AT HOME WITH
CHERYL HICKEY THE ET CANADA HOST RELAXES IN HER BACKYARD
FOOD GARDENS How to grow your own veggies
HEAVEN SCENT The power of
OUTDOOR KITCHENS The joy of cooking
LIVING OUTSIDE The trend toward
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BIG-SKY COUNTRY The art of
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EDITOR’S LETTER
INSIDE OUT. This is how I have come to regard backyards. What was once the exclusive purview of a home’s indoor space – kitchen, living room, TV room, bar, and nap corner – are now part of the outdoor landscape, too. Our indoor life has moved outside. I believe that the accelerated speed of modern life has created in us a need for sanctuary, and many of us are creating peaceful refuge in our backyards. In this issue, we show you the extent to which homeowners are going in search of that peace just beyond the back door, or, more specifically, the large glass folding doors that permit a seamlessness between the indoors and out. From outdoor kitchens to elegant sitting rooms outside, we’re making the most of our backyards, be they an acre of wooded land with a babbling brook or a modest fenced space in an urban area. Some of us who do have a little space to garden are also doing something that has not been a widespread activity since the 1940s: we’re growing our own food. Alarmed by the prevalence of pesticide-laden produce and genetically modified food, Canadians are opting to grow organic vegetables and fruits at home. Julie Gedeon spoke to some of the garden designers and landscape architects who are creating food gardens for their clients. Far from being utilitarian rows of plantings, these gardens are highly aesthetic, incorporating ornamental plants in beautiful built structures. And because gardens are such a sensuous experience, we’ve scoped out some of the best aromatic plants for you to incorporate into your own landscape. Try walking down an allée of lavender without being intoxicated by its scent. Every year, when our editorial team researches the latest trends in outdoor spaces, I wonder how much more living we can pack into our already-fabulous backyards. And then someone surprises me. Consider, for example, the two Montreal entrepreneurs who have devised a means of protecting art from the elements so it can be displayed outside. When I learned about their work, I had the same reaction as writer Susan Semenak, who profiled their company. Of course, I thought. We fill our homes with art; why not the yard, too? This issue is packed with beauty. I hope it will make you want to go and kick back in the backyard.
STEPHANIE WHITTAKER Editor-in-Chief stephanie@movatohome.com
There are several ways you can stay in touch with us: @leahlipkowitz, @movatohome @leahlipkowitz, @movatohome
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THE OUTDOORS ISSUE
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CONTRIBUTORS
PHILLIPA RISPIN Writer/editor Phillipa Rispin says she thoroughly enjoyed writing our cover story about the home of ET Canada host Cheryl Hickey. “Some renos require only a few tweaks, some a lot of change,” Phillipa says. “Cheryl astutely realized that several upgrades in her kitchen were all she needed, and she put her dreams and energy into having a backyard that’s a haven for adults and children alike. She struck the right balance.”
JULIE GEDEON A writer for all seasons, Julie Gedeon still loves summer best, especially after learning how to make outdoor living all the more exquisite. The edible garden designs that she explores for this issue provide not only the freshest of salad greens, but also show us how to grow fruit and vegetables among other plants to showcase nature’s splendor. Deck, patio and rooftop entertaining have been taken to a whole new level with the newest outdoor kitchen options that she also profiles – going from grill to glare-free television sets.
SUSAN KELLY The ins and outs of what makes superb design have long fascinated writer Susan Kelly. For this issue, she profiles a stylish backyard update in The Beaches and gets the lowdown on how to design the ideal outdoor space from designer Evelyn Eshun. She then heads indoors to tour the recently renovated interiors of two Toronto homes. In one, an interior designer rescues a renovation gone very wrong, and the other proved that a couple can design together and stay together. “Although every project was very different, I think the takeaway would be to your own design sense be true,” she says. Susan is a frequent contributor who specializes in style and decor matters.
HEATHER PENGELLEY Heather Pengelley is a long-time freelance writer, avid gardener and birdwatcher who writes for national magazines. She is a playwright and, in her spare time, plays Native American flute. For this issue, Heather profiled an urban Toronto garden that, although modest in size, has all the elements necessary to be the perfect retreat for its owners. “I love to write stories that explore how practicality and creativity inspire us to reshape our landscapes,” she says.
Volume 7, Number 3, Outdoors Issue 2017 Date of Issue: August, 2017
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PUBLISHER Leah Lipkowitz ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Sharon Azrieli
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Stephanie Whittaker ART DIRECTOR Randy Laybourne EDITORIAL MANAGER Tracey MacKenzie ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANTS Diane Dollisen
OPERATIONS MANAGER Lynn Tremblay PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Wendy Loper DIGITAL MARKETING Karine Bellisha ACCOUNTING Jenny Marques
Carmen Lefebvre DIRECTOR OF SALES CONTRIBUTORS
Kelly Chicoine
Julie Gedeon Susan Kelly Trudy Kerman
SALES EXECUTIVE Joanne Mayoff
Tracey MacKenzie Heather Pengelley Phillipa Rispin
COLLECTIONS Trudy Kerman
Susan Semenak PHOTOGRAPHY Larry Arnal Meredyth Hilton Gillian Jackson
LEGAL DEPOSIT issn
1927-324x Toronto Home
Magazine Inc. 2017. All rights reserved. Any copying or reproduction of content without the written permission of Toronto Home
STYLISTS Evelyn Eshun Jill Schwartzentruber Vanessa Suppa Svetlana Tryaskina
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THE OUTDOORS ISSUE
Magazine is strictly prohibited.
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CONTENTS
46 ON THE COVER CHERYL HICKEY AT HOME
The ET Canada host relaxes in her backyard
TO THE RESCUE
After hiring the wrong contractor, a couple find the perfect designer for their reno
138
HOME-GROWN
In a search for pesticideand GMO-free food, Canadians are growing their own
74
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THE OUTDOORS ISSUE
THE FAMILY THAT DESIGNS TOGETHER … A couple take on the design of their own Oakville home and get the results they want
90
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CONTENTS
118 BIG-SKY COUNTRY
Victoria artist Irma Soltonovich captures the spirit of vast landscapes
18 EDITOR’S LETTER 26 THIS JUST IN A selection of new items for your home
58 NIGHT LIGHT The right outdoor lighting can enhance a home’s exteriors
HANGIN’ OUT
70 GET YOUR ZZZZZs A new-to-the-market foam mattress promises a cushy, cozy sleep
The backyard and front veranda of this Beaches home are designed for social activity
86 A ROYAL RENOVATION The venerable King Edward Hotel gets a $40-million makeover
62
108 LIFE ON THE OUTSIDE Outdoor rooms move indoor lifestyles out into the backyard
128 THE GRAND DESIGN OF THE GRAND PIANO Pianos can be a spectacular design element in a living room
130 URBAN RESPITE A Toronto garden offers its owners an opportunity to escape the city’s bustle
136 TWO FOOTBALL FIELDS This lighting and furnishings store is vast at 100,000 square feet
148 THE ART OF OUTDOOR LIVING A Montreal company sells art that can be displayed outside
152 ON DECK New materials for deck construction eliminate the need for yearly maintenance
154 ALFRESCO CUISINE Outdoor kitchens have become a must-have for many homeowners
162 SCENTS AND SENSIBILITY Aromatic plants enhance the sensuous appeal of a garden
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THE OUTDOORS ISSUE
SYBARITIC LIVING IN THE GREAT OUTDOORS
A spectacular Mont Tremblant home offers luxury surrounded by Mother Nature
102
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DESIGN
1. MY CORONA ——— The Cosmopolitan headboard by
white lacquer and black satin.
Christopher Guy is like a blast of
Manufactured in two pieces for
sunshine. Made of hand-carved
ease of installation.
mahogany, it’s available in queen,
———
king or California-king sizes.
Import Temptations Inc.
We show it in gold, but it’s also
188 Bentworth Ave., Toronto
available in silver, ivory lacquer,
416-256-3150 www.import-temptations.com
2
1 3
3. THE RIGHT STRIPE ——— Add zip to a room with the vibrant horizontal stripe of this broadloom. Made of 100 per cent embossed wool, it’s called Plettenburg and is available in navy, grey or beige. It can also be used as an area rug.
——— Dominion Rug & Home 52 Samor Road, Toronto 416-485-9488 www.dominionrug.com
2. FLORAL FANTASY ——— This lush floral arrangement will impress you and your guests. These real flowers are spectacularly preserved to maintain their beauty and natural characteristics. Available in various types of flower combinations, colours, and sizes.
——— Creative Avenues 375 Fairlawn Ave., Toronto 416-783-0220 www.creative-avenues.ca
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THE OUTDOORS ISSUE
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DESIGN
1. WONDERFUL WEAVE ———
2. FRINGE FESTIVAL ———
This flat-weave rug, called Ingalls
Dominion Rug & Home
These 18kt yellow-gold fringe earrings, studded with 1.33ct
Lake, is 80 per cent wool and 20
52 Samor Road, Toronto
diamonds, are sure to turn heads. Available at Mark Lash.
per cent art silk, and is available
416-485-9488
———
in 10 cheerful colours. It’s a casual
www.dominionrug.com
Mark Lash
but elegant addition to any room.
480 Eglinton Ave. W., Toronto ~ 416-256-5229
Up to 15 feet wide by any length.
9033 Leslie St., Richmond Hill ~ 905-881-5229 www.marklash.com 2
1 3
3. AN EVENING AT THE BISTRO ——— Although perfect for everyday use, this lovely collection of tableware recalls chic Parisian bistros. This 16-piece set (four place settings) is available in black and white or blue and white. Made of porcelain, it is dishwasher- and microwave-safe. Available at Linen Chest.
——— Linen Chest www.linenchest.com
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THE OUTDOORS ISSUE
Š2016 California Closet Company, Inc. All rights reserved. Each franchise independently owned and operated.
Experience the before and after
See her space before #CCBeforeAfter californiaclosets.com 4 1 6 . 3 4 2 . 1 7 1 7
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DESIGN
1. ILLUMINATING STYLE ——— This outdoor lighting collection takes its cue from Prairie style, which is known for simple, linear design. With an antique-bronze finish, it also has an open bottom to allow for easy cleaning. The collection includes sizes ranging large (18 inches) while styles also
2. TABLE TREND ———
include a post lantern and a pendant
Enjoy a backyard drink around the Hemingway coffee table, which
light. Cast-aluminum construction
boasts an aluminum frame, a super-stone bottom, and is made of
ensures durability.
all-weather resin. It measures 46˝D X 46˝W X 19˝ H. $2,295.
———
———
Litemode
Casualife
8355 Jane St., Unit 2, Vaughan
6 Shields Crt., Unit 1, Markham ~ 905-475-8353
905-738-8889
507 Lakeshore Rd. E., Mississauga ~ 905-990-5433
from small (10 inches high) to extra-
www.litemode.ca
www.casualife.ca 1 3
2 4
3. GROUP OF THREE ——— From the Erbil Tezcan Collection, this design, called Trio, was inspired by tribal works from Africa. A multitude of colours, 36 to be exact, are woven in wool and silk to create the three standing figures.
——— Weavers Art 162 Bedford Rd., Toronto ~ 416-923-7929
4. GRAPHIC GRAPHITE ———
255 Bass Pro Mills Dr., Vaughan ~ 905-660-7929
The Bespoke Collection features
www.weaversart.com
engineered oak flooring in a graphite
1400 Castlefield Ave., Toronto ~ 416–929-7929
colour. Made of European white oak, it’s the perfect shade for a neutral decor. Also available in several other colours. Planks are 6.5 feet long by eight inches wide.
——— European Flooring 1310 Castlefield Ave., Toronto www.europeanflooring.ca 416-967-9200
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THE OUTDOORS ISSUE
The Art of Custom Hardwood Flooring
Verona Floors combines old world European craftsmanship and modern manufacturing techniques to create a true artisanal hardwood floor custom tailored for you.
veronafloors.com
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DESIGN
1. ROSY OUTLOOK ———
2. HAND-FORGED ———
This 14kt rose-gold pinky ring is an eye catcher, set with 0.52ct
This hand-forged, curved-iron chandelier is a highly designed
diamonds. Available at Mark Lash.
fixture that’s available in a dark smoke finish among others. It has
———
six 60-watt bulbs and adjustable heights. Size: 35.1˝W X 46˝H to
Mark Lash
56.9˝ (smaller sizes available).
480 Eglinton Ave. W., Toronto ~ 416-256-5229
———
9033 Leslie St., Richmond Hill ~ 905-881-5229
Union Lighting and Furnishings
www.marklash.com
1491 Castlefield Ave., Toronto 416-652-2200 www.unionlightingandfurnishings.com 2
1 3
3. CURL UP AND RELAX ——— The Reverie sofa is a take on Midcentury Modern design. With its button-tufted seat and back and tapered wooden legs, it’s available to order in both fabric and leather upholstery and in a variety of colours. In the EQ3 Gallery at Decorium’s Supertest location.
