LUXE MAGAZINE CANADA Winter 2019-2020

WINTER 2020

L U X U R Y. L I V I N G . D E F I N E D .

HANIA KUZBARI MEET THIS GLOBALLY-INSPIRED, HANDMADE FINE JEWELLERY DESIGNER

Chic Winter

ANNA OLSON MAKE ONE OF HER SHOWSTOPPING CENTREPIECE CAKES

Style

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BARBARA BARRY THE INTERIOR DESIGNER EXTRAORDINAIRE SHOWS US HER LATEST PIECES

HOLIDAY GIFTS FOR EVERYONE ON YOUR LIST, WINES TO GIVE, AND KEEP, THE VIEW FROM THE TOP IN ASPEN, WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU BUY A DNA TEST KIT

WINTER 2020

$6.50

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“

My skin, glowing with youth.”

It’s all about you.

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CLARINS + The Clarins art of formulation: offering you the best of science and nature based on our unique knowledge of how to extract the most powerful actives from each plant.

New Rose Radiance Cream combines 7 plant extracts to revive skin’s youth and radiance.

INGREDIENTS Three plant actives for a unique glow. A formula enriched with hibiscus flower acids to gently exfoliate and smooth skin. Organic harungana replenishes and next-generation pearls instantly illuminate.

NEW

Rose Radiance Cream Super Restorative Smooth. Replenish. Illuminate.

Replenishing skin care with the latest Clarins innovation: a combination of active plant ingredients that boost your skin’s youthful radiance.

After 1 month: 81% of women have smoother skin, 70% find it replenished and 87% more radiant.*

TEXTURE A sublime texture. Rose Radiance Cream’s fresh, easily-absorbed gel texture and delicate scent of natural rose envelops skin in comfort and leaves it immediately more luminous.

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CLARINS.COM *Satisfaction test, 105 women, 28 days

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Aqua. Dining table, design Fabrice Berrux.

Snow. Sideboard, design Erwan Péron.

Céleste. Armchair, design Cédric Ragot.

Manufactured in Europe.

TORONTO - BROSSARD - LAVAL - MONTREAL

In-store interior design & 3D visualization services.*

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French Art de Vivre

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Date: November 18, 2019

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Photo Michel Gibert, for advertising purposes only. Special thanks: molodesign.com / www.marc-lepilleur.com. *Conditions apply, contact store for details.

CONTENTS

48

WINTER 2020

IN EVERY ISSUE DEPARTMENTS 06

LETTERS

13

THE GOODS

62

WINE

68

ON STAGE

70

SOCIALITE

72

COMMENT

Everything evergreen + Holiday Gifts Wines to give, and keep Live performances and events LUXE one year anniversary + Great Jewellery Heist When it’s not the most wonderful time of the year

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53 24

14 56 FEATURES 24 28

34 36

42

DÉCOR

BARBARA BARRY Modern elegance and new designs

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THE DESIGNERS Home décor gifts from Colin McAllister + Justin Ryan

Clarins My Blend at The Ritz Carlton Toronto

DNA TEST KITS

ESCAPE

Ski country two ways: Aspen + Telluride

FOOD 56

RECIPES

Anna Olson’s celebratory centrepiece cakes

LIVING SPA DAY

TRAVEL

CULTURE 66

ARTIST PROFILE Lori Mirabelli

What to know before you buy

STYLE

DESIGNER PROFILE Hania Kuzbari

ON THE COVER: Jewellery by Hania Kuzbari. Photography and art direction by Ryan Houssari.

See the story on page 42.

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EDITOR’S LETTER

IN THE SPIRIT AT THIS TIME of year, it’s easy to get swept into the rapid pace of

holiday planning and parties and miss some of the spirit that makes this season special.

When I was very young, among the many things I looked forward to at Christmastime was the annual reading of Twas the Night Before

Christmas. I was always with my nose in a book, and the lyrical cadence of this holiday classic captured my imagination every time. I think it began with being tasked to memorize the poem in elementary school, and I can still recount many of those stanzas… it gets a bit hazy around: Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash.

I had my own hardcover copy of the Clement Clarke Moore poem, with glorious full colour illustrations, and it would be read (aloud) each Christmas Eve by the glow of the tree lights.

As I grew older I discovered Charles Dickens by way of A Tale of Two Cities and Great Expectations; and thanks to a father who loved classic black and white movies, A Christmas Carol via the 1951 film adaptation.

Watching that film together on Christmas Eve quickly became a new tradition we shared together. Sure, there are other, newer versions of the tale—there were big-budget Hollywood revamps from time to time (the 1988 version called Scrooged with Bill Murray is a modern retelling)—but Alastair Sim in black and white is my Scrooge of choice.

It’s these tiny rituals that counted together make our holiday traditions, memories and tales to share another year. We won’t remember all the minutia that kept us busy, kept us frantic, and kept us from truly enjoying the holiday season.

This year, just like every other, I’ll set up my wrapping supplies on the coffee table in the living room, turn on the television and watch Ebenezer discover his previously dormant generosity of spirit, as he has on every other Christmas Eve before.

Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night.

HOLLY CRAWFORD EDITOR-IN-CHIEF holly@luxemagcanada.com 6

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INTERIOR | EXTERIOR | KITCHENS | BATHROOMS | FULL HOME ARCHITECTURE | DESIGN

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IN LOOKING BACK AT 2019, many words come to mind: growth, motivation, success and challenges. It has been a year not only of growth and success but also of challenges we were able to overcome.

I hope we were able to inspire you with our articles and fabulous photographs and also motivate you to go the extra mile in all aspects of your life. I hope we created a reason for you to look forward to receiving each and every issue.

As I think of 2020, I can’t help feeling the excitement a new year brings; be it at work or at home. It feels like a new beginning, a time when the slate is wiped clean and you can try it all over again! This time, hopefully with another year of wisdom.

We’re excited about all of the enticing articles we are planning to share with you.

Exciting places we want you to explore, new items to try and most of all, our ideas of what a luxury lifestyle entails.

