NFDI Style Magazine | Winter 2021

ST YLE

NFDI

W I N T E R

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NEW YEAR, N E W TA K E O N STA F F P I C KS

BULLET JOURNALING, N F D I T R AV E L S & MORE!

Volume .03 I S S U E . 0 1

EDITOR’S NOT 01

Winter 2021

OT E

I don’t have 20/20 vision. I was prescribed glasses in my late twenties. I remember being amazed at how clear things were when I first got them. I didn’t have a strong prescription, but the difference was enough that I would lift my glasses up and down often, enthusiastic about the change in clarity.

I’ve gotten used to my glasses, and you could say I take them for granted. They give me perspective, they provide focus and they make my vision clearer.

My husband also wears glasses, mostly contacts, and he has since he was 12.

His prescription is completely different than mine. He wouldn’t be able to see properly out of my eye glasses, nor would I from his. Our vision is not the same.

It’s a funny way of looking at things (no pun intended), but the fact is, we see things differently.

The irony of 2020 is that I started out with self prescribed “perfect vision”.

I have a photo to prove it (see pages 7-10). I thought I had clarity, focus, perspective, and like most years, a list of intentions and plans for the days ahead. Then a fog rolled in. A dense fog mid March, clouding my sightlines and pathways. Even the strongest pair of prescription eye glasses would have had trouble seeing through it.

There is such truth to the phrase, hindsight is 20/20. Looking back on the year, I see things so much clearer, but the experiences, growth, resilience and adaptability allowed me to do so, not my glasses. We’re sharing our team 2020 hindsights in comparison to our intentions, as I believe reflections have power and purpose in ultimately being better people. As we begin a New Year, we have open minds, open hearts, fresh eyes and a deeper passion for what we do; designing homes people feel good in.

From a new approach to our staff picks (pgs. 11-18), to our thoughts on this year’s design forecast (pgs. 51& 52), we’ve got a packed issue. We’re also excited to add a travel component to our lookbook this year. Near and far, we’ll be virtually escaping within these pages and whether we can get away or not right now, let’s dream and be inspired together. First stop, the hamlet of Bragg Creek, Alberta and a charming Airbnb to cozy up in.

Welcome to the first issue of our third volume of NFDI Style. We’re so happy to have you here. We hope you enjoy the content of these pages, as much as we’ve enjoyed creating them.

Nyla www.nylafreedesigns.com | @nylafreedesigns

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TABLE OF

Contents

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.07 HINDSIGHT IS 20/20 .11 IF NFDI WERE A STUDY

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.19 NFDI ELBOW PARK LUXE .40 BULLET JOURNALING 101 .43 BRAGG CREEK CABIN .51 2021 DESIGN FORECAST .53 FIG & PROSCIUTTO RECIPE .57 NFDI COLOUR STORY

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Winter 2021

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND! OUR BLACK LADDERS HAVE BEEN RESTOCKED! CHECK OUT THE SHOP TO PURCHASE YOURS!

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“Winter is the time for comfort, for good food and warmth, for the touch of a friendly hand and for a talk beside the fire: it is the time for home. “

Edith Sitwell

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HINDSIGHT IS 20/20 January 01, 2020 “You could say we’ve got 20/20 vision as we move into a new year!

With all that we learned and loved in 2019, we are so grateful to have clarity going into a new year, and a new decade. New goals, new intentions, new hopes and dreams, all before us.

Even though there will be challenges and obstacles ahead, with uneven roads and sharp turns, we’re confident and equipped with a solid foundation of process, a strong team and an unwavering value system. We’re excited to journey the paths ahead and celebrate all that 2020 has in store. “

January 01, 2021 After the rollercoaster of 2020, we’re so grateful to have a renewed perspective going into a New Year. We have new intentions, hopes and dreams, but also a recognition of what we’ve learned from an extraordinary year, all before us.