——— Decorium 363 Supertest Rd., Toronto ~ 416-736-6120 1212 Yonge St., Toronto ~ 416-515-1212 www.decorium.com
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THE OUTDOORS ISSUE
Canada’s Ultimate Destination Today’s Finest Contemporary & Most Up-to-Date Collections
BEDDING • BATH • DECOR • KITCHEN • GIFTS • ELECTRICS • TABLETOP • GLASS & BARWARE • MATTRESS
26 stores Proudly Canadian
linenchest.com LCliving.ca
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
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DESIGN
1. THE GOOD LIFE ———
2. GOLD RUSH ———
An outdoor space is greatly
Royal Decks
This chandelier with its LED gold-steel cylinder rods exemplifies both a
enhanced with the addition of a
996 Westport Cres., Unit B-10,
rough and contemporary style. Illuminated by 16 three-watt LED lights,
hot tub, bar, roof and fireplace.
Mississauga
it measures 27.5˝D X 70.8˝H.
In addition to enhancing the look
905-901-3560
———
of a backyard, these elements
www.royaldecks.ca
Union Lighting and Furnishings
add functionality and protection
1491 Castlefield Ave., Toronto
from rain and sun, and they give
416-652-2200
you a reason to spend more time
www.unionlightingandfurnishings.com
outdoors. 1 3
2 4
4. RISE UP ——— Artist Erbil Tezcan creates Circle of Life, a reflection of his inner spirituality, reflected in the symbolism of the phoenix. The playful spots of colour illuminate
3. THE COCKTAIL HOUR ——— Cocktails always seem tastier when served from this bar cart, with its sinuous oval shape, designed by Thomas O’Brien. The fine metal detailing is carried over from the type of classically profiled fittings that he designs for his lighting. Available at Creative Avenues.
——— Creative Avenues 375 Fairlawn Ave., Toronto 416-783-0220 www.creative-avenues.ca
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THE OUTDOORS ISSUE
the message of rebirth in this stunning rug design, available at Weavers Art.
——— Weavers Art 1400 Castlefield Ave., Toronto ~ 416-929-7929 162 Bedford Rd., Toronto ~ 416-923-7929 255 Bass Pro Mills Dr., Vaughan ~ 905-660-7929 www.weaversart.com
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DESIGN
1. COLOURFUL STONES ———
2. ELEGANT SIMPLICITY ———
Rampart, from the Erbil Tezcan Collection at Weavers Art, was inspired
It’s the perfect spot for outdoor repose on a warm, sunny afternoon. The
by the texture of a stone wall. The colour palette includes hints of pale
Hemingway sofa, with its all-weather weave on an aluminum frame and
blue, corals and deep greys to convey the wear and tear of the stone.
feet, is upholstered in Sunbrella fabric cushions. 41˝D X 97˝W X 35˝H.
———
$4,535.
Weavers Art
———
1400 Castlefield Ave., Toronto ~ 416-929-7929
Casualife
162 Bedford Rd., Toronto ~ 416-923-7929
6 Shields Crt. Unit 1, Markham ~ 905-475-8353
255 Bass Pro Mills Dr., Vaughan ~ 905-660-7929
507 Lakeshore Rd. E., Mississauga ~ 905-990-5433
www.weaversart.com
www.casualife.ca 1 3
2 4
4. DOTTY ABOUT KATE ——— Gramercy by designer Kate Spade is a hand-tufted rug that has a soft and lustrous finish with dots that are a graphic punctuation. It’s 99 per cent wool and one per cent viscose with a 100 per cent cotton backing. Available in black.
——— Allan Rug 103 Miranda Ave. Toronto 416-787-1707 www.allanrug.com
3. STEPPIN’ OUT ——— Kawartha’s custom-cut Life Series stone steps are available in thicknesses ranging from four inches to eight inches, and can be cut to your specifications. Each step comes from the company’s quarry, and is sliced from solid four-billion-year-old Canadian limestone. Various finishes are available: natural, flamed, acid-washed or petrified treads.
——— Kawartha Custom Cut Stone 2586 Harrigan Dr., Brechin 1-866-503-8770 letusrockyourworld.com
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THE OUTDOORS ISSUE
INTERIOR | EXTERIOR | KITCHENS | BATHROOMS | FULL HOME ARCHITECTURE | DESIGN
Yorkville Village | Toronto 87 Avenue Road | 416 . 922 . 6620 www.yorkvilledesigncentre.ca Find us on Houzz and Facebook
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DESIGN
2. GORGEOUS GRAIN ———
1. STAR LIGHT, STAR BRIGHT ———
Lepage Millwork recently introduced Red Grandis to the company’s
Curvaceous and elegant, this
selection of wood species. The pale-rose lumber is grown from FSC-
fixture is crafted of four curved
certified plantations in South America and is similar to mahogany in
acrylic rods and sphere shaped
weight, density and machining. Offered by Lepage at half the price of
with a polished nickel finish. Lit
mahogany, this new species represents an excellent and durable solution
by four 60-watt lights, (six-bulb
for wood exterior windows and doors.
fixture also available) it measures
———
24˝W X 28.5˝H to 108˝ of
Union Lighting and Furnishings
Chateau Window & Door Systems
maximum height. Matching wall
1491 Castlefield Ave., Toronto
90 Tycos Dr., Suite #1
sconces are also available as well as
416-652-2200
416-783-3916
a brass finish.
www.unionlightingandfurnishings.com
www.chateauwindows.com 1 3
2 4
3. BANGLE BEAUTY ——— For the well-dressed wrist, this 14kt white-gold bangle is adorned with 0.55ct diamonds, and is available at Mark Lash.
38
———
4. LIVE OUTDOORS ———
Mark Lash
Séura’s Storm Ultra Bright
and sound quality throughout
480 Eglinton Ave. W., Toronto ~ 416-256-5229
outdoor television combines
any space. Adding lighting to your
9033 Leslie St., Richmond Hill ~ 905-881-5229
brightness with anti-glare
garden will create a beautiful
www.marklash.com
technology to give you picture
space regardless of the season.
clarity in any lighting conditions,
———
including direct sunlight. The
Trutone Electronics
Sonance Landscape Audio Series
980 Dundas St. E., Mississauga
is an outdoor speaker system that
905-270-3440
delivers even volume coverage
www.trutone.ca
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LI V E I N LUX U RY VIVRE DANS LE LUX E
TREMBLANTLIVING.CA chalet@tremblantliving.com | 1.888.932.1131
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DESIGN
2. PUT YOUR FEET UP ———
1. ROCK SOLID ——— Enhancing a home’s facade, Allstone’s Indiana limestone and Wiarton tiger-stripe stone are available in various sizes, shapes,
Meticulously hand-crafted using
Hide House
Allstone Quarry Products
exquisite leathers and hair on
49 Eastern Ave., Acton
16105 Highway 27, Schomberg, ON
hides, the Lily Hair club chair
519-853-1031
905-939-8491
can be used as statement piece
www.hidehouse.ca
www.allstonequarry.com
or paired with other furnishings. Available at Hide House.
shades, styles and textures. 1 3
3. SERENITY NOW ———
4. ORGANIC AND RUSTIC ———
The Serenity Bar, a custom-painted cabinet, is a stunning piece that
From the Atelier Collection comes Raftwood, engineered flooring made
fulfills several functions in a home. Distinguished by its subdued finish,
of European white oak. It boasts a rustic style and finish and planks that
it’s embellished by custom-designed, asymmetrical, metallic-palm door
measure more than eight inches wide.
pulls. It’s also versatile and can be used in an office, entertainment
———
centre or bar.
European Flooring
———
1310 Castlefield Ave., Toronto
Decorium
www.europeanflooring.ca
363 Supertest Rd., Toronto ~ 416-736-6120
416-967-9200
1212 Yonge St., Toronto ~ 416-515-1212 www.decorium.com
40
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THE OUTDOORS ISSUE
So beautiful, you may never leave the room again. Since 1963, Binns kitchen + bath design has been creating rooms of distinction and functionality that are a seamless blend of high style and world-renowned quality featuring the world’s leading brands. And now that we’re celebrating our 50th Anniversary that commitment has never been stronger. From design to completed construction, and everything in between, a Binns kitchen and bath is a better kitchen and bath.
C E L E B R AT I N G
50 Y E A R S Toronto 1055 Bay Street, 416.286.2222 Pickering 333 Kingston Road, 905.509.5555
www.binns.net
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DESIGN
1. FORTUNATE FIND ———
2. THE CLAY WAY ———
The Fortuna coffee table has a polished, black stainless steel base and a
Old Hickory brick by Brickcraft is crafted for the exterior facades of
beveled glass top. It’s 12.5 inches high and has a platform that measures
residential or commercial buildings. Available in various shades, styles,
65-by-65 inches. Available at Accents for Living.
colours and textures and available from Allstone Quarry Products.
———
———
Accents For Living
Allstone Quarry Products
8 Brock Rd. N., Guelph ~ 519-822-2929
16105 Highway 27, Schomberg, ON
243 Speers Rd., Oakville ~ 905-849-8537
905-939-8491
accentsforliving.ca
www.allstonequarry.com 1 3
2 4
3. HITTING THE RIGHT NOTES ——— The Atelier Collection features engineered European white oak here is Shubert, a rustic-grade
4. LUNCH IN THE PARK ———
plank that is distressed-sawn
The joyful life is expressed in this unique sculpture
and has an oil finish.
called Lunch In The Park by artist Maria Saracino.
———
Made of polymer clay, it measures 11 inches by 25
European Flooring
inches by five inches.
1310 Castlefield Ave., Toronto
———
www.europeanflooring.ca
Galerie Le Balcon d’art
416-967-9200
650 Notre Dame Ave., St. Lambert, Quebec
flooring called Maestro. Seen
450-466-8920 www.balcondart.com
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THE OUTDOORS ISSUE
Area Rugs • Sisal • Carpets • Vinyl • Hardwood • Laminate • Window Coverings
103 Miranda Ave. Toronto, ON. M6B 3W8 Tel: 416-787-1707 • www.allanrug.com • email: info@allanrug.com
DESIGN VANCOUVER KITCHENS 2017
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1-YEAR SUBSCRIPTION FOR ONLY $17.23 www.movatohome.com
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Facebook: facebook.com/movatohome
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DESIGN
ENTERTAINMENT
TONIGHT
AT H O M E Two revamped spaces make entertaining easy for ET Canada host Cheryl Hickey BY PHILLIPA RISPIN PHOTOGRAPHY: GILLIAN JACKSON STYLING: VANESSA SUPPA
CHERYL HICKEY IS REALLY JUST A HOMEBODY. Sure, she gets to interview the glitterati in her glamorous job as host of ET Canada, but home and family are important to her. It’s something that she realized from a young age. “When I grew up, there was an open-door policy at our house,” Cheryl says. “One really warm memory I have is my parents always had our friends and family over. There were always barbecues going, there was always music, there were always people around. To me, that is family. That is home. Now that our kids are getting out of the baby stage, we want to create that as well for our family.” •
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DESIGN TORONTO OUTDOORS 2017
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47
DESIGN
Cheryl’s kitchen is compact but functional. Cosmetic changes, including painting the cabinetry white and adding subway tiles to the backsplash, along with the uniformity of appliances in stainless steel, make it feel larger than it is.
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THE OUTDOORS ISSUE
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DESIGN TORONTO OUTDOORS 2017
Cheryl and her husband moved into their north Toronto home seven years ago. The house wasn’t quite perfect for them, and they talked about demolishing it and starting afresh. However, with a one-year-old baby, that seemed like a bad idea, so they settled in and decided to make incremental changes. One project was an addition on the back of the house to provide a dining space, extend the kitchen, and add a master bedroom and bathroom. Several years later, it was time to finesse those changes. It’s perhaps no surprise that Cheryl focused first on her kitchen, today’s favourite domestic gathering place. “That’s where it starts,” she says.
The original kitchen ended just to the left of the dishwasher. The extension made room for an island as well as an airy dining room. When it came time to give the kitchen its “facelift,” contractor Janos Nagy finished the job on budget, in a blistering week and a half.
Through the recommendation of a friend at ET Canada, Cheryl found contractor Janos Nagy, an invaluable help. He suggested changes – nothing radical, but enough to make a difference. The dark wood cabinetry was painted white, and the brown-and-white backsplash gave way to white subway tiles. The wooden windowsill was replaced with a slab of pale marble. The facelift also included removing the microwave oven above the stove and replacing it with a range hood. The cabinets received new hardware and were topped with crown molding. •
THE OUTDOORS ISSUE
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DESIGN
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DESIGN TORONTO OUTDOORS 2017
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If the kitchen can be said to have received a facelift, then the backyard underwent major surgery. Cheryl describes it before the change as “a big green space. There was no garden. It was grass and a crab-apple tree; that’s all we had. And it was great: we played baseball back there, the kids would run, all that stuff, but that was it. There wasn’t any entertaining space at all. There was nowhere for anyone to sit. “We decided that we really wanted a place where we, as a family, could relax, rejuvenate, and enjoy, and a place where family and friends could do the same.” One element that Cheryl was adamant about adding was a swimming pool. “That was something I grew up with, and my kids, they’re fishes; they love to swim. But when you have a pool, you need a deck, right?” •
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The lot is pie-shaped. The pool that Cheryl wanted is large: 14 by 32 feet. With children around, she’s very safety-conscious, so safety features such as fencing were paramount. She also wanted plenty of deck and patio space for entertaining. And she wanted spectacular lighting that would be nonetheless soft. The pool and decks cover about 50 per cent of the backyard, but because of the property’s wedge shape, the complete installation appears to cover nearly all of the yard. It offers a dining space under a pergola, with a barbecue area. There’s plenty of lounging space, open to the sun. A linear firepan provides drama beside the pool.
