Issuu

L I F E AT I T S F I N ES T

SEPT/OCT 2026

Art

autumn

HOMES

LIFESTYLES

FOOD

ARTS

FASHION

TRAVEL

C U LT U R E

PEOPLE

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CONTENTS 46

40 FEATURES

The kindest heart dress in embroidered ivory fabric ($450) by Reclamation and cream leather and perforated plastic brogue shoes ($145) from Turnabout.

A TIMELESS CLASSIC REVISITED Books reclaim their place in the home By Natalie Bruckner

FASHION A changing season Photography by Michelle Proctor

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WHERE TRADITION MEETS INDULGENCE The Fairmont Empress continues to define luxury

By Tess Van Straaten

FASHION

Colwood home defines luxury in family-focused community

On the Cover Photography: Michelle Proctor Model: Debs Howard Styling: Jen Evans Makeup & Hair: Jen Clark

TUSCANY BY THE TREES

By Katherine Engqvist

THE PERFECT PLACE FOR STORM WATCHING Recipes to guide you through rougher seas By Breakwater Café + Bistro

DEPARTMENTS

CONTRIBUTORS

EDITOR’S LETTER Books to fall for

16 26

By Katherine Engqvist

DESIGN NOTES

LIFE.STYLE.ETC. Esi Edugyan

By Jeremy Pott

GOOD TASTE Room with a view

By Janice Louise

By Nishadini Fonseka

EVERYONE’S TALKING ABOUT By Katherine Engqvist

BUSINESS CLASS

TRAVEL Surrounded by geothermal energy

THE CELLAR

Perfect perch

By Lauren Kramer

SECRETS AND LIVES Andrea Minter

BEHIND THE STORY By Katherine Engqvist

From one generation to the next By Paul Bucci

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contributors V I C T O R I A L I F E AT I T S F I N E S T

“While I’m never one to wish away the long sunny days of summer,

JEREMY POTT WRITER & SOMMELIER THE CELLAR

PAGE 26

autumn is my favourite season. The wines selected are inspired by its quieter pleasures: the changing colours, cooler evenings and wines with warmth, depth and layers that invite you to slow down and savour.” Jeremy holds his International Sommelier Guild Diploma, is a Certified Beer Cicerone and a Certified Sherry Wine Specialist. With over 20 years as a wine buyer in hospitality and retail, he is very passionate about connecting people to exceptional wine experiences.

“Listening to Chef Brett Yamashiro talk about creating the

NISHADINI FONSEKA

WRITER ROOM WITH A VIEW

PAGE 34

new menu at Vista 18, with excitement sparkling in his eyes, while explaining what he’s bringing to the table was a highlight of the interview.” Nishadini began her journalism career as a broadcast journalist in Sri Lanka and has been working as a Black Press Media journalist for the past year. She is passionate about exploring Greater Victoria and telling stories that highlight the people, places and communities that make the region special. When she’s not working, she enjoys strolling around town and getting lost in a good thriller or mystery novel.

2 02 6 I SS U E 5

PUBLISHER Janet Gairdner EDITOR Katherine Engqvist DESIGN Crea Zhang Tammy Robinson

ADVERTISING Janet Gairdner 250.480.3251

Brian Heighington Glen Butcher Gui Santos Halena Madison Jocelyn Pereira Peyton Seltenrich

CONTRIBUTING Janice Louise WRITERS Jeremy Pott

Katherine Engqvist Lauren Kramer Natalie Bruckner Nishadini Fonseka Paul Bucci Tess van Straaten CONTRIBUTING Don Denton PHOTOGRAPHERS Michelle Proctor Spartan Media Group Christine Ellard Lauren Kramer

CIRCULATION & Marilou Pasion DISTRIBUTION 604.542.7411

“There’s something wonderful about curling up with a good book and disappearing into another

NATALIE BRUCKNER

world. It was fascinating to dive deep into exploring how our homes can offer that same sense of comfort and escape in this issue’s Lifestyle feature.” Originally from the UK, Natalie settled in Canada nearly two decades ago and now lives in her Okanagan mountain cabin with her partner, rescue dog and about 100 wild horses. A writer for 25 years, she is also the author of a B.C.-based mystery novel.

Victoria Boulevard® is a registered trademark of Black Press Group Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the publisher’s written permission. Ideas and opinions expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of Black Press Group Ltd. or its affiliates; no official endorsement should be inferred. The publisher does not assume any responsibility for the contents, both implied or assumed, of any advertisement in this publication. Printed in Canada. Canada Publications Mail Product Sales Agreement #42109519.

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WRITER A TIMELESS CLASSIC REVISITED

PAGE 28 8

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Books to fall for

The hottest fashion accessory of the year has been books and there’s a meaningful reason behind this growing trend. A recent study found 40 per cent of Americans did not read a single book last year. Equally alarming, this study found nearly 30 per cent of adults can no longer paraphrase or draw inferences from multi-page documents (up from less than 20 per cent in 2017). To put it simply, reading has become a status symbol in a low-literacy era. Technology will continue to change and shape the way we live our lives but our ability to wonder, love, be moved by a piece of art or nature – that’s something a machine can’t replicate. As a child, I adored reading, probably because I was slow to learn and it was a real struggle to finally be able to flow through the pages of a paperback like my peers. The Guests of War trilogy by Kit Pearson opened my eyes to historical fiction. On the other end of the spectrum, The Harry Potter series by J. K. Rowling plunged me into a fantasy world, with my mom reading the first books to my brother and I every night before bed. Later, I would stay up late to read the final books when they came out. Covering a midnight book launch at Tanner’s Books in Sidney was the first story I wrote as a student journalist working for the Peninsula News Review. Reading changed my perspective of the world but I took a break from fiction as a young adult trying to find my place working in a non-fiction industry. I still picked up the occasional book, mostly to read while on a plane or soaking in the bath tub, but there were only a handful of titles I finished in a year and nothing seemed to grab me the way books did in my childhood. I thought maybe I had just outgrown the magic of childhood. Then by chance, I bought Ruth Ware’s The Woman in Cabin 10 to read on a Mexican vacation. Sitting in the sun, sprawled out on a lounger in front of the ocean, I tore through that book. My love of psychological thrillers was born just as the world was being gripped by the early days of the pandemic. With little else to do and desperately needing a break at the end of the day from the never-ending news cycle, I found Reese Witherspoon’s book club. While my pace has slowed since the pandemic, I find it’s still important to carve out a few minutes before bed to read instead of doom scrolling. This shift has done wonders for me during the early years of parenting. This little sliver of me-time has felt like a period of rest and rejuvenation. There have been a number of titles that have stuck with me. Kristin Hannah’s The Nightingale brought tears to my eyes as I clutched my napping baby while reading her gripping tale of French resistance during the Second World War. Broken Country by Clare Leslie Hall absolutely gutted me, as did Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy. Other titles, like The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides, The Sanatorium by Sarah Pearse, All the Missing Girls by Megan Miranda and anything by Ruth Ware, have captivated my attention from the first page. Esi Edugyan’s Washington Black has had a permanent place on my bedside bookshelf – my highlight reel of favourite reads and ones I can’t wait to devour. You can read more about this local, award-winning literary genius in our Life. Style. Etc. feature. You can also read more about Andrea Minter, owner of Russell Books, in Secrets and Lives. Celebrating 65 years, Russell Books has grown to be one of the largest new and used book stores in Canada and is a beloved staple in the heart of Victoria (and one of my favourite spots). This issue is all about creating that cosy corner while luxuriating in the art of autumn. Whether that’s with a new chair (see some inspiration in Design Notes), dedicating an entire space to a library (Lifestyles), or just taking a break outside during the golden hour (Fashion), there’s space everywhere to enjoy all this season has to offer. Reading used to be something we just did. Now it’s an exercise in self-discipline – to be able to sit, uninterrupted and flow through pages without having them summarized in a few sentences. We thank you for spending the time to do that with us. Until next time,

Katherine Engqvist Editor Katherine Engqvist is an award-winning multimedia journalist. She’s based in Greater Victoria but has travelled to 32 countries looking for stories to share. When she’s not working, you can find her on the family farm, cruising through the ocean, chasing her toddler around the garden or reading a novel with a glass of wine.

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The Pelvic Floor Revolution Comes to Victoria UROSPOT combines technology, education, and health coaching to help women (and men) say goodbye to bladder leaks, urgency, prolapse and other pelvic floor issues. The best part is you remain fully clothed, and the treatment is 100% noninvasive. Nothing goes in your body, and no one is touching you.

ou may not know it, but there is a Pelvic Floor Revolution happening around the world. For years the pelvic floor was a taboo subject not well understood. You can blame this on a historical lack of funding and interest in women’s health. This is now changing. There are articles in major women’s health magazines, podcasts, and even a new industry called FemTech – where women’s healthcare and technology are colliding to solve unmet needs. And don’t you think it’s about time? If men peed their pants every time they sneezed, jumped, or shot a hockey puck this would have been solved 50 years ago. Can I get an “Amen”? Women have normalized bladder leaks and urgency as “part of being a woman”. This is simply not true. These issues are common, but not normal. Your body should not leak urine. Ever. Wearing bulky pads or diapers should not be something we settle for. These issues are typically a sign of dysfunction in your pelvic floor, and you deserve to have that problem solved. Numerous surveys show many women have no idea what the pelvic floor is or what purpose it serves. UROSPOT is a private and modern pelvic health and urology focused clinic passionate about changing this statistic.

