Home In Canada - Toronto - Winter 2019

TORONTO

Sharon Azrieli presents

CANADIAN BY DESIGN

WINTER

MOSHE SAFDIE

ISSUE

A RCH ITECT

LIGHT TOUCH

New lighting fixtures for your home

MOUNTAIN MAGIC

A rustic-chic home in Banff

STYLE AND SUBSTANCE

Inviting homes across Canada

LAND OF THE PHARAOHS

$6.95

athomeincanada.ca

Travel to Egypt

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

BEST COFFEE MACHINES

FENG SHUI FOR WINTER

PUBLISHER’S LETTER

athomeincanada.ca

Dear readers, It is now more than 50 years since Moshe Safdie was invited to create Habitat ’67, with its utopian ideals, geometric shapes, and a garden for every resident on every corner and storey. It caused an international stir then, helped to put the city of Montreal on the architectural map, and continues to fascinate us to this day.

Designed by Safdie when he was only in his mid-20s, the experiment in urban living is as prescient now as it was when it was built for the Expo ’67 World’s Fair.

I recently had the thrill of visiting Habitat, including Safdie’s own personal apartment, when it was temporarily opened for guided tours. On a warm summer’s day, with brilliant sunlight flooding the concrete modular boxes and showing off the bright blue of the St. Lawrence River that flows past it, a group of us – including tourists from abroad – marveled at its Safdie’s visionary design.

Every square inch of Habitat is a study in impressive engineering feats, of Safdie’s deep regard for humanity, and of how we can live in harmony with each other and the urban environment.

After intense research, none of which could ever possibly suffice, I met Moshe Safdie in his Boston office to discuss his long, illustrious career and the work that he continues to do. His latest project, which he especially wanted to discuss with us, is Jewel Changi. Built between 2014 and 2019 in Singapore, this project is every bit as utopian in concept as was Habitat ’67. At its centre is the Rain Vortex, the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, surrounded by a forest.

While an airport hub may seem quite dissimilar to a “before-its-time” modular urban housing development, there is a thread that binds these two projects with all the others that Safdie has designed. Idealism, coupled with the human element, is in everything this architect does.

Airports are utilitarian environments. Jewel Changi is so much more, drawing 300,000 people per day.

Likewise, the idea of Habitat far transcends its 354 modular housing cubes.

Moshe Safdie, like all the great Canadians in my series of interviews, is a visionary, philosopher, optimist and humanitarian. It was a pleasure and honour to interview him. You can read all about it on page 28.

SHARON AZRIELI Publisher

6

THE WINTER ISSUE

Expression of excellence

"I take pride in being a strong woman in a traditionally male dominated industry."

C: (416) 723.9984 | barroso@bell.net

barrosohomes.com

EDITOR’S LETTER

athomeincanada.ca

IF YOU’VE EVER MOVED HOUSE, you’re probably familiar with that strange feeling of observing empty rooms after the movers have packed up your stuff and set off for the new digs. “This was a cozy home,” you think to yourself. Now, stripped down to its essentials – floors, walls, ceilings, doors, windows – it’s more of a house than a home.

So, what was it that made your house a home? Was it the furniture? The rugs? The building materials? It was likely all of those things and more. I believe that the sense of “home” comes from the many elements that are layered on once the large pieces of furniture are in place: lighting, books, window coverings, wallpaper, paintings and objets d’art, cushions and wool throws, the treasures we tote home from vacations. It’s also the colours and the quality of the light in each room at various times of day. In fact, it’s a meshing together of many elements along with the human energy that we pour into our spaces.

Good designers understand how to orchestrate all of those elements into a cohesive whole. They know exactly how to configure rooms so that the inhabitants feel comfortable, cozy, and proprietary about their homes.

They understand how to create visual flow between the rooms. Good designers have a strong sense of their clients’ preferences.

You’ll meet several of those highly competent designers in this issue as we take you into eight distinct homes that are beloved by their owners because of that magical coalescence of elements and energy.

We also tell you about the extra essentials that can transform a house into a home.

Writer Elisabeth Kalbfuss writes about a new generation of wallpaper that creates a strong wow effect. Tracey MacKenzie shows us the latest lighting fixtures just in time for winter, the darkest season of the year. We also include features about how to select the right coffee machine, how to accessorize your bathroom and how to choose the right material for your kitchen counters.

It’s all about the details, the features that transform a basic house into a beloved home.

STEPHANIE WHITTAKER Editor-in-Chief stephanie@homeincanadamagazine.ca There are several ways you can stay in touch with us: @homeincanada @athomeincanada @athomeincanada

8

THE WINTER ISSUE

CONTRIBUTORS

athomeincanada.ca

SUSAN SCHWARTZ Writer Susan Schwartz has long been interested in what’s important to people about the spaces they inhabit: What makes a house a home, anyway? “Toronto-based designer Vanessa Emam was an absolute dream to interview about the house she designed for herself, her husband and their two sons,” Susan says. “She had a clear vision for the space: She knew she wanted it to look and feel modern but also to have character and warmth. And with her designer’s creativity and skill, she was able to translate that vision into reality and to produce for her family not just a house but a home.”

DONNA NEBENZAHL Montrealer Donna Nebenzahl, a former newspaper writer and editor, has been following the work of the young architects at La Shed Architecture since they started their company more than a decade ago. Now focusing on magazine assignments and sustainable food projects, Donna was delighted to be able to write about a La Shed renovation project in her own Montreal neighbourhood of Notre Dame de Grace. “Somehow they seamlessly blend the contemporary addition into the stately frame of an older home,” she says.

CHERYL CORNACCIA In this issue, writer Cheryl Cornacchia takes us inside a downtown Toronto penthouse, recently redesigned to showcase the Asian art collection of its owners. After more than 25 years of travelling in Asia for work, the condo owners wanted to be surrounded by the sculptures, prints and other artifacts they had brought home to Canada while importing a hint of the Japanese aesthetic they came to love. The condo, designed by Toronto designer Sheree Stuart, has just been awarded two coveted international design awards.

LA CARMINA La Carmina is a travel journalist and TV host, best known for her appearances on “Bizarre Foods” and “No Reservations.”

Long fascinated by mysterious civilizations, she was thrilled to cross Egypt off her bucket list. “There’s nothing like seeing these ancient ruins in the flesh, to fully appreciate the grandeur of the architecture,” she says. “I was floored to learn how advanced the Egyptians were. My group saw carvings of helicopters – how could they have known all this centuries ago?”

La Carmina is next heading to Mexico to investigate Aztec pyramids. You can find her @lacarmina on Instagram, and on her site: www.lacarmina.com.

JULIE GEDEON Seasoned writer/editor Julie Gedeon is always struck by the artistry that’s achieved by a designer with a keen eye for pulling together all the elements in a home. For this issue, Julie profiled a condominium designed by designer Shiva Khalilnia, the owner of Import Temptations in Toronto. “Shiva added a restrained but effective Midas touch to her client’s condo,” Julie says. Also, for those in search of the perfect cup of coffee, Julie tells us how to navigate the often-confusing market of coffee machines.

10

THE WINTER ISSUE

Toronto Edition Volume 9, number 6; Winter issue 2019/2020 Date of Issue: November, 2019 6100 TransCanada Highway Suite 100, Pointe-Claire Quebec H9R 1B9

Call 1-866-846-1640 www.homeincanadamagazine.ca sales@homeincanadamagazine.ca info@homeincanadamagazine.ca

PUBLISHER Dr. Sharon Azrieli, CQ CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER Stanley Kirsh

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Stephanie Whittaker ART DIRECTOR Nader Meleika CONSULTING ART DIRECTOR Kelly Litzenberger EDITORIAL COORDINATOR Carmen Lefebvre CONTRIBUTORS Cheryl Cornacchia Julie Gedeon Elisabeth Kalbfuss Susan Kelly La Carmina Tracey MacKenzie Donna Nebenzahl Phillipa Rispin Susan Schwartz Karen Seidman Nadine Thomson PHOTOGRAPHY Jamie Anholt Larry Arnal Maxime Brouillet Stephani Buchman Mike Chajecki Drew Hadley Ken Hunt Gillian Jackson La Carmina STYLING Cintya Castellanos Majida Devani Vanessa Emam Grecia Gallo Shiva Khalilnia Kelly Morrison Denise Palisaitis Sheree Stuart

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Azrieli CONTROLLER Jenny Marques DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Artur Kozyra ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT & ADVERTISING COORDINATOR Neve Foltz DIRECTOR OF SALES - NATIONAL Kelly Chicoine For sales inquiries, please email Kelly Chicoine: kelly@homeincanadamagazine.ca DIRECTOR OF REGIONAL SALES - ONTARIO Grant Wells For sales inquiries, please email Grant Wells, gwells@movatohome.com To subscribe go here: www.athomeincanada.ca/ print-subscription LEGAL DEPOSIT 1927-324x Home In Canada Inc. 2019. All rights reserved. Any copying or reproduction of content without the written permission of Home In Canada is strictly prohibited. issn

drapery | blinds | carpet | upholstery | bedding | wallpaper 8481 Keele St., Concord, ON 905.660.7290

12967 Keele St., King City, ON 905.833.5464

www.mapledrapery.com

CONTENTS

athomeincanada.ca

28 ON THE COVER SAVING THE WORLD, ONE GARDEN AT A TIME

Architect Moshe Safdie infuses the idealistic spirit of Habitat ’67 into all of his work Portrait: Joyelle West. Building: Han Min T

42 INTEGRATION OF OLD AND NEW

Original elements in a century-old home are preserved while the structure is updated for contemporary life

56 MOUNTAIN MAGIC

Rustic details and contemporary touches marry well in a Banff home

12

THE WINTER ISSUE

THAT’S ANCIENT HISTORY

A trip to Egypt is a fascinating visit to a mysterious past

90

CONTENTS

6

PUBLISHER’S LETTER

8

EDITOR’S LETTER

16

THIS JUST IN A selection of new items for your home

52

TOTALLY OFF THE WALL Today’s stunning wall coverings and murals are not your grandma’s wallpaper

66

ALL THAT GLITTERS Jewelry designer Dalia Lash helps clients find pieces to suit their style

70

WAKE UP AND SMELL THE COFFEE Coffee lovers have the choice of many new and improved brewing options on the market

74

VAST VISTAS Luxury materials and contemporary design highlight the views from this condo

82

PRESENT THEM WITH BEAUTIFUL GIFTS Our holiday gift guide makes it easy

98

THE SPA LOOK AT HOME Fleurco’s collections of accessories for the bathroom offer beauty and function

108

LICENCE TO CHILL Add yang elements to your decor to balance out the season’s yin energy

112

ENLIGHTENED VIEWS The latest pendant lights, chandeliers and table lamps make it easy to create warm, cozy rooms

126

WHAT’S OLD IS NEW AGAIN How the sign of Capricorn will change your life and style heading into 2020

136

BEDROOM BEFORE AND AFTER A makeover in this country home includes serene sleeping quarters and an ensuite bathroom

138

AN OPEN-AND-SHUT CASE Automation makes the operation of blinds and drapes simple and convenient

140

ASIAN INFLUENCE A recently renovated Toronto penthouse features subtle Japanese design elements

148

SERVICE CENTRE Coffee company JURA opens a new Hospitality Centre in Mississauga

150

SPACE IN THE CITY A historic home in downtown Montreal has an unusually large backyard

158

MATERIAL CONCERNS Finding the right kitchen counter can be challenging, given all the options on the market

14

THE WINTER ISSUE

athomeincanada.ca

100

CALM, CONTEMPORARY, COHESIVE

A Toronto home is holistically designed with a light and airy aesthetic

118

DARING DESIGN

The owners of a Calgary design-build company test interesting concepts when creating their own home

128

BLURRED LINES AND SURPRISES

A designer creates a home for her family, giving it continuity between the indoors and outdoors

DESIGN

athomeincanada.ca

T H IS JUST IN

WARM-UP The Lido fire pit table is made of rust-free cast aluminum in a woodgrain or black finish. It gives off 40,000 BTU of heat, perfect for those cool nights under the stars. It’s contemporary, durable, and easy to use. Perfect for all-season use.

General Products Outdoor Furniture 160 East Beaver Creek Rd., #26, Richmond Hill 905-709-1162 www.gppatio.com

SAVVY STORAGE The Vogue storage Box, available in a large or small size, allows you to stow your outdoor furniture cushions. It’s made of rust-free cast aluminum. With its graphite frame, it is weather-resistant for the Canadian climate, and can hold cushions for two chairs and a sofa, while keeping them dry and clean.

General Products Outdoor Furniture 160 East Beaver Creek Rd., #26, Richmond Hill 905-709-1162 www.gppatio.com

A CHAIR WITH FLAIR The Flair recliner, Canadian-made by LeatherCraft furniture, has a hardwood frame that’s glue-screwed with corner blocks and wood dowels for extra strength. The cushions have a high-density core and are available with the option of comfortable blended down. Custom-made with a choice of more than 100 Italian top-grain leathers, or 65 fabrics to fit any home’s colour palette.

The Hide House 49 Eastern Ave., Acton 519-853-1031 ~ 877-453-2843 www.hidehouse.ca

16

THE WINTER ISSUE

coming soon

A WORLD OF POSSIBILITIES FOR YOUR BATHROOM

www.fleurco.com

DESIGN • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

CONVERGE ON STYLE The Convergence mirror is cast in artisan-grade resin, dressed in shimmering antique silver leaf. It’s generous in scale, measuring nearly five feet in diameter and rests one foot off the wall. This makes for a show-stopping dimensional wall piece. Also available in gold leaf and bronze. 58W X 10D X 58H. Import Temptations Inc. 188 Bentworth Ave., Toronto 416-256-3150 www.import-temptations.com

SLEEK AND CHIC This buffet, by Reflex Angelo and available exclusively at Import Temptations, boasts a shiny lacquered finish in colours Nero Beluga or Latte. Equipped with two drawers – one folding door and a striking organic slash that breaks up the lacquered panel to form a focal point – it is offered with details in gold or brass. Measures 82.68 W X 20.87D X 29.13H. Import Temptations Inc. 188 Bentworth Ave., Toronto 416-256-3150 www.import-temptations.com

COOL BREW The Dinamica TrueBrew Over Ice™ by DeLonghi is the first and only fully automatic espresso and cappuccino machine with TrueBrew Over Ice™ technology. The TrueBrew patented process delivers smooth, full-bodied iced coffee that is never watered down. Enjoy coffee shop-quality beverages at the push of a button.

Linen Chest www.linenchest.com

STYLISH AND SOPHISTICATED UGG brings its sophisticated designer touch to the bedroom.

Made with 100 per cent brushed cotton, the Hyland bedding collection features a stylish duvet cover and a euro sham, sold separately. It’s the ultimate in comfort and luxury and is exclusively available at Linen Chest.

Linen Chest www.linenchest.com

18

THE WINTER ISSUE

Clockwise from left: Andersen MultiGlide Door factory black interior, black extruded exterior; Pictured at right (top and bottom): Architectural Collection E-Series picture and transom windows with painted White interiors; 400 Series awning and picture window with prefinished Black Interiors

Create Distinction.

Turn every window and door into a design opportunity with dramatic sizes, dynamic shapes, unlimited colors and exotic woods.

Explore the possibilities at andersenwindows.com “Andersen” and all other marks where denoted are trademarks of Andersen Corporation. ©2018 Andersen Corporation. All rights reserved. MS1807_0409

2354 Wyecroft Rd., Unit 23 Oakville, ON L6L 6L8 905.847.2071

muskokawindowanddoor.ca

2113 Dundas Street West Toronto, Ontario M6R 1X1 416.534.4593

DESIGN

athomeincanada.ca

DIAMOND DAZZLE These baguette drop earrings, made of 18kt white gold and 7.46ct of diamonds, are designed to be an elegant accessory for an evening out on the town.

Mark Lash Fine Jewelry 480 Eglinton Ave. W., Toronto ~ 416-256-5229 9033 Leslie St., Richmond Hill ~ 905-881-5229 www.marklash.com

RING FLING

These bracelets by Mark Lash include an assortment of yellow gold, diamonds and pink sapphires. Details upon request.

These rings by Mark Lash include a heart-shaped beauty made of 14kt white gold and 0.56ct of pavĂŠ diamonds; one crafted of 14kt yellow gold with 3.30ct of blue topaz; one made of 14kt yellow gold with 4.80ct of ombre blue topaz; and one radiant-cut diamond eternity band (18kt white gold and 5.80ct of diamonds).

Mark Lash Fine Jewelry 480 Eglinton Ave. W., Toronto ~ 416-256-5229 9033 Leslie St., Richmond Hill ~ 905-881-5229 www.marklash.com

Mark Lash Fine Jewelry 480 Eglinton Ave. W., Toronto ~ 416-256-5229 9033 Leslie St., Richmond Hill ~ 905-881-5229 www.marklash.com

BRACELET BEAUTIES

20

THE WINTER ISSUE

Smart Shadings Unlimited Possibilities

When you choose motorized window coverings from Shades of Home you guarantee an open, safe and scalable connected home.

Senior Designers: Marie Iannace, Stephen Poxon, Hilary Barichello

SHADESof HOME

Est.1985

HOME AUTOMATION SHOWROOMS

900 Caledonia Rd, North York 1200 Speers Rd, Oakville

416-787-8555 905-827-8555

www.shadesofhome.ca Interior Decor | Custom Drapery | Blinds | Shades | Motorization & Automation

DESIGN • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

FOR EASE OF MOVEMENT The Latitude Pivot is everything you love about the Latitude series of shower doors, but now with a system that allows it to pivot inward and outward. It also has ease of maintenance thanks to the silkscreen design. It comes in a single door, in-line, two-sided and corner models. Latitude doors are also equipped with Microtek glass surface protection as well as S.R.T. safety film for added protection. Matte black finish.

