style M
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A Better Way to Build Spring 2008 $4.75
Taking home design beyond the open concept Guitar & Pen
Connecting with Alfie Zappacosta
Urban Renaissance
Contemporary dĂŠcor meets eco-friendly design
at Ashley we create fashion, provide selection, deliver value 1580 Regent Ave W 1000 St James St Winnipeg, MB Winnipeg, MB 204.783.6400 204.669.4466
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Volume 12, Number 3 Spring 2008
In this issue
M A N I T O B A
64 8 FEATURES
8 A Better Way to Build Taking home design beyond the open concept 67 Best of the Best... Great housing options for seniors 93 Neighbourhoods Developers & builders roll out their finest 122 Urban Renaissance Contemporary space meets eco-friendly design
FINANCIAL
19 Steady as She Goes
LIFESTYLES 23 27 46 47 50
Road Trip to Rush Bay Stepping Out With Style On the Bookshelf Styling the Stereo Fab Finds
74 CUISINE DU JOUR
LANDSCAPING
EN VOGUE
NEW INNOVATIONS & PRODUCTS
34 Delectable Dining 64 Tasty Spring Recipes
74 Landscaping ideas, designs & advice
52 Looking Good, Seeing Better 57 Where Fashion & Beauty Meet
PROFILES
33 Guitar & Pen Connecting with Alfie Zappacosta 45 Art of the Prairie Local studio celebrates 30 creative years 49 Slow the Flo An interview with Dr. Dawda
HEALTH & BEAUTY
85 Tough & Easy 87 No Pane, No Gain
KITCHEN & BATH
131 Show-stopping ensuites & delightful designer kitchens
DESIGN & DÉCOR
134 Creative decorating ideas from the pros 143 Transforming Dreams Into Reality
55 Pampering Paradise 60 New looks for spring 62 Beauty Buzz
DEPARTMENTS 2 Style Was There 5 The Agenda 7 Your Thoughts
50
Buffy Sainte Marie performs at the 2007 Winter Wassail.
was there...
Selina Malko (Last Tangle) & Style’s Lisa Lester backstage at MTS Centre with Blue Rodeo’s lead singer Jim Cuddy.
Trevor Ferens & Ed Charles of Granite Mountain at the Kitchen & Bath Show.
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Buffy Sainte Marie receiving the Winnipeg Folk Festival Artistic Achievement Award at the 2007 annual Winter Wassail.
Harlequin reunites for a fundraiser at Mona Lisa Ristorante.
Chad Kroeger of Nickelback dazzles the crowd at MTS Centre.
Officials gather to cut the ribbon at the grand opening of Granny’s new state of the art facility.
Clad in medieval attire, Wassail participants lend character to the evening’s theme.
The Agency’s Ralph James flanked by the ladies of Style, Rita van Leeuwen & Lisa Lester.
Nickelback heats up the stage with a trademark fiery performance.
Goldeyes’ shortstop Max Poulin & Uptown’s Ashley Rogocki.
A bevvy of beauties brave the cold at Saffron's outdoor ice bar.
Saffron’s John Kolevris (2nd from left) with fellow “Ice Bar” patrons at a recent fundraiser for Cancercare.
Devica Bhairo (front left) celebrates with associates at the grand reopening of her newly renovated store, Diva Lingerie.
Lisa Lester & Neil Schellar entertaining the crowd at Saffron’s.
92 Citi FM’s Howard Mandshein with Greg Purnell, Dave Turney, BB Gordon, Big Dave McLean & Greg Black.
Friends, staff & associates gather at Style Manitoba’s holiday soiree:
Lonestar Launch Style art director Paul Butters & Tannis Brown
Curtis Cross (Assante), Karen Zapp (Kitchen Craft) & Style editor, Rita van Leeuwen
(front left & right) Magda & Ken Zelickson (Interior Illusions) with Lori & Derek Thorsteinson (Parkhill Homes)
Style’s Gary MacKay with daughter, Terri Lynn
Style Shutterbug John Johnston & Lynn Werry
Rich Duclos (Pro-Data), Style’s Ava van Leeuwen & Michael MacKay (Advantage Business Services) spring 2008 | STYLE MANITOBA | 3
Editor
Rita van Leeuwen Art Director
Paul Butters
Director of Marketing
Eric A. Green
Editorial Contributors
Custom Kitchen Design Traditional and Contemporary Cabinets Wall Units and Furniture The Finest in Cabinetry
Heirloom
Cabinetry Ltd.
Unit 11 Terracon Place Tel. 204 237 8480 Fax. 204 237 8659
Aileen Goos Kelly Gray Christine Hanlon Randal McIlroy Quentin Mills-Fenn Ian Mozdzen Leigh Patterson Mia van Leeuwen Renee Sierra
Photography
E-mail: barry@heirloomcabinetry.ca
John Johnston, Michael Roberts, Lance Thompson, Isabel Wolinsky
Website: www.heirloomcabinetry.ca
Advertising & Editorial Assistant
Ava van Leeuwen
Advertising Sales Executives
Lisa Lester Gary MacKay Printing
Transcontinental Printing LGM Graphics Subscription Inquiries
Style Manitoba Suite 6 – 310 Nairn Avenue Winnipeg, Manitoba R2L 0W9 Phone: (204) 982-4455 Fax: (204) 982-4454 Internet
Website: www.stylemanitoba.com Email: info@stylemanitoba.com Subscription Rates
Canada: 4 issues $25.72 8 issues $39.09 Payable by cheque or money order. Includes GST.
Style Manitoba is published four times annually, Suite 6, 310 Nairn Avenue, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R2L 0W9. Phone : (204) 982-4455 Fax: (204) 982-4454. Distribution : Distributed free in pre-selected areas of Manitoba, available by subscription from the publisher and by purchase at participating newsstand locations. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited. The publisher can not be responsible for unsolicited manuscripts and photographs. Those wishing to submit editorial should contact the editor at the business office or enclose a stamped, self-addressed envelope for return. Copyright (c) Style Manitoba 1996. ISSN 1205-7282. Manitoba edition.
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the agenda Yes – it’s minus 47 right now with the wind chill factor, but you have to believe it – spring is right around the corner! Only a Winnipegger can understand the dramatic temperature swings in our province and have the temperament to bear the season through. Let’s face it – living in this city takes a bit of fortitude, a warm parka and several extra pairs of gloves. (I’ve lost three pairs so far this winter, and believe me, driving home this last couple days without them has been a challenge! In fact, I think I left some palm skin on the car door handle last night!)
By the time this issue hits the streets, the weather will likely have changed, and you’ll all be in the mood for contemplating spring things, like wearing lighter jackets, switching from boots to shoes and getting outdoors for longer periods of time. Maybe some of you will even be ready for a little landscape planning or showhome touring. With that in mind, this edition of Style Manitoba features some of our province’s finest building talent and best residential developments, as can be evidenced at various locations during the Spring 2008 Parade of
Homes. There’s plenty to read in this issue, from our fabulous home story A Better Way to Build, to our extensive coverage on the gorgeous waterfront condo project featured in Urban Renaissance. Local landscaping and lawn care professionals also step up and show us their stuff in this edition, as do some of the latest boutiques, salons and spas in Winnipeg. In fact, there’s a bit of something for everyone this time around. Enjoy!
Thermador’s State of the Art INDUCTION COOKING This high performing Cooktop utilizes eletronomagnetic technology to directly heat only the pan while leaving the surrounding surface cooler. Induction cooktops have the flexibility and versatility of gas, plus the responsiveness of induction makes it quicker and more efficient particularly when bringing a pot of water to boil or simmering sauces. Induction features the fastest response to changes in power levels so your food consistently maintains the necessary heat. For more information on the Induction Cooktop visit:
spring 2008 | STYLE MANITOBA | 5
Custom-Designed Home Theatre
Home Automation & Control
Multi-Room Audio & Video
The Advanced Residential Technology (ART) a division of Advance Electronics, specializes in Custom Home Entertainment & Home Automation. The electronic system of your dreams may be as simple as music throughout the house, a customized Home Theatre or even total control over all of your home’s electrical functions – with the touch of a button. ART’s experienced and professional staff works with clients, designers & builders to ensure the successful completion of a project.
Joel Bouvier
A.R.T. Division Manager
Dave Sikorski-Thorn A.R.T. Sales/Design
Bruno Deleau
A.R.T. Sales/Design
Michael Charach
A.R.T. Sales/Design
Sales/Design Consultant, Dave Sikorski discusses home entertainment possibilities with a potential customer.
Jenny Texteira - Office Manager
Brent Tirschman - Project Manager
Crystal Granger - Administration
Steve Nishi Head Installer
Andrew Davidson System Programmer
Kevin Muir Installer
Lyle Krahn Installer
Darren Kilmister Installer
Mark Mueller Installer
Warren Jerris Installer
Chris Toffen Installer
Craig Smith Installer
Barry Keeper Installer
Justin Lagasse Installer
Dale Tinkler Shop Supervisor
Head Installer, Steve Nishi prepares a ceiling for speaker and motorized projector screen installation.
Let us do it for you.... 6 | STYLE MANITOBA | spring 2008
Open Mon. to Fri. 8:30am - 9pm • Sat. to 6pm • Closed Sundays
Your
Thoughts Loved your cover story on Ralph James! It’s great to see how well he’s done, from his previous fame with Harlequin to managing hugely popular bands like Nickelback. It just proves there are amazing career options on the other side of the stage. And to think he’s a former Winnipegger! - Leslie Stevens, Winnipeg The holiday decorating editorial featuring Arnold Tiessen’s lovely home was beautiful. I’m an all-out decorating fanatic when it comes to the Christmas season and truly appreciated the classy look Arnold pulled off in this gorgeous setting! Thanks for the excellent coverage – it gave me fresh ideas for next year’s yuletide décor. - Beth Warnock, Winnipeg Thanks for that fabulous holiday gift guide in the winter issue of Style Manitoba! It’s nice to discover so many hidden gems in Winnipeg, particularly when one is seeking unique gifts for loved ones during the holiday season. My husband and I went to at least four of the shops featured. - Erica Jonasson, Winnipeg
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SALES • RENTALS • LESSONS
My wife and I noticed the beautiful renovation work of All Canadian Renovations in your last issue. We’re considering an addition ourselves in the next year, so it’s great to see there are solid options out there with a skilled renovation company like All Canadian. It’s clear their work is topnotch. Keep up the great coverage – it’s extremely useful for those considering a reno project. - Garth Bromfeld, Winnipeg I loved the Buffy Sainte-Marie profile that ran in your last issue. The piece on artist Megan Vun Wong also captured my interest. Good for you folks at Style – it’s great to see a local publication that covers talented artists such as these two ladies! It’s obvious that Style Manitoba does not ignore the arts – I see coverage in each and every issue you publish. Thank you! - James Reynolds, Winnipeg
Proud Supporter of Music in Manitoba 1308 Portage Avenue • 233 4151 166 Meadowood Drive • 231 1677 www.questmusique.com spring 2008 | STYLE MANITOBA | 7
A Better Way to Build
W
e’re all familiar with the open concept. Airy expanses and unobstructed sightlines create a sense of spaciousness and flow from room to room. It’s a far cry from the boxy houses of the early 20th century, and certainly an improvement from the living room/dining room combinations that tried to inject a modicum of continuity and fell short of the ultimate vision. But have we gone too far? Rob Swan of Huntington Homes repeats a joke about the overly open design concept. The homeowner opens the door to a guest and asks: “Would you like to come in and look around?” The visitor answers: “It’s okay. I can see everything quite well from the front door, thank you.” Not so in Huntington’s latest display home. In the perpetual pursuit of a better way to build, this builder has taken the design beyond open concept. “From the foyer, you can get glimpses of the great room and even the river through the art glass wall, but your whole house isn’t on display,” notes Swan. “We wanted to create something that didn’t feel like it was creating a division, but did.” Facing the main entrance, a wall with a series of etched glass panels strikes a balance between openness and privacy. The ample foyer with its 11-foot ceilings acts as a true reception area. A staircase leads down to the finished walkout lower level; one hallway leads to the bedrooms in the private wing of the house and another leads to the common areas: the great room, dining room, kitchen and outdoor deck. Behind the glass, the spaces are open, yet defined. A nine-foot island with pendant lighting delimits the kitchen area. Meanwhile, a bulkhead with recessed lights sets the dining room apart from the great room. With its floor-to-ceiling windows and captivating directional pot lights, there’s no question the great room is the central gathering space in this contemporary house. Forget about those front living rooms no one ever used. This is a space for both living and entertaining. According to Swan, it was Huntington Homes that first introduced the great room concept to Winnipeg back in 1993. “From a design point of view, we were quite influenced by our travels to the U.S.,” he recalls. “Because we’re in the design business, a lot of what we do is more leading edge than your typical builder.” 8 | STYLE MANITOBA | spring 2008
By Christine Hanlon Photography: Michael Roberts The engineered maple floor by Curtis Carpets features a rich charcoal stain that coordinates perfectly with the contemporary entertainment unit.
Directional recessed lighting accents the wall in the great room, while the three-sided fireplace accentuates the openness of the shared living areas. Large Low-E glass argon-filled windows with solar shield from Jeld-Wen capture the river view while keeping the interior comfortable.
He remembers watching people walk through their 1993 display home and pause to do a count of the rooms before realizing the living room was missing. A short while later, another builder asked Swan if his tradespeople could walk through the house to see what a great room was all about. “In effect, the great room was the beginning of the open concept plan,” reflects Swan. “Then it went beyond what people really wanted. Suddenly, the paper boy at your front door could see right into your great room, dining room and kitchen.” Another effect of developing the great room was to prompt Huntington to delve even further into designing. Between 1987 and 1990, the builder, along with a team of consulting engineers, focused on analyzing any and every specification typical to a custom-built home. As a result, the builder changed 156 specifications and incorporated these new standards into every home they built. The specs were selected according to two criteria: solving typical problems and cost-effectiveness. Huntington was committed to building a better product priced competitively with typical products in the marketplace. As a result, the builder was the first in Manitoba to standardize such elements as foundation piles, wood structural basement floors, steel beams and engineered floor systems in every home. Incorporating these specifications then drove the company’s need to get into the design business. In this way, the builder could ensure all the specifications were part of each plan. “Because we customdesign as well as build, we have more control over the final result,” explains Swan. spring 2008 | STYLE MANITOBA | 9
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Visions Kitchen Showcase coupled quartz countertops from Western Marble & Tile with custom-stained flat veneer maple cabinets. Today, the company has four architectural design people in-house, operating on the latest versions of CAD, a technology that allows people to visualize their future home in 3-D as opposed to a typical twodimensional plan. “Once we reached a certain level where we were comfortable with the quality of products and materials, then we turned our focus to streamlining and simplifying the design and building process so our clients could have an enjoyable experience,� notes Swan. He adds that for the new homebuyer, one of the biggest stresses is budget. To address this issue, the company developed software that works in conjunction with the CAD program to accurately price out a house down to the last penny. At the same time, the program generates all subtrade contracts, as well as a schedule for how long each trade person needs to complete the work. This allows Huntington to reliably deliver on time and on budget. But the builder does not limit these advances to corporate operations. In keeping with Huntington’s relentless pursuit of the latest technology, this house does not disappoint. The home features a Carrier Infinity modulating furnace, the most sophisticated gas heating system on the
Grohe faucets and undermount Kindred stainless steel sinks from Robinson Bath Centre.
Exclusive 36-inch Thermador Star Burner rangetop from Midland Appliance World.
The oval shape of the six-light chandelier from Robinson Lighting is perfect for the rectangular table and room. spring 2008 | STYLE MANITOBA | 11
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The continuous whirlpool deck becomes a seat in the frameless shower by Shodor. market. This computer-controlled chipbased system features a multi-speed furnace that runs at a lower base speed and moves air more often. This eliminates hot and cold spots while translating into significant gas and electrical savings. Another exciting feature is the use of special engineered studs to secure the cabinetry to the walls. This eliminates gapping caused when typical studs make walls bow out during cold weather. Just as in all Huntington Homes, nothing has been overlooked, from the reconceptualized design to the highest quality materials to the latest technological innovations that make the home into what Swan refers to as “high performance housing.� This is indeed a better way to build a home.
A walkout lower level adds 1,615 square-feet of living space. The media room was equipped by Advance Electronics. A place perfect for recreation and entertaining.
Openness and privacy: pocket doors separate the master bedroom and the ensuite.
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S tyle F ile Windows - Jeld-Wen Flooring & all tiles - Curtis Carpets Lighting - Robinson Lighting Cabinetry - Visions Kitchen Showcase Bathroom fixtures - Robinson Bath Centre Frameless shower door - Shodor Fireplace - Prairie Fireplaces Quartz countertop - Western Marble & Tile Appliances - Midland Appliances Media room technology - Advance Electronics Window treatments - Superblinds & Draperies Etched glass panels - MPD Glass Pool table - Wolf Billiards
About the Builder When Rob Swan and Sheldon Swan founded Huntington Homes in 1986, they were committed to a professional business-minded approach to building homes. Today, this commitment remains at the forefront of their corporate development. “Our entire operation is extremely computerized and always has been,” notes Swan. “We were selling chip-based technology before most people knew what it was.” In fact, before entering the custombuilding business over 20 years ago, Swan and his brother managed the city’s Sony Office Products Dealership for Manitoba, specializing in microchip board technology. It is perhaps this business background that made Swan more sensitive to people’s needs for transparency in budgeting the building process. There are over 1,000 line items in the program that calculate the price of a new home. For instance, instead of an allocation per square foot, the lighting budget reflects the exact number of light fixtures and fixture types that will be installed. In a Huntington Home, that same kind of precision is evident in every aspect of construction, from an exacting installation of wall tiles to the custom-spray process for giving cabinets a consistent look to the perfect humidity level controlled right from the thermostat. Thanks to the builder’s meticulous approach to planning, everything comes out exactly as planned. Virtual walk-through tours of Huntington Home’s latest display home are available on their website at www.huntingtonhomes.com. The builder was the first in Manitoba to use this technology to showcase its work.
Visions Kitchen Showcase Innovative Cabinet Designs
Simply Elegant Ph: 668-9896
visionskitchenshowcase.com spring 2008 | STYLE MANITOBA | 15
SERENITY, EXCLUSIVITY, LIFESTYLE
HE T IN G ’S N 0 I 0 T 2 R STA MID
LAKESIDE LUXURY Nestled in the heart of New Iceland on majestic Lake Winnipeg is Gimli. Boasting sandy beaches, invigorating outdoor activities, as well as an array of eclectic shops, restaurants, and festivals. Downtown energy and lakeside serenity.
A W.R.E. Development/Welham Corp. project.
For more information please call 1-204-956-5057
w w w. w e s t p o i n t c o n d o s . c a 16 | STYLE MANITOBA | spring 2008
Home Security Brings Peace of Mind Protecting your family and home
means more than just safeguarding against burglars. There’s a host of other factors that contribute to your peace of mind. “There’s an increased sense of safety and security when you go to sleep at night and you know you’re fully protected,” says Kathie Gerrard, Marketing Manager of AAA Alarms In addition to burglary detection, consider your options for environmental monitoring services, including smoke or fire, sumppump failure, sudden increase or decrease in temperature and the silent but potentially deadly carbon monoxide levels in your home. Some products are acutely sensitive, like the flood sensor that can detect as little as four millimeters of water and will send a signal to the monitoring station if water levels start to rise.
D E P E N DAAAB L E Monitoring as low as $14.50/mo.* 204 949.0078 | 1 866 949.0078 | AAAalarms.ca * Monitoring fees start at $19.50/month when paid quarterly or semi-annually. Customers on an MTS bundle who sign up for the MTS-AAA Bundle will see a $5.00/month AAA/MTS bundle discount on their monthly MTS bill. This special offer is yours when you bundle any combination of the following MTS services – MTS TV, MTS High Speed Internet or MTS postpaid cellular service – see mts.ca/bundles for details. AAA ALARMS From MTS
“If you’re an avid traveler or spend time away during the winter months, it’s comforting to know we’re watching your home, so if the furnace breaks down while you’re away you don’t come home to frozen or burst water pipes,” says Gerrard, who explains that if a sensor is activated, AAA Alarms will contact the homeowner or a key holder (a trusted friend or family member who has quick access to your home) to check on the situation. In the example of a carbon monoxide signal received from a home, AAA Alarms will immediately dispatch the fire department to the scene and attempt to contact you to evacuate your home. Costs vary, depending on the products and services you choose, starting at $249 for a basic residential system. Gerrard suggests homeowners set up a consultation with an AAA Alarm Security Consultant who can help determine the right package for your needs.
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Small Business Advantage
Front Row: L to R - Chris Bird, Dave King, Evan Wilcosh, Bo Dannefaer, Kelly Carter, Russell Lagasse Back Row: L to R - Francois LeGal, Paul Kochanski, Paul Jarvis, Réal Aubin, Daniel Peri, Dave Jenkins
It’s time to take the small business line into the digital age. Fortunately, Shaw Cablesystems has some attractive options to offer with its SOHO digital phone packages. An acronym for Small Office Home Office, SOHO Digital Phone Lite and SOHO Digital Phone are designed to help small businesses grow by providing needed features and services, all in one package. With all the demands of running a business, it’s a relief to have complete and reliable phone service. And with the rising costs of doing business, who isn’t looking to bring down the price of that monthly bill? At a cost of only $35 a month, SOHO Digital Phone Lite has a lot to offer. The package includes all essential features such as voice mail, call display, call forwarding, call waiting, call return and three-way calling. And it also includes complimentary
411 directory assistance, 711 message relay service and 911 at no extra cost. Perfect for the light long distance user, this package offers anytime calling at 4¢ a minute within Canada and the United States, as well as to more than 50 countries in the U.K., Europe, Asia Pacific and South America. Or, for those businesses which are heavier long-distance users, Shaw offers SOHO Digital Phone service. At $65 a month, this package includes all the features of SOHO Digital Phone Lite, as well as 1000 free minutes per month of long distance to Canada and the United States. Subscribers can also add another number with the distinctive ring option, a great solution for fax machines. In fact, taking advantage of either type of Shaw’s SOHO Digital
Phone products does not require an Internet connection. Installation is usually complimentary, as are service calls. Technical support is available every day at any time, day or night. When switching to Shaw digital phone service, subscribers can keep their existing phone number. The business line package also includes a listing in both the white and yellow pages. Businesses can also keep their existing hardware. As stated by Paul Kochanski, Sales Manager at Shaw Cablesystems, handsets, jacks and wires for existing phones all stay the same. Voice quality is also unchanged. In fact, the only feature that does change is the improved level of service and the lower price. And making these even more attractive is Shaw’s latest promotional offer. Choose one month free plus three
months at $19.95 for SOHO Lite, or one month free and three months at $39.95 for SOHO Digital Phone. Also priced competitively are Shaw Business Solutions geared for large businesses. Shaw Business Solutions provides fiber-based Carrier Class I services offering symmetrical bandwidth. Besides meeting data transfer needs, this technology transfers voice service through primary branch exchange (Pbx) or PRI-capable key telephone systems. There are a variety of billing plans and bandwidths designed to fulfill a business’ usage requirements. These include flat rate or sustained metered billing and bandwidths ranging from 1Mbps to 10 Gbps. No matter the size of the business or the demands of the workday, Shaw Cablesystems has the digital solution to meet any need, big or small.
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$
by Renee Sierra
“If you’ve seen the news, you already know that markets are moving only slightly less than a buoy in a perfect storm.”
Steady as She Goes… As Senior Financial Advisor with Assante Financial Management, Curtis Cross has some thoughts on today’s volatile markets and how it affects investment decisions. “People are very curious as to what the markets will do, especially given the troubles in the US,” says Curtis. Long term financial planning has been the hallmark of Assante, and once again, this tried and true Assante approach is proving its worth. Sir John Templeton wisely said that ‘bull markets are born on pessimism, grown on scepticism, mature on optimism and die on euphoria.’ “In other words,” says Curtis, “emotional investing is the most important reaction to avoid.” As always, he backs his statements up with facts and figures. The effects of emotional investing vs. strategic investing were measured by Dalbar Inc. over the last 20 years, and the results bear Curtis out. The study found that the average US equity investor realized a 4.3% return over the last 20 years vs. the S&P 500, which produced a healthy 11.8% return. “The reason for this discrepancy is because when you are emotional about what the market is doing day to day, you may want to sell out when things are not so good with the idea of jumping back in when the market swings back,” Curtis explains. “What you have done, however, is the exact opposite of the golden rule of profit, ‘buy low, sell high,’ and that type of strategy will not produce the gains you want in the end.” Dalbar also found that the long-term government bond index returned 8.5% over the past 20 years compared to fixed income investors’ return of 1.7%. Inflation compounds the effect to realize 3% for the equity investor. “What this means is that trying to time or guess the market has not met the gains that long term investing has been returning for years. A lot of what is happening right now in the markets is just media noise,” says Curtis. “And it is easy to listen and then make bad decisions. The strength of a good financial plan will curtail that instinctive reaction we all feel sometimes due to fear.”
The Importance of Being Diversified General investors and media sentiment suggest that things are not good. However, historically that feeling translates into an indicator that recovery is right around the corner. That said, past performance cannot predict the future. “Market anxiety is more of an issue now than ever before,” notes Curtis. “The US has suffered enormous events such as 9/11, Y2K, WorldCom, Enron, and Hurricane Katrina that continue to affect the markets.” Although these kinds of events can trigger a bear market, it is important to remember that bear markets usually lead to new prospects, and waiting until there is no uncertainty can mean a missed opportunity. Global diversification exposes the investor to markets that are performing in different ways. “World markets have outperformed Canada 70% of the time form 1981 to 2006, and therefore present an excellent case for well-managed global diversification within the portfolio,” suggests Curtis. “At this time, it is important to stay focused, stay invested, and stay diversified, so that your money takes advantage of potentially profitable scenarios around the world.” “The investor of today does not profit from yesterday’s growth” – Warren Buffett Dalbar Inc. studied 66,100 analyst reports in the late ‘90s and found that 75% of the reports were wrong by more than a 30% margin. In other words, these reports missed the target by 60%. “It’s fun to read the analyses, and I do all the time obviously, but we urge our clients to essentially ignore most of what is written, because bears hibernate and bulls charge back, and we really cannot predict what will happen in the future based on past performance.” “When markets are rough, it is much smarter to batten down the hatches and hold steady than take any other action, and a strong financial plan with Assante will ensure that you will weather any perfect storm heading our way,” Curtis advises.
spring 2008 | STYLE MANITOBA | 21
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ROAD TRIP TO RUSH BAY Reluctantly practical luxury - AWD sport sedans Whoever would have thought BMW, Lexus and Infiniti luxury sedans could be practical? These AWD manufacturers do! In this issue, we will challenge each aspect of their durability. The Road Trip to Rush Bay offers the ideal testing of each vehicle’s adeptness and seasonal functionality. The varying journey from Winnipeg deep into the secluded Canadian Wilderness not only offers beauty and serenity, but a challenging track to gallop
these stallions. Each of these luxury sedans offer comfort and capacity required for daily living, reasonable fuel efficiency combined with great styling and AWD peace of mind. Surprisingly, each of these vehicles can be attained for a reasonable price if properly sourced. Whether venturing on a rural road trip or to The Gates for a fine steak, each of these graceful AWD sedans will offer a reluctantly smart and graceful escort.
