Lifestyle Magazine Online November/December 2019

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019

HOME RENOS

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Deck the halls with a ceramic art sculpture or stained glass window or choose an expertly framed piece of art from one of Elgin’s many galleries and studios.

Explore quaint boutiques for trendy clothing and jewellery, select fine local wines, pick up handcrafted home décor, natural skin care products, hand-made pottery, sweet local honey, artisan candles and more!

A culinary gift is a perfect choice for that hard to buy for person. Help the chef in your life spice up their cooking with locally grown herbs or delicious jams and jellies.

For those that prefer to be catered to, try a gift certificate to one of Elgin’s quality restaurants and bakeries that offer everything from sweet treats to hearty country fare – all using local ingredients.

A round of golf at one of Elgin’s many courses or tickets to a live theatre performance are always appreciated gifts.

Wow everyone on your list!

Find great gift ideas at: www.elgintourist.com/shop

contents N OV EM B ER

| D EC EM B ER 201 9

17

Sparkle with Style

HOMESTYLE

10

10

17

From the experts

36

Timeless classic

44

Old world style

15 41 22

42

More joy, less work

Effortless holiday décor

48 35 42

Designers illustrate their styles Century home update

In a modern world

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BESTLIFE

The perfect setting Tables to welcome all

CULTURELIFE The world stage

Local dancer competes internationally

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European vacation Destination Portugal

BIZLIFE 52 Acura West 53 Accents Furniture 54 Gordons Gold

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Lifestyle 5

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LIFESTYLE PUBLISHER Lana L. Breier EDITOR Jill Ellis-Worthington WRITERS Ellen Ashton-Haiste Lisa Brandt Clare Dear Jill Ellis-Worthington Mary Jansenberger Kathy Mueller Wayne Newton Kathy Rumleski Janis Wallace ACCOUNT MANAGERS Annette Gent 519-200-0283 annettegent537@gmail.com Candace Hamilton 519.383.3447 candace2821@gmail.com Mary Jansenberger 519.619.1485 mjansenberger@outlook.com Lorraine Lukings 519-520-7676 lorrainelukings@hotmail.com Jan McGrath 519-243-2932 jm@lambtonshores.com EDITORIAL & AD DESIGN Wendy Reid AD DESIGN Nancy Greenfield Bill McGrath PRODUCTION Nancy Greenfield PHOTOGRAPHY Richard Bain PRINTING Sportswood Printing WEB ARCHITECTURE Redding Design Inc. www.reddingdesigns.com

Lifestyle is published six times a year by 2251632 Ontario Inc. c.o.b. Lifestyle Magazine 108 Tuyll Street, Bayfield N0M 1G0 519-873-0989 lifestylemagazinepublishing@gmail.com

Thirty years of business built on trust.

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Our award-winning team provides a full spectrum of home renovation services, including kitchens, bathrooms, whole home transformations, additions & more.

Call us today to talk about planning your dream renovation, and start getting more home out of your home.

Copies are distributed to selected homes, magazine stands and local businesses in London and area.

Canada Post Agreement #41277015 No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher. The publisher accepts no responsibility for unsolicited material.

All rights reserved. Printed in Canada.

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November/December 2019

Lifestyle ď ‡

EDITOR’S note BUILDING ORIGINAL HOMES FOR ORIGINAL PEOPLE We’ll make your next home as original as you are Why settle for a run-of-the-mill custom home when you can have an entirely original one? With a planning process that starts with nothing more than your dreams and a blank sheet of paper, you can be sure your Riverstone Original Home will be every bit as unique and remarkable as you are.

We’ve been building original homes for well over 20 years now, and each one has been entirely

“Three phrases that sum up Christmas are: peace on earth, goodwill to mankind and batteries not included.”

AUTHOR UNKNOWN

T

here’s almost nothing in this world that can’t be made better, easier or more tolerable with a dash of humour.

That may sound like a flippant response to some of the truly awful things that life often hands us: a very bad health diagnosis, a relationship breakdown or a dire financial situation. But think about it, even these personal catastrophes can often be better borne by stepping back, taking a deep breath and trying to find even the smallest dash of irony that can engender a little smile.

That’s why I like the above quote so much; it balances out the seemingly mandatory annual earnest quest for inner/outer peace and harmony though they remain elusive.

There’s a lot of weight on the holidays for perfection: Pinterestworthy decorations, Instagrammable food and Facebook-happy gatherings.

Somewhere in all the pressure to perform, enjoyment or the ‘reason for the season’ get lost.

The latter may be religious or

different than the one before it.

And that’s exactly how it should be.

www.riverstoneoriginalhomes.com 519 . 666 . 3537 Mike Loyens • Travis Loyens

Lara Leitch, Photo Perfect – London

8 Lifestyle November/December 2019

spiritual while others feel that their reason is an opportunity to show loved ones the depth of their feelings through getting together despite busy schedules or truly finding the ‘perfect gift’ for them.

Many try to inject some levity into this frenetic time of year through applying a foam rack of reindeer antlers to the hood of their vehicle, wearing tacky holiday sweaters or watching endless loops of whacky holiday-themed movies.

I like to bring the funny whenever I can but sometimes it’s unintentional.

Case in point, I was at a recent medical appointment and when the nurse asked if I had allergies, I said, “Yes, I’m allergic to stupid people.” Her ROFL response surprised me but she explained that it had been a tense day at the doctor’s office and that she really needed a laugh. I decided then that if I can help others by adding humour to a situation that I will. Of course, the caveat is that it has to be appropriate and thoughtful – and that’s sometimes tough to judge.

How can we try to add some levity to our collective holiday season?

