LUXE Magazine Canada Autumn 2021

LUXURY. LIVING. DEFINED.

DECORATING

A warm and inviting country retreat with charm to spare

RECIPES

Autumn-inspired dishes by Chef Lynn Crawford & Chef Lora Kirk

Dream KITCHENS

PLUS

Colin & Justin share their favourite kitchen renos, luxury footwear designer Ron White shows off his new handbags and travel ideas to start planning now.

Reenter the world with design

Awake your sense of

There’s only one Caribbean island that can send you up a volcano, down to a shipwreck, and across a rainforest, all in the same day. Only one that’s home to people as warm as its weather. And now, it’s easier than ever to get there, thanks to seasonal direct flights from Toronto with Air Canada starting in November and daily direct, nonstop flights from Miami with American Airlines.

Start planning at WarmerInStKitts.com

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AUTUMN 2021

LUXURY. LIVING. DEFINED.

AUTUMN 2021

Publisher

ORIANA MANTELLO

Editor-in-Chief

HOLLY CRAWFORD

Art Director

JASON KANG

Contributing Writers

CHRISTIAN DARE, REBECCA DUMAIS, JOSEPHINE MATYAS, COLIN

MCALLISTER, MICHAEL PINKUS, BARBARA RAMSAY ORR, JUSTIN RYAN

O MEDIA GROUP

President

ORIANA MANTELLO

Sales Consultant

GRANT WELLS

Accountant

EMERSON & ASSOCIATES INC.

CONTACT US

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LUXE Magazine, 644 Millway Avenue, Unit A, Concord, Ontario L4K 4H4

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LUXE Magazine is published quarterly and delivered to select homes in Canada. 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.

TIME FOR THANKS

AUTUMN HAS ALWAYS been my favourite time of year. It’s our most colourful season, a fleeting period of days combining brilliant sunshine with brisk, cool air. It’s the time of year when we typically refresh our wardrobes, add more accessories, and start thinking about the holiday entertaining season to come. It probably doesn’t hurt that I have an October birthday, often meaning a Thanksgiving weekend that includes cake.

This autumn is one unlike any other. As we put the final touches on this issue, many kids are headed back for a normal school day for the first time in several months. Here in the Toronto area, we’ve had what feels like a brief summer that included being able to dine at a restaurant, go shopping, and visit the hair salon; formerly benign activities now considered a joyous priviledge, tempered by the reminder of a remaining health risk.

This autumn, as a community and a country we seem to be on the precipice of “normal life” with the looming danger of a global pandemic not quite yet behind us. More than ever, we need to remind ourselves we have much to be thankful for—not the least of which good health—as we slowly find our way in what has become our new reality.

So, will this year’s Thanksgiving celebration be a large family affair? Unfortunately, for many of us that remains an unknown.

What I know, is that I look forward to enjoying the last days of warming sunshine before we trudge into another Canadian winter— even if they are to partake in socially distanced outings. I look forward to gathering with family and friends over a traditional turkey feast. I look forward to planning a winter holiday. I look forward to the day that I can check my lipstick instead of my mask when I leave the house. I may not have all of these things this Thanksgiving, but I will be thankful for all that I do have.

Thank-you for picking up this issue of LUXE. Enjoy.

HOLLY CRAWFORD, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF holly@luxemagcanada.com

TOGETHER AGAIN

IT IS WONDERFUL to finally emerge from the solitude that we all felt over the last 18 months.

Many of us are holding our breath as we wait to see what the new world will be, while trying to re- connect with friends and family. We are fine tuning our lives in order to accommodate change.

Most of us who travel are staying local yet keeping an eye out for wonderful destinations when it will be once again pleasurable to travel. Now is the time to plan. Now is the time to celebrate everything that life has to offer. Funny how we take things for granted.

Let’s go out and enjoy outdoor events and festivals that we all missed (of course with a mask!). Let’s go out to dine—enough hovering over a stove.

During a time of great change and challenge, we, at LUXE magazine have much to celebrate! We have our creative juices flowing and have many exciting plans in the year to come.

We have had some changes at LUXE magazine, for the better, and are ready to continue with fabulous editions to delight you. Our informative pages will keep you updated on glamourous trends, meant to inspire.

So let’s make the best of these changing times, knowing that in years to come, we’ll have great stories to tell!

Stay safe!

ORIANA MANTELLO, PUBLISHER oriana@luxemagcanada.com

We know you won’t be eliminating track pants from your wardrobe, but you can elevate your favourite staple with the Tailored Tracksuit by Toronto’s Garrison Bespoke, a hybrid between track pants and a tailored suit. $895, available at Garrison Bespoke; garrisontailoring.com

Goods

Part of the Lucky Move Collection by Messika, this diamond pave, 18kt yellow gold and lapis lazuli pendant features three suspended diamonds that sparkle with every move. $7,050, available at select Birks locations; maisonbirks.com

From Maison Tess, a Canadian premium line of sustainable, luxury bedding, these rich “Midnight Navy” linens are a perfect way to embrace the deeper tones of fall and winter in your home. Washed Linen Set includes one fitted sheet, two pillow cases and one duvet cover, $570; maisontess.com

INDIGO

EMBRACE THIS RICH, INKY HUE FOR A DEEPER DIVE INTO STYLE THIS SEASON.

David Yurman’s newest take on his classic Renaissance bracelet. Until November 1, 2021, 100 per cent of net profits from “Indigo” and “Sand” Renaissance aluminum bracelets will be donated to the Unity Fund, benefitting the Robin Hood Foundation’s efforts to fight poverty in New York City, the brand’s hometown. David Yurman Renaissance Bracelet in Aluminum, $525, available at select David Yurman boutiques and davidyurman.com

A plush, ladylike bag from the Dior Fall/Winter 2021-22 Collection. “Dior Caro” chain bag in navy velvet Cannage embroidery with a CD twist lock; dior.com

A mix of denim and navy is dreamy in this trompe l’oeil peacoat with navy wool felt panels and denim cocoon sleeves. Raw edge hems and tobacco top stitching elevate the details in these denim trousers. Hybrid Peacoat, $3,960 and Boyfriend Denim, $850, both by Alexander McQueen; alexandermcqueen.com

Rolex Datejust 36, new 2021 model with a bright blue, fluted motif dial, bracelet in Oystersteel and white gold. MSRP $9,800; rolex.com for retailers.

Occasional chair in “Danny” navy fabric with exposed antique brass iron legs. $1,300, available at Zilli Home; zillihome.com

THE GOODS

BEAUTY

Beautycounter products meet strict safety standards, contain no heavy metals and follow the company’s Blueprint for Clean, 12 safety standards for all formulas. Their latest lash product, Think Big Mascara is creamy and buildable offering full and lifted lashes. It’s also nourishing with tripeptide and uses no carbon black. $35, beautycounter.com/en-ca

For effortless colour on your lids, Beautycounter’s Lid Glow Cream Shadows are made with responsibly sourced mica and contain no mineral oil or preservatives that can be eye irritants. Cucumber and chamomile extract help soothe and hydrate delicate eyelids, and 10 lovely shades are easy to apply with the doe foot brush, $30, beautycounter. com/en.ca

Better for You

OUR TOP PICKS FOR CLEAN, EYE-HEALTHY COSMETICS SO YOU CAN HAVE DRAMATIC LASHES WITHOUT THE SCARY INGREDIENTS.

If you’ve become a devotee of eye masks (and who hasn’t?) this innovative approach from Canadian-brand Consonant eliminates the waste element involved. Pair these medicalgrade silicone eye masks with your favourite eye serum to create your own custom eye mask. They come with a jelly bag for storage, just wash with a gentle cleanser and store until their next use.

Consonant Reusable Silicone Eye Mask, $20, consonantskincare.com

We suggest pairing your eye masks with Consonant Hydraextreme, a clinicallyproven serum containing Cassia Angustifolia, an ingredient that holds 1000-times its weight in water to provide profound hydration for 24 hours. $149/30mL, consonantskincare.com

Kjaer Weis is leading the movement in luxury organic makeup, created by Danish-born, New York-based makeup artist Kirsten Kjaer Weis. Every item is free of parabens, silicones, petrochemical emulsifiers and synthetic fragrances. You can find a full list of ingredients used in each product on their website. Their best-selling Lengthening Mascara is nourishing, will not clump and certified organic. In Canada, Kjaer Weis is available at The Detox Market, $40; thedetoxmarket.ca

Eye Shadow Quadrant in “Wanderer” is a perfect neutral palette and is certified natural, $48. Shown in Red Edition Compact refillable case, $6; thedetoxmarket.ca

Westman Atelier is the brand of professional makeup artist Gucci Westman, known for her editorial work for magazines and runway shows for major fashion houses. This line of luxury clean beauty is as beautifully presented as it is formulated. Eye Love You mascara is a 96 per cent natural origins formula packaged in a stunning gold tube, made without parabens, formaldehyde, carbon black or silicones. It has a notably shorter ingredients list than most luxury mascaras—cutting out known allergens and focusing on a proven, refined and highly edited list of ‘plants first’ performance ingredients and natural emulsifiers. $76, available at Holt Renfrew; holtrenfrew.com

Difficult to find in the clean beauty landscape is a liquid liner that is free of carbon black. Canadian clean beauty brand Ilia launches their first ever classic black liquid liner with a flexible, finely pointed tip. $28, iliabeauty.com

Westman Atelier Eye Pods feature a velvety cream-powder formulation designed for comfort, blendability, and rich colour payoff. Innovative magnetic pods snap together or apart for easy portability, each edited set of three pods include a light, dark and medium shade for your own custom blending. $118, available at Holt Renfrew, holtrenfew.com

THE GOODSDÉCOR: THE KITCHEN

THE KITCHEN ISN’T JUST THE HEART, BUT THE HUB, OF OUR HOMES. HERE ARE A FEW OF THE UPGRADES WE’RE LOVING TO MAKE IT CHICER AND SMARTER.

