HOME MADE SIMPLE JENNY MARTIN CHEF AT HOME DAN HAYES THE WINE LIST STUART BROWN
at HOME VICTORIA
Feature
HOME
WINDOW TO THE WORLD ON KING GEORGE TERR ACE
2015
D E S I G N
TRENDS LOCAL LOOKBOOK
tables you’ll love!
FEBRUARY|MARCH 2015
ATHOMEVICTORIA.COM
features
INTERIOR by: design
p.34
A fashion savvy homeowner’s happen chance meeting with a memorable dog named Tibby leads to an interior design firm with big ideas on how to transform an outdated condo into a contemporary work of art.
PREMIERE ISSUE
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Eager to start the year off right, the first issue of atHOME Victoria is all about great design - at home, in the kitchen and in everyday living. Inside we look at custom interior design, local art, weekend D.I.Y, home décor and 2015 furniture trends, as well as uncover our first architectural wonder.
COVER STORY
p.16
FEATURE HOME: When the redesign project of a vintage waterfront residence becomes more about what’s outside the home’s four walls, something magnificent happens inside.
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contents
4
CONTRIBUTORS
6
EDITOR’S MESSAGE
8
RIGHT AT HOME
12
EDITOR’S PICKS
14
FEATURE HOME
16
PLAYFUL DÉCOR
32
INTERIOR BY: DESIGN
34
THE WINE LIST
42
LOCAL LOOKBOOK
44
CELEBRITY AT HOME
46
COLOUR YOUR WORLD
48
TREND REPORT
54
GADGETS & OTHER GOOD STUFF
56
BORROWED TIME
60
DESIGN WITH JENNY MARTIN
62
ENTERTAIN WITH DOROTHY
64
WEEKEND D.I.Y
66
CLOSE TO HOME TRAVEL
68
DINE
70
ARCHITECTURAL WONDERS
72
WINTER 2015
CHEF AT HOME
28
AHV’s resident chef Dan Hayes prepares fresh pappardelle pasta with roasted butternut squash, chestnut and chili sauce in the traditional Italian way. by: Dan Hayes
LOCAL ART
50
Victoria artist Guthrie Gloag looks at driftwood and other found objects in a whole new way, and his sculptures tell a subtle West Coast tale. by: Emily Dobby
LIVING LARGE
58
When 580 square feet is all you have to live in, functional storage is at a premium. It pays to look for design details in unexpected places. by: Glen Peloso
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contributors JENNY MARTIN DESIGN As one of Vancouver Island’s premier interior designers, Jenny Martin is a name synonymous for creating timeless interiors and functional spaces. She now runs and manages her own firm, Jenny Martin Design.
DESIGN WITH JENNY MARTIN
p.62
STUART BROWN WINE Stuart is a Victoria-based certified Sommelier. Formerly the Sommelier at Bear Mountain Resort, Stuart now represents the Wines of People, Place and Time with The Trialto Wine Group, and is an instructor for the International Sommelier Guild on Vancouver Island.
THE WINE LIST
EMILY DOBBY ART Emily is an art professional and librarian with experience working in museums and commercial galleries across the country. Hailing from Montreal, Emily first fell in love with Victoria while completing a History in Art Master’s degree at UVic, and is now a loyal transplant.
THE ARTFUL HOME
p.42
p.50
DOROTHY HAWES HOSTESS Dorothy grew up in a family of 12 and has been used to large gatherings since she took her first step. In addition to her busy life as a teacher at SMU and a mother of three, Dorothy is passionate about entertaining in her home.
ENTERTAIN WITH DOROTHY
p.64
DAN HAYES CHEF Owner of Victoria’s popular The London Chef, Dan has taught cookery all over the UK. From fishing, hunting and gathering to final presentation, this London Chef combines his classical French training and love of rustic Mediterranean cuisine and seafood cookery to create memorable and outstanding dishes, events and cookery lessons.
CHEF AT HOME
p.28 AH
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INTRODUCING
K I T C H E N BRUCEWILKIN.COM NICHEKITCHEN.COM 250 507 6491
HOME
is where one starts from. - T.S. Eliot
… and so this is where we begin, with our premiere issue of atHOME Victoria.
A
fter several years of publishing our popular NICHE magazine, which is now for sale on newsstands province-wide, we felt it was time to launch a second publication, one especially for our hometown of Victoria. For me, this new venture takes me back to my publishing roots in the home and interior design industries. Our team has been busy these past many months, putting together an exceptional reader experience for you within the pages of atHOME Victoria. Published six times a year and distributed free of charge throughout the greater Victoria region, I’m certain AHV will become your go-to source for everything home related.
I’m excited to share that we have formed great partnerships for 2015 and some of your favourite local personalities will have exclusive columns in atHOME Victoria magazine. Sought after veteran interior designer Jenny Martin will help us solve common décor and design problems [Design with Jenny Martin, page 62]. Celebrity chef Dan Hayes, owner of Victoria’s popular The London Chef, has a year of delicious culinary adventures planned as he teaches readers how to create amazing dishes at home [Chef at Home, page 28]. Of course, it wouldn’t be much of a home magazine without houses, and we have some spectacular ones to show you, including a feature home and a featured interior in every issue!
In this premiere issue, our feature home is a modern art masterpiece, transformed from a dark 1940s cottage [Feature Home, page 16]. In addition, we have a special interior design remodel by Bespoke Design that takes colour, texture and pattern to exciting places [INTERIOR by: design, page 34]. We haven’t forgotten about all those important things you put into your house to make it a home. Art aficionado Emily Dobby interviews exceptional local artists, starting with emerging sculptor Guthrie Gloag [Art at Home, page 50], and Victoria’s favourite hostess, Dorothy Hawes shows us tricks for easy entertaining at home [Entertain with Dorothy, page 64]. This is for you—a local magazine for those that love amazing home décor and space styling, interior design, renovation, D.I.Y and real estate in and around Victoria. Thank you for spending time with us, browsing through the pages of atHOME Victoria. I promise it will be time well spent. It’s good to be home,
Tracey Drake, EDITOR IN CHIEF editor@atHOMEvictoria.com AH
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LUNCHTIME QUICKIE? HERE’S A SHOP PROVOKING IDEA… Satisfy your craving for something totally of-the-moment with a lunchtime visit at The Bay Centre – from a buttery leather bag, to statement jewelry, to a power suit. Go ahead, you know you deserve it!
B C B G M A X A Z R IA
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C LU B M O NA C O
H U D S O N ’ S B AY
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DY NA M I T E
M E L A N I E LY N E
•
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GUESS?
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S M A RT S E T
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AEROSOLES
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CALL IT SPRING
L E C HAT E AU
the art of
DON BASTIAN
at HOME VICTORIA
PUBLISHER GLOSSY MEDIA EDITOR IN CHIEF | CREATIVE DIRECTOR TRACEY DRAKE SALES & CIRCULATION DIRECTOR STEVE DRAKE MAGAZINE DESIGNER GREG SZABO PRODUCTION GRACIE ANDOQUE STEVE DRAKE JOSIE SALDAT EDITORIAL STUART BROWN ELIZABETH DEAN EMILY DOBBY TRACEY DRAKE CHELSEA FORMAN DOROTHY HAWES DAN HAYES STEPHANIE LEWIS JENNY MARTIN GLEN PELOSO CREATIVE | PHOTOGRAPHY DAVE AHARONIAN ROBERT BAGANZ ADRIAN DORST DEREK FORD ANTONIO LA FAUCI HEATH MOFFATT PLATINUMHD VICTORIA CHRIS POUGET REBECCA WELLMAN ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES 250.595.7870 | sales@atHOMEvictoria.com | atHOMEvictoria.com
Art is no longer just for the walls. donbastian.com
250.514.5030
Published by: Glossy Media All rights reserved. No part of atHOME Victoria magazine may be copied, reprinted or reproduced in any form without prior written consent. For permission requests, call Glossy Media at 250-595-7870 atHOME Victoria magazine is proud to be Canadian - produced in Canada by Glossy Media Canada Post Publication Agreement #42520516 © COPYRIGHT atHOME VICTORIA MAGAZINE | GLOSSY MEDIA 2014-2015
another quality project by Bayshore Construction
$479,000
This 3 bedroom open concept home features a bright open layout with various designer details. A low maintenance exterior is complimented with natural finishing accents, posts & beam at the covered entry, heavy trims and an abundance of windows for natural light. The home includes a fully landscaped and irrigated yard with a large concrete patio, walks and driveway. The quality your would expect in a Bayshore home includes high end
finishes including hardwood flooring, custom maple cabinetry, granite countertops, under-mount sinks and more. Standout features include a large island kitchen with a full walkin butler’s pantry and a 5 piece ensuite with heated tile flooring with direct access to large walk-in closet. This “Powersmart” home that includes a Carrier heat pump, air conditioning, natural gas fireplace, and hot water on demand to keep costs low and comfort high.