There’s a lot of deck in this backyard, so helical piles from Techno Metal Post were used, rather than concrete, to ensure a solid foundation.
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One unobtrusive safety feature is the railing around the pool, which is solid glass and has no top rail or support posts, so the view is barely obstructed. “This was very exciting for us,” Cheryl says of the transformation of her backyard and home. “I’m absolutely in love with it.” • ET Canada is broadcast weeknights at 7:30 p.m. ET on Global.
A glass wall fence by Regal Ideas has no top rail or support posts, providing safety with a view.
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DESIGN
“We decided that we really wanted a place where we, as a family, could relax, rejuvenate, and enjoy, and a place where family and friends could do the same.�
The outdoor furnishings are from D.O.T. Furniture. Decking and outdoor cabinetry: Trex; patio: Permacon; fireplace: Napoleon.
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NIGHT LIGHT
A vast choice of outdoor lighting allows homeowners to create the ambience they want
There was a time when the only lighting that homeowners installed outside was a porch light that would prevent visitors from tripping at night on the front walk. Times have changed. As outdoor spaces become extensions of the interiors of our homes, outdoor lighting has become more complex and more designed to create ambience outside. Toronto Home asked Litemode’s assistant store manager, Andrew Martelli, to tell us about trends in outdoor lighting and to offer his advice on how to create a well-lighted outdoor space.
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QUESTION: Andrew, the size of outdoor lights has changed in recent years. What have you observed in this area? ANSWER: Over the past year, we have observed many slim, tall, and streamlined pieces in the outdoor lighting market. There has been a shift, not only in the size of these fixtures, but in the shapes as well. Many square and geometric pieces have been introduced. Q: Tell us about the colour of outdoor lighting that homeowners are installing. A: Many homeowners gravitate towards the safety of black outdoor lighting, more than any other colour available. However, in recent product introductions, we’ve seen some beautiful bronze finishes that pay homage to colours of the past. I hope to see more customers take chances on finishes they wouldn’t normally choose, while selecting options that go with their brick and paint colours. We always encourage our customers to think outside the box and trust us to guide them to styles and finishes that complement the exterior of their homes and their personal style.
Q: What kind of outdoor lighting are customers asking you for these days? A: They ask for outdoor lighting that suits the overall style of their homes. With contemporary architectural fixtures on the rise, I predict that more homeowners will want these new, streamlined styles. Of course, no two customers are alike. The needs and preferences of one will differ dramatically from the next. With a vast array of styles and features to choose from, we’re happy to guide them to the perfect lighting solution for their homes and life. • Q: What types of lighting are available for outdoor use now? A: Manufacturers are no longer solely creating coach-style fixtures to satisfy traditional tastes. Unique pieces that feature LED integration and incorporate such materials as die-cast aluminum, solid brass, and stone inlays are available in contemporary, vintage chic, and industrial styling. Q: What trends are you seeing in this area and what is likely to come? A: Among the trends, we are seeing a shift towards vintage and industrial-style outdoor lighting. Homeowners of all ages seem to be embracing these styles, thanks to the availability of LED vintage-filament bulbs. Selecting a bulb that complements the overall lighting style is necessary and it finishes off the fixture beautifully. Q: What mistakes do homeowners make in the choice of outdoor lighting and how can they prevent them? A: A common mistake is selecting fixtures that are too small. Outdoor lights will appear to be half their actual size from the street. A good rule of thumb when placing lighting beside your entrance is to find a fixture that is a minimum of 20 per cent of your door’s height and is installed slightly above eye level. If a homeowner opts for incandescent light bulbs, I recommend using a 25-watt bulb instead of the maximum allowed. You want to create soft ambient light that allows for a warm glow. You want to prevent a strong glare that the maximum wattage would create.
Litemode 8355 Jane St., Unit 2, Vaughan 905-738-8889 www.litemode.ca
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AN OUTDOOR SPACE FOR FAMILY FUN This backyard in The Beaches neighbourhood is a draw for family and friends
BY SUSAN KELLY PHOTOGRAPHY: LARRY ARNAL STYLING: JILL SCHWARTZENTRUBER
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“We love nothing better than hanging out on the front porch to watch the kids play and to chat with the neighbours.”
IT’S A CASE OF FAMILY UP FRONT, party in the back for the owners of this newly built home in The Beaches area of Toronto. They happily ignore the unwritten rule about front yards being mainly decorative and backyards where the family enjoys outdoor living. “I guess we’re a little old-school,” says the stay-at-home-mother who lives in the five-bedroom home with her husband, an executive in the software industry, and three children under the age of 12. “We love nothing better than hanging out on the front porch to watch the kids play and to chat with the neighbours,” she says.
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The house is ideally situated on a dead-end street. Sparse traffic means the children are allowed to ride their bikes with their friends. The street also lets onto a large play area, the perfect place to play basketball, their favourite game. And the front porch affords an excellent view of all the street action. The couple takes it all in from the comfy upholstered cushions of a large sectional; it’s a little over seven-by-nine-feet long. It means there’s plenty of room for when folks drop by, as they tend to do in this friendly neighbourhood. A matching ottoman pulls up to create
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a conversation area. To minimize visual and actual clutter, a hammered aluminum drum coffee table provides hidden storage for extra pillows and throws. Whitewashed tree stumps do double duty as side tables and extra seating. Set against the siding in a shade called Deep Ocean, the effect is very beach house. And yet that was not the effect the non-nautical Toronto native was after. “I’ve just always loved the colour blue,” she explains, “especially rich shades like navy. I wanted to carry the interior white, gray and blue colour scheme out into both the front and backyard spaces.” •
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From the rear of the home, the couple enjoy an enviable view of lush greenery surrounding an adjacent golf course. And they love to share it when they entertain – and in a big way. That fact is reflected in the way the back patio doors fold to completely open the kitchen to the outdoors. It lets onto a 17-by-30-foot terrace, constructed of ipe wood and granite. It was all a blank canvas when the homeowners consulted Jill Schwartzentruber, owner of Casualife Outdoor Living. “Together we decided to also carry through the style of the interior, which is contemporary-transitional but also fun and upbeat,” says Schwartzentruber. The home’s design, with the exception of the landscaping, had been driven by the homeowner over a period of 18 months, supported by interior designer Rania Ismail of Fohr Design Studios. All of the outdoor furniture, including the Yoko sofa and club chair, is by Casualife Outdoor Living.
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The landscaping was done by Dave McLellan, owner of Written in Stone Landscaping. Landscape architect: Tara McCarthy.
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The main lounge area in the backyard was set up around the built-in fire pit, far from the barbecue station set off to one side of the house. To create a sense of connection between the front and back yards, the sofa and four deep-seated armchairs are of similar design with the same rich blue upholstery. Jaunty teak-topped side tables with aluminum frames add design interest. A sleekly modern teak table dominates the dining area. “Often teak tables are rustic, but this has very slender, sophisticated lines,” says Schwartzentruber. “The homeowners like things that are slightly unexpected.”
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Light-weight grey resin chairs complement without detracting. Overhead looms a 10-by13-foot tilting umbrella, cantilevered off a stand set to the side. The homeowner describes it as not only practical but “grand… with a presence.” A walkway off the patio leads to a secondary lounge area close to the surrounding green space. A sofa and matching club chair invite more intimate conversations. Dark grey upholstered cushions sit on a contemporary black aluminum frame with decorative slats. Their slim profile gives a light, airy feel and creates the illusion of space.
Casualife’s furnishings are weatherproof and can be left outside year-round. “Our aluminum frames will never rust and our weave will not be affected by moisture, hot and cold or by UV rays,” says Casualife owner Jill Schwartzentruber.
A rainy spring delayed the inauguration of the 2017 patio party season. But the couple intend to make up for it in a big way. “We love having people over and they like hanging out with us,” the homeowner says. “Now we have a space to show off and room for quite a crowd.” •
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DESIGN
GETTING THOSE ZZZS IN CUSHY COMFORT A Montreal company introduces a hybrid foam mattress that responds to the need for sleep
BY JULIE GEDEON
GETTING A GOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP is a luxury that everyone craves. Having the right mattress goes a long way to making good slumber happen. To facilitate good sleep, a Montreal company has created a hybrid foam mattress that contours to a sleeper’s every move. “We worked side-by-side with chemists to create a product that responds to the body like traditional memory foam but pops right back up as soon as a person shifts away,” says Jeremiah Curvers, director of marketing of Polysleep, the company that created the mattress. “The rebounded foam immediately encompasses a person’s new sleeping position, and the polyester/spandex cover keeps everything cool. “A plush top layer absorbs the body’s pressure points so people don’t wake up sore,” Curvers adds. “The mesh fabric allows the foam to breathe and bend.”
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Top quality is assured with 100 per cent Canadian materials. The mattress and foam are manufactured in St. Leonard while the mattress cover is made in St. Laurent. “We started the company a year-and-a-half ago, but it took us a good nine months to develop the ideal foam and mattress structure,” Curvers says. CertiPUR-US-approved, the mattress is safe even for newborns. “There are no harsh chemicals, odours or chance of the foam disintegrating into the air,” Curvers says. “It’s treated with an anti-microbial agent so if someone sneezes on it, germs won’t spread, and a liquid repellant ensures that any coffee spilt during breakfast in bed immediately beads to be wiped up.” Side rails are incorporated so the mattress keeps its shape even if somebody sits down to pull on socks. Integrating the side rails into a mattress that’s rolled up into plastic and a cardboard box for shipment was one of the company’s biggest challenges and best innovations.
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Every mattress – regardless of size – arrives in the same 17-by-17-by-41-inch box and weighs about half of what a traditional mattress would. The packaging makes it easy to get a king or queen through narrow staircases or hallways. “When the box arrives, just carry it into the bedroom, take the rolled mattress out, remove the plastic and let air refill the foam within half a minute,” Curvers says. Polysleep sells exclusively online to make its mattresses affordable. “We offer a 100-nights trial so if you don’t like it for whatever reason, we’ll pick it up and refund you, no questions asked,” he says. Delivery is across Canada. “We’ve shipped to some remote places, including summer cottages,” Curvers says. “Parents also like the convenience of sending a comfortable mattress for their kids away at school.” •
Polysleep www.polysleep.com 844-869-7659
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LANDSCAPE
FARM-FRESH FOOD AT HOME Canadians are increasingly cultivating their own organic, non-GMO produce in their backyards BY JULIE GEDEON
A JOKE THAT RECENTLY MADE THE ROUNDS on the Internet points to the effort many of us make to save a couple of dollars by growing our own tomatoes. Yet there’s something exceptional about watching the fruits of our labour come to harvest, and biting into food that couldn’t be any fresher. Despite the challenges of cultivating food, Canadians love their gardens. More than half of Canadian households (59 per cent) reported growing fruit, herbs, vegetables or flowers for personal use within the previous 12 months, according to a 2016 Statistics Canada report. Concern about pesticides and certain fertilizers has an increasing number of us turning to our own backyards for organic produce. Investing in the most local of food is another motivator as people become aware of the need for greater environmental sustainability. •
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Photo courtesy of Glenna Partridge
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Photos courtesy of Glenna Partridge
Eating local has gained new meaning for a Vancouver family who transformed a small backyard into a feast for the eyes as much as for the palate with the help of Glenna Partridge Garden Design. “Glenna’s artistry in arranging plants creates a multi-layered, multi-textured, colourful vista that enhances their appearance,” the homeowner says. Landscape designer Glenna Partridge always integrates a family’s preferred vegetables – and even fruit – as much as possible within the available space while also taking into account the sun, soil and drainage conditions to create a functional garden that’s stunning to view. She uses evergreens to establish yearround structure and punctuates the entire garden with one new bright colour of various annuals as an eye-catcher from early spring through late fall. “I plant the vegetables among the shrubs and flowers, taking advantage of the amazing colours and textures of their foliage, such as the multi-coloured hue of a Bright Lights Swiss chard, to create a beautiful aesthetic,” Partridge says. Incorporating tips from Mel Bartholomew’s Square Foot Garden, she plants densely to provide a gamut of fruit and vegetables and no large gaps when one is harvested. She notes the increasing demand for edible gardens as Vancouverites strive to eat organic produce and become more sustainable. Beginning from scratch, Partridge’s client took the opportunity to integrate a brainstormed wish list. “This is our forever home, so I wanted raised beds for when I’m in my seventies,” the homeowner says. “The irrigation system built into each bed is also wonderful.” Hooks within each bed hold a greenhouse sheet over plastic tubing to extend the growing season for root vegetables well into November. The raised beds also help the soil to warm up earlier in the spring so that carrots, peas, kale and lettuce can be planted in March. The beds are custom-made of long-lasting ipe wood and are incrementally graduated in height so even the farthest one can be admired from the back deck of the house. •
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Photo courtesy of Glenna Partridge
LANDSCAPE
Varied bed shapes invite exploration of the garden’s pathways. “I spend hours out here, taking breaks from my work to mindfully walk around to see what’s sprouting or to just meditatively gaze out at it all,” the homeowner says. “The garden has enriched my life and my family’s.” The initial spark for the garden was to produce fresh greens for healthy longevity in a sustainable way that also teaches the couple’s pre-teen son about growing organic food. “We planted artichokes at his suggestion this year, leaving some plants to flower, which was also his idea, because they’re just so beautiful,” the homeowner says. “He also helps to find new recipes for the food we grow.”
