Living Luxe Magazine - Summer 22 • Vol 4 Issue 3

Marble Heaven – Original in silk & wool

Marble Heaven : Beautiful abstract clouds and colours fill the sky. Soft tones subtly fill the movements of the design that extends in all directions.

“A beautiful space starts from the ground up with a weavers art…”

– Michael Pourvakil

Ambient – Original in silk & wool

Shadow Raspberry in silk & wool

Ambient : A watercolour collage that has us hearing gentle music all around. The visual ambience create the organic effect of paint blending with the splatter.

Shadow Raspberry : Softly blurred lines of shimmering raspberry silk spread across the murky mist design. This rug is handknotted in fine Tibetan wool with pure Chinese silk in 100 knot.

FLAGSHIP SHOWROOM

1400 Castlefield Ave. Toronto, ON M6B 4N4 Tel: 416.929.7929 www.weaversart.com

The Jacob & Co. Estribo Diamond Bangle now available at KNAR - Inspired by Andalusian Stallions, and the ornate detailing of traditional Spanish tack, Jacob & Co.’s stirrup or “Estribo” collection, offers a bold, yet elegant take on the exquisite adornment practices of Spanish equestrians.

10 Marmac Dr., Etobicoke, ON M9W 1E6

No matter what the indulgence, your flooring will truly make your space a sanctuary worth coming home to.

The first step to cultivating your design begins in our 10,000-square-foot designer gallery showroom, the largest in Ontario. Offering over 30 years of industry leading experience combinded with unparalleled cutomer service.

STRESSLESS EMILY POWER SECTIONAL

With its sleek lines and contemporary design, the Stressless Emily set invites you to sit down and relax with seat modules that come with an adjustable headrest. Customize yours and choose from an array of leathers and configurations available in-store.

COMING THIS FALL LIVINGLUXEEXHIBITION.CA

PRESENTED BY

OFFERED AT 8,380M 1 HUCKLEBERRY LANE

THE FINE ART OF LIFE.

One of the most prominent estates in Canada. In the heart of Bayview Glen, Ontario, the home represents the creative vision of an award-winning architect. Remarkable in size and innovation, aglow with contemporary qualities, the resplendent interior space presents living and entertaining options, whether for a serious art collection, hosting an elegant soirée, or simply enjoying a casual lifestyle amid an ambiance of sublime luxury.

The home’s rooms are introduced by a grand entrance. The living room and dining room feature architectural ceiling and wall treatments, nestled besides a state-of-the-art custom kitchen and second kitchen. Heightening the appointments are a family room, theatre, library, elevator, finished lower level with dedicated wine rooms for the wine connoisseur, exercise room, bar, and games room.

The owner’s suite is a sanctuary with a sitting room, dressing room and spa bath. Four additional suites and one on the lower level complete the experience.

This estate is a rare find of architectural significance and modern luxury only associated with the most notable neighborhoods. In close proximity to The Bayview Golf and Country club, one of Canada’s top 100 courses.

The Art Of Surgery

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

#1 In Luxury For A Reason

No one has sold more luxury real estate in this decade than Barry Cohen Estates. * The reason is obvious. In addition to our unmatched negotiation skills, we provide the greatest exposure for your home. By utilizing the very latest in print and online marketing strategies enhanced by our exclusive international affiliations, more local and foreign buyers see our homes. Simply put, we do more for our clients than our competition. The proof is in the numbers.

ESTABLISHED IN 1990 FOR OVER 30 YEARS, WE HAVE SPECIALIZED IN BESPOKE CABINETRY AND FURNITURE.

Exchange Signature Residences is the apex of Exchange District and the final opportunity for elevated living downtown Mississauga. Enjoy sophisticated finishes in this best-in-class location, built by a trusted developer, while surrounded by a world of urban amenities at your door.

EuroStar Windows & Doors are designed with acoustical glass to guarantee optimum sound insulation as well as security.

55 Administration Rd. Units 22-24

Concord, Ontario 416.633.5921

1400 Plains Rd. E Unit 9 Burlington, Ontario 905.581.4015

18 Enterprise Ave. Unit J Ottawa, Ontario 613.731.6224

We are inspired by the unique vision of each client for their dream home.

With the convergence of polished design and optimal performance, you will find what you need with us.

Inspire Create Perform

FROM THE QUARRIES

www.stoneandonyx.com info@stoneandonyx.com @stone.and.onyx

PHOTOGRAPHY BY NATALIE HAYES (TOP

BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

196 Evans Avenue Etobicoke 416-881-7739 terrafirmadesign.ca terrafirmadesign_lisa

TERRA FIRMA DESIGN

BARRY COHEN

REALTOR

“I love boating and playing golf under the bright summer sun.”

DARLENE JANEIRO

DESIGNER

“I love early walks by the lake before heading to the studio in the morning. Seeing the sun rising motivates and energizes me for the day ahead.”

LORI MORRIS

DESIGNER

“Summer love. The beauty of nature shines in the summer. This makes me so happy. The romantic air, the timeless beauty of our surroundings, everyone is smiling, the sunsets, the beautiful sunrise, together we shine.”

LIBBY WILDMAN

FINANCIAL EXPERT

“Summer is a time when we break out of our shells and shift into everything new: new recipes, new clothes and even new decor for our homes and cottages. This change is important as it refreshes our souls.”

BARRY COHEN HEADSHOT COURTESY OF BARRY COHEN HOMES, LORI MORRIS PHOTOGRAPHY BY GEORGE PIMENTEL, LIBBY WILDMAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY PAULA OWEN, DARLENE JANEIRO PHOTOGRAPHY BY LARRY ARNAL

Ma ers What Really

I hope my letter finds everyone healthy, happy and strong. It is finally summertime. The weather is beautiful and it’s time to get outside with our families and friends. I hope you take the time to enjoy spending time with the people who matter most to you.

During COVID-19, I reflected deeply on what truly matters in life. It is family and true friendships that are important and should be harnessed and nurtured. COVID-19 has taught me to appreciate those around me and to take the time to smell the roses. Sometimes we forget even basic things due to life stresses or just being too busy. I will try my very best to change that. I will remember to enjoy the moment with my children as I watch them grow into the wonderful people they are so quickly becoming. I am very proud of them. They have developed into beautiful souls, and they have shown me so much love and kindness. We can learn a lot from our children’s purity and resilience.

In May, we hosted approximately 400 guests at our event at Toronto’s historic Liberty Grand. It was truly remarkable to see our clients, contributors, sponsors, designers, readers and celebrities who have supported us through our journey. Without your support, this magazine wouldn’t have been able to survive and grow. We are so grateful to everyone for partaking in this event and and a big thank you goes out to our special sponsors, partners and our team.

In this issue, we feature two beautiful, strong, compassionate philanthropists. Suzanne Rogers and Sylvia Mantella are dear friends who have supported numerous charity initiatives, and are supporters of our local fashion scene, helping it to thrive in the Canadian marketplace.

It is always important to give back wherever and however we can. This issue is also about compassion and helping others, as I feel everyone can give back and show kindness with a friendly smile or words of support to each other. We have also featured wonderful events in this issue, including highlights of our Living Luxe event, KARE Toronto’s grand opening, and wonderful charities such as CANFAR and SickKids. It is an honour to showcase their wonderful initiatives and we will proudly continue to do so with our fabulous philanthropy editor, Joan Kelley Walker.

I hope you have a fabulous summer and create lots of meaningful memories.

Until the next time,

Jennifer Lipkowitz Publisher

Summer artwork painted by Jennifer’s child.

INTERIOR SPACE AND DOOR DESIGNED BY FERRIS RAFAULI

Stop and smell the Peonies

I’m writing this over the May long weekend, and like you, I’m elated it’s (almost) summer. I’m so happy to see balmy temperatures in the 20s. I’m thrilled to throw on my flip flops and sunglasses when I leave the house (see my favourite pairs of shades this season on page 142) to grab an iced coffee. And I just love to see my trees in full bloom. But now that we’re here, I have a confession to make: I have a black thumb when it comes to growing, and keeping my garden in good form is, well, something I stress over every time this season rolls around.

Some of this garden stress could be because I grew up with a master gardener. (Okay, my mother isn’t really a “master gardener,” but I thought she might’ve been when I was a kid.) I thought my mom always had the nicest, most lush garden on the street. (My father, on the other hand, took great pride in his meticulously manicured lawn. He didn’t like kids — his or anyone else’s — on his gorgeous grass, but I digress.) My parents’ garden in the backyard was and is one of my favourite spots. It’s just a small city yard but one that really packs a punch when it comes to pretty, perfectly planted flowers and bushes. My mom took great care in planning where each shrub, flower and herb would go. Her green thumb has proven itself over the last three decades with a garden full of robust peonies (my personal favourite), spherically perfect hydrangeas, the greenest hostas, aromatic lilacs, bright black-eyed Susans and so many other varieties.

So, when it comes time each year to fill my two huge planters on our front porch in front of our house, guess who I call? I’m quite capable of filling my own pots, thank you very much, but I’m convinced my mom and her green thumb bring a little something special to the way my begonias grow.

Enjoy the season, stay safe and see you next time.

Lisa van de Geyn Editor-in-Chief

Sometimes, you just need a little less sunshine in your day. Sonnette with PowerView® Automation allows you to schedule your shades to move throughout the day with the touch of a button, a tap on a mobile device or the sounds of your voice. So let the sun shine in, or not, your call.

Sometimes, you just need a little less sunshine in your day. Sonnette with PowerView® Automation allows you to schedule your shades to move throughout the day with the touch of a button, a tap on a mobile device or the sounds of your voice. So let the sun shine in, or not, your call.

TM Own the Light.

TM Own the Light.

Sometimes, you just need a little less sunshine in your day. Sonnette with PowerView® Automation allows you to schedule your shades to move throughout the day with the touch of a button, a tap on a mobile device or the sounds of your voice. So let the sun shine in, or not, your call.

TM Own the Light.

There really is such a thing as too much sunshine.

There really is such a thing as too much sunshine.

Sonnette™

There really is such a thing as too much sunshine.

LIVINGLUXE.CA

While our glossy Living Luxe print issues grace Carrera coffee tables, piano-lacquered bedside tables and teak spa loungers every two months, readers can now sign up to receive our monthly newsletter, full of a selection of stories from our current issue, issues past, as well as web-exclusive content you’ll only get on livingluxe.ca.

If you’re behind on your Living Luxe reading, don’t fret; our past issues are online now. Not only will you find gorgeous homes by some of our favourite designers, you’ll get to meet many of Toronto’s most inspirational creators — designers, architects, builders and artists at the top of their fields and they’re making a mark in our city.

DAREX STUDIO

IMAGE),

BY GILLIAN JACKSON (RIGHT IMAGE)

LUXE LIFE

TRENDS

PHILANTHROPY — JEWELLERY —

“I wanted to fill this area so it could be used for overflow dining, plus I knew it would look stunning from both the inside and the outside of the client’s condo. I started with this incredible urn, then found the perfect antique console table. I filled the urn with white flowers and long, curly artificial greenery. It makes an incredibly beautiful and lush outdoor dining room.”

—Lisa Aiken, owner of Terra Firma Design Inc. @terrafirmadesign_lisa

WHAT’S NEW

By Silvana Longo

Stratford Festival

Celebrates a Milestone Anniversary

Renowned for its world-class Shakespearean theatre productions, along with classical and contemporary complements from the world’s most notable playwrights, the Stratford Festival marks its 70th season this year. To inaugurate this anniversary, the new Tom Patterson Theatre opens in June; a purpose-built 77,000-square-foot elongated thrust stage theatre designed by Hariri Pontarini Architects. The theatre has already won two international architecture awards: the 2021 Architecture MasterPrize Best of the Best Award, Cultural Architecture and the 2022 Civic Trust Award (UK). The new theatre will house its first production, “Richard III,” this summer – the same play that launched the festival in 1953. stratfordfestival.ca

Scents and Sensibility

Riau Canada, a Montreal-based social impact enterprise, known for their handcrafted eco-friendly candles, launched four new seasonal fragrances this spring with elegant scents that pervade the Riau Islands in Indonesia. Apple Blossom is fresh and sweet, Blue Hydrangea is sturdy yet delightful, Lavender is a rich all-time favourite and Freesia Bouquet has a heavenly floral scent. The company’s mission is to help marginalized families bounce back from hardship Riau partners with organizations to hire people who have gone through difficult times and need help reintegrating into the workforce. The do-good company also donates a portion of the proceeds to reintegration services at homeless shelters and other organizations.

Love Your Skin

We recently discovered a fabulous new elixir that nourishes and protects our delicate skin. The Ultimate Glow Elixir is an anti-aging oil that protects and heals the face and decollete. Blended with 100 percent pure botanical antioxidant-rich cold-pressed oils high in vitamins, minerals and betacarotene, your skin will glow when you apply this oil. arabellatrasca.com

New For Your Wine Fridge

Nothing says summer like cracking open a chilled bottle of Rosé for a pre-dinner, patio meetup with friends. Why not indulge your love of the light, sprightly wine with two choices from Mission Hill Family Estate straight out of the Okanagan Valley? First up: The Reserve Rosé is a summer bouquet of raspberries, peach and freshly cut watermelon. The effervescence and bright acidity develop into an uplifting and crisp finish. For lovers of sparkling Rosé, the Exhilaration Brut Rosé cultivated from the most southern stretch of the vineyards with a distinct microclimate lends unique flavour to the Pinot Noir used in this bubbly option. Cheers to an amazing summer! missionhillwinery.com

City dwellers who crave an outdoor sanctuary will be inspired by the latest book by Toronto artist Virginia Johnson called Creating a Garden Retreat: An Artist’s Guide to Planting an Outdoor Sanctuary. Touted as a love letter to gardening, complete with inspirational takeaways on how to create the foundation for a basic outdoor space, Johnson takes the reader on her own garden journey, from blank slate to dreamscape. Over the years, she transformed a small, narrow Toronto city lot into a garden that is carefree and welcoming. She explains her process with ease and clarity, bringing her ideas to life through words and illustrations so that readers can be encouraged and empowered to start their own garden journeys. indigo.ca

Christine Rezvanian Fashion Editor

BEAUTIFUL DESIGNS TO WELCOME SUMMER

Tanya Taylor defines the season with her stunning collection of hand-painted prints, vibrant colours and exquisite accents.