Trevor Nott President NOTT AutoCorp
BMW 235 XI 6 cyl. 3.0 L 215 HP AWD
Lexus IS250 6 cyl. 2.5 L 204 HP AWD
Infinity G35X 6 cyl. 3.5 L 280 HP AWD
Styling/HOT FACTOR SAFETY/ RELIABILITY COMFORT/ convenience Performance/Handling COST/ RETENTION VALUE Off Road/Durability
BMW 325 XI
I’m invoking a new BMW rule when comparing its performance and handling to the competition. Similarly to when we were organizing hockey pools, we would generally invoke the ‘delete Gretzky rule’. BMW’s second to none reputation for engineering, and world class driving luxury sedan continues with this version, only now in an AWD. Hot Button Bulletproof engineering, as usual. Eyecatching exterior styling. Cold Button Only adequate interior styling. Has fallen to a distant second for luxurious cabin design to the Lexus.
Infinity G35X
Infiniti has long been considered the youngest brother in this class of luxury sedans. Little brother is quickly growing up but still has some insecurities to overcome. Hot Button Great ETTESA adaptive AWD system. Fun to drive with a responsive power plant. Cold Button Engineers are compensating for lack of pedigree and overall quality with raspy horsepower. Dated interior.
Lexus IS250
Approach this car from any angle and it will captivate even the most discriminating eye. The Japanese sextuplets under the hood offer a sweet note that even the irreverent Simon Cowell would applaud. Hot Button This car oozes luxury inside and out. The provocative interior cabin is simply Lexuslicious!! Cold Button Smallish interior and only adequate horsepower.
NOTT’S HOT BUY
In these times of expensive fuel, global warming and harsh winters, these vehicles offer a great option to the typical thirsty SUVs. Lexus has a cutting edge design and a cabin second to none. The incumbent BMW continues to offer a strong product in the competitive segment of the luxury sedans. Infiniti has dominant horsepower and their industry leading ETTESA AWD system. When considering Lexus’s salacious funky styling and overall sexy fun factor, the IS250 is this issue’s AWD HOT BUY! To test drive or gather further information about custom importing these or any other vehicles, please visit NOTTAUTOCORP.com or call 204-889-NOTT (6688). No roads were injured and harmed during the testing of these animals.
spring 2008 | STYLE MANITOBA | 23
The all-new personal luxury crossover.
The all-new personal luxury crossover. The all-new personal luxury crossover.
The all-new 2008 Infiniti EX. Priced to perform from :migVdgY^cVgn# ;ZVijg^c\/ '., =E (#* a^igZ K+ Zc\^cZ >ciZaa^\Zci 6aa"L]ZZa * 9g^kZ 6YVei^kZ ;gdci A^\]i^c\ HnhiZb HXgViX] H]^ZaY EV^ci 6jidbVi^X IZbeZgVijgZ 8dcigda INFINITI EX35
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INFINITI EX35
INFINITI EX35
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nearest Infiniti dealership for more information. Wheels not exactly as shown. See your Infiniti Dealership for details.
Birchwood Infiniti Birchwood Infiniti
3965 Unit 50, 50,Winnipeg, Winnipeg,MB MB 3965Portage Portage Ave., Ave., Unit Phone: 3490 ·· fax: fax:(204) (204)831 8314229 4229 Phone:(204) (204) 261 261 3490 *MSRP *MSRP is 42,050 for a new (E6SG78 AA00). Freight and and PDEPDE $1,650, license, insurance, registration fees sell for forless. less.Dealer Dealerorder/trade order/trade may necessary. Offer is aforlimited a limited change without and cannot be combined with anyoffers. otherSee offers. is 42,050 for a2008 new EX35 2008 EX35 (E6SG78 AA00). Freight $1,650, license, insurance, registration feesand andtaxes taxesare areextra. extra. Dealer Dealer may sell may bebe necessary. Offer is for time,time, may may change without noticenotice and cannot be combined with any other yourSee your nearestnearest Infiniti Infiniti dealership for more Wheels not exactly as shown. SeeSee your Infiniti Dealership forfor details. dealership for information. more information. Wheels not exactly as shown. your Infiniti Dealership details.
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24 | STYLE MANITOBA | spring 2008
Offering extraordinary luxury and personal refinement,
Pictured here: Scott Pollett, Infiniti Sales Mnager, Birchwood Infiniti.
the Infiniti EX is designed to make every drive invigorating. And it’s loaded with excellent features as well. Designed around the 297-hp version of the award-winning VQ V6 engine, the EX’s Intelligent AllWheel Drive brings the crossover a true dynamic driving experience by delivering responsiveness as well as control. It actively adjusts based on driving conditions to give all-wheeldrive traction when you need it and rear-wheel-drive handling response when you don’t. Inspired by high-performance sports cars, the EX’s Front Midship (FM) platform centers the vehicle’s weight to help deliver quick steering response and precise balance through curves. Superior turning radius and independent suspension help intensify the connection between driver and road. And the interior’s exceptional as well. Black lacquer, aluminum, available maple wood and supple leathers add natural warmth and refined elegance to the interior. An array of colour and texture combinations allow for precisely tailoring the EX to personal taste. Upon approaching the EX, it senses your Intelligent Key and responds with the radiant glow of eight sequenced exterior and interior lights. Inside, its driver’s seat, steering wheel and outside mirror positions respond simultaneously to your adjustments with the available synchronization function. The tilt and telescoping steering wheel (with optional power) help provide maximum comfort and visibility. To easily accommodate seating and cargo needs, the 60/40 power folding 2nd-row seats fold flat at the push of a button. Another press powers the seats back to their upright position. Both front seats offer available power heating, and the driver’s seat has an available Driver’s Memory function that automatically adjusts the seat to preferred settings.
Style Meets Performance With great design comes great vision, along with new levels of confidence and convenience. The Infiniti-first Around View Monitor uses cameras on every side to see objects or vehicles around you. It then presents the surrounding environment in a composite bird’s eye perspective on the central screen. Available Lane Departure Prevention helps keep the EX from unintentionally drifting from its lane by utilizing sensors that monitor the distance between vehicle and lane markings. When your vehicle drifts unintentionally towards the lane markers, the system first sounds an audible warning, then lightly applies selected brakes to help ease your vehicle back into its lane.
Other nice touches include the available 9.3 GB Music Box hard drive, which allows you to rip up to 2,900 songs, then store and catalogue them for easy access. A compact flash card can also be inserted into the dash slot to listen to playlists from home. Or simply enjoy the standard XM® Satellite Radio.
building graphics give a clear image of where you are and want to go. All these features can easily be controlled through the touch-screen, the Infiniti Voice Recognition system or the centralized Infiniti Controller.
The available touch-screen Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation System features XM NavTraffic® with RealTime Traffic Information to monitor traffic flow, accidents and road closures, helping you avoid traffic and optimize your drive time. Lane Guidance also shows which lane to be in when approaching a highway interchange or exit, and 3-D
Shot on Location at Birchwood INFINITI at 3965 Portage Avenue.
If you’re dying to hit the road in the INFINITI EX, a test drive is a must!
spring 2008 | STYLE MANITOBA | 25
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Drawing on Icelandic and European influences, the Hecla Oasis Day Spa will pay special attention to unique anti-aging and detoxification treatments. These treatments will feature the exclusive moor mud line, cascading water therapies and much more than the usual day spa experience.
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HECLA OASIS GOLF The course features 18 championship caliber golf holes designed by J.A. Thompson. The breathtaking views are inspiring but the course is all business. The nearly 80 sand traps, doglegs, and natural water hazards will challenge golfers of all skill levels.
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info@heclaoasis.com www.heclaoasis.com 26 | STYLE MANITOBA | spring 2008
Stepping Out with Style March 2008 – May 2008
THEATRE Manitoba Theatre Centre – Do not miss the personal and deeply evocative The Syringa Tree by Pamela Gien. This story traces the abiding love between two families, one black and one white, and the two children who are born into their shared household in early 1960s South Africa (March 20-April 12). The MTC Theatre season closes with a bang with the Broadway musical and Hollywood motion picture hit Dreamgirls. Featuring a sizzling rhythm and blues score including Dreamgirls, Steppin’ to the Bad Side and Cadillac Car (April 24-May 17). MTC Warehouse – Audiences are brought to laughter and moved to tears with The Satchmo’ Suite, a musical play about the relationship between a modern-day classical cellist and the Father of Jazz himself, Louis Armstrong. Resplendent with jazz and classical music, The Satchmo’ Suite explores the polarities between head and heart, intellect and intuition (Mar 13-29). Prairie Theatre Exchange – The PTE season closes with David S. Craig’s Having Hope at Home, where modern medicine meets midwifery head-on in a torment of family feuding (March 26-April 13). Winnipeg Jewish Theatre – The season draws to a close with the daring comic-drama Lebensraum by the legendary Israel Horovitz. Three actors undertake over 60 roles, exploring the roots of World War II and the terrifying possibility that history could repeat itself in our time. Discover truths about the struggle between intolerance and tolerance, and revenge and the hope for humanity (April 30-May 11). Theatre Projects Manitoba – What’s happening on the streets of Winnipeg? Maybe that depends on what you look like. When you walk around your block, do the police routinely stop you to ask questions? How To Kill Yourself with a Screwdriver is a black comedy about growing up in the streets of Winnipeg. Part monodrama, part stand-up, purely theatrical! (March 13-23). Performances take place at the Times Change(d) High and Lonesome Club. If you’re looking for some of the sharpest minds on Winnipeg’s stages, you’ve come to the right place. In The Chamber presents daring work from some of Manitoba’s most exciting playwrights (May 1-3) Performances take place at the Gas Station Theatre.
Manitoba Theatre for Young People – The Star Keeper promises to be an exhilarating spring break treat for Winnipeg kids and their families. In his quest to return a fallen star, Pretzel embarks on a series of magical adventures that rival Bilbo’s in The Hobbit. The story is sweet and the visuals are among the finest ever seen on our stage! (March 26-April 6). Fantasy Theatre for Children – FTC is proud to be Winnipeg’s oldest children’s theatre. It operates 12 months each year, presenting shows that appeal to young and old alike. Check out The Ecology Show (March 31-April 6) and The Emperor’s New Clothes (May 19-25). All performances take place at Forrest Nickerson Theatre. Celebrations Dinner Theatre – Using the fantastic scope of Buddy Holly’s music, A Buddy Holly Birthday Bash explores what makes great music live forever, how music is inspired, and how it inspires our lives (until March 22). Don’t miss the grand opening of a new hospital in Grey’s House of Anatomy. Two of televisions top medical dramas roll into one evening filled with your favourite classic rock tunes of the ‘70s (March 28-May 24). From the producers of CSI: Moose Jaw comes: CSI: Winnipeg - Little Murder on the Prairie. The greatest forensic specialists have come from all over: Vegas, Miami, New York, and Moose Jaw. They have come to celebrate Gil Gruesome’s retirement. You’re invited too, but this party could turn out to be Gil’s most baffling and hilarious case ever!
(May 30-July 26). Performances take place at the Canad Inns, Fort Garry. Winnipeg Contemporary Dancers – WCD’s former Artistic Director Tedd Robinson returns to Winnipeg for the performance of his new solo work, REDD. An especially poignant performance, REDD marks Robinson’s final full length solo in a trilogy that began with Rokudo in 1996, and followed by Rigmarole in 2000 (April 4 & 5). Performances take place at The Gas Station Theatre. Next, the end of the season marks the conclusion of WCD’s Rachel Browne Legacy Campaign. Browne will perform her poignant work Flowering with long time colleague Odette Heyn-Penner. Susie Burpee will also be presenting new work created on the WCD company dancers (May 8, 9, 10). Performances take place at The Rachel Browne Theatre (no longer named the WCD Studio.) Royal Winnipeg Ballet – Journey to an enchanted kingdom where good triumphs over evil with a single kiss. Set to Tchaikovsky’s moving music, The Sleeping Beauty continues to be the world’s most popular ballet. See all of your favourite storybook characters – Little Red Riding Hood, Puss in Boots, Princess Aurora, Prince Désiré – on one stage. Timeless music, opulent costumes and sets, and best of all, spectacular dancing! An event for the entire family. (March 12-16). In All Balanchine watch as the RWB unveils three glittering gems from the legendary Russian-born artist George Balanchine. First up is the haunting Serenade (1934), a dance in the light of the moon; the spring 2008 | STYLE MANITOBA | 27
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neoclassical Concerto Barocco (1948) and the RWB premiere of the ground breaking masterpiece, The Four Temperaments (1946). Join the RWB as we present three jewels from the choreographer whose more than 400 works forever changed the dance world (May 7-11). All performances take place at the Centennial Concert Hall.
MUSIC Jazz Winnipeg – The Canadian Jazz Concerts Series season finishes with Michael Herring’s Vertigo featuring New York saxophonist David Binney. Herring is a bassist and composer, and while his focus is jazz, he is equally at home performing in a variety of genres, including folk, reggae and performance art (March 28th). Concert takes place at the Centre culturel franco-manitobain. The Nu Sounds Series concludes with a not to be missed performance by singer Mira Black. Mira will showcase original compositions created for her new musical called Lush Life. Mira Black will narrate her original play and sing the compositions written for four characters, while the remaining characters from the play, a jazz quartet, perform original jazz compositions and arrangements of jazz standards found within the story (April 13th). Performance takes place at the Park Theatre. Winnipeg Jazz Orchestra – Northern Chill meets Southern Thrill in a triple treat performance! Canadians Mike Herriott (trumpet) and Janice Finlay (saxophone) strut their stuff atop the explosive beat of Los Angeles drummer Sammy K (March 16). Performances take place at the Winnipeg Art Gallery. Join the WJC for their 1st Annual Flip for Jazz Gala. Swing and sway through three different venues at the Inn at the Forks, listening to everything from smooth jazz to the sounds of big band, as you sip Jazztinis, savour hors d’oeuvres as exquisite as Billie Holiday’s voice, and nibble on desserts as sweet as Norah Jones (April 15). This event takes place at the Inn at the Forks. In what may be his farewell performance, Juno
award-winning trumpet and flugelhorn master Guido Basso joins the WJO with his renowned charisma and influential jazz works that have been thrilling audiences worldwide for over four decades. On stage with him is soulful NYC vocalist Cynthia Scott whose career includes stints with the Ray Charles band and Cab Calloway, among others (April 27). Performances take place at the Winnipeg Art Gallery.
The Winnipeg Singers – Come out to celebrate Manitoba’s 137th birthday with a concert devoted to the province’s incredibly talented choral composers: Robert Turner, Chester Duncan, W.H. Belyea, Reni Bouchard, W.H. Anderson, Bernard Naylor, John Greer, Andrew Balfour, Leonard Enns and Sid Robinovich (May 11). Concert takes place at St. George’s Anglican Church.
Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra – The Masterworks B series continues with Verdi Requiem, a powerful composition of extraordinary drama and emotional intensity that contribute to the Requiem’s status as one of the greatest icons of Western music. This concert features four gifted soloists and a combined choir featuring more than 200 of the best voices in the country (March 22). Musically Speaking presents two ways of looking at the artist in society through Wagner’s stirring Die Meistersinger (an earlier version of Canadian Idol) and Hindemith’s captivating Mathis der Maler (April 3). The WSO Pops features your favourite principal musicians of the WSO! The sonic spotlight moves among the sections of the orchestra, showcasing some of the stellar players from one of Canada’s best orchestras. This exciting program covers the wide range of styles performed by talented musicians, all delivered with real panache. Celebrate the musicians who help enrich the culture of Manitoba! (April 4,5,6). Masterworks B will perform Beethoven’s Symphony No. 6, a musical picture of the idyllic countryside, next to Debussy’s La Mer, the most imaginative tone poem about the big ocean (April 12). Join in on the fun with Sundays with the Family that includes the classic Peter and the Wolf with Prokofiev’s unforgettable music bonded to this memorable story! (April 27). The Masterworks A series concludes with the transformative work of Mahler’s Symphony No. 5 (May 2&3). A stunning Broadway tribute closes the 60th season of symphonic WSO Pops! Some of the leading Broadway stars join the WSO, singing and dancing their way into your heart. You’ll love the performances of the biggest hits from 42nd Street - songs from Gypsy, Cats, West Side Story, Phantom of the Opera, A Chorus Line, Chicago, Mamma Mia, Wicked and much more! (May 23, 24, 25). All performances take place at the Centennial Concert Hall.
Camerata Nova – The Beatles go medieval and Kashmir by Led Zeppelin “morphs” into a choral fantasia! Camerata Nova pushes the envelope further than ever before with this eclectic, crazy, but always musical collection of songs. Multi-talented guest artists Richard Moody and Lianne Fournier collaborate with Artistic Director Andrew Balfour to offer a variety of songs composed especially for this concert (May 21). Performance takes place at the Park Theatre. Canzona – Come out and hear audience favourite The Messiah by Handel. Canzona has become very comfortable with this great work of art, having performed it numerous times. Yet, each performance is a new experience. MusikBarock Ensemble will join Canzona on stage for this exciting concert (March 16). Performance takes place at the Bethel Mennonite Church. The Winnipeg Philharmonic Choir – Celebrate spring with a program of waltzes, tangos and polkas. Featuring Johannes Brahms’ Liebeslieder Waltzes - expressive love songs written for 4 hands (May 4). Performances take place at Jubilee Place.
The Women’s Musical Club of Winnipeg – This concert commemorates the 25th anniversary of the death of Arthur Rubinstein in 1982. The repertoire includes works that were performed by Rubinstein at Carnegie Hall in 1967 (April 6). Concert takes place at the Winnipeg Art Gallery. The Winnipeg Chamber Music Society – Witness splendid works by Hayden, Piazzolla’s passionate L’histoire du Tango and Robert Schumann’s superb Piano Quintet! (May 4). Concert takes place at The Winnipeg Art Gallery. Groundswell – GroundSwell is delighted to announce the return engagement of the brilliant and distinguished American musicians - violinist Rolf Schulte and pianist James Winn (April 17). Concert takes place at Eckhardt-Gramatté Hall. In Requiem for a Polka, the 14-piece GroundSwell Chamber Ensemble is led by conductor and new music specialist Alain Trudel (May 20). Concert takes place at Westminster United Church. Manitoba Chamber Orchestra - Roy Goodman comes home for a baroque evening with The Winnipeg Singers. Handel’s setting of Psalm 110, Dixit Dominus, is the concert’s highlight (April 1). Finally, Maestro Anu Tali closes the 35th anniversary season with piano legend Marc-André Hamelin. Repertoire includes Schnittke’s Concerto for piano and strings (May 28). Concerts take place at the Westminster United Church.
Virtuosi Concerts – This exciting concert series continues with pianist Ian Parker, who received Canada Council’s Syvla Gelber Award as “Most Talented Canadian Artist” while he was still a student at Juilliard (March 15). Join Dr. Peter Vinograde as he illustrates the characteristics, conundrums and connections within the incomparable Goldberg Variations (March 28). Come back the following day and witness Dr. Peter Vinograde’s innovative program to celebrate Bach’s birthday (March 29). All concerts take place at Eckhardt-Gramatté Hall. Manitoba Chamber Orchestra – Rediscover the magic of the Fandango, the Xacaras and La Bamba as played, sung and danced some 400 years ago with Constantinople, a Montreal-based early-music ensemble like no other (April 12). Concert takes place at Westminster United Church. spring 2008 | STYLE MANITOBA | 29
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West End Cultural Centre – Prepare to be amazed by the skilful musicianship and passionate performance poetry of Vancouver’s The Fugitives (March 19). Formed in an abandoned building in Chicago, August 2003, Tons of Fun University (T.O.F.U.) is one of the premier North American groups to combine spoken word and music (March 22). With a song writing career that spans more than 30 years, Ron Hynes is a six-time East Coast Music Award winner, a Genie Award winner and a past Juno, CCMA and Canadian Folk Music Awards nominee. Sharing the stage is Chuck Brodsky, a songwriter who pokes fun at political corruption, road rage, and mischief he made as a kid (March 27). Juile Doiron, former member of Eric’s Trip, is joined by East Coast Music Award winner, Nova Scotia’s Jill Barber (March 29). Toronto’s Born Ruffians have been described as the next link in the evolutionary chain of contemporary pop music, mixing drums, bass, and electric guitar, an almost unheard of combination, with bits of harmonium, piano and plenty of “hootin’ and hollerin’” to create a sound they call “the best we could come up with!” (March 31). Danny Michel is a musical chameleon who slips into any genre with ease (April 2). An iconoclastic hero of alt-country, Americana, college radio and modern folk, Todd Snider is enjoying a long overdue and suddenly growing popularity fuelled by constant touring (April 6). The Oysterband are folk-based British musicians who are acoustic at heart, sometimes intense, and sometimes rocking. Since 1978 they’ve toured in 35 countries and made 11 studio albums. A must see! (April 15).
OPERA Manitoba Opera – One of the best loved, most frequently performed, recorded, and filmed of all operas, La Traviata recounts in music the tragic love story that has melted hearts for over 150 years. Based on Marie Duplessis, the reallife courtesan whose lover, Alexandre Dumas, wrote the novel and the play on which Verdi based his opera (April 19, 22, 25). Performances take place at Manitoba Centennial Concert Hall.
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Costume Museum of Canada – The Costume Museum of Canada is home to a collection of 35,000 artefacts spanning 400 years. Some of the world’s best fashion resides here by designers such as Chanel, Norman Hartnell, Worth, Schiaparelli, Vionnet, Scassi and Paco Rabanne. The renowned collection also represents the identity of everyday Canadians, urban and rural, public and private, through the garments that they made, purchased and wore. Located at 109 Pacific Avenue Manitoba Children’s Museum – Galleries at the MCM are not your traditional museum galleries. You won’t find any “Do Not Touch” signs here because spaces are designed for hands-on fun! Have a blast in six hands-on galleries. Located at The Forks.
The Manitoba Museum – History comes to life in the Museum’s nine permanent galleries. Watch a magnificent polar bear as he waits under Northern lights for daylight to break; climb aboard the Nonsuch, a famous replica of the 17th century ship responsible for the founding of the Hudson’s Bay Company; or travel back in time to the roaring ‘20s. With many traveling and temporary exhibits, there’s always something new to learn at this museum located downtown at 190 Rupert Avenue. The Planetarium - Visitors to the Planetarium become intrepid astronomical explorers as they embark on a voyage of discovery from yesterday to tomorrow and beyond. You can explore the night sky as seen from anywhere on Earth, or journey far into space to visit the planets, stars and beyond. Located at 190 Rupert Avenue. Oseredok Ukrainian Cultural and Educational Centre – Created to house a museum, archives, library, art gallery, and boutique, Oseredok is the largest Ukrainian cultural institution of its kind. Located at 184 Alexander Avenue East. Fort Whyte Centre – Winnipeg’s awardwinning nature centre showcases the 70-acre, 40-head Bison Prairie exhibit, hiking trails with a prairie dog exhibit, family tree house, bird feeding stations, floating boardwalks, sod house, tipi encampment and waterfowl in their native pond habitats. Located at 1961 McCreary. St. Boniface Museum – Stand within the oldest building in Winnipeg and the largest oak log structure in North America. The museum depicts the lives of the French and Métis people. Originally the Grey Nuns Convent, this museum also boasts the largest collection of Louis Riel artefacts in the country. Located at 494 avenue Taché.
GALLERIES Winnipeg Art Gallery – From 15th century panel paintings to Post-Impressionism, check out Into the Collection: Highlights of Historical Painting (until March 23). More than 400 homemade postcards bring together the most powerful, poignant, and beautifully intimate secrets collected by Frank Warren through his fascinating and compelling community art project, PostSecret (until March 23). In Edward Burtynsky: In the Pursuit of Progress, Burtynsky’s photographs document the destruction of the environment by our “want it all” society (until April 13). Subconscious City showcases an outstanding roster of 27 Winnipeg artists, revealing a complicated picture of where we live and work (until May 11). Located at 300 Memorial Boulevard. Plug In Institute of Contemporary Art – Don’t miss Plug In’s Dream House: Annual Fundraising Exhibition that includes an auction of original art works by local and international artists (until April 5). Next up is Informal Architectures curated by Anthony Kiendl (May 3-June 28). Located at 286 McDermot Avenue.
avril lavigne
SPECIAL EVENTS Festival of Fools - The Forks Market comes alive with clowning, magic and general tomfoolery! The Forks Market will be ‘chock-fool’ of fools, roving clowns, face-painters, games, prizes and too many fools to mention! Admission is free. (March 29 – April 5) Winnipeg International Children’s Festival –Take the wee ones out to this annual favourite, featuring over 30 shows daily of music, dance, puppetry and hands-on activities with local, national and international artists. (June 9-12) Winnipeg’s Pride 2008 – On August 2, 1987, a crowd of 250 people marched in Winnipeg’s first Pride Day celebration. Pride has been celebrated annually since then and has evolved from a one-day event into a 10-day festival filled with pride, confidence, fun, colour, music, laughter and optimism, and it attracts thousands! Come and celebrate freedom in this delightful week of arousing events (May 30 -June 8). Lenny Kravtiz - Lenny’s tour will start in one of his biggest markets in the world – Canada! Expect to hear a mix of all the hits from his big albums Are You Gonna Go My Way?, Mama Said, Let Love Rule and many more (March 17). Concert takes place at the MTS Centre. Avril Lavigne - Following the enormous success of her third studio album and second consecutive #1 debut, Best Damn Thing, Lavigne has announced plans for her 2008 “Best Damn Tour.” Produced by Live Nation and featuring special guests Boys Like Girls, the tour will reach Winnipeg this spring (March 18).
