AUTUMN 2018
L U X U R Y. L I V I N G .
DEFINED.
The
Launch Issue! A YORKVILLE PIED A TERRE A C I T Y G E TAWAY FOR ALL SEASONS
DESIGNER DUO COLIN & JUSTIN MEET THE STYLISH B O J A N A S E N TA L E R D I S C OV E R LU S H DOMINICA
210 Clarence Street, Brampton
905.453.6403
www.landolightinggalleries.com
ONTENT
EDITOR’S NOTE
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THE GOODS Colour of the moment, autumn’s best beauty and shapely lighting
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40
WINE Bubbles for a celebration
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ON STAGE Live performances and events
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COMMENT The year that was #MeToo
F E AT U R E S
DÉCOR 16
GREAT CANADIAN ESCAPES Colin McAllister + Justin Ryan give us a peek into two fabulous vacation homes
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TORONTO PIED A TERRE Julie Charbonneau Design shows off a Four Seasons Toronto penthouse
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AUTUMN 2018
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LIVING 32
THE NEW CANNABIS No longer illegal, what does the pot plan really mean?
STYLE 40
SCENTS OF STYLE New fragrances inspired by classics
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DESIGNER PROFILE Meet Bojana Sentaler, the woman behind the next iconic outerwear
TRAVEL 50
ESCAPE The island of Dominica & Secret Bay Resort
FOOD 60
CRITIQUE Don Alfonso 1890
CULTURE 66
ARTIST PROFILE Cem Basarir
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ON THE COVER: Interior by Julie Charbonneau Designs, Four Seasons Toronto. LUXE MAGAZINE • AUTUMN 2 018
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ONTENT
04 EDITOR’S NOTE 09 THE GOODS
62 WINE
40
Bubbles for a celebration
70 ON STAGE Live performances and events 72
COMMENT
The year that was #MeToo
F E AT U R E S 16
22
16
AUTUMN 2018
Colour of the moment, autumn’s best beauty and shapely lighting
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11
50
DÉCOR GREAT CANADIAN ESCAPES Colin McAllister + Justin Ryan give us a peek into two fabulous vacation homes
TORONTO PIED A TERRE Julie Charbonneau Design shows off a Four Seasons Toronto penthouse
LIVING 32
THE NEW CANNABIS No longer illegal, what does the pot plan really mean?
STYLE 40 SCENTS OF STYLE New fragrances inspired by classics 42
DESIGNER PROFILE Meet Bojana Sentaler, the woman behind the next iconic outerwear
TRAVEL 50 ESCAPE
The island of Dominica & Secret Bay Resort
FOOD 60 CRITIQUE
Don Alfonso 1890
CULTURE 66 ARTIST PROFILE Cem Basarir
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ON THE COVER: Interior by Julie Charbonneau Designs, Four Seasons Toronto. LUXE MAGAZINE • AUTUMN 2 018
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LETTERS
WELCOME to LUXE magazine THE ARRIVAL OF AUTUMN is one of those times of
experiences and adventures. It’s about spending time
year that feels like a new beginning.
with the people you love, doing the things that give
As children it was the time of year for shiny new shoes and a fresh package of pretty coloured pencils.
you purpose. It’s about time and being able to spend that time pursuing those things that bring you joy.
It was choosing the perfect outfit for the first day of
We think you’ll find something you love in these
a new year spent with a new group of people. There
pages; something gorgeous, a place you’ll dream of
are, of course, other times of year that have us pause
visiting, an idea you’ll want to talk about more.
and think of renewal. January 1 brings resolutions for
We hope you’ll indulge in the luxury of spending
a year to come; spring has us all breathing a sigh of
time how you wish, and maybe spend a little of that
long winter’s relief, but September still shines for me
time with us.
as the best, new time of year. This autumn we are pleased to start a new chapter and bring you, our dear new reader, the premiere issue of LUXE. In these pages we hope to offer you a curated selection of items and ideas that will interest, inspire and instill the idea of luxury. Luxury is about more
HOLLY CRAWFORD
than designer names and acquiring things. It’s about
Editor-in-Chief
WELCOME TO THE PREMIERE ISSUE OF LUXE!
news about entertainment, travel, fashion, business
It is with great pride and enthusiasm that we offer
and personal relationships; all from your unique
you this new, luxurious magazine. I am a magazine
point of view.
enthusiast and have always found myself profoundly absorbed in their stories and images. Here at LUXE, we believe that a good magazine should be like a good friend: it should surprise, delight and inform. LUXE will be a magazine that selects and presents ideas that will appeal to you. We will strive to keep you engaged. In short, it will
I hope you enjoy our first issue, and I welcome your reaction to the features and profiles we present. I’m sure you will find much to spark your interest, provoke and inspire you in the pages of LUXE. And like me, I hope you too will be absorbed in our stories and images. Enjoy!
be a good read. Our team is hard at work, behind the scenes, to present you with a publication you will look forward to receiving month after month. Our ambition is to report on your lifestyle activities,
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suggest new areas to explore, present intriguing
ORIANA MANTELLO
personalities from the world of art, and bring you
Publisher
LUXE MAGAZINE • AUTUMN 2 018
SPIRITED. SOULFUL. UNMISTAKABLY ST. KITTS. The splendor of St. Kitts is closer than you think. Now you can venture nonstop from Toronto with Air Canada, to discover a place so tranquil your laughter carries all the way down a golden-sand beach by a warm, tropical breeze. Home to historic sugar plantations, a majestic cloud-piercing volcano, and even a fortress of past civilizations. Visit today and nourish your soul with the spirit of St. Kitts.
For additional flight info visit luxestkitts.com
WEEKLY NONSTOP FLIGHTS Flight routes and duration are subject to change without notice.
CONTRIBUTORS L U X U R Y. L I V I N G . D E F I N E D Interior designers, style commentators, celebrity interviewers and lifestyle gurus COLIN MCALLISTER and JUSTIN RYAN split their time between Toronto, Haliburton and Glasgow. You may know them as hosts of Cabin Pressure (Cottage Life) judges on Game of Homes (W Network and Discovery Family) or experts on Cityline (City TV). Their eponymous decor line C+J Home is available at Homesense and Marshalls. Catch their latest program Great Canadian Cottages on Cottage Life this fall.
VOLUME 1, ISSUE 1. AUTUMN 2018
Editor-in-Chief
HOLLY CRAWFORD Art Director
CAROLINE BISHOP Contributing Writers LISA BUCHER, CHRIS CLAY, ANNE T. DONAHUE, DEBORAH FULSANG, WAHEEDA HARRIS, ANDREA KARR, JOSEPHINE MATYAS, COLIN MCALLISTER, MICHAEL PINKUS, JUSTIN RYAN, SHERRY SMITHER
Junior Designer FRANZISKA TRILSE
Contributing Photographers
ANNA LISA SANG is a freelance photographer with
LISA CRISPO, NICK IWANYSHYN, ANNA LISA SANG, NATASHA V.
a background in fashion. She studied photography at York University and has over a decade of experience in the editorial world. She has worked for a wide range of magazines including Toronto Life, Fashion, House & Home, and Canadian Business. She lives in Toronto with her husband and two young daughters.
Additional Contributors TARA ASHLEY, ANDREA CIABATONNI, KATARINA MARINIC, NICOLE FOR THE BEAUTY TEAM
O MEDIA GROUP President + Publisher WAHEEDA HARRIS has been a journalist since the beginning of the millennium, writing about stylish people, places and design-worthy things discovered near and far.
ORIANA MANTELLO Office Manager/Accounting PATRICIA BERARDI
Advertising Director affair with wine that goes back more than 20 years. He is a multi-award-winning journalist, past president of the Wine Writers’ Circle of Canada and a national and international wine judge. His articles have appeared in numerous national and international magazines.
Account Managers PAM LONDON, DONNA LOURENCO
Accountant ARNINI STELLATO, LLP
CONTACT US MAIL
LUXE Magazine, 242 Applewood Crescent, Suite 5, Concord, Ontario L4K 4E5 EMAIL ANNE T. DONAHUE is a writer and person from Cambridge, Ontario. Her first book, Nobody Cares, comes out on September 18 with ECW.
ANDREA KARR is a Toronto-based writer with a passion for style, travel and mental health. She has a master’s degree in Literatures of Modernity from Ryerson University and always has a book in hand.
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info@luxemagcanada.com PHONE
905.780.2639 LUXEMAGCANADA.COM LUXE Magazine is published quarterly and delivered to select homes in the GTA. For subscription inquiries email: info@luxemagcanada.com The reproduction of written material, illustration or photographs from this magazine is prohibited. Although precaution has be taken to ensure the information contained in LUXE Magazine is accurate, it is understood that the magazine cannot be held responsible for errors or omissions that may occur. The articles in this magazine are the exclusive responsibility of the authors.
McAllister and Ryan photo by Jeremy Kohm / Cottage Life. Sang photo by Emma McIntyre.
MICHAEL PINKUS has a love
ANTONIO DIPAOLO
Join us as we continue our story.
Italian born. Canadian made.
Over the last 40 years, the Ferri family has been dedicated to delivering the ultimate in sales, customer service, and employee satisfaction. While we write our next chapter, we hope you’ll join us as we continue our story as R. Ferri Automotive. For us, passion for automotive excellence is a family affair. More than that – it’s a way of life.
rferriautomotive.com
LOOK INSIDE THE NEW TORONTO MARRIOTT MARKHAM The place to live, work and play is now also the place to stay as Downtown Markham welcomes the Toronto Marriott Markham, York Region’s premier hotel. The all-new hotel reflects Marriott’s latest design concepts and stands tall with sophisticated rooms, dynamic amenities, world-class dining and state-of-the-art technology. And, as you’ve come to expect from this groundbreaking community, you’ll find art throughout,including exciting new pieces from the Remington Contemporary Art Collection. Toronto Marriott Markham, illuminating the heart of Downtown Markham.
THE GOODS
TREND
a colour story
RED PEAR
Nail Vernis in Dior en Diable, part of the fall 2018 collection, $28 at Dior counters, dior.com
I N S P I R E D B Y PA N TO N E ’ S FA S H I O N COLOUR TREND REPORT FOR AUTUMN 2018, “RED PEAR” HAS US SEEING SHADE S OF DEEP RED, PLUM AND AUBERGINE. Greta Constantine Fall/Winter 2018
LS Biggie wrap coat by Guess by Marciano, $248, guessbymarciano. guess.ca
LS Hugh Jumpsuit by Guess by Marciano, $138, guessbymarciano. guess.ca One-of-a-kind timepiece from The Dior Grand Soir Botanic collection, dior.com
Cap sleeve sheath dress with leather detail by Judith + Charles, judithandcharles.com
Boot, $820 and bag, $640, by Marc Cain, marc-cain.com Small Diorama bag in red, studded calfskin by Christian Dior, dior.com
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THE GOODS Beauty
DIORSHOW ON STAGE LINER Give eyes drama and definition with a stroke of Diorshow On Stage Liner. Inspired by the runway, Dior presents its first liner with a hybrid tip that combines the ease of a felt-pen with the suppleness of a brush. The fine tip allows for easier application, guiding the line to flawlessly recreate runway looks in a single stroke. Shown here in Matte Anthracite, $30.50, dior.com
autumn LIPS & EYES
CLARINS JOLI ROUGE VELVET Clarins reinterprets the iconic Joli Rouge lipstick with a new velvet texture. The new matte version hydrates lips and rises to the challenge of a velvet finish without drying. Beneath the matte finish hides an organic marsh samphire extract that hydrates for up to six hours. Plus, for even softer lips Joli Rouge Velvet is enriched with jojoba and apricot oil. Clarins Joli Rouge Velvet, shown here in 742 Matte, $29, clarins.com
CLARINS WATERPROOF GEL EYELINER A pleasant, creamy texture and intense black pigments set this gel eyeliner apart. Weightless colour sets with excellent dry time and is waterresistant and withstands humidity and perspiration for 12 hours of wear. Clarins Waterproof Gel Eyeliner Limited Edition, $30, clarins.com
YSL ROUGE PUR COUTURE THE SLIM Modern, daring – always three steps ahead –YSL Beauté knows the true power of matte. As the first lip range from YSL Beauté Global Beauty Director Tom Pecheux, Rouge Pur Couture The Slim dresses lips up in a couture leather matte finish that feels ultra comfortable and casual to wear. YSL Rouge Pur Couture The Slim, shown here in No 1 Rouge Extravagant, available September, $44, yslbeauty.ca
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LANCOME L’ABSOLU ROUGE DRAMA MATTE An ultra-matte lipstick created for those who like to play with colour and finish, this reinterpretation of the matte trend is designed to add new heights of comfort, colour intensity and elegance. Twenty-seven high impact shades including three metallic matte shades of copper, gold and chrome blue that can be used by themselves or as a topcoat. Lancome L’Absolu Rouge Drama Matte, available September, $40, lancome.ca
SHISEIDO KAJAL The relaunch of Shiseido Makeup is the latest innovative chapter in the brand’s history. A pioneer in the beauty industry since 1872, they are disrupting the beauty space with a cosmetics collection that is modern, minimalistic, visionary, expressive and creative. The new collection is classified into four textures: gels, inks, powders and dews. Shown here, Kajal InkArtist in Sumi Sky. shiseido.com
THE GOODS DĂŠcor
Boca by HVL combines metal and glass with one-of-a-kind bubbles, shown in aged brass, hudsonvalleylighting. hvlgroup.com
Mila by Canadian designer Matthew McCormick combines hand-blown glass and geometric metal, matthewmccormick.ca
LIGHT it up CIRCLES & SPHERES Machinist pendant by Jonathan Browning, crafted of solid metal and clear glass, RH.com
Abagail by Mitzi shown in aged brass, mitzi. hvlgroup.com
Ella by Mitzi shown in polished brass, mitzi.hvlgroup.com
Astoria by HVL features opal-etched glass diffusers, shown in aged brass, hudsonvalleylighting.hvlgroup.com Palo Alto pendant in brushed bronze by Artcraft, artcraftlighting.com
Carbon mini pendant by Elan, elan-lighting.com
Network from Troy Lighting combines glass and wood, troylighting.hvlgroup.com
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Beauty
for the heart of your home.
