Ottawa At Home | Spring/Summer 2021 by Ottawa at Home

a t ho me HOMES | DESIGN | LIVING | SHOPPING | FOOD

COLOUR TRENDS PINK YELLOW PURPLE

WALLPAPER, HOW TO & WHERE TO

WHAT’S HAPPENING ON THE FOOD & EVENT SCENE

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Renovations KITCHENS, BATHROOMS, BACKYARD

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45 HOME 14 DESIGNS ON HOME Let’s talk wallpaper 18 RENOVATION In the Glebe 24 COLOUR TRENDS Coming to terms with yellow & grey 26 COVER RENOVATION Glorious outdoor space

30 RENOVATION Kitchen & bath 34 CAPITAL COLOURS History lesson in purple 37 CAPITAL COLOURS Calming power of pink

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a t ho m e

50 LIVING

FOOD

38 GIVING BACK Finding the right volunteer work fit

59 FOOD THOUGHTS Crab meat salad

45 PROFILE Defining the art of illustration

60 DINING OUT A buzz in the ByWard Market

48 STEP INSIDE Sharing stories through a journalist’s journey

63 LET’S DISH Caribbean in Canada

50 FASHION Playing with spring colours 52 BEAUTY Natural beauty

64 PAULA’S BITES Feta & artichokes in a spread

DEPARTMENTS 10 EDITOR’S NOTE Thoughts of wanderlust 40 NEW & NOTABLE New on the shopping, eating and art scenes 68 FORWARD THINKING The Ottawa Tulip Festival

COVER PHOTO BY MARK HOLLERON SPRING/SUMMER 2021 ottawaathome.ca 5

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EDITOR’S NOTE

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The Want of Wander

Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry and narrow-mindedness.” —MA R K TWA I N LET’S CONNECT facebook-f @OttawaAtHome

Wanderlust literally refers to the desire to wander, which is something that I think a lot of us can relate to. I appreciate how lucky we are to live in Ottawa with its proximity to a varied landscape, but I will never stop believing in the power of travel to open our minds to the world at large. For now, we can only dream… Over the past year my thoughts have often turned to the days when I’d board a plane in one city and land in another country or continent. Those opportunities made me a kinder, stronger and more accepting person. The very first time I hopped on an international flight, I found myself completely in awe of the possibilities that were present from the moment the plane landed at Heathrow. Right outside the window I saw the opportunity for more. Planes with names like Aer Lingus, Saudia, KLM and Lufthansa waited on runways, ready to whisk passengers off to far-away places. When I entered the airport, I felt like I’d been dropped into a global meeting place. People of a vast assortment of nationalities had all come together in one location. It was fascinating to me. From there I continued my journey, getting to know the world and its differences and similarities. The inability to explore has created a trend on the style scene. Global inspirations are being felt within fashion and décor—proving that we’re all carrying a little wanderlust within us. While I am a promoter of all things local, my hope for everyone is that moving forward we reach out to the world at large. For now, we can bring global influences into our homes to create a little bit of the boho vibe that connects us to more of what lives outside of our own world. If a year of staying home has stirred the desire to wander, then start by creating a space that shows off some worldly inspirations. Awaiting the world,

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HOME In Conversation

Talking Wallpaper

BY MARY TAGGART

esigner Emma Doucet has built a solid reputation for her ability to bring interior spaces to life with colour and pattern. Her business, Grassroots Design, located on the corner of Sherbrooke and Gladstone Avenues in trendy Hintonburg, is now a stockist for Farrow & Ball. She first took note of the paint and paper company as a client, recalling that, “I fell in love with Farrow & Ball paint 13 years ago when I painted my then infant daughter’s room Teresa’s Green. I noticed that I got 3 colours for the price of 1. The way the paint responded to sunlight meant it went from light green to light blue to blue/green. I was totally hooked.” Her passion grew to include a love of their wallpaper too. Each pattern is painted on, which gives it the rich handmade texture that it’s known for. Wallpaper has made a significant comeback in the past years and isn’t showing any signs of fading away; in fact, it’s quite the opposite. “It’s like installing a giant piece of art on your wall,” offers Emma, who often adds pattern to walls in intriguing ways. It’s not just about papering a room or even one wall. Designers are using papers as a backdrop to create texture and draw the eye to architectural detailing. Floral prints are wildly popular right now. They bring a space to life quickly with colours and vibrancy that relate to nature. Emma advises that balancing a heavy patterned paper by pulling out colour from the print to paint the walls will ensure a well-dressed space. “You want the paper and the wall colour to speak to each other,” she adds. Find big bold printed-paper murals and apply them to wide-open spaces. Balance is the key to creating a look that feels done, not over-done. This holds true with the metallic papers that have emerged on the scene. Emma cautions that it’s important to pay attention to the quality of the paper if you do decide to go with the metallic look. “They can look like Christmas wrapping paper,” the savvy designer warns. 14 ottawaathome.ca SPRING/SUMMER 2021

HOME BY in Conversation PHOTO PROVIDED FARROW & BALL

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HOME in Conversation

PHOTO BY JUSTIN VAN LEEUWEN 16 ottawaathome.ca SPRING/SUMMER 2021

HOME In Conversation

SOLID ADVICE While today’s papers are often pre-pasted many installers find them to be thinner than the non-pasted. “A good installer likes a slightly thicker paper for the quality and ability to match patterns at the seams more easily,” states Emma, who isn’t afraid to use wallpaper in high traffic areas. “A good quality paper can be wiped off in the same way as a painted wall,” she notes. PHOTO BY ASHLEY FOAD