How will you lighten the load you are carrying by finding the humour in a stressful situation? How can we make others smile during a stressful, holiday-heated moment?

There are so many fun and enjoyable things to do, see and experience at this this time of year that outweigh the negative ones and that’s worth a smile every day until the New Year begins.

The Lifestyle team wishes you a funny, feisty holiday!

Jill Ellis-Worthington lifestyle.editor@writedoton.com

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November/December 2019

Lifestyle 9

beststyle

complicated

IT'S NOT

1

By Jill Ellis-Worthington

SIMPLE WAYS TO RESTORE YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH THE HOLIDAY SEASON

T

he holiday season is busy and stressful and often adds just that ‘one more thing’ that can send us over the edge. But holiday decorating is like a good book, with every turn there’s something new and surprising.

Kay Habib, of Skill Décor, has some suggestions for ensuring your home takes on a festive feel. “Don’t be afraid of using an alternative colour scheme if you’re tired of traditional. Even using varied new shades of red and green, can freshen it up.” She adds that using plaid touches is an inventive way of employing the usual colour scheme.

Here are some other ideas that Habib thinks will add some sugar and spice to your holiday home. You’ll be back in love with the holiday season before the first note of White Christmas comes across the radio. 

10 Lifestyle November/December 2019

2 4

3

5

1 The 1980s are back with glamour, glitz and everything bigger. “Some want a one-colour minimalist look but the colourful palette of the 80s is popular,” says Habib.

2 Or keep it simple: strings of battery-operated LED lights can be used to add sparkle to glass balls in a vase or anywhere else.

3 Don’t be afraid of adding personal touches to your regular wreath. Family hobbies can be woven into the décor.

4 “Plaid adds a cozy, warm feeling,” says Habib. Add it where a touch of colour is needed.

5 Retro is big in home decorating generally but especially at Christmas because we reflect on happy childhood memories.

6 You may be gluten and dairy free, but baking cookies for Santa is a must. It’s the one time kids will volunteer for kitchen duty.

6

7 8

9

10 11

7 Tired of the tree overtaking the living room? Move it into the kid’s area of the house and incorporate their tastes in decorating it.

8 Furry friends are becoming some of the most gifted members of the family, says Habib. “Many people have trees especially for their pets.”

9 Dressing up the bar area adds a note of festive fun. Remember to add non-alcohol options for the designated drivers and teetotalers among your guests.

10 Simple and elegant, this arrangement adds a romantic touch long after the holidays are over.

11 Go big or go home – if that’s your mindset why not go big at home with over-the top greenery spilling over the mantle and banister, advises Habib.

12 Your everyday dishware takes on a new identity when paired with festive crimson napkins. Add a touch of holly, and you’re ready to entertain. 

12

13 No longer worried about combating the spread of the Black Death plague (pomanders original use), these festive balls are now a kid-friendly craft that doubles as decoration.

13

November/December 2019

Lifestyle 11

BE READY FOR NEXT SPRING! GET YOUR CUSHIONS RECOVERED NOW!

BEFORE

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12 Lifestyle November/December 2019

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IT'S NOT COMPLICATED ~ Continued from page 11

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15

VISIT US AT OUR NEW THORNDALE LOCATION! 16

17 14 Create a peaceful ambiance to tackle all of your wrapping. Habib adds that you won’t need to remove this tableau until spring crocuses pop up.

15 If your Pinterest boards are a DIY dream, it’s time to display some of your homemade goodies during the holidays.

16 Yummy ready-made options, paired with mulled wine or cider and served on a lovely tray, make pop-in guests feel welcome.

17 The holiday party season is the perfect time to indulge your secret passion for mixology. Impress guests with signature cocktail concoctions. 

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Lifestyle 13

IT'S NOT COMPLICATED ~ Continued from page 13

Upskill between bedtime stories and TV time.

STUDY ONLINE, ON YOUR TIME.

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Call: 519.685.0220 website: ChristmasdeCorlondon.Com A division of CLC Tree serviCes LTd. a business integrity award winner 14 Lifestyle November/December 2019

CommerCial & residential

18 Minimalists, overwhelmed by fussy decorations, can display their festive feeling with a simple poinsettia or small pine tree in a galvanized pot, says Habib.

19 One meal each year demands the very best for your family, and you can impress everyone with your hidden hostessing talents (a la Martha Stewart).

20 Passionate about purple? Feeling in the pink?

Habib thinks you should indulge those yearnings by creating a wreath that reflects your festive best. n

Setting the stage

FOR SITTING TOGETHER

By Jill Ellis-Worthington

A

ll year long, we rush, rush, rush and often don’t take the time to properly dress our tables. Doing so sets the stage for special shared occasions. Taking the time to provide a beautiful atmosphere lets our family members and friends know how much we value them.

Mary Ann Skaro, of Tablescapes In Style, says that your festive setting should reflect who you are but should be a little bit more distinctive than the everyday display. “It’s a great time to take out your special china, silver and glassware and celebrate the season.

And definitely use chargers as they set the tone of your table.

Besides the tree, it’s the major focal point of your home’s seasonal decorating.”

There are fewer ‘rules’ around a properly set table but a few still apply. “A beautiful table cloth is your foundation and a lovely centerpiece is important,” says Skaro. Here are some other tips she has to make your holiday celebrates special. n

bestlife

1

2

3

4

5

6

● FOR MORE INFORMATION TABLESCAPES IN STYLE

www.tablescapesinstyle.com

1 Plates and cutlery used during summer picnics can be paired with seasonal accents. “Kids will love this,” says Skaro.

2 For an outdoor feel, she suggests tying a sprig of rosemary around cutlery or napkins as an inventive napkin ring.

3 Colours you love can substitute for traditional tones. Use again for a special Valentines dinner or bridal shower.

4 Minimalists will go for this low-fuss setting.

Give your attention to the special napkin instead of overcrowding the table, advises Skaro.

