Homes - Spring 2015

OME TODAY MAGAZINE

BOLD is BACK

More is more for these homes and we are taking notice

2015 TRENDS

Warm metallics, getting comfortable with concrete, animal heads and more.

plus

Scan this cover, get more mags!

See how inside.

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Also home to:

LETTER FROM THE

EDITOR

Welcome to our 2015 edition of Homes by Today Magazine.

In this issue, there is a heavy emphasis on this year’s trends on home décor. My own personal taste tends to lean towards quirky (some may say it’s strange…but decorating with animal themed items is one of my favourite pastimes).

There are certain pieces in my home that I love (my salt and pepper shaker collection, my fox cookie jar and my picture of hot air balloons flying over Paris to name just a few), that make me happy every single time I look at them, and they make my house, very much…me.

When it comes to embellishing your home, it should be mostly about what you like, not necessarily what’s on trend… and the intention is to inspire and empower you with the courage to be bold and make a statement that’s all your own.

Decorate with colours and pieces that you love, and the trendiness will (sometimes) follow: either way, it’s ok, as long as you love the place you hang your hat.

Here at Today Magazine, we have decided to introduce a social media page (page 11) that outlines all the different ways you can connect with us online. There you will find details on not only how you can follow us on social media, but how you can join in on the conversation with uur first live Twitter chat and we want to hear from you.

Also, you may have noticed on the cover we have also incorporated a new interactive feature using Layar to make our pages come alive.

(Especially handy on the D.I.Y. pages where you can connect directly to YouTube).

Happy reading, hope to chat soons!

TODAYMAGAZINE.CA 7

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HOMES

CONTRIBUTORS

LYNN OGRYZLO Lynn is a food, wine and travel writer, author of three international award-winning cookbooks and regular contributor to REV Publications. Lynn specializes in culinary tourism covering regional cuisine destinations, slow food, culinary holidays, wine, spirits and “la dolca vita�. She can be reached for questions or comments at lynnogryzlo.com.

GABRIELLE TIEMAN Gabrielle is a writer with REV Publishing and holds a passion for covering travel and event pieces. She is always up for an adventure and loves meeting new people but also maintains close relationships with her Keurig and bicycle. Her favourite time of year is scarf season and she has easily watched the movie Armageddon 200 times. You should follow her @gabrielletieman

TODAYMAGAZINE.CA 9

GET WHAT YOU WANT FOR THE LOW PRICES YOU LOVE

www.grabjab.com

ONLINE COMMUNITY JOIN OUR

HERE’S ALL THE WAYS YOU CAN CONNECT WITH US ONLINE!

JOIN A LIVE

TWITTER CHAT WITH

@TODAYMAGAZINE

Stefano Tinti / Shutterstock.com

We’ll be talking all about collections…what we collect, why we collect specific things and how we display them. Join us Wednesday, April 8 from 12 - 1p.m. EST #collectibles

CULTIVATING COOL COLLECTIONS From salt and pepper shakers to Pez dispensers… almost everyone has a collection of some sort.

What’s your obsession? Share your photos on our Facebook and Twitter, and join us for a live chat…

PEEK INTO

GET MORE

PINTEREST

ONLINE

We’ve created Pinterest boards to highlight some of our articles!

If you see the Pinterest symbol at the end of an article, login to our Pinterest to view the inspiration boards we’ve created and share your favourite pins!

Check out articles from all our publications they are posted weekly on today-magazine.com and on our social media pages.

pinterest.com/ todaymagazine

twitter.com/ TodayMagazine @TodayMagazine

FOLLOW US...

SCAN THE PAGES & WATCH THEM

COME ALIVE! IN THIS ISSUE OF HOMES

INTERACTIVE PRINT

In this issue of Homes and our upcoming publications we are incorporating interactive media.

What does that mean?

Download the free It is a multidimensional experience Layar App that marries print with digital.

Content is enhanced with digital extras such as behind the scenes photos, videos, tutorials, social Scan this page Download the more. free media and INTERACTIVE PRINT

INTERACTIVE PRINT

Layar App

Download the free Layar App

Scan this page

Scan this page

Discover interactive content

facebook.com/ TodayMagazine

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TM

todaymagazine.com

Discover interactive content

TODAYMAGAZINE.CA 11

ONTENT

PUBLISHER Rev Publishing Inc. PRESIDENT & CEO Daniel A. Pasco MULTI-MEDIA CONSULTANTS Patricia Bolus Melanie Bryson Gail Cerrone Crystal Lowes Lynn Lynch Alexandra Mills Shannon Panaro EDITOR Megan Pasche PRODUCTION MANAGER Tina Lanzillotta GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Tabitha MacDonald Rachel Bertrand IT/WEB DEVELOPER Justin Soungie BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER David Mace MARKETING/SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR Cortney Gusek CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Lynn Ogryzlo Gabrielle Tieman CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS A.J. Harlond, David Haskell TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL 905.356.7283 or 1.877.888.2825 WEBSITE todaymagazine.ca

facebook.com/RevPublishingInc @revpublishing www.revpublishing.com

Homes by Today Magazine is published by Rev Publishing Inc. All opinions expressed in Homes Magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of Rev Publishing, it’s employees or owners. Reasonable care is taken to ensure that the information contained in this magazine is as up-to-date and accurate as possible, as of the time of publication, but no responsibility can be taken by Homes Magazine for any errors, omissions or comments made by writers or interviewees that are contained herein. Furthermore, responsibility for any losses, damages or distress resulting from adherence to any information made available through this magazine is not the responsibility of Homes Magazine. All unsolicited manuscripts and/ or photographs submitted are assumed to be intended for publication or republication in whole or in part. The right to alter, edit or refuse photos and/or manuscripts intended for publication is assumed. All unsolicited material submitted to Homes Magazine are submitted at the author’s risk. Manuscripts and or photographs intended to be returned must be accompanied by sufficient postage. Homes Magazine does not assume any responsibility for any claims of our advertisers and reserves the right to refuse any advertising.