PHOTO BY JUSTIN VAN LEEUWEN

EMMA’S TOP FIVE WALLPAPER TIPS: 1. CREATE AN ACCENT WALL IN PLACES, LIKE BEHIND A BED OR ABOVE A FIREPLACE. 2. USE WALLPAPER FOR SMALLER SPACES, LIKE POWDER ROOMS AND ENTRANCEWAYS, TO TRANSFORM A TINY, BORING SPACE INTO A SPECTACULAR ONE, WITHOUT INTERFERING WITH OTHER ROOMS. 3. DIVIDE ROOMS WITH PANELLING TO PAPER JUST HALF THE WALL. 4. PAPER ‘AWKWARD,’ SMALL WALLS (LIKE THE ONE AT THE TOP OF YOUR STAIRS) TO CREATE VISUAL INTEREST, WITHOUT GREAT EXPENSE. 5. PUT WALLPAPER BEHIND SHELVING TO ADD A POP OF COLOUR AND PATTERN.

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HOME Glebe Renovation

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HOME Glebe Renovation

MODERN MOVEMENT BY CHLOE GIRVAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY JUSTIN VAN LEEUWEN

hen local software developer Geoff Foster arrived at Carleton University in 2002, he had no idea that his love for Ottawa would last through rentals, condos and almost two decades. Knowing that his industrious renovation dreams would likely require home ownership, Geoff purchased a redbrick row house, built in 1910, just steps from the Rideau Canal. After visiting a friend’s impressive kitchen, recently renovated by Grassroots Design and Build, Geoff met with Grassroots founder, Emma Doucet, in the summer of 2018, to plan a full three-story renovation. Having a fairly broad wish list, Geoff says that he relied on Emma to design his dream house of original character, modern convenience and showstopper kitchen. “Most of the renovation evolved through trust in Emma and watching her continuously knock it out of the park at every step.”

A BRICK VENEER WALL ADDS TEXTURE AND CHARACTER TO THE KITCHEN SPRING/SUMMER 2021 ottawaathome.ca 19

HOME Glebe Renovation

THIS PAGE (ABOVE) KITCHEN CABINETS ARE PAINTED IN FARROW & BALL “CARD ROOM GREEN” (RIGHT) LIGHT FIXTURES FROM CIRCA LIGHTING FACING PAGE HEXAGON MARBLE BACKSPLASH TILES FROM SALTILLO TILE; THE CLAREANNE BY BRITANNICA COUNTER WAS INSTALLED BY URBAN QUARRY

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Sharing Geoff’s love of mature homes, Emma set out to apply her proven formula of working with a client’s aesthetic to create a place for them that feels like home. Renovations commenced in January 2019, with Emma aware of the challenges ahead. “It can be tough to transform older homes into something modern because they lack symmetry and empty space. There is also a struggle between wanting to keep the original elements and the need to open up.” Problematic features like a central main-floor full bathroom and galley kitchen made for an easy demolition decision, clearing a path for engineered hardwood floors of reclaimed maple from the Ottawa Valley. According to Emma, “Engineered hardwood floors look beautiful and offer wonderful insulation.

They do not suffer from seasonal climate fluctuations and provide a modern, interesting influence that can be easily slipped into a traditional home.” The installation of rustic beams to conceal a slight variance in ceiling heights inspired the pursuit of a cohesive aesthetic through further placement of this rough and warm looking wood in the foyer and powder room. On the menu of kitchen musts were luxe details like giant hexagon tiles, a play on new versus old, peninsula, beer fridge, veneer wall of exposed red brick, and custom wraparound cabinetry by Bench Dog Cabinets. To maximize natural light flowing from the back of the house, an awkward sliding door was replaced by a huge back window. Finishing touches included high-end appliances, black faucets and brass trim.

HOME Glebe Renovation

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HOME Glebe Renovation

THIS PAGE (RIGHT) NAVY BATHTUB IS FROM PRESTON HARDWARE (BELOW) A CUSTOM CEMENT SINK, DESIGNED BY EMMA, WAS BUILT BY THRESHOLD DESIGN CONCRETE COUNTERTOPS FACING PAGE WALLPAPER FROM HYGGE & WEST (FAR RIGHT) MUDROOM FLOOR TILE IS FROM EURO TILE

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HOME Glebe Renovation

As she considers lighting to be the jewellery of the home, Emma says it is important to be purposeful when choosing fixtures and to know when to go big or small. Bell-shaped kitchen pendants, chosen to compliment the ceiling beams, also serve to delineate between cooking and entertaining spaces. Additional glamour is added to the dining room area thanks to a carefully selected oversized mid-century fixture. The process of constructing a nearby powder room entailed moving basement stairs towards the front of the house, initially giving Geoff a bit of a shock. “I stopped by one day and there was just this giant hole in the floor.” Now tucked under stairs to the second floor, this enviable space includes sightlines of a cast iron sink and whimsical wallpaper smartly selected to be read as traditional. With so many highlights to choose from, an attic primary bedroom and bath have proven to be the perfect, cozy, oasis. Working with pre-existing angles and two skylights, heated floors and an open spa-style shower were installed along with a masculine, yet flexible, navy blue bathtub. Old-school hexagon tile with veining shimmers against hits of walnut, giving a subtle nod to the rest of the house. Now back living in his completed home since September of 2019, Geoff calls his new space a wonderful place to be and looks forward to days of being able to cook and entertain friends in his new kitchen. When asked to describe his feelings about the renovation process and results, happiness filled his voice along with a one-word response of, “Ecstatic.”

