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On the cover: PREMIERE ISSUE
Timberland Homes in Legacy Grove featuring a project by Landscape Effects photo by Devon Pastorius.
MADE FOR ENTERTAINING
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CONTENTS
08 S hining a Light on Soffi Lighting By Jen Brignall Photo by Trevor Booth
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08
38
abour of Love L Restoring the Low/Martin Mansion By Matthew St. Amand Photos by Trevor Booth
20 O h So Mona – Shrimp Summer Pasta By Mona Elkadri. Photos by Vicki Bartel
22 B ringing The Indoors Outdoors the Latest in Patio Furniture By Matthew St. Amand
26 C arving Out a Corner of Heaven in Essex County By Matthew St. Amand Photos by Devon Pastorius
34 T rusting the Process By Jen Brignall-Strong Photos by Lisa Savone
38 E lizabeth Salonen The Industrial Design Virtuoso Behind Mottoform By Matthew St. Amand Photos by Trevor Booth
46 C ontext Matters at matter architectural studio inc. By Matthew St. Amand. Interior and Exterior photos by Adam Letch
46 W.E. Home & Lifestyle
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SHINING A LIGHT ON SOFFI LIGHTING Unique Designs to Brighten any Space. By Jen Brignall-Strong Photo by Trevor Booth
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One of Windsor’s best kept secrets is bringing art into the realm of daily life. With nearly two decades of experience in metal and glass design and fabrication, Soffi Lighting has earned a reputation for creating spectacular, bespoke lighting fixtures. Through their internationally acclaimed decorative glass firm, Soffi Studio, the team creates sculptural blown glass installations, contemporary decorative accessories, and functional objects. Working with interior designers and art consultants from around the world, they provide original design solutions for commercial, hospitality, and residential projects. Although the company was founded in Windsor in 2004, it wasn’t until recently that the team began taking on local projects. Now the word is out, and owners Eva Milinkovic and Kris Gene are excited to bring their expertise and oneof-a-kind lighting designs to homeowners right in their own backyard. “Most of our work was abroad; either in Toronto or the US,” says Kris. “The business has been open for nearly 20 years and the past two years were really when we started focusing on local.” Kris says the company originally started off doing accessory work and artistic installations like wall work. Almost a decade later, they shifted their focus to custom lighting projects. “It just seemed like a natural transition for us to start incorporating more of that into what we do,” says Kris. The word ‘Soffi’ comes from the Italian glassblowing tool, Soffietta, and is derived from the Italian verb ‘soffiare’,
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which means to blow or puff. The name Soffi embodies the very soul of the glass blowing process; the breath of the craftsperson. It is this human touch that goes into everything the company produces. “What sets us apart is that all our work is original and hand made locally,” says Eva. “It’s like getting a suit custom made versus buying one off the rack.” All of Soffi’s glass and metal work is created on site by their knowledgeable staff, making their products truly exceptional; standing out from prefabricated pieces you’d find at a big box store. “The nice thing here is that everybody here has really unique, complementing skills. Everyone has their expertise,” says Eva. “We make all the molds here for glass blowing so we have a CNC machine. We do all the engineering here, so we have engineers who look at things like stress analysis of the fixtures.”
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and business owners as well. “We provide an experience for our local clients where they can come in, sit down and discuss the designs before we start fabricating,” adds Kris. “We can even have them in during the manufacturing process so they can actually see their fixture being made and the glass being blown.” From their delicate glass globes and spheres to modern pendant lights and chandeliers, Soffi’s designs are meant to be hung individually or in groupings. Styles can be mixed and matched to create a personalized fixture, unique to any environment. Through this approach, says Kris, Soffi has carved out a niche of clients who appreciate handcrafted items and are familiar with what it means to buy something custom made.
Eva says the designs Soffi offers have evolved through their own process and came naturally, resulting in a style that people can recognize as uniquely theirs.
“A lot of the houses we’ve been working on lately have been custom homes, so by default as soon as you get into different ceiling heights and room sizes it starts to get difficult to find appropriate lighting fixtures that work in the space and I think that’s really where we fit,” he notes.
“The idea with our line of lighting is that you can choose a design and then we customize it to fit the space,” she explains. “So it’s an original design for the client based on one of our existing designs. We also do completely custom work from scratch.”
“Living in a space with beautiful things that you appreciate is more of a philosophy; you appreciate the designer behind it,” adds Eva. “There’s something to be said about paring down and having nice things that are personal to you.”
While the majority of their local work is with interior designers, Eva notes that they do work directly with home
To learn more about Soffi Lighting and view their latest designs, visit soffilighting.com W.E.