Foo Fighters – Returning with their sixth album in a decade, front man Dave Grohl and company celebrate their return with a cross Canada tour to support the latest work (March 25). Concert takes place at the MTS Centre. Def Leppard - one of rock’s most exciting bands are coming to Winnipeg! (April 16). Concert takes place at the MTS Centre. Alan Jackson and Brooks & Dunn - It will be the ultimate country powerhouse pairing not to be missed (April 19). Concert takes place at the MTS Centre. Anne Murray - Canadian icon Anne Murray’s Coast-to-Coast Canadian tour is set to double back due to overwhelming demand. In Winnipeg, the April 29th show sold out in just hours, and now a second date has been added for May 17th! Concert takes place at the MTS Centre. George Thorogood – George and his band The Destroyers have been entertaining fans for more than 30 years, and they’re not about to stop now (May 23). Concert takes place at the MTS Centre. Tom Jones – Witness one of the most enduring personalities in the music entertainment business (June 10). Concert takes place at the MTS Centre. Charley Pride - In celebration of his 40th year of touring, the incomparable Charley Pride returns to Canada for select concerts (June 11). Concert takes place at the MTS Centre.
Martina McBride – Finally, McBride is making the Canadian tour that fans have been yearning for all these years (March 21). Concert takes place at the MTS Centre.
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presents
Alfie Zappacosta Live in concert at The WAG April 25th at 8 PM Advance Tickets on sale March 15th at Quest Musique (2 locations) 1308 Portage Ave - 233-4151 & 150-166 Meadowood Drive - 231-1677 Major Credit Cards Accepted Doors open at 6:30 PM Concert at 8 PM Muriel Richardson Auditorium, Winnipeg Art Gallery Pre-show & Intermission Cash Bar For artist details, visit www.stylemanitoba.com For contest details: www.groovefm.ca in association with
Come Home
to tHe
Gates
Looking for a great way to start a Sunday morning? Join us for Brunch at the Gates every Sunday from 10:30 AM until 2:00 PM. We offer fresh homemade pastries & breads, made-toorder omelettes, carved meats & House Smoked Salmon. We also feature traditional breakfast items, creative hot entrees, shellfish, seafood & fish. Enjoy the wide assortment of salads, pasta salads, grilled vegetables & relish items. To finish off a delicious brunch, try a selection from our immense dessert display of cheesecakes, slices, dainties, tarts, cookies, tortes, sweets & our signature Chocolate Fountain with fresh fruit. Reservations are recommended.
Phone: 224-2837 6945 Roblin Blvd. Lunch served Monday through Saturday at 11:30 am and dinner every night starting at 5:00 pm.
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www.thegatesonroblin.com
Guitar and Pen A February afternoon and Alfie Zappacosta is in hearty form. The singer, guitarist, songwriter and actor is in the middle of a short cluster of dates to promote his latest record, Bonafide, and with the benefit of years in the bigger leagues, he’s finding independence is the way to go. “When the dates come in they tend to be fast and furious,” he says from Thunder Bay, the day after a good show. “I have some agents that book for me, but I tend to a lot myself. It’s been kind of interesting.” At 54 he’s mobile. Zappacosta’s resume as a professional musician stretches 30 years, taking in the band, Surrender, a solo career and extensive label credits as a professional songwriter, along with two JUNO awards (both of them for Most Promising Male Vocalist). Along the way he’s developed a handsome stage career, including starring roles in Jesus Christ Superstar and Evita. Such achievements haven’t set him in the forefront of Canadian music, but through hard work, craft and canniness he’s connected with the type of listener that values more. Given the limitations of modern radio, that’s no small achievement. Like fellow Canadian Marc Jordan, Zappacosta crafts pop music for adults. The singing is warm and full, there’s a touch of jazz sophistication with a hint of Wes Montgomery in the guitar solos, and for all the attention to pop hooks he isn’t exactly teenbeat. There isn’t much room for that on the airwaves currently – “There just isn’t a place to play it,” he says – and some of his greatest support in Canada comes from smooth-jazz stations.
By Randal McIlroy
When he hears that one website service has described him as a well-kept secret – albeit in favourable terms – he takes no offence. “There’s something to be said how about much you really need,” he muses. “I could not imagine the life of a Sting or a Madonna or a Britney Spears and what they have to do – the huge weight they have to carry on their shoulders. In a relative way I’ve seen a little of that. It’s just scary, so you wonder exactly how much reaction you need to get by. “I’ve been very successful in what I’ve done – most successfully because my kids have grown up and they love me, and they’ve gone through school and they’re great. We have great conversations. It all depends what you mean by success. I get a lot of, ‘Are you the guy that did that song?’ I’ll be walking in the supermarket with my son and someone will come up to me and say, ‘I love what you do,’ and my son will look at me and say, ‘Who’s that, dad?’ “I don’t know, son.” Born in Italy and raised in Toronto, Zappacosta says he began with no grand plan for a career in music. “I thought it was going to be a lark. I’d maybe do it for a couple of weeks and get the hell out and be a barber. My father was a hairstylist, and that’s what I thought I’d do.” There were hits, including “Passion” and “We Should be Lovers,” but also compromise. He was a guitar player who was pressured to become a singer. “I found a way to hide behind a microphone stand for five years.” It was an uncomfortable arrangement until he took vocal lessons from David Dunbar and found his natural range. “You’re born with a certain tone, and it’s up to you to nurture it.” By the same axis he knows he’d have a warmer welcome at mainstream radio if he chose to write the “damned stupid songs” required. As it happens, though, he’s done well as a songwriter for others; he compares his work as a hired tunesmith for EMI to that of a tailor. He sang one of them, “Overload,” for the Dirty Dancing soundtrack. With the stage version opening soon in Toronto Zappacosta has been reviewing some of the hundreds of songs he wrote for the market. “You write it, and if you stay true to yourself and you like it, there you go,” he says. Alfie Zappacosta will be performing at the WAG on April 25th. For ticket information, call 233-4151 or 231-1677.
spring 2008 | STYLE MANITOBA | 33
Delectable Dining Photography: John Johnston
Home Theatre & Structured Wiring Specialist Call for a FREE Consultation T: 204-221-3820 E: sean@kandselectronics.com www.kandselectronics.com
Small Bistro Big on Taste Café Carlos has been delighting diners for over 15 years with its New York-style bistro atmosphere, friendly neighbourhood service and innovative pan-ethnic menu. We manage to nab a table on a humming Friday night to try its trend-setting taste for ourselves. From the bar, citrus is ubiquitous. Hidden Dragon martini is a bright green syrupy blend of Absolute, Midori melon, sour apple, sweet lemonade and lime cordial. And dry lemon splashed Noilly Prat white vermouth is refreshingly clean tasting served on the rocks. Our small plates - Crispy Prawns and Portobello and Beef - are strikingly tabled. Tumbling over wedges of warm and spice-dusted naan bread, the golden panko encrusted prawns are plump and tasty to the tail, especially when dipped in sweet and sour ginger sauce and lathered in mango chutney. Our beef bite, featuring a moist Portobello mushroom buried beneath garlic butter dripping tenderloin pieces and smothered in creamy black pepper sabayon sauce, is equally succulent and savoury. Soup and salad swoop in as a prelude to our entrées. The soup - a cream of tomato and chipotle - is smooth, spicy, and sops sumptuously with buttered bread. Warm goat cheese salad, featuring sautéed goat cheese and crunchy pine nuts resting on a fresh toss of tomato, cucumber, assorted lettuce and julienne vegetables is deliciously drenched in balsamic vinaigrette. The signature Fett Chile and Fusilli Sea provide for creamy indulgence and refined flavour. Fett Chile sees al dente fettuccini tossed with a hearty mix of chicken, chorizo and cashew mingling with smoky roasted peppers and luxuriating in chili cream sauce. A peppery cherry Italian Merlot, the Villa Chiopris, perfectly polishes these robust mouthfuls. Meanwhile, Fusilli Sea sees tender corkscrew pasta jumbled with juicy prawns and scallops in a simple tomato sauce. Gallo Sonoma, a fruit-driven Zinfandel flavoured with jammy raspberry and spice, melds naturally with the bright tomato and fresh seafood. We opt for the house-made Chevre Cheesecake for the finish. Layered upon a toffee-like amaretto cookie crust, blended with almond and dotted with raspberry coulis, this velvety cake’s sharp cheese tang is uniquely complemented with plump ripe roasted grapes.
Café Carlos 243 Lilac Street
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The Ultimate Seafood Experience Subterranean Corydon sets the sails for a romantic plunge into Portuguesestyle feasting at Orlando’s Seafood Grill. Flanked by its bustling open kitchen, this elegant dining cavern sparkles with a panoramic-style mirror, white linen, drapery and glass. Pre-dinner drinks are swiftly tabled. A chilled vodka martini sips clean and refreshing with a quartet of pimentostuffed green olives. And the luscious ruby-red Crantini swirling with raspberry splash and lemon twist is just as smart a start. Soaking crusty toasted bread in classic olive oil and balsamic dip, we consider Orlando’s offerings of seafood, fresh fish, chicken and beef. Word is the broiled veal chop cannot be rivalled in the city for its succulence, and nor can Orlando’s grilled prawns, dripping garlic and lemon. But more on Orlando’s big catch later … For appetizers, the waters are tested with Steamed Mussels and the signature Shrimp Orlando. Bathed in a mild autumn-hued white wine cream sauce accented with onion, the plump and juicy pan-fried shrimp pop with fresh ocean flavour. The mussels, simply tossed in a rich and zesty tomato sauce, present tender and pillowy meat morsels bursting with lip-smacking tang.
Thoughtful Touch
Orlando’s secret is genuine ingredients and simple homespun preparation. It’s easy to taste why this bistro has been dubbed “the ultimate” seafood experience! The proof is in the pickerel: the grilled pickerel with BBQ shrimp, that is. The evening’s special sees a delicately breaded moist pickerel fillet accompanied by a wheel of fresh roasted vegetables and a toss of luscious grill-marked shrimp. Alive with texture, bright colour and pure aromas, the kitchen delivers satisfyingly uncomplicated supping with this plate. But the grilled chicken breast topped with a Dijon-blended crab adds flair to the evening’s palate. Similarly accompanied, the tender chicken and its creamy layer of smooth crab culls boldly bright and smoky ocean tastes.
Clothing & Giftware for each and every occasion
The recommended wine - a floral Santa Carolina Antares Sauvignon Blanc - is an irresistible sip with its full-bodied aperitif-like tropical sweetness and crisp acidity. A fitting feast finale is the dreamy Molotov. Floating like a cloud in a light ‘n lemony custard pool and scattered with crunchy roasted almonds flecks, this fluffy meringue moves by the mouthful and will have you dipping your fingers in lingering sauce for more.
Orlando’s Seafood Grill 709 Corydon Avenue Grant Park Mall
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™
Fair Trade fashion
from around the world
Impressively Eclectic It’s a spice whose grassy aroma, bitter taste, and distinctly yellow colouring make it a prized ingredient, and Saffron’s Restaurant holds to its namesake by offering Corydon Avenue’s trendiest patio, coolest drinks, and an impressively eclectic menu. Cocktails range from the classic martini to a jumbo pitcher-sized daiquiri. We err on the side of the quenching; a spicy Caesar and garnet-hued sweet Sangria, brightened with lemon and lime squeezes, hit the spot.
134 Plaza Drive (204) 261-0566 963 Henderson Hwy (204) 661-5545
Fair Trade since 1946 www.TenThousandVillages.ca
Appetizers promise comforts like chicken tenders and dry ribs, but there are some surprises. Prosciutto Antipasto is a simple but sophisticated spread of dark kalamata olives nestled with thinly sliced pink Prosciutto arranged with spears of sharp parmesan and pickled eggplant. Tempted to sample that famous spice for ourselves, we go for the Creamy Saffron Mussels. These plump PEI mussels are delicately sautéed with onions and garlic and soaked in a luminous creamy saffron sauce. “Good to the last drop,” chuckles my dining companion whilst we sop up the extra sauce with our bread. The dinner menu showcases an array of adventurous entrées, pasta, stir-fry, and gourmet pizza selections. But it’s land and sea harvest that harkens with Bison Ribs and Blackened Salmon with Blue Cheese. The caveman-sized serving of mesquite chipotle BBQ saucesmothered ribs demands hands-on dining and we hungrily concede. But Saffron’s displays refinement with its 8-oz salmon steak crusted in Cajun blackening spices, glazed with garlic butter, and topped with Danish blue cheese. Smooth red pepper bisque, crisp garden salad, and roasted vegetables satisfyingly fill out the plates. Fleshy textures and pungent tastes are aptly complemented with a bottle of Merlot – a Chilean 2005 Conchay Toro “Casillero del Diablo,” its claim to fame is its deep purple hue and subtle touches of cocoa and ripe fruit. Tummies taut, one gander at Saffron’s case of rich cheesecakes, home-baked ganache and tortes convinces us that dessert deserves a taste. Super dense and dark Belgian Chocolate Fudge is a rich and silky sweet that is indeed best chased with an expertly pulled espresso and frothy cinnamon-dusted cappuccino.
Saffron’s Restaurant 681 Corydon Ave
HAIR • NAILS • WIGS & ACCESSORIES AMMONIA FREE SALON 3-166 Osborne Street 284-8468
spring 2008 | STYLE MANITOBA | 37
Noshing Out ...
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shoe the ra py
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e som
Provence Bistro 620 Niakwa Road
shoes • clothing • unique gifts 173 Lilac Street
Live the Cafe Carlo Fantasy
284-4128
achieve brilliance
Try our signature four-course menu for $25.95
Provence Bistro’s extensive and elegant brunch menu – known to showcase such delicately prepared delights as juicy maple glazed ham with cloves, creamy quiche Lorraine, poached salmon, seafood mirror platter and vegetarian sushi rolls – is one of the not-to-be-missed culinary adventures of the spring, especially on Mother’s Day. And if you find the dessert table after feasting, you might finish your gastronomic tour with a rich individual cheesecake or even chocolate dipped strawberries.
Tavern in the Park
Assiniboine Park Pavilion, 55 Pavilion Crescent
Indulge in Tavern in the Park’s popular Sunday buffet brunch whilst you marvel at the natural beauty of Assiniboine Park from the gorgeous pavilion glass atrium. The menu’s contemporary continental selections range from eggs benedict to delicate French pastries to a variety of hot dishes and desserts. Fresh to-order omelettes made by the chef will not fail to delight. And with house smoked salmon and blinis with mushroom ragout also available, this extensive brunch is equal parts beauty and bounty.
The Current Restaurant & Lounge 75 Forks Market Road
poppy wall art $39.99 /set 4
lunch and dinner cocktails and small plates open seven days a week
other sticker art designs available
ATTEND A FENG SHUI SESSION ONLY $25
The Forks Market provides the perfect backdrop to this colourful prairie eatery’s sumptuous brunch. Celebrate spring by reserving a seat for an outstanding line-up of fresh bakery delights, gourmet chef prepared omelettes and crêpes, hearty carvery, seafood features, salads, and imported cheeses. In addition to offering traditional hot breakfast items, brunchers will also be tempted by astounding desserts like Callebaut, Chocolate Fondue Fontaine, and a plethora of cakes and tortes.
Saucers Café 570 Academy Road
243 LILAC ST 477-5544 www.cafecarlo.com
433 River Ave • 477-4999
Only 140 steps east of Osborne.
Jus’ Eat it! Organic Market, 603 Wall St
204-772-2136 Open: Tues - Fri 10-7 Sat 10-4
38 | STYLE MANITOBA | spring 2008
Saucers breaks out the crêpes for spring brunching as a special addition to its colourful and eclectic menu. Wraps, sandwiches, and melts offer zesty lunching, while casual meal bites include pizza, pasta, and select seafood. A peanut sauce splashed Thai Chicken Salad also proves a perfect afternoon munch. For dinner, big plates like BBQ Bison Ribs served with rosemary potatoes and fresh vegetables satisfy. Those tempted by a decadent sweet with an espresso hit or a soothing specialty tea shan’t be disappointed.
Sydney’s at the Forks
2nd Floor of The Forks Market
The newest addition to the Mother’s Day Brunch scene is this elegant eatery at The Forks. Helmed by inventive Chef Scott Bagshaw and Patisserie Kristel Blawat, Sydney’s ever-changing menu is known to feature sumptuous dinner and dessert plates. Angus beef noisette topped with a candied shallot salsa and Cabernet-Franc reduction and desserts like Callebaut chocolate spiced red wine cake are typical diner fare, and an array of inventive sandwiches and pastas are available for lunch. Brunch promises to bring out only the best in Sydney’s menu.
Best Brunches The Fort Garry Hotel 222 Broadway
RESTAURANT & BAR
“Best Brunch in Town” raves the Globe and Mail of this historic hotel’s spectacular and award-winning Sunday brunch. Boasting a chocolate fountain centerpiece to an astounding variety of appetizingly presented food, this chic brunch offers salads, made to order omelettes, freshly baked pastry and desserts, roast leg of lamb, smoked salmon and ham. Other delights include iced shrimp, eggs benedict, seafood Newburg, a handsome cheese spread, grilled sweet peppers, and sautéed white fish.
The Velvet Glove
The Fairmont Hotel, 2 Lombard Place
This prestigious Four Diamond CAA/AAA-rated restaurant pulls out all the stops for its special Mother’s Day buffet brunch. Replete with select Manitoba-sourced hot and cold lunch and breakfast items, this elaborate culinary affair is a must. And for dinner, dramatic tableside preparations, extensive wine selection, and sumptuous menu featuring indulgent starters like Quebec foie gras with Thai chili-vanilla poached pear and maple-dusted fry bread make for an unforgettable taste experience.
Rembrandt’s Bistro
One Wellink Drive at Highway 44, Lockport
A scenic 15-minute drive from Winnipeg will find you at this hub of European refinement. While all lunch and dinner plates are served with exceptional attention to detail, Rembrandt’s Sunday brunch should not be overlooked. The 1st course, a sweet Red River Cereal Crème Brule, perfectly prepares the palate for 2nd courses like Oma’s Omelette packed with back bacon, wild mushroom, and aged white cheddar. Or for the sweet tooth, chocolate chip spiked Belgian waffles with flame-kissed fruit will certainly satisfy. But brace yourself for an indulgent 3rd course of the Chef ’s Choice Dessert.
MEDITERRANEAN CUISINE LIVE ENTERTAINMENT THURS & SAT
681 Corydon Avenue 284-2602
Royal Crown Revolving Restaurant and Lounge 83 Garry Street
Built on top of Fort Garry Place with a mind to merging Old World architecture with modern technology, The Royal Crown has become a top Manitoba attraction and a favourite dining spot. Sunday buffet brunch includes breakfast must-haves like made to order omelettes, eggs benedict, fluffy pancakes, bacon, sausage, and select pastries. This buffet also invites diners to dish up extras like carved beef and ham, pasta, salads, fresh fruit, chow mein, soup, seafood, and a flourish of decadent desserts.
Brio Restaurant 300 Memorial
The art of dining could not be more at home than on the Penthouse Level of The Winnipeg Art Gallery. Gazing out the picturesque glass walls or relaxing in the rooftop garden, indulge in Brio’s refined brunch menu. Four appetizing plates await your selection: Classic country omelette, Hollandaise and smoked salmon topped Mediterranean eggs, French toast filled with apple cinnamon cream cheese, and chipotle salsa-smothered Huevos Rancheros. Wash it all down with a bubbly mimosa.
spring 2008 | STYLE MANITOBA | 39
Noshing Out The Gates on Roblin 6945 Roblin Boulevard
Sunday brunch goes ranch style at this once luxury cabin turned stately restaurant. Freshly baked pastry, made to order omelettes, carved meats, house smoked salmon, and a handsome catch of seafood are the mainstays of this extravagant feast. Also included are traditional and imaginative breakfast dishes, a plethora of salads, and a grand dessert display of cheesecake, slices, dainties, tarts, cookies and tortes. And The Gates’ signature chocolate fountain with fresh fruit will be sure to remind you that Sunday is indeed a reason to celebrate.
Fresh Café
775 Corydon Avenue
Winnipeg’s latest in a string of nationally renowned new eateries makes a beautiful brunch with locally sourced meats and produce, organic ingredients, and painstaking attention to detail. And offering all-day breakfast all week, you don’t have to wait until Sunday to brunch hearty and healthy! Sip freshly squeezed juice straight from the juice bar and then dive into the café’s specialties like banana bread French toast and in-house cured eggs benedict served on homemade scones. Or for something on the lighter side, try a bowl of house-made hemp seed muesli or a plate of tofu scramble with vegan sour cream.
Stella’s Café & Bakery
166 Osborne Street & 1895 Grant Avenue
It’s claim to fame an emphasis upon simple healthy ingredients, Stella’s casual back-to-basics breakfast and lunch menus make for some impressive brunching. Generously plated traditional eggs, hot cereal, killer omelettes, colourful sandwiches, and creamy quiches are the cornerstones of this select menu, with hearty housemade breads, delicate pastries, and irresistible squares and cookies providing a sweet finish. And vegetarians rejoice - the café’s favourites also come in meatless versions.
Confusion Corner Bar & Grill 500 Corydon Avenue
Situated at Confusion Corner is Winnipeg’s independent answer to the Earl’s style dining experience. Confusion Corner’s special brunch menu, offered on both Saturday and Sunday, lets you dine above it all on the second-floor patio. Tantalizing panini, unique pizzas, crisped Monte Cristo, spicy burrito, classic eggs benedict, and a sparkling citrusy mimosa royal are the mainstays of this internationally flavoured line-up.
Dalton’s
Greenwood Inn, 1715 Wellington Ave
Located in the Greenwood Inn, this casual restaurant boasts an impressive Sunday brunch. Comfort foods are Dalton’s forte; expect a wide variety of traditional but tasty buffet items. While basking in the relaxed and luminescent dining room, enjoy eggs benedict, a meat carving station sporting prime roast beef, and various delicious hot and cold selections. Give your brunch bounty an encore with a trip to Dalton’s immense dessert table.
The Terrace Dining Room
Assiniboia Downs, 3975 Portage Avenue
Reservations are your best bet at this equestrian-style brunch locale. Overlooking the grand racetrack at Assiniboia Downs, treat yourself to a wide selection of fresh soup, salads and platters. Designer omelettes welcome succulent sides like crisp bacon, maple kissed sausage, and pan-fried potatoes O’Brian. And The Belgium Waffle Bar’s ripe seasonal fruit and freshly whipped cream will leave you sweetly satisfied. Mother’s Day sees some hearty and decadent additions to this already fabulous menu.
40 | STYLE MANITOBA | spring 2008
By Leigh Patterson Photography: John Johnston
Bringing Farm
Fresh Thinking to the Table
New hatchery & head office benefits producer, consumer & environment
Granny’s Poultry has emerged from its shell, again. One of Manitoba’s 50 Fastest Growing Companies for nine years, the company has opened the most energy efficient, technologically advanced hatchery in the world. The new 35,000-square-foot hatchery and accompanying head office located in Transcona marks another milestone for Granny’s, with producers, consumers and the environment all standing to benefit from the move. According to Chief Operating Officer, Wayne Morrison, the company decided to move to a larger, state-of-the-art building to keep up to the rapid growth in operations in recent years. “We had been at our previous facility for 20 years and were landlocked there, with no room to expand. We’re now sited on seven and a half acres of land, which will meet our needs for the foreseeable future,” Morrison says. Particularly noteworthy about Granny’s new location is its use of a heat recovery system that allows the company to capture and recover the natural heat generated in the hatchery by the development of the chicks in the eggs. This heat is then used for a variety of purposes throughout the building. A geothermal component supplements this heat source and provides the building’s cooling requirements. Finally, an Energy Management System manages these components. “We are the only hatchery in the world using all three of these systems together,” Morrison remarks, adding that the company expects to enjoy over $100,000 per year in energy savings. The new facility also boasts several other environmentally sustainable elements, including high efficiency fluorescent lighting, a single loop system in the hatchery that reuses water, low flush toilets and banks of windows to provide extensive natural light throughout the office.
“Added together, we are making a smaller environmental footprint,” Morrison notes. Significant advancements in biosecurity also come to play in the new building, where a pristine environment ensures the best possible start for healthy chicks and ultimately, healthy flocks for producers to raise. The highest possible standards are also maintained at Granny’s Blumenort, Manitoba processing facility, which is also undergoing a series of expansions and improvements. “Ultimately, what this new technology means is enhanced quality of our product at all stages: a better quality chick, which in turn benefits
the producer who grows that chicken and ultimately the consumer, who enjoys a better end product at the dinner table,” Morrison says. With more consumers choosing chicken and turkey over other sources of protein meat, Granny Poultry’s expansion makes good business sense. The largest poultry processor in Manitoba, and the largest Manitoban-owned and controlled food processor, Granny’s Poultry is owned and controlled by a cooperative of chicken, turkey and hatching egg producers. Granny’s Poultry employs 400 people and has been recognized as one of Manitoba’s Top 100 Employers in 23 of the last 24 years.
spring 2008 | STYLE MANITOBA | 41
Luxury Suites Now Available BUSINESS SUITES BOUTIQUE STYLE Daily and extended stay accommodations 300 studio, one and two bedroom suites Leather furniture, granite countertops, 32â&#x20AC;? flat screen HDTV Well appointed kitchens with new appliances
www.placelouisriel.com
42 | STYLE MANITOBA | springat 2008 190 Smith Street St.
