Ottawa At Home | Winter 2020

HOMES

RETREAT REC H A R G E

DESIGN

LIVING

SHOPPING

FOOD

BED & BATH STYLE 2020 HOT SPOTS DINING + SHOPPING Ski Chalet Escapes Mont Tremblant Mont Ste-Marie

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WINTER 2020

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LIVING 36 BEAUTY Bathing to relax 39 FIT AT HOME How to meditate 40 PROFILE Getting to know a literary agent 42 NEW & NOTABLE New shopping experiences 44 STEP INSIDE A well-travelled life 46 NEIGHBOURHOOD ON THE MOVE Checking out Carleton Place 49 GIVING BACK Raising awareness of human trafficking

22

51 EVENTS The Vernissage

FOOD

56 6 EDITOR’S NOTE Retreat

HOME 10 DESIGNER AT HOME Designed for family living 14 SPOTLIGHT Compact Mont Tremblant ski chalet

53 FOOD THOUGHTS Tropical chia pudding 54 LET’S DISH Chef Ian Carswell 56 DINING OUT Hot new dining spots 61 PAULA’S BITES Seared scallops 64 FORWARD THINKING Vibrant florals

21 CAPITAL COLOURS Classic Blue 22 COVER RENOVATION Family living

6

28 ON TREND Luxury bathroom style 32 HOME STAGING Preparing for Airbnb rental 34 GOODNIGHT Decorating for a goodnight’s sleep

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COVER PHOTO BY MARK HOLLERON

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EDITOR’S NOTE

Retreat

In order to understand the world, one has to turn away from it on occasion.”

—ALBERT CAMUS

Winter can be a tad on the long side in Ottawa, but the beauty of this is the retreat aspect that frosty days offer. I always slow my pace down in the colder months and lead life a bit differently. Sometimes that means taking off to somewhere warm for a little while, but mostly it means retreating within myself to lead a quieter life—and I love that!

While I have been described as being an extrovert, those who know me best recognize my true introverted self. That means my recharging happens when I am left alone. During those quiet times, I’m able to step back and assess what needs to be done next in my life.

I tend to spend a lot more time indoors during the winter, and I am always in awe of families who pack up the car and head to the ski hill on a chilly weekend. Those people embrace snowy days by swooshing down the hill, and then enjoy their well-deserved après-ski life. In this issue, we step into two versions of weekend-getaway homes—a chic, compact condo in Mont Tremblant and a stylish family chalet at Mont Ste-Marie.

Both offer immense appeal for winter retreating and I could see myself curled up with a good book by the fire at either spot.

Reading is an important element of my quiet life. Turning the pages of a good book offers an escape and new perspectives on life. Typically, I think about books in terms of their entertainment value, but meeting literary agent Carly Watters has opened my eyes to the business side of books. As an avid reader, Carly offers up her top five books for 2020 reading.

Lianne Laing has awakened me to the merits of meditation. In her Fit At Home column, she gives us some tips and tools on getting started, with the message that it takes time and practice to truly quiet the mind and reap the benefits of mediation. To help you relax, Melissa Shabinsky offers up some quick solutions to creating a soothing bath experience, so you may want to start your calming process by running the water first.

May you find time to escape with our winter issue, which is packed full of the usual tips and inspirations, while also honouring the idea of taking time to step back and relax.

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SECTION Title

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Mary Taggart DESIGN & LAYOUT

AN Design Communications ASSOCIATE EDITOR

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Korey Kealey STYLE/BEAUTY CONTRIBUTOR

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HOME Designer At Home

“ I love to mix old and new in every space, such as traditional architecture with cleaner, more modern furniture.” Mandy Eustace

designed for living

BY MARY TAGGART PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK HOLLERON

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HOME Designer At Home

FACING PAGE (LEFT) THE TRADITIONAL DETAILS WERE PART OF THE INITIAL ATTRACTION TO THE HOME (BOTTOM) ROSEY THE KITTEN IS A PLAYFUL ELEMENT WITHIN THE HOUSEHOLD THIS PAGE (ABOVE) ANTIQUE AND CONTEMPORARY FURNISHINGS MIX THROUGHOUT THE HOME

M

andy Eustace started her design career at 22 as an intern for renowned Gluckstein Design in Toronto after studying interior design at Sheridan College. She has since spent her entire career working in the industry. Her focus is on residential projects and she is comfortable working in a variety of capacities, selecting everything from furnishings to fixtures for one room or an entire house.

But now, as a mother of three children, aged six, eight and ten, living in a pet-friendly home that includes Cash the dog and Rosie the kitten, Mandy has adopted a relaxed approach to decorating her own home.

PERSONAL STYLE Mixing elements is an important aspect of the designer’s work.

“I love to mix old and new in every space, such as traditional architecture with cleaner, more modern furniture,” says Mandy, who combines antiques and vintage art work with familyfriendly furnishings at home to honour her design aesthetic within a busy household.

The family home was built in 2011 and it was primarily finished when Mandy and her husband purchased it in 2014. All it needed at the time was a fresh coat of

paint, but they continued to add their own decorative touches to the traditional Georgian style architecture which had a great appeal to Mandy and offered the ideal backdrop for her to work with.

“We fell in love with the traditional elements that you don’t see in many homes, such as the extensive trim work, the divided windows, and the lovely glass transoms over the doors.” She also admits to “secretly loving” that the exterior looks like the house in Home Alone, referring to the 1990 comedy film.

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HOME Designer At Home

“ Designing with a family can seem like an impossibility, but it isn’t difficult to get the look you want…”

FAMILY FRIENDLY SPACE IS FOUND THROUGHOUT SO THAT GABRIEL (10), COLE (8), NORAH (6) AND CASH, THE FAMILY DOG, ALWAYS FEEL RIGHT AT HOME

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HOMES Designer At Home

DO IT FOR LOVE While Mandy gravitates towards a classic design style, she firmly believes in including items that you love without spending too much time making sure they fit with a certain style. “If you love something it will always make sense,” she states.

Her passion for honouring the family lifestyle is evident throughout her home.

One wall between the kitchen and living area is dedicated to family life, with a homework and organization station incorporated into the space to showcase her kids work and keep track of a busy schedule. The built-in area is both stylish and practical.

FAMILY FRIENDLY There are no out-of-bounds spaces for pets and kids within Mandy’s home, but careful consideration has been given to the fact that all areas of the home are well used. Mandy offers that, “Designing with a family can seem like an impossibility, but it isn’t difficult to get the look you want while accommodating all the members of your crew.”

The designer explains that today’s performance fabrics can make a big difference with plenty of easy-clean options.

When accessorizing, she understands that kids are curious and tries to place things out of reach to get the look while keeping her treasures safe. While some busy households worry about adding area rugs, Mandy believes in the power of a rug to pull a room together. She suggests going with a patterned Persian-style carpet, known for its durability for everyday wear and tear.

MANDY’S FAMILY-FRIENDLY DÉCOR TIPS • Have fun!

• Scatter sisal baskets for a stylish way to collect toys • Decorate areas that kids can’t reach, while keeping other spaces more neutral • Look for “performance fabrics” • Add patterned or synthetic area rugs for an easy-to-clean style that pulls the look together Contact: mandy@mandyeustacedesign.com

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HOME Spotlight

WHILE THE CONDO IS SMALL, THE LIVING SPACE IS PLENTIFUL

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HOME Spotlight

CUTE & COZY CONDO

BY JANE WHITING PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK HOLLERON

After renting ski chalets for many years at Mont Tremblant, an Ottawa family finally bought and renovated a compact condo in the popular alpine resort in Quebec.

Their newly renovated one-bedroom condo is a wonderful example of how 700 square feet of space can be efficiently utilized for maximum style and function.

It is the perfect retreat for a family of three avid snowboarders who spend every weekend at the hill experiencing the thrills of the snowparks and enjoying the buzz of social activity.

“When our son Griffin was in a snowboarding program, we had seasonal rentals for the winter,” says Jean Spicer.

“But they became difficult to find after online market sites made short-term

rentals more lucrative. For a while we were like weekend hobos, until the opportunity came up to buy this condo. The price was right and the carrying costs are not dissimilar to what we would pay for a seasonal rental.”