The care team consists of Nurses and Pelvic Floor Physiotherapists. You are surrounded by professionals coming together to help you. A key part of the care model is the Kegel Throne - a medical chair, approved by Health Canada. As you sit comfortably, the chair not only re-boots the connection between your brain, bladder, and pelvic floor, but it also does 11,000 contractions of the pelvic floor muscles (you know these as Kegels) to help strengthen and restore the muscles. “Finding this program was the best thing to have happened to me. I had become pretty recluse, and now I feel free and liberated from my circumstances. I have learned so much about my body that I didn’t know before – it’s a wonderful blessing”. The level of education provided at UROSPOT is world class. “Why wasn’t I told this 10 years ago?” is a common question asked by clients exposed to the education throughout their care. With locations across Canada, UROSPOT has a new home in Victoria. This revolutionary and dignified treatment changes lives and restores confidence and freedom. You can even use physiotherapy benefits towards the cost of treatment. If bladder leaks, urgency, night waking to pee, frequent trips to the bathroom or pelvic organ prolapse are impacting your life, help is now here. urospot.com | victoria@urospot.com UROSPOT Victoria 3200 Shelbourne St., Unit 150 778-247-2026

design notes

Everyday Swivel Chair EQ3 $1,599

Celine Chair Jordans Interiors $2,309

Symmetric Sage Green Lounge Chair CB2 $1,999

Loll Fredricksonn Rocking Chair Gabriel Ross $1,195

Hollis Armchair Anthropologie $898 USD Field Lounge Chair in Yucca Chester Fields $2,695

Perfect perch By Janice Louise, Modhaus Design

Bean sprouts and boundless meadows bring joy and thoughts of late summer as fall comes into view. With cosy times around the corner, don’t be green with envy of your neighbour; replace your worn out armchair with one of these beautiful options. 12

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Pop Fireside Chair By Maison Jeudi $1,494

DYVLINGE Swivel Chair IKEA $299 Herman Miller Wilkes Lounge Chair Gabriel Ross *prices vary

Uni Armchair Merve Kahraman *contact for pricing Gemma Chair Monarch Furnishings $1,799

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hot properties

everyone’s talking about

COOKING WITH FIRE

This fall’s hottest ticket will transform a stadium in Langford to highlight some of the Island’s top culinary talents with a focus on live-fire cooking techniques. Brewery & the Beast returns Sunday, Sept. 27, bringing some of the Island’s top chefs, restaurants and beverage producers together for an all-inclusive, self-led culinary experience. This is not your typical food festival but a curated, highcalibre event where every dish is prepared with responsibly sourced proteins showcasing bold flavours, premium ingredients and impressive cooking techniques. Guests can expect an immersive experience with exceptional food, thoughtfully paired beverages and an atmosphere celebrating creativity. For more information and tickets, go to breweryandthebeast.com.

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF BREWERY & THE BEAST

FROM THE VINEYARD TO VICTORIA

Have you ever wanted to learn more about wine but didn’t know where to start? More than 400 wines from 15 countries will come together for tastings, seminars and conversations with the people behind the bottles as the Victoria International Wine Festival returns to the Victoria Conference Centre on Nov. 6 and 7. “You do not need to be a wine expert. You just need to be curious,” says festival founder David Bain in a statement. As this year’s featured region, South Africa will take centre stage, introducing guests to its remarkable landscapes, grape varieties and winemaking traditions. With winemakers and their representatives converging in Victoria, it’s the perfect opportunity for attendees ask questions, explore unfamiliar wines and discovery something new to enjoy. “I grew up seeing the dirtunder-the-fingernails side of wine,” David explains. “I saw the farming, the risk and the people behind it. But when it came time to shop for wine, even I could feel overwhelmed by all the regions, varieties and rules that seemed to surround it. We wanted to create a festival that strips away that pressure and brings wine back to what makes it amazing.” More information about the festival, including tickets, can be found at vicwf.com.

PHOTO COURTESY OF VICTORIA INTERNATIONAL WINE FESTIVAL

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life.style.etc. ESI EDUGYAN, WRITER

WHERE WERE YOU BORN AND WHERE DID YOU GROW UP? I was born and raised in Calgary.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR CAREER PATH?

It’s been very circuitous! After publishing a first novel at 24, I found myself struggling to find a publisher for my follow-up. Then, all at once, the book found a home and went on to be successful. Those divergent fates always felt like a lesson to me, given that it was always the same book. Publishing is not an exact science and no one can really say why one book takes off and another doesn’t. Because of this, you learn to approach it all with a little humility.

WHAT IS THE ONE ASPECT OF YOUR WORK THAT REALLY GETS YOU FIRED UP?

I find myself attracted to historical stories, despite telling myself with each novel that I will write about the here and now. I think this is because you feel you can see the full arc of a past story while the present remains ungraspable. Having said that, I think that so many historical events gesture towards our current moment. In this way, it becomes the same work.

WHAT ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT OUTSIDE OF WORK?

My friends, my children, people, generally. My husband and I are also cinephiles, and started a film club. During almost every discussion, someone says something so illuminating you’re left thinking about it for days.

WHAT’S THE BEST LIFE LESSON YOU’VE LEARNED IN THE LAST FIVE YEARS? Kindness is everything. When you soften yourself, others soften, and vice versa. It’s the most important trait in a partner, a colleague, a friend.

WHICH OF YOUR INNATE QUALITIES OR DAILY PRACTICES HAS LED TO YOUR SUCCESS?

Success is often difficult to parse. I do know that consistency and diligence have made all the difference – showing up at my desk whether I feel like it or not and doing the work.

WHAT IS GOOD STYLE TO YOU?

Simplicity, heightened attention to detail, and some uncanny thing, an element of strangeness.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONAL STYLE?

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

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That’s hard to say – simple and muted, maybe, with a dash of something unexpected tossed in.

STYLE INSPIRATIONS & LIFE Style icon: Ines Hanl. Favourite fashion designer or brand: The fancy answer is Dior; for more everyday basics, Aritzia and Citizens of Humanity are nice, and smaller labels like Betina Lou and Mijeong Park. Favourite musician: Too many to name! Favourite cocktail or wine: The mocktails at Wind Cries Mary are excellent.

One of a Kind, Just Like Your Story.

Album on current rotation: These days, I'm listening endlessly to my kids' playlists, which have a lot of Sombr, Gigi Perez and Drake. Favourite flower: Magnolias and calla lilies. One thing that consistently lifts your spirits during hard times: Writing brings me through just about everything these days. That, and a long bath.

FASHION AND BEAUTY Uniform: A light-coloured top and a dark-coloured skirt or pants. Lately I've become enamoured of wide-legged, flowy trousers. All-time favourite piece: A silver bracelet cuff given to me years ago by my husband. Favourite pair of shoes: Everlane's Day Glove. I had been searching for a shoe that didn't announce itself and could be universally worn with anything, and this is the closest I've come. Favourite day-bag: A lovely, years-old piece in tan leather with a mixed-metal clasp by WANT Apothecary. Favourite work tool: A notebook and pen. Fashion obsession: I was in Seoul two weeks ago, and was delighted by how easy it was to find gorgeous, locally designed clothing at nothing prices. Necessary indulgence for either fashion or beauty: I have a Shark CryoGlow LED face mask and I love it. Even if it's not performing miracles, it turns the last eight minutes of my night into a moment of enforced peace. Scent: I rarely wear perfume, but when I choose to, I reach for Mojave Ghost by Byredo.

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READING MATERIAL Fave magazine: This one's pretty great, right? Also, The New Yorker, The Atlantic and The London Review of Books. 250-592-1100

Last great read: I just reread Rachel Kushner's novel The Flamethrowers. It remains exquisite.

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Book currently reading: Simple Passion by Annie Ernaux

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hot properties

QUICK FACTS:

Lot Size: 8,004 sq. ft. Living Space: 3,325 sq. ft. Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 4 Built: 2026 by Qualis Builders Ltd.

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Tuscany

by the trees Colwood home defines luxury in family-focused community WORDS TESS VAN STRAATEN PHOTOGRAPHY SPARTAN MEDIA GROUP

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“It’s very moody in the evening, which is what we were trying to achieve.”

or former West Shore RCMP superintendent Todd Preston and his wife, Colleen, building homes is their passion. “By virtue of my occupation, we kept transferring around and we couldn't really establish a business, but we always built homes in our larger postings,” Todd explains. After meeting in remote High Level, when Todd was working in the northern part of Alberta, his distinguished 28-year RCMP career took the couple to Alert Bay, Nanaimo, the Yukon and Kimberley before a 10-year stint with the West Shore RCMP. “Once we knew that Victoria was going to be our final destination, we started Qualis Builders in 2017, knowing that after I retired (last August), we could do this full-time together and we’re currently doing the renovations up at the Westin Hotel, renovating the guest suites. We've got a couple other big projects on the water on Lochside and in Metchosin, and we’re one of the preferred builders down at the Beachlands so it’s really starting to take off for us,” Todd says. I’m touring one of their newest properties in the nearby Olympic View area of Colwood. Lined with trees on two sides and backing onto protected green space with walking trails, the 3,325-square-foot home at 609 Medalist Ave. is a modern take on timeless Tuscan charm. “It's modern but it’s cosy,” explains Colleen, who does all the design work for Qualis Builders Ltd. “I think sometimes modern homes have the tendency to go a little bit cold and sterile, and I think this one – with the nice warm colour tones, the black accents and the rock walls – has such a warmth to it.”

