Dolce Magazine - Fall 2019

Publications Mail Agreement # 40026675

RALPH LAUREN

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The Theepitome epitomeofoftastefulness tastefulness&&sophistication. sophistication.15,000 15,000 sq sqft.ft.Peter PeterHiggins Higginsarchitecture, architecture,Gluckstein Glucksteininterior, interior,Den Den Bosch Bosch&&Finchley Finchleybuilt. built.Breathtaking Breathtakingvaulted vaultedgreat greatrm. rm.

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FALL 2019 • VOLUME 23 • ISSUE 3 Publisher/Editor-in-Chief MICHELLE ZERILLO-SOSA michelle@dolce.ca Director of Operations ANGELA PALMIERI-ZERILLO angela@dolce.ca

ART DEPARTMENT Co-Founder/Creative Director FERNANDO ZERILLO fernando@dolce.ca Senior Graphic Designer CHRISTINA BAN Senior UI/UX Designer YENA YOO Junior UI/UX Designer MARIA KOROLENKO Web Developer JORDAN CARTER

EDITORIAL DEPARTMENT Fashion & Home Décor Editor MICHELLE ZERILLO-SOSA Beauty & Travel Editor ANGELA PALMIERI-ZERILLO Copy Editors and Proofreaders CATHARINE CHEN, JENNIFER D. FOSTER, NINA HOESCHELE Contributing Writers STEPHANIE CLARKE, NICKOLAS LOMBARDI, RICK MULLER, DONNA PARIS, CECE M. SCOTT, JAKE TAYLOR, JOSH WALKER Contributing Photographers PAMELA HANSON, CARLOS A. PINTO Social Media Managers ADRIANA PARENTE, JESSICA SPERA

VIDEO DEPARTMENT Videographer CARLOS A. PINTO Contributing Videographers DANIEL COOPER, LUDOVIC NORTIER

ADVERTISING Director of Marketing ANGELA PALMIERI-ZERILLO angela@dolce.ca Director of New Business Development SUSAN BHATIA susan@dolce.ca Senior Account Manager MARIO BALACEANU Account Managers CHRISTINA BONO, ADRIENNE D’AMICO

ADVERTISING INQUIRIES T: 905-264-6789 info@dolce.ca • www.dolcemag.com Office Administrator MARIA DIRICO Front Cover RALPH LAUREN AND RICKY LAUREN Portrait by PAMELA HANSON

Dolce Magazine is published quarterly by Dolce Media Group, 111 Zenway Blvd., Suite 30, Vaughan, Ont., L4H 3H9 T: 905-264-6789, info@dolce.ca, www.dolcemedia.ca 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 across Canada. Dolce Magazine is also available to over 100 million digital consumers of Magzter Inc. and Issuu. Inquiries about where else Dolce Magazine is available for sale may be directed to Dolce Media Group: info@dolcemedia.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 23 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 2370-4063 Next Issue: Winter 2019 ©2019 Dolce Media Group. Printed in Canada.

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FALL 2019

28 YEARS OF EXCEPTIONAL LIVING EXPERIENCES Hammond International Properties – The Experience Awaits

The Cotswolds 9 Arlington Way Offered at 2.38M

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PUBLISHER’S NOTE

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

Michelle Zerillo-Sosa

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief

Believe In a world that is fast becoming soulless Be challenged to find your own soul Then make it selfless.

When the television portrays only tragedy Be challenged to turn it off Spend your time working on your own humility.

If you’re surrounded by people who are envious Be challenged to cull the herd around you Fill your life with those who bring joyousness.

During the times you feel utterly hopeless Be challenged to claw your way out Understand that genuine happiness is timeless.

Find your soul. Believe in yourself. Trust in your God. Love your family. Share your plenty. Lean when you need. Live out loud.

Fernando Zerillo Love heartily. Grow your humanity.

Co-Founder/Creative Director Infect the world with your faith.

— from The Wife by Iris Imeneo

Writing the Story of Your Own Success Michelle Zerillo-Sosa, Publisher/Editor-in-Chief he act of writing something down on paper is cathartic, whether it is a todo list, a journal entry or a thank-you note. Writing things down helps us to remember what we need to do and to express what it is that we feel or want. I often wonder, when I come across individuals who have achieved great success based on their integrity and perseverance, Allende ell, in the — case Isabel of Yolanda Gampp, this could be how many lists and memos they have had to write a real possibility. If you’re not yet familiar with over the years to get to where they are today. her work, she is a multi-millionaire YouTube Imagine the notebook in which Ralph Lauren baker (3.3 million subscribers, that is) … all jotted down his thoughts after his fi rst meeting thanks to her incredible imagination. with Bloomingdale's about selling his Polo ties. One Chinese labour camp; his father had been exiled.

Th is is a woman who dreamstoupBeijing cakes for a living — of not note might have read: “They like the ties, but they They didn’t return until the end traditional tiered shapes and fl avours, but cakes that look like the Cultural Revolution, when Weiwei was 20. want to put the Bloomingdale's label on them … hot dogs, huge candy apples, watermelons, inin flavours likelife the should I sell my dream, or keep knocking The turmoil Weiwei experienced his early ultimate red velvet and chocolate cake … You get the idea. on doors?” directly influences the art he creates. His exhibition Sweet mother of God, this lady has the power to tempt even Lauren opted for the latter choice, staying Bare Life debuts at the Mildred Lane Kemper Art the strongest-willed person with her cakes! Her belief is that true to his own vision, and six months later, Museum at Washington University in St. Louis. anything is possible, and with the love and support of family Bloomingdale's came knocking on his door to For those who think print is dying, I invite them and friends, the highest levels of success are attainable. Read offer him rack space to sell his products under his to read about the success of the Helsinki Central her story on page 38. own name. Fifty years later, Lauren’s collections Library, designed

by ALA Architects.

Speaking of belief, we all pray that our faith needSince neveritsbe of stylish American sportswear still reflect his opening, the library has welcomed more than tested the way Paul De Lio’s is. Many of us go throughone life principles of quality and individuality. without The ever million At its busiest times, 20,000 dailyor havingvisitors. to question why tragedies strike our lives company that he created and built is now a legacy gather there to the supposedly soonthe lives ofvisitors others in the world.

A enjoy few years back, we published worth more than $7 billion, making Lauren to-be extinct leisure of activity reading. asking the anthe article about the definition God. Iofremember third-richest fashion designer in the world. writer to poseLydia Fenet’stonew book, The Most Powerful this question various religious leaders: “Where Artist and activist Ai Weiwei grew upwas in God a Woman in the Room Is You,Given has been oneof in moments such as 9/11?” the listed recentas state

T

CAN YOU HAVE “Write what should YOUR CAKE AND notIT be forgotten” EAT TOO?

W

natural disasters and extreme weather conditions, one could ask the same question now. In De Lio’s case, where was God when deadly bacteria infected his body, nearly taking his life and resulting in the amputation of both of his legs?

In that article years ago, one of the questioned religious leaders replied that God was in the firemen going up the stairs to rescue the people in the towers. It’s a response that to this date gives me comfort. Likewise, now, God is in the rescue workers bringing of thetosix new books that New relief Puerto Rico, Mexico andYorkers Florida.will Andlove God was in the by PureWow. Fenet is the managing director doctors who fought to save Paul De Lio. He wasand with the family global headwho of strategic Christie’s, and friends prayed forpartnerships De Lio’s life at and later, for his recovery. where raised moreafter than his halfordeal, a billion Today,she justhas a few months Dedollars Lio is filled with for over 400 non-profi ts worldwide. book, shefind ways to positivity and gratitude.

He is readyIntoher help others teaches women that secret to success is in live withother motivation.

Darethe I say, then, God also resides in De not affirmation other Lio’sseeking heart. See his storyfrom on page 32.people.

Alan Faena,it’s thepossible man behind thenot Faena Of course, you do agreeDistrict, with my thoughts the whereabouts of God. We know thattoone aon$200-million development nowallestimated be should not speak casually of politics or religion, for these the most valuable real estate in Miami Beach,are sensitive topics (although the weather isn’this exactly a safe topic anymore, writes in his memoir about how parents raised either).

Butlove perhaps you will be interested in our story about him with and freedom, which empowered the Bahá’Í Faith, religion with 5 to 7 million him to create andatorelatively explore new without limits. adherents practising globally.

If you believe in betterment of It’s stories such as these, about fi guresthe that the world, in unity, love and service, you might fi nd your place shape our culture, our surroundings and our here.

Bahá’Í’s believe in equality of all sexes, races thoughts, that continue to inspire us to write and and creeds, and in the harmony of science and religion. Story on page 74. publish each edition of Dolce, so that you too may In this day and age, we could all use more unity, love and faith, be inspired. regardless of what form it takes. May you enjoy this edition of We hope you enjoy this fall edition of City Life Magazine. It, like life, is yours to experience and do Dolce Magazine! with what you will.

Michelle Zerillo-Sosa Michelle Zerillo-Sosa Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Publisher/Editor-in-Chief

Fernando Zerillo Co-Founder/Creative Director

@dolcemag / @amorebagstoronto / @fernandozerillo @dolcetweets @amorebagstoronto

20 DOLCE MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com

FALL 2019

FIGLIA DEI FIORI E DELLA LUNA

FALL 2019

#ICONS #FIGLIADEIFIORI #BONTON #GIARDINISEGRETI

21 www.dolcemag.com | DOLCE MAGAZINE

CONTENTS FALL 2019 / VOLUME 23 / ISSUE 3

93 76

RALPH LAUREN: With an estimated net worth of more than US$7 billion, Ralph Lauren is the third-richest designer in the world

CELIA SAWYER: This Londonbased interior designer shares her views on architecture and luxury interiors

52

OBJECTS OF DESIRE: Fear not this macabre skull cup and saucer — it’s only available in limited numbers

71

FAENA HOTEL: Why the Faena Hotel in Miami is a transformational force in art, culture, design and architecture

70 36

FALL JEWELRY: Stunning pieces to adorn and dazzle

FRANÇOIS-PAUL : FrançoisPaul Journe follows in the footsteps of the 18th century’s great masters of beautiful timepieces

91

ROLEX: How Rolex continues to fuel a history of fine cars through the Goodwood Revival

22

85

JULIE VINO BRIDAL DRESS: Julie Vino’s Barcelona Collection is the epitome of romance and femininity

50 SIMON NEWTON: Former bodyguard Simon Newton’s new role as a fashion nova in London 58 PEARL LITWIN: Artist Pearl Litwin welcomes Dolce into her home to share her art collection, her love of humankind and the importance of philanthropic contributions More stories inside ...

DOLCE MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com

FALL 2019

RARE HOTEL SUITE OWNERSHIP OPPORTUNITY TO ENJOY LIFE’S FINER PLEASURES Inquire about an exclusive opportunity to purchase an (LP) for hotel suites, with access to spa, rooftop pool and lounge, and fitness facility. Construction to begin 2020. Project completion date 2022.

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FALL 2019

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DOLCE WAS THERE MAD HOT BALLET

The National Ballet of Canada has raised over $1.2 million following its annual fundraising gala, MAD HOT BALLET, at the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts in Toronto. Presented by CIBC for its 13th year and co-chaired by Rana Florida and Rochelle de Goias, this year’s event — titled Desert Dream — featured an hour-long performance with new work from choreographic associate Robert Binet, performed by dancers Skylar Campbell and Xiao Nan Yu. Following 13 the performance, almost 2,000 guests indulged in cocktails inspired by the tastes of Morocco. The news was announced

by Karen Kain, artistic director of The National Ballet of Canada, and executive director Barry Hughson. www.national.ballet.ca @nationalballet

3 2

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5 10 8 6

PHOTOS 2, 8, 10, 14, 15, 19

BY GEORGE PIMENTEL

4

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PHOTOS 3, 4, 5, 6 7, 9, 11, 12, 13, 16, 17, 18

BY ERNESTO DISTEFANO

19

7

9 17

1. The National Ballet of Canada executive director Barry Hughson, gala co-chairs Rana Florida and Rochelle de Goias and Jay Smith 2. Nick and Trish Del Sorbo 3. Sherri Pinsler, Loral Sussman and Alexandra Azouri 4. Cleophee Eaton and gala co-chair Rochelle de Goias 5. Dr. Toni Zhong 6. David Daniels and Kate Alexander Daniels 7. MAD HOT BALLET: Desert Dream 8. Emmanuelle Gattuso and Myles Mindham 9. Lynda Prince, Vanessa Mulroney and Ivan Fecan 10. Suzanne Rogers 11. Claudine Bailey and John Bailey 12. Elly Daniels and Olivia Daniels 13. Linda O’Leary 14. Maxine Granovsky Gluskin 15. Simona Shnaider 16. The National Ballet of Canada executive director Barry Hughson and Ashley Hughson 17. Nadia Di Donato 18. The National Ballet of Canada board chair Cornell C.V. Wright 19. Heather and Aaron Regent

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FALL 2019

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DOLCE WAS THERE THE ITALIAN CONTEMPORARY FILM FESTIVAL

1 2

3 4

5

PHOTOS BY LIVIA ROSCIOLI

The Italian Contemporary Film Festival (ICFF), dedicated to highlighting the best in Italian cinema both in Hollywood and internationally, celebrated its eighth edition during June at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Toronto. Hosted by Canadian journalist and fashion entrepreneur Jeanne Beker, the event was attended

by Oscar winner Nick Vallelonga, who was presented the 2019 ICFF Empire Community Award, as well as Nicola Piovani and Virginia Raffaele. www.icff.ca @icffcanada

1. Ezio Greggio at the Closing Gala 2. Nicola Piovani at ICFF Musica 3. Jeanne Beker, Maurizio Magnifico, Mara Cataldi and Cristiano de Florentiis 4. Nick Vallelonga 5. Davide Cavuti

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IFA 2019’S OPENING GALA DRAWS AN IMPRESSIVE CROWD

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3 1. Hans-Joachim Kamp (chairman of the supervisory board of gfu Consumer & Home Electronics GmbH), Michael Müller (Berlin governing mayor), Miss IFA, Reinhard Zinkann (Miele) and Christian Goeke (CEO, Messe Berlin GmbH) 2. Regina Halmich and Tina Ruland 3. Victor Schefe 4. Fernanda Brandao 5. Leonard Freier and Caona Freier 6. Hardy Krueger Jr. and Alice Krueger 7. Janin Ullmann and Chris Brow 8. Tamara von Nayhauss

26 DOLCE MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com

FALL 2019

PHOTOS BY FRANZISKA KRUG

2

On September 5, IFA, the renowned trade show for consumer electronics and home appliances, opened its 2019 edition with a memorable gala and after-show party in Berlin. Hosted by Janin Ullmann and Chris Brow, the evening included speeches from Berlin’s Governing Mayor Michael Müller, chairman of the supervisory board of gfu Consumer & Home Electronics GmbH Hans-Joachim Kamp and Yoshihiro Seki, state minister of economy, trade and industry in Japan. The event drew a crowd that included actors Caroline Bell and Gesine Cukrowski, former GNTM model Toni Dreher and featured a performance by successful German singer Alice Merton. www.ifa-berlin.com @ifa_berlin

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www.niico.com

27 FALL 2019

www.dolcemag.com | DOLCE MAGAZINE

DOLCE WAS THERE MARTHA STEWART’S MEETING WITH JEWELMER

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF JEWELMER

Lifestyle icon and businesswoman Martha Stewart recently met with executive vicepresident and deputy CEO of Jewelmer Jacques Christophe Branellec at a private event in Manila, Philippines. With Stewart a collector of the South Sea pearl and Jewelmer a pioneer of using the same pearl in its exquisite designs since its launch in 1979, it was a natural meeting of minds. www.jewelmer.com @jewelmer 1. Jacques Christophe Branellec, Martha Stewart and Mia Arcenas 2. Jacques Christophe Branellec and Martha Stewart

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PHOTOS BY VITO AMATI

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Toronto art lovers recently came together at the residence of Natty and Mark Nashman for the exclusive Evening of Art, headed by Erica and Noah Godfrey, in support of the Yogen Früz Brain Project.

An exclusive selection of the 2019 brain sculptures were on display, and guests had the opportunity to bid on them in both live and silent auctions. Attendees were treated to outstanding culinary arts from select restaurants in Toronto, including Buca, STK, Dasha (opening soon) and others.

Proceeds from the auction supported brain research, patient care, education and innovation at Baycrest. www.brainproject.ca @TheBrainProject_

1. Tara Fingold, Lauren Kimel-Wise and Jamie Wise 2. President and CEO of the Baycrest Foundation, Josh Cooper, and Michelle Cooper 3. Ryan and Leslie Kimel 4. Event hosts Mark and Natty Nashman 5. Leanne and Zach Goldstein 6. Chairs of The Brain Project, Erica and Noah Godfrey 7. Ron and Nancy Kalifer 8. Angela Palmieri-Zerillo, Michelle Zerillo-Sosa, Wendy Myles, Gina Godfrey and Ian Leventhal

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Distinctive Property Sales

160 ACRES, CALEDON | $14,995,000

SUNNYFIELD, KING | $4,250,000

KINGSWOOD, KING | $3,499,000

ROLLING HILLS FARM, KING | $3,650,000

Redesigned chic country home. Stunning valley views. Irreplaceable estate. Multiple homes and superb amenities. 10+ car garages.

Custom home with valley views. 10 private acres overlooking 800 acre nature reserve. 3 finished levels. 2 kitchens. Guest Bunkie. Spa by Betz.

Paris kitchen.

80 rolling acres with restored century home + a 2nd home. Pool, tennis court, charming stable & drive-in workshop. Distant views. Walk in to town.

16TH SIDEROAD, KING | $3,826,000

Totally renovated 5-bdrm home, 10 acres, salt water pool, 3-car garage + workshop. Deluxe main floor master suite. Open concept kitchen/dining/ living space.

150 ACRES, KING | $4,999,000

If you want land in King with AMAZING views, this is it! An original 100 acre farm. Beautiful rolling hills. 30 km western sunset views. Clear pond.

A strategically located property on Weston Road.

Distant views. Long drive leads to home & barns.

Pool, pool house, tennis, pond.

FOXLEY GREEN, KING | $24,950,000

175 WARREN ROAD, KING | $4,250,000

SO LD

8TH CONCESSION, KING | Asking $1,999,000

*Sales Representative

Elegant country living on 2 acres. 4-bdrm home Impressive stone main residence with 2 elevators, Recently built 4-bdrm in-town home. Walk to GO with deluxe finishes. Gazebo with fireplace & hot indoor pool, 80 acres + 2 more homes, stable, and station. 5 mins to private schools. 3 finished levels. tub. Outdoor bar area. Sauna. Two stone fireplaces. miles of trails. Large pond. 5 minutes to top schools. Pool. Cabana. Luxury finishes. 4-car garage.