5 Add sparkle for an intimate pre-holiday dinner party or more formal New Year’s Eve event for a few couples.

6 A traditional table gets glammed up with greenery and gold beads.

“The red charger really makes this holiday setting,” adds Skaro.

November/December 2019

Lifestyle 15

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your space @Geerlinks ST. THOMAS 16 Lifestyle November/December 2019

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Striped fabric Orren chair with acrylic legs

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2019-10-09 11:41 AM

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This living room’s décor features a neutral palette highlighted with the warm colours and textures of the farm, complemented by the sleek lines and metal finishes of modernity.

Misae ivory crushed velvet pillow, Theban ivory textured pillow, Lamb’s fur pillow in ivory

Patty Dowling Interior design consultant

Maroq shag rug, available in multiple sizes

Colebrook sectional sofa in slate leather

modern farmhouse COZY COUNTRY-MEETS-SLEEK CITY Jadzia set of vases with floral relief

Reynolds chrome and glass console table Victor equestrian framed artwork

● FOR MORE INFORMATION • ACCENTS HOME FURNITURE • 1-1422 Fanshawe Park Road West • 519-474-7111 • www.accentshomefurniture.com

festive fashion

By Mary Jansenberger

STEP OUT IN STYLE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

Holiday party season is a gift to those who want a reason to glam up. Everyday life is filled with events and activities that dictate our fashion choices, but holiday parties allow our inner divas to shine.

Whether you’re enjoying after-work drinks with the girls, throwing an intimate dinner party for just a few couples or attending a fancy soiree, choices abound for all your holiday happenings. From sequins to animal prints, it’s time to sparkle and roar. Don’t forget to complete your look from head to toe, with accessories, tights and footwear to elevate your outfit to a total showstopper. 

It's a glam slam with these sophisticated looks from Hangar9, both from Anne Fontaine. This feminine twist on the classic tux is a show stealer. Add some sparkle with earrings by Margo Morrison.

The ruffled blouse pairs well with skirts long and short.

INSET Shown here with a black satin skirt from Dorothee Schumacher.

1 3

4 2 1. Stuart Weitzman lamé sock boot 2. Shimmer kitten mule by Stuart Weitzman 3. Dorothee Schumacher silver ankle boot 4. Mirror heeled sock boot by Casadei FOOTWEAR AVAILABLE AT HANGAR9.

22 Lifestyle November/December 2019

LEFT Step out in a seasonally appropriate emerald jacket dress from Adelyn Rae. Available at Juniper Dress Boutique.

RIGHT This fetching fuchsia strapless number, with a lace inset, comes from Adelyn Rae and is available at Juniper Dress Boutique.

FEATURING LIKE NEW BRAND & DESIGNER LABELS Call for information on consigning Up to 2,000 new items every week

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LEFT Joseph Ribkoff helps us relax but also look stylish in this mesh and sequin detailed cardigan from LifeStyles Women’s Wear.

RIGHT Day-to-night dressing is easy with the comfort and style of this Sympli True-T three quarter sleeve blouse from Buttons and Bows.

We have hundreds of beautiful designs to choose from for engagements, anniversaries and general expressions of love.

Canadian Diamonds Quality Craftsmanship • Superior Service • •

721 Talbot Street, St. Thomas, ON ~ Continued on page 25

519-631-3692

www.muscatjewellers.com November/December 2019

Lifestyle 23

Look good.

Do good.

November is Woman Abuse Prevention Month

ONLY THE LOOK IS EXPENSIVE

FASHION

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620 Richmond St | London | @Hangar9 | @Hangar9_Inc 24 Lifestyle November/December 2019

FESTIVE FASHION

~ Continued from page 23

428 Richmond Street, London, ON 519-601-9099 www.richmonddiamonds.ca richmonddiamonds@rogers.com

TOP This red and black jacket is the perfect fit for a post-work gathering. BOTTOM You can reminisce about your favourite scenes in Madmen in this leopard print topper. 

615 Richmond St., London 519.663-1143

www.LifeStylesWW.ca Free parking directly behind store November/December 2019

Lifestyle 25

gifts

FOR HIM

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26 Lifestyle November/December 2019

Meet the

newest members

of our team...

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

HOME RENOS

INTERIORS

NEW HOMES

BEAUTY

FASHION

FOOD

TRAVEL

HEALTH

AUTO

SHOPPING

winter getaway

Lifestyle Magazine is pleased to add two new dynamic account managers to our growing team of professionals.

IN NAPLES, FLORIDA

Don’t miss out on our upcoming January/February 2020 issue and reach over 25,000 potential customers!

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MARY JANSENBERGER Account Manager 519.619.1485

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LIFESTYLE HOME SHOW

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HOME RENOS INTERIORS NEW HOMES BEAUTY FASHION FOOD TRAVEL HEALTH AUTO SHOPPING

28 Lifestyle November/December 2019

FESTIVE FASHION

~ Continued from page 25

The other party goers will be green with envy when you show up in this emerald combo: satin blouse from Frame, shimmer pant by Birgitte Herskind, bracelets by Margo Morrison and hoop earrings by Dean Davidson. All available at Hangar9.