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The focal point, a floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace in the living room and the matching stone backsplash wall in the adjacent open-concept kitchen were both over-grouted to add old-world warmth. It’s accented by wide-plank oak floors, wood details like beams and wood paneling on part of the soaring 11-foot main floor ceilings, and walls of windows to take in the forest view. “It’s very moody in the evening, which is what we were trying to achieve,” Todd says. “You have the warm woods on the ceiling, you have glass, and then a lot of LED soft lighting that’s all on dimmers so you can mood it down at night.” “It looks really glowy at night,” Colleen adds. “It’s very romantic.” A glass-encased wine room off the living room adds to the West Coast take on Tuscany. There’s also a butler’s pantry with heated floors and a little coffee bar area off the entertainer’s kitchen, which is anchored by a large island and polished nickel fixtures. The

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LOCALLY CRAFTED MODERN – TIMELESS

stonework continues into the main floor powder room and there’s even a built-in pet feeding station with a pot filler. A bright office off the main entrance, lots of storage, and an attached double garage round out the main floor. A floating staircase takes you upstairs to the three bedrooms – each with its own ensuite – and a small sitting area or games space at the top of the stairs, with access to a sprawling patio. “It’s perfect for someone who wants to garden, it’s all plumbed and wired for that,” Todd explains. “You can put your boxes all the way around the railing.” The primary bedroom, which has its own private patio, was designed to feel like a hotel suite with a coffee bar area and “the smallest sink” Colleen could find. But my favourite part is the unique floating tub, with fluting around it, in the spacious bathroom.

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FABRICATIONS

“I think the one word I would probably use is vibrancy in this area with all the new stuff that's coming here, along with young people and young energy.”

“It’s super fun,” Colleen says. “We decided to do the fluted mat finish with that and it complements the vanity lights and other little details – like the vanity handles have a little bit of ribbing to them so it all ties in.” The huge glass shower is one that’s been featured in other Qualis homes and Colleen says people just love it. The calming, neutral colour palette of the home continues through the primary but it gets a bit of a kick with a fun and funky tile in the two smaller ensuites and nearby laundry room. “I just fell in love with that tile and so I just chose different colour palettes for each space,” Colleen explains. “It’s so cute.” Colwood is exploding with development and Todd and Colleen say family-centric communities like this are a big draw. “I think the one word I would probably use is vibrancy in this area with all the new stuff that's coming here, along with young people and young energy,” Todd says. That vibrancy is also why they’re so excited to have started building in the Beachlands. “I think it's going to be a flagship community for the region,” Todd says. After all their moves, and all the homes they’ve built, a sense of community is key. “I think that it's going to be fantastic area to live in with great walkability, the boardwalk and all the new businesses,” Colleen adds. “I think it's going to have a real sense of community and that feeling that you just belong to something.”

107 Second Street Duncan V9L 1R5

Mon–Sat 10-5 Sun 11-4 foreverfab.com

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the cellar WORDS JEREMY POTT, SOMMELIER AND HEAD BUYER, CASCADIA LIQUOR

Autumn has a way of inviting us back to the pleasures of taking our time. The light softens, the evenings arrive a little earlier and a favourite chair with a good book begins to feel every bit as appealing as a summer patio. It is a season built around atmosphere: the rustle of leaves, something slowly simmering in the kitchen and a glass of wine that rewards attention. The best autumn wines unfold much like a well-told story, revealing new details with every sip. From a finely etched Australian chardonnay to expressive pinot noir and two beautifully structured cabernet-led reds, these bottles bring depth, warmth and a strong sense of place to the table. Consider them four compelling chapters for the cooler months ahead. Kendall-Jackson

Hester Creek

Hawkeye Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon

Garland

Alexander Valley, California | 2022

Garland is one of Hester Creek’s flagship origin wines, assembled from exceptional lots of cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc, petit verdot and malbec grown in the South Okanagan. Aromas of blackberry, cedar, clove, tobacco leaf and pencil shavings set a classic tone, while plum, cassis, vanilla and a touch of bergamot fill out the palate. Plush yet refined, with full, rounded tannins, it is a distinctly local expression made for long dinners and thoughtful conversation. Pair with peppercorn strip loin, herb-roasted lamb, beef Wellington or roasted root vegetables.

High on the western face of the Mayacamas Mountains, Hawkeye Mountain’s steep, volcanic soils produce cabernet sauvignon with both power and poise. Deep black cherry, cassis and red currant lead the story, joined by mineral notes, polished oak and supple, chewy tannins. It is richly built without losing its sense of detail, the kind of wine that opens gradually over dinner and makes the final pages of an evening linger. Pair with rosemary-crusted prime rib, braised short ribs, wild mushroom ragù or aged cheddar. $87.49 (plus tax and deposit)

Okanagan Valley, B.C. | 2022

$81.49 (plus tax and deposit)

Hartford Court

Giant Steps

Pinot Noir

Sexton Vineyard Chardonnay

Russian River Valley, California | 2021

Yarra Valley, Australia | 2023

Hartford Court draws on small vineyard sites across the Russian River Valley, bringing together the region’s red fruit, spice, earthiness and bright natural acidity. Layers of black cherry, wild raspberry, dark berries and allspice are framed by silky tannins and a subtle mineral finish. Graceful but not delicate, this is pinot noir with enough depth for cooler weather, an elegant bridge between the last light of autumn and the heartier flavours arriving at the table. Pair with duck breast with cherry sauce, cedarplank salmon, mushroom risotto or roast chicken with thyme.

On the steep, north-facing slopes of the Warramate Ranges, Sexton Vineyard’s shallow gravelly loam over clay, granite and ironstone naturally limits yields and concentrates flavour. Whole-bunch pressing and fermentation in French oak puncheons build texture around a bright core of citrus, orchard fruit and cool-climate acidity, with savoury mineral and gentle oak notes adding complexity. Precise, layered and quietly luxurious, it proves that autumn wine need not always be red. Pair with roast chicken, seared scallops, butternut squash ravioli or baked brie with apples and walnuts.

$75.49 (plus tax and deposit)

$56.49 (plus tax and deposit)

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Design and artist rendering by Fold Architects Inc.

EXCEPTIONAL HOMES, CRAFTED TO PERFECTION Specializing in high performance multi-unit builds for the energy-conscious property owner. Building from the ground up. 250.266.2427 | SITKACONSTRUCTION.COM Licensed General Contractor

lifestyles

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A timeless classic revisited Books reclaim their place in the home WORDS NATALIE BRUCKNER PHOTOGRAPHY DASHA ARMSTRONG PHOTOGRAPHY

nce a staple of upper-class residences, the home library fell out of favour from the mid-1970s to the early 2000s, as digital technology, e-readers and a shift towards more minimalist, open-concept living changed the way interiors were imagined. From Bette Midler’s distinctly feminine library, complete with its own ladder, to Karl Lagerfeld’s Paris studio, which housed more than 300,000 books, and Ernest Hemingway’s private collection of approximately 9,000 volumes, these rooms were expressions of their owners’ identities as much as they were places to house books. By the 1990s, minimalism had introduced a very different vision of the home. Open-plan layouts and a desire for less visual clutter marked a departure from the traditional library, which had come to represent old-world formality. Smaller home footprints also meant dedicated libraries and reading rooms no longer suited the way people wanted to live.

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“People seem to be craving a slower, simpler way of living, so we're definitely seeing more interest in reading nooks and spaces that encourage people to switch off from technology.”

STONES JEWELLERY Family Operated Designers of Fine Jewellery Since 1972

located in the

Fairmont Empress Hotel Tea Lobby

A NEW CHAPTER

Today, however, the home library has returned with remarkable momentum, taking its place once again in homes of all sizes, though in ways that reflect contemporary living. While they still carry a sense of refinement, spaces dedicated to books have become a retreat from the constant demands of a connected world. For designers, the return of the library reflects a broader desire for homes that feel more personal and intentional. “We’re always looking for ways to make a home feel layered and authentic, and books do that naturally,” says Julia Estey, principal designer at Victoria-based Jenny Martin Design. “People seem to be craving a slower, simpler way of living, so we’re definitely seeing more interest in reading nooks and spaces that encourage people to switch off from technology.”

READING THE ROOM

The popularity of what has been coined the “bookshelf wealth” movement reflects an evolution in how we think about the home library. The traditional version, with its wall-to-wall books, leather armchair and rolling ladder, remains an aspiration for many book lovers, but today’s reading spaces are very personal, with a lived-in feel, and are incredibly adaptable. The modern library no longer has to be confined behind a closed door – although a former closet hiding a reading nook behind a mirrored door does create a certain sense of magic. The beauty of today’s reading spaces lies in their versatility. A quiet corner beneath a staircase or a sun-filled bay window can become a place to settle in with a book and step away from the crazy pace of daily life. Sometimes, all it takes is a small pocket of space to create something that is entirely unique to the individual. “People don’t always have space for a dedicated library, so it’s nice to carve out a quiet spot in a bedroom or living area where you can sit and read,” Julia says. “I also like using hallways; they’re often overlooked, but adding bookshelves can make them feel more lived in while giving you extra storage too.”