Fleurco www.fleurco.com

THE WELL-DRESSED WINDOW These shades are made for window openings in which a shade cannot be mounted because of limited mounting space or where you don’t want it mounted on the window frame. The honeycombs are cordless without unsightly centre strings and are available in both bottom-up and top-down-bottom-up mode. The roller shades are also cordless. Child-safety is built in.

Shades of Home 900 Caledonia Rd., Toronto ~ 416-787-8555 1200 Speers Rd., Oakville ~ 905-827-8555 www.shadesofhome.ca

ONE-TOUCH COFFEE Jura’s most successful automatic coffee machine is now easier to use, and has a greater variety of specialities and more sophisticated design. The One-Touch cappuccino function creates such specialities as latte macchiato, flat white and cappuccino, while the Pulse Extraction Process (P.E.P.®) optimizes extraction time and guarantees the best aroma for short speciality coffees.

Equipped with the latest JURA technologies, the new JURA E8 conjures up an impressive range of speciality coffees at the touch of a button. Buttons on the front of the machine and a modern TFT display simplify operation. The integrated maintenance programs and new interchangeable milk spout ensure maximum hygiene.

Jura Hospitality Centre 115 Matheson Blvd. E., Mississauga 905-501-7600 www.ca.jura.com

22

THE WINTER ISSUE

THE WINTER ISSUE

22

Toronto Trends 2019 JMD Rugs and Carpets.indd 38

2019-06-13 8:14 AM

DESIGN

athomeincanada.ca

FOR A QUIET CHAT The Tete-à -Tete chaise features two opposing sides that allow for the perfect corner in which to cuddle. Sleek and beautiful, it’s the place for a private conversation.

Cocoon Furnishings 2695 Bristol Cir., Unit #2 Oakville, Ont. 905-829-2780 www.cocoonfurnishings.ca

TURNING THE TABLE

STRUT YOUR STUFF

This generously proportioned and graceful table is perched atop three marble legs with steel dowels. It boasts a minimalist aesthetic and a table top that cantilevers.

The Strut side table puts its best foot forward. Showing strength and playfulness, the steel leg is the perfect counterpart to the walnut back panel. A single drawer offers storage while the functional bevelled, honed stone top provides a durable surface for a cocktail.

Cocoon Furnishings 2695 Bristol Cir., Unit #2 Oakville, Ont. 905-829-2780 www.cocoonfurnishings.ca

24

THE WINTER ISSUE

Cocoon Furnishings 2695 Bristol Cir., Unit #2 Oakville, Ont. 905-829-2780 www.cocoonfurnishings.ca

#1 Performing Wood Window & Patio Door for the combination of energy, sound and value.1 You deserve exceptional energy efficiency, sound control and value – that’s why we’re redefining performance to include it all. Introducing Pella® Lifestyle Series wood windows and patio doors, offering performance options that reduce 52% more sound and are on average 79% more energy efficient than single-pane windows.2, 3 Oakville, 1195 North Service Road West | 905-827-1690 Toronto, 1820 Bayview Avenue | 416-485-1234

PellaofToronto.com 1 Performance solutions require upgrades to triple-pane, AdvancedComfort Low-E and mixed glass thickness. Based on comparing product quotes and published STC/OITC and U-Factor ratings of leading national wood window and patio door brands.2 Performance solutions require upgrades to triple pane and mixed glass thickness. Reduction in sound based on OITC ratings of Pella Lifestyle Series windows to a single-pane wood or vinyl window with an OITC of 19. Double-hung windows are not available with triple-pane glass. Calculated by using the sound transmission loss values in the 80 to 4000 Hz range as measured in accordance with ASTM E-90(09). Actual results may vary.3 Performance solutions require upgrades to triple pane and AdvancedComfort Low-E. Window energy efficiency calculated in a computer simulation using RESFEN 6.0 default parameters for a 2000 sq. foot new construction single-story home when comparing Pella Lifestyle Series windows to a single-pane wood or vinyl window. Double-hung windows are not available with triple-pane glass. The energy efficiency and actual savings will vary by location. The average window energy efficiency is based on a national average of 94 modeled cities across the country and weighting based on population. For more details see pella.com/methodology.

CLASSIC HAS NEVER BEEN SO MODERN

available at Kitchen Interior Design

1055 Bay Street Toronto 416-286-2222 www.binns.net

@binnsdesign

ARCHITECTURE

athomeincanada.ca

SAVING THE WORLD ONE GARDEN AT A TIME Architect Moshe Safdie has infused the idealistic spirit of Habitat ’67 into all of his life’s work

BY SHARON AZRIELI PHOTOGRAPHY: JOYELLE WEST

WITH A HOLISTIC VISION for architecture that began before he achieved world fame as the young man who created Habitat ’67, Moshe Safdie – in his white shirt and black blazer – shines as brilliantly as the colours of the bright fall day on which we meet in his Boston offices.

Thank goodness! Is it because, at 81, Safdie is as busy and optimistic as ever? Is it because the world has finally caught up with his futuristic and ergonomic thinking that, 52 years ago, was so incredibly ahead of its time?

Safdie has left his mark on the earth, figuratively, literally, and philosophically – worldwide, and on every continent. –>

Yad Vashem Holocaust History Museum Photo courtesy of Timothy Hursley

28

THE WINTER ISSUE

ARCHITECTURE • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

THE WINTER ISSUE

29

ARCHITECTURE

athomeincanada.ca

Vancouver Library

He was born in Haifa, Israel in 1938 to parents who created a successful garment business once they arrived in Canada in the early 1950s. They gave him a hard time about studying architecture at McGill University, and he had to divide his student days between his studies and working for the family business.

He came to world attention as the wunderkind who was awarded, at age 26, the contract to design Habitat ’67, the major theme exhibition of the 1967 Montreal World Exposition.

Habitat pioneered a vision for urban housing using the technology of pre-fabricated construction, and a design that incorporated dwellings, gardens and commercial spaces.

His legacy includes airports, museums,

30

THE WINTER ISSUE

libraries, government buildings, and entire communities of housing and mixed-use structures. He likes to say that his practice has resisted specialization (except for his penchant for saving the world with Habitat-like urban designs, which we will get to later).

“After we did Vancouver Library, we were stereotyped as specialists, which meant we went on to do Salt Lake City Library and now Boise Library, but generally, I prefer to work on many building types. One project I would like to do still … is a stadium,” he says.

As we sit down, Safdie, an excellent teacher from his days at Harvard University, explains how post-Modernist architecture became, as he describes it, “precious” design. I remark: “I have never heard that term used before.” He quips: “That’s because I haven’t used it!”

“But I tend to think now more in terms of ‘form follows purpose.’ “

ARCHITECTURE • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts Photos courtesy of Timothy Hursley

athomeincanada.ca

United States Institute of Peace

He continues, saying that styling was “a noble and elegant side of architecture that followed the Modernist movement of the Second World War.” “Some of us didn’t give up,” he says, “I consider myself part of that group who did not embrace Post Modernism and did not go for this kind of sculptural formalism. And what’s interesting is that one separates objectives and ethics from results. This doesn’t mean that the ethical framework was wrong.

But I tend to think now more in terms of ‘form follows purpose.’ Is the interaction of the space fabulous for its intended purposes?

This philosophy can apply to all spaces and all intended functions. It’s making an architecture that uplifts people’s spirits and at the same time, fulfills their basic needs.”

Safdie insists that it’s important to deal with the full spectrum of sustainability, of comfort, and of resources, while at the same time having the “sublime objective” of meeting both needs and beauty. –>

Habitat ’67

THE WINTER ISSUE

31

ARCHITECTURE

athomeincanada.ca

When the Home in Canada team recently visited Habitat ’67 (because the original apartment that still belongs to Safdie was on view to the public), I noted that those cubes and gardens do not seem futuristic, but homey. The small touches of elegance that for 1967 were incredibly forward-thinking are now de rigueur in any new build.

The touches of homeliness, such as space in front of each home for plants, and checks in walls for privacy, are incredibly well thought out. Safdie had many utopian ideas, such as deliberately excluding odd-numbered floors from all elevators to require residents to reach their homes by the stairs, and placing cars far from their owners’ apartments to ensure that community members encounter each other.

These have unfortunately not become part of the next generation’s zeitgeist.

Sharon Azrieli at Habitat ’67

32

THE WINTER ISSUE

ARCHITECTURE • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

“The notion of garden is both literal and metaphorical, and has guided my work in a profound way.”

Habitat ’67 Photo courtesy of James Brittain

“Did I set out at Habitat to create a work of art? To me, that’s an absurd starting point!”

Safdie says. “I set out to solve a housing issue.

Most architects today think that they have licence to do whatever they feel like. I personally feel like architects should have much more exacting missions than that. When an architect embraces that (philosophy), it is doomed to failure because architecture is not sculpture and it is not art in the sense of ‘anything goes.’ ” There were attempts at other Habitat-style concepts, and some larger ones. A Habitat project in Puerto Rico in 1968 was abandoned and now lies in ruins. The New City of Modi’in in Israel is a success. But in the 1970s, Safdie says, “there was a big recessive moment in which urban development was not the focus” and he did not have the opportunity to do many more projects like Habitat. –>

THE WINTER ISSUE

33

ARCHITECTURE

athomeincanada.ca

Raffles City Chongqing

Photo courtesy of HEZHENHUAN

Marina Bay Sands Photo courtesy of MBS Visuals

It seems that the world has finally come around to his way of thinking and seeing.

Demand in countries with enormous populations, such as China and India, has created an understanding of the need for his brand of thinking. Now he has huge projects, such as Raffles City Chongqing and Habitat Qinghuangdao.

These complexes have tree-lined streets many storeys up as well as on the ground, and high-end to low-end commercial centres within them. Depending on the size of the urban areas, there are libraries, swimming pools and parks – all of the elements that

34

THE WINTER ISSUE

Safdie had initially envisioned for Habitat ’67 that were never built. He has designed, finally, his dream cities of the future. In my opinion he was always more of an idealistic urban planner, and architecture was his craft to that end. Now the world’s needs are catching up with his vision, enabling it to be more fully expressed.

During our interview, we discussed one of my favourite of his projects, which I had the pleasure of visiting last year: The Marina Bay Sands Integrated Resort. There, I met with one of his team of architects and I swam in the famous 146-metre-long rooftop pool.

This is the amazing public space that put Singapore on people’s radar.

Completed in 2011, the Marina Bay Sands Integrated Resort was a competition launched by the government of Singapore. Safdie won the competition through an ingenious response to the limited land available, which caused him to place the hotel’s pool and park atop the sail-like hotel structure. He created windows to the sky instead of a wall of buildings, including a gorgeous lotus-like-shaped museum that allows light in through the tops of its soft petals, and a show-stopping glamorous retail promenade on the water from

ARCHITECTURE • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

Marina Bay Sands Photo courtesy of Timothy Hursley

“There’s a direct link of responsibility to the impact on the life of those you design for.”

Photo courtesy of MBS Visuals

which fireworks are seen every night over the bay. He changed the city’s image, created a tourist destination. The city adores him.

The first time Safdie conceived of an indoor waterfall was for Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv, completed in 2004. “For one thing, it shows you how architects evolve ideas from project to project,” he says. “They learn from them. In Ben Gurion, there was the idea to have a rotunda and I thought, how banal! So I thought, what if I did a dish and I suspended

that dish column free over a gathering place from which you go to your plane? And then, of course, once you do a dish, it collects water at the bottom. And what are you going to do with it? So, I said: ‘let’s make a waterfall.’ And they all thought I was crazy. But we addressed the technical issues. In fact, this was the first waterfall in a public space in Israel and, as you know, water is very precious in Israel, and it was very meaningful.” –>

Photo courtesy of CHIA Ming Chien

THE WINTER ISSUE

35

ARCHITECTURE

athomeincanada.ca

Jewel Changi Airport Photos courtesy of Timothy Hursley

His second waterfall, a public art installation called the “Rain Oculus,” is a large dynamic whirlpool created in collaboration with artist Ned Kahn. As part of the Art Path at Marina Bay Sands, it was designed to engage people along the promenade, and acts as both skylight and rain collector, showering water into the enclosed retail space below.

And then, he did it again! He has now designed, for the third time, a fabulous waterfall in a building. This time, it’s in Singapore’s airport, and is called Jewel Changi Airport. In 2014, Safdie won the international

36

THE WINTER ISSUE

competition to design the airport’s transportation hub. Under construction for five years, Jewel Changi Airport, which opened in the spring of 2019, is linked to three passenger terminals. The indoor waterfall – called the Rain Vortex – is the centrepiece that is surrounded by a forest. Jewel also has gardens, a hotel, and more than 300 retail outlets and dining facilities.

“It has a massive positive impact on air conditioning, on climate control; the garden is absolutely lush. Hundreds of thousands of people a day are coming into that building.

It’s just caught the public imagination in a way that I’ve never experienced, not even with Habitat. It’s very satisfying,” Safdie says of Jewel.

Take a naturally occurring rain, or condensation, in a place where the weather creates this phenomenon, and use it to the advantage of the architecture to create a unique architectural feature. That is Safdie, bestowing his vision upon the world. –>

ARCHITECTURE • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

“When an architect does his job well, in a profound sense, what comes out you can call art.”

THE WINTER ISSUE

37

ARCHITECTURE

athomeincanada.ca

Yad Vashem Holocaust History Museum Photo courtesy of Timothy Hursley

“When I design a major commercial centre for the airport, I end up making it one of the most famous gardens in the world, which doesn’t take away from the fact that it’s a great marketplace,” he says. “Side by side, there’s nature and the bazaar.”

“I think if you set out to create art, it’s going to be a fiasco. Architecture is a physical environment. If the architect does it well, materials come together: the space, the light, everything that constitutes architecture. The word art is very complicated for me because it is subject to a lot of interpretation. When an architect does his job well, in a profound sense, what comes out you can call art.”

As our interview draws to a close, Safdie looks at me and says: “I used to think: Why can’t Mozart just sit down and write a string quartet? But no, he had to have it commissioned by this or that. And I think architecture is that way too. If I was to design my own project, I would probably go back to the original Habitat. We only built a small piece of it; the mixed use was never realized.

In some ways, I’ve addressed that in Chongqing and other projects, but to do it in a more holistic way, a village? That would be great for a finale.”

“The challenge is not just to architects but to planners and our leaders.”

Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art Photo courtesy of Timothy Hursley

National Gallery of Canada

38

THE WINTER ISSUE

ARCHITECTURE • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

Yad Vashem Holocaust History Museum Photo courtesy of Timothy Hursley

I muse: “If I dare say, what you’re saying is: Let’s create a better world, basically what you have been trying to design since Habitat?”

And Safdie, an optimist, just like all the great designers, creators, dreamers and visionaries that I have had the honour and privilege to meet in this amazing series, says to me: “Well.

I guess that is part of it. There are days when I am distressed, but I never give up because I am an optimist. I walk though some cities and I say ‘Why? Why this ugliness? Why this congestion? Why this irrationality?’ The challenge is not just to architects but to planners and our leaders.”

I hope that with the great visions and plans already shown to us by Moshe Safdie in so many beautiful spaces and places, we can all at least imagine what the world can be like in the future.

THE WINTER ISSUE

39

Closets • Doors • Cabinets Glass Partition Walls

Call or visit our website for information on our new European Acoustic Wall System.

FACTORY SHOWROOM 863 Rangeview Rd., Mississauga 905-766-0880 | 1-877-541-3667 IMPROVE CANADA SHOWROOM 7250 Keele Street #87, Vaughan 905-636-1968 www.komandor.ca

www.komandor.ca

DESIGN

SLEEK INTEGRATION OF OLD AND NEW Original elements in a century-old home are preserved while the structure is updated for contemporary life

BY DONNA NEBENZAHL PHOTOGRAPHY: MAXIME BROUILLET

THE CENTURY-OLD SEMI-DETACHED house in Montreal’s Notre Dame de Grace neighbourhood was solid and comfortable.

But the interiors were a warren of small, dark rooms when the homeowners approached the architects at la SHED Architecture about reimagining it. The couple wanted more natural light and a sense of expansiveness for themselves and their three children, all young adults.

“They have many memories in this house,” says architect Sébastien Parent, of the la SHED team. “They wanted to preserve the spirit of their home, but they also wanted change.” –>

42

THE WINTER ISSUE

athomeincanada.ca

DESIGN • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

THE WINTER ISSUE

43

DESIGN

athomeincanada.ca

Change is what they got, in the form of glass walls and railings, contemporary red oak flooring and staircases to match the original walls and floors, custom-designed bathroom fixtures, and a massive, light-filled kitchen that delights the family and visitors. It was a major job, says Parent, whose Montreal-based firm has award-winning expertise in the transformation of the city’s older row houses and duplexes. “When the house was finished, they saw that it was another house, but it had integrated the original elements of the period,” he says.

Limestone stairs link the lower and upper terraces while the new stucco facade meets original brick taken from the back of the house.

