Dolce Spring 2015

Fashion and Philanthropy: The Balanced Life of

SUZANNE ROGERS

Publications Mail Agreement # 40026675

The return of the Acura NSX, the second act for Sotto Sotto and the serenity of Echo House

SINCE 1996

THE INFECTIOUS ZEN OF

RAJ KOTHARI

MIKHAEL KALE

THE PRINCE OF CANADIAN WOMENSWEAR

SPRING 2015 US / CDN $10.00 DISPLAY IN FASHION / LIFESTYLE UNTIL JUNE 18 24

spring 2015

www.dolcemag.com

|

DOLCE MAGAZINE 1

0

74470 94926

8

2 DOLCE MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com

spring 2015

L O R I M O R R I S . C O M | P. 4 1 6 . 9 7 2 . 1 5 1 5 @HOUSEOFLMD

spring 2015

www.dolcemag.com

|

DOLCE MAGAZINE 3

4 DOLCE MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com

www.vspparis.com

spring 2015

PORTO MONTENEGRO

THE MEDITERRANEAN’S LEADING L U X U R Y YA C H T H O M E P O R T AND MARINA VILLAGE

‘SUPERYACHT MARINA OF THE YEAR’ – TYHA 2015 (BERTHS FROM 12M TO 180M) LUXURY WATERFRONT RESIDENCES WITH UNOBSTRUCTED SEA AND MOUNTAIN VIEWS REGENT HOTEL & RESIDENCES INTERNATIONAL FASHION BOUTIQUES, RESTAURANTS AND SPA

W W W. P O R TO M O N T E N E G R O.CO M spring 2015

www.dolcemag.com

|

DOLCE MAGAZINE 5

D E S H ÔT E L S DA N S L’A I R D U T E M P S

Agence Rio Grande - Photos D.R.

One of the best locations in Paris

HÔTEL VERNET ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Paris - Champs-Elysées T. : + 33 (0)1 44 31 98 00 - reservations@hotelvernet.com - www.hotelvernet.com

6 DOLCE MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com

spring 2015

MEET THE AMBASSADOR SYLVIA MANTELLA Chief Marketing Officer at Mantella Corporation, Philanthropist and Fashion Icon According to style icon Sylvia Mantella, fashion is always driven by a deeper purpose. Much more than fabric pieces sewn together, accessories are wearable works of art and have the power to shift the world in a better direction. This is what inspired her to join Amore Bags.

Each authentic, refurbished doctor’s bag carries a legacy, and proceeds from every sale support Médecins Sans Frontières/ Doctors Without Borders (MSF) — a worthy cause for a leading fashion icon.

“As a very proud owner of four Amore Bags, it’s clear that I love them! I love that they represent giving back, hope and, of course, love. Every Amore Bag started as a simple vintage doctor’s bag but through the pure passion of Michelle Zerillo-Sosa, each bag is turned into a one-of-a-kind beautifully hand-painted and functional piece of art. I have yet to wear any one of my Amore Bags out and it not be the centre of conversation.”

— Sylvia Mantella

amorebags.ca In Support of

If you are the proud owner of an Amore Bag, contact us to be profiled as the next Amore Ambassador. spring 2015

www.dolcemag.com

|

DOLCE MAGAZINE 7

SPRING 2015 • VOLUME 19 • ISSUE 1 Publisher/Editor-in-Chief MICHELLE ZERILLO-SOSA michelle@dolce.ca Director of Editorial SIMONA PANETTA simona@dolce.ca Director of Operations ANGELA PALMIERI-ZERILLO angela@dolce.ca

ART DEPARTMENT Co-Founder/Creative Director FERNANDO ZERILLO fernando@dolce.ca Web Project Manager STEVE BRUNO Senior Graphic Designers CHRISTINA BAN, LUAY SAIG Web Designer YENA YOO

EDITORIAL DEPARTMENT Copy Editor SIMONA PANETTA Fashion & Home Décor Editor MICHELLE ZERILLO-SOSA Beauty & Travel Editor ANGELA PALMIERI-ZERILLO Proofreaders NINA HOESCHELE, SIMONA PANETTA Writers MICHAEL HILL, AMANDA STOREY Contributing Photographers JOHN BLAIS, BRIAN BOYLE, JAG DHANJU, JEFF HERR, EVAAN KHERAJ, ARNAUD MARTHOURET, JESSE MILNS, JOHN PACKMAN, AMY PECK, GEORGE PIMENTEL PHOTOGRAPHY, BEN RAHN, STEVE TSAI, FELIX WONG

VIDEO DEPARTMENT Videographer DANIEL A. COOPER

ADVERTISING Director of New Business Development SUSAN BHATIA susan@dolce.ca Director of Marketing ANGELA PALMIERI-ZERILLO angela@dolce.ca Account Manager MARIO BALACEANU

ADVERTISING INQUIRIES T: 905-264-6789 Toll-Free: 1-888-68-DOLCE info@dolce.ca • www.dolcemag.com Office Administrator ALESSANDRA MICIELI Front Cover SUZANNE ROGERS Photo By Evaan Kheraj

Dolce Magazine is published quarterly by Dolce Media Group, 111 Zenway Blvd., Suite 30, Vaughan, Ont., L4H 3H9 T: 905-264-6789, Toll-Free: 1-888-68-DOLCE, F: 905-264-3787, info@dolce.ca, www.dolcemedia.ca Correction: In the Winter 2014/15 issue of Dolce Magazine, in a picture caption accompanying the article titled “David Rocco’s Dolce Vita,” page 32, we wrote that Per Lui co-owner Paul’s last name was “Doreli.” The correct spelling of his name is Aureli, not Doreli.

Publication Mail Agreement No. 40026675. All rights reserved. Any reproduction is strictly prohibited without written consent from the publisher.

Dolce Magazine reaches over 900,000 affluent readers annually through household distribution and newsstand sales across Canada and at all Barnes & Noble stores in the United States.

Inquiries about where else Dolce Magazine is available for sale may be directed to Dolce Media Group: info@dolce.ca or 905-264-6789.

The yearly subscription fee is CDN $34 and US $48. Send cheque or money order to Dolce Media Group, 111 Zenway Blvd., Suite 30, Vaughan, Ont., L4H 3H9, Canada The opinions expressed in Dolce Magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher or advertisers. Dolce Media Group does not assume liability for content. The material in this magazine is intended for information purposes only and is in no way intended to supersede professional advice.

We are proud to be a Canadian company that has successfully published magazines for the past 19 years without any government funding or financial assistance of programs to cover editorial costs. It has all been possible thanks to the wonderful support of our readers and advertisers.

ISSN 1206-17780 Next Issue: Summer 2015 ©2015 Dolce Media Group. Printed in Canada.

Printed in Canada

This magazine is printed on Recycled Paper.

Up to

8 DOLCE MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com

Follow us at:

twitter.com/dolcemag

facebook.com/dolceluxurymagazine

spring 2015

spring 2015

www.dolcemag.com

|

DOLCE MAGAZINE 9

PUBLISHER’S Note Life is like a coin. You can spend it any way you wish, but you can only spend it once

H

— Lillian Dickson

ave you ever asked yourself what you stand for? Who you’re supposed to be in the eyes of strangers? Their opinions and comments might be quite different than how you see yourself.

Someone who has never had the opportunity to meet you in person might form an opinion based on what they see, hence the judging-the-book-by-its-cover idiom. You might be surprised at how common the act of judging is nowadays, thanks to a time-starved society that seems to know everything and everyone based on the social footprints we make on Instagram and Twitter.

This might be the case with Suzanne Rogers. When you see her at events — impeccably dressed and always surrounded by friends who look like they just stepped off a fashion runway — it’s easier to make assumptions of her being self-centred, self-absorbed and with not a care in the world.

But if one would take a closer look, one would see that this is someone who is truly interested in sharing her spotlight with those who are less fortunate. Her sense of style is not to cast a shadow on others — it’s to attract the attention and hearts of those who can join in her crusade to help less-championed charities and foundations.

At a recent fundraiser, I bumped into Suzanne and asked her if she would be up to allowing Dolce Magazine in her

home for a sit-down interview. She was very kind and polite about it. As soon as we exchanged our goodbyes, a doorman at the establishment approached her to confirm whether she was who he thought she was. Once his question was met with a positive reply, the young man’s eyes sparkled with joy as he asked Suzanne if he could take a picture with her. With her ladylike poise she smiled for the photo. I loved this!

So much can be said about someone who does not lead their life by title but by mere example. I hope you enjoy this intimate interview with Suzanne Rogers.

After all, this is a driven woman who has learned to pursue happiness by creating the same for others.

Until next issue, remember that life is like a coin … Happy shopping!

Michelle Zerillo-Sosa Publisher/Editor-in-Chief

@dolcetweets | michelle@dolce.ca

Dolce Magazine The Honey of Life Sin

ce 1996

WE’RE HIRING EXCEPTIONAL READERS. EXCEPTIONAL CLIENTS. EXCEPTIONAL SALES PROFESSIONALS. If you meet this standard as a business development professional, we look forward to meeting you.

M A G A Z I N E

Email info@dolce.ca with your cover letter and resumé.

www.dolcemedia.ca | 905.264.6789 10 DOLCE MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com

spring 2015

spring 2015

www.dolcemag.com

|

DOLCE MAGAZINE 11

CONTENTS

54

HARDD CANDY

SPRING 2015 / VOLUME 19 / ISSUE 1

These e sparkly, s sugary pieces will satisfy your sweet tooth

46

36

THE OTHER SIDE OF THE COIN Suzanne Rogers weighs in on a life lived with perspective and balance

AUTO

The Acura N NSX takes a giant leap forward

34

OBJECTS OF DESIRE Turn to the cosmos for a head-turning statement piece

66

REINVENTING THE RESTAURANT

72

Barteca Restaurant Group brings the unexpected to the table

THE GOOD MAN PricewaterhouseCoopers exec Raj Kothari on business and selflessness

26

Q&A WITH MIKHAEL KALE

38

Our conversation with Canada’s Womenswear Designer of the Year is as entrancing as his runway creations

VACATIONS FOR THE RICH AND THE RESTLESS Adventure-seeking billionaire Bobby Genovese wants to ship you off on an unquiet, unforgettable getaway ON THE COVER Photographed by Evaan Kheraj, Suzanne Rogers wears a strapless Mary Katrantzou dress, vintage earrings and vintage pink bracelets from Paris at her home in Toronto. See story on page 46 55 LA PRIMAVERA Ralph & Russo’s magical spring-summer collection blooms to life 28 THE ECHO HOUSE The Toronto Bridle Path estate with plenty of space for serenity More stories inside ...

12 DOLCE MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com

spring 2015

spring 2015

www.dolcemag.com

|

DOLCE MAGAZINE 13

DOLCE WAS THERE

THE

BOOK LOVER’S

David Delaney

BALL 2015

Returning for its 10th year, the Book Lover’s Ball took place at the Toronto Reference Library on Feb. 5, bringing together over 800 book lovers and Canadian and international literary talent. This year’s event, which introduced its first-ever after-party, raised more than $565,000 to benefit the Toronto Public Library Foundation.

Helen Burstyn Amy Burstyn Fritz

Kirsten Melville-Gray Brittney Kuczynski

www.bookloversball.ca

Bryan Baeumler

Mary Ito

David Chilton Bruce Croxon Michael Hyatt

PHOTOS BY GEORGE PIMENTEL

Sarah Baeumler

2015 CFC ANNUAL GALA & AUCTION:

The Canadian Film Centre (CFC)’s biggest fundraising event returned to Toronto on Feb. 4 as the 2015 CFC Annual Gala & Auction took over the Carlu. The event was themed “Televisionaries,” celebrating the CFC’s global partnerships in television and honouring its alumni talent that have been involved in many successful international television series.