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THE FINE PRINT

The secret to creating an inviting reading space begins with texture. Materials and pieces collected over time and from travels bring warmth and depth. “You want the space to feel like it tells a story,” Julia explains. “The success is in the restraint; it just needs to feel comfortable and relaxing.” The most memorable reading spaces are often defined by the materials themselves. Natural woods, soft textiles and matte finishes create warmth, while rugs and cushions add softness and comfort. “I personally love layering, with natural linens and deeper, earthy colours like dark greens. Woods with warm undertones, natural fibres and soft textures really help create that sense of comfort. We also like to play with different weights and finishes. Mixing something soft and tactile with something more robust or durable helps give a space depth and dimension.” It’s these small details that bring these spaces to life. Decorative objects, ceramics and artwork add personality, while side tables and ottomans provide function without taking away from the overall feeling of the room. This helps create that lived-in aesthetic that aligns with today’s interiors.

ILLUMINATING MOMENTS

Lighting is another element that can completely transform the feeling of a reading space. The most inviting corners rely on a combination of soft illumination that allows the room to shift throughout the day. A sculptural floor lamp, a wall-mounted reading light or a small table lamp beside a favourite chair can create intimacy while still being practical. “The space should feel personal, with good lighting making it somewhere comfortable to settle in,” Julia adds. Warm light, around 2700K to 3000K, helps reduce eye strain and softens the overall atmosphere, while dimmers allow the mood to adjust easily from day to evening. For added flexibility, swing arm or gooseneck designs bring light to exactly where it is needed. An oversized floor lamp can also act as a focal point, especially when placed near a mirror or reflective surface to gently extend the light.

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HIDDEN CHARACTERS

Of course, a reading nook or library wouldn’t be complete without a bookshelf, or some variation thereof. Rather than overcrowding the space with wall-to-wall dark mahogany shelves that gather dust, designers are focusing on bespoke shelving, from unconventional geometries and hidden book nooks to suspended designs that bring creativity to the home. “Books and how they are displayed add personality; they tell you something about the people who live there and their personal

interests,” Julia says. Shelving has become an opportunity to bring character into a space. Whether following the lines of a room or standing apart as a design feature in its own right, shelves can shape the entire feeling of a reading area. The result can be bold and dramatic or softly understated, with both approaches feeling entirely personal to the homeowner. Designers are also finding opportunities in places that might otherwise be overlooked. A recessed space above a chaise lounge, an extra-deep doorway reveal, or a half-height bookcase beneath a bay window can all

become unexpected opportunities for shelving, turning areas that might otherwise go unnoticed into thoughtful features within the home. Small details can then elevate these displays further, whether through a contrasting colour painted inside the shelves or a stained-glass front that adds another layer of craftsmanship and personality.

PLOT TWIST

Perhaps surprisingly, the way books are arranged can change the entire feeling of a shelf. A beautifully styled collection leaves room for those personal flourishes, allowing favourite titles and personal pieces to sit together naturally. Books don’t always need to be arranged perfectly either because sometimes the most interesting shelves are the most personal. Grouping books by colour can create a striking visual display, while a more traditional arrangement allows the character of the collection itself to take centre stage. Designers often work with a simple styling formula when creating these displays, with books occupying roughly 70 per cent of the shelf and decorative objects filling the remaining 30 per cent. In more design-forward spaces, that balance may shift closer to 60/40, creating a composition that feels intentional without becoming overly staged. Perhaps the most unexpected benefit of a home library or reading nook is the value it can add to a property. As buyers increasingly look for homes with character, these rooms have become memorable selling features, often highlighted in real estate listings as a point of difference. Beyond their practical purpose, they leave a lasting impression, giving a home that something special that sets it apart. boulevardmagazines.com

good taste

Room with a view 34

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Vista 18 blends local inspiration with Japanese influence WORDS NISHADINI FONSEKA PHOTOGRAPHY DON DENTON

creamy Hokkaido scallop resting in a clear tomato consommé, made from local tomatoes, is one of the personal favourites of Vista 18’s new chef Brett Yamashiro. The dish carries lightly pickled kohlrabi, Japanese mayonnaise and yuzu kosho on the side to enhance the flavours of the seafood. Located in the heart of the city and on the 18th floor of Chateau Victoria Hotel & Suites, the rooftop restaurant fills with soft music, tantalizing aromas and excitement from the guests who line up to enjoy its brand new menu. “I felt like previously the menu wasn’t quite sure what it wanted to be,” Brett says. “There were flavours from a little bit of everywhere. Now we want to focus on local food with Japanese Asian influence.” The new menu, which was unveiled this summer, is inspired by Greater Victoria, with a focus on in-season produce and ingredients. “Basically, everything changed,” Brett says, but they have left some favourites, such as Vista Chips.

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He wants the menu to feel more approachable at a time when diners are more selective about where they spend their time. “I don’t think people want to read a menu and have to google 10 things on it. I want people to read chicken risotto or chicken chips and immediately know what they’re getting.” Brett, with 18 years of culinary experience, took the role of chef de cuisine in March. Born and raised in Calgary, he completed higher education at the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology. Following his studies, he received an opportunity to represent Canada at an international culinary competition in Hong Kong. Those strict instructors helped shape the discipline he carries to the kitchen at Vista 18. He also pulls inspiration from his grandmother, who was a great cook and the reason he chose this profession. Although he says his reason sounds cliché, he believes her cooking helped him to explore culinary art further. “Everything she made was delicious,” he explains. “She's also kind and loving … It was definitely my grandma, she definitely put that in me.” Along the way, he’s worked at some of the country’s most prestigious restaurants and even a Michelin-starred restaurant in Switzerland. The years spent at those high-volume restaurants situated in tourist-dense areas has sharpened his skills, efficiency and the ability to uphold consistency under pressure. 36

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“When you watch someone eat a delicious bite, it's like that look on their face warms my heart.”

However, Brett is not the kind of chef to complain about hard work. He makes sure to turn tough experiences into lessons that make him a more relevant personality in the industry. “It was lots of hard work but it builds character,” he reminisces. Having visited Victoria several times and falling in love with it, Brett was ready to move to beautiful British Columbia after spending much of his professional life in the wild rose territory of Alberta. While Greater Victoria’s beauty captivates him, it’s the region’s abundant supply of natural ingredients, such as produce and seafood, that excites him. “It's a chef's dream over here. So when I got that opportunity, I definitely took it.” He’s worked to make connections with local growers and suppliers, turning it into an essential part of the restaurant’s operations. “If you have a superior ingredient, you have a superior dish,” he says, as if it were his motto.

One of the other philosophies Brett applied when designing the new menu at Vista 18 was to allow ingredients to perform on their own. Historically, he’s been known to be quite rebellious and tried to be as innovative as possible as an energetic young chef, but years of experience in the industry have honed his skill for restraint. “The thing is, as I've gotten older, I've kind of realized restraint is actually discipline. So I think that's something that's really ingrained into how I cook now.” Accordingly, he has made sure the new additions to the menu carry a balance of taste, while layering contrasting textures that keep each bite interesting. “When you watch someone eat a delicious bite, it's like that look on their face warms my heart.” As much as the harmony of tastes is important, textures are equally important.

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“You want something soft, creamy, crunchy. You want a variety of textures too because that definitely is a huge part of the eating experience,” he says. He also wants to make his dishes as healthy as possible, ensuring after guests finish a meal, it digests nice and slow, and they still feel good hours later. “There is that nutrition part of it too, which I think a lot of chefs don't necessarily care about as much as previously.” His experience has also taught him to use each ingredient at its peak. “There's a lot more to it than just food and just the actual cooking. It's the ordering, the storing, the techniques, everything really relates to it.” When asked if he has a favourite on the new menu, Brett nods to the Scallop Crudo. He’s especially proud of the dish, given how much thought he put into developing it, also taking local guests’ tastes into consideration, and has been working on it over the last year. “I've been thinking about that for quite a long time … Sometimes dishes just come to you like that.” The Duck Breast, paired with an orange sherry gel, is another favourite of the chef and guests alike. “It's really delicate and eats like a really fresh orange, which goes really well with the fattiness of the duck.” Looking ahead, Brett hopes to expand Vista 18 beyond its reputation as a destination reserved for anniversaries and celebrations. He wants more locals to be guests and choose it for a date night, happy hour or to simply enjoy the view. “Things have changed here. Give it a shot.”

“I don’t think people want to read a menu and have to google 10 things on it. I want people to read chicken risotto or chicken chips and immediately know what they’re getting.”

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See the world

Perfection robe in ivory tulle ($359) from Reclamation (available online at wearereclamation.com).

changing season

Capture those last golden rays of late summer sunshine as fall blooms with its warm tones. This is a season of transition, a chance to reflect while finding a cosy spot to cuddle up with a good book. PHOTOGRAPHY: MICHELLE PROCTOR MODEL: DEBS HOWARD STYLING: JEN EVANS MAKEUP & HAIR: JEN CLARK

Ivory lace top by Saint Laurent ($195) from Turnabout, cream eyelet cotton tiered skirt ($116) also from Turnabout and vintage brown leather boots ($60) from White Rabbit.

Perfection robe in ivory tulle ($359) from Reclamation.

Cream silk dress by Zara ($98) from House of Savoy.

White check dress by Bardot ($45) from Turnabout, cream cable knit sweater vest by Free People ($65) and a cream leather purse by Danse Lente ($174) – all from Turnabout – with vintage brown leather boots ($60) from White Rabbit.