Cook like the Pros

FOR HOME COOKS who want to combine their passion for food with their appreciation for innovation, Signature Kitchen Suite offers a line of ground-breaking luxury appliances. The 48-inch Dual-Fuel Pro Range is the industry’s only offering with built-in sous vide on the cooktop along with induction and gas burners, making it one of the most versatile ranges ever built. Built-in sous vide will let you create the ultimate in restaurant-style cooking while two induction zones offer precise temperature control and can be combined to accommodate large cookware. Two ultra-high burners offer better searing and quick stir-frying and two ultra-low burners maintain temperatures as low as 100 degrees for delicate sauces and simmering. A 30-inch convection oven is mated with an 18-inch steam oven that combines steam and convection cooking for gourmet results every time: convection ensures quick and even cooking while steam helps preserve texture, appearance and taste. Signature Kitchen Suite is an innovative and ground-breaking appliance line created and developed by a team with more than 600 years combined experience and leadership in the luxury appliance market. signaturekitchensuite.com

CLASSIC TERRAZZOINSPIRED TILE

INSPIRED BY the look of terrazzo, these ceramic tiles are part of the Pietra di Gre collection, an interpretation of classic Ceppo di Gre, a wellknown Italian breccia. The warm gray tones lend these tiles to a modern or contemporary interior and are available in sizes including 12-inch by 24-inch, 24-inch by 24-inch, large-scale 24-inch by 48-inch and 24-inch by 24-inch mosaic. Available at Signature by Shelley Alexanian; signaturebyshelley.ca

EVENSMARTER W A RET

IF YOU ARE a devotee of smart home and voice-assisted devices, the next must-have in the kitchen is a smart faucet. The Tone kitchen faucet by Kohler features Kohler Konnect, an app that allows you to monitor water usage and be notified of unusual water flow and works with Amazon Alexa, Google Home and the Apple Home Kit. Use the voice activated technology to turn the faucet on or off, pour specific amounts of water, or fill pre-set measurements, all hands-free. The Tone also includes Kohler’s state-of-the-art motion-sensing technology, offering touchless on and off activation with the wave of a hand. This collection also offers users a choice of water sprays to toggle between as needed: Sweep, a strong blade of water ideal for cleaning dishes as well as the sink; an aerated flow for speedy filling of pots and pitchers; and Boost, to increase the flow by 30 per cent.

Shown in matte black with modern brass, $2,049; kohler.ca

MANY OF YOU already have one of these iconic countertop appliances in your kitchen. Whether it’s your stirring, mixing and whipping workhorse or merely a decorative accent (with so many colour choices), it’s become a standard appliance in many of our kitchens. Focusing the spotlight on highly textural, premium design, KitchenAid recently revealed its most artful appliance to date, the limited edition stand mixer: Light & Shadow. Featuring sand tones and a textural, matte finish bowl, this new iteration looks like a perfect complement to current kitchen design trends. If you’ve recently updated to matte black fixtures, this is the mixer for you. Light & Shadow is available with a studded black ceramic bowl, sold exclusively with the limited-edition stand mixer, $1,000; kitchenaid.ca and select retailers.

Stunning flooring is our Signature

At Signature you’ll find one of the widest selections of exceptional hardwood flooring in a variety of species and available in different width and plank sizes. From traditional to the most modern, you are sure to find stunning hardwood flooring that will make your home stand out. All offered with expert advice, service and installation.

ACHIEVE a seamless look in your kitchen with Monogram Appliances customizable, panel ready appliances. Large windows and substantial knobs add a designer touch, and they can be modified to match any cabinetry. Shown: Monogram 30-inch Fully Integrated Customizable Glass Door Refrigerator and Monogram Panel Ready Wine Chiller. monogram.ca

HIDDEN APPLIANCES Home

THIS KITCHEN IS A WINNER

CONGRATULATIONS to Vancouver-based Madeleine Design Group and principal designer Madeleine Sloback for taking first place in the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) Design & Industry Awards for Best Contemporary Kitchen (Large). The industry association hands out awards each year to design professionals whose work is elevating kitchen and bath design, building, remodeling and outdoor living. This kitchen was part of a large-scale reno and design, and materials were selected to tie the room to the rest of the Vancouver home. A door to a hidden prep area and the appliances are hidden behind soft-to-the-touch fingerprint-resistant Italian laminate panels in a black matte finish, while Italian marble covers the backsplash wall. The massive island is also Italian marble, and adjacent to the main kitchen: a full self-serve coffee bar with built-in coffee machine, sink and faucet with instant hot water.

UNIQUE PLATING

FOR A LAYER of texture and the addition of a natural element in the kitchen, these “Dew” plates are ideal. Made from stones pulled from an Indonesian riverbed, each plate is a unique addition to your tabletop. They are food safe, so you can use them as serving or dining pieces, but also make lovely display objects. Large plate, $30 each; eq3.com

Keep Food Fresher with Technology

WE ALL want to create less waste and technology from Bosch aims to help us eliminate food waste in the kitchen. The refrigerator’s “VitaFreshPro” system automatically balances both the temperature and humidity based on the food setting you select. From produce to meats and cheese, the preprogrammed settings in VitaFresh drawers create the optimal environment for storage. bosch-home.ca

J0724 Grigio Bromo

Layers of LUXURY

HOW TO ACHIEVE A SOPHISTICATED KITCHEN SCHEME, NO MATTER YOUR STYLE

by COLIN MCALLISTER + JUSTIN RYAN

Get the Look

CABINET PAINT COLOUR: Benjamin Moore Gentleman’s Gray (2062-20); benjaminmoore.com

COUNTERTOPS: Clamshell (4130) from the Caesarstone Classico Collection; caesarstone.ca

PENDANT LIGHTING: Fairview Traditional Pendant from Rejuvenation; rejuvenation.com

THROUGHOUT many countries and across multiple continents, we’ve retooled numerous kitchens. Yes indeed, from small-scale renovations, to full throttle, high impact revisions, we’ve delivered food prep zone alchemy, at client behest, over and over again. And the aspect, in common, that pulls each scheme together? The layering of luxury, at every conceivable turn. Take this kitchen, birthed by us as part of a complete log cabin glow up in beautiful Muskoka, Ontario. As we found the space, it was admittedly short on style and function, but it positively buoyed with potential. So, we wielded the demo ball, and set to work…

POLISHED + PAINTED

To kick things off, we conspired a walk-around island, loaded with extra storage, which we subsequently illuminated with huge nickel pendants and covered with creamy quartz countertops. A statement faucet elicits a professional feel, whilst a whisper quiet dishwasher assures negligible noise bleed into the connecting living area.

Chasing upscale appliances, we specified a concealed fridge and matching freezer which we integrated into solid wood, gray painted cabinetry. The high-end machines were a wise choice; not only are they manufactured ‘panel ready’ for doors to be attached (invisibility rules in our world) they boast surprisingly generous space for food cooling and freezing.

With a project such as this, confident detailing and complimentary finishes provide whispered sophistication. The gray lines of the cabinetry, for example, and the low sheen finish of the lobster washing faucet, balance our vision, as played against the warm toffee notes of the thick, pine logs—and indeed the cool notes of the oak floor— to deliver rich schematic contrast.

MODERN + RUSTIC

As the cottage country market continues to grow, we relish every chance we get to polish the diamonds in the rough that, to be honest, and rarer on the ground than ever before. It’s fair to say pretty much everything, these days, is snapped up and renovated before so much as gracing the open market.

This project is underpinned by incredible lighting, which barrels in via large scale fenestration (created by euro + glasshaus; evw.ca) whose black perimeters are like frames around elegant art work, in this case the vistas so deftly painted by Mother Nature.

The prevailing mood here is sophistication, with flat slab cabinet doors delivering uncomplicated lines. Ceilings, clad in “penny groove” Western Red Cedar, return visible warmth as played against the cooler notes of quartz counters, whilst a midtoned oak floor provides a further layer of perceived and literal warmth.

Composing our projects, we enjoy sequencing rough with smooth, and, to this end, the hand-built dining bench (created by Toronto-based artisanal furniture maker Mark Livingston of Rebarn; rebarn.ca) and the store-bought dining table provide balance as played against bone toned walls and the soft curves of the dining chairs.

Get the Look

COUNTERTOPS: Cement (3040) from the Caesarstone Classico Collection; caesarstone.ca

DINING CHAIRS: Madeleine side chairs from Restoration Hardware; restorationhardware.com

Breville’s Black Stainless Steel range would work particularly well as slick counterscaping in a kitchen like this. Solidly dependable, the collection’s matte finish is thoroughly sophisticated; breville.com

bold, beautiful 3

KITCHENS

IF YOU WANT YOUR KITCHEN TO MAKE A STATEMENT, YOU’LL LOVE THESE STRIKING DESIGNS by HOLLY CRAWFORD

THE KITCHEN has always been the heart of our homes, but many of us have spent more time at home—and in our kitchens—in the past year than we ever thought we might. What once was a cooking and gathering space, is now as often used as a workplace, classroom and video call stage. What kind of kitchen are we looking for now? The answer to that question is as varied as are homeowners. Here are three distinctly different kitchens, each with their own unique style and appeal. The one thing they have in common? Not a single one is white.

A RICH GREEN SHADE

One of the movements in kitchen design has been a return to colour, and certainly a return to colour on cabinetry. If you love a bold shade in your home, this may be the kitchen for you.

Designed by West of Main for Eq Homes, this kitchen scheme began with the rich green cabinet colour: Essex Green by Benjamin Moore. “Our goal was to create a boutique-style kitchen that blended traditional as well as modern elements together. We started by selecting a deep warm green cabinet colour and everything fell into place from there,” says Sascha LaFleur, West of Main co-founder and principal designer. West of Main is an award-wining, Ottawa-based design firm providing complete residential and commercial design services.

With plenty of storage space provided by a walk-in pantry, the plan could afford to eliminate upper cabinets on the stove wall, creating the space for an impactful feature, and another emerging element of kitchen design: the feature range hood. “We created a feature wall by including a 60-inch hood, mixing white subway tile and marble backsplashes, and added some decorative wall sconces for a touch of glam,” says LaFleur.

To balance the side of the kitchen without upper cabinets, the wall where the refrigerator resides was completely paneled for a seamless appearance, accomplished beautifully with floor-toceiling cabinetry.

A mix of materials highlight the deep green cabinets even further. “To break off the deep cabinet colour, we designed some thin, black metal glass doors for one of the cabinets and used the light wood finish found on the island and hood fan on the interior to create contrast,” she says. “We added glassfront cabinets to break off the weight of a full, closed look cabinet wall. The glass allows for the interior melamine wood to tie into the wood on the island.”