(250) 248-6722 bayshoreconstruction@shaw.ca bayshoreconstruction.ca
rightat HOME T
his local photograph, titled Keeping Watch, was taken in downtown Victoria, early evening on September 14th, 2014.
KEEPING WATCH “This little guy was just sitting in the doorway of this shop in Chinatown doing some people watching of his own. I knelt down, got his attention, then snapped a couple pictures.” - Robert Baganz, photographer
PHOTOGRAPHER: ROBERT BAGANZ
AH
WHERE WAS THIS PHOTO TAKEN?
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Tell us where it is (enter on our website at www.athomevictoria.com), and one lucky winner will receive a framed print of this photograph.
atHOME Victoria
editor’s PICKS CREATURE COMFORTS VICTORIA CREAMS Special edition 4-piece Victoria Cream window tin— chocolate, vanilla, raspberry and maple. 180 grams. Rogers Chocolates, $13.99
BIKE TUMBLER Charming handmade pottery drinking cup by Faro Sullivan of Dirty Girl Clayworks in Victoria. 4.5” tall. Oven, microwave and dishwasher proof. Side Street Studio, $25
GOVERNMENT STREET BLEND TEA A delicious medium strength green-black blended tea that contains Ceylon, Darjeeling, Keemun, Jasmine, and a delightful Bergamot finish. One of Murchie’s specialty blends for more than 100 years. 25 tea bag box. Murchie’s, $8.95
EMINENCE ORGANIC SUN DEFENSE
CHAS TAPESTRY ARMCHAIR Ultra comfy overstuffed armchair looks like it belongs in an Oak Bay manor house. Tufted upholstery, carved legs and nailhead trim detail. Pier 1 Imports, $499.95
Hypoallergenic, organic natural coverage provides water resistant SPF 30 sun protection. Perfect to take on your tropical getaway. Shown in #1 Honey Apple. The Spa at Delta Victoria Ocean Pointe Resort, $65
MOHAIR THROW BLANKET Hand woven for the ultimate in softness, luxury and quality, in the west of Ireland. 54”x 72” in a vibrant turquoise plaid. Out of Ireland, $169
AH
THIS IS THE SEASON for staying close to home; the perfect time for brisk walks, hot drinks and cozy afternoons curled up in front of the fire.
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FEATURE home
DO MORZA
DESIGN FIRM: BRUCE WILKIN DESIGN PHOTOGRAPHERS: PLATINUMHD VICTORIA & HEATH MOFFATT PHOTOGRAPHY
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BY: TRACEY DRAKE
A
s I stood across the street by the steep ocean`s edge on King George Terrace, looking up at this beautiful structure, I knew before I even stepped inside that this house was going to be something very special. Paul Pallan and Elka Nowicka have owned the house since 2008, and purchased it with the express intention of renovating what was once a quaint Oak Bay cottage into what it is today – a modern day window to the world. Elka took the lead on the redesign project and hired Bruce Wilkin of Bruce Wilkin Design to help realize her vision.
atHOME Victoria
FEATURE home
T
he house was originally built in the 1940s and had been previously renovated in 1990 by local architect and urban pioneer Pamela Charlesworth. Sitting grandly on King George Terrace, the current size of this home is 4,200 square feet, spread out over three levels. Designed by Bruce Wilkin, he describes the style of the new home as minimal/modern; the exterior is crisp white acrylic stucco and glass. I asked Bruce how the location of the home influenced the style decision. “Along the stretch of King George Terrace there are two really good examples of the Moderne style - I think this house becomes the third white house. Also, there is a great sampling of modernism in the area, particularly on Barclay Terrace, and Dennison Road.” Paul and Elka’s home fits perfectly into its surrounding neighbourhood.
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FEATURE home PROPERTY: 14,000 SQUARE FEET
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Dornbracht MEM - Cyprum finish
Culturing Life
T
he lot sits high on top of a rocky hill with ocean and mountain views on three sides. A corner lot with a private back drive, the garden is fully landscaped with drip irrigation by Graeme’s Irrigation and low maintenance plantings. In addition to an entrance patio and private back garden, there are also two spectacular upper decks for watching the sun rise.
“I am very peripatetic when it comes to design—I like to be flexible and not be locked into a style.” - Bruce Wilkin Upon entering the house, you are met with a foyer filled with vibrant artwork and unique furniture, and a wonderful light filled art studio immediately to the left. From the front door, you can see into the wide open spaces of the main floor and the art influence is everywhere. Mistakenly I assumed the home was designed in large part for the art collection. Paul corrected me. “Not at all. We were only concerned with taking advantage of the 270 degree views.” The end result is breathtaking, with floor-to-ceiling windows that span eighteen feet high in the living room, keeping watch over Harling Point and the sea below.
1 – 477 Boleskine Road, Victoria T 250-598-2966 - T/F 1-888-274-6779 www.vshl.ca
FEATURE home MAIN LEVEL: 2,400 SQUARE FEET
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T
he main floor really has personality; it is a mix of old and new, traditional and modern, conservative and eclectic. The original wing of the house, which was left largely untouched except for upgrades and dĂŠcor includes a five piece bathroom, two piece powder room, laundry room, guest bedroom and twelve feet of built in closets.
The reimagined part of the main floor includes living, dining, kitchen and media areas. As I walked around the space, each step gave me a new perspective. The mindful layout that Bruce, Elka and Paul carved out for this home is brilliant. The triple stacked window blocks, which are a Bruce Wilkin signature, create so much light but also add an element of interest
that keeps the space from feeling cold or looking too austere. The triple block pattern is repeated artistically in the staircase. The expansive living room is south/west facing and features a large gas fireplace with Vancouver Island marble front that anchors the space. The dining room separates the living room from the kitchen; a custom floating buffet cabinet adding visual interest. The modern chandelier over the dining table was handpicked for Elka by Bob and Wendy MacRitchie, owners of Illuminations Lighting. To my mind, it is a little bit of wonderful metallic chaos in the midst of so much artistic splendour. A lot of the furnishings in the home came along with Paul and Elka from their previous home in Rockland. Clearly their design aesthetic is consistent, as everything looks right at home here on King George Terrace.
L O C A L LY H A N D C R A F T E D D E S I G N E R K I T C H E N S
FEATURE home
T
he kitchen is a masterclass in restrained elegance; modern but with just enough quirky charm. The kitchen windows look towards Trial Island to the east and Mount Baker to the north. The showstopper in this space is the Jason Good custom cabinetry in white and rosewood with stainless steel and red accents. Truly a chef’s wonderland, Paul and Elka’s kitchen features a 36-inch professional Blue Star range in Ferrari red with oversized oven. One of my favourite details of this kitchen was the Lego art treatment on the range hood, created by Elka. To
“It was always about the views. The second floor addition is a viewing chamber to look out from – like being inside a camera.” - Bruce Wilkin
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preserve the home’s modern aesthetic, high end Bosch and Jenn-Aire appliances are panelled to match the cabinetry. The unpolished black granite island (with under counter bar sink and wine fridge) is long and lean, leading the eye naturally into the comfortable media room with gas fireplace.
Bridging old and new is oak flooring from The Finishing Store that perfectly matches the original salvaged wood floors, and the open plan hallway and gallery feature wall that were the home’s original snug back in the 1940s.
UPPER LEVEL: 900 SQUARE FEET The second floor is loft style, open to the main level below and includes the master bedroom with private viewing deck, two walk-in closets and a sumptuous master bathroom with Schonbek chandelier. This level also has the only addition to the house, Paul’s open plan office with million dollar water views from the cantilevered indoor “cube view” balcony. The mood outside the windows seemed to change by the minute during our visit – it draws you in - and I can see that from this vantage point, it may be really hard to get any work done.
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LOWER LEVEL: 600 SQUARE FEET The main build took about ten months, six of which Paul and Elka moved out. The lower level of the house was not renovated until another year later. Now finished, the cozy guest suite is charming and streaming with natural light. Aside from a guest bedroom and bathroom, there is also an insulated wine cellar and private entrance to the garden.
