spa, where Eric Quesnel’s team will be waiting to welcome you. “We would love to receive more visitors throughout the winter,” says Quesnel, the general manager at 124 on Queen. “And it’s a great time to be here. The vineyards are open all winter and there are wine tastings, but they’re less busy.” Another attraction, he adds, is the Shaw Festival, which will present two productions—Brigadoon and A Christmas Carol—until December 23.
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
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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
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Libby Wildman, Senior Partner
The hotel, which opened in 2011, began with the purchase of two early-19th-century buildings on Queen Street that had hosted a series of businesses, including a dry cleaner in the recent past and, historically, a customs house. When Nick Capasso and David Jones bought the buildings in 2010, they housed a small hotel, Quesnel says. However, in the decade that followed, the owners bought more nearby buildings, and recently constructed a 40,000-square-foot extension behind the historic structures on Queen Street, adding 39 new rooms to their establishment. Another recent addition includes a $1 million garden above an underground parking lot. “There’s a sitting area with a water feature and firepit,” says Quesnel. The hotel complex now comprises eight buildings that include 75 rooms, in addition to four suites and six villas.
And while most of the buildings are historic, the amenities and interior design belong to today. The recently renovated rooms—with the hotel’s signature blue, white and gold palette—have a serene, contemporary vibe. Absent is the ubiquitous broadloom so typical of most hotel rooms; instead, area rugs and hardwood floors bestow an understated elegance.
Then there’s the nearby Gatehouse, which the owners bought in 2018. The elegant 300-year-old structure once housed the first Law Society of Upper Canada, and although the original building was destroyed by fire in 1849, it boasts restored original stonework. “We do weddings in the Gatehouse, about 50 a year,” Quesnel says. “It’s also used for business conferences and meetings, executive retreats and product launches.”
The hotel has two eateries. The NOTL Bar and Restaurant is casual, serving pub dishes. For more formal dining, the Treadwell, which is based on the farm-to-table concept, sources local ingredients from the Niagara region and, of course, local wines. WineMaker magazine named Treadwell one of the top 10 wine restaurants in the country, and OpenTable named it one of the top 100 restaurants in Canada. Holiday meals at Treadwell will include a New Year’s Eve dinner in the countdown to midnight, Quesnel says, adding that the holiday period in Niagara-on-the-Lake is magical. “The decorations with all the Christmas trees make it like a Hallmark card,” he says.
One of the hotel’s main attractions is its 12,000-square-foot spa. In addition to offering traditional spa services—facials, massages, body treatments and wellness therapies—Spa Q features a hydrotherapy circuit, a snow room, hot and cold pools, sensory showers, a cedar sauna, and a eucalyptus steam room. “Many people stay several nights at the hotel just to use the spa,” Quesnel says, adding that it also attracts locals. “There was a spa here when the owners bought the property but it was small. Now, there are 10 treatment rooms.”
The 124 on Queen hosts some 30,000 visitors a year, which is why the staff currently numbers 175. Quesnel, whose work history includes several decades with Fairmont Hotels and Resorts in Quebec and elsewhere, says, “We love the relationships we create with our guests.” It’s why he and his staff eagerly await your arrival and will greet you with a warm welcome.
The Toronto International Boat Show attracts thousands of boaters and dreamers alike.
By Julie GedeonAhoy, maties! The 66th annual Toronto International Boat Show is set to makes waves again this January, attracting between 65,000 and 75,000 enthusiasts. “It’s North America’s largest indoor boat show, which surprises a lot of people given our climate,” says Linda Waddell, the Canadian Boat Shows’ president and show director. “But the majority of Ontarians live less than an hour from a lake or river, which is more access to beautiful fresh waterways than anywhere else on the planet!” Relaxing on or by the water is particularly favoured by people in the Greater Toronto-Hamilton Area for both weekend escapes and summer vacations.
Everyone instinctively feels what science has shown about water’s health benefits. A 2018 Canadian study revealed that people living near water have a reduced risk of mortality by as much as 17 per cent. Wallace
J. Nichols, author of Blue Mind, notes that just seeing and hearing open water promotes wellness by relaxing us, lowering our cortisol levels, and increasing the serotonin that makes us happier. “There’s also great value placed on making lasting memories on the water with family and friends,” Waddell says.
By January, boating enthusiasts are longing for warmer days of sailing, cruising or kayaking. The show has everything under one roof to help them get ready, whether it’s to update fishing gear or take up a new watersport. “People who attend for the first time say they knew it would be large but didn’t expect there to be so much to see and do,” Waddell says. “It really helps to use our interactive website to plan your visit so that you make the most of your time over a day or two.” More than 300 seminars cover the gamut from water-safety and certification, to boating on the Rideau Canal, to planning the route, food and other supplies for a six-month expedition.
The show actually has an indoor lake when the Coca-Cola Coliseum is flooded with a million gallons (almost 3.8 million litres) of water. There’s always something happening at the lake, from waterski shows, to electric boats on the go, to the Indoor Wakeboard Championship.
“THERE’S ALSO GREAT VALUE PLACED ON MAKING LASTING MEMORIES ON THE WATER WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS.”
“It’s the only place in the world that has an indoor championship for the wakeboard industry,” Waddell says. “Riders from all over are excited to compete in front of thousands of people.”
The show is organized into sections according to interests to make navigating it easier. Cottage Country is dedicated to smaller, non-motorized craft, such as canoes, kayaks, paddleboards and wakeboards, but also docks and other cottage essentials. Mariner’s Marketplace is chock full of boat electronics and other accessories, as well as services for everything from
marina slips to boating destinations. The Boathouse is for those who maintain and repair their boats on their own or want to learn to do so. The show offers everything imaginable for both seasoned boaters and landlubbers still dreaming of owning a boat one day. “We get lots of people who aren’t yet sure what they want and just look around,” Waddell says. “And then there are the boaters who attend year after year, buying multiple boats over time, and knowing they can negotiate with sellers who offer their best oncea-year deals at this show.”
While most attendees are from Ontario, the show also draws people from Michigan, New York State, Quebec and the Maritimes. Many opt to visit mid-week to avoid the weekend bustle. For those who want to look around before the crowds arrive, there’s a First Look Friday admission. The Toronto International Boat Show takes place January 19 to 28 in the Enercare Centre at Exhibition Place, 100 Princes’ Blvd., Toronto.
Canada’s Walk of Fame celebrates a milestone as it makes strides into the next quartercentury.By Susan Kelly
More than 2.000 people are expected to pack the Metro Toronto Convention Centre on December 2 for Canada’s Walk of Fame’s 25th Anniversary Celebration. It is scheduled to begin with a star-studded red carpet, presented by Cadillac, featuring Inductees and Honourees past and present as 10 of the country’s leading lights join the prestigious ranks. On stage, memorable performances and tributes are planned from today’s brightest stars and stellar alumni from the past quarter-century. If your invitation was lost in cyberspace, no worries; the event airs on CTV in mid-December. Just don’t expect to see a typical awards show, say its organizers.
“We’ve shifted the emphasis dramatically over the years,” says Jeffrey Latimer, CEO of Canada’s Walk of Fame. “You could say it’s less about the ‘Fame’ and more about the ‘Walk,’ and making it more than a
one-night celebration.” There is so much to celebrate in this landmark year that two major ceremonies were planned. On September 28, the Rock of Fame event welcomed 13 of the country’s most influential rock music legends from the 1970s and 1980s to its ranks. Inductees included April Wine, Chilliwack, Glass Tiger, Lee Aaron, Lighthouse, Loverboy, Max Webster, Michel Pagliaro, Platinum Blonde, PRISM, Rough Trade, The Parachute Club, and Trooper.
The 2023 Celebration continues a tradition of giving Inductees a chance to tell more of their stories. To acknowledge that behind every applause-worthy achievement there is a unique journey, full of aspiration and drive but also a great deal of struggle. “So, it’s also a walk of resilience, leadership, innovation, activism, creativity, equity and so much more,” Latimer says. Such as at the 2017 posthumous induction of Viola Desmond, who in 1946 stood up to racial segregation. Martin Luther King III spoke to the crowd about how her story inspired his father and also famous civil rights activist Rosa Parks—just one example of the impact such stories can have, according to Latimer.