3345 LAIRD ROAD, UNIT 4, MISSISSAUGA 905.820.0222
HOME
N AT U R A L BEAUTY THIS SCENE-STEALER from Bernhardt takes is cue from nature. An abstract flow on each piece is achieved with Black Forest Marble, allowing the organic curves to take the lead. The marble mimics the grain and whorls of natural wood in striations of black, gray, and white patterns. Textured metal bands encircle the console, creating a beautiful tension between the metal and wood-look stone. “Nature is the obvious influence in these designs,” says Heather Eidenmiller, director of brand development. “In each case, unique applications and crafted materials showcase the artistry of the natural world.” Linea Entertainment Console by Bernhardt, bernhardt.com for retailers.
LUXE MAGAZINE • AUTUMN 2 018
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HOME News
PUMPKIN SPICE EVERYTHING New to the Nest line of home fragrances for autumn is a “liquidless diffuser.” Utilizing the same type of sticks you’re used to in an oil diffuser, each “Scentstick” is infused with pure fragrance oil. The custom-designed open vessel holds up to five sticks so you can adjust the level of fragrance to your preference. Each individual stick releases fragrance for up to 30 days. This is a first-of-its-kind innovation, offering favourite Nest home fragrances without the use of a flame or liquid. Just in time for autumn, Nest relaunches Pumpkin Chai, a spicy, cozy scent with a blend of pumpkin, masala chai, cardamom, ginger and cinnamon notes. Available at Saks Fifth Avenue and Nordstrom, $84.
TAKE A SEAT
We love the luxe lines of the new Mira chair from Ethan Allen. Sumptuous leather and a warm gold metal frame make for an elegant addition to any living space. ethanallen.ca
POTTERY BARN X SARAH BARTHOLOMEW CAPSULE COLLECTION
NEW MIELE EXPERIENCE CENTRE AT YO R K DA L E Miele opened a new Experience Centre at Yorkdale
Pottery Barn recently unveiled their
Shopping Centre recently. The new flagship is the
exclusive collaboration with Nashville-
brand’s first retail store in a premium shopping mall and
based interior designer, Sarah
boasts a completely new concept and design. “The new
Bartholomew. A self-taught designer,
Miele Experience Centre is truly a unique showcase
Bartholomew uses historical
demonstrating excellent quality, technology and service,”
references for her traditional spin on
says Yves Dalcourt, president of Miele Canada. “The
modern design, curating charming
experience we will give our customers will change the way
and harmonious interiors. Infusing the
people will look at buying appliances and will set a new
designer’s signature, contemporary
standard within our industry.” Visitors are welcome to test
yet classic point of view, Bartholomew
appliances and discover the user benefits they offer. From
offers both style and function with
laundry and floor care, to kitchen products through to smart
a chic capsule focused on entryway
home gadgets, all Miele product categories are represented;
organization and décor. The Sarah
but the heart and soul of the new store is the active kitchen
Bartholomew for Pottery Barn
with cooking and baking demonstrations several times a day.
Collection features more than 15
This new endeavour demonstrates the commitment
pieces including furniture, decorative
of Miele to the Canadian market, where demand for its
accessories, shelving, and storage
world-leading, premium appliances continues to grow.
pieces. potterybarn.com
The company has been represented in Canada since 1989, with headquarters in Vaughan, Ontario. miele.ca
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LOOK AT LONDON DIFFERENTLY WITH THE ATHENAEUM HOTEL & RESIDENCES NEW ROOMS, SUITES & TOWNHOUSE RESIDENCES
Embodying five-star luxury with an independent spirit, The Athenaeum’s five-star, family-run hotel is located in the heart of Mayfair, opposite the Royal Green Park.
www.athenaeumhotel.com
The newly launched rooms, suites and townhouse residences epitomise our proud heritage, champion bespoke British craftsmanship and celebrates our Art Deco roots.
116 Piccadilly, Mayfair, London,
info@athenaeumhotel.com
England, W1J 7BJ LUXE magazine ad.indd 1
18/07/2018 11:31:08
G R E AT CANADIAN ESCAPES 16
LUXE MAGAZINE • AUTUMN 2 018
HOME
BLACKBIRCH COTTAGE
MONUMENT CHANNEL COTTAGE
T
AS HOSTS OF THE BRAND NEW DOCU-SERIES G R E AT C A N A D I A N C O T TAG E S , DESIGNERS COLIN MCALLISTER A N D J U S T I N R YA N G I V E U S A PEEK INSIDE SOME OF THE COUNTRY’S MOST INDULGENT VA C A T I O N E S C A P E S .
Monument Channel photos by Paul Orenstein Photography. Blackbirch photos courtesy of STAMP Architecture. Portrait by Jeremy Kohm / Cottage Life
OURING some of Ontario’s most beautiful lakes and rich, verdant landscape, we’ve been fortunate to enjoy a temperate summer, visiting vacation escapes of all shapes and sizes. From monolithic architectural gems, to petite rustic abodes lovingly fashioned from straw bales, we’ve viewed ‘em all. And, whilst doing so, the ‘heart and head’ home buying algorithm was never clearer. Allow us to explain…
Aye, with city homes, decisions are made – for the most part, certainly – based on practicality: school catchment, distance to shops and commute being just a few of the factors that steer the buying process. However, when it comes to investing in a vacation home, decisions, more often than not, come from the heart. During a demanding – but fun – shooting schedule (we visited 24 cottages in total) we met innovation, personality and charm in each of the retreats through whose portals we walked. All featured abodes (and indeed their owners’ stories) are inspiring, and amply reference the Canadian tradition of optimising day-to-day lifestyle, whilst simultaneously laying down a template for future generations to enjoy.
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OKAY, SO WE ALL KNOW ABOUT MAKING A STYLE STATEMENT via a little black dress. But what about making an impact with a big, black lake home? Blackbirch, perched as it is on a tree covered granite outcropping in Haliburton, does precisely that. A wildly commanding affair with black steel cladding, stark rectilinear lines and expansive glass, it sets the tone for a lake home experience like no other. Owners Chris and Susan Meiorin designed their 2,400 square-foot Drag Lake retreat in association with Brad Netkin of Toronto’s Stamp Architecture, and their combined efforts have resulted in a remarkable home that serves as the perfect back drop for good times and great family gatherings. Drawing on Chris’s Italian and Susan’s Greek heritage, the Blackbirch welcome is as warm as the Mediterranean sunshine and a wonderful place, by all accounts, to build memories with daughters Rachel and Taylor and stylish hound Mia, a beautiful honey toned Vizsla. Enjoying elevated views of Haliburton, Blackbirch is the perfect space in which to commune with family and friends. “In the city,” enthuses Chris, “we always seem to be busy, always running, so we just eat when we can. But at the lake, it’s all about sharing. Food, for us, is a huge pleasure and all about new flavours and experimentation.” Susan adds,
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“And when we’re not gathered round a table, we’re out on the boat, weather permitting, or swimming in the lake. Seriously: coming here nurtures ultimate decompression for all of us. It truly is our happy place.” Arranged over two principal levels, Blackbirch is dramatically clad in corrugated steel and set under a raised seam metal roof. On the main floor, there’s a spacious kitchen, a comfortable living area, a dining area and an ancillary screened outdoor eating space. To one side, across a landscape of contemporary furniture – and past a striking drum-shaped vertical wood-burning stove – is a two-story high wall of gray barn board whose beautiful texture suffuses the overall aesthetic with a nod to the past, whilst simultaneously contrasting with the smooth blond timber panels that clad the ceiling. The barn board wall, whilst beautiful in its own right, serves to delineate the primary shared living zone from the sleeping quarters (and washrooms) which are arranged across the ground and top floor. Statement glazing features prominently (little surprise, being that Chris owns much respected fenestration manufacturer Euro Vinyl Windows) with tilt-action framework planted within every elevation to welcome in – or indeed baffle – lake breezes and keep the interior climate wonderfully cool.
Blackbirch photos courtesy of STAMP Architecture.
BLACKBIRCH
HOME Great Escapes
Extensive use of glass floods the house with light, creating a wonderful connection with the great outdoors.
A stairway to heaven – the open tread staircase keeps sightlines clear making the room feel even more spacious.
Ah yes, ‘cool’: from climatically to stylistically and everything in between. From the large-scale Scrabble set that adorns the dining table, to a statement turntable that sits atop the entertainment station, designer aplomb permeates everything. As we see it, Chris and Susan ensnare a new type of luxury: one that’s less about gold taps and marble pillars, and more about the subtle art of restraint, quality materials and the search for environmental harmony. Aye, as far as cottages go, Blackbirch is a joy. LUXE MAGAZINE • AUTUMN 2 018
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The long lean lines of the kitchen island perfectly echo the proportions of the main room, creating an infinity feel that appears to be endless.
WHEN IT COMES TO AMBITION, some people take slow, tentative steps towards greatness, whilst certain players march swiftly towards victory, with apparently unstinting ability to make good decisions. One such visionary, who amply occupies the latter category, is Toronto-based architect Charles Gane who, along with his wife Robin, purchased a water-access only property, several years past, on Ontario’s Georgian Bay. Charles and Robin, together with their children, spent a first summer dodging rattlesnakes, cooking al fresco and sleeping under canvas, during which time they developed a feel for the softly undulating granite, the changing light and the remarkable typography as it transitions from season to season. This unique treasure trove of inspiration clearly inflected heavily upon Charles’ vision and assisted in the journey from drawing board to the 2,125 square-foot respite his family now call (home away from) home. But of course the build was anything but easy. Given the remote nature of the cottage, all materials, Charles explains, had to be barged in. “When you’re working on the mainland and suddenly need an ancillary component, it’s easy to grab what you need. But when you’re water access, the rules are different: you can’t simply dash to a supplier on a whim.”
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The predominant building material is a lumber genus that features heavily throughout. From the exposed post and beam structure, to wall finishes, interior cabinetry and the impressive kitchen island, it’s all Douglas Fir. Exterior cladding is either structural wood or cedar shingles, with hardwearing Brazilian Ipe used for decking and for the guardrail that appears to float atop the perimeter glass railings. Aye, it truly is a remarkable home, a breath-taking mix of timber, stone and glass which somehow, for all its modernity, quietly recedes into the Georgian Bay typography. Entering, there’s an immediate sense of scale courtesy of an openshelved kitchen which groans with objet trouvee, crockery and glasswares. The extra-wide kitchen island yields first to the dining area and then towards a cosy living area centred around a stone-fronted hearth. In our experience, large open-concept spaces can feel unfocussed, even sterile, but Charles avoided any such worry by suffusing his cottage with an overall sense of comfort via indulgent wood finishes, textural layers and a series of nooks. “These relaxation ‘pockets’ are,” he explains, “the perfect place in which to enjoy music or simply tuck away with a good book. With several around the cottage, you can move with the sun or moon and totally relax.”
Monument Channel photos by Paul Orenstein Photography.
MONUMENT CHANNEL COTTAGE
HOME Great Escapes
Sitting between a rock and a hard place – this wonderful cottage straddles the natural topography like a man made bridge.
Choosing to build onto the land – rather than blasting rock to accommodate – creates ‘engagement’ between terrain and house: the ground floor’s two principal compartments (living area, as previously described, and master bedroom suite which lies to the rear) effectively straddle two rocks which are intersected, thereafter, by a ‘bridge’ that creates a sheltered tunnel with sightlines in two directions to the great outdoors. And it’s that connection to the great outdoors that’s so remarkable, as viewed through enormous windows – throughout the entire building – which provide welcome cooling breezes and a sublime sense of scale. It’s fair to say that cottaging has carved a special niche in our hearts – we’ve renovated many of our own – and are delighted to share our enthusiasm with other cottagers and hear everyone’s stories of how these great buildings came into being. If you’re looking for utter escapism, superlative design and a wealth of stunning landscape, then don’t be shy: pull up a chair, pour a glass of wine and join us when our new show broadcasts, this fall, on Cottage Life. Great Canadian Cottages airs beginning October 18 on the Cottage Life channel. For details, visit cottagelife.com LUXE MAGAZINE • AUTUMN 2 018
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HOME
YORKVILLE P I E D - A -T E R R E by W A H E E D A H A R R I S photography courtesy of JULIE CHARBONNEAU DESIGN
C
HOOSING A PIED-A-TERRE at the Four Seasons Hotel and Residences in Yorkville was an easy decision for a couple wanting a different kind of summer residence. The spacious two-bedroom includes three balconies and a sweeping view of the ever-changing skyline of downtown Toronto. Envisioning a glamorous yet simple design for their lightfilled space, the couple chose Julie Charbonneau Design (JCD) to make their ideas a reality. Julie Charbonneau’s first reaction to the space was visceral “...it’s like you’re on top of the world.” Charbonneau and design partner Janinna Caverly had previously worked with the client and met this past winter to discuss plans. “We had to complete the home fast. After our meeting in February, the deadline was set for July since our client wanted to spend summer in the city,” explains Caverly. Not involved during the construction phase of the 5,000 square-foot condominium, the design duo faced a few challenges, including being unable to make any major alterations to architecture, plumbing, ceilings or floors. The designers focused on filling the space with textures and styles to enhance the endless supply of natural light, with Charbonneau and Caverly choosing a modern décor palette of white, gray and metallics punctuated with exotic dark wood. With the first step into the foyer, the glamour is evident from top to bottom, starting with the ceiling: painstakingly hand-coated in a layer of European silver and illuminated with a bronze and hand-blown glass Bijout chandelier made in Portugal by Serip. It’s just the first of many notable lighting choices for this home. Elevator doors are covered in Macassar ebony wood; a pair of Christian Liaigre console tables, Porta Romana sconces and custom-designed white gold leaf mirrors symmetrically balance the entry. A marble floored hallway connects the main living space to all the other rooms of the expansive apartment. The main living room came with a design challenge: an
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immense roll-down television screen, that when exposed hides the fireplace. Caverly and Charbonneau knew they had to create a multi-use area that would to be a relaxing spot for the couple, a place to entertain guests and be able to transform into a media room when needed. Dividing the space into living room and lounge, Caverly and Charbonneau custom-designed the neutral-toned floor to ceiling drapes, couches and curvy club chairs for the living room, using the client’s favourite shade of purple for the accent pillows. A vintage shagreen coffee table, a custom-designed carpet from Weavers Art, matching floor lamps from Donghia and a stylishly simple Gregorius Pineo console is illuminated by a “Micro” table lamp from England’s Porta Romana, a beloved source for the designers. The lounge space features a cozy cluster of three made-toorder Christian Liaigre Macassar-edged chairs, surrounding a low circular table previously owned by the couple. They are paired with gold Boca Do Lobo side tables, part of the Portuguese décor company’s popular Eden series and a whimsical contemporary art piece. In the living room, the gas fireplace features an onyx marble surround, and has a secret: it’s double-sided. Narrow doors on either side of the fireplace lead to a panelled private study that features a walkout to one of the three balconies of the suite. The study’s furniture was custom designed by JCD, desk lamp by Porta Romana while the desk chair and guest chair are from Bright Chair Company, which has been crafting furniture from its New York State artisanal workshop for more than 80 years. The nearby powder room was completely reinvented by the designers into a bijou space: stone floors, a floating toilet, Statuario marble walls, a custom vanity made from Mystic White marble with a farmhouse-style sink punctuated with Italian Fantini faucets, a pair of Marlin bathroom lights and a white gold Blossom chandelier, both sourced from Porta Romana. Although the kitchen wasn’t included as part of the new design plan, Caverly and Charbonneau put their own spin on the breakfast nook, adding a 1970s post-modern Nero Marquina black marble oval dining table found at 1st Dibs, paired it with a custom-designed bench and lit by an aged brass and Lucite Aberdeen chandelier from Mr. Brown London. “I always think of dining rooms as being evening spaces,” says Caverly. A corner room with a balcony, the formal dining room is a showstopper: an eye-catching Seed Cloud chandelier from OCHRE, a British lighting firm dominates this room. The fixture’s brass pieces are made of polished bronze, each one surrounding a glass drop with an embedded LED light. The duo embellished the dining room with many sumptuous textures: walls are covered in silver silk wallpaper from Donghia’s Silk Walls Collection, a 12-seat dining table and chairs is another custom creation by JCD and made from African Wenge wood, flanked by a banquette where diners can
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HOME
THE GA S FIRE P LAC E F E AT U RE S A N O N YX MARB LE S U RROU N D, AND HA S A S E C R ET: IT ’S DOU B L E-S I D E D.