The ideal accompaniment to the green hue, brass finishes are showcased in the faucets, knobs and lighting. Making a statement above the island is a pair of geometric Morris Lanterns by West of Main in brass. “The silhouette perfectly blends the traditional and modern details we had created within the kitchen,” LaFleur says. “Although oversized, the pendants don’t disrupt the look of the kitchen since they are mostly glass, which allows them to cast beautiful mood lighting.”

A walk-in pantry adjacent to the kitchen offers lots of extra storage.

The 60-inch range hood is a feature in the kitchen, flanked by a pair of goldtoned sconces.

A MODERN STATEMENT

FOR THIS HOMEOWNER, the kitchen needed to make an exquisite impression as the backdrop to the main living area, combined with incredible function to satisfy a love of cooking and entertaining. Gwen Krieger and Mary Jane Ridley of Blue Hat Studio worked on the project from its inception. Blue Hat Studio has been transforming interiors for more than 35 years. Along with architectural firm Red Studio, they were able to maximize the footprint of the kitchen to make the space everything the homeowner dreamed of.

The choice of black on black finishes is certainly statement-making, but Krieger approached the colour choice like a wardrobe staple; you can never go wrong with a little black dress. “The homeowners really liked the idea of a dark kitchen, a black kitchen. They were really open, and we worked with The Scavolini Store, Toronto to distill their ideas into this completed vision,” she says. Based in Italy, Scavolini has been designing and manufacturing high-quality, innovative products for 60 years.

“The space is divided into a presentation side of the kitchen, and a prep side. You can see the presentation side from the rest of the space, but all the work and mess are kept just around the corner in the working area. This homeowner loves to cook and spend time in the kitchen, so the working area is carefully planned to give her everything she needs.”

Integrated appliances by Gaggenau are tucked sleekly into the Scavolini Liberamente cabinets (finished in NTM Indo Black by Fenix), while integrated lighting was planned to illuminate niches for display and work and highlight the texture of the backsplash (Liquorice Seta Laminam porcelain). While all of the elements may be of similar colour, they each add a layer to the design with subtle texture, including Nero Assoluto honed granite, sourced from a local supplier.

The dark Liberamente cabinets by Scavolini are a sophisticated backdrop for the dining area.

A honed granite countertop is centre stage in this sleek kitchen.

To keep the entire space seamless, the Scavolini Liberamente cabinets were installed right up to the ceiling, and remaining walls were painted out in Benjamin Moore’s Wrought Iron (2124-10). A full wall of cabinets provides the homeowner ample space to store dishware and seasonal pieces, as well as hiding pull-out drawers to tuck away her workspace at the end of the day.

To incorporate a natural element, the warmth of wood was brought into the space via the dining table. “We love the idea of a combination of black and warm wood,” says Krieger. “The table was in our concept from very early on. Because there is no separate dining room, this eatin space had to be exquisite. The island was narrowed to accommodate space for the Karl Hansen table, as well as the Wishbone chairs.” Both were sourced from Hollace Cluny.

“This kitchen is the entire width of the home, and is visible from all sides, so it had to be a show-stopper.”

ABOVE With a tone-on-tone scheme in this kitchen, the finishes were carefully selected for their subtle layers of texture.

A BOLD RANGE & BACKSPLASH

WITH A HOMEOWNER who wanted a kitchen with incredible functionality as well as enough style to be an entertaining hotspot, designer Diana Rose created bold effect with high contrast. Rose is the principal and creative director for GTA-based Diana Rose Design.

The first focus was total function and lots of hidden storage to keep this open-concept kitchen looking tidy. Inside the cabinetry reside built-in spice racks, garbage pull-outs, lazy Susans in corners and deep drawers beneath the Wolf cooktop to store pots and pans. “Integration of all details is the key in kitchens,” says Rose. “The homeowner also wanted to have a raised breakfast bar to visually hide the cooking mess on the counter level. This way when they are entertaining, the guest at the bar can still be a part of the conversation, but not a part of the cooking mess.”

The other part of the design brief was to create a visuallyappealing space where guests would want to gather, so Rose designed a “star” element that would anchor the space. “It is important to pick the element that will visually be the anchor and hold the composition together. In this case, I went with Obsidian Dark from Benjamin Moore on a custom-built range hood with chrome inserts. It also echoes the colour on the island,” says Rose.

Another statement element of the space has to be the striking quartz backsplash and countertop. The bold veining of “New York Marble” sourced from Lucent Quartz is a departure from more subdued surface choices. “High contrast in materials and colours was used multiple times throughout this kitchen to create bold effect,” Rose says.

“A combination of black and white stone, gray cabinetry against black wall sconces—even the contrast in finishes in plumbing and lighting fixtures—work together to create the finished look.”

To avoid blocking the view with upper cabinets on the sink side of the kitchen, they were eliminated altogether. Instead a stone ledge adds a textural touch, as well as a place to display small items.

To warm up the combination of black, white and gray, a warm cognac was introduced in the bar stools. “It really helped to achieve a timeless vintage vibe,” adds Rose.

Lighting is also an important aspect of this kitchen design. “We all know that parties revolve around the kitchen island,” Rose says, “this kitchen can go through a transformation with strategic lighting. The fixtures range from pendants to cabinet lights, under counter lights, wall sconces and dimmable LED pot lights. The lighting scenes, blinds and built-in speakers are controlled by a Control 4 System for easy use and flexibility to creating the desired atmosphere at any given time.”

ABOVE A custom range hood in Benjamin Moore’s Obsidian Dark with chrome accents anchors the kitchen.

BELOW The “New York Marble” quartz with its bold veining is a striking addition to this kitchen. The warm tones of the bar stools accent the cooler grays beautifully.

Easy luxury IN THE HILLS

GENEROUS, LIGHT-FILLED ROOMS AND SPECTACULAR SCENERY

GAVE INTERIOR DESIGNER KAREN COLE NATURAL INSPIRATION FOR THIS COMPLETE MAKEOVER

by BARBARA RAMSAY ORR

photography by ALEX LUKEY

THE DEFINING FEATURE of this home in the Hockley Hills is the luxury of space—generous, impressive, and light-filled, yet not cavernous. That’s thanks to the magic worked by interior designer Karen Cole, in concert with the firm of Diamond Schmitt Architects and the primary architect, Gary McCluskey. Together they created for their clients a home that is big and audacious without being cold. It is a welcoming home with artful and personal elements that make it a visual feast.

The project involved taking the original dark and horseshoe-shaped Pan-Abode home that needed modernizing and transforming it into a sleek modern gem. Nestled in low hills and trees, the home is surrounded by spectacular scenery which blends seamlessly into the interior design.

Karen Cole snapped a picture of the view from the surrounding hills at the start of the project, and it was part of her inspiration for colour and shape inside the home.

The house is a split level and because of its situation on the property, you enter on the second floor into a mud room. That was a room that was important to the owner, who wanted a sink and workspace for gardening chores and for cleaning muddy boots.

The owner’s collection of wood pieces contributed the unique mantlepiece. The glass pendant light in front of the fireplace, from AM Studio Shop, adds reflected light and colour with hand-blown pieces at various heights, visible from above and below.

Some of the cedar from the original pan abode was retained and blended with the ceiling, where the wood was whitewashed, allowing the knots to show through to add texture as well as warmth and brightness.

“We found a pebbled porcelain tile for the backsplash, and used two lovely vanities from Restoration Hardware,” Cole says. The flooring is a wood-like tile.” Sliding doors open to a gallery walkway, where you can begin to appreciate the home’s interplay of space and light.

The two show-stopper design elements are an elegant curving staircase leading to the lower floor, and the soaring fireplace.

The sinuous staircase was built by contractor Scott Murray. While substantial, it almost seems to float. “It’s very impressive to enter at the top of those stairs,” says Cole. “You are able to take in the complete space as you walk down the staircase, almost like a princess descending. When you enter that way, you understand the simple and organic unity of the rooms and their relationship with the natural world outside.”

The double-sided fireplace, designed by Diamond Schmidtt, was created by a timed pouring of layers of concrete. It soars from floor to ceiling but is pierced in places by copper-lined pockets for wood storage. The warmth of copper is repeated in several places, like the exposed exhaust pipes that are wrapped in copper, and the copper countertops in the kitchen.

“One of the challenges here was ensuring that the massive space wasn’t overwhelming. We played with

TOP RIGHT The house is full of windows. Here the dining room windows offer views of the forest and the Hockley Hills.

The tiled wall in the kitchen draws the eye upward. Tucked under the curved staircase, the kitchen offers lots of room for cooking and eat in dining. A stone slab, chosen for its quirky mix of colour proved to be too short for the counter so a copper piece was added to complete it, with a matching copper countertop on the opposite cupboards.

The master bath was created from a former hallway and is now an elegant elongated bathroom with subdued colours. From here the owners can step out to the hot tub and garden.

the heights of the ceiling, going from cathedral to cocoon—soaring and open in the 25-foot high ceilings of the main area, and lower and more intimate in the master bedroom.”

The whitewashed ceiling contributed to continuity. “The eye borrows the space from the room next door and marries everything together like one big experience,” explains Cole.

A large custom-designed sofa, with a cushion that swivels to face in different directions invites lingering.

A quiet spot in the lower-ceilinged master bedroom is the perfect place for a refurbished vintage chair and stacked mid-century modern teak bookcase. Giant pocket doors can close off the living room from the bedroom.

Cole loves kitchens and the one in this home is a visual treat. “I like to play with texture and pattern and will use them in layers to add interest.” The tiled walls, copper and stone counters, and natural wood combine with

stainless steel appliances and smooth metal curves of the pendant lights to make a visually interesting interplay.

Cole is a firm believer in using the objects and furniture that are already present. The owner had many interesting things; games tables, rugs, furniture and a collection of wooden pieces. “I believe it is important to design around the things that you have. Good design is all about living with the things you love!”

Cole felt honoured to be working with an architect of the stature of Diamond Schmitt, and to have great rapport with the homeowners. “We were kindred spirits,” Cole explains, “very like-minded. They were amazing to work with and we formed a friendly creative partnership.”