I encourage you to enjoy all this joyous season has to offer and take a little R&R with a copy of LUXE! Looking forward to the new year ahead with you.

Happy Holidays from all of us at LUXE!

ORIANA MANTELLO PUBLISHER PHOTO BY LISA CRISPO

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

PUBLISHER’S LETTER

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SPIRITED. SOULFUL. UNMISTAKABLY ST. KITTS. The splendor of St. Kitts is closer than you think. Now you can venture nonstop from Toronto with Air Canada, to discover a place so tranquil your laughter carries all the way down a golden-sand beach by a warm, tropical breeze. Home to historic sugar plantations, a majestic cloud-piercing volcano, and even a fortress of past civilizations. Visit today and nourish your soul with the spirit of St. Kitts.

For additional flight info visit luxestkitts.com

WEEKLY NONSTOP FLIGHTS Flight routes and duration are subject to change without notice.

CONTRIBUTORS Interior designers, style commentators, celebrity interviewers and lifestyle gurus COLIN MCALLISTER and JUSTIN RYAN split their time between Toronto, Haliburton and Glasgow. You may know them as hosts of Cabin Pressure (Cottage Life) judges on Game of Homes (W Network and Discovery Family) or experts on Cityline (City TV). Their eponymous decor line C+J Home is available at Homesense and Marshalls. Catch their latest program Great Canadian Cottages on Cottage Life.

L U X U R Y. L I V I N G . D E F I N E D. VOLUME 2, ISSUE 4. WINTER 2020

Publisher

ORIANA MANTELLO Editor-in-Chief

HOLLY CRAWFORD Art Director

JASON KANG Editorial Assistant

MADELINE CORNACCHIA Contributing Writers CHRIS CLAY, ANNE T. DONAHUE, ANDREA KARR, KARL LOHNES, COLIN MCALLISTER, MICHAEL PINKUS, JUSTIN RYAN, SHERRY SMITHER Contributing Photographers LARRY ARNAL, LISA CRISPO, NICK IWANYSHYN

ANNE T. DONAHUE is a writer and person from Cambridge, Ontario. Her first book, Nobody Cares, was published September 2018 with ECW. JASON KANG is passionate about editorial design and is thrilled to be art director at LUXE Magazine. His work has been featured in Canadian House & Home, Chatelaine and Flare magazine. Jason has led photo shoots all over the world, including Buenos Aires, Cape Town, Copenhagen, New York, Paris and Tel Aviv.

Additional Contributors TARA ASHLEY, ANDREA CIABATONNI, ANGELA CIABATONNI, KATARINA MARINIC, NICOLE FOR THE BEAUTY TEAM

O MEDIA GROUP President

ORIANA MANTELLO MICHAEL PINKUS has a love affair with wine that goes back more than 20 years. He is a multi-awardwinning journalist, past president of the Wine Writers’ Circle of Canada and a national and international wine judge. His articles have appeared in numerous national and international magazines and he is the founder and sole contributor to MichaelPinkusWineReview.com (formerly OntarioWineReview.com).

Director of Sales CHRISTINA BONO

Account Manager ASHLEEN HUTCHINSON

Accountant ARNINI STELLATO, LLP

CONTACT US MAIL

LUXE Magazine, 242 Applewood Crescent, Suite 5, Concord, Ontario L4K 4E5

ANDREA KARR is a Toronto-based writer with a passion for style, travel and mental health. She has a master’s degree in Literatures of Modernity from Ryerson University and always has a book in hand.

KARL LOHNES Design and décor expert Karl Lohnes decorates houses, writes for newspapers and magazines and appears on television chatting about home trends.

He regularly dishes décor and lifestyle advice on Thursday’s Global News Morning Montreal and is the Saturday homes columnist for The Montreal Gazette and Toronto Sun newspapers. Shown here with long-time friend Barbara Barry.

EMAIL

info@luxemagcanada.com PHONE

905.780.2639 LUXEMAGCANADA.COM LUXE Magazine is published quarterly and delivered to select homes in the GTA. For subscription inquiries email: info@luxemagcanada.com The reproduction of written material, illustration or photographs from this magazine is prohibited.

Although precaution has be taken to ensure the information contained in LUXE Magazine is accurate, it is understood that the magazine cannot be held responsible for errors or omissions that may occur.

The articles in this magazine are the exclusive responsibility of the authors.

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Set in the beauty and allure of Thornhill, Wigston Green is a collection of 17 homes on 60’ and 80’ lots. Modern touches & award-winning craftsmanship come together to create an exclusive enclave of stunning estate homes.

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Only 3 lots remain.

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407 ETR BATHURST ST

1.877.702.7870

Reserve your private appointment today.

View more Remington projects at remingtongroupinc.com

FLAMINGO RD

Goods Bubble, an iconic model in the Roche Bobois collection, represents the perfect balance between design, innovation and function. Manufactured by hand, design by Sacha Lakic; rochebobois.com for details.

EVERGREEN LUSH, DEEP GREENS ARE ADDING DRAMA TO DÉCOR AND FASHION THIS SEASON. Omega Ladies Speedmaster 38mm with diamonds, $11,600; available at Royal De Versailles, European Jewellery Yorkdale and Berani Jewellery, Bayview Village; omegawatches.com

From the “Bee Chic” collection by Birks, emerald and silver stud earrings, $395 and emerald and silver pendant, $225; birks.com

If you missed the celery juice craze, you’re just in time for this green veggie’s moment as a skincare superstar. This celery-powered moisturizer from Volition tackles oil and uneven skin texture with celery, hyaluronic acid and peptides. $74/50mL; available at Sephora and volitionbeauty.com Magon Wall King Bed from the Nina Magon Collection, newly launched in Canada. Shown in emerald green velvet, available at Zilli Home Interiors, $3,399; zillihome.com

Enjoy the slender silhouette of a trench with all the functionality of a winter coat. Hood lined with ethically sourced coyote fur, insulated with Canadian white duck down. Shown here in “Fatigue,” available at Nobis, $1,395; nobis.com