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I A LWAYS S U GGEST U P G RA DING T H EI R B ED L I N EN S . T HE RE H AS N ’ T BEEN A CL I EN T W HO DID N ’ T AP P R EC I AT E T HE TACT I L E I N D ULGEN C E O F L EGN A L I N EN S .
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HOME
indulge in the unparalleled view of downtown Toronto. Custom silk drapery has an oversized velvet border while a silk carpet from Toronto’s Elte anchors the room. A glossy black side table is from New York City’s Hudson Furniture, featuring trademark table legs that resemble tree branches, a pair of Cologne lamps from Porta Romana and an oversized colourful painting by Kazuo Shiraga, one of the noted pieces in the owners’ modern art collection. The private spaces follow the same rich neutral palette and textures as the public spaces and the owners also agreed to the number one tip from the designers for a bedroom. “I always suggest upgrading their bed linens,” says Charbonneau, “There hasn’t been a client who didn’t appreciate the tactile indulgence of Legna Linens.” Woven in Italy from 100 per cent wood fibres, the linens’ fabric is harvested from environmentally-managed forests and has a sumptuous feel similar to silk and cotton sheets. Inspired by classic boutique hotel design, the monochromatic master bedroom showcases an upholstered king platform bed, night tables and streamlined chair all custom-designed by Julie Charbonneau Design, a gray custom Weavers Art rug to anchor the space, a pair of geometric Porta Romana Stages table lamps and gray suede Altfield wallcovering behind the bed. The third room with outdoor access, the master bedroom also features a very glam and impressive focal point sourced from 1st Dibs: a vintage Murano smoked glass chandelier. A JCD custom-designed four-drawer hand-carved dresser offers a distinctive place to store wardrobe essentials. Including his and hers walk-in closets and bathrooms, it’s her bathroom that will make friends envious. The restful spa-like space has a spacious shower, oversized bathtub, built-in six-foot vanity with expansive mirror, a pair of Porta Romana sconces and a generous amount of natural light from the floor to ceiling windows. Facing west, the late day light makes this all-white space glow. The feminine guest bedroom is the one room that deviates from the home’s neutral tones with a blue-patterned chair (a sentimental favourite piece of the owners), a custom-created bed dressed in gray and white linens including a whimsical polka dot duvet cover, an Elte silk rug, a wood-framed silk headboard that encompasses the entire wall, a Dandelion chandelier from Porta Romana and custom night tables. The guest room also includes a gold-adorned upholstered Lee Broom stool at the vanity, beneath a contemporary print from Toronto’s Bau-Xi Gallery. On the vanity, the designers included a shagreen jewelry box selected from the Aerin collection by Aerin Lauder, a favourite of both designers for her timeless style. Sourcing from artisanal and modern companies from Europe and North America, this design twosome created a glamorous city escape for a couple to enjoy a quiet retreat in the midst of the bustling neighbourhood of Yorkville.
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LIVING ROYAL ONTARIO MUSEU M OPENS ALL NIG H T FOR
NUIT BLANCHE
THE ROYAL ONTARIO MUSEUM (ROM) will open its doors during Nuit Blanche Toronto, the city-wide, annual overnight celebration of contemporary art. The ROM is pleased to present Modernism on the Ganges: Raghubir Singh Photographs and #MeToo & the Arts, complemented by the premiere live-performances of The House that Whiteness Built, by artist Divya Mehra and writer Amy Fung. Nuit Blanche Toronto at the ROM begins at 7pm on Saturday, September 29. Last entry into the Museum will be 6am on Sunday, September 30. There are two performances of The House that Whiteness Built, at 9pm and at midnight. These performances are intended for an adult audience only and may contain mature content. Space for each performance is limited. The curatorial theme for Nuit Blanche 2018 is “You Are Here,” which is meant to place artists and audiences at the centre of ongoing debates around the city’s evolving social fabric, as well as the influence of historic and contemporary immigrant communities. nbto.com
LUXE MAGAZINE • AUTUMN 2 018
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LIVING News
THE BEST SMARTPHONE YO U D O N ’ T OW N
NORDIK GROUP PLANS S PA F O R W H I T B Y
The Huawei P20 Pro has been named “EISA Best Smartphone 2018-2019” by the
The Nordik Group recently began construction on its third
European Image and Sound Association
Nordic-style nature spa in Whitby, within Cullen Central Park,
(EISA), a group comprising 55 of the world’s
with official opening of the spa is scheduled for Fall 2019.
most respected consumer electronics
This new relaxation destination will be built on a 385,423
magazines. With a long track record of
square-foot site in the heart of Whitby, only 45 km away from
introducing stylish, powerful and award-
downtown Toronto, and will be able to accommodate up to
winning devices, this is the sixth consecutive
1,100 people per day. It promises its guests an avant-garde,
year that Huawei has been recognized by
innovative, and multi-sensory rejuvenation experience. During
the EISA. This comes at an exciting time, as
all four seasons, guests will be able to experience the thermal
Huawei Canada announced that its P20 Pro
cycle thanks to a variety of dry saunas, steam saunas, outdoor
is the official smartphone of the Toronto
baths (hot, cold, and thermal), waterfalls, cascades, and
International Film Festival® (TIFF). This is
many interior and exterior resting points on site. An array of
Huawei Canada’s second consecutive year
wellness massages, body care, treatments and rituals will also
as a sponsor of TIFF. The award-winning
be offered to create the ultimate relaxation experience. The
P20 Pro will be used to capture the action
highlight will be the floating salt-water pool that will attract
on the TIFF red carpets and Portrait
wellness enthusiasts who wish to enjoy the extraordinary
Studio, which speaks to the quality of its
experience of weightlessness. The spa will also feature three
Leica Triple Camera – the world’s first.
dining areas and two distinct sections, making the relaxation
The revolutionary Leica Triple Camera
experience possible in silence or in a social setting. A sauna
on Huawei P20 Pro boasts the highest
event space able to accommodate up to 120 people will sit at
total pixel count among all smartphone
the heart of the site. whitby.lenordik.com
cameras on the market today, supporting 3x optical zoom and 5x hybrid zoom. Thanks
BODY CONTOURING TREND
to the world’s first AI-powered chipset, the phone delivers a fast and smooth user experience including Huawei AIS (AI image stabilization) and a superior superb
While exercise and a healthy lifestyle can help one achieve their ideal body goals, there are
low-light photography experience, making it
some pesky areas of concern that need an extra bit of TLC. Body contouring works to tighten
one of the few devices capable of shooting
loose skin and smooth cellulite, helping one’s figure look sleeker and defined. This can be
long-exposure photos clearly without a
achieved in the comfort of one’s home with the help of the Silhouette Body Contouring and
tripod. EISA selected the Huawei P20 Pro
Cellulite Reduction Device, by Silk’n. Sandra Cockburn, Vice President, Marketing for Silk’n,
as the best smartphone of the year for
says, “The Silhouette device has the same technologies used in a physician’s office, LED light
being “the most advanced, innovative and
therapy, radio frequency and IR heat, to improve skin’s texture and reduce the appearance of
technically superior smartphone ever,” as
cellulite. One treatment takes 10 to 20 minutes and can be done wherever you desire – home,
well as “the perfect companion for mobile
office, or while travelling.” Treatment protocol suggests using the product twice a week for the
users, [and] also a trendsetter in the mobile
first 10 weeks, and after that initial period once every two weeks. $289, silkn.ca
photography field.” huaweicanada.ca
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LUXE MAGAZINE • AUTUMN 2 018
Specializing in Commercial, Industrial, Retail Sales and Leasing.
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CANNABIS
A BIG STORY OF A LITTLE GREEN LEAF by L I S A B U C H E R
BECAME LEGAL to cultivate industrial hemp for
in the Marihuana for Medical Purposes Regulations in 2013,
commercial use in Canada 20 years ago. It was the
replacing an earlier law that regulated access for medical use
first whisper of the plant nicknamed pot becoming
since 2001.
part of mainstream consumerism. Packed with healthy fats, fibre and protein, hemp became a
As of October 17, 2018, cannabis will be legal for recreational use as well.
hot commodity. Considered a superfood, with its high nutritional content, hemp products earned a spot on grocer’s shelves.
CLEARING THE SMOKE OF HISTORY
But, while hemp is processed using the cannabis plant, it origi-
Cannabis was criminalized in Canada in 1923, 15 years after the
nates from a different species than marijuana.
government enacted the Opium Act of 1908, the first Canadian
Medical use of marijuana in Canada is also legal, as set out
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LUXE MAGAZINE • AUTUMN 2 018
law to prohibit drugs. Without debate or indication that it was
LIFESTYLE
even used in Canada, marijuana was added to the list of prohi-
90s with really high tobacco prices, it is pushed into an illegal
bited drugs, according to Patricia Erickson, media expert on
market,” says Malleck.
cultural and legal normalization of marijuana. It was lumped in
Recreational marijuana legalization was postponed to allow
with opiates and cocaine and remained there with equal penal-
municipalities and provincial governments to get up to speed
ties. It’s argued that The Black Candle, a book penned by Judge
concerning their legislation as well as production, marketing, and
Emily Murphy, played a role in cannabis being added.
distribution of the product. Under the previous Liberal government, an agency of the LCBO was going to have a monopoly on
POT IN POLITE SOCIETY
selling the product. The newly elected Conservative government
Erickson says, “When you remove the criminal sanctions, but
of Ontario, let by Premier Doug Ford, has changed that.
you leave regulatory controls that are quite stringent, that is
On a municipal level, human rights lawyer Shelley Brown
an indicator of normalization.” Normalization doesn’t require
says, “Currently, in Toronto, you can’t smoke in public areas or
everyone to accept, promote or engage in marijuana use. “As
enclosed areas. You have to be 15 metres from the building or
long as there are controls, society will live with it and allow people to make risky choices and bad choices,” says Erickson. “It means that society isn’t going to punish people
directly
for
cannabis,
unless there is something that goes along with it, such as giving it to children.” However, just like we’ve seen with the growing stigma attached to tobacco use, cannabis could be de-normalized again. “Legalization will enable more communication about real findings. There will be
“As long as there are controls, society will live with it and allow people to make risky choices and bad choices.”
more research into potential risks.
the public gathering place to smoke tobacco.” He guesses that municipal bylaws for marijuana will mimic those currently existing for tobacco. Malleck adds, “In Ontario, the original plan was not to allow smoking
cannabis
in
public,
probably because policy makers didn’t know how to deal with cannabis.” The drug is considered an intoxicant in a broad sense, like alcohol, but consumed like tobacco. “It doesn’t fit the alcohol model because of the smoking. If I am sitting beside someone who is smoking cannabis or tobacco it is
We are going to have a lot more evidence-based information
going to annoy me because it is drifting into my face,” says
going out from viable sources,” says Erickson. We have seen
Malleck. As a result, Ontario has imposed the most stringent
de-normalization happen with tobacco. Now it is accepted that
rules of both models onto the recreational use of cannabis.
you have to be cautious about it or not use it at all.
“You cannot use consumer cannabis anywhere but your home. However, the problem being … under the tobacco law and
GOVERNMENT CONTROL
people’s concern about children’s exposure to smoke, people
Daniel Malleck, a researcher on drug and alcohol policy says,
won’t even be able to smoke it at home.”
during the election, when Prime Minister Trudeau was talking
“People who have prescriptions to use medical marijuana are
about legalization, a lot of the conversation was in parallel
entitled to use it in the workplace and public areas that may
with the legalization of alcohol. There was “panic, concern
not be allowed for tobacco,” says Brown. “In the workplace,
and social arguments about this substance being destructive to
where there is no medicinal component the employer can use
the nation.” Cannabis legalization saw similar arguments, “but
the same standards and impose the same limitations as exists
instead of focusing on the moral outrage people would focus on
currently for alcohol and for tobacco.” However, if an employee
health, and health was almost a proxy for morality. You saw the
has a dependency on marijuana, their use can become a disabi-
use of health arguments around cannabis, but they were really
lity under the human rights codes and legislation across Canada.
weak. People would take any snippet of evidence and say, ‘look this is going to destroy the country’ and usually that would be
MARKETING MARY-JANE
the dangers to youth.”