Actual Project
1455 Matthew Brady Blvd Windsor | 519.944.5277
bayviewglass.com
Eric LaMarre Owner
A LABOUR OF LOVE
Restoring the Low/Martin Mansion A local entrepreneur who admired the mansion for decades gave it the hug it needed. By Matthew St. Amand Photo by Trevor Booth
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It is one of the most regal and distinguished homes in Essex County: the Low/Martin Mansion in Walkerville. Also known as “Devonshire Lodge,” the mansion was commissioned by Windsor rumrunner, Harry Low, nearly a century ago. George Lawton was chosen to build the rough-cut stone Cotswold English cottage style home. Construction commenced in 1927, and cost $150,000 to build. Low and his wife, Nellie, moved into the house in 1928 and lived there until 1934, hosting many notorious guests during that time, including Al Capone and members of Detroit’s Purple Gang. The mansion changed hands over the ensuing years, until it finally became the residence of Paul Martin, Sr., and his family, beginning in 1960. The home was visited by sitting Prime Ministers Lester Pearson and Pierre Trudeau. It remained a possession of the Martin family until after their deaths in 1995. Although the Low/Martin Mansion received official historical designation in 2007, that did not spare its fall into ruin. Many attempts were made by various owners to resurrect the home, but none were up to the task. Except for one. “I moved to Windsor in 1984,” says current owner, Vern Myslichuk, owner-operator of BetterMade Cabinets. “For twenty-some years, I lived on Argyle. I had a facility there,
too, for a while. Many of my customers, seeing the style of cabinetry I had at that time, referred to Low/Martin Mansion. By chance one day, I came across it and became the house stalker. I was in no position at that time to buy it. It was just something I put it in my brain: ‘Wouldn’t it be nice to own that someday?’” Vern purchased the home in April 2012, and immediately found himself tumbling down a “careful what you wish for” rabbit hole. “The day I finalized the purchase was the first time I went inside the house,” Vern recalls. “It was raining inside. I had an accepted offer on the table, and it was raining inside the house. I looked at my realtor and said: ‘This is a really good purchase.’ I walked toward the back door, shaking my head, thinking: ‘This is absolutely ridiculous—the amount of work that needs to be done.’” Vern soon learned there was an accumulation of water in the attic, which caused the ceilings and stairwells to continuously drip with water. In some places, the ceiling was patched with plywood. In other places, all that kept the ceiling from caving in were two-by-fours positioned to hold it up. “Everything needed attention,” Vern says. “Because this was a restoration, we couldn’t just pull wire. We couldn’t destroy what was there. I wanted to preserve as much as
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possible. This made everything three times harder because we couldn’t just knock down walls. We wanted to preserve that hundred-year-old paneling.” When he bought the house, people said to Vern: “You’re going to be restricted because of the house’s heritage designation.” “For me, there was zero restriction. I wanted to preserve as much as I could,” Vern says. “I went out of my way with the eaves troughs and windows. I did more research than the heritage people. I was not there to challenge them. When I was finished the home, I wanted it to look just as it had in 1928.” Vern and his crew began work on the mansion and didn’t stop for a solid two years. “We started from the top down,” he explains. “Wherever there was damage, we used those areas to run electrical, heating and cooling, and plumbing. The damage gave us access. We removed the plywood holding the ceiling up, and I directed all trades people: ‘This is how we get in. We’ll repair it after.’” Vern’s plan for the house morphed over time. “I had purchased real estate in the past, and at first, I saw this house as just another business deal,” he says. “As I got involved with the project, it went from being a business deal to an emotional, passionate quest. It was very personal. It’s my baby. It just needed a hug.” Although it was easy to see only the damage and neglect inside the house, it didn’t take long before Vern and his crew caught glimpses of its former splendor.
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I did more research than the heritage people. I was not there to challenge them. When I was finished the home, I wanted it to look just as it had in 1928.
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“Everything in the house has a curve to it,” Vern says. “The craftsmanship in the Low/Martin mansion is second to none. Nothing in Essex County is comparable to it.
My neighbours must have thought I’d gone crazy. Then, we rebuilt the porch and replaced every single stone. There wasn’t one stone left over.”
“The roof is undulating,” he continues. “The cedar shake—the little wooded slats on the roof itself— wraps around the soffits. The roof has a roll to it. It’s not flat, not sloped. It rolls on the edge. I’ve never seen one like it. You could not do this today.”
When the neighbours beheld Vern’s victory over the covered porch, they began to believe this restoration effort was different from all the others.
There are more than 90 windows in the house. They are all leaded. Vern says that everything is bevelled. When the light shines into the house, it creates a diamond effect on surfaces. Even the window in the turret is curved, not a flat pane. “Every room has a different ceiling detail,” Vern says. “From extreme plasterwork to over-the-top woodwork. It’s all original.” In the kitchen area was the refrigeration system, an old-time ice box, which did not function when Vern took possession of the house. He sought to get it working again, but learned that even in its heyday, it did not work properly. “We took it to BetterMade Cabinets and removed the back panel,” Vern says. “We kept the façade, we kept the authenticity, but now it functions as a pantry.”
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“They had seen so many people unable to pull off the restoration,” he says. “It was a thundering task. People began believing we could do this. They brought us water and sandwiches as we worked. It changed how they felt about the house. One neighbour came up and thanked me for increasing the value of his home because of the work we were doing.” “The house spills out into the back,” Vern remarks. “There is a great coach house back there. It was once a three-car garage, and now is again. We also restored a livery as a two-bedroom bungalow.” After two years of continuous work, Vern moved into the house in 2014. Ten years after purchasing it, the Low/Martin Mansion, restored to its former glory, is now up for sale.