By Christine Rezvanian Portrait by Isabella Rezvanian

Tanya Taylor is a Canadian designer based in New York. Her fashion brand gives unique and refreshing energy. Her designs are modern, artful and liberating. Using her passion for art, she creates pieces that use colour, texture, and original hand-painted prints to create her sizeinclusive styles. Taylor creates styles for all women to express themselves, confidently and creatively. This summer collection is no exception.

: Tanya Taylor Noella Dress

In vibrant citrus orange, the Cecil top is beautifully designed in lightweight cotton. With smocking, a cut-out and a tie to adjust coverage, it has gorgeous detailing.

Designed in a lightweight poplin, Aileen is a feminine crop top in the gorgeous Lily Haze print. This summer top has a fitted bodice and a universally flattering silhouette. Wear this with the matching Lara skirt or solid pants to complement.

Lara Skirt in Lily Haze print

The Amaria dress is an effortless mini-dress. Featuring lightweight cotton poplin, a subtle V-neckline and decorative gathers along the bust and shoulders, it is exactly what you want in a versatile dress.

The Tiana dress is the epitome of summer mini-dresses. Featuring a fitted bodice, subtle sweetheart neckline, puff sleeves and a gathered tiered mini-skirt, it has a universally flattering silhouette.

The Adelaide dress features a jersey bodice and cotton poplin throughout the sleeves and skirt, beautiful for summer. The fit-and-flare style has the comfort of a t-shirt body, with gorgeous voluminous sleeves and details to take you from relaxed patio lunch to date night.

The Sloane top is a gorgeous lightweight cotton poplin, featuring pleats along a fixed bodice. The voluminous flutter sleeves are perfect for a fresh summer look. Pair this top with any Tanya Taylor Lara skirt or pant for date night or a patio lunch.

but gathers

The Lara skirt is a figure-grazing midi-skirt in Lily Haze print. This effortless but chic style has an elasticized waistband and tiered silhouette. You can mix and match with the matching Aileen top or any Tanya Taylor solid top.

Taylor

STANDING THE TEST OF TIME

Producing incredible timepieces the world has never seen before is a hallmark of Jacob & Co., a luxury brand that has been a leader in watchmaking for nearly 40 years.

By Lisa van de Geyn

Thestory behind the brilliant, innovative, exquisitely designed jewellery and timepieces created by Jacob & Co. is one of those feel-good, inspirational tales that seems more like a dream than reality. That’s the story of Jacob Arabo — the creative genius, founder and chairman of Jacob & Co. His successful eponymous brand has designed and manufactured the most impressive timepieces for decades, and his passion for watches is second to none.

Arabo was 13 when his father gave him a special watch: It showed two time zones and had a gold-plated map of the world on the dial. And so began his fascination with timepieces. At 14, he and his family left Uzbekistan for the US, hoping for a better life. His first summer in America, he worked as a watchmaker’s apprentice. “He soon learned to take a watch apart and see how they work from the inside. His passion for watches just grew from there as he became acquainted with how elaborate and complicated watch mechanisms can be, even on the simplest of designs,” says Benjamin Arabov, CEO of Jacob & Co. and Arabo’s son.

Taking into consideration his passion for watches, it wasn’t long before Arabo decided to learn more about jewellery-making. Initially, he worked in making mass-market jewellery, but found it wasn’t creatively stimulating at all. In his off-hours, he let his imagination run wild and started designing and manufacturing pieces in his bedroom. “My father has always had a massive entrepreneurial streak with a natural eye and talent for designing beautiful jewellery. Having worked in that factory made him adamant that he only wanted to create stunning original pieces that are as removed from mass-produced as possible,” Arabov says.

The ASTRONOMIA TOURBILLON created in 18kt rose gold and sapphire crystal case features the Iconic

patented timepiece-differential gear system. An unprecedented and ground-breaking four-arm movement

& the 288-facet Jacob-Cut diamond and Magnesium Globe turning every 30 seconds. Unique differentials

tion, no matter where it is on the rotation. Two 18kt rose gold lift-out rotating “bows” on the caseback are

TOP IMAGE:

gravitational patented triple-axis tourbillon and

constantly turns around the dial every 10 minutes

ensure the time displays in the correct 12/6 orienta-

used to wind the watch and set the time.

People started taking notice of his designs and workmanship and his side gig became more lucrative than his full-time job. After dabbling in jewellery-making, he returned to his original love of watches and designed the “Five Time Zone” watch, which allows the wearer to change the look of the piece with different straps and bezels. It was a game-changer in and for fashion watches. A few years later, he designed the first vertical tourbillon with a 31-day power reserve. Always innovating, Arabo wanted to make timepieces that couldn’t be found anywhere else — he wanted to differentiate himself and his brand. That’s been the driving force behind Jacob & Co.’s continued success, Arabov explains. “We’ve held onto that since the company’s inception, and it’s still what fuels the brand today. With creativity also comes our relentless pursuit for turning the impossible into reality. Every timepiece we introduce to the world aims to break new ground and introduce never-before-seen innovations that are meant to shape and define the future of the high watchmaking space. This goal has remained unchanged since 1986.”

For the last 36 years, the company has grown exponentially, adding new luxury pieces to the collection and growing in terms of expertise, “creating complicated yet sophisticated mechanisms and movements,” Arabov adds. Jacob & Co. has been a mainstay in the horology world for good reason — the brand remains faithful to its original values of innovation, creativity and inspirations. “Being a pioneering and risk-taking company is central to our growth and future. The brand is where it is today because of the original and

evolutionary leaps we’ve made in the last three decades. My father started this company and turned it into an American dream success story with his hard work and unique vision.”

TOP IMAGE: The BILLIONAIRE is the perfect combination of high jewellery and high watchmaking. The entirety of the timepiece, outside of the movement is bead-set with the highest quality emerald-cut white diamonds, including the case, lugs, bezel, bracelet, and clasp. Total carat weight is over 260 carats.

Expertly skeletonized 60-second, high-watchmaking tourbillon with skeletonized hands that stand out over the nearly transparent tourbillon movement.

Today, Jacob & Co.’s timepieces are known for being pure masterpieces — staggering works of art. Each one tells a story that reflects Arabo’s vision of the world. The iconic pieces are absolute marvels. The Astronomia Tourbillon, for example, features an “animated rendering of the celestial world, with different elements in constant motion under the control of a double (or triple) axis tourbillon regulator,” explains Arabov, while the Epic SF24 is described as the world traveller’s watch — highly complex and challenging to engineer and manufacture but functional and simple to use. The Opera Godfather watch, in partnership with Paramount Pictures, celebrates the iconic film The Godfather and features a mechanical music box that plays the movie’s theme. The Billionaire watch, though, might just be the perfect mix of complexity and luxury. “It has a grand total of 177.11 carats consisting of of 325 emerald-cut and baguette-cut diamonds that make up the case and bracelet of the Billionaire, containing Jacob & Co. JCAM09 skeletonized tourbillon calibre,” Arabov says. “Our pieces are known worldwide for being beautifully detailed and singular. Our brand carries an obvious respect for the best of traditional watchmaking combined with avant-garde elements that are made possible with modern-day technology.” Collectors the world over are Jacob & Co.’s greatest fans.

To learn more about Jacob & Co.’s exquisite timepieces, visit jacobandco.com, and for Canadian queries, discover Knar Jewellery at knar.com.

RIGHT TO LEFT: FOUNDER AND CHAIRMAN, JACOB ARABO, WITH HIS SON, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, BENJAMIN ARABOV.

IN A STATE SUNSHINE

SUNSHINE

By Adriana Ermter

The sky is a clear blue. Majestic green palms, the ultimate symbol of vacation time, sway gently in the warm breeze. Beneath you, sand squishes between your toes, while ahead lies miles and miles of turquoise water. Joyful music hums in the distance, as a sense of contentment washes over you from head to toe, making you feel like all of this is too good to be true. Except that it’s not. In fact, it’s a scenario that could become your reality. “Buying somewhere you only dream to visit is possible,” affirms Shaminder Gogna, CEO of the Condoville Group of Companies. “Toronto’s a great city to live in during the summer, but when it’s still snowing in April and you can leave and live down south, why wouldn’t you?”

By south, Gogna is referring to Florida, where he and his wife and business partner, Jasneet, have recently opened up shop. Aptly named for its locale, Condoville South is a Canadian-based marketing company that introduces out-of-country real estate opportunities to

With a brand-new office south of the border, Condoville offers everything real estate under the sun.

Canadians, while simultaneously helping them navigate the path toward international home ownership. Currently, it provides direct access to condominiums, single-family homes and investment properties in Orlando and Miami, joining the Toronto-based headquarters and north office in Vaughan, Ont., as the third pillar of the organization.

“With Condoville South, we have created several strong relationships with local Florida service providers to ensure Canadians are able to comfortably own real estate abroad,” says Gogna. “Canadian purchasers will gain access to mortgage advisers, property management companies, furniture providers and more. We’re full service — from helping you find the right property and arranging the finances to coordinating the right property management, should you want to rent your new place right away or later down the road after your family has enjoyed it and you want to reap the financial rewards.”

These rewards are no longer restricted to the 60-plus snowbird crowd. As Florida’s market

pricing remains lower than the average cost of home ownership in Canada, the benefits of owning and living in, as well as owning and renting a home in the Sunshine State are expanding to Canadians, including Gen X, millennials and Gen Z. And the timing couldn’t be better. According to the Canadian Real Estate Association, since 2021, the national average home price has climbed by more than 20 percent, hitting a record high of almost $820,000 this year. While an April 2022 report from the Canadian Housing Market stated that the average home in Ontario costs just over $1,000,000, with Toronto homes increasing by 18.5 percent year over year.

“Market affordability in the Greater Toronto Area is becoming worse for millennials, Gen Zs and even baby boomers,” adds Gogna. “Entry price points on many new developments are scary for those entering the real estate market, taking into consideration the large deposits that are required when signing the Agreement of Purchase & Sale and the monthly operating payments. For the new generation of homeowners,

spending all their income on real estate ownership isn’t appealing. There are several markets across North America, most notably in the U.S., that offer strong cash flows and price appreciation at a fraction of the prices in the GTA.”

Factor in the new wave of the workplace, which has many operating remotely and is, perhaps, the one silver lining the pandemic provided, buying and living abroad is no longer a pipe dream. Especially with brokerages like Condoville paving the way. Complete with a modus operandi “to offer real estate opportunities to people of all walks of life,” Gogna and his team continue to create realistic lifestyle solutions for both now and the future. Their efforts are fruitful too, as they realize homeownership dreams complete with a side of sand and sunshine.

“As we continue to research and learn more about the process of purchasing in major markets south of the border, we’re becoming more intrigued with the opportunities,” says Gogna. “Owning an international property isn’t crazy, it’s smart. So, we’re sharing how to do it.”

“With Condoville South, we have created several strong relationships with local Florida service providers to ensure Canadians are able to comfortably own real estate abroad.”

FACING A NEW DIRECTION

Feminizing the face takes artistry and skill. Dr. Philip Solomon MD, FRCSC, Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgeon, practicing Facial Plastic Surgery in Toronto, is one of the few surgeons in Canada helping patients transition their facial features from male to female.

Living Luxe: What exactly is Facial Feminization Surgery?

Dr. Philip Solomon: Facial cosmetic surgery can play an extraordinary role in the transitioning process for those wanting to feminize their facial features. The male face inherently has structural features that are viewed to be more masculine, such as a strong nose, prominent brow bone, higher forehead, Adam’s Apple, strong chin and jaw structure. Facial Feminization Surgery refers to a combination of surgeries that work harmoniously to feminize the face. Some of those surgeries may include rhinoplasty, hairline lowering, brow lift , brow reduction, laryngeal shave, chin augmentation or reduction, lip lift and facial fat grafting.

LL: How does Facial Feminization Surgery fit into a patient’s transitioning process?

Dr. Philip Solomon: The transitioning process varies from patient to patient and may include hormone therapy, hair-removal procedures, both facial and body cosmetic surgery, and gender reassignment surgery. What is important to one patient may be different to another, however, looking female in appearance is often a priority for a patient’s exterior to match how they feel. Patients often start their transitioning process with hormone therapy which, on its own, can help feminize the face. Clothing, hair and makeup are easily accessible and affordable options for looking and feeling more feminine. Cosmetic surgery may then be considered as patients become more comfortable in their own skin and want the world to see them for who they are.

Dr. Philip Solomon MD, FRCSC

LL: How do you start the surgical process?

Dr. Philip Solomon: We provide a comprehensive consultation with all our patients, however, with patients undergoing facial feminization procedures, we are certainly sensitive to the challenges that may accompany their changing identity. We do our best to ascertain their motivation, needs and goals. In certain cases, we may find it helpful to communicate with the patient’s other health care providers. A strong support system is important throughout the surgical process, as recovering from facial cosmetic surgery can be hard for any patient making changes to their face.

LL: What does this surgery entail?

Dr. Philip Solomon: Facial Feminization Surgery is very personal. Feminizing the nose is often desired. Creating a slope on the bridge of the nose, narrowing the nose and refining the nasal tip, all help create a more feminine-looking nasal appearance. The brow bone, Adam’s Apple and chin are typically more prominent in men leading to a more masculine appearance. We offer Brow Bone Reduction Surgery, Hairline Lowering, Brow Lift , Tracheal Shave Surgery and Chin Reduction to help refine and feminize the face. To further feminize the face, our patients may want Upper Lip Lift Surgery, Cheek Augmentation and Facial Fat Grafting, which can help contour and sculpt the mid-face and cheeks.