From the ten shades selected by Benjamin Moore to complement their 2020 Colour of The Year are two soft greens: Crystalline (AF-485) and Cushing Green (HC-125); benjaminmoore.com

From the Happy 2020 Holiday Collection, 5 Couleurs Eye Palette by Dior in “007,” $74, available at The Bay and dior.com

From Canadian footwear designer Abel Munoz, we are smitten with his “Kelly” pump in emerald suede. Made in Italy with a leather lining and sole, the Kelly is one of the designer’s signature styles, with updated colours and materials each season. $695; abelmunoz.com

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THE GOODS

GIFT GUIDE

for the Foodie

From CXBO, a classic seasonal collection of chocolates, inspired by the Lawren Harris painting “Icebergs, Davis Strait.” Various inty a o rs, 115g/$35; cxbo.ca

ENTERTAINING ACCESSORIES AND GOURMET GADGETS FOR THE FOOD AND DRINK CONNOISSEUR ON YOUR LIST.

Handcrafted champagne saucers perfect for New Year’s Eve festivities. Tall, braided stems and soft pink hue add drama to a timeless piece.

Available at Cocktail Emporium, $150 set of two, cocktailemporium.com

e or d s first sparkling water maker designed with a complete stainless steel enclosure. Just push the lever until it buzzes, then release it and unscrew the bottle from the machine.

Aarke Carbonator II Water Maker Machine, available at The Bay, $300; thebay.com

Limited Edition Glitter Spreads by Wildly Delicious, made with edible itter. easona a o rs rist as erry, ranberry, stra berry and “Mimosa” (with Champagne) will make pastries sparkly and sweet.

Available at Wildly Delicious Fine Foods in the Distillery District, $9 each, ca.wildlydelicious.com

Luxe up your bar with gold tools. The Collapsible Straw and Brush in Tube ($15) for on the go, the Brass Mister ($29) for a spritz o a o r in o iday party cocktails and the double-hinged 24K Gold Plated Corkscrew ($25) to serve wine with effortless class. Available at Cocktail Emporium, cocktailemporium.com

PHOTO BY MIKE TJIOE (CXBO CHOCOLATE)

From the Dolce & Gabbana x Smeg Collection, this stunning toaster is inspired by traditional Sicilian handicraft and adorned in the same style as terracotta vases from the region. Available at The Bay, $799; thebay.com

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GIFT GUIDE for the High-minded SOPHISTICATED ACCESSORIES FOR A BLISSED-OUT HOLIDAY.

A sleek brass grinder by 48North t at sea ess y fits in a on st t e treasures and trinkets on your dresser.

Canadian-made and designed in Toronto. F8 Liv Grinder, $120, ca.tokyosmoke.com

Go bold and bright with this luxurious porcelain Versace ashtray that will add a touch of high art to the home. Versace Medusa Rhapsody Ashtray by Rosenthal, $455, available at William Ashley, williamashley.com

The leather (or vegan leather) Rogue Paq Full Ritual Gift Set features a Vianel lighter in lizard or snakeskin, stainless steel gold-toned hemostat clip, packing tool and trimming scissors, two matchbooks, three glass storage vials and a pencil for labelling. Also includes a complimentary monogram and gift with purchase. $349 USD, available exclusively at roguepaq.com

A slender and fashionable too t at fits neat y into a pocket for rolling on the go, or keep it proudly on display in the home—it won’t look out of place.

Calla Multi Tool, available at Tokyo Smoke, $30, ca.tokyosmoke.com PHOTO BY VALERIA MYRONENKO (CALLA MULTI TOOL)

PHOTO BY MIKE TJIOE (CXBO CHOCOLATE)

THE GOODS

Bespoke Table Top Lighter + Stash Jar Edie Parker brings its signature quirk to the high-end ‘cannasseur’ with a line of chic acrylic cannabis accessories. This table top lighter evokes 1960s-era sophistication and comes tucked into its own ashtray. Pair it with the Bespoke Medium Stash Jar and monogram the two for a personalized set. Lighter $650 USD, Stash Jar $275 USD, edieparkerflower.com

Make a stocking-stuffer statement with the world’s first o d ro in papers. Handcrafted with edible gold and hemp blend paper, even the ashes will be left glittering gold.

Shine Papers, $59.99, shinerollingpapers.com WINTER 2020 LUXE MAGAZINE CANADA 15

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THE GOODS

GIFT GUIDE

for the Style Lover

FASHION, FRAGRANCE AND COSMETICS TO IMPRESS THE STYLISTAS ON YOUR LIST.

Signature paint-brush stripe printed scarf in 90 per cent modal and ten per cent cashmere for a luxurious feel.

Unisex, $295, available at Nobis; nobis.com

Charlotte Tilbury’s The Gift of Magic Skin set includes portable sizes of the worldfamous moisturizer Charlotte’s Magic Cream and Magic Night Cream, plus a full size of the Magic Eye Rescue, $95; charlottetilbury.com/ca

Longines Conquest Classic ladies watch, $1,650; available at Birks; longines.com

Longines Master Collection mens watch, $2,800; available at Birks; longines.com

Jimmy Choo Urban Hero Eau de Parfum features top notes of lemon caviar and black pepper, heart notes of rosewood and vetiver and base notes of grey amber and leather accord, $115/100mL, available at Hudson’s Bay and Shoppers Drug Mart.

Lavish lips with the most gorgeous ethereal s ine, eat rin fi e top-selling shades, and one new limitededition shade. Stila Ethereal Elements Beauty Boss Lip Gloss Set, $78; available at shoppersdrugmart.ca/ beauty and stila.ca

An elevated coat in textured wool with a sleek e et o ar. esterfie d e et o ar oo Blend Coat by Christopher Bates, $1082; available at Nordstrom; shop.nordstrom.com

Be Radiant gift set from Dermalogica includes a brightening and fir in d o t ree Rapid Reveal Peels (3 mL) and BioLumin-C Serum (30 mL), $120; dermalogica.ca

Perfectly portable, the Mugler Perfuming Brush reinvents the fragrance ritual by taking inspiration from a rapid and precise make-up application technique. With a light pressure, the Perfuming Brush releases just the right amount of perfumed gel to apply to pulse points, $39 each, available at Hudson’s Bay, Shoppers Drug Mart.