Looking back, we navigated the challenges and obstacles, the uneven roads and sharp turns with resilience and grace as best we could. Most of us had never heard of Zoom before April of last year! We’re more confident and better equipped with a solid foundation of process, a stronger team and an unwavering value system. We’re ready to journey the paths ahead and celebrate all that 2021 has in store.

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NYLA

2020 humbled me. It reminded me I can only control so much, and brought me back to some of the tried and true basics of life. Of course they came in a far different way than I could have imagined, but that’s what life is all about isn’t it? We can only plan so much before we’re taken down a different path unexpectedly, and need to shift gears.

I didn’t hate 2020. It wasn’t a great year but there was a lot of good in it, and for that I’m thankful. My intentions for the year were; more family time, getting back to basics, recognizing what’s manageable and enjoying simple pleasures, all of which I was granted, just in a completely different way. While I began the year feeling like the world was already complicated, I had no idea the complications that would come my way. Everything required thought.

Everything was a calculated decision and discussion as to what was the right thing to do, right place to go or how we were going to do it safely. All of this both from a personal AND professional perspective. It was exhausting.

With this extraordinary year now behind us, I certainly have a new perspective as to what’s important and where I’m going to put my energy. I continue to learn everyday and I expect 2021 to be no different. So here’s to a fresh start, and embracing all that lies ahead with grit and grace.

ANA

My intentions for 2020 and our plans for the year definitely were changed - our big trip to Peru was cancelled, and celebrating my husband’s 50th looked much different than intended. Cancelling Peru was heartbreaking. We were so excited to spend quality time with our soccer team members and families. For over 2 years we all worked so hard to save, fundraise and plan. (I believe we had approximately 12 families going.) More gatherings with family and friends did not happen in person, but did through other means, and reached more family and friends than I thought.

I got to know them all over again. Clean eating, not so much. My father moved in with us during the lockdown and cooked absolutely delicious food, however it was not so waistline-friendly. But I was so happy not to have to plan meals and/or cook. I’m so thankful for the extra time I got to spend with my husband and girls - they’re amazing humans.

Though I was disappointed, frustrated and angry at times, some very good unexpected things came out of 2020: • I got to know my friends and family on different levels.

• I learned to be more patient, more open to different points of view, and not to be so quick to judge.

• I learned I work better away from home.

ALEX

What a year! To say the least, 2020 has not been what we expected. It’s been a year of ups and downs, uncertainties and challenges. It’s forced us to slow down, adapt, and appreciate the little things.

When I look back at my 2020 intentions I have to laugh to myself. I had big plans for travelling internationally and spending more time with family and friends. While the international travel was quickly kyboshed, I did find more opportunities to travel within our borders and appreciate what our beautiful country has to offer! And, while I didn’t necessarily see my friends and family more in person, we found new ways to stay connected and in touch on a regular basis.

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BRIANNA

Wow, well what can I say. 2020 you were a piece of work! What started off as a bit of a WTH kind of year, transitioned into one of reflection, personal growth, a time to revisit passions, and more time to be with those I love. If you told me back in January 2020 while I was writing my intentions of the events that were going to unfold, I hands down would have thought you were insane. My intentions to embrace change were really put to the test this year, and while maybe not so welcome at first, they were eventually greeted with an open mind. 2020 also had me checking off a few small house projects, including a kitchen refresh and pergola for our back deck! Though it wasn’t even close to the 2020 I was hoping for, I love seeing how far I’ve come as a result of this whirlwind year. I’m excited to see what 2021 has in store, and to keep on the path of embracing new changes!

JAC KIE

To be cliche now and say that 2020 has not been what we expected is an understatement. Cliche, no? From starting the year off with cross-country and international travel, to crossing my fingers we could get a camp spot during the summer in our own province, we’ve fully flipped the script of how we live our lives. Looking back at how I saw 2020 rolling out, my intentions weren’t too far off with the obvious societal ban on travel and spending more time with family and friends. Suffice to say, I intended to slow down in life, and in fact the opposite happened! Our studio continued full steam ahead despite El Corona virus. With more time spent at home, inspiration and ideas were slowly percolating over the months with a “honey-do list” (in the words of one of our favorite clients) as long as quarantine.