In the early days, the focus was on achievers in music, fashion,
“IT’S
A WALK OF
INNOVATION, ACTIVISM, CREATIVITY, EQUITY AND SO MUCH MORE.”
arts and sports. Today, Canada’s Walk of Fame recognizes five pillars of achievement. A new pillar called Entrepreneurship and Philanthropy was created in 2017, with Ted Rogers as the first Inductee. This year, it goes to the co-founders of iconic Roots Canada, Michael Budman and Don Green. Also added are voices in Science, Technology and Innovation in partnership with Sanofi Canada.
The 2023 Inductee in this pillar is pioneering neuroscientist Dr. Brenda Milner of Montreal, the oldest living Inductee at 105 years old. Coincidentally, the youngest Inductee, hockey superstar Connor McDavid for Sports and Athletics, also is being inducted this year. Additional extraordinary Canadian achievers who join Canada’s Walk of Fame’s prestigious ranks in 2023 are the Honourable Rosalie Silberman Abella under the Humanitarianism pillar, and Tantoo Cardinal, Avril Lavigne, Gary Slaight, Degrassi and Rick Mercer in Arts & Entertainment.
The 2023 Canada’s Walk of Fame Honourees also include this year’s Allan Slaight Music Impact Honour recipient, Kardinal Offishall, as well as the 2023 National Hero Honour recipient, Catherine Abrew. Now in its fifth instalment, the Community Hero Program, presented by Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment, recognizes a young Canadian under 30 who is positively influencing the lives of others and making an impact in their communities and beyond. This year’s recipient is also to be recognized during the ceremony. After the event, Inductees outside of the GTA will get a second chance to celebrate their induction where their journey began during the Hometown Stars Celebration, presented by Scotiabank in partnership with Cineplex. This free public event features a commemorative plaque unveiling, special guests, and musical performances. It was introduced by Canada’s Walk of Fame in 2017 to deepen its commitment, broaden its impact and build a more meaningful national platform. And then there is the concrete Walk of Fame, an exhibit of maple leafinspired stars embossed on Toronto theatre-district sidewalks. Latimer
says that some have seen better days, which is why he announced a new project at the Celebration: the Garden of Achievement. It will rejuvenate the tangible mementos and add some high-tech ways to transmit each luminary’s story, such as narrations accessible via smartphone app. All to say that the reach of Canada’s Walk of Fame extends beyond one night of glory. “ ‘Mean more to more people more often’ has been our mantra,” Latimer says. “So we’ll keep finding ways to keep more of our country’s greats in the spotlight.”
The Canada’s Walk of Fame 25th Anniversary Celebration airs on CTV in mid-December; check local listings for date and times. A full list of this year’s Inductees and Honourees can be found at canadaswalkoffame.com.
Wildman Finance Expert
Before you marry for the second or third time, you and your loved one should address financial and legal questions.
By Libby Wildman
We got married! Yes, after nine years together, John and I tied the knot in a loving ceremony at our cottage, attended by 33 guests. Quite a few people have asked us why we would “get married at all.” After all, it wasn’t the first time that either of us has taken vows. The answer: I do not want to be referred to as the “girlfriend of 30 years” in my or John’s obituary. And, more important, John
and I highly value our family and community, and we believe that our marriage will strengthen them. “Girlfriend” feels temporary. However, after we made our commitment to each other on the shores of our island in Pointe au Baril, Georgian Bay, the subtle shift in attitude among our family and friends was palpable.
Our good friend Doug Pawes, an elder with the Shawanaga First Nation, performed a traditional ceremony with water, fire, strawberries (a symbol of love and healing) and the four cardinal points. All agreed that the beauty of nature and the power of Spirit created a deeply moving ceremony. It was a time of reflection and love and all things that matter. Our guests sat in their shorts on the ancient rocks, and John and I were near the water facing them,
with our hands tied together as a symbol of unity. I cannot think of a more fitting way to commit to each other for life than in the presence and power of Mother Nature and our loved ones.
With this change in our legal status, we also needed to reflect on other important questions. Many newlyweds, for instance, don’t know that their will—drawn and signed prior to marriage—is null and void afterwards, unless it took their upcoming nuptials into consideration. Divorce does not nullify a will. Marriage, however, does. Dying intestate—without a will—guarantees that distribution of your assets will not follow your wishes. If you have children—adults or minors— assets will be divided among them if you die intestate. Getting married offers a good time to review other monetary issues, too. Choose carefully which assets you’ll leave to each other and which you’ll leave to your children upon your death. One never knows how much money will be needed for a surviving spouse’s care and on-going lifestyle.
Registered Retirement Savings Plans and Registered Retirement Income Funds are generally best left to your new spouse; otherwise, they become fully taxable as income if left to your children. Example: If you die with $500,000 left in your RRSP and leave it to your children, it’s taxable as if you made $500,000 in your final year. Why send so much money to the government? The law allows for assets to be passed between spouses on a rollover basis. This means that capital gains taxes or other types of taxes are deferred until the second death. If you have a cottage, for instance, that was yours prior to the marriage and you choose to leave it to your children rather than your spouse, it will be deemed for tax purposes to have been sold at fair market value at the time of your death. This will trigger capital gains taxes in your estate and could be difficult for your new spouse, if you do not have enough cash to pay that tax. Life insurance beneficiaries, philanthropic wishes, and children who remain dependent should all be reassessed before you walk down the aisle.
These are not easy conversations to have. In my experience, having an advisor who understands the issues—legal, emotional and tax-related—is invaluable. Making clear decisions with the right knowledge and sound guidance can help to keep the peace and love alive in a blended-family marriage. I have been having these conversations for decades and can now relate personally to these issues because I am living them. Contact me if you would like to start a conversation.
Libby Wildman is head of wealth advisory at Toronto-based investment firm Davis-Rea. She is also the founder of The Collective, a community for women entrepreneurs, as well as of Liminal Escapes, which specializes in curated retreats.
Funds raised by the ONE LIFE Gala will enable research toward early cancer detection.
By Tina Tehranchian
The ONE LIFE Gala, in support of the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, raised more than $460,000 to fund research toward the early detection of cancer. This was the second such annual event, presented by CI Assante Wealth Management Circle of Giving Advisors, and chaired by Tina Tehranchian, senior wealth advisor at Assante Capital Management Ltd. The sold-out event on October 21 was attended by more than 300 guests at the Royal York Hotel. It featured addresses by three prominent cancer survivors, including Jeanne Beker, Susan Hodkinson and Peter Shier, as well as by grateful patient and cancer survivor Jenny Young.
The Princess Margaret Cancer Centre treats more than 200 different cancers, including some of the rarest and most aggressive ones, and is one of the top 5 cancer research centres in the world.
The Women’s Empowerment Awards Gala honoured trailblazing women of the past and present.
By Jessica SiuThe second annual Women’s Empowerment Awards Gala, held in September, honoured women before us who have shattered glass ceilings and celebrated today’s trailblazers who are making an impact on society. The Gala, held at the lavish Park Hyatt ballroom, was a spectacular celebration of the remarkable achievements of women across Canada in diverse industries and careers. Movers and shakers included the Honourable Marci Ien, federal Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth, who spoke about building bridges towards a more equitable future. The highlight of the evening included an emotional performance by Juno Awardwinning artist Jully Black. The Awards Gala was testament to the power of unity and solidarity among women, as award recipients spoke about their own stories of trials and triumphs, supporting the importance of women empowering women.
1. JULLY BLACK, KLAUDIA ZINATY 2. JENNA BITOVE-NAUMOVICH, VONNA BITOVE 3. JORDAN STEWART 4. DANA MAREI AND WISSAM QASSIM 5. ROBIN NADEL, ANDREA MCMULLEN, COLIN DEMPSTER, SASHA DEMPSTER, JENNIFER LIPKOWITZ, ANTHONY SIRIANNI, RUTNAISH PRIHAR 6. SYLVIA MANTELLA, SUZANNE ROGERS 7. TZETZY NAYDENOVA, ANJA PROSTRAN 8. ALY CURRIE, ALEX FILIATRAULT, SARAH GILLAN, CANDICE SINCLAIR 9. THEE WINDDANCER, J’NET AYAYQWAYAKSHEELTH 10. CHRISTI HIMMELHEBER, FARAH NASSER, KLAUDIA ZINATY, TANYA KIM 11. SUSAN LANGDON, SHELLI OH 12. HONOURABLE MARCI IEN, M.P.
THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
SHOP NOW WITH DELIVERY TO YOUR DOOR
The first Brunch for Boobies event in Toronto raised much-needed funds for Rethink Breast Cancer.
By Tamara Bahry and Melyssa HollisterToronto’s recent inaugural Brunch for Boobies event attracted 60 women and raised more than $40,000 for Rethink Breast Cancer, a charitable organization that educates, empowers and advocates for system changes to improve the experience and outcomes of those with breast cancer. Guests at the October 15 brunch, held on the patio, known as “the secret garden,” at Bar Reyna, enjoyed such delicacies as mini avocado toasts, shrimp, croque madames, baklava toasts and an oyster bar, while conversing about women’s health. Artist Erica Mills created a live on-site painting, which was raffled off, and co-chairs Tamara Bahry and Melyssa Hollister recounted their experiences with breast cancer.
Funds raised for Rethink will be used by the organization’s Give-A-Care Program to include additional educational resources. Rethink will also expand the program’s product line to include such items as a radiation package to help those facing painful radiation burns. Guests at the brunch left with the ANDREWS x Rethink tote bag, filled with goodies from various sponsors.
1. LILY LI, JENNIFER LIPKOWITZ, TAMARA BAHRY 2. DINAH DEIF,RAANA KALPAKJI,JENNIFER TAYLOR 3. JESSICA WEST,COURTNEY CLARE 4. JACQUELINE NICOSIA,MEG SETHI 5. KATIE HEAD,JENNIFER CLARKE,MICHELLE BIGGAR,LAURA ADAMS,SONDI LINDROS 6. JACQUELINE DARLING,JESSICA TAN 7. MELYSSA HOLLISTER,AMANDA ALVARO 8. KATHLEEN COPE, BRIGETTE CHANG
9. MELINN GODFREY, KIM APPELT 10. AMANDA ALVARO,MELVSSA HOLLISTER, JEN KIRSCH,TAMARA BAHRY, MJ DECOTEAU
The 13th annual International Fashion Encounter rolled out the red runway carpet to support Crohn’s and Colitis Canada
The recent 13th edition of International Fashion Encounter (IFE) showcased the collections of 12 talented Canadian and international fashion designers to a VIP audience of Canadian celebrities, influencers and media. The event, in support of charitable partner Crohn’s and Colitis Canada, kicked off the fashion season in Toronto, allowing designers to debut their latest collections. This was a celebration of multicultural design, in partnership with Toronto Fashion Academy, presented by Mercedes-Benz Downtown Toronto and powered by HP Canada. Showcasing spring/summer, fall/winter, and couture collections, the runway show featured looks reflecting global fashion trends, with a focus on Canadian talent. Models strutted the runway, including people affected by Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis with ostomy bags, to shed light on these lifelong diseases and foster inclusivity during the show. Renowned jewellery designer Rita Tesolin transformed HP Canada computer parts into jewellery, which was featured on models who walked in the couture show. A proud sponsor of the occasion, HP Canada has sponsored several previous IFE events.
This elegant room, created by Wise Nadel Design, features a striking slab of book-matched Nero Luna marble on the fireplace surround. What an excellent foil for the arched niches that flank it and the soothing palette of the furnishings. See more on page 124.
Left to right: Jeanne Beker, Natasha Koifman, George Sully, Nadia Di Donato, Shelli Oh and Richard Wengle.
LivingLuxe will host its inaugural Design Awards in April, which will celebrate the remarkable work of this city’s interior designers, architects, builders, and fashion designers. Our panel of six judges, who will choose the award winners, represent part of that vast design talent pool themselves. In these pages, the judges discuss why recognizing our home-grown design talent is so important and what they look forward to seeing in the award winners.
As told to Stephanie Whittaker
Photography by Natasha Gerschon & Fabian Di Corcia
Photography venue Toronto Congress Centre
Set furniture by ADM Design Inc.
Jeanne Beker is a seasoned journalist who hosted Fashion Television from 1985 to 2012. She was also editor-in-chief of FQ and SIR magazines from 2003 to 2008 and has authored five books. She is a frequent keynote speaker and guest on many lifestyle shows, and is a regular featured columnist for several publications. Since 2015, she has hosted the series Style Matters with Jeanne Beker on TSC.
Living Luxe: The first Living Luxe Design Awards will take place in April, and its purpose is to celebrate our city’s talented designers. As one of the judges on our panel, what qualities and traits are you looking for in the award winners?
Jeanne Beker: I’m looking for diversity and uniqueness. I want to be surprised and inspired.
LL: As a seasoned fashion journalist who not only has exceptional knowledge of Toronto’s design scene, but also keeps her finger on the pulse of what’s happening in fashion, architecture and interior design around the world, do you believe that having a design community is integral for a designer?
JB: I think designers have unique visions, so they don’t necessarily need a design community. It’s great to be part of an industry, but when it comes to creativity, designers listen to the needs of the people they’re designing for. Design is ultimately for the people and great design is inclusive of the people. It’s important to design spaces for them. People should find inspiration in design. The more sensitive we are to the larger community, the more we find out what people need from design. The best designers design for others, not for themselves.
LL: What exciting projects do you currently have in the pipeline? What are you working on?
JB: I’m working on my sixth book, which is a collection of stories about my well-worn life, a memoir. Also, there’s a documentary being done about me. I’ve been travelling the country speaking for the breast cancer cause as a breast cancer survivor. I’m also working on a new season of TSC’s Style Matters, in addition to developing a number of other exciting projects.
Living Luxe: The first Living Luxe Design Awards event will take place in April, and its purpose is to celebrate our city’s talented designers. As one of the judges on our panel, what qualities and traits are you looking for in the award winners?
Nadia Di Donato: I’m looking for a rule breaker. I love to see projects and designers that push design boundaries and are not afraid to showcase something they believe in even if that means being less traditional with the “rules” of design.
LL: Nadia, you bring decades of experience in design to the judges’ table, making you a natural to seek out designers who excel in their fields. What do you believe the designers on this shortlist bring to the table?
NDD: What stands out about the designers on this shortlist is their ability not only to meet but also exceed the expectations of the industry. They're not just creating spaces; they're crafting experiences as trendsetters and visionaries. They don't follow the latest design fads, they create them. Their work demonstrates an understanding of the ever-evolving tastes and preferences of clients, and they fuse these insights with their own unique, artistic perspectives.
LL: As a seasoned designer who not only has exceptional knowledge of Toronto’s design scene, but who also keeps her finger on the pulse of interior design, architecture, and fashion around the world, do you believe that having a platform (a community) is integral for a designer?
NDD: Having a platform or community is absolutely integral for a designer in today's interconnected world. It serves as a two-way channel for inspiration and recognition. Design is an evolving field, and staying attuned to global trends is essential. A platform provides exposure to diverse influences and fresh ideas, helping designers remain innovative. Furthermore, it fosters collaboration, enabling designers to exchange ideas, knowledge, and experiences, which can be enriching.
LL: We know innovation is at the forefront of exciting design, and it takes creative visionaries to make a mark on their industries. What have been some of your favourite design innovations over the years, and how do creativity and transformation factor into your search for award winners?
NDD: One of my favourites is the integration of smart technology into interior design, making my spaces more intuitive and personalized. Integrating automation such as smart lighting, smart entertainment, smart heating and cooling, automatic sensors on doors, etc. I seek designers who have the ability to transcend the ordinary. Ultimately, it's the designers who can blend today’s modern design innovations with their own aesthetic appeal, that stand out in my search for award winners.
Nadia Di Donato is vice-president and creative director of the Liberty Entertainment Group, a company that develops and operates various landmark establishments, including such specialevent facilities as Casa Loma and a large number of restaurants and bars.
LL: What exciting projects do you currently have in the pipeline? What are you working on?
NDD: I am currently working on a 10,000-square-foot landmark restaurant project in Union Station. The designs are well on the way for this new steak and sushi house. West-meets-East elements will define the design of the interior. Honouring the integrity of sustainability, this project’s ethos is expressed through the layers of natural Canadian maple millwork, handcrafted repurposed iron-work, wool textiles and natural stone. The local and natural material in the aesthetics will be combined with integrated state-of-the-art audio-visual and lighting innovation.