Jenn Larry, president of CBD Strategy Group says, “What has
The goal of cannabis legalization is to allow people to
happened over the last 20 years lobbying against tobacco
consume it legally and to redirect their attention and money
smoke, it certainly was no shock that they had to take a dual
from the black market. “So, it couldn’t fit the smoking model
approach to cannabis. Smoking cannabis is one of the reasons
because it wouldn’t fit the goal of taking it out of the black
why the laws have come down in such a stringent way. It has
market. The more you restrict something, as we saw in the
limited marketing and advertising as we traditionally know it
LUXE MAGAZINE • AUTUMN 2 018
33
“There is a lot of information and expertise out there, but there are no scientific, reliable sources. It’s anecdotal information gathered over the last 100 years of illegality. It is not scientifically rigorous. A lot of it is just plain wrong.”
nants. Every seed and gram must be traceable so that the supply chain can be monitored by the regulator. There are testing requirements to ensure product quality like checking for pesticides. “Right now in the black market, you don’t know where that plant has been grown; there is a tremendous amount of issues with things like mold, mildew, fungus. Therefore the consumption has potential health risks,” says, Al Unwin, associate dean of horticultural and environmental studies at Niagara College. Cannabis facilities are comparable to those of the pharma industry regarding managing areas and sterility and the processes for biocontrol. Up Cannabis CEO and director, Jay Wilgar, says Canadian cannabis is currently of the highest standards of the world, and that is driven by Health Canada. People who enter Up Cannabis facilities are covered head to toe and facilities have reverse air handling systems. There are stringent regulations for handling plants to provide the best product. Several cannabis producers are making use of greenhouses in the Niagara area. “The infrastructure is there,” says Unwin, “and this is a crop that can be grown indoors.” UP Cannabis’ larger Niagara production site capable of producing 35,000 kg per year, used to operate as an orchid greenhouse. “From our point of view there was a lot of value in that facility and skilled labour in that area,” says Wilgar. It was one of Niagara’s most high-tech greenhouses with an automated Dutch tray system. Currently, the company is adding another 250,000 square-feet of production and growing space, an expansion that will cost $35 million. Up Cannabis had to make modifications to security in compliance with
… This is a huge opportunity for brands to rethink marketing.”
Health Canada. The site has 220 cameras that report in high
“The idea of making cannabis appealing sits on the fence,”
definition and fencing to surround the building. The finished
says Larry. Brands such as Up Cannabis have partnered with
product is stored in a vault that can hold up to $110 million
bands including The Tragically Hip, while Canopy Growth has
of cannabis.
worked with Snoop Dog and distributed his line of products.
Jordan Sinclair, VP of communications for Canopy Growth
Creating a brand and a campaign and luring the consumer
says, in the grow rooms a repeatable environment needs to be
in from a lifestyle perspective doesn’t work in Canada. Promo-
created. As a result there is a lot of tech to regulate temperature
ting its use is illegal. “We have to be clean with our package
and air flow, but also high tech lighting, HVAC systems, and
design. We have a considerable amount of space dedicated to
data collection to make sure that desirable climates are repeated.
health warnings, a universal symbol of THC, which mirrors the tobacco industry,” says Larry.
The University of Guelph has the first masters graduate in a cannabis program in North America, and published the first
Larry would like to believe that, “Things will change as
two North American scientific articles. “It has been illegal, so
cannabis moves beyond dried flower and oil and becomes a
it has been very difficult to do appropriate research; but we are
game changer. We are talking about 400 ingredients in a plant
looking at the controlled environment and LED light recipes,
that will eventually find itself all over the consumer-packaged
the growing substrates and the irrigation management issues
goods landscape. I don’t see those packages being limited in the
that our grad students have been tackling for the last three
same way as current smoke-able goods.”
years,” says Mike Dixon, director of controlled environment systems research facility, University of Guelph.
BYE-BYE BLACK MARKET
34
Dixon says, “There is a lot of information and expertise out
Part of the federal government’s strategy in eliminating the
there, but there are no scientific, reliable sources.” It’s anecdotal
black market is product traceability and ensuring that cannabis
information gathered over the last 100 years of illegality. “It is
is grown in a safe environment free and clear of any contami-
not scientifically rigorous. A lot of it is just plain wrong.”
LUXE MAGAZINE • AUTUMN 2 018
LIFESTYLE
Guelph also has the world’s largest research facility for
Niagara College is offering the first ministry-approved post-
“controlled environments” devoted to the space program and
graduate certificate in commercial cannabis production. It’s a
life support. Dixon says the technologies are so similar, the tech
$10,000, one-year, two-semester graduate certificate, with 10
transfer from the space program to the cannabis program is
courses, five per semester. “We are seeing a need for highly
working so far.
skilled, well-trained individuals as the industry expands,”
Dixon says with vertical farming, urban agriculture and
says Unwin.
Ontario being the greenhouse centre of Canada, controlled envi-
When Canopy Growth set up shop, Smith Falls was the
ronment agriculture is an area to get into. It provides opportu-
only place that would have the company. “We had to
nities for highly technical, quality employment. Especially the
convince a town to give its flagship building to people who
way it is done now. “It’s not gumboots and a garden hose; it is
grow cannabis. The game plan had to be thorough to convince
a new generation of agricultural entrepreneurship and cannabis
the mayor and city council that this was a good idea and a
is among the leading margins in that particular crop,” he adds.
good risk,” says Sinclair.
CA N N A B I S AC R O S S CA N A DA H O W D O E S O N TA R I O S TAC K U P ?
ONTAR IO AGE: 19 SALES: Government operated online retail, private retail by April 1, 2019. USEAGE: Only allowed in a private residence, maximum amount for each adult to possess is 30 grams.
M A N I TO BA AGE: 19 (18 for alcohol) SALES: Liquor and Gaming Authority of Manitoba regulates sales. USEAGE: Smoking banned in most public places and vehicles. Proposed ban on growing plants in households.
BR IT ISH COLUM BIA AGE: 19 SALES: Public and private retail stores, retail licenses require local government support. USEAGE: Smoking allowed in public places where tobacco and vaping are permitted. Banned in vehicles and places frequented by children. Adults may grow four plants per household.
Q U EB EC AGE: 18 SALES: Province’s liquor control board to control retail and online sales. USEAGE: Illegal to cultivate for personal use. Possession limited to 150 grams at home, 30 grams on your person. Zero tolerance for driving under the influence.
AL BE RTA AGE: 18 SALES: Private retail stores.Province plans to control online sales. USEAGE: Smoking banned in some public places. Adults can carry 30 grams, four plants per household. SASK ATCHEWA N AGE: 19 SALES: Private retail stores USEAGE: Smoking banned in public places.
N EW B RU N SW I C K AGE: 19 SALES: Province’s liquor control board to control sales. USEAGE: Plans to require users to lock away marijuana stored at home. P R I N C E EDWA R D I SLA N D AGE: 19 SALES: Province’s liquor control board to operate stand-alone retail stores. USEAGE: Plans to restrict use to private residences.
N OVA SCOT I A AGE: 19 SALES: Province’s liquor control board to control sales alongside alcohol in stores and online. USEAGE: Personal possession limit 30 grams. Cultivation of four plants per household. Plans to establish penalties for youth possession up to five grams. N EW FO U N D L A N D AGE: 19 SALES: Private retail stores USEAGE: Consumption restricted to private residences. Y U KO N AGE: 19 SALES: NWT Liquor Commission to control sales at existing liquor stores. Online orders for communities without a liquor store. USEAGE: Public possession of 30 grams. Smoking permitted in public where cigarettes are allowed. Cultivation of four plants per household. N U N AV U T Public survey in place to develop policy and legislation.
LUXE MAGAZINE • AUTUMN 2 018
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amandalinas.com
905.265.8707
STYLE CUTTING-EDGE COUTURE SKINCARE Among the peaks of the Moroccan Atlas Mountains, where Yves Saint Laurent rediscovered his innate creative spirit hides a precious spice, even more rare than gold: the pistil of the Saffron flower. For 2018, the YSL Beauté Research team announce a groundbreaking discovery for the newly reformulated and updated Or Rouge range. By identifying a unique compound found within Moroccan Saffron and combining it with a new, high-precision distillation process, YSL has created an Or Rouge Saffron distillate, more potent, more effective and more sustainable than ever before. Beyond correcting, now preventing; the world’s most cutting-edge couture skincare just got even better. YSL Or Rouge Créme, $450, available in October. yslbeauty.ca
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STYLE News
A S TAT E M E N T P I E C E A standout piece from the Retrouvai F/W 2018 collection, the Grandfather Compass Pendant in Black Onyx features a black onyx inlay with emerald baguettes and 0.50 ct white diamonds set in 14k yellow gold. Retrouvai’s pieces are defined by whimsical themes and the idea of the contents of a woman’s jewellery box being passed down through generations. The line is designed by Kirsty Stone, now Los Angeles-based, but born and raised in Toronto. She is inspired by one grandmother who worked for a costume house and the Hudson’s Bay Company, and the other who collected semi-precious gems. The treasured heirlooms she inherited from these two women inspire her modern jewellery collection. retrouvai.com
SALUTE TO SEAMASTER O N I T S 7 0 TH S H O P C U R AT E D CANADIAN FA S H I O N S AT I N L A N D Visit the upcoming Fall INLAND pop-up event for a curated collection of Canadian designer fashion and accessories all in one
Launched in 1948, the Seamaster line was Omega’s first family of watches. The beautifully designed timepieces would go on to become universally recognized and respected. In 2018, the 70th anniversary of the Seamaster, Omega pays tribute to these exceptional timepieces by releasing two limited edition models in the spirit of the 1948 classics. Each model is limited to 1,948 pieces. Omega Men’s Seamaster 1948 Limited Edition, $8,350 (blue) and $7,750 (brown). Available at Berani Jewellery, Bayview Village and European Jewellery, Yorkdale. omegawatches.com
place. INLAND is the leading popup destination to shop emerging and contemporary Canadian fashion, bringing together a unique mix of apparel and accessory brands for two days each spring and fall. It’s a unique opportunity to meet and shop directly from independent designers and makers. Learn about their process, get the first look at new or upcoming collections and be part of a movement that values people and the planet
Marimekko to pop-up at Simons this season Canadian retailer Simons is partnering with Marimekko, the celebrated Finnish design house, to bring pop-ups to three of the store’s retail locations, including Square One Shopping Centre. simons.ca
and style with equal measure. Since launching in 2014, INLAND has showcased more than 400 Canadian labels from Vancouver to Halifax. INLAND states that 100 per cent of all collections presented at their events are ethically made or manufactured in Canada.
September 21 and 22; QRC West, 134 Peter Street, Toronto; madeincanada.ca
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LUXE MAGAZINE • AUTUMN 2 018
New launch from Swiss anti-aging expert In its insatiable quest for innovation, Swiss anti-aging expert Valmont created AWF5, a dual-line solution to fight the most visible signs of aging. The acronym stands for the brand’s new AntiWrinkle and Firmness concept: a product range offering effectiveness to the fifth power thanks to an exclusive complex of five active ingredients targeting five components of the skin. Two complementary collections boast two targeted actions. The V-Line Lifting line targets wrinkles while smoothing and rejuvenating the face; the V-Shape Filling line helps restore loss of density and volume for firmer and more toned looking skin. Both lines include a serum, face cream and eye treatment. valmontcosmetics.com
Committed to creating an extraordinary experience with our
magic
of artistic floral design.