We work collaboratively with our patients in planning their surgery. Some patients do multiple procedures at once, while others prefer to do them more gradually over time.

LL: How long is the surgery and what is the downtime?

Dr. Philip Solomon: Most cosmetic surgeries have a downtime that ranges from seven to 14 days, depending on the extent and number of procedures performed. Residual swelling can last anywhere from three months to one year, depending on the procedure. It really takes a full year post-surgery to see the true results as subtle changes continue to evolve during this period. We have a wonderful team at Solomon Facial Plastic that is extremely supportive and accessible

throughout the entire process, and we do our best to ensure a positive and memorable surgical experience.

LL: What kinds of non-surgical treatments might accompany Facial Feminization Surgery?

Dr. Philip Solomon: Once patients have undergone Facial Feminization Surgery, we often see them back in the clinic for smaller, less-invasive procedures such as filler injections or laser treatments, which can add subtle but beautiful enhancements. Laser resurfacing can help give a refreshed and glowing appearance to the skin, as it evens out the skin tone, reduces pore size and improves skin texture. We have seen our patients take their surgical results to another level when augmenting with these non-surgical procedures. We do find that our patients who undergo Facial Feminization Surgery are extremely appreciative of the work we provide during their transitioning process, which is incredibly gratifying for me as a surgeon.

IMAGE BY ADOBE STOCK.

OF DR. SOLOMON BY GEORGE PIMENTEL

Dr.

Philip Solomon MD, FRCSC

“FACIAL COSMETIC SURGERY CAN PLAY AN EXTRAORDINARY ROLE IN THE TRANSITIONING PROCESS FOR THOSE WANTING TO FEMINIZE THEIR FACIAL FEATURES.”

Jennifer Lipkowitz Publisher

DRESS YOU UP

Whether you’re looking for sweet summer dresses or stunning accessories, Yorkville’s Revelle has you covered this season.

Rococo Sand Emily Long Sleeve

Dress (above): Serve looks with this exquisite Emily Long Sleeve Dress. This lightweight flowy dress shapes any body elegantly with its pleated waistband and faux-wrap neckline. The colourful shades of orange and pink and polka-dot embellishments make it perfect for day outings that turn into evening dates.

Rococo Sand Eira Set (left): Feel like your own boss in our retro-inspired peach and lilac print Eira Set. With adjustable buttons, plunged neckline and elastic waistband, this set is the ultimate mix of comfort and glamour. Perfect for a paradise getaway or city brunch look! Mix and match and pair with your personal favourites.

Hemant and Nandita Leah Dress Gold (right): One must always be different. With this tiered crochet trim and the metallic threading throughout, featuring a V neck and flowy skirt, this Leah Long Dress speaks class and elegance. A must-have for your destination wedding.

MacKenzie Mode

Slip into this luxurious MacKenzie Mode Puff Sleeves dress that offers a series of

out sides and stand out at your next gala.

Round neckline. Flared Hemline. Relaxed

Venice Dress (below): Slip into this luxurious MacKenzie Mode Puff Sleeves dress that offers a series of ruffles accentuated with black detailing. Show your waist with the gorgeous cutout sides and stand out at your next gala. Round neckline. Flared Hemline. Relaxed Maxi Silhouette. It doesn’t get any better!

prints and

The Sabrina Backless shirring panel A

Fillyboo Set: Pants (right): This unique Patchwork Flare Pants features hand-painted prints and delicate lace inserts that you’ll absolutely adore. The feminine florals and detailed textures combined with rockstar chic make this pair a phenomenal outdoor/ festival/brunch fit! Shirt: The Sabrina Backless Blouse features buttons and loops at the back neck and an elastic shirring panel at the back. show-stopper piece.

Hemant and Nandita Hera Set (right):

This fabulous set will have you feeling nothing less than glamorous. It offers a variety of unique details including free knots and dramatic sleeves that sit gracefully over the shoulder, and the skirt features a slit that adds a sexy chic flow to the overall look giving the silhouette a unique appearance.

Starting as a vision to o er the most exquisite international designer apparel and accessories from Australia to Spain, Revelle is constantly curating unique experiences to its clients. The store’s slogan is “one must always be di erent,” and it strives to be an all-inclusive place that flatters women worldwide. Initially starting in the US, Revelle is now located in the heart of Yorkville. The iconic building blends fashion, art and events, and provides customers with the luxury they seek. Your experience will start on the first floor, where you will be met with the most unique and detailed pieces. A er your successful shopping spree, you can make your way up to the event space and gorgeous outdoor patio to indulge in a refreshing drink. The third floor is where all the magic happens! Revelle’s aesthetic content creation room changes seasonally to capture beautiful artistic moments. Whether you’re a city girl or always on the move, Revelle aims to take you anywhere you want to be, from the beach to the city.

@Revelleshop 129 Davenport Road, Toronto, 833-738-3553

Joan Kelley Walker Philanthropy Editor

HELPING THOSE WHO HELP OTHERS

There’s an event in June that supports families going through a healthcare journey. Here’s where some of the money raised at this wonderful initiative goes.

By Joan Kelley Walker

One of Toronto’s most anticipated events returned after a two-year hiatus. The Nashville-themed “Scrubs in the City” event took place on June 2 at Evergreen Brick Works in support of The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids). There were plenty of cowboys and cowgirls present, hoping to help others in need. To date, supporters have raised more than $7.3 million, and that money has gone toward supporting some of the most critical needs at SickKids. This year went off without a hitch, raising awareness and funds that will be used to support a crucial Blood & Marrow Transplant/Cellular Therapy (BMT/CT) Program for a new Cellular Therapy Facility at SickKids. This will be the first of its kind in Canada. SickKids can harness the power of the immune system to fight cancer and other diseases using a patient’s own cells.

I wanted to dig a little deeper and learn how Scrubs in the City really helps. What is “cellular therapy,” and how will the new facility help children and youth? I had the opportunity to ask Dr. Donna Wall, Section Head of Blood and Marrow Transplant/Cellular Therapy, Division of Haematology/Oncology at SickKids. “We are in an exciting time where research into childhood cancer and blood disorders has led us to the point where we can work with the child’s or a donor’s blood to treat cancers and severe infections as well as help manage immune reactions in what has only, until recently, been dreamed about at the level of science fiction. The Cellular Therapy Facility at SickKids is designed to be able to take a child’s or donor’s young blood-making immune cells and give them the ability to target their cancer, infection, or other misbehaving cells — engineering treatments that use living cells,” says Dr. Wall. “Strategically located within SickKids and closely linked with the Research Institute and the many clinical teams at SickKids, the Cellular Therapy Facility is responsible

for the handling, manufacturing, and delivery of the personalized treatment to children and youth with cancer or blood disorders — a treatment often starting with their own cells.

“Given our early success with cellular and gene therapy treatments, we anticipate that what is a bold experimental treatment today will rapidly move to widely-used treatment for children and youth, allowing us to treat severe immune/blood disorders, including cancer, more precisely; potentially improving outcomes and making treatments safer,” she says.

SickKids is currently treating many children and youth who have exhausted all standard treatment options. This facility will help provide them with new therapeutic options. “It is unbelievably rewarding to be able to offer treatments that carry an option that can be truly transformative,” says Dr. Wall. “The process of developing cell products that are personalized for each child is a labour of love and needs a team with the tools to deliver products on time. With the support of the funds raised, we are building a robust platform and team to deliver cell products for the next generation. Funding will speed up our program and allow us to bring more complex strategies to the clinical treatments.” The hope is that children and youth will be able to benefit from cellular therapies developed by scientists from SickKids.

These types of treatments will help children like Marky, who was diagnosed with cancer when he was just three years old. His official diagnosis was Ph+ acute lymphoblastic leukemia with mixed-lineage leukemia rearrangement, which was aggressive and resulted in an immediate transfer to the intensive care unit at SickKids. Marky spent the first year of treatment as an inpatient as he bravely battled through chemo while fighting off infections. SickKids became his family’s home. He slowly started to improve; however, this was short-lived because his cancer returned and a bone-marrow transplant was needed. He returned to SickKids facing the fight of

his life. His only hope was a new treatment for blood cancer called CAR-T cell therapy. The team at SickKids started preparation for CAR-T cell therapy immediately and thankfully Marky responded quickly. Once his leukemia was under control, he was able to have his cells harvested and sent for manufacturing in the US, which took six to eight weeks, then doctors infused them into Marky’s body to help kill off the remaining cancer cells. Marky managed the entire process with relatively few side effects, and he was able to return home after a month. Marky was given the news that he was in remission and has not looked back since. He is currently a happy, healthy, and thriving eight-yearold. His mother, Heidi Czutrin, shared that knowing he was under the care of the SickKids’ staff — composed of some of the best health-care providers on the planet — offered a tremendous amount of comfort. “Being able to receive this life-saving treatment at one of the best children’s hospitals in the world gives you the sense that you are always in good hands. I know the staff looked after Marky and me as if we were their own family,” she says.

For me, as a mother, I can’t even imagine having to face this kind of unforeseen battle. I am writing this on Mother’s Day, and I want to acknowledge the tremendous strength of the children and their parents going through a childhood cancer journey. Marky’s mother’s words left me with hope, because when we build facilities like SickKids, we help save lives.

“It is difficult to find the right words to say because ‘thank you’ doesn’t seem like enough. We are so lucky to live in Toronto, the home of SickKids, and it is because of the support of the donors and event sponsors that a family like ours, who have been through so much, can come out on the other side and call ourselves lucky. You should just know that it is because of all of you that kids like Marky can get not just a second, but a third chance at life — and these kids deserve it,” Czutrin says.

To donate, go to sickkidsfoundation.com/scrubs.

STYLE & SUBSTANCE

Furnishings industry favourite Decorium

reveals the top trends dressing up your home this year and beyond.

By Silvana Longo

Decorium, a third-generation family-owned business for 36 years, continues to be a leader in the home furnishings and accessories category in the Greater Toronto Area. Since its launch back in 1986 (when its 2,500-square-foot location catered to the design trade only), with each decade, the continued and sustained growth of this proudly Canadian

THIS IMAGE: F320 velvet accent chair: Kyle accent chair. Available in hundreds of fabric choices.

business is certainly one that seems to have the winning formula for success. Long-time employee, vice-president of marketing and buyer Tara Lindsay touts one of the reasons to the company’s staying power is its unique culture that treats staff and clientele as family. “I have been here for more than 20 years, and many people have been here for several years,” she says. “We are a true working family.”

Behind the continuity of the brand that builds trust with staff and customers alike, the 100,000-square-foot showroom in Toronto is an odyssey of furnishing options

for every lifestyle, every room and every style, from modern to traditional and everything in between. Clients benefit from free design services both in-store and virtually. Plus, if head-to-toe ergonomic support appeals to your comfort and design sensibilities, the showroom has a dedicated “Stressless Gallery,” comprised of pieces with specialized ergonomic features made by a modern Scandinavian company offering the maximum of relaxation and luxury. Beyond the white-glove service and extended family culture, Decorium has also always been at the forefront of trends, offering both quality and value in all its coveted collections. Whether you’re looking to update the look of a room or your entire home, it is a one-stop shop and a destination worth exploring for all your furnishing needs.

Here is a look at some of the latest trends you will find (or those that are coming soon) to its Toronto-based showroom located at 363 Supertest Road.

Curves ahead. Rounded 1970’s-inspired furniture has redirected the focus from razor-sharp geometric lines in interiors. This shapely aesthetic evokes feelings of relaxation and hope over hard lines. The soft curves are perfect for beds, swivel chairs, sofas and sectionals.

LEFT: Mercedes swivel chair: Made in Canada, this piece comes in a huge assortment of fabrics. Retro style and modern design make this funky accent chair an eyecatching addition to any space.

“BEYOND THE WHITE-GLOVE SERVICE AND EXTENDED FAMILY CULTURE, DECORIUM HAS ALSO ALWAYS BEEN AT THE FOREFRONT OF TRENDS, OFFERING BOTH QUALITY AND VALUE IN ALL ITS COVETED COLLECTIONS.”

Creating a HIGHER STANDARD in Real Estate.

Over the past 20 years, Rose Barroso has become one of the most respected and sought-after designers and builders of luxury custom homes in the Greater Toronto Area. Posh-Haus Inc. is the result of organic growth from this strategy. Rose firmly believes this will add significant value to her new career and the services she is able to provide her real estate clients.

These past experiences have provided Rose with a distinct advantage for her clients. She is able to go into a property and identify any concerns in a home, as well as suggestions on what can be done. Most importantly, Rose can provide insight on the approximate time and cost required.

We believe you would be hard-pressed to find another realtor with Rose’s extensive construction knowledge in our marketplace. Her clients have greatly appreciated having an agent who understands what improvements need to be made and what can/can’t be done when purchasing a property.

Although Rose does not work on the construction-side anymore, she is very proud to have a wide network of professionals she has worked with for years and she can proudly endorse.

Posh-Haus Inc. is a natural extension of the customization and exclusivity Rose has always brought to the table with her distinctive dedication to exceptional customer service. Rose feels passionately that it begins with a deep understanding of her clients’ lifestyles.

Rose is honored to be quickly rising to the top of her new career. After transitioning into a career in Luxury Residential Real Estate, Rose has never looked back. Her latest accomplishment is having achieved the from her Brokerage.

I welcome you to connect with me if you are looking to enter the marketplace as a seller and/or buyer.If you have any questions or would like to view a property, please feel free to contact me!

BEYOND BESPOKE

A custom rug by Studio 321b is not only an artistic venture, but one that upholds sustainable practices making your home — and the world — a more beautiful place.

