Ottawa at Home | Spring 2016 by Ottawa at Home

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OTTAWA AT HOME SPRING 2016 RENOVATION OTTAWA AT HOME MEDIA INC

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SPRING 2016

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RENOVATION INSIDE & OUT TASTEFUL VENUES AND BABY NURSERY DIY

Renovations: • • • • •

THE GLEBE ROCKCLIFFE WESTBORO MCKELLAR RIDEAU LAKES

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Spring 2016

51 COVER PHOTO BY MARK HOLLERON

04 EDITOR’S NOTE

Renovation patience

> HOME 09 DESIGNER AT HOME

Eclectic style with flea-market flair

12 RENOVATION/TRANSFORMATION

Lifestyle influences with stunning effects on décor

16 RENOVATION/GLEBE

A Glebe home built in the 1920s goes through a thoughtful renovation process

21 GET THE LOOK

Creating an outdoor room

Reflections on the support of St Joe’s Women’s Centre

64 END NOTE

> LIVING

22 NURSERY DÉCOR

41 STEP INSIDE

Angie Poirier decorates a sports- inspired nursery for her new baby

53 GIVING BACK

HGTV’s garden guru Carson Arthur’s sage advice on home improvements

Artful umbrellas

> FOOD 55 FOOD THOUGHTS

Scones for spring

26 KITCHEN/BATH NKBA AWARDS

43 PROFILE

57 LET’S DISH

Inspiring kitchen and bath renovations

Starting the process of moving aging parents

28 RENOVATION/ROCKCLIFFE PARK 44 LIVING MY WAY

A magnificent backyard with pool, outdoor room and playhouse

The community spirit of the new owners of Opinicon Resort

35 CAPITAL COLOURS

49 NEW & NOTABLE

Making a first impression

36 RENOVATION/COTTAGE

Cottage Life Network stars Colin & Justin share their latest Cabin Pressure project

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Treats, style and renovation made easy

Designing a gourmet kitchen

58 DINING OUT

Event venues with stylish food and décor

61 THE SCENE

Craft Beer Market moves into Ottawa, embracing local food and drink

51 STREET SCENE

62 PAULA’S BITES

Checking out musical style in the capital

An innovative way to make individual quiche

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EDITOR’S NOTE

“Patience is not passive; on the contrary, it is active; it is concentrated strength.” — EDWARD G. BULWER-LYTTON

MARY’S MUST-HAVES

ALL IN GOOD TIME As a mother, I throw quotes about patience out to my family. They will hear me say things like, “good things come to those who wait” or “patience is a virtue.” But, I’m not sure that I would be considered the most patient person on a day-to-day basis. I like to see things get done, make quick decisions and don’t like anything holding me back once I have my mind set on an accomplishment. However, I do have the strength to wait things out and understand the importance of timing by waiting for the right time to come around. So, for life as a whole, perhaps I do practice patience. Also, I do believe in the stages of life; that it’s better not to rush through one stage to get to the next, but to savour moments of time and anticipate the future with reservation. Likewise, I see the renovation process in the same way, and it seems that this way of thinking is becoming a trend. Not many people would have the patience to move into an untouched 75-year-old home like the Glebe homeowners in our renovation feature on page (16). But their methodical and unhurried approach ended with spectacular results. A young family in McKellar Park worked carefully with their designer on their home’s makeover, revamping it one room at a time. While they wait for the renovation process to continue, they take the time to thoroughly enjoy the dramatic spaces that have been transformed (page 12). Renovating in stages is sheer brilliance for younger homeowners who are ditching the common attitude of getting it all done right away. This new outlook allows for the facebook.com/OttawaAtHome 4 ottawaathome.ca SPRING 2016

NATURES BOUNTY Make the most of outdoor space with bountiful gardens and creative cooking.

Garden Treasures green bird, weather resistant pillow, evolution of a growing family, takes budget limitations into account and reaps the benefits of waiting to see exactly what you need at exactly the right time. To hear what gardening expert Carson Arthur has to say, check out our Step Inside feature. He talks about how millennials are keen to grow their own vegetables and leave less of a footprint behind, which further confirms our trending theme on the strong virtues of patience by ensuring things are done well, at just the right time, for just the right reasons.

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EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Mary Taggart CREATIVE DIRECTOR Tanya Connolly-Holmes ASSOCIATE EDITOR Jane Whiting PHOTO EDITOR Mark Holleron FOOD EDITOR Paula Roy FOOD CONTRIBUTOR Korey Kealey STYLE/BEAUTY CONTRIBUTOR Melissa Shabinsky CONTRIBUTORS Catherine Clark, Vera Cody, Sandy Connell, Andrew Downward, Katie Hession, Sarah Niman, Kate Brandeis COPY EDITOR Paula Roy WEB EDITOR Olivia Taggart ADVERTISING Shane Belknap Jennifer Tackaberry PRODUCTION Celine Paquette, Regan Van Dusen ADMINISTRATION Patti Moran FINANCE MANAGER Danial Taggart PUBLISHER Mary Taggart FOUNDING PUBLISHER Caroline Andrews

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Contents © 2016. Reproduction of advertisements or articles appearing in Ottawa at Home, in whole or in part, is forbidden without the written permission of the publisher. Ottawa at Home and Ottwa At Home Media Inc. shall not be liable for slight changes or typographical errors that do not lessen the value of an advertisement. The publisher’s liability for other errors or omissions in connection with any advertisement is strictly limited to publication of the advertisement in any subsequent issue or the refund of any monies paid for the advertisement.

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HOMES Designer At Home

THE ART OF COLLECTING THIS PAGE CLOCKWISE: COLLECTED ARTWORK FROM DEAN’S GRANDPARENTS AND SOCIETY6 DISPLAYED ABOVE AN EVE SOFA FROM EQ3 IN COACHELLA COGNAC LEATHER; DEAN LARGE IN HIS LIVING ROOM

THE ART OF THE HUNT BY MARY TAGGART

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK HOLLERON

Interior designer Dean Large has had a slight obsession with anything to do with homes for as long as he can remember. While other young boys were outside playing sports, he would often opt to stay in and help his grandmothers redesign their homes. He credits his fine taste to both of these influential women. “I attribute my love of design and sense of style to my two grandmothers who both have wonderful style. I spent a lot of time as a child with them observing how everything

was thought through with meticulous detail.” And, while most kids look forward to the candy distributed door to door at Halloween, Dean remembers the holiday as an opportunity to step inside homes to catch glimpses of décor inspirations. As one of the principal designers at Astro Design Centre for the past seven years, he has helped clients refine their homes and works in any style that feels right for the space and for the client. Yet, his own home is most definitely eclectic in style. SPRING 2016 ottawaathome.ca 9

DEAN’S TIPS FOR FLEA MARKET SUCCESS 3 Be the first one there 3 Dress the part – if you look like you can afford to pay a lot, you will be charged more than someone who looks less well off. 3 Look for good bones – working drawers, original wood finish etc. 3 Be respectful – treat the vendor well and they may lead you to greater finds 3 Look for individual pieces rather than complete sets

“I attribute my love of design and sense of style to my two grandmothers who both have wonderful style. ” —

DEAN LARGE, INTERIOR DECORATOR

Dean is a keen flea marketer who loves the hunt and the chance to cleverly mix styles and inject personality into his space. Portobello Road Market in London, England is a favourite spot to shop, as is the annual IODE (Imperial Order of the Daughters of the Empire) sale at St. Bartholomew’s in New Edinburgh. The older space in an apartment in a dated Westboro building, which he shares with his fiancé, offers Dean

the opportunity to show off his talents. Although, it may not be quite enough space for him because he keeps another home in the suburbs as well. His fiancé is from London and didn’t like the idea of living in the ‘burbs, so a pied-à-terre in the city was the solution, in addition to offering Dean a greater opportunity to house his wares. There is an effortless approach to his style, which he describes as trying to make spaces look like they just evolved over time. “Nothing actually matches – but everything complements each other. I love deep moody colours and rich textures. I think the best way to make eclectic style look current is to mix it with iconic modern pieces. I have a terrible habit of just buying everything I like – with lots of impulsebought art and chairs,” confesses Dean. Clearly, the results speak for themselves and reveal that Dean Large is definitely a talented designer.

RESTFUL SPACES THIS PAGE CLOCKWISE: SYBIL-CELERY SLINKS ALONG THE COFFEE TABLE IN FRONT OF IKEA’S KIVIK SOFA IN THE DEN; BEDDING IN THE MASTER IS A COMBINATION OF IKEA, KAUFMANN MERCANTILE AND BLANKETS FROM MACAUSLAND WOOLEN MILLS IN PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND; DEAN’S CUSTOM MADE RIDING BOOTS. 10 ottawaathome.ca SPRING 2016

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HOMES Renovation

GLOBAL GLAMOUR 12 ottawaathome.ca SPRING 2016

DRAMATIC RESULTS THIS PAGE CLOCKWISE: GUSTAV METAL SIDE CHAIRS IN THE DINING ROOM, FROM CADIEUX INTERIORS; ONE OF TWO CONCRETE ART PIECES FROM THE BERLIN WALL; MASTER BEDROOM WALLPAPER, DAVID HICKS GROUNDWORKS, “LA FIORENTINA, AERIN LAUDER WALL SCONCE; LIBRARY CHAIR, CADIEUX INTERIORS. FACING PAGE: DESIGNER SUSAN BRYSON (IN WHITE) WITH CLIENTS DAWN AND SIMON. BY JANE WHITING PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK HOLLERON

Typically, the redesign of a home built in the 1960s involves a contemporary makeover to lighten, brighten and open up the space. But a family house in Ottawa’s McKellar Park that had been modernized into a sleek, white box, has now undergone a luxurious transformation into a warm, richly-decorated masterpiece with a distinctive bespoke style. It represents the inspirational vision of world-travelling homeowners Simon and Dawn Melanson, who wanted an upscale eclectic decor to showcase their amazing collection of worldwide treasures. In collaboration with Susan Bryson, an interior designer well known for her skill at mixing global elements, they worked on a room-by-room plan to create a wow factor in each one.