“I would describe the feel of this home as liveable luxury,” says Cole. “It has a very easy comfort, but the luxury comes from the generous space, the quiet and a sense of peace. And the view doesn’t hurt.”

ABOVE The lower ceiling and subdued colour scheme creates a calm oasis in the master bedroom.

Blue paint on doors and trim is a warm blue, Blue Note (2129-30), by Benjamin Moore.

“ I BELIEVE IT IS IMPORTANT TO DESIGN AROUND THE THINGS THAT YOU HAVE. GOOD DESIGN IS ALL ABOUT LIVING WITH THE THINGS YOU LOVE!”—KAREN COLE

Subtle natural colours combined with natural wood maintain the connection with nature.

Style

Creative CASHMERE

UPDATE THIS SEASON’S must-have scarf with this artful collab by newly launched Soi and Others and Canadian visual artist Rundi Phelan. The brand uses the highest quality cashmere to craft contemporary, gender-neutral pieces that are meant to last a lifetime. The line’s own creations are anchored by creative collaborations with local and international artists. Phelan’s blend of abstract florals with vintage and edgy moments will appear in the debut FW collection, and the SS22 collection. Soi and Others was created by Alison Currie, who also founded The Cashmere Shop, a fixture in Yorkville. With more than 20 years experience in the cashmere industry, Currie is hands-on with everything from sourcing and production in Mongolia to design and sales in Canada. soiandothers.com

KEEP TIME LIKE BOND

AFTER DELAYS due to Covid-19, the 25th official James Bond film, No Time To Die, will be released in theatres on October 8, 2021. Omega unveiled the new limited-edition timepiece worn by Daniel Craig’s Bond in the film, the Seamaster Diver 300M 007 Edition. The 42 mm timepiece has been crafted from strong and lightweight Grade 2 titanium, used for the case and titanium mesh bracelet. Inside, it is driven by the Omega Co-Axial Master Chronometer Calibre 8806, which has achieved the industry’s highest standards of precision, chronometric performance and magnetic resistance. For retailers, omegawatches.com

TREAT YOUR HANDS TO SERUM-IN-CREAM

L’OCCITANE brings its anti-aging skincare expertise to a brand-new category with new Youth Hand Cream Serum-in-Cream. The hand treatment does one better than typical cream, combining the hydrating and nourishing properties of shea butter with the anti-aging properties of the immortelle flower to create a completely unique serum-in-cream. Crafted specifically to nourish and protect hands from visible signs of aging, the shea butter and immortelle essential oil cream is suited for all skin types and will leave your hands feeling velvety smooth. loccitane.com

The Latest from Iconic LA MER

ONE OF THE icons of the skincare world, La Mer recently introduced their first emulsion, a feather-light hydrator containing nutrient-rich kelp and soy. The fluid, fast absorbing formula of The Hydrating Infused Emulsion penetrates skin deeply to completely banish dry skin. The new formula contains La Mer’s innovative “Miracle Broth”, created by a unique fermentation process, this sea-sourced ingredient visibly soothes skin. cremedelamer.ca

WITH BACK to work, school and schedules many of us are looking for a wardrobe refresh. Created using sustainable and ethical practices, Canadian designer Elisa C Rossow’s designs transcend time and trends, making her pieces perfect to add to your closet staples. Effortless, luxurious cuts and fabrics—all made and cut in Montreal—give you an opportunity to escape seasonality and inspire creativity for an effortless look. Designed in black and white, these stylishly simple pieces make for easy layering and effortless mornings. Shown: Snowbird Long Coat and Vesper Pants; elisa-c-rossow.com

RON WHITE

CANADIAN LUXURY FOOTWEAR DESIGNER RON WHITE AND HIS EPONYMOUS BRAND JUST ADDED HANDBAGS TO THE COLLECTION

by CHRISTIAN DARE

IF YOU ASK any fashion editor, stylist or fashion enthusiast to name a Canadian shoe designer, one name always rises to the top: Ron White. The brand has become synonymous with fashion forward shoes (that are also comfortable) with a cult-like celebrity following. But what about the perfect bag to match those shoes?

Not to worry, Ron White Shoes just announced the launch of the brand’s first made-in-Italy handbag collection for the fall 2021 season. Luxurious materials and unique hardware meet structured and unstructured silhouettes for this inaugural collection that complement White’s women’s shoes and boots for the fall. But before we cover the latest from Ron White, let’s take it back to where it all began…

In 1993, White first founded his footwear business with a comfort-focused, multi-brand retail store in Toronto called The Foot Shoppe. The concept was very successful and grew to several locations. By 2006, White had set his sights on launching his own brand of stores bearing the Ron White name. The new namesake stores would sell to a younger, more fashion-forward shopper. The new stores would also carry a collection of Ron White shoes. The first shoe collection was inspired by his customers, merging style with comfort, and that is how the signature “All Day Heels” were created. His new signature shoe design utilized cutting-edge comfort technology, and the Ron White brand was born.

Autumn/Winter 2021 is the first season Ron White has offered handbags to go along with his renowned footwear.

Q&A

What made you first decide to design shoes?

RW: I went to school at Sheridan College in Oakville for Business Retail Management mixed with Fashion—my dream back then was to move the New York, work in the clothing side of the business and take over Saks. What I thought at the time was going to be a year of gaining experience in the world of footwear became my passion… and close to 30 years later, here I am.

If you had to describe the Ron White DNA that goes across all collections in a few words, what would it be?

RW: Elegant. Sophisticated. Timeless. Chic. Comfortable.

This signature Ron White DNA is one of the key reasons the brand has gained such a celebrity following, including leading ladies Céline Dion, Kim Cattrall and Katie Couric. Since White launched his men’s collection, it has also attracted leading men like Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Rob Lowe and Matt Damon. But does White have a favourite celebrity to dress? We asked.

I know you’ve dressed many celebs in your shoes, and I’m sure you have enjoyed working with them all, but any favourites?

RW: Having the likes of Kate Middleton and Celine Dion get into my shoes each time was a huge thrill. Vanessa Williams has become a dear friend and I consider her my muse. I now design with her in mind, and all the fabulous things she needs in her hectic lifestyle ranging from “chic casual” to “red carpet fabulous!”

Having the likes of Kate Middleton and Celine Dion get into my shoes each time was a huge thrill. Vanessa Williams has become a dear friend and I consider her my muse.”—RON WHITE

This fall marks another milestone for the Ron White shoe brand, the launch of a handbag collection. While the launch of a handbag collection may seem like an obvious addition for a shoe brand, White didn’t want to rush the process; he wanted to wait for the best time to launch the ideal bags to complement the brand. And we think he hit the mark. The collection features luxurious materials, unique hardware and a perfect balance of structured and unstructured silhouettes. The collection of handmade bags is the epitome of relaxed everyday luxury.

Where did you draw inspiration for your new handbag collection?

RW: When designing my handbag collection, I drew inspiration from my leading ladies. I like to ask my top clients what they dream and wish for in future collections and bring that into my design process. In the case of handbags, the main feedback was around functionality. They asked me for handbags with plenty of sections and pockets, secure top closures and light colour linings to make all things inside easy to find and get to. With those as the core inside, I then designed my shapes, materials and hardware around the inside; like wrapping up a present incorporating a range shapes and sizes. With manufacturing everything in my collections in Italy using true handmade craftsmanship it allows for my unique approach to become a reality.

Do you have a favourite bag in the new collection?

RW: It’s hard to pick favourites when they are all your babies… a bag that I’m very proud of that’s already become a top seller is the Eastdale (and her mid-size sister called the Easton). In addition to all the wonderful functionality inside, I made

her in quilted buttery Nappa leather. She has very unique dual functioning handle/ shoulder straps that are both made with jewellery grade chain to elevate and adorn the bag. My clients love the way the leather-bound handles slide and disappear when the longer shoulder strap is used— it’s a very unique design that also looks very chic.

Do you think women still need to follow the rule of having their shoes match their bag? Or any personal advice on how to choose the perfect handbag?

RW: In the past decade having a matching shoe and bag hasn’t really been ‘A Thing’ like it was in let’s say the 1960s and 1980s—but more recently I’ve been getting requests for this, and it’s gained popularity in fashion. For me it started in evening and special occasion, and I believe today she sees how updating your bag and shoes makes an outfit look completely brand new and that’s become a way of dressing. I’m seeing more and more focus on this in daywear, so I’ve made sure to design some really special bags in my collection that do perfectly match and complement their sister footwear in the new autumn/ winter collection.

Finally, what’s next for Ron White Shoes?

RW: As a brand and company, we’re grateful to have come through the pandemic and still be here when so many friends have not made it. Earlier this year we launched my Women’s Collection at Neiman Marcus, which as a Canadian brand was a big reason to celebrate. As we plan forward for Spring 2022, we have further U.S. expansion coming, and are in talks for a launch in the U.K. as a first step into the European market

Ron White handbags and shoes are available at the brands’ four standalone retail boutiques in Toronto and across North America at its retail partners.