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HOME Trends

A Study in

IMAGE SUPPLIED BY THE FRENCH BEDROOM CO.

BY MARY TAGGART INSTAGRAMTWITTER @maryktaggart

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HOME Trends

he Pantone colour of the year is one of the most influential elements within the design world. Fashion and décor aficionados look to it for inspiration and lead decision making off the choice. It’s only fitting that the choice for 2021 played a mind game. Not one but, two colours were chosen. The selection of Ultimate Gray and Illuminating Yellow is supposed to create a feeling of diversity to show how two independent colours work together. Yes, in theory this concept is beautiful. However, in practice, well, it will take some practice, and not everyone is going to get it right. Here’s the problem: yellow. While obviously, the colour instills an instant pop of joy to make us all feel happier just by looking at the sunny shade, yellow is in fact one of the most challenging colours to work with. So, what’s the suggestion? Add grey to balance off the riot that yellow creates. This is an ideal solution, but here’s the problem: grey. Grey comes in a multitude of shades. The hue offers so many options that it has become universally known as one of the most popular wall colours to assign. However, not all of them work with yellow and not all yellows work with grey. See where this is going? I can’t quite figure out why Pantone would do this to us this year. I was expecting something soft, soothing, and easy to live with. But always up for a challenge I’m offering a variety of ways for style seekers to stay on trend while also feeling calm, knowing that it will all come together. Look to nature when choosing yellow and grey. Think about going with a brilliant yellow from the sun, and cool concrete grey from river rocks and mountain sides and you should be feeling harmonious with a style that shows off a whole lot of optimism! When I think of it that way, I am a little swayed. Just maybe, Pantone is on to something!

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HOME Backyard Renovation

Set in Stone

BY ALEXIA WILKINSON-NAIDOO PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK HOLLERON

26 ottawaathome.ca SPRING/SUMMER 2021

HOME Backyard Renovation

ith a property right on the Rideau River, just south of Hog’s Back Falls, it’s no wonder Tony and Gill Weinberg set their hearts on a landscape design that would organically blend with the natural elements. They decided to do a major revamp including a formal patio, dining area and stairs, with generous areas for entertaining—but to properly reflect the architecture and scale of their home, it would be too big of a job to do themselves. Choosing Yards Unlimited Landscaping, now in its 32nd year of business, was a bit of serendipity as Tony worked at Tunney’s Pasture and regularly walked past their offices. The design process began with Gill’s creative vision of the landscape emerging organically from the rocks. “When we started working with Yards, they were the first to see exactly what we saw,” says Gill. Wood retaining walls were taken out and sculptured stone and massive granite boulders were brought in, with smaller stones and pebbles used to fill in and extend the area around the boulders. It gave the effect they were looking for by making the boulders look like they had always been there.

THIS PAGE & FACING PAGE AN ABUNDANCE OF PERENNIAL MATERIAL IS OFFSET WITH COLOUR FROM ANNUAL PLANTS

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HOME Backyard Renovation

“There’s a lot of artistry involved in working with some of these elements,” notes Ian Stewart, President of Yards Unlimited. The cut side of the Eramosa Limestone has a veining pattern—a gorgeous blue when wet—similar to wood grain. He had it custom cut so that the veining on the wall stones would be predominant. Yards Unlimited went with a somewhat architectural line—very square, very angular—to reflect the lines in the house. To be mindful of cost, a blend of natural and cultivated stone tile achieved the best of both worlds. Rather than paving everywhere, they focused the natural limestone in the high-impact areas. One of the things the Weinbergs love most about the property is the wildlife, such as the herons, turtles, and ducks, who make their homes along the river. Yards Unlimited ensured their new garden design offers cover for wildlife and attracts plenty of pollinators and birds. “It’s a very active garden,” Ian confirms.

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SECTION Title

Working on land along the Rideau River requires special considerations due to strict rules set out by the Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (RVCA) to retain the shoreline and the grading of the flood plain. “We did our due diligence and made sure we respected all the rules,” says Ian. “We are eternally grateful to the (RCVA) because they’ve really taken an interest in caring for the Rideau River and we benefited enormously from that,” adds Gill. “They’ve been a good guide for us because we wanted to keep the waterfront very natural.” Yards Unlimited used softer, more flowing plants as a counterbalance to the more linear hardscaping—especially stephanandra, cutleaf sumac, hydrangea, Hakone grass, and a variety of hostas. This yin-yang balance was enhanced by plant material spilling over the stone edges. Stephanandra and cutleaf sumac, for example, create a harmony with the flowing sense of the river and pair with the linear nature of the house. The Weinbergs wanted a garden that would be low maintenance, so they opted for all perennials. “We were mindful of the day when we might not be able to take care of it so easily,” explains Gill. Ian says there’s a trick to putting a landscape design all together. For example, you need to work with variable colours and textures to create a garden that evolves throughout the seasons. Early blooming trees and shrubs, like magnolias, bring vibrancy in spring; hydrangeas have blooms changing from white to pink in late summer, and remain dried on the plant into winter; a dogwood’s vibrant green leaves turn to scarlet in fall. Patience and planning are key to successful design. “When you have an opportunity to work with natural stone, every piece is unique. You have to work with care and attention,” notes Ian, adding, “And when you can work with clients like this who love nature as much as we do, it’s quite a pleasure.”