The transformation of the former rental unit in the pedestrian village was done in the spring last year, and Jean’s husband, Mike Beun, took on the renovation project himself. Mike owns Woodlawn Home Comfort, an expert HVAC service that specializes in high-quality fireplaces and heating systems, so he was well qualified for the job. With help from his older son, Burke Beun, who works in the family business, they gutted the interior and completed 90 per cent of the work in just one month.

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HOMES Spotlight

COMPACT CONDO SPACE Vaulted ceilings and tall, light-flooding windows help to make the compact, openconcept condo look and feel surprisingly spacious. “It’s positioned to run the length of the street, so we get more windows on the exterior wall, plus the bay window makes a huge difference for seating and it overlooks the village square,” explains Jean.

The layout of the unit also allowed room to install a murphy bed on the long wall in the dining area. It’s a smart, space-saving sleeping spot for 15-year-old Griffin, and gives his parents the comforts of a private bedroom tucked in behind two barn-style sliding doors. A three-seater, pull-out sofa bed provides extra space for overnight guests.

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HOME Spotlight

In the open-galley kitchen area, they opted for a clean, modern style with black IKEA cabinetry and a marbledquartz countertop in a waterfall design for the peninsula.

Although the bathroom has not been fully renovated yet, it is still spacious enough to fit a new stacked washer and dryer.

To stay true to the ambience of an alpine retreat, they kept the wood-burning fireplace and Mike upgraded its allure by adding a mantel of reclaimed wood. Taken from the floor boards of rail cars in France with the original bolt holes still exposed, the wood was also used for open shelving by the fireplace and for an entry closet. Together with the wire-brushed oak flooring, the wood elements add a warm, rustic feel to the condo’s light grey walls and neutral décor.

FACING PAGE (TOP) THE BEDROOM OFFERS VIEWS OF THE VILLAGE (BOTTOM) EVERY INCH OF SPACE HAS CLEVER PURPOSE THIS PAGE (ABOVE) SHELVING NEXT TO THE FIREPLACE IS IDEAL FOR GAME STORAGE (LEFT) KITCHEN STOOLS ARE FROM STRUCTUBE

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HOME Spotlight

Most of the furnishings were obtained locally. A big, solid coffee table was bought from MY Home in Kanata along with the customized sofa bed, and the round dining table comes from Structube. Mike sourced the barn-style doors from Home Depot, while Jean added some personal touches with two antique pieces passed down from her great-great-grandparents.

A brass wood bucket with ornate lionhead details and a little cow-hide upholstered footstool keep each other company by the fireside and hold fond memories of her McLachlan lumber family from Arnprior.

“It was amazing how quickly Mike finished this project—he found it very satisfying,” says Jean, who notes that they

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have done many renovations over the years, including their stunning family home in the rural west end of Ottawa. One of the many attractions of their all-season condo is the convenient underground parking. “Once we park the truck, we don’t have to drive it again while we are here, which is very different from our life at home in the country.”

In addition to the snowboarding and skiing trails, the whole family loves the social life at Mont Tremblant. “We are part of an active community and manage to host dinner parties in our condo—it has such a cozy charm to it,” says Jean, who adds that at the end of a lovely weekend, it’s also great to just lock it up and go home!

HOME Spotlight

FAR LEFT THE CHANDELIER IS FROM WAYFAIR, DINING TABLE AND CHAIRS FROM STRUCTUBE MIDDLE THE TWO WINDOW CHAIRS ARE FROM THE BAY RIGHT SPACE IS OPTIMIZED AND A SMALL NOOK EASILY SERVES AS A BAR READY FOR THE NEXT PARTY

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Family

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FRIENDLY

Just across the St. Lawrence River, in northern New York State, several fun and accessible family adventures are waiting.

Whether you use the Cornwall to Massena bridge or the one from Prescott to Ogdensburg—both lead to the foothills of the Adirondack Mountains—nearby St. Lawrence County NY is sprinkled with charming downtown areas that feature indoor and outdoor activities for families. An extensive allseason trail network can be discovered on an interactive site, www.STLCtrails.com The Nicandri Nature Center, located in Robert Moses State Park (Massena) has hiking, snowshoe and ski trails, interactive nature exhibits and programs including an aquarium and observatory; learn more at www.massenanaturecenter.com Be sure to check out Hawkins Point Visitors’ Center (Massena), a family-friendly venue that includes dozens of interactive exhibits on hydroelectric power production. For seasonal hours, visit www.nypa.gov/communities/visitors-centers/ hawkins-point The North Country Children’s Museum (Potsdam) is designed for children of all ages to play and learn. Find a variety of hands-on exhibits and play spaces; plan your trip by visiting www.northcountrychildrensmuseum.org In Potsdam or Canton, catch Division 1 college men’s and women’s hockey at St. Lawrence University or Clarkson University.

In March, area maple farms open their sugar shacks and woods for tours, pancake breakfasts and maple syrup tastings. Northern New York is one of the largest maple producers in the USA, and the tradition is strong throughout the area, with numerous locations eager to welcome visitors while the sap is running.

Find the Frederic Remington Art Museum just a few miles off the Prescott bridge (303 Washington St, Ogdensburg). The galleries at Kid’s Place feature interactive exhibits designed to capture children’s imaginations and expand their appreciation of art. To learn more, visit www.fredericremington.org

From the banks of the St. Lawrence River to the foothills of the Adirondacks, St. Lawrence County has a lot to offer for a day trip or weekend getaway. More information to plan your visit can be found at www.VisitSTLC.com

® I LOVE NEW YORK is a registered trademark and service mark of the New York State Department of Economic Development; used with permission.

HOME Capital Colours

BY MARY TAGGART instagram @maryktaggart twitter @ottawaathomemag

Classic Blue was named as the Pantone Colour of the Year for 2020 and it’s not hard to figure out why. Blue is a calming colour with great dignity and strength.

During tumultuous times blue has the power to calm while instilling confidence.

It’s an ideal choice in a teen bedroom.

Classic blue has strength and can easily blend with a variety of décor styles from contemporary to traditional. Blue mixes and matches well with other patterns and colours to make it versatile enough to withstand teen decorating whims.

BENJAMIN MOORE BLUE DANUBE

IKEA RÅSKOG UTILITY CART $39.99 WINTER 2020 ottawaathome.ca 21

SECTION Title

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HOME Renovation/Family Living

s 70REVIVAL

BY CHLOE GIRVAN twitter instagram @mom_interrupted PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK HOLLERON

Happy childhood memories of skiing at Mont Ste-Marie, Quebec, led one busy Ottawa couple to return years later with their own three children.

When a hillside chalet became available for rent or sale, the family quickly signed up to become its annual tenants.

Cozy evenings spent around the chalet’s three-story stone fireplace led to dreams of ownership and last year, after deeming it to be a solid investment, the family decided to purchase their weekend escape.

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SECTION Title Knowing that an extensive renovation would be the next step, the couple felt confident that years spent as renters, familiarizing themselves with the property, would prevent the discovery of unpleasant structural surprises.

With designs on creating an open and bright weekend retreat, the pair were also mindful of preserving the historic elements of the chalet which gave it warmth and character.

Designer Sarah Taggart of Vogt Design called the architectural design of the chalet, built in 1972, “way ahead of its time.” Together they established goals of highlighting its incredible design features and complementing the original finishes, while making the space more modern and functional.

After bringing on Shawn Chamberlain of CSC Construction Renovation, work commenced in September with the removal of a large wall separating the kitchen and great room. Large windows framing the main floor were replaced with panes that can be opened to welcome a cross-breeze in warmer months. Tired floors now boast rustic pine, stained to look distressed, and sourced from a local mill.

The brand-new kitchen, featuring fresh white cabinets and gleaming countertops, leads to a stately table as, “life at Mont SteMarie is all about entertaining friends and family,” affirms the couple. Views from the kitchen and table now include the stone fireplace and impressive vaulted ceilings of original Western Red Cedar.

THIS PAGE (ABOVE) THE KITCHEN IS FROM MUSKOKA; CHAIRS AND STOOLS ARE FROM RESTORATION HARDWARE FACING PAGE (LEFT) A FORMER OFFICE IS TRANSFORMED INTO A BAR AREA (RIGHT) THE DINING TABLE IS FROM MY HOME FURNITURE

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HOME Renovation/Family Living

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HOMES Renovation/Family Living

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HOME Renovation/Family Living FAR LEFT LIGHTING IS FROM THE ELECTRICAL & PLUMBING STORE; COFFEE TABLE WAS CUSTOM MADE BY MIKE HILCHIE LEFT (TOP) SOFA’S FROM CADIEUX INTERIORS LEFT (BOTTOM) NEUTRAL BEDDING IS DRESSED IN STYLE WITH FAUX FUR PILLOWS

A former office space, tucked into the opposite side of the fireplace, has been transformed into a functional bar offering drinks, snacks, storage and a reduction in kitchen traffic. Glowing light fixtures, from the Electrical and Plumbing Store, add to the desired industrial farmhouse feel.