Living Luxe: The first Living Luxe Design Awards will take place in April, with the purpose of celebrating our city’s talented designers. As one of the judges on our panel, what qualities and traits are you looking for in the award winners?
Natasha Koifman: I’m looking for creativity, attention to detail, and to have an emotional connection with the space. A thoughtful approach to design is always key for me.
LL: Natasha, you bring decades of experience in the public relations realm to the judges’ table, making you a natural to seek out designers who excel in their fields. As this is our first time presenting these awards, what do you believe the designers on this shortlist bring to the table?
Natasha Koifman is the founder and principal at NKPR, a full-service public relations, advertising, talent, marketing and digital agency. Established in 2002, NKPR has offices in Toronto and New York and represents more than 40 national and international brands.
NK: A project dear to my heart was Natasha The Residences by Lanterra Developments. The interiors were led by Alessandro Munge, the Founder of Studio Munge; I worked with Alessandro on the interiors for the condo project and amenity spaces. I appreciated his vision in considering how people will use the space. To me this is key. Create beautiful surroundings for those who will create memories in what you design. What sets apart the shortlisted designers is their ability to innovate, captivate, and inspire.
LL: As a seasoned publicist with experience in artist management and digital media, you not only have knowledge of Toronto’s design scene, but also watch what’s happening in fashion, architecture and interior design around the world. Do you believe having a platform (a community) is integral for a designer?
NK: Absolutely. It’s about creating a community and two-way conversation. In our digital age, having a community allows designers to reach a broader and more diverse audience, locally and globally. A social platform allows designers to share their creative vision, connect with like-minded individuals, and access valuable resources and opportunities.
LL: We all know innovation is at the forefront of exciting design, and it takes creative visionaries to make a mark on their industries. What have been some of your favourite design innovations over the years, and how do they factor into your search for award winners?
NK: The best design innovations happen when designers actively listen and observe how their clients use a space. Creativity, functionality and transformation factor into every aspect of design.
LL: What exciting projects do you currently have in the pipeline?
NK: I purchased a building in the Queen Street West area a year ago and we moved into our new office this fall. People work differently today than they did five years ago, so we’ve created a variety of work areas. Whether the team works at the large 20-foot sofa, workstations, or the stainless steel coffee bar, they’re surrounded by light from windows on every side. One of the most exciting features of our new space is the integration of a rooftop area, a fire pit, and an outdoor kitchen by Garden Living. In addition, we have a client showroom that includes brands such as SOREL, SMEG, Arc'teryx, and Back to Earth Skin, providing a fresh new setting to represent our clients and their latest collections. We also have a “No Sugar Shop” by No Sugar Company in our office, which the team is really excited about.
Living Luxe: The first Living Luxe Design Awards event will take place in April, and its purpose is to celebrate our city’s talented designers. As one of the judges on our panel, what qualities and traits are you looking for in the award winners?
Shelli Oh: I’m looking forward to seeing each designer’s inspiration and passion come shining through their works. I believe that exceptional design is the result of not just raw talent, but a love and dedication to ideas and to what is created.
LL: You bring decades of experience in fashion design to the judges’ table, making you a natural to identify designers who excel in their fields. What do you believe the designers on this shortlist bring to the table?
SO: I believe they’ll demonstrate a passion and creativity that pushes boundaries and incites imagination. Their work will make us feel something inside and light a fire within us. These designers will inspire us to be better designers ourselves.
LL: As a seasoned fashion designer who not only has exceptional knowledge of Toronto’s design scene, but also observes what’s happening in fashion, architecture and interior design globally, do you believe that having a platform (a community) is integral for a designer?
SO: Having a sense of community is imperative for designers, allowing the world to see their work and share their visions. It’s also imperative that we recognize our homegrown Canadian design talent. Too often, our polite and humble nature means that despite our successes and talent, we’re ignored in our own country until we receive recognition from outside our borders. Sadly, it wasn’t until my success with retailers in the United States that people started to pay attention to me here at home. It’s time we promote our own.
LL: We know innovation is at the forefront of exciting design, and it takes visionaries to make a mark on their industries. What have been some of your favourite design innovations over the years? How do creativity and transformation factor into your search for award winners?
SO: The fashion industry has embraced technology, opening new opportunities for designers. The introduction of 3D printing allowed fashion designers to create fantastical pieces and unique textures. A passion for sustainable and cruelty-free options for leather inspired the industry to create revolutionary textile equivalents that are 100 per cent plant-based without the use of polluting synthetic materials. For years, vegan leather—while cruelty-free— still contained polyurethane, which impacted the environment. This pushed innovators to create plant-based leathers. It's this kind of imagination and drive that changes the way we see and react to the world, inspiring change. I want to feel that energy in the award-winning designs.
Shelli Oh is a Toronto designer of womenswear and menswear whose creations are designed as “wearable art.” Since launching her debut collection in 1997, she has garnered attention and acclaim across North America for her innovative creations.
LL: What exciting projects are you working on?
SO: I’m working on my new collection in which I’m exploring new techniques and applications to build on my creation of “tactile landscapes” through texture. My collections are designed to inspire joy and whimsy as pieces that establish an emotional connection to the wearer. They’re designed to be wearable art. This new collection will feature more gender-fluid pieces and some exciting collaborative pieces with artist Yaleh Paxton-Harding. We’ve recently launched our current collection in the POP Group Showrooms in London and Los Angeles.
George Sully is an award-winning fashion entrepreneur, footwear and accessories designer based in Toronto. He serves as the founder and creative director of Sully & Son Co., a gender-neutral travel and accessories brand. He is also the creator of Black Designers of Canada, the country's largest online index dedicated to amplifying the work of Black designers within the field of design.
Living Luxe: The first Living Luxe Design Awards event will take place in April, and its purpose is to celebrate our city’s talented designers. As one of the judges on our panel, what qualities are you looking for in the award winners?
George Sully: What excites me most is the prospect of discovering designs that showcase exceptional creativity and innovation—designs that not only captivate aesthetically but also integrate functionality and practicality. Sustainability and environmental consciousness will also play a role, as I look forward to lauding designs that prioritize eco-friendly practices.
LL: George, you bring a decade of experience in footwear and accessory design to the judges’ table, making you a natural to seek out designers who excel in their fields. What do you believe the designers on this shortlist bring to the table?
GS: They embody a blend of creativity, technical prowess, and an understanding of market trends and consumer preferences. Their strengths lie in originality, showcasing fresh ideas and innovative use of materials, coupled with a strong foundation in technical skills and craftsmanship.
LL: As a seasoned designer who keeps track of what’s happening in fashion, architecture and interior design around the world, do you believe having a platform (a community) is integral for a designer?
GS: Yes, it is. In the fiercely competitive design landscape, networking, exposure, feedback, growth, resource-sharing, and collaboration opportunities are essential for professional advancement and creative innovation. A community provides validation, support, and a sense of belonging. However, designers need to be cautious of potential distractions, conformity to trends, and the significant time and energy investment that active involvement in a community demands.
LL: We know innovation is at the forefront of exciting design, and it takes creative visionaries to make a mark on their industries. What have been some of your favourite design innovations over the years? How does creativity and transformation factor into your search for award winners?
GS.: We shouldn’t skim over the impact that smartphones and electric vehicles have had on our lives. Equally captivating is the evolution in architecture and interior design, in which we've witnessed an integration of smart building materials, intelligent lighting, and cutting-edge surveillance systems, transforming our living spaces into more efficient, connected environments. Additionally, the strides made in 3D printing, AI, and robotics have been remarkable, sparking our creative imaginations. When it comes to selecting award winners, a primary focus is on valuing designs that break from the norm to present solutions that are brimming with imagination.
LL: What exciting projects do you currently have in the pipeline? What are you working on?
GS.: As most of my clientele know, my Sully & Son Co. footwear and accessories brand can be found online and at Harry Rosen, Hudson’s Bay, and most recently, Holt Renfrew. Additionally, I'm excited to announce that Saks Fifth Avenue in New York has joined our list of retailers. While I have a few more announcements to make, I'm currently bound by NDAs but look forward to sharing them soon.