When you have an opportunity to work with natural stone, every piece is unique. You have to work with care and attention” —IAN STEWART SPRING/SUMMER 2021 ottawaathome.ca 29

HOME Kitchen & Bath Renovation

ASHLEY IZSAK

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HOME Kitchen & Bath Renovation

c o nn e ct e d d e sig n

BY MARY TAGGART PHOTOGRAPHY BY @BAREFOOTINTHEHOME

ocial media has become a space for connecting and communicating. Like-minded individuals find a community in sharing words and images through social media. Businesses spread information about products and services, which is just what designer Ashley Izsak’s popular Instagram account, @ashleyizsak, has done for her multi-faceted design business. With over 25K followers, Ashley inspires her audience with client projects and bits of her own personal design journey. This caught the attention of a couple who’d been on the hunt for a designer for the remodeling of their Grenfell Glen midcentury house. It wasn’t just Ashley’s views on design that the couple were aligned with, they too believed in the powers of social media. The couple met on Twitter, so it only seemed fitting that they’d find the person who was going to help them create a dream home via social sharing.

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SECTION HOME Kitchen Title & Bath Renovation

“

Despite all these modern influences, the home itself is grounded in history. The couple bought it from the original owners, who had maintained it but hadn’t done any renovations in over 60 years. The time to had come to bring it into the 21st century. “The owners wanted to create a warm, contemporary feeling to the space,” Ashley shares. Her vision connected perfectly with theirs. The project began in early March of 2020, before the pandemic hit, and what should have been smooth suddenly turned complicated. Thanks to the ability to make quick decisions, and a few adjustments along the way, Ashley managed to turn out a beautifully executed renovation. The homeowners found the process so inspiring they got engaged halfway through. The transitional feeling of urban contemporary style is evident throughout the home. While the budget was generous it still offered restrictions. Ashley went with an IKEA kitchen and added custom cabinet doors from Swedish Doors. “This allowed us to achieve a custom look,” states Ashley. The kitchen is a standout in the open space. Detailing like gables, paneling, glass doors and an appliance garage all add to the ‘wow’ factor of the space. The white cabinets hold on to a classic look while the grey island, painted in Benjamin Moore Gentleman’s Gray, contrasts with moody intrigue. Both elements are pulled together beautifully through the quartz countertops and backsplash. The hood fan is an outstanding feature. “The veins in the quartz pop behind the white hood fan,” remarks Ashley.

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The owners wanted to create a warm, contemporary feeling to the space” —ASHLEY IZSAK

HOME Kitchen & Bath Renovation

Brushed brass hardware steals the show while the nickel faucet and pot filler settle into the background. It’s a design trick that Ashley incorporated to help the project stay on budget. “I chose polished nickel for its longlasting appeal. I usually lean towards timeless choices with big ticket items,” reveals Ashley. The two bathrooms offer plenty of Instagram-worthy style. The black faucets have that something extra without costing a fortune. All the flooring was replaced and offers details that are noteworthy throughout the entire house. The herringbone patterned tile on the kitchen floor unifies the overall look and feel of the home. It all comes together by holding onto elements of mid-century roots while still transitioning into the next century. The lockdown offered complications; there were delays and reselections when product was no longer available but, ultimately, the project pays tribute to the powers of connecting with the right person, in the right place, at the right time.

FACING PAGE QUARTZ COUNTER-TOPS HAVE THE LOOK OF MARBLE THIS PAGE (TOP) THE TWO BATHROOMS WERE TREATED WITH FLOORING DETAIL TO INJECT HIGH STYLE TO THE SPACE (BELOW) IKEA CABINET BOXES WERE DRESSED UP WITH CUSTOM DOORS FROM SWEDISH DOORS

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HOME Capital Colours

Purple BY MARY TAGGART INSTAGRAMTWITTER @maryktaggart

here is no colour more regal than purple. The deep, rich shade is well established in the history of design and style with a long-standing association with royalty and Roman emperors. It eased its way to becoming one of the most common colours associated with Victorian style, and no 1980s home was complete without a little lavender thrown in. Today, designers opt for a soft tone to create elegant spaces with modern influences. One of the greatest benefits of decorating with purple is that its many shades work as one. You can easily combine a deep plum tone with a soft lavender to set a monochromatic scheme while also creating a colour-filled room. Another benefit of the versatile shade is that it mixes well with others. Colour enthusiasts often look to nature for inspiration, which is where you’ll find purple mixing with green in one the most eye-catching combinations of colour balancing. Soft green and lilac or deep purple and emerald green pair beautifully together. Not only will you find it on the décor scene, but purple has become an ideal choice for accessories with its ability to blend with both silver and gold as well as being a popular addition to most patterned fabrics.

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HOME Capital Colours NYMPH CHANDELIER BY KOKET, COVET HOUSE

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Linebox Studio’s fresh approach creates b e au t i fu l , fu n c t i o n a l s p a c e s

Step inside any well-designed building and you’ll immediately perceive that not only is the space aesthetically pleasing; it’s also highly functional. Meshing form and function is what the progressive architects at Linebox Studio excel at, whether it’s a large-scale renovation, a new home build or a commercial project. “We like to challenge conventions in every aspect of the architectural process,” explains Linebox founder, architect Andrew Reeves. “Our approach involves helping the client create a vision of how they want the space to work for them. What are their individual ideas about sleep, mealtime, work and family spaces? Once we get a strong sense of who they are and how they live, we can start bringing ideas forward. We are always mindful that when we design for clients, they are not getting a Linebox house, they are getting their house. The context, environment and design are all important, and the individual is at the centre of the process.” This deeply personal exercise elicits different responses every time, he notes, which is why Linebox designs are always unique. “We take the time to uncover the character of the client and then translate that into built form,” says Andrew. Whether it’s a commercial or residential project, the firm’s philosophy and approach is the same, which helps explain the highly innovative, functional commercial