According to Sarah, all of the new finishes, such as barnboard beams, flooring and slate, were thoughtfully selected to have rustic, organic imperfections. “Even the porcelain tiles and hardware were chosen to have a handmade quality. We didn’t want anything to feel too shiny and new.”

Renovations to the chalet’s four bedrooms included replacing traditional built-in bunks with comfortable beds dressed in plush bedding. In order to create two full bathrooms, a seventiesstyle sauna was removed to make way for a generous shower and stackable laundry. Highly durable laminate flooring installed in the basement greets returning skiers and completes an entertainment and recreation space perfectly suited to younger family members and their visitors.

Explaining that the chalet was not purchased to be the family’s primary residence, Sarah and her clients decided to go with a, high-low concept when selecting furniture. “Some items are investment pieces while others are budget conscious. All of the furniture was thoughtfully selected to stand the test of time in both function and style with the soft furnishings done in a simple and classic colour scheme of black, grey, white and blue.”

When it came time to decorate, Sarah says that it was important not to choose décor limited to one season. “To set the tone for the winter months, we have layered the sofas, chairs and bedding with faux fur, wool, and chunky knits. These accessories can be easily swapped out and lightened up with soft linens for the spring or summer months.”

Stopping in to visit the family following their first nights in their newly renovated chalet reveals a beautiful space bursting at the seams with happiness, laughter, family and friendship. And Sarah is happy too.

“I love how bright it is now. Even with all the natural light and large windows, it was very dark before the renovation. Now it is so bright and warm.”

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uxury L HOME Bath Trends

PERSONAL

BY HOLLIE GRACE JAMES PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK HOLLERON

Y

ou may not have access to panoramic ocean views or cityscapes, but that doesn’t mean your bathroom can’t be the one secluded space in your home to seek out when you’re craving the utmost in rest and relaxation.

As bathrooms transform into places of luxury and sanctuary, there are some details that can make all the difference when designing and executing the bathroom of your dreams. When creating the ensuite bathroom for the 2019 CHEO dream home, Ottawa interior designer Tanya Collins was aiming for understated elegance. But she asserts that it doesn’t necessarily have to be expensive, it simply has to look that way.

CHEO BATHROOM With an aesthetic of coastal luxury, the CHEO dream home exudes beach vibes without getting trapped in an excessively kitschy feel. “The whole look of the house is a coastal palette. It’s very fresh with light colors,” says Tanya, who adds that bringing marble and bling into the ensuite bathroom takes it from standard to luxurious.

“We used a porcelain that looks like marble. What is impressive is that we used 4 by 8 foot slabs of tile for the walls that surrounded the whole bathroom. It’s a very luxurious look when you wrap walls in marble, plus there are very few grout lines.” However, Tanya warns that although she cut costs by substituting porcelain for marble, there is a labor cost to installing such large tiles and this job took four men to haul and install.

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HOME Bath Trends

Floating TUB WINTER 2020 ottawaathome.ca  29

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Tanya further explains that you can elevate your bathroom’s atmosphere simply by upgrading the lighting.

“Around the mirror of the vanity I used sconce lighting in a satin-gold finish.

Then I used a chandelier pendant centered over the freestanding tub that mimicked the same material used in the sconce lighting.”

In order to enhance a bathroom’s functionality and elegance, she notes that a vanity is essential. “This vanity is completely custom; I designed it to look a little more classic. It’s a blue-gray color and I added some crystal knobs with gold backing.”

For the fixtures, Tanya explains that she made things interesting by mixing metals. “In this bathroom there are chrome faucets mixed with gold finishings. The tile I selected had warm and cool tones, so that’s why the mixture of metals is successful.” With both a free standing tub and an oversized custom glass shower, a quick scrub or a long and soothing soak are both feasible.

The aesthetic of the bathroom is so important says Tanya. “People’s lives can be pretty stressful and hectic and I think they’re looking to their homes in general, and of course bathrooms, to unwind and relax. They want all the bells and whistles you might have in a luxury hotel, but with more of a personal touch.”

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HOME Bath Trends

WHAT’S HOT NOW Nathan Kyle, senior designer at Astro Design Centre, says that typically luxury bathrooms are synonymous with honest materials, “like marble being true and natural stones being true.” However, he adds that material like true brass and gun metal can get quite expensive. So, for a luxury bathroom look on a conventional bathroom budget, Nathan suggests substituting materials that “look like the real deal but are, in honesty, simply a good imitation.”

According to Nathan, this could look like porcelain that imitates marble, plus it has a virtually zero maintenance factor to it, unlike marble. He also advises bringing in decorative lighting, such as wall sconces that are more typically seen in a dining room.

“Taking away the utilitarian aspects of what a bathroom normally looks like ups the ante on that luxury side of things,” says Nathan, who is also seeing bathrooms with more furniture pieces. “The trend is going back to decorative vessels for sinks. For the longest time people were stepping away from this, but it’s surging back into being included in master bathrooms.”

Nathan states that they’re seeing more people who want to be proud of the spaces in their home, and are willing to spend that money on something that gives them the necessary aesthetic. “The bathroom is a sanctuary—a home spa in fact. They get to enjoy it and are not just doing it for resale.”

Gold

FIX TURE S

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HOME Home Staging

Eye-

CATCHING

BY DANI-ELLE DUBÉ twitterinstagram @danidmedia

S

o you want to make a little extra money listing your abode on a homestay or short-term rental marketplace online like Airbnb. It seems like everyone else is doing it, so why can’t you?

But with 4,500 other property and room listings in the Ottawa area available on one website alone, what chance would yours have at generating interest? How would your listing even stand out?

Enter Trista Lynch-Black, owner of Red Door Interiors. She is a home stager whose bibbidi-bobbidi-boo skills will make your rental pop from the page and attract guests. Trista started her company

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in 2010 and has been offering homestay and short-term rental staging services for over three years. Despite looming changes to Ottawa’s short-term rental rules, she says her services have never been more in demand.

Online homestay and short-term rental networks have come a long way over the years. Gone are the days of simply listing your couch or room for rent on a website with a quick description and price tag for wandering nomads. Today, it’s a competitive market with a seemingly endless menu of options where renters can choose listings based on location, type of property, or even design concept.

Ottawa listings on Airbnb, for example, have seen about 258,000 guest arrivals staying an average of 3.6 nights at a rate of $104 a night in a one-year period from October 1, 2018 to 2019.

So if owners want their listing to be successful and make money in today’s fierce market, Trista advises that it is all about appealability.

“I call it adding luxe to your property,” says Trista, who explains that luxe does not only apply to staging with a modern design. “If it’s a character home, you can add a beautiful area rug and you can have a feature wall with some antique pieces.”

By putting in that extra bit of effort (and being truthful in their representation), Airbnb Canada spokesperson Lindsey Scully says owners will see several benefits.

HOMES Home Staging “Airbnb is an online platform and the first thing people see when they’re searching for a property is pictures,” Lindsey explains. “So, a well-designed space is going to catch people’s eye. That can result in better search results and more bookings.”

Staging also allows owners to be more competitive and potentially increase their rental rate—and the more responses and positive feedback owners get from renters, the more they’re rewarded with certain Airbnb perks like being a part of Airbnb Plus.

According to Lindsey, Airbnb Plus properties—which come with a purple tag on the listing—are known to have thoughtful designs, exceptional quality and a certain set of amenities that are guaranteed. To be part of the Plus program, property owners must be invited

by Airbnb and meet “Superhost-level” hospitality standards.

But Trista knows that sometimes property owners need help. Either they don’t know where to start, don’t have the time, or aren’t sure how to step away and de-personalize their space.

Staging doesn’t have to be a big undertaking; it can be as simple as adding a few touches or cleaning up clutter—it just depends on how far owners are willing to go. That’s why Trista offers services as basic as a consultation, all the way up to carte-blanche services that involve fullstaging services.