Mary Avenue, Winnipeg, MB email: info@placelouisriel.com PH: 947.6961 TF: 1.800.665.0569
Complete and Chic: By Ian Mozdzen
Place Louis Riel Suite Hotel Reinvents Downtown Accommodation “Here come the chairs,” proudly announces Krista Mask, Place Louis Riel Suite Hotel’s Manager of Marketing and Sales. An onslaught of lavish furnishings and cutting-edge appliances have just been delivered and are making their way up to yet another revamped floor. “More and more luxury,” Krista affirms as the elevator whisks us up the 23-storey hotel for a tour of its new boutiquestyled digs. Adding momentum to downtown rejuvenation, this high-rise apartment turned suite hotel is ensconced in a startling $15 million dollar upgrade thanks to Westcorp Properties Inc, the hotel’s innovative new ownership. “As one of Winnipeg’s largest hotels, we are excited to push Place Louis Riel Suite Hotel past the competition and into a new level of luxury and comfort,” says Westcorp Inc’s Director of Hotels, Marina R. Kulba. The first phase, including an extensive parkade restoration and dramatic six-floor renovation, is nearing completion. So begins the reinvention of the accommodation experience in Winnipeg …
The moment the elevator doors slide open, the transformation is clearly stated. The hallway’s sleek design, featuring dark wood paneling, energy-efficient contemporary lighting, and inviting colour palette evoke a warm and modern sensibility. This sensibility naturally extends into the suites. Helmed by Kasian Architecture Interior Design and Planning, renowned for its inspired approach to space that synthesizes culture, functionality, and personality, each spacious apartment-sized
suite, ranging from the 450 square-foot open concept studio suite to the whopping 1,300 square-foot adjoining suites, boasts complete and chic kitchen and living facilities that rival the comforts of home. The redesigned suites are decked out in a plethora of luxuries and encourage both nightly and extended stay visitors to kick it back with comfort and style: black granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, pillow-top mattresses with crisp linens and plush duvets, 32-inch HDTVs, aromatherapy bath products, deep soaker bathtubs, tan carpeting, handsome draperies, Californiastyle closets and sophisticated leather furniture. “Our guests have always deserved the best and now we will be able to live up to that commitment,” states Marina. Add to all these refined features Place Louis Riel’s private collection of Manitoba and Northwest Ontario Aboriginal and naturalist
artwork attractively reframed and displayed in every suite, plus a stunning view of downtown, St. Boniface, the Legislature, and surrounding areas, and a reputation for friendly professional service, and you’ve got a hotel experience that redefines comfort for business and pleasure travelers alike. “The renovations will accentuate Place Louis Riel Suite Hotel’s already impressive selling features,” Krista promises. Looking to the future, the second and third phases will, in addition to ongoing guest floor renovations, add a touch of luxury to the lobby and public areas, fitness room, offices, meeting rooms, and commercial space. Hotel officials anticipate completion for the renovations in 2010. Place Louis Riel is set to soon put the city’s finest foot forward. Our tour of the hotel’s new luxuries at close, Krista can indeed confirm, “People will see Place Louis Riel as a destination and a fabulous place to do business with style.”
spring 2008 | STYLE MANITOBA | 43
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Prairie Stained Glass
and School of Craft’s roots run deep. Planted firmly in the heart of Winnipeg’s West End neighbourhood, the family owned and operated studio has served the local arts and crafts community for three decades. The business has thrived on change and breaking new ground while holding firm to its customer-centered values. “We see ourselves as a one-stop shop,” says Matthew McMillan, who manages the store along with his mother, Lucinda Doran. Since 1978, when Matthew’s father Brian McMillan established Prairie Stained Glass, the store has evolved to include an extensive selection of glass art classes, custom commissions, repair and restoration work. To accommodate its diverse offerings, Prairie Stained Glass recently conducted a series of exterior and interior renovations at its current space located at the corner of Sargent Avenue and Sherbrook Street. The expanded 9,000 square foot space offers an extensive inventory of materials for glass art hobbyists. The store is one of the largest retail suppliers of stained glass, fused glass and Art Clay Silver products in Canada. This includes 400 types of glass, as well as working tools such as glass cutters, soldering irons, kilns and more. Prairie Stained Glass is the exclusive Manitoba distributor of Dakota pottery clay and carries a full line of Spectrum glazes. Prairie Stained Glass also publishes its own line of best selling stained glass pattern books; many titles are industry standards. With such a wide selection of glass, tools and books, glass artists and hobbyists can usually find what they are looking for. Of course, advice and expertise is available in abundance from the store’s friendly, knowledgeable staff. Prairie Stained Glass was the first stained glass store in Winnipeg to offer classes. Matthew acknowledges that over the past 30 years, stained glass and other glass art techniques have become “less of a vocation and more of a hobby. Because glass art is more user-friendly now, the results are more consistent,” he adds. This move into the mainstream has led more people to take up glass art. To accommodate this interest, Prairie Stained Glass offers a variety of glass classes throughout the year in its spacious, well-lit and well-equipped classroom areas. Classes are taught by staff as well as renowned local and international artists. “We look at our industry and bring in top people for a different perspective,” Matthew says. The store keeps its workshops fresh by including some of the latest art glass techniques in its course offerings. Glass fusing - a process of creating a glass design by fusing glass pieces together in a kiln – is one of the hottest trends, as is Art Clay Silver jewellery. More traditional craft workshops are available, including woodcarving, bead making, garden art, mosaics, copper embossing, decorative soldering, glass casting and stained glass. No experience or artistic background is necessary for most classes, which are taught in a fun, friendly and relaxed atmosphere. “It’s an all encompassing, therapeutic hobby,” Matthew
Art of thePrairie
Local glass studio celebrates 30 creative years By Leigh Patterson
notes. In the end, students end up with beautiful, one-of-a-kind pieces. The store’s sun-drenched, south facing windows showcase a wide range of high quality art glass pieces for sale, ranging from more traditional, representational pieces to contemporary designs. Prairie Stained Glass offers a full custom design service, creating dramatic decorative installations for residential, commercial and religious settings. The store’s in-house glass artisans also work with interior designers and architects on specific projects. To celebrate its anniversary, the store is offering ongoing specials and events throughout the year, including a glass art show May 26 to June 7, 2008 featuring works by their students. It’s just another way to thank the community and the customers that have supported Prairie Stained Glass’ creative ventures since its earliest days. spring 2008 | STYLE MANITOBA | 45
On the
by Quentin Mills-Fenn
Bookshelf Twenty Miles by Cara Hedley (Coach House Books) University level women’s hockey + literature = Cara Hedley’s hockey novel Twenty Miles. Isabel’s been playing hockey since she was wee, following in the ice tracks of her father, a hockey legend who died before she was born. When she joins the fictional Winnipeg University Scarlets, Iz encounters a free spirited gang of rowdy individuals. Hedley captures the camaraderie of the team, their sometimes-raucous sense of humour, and asks the forbidden question: what happens if you’re Canadian but not sure if you really like our national pastime? Iz has to confront her hockey heresy in this completely enjoyable story. The Forger by Cioma Schönhaus (Granta Books) A German-born graphic design student, 20-year old Cioma Schönhaus was left alone when his entire family was deported to concentration camps in 1942. Schönhaus remains in Berlin, joining with a group of fearless individuals dedicated to saving Jewish Berliners from slaughter by developing his talents as a forger, providing fake identity papers. Determined he must survive in memory of his parents, he stays ahead of the Gestapo, with equal measures of resourcefulness, sangfroid, absent-mindedness (he seems to lose his own carefullycrafted ID cards with alarming frequency) even finding time to buy a sailboat for Sunday afternoons on Lake Havel. Then, when living underground becomes too dangerous, he cycles his way to Switzerland. A remarkable true story of danger, survival and everyday bravery.
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Faveri’s 625 Wall Street 957-4940
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Norene Gilletz is worried about you. She wants you to eat healthy food and also wants you to enjoy yourself. So the former Winnipegger put together this book with over 600 recipes that are good for your heart and are diabetes, carb and glycemic-index friendly. She’s included vegetarian and dairy-free options just in case. The recipes will even work in a kosher kitchen. You know you’ll be in good hands. Check out the Quinoa, Black Bean and Corn Salad or the Pomegranate Chicken. And for afters, try the Cranberry Oatmeal Flax Cookies. Trust me, they’re “tsegait zich in moyl.”
S T Y L I N G
T H E
STEREO By Randal McIlroy
David Gilmour Remember that Night - DVD (Sony) Although it topped the British charts in quick time, David Gilmour’s 2006 album, On an Island, was in many ways a world apart from his spectacular business with Pink Floyd. At 60, the singer/guitarist was reflective, intimate and at peace. That album is played in full as the anchor to Remember that Night, a document of his [year] tour, and that modest luxury persists, down to Gilmour’s brief turns on alto saxophone and the fretted Turkish cumbus. The Pink Floyd songs you’d hope to hear are played with a verve that takes them closer to that band’s 1994 Pulse epic than 2002’s gentler David Gilmour in Concert DVD. What a surprise, though, to hear “Echoes” summoned in all its swirling, funky glory, with Gilmour and keyboardist Rick Wright trading feeling, fiery solos like it’s 1971 again, only better.
Lenny Kravitz It is Time for a Love Revolution (Virgin/EMI) His fealty to the guitar rock of decades well past isn’t everyone’s joint, but there’s no arguing with Lenny Kravitz’s passion. Big guitars dominate over no-fuss rhythms – as always, Kravitz plays the lion’s share of the instruments – but there’s also funk and friskiness in “Will You Marry Me,” a big mellotron ballad in “I Love the Rain” and piano introspection in “A Long and Sad Goodbye.” At a time when modern pop is referential if not reverential to the past, Kravitz sells it by meaning it.
Electric Light Orchestra Out of the Blue – Live at Wembley (Eagle Vision DVD) Extrapolating from the promise of “I Am the Walrus” and “Strawberry Fields Forever,” Roy Wood created Electric Light Orchestra to use orchestral instrumentation for enhanced rock. After a difficult debut album, Jeff Lynne took over control, simplified the mix and had the hits. Out of the Blue – Live at Wembley captures ELO in 1978 at its dizzy height, spaceship stage and all, and though the visual transfer is rough by modern digital standards, the remastered sound is punchy. The songs are a delight, and while a tolerance for helium vocals and earnestly sawing strings is helpful, there’s little chance of resisting the likes of “Turn to Stone” and “Livin’ Thing.” The messy fun of “Roll Over Beethoven” – Lynne’s breakthrough – ends proceedings with a smile. Handsome slipcase packaging and a reproduction of the tour program compensate for the lack of extra features on the disc.
advantage conditioning ltd. Personal Training Athletic Therapy Boot Camp (indoor/outdoor) Let’s make a plan that works for you www.advantageconditioning.com 783-4567
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spring 2008 | STYLE MANITOBA | 47
Customized Approach To Health & Fitness By Aileen Goos
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If you’re looking to lose weight or drop your cholesterol – I hate to break it to
you, but this isn’t an article about a new miracle pill or a get-healthy-quick scheme. “Nutrition and exercise win every time,” says Martin Shumka, founder of Advantage Conditioning. The majority of his company’s clients are looking for a little help in that department. “They usually come straight from the doctor to us. It’s amazing how quickly you can drop weight or lower your cholesterol if you’re willing to put in some effort.” The trainers at Advantage Conditioning, all of whom have an industry-related degree, conduct a health assessment with all their new clients, and then customize a program designed to address each client’s specific needs. “Everyone’s built differently. There are different body types, everyone responds differently to exercise,” says Shumka, who considers himself part personal trainer / part counsellor, because of the psychological component that goes along with motivating people to reach their short-term and long-term health goals. “We try to give the best advice for you and point you in the right direction.” If you’re looking for a personal trainer, Shumka, who’s been training for over 11 years, has a few pointers: Check credentials. Pick a personal trainer who has a degree, not just certification. There’s currently no governing body for personal trainers. Almost anyone can receive certification, but that doesn’t necessarily mean the trainer understands how the body responds to exercises. Find a location that’s convenient for you. Pick a personal trainer you get along with. “If you don’t get along with your trainer, you’re not going to keep going back,” notes Shumka. “You need to find someone you can communicate with. If you’re not achieving the goals you set, you need to be able to tell your trainer.” In addition to personal training services, Advantage Conditioning also offers athletic therapy. But don’t let the name fool you – one doesn’t have to be an athlete to benefit from these services. If you’ve hurt your back shovelling the driveway, for example, there is help. An Athletic Therapist discusses health issues with clients, assesses the situation and educates them before a one-hour treatment, consisting of hot or cold therapy, electrical muscle stimulation, massage therapy, stretching techniques, ultrasound and exercise prescription. “It’s been extremely effective,” says Shumka. “We find our clients getting better quicker because we educate them about their condition and they can then take better care of themselves at home.”
SLOW the FLO:
Excerpts from an interview with Dr. Darek Dawda, psychologist and founder of DAVDA Psychology By Mathilda Waters MW: And psychologists can help people lower their stress levels? Dr. DD: Absolutely. There are many ways in which a psychologist can help you cope with stress better. In my practice, I draw on different techniques – such as mindfulness, relaxation, focusing, hypnosis, and so on - to help people SLOW the FLO. It usually takes a little bit of help and practice, and then people can start applying those techniques on their own. It’s very satisfying to see people find solutions where they least expect it, in a state of intrinsic well-being that already exists within them. In my coaching and psychotherapy experience, much improvement happens when people tap into their nature-given ability to SLOW the FLO. MW: You do ‘psychotherapy’ and ‘coaching’ what is the difference?
I have been quite stressed out lately, so arranged to meet for an interview with Dr. Darek Dawda, a psychotherapist and life coach – an expert on how to deal with stress. I met with Dr. Dawda in his very comfortable office on the corner of Stafford and Dorchester, where we had a good chat over a cup of warm rooibos tea. Dr. Dawda wasted no time getting to the point. Dr. DD: We live in a chronically anxious culture, during chronically anxious times, and many of us pay a price for this. Combine the external pressures and expectations people are exposed to in this 21st century of ours with poor skills to cope with such pressures and you have a problem. MW: What can people do about stress? Dr. DD: There are the objective stressors that impact us from outside, and there is the way we cope with stressors – dealing with both is very important. Part of the solution is to step back and make some decisions about the sort of life you want. Really think about it. You can’t get everything, be everything, or be everywhere. So decide on those things that really matter to you, and see if you can restructure things around you so that your environment better serves your needs. Usually, there are things everyone can do to improve their situations, like simplifying their lives, or maximizing the activities that are meaningful and intrinsically satisfying. MW: And if one can’t or is not willing to change their situation?
Dr. DD: Then one has to optimize one’s coping with stress. Otherwise, you will find yourself in a state of constant overdrive. When stressed for a long time, your body might lose its capacity to come back down to idle, and without proper rest and rejuvenation, the organism becomes much more vulnerable to depression and physical illness. MW: I notice that you are holding your forehead as you talk about ‘CONSTANT STATE OF OVER-DRIVE.’ Dr. DD: Yes. The majority of people who are chronically stressed have too much activity in their frontal lobes. I call this syndrome Frontal Lobes Over-activation or FLO for short. Essentially, many of us worry too much, think too much, obsess and ruminate too much, and we don’t know how to turn it off. We get caught in our heads. It’s this activity here, in our frontal lobes behind our eyes that greatly contributes to the trouble. It’s mental overdrive. Thinking, of course, is good for you. But constant thinking interferes with your body’s basic regulatory functions, which contributes to anxiety, sleep problems, and eventually depression and health problems. For example, contrary to what might be the popular belief, depressed people live in a state of constant overdrive. And there is a lot of good research linking chronic stress with deterioration in physical health as well.
The majority of people who are chronically stressed have too much activity in their frontal lobes. I call this syndrome Frontal Lobes Over-activation or FLO for short.
Dr. DD: I combine both. Coaching is typically used with people who do not necessarily suffer from any significant psychological problems, but still would like some assistance optimizing their happiness, health, and success. Many psychologists today are turning towards more positive approaches to psychotherapy, helping people draw the best out of themselves and their lives. In such approaches, overcoming suffering becomes a part of a greater agenda of optimizing well-being. I like thinking of psychological problems as opportunities to grow stronger and wiser. There is also a great health value in positive things like love, fun, laughter, creativity, and so on. Essentially, I see my role as a psychotherapist as someone who can help you clarify where you are in your life, where you would like to be, and help you figure out the best ways to get from here to there. MW: Sounds good to me. Where does one find a psychologist? Dr. DD: If you do not know anyone who can recommend one, private practice psychologists are listed in the Yellow Pages and on the website of the Manitoba Psychological Society at www.mps.mb.ca Most extended health care plans cover private psychological services. Also, nearly every hospital and several public agencies have psychologists – it is worth phoning around. MW: Thank you Doctor Dawda, I am already feeling better…
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Spring Things Retro look designer eyewear from â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;frost hot glasses.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; The Focal Point, 121 University Centre (U of M)
Crisp and classic - intricate hand carved platinum wedding band. Diamond Gallery, 1705 Corydon Ave
Hand poured ceramic tea set from Vietnam & colourful table runner from Laos. Ten Thousand Villages, 2 locations 134 Plaza Drive & 8-963 Henderson Hwy.
Warm weather here we come! Comfy flip flops & funky print dress from Custo Barcelona. Urban Oasis Mineral Spa, Clarion Hotel - 1445 Portage Ave
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Casual leather messenger bag & stylish pumps with zipper detailing from FLY London. Cha Cha Palace, 173 Lilac St
Charming birdcage, matching accent chair & dry-mounted avian themed picture. Orange Poppy, 433 River Ave.
Cute colourful wallets & change purse with floral & ladybug motifs. Gilded Lilyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, 5-877 Waverley St
Layered active wear by Motion: bra, empire cut spaghetti tank & pants with contrast colour roll-down waist. Splitz, 542 A Academy Rd
Adorable trailer style birdhouse & potted artificial plant. Thoughtful Touch, Grant Park Mall, 1120 Grant Ave
spring 2008 | STYLE MANITOBA | 51
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By Aileen Goos Photography: John Johnston
Looking Good, Seeing Better If you haven’t taken notice of a Hakim Optical, you need glasses! And if that’s the case, Sir Karim Hakimi is just the man to outfit you with a few pairs. With the eye-catching logo and even more fetching offer (two pairs of designer eyeglasses for $199), it’s no surprise that Hakim Optical is the fastest growing optical retailer in Canada. Locations are popping up on every corner “like daisies,” says founder Sir Hakimi, who’s dedicated his life to making people look and see better. “When I came to Canada, I saw optometrists had large control of the optical market,” he says. “Since then, I have manufactured and sold complete pairs of eyeglasses direct to the public for less than half of their prices – I just cut out the middle man.” Sir Hakimi travels the globe for inspiration at least four times a year, visiting optical shows in Japan, Milan and Paris, where he cherry picks the most attractive styles for his customers. More inspiring than the growth of the company is the founder’s journey from very humble beginnings. Born in Tehran, Iran, Sir Hakimi started grinding lenses by hand at age 10 when he was forced to go to work to help support his family. “My father died when I was five and we didn’t have anything left to sell to eat,” he recalls. “In those days, a complete pair of eyeglasses were made and sold for just 25 cents.” As an adult he followed his other passion, the ocean, and served two-and-a-half years as a Deep Sea Diver in the Navy before moving to Switzerland, where he returned to what he did best: grinding lenses for instruments such as cameras and telescopes. “I realized that if I stayed in Europe, I would always be working in a factory. I wanted to own my own factory,” he says, adding that his first location was in an empty dance hall on Elm Street in Toronto that he rented for $200 a month. Forty years later, Hakim Optical has grown to 140 locations across Canada (12 in Winnipeg) with more locations opening in Calgary, Red Deer and the West Edmonton Mall, as well as other parts of the country. He’s preparing to launch a 30,000 square foot state-of-theart lens manufacturing plant in Toronto, where naming a street in his honour has recently been proposed. He’s still as passionate as the day he started. Sir Hakimi, who was recognized for his generosity and was made a Knight of The Sovereign Order of St. John of Jerusalem, Knights of Malta in 2005, clearly loves his job, often clocking 12-hour days. “Fun is doing what I’m doing,” he says. “I’m encouraged by the results and by what I see. I feel I’m creating an apple orchard with thousands of trees that are bearing fruit.”
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Pampering Paradise By Aileen Goos
Photography: John Johnston 234 on Portage is everything a salon
and spa should be: opulent, luxurious and beautiful. The relaxing getaway is the vision of co-owners Mitch Fillion and Rick Irving, who wanted to create a unique spa experience that delivers exceptional customer service. “I wanted to create a spa that’s warm. Some spas tend to be cold and sterile,” says Fillion of 234 on Portage, which opened last November. “The beauty of this space is second only to our service – this is a place where you can come and relax and have a wonderful time.” Located one block west of Portage and Main with plenty of parking surrounding the location, 234 on Portage is housed within a heritage building that was built in 1904. The owners maintained the original marble, façade, staircase and vaults, and tastefully restored the rest of the space to vintage-era splendour. Even Fillion and Irving’s private residence, located on the second floor, is a truly impressive penthouse that features a grand foyer with an enormous marble fireplace and four unique male statues Fillion had custom-made out of Chinese marble, a flawless white stone, based on images he saw in fashion magazines. It’s that pursuit of flawless beauty that spa patrons can aspire to achieve through any number of services – manicures, pedicures, facials, massages or body sugaring (a less painful hair removal technique) – in the privacy of their own spa room. Fillion and Irving purposely created individual rooms to enhance that sense of relaxation. To add to that restive ambiance, 234 on Portage offers parties of 10 or more limo service to and from the spa. (All members of the party must be picked up and returned to one location.) Within the year, the duo plans to develop the lower level to expand services that require more privacy, like massages, for
example. Additional plans call for a quaint high-end boutique to open in the spa and salon’s foyer. In addition to traditional spa services, 234 on Portage also offers salon treatments in the hair studio on the second floor, which features a chic colour bar. It received the stamp of approval from Fillion’s famous friend and hairstylist to the stars, Edward Jimenez. The Beverly Hills-based Jimenez, who recently worked on Madonna’s world tour, Paul McCartney, and the latest Spice Girls’ video, has been a major influence for Fillion and Irving.
“I’ve been to many spas. There are spas in Beverly Hills that aren’t as nice as this one. People in Winnipeg don’t know how lucky they are,” says Fillion. “If this is a success, I can see us opening spas in other countries.”
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Where Relaxation & Fashion Meet
A unique concept combining a Day Spa for men and women with Fashion For Her Lifestyle - the first of its kind in Winnipeg!
Gift Cards Available SpaLifestyle & Fashion Boutique | 2001 Henderson Hwy | 661-6111 | www.spalifestylefashionboutique.ca
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Two Passions – One Luxe Location
By Aileen Goos Photography: Isabel Wolinsky Champagne and caviar… Chocolate and strawberries… Spa and fashion boutique… some things are just meant to be together. This unique concept – SpaLifestyle & Fashion Boutique – is the first of its kind in Winnipeg, and came to fruition thanks to a pair of enterprising young sisters, Kristin and Monica Janzen. The girls were inspired by their parents, Dale and
Sandra Janzen, and by their grandparents Mary and the late John J Fehr of Fehr-Way Tours and Beaver Bus Lines. For relaxation at the end of a busy day of travelling, the family would reward themselves with a visit to a local spa. Those experiences, coupled with a tremendous amount of research, resulted in the girls’ vision for the ideal spa and boutique. The design process, which has been underway for almost a year, involved a lot of decision making, along with the construction skills of the team at Dominion Construction. The end result is stunning. An eye-catching window display in the boutique is as sophisticated as it is inviting. Once inside, visitors can expect to be very pleasantly surprised. The bright, spacious interior with its combination of traditional and contemporary décor exudes an atmosphere of comfortable elegance. On the day I visited this inviting new business venture, I was greeted by a warming fireplace on the wide screen television above the impressive sales desk. A walk through the glass doors to the Day Spa revealed a serene and understated atmos-
phere, where one is immediately transported to a world of relaxation. Kristin Janzen, certified massage therapist and Branka Zivanovic, Spa Director and senior esthetician, along with their professionally
trained staff offer a full range of services. These include Facials, Microdermabrasion, Massage Therapy, Body Treatments, Waxing, Manicure and Pedicures, Lash and Brow Tinting.
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www.maplessurgicalcentre.com 58 | STYLE MANITOBA | spring 2008
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Monica Janzen and mentor Vivian Dayment’s shared flair for fashion is evident in the boutique. Vivian is a certified professional Image Consultant with a wealth of previous experience as a fashion stylist, buyer and business owner in both Vancouver and Winnipeg. With the assistance of her daughter Lori Finnigan of Vancouver, who specializes in visual display and retail merchandising, the fashion boutique was brought to life. The boutique features a fabulous selection of classy, sophisticated, high quality designs that offer versatility and individuality, and cater to the lifestyles of a growing clientele. “We offer a complete range of sizes from 2 to 24 in fashion forward looks that range from casual to career to special occasion,” says Monica. “You can expect to see labels such as Sun Flair beach fashions, Not Your Daughters Jeans, Spanner, Proportion Petite, and D-One. We also carry Simon Chang Concepts, Joseph Ribkoff and Doris Streich (fabulous plus sizes fashion), Rofa Moden and Tuzzi.” To complete your look, there is a great selection of jewellery from Simon Chang, Artistic, Treska and Caludia, along with beautiful Savican scarves and wraps, handbags by Suede, Jinger and Big Buddha, plus footwear from Luvs Shoes. Individual attention and personalized service will help customers discover their own personal style.
Similarly, in the Day Spa for Men and Women, the emphasis is on personalized service and privacy, with individual treatment rooms that feature ultra-comfortable, electrically adjustable leather reclining lounge chairs. The serene and tastefully understated atmosphere transports clients to a world of relaxation. “All of our facials for men and women incorporate Yonka Skin Care products from Paris, France,” says Kristin. “We also think it’s important that clients know what they’re putting on their well cared for skin. We offer Jane Iredale Mineral Cosmetics.” In the boutique clients will also find great gift ideas, such as Olive Empress soaps, Dead Sea Mineral products, Pacifica Candles and a variety of uniquely packaged gifts by T-Box from Turkey. Gift cards are available, and can used for both the boutique and spa services. Residents of the surrounding areas are thrilled to finally have these services in their neighbourhood. With women coming from all over to discover a new shopping experience and to pamper themselves in the Day Spa, the business is fast becoming a destination location. At SpaLifestyle & Fashion Boutique, the goal is to help you feel relaxed and look great!
The Janzens will be celebrating their grand opening with a special dinner and fashion show at Pine Ridge Golf & Country Club on April 10, 2008. Tickets will be available in the boutique. Call 661-6111 for details.