spaces in the Ottawa area with which you may be familiar, including The Opinicon, Riviera and other restaurants plus Shopify’s Elgin and Laurier Street offices. “It is because of the calibre, dedication and focus of each of our team members that Linebox continues to enjoy so much success,” he adds. “Being able to attract and retain great talent—giving them their own runway to grow, develop and experiment—ensures our thoughtful process remains fresh and productive every time. We’ve got a solid team all around.” A current Linebox project that is set to make a big impact in Ottawa is the St. Charles Market condominium development, nearing completion in Vanier. “This project is an example of how as architects we need to respect the people and place and let that direct the design,” explains Andrew. “Vanier was predominantly French-Canadian and the church has played a central role in the community for over 100 years. This was very much in mind as we designed a development that remains open to the community and embraces its rich, Franco-Ontarian roots and heritage. We were excited to find new ways to spark a renaissance, by continuing St. Charles’s legacy as a hub for area residents while also attracting visitors from other neighbourhoods.” Offering end-to-end architectural services that include interiors, Linebox’s trophy cabinet is proof of the firm’s fresh approach coupled with the strength of its entire team. They collaborate with not only clients but also builders, tradespeople, artists and craftspeople, working in tandem to create well-designed homes—meant not only for living and entertaining but also for working comfortably and efficiently—that truly reflect each client’s character. With offices in Ottawa, Toronto and now Montreal, Linebox is disrupting norms in the most pleasing ways possible.

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OF THE

BY OLIVIA TAGGART PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMY JULES

he concept of arts and science are joined together in the world of academics as an area of study. Ottawa artist Merryl-Royce Ndema-Moussahe, joins the two in his daily life. With a background in biochemistry, Merryl-Royce works for Health Canada, but with a talent for drawing he also makes time each day for his work as an illustrator, something he’s done since he was a child. “Illustration is something that I have been doing my whole life, it’s been a passion,” he reveals. While Merryl-Royce doesn’t define himself as an illustrator in the traditional sense, he’s aware of his work similarities. Traditionally, an illustrator is someone who has the ability to draw in a variety of ways to show environments and people on paper using tools like charcoal and pencils. “What connects the artist to the word illustrator is the ability to recreate environment on paper,” explains Merryl-

Royce. He’s able to accomplish this through digital illustration using his iPad, although he does draw with charcoals as well. Touting the benefits of illustrating with an iPad, Merryl-Royce says, “I now use the iPad Pro which really makes the artwork easier. There are a lot of tricks with digital art that allow me to draw faster and more accurately. I can transfer directly to my computer from my iPad. The colour palette is endless which is something that wasn’t possible traditionally.” Prior to finding a community of likeminded artists through his Instagram account, he didn’t have a connection to the medium, given that friends and family were not fully able to relate to his work. Social media also provided him with a connection that evolved his work into the literary space. He was introduced to Toronto author Tiyahna Ridley-Padmore when she put a call out on Instagram for an SPRING/SUMMER 2021 ottawaathome.ca 45

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YA R D S UNLIMITED L

Design Office and Show Room 77 Holland Avenue (613)721-8195 inquiries@yardsunlimited.com www.yardsunlimited.com 46 ottawaathome.ca SPRING/SUMMER 2021

LIVING P rofile illustrator or an artist to partner with her on a project. Trailblazers: The Black Pioneers Who Have Shaped Canada, is a children’s book that introduces the reader to Black trailblazers whose stories are underrepresented in Canadian history. Written in poetic form, each story is accompanied by one of Merryl-Royce’s illustrations. Once completed, Merryl-Royce and Tiyahna reached out to publishers without any luck. “They questioned the way that some of the stories were being told and if they would appeal to their public,” MerrylRoyce says. “We felt like that was them trying to lower our voice, the Black author/ illustrator voice, to suit the white public. They wanted to change the book in a way we weren’t comfortable with.” The death of George Floyd, in May 2020, changed the conversation around racism. “We really wanted to put out a product that represented what we wanted. We stopped contacting certain publishers because we didn’t want to compromise the book anymore,” Merryl-Royce said. “Some publishers started to respond to previous

66 Iber Rd., Stittsville, ON

messages because the conversation had changed and there was now a focus on Black stories. This felt disingenuous and that their interest was only because of the change of mood in the world.” They eventually decided to self-publish and started a very successful Kickstarter campaign in June 2020. “It was really reassuring because we hadn’t changed the concept of the book,” explains Merryl-Royce. The attention led to a partnership with Indigo. “They wanted to empower us and help us get the book we developed out there without making any changes,” Merryl-Royce said. The book launched in November 2020. “The Trailblazers book was an experience that I am proud to have been a part of,” Merryl-Royce notes, adding, “It’s a really important piece of literature right now, there’s a lot of learning that happens. People are introduced to characters that were part of Canada’s history that they likely hadn’t heard of before.” Theroyceproject.com

info@logsend.com

613-831-9333

logsend.com

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LIVING S tep Inside

WHAT’S YOUR

Story? BY VERA CODY

1. JULIE WITH SINGER CHANTAL KREVIAZUK AND CHANTAL’S SON ROWAN AT MACHU PICCHU 2. JULIE AT THE WHITE HOUSE, WASHINGTON D.C. 3. JULIE, 1991 4. AT THE HEXO CONSTRUCTION SITE 5. JULIE INTERVIEWING FORMER AUSTRALIAN PRIME MINISTER GOUGH WHITLAM 6. JULIE WITH RAINE MAIDA PHOTOS COURTESY OF JULIE BEUN