QUALITY OVER QUANTITY Valuing quality over quantity in all things is the Melanson mantra, explains Simon, a director with the Canadian Coast Guard who travels extensively and has lived overseas. “We have cultivated a unique collection of antiquities, art and furniture from over forty countries during the last two decades. Almost every piece in our house is a touchstone to a special time and place in our lives, as individuals and as a family.” Having worked on three previous homes,

Simon and Dawn understand that mixing and matching different eras and influences can be tricky. “If it’s not done right, it can look like a flea market,” says Simon, who credits Susan for helping them find the perfect balance of contrast without crossing the line into chaos. The designer describes the project as injecting the Melanson’s style to completely transform each room into a curated work of art with warm colours, custom cabinetry and trim, textiles and wallpaper. Her first focus was to create a library and lounge area with a SPRING 2016 ottawaathome.ca 13

also the favourite hangout for the couple’s two young daughters, seven-year-old Olivia and Grace, who is four. The girls have their own reading area and chairs, with quite a collection of Harry Potter books – proving them to be little collectors in the making!

WORLDLY TREASURES

PRETTY IN PINK THIS PAGE: OLIVIA READS ON HER BED, DRESSED IN POTTERY BARN LINENS; KRAVET WALLPAPER AND JONATHAN ADLER WALL SCONCE; HEADBOARD, BED SKIRT, DUVET COVER, CUSTOM DESIGNED BY SUSAN, WORK DONE AT C&M TEXTILES; BERGÈRE CHAIR, RESTORATION HARDWARE, SIDE TABLE CADIEUX INTERIORS; GRACE AT HER MAKE-UP TABLE FROM IKEA

Hemingwayesque reading room. “We went with a beautiful textured-velvet fabric on the club chairs to team them up with a South African zebra ottoman,” says Susan. “Dark, rustic wood shelving displays their unique artifacts, and Lucy lights by Robert Abbey were added to complement the bordeaux-coloured walls.” While the library may fit perfectly with a smoking jacket and cigars, the room is

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The dining room reno began with moving the space into the former living room to best utilize its size and make a grand impact upon entry. It is anchored by a ten-foot harvest table in the centre, crafted by Ontario Mennonites with reclaimed hemlock from a century-old barn. “If you look closely, you can see the hoof marks, gauges and nail holes,” notes Simon, who used the same wood for the custom floating shelves in the library. Yet the most fascinating jewels in this room are two 400-pound concrete pieces of the Berlin Wall positioned on either side of the fireplace. They were taken from Potsdamer Platz and Checkpoint Charlie shortly after the fall of the wall in 1989, and painted by Jay One Ramier (one of the pioneers of graffiti art in Europe). However, Simon emphasises that they are more than just beautiful pieces of art to him. “They are a connection to my heritage; a reminder of how my grandparents escaped from East Germany and started over again in Canada. I can feel the history, heartache and sounds of Cold War Berlin emanating from the concrete. One day, our daughters will each get one these unique pieces.” For now, the girls get to enjoy their new bedrooms. “We had a lot of fun designing their rooms in a Pottery Barn style with Indian-inspired colours,” says Susan. “The headboards are upholstered in fuchsia and pink velvet, walls covered with David Hicks wallpaper and windows draped in silk by C&M Textiles who supplied all the fabric in the home.” The main jewel in the redesigned master bedroom is a hand-knotted red rug from Afghanistan. It serves not only to deliver a warm and welcoming splash of colour, but Simon adds, “It’s a small nod to some of the difficult places that we have travelled to and survived to tell the stories.” With the living room, kitchen and bathrooms still to be renovated, Simon is enthusiastic about continuing to work with Susan. “She has helped us create a home that reflects our authentic selves; our love of life and adventure, family and travel. She is a master at creating incredible, functional spaces that make you want to stay and linger.”

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HOMES Glebe Renovation

ALL IN GOOD TIME! BY MARY TAGGART

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK HOLLERON

They say patience is a virtue, and for two savvy homeowners this virtuous quality paid off and helped them get the home they wanted at an affordable price. Nearly fifteen years ago, the couple looked at a corner property in the Glebe – but it was out of their price range and in need of a lot of work. Built in 1925, the home had never been renovated. Not even a fresh coat of paint had hit the walls of the Tudor-style house since construction, but its charms struck the youthful couple who were ready to buy their dream home at the right price. After they passed on the property, it was taken off the market and re-listed the following year in January 2002 at a more affordable price.

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The dynamic pair took possession in May 2002 as the home’s third owners. They were married in the backyard that summer and now have two sons. The boys, along with two sisters from their father’s previous marriage, called for more familyfriendly space so renovations have been ongoing. Now, with the latest changes, the process is finally complete. The first phase of renovations took place in 2007 when the home was completely gutted, and 1,000 square feet was added to create a large kitchen area and master suite above. A bedroom was added to the renovated basement along with a TV/playroom. While this renovation created more space for the family, it didn’t

MODERN ELEGANCE THIS PAGE CLOCKWISE: INFORMAL BREAKFAST NOOK OFF THE KITCHEN AND DINING ROOM; COFFEE BAR; ASTER CUCINE GOURMET KITCHEN; CUSTOM MADE CALCUTTA MARBLE DINING TABLE BY GEORGE PINTO. FACING PAGE CLOCKWISE: FIREPLACE FROM HUBERT’S HEATING, COFFEE TABLE, MITCHELL GOLD; SILVER CARPET FROM MITCHELL GOLD GROUNDS THE SPACE AND COORDINATES WITH THE MIXED METAL IN THE LIVING ROOM.

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quite bring the house to its ultimate level of style and sophistication that was achieved with last year’s renovation. Designer Dean Large, with Astro Design Centre, spearheaded the latest project. In a symbiotic relationship, Dean worked with the homeowners to create family-friendly spaces as well as chic adult-friendly rooms, like the ultra stylish living and dining areas and the stunning gourmet kitchen. The front entry sets the tone for the out-of-the-ordinary décor. A dramatic custom marble mosaic tile complements the space beautifully and balances contemporary and traditional elements carried throughout the home. Living in the home for a while gave the homeowners a strong sense of what they ultimately wanted with this latest transformation. It was the discerning eye of the fastidious owners that called for opening up the hallway and widening the doorways from the entry that lead to both the living and dining rooms. These changes instantly gave an airy feeling to the traditional space. Dean is credited with cleverly transforming the kitchen, which had been renovated in 2007, but never felt quite right. He shifted the entire use of the space and even incorporated a breakfast bar and sitting area for morning coffee and paper reading. White cabinetry by Aster Cucine in a matte-lacquer finish dominates the kitchen and enhances the aesthetic that is complemented with Calacatta marble on both counters and backsplash. While the feeling is contemporary, some rustic injections add warmth, such as the wishbone chairs and harvest-style table. The mudroom off the kitchen fulfilled mom’s dreams of keeping her sons’ hockey gear out of sight. Locker-room inspired cupboards are a slick solution to the quandary of cluttered closets for most Canadian families, and the ample wooden bench in the centre offers practical styling. The entire home is a tribute to the thoughtful approach of the effervescent homeowners in finding the perfect family home. The step-and-stage process they took with their renovations proves that patience really does pay off and offers long-standing benefits to those who are prepared to wait for what’s worth having.

OPEN SPACES A TILE WALL SEPARATES THE CLOSET FROM THE BEDROOM IN THE MASTER SUITE WITHOUT CLOSING OFF THE ROOM; THE RENOVATION OPENED UP SPACE TO CREATE AN AIRY FEELING IN THE HALLWAYS; AN AMPLE SIZED, HIGH FUNCTIONING MUDROOM WAS A MUST.

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HOMES Nursery

MADE BY ANGIE

NURSERY DIY BY MARY TAGGART PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK HOLLERON

Angie Poirier, the popular, vivacious radio and TV host with Majic 100 & CTV, affirms that there will be no more babies arriving in the future at the home she shares with husband Adam Côté and her two daughters Ava (12) and Mila (9). So, she approached the nursery décor for her newborn son Nash with an element of frugality and loads of personal touches. Rather than go for a

traditional baby-themed nursery, a masculine approach was taken for the décor of the little guy’s room. Adam had recently created a space for himself in the basement and they decided to adopt the same style for Nash’s room. “We opted out of doing a baby theme and went for sort of a mini-man cave feel,” says Angie. “My husband just spent the last year building

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MADE BY ANGIE

his man cave while renovating our basement and we ended up adopting the same feel and colour scheme as daddy’s man cave into baby’s room.” Adam’s favourite basketball team, the Syracuse Orange, inspired the colour scheme. Grey, navy and white are injected with pops of orange to pull the theme together. A workshop-inspired pegboard hangs over the dresser to keep baby tools organized. This was a clever DIY project for Angie who collected frames, toys and tools to decorate it with. They also opted out of the classic rocking chair to go with a more masculine leather bucket chair and orange footrest. Everyone is thrilled with the look of the room, which came together as they moved towards being a family of five. “The nursery concept was fun for Adam and I to run with. The girls love how it turned out so much, they often just go hang out in there to read and play on their electronics,” reveals Angie. Urban Barn décor graces the walls along with another man-cave influence from close friend, renowned sports artist Tony Harris who is the husband of CTV Morning Live host Lianne Laing. He gave Angie and Adam a Martin Brodeur print, which shares the nursery with a chevron-papered wall and trellis-patterned drapes to create a soft and chic feeling to the space. The entire family is pitching in with baby duty. Mila has chosen to be the official diaper changer, while Ava is in charge of which outfit her brother will wear throughout the day. Angie will return to her Majic 100 morning show co-host chair in August, when Adam stays at home on paternity leave. Angie is thrilled for Adam to have the opportunity to take over while she heads back to work and says, “I took a year’s maternity leave with each of my girls, so I was more than happy to divide this time with him. Luckily my hours allow me to get back home to them by lunch anyway.” Her return to work may be bittersweet as Angie does not know yet when her co-host Stuntman Stu will be sitting next to her. Stu Schwartz was diagnosed with Leukemia in February and Angie has been heartbroken and in shock ever since. Her sorrow is tempered with pride at his resilience. “Seeing him as the inspiring and determined cancer warrior that he is has become is nothing short of incredible. I have no doubt that we will be back together doing what we both love very soon.”