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Mélanie Coulombe, a landscape designer at Plani-Paysage in Terrebonne, Quebec, derives her inspiration from the kitchen gardens at the Château Villandry in France’s Loire Valley, teeming with vegetables in an ornamental showcase. “These potagières are magical,” Coulombe says. “It’s essential for the food gardens that I create to be as beautiful as they are practical.” She finds garden edibles are becoming increasingly popular among young people who not only love having fresh salad and herbs on hand, but also the pleasure of watching seeds break soil and grow into harvestable food. “They’re also keen to eat organic,” she adds. •
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Photo courtesy of Plani-Paysage
“It’s essential for the food gardens that I create to be as beautiful as they are practical.” — Mélanie Coulombe
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Photos courtesy of Plani-Paysage
Combining design skills with horticultural knowledge, she pairs up plants for not only the best visual effect but for long-term success. Marigolds and nasturtiums, for example, are both attractive and protective companion plants for tomatoes. Coriander helps potatoes to ward off pests while pleasantly occupying the space around the spuds. “My primary goal is to achieve the most visually pleasing effect,” Coulombe says. She wonders if the current trend toward edible gardens in the Montreal area began ornamentally, with decorative cabbages, for example, taking root in a once strictly floral gardener’s heart. “Edible cabbages now come in so many different colours and shapes to contrast wonderfully with other plants, especially mint which has a scent that wards off bugs,” Coulombe says. “Less structured planting among ornamentals creates a feast for the eyes.”
She again turns to European inspirations to position raised beds so they form a magical space. One of her recent projects converted a former driveway into a garden bistro. The homeowners can relax within a nook of raised garden beds filled with cucumbers, nasturtiums, kale, cabbages, Swiss chard and a variety of herbs within a modest space. Vine tomatoes and climbing beans provide vertical interest. “Several varieties of Spanish beans produce abundant flowers,” Coulombe adds. In Toronto, keeping racoons and other critters out of food gardens was the main challenge that Meredyth Hilton of Artistic Gardens undertook within her own backyard. “Having just completed major home renovations, we didn’t have the budget to install the elaborate landscaping that as designers we naturally want,” Hilton says. “So we took our interim steps as an opportunity to experiment with raised beds on behalf of clients who are increasingly requesting food gardens.” •
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Photo courtesy of Plani-Paysage
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Placing legged beds a good distance from trees and shrubs that otherwise could be used by various animals as launch-pads into vegetable patches seems to have done the trick. “We picked cedar to avoid growing food within treated wood,” Hilton adds. “And raised beds ensure our soil remains organic.” The family currently has basil, thyme, oregano, sage, mint, tarragon, lovage, marjoram and other edible herbs lushly growing in one bed, while another brims with various lettuces bordered by strawberry vines. “The pink f lowers in spring are spectacular,” Hilton notes.
Other beds are devoted to a variety of tomatoes and climbing beans. The modestly priced experiment proves how food gardens can be made a part of any backyard landscape. “And I love grabbing a bunch of greens for lunch as I walk through the garden from my office at the rear of the property back towards the house,” Hilton says. “So we’ll definitely incorporate the beds in our elaborate plans.” She’s finding the strongest demand for garden edibles among parents who want to teach their children about growing sustainable, healthful food. “We have the kids plant radishes so they can harvest them within 10 days,” she says. “They love it!” •
Photo courtesy of Artistic Gardens
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TRAVEL
A RENOVATION FIT FOR ROYALTY
Toronto’s century-old Omni King Edward Hotel gets a major makeover BY TRUDY KERMAN
THE WHO’S WHO OF CANADA’S ELITE have visited it. It has hosted such luminaries as Ernest Hemingway, Mark Twain and Louis Armstrong. The Beatles occupied its royal suite in 1964. And a king of England bestowed his name upon it. Toronto’s Omni King Edward Hotel has seen a lot of life since it was built in 1903, two years after King Edward VII ascended the British throne. This architectural beauty, designed by Chicago architect Henry Ives Cobb and Toronto architect E.J. Lennox for developer George Gooderham’s Toronto Hotel Company, was built for a then-staggering $6 million. It’s seen many upgrades in its 114-year life, including the addition of an 18-storey tower in 1922.
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But the latest renovation, which began in 2014, was an extensive $40-million restoration that upgraded the entire structure. The crowning touch was the $6.5-million refurbishment of the historic Crystal Ballroom, which dates to the 1922 addition and was the go-to venue for Toronto’s elite from the 1920s until it was closed in 1970. From the ’20s to the ’40s, big bands ruled the dance f loor, showcasing such kings of swing as Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Harry James, Tommy Dorsey and Benny Goodman. Toronto musicians held their own, with Romanelli and his Syncopated Swingers performing as the King Edward’s in-house band, back in the day.
The Crystal Ballroom’s ornate moldings and eight-metre-high coffered ceilings have been preserved in the renovation, while original floor-to-ceiling windows offer a panoramic view of the city. The 6,500-square-foot space comfortably accommodates 300 for dinner. Recently added features include a period-style bar and orchestra balcony. Updated chandeliers are in keeping with the style of the 1920s. “I was coming to a hotel that was being revived; I was very exited to be a part of this,” says Christophe Le Chatton, the Omni King Edward Hotel’s general manager. How to dust off and revitalize a century-old hotel while still accommodating guests is tricky and best done quickly.
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“The good thing about renovating all at once is that the design space flows from the rooms above to the meeting space, to the lobby. It all flows because it was done in one operation,” says Le Chatton. “We had to work with designers and contractors in a timeline that began in May 2014 and finished in May of 2015,” he says. Some 301 rooms were modernized on 16 floors, along with 22,000 square feet of meeting space and three other ballrooms. “The lobby was closed for nine weeks. It was a real challenge. We relocated the hotel entrance to the side,” says Le Chatton. Updated and restored to its former glory, the Crystal Ballroom was inaugurated with the grand opening in April, celebrated with a 1920s big band theme. Meals were re-created from 1920 menus. Staff were dressed in period costumes, with cigarette girls serving drinks, and dancers mingling in their retro looks. Guests included members of the business community, including the wedding industry, historical societies, tourism industry, and members of the hospitality trade. Visiting the King Edward is special, says Le Chatton. “So many milestone events have happened here.”
Amenities include a full-service spa, 24hour gym, high tea, and such family-friendly services as babysitting. Rooms that are wheelchair-accessible have roll-in showers. And pets are welcome in this venerable landmark that has been transformed into a jewel in the crown of Omni Hotels & Resorts. •
The Omni King Edward Hotel 37 King St. E., Toronto 416-863-9700 www.omnihotels.com/hotels/toronto-king-edward www.omnihotels.com
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EXACTLY WHAT THEY WANTED A couple work as their own designers in the makeover of their Oakville home BY SUSAN KELLY PHOTOGRAPHY: LARRY ARNAL
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The new open-concept main floor layout provided plenty of room for two separate living areas. Homeowner Diana is partial to spending time in front of the fireplace. Linear fireplace: Valor L2 Series; fireplace tiles: CÊragrès; sofas: Gus Modern.
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GIVE AND TAKE WAS THE KEY to the successful and stylish renovation of the main floor of this four-bedroom home in Oakville. “My wife Diana and I pretty much acted as our own designers,” says homeowner Nick Karadza, who owns a real estate brokerage firm and acquired some decorating chops revamping rental properties. “There were some things I was more adamant about and others that my wife insisted upon. But we have similar tastes and always worked it out.” Five years ago, the couple had purchased the property on a well-situated lot, intending to make it their family home. The two-storey house had good bones and lots of square footage: 1,800 on the main f loor alone. Daughter Ella, now seven, was then a toddler and soon second daughter Ava, now three, was on the way.
To shelter the children from renovation chaos, the homeowners made do with the 1980s-era outdated decor for four years. They did, however, dream and research design ideas on Internet sites. The couple’s tastes lean toward the modern side, but not so far that it becomes too minimalist and cold, according to Nick. When they were ready to get underway, they received a big assist from Dave Jurinic, owner of renovation company Toronto Custom Concepts, who acted as general contractor for the project. “The rooms were very closed off, and they wanted to remove virtually all walls and create a completely open concept,” Jurinic says. “That required a lot of engineering.” Five new beams, two of which were steel, had to be installed to support the upper floors. All plumbing and wiring also needed to be redone. •
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“The space needed definition, plus there was a vertical post I wanted to cover.”
The couple liked the scale and drama of the original staircase. Some black-and-white paint and a new banister brought it boldly into the 21st century. Chandelier: Union Lighting and Furnishings.
The Karadzas did retain one original feature: the front staircase. They liked its grand scale, but not the tired, dark-brown oak finish typical of the time period. After they’d reviewed many options, the treads were painted black to coordinate with the home’s black windows and doors, and the risers are white to harmonize with the palest gray walls. “I usually don’t advise painting hardwood,” says Jurinic, “but no stain would give the right effect here.” To complete the update, a new railing was installed along with more modern squaredoff spindles to replace the more traditional round ones. Because it would extend across the entire main storey, flooring was a major design decision for the couple. They scoured the city, collecting samples before deciding on handscraped and bleached-finish engineered oak flooring in seven-inch-wide planks. They next added some warmth to the colour scheme while also creating a focal point: A spectacular feature wall of book-matched walnut millwork grabs the eye and serves as a backdrop for the television. It also houses a virtually invisible closet with touch-open doors, perfect for concealing the children’s DVDs and toys. Beside it, the linear gas fireplace that Diana, a writer, loves to curl up in front of adds literal warmth. Another striking feature was Nick’s brainchild. A bank of dark gray floor-to-ceiling cabinetry, solidly in place despite the almost-floating look, stands at the bottom of the main stairs. “The space needed definition, plus there was a vertical post I wanted to cover,” he says. It also provides a niche in which to place decorative objects and a large closet to supplement the inadequate one by the front door. Behind the bank of cabinetry lies a room that is Nick’s alone, the study. He works from home half the time and needed a place where he could shut the door to do so. •
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Homeowner Nick needed a home office with a door to shut for some privacy. It is the one room on the main floor that is not entirely open to the others.
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The door in question — a barn door leading to the family room — is what topped Diana’s must-have list. She has always loved the look, and this was one item she wasn’t willing to compromise on. The couple were united in wanting it to slide along an unobtrusive track recessed in the ceiling rather than the usual exposed, clunky hardware. Although doing so posed some challenges for the installers, the homeowners feel it was worth it. While they both agreed that white quartz was ideal to top the 11-foot-long kitchen island, Nick had trouble seeing Diana’s vision for what lay underneath. She wanted cabinets covered in a quirky textured thermofoil product that emulates the look of bleached oak; he thought the island should match
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the rest of the pure-white, flat-front painted cabinets. She won out. “And now that it’s finished, I have to agree it was the right decision,” Nick says. Today, the kitchen has become the heart of the home, he says. He likes nothing better than making use of its integrated sound system — one of the least expensive amenities and almost an afterthought — while making brunch for his wife and daughters on a Sunday morning. The little girls love to perch by the island to wait to be served. And, because it’s so open to the rest of the main floor, the kitchen is also party central. “The house seems to absorb people,” Nick says. “At our first party we had 24 guests, and there was room for plenty more.” •
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The family enjoys time together in the kitchen. Key to the clean contemporary look is plain-front white cabinetry with linear brushed nickel hardware played against a backsplash of large format marble-look porcelain tiles. Tiles: Céragrès; all appliances: Jenn-Air; faucet: Graff Conical Collection; sink: Pro Chef.
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NOT YOUR AVERAGE LITTLE CABIN IN THE WOODS
This Mont Tremblant home offers luxury surrounded by Mother Nature’s beauty
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AH, THE PROVERBIAL CABIN IN THE WOODS. For generations it has been portrayed as that rustic little place where all its charm stems from being in the middle of nowhere. It’s quiet, private and comes complete with the sound of birds chirping in the morning, crickets at night and the calming acoustic of the occasional bee passing by during the day. Breathe in deeply. This is how you really get away from it all and unplug. But wait a minute; let’s think about this: If you brushed aside all the rustic romanticizing, it wasn’t really that glamorous. It was old, creaky and usually had some sort of plumbing problem.
What if there were a better cabin in the woods? What if you could get all the quiet and private you want and do it while relaxing in a luxurious estate? Throw in a few to-die-for mountain views, a private chef, your own hottub and a living room with a fireplace, cathedral ceilings that are simply stunning and panoramic windows. Now, breathe deeply. This is how you really want to get away from it all. “The vacation rentals business used to be: ‘I am renting your house.’ Now it’s: ‘I am renting your house with hotel services,” explains Joan Bou, president of Tremblant Living, which specializes in “superior luxury vacation rentals” in the Mont Tremblant area of Quebec’s Laurentian mountains.