Living Luxe: The first Living Luxe Design Awards event will take place in April, and its purpose is to celebrate our city’s talented designers. As one of the judges, what qualities and traits are you looking for in the award winners?
Richard Wengle: This event will expose the judges to the diversity of style, originality, technical prowess, and fearlessness that is paramount for designers to stand out from the crowd. Not every project or product needs to break barriers though. I am also interested in looking for modern interpretations of classic design that has a long shelf life and is not just of the moment.
LL: Richard, you bring decades of architectural experience to the judges’ table, making you a natural to seek out designers who excel in their fields. What do you believe the designers on this shortlist bring to the table?
RW: I believe that aside from creativity, designers must possess an arsenal of traits such as diversity and flexibility of style, attention to detail, technical expertise and, most important, passion for their craft.
LL: As a seasoned architect who has exceptional knowledge of Toronto’s architectural and design scene and watches architecture, interior design and fashion around the world, do you believe that having a platform (a community) is integral for a designer?
RW: There are so many designers who seek instantaneous feedback and approval through social media alone. As much as I believe this is beneficial to some extent, it tends to hurry or water down good design for the sake of a social presence. I don’t think this leads to better design. However, having a platform where one’s work can be properly exposed and celebrated attests to the true talents and authenticates a designer’s ability and importance through peer review.
LL: We know innovation is at the forefront of exciting design, and it takes creative visionaries to make a mark on their industries. What have been some of your favourite design innovations over the years, and how do creativity and transformation factor into your search for award winners?
RW: Without innovation, one rarely sees progress in any field. I believe that innovation is rooted in history, whether one realizes it or not. I often see young designers proclaiming to have “discovered” the next trend when in fact, it has been done many years before their time. Regardless, having a solid understanding of the past allows one to realize a new interpretation that can be transformed into new styles. Computers, for example, are tools that have allowed designers to break barriers with fluid designs that never could have been imagined decades ago. However, they are only tools. One must not forget what the brain, hand and eye can create.
Architect Richard Wengle is the founder and principal of the eponymous firm Richard Wengle Architect Inc., founded in 1992. He is renowned for designing luxury homes and condominiums in the Greater Toronto Area and southern Ontario.
LL: What exciting projects are you working on?
RW: We have several luxury mid- and high-rise buildings in the design and construction stages throughout the Toronto area, including an exciting high-rise project that will be built in Waterloo. We have dozens of bespoke single-family residences in the Toronto, Vaughan, Hamilton, Lake Simcoe and Muskoka regions that are in early planning and construction stages. We also have some residential projects in Nassau, and are completing the design of the very first synagogue to be built in The Bahamas.
Many varieties of the timeless, elegant stone are used in the interior design of this Lytton Park home.By Adriana Ermter Photography by Valerie Wilcox
Marble has been a staple design element in homes for centuries, even millennia. Throughout our homes, we use marble on kitchen countertops, entryway floors, bathroom vanities, and fireplace mantels. Yet for Robin Nadel, designer and co-founder of Wise Nadel Design Inc. in Toronto, the use of marble is also an art form, and the inspiration behind her latest interior design project. “Marble was my muse,” Nadel says. “I used it in every room of the home intentionally, as art to make the interior unique.”
The transitional-style home in Lytton Park was designed by architect Lorne Rose and built by Tischler Custom Homes. This neighbourhood is sought after for its wide, tree-lined streets, proximity to private schools and familyfriendly amenities. The 6,000-squarefoot, three-storey home connects well with the community’s blend of new and established architecture. Its buff brick exterior, mansard roof and portico are a nod to French elegance. “The clients are a dynamic couple with a young family,” says Nadel. “They came from a classically designed and
Marble was my muse. I used it in every room of the home intentionally, as art to make the interior unique.
decorated home and wanted this one to be edgier, but timeless, with a European sensibility. That’s why I focused on marble. It was an appropriate material to use because it’s classic; it creates a sense of life and movement while also serving as a focal point that anchors the room. It’s luxe but not flashy and it complements both my clients’ personalities and the way in which they live.”
This marble tour-de-force begins in the foyer, where French Blue de Savoie floors, banded in Nero Marquina, stretch beneath a large marble archway. A gold-framed mirror, white panelled walls, and transitional light fixtures complete the elegant look. Continuing into the dining room, white oak floors in a chevron pattern contrast with deep blue sculptural chairs. The adjoining wine cellar is visible behind a metal and glass wall, showcasing the clients’ wine collection and a back-lit white onyx accent wall. A Midnight Crystal quartzite fireplace wall and a smoked-glass chandelier finish the look of this eyecatching entertaining space.
As we follow the stunning oak floors into the openconcept kitchen and family room, we are struck by a large slab of book-matched Nero Luna marble that frames the fireplace, flanked on each side by arched niches. Each niche is home to a piece of contemporary art, inserting a punch of colour into the space. “The couple brought their art with them along with a remarkable Brigitte Bardot piece,” says Nadel. “The paintings, combined with the fireplace’s black and white marble, stand in contrast to the
otherwise classic and neutral palette of greys and whites. These colourful and dramatic elements bring this family room to life.”
Turning our attention to the Parisian-inspired kitchen, we can be forgiven for initially looking past the Sub-Zero panelled refrigerator, Miele dishwasher, and Wolf gas range, as the marble once again steals the show. Calacatta Super White clads the counters, waterfall island, and backsplash, providing high contrast for the teal bar stools and black and brass La Cornue-inspired range hood. And behind the open brass wall-hung étagère, we find a grey and blush-pink Dover White marble slab that brings an immediate smile to our designer’s face. “We call it the Gwyneth Paltrow marble,” says Nadel. “The moment I saw it on her bar, featured in Architectural Digest, I knew I had to use it.”
In the main-floor powder room, the Calacatta marble vanity echoes the chicness of custom-made mirrors and moody teal wallpaper. Nearby, the study is a serene space with linen inset in a shallow coffered ceiling; drapes and cushions in fabrics that borrow from men’s suiting and ties; and a striking Emerald Green marble fireplace that acts as a foil for it all. In fact, these artistic marble installations delight throughout both the home’s upper and lower levels, at times in the most unexpected places. Even upstairs, tucked away at the top of a secluded stairwell, we find a private dressing room. And there, among the wallto-wall closets, full of designer shoes and purses, is a sublime Lilac marble island at the centre of it all. “Every room in the house was envisioned with my clients in mind,” says Nadel. “They’re authentic, well-travelled, and very fashionable. We have not only created a backdrop for their dynamic life, but we’ve also curated a collage of marble moments.”
Twoyears ago, the five-bedroom property in the York Mills area of Toronto was not much to look at. “Like so many new-build houses you see today, the interior design was very generic, very boring, and in no way reflected the new owners’ personalities,” says designer Diana Rose, principal and creative director at Diana Rose Design. The good: There were grandly proportioned rooms in 6,500 square feet of living space spread over two storeys, plus a finished basement. Plenty of room to grow for the homeowner and her family, which includes four children of primary school age and younger.
Almost every room in the home originally featured walls and ceilings painted stark white, faux marble fireplace surrounds and off-the-shelf built-in cabinetry. It would take more than a year to transform the cavernous, sterile house into the showstopper it is today. The homeowner resonated with the designer’s approachable style that deftly blends modern and transitional décor with a soupçon of Old-World elegance. “And the homeowner loves interior design and art, and has wonderful taste— and actually likes renovations,” Rose said. “We make a great team.”
Worth keeping were the heated floors in the foyer and primary bathroom, made of large marble-look porcelain slabs. So was the medium taupe hardwood flooring that runs throughout the house. But the designer would have to add the architectural details that would bring the home’s design into proportion and add a sense of bespoke luxury. The primary bedroom’s dramatic transformation involved stripping everything down to the floorboards. Up went softly textured wall panels and coordinated moulding, along with a wallpapered accent wall. Above the customdesigned bed with upholstered headboard, a pearlescent lacquered ceiling gleams. A private lounge area completes what is now a chic, elegant dove-grey and blush-pink oasis.