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ccomplished storyteller, Julie Beun is a best-selling author, journalist, brand consultant, and public relations and marketing expert, with a belief that everyone has a story to tell. Unwilling to commit to a career where she would feel stifled, at 21 she followed her boyfriend to Australia with only $400 in her pocket. After a metropolitan daily tabloid hired her as a young reporter, she learned journalism basics and then sharpened her skills when she started writing for People Magazine (Time Inc. in Australia), Family Circle, and GoodHealth. For twelve years she travelled throughout the South Pacific as a correspondent for the UNESCO Women’s Feature Newswire Service. Upon returning to Canada, she continued writing for Canadian Living, Homemakers, Chatelaine, Ottawa Citizen, and the Montréal Gazette. Julie is also the author

of three books—Timing is Everything: The Memoirs of Sol Shabinsky; Arctic Kaleidoscope (Michelle Valberg’s coffee table book); and recently, Billion Dollar Start-Up, which has become a national best seller for Canadian non-fiction. Julie recently wrote the foreword for an anthology of work by Ottawa poets called Love & Catastrophe Poetre, to be published in June. Julie credits her three decades of journalistic achievement by always being prepared to ask the right questions to get a great story. She has lived her life on her own terms, followed her dreams and is open to every new opportunity with optimism, joy and positive energy.

How did your birth story shape your view on life? I was born in a hospital for unwed mothers in Hawkesbury, was regifted when I was

LIVING Step Inside

2 3

ten days old and put into emergency care with a foster family. I was the first of twenty foster kids and the first of three they adopted. Everybody’s individual qualities, abilities and differences were celebrated because we were such a blended and diverse family. I was taught that every child needs love. My mom talked to me about my adoption but would always say they chose me because I was special and that I was not abandoned. To this day the guiding principles of my life are tolerance, diversity, and acceptance.

How did storytelling become an art you enjoy? I felt misunderstood as a child and growing up in a large family your shared voice was not clearly heard. I had to make myself clear to be understood which was challenging. People fascinate me and I

pay attention to the little things they do which I then store in my writers’ brain. In journalism there is a saying—show, don’t tell. A writer and good storyteller should be thinking about the details and noticing everything. We find the ordinary in extraordinary people and the extraordinary in ordinary people.

How exciting is it to see your latest book, Billion Dollar Start-Up: The True Story of How a Couple of 29-year-olds Turned $35,000 into a $1,000,000,000 Cannabis Company, become a best seller? From 2014 to 2019 I was at the forefront of telling the story of two ambitious brothers-in-law, Adam G.J. Miron and Sébastien St-Louis, who gave me direct access to their journey in creating HEXO, a company that would contribute to the

legalization of the cannabis industry. This book is my voice and 100% the way I write as an author and am proud that it is on the best seller’s Canadian non-fiction list.

What is your next chapter? There are still multiple roadblocks and obstacles to come but I believe each one is an opportunity. This past year we have looked at a mountain of problems wondering how we were going to climb over it. For me, the material that created that mountain changes into the paving stones for a way forward. Use the resources in front of you to create a positive path forward and always walk towards the light. I believe there are two paths—the high road and the low road. I will be on the high road and if you cannot hear me down there you will have to come up. SPRING/SUMMER 2021 ottawaathome.ca 49

LIVING F ashion

BILLOWY STYLE Comfortable is still on trend. Look chic while feeling relaxed. BARDOT BLUE DRESS: NORDSTROM

TOP, DENIM AND CROSSBODY PURSE: MICHAEL Michael Kors TOTE AND SANDALS: ALDO

Springing inTo Play BY MARY CIANCIBELLO INSTAGRAM @maryciancibellostyle PHOTOGRAPHY TIA MACPHERSON

WELCOME TO THE CREW Move over turtlenecks! Crewnecks dominate the style scene. “MERCI” CREW NECK: PINK MARTINI NEON CREW NECK: GAP 50 ottawaathome.ca SPRING/SUMMER 2021

Welcome lighter pieces, playful silhouettes, and colourful patterns to your spring wardrobe.

LIVING F ashion

GLORIOUS COLOUR Every colour in every shade has its place. ROUND YELLOW PURSE: WINNERS RUNNING SHOE: ALDO ORANGE CAP TOP: RW & CO.

DELICATE DETAILS Local & fashionable, these delicate pieces will bring a touch of bling this Spring. OLIVIA HOOPS & EVIL EYE NECKLACE: KATYELANDRY.COM

50 SHADES OF WHITE

HIGH RISE WITH FLARE

For those who prefer the neutral trend.

Hey skinny leg, make room for the new leg in town. Wide-legged pants have all the flare we need this spring.

WHITE ANKLE BOOT: WINNERS TRENCH: RW & CO.

DENIM: MICHAEL Michael Kors WIDE LEG PANT: RW & CO.

THE 80’S CALLED Roll back the clocks with neons and graffiti. NEON BODYSUIT: OLD NAVY GRAFFITI PURSE AND NEON EARRINGS: ALDO SPRING/SUMMER 2021 ottawaathome.ca 51

LIVING B eauty

Movement FO R WA R D

BY MELISSA SHABINSKY instagram @melissashabinsky

PHOTO SUPPLIED BY ROLAND BAST

Women seem to be ditching hair dye to embrace their natural grey. It’s a trend that Ottawa salon owner Bruno Racine has seen an increase in over the past year. “The wait to see their stylist, due to COVID-19, encouraged so many women to grow out their silver mane. There was a curiosity about how it would look, along with a desire to save money and time.” To make the full transition to silver, Bruno says that a client should already have over 75% natural grey and recommends either a colour process for longer hair or a fresh chop. He suggests a rich shampoo and conditioner, plus a weekly hair mask to manage the naturally wiry and more unruly hair. An anti-yellow shampoo and conditioner will ensure grey hair stays bright and clear of unwanted hues. Meet some of the Ottawa women who decided to embrace their shades of grey, long before the pandemic.