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But Tremblant Living does not offer just any house. It has the most luxurious estates available. This includes the Forêt Blanche, a home on three levels in the Versant Soleil area of Tremblant, considered the most exclusive ski-in and ski-out residential area at the world-renowned resort location. Minutes from the casino, it is also the only rental in Tremblant that has a five-star rating, issued by the Corporation de l’industrie touristique du Québec. In fact, it is only one of five vacation rental residences in the province that has earned the CITQ’s top rating. “It’s not easy to find homes that meet our standards,” Bou says. “The expectations are high.” •
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So what should you expect from Forêt Blanche? It accommodates 13, has five bedrooms, eight bathrooms – including five ensuites – a gym, a hot-tub, sauna, a billiards table, three fireplaces, a gourmet kitchen, an elevator, WiFi, five flat-screen TVs, two deck areas and all sorts of space – 7,000 square feet in all. Those are just the stats. Now for a few details: Gleaming hardwood floors, vaulted cedar ceilings with spectacular A-frame beams, a dining room table that seats 12 comfortably, stainless-steel appliances, a professional gas range, two wine cellars and a living room area on the upper level that has amazing mountain views.
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Bou says the house is available for rent in every season. The most frequent renters are families, usually inter-generational groups, who are looking to vacation together. Often, friends who want to spend family vacations together share the space. But a growing segment is companies looking to host corporate retreats. It is for “privacy and socializing,” he says. “It’s a different atmosphere you create in a house in the forest. There’s a lot of bonding.” It’s not for everyone, he cautions, however. It’s not like a hotel where there is a restaurant off the lobby. If you don’t splurge for the option of hiring a private chef, which Tremblant Living will arrange for you, you have to do your own cooking. But there certainly won’t be any plumbing problems. •
Forêt Blanche rents for $1,425 to $3,840 per night, depending on the season. A three- to four-night minimum stay may apply.
Tremblant Living 1-888-932-1131 www.tremblantliving.ca
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Z6 Absolute Perfection
Toronto • Sherway Gardens • Mississauga • Vaughan • Hamilton Faema.ca
Inspire…Create…Perform
Please visit our new Showroom: 90 Tycos Dr., Suite #1 Toronto, ON M6B 1V9 416.783.3916 | chateauwindows.com
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MAKING ROOM OUTDOORS Perfectly appointed outdoor rooms take the good life outside in the warm months BY SUSAN KELLY PHOTOGRAPHY: LARRY ARNAL STYLING: EVELYN ESHUN
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IT’S ENOUGH TO GIVE anyone garden envy. An idyllic one-acre wooded lot, complete with rippling brook and Monet-esque pond dotted with lily pads and reeds. Overlooking it all, a 14-by-30-foot terrace offers ample room to dine next to the outdoor kitchen. Oh, and the Mississauga home is also very close to Lake Ontario. “It’s true I had a beautiful canvas to work with when placing the furnishings,” says Evelyn Eshun, principal designer at Evelyn Eshun Design Inc., who decorated the space with furniture. “But you can get a coveted look no matter where you live or how big the backyard.” A backyard need no longer be just a backyard. Add the right hardscaping, furnishings and accessories, and a once-humble space can be transformed into an outdoor room that rivals the indoor version. •
Creating activity zones is one of the most important steps in designing a backyard, according to designer Evelyn Eshun. Here, two inviting chaise lounges clearly mark this corner of the terrace as a place for relaxation.
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How do you make an otherwise ordinary yard a stunning space like this one for outdoor living? Here’s how Eshun accomplished it: CONSIDER THE CANVAS: First, empty the space and take a hard look at the hardscape. Varying textures create instant design interest, says this designer. Here, a traditional brick wall plays against earthy stone pavers and a weathered wood deck. Bonus: they feel good underfoot. If your own space is lacking, she suggests adding them, even if it’s only some new paving stones. Do get expert advice; beyond aesthetics, such factors as sun exposure and water runoff affect the choice of materials. ZONE OUT: “Next, it’s time to create zones,” Eshun advises. “Here the wood deck naturally defines the dining area, while paved areas are used for the lounge areas.” Step back and look at how you will use the space. Prioritize that which you do the most: sit-down dinners, lounging, barbecues, swimming. Throw rugs can instantly delineate a zone, as can strategically placing furniture and planters.
Outdoor kitchens are becoming a de rigueur feature, but you can keep it simple, says designer Evelyn Eshun. Here the barbecue and refrigerator are a backdrop to the dining area, which suits the homeowners’ lifestyle. Weathered parsons dining table and Kabu Gray all-weather-weave chairs: Belmont by Casualife Outdoor Living.
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STYLE MATTERS: There is no need to be too slavish to one period or style, Eshun says. In this garden, the brick wall and floral arrangements set a traditional English-country tone. Yet she used an egg-shaped modern love seat that would fit right in at a trendy spa. The shape tucks beautifully into the curved niche and instantly defines it as a space for private moments. As well, the massive weathered wood dining table is informal, bordering on rustic. It works because the Parsons-table style, is such a timeless classic, it goes with anything, and the wood finish is similar to the decking. The chairs around it were chosen from a different set. “Matched sets can look rather stiff and generic,” she says. “I prefer a coordinated look. One that looks intentional is much more interesting and easy to live with long term.” •
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DESIGN
ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS: Use fire and water to enhance the mood. People sitting in this garden are treated to the sounds of the pond’s running water. That element seems to have a universally soothing effect on people. And even a very small fountain tucked in a corner can provide big effects. No room for a fire pit? Consider adding a coffee table with an ethanol-fueled fire feature or strategically placed torches and candles. GO GREEN: Even if, as in this garden, you’re surrounded by greenery on three sides, it’s important to add some more to the outdoor living space. For one, f lowers and shrubs soften all the hard surfaces. They also help set the style; as in this garden, a riot of multi-coloured perennials say “traditional scheme.” For a contemporary look, monochromatic is the way to go. Using white flowers only can be the ultimate in chic, setting green plants in series or repetitions. Designer tip: When entertaining, take some of your houseplants outside and use them to create table centrepieces, as seen here.
Furniture can make a strong design statement and be highly functional. The designer liked the way this distinctive egg-shaped cabana loveseat creates a sense of cozy intimacy and offers shade from the sun. Sol Maya Daybed: Casualife Outdoor Living.
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When entertaining, advises the designer, consider supplementing the decor with plants and decorative items from indoors. Anything that remains outdoors, such as furniture, upholstery and cushions, must be weather-resistant. Sectional: Alyssa by Casualife Outdoor Living, cushions in Sunbrella fabric, Canvas Coal.
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COLOUR COORDINATE: Once you’ve created zones and invested in major furniture pieces, it’s time to have fun, says the designer. Splashes of colour can be added at whim and changed as styles or the seasons change. In this garden room’s patio sectional, the colours in the bright throw pillows reflect those in the surrounding planters. A bright turquoise throw and side table grace the secondary lounge area. “It’s nice to send such subliminal messages to both yourself and your guests,” Eshun says. •
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B E AU T I F U L LY NEED OUTDOOR DESIGN IDEAS? VISIT OUR OUTDOOR IDEA CENTER From traditional to modern, Unilock offers an unrivaled variety of colors, styles and textures you can’t get anywhere else.
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Great homes start with . North America’s largest lighting showroom, Union, now offers an exquisite array of furniture, lighting fixtures, designer inspired drapery, quality mattresses and a new outdoor patio gallery. Visit our newly expanded showroom today and experience our “Total Home” collection. www.unionlf.com
t: 416.652.2200
1491 Castlefield Ave. Toronto, ON, Canada, M6M 1Y3
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WHERE EARTH MEETS SKY Victoria artist Irma Soltonovich draws visual inspiration from living in big-sky country
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ART
YOUR ROOTS – HOW AND WHERE YOU ARE RAISED – play a major role in your life. They set the parameters of your formative years. And that can run deep. But for Irma Soltonovich, it also runs wide. Raised on a farm in Saskatchewan, Soltonovich was influenced by her surroundings, which gave her a sense of where she stood in the world. The vastness of the prairies left an impression. But it was the ethic that came with growing up on a farm that gave her an appreciation for hard work and honesty. These forces came into play for her as an artist. But to simply say they inspire her painting would be a cliché that mischaracterizes her work. No, for Soltonovich, her roots are her work. For her, it’s all about where things meet. “I would say I am an abstract landscape painter,” she says. “It means you can certainly tell what my paintings are. I am known for my landscapes. They’re long and narrow and always have a horizontal line.” Soltonovich, who lived in Alberta after leaving Saskatchewan, now lives in Victoria. “I like to live where sky meets ocean, or where sky meets land. It grounds me. It also somehow grounds me back to my childhood. It gives you a sense of place in the world – that you’re not the most important thing. The land – the terroir – is who I am.” •
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The horizon is at the centre of almost all of her works. “You are always reminded when you live in the Prairies that nature is really in command,” she says. Soltonovich grew up in Nipawin, a small rural town in central Saskatchewan, east of Prince Albert. “I grew up in a very rural existence,” she says. The family did not have a lot, she adds, but there was always something to eat. “We always had steak.” She left the farm as a teenager and attended what was then known as teachers’ college. From there she obtained a master’s degree. “I didn’t really paint till I got my master’s in fine art,” she says, explaining that she had always enjoyed drawing and had taken a few art classes while completing her undergraduate degree.
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“I am driven to do art from a different place than most artists.”
After completing her master’s, she went to the University of Oregon for a doctorate, but never completed it. “I quit my Phd. I was very disillusioned with the world of art education. I didn’t paint again – or draw, or do any art – from 1968 till 2001 – almost 35 years. I collected art. I hung out with artists. I taught art,” she says. But she did not paint. Soltonovich decided to go back to teaching, but not in the school system. She spent her days working with both youths and adults in the criminal justice system. She specialized in working with clients suffering from mental health issues, addiction and fetal alcohol spectrum disorder. It was a career choice that her family, especially her father, did not understand. Coming from a long line of teachers and farmers, she explains, “no one ever broke the law.” The work satisfied her creative need, however. •
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But Soltonovich would later return to her roots as she embraced her art in the launch of a second career. She returned to where the sky meets the land, where the horizon provides a sense of centre. “My capturing the landscape comes from seeing underlying structure and simplicity and from my drawing background. I am driven to do art from a different place than most artists,” she says. “I paint in spurts. I don’t paint every day.” Images of barren rocks, prairie fields and the line that defines the edge of the sky. These elements help Soltonovich share her sense of place. They run deep. And they run wide. •
Irma Soltonovich is represented by The Gallery at Mattick’s Farm in Saanich; the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria. Her website is: www.soltonovich.com
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.ca
B10 - 996 Westport Crescent, Mississauga, ON www.royaldecks.ca | 905.901.3560
Creating Backyard dreams...
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DESIGN
THE BEAUTY OF PIANOS The king of musical instruments is a strong design element in any home
If you’ve decided that the decor of your home is incomplete without a grand piano in the living room, Alex Thomson has some sound advice for you. As the regional general manager of Steinway Piano Gallery at Tom Lee Music in Toronto, Thomson knows pianos. Yes, pianos are the king of musical instruments. Yes, they allow us to entertain our dinner guests in style. And yes, they fill a room with beauty. But today’s grand pianos are more than just musical instruments. They’re striking pieces of furniture that enhance the spaces they occupy. Here’s how to find the perfect piano for your living room: QUESTION: Alex, grand pianos tend to be very large items. How does a homeowner go about selecting one of the right size? ANSWER: We usually say that homeowners get to decide on the quality of the instrument they’ll acquire for their family but the room will decide on the size. There are grand pianos that can fit into almost any space, from small condo-sized spaces to dream homes of any size. The best rule of thumb is to get the largest piano that will fit comfortably in the room. As well, you should opt for quality over quantity: a “quality-built” piano over a “quantity” large-size one. 128
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Q: Traditionally, grand pianos are black. Are there other colour options that can work with various decors? A: These days, there are so many options for finishes. From the classic black satin handrubbed and high-polish piano to exotic woods and custom-built pianos, anything you desire is possible. If you can dream it, we can make it. Q: What kinds of piano styles are available? Is it possible to find a style of piano that will be as much at home in a contemporary decor as in its traditional counterpart?
A: We’ve found that while small changes are made to the piano to make it more contemporary, the style of the piano is so classic, it’s timeless. Such things as changing brass accents to nickel, experimenting with different styles of wheels, different colours of plates or colours of finish – these are all things that go a long way to making the instrument unique and personal.