HENNA FLORIST.CA Shops On Yonge #23, 7181 Yonge Street, Markham 647.869.6090 HENNAFLORIST.CA
timeless rose Part vintage perfumery, part modern-day cologne: Today’s rosy scents take the iconic garden bloom and give it a twist. The target: bohemian-minded romantics with a love of old and new. Aerin Garden Rose Eau de Cologne, $170, aerin.com
T O D AY ’ S N E W S P R I T Z E S TA P P E R F U M E R Y ’ S PA S T T O R E I M A G I N E T H E N E W by D E B O R A H F U L S A N G , t h e w h a l e a n d t h e r o s e . c o m photography by N A T A S H A V. + art direction by C A R O L I N E B I S H O P
21st century chypre This latest new chypre fragrances have their roots in a rich and resinous perfume past, but layer in juicy fruit and edible spice notes to appeal to today’s fragrance lovers. Elie Saab Le Parfum in White, $142 (90 mL), eliesaab.com
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LUXE MAGAZINE • AUTUMN 2 018
STYLE a new classic Refined. Floral. Green. Crisp. On the skin, this verdant essence evolves to something warmer with a hint of earth, resin and ocean. It’s modern, cool, and gender-defying to suit the 21st century. Eau de Givenchy Eau de Toilette, $93 (100 ml), at thebay.com
new nude (left) Sheer perfumes have evolved from
yesterday’s fruity-floral blockbusters. The result, more nuanced fragrances with florals, fruits and warmth that are both feminine and modern. Kenzo World Eau de Toilette, $91 (50 mL), kenzoparfums.com
the modern male (top right) New masculine spritzes come
inspired by the mystery and magnetism of moody indigo blue, mineral blue, ozonic blue and the deep dark intensity of the deep blue sea. Narciso Rodriguez for Him Bleu Noir Eau de Parfum, $108 (100 mL), narcisorodriguez.com
for ward floral (bottom right) Next-gen florals take the fragrance world’s go-to blossoms — rose, peony, jasmine — and lace their aromatics with warm and sultry undercurrents of wood and musk. Salvatore Ferragamo Amo Eau de Parfum, $105 (50 mL), ferragamo.com
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Crafting A LABEL Thanks to her business acumen and unshakeable vision, Bojana Sentaler continues to draw international attention to the Canadian fashion market with her timeless brand of luxe, ladylike outerwear. by A N D R E A K A R R
TO KNOW SENTALER is to know old-world glamour, impeccable craftsmanship and feminine elegance. The label’s range of alpaca coats, jackets, capes and accessories look like treasures you’d find in your grandmother’s boudoir and steal for yourself: equally at home on a 1940s fashion icon and, say, a certain actress at a Christmas Day church service with her royal family-to-be (cut to Meghan Markle wearing Sentaler’s wide-collar wrap coat). They are classic staples that any woman from 16 to 90 could own. And, according to founder and designer Bojana Sentaler, they do. Though the label seems suited to a storied history of dressing starlets and royalty alike, the brand is actually quite new, having only launched in 2009. But, like all good things, it took decades to fully develop. The roots of Sentaler go back to Bojana’s childhood in Belgrade, Serbia, where she first realized her love for fashion and sketching her own designs. It’s also where she began refining her aesthetic. “Growing up in Eastern Europe, my mother embedded in me that quality is better than quantity,” she says. “We had an appreciation for high fashion and knew to buy one good thing, rather than many things.” And in true European spirit, she also preferred clean, form-fitting designs. “If you look back to what I liked then, it
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hasn’t changed much,” she says. “I’ve always believed less is more – the perfect cut, the perfect quality, the perfect silhouette.” Despite her affinity for fashion, Bojana decided to go to business school in Canada, where she moved with her family at age eight. “I’m very mathematically calculated,” she says. “It was the safer route, and I figured that finishing a degree would open up the doors to anything I wanted.” So she studied marketing and finance at the Schulich School of Business in Toronto, worked for a large global beauty corporation, then moved to Dubai in 2008 where she worked on media projects. It was an interview with Karl Lagerfeld that she credits for finally giving her the push she needed to launch her own label. “I mentioned that I’d like to have a fashion brand one day and he bluntly told me, ‘You either have it or you don’t. And if you have it, go for it’,” she says. Bojana was confident she had that elusive ‘it,’ and was intrigued by outerwear design because she saw a gap in the market for coats that were both feminine and warm. Her biggest issue? Finding the right material. A solution appeared when she came across alpaca while working on a media project in Peru. “Peruvians are very proud of two things: gastronomy and alpaca fibre, which is native to the country,” she says. “At all of
STYLE
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STYLE
my meetings, everybody would ask: Have you tried our food? Isn’t it amazing? And have you felt an alpaca product? Isn’t it the softest?” Bojana learned that alpaca has microscopic air pockets that have thermal insulating features and also keep the fabric very lightweight. Intrigued, she spent several months living in Peru to learn more about the material’s quality and grading. She also discovered that both the fabric and fur are cruelty-free, sustainable and ecological, with the former made from sheered fleece and the latter a by-product of domesticated alpacas that have passed from natural causes. She was sold. Next came a design process that, according to Bojana’s description, sounds refreshingly simple – as though each piece was already living inside her somewhere. And that’s probably because she had an unwavering idea of what she wanted her brand to be. “I created seven coats that I personally wanted to own,” she says. “I had a duffel coat, a cape, a classic wrap coat, a hooded coat… I had another cape that had fur trim at
the bottom. It was basically everything that I wanted to own myself but couldn’t find anywhere.” That first collection was tightly edited and perfectly showcased Bojana’s design sensibilities and the clothing she envisioned a Sentaler woman would want to wear: ladylike, sophisticated classics that were also functional. Seven years later, it was those core values that led to the Duchess of Cambridge, the one-and-only Kate Middleton, wearing Sentaler’s wrap coat with ribbed sleeves on her royal tour of Canada in September 2016. “We experienced the ‘Kate Effect’ instantly,” says Bojana. “The coat sold out in gull grey, then in every colour. We received demand for basically everything on our website and were shipping to every country you can think of – New Zealand to Kuwait – from our ecommerce platform.” Kate’s support brought international recognition to the Canadian fashion industry, something that makes Bojana incredibly proud. That the coat is still one of the brand’s bestsellers – in every colour they carry – is a sizeable bonus.
“When designing, the I have “WeI’m experienced the core values of timelessness, ‘Kate Effect’ instantly. elegance and quality. If you look The coat sold out in gull grey, at the royals and what they wear, then it’s allinofevery those colour.” things.”
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Sentaler next saw a massive boom in sales when Meghan Markle (now the Duchess of Sussex) wore the wide-collar wrap coat in camel for her first official appearance with the royal family in December 2017. The former Suits actress was already a fan of the brand from her time living in Toronto and she owned and had been photographed in several of the coats, but this time the entire world was watching when she stepped out on Christmas Day. “I knew she owned the coat,” says Bojana. “But I didn’t know she would wear it on that occasion. She shopped her closet.” The item instantly sold out in camel, then again in every other colour. That two of the world’s most influential style icons chose to wear Sentaler is no accident, and it’s something that Bojana has long dreamed of and worked towards. “It was natural and organic,” she says, that the two royals would be the ones to bring her label to international fame. “When I’m designing, I have the core values of timelessness, elegance and quality. If you look at the royals and what they wear, it’s all of those things. Sentaler is the epitome of what Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle stand for, so it’s the perfect marriage.” Sentaler now retails in brick-and-mortar shops in Canada and the United States and launched in Asia’s Lane Crawford in October. The label also continues to ship around the world from sentaler.com. Thanks to incredibly loyal customers, as well as new clients brought on board by the Kate and Meghan Effect, the demand for luxe alpaca outerwear only continues to grow. Some women even own upwards of 20 Sentaler coats and purchase each season’s limited-edition hue without fail (this fall it’s lilac). In the next five years, Bojana wants to expand her product offerings, though she won’t say what direction she plans on going. Handbags? Lingerie? Eveningwear? Whatever she chooses, she’ll make sure every detail perfectly suits the Sentaler essence, which has been airtight since day one. If you think that Bojana’s journey seems like a fairy tale – interviewing Karl Lagerfeld in Dubai, finding the perfect material in Peru, dressing royalty – you’re only partly right. Because so much of the brand’s upward trajectory is ultimately the result of two things: one woman’s steadfast vision, and her capacity for the thankless skills required to grow a business. “When I launched Sentaler, I was wearing eight different hats,” says Bojana. “I understand how business works and operates. A lot of designers lack this education. They can create a beautiful collection, but if they don’t know how to market and style it, it’s really hard to succeed.” That’s what makes the difference between a designer that falls into the cracks of history and a powerhouse brand that continues to flourish and remain relevant with each passing year. If the label continues on its current path, not only will young women be pulling Sentaler pieces out of their grandmothers’ closets in 30 years, but they’ll also be lining up to purchase one of their very own.
“When I’m designing, “We experienced the I have the core values Effect’ instantly. of‘Kate timelessness, elegance Thequality. coat soldIfout and you look at in gull grey, the royals andthen what they in every wear, it’s colour.” all of those things.”
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416-493-2594 1-800-268-3159 host@casinomg.com Sid Green, Michael Rosen, Sam Zomparelli, Lora Green, David Delellis, Ardith Cairns
TRAVEL ON E &ONLY ’S U LTRA- LUXU RY PORTFOLI O E XPANDS WITH N ATURE RE SORTS IN RWANDA is climbing higher on the list of must-see
AFRICA
destinations for travellers with the addition of resorts within reach of viewing endangered mountain gorillas. This year, One&Only, known for their luxe beachside locales, adds two more hotels for primate sightings. Taking guest reservations starting October, One&Only Nyungwe House is built on a working tea plantation in the south of Rwanda on the edge of Nyungwe National Park, home to 13 different species of primates. In 2019, One&Only Gorilla’s Nest will open, set in the foothills of the Virunga Volcano Range, where guests will be able to discover the magical habitat of mountain gorillas, a rare adventure. Rwanda is one of only three countries in the world where the critically endangered mountain gorillas live. Experts estimate there are only 780 mountain gorillas still in existence; one third of these are in Rwanda. “It is an absolute privilege and an honour to confirm the opening of One&Only Nyungwe House, the second addition to our Nature Resorts portfolio, and to provide our guests with the rare opportunity to explore this remote and authentically wild location. Our guests will be able to trek with chimpanzees, or discover the endangered Mangabey monkeys, walk among majestic mahogany trees and spot exotic birds, orchids and butterflies,” says Philippe Zuber, president and Chief Operating Officer, One&Only Resorts. “We have created an ultra-luxury oasis which celebrates every possible moment of this remote jungle environment from sunrise breakfasts, or treehouse yoga, enjoying soothing indigenous spa therapies in the warm tropical air, through to evening cocktails by a crackling fire pit.” oneandonlyresorts.com
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T R AV E L News
LE MAS CANDILLE OPENS IN FRANCE Small Luxury Hotels of the World has a new addition to their portfolio of distinctive destinations in Mougins, France. Secluded within eight acres of terraced Provençal grounds and surrounded by fragrant cypress trees and fields of olive groves, Le Mas Candille is an elegant five-star boutique hotel with a Michelin-star restaurant and three instagram-worthy swimming pools. Located in Mougins – the medieval Riviera village which was once home to Pablo Picasso – the property was originally an 18th century farmhouse. Each of the 38 bedrooms and seven suites have been designed in a modern Provençal style combining shabby-chic French antiques with contemporary furnishings. Beyond the hotel, there´s plenty to discover from Mougins’ cobbled streets, Grasse’s perfume factories to St Tropez´s glamorous beaches. slh.com
new spot in Zanzibar
FOUR SEASONS TA K E S C E N T R E S TAG E I N KUALA LUMPUR
Opened this past summer, Zuri Zanzibar’s 55 bungalows, suites and villas are nestled on a sunset-facing beach on the Spice Island of Unguja. Combining elegant contemporary design with a considerate, sustainable build and authentic African atmosphere, Zuri Zanzibar provides its guests with handpicked amenities and services from local, sustainable and fair-trade organizations. Boasting some of the
The luxury lifestyle has a new
archipelago’s finest natural wonders, the hotel offers 300 metres of private, pristine
address in the third tallest building
beach, unspoilt coral reefs, a lush spice garden and gorgeous sunsets. The property
in Malaysia in the Golden Triangle
includes three restaurants, four bars and a yoga and wellness centre. zurizanzibar.com
district. Located within a glittering new skyscraper next to the Petronas
SIX SENSES TO O P E N I N B H U TA N
Towers, Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur rises 65-storeys above the busy streets of the capital. Located
Six Senses Bhutan is a collection of five boutique
next to Kuala Lumpur Convention
lodges set in the western and central valleys of
Centre, the new building houses the
Bhutan, each with its own character, environment
hotel with 209 guest rooms and suites,
and experiences. The Thimphu, Paro and Punakha
as well as serviced apartments for
resorts will open in October 2018 with reservations
those guests looking for an extended
now being accepted for stays starting November.
stay, and Four Seasons Private
Gangtey and Bumthang resorts open in early 2019.
Residences. The hotel is part of Kuala
General Manager Mark Swinton says, “There is so
Lumpur City Centre, a 100-acre
much to explore in this mystical Himalayan kingdom,
complex with upscale shopping, fine
with its cultural, natural and spiritual beauty making
dining and vibrant nightlife next to
a compelling choice. Compassion is a way of life in
a 50-acre urban green park. Leisure
Bhutan and it extends to the protection of nature
facilities are highlighted by an outdoor
and sustainability. Six Senses Bhutan shares these
pool oasis with private cabanas
values and has become an integral part of the
and adjacent bar and grill, and an
local fabric.” Each location will have its own spa
eight treatment room spa offering a
and wellness centre with extensive facilities and
carefully designed menu inspired by
treatments reflecting the valley in which they are
Malaysian healing traditions and the latest global therapies. fourseasons.com
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Six Senses Punakha, a Flying Farmhouse amidst Rice Fields
set. sixsenses.com
THE SOUL-CLEANSING BEAUTY OF DOMINICA by J O S E P H I N E M A T YA S
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Chat
with a local and sooner or later they’ll tell you
that if Christopher Columbus sailed through the Caribbean today, the only island he’d recognize is Dominica, because it is not so different than when he left it. This unsullied bliss is why Dominica is close to my heart. It is authentic Caribbean – sure, there are discreet splashes of luxury – with nary a mass tourism casino or chain resort in sight. Dominica is the destination equivalent of the 100-Mile Diet: it’s as local, pristine and cleansing as it gets. The tiny Leeward Island took a direct hit from Hurricane Maria in late 2017. But, in true Caribbean spirit, islanders picked up and dove into repair and renewal. Storms are a fact of life across the Caribbean and while it was pummelled a year ago, the greenery of the rainforest is coming back, resorts have opened their doors and most of the attractions are operating. Mother Nature always instructs, and the island was ready to listen. Dominica (not to be confused with the larger, busier Dominican Republic) is nicknamed The Nature Island for its unspoiled setting, rainforest-cloaked mountains, waterfalls and 365 rivers that are irresistible magnets for vigorous outdoor enthusiasts. They come to tackle sections of Waitukubuli National Trail, the longest continuous hiking trail in the Caribbean, to float down rivers, to walk the rainforest and spot rare birds, to watch turtles hatch on the black volcanic sand beaches, and to explore the offshore reefs, the “rainforests of the sea,” so named because of the burst of life under the surface. Driving on island is not for the faint of heart. Dominicans drive on the left, roads are narrow and traffic rips along. This is a small circle of land, crammed with hilly rainforest; the roadway snakes along the coastline occasionally detouring inland to climb the green-draped slopes of volcanoes. At the top there are small farm plots crowded with yams, plantains, bananas and coconut. In some spots the post-hurricane bridge crossings taper to one lane and there can be a bit of back-and-forth negotiation as drivers beep horns to determine a pecking order. To really understand Dominica, explains my driver Margel Durand, a visitor needs to hike the trails. And for this, the island delivers big time. Dominica’s hiking trails, it turns out, are considerably less mellow than its inhabitants. With the folds in landscape, the ups and downs can be challenging, although ripe with history and vistas over green forest and sapphire seas. At its peak operation, the Waitukubuli National Trail is 185 kilometres long, with 85 river crossings, seven waterfalls, 56 mountain passes and 600 species of flora and fauna. Most hikers choose one or two The view from one of Secret Bay Resort’s villas. LUXE MAGAZINE • AUTUMN 2 018
5C1
The dramatic cliff side locale of Secret Bay Resort, Dominica.
segments. Margel delivers me to the trailhead of Section 13 and
hatched parrots were sheltered from the storm and have been
into the hands of guide Justin Dubois.