The trick is keeping design concepts simple and functional, and keeping design elements to a minimum. That means if you’re going for the popular rusticchic concept, for example, don’t overdo it—too much of something can actually make a space feel cold or noisy. Pinterest (although it can be a rabbit hole) is a good place to start for inspiration, notes Trista.

There’s so much competition out there right now,” says Trista. “So you have to think about what will make an individual’s property stand out.” She mentions thoughtful touches that make renters feel at home such as providing bath products to guests; a guestbook for renters to provide feedback; and a mini travel guide that includes local hotspots, directions and attraction suggestions.

Because, really, there’s no place like home!

PICTURED: TRISTA LYNCH-BLACK PHOTO BY MARK HOLLERON WINTER 2020 ottawaathome.ca 33

WALL COLOUR: BENJAMIN MOORE “CRYSTALLINE”

Sleep

BY MARY TAGGART

T

he bedroom has become one of the most respected rooms in the house.

As the need to recharge takes on new meaning in a world fueled by charged devices, having a room designated for rest and refuge is increasingly important.

The Mayo Clinic states that adults need seven to nine hours sleep per night, and that doesn’t mean light napping; it’s all about high-quality sleep of extended hours without interruption. And it’s likely that you’re not getting that.

There are number of ways you can help with this, starting with loving the room you’re in. Make sure the décor and overall aesthetic appeal to your personal style.

The bedroom isn’t a place to implement décor changes to keep up with trends.

It’s the most personal space in the home.

Make sure this room feels welcoming each time you walk through the door.

Personalizing the space with mementos from vacations and fond memories of good times will create an uplifting environment, so go ahead, top a table with a trinket or two and display framed family photos. These things will lift spirits and transport you to happy times. But, be cautious about cluttering the space. Over accessorizing will create a chaotic feeling which can be disruptive to sleep.

LEFT BENJAMIN MOORE “OXFORD GRAY” IS AN ELEGANT COLOUR CHOICE RIGHT SHERWIN WILLIAMS “BROCCOFLOWER” IS A SOOTHING GREEN TONE

34 ottawaathome.ca WINTER 2020

HOME Goodnight

Well

Maintaining a clutter-free bedroom might be challenging when space is limited, but ending the day or even escaping mid-day for quiet time in a well-organized space can go a long way to encouraging a restful sleep. Look for creative storage solutions, like under bed containers and woven baskets to stash excess belongings. A functional bedside table is a necessity; keep it well stocked with a selection of reading materials that include short stories and magazines for a quick read before bedtime.

Take careful consideration of the paint colours you pick for your bedroom. Choosing a colour that soothes, rather than excites you, is essential. Blue and green are two of the best choices. Blue is a cool, yet calming colour, and green has fresh-air qualities that breathe life into a space while also creating a peaceful essence within the room. For a more sophisticated look, consider painting a grey shade with hints of blue.

Bedding is the icing on the cake. Don’t skimp on inexpensive sheets and comforters.

High-quality, natural fibres will feel better and offer up an improved sleep. Spending money on quality bedding is well worth the expense when you emerge each day feeling refreshed and ready to tackle what’s in front of you.

1. FRIDA TWO-DRAWER NIGHTSTAND IN NATURAL WALNUT WITH MARBLE TOP; $1,435, CADIEUX INTERIORS 2. BROOKESTONE® SLEEP SOUND MIXER, $159, BED BATH & BEYOND 3. SLIPSILK SLEEP MASK, $70, NORDSTROM

2

3

1 WINTER 2020 ottawaathome.ca 35

Salt LIVING B eauty

Earth

of the

BY MELISSA SHABINSKY

36 ottawaathome.ca WINTER 2020

@melissashabinsky

S

imple at-home, self-care treatments are not to be taken with a grain—but rather—a cup of salt!

(Chemically speaking, Epsom salt is magnesium sulfate which, when it hits water, breaks down to give magnesium and sulfate ions.)

Not only is it believed that Epsom salt baths can help to increase your magnesium levels, but Epsom salt also boasts a bevy of beauty benefits. It can help soothe muscle pain and aches; provide relief from sunburn and poison ivy; help reduce inflammation; improve circulation; relieve stress and calm skin disorders including acne, rosacea and eczema. Some people even find that it works as a sleep aid, and may help reduce bloating since it works to reduce inflammation.

Whether you use the salts to soak, scrub, soothe or smooth, this all-natural compound is truly beauty’s salt of the earth.

LIVING Beauty

SALT WATER SOAK One cup of Epsom salt can transform your bath water into an instant wellness experience. Not only does it help your body to absorb the magnesium, but a 12-minute soak can also relieve minor aches and pains and soothe sore muscles. Take it up a notch by adding a few tablespoons of oil (I like almond or jojoba oil) and a few drops of essential oil (like lavender or eucalyptus) for the ultimate spa-worthy soak.

RUB SOME SALT INTO IT Slough away dry winter skin with this easy scrub. Simply combine a cup of Epsom salt with 1/2 cup of coconut oil (olive or almond oil work too) and a few drops of essential oil. Before or after you shower, rub the the coarse crystal mixture into your skin. Rinse and follow with a moisturizer. Store in an airtight container.

CELLULITE BUSTER Tackle cellulite by combining Epsom salt, oil and coffee grounds into a paste and rub into skin before your shower. The caffeine is said to help boost circulation and minimize the appearance of cellulite.

SALT BOMBS This is a fun DIY project to keep in a jar by your bath or give as a gift.

Combine 1 cup Epsom salt with 1/3 cup baking soda, 2 tablespoons of cream of tartar, 1/4 cup melted coconut oil and 10–12 drops of essential oil (lavender, eucalyptus, rose and orange all work beautifully). Blend dry ingredients in a mixing bowl then pour the coconut oil over and blend until combined. Next, add essential oils.

For variations add lavender or dried rose petals. Spoon the mixture into silicone molds and pack firmly. Let dry for 6–8 hours then remove from the molds and store in a jar or sealed bag.

WINTER 2020 ottawaathome.ca 37

MODEL HOME TOUR

UPGRADE YOUR LIFE

Calming Noise

LIVING Fit At Home

THE

BY LIANNE LAING twitter instagram @liannelaing

“

Q

uiet the mind and the soul will speak,” is a quote from Ma Jaya Sati Bhagavati, as she promotes the practice of meditation. Many of us struggle to do this at any point during the day and often lay awake at night, unable to calm ourselves from the inner dialogue casting doubts and throwing out judgment.

The old Zen quote from Dr. Sukhraj Dhillon tells us, “You should sit in meditation for twenty minutes every day—unless you are too busy, then you should sit for an hour.” It’s realizing just how much noise the mind is making that becomes your turning point, and knowing you can learn to let the thoughts and the emotions pass. You can value the impact stillness can have on one’s life.

There are a few ways to define meditation but perhaps the simplest is expressed by best-selling author Gabby Bernstein: “Meditation is a practice that trains your mind.” Think of it as exercise for your brain. There are also several ways to do it and some have a more spiritual base than others.

IN PRACTICE • Mindfulness meditation often involves paying attention to your breath, your physical sensations and your environment. When your mind wanders, you gently bring it back to the present.

• Transcendental Meditation is practiced twice a day for 20 minutes. During this time, you sit comfortably with your eyes closed and silently repeat a mantra.

• Kundalini meditation uses mantras, breath work, mudras (hand positions) and even physical movements.

• Guided meditations are great for both beginner and experienced meditators.

During a guided meditation, a teacher guides you (in person or via audio or video) through a practice.

IN THEORY Mindfulness teacher Jennifer Innes, the Founder of Ottawa Meditation & Wellness, explains the following: “To get the great benefits from mindfulness and meditation you need to practice consistently. It’s no different than the consistent effort needed in other areas where we want to develop and grow. A skilled meditation teacher will have the ability to properly guide and support students toward greater understanding of their own experience.”

There are also some useful meditation apps to get people started which offer lessons, guidance and reminders for daily practice. Headspace, Calm and Ten Percent Happier are well-recognized apps with guided meditations.

There is no right or wrong way to meditate, but there are tools to help like meditation cushions, scents, beads and singing bowls.

Technology is also part of the meditation practice now with a device called Muse (The Brain Sensing Headband). It uses advanced signal processing to interpret your mental activity to help guide you.