44

THE WINTER ISSUE

DESIGN • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

It began with the fine woodwork, which was restored by hand and, whenever possible, repurposed in another space. The “masterpiece” of the house, the Arts and Crafts staircase with its fine bannister details and solid columns, floats onto the main floor and is mirrored in the simple red-oak risers leading to the lower floor. Custom-made glass partitions allow the staircase to be viewed from the home’s new section, while thick slatted flooring, also in red oak, marks the entry and invites light into the upper and lower floors.

The floating staircase connects the elements, which include simple oak moldings around the doors as well as the large window at the end of the dining room. The room’s impressive panelling was carefully restored, and the window was installed to give the impression that there is no frame. “We wanted to give a contemporary intervention here,” Parent says, “at the same time offering texture,

The Arts and Crafts staircase, a centrepiece of the house, is echoed by a new minimalist version that descends to the basement level.

THE WINTER ISSUE

45

DESIG N

(Above) The kitchen island, clad in Corian and designed by la SHED, extends into a large table and mirrors the sleek lines of the cabinetry. All appliances: Miele.

“The beauty of this project is the uniformity of material.”

46

THE WINTER ISSUE

athomeincanada.ca

(Right) The small bathroom marries minimalist material with a century-old red-oak built-in closet, repurposed from the second-floor hallway.

like the original elements of the house.” –> The colour palette also combines old and new, including Carrara marble flooring adjacent to red oak, and soft whites throughout. A small bathroom exemplifies the connection; here a contemporary sink and tiled walls contrast with a red-oak linen closet, moved from another floor of the home.

The extra-large kitchen is put to good use by the homeowner, who is an expert cook and often entertains. No handles are visible on the minimalist cabinetry, designed by la SHED in wood overlaid with aluminum. A Corian countertop extends into a large, sleek

DESIGN • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

table.

A central hub of the house, the kitchen features floors in hexagonal Carrara marble tiles, like those in the entryway. It offers great views of the back-courtyard garden.

Bathroom fixtures were also designed by la SHED, which created a trademark large window. It gives new meaning to the expression “bathed in light.”

“That is actually a window in the large bedroom beside that bathroom, so if the sliding door between the rooms is closed, there’s no view from the bathroom to the exterior,” Parent says. “If it’s open, then the light comes

The master bedroom’s floor-to-ceiling window creates a seamless flow between the indoors and outdoors. Custom-made bed: la SHED; Nelson Coconut chair: Vitra.

THE WINTER ISSUE

47

DESIGN

athomeincanada.ca

in, lots of light.” –> The staircase to the basement, painted wood with red oak steps and risers, opens into another expansive space, with under-heated concrete floors and a small piazza for viewing the back garden. The homeowner wanted to use the basement as a place for games and fun, Parent says, so it includes a pool table and television. “We wanted to give the impression of another complete floor of the house,” he says. A small soaking pool just outside the tall glass doors is a magical place, offering a basin

(Below) Glass walls with recessed frames invite the outdoors in on the basement level, which has its own outdoor terrace and small office.

48

THE WINTER ISSUE

DESIGN • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

for quiet reflection.

In the backyard, the architects optimized the sensation of a lot of greenery, the design bringing to mind an English courtyard with soft plantings punctuated by limestone stairs, and a walkway in red cedar to recall the grid patterns in the house.

Covering the new sections of the house in pale stucco brought a textured element to the structure. It accentuates the contrast between

athomeincanada.ca

old and new while linking the two with a terrace and walls that incorporate original bricks from the back of the house. In the front, the original brick facade was cleaned and the original doors, windows and balcony were restored.

All of the custom-made pieces, fixtures, woodwork and furniture were designed carefully to complement the aspects of the home that were conserved, Parent says. “The

beauty of this project is the uniformity of material.” Their vision was also appreciated by the architectural community: in 2017, the home received an award from the Order of Architects of Quebec; in 2018, it won the Grand Prix du Design from a jury “charmed by the elegance of the design and its great respect to heritage and value.”

THE WINTER ISSUE

49

Canada’s Ultimate Destination Today’s Finest Contemporary & Most Up-to-Date Collections

32 stores

linenchest.com

Canadian owned

Leaside Village (Toronto) 416-425-0533 • Richmond (Toronto) 416-260-2158 • Stockyards (Toronto) 416-760-9704 • Erin Mills Power Centre (Mississauga) 905-828-4449 Heartland Town Centre (Mississauga) 905-502-5399 • Colossus Power Centre (Vaughan) 905-856-6430 • Westwood Power Center (London) 519-680-2615

DESIGN

athomeincanada.ca

WALLFLOWERS NO MORE Thanks to new technologies, today’s wallpapers are artistic and original, and they make dazzling design statements

BY ELISABETH KALBFUSS PHOTOGRAPHY: KEN HUNT

Murals, especially those with large floral motifs, have become increasingly popular. (Above) Blush Floral, a pattern by Anewall, is installed in a dining room. (Right) Katie Hunt installs a Phillip Jeffries pattern, Blur, a digital print on manila hemp grasscloth, on a bedroom accent wall.

FOR A COUPLE OF DECADES, wallpaper was the home-decor equivalent of the schoolyard outcast: snubbed and ignored, and spending most of its time hiding out at grandma’s house. Since then, wallpaper has had a gradual and serious makeover, suddenly becoming the most popular, best-dressed kid in class. Think hand-painted, artisanal, designer. Think Gucci.

Just as technological advances remake our smartphones every year, they’ve led to similar upgrades in wall coverings. “European technology has really changed the way we wallpaper today,” says Katie Hunt, a wallpaper

52

THE WINTER ISSUE

installer and the owner of Toronto-based Katie’s Wallpaper Installation. “The technology behind it has drawn it to the forefront.”

There are two main reasons. New substrates – the “paper” in wallpaper, the material that the designs are printed on – have come on the market made of multiple fibres and layers, making a whole new range of design effects possible. The second reason is the rise of digital printing. “You see lots of murals now, things that are custom, not like rolls of wallpaper sitting in a warehouse,” Hunt says. “You can print on demand and ship worldwide.”

DESIGN • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

Because of their modest dimensions, powder rooms and foyers are a great place to start experimenting with wallpaper, says Katie Hunt of Katie’s Wallpaper Installation. (Top, left) River, by Emma Hayes.

(Top, right) Foggy Hills, by Anewall. (Bottom, left) The entryway panel is by de Gournay; it’s a hand-painted design called Badminton on white-gold leaf.

It’s led to an explosion of new designs, materials, textures: grasscloths made of natural fibres, metallics, geometrics, florals, murals – across all price-points, from the big box stores and online home retailers to specialty workshops that hand-paint designs to order and ship them worldwide. That easy ability to order custom, one-of-a-kind looks or iconic fashion-house designs, such as Gucci’s tiger, has made wallpaper especially popular with designers.

“Florals have made this gigantic comeback,” Hunt says. Especially popular are large floral murals, often on black or dark backgrounds, or more monochromatic

f loral-inspired murals with a watercolour-wash effect, brands such as Ellie Cashman, Anewall, Emma Hayes. “This is not your grandmother’s wallpaper.”

Contemporary designs are very artsy, she says. “They use watercolours, they layer paper, it has so much more depth and character that old papering just couldn’t do. Digital printing brings so much lifelikeness to them.”

Choosing a wallpaper can be a jumping off point for the design of a whole room: setting a mood, inspiring other colour and fabric choices. “You can build your whole colour scheme just from the sample, pick a blue or a soft pink out of it,” Hunt says. –>

THE WINTER ISSUE

53

DESIGN

athomeincanada.ca

Geometric designs are also in high demand. Prismatic (above), is a metallic design by York Wallcoverings on a kitchen accent wall. (Top, right) Gold Rivets by Phillip Jeffries, is manila hemp grasscloth featuring raised gold rivets. (Right) Nuvolette, a Cole and Son wallpaper is based on a design by Italian design atelier Fornasetti.

Another advantage of the new technologies, she adds, is that most wallpapers are washable, easy to clean, non-flammable, odourless, nontoxic, and VOC-free, a concern for clients who want to use wallpaper in a nursery or their young children’s rooms.

If you’re looking at online designs, Hunt recommends ordering a sample first, if it’s available, just to be sure. If you’re feeling tentative, she suggests starting small, doing a powder room or foyer, or one accent wall.

Many of the clients and designers she works with are going bold now, she says, doing whole rooms, entire houses in wallpaper. It’s also showing up in places it never used to be – on ceilings, for example. “Ceilings are one of the places where I think we’ll see more (wallpapering),” she says. “Not everything will work on a ceiling though.”

54

THE WINTER ISSUE

DESIGN • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

Ellie Cashman wallpaper is known for its large-scale florals on dark backgrounds. The design on the top left is Dark Floral, shown in an entryway. A powder room, (top, right) has a vinyl wall covering by Phillip Jeffries called Gold Emblem. (Bottom) Katie Hunt chose another Phillip Jeffries design, Wood Veneer, for her own front entry.

As someone who spends her days and makes her living installing wallpaper, Hunt says there are advantages to having a professional do it for you. Those oversize patterns and murals can make installation tricky – they come in numbered rolls and there aren’t any pattern repeats; messing up can cost you.

Older-style products still come pre-pasted and need to be soaked, making it difficult to hide seams. The European-style substrates go on more seamlessly, but the paste must be applied to the wall first, then paper added.

Wall preparation is also important: in new construction, walls need a primer and at least two coats of paint first. Using a sealer will make eventual removal much easier. Some companies make tintable primers specifically for coloured wallpapers.

There are professional hazards to hanging wallpaper for a living, Hunt says, it can get addictive. She often gets tempted by new designs she sees and regularly repapers rooms in her own home. She put her latest find, a Phillip Jeffries wood-veneer geometric pattern, in her foyer. “Yes,” she laughs. “My whole house is papered.”

THE WINTER ISSUE

55

DESIGN

MOUNTAIN M E E T S

MODERN Rustic details and contemporary touches marry well in a Banff home

BY PHILLIPA RISPIN PHOTOGRAPHY: JAMIE ANHOLT STYLING: KELLY MORRISON

MIKE Mendelman and JOLENE Brewster have good taste. That statement can be taken literally: Mike is a restaurateur with 15 restaurants in Banff, and Jolene has her own company importing and blending teas.

But it’s also demonstrated figuratively in the attractive yet relaxed and unpretentious decor of their most recent home in Banff, achieved with the help of FRANK Architecture & Interiors.

When the couple, their two young children and Blu, their black German shepherd, needed to move two years ago, their choice of houses was limited. The housing market in Banff is unique, governed by a “need to reside” policy, since the town is within the confines of a national park.

As a result, says Mike, “there are no holiday homes, no second and third homes owned by [non-residents]. The market is driven by people who live and work in Banff. There’s a rental market for those who work in the hospitality industry, but [when it comes to ownership] most properties are generational.

They don’t often hit the market; instead, they get passed down. –>

56

THE WINTER ISSUE

athomeincanada.ca

DESIGN • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

THE WINTER ISSUE

57

DESIGN

“When Jolene and I were looking, there were few very nice recently built single homes in Banff, and only three or four streets that offer single-family homes,” Mike says. This house was built in the 1990s with a design aesthetic of that period — in a word, it was dated. But they could see beyond the surface.

“We walked around this house probably 10 times,” he says. “We really do like the bones, and I love the feel of this property. It checked a lot of boxes, for good views, good location, not being a teardown.”

The house might not have been a teardown in the strictest sense but, while the exterior was left barely changed during the renovation, the interior’s 3,000 square feet

58

THE WINTER ISSUE

athomeincanada.ca

were gutted and rebuilt with more efficient heating and infrastructure. In its newest incarnation, the home has three bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms upstairs. The bi-level main floor is comprised of a great room, kitchen, and guest bedroom. The walkout basement features a small rec room.

To propel their newly purchased home’s design into the current millennium, Mike and Jolene turned to Kelly Morrison, principle and founding partner of Calgary-based FRANK Architecture & Interiors. The company had designed Mike’s last four restaurants. “We have a really good working relationship,” says Mike. “They really listen. I think they produce great work.”

One end of the great room hosts a comfortable seating area for conversation. Blu, the family’s beloved German shepherd, lounges near the fireplace.

“The home is an eclectic space, very Banff, not pristine and polished,”

DESIGN • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

Morrison and team were tasked with producing a home in what Mike and Jolene call “mountain modern style.” The designer trod a careful line: honouring the couples’ wishes for a contemporary Banff style while avoiding the clichés of traditional Western decor, all the while incorporating elements that reference their backgrounds and lifestyle. –>

(Below left) The electric fireplace features patinated metal below the mantel, and plaster above. These smooth surfaces make a striking contrast with the vintage skis and rough-hewn mantel.

THE WINTER ISSUE

59

DESIGN

Morrison’s design doesn’t entirely eschew classic architectural details from the area. The great room is long and linear, with wooden beams to define areas. These are rustic timber accents, but they’re not the standard pale, peeled-pine poles; rather, they’re squared-off dark-stained wood. “The construction crew hand-sawed those posts to get a textured, rugged finish,” Morrison says. Mike adds, “A very talented European craftsman worked for [what seemed like] 100 days in a row, eight to 10 hours a day, chiselling away at squaring the logs.”

60

THE WINTER ISSUE

athomeincanada.ca

There’s more texture underfoot from deeply grooved old flooring salvaged from Montana. At Jolene’s instigation, a chair with a curvy frame hangs in one corner of the great room. Fake-fur pillows are scattered on various sofas and chairs.

In the kitchen, the black La Cornue stove’s trim is a striking element, while pulls and doors have a tactile finish for a rustic feeling.

The dining room banquette is upholstered with a textured Pendleton blanket, and the dining table has rabbeted joints and a rustic-looking finish. –>

DESIGN • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

At the other end of the great room is what Morrison calls “a library space, somewhere for quiet moments.” The pony wall stretching beyond the fireplace, separating the living area and the raised kitchen, is a feature from the house’s original design. It provides a convenient place to accommodate the television.

THE WINTER ISSUE

61

DESIGN

There’s no Western-style overkill, however.

For instance, in the stairwell, the white-painted shiplap walls share their linear effect with the stairway’s handrail and balusters, but the stairway elements are square, black powder-coated metal.

This black-and-white scheme continues, in a slight departure from the public rooms’ aesthetic, in the master bathroom. Here the style is sparer, brighter and high-contrast.

Nonetheless, it does have touches that tie in nicely with the rest of the home. The black plumbing fixtures reference the La Cornue stove downstairs and have just enough curves and detail to hark back to more traditional styles. The substantial vanity is wood, which, along with slightly retro-looking sconces, warms up the room.

62

THE WINTER ISSUE

athomeincanada.ca

DESIGN • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

(Opposite) The kitchen’s ventilation hood was custom-made to complement the La Cornue range. “We seem to spend 100 per cent of our life in the kitchen,” Mike says. “It’s so easy to hang out there, to cook, be social.”

(Left) The ensuite master bathroom carries on the blackand-white theme. Hexagonal Carrara marble floor tiles provide a luxurious touch against the rugged surface of the vanity. (Above) The dining room banquette is upholstered with a textured Pendleton blanket.

“The home is an eclectic space, very Banff, not pristine and polished,” Morrison says.

Mike adds, “Design is something Jolene and I are both passionate about. In Banff there are very few modern takes on mountain homes.”

Referencing the details such as the dark squared-off posts in the great room, he says, “It’s a highlight, that juxtaposition of warm mountain aesthetic married with modern.

Without that, I don’t think the project would have been so successful.”

THE WINTER ISSUE

63

Cold Outside... Warm Inside New in Electric, the Toasty Comfort of Runtal Radiators Can Now Be Enjoyed by All!

Wall Panels

Towel Radiators

Baseboards

has long been world-renowned as the premium manufacturer of Euro-style radiators for hot water and steam heating systems.

We are pleased to introduce a Runtal Electric line that includes Wall Panel, Towel Radiator and Baseboard designs.

Suitable for both retro-fit and new construction, Runtal Electric products provide a very efficient and comfortable radiant heat.

They are an excellent source of primary or supplemental heat and a problem-solver for areas needing additional heat.

They are attractive (available in over 100 colors), durable, quiet and easy to install.

To view Runtal’s complete line of heating products, please visit our showroom in Oakville, Ontario Canada; M-F 9-5 or by appointment and online at: www.runtalnorthamerica.com.

Our Showroom is located at: 2861 Sherwood Heights Drive, Unit 21, Oakville, Ontario Canada. Tel: 905-829-4943

DESIGN

JUST

RIGHT Jewelry designer Dalia Lash helps clients find the perfect pieces to suit their style

BY SUSAN KELLY

66

THE WINTER ISSUE

athomeincanada.ca

DALIA LASH, DIRECTOR of MARK LASH Fine Jewelry in Toronto, feels most at home behind a counter filled with sparkling jewelry.

And she finds some similarity between the worlds of decor and jewelry. “Just as no room is complete without the right accessories, no one is really dressed until they have the right jewelry,” she says.

Her affinity for this most personal of accessories may come naturally. Dalia is the third generation in a family of jewelers, a graduate gemologist and a designer with the soul of a stylist.

Most days, she can be found at the Eglinton Avenue store she opened in 1989 with with her business partner, Laurie Goodman.

Dalia has found that guiding customers is the most satisfying part of her job. It might involve sourcing a beautiful diamond, gemstone or vintage treasure, selecting a dazzler from the showcase, or quickly sketching an idea for a custom creation. She says she lives for the moments when she witnesses a customer light up, accompanied by expressions to the effect: “It’s perfect; not only is it right for the occasion, but it reflects who I am.”