, Brokerage

Moffat Dunlap, Chairman; John Dunlap, Broker of Record, Peter Boyd*, Murray Snider*, Nik Bonellos*, Elizabeth Campbell*, Courtney Murgatroyd*, Sean Wynn*, David Warren, Broker

W W W. M O F FA T D U N L A P.C O M | 9 0 5 . 8 41. 74 3 0

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Founded 1972: Celebrating over 45 years of service to the countryside

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www.dolcemag.com | DOLCE MAGAZINE

DOLCE WAS THERE 8 1

CONCORD’S FILM PREMIERE GALA FEATURING RARE DE BEERS DIAMOND JEWELLERY

Concord, a Canadian developer of multiphased residential communities, hosted a film premiere gala exhibiting rare De Beers jewellery during this year’s TIFF. The diamond collection, on loan from the London headquarters, was showcased within a live fashion setting, with guests offered the opportunity to take part in portrait photo studio sessions wearing the pieces. The event also saw Concord announce its own Diamond Collection of well-appointed homes, offering all buyers of the series a De Beers Jewellers̓ necklace, followed by a film screening at Roy Thomson Hall.

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www.concordadex.com @concordadex

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF CONCORD ADEX INC

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1. Aya Primbetova (centre) of De Beers and Narces models 2. Canadian 100-metre champion Sam Effah and Sofia Hegazy 3. Dominic Lam 4. Kara Alloway of The Real Housewives of Toronto, Shayne Stephens of Louis XIII and Baron Alloway 5. Gabriel Leung, Dennis Au-Yeung and Isaac Chan of Concord Adex Inc., Aya Primbetova, Oleg Minchenko, David Rees of De Beers 6. Olympian Andrew Poje and Dylan Moscovitch 7. Belinda Yan 8. Cameron Bailey, artistic director and co-head at TIFF 9. Sarah Davidson-Gurney of Bellosound

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DOLCE WAS THERE OPENING OF PETROS82, HOTEL X On September 6, Hotel X’s newest restaurant, Petros82, opened in Toronto.

Overlooking Stanley Gardens and the city’s waterfront, the Mediterranean restaurant focuses on all-natural, locally sourced ingredients, serving dishes such as grilled line-caught swordfish, misoseared cod and Atlantic lobster tail.

The venue also hosts a raw bar serving sharing plates and fresh seafood, ideal for grabbing an après dinner bite. www.petros82.ca @petros82.to

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1. Anna and Peter Eliopoulos and Pattie Lovett-Reid, CTV News 2. Peter Eliopoulos, founder ByPeterandPauls.com, Erin Breckbill, VP Sales and Marketing ByPeterandPauls.com, Anna Neri, VP Branding ByPeterandPauls.com , Elizabeth Di Vincenzo, director of business development ByPeterandPauls.com, Deputy Mayor Councillor Michael Thompson 3. Petros82 hostesses 4. Eliopoulos family 5. Frank Scarpitti, mayor of City of Markham, Peter Eliopoulos 6. Stella Acquisto, Breakfast Television, Peter Eliopoulos, Stacey Mckenzie, Model

DOES YOUR BAG grab attention? make you stylish? help cure malaria?

BAGS

amorebags.ca In Support of

30% from the sale of each bag goes to MSF info@amorebags.ca @amorebagstoronto

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PHOTOS BY CHRISTINE UNG

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www.dolcemag.com | DOLCE MAGAZINE

HOROLOGY

Chopard’s new watch brings together classic watchmaking and a passion for automotive engineering

TIME’S NEW ENGINE Chopard’s Mille Miglia 2019 Race Edition timepiece celebrates a three-decade partnership with the famous open-road race

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orn from more than 150 years of horology and a rich history of Italian motorsport comes Swiss watchmaker Chopard’s Mille Miglia 2019 Race Edition, the new watch that marks a 31-year partnership with the Mille Miglia race.

The watch is aptly named after the Mille Miglia, an open-road track spanning 1,000 miles through

Italy. It was named “la corsa più bella del mondo,” “the most beautiful race in the world,” by Enzo Ferrari, and for good reason. The route winds from Brescia to Rome, through cities such as Siena and Modena, passing some of the most stunning sights Italy has to offer.

The watch itself, which belongs to the Mille Miglia GTS collection, is available in 1,000-piece stainless steel or 250-piece two-tone stainless steel

and 18-karat rose gold. The 1,000-piece watch is dedicated to those with a penchant for speed, while the 250-piece edition takes a more peaceful approach, giving emphasis to the importance of movement. Both, however, pride themselves on performance.

The watch’s hands and hour-markers are coated with Super-LumiNova, ensuring optimum readability at all hours of the day, while the two

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PHOTO COURTESY OF CHOPARD

WRITTEN BY JOSH WALKER

PHOTO BY ALEXANDRA PAULI

Karl-Friedrich Scheufele, Caroline-Marie Scheufele, Porsche 550 Spyder A/1500 RSMille Miglia 2018, Brescia

chronograph counters feature an anthracite grey that contrasts effortlessly with the silver-toned dial. The piece is powered by a self-winding chronograph movement with an accuracy certified by the Official Swiss Chronometer Testing Institute, and it has a full two-day power reserve. This unwavering level of detail even carries through to the strap, which pays homage to the original drivers with a Dunlop 1960s tiretread motif lining.

Chopard’s partnership with Mille Miglia began in 1988, after the race was resurrected in 1977.

The brand’s Mille Miglia line, which pays tribute to some of the grand, classic esthetics of the oldest cars that took part in the race, builds a bridge between classic watchmaking and automotive engineering, and sits within the passions of KarlFriedrich Scheufele, co-president of Chopard.

The partnership doesn’t just mark a 31-year collaboration with Mille Miglia, but also the next step in a history of impeccable watchmaking that began in 1860 in the Jura region of Switzerland.

THE 1,000-PIECE WATCH IS DEDICATED TO THOSE WITH A PENCHANT FOR SPEED, WHILE THE 250-PIECE EDITION TAKES A MORE PEACEFUL APPROACH, GIVING EMPHASIS TO THE IMPORTANCE OF MOVEMENT

Founded by Louis-Ulysse Chopard, the Chopard brand has moved from strength to strength since then, pushing the boundaries of horology and esthetic.

Take the new Time Traveler One watch, for example. The brand’s first world time watch in the L.U.C collection, it transfers each of the planet’s time zones to your wrist in the form of a synchronized, streamlined design. The collection features a Toronto Edition, dedicated to the multiculturalism of the city, whose time is marked on the watch in red.

With the Mille Miglia 2019 Race Edition now available, the opportunity to own a timepiece packed with substance, style and classic racing charm has never been easier. As Scheufele says: “People say that lovers of fine cars also have a great weakness for fine timepieces and vice versa.

In both cases, sporting elegance and outstanding performance are especially important.” www.chopard.com @chopard

35 FALL 2019

www.dolcemag.com | DOLCE MAGAZINE

PRECISION TIMING

THE TEST OF TIME

F.P. Journe takes classic design, innovation and quality craftsmanship to an exclusive new level, creating impressive, beautiful timepieces that are unparalleled in the history of watchmaking INTERVIEW BY DONNA PARIS

Q. The Tourbillon Souverain Vertical is revolutionary. How did it come to be? How is it different from the Tourbillon Souverain? What are the advantages of a watch such as this?

A. The Tourbillon Souverain Vertical is revolutionary, and no other watchmaker had the audacity to conceive it.

Abraham-Louis Breguet invented the Tourbillon for pocket watches and in the pocket, the Tourbillon was in a vertical position. When the wearer put it down, he was putting it on a support in a vertical position. For this new Tourbillon, the principle is the same except it is a wristwatch: when you lay it on a table, the Tourbillon also remains vertical, and it will be vertical in all the positions, thus it will keep the same precision.

For the 20th anniversary of the Tourbillon Souverain, I was working on an idea, somewhat different but furthermore an innovation that would bring something to precision. Ideas come little by little.

I also tried to preserve the spirit of the first Tourbillon wristwatch I had made in 1991, in adding something modern. On the face, the guilloche movement is visible with a sub-dial in enamel.

Master craftsman, François-Paul Journe, is revered by true watch aficionados and connoisseurs

Q. Can you tell us a bit about your childhood? Growing up? How and when did you first become interested in watchmaking?

A. I was a terrible scholar, and my mother was wondering what she was going to do with me. During the summer, my uncle Michel, eminent restorer of antique horology in Paris, accepted me for an internship and he did communicate his passion to me and thought I had some predisposition. He advised my mother to register me at the horological school in Marseilles, France, and she did. I really enjoyed working on mechanisms and my only problem was that I would finish the work very quickly, and therefore I was disturbing the class. I was expelled from the school and I went to the watchmaking school in Paris to finish my studies. I genuinely realized the potential of creativity and satisfaction I could get when I worked in my uncle’s workshop. My passion was born, and here I am today — not that the road was easy.

Q. Is this a family business? How is your brother involved?

A. No, not at all. As I said, after having completed my watchmaking school, I became totally passionate when I worked in my uncle Michel’s workshop

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF F.P. JOURNE

Q. Do your watches share common characteristics?

A. Yes, with a quest for precision, innovation and timeless esthetics. A watch should give time with precision, but it must also provoke an emotion.

“A WATCH SHOULD GIVE TIME WITH PRECISION, BUT IT SHOULD ALSO EVOKE AN EMOTION”

in Paris. I later opened my own horological atelier. For me, independence is non-negotiable.

My brother Laurent joined me three years ago to take over the Miami Boutique; we needed a director. Today, he brilliantly manages the boutique in Los Angeles and in a very short time developed an exceptional clientele.

Q. How many watches are produced every year?

A. Nine hundred, all models combined. This number does not include the Élégante [line], which is approximately 300 watches annually.

F.P. Journe Invenit et Fecit: Tourbillon Souverain Calibre 1519, dial formed by the 4N gold bridges engraved, painted, and decorated with “clous de Paris” guilloche, with a grand feu enamel hour dial at 3 o’clock in 18-karat white gold François-Paul Journe: a master watchmaker committed to faithfully following in the footsteps of the great masters of the 18th century

Q. What place do your watches have in a world driven by technology?

A. Connected watches are not watches, they are wrist computers. Very soon, the younger generation will replace them with real watches; they are our clients for tomorrow.

Q. Why is the Patrimoine service so important?

A. It was created following the requests of clients who were looking for a specific model that was no longer in production in our collection.

By lack of trust, or knowledge, they did not want to buy a watch in a public sale, nor on the Internet. They had asked us to buy those watches for them and restore them.

The idea thus came to my mind, to buy our watches that are no longer in production and … allow recent clients who would want one of these collectible timepieces to buy them in complete confidence and completely restored, furthermore, with a guarantee.

Q. As a small, independent watchmaker, how did it feel to have one of the most expensive wristwatches sold at auction?

A. Of course it is rewarding, but it is even more gratifying to have a number of buyers passionate enough about your work to overbid each other and pay such a high price.

Q. What do you most enjoy about your work? Your life?

A. To be able to do what fascinates me on a daily basis: conceive and construct beautiful and innovative mechanical watches.

And outside of the manufacture [of watches]: share great moments with my close friends around a delicious meal and a good bottle of Burgundy wine — or a few. www.fpjourne.com @fpjourneofficial

PHOTO BY RALF BAUMGARTEN

Q. What are you most proud of? What are your hopes for the future?

A. To have kept faith in my ideas, to have been faithful to my authentic haute horology project of following in the footsteps of the great masters of the 18th century, and never deviated, without any compromise.

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www.dolcemag.com | DOLCE MAGAZINE

FASHION

IT’S IN THE BAG

Find the quintessential addition to your collection with our roundup of handbags below WRITTEN BY STEPHANIE CLARKE WRITTEN BY FULL NAME

The Zumi snakeskin medium top handle bag from Gucci offers sophisticated simplicity for your everyday needs. www.gucci.com

Chanel’s Caviar Handbag is a beautiful vintage option with a timeless style and neutral colour, making it suitable for all occasions. www.lxrco.com

Valentino’s Small Garavani Vsling bag is made from decadent calfskin and features a bold colour to match its signature design. www.valentino.com

Simply named “Rosantica,” this soft, romantic clutch is created from Marabou feathers, viscose and brass — ideal for date night. www.saksfifthavenue.com

Prada’s Saffiano Mini Crossbody Bag is a lovely pink satchel sure to offer plenty of storage space while making a statement. www.lxrco.com

For those in search of a little flair, Gucci’s Medium Leather Shoulder Bag features a shoulder strap with a multicoloured scarf. www.gucci.com

This croco-print leather mini-bag is a fabulous choice for minimalist lovers looking for a little sparkle. www.miumiu.com

Burberry’s Large Two-Tone Leather Grace Bag is a classic option for anyone looking for a little bit of extra space. www.burberry.ca

Gucci’s Sylvie1969 Plexiglas bag is a great modern twist on a classic design that offers practicality with a bright burst of colour. www.gucci.com

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A DV E R TO R I A L

THE JOIE DE VIVRE OF JEWELRY The synergy of the Carrera y Carrera and Tous brands makes for original and inspired jewelry collections under the Joie Jewelry umbrella

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ymbols are — and have always been — an important part of our history and culture.

Historically, jewelry in particular has been rich with meaning and emotion. Cleopatra, queen of Egypt, adorned herself in precious jewels not only as a means of accessorizing her colourful togas, but also as amulets to ward off evil spirits.

In fact, the infamous queen even took baths while wearing her jewels, giving a whole new meaning to sparkling clean.

In modern culture, jewelry has come to represent loving connections — visible and distinctive symbols that indicate the person wearing the piece is loved, valued and admired by others. The exchange of jewelry between two people, whether it is friends or lovers, symbolizes a deep expression of caring and connection for all the world to see. Jewelry is also timeless and represents a deeper and more meaningful expression of devotion than do either flowers or the most exquisite chocolate. “Jewelry is all about happiness and joy,” says Natalia Lisochkina, owner of the newly amalgamated Joie Jewelry, located in Toronto’s Yorkville neighbourhood.

Formerly known as Carrera y Carrera, this renowned Spanish jewelry brand was joined with another beloved Spanish jeweler, Tous Jewelry, in July 2019.

The end goal was that of creating stunning and original collections of jewelry under the jubilant new name, Joie Jewelry. “The Tous brand is very different; it is a strong complement to the Carrera

brand,” Lisochkina says. “We’ve positioned ourselves as a boutique selling only Spanish brands, which makes us a rare treasure.”

Recognizing that the giving and receiving of jewelry is most often tied to happy occasions, Lisochkina wanted the name of the store’s new collaboration between Carrera and Tous to be one that reflects a spirit of joy, literally a joie de vivre approach. “Jewelry is joyful,” she says. “It brings happiness. We buy it for happy occasions, celebratory occasions. So that is why we decided to take this happy name for our jewelry store. Incorporating the two brands under Joie Jewelry has brought double happiness to our customers.”

An icon of Spanish craftsmanship, Carrera y Carrera’s roots date back to 1885, when Saturio Estevan Carrera opened his first jewelry store in the so-called Barrio de las Letras, the same avantgarde neighbourhood where the first edition of Don Quixote was printed. Tous also has solid roots in history, with Salvador Tous Blavi and his wife, Teresa Ponsa Mas, opening a small watch repair shop in 1920. In 1965, Tous’s son, Salvador Tous Ponsa, and his wife, Rosa Oriol Porta, transformed the brand into modern, easy-to-wear collections that appealed to the new generation.

Although Tous has an extensive and diverse portfolio of products, including accessories, bags, watches, fragrances and eyewear, Joie Jewelry’s focus is centred specifically on jewelry. “We are a boutique

selling jewelry, not accessories,” Lisochkina says.

“A lot of jewelry brands copy each other, but Tous and Carrera’s designs are one-of-a-kind, influenced

by Spanish and European culture. The sculptured designs are what set us apart.”

The Barcelona, Spain-based Tous, a huge brand that creates 30 jewelry collections a year, was specifically chosen because its collections complement Carrera’s on a variety of platforms, especially around price points. Positioning itself as affordable luxury, Tous’s pieces start at $100, as opposed to Carrera, whose prices begin at $3,000.

WE’VE POSITIONED OURSELVES AS A BOUTIQUE SELLING ONLY SPANISH BRANDS, WHICH MAKES US A RARE TREASURE — Natalia Lisochkina “It gives us options for customers who come in to the store looking to buy something special for gifts and family keepsakes for generations to come,” Lisochkina says. “Tous offers more affordable options and a wide range of products for our customers, who are happy because they now have the option to choose from two different, highly unique, colourful and joyful jewelry brands.”

In an interview with Lisochkina in 2018, she shared her desire to create and design her own jewelry. Now, that dream has come to fruition. “After I find things that inspire me, I buy stones that speak directly to me, to my emotions,” she says. “I explain my ideas to one of Joie’s five designers, who then creates them professionally under the Joie brand.

Altogether, Joie’s employees, including gemologists, have over 50 years of jewelry experience.”

Which jewelry pieces that were gifted to you best represent the love, caring and joie de vivre connections that are special to you, the ones that you now wear as outward symbols of your reciprocal love for family and friends?

joie

jewelry

www.joiejewelry.ca 138 Cumberland St., Unit 6, Toronto 416-927-8181

@carreraycarrera_canada

39 FALL 2019

www.dolcemag.com | DOLCE MAGAZINE

REAL ESTATE

THE WATERMARK GRAND CAYMAN

Exclusive Caribbean living, setting the new standard for oceanfront living WRITTEN BY RICK MULLER

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arely does the opportunity to experience unparalleled privacy and luxurious living on one of the world’s most acclaimed beaches present itself. This opportunity awaits at The Watermark Grand Cayman, a private and stunning enclave of only 54 generous beachfront residences developed by Fraser Wellon, one of the most admired and respected Caribbean developers, and his award-winning team.

Overlooking sparkling and tranquil waters, The Watermark is located on prime Seven Mile Beach, Grand Cayman. This coveted and highly desired stretch of powder-soft sand beach has received the

prestigious honour of being named “The Caribbean’s Best Beach” by Caribbean Travel and Life Magazine, on an island offering easy accessibility from both Europe and North America.