Dark blue navy bucket bag on crocodile stamped leather.

Handle and straps in natural brown leather, $395; oriettapolo.com

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VERSATILE TOTE This tote from Longchamps is roomy enough to arry on t e i t, and ood ookin enough to tote around the city all day.

“Roseau” by Longchamps in cognac, $1,515; ca.longchamp.com

THE GOODS

GIFT GUIDE

for the Travel Lover

FOR THE GLOBE-TROTTING, ADVENTURE-CHASING JETSETTERS ON YOUR HOLIDAY LIST, OUR MUST-HAVES FOR TRAVEL.

WATERPROOF CAMERA Sets a benchmark for combining image quality with rugged design. Dustproof, waterproof up to 15 metres and crushproof to 100 kilograms. Olympus TG-6, $530; getolympus.com for retailers.

LIGHTWEIGHT CARRY-ON This 22inch carry-on from Tumi is made of super sleek and durable aluminum, with four dual-spinning wheels for extra maneuverability.

Available in silver or black. Tumi 19 Degree Carry-on, $1,125; thebay.com

WIRELESS EARBUDS Industry-leading noise cancelling powered by Sony’s proprietary HD Noise Cancelling Processor QN1e and 24 hours of battery life. Sony WF-1000XM3, available in black or cream, $300; sony.ca for retailers.

CHIC FEDORA WITH SPF Crafted from Madagascar ra fia and tea stained or a rich tone, this fedora from Canadian favourite Tilley is rated UPF50+. “Charlie” fedora straw hat, $130 from Tilley; tilley.com

OVERSIZED SCARF The perfect scarf for travel looks great exploring a new city, and doubles as a wrap on a i y i t. is one from Tilley is soft and lightweight wool. Wool Blanket Scarf, $110 from Tilley; tilley.com

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Home

LAROSE GUYON, a brand infusing art, life and luxury into each timeless, handcrafted creation, is the creator of this statement-making chandelier.

Evoking the form and delicate construction of traditional Southeast Asian sky lanterns, “Céleste” provokes the imagination with its a earan e as a oatin so r e o i t. One hundred jeweled chains gracefully envelop the suspended lamp’s soft interior glow, creating a shimmering inverted dome. Founded in 2014 as a fusion of artistic creativity between Audrée L. Larose and Félix Guyon, the company designs and manufactures original lighting fi t res and o e rnis in s, a and ra ted by local Quebec artisans. Prices from $11,200; laroseguyon.com

Crushing on this chandelier

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HOME

WE’RE BLUSHING

BENJAMIN MOORE recently revealed its annual Colour of the Year, and for 2020 it’s a soft hue of blush pink dubbed First Light (2102-70).

Andrea Magno, Benjamin Moore Director of Colour Marketing and Development said, “We selected First Light as our Colour of the Year 2020 to represent a new dawn of idealism, desi n and i in . irst i t re e ts a ne definition o t e o e a s i t in mindset from the material to satisfying the core needs in life: community, o ort, se rity, se e ression, authenticity and ultimately, optimism.” benjaminmoore.com/en-ca

A DARK AND DRAMATIC SURFACE

WITH KITCHENS and bathrooms setting a darker tone once again, Caesarstone launches two new deep coloured hues for 2020. Shown here, “Black Tempal” is a new development with soft mineral deposits creating a marbled veil across the slab, in ontrast to its b a k ar oa base. e ro finis and o e o osition are layered, capturing warm granular highlights just as real stone would, all while maintaining the easy care Caesarstone surfaces are known for. caesarstone.ca

MEREDITH HERON RUG COLLECTION CANADIAN INTERIOR DESIGNER Meredith Heron launched her sumptuous new collection of hand-made rugs in Toronto recently.

She has taken on not just creative control of the new collection, but control of the manufacturing as well to ensure the product bearing her na e is e a t y at s e ants it to be. n estin in oo s, yarns and colour formulas, Heron has brought to life her vision in hand-made, hand-knotted rugs made of New Zealand wool and bamboo-derived is ose. e do i e r is and knotted and ade in ndia o mill-spun New Zealand wood and viscose, available from $3,883; meredithheroncollection.com 20

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by Rosehaven Homes

“

Our goal was to take the experience of waking up in a beautiful European hotel and offer it to the discerning buyer in an understated yet overtly elegant condominium design.

”

“

From grand structured and spacious floor plan layouts to the very best of luxurious finishes, these interior spaces have the same look and feel as that found in some of the finest homes in the country.

– Richard Wengle, Master Architect

”

– Ferris Rafauli, Interior Design

Inspired by the timeless elegance of Paris, The Randall brings classic Beaux Arts architecture to a picture-perfect setting in the heart of South East Oakville.

Move into one of the few remaining luxury residences in this international multi-award-winning address to experience the epitome of sophistication.

FEW LUXURY RESIDENCES REMAIN FROM $2.45 MILLION | UP TO 3,200 SQ.FT.

New Presentation Centre • 137 Trafalgar Rd. Oakville Saturday to Wednesday 11am - 4pm or by appointment

TheRandallResidences.ca

LuxuryLiving@TheRandallResidences.com • 905.849.1033

In collaboration with...

REPRESENTED BY

MASTER ARCHITECT

INTERIOR DESIGN

HEALTH CLUB

RESTAURANT

CONCIERGE & SECURITY

ENHANCED CONCIERGE SERVICE

Brokers protected. Prices and specifications subject to change without notice. E. & O.E.

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NOBILITY IS A STATE OF MIND For those who appreciate the better things in life value, craftsmanship, dedication and excellence.