Cover Story 38

BOLD IS BACK

These homes are not afraid to make a statement, proving that sometimes more really is more.

Trends 19 20 22 24 26 28

This year expect to be comfortable with the unconventional. It’s all about bold colour, metallics, concrete, animal heads and more.

BURGUNDY. OR IS IT? AHEAD OF THE GAME CHIP OFF THE OLD BLOCK OLD MEETS NEW SHINE, SHINE ON

One of a Kind 67

TURN OF THE CENTURY LIGHTING

77

CENTURY ARCHITEXTURE

The future of light fixtures past has never looked so bright.

Revolutionizing the modern home.

About Town 89

A HAND UP, NOT A HAND OUT

97

TODAY'S PEOPLE

Habitat for Humanity and their mission to build a world where everyone has a safe place to live.

Social events in and around Niagara.

Tool Box

50 D.I.Y.

Rustic and whimsical up-cycled projects you can do at home.

52 52 54 56

STEP LADDER SHELVES BRANCH HANGER CONCRETE PLANTERS HOT AIR BALLOON LIGHT BULBS

59

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR SMALL SPACE

How to make a big impact with less.

TODAYMAGAZINE.CA 13

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TRENDS

HEAVY METAL ANIMAL HEADS & THE NEW BURGUNDY This year, we’re shaking things up.

By Megan Pasche ON THIS PAGE Photography by: David Haskell Location: by Sally McGarr Realty Corp., Brokerage Car: Performance Lexus, Lexus 2015 LS 460 AWD. On mantle: Stevensville Garden Gallery: White glass lily vase $89.99. On shelves: Stevensville Garden Gallery: Metal Deer Wall Décor $24.99; Hydrangea Floral Spray $35.94; Deco glass vase $59.99; Pretoria Bird Vase $39.99; Home/Live/Solid Cherry Pillows $19.99; Patterned pillows $29.99; Meditation Pillows $39.99.

On Him: Caswell’s, Mount Carmel Centre: Jeans by Heritage 34 $185; Blazer by Renoir $298; V-neck sweater

by Scala Milano $75 ; Dress shirt by Leo Chevalier $88; Tie

by Montebello $48; Dress pants by Bertini $98; Shoes by base London $178. On Her: The Boutique, Lundy’s Lane: Black fur trim coat by Elena Wang $ 99; Plum dress by Free People $139.99; Black Tank dress by Free People $80; Gold bracelet by Nora Norway $99; Black leather necklace with silver “V” $55; Layered black embellished jewel necklace $55; Babydoll dress by Free People $185.

With each new year, comes new trends, and while it’s not advisable to jump on every bandwagon that rolls on by, check out these trend selections from 2015, and hopefully you’ll find a couple that suit your style. The most important thing when it comes to decorating, is that you enjoy the piece, not that it’s trendy, but if the two happen to match up, then all the better! Pieces that you really truly enjoy never go out of style, and you’ll be able to continue enjoying them even as other trends come and go. >>

TODAYMAGAZINE.CA 19

BURGUNDY OR IS IT? Every year, Pantone, the world renowned authority on colour, comes out with their choice for colour of the year. This year’s choice? Marsala, a rich, red-brown colour, named after Marsala wine. It is earthy, sophisticated and makes for a great fit for accent pieces, accessories and paint. Marsala was chosen due to it’s versatility, it can be paired with a wide variety of other colours and is “dramatic and grounding” at the same time. >>

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1. La-Z-Boy Demi Sofa at Lampmans Furniture, Fenwick,Ontario, lampmanfurniture.com 2. Peel and Stick Marsala Wallpaper at Livettes on Etsy 3. Marsala Cable Knit Pillow Cover at Adorablewares on Etsy 4. Office Organizer, at Inoowdesign on Etsy

4

AHEADOF THE 1

GAME

2

While making art out of dead animals is definitely not everyone’s cup of tea (personally, no thanks, unless it’s a crocheted version or a fake dinosaur head). For 2015, taxidermy has made the move out of hunting lodges and is adorning the walls of everyday homes. This can range from fully taxidermied animals to the perhaps more modest set of antlers mounted on the wall. >> 1. White and Gold Deer Head Wall Mount at NearAndDeer on Etsy 2. Faux Animal Heads Wall Mount at mahzerandvee on Etsy

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Concrete is a huge trend for 2015 and evokes a kind of “industrial design” feel. This can be achieved with concrete tables, planters, lighting fixtures and more. Ceramics are also in for 2015: the homemade pottery look is a great way to pretty up planters, pots, bowls, vases and more. >>

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1. Concrete Topped and White Powder Coated Steel Based Side Table at CraftsManhattan on Etsy 2. LEIA Concrete Knobs at KastConcreteKnobs on Etsy 3. Concrete Pendant Light Catherina30 at ckleosteen on Etsy 4. Gold Dipped Milk Glass Vase Set of Three Vases at NellieFellow on Etsy 5. Ceramic Skull Planter at mudpuppy on Etsy 6. Concrete Chair at ConcreteProject on Etsy 7. PUDDLE Concrete Side Table at Milkcart on Etsy

2 6

A CHIP

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OFF THE OLD BLOCK

designs & cabinetry inc.

www.distinctivedesigns.ca 120 Dunkirk road, unit 4, St. Catharines ON L2P 3H5

T. 905.646.3694 F. 905.646.1518

designs & cabinetry inc.

DREAMING OF A BEAUTIFUL KITCHEN? REALITY IS ONLY A PHONE CALL AWAY!