PHOTOS BY SAM SANTOS AND ERNESTO DI STEFANO (GEORGE PIMENTEL PHOTOGRAPHY)

“TELEVISIONARIES” Nefe

www.cfccreates.com

Anita Sanoubane

Jyoti Gill Jean-Marie Heimrath Lorraine Heimrath

Amy Jo Johnson

14 DOLCE MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com

Jessica Adams

Ayah Norris

Katie Camaret

Jennifer Mesich

spring 2015

www.dolcemag.com

|

DOLCE MAGAZINE 15

DOLCE WAS THERE

Mikhael Kale

Sylvia Mantella

Kimberley Newport-Mimran

Joseph Mimran

Vicky Milner

Brittney Kuczynski

2015 CANADIAN ARTS &

FASHION AWARDS

Kardinal Offishall

Lyriq Bent

Sylvia Mantella

Canada’s fashion industry was buzzing with the return of the Canadian Arts & Fashion Awards on Jan. 31, bringing together the country’s style authorities. Mikhael Kale, Philippe Dubuc, Sid Neigum and Beaufille were among the winners of this year’s awards at the star-studded celebration at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel. www.cafawards.com

Chantelle Winnie

Sergio Sosa

Yasmin Warsame

Michelle Zerillo-Sosa

Glenn Dixon

Suzanne Rogers

Jenna Bitove Naumovich

16 DOLCE MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com

Moe Razi

spring 2015

Ask us about our special cash Purchase credits and lease rates on select Acura models.

S U P E R H A N D L I N G A L L - W H E E L D R I V E TM ( S H - AWD ® )

By continuously directing engine power to match driver input and driving conditions, the SH-AWD® system, available on select TLX and MDX models, provides seamless power transitions and control. Working alongside SH-AWD®, Agile Handling Assist actively applies braking to any of the four wheels independently, helping the vehicles pivot through every corner more accurately, aiding stability, maneuverability and control.

www.acura2000.com 2 2 5 0 Q U E E N S T. E . B R A M P T O N , O N L 6 S 5 X 9

TOLL FREE: 1.855.340.1469 EMAIL: sales@acura2000.com

*Selling price is $30,320 // $43,820 // $52,420 // $37,120 on a new 2015 Acura ILX (DE1F3FJ) // 2015 Acura RDX (TB4H3FJN) // 2015 Acura MDX (YD4H2FJN) // 2015 Acura TLX (UB1F3FJ).

Selling prices include $1,995 freight and PDI, EHF tires ($29), EHF filters ($1), air conditioning tax ($100) and OMVIC fee ($5). License, insurance, registration and taxes (including GST/HST, as applicable) are extra. Some terms/conditions apply. Models shown for illustration purposes only. Dealer may sell/lease for less. Dealer order/trade may be necessary. While quantities last. © 2015 Acura, a division of Honda Canada Inc. Visit acura2000.com for more details.

spring 2015

www.dolcemag.com

|

DOLCE MAGAZINE 17

DOLCE WAS THERE

SAVELLI GENÈVE AUCTIONS OFF

BESPOKE PHONE AT AMFAR MILANO

Katia Kokoreva

At the sixth annual amfAR Milano gala held at Museo della Permanente in conjunction with Milan Fashion Week, revolutionary jewelry house Savelli Genève auctioned off one of its bespoke cellular devices.

Created specially for the occasion, the “Savelli Diamond Rain with pink gold, diamonds and green python” smartphone, along with the rest of the auction items, raised $1.4 million in support of amfAR’s AIDS research.

The special edition Savelli Genève smartphone

www.savelli-geneve.com

Anastassia Khozissova

Ashley Madekwe

PHOTOS COURTESY OF SAVELLI GENÈVE

Enrico Mambelli

Gala Gonzalez

Kristina Bazan Chiara Ferragni

THE PAGANI HUAYRA SUPERCAR UNVEILED AT MONTECITO

Stephen Tapp

Donovan Bailey

A rare Italian supercar was unveiled at Toronto’s Montecito Restaurant on Feb. 23. Local luminaries gathered for the exclusive evening event, which included incredible food and drink. www.montecitorestaurant.ca itorestaurant.c

MMT ANNOUNCES ES CAL SWISS HOROLOGICAL SMARTWATCH Along with partners Frederique ue Constant, Alpina and Mondaine, ne, MMT is launching its Swiss Horological Smartwatch on June 1, 2015. Powered by MotionX, X, these timepieces have bi-directional al communication with smartphone apps ps and other mind-blowing features.

The Pagani Huayra Supercar

The Frederique Constant Horological Smartwatch (left) and the Alpina Horological Smartwatch Smartw watc (right) Peter Stass S Sta St ttaa

Michelle Zerillo-Sosa

www.mmt.ch

18 DOLCE MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com

spring 2015

Executive Chef | Luigi Maresca

10519 Islington Avenue, Village of Kleinburg 905.893.7400 www.avenuecibievini.com

spring 2015

www.dolcemag.com

|

DOLCE MAGAZINE 19

A RICH HISTORY IN THE INDUSTRY and a diverse portfolio of satisfied clients has earned Justin R. Fogarty Professional Corporation (formerly Justin R. Fogarty Barrister & Solicitor) a renowned reputation across the country. Together with his associates, Mr. Fogarty utilizes unparalleled expertise, unique thinking and creative concepts to navigate businesses through the various complex issues they face in the corporate realm. With client satisfaction and comfort in mind, the trusted services provided by Mr. Fogarty and his team continues to deliver the utmost success to clients.

Counsel & Advisory • Bankruptcy, Insolvency & Restructuring Commercial Litigation • Corporate Governance Corporate Finance • Regulatory Counsel

Justin R. Fogarty Professional Corporation BA R R I STE R & S O LI C ITO R 416.840.8991 180 Bloor Street West, Suite 1000, Toronto, ON • 141 Laurier Avenue, Suite 1000, Ottawa, ON justinrfogarty.com

20 DOLCE MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com

spring 2015

Let Them Eat

Hair & Makeup Roger Medina, Wardrobe: Michelle Paiano, Set Stylist: Paige Weir / Judy Inc.

CAKE

est. 1968 WOODBRIDGE

5100 Rutherford Rd. (North of Islington Avenue)

905.893.2863 spring 2015

MAPLE

2563 Major Mackenzie Dr. (West of Keele Street)

905.832.5688 www.dolcemag.com

|

DOLCE MAGAZINE 21

22 DOLCE MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com

spring 2015

Fine Giftware

IMPORTED DIRECTLY FROM IITALY TALY TA YA AND ND F ND FRANCE RA AN NC CE

Rosy Blue is a haven for all who wish to inspire with fine, unique gifts and home décor pieces. From birthdays, anniversaries and weddings to religious milestones and other special celebrations, the carefully selected giftware, bomboniere and favours at Rosy Blue offer ample and beautiful ways to make your loved one’s special day memorable. An array of home accents imported from design capitals France and Italy will also add originality and sparkle to your home.

Rosy

Blue

Murano Glass • Capodimonte Ceramics and Porcelain Crystals and Silver • Personalized Favour Boxes Bomboniere

4040 Steeles Ave. West, Unit 6, Woodbridge, ON

905-856-5814

www.rosybluegiftware.com

spring 2015

www.dolcemag.com

|

DOLCE MAGAZINE 23

HIS

Ready for the spring awakening?

Dolce Magazine has picked through the beauty wares of local boutiques to find the top products you need without having to travel far TEXT BY AMANDA STOREY

PURE-FORMANCE 3-IN-1 BY AMERICAN CREW COMPOSITION FROM Sage leaf extract is an ingredient AVEDA MEN in this invigorating shampoo/ Certified organic essential conditioner/body wash, which oils like spearmint and revitalizes and restores hair and lavender blend with remineralizes skin | Available at citrus and kunzea in this Mankind Grooming at Richmond soothing, rejuvenating and Spadina scalp and hair treatment www.mankindgrooming.com Available at Aveda Experience Centre at Toronto Eaton Centre www.aveda.ca HIPPIE KILLER POMADE BY CROWN SHAVING CO. Inspired by old-school luxury and charm, Crown Shaving Co.’s grooming goods are “for vagabonds, gentlemen CARVEN POUR HOMME BY and ruffians.” This pomade CARVEN PARFUMS is no exception | Available at Woody, spicy and aromatic, this Blackbird Vintage Finds in the scent combines spontaneous Distillery District grapefruit, warm cedar and milky www.blackbirdvintage.com sandalwood to create a cologne fresher than spring itself Available at Holt Renfrew www.holtrenfrew.com

DOUBLEDUTY FACE MOISTURIZER BY JACK BLACK This lightweight elixir will keep your face fresh and protected this spring with built-in SPF 20 — and no, it wasn’t conjured by the comedian | Available at ManCave Barbers Lounge in the Annex www.mancavebarbers.ca 24 DOLCE MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com

spring 2015

COLOUR SO INTENSE MASCARA BY SISLEY Your lashes won’t know what hit them. Next-level length and colour bring your blink to life in this top-ofthe-line mascara that volumizes and fortifies Available exclusively at Holt Renfrew www.holtrenfrew.com SKIN STICK BY EARTH TU FACE Packaged in a 100 per cent compostable tube, pure beeswax and organic virgin olive oil heal and protect the skin in this all-purpose salve for face, lips and body Available at 6 by Gee Beauty in Rosedale www.6bygeebeauty.com

GLOBAL FACE SERUM BY LISA HANSON Called a “hidden gem of the industry,” this multi-tasking serum is vegan and cruelty-free, reduces wrinkles, calms irritation and lifts the mood | Available at Husk in Yorkville www.lovehusk.com

spring 2015

&HERS

VI BLUSH BY KIDE This light and oil-free blush uses natural ingredients to create a rosy springtime flush. Infused with diamonds, it reflects light to add a touch of radiance Available at The Detox Market on King West www.thedetoxmarket.com

NOURISH-MINT SMOOTHING LIP BALM

BY AVEDA New from its Rare Bloom Collection, Aveda’s NourishMint Smoothing Lip Balm in “Magenta Berry” kisses the lips with sweet colour and springy smoothness Available at Aveda Experience Centre at Toronto Eaton Centre www.aveda.ca www.dolcemag.com

|

DOLCE MAGAZINE 25

Q+ W

IT

A

H

MIKHAEL KALE At the height of his career, Canada’s hottest womenswear designer looks back on the lessons he learned on the rise, shares his thoughts on how Canucks are doing in the fashion race and spills his secret to surviving Fashion Week (hint: it involves Drake on repeat) INTERVIEW BY AMANDA STOREY PHOTOS BY FELIX WONG

Mikhael Kale won the Womenswear Designer of the Year Award at this year’s Canadian Arts & Fashion Awards

26 DOLCE MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com

Q: What do you love most about what you do?

A: The freedom to construct and deconstruct.

Q: Your show at the upcoming World MasterCard Fashion Week is already generating buzz. How are you preparing for it?

A: My team and I have locked ourselves in the studio and will most likely be there until Fashion Week.

Q: Any Fashion Week survival secrets you can share?

A: Drake on repeat. All day. Every day.

Q: Your label is described as “an exploration of the human form.” What about the human form fascinates and inspires you as an artist? What is your goal in exploring that form through fashion?

A: I am fascinated with taking apart a garment and studying that garment like a geneticist would take apart a cell and study DNA. My goal is to continue to break the boundaries of my understanding of the art form and use it as a vehicle of celebrating the human form.

Q: What legacy are you hoping to create with Mikhael Kale?

A: Remaining new and present.

Q: Who would you love to work with?

A: I’ve been working with Beyoncé — that’s been a highlight.

Q: What’s the most memorable lesson you learned working in this industry?

A: It is often very unsexy and insular.

Q: You’ve proved that tremendous success can still be reached while young. Do you have any words of advice for young professionals?

A: Be so busy that you drown out that noise. Youth is an advantage, not a limitation.

Q: As a Canadian designer, how would you say our country’s fashion industry is doing right now?

A: Canada has given birth to some of the most innovative, original and truly brilliant leaders of our time, and that’s not just limited to fashion. I believe the real challenge is recognizing, celebrating and fostering this enormous trajectory of Canadian talent. That needs to be at the forefront of every conversation in every industry in Canada.