Boss Leather has introduced our new Nobility line which allows our client to look and feel regal.

Boss Leather custom made furniture built by skilled artisans at the very best prices.

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FLAGSHIP GALLERY LOCATION: 4 Kincort Street, Toronto, ON. M6M 3E1 ORIGINAL LOCATION: In the Hills of Caledon 18 King Street East Upper level of Royal Courtyards • L7E 1E8 416-410-BOSS (2677) • 1-855-210-2677 info@bossleather.ca canadasbossleatherfurniture.com

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HOME

ARBARA ARRY

WE CHAT WITH THE WOMAN WHO HELPED DEFINE MODERN LUXURY

by KARL LOHNES

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THE WORLD OF INTERIOR DESIGN, the name Barbara Barry is synonymous with

the

designer’s

own

aesthetic:

elegant, feminine, yet with a distinct modernity. Since launching her design firm in Los Angeles in 1985, Barry’s interior design and product lines have had huge influence internationally. Her work is refined and luxurious, but Barry’s biggest muse is nature, and the inspiration she gets from travel. The California-based designer (and plein air artist) has, in fact, travelled extensively in Canada. “I love the majestic landscapes in the Rockies and the powerful edge of the earth in Newfoundland,” she says.

Always, her sketchpad, watercolours or camera are never more than a hand’s reach, so she can capture the inspiration she perceives in the natural world.

Full disclosure: Barbara and I have been kindred spirits in design since we met 25 years ago. On a recent visit to Toronto, we spent a day together exploring the city’s west end. As she says, “time is a luxury,” and our time together was just that: precious, because having this tour de force all to myself for a day is a rarity, but also because Barbara elevates every day occurrences to the level of luxury. We appreciated classic Toronto architecture, shopped for small, simple homemade items, and ate in cafés that served plain, authentic good food. As friends, we rarely discuss business, but on this day, as per usual, our conversation veered to our mutual passion for design. I asked Barbara to define luxury and timeless—words so often used to describe my friend and her work.

You are a top designer of luxury products and interiors. How has the definition of luxury changed since you started your career?

BB: My definition of luxury has changed over the years. I don’t—and I don’t think many others—want to live as formally as we once did.

Time, comfort and health are how we define luxury today and I want to design interiors and products that support that awareness. Whether it’s relaxing after a day of skiing in an Austrian chalet with rough wood

Barbara Barry’s extension of her popular rugs for Kravet, Tonal Textures III collection.

walls but luxurious beds; or slipping into a wooden canoe that glides OPPOSITE PAGE, TOP LEFT The new Hana Lounge Chair

by Barbara Barry at McGuire Furniture.

TOP RIGHT Barry in her studio water colouring concepts for her Lumen Collection for Atelier Swarovski Home.

BOTTOM OF PAGE Rich celadon, ivory and walnut are the themes that unify this living room. The cool colours pull from the silvery blues of the bay just outside, while a large Tibetan rug was designed to anchor the furniture groupings.

LEFT Barbara Barry’s Bedroom, Beverly Hills.

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“The master bedroom is really the most special place in the whole house, it frames the expansive and ever-changing view like a moving piece of art. The large Monterey Pine is like a Japanese sculpture and creates a dimension to the wide open beyond.” Barbara Barry

Barbara Barry painting in Newfoundland.

seamlessly on a clear lake, I want the time to take in the

wisely. One of the new fabric collections I’m working on is

experience viscerally. Luxuries to me are the things I use

called Barbara Barry Home and is a diffusion line of better-

every day: crisply ironed linens, a freshly laundered bed

priced fabrics from Kravet, due in the Kravet showrooms

and the time to walk in nature in a lightweight down

in Spring 2020.

jacket and cashmere scarf, and with my dog, and to take in the world around me.

Where do you see your design focus directed in the future: product, interiors, branding/marketing, online?

Your X-back dining chair introduced in the 1990s is one of

BB: I love design in all its aspects and I see myself

the best-selling items you’ve designed. Why do you think it

continuing to design in all arenas, but what I really love to

sells so well?

do is to help companies. Help them with their strategies,

BB: I think the Oval X-Back Chair came out at a time when

their message and help them streamline their products.

there was either fancy traditionalism or cold modernism,

With so much choice in the world I believe companies

and it spoke to that “sweet spot” in the middle. It is a

need to have a clear message about what it is they offer to

pared down and more generously scaled French bergère,

aid the consumer. And that, too, is design.

albeit through my American filter, which is traditionally the piece that finishes out a living room. It has generous

Your work is often described as timeless. What elements

proportions (think of a girl with hips) and shapely legs. It

make a room’s design timeless?

appeals to both sexes!

BB: Timeless design is quite simply things you don’t tire of.

It’s a feeling or mood that comes from layering elemental

Barry often concepts on trays to pull together ideas for product and interior schemes.

It does, absolutely. The X-back became quite iconic. What

forms together. If you look at my work it doesn’t shout at

can fans of your work look forward to seeing in the future?

you but, hopefully, holds you in quiet ways with subtle

BB: I am on a roll right now and having the best time. 2020

colour and tonal textures that support you and serve as

will be a big year of new fabric collections, new furniture

a respite from the busy world that we all tire of! Nature

for McGuire and for Baker and lots of accessories.

is timeless and uncontrolled, and I hope my work is perceived that way, too.

Most of what you design is priced for the higher end market.

What advice would you give to achieving liveable luxury for individuals on a stricter budget?

BB: Live with less and buy better. Something well-made and beautiful commands quite a lot of attention. Choose

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Brazilian masters like Sergio Rodrigues were the inspiration for the essence of the pieces including the dining chairs in this space.

This interior inspired Barbara’s newest collection for McGuire Furniture available in Spring 2020; mcguirefurniture.com

Lumen Collection for Atelier Swarovski Home; atelierswarovski.com

The Joinery Bench and Hana Ottoman

by Barbara Barry at McGuire Furniture.