Complete design Lifetime warranties Increased property value Increases safety & security Installation & maintenance Huge selection of fixtures and finishes
Landscape Lighting 250-294-9787
graemesirrigation.ca | graemesirrigation@shaw.ca 4366 Interurban Rd. Victoria facebook.com/GraemesIrrigation
Locally owned and operated
FEATURE home ABOUT THE DESIGNER Bruce Wilkin is an award winning designer and builder with a deep appreciation of a broad range of design styles. He possesses an uncanny ability to capture the essence of a particular style and create a setting that expresses it fully. Bruce and business partner Ann Hillyer operate Bruce Wilkin Design creating architectural designs, buildings and renovations that emphasize authenticity, quality and durability. Bruce Wilkin Design | 250.598.0355 | brucewilkin.ca
A HOME FILLED WITH ARTISTIC POINTS OF VIEW
A
lthough Mother Nature provides the ever changing landscape art beyond the massive glass windows, she is not the only artist in residence here. Homeowner Elka Nowicka is a gifted artist and her work is featured prominently in the home. Other artists that grace the walls include Pat Martin Bates, Flemming Jorgensen, Jimmy Wright, Grant Lier, Nixy Barton, Phyllis Serota, Miles Lowry, Bill Porteous, Roy Vickers, Eliza Hawkins, Ken Q Li, Wendy Skog, George Tiessen, Deryk Houston, Birgit Piskor, and a variety of Polish art and sculptures that celebrate Elka`s heritage. West End Gallery carries Elka’s work locally. I chose the article title Do Morza because it means “to the sea” in Polish. Appropriate, I thought.
AH
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CHEF AT HOME
LOCATION: THE LONDON CHEF (EXCLUSIVELY FOR atHOME VICTORIA) PHOTOGRAPHER: REBECCA WELLMAN
FRESH
PAPPARDELLE PASTA WITH
BUTTERNUT SQUASH, SAGE, CHESTNUT & CHILI SAUCE BY: DAN HAYES | THE LONDON CHEF
O
riginating from Italy’s central region of Tuscany, pappardelle pasta is a wide, flat Italian pasta that resembles delectable ribbons. The name pappardelle comes from the Italian word pappare, which means “gobble up”. For this issue of atHOME Victoria, the recipe was created and prepared in the traditional Italian way, using fresh made pappardelle pasta and a hearty sauce made from delicious seasonal ingredients. Let’s get cooking… shall we?
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FRESH PASTA INGREDIENTS: • • • • •
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour ¼ cup semolina flour 2 eggs 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon olive oil
METHOD:
Place flour in a pile in the centre of a large cutting board or counter top. Make a well in the middle and crack the eggs into the well, adding the olive oil and salt. Mix together with a fork, slowing incorporating the flour from all sides.
METHOD: When it becomes pasty, you can start using your hands to bring it together like dough. If the dough is sticking, add extra flour and if the dough is too stiff, add extra water. There is no secret to kneading dough, use the heel of your palm and some elbow grease to knead the dough. You will know when to stop—it’s when your dough begins to feel silky and smooth instead of rough and floury— will take 10 to 15 minutes. Place dough in a bowl and let sit covered for 30 to 60 minutes.
Roll out the dough to ½ inch thickness, keeping it as square as possible. Cut dough into three to four inch squares. Set the pasta maker to the highest setting and run the dough through twice. Keep doing this as you lower each setting, getting the dough thinner and thinner. Your final run will be folding it over with lots of flour and cutting it with a knife into pappardelle – approximately one inch wide and as long as you want.
Tip: Store pasta dough in the refrigerator for up to two days in a plastic bag.
METHOD: Cook the fresh pappardelle pasta strips in heavily salted, rapidly boiling water for TWO minutes. Drain pasta but reserve one cup of pasta water.
Add cooked pasta to the frying pan, along with a splash or two of cooking water. Grate in some grano padano and shake the pan to well mix all ingredients.
SAUCE FROM SCRATCH INGREDIENTS: • • • • • • • • • • •
Serve family style with the crispy sage on top and a chunk of grano padano for self-serve grating.
1 large butternut squash 20 large clean sage leaves Pinch crushes chili 3 cloves peeled garlic, sliced 10 crushed chestnuts, roasted and peeled 1 white onion, finely sliced Canola oil Large pinch Vancouver Island sea salt 1 cup reserved pasta cooking water Fresh made pappardelle pasta (recipe above) Grano Padano cheese
METHOD:
Cut the butternut squash in half, season with salt and olive oil and place in the oven to roast until soft, about sixty minutes. Once cooked, remove seeds and skin. In preparation for the pasta you just made, put a large pot of heavily salted water on to boil.
In a large frying pan, sweat onion, garlic and chili flakes in olive oil with a pinch of salt, until soft. Add in the roasted butternut squash and chestnuts. In a small sauce pan, deep fry the sage in canola oil, drain on paper towel and season generously with salt.
Tip: Sage can be done a few hours ahead of time but don’t refrigerate.
“Making your own pasta can feel daunting – perhaps even more so than baking your own bread. In both cases, though, the end product is usually of better quality than anything you can get in the supermarkets. And even if it isn’t quite there at the beginning, the pride you will feel over having made it yourself always makes the whole thing worth it anyway.” -Jamie Oliver
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Spectacular Views from a Tranquil Acreage 4920 Nagle Road $949,000
This stunning modern home was completely redesigned to the highest standards offering sophisticated, contemporary décor in a spectacular natural setting. The principal rooms wrap around a chef ’s dream kitchen ideal for entertaining or relaxing. Exquisite surface materials and expansive windows frame the seemingly endless ocean and mountain views. This 4 BR/4BA home is uncompromising in design detail. Surrounded by nature, this home offers the best in luxury, views and lifestyle!
outstanding service… exceptional results My biggest priority is to help you achieve YOUR goals buying or selling a home in the Victoria area. I take pride in providing exceptional service and support from our initial contact, through the transaction and beyond. I will take the time to understand your specific needs and wants, and work with you to create a plan to achieve your goals. I’ll ensure you have all the information you need to make decisions and handle negotiation and transactional details to make your home purchasing or selling experience successful and positive.
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P: 250-477-1100 C: 250-588-2852
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WANT MORE CHEF DAN? Go to athomevictoria.com for the extended version of this article including exclusive behind-the-scenes video.
tarahearn.com tara@tarahearn.com
HOME fashion
Playful décor S
pring is just around the corner, and a time when the mind wanders to vivid colours, floral patterns and cheerful interior design. This year, turn your bright ideas into playful home décor. You change your wardrobe seasonally. Why not do the same with your home’s interior fashion? It is easy to do and believe it or not, doesn’t need much more commitment than accent pillows, rugs, accents, draperies and perhaps a little paint!
MAINTAIN YOUR INTENSITY Colour intensity is an essential element to achieving harmony in your space. Do not mix pastel colours with rich jewel tones or bright primary colours. It rarely works. Mixing stripes, checks and floral patterns does work— as long as you choose a range of hues that play nicely together.
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FABRICS ARE EASY AS 1-2-3 Fabric 1: The boldest fabric statement in your space should feature the largest scale pattern. Fabric 2: Visually very different from the first fabric choice, and about half the scale. Choose a different pattern (i.e. floral vs. ikat). Fabric 3: The final pattern is a visual bridge between your other pattern choices, echoing the same colour palette but with a distinct personality.
GRILLING is ALWAYS in season at Vista 18 WATCH YOUR WEIGHT As you lay out the room, pay extra special attention to where bright colours or heavy patterns are placed. It is easy to end up with a room that looks lopsided or heavy on one end – and visually, it throws off the balance of your space. Distribute patterned fabrics throughout the room and make sure that strong colours are well balanced within the room.
GO BIG OR GO HOME
Come and try our Winter grill menu
Many homeowners wisely choose a neutral starting point, such as a sofa, and this is often a safe bet for what is often an expensive piece of furniture. Go big in other areas, and make bold pattern and colour choices in your walls and accessories. Down the road, if you find your pattern and colour changes are too much, you can leave the neutral piece and change out the floral pillows, the colourful bookcase paint or the patterned ottoman.
250-382-9258
SPRING, SUMMER AND FALL MAINTENANCE
on’t let the fear of mixing and matching scare you aware from creating your own version of playful décor. AH
funky wall treatments, and the bold use of colour can have a big impact on how your room feels.
