Living Luxe Magazine - Winter 24 • VOL. 06 - ISSUE 06

How one of the world’s most sought-after actors parlayed talent, fashion sense and hard work into a stellar career

DESIGN ENVY

Join design luminaries and luxury brands for an unforgettable celebration of beauty, style and innovation at the third annual Living Luxe Design Show

ELEVATED ENTERTAINING

A homey bungalow gets a makeover by Terra Firma Design, transforming it into a bright hosting haven

LIVING LUXE DESIGN SHOW

AN EPIC SPACE SHOWCASING THE LATEST DESIGNS AND INNOVATIONS IN THE INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR DESIGN SPACE MIXED WITH A FASHION FLAIR.

ARE YOU READY FOR NEXT YEAR’S SHOW? APRIL 24-27, 2025 TORONTO CONGRESS CENTRE, NORTH

Whispers from Tibet

Heritage collection featuring original designs by Tibetan artists...

Inspired by Tibet’s rich cultural heritage, these hand-knotted rugs feature intricate designs that capture the region’s profound ties to nature, spirituality, and symbolism. By reinterpreting sacred motifs such as the endless knot and picturesque landscapes, and utilizing traditional Tibetan weaving methods, each handcrafted rug stands as a stunning tribute to both artistry and cultural tradition.

Memories

Transcendence

Wings of Joy

10 Marmac Dr., Etobicoke, ON M9W 1E6

To experience the Collections visit one of our exclusive showrooms

DOWNSVIEW KITCHENS GTA 2635 Rena Road, Mississauga, ON (905) 677-9354 www.downsviewkitchens.com YORKVILLE DESIGN CENTRE 87 Avenue Road, Toronto, ON (416) 922-6620 www.yorkvilledesigncentre.ca

DOWNSVIEW KITCHENS 2635 Rena Road, Mississauga, Ontario The Downsview cabinetry collection is custom crafted in North America

OUR GLOBAL LUXURY ADVISORS ARE SPREADING JOY AND CHEER DURING THE HOLIDAY SEASON, WITH LOVE. Canada’s Leading Luxury Real Estate Firm

Dr. Philip Solomon OTOLARYNGOLOGISTHEAD & NECK SURGEON PRACTICING IN FACIAL PLASTIC SURGERY

The Art Of Surgery

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RUSTIC CHIC

What’s one thing you look forward to every winter?

ROSIE PRATA

WRITER

“I love decorating for the holidays and believe that when it comes to twinkly lights and tinsel, more is more.”

MATINA CHASIOTI

OWNER AND OPERATOR OF EPAL NORTH AMERICA LTD.

“Spring to come!”

CARMINE MALATESTA

PRESIDENT AND CEO OF MOONSHOT AUTOMATION

“Winter brings me the comfort of being indoors with a good meal and a warm drink. I enjoy the quiet beauty of the snow and the feeling of sitting by the fire. But when the cold starts to get old, a trip south with my family hits the spot.”

CHARLOTTE BUSHNELL-BOATES

WRITER

“There’s something special about a winter sunrise—the combination of pastel tones is nothing short of striking. And, with the shorter days, it’s even easier to catch them.”

PUBLISHING

PUBLISHER

Jennifer Lipkowitz

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER

Anthony Sirianni

ASSISTANT TO THE PUBLISHER

Hana Rakovski

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT

Zoë Teufel

DIGITAL SPECIALIST

Eugene Leiderman

VIDEOGRAPHER Frazier de Mesa

CONTRIBUTORS

Charlotte Bushnell-Boates, Stephanie Dyriw, Adriana Ermter, Julie Gedeon, Nancie Heiber, Alyssa Hirose, Susan Kelly, Natasha Koifman, Carmine Malatesta, Tracey MacKenzie, Mark Naimer, Bekky O’Neil, Rosie Prata, Susan Semenak, Eve Thomas, Dr. Philip Solomon, Fabián Waintal

CREATIVE

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Jennifer Douglas

EDITORIAL

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Elia Essen

COPY EDITOR

Stephanie Whittaker

PROOFREADER

Phillipa Rispin

LIFESTYLE EDITOR

Jeanne Beker

Kindness at Endures

These past few weeks have been filled with chaos, with everything seeming to happen at once. In moments when I feel overwhelmed, I’ve found comfort in the support and warmth of the community around me—a constant reminder of the kindness that endures through the challenges of these colder months.

This season, I’ve been especially grateful for the opportunity to move our magazine into a new office and expand our team in ways I’ve always dreamed of. On a personal note, I’ve also been in the process of settling into a new home. Although the timing wasn’t ideal, the encouragement of my team, friends, clients and family has made a tremendous difference. And I have to say, having friends in the design world certainly comes in handy when creating new spaces!

Beyond my own experiences, I’ve spent time engaging with our community through various events across the city. We were honoured to be the exclusive media sponsor of Canaroma’s 45th Anniversary—a significant milestone! Additionally, we have supported various charitable causes, including sponsoring such events as the Arthritis Fire Ball and A Moving Affair. These causes are so important for our city and the people they serve, and I highly recommend everyone learn more and get involved. We also proudly served as a media sponsor for Fashion Art Toronto, which showcases the vibrant creativity of the city’s designers. This year, we also look forward to supporting and attending the amazing organization Canadian Foundation For AIDS Research (CANFAR) event.

Speaking of support, we have some exciting announcements on the horizon! On December 6, we’ll host our annual Living Luxe Party to celebrate our remarkable clients and exhibitors who work tirelessly throughout the year. This event also kicks off the lead-up to our Living Luxe Awards Show on April 26 at Liberty Grand. Award submissions are now open, and we encourage everyone to nominate exceptional designers, architects, builders and more at livingluxedesignshow.ca. Each year, this event feels like the Oscars of our industry, providing a wonderful opportunity to connect with so many talented people in our city. In January, stay tuned for an exciting addition to the Living Luxe Design Show. I can’t wait for you to see what’s coming.

Finally, I hope you noticed our cover star for this issue: Zendaya. We are excited about sharing her cover story with you.

We want to wish all our clients, families, supporters and friends a happy and healthy holiday and new year.

Jennifer Lipkowitz, Publisher

A Foundation Of Love

Dear Readers,

What does family mean to you? To me, family is warmth. It’s reassurance. It’s the knowledge that, come what may, you won’t be alone; that even when times get dark, you have someone with whom to share a smile and whatever bit of light you can offer one another. Family is loving so deeply and completely that you don’t mind giving things up—the last cookie, the best seat on the couch, your pride—and it’s arguing and being at your worst every now and then, knowing it won’t scare them off. Family can take different forms: sometimes it’s through blood, other times it’s forged with meaningful friendships or a furry, four-legged companion, but it’s always something to be cherished.

I feel fortunate to be surrounded by loved ones this holiday season. Aunts and uncles, cousins and grandparents and lots of new babies will descend upon my mother’s lovingly decorated house, bringing delicious dishes my family has been preparing for decades. To me, it’s the embodiment of holiday cheer.

Yet, I’ll carry in my heart those who are absent. Year by year, through the joy of an expanding family, there’s also the bittersweet sting of being unable to be everywhere at once. Pieces of my heart are now scattered across the world, spanning thousands of kilometres and country lines. Life goes on, but the ache of distance is ever-present, especially during the holidays when no amount of “I miss you” texts and FaceTime calls seem to make the miles feel any less wide. Still, it’s a blessing to have someone to miss, and even in time spent apart, events and holidays unattended and distances traversed, family and the love that it brings perseveres.

In this issue of our magazine—our very own labour of love—we settle in for a magical winter staycation at Toronto’s Hotel X, answer all your questions on home automation with the experts at Moonshot Automation, relive the most glamorous events of the season, and hear from some of the most esteemed makers and suppliers in the GTA, including Deco-Tile, Decorium and Vogt Industries. We explore exemplary residential projects, from a rustic chic log home in Collingwood listed with The Agency to a palatial mansion in Princess Anne Manor currently on the market with Hammond International Properties, immerse ourselves in Darlene Janeiro’s colourful new Oakville studio and showroom and get a sneak peek of all the exciting things in store at the 2025 Living Luxe Design Show this April. We are particularly thrilled to have our cover graced by the talented star Zendaya, who has launched herself from Disney Channel beginnings to leading roles that have earned her a slew of awards.

In this busy time, I invite you to take a moment to slow down, remember the things that really matter and enjoy immersing yourself in the pages of Living Luxe.

Wishing a merry and bright holiday season to you and your family.

Elia Essen Editor-in-Chief

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CHOCOLATE CREATIONS

WHAT’S NEW

Nothing says Christmas like a box of artisanal chocolates. Hand-crafted by master chocolatier JeanMarie Auboine, this 40-piece assortment of premium milk, dark and white chocolates could make the Sugar Plum Fairy swoon. Made without preservatives or artificial ingredients, these colourful treats are a tasty addition to any Christmas table. For an even sweeter delight, there’s the chocolate Christmas tree storybook with LED lights that includes 25 artisanal chocolate bulbs. www.jmauboinechocolates.com

By Tracey MacKenzie

TRI-COLOUR TOTE

Perfect for travelling, Loewe’s stunning tricolour Puzzle Fold tote stands out in a crowd and is superbly practical. Made of calfskin and suede, this lightweight tote has architectural panels that easily fold down into a square. www.loewe.com

HAND-STRUNG HAPPINESS

This limited-edition Holt Renfrew Happy Face Bracelet by Lisa

PICTURE PERFECT

Hourglass Cosmetics has once again created three limited-edition Ambient Lighting Edit Unlocked palettes, featuring artwork by Katie Scott. The six-shade palettes—Evil Eye, Dragon and Lotus Flower—are designed to enhance and brighten your complexion. Vegan and cruelty-free, these products are also free of parabens, phthalates and sulfates. Hourglass will donate 5 per cent of net profits from the collection to the Nonhuman Rights Project. www.sephora.com

GEOMETRIC GLASS

Available in a variety of heights and sizes, these versatile colour-blocked geometric candlestick holders will make a statement wherever they’re placed. Use two identical ones for a traditional look or combine various shapes to form an eye-catching display or centrepiece. www.anthropologie.com

PHOTOS:

NKPR MARKET TRENDS

Natasha Koifman President, NKPR

SEASON OF CELEBRATIONS

Winter wonder, festive gifting and sustainable innovations to start the new year on the right foot.

By Natasha Koifman

I love wintertime in Canada. The season carries a special kind of magic that brings people together. Whether it’s gathering around the fireplace with loved ones, exchanging thoughtful gifts or preparing for a fresh start in the new year, this time of year is all about connection and celebration. Bloor-Yorkville transforms into a festive wonderland during the holiday season—a must-visit destination for anyone embracing the spirit of the season. Or take the children to meet Santa Claus at Bayview Village while you get some holiday shopping done. For unique gift ideas, Aveda and Altuzarra’s limitededition capsule collection will dazzle your friends, while the SMEG and OVO collaboration will add flair to any kitchen (even Drake’s!). And if you’re looking to give the ultimate gift—maybe even to yourself—Old Mill Cadillac is showcasing the latest 2025 GMC Hummer EV.

Let’s dive into these must-have trends for winter 2024, which will inspire you to embrace the season’s beauty surrounded by family, friends and a sense of renewal.

If you have a product you would like to submit for consideration in our Market Trends roundup, please DM Natasha on Instagram at @natashankpr.

AVEDA X ALTUZARRA

This winter, elevate your gifting game with the Aveda x Altuzarra Holiday Collection. Aveda, known for its plant-powered, high-performance products, has teamed up with luxury fashion house Altuzarra to create a collection that celebrates beauty and nature. This limited-edition collaboration includes Aveda’s most-loved hair, scalp and body care gift sets, wrapped in sustainable packaging featuring stunning botanical motifs. With best-selling products from lines including botanical repair™ and nutriplenish™, these sets offer luxurious pampering while staying true to Aveda’s eco-friendly ethos. Perfect for those who appreciate both style and sustainability, this collection will make your holiday gifting truly special.

Available in Aveda stores, partner salons, specialty retailers and online. aveda.ca

BLOOR-YORKVILLE HOLIDAY DESTINATION

The holiday season comes alive in the Bloor-Yorkville area during the highly anticipated Holiday Magic event. This annual celebration transforms the Village of Yorkville Park into a winter wonderland, with dazzling lights and festive decor that will enchant visitors through to December 31. After the iconic Flick the Switch Lighting Ceremony, the neighbourhood becomes a vibrant display of holiday spirit. Also, from December 4 to 8, Fleurs de Villes NOËL returns with more than 30 enchanting floral displays showcasing the creative talents of Toronto’s top florists. bloor-yorkville.com

SMEG x OVO

What’s Drake gifting his friends for the holidays? We can’t be sure, but it very well could be the new collab from SMEG Canada and OVO. SMEG, the iconic Italian appliance brand, has partnered with Toronto-based October’s Very Own (OVO) to create a collection of small appliances with unmistakable urban flair. Featuring OVO’s signature owl logo, this limited-edition line includes an electric kettle, a two-slice toaster and the FAB5 mini fridge, available in sleek black or white with chrome and gold accents. These statement-making appliances unite the best of SMEG’s retro design with OVO’s modern streetwear aesthetic, making them a memorable and chic gift. smegshop.ca

SANTA CLAUS AT BAYVIEW VILLAGE

Toronto’s favourite Santa is back, making Bayview Village a must-visit for families this holiday season. Santa’s brand-new, custom-built home in BV’s Centre Court is the perfect setting for memorable photos and family fun. Photo packages start at $30, and appointments can be booked online, with walk-ins available on a first-come, first-served basis. Plus, with new kid-friendly stores like Moda Kids, Blanchou, and Teter Warm now open, Bayview Village promises the ultimate family day out. Enjoy complimentary parking and make it a festive day of shopping, dining and holiday cheer.

bayviewvillageshops.com

OLD MILL CADILLAC AND GMC HUMMER EV

Is it time for the big red bow? The all-electric GMC Hummer EV may not fit in a stocking, but it will make tracks anywhere else! With incredible power, extended driving range and off-road capabilities, this SUV is built for winter exploration. Such features as CrabWalk mode and Adaptive Air Ride Suspension allow you to tackle tough terrain with ease, while the high-tech interior ensures a luxurious driving experience. Old Mill Cadillac takes pride in delivering exceptional customer service and a premium car-buying experience. Whether you’re navigating snowy roads or embarking on a new adventure, the team at Old Mill is ready to serve you. oldmillgm.ca

WHAT’S IN & WHAT’S OUT

As a new year approaches, cosmetic surgery trends are shi ing toward understated transformations that emphasize natural, agedefying beauty.