Travel

Recently opened on Ibiza’s secluded northern tip, the newest Six Senses Resort is tucked into the contours of Xarraca Bay. The 116 rooms and suites include one-of-a-kind cave suites built into the cliffs, and a handful of Village Residences ideal for larger groups. A wide range of amenities and activities focused on longevity and wellness are intended to provide a meaningful getaway. The resort also has sustainability at its core, powered by its own renewable energy source and is striving towards zero waste and zero single-use plastic targets. sixsensesibiza.com

the neWly opened Four Seasons Resort and Residences Napa Valley is accepting reservations for autumn and is Napa Valley’s first and only resort set within a working winery. “Four Seasons Resort Napa Valley marks a significant milestone for our brand as we expand our California collection with the introduction of the first Four Seasons Resort within a working winery, offering an array of opportunities to elevate the guest experience through immersive programming,” says Vince Parrotta, president, Hotel Operations, Americas West, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts. The property aims to be an authentic luxury retreat, offering 85 rooms, suites and villas with winery views, private terraces and two outdoor swimming pools nestled amid the vineyard. Led by Michelin-starred Executive Chef Erik Anderson, Truss Restaurant & Bar offers modern fine fining with sweeping views of the Calistoga vineyards and Palisade Mountains. fourseasons.com

A completely reimAgined pArk HyAtt toronto is now open

after extensive restoration, the storied Park Hyatt Toronto is open to visitors once again. Long considered one of Toronto’s most iconic addresses, the hotel collaborated with designer Alessandro Munge of Studio Munge, who drew inspiration from Canada’s seasons and natural landscapes to bring the new spaces to life. The hotel also boasts a significant permanent art collection including pieces from renowned Canadian and Indigenous artists; the lobby showcases a large-scale tapestry designed by Canadian artist Shannon Bool. The restoration of Park Hyatt Toronto is part of a wider redevelopment of the site into a mixed-use destination by its owner, Oxford Properties. In addition to the 219 guest suites, the redevelopment created 65 luxury rental apartments in the heritage-designated south tower. The complex also includes 20,000 square feet of retail space over two floors. Shown: The iconic 17th-floor cocktail bar, familiar to Torontonians and international travelers alike, will be known as the Writers Room, paying homage to the history of literary legends that shared moments at Park Hyatt Toronto. parkhyatttoronto.com

The Pearle Hotel & Spa set to open

the highly anticipated The Pearle Hotel & Spa, an Autograph Collection Hotel is set to open along Burlington’s lakefront in the coming weeks. The property will include a luxury spa, indoor pool, fitness facility, large event space and two farm-driven restaurants: Isabelle Restaurant & Lounge and Earth To Table Bread Bar. thepearlehotel.ca

IF SOAKING UP THE SUN, THE SPA OR A LITTLE ADVENTURE ARE ON YOUR MIND WE HAVE SUGGESTIONS FOR YOU

by JOSEPHINE MATYAS

IF. WHEN. PERHAPS. MAYBE. These words pepper our travel plans. We may not be ready to buckle in for takeoff, but dreams are what keep travel hopes alive. Start reading, thinking, dreaming and planning, because we will be ready to go soon.

IF YOU SEEK SUNSHINE & THE BEACH

The Caribbean boasts beaches aplenty but finding just the perfect resort, on the perfect stretch of sand is the holy grail of a vacation break from a long Canadian winter. Grenada tops my list, the ideal destination for travellers in search of an authentic island full of colour, a relaxed atmosphere, interesting foods and culture. Called the “Spice Island,” Grenada’s lush, green hillsides are dotted with plots of nutmeg, mace, cinnamon and cloves; the enticing mixture of scents fills the air in the markets, the small towns and the countryside. Even its location in the Caribbean sets Grenada apart: it sits safely outside the destructive path of most hurricanes.

Many of the places to holiday are locally owned—and as a result there is family pride and attention to detail and service. At the pinnacle is Spice Island Beach Resort, a five-star boutique property set on Grand Anse Beach with every luxury possible, including many suites with private plunge pools, outdoor dining terraces and fourposter canopy beds. The property’s open-air beachfront restaurants have a view over the pretty harbour of St. George’s and the sapphire Caribbean Sea.

It’s a spot that’s perfect to just hole up for an entire stay but, for me, Grenada offers so many more ways to explore this isle of spice: browse the markets, hike through lush rainforest and snorkel the magic of the coral reefs.

When it comes to rum production, Grenada boasts the oldest working water wheel distillery in the entire Caribbean. The River Antoine Rum Distillery is more than two centuries old and still uses the original machinery to produce their 150-proof rum. The distillery is part of a 500-acre plantation and the old ways hold true— from crushing the sugar cane that has been hand-cut by machete, to stoking huge, wood-fired distillation tanks.

They don’t call this the “Spice Island” without reason—nutmeg permeates all products from yogurt to tea to cheesecake. In centuries past, nutmeg was the most valuable commodity in the world—its price fuelled by a reputation for everything from a powerful aphrodisiac to a cure for the plague. The fruit is made into jams, jellies and syrups; the lacy red mace layer is dried, ground and used to season dishes; and the hard seed is grated into sauces, baked goods and ice creams. When I stepped out of the car at the centuries-old Douglaston Spice Estate, it was the scent of roasting and ground spices that greeted me. The plantation shows visitors how bay leaves, nutmeg, cocoa beans, cloves, allspice, cinnamon and mace are grown and processed. Our next stop was the Gouyave Nut Processing Station—a step back in time where most of the jobs are still done by hand—for a tour through the stages of drying, cracking, cleaning and sorting.

Grenadian cuisine is a taste smorgasbord of British, French, African and West Indian influences. The traditional callaloo soup, nicknamed “the Rolls Royce of soups,” is made from the leafy tops of the ubiquitous dasheen plant, it’s green, thick and nutty in flavour. Most Grenadians celebrate Friday night dinner with a traditional “oil down,” a one pot mixture of breadfruit, dasheen, coconut milk and vegetables that starts as a soup, but thickens into a stew.

One-sixth of the island is preserved as parks and natural wildlife sanctuaries, including the Grand Etang Forest Reserve blanketing the green, mountainous centre of Grenada. Grand Etang is laced with hiking opportunities— everything from an easy stroll to a challenging scramble. Trails are lined by tree ferns, lemongrass, gamorea trees, paw, bamboo groves and tall Caribbean pines. The rainforest is home to iguanas, boa constrictor, Mona monkeys and armadillos—we didn’t always spot them, but we definitely heard them.

Finally, those dazzlingly blue waters. I won’t settle until I float above Grenada’s reefs, some of the most unspoiled dive sites in the Windward Islands. There are deep offshore reefs, drift dives, wall dives and shallow gentle slopes—all with a riot of colour, shapes and textures.

OPPOSITE PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: a Royal Collection pool suite at Spice Island Resort, Grenada; the entrance of the resort; Grand Anse Beach is mere steps away from all of the accommodations; outdoor dining by the pool.

If you tire of relaxing in the thermal baths and the spa, you can enjoy views of the

Heidiland mountains.

The garden pool, Grand Resort Bad Ragaz.

IF YOU WANT WELLNESS & SPA TIME

Switzerland is certainly at the top of my list when looking for a true European-style wellness getaway. More than just a spot offering spa service, most Swiss properties approach wellness with a holistic eye. It was at the award-winning Grand Resort Bad Ragaz, tucked in the Heidiland mountains of eastern Switzerland, where I found a stay that was elegant, unpretentious, and unparalleled in amenities and services.

Under the umbrella of the Grand Resort name are several five-star hotel properties, thermal spas, a wellness and medical health centre, two golf courses, a casino and seven restaurants boasting a total of five Michelin stars. Clients come from as far away as North America and Saudi Arabia to soak in the steaming resort pools, relax in their suite’s private sauna and dine on award-winning international cuisine. Easily accessed by train, guests arrive at the Bad Ragaz station and are shuttled to the resort in a Porsche.

Bad Ragaz has a long history intertwined with the discovery of its thermal waters. In the early 13th century, hunters discovered hot springs under the backdrop of the looming Pizol Alp, and soon after were bringing guests to the pools to cure their sicknesses. In 1840, the “healing waters” of the Tamina Gorge spring were piped directly to the new grand hotel. Scientists estimate waters seep through the Swiss Alps for more than a decade before spilling out at the Tamina Gorge at 36.5 degrees celsius (once pumped to the spa property it drops two degrees).

The classic-style Grand Hotel Quellenhof has just completed a “traditionmeets-modernity” renovation of the 98 suites and the addition of a new King Suite and a Family Spa for the youngest guests. It was a challenge to pull myself away from my well-appointed room in the Quellenhof (one of four hotels in the resort) to explore the spa baths and thermal waters.

However, I’d promised myself to savour the relaxation experience. I slowed down and indulged in half-days in the main thermal pool, the Helena Bath, named after a Russian princess who caught the eye of the resort’s architect. I followed the advice of the Conde Nast Traveller Spa Guide to take the waters: “walk in it, bathe in it, drink it!” and I slid into the Helena and surrendered to the power of water. Steps away, I settled into the Finnish sauna and the steam bath (with a bracing cold shower rinse between). A quiet relaxation area with loungers and warmed blankets turned out to be the perfect spot for an afternoon nap.

The emphasis at the spa, the medical centre and the eateries is on the waters as a part of the wellness regime. Professionals believe the aquatic environment is an effective way to increase circulation to the organs, treat musculoskeletal wear and tear, help in the treatment of diseases of the cardiovascular system, and act as a supplementary treatment for diabetes and obesity. Self-care is an essential part of the Swiss ethos and it’s common to take a long weekend, or a week or two, to soak in the therapeutic properties of body-temperature thermal hot waters.

Drinking the mineral-rich water is also a part of the wellness approach to regain inner balance. When I decided my water needed a little flavour boost, I found the tea station, where the sommelier steeped a small pot of Jasmine Pearls, a green tea from the Wuyi Mountains of southeast China, with a fragrant aroma suggestive of freshly-picked jasmine blossoms.

Sitting on the side of the large, shimmering pool, sipping my tea and dipping my toes in and out of the water, it had never been clearer to me: water is most definitely magic.

The resort’s seven restaurants boast a total of five Michelin stars.

Verve restaurant, Grand Hotel Quellenhof.

Helenabad, the hotel’s thermal spa.

Ultramarine, the latest purpose-built polar vessel operated by Quark Expeditions.

IF YOU CRAVE A WILD CANADIAN ADVENTURE

There are few spots that stir the soul like the Canadian North. You can hike it, bike it, drive it, paddle it, float it and even hover above in a small plane or helicopter. The northern reaches of our own home country—the colours of the spongy tundra, the pristine ice and snow, the wildlife—are all part of the unexpected beauty of such a stark landscape.

When I want to tame stress and tension, relax and restore inner balance, I point my compass north. And I am never disappointed. To take the experience to the (geographical) limit, what could be better than the steady hands of an experienced crew onboard an exploration craft like the Ultramarine, the latest purpose-built, polar vessel operated by Quark Expeditions?

With two twin-engine helicopters and 20 quick-landing Zodiacs, Ultramarine is perfectly suited as home base to Canada’s Remote Arctic expedition, a 12-day voyage along the Northwest Passage to Nunavut’s remote Ellesmere Island and the uninhabited Axel Heiberg Island.

This is Canada’s High Arctic: six months of the year when the sun never dips below the horizon and another six months when that globe of light is just a dim memory. A land that feels as it should be unforgiving, but is actually teeming with life, history and energy.