By Silvana Longo

When long-time rug expert Antonio Hellman decided to strike out on his own after 30 years in the industry, he worked hard to fill a gap in the market and provide exceptional service to the trade. In 2019, Studio 321b was born in the hip Junction neighbourhood where Hellman can combine his love of artistic, one-of-a-kind, high-quality rugs made with truly sustainable practices that are fairly priced. While Hellman eventually wants to expand to the public when the timing is right, he says he’s beyond content at where the company currently is. “My journey has been one of understanding designers’ needs and desires,” he says proudly. And in just three years, Studio 321b has quickly become a go-to location for unique, bespoke rugs, where designers can come and feel safe ensuring excellence is delivered on all fronts.

Ethical practices and pricing

Most would agree that quality takes time and usually costs more. While a quality rug may cost thousands of dollars, Hellman doesn’t see this as a reason to overcharge. “As long as the budget is reasonable, I can work within it,” he says. For instance, after an initial consultation, which covers the desired style, look and budget for a client’s custom rug, he works within the budget and recommends an appropriate weave, whether that be Tibetan, hand-knotted, hand-woven, hand-loomed or hand-tufted. He assures all desired qualities can be attained without going over budget. “The next step is having our creative team come up with a CAD or diagram of the carpet pattern and colour placement. Colours are chosen in collaboration with the client, the designer and our creative team, and sizes are determined by furniture placement and room size.” The local aspect looms large, too, as all designs are created by local artists on-site at the studio.

Using only eco-friendly natural materials, such as New Zealand wool, bamboo silk, organic cotton and jute, Hellman also addresses the “greenwashing” taking place in the industry. “You will see a rug

that is outrageously priced and yet it is not very well made,” he says. Hellman cites instances of people paying up to $50,000 for so-called silk, which turns out to be viscose. He encourages a “buyer beware” approach, and to avoid this pitfall, he recommends dealing with only credible companies and to read the reviews.

At Studio 321b, no shortcuts or false claims are made when it comes to the use of quality or sustainable materials. Take bamboo silk. Hellman explains that the fibres are extruded from the plant and then are shredded and made into a yarn. Some will claim Tencel or viscose is bamboo silk because of a very small amount of silk present, yet it is mostly comprised — 90 percent, in fact — of chemicals. Want the proof? “By pouring water on it, it will harden and change shape,” says Hellman. “All our stuff is pre-washed even before it arrives here. And we wash it again when it arrives to ensure there is no shifting or hardening of the fibres.”

With all these procedures in place, you may wonder how Hellman can offer the high quality he does in his custom works of art, at times at a lower price than his competitors. “We keep our overhead low, pay

connections in the marketplace to make sure our wool grade is high,” he says.

Soon the public can indulge in a new generic collection of animal rugs that Studio 321b will be launching online. Inspired by Hellman’s daughter, it is called Rebecca’s Animal Safari. “These rugs are extremely high-end and will sell for $595,” he says. With 10 percent of the proceeds to be donated to either the women’s shelter Red Door or to one of the weaving facilities in India with an education centre for children under 10, Hellman fully believes in the power of giving back.

When asked about the future of Studio 321b, Hellman affirms, “There are plans for growth, but not at a cost of quality. It is my reputation and that is not something I’m willing to compromise.”

MAKE IT LAST 1 2 3 4

Did you know a quality rug can last more than 20 years if properly maintained? Here are Antonio Hellman’s tips to ensure the longevity of your fl oor coverings.

Rotate the rug in the space every six months to assure equal light distribution, the sun and UV rays fade colours and rotation makes sure the colours fade equally.

Vacuum using a rotating bar to avoid excessive shedding. Make sure the brushes are at the highest levels to avoid shredding of fibres.

Spot-clean stains using a teaspoon of a mild detergent (one that is non-acidic) and a cup of cold water. Blot the stains out with a white cloth — don’t ever rub the stain (rubbing will make the stain permanent and it will become locked into the backing of the rug).

Professionally clean your rugs every two to three years or longer as needed by a reputable cleaning company.

Talking about money is easy. Talking about money with family? That’s hard.

Wisdom helps.

0.4% is anyone’s chance of being born wealthy

70% of families lose their wealth in the second generation

90% lose it by the third generation

62% of people in Ontario die without a will

10% of those who die without a will did seek advice but didn’t follow through

53% say, “it’s too difficult to find an advisor I trust to create an estate plan”

71% say they would feel like a better person/ parent/spouse If they did have a plan

94% of people engage with Libby so that they can share their personal story with her

82% of people laugh and enjoy themselves when talking about their dreams with Libby

87% of Libby’s clients call to talk about parenting, their marriage or their health and travel dreams versus estate planning

86% of people are attracted to Libby for business because she is a thought leader

78% of Libby’s clients have been connected by her to someone meaningful in their lives

73% of Libby’s knowledge comes from being an entrepreneur who has been married twice and who is bringing up three children as a single mom

100% of people say “thank you!” to Libby once their plan is set in motion

Libby Wildman, Senior Partner Living Luxe Financial Contributor lw@davisrea.com / 416-803-9255 www.davisrea.com

ART WITH A CAUSE

Toronto-based French artist Sophie Brussaux spoke to us about her creative side and why it’s so important to give back with her stunning work.

Sophie Brussaux didn’t train to become an artist, but creativity runs deep in her blood. An only child who grew up in France, Brussaux was constantly surrounded by a wide variety of art. “My mother was so artistic. She would always have me trying things in her studio, whether beading pearls or doing clay sculpting, drawing or painting. She felt as if she had to entertain me because I didn’t have siblings, so she had me involved in lots of different artistic avenues,” she says. “I didn’t realize it wasn’t typical for everyone to draw and paint and dance in their time off until I moved to New York in my twenties. In North America, I realized it was very European to be engaged in art so much of the time.”

When she lived in New York, she spent her time bartending and modelling, but she also started painting. “Up until this time, I was mostly doing a lot of drawing. But I must’ve seen something cool or been inspired, because I just decided I wanted to paint.” She went back to Europe for the second half of her twenties and started exhibiting. From showing her work in art-loving clubs to presenting Pope Francis with a painting at Third World Day of the Poor, it was around that time when she got pregnant with her son and her outlook on life and art forever changed. “I wanted to find a way to make the world a little better in my own way. Up until now, I didn’t realize how powerful art could be, and ever since, everything I do has been about art but with a cause. It doesn’t matter how much money you have or your social status. Art puts everyone on equal footing and that’s so important to me.”

Brussaux’s pledge to give back helped Street Haven at the Crossroads, Toronto’s oldest women’s shelter. “I had a painting of Malala and I wanted to give it to a cause that supported women on International Women’s Day to auction it off. My wonderful friend Isabella Baboury, a well-rounded philanthropist, knew someone who stayed at the shelter and said it was a wonderful experience and it helped her get back on

track. The painting sold and we gave Street Haven the cheque. All the women who work there are passionate about what they do,” she says, adding she’s currently working on a painting for Formula 1 in Montreal. Her painting will be auctioned off for a mental health charity, the Sainte-Justine Foundation. “I want my art to inspire people but also to help people. I want to make sure there’s a component of giving back in everything I do.”

The next chapter of Brussaux’s journey in the art world has been the creation of Brussaux Art Group (BAG), a new entity that will continue to embody design expertise through meaningful projects that drive social change, but will also include an art-licensing venture, which will expand her creative imprint into other modalities to engage and inspire innovation. This exciting new addition to Brussaux’s long list of artistic ventures will only reinforce her mission of encouraging us to revive our sense of compassion and gratitude to one another through her artistic vision.

GET THAT SUMMER GLOW

Keep your skin healthy and happy this season with tips from beauty expert and founder and CEO of Tru-Green Organics, A. Pirouzi.

By A. Pirouzi

Summer means beach days, pool parties and vacations. It’s also the perfect time of year to refresh your skincare routine for the ultimate glow-up. Being a beauty expert means knowing the ins and outs of a perfect routine to keep your skin looking fresh and radiant. Even as a professional, I have to prevent sun damage and breakouts. A good skincare routine is crucial in all seasons. Summer, however, brings on a different set of skin challenges. Here are some of my top tips for a perfect summer glow.

SPF is your best friend. Don’t leave the house without following this tip: It will save you so much money in the long term by preventing premature aging, dark spots and saving your skin from harmful rays that may cause skin cancer. I recommend a minimum SPF of 30 or higher. Tru-Green Organics Sheer Botanical Sunscreen is perfect for the face and body. A non-greasy, water-resistant, all-natural formula that is broad-spectrum SPF 50-plus with UVA and UVB protection and is safe for sensitive skin. It has a fl awless smooth texture that offers full protection, plus there are no harmful chemicals added — instead, we use antioxidant-rich ingredients that will benefit your complexion while protecting. Throw it in your bag and go, no excuses.

Stay in the shade. Wear a cute sunhat, sit under an umbrella and just try to avoid direct sun exposure as much as possible. Th is doesn’t mean you have to wear a long-sleeved shirt at the beach, of course, but be mindful of your sun time. Take breaks and know when the sun is at its midday surge.

Go light. With the added moisture and humidity  in the air, your skin will retain moisture more easily. Th is is why I recommend a great toner that unclogs and freshens the pores after you’ve been sweating. Tru-Green Organics Active Glo Toner, with AHA & BHA salicylic acid and glycolic acid, acts as a decongestant and softens skin. The glycolic acid helps exfoliate without needing to scrub your face raw,

A. Pirouzi Beauty Expert

and the salicylic acid keeps pores clear. Th is toner helps close pores and tighten cell gaps after cleansing, reducing the penetration of impurities and environmental contaminants into the skin. It can even protect and remove chlorine and minerals present in tap water and swimming pools. You will notice diminished pore size and a more even skin tone.

Moisturize. Moisturize. Moisturize. Use a dual-purpose moisturizer that isn’t heavy, greasy or pore-clogg ing. It’s best to fi nd one that has vitamin C, too. (Vitamin C is important year-round, but even more so in the summer to prevent hyperpigmentation from sun exposure. Also, it helps with fi ne lines and helps with collagen production.) TruGreen Organics Vitamin C+E+ALOE Daily Facial Moisturizing Lotion is a solid and proven addition to any skincare routine. You’ll notice the difference almost instantly with this rich formulation.

Be sure to exfoliate. Shed the weight of dead skin cells. Open your pores and regenerate your skin to prevent sweat and oil-related acne. Tru-Green Organics Hawaiian Breeze Exfoliating Facial Cleanser (with the bonus of vitamin E, which is a natural anti-infl ammatory soothes and helps calm the skin and repair damaged cells) is especially crucial after sun exposure.

Rethink your makeup. Many types of makeup can clog your pores because of the added fillers and synthetic ingredients. Read your labels and choose non-comedogenic makeup — look for products that don’t contain ingredients that will clog your pores. (For example, stay away from primers that contain silicone.)

Cool it in the shower. In the summer, we tend to have more than one shower a day, whether it’s because of workouts, beach days or just excess summer sweat. Cut your time in the shower to less than 10 minutes at a time. Too much time in the shower can lead to dry skin, which in turn can lead to infl ammation and summertime eczema. It’s important to moisturize after your shower. Tru-Green Organics intense daily moisturizer is a great option for daily use.

“IT’S THE PERFECT TIME OF YEAR TO REFRESH YOUR SKINCARE ROUTINE FOR THE ULTIMATE GLOW-UP. “

Libby Wildman Finance Expert

THE LIFE OF MONEY

How do you define money? What role does it play in your existence? It’s time you reflected on these important questions.

By Libby Wildman

Imagine, if you would, you’re an oenophile sitting in a wine cellar full of some of the most spectacular wines in the world and the very grapes you love. You have inherited these wines, and, along with them, the responsibility to carry on this wealth, this love of wine and to make sure it is there for generations to come. Your instructions are to only open and drink those wines that you may think have gone off; the rest you are to save as they go up in value and must be there to preserve your family’s good name, stature and, of course, value. You smile. Ridiculous? Not so. In our years of helping guide families to what they truly value, it is so often clouded and even shrouded in intergenerational pressure to keep things “as they are.” This is the way we have always done it. There is not enough for everyone, so please do make sure we maintain our share and even increase it, for

our family, our tribe. We must protect our future and the future of generations to come.

Scarcity versus sufficiency. The vicious cycle of poverty has been clearly articulated and is widely known. There is no recognition of the trap that wealth so often creates, or conversation around the suffering of the wealthy — the loneliness, the isolation, the hardening of the heart and the family discourse that can come with the burden of wealth. Often, great wealth can amplify a distorted relationship with money and deprive family members from discovering their purpose in life, their gifts, their calling.

Money itself is neither bad nor good, nor does it have power or not have power. It is our interaction with money — our human interpretation of money — that causes the divide between us finding our

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purpose in life and knowing we have a reason to be here and a gift to share. In The Soul of Money by Lynn Twiste, she writes about this and how a change in our perspective on how we earn money, how we spend it, how we save it and how we share it, can be a release on the grip that money often holds over us.

Begin by looking for the money thread in your own story and how you would like this to play out. If you are fortunate, you may be able to broach this subject with your parents and discover together how they inherited money stories, biases and perhaps shame around the money stories they grew up with. “Marry for money, honey; you can learn to love” is an adage I have heard often. Households with plenty and households with not quite enough all pass on fears and the mighty quest for more, lived out because of society’s ever-increasing dependence on money as the way of judging human value and worth.

The trick is to approach all of this with curiosity, an open mind and the desire to learn. Often, great wealth comes after the generation that grew up with nothing; the fear and the shame of scarcity driving their focus to be on making and accumulating wealth. The thought is “my children will never have to go without, like I did.”

This is not a one-off conversation. I would even suggest, if family members are open, to engage with various types of professionals who can help navigate this fascinating journey. At Davis Rea, we have approached this in various ways: John O’Connell, our CEO, has his Family Enterprise Adviser (FEA) designation; I hold retreats on self-connection for families and individuals; and our staff find fulfillment in giving back and volunteering in their local communities.

That which you focus upon expands. Where the feeling of lack lives, there is a sense of loss of control. If we believe we do not have

enough and can never have enough, then those feelings become our focus and begin to take over our consciousness. How do we learn that even in adversity we can grow to appreciate our ability as humans, to thrive and feel the joy of sharing? How do we expand our perspective on the meaning and use of money in our lives? When we create a practice of deliberate attention on what we do have, the value and appreciation of what is already before us and in our current experience expands.