Q: Favourite memory from New York Fashion Week this year?

A: Shooting our lookbook with stylist Tony Irvine.

Q: Who were you most inspired by as an aspiring designer?

A: Madame Grès.

Q: Outside of the studio, how do you prefer to spend your time?

A: Time? What time?

Q: What are your plans for the label this year?

A: To build ... one dress at a time. www.mikhaelkale.com spring 2015

Understanding that fashion is like a game of Truth or Dare, Mikhael Kale’s creations always challenge the wearer to a dare.

The Canadian designer’s SS15 collection is a testament to this, staying true to his adoration of modernism and futuristic style with unexpected pops of colour, an intriguing use of materials and game-changing cut-outs and silhouettes

spring 2015

www.dolcemag.com

|

DOLCE MAGAZINE 27

THE

ECHOHOUSE An Asian-inspired estate on Toronto’s Bridle Path utilizes notes of Eastern tradition and an immense respect for nature to create a space of serenity WRITTEN BY AMANDA STOREY PHOTOS BY BEN RAHN AND STEVE TSAI

28 DOLCE MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com

spring 2015

spring 2015

www.dolcemag.com

|

DOLCE MAGAZINE 29

“WHILE IT’S AN EXPANSIVE, SPACIOUS HOUSE, IT STILL FEELS INTIMATE WHEN THERE’S ONLY ONE OR TWO OF THEM HOME” — Paul Raff

T

he Bridle Path is an architect’s fantasy playground, an intricate patchwork of estates radiating with artistry. Echo House, which arrived in the upscale neighbourhood at the dawn of 2014, is no exception to this principle, touching on an area of design that had yet to be tried in the area: Asianinfused design.

Crafted by Paul Raff of Paul Raff Studio in Toronto, Echo House was actually a renovation and addition made to an existing home. Raff worked intimately with the resident family to capture their vision for the design, which put an emphasis on their Asian heritage.

To say Raff pulled it off is an understatement. Stepping onto the property and into the home, one feels the culture existing almost as its own being, a personality present in the room. The interior is vast but cosy.

Wrap-around clerestory windows reap natural light, while floor-to-ceiling and wall-to-wall glass brings the outside in, presenting uninterrupted visuals of a garden facade. Further promoting the romance between inside and out, massive glass doors completely open the entire face of the house, expanding it into the garden and terrace.

“Harmony is the term that captures the philosophical sensibility that this family was interested in, and which I felt was important,” says Raff, who has studied several strings of Asian art.

“That comes through in the design of the house in the way that it has strong, easy visual and physical connections to the landscape and the nature around it.”

Taking notes from traditional Asian patterns, large pivoting doors leading to the swimming pool were created from laser-cut steel filigree, and a similar screen exists in the kitchen wing, spanning from the ground floor up to the second-floor

30 DOLCE MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com

art studio. More screens line the front facade of the home, these ones made of reclaimed Douglas fir, providing privacy to the guest bedrooms they cover. The gentle rippling effect created by the criss-cross of wood in these screens makes them fittingly reminiscent of an echo.

“The word echo automatically implies listening,” says Raff. “So being in this sense isn’t just about what it looks like, how it functions, it’s about total atmosphere, which includes sound and touch, the sense of feeling, the air flow.”

Echo House is intimate with nature not only in its esthetic respect to it, but also in the way it was designed to be ecologically sustainable. By renovating the existing structure to exceed contemporary high-performance standards for insulation, the home cut back more than 50 per cent of its energy consumption.

spring 2015

Exclusively selected furniture and designs that are built to last, and leave a lasting impression.

Fashion-forward F hi f d products d from f across the globe, hand-picked by our lighting design specialists.

CANADA’S FAVOURITE ONLINE LIGHTING STORE.

Modern Luxury is Now Just a Click Away.

Prima Lighting’s fashion-forward lighting products can now be purchased online. Discover a range of stylish collections and take advantage of no-brokerage fees or exchange rates.

SHOP NOW AT PRIMALIGHTING.CA 255 Bass Pro Mills Drive l Vaughan, Ontaro l Tel. 905 851 1188 l spring 2015

www.dolcemag.com

|

DOLCE MAGAZINE 31

It’s been more than a year after the dramatic evolution of their home, and the resident family says Raff ’s creation has truly resonated with them. As they are a group that entertains regularly, hosting large-scale parties throughout the year, Echo House’s roomy yet comfortable ambience creates an ideal space for their friends and family to chat, relax and explore. The kitchen, which Raff says is the largest he’s ever constructed in this part of the world, is a tremendous hit as well, as it fits over 20 people while cooking, “and it actually works,” says Raff. “What they love about the house is that not only does it do that, but while it’s an expansive, spacious house, it still feels intimate when there’s only one or two of them home.”

As for Raff ’s relationship with the project, he is as happy with the finished space as its owners. A cultured oasis immersed in nature, Echo House is an unforgettable addition to the Bridle Path community.

“What characterizes our work is that each product we consider is so unique.

We’re dealing with unique people in a unique place, so Echo House actually wasn’t that different of an experience for me — except that it’s completely different,” he says with a laugh. “It’s just part of the privilege and pleasure of living a creative life where I get to do original work for wonderful people that actually has a direct positive impact on their daily life.” www.paulraffstudio.com

Echo House was inspired by Asian heritage, which is evident in numerous design elements including a series of Korean antiques used to decorate the space

32 DOLCE MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com

spring 2015

A DV E R TO R I A L

MELT INTO THE WHITE SPACE WITH

DAVID’S

FINE LINENS

T

hink clean, pure and fresh — and David’s Fine Linens will take you there. The GTA’s authority on modern linens brings new meaning to spring cleaning this season with crisp white options and the latest in floral pastel patterns. A breath of fresh air will fill your bedroom as you sink into an inspiring fashion collection of duvet covers made in Portugal by St. Pierre, while St. Genève’s luxe bedding, throws, coverlets, duvets and soft pillows — crafted with fine Italian and Portuguese fabrics and custommade for David’s Fine Linens patrons — will wrap you in comfort as you float to Cloud 9. For the whimsicalminded, Canadian brand Revelle’s

deluxe bedding and bedsheets are sprinkled with soft, comforting hues with daphne and delphinium blooms, which will whisk you away to an enchanted forest. This spring, brighten up your home, soften your spaces and melt into the peaceful white space with David’s Fine Linens’ beautiful collection of linens and bedding.

Antoinette Vert by St. Genève

Watercolour by Hugo Boss

www.davidsfinelinens.com Renaissance Commercial Plaza 8099 Weston Rd., Unit 25, Woodbridge, Ont. 905-264-7778 Bayview Village Shopping Centre 2901 Bayview Ave., North York, Ont. 416-590-7311 Toll-Free: 1-877-591-1115

www.pwc.com/ca

Leading with vision and passion We are committed to building a culture of high performance to deliver value for our people, clients and communities.

© 2015 PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, an Ontario limited liability partnership. All rights reserved. 3918-09 0115

spring 2015

www.dolcemag.com

|

DOLCE MAGAZINE 33

OBJECTSof DESIRE TEXT BY MICHAEL HILL

1

2 1

There’s a reason why the Sagamore is known as “the Art Hotel.” Home to the Cricket Taplin Collection of contemporary art and bursting with interesting design, this boutique art deco hotel along the shores of Miami Beach has no shortage of style. www.sagamorehotel.com

2

Like a halo of modern home décor, the Arctic Pear chandelier by British furniture, lighting and accessory design house Ochre is a dazzling crown for kitchens and living rooms. www.ochre.net

3

Don’t just blend into the urban jungle.

Storm the beaches of your 9-to-5 with confident style in this Italian-made, leather-trimmed, bright camouflage nylon backpack by Valentino. www.saksfifthavenue.com

4

The espresso cup set from the illy Art Collection features beautifully painted pieces by six renowned artists, merging the everyday joy of sipping espresso with inspirational art. www.illy.com 34 DOLCE MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com

3 5

Lugano Fine Foods only imports highquality products with superb taste and beautiful presentation. Its full-bodied Mandranova Nocellara del Belice extra-virgin olive oil is some of the best that Sicily has to offer. www.luganofinefoods.com

4

5 spring 2015

7

6

SET OFF THAT CUTE RED NUMBER YOU’VE BEEN WAITING TO WEAR ALL WINTER WITH THESE DOLCE & GABBANA FLORAL-BROCADE WEDGE SANDALS

11

8 9

6

Ame American artist Leah Yerpe encourages her models to improvise encourage dance as she captures their movement through drawing.

The result, as seen draw here in this work, Daphne’s Roots, is a collage of limbs that seems to never rest. www.1stdibs.com

10

7

Set off of that cute red number you’ve been waiting to wear all winter with these Dolce Do & Gabbana floral-brocade wedge sandals. The brilliant roses tell the world that you’ve left the cold behind. behind www.net-a-porter.com

8

W memory-foam ear cushions With aand a clean, chic design, the Layla leather and rose-gold-tone headphones leat from Frends prove that technology can be both functional and elegant. www.net-a-porter.com ww

9

11

10 1

12

Utilizing organic extracts of pomegranate, lemon and basil, Acqua Di Parma shave oil primes the skin, allowing for a closer shave with less irritation — ideal for the modern gentleman who takes grooming seriously. www.saksfifthavenue.com

12 spring 2015

Paula Cademartori’s autumnwinter 2015 collection embraces the celestial palette of the cosmos and turns heads with bright and bold statement pieces that exude colours of stat alien planets and boreal lights. www.paulacademartori.com

From the Ralph Lauren Sporting Collection, the RL Automotive Model juxtaposes the warmth of a rich amboyna-burl-wood bezel with a clean and cool stainless steel strap for a look that’s full of character. www.ralphlauren.com The ultimate centrepiece for those elegant evening soirées, this natural Burma pink sapphire ring will sparkle under the candlelight, moonlight or whatever light you have available, thanks to 106 round, brilliant-cut diamonds. www.1stdibs.com www.dolcemag.com

|

DOLCE MAGAZINE 35

The “people’s supercar” returns: 25 years after its release, the Acura NSX enters into its second generation with a “giant leap forward”

ACURA

WRITTEN BY MICHAEL HILL

The all-new Acura NSX sports a hybrid power system that combines a twin-turbo V-6 with three electric motors to generate over 550 horsepower 36 DOLCE MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com

spring 2015

Stylistically, the new NSX exudes an ultra-modern esthetic that blends flowing lines with sharp angles and gaping intakes. Inside, that aggressive design continues with stitched leather panels and aluminum lining the doors and dash

I

t was a bold move when Honda released the original NSX a quarter of a century ago. The Japanese manufacturer was determined to stake its claim in the supercar realm and when the mid-engine two-seater debuted at the Chicago Auto Show in 1989 it was a warning shot straight across the bows of Ferrari and Porsche. Not only was the NSX, sold under the Acura banner in North America, the first production car in the world with an all-aluminum body, but it was also a supercar that was accessible. The “people’s supercar,” as it was known, was lauded both for its performance and its reliability, redefining what consumers expected from high-end sports vehicles.

Not bad for Japan’s first supercar.

Fast-forward to 2015 — a decade since the last NSX was built and three years since Acura started teasing the public with a mid-engine concept that carried the NSX name — and Acura is ready to bring their beloved supercar back to the streets. At this year’s Canadian International AutoShow, president and CEO of Honda Canada Jerry Chenkin explained that the resurrected NSX “represents the return to Acura’s roots with a giant leap forward.” Indeed, things have certainly changed.

The new NSX is substantially longer and wider than the original, with a frame made of aluminium, high-strength steel and what they’re describing as “other advanced materials.” Up front, Acura’s now-signature Jewel Eye LED headlights bookend the chrome strip of spring 2015

the thinner power plenum grille, while massive, angular honeycomb intakes give it a mischievous grin. Its body’s flowing lines are accented by sharp, knife-like angles to give it an ultramodern style, and gaping air intakes blend seamlessly with the C-pillar.