DESIGN • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

The biggest change over the past 30 years in the jewelry industry is how often inquiries come in and consultations are conducted long-distance, she says. “In a world where the global consumer is online and style is driven by the pulse of social media, it is frequent for my team and me to assist clients from afar.” Consider the customer from Boston who reached out about MARK LASH earrings. Which of the options on the website or Instagram would suit her? Dalia asked the customer about her taste and lifestyle and requested a photo of her. Once she had a sense of the customer’s personal style, she emailed photos of three options, of which one proved ideal.

It was a similar interaction that allowed New York-based CNN anchor Don Lemon and his partner, Tim Malone, to create custom-made MARK LASH commitment bands.

While announcing his engagement on CNN, Lemon broadcast a glowing review about the personalized design, created by Mark Lash himself. It sparked a flurry of inquiries to the jeweler from across Canada and the US. The bespoke pieces and collections are handcrafted locally at the company’s stateof-the-art workshop in Richmond Hill, under the direction of Mark Lash. It’s home to a platinum studio, a showroom that’s open to the public, and a team of jewellers, designers and gemologists. –>

THE WINTER ISSUE

67

DESIGN

athomeincanada.ca

Just as homes have become less formal, Dalia says, “Today, it is about having pieces that suit the way you really live, that go from morning meetings at the office to cocktails at the end of the day.”

68

THE WINTER ISSUE

She is up on the latest trends, and believes that the best pieces are the ones “we live in.”

An engagement ring, for example, is one of her favourite milestone purchases that she designs, to be cherished for years.

DESIGN • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

There are plenty of stylish options at the store, often inspired by Dalia’s love of fashion.

Take the craze, driven by high-fashion designers, of necklaces that resemble paper-clip chains. The MARK LASH team was quick to come up with a version in gold (rose, white, or yellow), and added interchangeable carabineers and detachable charms for versatility.

Repurposing is a growing trend in home decor. But this designer has been doing it with jewelry for decades, converting out-of-date pieces into something current.

“There’s so much you can do to update a piece and make it fit your style,” says Dalia, “and sometimes, it’s just a question of mixing the older pieces with the newer ones to give them life again.”

Dalia Lash, Designer Mark Lash Fine Jewelry 480 Eglinton Ave. W., Toronto ~ 416-256-5229 9033 Leslie St., Richmond Hill ~ 905-881-5229 www.marklash.com

THE WINTER ISSUE

69

LIFESTYLE

COFFEE KLATCH

Consider these new and improved brewing options before buying a coffee maker

BY JULIE GEDEON

70

THE WINTER ISSUE

athomeincanada.ca

OUR LARGE COFFEEMAKER seemed a good idea at half price a few years ago, but it collects more dust than it brews espressos or cappuccinos for our household or guests.

Truth be told, I’m not a morning person; I need my coffee without having to think about its preparation. And the machine’s novelty has worn off for my once barista-wannabe spouse.

I now wish I had explored all of the options before making any purchase, which is exactly what Isabelle Harvey, the director of regional sales at the Linen Chest, advises. “There’s a wide range of quality choices, but it really depends on your needs and preferences,” she says.

The first thing to consider is the amount of coffee a household or office actually consumes. “Coffeemakers that use capsules are really popular because they’re so fast and convenient, but they become expensive if you drink more than three cups daily,” Harvey says.

With costs ranging from almost $6 to $11 for 10 to 12 capsules, coffee purchases can add up to more than $50 a pound. “You could end up spending $1,500 yearly if you’re not careful,” she warns. “However, the convenience is worth it to those who want that one perfect cup on the run in the morning, or a variety of good coffee always at the ready in seconds for visitors.”

LIFESTLE • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

For others, it’s a question of not only budget but tastes. “Do you just want a nicely filtered coffee?” Harvey asks. “Or do you want the ability to whip up some milk for a cappuccino or macchiato?”

If you have time and inclination, handpressed filter coffee pots make the most of good quality, freshly ground beans. “They’re for people who enjoy lounging in the morning over a newspaper or regard coffee as important as the wine they serve during a special meal,” Harvey says. “They’re also the most environmentally friendly option.”

For those with a less artisanal lifestyle, push-of-a-button options have come a long way in terms of improved technology. You want a quick filtered cup? You’ve got it! You’d prefer a latte, or perhaps a hot chocolate, or even tea? No problem.

“These multifaceted units take up more space but do almost everything,” Harvey says. “They also have conveniences such as removable containers to refrigerate frothed milk for later use.”

Another consideration is how easy the better machines are to clean. All of this is explained in detail by Harvey and her Linen Chest associates.

She also made me realize that we’re not wedded to one coffeemaker. I can save my existing machine for when the barista spirit recaptures my husband’s inclinations, but I can also shop for a push-of-a-button model to face mornings. And a hand-pressed filter pot would be nice for book club.

THE WINTER ISSUE

71

GENDRON C

O

N

chocolatgendron.com

F

I

S

E

U

R

f chocolat gendron

C

H

O

C

O

L

A

T

gendronconďŹ seurchocolat@qc.aira.com

I

E

R

450-646-6001

DESIGN

athomeincanada.ca

ENHANCING TH E V I E W Luxury materials and contemporary design highlight city vistas and make this condo an engaging space

BY JULIE GEDEON PHOTOGRAPHY: MIKE CHAJECKI STYLING: SHIVA KHALILNIA, GRECIA GALLO AND CINTYA CASTELLANOS

74

THE WINTER ISSUE

DESIGN • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

THE WINTER ISSUE

75

DESIGN

Gilded butterflies form the custom knobs of the tea/coffee station with a faux snakeskin fabric on the cabinet doors. The living room’s candle holders are also a golden colour. A subtle repeat of elements throughout the condo showcases the homeowner’s style while tying the overall design together.

76

THE WINTER ISSUE

athomeincanada.ca

DESIGN • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

Greater height and depth are projected in the living room with a hand-painted backdrop that seems to leap off the wall in a three-dimensional way and adds a touch of softness to the room’s weighty furnishings without being too flowery. The oval mirror over the fireplace reflects the room’s natural light and echoes the condo’s entrance.

A RICH BUT DELICATE GLOW permeates the design of this high-rise Toronto condo, blending masculine elements with sleek, transitional design. The result is a grand space for luxurious entertaining, along with family comforts and fun.

“This condo is the first time my client has ventured away from traditional decor, so it was essential to incorporate familiar elements, but with a lighter visual weight,” says the designer of the space, Shiva Khalilnia.

A shimmer of silver-leaf raffia off the foyer’s discreet console, along with a whimsical pouf seat announce the many textures to come. The geometric playfulness is likewise introduced with the varied lines of the console’s lamp and oval mirror. “Part of the den’s artwork reflects beautifully in the bottom half,” adds Khalilnia, the owner of Import Temptations, a Toronto showroom store specializing in furnishings, lighting, accessories, and interior design.

The abundance of natural light and spectacular views become apparent with one step into the condo’s main living space. Floorto-ceiling windows showcase the cityscape from a 64th-storey vantage point down to the waterfront. “While there are blinds, the sheer curtains suffice most of the time to cut the sun’s glare while maintaining the view,” Khalilnia says. “A silver fabric trim anchors the sheers.”

Everything is arranged to enhance the view. “I chose a lower profile so that sightlines aren’t obstructed,” she says. “I also created sitting areas by the windows so guests can just relax as they enjoy the magnificent skyline.” –>

THE WINTER ISSUE

77

DESIGN

athomeincanada.ca

Visitors are drawn into the living room by the grandeur of the hand-painted leafy backdrop on the far wall that gives the space a sense of elegance. “Every palm was carefully positioned to complement the marble consoles in front of the canvas,” Khalilnia says. The pattern adds a feminine touch to the bold black sofas and the coffee table without being too dainty.

The sofas are further softened with a myriad of brightly patterned throw pillows.

Gilded and glittering accessories catch the eye throughout the room with their textured elegance. “Accessories – those small touches ref lecting a homeowner’s tastes – are as important as the larger pieces in defining a space, if not more so,” Khalilnia says. “And I just love how the beautiful books on the coffee table and consoles invite people to pick one up and flip through its pages.”

“Everything works in harmony.”

78

THE WINTER ISSUE

DESIGN • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

(Above) Artist Teng Fei’s oversized vase canvas defines the billiards space with all other elements playing off its gilded features. The customized pool table contrasts brightly against the herringbone walnut flooring.

The client’s husband has a passion for billiards. This led to a custom-made pool table with a white lacquered finish. “We had to design it to make it visually light enough for the space,” Khalilnia says. The beige felt matches the nearby sofa with its embracing curves.

“Everything works off Teng Fei’s textured art,” she says. “The lacquered white, soft beige, and hints of gold throughout the room lift the pool table off the dark herringbone floor so that the overall look is a balance of masculine and feminine.” –>

THE WINTER ISSUE

79

DESIGN

80

THE WINTER ISSUE

athomeincanada.ca

DESIGN • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

The customized length of the “Lady in Blue” by artist Selleck, along with the sleek consoles, table, and unique lighting make a “wow” statement in the dining area.

The acrylic backgammon table by the window is accompanied by a gold-coloured pillar table, ideal for setting down a drink or snack.

The side seating encourages family and friends to gather for a game without blocking the view in the manner that a conventional bar and stools would do. It’s also grandchildren-friendly.

A lacquered white finish on the long dining table is elevated with a gold trim, creating the illusion of occupying less space, especially with everyone’s attention grabbed by Selleck’s adjacent stunning artwork. “We had to frame the custom-made art onsite because of its length,” Khalilnia says. “The chandelier is another labour of love with us combining two fixtures to create the required length.”

Slim consoles provide buffet space without traditional bulk. The dining table’s acrylic footings complement the nearby backgammon table, where a touch of gold again grounds the space. “I wanted the uniqueness of each piece to show without any of the elements competing for attention,” Khalilnia says. “Everything works in harmony.”

The outcome is a condo with holiday and/ or simple weekend coziness for the whole family, along with enough space for 100-plus cocktail party guests. “I’m so glad that my client trusted my vision and we were able to work together to create a contemporary space with beauty and functionality,” she says.

THE WINTER ISSUE

81

LIFESTYLE

HOLIDAY

GIFT GUIDE Find the right presents for those you love

BY TRACEY MACKENZIE

82

THE WINTER ISSUE

athomeincanada.ca

WHILE THE HOLIDAY SEASON is a magical time when we get together with family and friends, it can also be stressful. We want to bestow the right gifts on our loved ones, but finding them can be a challenge. Here’s a guide to help simplify your search.

LIFESTYLE • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

GI F T GU I DE

HOMEWARD BOUND The book Homebody: A Guide to Creating Spaces You Never Want to Leave shows us how to assess our own design aesthetic to create a home that reflects our personalities. Author Joanna Gaines of “Fixer Upper” fame gives readers an in-depth look at how to implement various styles room by room. Whether you’re a novice decorator or a seasoned pro, this book has tips for upping your style game.

Available at Indigo. www.indigo.ca

DOGGIE DNA If you’re interested in your pup’s past and pedigree, the Embark Breed + Health Kit, a dog DNA test, enables you to learn your dog’s breed, ancestry and health with a simple swab of its cheek. Find long-lost relatives using the canine relative finder, free with the purchase of this doggie DNA kit.

Available at Embark. www.embarkvet.com

JOY TO THE WORLD JOY, the new fragrance by Dior, has a warm floral scent combining keynotes of mandarin, sandalwood and white musk. Not too floral and not too sweet, this soft, uplifting scent is perfect for that special woman in your life.

Available at Sephora and The Bay. www.sephora.com, www.thebay.com

DAILY GRIND Elevate your morning coffee from ordinary to wow with the Bodum Bistro coffee grinder. Fully adjustable with 12 settings ranging from coarse to fine and a static-free borosilicate glass container to catch the grounds, this grinder will make your cup of joe one to remember.

Available at The Bay. www.thebay.com

THE WINTER ISSUE

83

LIFESTYLE

athomeincanada.ca

GI F T GU I DE

INTUITIVE INSTRUCTION Has your inner voice gone and left you without direction? Enter the Inner Compass cards by Neel van Lierop. This powerful deck of cards is designed around 49 life themes, incorporating Mayan culture, Buddhism, Taoism and the I Ching, to help you tap into your intuition. Select your cards and read the messages for guidance. Use the guidebook for an expanded explanation.

Available at Goop. www.goop.com

TIMELY GIFT Furthering the obsession with fitness watches, the new Apple Watch Series 4 has curved corners to allow for a larger and more efficient display. It’s perfect to help you become more active, healthy, and connected. Other features, such as the advanced heart-rate sensor, a crystal-clear display, and a GPS are sure to make this watch a favorite this holiday season.

Available at Apple. www.apple.com

CUSTOMIZABLE COLLECTION The new Gucci DIY collection allows you to customize your shoes with letter appliqués. Removable, individually constructed patches, come in a mix of colours and fabrics and may be personalized with your initials. Perfect for the fashionistas in your life. Shown is the DIY women’s Ace sneaker.

Available at Gucci. www.gucci.com

84

THE WINTER ISSUE

LIFESTYLE • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

GI F T GU I DE

ROSY RIEDEL The Amadeo Rosa decanter, designed by Stefan Umdasch, was introduced in 2006 and has since become one of the icons of Riedel’s collection.

Mouth-blown from crystal glass, the pink colour has been applied to a large portion of the decanter, giving it a new and contemporary design.

Perfect for wine lovers, this decanter also comes in Mento (a shade of green) and Grigio (grey).

Available at Linen Chest. www.linenchest.com

CHECKERED CHUM Nothing says Canada like a 12-inch moose plush toy hugging a red-check throw. Perfect for children and adults alike, this throw will add a touch of warmth to any family room. The throw measures 50 by 60 inches.

Available at Linen Chest. www.linenchest.com

SPIRITUAL SCENT The Edition 03 incense-scented candle from Goop will lift your spirits with a blend of mystical resins and forbidden spices. Frankincense is combined with juniper, black pepper, cardamom and cedar to form a one-of-a-kind mystical experience reminiscent of ancient times.

Available to Goop. www.goop.com

SPOT ON The Echo Spot is everything that you love about Alexa, housed in a new contemporary design with visual display. Not only can you ask Alexa for the weather, get the news, view your calendar or set an alarm, the Spot can also be personalized with a collection of clock faces and can make video calls to anyone with an Echo Spot or the Alexa app. There are built-in layers of protection and privacy controls, including a “microphone/camera off” button to electronically disconnect the microphones and camera.

Available at Amazon. www.amazon.ca

THE WINTER ISSUE

85

LIFESTYLE

athomeincanada.ca

GI F T GU I DE

HEART’S DESIRE The Lovebox Spinning Heart Messenger was designed by Jean Gregoire to send heartfelt messages to his fiancée in Paris while he was studying in the USA. Use the app to send your loved one a message, and the heart on the box will spin to alert them. Open the box to display the message. Return the virtual embrace by spinning the heart to send a shower of digital hearts to the sender’s screen.

Available at Uncommon Goods. www.uncommongoods.com

GOLF GUIDANCE Measuring distance to any point on the golf course (or off!) is easy with the Arccos Caddie Smart Sensors. Developed in partnership with Microsoft, Arccos Caddie offers artificial intelligence to provide advice based on your performance. Hands-free and fully automatic, this system is perfect for the golfer who wants to up his game.

Available at Amazon. www.amazon.ca

DIAMOND DOUBLE CUFFS Celebrate your love with these exquisite yellow gold, pear-shaped, diamond double cuff earrings. As easily paired with an elegant black dress as with a ball gown, these earrings will make a statement.

Available at Mark Lash. www.marklash.com

CONVECTION COOKING Heat up your leftover pizza with the Cuisinart Chef’s convection countertop oven. Boasting a non-stick interior, 15 cooking functions, speed settings and a heating power of 1875 watts, this oven will make preparing homemade meals a breeze. Big enough to accommodate a nine-pound chicken or a 13-inch pizza, it’s a convenient addition to a cook’s kitchen appliances.

Available at Walmart and The Bay. www.walmart.ca and www.thebay.com

86

THE WINTER ISSUE

LIFESTYLE • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

GI F T GU I DE

EMERALD ENVY These beautiful yellow gold, diamond and emerald drop earrings will make your special someone the object of envy. Perfect for an evening out with friends or a date night for two.

Available at Mark Lash. www.marklash.com

NOTEWORTHY NECKLACE Elegant and timeless, this yellow gold necklace with round and baguette diamonds will make you sparkle this holiday season.

Available at Mark Lash. www.marklash.com

LINKED LUXURY This attention-getting 18kt yellow gold and diamond link bracelet is as unique as it is eye-catching. Fine craftmanship and flawless design make it a signature piece.

Available at Mark Lash. www.marklash.com

THE MORE, THE MERRIER Beautifully cut, white gold and diamond rings really are a girl’s best friend – especially when they are in multiples. Wear them stacked or alone for a glamorous effect.

Available at Gloria Bass Design. www.gloriabassdesign.com

THE WINTER ISSUE

87

LIFESTYLE

athomeincanada.ca

GI F T GU I DE

TOP BRASS

TEXTURED AND TRENDY

These brass oval coasters by Slash Objects feature recycled rubber bases

This contemporary, textured bracelet by Gloria Bass is made of 18kt yellow

and may be used on both sides. Perfect for your glass and a small hors

gold and is accentuated with a small diamond circle for an added touch of

d’oeuvre or coffee and a spoon, these coasters are sure to make a splash.

sparkle.