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Dymon has radically reinvented the self-storage industry

Providing flexible, secure solutions for a wide range of needs You are not alone if you have driven by a Dymon Storage facility and thought it was a fancy condo or office building. Step inside, and you might be even more surprised at what you’ll find. In just eight years, the Ottawa-based Dymon Group has radically reinvented the storage business. They’ve done so by creating bright, welcoming state-of-the-art facilities offering flexible, efficient storage solutions that serve a multitude of different purposes. In addition, they have expanded the storage business to include a whole variety of complementary products and services. Dymon is a true Ottawa success story. “Gone are the days when your only self-

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storage option was a plain, single storey building in the middle of an industrial park or field,” explains Steve Creighton, Senior Vice President at Dymon. “Traditionally these types of facilities had garage doors, minimal security, no climate control, and virtually no focus on customer service.” One of the biggest Dymon differentiators is convenience. “We’ve selected high traffic locations adjacent to big box retail,” says Creighton. “No matter where you live in town, there’s a Dymon Storage facility nearby that is easily accessible. Our store associates are available to serve you during extended retail

hours and we offer secure 24/7 access. Our large drive-in bays mean you can load or unload items regardless of the weather. Our free truck and driver offer is also extremely popular – we’ve made the whole process stress-free for our customers.” Due to its large volume and bundle discounts, Dymon is now Ottawa’s largest retailer of moving supplies and boxes. Dymon also offers eco-friendly plastic bins for rental that are perfect for personal or business moves. Dymon even offers convenient drive-in secure shredding services. There are a whole variety of reasons why

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people rent with Dymon. “Home sellers use Dymon extensively. It is a proven fact that a decluttered, well-staged home will sell more quickly and at a higher price,” says Creighton. “Dymon is also great if you are downsizing your home but are not ready to get rid of your excess belongings.” Dymon currently has eight Ottawa locations with its newest store opening this spring at Greenbank and Hunt Club. An additional twelve facilities are planned in Ottawa over the next five years, and the company has just announced a ten year expansion plan that will see eighty Dymon Storage facilities built in the Toronto area. While residential customers are a significant portion of Dymon’s business, the company has also experienced a strong growth of commercial customers as companies store business records, furniture and equipment, excess inventory and seasonal merchandise. “Both small home-based businesses as well as large corporations like the

flexibility of our lease terms, our security, our total climate and humidity controlled facilities and our virtual office solutions including

We’ve selected high traffic locations adjacent to big box retail. No matter where you live in town, there’s a Dymon Storage facility nearby that is easily accessible. executive boardrooms, mini offices, post office boxes, courier drop off and pick up, safety deposit boxes and WiFi access throughout our facilities,” adds Creighton. Another unique service offered by Dymon

is its on-line marketplace called DymonMine. com which allows customers to sell products they have in storage. It’s a unique app that allows people to bid on items they find on the DymonMine.com website. People love it because it’s hassle-free and very secure, removing the worries about meeting anonymous buyers in their homes. Dymon has totally changed the way people think about storage. “Dymon’s success has been unparalleled in the industry,” notes Creighton. “We are extremely proud of how the Dymon brand has taken hold in our local community. The outstanding features of our facilities, the quality and commitment of our store associates and our relentless focus on meeting and exceeding the expectations of our customers have all led to this success.” Now that spring is here, there’s no better time to declutter your home or business. Check out Dymon for all of your storage needs. You have to see it to believe it.

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HOMES Events

CLASSIC/TRADITIONAL BATHROOM

WINNING DESIGNS BY MARY TAGGART

The Ottawa Chapter of the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) held its annual awards ceremony in April to honour the best in design for both kitchen and bath. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a perfect opportunity for local professionals to show off their talents in the industry, and Ottawa At Home has selected four outstanding submissions to show what goes into creating award-winning kitchen and bath designs.

CLASSIC/TRADITIONAL BATHROOM Nathan Kyle of Astro Design Centre designed this master bathroom for a classically-traditional suburban home. Nathan chose 6 x36-inch porcelain floor tiles in ivory, and went with a honed-finished wall tile in silver travertine with a handsculpted subway tile on the shower and vanity wall. While the look is classic, there is a slick edge with a walk-in shower and the unexpected use of travertine. The Oceania tub is a standout feature, and the 60-inch vanity with a 36-inch trough allows for two sinks to incorporate style with function.

SUBMISSION BY NATHAN KYTE / DOUBLESPACE PHOTOGRAPHY

CLASSIC/TRADITIONAL KITCHEN

SUBMITTED BY DARREN WALKER/ MIV PHOTOGRAPHY

CLASSIC/TRADITIONAL KITCHEN In collaboration with Cornelis Grey Construction, Darren Walker of Kitchen Craft designed a kitchen in the heart of a home that celebrates the best of family living. 26 ottawaathome.ca SPRING 2016

With ample counter space and a thoughtful floor plan, the kitchen not only wows in looks but is also high in functionality. Concrete counters combined with butternut wood add rustic touches

that suit the overall feeling of the home. The reclaimed pine floors, a freestanding induction oven and LED lighting all contribute to the environmentally-friendly kitchen in this fossil-fuel-free home.

ASK THE EXPERT

CONTEMPORARY/MODERN KITCHEN

Katy Belanger, Interior Design Consultant Westboro Flooring & Decor

are the most popular QWhat trends in flooring?

SUBMITTED BY LORIN RUSSELL/ MUSKOKA / JAKUB ULAK

CONTEMPORARY/MODERN KITCHEN In this contemporary condo kitchen, designed in collaboration with Lorin Russell for Muskoka Cabinet Company and architect Jakub Ulak for Surface Developments, flatpanel cabinets in rich cherry wood appear to float along the wall and set the tone for fluid design throughout the space.

The kitchen is the focal point for the entire condo unit. Oversized windows dominate the space and the kitchen’s clean design plays up the need for little decoration within a space that naturally speaks for itself. Modern suspended lighting and curved, high-back barstools set a stylish tone and offer just the right touch of drama.

CONTEMPORARY/MODERN BATHROOM

SUBMITTED BY HEATHER TARDIOLI/LAURYSEN / MARC FOWLER

CONTEMPORARY/MODERN BATHROOM Heather Tardioli with Laurysen Kitchens created a clean, modern look in this luxurious bathroom with Italian Melamine cabinets in Frati Musa and a Caesarstone quartz countertop in Nougat. The glassblock wall was an existing feature in the room that Heather

embraced for its brightening effect on the space and the overall feel of a barrier-free room with floating cabinets and walk in shower. The relatively neutral colour scheme suits the contemporary space and creates a sophisticated environment, complimented by Benjamin Moore’s Revere Pewter on the walls.

This past January I had the opportunity to attend the Surfaces International flooring tradeshow in Las Vegas. This show features the top manufactures, products and trends in flooring. Some of the most notable trends are increasing use of geometric patterns. These patterns are prominent in all types of flooring; tile, area rugs and wall to wall carpet now feature two-tone geometric patterns that give any room a contemporary twist. These patterns are also appearing in fabric, clothing fashion and home décor. In hardwood flooring we are seeing a movement towards wider planks, as well as patterned installations mixing different board widths to create patterns. The traditional herringbone is back in full force. In terms of colours, hardwood in Canada is still seeing a whitewashed or Scandinavian look with muted whites, grey and beige being the new introductions for 2016. The most popular finishes at the moment are very low sheen, 10% gloss, UV Oil or matte giving a modern vintage look. Also popular are the texturized hardwoods, wire brushed or hand scraped, which is great for hiding wear and tear from a busy lifestyle. Window fashions are also changing. People living in condos are turning to drapery to create warmth in a space, layered with blinds for privacy, noise reduction and energy conservation. Don’t be afraid to think outside of the box. There are many ways to achieve a specific look. We love to see people creating their own version of a popular trend. SPRING 2016 ottawaathome.ca 27

HOMES InStyle

PRIORITY IN THE GARDEN BY SARAH NIMAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK HOLLERON

Two outdoor-enthusiast homeowners bought a Rockcliffe Park home eight years ago for its garden potential. Although the house required top-to-bottom renovations, the lush yard held such promise that it was worth a leap of faith. The couple quickly began creating a lifestyle for their two children and family dog Bella that revolves around the backyard. It started with planting perennials in existing garden spaces to reflect their own Frenchinspired tastes, and replacing a pathway encircling the garden with more modernlooking stones. While the homeowners did much of the yard renovation themselves, they called upon contractors to help with the heavy lifting and outsourced some design and labour work to Georges Haddad, owner of Heritage Landscape Design and to Andre Godin Design. They tore down the dated sunroom and replaced it with a pergola of their own design, while adding a loggia designed by Godin that overlooks the sauvage shade garden.

28 ottawaathome.ca SPRING 2016

The family opts to forego any summer travel to spend every possible moment ...

DOG DAYS THIS PAGE, CLOCKWISE: BELLA ENJOYS AN AFTERNOON SWIM; TOUCH OF GLAMOUR IN A LUXURIOUS BACKYARD; THE FORMER PLAYHOUSE IS NOW A GARDEN SHED; A DINING AREA IS ADJACENT TO THE POOL. FACING PAGE, CLOCKWISE: ANDRE GODIN DESIGNED THE OUTDOOR LIVING ROOM;STONE PATHWAYS SCATTERED WITH PERENNIALS AROUND THE GARDENS; AN ABUNDANCE OF LOUNGING SPACE IN THE POOL AREA. SPRING 2016 ottawaathome.ca 29

kitchen • bath • lighting • accessories

The Details Make The Difference Design & Cabinetry by Astro. Lighting by Visual Comfort & Co.

info.astrodesigncentre.com/consultations | 613.749.1902 | 1818 Woodward Dr. Ottawa 30 ottawaathome.ca SPRING 2016

The loggia is an impressive and invitingly cozy space that beckons you to crack open a book, pour a drink, lift your feet and relax. An epitome of outdoor living, the space boasts a hanging light fixture in solid wood, stone fireplace, coffee table and plenty of seating to suit solitary or group huddles by the fireside as a summer sun sets. A more formal French garden in full sun approaches the pool, which has been modernized to a salt-water system. The homeowners also moved a garden shed, which was built as a child’s playhouse 25 years ago, to the other side of the yard when they first moved in. While their kids enjoyed it for many years, it is now back to being a garden shed, but a unique one with two beds and a sink!