“In our 30 years of Caribbean development experience, The Watermark is our defining statement,” says Fraser Wellon. “Its exquisite location provided us with a unique creative palette upon which to offer the finest combination of quality architecture and design. Its personalized bespoke services are destined to set a new standard for world-class oceanfront living by offering an exclusive and private residential environment with five-star, resort-style amenities and services, tailored

to any individual desire to enhance the experience and ambience.”

Residences at The Watermark are designed as the very definition of subtle elegance and opulence, with distinctive features and the rare quality of fine craftsmanship throughout. Elegantly appointed and graciously inviting, homes are designed to suit any lifestyle with cutting-edge architecture and bespoke interior design.

The residences also feature glass-window walls, which embrace the natural beauty of the Caribbean surroundings through glorious and forever views of water, beach and sky. The ultimate result are homes which offer the finest in elegant living, while creating

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enchanting environments of peace, beauty, style and sophistication.

Amenities at The Watermark are designed for both those who desire privacy and exclusivity or those who enjoy a more socially active lifestyle.

Exquisite pools, private beachfront cabanas, a screening room, library lounge, oceanfront owner’s conservatory with wine storage, full bar and chef ’s kitchen and a private dining room are offered within an exclusive community that enjoys the finest life has to offer.

The 24-7 valet, concierge and bespoke personal services are delivered to the highest standards with impeccable style and attention to detail, which will always exceed expectations. For healthy mind and body, indulge in supreme style within the exclusive elegance of the full-service spa and state-of-the-art fitness facilities. With private training and treatment rooms offering a wide variety of personalized programs, The Watermark’s superb facilities will stimulate the body, energize the mind and nourish the soul.

With a fine-dining restaurant and stylish beachfront lounge, The Watermark will be an environment offering an intimate atmosphere of chic hospitality and world-class ambience. An exciting selection of refreshments and exotic cocktails are served daily, and diverse chef-inspired menus create evenings of a wide variety of gourmand experiences to please the most discerning palates.

The Watermark’s personal and hospitality services will anticipate and deliver on every desire and individual requirement, providing the ultimate lifestyle experience.

“In every way, residents at The Watermark will embrace and enjoy effortless living,” says Wellon.

“That feeling inspired our creativity throughout every aspect of this truly remarkable collection of homes and the services that will be available.”

The Watermark will attract the discerning homeowner who appreciates the finest in quality by which to live life to the fullest. Here, paradise is found with the ultimate in exclusive Caribbean living.

From its design, amenities, features, quality and exclusivity, The Watermark offers unrivalled personal services and a suite of unequalled lifestyle options amid complete privacy. Richly deserved, The Watermark will rightfully reward a life without limits among grandeur that sets a new global standard in residential beachfront living.

Sales Inquiries 1-(345)-925-6404 info@thewatermarkcayman.com www.thewatermarkcayman.com @the_watermark_cayman

ARTIST CONCEPTUAL RENDERING

ARTIST CONCEPTUAL RENDERING

The Watermark will be an idyllic oasis surrounded by the natural beauty, views and tranquil presence that is a Caribbean lifestyle

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www.dolcemag.com | DOLCE MAGAZINE

ART

Ai Weiwei (Chinese, b. 1957), Forever Bicycles, 2011.

Installation view, Taipei Fine Arts Museum, 2011.

Ai Weiwei (Chinese, b.

1957), Vases with Refugee Motif as a Pillar, 2017.

Porcelain, 122 13/16 x 19 7/8” diameter (312 x 50.5 cm). Courtesy of Ai Weiwei Studio.

AI WEIWEI

AN ARTIST WITH HEART

Living life across the globe has given Ai Weiwei an original perspective on political and social issues. His new exhibition — Ai Weiwei: Bare Life — is poised to share those insights with the world WRITTEN BY STEPHANIE CLARKE

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PHOTO COURTESY OF AI WEIWEI STUDIO

Ai Weiwei, an artist with eyes wide open, shares his insight in his new exhibition at Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum

PHOTO BY JOSHUA WHITE/JWPICTURES.COM

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orn in Beijing in 1957, political dissident and artist Ai Weiwei lived the first 20 years of his life outside of the city. His first years were spent in a labour camp, while the rest saw the young boy exiled with his family in Xinjiang, China. It was not until 1976 that the artist returned to the city of his birth, following Mao Zedong’s death and the fall of the Cultural Revolution. Once back home, the artist began studying animation at the Beijing Film Academy, but he was ultimately led to apply his talents elsewhere.

The turmoil Weiwei experienced during the formative years of his life has had a direct and significant impact upon the art he creates. He has always explored themes like human rights on a global scale, as well as those more targeted at domestic issues within China itself. These were things he explored fully during his years spent in New York City throughout the 1980s and 1990s, where Weiwei first began to create his widely recognized conceptual artwork in addition to the more traditional photographs he took of police violence, political unrest and homeless people — all concerns that have remained central to his artistic practice.

Weiwei did not spend all of his time overseas, however. He returned to China in 1993 and immediately began to give back to the creative community. He helped establish a number

of spaces held dear by many Chinese artists, including the China Art Archives & Warehouse, and the artist colony at Beijing East Village. He also contributed to the design of the National Stadium, known as the “Bird’s Nest,” specially built for the Beijing 2008 Summer Olympics, as well as FAKE Design, an architecture studio. It was in 2008, however, that Weiwei’s issues with China’s government really began in earnest.

After the 2008 Sichuan earthquake that killed thousands, including thousands of children, Weiwei emerged as a government critic after questioning how the earthquake was handled, and how the government could have minimized the death toll so significantly. He was arrested in 2011 and spent four years under constant surveillance.

It wasn’t until 2015 that his passport was returned, and he was permitted to leave the country.

Today, Weiwei works and lives in Berlin.

He has poured his heart and soul into the Ai Weiwei: Bare Life exhibition being presented by Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum, located at Washington University in St. Louis. He hopes that the work, presented in two sections, Bare Life and Rupture, adequately convey his feelings and intent on current society — as well as past and future concerns — to the public. www.aiweiwei.com @aiww

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WINE

EXCEPTIONAL WINES AND AUTHENTIC ITALIAN CUISINE

DEFINE LA DOLCE VITA Hard work, perseverance and an entrepreneurial family spirit have been the keys to success for Two Sisters Vineyards WRITTEN BY NICKOLAS LOMBARDI

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“WE TRY TO BRING A LITTLE BIT OF EUROPEAN FLAVOUR TO NIAGARA-ON-THE LAKE” Founding sisters, Melissa Marotta-Paolicelli and Angela Marotta

— Melissa Marotta-Paolicelli

PHOTO BY CARLOS A. PINTO

W

hat is a winery? By strict definition, it is a location or business where wine is produced. But imagine entering a 76-acre haven where you can taste exceptional wines alongside authentic Italian cuisine — all while enjoying picturesque views of Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ont. This winery oasis, Two Sisters Vineyards, is a popular destination for those wishing to taste some of the province’s award-winning wines.

Founders and sisters Angela Marotta and Melissa Marotta-Paolicelli have created a luxurious space for people to not only indulge in fine wines, but also create long-lasting memories. “For us, we love to make people happy,” Paolicelli says. “It’s such a high to know that people come to the winery to celebrate special occasions with us. It is absolutely an honour. We try to bring a little bit of European flavour to Niagara-on-the-Lake.”

The sisters’ passion for and background in wine began while growing up in their Italian household growing up. “We were a small family … our parents used to take my sister and I out for dinner every Friday and Saturday night. We never enjoyed wine without food or food without wine — it really came together, in every experience we had,” says Marotta. It was their father who instilled in them the value of hard work and perseverance, and this has served them in the creation of their own winery. “Our father always pushed us out of our comfort zone, which allowed us to grow as women and as mothers … and to instill these same values in our own children,” Paolicelli says.

“There is a level of risk in everything that you do,” Marotta explains. “There has to be a clear vision … and being an entrepreneurial family that has multiple businesses, it has always been

about ensuring a true value to our guests and consumers.” Paolicelli adds: “With Two Sisters Vineyards, we took a chance to solely focus on upper-tier Canadian wines, and we set our goals on producing ultra-premium wine. Because of that, we have received national and international recognition.”

While visiting the Best Small Winery in Canada, as voted by the National Wine Awards in 2018, a must-try is the luxurious 2013 Merlot, as well as the 2015 Cabernet Franc, whose texture evolves as you taste and swallow it. And don’t forget the 2016 Blanc de Franc, which was named Best Sparkling Wine of the Year at the 2019 All Canadian Wine Championships. The rustic yet elegant menu of on-site restaurant Kitchen 76 pairs perfectly with these original wines. The authentic Italian dishes showcase produce from local farmers and seasonal produce from the Two Sisters, property itself.

Marotta and Paolicelli have created the ultimate winery experience. They even plan to add a hotel to their estate in the near future for the comfort and ease of guests who wish to drink without having to worry about the drive home.

With all this insightful knowledge about life and wine, strong family values, warming presence and with a gorgeous vineyard - what more can a person ask for in a winery! Indulging in quality wine and food is all part of la dolce vita, and drinking in good company always enhances the atmosphere. As Paolicelli puts it: “Life gets so busy and hard at times, it’s very important to stop and surround yourself with people whom you love and do things that you enjoy.” www.twosistersvineyards.com @twosisters_vineyards

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ARCHITECTURE

ARCHITECTURE + DESIGN WRITTEN BY RICK MULLER

When these clients first approached with a request to design their family home overlooking the Mediterranean in the heart of downtown Beirut, the couple’s vision was of an industrial style.

But through consultations with the artisans at Askdeco Interior Design Studio, now in its 18th year, the design idea collaboratively evolved into a vision of a more refined and livable space.

The result is One Oak 3&4 B2, a 700-square-metre, two-storey duplex that meets both the industrial feel and a more comfortable family atmosphere. The space has two distinct atmospheres: a public, playful side on the upper level and a more private lower level.

Earthy colours, textured walls, gunmetal finishes and grey marble flooring are combined with wood and cosier finishes to produce a more home-like feel. Askdeco’s consultative and honest conversations brought the design of One Oak 3&4 B2 to an ideal marriage of old and new, work and play. www.askdeco.com

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PHOTOS BY ALEX JEFFRIES

Askdeco Interior Design Studio brings new thinking to a family home in Beirut

Chain10 Architecture’s Green Isle Restaurant in Taiwan sets a new standard Designing a restaurant with a focus on nature in a dense urban area such as Kaohsiung, Taiwan, meant new thinking for wellknown designer Ken Lo, who operates Chain10 Architecture in the south of the country. What he has created with the Green Isle may have just set the bar for what environmental sustainability should look like in a commercial restaurant space.

Materials were locally sourced to reduce emissions during transport, and some exterior walls were barely painted. In order to respect the relationship between the building and a green environment, indoor decorations were simplified. Nothing was complex or intricate — the focus was kept on modern, simple choices.

The main entrance to the nearly 6,000-square-metre restaurant features a bridge over a 120-metre landscaped pool, which sets the tone for diners at the entrance by creating a connection between the building and the water. Surrounding Green Isle are more than 250 large trees, reducing the carbon emissions from the project and enhancing the feel of nature within a metropolitan area.

With the Green Isle, the third restaurant in the Tan Zuo Ma Li chain, Ken Lo has created an environment allowing people to pause and enjoy the beauty of their surroundings.

PHOTO BY TUOMAS UUSHEIMO

www.chain10.com

Oodi, the new Helsinki Central Library designed by ALA Architects, has been one of the most successful library launches in recent memory. Opened in December 2018, it welcomed its one millionth visitor just three months later and some days attracts up to 20,000 people. But no one feels rushed or crowded out due to ALA’s innovative design, which may represent a new era in public libraries.

The award-winning Oodi’s design divides the functions of the building into three distinct levels: an active ground floor, a peaceful upper floor and a more function-oriented in-between level.

Oodi opens directly to the surrounding cityscape of central Helsinki, with the wooden front facade arching over the ground floor as a dramatic bridge-like structure. The massive entrance canopy forms a covered outdoor space and allows the library’s functions to expand into the neighbouring Kansalaistori Square. The resulting column-free spaces make the library ideal for all sorts of community events.

The open space on the upper floor is topped with a cloud-like undulating ceiling, with panoramic views of the city. With Oodi, ALA Architects has created a welcoming and engaging space with a serene atmosphere that invites visitors to learn, read and relax. www.ala.fi

FALL 2019

PHOTOS BY MOOOTEN STUDIO/QIMIN QU

ALA Architects’ award-winning design of Oodi Library in Helsinki

INSPIRATION

DEFERENTIAL TO DYNAMIC

Lydia Fenet exuding the aura of being the most powerful woman in the room

PHOTO BY JENA CUMBO

FROM

Empowerment begins with inner confidence and outward networking WRITTEN BY CECE M. SCOTT

F

rom time immemorial, women have been taught, especially in the workplace, to be deferential, which, by dictionary definition, means “yielding to the judgment or opinion of others.” Historically, it has involved the quiet bending to the loudest or most powerful voice in the room, which, in most cases, has been male.

The opposite of this behaviour is confidence, being sure of oneself — a certainty of mindset about one’s abilities and capabilities.

For Lydia Fenet, managing director and global director of strategic partnerships for Christie’s

auction house, building confidence, even if it is “faking it until you make it,” involves envisioning and writing down your personal plans and goals, and ultimately practising and vocalizing them, either with a friend or in front of a mirror.

“In the past, our society has taught women to behave in a certain way. Interestingly, it is usually the woman who gets up to pour the water for everyone else in a meeting, even if she is in a senior position. However, the dialogue is changing. What we are hearing and seeing now is, girls are strong; girls are powerful,” Fenet says.

“Confidence comes from believing in yourself;

and confidence will come if you are secure in yourself. Dig deep, discover who you are and bring that to the table every time. Come to things as your authentic self.”

Born in small-town Louisiana, Fenet is a highly successful benefit auctioneer and first-time author.

Her book, The Most Powerful Woman in the Room Is You: Command an Audience and Sell Your Way to Success (Simon & Schuster, 2019), was touted in an April blog post by digital lifestyle brand PureWow as one of six new books New Yorkers will love. She has raised more than half a billion dollars for more than 400 non-profits worldwide.

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After visiting New York several times while she was in high school, Fenet knew it was the city she wanted to live in “when she grew up.”

Fenet studied history at Tennessee’s Sewanee: The University of the South. But after reading an article about the auction world, her career path took a hard right, and she declared a major in art history. “There was something about the auction world that seemed so appealing to me,” Fenet says.

“I love art and I discovered art history during my college years. I just loved the idea of travelling for a job, meeting people who were at the top of their industry and had a voracious curiosity for art.”

After declaring art as a second major, Fenet, through persistence and ingeniousness, secured two successive summer internships at Christie’s.

By the time she graduated in 1991, at the age of 21, Fenet was a permanent staff member at Christie’s.

The key skills Fenet learned early in her career included the art of negotiating, a networking strategy to increase her footprint and help her succeed, and the importance of being an advocate for herself in the workplace. “Nobody is going to push the envelope and make things magically happen for you,” she says. “Expecting someone to do so is one of the greatest pitfalls.”

In her 10th year at Christie’s, however, Fenet realized she was being wildly underpaid for her role, which forced her to do some serious soul searching. Faced with two choices — either find a way to stay with the company she loved or go somewhere else — she was pushed into action.

“I went into my boss’s office and told him I was leaving, even though I wasn’t,” she says. “I wanted to make sure I got his attention, that he realized it was time to pay me the money I deserved.”

The anomaly of being a female auctioneer has changed dramatically over the past several decades. What was previously a male-dominated sector is now women-inclusive. In fact, Fenet, who owns between 10 and 15 gavels, says that when she is unavailable for an auction, she is often asked if there is another female auctioneer available. “It is nice to know that perceptions can change over time,” Fenet says. “As a woman auctioneer, charm and femininity can be used in spades onstage. There is no need for me to go head-to-head with every guy in the room, like some of the male auctioneers do. That is not a dynamic I am comfortable with. Using positive energy to lift the crowd is a very feminine way of taking an auction,” she says. “And the crowd responds very well to that approach. Embracing an approach that is supportive and affirming, rather than competitive, is something I have been able to change with the male auctioneers I teach.”

Fenet, who says being an auctioneer is not for the faint of heart, begins each of her auctions with a symbolic ritual, one that has become her signature move. “At the beginning of each auction, I slam the gavel down so forcefully that audiences

“STRENGTH COMES FROM SHARING YOUR STORY IN A WAY THAT IS HELPFUL FOR OTHER PEOPLE”

From intern to managing director and global head of strategic partnerships at Christie’s auction house, Lydia Fenet, named one of New York’s most powerful women, shares her 20-year journey and message of empowerment and confidence in her new book

jump — it makes them take notice,” she says. “I call it my ‘Strike Method,’ which is really about capturing the attention and imagination of the people in front of you.”

Knowing she had to advocate for herself throughout her career, Fenet has been a strong leader and supporter of women-focused networking, organizing sessions that delve not only into workplace issues, but also the everyday challenges in life. “Strength comes from sharing your story in a way that is helpful for other people,” she says. “Frankly, that is why I wrote The Most Powerful Woman in the Room Is You. I felt it was incumbent on me to help young people in their 20s and 30s, to share my mistakes with them, as well as provide ideas and tools that will be helpful,” Fenet says. “I want people to get out there and have the life they want. We already have the permission to go after our dreams in a big way. Use it.”

The top performer in her field, Fenet sells some of the most fantastical experiences, ones that an individual could not access on their own. She has auctioned off such outsized experiences as dancing lessons with Madonna and dinner with Matt Damon.

With three young children under the age of seven — Beatrice, 6 (“She is a force; I feel like I am parenting myself half the time.”); Henry, 5 (“A sweet little guy who loves playing with his Lego.”); and Eloise, who is two and a half (“She is fearless, nothing stops her.”) — life for husband, Chris, who works in private equity, and Fenet, who takes between 70 and 100 auctions a year, is all about a 10-balls-in-the-air juggling act. “My nights are definitely a little crazy trying to get homework done and the kids in bed before I have to go back out in the evenings,” she says. “People ask me how long I am going to continue to do this kind of work, and I tell them, ‘Until I don’t love it anymore.’”

As she does in business, Fenet activates her wide network of support to effect the proverbial work-life balance. “Balance to me is really all about what you want out of life. If I find myself in a place where I am deeply unhappy with the way things are going, I self-correct. I call in reinforcements when I need them — my parents, sisters and brothers, in-laws,” she says. “I really activate that family network and lean heavily on them. I am never afraid to ask for help. We as women do a disservice when we think we always have to be in control.”