The set of four is packaged in a beautiful matte black box with gold

Available at Gloria Bass Design.

lettering, ready for gifting.

www.gloriabassdesign.com

Available at Celadon Collection. www.celadoncollection.com

SCULPTURAL STONES This set of stackable Rock Candle Holders by Tom Dixon can be reconfigured to make a personalized sculptural design. Made of marble, each piece is as unique as it is beautiful. Comes in three sizes.

Available at Celadon Collection. www.celadoncollection.com

88

THE WINTER ISSUE

LIFESTYLE • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

GI F T GU I DE

SWEET DREAMS Inspired by travel and exploration, the newest collection from Maison Tess is an invitation to wander off to uncharted territory. Made from a blend of 45 per cent premium cotton and 55 per cent pure flax linen, this comfortable bedding is also Oeko-Tex-certified, hypoallergenic, part of the BCI (Better Cotton Initiative), and woven in Portugal.

Available at Maison Tess. www.maisontess.com

LOVELY LATTE The Caffitaly latte and milk frother allows you to prepare your favourite cappuccinos and lattes. You can also use it to make excellent iced coffees and iced cappuccinos with the cold-frothing function. Its unique magnetic drive system provides ease of use and ease of care. Made of non-stick stainless steel, it’s also available in black or white.

Available at Caffitaly Canada. www.caffitalycanada.com

COTTON COMFORTS Known to be the most breathable type of cotton, Maison Tess’s 100 per cent premium muslin cotton bedding is prewashed, very breathable and deliciously soft. It’s the perfect addition to a cozy bed in winter.

Available at Maison Tess. www.maisontess.com

THE WINTER ISSUE

89

TRAVEL

EXPLORING THE SANDS OF TIME Egypt is an enigmatic travel destination, replete with mysterious ancient history and monuments TEXT AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY LA CARMINA

90

THE WINTER ISSUE

athomeincanada.ca

I’VE BEEN FASCINATED by Egypt since childhood. Tales of the ancient civilization – a land of cunning queens, cat worship and mummies – grabbed my imagination. After decades of dreaming, I took the leap and booked a flight to Cairo.

A few friends expressed concern about the safety of my upcoming adventure. I assured them I was minimizing risks by joining a group tour and sticking to the ancient wonders along the Nile River. From the moment I arrived in the country, I felt secure at all times.

TRAVEL • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

From a viewpoint at Muhammad Ali Mosque, you can spot the Pyramids of Giza rising above Cairo. The Nile River Valley has been inhabited for 8,000 years, creating a vivid contrast between the ancient structures and urban sprawl, populated by 9.5 million.

I recommend flying to Cairo and joining a one- or two-week tour of such major sites as Luxor and Aswan. I booked a 12-day journey with Travel Talk Tours that included hotels, bus transportion and entry fees. Travellers might also opt to cruise along the Nile, or hire a private guide and driver.

In the winter and spring, Egypt is pleasantly warm and the archeological sites are not teeming with tourists. Temperatures dropped at night, making me glad I had packed a jacket.

On the first day, my group travelled from Cairo to nearby Saqqara, where we gazed at one of the earliest pyramids. Built for Pharaoh Djoser, the impressive stepped structure has survived more than 4,500 years. –>

THE WINTER ISSUE

91

TRAVEL

athomeincanada.ca

Onward to the Pyramids of Giza, where I was dazzled by the sight of Khufu, Khafre and Menkaure rising from the sand. To this day, archaeologists aren’t certain how the millions of stones, each as tall as my shoulders, were moved into place. Inside Khufu, the largest of the pyramids, I scuttled up steep ramps that led to a chamber containing a sarcophagus.

I’ve seen the Great Sphinx many times in photos, but nothing comes close to meeting the mythical man-lion in person. He’s lost his nose over the centuries, and his lips remain sealed as to why he was sculpted and by whom.

I could feel a palpable energy at the Great Pyramids, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The triangular shape represents the sun’s rays, or the primordial mound from which Egyptians believe life originated.

92

THE WINTER ISSUE

TRAVEL • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

Back in Cairo, I was eager to visit the Museum of Antiquities, which houses 120,000 relics. My fascination with mummification grew when I encountered rows of sarcophagi with carved faces, and canopic jars for the viscera of the dead. In the Mummy Room, I saw the shriveled but remarkably preserved bodies of Seti I, Akhenaten and other rulers.

–>

“I felt as if I had travelled back in time. “

THE WINTER ISSUE

93

TRAVEL

athomeincanada.ca

My group drove south to Luxor, Egypt’s capital in the Middle and New Kingdoms. Everyone was entranced by Karnak, a sprawling temple for Amun-Re. Strolling past ram-headed sphinxes and walls of ankhs, I felt as if I had travelled back in time. Across the Nile at Hatshepsut’s mortuary, I admired portraits of the revolutionary queen who wore a false beard, and held the crook and flail.

Luxor Temple is best viewed at night, when the colossal statues are hauntingly illuminated against the dark sky. It’s remarkable that the ancients could execute such impressive architecture, including a courtyard framed by towering likenesses of Ramses II.

In ancient Egypt, art served the purpose of honouring gods and rulers, and easing the dead’s journey to the afterlife. Today, we can appreciate these exquisite sculptures and bas reliefs for art’s sake.

94

THE WINTER ISSUE

TRAVEL • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

In the Valley of the Kings, the tombs are decorated with vivid scenes of daily life, as well as the pantheon of gods. Scholars were unable to read hieroglyphics until the discovery of the Rosetta Stone in 1799. Today, we know how each symbol corresponds to a sound; the owl represents “M” for example.

Be sure to visit the Valley of the Kings: more than 60 tombs, including that of King Tutankhamun, lie beneath the mountains.

Most of us think of hieroglyphics as colourless, but as I explored these burial chambers, I discovered they were originally painted in brilliant shades.

In the passageways of the dead, I saw the full pantheon of Egypt’s strange gods.

Many of us can identify Horus the falcon and jackal-headed Anubis of the underworld.

However, I was astonished by Khepri, who has an eerie black scarab for a head, and Khnum the ram, whose horns inspired the depiction of Baphomet. –>

THE WINTER ISSUE

95

TRAVEL

Further south in Aswan, my group learned about the Ptolemaic era, which ended with the death of Cleopatra VII and the fall of Egypt to Rome. At Philae and Edfu temples, I noted the Hellenistic influence in the fluted columns and voluptuous carvings of Egyptian goddesses. At Kom Ombo, I was astonished by a collection of mummified crocodiles baring sharp teeth, in honor of the god Sobek.

It was worth waking up at 3:30 a.m. to reach Abu Simbel before sunrise. This otherworldly temple was carved into the side of a mountain, and was lost to the sands until a boy rediscovered it in the early 1800s. I felt as small as a mouse, beneath four gargantuan seated statues of the great Ramses II. Next door, a smaller temple for queen Nefertari was decorated floor-to-ceiling with elegant paintings of goddesses.

I also rose before dawn for a hot air balloon ride over Luxor. From up in the air, I could see temple ruins illuminated by the rising sun, and stretches of desert reminiscent of an alien planet. I spent that afternoon sailing the Nile in a felucca, or traditional wood boat, just as sailors did in ancient times.

(Below) Abu Simbel was originally carved from the side of a mountain in the 13th century BCE. In the 1960s, the kingly statues were at risk of being submerged during the construction of the Aswan High Dam. Archaeologists carefully relocated the entire complex to higher ground, where it stands today.

96

THE WINTER ISSUE

athomeincanada.ca

TRAVEL • HOME IN CANADA •

2019

athomeincanada.ca

Throughout the trip, I enjoyed simple local meals, such as kofta kebabs, harira lentil soup with lemon slices, and falafel with fresh pita, parsley and tomatoes. My most memorable dinner was home-cooked by a family of Nubians, or descendants of the people of southern Egypt and Sudan. It was a joy to learn about their distinct traditions while feasting on curries with okra and herbs, and bite-sized mandazi doughnuts.

Egypt is an extraordinary destination for anyone who adores history, archeology and culture. To this day, researchers are digging up baffling treasures, and discovering new depths to the knowledge of the ancients.

Although we may never unlock all of Egypt’s mysteries, a journey here will leave you in awe at the possibilities.

IF YOU GO Getting There: Toronto has a direct flight to Cairo on EgyptAir. Departures from Montreal require a stop in a European city, such as London, Paris or Frankfurt. Tickets cost between $1,100 and $1,350 CDN, with a flight time of 14-21 hours, depending on the city of origin.

Canadians must purchase a $25 USD visa on arrival at the airport.

Ground Travel: I recommend joining a guided group tour, for the sake of ease and safety. Travel Talk Tours’s 12-day journey has an average base price of $1,200 CDN that includes hotels, transportation and 16 meals.

Accommodation: In Cairo, a mid-range hotel room costs between $70 and $120 CDN. The luxurious Marriott Mena House, which has a poolside view of the Giza Pyramids, is $180 CDN per night.

THE WINTER ISSUE

97

DESIGN

athomeincanada.ca

CREATING THE SPA LOOK Fleurco’s Veritas Premiere and Mod collections of accessories for the bathroom offer beauty and function

THINK OF THEM as the finishing touches, the small but important – and practical – elements that transform a bathroom into a welcoming spa. Once you’ve installed your new vanity, shower, tub, toilet and faucets, it’s time to consider the accessories that add sparkle and are oh-so-necessary for comfort and beauty. Fleurco, a Montreal-based company that specializes in the design, manufacturing and distribution of high-end glass shower doors, bathtubs, lighted mirrors and accessories, has created the Veritas Premiere and Mod collections, designed to enhance the look and function of a bathroom. Here are the items that add wow to your bathroom sanctuary:

RELAX AND PUT YOUR FEET UP Built for a corner of the shower, this footrest is stylish and functional and is equipped with an anti-slip covering. Made of plated brass and insulated plastic.

Premiere. Available now.

SETTING THE BAR This 135-degree grab rail for the shower or bathtub is stylish and practical, and can be easily installed at any height. Made of chrome-plated brass, it is ADA-compliant (Americans with Disabilities Act) and offers added mobility to seniors.

Premiere. Available now.

SOAP SAVVY The Veritas Premiere soap rack can be installed at any height, and is slotted for water drainage. The glass shelf is removable for easy cleaning.

Made of chrome-plated brass and six-millimetre-thick tempered mist glass.

Premiere. Available now.

98

THE WINTER ISSUE

DESIGN • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

ALL-IN-ONE Beauty and practicality come together in this multi-function towel bar with mix-and-match compatible accessories (sold separately): soap dispenser, tumbler and soap dish. Available in two sizes, the bar can be installed vertically for towel storage. Towel bar: brass, zinc; accessories: mist glass, brass. Finishes available: chrome or matte black.

Mod. Available end of November.

HAVE A SEAT Made for inside or outside the shower, this sturdy stool is made of polypropylene and aluminum, and has a rubber grip under its feet to prevent slipping. It can withstand up to 1,500 pounds.

Premiere. Available now.

VERY VERSATILE The Veritas shelf can hold a small towel or liquid-soap dispenser and tumbler. This versatile accessory can be installed at any height.

Made of aluminum, mist glass and brass, it comes in a chrome or matte-black finish.

Mod. Available end of November.

RAISING THE BAR This striking Veritas towel bar is sleek and stylish, designed to enhance the beauty of any bathroom. Made of aluminum – in a chrome or matte black finish – it’s available in two sizes.

Mod. Available end of November.

THE WINTER ISSUE

99

DESIGN

athomeincanada.ca

COOL, CALM,

CONTEMPORARY AND

COHESIVE

A Toronto home is holistically designed with a light and airy aesthetic

BY KAREN SEIDMAN PHOTOGRAPHY: STEPHANI BUCHMAN

100

THE WINTER ISSUE

DESIGN • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

THE WINTER ISSUE

101

DESIGN

(Above) The wall-hung cabinetry creates a light, contemporary aesthetic, according to designer Sara Bederman. The custom-made mirror and shelf combination is flanked by a linear lighting fixture from Cedar and Moss in Oregon.

102

THE WINTER ISSUE

athomeincanada.ca

VISITORS ARE SWEPT UP into an oasis of crisp, calming spaces when they walk into this renovated semi-detached house in the South Hill area of Toronto. Neutral tones prevail, yes, but it is the attention to detail that distinguishes this home, meticulously designed

by Sara Bederman of Sara Bederman Design, for a young family with two children.

Bederman calls the decor “soft modern,” accentuating clean lines but with warmth and coziness to soften the look and feel of the home. “All the materials are natural, which keeps that organic feeling throughout the house,” she says.

The consistent finishes – the same wood and marble throughout – create cohesiveness in the design, which is what Bederman believes produces the serenity the clients desired.

Cohesiveness may be simple to create, but making a homogenous and somewhat monotone space interesting was the challenge for this designer. “It can be boring if all the finishes are the same,” she says. “My job was to find ways to electrify the space just a bit while keeping that cohesive feeling.”

DESIGN • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

She did that with some small details and a few powerful design elements that she believes generate excitement. That excitement begins at the entrance, where the contemporary-style staircase becomes a focal point for the home – the white oak steps are seemingly free-floating in a translucent glass and stainless-steel balustrade. Hexagonal marble tiles, feathered into the wood floor, lead from the main entry to the staircase and the main living area.

“There’s a real wow factor when you walk in,” Bederman says. “The staircase design is very architectural.” And that is further underscored by the archway to the nearby living area, which is accentuated with white oak to match the engineered hardwood floors.

It creates a beautiful framework for the space.

The sense of openness created by the remodeled staircase was critical to the whole project. The clients wanted an open and airy ambience, choosing the largest windows they could have wherever possible. “One of their objectives was to achieve that inside/outside feeling,” Bederman explains. –>

The dramatic staircase is a focal point of the home, with “a huge wow factor,” says the designer. She likes its architectural look, framed by a white oak archway, and the hexagonal marble tiles that are feathered into the wood floor. All of it is embellished by a contemporary light fixture from Nuevo Living in Toronto.

THE WINTER ISSUE

103

DESIGN

athomeincanada.ca

The consistent use of white oak and marble creates fluidity and continuity throughout the home’s design. The custom kitchen cabinetry from Millworx in Mississauga features white oak and white lacquer, which is repeated in the master bathroom.

The house was enlarged with an extension off the back that goes from the basement to the second floor, and the interior was then gutted and reconfigured, all with the goal of optimizing the openness the clients wanted.

The custom cabinetry is wall-hung to keep the feeling light and contemporary.

The only item remaining from the original house is a stained-glass window in the double-height foyer. But that is far from the only artistic flourish in the home; even the coat-hook board in the entrance is a custom piece intended to be functional art. The transition from the kitchen to the living room includes open bookshelves and wine storage that is both functional and a striking design feature, adding interest in a long wall without removing function.

104

THE WINTER ISSUE

DESIGN • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

The dining table is a family heirloom which was refinished to eliminate its reddish hue. A wood-burning fireplace brings warmth and elegant style to the room. The light fixture from hollis+morris in Toronto was customized to marry with the overall design of the home.

The dining room, which is the main eating area, features a family heirloom table in cherry wood, which was red and brown and had to be painstakingly refinished to achieve an appropriate shade of grey. Sitting on a polished stainless-steel base, the table is simply but dramatically punctuated by the unusual light fixture above, and the cool marble fireplace beside it.

The family room features a fireplace surround clad in Oriental white marble tiles. Flanking it, custom-built white lacquer cabinetry boasts oak details and matte black hardware. Because of the large space, Bederman ensured the fireplace would be offset to add a little asymmetry and make the TV area a better proportion. –>

THE WINTER ISSUE

105

DESIGN

106

THE WINTER ISSUE

athomeincanada.ca

DESIGN • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

The sloping ceiling of the master bathroom was a design challenge. The herringbone mosaic tiles in the shower are among the most striking design elements. Matte black hardware: Myoh.

The white lacquer and white oak theme continues into the adjacent kitchen with its sleek cabinets and marble countertops. The white porcelain-tile backsplash is contemporary and the high-end appliances (Miele and a Sub-Zero fridge) are meant to last. The kitchen was designed for convenience and cooking: cabinets by Millworx have touch-latch doors, the faucets feature touch technology, and there’s a walk-in pantry.

“I really tried to highlight certain areas without making it feel fussy,” Bederman says of the project. “It was a huge challenge but I think we succeeded in creating the Scandinavian-inspired style with an injection of warmth that they wanted.”

THE WINTER ISSUE

107

LIFESTYLE

athomeincanada.ca

LICENCE TO CHILL Add yang elements to your decor to balance out the season’s yin energy

BY TRACEY MACKENZIE

DURING OUR COLD, DARK winters, it’s easy to feel a lack of enthusiasm towards life and work. When the light levels drop around the winter solstice, many people in the northern hemisphere suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder, which is known by its all-too-appropriate acronym “SAD.” A vacation in the tropics can provide a short-term fix. But there is a more permanent solution which can be applied to your home that promises to make you feel peppier during the cold season.

According to the ancient art of feng shui, developed more than 5,000 years ago in China, “yin” and “yang” play an important

108

THE WINTER ISSUE

role in our health and well-being. These two opposing forces keep our bodies, minds and homes in harmony with the Universal energy (chi) that permeates the Earth. When they are out of sync (one is stronger than the other) we feel misaligned.