● FOR MORE INFORMATION

HANGAR9 London Location 620 Richmond Street 519-672-0073 • www.hangar9.ca Toronto Location First Canadian Place 100 King Street West 416-777-0073 • www.hangar9.ca JUNIPER DRESS BOUTIQUE 655 Fanshawe Park Road West 519-472-0909 • www.juniperdress.com LIFESTYLES WOMEN’S WEAR 615 Richmond Street 519-663-1143 • www.lifestylesww.ca

429 Talbot Street, St. Thomas Westmount Shopping Centre & 204 Central Ave., London www.mugfordshoes.com

BUTTONS & BOWS 131 Michigan Avenue, Point Edward 519-491-1412 • www.buttons-and-bows.ca

November/December 2019

Lifestyle 29

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Seasons Greetings from the Lifestyle Magazine Team!

LI FEST YLEMAGA ZIN EON LIN E .COM 30 Lifestyle November/December 2019

Port Stanley

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Try Port’s own Roasted Trail Mix, in Cherry, Cranberry and Blueberry.

Gift Certificates & 2020 Season Subscriptions Available

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2020 Summer Theatre Season Line Up The Crooner Show

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by Norm Foster June 3 to June 27 World Premiere of Our House

by Murray Furrow July 1 to July 18 Hurry Hard by Kristen Da Silva July 22 to August 15 The Perils of Persephone

by Dan Needles August 19 to September 12

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November/December 2019

Lifestyle 31

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November/December 2019

Lifestyle 33

34 Lifestyle November/December 2019

travelstyle

getaways

GRAND BEND & AREA

Lovely and lavish BOUTIQUE HOTEL OPENS IN BLYTH

By Jill Ellis-Worthington

S

urrounded by high-end furnishings in an ambiance that bespeaks old world charm, complemented by modern amenities. If that’s the type of romantic getaway destination that speaks to you, then Hotel Lux is calling your name.

A small boutique hotel newly opened in Blyth is the passion child of Colleen Jordan and Shane Yerema. The two travelled to this Huron County village for a play at Blyth Festival Theatre (a birthday gift from Yerema’s children) and by the time they were on the way home, Jordan was investigating ways to become a part of this rising community.

“We loved what they’ve done at Cowbell (Brewery) and their vision. We want to be part of that vision and to fulfill it they need accommodations in this area,” explains Jordan.

After looking at several options, the couple purchased a former commercial building built in 1888 and started renovations.

Yerema has been doing renovations and flipping homes (True North Renovations and True North Homes) in London for 30 years, with Jordan joining him in the business in 2014.

Each of the Hotel Lux suites is unique and is themed around some aspect of this

Huron County community. Each has the modern amenities of gracious living. The Queensview room is the largest suite, with old-world ambiance, a soaker tub and views of Queen Street. The Greenway suite celebrates the G2G Trail (Guelph to Goderich biking/hiking trail) with a wall mural, while the Industry Hall suite recognizes the agricultural heritage of the area. It also has a pull-out couch, so it can sleep an extra person or two. Each of the rooms displays historic elements appropriate to the age of the building.

Two more suites will be completed in 2020 in the lower floor of the building, with one of those being completely accessible. They are also using sustainable and green practices, with recyclable coffee pucks, hygiene amenities in large containers and a high-efficiency heating/ cooling system.

Hotel Lux is open year-round because the couple has fallen in love with the Blyth community and they are working with other businesses in the area to ensure a more year-round flow of tourism business.

“You really need to book at least two nights to really enjoy the luxury of the hotel and to see all the great things in this area,” says Jordan. n

ABOVE The Queensview Suite welcomes guests with old-world charm. BOTTOM The Greenway Suite celebrates the area's verdant beauty.

● FOR MORE INFORMATION • HOTEL LUX • 197 Dinsley Street, Blyth • 519-450-8589 • www.hotellux.ca

November/December 2019

Lifestyle 35

homestyle

future meet

WHERE PAST AND

BRINGING TOGETHER CHARACTER AND CONTEMPORARY

By Ellen Ashton-Haiste

TOP The former living room is now a modern, expansive kitchen, featuring cabinetry from Heritage Custom Cabinets.

Work space is enhanced with addition of a large island.

BOTTOM LEFT The kitchen features a front banquette area that overlooks the verandah, with floor-to-ceiling windows.

BOTTOM RIGHT Two original stained glass windows were restored to retain some of the character features of the home.

36 Lifestyle November/December 2019

F

rom the street, the Huron Street house fits seamlessly into the historic character of Old North London, with its parade of turn-ofthe-20th-century homes. But, open the front door of this house and step into 21st-century contemporary design and cutting-edge technology. This transformation was accomplished through a complete home renovation by CCR Build and Remodel. 

TOP This century home was reconfigured to make it work for a modern family, with large, open spaces and contemporary amenities.

Many of the rooms were repurposed in the redesign.

ABOVE The back porch was enclosed and insulated to create an entrance and mudroom. The original exterior brick was maintained.

ABOVE RIGHT Now a large comfy area with lots of natural light allowed through the bow window and skylights, the fourth floor was an attic prior to the extensive renovation.

RIGHT Now a three-bedroom home, one of the four previous bedrooms was sacrificed in favour of creating a large master suite, with ensuite bathroom. 

November/December 2019

Lifestyle 3ď ‡

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WHERE PAST AND FUTURE MEET ~ Continued from page 37

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MORE SPACE In the reconfigured layout, the new dining room gains light from a window that overlooks the new outside entrance and mudroom.

When Suzanne and Don Welsh relocated to London from Calgary in 2015, they fell in love with the Old North neighbourhood, just steps away from Western University where both are employed. The house exuded the area’s charm and boasted a double-length rear yard with a virtual urban forest of mature trees. But the interior left much to be desired in terms of function and décor.