And despite not “seeing” family and friends as much as I had planned, funnily enough I feel we are all closer in a sense, and I have even managed to connect with some newfound friends via online platforms. Despite many of the pitfalls and hardships many of us have faced over the past 8 months, I can’t help but be grateful for the clarity it has given me in my life - I don’t think I would have grown both personally and professionally without the quote-unquote “chaos” that ensued from COVID. Heading into 2021, I plan on keeping with my newfound perspective on values and what is important, and not taking things for granted, like going to the Italian market whenever I want for some fresh mozz and prosciutto or seeing my people. I will also endeavor to challenge myself creatively to make our clients’ homes unique and special, and to bring them a fresh perspective not found on your typical Instagram feed. Here’s to 2021 with positivity and cute masks!

KERST IN

I entered 2020 yearning for more downtime in which to pursue my multitude of hobbies, and to get my home organized and updated. Well, it looks like I got my wish. Not in a way I would ever want, but I guess it was a silver lining. I did make progress on all of those fronts, and would have appreciated even more time to myself. It’s not a new discovery, but I am content being a homebody. I am never, ever, ever bored, and always have more creative ideas than I have time for. There were happy occasions despite the pandemic. I got to attend my brother’s beautiful outdoor wedding with 14 other people, and finally gained a sister(in-law)! And while we didn’t get to travel to the States in the summer as we usually do, we had two lovely trips right here in Canada. (Fairmont and Medicine Hat, I’m talking to you!)

Looking ahead to 2021, I have learned from 2020 to never take anything for granted. Hence, I enter this new year with no expectations - of myself or of the world - whatsoever. Come what may, I will deal with it in the moment.

Hopefully with grace and gratitude.

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IF NF DI WERE A

Study [stuhd-ee] noun

A building or room devoted to literary pursuits.

Get to know team NFDI by way of our personal design aesthetics. This issue, we’ve each designed a STUDY to reflect our style, experience, wishes and dreams of what a study space might look like if we had the opportunity to design one for ourselves.

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NYLA A ROOM WITH A VIEW

I once sat at a small wooden desk, with windows all around and a view of the Venice canals in California. It was picturesque and productive. I dream of having that feeling again.

This space is designed to be an extension of our recently completed renovation, however I imagine a lovely view out the window, preferably of water. With a calm colour palette and a mix of traditional and modern design elements, I could spend all day and all night in this space, gathering inspiration, writing, designing and dreaming.

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KERST IN L U X E L I B R A RY

The Art Deco design of the Venice Simplon Orient-Express bar car was the inspiration for my study. The stylized rug establishes the design statement for the room. A moody colour palette of navy blue, black, and white creates a sophisticated cocoon. Details such as contrast piping on the upholstered pieces, and brass accents help make the study a luxurious space I can see myself reading or catching up on paperwork in. Whimsical elements such as the zebra print on the chairs, and the giraffe desk lamp impart a sense of fun, and keep it from feeling too serious.

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ALEX

BENJAMIN MOORE Southern Charm 1173

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THE BLUSH, THE BOLD & THE BEAUTIFUL A mix of modern, mid-century and sculptural pieces that encapsulate the essence of my style. This results in a space with movement and soul, that is colourful, curated, energizing and vibey.

ANA ST U D I O P O R T E N A

Much like the port town of Valparaiso, my hometown, this space is colourful, has history and a story to tell. I am very drawn to and inspired by the colours and culture of my Chilean heritage, and this space reflects that aspect of me. Laid back and comfortable with a touch of colour, flair and details for constant inspiration. Bold checkered tile flooring coupled with warm hues of oranges, purples and yellows. While I do love modern details, as well as up and coming trends, these elements are rooted in and paired with traditional details that keep me grounded.