In feng shui philosophy, winter and summer are considered the major seasons while spring and autumn are transitional. Winter corresponds to yin energy (cold, dark, and inactive) and summer corresponds to yang energy (warm, bright, and active). Decorating for these two seasons requires a balancing act between yin and yang forces. We do this by

To offset the all-too-familiar seasonal blahs, our homes can be modified with elements that are bright and warm (yang) to balance out the dark, cold (yin) energy of winter.

LIFESTYLE • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

adapting our decor to the season we’re in.

In fact, the practice of changing a home’s decor for the seasons long predates the popularization of feng shui in Western cultures.

Even now, many people adhere to this practice without quite understanding why.

Since the winter months in the northern hemisphere are cold and dark (yin), they can be offset by augmenting the level of warmth and light (yang) in the environment to restore balance. In your home, you can do this by adding warm lighting (no white lights) and/ or candlelight, by lighting the fireplace if

you have one (we have a primal attraction to fire), putting textured fur or wool blankets on seating, and layering carpets over wood floors in corridors and other rooms. Textures that are soft to the touch, combined with warm lighting, or the glow of a fireplace, make a room cozy, and balance the cold darkness of the outdoors. A centrepiece of succulents on your dining room table or a terrarium filled with the same will add some greenery to your home. Bringing nature indoors when the plants are dormant outside elevates our mood. –>

THE WINTER ISSUE

109

LIFESTYLE

athomeincanada.ca

(Left) Warm lighting, cushy pillows and soft linens make a bedroom cozy and inviting during the winter season, when we often spend more time in bed than during the summer. (Below) Warm foods, such as soup and hot chocolate, are yang in nature and offer the body an antidote to the yin energy of the season’s cold.

Bedrooms should also be made a priority during the winter months. We spend more time sleeping and loafing in bed during the winter. Putting quality linen or cotton sheets on your bed will help you sleep better.

Pillows and throws should also be added for additional warmth and comfort. And candles are a definite plus for a cozy AND romantic environment.

Our bodies also need to be brought into a state of balance during the cold winter months, when the surplus of yin energy can weaken our life force (chi). Drinking warm, spiced beverages such as cardamom hot chocolate or chai tea, as well as eating foods that

110

THE WINTER ISSUE

contain a variety of spices and peppers, such as Indian and Mexican dishes, which are yang, will help ward off the internal cold. You will notice that many Indian dishes are served alongside a bowl of cucumber raita. The raita is the cooling dish required to balance the heat of some of the spicier fare.

When the outdoor picture is dreary and most of nature is asleep, we, too, want to cocoon. But just as the northern Europeans first added candles to their fir trees to bring cheer to the darkened landscape and to celebrate Christmas, we must add light and warmth and happiness to our homes to increase our life force (chi).

LIFESTYLE • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

(Right) The polyphenols in hot chocolate can elevate your mood; use dark chocolate for best results. (Below) Putting down rugs warms the floors underfoot.

Here is a winter checklist to get you started: * Candles * Soft lighting – think dimmers * Light the fireplace if you have one * Knitted wool blankets * Faux-fur blankets * Fluffy pillows * Centrepiece or terrarium of succulent plants * Carpets/runners * Warm and spicy beverages * Spicy foods * Getting together with friends.

THE WINTER ISSUE

111

DESIGN

athomeincanada.ca

LIGHT UP YOUR LIFE

The latest pendants, chandeliers and table lamps make it easy to create warm, light interiors

BY TRACEY MACKENZIE

112

THE WINTER ISSUE

WELCOME TO WINTER. Shorter days leave many of us yearning for the light. While there is less natural light at this time of year, we can certainly illuminate the interiors of our homes by choosing beautiful light fixtures.

Here is a sampling of some of the latest pendants, chandeliers, sconces and table lamps on the market. They offer us an opportunity to boost our indoor light levels stylishly.

DESIGN • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

LIGHTING GUIDE 2019

ALL THAT GLITTERS IS GOLD

MINIMALIST AND MATTE

Modern design combined with a dramatic flair makes the Vida chandelier

With its sleek design of matte-black metal combined with either chrome or

eye-catching. A burnished gold finish and crystal accents make this piece as

aged brass accents, the Lineare chandelier is perfect for a minimalist decor.

luxurious as it is beautiful.

Discreetly integrated LED lights further enhance the design.

Available at Royal Lighting

Available at Royal Lighting

www.royallighting.com

www.royallighting.com

CROWNING GLORY

TROPICAL TENDENCIES

The Apollo chandelier takes its name from Greek mythology. The laur-

The Tropical floor lamp with its oversized palm

el-leaf crown that defines its design is associated with the ancient deity.

fronds crafted in a vintage brass finish will add an

With its gold leaf motif and a painted finish, this wrought-iron chandelier is

island vibe to any room it’s placed in. Perfectly at

also available as a wall sconce.

home in both a traditional or contemporary decor.

Available at Import Temptations

Available at Import Temptations

www.import-temptations.com

www.import-temptations.com

THE WINTER ISSUE

113

DESIGN

athomeincanada.ca

LIGHTING GUIDE 2019

GLASS GLOBES Originally created to house Tim Burton’s movie characters in his Prague exhibition, the TIM pendant lights are made of hand-blown glass crystal and are available in three sizes. Perfect for the kitchen and dining room, the simple beauty of these clear globes makes them a conversation starter.

Available at AM Studio www.amstudio.ca

CUBED The Sunburst Collection chandelier is reminiscent of a supernova starburst that occurs in space. Satin-brass, hollow rods, which form a sunburst pattern, are enclosed inside a matte black cube to form a stunning geometric light.

Available at Concept Lighting www.conceptlighting.ca

ORGANIC ORIGINS With a design that is similar to a molecular structure, the Organic light’s shape may be changed to your desired configuration. Dimpled glassware is suspended on a multi-directional black frame for added impact. It also comes with a straight hang for sloped ceilings.

Available at Concept Lighting www.conceptlighting.ca

114

THE WINTER ISSUE

DESIGN • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

LIGHTING GUIDE 2019

LINEAR LUXURY Suspended, criss-crossed satin brass rods make this Linear chandelier geometrically fascinating. Contemporary and artful, the rectangular white canopy will blend easily into your decor while the 10 LED lights add ambience with their soft illumination. Available in two sizes. Lights included.

Available at Union Lighting and Furnishings www.unionlightingandfurnishings.com

COASTAL CHIC Antiqued black metal hardware combined with distressed wood gives the Lexi chandelier a rustic, coastal feel. Equally suited for the entrance or kitchen, this chandelier is reminiscent of historic fixtures.

Available at Accents for Living www.accentsforliving.ca

OPULENT OVALS Beautiful glass ovals hang like jewels that punctuate this inverted-triangle chandelier, which boasts a black iron finish and eight lights. Perfect for adding a little bling to any room in your home.

Available at Union Lighting and Furnishings www.unionlightingandfurnishings.com

THE WINTER ISSUE

115

DESIGN

athomeincanada.ca

LIGHTING GUIDE 2019

HEAVENLY HALO Antique brass and clear acrylic combine to form the stunning halo of the Haskell chandelier. Thirty clear acrylic pillars surround eight lights for maximum shine. Perfect for the entrance foyer or dining room, this chandelier may also be hung outdoors in a covered area.

Available at Cocoon Furnishings www.cocoonfurnishings.ca

NATURALLY NEUTRAL A snow marble base with white striations sets the tone for this beautiful Sidney table lamp from Arteriors. This double socket lamp has decorative brass pull chains and a putty-coloured fabric shade with cream cotton lining.

Available at Cocoon Furnishings www.cocoonfurnishings.ca

BEAUTIFUL BASKETRY Made of Finnish birch plywood, the Basket Collection, which includes the Leaf, Crystal and Wave designs, reproduces nature’s patterns in its subtle shapes. The lancewood tree, ice formations and flowing water are all represented in the design of these sustainably manufactured lights.

Available at David Trubridge www.davidtrubridge.com

116

THE WINTER ISSUE

DESIGN • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

LIGHTING GUIDE 2019

BALANCING ACT Inspired by hanging kinetic mobiles, the Phase chandelier interprets the circle three ways. Built from the bottom up, a sphere, a disc and a melted semi-circle are placed in various positions along a steel pipe and weighted before being attached to the arm for perfect balance and parallel lines.

Available at Anony www.anony.ca

MIRRORED MOSAIC The hand-crafted Regatta wall sconce

by Corbett has three mirrored octagons bordered by a mosaic of shells with a silver leaf finish. Elegant and understated, it casts a beautiful glow.

Available at Sescolite www.sescolite.com

ELECTRIFYING The BOLT hanging lamp by Hollis+Morris is hand-made of solid walnut. Its design is inspired by nature’s most powerful electrical force: lightning. Bold and elegant, the simple style of this fixture is contemporary and minimalist.

Available online at Simons www.simons.ca

THE WINTER ISSUE

117

DESIGN

DELIGHTFULLY DARING DESIGN The owners of a Calgary design-build company test-drive some original concepts when creating their own home

BY ELISABETH KALBFUSS PHOTOGRAPHY: JAMIE ANHOLT STYLING: MAJIDA DEVANI

118

THE WINTER ISSUE

athomeincanada.ca

DESIGN • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

THE WINTER ISSUE

119

DESIGN

THE BEST IDEAS for designing indoor spaces sometimes come from time spent outdoors. For Majida Devani, the creative lead at Rndsqr home builders in Calgary, that spark came on a family holiday to Japan, visiting the bamboo forests near Kyoto.

As she was planning the build that was to become her own family’s new home, Majida wanted to try something new, to create a bright and inviting opening, like in a bamboo forest, from the second floor to the first. She surrounded that opening with a railing of long, narrow, tightly spaced slats, topped with metal. “We did it in cedar, instead of bamboo,” she says, “and we get the light dancing through the main floor.”

120

THE WINTER ISSUE

athomeincanada.ca

Rndsqr, an award-winning building and development company owned and run by Devani’s husband and his brother, Alkarim and Afshin Devani, specializes in inner city, multi-family projects. “One of the things we always like to do is experiment,” says Majida, “To try new things and make sure they work out in our own homes first, before we do it anywhere else.”

That opening was just one of the new things they tried in the Bridgeland semi-detached home where the Devanis live with their eight-year-old daughter and one-year-old baby.

DESIGN • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

Majida wanted a grey kitchen, and matched the cabinetry to the concrete panels and island that were custom-made by 2Stone, the Calgary concrete company. She likes the practicality of glass upper cabinets. “It makes life easier,” she says. “You can see where everything is.” The table top is custom-made in maple; the armchairs are by Muuto.

athomeincanada.ca

Family and friends visit often, and so Majida put a lot of planning into the kitchen design. She wanted to use concrete to create the island – but only if it could be crafted as a single piece without seams. “When we have an idea, we say, ‘Can you make this work?’ ” The concrete company she works with, 2Stone Designer Concrete, at first tried to persuade her to go with two pieces, but she persuaded them to try. The first model failed – it split in the middle; the second worked perfectly. “We had to crane the whole thing into the house through the patio doors and then build the kitchen around that,” she says. The island has two tiers: the concrete countertop and a second wooden tier at table height, which is the family’s main eating area.

Lighting the area over the island was also a consideration. “We thought it would be nice if we could dangle garden lights, but wondered how could we do this and not make it look messy,” Majida says. In the end, they created a fixture using a large board, cut out circles to add rows of diamond LED lights, and worked with their electrician to set it up. “If we don’t know how to do something, we have someone who will know how to put it together or work out the technical part,” she says. –>

THE WINTER ISSUE

121

DESIGN

athomeincanada.ca

There are two living spaces on the open-concept main floor.

For the front living room, under the opening to the second floor, Majida chose a grey Montauk sofa (shown on page 118), an Eames lounger from Kit Interior Objects, a Noguchi coffee table, and a carpet, like the kitchen runner, from House of Persian Rugs.

The second flex space at the back of the house could be used as a dining room; instead it’s become a family room where the family gathers to play and read together. The fireplace surround is custom-made Corten, the steel that colours as it oxidizes. The sofa and the Hecks ottoman trays by Blu Dot are both from Kit Interior Objects.

122

THE WINTER ISSUE

DESIGN • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

The second floor is given over to the family’s two children. Majida’s eightyear-old daughter helped choose the green wall colour, wallpaper and other fixtures in her bedroom. Accessories and pillows are from Home Sense and EQ3. The front room is where she hangs out with her friends, and is her main play space for music, crafts, and relaxing and reading on the Cirque du Soleil net. String shelving unit: Kit Interior Objects.

But the “new thing” that Majida’s family, especially her older daughter, has the most fun with, is a play net on the second floor that hangs right over the home’s front hall.

That second floor is pretty much given over to her children – her daughters’ bedrooms and bathroom are there, along with a large play area at the front of the house, surrounding that cedar railing. Beside the railing, hangs a hammock-like net, made by Cirque du Soleil, held firmly in place with metal beams. “I think it’s over-engineered,” Majida says, “But it’s super-safe.” When visitors come in the front door, they can often see her daughter’s silhouette above them as she lies there to read.

Another family holiday, this time to Chile’s Atacama Desert, also influenced the home’s design. One of the hotels the family stayed at was designed with a lot of earth tones, Majida says. Since many of the older homes in her new neighbourhood are built with red brick, those tones seemed to fit in with the new house. To mimic those colours, but without using the brick, she chose Corten, the weathering steel that turns reddish as it oxidizes. A second-storey bump-out at the front of the house is clad in the steel, and it’s used again inside the house as a fireplace surround. –>

THE WINTER ISSUE

123

DESIGN

athomeincanada.ca

The master bedroom, walk-in closet and master bath take up the third floor of the 3,000-square-foot home. A large, white-oakframed window overlooks the stairs. The Dodu bed by Blu Dot is from Kit Interior Objects.

124

THE WINTER ISSUE

DESIGN • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

Majida used a wall of wooden slats to create privacy for the toilet area, and chose a light-coloured wood for the vanity as well. The green wall tiles are by Mutina, the brand she uses most often. “They’re very architectural and playful,” she says. She also chose a Mutina tile, this time in white, for the girls’ bathroom and used black matte Brizo faucets in both bathrooms.

To create warmth, she used textures, art and wood. The floors are white oak, laid in a chevron pattern. Wall niches are clad in wood.

And solid wood railings, also in white oak but stained dark, zigzag up, down and across the stairways from the basement up to the master retreat on the third floor.

Majida added a lot of wood in the master bathroom, too. A wall of wooden slats hides the water closet, and green tiles with a geometric pattern line the walls. The colour choice was influenced by the park beside their home, Majida says. She originally planned to use them on the floor, but fearing they weren’t strong enough, decided they’d be perfect on the walls.

“We like textures, earthy colours, warm aesthetics. People say, ‘Oh, you have a modern house.’ When I hear that I think it feels a little cold,” she says. “So maybe we’d call it transitional.”

THE WINTER ISSUE

125

LIFESTYLE

athomeincanada.ca

WHAT’S OLD IS NEW AGAIN THE 1980S ARE HAVING A MOMENT in home decor. Brass or gold faucets are here to stay, as are florals running riot over walls and beds. And the resurrected Memphis design trend with its bold colours and patterns originated in that era.

Back then, the heavens were home to a rare concentration of major planets in Capricorn. And it’s happening again as a new decade dawns. Jupiter will enter the sign in early December 2019, joining long-time residents Saturn and Pluto.

The planetary players have changed since the ’80s, but the sign they share remains the same. Because the planets now involved have to do with universal energies, it affects us all. And since the home is a template for our selves, our being, it has important implications for how we both live and decorate.

126

THE WINTER ISSUE

How the sign of Capricorn will change your life and style heading into 2020

BY SUSAN KELLY

2020: Major Renovation Ahead But wait, there’s more! On January 12, 2020, Pluto and Saturn will exactly conjoin at the same degree of Capricorn in the sky. Every New Year brings a desire to make a fresh start; this conjunction turbocharges the impulse.

And the desire for change will come from a deep level.

The year 2019 marked the lead-up or preparation for this powerful and potent cosmic alignment. While it impacts everyone differently, I find most folks can easily point to one life area screaming for a tidy up if not more drastic action. For many of us, this conjunction will bring an Aha! moment, making it a transformative and perhaps even life-altering new year.

Many people will change residence or give their homes a big refresh. And since

Capricorn is associated with architecture and construction, you might consider a big structural change now. The trend in 2020 is for even more open, versatile spaces, so think moving walls. Beyond aesthetics, it’s also a good time to make sure your home sits on a solid foundation. And with Pluto involved, to perhaps have the plumbing system inspected.

Unfortunately, the conjunction also portends huge shifts on the global level. Both astrological forecasters and economists warn of a possible short-term economic crisis or recession. For this reason, it’s probably not a good idea to over-extend in financing any home or life changes. A wait-and-see approach might be wisest for the first six months at least. Fortunately, Capricorn is good on taking the long view and can help us all exercise patience and persistence to reach our goals.

LIFESTYLE • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

Capricorn and Style Home design trends reflect the zeitgeist, our collective consciousness, which in 2020 will have a strong Capricorn influence. Try mindfully incorporating some style that honours the sign’s higher qualities. In doing so, you can work some astrological feng shui and throw down the welcome mat for the positive and constructive change that lies ahead.

Some Capricorn-inspired design trends that will take us into 2020: Embrace the dark: Capricorn coincides with the darkest time of year.

Traditionally it is associated with black, which colour therapists consider a protective, calming and grounding hue. The 2019 trend for all-noir colour schemes in kitchens or bathrooms is forecast to remain strong.