WINTER 2020 ottawaathome.ca 39

LIVING P rofile

M

Books

The

BUSINESS of

BY MARY TAGGART PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK HOLLERON

40 ottawaathome.ca WINTER 2020

ost of us pick up a book, check out the jacket cover, and read a few pages to decide if it’s something that will capture our attention or not. When we find one that really draws us in, we can’t wait to discuss it in book groups, on social media, or just in casual conversation.

Reading offers an escape from the everyday, and for readers there is little to no thought about anything beyond the words inside the pages. However, books are a business just like any other product and one of the biggest influencers on the business side of reading is the literary agent.

Carly Watters, a 32-year-old mother of one and expecting a second child in February, has always had a passion for books. She reads about 20 published books per year, just for pleasure, and then another few hundred for work. Her mother was a librarian and implanted a love for reading in Carly at a young age. While in school, working on her BA in English at Queen’s University, Carly started to wonder about how a book was made. This led her to grad school at City University in London, England where she received an MA in Publishing Studies. Today, Carly is a top literary agent with P.S. Literary Agency, based in Toronto, with some big names in her roster.

A literary agent’s greatest challenge is finding a book that will make an impact on the market. Just as with any form of popculture, trends influence readers. That may come through the look of the cover design or a twitter-trending news topic.

Book trends aren’t always easy to predict.

Carly, who gets pitched approximately 10,000 projects each year (from which she requests about 3–400 manuscripts), says that more significant than being on trend is to be “the book that starts the trend just because it’s a phenomenal read and it’s unique—the copycats come after that.”

LIVING P rofile

CARLY’S DÉCOR REFLECTS HER PASSION FOR BOOKS

Carly likens her job to a talent agent for authors. “I discover the writers—often via conferences, query letters or referrals— develop their ideas with them, sell the books to publishers, negotiate the deal, sell the TV/film rights, and help manage their careers for the long-term,” she states.

While she works from home, her job takes her around the globe a few times a year. Toronto, New York, Los Angeles and London all factor into the job of an agent and Carly spends time in each city as she pitches, negotiates and works out deals with major publishing companies on behalf of her clients.

From her home in Kanata, Carly manages an impressive client list. It includes authors Jay Onrait, from TSN (Anchorboy and Number Two), national bestseller Glendy Vanderah (Where the Forest Meets the Stars), along with Christina McDonald (The Night Olivia Fell) which has been optioned for TV by a major studio. Carly is credited with discovering acclaimed author Taylor Jenkins Reid, whose first book Forever, Interrupted went on to sell in 14 languages

and launched the author’s highly successful career.

Working from home offers the luxury of picking and choosing your hours, but for Carly they have to be organized around getting a two-year-old to daycare in the mornings and gearing up for her family’s return at the end of the day. Her office is within her laptop, which means she can work from any platform in the house or even pop into a coffee shop for a change of scenery. Morning Owl and Thirsty Maiden in Kanata are regular haunts. The fact that Ottawa has an international airport, lowtraffic congestion in comparison to other major cities, and is more affordable and family friendly, makes living and working in the capital very appealing.

Carly takes full advantage of all that Ottawa offers, from the museums and libraries to festivals and abundant children’s activities, but does acknowledge that winter takes some getting used to and she misses being near her favourite stores.

But for now, the dynamic agent and busy mom is fully committed to serving her clients from Canada’s capital city.

CARLY WATTERS MUST-READ BOOKS FOR 2020: Where the Forest Meets the Stars

by Glendy Vanderah More Than Enough

by Elaine Welteroth Invisible Women

by Caroline Criado Perez Trick Mirror

by Jia Tolentino The Most Fun We Ever Had

by Claire Lombardo

WINTER 2020 ottawaathome.ca 41

LIVING N ew & Notable

Eat, Shop &

BY SANDY CONNELL PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK HOLLERON

Be Happy!

FINE FOODS Jacobsons have opened a new, custom-designed gourmet food shop at 103 Beechwood Ave, just a few short blocks from their original red-brick location in the heart of New Edinburgh. Serving the Ottawa community for nearly 15 years, Jacobsons specializes in award-winning cheeses and specialty grocery products sourced from artisans, both locally and from around the world.

Susan Jacobson and her daughter Dominique have meticulously curated a collection of fine foods and gifts, and take great pride in sharing these products and stories with their clientele. The new space pays homage to many of the unique qualities that Jacobsons is known for— incredible products, friendly service, personalized gifts and strong ties to the local community. The store offers a spectacular cheese counter, an antipasti bar, and a stunning patisserie, chocolate and bakery counter.

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LIVING New & Notable

GOOD DESIGN Uproar Interiors, responsible for creating beautiful and classic Ottawa interiors for the past 20 years, has moved across the street to 1116 Wellington Street West in Hintonburg.

Owner Janise Saikaley is considered one of the top colour specialists in the city and is a long-time retailer of Farrow & Ball paint and paper. The new space offers a high-end boutique feel with a focus on local craftsmen making well-made, functional furnishings. Janise continues to work closely with clients to address their interior design and décor needs from paint colours and exclusive wallpaper to custom draperies, reupholstering and furniture.

FRESH START Blumenstudio has relocated from its long-time location on Parkdale Ave to 1395 Wellington Street West, just east of Island Park Drive. Kat Kosk, owner of this beautiful boutique flower shop and café, is an experienced floral designer originally from Germany.

Hand tied bouquets, planter arrangements, events, workshops, design shows and weddings are all available at Blumenstudio which prides itself on quality and pure clean designs. Kat’s delicious coffee is one of the shop’s best kept secrets and you can’t beat the ambience to relax and enjoy a cup. The new location represents a new chapter for Kat who believes, “A book has chapters and so does life—this is a new chapter and I’m hopeful about where this chapter will take me!”

WINTER 2020 ottawaathome.ca 43

L L WE

D E L L E V A T R ODY C A R ERON VE OLL BY H K R Y MA B O T PHO

44  ottawaathome.ca WINTER 2020

LIVING Step Inside

D

ebra Jean Pehringer, wife of the Austrian Ambassador to Canada, Dr. Stefan Pehringer, is a perfectionist and planner whose academic studies focussed on languages, social sciences and the law. From an early age, she had a wanderlust that over the years has led her to 64 countries.

During her travels, she met extraordinary people who became friends and extended family; she claims many adventures along the way. These include meeting Jack Nicholson when attending New York University and living in the 5th Avenue building where As Good as It Gets was being filmed, as well as being a beauty pageant winner and more.

While interning at the United Nations and attending NYU for international legal studies, Debra Jean walked into the law firm Baker McKenzie with no appointment and walked out with her first job as a lawyer, based in Thailand. In Bangkok she was kidnapped by a tour guide and then escaped from an engagement party, which turned out to be for her.

Debra Jean serendipitously met her husband in Vienna in 2007 and her engagement was approved by her Hollywood “Mother” Jackie Stallone. She was fortunate to have met her soulmate who understands her love of travel and exploration. During his diplomatic posting in Canada they have visited Alberta, Quebec and British Columbia, and would still like to see the polar bears in Churchill.

Casa Loma, their heritage home in Rockcliffe Park (built in 1911 for Harry Southam and designed by Allan Keefer), is ideal for hosting events to showcase Austrian customs and specialities. Debra Jean appreciates the privilege of living in Ottawa and finds Canadians very welcoming. She knows new adventures await on future postings, and looks forward to continuing her journey of being a well-travelled citizen of the world.

What did you want to be when you grew up? I wanted to be an Ambassador, an emissary—a representative of the United States. Being from a small town, I noticed that many people never left. I wanted to leave, to explore, learn more and I took every opportunity I could.

I graduated early from high school, completed a double major at NYU, studied abroad one semester and had a summer abroad. I graduated NYU Law School with a Masters of Law in International Legal Studies and also got my Masters in International Affairs. Education came first, but I knew that travel was always going to be an important element in my career and personal growth.

You entered beauty pageants, why?

University was expensive, so I did it for scholarship money and representing the State of Connecticut. I thought it would help improve my interview skills and

build my confidence. It was difficult in the beginning, but it got me far. I still remember how reporters from The New York Times followed me around at NYU Law School asking for interviews when I was crowned Miss United States.