Lean, modern tail lights run the width of its rear, and huge air extractors and diffusers dominate the bottom of the back bumper and frame four centremounted exhaust pipes.

Inside, the same aggressive styling of the exterior continues. Chenkin explained that the interior is a “human support cockpit” that is focused on “functionality and human fit.” Stitched leather panels and aluminum wrap the doors and dash, while an LCD instrument panel is positioned behind the sculpted steering wheel.

Powering the new NSX is a hybrid system that combines a 75-degree, twin-turbo V-6 with three electrical motors. One electric motor is wedged between the V-6 and the 9-speed dualclutch automatic transmission in the midsection of the car, while each of the other two are placed behind the left and right front wheels. Power from the V-6 and one electric motor is sent to the rear wheels while the front wheels get all electricity. This “Sport Hybrid Super Handling All-Wheel Drive” system is similar to what we’ve seen in other recent supercars, providing drivers with instantaneous torque even at low RPM. Chenkin added that the new NSX also has the “lowest centre of gravity in its class” for tighter handling.

GENERAL SPECS Engine: Twin-turbo V-6 with three electric motors Horsepower: +550 Transmission: 9-speed dual-clutch automatic Drivetrain: Three-motor hybrid all-wheel drive Price: Starting from approximately $155,000 (USD)

When it comes to exact specifications, Acura, however, is remaining tightlipped. It’s reported that they’re still doing final testing before production begins later this year, and no word has been released on total power output, acceleration, curb weight or battery capacity. Acura has stated, though, that the new NSX will deliver over 550 horsepower, which puts it right up there with rival supercars.

Pricing will start around $155,000 (USD) and customer orders will be taken later this year. If the original NSX holds a special place in your heart, then this is one to keep an eye on, as more information will be released this summer. www.acura.ca www.dolcemag.com

|

DOLCE MAGAZINE 37

Welcome to Bobby Genovese’s definition of a good time: jaw-dropping resorts in eclectic locations across the globe

I

t all began when Richard Branson hit Bobby Genovese over the head. Metaphorically, of course.

“I had all these incredible residences that I owned that I just don’t get to visit anymore,” says Genovese, chairman of BG Capital Group Limited, which in 2013 came out with the BG Signature Luxury Retreat Collection. “And having spent some time with Richard Branson, he sort of hit me over the head and said, ‘Well, why don’t you do what I do?’ And that’s how BG Signature came about.”

It works perfectly for Genovese, who just likes to show people a good time. An adventure enthusiast himself who finds his rush exploring different corners of the world (and anywhere that happens to have a polo field), the entrepreneur and business mogul has established his ideal hobby in BG Signature.

While the luxury vacation company recently launched, it’s turned the heads of elite travellers across the globe. The 38 DOLCE MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com

collection of BG Signature estates ranges from a chalet in Whistler to a flat in the Sherborne House country mansion in the Cotswolds, England, to a retreat on Paradise Island, Bahamas.

“I really enjoy creating incredible experiences of holidays for people,” says Genovese, who’s talking from the BG Signature flagship location, an equestrian resort in Ocala, Fla. This particular property is a real-life fantasy for any active vacationer, located adjacent to the Florida Horse Park and backing onto the world-famous Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway, a 177-kilometre-long trail that connects one side of the state to the other.

With the goal of adding one property to BG Signature’s roster every one to two years, Genovese couldn’t be happier with the way the company is already spreading his fun-loving energy to fellow travellers seeking unique destinations all over the world. When asked if he has his eye on any potentials right now, he says

he does — and we’ll just have to wait and see what and where they turn out to be. For now, travellers can whet their adventure palates by perusing the BG Signature website, which gives a detailed overview of each property. From there, Genovese says, the renting process is simple as can be: just call or email BG Signature with the location you’ve fallen for, and shortly after your escape will be booked.

“Our client is somebody that loves adventure — somebody that wants the ability to dial it down or up as much as they want to,” says Genovese, who says his favourite location for the springtime is his 60-acre farm in King City, Ont. “You can do as little or as much as you want to do. It very much is that Richard Branson type model. You get people exhausted, and when they leave it’s the best holiday they’ve ever had. They’ve all done things that they’ve never done before.” www.bgsignature.com spring 2015

PHOTOS COURTESY OF BG SIGNATURE LUXURY RETREAT COLLECTION

WRITTEN BY AMANDA STOREY

The properties of BG Signature are a curated collection of homes hand-picked by Bobby Genovese (pictured below). In the US are an equestrian resort in Ocala, Fla. and a waterfront home in Boca Raton, Fla.; in Canada are a chalet in Whistler, B.C., and a farmhouse in King City, Ont.; in the Bahamas is a retreat on Paradise Island; in England is a flat in the Sherborne House country mansion in the Cotswolds. Also available are BG Signature yachts and private jets.

spring 2015

www.dolcemag.com

|

DOLCE MAGAZINE 39

SOTTO RISES SOTTO Yorkville’s fine dining darling is back. Sotto Sotto’s new Avenue Road location delivers the signature warm ambience that has made it a magnet among Toronto diners and the celebrity set WRITTEN BY SIMONA PANETTA PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN PACKMAN

S

otto Sotto owner Marisa Rocca vividly remembers the day her beloved Yorkville restaurant burned to the ground. It was the morning of Dec. 25, and she had just landed in Arizona to spend the holidays with family when she received a devastating call from a friend screaming about a fire at 116A Avenue Rd. Shocked and confused, and so far away, Rocca didn’t understand the gravity of the situation until someone sent her a video of the blaze.

“That’s when I realized it was big,” says Rocca over the phone.

“I was losing my first baby; my first child was up in flames. And that’s when I started to cry.” She quickly packed her bags and booked the first flight out of Tucson.

40 DOLCE MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com

As firefighters battled the three-alarm fire, which tragically brought down Trattoria Sotto Sotto and Spuntini Ristorante & Bar, the establishment that sat above it, Rocca arrived on the scene, unable to accept what had happened to the restaurant where discerning diners and celebrities such as Johnny Depp and Jude Law have dined since its opening in the ’90s. The Christmas Day fire quickly made headlines and hashtagged its way through social media. “Damn. My second home. Gone but not forgotten. #SottoSotto,” wrote loyal patron Drake on his Instagram account.

And then something happened. As Rocca tore her eyes off the rubble and set her gaze on the faces of her long-standing spring 2015

Marisa Rocca, owner of Sotto Sotto, has been busy bringing her Yorkville restaurant’s new location to life after a fire destroyed the original hot spot in late 2014. Sotto Sotto will continue to offer the same dishes on its extensive menu, including this pistachio panna cotta and Chilean sea bass on corn sauce with purple kale guanciale and cherry tomatoes

“I SAT AT THE BAR AND LOOKED OVER THE ROOM — WHICH DOESN’T LOOK EXACTLY LIKE SOTTO SOTTO BUT IS QUITE BEAUTIFUL — AND ASKED EVERY FIVE MINUTES IF OUR PATRONS WERE SMILING” — Marisa Rocca

The new Sotto Sotto, located at 120 Avenue Road in Toronto, is now open for dinner. Full-service lunch and dinner will commence mid-April

employees, she realized what she had to do: she would bring her fine Italian restaurant back to life like it was the last thing she would do. Believing in the power of good people, she and her husband Lou kept all the main staff on salary while they tried to find a new location. “In the end you have to move fast, you have to move quickly, because, you know, there’s nothing I could do about the [fire]. So that’s what I did. I had a lot of people who showed me love and respect, people who called me and said, ‘I have this location or that location.’ And when an opportunity came up, I said, ‘absolutely, this is mine.’”

Two months later, Rocca is still emotional, but in a good way. It’s the day after the soft opening of a new Sotto Sotto, spring 2015

now housed at 120 Avenue Road, just two doors north of its original location, and the turnout was a success. “It was quite the night, there were great conversations,” says the selfdescribed cook, who was born in Rome and moved to Canada in 1989. “I sat at the bar and looked over the room — which doesn’t look exactly like Sotto Sotto but is quite beautiful — and asked every five minutes if our patrons were smiling. I went around to the tables to ask how the food was and they all said, ‘it’s exactly the same.’” Revered for its grilled fish and popular Roman pasta dishes — Rocca’s favourites are bucatini all’Amatriciana and spaghetti carbonara — the unchanged, tried-and-true menu bursts with a delicious variety of simple dishes featuring slight contemporary twists.

While renovations to the two-floor space are not yet complete (Rocca has for now taken items such as flowers and candles from her own home to bring that dusky, candlelit warmth of the old Sotto Sotto to the new ambience), the kitchen is ready to go, with dinnertime seating available from Thursday to Sunday. Rocca anticipates that the Romanesquestyled restaurant, which has attracted a multitude of stars and high-profile execs throughout the year and especially during TIFF, will run daily full-service lunch and dinner by mid-April of this year. “The new space is covered in photos of people who have experienced the restaurant — all smiling faces extending back 20 years. That was the only thing on the walls, besides some art, they managed to keep from the fire,” says spokesperson Laura Fracassi. www.sottosotto.ca Call 416-962-0011 for reservations or email sottosotto@rogers.com www.dolcemag.com

|

DOLCE MAGAZINE 41

42 DOLCE MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com

spring 2015

SIMPLICITY

AND MAJESTY INTERVIEW BY AMANDA STOREY PHOTOS BY ULYSSE LEMERISE BOUCHARD (YUL PHOTO)

T

he Québécois area of Charlevoix is a hidden gem, a pocket of barely touched nature embraced by mountainous terrain, rugged vegetation and the world-famous St. Lawrence River.

Montreal-based design firm MU Architecture landed the project of a lifetime when asked to design a series of rental homes in this rugged little piece of paradise, and thus Malbaie VI: Marée Basse, the second of many installations, was born. Built snugly into the uneven topography of the landscape, and made with such natural materials, Marée Basse appears barely there at first glance, but a closer look will reveal an architectural marvel, both inside and out.

Jean-Sébastien Herr and Charles Côté, architects, co-presidents and co-founders at MU Architecture, reveal to Dolce Magazine the mystery and artistry of this dynamic project.

See Q & A on page 44

Looking out at the St. Lawrence River, Malbaie VI: Marée Basse was named after the French term for “low tide” spring 2015

www.dolcemag.com

|

DOLCE MAGAZINE 43

Q: How did this project come about for MU Architecture?

A: Marée Basse is part of a residential development. It’s privately owned.

The developer actually bought a piece of land that he subdivided into 103 lots, and he asked us to develop this series of houses for rental purposes. We started off with Malbaie V: Le Phare, and then developed Malbaie VI: Marée Basse. Malbaie VI: Marée Basse is the second house we developed for the owner. So there is a client, of course, but there is not a specific end user because the houses are all developed for rental purposes.

Q: You as a team must have had quite a bit of freedom designing, then?

A: Totally. But at the same time we were asked to develop a design guideline for the whole development so other architects can come and work on the development. So the first houses had to set the tone for the development, which is why we chose specific materials, all locally found. We wanted the shapes of the houses to be as simple as possible, as minimalistic as possible, in order to maximize views toward the river, toward the mountains, and benefit as much as possible from the natural light. So Marée Basse was developed according to the topography of the site, and the orientations toward the marina, the mountains and the river. That’s why it has a specific V-shaped angle, in order to target the marina, which is just a little bit lower on the site. And we wanted to create that private terrace at the bottom level that would be hidden from neighbours’ view.

wide, so the view of it here feels like it’s almost like an ocean. People get easily confused by the impressive look of the river and the impact it has on the land.

It’s gorgeous.

Q: What materials were used to construct Marée Basse?

A: We wanted the project to be as integrated as possible within the nature.

The choice of materials, like the cedar, was very specific, because we like materials that age and change colour and blend with the nature. We wanted natural products as well, natural materials that can be found locally. We didn’t want to create architecture that was going to add too much of a sculptural aspect to the landscape, we wanted something very subtle that would blend in.