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springhair Sweetheart Style Indulge in your girly side this spring with a little vintage glamour. This modern take on a classic look is for the woman who wants to turn heads. Katie’s light blonde locks have been loosely curled and gathered at the side. Add a hint of bright colour and you’ll be the life of the party this season! Salon: Society Colour / Hairstyling: Steven Mathew Make-up / Model: Katie Clark Photography: Steven Mathew
Express Yourself! We are heading into Spring 2008 and seeing many strong hair designs. It is all about expression! Such is the case with this classic shaped chignon with the added modern twist. This style can be transformed into something smaller that can be worn out to a fun event or party. From runway to function, this redefined shape can be expressed in anyway you want it to be, creating your own individual style! Stylist: Kristen Kologie Make-up Artist: Ashley Berescheio Salon: City Looks Salon & Spa Photographer: Nghia Tran Photography
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Jazz up your long hair !!! Fashionistas with long hair are always searching for ways to transform their look without losing length. The good news is that change does not always mean sacrificing length. A new look can be achieved by altering colour, whether it is a slight or dramatic change. Or shaping can be introduced around the face, some longer layers, and for more drama, adding some hi-lites. Cynthia’s interpretation of long hair on Andrea is a fabulous example of how to make long hair look amazing and get that reaction, “Wow love your hair!” She kept Andrea’s base colour dark, a trend for spring or summer which helps eliminate a strong demarcation line when the colour is growing out. (The hi-lites are placed underneath, hiding the grow out.) You could approach the hi-lites with colour, or another option is to use hair extensions to create a colour change. Adding the strong fringe will complete this look, and bring attention to the eyes. (Ask your stylist to create a fringe that complements your facial shape) Styling products: Aveda’s new Smooth Infusion Style Prep Confixor, Brilliant Spray Shine MOP – C-System Firm Aerosol Hairspray Makeup: Kore Cosmetics (Canadian designed and manufactured) Salon: rituals in hair and skin Hair Artist: Cynthia Make-up Artist: Mariana Model: Andrea Photographer: Jerry Grajewski
Casual and Comfortable Casual and comfortable hair is in order for a spring wedding. Sarah’s style was prepared with Aveda’s Style Prep Smoother and finished with Aveda Air Control Hairspray. Rich, healthy colour has been Colour Glossed with 97% Naturally Derived Aveda Hair Colour. Hair & Makeup: Amber Casselman Salon: Oxfords Salon Spa Photo: Lucky Girl Wedding Photography
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springhair
BEAUTYBUZZ
Effective Wrinkle Solution – It’s in the Bag! Facelift in a Bag by Frownies is a non-toxic effective alternative to Botox. This is the perfect introductory system meant to create a skincare routine for men & women suffering from aging skin. Used together, the products in the bag promise visible results in as little as 14 days. For information on ordering, Facelift in a Bag, visit the website at www.frownies.com Pure Divine Shimmering Embrace Moisturizing Body Wash - A two-wave body wash that both cleanses and seals in moisture for dramatically smooth, nourished skin. Contains Glucosamine Complex and shimmering highlights, and is available in a variety of refreshing scents. Available at drug stores nationwide. Ralph Lauren Romance Limited Edition – In a frosted pink bottle adorned with a silver heart locket, this original fragrance offers a sensuous woody floral scent and has timeless romantic appeal.
Is she or isn’t she? Those seeking a new look without altering their own hair will be delighted with “Vogue,” one of many stylish wigs available at The Last Tangle. This heat resistant synthetic wig can be cut and styled to personal preference, and returns to its original shape after washing, much like human hair. The salon also carries human hair wigs, which can be cut, coloured and styled to taste. The Last Tangle offers special fittings in a private wig room, where clients can choose from a wide in-house selection or custom order via catalogue. Whether satisfying your inner diva or for health related reasons, a high quality wig can offer the style you’re seeking. Stylist: Selina Malko Salon: The Last Tangle Photography: John Johnston
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The newest edition to the Ralph family, Ralph Wild is for the girl who is spontaneous, fun and fearless! Drenched with an exuberant blend of wild strawberries and watermelon, its midnotes are a unique blend of Cherry Blossom, Sheer Jasmine and Red Rose Petals. Both fragrances available at select department and drug stores nationwide.
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French Toast Fingers This French toast variation makes a delicious snack, lunch or brunch. 4 eggs 2 tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice (30 mL) ½ tsp grated orange rind (2 mL) ¼ tsp salt (1 mL) ½ cup strawberry jam (125 mL) 4 thick slices day-old sandwich white bread 4 thick slices day-old sandwich whole wheat bread Cooking spray Icing sugar (optional) Maple syrup (optional) Whisk eggs, orange juice, orange rind and salt in a small bowl; set aside. Spread 2 tbsp (30 mL) jam on each slice of white bread; place whole
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wheat bread slices on top. Trim crusts; cut each sandwich into three even strips. Dip both sides in egg mixture until all egg mixture is absorbed. Spray a griddle or a large non-stick skillet with cooking spray. Heat over medium heat. Cook bread strips for 2 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Dust with icing sugar, if desired. Serve with a small bowl of maple syrup for dipping. Nutrients per serving: Calories: 358 Protein: 12.2 g Carbohydrate: 59.8 g Fat: 8.0 g
Sausage and Pepper Frittata Spicy and flavourful as a main meal or a next-day snack. 8 eggs ¼ cup skim milk (50 mL) 1 ½ tsp dried thyme leaves (7 mL) 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (30 mL) ½ tsp salt (2 mL) Freshly ground pepper, to taste 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, casing removed (500 g) ½ cup chopped onion (125 mL) 1 red pepper, chopped 2 tsp chopped garlic (10 mL) Beat eggs with milk, thyme, parsley, salt and pepper. Set aside. Cook sausage in a 10-inch (25 cm) non-stick skillet over medium heat until it is no longer pink; drain fat. Remove from skillet and set aside. Heat same skillet over medium-high heat and cook onion, red pepper and garlic for 5 minutes or until softened. Stir in cooked sausage. Pour in egg mixture over sausage mixture; lower heat to medium. As mixture begins to set lift edges to allow the uncooked egg to flow underneath. Cook until top is almost set. Broil for 1 to 2 minutes or until top is set. Cut into wedges to serve. Serve with light tomato sauce or salsa, if desired. Tip: If broiling, skillet handle should be heatproof or skillet should be ovenproof. Nutrients per serving: Calories: 270 Protein: 20.3 g Carbohydrate: 4.6 g Fat: 18.6 g
Fudgey Brownies A decadently delicious treat with a cold glass of milk. 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour (300 mL) 1 tsp baking powder (5 mL) ½ tsp salt (2 mL) ¾ cup butter or margarine (175 mL) ¾ cup Cocoa powder (175 mL) 1 cup packed brown sugar (250 mL) 1 cup white sugar (250 mL) 4 eggs 2 tsp vanilla extract (10 mL) 1 cup chopped walnuts (250 mL) Cooking spray Blend together flour, baking powder and salt; set aside. Melt butter over low heat in a large saucepan. Remove from heat. Stir in cocoa. Beat in brown sugar, white sugar, eggs and vanilla. Stir in dry ingredients and walnuts. Spray a 9-inch square pan (23 cm) with cooking spray. Spread batter in pan. Bake in a 350ºF (180ºC) oven for 40 minutes. Do not over bake. Cool completely. Spread Fudgey Icing over top.
Fudgey Icing
2 tbsp butter or margarine (30 mL) ¼ cup cocoa powder (50 mL) ½ tsp vanilla extract (2 mL) 2 cups sifted icing sugar (500 mL) ¼ cup milk (50 mL)
Melt butter over low heat in a medium saucepan. Remove from heat. Stir in cocoa and vanilla. Stir in icing sugar and milk until smooth and of spreading consistency.
Nutrients per serving: Calories: 356 Protein: 4.9 g Carbohydrate: 50.7 g Fat: 17.0 g spring 2008 | STYLE MANITOBA | 65
Supportive housing for independent seniors
Sterling House 489-4745
Dakota House 663-4983
Our goal is to provide the best possible service in support of our residents and to deliver that service in a secure and comfortable residential setting. Included in our monthly rents: • Dinner and a light brunch served in a central dining room • Weekly light housekeeping • Activities, exercise and multi purpose common areas • Private guest suite and laundry facilities available on each floor • On site hair salon, personal banking services and private dining room • Full time management on site with residence assistance from 9AM to 9PM • 24 hour emergency phone service • Individualized air conditioning and heat controls in each suite
For further information please call the residence of your choice. visit our website at www.homesteadmanitoba.ca
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Kildonan House 338-8182
By Aileen Goos Photography: John Johnston
Today’s housing options for seniors are extensive compared to those of yesteryear. Not merely apartment blocks for the elderly, today’s retirement residences offer so much more than simply a place to live alongside residents of similar age.
Best of the Best
Dakota House
The sprawling south St. Vital seniors’ complex is a comfortable, safe and cozy home. Dakota House has everything residents could ask for and more, exuding a cozy, homelike feeling that’s a combination of the people who live and work there.
The choices are endless, depending on location preference, special interests and the kinds of services offered at the various locations around Winnipeg. Before making a selection, it’s advisable to do a bit of research, assess what’s important to you or your loved one, visit websites (most feature virtual tours) and ask for brochures.
It is the newest of three 55-plus independent living developments operated by Homestead Manitoba, joining sister properties Sterling House, opened three years ago, and Kildonan House, which just celebrated its 5th Anniversary in February of this year.
Once you’ve done all the preliminary research, take a tour of your favourite places. Talk to some of the residents about their experience. (With Winnipeg being the close-knit community that it is, you’re bound to know someone who lives at the facility.)
There’s always something going on at Dakota House – whether it’s a rousing game of BINGO, presentations from health and wellness groups, or activities and exercise classes planned by Laura, the recreation coordinator. In addition, residents enjoy monthly casino trips, and weekly shopping trips to nearby malls and grocery stores.
Here’s a sampling of the city’s finest retirement communities, some new and others more established.
“Our tenants love musical entertainment and sing a longs,” says Jeff Hamm, manager of Dakota House. “You can tell by the looks on their faces – it takes them back to another time.” “I’ve even seen some dancing!” remarks Rya, Marketing Director.
When they’re not out and about, the tenants gather in the spacious dining room, where they are treated to two healthy and nutritious meals per day prepared by professionally trained kitchen staff. Brunch is served buffet style from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., with attendants assisting those in walkers and wheelchairs; dinner is served from 4 to 6:30 p.m. “Seniors living in their own homes usually do not want to cook for themselves anymore. Here they are served delicious, healthy meals ever day,” says Rya. Dakota House opened in July 2006, and all 170 suites are now fully occupied. There are three different floor plans available. Each suite includes in-suite storage room, a balcony, fridge and stove, space for a microwave, and central air conditioning. Other services available on site include a hair salon, banking, pharmacy, library, and post office. The monthly rent includes meals, weekly housekeeping services, laundry on each floor, and garbage check every morning, which doubles as an opportunity for staff to ensure that the residents are okay. The front desk is open from 9:00am to 9:00pm, and the building is monitored 24 hours a day. “It’s very much like a family here,” says Rya. “Our tenants are our first priority.” spring 2008 | STYLE MANITOBA | 67
nOW OPEN
The Parkway
Retirement living in a family friendly environment.
55+ Independent Living DISPLAY SUITE OPEN MONDAY - FRIDAY 8:30AM -4:30PM
• One & Two Bedroom Suites • Continental Breakfast and Dinner • Weekly Housekeeping • Entertainment and Social Activities • In-suite Laundry • Enclosed Parking • Movie Theatre
Located off Sterling Lyon Parkway between Kenaston Boulevard and Waverley Street
For more information or to reserve a suite at the Parkway visit www.theparkway.ca or call 487-8500 68 | STYLE MANITOBA | spring 2008
The Parkway
The Parkway Retirement Community is more than a seniors’ residence – it’s a resort for independent members of the 55+ club who want to make the most of their later years. From the grand covered canopy entrance and the saltwater aquarium in the foyer to the stately dining room and multi-purpose room with a dance floor, the minds behind The Parkway have thought of everything to make the 121-suite facility a great place to retire. “We did a lot of research,” says Karen Wosnitza, The Parkway’s Administrator. “When people move into a family friendly environment, they’re energized by the warmth and caring that a community like this provides.” Wosnitza anticipates the retirement community will be at full capacity by summer. Those lucky enough to land a suite can choose from three floor plans, all of which feature a patio/balcony, in-suite laundry areas that are spacious enough to double as storage, open dining / living room areas with kitchenettes that include a fridge, stove and microwave, and generous-sized bathrooms. Residents also have the option of a fireplace.
There’s no limit to the things a resident can do at The Parkway. There’s a pool room, which will eventually host pool tournaments, a hair/nail salon, a theatre with rear-projection screen and theatre-style seating for 30, as well as a popcorn machine, and an entertainment centre that houses three TVs, a Wii, electronic games, and an Internet lounge.
choice of entrée, soup or salad, and beverages and dessert. Indoor or outdoor parking is available.
“When grandchildren come to visit, we know they will enjoy our entertainment centre while visiting with grandma and grandpa,” says Wosnitza.
The Parkway staff includes live-in security, who add to peace of mind for residents, and an onsite recreational coordinator, who plans movie nights, information seminars and outings. Electronic monitors outside each of the four elevators display daily menus and activities to keep tenants well informed.
A small convenience store is about to open that will carry a large selection of items, and there are plans to license the dining room so residents can enjoy a glass of wine with their meals. There’s an abundance of natural light flooding in through the banks of windows, as well as the 16 bright sunrooms and common areas where residents can enjoy the fitness room, game room or socialize in the library.
“Some people are renewed after they’ve been here for a short while,” says Wosnitza. “They’re eating nutritious meals and socializing with new friends.”
The Parkway is operated by Marwest Management Canada Limited, a locally owned company with strong roots in the Winnipeg community.
Residential fees, which range from $1,900 to $2,500 monthly, include utilities, weekly housekeeping, daily garbage collection and security checks. The Parkway’s professional culinary team provides continental breakfast and dinner, which is served and includes a
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www.retirementresidences.com 70 | STYLE MANITOBA | spring 2008
Four great choices
Portsmouth, Wellington, Waverley and Rosewood may be owned by the same parent company, but each is very distinct in the amenities they offer. “We don’t serve our residents well by taking a cookie cutter approach,” says Patti Ferguson, Executive Director of Portsmouth Retirement Residence. “Our mission is to enhance lives with choices.” While all are fully occupied, the wait lists are dynamic, and interested retirees are urged to plan ahead and make application in order to obtain the suite of their choice at the time that is right for them. Each site offers meal packages, convenience store and transportation services, but the scope of activities and services are as different as the locations, and reflect the personal choices of their respective residents.
Portsmouth Retirement Residence Walking into Portsmouth Retirement Residence is like walking into an elegant hotel, where women find a spot on one of the comfortable over-sized sofas after lunch and chat like old girlfriends about whatever topics suit their fancy. “One of our residents told me they live on the best cruise ship on the prairies,” muses Ferguson.
It’s easy to see why – Portsmouth, which opened eight years ago, is a three-storey complex nestled off of Taylor that overlooks a wonderful green space where residents can stroll or walk their dogs. (This particular retirement community allows small pets.) Included in Portsmouth’s services are two daily fine dining options: lunch and dinner served in the formal dining room, where residents are often treated to live music on the grand piano. Residents can also opt for muffins and beverages in the lounge at breakfast time. The beauty salon, chapel, library and theatre are amenities that enhance the daily lives of Portsmouth residents. A well-developed transportation service that takes residents on recreational outings and to medical appointments is a service that is valued by many, says Ferguson. “It’s reassuring to know that not being able to drive won’t limit their independence and access to the community,” she notes. Ample parking is available for those with cars. Portsmouth ensures its residents’ safety with security call systems in all common areas and in every suite, as well as the daily Good Morning Check, to ensure that all is well.
The Wellinton The Wellington Retirement Community is the grand dame of Winnipeg retirement communities as well as being the first such establishment in the city. Impeccably maintained, the residence is set behind the Assiniboine Forest. Its location offers proximity to major amenities, and it is not unusual for residents to see deer and fawn from their windows. A number of The Wellington’s staff members have been with the residence since it first opened 20 years ago, which provides an established culture of well-being and illustrates the commitment, compassion and care they have for the people who call The Wellington home. The Wellington offers a wide selection of fine dining choices to their residents. Flexibility in the meal options are a great feature that encourages families and friends to dine regularly. The popular omelette bar on Sundays, monthly themed dinner buffets, and special birthday dinners followed by live entertainment are favourite times to invite guests. The Maitre D’ and servers know the residents well, and specialize in anticipating their next wish. The retirement residence also has highly-developed exercise and activities programs, including an area for gardening, concerts staged by the Manitoba Conservatory of Music and Arts, and a Distinguished Speakers series offered spring 2008 | STYLE MANITOBA | 71
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through a partnership with the University of Winnipeg. “It’s intellectually stimulating for the residents,” says Ferguson, who notes that an active resident council provides input and liaises with staff in planning many of the activities. The Wellington residents love to dance, and there’s often live music for special events. “It all contributes to maintaining the independence of residents and continuing to enjoy many of the things they love to,” remarks Ferguson.
The Waverley The Waverley Retirement Community and Rosewood Supportive Housing: one great location; two distinct retirement residences, each catering to different needs of retirees. The Waverley is for active seniors who enjoy all the pleasures of retired life, without the hassle of daily chores. Located centrally at the corner of Waverley and Wilkes, this residence enjoys a large park-like setting, with wonderful walking paths and a waterfall. Pet lovers will enjoy the fact that it’s located across from the new Humane Society facility, where seniors who love animals, but don’t have pets can show some TLC to the animals at the shelter. The main floor is fashioned much like a resort, with wood and stone décor, a fireplace in the foyer and a full-service bar. Friday afternoon happy hour is a highlight of the week! While the monthly fees include dinner, The Waverley is unique in offering a full hot breakfast and lunch in an affordable additional package.
LANDSCAPING | PERENNIALS | ANNUALS | GIFT SHOP | HOME ACCENTS | OPEN yEAR ROUND
St Mary’s Nursery & Garden Centre Ltd 2901 St Mary’s Rd Phone: 255-7353
Rosewood Rosewood offers a cozy environment with enhanced supports for seniors who benefit from one-to-one attention. Residents have their own personal suites, which open onto a common area where they gather for delicious family-style meals, and enjoy ongoing interaction with their neighbours and staff. A tenant companion is available to provide 24-hour care and support, and can assist with supervising medications and serving meals. “Rosewood provides additional attention to those residents who need it,” explains Ferguson. “It is reassuring for both residents and families to know that enhanced care is offered within a single location.” Rosewood is part of the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority (WRHA) Supportive Housing program; in conjunction with touring this unique residence, families should chat with their loved one’s Home Care Case Coordinator for additional information about moving to Rosewood.
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Prairie Heart, West Coast Style By Leigh Patterson Jason Woznesensky, owner of Bedrock Custom Landscaping, approaches each landscaping project as a work of art. That philosophy is evident throughout the yard of his clients, Ron and Tina Cancilla, which was completed last summer. As the owners of this new Maric Home located in Royalwood, the Cancillas desired an outdoor space where they could entertain friends, family and have play space for their grandchildren. Woznesensky started with a blank canvas â&#x20AC;&#x201C; an undeveloped expanse of yard sloped down to a creek. To add definition and visual interest to the yard, he created two levels, each designed to be distinctive and functional in its own right. The lower level consists of a sunken area featuring a fire pit. The Cancillas liked the dark rich look of the Dynasty slate patio stone, which complements the cultured stone on the home. Large weath-
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ered boulders were also integrated to accentuate the craftsmanship and style of the residence. Annuals, shrubs and perennials planted in maintenance-free beds soften the hardscaping. Woznesensky incorporated a curved staircase to give an unstructured, more natural flow to the yard. An adjacent swath of
green space gives the grandchildren lots of room to play. Closer to the house, he designed and built a large patio area for the Cancillas to entertain guests combined with a water feature of black granite that provides a constant, tranquil sound enjoyed from the dining area or the nearby hot tub. Red and burgundy tones of Barberry and “Diablo” Ninebark pop against the backdrop of decorative black granite used in the surrounding garden bed. A low retaining wall provides needed height for the water feature, helps define the space, provides additional seating and at the same time gives continuity between the lower and upper portions of the yard.
use Megalith Stone, a new product available this year through Barkman Concrete. Megalith’s modern, flagstone design has great appeal due to its easy care and distinctive look. With all his projects, Woznesensky first meets with clients to determine their needs, wants, lifestyle, budget and problems, and then suggests the most suitable landscaping options. His creative designs and customer-centered approach has garnered referrals from new home developers and established homeowners alike. “I do believe in and stand by the credo that if you look after your customers and employees, the business will take care of itself.”
Woznesensky divides his time between Winnipeg in the summer and B.C. in the winter. The west coast’s temperate climate allows him to try new things and enhance his landscaping knowledge. His Winnipeg clients benefit from his experience, as he is able to incorporate some West Coast influence into his local designs. For example, Woznesensky is a fan of the accent lighting popular in B.C. gardens, since it allows homeowners to enjoy their yards into the evening hours. “People invest so much in their yard, I want them to get the most out of it,” he says. Woznesensky also likes to offer his clients the latest in landscape design solutions. Bedrock is the first company in Manitoba to
spring 2008 | STYLE MANITOBA | 75
Building Dreams from the Ground Up By Leigh Patterson Paul Veert, President of Veert Landscaping Inc., will get behind the controls of a Bobcat himself if it means getting a job done on time. After nearly 19 years of dedicated customer service, combined with unparalleled expertise and an extensive fleet of equipment, it’s no wonder that his company is one of the most sought after by commercial and residential customers looking to do extensive landscape and excavation work on their properties. Veert Landscaping has completed major projects in Winnipeg and throughout Manitoba, including the construction of the outdoor amphitheatre at The Forks, the revegetation of 2,000 acres of land excavated by the Floodway expansion, as well as landscaping on properties as diverse as the new Humane Society grounds, the Swan River Valley Hospital and the newly renovated Hecla Oasis Resort. The company has also installed the largest amount of retaining wall in the province, including those around homes on Kingston Row and St. Norbert designed by the province for flood protection. While contributing to the building of local communities, Veert Landscaping is bringing knowledge gained under the strictest codes and standards to the company’s residential clients, who also benefit from the investments Veert has made in specialized equipment. This includes a new hydro seeder that uses a blend of grass seed, water and growing medium that can then be sprayed over a larger area – a process more economical than covering the same area with sod. “We also have two topsoil screeners which use a mix of peat moss, manure, sand and black earth to custom blend the soil to suit the application,” says Veert. A well-designed home landscape is aesthetically pleasing and functional, adding value to your home while you enjoy the surroundings. There are no limits to what Veert Landscaping
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can do, whether you want to landscape your home with trees, shrubs and sod, or if you are considering a patio, retaining wall, a new walk or driveway. “Our professional staff can do it all,” notes Veert. Homeowners, particularly in newly developed neighbourhoods, often take advantage of Veert Landscaping’s “supply and spread service,” which allows a number of residents on the same street to order a large supply of customblended soil, which is spread among all the properties by Veert Landscaping’s equipment and prepared for sod application by the homeowners. “The yards blend in, the homeowners save money and it’s a way for them get to know their new neighbours,” Veert says, adding that another advantage to this service is that holes can be dug for tree planting, which saves homeowners time and money. Do-it-yourselfers can also rent equipment through sister company Veert Rentals Inc. “When we come to work on your yard, we want the customer to know the job will be done right,” Veert says. All work is done by in-house staff, and Veert himself is always available on call for his clients. Veert Landscaping also offers a one-year warranty on any and all work done, which provides additional peace of mind. Homeowners in developments such as Pritchard Farm, Lindenwoods, Tuxedo and even cottage country have relied on Veert Landscaping’s solid, well-rounded experience, equipment knowledge and proven track record. Veert strives to ensure his client’s needs are met, and services “delivered exactly as promised.” “From excavation to finished product, we want to help people design their dream property.”
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Spring has Sprung! Quick & Easy Lawn Cleanup Tips Ahh - spring is in the air! It smells dirty, mouldy, and soggy. Yes - this must be spring in Winnipeg. There’s sand, mud and animal droppings all over the lawn. There’s no avoiding it -cleaning up the yard is inevitable. After the house and perhaps the car, for many people, the landscape surrounding their home requires the most financial investment and time over the year. Yet every year, I find so many homeowners cutting corners and taking shortcuts that ultimately end up costing them more time, money, and effort in the long term than if they had just done things right in the first place. Your landscape is your largest living investment and looking after it can pay dividends. In fact, a beautiful, well-kept landscape tells everyone how well you take care of your property. If done properly, cleaning up the lawn and getting it green fast is not all that difficult. It’s as easy as 1-2-3.
Step One
Time: About 30 minutes (for the average lawn) For starters, get all of your equipment tuned up and ready to go. Before getting started on the lawn, make sure there aren’t any soggy, wet spots. If there are, the lawn isn’t ready. Be patient and wait a few more days. Once the lawn is dry, rent a power rake. These incredible machines are available for rent from most major hardware and equipment rental stores for about $60. You could even get together with a couple of neighbours to split the cost. Try to avoid the ‘bagging’ type of power rake, as they do not do a thorough job. A power rake is about the size of a lawn mower and operates in much the same way. All you have to do is walk behind it. Before firing up the power rake, make sure the lawn is clear of any garbage or debris. Begin power raking somewhere inconspicuous where you can adjust the height of the power rake. DO NOT power rake backwards or go over the same spot twice as this WILL damage your lawn. Drop the height until you notice the rake starting to damage the 78 | STYLE MANITOBA | spring 2008
Jason Woznesensky
The Grass has Riz! By Tim Muys
204.990.7514
jason@bedrocklandscape.ca
www.bedrocklandscape.ca
lawn, then raise it up just a bit from there to get the ideal height for your lawn. Now all you have to do is power rake the rest of the lawn. Be careful going over any hills or bumps in the lawn, and overlap your rows just a bit to ensure that no strips are missed. The power rake will leave plenty of dead grass behind that may come out of the machine in big clumps. An average 50x100 foot lawn only takes about 20 minutes to power rake and this tool does 10 times the job of a hand rake. In fact, you’ll probably never hand rake your lawn again.
Step Two
Time: This depends on how thick your lawn is, as well as how long or short your lawn was in the fall. The next step is to use a fan rake for gathering up as much of the dead grass as possible. Make small manageable piles that will be easy to fit into one or two garbage bags. This will be the most time consuming part of the clean up. Once all the piles have been bagged up, you’re ready for step three.
Step Three
Time: About twice as long as it would normally take to simply cut your lawn in the summer. For this step, you’ll need a bagging lawn mower. Set the height to about 1½ inches. Now all you have to do is mow up the little bits of debris that are left on the lawn. Go slow and empty the bag often. This will vacuum up anything that’s left in the lawn and give it a clean trim revealing the new fresh green growth and colour that was under all that mess. If there’s lots of sand left in the lawn, use a coarse broom or leaf blower to blow it onto the street. Before calling it a day, give the lawn a quick spray with the garden hose. Each blade of grass has a layer of dust and dirt on it after all of this. Giving it a quick spray will rinse it off and really bring out the colour.