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Q: Is it possible to add design to a grand piano to transform it into a piece of art? If so, how? A: Absolutely. Steinway has been producing pianos that are as much a piece of visual art as musical art. The most recent example is a piano painted by artist Paul Wyse. Called “Pictures at an Exhibition,” it combines inspiration of the music of composer Modest Petrovich Mussorgsky and his friend, Russian artist Viktor Hartmann. Years in the making, it is one of the most unique pianos I have ever seen; and priced at $2.5 million
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US, it is one of the most expensive. Some other artists and designers that Steinway has collaborated with to create unique pianos are Dakota Jackson, Dale Chihully, Karl Lagerfeld, Tiffany, and Shi Qi. All are stunning and unique art pianos. Q: Are player pianos popular these days? A: Player pianos have been around for more than 100 years and they’ve waxed and waned in popularity. We are seeing a huge resurgence in player pianos with the release of the
Steinway Spirio system. It is referred to as a “re-performance” system because, in conjunction with the Steinway piano, it is so sensitive it’s able to replicate an artist’s concert. With more than 1,000 levels of expression available per piano key, it is bringing into the home the highest audiophile experience. It is something that everyone has to take the time to experience in person, a game changer. Q: Should the choice of a piano be determined by its function in a house? A: I think the choice should be determined less by its function in a house than its function in family life. What we know is that music is an integral part of children’s development, in all aspects of their education. As well, for adults, it’s a proven medium for relaxation, stress release, and creativity. I would say a piano is something for every home ... and if you don’t play, we have a piano for you, too. •
Tom Lee Music www.tomleemusic.ca Markham ~ 905-940-5397 Mississauga ~ 905-822-9000
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LOW-MAINTENANCE RENEWAL A Toronto garden is redesigned for adult homeowners once the children have fledged BY HEATHER PENGELLEY PHOTOGRAPHY AND STYLING: MEREDYTH HILTON
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LOW MAINTENANCE. The words elicit a sigh of relief from any urbanite with a hectic lifestyle. This deceptively simple garden is a place to socialize and a refuge in which the owners retreat from the daily grind at day’s end. And yes, it’s low maintenance. It’s exactly what the homeowners wanted. Three of their four young-adult children have left the nest. The couple divides their time between their city home and a 50-acre farm in Keene, Ont. that has an acre of flower and vegetable gardens. They decided to renovate the deep backyard that measures 24 by 175 feet about seven years ago. It had a worn-out deck, lumpy lawn, unsightly shed and a children’s play set. A family of skunks had taken up residence under the jungle gym. “We couldn’t get rid of the skunks,” says one of the homeowners. “Once, the dogs were sprayed twice in one week, and I said, it’s time to rip out the garden.” •
In three distinct zones, the homeowners can eat, play or relax with their dogs.
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A planter of tidy boxwoods hides a long, narrow cedar deck (viewed from the garden) and outdoor dining area (viewed from the house). From inside, the garden looks green and serene.
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Their open-concept house, bought in 1994, has no walls on the main floor. “When you walk in, you literally see through the whole house to the backyard. We had to look at that all the time,” she says. “It was horrible.” They decided to demolish the entire garden, “right down to the dirt,” and start from scratch. They turned to landscape designers Meredyth and Brad Hilton of Artistic Gardens Inc. for a completely new look. The 27-year-old company designs and builds highend residential gardens in Toronto. Meredyth Hilton, a friend and neighbour who knew the couple’s needs, proposed a “fun and different” garden. The couple agreed, as long as it was dog-friendly and required little weeding.
“We wanted something beautiful, serene, calming and very low maintenance,” says the homeowner. Hilton divided the garden into three functional zones: a dining area for entertaining, a patio for playing with their two Labrador dogs, and a seating area for intimate chats or relaxation. The central patio has indented alternating rows of 12-by-18-inch concrete pavers, laid upside down to resemble weathered flagstones. The ragged edges impart a visual respite from the backyard’s straight lines. Beds of cool blue and purple hydrangeas, fringed by blue-flowering perennial bugleweed (Ajuga reptans), flank the patio. The beds hide JC Group irrigation and lighting systems. •
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The cast-iron table, built by a Peterborough welder, is topped with inlaid glass tiles in a shade of blue that is reminiscent of the hydrangeas.
Bugleweed (Ajuga reptans) fills whimsical indentations in the patio that soften the garden’s straight lines and boxy structure.
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The homeowners discovered the Russell Woodard lookalike mesh chairs at an antique shop in Bailieboro, Ontario.
“We didn’t want grass, but we wanted the garden to have a lush, organic feel,” says Hilton. “From the house, the view had to look beautiful.” Because Hilton wanted people to see the garden without “staring through a jungle of table legs,” a planter of tidy boxwoods separates an eight-by-16-foot-wide cedar deck from a ground-level dining area, which sits atop pea gravel. Climbing hydrangea (Hydrangea petiolaris), pyramidal European hornbeam (Carpinus betulus ‘Fastigiata’), lilacs, weeping birch transplanted from Hilton’s own garden, and columnar maples hide tall cedar fences. The foliage adds much-needed privacy and serenity to an urban backyard overlooked by five neighbours. Three deep-seated, vintage mesh armchairs invite adults to linger in front of a brick feature wall at the garden’s far end. “It’s an anchor and a destination,” says Hilton. “People need a reason to go to the back of the garden and not cluster close to the house.” The wall, framed by two custom-built, cedar barn doors, conceals a garden shed and a storage area. Freeman maples, planted behind the wall, enhance the garden’s solitude. The non-working fireplace is filled with candles in the summer and holiday decor in the winter. “To have something peaceful like this is what we wanted,” says the homeowner. “We don’t see anybody. We feel like we’re in a little oasis in downtown Toronto. We literally do nothing and it looks beautiful.” •
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A LARGE SPACE FULL OF MANY CHOICES This Toronto lighting and furnishing retailer stocks a vast variety of brands BY SUSAN KELLY
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THE SHEER SCOPE OF WHAT’S ON DISPLAY at Union Lighting and Furnishings is staggering. At 100,000 square feet, the Castlefield Ave. showroom is enormous – or more conventionally put – the size of two football fields. “We used to give customers a printed guide,” says company president Mark Naimer. “But because the displays change so often, it’s better to have a sales associate show you around.” He means the myriad vignettes that fill the showroom. Since it is essential to see lighting in context, each is designed to show chandeliers, sconces and table lamps paired with furniture that might complement them. So you can stand under that retro sputnik-inspired Mid-century Modern chandelier and get the full effect. Or see how a sleek minimalist strip light will enhance the ambience of an ultra-contemporary bathroom.
Shoppers also get an interactive experience with one of the latest displays: A mini condo simulation showcasing Lutron’s whole home automation system. They’re encouraged to take a hand at controlling the cool LED linear lighting along with the audio, video and security systems. App-interfaced, it also controls the temperature and even the window blinds. “It’s like test-driving a new car,” Naimer says. “People love that they can get hands-on, try the controls and see how it really works.” He says the family business he’s worked in since age 12 added the “and Furnishings” to its moniker 18 years ago. At first it was about adding premium furniture brands to the mix. Today, the company sells just about anything needed to dress up a home, including its own brand of custom draperies. Enough to fully furnish and light many of the Greenpark Group’s dream homes for the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre Home Lottery.
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That includes a wide selection of outdoor furniture, with the emphasis on a highend look and on-trend style. In addition to some well-known international brands, the company carries the Couture Jardin label by Montreal designer Normand Couture. We liked the ingenious way it provides endless seating options for the patio. The sofas and chairs have interchangeable and removable backs and tables, so a sofa can be converted into a chaise lounge or the chairs and ottomans can be connected.
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Still, it really is mostly about the lighting at Union Lighting and Furnishings. And there’s plenty of room to get a good look at Visual Comfort & Co., the brand industry insiders covet. No wonder, what with many pieces signed by the world’s leading designers, including Barbara Barry, Aerin Lauder and Clodagh. “We expanded the department dramatically,” says Naimer. “Now it is larger than many standalone stores.” •
Union Lighting and Furnishings 1491 Castlefield Ave. Toronto 416-652-2200 www.unionlightingandfurnishings.com
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THE RIGHT
FIT After hiring the wrong contractor, a couple find the perfect designer to re-do their home BY SUSAN KELLY PHOTOGRAPHY: LARRY ARNAL STYLING: SVETLANA TRYASKINA
THE RENOVATION OF THIS WILLOWDALE TOWNHOUSE proved the best of times and the worst of times for the homeowners. The darkest days came when the original contractors failed to meet deadlines, leaving the home strewn with uninstalled millwork for almost six months. To make matters worse, what was completed fell far short of expectations. It began to strain the couple’s relationship, and they were losing their usual exuberant good humour. “Hiring a new designer was one of the best moves we’ve ever made,” says Michel Shum, who lives there with her husband, Jean-Pierre Ung. She credits Svetlana Tryaskina, principal designer and founder of Estee Design Inc., with “working wonders” over the home’s 1,400 square feet. •
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DESIGN
Michel and Tryaskina conspired to shield Jean-Pierre, a lawyer specializing in family law, from extra stress. The pair secretly drew up a whole new plan for the first floor. With its typical narrow townhouse layout, it needed a revamp. Storage was the biggest issue in the kitchen, entry and living room areas. When the homeowners went away on vacation, the designer and her teams went to work. One week later, the couple returned to a completed project—which was a complete surprise for Jean-Pierre. “Once he got over the shock and realized the television was at the right height, he really liked what we did,” says Michel with a laugh.
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New custom cabinetry, including a closet by the front door, was chosen to coordinate with Michel’s choice of large-format black porcelain floor tiles. One of the couple’s favourite features was designed by Tryaskina: a built-in dog crate for their Yorkshire terriers: Pooh and Prada. Incorporated into a bank of white matte kitchen cabinetry that is fingerprint-resistant, its design makes stylish and unobtrusive that which is usually an eyesore. There are also hidden compartments specially configured to store food bowls, leashes and toys. More important for the homeowners, both dogs love it. •
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A custom built-in front-hall closet and bookcase address the former lack of storage space. (Opposite) A storage ottoman doubles as a coffee table and tucks neatly away when not in use. Ottoman: Estee Design, fabricated by Gresham House Furniture; rug: Weaver and Loom.
One bank of kitchen cabinetry, two custom features: A niche was cut to make the microwave oven accessible and modish. And the integrated dog crate, almost invisible when closed, has proved a hit with both the homeowners and their two Yorkshire terriers.
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Designer Svetlana Tryaskina designed the kitchen to make the most of the garden view. Brass accents were used throughout the main floor to add a touch of warmth to the gray-and-white colour scheme. Table, chairs and chandelier: Elte.
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Another major surprise occurred during renovations when the couple discovered that baby Sebastien, now 11 months old, was on the way. That meant rethinking the secondfloor layout that originally had a guest bedroom and bathroom, and a combined study and dressing room for Jean-Pierre. “I had to give up my home office for the little guy,” says the doting dad, who now takes his laptop to the living room, “but I still get to store my clothes there.” The designer reconfigured a wall-to-wall bank of mirrored-door cabinets to house his wardrobe, which Michel jokes is the “most extensive known to man.” There is even room for his 160 ties, all colour-coordinated and accessible, as are his myriad socks and belts.
But the room is primarily a nursery, albeit one with an unconventional ebony and gray colour scheme. With black a trendy colour in nurseries today, the designer kept the original black textured wallpaper, and then softened the look with gray and white. It’s the room that garners the most favourable comments from visitors, the couple say, especially the 3D plaster wall sculpture created by Anthony Valin of Rustik Design Toronto from a sketch by Tryaskina. •
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Michel’s uber-pink dressing room includes his-and-hers hidden features: a fold-down ironing board for JeanPierre, a wall-mounted jewelry cabinet for her. Dressing table, lamp: Absolutely North; stool: Estee Design; paint colour: Benjamin Moore Fruit Shake.
Another of the home’s features, a wall-mounted ironing board that folds down, was installed with Jean-Pierre in mind. He regularly invades Michel’s bubble-gum pink (a shade she saw online and “had to have”) dressing room to use it. His profession requires at least five crisply pressed dress shirts per week. “And I find ironing relaxing,” he says. “There’s something very satisfying about it.” When the board is folded up, a mirror with a custom lacquered frame is visible. Tryaskina enjoyed coming up with custom solutions for the couple. Also in Michel’s dressing room, she created a slim-line panel mounted on the wall and covered with a luxe European fabric. It opens to reveal a cabinet housing the jewelry that Michel loves to collect. That panel in turn opens to provide access to an electrical panel. “They’re so unsightly and no one knows what to do with them,” says the designer. “This makes it a feature that’s both useful and attractive.” •
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With space at a premium in the long narrow living room, Tryaskina designed an ottoman that tucks away under the custom television stand. With integrated storage, it provides extra seating and converts to a coffee table with a flip of the top. The designer combined new elements with some existing ones to give the home a cohesive modern-transitional look. The classy and elegant approach is most evident in the third-floor master bedroom with its ensuite bathroom. A serene colour scheme predominates, with layered textures on walls, floors and window treatments.
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The designer created not only a grand entrance to the home, but one the homeowners feel captures their sense of fun. Custom mirror with mother-ofpearl frame: PI Fine Art; chairs with Mongolian lamb upholstery: Estee Design; wallpaper: Ellie Cashman Design.
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In contrast, the front entryway decor reflects the couple’s sense of fun. Michel had seen the dramatic f loral wallpaper in the designer’s home and fell in love with it. A oneof-a-kind wall mirror with a mother-of-pearl frame hangs above a pair of bronzed chairs designed by Tryaskina; they are upholstered with two-toned Mongolian lambskin. The homeowners admit they don’t make full use of the kitchen amenities. With Michel’s parents, who love to cook, living across the street, and many restaurants nearby, there isn’t much need. The couple find the home really works for them and their lifestyle; it’s the ideal place in which to bring up baby. “Having experienced the best and worst of renovations, I think you can have the best,” says Michel. “But you have to pick the right people to work with.” •
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ART
A Montreal company produces artworks that can be displayed outside BY SUSAN SEMENAK
Art by Andrea Sampaolo
THE ART OF OUTDOOR LIVING
WHY IS IT THAT THERE’S ART in just about every room in the house, but almost never any outdoors? That’s the question that led Nancy Lahaie and Marie-Claude Marchand to launch their company deiNERI, which specializes in outdoor art - or as they call it “art without boundaries.” “No one ever considers a room without something on the walls,” says Lahaie. “But outdoors, art rarely comes up. People don’t
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want to drill into exterior walls. Or they worry about damage from the elements.” The two scientists had worked together in the biotech industry decades ago. They met again at a chance meeting while on separate vacations in Florence, Italy, and began working together as business consultants. One of their first clients was an artist looking for new ways to exhibit his paintings. And that’s how the idea of art for outdoors came up.