Meet Uuni 2

UNITING HOME WITH OUTDOOR LIVING As they renovated their L-shaped home, special care was made to maximize views of the same-shaped yard from nearly every room in the house. Two years after beginning, the pergola, eating area, in-ground pool, loggia with fireplace, two small ponds, playhouse-turned-garden shed and two mature gardens were complete, and continue to make for a magical escape from the everyday. Though the homeowners theorize the yard is at its most beautiful in spring when shrubs are in full bloom, they make full use of it from early spring to late fall. The family opts to forego any summer travel to spend every possible moment in a yard that beckons wildlife (wild turkey, fox and neighbourhood cats), boasts a garden that blooms all summer long, and has outdoor living spaces that are both inviting and private. The couple continues to oversee their own yard maintenance, hiring local kids to help with weeding. Pride in her garden keeps the homeowner’s hands in the dirt, and she visibly lights up when reminiscing of past summers spent in her yard with her children, claiming it’s a large measure of her happiness quotient. It’s a space that is used daily and every year, she adds new annuals, trying unique varieties, adhering to a purple, green and white colour scheme. This haven for the tenets of outdoor living is where the family devotes their leisure time. They eat outdoors every day when weather allows, swim in the pool multiple times a day, sit by a crackling wood fire at least once a week, and host guests at every opportunity.

Uuni 2 is a wood fired oven with baking stone that reaches 900F in just 10 minutes and cooks pizza in under 90 seconds. Uuni 2 is powered by energy dense and inexpesive wood pelletes. Uuni 2 is the definitive tool for your garden, cottage or outdoor kitchen.

Available at

CA Paradis/The Chef’s Paradise 1314 Bank St (At Riverdale) Open 7 days www.chefsparadise.ca SPRING 2016 ottawaathome.ca 31

INTERIORS

WHERE ROOMS ROOMS BECOME BECOME AMAZING AMAZING WHERE

32 ottawaathome.ca SPRING 2016

1280 Old Innes Road, Ottawa 613-745-1230 1280 Old Innes Road, Ottawa 613-745-1230

CADIEUXINTERIORS.CA CADIEUXINTERIORS.CA

SPRING 2016 ottawaathome.ca 33

IT’S WHAT’S ON THE

SURFACE THAT COUNTS. Especially when what’s on the surface is Emerald ® paint

by Sherwin-Williams. The best dressed homes wear Emerald.

sherwin-williams.ca

34 ottawaathome.ca SPRING 2016

HOME Capital Colours

Front doors around the world serve as a reflection of the homeowner and they can send a very powerful message to guests before they even step inside.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS BY ANDREW DOWNWARD

@ANDREWDOWNWARD IMAGES SUPPLIED

There is nothing more beautiful than Ottawa in springtime. The stunning pageantry of colours at the annual Tulip Festival, the opening of the waterways, and the greening of Parliament Hill all make Ottawa truly irresistible. Busloads of students and tens of thousands of visitors from abroad are yearly testimonials that springtime in Ottawa is special! If you’re like me, springtime means a renewed focus on all things outside. I start with the annual spring clean-up, then inevitably turn my attention to exterior painting projects. I don’t like to tackle anything crazy like painting the whole house, but opt for smaller projects that can

be completed in the least amount of time with the maximum impact. My favourite is a fresh coat of paint on the front door. Front doors around the world serve as a reflection of the homeowner and they can send a very powerful message to guests before they even step inside. So, be sure to create a good first impression by not only offering up a door colour that sets the right tone for your welcoming message, but also shows you take pride in your home. For those of you who subscribe to the feng shui approach to home décor, your front door should be painted red to honour the idea of creating a welcome energy. Painting your front door a vivid colour also means using the right kind of paint and application to ensure that the colour can withstand our harsh Canadian winters. Your first step is to choose a colour that is right for you and your home. I love a classic black finish, but also find vibrant colours create a great deal of interest and

personality. I also recommend that an oil finish in either a semi or gloss finish be used. The application of the paint is extremely important. Before you start, make sure you have a warm day, at least 15 C, to complete your project. If you are really committed to do the best job possible, plan on removing the door so that you can paint it lying flat. Oil paint will settle with gravity so having the door flat will allow the paint to settle perfectly. If you can’t stomach taking off your door, at the very least, remove all the hardware, (door handle and lock), before you paint. This will allow for even horizontal strokes. Sand and remove all imperfections in the door prior to applying paint. Then, using a small sponge roller, apply paint thinly and evenly over the entire door. Let the first coat dry, lightly sand then apply the final coat. Replace the door hardware when paint is completely dry and enjoy the fruits of your labour. SPRING 2016 ottawaathome.ca 35

HOMES Cottage Renovation

COLIN AND JUSTIN’S COTTAGE TRANSFORMATION BY COLIN MCALLISTER & JUSTIN RYAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRANDON BARRÉ

In the Cottage Life Network series Cabin Pressure, internationally acclaimed designers Colin and Justin transformed a Muskoka cottage, featured in Ottawa At Home Spring 2015. Now with Cabin Pressure Season 2 they have turned their attentions to a ramshackle Haliburton fixer-upper where they worked with contractor Randy Blain to dramatically transform the space. To say the renovation was a big job is an understatement! Ottawa At Home gets some insights on the renovation and decorating process from the design duo. Colin and Justin on the process:

SLEEPING ARRANGEMENTS Cleaning up our cottage act to the max, we turn our attention to the former laundry, 36 ottawaathome.ca SPRING 2016

COTTAGE STYLE THIS PAGE, CLOCKWISE: BARN DOORS FROM REBARN.CA, BEDDING HOMESENSE; BEDS, ARTEMANO FACING PAGE, CLOCKWISE: DARK GROUT ADDS DRAMATIC STYLE TO CLASSIC WHITE SUBWAY TILES; STONE SINK UNIKSTONE.CA; FURNISHINGS FROM URBAN BARN; KITCHEN CABINETS FROM IKEA; BLACK WINDOWS AND DOORS FROM EVW.CA

whose transformation into a guest bedroom was made possible by creating new washing facilities in the basement. A cute wee table and chairs, positioned in front of the window, trick the mind into ‘seeing’ extra-perceived space because of the additional function. Next up was a spot of upcycling, which we tackled by using discarded boards from our old dock. Sanded back to life, fitted from wall to wall and shelved, they make a commanding statement in the rebirthed guest space. Overspend on a project? Not us! An IKEA double bed with drawers in the base amplifies storage. Dressed with space saving bracketed ‘night stand’ crates - and attired with Homesense throws and pillows - the tangerine and brown vignette is atmospherically redolent of cottages from days gone by. Next up - another guest bedroom. To increase ‘connection’ to the great outdoors, we installed an outsized window. A dramatic move, perhaps, but just look at that transformation! To proffer a modern esthetic, we opted for white painted drywall ‘topped and tailed’ with timber. The brushed oak flooring is hardwearing and attractive, its oiled 8” boards adding a ‘heritage’ vibe. A wooden bed suffuses the guest chamber with an organic ‘sensibility’, while gnarled wooden stools (topped with glass to extend their surface) and anglepoise lamps make it ergonomically sound. Upstairs, the galleried master, as we found it, had a boxy feel with pine cladding and peeling wallpaper. Removing the lowered ceiling (before recladding it with walnut stained pine) revealed a monumental peaked space, the extra width and height delivers bags of character. In keeping with the loft apartment vibe (hello – condo at the lake?) we added a statuesque brushed steel bed and timber topped nightstands. The resultant look is modern but friendly, thanks to layers of faux fur, woolen throws and a scattering of plump, yielding cushions. Note how the pops of red add drama.

THE BATHS The guest bedroom complete, it was time for Cabin Pressure ‘Game of Thrones’. Let’s be honest: this bathroom, as we found it, was a stylistic and visual washout. And with carpet? Yuk: the devil’s own harbinger of human excretions: toe nails and mouse poop. But we can fix anything. To streamline, we specified flush mounted pot lights and, space SPRING 2016 ottawaathome.ca 37

being compromised, under floor energy efficient floor Warm Up heating. Softest graphite marble proffers an indulgent feel, while dreamy ebony-toned taps and storage niches are cute finishing details. Sweet, huh? To serve as a vanity below the new window, we cut live-edged hemlock into a tapered wedge and topped it with a stone sink. Further visual softening comes from the wood-topped stool and the naturallyshed deer antler found in the forest surrounding our cabin. Details, right? Further detail comes from the salvaged wood barn doors, behind which lies the ceramic-tiled ensuite. We opted for a long steel framed Unikstone vanity which, topped with a custom black faucet, oozes ‘modern cottage’. If you follow our work, you’ll know we love trolling antique barns and thrift stores for items to upcycle. Examples of this are the ten-buck shoe moulds, which we sanded, sprayed black and arranged in a neat row as towel storage.