At the rear of the house was a crumbling covered porch. Vern got quotes for repairing it but was told that it was beyond repair.
“I’ll give it a year,” Vern says, “and if I get the right number, I’ll sell it. If I don’t get the right number, it will never go on the market again.” Then he adds: “Never buy what you love. It’s too hard to sell!”
“So, we took the porch down to its footings,” Vern says. “We couldn’t save the blocking. I took every single stone off it, photographed it, labeled it, stacked it on the lawn.
For more information about buying the Low/Martin Mansion, contact listing agent Stephanie Winger through stephaniewinger.ca. W.E.
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SHRIMP SUMMER PASTA INGREDIENTS
DIRECTIONS
2 portions of your desired noodles (I used fettuccine for this recipe)
1. I n a pot with boiling water and a pinch of salt, cook noodles until al denté.
2 tbsp butter
2. I n a large frying pan set to medium heat, add butter, sundried tomatoes and oil, garlic, sweet onion, chilli flakes, sriracha, and shrimp. Cook until shrimp is almost opaque.
1 tbsp sun-dried tomato, chopped 1 tsp oil from the sundried tomato jar 2 cloves garlic ½ sweet onion, thinly sliced ½ tsp chilli flakes 1 tsp sriracha 8-10 shrimp 1 cup chopped Swiss chard ¼ cup corn 3 tbsp salted pasta water Freshly shaved parmesan
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Photo by Vicki Bartel
3. O nce the shrimp is about done, add the Swiss chard, and corn. Once it’s cooked, add 3 tbsp of the salted pasta water and stir. Let it continue to cook/boil for a min or until the water has almost evaporated, leaving behind a light sauce. 4. A dd the cooked noodles to the pan and combine all the ingredients. 5. L ast, sprinkle fresh parmesan over top and enjoy! W.E.
Oh so Mona W.E. Home & Lifestyle
Mona Elkadri is a lifestyle blogger with a fondness for everyday living and entertaining, from sweet recipes to home décor and DIY, and everything in between. Ohsomona.com
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BRINGING THE INDOORS OUTDOORS The Latest in Patio Furniture
Make the best season of the year that much better with the perfect outdoor space. By Matthew St. Amand A positive development to come out of the past two years is how homeowners came to view their dwellings in a whole new light—particularly, their outside spaces. “A continuing trend we’re seeing,” says Tim Friesen of LFX Supply Centre, “is homeowners wanting their outdoor furniture to look more like their indoor furniture.” James Gibb, owner-operator of Affinity Custom Designs agrees. “Customers are bringing the indoors outdoors, in terms of styling, giving their outdoor space more of a living room feel. We’re seeing a lot of interest in patio replicas of what is in the living room—comfortable deep seating, coffee tables, elements that give a feeling of an intimate experience.” James continues: “Tall bar tables and bistro style tables have also become popular. These bring a lot of value to a small space. For a work-from-home setup, the bistro table has given people that portable workspace outside, if they need a change of scenery.”
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The ideal has always been the backyard oasis, a haven away from the world. A key aspect of this is removing the “pain points,” as James refers to them—the hassle of setting up the patio area and putting everything away after use. “After working a long shift, a homeowner doesn’t want to haul cushions out to the patio just to enjoy it for a few minutes,” says James. “I build products with comfort in mind, first. Moving cushions is a pain point for people, so I have developed seating where the body is positioned comfortably without cushions.” Adirondack chairs remain popular for this reason. James has developed a rocking chair version of the Adirondack chair. “LFX Supply Centre has these,” James points out. “They’re comfortable and they’re durable. They will last 20 to 25 years, virtually maintenance free.” “James has tweaked the design of his Adirondack chair so that it sits a bit higher,” Tim notes. “This makes it easier for
seniors, and people with mobility issues, to get out of the chair.” Part of bringing the indoors outdoors is food preparation. The popularity of outdoor kitchens has increased throughout Essex County. While nothing will take the place of the backyard grill, homeowners are turning to an alternative: “Pizza ovens are popular,” Tim says. “This goes beyond the barbecue and the smoker. We have some great pizza ovens that vary in size, depending on one’s culinary skills… and they are all wood burning.” One of the biggest trends James has observed is homeowners concerned about sustainability. “People are much more eco conscious,” he says. “I choose my materials with sustainability in mind. I use a lot of recycled plastic, recycled wood.” A unique way one homeowner livened up pool-side activities was with an outdoor pool table. “It can withstand the elements, though it comes with a cover,” Tim says. “It is as much fun outside as it is inside, and allows people to, literally, play pool by the pool.” Homeowners are taking control of their outdoor spaces like never before. James has noted the popularity of garden planters is growing. “There is more of a trend toward portable gardens, especially for small spaces,” he says. “Homeowners are looking for ways to add greenery, or decorate their space, without taking away from the square footage of the yard. That’s where vertical garden solutions really work well.” Railing flower boxes, window boxes are also growing in popularity. These add colour and vibrancy to a space without the physical work of having to garden. “They’re portable, so they can move around,” James continues. “They are easy to care for.” Homeowners are also turning to shade-sails when they need a break from the sun. These are a hybrid between an awning and umbrella. They can be set up between trees, or the house and a fence. Something Tim can see becoming popular in the future are misting units. “These are standalone units attached to a shade apparatus, sort of umbrella with misting technology,” he says. “People don’t realize they need it. There is nothing better than to be sitting at a table, enjoying a summer cocktail, and being cooled by a misting unit.” And finally, fire pits remain a constant in countless backyards in Essex County. Fire tables are also growing in popularity. “We have one right now, and I love it,” Tim says. “It is from Plank and Hide, and what makes it great is its versatility. It looks like a table, but you can put a gas cylinder inside, underneath. The lid slides open so it can be used as a fire table, or keep it closed and it works as a coffee table.” For more information about the best and latest in patio furniture and backyard solutions, check out the LFX Supply Centre, lfxsupplycentre.com, and James Gibbs’ work at Affinity Custom Designs, affinitycustomdesigns.ca. W.E.