This year, look forward to the perfect mixture of some blasts from the past pieces and their contemporary counterparts. This trend helps add some personality to your home. Check out vintage and antique stores for those pieces that are sure to quickly become the most talked about pieces in your house. It’s postmodern art! >>

1. Side Table at Simply White, Niagaraon-the-Lake,Ontario, shopsimplywhite. com 2. Bathroom Cabinets at Simply White, Niagara-on-the-Lake,Ontario, shopsimplywhite.com

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SHINE, SHINE ON Photo: David Haskell

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Gold and other “warm” metallics have been in style for a couple of seasons now, and they aren’t going anywhere for 2015. Brass, copper, gold are all in for this year in various forms: décor, fixtures, hardware and lighting. Metallics add a touch of classiness to a room, and whether through purchasing an item or going the DIY route, it’s easy to add a bit of shine to any room.

1. La-Z-Boy Zack Stationary Chair at Lampmans Furniture, Fenwick,Ontario, lampmanfurniture.com 2. From Left to Right: Tuscany Glass Candle Holder, Single Plate Holder, Large Embossed Copper Bowl, Metal Deer Wall Decor at Stevensville Garden Gallery, Stevensville,Ontario, stevensvillegardengallery.ca 3. Large Hanging Planter at Insekdesign on Etsy 4. Seymour Concrete Brass Lamp at gdomm on Etsy 5. 1950’s Era Suitcase Side Table at renovavit on Etsy

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COVER STORY

BOLD

BACK

BY PAIGE TURNER l

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID HASKELL

2015 is all about daring to be bold. It’s about not being afraid to make a statement and it’s about grandeur. From grandest of entranceways to repurposing an airplane wing into a desk, the houses featured on the following pages exemplify that coveted boldness. >>

TODAYMAGAZINE.CA 39

There are many ways to make a statement in your home, but the initial impression? That’s up to the entryway. It can be grandiose or it can be subtle, but either style can make a lasting impression.

Opposite page: staircase with hand carved railings, a star patterned inlayed floor make this entrance way an extraordinarily impressive one.

Above right and left: same staircase, with view from top down, focus on hand carved lion head railing.

Right: This long entrance hallway leads directly into the home’s great room. >>

Making A GRAND ENTRANCE TODAYMAGAZINE.CA 41

Kitchens are the gathering space of every home. It’s where people naturally go, especially during parties or family gatherings. With a conversation piece such as this one (left and top) there a lot to talk about. This richly detailed and inlay cabinetry invokes the feeling of real craftsmanship and of a trade long forgotten.

This stainless steel dream kitchens is all about functionality and practicality while still reflecting personal taste. This modernized kitchen has ample storage and room to create and gather. >>

EAT, DRINK & BE MERRY

TODAYMAGAZINE.CA 43

FOR THE love OF DINING

An impressive white-washed antique wardrobe houses this dining area’s many treasured items or is it an escape to Narnia? You decide. This room is an eclectic mix of old world charm and the warmth of a hunting lodge.

Plaid, Brocade and Persian designs mesh unexpectedly well in part due to the rich reds and browns occasionally accented by a well intentioned white accent piece. >>

TODAYMAGAZINE.CA 45

READY for F F O E TAK

The risk in using a big or really bold statement piece in any room is that it can overcrowd or compete with other items for attention. These two rooms handle this well by making them the be the sole focus.

Above: the desk is made out of a recycled airplane wing, making for a truly unique piece. Opposite: Grande solid wood frame canopy is bare of material and is almost isolated in the room. Drawers are cleverly built into the wall to allow for functionality of the bedroom. >>

TODAYMAGAZINE.CA 47

AT THE hearth OF IT ALL

Since the beginning of time man not only had a fascination with fire but also a need for it. While modern advances in heating has made the latter obsolete, it is still a popular feature in most homes and most always a focal point in most rooms regardless of style or function.

Above right: Stone fireplace with cobblestone facade and wood mantle imparts a warm traditional feel while the polished stone with fireplace insert does double duty as the focal point for both rooms while acting as an unobtrusive room divider.

Scan this page and watch it come alive!

Instructions on page 5

TOOL BOX

di

THE BASICS Whether you are a country mouse or city mouse, there’s no denying that we all crave goign back to basics and could use a little whimsy in our lives. Rustic dÊcor is on trend right now and luckily it is really easy to create.

Whatever you envision for a rustic look, you are sure to find something here or on our Pinterest collection that will help you along. Many of these projects are so easy can be completed in less than a day.

The projects use all sorts of materials, so you can feel good about reducing waste and upcycle while going upscale! >>

TODAYMAGAZINE.CA 51

STEP 6 Place cut boards on each step, touching the wall. Draw a line with a pencil underneath the boards to mark where your supports will go.

STEP 7 Attach boards to steps by screwing underneath each step, so the screws don’t show.

funkyjunkinteriors.net/2014/04/stepladder-side-table.html

STEP 8

STEPLADDER SHELF YOU’LL NEED: • Wood • Saw • Carpenter’s Glue • Nails/Screws • Stain • Old Ladder

STEP 1 Choose an old ladder that fits the space in your room.

STEP 2 Select boards for shelves, wall supports, and brackets to connect the ladder to the wall.

STEP 3 Lean the ladder against the wall at the desired angle. Attach ladder to the wall with top brackets.

STEP 4 Mark how long you want your shelf boards to be, then cut to size.

STEP 5 Stain the boards if desired.

Fill up your shelves on your new side table!

instructables.com/id/Simple-Branching-Coat-Rack

BRANCH HANGER RACK YOU’LL NEED: • 1/2’’ or 3/4’’ plywood/hardwood (for frame) • Branches • 1” nails/screws • 2 hanging hooks (for mounting) • Handsaw for cutting the branches • Table saw, miter saw, chop saw, or handsaw to cut the frame.