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COME SEE uS

at the Ottawa Womens Show April 16-17: Shaw Centre

Next up was the kitchen rejig. First job? Removing the walls and opening the space to the main, double height living zone. A tall rear elevation of white IKEA cabinets conceals built-in refrigeration and a sink, while a run of units topped with concrete Caesarstone form a breakfast bar that contains an built-in hob and oven. Our final destination was the living/ dining room. Swapping out rickety windows and doors for larger, blackframed alternatives transformed our cottage externally and internally. Furniture is spaced into two areas – sitting and dining - with a relaxed sofa providing the familiar ‘lived in’ look you get with soft brown leather. The live-edged dining table delivers a wow factor and is clustered with Wegner-style wishbone chairs. To warm the space, we added a compact wood stove, which, flanked with vintage chairs, is a fabulous focal point and somewhere to nest to when temperatures plunge. See the brand new season of ‘Colin and Justin’s Cabin Pressure’ on Cottage Life, Sundays at 9pm. Visit www.cottagelife.ca ‘Game of Homes’, a competition reno series with a house as first prize, features Colin and Justin as judges. Tuesdays at 10pm. on The W Network. Visit www.wnetwork.com for info.

SPRING 2016 ottawaathome.ca 39

RESOURCE GUIDE

Custom Designer ACTUAL Design & Decor

Personally Yours Interiors

Sometimes you want a big change. Custom hand painted wallcoverings Sometimes you just need a fresh and kitchen backsplash. Unique perspective. Together we’ll define a designs range from ultra-modern to style that is Personally Yours. vintage-inspired patterns and inspired 613.841.1277 by our flora and fauna. debbie@personallyyoursinteriors.com 613-698.6993 personallyyoursinteriors.com actdesigndecor@gmail.com actdesigndecor.com StyleHaus Interiors Interior Design for the Home or Designers & Decorators Cottage. Our goal is to create spaces Decorating Den Interiors | for living that are functional, beautiful Saree Parry Designs and a reflection of clients’ individual We’ll help you fall in love with style while delivering quality, value, your home - for the first time and exceptional customer service. or all over again. 613-292-4426 613-841-3326 info@stylehausinteriors.com saree.decoratingden.com stylehausinteriors.com

DETAILS HOME APPAREL

Experts in custom home planning, renovations, upgrades and fitup. Specializing in the whole home package including bathrooms, kitchens, cabinetry, furnishings, finishing and window treatments. 613-745-8484 info@dha-inc.ca

Jennifer McGahan Interiors

Your premier Ottawa Design firm specializing in Custom Kitchen and Bath design. We offer full service project management for your large renovation from drawing to finished space. Let us re-work your space to suit your lifestyle needs, improve the value of your home, and make it beautiful! 613-762-2093 jennifermcgahaninteriors.com

Hay Design Furnishings & Decor

Hay Design offers a full range of interior design services such as in-home consultations, furniture selection, renovations, permit drawings, and much more! info@haydesign.ca 613-201-9119 haydesign.ca shophaydesign.com 40 ottawaathome.ca SPRING 2016

Yvonne Potter Interior Design

Modern Residential Interiors. I offer guidance through the design and implementation process, using AutoCAD drawings as the main tool for communicating ideas. My specialties include interior architectural design, bespoke furniture design and built-in elements that optimize functionality and reflect your passion for style and comfort. 613. 301. 6068 yvonne@yvonnepotter.com yvonnepotter.com

GROW WITH US! DESIGNERS, PAINTERS, ELECTRICIANS, HANDYMAN, CONTRACTORS AND OTHER DESIGN INDUSTRY TRADESPEOPLE THE BLACKBOOK IS AN IDEAL OPPORTUNITY TO REACH NEW CLIENTS! TO BOOK YOUR AD IN OTTAWA AT HOME’S BLACKBOOK, DESIGN INDUSTRY RESOURCE GUIDE, CONTACT SHANE BELKNAP, SHANE@OTTAWAATHOME.CA

Susan Bryson Interior Design Susan Bryson is passionate about creating beautiful design. Susan’s signature style combines elegance with a modern sensibility while staying true to classic design principles. Susan draws global inspiration from her cosmopolitan background as a fashion model and extensive world travel. Susan’s interiors have a sophisticated and chic aesthetic with a timeless quality. She likes to mix elements to create dramatic tension and add layers with art, colour and a variety of textures. 613.863.0638 info@susanbrysoninteriors.com susanbrysoninteriors.com Best of Houzz 2015 & 2016

painters PG PAINT & DESIGN

Interior & Exterior Painting, 30+ yrs knowledge & experience. Quality, detailed workmanship, trusted & reliable. Contact us for a free estimate. 613-656-5865 pgpaintanddesign.com

Renovators Carolyn Munro Design+Build

With many years of experience in residential design and construction, we have designed, renovated or built beautiful homes which families are now enjoying. carolyn@cmdesignbuild.com 613-831-9984 cmdesignbuild.com

LIVING Step Inside

GARDEN IMPRESSIONS BY VERA CODY PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK HOLLERON

THE DIRT ON HOME IMPROVEMENTS FROM THE OUTSIDE To Carson Arthur, the HGTV all-star outdoor living expert, life is all about being in the right place at the right time. Graduating from the University of Windsor with a degree in communications, he decided that the rigidity and the confines of an office desk job were not in his longterm career plans; working outdoors was where he felt most at home. So, at 29 he enrolled at Humber College in a landscape design program. Not realizing it was a co-op program, Carson discovered he needed to find a six-week summer job after making plans to go on an African safari. It was a good switch, as he ended up being hired by the television show Get Growing as a behind-the-scenes prop person, where he pitched ideas to studio producers. Then he was offered his own outdoor living improvements show Room to Grow (Global/Prime TV). Carson’s next shows were on HGTV. Green Force showcased eco-conscious gardening and then Critical Listing featured homeowners learning how to renovate their existing outdoor space to get the maximum resale value. These shows earned him a nomination for a Viewers’ Choice Award for Lifestyles Host at the 2005 Gemini awards.

In April he is part of twenty HGTV superstars in the ten-part TV series Home to Win, where Canadians compete to win an average house which has been remodelled into the ultimate dream home. His boundless energy and enthusiasm for all things outdoors has made him a soughtafter expert on CBC TV and Cityline. Carson wrote his best-selling book Garden Design for Outdoor Living: Social Gatherings because he was inundated with requests for his outdoor living space blueprint designs. His upcoming book highlights how to use your backyard as a survival space or refuge. Who isn’t afraid of a Zombie apocalypse? Carson already has his escape-plan strategy and will go to his six-acre farm in Prince Edward County where he can disappear among his chickens, vineyards and vegetable gardens.

HOW DO YOU ENJOY YOUR OUTDOOR SPACE? In the spring I get so excited to be outside – taking my time getting the gardens cleaned up and having that humility with nature. Summertime is all about entertaining my friends and having them over for a meal I have prepared while sitting around the outdoor fireplace. It’s blankets, books and fireplaces in the fall. I love snow activities in the winter and being outside in the cold. I’m a Canadian boy so why not embrace it?

HOW DO DIFFERENT GENERATIONS APPROACH THE OUTDOORS? Baby boomers are focused on downsizing to a more manageable space. They still like to garden, but not on a grand scale and they enjoy entertaining their family and friends in the backyard. Generation X spends money on creating a perfect backyard oasis instead of buying a

second home or cottage, and concentrates on their return on investment. Firsttime, home-buying Millennials look for curb appeal and want to grow vegetables in their backyard and leave less of a footprint.

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVOURITE VALUE-ADDED ELEMENTS FOR THE HOMEOWNER? Your home’s first impression can make an eight-percent difference to its worth. Our homes are our largest asset, so we want to ensure any improvements increase its value. Do not spend more than 20 percent of your home value on the outdoors because you are not going to see a return on your investment past that point. Make your renovations lifestyle appropriate. Go bigger because you are going to use it. Decks and patios add increased yearlong living space. Outdoor kitchens are popular as most people wish they had a larger kitchen entertaining space. Outdoor fireplaces are also on most wish lists. If you add to your backyard and your neighbours don’t, you can see anywhere from 10-15 percent increased home value over your neighbours, even if you have the exact same house.

WHAT’S TRENDING FOR 2016? Growing heirloom vegetables in raised planters is very popular. Container gardening has changed as you can also grow edible items like lemon and grapefruit trees and then bring them indoors. Last year I started a large raisedvegetable bed at my farm and this year we are planting peppers and eggplants. I’m planting heirloom seeds from Edible Antiques in my two-acre field to help propagate and provide more food diversity in the marketplace. SPRING 2016 ottawaathome.ca 41

42 ottawaathome.ca SPRING 2016

LIVING Personal Profile

STARTING SMALL BY KATE BRANDEIS PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK HOLLERON

I started raising the issue with my mom years ago. At first, it was more insinuation than anything with jokes about her “collection issues” and the epic tag sale I would hold after she was gone. But, as she approached eighty, the conversation began to change . . . My mom is a stuff person. I am not. Yet, the accumulation of five lifetimes of saving and collecting (great-grandmother, grandmother, mom, me and now my kids) was confronting both of us each time I visited. “What am I going to do with all of this?” she would ask, “You won’t want any of it.” I assured her that I understood that her things held great meaning for her, and they would for us as well. Tapping into this, I started suggesting that she write peoples’ names on the bottoms of things. She has three grand-kids, a much-beloved niece (who, unlike me, did inherit the collecting gene), and tons of friends. I would make sure things went where she wanted them to go. Even with that reassurance, the thought of divestiture was still hard for her, but I continued to press gently. Then last summer, I began noticing names or detailed histories on little pieces of masking tape, written in her tiny, impeccable hand. Progress! Even my kids began turning things over to see if there was a story taped beneath. This led to a number of conversations we never would have had otherwise with my kids peering through the keyhole at what life was like for their grandmother, and even her mother. Over the holidays this year, it was my mom who brought it up: Maybe if she started with the cedar closet . . . maybe if I could help. So, we started small, planning to tackle just the wardrobe first. And, with the possible exception of her (and her mother’s) baby clothes and shoes, mom’s wedding dress and remaining parts of her wedding trousseau, the decluttering of