VISTA18.COM
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(250) 858-0588 www.mowtime.ca
INTERIOR by: design
D
BY: TRACEY DRAKE
esigner Ben Brannen of Bespoke Design can thank his dog, Tibby for landing this interior design project. The client met the likable pup while he was with a dog sitter, and remembered Tibby when it came time to remodel her residence. The relationship between client and designer began with just the kitchen redesign; a relationship that grew into Ben Brannen and Bryn Taylor (also from Bespoke Design) taking on the entire interior redesign project that included kitchen, living, dining and family rooms, and took three months to complete.
DESIGN FIRM: BESPOKE DESIGN DESIGNERS: BEN BRANNEN & BRYN TAYLOR PHOTOGRAPHER: DEREK FORD
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atHOME Victoria
INTERIOR by: design
H
omeowner Patti Gray knew exactly what she wanted; a home with a definitive modern aesthetic. Ben Brannen set about giving her a space that was better than what she envisioned. “She had a talent for pulling together killer fashion and I wanted her home to convey that.”
As condos generally are, buildings are concrete and lack imagination when it comes to architectural styling. Often times, especially true in older buildings, apartment may be spacious but rooms are small and segregated. Even though this condominium has lovely water views, its 1980s sensibility meant that the kitchen, dining, living and den areas were all separate, making the space feel much smaller than its 2,000 square feet— and the original pink wall-to-wall carpeting didn’t help either.
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The concrete floors, found beneath the old carpet, were refinished to resemble terrazzo flooring
Tasteful roller blinds and full lite doors with diffused glass panels maximize light and privacy
Call Leslee Farrell at 250.388.5882 for assistance with your local and global real estate needs.
World Class Oceanfront Estate
South Oak Bay Magical Ocean Front
Extraordinary Shoal Point Penthouse
Situated in one of Oak Bay’s most prestigious locations, this elegant English Manor sits on a rare parcel of 2.3 acres of waterfront, with private beach & water access. Sweeping views of Mt. Baker and the Gulf Islands are afforded from almost every room. The restored manor offers the finest of old world charm with modern amenities. The flowing floor plan is ideal for indoor/ outdoor living, opening to waterside patios overlooking the beautifully landscaped gardens w/ feature waterfall. The home resonates with a classic beauty enhanced by rich oak panelling, leaded glass, feature gourmet kitchen & grand dining room with wine cellar. The size of this property makes it a brilliant hold for the future.
Known as High View, this most elegant waterfront estate is situated steps from the Victoria Golf Club and enjoys world class ocean views! The 1.24 acre garden has terraced lawns and completely private ocean side pool & patio. This magnificent home has been restored to the highest standard since its inception in 1932. The fabulous design is ideal for family & entertaining with grand formal dining & living rooms, a superb gourmet kitchen with fireplace, large eating area & adj. family room. The rich panelled den emulates a bygone era with feature stained glass door. On the upper floor the grand master suite is an ideal retreat with a spacious ensuite plus tub with ocean view!
Situated in prestigious Shoal point, a stunning architectural building situated in the prime location of Victoria’s outer Harbour. This luxurious penthouse offers over 3000 sf. and has been recently redecorated & upgraded with Brazilian Mahogany hardwood flooring, and one touch sound system throughout. The spacious open plan is ideal for entertaining with a generous new gourmet kitchen opening to a full length harbourside deck. The master suite is on the upper level, with generous 2nd ensuite bedroom on the main. Enjoy the amazing harbour views! An ideal lifestyle choice with concierge, guest suites, pool, fitness & 24 hour security.
$6,899,000
$5,380,000 MLS #343993
$2,750,000
MLS #342920
Macdonald Realty Ltd. 755 Humboldt St. Victoria, BC, Canada V8W 1B1
MLS #344428
Toll Free: 1-877-388-5882 250.388.5882 leslee@lesleefarrell.com www.lesleefarrell.com
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his two-bedroom, two-bathroom condo is on the main floor overtop of the garage, so no major structural changes could be made, even though Brannen would have loved to remove the pillar in the kitchen. However, walls were removed to create an open floor plan and add instant light and modernity to the space. The ceilings in the kitchen and dining areas were also raised to create more interest and a sense of spaciousness. Bespoke designers worked in collaboration with David Young Contracting, who led the project and kept it moving forward, on time and on budget.
The home’s location is quite private with windows in all the main rooms; each with desirable water views. The redesign was planned, especially the walk-around kitchen island, to take full advantage of the views. Brennan enlisted the talents of Tri City Finishing to scrape the dated popcorn ceilings, smooth all the surfaces, then paint and wallpaper the entire home. Using four shades of Farrow and Ball gray paint, the walls are now a subtle yet elegant backdrop for the wonderful fabrics, furniture silhouettes and feast of textures in this vibrant space. Brannen is happy with the end result. “My favourite thing about this condo was that it was a complete reinvention. It went from traditional and cramped to modern and open.� The immovable pillar was transformed into a design feature of the kitchen island
Playful fabrics, inspiring wallpaper and pops of colour curated by Bespoke Design
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“One of the simplest things I enjoy doing is changing a colour scheme because it is such a simple way to make a dramatic change� - Ben Brannen, Bespoke Design
Custom cabinetry by Golden Kitchen Cabinets, tilework from Cut Edge Flooring and light fixtures from Mclaren Lighting
atHOME Victoria
INTERIOR by: design
QA &
with: BEN BRANNEN ABOUT THE DESIGNER Ben Brannen, owner of Bespoke Design, believes that design should reflect personality and relies heavily on listening to client needs and brings options to a design that allows for personal choice. At any given time, the team at Bespoke, a Victoria based design and home furnishing retailer, is working on several renovations and decorating projects at various stages of completion. Bespoke Design | 1844 Oak Bay Avenue | 250.298.1105 | bespokedesign.ca
AHV: What aspects of this redesigned home are you particularly proud of?
BB: I think my pride comes from switching the use of the rooms and opening them up to each other. After interviewing the clients, it was clear they were casual entertainers so I gave the smallest, oddly shaped room the duty of hosting the dining table. Now it offers a nice sightline between the living and family rooms, but does not take up a tremendous amount of space. It replaced what would have been a small den that the clients could not imagine using at all. We tucked the office into an organized space about the size of a walk in closet.
was more contemporary than I was used to working with. One of my minimum standards is always to create rooms that people feel comfortable and warm in. Even with concrete floors and minimal decor, I feel this home is stylish and warm. AHV: Your favourite designer DIY creation?
BB: The fireplace was a creative, rustic one-of-a-kind feature that came together because Patti trusted me to try something different. I used the four shades of gray that we used as paint in the home, created stains by diluting them with water and alternated the stain colour on each board, which we dry fit first and then laid out on the floor to stain before nailing them up. I love the result!
AHV: How did your design philosophy influence this project?
BB: I always try to approach interior design with the concept that the client’s tastes and design style should come out 90% and I have a 10% influence over an arbitrary angle to the design concept. In the past, most of my clients have had more conservative, traditional design concentrations, so this project was an opportunity to see if I was able to apply my principal to a homeowner whose design style AH
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Conversations with Lucie Rie Curated by Toby Lawrence | Drury Gallery Art Gallery of Greater Victoria | Oct 17, 2014 to Mar 9, 2015 Lucie Rie is renowned for her modernist aesthetic and functional sensibilities. The prolific studio output of the Austrian-born British potter spanned seven decades–a significant contribution to the history of ceramics in the 20th century. With works drawn primarily from the collection of the AGGV, Conversations with Lucie Rie considers the development of Rie’s work and the impact she had on her contemporaries and subsequent generations of ceramic and non-ceramic based artists, curators, collectors, and admirers. This exhibition includes works by Lucie Rie, Hans Coper, Bernard Leach, and Stephen Andrews, in addition to a recent performancebased work by British artist Keith Harrison.
AGGV When it first opened in 1951, the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria exhibited art in the historic 1889 mansion that is now adjacent to its seven modern galleries. With almost 18,000 works of art, the Art Gallery has the largest public collection in BC and is a vibrant and active part of Victoria’s artist community.
THE WINE LIST BY: STUART BROWN | WINE EXPERT
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hile growing up in the Lower Mainland of British Columbia, I had only a sliver of an idea of what an amazing area of the world I was living in. I naively thought that every other place on this planet was blessed with fresh air, beautifully clean oceans and surrounded by exciting mountain terrain and vast valleys of lush, fertile land. My surroundings became more pronounced and the beauty more evident as I grew older, moved to the Pemberton Valley and later to Victoria.