By Dr. Philip Solomon & Nancie Heiber

In the ever-evolving world of cosmetic surgery, trends are constantly coming and going. In his two decades of experience, Dr. Philip Solomon has seen it all, from stylized noses to “pillow face.” So, what are the current trends in cosmetic surgery and what will be the next big thing? What’s here to stay and what will be phased out? Dr. Philip Solomon MD, FRCSC, Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgeon, practising Facial Plastic Surgery in Toronto, discusses what’s popular and what he thinks we will see more of in 2025.

Dr. Philip Solomon MD, FRCSC

Living Luxe Magazine (LL): In every industry, there are always trends. What do you think were the most popular trends in cosmetic surgery in 2024 and what can we expect for the coming year?

Dr. Philip Solomon (PS): When it comes to trends in cosmetic aesthetics, achieving a “natural result” was the overriding trend for 2024. Gone are the days when people wanted to look as though they’d had cosmetic surgery; now, they want to age flawlessly and naturally. While more people are open to sharing their experience with cosmetic surgery, they certainly don’t want to look as if they’ve been operated on.

In my practice, nose jobs have always been popular, but nasal shape preferences have changed over the years. Thirty years ago, people wanted a very stylized nose that was a dramatic contrast to what they had, which can look unnatural. While we still see patients looking for a petite “celebrity-style nose,” we do our best to educate them about the risks, including breathing complications. Nowadays, more people are trending toward a timeless nasal shape and are seeking preservation rhinoplasty, which aims to retain as much of the existing structure as possible with less compromise to the nasal tissue and a more natural result.

Trends in the anti-aging category are two-fold. In the non-surgical category, dermal filler has taken a bad rap this year for being overused, creating what’s known as pillow face, an unnatural, puffylooking appearance. However, when used appropriately, dermal filler, and semi-permanent filler, can be a great tool for effectively addressing aging concerns. Bio-stimulators—an injectable product that works over time to stimulate collagen, which improves skin quality and adds subtle volume—have also taken some of the market share this year.

Let’s talk surgery. Facelifts are certainly not new to cosmetic surgery. However, more people are seeking facelift surgery at a younger age. Our core facelift demographic is now a decade younger than it was even a few years ago. Most people seeking facelift surgery are in their late 40s to mid-50s and are choosing to tackle aging concerns at the onset.

LL: Interesting! So what types of facelifts are trending now?

PS: There are two categories of facelift patients. For the younger demographic who want minimal scarring, we recommend the mini facelift with a shorter scar along the hairline and inner ear or the endoscopic mid-facelift with scars hidden in the hair. The other category is those seeking dramatic changes, like a chiselled jawline and sculpted neck shape. Those patients are treated with the deep plane face and neck lift technique.

This coming year, we expect to see an increase in patients who

want a full rejuvenation; that includes brow positioning and eyelid rejuvenation in addition to the lower face and neck lift. We are finding fewer people want to cut corners on their appearance and instead opt for a comprehensive revitalization of their appearance.

LL: What trends do you see phasing out?

PS: The mindset that bigger, or more, is better has definitely shifted. Over-plumped lips, frozen or overly smoothed expressions, cookiecutter or overly sculpted noses and excessive and extreme facelifts, I believe, are behind us. Conversely, when it comes to a comprehensive surgery, it’s important that patients not take shortcuts when doing surgery. Trust your surgeon when it comes to his assessment of what is required to achieve your goals. Shortcuts don’t always deliver longlasting results or patient satisfaction.

LL: When should people follow trends when it comes to cosmetics and when should they stick with what’s timeless?

PS: Natural beauty is timeless. I believe we have gone around the globe, so to speak, exploring the world of cosmetic aesthetics and what it has to offer, and we have circled back to natural results being most attractive and now preferred. How we get those natural results is the key. And it’s imperative to choose a surgeon whose goals align with your own.

Dr. Philip Solomon MD, FRCSC

Jennifer Lipkowitz Publisher

RADIANT GLAM

For those unafraid to sparkle, jewellery designer Rita Tesolin cra s bold and bedazzled pieces from her Toronto studio. The talented aesthete’s creations have adorned stars including Taylor Swi , Nelly Furtado, Coco Rocha and Sheryl Crow—but we think everyone could use a little more Rita Tesolin glam this season.

The

LEFT: The Cadence Crystal Necklace/Body Piece is a oneof-a-kind full piece of jewellery handcrafted with vintage metals, crystal flowers, butterflies and charms. This wearable work of art is $2,450 and is paired here with the matching Cadence Glasses (price available upon request).

LEFT: Golden Opulence is a glittering, handembellished purse, crafted with exclusive Swarovski and Austrian crystals on a radiant gold base. Priced at $2,450, it embodies timeless luxury and elegance.

LEFT: Midnight is a unique unopened crystal head vodka bottle adorned with Swarovski and Austrian crystals, metal and genuine black tourmaline. This striking design is $4,950.

and

LEFT: This 2.5-foot by two-foot commissioned art piece titled Warrior is adorned with genuine black tourmaline, pewter, silver metals and Swarovski crystals, with striking emerald Swarovski crystal eyes.

is paired here with Mari Green crystal earrings ($265).

These exclusive Swarovski and Austrian crystal brooches feature cascading clear crystals and silver and pewter chains for a versatile and stylish addition to coats, jackets or denim. Prices vary from $125 to $475.

Necklace features crystals. and Swarovski crystals, angels is topped with a

LEFT: For Celestial, a sky blue celestite geode used to clear negative energy, enhance peace and connect with angels is topped with a butterfly adorned with matching Swarovski

LEFT: The Hidden Gems Purse (shown here in black and silver) is hand-embellished with Austrian and Swarovski crystals, showcasing the beauty of Mother Nature’s creations. Priced at $2,450.

Rita Tesolin is a renowned Toronto jewellery designer known for bold, one-of-a-kind statement accessories. Launching her career in 2003, she has been called the Stone Angel and the Costume Queen. She began designing jewellery when she was just 10 years old, going on to practise law for a number of years before trading the courtroom for the runway. Now, she designs bold and dazzling pieces, working closely with clients to accommodate a variety of budgets. Tesolin has collaborated with many fashion designers, and her pieces have appeared in numerous editorials and on Canadian and American celebrities and TV hostesses. Tesolin also collaborates with charities, creates exclusive home decor and art pieces and works with clients on commissioned designs.

LEFT: This MariRose Bouquet Collar Crystal Necklace features fuchsia and lime green faceted Swarovski and Austrian crystals. The stunning creation, sold at $1,175,

LEFT:

Signature Wool Coat in Marigold, made of Italian cashmere

virgin wool, wraps you in warmth for cooler days, with sophisticated tailoring and a timeless approach.

TOWERS WITH A VIEW

The resort-like residences at Yonge City Square offer all the amenities of a luxury vacation.

By Susan Semenak

If you have ever stayed in a luxury resort with cabanas and fire pits clustered around a pool and glamorous suites opening onto oversized balconies with sweeping vistas and thought, “I could live here,” the Gupta Group just might have the condo for you. Yonge City Square Residences is the award-winning hotel and residential real estate firm’s latest venture. Rising 32 and 14 storeys high, its two stunning towers are the latest addition to the Yonge Street and York Mills Road

skyline. When completed, they’ll include 704 suites, ranging from 500 to 2,000 square feet, 21,000 square feet of medical offices and more than 15,000 square feet of retail space for a resort-like experience in a modern urban setting.

The development is on three acres surrounded by lush green landscapes: Don Valley Golf Course to the north, the Don River to the west and the large lots of Hoggs Hollow’s manicured homes to the east. “The views in all directions are spectacular,” says Dr. Steve Gupta, the Gupta Group’s founder and executive chairman. “And the access to green spaces, walking trails and nature is unparalleled.”

While it’s close to Yorkdale and Fairview shopping malls and Bayview Village, Yonge City Square is also on a subway line (it boasts its own direct, built-in connection to the York Mills subway station), making

downtown dining or a ballgame just 20 minutes away. “At a time when condo developments are moving farther and farther out of the city, Yonge City Square offers an unparalleled blend of city living, transit convenience and resort-like luxury,” Gupta says. “The complex sits at the hub of all Toronto has to offer.”

The building—designed by Arcadis architectural firm—takes its cues from the contrasting environments surrounding the property, which straddles an urban environment and a protected conservation area. It steers clear of the generic glass tower look, instead using precast concrete and dark metals punctuated by dramatic bay windows and balconies that move back in steps.

The units’ interiors are no less stunning, with nine- and 10-foot-high ceilings and quartz bathrooms and kitchens in a choice of light, medium or dark finishes. Gupta says his company’s signature commitment to upscale quality and resort-like living is echoed in Yonge City Square’s ample shared amenities, which include an outdoor swimming pool, rooftop terrace, a spacious gym with a separate yoga room and golf simulator pods. For those keen to host, there will be a fully-equipped kitchen available for dinner parties, as well as a party room for larger gatherings. In addition, there will be a children’s playroom and a mini golf course.

Those amenities, he says, serve as extended living spaces. “Just because you have downsized from a large home to a condo where space is limited doesn’t mean you can’t hire a private chef and host a dinner party for 12 or 15 people.” Construction begins this December, and the project is expected to be completed in the fall of 2028.

GIVING LIFE

Philanthropist

Stephanie Dyriw uses her expertise in advertising and public relations to give back to a cause that is close to her heart with Great Actions Leave A Mark.

By Stephanie Dyriw

Philanthropy often begins with a deeply personal moment, and for me, it was my journey as a living liver donor for my son. In November 2021, everything changed when my son was diagnosed with sudden liver failure at SickKids Hospital. The fear and uncertainty were overwhelming, but in that moment, I knew I had to step forward. Becoming his living donor was the only choice. The amazing care we received from the Centre of Living Donation and Transplant teams at SickKids and the Ajmera Transplant Centre at University Health Network went beyond just medical expertise. They were swift, thorough and compassionate, guiding us through every step with unwavering support. It was their commitment to both my son and me that made all the difference.

We recovered quickly, but the experience left us forever changed. It opened my eyes to the crucial need for more education and advocacy around living organ donation. These hospitals, with their specialized programs, don’t just save lives—they empower families like ours to find hope in the darkest of times.

We were inspired by our journey and the countless other stories we heard along the way to create the Great Actions Leave a Mark campaign. Together with the Centre for Living Organ Donation and the Ajmera Transplant Centre, we knew we had to create something that would not only raise awareness but inspire action. Whether

through becoming a living donor, registering as a deceased donor or simply sharing the importance of organ donation, each step can save a life.

The outcome of our efforts has been profound. The Great Actions Leave a Mark campaign brought together living donors, media, recipients, healthcare professionals and supporters from across Canada to create a movement that continues to grow, and we’ve seen an astonishing increase in awareness and engagement. But it’s the stories that matter most—the lives transformed, the hope renewed and the families, such as mine, who have been given a second chance.

For us at the Yonge + Eist Agency, its partners, SickKids and the Ajmera Transplant Centre, this work is about building lasting partnerships with organizations that make a difference because together, we can do so much more.

To the readers of Living Luxe Magazine, I urge you to explore causes that move you and to take meaningful action. Whether that entails becoming an organ donor, volunteering or sharing information, every effort has the power to change lives. Let’s leave a lasting mark on the world, a mark that will inspire others to do the same.

Stephanie Dyriw is the co-founder of the Yonge + Eist Agency, an international advertising and public relations firm.

LEFT TO RIGHT: Dr. Deepali Kumar, Candice Coughlan, Stephanie Dyriw, Dr. Nazia Selzner, Joanne Kearney and (centre) John Patrick O’Connor

STRONG FOUNDATIONS

With nearly 30 years in business, Deco-Tile merges European style and family values to adorn some of Toronto’s most esteemed restaurants.

By Bekky O’Neil

In its nearly 30 years in business, Toronto tile importer Deco-Tile has grown from a direct-to-customer approach to collaborations with designers and, finally, to the realm of wholesale. But the heart of Deco-Tile—its family values— still beats strong.

Deco-Tile president John Di Fonzo founded the company in 1995, and now brother-sister duo Zachary and Victoria Di Fonzo have joined the family business. “We have a very good relationship with all of our suppliers,” says Zachary Di Fonzo, who is now account executive. At a company driven by personal connections built over three decades, it’s easy to see why.