STEP 1: CUT THE BRANCHES Cut your branches to the height of your rack (approx. 12’’).

Trim the bottoms and tops of the branches to make them stand upright. Trim the ends of the branches where your coat will hang.

STEP 2: CUT BOARDS FOR FRAME Using your saw cut the boards to make the frame (approx. 8’’ deep, 15’’ long, 13’’ tall).

STEP 3: ATTACH BRANCHES TO FRAME Using nails or screws, attach the branches to the frame. If you are using screws, it may be useful to pre-drill the holes first.

STEP 4: HANG THE RACK Attach the hanging hooks to the back of the frame and mount the rack onto the wall. You are ready to start using your new branch hanger rack! >>

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CONCRETE PLANTERS YOU’LL NEED: • Plastic containers • Dirt • Plants • Cement mix • Rubber gloves • Water

STEP 5: WHEN DRY Depending on the consistency of your mixture, drying time will differ. The thicker the mixture, the less time it will take.

Concrete will become light in color when set. When done, gently turn the main mold over, upside down, and let it fall out (do this on grass so it has a soft landing). Some containers may take more effort to remove (use scissors and other tools to assist).

STEP 1: PICK YOUR CONTAINERS

STEP 6: FINISHING TOUCHES

Save your paint cans, plastic bottles and milk jugs for making the base of the planter. Think of unique shapes for the design of your pot. Certain plants will need more room for growing so keep in mind the type of plant when selecting the size of your container. You will need two container sizes for the outside and inside of the mold.

Add drainage holes using a drill bit (optional). Adhere felt pads to the bottom of the plaster to prevent scratching (if placing indoors). Fill the inside mold with dirt and place your plant inside your new concrete pot. >>

STEP 2: MIX CONCRETE Use concrete that does not have rocks in it. Try mixing your concrete in two batches for various looks. Make a thick batch for a bumpier surface on the planters. Add more water for a surface that is extra smooth. Concrete dries on hands, so wear gloves.

STEP 3: POUR THE MOLDS Pour the mixed concrete into the outer (larger) container. Do not fill all the way. Insert the smaller container to fit inside so the concrete forms around the inner container. Using thick concrete, the container will stay in place easier. With a thinner concrete you will need to weigh the inside container down with sand or dirt to restrict movement.

STEP 4: HALFWAY THROUGH Let the mold set for a few hours. Remover the inner container and test the drying process. Gently replace the container until the concrete has completely dried. This step will make it easier to remover the container at the end.

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Tips and tricks on how you can live large in a small space. >>

TODAYMAGAZINE.CA 59

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1. LET’S GET VERTICAL | Trick the eye by making use of the often unused space between the top of furniture and the ceiling. You can do this by incorporating hanging lights or décor, which will naturally draw the eye upward. You can also put bookshelves up high near the ceiling.

2. UNCLUTTER | It’s a good idea to unclutter on a regular basis, whether it is once a week or once a month. If you do it often and regularly, you won’t be left with a daunting yearly task. It’s much less overwhelming to get rid of a couple of items at a time, then go through entire rooms and closets that have filled up over the course of a year. A good rule of thumb is, if you don’t use (or wear) it for a year, you can probably get rid of it.

3. TRANSFORMER FURNITURE | There are so many pieces these days that have more than one function. Ottomans that can double as both a storage unit and a coffee table once the cushions are flipped over. Picture frames that hang on the wall, but fold down into a small table. A piece such as a nesting tables is perfect for small living rooms, and a deep sofa or can double as a guest bed.

4. USE ALL AVAILABLE SPACE | Take a space like under the bed and use it to its best potential. Get some old drawers and add some casters, and you have stylish yet functional under the bed rolling storage. Instead of having kickboards in your kitchen, put drawers at the bottom to store flat trays and pans. >> TODAYMAGAZINE.CA 61

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5. GO BIG FOR YOUR SMALL SPACE | You may think, hey, small space, small furniture, but that definitely should not be the thought process. The more pieces of furniture you have, the more space it takes up and less functional it becomes. It often is better to just get a larger piece, they will take up more space, but you’ll only need one of each piece.

6. UNIFY YOUR DÉCOR | Try and make sure the colours and décor in a room all go together and that there aren’t too many different shades, and it will help to expand your space visually. Sharp contrasts like black and white will make the eye stop, whereas monochromatic schemes and matching items will help the eye flow over the space more evenly.

7. INCORPORATE BUILT INS | Build ins are great for those little nooks and crannies that don’t really serve any other purpose: under stairs, corners, etc. Adding a built in island to your kitchen area can also be a huge space saver, and a kitchen can never really have enough storage. Not only does it add an extra food preparation area, but it allows for an extra counter space as well. Under the stairs makes for a great place to incorporate bookshelves and cupboards.

8. BLINDED BY THE LIGHT | It’s an old trick, but it has stuck around for good reason: it works. Use mirrors and glass as a way to reflect light and move it around the room.

This can be achieved by using a glass table instead of a wooden one and by fitting mirrors into corners, as well as hanging art in glass frames, which will help create even more reflective surfaces, and light.

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IT’S AN OLD TRICK, BUT IT HAS STUCK AROUND FOR GOOD REASON: IT WORKS. TODAYMAGAZINE.CA 63

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TURNOF THE

CENTURY LIGHTING THE PAST HAS NEVER LOOKED BRIGHTER

BY LYNN OGRYZLO

TODAYMAGAZINE.CA 67

W

Walk into the old Victorian row house reincarnated into a vintage and antique lighting store and you will immediately be at a loss for words. Lining the walls, ceilings and floor of this historic building are thousands of beautiful lighting fixtures that immediately fill your mind with thoughts of a world past; of debutants and stately mansions, period wealth and historic charm. Yes, on paper Turn of The Century Lighting is a lighting store, but like anyone who has ever visited will tell you - it’s clearly more.