When I arrived in Victoria, about 12 years ago, I was completely unaware of the bounty of natural richness Vancouver Island possesses. My studies of wine and food took a quantum leap forward as I explored agriculture, sea life and local products created by local producers. Then I saw the wineries. Who knew there were wineries here?
My first lesson was that Vancouver Island wine tastes like Vancouver Island wine. It doesn’t taste like Napa, or Argentina, or Bordeaux wines because it is made with Vancouver Island fruit. And what wonderful fruit we have on the Island! Yes, it is easier to grow and ripen fruit in other locations, like the Okanagan Valley, but the fruit we do ripen and the flavours they
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express are fantastic. The wine we make from this lovely fruit, pairs so well with the cuisine that is locally sourced and served. A foodie’s heaven on earth!
One of my favourite wineries on Vancouver Island is Averill Creek. A family run, 40+ acre estate winery on the side of Mount
Prevost in the beautiful Cowichan Valley that has consistently made excellent, terroir driven wines. This is the project of Andy and Wendy Johnston, and their team of winery and vineyard professionals that have worked gently with the land since 2001. While continuing to improve every vintage, they ripen some fabulous fruit and make world class wines that truly express Appellation Vancouver Island.
When you (and maybe a group of friends) visit this gravity flow, Vasco Pavlov designed winery, make sure you visit the tasting room and bring a picnic to enjoy on the garden patio. The views are endless and you might feel like you are in Europe!
A LES
Here are some of the wines I would suggest from Averill Creek
WIN ES
AVE R I L L C R E E K SUG GESTED WINES CHARM DE L’ILE: Sparkling and fresh
GEWÜRZTRAMINER: Dry, zesty and fragrant
PINOT GRIGIO: Floral and youthful
PINOT GRIS: Complex and full
SPIR IT S
PINOT NOIR: Classic and elegant
FOCH CAB RESERVE: Rich like Bordeaux
COWICHAN TAWNY: Sweet and luxurious
EXPERT ADVICE TO HELP YOU MAKE THE PERFECT CHOICE 919 douglas street 250.370.9463
lrs@strathconahotel.com
local
LOOKBOOK
TERRA DRINKS CABINET
JOSEF ALBERS NESTING TABLES
Perfect for a classy condo, a compact bar with removable tray and 8-bottle wine rack, shown in driftwood.
Classic solid oak frames with pops of coloured glass perfectly marry classic forms with modern design.
Parc Modern Interiors, $1746
Gabriel Ross, $2100
JAVA COFFEE TABLE
GILES TRAY TABLE
The perfect West Coast statement piece, handcrafted from driftwood, stainless steel and glass. Shiny aluminum marries traditional functionality for a modern take on afternoon tea.
Monarch Furnishings, $2399
EQ3 SCOUT COFFEE TABLE
In walnut and stainless steel, this functional table lifts and stores, going from coffee to dining table. Hudson’s Bay, $799
Urban Barn, $229 AH
THE RIGHT TABLE has the power to pull a room together, adding the perfect element of design and much needed functionality. Our favourite five tables, available in local stores right now.
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indie and couture
BRIDAL BOUTIQUE thewhitepeony.com
1816 GOVERNMENT ST. VICTORIA, BC
250.590.8044
CELEBRITY AT HOME The house that ‘FRIENDS’ built
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MATTHEW PERRY’S PIER HOUSE
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decade after the end of the long running television sitcom Friends, Chandler Bing—aka Matthew Perry—is clearly still reaping its rewards, if his Malibu beachfront house is any indication.
The Pier House, named for its 2.5 acre hillside location overlooking the Malibu Pier, was built in 1981 and is a sprawling 5,500 square feet, featuring four bedrooms and six bathrooms. Valued at an estimated $12.5 Million, the home’s architecture is sleek, minimal and the interior was designed to show off the building’s unique attributes and maximize stellar views.
AH
CANADIAN ROOTS Matthew Perry’s mother, Suzanne Perry, was a Canadian journalist who also served as Press Secretary for Canadian Prime Minister, Pierre Elliot Trudeau. Perry holds dual American and Canadian citizenship, and was raised by his mother in Ottawa, Ontario. atHOME Victoria
COLOUR YOUR I f you’re short on square feet, be thoughtful with your design choices, and steer clear of beige and white as a main colour palette. In a condo or apartment, white or builder beige walls add up to a whole lot of boring. Instead, try a beautiful shade of red paint, and then punctuate the room with crisp white furniture and carefully chosen accessories; it will feel inventive and instantly bring a small space to life.
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WORLD WHEN RED IS RIGHT
BY: ELIZABETH DEAN
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efore you decide on a red, think about your lifestyle and your decorating style. There are literally thousands of shades to choose from, and your own decorating style will almost always lead you in the right direction.
RED HAS MANY MOODS AND PERSONALITIES. DEPENDING ON THE SHADE OF RED YOU CHOOSE, IT CAN BE:
1. WARM & WELCOMING Creates a space that feels cozy and inviting. Example: Bijou Red UL110-16 (Behr/Home Depot)
2. ELEGANT & SOPHISTICATED
If your home is modern, you can play with all kinds of reds, from classic shades to bright contemporary reds. If your decorating style is traditional, stick to reds that have burgundy or black tones, and stay away from the colder, bright red colours. Of course, if you love country décor, look for barn or scarlet red, and choose a softer paint finish, like chalk paint.
Makes a small condo appear grander and more spacious. Example: Positive Red SW6871 (Sherwin Williams)
3. DARING & BOLD Gives an insight into the personality that lives within the red walls. Example: Real Red 2000-10 (Benjamin Moore)
AH
MY TWO FAVOURITE PLACES IN VICTORIA for recycled painted furniture are The Junction at the intersection of Fort Street and Oak Bay Avenue and Sweet Peas at Home on Fort Street.
OUR MISSION IS TO MOVE YOU, NOT JUST YOUR BOXES. How we’re moving Victoria: “Very professional, careful, and friendly. Made my day soooo much easier, and way less stressful :)” - Jenner Salmon, Victoria
THE ARTFUL HOME
MY INTENTION, OVER THE COURSE OF 2015, IS TO EXPLORE THE LARGE AND SUPREMELY TALENTED POOL OF EMERGING LOCAL ARTISTS WITH THIS atHOME VICTORIA ARTS COLUMN. I HOPE YOU APPRECIATE THE ART WORK AS MUCH AS I DO, AND THAT IT INSPIRES YOU.
GUTHRIE GLOAG:
The Driftwood Poet BY: EMILY DOBBY
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G
uthrie Gloag is an artist and a biologist. Raised in British Columbia, he collects driftwood from various locations around the coast (Savory Island and Quadra are his favourite spots) to incorporate into his expressive, true to life sculptures of animals and humans. He also uses found bone, concrete and steel to capture specific character traits of the forms he creates. The animals that he assembles tend to be native to the northwest coast.
Gloag is an emerging talent, starting his creative process only in 2011, but people are definitely taking notice.
Guthrie’s background as a biologist is noticeable; his intimate knowledge and interpretation of animal anatomy is striking in its accuracy, and yet poetic. Each piece is crafted without a subframe and the pieces of wood remain unaltered—the rough patina of the wood gives his work much of its character. His oeuvre continues to evolve with each piece he embarks on and never fails to render one speechless.
His animals—stalking, graceful predators or regal perched ravens with intricate plumage— literally turn heads. His work is arresting. Every day, people stop in their tracks and stare at his work through the windows of the gallery, until seeing it up close becomes a necessity.
atHOME Victoria
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aking in his work is a visceral experience; the viewer is transported to a rugged, rainy coastline scene - to touch the rough-hewn and sandy wood, to smell the brine, to see how each piece of driftwood fits into the other like an esoteric puzzle (or to try), to feel the cold, bleached white bone that is sometimes delicately inserted into the jaw, to see how the hind legs are weighed down with beach rocks to keep the sculpture properly balanced on the plinth. It’s truly an experience not to be missed.
When I spoke to Guthrie, he described his craft as being process driven. Every step in the process - from combing beaches with his dog or hiking to finding a name for the piece - is part of the experience. The process is what ignites his creativity.