It is helpful to find an adviser who will aid you in understanding your dynamic of how you spend, how you save and the options to grow your money. Philanthropy is another important pillar in our money life; whether you are a millionaire, or a “dollarheir,” as Lynn Twiste says, giving, in any amount, opens our minds and our hearts. In lieu of money, you may give of your time, your skills or your resources. These actions bond us to the greater good and let us know we are all connected.

What exactly is money if it is not coveted, hoarded or envied? Money is but a commodity accepted by general consent as a medium of economic exchange. It circulates from person to person and country to country, facilitating trade. It functions only because there is a general acceptance of its value. In the thesaurus and the dictionary, nowhere does it define money with characteristics, such as coy or brave or stupid or brilliant. It is only in our novels and movies that money becomes a live and powerful “being” where its force can be dangerous, benevolent or powerful enough to make some above the law.

In my mind, money is something that we should treat with care, respect, generosity and only so much attention. In fact, my latest experiment is to only give money so much time on a weekly basis. I allocate money an hour once a week, noted in my calendar, to deal with bills, review my investments and check on various projects and goals that require money to bring them to fruition. This may lead to appointments with lawyers or bankers or our investment team, but money no longer occupies my mind at 3 a.m. I encourage all of you to focus more on the prosperity and generosity that already exists in you and your life. Let the flow of money align with your truth and represent your values, your soulful wishes and your commitment in your own way to all of humanity.

If you have a desire to explore this more deeply, I invite you to reach out; this is truly a conversation I look forward to.

Wildman is Head of Wealth Advisory at the Toronto-based investment firm Davis Rea and the founder of Liminal Escapes creative curated retreats.

Libby

“WHEN WE CREATE A PRACTICE OF

ATTENTION ON WHAT WE DO HAVE, THE VALUE AND

OF WHAT IS ALREADY BEFORE US AND IN OUR CURRENT EXPERIENCE EXPANDS.”

cute & cuddly for your floors

safari animals

WESTEND NEWS

The unique home decor brand has made a huge splash in Oakville. Welcome to the new KARE Toronto.

When it came time to fête the grand opening of KARE Toronto’s new location in Oakville, Ont., on Thursday May 5, more than 150 friends of the unique furniture and accessories brand celebrated into the evening.

After moving from the former Queen Street location several months ago, KARE Toronto franchise owner Edilka Anderson and KARE creative director Carla Guzman were thrilled to open their doors to a host of VIP guests, including Oakville’s mayor, Rob Burton; the Oakville Chamber of Commerce; as well as KARE’s Carsten Pedersen, business development manager of the Americas; and Peter Schönhofen, KARE’s cofounder (who travelled from Germany with his daughter, Julia, to attend this special event).

Oakville is the perfect home for the brand — it’s a sought-after location for businesses and many of KARE’s clients are nearby. “Downtown Oakville is exactly what we were looking for. We are so excited to be part of such a growing city, rich in culture, and its citizens really do support their local businesses,” says Anderson. “The new store is a bigger space and we’re able to showcase more products. The space has a very high ceiling and feels light and airy. We’re also able to have an office where we can offer our clients better service. The space really allows the consumer to experience the lifestyle concept of KARE.”

Schönhofen, who launched the brand 40 years ago, started KARE to celebrate individualism. Today, with 100 franchises in 50 countries (including two in Canada), he says this new location really speaks to the

essence of the brand. “Location is so important. We believe in creating an atmosphere that has beautiful interiors, good people and a place where clients like to go. That’s the reason we believe in brick-and-mortar stores,” Schönhofen says. “This location is wonderful, as it’s not in the big city where you’re just another store. Instead, you’re greeted into a welcoming atmosphere where you’ll find unique items you won’t find in other stores.”

Anderson is excited to start the next chapter of the business. “We believe KARE’s creative designs are what people have been craving. We bring something different to the industry. It’s a lifestyle that gives clients the opportunity to express themselves and bring some colour and fun into their lives,” she says.

LEFT TO RIGHT: CARLA GUZMAN, PETER SCHÖNHOFEN, ROB BURTON AND EDILKA ANDERSON.

LEFT TO RIGHT: JULIA SCHÖNHOFEN AND JIMENA BLANCO.

DANCING THE NIGHT AWAY

What do you get when you invite a few hundred of your closest friends to celebrate your magazine? Living Luxe’s first event of 2022 was a resounding success.

Photos By George Pimentel Photography

Pulling off a party for 400 is no easy feat, but after more than two years of missing time spent with our supporters, clients and readers, Team Living Luxe was ready to throw the fête of the year. On Friday May 13, publisher Jennifer Lipkowitz, chief operating officer Anthony Sirianni, editor-in-chief Lisa van de Geyn and creative director Jennifer Douglas welcomed friends at Toronto’s iconic Liberty Grand for a memorable evening of red-carpet-worthy moments, and guests from near and far revelled in the success of Living Luxe magazine.

1. LEFT TO RIGHT: BRENDAN DALY, KUBRA KARAHAN, LAUREN FRIESEN, HELDER AGUIAR, OHNABA QADIR, BRAD GREENLEE. 2. LIVING LUXE PUBLISHER JENNIFER LIPKOWITZ AND LIVING LUXE CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER ANTHONY SIRIANNI. 3. GREGO MINOT AND RAANA KALPAKJI.

PROUD

Friends and family were thrilled to celebrate the magazine with Living Luxe’s team. Luxury cars greeted guests outside the beautifully decorated Liberty Grand (thank you, Nick and Nadia Di Donato!). Inside, guests sipped on the signature drink of the evening — the Luxe-tini (sponsored by Davis Rea), enjoyed a variety of scrumptious hors d’oeuvres and couldn’t get enough of Living Luxe’s own brand of wine, made by Sirianni himself. DJ Fizza was spinning the hottest tunes and the Max Lawson band delighted those who were schmoozing in the main room with their sound. Lush bouquets of flowers (courtesy of Rosarium) surrounded the impeccable space.

4. TANIA TONELLO AND A. PIROUZI 5. LEFT TO RIGHT: PATRICK HUFFMAN, ELAYNE VELASCO, AMBER KLAEHN, JEFF BUZBUZIAN. 6. LIVING LUXE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF LISA VAN DE GEYN AND LIVING LUXE CREATIVE DIRECTOR JENNIFER DOUGLAS. 7. MARY KOUTSOUBOS AND DR. DORI TUNSTALL. 8. LEFT TO RIGHT: SANGITA PATEL, FARAH NASSER, POOJA HANDA, AARTI POOLE, CHRISTI HIMMELHEBER, LILY LI. 9. LEFT TO RIGHT: LIVING LUXE PUBLISHER JENNIFER LIPKOWITZ, DR. PHILIP SOLOMON, REEM KHAN, COURTNEY GEDEON .

“WE

TO HOST EVERYONE AT OUR CELEBRATION.”

Guests were enthralled by Lipkowitz’s heartfelt speech and surprised Living Luxe’s publisher with a video full of birthday wishes. “We were so incredibly proud to host everyone at our celebration. It was so nice to see our readers, clients, contributors and our supportive community. What a truly memorable event — thank you to everyone for being part of it,” says Lipkowitz. “A special thank you to our incredible sponsors for the evening — we couldn’t have done it without you Contempo Studio, Posh Haus, Helicopix, Diego Torres, Jocelyn Alice, Rosarium and Davis Rea. To end off the evening, coffee was provided by JURA and treats by Nina’s VIP Sweets. Swag bags were handed out, too, featuring a special something from Tru-Green Organics, Saint Cosmetics, Pamecare and CIBO. “We can’t wait for our next event,” says Lipkowitz. “This was one I’ll always remember.”

10. ANYA NORDSTROM AND BOJANA SENTALER. 11. DERRICK ROBINSON AND MARIN ZABZUNI. 12. LEFT TO RIGHT: LIVING LUXE FASHION EDITOR CHRISTINE REZVANIAN, LIVING LUXE LIFESTYLE EDITOR JEANNE BEKER, LIVING LUXE PUBLISHER JENNIFER LIPKOWITZ, NADIA DI DONATO, LIVING LUXE PHILANTHROPY EDITOR JOAN KELLEY WALKER. 13. LEFT TO RIGHT: EDILKA ANDERSON, CARLA GUZMAN AND DANEYKA LAZIER.

SOPHIE BRUSSAUX AND GINA DICLEMENTE 15. LEFT TO RIGHT: DIEGO TORRES, AMANDA SAAVEDRA, LIVING LUXE CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER ANTHONY SIRIANNI, LIVING LUXE PUBLISHER JENNIFER LIPKOWITZ, MASEEH SHARIFI, CHRISTINA SHARIFI, MELISSA PROTOMANNI, AKBAR SHARIFI. 16. ANDREA MCMULLEN AND NAOMI SHAPIRO. 13. LEFT TO RIGHT: JENNIFER VALENTYNE, LIVING LUXE PUBLISHER JENNIFER LIPKOWITZ, GEORGIA VALENTYNE.

CAN YOU DO LUNCH?

The Canadian Foundation for AIDS Research brought supporters together and celebrated the 10th anniversary of one of its milestone fundraising events, Can You Do Lunch?

By Christine Rezvanian Photos by Ryan Bolton Photography

On April 28, the Canadian Foundation for AIDS Research (CANFAR) celebrated the 10th anniversary of Can You Do Lunch? (CYDL) at the Four Seasons Hotel in Toronto. The CYDL event is an opportunity for CANFAR to raise awareness of important issues related to AIDS and HIV while highlighting people who have made significant contributions to help reach CANFAR’s goals. This year’s event, cochaired by founder Janice O’Born and CANFAR’s national spokesperson Valerie Pringle, paid tribute to prominent women who have been at the forefront of the fight to end HIV in Canada. The event celebrated critical people from the scientific and medical communities, as well as philanthropists and community leaders and the leadership of women living with HIV. A special tribute was also given to the Honourable Hilary Weston for her long-time support of CANFAR. “This is such a pivotal time, with trial cures being developed to treat HIV. We are grateful for all the women who have gotten our community in Canada and globally to where it is today,” says CANFAR CEO Alex Filiatrault. The afternoon was a beautiful celebration of support for CANFAR and its fight to end HIV in this country.

TOP IMAGE, LEFT TO RIGHT: JANICE O’BORN (CYDL CO-CHAIR AND FOUNDER); ALEX FILIATRAULT (CANFAR CEO); AND VALERIE PRINGLE (CANFAR NATIONAL SPOKESPERSON AND CYDL CO-CHAIR).

“ THE EVENT CELEBRATED CRITICAL

PEOPLE FROM THE SCIENTIFIC AND MEDICAL COMMUNITIES, AS WELL AS PHILANTHROPISTS AND COMMUNITY LEADERS AND THE LEADERSHIP OF WOMEN LIVING WITH HIV.”

LEFT TO RIGHT: 1. LEFT TO RIGHT: LILY LI AND LIVING LUXE FASHION EDITOR CHRISTINE REZVANIAN. 2. SCOTT BRISON (BSE26 CO-CHAIR); NADA RISTICH (BMO); CANDICE SINCLAIR (BSE26 CO-CHAIR); AND MAXINE ST-PIERRE (BSE26 CO-CHAIR). 3. CATHERINE NUGENT; DANA MARGOLIS; AND LIVING LUXE LIFESTYLE EDITOR JEANNE BEKER. 4. MULUBA HABANYAMA (CANFAR AMBASSADOR). 5. ROXANNE MA (DIRECTOR OF NATIONAL AWARENESS PROGRAMS, CANFAR) AND ASHLEY ROSE MURPHY (CANFAR AMBASSADOR).

SERENITY NOW

We’ve never seen a more stunning swimming pool. Leave it to Lori Morris Design to create this simply breathtaking atmosphere.

Jeanne Beker Lifestyle Editor

WONDER WOMEN

Suzanne Rogers and Sylvia Mantella are more than two of Toronto’s most elegant, philanthropic and sensational women — they’re a couple of mothers and best friends who love their families and each other fiercely. Lifestyle editor Jeanne Beker spoke to the dynamic duo about their similar upbringing, their affinity for giving back, their undeniable style and what it’s like being in the spotlight. Here’s what the perfect pair told her.

By Jeanne Beker Photography by Chris Nicholls Post Production by Patty Watteyne

Suzanne Rogers: Styling by Cary Tauben, The Project Hair by Klodi Makeup by Jessica Savedra

Sylvia Mantella: Makeup by Cia Manderello & Patrick Rahme Hair by Kirsten Klontz & Helen Kenny

You could call them kindred spirits: United by common passions for family, philanthropy and fashion, Suzanne Rogers and Sylvia Mantella share a special bond of friendship that’s as inspiring as it is enviable. As Toronto’s most sartorially glamorous powerhouses, the two blonde dynamos have helped raise millions of dollars for a variety of charitable causes, and continue to sponsor and chair a dizzying number of memorable community events. From helping children, animals, and aspiring designers to supporting hospitals and museums, Suzanne and Sylvia have proved themselves to be indefatigable cheerleaders for a wide range of heartfelt causes, and they do it all with great aplomb.