How did you meet your husband? We met on September 6, 2007 as seatmates at the Vienna State Opera on the day Pavarotti died. Stefan was in Foreign Affairs of the Austrian Ministry. We stayed in touch over the next six years through emails and telephone calls and reconnected when he was the Ambassador to Latvia in 2013. Our picture-perfect wedding was planned entirely by Stefan in 2015 and held on a mountaintop in a pink Gothic church of the Benedictine Monastery Gottweig Abbey, near Krems in Lower Austria.

What is it like to be the spouse of an Ambassador? I am true to who I am and socialize easily with everyone, no matter how influential. Stefan says I have this great ability to talk to people and leave a lasting impression. My husband is conservative and we complement each other and have a clear division of tasks.

For most diplomatic wives, being a spouse can be your only job. I am fortunate that I am able to continue working from home for a California law firm where I specialize in international resort development.

What are your future plans? Stefan’s term concludes here in January, 2021 and there are many embassies to which he can apply. Ottawa is starting to feel like home, but Stefan reminded me that diplomatic posts are only four years because you can become part of the local culture and start to settle in if you stay too long.

I am currently finishing the final chapters of my book trilogy memoir. The next step is to write my book proposal, find an agent and have it published. It will highlight my education, employment and the excitement and dangers of my international travel. I want to share my uplifting stories as an explorer and adventurer.

WINTER 2020 ottawaathome.ca 45

LIVING N eighbourhood on the Move

CARLETON PLACE WORDS AND PHOTOS BY TED SIMPSON

THIS PAGE CARLETON PLACE TOWN HALL FACING PAGE (RIGHT) HISTORIC QUEEN’S HOTEL ON BRIDGE STREET (FAR RIGHT) THE OLD FEDERAL BUILDING, FORMER POST OFFICE AND BELL TOWER 46 ottawaathome.ca WINTER 2020

S

et along the banks of Canada's mighty Mississippi River, highlighted by a roaring waterfall and historical architecture, the quiet town of Carleton Place sits mostly undiscovered by the rest of the world. While the town hasn’t quite taken off with Ottawa’s day-trippers the same as the nearby communities of Almonte and Perth, there’s a lot to be found in Carleton Place and this might be your chance to gain some hipster cred by saying you knew about it before it was cool.

THEN The site of Carleton Place was first settled in the early 1800s, when the British government encouraged European immigration to Lanark County. The Morphy family were the first to see the potential power in the waterfall and fast-moving rapids of the Mississippi River (an offshoot of the Ottawa River), and they established the settlement of Morphy’s Falls in 1819. Like most early villages in the Ottawa area, it was built up around a mill that powered textile and lumber industries.

LIVING Neighbourhood on the Move As the economy boomed, the settlement grew in size and was renamed Carleton Place in 1829 after a city square in Glasgow, Scotland. In 1862 the Findlay Foundry opened, manufacturing cast-iron cookware and stoves, which they continued to produce up until 1974. Carleton Place was incorporated as a village in 1870 and officially became a town in 1890.

The town’s most notable resident, Arthur Roy Brown, born in 1893, was known for his heroism as a military pilot in the First World War. He is also credited with shooting down the Red Baron, Germany’s top ace pilot who was so revered in battle that he has been immortalized in modern media. Whether Roy Brown fatally wounded the Red Baron is a matter of controversy among historians, but there is no doubt that he was a skilled and heroic pilot.

In 2012 the town of Carleton Place commissioned a very large and beautifully painted mural to honour Roy Brown. It depicts a scene from his famous aerial battle with the Red Baron and can be seen from Bridge Street, just across the river from downtown.

NOW These days, Carleton Place is a rapidly growing town, just west of Ottawa’s city borders along a quick drive on Highway 7. Don’t be fooled by the big-box, commercial district found along the sides of the highway; the real character of the town is found within.

The town centre is built around a classic main street, lined with shops and restaurants, built mostly in the late 1800s and early 20th century. Standout architecture from the masonic temple, historic churches, and bell towers highlight the scenery, but the real star of the show is the Town Hall building.

Sitting on the banks of the river, the limestone building is unmistakable with its high clocktower, as well as pointed window turrets and a steep roofline that is reminiscent of Ottawa’s Château Laurier.

EAT, DRINK & WALK The foodie scene in Carleton Place is fairly new and pretty small, but there is some really great stuff going on that is worth checking out. At the Black Tartan Kitchen in the heart of downtown, award-winning chef Ian Carswell is drawing praise from critics for his delicious takes on simple, classic dishes (be sure to read more about Ian in the food section, page 55).

Boulton House is located in one of the town’s oldest buildings that was originally a waterfront milling operation. Their food is focused on fresh, local ingredients with lots of Italian dishes on the menu, and the restaurant’s spacious patio sits right at the edge of a roaring waterfall.

The Good Food Company has been a staple of the Carleton Place main street since 1997, and the reason they’ve stuck around so long is all in their name with locally sourced, seasonal ingredients of the highest quality. The small cafe is only open for breakfast and lunch (the kitchen is closed by 2:30 p.m.), so plan accordingly and do not miss out.

The craft beer scene arrived in Carleton Place with Stalwart Brewing, and they have been a big hit with beer lovers across the Ottawa area. Their passion for brewing strong IPAs and rich stouts began in the kitchen of Ottawa's Wellington Gastropub and they now occupy a funky garagestyle space on the high street. They've

since been joined in town by Braumeister Brewing, crafting authentic Germanstyle beers.

Another attractive feature is how well connected the town is to recreational trails. The Great Trail (formerly Trans Canada Trail) takes you from Ottawa to Carleton Place all year round by foot, bike or x-country skiing depending on the season. Additionally, the Ottawa Valley Recreational Trail on the former CPR rail line connects to the nearby town of Almonte (best known as the setting for dozens of Hallmark Christmas movies), and goes on to the lovely small town of Pakenham.

If you’re arriving by people power, it’s best to stay overnight, and Carleton Place has that covered with The Grand Hotel. This 16-room hotel is located in an 1872 stone building right in the centre of town, and adds to the classic, oldworld feeling that comes with any visit to Carleton Place.

WINTER 2020 ottawaathome.ca 47

Great ideas flow here.

RED FLAG AWARENESS

BY CATHERINE CLARK twitter instagram @catherinejclark

PHOTO BY MARK HOLLERON

W

endy Gee has worked with at-risk and homeless youth for most of her career, but nothing prepared her for the moment she learned that a close family connection was a victim of human sex trafficking.

“I was devastated,” says Wendy. “My first thought was—how did I not know this was happening? And then I sobbed— my heart broke for her. I felt a lot of guilt for not protecting her, and I worried about her mental health and longterm consequences.”

Wendy was determined to do everything she could to help the young woman, and all young women like her who become entangled in the dangerous web of human trafficking. To that end, she now serves as Executive Director of A New Day, an Ottawa residential and restorative program for commercially or sexually exploited and trafficked women.

“People of all walks of life can be coerced into trafficking situations,” says Wendy. “We think affluence provides a barrier to sex trafficking or addictions or domestic violence— that if we provide good schools and lots of extra-curricular activities our kids will be immune, but that is simply not true.”

Recruiters target kids as young as 12, building their trust by purchasing expensive gifts and providing drugs and alcohol. The recruiter then introduces the sex trafficker, who tells the child that the gifts need to be paid off through sexual acts, which the trafficker often films.

“After that, he has you in the palm of his hand and the child is caught in a cycle of violence, terrified that a parent or older sibling will find out,” explains Wendy. “The child thinks they have no other choice.”

This is the cycle that Wendy is trying to stop. She and her team work to transition women out of trafficking, and offer free programs to help kids identify dangerous situations— a program they are trying to get in to local schools. “We teach kids to understand the red flags.”

Wendy also has advice for parents. “Your child needs to know that no matter where

they are or what the situation, you will come get them immediately,” she explains.

“Wait until you have them home, safe and sober before having a conversation about why they did this and how you can help them prevent it happening again.”

In the end, her message is simple.

“We need to give kids the tools to protect themselves.” That’s something Wendy is committed to doing, one young woman at a time.

For more information, visit anewdayyas.com WINTER 2020 ottawaathome.ca 49

2020

LIVING E vents

Art & Party

BY MURRAY DINEEN

The following galleries have upcoming openings, a few of which are noted below. Always check the gallery website, since dates and times can shift. Note that Wall Space Gallery asks for an RSVP:

A

rtwork is one of the most effective ways to make a personal imprint upon a home. A choice selection of art can set the mood of a room, welcome visitors and provide pleasure over the course of a day. Fortunately, shopping for art can also be an opportunity to party by attending an art show opening, sometimes called a vernissage (from vernis, French for varnish, usually the last step in painting an artwork before showing).