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You may have seen Guthrie’s work at Wolf in the Fog restaurant, a new culinary hotspot in downtown Tofino that was just named EnRoute’s Best New Restaurant in Canada for 2014. Guthrie’s Salmon Wolf sculpture greets you at the entrance to this warm and intimate space. The menu and the decor pay homage to the lush natural surroundings and features vary creative and include inspired ocean-to-table and forest-to-table dishes. Guthrie’s work can be found in Madrona Gallery in downtown Victoria, where it first appeared in a special exhibition in July 2012 when Guthrie joined Madrona’s stable of artists. His work has also been exhibited in a number of group shows, namely Colours of Summer (2012-2014) and Deck the Walls (2014). At the end of our conversation, Guthrie told me that I should try working with driftwood. I just might…
AH
GUTHRIE GLOAG’S WORK can be found in various locations around Vancouver Island and also in the Mountain Galleries at Fairmont Hotels.
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2015 FURNITURE TRENDS REPORT
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A NEW YEAR MEANS A NEW START, AND FURNITURE TRENDS FOR 2015 ARE ALL ABOUT NEW! IF YOU HAVE BEEN WAITING TO REDECORATE YOUR HOME, YOU PICKED AN EXCELLENT YEAR.
MAD MEN MODERN We’re familiar with vintage midcentury modern furniture that came back into vogue in a big way, largely thanks to Mad Men. For 2015, watch for furniture styles to continue to honour the past, while moving forward with interesting new silhouettes and shapes. Other trending styles to watch for are vintageinspired furniture pieces that do double-duty as storage and seating.
3.
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2.
ORANGE OVERTONES The various spectrums of the orange colour wheel continue to be strong colour trends for furniture and accessories in 2015. Watch for deep coral, rich salmon and burnt orange tones in paint stores, furniture showrooms and home accent shops. Other trending colours for 2015 include Marsala (Pantone colour of the year) and varying saturations of deep blue.
MAGNIFICENT METALS The use of metallic elements in modern interior design is certainly nothing new, but for 2015 it is being used more frequently and in exciting new ways. Watch for coffee tables, lighting, and table accessories in antique gold, burnished bronze, and polished silver metals. Other trending metallic including shimmery shag rugs and metallic cushions.
now that the decorating is done… it’s time for a manicure!
4.
NATURAL ELEMENTS On the West Coast, we love touches of nature in home décor, and in Victoria at least, this year will be no different. For 2015, watch for new riffs on old favourites especially occasional tables, bar stools and kitchen islands. Other trends to watch for include lighter woods that give a space an open and airy feel, and the modern mix of warm woods and high polished metals.
1014 Broad Street 250-380-6533 book online - decodemode.com
gadgets & other GOOD
STUFF
KITCHEN TIME MADE EASIER – AND MORE DELICIOUS!
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1. THE ORIGINAL WHIRLEY POP STOVETOP POPCORN POPPER Pop six quarts of theatre-style popcorn with as little as a teaspoon of oil in just three minutes on your stovetop. The durable aluminum pan serves the entire family, making twice as much popcorn as a bag of microwave popcorn. Bed, Bath & Beyond, $26.99
2. KITCHENAID CHEF’S CHOPPER Big on quality and small on space, this 3.5 cup chopper makes single serving sizes. Chopping fresh vegetables and pureeing dressings and sauces just got a whole lot more fun. Compact and convenient for everyday use in the kitchen with stainless steel blade. Home Outfitters, $69.99
3. VANCOUVER ISLAND BALSAMIC INFUSED SEA SALT All natural and unrefined, this one of a kind Canadian sea salt is hand harvested from the cold, Pacific waters of Vancouver Island. Each box packaged by hand. Cook Culture, $4.95
4. WMF MCEGG EGG CUP WITH SPOON The McEgg cup makes breakfast fun and colourful! Recommended for children 3+, this sturdy little guy holds the egg under his cap! Break the egg using his hammer and enjoy with the spoon. Food-safe plastic and 18/10 stainless steel spoon. Hudson’s Bay, $19.99
5. BODUM POUR OVER COFFEE MAKER Go retro! Perfect for bringing back a 1960s finish to your morning coffee, this stylish jug is made from durable borosilicate glass and features a filter lid that can be used to pour hot water over the coffee, as well as a heat-resistant silicone sleeve. Penna & Co., $50
We’ll teach you how to cook, or we’ll do it for you. Victoria’s premier cooking school, catering & events.
6. LA FAVORITA FIGH CREMA DI CARCIOFI In English, crema di carciofi means artichoke and garlic cream, but you can call it heaven for short! Perfect for canapes, pasta salad and on toasted sandwiches. Gold award winning product at the NY Fancy Food Show. Olive the Senses, $8.99
7. ROSLE OYSTER KNIFE Oysters and mussels can easily be broken open with the sturdy 7” stainless steel blade. The hand guard effectively protects hands when opening oysters. Designed and engineered in Germany of 18/10 stainless steel. The Tuscan Kitchen, $40
953 Fort Street Victoria, BC AH
SHOP LOCAL for these featured products in Victoria.
250.590.1865 thelondonchef.com
LIVING
LARGE -- IN 580 SQUARE FEET -BY: GLEN PELOSO
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hen we started to work with our young client who owns this small space, it was clear that she was a creative and dynamic personality who was up for most things. She had the good sense to understand that working with just 580 square feet meant that there was little room for error and she needed help to pull it all together. In the living room we selected a sofa with flip chaise in a neutral dark grey colour with pops of colour introduced in cushions and accessories, and the fab metal coffee table was a clearance bin find.
We discovered the industrial table from an old assembly shop. The surface was in great shape with just enough wear to make it an interesting, and the trend over the last several years toward industrial chic made this a perfect choice. The dining chandelier was a classic mid-century modern fixture and suited the space perfectly. It had just enough “openness” as not to block the limited view of the whole space. We next found the mid century modern chair for the living room area, which was reupholstered. Originally high school stacking chairs, the dining chairs were found at a shop that sells architectural salvage. They were not only comfortable but worked perfectly with the table.
It was in the same shop we also found the vintage machine shop metal drawers that became the bedroom storage feature. We carefully selected from the various boxes to find the blue and yellow colours to work with the birdcage wallpaper. The nine tail lighting fixture in the bedroom complements the décor; a modernized version of a “construction” light but with chrome dipped bulbs to add that pop of glamour.
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A FEW NEAT SHOPS WORTH CHECKING OUT: Pigeonhole Home Store is a recently opened shop that offers an eclectic mix of upcycled and vintage home décor items. 1606 Stanley Avenue, Victoria Charmaine’s Past and Present is well known for their great selection of midcentury modern furniture. 1083 Fort Street, Victoria
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hen it was time to accessorize the condo! The letters presented themselves and with just a simple coat of black paint, became a strong and interesting detail for the end wall. The fantastic blue bicycle was her mode of transportation, which we only discovered as she rode up late for a meeting. The great colour and style of the bike was brilliant and when she complained that she didn’t feel comfortable leaving it in the garage, we assured her it was a perfect combination of design and function. It’s fantastic, layered in front of the letters on the back wall.
All that was left now was some art over the sofa and throw cushions. We suggested she go out to a local fabric store where she could find remnants in her favorite colours. Each cushion required only half a yard of fabric and at six to ten dollars a yard, the cushions were a perfect addition to the space and the budget. The art, which can be an expensive part of the design, were the client’s choosing. She was able to photo shop the images to various sizes and have them printed. A quick trip to a big box store for black frames in allowed for the collage. Each image means something to her and reveals a little of her personality in each selection. Without breaking the bank, the homeowner’s personality and style are perfectly revealed in this space. It was a leap of faith for her as the process couldn’t be designed exactly but more found along the way. On this occasion the destination was well worth the journey.
AH
FOR SMALL SPACE DESIGN INSPIRATION check out www.athomevictoria.com for how-to articles and decor ideos.
atHOME Victoria
BORROWED time HOME DECORATING SOLUTIONS FOR RENTERS
MAKE IT WORK Choose items for this area very thoughtfully, paying attention to how each piece of furniture and every accessory can serve multiple purposes. For example, a console table and chair doubles as a laptop work station; a decorative Murano glass bowl holds your house keys and sunglasses; an upholstered ottoman acts as seating and shoe storage.
MAKE YOURSELF AT HOME BY: STEPHANIE LEWIS
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othing says “welcome� like a lovely entryway; familiar, eye-catching, practical. For renters in small apartments and condos in Victoria, many front doors open directly into an open plan living space, and most do not have the luxury of a foyer. No worry! Here are a few tricks that can create the welcoming feel of an intentional front entrance, without cramping your style or square footage.