As the wives of two of Toronto’s most high-profile and successful businessmen — Suzanne is married to Edward Rogers, chairman of Rogers Communications Inc., and Sylvia is married to real estate developer Robert Mantella, president and CEO of Mantella Corporation — these unstoppable gals explain their close friendship as one of those things that happened organically. “When you hit it off with someone and they just become a very important part of your life,”

SYLVIA MANTELLA:

Dress by Mikhael Kale Makeup by Cia Manderello Hair by Kirsten Klontz

SUZANNE ROGERS: Dress by Greta Constantine Styling by Cary Tauben, The Project Hair by Klodi Makeup by Jessica Savedra

SUZANNE ROGERS:

Dress by Narces Styling by Cary Tauben, The Project Hair by Klodi Makeup by Jessica Savedra

reflects Suzanne. It was 2008, at a Bill Clinton event at the Rogers’ residence, when the pair first met. “I'll never forget it because I didn't really know anybody in the house, and Suzanne came right over and took my hand and pulled me through the crowd,” recalls Sylvia. “She introduced me to Bill, Matt Damon and all these incredible celebrities who are also very philanthropic and I don't remember ever leaving her side. It was just such a connection.” Not long after that very first meeting, Suzanne launched her initial “Suzanne Rogers Presents” event to support children’s charities — a signature production which, for that first go-round in 2010, boasted an impressive runway collection from the legendary Oscar de la Renta. Sylvia eagerly came on as a lead sponsor and committee member. It marked the first collaboration between the newfound friends, and proved to be a partnership made in heaven. The two claim they’ve never had a fight or argument because they have so much respect for each other. “We communicate,” Sylvia stresses. Suzanne pipes in, “Friendship should be easy. And this is definitely an easy friendship.”

Each the mother of three, the like-minded ladies have even more in common than their lavish lifestyles and love of serving the community in meaningful and fun ways: Both are of eastern European descent. First-generation Canadians, they’re the children of immigrants who came here with little and scrimped and saved to give their families a better life. Their parents’ examples provided untold life lessons about survival and values. “Our backgrounds are very, very simple. We came from humble

beginnings,” explains Suzanne, who was born in Elliot Lake, Ont. “My father was a miner and my mother ran a daycare. People always ask me, “How does it feel to be a Rogers? And my answer has always been, ‘I was Suzanne Kolev until I was 35!’ I've been Suzanne Kolev with my background long before I was married. So to me, that never leaves. And the frilly dresses and the fashion shows, that's icing on the cake. But my background is very solid from where I've come from. I dressed in Goodwill clothing until I was 11 years old. My prom dress was $20. I picked it out at a vintage shop in London, Ont. So my sense of style also comes from pulling from the high and the low, and that just comes from my background. You know, there is always a backstory.”

And when it comes to the importance of backstories, Sylvia is on the same page. Her parents immigrated to Canada in 1968. “My father escaped from a onceoccupied Hitler Czechoslovakia, which then became the Communist Party of Czechoslovakia, with Soviet backing,” explains Sylvia. “My mom went to Austria and was literally walking the street with friends, and somebody approached her and said, ‘Do you want to go to Canada? The Canadian Embassy is paying people to come to the country.’ And she got on a plane with another boy and a girl. She spoke no English. And they gave them $100, and she came to Canada and then my parents met. And so I come from very, very humble beginnings. You just don't forget that.”

Considering their similar backgrounds of coming from so little, perhaps it’s not hard to

"WHEN YOU HIT IT OFF WITH SOMEONE AND THEY JUST BECOME A VERY IMPORTANT PART OF YOUR LIFE."

understand the spirit of generosity that both Suzanne and Sylvia are famous for. As one might imagine, countless requests for support are constantly coming across their desks. How do they decide what to throw their weight behind? “It's just what feels right,” says Suzanne. “It’s just something that will come across my desk, and I’ll know. Okay! That’s the one! I can make a difference here.” Sylvia concurs. “I think that we probably receive dozens of asks in a week, predominantly in the areas of children and domestic violence. And I'm very honoured to serve on the board of directors for CANFAR, the Canadian Foundation for AIDS Research, which is really important to me. And Suzanne sits on the foundation board of SickKids Hospital.”

The Canadian fashion flag is something that both Sylvia and Suzanne also wave proudly, and both have been staunch supporters of some of our greatest homegrown design talents for years. And because Suzanne realizes that opening doors can be key to a designer’s success, she founded the Suzanne Rogers Fashion Institute at Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson University) in 2016, a fellowship program to help graduates launch their debut collections, meet potential employers and pursue their fashion dreams. As well, her monetary awards to young Canadian designers via the Canadian Arts and Fashion Awards (CAFA) have also been highly lauded. Of course, what Suzanne would really like to see is the return of Toronto Fashion Week. “I think that would put us on the map, at least a little bit. We have the talent. We definitely need more support in that area,” she opines. “I think we're still very much in the background. But there's definitely potential for us to be taking more of a centre stage in Canadian fashion. We do have incredible talent, but it's been slow to happen, that's for sure.” Sylvia laments that our Canadian designers don’t have the kind of platform they deserve. “And that’s something that we’d love to be a part of,” she says. But both women agree that the biggest problem for our fashion industry is funding. “That’s what it comes down to — dollars and cents for these Canadian designers,” offers Suzanne. “I really do believe the talent’s there, but to do the kind of marketing they need to do, to get that kind of financing, well it's just not available to Canadian designers. And until that changes, not much will change.”

It goes without saying that both Suzanne and Sylvia relish any opportunity to personally support Canadian talent, and for this Living Luxe photoshoot, they were adamant about strutting local designs exclusively. They both have a strong and unique sense of style, and while their choices may be different, they have a mutual appreciation of each other’s approach.

“Suzanne is the epitome of elegance,” notes Sylvia. “Every time I see her, even if it's track pants, it's so elegant. She's beautifully put together, just always impeccably dressed. She's so

SUZANNE ROGERS:

by

Dress

Narces Styling by Cary Tauben, The Project Hair by Klodi Makeup by Jessica Savedra

classic and almost princess-like and gracious. When she walks into a room you know Suzanne Rogers just walked into that room.” Suzanne’s admiration of Sylvia’s style sense is reciprocal. “Sylvia takes risks in her fashion,” she says. “She's the one who will wear Gaultier during couture, with the big crazy hat or the Balenciaga couture! I don't take that many risks. But when she’s in Paris for Fashion Week, the cameras just go wild because she's the one always standing out, taking that chance in fashion and always switching up her looks, always looking different. And I really admire her for that.”

Sylvia’s sometimes wild sartorial ways usually take a backseat to one of her other major passions: rehabilitating wild animals. In 2010, she and her husband founded the Mantella Exotic Animal Sanctuary and Conservation in Florida, a private, non-profit, privately funded facility that’s a virtual Shangri-La for a plethora of beautiful creatures, and Sylvia is very hands-on when it comes to caring for them. She attributes her great love of animals to the fact that she was an only child until she was about 15, when both her parents remarried. “Growing up, I didn't have a lot of friends and animals were my friends, especially our dogs, fish, cats. And so, I developed a huge passion. Even when my family would go up north and visit friends, I'd be in the grass looking for toads and for mice that I could save,” she laughs. Her husband is a huge animal lover, too. “He was also going to the lakes and catching toads and the same sort of thing. And, because we were spending a lot of time in the US, we realized that there was a real space that wasn't being addressed, and that was animals that needed rescue from displacement, abuse and neglect and exploitation,” she explains. And so, the wildlife sanctuary was born. It’s a place that’s brings her untold joy, and Suzanne is quick to sing the reserve's praises as well: Sylvia hosted an intimate birthday party there for Suzanne’s 13-year-old son! Sylvia’s specialty these past 10 years has been in rehabilitation of the animals. “It’s mostly the smaller animals. I leave the tigers or lions to Robert. But primates and several sloths, I think we have 27 now. We have well over 200 animals, and it's just something we both

SUZANNE AND SYLVIA RELISH ANY OPPORTUNITY TO PERSONALLY SUPPORT CANADIAN TALENT, AND FOR THIS LIVING LUXE PHOTOSHOOT, THEY WERE ADAMANT ABOUT STRUTTING LOCAL DESIGNS EXCLUSIVELY.

SYLVIA MANTELLA:

Dress by Mikhael Kale Hair by Helen Kenny Makeup by Patrick Rahme

SYLVIA MANTELLA: Suit by RVNG Shoes by House Of Hayla Hair by Helen Kenny Makeup by Patrick Rahme

can't even imagine not doing, not being there. Every animal has a name, all 200 of them,” she says proudly.

With their busy lifestyles, both women are rarely in the same place together. Yet they still try to hang out as much as possible, and with husbands Edward and Robert having become great friends, it makes for fun times. But it’s in their roles as mothers that Suzanne and Sylvia perhaps feel the strongest connection: They’re both adamant about making sure their kids don’t take their privileged lives for granted.

“My children have seen both sides,” says Suzanne. “They've seen the Rogers’ side growing up and the benefits and the security that comes from that, and they have my mother telling them that she stood in a food line in the 1956 revolution. So they see their Hungarian “Nagyi” and they hear all of her stories. And that’s made for a definite balance in my life.” Sylvia instills this in her children, too. She describes her mother, who’s back in the Czech Republic now, as being very down to earth. “It's really a balance. Because our children are exposed to some incredible things in life, but that also brings some incredible opportunity. And with the charity work that we do, our kids are very, very aware and sometimes they're involved in it, too. So they understand that. That responsibility is something that’s very prevalent when we’re out in the public.”

Suzanne and Sylvia’s newest project is cochairing a major fundraising event this fall for Camp Fire Circle, formerly known as Camp Ooch. It’s an oncology camp for children with cancer — the only one of its kind in Canada, with a clinic set up right at the camp. “It's the first time that all these kids can come together as a community and not feel like that kid with cancer in class, because all the children have cancer and that experience bonds them,” explains Sylvia. “When it comes to children and childhood cancer, we try to do whatever we can.”

While these fashionable philanthropists realize the im-

portance of the role they play in influencing our community, they also cherish the influence they have on one another. What’s been the biggest lesson learned from their relationship? “Don’t listen to the noise,” states Suzanne, without skipping a beat. “I know that's a bit of a cliché statement, but I'm telling you, it's really true. We honestly have incredible families. We have incredibly supportive husbands, and our backgrounds are incredibly similar. We are grounded. And people see this. And people who don't know us will sometimes make judgment on this. And that's an easy thing to do. In the beginning, when Sylvia and I would do events together and we'd be out there, there were a lot of mean things said, a lot of hurtful, hurtful things. And as you get older and as you become more evolved and more grounded as a person and believe in what you do, you do cut out the noise.

After being such special friends for close to 15 years, well, that’s what really matters. You do learn that.” Sylvia smiles. “And the people who don't like or hate or troll, you're never going to change their minds. And that's okay. It doesn't matter. It's not a part of our life. It's the people who matter. It's the people who are friends. It's the people who care. Those are the people who we keep close. And sometimes that noise hurts at first. But then we've got a great family and a great support system to just let us know it doesn't matter. You have to be happy with your choices. You have to wake up every morning and look in the mirror and you have to live with your life and your choices. And I can look in there and Suzanne can, too.”

Unquestionably, it’s authenticity and that magical combination of compassion, kindness and generosity, sprinkled with a healthy dose of high glam, that make the world go round for both these iconic women. “We love the glamour!” admits Suzanne with a laugh. “But we also love our Lululemon and just going about our day. And occasionally, we throw on things like this. And it’s so much fun!”

IT’S AUTHENTICITY AND THAT MAGICAL COMBINATION OF COMPASSION, KINDNESS AND GENEROSITY, SPRINKLED WITH A HEALTHY DOSE OF HIGH GLAM, THAT MAKE THE WORLD GO ROUND FOR BOTH THESE ICONIC WOMEN.

ODErn a storiama

By Lisa van de Geyn Photography by

For John-Luke and Jesse Sahlani, it all starts with a sketch. The brothers are the cofounders of Sensus Design & Build, an architectural design, interior design and construction firm. Jesse is a talented architectural designer, while John-Luke brings a breadth of project management and construction experience to the table. The pair started Sensus Design & Build with the goal of bringing projects with immense architectural value to life. The projects have grown in size over the years, but the sentiment of being a design-based company that has the expertise to efficiently execute these projects in construction remains the same. "Jesse starts every project by exploring all the avenues of potential for the design, this is a really special process to see because it starts with site scouting and sketching. Every time I walk into his office, I find stacks of

When a pair of brothers approached Sensus Design & Build — run by brothers John-Luke and Jesse Sahlani — to design and build a custom home for their multigenerational family, this exquisite abode went from dream to reality.

Natalie Hayes & Nicole Aubrey Portrait Photography by Alvaro Goveia

"the thing about the Sahlani brothers is that they’re extremely versatilE."

sketches with wild ideas that are somehow very buildable. We work together in the early phases of a project to ensure the constructability of the design is practical and within Budget. We've worked in lockstep for years, so we really enjoy working collaboratively to treat each interior design plan as a passion project. Once construction starts, I have a clear vision for execution because I have been so deeply involved in the process,” says John-Luke, adding the company has 25 support staff helping the pair. (In their years in business, they’ve done about 400 construction projects and more than 1,700 architectural projects.) “We run our firm in a way where we believe we are committing to each project personally. We’re both very hands-on and every single detail must be approved by us. Our streamlined approach and robust, diverse portfolio of design speak to how hands-on we are in the process,” says John-Luke. “This is what we love doing.” Their impressive hands-on approach to serving clients and the pure adoration they have for their work show in their luxurious custom-built homes. Working on builds between 3,000 and 20,000 square feet, the duo is extremely detailed, starting each client’s dream home with a sketch. “That’s how the process starts — sketching. It’s the easiest and most explorative way to determine the exact proportions of the structure that you have in your mind. It also allows you to have collaborative design meetings with your client. Looking at proportions, symmetry and trying to figure out how to get as much natural light into the house, all these factors we consider to be principles of timeless design,” he explains. “The goal is that when you drive by one of our homes, you should never be able to tell when it was actually built. That’s the true test of a design — the test of time.”

This is the epitome of a modern, timeless abode. Dubbed “Modern Astoria” (named after one of the most coveted homes in the world), the original home was a quaint little two-storey on a spacious lot in North York. When Sensus Design & Build took on the project, the brothers had the original home torn down and rebuilt what stands today — an exceptionally stunning space full of grandeur, with incredible detail and brilliantly unique design.