A voyage like this one appeals to my yearning to see, to understand and to appreciate. On-board educational sessions given by expert guides—biologists, geologists, glaciologists—bring a new perspective to the daytime excursions. Wildlife sightings are the norm, as what seems like a barren environment is home to a surprising variety of birds and mammals: polar bears, muskoxen, arctic wolves, walrus; and bird species including ptarmigans, jaegers, arctic terns, large gyrfalcons, snowy owls and the chunky black-and-white dovekie (a bird that lives so far north that most birders can only dream of adding them to their checklist).

Some might find this ecosystem to push the extreme of their comfort zone. For others, it will be an adrenaline rush—the opportunity to place a footprint in true wilderness, to take a heli-flight-seeing excursion and hover above shelves of polar ice and snow, or to skim along the icy waters in a Zodiac, binoculars at the ready.

Weather rules the day, of course, so no itinerary is guaranteed, but there is no shortage of historical, cultural and geographical options on the menu. When possible, the expedition team leads outings to sites like the famous fossil forest on the northerly Axel Heiberg Island; or a fly-in to explore the Devon ice cap, one of the largest in the Canadian Arctic. At Fort Ross, at the southern end of Somerset Island, there’s the abandoned Hudson’s Bay Company trading post. On Beechey Island, one of Canada’s most significant Arctic exploration sites is remembered at the gravesite of crew members from the ill-fated 1845 Franklin expedition.

These places are reminders that, yes, there are those who have come before, facing brutally challenging circumstances. It’s also a reminder that this northern land may be largely out of our sights, but it is always in need of our care and protection.

spotting on Canada’s Remote Arctic expedition might include muskoxen.

Wildlife

Landing on Ellesmere Island.

PHOTOS BY SAM EDMONDS; HUGO PERRIN

FOR MORE INFO

Canada’s Remote Arctic: Quark Expeditions quarkexpeditions.com

Canada Tourism caen-keepexploring.canada.travel/

Spice Island Beach Resort spiceislandbeachresort.com

Grenada Tourism puregrenada.com

Grand Resort Bad Ragaz resortragaz.ch

Switzerland Tourism myswitzerland.com

A view of Dundas Harbour, an abandoned settlement on Devon Island, Nunavut.

EPOCH BAR & KITCHEN TERRACE, a reimagined British gastropub, was just unveiled at The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto. Chef Jeff Crump, Canadian slow food pioneer, founder of Earth to Table: Organic Farm and Earth to Table: Bread Bar and author of two cookbooks, is helming the kitchen. The Epoch menu is an homage to his earth-to-table philosophy and roots in the UK gastrobar scene including iconic The Fat Duck. “The cuisine at Epoch Bar & Kitchen Terrace reimagines traditional British gastrobar dishes with modern flavours,” says Crump. “The ingredients are grown with care and cooked with conviction ensuring the guest experience is second to none.” Casual yet imaginative dishes and cocktails are presented in an understated while elegant atmosphere in either the main dining room or the 88-seat terrace set amongst lush foliage and the sights of Simcoe Park. Open for lunch and dinner; epochtoronto.com

Epoch opens

a new restaurant

era at the Ritz Carlton Toronto Food

AUTUMN BOOKS FOR COOKS

HARRIET’S ROOFTOP IS NOW OPEN AT 1 HOTEL TORONTO

THE FORMER Thompson Hotel and its storied rooftop bar has just been replaced by sustainability-driven hospitality brand 1 Hotel and Harriet’s Rooftop. The new 1 Hotel Toronto is the eco-luxury hotel’s first Canadian location and the sixth property in their portfolio. Among the dining options, Harriet’s Rooftop is the place to go for small bites, sushi and cocktails by the pool. A fine dining option—Casa Madera—is set to open later this fall. 1hotels.com

Appleton Estate releases PREMIUM BLEND

THIS YEAR marks the 40th anniversary of Master Blender Joy Spence at Appleton Estates, and the oldest continually-operating rum distillery in Jamaica is releasing their premium 15-Year-Old Black River Casks Edition Rum globally for the first time. This super premium rum reveals aromas of toasted almond and delicate hazelnut followed by notes of orange peel, vanilla and a hint of coffee and molasses. Best enjoyed as a sipping rum served neat or on the rocks. Currently available in Ontario, B.C, and Alberta; MSRP $80, appletonestate.com

MY NEW TABLE

By Trish Magwood

Available October 26, $30,

Appetite by Random House

My New Table is a collection of more than 100 simple recipes that celebrates the modern table, however you choose to define it. Trish Magwood has seen lots of change over the past few years with blending of families, an ever-evolving career, and renovating a new house. Through it all, she realized, the table—the place where you gather, eat, and connect—remains the anchor. Divided by meal type, Magwood shares easy and delicious recipes that use simple ingredients. Colourful salads like Raw Spring Salad with Shaved Asparagus, Snap Peas, and Radishes are highlighted for spring, while restaurant-style soups such as her Forest Mushroom take the stage for autumn.

WELL SEASONED, A YEAR’S WORTH OF DELICIOUS RECIPES

By Mary Berg

Available October 5, $32, Appetite by Random House

Home cook, television star, and bestselling

author Mary Berg is back with 100 seasonal recipes to inspire and delight your palate. Well Seasoned is a cookbook to celebrate friends and family, giving readers a peek into how Berg cooks over the course of a year, and is inspired by each season. Spring is crisp, light, and lively with Green Risotto, White Wine Coq au Vin, and Pistachio Sponge Cakes with Matcha Cream; Summer is bright, fresh, and classic with Cottage Pancakes, Grilled Summer Squash Pizza, and Neapolitan Ice Cream Cake; Autumn is cozy, hearty, and nostalgic with Baked Meatballs with Pesto and Ricotta, Curried Shrimp Orzo, and Pumpkin Pecan Pudding; and Winter is rich, savory, and celebratory with Everything Bagel Drop Biscuits, Roasted Fennel and Beet Salad, and Eggnog Basque Cheesecake.

MAMAN: THE COOKBOOK ALL-DAY RECIPES TO WARM YOUR HEART

By Elisa Marshall & Benjamin Sormonte

Available September 28, $40, Penguin Canada

Maman (“Mother” in French) was created to fill a void that fiancés Elisa and Benjamin saw in the café scene—a beautiful, homey place where you could savor a delicious, freshlybaked cookie or quiche, and also gather with friends for a lively brunch as if in your own living room. In their debut cookbook, the owners of this elegant and charming collection of cafés share the recipes of some of their bestselling baked goods and dishes alongside brand new ones. This collection of 100 recipes spans from breakfast to dessert and everything in between, all united by the sense of familyinspired tradition. The spirit of the café is reflected in recipes like Banana Lavender Waffles with Vanilla Mascarpone, Roasted Delicata Squash, Hazelnut and Taleggio Focaccia Tartine, and the made-famous-byOprah Nutty Chocolate Chip Cookie.

The fine wines of

EDUARDO CHADWICK

EDUARDO CHADWICK is the charismatic, soft spoken man behind Vina Seña, Viñedo Chadwick and Errazuriz, yet he carries with him a potent message: “Chilean wines are among the best in the world.” All he has to do to prove his point, is pour the wines. He has done just that, travelling the world for decades pouring Chilean wines, promoting their quality and potential.

It is because of Eduardo’s dedication that Vina Seña and Viñedo Chadwick are considered among the world’s finest by international critics and wine media, and he has received multiple awards for his contributions in Chile, and in the world of wine as a whole.

Through rigorous grape selection, gentle handling and the finest wine making techniques Seña and Viñedo Chadwick painstakingly makes wines of unsurpassed quality. These limited quantity wines are allocated sparingly to top markets around the world.

THE ICONIC SEÑA

Seña is a profound wine built in the way of a great Grand Cru Bordeaux, with power and elegance in mind. It began with a joint venture between Eduardo Chadwick and Robert Mondavi in 1995 to show Chile’s full potential on the world wine stage. The goal was to create a world-class, icon level wine like none other in Chile.

Achieving world-class wine takes time, something both Eduardo and Robert knew; to create Chile’s first icon wine would take both of their know-how. Seña, a Bordeauxstyle red blend leans heavily on Cabernet Sauvignon but brings in Carmenere to tie the wine back to its Chilean terroir.

Seña not only proved to be a world-class wine, but also a wine with the potential to age gracefully—a sign that a wine belongs in the upper echelons of wines in the world. A top-scoring wine since the beginning, Seña boasts two 100-point vintages.

2018 was one of those vintages of a lifetime, the beautiful ripeness and uniqueness of the intense aromatics arising from the grapes were captivating, faithfully representing the greatness of the vintage and the exceptional terroir of the Seña Vineyard.

“The complexity on the nose conceals it’s many subtleties, unfolding floral notes alongside red and black fruits, denoting its distinctive freshness ... I believe we are beholding one of the greatest vintages ever crafted in the 25 years of Seña’s history,” said winemaker Francisco Baettig of the 2018 Seña.

THE TOP-SCORING VIÑEDO CHADWICK

The iconic Cabernet Sauvignon grape flourishes in Chile’s Puente Alto soils and at Errazuriz they harness that potential to make yet another iconic wine: Viñedo Chadwick.This wine honours the memory of the late Don Alfonso Chadwick Errazuriz and has been a 90+ point wine since its inception in 1999.

Consistently a top-scoring wine, Viñedo Chadwick was also the first Chilean wine to garner a perfect 100-point score, cementing Chile’s place in the world as a top wine producing country and Errazuriz as one of the top wineries within it. The awards and honours have placed them in such lofty company as Petrus, Chateau Lafitte Rothschild, Chateau Margot and Domain de la Romanée Cont.

With ideal conditions throughout the growing and harvest season, winemaker Francisco Baettig put it best when he said: “Extremely elegant, intense and of a unique depth, this is perhaps the most balanced vintage ever crafted of Viñedo Chadwick, promising a great aging potential.”