W.E. Home & Lifestyle
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TAKE A THOUSAND VACATIONS IN YOUR OWN BACKYARD 519-739-2713 | accentoutdoorliving.ca
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CARVING OUT A CORNER OF HEAVEN in Essex County
Landscape Effects demonstrates its artistry and versatility on a one-of-a-kind project. By Matthew St. Amand Photos by Devon Pastorius
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Creating a paradise is not a simple process. As the old saying goes: “If it was easy, everybody would have one." It helps when a talented, knowledgeable, experienced designer is available. A private oasis was recently created in LaSalle’s Legacy Grove neighbourhood that can only be described as epic. As the journey of a thousand miles begins with one step, work on this masterpiece commenced with a simple telephone call to Landscape Effects (LFX). “Our process is straightforward,” says Heather Horton, Senior Designer with LFX. “It usually begins with a call or notification via our website. One of our associates goes over needs, wants, wishes, budgets, and timelines with the prospective
W.E. Home & Lifestyle
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Creating a paradise is not a simple process. As the old saying goes: "If it was easy, everybody would have one."
client. It’s better to learn at the outset if we’re a good fit for the project.” In the case of the Legacy Grove oasis, LFX was the perfect fit. With more than 25 years experience helping clients define their space, LFX has the right combination of exceptional service and industry-leading design to take an empty space and turn it into a place where a lifetime of memories will be created. Heather has been designing custom landscape projects with LFX for 24 years. The “canvas” Heather had to work with on this project was substantial: “The entire site from back lot line to the road is 25,165 square feet, including the house,” she says. “The site was a blank slate. Except for the numerous existing evergreen trees along the lot line in the back yard, there was nothing else on the site except the house.” The design process was multi-pronged. Heather spent considerable time listening to the clients’ ideas and desires for their outdoor space. This was coupled with visiting the site to photograph and measure the area, as well as shooting grades. From the outset, Heather understood that the Legacy Grove project was unique. The design process in this case involved several drawing renditions before the final design was agreed upon. The client was heavily involved, as they worked in tandem when it came to construction: the client installed all the masoned walls, pool pavilion, and exposed aggregate, while LFX did the rest.
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W.E. Home & Lifestyle
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All large projects demand a guiding philosophy to keep them on track and within scope. “In the case of Legacy Grove, we wanted to continue the contemporary feel of the house into the hardscape, landscape, and pool,” Heather continues. “Keeping the areas functional for large parties, with other spaces for more intimate gatherings.” Intertwined in the guiding philosophy are the clients’ wants and needs, such as privacy. “The space has a very open patio, lawn, and pool layout, but walled-in at the back lot line and six-foot emerald cedars and columnar trees were used along the sides for privacy. This gives it a more secluded feel. The five bronze waterspouts built into the masoned wall at the back of the pool cancels out the sounds of the street.” She adds: “Form and function were very important to this client.” As the accompanying photos attest, the final product is singular and stunning. The project involved full property site work, grading, drainage, irrigation, and sodding. The pool pavers are Techobloc Sleek in greyed nickel colour, four inches thick, 15 inch by 32 inch tiles. The pool and step copings are Techo Bloc Raffinato in greyed nickel colour, four inches thick, 14 inch by 28 inch. The Custom Liner Pool is a backwards “Z”-shape. It was designed by LFX and the client and installed by Relax Pools and Spas. The swimming/built-in bench portion of the pool is 535 square foot, the lounge area is 321 square feet, for a total area of 856 square feet. “The client provided his own furniture,” Heather says. “As for the low voltage lighting—which can sometimes be a ‘make or break’ element—the client didn’t want it to be overdone, which can easily happen. We went with simple and elegant. The path lights are very contemporary and follow the look of the house. The other lights—spot and flood lights—are hidden. LFX provided the client with the coping lights for the masoned walls that the client installed during the wall construction.” The project took approximately 18 months. The design process began in 2019, and the job was completed in late summer 2021. The beauty and enjoyment this singular space provides the resident of the house will last for decades. It was a memorable project for the LFX crew. “The client was very involved in the design, and we worked together during construction,” Heather says. “There were several changes along the way, but with good communication between all parties involved, the project went smoothly.” To learn more about what LFX can do for your outdoor space, visit them online at landscapefx.com. W.E.