Coincidentally, it was a pair of brothers who contacted John-Luke and Jesse for this build — they had seen the company’s work on social media and were interested in Sensus Design & Build taking on their 4,000-square-foot project, a seven-bedroom home that would house a multigenerational family of seven. “It turned out that we were two brothers working in lockstep with another pair of brothers working in lockstep. Our interests were perfectly aligned in that we wanted to create a very unique space that would characterize the backdrop for the growth of the family. We all agreed that luxurious environments increase our enjoyment of the time we spend in them. With that sentiment in mind, we built the vision for each space in the home individually, without thinking about how they would gel together in the end,” says John-Luke.

The exterior is done in a dark, modern brick, black aluminum panels and a very rustic stone. “The goal was to be slick, modern and clean from the outset — we wanted it to be muted and really focus on the proportions,” he says. “The rustic stone paired with these sleek modern materials offer that contrast that works so perfectly.”

When you enter home on the main floor, you’re greeted by a five-foot-wide, eight-foottall, 1,500-pound steel door, which welcomes you into a 24-foot-tall palatial foyer. One of

the home’s most unique features is found right upon entry — the massive custom fish tank that’s filled with 300 fish is an absolute showpiece and conversation starter. On either side of the nine-foot-tall tank, there are stunning marble slabs with brilliant grey veining and lush live walls that bring the outdoors in. The rest of the main level includes a dining room with stunning chevron hardwood inlays and a temperature-controlled wine enclosure that’s perfect for entertaining guests. The modern staircase with integrated LED lighting is architecturally stunning. In the kitchen, complete with dark-wood accents and matte-black cabinetry, there’s an impressive Wolf range, a galley sink and two large islands with enough seating to accommodate family and visitors. The fireplace in the living room is a marvel — it was fabricated and manufactured in Europe, then shipped and installed on-site. It’s surrounded by marble slabs, which repeat in various areas throughout the home. There’s also a master bedroom with large ensuite on this floor, and the elevator, which is ideal for a multigenerational family.

"An exceptionally stunning space full of grandeur, with incredible detail and brilliantly unique design."

LEFT TO RIGHT: JESSE SAHLANI AND JOHN-LUKE SAHLANI

An impressive feature is the back of the home — it’s almost entirely done in glass with soaring floor-to-ceiling windows. “We did a detailed sun study to understand how we were going to harness as much natural light into the house as possible. That was a huge part of this build — it was trying to determine how to get a good 10 to 12 hours of sunlight during the summer solstice,” he says.

Step outside and guests are immediately greeted with an outdoor entertainment space that’s just as brilliantly designed as the interior. “Outside, there’s a huge deck for outdoor entertaining, two pergolas (one over the hot tub and one over the dining area), as well as outdoor chandeliers and a TV. The goal for this space was to be a three-season entertainment area that serves as an extension of the kitchen and living room. To achieve this environment, we created a seamless transition between the two spaces using a flush-mounted accordion door, added exterior radiant patio heaters and created an automatic enclosure for the outdoor dining area,” says John-Luke. The rest of the yard is surrounded by lush plants and exterior lighting.

The thing about the Sahlani brothers is that they’re extremely versatile. While this exquisite abode takes on a more modern approach, Jesse also gravitates toward French Chateau, English Manor and Georgian designs. “Whether we’re doing a modern space or we want to add a contemporary flair to a historically timeless design style, it never comes down to just one design feature,” says John-Luke. “These design categorizations can’t be pinpointed by one single element of the design as they come from a combination of 15 to 20 tiny profiles, reveal changes and refinements. An immense amount of detail goes into our process, and it’s attention to these minor details that we believe really sets our work apart.”

"Their impressive hands-on approach to serving clients and the pure adoration they have for their work show in their luxurious custom-built homes. "

Luscious blooms and breezes fill the air.

PASTEL Paradise

With a shine of excellence and a style and vibe that’s uniquely her own, the incomparable Lori Morris presents this spectacular abode — true splendour by the sea. This is the inimitable House of Lori Morris Design.

By Lisa van de Geyn Photography by Brandon Barré

Master artist and iconic interior designer Lori Morris is the undisputable definition of effervescence. She has this flawless sparkle, an unmatched vivacity. It’s one of the first things you notice about her when you meet, and it’s a brilliant quality that just shines through in the couture work she does for her lively firm, Lori Morris Design, which she has cultivated into one of the most coveted design houses. She specializes in glamour

Working from home.

and grandeur, and her work is utterly dazzling. A true artist who infuses her expertise and experience into clients’ homes, Morris creates spaces worthy of praise that anyone would long to live in, no matter their style, genre or colour preferences.

This spectacular home in Boca Raton, Florida, is a first-class case in point, and it’s what Morris refers to as old-world extravagance with a new rocker beat — a style she truly excels in. “In this particular place, because we are in this tropical setting where you have the ocean breezes and the beautiful sunsets and the sunrises, to add that colour palette into the home, it brings a dancing party of sunshine and playfulness together with pure elegance and an exciting rocker beat that LMD is known for,” Morris says vivaciously.

Morris is more than a master of the interior. The pool in the family’s backyard is proof that her work is nothing short of a tour de force. With stunning Spanish-style authentic architecture and breathtaking views of the ocean with palms swaying, and pretty hibiscus delicately growing, the true centrepiece of the yard is the pool, which was created as an entertainment

spot but enhanced in a way that only Morris could conceive. “Instead of just having a gorgeous pool, which it already was, surrounded by beautiful handpainted pink-and-white Wedgwood planters, a hand-carved fountain and stunning furniture, I decided that the best way to really give it that sparkle and that LMD sex appeal was to create an incredible mosaic hibiscus right in the middle of the pool,” she says. “It just elevates the design with its sparkle and ethereal beauty.” The colour palette is sublime and so full of whimsy. Florida is the perfect location for bringing the inside out and the outside in. “With it being so tropical here and having the beautiful pastel colours of all the florals with lush stunning green palm trees, the foliage and all the grass, and then of course the sunsets that go from pinks to blues to greens to intense blue skies, I’ve just thrown it all together into a floral kaleidoscope in the pool and it sings.”

Inside, Morris’s “Sexy French” style shines and exudes a certain effortless aura that feels electrifying yet comfortable. Her untamed imagination, “no rules” policy and matchless design wisdom reign supreme when in the presence of her

Her untamed imagination, “no rules” policy and matchless design wisdom reign supreme when in the presence of her bold, sexy, sophisticated style.

bold, sexy, sophisticated style. The plush heaven that is the butterfly-inspired bedroom has beautiful, sexy French blush pink wallpaper with Champagne explosions of floral abstract design. She included a plush blush velvet headboard with hand-painted florals to look like colourful Wedgwood. Rich furs, opulent velvets and lush textures are thrown together on the bed with the Lori Morris French pink feathered lamp. It’s always such an interesting palette party of textures, patterns and colours when working with Morris.

The feeling throughout the immaculate 12,500-square-foot estate is mesmerizing and every glorious detail has been personally crafted, designed and curated by Morris. The coffee-and-pastry station in the second-floor hallway was created as a chic destination where guests could enjoy a coffee and croissant during a busy day or before retiring for the evening. “The homeowners are big entertainers and I wanted to honour that. This is a pretty pink blush-coloured background with accented Champagne-gold carvings and the most beautiful one-of-a-kind yellow-and-grey marble that I’ve ever seen that we sourced in Miami. The vintage Lucite-and-brass bar stools with pink leather tops work beautifully,” she says.

The principal suite is filled with Morris’s luxe sensibilities. On one end, she’s cultivated the perfect home office and chose to emphasize the fireplace wall, with back-painted gold glass panels that have been striped with a hand-carved baby-blue strapping that also surrounds the mirror, as well as the custom baby-blue lacquered cabinetry with a full coffee and appliance station. “We’ve made the whole house cohesive in its colour palette of baby blue and soft blush pinks with gold accents,” she says. “There’s also a beautiful sitting area with the cream lacquer desk, so it’s really an in-house office suite that’s enthralled in the decoration around it to make it feel both comforting and functional at the same time.”

On the other end of the expansive principal suite sits a lavish yet relaxing place where the couple can meet before going into their boudoirs. “We did a custom-designed beautiful bench done with a mirrored surround and sumptuous crushed velvet fabric with a stunning medley of fabric including pillows done in fur with lots of textures and patterns. The deco ’40s glass Italian-style cabinets are done in pink and grey glass and we’ve accompanied them with pink and brass lamps with custom-made pink and brass shades.”

The hues, paired with such luscious textures, make this oceanfront property a high-style pastel palace. “You wouldn’t even believe it until you’re there. You could see a sunset and see blues and pinks and creams and it’s mind-blowing — you don’t even think that it’s real, but it is, and it just brings that explosion and colours the place. It’s just one big happy party of a pastel paradise with a shine of excellence,” she says blissfully. “It’s super-exciting because it’s exhilarating — you’re always challenging the boundaries of your comfort zone of design and challenging the boundaries of what you want to do as an original piece of art and create that intense creativity and, at the same time, make it all dance together.”

A golden sphere of crystal butterflies fills your dreams as you drift off every night only to wake up in a plush heaven every morning.

EVOLUTION PROCESS OF

Element Modern Dwellings started out as a one-person construction company. Today, it’s blossomed into a firm that celebrates every facet of homebuilding, from architectural design to project management. Here’s its backstory.

By Lisa van de Geyn Photography by Rob Holowka and Peter A. Sellar

My goal is for it to feel like a family business, which is important to me, but have the efficiencies and disciplines of a corporation.

Helder Aguiar is a force. He’s filled to the brim with passion for what he does, and he possesses a very likeable enthusiasm that just radiates from him when he speaks about design. He’s so personable that you find yourself wanting to be in his orbit. The principle of Element Modern Dwellings, Aguiar is about as dynamic as they come. Not only is he diverse, smart and zealous, he’s a true visionary with an intense pride for his work and for his team. His experience and zest for modern design make him a powerhouse in the worlds of architectural design, interior design and project management. And after 17 years in the business, he finds himself at the top of his game.

Helder has always been a go-getter. He grew up with his mother, a tailor, and his uncle, a master carpenter and furniture maker. “I was always working with my hands, and I was really good at it. I would work with my uncle when I wasn’t in school. I just loved it and had a real affinity for it,” he says. While his education led him into a diverse career — including a 12-year stint as a project manager for telecom and software corporations on Toronto’s bustling Bay Street — he never lost that passion for residential and commercial construction; the kind of work he came to love as a boy. So, while working as a busy executive, Aguiar started taking on side gigs — he’d renovate and remodel for friends, family and neighbours. Before he knew it, word spread, and he was accepting jobs from clients. Eventually, when his plate was full, he knew it was time to take the plunge and leave the comfort of his career. “It just wasn’t a part-time

job anymore. And that’s when Element was born,” he says. “Back then, it was just my uncle and I on jobs. We started with basements and remodels, just doing building projects. When my uncle retired, I continued doing larger additions and new builds, and I ended up doing quite a lot of the design legwork myself, too.” Then, in a very serendipitous way, 2015 brought Element’s first major evolution — Brendan Daly. As though it was meant to be, Brendan’s presence as Helder’s business partner brought a gelling of two approaches — Brendan’s strong mechanical, engineering and technical background, and Helder’s keen vision and design prowess. Grounded in a solid friendship, a dynamic partnership developed. After several years, this driven duo had an epiphany of sorts: the only way to take this wee firm to the next level would be to bring architectural design, interior design and project management under one roof.

Today, the firm handles every aspect of the design and construction management work. Included in his team are 16 of the most carefully selected, talented, and skilled architectural designers, interior designers, and project managers. “Within those disciplines, each is independently exceptional, successful, and sustainable. We’re not just a builder who also designs, or a design firm that also builds. These are three independently successful aspects of the business that work beautifully together,” he explains. Element’s dynamic and diverse team brings a wide range of skillsets, life experiences, personal style and

perspectives, all of which work flawlessly with the firm’s culture. “It creates a perfect synergy in our process. My goal is for it to feel like a family business, which is very important to me, but have the efficiencies and disciplines of a corporation — I want us to have that link.” This vision has been the foundation of element’s evolution – the foundation on which our incredible team, clients, and partners in this industry now proudly stand on.

When a client contacts Element Modern Dwellings, Aguiar acts as a curator and guide. “I pride myself on breaking down walls with clients and getting on the same page. Mutual trust is very important when it comes to our work,” he explains. “It’s important that we embark on their journey on the same side of the table.” He builds a rapport with the client and brings them into the studio to help them find or vet a property. Once there’s a property locked down, it’s about getting into the client’s head. “We talk about requirements, needs, aesthetics. We have an extensive intake questionnaire and consultation process to get all the details we need.”

At this point, Aguiar will bring in one of his architectural designers, so they can start absorbing the project. Soon the vision board is completed with all the necessary requirements to ensure the homeowner’s lifestyle is respected. Floor plans are drawn and presented. At the same time, the assigned interior designer has already begun to influence space planning and can now start their core work in parallel with the architectural designer. And when the selection of materials and products for the home are wrapped, the project manager joins the crew under Brendan’s leadership. Aguiar has cultivated a seamless process — it’s like

a symphony, with all the sections playing their parts in tandem. “That’s the synergy that happens when we work in parallel instead of silos — handing off pieces of the project as they’re completed.”

Since inception, Element Modern Dwellings has done more than 250 projects. Aguiar has kept records from each — he still learns from past work and references details. One exciting project the team is currently working on is dubbed “Gordon Woods” — a cul-desac of eight homes in Mississauga they’re designing and building from the ground up. “I’ve known the developer for years and he always appreciated the calibre of our work. He talked about this property and when soon after he purchased it, he said he wanted my team and I on the job,” he says. Each home is 5,000 to 6,500 square feet. They have all the key staples of a luxury modern home, including elevators, four to five bedrooms with ensuites, home theatres, wine cellars, spas, gyms, nanny suites and a few unexpected Element surprises to continue to push the envelope. “These homes will have a strong modern, timeless appeal. It’s what we do best. The cool thing is, you won’t find eight super-high-end modern designed and built homes done by the same folks in the same locale anywhere in the Greater Toronto Area.”

