NFDI Style Magazine | Fall 2021 by Nyla Free

ST YLE

NFDI

F A L L

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Volume .03 I S S U E . 0 4

FALL FASHION

Welcome Autumn!

A PENT HOUSE HOME TOUR

and

MAKING AN ENT RANC E WIT H T EAM NF DI

FALL CONTENT 01

Fall 2021

31 07

07. NFDI Staff Picks If NFDI were a... FOYER

17. Home Tour A penthouse tour with a dreamy YYC view.

31. Editorial Feature A Thanksgiving tablescape you wont want to miss!

38. Educational Feature How well do you know your vintage terms?

41. Trend Feature We’re talking all things fall fashion.

51. NFDI Travels We’re headed overseas this issue!

69. NFDIY The transformation story behind a fab find!

73.

NFDI Colour Story See what colour we’re loving this season.

51 69 N F D I Style

NOT E FROM THE

Editor

Growing up, I wasn’t fashionable, but I did care about clothes. I vividly recall going to London for a summer vacation, and purchasing peacock blue pants, paired with a coordinating orange and peacock blue striped sweater from Marks and Spencer. I cringe every time I think about the outfit! At the time, I thought I was all that and a bag of chips, but quite frankly the outfit was not good. It may have been the style there in London, but arriving back home (at the time Toronto), I stuck out like a sore thumb. No one understood the look. Needless to say, I wore it once, and never again. While my style has certainly evolved from my 12-year-old self, the idea of looking put together has not. Thankfully, the internet has closed the gap that once existed between Europe and North America for fashion, and fashion no longer lives simply in magazines. It was early in my career when I had the epiphany of “dressing for success”, and that my attire should have a connection to my career as an interior designer. Our client from this issue’s home tour (pg. 17), was pivotal in guiding me into understanding my personal style, aesthetic and sense of self. She owned a beautiful women’s clothing boutique when we first met. We’ve known each other for over 20 years, so being able to work closely together on their most recent home was a joy. I still have a coat my husband purchased for me from her store over 15 years ago. Classic pieces never age. I think the same can be said for people.

Fall is my favourite fashion season, so with that, we’re sharing some outfits with items I’ve recently added to my wardrobe (pg. 41). We’ve got looks from weekend casual, to a business power suit and everything in between. While this is my own personal style, perhaps these pages will give you a little inspiration to update your wardrobe this season, and treat yourself to a few new items. Not only is there a range of looks, there’s a range of price points. I like to take a high/ low, save and splurge approach to my closet, much like we do with design. That being said, I do believe in investing in the right pieces. The crossover of fashion to interiors is one I’m very fond of, and the connection is strong! When we look good, we feel good, and that’s equally important when it comes to the design of your home. Creating spaces our clients feel good in, is the essence of how we design, so if you’re not feeling good in your home, maybe it’s time for a refresh, an overhaul, or a move? Speaking of moving, people are on the move again from a travel perspective. It’s both exciting, and daunting, considering all the Covid guidelines and restrictions within each country. Whether you’re ready to fly the friendly skies, or happy to virtually visit, we’re taking you on a trip to Barcelona this issue on pgs 51-68. It’s one of my favourite places, with its history, cuisine and architecture. I hope I can visit again one day. For all intents and purposes, let’s call our fall lookbook a fashion issue. Our staff picks (pgs. 7-15) centres around the entryway, the space in your home that makes a first impression and greets guests with a warm welcome. The entrance of your home should be fashion forward, and set the stage as to how you want your guests to feel in your home. If you’ll be welcoming guests into your home this Thanksgiving, we’re sharing inspiration for setting a table and bringing community once again around the dinner table. Fall is a special time of year. We cozy up, add layers, and prepare for the holidays. We hope this issue offers inspiration as you flip each page. We can’t tell you how much it means to us that you read, and follow along. This lookbook is truly a labour of love, and we’re so thankful you’ve taken the time to read. Happy Thanksgiving, happy fall, and many blessings to you, and your family.