If I had to offer some advice for others staring up those attic stairs, it would be this: Start early and start small. clothes would perhaps not be so difficult. When we were finished with the closets we had 12 bags for charity, another for the vintage clothing store, and a fairly small bag of keepers. I don’t think I have ever seen mom so tired, but she got through it and agreed that it actually felt good. That night, her pre-dinner glass of wine was replaced with a well-earned Martini! Over the course of four weekends, we applied the standard wardrobe pare-down formula to tackling the treasures: More than a year since she’d used it? Had she forgotten it existed? We also made boxes for friends and family and curated a fab wedding gift of crystal, silver, and vintage linens. We also compiled an awesome box of dress-up clothes for two little girls up the street. Having my antiques-dealing bestie as a trusted Etsy and eBay consultant increased my mom’s comfort level with offering her things for sale. With her first couple of sales, she was hooked and actually having some fun. While there is

certainly an element of melancholy to this process, it has been gratifying for her to know that the stuff of her past will have a future, and she has some mad money for that European river cruise she is planning! Being so much a part of the process gives her control; something that can be elusive as we age. If I had to offer some advice for others staring up those attic stairs, it would be this: start early and start small; getting buy-in from parents and siblings can take a while and you can’t expect to finish in a week or even months; it’s thirsty work; honour and enjoy the memories, and realize that this will be harder on them than on you. However, if you wait and must do this without their input, you may make bad decisions and the guilt will be a killer. Do your research – the internet is a great tool for getting an idea of what things are worth. And try to have a little fun – you probably haven’t had so much undivided attention from your mother in a long time! SPRING 2016 ottawaathome.ca 43

LIVING Living My Way

HEART FIRST BY MARY TAGGART PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK HOLLERON

Time spent with Fiona McKean is time well spent. She is an interesting, genuine soul who makes you feel better for having had the chance to be with her, even just for a while. It makes you realize how sometimes life works out the way it should. Fiona grew up an only child, but spent her childhood summers in the company of neighbourhood brothers. Each summer, the boys next door adopted her and she went along with their family when they headed to the cottage on Newboro Lake near Chaffey’s

“I still get goose bumps when I drive up the driveway.” -FIONA MCKEAN, RESORT OWNER

44 ottawaathome.ca SPRING 2016

LAKE LIFE THIS PAGE, CLOCKWISE: BOATERS ARE ALWAYS WELCOME AT THE OPINICON; PLENTY OF OPPORTUNITY TO RELAX; THE YELLOW, GREEN AND RED COLOUR SCHEME BLENDS WITH THE NATURAL SURROUNDINGS; THE LIARS BENCH BECKONS OUTSIDE THE GENERAL STORE; THE RED LADDER SEEMS READY FOR AN ELOPEMENT; THE MAIN DINING ROOM WAS FRESHLY REVAMPED. FACING PAGE: FIONA & FRASER REST AFTER A WORKDAY; LEADING THE WAY TO THE OPINICON

SPRING 2016 ottawaathome.ca 45

FAMILY FUN THIS PAGE CLOCKWISE: ORIGINAL FEATURES RESTORED; THE CLASSIC ICE-CREAM PARLOUR; WATER SPORTS ARE PLENTIFUL.

Lock in the Rideau Lakes region. The gang would often head to the Opinicon Resort for ice cream, penny candy and the chance to roam the lush grounds on Lake Opinicon. It was a timeless stage of life that Fiona ultimately outgrew, but she never outgrew the lake life. Eventually she bought her own cottage on Newboro Lake with husband Tobias Lütke. As her family began to grow, Fiona settled into her past life of carefree summers on the lake, creating new memories with her children that included the Opinicon. Her daughter took her first steps in the resort dining room and the family quickly discovered that the resort had much more to offer than sweet summer treats. Fiona and Tobias first heard of the Opinicon being for sale in late November 2014, the week she went on maternity leave with their third child. They anguished 46 ottawaathome.ca SPRING 2016

for a couple of weeks over whether to put in an offer, and were surprised to get the winning bid at the December auction, taking ownership on January 29, 2015. “It was a decision of the heart and now the head has to catch up,” offers the clever woman who seems to have no problem keeping up with her decision as plans are underway for massive renovations, all managed by Fiona. The main lodge is being completely revamped to include an industrial kitchen run by chef Angela Baldwin, with a new pub and lounge area that enjoys sweeping views of the lake, plus a refreshed main dining room that maintains much of its original charm. Restaurateur Stephen Beckta helped with the wine menu and was a huge support to Fiona, who states that “he threw himself into the project with so much heart – I have

tremendous gratitude to him.” There is no longer lodging inside the main building; all the guest space is held within the eighteen cottages that dot the grounds. Every cottage is being renovated and each will carry vintage charms suited to the property. LineBox Studio is the architect for the project while Fiona, who spends a lot of time scouring area antique shops, is handling much of the décor. Tobias is busy with his own business as the founder and CEO of Shopify, but Fiona says he dreams of being at Opinicon when he has time. “It’s his happy place,” she says and claims that the novelty of ownership doesn’t seem to be wearing off. “I still get goose bumps when I drive up the driveway.” The family of five now makes the “manager’s cottage” at the resort their summer home and spends most weekends there. Fiona affirms that as the kids get older (they are aged five, three and one), they will all work at the resort as she wants them to have the experience of offering good customer service. Customer experience is an overall priority for Fiona who says it’s a difficult balance to run a business, yet keep prices affordable. While she wants the business to thrive, her idea of thriving might differ from the average businessperson. She hopes that revitalizing the Opinicon will directly affect the surrounding community by creating jobs, encouraging other businesses and bringing in tourists. “We came to the conclusion that we want this to be a social enterprise and we hope to dedicate some of the profits to the community,” offers Fiona. She admires the work of Zita Cobb’s Shorefast Foundation and says, “I hope to implement something similar which gives me a sense of purpose and defines the project. I need to feel like I am doing good and this gives more heart to the project.” So far she can feel very good as she genuinely works to contribute to the community and surrounding areas, sourcing and hiring locally as much as possible. Fiona has a unique style and truly genuine spirit that makes one stop and breathe in the air around her, just to try to capture some of what makes her tick. She truly is a quintessential innkeeper with an air of infectious calm. Visit the revamped Opinicon Resort this summer; pick up an ice cream and take a seat on the Liar’s Bench to breathe in the fresh lake air.

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TOWNHOMES SO BEAUTIFUL, THEY’RE SUITABLE FOR FRAMING It’s your space, your way. Designed for an active lifestyle, these fully upgraded townhomes make luxury standard and are ready for your artistic touch! Tour them today in Orléans' most convenient neighbourhood.

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LIVING New & Notable

ASK THE EXPERT

SPRING TREATS Know about something new and notable? Contact us: editor@ottawaathome.ca

Dean Large, Interior Designer Astro Design Centre

WRITTEN BY SANDY CONNELL

IRISH DELIGHT Planning a special event this spring? The Treat Trolley is an exclusive handcrafted Victorian-styled candy cart available to add a touch of whimsical elegance to your next event. Paula Kelly-Bourque’s trolley was inspired by an Irish design and is the first of its kind in Ottawa and the surrounding area. For more information contact Paula at thetreattrolley.com or 613-267-8304.

OFFICIALLY APPROVED Krista Norris, a young Ottawa-based designer, is garnering attention after her scarves were given to President Obama’s daughters by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and his wife Sophie Grégoire-Trudeau during their recent visit to Washington. She originally launched her collection of bold and textured scarves at Ottawa Fashion Week in 2012, after a chance meeting with an industry professional who encouraged her to start selling the accessories she had been making for herself. They are available in Ottawa at Schad Boutique and Viens Avec Moi and through kristanorris.com.

SIMPLE SOLUTIONS Revamping space doesn’t have to involve a full-blown renovation. Simply replacing a bathroom or kitchen countertop or adding a backsplash will make your home feel updated. Granite Transformation offers countertops and back splashes in eco-friendly materials in a variety of colours and styles. LEED certified Trend green products contain recycled glass and are guaranteed to emit no volatile organic compounds. Visit Granite Transformations at 1446 Cyrville Rd.

can I use tile to QHow enhance my décor?

The days of safe choices and neutral spaces are quickly coming to an end. Perhaps it is the current need to inject ones own personal signature style into the home or fatigue with the past decade, but colour and pattern are two of the biggest trends coming with tile. We are seeing strong colours being in used in large quantities; blues and greens are quickly becoming the base colour on which we build the scheme off of. For instance, white subway tile is classic, but a high gloss navy blue subway tile is sublime. By going with a bold colour it allows you to almost neutralize all of the other strong shades in the space. Colourful tiles are no longer just limited to the backsplash in a kitchen or as an accent stripe in the shower; they can be used on fireplace surrounds or on the walls of a staircase. Since we are now seeing colours being used in abundance, pattern is everywhere. It isn’t pattern based on the shapes of the tile, but rather painted and ornamented patterns. Hand painted Moroccan and Moorish tiles are some of my personal favourites. There is a sense of timeless style that comes with these tiles. They allow a visual interest that can’t be denied and blend particularly well with the statement colour tile. I can’t imagine a room more beautiful than one consisting of a colourful painted tile floor with all walls covered in jewel tone subway tile.

SPRING 2016 ottawaathome.ca 49

50 ottawaathome.ca SPRING 2016

LIVING Street Style

SONIC BLOOM BY KATIE HESSION

YOWCITYSTYLE

@YOWCITYSTYLE PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATIE HESSION

Florals are a springtime given and signify that the seasons are changing with warmer days to spend outdoors on bicycles and emerging patios. I asked an eclectic group of six local musicians to style their own floral look and had them share one of their favourite experiences with music in our city.

WHO: Carolyn, soprano WHERE: Hintonburg WEARING: Dress from Roadtrip / cardigan from Old Navy / flats from Call It Spring

WHO: DeeDee, singer in The PepTides WHERE: Lowertown WEARING: Wild Diva shoes / vintage dress / jacket from Zara / hairpiece made by DeeDee

WHO: Peter, rapper WHERE: Experimental Farm WEARING: Vans shoes from Neon / Levis jeans from Trustfund / shirt from H&M / glasses by Anne et Valentin

“I love checking out the music festivals here in Ottawa. Dan Mangan + Blacksmith at the Dragon Boat Festival was a highlight of last season. His energy, engaging stage presence, and ability to effectively communicate his own personal stories through music really embody what I believe all musicians are after in performance. It’s the magic!”