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Art by Jean-Claude Poitras and Omen
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Lahaie and Marchand tested materials, such as acrylic glass and UV-resistant inks, that would withstand sun, rain and high winds. Then they designed a free-standing steel base which could reliably hold the 54-inch-tall and 22-inch-wide panels on which the artworks are displayed. They set about curating a selection of works by artists, both new and established, working in a variety of styles from
contemporary, abstract and urban to traditional, and in media that include oil and acrylic paints for original pieces or special inks for reproductions. One collection is from fashion designer Jean-Claude Poitras, who lent bold black-and-white and colourful fashion sketches. Another is from Montreal artist Kevin Ledo, who recently painted the Leonard Cohen mural in Montreal. •
“An outdoor painting is a very stylish way to modernize a space, to add a touch of personality.”
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Art by Liz Davidson
ART
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Art by Vicki Filiault
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So far, deiNERI’s stand’Art units have been selling in Montreal, New York and Miami, with a few buyers in Europe. They are used as privacy screens on condo balconies, patios and courtyards, and as sculptural elements by swimming pools. Prices range from $2,000 for works by an emerging artist to as much as $8,000. Buyers can even supply their own images: a family photo or a cherished landscape, which deiNERI prints on its acrylic glass or tempered-glass panels. “An outdoor painting is a very stylish way to modernize a space, to add a touch of personality,” Lahaie says.
The company’s stand’Art units were conceived for the outdoors, but Lahaie says they also make great indoor art. Some buyers have used them as room dividers in large open lofts or behind a sofa in an open-concept living room. deiNERI is one of the winners of the Claudine and Stephen Bronfman Foundation’s emerging entrepreneur contest, an initiative that recognizes and rewards Québec entrepreneurs who contribute to the evolution of business by demonstrating creativity and innovation. The stand’ART was also a finalist for product of the year at the Grand Prix du
Design 2017, and was nominated for a Best of Year award by Interior Design Magazine. “What we’ve done is take two-dimensional art off the wall and make it free-standing and resilient – outdoors or in,” Lahaie says. •
www.deiNERI.com
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THE NEXT GENERATION OF DECKS The newest building products for decks have usurped the use of wood
What could be more inviting in a backyard than a well-designed deck? Today’s decks have come a long way since the days when they were simply extended, elevated wood porches. And the materials used to build them are also different. We asked Miro Simecek, owner of Royal Decks in Toronto, for his input on the current trends in deck materials. QUESTION: Miro, we are hearing a lot about composite materials used to build decks now. What are composites? ANSWER: The term “composites” commonly refers to low-maintenance decking materials. In fact, there are two types of low-maintenance decking products: composite and PVC. Composite is usually made of wood or other organic component combined with plastic resins. PVC – or polyvinyl chloride – decking doesn’t contain anything organic. PVC decking is what we use most.
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Q: It used to be that pressure-treated woods and cedar were coveted materials for decks. Are they still? A: The trend is definitely moving toward low-maintenance products and away from wood. Most of our clients choose the convenience of low-maintenance products because they offer durability, longevity and a worryfree experience. Q: Why would homeowners opt for composite materials instead of wood? A: Good-quality, low-maintenance products are a more costly option. However, people choose them over traditional wood because of how long they last. There is no need to stain the planks every year. The appearance of these products has also improved a lot in the past five years. Now there are options that look as good as wood, but don’t have the drawbacks of wood.
Q: What products are you using? A: Most of the products we use are PVC products, such as Azek decking and Zuri decking. Azek offers a wide range of colours and lines; Zuri specializes in premium products with wood-like textures. Q: What is the advantage of using composites instead of wood? A: Wood decks generally last less than 10 years. Most of the composite or PVC decking products have warranties that guarantee they last twice as long. •
Royal Decks www.royaldecks.ca 905-901-3560
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THE GREAT CANADIAN COOKOUT Homeowners are installing kitchens outdoors for alfresco cooking, dining and entertaining BY JULIE GEDEON
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THERE WAS A TIME WHEN ALFRESCO DINING was a process that began indoors. Food would be prepared in an indoor kitchen and carried outside to be consumed under the sun or stars. An increasing number of foodies who like to dine outside, however, are now opting to have kitchens outside, too. These outdoor kitchens are so well equipped that they rival their indoor counterparts. Clunky brick-and-mortar setups have given way to sleek workstations that fit outdoor appliances like a glove and withstand any weather. The array of options has a lot more people cooking with gas on their patios, decks and rooftops from early spring through late autumn, if not year-round. • Photo by Christina Esteban
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Baby boomers are driving the trend, according to Ryan Bloom, founder and co-owner of Urban Bonfire, a one-stop outdoor kitchen design, manufacturing and installation company based in Montreal. “Retiring boomers are downsizing from their large suburban homes, but they’re not willing to give up their outdoor enjoyment or entertainment,” Bloom says. “So they’re actually making their new condo homes larger by investing in an outdoor kitchen and entertainment space.” A case in point is one Montreal couple who downsized from a single-family home to a condo in Point St. Charles. They’ve capitalized on the city’s skyline view from their sixth-floor patio. They had Urban Bonfire set up their outdoor kitchen to look out at the downtown skyscrapers and Mount Royal as well as the Lachine Canal below.
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Photos by Christina Esteban
“I don’t regret downsizing for a second because of this indoor/outdoor setup.”
“My wife and I have this unbelievable view while we’re making a meal several times a week,” says one of the homeowners. “And everything we need – plates, serving platters, barbecue utensils, meat, vegetables, and even cold beverages – can be stored in the outdoor modules so that we don’t have to keep going in and out.”
The couple have significantly increased their patio entertaining because their outdoor kitchen makes cooking so easy, and guests appreciate the urban panorama. “I don’t regret downsizing for a second because of this indoor/outdoor setup,” the homeowner says. “After seeing how we have the best of both worlds, several of our friends have put their houses on the market, too.” •
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A greater value placed on time has younger couples opting for smaller urban homes and likewise investing in outdoor kitchens to expand their family and entertainment space. “What’s nice is that we make everything in modules so an outdoor kitchen can be taken apart and quite easily moved if people change locations,” says Stefan Marchant, also a coowner of Urban Bonfire. “The modules are fairly light, which is particularly important for rooftop terraces.” Vast improvements in barbecue grills as well as television cooking shows dedicated to alfresco eating have more people investing in outdoor kitchens, which boost the value
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of their homes. “Property owners who invest in a good landscaper and outdoor kitchen designer are still in the minority,” Bloom says. “So their backyards make the strongest impression on prospective buyers.” Outdoor kitchens are particularly gaining popularity in prime real estate locations. “With the crazy Vancouver housing market potentially making a move so expensive, more people are deciding to invest in outdoor kitchens to expand the functionality of their current property,” says Ben McIntosh, a designer/business developer for Genesis Kitchens & Design in Coquitlam.
DESIGN TORONTO OUTDOORS 2017
lot,” McIntosh says. “And the pizza oven has a stone base that can get up to 700 degrees Fahrenheit to bake chicken and a lot of other things besides pizza quickly.” Skilled outdoor kitchen designers pose various questions about a family’s lifestyle and intended use, along with assessing the available space. “For instance, which way does the wind usually blow so we can prevent smoke from entering the house?” McIntosh says. “And is the house fridge right inside a patio door, or will you have to walk some distance and trek up and down steps to get to it?” •
Photos courtesy of Genisis Kitchens
Another key motivator: spending as much time outdoors as possible. “We’re getting so many calls as people realize how convenient these kitchens are for maximizing outdoor time with family and friends,” he says. “We often recommend purchasing weather-proof, glare-resistant television so homeowners can gather friends outdoors for a major sporting event or movie night, as well as just enjoy warm days as they’re preparing family meals or simply relaxing on their own.” Options abound with everything from pizza ovens to beer kegerators. “The beer pump is great for people who entertain a
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Photo courtesy of Genisis Kitchens
Many people are choosing to build a pergola off an existing pool house so they can take advantage of the available plumbing to install an outdoor sink. A covered space is optimal. “If an outdoor kitchen is covered by a pergola, awning or other roof structure, it typically gets double the use,” Bloom says. “We have clients grilling year-round because a grill is quite warm if there’s no snow falling on top of you.”
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Rain cover is pretty much essential on the West Coast. “We also installed a couple of outdoor heaters so that we get a good nine months of use from our setup,” McIntosh says. Improved stainless steel materials weather the elements and fit snugly together to prevent mould or mildew. Powder coatings offer a range of new colours and provide additional protection. Shaker cabinet designs mimic the warmth of wood minus the maintenance, although stainless slabs remain popular for a modern chic.
Photos by Christina Esteban
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Counter space is becoming more of a priority as homeowners seek to replicate the modern kitchen’s island hub as an outdoor nucleus. “A lot of people are extending the counter to include a bar area,” McIntosh adds. Designers highly recommend Dekton for outdoor countertops. Available in dozens of colours, the non-porous composite is resistant to ultraviolet light so it won’t fade or degrade. “It’s also ideal for outdoors because it’s lightweight and extremely stain-resistant,” McIntosh says. Outdoor kitchens have become more affordable for many with the gamut of good products. “Our grills range from $1,500 to $30,000,” Marchant says. “And if, for example, a homeowner decides one day that he wants a meat smoker, we can simply add that module.” •
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LANDSCAPE
COMMON SCENTS Aromatic plants enhance a garden, whether it’s a vast border or a single container BY TRACEY MACKENZIE
Lavendar
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Linden
Heliotrope
Mint
Honeysuckle
A WAFT OF LILAC BLOSSOMS in the warm spring air. A whiff of heliotrope in a window box. The aromatic punch of an allée of lavender. A street lined with lindens. Plant scents have the power to trigger vivid memories, to transport us back in time. And when those scents are planted in our gardens, they can have a strong impact on our psychological well-being. Many a bad day has been turned to good through the simple gift of flowers, and when those flowers engage the olfactory sense, the “good” gets better. Whether scented plants populate our backyard borders or our container gardens, they are a gift to the soul. Choosing the right aromatic perennials, annuals or flowering
shrubs and trees can turn an average garden into a sea of scent that attracts butterflies, birds, bees, and us. “Herbs such as lavender, mint and thyme, are great for pathways because their scent is released as you brush up against them. They also work well in window boxes,” says plant expert Stephen Scheunert, owner of Pointe Claire Nursery. “Lavender is also a popular plant for container gardening and border edging.” If you have the space, consider planting f lowering shrubs and trees. Lilacs, honeysuckle, and lindens release strong scents in the spring. •
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Schuenert also recommends Brugmansia (commonly called Angel’s trumpet), in a large container on a patio or deck. It’s tropical so must be moved indoors for the winter. “Perennials such as lily of the valley, evening primrose and Stargazer lily, are also very fragrant,” Scheunert says. “If you want to plant bulbs, freesia and hyacinth are also popular.” Planting scented flowers and shrubs strategically throughout a garden can add scent at various times of the day and year. Lily of the valley, for instance, has a constant scent, while evening primrose and jasmine release their aromas only after the sun sets, so they should be placed near a seating area.
Hyacinth
Jasemine
Lily of the valley
Urban dwellers and anyone who is daunted by the task of cultivating a garden can opt for containers. Lily of the valley does well in pots, but because it’s poisonous, it shouldn’t be planted where children play. Hyacinths require more care but their fragrant blooms are definitely worth the effort. Jasmine is fragrant but releases its scent only at night. Rosemary is another good choice for containers because it’s easy to grow, has a strong, herbal scent and bears tiny purple flowers.
Rosemary
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Petunia
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Deep purple petunias and heliotrope in a window box or clay pot can make evenings on a deck or patio a sensuous experience. Herbs also fill the air with delightful aroma. Lemon balm, a member of the mint family, helps to keep mosquitoes at bay. But like mint, it ramps through a garden so is best confined to pots. Basil, which foodies cultivate for cooking, renders up strong scent when touched.