Landscape & excavation contractors 3280 St. Mary’s Road 204-256-5000 Toll Free 877-256-5200
www.veert.com spring 2008 | STYLE MANITOBA | 79
Pride in ownership shows with a beautiful lawn. STANDARD
PHOSPHATE FREE
DELUXE
6 TREATMENTS (3 VISITS)
10 TREATMENTS (4 VISITS)
• SPRING FERTILIZER • SPRING WEED CONTROL • SUMMER FERTILIZER • SUMMER WEED CONTROL • LATE SUMMER FERTILIZER • LATE SUMMER WEED CONTROL
• SPRING FERTILIZER • SPRING WEED CONTROL • EARLY SUMMER FERTILIZER • EARLY SUMMER WEED CONTROL • LATE SUMMER FERTILIZER • LATE SUMMER WEED CONTROL • FALL FERTILIZER • FALL WEED CONTROL • FREE INSECT CONTROL • FREE IRON SUPPLEMENT
Our most economical program provides your lawn with all the essentials producing a quick green-up, plus healthy growth and colour throughout the season. Your lawn will receive regular feeding in the spring, when it begins active growth, in the summer, to keep it lush through the summer heat, and in the late summer, to keep it green into the fall. You get weed control treatments with every visit to virtually eliminate both the visible and undeveloped weeds. You will see visible weed control results on your dandelions within 24 hours of your first treatment!100% guaranteed to improve the health and appearance of your lawn and virtually eliminate weeds for up to 30 days after each treatment.
* 49 $139. PLUS GST
SAVE $15.49
PARAMOUNT
PHOSPHATE FREE
Our most popular program containing all the necessary nutrients for a guaranteed beautiful lawn. It provides your lawn with a quick green-up. Additional feedings at regular intervals will create a thicker, healthier, stronger lawn with a deep green colour throughout the season. The free iron supplement will give your lawn a sustained darker and richer colour. Weeds are completely eliminated quickly and permanently. With free insect control, your lawn receives additional protection. The “deluxe” program encourages strong root growth and creates a mass of healthy and thick top growth that will deter any stress.All 100% guaranteed! For the greenest weed-free lawn on the block!
12 TREATMENTS (5 VISITS) • SPRING FERTILIZER • SPRING WEED CONTROL • EARLY SUMMER FERTILIZER • EARLY SUMMER WEED CONTROL • MIDSUMMER FERTILIZER • MIDSUMMER WEED CONTROL • LATE SUMMER FERTILIZER • LATE SUMMER WEED CONTROL • FALL WINTER FERTILIZER • FALL WEED SUPPRESSANT • FREE INSECT CONTROL • FREE IRON SUPPLEMENT Manitoba’s most complete lawn care program f e a t u resall of the benefits of the deluxe program, plus a fall application of winter fertilizer as well as our exclusive weed suppressant. The winter fertilizer continues to feed your lawn right into next spring to give your lawn the fastest green-up on the block next year, again. Our exclusive weed suppressant insure s that next spring, you won’t see a single weed. Receiving monthly feedings designed to enrich both your lawn and the soil, the “paramount” program encourages incredible microbial activity.The “paramount” pro g r a m is unsurpassed in its’ ability to produce a rich, deep green, thick lawn with long-lasting results.
* 98 $185. PLUS GST
SAVE $20.67
* 48 $232. PLUS GST
SAVE $25.82
* PREPAID PRICE FOR AN AVERAGE SIZE LAWN. 10% DISCOUNT HAS BEEN APPLIED.
ADD AERATION TO ANY PROGRAM ! ONLY
$66.66*
Plus GST
Annual aeration is recommended. The savings on your water bill will easily cover the cost of aerating, not to mention the benefit to your lawn. Aeration is perf o rmed to c o rrect compacted soil and poor drainage; to improve water and fertilizer absorption and penetration; improve heat and drought tolerance; and improve weed and insect control effectiveness. Aerating consists of perforating the soil with small holes that allow water, air, and fertilizer to reach the roots where they are most needed.
CALL 837-1764 TODAY AND SAVE 10% GREEN BLADE LAWN CARE
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Turf Talk By Tim Muys
Bugged about your lawn? Ask the lawn care professional… Q. Phosphorous fertilizer is being banned in Manitoba. What does this mean to the average homeowner? Can I still fertilize my lawn? A. Phosphorous is just one of the three main nutrients that make up most lawn fertilizers. Its role is primarily to assist new grass plants establish roots quickly and to help established grass plants grow stronger root systems. Of the three numbers clearly visible on the front of all lawn fertilizers, the middle number represents the amount of phosphorous in that particular bag. In Manitoba, your lawn produces an ample supply of phosphorous on its own. Most lawn care companies have already removed phosphorous from their products. The ban takes effect January 1st, 2009, so if you have any old fertilizer in the garage, be sure to finish it off this summer. Hardware stores and garden centres will be removing all fertilizers containing phosphorous from their shelves, replacing them with new phosphate-free fertilizers. Nitrogen, the first number indicated on the fertilizer label, is the nutrient responsible for the rich green colour in your lawn and is not affected by the ban. Phosphate-free fertilizers will green up your lawn just as well as those that previously contained phosphorous. Q. A.
What are chinch bugs? Chinch bugs are small insects that kill grass plants. They feed on the juices within the grass plant by biting into the plant and sucking the juices out. Before pulling their mouths off the plant, they inject it with a microscopic but fatal dose of poison, which slowly kills the grass plant over a 7 to14 day period. Chinch bugs have voracious appetites and can handily destroy a lawn in a very short time. They are egg-shaped, grey in colour and lie dormant in winter. Mating begins in early summer. Female chinch bugs lay 200 to 300 eggs each, usually once in mid-summer and then again in late summer. Adolescent bugs are half the size of adults, and are red or maroon in colour with a distinct white line across their backs. Adults are grey with a white triangle on their backs. Chinch bugs walk quickly, and although adults have wings, they rarely fly. They cause the most damage during hot, dry periods, particularly in July and August. This is primarily because grass plants begin to shrivel at that time of the season, forcing the bugs to feed off multiple plants for a full meal. At first, small fist-sized dead patches form, which quickly merge into larger patches. Chinch bugs are very easy to spot in the lawn. If you suspect infestation, it is important to call a professional lawn care company immediately, because once the lawn is dead, there is no way to bring it back. Damaged areas will need to be replaced. Chinch bugs can be controlled, but you must be vigilant. Keep your lawn watered during dry periods and leave the grass higher (4 inches) from late June to the end of September. If one your neighbours has an outbreak, be ready. Chinch bugs will cross the street to get to the other side!
Q. A.
How often should I aerate? An aeration consists of perforating the soil with small holes to allow water, air and fertilizer to penetrate deeper into the root system of the lawn, where they can be more effective. Sounds like a good idea to me. Ultimately, your fertilizer will work better, the rain will penetrate better and you won’t have to water as much. You will more than likely save the cost of the aeration on your water bill alone, especially now that water rates have gone up by close to 14%. Your lawn will always benefit from it, particularly during extreme heat and drought. However, if you do get an aeration, make sure that the aerating machine is a “piston” aerator. A “drum” aerator rolls over the lawn making poor holes, and can easily tear up the turf, whereas a piston-driven aerator uses tines that drive straight up and down into the lawn making clean, deep holes.
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A stop into one of Krevco Lifestyles
Home Spa Heaven
five locations is a step for which your body will thank you again and again. A specialist in everything from hot tubs and complete home spa packages to exercise equipment to outdoor pools and rec room entertainment, this company has made a name for itself as a leading retailer of lifestyle upgrade products. In fact, Krevco is the largest leisure company in all of Western Canada with three stores in Winnipeg, one in Brandon and one in Kenora. “We offer affordability as well as huge selection of products from top manufacturers,” says Krevco vice-president and managing partner Craig Gatzlaff. He points to innovative new additions such as the Master Spa STS hot tub that features a retractable 19-inch LCD television and four-speaker theatre sound, as well as new infrared saunas and exciting tanning bed options. “We can offer these products at prices others can’t touch because of our five-store buying power,” he comments, adding that they have products for every taste and home configuration. “Really, we deliver a total lifestyle offering that makes a home a place of relaxation and wellness.” Indeed, the new infrared saunas that retail for under $3000 for a four-person unit offer much to those suffering from a variety of ailments. “Dry saunas are easy on the joints and combat things like arthritis and fibro myalgia. They are also a great cure for the cold winter weather,” he says, remarking that homeowners just plug these units into existing wall electrical outlets, a fact that means low cost installation. Krevco’s line of tanning beds provide yet another option to those seeking to create a relaxing home retreat. Available in the below $2000 range, Gatzlaff comments that a credit purchase of a home tanning bed is often cheaper each month than paying to go to a commercial tanning salon. As well, he adds, “An at home tanning bed is cleaner and more private than those used constantly at a salon.” Krevco’s tanning products are from ESB Home Tanning Systems, the largest and most complete line of home tanning units in North America. “There are plenty of benefits Manitobans can obtain from home tanning. During winter months we all need a boost of vitamin D to improve mood. A good tan delivers an overall sense of health and wellness and let’s you look great as well,” he says. And the showroom at the Winnipeg Berry St. location offers virtually every product imaginable for soothing and refreshing bodies stressed and strained from the rigours of day-to-day life in these times. spring 2008 | STYLE MANITOBA | 83
The Beauty of Stone without the Mason.
With EASYROCK you are limited only by your imagination... Easy Rock offers a variety of decorative stone panels, profiles and colours that can be used as alternatives to real stone. a fantastic Do it yourself product that can be installed with the greatest of ease. No mason required!
â&#x20AC;˘ Lightweight â&#x20AC;˘ R VaLue of 4.5/ paneL
Dealer enquiries call: Fort Distributors Ltd. 938 McPhillips Road st. andrews, Manitoba R1a 4E7 Tel: (204) 785-2180 Fax: (204) 785-2728 e-mail: grant@fortdistributors.com
www.easyrockproducts.com
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Tough & Easy
“Imagination is your only limitation with EASYROCK,” states Grant Jehle of Fort Distributors. Jehle is speaking about a brilliant new décor product created with highly durable polyurethane that provides all the appearance of cultured stone walls without the expense, the weight and the difficulty of construction. “This product has over 30 years of proven performance,” says Jehle, remarking that an increasing number of contractors and D.I.Y. builders have discovered the ease of use and solid performance of EASYROCK. “It might be minus 40 degrees outside, but this doesn’t stop construction of great looking exterior walls. With EASYROCK, there is no mortar to freeze or complicated construction,” he notes, adding that EASYROCK is available in four profiles and four colour selections that are hard to differentiate from real stone. Jehle reports that a wide range of customers have approached Fort Distributors to obtain EASYROCK panels. Now there is a growing dealer network like Selkirk Home Hardware to make the product even easier to obtain. “We’ve seen a lot of interest from people building
and renovating cottages and homes, as well as businesses from banks to bars that want an inexpensive and durable interior or exterior upgrade.” Panels weigh only two and a half pounds and require just eight screws to fasten to walls. Each panel is joined with a lap indent to make portions seamless in appearance. Screws are covered with coloured caulking (Fort Distributors offers a selection of eight colours) making them virtually invisible when the installation is complete. Jehle comments that the product is also extremely forgiving, making it an excellent choice for all skill levels, from the earnest novice to professional tradesmen. Fort Distributors also offers a selection of accessories such as ledgers, trim, 90-degree corners, and keystones to provide custom touches. “EASYROCK can be applied directly over existing stucco, lap siding or brick,” he says, adding that anyone with a basic understanding of carpentry can install EASYROCK panels. Benefits are many. For instance, EASYROCK carries an R4.5 designation making it part of a home’s energy seal. EASYROCK is also rated as a ‘Built Green’ product and is 100 percent inert. In fact, in a fire, EASYROCK is less toxic than wood smoke.
“The durability is excellent with tests showing EASYROCK will maintain its authentic look for over 20 years. The fact that the product is coated with actual rock dust enhances its true-to-life appearance and aids in its non-fade capability. It’s also more impact resistant than real stone and is extremely difficult to fracture, making it a great choice for families with active young children or businesses that see a lot of traffic.” And while it’s said that a rolling stone gathers no moss, EASYROCK will not absorb moisture, and as such, gathers no mildew, an attribute that makes it ideal for installation below soil grade. “There are so many examples of how people use EASYROCK,” remarks Jehle. “ I’ve seen privacy walls erected around hot tubs, decorative cladding on commercial buildings and very tasteful cottage renovations that take a property to a whole new level. Virtually, anywhere you might consider a stone product, EASYROCK will offer a lower cost, easier installation that will stand up.”
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Plan for Performance JELD-WEN windows, interior doors and exterior doors provide a range of installation options to fit the needs of your project while features such as energy-efficiency, durability and noise control fit the needs of your life. When you start with JELD-WEN, you can plan on enduring performance.
www.jeld-wen.ca
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Š2007 JELD-WEN of Canada, Ltd. Reliability for real life is a trademark of JELD-WEN, inc., Oregon, USA. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
No Pane, No Gain By Kelly Gray
Photo courtesy of All Weather Windows
If your home is more than 20 years old,
a look into some new windows might offer a clear view to creating a home advantage. Indeed, such are the advances in window technology that the purchase of new windows can not only put money in your pocket, but can also help the environment and add greater comfort to the old homestead. Homeowners should seek the best window they can afford and look to a quality contractor for proper installation. No matter how good a window is in the showroom, if it’s not placed properly, the sashes won’t be true and it will not close the way it should. The gaps around the window must also be correctly sealed and insulated. Older homes may require work to home insulation values to bring the building up
to a standard that will allow the windows to deliver their full potential. Older homes typically require a more experienced contractor because of all the surprises that occur when retrofitting. “Energy efficient windows can improve comfort, lower energy bills, and help block outside noise,” says Manitoba Hydro’s Tim Johnson. He advises homeowners replacing older windows or planning an addition to look at triple pane windows with Low-E coatings, argon fill, and insulated spacers to increase the R-value. (R-value is the measure of a material’s resistance to the passage of heat. The higher the R-value, the more insulating power). “The difference in cost can be minimal,” says Johnson. “In fact, one customer told me that going with triple pane windows
added only $650 to a $6000 window replacement project.”
Home to the Best Manitoba is home to some of the continent’s leading window manufacturers and distributors. With the weather that Winnipeg enjoys, we are uniquely experienced to understand the need for quality in glazing, and we look to manufacturers to deliver. Consumers in this province want all the data and they do their homework. “Manitobans understand windows and they demand quality. This is why leading manufacturers keep coming forward with products that are very detail oriented,” says Sean Phillips, a sales rep with All Weather Windows, a 100% Canadian company currently celebrating its 30th year. It’s this spring 2008 | STYLE MANITOBA | 87
Because it is whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s inside your home that matters Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why we make windows that count. Our energy efficient windows will provide the very best comfort for your family and will save you money on your energy bills all year round. So you can concentrate on giving your family the things that matter most.
All Canadian made for all Canadian weather Visit www.allweatherwindows.com to find a dealer near you
All Weather Windows is a CSA Certified Manufacturer
Va n c o u v e r - K e l o w n a - Ed m o n t o n - R e d D e e r - C a l g a r y - L e t h b r i d g e - S a s k a t o o n - R e g i n a - W i n n i p e g - To ro n t o - H a l i f a x
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attention to detail that has enabled All Weather’s plants in Edmonton and Mississauga, and the products they produce, to earn the designation of being CSA (Canadian Standards Association) certified. “Product innovation is our thing. We have recently introduced many new products, including the HyDistinction aluminum clad PVC window that delivers durability and colour options, as well as revolutionary new windows like the Tritan window frame that improves energy efficiency over traditional window designs,” he notes. “All Weather Windows has been the recent recipient of the BC Region Home Builders Association Georgie Award for technical innovation for both their HyDistinction metal clad PVC and for the Tritan triple glazed PVC windows. With us, performance comes first, and performance means energy savings for homeowners.” Here, Phillips points to a homeowner who has a 2,000 square foot house in Winnipeg. The house has been losing energy thanks to older dual pane wooden windows. With an eye to saving money, as well as doing the right thing for the environment, the homeowner elects to install new triple pane
Photo courtesy of All Weather Windows
windows with argon gas inserts. Savings mount quickly to the tune of more than $300 a year in natural gas costs. This also represents a nine percent annual reduction in greenhouse gas or 1.09 acres of carbon absorbing forest. Adding Low-E glass and argon gas fill to a triple pane window can improve the energy savings even more. “There are few things you can do to your home that can achieve this type of yearly
saving,” Phillips says, adding that All Weather Window’s entire product line is Energy Star rated as well as CSA certified. “This gives our customers a huge amount of confidence.” Another major player in the market is JeldWen, a global player with 150 divisions and 20,000 employees worldwide. Here in Winnipeg they are seen as a good place to
Photo courtesy of Jeld-Wen Windows & Doors
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look for window solutions, thanks to their massive product range and broad capability. Jeld-Wen offers a window in virtually every style and configuration. “We see a lot of demand for PVC in the Winnipeg market,” says Jeff Ward, JeldWen’s Canadian Corporate Sales Manager. “PVC offers a cost effective durable solution that combines with glazing technology to create efficiency and great looking windows,” he remarks, noting that Jeld-Wen is well known for new product development and selection. For example, the company has introduced Ener-Smart 7000, a line that has married the latest technology with the simplicity of PVC. Features of the ES7000 include not only a multi-wall design that delivers excellent thermal properties, but hardware that is sealed to the vinyl for reduced air leakage; systems that provide a tighter sash seal; and Edgetech Super Spacer, a technology that offers incredible thermal efficiency where heat loss is minimized at the glass edge.
BLANCHARD LANDSCAPE DESIGN INC.
Jeff Blanchard Designer, Consultant, Contractor
204.488.0619 www.blancharddesign.ca
Glass Staircases Glass Shower Enclosures & Custom Mirror Walls
Further, Jeld-Wen has also introduced a new Low-E glass option called Low-E 366. This glass features three transparent microscopic layers of silver placed between layers of anti-reflective metal oxide coatings. According to Ward, these coatings block 95% of harmful UV rays and reduce window heat gain by 64%. In Winnipeg, homeowners can expect this product to lower energy costs by as much as 35%. “Homeowners need to consider the orientation of each window before selecting a product. For instance, the Low-E 366 product has excellent heat blockage, making them ideal for southern or west facing areas where solar heat might be oppressive. High performance Low-E insulating glass helps homes stay warmer in winter and cooler in the hot summer months. Overall, homeowners may find savings of 40%,” Ward says. He adds that currently, JeldWen is seeing about 20% of sales coming from the tri-pane sector where properties can see a climb to R8 insulation values if the install is handled well and the home is upgraded with proper insulation.
380 Osborne St. South | Tel: 475-2774 | Fax: 287-8016
“Any time you make a choice to help the environment, it’s a good choice,” notes Ward. “The great thing about new generation windows is that you really get it all. Yes, a good window reduces energy consumption and that helps the planet, but it also puts extra money in your pocket and makes your home more comfortable. How can you argue with this?” spring 2008 | STYLE MANITOBA | 91
Leading the way home... Introducing Phase 9, Stage 1
Featuring a selection of premium lots for the sophisticated home buyer.
for information on available lots contact the participating builders or Genstar
Bringing land to life
488-6537 www.genstar.com
• Qualico Homes - 233-2451 • Randall Homes - 253-1548 • Silverton Homes - 669-7400 • Ventura Homes - 669-2500
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is the third part of a cohesive development that offers versatility, great amenities and easy access in one of the fastest growing areas of Winnipeg,” notes Klein.
This spring, Genstar will introduce the latest phase of Amber Trails, a growing development that has become one of the top new home locations in North West Winnipeg. Behind its success is a community that has a strong focus on families and offers an attainable quality lifestyle. Developed by Genstar, a premium developer of master planned communities for more than 50 years, Amber Trails continues to grow, due to overwhelming demand for the affordable luxury that characterizes the community. “Our goal is to create a community that features a beautiful park-like setting with spacious lots and high quality, single family homes,” says Genstar’s Jerry Klein. “We feel that we have an excellent concept, and the response to Amber Trails is now far greater than anticipated. People from all walks of life, from young families to seniors, are building their new homes here.” When Genstar introduces Phase 9 of the development this spring, it will make available another 80 lots with a further 80 lots to be made available in the fall. The phase is located on the south west end of the community just north of Leila, and will complete development around the west side of a third lake that was constructed last year. New walkways will be featured as part of this phase, and will continue the system of paved trails and linear parks that have become a popular feature of the growing community, which already boasts over 700 homes.
various services,” he says. “Yet, when you’re at home in the midst of all the lakes, parks and quiet bays, you’d never know you’re only minutes from virtually any amenity you might require.” Once completed, Klein says Amber Trails will occupy about 400 acres, encompassing approximately 1,400 homes. As it matures, its scenic lakes, beautifully landscaped parks and extensive walkway system will combine with the quality housing to continually attract people to the community from all over Winnipeg.
The Wait is Over!
Last fall, Genstar Development completed municipal servicing of its first phase of Kildonan Green, the start of a new 100-acre community in West Transcona. Kildonan Green will be a full service development located off Devonshire Drive and Plessis Road in the city’s rapidly expanding northeastern quadrant. “The highly awaited community has over the last few months quietly started to “boom” as showhomes and over 25 homes have started construction,” says Genstar’s Jerry Klein. “Homebuyers from the adjacent communities and from all over the city have started to invest in this new upscale development which will prove to be one of Transcona’s most sought after communities.” . Genstar already has a proven track record in this sector of the city and has achieved significant success with Kildonan Meadows to the south and Lakeside Meadows to the east. “This
Kildonan Green will feature approximately 400 lots once completed. Phase I has 90 properties that were released last year, with a further 80 to be serviced for the fall. According to Klein, lot sizes will be ample with frontages averaging between 40 and 46 feet wide. “Some lots have back lanes, a design element that allows builders to place garages away from homes in a feature that was popular in older communities. Genstar recently completed Rougeau Gardens, just south of Regent Ave. and these models proved to be very successful with homebuyers. Even interior home designs recall some of the city’s more traditional residences in River Heights and Crescentwood. Feature builders such as A&S Homes, Kensington Homes, Randall Homes, Qualico Homes and Ventura Homes have been able to provide a range of designs, including those that offer a retro appearance with all the contemporary elements currently in demand.” As new streets are being installed in the community, Genstar is also working with the city of Winnipeg to complete a twinning of Plessis Road to improve access to the site. “Showhomes are now available for viewing and Genstar invites everyone to view the new display properties entered in the Spring 2008 Parade of Homes.”
Another part of Amber Trails’ success story rests with the builders that have been constructing the community’s homes, all of which are known for their innovative designs and high construction standards. “It goes without saying that we’re committed to using the city’s finest builders, such as Randall Homes, Ventura Custom Homes, Silverton Homes and Sterling Homes, as well as Gino’s Homes, Maric Homes and A&S Homes,” notes Klein. According to Klein, location is another intangible that Amber Trails has going for it. “Located close to McPhillips Street north of Leila Avenue, Amber Trails offers easy access to public transit and is only minutes away from shopping malls, restaurants, entertainment and spring 2008 | STYLE MANITOBA | 93
N E I G H BOU R H OODS
Destination Lifestyle
He comments that housing will be predominantly upscale single family. “There will also be a pleasing assortment of attached homes and townhomes, both with double attached garages, as well as a seniors assisted living project and age 55 plus condominium apartments to be developed,” he adds. Klein describes the project as also incorporating many interesting attributes, such as entry monuments, fencing and extensive landscaping in the five-acre central park. “There will also be a seven-acre retail and commercial village that will offer food stores and other must-have retailers and services,” says Klein, remarking that the commercial village centre will provide additional services to the other two adjacent communities.
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N E I G H BOU R H OODS
Linking Life & Leisure Undulating hills are framed by blue water strategically streaming around greens and homes. A cool breeze plays on the grass, luring a golf ball to roll into a cup. Such is the experience of Crow Wing Golf & Residential Community in Niverville, 20 minutes south of Winnipeg. The jewel of this unique community lies in the links, which are currently underway. Designed by Graham Cooke and Wayne Carleton of Cooke Carleton International in the true fashion of traditional links, the combination of tall grass, rolling fairways and Scottish-styled sodwalled bunkers combine with Manitoba’s winds to create an experience similar to the famous Scottish open layouts. Kerry Church is President of Crow Wing Developments. “The land on which Crow Wing is situated has been in our family since 1876,” he says. “It’s been farmed until recently, when we decided to develop a beautiful area for others to enjoy and to continue to contribute to the community of Niverville.” Kerry is excited about the residential aspect of Crow Wing. “The development is adjacent to Niverville’s Community Centre and Park, which offer family recreation,” he remarks. He particularly loves the way the lots are designed in a unique, integrated way with the golf course to incorporate convenience with an exceptional visual experience. Even the streets of the residential development pay homage
to famous Scottish course names such as St. Andrews and Carnoustie. Although there are still upscale single-family lots available in Phase One, 55 of the 76 first phase lots are already sold. “Our first full year of house construction was 2007, with the first showhomes available for viewing during the Spring and Fall 2007 Parade of Homes.” Each lot either backs onto the course or onto a lake separating it from the course, giving all residents gorgeous views of the links. Lake lots have the additional benefit of walkout basements, which maximize the home’s liveable area. “The river and lake system is an integrated system. All water that falls on both the golf and residential areas is controlled, so we retain the water both for irrigation and recycling,” Kerry says. “In fact, with the lakes, we’ve created our own wetland so to speak, a new habitat for wildlife out of an open farm field!” Niverville is a vibrant and growing community, currently home to 3,000 people. Kerry encourages people to visit the site. “The first nine holes of the course will be seeded this spring, new homes are springing up daily in Phase One, and Phase Two will be under construction this summer. The best thing interested parties can do is to visit the site, and see how unique and remarkable this development is to Manitoba’s marketplace!”
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N E I G H BOU R H OODS
A Natural Beauty The Oaks continue to grow. One of Winnipeg’s most exciting new developments, The Oaks is a three phase planned community located along the banks of the Assiniboine River just west of the Perimeter off Portage Ave. Not your average estate tract, it offers all the ambiance of an upper tier mature neighbourhood thanks to the canopy of old growth oak, poplar and elms and a 12 - acre forest preserve. This is in addition to beautiful river vistas and a meandering streetscape that delivers the promise of urban proximity where The Oaks is only 15 minutes from Portage & Main and the natural beauty of a stunning forest retreat. “We tried to maintain the trees on the right of way,” explains developer Scott Stephanson, Vice President of Longboat Development. “The plan is to have mature trees on the boulevards just like in more established developments.” Currently developers are readying Phase III, the final stage of construction that will begin this March. According to project co-ordinator Ryder Needham, services are in for the 41 interior lots in the last phase and roads will be complete by summer 2008. “Of the 41 lots we have, many back onto the forest preserve and park space, and have excellent views of the stunning natural setting,” he says, adding that the total compliment of lots at The Oaks is 122, with sites exceeding a half acre in size, making them ideal for spacious large footprint bungalows.