MANDY GOSEWICH Owner STUNNING! Fashion + Accessories @stunningottawa

5 YEARS DYE FREE What sparked your grey hair journey? My best friend started to go grey and not only did I admire the freedom but I started to do the math—the time plus the cost of my monthly salon visits. What helped you through the transition? I went surfer blond to help with the transition and The Kinki Curls product from Nana’s Beauty Boutique really helped to make my curls more defined as I grew out my grey (available at nanasfnb.com). What do you love most about going grey? I feel that I am more of my authentic self than ever before.

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PHOTO SUPPLIED BY LINDSEY GIBEAU

LIVING Beauty

JULIA ROBILLARD VP Marketing Robillard Hearing Centres

8 YEARS DYE FREE What sparked your grey hair journey? My scalp was inflamed and irritated all the time and my hair started aggressively thinning. I really struggled when I spoke to someone and their eyes constantly wandered to my “greying” part line. What helped you through the transition? I changed my hairstyle to a short-angled bob and got fit for a brunette wig with the same short bob style allowing me to feel confident and comfortable to see clients and do commercials. What do you love most about going grey? My scalp feels healthy, I save time at the salon, I feel really happy and confident about being natural yet most importantly, it makes me feel close and connected to my mum, nicknamed the “silver fox.”

LYNN SHABINSKY Lifestyle blogger & yoga teacher @whitehairwisdom

PHOTO SUPPLIED BY AGE OF INDIE

13 YEARS DYE FREE What sparked your grey hair journey? After 25 years of colouring my hair I had had enough, I was ready to embrace my true colours. I felt if it was good enough for the majority of men, it was good enough for me. What helped you through the transition? I used a chemical free colour for the first two months and then I just went cold turkey. What do you love about going grey? I have truly never looked back, in making the choice to go silver, I found my authentic self.

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PHOTO SUPPLIED BY RAFFIE GUERRA

LIVING B eauty

ALISON HUGHES Stylist & Owner of Boutique Fete @alistylinhughes

7 YEARS DYE FREE What sparked your grey hair journey? Post Chemotherapy I was just so happy to have hair, I said I would take whatever grew back in, just as it was. What helped you through the transition? After completing my cancer treatment I decided to use as few chemicals as possible in my ‘beauty routine’ and as the grey grew in, I got super positive responses which encouraged me to keep letting it grow in. What do you love about going grey? Not having to worry about my roots every three weeks and hopefully inspiring other women to consider letting their grey locks shine!

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LIVING Beauty

DR. KAREN J. DOVER MD CEO & President of Dr. Karen J. Dover MD, Laser and Cosmetic Medicine

13 YEARS DYE FREE

PHOTO SUPPLIED BY DARIANE SANCHEZ

PHOTO SUPPLIED BY PERRY MCKENNA

What sparked your grey hair journey? Once my vivid silver roots were growing in faster than the dye stain could fade from the skin at my hairline, I knew it was time! What helped you through the transition? My commitment to the natural process, knowing that my own hair was healthier, happier, and more me; the sheen and the hue of my white/ silver complemented my skin tone beautifully. What do you love about going grey? While the white colour has shifted to a heightened brilliance, some areas have actually darkened, so I now enjoy gorgeous natural contrasts, which I just can’t get from a bottle.

KIM MCDIARMID Founder at Runway Unlimited Professional Model: Montreal, Toronto, Paris @kimmcdiarmidofficial

10 YEARS DYE FREE What sparked your grey hair journey? Sitting in the hairdresser’s chair one day getting my colour done, I had a revelation that I needed to be more honest with myself. My dark hair no longer reflected the woman I was, my experience or confidence. What helped you through the transition? My hairdresser put two platinum streaks in the front to help transition and then spent most of my time in a ponytail for approximately 18 months. What do you love about going grey? The most powerful part of being silver is that I get to decide what beauty and relevance means to me and not what society dictates. The fact that I can inspire others to do the same is both gratifying and humbling.

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L I V E LIFE NO W

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FOOD Food Thoughts IP KOREY’S T MEAT B A R C FIND LUMP YOUR FISH THROUGH R AT THE MONGER O OUNTER, SEAFOOD C THE T IT’S WOR H . E G R U SPL

Preparation Time: 20 minutes Serves 4 (depending on the size of the mold)

INGREDIENTS 1 tin (454 g/16 oz) jumbo lump crab meat, drained 2–3 avocados, peeled, pitted and diced Juice of one lemon ¼ cup minced fresh cilantro, divided 2 mango, peeled, pitted and diced 1 large tomato, diced Salt & pepper, to taste Olive oil, optional Microgreens or cilantro sprigs, to garnish

METHOD PHOTO BY MARK HOLLERON

Stacked Lump Crab Meat Salad BY KOREY KEALEY instagram @KoreyKealey twitter @foodthought

1. Place a ring mold on a serving plate, spoon ¼ of the lump crab meat into the ring; press lightly. 2. Add enough diced avocado to cover the crab meat and press up against all sides of the ring (each layer should be about 1-inch). 3. Squeeze some lemon juice over the avocado layer, season with salt and sprinkle with 1 tbsp minced cilantro. Press lightly with the back of the spoon to compact slightly but keeping the cubes somewhat intact. 4. Top one half of the avocado layer with diced mango and the other half with diced tomato. Press lightly to compact, cover, and refrigerate until ready to serve (up to 3 hours). 5. When ready to serve, remove the ring. Top with microgreens and drizzle with olive oil (optional).