“One of my favourite places to play with The PepTides has been St. Alban’s Church for the release show of our album Love Question Mark. I’ll never forget playing that gorgeous space to a packed house, singing from the pulpit. Our fans held up glowing letters to spell LQM in the crowd for our final number and we all cried.”

“I got to perform at the Canadian Tire Centre a few months back. That had always been a dream of mine. I played back-to-back at a Sens game and then at the Sens Skills Competition the next day. Performing in an arena in front of all those people represents a huge achievement for me. It’s also a big-ticket item off my bucket list.”

WHO: Devin, rapper/producer/dj WHERE: Centretown WEARING: Shirt from Value Village / pants from Target / shoes from Globo

WHO:Yaa-Hemaa, singer/songwriter of jazz, soul and R&B WHERE: Bank St. WEARING: Eliza J dress from Nordstrom / Clarks heels / Banana Republic bracelet

WHO:Joady, lead singer of In Heat WHERE: Old Ottawa South WEARING: Leather jacket from Winners / boots from Value Village / jeggings from Justice / tank from Wal-Mart

“What I like most about the music scene in Ottawa is how tightly knit it is. People really doing things are bound to run into each other and that opens the door for interesting collaborations and influences across genres.”

“The last few years have been incredibly special as I’ve begun to see Ottawa differently – the doorway to the arts and entertainment side of the city has opened itself up to me. I’ve felt fully supported and embraced by the local community.”

“One of my best moments performing was my first show on the mic as Lexxi Splitlip when my band opened for Pack A.D. at Zaphods. I was hungry to perform and it just felt so right. Maybe that’s why I tattooed ‘Lexxi’ in a heart on my butt.” SPRING 2016 ottawaathome.ca 51

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52 ottawaathome.ca SPRING 2016

LIVING Giving Back

“It’s important to me to volunteer, because my experience at St. Joe’s helped me grow up to be who I am today.” — ASHLEY SIU

REFLECTING WITH GRATITUDE BY CATHERINE CLARK

@CATHERINEJCLARK PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK HOLLERON

When Ashley Siu was a little girl, she and her mom Van-Anh suffered through difficult times. Needing support and guidance, they reached out to St. Joe’s Women’s Centre for help; a decision which had a profound impact on both of their lives. St. Joe’s has served Ottawa’s homeless women as a daytime shelter for over thirty years, and it welcomed Ashley and Van-Anh with open arms. “My mom had me when she was very young,” says Ashley, now sixteen. “She left home and school, and St. Joe’s provided a welcoming place for us,” she recalls. “I had a real sense of community, of safety, of warmth and care.”

While Ashley was busy growing and playing as a young member of the St. Joe’s community, her mom not only received moral support, but food, toiletries and practical advice that saw her go to college and earn a degree, which led to a full time job in the government. The experience of relying on St. Joe’s – and seeing the positive changes it made in their lives – left an indelible imprint on Ashley, who now regularly volunteers her time in the Ottawa community. “It’s important to me to volunteer, because my experience at St. Joe’s helped me grow up to be who I am today,” she says. Marsha Wilson, the Director of the Centre, emphasizes that St. Joe’s acts as a powerful resource for women – one which builds on partnerships established with other organizations like Ottawa Public Health and the Royal Ottawa Mental

Health Centre to provide women with the care they need. It also helps them to build autonomy, self-respect and a strong network of friends. “It’s all about the women and children who walk through this door,” says Marsha. “We are a safe home away from home for them,” she continues. “When you don’t have a network of friends or a place where you can feel safe, how can you be happy?” For Ashley, her memories of St. Joe’s are suffused with happiness. “They’re caring people at St. Joe’s – more like friends,” she says. “My time there gave me a sense of gratitude and appreciation for the kindness of others.” And now, the compassion shown to Ashley in the past will shape her future. “When I grew up, so much was given to me because we were struggling. Now it’s my turn to give back to everyone else.” SPRING 2016 ottawaathome.ca 53

HIGH STYLE & HIGH FUNCTION KITCHEN DESIGN STYLISH MATERIAL COMBINATIONS

FUNCTIONAL WORK SPACE

FUNCTION IN DETAILS

CREATIVE SEATING SOLUTIONS

MAXIMIZING STORAGE

SPECIALTY LIGHTING

CREATIVE STORAGE

ROOM FOR SPECIAL APPLIANCE FEATURES

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FOOD Food Thoughts MAKES: 8 scones PREP TIME: 15 minutes BAKE TIME: 15 minutes

INGREDIENTS

2 cups (500 mL) all-purpose flour (extra for dusting work surface) 2-1/2 tsp (12.5 mL) baking powder 1/2 cup (125 mL) granulated sugar 1 tbsp (15 mL) lemon zest 1/2 cup (125 mL) cold butter, cut into 1-inch pieces 1/2 cup (125 mL) milk 1 egg, lightly beaten 1/2 cup (125 mL) rhubarb, finely chopped 4 oz chopped white chocolate, melted

LEMON-RHUBARB SCONES WITH WHITE-CHOCOLATE DRIZZLE CREATED BY KOREY KEALEY,

@FOODTHOUGHT

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK HOLLERON

Nothing says spring like the bright tangy flavours of lemon and rhubarb, so why not combine them in this simple recipe? The white chocolate drizzle adds the right amount of sweetness to offset that tang! KOREYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S TIPS Scones on demand: Prepare the flour and butter mixture in the food processor, place in storage container and freeze. For scone assembly, just combine the milk & egg when you are ready to prepare! To make apple cinnamon scones: Swap out rhubarb with finely-chopped apples and the lemon zest with 2 tsp (10 mL) cinnamon.

PREPARATION Adjust oven rack to middle position and heat oven to 425 F. Line baking sheet with parchment paper. Pulse flour, baking powder, sugar and lemon zest in food processor until blended. Add butter and pulse into flour until mixture resembles coarse cornmeal, about ten 1-second pulses. Transfer mixture to large bowl and make well in centre. In small bowl whisk together milk and egg; pour mixture into the flour well and stir until batter forms moist clumps. Carefully stir in rhubarb. Transfer dough to lightly-floured work surface and knead gently until dough comes together and is smooth; about 10 seconds. Pat dough into 7-inch circle about 1-inch thick. Using sharp knife, cut circle into 8 wedges. With pastry brush, remove excess flour from wedges. Transfer wedges to prepared baking sheet. Bake until lightly browned and toothpick inserted in centre of scones comes out with a few crumbs attached; about 15 minutes. Transfer scones to wire rack. Drizzle with melted white chocolate. Serve warm or at room temperature. SPRING 2016 ottawaathome.ca 55

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FOOD Let’s Dish

DESIGNING A COOK’S KITCHEN BY PAULA ROY PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK HOLLERON

Every kitchen build or renovation starts with a wish list. Ottawa At Home asked Lorin Russell, president of the Ottawa Chapter of the National Kitchen and Bath Association, for his top tips for creating the perfect kitchen for an avid home cook.

PLANNING ZONES In planning your space, instead of looking at the work triangle, Lorin suggests thinking about your kitchen as having defined zones. “Plan for a prep zone, a cooking zone, a cleaning zone, a consumption zone and a storage zone. This will make your space more organized and functional.” Efficiency is key in a busy kitchen, notes Lorin. “Plan to keep the items you use most when preparing food, such as great knives, cutting boards, oils and favourite utensils, as handy as possible.”

FLEXIBILITY He also recommends putting in drawers everywhere, especially on base cabinets. “Drawers give you the most usable space; look for a designer and manufacturer who will offer flexible sizes and heights.” Similarly, Lorin says to look for upper cabinets with top hinged doors, which are very popular in kitchens with a more modern aesthetic.

LIGHTING From a mechanical standpoint, Lorin notes that proper, ducted ventilation is critical and great lighting – both ambient and task – is essential. His preference is for LED bulbs and he cautions to make sure that all your fixtures emit the same colour tone of light.

SURFACE & FLOOR When it comes to countertops, he suggests a solid surface of any kind. His preference is

quartz for its durability, ease of maintenance and ability to resist stains. “It’s more practical than marble and granite and is great if you want light-coloured counters. You can even run a quartz countertop up the backsplash which is a very attractive and functional option instead of porcelain or ceramic tiles.” Porcelain tiles get the nod for flooring. “They’re super easily to clean, durable and won’t chip easily. I don’t recommend hardwood in the kitchen – it is not durable enough for that environment because of water damage and the potential for dropping heavy things that can damage the floor.”

PRACTICAL THINKING Undermount sinks are essential for a cook’s kitchen and Lorin suggests one large (30-36 inch) sink plus a completely separate smaller sink (18- 24 inch) beside it. “Many double sinks, or sink and three quarters, are just too small. You can’t fit a roasting pan or big baking sheets in them. Two separate sinks mean you can get more usable configurations.” For appliances, the best bet is a separate side-by-side fridge and freezer, built in to the cabinetry if you can. Lorin is a fan of gas cooktops, with induction as a good second option. A wall-mounted convection or speed

oven is super functional, as is a good quality dishwasher. “The more you spend, the faster and quieter they are,” he notes.

TWO COOKS In the “need to have” column, Lorin suggests a steam oven and a warming drawer. Having a separate cooktop and oven is ideal for summertime cooking, as well as if you regularly have multiple cooks at work in the kitchen. A double oven, a built-in coffee system and integrated water filtration system, preferably reverse osmosis, are on the “nice to have” list. For kitchens with multiple cooks, he’d also recommend a second food prep area separated from the main one; ideally it would include a small sink with an integrated strainer. Also nice are under-counter fridge drawers and a small portable induction cooktop for that second workstation.