For Fenet, being the most powerful woman in the room means not seeking affirmation from other people — and doing what she wants in her life, because she wants to. “Being powerful also makes me feel I am in the right place, doing the right thing at the right time.” www.lydiafenet.com @lydiafenet

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FASHION: CELEBRITY STYLE

THE

FASHION NOVA OF BODYGUARDS

Former British soldier Simon Newton is ending the stereotype of bodyguards just being a piece of muscle WRITTEN BY NICKOLAS LOMBARDI

to be current in terms of his or her appearance.

Not only are they representing the person they are looking after, but they are also representing me and my company.” This U.K. gentleman is always on the go; he is constantly working out in his spare time or working on his acting career. “Simple fact

“TO BE SUCCESSFUL, YOU HAVE TO PUT THE HOURS IN AND KEEP PUTTING THEM IN”

of the matter is, you make time. There are 24 hours in a day, and I am happy with six hours’ sleep.

At times it can be busy, but I love what I do and wouldn’t change anything. To be successful, you have to put the hours in and keep putting them in.”

Newton is a trailblazer in the security business and is redefining what a bodyguard can be.

Q. Growing up, was there anyone who inspired you to care about dressing well, or did your fashion sense just come over time?

A. Not at all. If anything, [it’s] the opposite. I wasn’t very cool and fashionable as a child. It wasn’t until I was around 19 that I took an interest in what I was wearing.

Q. You have been hired by some A-class celebs such as Michael Jackson and Bella Hadid. How are these celebs behind closed doors?

A. Everyone I have looked after has been great.

Behind closed doors, they are no different to anyone else. Celebrities are only normal people in a very public industry, after all.

Q. Can you share a moment from your bodyguarding career where something unexpected happened and your client’s life was in immediate danger? How did you react and solve the situation?

A. In the U.K., we are lucky enough to not really get problems that are life-threatening. When I first started my career as a bodyguard, I was working in the Middle East. Both of the countries I worked in were very hostile environments to be in. Although we used to carry firearms, if you were having a bad day, you really were fighting to protect the client. Unfortunately, in that part of the world, although we never lost a client, some of the bodyguards made the ultimate sacrifice to keep the client safe. www.simonnewtonlondon.com @simon.newton

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PHOTO COURTESY OF SIMON NEWTON

D

o you know what Michael Jackson and Bella Hadid have in common? The most fashionable bodyguard you have ever seen.

This fashion nova is Simon Newton, and he represents high-profile celebrities in an urban, hip way.

A former member of the British Army, Newton took to becoming a bodyguard after his time with the military. Besides having a military background, Newton was getting noticed and later hired by bigtime celebrities for how well he dresses in public.

He is known for wearing the appropriate attire for every public appearance alongside a celebrity.

For instance, when Newton is seen in public beside top-named model Bella Hadid, he ensures to dress based on the places he is visiting with her.

It can be anywhere from a high-ticketed runway show, where a suit is required, to just walking on the sidewalk in a bomber jacket, rugged black shirt and stylish jeans. The icing on the cake is that he does not take any fashion advice from anyone, not even a celebrity. Newton takes pride in knowing how to dress for any occasion, but he also makes sure to never overdress, either. Newton will never outdress a client, as he wants the spotlight to always be on them.

Aside from being a bodyguard, Newton also owns a security company called Askari Secure Ltd, located in the U.K. And when hiring bodyguards, Newton does try to find fashionable employees.

“Each bodyguard is chosen on their security experience and who we think will be best suited with that particular client. That being said, when looking after celebrities, we do like the bodyguard

A prime example of Newton showcasing his fashion sense by wearing a striking yet elegant bespoke navy blue suit

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WRAPPED HEART BROOCH: As one of Verdura’s most recognized designs, the Wrapped Heart Brooch dates back to 1941, when American actor Tyrone Power commissioned a cabochon ruby heart tied in gold for his wife at Christmas | www.verdura.com

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ELISABETTA FRANCHI FW19: With designs worn by the likes of Angelina Jolie, Emily Blunt and Kate Hudson, Bologna-born designer Elisabetta Franchi’s striking pieces work to a “Made In Italy” mantra | www.elisabettafranchi.com

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RADIANT CUT DIAMOND RING: Designed by Mark Lash, this ring pays testament to diamonds, with, a cut diamond set upon a diamond surround and band | www.marklash.com

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ELLIPTICAL KINETIC PAINTING: Francis Celentano’s painting, brought to life in 1967, is an abstract, acrylic that celebrates the op art, or optical art movement, coined in the 1960s | www.1stdibs.com

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ENLIGHTENMENT: Through a process of Japanese joinery and origami, Torontobased emerging visual artist Andrew Ooi creates sculptural paper pieces focused on the power of pattern | www.andrewpjooi.com

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PAPILLON CABINET: French cabinetmaker Jean-Luc Le Mounier builds butterflies into this cabinet, which opens with black straw marquetry wings set upon expertly hinged doors to shelves and hidden compartments | www.lemounier.fr

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PINK ONYX BACKLIT BAR: Situated in the etherial escape of private members, club Annabel’s in London, this pink onyx, backlit bar lives in the Rose Room, surrounded by bespoke tulip and iris chandeliers | www.annabels.co.uk

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From furniture to fashion, across London and Toronto, explore the conversation pieces you need this season WRITTEN BY JOSH WALKER

OBJECTS of

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NACHTMANN ASPEN DECANTER SET: This stylish

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MASON DINING CHAIR: Made with velvet fabric, walnut wood and polished brass, the Mason Dining Chair from Mezzo Collection adds a contemporary touch to any dining room | www.mezzocollection.com

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LAVISH DESIGN: Based in Toronto, Lavish Design’s team of design, architecture, projectmanagement and engineering experts creates bespoke spaces centred on sustainability | www.lavishhomes.ca

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UPCYCLED VINTAGE GOLD SKULL TEACUP: Melody Rose London’s upcycled skull teacup, made in very limited numbers or as oneoff pieces, takes an original vintage ceramic and incorporates the macabre image with a kiln fired at more than 800 degrees | www.melodyrose.co.uk

cut crystal set, with vertical cuts around the perimeter of the glass, comes complete with a decanter and six glasses | www.cocktailemporium.com

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DESIRE

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TRUE THINLINE LES COULEURS LE CORBUSIER: Swiss watch brand Rado’s latest collection pays tribute to renowned architect Le Corbusier with hightech ceramic watches created in the architect’s nine Architectural Polychromy colours | www.rado.com

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GARAGE LIVING: Blue can conjure up a sense of calm and relaxation. It can stir our spirit, creating renewed energy. Inspired by a weekend getaway surrounded by water, docks and spectacular skies, the Garage Living Harbor Blue Designer Series unites a curated palette of ultra-premium décor finishes to evoke the ultimate feeling of freedom and tranquility.

Garage Living creates luxury garage interiors with style, custom details, and function in mind | www.garageliving.com

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CREATOR

PHOTO BY ELIDO TURCO

Turco’s work takes many forms — he is a self-described “artist who is not a painter, a graphic designer who is not an advertising man”

ALEX TURCO:

A MASTER OF MEDIUMS

With a career that spans the worlds of design, interiors and art, Alex Turco is a creative force to be reckoned with WRITTEN BY JOSH WALKER

F

or Alex Turco, art has always been a constant. With a father who was and still is a painter, graphic designer and photographer, Turco’s esthetic is one fuelled largely by the creativity imbued in him from a young age.

By the time he was nine he’d won awards like “Best Young Photographer,” he’d seen his work

published in magazines, and by the age of 13 he was experimenting with graphic design. While he still utilizes those early experiences in his work today, it wasn’t long before he had strayed into stage and set design, fashion and interiors.

For Turco, his success didn’t just come from the inspiration he took from his father, but also from his unconventional approach to

collaboration. “Thanks to my father I started as a graphic designer and painter,” says Turco.

“I grew up with these from the beginning. The key to our success, however, was to believe in interior design firms and architects, rather than art galleries or art collectors. That was very different and unusual for an artist, but it was key. We called designers we liked at the time,

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PHOTO BY MATTHIAS PARILLIAUD

PHOTO COURTESY OF ALEX TURCO PHOTO COURTESY OF ALEX TURCO

While Alex Turco’s artistic journey began with painting and graphic design, it wasn’t long until he began to venture into the world of interior design

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The striking visual impact of Turco’s decorative art panels has made them so sought after that they’re considered cult objects. They can be found in homes and commercial spaces worldwide — including Fendi showrooms across the USA

sent samples and afterwards they would send us requests and we would do the work.”

Today, Turco’s work revolves around decorative art panels that have, due to their striking visual impact, become so sought after that they’re considered cult objects. They can be found in homes across Italy and America, as well as commercial spaces worldwide. Fendi is one such client, and Turco has designed panels for the brand’s Miami, New York, Washington, DC, and Los Angeles showrooms. “We always ask which colour or material a designer uses so we can match that,” he continues. “We always want our work to complement a space, rather than break a style.”

When asked what inspires him, Turco is quick to proclaim his love for nature, minerals and fossils, stating that the natural world is the “best inspiration.” But, beyond that, he enjoys looking at other artists to inspire his craft. “I love the photographer David LaChapelle, Italian artist Vincenzo De Cotiis and fashion house Saint Laurent,” he continues. “Because what we do is mixed media, I try to take inspiration from everything and all artists so I can use it to create something new.”

Having worked on so many projects across so many mediums, Turco needed a new way to brand himself. As his website states, after becoming “an artist who is not a painter, a graphic designer who is not an advertising man, a non-professional photographer, an entrepreneur,” he decided to brand himself in 2006 as an ARTDESIGNER. And though it may be hard to pick a highlight or favourite moment with such an expansive career, he states that projects like his collaboration with Louis Vuitton in Beijing, Shanghai and Los Angeles were particularly poignant as “they inspired us with future projects.”

Currently based in Los Angeles, Turco shows no sign of slowing down and is already working on his next project, Only One. “It will be a collection of unique furniture pieces that incorporates tables, coffee tables and so on,” he explains. “It will be something very different to what we normally do but people like bespoke, unique design pieces so I feel it’s a strong idea.”

But, aside from his work, Turco enjoys the simple things in life. “An ideal, beautiful day for me is to wake up early. I prefer the day to the night. I’d work out, work on my creations and spend time with nature,” he concludes. “This is why I live in Los Angeles. It’s the best place to wake up early, walk and spend time with my wife.” www.alexturco.com @alexturcoartdesigner

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF ALEX TURCO

“WE ALWAYS ASK WHICH COLOUR OR MATERIAL A DESIGNER USES SO WE CAN MATCH THAT. WE ALWAYS WANT OUR WORK TO COMPLEMENT A SPACE, RATHER THAN BREAK A STYLE”

HOSPITALITY

AN ISLAND IN THE SEA PHOTO BY DAVID SUNDBERG

We dare you to find a better resort than Sea Island. With this kind of care, attention to detail, amenities and authentic southern hospitality, it’s just not possible. When a resort gets four Forbes Five-Star Awards 11 years in a row, it’s because it’s doing everything right

PHOTO BY ELIOT VANOTTEREN

WRITTEN BY DONNA PARIS

There’s no shortage of fun to be had at Sea Island Resort. From beautiful scenic lounging around a pool, loads of childrens’ activities or lounging and exercising outdoors, it’s a place where kids and adults get to refresh their spirits in nature

H

ow far would a resort go to make someone happy? At Sea Island Resort in Georgia, along the southeast coast of the Atlantic Ocean, pretty far. Imagine this: Tara, who worked at the front desk, saw a young guest come back from the stables. The girl had really been looking forward to the day, but things had not gone as planned.

So Tara called the stable and arranged for a much better experience the next day. Everyone was happy, including the girl and her mom. But what the mom didn’t know is that Tara went to the mainland and picked up a cute stuffed horse.

She attached a note apologizing for how the day went and looking forward to a better one the next day. “The little girl was over the moon — and Tara didn’t ask a supervisor, she just did what was in her heart,” says Merry Tipton, the director of marketing communications at Sea Island.

“This story is not unusual,” says Tipton. “It’s our people who have always set us apart.” The luxury

resort itself is the only one in the world to achieve four Forbes Five-Star Awards 11 years in a row.

There’s a reason for that. It’s in the details and the attention to comfort. You notice it the second you set foot on the resort.

From the world-renowned accommodations to spectacular golf courses, the resort offers an unparalleled array of options. “You can’t ski or snowboard here, but you can do everything else,” says Tipton. With miles of private beach, you can enjoy kayaking, sailing or paddle boarding, fishing and boating, play tennis or go to the Shooting School. Or check out the oceanfront pool with an infinity edge overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. If you’re looking to relax, head to the spa for soulnourishing treatments, a eucalyptus-infused steam bath or hydrotherapy.

And whether you live to golf or you are picking up a club for the first time, the resort accommodates everyone from pros to beginners with three championship courses (including Seaside and Plantation, home of the PGA Tour’s RSM Classic)

and an all-new, 17,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art Golf Performance Center.

It’s a place steeped in history. Built in 1928, the resort started out as a “friendly little hotel” built by auto magnate Howard Coffin and Bill Jones. They called it The Cloister, but it has since expanded to include The Lodge, The Inn and now cottages as well. The resort has hosted visiting heads of state, and shortly after the opening, President Calvin Coolidge planted the first commemorative oak tree, a tradition followed by many others, including President Barack Obama.

It’s a place where adults and kids get to refresh their spirits in nature, with walking tours such as the Hawk Walk and getting to meet Owlivia, the resident screech owl, in the falconry program. As for kids, their imagination and curiosity get free rein, whether watching baby sea turtles hatch or baking chocolate chip cookies. “We have programming for kids aged three to 14,” says Tipton.

And don’t forget about the dining: at Sea Island, the choices are as plentiful as they are delicious, with options to suit everyone, from beachfront bites and poolside casual eating to a warm and intimate steakhouse and Tavola, Italian meals with homemade pastas and pizzas.

When pressed for the secret of its success, Tipton goes right back to the start. “It’s the spirit of the people who work here,” she says simply. And with average year-round highs of more than 21 C, so much to do and plenty of ways to relax, you can’t not have a good time. “Come see for yourself!” says Tipton with authentic southern hospitality. www.seaisland.com @sea_island

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PHOTO BY CARLOS A. PINTO

Pearl Litwin welcomed the Dolce team to her lovely home for a relaxed visit – and personal viewing of her art collection

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ARTIST PROFILE

WHO IS THE ARTIST?

WHY, IT’S A LITWIN, OF COURSE

Pearl Litwin is as gracious as she is charming, welcoming the Dolce team into her lovely home on a rainy summer afternoon, where we gathered to interview her and take some photos. With five one-woman shows under her belt, she is an artist and an avid art collector, a philanthropist and a person who loves her family and friends dearly. We wanted to talk about her, but for Pearl, it’s all about the art WRITTEN BY DONNA PARIS

I

t’s important to foster a child’s passion.

Let’s say she likes art, for example. If she’s encouraged, she may develop a love of the craft that may someday allow her to realize her infinite potential, to live her dream. That’s exactly what happened with Pearl Litwin, who grew up to be a respected artist, a sophisticated collector and a philanthropist with a beautiful spirit. “I’ve always taken art lessons my whole life,” she says. “But I never really thought in terms of any kind of career — it didn’t even occur to me.”

Truly an artist in every sense of the word, Pearl saw a beautiful piece she wanted to buy at an art gallery in Toronto’s Yorkville neighbourhood when she was just married, at 19 years old. She took her husband, Louis, to see it. “It was the most wonderful gallery, and I was so excited about it,” she says. “I took my husband to see it and I told him, ‘I really want this.’” He asked her if she was crazy, adding that they didn’t even have a washing machine. So they didn’t buy it. “That was a lesson for me; I never asked him again,” she laughs. “But he trusted me,” she says simply.

As for her own artistic career, Pearl eventually turned to sculpting and grew to love this art form

“I WAS VERY FORTUNATE, [AND] YOU HAVE TO HAVE THE RIGHT GALLERY — THE GALLERY CAN MAKE YOU OR BREAK YOU”

most of all. In fact, she says she has designer Brian Gluckstein to thank for kicking it off. Gluckstein was doing some work for Pearl at her home and noticed a sculpture in her library. He asked who the artist was. Well, she told him, it was none other than herself. He wanted to buy it. Pearl ignored him. But about a month later, she ran into him again at a party, and he still wanted to buy it. A sale was made, and Gluckstein prominently displayed his new acquisition on his dining room table. Time went by, and Gluckstein hosted a charitable event at his home. “There were a lot of people there, and they saw the sculpture,” says Pearl. “They asked the name of the artist. And he said, ‘It’s a Litwin,’” she laughs.

“That was really the beginning of my art career, and I enjoyed it very much,” says Pearl. In fact, she has enjoyed four one-woman shows at Gallery One in Yorkville. “I was very fortunate, [and] you have to have the right gallery — the gallery can make you or break you,” says Pearl. Now, she’s represented by Abbozzo Gallery, where she held a solo show in 2015.

“While visiting Pearl Litwin’s home to discuss her upcoming solo exhibit at the Abbozzo

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From top to bottom: Woman, 2014, bronze, 31x17x10 inches; Butterfly, 2015, bronze and mixed media, 34x34x6 inches; Tree, 2014, bronze, 38x21x10 inches

Gallery, the first thing that caught my attention was the beautiful sculpture of horses displayed on her dining room table,” wrote Ineke Zigrossi, director and founder of Abbozzo Gallery. “I am confident that you will find in Pearl Litwin’s new series of work, a sculpture that will be a unique and essential addition to your collection.”

It’s no secret that the art world has changed.

“Art is very different today,” says Pearl. “In the ’50s and ’60s, it was a very interesting time to collect art because the time was one of innovation and creativity: the art scene at that time was changing, and artists were experimenting.” The sizes of canvases were getting bigger, artists were deliberately splashing paint onto canvases and there were even printed words on canvas sometimes, she adds. “It was just a whole new world, and it could blow your mind,” she says, her eyes lighting up. “We just accept everything today, but it wasn’t like that in those days. It was an exciting world — and it was wonderful to be part of that.” And she reminds us how important it is to keep an open mind, “because there was a time when photography wasn’t even accepted as art, and now it’s an art form.”

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF PEARL LITWIN

“IF I HAD A WISH, I WOULD WISH THAT MY CHILDREN HAVE AS GOOD A LIFE AS I HAVE HAD”

One of Pearl’s favourite artists is Helen Frankenthaler. Although Frankenthaler worked in an environment dominated by men, she was able to carve out respect, with her work speaking for itself. “I have a number of Frankenthalers,” says Pearl. “And when I bought her work, I never thought of this, but in those days, there was a ‘canvas ceiling.’ And it was very difficult for women to be accepted on par with male artists.”