W.E. Home & Lifestyle
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301 Edinborough St. Windsor, ON | 519-966-1280
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Here’s to 100 years of being in your backyard
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TRUSTING THE PROCESS Transform your space step by step with Studio Savone. By Jen Brignall-Strong Project photos by Lisa Savone
From designing sprawling department stores and retail spaces to squeezing 24 inches of additional cupboard space into a home kitchen renovation, interior designer Lisa Savone has done it all. “I’ve worked on projects anywhere from 80 square foot kiosks to 250,000 square foot buildings, so my planning skills are second to none,” laughs Savone. “I’m very confident when it comes to design.” After spending the past two decades working on large scale, international projects, the Windsor-native is excited to now share her expertise with local homeowners through her own design firm, Studio Savone. “What’s interesting is that I’m new to the area, even though I’m born and raised here,” she says. “I’ve always lived here, but this is really the first time in my career where I’ve been able to take on local clients.” During the height of the pandemic, Savone says she had a few requests from friends to assist them with some home renovation work. It was then she discovered how much she enjoyed the residential side of interior architecture. “I really enjoy doing residential work; I’ve found I bring a lot of value from my experience in large-scale retail,” says Lisa. “It’s about guiding people through the process. A lot of homeowners get overwhelmed because they don’t know where to start.” ‘The process’ Savone speaks of is one she’s honed after managing the many moving parts of those commercial jobs: coordinating with other designers, working with construction crews, and choosing materials and fixtures to best fit the aesthetic and the functionality of a space. Because she’s designed for large corporate brands, she understands the steps required to create a distinct environment and an overall “feel” for a room; no matter how big or small. Savone notes that while she is not a decorator, her drawings and her architectural palette are what set the stage for everything else in a renovation or new build. “My forte is really creating a vision for a client and sticking to it,” she explains. “My strategic vision starts to develop what the design story is for the client. It helps avoid any anxiety along the way or any rash decisions.” Savone’s five step process begins with the strategic vision and concept design; the foundation for every design decision. This is the planning phase where she works with the client to create the design narrative and provides visual imagery. The second step is schematic design; getting the ideas on paper including floor and ceiling plans, creating a preliminary material palette, and choosing preliminary furniture, fixtures, and equipment.
Photo by Heike Delmore
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The strategic vision and schematic designs should be established long before any construction work begins. If you’re building a new home, that means calling Savone
before the roof is on and the studs are up. “There has to be collaboration when the architect is planning,” she explains, sharing that in her third phase, the Design Development phase, she provides a detailed drawing package and 3D renderings that instruct a contractor how to proceed. “It’s a good document to give clients the opportunity to get accurate pricing for materials; not ballpark pricing,” she says. “I think when it goes from vision to when I show them what it’s going to look like in 3D, that’s awesome to me. When they start to really visualize what it’s going to be.” Once those renderings are completed, Savone guides her clients through furniture, fixtures and equipment selections and specifications; deciding how to furnish the space with decorative lighting, wall coverings, and window treatments. Savone strives to be aesthetically versatile and is not married to one particular look or trend. v“A lot of people will hire an interior designer for their style,” she explains. “But it’s not about me; it’s about the client. It always is. My personal style might be more modern, but if someone says ‘I want farmhouse country,’ I can do it for them and I’ll do it right.” The final step in Savone’s process is implementing the design; coordinating with consultants and contractors, reviewing shop drawings to ensure design adherence, and attend periodic site visits. “There’ll always be surprises, especially in a renovation,” she acknowledges. “But me offering this holistic design process alleviates any uncertainty for the client. It allows people to control their project and budget accordingly. It really protects the client and the contractor in the long run.” While Savone says she truly enjoys every step of a project, seeing her clients’ reactions is what brings her the most joy. “Seeing the glimmer in their eye when they see the end results is just the best,” she beams. “My goal is to make clients happy and show them the potential of their space.” W.E.
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CONTEXT MATTERS at matter architectural studio inc. A pair of Windsor natives took London by storm, and are bringing the fruit of their knowledge and expertise back home. By Matthew St. Amand Photos by Adam Letch Of all the intermingling factors required to create success, chief among them is having the right combination of people come together at the right time. The Beatles didn’t become the Beatles we know today until Ringo Starr joined. Nirvana was just another Seattle band until Dave Grohl took over on drums. And Rush was playing high school gymnasiums until Neil Peart came on board. Steven Cooper and Phil Sharron, co-founders of matter architectural studio inc., worked for competing architecture firms in London, but it wasn’t until they met and joined forces that the magic began to happen. Fun fact: Steven and Phil are both drummers. Steven and Phil are Windsor natives who have created a substantial footprint in London. They’re now turning their eyes homeward. “We played in bands in Windsor,” Phil says, “and I’m sure Steven and I played a show together, at one time. It’s amazing we didn’t connect earlier.” “We had the same peer group from different high schools,” Steven says. “I went to W.F. Herman Academy Secondary School and Phil went to F.J. Brennan Catholic High School.”