CCR owners Arne and Peder Madsen welcomed the challenge of creating a functional and contemporary living space within the existing footprint. It involved repurposing rooms and altering the home’s layout.

The original main level had a living room along the entire east side of the house, with a fireplace and garden doors to the front covered verandah.

Across a central hallway was a front dining room and small rear kitchen.

The living room was replaced with an expansive kitchen featuring cabinetry by Heritage Custom Cabinets, a working island and a front banquette dining area, with floor-to-ceiling windows replacing the garden doors to overlook the verandah. The dining room was converted to a cozy TV den and the kitchen to a dining room.

Behind the original living room a back porch had accessed the rear yard. This area was incorporated into the home and was insulated to create a sitting room. It was extended to build a new rear entranceway and mudroom, with relocated basement and backyard access. The new room 

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Lifestyle 39

WHERE PAST AND FUTURE MEET ~ Continued from page 39

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CCR owners Arne and Peder Madsen welcomed the challenge of creating a functional and contemporary living space within the existing footprint. retained the outside brick wall of the house, adding a large window from the new dining room.

The basement was finished to include an office, bathroom and bedroom/man cave for the Welsh’s teenage son.

The second storey has three bedrooms, including the master suite, where a smaller bedroom was sacrificed to construct a walk-through closet and ensuite bathroom. A rear bedroom accesses an office built over the former back porch and boasts its own outside mini-deck.

This level also has a large closet converted to a convenient laundry facility.

An upper fourth floor, the previous attic, is now a comfy loft with a bow window at the front and skylights to provide additional light.

Despite the modern conversion, Suzanne Welsh says there were some pieces preserved from the original home.

An oversize pocket door of glass panels encloses the main-floor den as it once did the dining room.

And two stained glass windows at the top of the main staircase were restored by Sunrise Stained Glass Inc., which also replicated the design in a window for the front entrance door.

All windows in the home were replaced but the original styles, including mullion panes, have been copied to preserve the character.

To this end, the existing garage was also retained but given a new interior floor, roof and front awning. n

● FOR MORE INFORMATION

519.850.7830 www.mcadi.ca

40 Lifestyle November/December 2019

&

CCR BUILD AND REMODEL 2416 Sunningdale Road West 519-472-7461 • www.ccrbuilding.com

In step with the world

culturelife

PHOTO: CARL CHELCHOWSKI

Local dancer competes internationally

By Janis Wallace

M

ore than 20,000 young dancers from 62 countries will compete in the Dance World Cup in Rome from June 26 to July 4, 2020. One of them will be Londoner Sydney LeClair, of Jo Read Dance Studio. She is part of the Acro team representing Canada with World Performers Canada Inc. Dance team. “She’s had her eye on it for a couple of years,” says her mother Andrea LeClair.

The Dance World Cup is an all-genre competition for dancers aged four to 25. Those genres include classical ballet, modern, tap, acro, jazz, hiphop, commercial, and contemporary. Group dances are encouraged to provide an opportunity for more dancers.

Like any world-class competition, getting there takes talent, hard work, and commitment.

Sydney started dancing recreationally at age three; was part of the pre-competitive team a couple of years later, and became a full-time competitive dancer at age seven. She attended a summer camp at the National Circus School (Ecole nationale de cirque) in Montreal when she was nine. A typical week for the 14-year-old includes 15-20 hours of technical dance classes as well as competitive choreography. “It’s a time and athletic commitment,” says her mother.

When Sydney won a place on the national team, time management was a factor in accepting. “We had to take into consideration she was starting Grade 9. It’s an amazing opportunity.”

Sydney is one of 13 members of the Junior Acro Team (ages 14-17) as well as the small junior/senior acro group and an acro trio, each of which will compete in Italy. They receive choreography in the large team, smaller groups and a trio, each of which will compete in Italy.

In Rome, the team will meet dancers from different countries. “Dance is a large world but it’s also a small world,” says Andrea. “They’ll form friendships.”

An Olympic-style parade and ceremony kick off the Dance World Cup. “To go to Europe and watch all the dancers from different countries around the world is inspiring.”

There are masterclasses with international teachers and excursions to explore Rome.

Family, friends, and her home studio; Jo Read Dance; have all been very supportive and have all expressed what a great opportunity this is for her” n

Part of a 13-member acro team competing in the Dance World Cup in Rome this summer, 14-year-old Sydney LeClair has been dancing since she was three years old.

She takes 20 hours of classes each week and has been dancing competitively since she was seven years old.

● FOR MORE INFORMATION

PHOTO CREDIT: Jasmina Mesanovic, Studio 84 Photography

DANCE WORLD CUP • www.dwcworld.com/finals_2020 November/December 2019

Lifestyle 41

travelstyle

PORTO

The Douro River is the main attraction of Porto, Portugal. This shot was taken from the Dom Luis Bridge, one of six bridges spanning this waterway in the city. BELOW In the city square, the Porto sign is a popular gathering spot for tourists to take photos.

is the new Paris

Story and photos by Kathy Rumleski

PORTUGAL’S STAR IS RISING

T

here’s a little secret among travellers to Europe that’s starting to get out. While

the hot spots of Paris, Rome and Barcelona are still destinations where millions flock, the country of Portugal is gaining huge fans.

Doug Ellison, president and CEO of Ellison Travel & Tours, has visited the aforementioned

42 Lifestyle November/December 2019

cities and says places in Portugal, such as Porto, also have much to offer. With its Old World essence, yet contemporary conveniences, plus prices that are among the lowest in Europe, he calls his trip to Portugal in late summer an eye opener. “… I walked away saying, ‘People need to think about Portugal.’ It’s definitely

a place worth visiting.”