Using the element of surprise to create a thoughtful and dynamic space, Marée Basse set a tone of innovation for the rest of the houses in its rental development

Q: How many more instalments have you completed for this development?

A: So far we have four built, and we have two more on the boards, and we probably made a total of about eight designs.

Q: What does this project mean to you personally? Does it have any particular sentiment to you as a designer?

A: Well, of course, we are very attached to all our designs. But over the years we have seen that Marée Basse and Le

Q: Was privacy an important element while designing?

A: Definitely, because considering it’s a development, you’re going to have neighbours on your left, on your right, at the back, so we wanted to provide as much intimacy and privacy as possible.

Q: What are your thoughts on the location, Charlevoix?

A: To me, Charlevoix is probably the most beautiful area in Quebec because of its variety of topography, of landscape, of species, whether it’s animals or trees. It’s very rich, it’s a very wide and open space. The lots of this development are very big, so it feels like you’re in the middle of nowhere.

You literally don’t see your neighbours.

This point of the river is 16 kilometres 44 DOLCE MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com

Phare generate a lot of interest, because they’re so minimalistic, so simple, in their shapes and exterior volumes, that people can relate to them very easily. But after these first two designs we moved on to a

MU Architecture made a point of bringing nature inside, using all-natural, all-local materials to construct the airy and bright interior of the home

spring 2015

MU Architecture architects, co-presidents and co-founders Charles Côté and Jean-Sébastien Herr, who worked on Marée Basse alongside the MU team

different sort of style when designing the subsequent houses for the development.

Q: What type of style did you evolve to?

A: If you look at our latest house for this development, La Grange, you’ll find that we’re looking into more dynamic shapes. We now play with angles with folded panels. We are still integrating the volumes with the landscape, with the topography, but we try to generate dynamism with the volumes that we play with. We accentuate the views by creating angled walls or roofs. We try to make the users’ experience a bit more interesting, not with just plain materials or plain surfaces, but we try to integrate the interior design or the external shape of the house as an experience on its own.

We tried to bring the users to another type of experience, whether it’s just walking through a glass corridor and seeing the natural light coming in, or playing with materials.

Q: Have you received any feedback from anyone who’s rented the property?

A: It’s a huge success. These houses have been rented throughout the year with 85 per cent occupancy. The owners are very excited.

Marée Basse and Le Phare in particular made it in Taschen’s Wood Architecture Now! Vol. 2. So we’re very excited about this project. www.architecture-mu.com

The home looks out at the majestic St. Lawrence River, which at this point its width makes it appear like an ocean spring 2015

www.dolcemag.com

|

DOLCE MAGAZINE 45

Suzanne Rogers takes a seat in her Forest Hill home. She wears a top and skirt by Simone Rocha

o 46 DOLCE MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com

spring 2015

Raising millions for children’s charities by combining fashion with philanthropy, Suzanne Rogers invites us to her home in Toronto for a rare one-on-one interview

THE OTHER SIDE

of the coin WRITTEN BY SIMONA PANETTA PHOTOGRAPHY BY EVAAN KHERAJ

E

MAKEUP BY ARABELLA TRASCA, WWW.ARABELLATRASCA.COM | HAIR BY ROSE CORBO, SALONCORBO@ROGERS.COM

arly afternoon at the Rogers residence in Toronto finds Suzanne Rogers sipping on homemade iced tea on an ornate chair in her family’s opulent dining room. On the table before us, a decadent spread of European pastries and egg-salad tea sandwiches, which she ignores, and next to her, a sun-filled bay window that sends a wash of natural light around the room. She’s wearing diamond stud earrings and a snug black bobble-fabric Emilia Wickstead dress with short sleeves and a mock neck, her yellow-butter hair worn long and pulled away from her face, falling in loose waves down her narrow shoulders. The edgy-chic look is a refreshing departure from the diaphanous gowns she’s often photographed in, the ones we all wish we could slip into, even just for one night. Around us, blue and white porcelain wares among crystal-decked picture frames of a style-subscribed Suzanne smiling next to close friends, family and international designers — all treasured memories now woven into the fabric of the woman she is today. “It’s all connected,” says the philanthropist, a thankful smile spreading across her face. “It’s somehow all connected from your roots to where you are now.”

There are cream-coloured floors and gilded chandeliers; there are fresh flowers on almost every glass surface. There are scented Christian Dior candles, and fashion history books, and floral settees along French-inspired walls. When I first arrive, Suzanne is upstairs slipping into the first of four spring 2015

www.dolcemag.com

|

DOLCE MAGAZINE 47

Dress, Emilia Wickstead; diamond studs, Mark Lash; bangles, Alexis Bittar 48 DOLCE MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com

spring 2015

A

spring 2015

“

who have experienced abuse or violence. Offering prevention programs in schools and the community, and teaching children skills to reduce their vulnerability, Boost turned out to be that “wow” charity she was waiting for. She began attending the non-profit’s annual fundraising gala and subsequently became a major sponsor and honorary chair of the Butterfly Ball, her high profile helping to increase attendance and donor dollars.

Boost, along with Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital in Toronto, are the major beneficiaries of SRP. Others include HealthyKids International, the Herbie Fund and the Children’s Aid Foundation. lways one to root for the underdog, Suzanne was the first private donor to step up and offer critical funding that in 2013 led to the opening of Boost’s Child & Youth Advocacy Centre, a much-needed place where children, youth and their families could find refuge from abusive environments. It would be the first centre of its kind in the city.

“I’ll never forget Suzanne calling me from Hungary to tell me

A

“

wardrobe changes — a voluminous Rubin Singer ball gown, all dreamy-white and strapless with vivid black floral detail.

As she glides down the dark wood staircase of her home, a photographer animatedly snapping away and praising her natural ability to pose, the former model’s husband, deputy chairman of Rogers Communications Edward Rogers, rounds the corner. “Wow. Nice dress. Are we going to a party?” he teases, following her down the hall. “Let me see!” says their nine-year-old son Edward IV in a burst of excitement before racing off and hurrying back with an iPad. No stranger to the spotlight, Suzanne maintains her composure — straight back, bright smile, eyes popped — she plays for keeps. “As a mother your answer will always be your children,” says the political science grad of her greatest accomplishment. “And having a wonderful husband. He supports me in everything I do. He doesn’t get the fashion thing,” she laughs, “but he gets how — he loves how — I’ve taken that passion and brought awareness to children’s charities. And he’s very supportive of all of that.” The two first met when they were teenagers and later married in 2006. s a fixture on the fashion and philanthropy scene in Toronto, Suzanne has championed the rights of vulnerable and abused children for years.

Often seen in the most dizzying array of couture garments, almost always in various shades of pink, Suzanne’s commitment to haute couture and upcoming designers has helped raise millions for causes close to her heart, right here in the city.

“Suzanne is always impeccable. She has a very clear sense of her own style and she isn’t afraid to make a statement with the clothing she wears,” says American fashion-designer-turned-friend Zac Posen in an email during New York Fashion Week. Last year, the two collaborated on Posen’s first Canadian runway show for the third instalment of Suzanne Rogers Presents, a series of exclusive fundraising events that bring international designers and their collections to the fingertips of couture-minded Toronto women.

SRP is arguably the city’s most glamorous charity gala, culminating in spectacular runway shows from designers who share Suzanne’s vision of combining fashion with philanthropy. In 2010, none other than the late, great Oscar de la Renta — who took a chance on Suzanne’s fashionfuelled philanthropic work after a meeting in his New York City office — established a precedent for what was to come from SRP as the event’s inaugural designer. “He was the most warm, welcoming, kindest man,” she says fondly of the fashion legend, her crystal-blue eyes holding down a blink. A year later, Suzanne joined forces with Georgina Chapman and Keren Craig of Marchesa, who brought their first runway show in years to Toronto. Since its inception, SRP has collectively raised a whopping $2.5 million for lowprofile charities.

“There are projects that come to me that don’t suit me or suit what I like to promote, but once in a while one comes across my desk and it’s like, ‘wow.’” Since 2011, Suzanne has dedicated herself to Boost Child Abuse Prevention & Intervention, an inconspicuous community-based organization that provides services to children, youth and their families

TO BE ABLE TO SUPPORT CHARITIES WITH CHILDREN WHO ARE IN NEED, ABUSED, WITHOUT SHELTER, NEEDING FOOD — TO ME THAT’S A CALLING, TO ME THAT’S A RESPONSIBILITY TO HELP — Suzanne Rogers

that she had been successful at getting a $250,000 donation for the Advocacy Centre through the Rogers family,” says Boost executive director Karyn Kennedy. From the moment they met, Suzanne showed genuine interest by asking about the charity’s operations and hands-on opportunities that would make a difference. She leapt at the chance to visit schools and work with children alongside Boost’s preventative staff for the better part of a year. “She’s so sincere and genuine in her passion for the work that we do. Recently she helped direct us to someone who was willing to help out with LED lighting in the building because some of our clients suffer from migraines.

She doesn’t just write cheques — she really puts her heart and soul in it.”

Apart from her deep commitment to Boost, Suzanne is also a committee member of the annual fundraising event Scrubs in the City (which has, to date, raised over $3 million for the Hospital for Sick Children), an honorary chair of the House of Forward Foundation, which has supported Oolagen Youth Mental Health for the past two years, and a board director of the OneXOne Foundation. “I’m very focused on children’s charities because I have three children [Chloé, 17; Edward IV, 9; Jack, 7], and they are very fortunate in life. They are going to the best schools in the city; they are very well taken care of by us. To be able to support charities with children who are in need, abused, without shelter, needing food — to me that’s a calling, to me that’s a responsibility to help,” says Suzanne, who www.dolcemag.com

|

DOLCE MAGAZINE 49

is currently in the process of organizing her model-daughter’s move to the U.K. for university in September. hose that know Suzanne personally or through her support of fashion and the arts, those that consider her a friend and a champion of children’s charities, know that everything she does is done with heart and reach-for-the-sky determination. Her energy for philanthropy especially merits a particular kind of admiration for defying the stereotypes associated with the deep-pocketed and well-dressed. “Every time I turn around she’s lending her name to significant philanthropic causes, and she really gets behind them, she doesn’t just say it, she gets involved,” says Venture Communications CEO Arlene Dickinson. In 2012, Suzanne swapped her impeccable garbs for a sleeping bag to join Dickinson and other business leaders as they slept on the streets of Toronto in support of Covenant House, Canada’s largest homeless youth agency providing a 24-7 crisis shelter for at-risk and homeless youth. It was Dickinson who had tapped Suzanne on the shoulder and asked her to help bring awareness to street youth on that chilly Former lieutenant-governor of Ontario Hilary Weston, Edward Rogers, Suzanne Rogers and Oscar de la Renta enjoy a fashion show at Suzanne Rogers Presents: Oscar de la Renta

PHOTO BY PETER BREGG PHOTOGRAPHY

T

BEHIND THE SCENES WITH SUZANNE ROGERS HIDDEN TALENT I used to play the violin. When I was growing up in London, Ontario, the elementary school I went to for a few years was a performing arts school. So I played the violin for many years.

MOST AWKWARD MOMENT My husband and I were travelling through Italy and headed to Lake Como when Edward said, “Oh, we’ll stop in Milan and go into some shops.” I was wearing the tackiest purple velour track suit. So I said, “I can’t be wearing this for Milan.” And he said, “Forget it, don’t worry about it.” And I said, “You don’t understand, they won’t serve me.” So he said, “Even better.” Once we stopped and went into Pucci, not one person came up to me; not one person served me. And then I walked to the next store. I think it was Alexander McQueen. Not one person served me; not one person talked to me. I remember vividly sitting in the car, cringing. ‘This is Italy, this is Milan, people dress up!” So that definitely stands out in my mind: a horrible purple track suit I wore while going through Milan to Lake Como. And my husband still teases me to this day. Whenever I travel, he says, “Make sure you bring that purple track suit.”