Basil
And at the end of the summer, lavender can be harvested to create scented sachets for drawers and closets; it deters insects while delicately perfuming surroundings. One whiff in the darkest days of winter can recall the brightest days of summer. Add lavender to sugar as a perfect addition to Earl Gray tea. Whether you create a sweeping backyard garden, a container garden or simply have a few window boxes, the addition of scented plants will fill your olfactory sense, enhance your life and improve the environment. •
Lavender
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We’ve all asked that question before at some point when walking by a street kid. Why can’t they just get off the street? Why can’t they grow up and take some responsibility by going to school and getting a job? Well, imagine being that street kid for a second. Getting a life is not a simple snap of the fingers. It isn’t easy to just get a job or an education. And they can’t always just go home. For street kids, every day is survival. Their life is based on simply getting through it. Finding food and shelter is their job, and even overcoming that doesn’t put them in any kind of position to find stability in their lives. Getting off the street is just the beginning. So let’s start from the beginning. We’ll call this kid Steve. Steve’s day starts at sunrise in a public park. The sun hits him dead in the eye and he wakes up shivering. Steve springs up from the bench that he slept on to make sure his stuff is still under it. It’s almost nothing, a backpack with a couple of sweaters and a thermos in it, but two nights ago he almost got beat up for it. He was walking through a different park across town when three guys sitting on a bench asked him if he had a cigarette. Steve ignored them and kept walking, but he knew they weren’t through with him yet. After verbally harassing him, they stood up and moved to surround Steve. He began to shake with fear. Steve told them again that he didn’t have anything, but they didn’t care anymore. They weren’t going to leave without something. They began to step closer to Steve. And closer. One pulled out a knife from his back pocket. Just as another guy tried to grab Steve’s backpack, Steve darted through an opening just out of their reach. They chased him for a few steps, but Steve was already far away, his backpack still in his possession. This morning, Steve’s exhausted and he needs to get out of the wind. He picks up his backpack and spends the next two hours looking for an alleyway. Hopefully he can find one that’s quiet, and, if possible, has boxes or newspapers that he can use to protect himself from the biting chill. Steve scours the alleyways in his area and finally settles on one. It seems perfect and he can’t remember why he doesn’t sleep there more often. He finds a spot, puts his head down and begins to doze off. The sounds of the city fade. He falls asleep. He dreams. In this fleeting moment, everything is OK. He’s in his old home, in a warm bed, everyone’s calm and there’s breakfast waiting for him when he decides to – “Get up, kid,” says the police officer standing over Steve. Steve opens his eyes as the officer informs him that he needs to clear out immediately. Steve rubs his eyes. Now he remembers the problem with this alleyway. He stands, picks up his things and starts his day again. Steve can’t stop thinking about his dream. But that’s all it was. Nothing like his actual life at home. He can still feel the pain from his father’s fists. Hear his mother’s screams. Things had been getting worse and worse at home since his father lost his job. It all started when his father came home drunk from the bar one night. Steve remembers the red mark on his mother’s face the next morning and refusing to believe what was unfolding around him. But that refusal only made things worse, because Steve could never convince his father that he needed help. So it continued, one incident after another until one night, it wasn’t just Steve’s mother that was on the receiving end of it. It was him. His mother screamed louder when Steve was being beaten than when she was, and those are the sounds that haunt Steve every single day. The bruises are gone now, but the mental scarring never will be. Steve manages to snap back into reality, but reality isn’t any better. Steve has not only had very little sleep in the past couple days, but also very little food. He really doesn’t feel like rummaging through a garbage can this morning. That means it’s time to go onto the street and beg for change. He’ll never get used to doing this, but he’s had to learn fast. Having to decide which street corner to sit on and beg strangers for change isn’t something he ever envisioned doing. He decides on a busy corner downtown and begins the hike in that direction. He hopes that the long walk is worth the extra money he’ll receive for being in a busier area. At least it isn’t winter yet. The very thought of spending all winter on the street sends chills down Steve’s spine. He’s felt a Canadian winter before. He can’t still be out here by then…can he? When Steve finally arrives, he sits down on the street corner and takes off his toque. He eyes the people walking by and begins to beg. “Change please?” is what he usually says, but today he’s a little more desperate. He’s painfully hungry and it shows in the anguish in his voice. Steve always tries his best to not worry about what other people are thinking, but it’s hard. He can see the way they look at him. People are either scared of him, disgusted by him or they ignore him altogether. He’s not sure which one is worse, but sometimes it feels like everyone hates him for one reason or another. Today, one person in particular is very aggressive when Steve asks him for change. He tells him that he’s a loser and that he should get a job. After a few hours and thousands of passersby later, Steve has $7.24, just enough for a burger combo. After waiting for a few moments, Steve slowly picks up the change in his toque. He stares at it, scared of what he might do with it. It takes him all the strength he has to not use the money for something else. Two weeks ago, someone else on the street started giving him free “samples.” When you’re in a dark enough place, sometimes you’ll do whatever people tell you will make you feel better. It doesn’t matter who that person is. It doesn’t matter if deep down you know that what they’re offering isn’t a way out at all, but another anchor to keep you drowning. On these dark days, hope is replaced by distraction. Steve is constantly tempted to just let go and get away, but today he somehow fights that temptation off. He gets up and makes his way towards the restaurant. When he gets to the front of the line, Steve dumps the change on the counter before ordering. The annoyed cashier counts it as the people in line behind start to get restless. Steve tries to recall the last time he didn’t have to pay for something in change, but can’t. It’s always embarrassing, especially when the line is as long as this. He asks the cashier if she can unlock the bathroom for him and she hesitates. Steve is rarely allowed to use a public bathroom, even as a paying customer. But today, the cashier doesn’t want to keep the other customers waiting so she unlocks the door. Steve splashes water onto his dirty face inside the bathroom. He studies his reflection in the mirror. How long can he keep doing this for? When will this nightmare end? No kid should have to live like this. As he rinses, he begins to daydream. He thinks about the feeling of having a nice, long shower in a real bathroom. He steps out onto the cool floor and dries himself off with a soft, fresh towel. Steve is snapped out of his daydream by the sound of a knock. He opens the door to find the manager. He has to leave now. Steve puts his head down, grabs his food and heads outside. Later, with his hunger temporarily gone, Steve is back in his only home – the street. Back where he has no hope. There have been days when the shame has been too much, when Steve tried to find a way out. Steve recalls a time a few months earlier when he first started living on the street. He had woken up with a sense of hope that day he never felt before. He had slept in an abandoned warehouse another guy told him about and managed to split some breakfast with someone else staying there. That day, Steve was allowed to have something on his mind besides finding food, finding somewhere to sleep and trying not to get mugged. So, he wanted to do what so many strangers have told him to do before – get a job. Steve was walking down the street when he noticed a convenience store with a “Help Wanted” sign in front of it. Steve took a deep breath and walked into the store. He went straight to the cashier at the front and asked about the sign. But all he got back were insults. The owner told Steve that he sees him on the streets every day. He told him his clothes were a mess. That he must have been insane to think anyone would hire a stupid, lazy homeless kid. Steve slunk out and glanced back behind him at the “Help Wanted” sign. This had happened before. He didn’t understand why no one would give him a chance. He doubted himself to the point where he began to wonder if he would even be able to trust the person who did. That was the day that Steve realized that the hill he had to climb was actually a mountain. Steve hears a car’s honk that snaps him back to an all too familiar reality. He’s out of money again. He has no place to go. He feels physically and mentally beaten. And soon it will be nightfall. Soon he’ll be back at the bottom of the mountain once again. This is just a glimpse into Steve’s struggle and the struggle that so many homeless youth face. There is no living, only surviving. And when you’re trying to survive on the street, every little thing is an obstacle. Every time you beg for change, every time you go to the bathroom, every time you want to sleep, eat or drink – nothing comes easy. For many kids like Steve who want a way out, the struggle to meet basic needs is only the beginning. The coming days, weeks and months provide hurdles even harder to overcome. The physical pain may lessen in leaving the street behind but the mental anguish is constant when trying to forge a new life. Getting an education, applying for a job, admitting that you need counselling – these are hard for anyone. When you have to do all these things from scratch, the frustration can mount as fast as the confidence can fade. From learning how to stay warm in that first winter on the street, to the first day back at school, from deciding whether to steal food or pass out from hunger, to deciding where to get a shirt to wear for that first job interview, there are endless obstacles for homeless youth.
It’s also why we exist. Please visit CovenantHouseToronto.ca to donate.
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Greg’s Biography
As a scientist, broadcaster, author, coach and athlete, Dr. Greg Wells has dedicated his career to understanding human performance and how the human body responds to extreme conditions. Dr. Wells is an assistant professor at the University of Toronto. He also serves as an associate scientist of physiology and experimental medicine at The Hospital for Sick Children. There, he and his team explore how to use exercise to prevent, diagnose and treat chronic illnesses in children.
Throughout his career, Dr. Wells has coached, trained and inspired dozens of elite athletes to win medals at World Championships, the Commonwealth Games and the Olympics. He has studied athletic performance in some of the most severe conditions on the planet, like the Andes Mountains and the Sahara Desert.
Dr. Wells has had his own experience with the challenges of adversity and human extremes. Late in his high school career, he broke his neck in a freak accident while swimming in the ocean and was in a halo brace before undergoing neurosurgery. Told by his doctor that he would never perform as an athlete again, he went on to compete at the international level in swimming. He has competed in events such as the Nanisivik Marathon - 600 miles north of the Arctic Circle - Ironman Canada, and the Tour D’Afrique, a grueling 11,000-kilometre event that is the longest bike race in the world.
Dr. Wells is a frequent contributor to The Globe and Mail and has been an expert source to other top media outlets like ABC News, “20/20,” The Discovery Channel, TSN, CBC and CTV.
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THE OUTDOOR ISSUE
IN OUR NEXT ISSUE
There’s a nip in the air and the leaves are changing colour. It’s time to say goodbye to the garden and the outdoor spaces you’ve inhabited all summer as you make way for cool weather ahead. As your attention turns inward to the interiors of your home, we invite you to read the Autumn issue of Toronto Home. It’s packed with stories and information designed to help you create the kind of home you’ve always dreamed of.
BUYER’S GUIDE TORONTO OUTDOORS 2017
WHERE EARTH MEETS SKY Artist Irma Soltonovich www.soltonovich.com GETTING THOSE ZZZs IN CUSHY COMFORT Polysleep www.polysleep.com 1-844-869-7659 NIGHT LIGHT Litemode www.litemode.ca 905-738-8889 THE NEXT GENERATION OF DECKS Royal Decks www.royaldecks.ca 905-901-3560 THE BEAUTY OF PIANOS Tom Lee Music www.tomleemusic.ca Markham ~ 905-940-5397 Mississauga ~ 905-822-9000 EXACTLY WHAT THEY WANTED Toronto Custom Concepts www.torontocustomconcepts.com 416-806-2232 FARM-FRESH FOOD AT HOME Glenna Partridge Garden Design On www.houzz.com 604-716-4790
Written in Stone 647-545-9561 LOW-MAINTENANCE RENEWAL Artistic Gardens www.artisticgardens.ca 416-488-2174 THE GREAT CANADIAN COOKOUT Urban Bonfire www.urbanbonfire.com 514-932-8227 Genesis Kitchens & Design www.genesiskitchens.ca 604-937-7336 THE ART OF OUTDOOR LIVING deiNERI www.deiNERI.com 514-400-3389 MAKING ROOM OUTDOORS Evelyn Eshun Design www.evelyneshun.com 289-460-3306 ~ 1-888-557-0183 NOT YOUR AVERAGE LITTLE CABIN IN THE WOODS Tremblant Living www.tremblantliving.ca 1-888-932-1131 A LARGE SPACE FULL OF MANY CHOICES Union Lighting & Furnishings www.unionlightingandfurnishings. com 416-652-2200
Plani-Paysage www.planipaysage.com 514-346-2915 ~ 450-838-8686 Artistic Gardens THE RIGHT FIT www.artisticgardens.ca Estee Design Inc. 416-488-2174 www.esteedesign.com 416-827-4220 A RENOVATION FIT FOR ROYALTY The Omni King Edward Hotel www.omnihotels.com/hotels/ toronto-king-edward www.omnihotels.com 416-863-9700
AD LIST
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ACO Systems Allan Rug Allstone Quarry Atlantis Bath Centre Barroso Homes Bloomsbury Binns California Closets Casualife Chateau Window & Door Decorium Dominion Rug Elizabeth Interiors Euro-line European Flooring Feama General Products Outdoor Furniture Georgian Custom Renovations Hide House Import Temptations Kawartha Rock Quarry Knar Linen Chest Litemode Mark Lash Omega Mantels Papro Consulting Peak Benefit Solutions Portes Alain Bourassa Rock Cliff Royal Decks Royal Lighting Simply Closets Sutcliffe Kitchens Tom Lee Music Tremblant Living Trutone Unilock Union Lighting Weaver’s Art Yorkville Design
AN OUTDOOR SPACE FOR FAMILY FUN Casualife Outdoor Living www.casualife.ca Markham ~ 905-475-8353 Mississauga ~ 905-990-5433
THE OUTDOORS ISSUE
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YOUR CUSTOM HOME, YOUR WAY. At Georgian, we’re committed to crafting custom
always envisioned it. Each phase of the building process
homes that reflect your style. From start to finish,
is carefully considered and meticulously executed,
our team of brilliant designers and craftsmen insist
allowing you to enjoy every moment in the finished
on making your custom home exactly how you’ve
product; your dream home, your family’s best memories.
B O O K YO U R C O M P L I M E N TA RY C O N S U LTAT I O N TO DAY AT G E O R G I A N R E N O . CO M
• OV E R 5 0 Y E A R S O F C R E AT I N G T H E P E R F E C T C U S TO M H O M E . • A L L WO R K B AC K E D BY A F I V E Y E A R E XC LU S I V E WA R R A N T Y.
Put A Little Love In Your Home.