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Following secondary school, Phil attended the Architectural Technology program at George Brown College in Toronto. Steven is a graduate of the Architectural Technology program at St. Clair College and Master of Architecture program at Lawrence Technological University in Michigan. Life and happenstance led each of them to London, where they now run an established, acclaimed architecture firm. In their world, there is no such thing as “having arrived”. It’s always about the next project, the next challenge. Among the current projects is establishing a presence in their old hometown: plans are in motion to expand their firm, matter architectural studio inc., into Windsor. “Windsor is an important aspect of our lives. Both of our families and friends live in the city,” Steven explains. “We’re in town every couple of weeks. We’re working on securing office space in Windsor, but haven’t selected a specific location yet.” This is great news for Windsor, considering the variety and technical complexity of the projects matter has designed and executed to date. Starting out in 2015, matter’s founding duo worked out
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of Steven’s basement. Fast forward to 2019: matter expanded into a 5,500 square foot studio with a 16 member team. One of the many aspects that sets matter apart from the competition, is the in-house design/execution process they developed: “Remarkable Architecture.” “Our Remarkable Architecture concept is the intersection of proper contextual design response and the way it’s technically executed,” Steven says. “It’s about creating a vehicle to take a group of people from start to end. It’s about the intersectionality of design and technical rigor, while staying on time and on budget.” “It’s more than drawing a pretty picture,” Phil says. “You need to know how to actually build the design, how to detail it. Otherwise, the concept will be ruined in construction. We show clients something they fall in love with, and have the technical skill to deliver it.” One example of this intersectionality is the Lake Huron Residence, a luxury summer retreat. The design trade publication, Onekindesign.com, describes the home as “a showpiece in design, technology and sustainability, which meaningfully connecting with its beautiful natural setting and exploring new alternatives to enhancing the lifestyle experience of the family summer getaway.” “With the Lake Huron Residence, the sourcing of materials and finishes came from as far away as Cape Town,
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South Africa, Germany, and Ireland,” Steven says. “Our ability to work for our clients this way is where we add value as Architects.” The Lake Huron Residence is the combination of uncompromised vision and detailed execution. The project, designed in association with SAOTA Architects, is comprised of two overlapping elements. The perpendicular massing was placed to sit discreetly within the surrounding forested landscape and take advantage of the natural topography of the subject lands. A clear material palette, made up of two ceramic façade tones and glass, amplifies the distinction of the building forms intended to appear equally striking in all four distinct seasons. The unique design of this residence required our team to create 100% custom details which have not been used in this region of Ontario. For example, our office worked diligently with Elemex to create a custom ceramic “fin” detail for the building exterior that works to animate the façade. We also reviewed and detailed inset window conditions at the top and bottom of each piece of glass on the project. This allows for maximum unencumbered views of the natural setting for the home owner. These, along with other custom details for structural steel, HVAC and millwork make The Lake Huron Residence a truly one-of-a-kind Architectural experience.
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“We do not walk into rooms with cape and monocle,” Steven adds. “We encourage our clients to bring builders to the table during design. Doing this gives the client real-time pricing, competency, and answers to their questions in tandem with our concepts. It helps them weigh their options in real time and make the right decision for their projects.” How did a couple of Windsor guys arrive at a point where they undertake these next level projects? For one thing, they’re artists. In their youth, they each channeled this into music. They were also each inspired by their parents. “I think it goes back to my dad,” Phil says. “He wanted to be a Landscape Architect and did a stint in that field. He helped me build models. I did a lot of drawing as a kid. In high school, I enjoyed drafting classes at school. Getting into the computer aided drawing was mind-blowing at the time.” Steven remembers: “My parents showed me their high school art class drawings—both are very talented artists. For me, it was always about the connection of a pen to paper and putting something on it that was from my mind. I am, and continue to be, extremely passionate about design. For example, during my senior high school I was asked what I wanted to do with my life. My response was simply: ‘I want to be an architect.’”