DESIGNER DISH

November night, knowing full well that Suzanne, although apprehensive at first, would eventually pick up the challenge with zest and help collect funds. According to Covenant House, the sleep-out raised more than $500,000 that year, with Suzanne amassing over $47,000 — the most money raised by an individual participant that year. Describing her as “super downto-earth and very friendly,” the former Dragons’ Den star recalls their first tête-à-tête as an intelligent, respectful exchange of words that had Suzanne listening attentively — a rare quality for a person who has so many people hovering around and vying for her attention. “We both came from really humble beginnings and without a lot of money. It does make me think about how she gets it, how she doesn’t forget where she came from. It can be hard when the trappings of privilege and wealth surround you but at the end of day, it’s really about who you are, not what you have. I would say that’s definitely something we share in common.” hen you ask Suzanne how she fell into fashion, she responds that there was no tumble or serendipitous encounter; it’s just been something she’s loved from her days of travelling as a child. From the age of six, she and her

W

50 DOLCE MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com

I was at the Dolce & Gabbana couture show in Capri last year as a guest of theirs. The afterparty started at midnight, in a little tavern, and they’re dancing on the stage, singing amazing Italian songs, and having the best time! I loved seeing them in a comfortable social setting and enjoying everything — just imagine the stress they go through, day in, day out, collection after collection. They like to unwind just like everybody else does, right?

family would embark on summer trips to Europe to visit her grandmother, who lived in Budapest. While attending finishing school in Austria, a weekend for 17-year-old Suzanne meant exploring and shopping in Paris, Vienna and Munich. “My girlfriend and I would get on a train, put our pennies together, and share a dessert or something, but for us it was more the thrill of the experience. Of course, this was the ’80s, and the fashion you would see in Hungary was four years behind. But countries like France were always ahead. So I picked up a little bit of things here and there, and when I’d go back to Hungary with all my clothes, people would be like, ‘Oh my God, that’s not even in stores yet, we’ve only seen it in a magazine.’”

Like a revolving door to Bergdorf ’s, life has a way of coming full circle. Today, she and her sidekick interior designer Glenn Dixon are often spotted together at the city’s top fundraisers and front row at the world’s Big 4 fashion weeks, where spring 2015

Dress, Mary Katrantzou; metallic pumps, Christian Dior; earrings and pink bracelets, vintage pieces from Paris spring 2015

www.dolcemag.com

|

DOLCE MAGAZINE 51

Ball gown, Rubin Singer; earrings, Balmain 52 DOLCE MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com

spring 2015

once, at the Ritz in Paris, Karl Lagerfeld wondered aloud to Dixon just “who is that fabulous woman you are with?” On the surface, Suzanne is the emblem of glamorous, receiving Christmas cards from Victoria Beckham, accepting invites from Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana when they debuted their Alta Moda collection on the island of Capri last year. “Being Suzanne’s friend, you get to do some pretty crazy, fun stuff, and her love of fashion has brought us all over the world,” says Dixon. “But it’s a big, real passion of hers to support kids. She’s definitely taught me a thing or two about giving back. She does it better than anyone I know.” Beneath the folds of her silk faille dresses is a whip-smart, confident and spontaneously funny woman; a mother and wife adamant about Sunday family dinners; a successful benefactress acutely aware of and thankful for her surroundings. “I never grew up like this,” says Suzanne, who was born to Hungarian parents in a small mining town in northern Ontario. “My mother was proud that she could even afford to buy me a new pair of shoes — Buster Brown shoes, my first fashion label,” she reminisces. s I politely wander around the Rogers household, it’s clear that Suzanne’s sartorial taste extends well beyond her curated closet, spilling throughout her home in cascading florals, whispers of pink and pops of eclectic art. “I love looking for black and white fashion photography, I have a big interest in that, and I’ve collected quite a few pieces throughout the years,” says the proud owner of Lillian Bassman’s Blowing Kiss, one of only four produced in the world, and two Melvin Sokolsky portraits with model Simone D’Aillencourt floating in bubbles over Paris. The recently appointed honorary chair of the 2015 Governor General’s Performing Arts Awards Gala National Committee nods her head toward Nobody Else But You, an André Monet portrait of a pensive Marilyn Monroe, which hangs impressively on a stark wall above a modern divan near the main foyer. The Montreal-born artist’s striking collage and mosaic technique also caught the eye of the Opera Gallery in London, which commissioned him to create a portrait of Prince William and Kate Middleton for their royal wedding in 2011. It wouldn’t be the first time Suzanne shared an eye for the talent of a rising Canadian artist. She funds the annual $25,000 prize for Most Promising New Label as part of the Toronto Fashion Incubator competition, and is also on the judging panel for the annual Canadian Arts & Fashion Awards.

Outside, the frigid January day is sending its icy breath along the snow-dusted streets of Forest Hill, a stark contrast to the refuge I found within the first few steps inside the house of Rogers. Wondering how she does it all, how she found the key to balance in life, Suzanne replies that it’s all rooted in her upbringing. “I wore clothes from Goodwill until I was 10 years old, so when people ask me, ‘Well, what’s it like to be a Rogers?’

I say, ‘I’ve been my maiden name far longer than I’ve been a Rogers.’ This has always been me. And to have that balance, to really see both sides of the coin, really helps to have a different perspective on life.” Suzanne explains how important it is for her children to hear and be influenced by the dichotomy between their bloodlines: a maternal grandmother standing in line for bread for hours while growing up in communist Hungary, later losing her 24-year-old husband, Suzanne’s father, in a mining accident; and a paternal grandmother whose father was a British MP and governor of Bermuda, and a grandfather, Canadian icon Ted Rogers, who built a billiondollar communications empire. “We’ve given that balance to our kids. And for me, it’s been a wonderful experience, it’s been a wonderful life to have both influences.”

A

spring 2015

PERSPECTIVE CHANGES EVERYTHING

FINE ART LANDSCAPE PHOTOGRAPHY

jagdhanju.com jag@jagdhanju.com

416.274.4266 Gallery viewing by appointment 240 Duncan Mill Road, Suite 804 Toronto, Ontario

DOLCE MEDIA GROUP PRESENTS

VIDEO BROCHURE CANADA NAD 8 1/4” x 11 1/4” Video Brochure 7-inch LCD Screen 5 Buttons Built-in Dual Stereo Speakers Built-in 1GB Memory Inside Pocket for Print Inserts Magnetic Closure High-quality Graphics with Soft-touch Print Finish USB 2.0 Charge & Data Load by USB

www.videobrochurecanada.ca

www.dolcemedia.ca | 905.264.6789

www.dolcemag.com

|

DOLCE MAGAZINE 53

1

4

The Lupita earrings from Carla Amorim’s Black Label Collection are crafted from white gold, turquoise and diamonds www.carlaamorim.com Retailer - Royal de Versailles

Join the dark side for an evening by donning this bewitching double ring, complete with mysterious stones and bejewelled reptiles www.borgionis.com Retailer - Neiman Marcus

2

Blue topaz, diamonds and white gold sparkle together in this sugary piece from Antonini Milano’s Malibu collection www.antonini.it Retailer - Knar Jewellery

3

Bigger is better — so proves this chunky yet sophisticated ring that will leave onlookers breathless www.baccarat.com Retailer - Atkinson’s

HARD CANDY TThis season’s embellishments want you to surrender to your sweet ttooth. Give in to those cravings with these to-die-for pieces TEXT BY AMANDA STOREY

7 Unexpected lines and spring-hued jewels synchronize stunningly with diamonds in this unique bangle www.antonini.it Retailer - Holt Renfrew

54 DOLCE MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com

5

Juicy gems mesh together to create orange delight in these scrumptious-looking studs www.ivynewyork.com

8

6 Add a little ultraviolet to your ensemble with a cuff that sparkles with purple stones and tiny diamonds www.chimento.it Retailer- Rassi Jewellers

9

Classy with an edge, this chain-adorned piece screams femme fatale while still exuding elegance www.pluma-italia.com Retailer - Ursula B.

Like chocolate and vanilla, the dark and light stones that embellish this bangle create an irresistible blend www.levian.com Retailer - Ben Moss Jewellers

spring 2015

Inspired by nature’s regenerative powers, Tamara Ralph and Michael Russo walk hand-in-hand following their majestic spring-summer 2015 collection debut at the historic Grand Palais in Paris

LA

PRIMAVERA The goddess of spring has a new wardrobe. British couture house Ralph & Russo brings its best collection yet to this year’s Paris Fashion Week TEXT BY SIMONA PANETTA

With 3D hand-embroidered crystal flower buds on ice blue silk zibeline, this powerfully pretty silhouette is the stuff impressionist paintings are made of spring 2015

www.dolcemag.com

|

DOLCE MAGAZINE 55

Femininity with an edge teeters on the brink of perfection in this black tulle gown with transparent bell sleeves and a whimsical cascade of floral thread work

56 DOLCE MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com

spring 2015

All hail the sartorial fairy queen. A high-low silk faille gown paired with a rose pink sleeve coat will leave trails of jealous whisperings behind you

ALLURING AND FERTILE, FLOWERS DOMINATE THE COUTURE RUNWAY

spring 2015

www.dolcemag.com

|

DOLCE MAGAZINE 57

A champagne train and softly draped silk satin chiffon gown awaken the inner flower fairy in all of us

An off-the-shoulder, white silk crepe cape frames the décolleté as it spills over a hip-hugging guipure lace and glass bead gown

Oh-so-feminine, this piece balances structure and playfulness as it clings to the upper body and blooms into a full, twirling skirt — the perfect dress for high tea on a spring day

BOLD AND SWEET AND A BOTANICAL IN CASCADING CLOUD-LIKE 58 DOLCE MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com

BRILLIANT, DIAPHANOUS, GARDEN UNFOLDS FLORALS AND GAZAR spring 2015

Fending off the night’s nectar thieves, a voluminous jet-black silk sleeve coat with chiffon petal sleeves drapes over a strapless pencil dress in eye-catching fashion

spring 2015

www.dolcemag.com

|

DOLCE MAGAZINE 59

For the bride that’s anything but conventional, this exquisitely embellished silk gazar gown makes an unforgettable couture statement

WOODLAND NYMPHS AND OTHERWORLDLY WHIMSY ENCHANT THE SENSES

60 DOLCE MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com

spring 2015

This jaw-dropping black tulle strapless fishtail gown and black silk double duchess sleeve jacket is a must in every femme fatale’s closet

spring 2015

www.dolcemag.com

|

DOLCE MAGAZINE 61

A potpourri of monochrome hand-embroidered silk and leather flowers play nice with pops of cornflower on an off-the-shoulder white faille dress

www.ralphandrusso.com Photos Courtesy of Ralph & Russo 62 DOLCE MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com

spring 2015

THROUGH THE LENS OF

JAG DHANJU Monumental Mon Monumental t Mome Moment ntt, Monument Monu numen mentt Vall V Valley, alley ey, Ar Ari Arizona-Utah zon na-U a Utah h st sstate ate e liline ne

Dolce Magazine chats with Jag Dhanju, a Toronto-based photographer who travels to remote locations to capture the “story in a scene” INTERVIEW BY MICHAEL HILL PHOTOS BY JAG DHANJU

Misty Algonquin Morning, Algonquin Provincial Park, Ont.

Photographer Jag Dhanju specializes in landscape and nature photography.

When not busy running a medical imaging centre, he enjoys being within and photographing all that surrounds us spring 2015

DM: When and why did you first get into photography?

JD: I started photography seriously only a few years ago. I wanted to capture and share compelling images of the natural beauty that exists all around us.

DM: As you say, much of your work focuses on nature and natural environments. Why is that something you want to capture?

JD: In our busy lives, we often forget that we are deeply rooted by nature in many ways. It is part of our essence and I feel a strong connection to its beauty.

To me nature is the purest form of art.

I am fascinated with the way the sun constantly interplays with our natural environments. I feel privileged to witness and capture it.

DM: What are the elements you look for in an environment that make you want to photograph it?

JD: It is not so much what I see in a scene that compels me but what nature decides to show me at that exact moment on that day. Whether it’s the first morning light that kisses the rolling hilltops or the sun trying to break free from a group of angry clouds, I often look for a story in a scene that expresses a certain mood, drama or spirituality.