reintroduced into the rainforest. Although well camouflaged
“People come here for the adventure and the nature,” says Justin. “This section of the trail was established in the time of
and difficult to spot, their squawks and screeches cut across the otherwise tranquil forest.
slavery, so it is centuries old. It was used to move goods from one
For me, that kind of sweat and calorie output warrants a balm
area to another. High in the hills, the trail joins the old Grand
of luxury hidden in the rough. Perched cliff side, overlooking the
Fond Estate, which grew coffee and cocoa, and the Seaman’s
Caribbean Sea, Secret Bay Resort has gathered accolades world-
Estate, which grew sugarcane.”
wide for its setting, amenities and service. After taking a breather
I struggle to keep up to Justin on the rocky trail; but along the
to rebuild post-hurricane, the boutique property has expanded
way we stop for breaks and pluck guavas and papayas from bran-
services and is reopening just in time to welcome winter-weary
ches, the juice running down my hands as we sit at the base of
guests from the north.
an enormous fig tree to recharge. The beauty of this trail is how
The rebuilt resort is scheduled to reopen in November 2018
it is sectioned and ranked by the challenge of the terrain. There’s
with six eco-luxury villas, each with a private plunge pool and
a virtual menu from easy to gruelling and, post-hurricane, it’s
access to the services of a dedicated concierge and chef. Designed
best to check which sections are cleared and open. Because of the
in upscale, comfortable residential-style, these are truly homes
rural nature of much of the island (and the trails), hiking with a
away from home. In addition to plunge pools, high-end linens,
certified guide is a good idea.
glass showers, fully-equipped kitchens and expansive balconies, each villa is decked out with the latest technology – high speed
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THE NEXT DAY Justin takes pity on my aching shins and we head
wifi, use of a personal smartphone, wireless Bose sound systems
for the easier Syndicate Nature Trail, where the mostly-level path
and Apple TV. On property, there’s a new sit-down, canopy-style
winds through stands of old growth like the chatannyé trees
restaurant featuring locally sourced ingredients. Rather than a set
that have withstood centuries of storms and hurricanes. To get
menu, the chef prepares in-season dishes based on guests’ prefe-
to the trailhead, we drive a half-hour along twisty roads into the
rences. For those who prefer to eat in their villa, residence-style,
mountains from the capital city of Roseau. The trail is an access
Secret Bay continues its trademark private, in-villa dining and
point into Morne Diablotin National Park, 2,000 acres of reserved
personalized pre-stocking services.
forest originally set aside for the protection of Dominica’s two
Also new in fall 2018 is a riverside yoga, spa and wellness pavi-
endemic parrots, the Sisserou (the rarest of all Amazon parrots)
lion with a menu of yoga classes and spa services. Integrated into
and the Jaco. Hiking and birding are the two most popular
the foliage is a private treehouse-style couple’s massage room,
pastimes in Morne Diablotin National Park. Many of the wild-
while the yoga pavilion is suspended over the magical Cario River.
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Clockwise from top: A view from Secret Bay Resort, Sari Sari Falls, a secluded villa at Secret Bay Resort, Point Baptiste Beach. LUXE MAGAZINE • AUTUMN 2 018
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Each eco-luxury villa at Secret Bay Resort has a private plunge pool.
It’s all tucked into a secluded breathtaking setting of rainforest cliffs overlooking a deep blue sea, but it’s not just the surrounding ocean that is a pull for the water enthusiast. With 365 rivers, it’s the force of water running from the mountaintops toward the black-sand beaches that sculpts much of the landscape. But just one, Indian River, is navigable by boat and the popular river tours are up and running. A boat trip begins at the sea and winds several kilometres upstream – with a guide at the oars doing all the heavy work – and could be the best way to experience the island rainforest without chancing blisters and wobbly legs. Indian River is the deepest of the island’s many rivers and it’s tidal, so it acts like a protective nursery for marine life (no engines allowed; the power of oars only). The riverbanks, lined with palm trees, bloodroot and mangroves, are so lush that it was chosen as a filming site for the Hollywood movie, Pirates of the Caribbean. As our skiff slides along the surface, iguanas hustle along the intricate roots of the bwa mang trees and turtles soak up patches of sunshine. The vegetation, vines and brackish water are home to agouti, lizards, land crabs and snakes like the boa constrictor. The massive greenery of Dominica acts like the lungs of the Earth, pumping out oxygen. Along came a massive whirl of wind and rain, tearing into the island and creating an asthmatic-like attack. But Mother Nature heals and in the tropics the greenery roars back. For adventurous souls who crave an off-the-beaten-track experience, soothed by nature with a little help by luxury, Dominica is calling out. I can hear it too.
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PLANNING TIPS Dominica is a compact island, just 42 km by 10 km. Dry season is January to April; rainy season is July to October. Hiring a certified driving guide is the best and safest way to navigate the island’s serpentine roads. There are no direct flights from Canada; transfers are through San Juan, Antigua and Barbados. Harder to get to = more secluded. Local currency is the Eastern Caribbean dollar (EC$) which trades at EC$2.67 to the U.S. dollar. Electricity is 220V service. Many hotels offer adapters or both 220V and 110V service. The friendly people of Dominica are primarily of West African heritage although the island is home to the Kalinago. Formerly known as the Caribs, the Kalinago reclaimed their tribal name to honour a rich pre-Columbian heritage and traditions under threat of extinction. discoverdominica.com Secret Bay is on the west side of the island, about a 90-minute drive from the airport. The five-star property has been named the World’s Best Boutique Hotel 2016, Condé Nast Traveller’s Readers’ Choice 2017, Travel + Leisure’s Best Caribbean Resorts 2016 and Caribbean Journal’s Small Caribbean Hotel of 2015. secretbay.dm
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#changeisbrewing
can coffee make the world a better place?
OURS DOES.
REVOLUTION COFFEE CO. SUSTAINABLY FARMED SOCIALLY RESPONSIBLE revolutioncoffeecompany.com
FOOD SLOW & SCRUMPTIOUS SLOW FOOD advocates and accomplished chefs Jeff Crump and Copyright © 2018 Jeff Crump and Bettina Schormann. Published by Penguin, an imprint of Penguin Canada, a division of Penguin Random House Canada Limited. Reproduced by arrangement with the Publisher. All rights reserved.
Bettina Schormann, effortlessly turned the bounty of the seasons into a stunning collection of approachable everyday recipes. Earth to Table Every Day is all about seeking out good ingredients for a delicious, seasonal approach to cooking. This collection of 140 simple, everyday recipes, full of familiar ingredients and vibrant flavours – peppered throughout with inspiring stories and gorgeous photography – includes Curried Lentil Soup with Coconut Yogurt, Arugula and Fennel Salad, Mushroom Tarts with Taleggio Cheese, Creamy Hummus with Fried Chickpeas, Piri Piri Baby Back Ribs, Apple Bacon Pizza, Rhubarb Upside Down Cake, Chocolate Brownies, and Raspberry Swirl Cheesecake. Jeff Crump is a Canadian slow food pioneer and co-author of the bestseller Earth to Table. He has worked at a number of top restaurants, including Lumiere, Chez Panisse and The Fat Duck. He is the executive chef of Landmark Restaurant Group. Bettina Schormann is co-author of the bestseller Earth to Table and co-founder of the Earth to Table: Bread Bar restaurants. She has been baking professionally for over a decade and was the recipient of the 2006 OHI Pastry Chef of the Year. Available October 16, $35, published by Penguin Random House.
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FOOD News
NIFTY SIFT AND MEASURE GADGET Powered by the must-have in every kitchen, the KitchenAid Stand Mixer, the new Sifter and Scale Attachment is an easy-to-use digital scale that measures and sifts ingredients. Measuring by weight offers bakers a greater level of precision, so baked goods turn out the way they should. With handsfree sifting, this attachment gives you more consistent mixing and fluffy baked goods. The Sifter and Scale chute neatly funnels weighed and sifted ingredients into the mixer bowl and holds up to four cups of dry ingredients at a time. Available at kitchenaid.ca, $230.
CASAMIGOS LAUNCHE S MEZCAL PA R A D I S E T H E AT R E W I L L B E R E B O R N A S R E S TA U R A N T After being shuttered for more than 12 years, the historic Art Deco Paradise Theatre on Bloor Street is set to reopen later this year as a restaurant and bar. The intimate restaurant Osteria Rialto will have Chef Basilio Pesce at the helm (La Banane, Canoe, Cheese Boutique), and Bar Biltmore’s cocktail menu will be created by Robin Goodfellow (Prettyugly, Bar Raval). The property was purchased by Moray Tawse (Tawse Winery) with plans to restore The Paradise to its original glory. “Paradise has a remarkable history and through its transformation, Toronto has a new way to connect with its past,” says Moray Tawse, Paradise owner. “There’s something special about the communal experience – especially in a heritage space like this one, which has brought so many people together over the past century. I look forward to Paradise continuing this proud tradition for another hundred years.” Currently undergoing restoration, the Art Deco and Art Moderne heritage-designated landmark plans to offer customers the ultimate in comfort and state-of-the-art technology. The renovated venue will boast a revitalized stage and cinema screen with in-seat dining on the balcony level, a fullservice restaurant, lively cocktail bar and a private dining area. paradiseonbloor.com
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GEORGE CLOONEY, RANDE GERBER AND MIKE MELDMAN, THE CREATORS BEHIND CASAMIGOS TEQUILA RECENTLY INTRODUCED CASAMIGOS MEZCAL . “There’s nothing like it on the market,” say Clooney and Gerber. “We’ve created a mezcal that is as good as our tequila.” While creating the fastest growing and most popular tequila in the world, Clooney and Gerber tasted 700 samples before finding the perfect one. During one of those infamous nights, they were also given a variety of mezcals to try. “I think people will love our mezcal as much as we do. We have proven to never settle for anything but the best and are extremely proud of what our family in Oaxaca have created. The fact that their tradition has continued over four generations, shows their dedication to perfection,” says Gerber. Made in Santiago Matatlán, Oaxaca, Mexico, Casamigos Mezcal is artisanal and crafted from 100 per cent Espadin agaves. Casamigos Mezcal is twice distilled and allowed to stabilize for 30 days before mountain spring water is added to finalize the mezcal. As with Casamigos Tequila, before going into the bottle, each batch is tasted and approved by Clooney and Gerber. Even the bottle is hand-crafted, with no two being identical. Available in September, $89.95
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CRITIQUE • DON ALFONSO 1890 •
1 9 T O R O N T O S T, T O R O N T O
T H E N E W O U T P O ST O F A N I TA L I A N M I C H E L I N - S TA R C H E F MICHELIN HAS THE DISTINCTION of being the most influential restaurant rating system in the world. Originally a promotion by the eponymous French tire company eager to encourage more driving, Michelin began sending anonymous inspectors to evaluate restaurants in 1926. More than 90 years later, a three-star ranking is considered the highest accolade in the business. Restaurants awarded one star are deemed to be very good in their category; two stars are awarded to restaurants that are “excellent cooking worth a detour,” and the elusive third star is awarded only to those considered “exceptional cuisine worth a special journey.” The much-lauded guides are also criticized for being limited by geography, focused on only “fancy” restaurants and for being sweet on the French – France has the most Michelin stars in the world. In Canada we have no Michelin-starred restaurants, not because we don’t have talented chefs, the guides don’t operate here (why they don’t is a much longer, divisive conversation). In a move to bring the quality and status of Michelin to Toronto, Nick Di Donato of Liberty Entertainment Group (Blueblood Steakhouse, Cibo Wine Bar, Spice Route, Casa Loma, Liberty Grand) partnered with Italian Chef Ernesto Iaccarino’s Don Alfonso 1890. Don Alfonso 1890 is a restaurant concept with outposts in Italy, New Zealand and China; and now Toronto. Aside from global experience as a restaurateur, Chef Iaccarino brings with him his coveted Michelin star – actually, two of them. Chef Alfonso Iaccarino grew up in Sant’Agata, Italy (near Sorrento) working in his family’s hotel. Hotel Iaccarino was established in 1890 (explaining the restaurant name). He and his wife opened their first restaurant in 1973; after ten years they left the hotel and devoted themselves to the operation of Don Alfonso 1890. In the years since, the restaurant earned a Michelin star, and then another, and then another (it had three stars from 1997 though 2001). Chef Ernesto Iaccarino grew up working in the family restaurant and became chef of Don Alfonso 1890 in 2003. The
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FOOD
Petit Fours
Photos courtesy Liberty Entertainment Group/Don Alfonso 1890
2018 Michelin Guide awarded Don Alfonso 1890 two stars.
smoky duck is thinly sliced and rare, wrapped around tender
For the Toronto outpost, the Liberty Group took the old
baby spinach. Dutifully I swirl the apple, Balsamic and demi-
Consumers Gas building at 19 Toronto Street (built in 1852,
glace together with the duck. It is indeed a perfect mouthful.
also former Rosewater) and turned it into a study in crisp
It’s a searing August day in Toronto, but the plate conjures
white and shimmering gold, dotted with art. The vision
thoughts of autumn with flavours of apple alongside duck.
of Liberty Entertainment Group VP and Creative Director,
From the “Contemporary” menu (also available from the
Nadia DiDonato, respect was paid to the building’s past with
a la carte menu – more on that later), Rigatoni Vesuvius is
hand -painted cornice moldings and original pillars along
a study in the colours of the Italian flag. Perfectly al dente
with contemporary art and gold-laced accent furniture.
rigatoni pasta is plated on end, surrounding fresh peas and
The entrance (held open by the restaurant’s valet parking
ricotta di Bufala, along with an eruption of tomato, basil and
attendants when I arrive) is dominated by a large work by
Parmesan. The flavours are undeniably fresh and the artistry of
Toronto artist Daniel Mazzone. A gorgeous under-lit onyx bar
the plate is enhanced by the choice of serving dish (black and
is to the left, then past the sparkling, open-concept kitchen,
textured like volcanic rock), another successful design choice
the main dining room. This space is dominated by a piece
by Nadia DiDonato. If you’ve ever visited the Amalfi Coast,
of sculpture (subjectively loved or hated) by renowned artist
you’ll realize this dish is inspired by Chef Iaccarino’s home,
Philippe Pasqua.