Turn of The Century Lighting is owned by talented silversmith David Ivens and managed by antiquity expert Michael Rosar.

It’s a different kind of store, not stocked from any manufacturers catalogues. So where do they all come from? Michael explains, “Antique Pickers used to bring them to us but now it’s mostly companies and people that call out of the blue with something they have.” Michael wishes he could buy everything but he already has a warehouse as large as his retail store, bursting full of lights waiting to be restored.

Michael brings out a dusty old box and sits it on the floor in front of me. Inside are dull pieces of twisted metal, curved and looped. Some are attached to grubby circular globes. On the bottom of the box are broken pieces of glass and a few chipped crystal teardrops. I immediately think it’s trash, but Michael sees it differently. To Michael, this mangled heap of old stuff is beauty waiting to be reborn. “We bring them back to the way they’re suppose to be. This is an art that’s not as common as it used to be.” Turn of The Century Lighting is the last retail lighting restorer in Canada.

History has many periods of design styles, technology advancements and economic swings. All of these influences and more can be seen through the light fixtures that range from romantic Victorian to whimsical Art Deco, from Parisian-style Art Nouveau to neo classical Edwardian, and from rustic Arts and Crafts to stark Industrial. There is even a small collection of crystal chandeliers from Europe that date back to the Second World War and an assortment of vintage teapot lights.

The bulk of antique lights, predate the mid 1900s, many of them previously candle lit, kerosene or gas powered fixtures that have all been updated with modern electricity. These take up two thirds of the showroom and remaining third is full of brand new vintage lights. Turn of The Century Lighting is also Ontario’s last vintage reproduction facility.

When designing new lights “we’re pretty much influenced by our antique lights and mid century designs,” says Michael. The Vintage Electric Series is a collection of one of a kind, handmade chandeliers, table lamps and wall sconces. They are able to craft vintage lights to suit a single home as well as take on major commercial projects. “We made a series of stunning, one-of-a-kind, contemporary chandeliers for the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel in Hollywood, California,” boasts Michael.

Currently, David and Michael are working on historic circa 1855 period lighting for Dundurn Castle in Hamilton. “We were fortunate enough to provide museum quality circa 1850s gasoliers from our private collection as well as act as historic consultants for their current lighting and future acquisitions,” says David.

As Michael talks, I’m distracted by a giant pair of outdoor wall sconces secured majestically to the back wall of the store. They’re intimidating pieces with as much beauty as immensity. The mammoth bronze wall plaque with acorn finials proudly mounted with a Greek revival bracket adorned with the eternity key holds an immense milk glass globe with a rope banding pressed into the widest circumference. They’re simply stunning. “It will end up at a pretty special place, I know it”, says Michael.

So who buys these one-of-a-kind, conversation pieces? “Our clients come from all over the world. We just shipped to India,” says Michael. “As people are downsizing, we’re getting more calls for unique lighting because they want to fill their smaller spaces with jaw-dropping, unique decor.”

Michael explains that today, it’s no longer about picking out lights for your contemporary kitchen or bathroom. It’s about looking around creatively and repurposing beautiful things >>

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with history. “It’s the greatest act of recycling.” No more are antique lights for old style rooms, character buildings or century houses. Today the beautiful craftsmanship is being repurposed in exciting new ways.

A Chinese Art Deco lantern hangs by the cash register. It’s silver frame echoes slender feminine features. The ornate silverwork holds oversized panes of swirly milk glass. It came out of a church entrance hall but Michael sees it’s new home, “in a beautiful, modern, white bathroom”. Wow, that would be astonishing.

As the world changes, so does the art of living. Today people want eye-popping pieces that create conversation. They want to fill their homes with pieces that have a story to tell and in turn, they become part of the story. These lights offer depth and history in a world where consumers are looking to set themselves apart from the masses.

At Turn of The Century you can repurpose large, old church lights to create drama in vaulted entryways, use vintage school house pendants over kitchen islands, hang 18th century European chandeliers in modern bedrooms, fix a pair of retrofitted, candle-lit wall sconces in a romantic bathroom and place a pair of sophisticated iron bank lights to either side of a garage door.

As I walk around reading the tags from the lights that grab my attention, I’m amazed at the prices. A beautifully restored piece of elegant history can be yours for a similar price as quality lighting from a traditional retail store – amazing! Why would anyone opt for lights when they can have a lighting statement instead?

There’s something very touching about these old lights, it’s like each one has it’s own soul. Age old and full of stories, each light is more than the accumulated brass and glass so beautifully fitted together. Each one speaks to you as you walk through the showroom. “The one that speaks to you the loudest is the one you end up taking home,” says Michael.

On my tour of the shop, Michael points to a beautiful pair of solid 1850 table lamps, each with six caramel-coloured glass shades and explains how they were used in the movie, Chicago. Other lights from Michael and David’s shop have made cameo appearances

THESE LIGHTS OFFER DEPTH AND HISTORY IN A WORLD WHERE CONSUMERS ARE LOOKING TO SET THEMSELVES APART FROM THE MASSES. in The Murdock Murder Mysteries, Cinderella Man, The Hulk, Copper, Hairspray, X-Men and hundreds of commercials.

Restoring lights is a major undertaking. There are no spare parts to be purchased and rarely are they found anywhere other than in the production facilities of Turn of the Century. “We collect all old lights, some are only good for spare parts. David is a silversmith and has the expertise to craft parts we can’t find.

He’s amazing.”