The magnificent Douro River is the main attraction. Taking a river cruise is a must, says Ellison. “What’s most spectacular about it is the scenery.” Its breathtaking vistas include row upon row of vineyards, planted meticulously on traditional steep terraces, and quaint villages among the hills. Wine has been produced in parts of the Douro Valley – a UNESCO World Heritage site – for more than 2,000 years.

Ellison also spent time in the Azores archipelago on the island of São Miguel. He compared it to Ireland for its lushness and green fields. Many of those fields, surprisingly have cows.

Everywhere on the island, you’ll see Holsteins, which produce more than 600 million litres of milk a year.

“The Azores are quite beautiful.”

Ellison says it’s only a matter of time before tourism in Portugal starts catching up to other European countries. “The people are delightful.

They're very nice. For those who have a fear of travel, it’s a comfortable destination.”

With such beauty and charm, Portugal also provides inspiration to artists. Ontario artist and painting instructor Kato Wake leads week-long creative holidays in Olhao, Portugal.

Her Play and Paint in Portugal excursions combine studio lessons with an exploration of the picturesque fishing town in the Algarve region.

“There’s so much inspiration there.

It’s really connected with nature,” she says. “We do language lessons, talk about the food, do a wine tasting, so people really get a sense of where they are at.”

Wake recalls her first visit to Portugal and says she fell in love with the people and their way of life. She calls it a gentle culture, combined with entrepreneurship. “I thought there was a lot of creativity.” Wake says its mix of rustic and contemporary creates a unique juxtaposition of beauty.

Beginners and experienced painters alike are welcome for Play and Paint weeks, she says. “In my classes, you go at your own speed. It’s a cozy, comfortable environment to create in.” Wake will be teaching in Olhao March 18 to 25 and March 25 to April 1, 2020. n ● FOR MORE INFORMATION ELLISON TRAVEL & TOURS LTD. 519-235-2000 • www.ellisontravel.com KATO WAKE – PLAY AND PAINT IN PORTUGAL www.katowake.com • katowake@gmail.com

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November/December 2019

Lifestyle 43

homestyle

A star feature of this large lottery home – 4,665 square feet of living space – is the soaring two-storey great room.

DREAMING BIG

MODERN WIZARDRY ENHANCES OLD-WORLD CHARM

By Ellen Ashton-Haiste

T

his fall’s two Dream Lottery homes, from Wastell Homes and Reis Design Build, highlight a combination of old-world charm and some of the latest advances in modern technology and design.

A joint venture of three hospital foundations, the lottery helps fund the latest technology, medical equipment and research studies that lead to breakthroughs at St. Joseph’s Health Care London, London Health

44 Lifestyle November/December 2019

Sciences Centre and Children’s Hospital at LHSC. “Dream Lottery proceeds help our hospitals provide specialized, complex and critical care during the more than 1.9 million patient visits they receive from London and other communities across our region each year,” says Scott Fortnum, president and CEO, Children’s Health Foundation. Since 1996, the lottery has raised more than $36 million (net).

Wastell’s “Magnolia Refined Rustic Dream Home” boasts an architectural

character inspired by a French country farmhouse aesthetic with cutting-edge modern conveniences, says Sue Wastell, co-owner of Wastell Homes with her husband, Doug. “From the moment you walk through the doors, the features of this charming home will capture you,” Wastell says. “It’s a precise blend of rustic charm with function and utility.”

A feature of this 4,665-square-foot home is a two-storey great room with a soaring floor-to-ceiling fireplace.

A second-storey loft showcases an

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT The Wastell-built home in Sunningdale features open-concept living with a large kitchen/ great room area.

• Its large master suite, with ensuite bathroom and walkin closet, stretches along one side of the house.

• Ideal for family living, it has four bedrooms.

interactive home gym, built into what looks like a full-length mirror but presenting a virtual trainer who guides users through a variety of workouts including yoga, Pilates, boxing and more.

The kitchen features a separate prep kitchen to keep cooking mess and odour from invading the main living area.

A main-level master suite with walk-in closet and ensuite bathroom stretches along one side of the house, while the upper level incorporates three additional bedrooms.

• With entertaining in mind, there is a prep kitchen off of the main kitchen to limit the amount of mess visible to guests, along with two eating areas: one at the island and another in the breakfast nook.

INSET The Magnolia Refined Rustic Dream Home melds a French country farmhouse aesthetic with cutting edge modern conveniences, according to Sue Wastell.

The “Highland Green Estates Dream Home,” from Reis, is a sprawling 4,130-square-foot single-storey home that “showcases the seamless transition between form and function – beautifully designed, exceptionally built,” says David Reis. “It fuses old world and traditional exterior design elements with the modern amenities found in today’s luxury homes,” he says. This includes the latest in smart home automation, plus designer finishes and custom millwork throughout.

The three-plus-one bedroom home features a luxurious master suite with boxed 10-foot ceilings, his-and-her walk-in closets and a spa-like ensuite bathroom with a soaker tub and glass shower with body sprays.

It also showcases a finished basement designed for family playtime. In addition to an additional bedroom and recreation room with a sleek linear fireplace, this level boasts a theatre room and wine room, plus bar and games areas.  November/December 2019

Lifestyle 45

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT Smart buyers will appreciate the smart-home features in this house by Reis Design Build.

• Custom mill work and designer finishes complement luxurious amenities like 10-foot ceilings in some rooms.

• Fusing old-world charm with modern conveniences, the Reisbuilt home features 4,130 square feet of living space.