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THE HIT LIST

THE DESIGNERS

TOP DÉCOR OBJECTS TO ADD TO YOUR SPACE THIS CHILLY SEASON—OR GIFT, TO YOUR FAVOURITE DESIGN LOVER— ACCORDING TO OUR OWN DESIGNER SUPER DUO COLIN + JUSTIN.

by COLIN MCALLISTER + JUSTIN RYAN

WRAP UP WELL

GG and Check Throw Blanket from Gucci; gucci.com Equally at home in the city or in the country, this softly tactile wool blanket offers two distinctly different aesthetics. First up, a classic “GG” patterned side to sooth your metropolitan predilections, and a green checked face, perfectly assignable to

SIGHT & SCENT

Palo Santo 14 Grey Candle by Le Labo at

your lake home or cabin in the woods. Available in three colour combinations, the wool weave is super delicate whilst the textural edge detail is, one might say, a fringe benefit…

Nordstrom; shop.nordstrom.com

Made from unadulterated soy wax and featuring a must-have cotton wick, this waxy olfactory will suffuse your environment with a clean fragrance that’s both woody and uplifting. Palo Santo, traditionally, is used for ritual “smudging” to welcome creativity, love and good fortune, and the scent has also been shown to reduce stress and anxiety, whilst enhancing clarity and concentration.

In short, this candle should bring the real good, feel good factor, wherever you burn it, this winter.

SOUND ADVICE

Pro-ject ‘The Classic’ Turntable from Pro-ject; project-audio.ca There’s no better way to warm your respite than with the sounds of vinyl, especially when played on a classic beauty such as this.

Fusing retrospective turntable design from the 1950s and 1960s with cutting edge, modern technology, this robust player delivers every time, to make even your most crass record sound achingly cool. The wooden chassis is available in three matte finishes: Walnut, Rosenut or Eucalyptus—to tone, if needs be, with your cottage timbers.

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A must-have for the gregarious traveller, and an essential accessory for the smartest bar, Wine Master is the trusted companion for professional sommeliers and amateur gourmets alike. Loaded with features such as an extra-long corkscrew (with five coils to prevent cork breakage) and a unique tool that offers a two-step lever for uncorking and bottle opening.

The oh-so-cool integrated pocket knife boasts a wavy-edged foil cutter and a large locking blade, features that make it ideal for cheese (or indeed

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Tune in, from the city, to your office, lake home or cabin (or indeed vice versa) with a stunning webcam that offers 1080p HD live streaming, motion and sound monitoring, person detection (with thumbnail image notifications) and two-way audio to talk and listen to those at home or away. Conspired in sexy black and brushed copper, or super fresh white and champagne gold, spying was seldom so covert or chic.

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Part of L’Objet’s stunning range of classic games (that include backgammon, dominoes and chess) the humble Tic Tac Toe has been reborn as an amazing coffee table or desk accessory courtesy of its natural shell blocks that occupy a beautiful brass base. All in all, it’s a stunning Art Deco-inspired decorative item that would make a great conversation piece at home or in the office. And better still? You can play with it, old school style. r e aco

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Arne Jacobsen’s compellingly simple Weather Station is inspired by the talented creative’s equally simple wall clock, which he mastered for Denmark’s National Bank in 1971. The design, therefore, is typically Jacobsen with a focus on pared back, uncomplicated beauty. The Weather Station consists of a barometer that provides an overview of air pressure (to predict if the weather will be stormy or calm) a hydrometer to indicate humidity, a thermometer to show the daily temperature and a wall clock to tell the time.

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drapery | blinds | carpet | upholstery | bedding | wallpaper 8481 Keele St., Concord, ON 905.660.7290

12967 Keele St., King City, ON 905.833.5464

www.mapledrapery.com

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WHAT BETTER gift this season than a unique experience that can be shared? Located in the heart of Yorkville, Kandl Artistique not only retails their own line of hand-poured candles in custom-blown glass (from $90 to $495 each) but is home to a candle laboratory. Here, just like in perfumeries of Europe, you can create your own custom scent, but for your own custom candle. Choose a base note, mid note and top note, with help from staff to create your perfect fragrance. Mix and hand-pour in a esse o yo r oi e, finis it a sto abe and enjoy a refreshment in the cafĂŠ while the candle sets. About 90 minutes, $95 per person, reservations required. kandl-artistique.com

Living Custom-blend candles

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LIVING

REFLECTIVE DESIGN

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tte for

Canadian Athletes THE NOW ICONIC Hudson’s Bay Red Mittens captured the hearts of anadians en t ey first a n ed for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games. Since then the mittens have raised more than $32 million for the Canadian Olympic o ndation, e in at etes a ess the best resources to achieve their Olympic dreams. This year marks t e ten year anni ersary o t e ed ittens and a i ited edition version will be available online. The new Hudson’s Bay Red Mittens eat re oat ea an e yarns or a o y ee i e re ainin s er versatile and easy to pair and layer with a cold weather wardrobe.

The 2020 Red Mittens are $15 with $3.90 from each pair donated to support Canadian Olympic athletes; available at Hudson’s Bay locations and at thebay.com.