According to Needham, the location is also ideal for condominium development. Currently, the plan offers nine higher end condos and 23 smaller units. Sizes range from 1,400 to 1,600 square feet of well-appointed living space in the smaller units, and 1,600 to 2,000 square feet in the larger condos. A 1,750 square foot showhome is currently under construction to help drive sales of the units. What’s exciting prospective buyers? Certainly the natural beauty of the site is a major drawing card. To enhance this further, the developer engaged Native Plant Solutions, a division of Ducks Unlimited Canada, to apply construction methods and landscaping techniques consistent with a low impact development approach. Part of the plan included reserving 12 acres of urban forest consisting of a mature stand of oak, elm, ash and poplar. The developer worked closely with surveyors and engineers superimposing the community design on an aerial map to respect the existing topography and vegetation. “We worked through the winter to construct paths through the forest that link all the cul de sacs, the linear parkway and the ponds,” says Needham. “The Oaks is really a hidden treasure,” says Stephanson. “It offers so much to the homeowner in terms of location, lifestyle and investment. We haven’t seen a development of this calibre in Winnipeg for 25 years, and the interest demonstrated by the public indicates people have been waiting. Now the wait is over.” spring 2008 | STYLE MANITOBA | 97
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N E I G H BOU R H OODS
Building Your Dreams
Manitobans can expect to be astonished once again by the two beautiful showhomes Maric Homes will have on display during the 2008 Spring Parade. The 2,395 square-foot open concept bungalow at 34 Southlands Drive in Pritchard Farm Southlands emphasizes its country sensibility with a natural exterior look. Inside, thanks to Steve Maric’s scrupulous eye for balancing sweeping lines with decorative details, arched ceiling bulkheads and a curved wall combine flawlessly with wood floating shelves in the den and tiled niches in the foyer. The home is tastefully finished in warm espresso, caramel, plums and creams. Just like the Pritchard Farm Southlands showhome, the open concept bungalow at 64 Massalia Drive in Amber trails has a fully finished walkout lower level. Maric Homes always strives to capitalize on the natural beauty and building opportunities afforded by developments that offer lake and riverside lots. Involved in nine developments across and even beyond the city limits, the builder can offer the customer a wide range options. “It allows us to better help our customers analyze what they want from the lot, the development and the home they will live in,” says Steve Maric, who founded Maric Homes with his wife Cathie 35 years ago.
For the Marics, custom building isn’t only about constructing a house; it’s about building someone’s home and dream. Every home is built with the vision, imagination and uncompromising excellence to meet a family’s unique needs. Through their combined expertise, every member of the Maric team is always looking for new ways to push the limits of homebuilding by incorporating new but proven technologies, processes and materials. Maric Homes prides itself on being at the cutting edge of design, innovation and craftsmanship.
“But we never focus exclusively on one element or one trend,” emphasizes Steve Maric. “The focus is on the entire package, the complete vision—a vision that works for you.” Attention to every detail in every room is what makes every Maric Home both functional and inviting. Over the years the builder’s motto has developed into “we build to astonish.” The new Maric display homes certainly attest to its veracity.
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Building memories.... Time after time, after time
At Parkhill Homes we build in prestigious locations within Winnipeg and surrounding areas. Parkhill Homes would be pleased to construct your dream home on your lot or ours. For more information on our personalized custom building service, please call today. Marketed by
For more information call 982-2930 www.parkhillhomes.ca
Lori Thorsteinson
946-2236
Loren reaLty
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McDiarmid Lumber
For more than 20 years, Winnipeg’s Parkhill Homes has earned an excellent reputation as a builder of choice for Manitobans taking the plunge on a distinctive custom residence. Over the years, the company has erected well over 1,000 properties in established neighbourhoods, as well as in signature new developments in Winnipeg, and centres such as Niverville, La Salle, Headingley, Oakbank, and others. Their customers even come back to ask for additions and renovations, an aspect that has gradually evolved into a new direction for the firm. “We have worked to establish a very personalized service and offer all aspects of design build,” says Parkhill Homes’ sales manager Lori Thorsteinson. “This includes interior design, estimating, and drafting. We have a lot of inhouse capability that keeps a project on track. This is certainly a key feature that has brought us to where we are today. We realize that while we build a number of homes through the year, our customer only cares about one home – theirs.” To highlight their work, Parkhill Homes will offer a showhome this spring in Royalwood at 11 East Oak Drive. According to Thorsteinson, the display home will offer 2,045 square feet of easy to approach luxury. Inside the spacious bungalow, visitors will find a three-bedroom modern design that offers features such as an all-season sunroom, double-sided fireplace, maple cabinets and hardwoods, as well as granite counters and heated ceramic flooring.
N E I G H BOU R H OODS
Building Advantage
“We are really known for the little touches that raise the level of a design well above the others. For example, we might place obscure glazing on French doors or offer cultured stone. Also, we work to set the bar higher by relying on solid hardwoods and quality products that create a home that lasts and gives troublefree satisfaction,” she explains, pointing to Royalwood as a location where their product has been very popular. Developed by Ladco in the southeast sector of Winnipeg, Royalwood is characterized by large lakes that add a relaxing dimension to the community. “With the lake lots, we are able to offer designs that have basement walkouts directly to shorelines. Our next showhome in the community will feature this element,” she says, commenting that the lakes and lighted walkways at Royalwood deliver a decidedly park-like feeling. “Royalwood is situated close to the Seine River and residents enjoy a lot of forest area,” she notes, adding that the need for nature is also helping them with business in locations such as The Oaks, where there is also a lot of attention to wetland development. And indeed, it is this attention to the details that has homebuyers looking closely at Parkhill and the neighbourhoods they call home.
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gathering places. Now add the latest ideas in community planning and landscape architecture, mixed with the warm, friendly feeling of a small town. That’s the promise of Sage Creek.
SHOW HOMES OPEN! Monday to Thursday – 3:00 to 8:00 pm Friday – by appointment only Saturday and Sunday – 12:00 to 5:00 pm
A place where life can be sweeter — at the end of your work day or the start of your retirement.
FOR MORE INFORMATION: (204) 989-3260
www.sagecreek.ca 102 | STYLE MANITOBA | spring 2008
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N E I G H BOU R H OODS
Fresh Approach Winnipeg’s Qualico Developments is building much more than just a standard housing project with its latest development, Sage Creek. Located close to Bishop Grandin and Lagimodiere Boulevards, Sage Creek will be the city’s first major new neighbourhood in more than 15 years. Upon completion, it will be home to roughly 4,000 new residences situated amid a beautiful natural setting on an 800-acre parcel of land in south St. Boniface. The new development is all about family, nature and community. For example, design elements engender a strong sense of neighbourhood with a Village Centre, an easily accessed network of pedestrian/cycle trails and a linear open space/ wetland system that will offer plenty of visual breathing room. Towards this end, Qualico and design experts at Native Plant Solutions are building wetlands complete with native grasses, shrubs and trees to create a setting that is both ecologically sound and low maintenance. “We have completed the residential component to Phase I and are now digging the lakes and readying the site for Phases II and III,” says Eric Vogan, Land Development Manager for Qualico Developments, a firm that has been active in residential development since 1951.
“In Phase I we have delivered 300 lots. This includes large lake lots and cozy lane lots, plus four condo projects to offer a full variety of housing,” he notes, remarking that sales have been very strong for Sage Creek properties with residents already moved in to completed homes. The most recent area within Phase I, Wood Sage Crescent, will offer larger lots and lakefront homes. Hearth Homes, Arlt Homes and Foxridge Homes are now building showhomes on Wood Sage Crescent. Vogan invites those looking for a new house to stop by the showhomes on Red Moon Road. “Now in Phase II, we will offer another 300 home sites with more opportunity for walkout lower level homes on the park and the lake.” Vogan reports that the new phase offers an exciting array of homes suitable for a variety of lifestyles. “There are also townhomes available, an aspect that has proven to mesh perfectly with the single family housing in Sage Creek.”
Vogan describes Sage Creek as a complete community with empty nesters living alongside young and longer established families. There will be single detached residences as well as multi-family dwellings, and a full slate of commercial services, such as grocery and drug stores, along with other retail and service businesses. “This represents a fresh approach to development. Really, it’s the first opportunity in many years to deliver the latest ideas and thinking on community development. In the past, it was all about front driveways and double car garages. Now we have moved forward to a more cohesive design that offers elements that will create a community that will endure.”
Vogan adds here that the Village Centre will soon be taking shape as interest develops from key commercial tenants. In fact, construction is underway on a 60,000 square foot head office in the Village Centre. It is expected that some employees will be attracted to new homes in the community in a scenario where people can easily walk to their jobs.
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PHASE 1 NOW AVAILABLE
in Stonewall StoneRidge Meadows will be the newest chapter in Genstar Development Companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s long standing tradition of creating distinctive communities in superior locations.
Bringing Land to Life
For information on available lots contact the participating builders or GENSTAR DEVELOPMENT COMPANY #USTOM (OMES
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488-6537 visit our website: www.genstar.com
N E I G H BOU R H OODS
Growing Room By Kelly Gray
The opportunity for a quiet rural lifestyle amid quality residences in a wellplanned historic community exists just 15 minutes north of Winnipeg in the town of Stonewall. Boasting a population of 4,000 people, Stonewall really has it all - great schools, ample shopping, and a solid community that has homebuyers looking hard at Stone Ridge Meadows, a multi-phase upscale development created by Genstar, a developer with decades of experience and list of projects that are among the most prestigious in the country. Stone Ridge Meadows is conveniently located in the northwest corner of Stonewall, adjacent to an existing upscale development and within walking distance of Quarry Park, a facility that features a manmade lake and beach, and walking trails. A new interpretive centre is also planned to replace the one that was destroyed by fire last November. The landscaped park also displays the site’s history of limestone production.
April,” says Jerry Klein, Genstar’s Winnipegbased Vice President. He suggests that the development will be attractive to many of the most distinguished custom homebuilders in Manitoba. In fact, a number of Manitoba’s leading builders have announced plans to introduce display properties to the community for the coming Manitoba Home Builders’ Association Fall Parade of Homes. Indeed, this is the plan for Discovery Homes. Currently they are active in the Stonewall area where they have been building 1,100 to 1,600 square foot homes. In the Stone Ridge Meadows development, the plan is for more substantial residences in keeping with the upper tier character of the community.
“We see this as an opportunity to show Stonewall the other side of our capability with large custom executive homes,” says Gordon Gray, General Manager of Discovery Homes. He reports they will offer designs such as a 2,700 square foot custom bungalow and a 2,400 square foot two storey that was a Bronze Award winner at the recent Parade of Homes. “The lots work well with these designs because of the larger country sized footprints that deliver wide frontage and good depth. This means privacy and room to grow a family,” he remarks. Another premier builder that will join the group at Stone Ridge Meadows is Warkentin Homes. This company is one of the most experienced
Lots at Stone Ridge Meadows will range from 65 to 75 feet in width and from 125 to 150 feet in depth. Builders will be required to site homes so as to conserve as many trees as possible. As well, the developer plans to capitalize on the inherent greenery of the area by creating a picturesque entranceway to the community that is lined with two rows of mature trees. “Servicing of the first phase has started and the first 50 lots will be ready by the end of spring 2008 | STYLE MANITOBA | 105
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in the area with a number of projects that date back 20 years in both Stonewall and the nearby town of Stony Mountain.
According to Snow, they will roll out new features in their already well-developed design portfolio. “We are known as a company that delivers the little touches that raise a property from a house to a home. This means attention to details like custom entertainment units and kitchens designed with function and style in mind,” she notes. Winnipeg-based A&S Homes will also present its custom built options at Stone Ridge Meadows. A company with a considerable reputation for quality and professionalism, A&S will bring its ‘A’ game to the new Stonewall development with innovative designs and a showhome at the fall Parade of Homes.
N E I G H BOU R H OODS
“We will be coming forward with a range of offerings in Stone Ridge Meadows that will showcase our award-winning designs,” says Warkentin Homes Vice President Melanie Snow, adding that they will have a showhome ready for the Fall Parade of Homes. “The lots are ample and allow for things like side entryways and extra space to hold all your toys, like snowmobiles and ATVs,” she notes, adding that the lot dimensions mean garages aren’t as prominent on streetscapes, but can still be large enough to handle the needs of a country lifestyle.
“The subdivision looks fabulous,” says Frank Spezzano, Sales Manager at A&S Homes, a family business started by his father and uncle more than 30 years ago that has since become a leader in the industry. “All the properties have trees or water that divide them from neighbours. We are a good fit for this development because we are a high-end builder with the capability to do
more than just a couple of homes. As well, our tradespeople are some of the most experienced around, many with well in excess of 20 years experience in their trade. When we hand over the keys, buyers of an A&S Home can turn the lock and walk into their new home without any unpleasant surprises,” he says, concluding that a decision to buy in Stone Ridge Meadows is really about lifestyle and personal enjoyment.
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well designed | well built | well finished
We Build Beautiful Homes You can see that from the picture. What might be less obvious is the devoted attention to detail and fine craftsmanship displayed in every square foot of this home - and every A&S Home.
Visit one of our show homes today - and see for yourself. 108 | STYLE MANITOBA | spring 2008
Call Today 204.256.0863
www.ashomes.ca
Photography by Artistic Impressions
Inspired Designs N E I G H BOU R H OODS
With six different display homes in different developments across the city and beyond, A&S Homes is gearing up for a strong showing in the Spring Parade of Homes. The large number allows the prestigious builder to showcase a wide variety of styles and features. “We paid particular attention to the home designs,” notes Vince Spezzano at A&S. “I think people going through will be impressed with what they see.” Over the years, A&S has built a well-earned reputation as a leader in custom homes. The spring parade will confirm this position once again. Every home highlights a different feature in the builder’s repertoire of inspired designs and quality fine finishing. What never changes, however, is the superior level of craftsmanship evident in each and every showhome constructed by A&S. It’s a commitment that is not only on display during the spring event, but also a promise that the builder fulfills when building a home for each and every one of their customers. A&S has standardized several features, including silent floor systems and Delta MS waterproof foundation membrane. “Several of our innovations have involved structural components,” says Spezzano. “They’re not necessarily visible but they’re things that add intrinsic value to homes, and we take a lot of pride in that.” Over the 30 years that A&S has been building homes for the Manitoba market, the builder has always kept abreast of new technology for homes that are as functional as they are beautiful. It is not surprising then, that every year the builder is the recipient of numerous accolades and awards. But this doesn’t mean the company is sitting on its laurels. As will be evident to all those who peruse an A&S showhome, the builder is continuously striving for perfection. What a visit to the display home might not reveal, however, is the commitment of the A&S team to its clientele. From the start, A&S Homes has been dedicated to providing exceptional customer service, from that initial meeting to attentive after-home care. From modest homes to mansions, the team at A&S builds every home as if it were their own.
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Sound Relationships Make Strong Foundations 110 | STYLE MANITOBA | spring 2008
As Winnipeg’s new Waverley West development takes shape, Discovery Homes will be there with all the attention to detail, personal service, and new home designs that have made them one of Winnipeg’s hottest new builders. No small undertaking, Waverley West will be Winnipeg’s largest new subdivision with more than 11,000 new homes rising up in the southwest quadrant. Here, city planners are hoping developers take up the challenge with home designs that seek to counter the large tract “just-dropped-from-space” feeling a project of this size can engender. “The architects are looking for homes that have an older, more traditional style built with the latest in materials,” says Discovery Homes’ general manager Gordon Gray. “This is something we are already doing and we have developed a lot of expertise with these types of designs. The goal is to create a neighbourhood that blends together and emulates the best of the past, like Wolseley or Tuxedo. However, once you step through the front doors, the homes sparkle with open plan kitchens, stunning great rooms,
and features that are in demand by today’s discerning clientele.” One of the main core values of Discovery Homes is to develop strong client relationships, one customer at a time. A case in point is the story of the construction of a 2,700 square foot bungalow in Linden Woods in 2007. Discovery Homes was contacted by Ravinder Garcha, whose late husband Sukhdev Garcha had planned to build their dream home just prior to suffering a tragic accidental fall that took his life. In Mrs. Garcha’s own words, “Mr. Gray and his team worked closely with our architect, Giovanni Geremia and myself, to complete my husband’s dream for his children. We are all grateful for his sensitivity and his professionalism, and we are forever grateful for his team’s assistance, helping us undertake a huge project at a very stressful time in our lives.” Discovery’s Design Consultant Doris Rist, together with Office Administrator Kerri Rist, and Assistant Manager Joshua Rist, all went the extra mile to make Mrs. Garcha’s project a success on many levels, says manager Gray.
showcase of homes
Dream Builder
Discovery’s extended team of over 80 suppliers and trades people continue to raise the roofs on projects in Winnipeg, Stonewall, La Salle, and Beausejour. Discovery’s most recent announcement has been its participation with Genstar Developments in the exciting StoneRidge Meadows neighbourhood in Stonewall. This brand new upscale development 20 minutes northwest of the airport is a perfect complement to the Waverley West lifestyle designs for which Discovery is gaining a stellar reputation. Concluding, Gray offers, “Our goal is to provide a service that takes the tension out of home design and purchase. People bring their dreams to us and we work hard to make those dreams a reality.”
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Where Excellence is the Tradition Building in Winnipeg, Stonewall, and the surrounding area for over 25 years
Building a new home is an exciting time. We pride ourselves in making this time as comfortable as possible...
667-1297
www.warkentinhomes.com Visit our showhome at 107 McBeth Grove in McBeth Landing. Preferred Suppliers to FLOOR & WINDOW Warkentin FASHIONS 286 Main St. â&#x20AC;˘ Stonewall â&#x20AC;˘ 467-2903 Homes 112 | STYLE MANITOBA | spring 2008
Quality Selection & Service Since 1990
Hot on the heels of its Gold-Medal winning showhome from last fall’s Parade of Homes, Warkentin Homes has another treat ready for the Spring Parade. The 1,742-square-foot bungalow at 107 McBeth Grove will include such features as countertops in quartz and maple cabinets in a Portobello stain, Kitchen Craft’s newest colour.
McBeth offers the kind of possibilities the builder enjoys. Warkentin prides itself in selecting lots and developments that will complement their custom designs. They are well known for their achievements in Pritchard Farm Properties and Pritchard Farm Southlands, as well as in Stony Mountain and Stonewall, where they first built up their business of 25 years.
The display home is located in McBeth Landing, an attractive development nestled between historic McBeth Park and Red River Boulevard. River views, mature trees and ample green space make this area a true paradise. Families and empty nesters alike will enjoy being within walking distance of a natural forest on one hand and all the amenities on the other.
“StoneRidge Meadows will cater to those professionals in Winnipeg who want to be close to the city but live a country lifestyle,” says Melanie Snow, Vice-President at Warkentin, adding that the treed setting and large lots offer exciting possibilities. “You can do a house that’s a lot wider with potential for a side garage so your house is the main attraction.”
Warkentin Homes and McBeth Landing are a perfect fit. A smaller scale development with a variety of lot choices - riverfront included -
Warkentin’s focus is on originality, functionality and detail inside and out. Every customer is accorded design time with the company’s
award-winning interior designer. “We want to give customers as effortless and enjoyable an experience as possible,” says Snow. “We really try to be customer-focused so that each design is personalized.”
showcase of homes
Personalized Design
wheelchair accessibility. “Age in place enables seniors to stay in their home as long as possible,” Snow points out. Whatever the design, combining quality construction with competitive pricing is a Warkentin guarantee.
This includes offering ‘age in place’ options, such as easy-entry/exit bathtubs and preparing a home for
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Celebrating 40 Years of Quality.
relax... it’s built by...
Please visit us at the following Display homes… Royalwood 29 Eastoak Drive Cal Swan @ 223-3322 Royalwood 27 Waterton Drive Jim Wall @ 955-9441 Amber Trails 36 Massalia Drive Jeff Brown @ 997-5333
www.ginoshomes.ca
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SINCE 1968 Rivers Edge Estates 3 S Taylor Cove 114 Jeff Brown @ 997-5333
Preferred Suppliers
Forty Years Strong
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Gino’s Homes enters the Spring Parade on its 40th birthday with four distinctive and outstanding showhomes. From a $300,000 bungalow to a $1.1 million mansion, the offerings encompass every lifestyle and budget. Those looking for inspiration should have Royalwood’s 27 Waterton on their itinerary. “Anyone leaving their home from March 8 to 23 must see this house,” says Jeff Brown, sales agent for Gino’s Homes. “It truly proves that anything that can be imagined can be built.” New innovation is a key part of the builder’s philosophy and this home raises the bar. A second floor laundry room, a 12’x12’ pantry, quartz countertops, a fully finished heated garage, a raised hot-tub in the master bedroom and an expandable dining room—these are only a sampling of the surprises awaiting visitors to the display home. The walkout lower level takes full advantage of the lakeside setting. With lakes and forest areas blending with parks and fountains, Royalwood is a suburban masterpiece. It’s not hard to see why this neighbourhood is almost sold out.
Main Street, River’s Edge Estates is a single entrance and exit community with sprawling lots averaging 75 x 200 feet. Accordingly, 3S Taylor Cove is a spacious bungalow with birch hardwood floors, a triple garage and a master suite completely separated from the other bedrooms. This new showhome is located across from Gino’s Gold Award Winner from the Spring 2007 Parade.
Nearby, the bungalow at 29 East Oak Drive in Royalwood features soaring ceilings, abundant windows, granite countertops and maple floors. “Don’t forget to check out the amazing closets and pantries,” says Brown. He adds that Gino’s superior craftsmanship and design are also on display in River’s Edge and Amber Trails. Located only five minutes north of the perimeter on 115
Meanwhile, at 36 Massalia Drive in Amber Trails, a 16-foot window in the deluxe master bedroom captures a view of the entire lake. Again, Gino’s Homes has capitalized on the advantages of a development that also includes walking trails, parks and a new school. Close to shopping, transit and the hospital, Amber Trails is truly north Winnipeg’s premiere development.
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Building your custom dream home?
Imagine it Build it knowledge design reliability 559 St. Mary’s Road
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•
Ph. 204.261.8728
•
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www.kdrdesignbuilders.com
An open concept design with a walkout basement and 12-foot ceilings provides the perfect contemporary home for the long time residents of this property. After spending 13 years at the same location, owners of the original 2,200 square foot house built in the sixties realized it no longer met their needs. But they loved the neighbourhood and the beautiful view of the golf course across the street. Moving was not an option. Initially, they approached KDR Design Builders for renovations but soon realized the changes would be so extensive that it was better to build new. The builder took charge of taking down the old house, creating the new design and then building it. The result surpassed all expectations. Despite the fact that the yard is not sloped or sited on the bank of a lake or river, KDR created a walkout lower level by using an ingenious drainage system. The result is another 3,000 square feet of naturally lit living space. Large windows overlook flowerbeds and a walkway winding from the back to the front, where it connects with the ring driveway. KDR looked after everything, from the stamped concrete driveway, maintenance-free deck and landscaping, to the four-car garage, acrylic stucco and cultured ledgestone that wraps around the exterior. The entire design is balanced, congruent and well-proportioned. For instance, to create a sense of continuity the builder used the same ledgestone on one of the great room walls and installed a tempered glass railing on the deck to preserve an unobstructed view from the large windows. Meanwhile, the entertainment unit sports the same dark wood as the kitchen.
The custom stain on the maple cabinets provides just the right contrast to the hardwood floor and the millwork throughout the house. A tile backsplash completes the look. To maintain unity in the dĂŠcor, KDR inserted the same tile into the hardwood of the foyer. This approach also enabled the builder to extend the tiles beyond the first wall break in a pattern that reflects the curve of the open staircase to the lower level. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an elegant flow to the entire space. Near the entrance, a curved wall of etched glass provides a sense of privacy while still opening the dining room to the rest of the house. Thus, the kitchen captures a view not only of the backyard and the golf course, but also of the stunning circular stacked bulkhead in the dining room. The kitchen projects its own sophisticated presence. Shaped to work seamlessly with the layout, a granite island extends the eating area with a spacious breakfast nook. Incorporating slam-resistant drawers, dual ovens, a gas cooktop and a cappuccino-maker, the cabinetry stretches all the way up to the bulkhead girding the 12-foot ceilings.
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KDR paid close attention to proportion and scale. Throughout the house eight-foot commercial doors complement the grandeur of the ceiling height. For the master suite, the builder used a custom spa door which not only makes the hallway brighter but hints at the luxuries beyond. These include a spacious European-style steam shower in the ensuite. Unlike many homes, where the lower level is a downgraded version of the main floor, this house maintains the same level of quality through and through. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a steam shower and body spray in the guest bathroom down below. A spacious bar area with ceramic tile and granite countertops is perfect for entertaining. And thanks to a swivel system, the television is accessible even to those in the open exercise area. Nothing was overlooked. From top to bottom, this is truly a home for sophisticated living - now and for a lifetime.
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showcase of homes
Timeless Sophistication
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Rising to the Challenge
“We tend to get involved in building projects that are larger and more challenging,” notes Lori Veenstra, one of the principals at Pine Creek Homes. The company has undertaken several projects that other builders wouldn’t tackle, along with a number that involved a second storey or a structural issue. Here, the owners wanted to remain in their existing location but they also wanted more space. Pine Creek removed an existing garage and breezeway and added just over 1,000 square feet of living space. At the same time, more than 500 square feet of existing space was renovated. Afterwards, the builder added a new garage and completely refinished the exterior with stone, as well as cladding all the windows with red trim. To increase the energy efficiency of the house, Pine Creek used LOGIX Insulated Concrete Form for the
exterior walls. Besides providing a better sound barrier to outside noise, the walls are warm to the touch.
a bow window to the eating area. Both the kitchen and adjacent sitting room with fireplace were fully renovated.
Under the interior tile floors, the new in-floor radiant heating system also makes the home more comfortable. Pine Creek managed to increase the overall warmth factor despite adding plenty of glass to the design. In the kitchen, the builder bumped out the space and added
Like the eating area, the newly added great room also takes advantage of the magnificent view into the yard. The large bank of windows is complemented by a granite fireplace and built-in entertainment unit. Beyond the great room are a new study, a new 119
bathroom and a large new mudroom adjacent to the garage. “When you’ve got a great property and you want to stay there, an addition or renovation is definitely something to consider,” says Veenstra. And with experience in conventional construction that goes back 30 years, Pine Creek Homes definitely has the technical and structural expertise to make it happen.