Gratefully, says Pearl, she herself never had an issue with that, never found that to be a challenge.

As generous as she is kind, Pearl is a philanthropist, as was her husband. And that, too, is bred in the bone. Before they were married, Louis worked at his father’s paint store, St. Clair Paint and Wallpaper on (where else?) St. Clair Avenue West in Toronto. When he married Pearl, he went to work for her father, who owned a chain of small general stores. Then, when Louis’s father died, he rejoined the family’s business, and using the smarts he gained from working for his fatherin-law, he opened up another store in partnership with Sid Gladstone, his brother-in-law. The expansion really took off when they opened up a store in Yorkdale Shopping Centre, turning it from just a paint store into a successful homedecorating store. Eventually operating all over Canada, they opened 440 outlets, with several paint and wallpaper stores in the United States and a wallpaper factory in Lancashire, England.

Louis knew how important it was to give back, volunteering his time and financially supporting organizations important to both of them. “My husband was on the board of [Toronto’s] Mount Sinai Hospital,” says Pearl. “But I remember this, going back a lot of years, when I was only a child, when my father and his brother donated a wing to the first Mount Sinai Hospital, when the original site was in Yorkville,” she says. Pearl has done a lot of community work herself, taking on roles such as vice-president of the National Council of Jewish Women of Canada and vice-president of the Canadian Opera Company. Most recently, she opened her doors for the Yogen Früz Brain Project to raise funds for brain health, as well as research on dementia and aging at Baycrest. Guests were able to tour the private art collections at the Four Seasons Hotel, and Pearl was happy to be one of the hosts.

Recently, Pearl’s life has changed. After being married for 67 years, her husband passed away last year. She’s learned to adjust to life without him with the help of family and friends. “I’m very fortunate. I think, first of all, I must say this: I have good children — three kids, five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren,” she says. “And I have good friends — that certainly helps,” she adds.

And if she had a wish? “If I had a wish, I would wish that my children have as good a life as I have had,” she says. “Because I have a very good life. I had a wonderful husband and a long marriage, and I have wonderful children.”

DRINK

BUBBLING OVER WITH

EXPERTISE AND FINELY DISTILLED SPIRITS Vintners since 1635, the Bottega family are singular and passionate distillers of distinctive sparkling wines and spirits

PHOTO BY CARLOS A. PINTO

WRITTEN BY CECE M. SCOTT

Sandro Bottega, owner and managing director

VISIT WWW.DOLCEMAG.COM TO WATCH BEHIND-THE-SCENES FOOTAGE OF SANDRO BOTTEGA

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intners since 1635, Bottega’s family ancestors cultivated vines as tenant farmers. Andrea Bottega, the forefather of this now burgeoning viticulture of grappa and liqueurs, cultivated vines in the hills near Molinetto della Croda in Refrontolo.

Fast-forward four centuries, and Bottega wines and liqueurs, which have won multiple gold and silver awards — in fact, the company has received over 280 prizes and awards — can be found in 132 countries, as well as in high-end duty-free shops and airlines. The distinctive Bottega Gold Prosecco packaging, with its metallic bottle, is said to be a foreshadowing of what waits within. Certainly, consumers are quick to recognize and appreciate both the Bottega brand and the distinctive quality of wine produced by the company.

The distinctive processes of Bottega’s distillation protocols and the continued delivery of excellent products, which now include grappa, wine, gin, vodka, creams and liqueurs, continue to position Bottega as a high-end luxury distiller of fine wines and spirits.

Q. Bottega’s spirits have a history that dates back to the 16th century. How important is that history when it comes to the knowledge and craft of distilling?

A. Bottega is a three-generational family who are committed to wine and grappa making. My grandfather, Domenico Bottega, was a passionate wine broker who had a deep knowledge of wine and grappa. My father, Aldo, was the director of a renowned local distillery from the early 1950s. He developed some innovative technical intuitions, the first of which was the production of single-varietal grappa. He founded the distillery Distilleria Bottega, located in Pianzano di Godega (Treviso), in 1977.

But the Italian distillation tradition is much older: the origin of grappa dates back to over a thousand years ago, when the alchemists of the “Scuola Salernitana” (School of Salerno) codified the rules of alcohol concentration through distillation, around the year 1000. In the 16th century, the physician and botanist Pierandrea Mattioli studied the alcohol maceration of medicinal herbs, and developed a strong and restorative liquor from the residues of grape pressing: “l’acqua di vita” (“the water of life”). In 1618, the “Scola of the Aqua di Vita” or “Accademia degli Acquavitai” was founded in Venice: a trade corporation which trained the “Mastri Acquavitai” (master distillers) and helped spread the knowledge of this distillate in the main European capitals. In the 19th century distillation techniques and grappa were perfected and in 1989 the name “grappa” was recognized by the European Union. Thanks to these experiences, Italian distillers have reached the highest level of distillation techniques over the past centuries — indeed, nowadays most of the oenological

1 3

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1. Bottega’s head office, located in Bibano, Treviso, 45 km north of Venice 2. Bottega Gold Prosecco makes life sparkle 3. Barbara, Sandro and Stefano Bottega toast their family’s success 4. Bottega Rose Gold Pinot Nero delivers a sparkling rosecoloured experience

machinery and alembics in the world are made in Italy and designed by Italian engineers.

Q. Andrea, originally a tenant farmer, is considered the forefather of Bottega, cultivating the vine from the mid-1630s.

What do you think Andrea’s thoughts would be around the scope of Bottega today?

A. I believe Andrea would be proud of how his passion has been actualized through the centuries.

He would certainly be proud of the product quality, the environmental awareness and the global diffusion of the brand. But most of all, he

4

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“I FEEL A STRONG BOND WITH MY GRANDFATHER’S ADVENTUROUS SPIRIT”

would be proud of the respect that his products have garnered.

Q. Are there inherent traditions and rituals that began with Domenico in the 1920s that are still honoured today within the company’s mission and philosophy?

A. I feel a strong bond with my grandfather’s adventurous spirit. At the beginning of the past century, he toured Europe selling wine and grappa in his horse-drawn carts or by taking the train.

Q. What makes Bottega’s distillation process different from other products?

And how does that affect the aromatic quality, flavour and body?

A. Our grappa has distinctive elements: • The pomace: our grappa is obtained from carefully selected monovarietal or noble grapes, fermented at a low temperature and controlled acidity. They represent flavours and aromas of a specific grape, hence the distillate is characterized by pronounced typicality.

The brand, Alexander, was among the first to produce monovarietal grappa, offering a range of grappas from over 20 different grapes.

• Triple distillation: - Elimination of methanol and higher alcohols - Mixed distillation system (continuous and discontinuous) • Bain-marie distillation: we use a specially designed copper still that has an internal chamber immersed in boiling water. The pomace warms up slowly and evenly, and never gets in direct contact with a flame: the heat is applied indirectly, avoiding the possible burning of essential oils which can develop unpleasant bitter flavours.

• Vacuum distillation: a method of distillation performed under reduced pressure that decreases the boiling point of compounds and allows the molecules of the alcoholic steam to evaporate at a lower temperature, preserving the natural aromas of the grape.

• It has a lower alcoholic strength: while the

standard is 40 per cent, our average proof of grappa is 38 per cent.

• It uses certified water from the Alps.

• It is double filtered at -20 C. Q. In 1992, Bottega introduced Il Vino dei Poeti Prosecco Spumante to its product collection, effectively adding a winery to its distillery. What did this mean for the company?

A. We started producing Prosecco in 1987, followed by the launch of “Il Vino dei Poeti” a few years later. Adding this new brand, characterized by a higher rotation on shelves, was a true paradigm shift and allowed us to acknowledge more deeply the productive processes of the grape’s transformation, its quality-related secrets.

We strengthened our relationship with the farmers, who became suppliers of the quality grapes. We enhanced our customer-centric relationships, brand awareness and perception around being “Prosecco experts.” Sparkling wines represent approximately 65 per cent of our turnover.

We own 2 per cent of the world’s Prosecco market share.

Q. Who are Bottega’s main demographics?

A. Our target is the sophisticated expert, 25 to 55 years old, with a heavy female skew. Millennials are also becoming a significant target demographic.

Q. Which Bottega offerings are the No. 1 choices for consumers?

A. In Canada, the most appreciated products are: • “Il Vino dei Poeti” Prosecco DOC Brut, which is the No. 1 prosecco in Ontario • “Il Vino dei Poeti” Rosé Venezia DOC, which is No. 1 in the “sparkling rosé” category • For our liqueurs, Limoncino, Pistacchio and gin are the most successful • Bottega Gold is among the fastest-growing products and is one of the most recognizable and appreciated wines by Canadian consumers Q. What would you like people to know about Bottega?

A. The quality of the product (Italian, natural, genuine, traditional taste), the design (being an expression of the excellent esthetic character of being made in Italy) and Bottega’s social responsibility toward the environment and the community.

Q. What is next for Bottega?

A. We want to be more present in the Canadian duty-free sector. We are also targeting nightclubs and the fashion industry. We invested a lot in R&D and will soon be launching our latest creations: pomegranate liqueur and ginger liqueur. www.bottegaspa.com @bottegagold

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A DV E R TO R I A L

Pureplaza’s trademark is to invest in the highest quality materials and finishes throughout its projects as standard features. At its Presentation Centre, these finishes are all available to view and feel, so prospective homeowners can experience them prior to purchasing

PUREPLAZA:

THE PURITY OF EXPERIENCE, QUALITY AND SUCCESS IN REAL ESTATE SINCE 1982

I

n one of the most competitive and hottest real estate development markets in the world, to be named “New Home Builder of the Year” is a significant achievement. That is how Pureplaza was recognized in 2018, continuing a close to 40-year tradition of excellence for one of the Greater Toronto Area’s most respected developers and builders.

“The customer is always right,” says Scott McLellan, Plaza’s senior vice-president of operations. “And the Tarion New Home Builder of the Year award is voted upon by purchasers, and we were extremely pleased to win in the high-rise category, as we always listen to our purchasers.”

McLellan knows a thing or two about competition.

Born and raised in Toronto, he was a gifted hockey player in his youth and was drafted and played briefly in the National Hockey League with the Boston Bruins. He entered the real estate industry in 1989, just as a real estate boom was ending.

McLellan came to Plaza 11 years ago when the developer was doing smaller, six- or seven-storey projects every 18 months or so, and has seen the

company grow to one of the larger developers in the GTA during his tenure. Much of that success is due to the company’s acknowledged acumen regarding locations poised for growth, and its outstanding reputation with its customers.

“Plaza had picked up some very good development sites during the downturn and we have a specific strategy in our site selection,” says McLellan. “We thought the ‘Manhattan-ization’ of Toronto would be good for us and something we could align ourselves with. We always look for good locations with nearby transit, or schools and universities, and a good down-market for those who may be downsizing but wish to stay in the same neighbourhood.”

The Met at Jane Street and Highway 7 is a prime example. Centred within the Vaughan Metropolitan Centre, Plaza saw an opportunity, as it was just two subway stops from York University. The company has developed many well-known residential condominiums, including Plaza Midtown at Yonge and Eglinton, No. 1 Yorkville, 50 at Wellesley Station, Encore in the Theatre District and developments in

Mississauga, Ont., and Liberty Village.

“Liberty Village is a prime example of location, as when we acquired the site it was not the most desirable residential market, but we saw the potential,” says McLellan. “We sold that dream, and Liberty Village became a city within a city, as restaurants, parks and dog-walkers became a reality.”

The company is known for the quality it invests into each new project right from the start, down to the materials and finishes. “Zero deficiencies in any pre-delivery inspection is our goal, and the quality of our materials is the best,” says McLellan. “Our construction and customer care teams are intimately involved before the purchaser even sees the suite.

Zero is our benchmark.”

Plaza is always innovating and was among the first GTA builders to include finishes such as granite counters and floors, undermount sinks and porcelain tile. “We listen to our purchasers to develop innovations and ask what they want. And the buying populace always knows what they want,” says McLellan.

McLellan feels that as long as new Canadians continue to move into the GTA, the market will remain strong. The company has new projects in the pipeline at 170 Spadina, 400 King West, Yonge and Wellesley, and Yonge and Finch, which should launch in the next two years, and it is currently looking at four other sites.

Plaza’s quality and success built up over many decades are a testament to its expertise, care and commitment to its business, which will continue to be the foundation of that success for years to come. www.pureplaza.com @pureplazacorp

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N PE O W O N

Brilliantly Bloor Steps away from Jane Station, the Bijou dazzles brilliantly above the charming shops of Bloor West Village, perfectly embodying the intersection of sleek design and old world opulence.

With large suites, stunning interiors, private terraces, and an array of exceptional amenities to elevate your day-to-day, at the Bijou, there truly is no place like home.

Presentation centre now open at 2450 Bloor Street West.

416.862.0888 | bijou@plazacorp.com

PUREPLAZA.COM Rendering is an artist’s impression. Certain design elements are subject to change without notice. All rights reserved. E.&O.E. September 2019.

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MUSIC

Bruce Cockburn — the ultimate storyteller

FROM A YORKVILLE HIPPIE TO AN OFFICER OF THE ORDER OF CANADA

Musician Bruce Cockburn has been a singer and songwriter of poetic lyrics and bon mots for more than five decades

T

here are times when being a part of history, albeit a tumultuously famous (some might even say infamous) one, becomes a badge of honour, the tipping point from which many other seismic life events are launched. Toronto’s Yorkville scene in the midto-late 1960s and early 1970s was such a place.

Although today’s well-heeled visitors to the area might not be able to fathom it, Yorkville in those earlier days was comparable, on a smaller scale, to New York’s bumping Greenwich Village. The hub of a creative, nonconformist, bohemian, longhaired subculture, Yorkville’s hippie scene was entrenched in a tie-dye plethora of folk, rock and jazz music, suede and leather-fringed jackets, a surfeit of free love and, oh yes, a lot of marijuana smoking, which five decades later would become legal — a fact that no one would have imagined at the time.

One of Yorkville’s greatest contributions to music aficionados was the exceptional quality of musicians who got their start in the 40-plus coffee houses and bars that dotted the streets of the Yorkville scene, which encompassed Hazelton Avenue, Cumberland Street, Avenue Road and Bay Street. The famed Penny Farthing coffee house attracted big-name talent such as James Taylor, and Simon & Garfunkel. And the renowned Riverboat Coffee House, where stars such as Joni Mitchell, Gordon Lightfoot and Neil Young played, is also where Ottawa native Bruce Cockburn — folk singer, songwriter, author and multiple Juno awardee — often played. On the big stage, the singer shared a concert bill with a who’s-who of musical proficiency, including The Jimi Hendrix Experience and Cream. With his ever-present round-rimmed spectacles, and his long, dark hair curling out from underneath a fedora trimmed with leather strips, Cockburn’s

gentle, commanding voice and poetic lyrics captivated audiences. They knew all the words to his wildly popular, songs-for-the-decades hits, such as “Wondering Where the Lions Are” (1979), “Rumours of Glory” (1980), “The Trouble with Normal” (1983), “If I Had a Rocket Launcher” (1984), “Lovers in a Dangerous Time” (1984) and “Call It Democracy” (1986), to name just a few.

A man whose words shone like beacons in his lyrics, Cockburn’s ability to interact with others throughout his younger years was one that was fraught with angst and rage. “I was wrapped up in myself — not in a narcissistic way, but in terms of mistrust of the world. I was not open to other people,” Cockburn says. “A lot of my adult life has been a big learning curve in terms of empathizing and loving people. In the process of navigating through life, I have learned things — sometimes quickly, and sometimes as an uneven trickle.

Every time there has been a discovery, there has

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PHOTO BY CARLOS A. PINTO

WRITTEN BY CECE M. SCOTT

likely been a song. We all have a lot in common throughout our lives, including scars. None of us gets out of our childhood/youth without some damage. The scars unite us; if we find those scars in a person and are open to the energy they offer from that place, then it is a binding agent. We are all in this together.”

After spending some time in Paris performing as a street musician, Cockburn attended Boston’s esteemed Berklee College of Music, where he spent a few semesters before quitting. “I was learning things at Berklee, but I had this strong feeling, a prompting that I needed to be elsewhere, do something else, which I’m still doing. Whatever predisposed me to listen to those promptings, it all worked out pretty well.”

Ironically, many decades later, Cockburn was awarded an honorary doctorate of music from Berklee. (One of many he has been awarded.)

“I didn’t have to do the work and I got my degree,” he laughs. Cockburn’s awards are many: he is an inductee into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame (2001); recipient of the Allan Slaight Humanitarian Spirit Award (2014); an inductee into the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame (2017); and the 2017 recipient of the Folk Alliance International People’s Voice Award. All of these awards are certainly balms that boosted the confidence of Cockburn, who, throughout his 20s and 30s, felt like a stranger in a strange land. “It certainly softens the effect of feeling like a loner,” he says. “But the feeling of affection and embrace that comes from the audience is really what fills me.”

For an extensive part of his career, Cockburn was known as much for his sense of rage as he was for his mastery of music. He credits acquiring a sense of perspective on that rage as a part of growing up. “A lot of what I have written comes from that place [of rage],” he says. “When I wrote ‘If I Had a Rocket Launcher,’ I didn’t feel like I was venting. I know the song was the cause of head scratching for some people, but for me it was an expression of pain and outrage at what I felt — what I empathized with — which was the plight of the Guatemalan refugees. I was trying to paint an emotional picture of what I felt — it came from a deep place. How it was perceived by people who weren’t familiar with the situation was really an expression of their rage. The radio success of that song was a big surprise to me.”

Like many of his activist peers in the ’70s and ’80s, Cockburn used his music as a commentary on political events that were concerning to him.

He does not consider himself an activist per se (he considers himself more in the domain of reactivism than activism), but his political voice and opinions have definitely resonated in an impactful way on a wide range of issues over the years, including native rights — particularly the Haida peoples’ struggles around land claims in British Columbia — as well as human rights atrocities

“EVERY TIME I HEAR THAT MUSIC I AM TRANSPORTED TO SOME WINDSWEPT HEADLAND, SIPPING WHISKY OUT OF A SEASHELL”

in third-world countries, third-world debt and the ecological decline of the environment. His politicking has taken him to Guatemala, Mali, Mozambique, Cambodia, Vietnam and Nepal, to name a few. And while some of his politically active counterparts, such as Buffy Sainte-Marie, felt that their careers were impacted by their activism (Sainte-Marie discovered that the FBI had a file on her in the 1980s), Cockburn feels his outspokenness did not affect him. “I was inducted into the Order of Canada (1983), and then promoted to Officer of the Order of Canada (2003), so I don’t think that suggests any kind of repression,” he says. “I have allowed my mouthing off to be used for people who are truly activists, and I feel good about being allowed to be used that way, if the cause is good.”