Mount Vesuvius seen on the horizon across the Gulf of Naples.
The kitchen may be one of the prettiest I’ve seen. All white,
The highlight of the meal though, is Bison in Rustic Bread
sparkling, rows of white stone worktops with kitchen staff
Crust. A Manitoba bison tenderloin, wrapped in delicate layers
buzzing at each station, the entire thing open to the dining
of Swiss chard and mozzarella inside a bread crust. It is plated
room save a pane of glass. The kitchen is led by Executive
with a dollop of zingy tomato sauce, a verdant herbal green
Chef Saverio Macri (Cibo Wine Bar) in partnership, and after
sauce and drizzled with demi-glace. Again, we are asked to mix
training, with Chefs Alfonso and Ernesto Iaccarino.
the sauces together to attain the perfect flavour. Tasted indi-
The menu concept is a chef’s tasting of eight courses
vidually, the flavours slightly harsh, but combined they sing.
($150), available with an optional sommelier-led wine
The bison is rare, and perfectly tender. I could say it may have
pairing ($100). Your only decision is to choose between the
been very slightly salty (for my taste), but in a word: delicious.
Classic and Contemporary Menus. “Contemporary” is code
Upstairs, in the mezzanine, you can order from the a
for vegetarian menu, and the restaurant tells me most diners
la carte menu, or enjoy the cocktail service from a menu
choose the “Classic” menu.
designed by Bar Manager and Mixologist Oliver Stern. If
The question could be posed about the eagerness of diners
you select a concoction from the “Molecular Menu” you
to embrace a set menu, but there is something to be said
enjoy tableside cocktail service for inventive libations like
for removing choice. I always ask what is the best dish that
The Modern Martini Pairing. Enjoy the performance of its
day anyway; what the chef recommends – so why not really
creation from the bar cart wheeled to your table, and the
relax, and let the kitchen do its work?
martini served on a platter of ice with “caviar” pearls. The
The restaurant is light and airy, a pleasure of a space, really.
mezzanine is a comfortable space with low sofas and some
There are plenty of staff on hand – but this could be the result
regular seating. On the night I visit, a table of four young
of visiting during early weeks of service.
men are enjoying the show of their molecular cocktail being
Seared Muscovy Duck Breast is served with mashed gala
prepared tableside. It’s an unexpectedly informal interlude
apples, baby spinach, a reduction of balsamic vinegar and
of entertainment in what could be a stiff and formal setting.
anise demi-glace. The plate is garnished with pulverized
Downstairs, desserts are presented on a footed plate in a
cinnamon and borage. We are instructed that the chef
swirl of fog; another amusing touch that makes the meal as
intends for each of the elements on the plate to be mixed and
memorable as it was tasty.
mingled in each bite, so to be sure to combine each of the
*Our writer has dined at the restaurant anonymously, meals were
sauces and garnishes for the intended flavour. The slightly
not subsidized by the establishment.
Bison in Rustic Bread Crust
Rigatoni Vesuvius
Seared Muscovy Duck Breast LUXE MAGAZINE • AUTUMN 2 018
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FOOD
Bubbles for any day
✪✪✪✪+
by M I C H A E L P I N K U S
HE LAUNCH of a new anything is really exciting – be it a boat, a new business, a magazine – new is always exciting. Remember your first new car? The smell, the feel, the first drive … that’s kind of how I feel today, but instead of looking for that new car smell I’m looking for the scent of wine. I’m listening for the sound of a freshly uncorked bottle or (as is the case more often these days) the crack of the cap. I’ll be honest, both get me excited for what’s to come, but the one sound that above all else inspires the most smiles on the most faces; the most ohhs and ahhs from a crowd of people, is the sound of a bottle of bubbly being opened. That also seems like the perfect way to launch a new magazine, and this column within it. Since we are, most likely, meeting for the first time allow me to introduce myself. I’m Michael Pinkus, and I have been a wine journalist (meaning I write and taste a lot of wine from all over the world) for more than 15 years. My love affair with wine goes back even further though, to my days of watching theatre in Niagara-onthe-Lake and needing something to do between performances. I have tasted more bad wine in my lifetime than I believe anyone should be allowed, but I taste them all so I can give you a perspective on the best bottles out there, both value-wise and taste-wise. Trust me, often times, those two are at opposite ends of the spectrum. I also don’t believe in over scoring or the 100-point system. I use a star-system based on 5 = Outstanding, 4.5 = Excellent, 4 = Very Good and 3.5 = Good. Sometimes I add a little plus sign to show the wine offers a bonus but not enough to go to the next level. Now back to those bubbles I referred to earlier. Sparkling wine has a special place in my heart, and not for the usual reason. Everybody seems to love bubbles in their wine, as long as they were meant to be there. I was not a bubbles fan in my formative years. My father called it “ginger ale in a dirty beer glass” – not very inspiring to say
the least – and thus I never really took to them, nor did I collect the stuff in my wine cellar. Then I met my soon-to-be wife and that all changed. Bubbles were a reason to celebrate and I felt I found my reason, a born romantic I guess. Funny thing is my wife is a self-described beer drinker. Thankfully that has all changed over time, though she has yet to fully commit to the red side of wine. So, I started a collection of sparkling wine in my cellar – both traditional (secondary fermentation occurs in the very bottle you purchase – aka the Champagne method) and Charmat (secondary fermentation happens in a large tank) – and we waited for reasons to celebrate. After a while we collected enough that we had to start making up our own “holidays” and special occasions, so we determined that Friday night was as good a reason as any (#SparklingWineFriday). Bubbles are meant to be enjoyed more often and more freely, be it Prosecco from Italy, Cava from Spain, Sekt from Germany, Champagne from France, Cremant from France or Vin Mousseux from France (let’s face it the French love their bubbles). I know so many people that allow bubbles to linger too long in their possession without finding a reason to pop them. Find that reason, bubbles are too good to waste on a shelf. There’s lots of choice from around the word, and more and more, right here at home where we have the perfect climate to make sparkling wines. On the occasion of the newly launched magazine that you now hold in your hand, I am going to get you started with a small array of bubbly wines you can get today and start celebrating when ever the fancy strikes: end of a long week, start of a new one, surviving a family visit, a mid-week break or even the weekend. You name the occasion, sparkling is ripe for the glass and they are made for drinking. The good news is, unlike christening a boat, the bottle won’t smash if you strike it against the side of the magazine, so I guess we’ll all just have to drink our respective bottles … so bottoms up and enjoy.
✪✪✪✪+
✪✪✪✪+
✪✪✪✪+
✪ ✪ ✪ ✪++ ✪✪✪✪+
WINE SCORING SYSTEM: ✪ ✪ ✪ ✪ ✪ = Outstanding
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✪ ✪ ✪ ✪ ✪ = Excellent
LUXE MAGAZINE • AUTUMN 2 018
✪ ✪ ✪ ✪ = Very Good
✪ ✪ ✪ ✪= Good.
+ The wine offers a bonus but not enough to go to the next level.
TAITTINGER PRESTIGE BRUT ROSÉ CHAMPAGNE ($79.95 - #993113) Sparkling does not get more elegant than a Rosé Champagne and Taittinger has made liquid pink gold here with minerality and finesse wrapped in cherry, almond, blood orange, hazelnut and good acidity. ✪ ✪ ✪ ✪ + GARDET CUVEE SAINT FLAVY TRADITION BRUT CHAMPAGNE ($43.95 - #924654) One of the best value Champagne offerings on the Liquor Board shelves: nice and toasty with almond and lemon/lime, brioche and mineral. For those of you who don’t want to cross the $50 barrier when it comes to a mid-weekday Champagne. ✪ ✪ ✪ ✪ + BAILLY LAPIERRE RESERVE BRUT CREMANT DE BOURGOGNE
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This also comes in a half bottle too: Do Not, repeat DO NOT, Get That One. The big bottle is the bomb: good acidity, biscuit, apple, toasty, fresh and lively with mineral, lemon and lime on the finish. ✪✪✪✪+ CONO SUR BRUT ROSÉ ($13.95 - #365205) For those of you seeking value in an everyday bubble this funny shaped bottle of Rose Brut from 100 per cent Pinot Noir fits the bill nicely; plus no one will question its origin – until they ask where they can get a few bottles, then it is up to you to spill the beans. ✪ ✪ ✪ ✪ HENRY OF PELHAM CUVEE CATHARINE BRUT ROSÉ ($29.95 - #217515) Still one of the best Rosé bubbles made in Ontario – it’s consistently a winner. Great acidity is always
ITALIAN WRAPS
the hallmark here, the finish doles out fabulously fresh lime notes while the mid-palate gives the impression of over-ripe strawberries. ✪ ✪ ✪ ✪ + TRIUS NV BRUT
& more
($29.95 - #284539) This amazingly consistent bubble from Ontario continues to win awards around the world, and offers outstanding value when compared with the higher-priced spread. Lemon and baked apple notes lie in-between a silky pastry like breadiness: it’s fresh, clean and lively – perfect for any occasion. ✪✪✪✪+
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LUXE MAGAZINE • AUTUMN 2 018
63
Creating Inspired Spaces
Carolynn Tersigni Design 2780 Hwy 7, Unit 107, Woodbridge
647.534.9252 carolynntersigni@gmail.com
Serving GTA
CULTURE
FINE ART FOR THE MASSES
RESTORATION HARDWARE (RH) recently revealed their partnership
identical reproduction of the original painting, complete with texture. The
with an innovative new art curation and publishing company called General
Synograph provides folks with an alternative to collecting paintings and
Public. A first-of-its-kind concept, General Public creates exacting 3D
the flat poster-like print. This proprietary technology and our professional
reproductions of original works of art by a select group of emerging and
curation is how we bridge the gap.” The collection features paintings from
established artists. Founded by actress and artist Portia de Rossi, the
artists Koen Lybaert (Antwerp), Kali Sanders (Los Angeles), Seb Sweatman
concept is to make great art more accessible. “I created General Public
(Johannesburg) and Paul van Rij (Amsterdam). Gary Friedman, RH
because I wanted to bridge the gap between the decorative and the fine
Chairman and CEO says, “Portia and the General Public team have created
art market. Although many folks have an appreciation of art and would
the first platform that truly amplifies the artist, enabling an authentic
like to own good works by good artists, not everyone wants to learn about
expression of their work to be experienced by exponentially more people.
the art market or they find collecting – and the galleries – intimidating,”
We are advocates of Portia’s quest to transform the art world, and proud to
says Rossi. “We developed a print, called a Synograph, that is an almost
partner with her and the General Public team to make great art accessible.”
LUXE MAGAZINE • AUTUMN 2 018
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BASARIR ARTIST CEM BASARIR INTERPRETS TORONTO S T R E E T S C A P E S A S S O F T, D R E A M L I K E S C E N E S . by S H E R R Y S M I T H E R + photography by A N N A L I S A S A N G
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CONTEMPORARY ARTIST CEM BASARIR was three-ye-
features of these buildings and beautiful paintings in
ars-old when he sat beside his father’s easel watching
the churches drew my attention; I visited them over
him paint. “One day when my dad was not home, I
and over again,” he says.
went into his study room, took his paints and brushes,
Summers were spent by the seaside of his uncle’s
and tried to complete a painting he was working on,”
historical hotel; on the walls hung dozens of 19th
recalls Basarir. “I actually ruined the painting!”
century paintings. His parents and relatives couldn’t
Growing up in Izmir, Turkey influenced Basarir’s
help but notice the young Basarir’s fascination with
art profoundly. He would get together with friends
paintings. They would give him gifts of paints and
after dinner and listen to tales told by their parents.
brushes, allowing him to express himself through art,
“I used to lie down, watch stars and dive into dreams
as his father did with his hobby.
all the time,” he reflects. “There were many historical
Stories from his childhood eventually drew Basarir
buildings in my neighbourhood. The architectural
to Toronto. “My father was a military pilot. A long
LUXE MAGAZINE • AUTUMN 2 018
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“Since I prefer to live downtown, naturally my paintings reflect themes from urban life; I like to catch its beauty.”
365 Evans Avenue in West Toronto, owned and directed by Donna Child. “I first met Donna when I attended the opening of a show she organized in a downtown gallery. I was very impressed by her presentation and professional approach,” he says. “Later I visited her gallery a few times to attend the openings of exhibitions. Finally, I asked her to work with me.” Child is planning a major exhibit of Basarir’s work in early 2019. Inspired on a trip to Toronto Island, the Turkish-born artist painted “Waiting for the Ferry, Ward’s Island” that is on exhibit at Artworld Fine Art. “I was so impressed by the crowd around me with the beautiful Toronto skyline in the background, that I couldn’t help taking many photographs,” he explains. “When I returned to my studio, I chose one of the best shots and began to paint it on a large scale. When I finished the painting, I saw
time ago through an exchange program, he came to Canada to
that I had made the right decision.” The 60-inch by 68-inch
take language lessons and flight training,” he explains. “When
oil painting evokes a dream-like depiction of the city’s skyline
he returned to Turkey, he regularly told us about Canada, espe-
through the artist’s use of pastel shades of blue, white, mauve
cially Toronto.” When Basarir moved here, he fell in love with
and yellow.
the sites that would become the subjects of his contemporary oil
Basarir’s paintings depicting downtown Toronto are of familiar
paintings. “I love city life, particularly the lifestyle in Toronto.
sites in the city: “Morning Walk, Harbourfront,” “Night Lights,
Since I prefer to live downtown, naturally my paintings reflect
Jarvis Street” and “Silence of Nature, Riverdale Farm,” to name a few.
themes from urban life; I like to catch its beauty,” he says. Basarir’s work is on display at Etobicoke’s Artworld Fine Art,
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When a social media follower saw Basarir’s painting, “Lady In Village” on his website, they commissioned him to create
CULTURE
a painting for their living room. They were inspired by his
Radner of Saturday Night Live fame. Previously he gave art to
artwork and requested a 38-inch by 50-inch oil painting of their
A Night of Art Sale, Toronto’s Gallery Walrus, in support of
family enjoying the backyard pool in their lush garden. Once
SickKids Foundation.
the client sent Basarir a photograph of the scene, they left the rest up to the artist’s imagination.