When it comes down to it, the firm’s a well-oiled machine that thrives on creating the perfect timeless spaces for its clients. “My entire team is inspired by their work, and they have freedom to push the envelope. I believe in them,” affirms Aguiar. “It sounds cliché, but this is a labour of love. I paid my dues and left a very successful career to do what I truly love, and we’ve come out the other side.”

The firm’s a well-oiled machine that thrives on creating the perfect timeless spaces for its clients.

High- y STANDARDS

Cohen Homes & Estates has been defining luxury real estate for decades and their latest estate o ering is no exception.

By Adriana Ermter Photography by The Print Market & Lucas Scarfone

Defining a luxury home is more complex than simply adding zeros to the end of the listing’s price tag. The estate is located in a highly desirable location, one that is easily accessible to everything the city offers, yet remote enough to feel like a private oasis. The grounds are lush and beautifully landscaped and complement the home’s eye-catching exterior, while the interior is expansive with a thoughtfully laid-out floor plan. High-quality materials and finishes, upscale amenities, an outdoor pool and hot tub, a multi-car garage, media room and smart-home technology all reign, with every last

detail meticulously planned and executed. This is extravagance at its finest. It’s also the standard Cohen Homes & Estates, one of Toronto’s foremost luxury real estate firms, has achieved for more than 35 years. In fact, Cohen and his team are known for selling some of the city’s finest estates. “The homes we put on the market are a combination of luxury and convenience,” affirms Barry Cohen, the president and broker for the family-run organization. “We have a lot of pride in our work. The craftsmanship and quality of the estates we sell justify their value and their description of being a luxury home.”

A timeless masterpiece in Toronto’s coveted Lawrence Park neighbourhood valued at a $26.9 million listing price is the firm’s latest grand estate to hit the market. Just minutes north of downtown Toronto, Lawrence Park was one of city’s first garden suburbs in 1907. Since then, it has grown into a well-situated area complete with inner-city accessibility and exclusive community feel. Bordered by Yonge Street to the west, Bayview Avenue to the east, Blythwood Ravine to the south and Lawrence Avenue to the north, 16 Stratheden Road is a rare, stunning and sprawling stone estate. Twice the size of most homes in the area, Nuvo Homes transformed two properties into one, creating an enormous 150-foot by 135-foot lot, perfectly framed with a matching stone fence. “When you drive up, the stone façade is so gorgeous, you stop just to take it all in,” says Cohen.

Picturesque with grass-bordered stones, the heated driveway leads past the home’s elegant front door to the side of the house and its indoor subterranean 12-car garage, inclusive of a cantilevered hydraulic

lift. Backtrack to the wooden front door and it opens to a gorgeous grand foyer with marble floors and soaring cathedral ceilings. This air of elegance and grace flows naturally into the shared living rooms of the home, where the family room features a glass-surround cupola ceiling and a marble ensconced fireplace. Heated stone and repurposed elm floors lead to the main floor’s additional rooms inclusive of a library, solarium, wine cellar and kitchen.

“The gourmet kitchen is simply spectacular,” adds Cohen. “It’s incredibly high-end with a stone backsplash, Miele and Sub-Zero appliances. Everything you could ask for.” With an oversized island that comfortably seats four, a butler’s kitchen with a walk-in cooler offering as surplus of storage and customized details carried over throughout, this kitchen truly is the heart of the home. Six bedrooms and 10 bathrooms help claim the rest of the 10,500-square feet of above-ground living space, complete with a meticulously designed principal suite featuring his-and-hers walk-in closets and an airy ensuite bathroom.

“It’s a house you can lose yourself in,” says Cohen. “With its hotel-like feel in the back area with the pool, spa, fireplace and lounge chairs, the lighting on the façade, the home theatre in the lower level and an elevator to get you everywhere, it’s the perfect combination of both comfort and convenience.”

The lower level is just as opulent as the rest of the house, and it was brilliantly built with family in mind. A state-of-the-art theatre makes movie night an event with big-screen viewing and surround-sound acoustics. A billiard room with ample space to play

pool or board games with the kids can easily transform into poker night for the adult set, with its access to the home’s wet bar and cigar lounge. A soothing spa area provides room to relax and unwind.

“Lawrence Park is very peaceful and tranquil with mature trees and parks close by,” says Cohen. “To find a lot size like this in this neighbourhood is extremely rare. This is an exceptional home; it’s a rare find. It offers the Rosedale feel, but in north Toronto and with more space to live in and to entertain, so that you have everything you could ever want and then some.”

“ IT’S A HOUSE YOU CAN LOSE YOURSELF IN. IT OFFERS THE ROSEDALE FEEL, BUT IN NORTH TORONTO AND WITH MORE SPACE TO LIVE IN AND TO ENTERTAIN, SO THAT YOU HAVE EVERYTHING YOU COULD EVER WANT AND THEN SOME.”

This incredible space evokes feelings of both grandeur and comfort.

Breath Breath a of fresh air

This stunning space in Oakville, Ont., is the epitome of what designer Darlene Janeiro calls “liveable luxury.” We caught up with her to discuss the renovation, redesign and refresh.

By Lisa van de Geyn Photography by Larry Arnal

“

and management. This particular home was special to her, as the homeowners are both in the medical field, and have been working tirelessly throughout the pandemic. Because of their busy careers, the couple envisioned a true oasis – a place that felt comfortable, yet exuded elegance and refinement. “In the chaotic world we live in, creating a home that nurtures and offers solace is really important. With the daily stresses that they face, it’s nice for them to have a beautiful and functional refuge,” says Janeiro.

This 3,000-square-foot home was an exciting project for Janeiro, as she had been working with the client for a few years already on the previously renovated second floor. Their partnership extended into one that would see the main floor take on a completely updated and refreshed look and feel. “We took the house apart. The homeowners are meticulous when it comes to their space, so attention to detail was paramount, and I think that shows in the finished product,” she says. “They’ve been living in the home for more than a decade and I’m so glad that we were able to establish this trusting relationship in order to facilitate such substantial changes.”

In the chaotic world we live in, creating a home that nurtures and offers solace is really important. With the daily stresses that they face, it’s nice for them to have a beautiful and functional refuge.

The main level is made up of a spacious floor plan that includes the kitchen, den, dining room, piano room, powder room, living room and mudroom. “My aim is always to go for a timeless look, regardless of the passing trends,” she says. When you walk into the foyer, there are design elements that immediately command attention. The first is the magnificent fireplace, cladded with Cambria stone. “It’s one of the first things you see. It used to be a three-sided fireplace but there was no pizzazz to it — it wasn’t impactful. I really wanted it to be a focal point and for it to be seen from all rooms,” she says. The fresh sage-green colour on the walls was a shade the homeowner felt strongly about, and wanted to keep it incorporated with the new changes. “By keeping the furniture monochromatic, it paired well with the traditional sage colour, but still added a fresh new dimension to the space.” Additionally, Janeiro used modern fabrics and subtle prints to create a juxtaposition in the styling.

The couple’s character shines through in their kitchen as well. Janeiro opted for beautifully intricate millwork, brass-toned hardware and a metal strip running across the top of the cabinets for a more lavish effect. The kitchen really caters to what is important in the homeowners’ lives — it’s filled with elaborate detailing,

yet is still very comfortable and conducive to entertaining and working from home. It’s truly a multifunctional room. “I didn’t want to give them a kitchen you’d see anywhere. A lot of careful thought and planning went into the design.”

Janeiro took great care in ensuring the architectural elements were just right. “I talked to them a lot about these details, including the flooring choices, floor staining, pillars, millwork and ceiling design, which anchor the overall space. You can change your furniture, area rugs and other accessories, but those integral elements must be long-lasting and will serve as the foundation for the home,” she says. For example, the two-storey picture window overlooking the fully landscaped backyard was central to the flow of the living room and was enhanced with stunning drapery. This project is the epitome of what Janeiro calls “liveable luxury” — it’s a brilliant mix of modern and traditional elegance. “The eye flows and transitions from one area to another seamlessly. And we were able to capture classic details but not in a way that would date the home quickly,” she explains. The redesign was a success — it radiates the warmth and personality of the family that resides within it, and still has a luxe feel. “It exudes elegance and simplicity. It was a really great project that we were proud to work on!”

THE MARKET

We are excited to announce that we have moved. Come check out our new showroom! Please book your appointment today!

Chateau Window & Door Systems

170 Tycos Drive, North York chateauwindows.com 416-783-3916

Rome Collection: Design your backyard or cottage patio for your maximum outdoor enjoyment. You don’t have to sacrifice comfort for a striking, modern design. Visit our showroom in Richmond Hill to shop today. Don’t forget: We deliver to cottage country.

GENERAL PRODUCTS INC. 160 East Beaver Creek Road, Richmond Hill gppatio.com 905-709-1162

cordierite stone floor, designed specifically for

Toscana Counter: Comes with a high-grade cordierite stone floor, designed specifically for this type of oven. These floors heat up much quicker than traditional firebrick backing stones. More heat retention = less wood. At La Piazza Wood Ovens, we take pride and passion to another level!

LA PIAZZA

lapiazzawoodovens.com 1-877-757-2267

Hunter Douglas: Control the light and privacy in your home by layering your windows with beautiful and functional window coverings. We have recently had some requests for window coverings that can go on tilt and turn windows. The answer is yes, we can help!

VILLAGE PAINT & WALLPAPER 4949 Dundas Street West, Etobicoke, 416-231-2831 villagepaintwindowcoverings.ca

Liberta: The collection boasts a contemporary European style with the crisp line, plush cushioning, adjustable headrests and armrests for ultimate comfort, making it perfect for the next movie night. Top grain leather sectional. Made in Italy!

Luna Dining Table: Utterly striking in style and graceful in presentation, the Luna dining table lends marvelous allure wherever it is placed. Features a white ceramic top. Made in Italy!

DECORIUM

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

CREATE DISTINCTION.

Turn every window and door into a design opportunity with dramatic sizes, dynamic shapes, unlimited colors and exotic woods.

2354 Wyecroft Rd., Unit 23, Oakville 905.847.2071 cheney.ca

Explore the possibilities at andersenwindows.com “Andersen” and all other marks where denoted are trademarks of Andersen Corporation. ©2020 Andersen Corporation. All rights reserved. MS2008_0094

2113 Dundas Street West, Toronto 416.534.4593 dundaswoodwindows.ca

15 Robert Dollar Dr, Bracebridge 705.645.3057 muskokawindowanddoor.ca

Wood/Aluminum: Introducing a wide and innovative range of top-quality wood/ aluminum windows and doors to Ontario’s more discerning architects, builders and homeowners who are seeking the ultimate in performance, aesthetic appeal, environmental awareness and sheer luxury at realistic prices.

EUROSTAR WINDOWS

55 Administration Road, Unit 22-24, Concord eurostarwindows.ca, 416-633-5921

( TOP ) Inception: This modern geometric design was inspired by Architectural Drawings. Made with the finest hand-spun wool and natural silk.

( BOTTOM ) Industrial Age: This magnificent and complicated design was inspired by the tools and machineries of the Industrial revolution. Made with the finest hand-spun wool and natural silk.

WEAVERS ART

1400 Castlefield Avenue, Toronto weaversart.com, 416-929-7929

The New Z10: With a touch of a button, prepare authentic and trendy coffee drinks such as espresso, latte macchiato and flat white. Say hello to your personal barista. Coffee pleasure — freshly ground, not capsuled. Jura is the leader in producing super-automatic specialty coffee machines.

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

The Triumph Coffee Table: Enhance your home decor with our creatively designed textured brown coffee table. Strong durability, high-impact solid-wood top with a geometrical black iron base. Measures 40” in diameter and 16” high. Made in British Columbia by Mercana, a leading North American brand. Come see at the Hide House, the largest leather fashion and leather furniture store in Canada. You now get a 10% discount on all Canadian-made leather furniture. Save hundreds of dollars. Special ends August 31, 2022. It’s Worth The Drive To Acton!

HIDE HOUSE

49 Eastern Avenue, Acton, hidehouse.ca 1-877-453-2843

van de Geyn Editor-in-Chief

MADE IN THE SHADE

ECLIPS and moon together with Eclips! These stellar spectacles cultivate the spectacular and create a transparent halo recalling the beauty of an eclipse.

(top): Bring the sun

These stellar spectacles cultivate (bottom):

BOCCA CHESS

Feminine and playful, these shades turn perception upside down and revisit the elegance of the chessboard.

perception upside

NIGHT (middle): Respond to the allure of the night in broad daylight. These extreme wraparounds are highlighted by their broad arms shaped like a headband. We love the catwalkstyle mask with feminine sensuality.

CLONE: These gorgeous shades practice white magic, doubling the glass and bevel work around the rim. Discover them in an explosion of exclusive colours and materials.

SPLIT (below):

A true fashion statement, this model reveals a visual game full of mischief in a range of original colours. Available in two very assertive shapes, these perfectly unexpected sunglasses are made for those who are not afraid to let the light and colour in!

FACE À FACE launched in 1995 and for nearly 30 years, it’s been a mainstay in the world of cool, contemporary eyewear. The brand, founded in France by Pascal Jaulent, Nadine Roth and Alyson Magee, has o ces around the world, from Denmark to Paris to San Francisco. Celebrating Parisian culture (think architecture, modern art, fashion and design), FACE À FACE’s unique, funky collections — using incredible combinations of shapes, colours and materials — continue to attract luxury eyewear lovers all over the world. Available at dozens of opticians and luxury eyewear shops across Ontario and the Greater Toronto Area, learn more about the brand at faceaface-paris.com.

@faceaface_paris @faceafaceparis

’Tis the season to protect your peepers and we can’t get enough of these designer frames. Our resident glasses lover, Lisa van de Geyn, shares her favourite sunglasses from FACE À FACE’s Spring/ Summer 2022 collection.

Lisa

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