The most active cause Cockburn is currently involved in is the raising of his daughter, Iona, who is seven. “I have limited time to be in her life and I want to make the most of it,” the singer says. Cockburn, 74, married his current wife, Mary Josephine (M.J.), an attorney, in 2014. “A lot of the kids think I am Iona’s grandfather,” Cockburn says, with not a twinge of awkwardness in his voice. A proud father, Cockburn describes Iona, who is bilingual, as sharp, independent and a constant source of amazing stuff. “She learns songs really fast and knows all of the lyrics to my songs; her favourite is ‘Call It Democracy,’ although I am not sure why.”

Jenny, now 43, is Cockburn’s daughter with his first wife, Kitty Macaulay. “When I was a parent in my 30s, I don’t think I was good at it. I was self-involved and focused on my art. But it all came out OK. Jenny has her PhD and teaches at a college in Montreal.”

Crowing Ignites, which is to be released in September, is Cockburn’s newest album. It was produced by Cockburn’s long-time friend and collaborator, guitarist and songwriter Colin Linden, whom the singer has known since he was 14. A fully instrumental album, Crowing Ignites (a literal translation of the Latin motto Accendit Cantu) embraces Cockburn’s Scottish heritage, one with which he feels a deep kinship.

“As a Scottish Canadian, I feel like I am part of a continuous line, one that runs through from earlier times, and will hopefully continue. Somewhere, I am a little bead on that chain,” Cockburn says.

This newest album of Cockburn’s embodies a journey of musical experiences, including Tibetan cymbals, chimes and singing bowls — and, of course, the classical bagpipe music of Scotland, featuring a style of bagpipe musical effects called pibroch. “Every time I hear that music I am transported to some windswept headland, sipping whisky out of a seashell,” Cockburn says with a smile. “The effect is hypnotic and meditative — I get a rush when I hear it.”

Cockburn’s philosophy on life centres on taking what understandings and glimpses of life he experiences and sharing them through his songs. “I am the person I am because of all the stuff that I have been exposed to, which has resulted from the choices I have made, and the choices that I have been handed. I have always tried to be available to the next thing,” he says.

The anger and sense of rage that have been a lifelong and intrinsic part of Cockburn’s personality — the undercurrent that drove many of his lyrics, as well as his outspoken championship of many causes — seem to have been pinpricked, dissipating the pent-up helium of wrath. In its stead, there is an increased aura of thoughtful insight, a wry sense of humour and a relaxed sense of openness. In fact, I noticed in Cockburn a significant change from the 2016 interview I did with him (albeit over the phone).

He feels warmer, more loquacious and willing to share an easy laugh.

“Behind the pain-fear etched on the faces, something is shining, like gold but better.”

Certainly, these celebrated lyrics to “Rumours of Glory,” which Cockburn penned and sang with such elegance in 1980, seem to have come full circle, becoming a prescient way of life for the singer — whom author Nicholas Jennings called “a troubadour for the common man.” But says Cockburn with a laugh: “I really don’t know what that means.” www.brucecockburn.com

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DESIGN HIGHLIGHTS

DOLCE & NOTEWORTHY

PHOTO BY JASON HARTOG

WRITTEN BY RICK MULLER

Canadian designer Troy Smith makes his creative mark Using furniture as a medium to express his creativity, Canadian designer Troy Smith is garnering international attention from notable galleries for his extraordinary art and eclectic collection of tables, chairs and sofas of exceptional beauty and built with meticulous care and craftsmanship.

Based in Toronto and Miami, Smith’s furniture has been referred to as avant-garde, visionary and classic, and his international travels are his inspiration to experience emerging trends. These influences are apparent in Smith’s Rebar Collection, as well as his other unique collections and abstract acrylic paintings. www.troysmithdesigns.com

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PHOTO BY OLIVIER SAILLANT

Paris pays tribute to Karl Lagerfeld In an evening and setting as grand as the talents of the man himself, the Houses of Chanel, Fendi (LVMH) and Karl Lagerfeld gathered this past June at the Grand Palais in Paris to pay tribute to the late Karl Lagerfeld at a celebration designed, directed and staged by Robert Carsen.

The 2,500 guests were immersed in a spectacular exhibition of 56 giant enlargements of Lagerfeld portraits taken throughout his life, a tapestry of videos, music from Pharrell Williams, and testimonials by such Lagerfeld friends as actresses Helen Mirren, Tilda Swinton, Fanny Ardant and Cara Delevingne. All in attendance agreed even the great man himself would have been impressed. www.karl.com

Ford and Multimatic have revealed the next evolution in supercars with the introduction of the Ford GT Mk II, a limited-edition, trackonly race car with a 700-horsepower engine. Limited to just 45 vehicles being built in Markham, Ont., the Ford GT Mk II will have a starting MSRP of $1.2 million, and will join the GT race car, which won the 2016 24 Hours of Le Mans, and the Ford GT supercar.

With a 3.5-Litre EcoBoost engine, race-proven aerodynamics and competition-oriented handling, the GT Mk II has been co-developed by Ford Performance and Multimatic based on competitive learnings from Ford’s successful worldwide racing campaigns. The supercar features enhancements for added downforce, further weight savings and chassis updates for better handling and increased engine power.

The car begins its production process at the main Ford GT plant before being transferred to a specialist facility at Multimatic Motorsports where it is crafted into the Ford GT Mk II. www.ford.com

PHOTO BY DREW GIBSON

Ford track-only limited-edition GT Mk II takes supercars to the next level

PHOTO COURTESY OF ALICE + OLIVIA

Alice + Olivia spring 2020 fashion presentation One of the fashion world’s most highly anticipated events is the Alice + Olivia presentation held every September in New York City.

The brainchild of designer Stacey Bendet, the presentation long ago shed the traditional catwalk approach and the Alice + Olivia spring 2020 fashion presentation featured a series of nine “vignettes” – a kaleidoscope of colourful, social-media-ready interactive sets that had guests, designers and celebrities buzzing.

“When the colours are right in a space you exhale and tune into your own interior,” says Bendet on the eye-catching extravaganza. “I dream in colour and these rooms are fashion dreams come to life.”

Launched in 2002 by Bendet, Alice + Olivia has a global following for its unique combination of style, sophistication and whimsy, which is a strong reflection of the personality of its founder. Its colourful and bold clothing and accessories can be found in more than 800 department and specialty stores worldwide and 20 stand-alone boutiques. www.aliceandolivia.com

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JEWELRY

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AUTUMN JEWELRY Looking for the ideal piece to add to your collection this fall?

Take a look at some of our favourites from the high-end, luxury designers below WRITTEN BY STEPHANIE CLARKE

1. Pomellato’s beautiful rose gold bracelet features pavé diamonds created with rose gold and brown, black and white diamonds. www.pomellato.com 2. This original design from Messika’s Glam’Azone collection comes in rose gold and features three tiers of gold and diamonds. www.maisonbirks.com 3. Piaget’s Sunlight pendant offers radiant sparkle with103 brilliant diamonds set into its rose gold design. int.piaget.com 4. Van Cleef & Arpels’ beautiful Sous son aile clip features a whimsical parrot with its chick and contains many stones, including rubies, sapphires and diamonds. www.vancleefarpels.com 5. For those looking for a bit of elegance in their arm cuffs, this piece from Elsa Peretti offers sensuous curves in 18-karat gold. www.tiffany.ca 6. Graff’s earrings feature loose and free loops, topped off by a beautifully cut pear-shaped diamond. www.graff.com

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A z d c g

ARCHITECTURE

The creativity and sense of whimsy of Faena properties are at once captivating, stimulating and intoxicating

ALAN FAENA:

THE PASSIONATE INSPIRATION FOR DYNAMIC URBAN TRANSFORMATION AND CREATIVITY

Faena District Miami Beach’s arts focus has created a cultural renaissance and vibrant community connections between North and South Beach

PHOTO COUTESY OF FAENA HOTEL

WRITTEN BY RICK MULLER

I

n today’s millisecond and megabyte world, the term “Renaissance man” may seem slightly outdated. But as we experience the game-changing of the fourth Industrial Revolution, it just might now be a descriptive more valued than ever.

Traits of a Renaissance man include quality, passion, knowledge, creativity, vision, philosophy, dreams, curiosity and perhaps that seemingly rarest of personal traits, the magic of one-on-one personal connection that comes from human interactions instead of screen time.

Just such a man is Alan Faena. He is the creative Argentine hotelier and real estate developer who has constructed cultural incubators and forwardthinking urban districts in his native Buenos Aires, Argentina, as well as Miami Beach, while building his global Faena Group brand that touches architecture, design and art. His fascinating life story is revealed in his memoir released this year, Alan Faena: Alchemy & Creative Collaboration, published by Rizzoli International Publications.

Perhaps how you impact the world is somewhat preordained by when you experience it, and Faena

arrived at a seminal moment of the 20th century.

He was born in Buenos Aires on November 20, 1963. It was a Wednesday. Just 48 hours later, President John F. Kennedy was assassinated in Dallas, and the world changed in the blink of an eye.

By some almost mystic quirk of fate, Faena happened to be born during the opening act of the 1960s, one of the most turbulent decades of the last 100 years. A decade which brought us the cultural influence of The Beatles, the art of Andy Warhol and an exploding world of exploration,

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Faena’s signature colour is white, which he calls a powerful, holy, clean canvas that reflects and doesn’t consume

PHOTO BY CHRISTOPHER STURMAN

“THE ENTIRE FAENA DISTRICT IS A PERFECT BALANCE BETWEEN ART, ARCHITECTURE, NATURE AND TECHNOLOGY, CONCEIVED TO ENHANCE PEOPLE’S LIVES”

technology, design, fashion, architecture and new thinking, affecting everyone living at the time and still shaping the world we live in today. Whether we realize it or not, we are all the product of our times, and as President Kennedy himself once said of the 1960s, “The torch has been passed to a new generation.”

In recalling his family history in his new book, Faena writes: “My grandparents immigrated to Argentina from Syria in the 1910s. They were Sephardic Jews who worked in the textile industry and who lived in Damascus. The name ‘Faena’ is a Spanish word which means ‘job’ or ‘task’ — and I suppose my family has always had that touch of magic in realizing their dreams. We kept the last name and rightfully so: work has always been a core value to my family.”

Faena says his mother tells the story that even as a small boy, he was always careful about his appearance, leading to his nickname among neighbours as “the Little Prince.” His interest in clothes led him to follow the family footsteps into the textile industry, where, in keeping with the hard work ethic of the Faenas, he founded

the fashion label Via Vai (which loosely translated means “coming and going, to bustle”) when he was just 19 years of age.

There, Faena’s passion for colours could erupt, which continues to this day as a signature trademark of Faena Group hotels, urban meeting places, residences and retail establishments. He launched his first fashion brand with 50 coloured shirts he funded himself, and the brand expanded to include ready-to-wear collections and a denim line, and Faena prospered as a fashion designer for more than 10 years.

While his colours were always fashion-forward, it was white that attracted him. “White does draw me: it’s powerful, holy, a clean canvas,” writes Faena. “It’s my signature and as an adult, I’ve found that white has taken on different symbolic meanings for me. White is composed of all the colours totaled together. White is clarity, intensity, innocence. White is peace. White reflects and doesn’t consume. White is the white page, the tabula rasa, the new beginning.”

As much as fashion was an interest to young Faena, so was music. Growing up, he listened

to the giants of the day during the ’60s and ’70s, always entertaining his friends in his bedroom. “I’m sure every kid feels their bedroom is a special place, but my childhood bedroom really was,” writes Faena. “I was always inviting friends back home with me to entertain in my room. I took special care to make my bedroom a magical zone.”

Design, colours, music, communal gathering places and hospitality. Ever so slowly, the pieces of the puzzle shaping this Renaissance man begin to come into view.

“My parents raised me with a lot of love and freedom, which allowed me to develop the ability to create and explore without limits or restrictions,” Faena writes in his memoir. “I knew how to be alone — to carve my own identity in my own time and place — and early on I found that connection to art as a portal to another world.”

Faena’s interest in art would manifest itself many years later in his hometown of Buenos Aires, once he transitioned and began a career in real estate development. He partnered with Len Blavatnik, Philippe Starck and world-renowned Foster + Partners to redevelop abandoned docklands in the Puerto Madero neighbourhood of Buenos Aires, with the acclaimed Faena Hotel a central part of the urban transformation. Faena calls this his “Faena Universe,” proudly saying “it conveys the identity of the old, romantic Buenos Aires of yore, its Belle Epoque. We used the past to build the future.”

The Faena District, as it came to be known, is a $200-million development and is now estimated to be the most valuable real estate in the city.

The Faena Arts Center, a converted flour mill opened in 2011, is integral to the entire district and displays the works of local and international artists, supplying those artists with the portal

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1. Faena Miami Beach is an oasis of luxury living within an urban setting 2. Faena Theatre is a spectacular 150-seat cabaret offering live musical performances, as well as Faena’s original production Samsara Cabaret 3. Its clientele of discerning world travellers expect and receive the most attentive service 4. A Faena trademark throughout its public spaces is a dramatic signature design piece

PHOTO BY TODD EBERLE

PHOTO COURTESY OF FAENA HOTEL

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PHOTO BY TODD EBERLE

PHOTO COURTESY OF FAENA HOTEL

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to the outside world Faena himself found in his connection to art.

Faena is always quick to modestly say his collaborations with others, including friends Blavatnik and Starck, along with architect Rem Koolhaas, are a main reason for his success. “Each of my collaborations are bound by intellectual love and a deep respect for the talents of the other,” he writes. “My relationship with my collaborators has always been one of friendship first. We begin and end as friends. I think of my collaborations as a tango dance. It takes two to make an art form.”

Through this trust and mutual respect and driven by his vision and innate sense of where his artistry and creativity would succeed, Faena took his most ambitious leap in an empire full of them by expanding into Miami Beach, with construction of the Miami Beach Faena District beginning in 2013.

This four-block, $1-billion, mid-beach waterfront

“I DO LIKE TO THINK THAT IN 100 YEARS PEOPLE WILL BE ABLE TO SEE MY CREATIONS”

development on Collins Avenue brought Faena’s sense of whimsy and power of experience in a captivating and intoxicating manner to one of the world’s hottest real estate markets.

The anchor of the district was the neglected Saxony Hotel, an art deco masterpiece favoured decades earlier by Frank, Sammy, Dean, Marilyn, Bogart and the like. When Faena first saw it, even without interior walls and surrounded by empty lots, his curiosity was piqued. “Where people saw failure, I saw tremendous possibility,” recalls Faena.

“Where people see darkness, I see the chance to bring light, and these blocks of prime real estate on a stunning stretch of beach I saw as plenty of room to create a new, experimental cultural district.”

The Saxony was completely restored as the Faena Hotel to go alongside the new Faena Miami Beach, a Forbes five-star luxury resort and the first independent hotel to achieve that rating in its first

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PHOTO BY TODD EBERLE

Faena Miami Beach’s interior design creates opulent environments of bespoke style and sophistication, while promoting lifestyles of social engagement

years. It was also voted as the No. 1 Miami hotel by readers of Condé Nast two years in a row.

The Faena District has completely reinvented this area of Miami Beach as a cultural incubator, showcasing the biggest names in entertainment, design, arts and community inclusiveness, including the landmark Faena Forum and featuring work ranging from arts to business and technology, as well as the Faena Theater. Recently added is the spectacular Faena Bazaar, a roller-coasteresque experiential bespoke retail experience that stimulates every nerve.

Faena’s original talent is to bring vision, creativity, pulse and vibe to urban areas previously devoid of these, by introducing his technicolour fantasies and a kaleidoscope of sensory wonders that provide magic, promise and possibilities, invigorating neighbourhoods for the greater community good.

He is new thinking and the product of his times, in exactly the right places. As The Beatles told us, “There’s nowhere you can be that isn’t where you were meant to be, it’s easy.”

“The entire Faena District is a stage choreographed in a succession of dreams,” explains Faena in his book. “It is a platform for the extraordinary, an incubator for talent, an engine that pushes the envelope forward. A perfect balance between art, architecture, nature and technology, conceived to enhance people’s lives.”

Modesty, a sense of perspective and reflection are also traits of the Renaissance man, and in his memoir Faena writes words that give an additional glimpse into a remarkable man, born into the tumult of the 1960s, then maturing to create a most fascinating and memorable career to date.

“I have not tried to conquer the world, but to ignite a part of it and share that light with

others,” he writes in the “Prologue” of his book.

“Everything I’ve done has started from the sparks of creativity and desire, walking from the darkness, transforming it into light. I can’t promise that what I’ve created will last forever — no person can. But I do like to think that in 100 years people will be able to see my creations. But for now, I surrender myself again to my faith, and the magic of the present.”

Faena has been a transformational influencer in the worlds of art, culture, design, architecture and urban renewal. It is safe to assume that in 100 years, when people see his creations in various corners around the globe and hear the name Alan Faena, they will want to know everything. www.faena.com @faena All Alan Faena quotes are excerpted from his memoir, Alan Faena: Alchemy & Creative Collaboration, published by Rizzoli International Publications, 2019.

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Lauren has relied on his innate fashion sensibility and boundless self-confidence to build one of the largest global clothing empires

THE

FATHER OF

FASHION WITH A DETERMINATION TO STAY TRUE TO HIS OWN VISION, RALPH LAUREN’S JOURNEY HAS LED HIM FROM SELLING TIES TO HEADING UP ONE OF THE MOST RECOGNIZABLE BRANDS IN THE WORLD WRITTEN BY JAKE TAYLOR

PHOTO BY PAMELA HANSON

F

ew men have ever had more influence on fashion than Ralph Lauren. While the world has seen many designers rise and fall according to market whims, the classic vision of Lauren has stood the test of time. He longed to create a look that captured something of the American Dream, and along the way his stylistic philosophy was embraced by the global marketplace.

His name and signature Polo line make up one of the most recognizable brands in the world, taking its rightful place alongside Apple, CocaCola, Amazon, et al. With an estimated net worth of more than US$7 billion, according to Forbes, Ralph Lauren is the third-richest designer

in the world, whose fortune is exceeded only by that of Giorgio Armani and Miuccia Prada. Not a bad achievement for a former tie salesman from the Bronx, N.Y., who relied on his innate fashion sensibility and boundless self-confidence in the process of building one of the largest global clothing empires. His success is even more striking in light of his own profound disdain for “fashion” and its inherently capricious nature.