-Nyla

N F D I Style

Fall 2021

N F D I Style

If NFDI

were a

FOYER [foy-er] noun

The room in a house or apartment leading from the front door to other rooms, where things like coats and hats are kept. Commonly pronounced Foy-yay in Canada and the UK, and Foy-er in the United States.) A foyer is the area just inside the door to a home or building. Also known as an entryway, it can be configured as a room or a hallway, and is where guests are greeted. The foyer connects the entrance to rest of the home, and its decor can set the tone for the interior to come. The word foyer comes from the French word feu, meaning fire, or the Latin word focus, meaning hearth. Traditionally, a foyer was an entry hall to a large public building like a theatre or concert hall, and before central heating, was where the audience warmed up during intermission. Hence, the connection to warmth in the term’s etymology. Words by Kerstin Daly

NFDI Staff Picks

N F D I Style

Nyla 3

A N AT U R A L WELCOME As guests enter, I want them to feel relaxed, calm, and comfortable. I feel there is no better way to do that than with natural materials. Warm woods, natural stone, concrete and hand blown glass, are a few of the materials I’ve incorporated. I’ve also embraced scale in the size of the pendant, the bold artwork and oversized palm, all to fill the space, and evoke a mood, and set the tone for our time together with guests. In true fashion, having a mix of old and new is my preferred approach to design. I love creating a sense of time and a life well lived. First impressions are everything, and an entry is exactly that.

NFDI Staff Picks

01. Candlesticks 1st Dibs 02. Round Tray Provide Home 03. Ceramic Vase Salt by the Caza

Bri THE BOLD & B E AU T I F U L

01. Tall Ceramic Vase Salt by the Caza 02. Toss Cushion West Elm 03. Low Ceramic Bowl Salt by the Caza

A little modern influence paired with Scandinavian flair makes for my perfect space. As guests enter my foyer, they’re greeted by bold graphics and modern furnishings. I would like those who enter to feel energized yet refreshed as they come into my home, and get a sense of who I am through my interior styling. Choosing a light toned chevron floor sets the stage for higher contrast pieces. I have a green thumb (and minor plant obsession), so incorporating some greenery by way of a large olive tree is a fitting & obvious choice for my entry! The Willian Santiago piece over my console adds a pop of blush to my foyer and paired with my Allied Maker chandelier is simply *chef’s kiss*.

N F D I Style

Alex 01. Table Lamp Currey & Co. 02. Hands Print Avenue Road

M I D C E N T U RY M A RV E L I wanted my foyer to feel timeless, welcoming, and be a reflection of my own personal style as it continues to evolve. Incorporating iconic pieces such as the George Nelson Bubble Lamp, help to create this sense of timelessness. The unexpected stone floor is an extension of the exterior, bringing in natural tones and textures which ground the space. A blend of warm natural tones with layers of midcentury texture and form balance out the space. An intentional simplicity in the furniture selections, allows the architectural details to be the focal point. The neutral palette evokes a feeling of comfort and calm for welcoming guests into the space. The result is a space that feels inviting and relaxed for our guests whom we love to entertain on the regular! And, as always, I love to include live plants in each room to bring the space to life!

NFDI Staff Picks

Ana 3

HOLA BIENVENIDOS!

01. Table Lamp The Modern Shop 02. Low Bowl Jonathan Adler 03. Vase Collection Scout Design Studio

My goal was to design a warm, inviting space in which to welcome family and friends. I wanted my foyer to celebrate and honour my family’s Chilean roots and culture, and to give our daughters a sense of their culture to pass on to their families. The earthy, rustic, terracotta tones, the organic shapes of the ceiling details and doorway, and the geometric tile floor are reminiscent of my and my husband’s childhood homes. The painting, which depicts Valparaiso, the oldest port town in Chile, brings in the earth tones of the rustic old town, and the blues of sea and sky. What inspires us today in the here and now is also introduced via the Korean and Japanese style furniture. I love, love the chair!

N F D I Style

01. Toss Cushion Pier 1 02. Citrine Candle NFDI Shop 03. Candlesticks Crate & Barrel

3 2

Kerstin WELCOME TO MY WORLD

I would like my foyer to be a warm and welcoming introduction to the home. I’ve chosen bright, happy colours, multiple candles, and a “sunburst” brown wood cabinet to visually convey a sense of warmth. There is a comfortable chartreuse upholstered bench to perch on while putting on footwear, and a mirror for checking your look before dashing out the door. The brass on the underside of the light fixture is repeated in the mirror frame and candlesticks. A cosy “paint chip” rug anchors the space, and establishes the fun palette. The Emily Jeffords painting above the bench echoes the colours in the rug, bench, and accent pillow.