Importing tiles from Italy and Spain, Deco-Tile focuses on meaningful

PHOTOGRAPHY

BY SHAWN TALBOT

collaborations with designers. “We see ourselves as design-driven, importing our products more for the designer,” Zachary says. Catering to the creative visions and needs of designers, Deco-Tile is preparing to launch a new designer-focused website where clients will be able to pursue their wide-ranging offerings with ease.

That doesn’t mean that the company’s wares are inaccessible to the rest of the public, though. Deco-Tile has two showrooms—one in Toronto and a new addition in Oakville—both of which are collaborations with Muti Kitchen and Bath. “This kind of one-stop shop is very popular in Europe, where you go into one place, and you

buy tiles, vanities, plumbing, and kitchen,” Zachary says. “In North America, it’s all kind of separated, so we brought that European flavour here.”

While their father focused on importing new materials for the business, the younger Di Fonzos have prioritized building relationships with designers and have developed a passion for creative projects. Now, they have a new area of expertise: restaurants. From King and Portland to Queen West, many of Toronto’s trendiest eateries have walls and floors adorned with original Deco-Tile designs. “I’ll import products specifically for that restaurant so it’s

“WE SEE OURSELVES AS DESIGN-DRIVEN, IMPORTING OUR PRODUCTS MORE FOR THE DESIGNER.”

not necessarily something that’s in my showroom,” Zachary says.

The company works alongside notable design agencies, including Futurestudio, Navigate Design and Metronome. Designers send inspiration or images of what they want for their spaces, and the Deco-Tile team works to translate them into reality. Their tiles adorn Café Renée, Bar Prima, Piano Piano and Balzac’s Coffee Roasters, among many other restaurants across the city. The company even tiled New York’s Yankee Stadium.

Right now, Victoria and Zachary agree that the trends in tiles are all about texture, from glossy ceramic squares to natural stone mosaics. When it comes to restaurant design, colour has become very important, while muted tones are taking over the retail world. “A few years ago, everything was grey, and right now, it’s going more creams and beiges and texture,” Zachary says.

As Deco-Tile moves into the world of wholesaling, its goods are now available in more than 40 stores across central Ontario. The pair say it has been rewarding to give smaller communities access to these products. “We’re really focused on our customer service and the experience, whether it be the designer or the random Mr. Jones off the street,” Zachary says.

LEFT TO RIGHT: JOHN DI FONZO, VICTORIA DI FONZO AND ZACHARY DI FONZO

RUGGED COMFORTS

From gym rubber to cozy area rugs, Allan Rug Company is ready to respond to a gamut of homeowner flooring needs.

By Julie Gedeon

New flooring, wall-to-wall carpeting, stair runners or just a comfy, cozy area rug are easy ways to make a home warm and welcoming for the holidays and throughout the chilly winter months. A visit to the Allan Rug Company or a home consultation with its textile experts ensures the process is off to a good start.

Allan Rug Company has been helping homeowners with flooring and carpeting selections in the GTHA for more than 65 years. “Whatever you need, we can either get it for you and/or customize what you’d like to your requirements,” says Alan Montekio, director of Allan Rug Company and son of the store’s founder, Eli Montekio.

New to the storied store’s lineup is an exciting new line of area rugs from Ashley Stark Home. Ashley Stark fell in love with design while spending time in her grandparents’ carpet and textile company, STARK, where she is now creative director. With Ashley Stark Home, she delves into a passion for rugs, creating contemporary designs that are as much about texture as they are colour and patterns. “All the Ashley Stark Home rugs are hand-knotted wool at a range of price points,” Montekio says. “They also come in a range of six-by-nine to 10-by-14 sizes and 80 different patterns.” The contemporary designs run the gamut from abstract lines to spirals to wavy patterns. Unlike traditional Persian or Moroccan rugs, they don’t tend to have a central motif, and the patterns are more fluid. The wool provides a varying texture depending on its weave and thickness.

For households with pets, Montekio recommends the durable Karastan SmartStrand or Kashmere Nylon carpeting that comes with a lifelong pet warranty. “This highly durable nylon-based carpeting won’t become stained from pet mishaps the way that wool, for

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example, can be permanently discoloured from a dog or cat’s stomach acids,” Montekio explains. “The threads of these rugs are also much less likely to be pulled by your pet’s claws.”

Layering multiple rugs is becoming an increasingly popular way to add warmth and coziness to a space, but it won’t work with just any carpets. “Some people do layer this carpeting for a special effect, but if they do so, the first carpet has to be quite thin and flat with the one over it being thicker or more textured,” Montekio advises. “We can help our clients make those selections, just as we can easily customize a client’s choice of carpeting into an area rug to fit a particular space or have a specific shape.”

But Allan Rug’s offerings don’t stop at rugs. For home gyms, the company also has durable rubber tiles that prevent flooring damage from workout equipment, and there are even options designed to contain the mess of snow- and salt-covered boots within a foyer during the winter months.

Whatever the individual’s flooring calls for, Allan Rug Company applies its over six decades of experience and family-oriented service to find a solution, earning

AUTOMATION ENVY

What if we told you there is a way to make your life easier at the push of a button?

As we move toward a future in which technology is seamlessly woven into our daily lives, home automation is redefining comfort and convenience. We chatted with Carmine Malatesta, president and CEO of Moonshot Automation, to learn more about how to use home automation technology to elevate and simplify your life.

Living Luxe Magazine (LL): Please start by explaining what home automation is.

Carmine Malatesta (CM): Home automation is about creating a seamless, personalized experience that integrates cutting-edge technology with effortless control. Imagine arriving home after a long day. As you step through the door, your environment instantly adapts to welcome you. The lights illuminate your

path, your favourite songs begin to play, and the blinds draw to let in just the right amount of light. You settle in to unwind in your home theatre, where audio and video create an immersive cinematic experience. When it’s time to retire for the night, with just one tap before bed, the lights turn off, the audio fades away and the security system is instantly activated for your safety.

LL: What do you wish more people knew about home automation?

CM: I wish more people understood just how effortless and transformative home automation can be. The ease of use is truly remarkable: With just a few taps on your smartphone, a touch screen or voice commands, you can control everything from lighting and temperature to security and entertainment systems,

from home or anywhere in the world. It truly makes everyday living more convenient and enjoyable. Also, home automation systems are designed with energy efficiency in mind, so they allow you to monitor and optimize energy usage. And the peace of mind the security systems offer is invaluable. You can control your home’s security from anywhere with smart locks for keyless entry, integrated video doorbells and two-way communication through surveillance cameras.

LL: What would you say to people who are worried about the presence of clunky wires and screens in their homes?

CM: Modern home automation solutions prioritize sleek design and seamless integration. You won’t find a bank of light switches or dangling wires cluttering your space. Most of the features are virtually invisible, allowing you to focus on the experience rather than the technology. Many systems are crafted with aesthetics in mind, utilizing wireless technology to minimize visible clutter.

Smart devices blend into your home decor, featuring options such as flush-mounted controls and discreet sensors.

LL: How much can homeowners expect the service to cost?

CM: The cost of a home automation system can vary significantly based on the homeowner’s wish list and specific needs, making it a highly scalable investment. Typically, homeowners can expect to spend anywhere from a few thousand dollars to upwards of seven figures.

LL: Are there any drawbacks of home automation that buyers should be aware of?

CM: One of the most compelling aspects of home automation is that once you experience its convenience and luxury, you’ll never want to live without it. This transformative technology elevates your daily routine, creating a lifestyle that is effortlessly efficient and comfortable.

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Director of Service, Installation & Support

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A LUXURIOUS COLLABORATION

Zilli

Home Interiors, a fashionable retailer of quality home goods and furniture, will adorn the Living Luxe booth at the 2025 Living Luxe Design Show.

By Bekky O’Neil

While snow falls outside and we settle in for the winter, design enthusiasts can look forward to the promise of spring and, with it, the Living Luxe Design Show. As a beacon for all things design, the show promises to be filled with curated home decor and fashion and lifestyle inspiration, so it feels a perfect fit that the Living Luxe booth should feature furniture from Vaughan-based Zilli Home Interiors. Now in its 15th year in the business, Zilli Home boasts a sizeable showroom with more than 60 vignettes that clients can explore and customize to suit their needs.

This will be Zilli Home’s first time participating in the Living Luxe Design Show, and company president Natalie Papia is excited about the opportunity to work alongside the magazine.

“I love Living Luxe, and we’re thrilled with the opportunity to participate,” she says. The Zilli Home team will collaborate with Living Luxe to create a booth that suits the needs of the space. While the exact items on show are yet to be decided, the Zilli Home collections guarantee that the booth will feature exceptional pieces to elevate the design conversation and welcome readers into the show’s space.

It’s only appropriate that a brand with a focus on luxury and style would be the choice for this collaboration. “We offer high-quality furnishings at affordable pricing,” Papia says. “Value, fashion and quality all in one.”

For customers looking to get a sneak peek of what to expect from the show in the spring, the Zilli Home website boasts a comprehensive offering of all the collections, and the showroom— where the staff are consultants with design backgrounds—is open seven days a week. They also offer in-home consultations. “Our customers are fashionable and savvy,” Papia says. “They know what they want, especially when it comes to apparel and bags, but when it comes to home design, they appreciate a design consultant that can bring that into the home. Having the expertise of an external eye can make a huge difference.”

For Papia, the LLDS is an opportunity for dialogue in the design industry. She travels to design and trade shows around the world to source items and enjoys the opportunity to see what other designers are doing on the global stage. Being able to meet clients in the real world is an opportunity for in-person contact and provides invaluable inspiration. The 2025 Living Luxe Design Show opens on Thursday, April 24 and runs from Friday, April 25 to Sunday, April 27 at the Toronto Congress Centre.

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FILLING THE GAP WITH STYLE

A new partnership ensures that EuroLine Windows continues to bring Canadians innovative European-designed products previously missing in the market.

By Susan Kelly

“ARCHITECTS, BUILDERS, CONTRACTORS AND DISCERNING HOMEOWNERS

NOW TURN TO EUROLINE FOR EXCEPTIONAL WINDOW PRODUCTS.”

There was a time when Canadian designers and architects faced a great divide when it came to windows and doors. Their clients clamoured for European products, loving the sophisticated aesthetic and advanced technical aspects, only to find that they did not conform to Canadian building codes or were designed for more temperate climes than ours.

For more than three decades, Delta, B.C.-based EuroLine Windows has bridged the gap, providing energy-efficient windows and doors inspired by forward European design and high-tech ingenuity,

and adapted for the extreme temperatures found in much of this country. The result: architects, builders, contractors and discerning homeowners now turn to EuroLine for exceptional window products. Now, they can stay extra warm and stylish with the forging of an alliance with aluplast, a global industry leader, and the launch of an innovative product, the first of many to come. “A new partnership marks a leap forward as we continue to fill an important gap in the market,” says Davyd Funk, EuroLine president.

Established in 1982 in Germany, aluplast is one of the world’s

leading providers of premium quality PVC windows and doors. Still family-owned, it now operates in more than 30 countries around the world. “We chose aluplast because of the exceptional products it develops,” Funk says. “And its environmental responsibility and management style sync perfectly with ours.”

While many European suppliers are reluctant to modify their products for North America, EuroLine encouraged aluplast to accept this challenge. For one, the way windows are anchored into wood-frame construction is different on this side of the pond. “They modified their frames, which then were tested in Canada,” Funk says. “Working together, we went through several versions before finding the perfect fit.”

The duo’s new product, aluplast’s energeto® neo window system, was launched last autumn to an enthusiastic response. It marks a new dimension in PVC window design, meeting both the highest energy efficiency requirements and the latest design trends. For the latter, the system took inspiration from the legendary Bauhaus style that revolutionized architecture with simple and beautiful design.

Light and elegant, energeto neo systems create a narrow frame—half as narrow as most systems—around the window glass, ideal for a minimalist contemporary home. And while previously PVC windows would be white on the interior, these windows can be ordered in a wood look-alike or painted aluminum-looking finishes. “The sleek, angular design plus the ability to emulate the look of aluminum windows alone makes this an exceptional product,” Funk says.

Looking ahead, many more products are set to come out of this

partnership. EuroLine and aluplast are collaborating to develop further systems robust enough to accommodate deep triple-glazing, an innovation designed to stand up to Canada’s climatic extremes. “It’s just one of the ways EuroLine will continue to innovate and bring the best of European innovation to design-conscious Canadians,” Funk says.

Architecture by Juliana Meda

Photography by Ana Pachecco

DYNASTY STATUS

With a focus on delivering a personalized shopping experience tailored to each customer’s unique needs and a passion for solving design challenges, Toronto’s Decorium brings 38 years of experience to the art of furnishing homes.

By Rosie Prata

Established in 1986 and family-owned for three generations, Decorium has earned its pedigree as one of the most trusted names in home furnishings in the GTA. “We believe that furniture is more than just functional,” says Tara Lindsay, vice president of advertising and a buyer at Decorium, where she has worked for more than two decades. “It’s an expression of personal style and the way that you want to live. We’ve got a dedication to craftsmanship, quality and design that’s reflected in every single piece we put into our showroom.”

Decorium’s intention is to “introduce customers to a new way of thinking and living,” Lindsay explains. They believe that clients should invest in key statement pieces first—such as sofas, beds and dining tables—and build up surrounding accent pieces, adding or swapping out rugs, ottomans and lighting as their needs and tastes change in pace with their lifestyles.