Rose meets with every client to determine what she calls their “design archetype,” or core style. For this homeowner, it is artistic, by which the designer
IT TRULY IS A WARM AND INVITING HOME FOR ALL THE FAMILY TO ENJOY.
means someone not afraid to use colour and imagery in inventive ways. “She also made bold choices,” Rose says. “Every time I would propose a really wild idea, she would say yes.” One such notion was to flank the living room fireplace with floor-to-ceiling grass-green Gucci murals depicting large herons. The comfortable, deep-seated furniture is in discreetly neutral colours. The exception: a custom bench topped with cheeky black-and-white houndstooth bolsters. Overhead, many of the excessive pot lights were removed and a
striking brass chandelier and wall sconces added.
The living room lies between the formal dining room and informal breakfast area, and each is open to the other. Rose used different ceiling moulding details to define them. Over the breakfast nook, she installed a circle of plaster moulding covered with burnished gold foil wallpaper. From it hangs a chandelier over a marble-topped table, surrounded by floral velvet chairs on one side, a large, curved bench under the bay window on the other. In contrast, the formal
dining room’s ceiling features lightly textured, shimmery wallpaper. It’s just one way in which pattern and texture combine to create discreet design interest. The calm blue-grey colour scheme invites elegant dining. Abstract shapes grace wallpapered panels along the length of one wall. And one conceals a secret: a hidden door leading to the butler’s pantry and the kitchen beyond. The chairs’ emeraldgreen upholstery echoes the living room’s mural colour.
One of the homeowner’s bold choices was a gracefully quirky topaz-blue glass standalone bathtub sourced in France. It would dictate the primary bedroom’s ensuite bathroom design. Rose wanted the space to have a jewel box look, designing the wall-length floating vanity to look more like furniture than a cabinet. Sophisticated brass inlays, one of the designer’s signatures, are echoed in Kate Spade wall sconces, while stone vessel sinks further elevate the look. Plaster
ceiling moulding adds architectural detail. “To add softness to all the hard, polished surfaces, I chose the central chandelier because it resembles a pearl necklace,” says the designer. “Along with drapery, which is unusual for a bathroom.”
Variations on the above themes appear throughout the home and create continuity. The soft blue-grey drapes with white sheers also appear on the main floor, helping the eye connect the open diningliving-breakfast areas. Many of the lighting fixtures, each distinctive and often sourced by the homeowner, include a touch of pearly glass. Now that the home is completed, designer and homeowner are eyeing the pool house as a next project. “We became very close, working together to inject presence and elegance along with her unique style,” Rose says. “As well, it truly is a warm and inviting home for all the family to enjoy.”
This stunning estate in Puslinch offers lakeside serenity within reach of the city.By Adriana Ermter
The township of Puslinch may be only a one-hour drive from Toronto, but it has the quiet tranquility that is usually sought much farther afield. The peaceful region is known for its lakefront estate homes on Puslinch Lake, one of which is on the market. Coveted for its exclusive locale inside a gated community, this shoreline property is situated on the point of the lake. It’s a blend of modern luxury and natural beauty, and the private lake access offers opportunities for summer boating and winter ice fishing not far from the urban buzz of Toronto. And then there are the sunsets, says Steve Bailey, a broker and managing partner with The Agency (Waterloo, Brantford, Oakville, Muskoka, Toronto West and York Region offices) and the listing agent for the property.
“People move here specifically for a view like this,” he says. “With this home you can sit next to the water with a glass of wine and watch the sun go down every day. The sunsets frame the lake and their colours reflect off the water. Plus, it’s a getaway from the noise, where you can live peacefully and comfortably.” Comfort that is defined by the home’s French-country style. Behind its wroughtiron gates and semicircular driveway, the 3,200-square-foot home is on one level. Set on a half-acre, it boasts a façade of Montreal stone and mullioned windows. The property has an attached three-car garage. A detached coach house has a garage for a single car and a bedroom.
Beneath an arched stone entryway, the estate’s curved wood and etched-glass front door leads to an expansive foyer with marble floors and a hand-cut stone
Photography by SOARE ProductionsIt’s a place to escape, to recharge, and to enjoy the calming effects of the lake and the incredible sunsets.
feature wall mirroring the exterior. A sparkling crystal chandelier illuminates the space. Around the foyer’s corner, an open-concept kitchen is open to the main living area. Sixteen-foot ceilings afford a sense of expansiveness, while a largescale island, dark hardwood floors, wood ceiling beams and a two-sided wood-burning stone fireplace that extends into the adjacent library create a sense of casual comfort and warmth.
“It’s a great space for entertaining,” says Bailey. “On the living room side of the room, you’ve got a wall of windows that look straight out onto the lake. Beyond the walkout doors is the patio with its pizza oven, barbecue and outdoor stone fireplace. On the other side of the room, you’ve got the perfect kitchen and dining area to host parties and dinners.” Ideally suited for large and small gatherings, the chef’s kitchen has ample space for cooking and dining. With a soothing creamy colour palette, it has traditional cabinetry, granite countertops and a marble backsplash. High-end stainless-steel appliances include a Wolf gas range and pot filler. A walk-in wine cellar is located through an open doorway to the kitchen’s right.
Past this open-plan area, spacious hallways lead to the main house’s primary suite, two guest bedrooms and four and a half bathrooms. The main suite with its wall of windows and French doors leading to a patio for a close-up view of Puslinch Lake is the showstopper. “It’s one of a kind,” says Bailey. “You wake up to the water. It’s literally steps from the bedroom," as are the deep walk-in closet with its hanging racks, multiple drawers and shoe shelving, and the large marble-tiled spa-style ensuite bathroom with its stand-alone soaker tub, glass-encased shower and dual vanity sinks. “The flooring in the ensuite and throughout the home is radiant-heated too, so you’ll never feel cold even when it’s snowing outside,” Bailey says.
Outdoors, beyond the main estate with its additional laundry, mud and office rooms, is a 699-square-foot guest cottage, replete with one bedroom and bathroom. Styled in complementary French-country design, this cozy retreat is perfect for visitors or for family members seeking time alone. “Everything here is so unique because it’s off the beaten path,” says Bailey. “It’s a place to escape, to recharge, and to enjoy the calming effects of the lake and the incredible sunsets.”
How a Toronto designer transforms modern interiors by using elements to make them warm and inviting.By Stephanie Whittaker by Matthew Young
For many people, the mention of modern design elicits images of austere rooms with uncomfortable seating. Rutnaish Prihar wants to change that. The Toronto designer and principal at RP Design is creating environments she describes as “modern with warmth. Modern design has been generally considered cold and stark," she says. "I’ve taken the stark and added warmth.” More later on how she achieves that. First, however, let’s take a side trip into how Prihar became a designer whose own home embodied the modern-warm ethos so spectacularly that it was featured in the Wall Street Journal when it was on the real estate market.
An accountant by profession, Prihar harboured a creative streak throughout her life. After she married and became a stay-at-home mother, her creativity became apparent when she and her husband had their own home built in Oakville in 2005, and she designed it in a traditional style. “That’s how it started,” Prihar says. “When we built our second home in 2011, I designed it in a transitional style. The third was modern. People would ask me if I designed homes for a living or just for us. I would draw design elements to make the home functional for our family. Our builder told me he on-boarded new clients by showcasing our homes.”
Prihar launched RP Design in 2018 and began designing for clients. While sharpening her craft on her own homes, she came to realize that she loves the simplicity of modern design, which she integrated into the family’s third custom-built home. After living in it for a few years, she and her husband decided to test the market on the suggestion of a real estate agent. “We put the house on the market in 2021 and it sold in 10 days,” she says. During that time, it was featured in various up-scale real estate publications, including the Wall Street Journal’s luxury real estate section. “I had built the perfect home for my family, so we were all stunned and sad when it sold so quickly.”
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When I see a space, all these ideas flow into my head. They just come through the creative side of me. It’s the way my brain works.
After searching for a property for more than a year, the couple found a perfect building lot in Oakville in 2022 for their next home, which is currently in the planning stages. And the modern-warm look will define its design, says Prihar, adding that there are several key elements needed to create modern interiors that aren’t cold and stark. “Wood bestows warmth and texture on interiors, but ideally it’s not honey-coloured,” she says. “I used a lot of walnut when I designed our last home. It has cool undertones without the warm, honey colour.” She also used stained white oak on the floors to mimic walnut.