A TOUCH OF WHIMSY While he’s all about the functionality, Lorin does not ignore the importance of an aesthetically appealing kitchen. “I like to keep things simple, clean and crisp, but it’s fun to add whimsical touches that you can move or change as you like – artwork on the wall, or a fantastic chandelier over an island, for example. These items make a statement of who you are but they’re not permanent and they don’t get in the way of cooking, serving and enjoying food.” SPRING 2016 ottawaathome.ca 57

FOOD Dining Out

EVERMORE PHOTO BY JOEL SCHRAMEK Frank Jousselin has served as Le Belvédère’s full-time executive chef since it opened in 2012. A seasoned professional, he loves working with local, organic food and now has ready access to fresh herbs, produce and edible flowers thanks to the property’s newly-developed three-acre garden. “We have quite an extensive menu with thirteen main course options, an assortment of soups, salads and hors d’oeuvres, plus late-night food service choices,” explains Jessica who adds that a playful late-night menu includes choices such as a poutine bar, fruit and cheese boards and an ice cream sundae bar.

LE BELVÉDÈRE

EVERMORE

CHAMPAGNE & CHANDELIERS BY PAULA ROY PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK HOLLERON

Two gorgeous venues in the Ottawa area are bringing a welcome touch of elegance along with distinctive rural elements and upscale food service that connect us with the great outdoors and are truly memorable. Their energetic owners say it’s time to forget about hay bales and buckets of beer – at Almonte’s Evermore and Wakefield’s Le Belvédère, it’s all about chandeliers and champagne!

LE BELVÉDÈRE Perched on a hillside just outside Wakefield, Le Belvédère’s stunning setting is complemented by a large, 58 ottawaathome.ca SPRING 2016

modern building designed for receptions and parties. The scenic cliffside terrace overlooking forests and lush fields, features a spacious deck, outdoor bar and firepit. Indoors, polished concrete floors, a large fireplace and multiple chandeliers grace the large building along with a stone bar, cocktail lounge, space for a ceremony in case of inclement weather, and a large dining room that can accommodate up to 200 guests. Walls of windows and huge barn doors open the building up to the beautifully maintained grounds. The hands-on owners Jessica and Kyle Davey had a vision for a venue, which artfully incorporates modern comforts while maintaining a strong connection to nature.

When Joel Schramek and Janice Mathers bought the childhood home of Dr. James Naismith, the inventor of basketball, they knew the Almonte property had the potential to become an extraordinary event venue. “The barn was in a terrifying state,” admits Joel, “but we knew we could rehabilitate it and create something exceptional.” Joel’s talents as a professional photographer and Janice’s background in décor and party planning, have enabled them to create a multipurpose venue that is as relaxing as it is beautiful. Evermore’s barn, with a capacity to seat 200, features huge beams, tall ceilings and crystal chandeliers; it’s a shabbychic space with a French provincial feel. Comfortable furniture throughout the space creates multiple lounging areas, both indoors and out. The food at Evermore is a big part of

the story. Working with their culinary partner, Rod Scribner from Salt restaurant, they built a large commercial kitchen which enables the preparation of food on site. “We knew that Salt would provide a level of professionalism to match the service we aspire to deliver,” says Joel. “Salt’s executive chef Ryan Edwards has developed a menu which emphasizes local, seasonal flavours; it is really rustic, beautiful food unlike what you’d expect at an event. Given our location, we are fortunate to source almost everything from local farmers and Ryan and his team treat everything with care so the ingredients shine.” The innovative latenight menu includes a taco station, corn dogs, charcuterie and more.

THE URBAN ELEMENT GOES RURAL Ottawa’s The Urban Element is expanding this year to include offsite catering services that will deliver the company’s hallmark accessible elegance. Their new offering builds on ten years of experience hosting chic, delicious events in the old Parkdale Fire Station as well as providing catering services across the city.

NEW LOOK NEW STYLE

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“Catering in rustic settings can pose challenges, but we have the experience to know how to make it all work. It also gives us a chance to deliver food that is fun and super creative,” says Carley Schelck, Urban Element’s CEO. “We will bring the style, the functionality and the aesthetic for which we are known, while also drawing on the environment in which we’re serving. For example, we’ll gather floral and other decorating features from the site, and use natural elements for serving pieces, fish from nearby lakes or locally-grown herbs and vegetables would be ideal.”

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FOOD The Scene

HAPPY TIMES FOR PJ L’HEUREUX AT CRAFT BEER MARKET BY PAULA ROY PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK HOLLERON

It should come as no surprise that someone whose name means “the happy one” is in the business of bringing joy to people via food and drink. PJ L’Heureux, the founder of CRAFT Beer Market, is bringing his innovative concept to Ottawa this spring, making sure to incorporate loads of local touches into his winning formula. “I was initially attracted to Ottawa for our fourth location because of the vibrant craft beer scene here,” says PJ. “It’s young, kind of like how Vancouver was ten years ago, but there is so much great stuff happening and there’s a real community around craft beer.” Although a Calgary native, PJ says he feels like an Ottawan now, having spent months getting to know our city and its food and drink scene quite intimately. In the process he found everyone very open and welcoming. “I know of no other business that goes about things the way we do, in terms of getting to know the local market,” he explains. “Our approach is very organic. We get out there and meet people to find out who we should be working with. It’s important because we make all the food in house and we want the right mix of beer too.” PJ and his crew started with breweries and their network of local contacts rapidly expanded from there. “The team at Beau’s was just great – it’s one of the best breweries I’ve ever been to. Beau’s Chef Bruce took our chef out and introduced him to a lot of great farmers and food producers which really helped us establish our supplier team. Similarly, Farm Boy was a big connection for us; they led us to who’s doing things right in

“We look forward to becoming as involved in the community as we can. Ottawa is the perfect city for CRAFT and I couldn’t be more excited.” — PJ L’HEUREUX

Ottawa across a wide range of fields.” These connections will help add a lot of local flavour to CRAFT’s Ottawa menu. While their spacious Lansdowne venue will boast Ontario’s largest selection of draft beer and Ottawa’s most extensive selection of local beer when it opens in May, the food will be front and centre too. “I like to say that while the dishes will be the same as people have come to love at our western locations, everything will be different because of the local elements,” notes PJ. “We’re going to be sure our poutine is perfect, for example, since that’s a big thing for Ottawa. And you’ll see local products like Seed to Sausage on our charcuterie boards. We’ll name

our fantastic suppliers on the menu and our servers will be well versed on all the local components of our dishes.” Connecting to community also included a recent “name that beer” contest, with the winning entries being Aberdeen Ale and Lansdowne Logger. PJ is looking forward to adding brewmaster’s dinners and communityselected brews to the lineup. In addition, the CRAFT crew will continue its proud tradition of cooking for the families at Ronald McDonald house once per month. “We look forward to becoming as involved in the community as we can,” confirms PJ. “Ottawa is the perfect city for CRAFT and I couldn’t be more excited.” SPRING 2016 ottawaathome.ca 61

FOOD Paulaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bites

CANNING LID QUICHES BY PAULA ROY @PAULAJROY PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK HOLLERON

I love serving quiche as a light, yet satisfying, breakfast or brunch option. These cute little savoury pies are sure to impress, not only because of their fun presentation, but also for their tangy flavour and creamy texture. You can use your own favourite pastry recipe, however this shortcrust version is simple to prepare and easy to shape in the canning lids. These are delicious as an appetizer or with a side salad. 62 ottawaathome.ca SPRING 2016

INGREDIENTS Pastry 1 cup (250 mL) all-purpose flour minus 1 tablespoon (15 mL) pinch of salt 1/4 cup (60 mL) very cold butter 3-4 tbsp (45-60 mL) very cold water Filling 1/3 cup (90 mL) packed fresh basil leaves, chopped 2 tbsp (30 mL) butter, well softened 1/4 cup (60 mL) goat cheese, softened 2 tbsp (30 mL) sour cream 1 egg salt and pepper 1/2 pint cherry tomatoes

METHOD Make pastry by combining flour and salt in a medium bowl. Quickly grate the cold butter into the flour and stir to blend. Sprinkle 3 tbsp (45 mL) of water over top and stir quickly with a fork. Add up to 1 tbsp (15 ml) more water as needed to bind the dough together, using your fingers to incorporate the flour. Do not overwork the pastry. Turn dough out onto a clean surface and shape into a disc. Wrap well in plastic and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight. To prebake the crusts, wash and dry 8 canning jar rings and lids. Flip the flat lids upside down into the rings so the crust will not sit on the rubber seal. Grease lightly with butter and place on a baking sheet. Roll the pastry out very thinly between two sheets of parchment paper. Cut the dough into 4 inch (10 cm) circles and place the circles inside the prepared canning jar lids. Reroll dough scraps just once to create additional circles, making 8 in total. Gently press the dough into the lids and flute the edges with your fingertips. Set the oven to 375F and put the tray of pastry-lined canning jar lids into the freezer while the oven preheats. Bake for 13-15 minutes, until lightly browned. If the bottoms are puffing up, push down on them gently with a wooden spoon to deflate. Let the pre-baked shells cool before filling (you can pre-bake several hours ahead if you wish). While shells are cooling, make filling. In a bowl, whisk together basil, goat cheese, butter, sour cream and egg until well blended. Season generously with salt and pepper. Refrigerate until needed. Spoon filling into cooked tart shells, spreading evenly. Halve tomatoes and arrange 3 halves per tart, cut sides up. Bake until filling is just set, about 13-15 minutes. Cool tarts until on a wire rack and serve warm or at room temperature. Makes 8

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END NOTE

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Located in the Heart of Hintonburg www.hubertsfireplaces.com | 101 Pinhey St. Ottawa | 613-728-3786

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OTTAWA AT HOME SPRING 2016 RENOVATION OTTAWA AT HOME MEDIA INC

UPGRADE YOUR LIFE

H O M E S D E S I G N L I V I N G S H O P P I N G F O O D

SPRING 2016

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RENOVATION INSIDE & OUT TASTEFUL VENUES AND BABY NURSERY DIY

Renovations: • • • • •

THE GLEBE ROCKCLIFFE WESTBORO MCKELLAR RIDEAU LAKES

COLIN & JUSTIN’S COTTAGE REVAMP

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