DM: Several of your series are from more remote locations. What has been one of the more challenging shots to capture?

JD: Interestingly enough, photography has had me face my big fear of heights over steep cliffs! Just outside Page,

Autumn Rapidly Approaches, Oxtongue River Rapids, between Muskoka and Algonquin Park, Ont.

Arizona, up at 5 a.m. to photograph the sunrise at Horseshoe Bend. Horseshoe Bend is the name for a horseshoeshaped meander of the Colorado River.

Along with a friend, I hiked in from the road while it was still dark. As twilight approached, my feet all of a sudden froze as I approached the 1,000-foot sheer drop at the cliff ’s edge. I sat there for a few minutes in blowing wind, mentally coaching myself till I mustered up enough courage to crawl to the very edge with my gear to get that particular wide-angle shot just in time.

DM: Has photography opened you up to a new way of looking at life?

JD: Once you have spent a lot of time behind the lens, you start seeing the world from a different perspective and perspective is that which changes everything! Often we get lost with the complexity that surrounds us.

Photography has taught me to find the simplicity within it. jagdhanju.com River off San River Sand d, upper upperr Ante uppe A Antelope ntellope lope C Canyon, on Pa Pag Page, e, Ari Arizon Arizona zonaa

YOUR NOT-SO-STANDARD BRUNCH

T

he art of fine brunching has taken on a whole new meaning in the City of Toronto. And it’s easy to see why. Whether you’re an early-morning riser or prefer to sleep in, greasy spoon favourites — fried eggs, bacon and pancakes, hash browns, waffles and omelettes — are the perfect antidote to late-night revelry and fuelling up on energy before a jam-packed day.

But what happens when tried-and-true mainstays receive a healthy update involving contemporary twists and highquality ingredients? Offering its own innovative spin on the beloved midmorning meal, Pusateri’s Fine Foods is set to launch exciting breakfast, brunch and lunch menu items this spring that are all guaranteed to hit the spot.

Think pancakes stuffed with lemon ricotta and crispy banana-nutella waffles, breakfast pizza with an over-easy egg and cheddar bacon burger scones. Now wrap your tastebuds around brisket poutine, 64 DOLCE MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com

artisan grilled cheeses and pressed smoked meat sandwiches for lunch, topped by a sweet and spicy Srirachafried chicken club with Asian cucumber slaw and crunchy peanuts. Balanced between these familiar favourites — all licked with bold, calorie-conscious upgrades — are choices on the lighter side, including an egg-white frittata filled with kale, swiss chard, spinach and goat cheese. “Everything that’s on the menu is something that we stand behind — it’s all food we enjoy eating. We find what’s best out there and, along with our ideas, produce what we believe breakfast and brunch should be. It’s about what we would want to eat on a daily basis,” says Pusateri’s corporate chef Tony Cammalleri.

With a focus on fun, creative and healthful alternatives, Pusateri’s highly anticipated menu items were carefully selected with the discerning customer in mind. Along with Alan Yuen, head chef at the Pusateri’s Yorkville location,

Cammalleri invested long hours in the research and development phase to produce a smorgasbord of dishes that will appear on the menu cards of Pusateri’s Yorkville and Bayview Village locations by the second week of April 2015. Select items will also be available at Pusateri’s on Avenue Road. Inspired by their love of comfort food and driven by quality — the long-standing cornerstone of the Pusateri’s philosophy — Cammalleri and Yuen’s playful and inventive collection of new dishes ooze with the finest of ingredients: three-yearaged white cheddar, heirloom tomatoes and creamy-ripe avocados, and decadent Cuban lobster. “Our goal was to elevate comfort food while staying true to Pusateri’s proven dedication to using the finest of ingredients in all its creations,” says Cammalleri. “We also kept a lot of our crowd-pleasers but boosted their flavour profiles to make them relevant and edgier to today.” www.pusateris.com spring 2015

PHOTO BY JOHN PACKMAN

Pusateri’s Fine Foods introduces elevated comfort to its breakfast and brunch offerings this spring

Brunch will be available on weekends at Pusateri’s Bayview Village location from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., and at its Yorkville location from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Come join us this summer.

W W W. N I AGA R A F I L M F EST.C O M

FILM FOOD & WINE June 18–21, 2015

Join us at the Niagara Integrated Film Festival in the heart of the hospitable Niagara Wine Region, Canada’s # 1 tourist destination.

We bring you the best films from around the globe, and the top chefs from the Niagara Region, who will prepare gourmet feasts, paired with award-winning wines that will delight your palate.

It’s the ultimate weekend getaway.

W W W. N I AGA R A F I L M F EST.C O M

spring 2015

www.dolcemag.com

|

DOLCE MAGAZINE 65

REINVENTING THE RESTAURANT

PHOTO BY JOHN BLAIS

Creative director Sasa Mahr-Batuz (top) and CEO Andy Pforzheimer

PHOTO BY JEFF HERR

Almejas con chorizo served at Barcelona Wine Bar & Restaurant

There’s a restaurant group in the United States that’s revitalizing the concept of dining out — and we can’t get enough

S

itting at a wooden table and soaking in the rich, rustic ambience at one of Barteca Restaurant Group’s 15 eateries across the United States, you lift a forkful of something divine to your lips, knowing that this artsy space, this handcrafted dish, are a story that began 20 years ago.

Barcelona Wine Bar & Restaurant was born in the mind of Sasa Mahr-Batuz 66 DOLCE MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com

while he was living in Spain and Portugal.

Immersed in the animated sights and sounds that bounce through these European centres, Mahr-Batuz imagined creating a culinary hub that mirrored this culture: a fun, lively space that dished out powerfully flavoured small plates inspired

by Spanish eats and wines by the glass.

Eventually he connected with businessminded chef Andy Pforzheimer, and together they opened the first Barcelona

PHOTO BY JEFF HERR

WRITTEN BY AMANDA STOREY

spring 2015

PHOTO BY AMY PECK

The interior of Bartaco Restaurant’s West Midtown, Atlanta, location (left) and the exterior of Bartaco Restaurant’s Port Chester location

Wine Bar & Restaurant, a tiny, 38-seat hole in the wall adorned with radical, chic décor in South Norwalk, Conn.

Jump forward to 2015, and that one founding restaurant has blossomed into Barteca Restaurant Group, a whole family of restaurants comprised of two concepts: there’s Barcelona Wine Bar & Restaurant, the original brainchild featuring mod and classic Spanish-style cuisine and wines from little-known regions of Spain and South America; then there’s Bartaco, a beachy-casual lifestyle chain that creates upscale street food, one-of-a-kind cocktails, beers and tequilas.

THE LOOK, THE EATS, THE SYSTEM — IT’S ALL SOMETHING VERY NEW TO THE CUISINE SCENE, AND THE RESPONSE HAS BEEN WILD Headed by Pforzheimer, its CEO, and MahrBatuz, its creative director, Barteca Restaurant Group has taken America by storm.

The cool vibe of the spaces alone has made a dent in the industry, not only via the culture-infused décor but also by the assortment of people running each joint. Barteca Restaurant Group has hired real talent — chefs, sommeliers, mixologists, general managers, artisans, local farmers, interior designers, artists and architects

The interior of Barcelona Wine Bar & Restaurant’s Atlanta location spring 2015

— to comprise each of its locations, and the culmination of all this creativity gives each restaurant an identity of its own, one that locals find magnetic.

In order to keep the inventiveness flowing, the award-winning Barteca Restaurant Group has provided each of its dives with a fascinating array of resources, from in-house test kitchens and mixology labs to research trips to Spain, from cross-training for staff to signature wine blends. Adding to these are culinary director Adam Halberg, who curates ideas, recipes and fresh ingredients and passes them on to each location to be discussed and dissected in the respective test kitchens; and wine and spirits director Gretchen Thomas, who’s in charge of the alcoholic side of things, including a forever-evolving seasonal cocktail menu.

And here’s something new: the menu changes daily — not weekly, not seasonally. Novel and often unheard-of dishes are invented on the regular to bring fresh options to the table each day.

This, combined with the game-changing atmosphere, is what draws customers back again and again, even two or three times a week, in many cases.

The look, the eats, the system — it’s all something very new to the cuisine scene, and the response has been wild.

Pforzheimer and Mahr-Batuz plan to soon unveil a Barcelona Wine Bar & Restaurant in Atlanta’s West Midtown neighbourhood, and a Bartaco in Chastain Park, both in Georgia. Perhaps the chain will touch down on Canuck territory sometime in the coming years, but in the meantime, it would be wise to add paying a visit to Barcelona Wine Bar & Restaurant and Bartaco Restaurant to your culinary bucket list. www.barteca.com www.dolcemag.com

|

DOLCE MAGAZINE 67

Kevin Weiss

THE ART OF

RETREATING Cool meets cottage country with the mod Boat House, an esthetically sound structure that adds to the play and tranquility of a Georgian Bay island WRITTEN BY AMANDA STOREY PHOTOS BY ARNAUD MARTHOURET

A

quiet but profound addition has been made to Ontario’s Georgian Bay. On one of the many islands dotting the water’s northeastern shore, a private boathouse and docking facility now sits, a careful composition of modern design elements that promise not to overwhelm the serene environment in which it was built.

Designed for an active family, Boat House is a perfectly packaged centre for summer enjoyment — simple so as not to distract from the surrounding landscape, but elegant and never lacking.

Created by Kevin Weiss of Weiss Architecture & Urbanism Limited — a winner of Winnipeg’s Warming Huts international design competition this past February — the structure consists of a large cedar dock, which boasts a storage building for kayaks, canoes and windsurfing equipment, a food servery, linear shade canopies and a covered pavilion with seating.

Boat House awakens a new style of home without shouting too loud: crisp yet soft lines, innovative forms and rustic materials like a douglas fir building structure, blackstained resawn cedar cladding, galvanized steel and terncoated copper, all manifest in an architectural symphony that causes barely a ripple in the bay’s waters. Sturdily built and beautifully composed, the project not only pays respect to, but also complements the nature and culture of its surroundings.

68 DOLCE MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com

As Weiss puts it, this design intended to retreat from the trend of “bigger, better, more” that’s become so popular in cottage design, which often takes away from the landscape.

“This spirit of architecture seemed to be appropriate for the culture of Georgian Bay,” says Weiss. “While the architecture of the nearby Muskoka area tends to be more pronounced, cottages of this part of Georgian Bay historically tended to be more humble and secondary to the magnificent landscape of smooth, weathered granite and contorted jack pines. This is the landscape of the Group of Seven, after all.”

This is a novel production for Weiss Architecture & Urbanism Limited, whose usual stomping ground isn’t cottage country, but in urban communities in Canada and around the world. Having completed projects like Lennox-Addington Hall at the University of Guelph, Regis College at the University of Toronto, Temple Kol Ami in Thornhill and a series of custom homes, Boat House allows the design hub to leave its elegant signature in an unexpected pocket of Canada, far from the fluorescence, traffic and buzz of the big cities, Weiss’s usual canvas.