Other sign-appropriate choices for any room: deep indigo or navy.

Reach for the light: The sign also marks the all-important winter solstice and the promise of lighter days ahead. The trend towards wider windows, even floor-to-ceiling, is slated to continue. Or evoke natural light with a pale neutral overall colour scheme, especially warm whites. As accent shades, consider uplifting tones of pink, blue or green.

Work it: There’s a new work-life fusion happening in the home, which is off the charts for 2020, forecasters say. This trend is very much in keeping with the industrious Goat who lives for career and achievement. What’s newest: fully integrating the home office into living areas, such as workstations on kitchen islands or built-in cabinets with folding desks.

Make it concrete: Capricorn likes to keep it real and build solid accomplishments. The trend for incorporating concrete, be it countertop, floor or tiles, is appropriate. So is adding various types of natural stone, with low-sheen leathered or honed finishes.

Repurpose with purpose: Capricorn is an earth sign and has a natural affinity for saving the planet. Big on tradition, it loves to honour the ancestors by finding a new use for family heirlooms. For the new, the plethora of sustainable decor materials makes many responsible options available.

Get a high Q: Marie Kondo rose to bestseller and YouTube success under Saturn and Pluto in Capricorn. This sign is all about doing less with more to the point of austerity. And it will choose (high) quality over quantity every time, with a passion for a status label.

Where will you see the light in 2020? Here is a brief sign-by-sign guide.

ARIES (MARCH 21 - APRIL 19) Streamline your home life so you can focus on your career. Does it represent your true goals, your calling? Time to find out.

LEO (JULY 23 - AUGUST 22) You’re working harder than ever now. Prioritize work and wellness space over entertaining — in style, of course!

SAGITTARIUS (NOVEMBER 22 - DECEMBER 21) Overhaul your approach to what you value, be it your paycheque or possessions. Make sure it sparks joy.

TAURUS (APRIL 20 - MAY 20) You need a bigger window on life, at least figuratively. Widen your outlook on life and embrace previously verboten views.

VIRGO (AUGUST 23 - SEPTEMBER 22) There has to be more to life! Make room in your home to pursue a project or pastime you’re passionate about.

CAPRICORN (DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 19) Even the smallest home makeover will reflect the dramatic inner transformation underway.

Consider downsizing or streamlining.

GEMINI (MAY 21 - JUNE 20) Your close relationships and finances are under renovation. Embrace a more sophisticated approach to resources and assets.

LIBRA (SEPTEMBER 23 - OCTOBER 22) Aesthetics alone do not a home make. It’s time to prioritize family, and make changes that reflect that.

AQUARIUS (JANUARY 20 - FEBRUARY 18) Examine and eliminate any unconscious patterns or fears that are holding you back.

Renovate mindfully.

CANCER (JUNE 21 - JULY 22) Time to clear away outmoded attitudes about relationships and build afresh. You might move or renovate to accommodate a new partner.

SCORPIO (OCTOBER 23 - NOVEMBER 21) The big reveal: no home is an island. You may move to a better neighbourhood or to shorten the commute.

PISCES (FEBRUARY 19 - MARCH 20) Stop merely dreaming of a better world.

Carve out space in your home to work for a cause that is dear to your heart.

THE WINTER ISSUE

127

DESIGN

BLURRED LINES AND SURPRISES A designer creates a home for her family full of delights and gives it continuity between the indoors and outdoors

BY SUSAN SCHWARTZ PHOTOGRAPHY: LARRY ARNAL STYLING: VANESSA EMAM

DESIGNER VANESSA EMAM and her husband knew what they wanted in their new home and their guidelines for the architect, Arcica Architectural Design Studio, were clear: They wanted the lines between indoor and outdoor “blurred,” as Vanessa puts it.

“Direct access to outside was one of the requests – and lots of big, big windows,” she says.

They also wanted a clean, minimalist look – and a house that would surprise. They got what they wanted.

128

THE WINTER ISSUE

athomeincanada.ca

DESIGN • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

THE WINTER ISSUE

129

DESIGN

athomeincanada.ca

(Above) The credenza in the entry hall adds warmth and character. Open staircase risers allow light to pour in. The exposed brick wall includes vintage bricks in a design nod to the nearby Don Valley Brick Works, a former Toronto brick company that has been transformed into a public space.

From the outside, the two-storey structure, finished in smooth white stucco, looks “simple and square.” When people enter, “that is where the surprise is,” says Vanessa, a designer and principal at V+R Design Studio.

The house is a new build by builder Lawrence Park Development, but an exposed brick wall includes vintage bricks. It’s a nod to the nearby Don Valley Brick Works, a former Toronto brickyard that has been transformed into a public space, Vanessa explains, and it’s one way to introduce character to the space.

Another is through the judicious use of wood, from the wood-framed German tilt-and-turn windows throughout to the

130

THE WINTER ISSUE

reclaimed wood flooring on the upper level.

Plants wherever the eye is trained add texture.

“I love modernity, but I need to bring some history and warmth into the design,” Vanessa says. “I really wanted to show that a modern home can be warm.”

A few steps lead down from the foyer into a great room with 11-and-a-half-foot ceilings.

“The idea was for it to be a loft style,” she says.

“That was our inspiration. We wanted a big room where everything happens: kitchen, dining, opening to the outside. We use this room all the time.”

DESIGN • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

Floors on the main level are poured concrete, covered with a surfacing product to prevent cracking and to add warmth and texture. The homeowners had it coloured a soft grey.

A pair of rounded leather sofas adds curves to the great room space, as do an orb-shaped wood-burning fireplace suspended from the ceiling and a captivating round portrait created from magazine cutouts by artist Tad Biernot on the wall behind the dining table. “I really wanted round,” Vanessa says.

“We have this big box and we needed to bring in some circles.” –>

(Above) A pair of curved leather sofas by Roche Bobois and a large round portrait by artist Tad Biernot soften the room’s angular dimensions. The loft-style great room, with its 11-and-a-half-foot ceilings is “where everything happens. We use this room all the time,” says designer and homeowner Vanessa Emam. Floor-to-ceiling fenestration by Tiltco creates a seamlessness between the indoors and the exterior room, with its seating and dining areas. The poured concrete floors, in soft grey, are covered with a Pandomo floorsurfacing system by Ardex.

THE WINTER ISSUE

131

DESIGN

athomeincanada.ca

The kitchen island is clad in Corian (Glacier White) and the cabinetry is by Scavolini.

A glass table and transparent Lucite chairs in the dining area are anchored by two end chairs upholstered in delightful fabrics referencing the cities of Milan and Shanghai. A little surprise. In her design work, “I try to have end chairs in the dining area different from the rest of the chairs,” she says.

The kitchen space where Vanessa, her husband and their two sons take most of their meals features easy-care cork stools from Portugal. A wall of black, featuring cabinets and cooking area, stands at right angles to a bank of white cabinetry. The designer likes to feature two colours in the kitchens she designs. The white is repeated in the solid-surface island, the black in the durable porcelain around the cooking area.

132

THE WINTER ISSUE

DESIGN • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

Along the wall of black cabinets, a camouflaged door leads to a mud room. “People in the great room see us going through the door and think we’re going into the kitchen cabinet,” Vanessa laughs.

Indeed, surprises abound and delight throughout – from a Japanese garden between the boys’ bedrooms upstairs and a second-floor family room featuring a wood ceiling and small torch fireplace – “Our cozy cocoon room,” Vanessa calls it – to an ingenious leather towel strap in the powder room created by the designer with her shoemaker.

When clients see it, “they want the same,” she says. “I like surprises with interior design – the unveiling, step by step, of different things.” –> (Above, left) A leather towel strap in the powder room was created by designer Vanessa Emam and her shoemaker.

(Above, right) The master bedroom boasts a walk-in closet and dressing area.

(Below) The boys’ rooms face each other across a Japanese garden. Each room features a custom-built triangular melamine desk, the legs of which are the same reclaimed oak as the floor planks from Northern Wide Plank.

THE WINTER ISSUE

133

DESIGN

athomeincanada.ca

For the railings of the floating staircase, with its three-inch-thick slabs of white oak, another designer might have used glass. “I didn’t want a glass railing,” Vanessa says. “Everyone has one. My husband and I are big fans of anything metal, so we decided to create a mesh railing for the staircase: It’s just as seethrough as glass.”

Another surprise lies beneath the skylight at the top of the stairwell, where strips of LED lights in aluminum channels illuminate the space. “We needed to light it up,” Vanessa says, “and I think it’s a cliché to have a chandelier.”

Strips of LED lighting were applied to aluminum channels to light the staircase. Architectural metal staircase: Elite Iron Design, Mississauga.

134

THE WINTER ISSUE

DESIGN • HOME IN CANADA • S 2019

athomeincanada.ca

(Above) The suspended wood-burning fireplace by Fireorb is both practical and attractive. (Left) A gabion wall – a cage filled with rocks, stones or other materials to create an opaque barrier – provides privacy and is an eye-catching design element.

At the back of the expansive great room, wide doors that run almost to the ceiling lead directly to an exterior room complete with sofa, armchairs and dining area. Lines between the indoor and outdoor living spaces are blurred – just as the homeowners requested.

THE WINTER ISSUE

135

DESIGN

BEDROOM BEFORE AND AFTER A sanctuary space in this Quebec country home includes serene sleeping quarters and an ensuite bathroom

BY NADINE THOMSON INTERIOR DESIGNER

This four-season home sits on the bank of a river, a one-hour drive south of Montreal, and it’s a refuge for the owner, who operates a busy office from her primary residence. She bought the property to allow her family and friends to unwind and enjoy each other’s company on weekends and holidays. Although the space is barely over 1,800 square feet, it can sleep 10 people without seeming cramped.

BEFORE

136

THE WINTER ISSUE

athomeincanada.ca

2 1

3 The homeowner and I spent a lot of time laying out bedrooms and optimizing every nook, even finding space to install bunkbeds in the upstairs closet for young nieces and nephews.

One of the goals of the renovation was to give the homeowner a sanctuary to which she could retreat when the downstairs becomes hectic. The upstairs was designed with the look of a boutique hotel in mind. It would feature spaces for lounging from which the homeowner could watch passing boats. There would also be a harmonious colour scheme to evoke a sense of peace and serenity. Here is what we did on the second floor to create this “space within a space”:

BEFORE

1. The outdated TV wall was occupying needed space that was awkwardly accessed through the bathroom. We were able to create sleeping quarters for nieces and nephews by adding a double bed with an upper single bunk bed.

The contractor devised a wall-mounted peg ladder off to the side that children love to climb and is so discreet, it’s barely noticeable.

2. We enlarged the bathroom by removing the angled wall and squaring off the entrance into it. This created much-needed square footage to accommodate the bunk bed nook.

DESIGN • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

4

3. We installed the same light natural hardwood flooring upstairs as we did on the main level to create continuity throughout the house and imbue the space with a warm look.

4. The upstairs is used mainly by the homeowner. We created an inviting bathroom here that includes a bath and shower. The client indulged in heated floors, but economized by choosing standard shower doors and a shower base pan. We created a custom look by tiling the walls in the shower and behind the standalone bathtub. Another cost-saver was the purchase of an Ikea floating cabinet (Godmorgon), which has a countertop and integrated sink. These vanity cabinets give big bang for the buck, look great, and stand the test of time. They also provide a sight line under the sink, creating the illusion of more space and an airy feeling in an otherwise tight room.

5. The original entrance into the master bedroom was through the bathroom around a toilet. The client wanted to create a morning view of the river. So, it was an obvious fix to close off the entrance from the bathroom and add a five-foot-wide opening with sliding barn doors.

The doors slide along the inside bedroom walls because there wasn’t enough wall space outside the room to allow them to open completely. However, this is hardly noticeable since they remain open most of the time.

They also add visual interest in the bedroom.

5

6

6. By keeping the upstairs palette in a “river rock” colour scheme, we achieved a soothing atmosphere and a boutique hotel-like aesthetic. We used several paint shades by Benjamin Moore. The walls in the lounge were painted Calm (21117-70) and the master bedroom was painted in Marilyn’s Dress (2125-60). The trim and moldings are Oxford White (CC-30) and the ceiling is Chantilly Lace (OC-65).

THE WINTER ISSUE

137

LIFESTYLE

AN OPEN AND SHUT CASE Automation makes the operation of blinds and drapes simple and convenient

138

THE WINTER ISSUE

athomeincanada.ca

Everything at home, it seems, is being automated these days. And window coverings are no exception. We asked John Di Luca, co-owner of Maple Drapery in King City and Concord to tell us how automation can be used to operate not only windows, but the shades and drapes that adorn them.

QUESTION: John, what is automation as it pertains to window coverings?

ANSWER: Automation is the ability to have motorized window coverings automatically open or close at a predetermined time or when triggered by a condition. For example, shades will open at sunrise and close at sunset. or the drapery will close when the room temperature reaches a certain temperature.

LIFESTYLE • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

Q: What type of window coverings can be automated?

A: Virtually any window covering can be automated: drapery, shades, blinds and even shutters. Maple Drapery also specializes in automation for sloped windows and skylights.

Currently, the only exception is the motorization of irregularly shaped windows. With the growing use of exterior living spaces, outdoor coverings such as awnings and privacy/insect screens are being automated.

athomeincanada.ca

Q: Do you need a home automation package to have smart window coverings?

A: Today, most window covering manufacturers have an automation hub that allows clients to program and operate motorized shades via smart phones or tablets. These hubs also connect with the popular voice-activated Google Home, Amazon Alexa, and Apple Home Kit. If you have a whole home automation system, you are still able to select the full range of custom window coverings as most of the leading brand motors and hubs will integrate with your system.

Q: What can be done to automate window coverings when there is no power in place?

A: Due to the rapid growth of motorization, most motors are powered by external batteries, by internal lithium batteries that recharge, or by solar panels. The life span of the batteries or rechargeable systems typically lasts between 12 and 18 months. Solar is a great alternative for hard-to-reach locations, eliminating the need to change batteries.

Alternately, battery-powered systems are good for areas that are subject to power outages.

Q: Window shades and drapes come in many different fabrics. Do they all lend themselves to automation or are there limits to the materials that can be automated?

A: Multiple motor sizes are available to accommodate the variety of fabrics available for custom drapery. The correct motor must be selected depending on window size and weight of the drapery treatment. In the case of blinds and shades, large windows can be accommodated and are usually limited by the width of the fabric. Hunter Douglas offers an extensive selection of styles, patterns and colours for blinds, a ll available at our gallery showroom.

Maple Drapery & Carpet 8481 Keele St., Concord ~ 905-660-7290 12967 Keele St., King City ~ 905-833-5464 www.mapledrapery.com

THE WINTER ISSUE

139

DESIGN

athomeincanada.ca

INTERNATIONAL INFLUENCE A recently renovated Toronto penthouse features subtle Japanese design elements

BY CHERYL CORNACCHIA PHOTOGRAPHY: GILLIAN JACKSON STYLING: SHEREE STUART

140

THE WINTER ISSUE

DESIGN • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

THE WINTER ISSUE

141

DESIGN

After living in the United States for nearly 25 years, Geoffrey Ashby and Patricia Hastings wanted the penthouse they’d bought in downtown Toronto to be their retirement home, where they would reconnect with extended family. They also wanted to be able to enjoy the objets d’art and other artifacts they had collected while travelling the world for work.

Asia had become their favourite go-to place on the other side of the globe during their careers.

142

THE WINTER ISSUE

athomeincanada.ca

The couple renovated the outdated two-bedroom penthouse, transforming it into a show-stopping, newly designed home that stretches over the top two levels of a 14-storey boutique condominium building located in the city’s financial district. From the windows, there are spectacular views of Toronto’s cityscapes, including the CN Tower and Lake Ontario. The space is imbued with a subtle hint of Japanese style, so subtle that visitors find themselves admiring individual elements of the design as they move from one room to the next but are unable to put a label on the condo’s look and feel.

A subtle hint of Japanese aesthetic takes this Toronto penthouse’s design to new heights. Key are the Japaneseinspired cabinet knobs, a custom-made bench and Asian artifacts. Warmth is added by the Valor Gas fireplace, set within a floor-to-ceiling steel hearth with a blue, grey and brown patina.

DESIGN • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

“Sheree really hit the hammer on the head of the nail,” says Geoffrey of the condo’s discreet Japanese aesthetic, created by Toronto design firm Sheree Stuart Design, headed by owner and principal designer Sheree Stuart.

“People can’t quite put their finger on it (the provenance of the design), which is what we wanted,” says Geoffrey. “She has created a vibe that is calming and comfortable and at the same time, sophisticated. It’s functional elegance. We can dress the place up if we are having guests, or flop down and put up our feet.”

The renovation, completed in May of 2019, saw the condo stripped down to the concrete floors, walls and ceilings. Fortunately, there was already an open-concept layout on the upper level where the main living space is located; the concrete load-bearing walls prevented any major changes to the room configuration, says Stuart. –>

athomeincanada.ca

(Above) Handblown-glass light bulbs, shaped like water droplets in various colours – clear, teal, brown, grey and copper – draw the eye upwards and illuminate the dining area. The custom-made light fixture plays off the industrial look of the concrete ceiling.

THE WINTER ISSUE

143

DESIGN

What made it easier for the designer to personalize the 1,700-square-foot penthouse, which won an International Property Award for Americas in the apartment category and a 2019 International Design & Architecture Award, was the working relationship she had with the owners (“Geoffrey is very keen on design”), a generous budget for customized lighting, millwork and made-to-measure furniture, and the project’s extended timeline.