“I don’t like fashion. I have nothing to do with it,” he says in a 2017 GQ magazine interview on the occasion of his namesake company’s 50th anniversary. “I just don’t care about it. I don’t care about what they call men’s fashion. I think it’s a poisonous voice. People feel like when they do a fashion show, they’re going to blow their socks off. They get lost in thinking that the papers, the

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“IT WASN’T ABOUT FASHION; IT WAS ABOUT WHAT I WANTED. AND THEN, ALL OF A SUDDEN, I REALIZED I WAS BUILDING A WORLD, TELLING A STORY ABOUT THE THINGS THAT I LOVED” 78 DOLCE MAGAZINE | www.dolcemag.com

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PHOTO BY PAMELA HANSON

Lauren always longed to create a look that captured something of the American Dream, and that stylistic philosophy has resonated around the globe

editors, the magazines are going to give them editorial and they’re fighting for editorial. ‘Look what I did this year!’”

“They’re forgetting about the consumer who wears clothes. They’re forgetting about what life’s about. They get themselves in a little world and then they can’t go any further. But if you look at my past 50 years, you’ll see that my work has never changed. The clothes have, but the principles haven’t. The spirit changes ... but the voice over the years is the same.”

During the course of his sovereign sway over Western society’s clothing habits, Lauren is perhaps most commonly identified with his so-called preppy look, the chic sportswear that evokes a gentrified, Anglo-American culture of cool. Evoking the kind of patrician splendour that first caught public attention thanks to the Kennedy clan and their Ivy League aura, Lauren developed an elegant yet laid-back esthetic, as heralded by his classic “Polo” shirt.

It is his way of selling the American Dream to a consumer anxious to be seen as part of a bright, prosperous elite that one would find sailing on weekends or playing tennis after work. Lauren has tapped into our fashion consciousness in the same way that Armani (men’s suits in the wake of American Gigolo), Givenchy (Audrey Hepburn) and Lagerfeld (women’s fashion as a whole) set trends in motion.

But unlike these other icons of design, Lauren thinks more in terms of a trimmed-down (pun unintended) clothing line that dispenses with frills and speaks to a no-nonsense stylistic impulse. His fashion mantra has never been about legislating to only one target group with only “one thing” in mind when it comes to design, but rather a way of reflecting his admiration for men who carry themselves with an iconoclastic, somewhat rugged swagger.

“I made clothes for the preppy, for the RRL guy, for the luxury sportswear guy,” he tells GQ. “Is it a dressing-up box for the American Dream?

I think it’s more about me and what I’ve tried to do,” explains Lauren.

“I always admired Frank Sinatra. He had ups and downs, but he didn’t give up his style. He had what might have been a tough life or character.

I don’t know his personality, but I believe in the ability to believe in what you’re doing and know what’s good for you. I’m not him, but I rooted for him when he was down and out. And I watched him come back. The guts and the stamina and some kind of integrity. Same with Marlon Brando.

We would all have loved to be Marlon Brando, right? So, in my work I’ve been trying to mirror various sensibilities. I didn’t have a master plan and I honestly did not plan this. It’s been instinct and gut and love and passion and honesty.”

Born in New York on Oct. 19, 1939, he grew up as Ralph Lifshitz, the son of Belarusian Jewish immigrants who fled Eastern Europe to escape the

approaching terror. Realizing that “Lauren” would be a far more marketable alter ego, he changed his name at age 19, just as he was setting out into the business world. In a recent interview with Jane Pauley on CBS’s Sunday Morning, he explains that “in the world I was growing up, the word ‘s***’ was a tough word. It was in my name. So, that name change was not about being Jewish or not Jewish or being something else.”

Trying to work his way up the ladder in the garment industry in the early ’60s, Lauren scored his first marketing/design triumph when he launched his brand of Polo ties. He decided to start his own business in spite of being told by his boss that, “Ralph, no one’s gonna wear them.

The world is not ready for Ralph Lauren.” Recalls Lauren: “He said it (disrespectfully), ‘Forget it, kid.

You’re not gonna do anything.’”

But Lauren was convinced that his distinctive Polo tie brand would find a niche. And it did. The tie collection was a massive success, and that gave him the financial means to launch a menswear line: “I made shirts to go with the ties. And then I made suits. And they were different, and they were high quality.”

Over the course of the next several decades, Ralph Lauren evolved into a self-styled clothing brand that quickly became part of the fashion landscape. Though his business would suffer the occasional market dip, he relied on his intuitive sense of the market to grow his American empire and expand into Europe and beyond. One of the keys to his success was his steadfast refusal to allow any big retailer to cannibalize his brand.

“I never did focus groups,” he tells Town & Country magazine. “I went and did the things I loved to do. It was instinctual, and very passionate.

When I started out, my goal was to express myself.

I designed these ties and then went around in my bomber jacket and jeans. Bloomingdale’s said they liked them, but they wanted me to make them narrower and put a Bloomingdale’s label in them, and I said I couldn’t do that. Six months later they came back to me and said, ‘OK, we’ll give you your own rack, and (your clothes) can carry your own label,’” says Lauren.

“And after that I started doing shirts and went on from there. It wasn’t about fashion; it was about what I wanted. And then, all of a sudden, I realized I was building a world, telling a story about the things that I loved.”

That kind of understated country club chic has held firm ever since. With its signature emblem of the polo pony and rider with raised mallet, first emblazoned on shirts in 1971, the Ralph Lauren Polo brand has become one of the most dominant looks in the history of fashion. In addition, Lauren has launched other concepts that reference other elements of American culture: the cowboy look of the Old West, Native American style, art deco/ Hollywood Golden Age and some ’50s jet-setting glamour. It’s all part of Lauren’s ability to inspire

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PHOTO BY BENJAMIN NORMAN/THE NEW YORK TIMES/REDUX

Lauren’s collection of classic cars is rumoured to be one of the most expensive ever assembled on Earth, containing some of the rarest examples of automotive engineering ever crafted by human hands

PHOTOS BY JASON SCHMIDT

“I DIDN’T HAVE A MASTER PLAN AND I HONESTLY DID NOT PLAN THIS. IT’S BEEN INSTINCT AND GUT AND LOVE AND PASSION AND HONESTY”

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Held at New York’s Bethesda Terrace, Ralph Lauren’s 50th anniversary celebration offered a memorable chance to look back on his legacy, alongside celebrity guests like Oprah Winfrey and Hillary Clinton

PHOTO BY LANDON NORDEMAN

consumers with a distinctive mythology that imparts class and cultivation.

Says Lauren: “I’ve said this for years — there are too many clothes, too many designers ... What’s the point? My thing was always about individuality, and about creating a world — because you don’t just wear clothes, you live a life, you have style, you project who you are,” adding, “When you put on something that you really like, you feel like you are that person or the person you want to be.”

In other words, Lauren’s fashion philosophy, although he would deny he has one, at least in the pure sense, is that one dresses the way one wants to project oneself as being. And rather than let the market dictate to him, he has consistently let his taste cultivate a loyal consumer following.

He adds: “I just had a feeling for what I wanted.

It’s the same as the clothes. It feels the same. Now, you’ve got to keep it going, you’ve got to keep the food good, you’ve got to keep the clientele happy, you’ve got to do the things that maintain a business and keep it going. You’ve got to service it; you’ve got to live with it; you’ve got to build a brand; you’ve got to get people in; you’ve got to get the right people that understand it. So, everything is a culture — building the culture and understanding the culture. But it’s through understanding and [the] joy of what you want to say, not because of the market.”

This year offered a memorable chance to look back on the Lauren legacy, with the 50th anniversary celebration of the brand taking place at one of New York’s most well-known landmarks — Bethesda Terrace in Central Park — in September. Attended by celebs and fashionistas, including Hillary Clinton, Oprah Winfrey, Kanye West and Calvin Klein, the moonlit show featured the typical balance of grit, grace and Americana that has formed the foundations of the brand’s style. Accompanied by an original RL50 collection and showcasing some of the supermodels who have worked as the face of the brand — from Carolyn Murphy to Gigi Hadid — the show also saw children take to the catwalk decked out in Lauren’s pieces, a testament to the brand’s bright future, as well as its enduring success.

“I wanted to create and share a runway experience that was deeply personal and a summation of the style I’ve always believed in: personal, authentic and forever, in a place so quintessentially New York and so special to me — Central Park,” Lauren writes in a statement about the universally acclaimed celebratory show.

The 50th anniversary show is not Lauren’s only milestone this year. Turning 80 in October, Lauren is known for never giving in to the kind of prima donna-ish posturing that most fashion greats display: no baby-powdered wigs and fans, no orgies in decadent palazzos or island retreats — or the temptation to indulge in ostentatious runway shows or affairs with supermodels.

His one true vice remains his passion for

classic cars. Concealed within an inconspicuous building in Westchester, N.Y., Lauren’s collection is rumoured to be one of the most expensive ever assembled on Earth, containing some of the rarest examples of automotive engineering ever crafted by human hands, worth at least $300 million. Revered antiques such as the 1929 Bentley 4.5-Litre “Blower,” which participated in the 24 Hours of Le Mans race in 1930, 1932 and 1933, and a 1955 Jaguar XKD Long-Nose, one of only 10 ever made, huddle next to modern motoring landmarks such as the Bugatti Veyron and the Ferrari LaFerrari — the brand’s first-ever hybrid sports car.

The real gem of the collection, however, remains the Bugatti Type 57 SC Atlantic. Built in 1938, with a 3.3-L supercharged engine, this car is one of only two in existence today — and only four were ever built by the Italian auto manufacturer. That car won Best in Show at the 1990 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance and the 2012 Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este — two of the world’s most renowned car shows — and has been given a potential price tag, should Lauren ever sell, in excess of $50 million.

Such is Lauren’s standing in the world of automobile collecting, the Louvre even went so far as to exhibit 17 of his cars in a stand-alone exhibit in 2011, and elements of the collection turn up in Ralph Lauren adverts from time to time.

That particular motoring indulgence aside, the man has stuck to the principles that are embedded in his clothes and continues to live a good life as a husband and father. Married since 1964, Ralph and Ricky (née Low-Beer) have raised three children — Andrew, David and Dylan — who have

often figured in Polo marketing campaigns. They maintain various residences, including a Fifth Avenue penthouse in Manhattan, N.Y., a sprawling seaside house in Montauk, N.Y., another estate in Bedford and their coveted ranch in Colorado, a 20,000-acre expanse that has been Ralph and Ricky’s home away from home for more than three decades. “This is where Ricky and I fell in love with the west. This is a really romantic, beautiful location,” says Lauren.

Their son David, 47, now serves as chief innovation officer and vice-chairman of Ralph Lauren Corporation under the direction of CEO Patrice Louvet, although Lauren himself remains an active force in the company’s overall direction and continues to serve as chairman and chief creative officer. He delights in the comfort that comes from having defined his legacy on his own terms.

“The pleasure is owning your brand. I started it, I built it and I brought it public,” declares Lauren.

“It’s a brand that’s going strong, and I feel it’s mine. I mean, I own a good share of it, so I don’t want to be one thing or another. I am who I am, and it’s a personal thing,” he says.

“I think if you look at brands and companies — those that are consistent, that have a point of view — they’re the ones that have longevity. If you jump all around, it’s a pot-luck game. I like things that go on, that are classic and built to last, but that doesn’t mean you should stop developing. I try to make things that are creative and stimulating, but not lose my identity.” www.ralphlauren.com @ralphlauren

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MAKING A DIFFERENCE

CHAMPION OF

DIVERSITY Diversity” and “inclusiveness” are buzzwords that have been making the rounds over the past few years. There is a decided difference, however, between parroting the words conversationally and actually practising these philosophies as truisms through continuous and genuine actions.

Alex Filiatrault, CEO of the Canadian Foundation for AIDS Research (CANFAR), is a proponent and a beacon of the latter — a person who embraces and loves Toronto’s multi-layered mosaic.

A native of Montreal, Filiatrault was born and raised in an immersive bilingual environment.

After working in a brokerage firm in Montreal for six years, he capitulated to his love for travel, spending just under two years in Europe. When he returned, he joined the hotel and hospitality industry as an executive in sales and marketing, a sector he worked in for 25 years.

Laughingly sharing that his friends would most likely describe him as a man on a mission, generous of heart, easy, accessible and passionate, Filiatrault says he refuses to take “No” for an answer. Having worked as a volunteer with CANFAR for 14 years, when Filiatrault was offered the role of CEO, it was a synergistic and natural fit.

CANFAR’s four key pillars — its guiding lights — are: prevention, testing, care and reducing stigma.

In order to raise awareness and actualize these pillars, CANFAR works closely with key partners to ensure continued investment in innovative research, thanks to ongoing generous donations that translate into grants for ending HIV in Canada.

HIV awareness is promoted across multiple

“ I LOVE THE DIVERSITY OF COMMUNITIES IN TORONTO. THE CITY IS AN AMAZING CANVAS OF PEOPLE” platforms. The events platform includes Bloor Street Entertains, the November annual marquee event now in its 23rd year. The event is hosted by 19 venues (including four new ones for 2019) and is attended by between 720 and 750 people.

Other key events include Can You Do Lunch?, where national spokespersons such as Valerie Pringle, Suzanne Boyd and Jeanne Beker moderate high-profile speakers, and AIDSbeat, where Bay Street law firms come together annually in a musical competition.

Along with social media awareness campaigns and the development of new websites and apps to help young people, a huge awareness campaign is in the works around HIV self-testing kits. “This is transformational for young people, who will eventually be able to pick up a kit at their pharmacy and self-test in their own home,” Filiatrault says.

“We are pushing to get government approval, as well as make the kit accessible to everyone by 2020.”

While a diagnosis of HIV is no longer a death sentence, and great strides have been made in the diagnosis and prevention of HIV, unquestionable concern still exists around the fact that six to seven new cases of HIV are diagnosed each day in Canada.

“The Youth Awareness Program, which falls under the national awareness program and is a key part of CANFAR’s mission, reaches out to teachers and thousands of youth 15–29 [years old]. The focus in particular is on marginalized communities, atrisk communities such as Indigenous communities, new Canadians, drug users and men who have sex with men,” Filiatrault says.

In conjunction with his commitment to CANFAR’s fundraisers, other key initiatives and annual fundraisers important to Filiatrault and his partner of 30 years, Dr. Graham Smith, include the SickKids Scrubs in the City event, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre and The Butterfly Ball – Boost for Kids.

Filiatrault, who lives at Bloor and Yonge streets, says he loves the beat of the city. “I love the diversity of communities in Toronto. The city is an amazing canvas of people from many parts of the world who bring their uniqueness to the city.

In turn, this diversity has changed the city in very positive, international and cosmopolitan ways,” he says.

A lover of history and architecture, Filiatrault is enchanted with cities such as Paris, Berlin and London. But he also loves New York and Los Angeles for their cosmopolitan and inclusive communities. “I am very big on cosmopolitan cities, on inclusive cities,” he says.

As a way to discover Toronto in his spare time, Filiatrault rides his bike through the city’s myriad

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PHOTO PHOTO BY

BY CARLOS CARLOS A. A. PINTO PINTO

A genuine supporter of community, Alex Filiatrault is a man of action and a champion of transformation and inclusiveness WRITTEN BY CECE M. SCOTT

Alex Filiatrault, an active advocate for diversity, shares his love for cities and his passion for community and inclusiveness Photo shot on location at Galerie de Bellefeuille, 87 Avenue Road, Suite 2, Toronto, Ont.

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FLIP. CLICK. TAP.

“EVERYONE HAS A VOICE AND CAN BE PART OF CHANGE. WE CAN ALL COME TOGETHER AND BE VERY IMPACTFUL. I BELIEVE STRONGLY IN COMMUNITIES AND BEING VERY ACTIVE WITHIN THEM”

The sweet life at your fingertips.

Print • Online • Mobile • Social

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neighbourhoods. “It is great to cycle around different neighbourhoods, discovering the new buildings going up,” he says.

And while Filiatrault can literally spend days and days wandering the streets of Paris, admiring the city’s historical buildings, he also loves the towering skyscrapers of Toronto and New York. “I get a big kick out of the new high-rises — how they are built, how high they are going, the architects; they are an inspiration,” he says.

An eclectic dresser, Filiatrault loves Canadian designers such as Christopher Bates, as well as international designers from Italian and French design houses. “I welcome the opportunity to discover local designers,” he says.

A movie enthusiast and a big fan of the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), Filiatrault says he loves familiarizing himself with emerging filmmakers and understanding the ins and outs of the movie industry, how movies and scripts come together and the technology behind the newest movies. “And while I have a soft spot for historical movies, I also like science fiction.”

When the art of living, as defined by exquisite food, eclectic fashion and definitive home design, comes together in symbiotic harmony, Filiatrault believes a dolce vita life has been achieved. He also firmly advocates that “everyone has a voice and can be part of change. We can all come together and be very impactful. I believe strongly in communities and being very active within them.” @afiliatrault

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Julie Vino’s singular wedding gowns are mystical masterpieces

BARCELONA 2020:

THE NEW ERA OF BEAUTIFUL BESPOKE BRIDES The Barcelona 2020 Collection from Julie Vino is a marriage of breathtaking elegance, pearlized style and dramatic flare, all with a strong connection to the leading runways of Paris, Milan and New York WRITTEN BY CECE M. SCOTT

PHOTOS COURTESY OF JULIE VINO

C

reatively inspired from an early age, Julie Vino’s passion for fashion became a reality in 2008, when, after an internship in some of Canada and Israel’s leading bridal fashion houses, she established her own brand of bridal and evening wear in Tel Aviv, Israel.

Her inspired and stylistic vision is both original and singular in that she combines classic styles with tasteful seduction and breathtakingly dramatic flair. Sourcing different markets and suppliers for the fabrics and accessories that most inspire her — ethnic, handmade brocade from India, lace from France and fabrics rich in details and embroidery from Italy — Vino creates standout fabrics and patterns that she designs herself, thus making her bridal attire bespoke and beautiful.

In a special department in her Jaffa, Israel, studio, Vino’s team of embroidery specialists add

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Outside Julie Vino’s making-your-dreams-cometrue shop and studio in Jaffa, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel

Expert and undivided attention is lavished on each of Vino’s clients

texture and additional embroidery to each fabric, making it exceptional and exquisite.