Decorium is a veritable “one-stop shop for every room in your home, from floor to ceiling,” Lindsay says. The company’s team of designers thrives on providing innovative fixes for tricky spaces and offers complimentary personalized design solutions for clients in store or at home. “Every customer has some sort of design challenge,” Lindsay says. “We take pride in being able to customize products based on a space.” For the owner of a condo with a small kitchen, for example, a designer might suggest a multi-functional coffee table that pops up to become a dining surface. For a family that is in a bigger

home but plans to downsize once the kids have left home, a designer would select versatile multi-functional furniture pieces that can easily transition between spaces. “We’re really learning about the consumers’ lifestyles,” she says. “We’re not just trying to sell them a piece of furniture for today; we’re trying to understand what their future looks like.”

Many of Decorium’s items are crafted by skilled artisans who prioritize quality, so customers know they can rely on them for many years. Lindsay says furniture purchased at Decorium is often handed down to the next generation. “There’s an upside and a downside to selling quality furniture,” she jokes. “The upside is that it is designed to last. The downside is that we don’t see them replacing their furniture as often!”

Some of the most coveted items at Decorium are made by Stressless, an exclusive line of Scandinavian-inspired seating that reclines according to each individual’s body movements, providing comprehensive body support. “It’s basically providing tailored support and moving with you to ensure comfort in all the right places,” she notes. “It’s something that you really have to experience in person, and everyone who sits in it just loves it.”

Ultimately, after nearly four decades, it’s the people who make the company. Of her team, Lindsay says proudly: “We all have the same goal, the same commitment to quality and creativity. We’re dedicated to enhancing all of our customers’ lives through creating beautiful spaces that they call home.”

CLUB RULES

At The Collective, the Toronto design world comes together to work, play and make lasting connections.

By Eve Thomas

When is an office not an office? For Carly Nemtean, co-founding The Collective Workspace was a matter of taking all the best elements of traditional workplaces—and ditching the worst—in order to build a buzzing hub for workers in what she calls “the shelter industry.” The result is a chic 13,000-square-foot co-working space in North York that is as flexible as its members, who include architects, builders and interior designers, as well as jewellery makers, photographers and anyone else drawn to this decidedly modern kind of work environment.

The idea for The Collective came about in 2019 when Nemtean was looking for Toronto office space for her own expanding company,

Carriage Lane Design-Build, then based in Mississauga. Costs were prohibitive for the square footage and features she and business partner Rocco Verrilli required, especially in the city’s established Designers Walk area. She calls the search a “daunting” task, one she soon found they were not alone in. “I knew so many designers, architects and builders who were working from their home offices and didn’t have the capital to invest in their own space, including resources like a boardroom, receptionist, fully equipped kitchen,” she recalls. “So that’s where we found there was a big gap in the industry. There wasn’t anyone doing that for that shelter creative community.”

Offerings at The Collective include a shared community manager at reception (whom Nemtean likens to a favourite bartender: someone who remembers your name and drink order and lets you vent), plus private call booths, a buzzing kitchen and spaces with aesthetics to fit every mood—from eccentric pops of colour for brainstorming sessions to crisp white minimalism perfect for creating clean content.

Thoughtful design details are, unsurprisingly, found in every inch

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of the space, including Rocpal cabinetry, Whittington & Co. custom furniture and handmade rugs from Paum, The Collective’s own burgeoning B2B custom rug company.

As for access, members can choose from a wide range of options that reflect a new world beyond the standard nine-to-five day. These include day passes (for people who work from home and need a professional place to host a meeting), 24/7 flex memberships (perfect for anyone with clients around the globe) and a top-tier executive membership (which includes a private entrance). In addition, the space is bookable for events, and The Collective regularly holds panel talks and designfocused product knowledge sessions for members. It also hosts field trips (think outings to vintage showrooms and walk-throughs of custom-built homes) and such regular seasonal activities as potlucks and gingerbread house-building competitions.

What’s really special about The Collective is a little less tangible than accent walls and boardroom access. Nemtean says the real magic is in the community the space creates, especially between workers who might otherwise find themselves siloed. “So much of our industry is learning on the job,” she says. “Asking questions, making friends, making connections. When you come here, you get a coffee, run into one of our members, you catch up, and make a date to hang out afterward. I would say 70 per cent of our members end up doing business together.”

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THE GOLD STANDARD

Serca Financials’ Danielle Jenkins gives us the lowdown on the company’s team of mortgage brokers, from when to use one to what they can do for you.

By Susan Semenak

In today’s complex financial landscape, navigating the home mortgage process can be daunting. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, seasoned investor, looking to refinance, or simply buying a family cottage, enlisting a mortgage brokerage such as Serca Financial Mortgage Group can make all the difference.

Danielle Jenkins, managing partner of Serca Financial, emphasizes that the company’s team of brokers not only finds advantageous mortgage rates but also supports clients throughout the process, ensuring they get the right product and structure for their needs. “Buying a property is one of the biggest decisions a person will ever make,” she explains. “We help clients plan for now and the future, seeing the big picture more clearly.”

Servicing clients across Ontario, Serca Financial’s growing client base includes anyone and everyone, from first-time homebuyers and newcomers to Canada to seasoned investors and those seeking multi-million dollar mortgages for homes or projects. “One benefit of working with us is access to various lenders that provide specific products for each client’s requirements,” Jenkins says. “Our team-based approach elevates mortgage services; it’s about being the best partner for our clients and realtors.”

Founded by principal broker Sergo Rica, Serca Financial leverages connections in the mortgage lending and banking industries to find the right financing options. Jenkins aims to dispel the myth that mortgage brokers are only for those who can’t get bank loans. “Banks often decline borrowers who don’t fit into their narrow requirements,” she notes, mentioning self-employed individuals and those with “bruised credit.”

“WE HELP CLIENTS PLAN FOR NOW AND THE FUTURE, SEEING THE BIG PICTURE MORE CLEARLY.”

“We have different ways to help you qualify,” she says. “Bruised credit doesn’t have to mean a ‘no’ for a new mortgage. We work to explain your situation to lenders.”

Serca Financial offers a range of services, from assessing financial situations to finding the right mortgage products. Jenkins highlights Serca’s tailored approach, stating: “Our team’s relationships with banks help us find solutions often overlooked in standard settings.”

Jenkins has many reasons why clients should consider brokers over banks. With access to diverse lenders and specialized products, brokers can help clients find better rates and terms that a single bank may not offer. They also handle the paperwork and communication with lenders, reducing the stress of the application process. The team at Serca Financial Mortgage Group is committed to supporting clients beyond closing, guiding them through future refinances and evolving financial goals. “We are with you every step of the way,” Jenkins says.

ALL LIT UP

Blending functionality and finesse, thoughtful lighting is a centrepiece of modern design.

From modern sconces to sculptural chandeliers, lighting sets the tone for an entire space. We chatted with Mark Naimer, president of Union Lighting and Furnishings, about the biggest lighting trends of the year and how to use them, in addition to the shift toward greener lighting.

Living Luxe Magazine (LL): What are the lighting trends you’ve observed over the past year and where do you see them going next?

Mark Naimer (MN): This past year, we’ve seen a shift in how people approach lighting. Magnetic lighting systems have been a gamechanger in the industry. Essentially, these systems use a track with a magnetic connection, allowing you to snap in and move fixtures around without any tools. It’s incredibly versatile—perfect for people who want to customize their lighting or change things up regularly.

Even though these systems have been more popular this year, I think they will continue to grow in popularity since there are always interesting new advancements coming. Another key trend has been the return of curved, organic lines and natural forms. Fixtures are no longer just functional; they’re sculptural pieces that bring a sense of nature into the room. Looking ahead, I think lighting trends will continue to push the limits of design and technology.

LL: When choosing lighting, when should people pay attention to trends and when should they ignore them?

MN: I always tell my customers that trends are great if you’re looking to refresh a space or add a modern touch, but you shouldn’t feel pressured to follow them if they don’t fit your style. For example,

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if you’re designing a smart house, smart lighting solutions are great, but if you want only a basic setup, they can be too much. It’s also important to consider how much you’ll use the lighting; if it’s a main fixture, it needs to be both stylish and functional.

LL: What role do sustainability and energy efficiency play in the current lighting trends?

MN: Sustainability and energy efficiency have become central to lighting design. LED technology is more efficient than ever, and it’s not just about bulbs anymore. We’re seeing entire lighting systems that are designed to use less energy, such as smart lighting systems that can switch off when a room is empty. Fixtures with built-in motion sensors, especially in spaces such as walk-in closets, are becoming increasingly popular for their convenience

and energy savings. These sensors automatically turn lights on when someone enters and off when the space is unoccupied, ensuring that energy isn’t wasted. This kind of automation not only supports sustainability but also adds ease and practicality to daily routines.

LL: How do you believe that the way people think about lighting is changing?

MN: Lighting is becoming more of an experience. Customers are looking for fixtures that do more than just light up a room. They want pieces that set a mood, highlight the design of their space, or even tell a story. We’re seeing more sculptural, artistic lights that can act as focal points, almost like a piece of art.

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A HOLIDAY ESCAPE AT HOTEL X

The downtown Toronto hotel enchants during the holiday season with delectable dining, plenty of places to gather and magical events for the whole family.

By Charlotte Bushnell-Boates

Tucked inside Toronto’s historic Stanley Barracks, Hotel X Toronto beckons as a luxury oasis for getaways of all kinds. Overlooking Lake Ontario, the hotel features a selection of spacious and impeccably designed rooms and suites that are the perfect home base from which to explore Toronto.

During the winter season, a getaway to Hotel X is magical. Surrounded by natural beauty and with ample luxury amenities, the hotel is a perfect destination for families to come together and celebrate. Despite the hotel’s serene setting, guests are only minutes away from the downtown core of Toronto, creating a sense of peaceful seclusion while still being central enough to enjoy days exploring and evenings about town.

The hotel itself offers many opportunities for gathering and relaxation. All of Toronto is visible from the 50-foot-long indoor/outdoor rooftop pool, heated

during the winter months for year-round use. The suite of amenities continues at Hotel X with a fully-equipped gym, professional-calibre tennis courts and Canada’s first Guerlain spa, complete with an unparalleled list of luxurious treatments to ease any lingering holiday stress. When snowy weather strikes, an in-hotel movie theatre is a cozy yet elevated way to spend the evening.

On the top three floors of Hotel X, Valerie serves up creative dishes and cocktails, all with city views and sleek interiors. Japanese-inspired dishes—such as wagyu skirt steak skewers or hamachi crudo—are often enjoyed accompanied by live performances and music. Meanwhile, Roses Social on Hotel X’s second floor offers modern North American-inspired dining in a welcoming and contemporary ambience. In-room dining is always available and makes for the perfect effortless evening in.

To celebrate the upcoming holiday season, Hotel X

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is hosting a number of activities and events. The much-loved Breakfast and Storytime with Santa and Mrs. Claus events, featuring holiday treats, story time with Santa Claus, face painting and more family-friendly fun, will be held on select dates throughout December. An impeccably prepared breakfast buffet is provided, featuring such elevated classics as Holiday Eggs Benedict and Carved Holiday Ham, alongside kid favourites, including fluffy Prancer Pancakes and Ooey Gooey Eggs with melted mozzarella. Throughout December, the hotel’s 10XTO Play Centre also hosts holiday-themed activities perfect for little

ones, including crafts, ornament-making and more.

Families looking for the ultimate holiday getaway at Hotel X can book a Holiday Family Fun package, which includes tickets to the Breakfast with Santa and Mrs. Claus event, along with special family amenities and holiday activities designed to delight the entire family. A picturesque cold-weather escape, Hotel X serves as the perfect winter hideaway for celebration and relaxation over the holiday season. Only minutes from downtown Toronto yet seemingly a world away, it’s an exceptional destination to uncover the magic of the holiday season.

ELEVATED DESIGN

Step into a world of colour, culture and craftsmanship at Darlene Janeiro Design’s new Oakville showroom and studio.

By Adriana Ermter

With nearly 20 years in the design industry, Darlene Janeiro, founder and principal designer of Darlene Janeiro Design, knows a thing or two about weaving together stylish spaces. At her new eponymous showroom and studio space, the vignettes throughout are a testament to her expertise: a sleek, modern candle holder is paired with a unique sculpture, layered contemporary textiles are nestled against vintageinspired pieces and everywhere, colour and whimsy abound. With the artful mix of items, Janeiro aims to inspire and create spaces that are both current and meaningful. “We don’t follow trends,” she says. “We find what truly resonates with each client.”

The latest feather in Janeiro’s well-decorated cap, the new studio promises to elevate the GTA’s home design shopping experience. Located in the heart of downtown Oakville at 146 Lakeshore Road East, the 2,000-square-foot haven is candy for the eyes, bursting with vibrant colours, cultural flair and masterful craftsmanship. “It’s still the same people and the same excellent work that we’ve been doing,” Janeiro says. “But it’s a new location and a new studio, so more of our service.” With its curated collections, local artistry and global influences, Janeiro’s new creative space doesn’t just showcase home decor—it awakens the senses and elevates the entire shopping experience. Inside, the boutique is organized by colour family and the associated mood of each hue. The entryway greets with soothing shades of green, promoting a sense of wellness and balance. Nearby, bold reds energize and serene blues offer a moment of peace while an invigorating blaze of orange beckons across the room. For Janeiro, this juxtaposition of colour is about more than just choosing hues that look good together—

it’s about crafting environments that inspire emotion “Colour has always been central to my design philosophy,” she says. “I believe in its healing power and its ability to transform spaces and uplift spirits. My clients don’t just browse here, they experience how colour and texture interact to create spaces that resonate on a deeper level.”