NFDI Staff Picks

Jackie 2

01. Candelabra First Dibs 02. Hand Hooks Etsy

A D A N DY F I R S T IMPRESSION

Description: First impressions are important, and to me a foyer is the first impression of a home. My personality, style, and the things that I love and cherish are such an eclectic mix, and I love the idea of merging those components to create something that is completely and uniquely me. Pairing traditional paneling with a modern pop of colour to balance out the calm and beauty of natural stone flooring, and having interesting details that draw you into the space is something I feel we all need more of. And who doesn’t appreciate an extra hand when coming home? Even if they are all inanimate objects! If design is a fork in the road and everyone is going right, I’m going left - which is just fine and dandy with me.

N F D I Style

Jessie 2

FLORAL DELIGHT With its soft natural elements and cohesive color scheme, I would love to welcome guests into this space. There is texture and interest in the decorative elements, hopefully leaving you wanting to see more of my home. The bench’s oval shape offers a perfect place to sit, while the wooden dot hooks make it easy for my guests to hang their hats. I used to be a florist for a reason - I love flowers! So when given the opportunity to use flowers in a design, I will. The floral wallpaper is light and flowy, and brings movement into the room.

NFDI Staff Picks

01. Wall Hooks Muuto 02. Vases West Elm

citrine WITH NOTES OF P E A R , S E A S A L T, RED CEDAR & ORANGE

NF DI

Shop

N F D I Style

When I first started my design business, my clothes needed an update. I visited a boutique in downtown Calgary called Focus, and invested in a capsule style wardrobe with the help of the lovely staff. I frequented the store because I enjoyed the people, I loved the aesthetic, and ended up getting to know the owners. Over the years we kept in touch, and I had the privilege of helping with a few home design details here and there. Fast forward to 2019 when we reconnected, this time with the request to design their new penthouse condo. We already had a great connection, and knew we’d work well together. There was a pre-existing understanding of style, and appreciation for design. We collaborated through the entire design process, working closely together to bring their space to life. Our client had a clear understanding of what she wanted the home to feel and look like, and we brought our interior design experience and expertise into the mix. What I loved about shopping at Focus was a similar collaborative experience. They listened to what I felt comfortable wearing, what I was drawn to, but then infused their fashion expertise into the mix, suggesting items and ensembles I wouldn’t have thought to put together. While the store is no longer open, I will always remember the experience of shopping there, and how it made me feel. I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to collaborate, and be trusted with the design of their home. Enjoy the tour!

Home Tour

From fashion to

INTERIORS

INTERIOR DESIGN: NYLA FREE DESIGNS PHOTOGRAPHY PHIL CROZIER

N F D I Style

Q&A WHAT WAS THE OVERALL FEELING YOU WANTED TO CREATE IN YOUR HOME? “I wanted to convey an overall feeling of ‘lightness’. Lightness in colour and natural light (that we have an abundance of), and in the details and furnishings.”

Home Tour

John Gould

Dining Room Art, all three.

Tong Lou

Art above console.

N F D I Style

Home Tour

YOU HAVE A BEAUTIFUL COLLECTION OF ART! HOW HAVE YOU SELECTED IT OVER THE YEARS? “I was influenced by my mother who had great style and furnished our home with beautiful pieces and my father who loved western Canadian art. I also remember, vividly, admiring two European pieces in my grandparents home as a young girl. I have those two pieces still! Together we have found pieces over the years that spoke to our western Canadian heritage. We also lived in Hong Kong for a period of time and that very diverse and multi cultural city left a huge mark on us. While there we collected some of my favourite pieces which might be categorized as naive or folk... We also purchased a few pieces of Asian furniture. Our John Gould’s give me a sense of calm. I love them.”

N F D I Style

Home Tour

WITH A FASHION BACKGROUND, HOW HAS THIS INFLUENCED YOUR DESIGN AESTHETIC? “I like clean lines and wonderful accessories in both fashion and furnishings!”