Downstairs in the Victorian row house is the production facilities. Pieces of antique lighting hang from hooks over a dusty, old, wooden workbench, hundreds of small bins holding metal pieces flank another wall, soft lighting lines the ceiling and boxes of lighting scraps, both broken and fixed line the floor. It’s like a virtual hospital for antiquities and it’s where the old lights are brought back to sparkling life.

Equally unique is the approval policy offered by Turn of The Century. You can take home a light fixture and install it to see how it will look and perform. “No, not many do end up coming back,” says Michael. That’s because no light shows its best in the density of the retail showroom, but get it home in your own setting and it all becomes a stage for each piece to shine.

Turn of the Century lighting is located at 112 Sherbourne Street in Toronto and you can visit their website at tocl.ca

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CREATING DESIGNS

of options on the table, We never really set out designers will help guide to renovate our homes. homeowners in the right It usually starts with a direction and coordinate minor fix; the floorboards the installation and have warped and begun delivery of their chosen to lift, the sink drips, the

BY GABRIELLE TIEMAN cabinetry and counter countertop has grown tops. outdated. Suddenly your Lennard-Otto said her company will tackle any sized kitchen, a focal point of your home, is the bane of your existence. But where do you start when everything must go? kitchen at any budget, with the majority of renovations Since 2002, Distinctive Designs & Cabinetry has taking eight – 12 weeks and costing between $30,000 transformed ordinary kitchens and bathrooms into one- $250,000 dollars.

“We are not here to continually upgrade you, we want of-a-kind luxury living spaces tailored specifically to suit to keep in the budget you have set with us,” said Lennardindividual desires and needs.

“We resonate for customers that want us to come in Otto. “It’s not about how much money you have to spend, right at the beginning and stay with them until the end,” it’s about the investment in the project, maintaining says Anne Lennard-Otto, founder of Distinctive Designs expectations and respecting the client.”

Distinctive Designs offers feedback on all elements who has been working with kitchen renovations for over 23 years. “[Clients] come to us and they have issues and outside of the construction facet; even accompanying they are stressed about it and want them solved. They are homeowners on shopping excursions to ensure the vision is looking to choose a company with competence, integrity maintained to the final minute detail.

“It’s like buying the best dress and not having the outfit and product. We not only supply all of this, but we also with you when buying jewelry and create a partnership with homeowners; shoes – you can throw off the whole educating them so that when they make look,” said Lennard-Otto. “We are very decisions, they’re making them wisely.” straight forward and we like to guide This partner-based system allows our clients and keep that focus.”

Distinctive Designs to build entirely “The guy at the store won’t show customized kitchens in a client-focused you the perfect style you’re looking for format with limitless options. because they are grasping all of this Prior to anyone entering the information from you at that moment, home, the designers consult with the not from months of planning and homeowners to map out every detail of discussion and understanding. They the design and construction – ensuring have told us right from the beginning homeowners are never left questioning what they want and we have nurtured what is coming next during renovations. that design with them. Once we see the “We want to have all your decisions style they have chosen, if they are on the made at the very beginning before you wrong path, we can point it out right even call the contractor,” said Lennardbefore you invest your money.”

Otto. “Some companies just don’t help It is this care and devotion in and that’s when people get frustrated. individual style and result that drives They don’t know what’s coming next; Anne Lennard-Otto Distinctive Design to the top of the they don’t know if they are on track. We home renovation sector. make all of these decisions at the very “The important thing is that you have the team that can beginning so that when the time comes to have your sink deal with hiccups, whatever the problem is,” said Lennardinstalled, you’re not wondering what to do.”

Once these decisions are made, Lennard-Otto’s team Otto. “So at the end, when they are sitting and having a connects homeowners with contractors and suppliers they glass of wine with their friends in their new beautiful space, trust can handle the design and space. With a diverse array they’ll say ‘We know it took time, but look at the result’.”

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CENTURY ARCHITEXTURE REVOLUTIONIZING THE MODERN HOME

BY GABRIELLE TIEMAN

When it comes to modern architecture, the newest movement is for everything new to look old. Antique-inspired furniture, rustic hardwood floors –though they may come fresh out of a box, consumers demand that their new homes come built-in with old school charm. But with today’s buildings continually constructed on a frame of stainless steel and glass, it has become much harder for a brand new home to come established with a welcoming and warm interior. So the question stands: invest in the old or start fresh with the new?

Century Architexture has solved this age-old question by marrying these two common design desires and revolutionized the modern home, recreating a classic construction material: the brick.

Their rediscovered interlocking brick panel system lends

homeowners an easy and inexpensive alternate route to the traditional century-old brick wall, along with the ability to add charm and warmth into the interior of their brand new homes without comprising today’s modern strategy.

The list of product benefits runs on and on; not only do the quarter-inch thick panels look and feel like real brick, but they are inexpensive, durable, independently installed, eco-friendly and entirely customizable to suit your individual space.

“Most of the new condos and buildings today are very simple – concrete and glass – and they are very cold,” said Michael Rygiel, owner and designer of Century Architexture. “This is one reason the retro brick look has become very popular: classic brick really warms up a space.” >>

TODAYMAGAZINE.CA 77

Since their inaugural launch in 2005, the family run company has established itself as aesthetic front runners within both the home improvement and industrial construction sectors. Their brick panels have gone on to be featured annually on popular home shows like Property Brothers, Income Properties and Love It or List It. “My uncle originated the product itself and it has been evolving ever since, becoming more customized, more unique and more ecofriendly,” said Rygiel. “The product enhancements in the last five to six years alone have been vast and we are only looking to get better as the demand for unique and affordable brick work expands outside of the industrial sector and further into homes.”

The concept is fairly simple: each panel is made from a mold of the desired original products facade using a similar ingredient to drywall to create its form. This revolutionary product has made brick work more attainable for young companies and individuals alike. Rygiel understands renovations can be costly and his team works hard to improve the products while keeping prices low.