• The Highland Green Estates Dream Home “showcases the seamless transition between form and function,” according to David Reis.

Interior design by Jillian Summers of Upstaging.

FOR MORE INFORMATION DREAM HOME LOTTERY • 866-319-9818 • www.dreamitwinit.ca WASTELL HOMES • 1895 Blue Heron Drive #5 • 519-850-0020 • www.wastell.ca REIS DESIGN BUILD • 519-636-7888 • www.reisdesignbuild.com

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46 Lifestyle November/December 2019

• Jay McKinnon Company Landscape Design • Progressive Countertops • Silestone • London Stair and Railing

• Eco Architectural Glass • Royal Building Supplies • Western Overhead Door • Builders Choice Air Systems • Designer Closets • Accents Home Furniture

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Lifestyle 4

yourstyle

FAST BREAK SPEED THE MORNING ROUTINE WITH PERMANENT MAKEUP

By Kathy Rumleski

TOP Permanent makeup doesn't wash off but it does fade with time and sun exposure, so using sunscreen is important. Another application may be needed in two to five years.

48 Lifestyle November/December 2019

Permanent makeup is more popular than ever as it can augment your natural beauty and is also a time saver.

It is applied by making micro insertions into the dermal layer of the skin using natural pigments that can provide colour for years.

Dr Moore.pdf

This fall, beauty clinicians say the main trend in permanent makeup is microblading for eyebrows. “My technique is enhancing what you have. (Brows) can get wimpy and sparse with age, so I just try to bring it back to that natural brow you had by enhancing (what is already there),” explains Shauna McKeag, medical aesthetician at Cumberland Laser Clinic. “It’s not tattooing. It’s putting ink into the skin with blades, making little hair strokes.”

Charlene Jones, permanent makeup specialist at Artistic Spa, recommends keeping the natural shape of your brows. “Eyebrows should frame your eyes and complement your features.

(Permanent makeup) shouldn’t overpower your face. It should enhance your features naturally,” she says.

Jones pencils out the shape of the brow for the client for approval before any work is done. “They always know exactly what they’re going to get before they get it,” she says.

She advises clients to bring along an eyebrow pencil with the colour they like. “Give the technician as much information as to what you want.”

However, she says a technician must understand how colour works with skin tone to ensure the end result is a natural look.

McKeag says while permanent makeup doesn’t wash off, another application will likely be needed in two to five years. The natural pigments will fade and just how fast that happens is different for everyone, she says. “Some people just hold colour better than others.”

The best way though to get the most staying power for your permanent makeup is to use sunscreen or stay out of the sun because the colour will fade faster, Jones says. “We always recommend after eyebrows are done to wear sunblock. Wearing SPF on the lips as well after they’re done will help to hold the pigment longer.”

Lip liner and eyeliner are also popular permanent makeup requests.

McKeag says clients keep their eyes closed during the eyeliner application.

Despite using a needle so close to the eye, she says it is perfectly safe as the needle has a guard on it. She says having the procedure done is easy and poses little risk. The needles used to implant the pigment into the skin are very tiny and although they don’t go nearly as deep into the skin as a regular tattoo needle, a topical ointment is 

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FAST BREAK ~ Continued from page 49 used for numbing and comfort.

Having permanent eyeliner injected doesn’t have to leave you with a bold look. There are different styles of application. “People who don’t wear eyeliner every day but want to get rid of that washed out look, can have a lash enhancement done,” McKeag says. “It’s just a little bit of colour in between the lashes, a little deeper into the lash line, where the liner is more above your lash line.”

She says lip liner is also about enhancing. “It’s to bring back your natural colour.”

After a permanent makeup application, it takes the skin about a week to heal from the procedure.

“You would not want to go to a big event right after,”McKeag says. She says to keep the treated area clean and moist, use some Vaseline for protection. McKeag uses Health Canada approved pigment, which is natural mineral, iron oxide base colorant, and needles are not reused.

“It’s very rare to see an infection.”

Another treatment McKeag offers is areola re-pigmentation for women that have had a mastectomy. She says it will create a realistic areola look after breast reconstruction by using a series of light and dark colours. “It’s almost like creating highlights and shadows to make it look natural.”

McKeag says one misconception about permanent makeup is that you cannot use regular makeup once you’ve had an application, but that’s simply not the case.

Adding some colour to the permanent makeup can create a great evening look. “If you did (permanent) brown eyeliner, you could put blue, green, purple, anything for the night and it will just kind of pop over top of it. It’s easy to enhance.” n

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www.dermeffects.ca • 519.472.8686 November/December 2019

Lifestyle 51

bestlife

The concierge experience Acura West delivers

TOP Paul Jennery, general manager.

By Ellen Ashton-Haiste

S

ince the birth of Acura Canada, in 1987, London’s Acura West has been marketing luxury vehicles to consumers across southwestern Ontario. The success of the family-owned dealership lies in the expertise of its staff members and their commitment to premium customer service, says general manager Paul Jennery.

He cites Acura Concierge, which is the automaker’s brand name for its customer satisfaction program. It operates at all levels, from sales and service to reception. This program has put the brand right behind Porsche and Lexus on the podium of J.D. Power, the global voice for consumer experience across more than a dozen industries.

At Acura West, this is the benchmark,

not just for its treatment of clientele but of staff as well, Jennery says. “I look after my staff as I do my customers.

My car wash attendants are just as important to me as my mechanics, salespeople and managers.” The attitude has paid off in loyalty, he says. “We have virtually no turnover.”

Acura West has more than 90 years of collective management experience.