Colourful sophistication!

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JAC KIE Q U I R KY B U S I N E SS

This space for me is a harmonious collection of odds and ends. Arising from a mix of pattern play, styles and things new and old, this study is warm and inviting, with a high dose of personality (have you met me?!). Influenced by my U.K + Scottish family roots, my study is representative of all those wonderful aspects of design, and brings a taste of what we don’t often see in Canadian interiors to my make-believe everyday study lol. If the quirk works, embrace it!

BENJAMIN MOORE Blue Stream 1668

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BENJAMIN MOORE Chantilly Lace OC-65

BRIANNA D A N DY S C A N D I

With a combination of contemporary and Scandinavian influence, my study is pretty representational of my overall design vibe! I naturally gravitate towards neutral tones, and while I love colour, I knew a more monochromatic scheme was the right direction for this space! Playing with texture, form and incorporating a few sculptural pieces, this is a space I’d love to spend hours in!

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NFDI

ELBOW PARKluxe

It was June 2013. I sat across the table from our client when the evacuation order came in as the flood waters rose. Promptly excusing herself from our meeting, she rushed home. No one could fathom the effects of what was to come.

With their main floor now two feet underwater, our client needed to find a new home fast. They were able to purchase something already under construction, just in time to make it their own.

We got to work honing in on their laid back luxe style. With wood panelling, a mix of warm and inviting materials such as walnut, silk, mohair, linen and natural stone, you can’t help but feel the depth and personality in this home.

With much of their previous furniture shockingly unscathed, or able to be restored after the flood, we had the opportunity to use most of it in their new home. It’s a testament to well-made, investment pieces as they have stood the test of time, a natural disaster, and are still as current today as they were then. Our clients have a deep trust and understanding of the design process, and this shows with the overall look and feel of their home.

Enjoy the tour!

P H O TO G R A P H Y: Phil Crozier

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INTERIOR DESIGN:

Nyla Free Designs

Cosmopolitan Collection | Naked ENGINEERED HARDWOOD CHEVRON & PLANKS Exclusive to

VISIT ONE OF OUR LOCATIONS

Ca lga ry | Va n c o u v e r | Ed mo n t o n | Ch ic ago d i v i n e f l o o r. c o m

BULLET

Journaling101

One of my creative outlets used to be scrapbooking. I loved the tactile, hands on aspect of creating layouts, incorporating photos and telling stories, not to mention all the beautiful paper! As my days got fuller and fuller with work, this art form died off. Our first daughter has books full of scrapbook memories. Our second daughter has a few pages. Typical.

T H I N G S TO J O U R N A L : • • • • • • • • •

To-do lists Feelings Goals Intentions Tracking fitness, water Quotes Encouragements Photos Doodles

In the early days of Covid I ordered a hand lettering book to explore a new creative outlet and I’m hooked.

I’ve always loved putting pen to paper. I prefer written lists, rather than digital. I prefer drawing and drafting by hand rather than on a computer program. Perhaps it’s my age, or perhaps it’s an innate sense of working with my hands.

With my love of writing, drawing, and list making, I’ve found a new creative outlet in bullet journaling which perfectly combines all of these.

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All you need is a notebook and a pen, and/or pencil. There’s nothing fancy about it. You can be as detailed, creative or simple as you would like. That’s the beauty of it. No right or wrong, no musts or have-to’s, it’s all about the words and details you want to put down on paper.

It slows me down, gives me the opportunity to be still while I write down my thoughts, or simply get lost in the movement of lettering.

On top of a notebook and pen, here is a list of other items to enhance your journaling but the reality is, the list of items to fill your journal is endless.