Following this philosophy, each glass vase, tasselled throw pillow and bevelled mirror has been carefully arranged against a backdrop of pink and purple wildflowers, graphic printed wallpaper or gallery-styled artwork. An intricately carved mahogany bedframe with black and white linens commands attention atop a neutraltoned rug. Geometric patterned floor tiles ground a stunning forest green and black granite kitchen island. And gorgeous textiles are everywhere: in luxurious wall coverings, piles of sumptuous fabrics and as sculptural decor—all adding layers of tactile interest. “Every piece tells a story and invites a reaction,” says Janeiro. “Watching people connect emotionally with different items [as they walk through the studio] is always fascinating.”

Janeiro describes her aesthetic approach as “Design Culsturian,” a term she coined to underpin her team’s seamless blend of cultural insights with design. Items from travels through Europe and North

America—be they sculptural apples and pears from the Netherlands, Portugal’s exquisite handwoven towels or coffee from Indigenous suppliers—add worldly flair and a unique narrative.

Janeiro personally vets suppliers to ensure quality, craftsmanship and ethical practices. This care and attention to where she sources her products extends to collaborations with local artisans, with whom Janeiro prioritizes authentic relationships, and her support of artistic traditions. “Every item here is more than just a beautiful object,” she says. “It’s a piece of history and culture, chosen for its ability to tell a story. As a Canadian, it’s important to support local communities and to share these stories.”

Word of the new showroom has spread. Alongside clients looking for a home refresh, it has quickly become a hub for designers, contractors and industry professionals seeking inspiration and a place to exchange ideas, discover new products and connect over a shared passion for design. In response to this buzz, the space now hosts a program for industry pros to connect and uplift one another. “We’ve had designers come in after hearing about us from clients or suppliers and their enthusiasm has been so rewarding,” Janeiro says. “It’s exciting to see our showroom becoming a place where creativity flourishes.”

HOUSING HOPE

Shelter Movers’ annual gala, A Moving Affair, brought together community members and business leaders in support of those fleeing abuse.

Photography by George Pimentel

Shelter Movers held its eighth annual gala on October 24 at the iconic Four Seasons Hotel in support of survivors fleeing gender-based violence. The Event Chair, Cait Alexander, bravely shared her personal story of triumph in overcoming intimate partner violence, calling Shelter Movers a beacon of hope for clients on their journey to freedom. With the support of Presenting Sponsor RBC Capital Markets, the event raised nearly $600,000 while fostering awareness and empowerment. Shelter Movers is the only charity of its kind in Canada providing no-cost moving and storage services to survivors of gender-based violence. A Moving Affair has quickly become a catalyst for positive and tangible change, generating vital resources that help break the cycle of abuse for individuals across Canada.

1. (LEFT TO RIGHT) SAMUEL ALEXANDER, CAROLYN ALEXANDER, CAIT ALEXANDER, THOMAS ALEXANDER AND CHARLES ALEXANDER 2. GEORGE STROUMBOULOPOULOS (LEFT) AND SARAH MANTELLA 3. SAMUEL ALEXANDER (LEFT) AND CHARLES ALEXANDER 4. (LEFT TO RIGHT) SELENE RICHARDS, VOLUNTEER AWARD WINNER KATHERINE WYRSTIUK AND MARK RICHARDS 5. SIMONE DENNY 6. (LEFT TO RIGHT) JENNIFER BASSETT, SAMANTHA STEWART AND CAROLYN POTTER 7. (LEFT TO RIGHT) JAMES BOOTY, CHRISTI HIMMELHEBER AND BRETT SHERLOCK 8. NICOLE FONTYN-TAYLOR (LEFT) AND NNEKA MACGREGOR 9. (LEFT TO RIGHT) SABRINA MADDEAUX, BERNADETTE MORRA AND CANDICE SINCLAIR 10. (LEFT TO RIGHT) GUEST, ALBA ZOTO, JULIA MELE KABERIE AND ANNA VUJOVIC 11. SHELTER MOVERS CEO AND FOUNDER MARC HULL JACQUIN (LEFT) AND PAULO LEONE 12. (LEFT TO RIGHT) DOMINIQUE BISSON, SHANTELLE BISSON AND MIKAELA BISSON 13. (LEFT TO RIGHT) WHITNEY BAKER, SHEHINAZ MANORI AND AMANA MANORI

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LIGHTS, CAMERA, ANKA

Canada’s Walk of Fame celebrated Canadian excellence with a starstudded showing of Paul Anka: His Way.

Photography by George Pimentel and Door24

The Canada’s Walk of Fame (CWOF) Paul Anka TIFF event was an extraordinary evening that celebrated the legendary singer and songwriter. Held during the Toronto International Film Festival, the event brought together a starstudded crowd to honour the new film Paul Anka: His Way and Anka’s remarkable career and contributions to music and entertainment. Hosted in the Union Station TD Carriageway and with Living Luxe Magazine as a media sponsor, the evening—called the Chair’s Dinner—featured a five-course Michelin Star meal, a screening of His Wayand an incredible live performance by Anka. This remarkable intersection of film and music highlighted Anka’s enduring legacy while paying tribute to the artistic excellence championed by CWOF with a celebration of Canadian talent.

1. (LEFT TO RIGHT) NICK DI DONATO, NADIA DI DONATO, JENNIFER LIPKOWITZ AND ANTHONY SIRIANNI 2. PAUL ANKA 3. (LEFT TO RIGHT) GUEST, RANDY LENNOX AND JULLY BLACK 4. GUESTS 5. (LEFT TO RIGHT)

NICK DI DONATO, GUEST AND NADIA DI DONATO 6. JENNIFER LIPKOWITZ (LEFT) AND JEANNE BEKER 7. MYRON DEMKIW (LEFT) AND CARMELA DEMKIW 8 . DON ALLEN (LEFT) AND NICK DI DONATO 9. (LEFT TO RIGHT)

DWIGHT DRUMMOND, ELIZABETH DOWDESWELL AND JANICE DRUMMOND 10. JENNIFER LIPKOWITZ (LEFT) AND ANTHONY SIRIANNI 11. JEFFREY LATIMER

EXPERIENCE THE UNEXPECTED

A magical outdoor picnic unfolded downtown at Le Diner en Blanc Toronto.

By Lori Heller

On a warm evening in September, Fort York in downtown Toronto was transformed with a dazzling outdoor soiree as 1,000 guests dressed in white gathered for Le Diner en Blanc. Celebrated in more than 91 cities worldwide, this global movement unites diverse communities for an elegant picnic experience. Under the leadership of host and producer Lori Heller of Heller Events, alongside the support of co-chair Marc Talbot and lead designer Veronica Michalczak, the event’s dining experience included picnic baskets from Chef Trevor Lui of Highbell Hospitality, canapés by Boursin Canada, fine wines from Charlie’s Burgers, and flavoured sparkling water from Clearly Canadian served on embellished, allwhite picnic tables supplied by Element Event Solutions. A magical fusion of food, fun and unforgettable memories, the evening buzzed with energy, featuring live entertainment, photobooths and brand activations that invited guests to capture memories beneath the stars.

MEMORABLE MILESTONES

Canaroma Bath & Tile celebrated 45 years of business with a floral-filled gala.

Photography by Lula King Photography

Canaroma Bath & Tile recently celebrated its 45th anniversary with a spectacular gala, bringing together architects, designers and builders from across the industry. Guests were welcomed through a lush, vibrant floral tunnel that created a magical ambience, leading into a beautifully decorated venue, filled with greenery and colourful blooms. The event honoured Canaroma’s rich history and commitment to innovation in luxury bath, kitchen and tile design. It was a night filled with inspiring conversations and networking, where industry professionals exchanged ideas, explored new trends and connected over shared passions. The team at Canaroma says they felt immense gratitude for all those who joined them in commemorating the milestone.

1. JENNIFER LIPKOWITZ (LEFT) AND ANTHONY SIRIANNI OF LIVING LUXE MAGAZINE 2. (LEFT TO RIGHT) DVIRA OVADIA, ANDREW PIACENTINI, FRANK PIACENTINI, ROBIN NADEL AND ANTHONY PIACENTINI 3. FRANK CAMPOLI (LEFT) AND JOSIE CAMPOLI OF JTF HOMES 4. STACEY COHEN DESIGN - STACEY COHEN (SECOND FROM RIGHT) AND TEAM 5. (LEFT TO RIGHT) ARIEL MARCIANO OF CHEF DE LA MESA AND AMBER WALKER AND BRADLEY WEST OF AMBER WALKER EVENTS 6. DVIRA INTERIORS - DVIRA OVADIA (SECOND FROM LEFT) AND TEAM 7. TIFFANI LONDON AND MICHAEL LONDON OF MICHAEL LONDON DESIGN 8. MARIN ZABZUNI OF CONTEMPO STUDIO (RIGHT) AND GUEST 9. JANE LOCKHART DESIGN – JANE LOCKHART (THIRD FROM RIGHT) AND TEAM 10. JESSICA CINNAMON DESIGN – JESSICA CINNAMON (MIDDLE) AND TEAM 11. (LEFT TO RIGHT) JAY A. DAI, BRIAN WOODROW, RAPHAEL GOMES, GUEST, LORNE ROSE AND JANE XU 12. WISE NADEL DESIGN - ROBIN NADEL (SECOND FROM LEFT) AND TEAM

SHATTERING BARRIERS

An event to remember, the 2024 Women Empowerment Awards honoured women who dream big and create change.

Photography by George Pimentel

Beneath the dazzling lights at the Park Hyatt Toronto, the 2024 Women Empowerment Awards, presented by Rogers Communications in collaboration with Mantella Corporation, was a night that pulsed with inspiration and power. Supermodel Coco Rocha, Juno award-winning artist Keshia Chanté, First Nations actress and model and Miss Universe Canada Ashley Callingbull, and government Ministers Charmaine Williams and Rechie Valdez gathered to celebrate women who are redefining success across Canada. The air was electric as Voices Rock Medicine, a choir of women physicians who find connection and community through singing, delivered a mesmerizing performance. From trailblazing entrepreneurs to community leaders, each woman honoured has shattered barriers, inspiring others to dream bigger. The energy was contagious, proof that when women come together, they create unstoppable momentum. This unforgettable night was more than just a celebration; it was a powerful reminder that collective strength lies in lifting each other up. Together, women rise, and together, they are shaping a brighter future.

1. JORDAN STEWART 2. AMANDA AERIN (LEFT) AND KATRINA TURNBULL 3. HONOURABLE RECHIE VALDEZ 4. (LEFT TO RIGHT) SYLVIA MANTELLA, KLAUDIA ZINATY AND SUZANNE ROGERS 5. COCO ROCHA (LEFT) AND CHARLENE BROPHY 6. (LEFT TO RIGHT) NATASHA FERGUSON, HOLLY MIKLAS, KIMESHA WALTERS AND JUDY STEWART 7. TAMMIE SUTHERLAND (LEFT) AND MEREDITH SHAW 8. CANDICE SINCLAIR (LEFT) AND CHRISTINE REZVANIAN 9. DIMITRA DAVIDSON (LEFT) AND CAROLINA PARRA 10. IFEOMA ESONWUNE (LEFT) AND KEN ACHIOSO

DRAMATIC FLAIR

Bringing relaxed luxury and plenty of charm to a new-build house, Flair Interiors’ Golden Bay project masterfully blends timeless and contemporary elements. Read all about the stylish home on page 130.

FOR REINVENTION

How Zendaya, one of the world’s most sought-after actors, parlayed talent, fashion sense and hard work into a stellar career.

Interview by Fabián Waintal

Story by Susan Kelly

Photography by Warner Bros, MGM and AMPAS

THIS IMAGE: Zendaya 2022, Oscars

Once upon a time, a talented teenager from Oakland, California shot to stardom in two hit series on the Disney Channel. Blessed with charismatic, youthful beauty, Zendaya seemed destined to be an eternal franchise princess. Yet she quickly transitioned into very grownup starring roles in the hit TV show Euphoria and blockbuster films such as the two recent iterations of Dune and the recent Spider-Man series. Fashion played a big role in fast-tracking the 28-year-old star’s new trajectory. Her longtime stylist, self-described “image architect” Law Roach (also behind Celine Dion and Lindsay Lohan's comeback transformations), first prescribed the glam and daring red carpet looks that showed her in a new light to all. There certainly was nothing jejune about the futuristic-themed yet boldly chic outfits she rocked at world premieres of Dune: Part Two, including a vintage Thierry Mugler chrome cyborg bodysuit.

Besides receiving media attention, the former child model turned actor finds she gains greater confidence when dressing up for public appearances. “I love my job, the work, being on set, but I am terrified of that part of our job,” she says. “I’m too shy and that’s why I use fashion like an armour where I’m able to play it like a movie character.”

Very well played, too, as she now enjoys fashion icon status in her own right. In 2021, Zendaya became the youngest person to ever win the CFDA Fashion Icon Award, and in May, she co-chaired the fabled Met Gala fashion extravaganza. Again teaming up with Roach, she dazzled, first appearing in a breathtaking Maison Margiela Artisanal by John Galliano dress. She later reappeared in a dramatic and voluminous black gown, also by Galliano, before making a third change into a glittery white custom-made gown by Celia Kritharioti.

With a third season expected to be released in 2025, in the HBO and A24 series she portrays a troubled teenage drug addict who struggles to get sober, stay in rehab and find her place in the world. For her performance, in 2020 she became the youngest actor to ever win an Emmy award for lead actress in a drama, one of two she would bring home for her work on Euphoria, along with a Critics Choice award

THIS IMAGE: Zendaya 2023, Dune: Part Two

Beyond the image, a lot of behind-the-scenes hard work went into her evolution from teen singer and dancer to serious actor. She admits once finding it difficult having no one to help her navigate the industry as a young person. She wisely opted for a deliberate approach, and with patience and persistence, found doors began to open. She also learned to trust her instincts. “For me, nothing felt it was the right thing. I didn’t want to just say yes because I didn’t have anything else,” she says. “Until the series Euphoria came along. I read it, and I fell in love with it immediately.”