matter architectural studio inc. melds outside-the-box thinking with tangible, practical solutions. Plus, they like people. “We haven’t built a business based on transactional relationships,” Steven says. “We are here to help people who need a trusted advisor when they don’t know the answer to the question. We are approachable. It’s all about creating Remarkable Architecture together. This resonates with people.” Both founders look forward to bringing their methodology to Windsor, where each of their origin stories begin. In fact, they have already started work in their hometown. “We recently completed the first phase of St. Clair College’s business school expansion downtown,” Phil says. “We have also been named a ‘vendor of record’ with the City of Windsor.” Steven and Phil know and love the lay of the land in Windsor. “We understand that architecture is ‘cause and effect,’” Steven says. “You cannot place a large object in a space and expect it to have no impact.” When asked to expand on what this statement means, Steven says: “Placing an object in a space has an effect. It can be difficult if you have not constructed a building before to fully understand this. How do significant buildings affect the urban realm? Those conversations need to occur. For
me, that’s how we approach the work—it’s always contextual: “If I place an object in front of you,” he continues, “you move around it. How do you go around it? Is there a path? Is it soft or hard? Is it lit? Is it a civic space? If so, should it be dedicated to someone? These are the details we consider. We like to deconstruct and understand how cause and effect alters our concepts, how it can be affordable, and how the result satisfies the ultimate goal of our clients.” “Typically, we present designs that are bold,” Phil adds. “We take calculated risks in our work, striving for a balance between design excellence and physical construction. Does Windsor need that? We believe it does, but the market will tell us.” These two Windsor natives say their hometown still holds an important place in both their lives. “We are keen to be a part of Windsor’s growth, and to contribute to its current forward momentum,” Steven says. “How can we help the community we grew up in? I would love to go back to my high school, or to St. Clair, and talk to students, and tell them how it’s possible to be a positive contributor via Architecture.” “Passing your knowledge on, you’re making your world a better place to live,” Phil says. “The cool thing is we also play a major role in shaping the cities future.” To learn more about Steven and Phil and the next level work being done at matter architectural studio inc., check out their website matterinc.ca. W.E.
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Elizabeth Salonen The Industrial Design Virtuoso Behind Mottoform The vision guiding Mottoform defies labels, yet has its own distinct identity. By Matthew St. Amand Photos by Trevor Booth
Elizabeth Salonen has captured lightning in a bottle. She describes herself as an Industrial Designer, but all outside appearances indicate that she is an artist, entrepreneur, visionary. As one label is placed upon her, it’s shunted by another. The fact is, Elizabeth traverses the unyielding terrain of the marketplace like she is the person who drew the map. Having interned with Nike, worked with Ford Motor Company, lived in Finland where she founded Mottoform Design Studio, and did work for Suunto, among other well-known design brands, she is not content to rest on past success. “Right now, I’m working on two interior projects in Detroit,” Elizabeth tells W.E. Home & Lifestyle. “One of them is converting a mid-century building—formerly St. Vincent School in Corktown—into creative workspaces and residential units, and working on a Finnish community center in Farmington Hills.” As far back as she can remember, Elizabeth has wanted to work with her hands. “When I was very young, I wanted to be an archaeologist because of the digging and handling ancient objects,” she says. “During grade school, my mom did her masters at Cranbrook Academy of Art in graphic design, so I attended exhibition openings, and design became part of my world.
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When I encountered product design, later, I knew that was for me. I liked the 3D aspect, that you can hold it in your hands.” By the time she graduated high school, Elizabeth had a few bare outlines of what she wanted to do with her life. Having grown up in Windsor, her connection to Detroit ran deep, so it was a natural choice to attend Detroit’s College for Creative Studies, where she studied Industrial Design. During her time at CCS, Elizabeth landed an internship with Nike. “I designed concepts in the Running Shoe department,” Elizabeth says. “CCS has a strong Product Design department, so their students and grads get hired at big companies. Nike saw value in having an untrained, outside perspective— someone who wasn’t going with the rules.” Going outside of the rules was something Elizabeth brought to Ford Motor Company following graduation from CCS. “I was in colour material design, finishes, paint colour,” she remembers. “They tried to put me on a production car, but it wasn’t a good fit. So, I went to my director with a proposal for how they could make use of me—put me on the show cars. And they did.” Elizabeth traveled to California where she worked with the Brand Imaging group. She also worked with suppliers, and generally had broad creative freedom with Ford’s concept cars. “I stencilled graffiti messages in one car—silk-screened onto fabrics,” she says. “I was in there experimenting.” It might have seemed like a plum job, but Elizabeth’s true desire was to earn enough money to move to Europe. After two years with Ford, she moved to Finland. What Memphis, Tennessee is to the music business, Helsinki, Finland is to the world of Industrial Design. It helped that Elizabeth is of Finnish background—her father was born there. Elizabeth’s work has a way of preceding her. As she pondered her options in Helsinki, wondering if she should start her own design studio, Finnish watch company, Suunto, found an article about her in WGSN data base—the world’s leading consumer trend forecaster. “They invited me to come in and show my portfolio,” she explains. “They took me on as an outside designer, starting me on a small concept project that took a couple of months. That went well, so they gave me opportunities for larger projects.” One such project involved Suunto branching away from its staple offering: bulky, masculine, oversized watches for men. Suunto sought to create its first women-specific sports watch. “The project involved two years from concept to production, researching women and technology,” Elizabeth
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explains, “and going to sport and watch fairs throughout Europe, interviewing athletes, going through prototype rounds, conducting focus groups in the U.S. and in Europe.” The result was the Lumi watch design by Suunto, which the company describes as “an ABC (altimeter, barometer, compass) wristop computer designed for smart, active women.” Awards and industry recognition followed: In 2008, the Red Dot Design Award went to Suunto for its Lumi watch design. In 2009, the iF Product Design Award went to Suunto for its Lumi watch design. The kudos culminated with Elizabeth being named Industrial Designer of the Year by Ornamo, the Association of Designers, Helsinki, in 2012. After eight years in Finland, Elizabeth returned home to Windsor with her family. Her design vision continues to evolve, moving into interior spaces as demonstrated by her current projects in Detroit and Farmington Hills. “Having designed so many interior products from lighting, to textiles, patterns for wallpaper, furniture, artwork, and now also designing interior spaces, it’s a great opportunity for clients looking for customization and a modern/contemporary feel,” Elizabeth says. “My designs are a reflection of my Scandinavian heritage, and experience living in Helsinki, and tend to be more minimalist with an emphasis on craftsmanship, a feeling of lightness, wellness, and high quality materials.” For more information about the astonishing variety of products and projects Elizabeth has worked on, visit Mottoform’s website at mottoform.com to view videos and photographs of her designs. To view Elizabeth’s minimalist artwork and collectible objects, visit shop.mottoform.com and find her on Instagram at @mottoform.