Jennery has been with the dealership for 30 years. The service manager, parts manager and sales manager have been there 22, 25 and 15 years respectively. “The fact that my staff has hung their hats on Acura West as a career and dedicated themselves to looking after customers, I think speaks volumes about the establishment and how we run things,” he says.

Acura West offers a choice line-up of new SUVs and sedans, including the MDX seven-passenger luxury SUV, RDX mid-size luxury sport SUV, RLX flagship exclusive hybrid sedan, TLX sport sedan, ILX smaller gateway sedan with plenty of lux overtones, and, when available the much sought-after NSX hybrid supercar.

“We call it our halo car, our crowning achievement, right up with the Ferrari and Lamborghini, coming in at over a quarter-million dollars,” Jennery says.

They also have a selection of used cars and he notes they are selective in those choices.

“Across the gamut, there’s a level of conditioning and quality to our used cars, irrespective of the year and number of kilometres,” he says. “We have a very good reputation in our used cars.” n

● FOR MORE INFORMATION • ACURA WEST • 519-657-1557 • 759 Wonderland Road North • www.acurawest.ca 52 Lifestyle November/December 2019

bizlife

From vision to reality

Accents Home Furniture makes it happen

ABOVE Brad & Claire Jack.

By Ellen Ashton-Haiste

I

f you can imagine a living space, chances are that Accents Home Furniture can make it a reality.

“With the number of options of customizable furniture, and the accessories, that we have here, we can basically create any room,” says Claire Jack, co-owner of the business with her husband Brad. “We’re really a one-stop shop to pull all of that together.”

Accents works with regional companies that customize any piece of furniture, from dining room tables to sofas.

Their suppliers are able to build items from the ground up to fit the available space and desired style.

The store has three designers on staff, who work with clients to fine tune their visions and achieve the desired results.

And they’ll work to do that within the customer’s budget, offering highend, as well as more affordable, products, Jack says. “Our mantra is ‘we have the style that fits your budget’.”

Accents has three custom studios.

Featured brands include Bermex, specializing in high-quality wood casual and formal dining furniture; Amisco, designing and producing a wide range of residential furniture; and Palliser, offering custom pieces for every room in the house. “We’re experts in those brands. We have a lot of pieces on the floor, so people can get ideas and they all do custom work,” Jack says.

The store also carries the Voelkel brand that they introduced to the region in 2018. The company is known throughout Europe for its innovative

designs and multi-functional home furniture that consumers can adapt to create their ideal spaces.

A wide variety of furnishings including theatre seating for a special media room, plus accessories, such as accent pieces, wall décor, rugs and lighting - allow Accents’ designers to refurbish any room or a whole house, Jack says. The only items they don’t sell are appliances.

“I want people to be able to create the space they want. All homes are different and we want the end result to reflect their lifestyle,” she says. “We try to make it easy for them. We do all the searching. Some people enjoy the hunt but for others it’s overwhelming.” n

● FOR MORE INFORMATION • ACCENTS HOME FURNITURE • 519-474-7111 • 422 Fanshawe Park Road West, Unit 1 • www.accentshomefurniture.com November/December 2019

Lifestyle 53

bizlife

Success gems

TOP LEFT TO RIGHT Jennifer Vecchio, Angelina Buckareff, Brittany Mackay, Loretta Gordon-Bock, Duane Bock, Rosanne Gardiner, Julia Douglas, Dara Johnston

Gordons Gold shines

By Ellen Ashton-Haiste

F

or the past 36 years, Gordons Gold Jewellers has prospered as an independent family business in London, while building a premier reputation within the jewellery industry.

Loretta Gordon-Bock, secondgeneration co-owner with her husband, Duane Bock, attributes that success to a commitment to customer service, expertise and professional development.

“We carry some of the most soughtafter jewellery and gemstone brands in the world, right here in London Ontario,” says Gordon-Bock.

This includes being one of just 600 retailers word-wide to sell the Hearts On Fire diamond, reputed to be the world’s most perfectly cut diamond.

“It’s the diamond our customers ask for by name,” Gordon-Bock says. “It sparkles and is more brilliant than any other diamond. It’s the one that all

other diamonds are compared to.”

Gordons Gold is a member of the exclusive American Gem Society (AGS), an organization which focuses on consumer protection as well as ethics and continued education within the industry. Just one in 20 jewellers meets the membership criteria, which include a peer-reviewed application process and annual educational recertification.

Bock and Gordon-Bock, are GIA (Gemological Institute of America) alumni. The non-profit institute is dedicated to research and education in gemology and jewellery arts, protecting buyers and sellers by setting and maintaining standards to evaluate gemstone quality.

Gordons Gold’s commitment to expertise extends to its staff. Four employees have been with the business between 10 and 20 years each, con-

stituting an accumulated 65 years of experience, says Gordon-Bock.

Rosanne Gardiner, inventory manager, has been with the store for nearly 20 years, and Dara Johnston, who assists with inventory management, has 15 years with the business.

Gordon-Bock calls Brittany Mackay, a 20-year staffer, their “AGS title holder.” She is regularly recertified by the society and responsible for many aspects of operating the store. Mckay is also a GIA alumnus.

Jennifer Vecchio, with more than 10 years at Gordons Gold, is the expert goldsmith and stone setter. She presides over the store’s four goldsmith benches, where jewellery is custom-made and repaired. “You can buy jewellery anywhere but the people behind the counter, with their knowledge and commitment to customers, definitely set our store apart,” Gordon-Bock says. n

● FOR MORE INFORMATION • GORDONS GOLD JEWELLERS • 519-473-3988 • 760 Hyde Park Road • www.gordonsgold.ca 54 Lifestyle November/December 2019

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