The renovation was completed in three phases over three winters while the owners were away at their second home in Florida.

144

THE WINTER ISSUE

athomeincanada.ca

Stuart says the stop-and-go renovation schedule provided time for reflection and for the design to evolve. For example, the couple loved the burnt-orange-and-teal Jean Paul Gaultier upholstery fabric used on accent pieces in the open-concept living and dining space. When it came time to redo the master bedroom on the lower level, she says, they asked that the same Jean Paul Gaultier “Mousson” leaf pattern – albeit in a citron and teal – be used on the fabric-covered headboard and wall behind the bed. “The result is something unique to the client.”

“If you don’t have the lighting right, you are just killing your design.”

DESIGN • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

(Left) One stool: two functions. Burnt orange upholstery on this walnut stool adds a splash of colour to the main living area (far left). It can also be used as an extra seat at the head of the marble-topped dining table.

Being able to customize the furniture was another big advantage, the designer says. “We had a size and scale issue,” she explains. The penthouse was relatively small as penthouses go. Today’s oversized furniture pieces would not have fit well. By customizing the furniture, Stuart says, “we got exactly what we wanted – the right size, scale, and made for the client. It all fits perfectly.” A case in point, she says, is the one-of-a-kind Japanese-inspired bench that sits in front of the windows overlooking the terrace and cityscape beyond. –>

THE WINTER ISSUE

145

DESIGN

All of this careful attention to detail produced a wonderful marriage of form and function.

However, the lighting that Stuart incorporated into the condo has tied it all together, making it more impressive than the sum of its parts. “If you don’t have the lighting right, you are just killing your design,” she says.

In the ensuite master bathroom, for example, under-cabinet lighting shows off the floating vanity. In the dining room, an eclectic bouquet of blown-glass pendant light bulbs, shaped like water droplets, are suspended from the ceiling. Their colours – teal, grey and copper – echo the penthouse’s palette. The kitchen is outfitted with task lighting over the peninsula and LED lighting above and below the cabinets to show off their lines.

146

THE WINTER ISSUE

athomeincanada.ca

DESIGN • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

Custom walnut millwork and creative lighting define this one-of-a-kind media room. The backlighting shimmers off pewter-coloured Phillip Jeffries wallpaper and illuminates the shelves, which display the homeowners’ collection of Asian objets d’art.

But it is in the media room where the lighting makes its brightest signature statement.

Adjacent to the condo unit’s doorway, the media room was once dark and unimpressive; it has no windows. Stuart created a unique way to bring in light. She placed the room’s entertainment unit/display cabinets two inches from the wall where they are located, and covered that wall with pewter-leaf wallpaper.

She then installed LED lighting on the back side of all the shelves in the wall unit. The result is a glowing light that reflects off the shimmering wall and ceiling. The designer employed the same technique to highlight dropped wood beams extending out from the entertainment unit across the ceiling.

“We couldn’t be more thrilled with how it has all turned out,” says Geoffrey. “We are now 95 per cent done (with the redesign). The onus is now on us to collect more artwork.”

THE WINTER ISSUE

147

LIFESTYLE

athomeincanada.ca

(Left to right) Joe Di Donato, his parents, Dora and Mike Di Donato (founders of Faema Canada), Emanuel

SERVICE-CENTRED Coffee company JURA opens a much-heralded Hospitality Centre in Mississauga for those who use its professional and residential coffee machines

148

THE WINTER ISSUE

J U R A H A S A N E W H O S P I TA L I T Y CENTRE in Mississauga that promises to be THE go-to place for coffee lovers. The company opened this newest venue in September to much fanfare during an official ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Designed to offer customers the latest in JURA’s service technologies, the centre is a modern, light-filled showroom that showcases the company’s residential and professional coffee machines. It also features a raft of programs and technologies that distinguishes JURA as an industry leader in the premium coffee segment.

Probst, CEO of Jura Switzerland, Salome Meyer, Switzerland’s ambassador to Canada, and brothers Rocco, Pat and Lorenzo Di Donato cut the ribbon at the new JURA Hospitality Centre in Mississauga.

Among the services available: JURA 24/7: • JURA 24/7 Service is available to customers outside of regular operating hours. If a JURA machine requires maintenance or repair after regular business hours, customers can securely drop off their machine in one of the four 24/7 deposit boxes in front of the entrance.

JURA Live: • JURA Live is a new service that gives retailers and potential customers expert advice by live video from a professional consultant. The JURA consultant provides personal demonstration of any of the company’s machines anywhere across Canada. They can also refer potential customers to an authorized JURA retailer nearby for a taste experience.

LIFESTYLE • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

JURA Concierge: • Drive-through service? Well not quite, but almost. Customers can pull up beside the JURA Concierge tower outside the Hospitality Centre entrance, press the button for service, and a JURA representative will come out to greet them with a cart for their machine.

This ensures easy and safe transport to one of the many service desks where initial machine diagnostics take place.

JURA Concierge

JURA Service Live

JURA Service Live: • Like its JURA Live counterpart, this service allows for a direct connection to a JURA consultant, with a focus on troubleshooting and addressing potential usage issues. JURA Service Live will also be used for training programs with retailers and professional customers.

JURA 115 Matheson Blvd. E., Mississauga 905-501-7600 ca.jura.com

JURA’s new Hospitality Centre in Mississauga features programs and technologies designed for professional owners of JURA coffee machines as well as residential users.

THE WINTER ISSUE

149

DESIGN

150

THE WINTER ISSUE

athomeincanada.ca

DESIGN • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

BREATHING SPACE IN AN URBAN ENVIRONMENT This historic home in downtown Montreal has an unusually spacious backyard

BY ELISABETH KALBFUSS PHOTOGRAPHY: DREW HADLEY STYLING: DENISE PALISAITIS

FEW CITY HOMES CAN BOAS T a backyard as large and impressive as the one at Yannick Côté’s home in the Village in downtown Montreal. Fewer still can claim that horse stables used to stand on roughly the same space as the outdoor dining table or firepit.

Yannick isn’t completely sure about the stables or other details of the 140-year-old home’s history; none of the old records has survived. But he has heard its lore from older neighbours who’ve lived in the area most of their lives. Originally built as a three-storey home, it was later converted to a triplex and then, several decades ago, transformed back into a single-family home.

THE WINTER ISSUE

151

DESIGN

(Above) The outdoor space measures 50 by 85 feet, leaving lots of room for flowers as well as various living spaces, including a seating area with a firepit and a table for al fresco dining. All outdoor furniture: Jardin de Ville.

152

THE WINTER ISSUE

athomeincanada.ca

Yannick and his partner Mike love the convenience of living in such a central location.

They’re close to the Metro, walking distance to Old Montreal, downtown and the Plateau Mont Royal. But that amazing outdoor space was one of the things Yannick and Mike liked best when they moved in. In addition to the garden and outdoor space, there are two decks: one off the second-floor den, another off the master bedroom on the third floor.

When they bought the house, all the major structural renovations and restorations had been carried out, including the exposing of original ceiling beams. All they had to do was decorate it.

While they were both in sync when it came to the outdoors, tackling the inside of the house was a little more challenging. They have very different styles. “Everything that’s shiny, like the chrome light fixture in the den, the glass table, that’s him,” Yannick says. “The raw fibres and matte finishes, that’s more me.”

DESIGN • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

Designer/homeowner Yannick Côté chose pieces and colours that he felt would integrate his extensive art collection into the decor. Combining his own tastes with those of his partner led to a transitional style, featuring a combination of mostly contemporary and mid-century pieces. Grey leather chair: Maison Corbeil.

At the beginning, it was a challenge to find common ground, he recalls, until they spotted some grey leather chairs at Maison Corbeil, and things started to fall into place.

“That’s how it all started,” Yannick says. “We just fell in love with them.” It was the details on those chairs that won them both over: the channels on the seat, the honeycomb-patterned back, the metal frame. “And it’s comfortable,” he adds. “It’s not just a pretty chair.

I love comfort and want furniture to be practical. Mike is not so much about practicality, but about the look.”

A designer with his own firm, Yannick also drew inspiration from his art collection, pieces he’s owned for years, purchased back when he worked in art galleries, and others he collected on his travels. Many of those colours found their way into sofas and accent pillows, as he worked to integrate them into the decor.

–>

THE WINTER ISSUE

153

DESIGN

athomeincanada.ca

The heavy renovation work in the kitchen and bathrooms was done by previous owners. Yannick chose pieces, such as the green dining room chairs from Mobilia, that would complement the reddish wood tones used in the kitchen cabinetry. The bathroom vanities are the same colour.

“To entertain in that yard in the summer is quite special,” He also wanted to play to the home’s historic features, such as the dark ceiling beams, and to incorporate elements from the kitchen and bathroom renovations. “The kitchen has a reddish tone, we used that,” he says.

“We wanted to really integrate the existing architectural elements, the features that were already there.” The end result is something he considers a transitional style, with an emphasis on mid-century pieces.

154

THE WINTER ISSUE

DESIGN • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

“For day-to-day living, it’s very cozy,” Yannick says of his home. “It’s on three levels, but it feels very connected.” On the main floor there is a formal living room, along with the kitchen and dining areas. The living room is right next to the sidewalk; so to have more privacy, they converted one of the two bedrooms on the second floor into a den where they relax and watch TV. A large outdoor terrace off the den also has sofas, chairs and space to unwind. The master bedroom and bath are on the top floor, with an open-area tub right at the top of the stairs. That was designed by the previous owners, Yannick says. At first, they considered changing it, but gradually got used to it. “It’s kind of an awkward feature,” he concedes. “It’s not for everybody.” –>

Yannick’s partner Mike brought the chandelier with him when he moved from Vancouver.

Grey sectional: MA.

The master bedroom and ensuite bathroom are on the top floor, with an open bathtub area right at the top of the stairs. That took a little getting used to, the homeowner says. Double doors lead out to another outdoor deck.

THE WINTER ISSUE

155

DESIGN

156

THE WINTER ISSUE

athomeincanada.ca

DESIGN • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

That large yard they fell in love with is the main reason they’ve just sold the house; there was just too much upkeep involved, he says. But the times spent in that space is what he’ll remember most about this house.

“We had some very nice barbecues with close friends and family; there’s a lot of space for everybody. To entertain in that yard in the summer is quite special,” Yannick says. “If we could find the same house but on a different lot with no maintenance, that would be amazing.”

THE WINTER ISSUE

157

DESIGN

athomeincanada.ca

M AT E R I A L CONCERNS Finding the right kitchen counter can be challenging, given all the options on the market

DECISIONS, DECISIONS. You’ve decided to renovate your kitchen. That’s the easy decision. Now comes the challenge as you face down a mind-boggling array of materials.

Countertops can be especially difficult to choose given the range of choices on offer.

Thomas Tampold knows how confusing the search for the right kitchen counter can be. This architect regularly encounters homeowners in his showroom at Yorkville Design Centre in Toronto who want to get the choice right. “There’s always a search for the material that is the most aesthetically pleasing while offering a worry-free surface,” he says.

Worry-free, as in: don’t worry about chips and nicks from daily use or persistent food stains.

158

THE WINTER ISSUE

To that end, says Tampold, “porcelains are the latest generation of worry-free material.

The measure of how good they are is that they’re used as exterior cladding.

Porcelain is extremely resistant to staining and discolouration. Toilets are made of porcelain as is oven-proof cookware. And the slabs are thinner than natural stone, so they’re easier to transport and install.”

Marble may have a bad rep for being porous (hence, prone to stains and pockmarks), but it should not be eschewed by anyone who loves it. “That piece of marble has been cut out of a mountain for you and you have a relationship with the material,” Tampold says. «We had a professional chef come into our showroom who said that she sands down

imperfections in her marble countertop.”

Tampold confesses he has an attachment to marble. “I have a marble table top, left over from a collection of marble in the lobby of a building. It’s been in my family since my father, who was also an architect, got it during the 1960s. It has a stain on it made by a lemon wedge a long time ago, which has happy associations for me.”

Glass may not yet have been widely embraced as a countertop material, he adds, but it is beautiful, and some companies, such as Montreal’s ThinkGlass, are turning glass countertops into works of art.

DESIGN • HOME IN CANADA • WINTER 2019

athomeincanada.ca

Quar tz – engineered stone made of crushed quartz combined with resins, pigments and polymers – continues to be a favourite material for kitchen counters. “I am using a white quartz by Caesarstone in my condo,” Tampold says. “The neutral white has staying power.”

Stainless steel has a commercial-industrial look that is much-loved by foodies and serious home cooks. “It’s surprisingly inexpensive, too,” he says. “And it contrasts well with other materials. Of course, you don’t cut on it. You need a cutting board.”

Formica, widely used a generation ago, is back and on-trend. “I like it with an exposed laminated edge, using Baltic plywood,” he says. “It creates a Scandinavian look.”

And the advantage of Corian, another manufactured surface, “is that it’s seamless and can be lit from behind. Moreover, it’s glued onsite and can be sanded down. I like the shapes you can make with it,” he says.

And there are always natural stones – granite and quartzite – for an organic look.

The best way to choose a kitchen counter material, Tampold says, is to visit a showroom “and touch and feel countertops. Go to suppliers of slabs and see what you feel an attachment to. If you’ve found something you already have an emotional attachment to, bring it to us.” Whether the goal is to have a surface that can withstand a lot of use or something that is warm and aesthetic, consumers have plenty from which to choose.

Yorkville Design Centre 87 Avenue Rd., Box 358 Yorkville Village, Toronto 416-922-6620 www.yorkvilledesigncentre.ca

THE WINTER ISSUE

159

BUYERS’ GUIDE

SAVING THE WORLD ONE GARDEN AT A TIME Safdie Architects www.safdiearchitects.com 617-629-2100 AN OPEN AND SHUT CASE Maple Drapery & Carpet Concord ~ 905-660-7290 King City ~ 905-833-5464 www.mapledrapery.com MATERIAL CONCERNS Yorkville Design Centre www.yorkvilledesigncentre.ca 416-922-6620 JUST RIGHT Mark Lash Fine Jewelry www.marklash.com 416-256-5229 905-881-5229 SERVICE-CENTRED JURA ca.jura.com 905-501-7600 ENHANCING THE VIEW Import Temptations www.import-temptations.com 416-256-3150 DELIGHTFULLY DARING DESIGN RNDSQR www.rndsqr.ca 403-444-9000 Kit Interior Objects www.kitinteriorobjects.com 403-508-2533

2Stone Designer Concrete www.2stone.ca 403-236-3657

WHAT’S OLD IS NEW AGAIN Susan Kelly Astrology www.susankellyastrology.com BEDROOM BEFORE AND AFTER Nadine Thomson Interior Design www.nadinethomson.com 514-775-2259 COFFEE KLATCH Linen Chest www.linenchest.com COOL, CALM, CONTEMPORARY AND COHESIVE Sara Bederman Design www.sarabederman.com 416-792-7594

160

THE WINTER ISSUE

Millworx

www.millworx.ca 905-670-9001

Nuevo Living

www.nuevoliving.com 416-781-6362

hollis + morris

www.hollisandmorris.com 647-970-9616

Kakoz Kitchens

www.kakozkitchens.com 416-315-9229 ~ 905-670-9229

Dimplex

www.dimplex.com

BLURRED LINES AND SURPRISES V + R Design Studio www.vplusrdesign.com 416-930-3407 ~ 647-883-0872

Arcica Architectural Design Studio www.arcica.com 416-821-3960 ~ 647-705-3234

MOUNTAIN MEETS MODERN

FRANK Architecture & Interiors www.frankarchitecture.ca 587-316-5200

CREATING THE SPA LOOK Fleurco www.fleurco.com INTERNATIONAL INFLUENCE Sheree Stuart Design www.shereestuart.com 647-558-4458 Valor www.valorfireplaces.com

Phillip Jeffries

www.phillipjeffries.com

BREATHING SPACE IN AN URBAN ENVIRONMENT Maison Corbeil www.maisoncorbeil.com

Jardin de Ville

www.jardindeville.com 450-435-6046 SLEEK INTEGRATION OF OLD AND NEW La Shed www.lashedarchitecture.com 514-277-6897

AD LIST

7

Barroso Homes

26

Binns

19

Cheney/Dundas/Muskoka

13

Cocoon Furnishings

73

Doors & More

9

Faema

17

Fleurco

162

General Products

72

Gendron Confiseur Chocolatier

27

Hicks Design

15 4 23 164

Hide House Import Temptations JMD Rugs and Carpets Kolbe Gallery

40

Komandor Closets

51

Linen Chest

11

Maple Drapery

64

Mark Lash

25

Pella Windows and Doors

65

Runtal North America

21

Shades of Home

2 50

Simply Closets Yorkville Design

NEXT ISSUE

What’s cooking? In our next issue – Kitchen & Bath Trends – we’ll tell you about current developments in the design of bathrooms, powder rooms and kitchens: from flooring and fixtures to counters and cabinetry. As always, we’ll take you into some superbly designed spaces that will inspire you. Be sure to get your issue of Kitchen & Bath Trends 2020: on sale in February.

THE WINTER ISSUE

161

WELCOME TO YOUR NEW BACKYARDâ„¢

CELEBRATING

40 Years

160 East Beaver Creek Rd., #26, Richmond Hill, On. L4B 3L4

www.gppatio.com 905-709-1162

1.877.319.0744

www.kolbegalleryontario.ca