2018 Seña

Available at LCBO October 7: $199.95 • 750ml • sena.cl

2018 Viñedo Chadwick

Available at LCBO November 4: $449.95 • 750ml • vinedochadwick.cl

WHIP UP THESE AUTUMN-INSPIRED DISHES

JUST IN TIME FOR THANKSGIVING FEASTING, A TRIO OF DELICIOUS RECIPES FROM LYNN CRAWFORD AND LORA KIRK’S LATEST COOKBOOK HEARTH & HOME

Butternut Squash with Thanksgiving Trimmings

“This celebratory recipe brings together all the joyful bounty of Thanksgiving dinner in one stunning dish. The Hasselback—thin, close-together slices that stop just short of the base—does not just make the dish look extraordinary. It allows for all those flavours and tidbits to sink into the squash, delivering tasty morsels with every bite.”

Serves six to eight.

BUTTERNUT SQUASH

1 large butternut squash

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

GLAZE

¼ cup lightly packed brown sugar

1 tablespoon maple syrup

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

½ teaspoon Harissa Paste

¼ teaspoon cinnamon

¼ teaspoon nutmeg

THANKSGIVING TRIMMINGS

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 shallots, minced

2 cups Brussels sprout leaves

½ cup dried cranberries

½ cup toasted walnuts, roughly chopped

4 fresh sage leaves, chopped

2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

ROAST THE BUTTERNUT SQUASH

1. Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Using a peeler, remove skin and the white flesh from the squash. Cut the squash in half lengthwise. Scoop out and discard seeds. Rub olive oil all over the squash, then season with salt and pepper. Place the squash halves cut side down on the prepared baking sheet and roast until the squash begins to soften, about 15 minutes.

MEANWHILE, MAKE THE GLAZE

3. In a small saucepan, combine ingredients. Cook over medium heat, stirring, until the sugar dissolves, 3 to 4 minutes. Remove from the heat.

CONTINUE ROASTING THE BUTTERNUT SQUASH

4. Remove the squash from the oven and transfer to a cutting board. Using a sharp

Hearth & Home: Cook, Share and Celebrate Family-Style is available October 5.

knife, slice rounded sides of the squash halves crosswise, one-quarter inch thick, going as deep as possible but without cutting all the way through. Return the squash to the baking sheet, scored sides up. Spoon half of the glaze over the squash, allowing it to drip into the cuts. Season with salt and pepper.

5. Roast the squash for 30 minutes, then spoon the remaining glaze over the squash. Roast until the squash is tender, 15 to 20 minutes.

MEANWHILE, MAKE THE THANKSGIVING TRIMMINGS

6. While the squash continues to roast, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Stir in shallots and cook, stirring frequently, until softened, 2 to 3 minutes. Add Brussels sprout leaves, cranberries and walnuts. Toss together and cook, stirring, until the leaves turn bright green and are just wilted, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the sage and parsley, then season with salt and pepper.

7. Transfer the squash to a serving platter. Drizzle over any glaze left on the pan. Top with Thanksgiving trimmings.

Harissa-Roasted Parsnips with Whipped Feta, Pistachios and Rosemary Honey

“When tender sweet parsnips are paired with spicy, smoky harissa spice, they instantly liven up. Hot and caramelized from the oven, the parsnips settle beautifully on top of the creamy whipped feta, topped with a good drizzle of rosemary honey and lots of pistachios.” Serves four to six.

1½ to 2 pounds (675 to 900 g) parsnips, peeled and sliced in half lengthwise

3 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon finely grated peeled fresh ginger

1 teaspoon Harissa Paste

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

3 ounces (85 g) feta cheese

¼ cup heavy (35%) cream

1 teaspoon lemon juice

Rosemary Honey (page 235) or your favourite ¼ cup pistachios, finely chopped

1. Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Place the parsnips in a large bowl and add the olive oil, ginger, harissa paste, and salt and pepper to taste. Toss to coat well. Arrange the parsnips in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they have a little room on the sides to brown and caramelize. Roast until the parsnips are starting to turn golden brown on the edges, 20 to 25 minutes. Toss the parsnips to redistribute, and then continue to roast until tender and golden, another 5 to 10 minutes.

3. In a small bowl, combine the feta, cream and lemon juice. Mash with a fork or using a handheld blender, blend until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

4. Spoon the whipped feta mixture onto a serving plate, top with the roasted parsnips, drizzle with rosemary honey and sprinkle with the pistachios.

Nutty Tart

“Try this spin on a classic pecan pie. Our version has a buttery, toffee-like, gooey filling with a variety of toasted nuts in a sweet dough crust that is just perfect. Sometimes we vary the recipe by adding ½ cup chocolate chips—very acceptable, in our opinion!” Serves 8

Crust

½ cup unsalted butter, cut into ½-inch cubes, at room temperature

2/3 cup granulated sugar

1 large egg

2 cups all-purpose flour

¼ teaspoon kosher salt

FILLING

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 cup packed brown sugar

½ cup light corn syrup

1 teaspoon kosher salt

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

3 large eggs

1 cup assorted chopped roasted nuts (such as pistachios, hazelnuts, walnuts, pine nuts)

Icing sugar, for dusting

MAKE tHE Crust

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Butter a 14 x 4½-inch rectangular tart pan with removable bottom (or a 9-inch round tart pan with removable bottom).

2. In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the butter, granulated sugar and egg. Beat just until blended. Add the flour and salt and beat until moist clumps form. Gather the dough into a ball. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a rectangle (or circle) large enough to fit the tart pan with a very slight overhang. Gently lift the dough into the tart pan and press the pastry onto the bottom and up the sides (but not into the creases) of the pan. With a sharp knife cut excess pastry from the top of the tart pan. Press the pastry into the creases of the pan.

3. Place the tart pan on a baking sheet. Line the tart shell with foil or parchment paper, leaving a 1-inch overhang, and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake until the edges are just beginning to turn golden all over, 15 to 20 minutes. Transfer to a rack and let cool completely, then remove parchment paper and pie weights.

MAKE tHE FILLING

4. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium-high heat. Remove from the heat.

5. In a medium bowl, stir together the brown sugar, corn syrup, salt and vanilla. Whisk in the eggs, then whisk in the melted butter. Fold in the nuts. Place the tart pan on a baking sheet and pour the filling into the tart shell.

BAKE tHE tArt

6. Bake the tart, rotating the pan halfway through, until the filling is set around the edges and jiggles slightly in the centre when nudged, about 1 hour. Loosely place a tent of foil over the tart if the crust gets too dark. Transfer to a rack to cool completely. Remove the sides and dust with icing sugar just before serving. The tart can be stored, covered, in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Excerpted from Hearth & Home by Lynn Crawford and Lora Kirk. Copyright © 2021 by Lynn Crawford and Lora Kirk. Photography © 2021 Maya Visnyei. Published by Penguin Canada, a division of Penguin Random House Canada Limited. Reproduced by arrangement with the Publisher. All rights reserved.

WHILE YOU WERE SLEEPING

EVEN THOUGH WE WERE COOPED UP, THE WINE WORLD CONTINUED TO BOTTLE, CORK AND CAP. HERE ARE SOME OF THE VINTAGES TO LOOK FORWARD TO

by MICHAEL PINKUS

IT WOULD SEEM we’ve all been under the Rip Van Winkle effect... For the past 18 months we have been hunkered down, hiding out, cooped up (use your favourite descriptor here), basically sleeping with our eyes open, watching the world go on around us. The question swirling around in our collective heads? When will we be able to have a simple barbecue with friends and family, go shopping, see a concert; or even make more long-term plans like getting together for Thanksgiving? Or, will Christmas be cancelled again this year? Anything that gets us back to a sense of “normal”. The good news is Canada is getting there. We are seeing the country open up as well as the world around us—some places quicker than others—and some safer than others.

But while we were all “sleeping” and staying put, Mother Nature carried on with her job—not just here in Canada, but around the world. Winemakers kept going to work, grapevines kept growing and producing fruit, coopers continued to shape barrels and glass bottles continued to be filled, corked (or capped) with wine. In short, the business of wine continued despite what was going on around us, and thank goodness it did, as most of us upped our wine consumption over the past 18 months. Someone had to keep up with demand.

Here are a few tales from the past months in the wine world that might impact your wine-drinking life going forward.

For those who love their French wines, I have some bad news for you. France is facing one of their smallest harvests in history with 24 to 30 per cent less volume than in 2020. In fact, it is a volume of wine last seen produced in France way back in 1977, somewhere in the neighbourhood of 32.6 to 35.6 million hectoliters. The decline is due to the strange weather the country has seen so far 2021 with frosty nights in April and disease pressure from the prolonged rainfalls in both June and July. The hardest hit regions are Champagne, Alsace, Loire, Burgundy, Bordeaux and the Southwest; but other regions such as the Rhone Valley and Provence are also talking about a difficult and reduced crop vintage. Bottom line, if you are a lover of French wines and happen

to enjoy a certain wine from the 2021 vintage, buy as much as you can because they’ll be in limited quantity.

On the other side of the world, Australia is reporting its largest harvest recorded to date, 2.03 million tonnes, or a 31 per cent increase over last year and 16.7 per cent above their 10-year average. Rachel Triggs, General Manager Corporate Affairs and Regulations at Wine Australia called 2021 a “unicorn” vintage. “Good fruit, sufficient water at the right time, no heat waves, low disease pressure and favourable harvest conditions resulted in a high yielding vintage with high quality,” she says. And the harvest report by Wine Australia described the conditions as “near perfect”. This is great news for lovers of Australian wine, especially Shiraz. It not only saw a marked increase, but also accounts for onequarter of Australia’s production—no surprise there.

Finally, if you have been cruising the shelves of the LCBO you will notice that something interesting is happening to your Pinot Grigio… the colour is changing. That’s because the first change in the regulations of Pinot Grigio delle Venezie has now taken effect. It allows for Rosé, Rosato or Ramato to appear on the label—this is partially due to Pinot Gris (Grigio) actually having colour to give during maceration, but for years it has been “stripped” out to retain the white wine shade people expect when they buy a Pinot Grigio. Now Grigio is getting the colour it deserves. From a personal perspective, I can say that the first few I have tried I am impressed with. The added character the skin contact and colour gives to the wine enhances what was previously absent, and the stripping process reduced the flavour profile. Good on the Delle Venezie Consortium for allowing these changes. I think we are looking at a revitalization of this category with better wines to come. I hope I don’t have to drink my words for saying that.

Find below my wine recommendations that fit with these news stories, a couple from France, Australia and some rosé or pink-coloured Pinot Grigio (from both Italy and Canada).