Building a salad in a circular mold is an easy, fun and impressive way to serve simple fresh ingredients. This sunny tropical dish will brighten your day. Substitute canned tuna or salmon for lump crab meat.

6. Serve as is or with sturdy pita or corn chips to scoop. Note: Lump crab meat is more substantial than standard canned crab meat found in the grocery store aisle. SPRING/SUMMER 2021 ottawaathome.ca 59

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FOOD Dining Out

From

BY PAULA ROY PHOTO BY ASHLEY FOAD

iners are the big winners with the ByWard Market revitalization plan. When it’s complete expect a more vibrant, people-focused environment. Long-time area restaurateur John Borsten is enthusiastic about the planned overhaul for the almost 200-year-old ByWard Market. He’s been doing business in downtown Ottawa for over 35 years; his first venture was the perennially popular Zak’s Diner. His restaurant group also includes the Metropolitain Brasserie, The Grand Pizzeria and Zak’s Cantina. Recently, John and his business partners demonstrated their continuing faith in the lure of the ByWard Market by purchasing the 145-year-old Fish Market building at the corner of York and William Streets. Work is underway to refurbish and refresh the property, which will become home to a collection of new establishments. The first space to open will be a subterranean bar called Apothecary which will be set to welcome guests this spring. “The room has so much character,” says the restaurant group’s designer and director of marketing, Sofia Santiso Borsten. “The crew has been exposing and cleaning the old stone and brick walls and those rugged textures form the foundation of the design plan; they’ll be balanced with soft, sexy touches of velvet and chic lighting.” “A hundred years or more ago, you’d go to an apothecary to seek out alcohol-based tinctures as cures for your ailments. These are the roots of modern mixology, so we’re having fun including

old pharmacy-style items in Apothecary’s décor,” she explains. The second and third floors will similarly pay tribute to the building’s roots; the overall capacity will be about 500 guests, served from a kitchen and bar on each floor. Apothecary’s menu will emphasize intriguing cocktails and to that end, a talented mixologist has spent months developing signature drinks. The fare will include bar snacks, such as cheese and charcuterie boards, tartare, ceviche, and finger foods, with a good selection of vegan options. John is optimistic that by summertime of this year, Ottawa should be experiencing a bit of a renaissance in the hospitality industry. “There will be less competition and great demand as people will be eager to go out, especially to enjoy patios and all the ByWard Market has to offer. We’ll have a large street level patio at the new building and are exploring the possibility of adding a rooftop terrace also.” He adds that it is invigorating to be working on a new venture as the area prepares for redevelopment. “It is going to have very positive impacts on the restaurant industry, making it more attractive for people to come down here. If you go to Paris, you’re not going to the suburbs. You go to the oldest, densest part of town, and you’ll spend the day. Start at a café, go to a museum, enjoy lunch, stroll by the canal, do a little shopping, then go out for dinner—that is the future for the Market.”

How will John feel when the whole building is open and filled with happy patrons? “I will be very proud that our group has hung in there and helped the vision succeed.” From Sofia’s perspective, “nothing decorates better than a room full of people and we can’t wait to see everyone enjoying these new spaces.”

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f irstalert.ca

Protecting your home and family while enjoying

THE THRILL OF THE GRILL Whether you plan to spend the warmer months enjoying grilling at home, on a boat, at a cottage or in a campground, there’s one essential tool that should be part of every outdoor cooking adventure: the First Alert EZ Fire Spray. Offering a user-friendly alternative to traditional fire extinguishers, this simple spray can design is lightweight and portable. With no pins to pull or levers to squeeze, all you need to do in an emergency grill fire situation is just point and spray. Long recognized as leaders in fire safety solutions, including smoke and carbon monoxide alarms as well as fire extinguishers, First Alert developed the EZ Fire Spray to provide consumers with a product that is less intimidating and easier to handle during a small fire emergency than traditional extinguishers. The need for a reliable grilling safety product has never been greater, with eighty per cent of all Canadian households owning a barbeque or smoker. According to a 2019 Canadian survey, the majority of respondents prepare meals at home on the grill between one and three times per week in the summer months; seven percent of respondents stated that they prepared every meal on the grill when cooking at home

in the summer. However, many backyard grill masters may not feel comfortable operating a fire extinguisher. “That’s where the First Alert EZ Fire Spray comes to the rescue,” says Tarsila Wey, Director of Marketing for First Alert. “The spray can design makes it as easy to use as other familiar household products and convenient to keep on-hand when using the grill.” On top of this, performance tests demonstrate that the discharge time for the EZ Fire Spray is up to four times longer than that of standard household fire extinguishers. With its compact design, the EZ Fire Spray is easy to store and keep close at hand, should an emergency arise while barbequing. The one-time use spray canister contains a powerful, proven liquid firefighting agent that is effective on common household fires including paper, fabric, wood, cooking oil and electrical fires; this agent is non-toxic and easy to clean up. Having fire extinguishers on hand for both indoor and outdoor use— and knowing how to use them—is an essential part of a good home safety plan, knowing that every second counts when a fire arises. To find a First Alert EZ Fire Spray retailer near you, visit firstalert.ca and get ready to enjoy peace of mind as you experience the thrill of the grill this year.