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GET REFLECTIVE
BE ARTFUL
Make sure your intentional foyer has some type of a mirror. Not only is it a beautiful décor accent that anchors the entryway, but it bounces light and reflections around the room, giving the illusion of more [not less] space.
Personal collections add charm and personality to a home, and the foyer is the perfect place for framed photos and artwork. Don’t be afraid to hang several different pieces of varying colours and styles. A gallery wall actually opens up a room, instead of closing it in.
THINK OPEN SPACES
EAMES INSPIRED SYLVESTER CHAIR
In a small apartment, you don’t want to block the entryway from the rest of the space. Instead concentrate on making your intentional foyer blend in with its immediate surroundings.
Scan Designs, $129
AH
IF YOUR LANDLORD IS STICKY ABOUT WALL HOLES hang art with 3M Command Picture Hanging Strips. Walmart, London Drugs and Canadian Tire always have them in stock.
DESIGN WITH JENNY MARTIN
HOME.MADE.SIMPLE
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BY: JENNY MARTIN | INTERIOR DESIGNER
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t happens. Over the years, we accumulate a real assortment of furniture and décor items. Cherished possessions handed down from people dear to us, objects bought on a whim, things we’ve spent hours staring at the computer trying to decide on just the right piece in just the right fabric, and then, forgotten items that are currently in the attic. Sadly, the resulting decorating scheme is often less attractive than we’d hoped. What to do? We can’t all afford to start over, and the financial hangover left by Christmas makes big expenditures less than appealing. Lucky for us, it just so happens that this is the perfect season to take on those indoor projects. And there’s lots that can be done on a budget to start pulling it all together. First, I’d start by looking for areas in your home that look chaotic or cluttered and then…
EDIT, SIMPLIFY, DECLUTTER BIRDS OF A FEATHER: If you have collections of things,
group them, and if you have larger collections of things, put some away. Your bookshelves don’t have to be filled wallto-wall with books, break up the space with interesting accessories or pieces of art, and add in a few picture frames. Mix front facing books, with books that are stacked. For other surfaces, ideally you should have minimal items or groupings of items on them; for example, a vase with an orchid, a small sculpture and a stack of 3 books.
EVERYTHING IN ITS PLACE: Adequate storage is also
important, so look to add strategic storage pieces, especially in a house like mine where I need to hide a mess of plastic toys at a moment’s notice. Good options are ottomans or benches with hidden storage, side tables with drawers, and even baskets work great to consolidate clutter and create a calmer environment. Vintage trunks can make unique side tables and bookcases and shelves give you the opportunity to organize and artfully display your accessories.
BEHIND CLOSED DOORS: I like having at least one piece in
a living room with closed doors. To hide the mess! Re-purposing vintage dressers as console tables can be beautiful. Another budget friendly option is using flat pack cabinets to build furniture and yes you can put together yourself. With a little creativity you can create some pretty impressive and functional built-ins with flat pack Kitchen and bathroom cabinetry. Kitchen uppers are 12” deep and come standard at 36”, 42” tall, making the perfect height for console tables. Incorporating a few decorative mouldings to give them your own style. And there’s always places like Ikea that specialize in flat pack and offer a selection of furniture options.
ROOM TO BREATHE:
Re-space planning your rooms is another budget friendly idea. If your room is large enough, move your furniture away from the walls to make a more intimate grouping, leaving circulation space around it. You could also try creating several seating groupings within the same room rather than just the one. Try a set of chairs by the fireplace or in front of a window, separating them from the main seating area. Try switching the uses of rooms around, Dining Rooms can be flipped with Living rooms, or breakfast nooks and offices. You might not want to be cooking in the bathroom but you can think outside the box and see what you can try.
IN WITH THE OLD: Now for those dated pieces in the attic
or basement; a fun way to re-invent old furniture is to refinish it and it’s not as hard as you think. Chalk paint, not to be confused with chalk board paint, is a matte paint that creates a velvety hand painted look with very little to no prep—No sanding and stripping required! Old dated pieces can take on a whole new life with a fresh coat of paint and new hardware. Your boring old oak table and chairs can instantly take on a beachy driftwood wash, or hit it with white for a vintage shabby chic look. And don’t stop there, change the fabric on your Dining chair seats for a whole new look!
JENNY RECOMMENDS • Looking for a local place for flat pack cabinets or want to keep your kitchen but replace just the doors? DIY Cabinet Renew will order doors in the exact sizes you need.
• Add some detail to your furniture projects with crowns and mouldings from The Finishing Store, they come in both wood and primed options so you can stain of paint them.
• A few great places • Refresh old tables to find unique dining with vintage chalk chair fabric include paint to give them Chintz and Co., a new lease on Design District and life. A French Touch local design firms like (On Oak Bay Ave.) Ivan Meade who just carries Annie Sloan launched his own Chalk Paint. fabric collection.
• If you are searching for hardware eye candy, get to Victoria Specialty Hardware (now located on Boleskine).
• Victoria Lamp Shade shop is the perfect place to order custom shades to refresh your lamps.
AH
MORE DESIGN IDEAS online right now at www.athomevictoria.com
atHOME Victoria
ENTERTAIN WITH DOROTHY BY: DOROTHY HAWES
DISCOVER THE WONDERFUL JOY OF ENTERTAINING IN YOUR HOME AS YOU SHARE YOURSELF WITH OTHERS. BY INVITING YOUR FRIENDS ACROSS THE THRESHOLD OF YOUR DOOR, YOU ARE IN ESSENCE SAYING WELCOME TO MY WORLD! AS JANE AUSTEN ONCE OBSERVED...
“There is nothing like staying at home for real comfort.”
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lanning an event in your home can be as relaxed or as simple as you would like it to be; on the flip side it can also be as formal and labour intensive as you choose (think Julie & Julia). Either way, your guests will be honoured that you have made the effort to bring them into your personal space. Don’t be surprised if this makes you feel vulnerable at first, but the upside is definitely worth it.
If you are new to entertaining in your home, start simple in order to limit your stress level. Once you are more comfortable, challenge yourself with new ideas and concepts. Your home is truly an expression of who you are and entertaining at home should be a natural extension of your
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personality. Don’t be afraid to open up to the many new possibilities that are certain to be unexpectedly rewarding when you open the door to your home.
From easy to involved, let me share a few ideas:
2015
Cozy cocktails:
AGELESS LIVING
Organize a pre-dinner gathering at your home prior to heading out to your favourite restaurant with friends. This is an easy way to practice having guests in your home without feeling overwhelmed. Have your friends over for cocktails and appetizers; offer a glass of wine or champagne or try out a new martini recipe. Combine that with some crackers and baked brie (or any appetizers really!) and voila, you’re done.
The coffee klatsch: Visit the bakery, stock up on cinnamon buns, scones, and pastries. Add a fruit plate and some freshly squeezed orange juice and put the coffee pot on! Your friends will love being in the comfort of your home. Beats Starbucks any day.
Classic potluck: An easy way to have friends in your home for the evening without spending hours preparing food. Simply ask each guest to bring an item (appetizer, main course, salad, vegetable dish, bread or dessert) and don’t forget to make it B.Y.O.B. This makes your evening simple, inexpensive and interactive. Set the table, light the candles and dinner will magically appear.
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Hit the deli: Another great way to host a luncheon or dinner party starts with a visit to your local deli, butcher shop, or specialty food store. Decide how little or much you want to prepare from scratch and let the deli/bakery specialists do the rest. There are so many wonderful soups, salads, appetizers and vegetable dishes available in addition to some well-prepared and tasty main course items. If you aren’t in the mood or don’t have the time, consider picking up a dessert from your favourite bakery. Your guests will appreciate the thought and care you put into the meal. All you need is great wine and conversation to complete your dinner party.
Do it all yourself: Once you feel comfortable with having friends in your home, consider trying out a meal from scratch. Practice your recipes one at a time over a few weeks and decide which work best. Choose a menu that allows you to prepare many of the dishes ahead of time, so that you aren’t stressed at the last moment. Allow plenty of time between courses; this creates a relaxed and cozy atmosphere for both you and your guests. My five top picks for local items that are tasty and easy to prepare: • • • • •
Saturday, March 28th @ Victoria�s The Bay Centre n si nu Joi 015! 2
Cheese platters from Charelli’s Cheese Shop Dessert from Patisserie Daniel Breakfast muffins & pastries from Pure Vanilla Gourmet chicken items from M & M Meats French Onion soup from Costco
For More Info: 250 385 3781 AH
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WEEKEND D.I.Y
SOMETIMES ALL A BEDROOM NEEDS IS A NEW POINT OF VIEW. A RENEWED HEADBOARD CAN CHANGE THE ENTIRE LOOK OF THE ENTIRE ROOM—IN JUST A FEW HOURS AND FOR WAY LESS THAN $100! BY: ELIZABETH DEAN
B
reathe new life into a stale, outdated and ho-hum bedroom with fabric and a little imagination. An upholstered or padded fabric headboard will bring an instantly updated and modern look to your bedroom space.