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YOU HAVE MANY AUTHENTIC PIECES OF FURNITURE & YOUR HOME FEELS “COLLECTED”. COULD YOU SHARE MORE ABOUT THE HISTORY, & WHERE THEY CAME FROM? “I think all of the wooden pieces are Asian... I just realized that! The upholstered pieces were either custom built for the space or designer pieces that I have admired for years and finally was able to incorporate into our home. Occasional pieces have been collected over the years.”

Home Tour

N F D I Style

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE SPACE? “In moving here, to this beautiful “glass box”of ours, every window allows us to observe and admire our beautiful city. Every space is a favourite!”

Home Tour

N F D I Style

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE? “Simple, in the best of ways. Not complicated, easy to understand.”

FUN FACT: The guest room at our penthouse project is a multipurpose space, serving as both a home office and a bedroom. When needed as a guest room, the murphy bed folds down from the millwork and the desk slides under.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE ABOUT TO EMBARK ON A RENOVATION OR NEW BUILD? “Do your homework. Know what you like/need and seek appropriate help in realizing it.”

Home Tour

N F D I Style

Home Tour

N F D I Style

Thanksgiving TA B L E

HOW TO SET A

get the look

• Variety of mini gourds, squash and pumpkins • Table runner • Candlesticks & candles • Single branches to add dimension to the table (optional) *I used olive branches • Tableware • Silverware • Glassware

hether your table is set for two, four, six or twelve, creating an inviting

table scape is a special offering for your guests. When entertaining, I like to set my table early in the day, so I’m not rushed and it’s something our guests can appreciate as they arrive. Once dinner is served, the table will be a bustle of activity and conversation. If you’re setting the table to have food served from the kitchen or alternate location, you’ll have more room to play with your settings, and centerpiece decor. If the opposite, and food will be placed on the table, allow space for serving pieces in and amongst each place and within the centre. Organize your place settings according to the menu. Below is a diagram of all the possible items you may require at each place. Pair back as needed, and set your table as formally, or casually as you see fit. It’s all about having fun with the creative process!

BREAD PLATE

WATER GLASS WINE GLASS NAPKIN

BREAD KNIFE

SALAD PLATE DINNER KNIFE

SALAD FORK TEASPOON DINNER FORK DINNER PLATE

Editorial Feature

SOUP SPOON

N F D I Style

the set up

With gourds, squash and pumpkins a plenty this time of year, I filled the centre of my table with a variety of each, layering on top of each other, and spilling over into the settings for additional impact. I love the mood candles bring to a table, and the antique chandelier style candles juxtapose the gourds, and add a whimsical touch. An unlikely pairing, but that’s what makes it fun!

T IP :

When formal dining, the rule of thumb is to start with silverware from the outside moving in towards the plate.

T IP :

Place cards are a great way to welcome guests and add a personal touch to each setting. It also eliminates the pre dinner, “where should I sit?” awkwardness.

T IP :

Don’t leave purchasing gourds to the last minute. They’re available in grocery stores and markets now, and will last for weeks. Stock up while you can to avoid disappointment as Thanksgiving nears.

Editorial Feature

N F D I Style

INTERIOR DESIGN BY

NYLA FREE DESIGNS Amarosa Collection | Grand Puro ENGINEERED HARDWOOD PLANKS

Exclusive to

VISIT ONE OF OUR LOCATIONS

Calgary | Van c ou ve r | Edmo n t o n | C hi cago d i v i n e f l o o r. c o m

Home Tour

VINTAGE GLOSSARY Incorporating aged pieces into your home is a great way to add personality and interest to your decor. From furniture pieces to small accessories, there’s no shortage of fabulous finds out there. Items with history are great conversation starters, and offer a room a different kind of warmth and flavour than a newer item will. Having an understanding of how old and authentic an item actually is, is a great place to start. There are a lot of reproductions and knock-offs out there, so to avoid disappointment, start by getting familiar with the terms, and the meaning of each.

So what’s vintage vs. retro? Antique vs. Architectural Salvage? If you’re interested in adding items with character, and history into your home, we’ve got you covered with a glossary of definitions depending on the age and era of each item.

N F D I Style

RETRO 20 YEARS

SALVAGE

DEPENDANT ON AGE OF BUILDING Parts of a building that is being demolished or renovated that are saved for use in or on another building. These can include: lumber, hardware, lighting and plumbing fixtures, doors, moulding, tile, bricks, windows, mantles, and decorative details. Salvage can be a cost effective alternative to new components, and may be of greater quality, but also may need to be restored.