Folding smartphone

WE KNOW we should try to wear items that make us visible while outside after dark, but Canadian entrepreneur Monica Bellini came up with Noktillu to make it easier. Noktillu are ni e, ra ti a and easy to a y re e ti e desi ns yo an iron on to t e ot in yo a ready o n. o r a o rite a ket, r nnin ants, y in ersey, do o ar, yo r kids ba k a k or o ter ase. Nokti o es in a ide ran e o desi ns t at i e yo be o e ore isib e and ess nerab e i e en oyin a ti ities yo o e d rin o r on , s ort days o inter. noktillu.com

THE HIGHLY ANTICIPATED GALAXY FOLD WILL BE AVAILABLE STARTING DECEMBER 6, 2019 EXCLUSIVELY AT SAMSUNG EXPERIENCE STORES LOCATED AT CF SHERWAY GARDENS, CF TORONTO EATON CENTRE AND YORKDALE SHOPPING CENTRE, IN TORONTO. THE CATEGORY-DEFINING GALAXY FOLD REPRESENTS THE BIGGEST LEAP FORWARD IN SMARTPHONE DESIGN AND ENGINEERING SINCE THE FIRST SMARTPHONES LAUNCHED MORE THAN A DECADE AGO. WHEN CLOSED, YOU CAN ACCESS ALL OF YOUR APPS COMFORTABLY IN ONE HAND ON THE COVER DISPLAY. WHEN OPENED, YOU CAN EXPLORE NEW WAYS TO MULTITASK, WATCH VIDEOS, PLAY GAMES, AND MORE ON THE 7.3-INCH DISPLAY. THE GALAXY FOLD, AVAILABLE IN COSMOS BLACK, INTRODUCES A WHOLE NEW SMARTPHONE CATEGORY BUILT FOR THE FUTURE. BREAKTHROUGH MATERIALS AND A REVISED, SOPHISTICATED HINGING MECHANISM MAKE THE DEVICE FLEXIBLE AND HIGHLIGHT ITS ELEGANT DESIGN THAT DELIVERS A BOOK-LIKE FOLD. PRICING STARTS AT $2,600.

Remington Group hosts Toy Mountain event

THE REMINGTON GROUP i on e a ain ost s oy o ntain a ai n at t e ride o anada aro se in o nto n ark a , or a t ird onse ti e year. On e e ber , ario s o a or ani ations and o nity ro s i nite to donate a o ntain o toys to ess ort nate i dren and teena ers in t e or t e o idays. is year, oy o ntain as a oa o o e tin , toys a ross anada. nyone an donate to t e a se by brin in ne , n ra ed toys to t e i e e ent, or by dro in t e in oy o ntain donation bins be ore e e ber . in o ations are isted on t e ebsite toronto. t ne s. a toy o ntain . ro to . ., attendees an en oy i e skatin , ot o o ate and ree ea er ai s or t e first ests. e e ent i be broad ast i e on Ne s ro to . . downtownmarkham.ca.

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LIVING

The lounge at the Spa My Blend by Clarins at Ritz Carlton, Toronto.

Unique spa treatments for

SELF-CARE AND SELF-INDULGENCE

A

by HOLLY CRAWFORD VISIT TO a Ritz-Carlton hotel is

The Spa My Blend by Clarins concept is an

always a good thing… and this day’s

exclusive partnership between two brands; Clarins:

visit is made even sweeter because

a collection of iconic products with a pioneering

I’m on my way to the exclusive Spa

approach to beauty derived from plants and My Blend:

My Blend by Clarins.

a highly precise diagnostic tool that creates a unique

The elevator’s golden, mirror-finish doors open up

blend in real-time to provide a completely tailored

on the fifth floor. To one side is the cool blue of the

treatment. These products are not those that you find

hotel pool, on the other the muted tones of the spa.

at the department store beauty counter, they are a

Here, the menu features Clarins treatments for the

specialized line from Clarins, and can only be

face and body, as well as My Blend facial treatments,

purchased at the spa.

customised for each client. I’m here to learn all I can

Spa My Blend by Clarins offers a complete range

about My Blend by Clarins, and in the spa’s reception

of services performed by an expert Beauty Coach.

area you can see all of the products unique to the My

They incorporate original application techniques,

Blend line, and how they can be combined to create

custom formulas, expert advice and next-generation

completely custom skincare for today’s treatment, and

equipment. Originally launched in France, Spa My

to take home.

Blend by Clarins at The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto is the

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e o es treat ent roo at t e a y end by arins at it ar ton, oronto.

BELOW e y end by arins ran e in des boosters t at an be added to ea ste based on s e ifi skin are needs.

OPPOSITE PAGE e ran e o ay ssentia or as to i yo r s e ifi skin are booster i be added.

MORE NEW SPA OPTIONS IN THE CITY

only location in North America (the other is at Le Royal Monceau-Raffles in Paris).

Created by Dr. Olivier Courtin-Clarins, My Blend is a revolutionary concept that aims to meet the changing and individual needs of every skin type at any age through customized treatments. By taking into account a person’s lifestyle in addition to the skin’s age and type when developing formulas, My Blend goes well beyond “conventional” cosmetics. It offers 150 blends and 350 day-night combinations by adding “boosters” (concentrates of pure active ingredients) to 15 day and night creams.

Assisted by the expert Beauty Coach, clients begin the trademark My Blend Facial with an analysis and

GUERLAIN SPA anada s first er ain a o ened re ent y at Hote by ibrary o e tion addin t e brand s si nat re skin are to t e ry s a s ene in t e ity. it e e tiona ie s o er ookin ake Ontario, t e er ain a at Hote oronto o ers e si e treat ents er e ted by t e resti io s ren bea ty o se in ten e a ointed treat ent roo s. is o ation oins t e ranks o er ain s s as or d ide, a o ated in e e tiona a es. a or d ass s a o ers traditiona and inno ati e treat ents, as e as e erien es s e ifi a y reated in ar ony it t e at os ere, t re and a ti ities o ea o ation. hotelxtoronto.com/en/guerlain-spa

thorough Q&A in order to create the perfect custom skincare combination for the treatment. The prescription can include anywhere between eight “Essentials” like Oil Crisis Control or Early Age Alert; five “Specifics”, which cover cleansing products and exfoliators; and an additional seven “Boosters,” vials of antioxidants and vitamins that can be injected into any or all products.

Aside from product selection and customization, there are “machines” used in this facial. Most interesting, the Colourblend LED Light Mask looks like something from a sci-fi movie. Placed on the face (imagine a goalie mask) it glows bright red. The treatment uses changes in light frequency to stimulate collagen. The second bit of technology, the Wave Blend, incorporates pulsating movements of a hand-held device to help with lymphatic drainage while reducing puffiness, crow’s feet, and fine lines.