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If your existing headboard is already square or rectangular
in shape, this is a simple straightforward task that will take just a few hours to complete. For a rounded or odd shaped headboard, you might want to consider purchasing a slab of MDF from Home Depot and starting from scratch. Either way, the headboard needs to be at least as wide as your bed frame. For an ultra-modern look, create a tall headboard that extends at least 60 inches up the wall behind your bed.
FABRIC SELECTION IS IMPORTANT If you have found a fabric you love, purchase a large piece (at least 4 metres) from your favourite fabric shop. If you are unsure, try Fabricland (located behind Old Navy in Tillicum Centre). You could also use an existing flat bed sheet, antique chenille bedspread, interesting cloth tablecloth or ample vintage fabric remnant that matches your bedroom décor. The easiest way to get an instantly coordinated look is to purchase a duvet set (bed in a bag style that comes with matching bed linens), and simply repurpose the matching top sheet as your custom headboard cover.
distinct unique LOTS OF PADDING IS CRITICAL FOR COMFORT
inspiring
Two layers of quilt batting are needed. For the first layer, wrap from side to side with the batting overlapping in the back. For the second layer, wrap from front to back with the batting overlapping again in the back. There is no need to secure the batting; it will stick to itself. Take some extra time to smooth out the padding to reduce any creasing or puckering.
TAKE YOUR TIME WITH ASSEMBLY With the batting in place, cover the padding with your fabric making sure that any patterns are centred and placed properly. Start with each side and pull it tightly to the back of the headboard frame, for a tailored, sleek look. Finally, pull the top over and to the back, ensuring a snug, neat fit. Fold the three fabric ends (sides and top) together neatly at the back and affix to the back using a staple gun. Affix the headboard to the wall using large anchored screws and you are done!
Your Custom Design Wedding & Engagement Specialists
FINISHING TOUCH Button tufting will give your DIY headboard a polished, professional look. If you decide to tuft, there’s an easy way. Choose where you want your buttons, and use those locations to affix the headboard to the wall, pre-drilling each location and then attaching to the wall with wall screws. To finish, simply sew on your buttons to conceal the nail heads and voila—tufting!
AH
LOOKING FOR INSPIRATION? Many more D.I.Y projects on our website at www.athomevictoria.com
832 Fort St. Victoria, B.C. 250-381-1105
creole.ca - facebook.com/creolejewellery
TRAVEL CLOSE TO HOME WICKANINNISH INN TOFINO, B.C.
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“Growing up in Tofino, as a family, we always marveled at the sheer power of Mother Nature as we viewed the crashing waves below our home. Later in life, our father had a cabin built near Chesterman Beach on a point of land just beyond where the Wickaninnish Inn would eventually be.” - Charles McDiarmid, President & Managing Director
BY: CHELSEA FORMAN
T
he familiar gray of Canada’s West Coast prowls across the sky marking winter on the Pacific Rim. Vancouver Island’s open coast braces itself for the fury of nature, where waves thrash, clouds menace and rain is so relentless, we toy with the idea of punishment from above. Storm watching season is in full swing.
One of the islands most renowned retreats for storm watching is Tofino’s Wickaninnish Inn. Offering unprecedented luxury and comfort, the Inn is perched on a pristine point of land over the sea. Completely exposed to nature’s wild elements, it divides the rain forest and the wild Pacific Ocean.
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he Inn has two buildings that were designed to complement each other and the natural beauty of the land—they are called ‘At-the-Pointe’ and ‘On-the-Beach’. The building exteriors offer a mere glimpse into the true beauty of the Wickaninnish. The interior is a luxurious hub in the centre of the rugged West Coast. The décor is a flawless rendition of the wilderness waiting just steps out the doors—wood accents, local art and neutral tones ensure a constant reminder of where you are in the world. With just 75 guest rooms, you are guaranteed an intimate and relaxing stay, any time of year. Each room has an ocean view, and they are so superb that you may not see any other guests until they emerge for a meal or spa treatment. More adventurous vacationers will be spotted in head to toe yellow rain gear braving the blustery weather on the beach.
If you aren’t that daring, cozy in at one of the Inn’s three eateries and storm watch over delicious local fare.
While the natural environment promises to astonish, another lasting memory will be your time at the Inn’s Ancient Cedars Spa. Described by the Wickanninish as the pearl of the Inn, the spa is located within the At-thePointe building at ocean level. Covered by forest fringe and meeting the rocks with waves crashing against them, this may be the most fantastic spa setting you ever see. A variety of ultraluxurious treatments and yoga classes are offered.
Storm watching season at the Wickanninish Inn is one of this region’s most extraordinary experiences. It is a time (and place) for people to interact with nature’s uncontrollable elements from a luxurious and comfortable coastal sanctuary. AH
Conservative Retirement & Estate Planning
“The Legacy Lifestyle Program employs advanced planning strategies to protect and enhance your lifestyle.” Head Office 2-15 Cadillac Ave Victoria, BC P. 250 480 1095
legacygroup.ca
Robert Pesti, CLU, EPC Todd MacKenzie Melissa Huston
250.480.1095
DINE BY: TRACEY DRAKE
IN
OUT
Fiamo Pizza & Wine Bar
Foo Asian Street Food
515 Yates Street, Victoria fiamo.ca
769 Yates Street, Victoria foofood.ca
My first visit to Fiamo was fuelled by a promise of Montelvini Proscecco on tap, and it didn’t disappoint! Since then, the warm ambiance (I love sitting in the velvet vintage-style bench seating under the massive crystal chandelier) and the excellent food keep me coming back. Chef James Avila, who I first met at Dine Up the Inlet in Tofino, has a delectably unpretentious approach to rustic Italian food that I appreciate. I have my menu regulars, but Fiamo’s weekly Risotto night is also a great time to experience this cozy eatery for the first time.
Chef/owner Patrick Lynch has this thumb on the pulse of street food in downtown Victoria. Located at the corner of Yates and Blanshard, Foo Asian Street Food offers up fresh, imaginative and deliciously authentic eats. Although you can pull up a stool and dine in, I always take out. You really can’t go wrong with any of their daily specials (which they post on the Foo website). Foo is the perfect lunch meal to take to the office, or evening bite to indulge your palette and watch the city come to life. Foo has very successfully brought Asian stall food culture to YYJ.
Shaved Prosciutto Artisan Pizza - $14 Chianti braised figs, goat cheese and toasted almonds.
Sweet & Sour Pork Belly - $13 Crisp pork belly, chilli fried green beans, sweet soy & tamarind glaze with steamed rice.
MUST TRY:
Ravioli - $18 Stuffed with roasted butternut squash and goat cheese with sage brown butter sauce, toasted almonds and parmesan.
MUST TRY:
Papaya Salad - $8 Fresh green papaya, mint, cilantro & spiced roasted peanuts with lime chilli dressing. AH
WORLDS APART ON YATES STREET Each issue atHOME Victoria reviews two neighbourhood restaurants – one sit down and one to-go. This issue, we’re eating on Yates.
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Sea Star Estate Farm & Vineyards recognized by the Northwest Wine Summit as a “Winery of Distinction� one of only 8 wineries in B.C. to be honoured. Our grapes are complemented by another Pender Island vineyard, Clam Bay Farms ensuring our wines are authentically made from locally grown grapes, bestowing their unique nature to the wine. Join us on Pender Island to purchase directly from the winery. The Tasting Room hours vary seasonally so please call us, or visit our website seastarvineyards.ca for updated dates and hours, as well as retail locations near you.
6621 Harbour Hill Drive Pender Island, BC
250-629-6960
ARCHITECTURAL wonders
STAIRWAY TO HEAVEN
T
he magnificent double helix spiral staircase, designed by Guiseppe Momo in 1932, is located in the Vatican Museums in the Vatican city. A double helix is two separates staircases that wind around each other. A canopy located above provides the necessary light to illuminate the stairs. An exceptional sight to behold, this superb architectural stairway features granite doric columns and a herringbone paving pattern.
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