After graduating from Istanbul University with a Bachelor in Economics, he received a Bachelor of Administration and a
Basarir’s style has evolved over time. “In the early years of my
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Textile Design from Dokuz Eylul Univer-
professional career, I was making paintings with details similar
sity, and went on to study Graphic Arts at Toronto’s George
to photographs. In time, I came to the conclusion that produ-
Brown College in 2007. The artist’s desire to delve deeply into
cing photo-like realistic paintings is just a matter of talent,”
the subject of art dates back to university. “Once in art school,
he explains. He searched for new techniques and changed his
our design teacher told us that he would like to talk about colour
approach. “I paint objects from a unique and liberal personal
theory,” recalls the artist. “But, since colour theory would not
perspective without any unattractive distractions.”
be part of the final exam, none of my 12 classmates wanted to
Basarir generously supports charities close to his heart. In June, he created two 10-inch by 10-inch paintings for the
listen to the teacher. I was the only student who requested him to talk about it!”
Fourth Charitable Marathon in Toronto that aids orphaned
Basarir’s work hangs in many private collections in Toronto:
children in the Ukraine. “Children are very important to
Consulate General of Ukraine, EW Concept, SickKids Foundation
me, no matter where they are from. They are going to build
and Turkish Consulate General. Currently there is a private exhi-
the future,” he says. “The first painting I gave them was a
bition of his art at McCann World Group Canada’s offices until
scene of CN Tower from Toronto Island, and the theme of
October. “Creating beautiful and permanent artwork in my life
the second was a lighthouse, a product of my imagination.”
makes me happy,” he says. “While painting, I feel as if I am on
In March, Basarir donated artwork to the silent auction at
a different planet. I focus on my artwork so deeply that I forget
Paint Nite for Gilda’s Club Greater Toronto, a charity comfor-
everything. It is a great feeling, but so hard to describe!”
ting people with cancer, named after the late comedian Gilda
For more information: cembasarir.com or artworldfineart.com
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CULTURE
ON stage by C H R I S C L AY
TORONTO’S SCOTIABANK ARENA has a number of notto-be-missed concerts over the coming months, including a world-renowned musician who’s nearing the end of a magnificent career as well as a burgeoning superstar. On September 10, CHILDISH GAMBINO brings his This is America Tour to town. Childish Gambino is the stage name of the multi-talented actor, comedian, writer and deejay Donald Glover (he was the young Lando Calrissian in Solo: A Star Wars Story). The video for his single “This is America” has amassed more than 328 million views on YouTube and the incendiary track has inspired countless columns and sparked heated discussion about its timely and relevant messages. Childish Gambino will be joined by special guest Rae Sremmurd. Tickets start at $109.75 and can be purchased through Ticketmaster. Meanwhile, it will be a last chance for many fans to see the legendary ELTON JOHN when his Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour comes to the city September 25 and 26. It’s being called John’s final tour as the musician – who has enjoyed a five-decade career – is ready to call it quits. He’s highly-decorated, wildly influential and beloved by millions for his music, including massive hits such as “Rocket Man,” “Something About the Way You Look Tonight,” “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart” and “I’m Still Standing.” Tickets start at $297.50 through Ticketmaster.
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LUXE MAGAZINE • AUTUMN 2 018
If that’s not enough, there’s always JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE to round out the Thanksgiving holiday weekend on October 9. The multiple Grammy Awardwinner and the man behind huge songs including “SexyBack” and “Cry Me a River” will be performing as part of his The Man of the Woods Tour. He released his fifth studio album, Man of the Woods, earlier this year. Tickets start at $105.91 through Ticketmaster. Over at the Budweiser Stage (which was previously known as the Molson Canadian Amphitheatre), funnyman JIM GAFFIGAN will present an evening of side-splitting comedy on September 14. The performance, which is part of Gaffigan’s Fixer Upper Tour, will feature a whole bunch of new jokes and stories that are sure to leave the audience laughing. Tickets start at $47 and can be purchased through Ticketmonster.com. Country fans can grab their boots and ten-gallon hats to go check out JASON ALDEAN when he comes to the Budweiser Stage on September 15. The multiple award winner, including several Academy of Country Music Awards, released his most recent album Rearview Town earlier this year. Fans know him for hits including “Dirt Road Anthem” and “You Make It Easy.” He will be joined by special guests Luke Combs and Lauren Alaina. Tickets start at $108. At the Toronto Centre for the Arts, Teatron Theatre will present the Cold War era-inspired stage show THE STORY OF ETHEL & JULIUS ROSENBERG in the Studio Theatre. It opens November 8 and continues November10 and 11, 13 to 15 and 17. The Jewish couple
and American citizens were convicted of being spies for the Soviet Union before they were executed, although there is much debate and controversy surrounding their trial. Tickets start at $40.50 and can be purchased through Ticketmaster. Canadian chanteuse JILL BARBER will be at Roy Thomson Hall for a concert on October 16. The Juno Award winner (received for the 2016 release The Family Album recorded with brother Matthew Barber) released her most recent album, Metaphora, earlier this year. It explores a variety of themes including female empowerment and her own experiences with both love and loss. Tickets start at $29.50 and can be purchased by calling the Roy Thomson Hall box office at 416.872.4255. It’s hard to find a group more influential to R&B music than the Temptations. “My Girl,” “Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone” and “The Way You Do the Things You Do” are just a smattering of the many hits the multiple Grammy winners and members of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame have released throughout their storied career. The Princess of Wales Theatre is presenting the musical AIN’T TOO PROUD: THE LIFE AND TIMES OF THE TEMPTATIONS from October 11 to November 17. Beginnning with their origins in Detroit, it tracks the group’s rise to massive levels of success. Tickets start at $59 and can be purchased by calling the Princess of Wales Theatre box office at 416.872.1212. Imagine the thrill of experiencing a James Bond flick while
WAINWRIGHT PHOTO BY MATTHEW WELCH
THE CANADIAN OPERA C O M PA N Y W I L L P R E S E N T T H E WO R L D P R E M I E R E O F HADRIAN, COMPOSED BY S I N G E R /S O N GW R I T E R RU F US WA I N W R I G H T, O C TO B E R 1 3 AT THE FOUR SEASONS CENTRE FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS.
its stunning score comes from a full symphony orchestra. Well, you can do just that at the Sony Centre for the Performing Arts on October 11 and 12. CASINO ROYALE, starring Daniel Craig, will be screened while a live orchestra performs the score in sync with the film. Tickets start at $55 and can be purchased by calling the Sony Centre for the Performing Arts box office at 1.855.872.7669. Fans of retro rockers SIMPLE MINDS can check the band out when they visit the Sony Centre for a concert on September 30. Likely best known for the smash hit, “Don’t You (Forget About Me),” the band released its eighteenth studio album, Walk Between Worlds, earlier this year. Tickets start at $62.54 and can be purchased through the box office. At the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts, the Canadian Opera Company will present the world premiere of HADRIAN in October. It opens October 13 and continues October 17, 19, 21, 23, 25 and 27. The show is composed by singer/songwriter Rufus Wainwright with the libretto by Daniel MacIvor, and stars Thomas Hampson as the eponymous Hadrian with Karita Mattila as Plotina. Call 416.363.8231 to purchase tickets. At the Richmond Hill Centre for the Performing Arts, multiple Juno winner SERENA RYDER comes for a performance on October 20. The talented singer and musician has scored multiple hits including the singles “Stompa” and “What I Wouldn’t Do.” Last year, she released her sixth studio album Utopia. Tickets cost $58 and can be purchased by calling the Richmond Hill Centre for the Performing Arts box office at 905.787.8811. For those who love a good laugh, comedian JEREMY HOTZ makes a stop at the Richmond Hill venue on October 26 for a night of stand up. He’s known for his observational comedy and has appeared at Just for Laughs in Montreal and was also a staff writer on The Jon Stewart Show. Tickets cost $55. The name KARDINAL OFFISHALL is synonymous with Canadian hip-hop. He burst onto the scene with the album Eye & I in 1997 and has remained a force in this country ever since. A multiple Juno winner who many will know for his hits including “Dangerous” and “Husslin,” the Toronto native has a concert on October 4 at the Flato Markham Theatre. He will be joined by special guest Alx Veliz, the hitmaker behind the infectious song “Dancing Kizomba.” Tickets cost $15 to $69 and can be purchased by calling the Flato Markham Theatre box office at 905.305.7469. Another prolific and storied Canadian act, THE COWBOY JUNKIES, have a concert at the Markham theatre on October 19. The band has been performing for more than 30 years and are likely best known for their atmospheric single “Sweet Jane” as well as other tracks including “Anniversary Song” and “Miles from Our Home.” The band released their sixteenth studio album All That Reckoning earlier this year. Tickets cost $15- to $65.
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LUXE MAGAZINE • AUTUMN 2 018
71
COMMENT #MEtoo
A Y E A R I N A H A S H TAG by A N N E T. D O N A H U E TO SAY THAT 2018 CHANGED THINGS would be an understatement. Over
And, where so much of what we see on social media can feel fickle
the last year, the #MeToo movement became the catalyst for social
or temporary, #MeToo only gained more and more traction. New Year’s
change spurred on by conversations about consent, harassment, assault,
Day brought the launch of Time’s Up, an organization that insists on
and rape culture. Thanks to the voices of celebrities speaking out about
fair and dignified work for women and includes a legal defense fund.
their own experiences at the hands of predators (in Hollywood and
At the Golden Globe Awards, actresses wore black in solidarity with the
elsewhere), the movement continues to gather strength. The thing is,
movement. Plus, survivors continue to share their stories which keep
to maintain its trajectory over the next few years, it’s on all of us to be
the lines of communication open and remind all of us of rape culture’s
mindful about the way we talk about it.
prevalence. #MeToo isn’t simply some trend.
On an October afternoon in 2017, The New York Times dropped a bomb-
But, that isn’t to say we don’t have a long way to go. In January, Babe.
shell and confirmed what had long been an open secret: Harvey Wein-
net published a piece from the perspective of Grace, a woman who’d
stein was a sexual predator (alleged) who abused his power fervently.
chosen to remain anonymous after going on a date with Aziz Ansari. In
He harassed and assaulted women in the entertainment industry and
it, she alleged that he continued to engage her sexually despite her lack of consent, and as a result, the piece was divi-
beyond, and while many were aware of it, his persona and position eclipsed all and everything and made him (temporarily) untouchable. But the publication of The Times piece brought Weinstein back down to earth. From his ashes rose the voices of women like Ashley Judd and Alyssa Milano, who brought #MeToo to the mainstream and popularized the 2006 move-
SOCIAL MEDIA CAN FEEL FICKLE OR TEMPORARY, #METOO ONLY GAINED MORE AND MORE TRACTION.
ment spearheaded by activist Tarana Burke. Twitter quickly became a valuable tool. Both in terms of sharing information, and creating a sense of inclusivity. The same day the Weinstein
72
sive. To many readers, it seemed like a story of a “bad date,” while to others, it was indicative of a culture that still doesn’t get that “yes means yes.” The thing is, the behaviour Grace describes is a definite violation. However, as outlets like Jezebel pointed out, Babe.net handled it poorly, making the piece seem like a sensationalist exploit instead of a platform for conversations about imbalance
of power, the unspoken pressure on young women to perform sexually, and why “dates” like these have become so normalized.
news broke, I used it to ask followers who their own Harvey Weinsteins
Or, on the opposite end of the spectrum, we seem to have granted a pass to
were and used my own sexual harassment story as a jumping off point.
some men whose histories boast legacies of abuse and assault. Johnny Depp,
Shockingly (or not), the responses flooded in and I was bombarded with
despite domestic abuse allegations, appears in the upcoming Fantastic Beasts
thousands of stories from women and men who’d been targeted by
film, with even JK Rowling rushing to his defense. He’s also starring in an
sexual predators. Each was heartbreaking and difficult to read, but there
upcoming Tarantino feature. Woody Allen continues to work alongside stars
was also purpose: rape culture is everywhere, and it doesn’t discriminate.
who defend him, and for some reason reporters are still talking to Roman
Sharing our stories is a way to reclaim the power that’s been taken, which
Polanski; in general, but also about #MeToo. Even this summer, Henry Cavill
I think we’ve known for a while. The thing is, it can be terrifying to take a
admitted that he’s afraid to flirt with women in the wake of the movement
step forward without the promise of change on the horizon. But with the
because he doesn’t want to be accused of being a “rapist.” Which begs the
fall of Harvey Weinstein, it finally seemed possible for sexual offenders to
question: what exactly is his idea of flirting? (He has since apologized.)
be called out and dealt with accordingly. Names like Kevin Spacey, Oliver
The thing is, it’s easy to think that because #MeToo has done a lot, it
Stone, Ben Affleck, Casey Affleck, James Toback, Matt Lauer, Jeremy Piven,
has done it all. But this isn’t the case. The system that brought us here has
Brett Ratner, Louis CK, and James Franco (plus dozens more) were soon
been centuries in the making and is built on the foundation of inequa-
synonymous with the assault and harassment allegations against them,
lity and the abuse of power; which is what rape culture is. So, we need to
and it was incredible: finally, women and men were being listened to, and,
keep going, and keep doing it loudly. We need to continue sharing our
for what seemed like the first time, there would be consequences. Spacey
stories. We need to continue giving platforms to those who’ve chosen to
was written off House of Cards, was replaced by Christopher Plummer in All
speak out, and we need to name and cancel the predators who leeched
the Money in the World, and is under criminal investigation. Casey Affleck
off inciting fear as a way of acquiring power. The stories that inducted
opted out of presenting the Best Actress Oscar. James Franco was snubbed
us into the #MeToo movement seem endless. So, here’s hoping that over
for most of awards season. Matt Lauer is no longer employed by NBC.
the next year we can put a stop to there being any more to tell.
LUXE MAGAZINE • AUTUMN 2 018
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COR
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CRAIG PETERS
Vodka Maker, Maverick Distillery Oakville, Ontario. Est.2009
DISTILLED 5 TIMES FILTERED 5 DAYS GLUTEN-FREE ONTARIO HOMEGROWN HANDCRAFTED IN OAKVILLE
“Uber Smooth Vodka ... Highly Recommend” Vic Harradine, Wine Current
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