Ivory lace top by Saint Laurent ($195) from Turnabout, white knit sweater by Artpodium ($125) from House of Savoy and the ‘Bring it’ skirt in tulle ($229) by Reclamation.

weekender

Where tradition meets indulgence

The Fairmont Empress continues to define luxury WORDS KATHERINE ENGQVIST PHOTOGRAPHY FAIRMONT EMPRESS

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his may just be the best seat in town, sitting above the Empress sign, overlooking the Inner Harbour as pickle boats glide through the sea and float planes taxi to their watery runway before lifting off. Sipping a glass of Bottega Prosecco, from the bottle that had been thoughtfully left for us on ice, we watch as the waterway quiets and the sky comes alive with the last light of the day. Strokes of that sunset pink paint the clouds across a deep blue sky before slowly fading to black. Streetlights pop to life, their glowing globes replacing the fiery sun that was just ablaze on the horizon. It’s arguable the most iconic view in Victoria, and one all locals are all familiar with, but from this angle, this elevation, it feels private and elite. We’re here at the Fairmont Empress for a luxurious retreat and a taste of the recently reopened Q restaurant. There are many reason this iconic staple in downtown Victoria continues to receive worldwide accolades year after year. From the extensive flower beds leading to the underground parking, the curated collection of antiques throughout the halls and even the little touches of hospitality items placed in discreet but convenient locations throughout the building, it’s clear every aspect has been carefully considered and catered to. But the Empress would not have withstood the test of time without that attention to detail.

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If these walls could talk I doubt they would – this building seems to define discretion, which is probably why members of the Royal Family and countless celebrities continue to grace these halls.

Its history is as renowned as the building itself. It began in the early 1900s, when the Canadian Pacific Railway started building opulent chateau-style hotels across Canada to accommodate its affluent steam and rail clients. Famous architect Francis Rattenbury was tasked with making that dream a reality in Victoria and construction began in 1904. Named after Queen Victoria, the Empress officially opened on Jan. 20, 1908. While the city grew around her, so too did the Empress, with its second addition – the south wing – completed in 1912. Three major renovations followed with ‘Operation Teacup’ in the 1960s – a $4 million undertaking that saved her from demolition – and the $45

million ‘Royal Restoration’ in the 1980s, which uncovered the stain glass ceiling in Palm Court. The most recent, ‘Return of the Queen,’ was the $64 million-facelift completed in June 2017. Along the way, the Empress was designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1981 and was taken under the Fairmont banner in 1999. Of course, no icon can escape local lore, and despite the legends, she is not sinking. While her exterior has caused many tourists and locals alike to stop and take pictures or simply just stare, inside is just as captivating. If these walls could talk I doubt they would – this building seems boulevardmagazines.com

to define discretion, which is probably why members of the Royal Family and countless celebrities continue to grace these halls. While whispers of past guests aren’t heard, glimpses of her history are framed on the walls. Snapshots from years prior share a peek into the people who have come before, some of the celebrations and the grandeur that has come to define the Empress. Before dinner we simply wander, taking in the pictures, art and corridors that pay homage to a different time. It’s easy to picture that era, with women in floor-length Edwardian silhouettes, bellhops helping them with steamer trunks and hat boxes. But modernizing a historic building, especially one as significant as this, is a challenge under the best conditions and few attempts I've seen have successfully blended those heritage details with modern elements. Yet the team at the Empress continues to pull it off. The Q at the Empress has been reshaped to feature a new refined raw bar, as well as an extensive cocktail bar. Haloed by light features, these bars command the space but don’t take away from the intricately carved dark wood columns and beams. Booths and chairs in dark olive green and deep amethyst purple tones are made from supple suede that feels like butter as you slide into your seat. Copper light fixtures, with petal-like detailing, hang above tables to complete the ambiance. Of course, homage must be paid to Queen Victoria, and portraits of her younger years with gilded frames adorn the wall. Myra, our server for the evening, is the real gem in the room. Her quick wit and extensive knowledge of the menu makes for fun banter and interesting selections that may not have been our first choice.

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I opt for her favourite cocktail – the Empress 75, featuring Empress 1908 gin, St-Germain, lemon, Prosecco, simple syrup and grapefruit pearls. When it arrives, she walks me through the best way to taste and experience this concoction, with a sip and a nibble of the pearls to really get the full flavour profile. My husband’s choice – the Pearl – is a little simpler to drink but no less sophisticated in its flavour profile. With Bacardi Ocho rum, Del Maguey mezcal, Cointreau, pistachio, passion fruit, lime and nutmeg, it has a pleasantly smoky undertone that lingers on your palate. The menu at Q is shaped by sea and season with a refined, expressive approach to modern cuisine. Supplied with local seafood from Finest at Sea, we can’t resist trying something from the new raw bar. We watch the chefs smile as they prepare our open-face Dungeness crab rolls. It’s something to see but not just because of the technique. All members of the team here seem genuinely happy as they joke with each other and interact with guests. The atmosphere invites you to linger, and we do just that, as a guitarist serenades diners. Since its Sunday, a special black pepper and rosemary rubbed prime rib is on offer, served with glazed seasonal veg, whipped potatoes and a Yorkshire pudding – as well as a whole host of accompaniments to fit all tastes. My husband loves a good prime rib and this one did not disappoint, coming out at a flawless medium rare and carved table side. I opt for the beef tenderloin with sauce bordelaise, confit shallot,

fork-mashed German butter potatoes, local vegetables and watercress. Paired with an Argentinian Malbec, the perfectly seasoned dish was almost too pretty to eat but I’m sure glad I did. Our culinary journey does not stop there. Myra presents us with two desserts – the Élégant Chocolat with praline mousseline, hazelnut dacquoise, dark chocolate mousse, milk chocolate ganache and dark chocolate Cognac sorbet, along with the Summer Garden with yogurt mousse, field berries, pistachio dacquoise and lavender créme glacée. The best way I can describe the first is to compare it to an elevated Ferrero Rocher but that wouldn’t do the dish justice. The smooth blend of chocolate and hazelnut with the sorbet has the chocolate lover in me desperate to keep coming back for another bite. The Summer Garden, on the complete opposite end of the dessert spectrum, is a light yet complex treat accompanied by a kiss of lavender that’s as refreshing as a summer’s breeze. Again, Myra’s selections could not have been more attuned to complete this culinary experience. Sad to leave, but beyond satisfied, we take a stroll around the Inner Harbour so we can look up at the building’s exterior in all her glory, with tourists stopping to snap pictures during the golden hour. Back on the rooftop patio reserved for Fairmont Gold guests, we listen as the final set of the 27th Victoria Ska and Reggae Festival carries over the crowd from Ship Point. When we checked in, Danielle greeted us with a tour of this Fairmont Gold lounge, which underwent an extensive renovation in

The Summer Garden … is a light yet complex treat accompanied by a kiss of lavender that’s as refreshing as a summer’s breeze. 2023, making it the largest in North America, which Danielle notes with a hint of pride. Sitting on the rooftop terrace, we wind down with the sunset and a glass of Presseco before retiring to our room. While we were out for dinner, the bed has been turned down with a pouch of lavender collected from the grounds. It’s these little details, along with the sustainability efforts that include eliminating single-use plastic items, that elevate this experience to exceed all of our expectations, which were high for such a storied establishment. With a view of the Inner Harbour from our bed, we drift off into an easy sleep, excited for what breakfast will bring.

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business class

Rob Tournour atop the Fairmont Empress during restoration work that coincided with Pink Shirt Day. PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

From one generation to the next 52

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RTM Masonry founder lays the foundation WORDS PAUL BUCCI

“For me, legacy is about demonstrating through action that we can make a difference.”

Your home is more important than ever…

We want you to

hen it comes to one of the world’s oldest trades, Rob Tournour knows the work is about far more than brick and stone – it is about craftsmanship, permanence and building things that could potentially last forever. The sheer physicality of the work, the discipline of shaping stone and the satisfaction of seeing something solid rise from a day’s labour appealed to him, as did masonry’s connection to history. As a young mason in Ontario’s Muskoka region, Rob worked year-round – sometimes driving across frozen lakes to reach waterfront job sites. He watched granite move from quarry to finished wall: cut, split into flagstone, shaped and fitted into grand cottages and retaining walls. “The creative side of it, the artistic side, was probably what drew me in originally,” he says. That attraction has carried him through nearly three decades at RTM Masonry and onto Greater Victoria landmarks including the Fairmont Empress, Oak Bay Beach Hotel, McPherson Playhouse and Royal Theatre. But while stone can endure for generations, Rob believes a more meaningful legacy is measured in people. Through Another Brick in Nepal, which he co-founded after the 2015 earthquakes, supporters have raised close to $700,000 for schools, a learning facility for deaf children and safe housing for women and families. RTM also supports the breakfast program at Ruth King Elementary School. “For me, legacy is about demonstrating through action that we can make a difference,” he says, expressing gratitude to long term supporters and B.C. construction industry colleagues. That instinct to help was planted by parents who volunteered through their church and community in Bracebridge, Ont. Rob entered masonry almost by accident. While working as a ski patroller, he met fourth-generation stonemason Boyd Smith and spent his summers learning the trade. In 1993, he moved west, choosing Victoria over Halifax largely because he wanted to keep skiing. Four years later, after working for Island contractors, he launched Rob Tournour Masonry with an aging GMC pickup, a wheelbarrow and a handful of scaffold frames. The decision followed about 18 months as a foreman for two employers struggling to make payroll. He found himself hiring workers for them, then warning the new hires their Friday cheques might not arrive until Monday.

l ove

your home!

NICOLE BURGESS 250-384-8124

nicole@nicoleburgess.com

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“If everything we’ve done over there makes a difference for one child, then it will all be worthwhile.”