It's really cool when you know you can either spread good or you can spread bad and hopefully, I like to think that I can spread good, especially with charity work.

and a Golden Globe for best actress in a drama television series.

In 2024, her role in the sequel Dune: Part Two was greatly expanded from the previous instalment. The plot establishes the warrior Chani as the main love interest of protagonist Paul Atreides, played by co-star Timothée Chalamet. Zendaya says of developing their onscreen rapport: “Sometimes words aren’t enough, and I enjoyed finding and building just glances, a simple look between us, moments between these two people who are, ultimately, bound together.” Her emotionally charged performance met with highly positive reviews and the possibility of an Academy Award nomination.

If not for Dune: Part Two, advance buzz has it that Zendaya may receive a first Oscar nod for her impressive performance in 2024’s Amazon MGM’s Challengers, directed by Italian filmmaker Luca Guadagnino. Her role as the femme fatale in a love triangle between tennis players challenged her in many ways. Notably, it was not a sport she followed or felt she played well, but she was intrigued by the project’s complexity. “There was drama, but I wouldn’t say it was just a drama because it had tennis, yet it wasn’t a sports movie,” she says. “It was a character I’d never seen before.”

Offscreen, since meeting while filming 2017’s Spider-Man: Homecoming, she and Tom Holland have been close friends and a media-darling couple, though both prefer to keep their relationship private.

But even with the plethora of glamorous dresses and impressive awards, another aspect of fame is the best part for Zendaya: “I like that I get to reach a completely new platform that I wouldn't be able to if I wasn't. It's really cool when you know you can either spread good or you can spread bad and hopefully, I like to think that I can spread good, especially with charity work.” Over the past decade, she has lent her support to numerous charities and causes devoted to humanitarian aid, including Convoy of Hope for which she was an ambassador and has spoken out to raise awareness on such issues as racial inequity and the importance of giving back. And in February 2024, she made a large donation to the California Shakespeare Theater, where she took acting classes as a child and her mother, elementary school teacher Claire Stoermer, worked as house manager.

When asked if she prefers to be known as an actor, singer, dancer or model, she replied: “All of them.” To that list, she might also add producer, a role that she took for the TV series K.C. Undercover and Euphoria and more recently Challengers

Looking to the future, Canadian auteur Denis Villeneuve, who directed Zendaya in Dune, perhaps summed it up best on the occasion of Time naming her one of 2022’s 100 most influential people in the world when he called her “an autonomous creative force” and a “cultural icon in the making.” And as Zendaya’s character, Chani, says in the final scene of Dune: Part One: “This is only the beginning.”

THIS IMAGE: Zendaya 2024, Challengers Premiere

LUXURY TRIPLING DOWN ON

by

Photography

George Pimentel

The third Living Luxe Design Show expands the horizons of luxury living like never before. Read on for some must-see highlights of the 2025 edition.

Written by Susan Kelly

Photography by George Pimentel, Helicopix Inc

Show Director and Partner: Diana

Pires

Venue: Toronto Congress Centre, North Building

In design, three is something of an enchanted number with a special power to create dynamism and beauty. And the third edition of the Living Luxe Design Show (LLDS), presented by JennAir and running from April 24 to 27, 2025, promises to bring the magic for aficionados of luxury design and elegant living. “It will continue the original spirit: to bring to life Living Luxe Magazine’s unique blend of fashion with interior and exterior design in an immersive experience like no other,” says Jennifer Lipkowitz, Living Luxe visionary co-originator, publisher and driving force. “And we’re adding an unexpected element to the show that will take the experience to a whole new level for everyone who attends.”

Expect the big reveal on that point in January 2025. For now, Lipkowitz confirms that JennAir is on board to reprise its

role as the presenting sponsor, stage sponsor and official appliance sponsor. And the show’s direction again is in the ultra-capable hands of partner and show director Diana Pires, who says she is excited to see the exhibitors’ talent and creativity come to life in the upcoming show.

“One aspect I’m particularly looking forward to is the opportunity to welcome a diverse audience, which will contribute to the vibrant atmosphere we aim to create,” Pires says. “The show will feature a carefully curated mix of design, home decor and lifestyle inspiration, all aimed at providing an immersive experience that fully

engages everyone.”

Once more, Canada's most eminent creators and purveyors will join some of the world’s leading lights at the expansive Toronto Congress Centre. Last year’s show encompassed 60,000 square feet of space for exhibitors. In 2025, that number almost doubles to over 100,000 square feet. “Building on the spectacular success of last year’s show, I’m happy to report that 90 per cent of booth space was booked by November 2024,” says Anthony Sirianni, magazine co-founder and COO of Living Luxe Media Group.

“Having set a new standard for luxury exhibitions,

WE’RE ADDING AN UNEXPECTED ELEMENT TO THE SHOW THAT WILL TAKE THE EXPERIENCE TO A WHOLE NEW LEVEL FOR EVERYONE WHO ATTENDS.

our goal is to exceed already elevated expectations.”

It all gets off to a glam and rousing start on Thursday, April 24, with the opening night party. The general public will rub shoulders with media and influencers covering the event, along with high-profile businesspeople, prominent socialites and celebrities. Greg Burns, general manager of Alfa Romeo Maserati of Toronto, was one of the many exhibitors who attended last year’s event. “From the outset, you got a sense that this is far from the average home show, with an elevated level of upscale quality that is a good fit for our luxury brand,” he says. “I was especially impressed by the VIP fashion show.”

He subsequently did a walk-through of the show, which confirmed the high level of design in the more than 50

booths. Meeting Jason Cameron, chief executive officer of Toronto Fashion Academy, gave him some pointers to tweak his company’s booth design—typical of the kind of interaction and support reported by many participants. “We very much are looking forward to participating in the 2025 edition,” Burns says.

The sentiment was echoed by Andrea Granzotto, president of Doorland Group. “We really enjoyed exhibiting at the LLDS show,” he says. “It was a very luxurious, elevated show and this aligned very well with our brand. We are excited for next year’s show.”

Everyone attending can expect to see more and larger booths, each more stylish and innovative than the other. Exhibitors will vie to win the coveted Outstanding Booth

OUR GOAL IS TO EXCEED ALREADY ELEVATED EXPECTATIONS.

Design award, entitling them to a cover spread in the next Design Issue of Living Luxe Magazine. In 2024, Toronto design firm Wise Nadel Design emerged as the judges’ favourite.

Each day of the show will feature exciting runway fashion shows, all mounted in collaboration with Toronto Fashion Academy. The central JennAir Stage will be filled with powerhouse speakers in a captivating series of panel discussions and talks. Last year’s lineup of 20 luminaries included Karim Rashid, Lori Morris and Richard Wengle.

On Friday, April 25, LLDS once again hosts the ultraglam City Couture Gala in support of The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids). The select VIP audience attending will mingle over cocktails followed by a gourmet dinner and elite fashion show. Lipkowitz’s cherished passion project last year raised more than $124,000. “That is more than double what was raised the first year,” Lipkowitz says. “Our goal for 2025 is to attain a quarter million dollar mark over the three years. To date, we’ve raised $176,000.” Lipkowitz is the co-chair of the City Couture Gala, alongside Marialisa De Gasperis.

The highlight of the jam-packed Saturday, April 26, schedule: The second Living Luxe Awards Show. The glittering gala again will celebrate the country’s shining stars, with winners to be selected by a panel of five esteemed judges: Nadia Di Donato, vice-president and creative director of Liberty Entertainment Group; Montreal architect and designer Martha Franco; Lori Morris, the Toronto designer with an international following; Gianpiero Pugliese, founding principal of Audax, a distinguished firm specializing in architecture, interior design and construction; and awardwinning fashion entrepreneur and designer George Sully.

THE SHOW WILL FEATURE A CAREFULLY CURATED MIX OF DESIGN, HOME DECOR AND LIFESTYLE INSPIRATION, ALL AIMED AT PROVIDING AN IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE THAT FULLY ENGAGES EVERYONE.

The recipient of the 2024 Living Luxe Design Award for Brokerage Excellence was Barry Cohen Homes, renowned as a top luxury real estate team serving the Greater Toronto Area and led by Barry Cohen, who also spoke at the conference. “We were honoured to be recognized by Living Luxe from among a very high-profile field of competitors,” says Justin Cohen, vice president and broker at the firm. “Having the final day devoted to luxury real estate also was a boon for our company and the industry.”

As to the latter point, history will repeat itself on Sunday, April 27, as the schedule once more includes a Buzz Conference with the theme Buzz Luxury Secrets, hosted by Buzz Buzz Media Inc., the fourth of its kind. Lipkowitz says she’s excited about the collaboration with Virginia Munden and her daughter Isabella, the powerhouses and driving forces behind Buzz Buzz Media Inc.

The 2025 Living Luxe Design Show holds excitement for the expected throngs attending, which encompasses all types of people, including couples. Says Rhonda Thornton, owner and creative director of Bloomsbury Fine Cabinetry in Toronto’s Design District: “The lifestyle aspect of the show means there was something for everyone, from real estate to fashion to interior design to health and wellness to luxury automotive.”

To ensure LLDS is accessible, day passes and three-day passes are available at a modest cost. Organizers suggest checking the livingluxedesignshow.ca website for the updated schedule as more exciting events are added.

Thornton sums it up: “For anyone seeking to build or renovate a luxurious home, the Living Luxe Design Show provides direct access to the best in the industry. LLDS is the ideal place to start building a foundation for your home based on quality craftsmanship, elegant design and the latest innovations.”

HIS and Hers

A spa-inspired bathroom reno with a touch of Vogt gold might just be the ticket to escaping the winter blues.

By Julie Gedeon

Photography Courtesy of Vogt Industries

Let’s face it. There are basically two kinds of people in our world: those who feel great after having a shower every day and those who can’t wait for their next warm soak in a tub. Reka Kevsehi, the sales and marketing director of luxury fixture company Vogt Industries, is definitely a bath person. “My husband and children all know that at least once a week—usually on a Sunday afternoon—when I go into my ensuite bathroom and shut the door to leave me uninterrupted for at least an hour,” she says.

Kevsehi says that the soak, accompanied by some of her favourite music, a face mask and occasionally some candles, renews her without fail. “It’s really important to have some kind of regular ritual for self-

care,” she says. “It’s like escaping to a spa for a while, especially when it’s so cold outside.”

Before the holidays, the rush is in high gear to get renovations done. Once New Year comes and goes, however, it can get quieter for contractors and can be a good time to book a bathroom renovation before things pick up in the spring.

Standalone tubs are increasingly popular as more people look to indulge in a long, deep soak. Vogt Industries offers a wide range of styles and finishes in freestanding and wall-mounted fixtures to accompany tubs. “We see a lot more people opting for classic white or white-marbled bathrooms with brushed gold finishes on the fixtures for a timeless classic

You want something that’s special for both of the people using this bathroom if you want it to be a true spa getaway.

look,” Kevsehi says. Brushed gold is more popular than polished gold these days, but either will add that sparkle to an ensuite—not unlike a piece of fine jewellery. Matte black is still a frequent option for dramatic effect, especially against white tiles, but polished nickel and chrome are gaining favour because of their retro chic.

“Whatever you choose, we have all the accessories—single and double towel racks, toilet paper holders and robe hooks—in the same finishes and styles so that everything matches,” Kevsehi says. “And I highly recommend at least two robe hooks, if not more, to avoid clothing being left on the floor where there should only be fluffy or cushy rugs.”

A good spa retreat should also have something for the shower people. For Kevsehi’s husband, it’s the columned body jets in the shower stall. “Vogt Industries has a new stacked valve system that significantly strengthens the water flow from these jets,” she says. “My husband loves it.” Having two shower heads with separate controls and jets is an increasingly popular option with couples—and just might be the perfect gift to yourself or your partner this holiday season.

“You want something that’s special for both of the people using this bathroom if you want it to be a true spa getaway,” Kevsehi says. “It’s definitely worth the investment to make it a true retreat from the world for a while—that’s something we can all use.”

TOUCH FINISHING

With a mix of curves and sharp edges, French windows and warm, cozy colours, the duo behind Flair Interiors brings quiet luxury to a modern home.

By Eve Thomas

Photography by Shahin Mostafa

If one were to capture the signature style of designers Aysan Chavoshbashi and Farnaz Habibi in a word, it may well be “elegant.” Their spaces—from bright family homes to moody restaurants—blend contemporary luxury with timeless traditionalism, incorporating plenty of wood, marble and carefully orchestrated lighting for interiors that sing with harmony.

The duo behind Flair Interior Design has been creating stunning commercial and residential spaces across the GTA since they founded their firm in 2016. However, their creative collaborations go back to their days studying for their bachelor's degrees in interior design at Humber College, where they completed their first commercial project together.

Now, Chavoshbashi and Habibi have assembled a talented, highly educated and wellrounded team that tackles each new project with meticulous precision and fervour. “We stand out in this industry because of how capable and adept our team is,” Habibi says. “It’s not just that we have good taste; we bring a level of skill and quality to everything we do.” Flair offers a wide range of design services, from project management to vanity and millwork design, lighting and furniture selection to space planning and virtual walk-

throughs, making them a one-stop shop for practically any design need.