“If you are looking into using real brick you are looking at spending eight to nine dollars per square foot compared to our product that sits at roughly six to seven dollars per square foot,” said Rygiel. “With our product, you can even install it yourself, which helps you cut down on installation costs. Each sheet is the equivalent of 24 bricks and or units so it is quicker to install – essentially you can do it 24 times faster all by yourself. Even if the sheets are not installed perfectly it only adds to that unique retro look.”

Buyers are given a vast number of design routes to take with the option to choose between either a standard palette of 16 colours or to create a custom colour for a one-of-a-kind finish.

“The customizable abilities of the product are fairly limitless,” said Rygiel. “If we are working with a designer or architect with a specific vision, we are able to match a building they are inspired by or dreaming of recreating 90 per cent of the time.

“We knew that we could work with different oxide pigments to broaden areas we can work with and create – not only to achieve different colours, but we could bring in older vintage looking products that look like they have been around for years and years.”

The entirely customizable brick substitute is not only allowing individuals to make broader and more unique design choices but also helping their popular industrial clientele, like franchise owners, the ability to maintain continuity throughout locations and create a unified look across their brand.

“Our goal is to help restaurants and cafe franchises that want a specific, continuous look and replicate it across so each are consistent with each other,” said Rygiel. “With our mold system, each franchise can have an individual look while maintaining the same style and recognizable appearance.”

Along with their dedication to unique, hands-on work, Century Architexture is devoted to limiting their carbon footprint. The

THEIR BRICK PANELS HAVE GONE ON TO BE FEATURED ANNUALLY ON POPULAR HOME SHOWS LIKE PROPERTY BROTHERS, INCOME PROPERTIES AND LOVE IT OR LIST IT. eco-friendly company’s products are 90 per cent recycled and leave little to no discard and waste; as compared to traditional brick work whose unused materials are substantial and added to landfills. In custom cases, Century Architexure will re-use their leftover custom paint and materials as often as they can, pushing unique colours into their palette series. Currently, Rygiel is even looking into recycling rain water for production.

“We are always recycling materials and adding different ingredients into our system to not only improve our finished product but become more eco-friendly,” said Rygiel. “Things like sound absorption and heat reduction can be added into our products to improve your business and home. Sealers are always added to the product in high traffic areas like kitchens and hallways to expand on life expectancy – in some cases our product has been in place for over 13 years and it still looks like brand new.

Heat reduction is ideal for industrial kitchens in restaurants and cafés – especially when you are looking to install our brick work around appliances - it makes everything safer and cleaner.”

Century Architexture currently works with a wide range of designers, architects and homeowners across Canada and is developing long term plans to expand to worldwide distribution in the future.

Their multiple how-to videos and training manuals are as well always improving to better help guide individuals easily through the instillation process.

“We supply YouTube videos and tutorials on how to install it, how to cut it, how to apply it, how to treat it and what to use it for,” said Rygiel. “The YouTube videos are particularly popular as we know visual aid can be the most helpful. They are very detailed and very slow and no matter your level of home improvement you can understand it.”

Interested in improving the esthetic of your home or business?

Visit centuryarchitexture.com.

TODAYMAGAZINE.CA 79

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EXPERTS ambiance. eco-friendly. money savers.

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While this may seem like a monumental task, these Niagara area experts help with the heavy lifting, by providing some innovative tips on how you can easily accomplish this without breaking your back or the bank. >>

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From contemporary designers like Jason Wu for Brizo to timeless traditional styles offered by Villeroy and Bach, consumers can create their own Space Less Ordinary.H2O-Kinetic technology from Delta and the Double Cyclone flushing system from TOTO demonstrate how technological innovation has improved performance and functionality without any negative environmental impact.

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The Man Cave - Some of the trending colours for 2015 are your grays and taupe’s with the chocolate and espresso browns still solid. Put those, in leather, on a La-Z-Boy recliner and console sofa. Add power recline and a charging station for your I-Pad and you’ll have a man cave that will make you the envy of the neighbourhood!

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A HAND UP not a HAND OUT HABITAT FOR HUMANITY NIAGARA

BY GABRIELLE TIEMAN

Bernie and Kristy Korten existed in constant anxiety. Living in a cramped 700 square foot apartment, the young parents of two children were plagued daily by an inconsistent and faulty electrical supply, water that seeped through the walls and a bathroom floor so deteriorated they could not believe it hadn’t yet caved in. The family did not feel safe in their home.

That daily dread is now a distant memory for the Kortens who currently own a beautiful and safe three bedroom home; all thanks to Habitat for Humanity Niagara and their mission to build a world where everyone has a safe place to live and grow. >> TODAYMAGAZINE.CA 89

P

roviding a hand-up not a hand-out, Habitat Niagara is dedicated to building affordable housing and promoting home ownership as a means of creating change within a family while simultaneously breaking the cycle of poverty.

“Moving into a house causes stability,” said Karen Dolyniuk, Chief Development Officer for Habitat Niagara. “For many families, their children’s health and education improves – many go on to post-secondary education – because they now have a stable and healthy environment to grow in. That is our big impact with these families. It is transformational.” >> Locally established in 1993 by a group of volunteers, Habitat Niagara began as a small operation, constructing one home every other year from donations mustered from the community. But despite small beginnings, the chapter has grown exponentially in 21 years, evolving to comprise of hundreds of volunteers and business partnerships whom have all contributed to the construction of 43 homes within the region and hundreds worldwide.

The social enterprise’s impact on the improvement of life in low income families is next to none; in 2015 alone, seven houses will be constructed in the region by Habitat Niagara alongside their partners Reliance, Walker Industries, Landmark Home Solutions, Cotton Inc., Dave Wiens and Team, Nauta Home Designs, Niagara College and financial donors Constellation, Diamond Estate Winery, the Wine Rack and IBEW Local 303.