Educational Feature

Generally pieces made in the last 20 years, which are a reproduction of an earlier style, and not actually from that period. Retro references the appearance of the object, rather than its genesis. The term comes from the Latin prefix meaning “backward”. This looking back has helped to bring outdated styles back into fashion. A retro item is often more affordable than its real counterpart from the referenced period.

VINTAGE 20 - 90 YEARS

Refers to items which are at least 20 years old, and up to 99 years of age. Vintage pieces are actually from the time period they represent (as opposed to “retro”), and should be representative of the best of the era in which they were produced. A sense of nostalgia or cultural significance is often tied to something vintage.

ANTIQUE 10 0 + Y E A R S

A collectible item that is confirmed to be at least 100 years old, and is valued for its beauty, quality, rarity, or condition. Furniture would be hand made or made with hand tools. Collectability depends on how many pieces of a particular style were produced. The market for antiques has been on the decline in recent decades, as tastes and home styles change and evolve. Therefore, antiques are often used as accents in the home, rather than as everyday furnishings.

Words by Kerstin Daly

falling -forfashion September is by far my favourite month of the year, and fall, my favorite season. I love the layers, the colour of the leaves, the warm sunlight, and switching to comfort food. I also love fall fashion. It’s the time of year I invest a little more, and switch up my wardrobe with new items. I don’t profess to be a fashion expert, interior design yes, however I do see the two often going hand in hand. We all have a style and aesthetic we’re drawn to, both with fashion and interiors. Ultimately, we want to feel good in our homes, and in our clothes. Here’s what I’m feeling good in this season!

P H O TO G R A P H Y MICHELLE JOHNSON

Home Tour

TRENDY FRAMES Make a statement with bold specs.

LIGHT TURTLENECK SWEATER You can’t go wrong with a basic turtleneck! This one is extra long for that layered look.

SLIP SKIRT The soft & flowy nature of satin adds a formal touch.

BLACK LEATHER SHOULDER BAG A classic staple, perfect for carrying all your day to day items.

WHITE SNEAKERS Set the foundation for your outfit with a crisp pair of white sneakers.

N F D I Style

NEUTRAL TANK A simple layer that gives an opportunity to embelish with accessories.

BLACK SUIT Professional. Sophisticated. Power Suit. PEARLS Always a fashion must have. Layer for added drama.

HANDBAG The perfect evening bag for your “going out” essentials.

PATENT HEELS Elevate your look with a pair of “go with anything” black patent heels.

Trend Feature

MAXI DRESS Dress up, dress down. Belt, no belt. Heels or sneakers, the options are endless.

CROPPED DENIM JACKET A casual layer with a little cool factor.

LEOPARD PRINT BELT Have fun by adding a printed belt!

BLACK ANKLE BOOTS A fall staple, these are a great addition to your wardrobe, and will carry through to winter.

GREEN BAG Integrate a pop of colour by way of accessories!

N F D I Style

TAN BLAZER Whether a simple tee or a ruffled blouse, this will be a go to layer for fall.

RED LIPSTICK Pair a red lip with any outfit to add a pop of colour.

BOYFRIEND JEANS High waist, wide leg denim is back & it’s oh so flattering! Juxtapose this boyfriend style with a ruffled blouse!

BLUSH BLOUSE Feminine, beautiful with a light & airy touch.

LEATHER BELT Always a great accessory to have at the ready.

KIT TEN HEELS A subtle heel takes your outfit to the next level, while still providing comfort.

Trend Feature

N F D I Style

GRAPHIC TEE Have some fun by adding a graphic tee, a closet must have.

PLAID JACKET We think this might just be the perfect fall jacket!

LEATHER BAG A great handbag is always a good idea!

SUNNIES Look good while protecting your eyes!

WIDE LEG JEANS Wear with anything everyday all day.

WHITE SNEAKERS From work week to weekend, these never go out of style.