An opening is an intimate, personal, and relaxed opportunity to see new works of art carefully arranged in a gallery setting. It’s also a chance to meet people with an interest in art, some of whom are just starting to collect. Above all, it’s a rare opportunity to talk with artists. As local painter and printmaker Roger Sutcliffe says, “I like the opportunity to meet new and interesting people, and answer questions on my work, my motivations and what I am striving to achieve.” For artist Susan Cartwright, it’s a chance to “talk to the guests about my artistic process and intent, and share my love and passion for what I do.”

Most gallery owners know the importance of letting artwork make its own impression upon a customer. For that reason, an opening is a relaxed affair, accompanied usually by finger food and

refreshments (often wine and cheese) either free or at minimal cost. Patrons are encouraged to move around the gallery at their own pace, to talk with others, or simply look quietly at the artwork.

Luckily for art lovers, Ottawa has a lively and evolving art scene. Openings take place almost weekly at numerous private galleries such as Koyman Gallery in Ottawa East, Wall Space in Westboro, Studio Sixty Six in the Glebe, and the Orange Gallery adjacent to City Centre, just off Somerset Street. A visit to a vernissage at La Fab Arts Centre in Chelsea can be combined with dinner in one of Chelsea’s excellent restaurants, a walk in Gatineau Park, or a visit to Nordik Spa-Nature.

Like buying a home, buying art is a commitment to an object over a long period of time. And the experience can be pleasant in ways that only an art gallery can provide. Whether you’re just getting into art or have been collecting for a while, a vernissage is a great way to see art, meet people, and have fun.

Most galleries have websites, or a presence on social media where they announce openings. A good source for finding arts events is the Ottawa Arts Events Calendar sponsored by Arts Network Ottawa or consult Art Engine’s Ottawa events listing.

Wall Space Gallery, “Alternative Process,” with artists Marianne Burlew, Joy Kardish, Nicole Krstin, Nate Nettleton, and Ava Roth, Thursday March 5, 5–7 pm, (please RSVP to responses@wallspacegallery.ca).

Gallery 101, Various artists, with support from the Wabano Centre for Aboriginal Health, Minwaashin Lodge, Tungasuvvingat Inuit.

“Human Trafficking Awareness within Indigenous Communities,” Saturday March 7, 1–5 pm.

Studio Sixty Six Gallery, Andrew Beck, Friday March 27, 6–9 pm, and Guillermo Trejo, Friday May 1, 6–9 pm.

Orange Art Gallery. Leya Evelyn, “Absolutely,” Thursday March 5, 6–10 pm, and Matthew Jeffrey and Ingrid Hollander, “New Works,” Thursday April 2, 6–10 pm.

Koyman Galleries, Raynald Leclerc, Saturday April 4, 12–5 pm, and Sheila Davis, Saturday April 25, 12–5 pm.

La Fab, the gallery at the cultural centre in Chelsea, Shabnam Dastoornejad, “Moments in Pastels,” Saturday April 4, 2–5 pm, and Michelle Delisle, “Beyond Our Differences: Connecting with the Syrian People,” Saturday May 2, 2–5 pm.

WINTER 2020 ottawaathome.ca 51

L I V E LIFE NO W

M U S K O K A C A B I N E T R Y I S A V A I L A B L E A T:

Tropical

FOOD Food Thoughts

CHIA PUDDING

BY KOREY KEALEY twitter @foodthought instagram @kitchenkonnected

A fresh and bright start to any day or a great mid-afternoon pick-me-up snack!

Prep time: 5–10 minutes Standing time: 4 hours Makes approximately: 4 cups

INGREDIENTS ⅓ cup canned coconut cream or coconut milk ½ fresh pineapple, peeled and coarsely chopped 1 lime, peeled ⅓ cup chia seeds 1 can mandarin oranges, drained Shaved unsweetened coconut, to garnish Handful fresh raspberries, washed, to garnish

PHOTO BY MARK HOLLERON

METHOD

1. In blender, purée pineapple pieces, lime and coconut cream until liquefied. Use a spatula to scrape down sides of blender until mixture is smooth.

2. In medium bowl, combine prepared pineapple cream mixture with chia seeds.

Cover and refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight to allow chia seeds to hydrate and the pudding to thicken up.

3. In small glass dishes, or hollowed out pineapple, sliced in four, layer chia pudding with mandarin oranges. Garnish with shaved coconut and raspberries.

Refrigerate up to 3 days

IP KOREY’S T oranges n ri a d n a Canned m d tee sweet are guaran esh in colour. Fr and bright ut b , d n be use oranges ca st ju d a ed to you may ne s to taste. es tn e e sw

WINTER 2020 ottawaathome.ca 53

FOOD Let’s Dish

A N U N E X P EC T E D R O A D TO

NATIONAL ACCLAIM

BY PAULA ROY PHOTOGRAPHY BY TED SIMPSON

O

ttawa native Ian Carswell, chef/ owner of Black Tartan Kitchen in Carleton Place, won the OttawaGatineau regional qualifier for the Canadian Culinary Championships at Canada’s Great Kitchen Party last fall. That victory earned him a spot at the national finals which recently took place in Ottawa.

Facing off against 11 top chefs from across the country was a dream come true for Ian, made even sweeter by the opportunity to represent the Ottawa area on home turf in this prestigious and intense three-event cooking competition.

Ian says the experience will remain a career highlight for a long time to come and while he did not reach the podium he thoroughly enjoyed the whole weekend and felt very proud of his team’s effort.

Ottawa At Home checked in with Ian to learn about how he prepared for the national championships.

What has life been like for you since you won the regional event in November?

We definitely have been much busier than usual, even during December when we are almost always full. We are seeing new guests in addition to our many regulars and loving all the support; people congratulated us by coming for dinner, and that has extended into 2020.

You began your career in Ottawa—why the move to Carleton Place? We chose this location in 2016 because it was so much more affordable than Ottawa. We love the small town feel and the camaraderie with neighbouring businesses, some of whom even helped finance our participation at nationals. It’s a town that is growing; we have been very well received for our approachable yet elevated menus.

54 ottawaathome.ca WINTER 2020

FOOD Let’s Dish When did your preparation for the national competition begin? We started a week after the regional event. After the busy holiday season we focused on it 100 percent, practicing almost a dozen black box challenges. Thanks to the experience of creating weekly wine pairings for our blind tasting menu, we were able to come up with a lot of ideas for dishes to go with the mystery wine we’d be dealing with at the first event.

What did you anticipate would be the biggest challenges of the competition? First off, the mystery wine pairing. My sous chef Christian Lessard and I knew we would have to shop locally for ingredients from 6–8 a.m. with $500, and then create 400 plates.

Second, while we didn’t plan any major modifications to our grand finale dish that secured our win at regionals because we feel it represents Black Tartan Kitchen really well, we knew we’d have to tweak it so we could serve up 600 portions in a short amount of time.

And third, the curveballs. I usually do well under pressure thanks to years of experience so I was hoping I could handle whatever unexpected things happen. It’s a serious competition, but I also went into it knowing it’s not the end of the world if I don’t win. The other chefs are amazing and I can’t control what they do; I can only do the best that I can do.

What’s the best advice you’ve received as you were preparing? Two-time winner Marc Lepine of Atelier and THRU had great insights about how to prepare, as did the 2019 champion, Yannick LaSalle of Les Fougères. Pat Garland of Absinthe was very instrumental too. The biggest messages were, “Don’t overcomplicate things. Stick to what you know and don’t do anything new and uncomfortable.”

Did you think about how you were going to pace yourself? Three events versus one at regionals made it a lot more challenging. I knew I’d be running on coffee and adrenalin, trying to save some energy for my six-year-old daughter’s birthday party the day after the competition.

My wife Tessa has been amazing keeping things running at home solo lately, but I knew there was no way I could bail on that party.

What did you think it would mean to do well in your hometown? It’s exciting enough to represent Ottawa, but particularly so having the national competition taking place here for the very first time. Winning regionals was fantastic and just to have the chance to vie for the podium against such amazing competitors is an experience I never imagined I would get to have. I feel so grateful for everyone who has been rooting for us in Ottawa and Carleton Place.