Chavoshbashi and Habibi used their multifaceted talents and services at the Golden Bay project they took on in Willowdale in 2023, a new build from luxury home builder and frequent partner Mondo Homes, designed for a married client with two college-age children. Though the client trusted their vision from the start, the pair notes that their process allows for plenty of opportunities to weigh in at every step during weekly meetings. It was this balance of creative freedom and open dialogue that resulted in a home that embodies relaxed elegance.

As always, Flair started with a conceptual design, creating 3D renderings and walkthroughs that brought the space to life. “This immersion allows the client to visualize the space before the construction phase even begins so they can experience how it functions and feels,” Habibi says. “It also gives them peace of mind because it’s another chance for their input.” The Flair team also provides sufficient technical drawings to bring their vision to life and keeps the client involved throughout, at every step embodying the company’s motto: “quality means doing it right when no one is looking.”

Their vision for the Golden Bay project, in two words: silent luxury. “We wanted to create a space that embodied luxury without being ostentatious,”

says Chavoshbashi. “Something beautiful and timeless that doesn’t wear you out just looking at it.” At Golden Bay, that vision translated into about 4,000 square feet of beautiful light-filled interiors, showcasing a mix of curves and sharp edges, French windows and fluted wall panels for a space that is both classic and current. Agreeing that ultra-sterile grey or all-white is out, the designers instead crafted a warm colour palette of cream, black and green that pops against light herringbone floors from First Class Flooring. Outside, a custom driveway inspired by a trip to the Gold Coast Residences is treated with stone slabs separated by grass for an impactful first impression.

The most iconic feature in the house may be the one-of-a-kind floating kitchen island, with a thick Italian porcelain top, cantilevered on a curved brass base. Work on it began at the same time as the framing of the house, and it’s connected to the structure’s beams. Despite its levitating appearance, Habibi insists it’s “safe to walk or even jump on.” Behind the island, warm white and wood cabinetry are bathed in buttery recessed lighting that makes the whole space feel inviting.

Another crucial undertaking was the home office, an increasingly important room as more work becomes home-based or hybrid. For this project, they wanted to create a space that was functional but felt connected

We wanted to create a space that embodied luxury without being ostentatious.

to the rest of the home, both physically and thematically. To do this, the designers created a glass room, outlined with a contemporary black grid that echoes the windows and doors throughout the home, positioned near the entryway to easily accommodate work visitors. With an abundance of natural light and two-toned wood built-in shelves, it sets a new standard for home offices everywhere. “It’s very photogenic,” says Habibi. “We’ve had other clients say they want a picturesque background in their office because they do a lot of virtual meetings.”

Throughout the Golden Bay residence, meticulous attention to detail imbues the space with that subtle sense of luxury that inspired the designers. For proof of this, just look up: The ceilings are decorated with trim and moulding that elevate the whole space, and sculptural lighting fixtures also add a bespoke feel. In the bedroom, three large arched panels conceal recessed lighting, acting as a unique, softly glowing headboard. Elsewhere, asymmetrical sconces, folded golden kitchen pendants and contemporary chandeliers add a hint of understated glamour to each room.

After the building’s completion, a time crunch meant calling in a favour with Conceptrum Furniture Concepts for some of the furniture sourcing. Flair styled the home with comfortable and contemporary furniture

such as a forest green settee, a sculptural glass-topped dining table and low-profile sofas, big enough to accommodate the whole family.

Ultimately, Flair’s efforts and precision from conception to finish paid off. “When the client came for a walk-through with his family, they were thoroughly amazed,” Chavoshbashi says. “They told us it was even better than they could have imagined.” And for Chavoshbashi and Habibi, creating spaces that exceed all expectations is what Flair is all about.

window

of opportunity

Not all windows are created equal. Here’s how EPAL North America is redesigning windows to better suit Canadian climates and changing trends.

By Susan Semenak

Photography by Frazier De Mesa

Architect and civil engineer Matina Chasioti can’t help but get excited while talking about one of her most recent projects. It’s a fabulous house in Yorkville that is being restored and reimagined by its owners. Chasioti’s company has been contracted to upgrade the original arched windows on the building’s facade with new efficient but historically accurate replacements. Behind that, the owners have added an extension that is wholly modern.

“Imagine an all-glass cube,” marvels Chasioti, CEO and managing director of EPAL North America, which specializes in aluminum windows and doors for high-end modern houses. “One of the panes of glass is 15 feet by 9 feet. Another is 16 feet by 10 feet. You see them arriving, carried on a crane, and can’t help but be impressed. You

have to have a lot of confidence in your frame to support such a big load.”

Chasioti and her husband Chris Stavros, who is a coowner of the company as well as its director of service, installation and support, have carved out a niche for themselves selling high-end EPAL windows and doors manufactured in Greece and designed for North American weather.

Two years ago, they took over the North American distribution rights for the product, which is known and respected across Europe, and set about making adjustments to better suit local conditions and meet CSA certification standards for North America. The first thing Chasioti and Stavros did was upgrade the windows’ thermal breaks to make them more stable in

extreme heat and cold. They added a third pane of glass for better insulation between layers of aluminum in their frames to further reinforce the structure while keeping the units as sleek and low-profile as possible.

Now, EPAL North America, which tests its products in Canada, has earned a reputation among architects and builders in the Greater Toronto area for its long-lasting and high-functioning, allaluminum and glass windows and doors, especially large-opening and corner windows and pivot doors. What sets them apart from their competitors, Chasioti says, is that EPAL makes all of its own components at the factory, enabling it to work with large panes of glass and to better meet its clients’ range of specifications.

“We designed our own window profiles so that they would meet Canadian needs. We tested all the glass and the seals and the frames to be sure they could withstand the Canadian extremes of heat and cold,” she explains. “All of our products are manufactured for continued durability. These are lifetime doors

and windows that are meant to last 25 years and more.”

She says that the best testament to EPAL’s quality and reliability is the fact that most of the builders the company works with have these very windows and doors in their own homes. As glass technology improves, windows and doors with large panes of glass have continued to trend. “Before, people worried about the cold if they were to have too much glass, but one day, maybe we will live in all-glass houses,” Chasioti says. “Now you can have the same U-value or better with a bigger window. Our glass is as wellinsulated as a wall.”

Beyond following trends, for Chasioti, it’s all about prioritizing working with clients on their individual needs. In Muskoka, she says, people want a triple pane of glass to keep the cold out and the heat in, but in downtown Toronto, they are just as likely concerned with noise and security. For others, letting the view in is the biggest priority; that’s what customers like about EPAL’s roll-up and pull-down screens and also its European-style “tilt and

All of our products are manufactured for continued durability. These are lifetime doors and windows that are meant to last 25 years and more.

turn” systems, with wider opening windows that make for better ventilation and easier cleaning.

In the past two years, Chasioti and Stavros have been working to make EPAL a leader in large-glass window construction. To do so has been a painstaking labour of love, involving

thickening glass panes, testing and redesigning the frames to carry more weight and improving installation techniques to accommodate bigger windows and doors. “Nobody else has frames strong enough for the kinds of projects we are able to take on,” Chasioti says.

Arare EWEL

This palatial property in Toronto’s Princess Anne Manor neighbourhood balances modern comforts with timeless style.

By Rosie Prata

Photography byTyler McKeag

The prestigious neighbourhood of Princess Anne Manor is one of the most distinguished addresses in Toronto—and it is easy to see why. Here, mature trees line gently winding streets, providing residents with both privacy and tranquility. Nestled amid such splendid surroundings is 31 Twyford Road, which is regarded as one of the area’s most architecturally significant homes. Built in 2017, this elegant house, now on the market, makes a marvellous first impression, welcoming residents with a circular motor court and two regal Japanese maple trees standing sentinel at the front of the home’s manicured gardens. The dramatic stone-and-brick facade, replete with classical columns framing the entryway, lends storybook character to the grand proportions of the home.

“The owners purchased directly from the builder after falling in love with the front elevation of the home,” says Cali Bajer, listing agent with Hammond International Properties, which is offering the esteemed property at $6.285 million. “The owner actually purchased the home while it was still in frames and was very hands-on with the interior design and fit out to ensure the highest quality and standards.”

Across a sprawling footprint of 4,892 square feet, 31 Twyford Road expresses a perfect aesthetic balance of timeless and modern style, with premium materials and contemporary conveniences—such as smart home technology—integrated throughout. Every effort has been made in the property’s thoughtful design to ensure comfort and

ease of living at each stage of a resident’s day.

When arriving by car, residents follow a heated driveway that leads to the spacious two-vehicle garage. When walking through the front door, the homeowner is met by a majestic two-storey hall that is airy and light-filled. “Inspiration from European design has been embedded in the arched ceiling features on the second level,” says Bajer, explaining the foyer’s design ethos. The pairing of exquisite white porcelain floors and a solid wood-and-glass staircase instantly creates a refined atmosphere, setting the tone for the experience of the rooms in the rest of the house. From the grand hall, residents may choose to proceed to the sumptuous living room, which boasts bay windows and a cozy fireplace, and the adjoining dining room, which looks out onto the home’s private backyard oasis. Or they may travel to the kitchen—an epicurean’s dream come true—which is outfitted with top-of-the-line appliances, a generously proportioned island and a clever dining nook that overlooks the garden and pool. “The kitchen was designed for functionality with ergonomics in mind,” Bajer says, pointing to the copious built-in storage space.

Connected to the kitchen is the amply sized family room, which is warmed by another fireplace. Each room on the main floor has 11-foot ceilings, including the study, which is positioned in a suitably serene zone away from other activity to allow for focus.

“The backyard is surrounded by mature landscaping, which creates

Privately ensconced within a sought-after neighbourhood, this rare jewel stands alone.

a private atmosphere with grounds shaped for entertaining,” says Bajer. Taking both the interior and exterior into consideration, this is an ideal residence for hosting memorable dinner parties for intimate groups or large holiday gatherings for family and friends. In the rear garden, lavish seating borders an immaculate swimming pool, and an adjacent pavilion allows for alfresco dining under a pergola.

On the lower level, which has heated tile floors throughout and opens to the backyard, there is a capacious recreation room with a fireplace, bar island, wet bar and dedicated wine cellar—the perfect place to play music, host movie nights or watch sports with friends. This level is also home to a private gym and sauna, so residents always have an opportunity to stay fit and practise self-care.

On the upper level, residents can retire to the principal suite, which is outfitted with a fireplace, ensuite lavish spa bath, a balcony that overlooks the backyard, and an expansive walk-in closet with its own island and dressing table. Each of the three additional suites has its own walk-in closet and ensuite bathroom with a shower. In addition to the laundry room located in the basement, an additional laundry room is tucked tidily into a corner of the upper level.

Popular with families, the well-respected community of Princess Anne Manor neighbourhood offers an array of boutique shops, good schools and fine restaurants in the vicinity, close access to the airport and proximity to

St. George’s Golf and Country Club, one of Toronto’s most exclusive private golf clubs and a former host site of the RBC Canadian Open golf championship. “Privately ensconced within a sought-after neighbourhood, this rare jewel stands alone,” Bajer says. While its setting is certainly magnificent, the architectural marvel of 31 Twyford Road has an undeniable sparkle that sets it apart from the crowd and is sure to captivate many.

ELEVATED Entertaining

A homey bungalow gets a makeover by Terra Firma Design, transforming it into a bright hosting haven.

By Charlotte Bushnell-Boates

Photography by Rob Holowka of Birdhouse Media

When Lisa Aiken, founder of Terra Firma Design, was tasked with creating a forever home for a couple in The Kingsway neighbourhood of Toronto, she knew just what to do. Terra Firma transformed the two-bedroom bungalow into a luxurious space entirely customized for the clients and their lifestyle, which features frequently hosting family and friends. “When they found the house and showed me pictures, it was clear it needed a renovation to fit their lifestyle and what they wanted,” explains Aiken. “I had worked with the clients many times before, and they asked me to renovate it in a way that would be customized and perfect for them.”

The first step was adjusting the layout of the house to make the flow more natural and the living spaces feel more expansive. Naturally, Aiken partnered with her husband, Andrew Smith of

Andrew Smith Contracting, for the renovations throughout the house. Beyond the layout itself, the doors, windows and blinds were also redone, giving the space a fresh feel.

The entrance to the home is airy and welcoming, with a modern Art Deco-style armoire in the foyer that offers storage for guests’ coats. With fluted exterior panels and two oversized half-moon handles from Richelieu Hardware, the armoire acts as a statement piece, hinting at the impeccable design within the rest of the house.

Within the primary areas of the home—the kitchen, dining and living room—each element was designed by Terra Firma with hosting and gathering in mind. The kitchen was expanded, making a long, open space to connect it to both the living room and dining area and creating additional storage. “The whole

"THE WHOLE PROJECT WAS REALLY ABOUT TAKING ALL OF THE SURFACES AND AREAS AROUND IT AND CUSTOMIZING IT FOR EVERYTHING IN THEIR WISH LIST."

kitchen, dining room and family room flows so beautifully. I was really careful to make sure people could stand behind the couch but still be part of the kitchen,” Aiken says. “People can be both in the dining room and in the living room, yet still feel together, all while having seating for a ton of people. The kitchen is the heart of the home, and I really wanted to make that kitchen expand into their whole living space.”

The bright and cheery kitchen features custom white cabinetry from Cameo Kitchens with brass handles chosen by Aiken, which complements the quartzite countertops

and backsplash. A long kitchen island—also clad in quartzite—offers seating for guests or on-the-go breakfasts while a dining area with a massive dark wood table overlooks two small recessed arches on the far wall, tucking away a drinks station in one and a small desk in the other.