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Renowned for its superb timber frame construction, Pine Creek Homes also offers all the expertise of a full-service builder, including additions and renovations. In fact, the builder has completed a number of challenging additions and renovations over the years.
showcase of homes
Attention to Detail Always striving to incorporate new proven products into their construction, Milne Homes is one of the more active Power Smart builders in this province. “A lot of our customers on larger pieces of property are looking at geothermal heating,” notes Doug Milne, who founded the company in 1991 with his wife Janet. The end product is a comfortable home and a reduction in fuel bills, all features that bode well for the long-term. At the same time, to increase a home’s R-value, Milne Homes has adopted some of the latest insulating techniques, such as foam spraying between the floor joists, as well as Spider blowin insulation on basement walls for a R-24 rating. Other features the builder is also incorporating to increase energy efficiency include fluorescent light bulbs, low flow showerheads, energy efficient tri-pane windows - Low-E with argon gas - and electronic ignitions on fireplaces instead of pilot lights. Now entering into their third decade of custom home building, Milne Homes is already ahead of the wave. Renowned for his attention to even the smallest details, Doug Milne is proving that nothing in his homes is overlooked. He credits his dedicated group of craftspeople for continuing to make this goal a reality.
MILNE HOMES Dedicated to Excellence
Telephone (204) 654-1424 Email: MilneHomes@mts.net Visit our web site: www.milnehomes.ca 120 | STYLE MANITOBA | spring 2008
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Urban Renaissance By Christine Hanlon Photography: Michael Roberts
An exciting new concept in urban living is unfolding in downtown Winnipeg. Imagine living in the heart of the city in a custom condominium that not only overlooks a park, but also combines an airy contemporary décor with eco-friendly design. Within walking distance are all the necessities of everyday living, plus the full richness of Winnipeg’s vibrant art community. Add a rooftop garden, an abundance of natural light and spaces that span the entire building with dramatic views of treetops on one side and the cityscape on the other and voilà – it’s possible to have it all. Thanks to the vision of the Centre Venture Development Corporation, Ship Street Developments and Prairie Architects Inc., this concept is not merely a dream. It has now become a reality. Historically inspired brick combines form and colour with contemporary glass on the façade of Ship Street Village. 122 | STYLE MANITOBA | spring 2008
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Dining Room, etc: Light fixtures and furnishing such as the bar stools and great room sofa were all sourced from form design center.
A floating staircase leads to a mezzanine level where the owners can relax while enjoying the view of Stephen Juba Park.
In 2005, the Ship Street Village was one of four winning submissions selected by Centre Venture in response to the downtown development agency’s request for proposals to develop parcels of land on Waterfront Drive. Prairie Architects designed the multi-use complex for the winning entry submitted by Ship Street Developments, a joint venture between Freedom Developments Ltd. and Streetside Development Corporation, a member of the Qualico Group of Companies. By the time the project broke ground a year later, 75 percent of the residential-commercial complex had already been sold. Among the pioneer residents are the owners of this stunning condominium, its interior designed by Design Profile’s Susan Rea. “They very much wanted to reduce their carbon footprint by living downtown,” explains the Interior Designer. “They walk everywhere and wanted to do as many of the activities of everyday life on foot as possible.” 123
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Natural zebrawood accents the cherry wood cabinetry and u-shaped island. Cameo Woodwork also developed the matching stain colours. Susan Rea was hired by the couple to design the interior of their condominium within the building designed by Prairie Architects. The architect wanted to create a complex that would combine a three-storey condominium with retail and an entrance at grade. “We wanted to create live/work spaces that animated the street and started to create a dynamic new urban neighbourhood in the Exchange District,” notes Dudley Thompson, Principal with Prairie Architects. “What we wanted to do was introduce a new cosmopolitan urban form to Winnipeg.” Another aspect of the vision involved incorporating standards for environmentally sustainable construction set out by the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System, sponsored by the Canadian Green Building Council. Accordingly, in each condominium every level spans the entire length of the building to facilitate flow-through ventilation. Radiant in-floor heating maximizes energy efficiency that is retained in the thermal mass of the concrete floors. Large ceiling-to-floor windows flood each condominium with an abundance of natural light augmented by sail-like south-facing sun scoops on the roof. Besides the double wall ovens and the refrigerator with its integrated door, Coast Appliances also supplied two dual zone wine coolers that allow storage of both reds and whites at just the right temperature for serving. Properly canted racks also keep the corks moist. 125
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While these features are standard to each of the eight units, Prairie Architects wanted to create a shell and work with the owners of each residential space to customize certain aspects of their condominium design. For instance, the owners of this condominium wanted a two-storey open atrium between the top two levels. “These were the kinds of things individual unit owners could select,” says Thompson. “We wanted to be as flexible and fluid as possible.” It was then up to each owner to develop the interior space. In this condominium, the owners emphasized the need to maintain the open views along with the quality of light. “Energy efficiency was equally important to them,” says Rea. To address this issue, energy efficient lighting on dimmers was used throughout. Controlled by timers, automated translucent blinds from Kesay block the sun’s heat at certain times of the day without ever obstructing the view.
In the master suite, Cameo Woodworks used zebrawood to construct the built-in headboard, night tables and bed frame, as well as the vanity in the ensuite.
Kitchen & Bath Classics supplied square Liano sinks by Caroma and angular Atrio fixtures from Grohe to lend the ensuite a crisp contemporary look.
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In fact, preserving the view was so important to the owners that Rea designed a “floating” staircase. “We had to have the stairs in the centre because of the structure of the space, but didn’t want them to block the view,” she explains.
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Creating Sustainable Futures
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Feature walls, childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rooms, dioramas & more Mural Artist: Mandy van Leeuwen Call 229-6719 Email: mandyvanleeuwen@hotmail.com
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Design Profile specified sliding glass doors between the bedroom and the ensuite to strike just the right balance of privacy, spectacular view and natural light. “The stairs are essentially a structural steel framework with the glass contoured to follow the saw tooth shape of the stairs,” says Bill Black, owner of Creative Spaces Ltd., the general contractor responsible for the outfitting and coordinating of the condominium’s interior space. “This was a challenging project, as we had to incorporate a complex residential design into what is essentially a commercial building. I think that the fabulous results reflect the attention to detail that was required from the concept stage through the entire construction phase. As the project manager, I think it is important we recognize the ability of the many talented craftsmen who contributed their skills and dedication to bringing the project to fruition.” Another challenge was dividing the space. It was decided that all the bedrooms would be over the retail areas, which are vacant at night. This level would also include a library and two bathrooms. In keeping with their concern for conserving water and energy, the owners selected high efficiency Caroma dual flush toilets from Kitchen & Bath Classics. The second storey of the condominium encompasses the kitchen, dining room and great room. Rea created the initial design for the millwork, including the layout and elevation. Cameo Woodworks translated this vision into reality and fleshed out the details. Coast Wholesale Appliances then provided the Subzero refrigerator, Electrolux double wall-ovens, wine coolers, and Fisher and Paykel double
dishdrawers that enable the homeowner to wash small loads with less water. Storage and workspace are maximized without compromising design. By placing the cabinets flush to the wall across from the two-tiered u-shaped island, Rea avoided introducing viewobstructing vertical elements into the centre. Similarly, the owners did not want any intrusive bulkheads. “We spent a lot of time with the mechanical engineer in the planning stages to ensure the ceiling would not be dropped in the centre of the space,” says Rea. Instead, such mechanical components as the ventilation and cooling systems are located around the perimeter of the space, or as in the ensuite bathroom, in the space above the linen closet. “The insulation levels are quite high and the HVAC is state-of-the-art,” says Black. He adds that the architect’s decision to install in-floor radiant heat provides even warmth and increases overall energy efficiency. Rea explains that ceramic tile was used throughout because it capitalizes best on this heating system. On the other hand, the owners wanted to maintain the ceiling in its original concrete state. Because this precluded potlights, the electrician had to feed the wires through the hollow core to the exact location for the fixtures. Creative Spaces Ltd. then had the drywall contractor hand trowel and floated the concrete hollow core ceilings with a plaster finish.
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The owners wanted the lighting to be understated, with only a few fixtures for decorative purposes. These were only a few of the architecturallydesigned materials that Rea was able to conveniently source from form design center, an invaluable resource throughout the project. “By having three companies – Kesay, form and Design Profile – under one umbrella, we can do a lot more and we can do it more efficiently,” she explains. “We all work together. It allows me as a designer to work on the design. I can rely on other professionals to do the legwork involved in sourcing materials.” form design center is also ideal for the homeowner who wants to see how different products might look and feel in a real setting. The gallery features a number of vignettes that bring together products from different form partners. The company also runs monthly seminars in which homeowners can hear from invited manufacturers, suppliers and installers about what makes a product appropriate for a particular application. A designer is also on hand to answer questions. “When you’re planning a project, it’s nice to come in and get an understanding of what you need, even if you are using a contractor,” says Danita Brisson, Marketing Manager at form. She adds that today’s savvy consumer wants to be informed. The owners of this revolutionary condominium are a case in point. Their educated approach to creating a green and architecturally designed space in the heart of our vibrant city is proof positive that an urban renaissance is already underway. spring 2008 | STYLE MANITOBA | 129
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Kitchen&Bath
A Touch of Tradition By Christine Hanlon
Traditional elements combine with a clever layout to make this kitchen warm and inviting. “Using the different heights and depths adds interest, while the cabinetry framing the cooktop anchors the space,” notes Toni Ostroman, Design Consultant with Kitchen Craft.
The cabinets are finished with a light rail and classic crown moulding with an egg and dart detail. Cup pulls and antique knobs in oil rubbed bronze inject another traditional note, while fluted columns define different spaces and coordinate with the island.
Ostroman worked closely with the customer to design the kitchen in this Maric Home. They selected Kitchen Craft’s Brookfield door style in Toffee with a black glaze to emphasize the raised details. A valance conceals the cooktop ventilation so as not to detract from the beauty of the wood. Granite countertops from StoneN-Counters provide a stunning, yet durable and low maintenance work surface.
In fact, it’s the judicious use of fluted columns, beadboard and a furniture base moulding that gives the island its sleek furniture look. As functional as it is beautiful, the island features extra storage on each end, as well as a pop-up mixer shelf and easily accessible electrical outlets.
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Kitchen&Bath Appliance Specialist
With more than 30 top brand names in their showroom, Midland Appliance World is truly an ideal destination when shopping for home appliances. Whether it’s a dishwasher, cooktop, refrigerator, range, oven, warm drawer, wine cooler or a state-ofthe-art coffee maker, Midland has it all with brands that include Maytag, Whirlpool, Amana, Jenn-Air, KitchenAid, Viking, Gaggenau and Thermador. In fact, the appliance specialist is the only retail store in Winnipeg to carry Thermador products. Thermador now offers innovative induction cooktops that combine the benefits of conventional gas and electric technology. Using the power of electromagnetism, induction cooktops are faster, more efficient, more responsive and easier to clean than any other cooktop. Thermador also makes a number of built-in coffee machines that are second-to-none. Midland Appliance World not only offers a full range of quality products, but also a full service department. Just like the service technicians, the sales people are factory trained ensuring that all inquiries are handled by professional, knowledgeable staff. With today’s trend towards built-in appliances, service is more important than ever. Whether building new or renovating a kitchen, consumers can benefit from coming to the store before finalizing their plans. Specializing in appliances for more than 35 years, Midland is truly Winnipeg’s appliance expert.
Flooring Can Be Fun
A playful pattern of squares injects a combined contemporary and retro style into this urban kitchen. Featuring an almost Scandinavian colour scheme, the tiles range from light to dark, to a patterned geometric tile. “This allows consumers to create a personalized design for their floor,” says Heidi Streu, Sales Manager at Imperial Flooring. Aptly, these resilient flooring tiles are part of the Mode Flooring collection, an acronym for My Own Design Expression. This cork-look resilient tile is only one of several different collections in this line. Other styles include a classic stone look, the wood look of plank or parquet, and solid colours, some very vibrant. There is even an exciting Global series with a woven appearance. When Armstrong created this line, the company decided to include a colour-coded number on the back of its samples to make it easier for consumers to match tiles between collections or even within a single collection. “There’s a desire on behalf of manufacturers to allow homeowners to be as creative as they want with their floors,” says Streu. “This helps to take the guesswork out of the process.” And with a brand like Armstrong, there’s no guessing as to durability and ease of maintenance as well. That’s guaranteed.
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Kitchen&Bath Contemporary Cabinets
“We love the look,” say the homeowners of this fresh contemporary kitchen. Five years ago, they had teamed up with Heirloom Cabinetry and Interior Designer Olenka Antymniuk when building a lake home in the Whiteshell. The process was so enjoyable that when it came time to finishing their new home, they knew just where to turn. To create the sleek style the homeowners wanted for their kitchen, Heirloom used a custom metallic lacquer on MDF with stainless steel handles. Meanwhile, the appliances are either seamlessly concealed or integrated into the cabinetry. While the fridge, oven and steam oven are flush-mounted, a matching inlay covers the island’s freezer drawers across from the sink. Even the venting is concealed, remotely located to allow for display cabinetry above the cooktop. And instead of a walk-in pantry that would have closed in the room and restricted movement, curved island cabinets and a wall of pantry rollouts open up the area while providing ample accessible storage. All the interior organizing systems feature tandem blu motion self-closing technology. “Heirloom did a fantastic job,” say the homeowners. “You can always count on them. When you meet with them or with Olenka, they really listen to you.”
Top of the Line
Imagine a refrigerator that can keep a head of lettuce fresh for up to three months. This level of food preservation is now a reality thanks to the Sub-zero fridge. “It’s probably the best refrigerator you can buy,” says Janelle Robin, General Manager at Coast Wholesale Appliances. Sub-zero is one of the few refrigerators with dual compressors. Having the fridge and freezer work independently translates into the capability for maintaining fresh food at optimal temperature and humidity. In this kitchen, the homeowners have opted for a two-tier freezer drawer below the refrigerator. This over/under model is available in stainless, framed or with the option of an overlay to match the cabinetry, as seen here. Coast also supplied a pair of wine coolers, a microwave, dish drawers and an Electrolux double wall oven for this kitchen. Combining the ultimate in aesthetics and performance, the Designer Series self-cleaning convection ovens feature a sleek, contemporary handle. Inside, the smooth glide oven racks are on rollers that extend fully for effortless access. Meanwhile, patented Electrolux technology ensures the oven doors are always cool to the touch. Electrolux is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of home appliances, including ranges, dishwashers, cooktops and refrigerators.
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design&decor
Breakfast at Tiffany's By Christine Hanlon
This beautiful kitchen renovation features elegant dark wood cabinets that create a dramatic backdrop for the mini “Felice” Tiffany glass pendants by Quoizel. “They complement the existing Tiffany fixture in the dining room,” says Heather Reinsch, an interior designer at Robinson Lighting. “It’s a character home, so owners William and Yvonne wanted something that would respect its traditional style.” The many angles in the ceiling created a unique lighting situation but the selected island pendants feature a hang straight mechanism, allowing them to be used despite the angle of the vaulted ceiling. A little play in the housing of Juno’s 4-inch low voltage pot lights allows
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for bulb movement to compensate for the slight slope of the ceiling. The Haze Alzak trim used in the recessed pot lights is designed to reduce glare and draw as little attention as possible. Reinsch designed a lighting plan that enabled William and Yvonne to control the lights independently, allowing them to layer the lighting for their specific needs or simply create a mood. The recessed lights are positioned strategically over all work surfaces and between the Tiffany pendants to allow different lighting levels on the island. Reinsch notes that kitchens are not only for cooking, but also for entertaining.
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design&decor Contemporary Shading Solutions Having just returned from the last Silent Gliss Conference, Interior Illusions is thrilled to bring back some of the latest innovations in window treatments. During the multi-day event, Silent Gliss Canada launched a brand new product line called Urban Edge Shading. The products in this line combine the style and grace of a panel system with the versatility of shading systems. “It’s ideal for small areas where the stack area is small,” notes Magda Zelickson, owner of Interior Illusions with her husband Ken. At the same time, a unique “mono control” makes the system very convenient to use. Urban Edge encompasses 12 new products that Silent Gliss will be launching this year. The product seen here features an amazing new headrail system with a traversing and swivelling function. All veins can be pulled to either side for a centre split or a one-way draw. Perfect as a room divider, this product is also ideal for functional patio doors. The new line also includes a superb two-inch motorized leather Venetian available in a number of colours. There is also a new duo blind system, available in a Roman shade or roller shade. Requiring only two and a half to three inches of depth, the treatment allows homeowners to choose between a full blackout function and a light filtering option. And Silent Gliss recently came out with one price for chain driven, clutch or silent motorized systems using radio frequency technology. Says Zelickson: “They are making motorization increasingly accessible to homeowners.”
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design&decor The Works
In our stressful busy world, people value home entertainment more than ever. It’s no wonder that builders are making electronics a priority in their showhomes. This great room by Gino’s Homes is a case in point. Thanks to K&S Electronics, it is fully outfitted with some of the latest audiovisual technology, including a 52-inch High Definition Sharp Aquos LCD television, remote-controlled motorized speakers (above) and a Klipsch power subwoofer (below). Rather than overloading the entertainment unit with components, K&S constructed a swiveling pullout audio rack for the remaining goodies. These include a Marantz receiver, a Phillips 1080P DVD player and a Shaw HD cable box. K&S offers top brand names for all their audio, video and security products, including remote controls such as the radio frequency Monster All-in-one. “If you want, everything can be turned on at the touch of a button,” says CEO Sean Banks. “When you press “Watch T.V.,” all the appropriate components turn on and the lights dim to a preset level.” K&S can take care of a project from start to finish, including all the wiring. “We do free on-site consultations,” says Banks. “Every system is custom designed specifically for the client. As our slogan says, K&S Electronics is your home theatre and structured wiring specialist.”
Rug Passion
“A great rug is a piece of art, but it must also be able to connect all the other elements into one cohesive artwork without drawing focus only to itself,” states Paul Friesen of the Provincial Area Rug Gallery. He and his buyers scour the world to import rugs that fit that criterion. “We have a mandate here to buy beautiful quality rugs first and foremost, and our customers have noticed. Time and again people come to purchase rugs and note how this is the first time they have seen such a selection of beautiful and fitting rugs for their home,” he says. At the Provincial Area Rug Gallery, the question isn’t finding a perfect rug, but how to choose only one from all the others. “We prefer our rugs be handmade of the finest natural materials available,” says Friesen. Wool, silk, or cotton, the rugs at Provincial Area Rug Gallery are created by the best designers and craftspeople. The gallery has longstanding relationships with a number of the finest rug manufacturers in the world. “We are recognized for carrying exceptional products,” says Friesen. “You just can’t take a beautiful design and make it out of poor quality materials.” The origin of the wool and how it is treated and manufactured will affect performance. It is this uncompromising commitment to beauty and the art of rug-making that sets the Provincial Area Rug Gallery apart.
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design&decor
Something for Everyone A sable finish and high legs lend this Martini canopy bedroom suite a sophisticated contemporary look. “The metal banding on the canopy post adds a bit of shine,” notes Nicky Robertson-Burns, Merchandiser for the Ashley Furniture store on St. James Street. The suite is also available with a dresser, mirror and a platform bed. “You can pick and choose any individual piece you want,” adds Robertson-Burns. The 30,000 square foot showroom carries a wide selection of furniture, including several different room dividers such as this elegant mirrored screen. The Sidney Showood Chair is also a popular item, as is the storage cube ottoman made from dura hide bicast leather.
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Almost all of Ashley’s leather furniture is made to be easy care. “Our furniture is very stylish, but it’s also meant to be enjoyed and lived in,” says Roberston-Burns. “We have something for everyone - contemporary, transitional, traditional, country or rustic. Everything is also very reasonably priced because it’s direct from the manufacturer.” In fact, Ashley is the world’s largest furniture manufacturer. A catalogue and website increase selection even further. The store also carries a huge ever-changing collection of accessories from other vendors. In Manitoba since 2005, Ashley Furniture has three stores, including one on Regent Avenue, and most recently, in Brandon.
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design&decor Pouring Imagination
Displayed in the foyer of a Calgary showroom, this custom-designed water feature captivates the senses. Stamped concrete with a pebbled surface combines with concrete countertops, polished concrete, distressed concrete and reactive acid stains. Copper accents are the ideal complement in this three-piece display. The metal integrates perfectly with the subtle sheen of the countertop and the elemental combination of water and rock. This water feature is just another example of Klassen Concrete’s wide range of decorative applications for this versatile material. Fifteen years ago, expanding on two generations of concrete expertise, Randall Klassen decided to specialize in decorative concrete services. Since then, the company has provided customers with exciting options for indoor and outdoor spaces - everything from counters and tabletops, concrete vessels and sinks, overlays, pools and landscape designs. “If you can imagine it, we can make it,” says Klassen. Floors are another one of the company’s specialties. Here, Klassen used a reactive acid stain and decorative cuts to replicate the look of a weathered tile. Anything is possible, from flagstone to cobblestone, from smooth and polished surfaces to designs never even imagined. The company has even developed techniques and a process to pour over existing wood or concrete house floors. All in all, Klassen Concrete truly is pouring imagination.
Global Influence
A global décor is a composite of elements inspired by cultures from around the world. Frames that reflect that international flavour can both complement and highlight the subtle cosmopolitan ambiance of an interior. This vignette from Framing & Art Centre reaffirms this potential. Textured, notched and carved woods in various earth tone finishes create the perfect range of mouldings for travel prints, original artwork and objects collected from exotic countries. Using unique materials to display these memories keeps them fresh and exciting. The knowledgeable designers at Framing & Art Centre can assist in the selection of mats in materials as exotic as grasscloth, suede and silk. Each material offers a different potential for bringing out the unique features of an artifact. Framing & Art Centre’s three Winnipeg locations all offer creative options for framing and highlighting a variety of special projects, artwork and keepsakes. The stores each have professional and experienced designers who strive to build personal relationships with clients by getting to know their tastes, style and home settings. A national franchise established in 1974, Framing & Art Centre specializes in every aspect of custom framing including archival treatments for original artwork, limited editions, photographs and memorabilia. 140 | STYLE MANITOBA | spring 2008
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design&decor A Touch of Glass
Sometimes the smallest element can make the biggest difference. Glass tiles are a case in point. Used in small doses, they can have a huge impact. Typically applied as a decorative accent for kitchen or bathroom backsplashes, décor glass has increasingly become an affordable way to add pizzazz to any space. Its ability to manipulate light and add depth makes it an ideal medium for creating ambiance. Like many products in today’s market, glass tile has long been a part of commercial décor. It only makes sense that its captivating beauty should find a place in residential applications. For today’s style savvy consumers, glass is an easy and economical way to dress the home. And because most décor glass products are made from recycled materials, they are also an environmentally friendly option. Flatlanders Flooring offers a large selection of decorative glass products. Commonly associated with a contemporary look, the substantial range of options proves that there is, in fact, a tile for every style and taste. From bold and brazen to soft and subtle earth tones, décor glass comes in a wide variety of shapes, sizes and colours. Clients can choose between do-it-yourself installation and the turnkey services provided by Flatlanders’ professional installers.
Point and Counterpoint
By not flooding the space with too much light, these carefully selected fixtures bring attention to the various components of the home. “That is why each of the light fixtures is so effective,” says Norm Secter, President of Total Lighting Sales Ltd. “It’s because they’re not competing.” Interior Designer Ben Wasylyshen selected a telescopic directional fixture to accent the artwork on the wall. “You can achieve the same effect with other kinds of lighting, but in this case, the designer wanted to bring the fixture into play,” says Secter. “The lighting becomes art itself.” Because the vaulted ceiling made recessed lighting unsuitable, the designer used the necessity of below-the-surface fixtures as an opportunity to make a statement. On the other hand, the telescopic light has a much smaller footprint than an option such as track lighting. Similarly, the thin linear wall fixture preserves the elevation of the brick wall without overly intruding into the room. The designer also used the chandelier to define space by form. Like the table, this fixture has a long rectangular profile. And because the light grazes each faceted crystal rather than shining through, the intensity is focused downward rather than out. Combined with the lowered height, this creates a warmer, more intimate setting.
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Transforming Dreams into Reality The owners of this two-storey house knew they wanted more out of their first floor living space. At first they had considered moving to a new home, but it proved difficult to find a yard as large as the one they already had. The children’s bedrooms upstairs were also larger than what they could find in most homes in the same price range. “We liked the rest of the house the way it was,” say the homeowners. After some consideration, renovation appeared to be the best option. The owners then turned to Charisma Interior Design and All Canadian Renovations (ACR) to transform their dream into reality. Creating a more functional kitchen was a top priority. ACR gutted the kitchen and moved a wall three feet into the dining room to add more space. An arched opening with granite countertop now joins the two rooms.
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When enlarging the kitchen, All Canadian had to move not only the wall, but also the electrical wiring and heating ducts. The renovator also replaced the kitchen window with two new windows to frame the cooktop. Cherry cabinets, a granite-topped island and a slate backsplash with chiclet detail complete the contemporary kitchen the homeowners wanted. “Unlike many of the other builders we approached, All Canadian Renovations had the confidence that they could tackle a job this big,” they point out. After all, the renovations did not stop at the kitchen. The homeowners wanted to extend their home into the space occupied by a deck that they never used. At one end of the kitchen, ACR opened the exterior wall and added a sunroom with a heated tile floor and rakehead windows.
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“We matched all the casings and baseboards with the cherry cabinets in the kitchen,” adds Tony Teunis, a principal at All Canadian Renovations. In fact, the renovator replaced all the windows in the house with triple pane low-E argon filled units. ACR also installed an electric fireplace in the living room and completely renovated the bathroom and the entranceway. “There’s not too much on the main floor we didn’t touch,” says Teunis. Throughout the entire first level, they also installed potlights in the resurfaced ceilings and Brazilian cherry hardwood on the floor. The curved transition between the kitchen
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hallway and the dining room even required a custom-made nosing. “We worked together with All Canadian Renovations and Charisma Design to come up with solutions as challenges came up,” note the homeowners. “There was usually someone there to answer our questions.” Besides the interior renovations, All Canadian Renovations also took care of installing a new roof and applying stucco to the addition so it
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would blend seamlessly with the rest of the house. The result is a ‘new home’ within an existing one. By renovating their existing space, the owners were able to keep what they loved best about their house and change what they didn’t like, transforming the main floor into a living space that meets their taste and needs. Now, after a few months of renovations, they can enjoy the results of this amazing transformation!