N F D I Style

Five years ago, my girlfriend texted saying “I found a food and wine tour in Barcelona, interested?” Within 24 hours the trip was booked. Three of us ended up on a ten day adventure of inspiration, indulgence, and friendship. It was a spontaneous trip, and one I hadn’t considered taking, but in the moment, I was all in. I have zero regrets. In fact, the city filled my soul on so many levels, I yearn to go back. It is vibrant, raw, loyal and authentic. Welcome to Barcelona. Whether you’ve been here before, and these images ignite memories from your visit, or on the contrary, they instill a desire to visit, either way, Barcelona is magic. I highly recommend adding it to your travel list, if it’s not already on it.

a n o l e c Ba r

Travel Feature

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Barcelona is a city of over 1.6 million people, located in NE Spain on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, in Spain’s Catalonia Region. It is built on a 5 km wide plain facing the Mediterranean Sea to the east, and bordered by the Besos River to the north, the Collserola Mountains to the west, and the Llobregat River to the south. Barcelona is the largest city on the Mediterranean Sea, and the largest cruise port in Europe. This old and beautiful Spanish city is known for its architecture, beaches, parks, museums, sports, football, food, and nightlife. The Mediterranean climate brings hot, humid summers, and mild winters. The majority of residents speak Castilian Spanish or Catalan. English is not commonly spoken, so it’s best to learn some basic Spanish before you visit.

Travel Feature

A T Y S

ANAKENA HOUSE

This is a hidden gem, a quaint bed and breakfast with an actual key to access your room. Great location, safe, and quiet with many sites, cafés and shops within walking distance. The continental breakfast is divine, offering a great start to your day of touring the city. The biggest downfall is the size of the elevator, and managing up to the rooms with your luggage, but if you ask me, that’s part of the charm.

N F D I Style

Travel Feature

B AR LA P L ATA An institution in Barcelona, and one of the oldest restaurants in the city. Wine is on tap, and the menu consists of roughly six options. This was where I ate an entire anchovy, head and all.

il caffe di francesco

Even though a chain, Caffé Di Francesco is authentic, and offers the feeling of a neighborhood coffee shop. Take a break from walking the streets of Barcelona, and refuel with a coffee and a bikini sandwich.

N F D I Style

PATATAS BRA VA S

You can’t go wrong with fried potatoes, and a warm spicy sauce. Many restaurants prepared their own version, and we found ourselves ordering them everywhere we went.

B O QUE R IA MARK ET Located in the heart of the city, La Boqueria is a world-renowned public market. It’s not simply for the locals, it’s worth visiting for the sensory overload of fresh food, and grocery around every corner. Pick up charcuterie in a cone for an afternoon snack.

Travel Feature

L A MA R SAL A DA

A culinary experience where food is a work of art. Specializing in seafood, and known for their paella, with all fish hand-selected four times a week from the local market. Try to get a seat on the patio!

.. C HOK

Essentially gourmet donuts on a stick. Need I say more.

N F D I Style

E E S

Travel Feature

A cathedral that celebrates Gothic style architecture in the Ribera district of Barcelona. Built in the 14th century, the construction was before it’s time, with its vast pillars and concentric arches. The moody, dark interior is juxtaposed by brilliant, stained glass windows.

SANTA MARIA DEL MAR CATHEDRAL

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PARK .. GÜELL

This park is home to surreal, and highly symbolic architecture. Located on the edge of the city, it boasts stunning views, and incredible tile detail on the walls and ceilings, full of pattern and colour.

Travel Feature

BASILICA SAGRADA FAMILIA Barcelona’s most iconic landmark, this still-underconstruction church was designed by Antoni Gaudi, Spain’s most famous architect, and is a great example of Catalan Modernista architecture. Every element of his design contains religious symbolism.

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GOTHIC QUARTER

Narrow, graffiti lined streets, full of life and unexpected findings, from music, to handcrafted handbags, cafés to churches. You can wander the streets for hours and experience something new at each turn.

Travel Feature

CASA BATLLO ‘

Another Gaudi masterpiece which sits almost unassumingly between other buildings. Once you see it though, it’s hard to take your eyes off of it. With its rounded windows, curved balconies and whimsical architecture, you can look at it for hours and see something new.

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LA PEDRERA Also known as Casa Milà, this was the last personal residence architect Antonio Gaudi designed. The Milà family occupied the main floor, while the other floors were rented as apartments. It’s rough hewn appearance resembles that of a quarry, drawing inspiration from natural forms.