On the opposite side of the kitchen, the living room is centred around a wide sectional sofa, a fireplace with a stone surround and a large picture window that overlooks the backyard and pool. “Everything was custom in the living space. Even the couch I had

"IT’S ONE OF THOSE HOUSES THAT’S SO EASY TO FALL IN LOVE WITH, WITH WONDERFUL LIGHT AND A VERY ORGANIC, SOOTHING FEEL. IT FEELS LIKE A REAL FOREVER HOME."

custom-made because of the space constraints,” says Aiken, noting that new lighting and a fireplace were also added. “We even changed the elevation of the roof line so the whole living space would flow better.”

A moody powder room, illuminated by a biophilic curved lighting feature, is clad in grasscloth wallpaper—dark blue on the walls and gold on the ceiling.

Both sophisticated and comfortable, the primary bedroom is tastefully appointed with custom gold-accented cabinetry, hand-painted gold-leafed wallpaper and pale-pink bed linens. Steps from the master bedroom, a playful walk-in closet and dressing room is adorned with a fuchsia Persian rug, statement lighting and a baby pink accent wall.

A cozy family room is tucked away downstairs, made perfect for hanging out with a mid-

century-style fireplace and a large low sectional. In addition to a contemporary black and white bathroom with sleek marble flooring, this level also has a laundry room and a second kitchen, perfect for easy movie snacks.

Outdoors, the homeowners and their guests can enjoy an expansive backyard with a large swimming pool and ample spaces for gathering thanks to new furnishings carefully selected by Aiken. An outdoor kitchen makes summer entertaining a breeze. “The whole project was really about taking all of the surfaces and areas around it and customizing it for everything in their wish list,” Aiken says. “It was a wonderful reveal when the clients finally arrived to see it—a big unveiling. It’s one of those houses that’s so easy to fall in love with, with wonderful light and a very organic, soothing feel. It feels like a real forever home.”

CUSTOMS Family

Jafari Construction Group continues a nearly 20-year legacy through its one-of-a-kind luxury homes. For a testament to its excellence, just look at 31 Hedgewood Road.

By Alyssa Hirose

Photography by Mediarama Studios

You could say that Behnam Jafari was built for construction— after all, his family has been in the industry for over half a century. He credits his passion for creating welcoming, long-lasting spaces to his father, with whom he worked as he got his start building high-rise developments in Iran. “I’ve always been in construction, from the moment I remember,” Jafari says. “My father’s dedication and hard work made a deep impression on me.”

Jafari moved to Canada in 1999 and founded his own company, Jafari Construction Group (JCG), in Toronto in 2005. “I established JCG to

continue our family’s commitment to excellence in construction,” he says.

In its nearly 20 years in business, JCG has produced an impressive portfolio of luxury custom homes—stunning structures with such features as swoonworthy walk-in closets, one-of-a-kind wine cellars and glass elevators. Extensive experience leads to realistic estimates and consistent efficiency (two qualities that can’t be expected industry-wide; just ask almost anyone who has had a home built or renovated). “Our commitment to deliver projects on time and within budget, along with our meticulous attention to detail, truly sets us apart from others,” Jafari says.

“OUR GOAL IS TO CONTINUE GROWING AND ADAPTING, ENSURING WE MEET THE DEMANDS OF AN EVER-CHANGING MARKET WHILE MAINTAINING OUR COMMITMENT TO QUALITY AND INNOVATION.”

The owner takes pride in his company’s dedication to the clients it serves, even after the keys have been handed over. If any issues arise— whether it be months or years after the house has been built—JCG is immediately on the case. “We always come back to them,” says Jafari. “It’s kind of like a lifetime guarantee.” And it goes both ways: some clients return to JCG a decade or more after their first home is completed, eager to work with the company again on their next big project. Then, of course, there are the homes themselves. JCG’s 31 Hedgewood Road project, a wide-windowed architectural marvel in Toronto’s quiet Hoggs Hollow neighbourhood, is 6,000 square feet of airy elegance— the perfect example of the custom modern spaces that the company is known for. Having plenty of natural light was important to the clients, so JCG and Urbanscape Architects worked together to bring in the sunshine. There are floor-to-ceiling windows in all of the main living spaces, perhaps most impressively in the home’s front entrance, where the double-height ceiling allows for double the light. And yet, those windows are still outshone: the room’s undeniable

showstopper is the fireplace. Designed and modelled by Harmen Design, it’s a parametric wall that flows effortlessly down two storeys, with subtle cascading ripples that make it look almost liquid. Despite its serene appearance, Jafari says that installing it was an ordeal; the structure weighs 3,000 kilograms and arrived in 60 pieces. The team took a week to assemble it, but it was undeniably worth it. “It catches everyone’s eye when you walk into the house,” he says.

It’s true that guests in this home will likely fall in love with the sophisticated, stylish fireplace first. But that’s not to say that the home is lacking in more playful amenities. Downstairs, the 2,500-square-foot basement holds a home theatre, a gym, a sauna, a rec room, a nanny room and lots of built-in storage.

Outside, the team worked with Florance Landscape Design to create a spa-like oasis, with a swimming pool, sleek gazebo and full outdoor kitchen. “It’s a wonderful spot to unwind,” Jafari says. It’s tough to imagine being stressed in such tranquil surroundings.

The 31 Hedgewood project and other gorgeous homes like it will

be showcased at Jafari Construction Group’s booth at the Living Luxe Design Show, April 24 to 27 at the Toronto Congress Centre. “I’m honoured to be part of this amazing show,” Jafari says, adding that visitors to the JCG booth will have the opportunity to engage with him directly and ask any questions they have about the construction process. “It’s a wonderful chance to connect with potential clients and share our passion for creating exquisite homes.”

In the future, Jafari will aim to expand his business throughout Ontario, embracing more clients and bigger multi-unit projects alongside his sister Mojgan and brother Babak who are co-owner and managing partner of JCG, respectively. “We’re now exploring the development side of the industry,” he says. It’s a callback to his first construction projects in Iran. “Our goal is to continue growing and adapting,” he says, “ensuring we meet the demands of an ever-changing market while maintaining our commitment to quality and innovation.”

CHIC UNIQUE RUSTIC

Historic charm meets modern sophistication in an authentic and stylish log residence in Collingwood.

By Susan Kelly

Photography by Negin Milani

From Aspen to Osaka, luxurious log homes have become a trend, combining the tranquility of cabin living with stunning design and the upscale comforts of modern retreats. In this trend, an exceptional seven-bedroom property in Collingwood is ahead of the curve. “It originally was an authentic log cabin built in the early 1900s,” says listing agent Christina Clavero, co-founder of The CB Group and co-managing director for the Oakville office of The Agency, an international high-end real estate brokerage firm. “Then an architecturally sophisticated addition created ample light-filled spaces while still preserving the cozy, rustic ambience.”

The team—Christina Clavero, Carlos Clavero and David Bakowsky— co-founders of The CB Group under The Agency umbrella are excited to add this to the long list of multi-million-dollar luxury homes they have brokered. For this project, which is co-listed alongside Alexandra Bennett with Royal Lepage Locations North, the heritage cabin was transplanted from its original Ottawa location in the 1980s by Ian

Smith. Before passing away in 2014, he built around 200 highend log homes and chalets throughout Ontario.

It was in 2020 that the log cabin underwent a dramatic transformation with a well-considered new addition. It created a seamless flow between old and new and increased the floorplan to an impressive 5,356 square feet. From the outside, the home is truly grandiose in scope. From inside the front door, the first impression is less cramped cabin, more log castle à la Château Montebello, though more contemporary. Passing a grand wooden staircase, one enters the truly great room beyond with woodbeamed, 20-foot-high cathedral ceilings. “It's truly breathtaking—everyone that walks in is just so impressed,” Clavero says. “We once hosted 65 people at an event there, and there was plenty of space for everyone.”

with other original features such as the quaint, rustic log-andmortar walls, has been beautifully preserved, an approach meticulously continued throughout the home.

It's truly breathtaking.

At the heart of this stunning home lies a chef’s kitchen with two nine-foot-long islands—one perfect for prep work, while the other invites residents and guests to pull up a stool. Full-height Shaker-style cabinetry stylishly provides ample storage, and an accent wall covered in barn board adds a rustic touch. Top-ofthe-line Thermador appliances, including three dishwashers and a wine fridge that can accommodate more than 150 fine vintages, are among the kitchen’s exceptional features.

The ceilings are painted pristine white to reflect more of the light provided by the sparkling crystal chandeliers and expansive windows. Elegant white oak hardwood flooring runs underfoot, with inset radiant heating to help keep winter chills at bay. As does the stately wood-burning brick fireplace, which, along

The magnificently executed addition also expands the number of bedrooms to seven. “What’s nice is you have separation between them,” Carlos Clavero says. “There are three bedrooms in the log cabin, three more in the new addition, plus a separate guest, in-law or nanny suite over one of the two double-car garages.” A must-see is the spectacular principal suite with a large dressing room, luxurious ensuite bath and

private access to a side patio.

Situated on just under an acre, the fully fenced outdoor space includes a covered outdoor dining area with a stone pathway leading to the heated saltwater pool and hot tub area. There is also a firepit with a limestone patio, further expanding the options for luxe outdoor living for residents and their guests. “This property is designed for year-round outdoor living and entertaining on a grand scale,” he adds.

“Another major benefit of this property is its proximity,” adds Bakowsky. “It’s a short five-minute drive from downtown Collingwood and is very close to the Blue Mountain ski area and other top resorts like Osler Bluff, Georgian Peaks and Craigleith,

not to mention world-class golf courses and beaches.”

In addition to offering exceptional value as a superb principal residence or four-season recreational property, the luxury log residence at 4 Buckingham Boulevard also presents solid investment potential. In terms of rental income alone, it could net in the tens of thousands of dollars per month, he believes. The property is listed at $3.199 million, and interested buyers are invited to contact any of the above agents at The CB Group or Alexandra Bennet of Royal LePage. “This property is truly unique and will appeal to the buyer who wants the rustic charm of an authentic heritage log cabin along with all the amenities and luxuries of a new-build home,” Christina Clavero says.

The Akari Collection

THE MARKET

The Willow and

Plush

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Experience the perfect combination of comfort, art and style with the Willow collection and Plush sofa. The Willow lighting collection brings modern elegance to your home. Bernhardt’s Plush collection offers deep, comfortable seating for the perfect balance of style and luxury.

Cartier Made in Canada Dining Collection: The Cartier Dining Table combines modern simplicity with sleek design. Its smooth, oval wood top brings warmth, while the bold, black slatted legs provide a striking contrast and structural stability. Perfect for contemporary dining areas, the Cartier table effortlessly balances style and functionality, making it a versatile centrepiece for gatherings and everyday dining.

DECORIUM

363 Supertest Road, North York decorium.com 416-736-6120

The new E8 from JURA has been upgraded with the Professional Aroma Grinder 2, a 3.5-inch screen and 17 coffee specialties at the touch of a button. Simple to use, the new E8 combines delicious coffee results with a sleek modern design.

JURA

115 Matheson Boulevard East, Mississauga ca.jura.com/en 905-501-8600

The Mond Collection exudes celestial elegance and simplicity, offering diverse spout, handle and base colour options with 16 customizable accent hues. Fluted carvings enrich texture and symmetry, creating pieces that are both timeless and gracefully refined.

VOGT INDUSTRIES

6767 Pacific Circle, Mississauga vogtindustries.com 1-888-215-8648

The Coco Sofa and Swivel Chair Elegant are comfortable and ideal for both family rooms and living rooms. The fun swivel chair is ideal for any space. Made in Canada and available in your choice of fabric, the sofa is $2,499 and the swivel chair $1,299.

ZILLI HOME INTERIORS

672 Chrislea Road, Woodbridge zillihome.com 289-268-0020

Tantalize in tanzanite! Custom designed 18K white gold statement drop earrings featuring exquisite pear-shaped tanzanites (9.83ctw) are accented by beautiful brilliant and shield-cut diamonds.

FRIDA FINE JEWELLERY BY CARRIE LAMB

1477 Lower Water Street, Halifax, NS frida.ca 902-492-2947

Michaelsen Made in Canada: The Michaelsen Sectional offers a perfect blend of style and comfort, featuring a sleek, modern design with deep cushions and plush pillows for ultimate relaxation. Available in alternative fabrics and sectional configurations, the sofa allows you to customize it to suit your personal style and space requirements.

DECORIUM

363 Supertest Road, North York decorium.com 416-736-6120

Lessie Dining Table: A porcelain top with two extendable leaves and a beautiful black metal base makes this fresh, fun and ideal for small spaces and lively kitchens. The Lessie Dining Table is $1,999.

ZILLI HOME INTERIORS 672 Chrislea Road, Woodbridge zillihome.com 289-268-0020

Elevate your space with the LAPIS collection, a stunning selection of glazed terracotta available in 27 colours. These wall tiles bring a unique character and depth to any environment. Each tile features a distinctive design formed by six elegant semicircles, creating a captivating ribbed surface that plays with light and shadow, adding a dynamic quality to your walls.

LAPIS allows you to express your creativity and personalize your space effortlessly. Measuring eight inches by 12 inches, these tiles are not only visually striking but also practical—no grouting required! Whether used in a residential or commercial setting, LAPIS tiles make a bold statement that enhances any room with their three-dimensional allure. Redefine your space with LAPIS—where art meets functionality.

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THE MOST BEAUTIFUL WINDOWS AND DOORS IN THE WORLD

WHERE TIMELESS DESIGN STARTS WITH A SKETCH