Another warming element is area rugs. “A lot of modern spaces don’t have rugs, or the rugs are too small,” says Prihar, who is now designing bespoke area rugs for her clients. “Rugs add warmth and ground the furnishings in a space. They allow pieces of furniture to come together cohesively. I recently designed a bedroom for clients in Forest Hill, which included a 10-by-14-foot hand-knotted rug that I designed and had made in Nepal.”
And then there’s the low-slung seating that’s popular in modern design. “This lowto-the-floor seating is not comfortable,” Prihar says. “Seating that’s higher is more inviting and comfortable.” Texture, too, is a key element, including plush fabrics for accent pillows, throws, and upholstery. “I use velvet, wool, suede and cashmere in rich shades that complement the overall design,” she says. “I use soft fabrics for seating.”
Prihar favours a neutral palette. “In our third home, I used white on most of the walls; on the feature walls, I used a rich grey.” Artwork, she adds, is an essential element that injects colour and warmth. For instance, she enlarged a vibrant photograph she had taken of graffiti in Melbourne. “It added a jolt of colour and became an eye-catching feature in the dining room,” she says. Scale, too, is important. “If you have tiny pieces of furniture, they’ll look like specks in a large space. Ideally, your furniture needs to fill out the space to warm it up,” Prihar says. The right lighting is another key constituent. “I make sure there are pendant lights and chandeliers rather than relying solely on pot lights,” she says. “If you’re using LED lights, they should cast a warm white glow, not a cold, bluish colour.”
Layering materials, colours and textures creates visual interest and depth: “A rug on hardwood flooring, accent pillows and throws on furniture, extra pillows and a throw on soft sateen bedding are just a couple of examples,” Prihar says. She is intuitive about designing physical spaces. “When I see a space, all these ideas flow into my head,” she says. “They just come through the creative side of me. It’s the way my brain works.”
in Innisfil, this beloved family abode has stood the test of time, remaining within the same family's embrace for decades. From the original owners to their children and now their grandchildren, three generations have cherished many vacations in this much-loved cottage. However, the time for transformation had arrived. The once-charming cottage had lost its lustre and displayed signs of wear and tear, its layout trapped in a bygone era: many separate rooms cut off from each other, small bathrooms, insufficient lighting, a cramped kitchen.
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Andrea McMullen, the creative mind behind ADM Design Inc., alongside her dedicated design manager, Chelsea Brilhante, and their team embarked on a mission to transform the two-storey dwelling into a modern masterpiece. The challenge was to infuse into the space the essence of modernity while retaining its warmth and accommodating three generations' diverse tastes.
So, the work began to remake the cottage. It was an ambitious project that took more than half a year. The building was stripped down to the studs. When given carte blanche, McMullen says, “One might consider carte blanche to be the easiest avenue for a designer, but with so many ideas it was hard to choose what style I wanted to bring to fruition. There are endless possibilities that the
client loved right off the bat. The wife was very particular about having a modern space, with trendy features in black and white. They wanted something with a wow factor but, at the same time, it had to be suitable for the entire family.”
With a canvas of 4,500 square feet, ADM Design set out to redefine the cottage: Walls were torn down, rooms repurposed, and spaces merged to create an open, inviting atmosphere in which everyone could enjoy lake life. The kitchen took over the former dining room, making way for a hidden pantry, coffee station and office space. Even the exterior and garage underwent meticulous renovation in the pursuit of contemporary elegance.
The heart of the transformation was the great room, where a
breathtaking sight unfolds. The room is adorned with floor-toceiling bookcases, flanking a majestic fireplace—fluted from floor to ceiling and illuminated by a suite of exquisite chandeliers. “We found these beautiful fixtures while on a shopping trip in North Carolina and knew they were perfect for this project,” McMullen says. The existing ceiling fan was replaced by four chandeliers, hung at various heights to complement the asymmetrical space. This space, bathed in light, embodies the concept of "lighting as art." The decor seamlessly integrates black and white contrasts, with a butter-soft custom leather Bugatti sectional sofa, ideal for the demands of lake life. Grounding the furniture is an earth-toned rug with a web of black lines meandering across it, a stylized pattern of cracked earth that manages to look simultaneously straight and curved. That marriage of straight and curved lines in black and white is echoed in the
beautiful decor pieces curated across the shelves and tabletops. In the heart of the home, the kitchen stands as a testament to creativity. An expansive island, clad in heat-resistant Dekton, doubles as a functional art piece. The strategic use of contrasting colours conceals appliances and adds interest to the space. Behind smokedglass doors, there are surprises: a hidden coffee station and pantry. Layers of inlay lighting add a sophisticated glow to the high-gloss white cabinetry. The result is a kitchen that marries aesthetics with practicality, embodying the essence of clean lines and innovative design.
One of the remarkable feats of this renovation lies in the laundry room and powder room. Through ingenious design, a hallway was seamlessly transformed into the new laundry room, which embraces both functionality and beauty. The space welcomes one with its
neutral Spanish floor tiles, guiding one seamlessly through the area. Custom cabinetry spans from wall to wall; it optimizes storage efficiently and is adorned with exquisite hardware pulls. The powder room boasts wild wallpaper and a suspended circular light that casts a soft glow over the mirror. The full stone custom floating vanity contrasts against the organic black and natural tones in the wallpaper. The interplay of straight and curved lines, enhanced by black and gold fixtures, creates a modern and inviting ambience. “Laundry rooms and powder rooms provide an excellent opportunity to design a space that breaks from the norm,” McMullen says.
As the curtains rose on reveal day, three generations gathered, their anticipation palpable. The reactions were unanimous: excitement, satisfaction, and sheer happiness. ADM Design had not just created a home, they had crafted a timeless masterpiece, where lighting transcends function and becomes art, where clean lines harmonize with creativity, and where every corner tells a story of innovation and elegance.
Secluded Thornhill home offers refined family living with gracious entertainment space
By Phillipa Rispin Photography by Tyler McKeag
Imaginethat, after a busy day in the hustle and bustle of downtown, you head toward Thornhill for home. As you travel, your surroundings become greener, quieter. If you didn’t know it was there, you might pass the discreet entrance to your street, heavily shaded as it is with mature trees. Head down the peaceful cul-de-sac under a canopy of trees, then through the gated entrance of the long driveway and into the forecourt of this home: a quietly elegant haven among the green. Available for purchase in the desirable neighbourhood of Bayview Glen, the home is tangible proof of the art of excellence. The two-storey building, designed by architect Peter Higgins and listed by Hammond International Properties, is nestled into a treed lot approximately 100 feet wide and 300 feet deep. “There are only seven homes on the street,” says Jerry Hammond, principal of Hammond International Properties. “The street is a hidden treasure in a boutique neighbourhood.”
The imposing exterior features hand-cut natural stone with a slate roof. Numerous windows speak of the bright interior where designer Maria DiFiore has contrasted floors of warm wide-plank oak and elegant Carrara marble with neutral walls and crisp dark grey trim. Upon entering the home, the visitor is
welcomed through the vestibule into a spacious hall that extends the depth of the building. “You can see right through to the grounds at the rear of the house,” Hammond says. In the hallway, a grand stairway rises to the second storey. Below it, another flight leads to the lower level. To the immediate right off the hallway is the grand salon, a large, airy room with walls that rise, like most of the home’s indoor spaces, 11 feet to the ceiling. One wall features a fireplace with an outstanding book-matched marble surround and hearth. There is plenty of space for several groupings of seating to accommodate intimate conversation or large parties.
Across the hall from the grand salon is the well-appointed kitchen. It’s replete with work surfaces and storage space, including a pantry and custom-crafted maple cabinets. All the appliances are by Sub-Zero/Wolf. An oversized island holds pride of place in the centre of the room, offering a large work surface, a prep sink and counter seating. The far end of the kitchen opens to the family room with bi-fold doors to the garden. A cased opening leads from the kitchen to the formal dining room—a place for family dining that is nonetheless able to accommodate dinner parties. Like most of the rooms on the ground floor, it too has bi-fold doors
“The street is a hidden treasure in a boutique neighbourhood.”
to the outside. Whether the owners are dining en famille, hosting a formal dinner, or throwing a large catered party, the kitchen, dining room and grand salon rise to the occasion. The ground floor also features a snug library with handsome cabinetry.