• Highlighters: I prefer the midliner style highlighters in an array of colours • Scissors • Washi Tape • Stamps • Stamp Pad • Craft Size Paint Brushes • Craft Paint • Images or Quotes That Inspire You

(These can be cut out from magazines or

printed off from Pinterest)

Creative outlets have been a form of therapy for me as of late, so I specifically created a page about how I was feeling at the start of January and I plan to do at least one per month. I love the idea of looking back over the year in this fashion. We have photos that pop up, playlists compiled for us and so many other “year in review” platforms. This one however, takes on an old school book-style format, and is in my mind, such a lovely way to look back on the feelings, experiences, and even the to-do’s of the moment, and touch each page, knowing you created it.

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BRAGG C REEK

Cabin

If you time it right, you’ll end up in a winter wonderland. A short, 40 minute drive from the city centre, Bragg Creek is a historical hamlet west of Calgary. Cozying up in a charming Airbnb is the perfect little getaway whether your style is staying in, or getting outside. Grab a pile of books, pack delicious food, pick up wine in town, and get ready to relax and unwind at Bragg Creek Cabin.

On Instagram: @braggcreekcabin Airbnb Listing: Riverside Bragg Creek Cabin

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@braggcreekcabin NFD I S t y l e

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THINGS TO DO IN & NEAR BRAGG CREEK: • Skating • Snowshoeing • Fat Biking • Cross Country Skiing • Winter Trails • Snowmobiling

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With it’s wood walls and ceilings, full kitchen, washer/ dryer, renovated bathrooms and a wood burning fireplace, this home is the perfect mix of modern amenities and nostalgia of days gone by.

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P L A C E S T O V I S I T: Cinnamon Spoon 1 White Ave, Bragg Creek Sugar Shake Bakery 16 White Ave #4, Bragg Creek Creekers Liquor 20 White Ave, Bragg Creek

@braggcreekcabin

Archer’s Antiques 24 White Crescent, Bragg Creek Preserved 7 Balsam Ave #228, Bragg Creek Moose Mountain General Store *cross country ski and snowshoe rentals 7 Balsam Ave Unit #200, Bragg Creek

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Situated along the Elbow River, with picturesque views and regular visits from furry friends, this is the perfect spot for a couples escape, family weekend, girls getaway or much like we did, a team bonding trip. All I can say is, I wish we could have stayed longer!

@braggcreekcabin NFD I S t y l e

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ALEX BROWN IS BACK

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FORECA

As we look ahead to a new year of design inspir aesthetics, and design details we feel w

NYLA

REEDED DETAILS

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BRIANNA NATURAL MATERIALS

NFDI

AST

ration we’re honing in on the will begin to make their mark.

JAC KIE

PAT T E R N E D S O FAS

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F IG & PROSC IUT TO

Morsels

Last year, Jackie introduced us to a delicious appetizer, we had to share. With only three ingredients, don’t let the simplicity fool you. It’s full of flavour and so easy to make. The hardest part will be finding the fresh figs!

W H AT YO U ’ L L N E E D : • Fresh Figs • Prosciutto • Blue Cheese

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1. Trim the top off the fig.

2. Cut into quarters.

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3. Cut prosciutto in half along the width.

4. Place 1 piece of fig on one half of the prosciutto.

5. Place the desired amount of blue cheese on top of the fig.

6. Wrap the prosciutto around the fig and cheese.

7. Secure with a toothpick.

8. Place in the oven at 450* for 8 minutes, turning halfway.

9. Remove from the oven and serve!

N O T E : the prosciutto and blue cheese are rich in flavour so no need to add salt. Add fresh cracked pepper to taste, if you prefer.

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I N S P I R E D B Y:

PANTONE

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Illuminating

Thank you!

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Thank you to Bragg Creek cabin for hosting us!

On Instagram: @braggcreekcabin Airbnb Listing: Riverside Bragg Creek Cabin

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

NFDI Style MagazineŠ2021 Nyla Free Designs Inc. All content created by Nyla Free Designs Inc.