With an emphasis on sculpting and quality tailoring, Vino’s primary mission is to engage her bridal clients in the full process of creating a dress that mirrors the bride’s most fervent and magical dreams. To do that, Vino has created and dedicated an intimate area in her studio that includes a shower, dressing room, hairdresser and makeup artist, so the bride and her most cherished friends can envision what the big day will look like.

Of course, clients of Julie Vino are well assured that their special day will be stunning, as they appear before their partner in a gown that could only be envisioned by the passion of this superior designer. www.julievino.com @julievinobridal

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Angels sing as the bride floats down the aisle in this intricately feminine seethrough gown

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This Barcelona 2020 feature gown, with its cut-away back, sheer, pearlstudded sleeves and neotraditional train, is stunningly dramatic and seductive

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Innocence and seduction define this stunning and breathtaking trimmed-at-thewaist, pearl-encrusted bespoke bridal gown

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MOTORSPORT

ROLEX IS FUELLING A HISTORY OF FINE CARS HOW

For more than 20 years, the Goodwood Revival has become a living time capsule, dedicated to highlighting the legacy of motor racing between 1948 and 1966 WRITTEN BY JOSH WALKER

S

PHOTO BY ROLEX/GUILLAUME MÉGEVAND

ince its beginnings in 1905, Rolex has been a brand rich with history.

Whether it’s the company’s creation of the first waterproof and dustproof wristwatch in 1926, the fact that every member of the first crew to fly over Mount Everest in 1933 was wearing a Rolex Oyster or, more recently, that filmmaker James Cameron descended into the Mariana Trench, the first solo dive into the deepest point on Earth, with a Rolex

watch, it’s been involved in some of the human race’s most pinnacle moments.

But alongside these, Rolex is also closely tied to the world of motorsport, dating back to Sir Malcolm Campbell’s world land-speed record successes in the 1930s, when he surpassed the 300 miles per hour speed barrier. Since then, the brand has supported the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the FIA World Endurance Championship and, in 2013, became associated with Formula One.

That commitment to both history and exploration recently combined with the Goodwood Revival, an event honouring the legacy of motor racing between 1948 and 1966. Taking place at Goodwood Motor Circuit in the U.K. across three days in September, it strives to feel like a living time capsule. As a circuit, Goodwood was the spiritual home of British motor racing between the 1940s and 1960s, hosting classic races with some of the time’s most notorious

Atmosphere in the paddock at the Goodwood Revival

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drivers. The Goodwood Revival doesn’t want to just bring that back to life with the cars, but it also encourages all attendees to dress in fashions from the time.

“The Goodwood Revival is unique in the world of motoring — it is a collection of the finest cars in the most beautiful setting,” says Sir Jackie Stewart, Rolex testimonee and three-time FIA Formula One World Championship winner. “The authenticity of the event is exceptional and something you will always remember fondly. Rolex is very much part of the Goodwood Revival; the quality, immaculate detail, integrity and prestige perfectly align the brand with the [Goodwood] Revival.”

The event hosted a number of features focused on celebrating everything motor. Wheel-towheel races took place with pre-1963 closedcockpit cars, as well as motorcycles, touring cars, GT automobiles and prototypes from the past. Alongside that stood the Revival Car Show, featuring thousands of classic cars lined up for viewing by guests.

At the heart of the event, however, is the Rolex Drivers’ Club, which brings together aficionados and motor-racing heroes of all ages. For September’s event, four-time NASCAR champion and winner of the 2017 Rolex 24 at Daytona, Jeff Gordon, attended for the first time. Multiple MotoGP race winner Dani Pedrosa returned, as did Rolex testimonee and record nine-time winner of 24 Hours of Le Mans, Tom Kristensen.

“Goodwood Motor Circuit is very challenging,” says Kristensen, a regular to the event who competed again this year. “The circuit is fast, and the layout of the track equally so, requiring enormous concentration. It is a tremendous feeling driving an old-school circuit in vintage cars,” he says. “I always drive the track with the utmost respect, remembering the great drivers who have raced there.” www.goodwood.com

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PHOTO BY ROLEX/GUILLAUME MÉGEVAND

Rolex testimonee Tom Kristensen during the St Mary’s Trophy at the 2017 Goodwood Revival

PHOTO BY ROLEX/NICK HARVEY

— Sir Jackie Stewart

Pit stop during the Kinrara Trophy at the 2018 Goodwood Revival

PHOTO BY ROLEX/NICK HARVEY

“THE AUTHENTICITY OF THE EVENT IS EXCEPTIONAL AND SOMETHING YOU WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER FONDLY”

Style at the Goodwood Revival

INTERIOR DESIGN

In collaboration with Covet House and its luxury brands, Sawyer created this glamorous, drama-filled space for a VIP client in Dubai

Q&A WITH

CELIA SAWYER

We spoke with the multi-talented businesswoman about her successful design career and her definition of beauty

PHOTO BY TOM JACKSON

INTERVIEW BY MICHELLE ZERILLO-SOSA

Q. What is your definition of luxury and beauty?

A. My definition of luxury and beauty is high quality, uniqueness, sophistication and glamour.

Q. How did you come to be a celebrated interior designer?

A. It all came from reputation. It wasn’t overnight.

I have been working in this industry for over 20

years and started on small projects; however, over a period of years and many recommendations later, my career gradually took a turn. I started working with royalty from overseas, famous movie stars and singers, high-net-worth people, and it seemed to nudge me to the level I am at now. I am very lucky, as I get to work on very exciting projects such as aviation, beautiful homes all over the world and some nice commercial work, too.

Q. What are some things you would do differently in your career if you had the chance?

A. I would have worked with a really good yacht/ boat designer who I could’ve learned from and then gone into superyacht design more. This is something I haven’t worked on much. In fact, this industry is really dominated by male designers. I was asked to do a talk in Kitzbühel, Austria, a few

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AURE RADS

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“PEOPLE ARE SOMETIMES A LITTLE AFRAID TO BE HONEST ABOUT WHAT THEY REALLY LIKE. ONCE I GET INTO THEIR PSYCHE ... THEN I CAN DESIGN SOMETHING FOR THEM THAT THEY WILL LOVE” years ago at the Superyacht Design Symposium, and I was talking to Terence Disdale (a great superyacht designer) who did just that — learned from a great boat designer and then went on to have his own practice, which is hugely successful.

The centrepiece of the living area is the grandiose Empire Chandelier, inspired by the architecture of the Empire State Building

PHOTO COURTESY OF CELIA SAWYER

Q. Can you tell us a bit about your journey, and how you became so successful in your field?

A. I started small, working on refurbishments in London mainly, modernizing apartments and homes for people and working with a lot of property developers, helping them design the interiors of new builds, so the interiors were functional and the layouts were good. My work started to catch the eye of the agents selling property around the central London area, and they started to recommend me to clients, and it really escalated from there. I pride myself on the fact that I deliver on time and on budget a quality product, and this has got me to where I am now.

Q. Do you recall when you knew you were doing something you loved and had found your calling?

A. I have always been creative. At school, I loved art and also loved to go and look at people’s homes when I was young. My mum took me to see a show home, and I absolutely loved looking around it, seeing the continuity of the design and what a difference it made to the inside of a home. I have always been very observant, so this is really where the love for the job came from, way back when I was young. I love designing an interior space, get very excited when a project comes in and I have to think up the interior from scratch. It really pushes me mentally and tests out my creativity.

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Shahin, a 24-karat-gold sculpture by contemporary pop artist Stephen Cawston, is an eye-catching focal point in this dramatic space

Q. Describe your favourite place to go to when you want to feel inspired.

A. There are so many places I like to go to feel inspired. It also really depends on the type of project I may be working on. For instance, if it is a city home for someone, then I enjoy going into a city. Whether it is New York or London, there are buildings, shapes, architecture that inspire me.

However, if I am designing for a countryside home or a beachside home, then I enjoy going to those places for inspiration from nature itself.

The space makes extensive use of mirrors to contrast its dark surfaces and reflect the outside

PHOTOS COURTESY OF CELIA SAWYER

Q. What are this year’s top interior design trends?

A. A lot of bold colours are trending at the moment — whether it is in fabrics, wall coverings, furniture or rugs — mixing them up together to make a bold statement.

Q. What is the one thing you include in your projects that is a bit of your signature in your design work?

A. It has to be mirrors and/or mirrored furniture.

I always use a lot of mirrors, as they are key to opening up a space, but also to make a space brighter and more glamorous. I don’t think there

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is one project (except aviation) that I haven’t used a lot of mirrors in.

Q. Do you have any preference as to when you like to get involved in a project?

A. Yes, I prefer to be involved right at the beginning of a project. That way, I don’t have to spend time trying to rectify a badly thought-out interior space.

Q. What are some things you have learned about people over the years as a designer?

A. People are sometimes a little afraid to be honest about what they really like. Once I get into their psyche and get them to start really thinking about what makes them happy, calm or angry, then I can design something for them that they will love. On the other hand, some clients are very clear as to their likes and dislikes, which makes the process fairly simple.

Q. Tell us a bit about your personal life and family.

A. I’ve always been a working mum and have

two children: Jack is 17, and Lili is coming up to 21. They are both great children, and Lili is now at university studying fashion in London, whilst Jack has his A levels next summer. I enjoy being with my children. I never had a nanny to look after them, as I felt it was more important to spend time with them as my husband is away a lot with his business (he is a director making TV ads), so I wanted them to have stability with me. I must admit, though, when I have been very busy and the children were young, it was tricky.

However, we managed it. In my personal time, I go running (almost every day) and go to the gym, as I like weight training and keeping fit; it helps me to keep clear mentally. I also work with a lot of charities. I am a patron for the Women’s Refuge, the Children’s Liver Disease Foundation, an ambassador for the Prince’s Trust and the British Heart Foundation. And I just got awarded a Global Goodwill Ambassador for humanitarian work, so I keep very busy with a lot of this work. I enjoy mentoring young people, too, to encourage them to fulfil their dreams. And I often do talks at schools or offer work experience, which is fun.

Q. Who has been your biggest influencer?

A. Probably David Collins, who was a British designer. He worked on some amazing hotels and bars, but many designers influence me all over the world for various reasons. It could be their use of colour, textures or just a style I really like. There are so many talented designers worldwide.

Q. What do people most admire about you?

A. My honesty, I think. I say it as it is, as I feel you need to be straight with people, which certainly makes them trust you.

Q. Define your design style in three words.

A. Sophisticated, glamorous and cool.

Q. Do you have a special quote or saying you would like to share with us?

A. “There is no elevator to success – you need to take the stairs!” www.celiasawyer.com @celiasawyer

With a striking palette of black and golds, this design evokes the opulent esthetics of Dubai

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ART

A LOOK RICH

WITH IDEAS AND CONTEXT A generational love for art and antiques, Todd Merrill is passionate about inspiring and presenting artists and ideas that are singular and unique WRITTEN BY CECE M. SCOTT

R

epresenting the third generation of his family in the antique business, Todd Merrill was inherently groomed by his grandparents, Nathan and Margaret Merrill, who, in the late 1920s, owned an art and antiques business in Burlington, Vermont that specialized in Americana. In 1968, Merrill’s father contributed to the family entrepreneurial spirit by establishing an estate auction business.

“I worked in my grandparents’ antique business when I was a teenager,” Merrill says. “By the time I was in college, I was running the business.

After graduating, I moved to New York City, where I worked in publishing and film, before

joining Christie’s Auction House as Director of Public Relations.”

In 2000, Merrill opened his first New York City gallery, which specialized in mid- 20th Century American and European vintage design. By 2009, he’d expanded the gallery’s program to focus on contemporary studio design, including furniture, lighting, and decorative art from both established and young artists.

Merrill’s commitment and interest in the gallery’s artists focuses on understanding and profiling the singular and unique creations of the selected artists, the techniques they are using and, ultimately, an insight as to what design, furniture

and functional art can become. “We try to be on the absolute cutting edge,” Merrill says.

Todd’s motivation to found a gallery was piqued by how the traditional art and antiques business was changing. By the year 2000, people seemed very interested in what was modern and how they could inject something fresh into their interiors.

Merrill found that there was a whole undiscovered period of late 20th Century American unique and custom studio furniture that had been designed by individual artists and craftsmen. “I discovered that there were artists working on their own, people like Paul Evans and Karl Springer, and several others, who were producing pieces that were

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF TODD MERRILL STUDIO

The commonality of the pieces exhibited by Todd Merrill Studio is that they are all based in abstract expressionism

PHOTO BY JUOZAS CERNIUS

The third generation in his family to work with antiques, Todd is motivated by showing pieces that are handcrafted and unique

highly crafted, and often very high end. In fact, some pieces were the most expensive furniture that you could buy in America at the time. Those people who had created between the time frame of the end of the war and the 1990’s had been forgotten. I wasn’t interested in the fancy office furniture, or country modern. Instead, I was interested in people who were producing things to their own taste and whim. I was looking for singular and unique pieces that the artist’s hand had touched.”

Todd Merrill Studios, who are known for their vintage studio design, include the premiere New York City studio, which is located on Lafayette Street, in the TriBeCa area of New York City, and the summer pop up studio, which is located in Southampton, (opened May through the end of September). “We have different approaches to how we exhibit at the two galleries,” Merrill says.

“Sometimes our pop up Southampton Gallery does single artist’s exhibitions. We try to show things that are more appropriate for the beach.

The overall approach in our summer gallery is less formal in the collections, more casual and relaxed.”

Because his grandfather was a cabinet maker, Merrill spent a lot of time in his grandfather’s workshop, which ultimately taught him how to make things. But Merrill’s real strength comes from his designs, which include upholstered furniture - sofas and chairs – original designs that are captured in their own catalogue under the Custom Originals banner.

The commonality of the pieces exhibited in Merrill’s studio, which in addition to the furniture, includes photography and painting are that they are all based in abstract expressionism, popular in the late 1940s and early 1950s, a style and discipline that Merrill himself is attracted to. As such, the painters the gallery exhibits reflect that era. Knox Martin, one of the original abstract expressionists, who is now in his 90s, was featured in a Merrill show last year.

“We choose artists that we believe are advancing the possibilities of contemporary art and design, whether through innovative materials or groundbreaking techniques. The work needs to fit in with the overall feel of where we are coming from.”

A key philosophy for the studio is to show pieces in context, so that people can envision how a whole arrangement would look and how it would work. “When people see things together - a sofa with a coffee table and a great lamp and a beautiful photograph - we are presenting a look and inspiring ideas,” Merrill says.

Todd is also the author of Modern Americana: Studio Furniture from High Craft to High Glam, (Rizzoli, 2008), which is touted as the first ever comprehensive and authoritative guide to the great studio furniture makers and designers, who from 1940 through the 1990s, defined American high style. In 2018, to celebrate the book’s tenth anniversary, Rizzoli republished the book with an expanded edition that added chapters focusing on Women Makers and Showrooms.

Todd Merrill Studio does 8-12 shows internationally a year, across a broad spectrum of chic cosmopolitan cities including London, Geneva, Brussels, and Miami. Closer to home, a solo exhibition of Canadian artist, Przemek Pyszczek, which will feature both his façade paintings and his first collection of functional design that embraces high-end, playful furniture, is being presented by the Todd Merrill Studio at Art Toronto, Oct. 25th-27th.

“Our artists value that we promote unique work –pieces that it are material driven, technique driven- ones that have been touched by the artist’s hand,” Merrill says. “Our gallery clients know that when they are looking for items, whether it be furniture, photography, or paintings that are unique, of excellent quality, and, importantly made by the artist’s hand, they will find them here.

We do not want anything that is manufactured or mass produced.”

While Merrill is discreet about his clientele, he is happy to share the names of some of his top designers, which include Yabu Pushelberg, Ingrao, Pembrooke and Ives, Drake Anderson, Veere Grenney, Nicolehollis, and Ryan Korban.

“Most of our designs are available to be customized by the artist specifically for a client or an interior,” Merrill says. “When you come to our studios you are going to get something that is of outstanding quality, very unique and one that is possibly made just for you.” www.toddmerrillstudio.com

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DOLCE EXCE LLE NCE AUTO

PHOTO BY NIGEL HARNIMAN

Rolls-Royce Ghost is one of the world’s most acclaimed motor cars, reflecting the ultimate in luxury, performance and craftsmanship

PHOTO BY HASSELBLAD HSD

ZENITH COLLECTOR’S EDITION OF ROLLS-ROYCE GHOST NOW AVAILABLE

To mark its 10th anniversary, a collection of just 50 handmade Rolls-Royce Ghosts are now on offer

I

n the automotive world, there is no betterknown symbol than the “Spirit of Ecstasy” hood ornament that has adorned Rolls-Royce motor cars for more than a century. The emblem will become even more valued as Rolls-Royce is offering to discerning collectors just 50 of the handcrafted Zenith Collector’s Edition of the Rolls-Royce Ghost, marking the 10 anniversary of the beginning of its production in 2009.

The special collection of these transformative luxury motor cars is being handmanufactured at the home of Rolls-Royce in Goodwood, West Sussex, England — the only place in the world where these cars are hand-built. Orders are now being taken for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and are expected to fill quickly, as when the Ghost Zenith was introduced in 2009, and it quickly became — and

WRITTEN BY RICK MULLER

remains to this day — the most successful Rolls-Royce ever made.

The Ghost Zenith Collection is the first limitededition opportunity offered by Rolls-Royce since 50 Phantom VII Zeniths were created in 2016 and became highly collectable. “This unique collection provides patrons of the marque with a rare opportunity to own a motor car truly evocative of our time,” says Torsten Müller Ötvös, chief executive officer, RollsRoyce Motor Cars.

Interiors of the Ghost Zenith Collection are luxury personified, with generous wood and leather features reflecting the ultimate in craftsmanship and quality.

Members of the Bespoke Collective from Rolls-Royce’s leather shop have created rear seats with embroidery inspired from the original 1907 Silver Ghost. The seats are accentuated in contrasting leather, presenting

Ghost as the ultimate four-seat limousine.

The famed starlight headliner interior roof is presented in an original shooting-star configuration, with stars firing at random across the cabin roof.

The extraordinary lighting feature consists of 1,340 individually mapped and hand-woven fibre optic lights.

The Ghost Zenith Collection’s exterior features a special two-tone application with a gloss-contrast paint finish available in either Blue with White, Silver with White or a dramatic Bohemian Red with Black Diamond.

This Ghost Zenith Collection is a rare opportunity for collectors of luxury to acquire one of the world’s most acclaimed motor cars and celebrate a timeless masterpiece. www.rolls-roycemotorcarsna.com

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