“It has beautiful millwork in solid wood with floorto-ceiling bookcases,” Hammond says, noting that “it’s a cozy spot for reading or watching television. If the weather is nice, you can throw open its double bi-fold doors and take a book for reading out on the patio.”
The second storey is given over to the bedrooms.
“The sweeping staircase to the second floor was built with slightly lower risers than usual for ease of movement,” says Hammond. The principal suite occupies one wing, comprising bedroom, his and hers dressing rooms, and a luxurious bathroom with free-standing tub and steam shower. The other wing features four junior suites as well as a laundry room. As Hammond notes, there are many amenities on the property: “Besides a laundry room on the upper floor, there’s another one on the main floor that also has a dog-washing station.” The lower level provides space for numerous diversions: a temperature-controlled walk-in wine cellar with a tasting bar and racking for 100 bottles; a home theatre, a gym, and a lounge with wet bar and a walkout to the backyard. The outdoor space is generous and private. “One of the beauties of the property is the siting,” Hammond says. “The lot is nicely treed, and the long drive adds to the privacy.” The backyard features a heated lanai with a barbecue station, a heated terrace on two levels, a heated pool and a cabana.
As befits this grand residence, there is a threebay garage with a wash bay. It offers plenty of room for several vehicles, including one bay with a lift for double-height parking. Upstairs is a compact selfcontained apartment. Handsome design, plentiful features and close attention to finishes in this home are the hallmark of excellence.
Dee Dee Taylor Eustace creates a place to hang one’s hat and kick off the riding boots.By Julie Gedeon Photography by Michael Price
Living on a ranch was not what renowned architect/interior designer Dee Dee Taylor Eustace ever had in mind. But she embraced the idea after her now husband, former Canadian polo champion Bobby Genovese, bought a property in Ocala, Florida. “Horses are his passion, so I wanted to make his dream of living on a ranch truly beautiful and a place our whole family would love to be, too,” says the founder of Taylor Hannah Architect in Toronto. “I kid about adding the elegant touches, like Eva Gabor’s character in Green Acres.”
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Horse riding, jumping and polo games are just some of the blended family’s activities on the 100-acre (40-hectare) property. “Our two daughters ride, but our two boys aren’t into it,” Eustace says. There’s also a pool, pickleball court and trampoline. The existing merry-go-round, along with a small train that her guests board to tour the ranch, required some love and attention. They use the train while enjoying their cocktails. New guests are
often surprised by the concrete elephants, rhinoceros and other animals that came with the ranch. Eustace had them painted and furred for whimsy. “My husband has this amazing love of life,” she says. “His hashtag is #whohasmorefunthanus?”
She says that anyone who dreams of having something unique as part of their home should keep an eye open for it from unexpected places. “It’s amazing what you come across, as well as what you can repurpose,” she says. The home’s interior required extensive work after sitting empty for two years. Eustace set out to make it a home in harmony with the realities of ranch life. “I didn’t get caught up in ego, but rather looked at how I could simply make it absolutely beautiful in still practical and lasting ways,” she explains. “For instance, I just changed the pool table’s felt to grey rather than buy a new table. We ordered most of the furniture all online with truckloads of deliveries.”
Sophisticated ease defines the decor. “The rules of good design— access, symmetry and repetition—are still at work but in simpler, sometimes more casual ways for the ranch vibe,” she says. A cowhide blanket on the back of the sectional sofa creates a back-country feel. The fresh flowers arranged in steel buckets and the herringbone
blankets cinched with a leather belt are other rustic charms. “My architectural background has me looking at everything structurally,” Eustace says, explaining that it’s essential to repeat decorative elements to establish a pattern.
White paint throughout the house established a cohesive canvas. Eustace then added personal touches, such as the couple’s recent wedding photos displayed in all similar black frames, and the coffee table books that she selects and stacks for browsing. “Different colours in connecting rooms can be jarring and make a space look smaller,” she says. “By having one colour, either white or grey, you create a continuity that makes a home feel more expansive.” The dark flooring is forgiving of the family’s two dogs and anyone who enters the space with muddied riding boots. “I also picked linens and other durable fabrics so that people could feel right at home in putting their feet up without it being an issue,” Eustace says. By having ottomans as side tables, desk chairs and footrests, the home is intimate and spacious when just the couple are there but has plenty of seating for when family and friends gather. “While always cozy, the space could just as easily host a
corporate event or large retreat,” she adds. Other than the fresh paint, she has left the indoor kitchen and bathrooms as they were. “Perhaps I’ll do them one day, but that’s not where any of us spend a lot of time,” she says.
Cookouts are common on the patio. With the family gathered at the ranch during the pandemic, Eustace reworked the patio with the outdoor kitchen, large pool, and exquisite gardens. “This area in northern Florida is so enjoyable with its magnolias, large oak trees and cooler nights,” she says. Outdoor pizza nights are all about having fun; everyone rolls dough and chooses favourite toppings. “I’ve lost count of the number of pizzas I’ve forgotten and burnt,” Eustace admits. “It’s not so much about the food as it is about making wonderful memories with family and friends.” The pool is positioned to catch the day’s every last ray and then to admire the picturesque sunsets. Nearby planters and fire bowls layer the surrounding landscape before it opens into a broad horse oasis. A casual setting with beautiful horses is what this stunning property was always meant to be.
The luxury pivot door blurs the lines between entrance and art piece. Hinged away from the frame, the panel can occupy a much larger area than a standard door. Available in a wide array of premium materials inspired by your imagination—ceramics, hand-carved liquid metal, meticulously prepared and dyed decorative surfaces and door jewelry. Give your home new life with a masterpiece.
EUROSTAR WINDOWS
55 Administration Road, Unit 22-24, Concord eurostarwindows.ca 416-633-5921
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
Allowing plenty of natural light into a home’s interiors, these all-aluminum windows boast clean lines and a contemporary look. Come and visit our new location.
CHATEAU WINDOW & DOOR SYSTEMS 170 Tycos Drive, North York chateauwindows.com 416-783-3916
Perfect for entertaining, the Dobra dining table has two self-storing leaves that can be manually extended whenever you need a little extra length for guests. Its contemporary and spacesaving design can accommodate every occasion with ease.
Made in Canada, the Hillcrest Drive sofa allows you to indulge in luxury and comfort. With its down-filled seating, it’s available in a wide range of exquisite fabrics and is made to last. Elevate your relaxation, and experience and embrace personalized elegance like never before.
DECORIUM
363 Supertest Road North York decorium.com 416-736-6120
INDUSTRIAL AGE (RIGHT)
This magnificent and complicated design was inspired by the tools and machineries of the Industrial Revolution. Made with the finest hand-spun wool and natural silk.
INCEPTION (LEFT) :
This modern geometric design was inspired by architectural drawings. Made with the finest hand-spun wool and natural silk.
WEAVERS ART
2 - 120 Tycos Drive North York weaversart.com
416-929-7929
“Black Is Beautiful” by Ontario Wallcoverings features a bold floral print that gives the impression of layered origami flowers, printed with shadows and highlights to create a 3D effect. For more information, come and check us out in-store.
VILLAGE PAINT & WALLPAPER
4949 Dundas Street West Etobicoke villagepaintwindowcoverings.ca
416-231-2831
With a sculptural base in matte black and aged brass metal, the Hourglass Console Table is designed to make a shapely statement in your home. It measures 71”W x 17”D x 30”H.
DARLENE JANEIRO DESIGN
92A Dunn Street, Oakville darlenejaneirodesign.com 905-339-8118
The Orto System is perfect along a wall and never feels heavy or overbearing. Frames are available in black, white and aluminum, with a large selection of panels from which to choose. Our designers can customize the cabinet to fit your needs. Contact Komandor to learn more.
KOMANDOR
863 Rangeview Road, Mississauga komandor.ca 416-251-0880
WHERE EVERY TIMELESS HOME STARTS WITH A SKETCH.
The World Is Yours Dual Time Zone is a tribute to the watch that started it all. The watch that opened the world and the world of watchmaking to Jacob Arabo. The World Is Yours Dual Time Zone indicates two time zones, complete with hours and minutes. Each one zone can be set down to the minute. This rare feature is crucial in Jacob & Co.’s view. It is the only way countries with unusual UTC time offsets, like India, can display both local time and home time accurately.