But construction does not stop at the Niagara border; for every home built, the board of directors donates a set amount of money back to Habitat Canada. That money is then tripled by the Federal Government, progressing into enough funding to construct dozens of homes internationally.

“For every one home we build here this year, eight homes get built internationally,” said Dolyniuk. “That means in 2015, we will be able to build 56 homes. That is an amazing impact.”

The process is simple and effective; Habitat for Humanity partners with families who are ready for the responsibility of homeownership, but unfortunately do not qualify for a traditional mortgage due to their financial circumstances. Families are selected based on their present need for a safe and affordable home, income, willingness to work towards building solid relationships with volunteers, donors, community members and neighbours as a Habitat homeowner and the ability to repay a monthly mortgage through both 500 hours of sweat equity and traditional funds.

Once chosen by the Habitat board and volunteer family services, the partner family will then purchase their Habitat home through a no-down payment, no-interest mortgage with monthly payments, including property taxes and utilities, set at no more than 25 per cent of the family’s gross monthly income.

This process of choosing a family only begins once the funds for construction have been secured; ensuring families are never left waiting once they have been chosen for a new home.

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- Karen Dolyniuk

“We don’t keep a wait list of the families, it’s just not fair to them,” said Dolyniuk. “When we know we have the funds raised, only then will we put out a family search.

“One of our families who are moving into Niagara Falls, they have been in Canada for 10 years and they have been on the waiting list for Niagara Regional Housing for the size of their family for eight years,” said Dolyniuk. “So we are hoping to help ease some of that waiting list.”

All mortgage payments are then reinvested back into building future homes for more families.

“You are not just building a home for your family, but you are helping another family in need,” said Dolyniuk. “It’s continual.”

Furthering community investment is Habitat Niagara’s ReStore, an open to the public, volunteer run home renovation outlet that offers everything from new and gently used building supplies and kitchens to home décor and appliances at a fraction of the retail price.

Located on Bunting Road in St. Catharines, 100 per cent of the ReStore’s proceeds go towards Habitat Niagara’s operating expenses and home renovations – so buyers can be ensured that every dollar donated is directly contributing to the construction of new homes.

“It is entirely Niagara driven and a big revenue generator,” said Alastair Davis, CEO at Habitat for Humanity Niagara. “It is open to the public and the money goes right back into improving the community.” >>

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All products are donated by community members and industrial business partners. With a commitment to preserving the environment, the ReStore team also offers home renovators an alternative route to discarding their old kitchens and bathrooms into landfills. Their team will come into your home and remove your old kitchen cabinets and appliances for free, then sell it at the store. The family will then receive a tax receipt while another family receives a brand new kitchen at a fraction of the cost.

“Everything is reused,” said Dolnyiuk. “We divert all of that dust and garbage from the landfills by helping families renovate.

It is the equivalent of taking 130 cars off the road each year.”

Habitat Niagara is currently searching for new volunteers for their second ReStore location, opening March 2015 in Fonthill.

All volunteers are welcome and the Niagara team requires no more than a three-four hour a week commitment – though volunteers are welcome to take on as many hours as they would like.

“We welcome volunteers from all kinds of backgrounds,” said Davis. “To run a place like this it takes everyone from the guy who likes to tinker to get that light to work to the people who want to come in and clean the floor and keep the place tidy and dust free. It is this big cycle and every bit helps.”

For more information, visit habitatniagara.ca

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A TRAVELER REVIEW

Dear Canadians, You’ve tailgated at the Ralph. Caught a flight, found a bargain, been to a game and returned home the same day. You’ve been here, done that.

But do you really know Buffalo?

Have you seen a Broadway show at Shea’s? Tried the beef-on-weck sushi at Seabar? Quaffed a craft brew at Cole’s? Toured a Frank Lloyd Wright masterpiece?

Walked and gawked and windowshopped in the Elmwood Village?

Caught an alt-country show at an opening at the Burchfield Penney? Segwayed through Delaware Park? Stopped to smell

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ERIC FRICK

the flowers at Garden Walk? Taken the kids to the Buffalo Zoo? Had an artisanal cocktail at Vera?

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Kayaked through Elevator Alley?

Gone to a food truck rodeo at Larkin Square? Tried your luck at the Seneca Buffalo Creek Casino?

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HEART NIAGARA RED DRESS COCKTAIL PARTY 1. Terra Pasco 2. Bob and Joan Bannerman 3. Stafford & Susan Dobbin, Wayne Thomson 4. Helga & Wayne Campbell, Wayne Thomson, Linda & John Beyer, Liz Palmieri 5. Janie Palmer, Candice Rorison, Anne Kemp, Madeline Woodhead 6. Wende Pilato, Kathy Catenzaro, Rose Tannous, Tom Ratkovsky, Susan Dobbin, Susan Leyland 7.

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CUVÉE 2015 1. Ontario Lieutenant Governor Elizabeth Dowdeswell 2. Mayor Jim Diodati and Joseph DiLibero 3. Giovanni Del Priore and Leo Priore of Criveller Cakes 4. Evan Saviolidis from Quench Magazine, Darcy MacDonell of Farmhouse Tavern, Ed Smith from LCBO, Kim Hundertmark from Niagara Wine Festival, Laurie Macdonald, Executive Director from VQA Ontario, Len Pennachetti from Cave Spring Cellars 5. CuvÊe award winners Laurie Macdonald and Don Forrer with CCOVI director Debbie Inglis, Ontario Lieutenant Governor Elizabeth Dowdeswell and President and Vice-Chancellor of Brock University Jack Lightstone 6. Barb Tatarnic, Manager of Continuing Education and Outreach, CCOVI at Brock University

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