The ribbon cutting and dedication ceremony at the House of Prosperity, a women’s safe house and rehabilitation centre. The project was Another Brick in Nepal’s sixth with a second safe house already underway and expected to be completed this fall. PHOTOS BY CHRISTINE ELLARD

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“I just thought, ‘You know what? I’m going to hang my shingle,’” he says. RTM grew to about 50 employees. Few projects tested it more than the Fairmont Empress restoration. RTM landed the contract shortly before the work was to begin. Then, while Rob was in Nepal, the scope expanded to include the rear of the hotel – with no extension to the reopening date. His project manager urged caution. Rob’s answer was immediate: “We can do this. Tell them we’re on it.” A crew of about 80 worked six days a week, 10 hours a day, through a winter exposed to the Inner Harbour. Andesite pieces weighing 500 to 700 pounds had to be removed, reshaped or replaced high in the cornices and parapets without an overhead crane. “We basically lived, ate and breathed the Empress Hotel for that eight-month period,” he says. The pressure in Nepal was different – and more personal. Rob arrived wanting to help, but quickly confronted the complexity of disaster recovery. In one village, leaders asked whether he could help rebuild more than 30 collapsed homes. “I remember looking in their eyes and thinking, ‘Why am I here?’” he says. “These people are hoping I can rebuild their lives, and I had no idea what I was doing.” He returned, built relationships and the charity found its first school project, then expanded into facilities for deaf children and safe housing for women and families. “Ultimately, it’s about the children,” he says. “If everything we’ve done over there makes a difference for one child, then it will all be worthwhile.” His concern for people is shaped by his own struggles. Sober for 16 years, he is active in Victoria’s recovery community and has appeared in industry films about recovery. “I have no shame about my life’s journey,” he says. That journey helped shape RTM as a family business. Rob’s first wife, who helped found the company, remains involved. Longtime employee James Sorenson and his wife Michelle have purchased a stake, and RTM is training eight apprentices – three of them women. The structure may be changing, but the principles remain: treat employees like family and pass the trade forward without losing the craft. Rob is also determined to run Another Brick in Nepal for many years to come. Modern masonry increasingly relies on seismic engineering, specialized anchoring systems and tighter quality control. Yet much of the craft would still be recognizable to the masons who built Rome’s Colosseum and aqueducts, or laid roads through Britannia: stone shaped by hand, brick set in mortar, and arches and details formed through skill, judgement and determination. For RTM Masonry, the future lies in that meeting of old and new – centuries-old materials, hard work, modern engineering and knowledge passed from one generation to the next.

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K R I S TA V A N D M A R K G T E A M We are Krista V and Mark G, a mother-son team with a combined 21 years of experience in the Victoria real estate market. We strive to make every one of our clients feel confident, comfortable, and at ease with the process of purchasing or selling a home, no matter the market conditions. This is achieved using a low pressure approach while providing sound advice, clear communication, and updates.

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402-999 Burdett Ave

$1,399,000 | 2 Bedrooms + Den | 2 Bathrooms Welcome to the Chelsea, an elegant steel & concrete building perfectly located in a quiet area of Fairfield West. Steps to downtown Victoria and close to Cook St. Village, biking trails and Beacon Hill Park. This lightly used condo, overlooking the beautiful courtyard, has been lovingly kept by the original owners, is turnkey and move in ready. Very spacious at 1540 sqft, with a large Primary bedroom, a spa like ensuite, a second bedroom and full bathroom. A lovely den/office is off the kitchen through French doors. Enjoy entertaining with a large, modern kitchen that is open to the living and dining area with a bright SW exposure. A cozy fireplace, insuite laundry and a deck add to the appeal. There is a gym, a well appointed common room and a beautiful private outdoor courtyard garden with a water feature, seating and paths. TWO SECURE UNDERGROUND PARKING SPACES and a storage locker complete this home.

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209 Raynor Avenue

#604-288 Eltham Road

#602-103 Gorge Road

$899,000 | 3 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms

$829,000 | 3 Bedrooms | 4 Bathrooms

$679,000 | 2 Bedrooms | 1 Bathrooms

This cosy half duplex is tucked away on a no thru street and offers great privacy indoors and out. Tastefully updated, this meticulously maintained home is turnkey. Open concept living room,dining area and kitchen are filled with natural light. Two bedrooms, a full bathroom, laundry and storage complete the main floor. Upstairs is a large bright primary bedroom,full bathroom and entry to a huge sunsoaked deck. Parking for two vehicles and private lower patio & garden with large raspberry patch.

Here is the View Royal townhome you have been waiting for! This spacious 3-bed, 4-bath end unit is set in a beautiful, peaceful complex surrounded by towering old-growth trees. With a large 2 car garage & space for 2 vehicles in the driveway, this is great family home! This home is in close proximity to schools, all amenities, the hospital, & the ocean! This property has a lot to offer, & so much potential!

Views, views and more views! With windows on three sides, this bright & beautifully renovated home is turnkey, just move in and enjoy! With two 5x10 balconies, a nice cross breeze will help keep you cool in the summer. A spacious entry greets you and leads you into the open living room. Beachy wood floors throughout keep it light and airy. A gourmet high end kitchen with granite countertops & backsplash, is truly the heart of the home and is perfect for entertaining.

Learn More at www.KristaVMarkG.ca Krista Voitchovsky

Mark Gutknecht

Personal Real Estate Corporation Mobile +1 250-888-3256 KristaVandMarkGTeam@evrealestate.com

Real Estate Advisor Mobile +1 250-880-1000 KristaVandMarkGTeam@evrealestate.com

Engel & Volkers Vancouver Island 2249 Oak Bay Avenue | Victoria BC | V8R 1G4

314BessboroughAvenue.com

$2,850,000

2618MillBayRoad.com

$1,358,000

5 BED | 4 BATH | 4,305 sq.ft. View Royal

3 BED | 2 BATH | 2,035 sq.ft. Mill Bay

5208HaroldGreen.com

923WhisperwindPlace.com

$1,399,000

$1,275,000

4 BED | 3 BATH | 2,335 sq.ft. Cordova Bay

5 BED | 3 BATH | 3,392 sq.ft. Bear Mountain

441GlendowerRoad.com

4673BoulderwoodDrive.com

412SeaviewPlace.com

$3,750,000

$2,599,000

$1,670,000

Saanich West

Saanich East

Cobble Hill

250.386.8181

Vancouver Island’s #1 RE/MAX Team

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SUNSETS, SAILS, AND SEASIDE LIVING

$2,490,000 | MLS#1038826 This beautifully updated semi-oceanfront home seamlessly blends modern luxury with an enviable West Coast lifestyle. Inside, premium upgrades abound, featuring designer Bocci lighting, high-end appliances, cozy fireplaces, and a spa-inspired primary retreat. Outside, a scenic deck and fire table provide the perfect front-row seat to breathtaking water views, with seaside trails and bayside activities just steps away.

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food & feast

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The perfect place for storm watching Recipes to guide you through rougher seas from Breakwater Café + Bistro WORDS BREAKWATER CAFÉ + BISTRO PHOTOGRAPHY DON DENTON

There is a walk that nearly every Victorian has taken at least once, and that many take again and again; out along the broad stone jetty at Ogden Point, past the lighthouse at the end, with the Strait of Juan de Fuca opening wide to the south and the Olympic Mountains holding the horizon. Locals do it in rain gear, visitors do it once, and talk about it for years. And at the landward end of that walk, where the salt air gives way to the smell of fresh espresso and something good coming off a kitchen pass, sits the Breakwater Café + Bistro. Established in 2012, though this corner of the James Bay waterfront has been feeding people for much longer, first as the Ogden Point Café for nearly two decades before. What began as a single café has grown, gradually and with intention, into something layered and alive: a to-go café serving house-crafted espresso drinks; a bistro featuring fresh, locally sourced West Coast-inspired dishes with the best views of the Salish Sea and sunsets over the Olympic Mountains; a bistro bar where the cocktail program holds its own against any room in the city; and a cosy, candlelit tasting room downstairs available for private events for groups of 20 to 120. And of course the beloved Overboard Ice Cream, made in-house in classic and seasonal flavours with dairy-free and vegan options. What ties it all together is something harder to put on a menu. Casual and approachable, but we take what we do seriously. The food is made with care. The drinks are made with intention. The people who work here genuinely love the space they call their workplace – and that has a way of crossing the pass and landing on the table. As autumn settles over the coast and the summer crowds give way to the regulars in our local community, the kitchen turns toward the season. Menus get warmer. Cocktails go deeper. The coffee stays flowing. Here, in that spirit of warm embrace, are three recipes from our kitchen – a taste of the Breakwater to bring home this fall. boulevardmagazines.com

Sauerkraut Avocado Toast

with masala chickpeas, chili oil and sunny-side-up egg

This is not the avocado toast you've had before. The components take a little time but each one keeps well and rewards the effort many times over. Make them ahead and the morning itself becomes effortless. Red cabbage sauerkraut Slice red cabbage thinly and wash under cold water (cleanliness matters here, so take care with your hands and work surface). Allow most of the water to drip away, then transfer to a bowl and weigh the cabbage. Add two per cent of that weight in salt and mix thoroughly until the cabbage begins to release its liquid. Pack it into a sterilized crock pot, cover with water, and press down with crock pot weights to keep the cabbage submerged. Leave it on the counter for three to four days. The finished sauerkraut should be lightly tangy with a pleasant crunch not overly salty. Store in a sealed container in the refrigerator, where it will keep for several weeks. Garam masala Combine the following whole spices and blend in a high-powered blender until finely powdered: 8 Bay Leaves 8 Cinnamon Sticks 2 tbsp. Fennel Seed 1 tbsp. Cardamom 1 tbsp. Coriander Seed 1 tbsp. Peppercorns 4 Star Anise ½ tbsp. Cloves *If whole spices or a high-powered blender aren't on hand, a quality storebought garam masala will work. Masala chickpeas Rinse canned chickpeas under cold water and allow them to dry completely; the drier they are, the crispier they'll get. Deep fry or pan fry in oil until golden and crisp. While still hot, dust generously with the prepared garam masala and toss to coat. Allow to cool before storing. Chili oil Combine 125 ml red chili flakes with 500 ml of avocado oil, extra virgin olive oil, or canola oil in a small saucepan. Warm slowly over low heat until the flakes begin to toast and the kitchen fills with their fragrance; don't rush it. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely, then strain away the flakes and reserve the deeply coloured, fragrant oil. It keeps well and is useful for many dishes. To assemble: Toast one slice of Portofino French loaf or your preferred bread. Warm the sauerkraut briefly in a frying pan and spread it across the toast. Scatter masala chickpeas over the top and drizzle with balsamic reduction. Fan a ripe avocado half over everything, then drape a freshly fried egg – sunny-side-up, or as you prefer – across the avocado. Finish with a few micro greens and a final drizzle of chili oil. Serve immediately.