WINTER 2020 ottawaathome.ca 55

what’s new?

FOOD Dining Out

BLUE CHEESE GNOCCHI

BY PAULA ROY PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK HOLLERON

Ottawa has some new gems on the dining front that are turning heads not only for the calibre of their food, but also for their genuine and comprehensive approach to hospitality.

56 ottawaathome.ca WINTER 2020

GRUNT It might seem like an unusual neighbourhood for haute cuisine, but Chef Jason McLelland intentionally chose Mechanicsville when he opened Grunt last May. A native of Scotland who has cooked at some of the top spots around the world, Jason says that he wants to show people that fine dining doesn’t need to be expensive and flashy to be intriguing.

With just 22 seats, Grunt offers a cozy, modest environment with rustic barn board throughout and interesting art on the walls. You can watch this genial chef at work in the open kitchen; he might ferry your plates to your table, or it might be his gracious, friendly wife Marie.

A short but well-chosen wine list complements the equally-brief food menu, which changes every two weeks.

Among the many popular dishes that have been featured are an inventive

take on the porchetta sandwich and a gnocchi Parisienne in carbonara sauce.

Vegan and vegetarian options are always available. Dessert is always a standout; recent selections have included sticky toffee pudding, upscale bread and butter pudding, and a gorgeous squid ink meringue with strawberry ice cream and peppered strawberries.

With a name like Grunt you might think it’s a meat-centric restaurant but there’s more to the story. “This is my time,” says Jason. “I worked for others at a very high level for so long, making outstanding food and helping sell excellence. But when you’re grunting it out for others, there’s a lot that goes on that guests never know about. Now I get to do things my way and be open and transparent about it. I want people to see it doesn’t have to cost a fortune to eat well and I want this place to be a springboard for making change in the industry.”

FOOD Dining Out

GITANES

HALIBUT, SHIITAKE, BURNT CABBAGE, MUSHROOM DASHI

While the name of this new Elgin Street eatery might conjure up notions of French sophisticates, rest assured that Gitanes is a comfortable, welcoming spot.

Ottawa native Mitch Lacombe serves as the chef de cuisine at Gitanes, leveraging his experience at Riviera and Restaurant e18hteen. He helped develop the menu with executive chef Luke Reyes, who is one of the restaurant’s owners. It reflects classic French culinary traditions, fused with local, Canadian ingredients. “We serve dishes that people can recognize as comfort food and which are accessible, yet elevated with unusual touches,” says Mitch.

The cold seafood bar is a highlight of any visit to Gitanes—from oysters to sea urchin to king salmon crudo, there is an ever-changing array of delights.

Popular entrees include French onion soup—complete with bone marrow on top to scoop out into the dish—as well as vegetarian options such as mushroom Bolognese on vegan pasta or a delicate celery salad with spicy pickled raisins, toasted hazelnuts and Quebec blue cheese. For a real indulgence, the chef’s table in the kitchen seats six for a lively, interactive experience.

After 10 pm, a late night menu takes over, making Gitanes popular among workers in the restaurant industry. “It’s a homage to the original OZ Kafe which was in this space for many years and was a bustling late-night spot,” explains Mitch.

Don’t miss a chance to try one of Gitanes’ creative cocktails. If you’re lucky, you might even be seated at the one table which features a “press here for champagne” button, summoning a cart full of interesting bottles of bubbly. It’s a casual, fun place, offering diners a culinary experience that is unique in Ottawa.

WINTER 2020 ottawaathome.ca 57

SECTION Title

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The Women Against MS (WAMS) Gala Luncheon will bring a powerful collective of professionals together next month to celebrate a local businesswoman and raise much-needed funds for multiple sclerosis research. Canada has one of the highest rates of MS in the world and women are affected three times more than men.

This inspirational and entertaining national event offers an award-winning keynote speaker and premier social networking opportunities. Join us on Friday, February 28 for what is sure to be an event to remember as we help end MS! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

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58 ottawaathome.ca WINTER 2020

FOOD Dining Out

BRASSICA Chef Arup Jana gained legions of fans with his first restaurant, Allium, which is due to reopen this summer after a devastating fire in February 2019. Together with his wife Maggie Von zur-Muehlen, Arup has just opened a new spot in Westboro called Brassica. It is the genus name for the plant family which includes kale, Brussels sprouts, cabbage and broccoli—all among the chef’s favourites. Plus, as Arup points out, it offers continuity with the Allium name (allium being the genus name for the garlic family).

The 68-seat restaurant has understated decor; it's the menu that really sets the atmosphere for Brassica. Arup has created a comprehensive bill of fare which acknowledges the current desire for foods that are lower in carbs and contain less gluten, along with dairy free options and

an emphasis on vegetables and fish. It’s a diverse, seasonal menu with reasonablesized portions and pricing. All the food is made in-house, and reflects what Arup and Maggie themselves enjoy, along with a concise and interesting wine list.

“Brassica offers the kind of experience that I want when I go out to eat or when I am cooking at home. It’s not just a protein, a side and a starch; we are encouraging sharing and trying as many things as possible. We believe we have the right formula to make people happy and feel like they got good value.”

Brassica is open Tuesday through Saturday for dinner, with both lunch and casual day-long and drop-in menus also available on Fridays. In addition, there’s an innovative, appealing brunch on offer both Saturdays and Sundays.

WINTER 2020 ottawaathome.ca 59

60  ottawaathome.ca WINTER 2020

FOOD Paula’s Bites

Pasta

WITH

S E A R E D S C A L LO P S

BY PAULA ROY twitter instagram @paulajroy

This is a quick and tasty meal that’s sure to impress. If you chop the vegetables ahead of time and prep the scallops, it will take you less than 15 minutes to get dinner on the table! The secret to searing scallops is to make sure the pan is hot and that there is enough room to cook the scallops in a single layer without crowding them.

Serve this dish with a crisp, green salad and sliced crusty bread for a hearty and satisfying meal.

INGREDIENTS 5 large scallops, thawed if frozen 1

small onion, diced

½ cup (125 mL) diced zucchini ½ cup (125 mL) thinly sliced small mushrooms 1 tbsp (15 mL) butter 1 cup (250 mL) whipping cream ⅔ cup (160 mL) freshly grated parmesan ½ tsp (2.5 mL) each salt, pepper and paprika dash cayenne pepper 7 ounces (200 g) fresh linguine Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

METHOD 1. Remove the adductor muscles on the sides of the scallops and slice them in half crosswise. Place scallops on a piece of paper towel on a plate. Put another piece of paper towel on top and press down to dry the scallops. Put them in the refrigerator with the paper towels until ready to cook.

2. Sauté onions, zucchini and mushrooms in the butter in a large, non-stick frying pan placed over medium heat, stirring often. When vegetables are softened (3–4 minutes), remove pan from heat.

3. In another small saucepan heat whipping cream; when steaming, stir in parmesan and seasonings. Bring to a boil then turn heat off immediately and add sautéed vegetables; turn heat to lowest setting.

Note: do not wipe out the pan you cooked the vegetables in.

4. Add pasta to a large pot of boiling, generously salted water. Fresh pasta (linguine or fettuccine) will take just 4 minutes to cook. As soon as pasta starts cooking, reheat to medium-high the pan in which the vegetables were sautéed.

5. Add the scallops to the hot pan in a single layer and cook about 1½ to 2 minutes per side.

6. When you have flipped the scallops and they are almost done, scoop out 2 tablespoons of the starchy pasta water and add it to the sauce.

7. Drain the cooked pasta and divide among serving bowls. Pour sauce over top of noodles then place scallops on top and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

PHOTO BY MARK HOLLERON

Makes 2 servings WINTER 2020 ottawaathome.ca 61

SECTION Title

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Contact Jennifer Tackaberry Jtackaberry@Ottawaathome.ca WINTER 2020 ottawaathome.ca 63

FORWARD THINKING

PHOTO CREDIT: TOP DRAWER

2020 is bringing BOLD back in every way. This year statement pieces will stand out and make you look twice. Watch for vibrant flower prints in STRONG COLOUR combinations.

Embroidered fabrics draw even more attention to detail like the powerful, uplifting print on the Ian Snow armchair.

64  ottawaathome.ca WINTER 2020

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