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(RE)MAKING HISTORY
Distinguished Riverside Home Undergoes Glow-Up of the Century By Jen Brignall-Strong. Photos by Trevor Booth After a momentous transformation nearly two years in the making, one of the city’s most recognizable estates is ready for the next chapter of its storied history. Located in the heart of Windsor’s “Golden Mile,” 6425 Riverside Drive East is a stunning Classic Revival style home with antebellum elements, now updated and completely re-imagined with visionary style, luxurious finishes, and superb craftsmanship.
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making it his permanent residence and living there until his passing in 1937. While not officially designated a heritage home, the Senator William T. McGraw House is recognized for its cultural heritage value and was added to the Windsor Municipal Heritage Register with the first group of non-designated properties in 2007.
“I think that’s part of what makes this house so special,” says listing agent Doris Lapico, realtor for Century 21 Showtime Realty Ltd. “We live in a world where everything is a teardown and I think they did such an amazing job revitalizing the home and bringing it back to life.”
After falling into disrepair over the past decade, the home was purchased by a local contractor who saw the potential of the stately manor and wanted to restore it to its former glory while introducing more modern amenities. The revitalization project began in early 2020 and quickly took on a life of its own, eventually wrapping up at the end of 2021.
The home was originally built in 1905 for Michigan Senator William T. McGraw, a prominent industrialist and real estate owner who was well known in both the Detroit and Windsor districts. The American tobacco industry magnate built the home initially as a summer cottage, later
“I love the fact that they took the bones of this house and they believed in it and got it to a level where it’s a piece of art,” says Lapico. “I think the house gives you this stunning gallery space and yet you see the wonder of being able to raise a family here.”
The 6,500 square foot home would indeed be ideal for a growing family, with four large bedrooms, five bathrooms, and plenty of space for entertaining with a relaxed, Speakeasy-style family room and light filled reading room. “This house has created the most interest ever,” says Lapico. “There’s been a lot of activity on it.” One of the biggest draws is the ultra-modern entertainer’s kitchen by Joe’s Woodcraft of Windsor, complete with built-in appliances, an extra-large island and pantry, as well as an entryway to a huge stone patio. Aside from the reconfiguration of the kitchen, the original footprint of the home remains largely intact, although not many of the interior elements were salvageable. Thankfully, the team was able to restore several key pieces, including the main staircase and a gorgeous bronze sculpture on the king newel post that doubles as a unique light fixture. They also managed to refurbish two of the homes fireplaces, saving the original mahogany wood surround as well as original tiling, which was made in Detroit in the early 1900s. “They kept some really nice elements; those fireplaces and the staircase are really special,” notes Lapico. The home’s vestibule was restored as well, with the original door and sidelights stripped and refinished. The team even managed to refinish a giant walk-in safe in the basement, taking it safely out of commission and creating a one-of-a-kind sitting area. The exterior of the property also underwent some substantial upgrades: the ornate columns that frame the front entrance were modernized, and the dormer windows were clad with a natural cedar shake to create a warmer, more organic feel. “This house is just such a spectacular meld of history, modern amenities, and cutting edge design,” says Lapico’s colleague, realtor Matt Biggley. “When everyone is flocking to brand new, this is like brand new but with such a cool history behind it.” “I think sometimes people can sometimes misinterpret ‘historic’ as meaning it has to stay the same,” continues Biggley, a former history teacher. “Really history is the story of change and continuity; what stays the same and what continues to evolve.” Lapico agrees. “For us, we want to tell the story of this house. If these walls could talk, we want to be the voice behind them,” she says. “It’s more than just a sale for us, which is why we really dug into the history behind the home. As a team, we want to educate people on the wonders of this beautiful property.” To view this magnificent property, please contact Sales Representative Doris Lapico directly at 519-796-0174 today.
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