= Outstanding

= Excellent

= Very Good

JIM BARRY 2018 SINGLE VINEYARD CABERNET / MALBEC – THE FARM

$29.95, Australia; LCBO 20881

Subtle smoky notes with mocha, blackberry and cassis, but that smoky character just keeps coming and coming with every sip.

✰✰✰ +

1

CORTE GIACOBBE 2020

PINOT GRIGIO DELLE VENZIE RAMATO

FEATHERSTONE 2020

PINOT GRIGIO

$17.95, Ontario; LCBO 20599

This is the first ever Pinot Gris / Grigio to be released under the Featherstone label, and while it says Grigio on the label it most certainly is a Gris, not a Grigio. Beautiful “rose gold” colour with lovely apple, peach and other fresh white summer fruits. The acidity is on point and it’s super refreshing for summer patio season.

✰✰✰✰

ZONTE’S FOOTSTEP 2018

BARON VON NEMESIS, LIMITED RELEASE SHIRAZ

$24.95, Australia; LCBO 212936

Super juicy, black fruit, namely cassis and blackberry with some vanilla notes. Loads of licorice with a touch of floral and white pepper, especially on the finish ... and don’t let me forget about the black cherry plum finish.

✰✰✰✰+

5

CHATEAU PEYROS 2016 VIEILLES VIGNES MADIRAN

$23.95, France; LCBO 234997

A blend of 60 per cent Tannat and 40 per cent Cabernet Franc that needs another three to five years in bottle to become “a delight”. Right now it’s just delicious: blackberry and spiced-plum, black cherry, mocha and smoke with some grippy tannins that slow down the fruit on the finish. With time the fruit will be forefront as the tannins settle down.

✰✰✰✰+

8 32

$19.95, Italy; Consignment: United Star

Really peachy with notes of nectarine, juicy and playful. As it opens pineapple joins the mix and the acidity provides a nice tartness, keeping that lovely fruit in check. This is a super-refreshing wine that delivers smiles to faces.

✰✰✰ +

MARYNISSEN 2020 HERITAGE COLLECTION PINOT GRIS

$24.95, Ontario; winery and online

4

A skin-fermented wine marketed as a Rosé. A nice, peachy nose with a slightly bitter finish but there is also lime zest and pith, grapefruit and even a hint of pineapple. I’m not that jazzed about skin-fermented whites, but this one has something interesting about it.

✰✰✰ +

6

7

M CHAPOUTIER 2019 BELLERUCHE COTE DU RHONE ROUGE

$16.70, France; LCBO 17779

Nice dark fruit and floral notes hit the nose, then repeat on the palate while adding in white pepper, mocha, black cherry, blackberry and a layered finish that shows nice depth and age-ability.

✰✰✰✰

FOLONARI 2020 PINOT GRIGIO VENEZIA PINK

$11.95 Italy; LCBO 43588

Hello Pinot Grigio with colour. I like seeing these, and I like tasting these even more: lemon, peach with nice zippy acidity, perfect summertime in a glass with just a dash of sweetness on the mid-palate and a Pez-like dusty quality on the finish. This is a total quaffer. ✰✰✰

One of the featured artists at GTA21 is Canadian Kareem-Anthony Ferreira who will display similar work to that shown here.

House Calls from Uncle Sean, (2020).

Culture

MOCA Toronto announces Greater Toronto Art 2021

ON SEPTEMBER 29 the Museum of Contemporary Art Toronto (MOCA) will launch Greater Toronto Art 2021 (GTA21), the first edition of a triennial survey. GTA21 marks a renewed focus by MOCA on the local art scene and offers significant support for the featured artists to realize new and/or expanded work. Visitors will encounter 21 specially commissioned or never-before-seen artworks spanning all three floors of the museum in a range of media including drawing, sculpture, performance, painting and video. Beyond the museum walls, the exhibition features several public artworks, a set of responsive digital components, and a variety of public programs and learning initiatives. The Greater Toronto Art triennial survey is envisioned as a longterm commitment to Toronto’s artistic future, a framework that will continue to support the city’s creative community while addressing the most pressing issues of our time. The next Greater Toronto Art exhibition will take place in 2024. September 29, 2021 through January 9, 2022; moca.ca

Image courtesy of the artist and Nino Mier Gallery.

DON’T MISS THIS WARHOL RETROSPECTIVE

THE ART GALLERY OF ONTARIO (AGO) welcomed visitors back to live art exhibitions with a blockbuster career retrospective of Andy Warhol An icon at the centre of 20th-century pop art, Warhol created a vast body of work including film and publishing. Featuring loans from museums and private collections in Europe and North America, Andy Warhol spans all four decades of the artist’s career. Key works from Warhol’s Pop period include Marilyn Diptych (1962) from Tate Modern, 100 Campbell’s Soup Cans (1962) from Museum für Moderne Kunst, Frankfurt, and the AGO’s Elvis I and II (1963/4). Two experimental installations are also on view: Exploding Plastic Inevitable (1966), an immersive, psychedelic multimedia environment that involves film projections, disco balls, and the sounds of experimental rock group The Velvet Underground; while Silver Clouds (1965-66) invites visitors to watch metallic pillows floating in space. One important theme of the exhibition is Warhol’s sexuality, and also on view is Sleep, a 1963 film that stars his lover, the poet John Giorno, and the 1975 series of paintings Ladies and Gentlemen, which memorializes members of New York City’s transgender community. This exhibition is organized by Tate Modern, London, in collaboration with Museum Ludwig, Cologne, and the Art Gallery of Ontario, Toronto. Continues until October 24; ago.ca

Andy Warhol, Ladies and Gentlemen (Helen/Harry Morales), 1975. Acrylic paint and silkscreen ink on canvas, 35.6 x 27.9 cm. Italian Private Collection. © 2021 The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, Inc / Licensed by Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York / SOCAN

Ballet of Canada reopens after 20 months

Artists of the Ballet in Angels’ Atlas. photo by Karolina Kuras/courtesy of The National Ballet of Canada

AFTER A 20-MONTH closure due to Covid-19, The National Ballet of Canada is re-opening with the final season of programing produced by Artistic Director Karen Kain. This last season before Kain segues into the role of Artistic Director Emerita includes the seasonal presentation of The Nutcracker and the world premiere of a new staging of Swan Lake, directed and staged by Kain. The fall season will begin with performances of Canadian choreographer Crystal Pite’s Angels’ Atlas in November, a work that unfolds against a morphing wall of light. Set to original music by Canadian composer Owen Belton and choral pieces by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky and Morten Lauridsen, Angels’ Atlas is a profound new work from one of the world’s leading contemporary choreographers. Angels’ Atlas will be presented alongside George Balanchine’s classic Serenade from November 11 to 21, tickets go on sale October 5; national.ballet.ca

artist profile

JANNA WATSON

HER COLOURFUL ABSTRACT PAINTINGS ARE ATTRACTING ATTENTION IN THE ART WORLD, BUT JANNA WATSON IS ALSO TRANSLATING THAT WORK INTO CONTEMPORARY DECOR WITH HAND-TUFTED RUGS

by BECKY DUMAIS

ABSTRACT ARTIST Janna Watson received informal art instruction in the most idyllic, organic way. Her grandfather—who was himself an abstract watercolour painter and rug maker— gave her art lessons as a child, learning how to paint using watercolours.

He lived on a farm, which sounds like countless picture-perfect canvases in the making. “He would send me out to the field,” Watson recalls. “I have a very strong memory of him sending me out, and he wanted me to draw the essence of a tree. I remember not really knowing what that meant.” As any good young student, she obliged and came back to receive his critique. “He said that it was OK, but it needed to be more wild.”

Watson explains that she was raised with the idea of always needing to capture the essence of things. “He was able to teach me that you’re not really drawing the tree, you’re drawing the feeling that the tree gives you and the wildness; you’re trying to portray how the tree feels.”

The childhood mentoring led to a lifelong

passion. Since completing an honours degree in Drawing and Painting from the Ontario College of Art and Design (OCAD) she’s had more than 20 solo exhibitions internationally and across Canada. Something else she remembers now with comical chagrin, is that she didn’t realize her grandfather had provided her with artistgrade supplies—those she couldn’t afford to buy for herself when she was studying at OCAD.

Watson’s first exhibit was at the Soho Metropolitan Hotel in Toronto, while still a student. The property manager commissioned a piece for the front lobby; it was so well received she was asked to create work for each floor of the hotel. “That gave me the confidence to pursue painting fulltime,” she says.

The artist creates out of Studio Watson in Toronto: one art space, two mediums, her painting and her rugs. “When I’m designing rugs it’s more planned out, and a lot of energy goes into it, whereas when I’m in the studio it’s different,” she explains. “I need relaxed space and time to be able to feel pieces out and free space. I have my paints picked out and an idea

BELOW: Artist Janna Watson, and Arthur’s Wine hand-tufted rug on display at Studio Watson.

ABOVE: The Blue Sun, 48-inch by 48-inch painting.

LEFT: Fruit Of The Loom, hand-tufted rug.

CULTURE

Thinking About Warm Things, 30-inch by 30-inch painting.

of the composition, but I don’t exactly know how it’s going to come together until it’s happening.”

She’s proud to be working with one of the only female-owned rug mills in India. “My intention is to bring value back to the rug. People don’t understand how much goes into (making them). It’s not just the design that’s being translated into the rug, actual rug making is an art form, the amount of time, labour and love that goes into it.”

She knows the perception that rugs are merely trodden-on tableaus that can be easily purchased and replaced at any home décor store. “It’s been interesting trying to educate people on (their) value”. It presents the idea of questioning how craft is valued versus art and relating it back to the early Bauhaus movement. “That’s where the craft has been devalued over time.”

Watson continues to learn, what were once called mistakes, are now “discoveries”. To an observer, a stroke might look intentional but to her accidental, yet something she worked three years on to recreate intentionally. “I’m learning from these moments that happen and trying to understand what exactly happened. I think as far as learning, it’s almost like becoming—especially with abstract work. I feel like it’s constantly becoming itself.”

View Watson’s work online: jannawatson.com

ABOVE: Arthur’s Studio, and at left, If These Floors Could Talk hand-tufted rugs. AT RIGHT: a cat scratcher for very pampered felines.

The Spot That Flowers, 48-inch by 60-inch painting.