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SEPTEMBER 8 – OCTOBER 4, 2026

“uproarious…irreverent… political rom-com…a gift” - Intermission Magazine

Crab Arancini

with roasted red pepper and tomato sauce (Serves 4)

These crab arancini are the kind of thing that disappears from the plate before you've had a chance to sit down. The roasted red pepper and tomato sauce beneath them is bold enough to hold its own, and the whole dish comes together in a way that feels far more impressive than the effort involved. Begin with the sauce, then the risotto and finish everything together. Roasted red pepper and tomato sauce In a medium saucepan, sauté half a small onion (roughly chopped) and 2 celery sticks (roughly chopped) with 2 tbsp. butter and 2 cloves of garlic until translucent. Add 1,000 ml crushed canned tomatoes and 500 ml roughly chopped canned roasted red peppers. Cook on medium heat for 30 minutes. Add 10 sprigs of roughly chopped cilantro, 1 tsp. vegetable stock base, ½ tsp. black pepper, ½ tsp. salt, and 1 tsp. oregano. Cook for a further 5 minutes. Blend with a hand blender until mostly smooth but still with some texture. Stir in 100 ml heavy cream and set aside to rest.

BY FRANCES KONCAN Pay-What-You-Want Tickets 250-385-6815 | belfry.bc.ca

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Crab risotto Ingredients: 400 ml Seafood Stock (or 400 ml water with 5 ml seafood paste) 1 tbsp. Butter 100 g Risotto Rice 75 ml Cooked Crab Meat 25 ml Mascarpone (or cream cheese) 10 g Grated Parmesan Pinch of Dried Thyme (or 1-2 sprigs fresh) Pinch of Dried Nutmeg (or 1-2 rasps fresh) Bring the seafood stock to a low boil. In a separate saucepan, heat the butter over medium-low and add the risotto rice, stirring constantly. Begin adding the warm stock a ladleful at a time, allowing each addition to absorb before adding the next. Never stop stirring, and never let the heat climb too high. This should take 15 to 20 minutes. If all the stock is absorbed and the rice still has bite, add a little more water and continue until just cooked through.

When the rice is nearly done, add the crab meat, mascarpone, parmesan, thyme and nutmeg. Stir until the mixture becomes very thick and sticky – it should be difficult to stir. Turn out onto a small baking tray and allow to cool completely. Once cooled, form into balls roughly 2 inches in diameter. They should hold their shape well if the risotto was cooked correctly. Prepare three shallow dishes: one with beaten egg, one with flour and one with panko breadcrumbs. Coat each ball in flour, then egg, then panko. To Finish: Heat 2 litres of oil in a deep pot over medium heat. When hot, fry the arancini for 2 minutes until deep golden brown, then transfer to a 300°F oven for 10 minutes to heat through. If deep frying isn't an option, they may go directly into the oven; they will be slightly less crisp but no less delicious. To Plate: Ladle 150 ml of the warm red pepper and tomato sauce into a large bowl. Arrange 3 arancini on top and finish with freshly grated parmesan and a few leaves of fresh basil.

As autumn settles over the coast and the summer crowds give way to the regulars in our local community, the kitchen turns toward the season. Menus get warmer. Cocktails go deeper. The coffee stays flowing. boulevardmagazines.com

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Gluten-Free Chocolate Torte

with raspberry coulis and whipped cream Makes 12

Some desserts ask you to choose between richness and elegance – this one doesn't. Dense with dark chocolate and lifted by a whisper of espresso and cinnamon. A spoonful of raspberry coulis cuts through the depth of the chocolate beautifully and a cloud of whipped cream finishes it. Ingredients: 6 Eggs ¾ cup Sugar 1 cup Dark Chocolate, melted ¾ cup Butter, melted 70 g Cocoa Powder ½ tbsp. Espresso ⅛ tsp. Baking Powder ⅛ tsp. Salt ⅛ tsp. Cinnamon Whipping cream & raspberry coulis, to serve

Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a 12-cup muffin tin with well-oiled liners. In a stand mixer, whip the eggs on medium speed for a full 10 minutes; this is the step that gives the torte its lift, so don't rush it. While the eggs are working, combine the melted chocolate, melted butter, cocoa, espresso, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon in a large mixing bowl and stir until smooth. Once the eggs are well whipped, increase the mixer to high and slowly pour in the sugar. When fully incorporated, gently fold the egg mixture into the chocolate mixture in stages, taking care not to deflate the volume you've worked to build. Portion evenly into the prepared muffin cups and bake for 20 to 22 minutes, until set at the edges with a slight give at the centre. Allow to cool completely before serving. The tortes keep well in the refrigerator for several days, if you don’t eat them first. To serve, top generously with freshly whipped cream and a spoonful of raspberry coulis.

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travel

Surrounded by geothermal energy Explore the hidden gem that is São Miguel WORDS LAUREN KRAMER

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The Twin Lakes of Sete Cidades

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Caldeiras das Furnas

n my early 20s I shouldered a heavy backpack and trekked around Greece and Turkey with two high school friends. On a tight budget, we survived on yogurt and fruit, hitchhiked and slept in campsites to save money. Thirty years went by and we all moved away, our careers and lives leading us in vastly different directions. However, we decided to meet up again in 2026 and as we poured over world maps searching for a midway point between our homes, the only place that made sense was smack dab in the middle of nowhere. São Miguel, the largest island in the Portuguese Azores archipelago, became the tectonic venue for our long-awaited reunion. A dot of land roughly 1,500 km from Portugal’s mainland, São Miguel is one of the Azores’ nine volcanic islands and has three active volcanoes. 74

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On São Miguel, you’re surrounded by geothermal energy. We joined locals for blissful dips in steaming thermal pools throughout the island, emerging relaxed and sleepy. We donned aprons and met a chef in the parish of Furnas to learn about cozido, a traditional meaty stew which is lowered into holes in the ground and cooked by geothermal steam. We tried it for dinner, tasting the unique, smoky flavour infused by sulphuric gases deep inside the earth. We watched waves crash onto black volcanic sand beaches and peered over steep cliffs where jumbles of black basalt lava rocks recall long ago eruptions. And we drove the winding roads of São Miguel, amazed to spot columns of smoke emanating from the ground as geothermal heat found new escape routes. On a tour with 4x4 Azores, our guide Pedro Vieira describes his love for the island. “Life here is so much simpler than in a big city,”

Voted

Best 1 City

of the

VIC NEWS.COM

YEAR

202 6

32nd

A cozido cooking class PHOTO BY LAUREN KRAMER

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Parque Terra Nostra

The slopes of a tea farm

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PHOTO BY LAUREN KRAMER

he notes. “People are always friendly and relaxed, and the quality of life is fantastic.” His ancestors arrived more than 500 years ago and he’s never considered leaving. As we drive along the picturesque, narrow country roads, past small parishes that date back centuries, it isn’t hard to see why. The island is a stunning mass of greenery with soaring mountains, spectacular views around every turn, and lush grassy slopes where cows graze peacefully. We pull over at vistas, gazing at the Atlantic Ocean stretching endlessly into the distance. Around us, tree-size ferns unfurled tendrils into the sky and hydrangea bushes proliferate like weeds, filling the island with colour. The scenery is so primeval and Jurassic, you half expect to see a dinosaur lumbering across the land. No one comes to São Miguel for shopping, nightlife or souvenirs. While tourism is a major source of revenue for the Azores, there’s nothing touristy about this island, and for three 54-year-old women who have already travelled the world, that was a big part of its appeal. We hoped to avoid crowds, noise and traffic, and we found the answer here, where peacefulness prevails no matter where you find yourself. As we travel around the island, all we hear are birdsongs, the rustle of trees in the wind and the thundering crash of waves on the beaches. Pedro drives us to Sete Cidades, where a collapsed volcano created a massive crater, now filled with two side-by-side lakes, one green and one blue. From the viewpoint, 700 metres above sea level, the day went from T-shirt sunny to raincoat chilly, highlighting the island’s vastly different microclimates. During our week-long visit we learn quickly that while São Miguel is easily traversed in three-and-a-half hours, you have to pack for summer and winter every day. The weather changes quickly and unpredictably from sunshine to rolling fog, with mist often so dense you can’t see more than 10 feet ahead. As a result, we keep our schedule flexible. But while we’d planned to swim at Ponta da Ferraria, one of the few places in the world where geothermal water bubbles directly into the ocean, it was not meant to