“I very much appreciate the quietness of the design,” says Weiss. “It was always meant to be about the landscape and the enhanced enjoyment of the place. It is very successful in that regard.” www.weissau.com spring 2015

Nestled on the quiet shore of Georgian Bay in the Archipelago, this design reimagines the traditional boathouse with modern esthetic elements and functionality

spring 2015

www.dolcemag.com

|

DOLCE MAGAZINE 69

Created by Kevin Weiss of Weiss Architecture & Urbanism Limited, Boat House was designed with the active family in mind. A large cedar dock has a storage building for kayaks, canoes and windsurfing equipment, making Boat House the ideal retreat for summer

70 DOLCE MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com

spring 2015

LAPLAYA BEACH & GOLF RESORT: SEDUCTIVE SEASIDE ESCAPE

RELAX

GOLF

DINE

As the only true beachfront boutique resort on Florida’s Gulf Coast, LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort — part of Noble House Hotels & Resorts collection — offers a front-row seat to the sparkling turquoise waters and private, sugar-white sand beaches in Naples. LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort speaks posh and panache down to the smallest details, and features crisp blue cabanas alongside cascading rock-waterfall pools, famed beach firepits, a thatched-roof tiki bar, beach butlers, the ultra-exclusive David Leadbetter Golf Academy, complete with a private 18-hole golf course, exotic SpaTerre, fine dining at BALEEN, stunning sunsets and more.

www.laplayaresort.com

I

THE

GOOD MAN Raj Kothari guides us to detoxify our professional lives by mixing business with friendship and putting others first

t’s a Monday morning in Toronto, and as half the city shuts down to make way for the year’s biggest blizzard, Rajendra “Raj” Kothari and I are looking down at it all from 26 storeys above. Despite the snowy scramble at ground level — and the lurking fear of “will my car be buried in a snowdrift by noon?” — it’s hard not to feel at ease in the midst of Kothari and his whatever-the-weather attitude.

I soon discover where Kothari sources his infectious zen. We’re in a bright boardroom in the Toronto office of PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC Canada), the multinational professional services network where Kothari spends his working hours as the company’s global assurance leader for asset management, national asset management leader in Canada and Greater Toronto Area managing partner. The titles alone are a mouthful, let alone the to-do lists they come with, but Kothari is anything but overwhelmed. In fact, he’s figured out the secret to juggling his duties and

WRITTEN BY AMANDA STOREY PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSE MILNS

72 DOLCE MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com

spring 2015

doing it with a smile on his face: he just needs to be around people. And more so, he needs the people around him to be happy.

Kothari grew up in the educationally charged, Oxford-esque town of Pune, India, and was seasoned at Poona University in India, City University in London and Harvard University. But his years of study aren’t the only motivator behind his work ethic and sense of drive, which are renowned across the industry.

“My parents were ambitious and nurturing, but what was really the tipping point in my life was my father passing away when I was just 14,” says Kothari. “I took that as a challenge.

I became a difficult child, fighting and challenging everything, and I developed a will, a desire to succeed in spite of any obstacles.”

Now, after living and working in Toronto since 1988, Kothari is not only planted firmly at the top of the corporate mountain, but he’s also a man of many friends. He holds in his hands a network of strong and diverse connections, a web that stretches from business circles to philanthropic realms, from North America to South Asia.

Among these ties is the Right Honourable Adrienne Clarkson, former Governor General of Canada, whose Institute for Canadian Citizenship is avidly supported by Kothari. Antoni Cimolino, artistic director of the Stratford Festival, is another close friend, having worked closely together during Kothari’s 16-year involvement with the festival.

“Over time Raj has become a personal friend,” says Cimolino. “And that comes from not just his being professional, and not just his being really good at what he does, but from his being a very warm and personally forthcoming and generous human being. A good person.”

Indeed, making connections and elevating those newfound friends is what Kothari does best. At work, he is the business doctor, fine-tuning his clients’ companies to perfection. “At the end of the day, it’s about them, not me,” he says. “I bask in their glory.” This humility exists both in and out of the office. On Kothari’s resumé is a lengthy list of extracurricular activities, charitable adventures, other passions that keep him on his toes when he’s not within the artadorned walls of the PwC office. In the past two decades he has lent himself to

spring 2015

Kothari is surrounded by art and culture both at work and in his charitable endeavours

several causes in the areas of health care, arts and education, and today, while this roster is somewhat smaller, his eagerness to give back is not.

“Once upon a time I was on six or seven boards at once, but I’m getting older. Now I just try to cover the mind, the body and the soul,” says Kothari. To enrich the mind, he’s on the International Advisory Council of the Dean of Schulich Business School, Dezsö J. Horváth. To benefit the body, he’s a board member and chair of the finance committee of the Toronto General and Western Hospital Foundation (TGWHF). To feed the soul, he recently joined Soulpepper (“Says it right in the name!”), Canada’s largest urban theatre located in Toronto’s Distillery Historic District.

For Kothari, Soulpepper is the successor of the Stratford Festival, which he served for many years in various capacities, including as chair of its finance committee. He stepped down in 2014 to devote himself to a smaller company that’s closer to home. Enter: Soulpepper. The love that he and his wife Shaila share for the theatre has over the years ignited in their three daughters, Shraddha, Akshara and Shruti, with Shruti now an actress and director on the rise.

And why devote so much of his personal time to these causes, rather than simply writing them regular cheques? According to Kothari, money isn’t the only way to go about charity.

“Giving time and getting truly engaged can be more enriching than just giving money,” he says. “While making financial contributions is vital, by truly engaging yourself, you understand the pulse of what really the organizations’

needs are, what drives their success, and how they are contributing to the cause that they believe in.”

Tennys Hanson, president and CEO of TGWHF, can attest that Kothari practises what he preaches. Working alongside him on the board, Hanson says she has witnessed great sparks flying from the mind of Kothari. Before the problem in the markets began in 2008, Kothari was the one who suggested the foundation come up with a stability fund to fall back on in tougher times — a breakthrough for TGWHF. “It was a lot of foresight and vision,” says Hanson. “Raj’s time and energy has produced enormous value for the foundation.”

“LIVING FOR MYSELF IS EASY, BUT GIVING BACK AND SEEING THE JOY OF THE BENEFIT OF WHAT I’M GIVING IS PRICELESS” — Raj Kothari In terms of balancing it all, Kothari might as well have a degree in time and energy management. Schedules are a common pain among businesspeople, but this exec has the art of it down pat.

“Ask a busy person to do something and it will get done,” he says. “When you believe in something, you’re passionate about something, you find the time.”

A few weeks after our mid-blizzard interview, after having chatted with a handful of Kothari’s closest acquaintances, I’ve compiled a collection of pleasant adjectives that have been attributed to him in these talks: elegant. Enthusiastic.

Bright, gracious. Insightful, with a fantastic sense of humour. The list goes on. These are what many professionals aspire, and struggle, to be, but after experiencing the edifying personality that is Raj Kothari, I know how he does it: it’s about putting others first.

“Living for myself is easy,” says Kothari, “but giving back and seeing the joy of the benefit of what I’m giving is priceless.” www.pwc.com www.dolcemag.com

|

DOLCE MAGAZINE 73

STEAL!

How education and avoiding bargain hunting can save you from buying a forgery WRITTEN BY MICHAEL HILL

F

inding out you’ve purchased a forged piece of art is one of the most embarrassing, angering and anxiety-laden experiences for any collector. When a pricey forgery comes to light it’s a chilling ordeal, especially if it involves high-profile collectors and reputable galleries — such as the infamous Knoedler & Company or scandal, where it was revealed that for le nearly two decades the once-venerable ns New York art gallery sold tens of millions of dollars worth of forgeries, including to o Toronto impresario David Mirvish. So ng how do you avoid the pitfalls of buying a forged work? ,” “They have to be willing to pay a lot,” says Mark Winter, veteran art appraiser of Art Experts Inc. Bargain hunting for art sets you up for trouble. “If you are desperately trying to speculate and to buy for very little something that is worth enormously more, you are making yourself a victim,” he says.

Real art costs money, so be ready to spend market value. Don’t be fooled by heart-wrenching excuses, either — sellers who need quick cash to pay for a family member’s hospital bill are a dead giveaway. “When you buy under these circumstances, you buy quick, you buy at a low price. Bingo. You are buying a little forgery,” says Winter.

The lesson is clear: When it comes to purchasing art, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. “You find forgeries in certain places,” he says.

“There are places where these things are sold and places where they are not.”

Reputable dealers and galleries will have likely done their homework and know exactly what a piece is and what it costs — the Knoedler scandal is the exception, not the rule. Winter notes there are two types of markets: one for real art, with its auction houses, galleries and catalogues to authenticate works; and then there is the one for forgeries, where cheap imitations can be sold fast and loose. Even if a fake enters into the real market, it usually doesn’t make it far. “Somebody is going to recognize 74 DOLCE MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com

A selection of artifacts displayed at the ROM’s “Fakes & Forgeries” exhibition. The objects on the right are modern forgeries while those on the left are authenticated pieces. Top to bottom: terracotta statue from Greece, fourth to third century BC, and forgery; cast bronze mirror, second century BC to first century AD, and forgery; sandstone relief fragment from Egypt, 2050 BC, and forgery

“IF IT HASN’T BEEN FAKED THEN IT DOESN’T EXIST” — Paul Denis, curator of the Greek and Roman Collections at the ROM it. Somebody is going to see that this is not authentic,” Winter adds. “I visit wellestablished galleries all the time. I don’t see forgeries on their walls. But I can see 20 forgeries in the next 15 minutes on eBay.”

Paul Denis, curator of the Greek and Roman collections at the Royal Ontario Museum as well as the lead curator of its travelling exhibition “Fakes and Forgeries,” explains that forgers today are becoming quite sophisticated. Launched in 2010, “Fakes and Forgeries” does sideby-side comparisons of forgeries and authentic pieces to show the lengths forgers go to fool. It features everything from Greek statues to Mayan sculptures, minerals to fossils, hockey jerseys to computer software. “If it hasn’t been faked then it doesn’t exist,” says Denis.

Thanks to online resources and picture books of artwork and antiques, forgers have more insight into how objects should look and feel than ever before. In the past, forgers would often create and sell, for example, counterfeit ancient Greek coins made of silver. They wouldn’t, however, realize that certain coins needed to be a specific weight.

Today they are much more clever.

“They practically strike the coins and they understand that certain coins have to weigh certain amounts,” he says.

Many fake coins he sees are beautiful pieces and some collectors will pay tens of thousands of dollars for them. But at the end of the day they’re still fake, just pieces of silver.

Denis recommends that those interested in collecting art or antiques should find a certain area of interest, specialize in that area and become educated on the subject. Buy literature on that art and go to museums or auction houses to get a sense of what makes a genuine piece. The most important thing, though, he says, is to have patience and look for quality. A quality work of art, like a fine wine, will get better with age and appreciate in value, whereas a mediocre piece of art stays mediocre forever. “Start educating yourself,” he says. “When people come in I just say, ‘Buy the book before you buy the coin.’”

It might just save you from buying a worthless piece of silver. spring 2015

COURTESY OF THE ROYAL ONTARIO MUSEUM © ROM. PHOTO CREDIT: BRIAN BOYLE, MPA, FPPO

IT’S A

title sponsor title sponsor

TORONTO TORONTO POLO POLO CLUB CLUB JUNE 19, 20, 21, 2015 JUNE 19, 20, 21, 2015

13401 LESLIE STREET, RICHMOND HILL 13401 LESLIE STREET, RICHMOND HILL

poloforheart.org poloforheart.org

11:30 AM - 4:00PM DAILY

proceeds to benefit

GENERAL ADMISSION $20/PERSON | KIDS 12 AND UNDER FREE | FREE PARKING š š š š

Tw wo exxci citiing ng pollo matc matche ma tches es eaachh day a Boout u iq i uees, Art Wal a k, k Silen illent Au Auct ctio ioon Drea Dr eamw ea m in mw i dss Equ quin uin inee Ed Educcat Educ atio ioon Ce Cent ent ntre tree D nee in th Di the Ma Malllllet et Lou o ngge, e, the he Rititzz Ca Carlrlrlto rlto ton ton Pooloospring Pav a ilillilion liioon n, or o brriing you o r ow wn pi p cn c icc 2015

š š š š

Cham Ch am ampa mpagn pagn pa g e Di Divo vott Stom vo mp BBM MO KKiids MO ds Zon one P iz Pr izes e for es o the bes estt pi picn c ic ic & besst haat Halfl -ttim Ha ime me en e te tert ert r aaiinm nmen ennt,t,t, inc nclu nclu luddiing lud ng the he Caana n di d ann Cow owgi girlrlr s & De gi Desc scen e de en ders rs Skyy Divver erss

www.dolcemag.com

|

DOLCE MAGAZINE 75

76 DOLCE MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com

spring 2015