Travel Feature

N F D I Style

DID YOU KNOW? • Barcelona was built by the Romans, and is older than Rome. • Located only 150 km south of the border of France, Barcelona is rumoured to have rejected the Eiffel Tower, which was consequently erected in Paris. • There were no beaches in Barcelona until the 1992 Summer Olympics, which they hosted, and now the city boasts 7 beaches over 4.5 km of coastline. • Barcelona is the only city to have received a Royal Gold Medal for architecture from the Royal Institute of British Architects, an honour normally reserved for one or more architects. It was awarded in 1999. • There is a large Okupa (squatters) movement in the city, taking advantage of the many vacant and abandoned buildings. • Bullfighting has been banned in Catalonia since 2010.

ADDITIONAL SIGHTS TO SEE The Barcelona City History Museum - Built on the excavated remains of the largest Roman settlement discovered in Europe. After entering, you descend to the underground Roman city of Barcino. Las Ramblas - A picturesque, tree-lined pedestrian street in the centre of the city, featuring shops, hotels, restaurants, and nightclubs. Camp Nou Stadium - Sports fans will want to visit the largest football stadium in Europe. Home of the renowned FC Barcelona football team, Camp Nou holds almost 100,000 people. It was opened in 1957.

Travel Feature

N F D I Style

We recently spent a day visiting local vintage stores, and found a gem of a chair. It was battered and bruised, but we saw its potential, and decided to give it a new lease on life. It’s all about the thrill of the find, and bringing new life to a piece of furniture. The refinishing process is a great way to take a piece from drab to fab, and add a “life well lived” flavour to your home.

worn to wonderful

WHAT YOU’LL NEED: • All purpose remover • Sandpaper of a few different grits (80-400) • Wood filler • Wood glue • New hardware (optional) • Primer • Paint • Screwdrivers

PROJECT BREAKDOWN: • Chair: $38 • Materials: $83 • Paint & Primer: $68 • Cane: $220 TOTAL $409 CAD 1. Research & Materials Make sure to read into the restoration process. Different materialities will require a different approach, so it’s imperative you do your research ahead of time. When you have a firm handle on your process, head on over to your local hardware store to pick up the necessary materials.

TOTAL HOURS: 23

2. Decaning We had to remove the existing caning in our chair before we could get to work on the refinishing process. We were able to do this ourselves, however if you’re not able to successfully remove the caning without damaging the structural integrity of the chair, we recommend you take it to a professional. We started by removing the chair’s spline, and were able to then lift out the caning weave from there. NOTE: this would also be true for upholstered items.

3. Stripping Your fab find will likely have an existing finish, which will need removing. Believe me when I say using an all-purpose remover will make your life a lot easier! Once the existing finish is off, you’re ready for sanding. 4. Sanding Using a coarser sanding paper (100-120), sand down your piece. Make sure to sand out any dents or scratches.

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5. Glue & Filler If your piece is splitting in areas, use a wood glue and clamp the affected area accordingly. Any knicks or gauges in the wood can be filled using a wood filler. Follow up using a finer sandpaper (180-400). Re-sand your fab find, making sure to smooth out any spots where filler was used.

6. Prime & Paint You’ll first need to apply an even coat of primer to your item. Careful not to apply too much as to avoid runs or drips in the primer. Once dried, you’re ready to paint! Again, apply an even coat of paint, being sure to avoid any drips. Depending on the colour you’re working with, you may need to apply multiple coats of paint. Should this be the case, using a finer grit sandpaper, quickly sand over your piece being NOTE: If painting, it’s best not to use too fine of a careful as not to remove the paint finish. Continue this process sand paper. Paint requires subtle texture for best results. until you’re happy with your results! Applying paint to a smoother surface can lead to peeling. We used 180 grit paper to finish off our chair. NOTE: When using an interior paint, it’s not required that you Using a 400 grit sandpaper to finish your fab find is apply a varnish to seal your piece. If you’re staining, however, best suited if you’re planning on staining your piece. varnish it will be necessary.

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7. Caning Caning is a traditional process that not many people are familiar with. We enlisted the help of Caning Canada to add in the final touches to our chair. 8. Style & Enjoy! You’re ready to set the stage! Style your new item with decor and enjoy your fab find!

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403.255.4980 www.nylafreedesigns.com #601, 5920 1A Street SW Calgary AB T2H 0G3