PHOTO BY LAUREN KRAMER

be. We timed our visit carefully to coincide with low tide and were primed to feel the hot, natural spring water mix with the cold Atlantic. We hadn’t accounted for wind or rough water though, and with waves smashing forcefully against the rocks, entry was impossible. Instead, we head to Caldeira Velha, where three thermal pools are ensconced in a forest. The hot water is courtesy of the Fogo Volcano, which last erupted in 1563 and is expected to erupt again in the next 60 to 80 years. For now, bathers sit in the thermal water, absorbing the quiet serenity as their muscles are soothed. Later, we explore the island’s agriculture, walking the slopes of an organic tea farm and touring a pineapple plantation. “São Miguel would be self-sustaining if not for tourism,” Pedro notes. The volcanic soil is fertile ground for growing fruit and vegetables, and with more cows than people on the island, there’s an ample supply of beef and enough milk to support a full dairy. The most fascinating parish, we found, on São Miguel is Furnas, a centuries-old, picturesque town located in a valley inside a massive volcanic crater. Here, jaw-dropping geothermal activity is everywhere. We walk through Caldeiras das Furnas, a park in the village centre where scalding hot water bubbles and splashes furiously. Steam emanates from manholes, gutters and grates and the smell of sulphur hangs heavy in the air. Lava is just 100 to 200 metres below the surface, a constant reminder this volcano is extremely active. Mesmerized, we watch the bubbling water erupt from the ground and flow through streams that run through the town. The parish is also home to Parque Terra Nostra, a magnificent botanical garden with a large, mustard-coloured geothermal pool as its centrepiece. We join other visitors, sinking into the iron-rich water, and later, with tingling skin, we walk the garden trails, dotted with trees from all over the world. The more than 30-acre garden began in 1775, and its giant sequoias, ancient ginkgo biloba and English oaks are still flourishing.

MAYFAIR CENTRE 226-3147 Douglas Street 250.590.3319 VICTORIA 636 Broughton Street 250.383.6133 SIDNEY 2492 Beacon Avenue 250.656.0510

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The island pulsates with activity – above and below the surface – the volcanos raising their heads at unexpected intervals as if to say ‘never forget I am here.'

On our way back to Ponta Delgada, the island’s largest city, we stop at Vila Franca do Campo. The coastal town on the south shore was the island’s capital until 1522, when a landslide triggered by an earthquake wiped out the entire parish overnight. Here, we board a boat with a guide from Vila Watersports, and head out to the Vila Franca Islet. The islet, with steep rock walls that soar 200 feet above the water, was formed by a submerged volcanic crater 4,000 years ago. Once privately owned, it’s now a well-protected marine sanctuary with a pristine, circular lagoon where locals picnic and swim on hot summer days. As we skirt the perimeter, nesting seagulls and terns watched us from the cliffs and bright red crabs scuttled over the rocks. “The tectonic plates that formed the island are shifting to this day,” our guide notes, pointing at dramatic fissures in the basalt lava rock. Two cliffs separated by tectonic movement are connected by a tenuous natural bridge that looks ready to plunge into the waves at any moment. Below us, a labyrinth of submerged caves are filled with blue pompano fish, constantly flushed by strong ocean currents. It just proves that as you travel across São Miguel, you get a riveting glimpse at active geology in motion. The island pulsates with activity – above and below the surface – the volcanos raising their heads at unexpected intervals as if to say “never forget I am here.” For three friends on a long-awaited reunion, this tectonic island was unforgettable. A place where human and natural history coalesce in an unforgettable, awe-inspiring destination.

Vila Franca Islet

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Our Projects since the 2015 Nepal Earthquakes

ABIN Board members Craig & Rob with Deaf students & former student, now teacher, at Mahendra School & Dormitory dedication ceremony, October 2023

We need your support.

Bandevi School, Nuwakot Completed: May 2018 | Cost: $33,000

Sharada Secondary School, Trisule

There is no denying that we are living in an era of global aggression, unrest, and a general shrinking of government support and awareness for the less fortunate on our planet.

Completed: May 2019 | Cost: $90,000

The board and volunteers of Victoria-based, Canadian Registered Charity, Another Brick In Nepal, believe that now, more than ever, is a time to demonstrate that supporting those in need — both near and far — remains a core part of what it means to be human.

We are a 100% volunteer charity which means that all team members have always carried their own costs on any mission to Nepal. Please consider donating at anotherbrickinnepal.com or scan the QR code.

Him School, Swachi Completed: May 2020 | Cost: $55,000

Mahendra School for the Deaf, Khandbari Completed: April 2023 | Cost: $94,000

Kharang Sharada School, Chainpur Completed: October 2023 Cost: $62,000

Khandbari Women’s Safe House, Khandbari Completed: March 2025 Cost: $230,000

Udayapur Women’s Safe House, Gaighat Bandevi School, Nuwakot

Another Brick In Nepal is a registered Canadian charity.

Under construction. Estimated completion: September 2026 Cost: $70,000

secrets and lives — AND THE 7 SINS with ANDREA MINTER

PHOTOGRAPHY MICHELLE PROCTOR

Owner of Russell Books

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WHERE WERE YOU BORN AND WHERE DID YOU GROW UP? I was born and raised right here in Victoria.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR CAREER PATH?

I have been fortunate to continue our family legacy of running our bookstore in downtown Victoria. After graduating from the University of Victoria, I initially thought I would pursue a career related to physical education, sports or recreation. Instead, my path led me back to running our family business which I couldn’t be more proud of.

WHAT IS THE ONE ASPECT OF YOUR WORK THAT REALLY GETS YOU FIRED UP?

I love connecting with people, whether it is my colleagues, customers or friends. Building relationships, hearing people’s stories, creating meaningful experiences and being an active part of our community are truly what drive me.

WHAT ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT OUTSIDE OF WORK?

My family is my greatest joy. I love spending quality time together – staying active, going for runs, enjoying the outdoors, playing soccer and making memories with the people who mean the most to me.

WHAT’S THE BEST LIFE LESSON YOU’VE LEARNED IN THE LAST FIVE YEARS?

To slow down and appreciate the moments that matter most. The people we love, the connections we make and the experiences we share are truly what matter most in life.

WHICH OF YOUR INNATE QUALITIES OR DAILY PRACTICES HAS LED TO YOUR SUCCESS?

Building relationships, staying curious, showing up and treating people with kindness and respect. I believe success comes from listening, working hard, always being willing to grow and approaching each day with gratitude.

WHAT IS ONE THING THAT CONSISTENTLY LIFTS YOUR SPIRITS DURING HARD TIMES?

My family – their love, laughter and presences is what truly matters.

READING MATERIAL Fave magazine: Boulevard, of course, I also splurge with a HELLO! Last great read:

The 7 Sins ENVY: Whose shoes would you like to walk in?

Someone who leaves every person and every place a little better than they found it. I admire people who lead with kindness, inspire others and make a real difference.

GLUTTONY: What is the food you could eat over and over again?

Fresh tacos, sushi and a beautiful charcuterie board. I don’t think I could ever get tired of any of them.

GREED: You’re given $1 million that you have to spend selfishly. What would you spend it on?

I’d pack up my family and travel the world. Experiencing different cultures together has always been a dream of mine and those memories would be priceless.

WRATH: Pet peeves?

I don’t really have pet peeves, but I really value kindness and people who treat others with respect. Life is so much better when people treat each other with respect.

SLOTH: Where would you spend a long time doing nothing?

On a beach, without question. Sunshine, white sand, the sound of the waves and nowhere to be – that’s my happy place.

PRIDE: What is the one thing you’re secretly proud of ?

The family we’ve built. Watching my children grow into kind, resilient and compassionate people is my greatest accomplishment.

LUST: What makes your heart beat faster?

Adventure. Whether it’s a challenging hike, a roller coaster, or exploring somewhere new, I love experiences that push me out of my comfort zone and remind me to feel fully alive.

Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt Book currently reading:

Little House on the Prairies by Laura Ingalls Wilder

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behind the story

For this issue our fashion team – photographer Michelle Proctor, stylist Jen Evans and makeup artist Jen Clark – were delighted to work with the talented Debs Howard. You may recognize this Victoria-based actor who recently shared the silver screen with Jennifer Lawrence and Robert Pattinson in the psychological drama, Die My Love, which was adapted from Ariana Harwicz’s novel. Debs is an award-nominated actor whose work spans acclaimed feature films, television dramas and leading roles in romantic comedies. Follow more of her career on Instagram (@DebsHoward). Boulevard Magazine, along with our fashion team, would also like to send a special thank you to local fashion brand Reclamation, which made several of the pieces in this issue’s fashion spread. You can find more of their work online at wearereclamation.com.

WORDS KATHERINE ENGQVIST PHOTO MICHELLE PROCTOR

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Dance at the Royal Series

Christos Papadopoulos / The Lion and the Wolf NOV 6 + 7

Martha Graham Dance Company JAN 29 + 30

Kidd Pivot Gauthier Dance / Dance Company Theaterhaus Stuttgart APR 23 + 24

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Out Innerspace Dance Theatre OCT 24

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Martha Graham Dance Company in Diversion of Angels. Photo: Deborah Ory. Courtesy of NYC Dance Project

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Built for the way you live. Start your custom home project at falconheights.ca Photography: Tony Colangelo