This 90-minute treatment aims to start you a path to correcting your skin’s specific concerns, all while cocooning you in comfort and relaxation. At each step of the facial—while a cream mask is tackling dryness, or that science fiction mask is lighting up your pores—the Beauty Coach is performing a head and neck massage, hand treatment, or foot massage.

After your treatment, when your skin is bright and glowing, be sure to take time to relax in the spa’s facilities.

There is a steam room, dry sauna, pool and Jacuzzi, and deep comfort chaise beds in a relaxation lounge that beckon for naptime.

HAMMAM SPA BY CELA in est s i oni Ha a a re ent y o ened t e doors to a s ra in ne o ation in ay ie i a e. ns ired by t e o ents ere bea ti be o es s irit a , Ha a a by a is a ni e y odern take on an ient e ness rit a s in a breat takin en iron ent t e , s are oot s a e eat res a s are oot stea roo , ri ate treat ent roo s, and a tea o n e. n addition to t e astern ins ired s a treat ents t ey a e on been kno n or, t e s a s se ond oor o ses Ha a edi a est eti s. nder t e e o reno ned asti and os eti s r eon r. ean i e and in artners i it kin e ti a s, t ey i o er edi a rade a ia s, otent e i a ee s, and in e tab e o tions, a it t e i ded o is t at as be o e synony o s it Ha a a. hammamspa.ca WINTER 2020 LUXE MAGAZINE CANADA 35

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LIVING

A PERFECT MATCH

by ANDREA KARR

IS AN AT-HOME DNA KIT THE MUST-GIVE PRESENT OF THE SEASON? MAYBE... IF YOU KNOW THE RISKS AND REWARDS.

WE

ALL HAVE at least one person who is impossible to shop for come birthdays or Christmas. What are you supposed to buy for the person who has everything? The answer could lie with direct-to-consumer DNA testing, an industry that’s on the rise with millions of people curious to learn what’s hiding in their chromosomes. But before you buy, it’s essential to understand the benefits to your loved one—and the

potential consequences.

When it comes to purchasing a kit, the process is simple.

Typically, you’ll order it online for around $100 to $200 and have it shipped to your home in an easy-to-wrap box. The recipient of your gift will then mail a DNA sample—most often a vial of saliva—to the personal genomics company for analysis and receive an online report in a matter of weeks.

The types of reports vary. Some companies provide ancestry information, which can help recipients understand their heritage, make a family tree and get in touch with distant relatives. Other companies supply health data that may encourage individuals to make better lifestyle choices or take preventative measures against genetic predispositions. “We recently surveyed our customers and 76 per cent report at least one positive behaviour change,” says a spokesperson for 23andMe, one of the most popular personal genomics companies in the world.

One particularly interesting area of testing is pharmacogenetics, where a cheek swab can provide information to your healthcare practitioner about how you metabolize medications— from antidepressants to beta blockers. “Individuals metabolize 36 LUXE MAGAZINE CANADA WINTER 2020

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THREE DNA KITS WORTH UNWRAPPING medications at different speeds,” notes a spokesperson for myDNA, which has its own version of the test. “Arming a pharmacist or doctor with this information can help them get their patient on the right medication and dose sooner.”

Almost without fail, these tests provide an entertaining glimpse into data that was previously difficult to come by—and sometimes that information produces tangible positive outcomes. But because democratization of this technology is still so new, there are risks when it comes to sharing details about your identity with a DNA testing company. The most significant? Loss of privacy.

In June 2018, a server containing the email addresses of MyHeritage users was hacked—though no other information was leaked. Most personal genomics companies take careful steps to store personal information and DNA results separately as a security

ANCESTRYDNA Whether you were adopted, failed to ask your parents about your heritage while they were alive or simply want an in-depth picture of your genetic makeup, AncestryDNA can help. Their DNA test will provide information about your origins across 500 geographic regions and match you with living relatives. AncestryDNA has sold more than 15 million kits to date, meaning they have a wide pool of material.

METHOD: Saliva collection PRICE: $129 WEBSITE: ancestry.ca/dna/

precaution, and will wipe personal identifiers if you opt to share your DNA with third-party researchers and drug developers. Still, it’s possible to cross-reference DNA with public information like voter lists and, in some cases, identify the owner.

Another privacy issue was addressed in Canada in May 2017 when the Genetic Non-Discrimination Act (GNDA) became law.

GNDA prevents any company from requiring an individual to undergo genetic testing or disclose the results of a genetic test as a condition for obtaining goods or service—such as an insurance policy—or to qualify for a job. In December 2018, the Quebec Court of Appeal challenged the law as unconstitutional, saying it infringes on provincial jurisdiction.

Marie-Claude Landry, Chief Commissioner of the Canadian Human Rights Commission, took a different view at the time and called for even stronger protection at the federal level—especially as technology develops. “Taking a DNA test puts anyone at risk

23ANDME One of the most interesting and varied DNA kits on the market, 23andMe Health + Ancestry includes more than 130 reports about your personal traits (including the likelihood that you have dandruff and are prone to mosquito bites), predisposition toward certain diseases and genetic variants you could pass on to your children.

The test also analyzes ancestry for more than 1,500 regions worldwide.

METHOD: Saliva collection PRICE: $199 for the Health + Ancestry kit WEBSITE: 23andme.com

when they try to get a job, adopt a child, travel, get insurance or access health care,” she said. “We have yet to fully understand the potential risks we all now face when taking a genetic test. In this information age where people’s personal data is being widely collected and misused, genetic information can be used in ways we did not predict or expect.”

Whether you undergo testing with a doctor or use an at-home kit, your genetic material matters. It can be a powerful tool, but it’s also highly sensitive and impossible to change—unlike a credit card number or password. If you choose to take a DNA test or give one as a gift, keep up-to-date on the company’s privacy policies and the genetic information protection laws that govern your province. And remember: If you or your gift recipient wants the physical sample destroyed or your account deleted at any time, companies like myDNA, 23andMe and AncestryDNA promise to

MYDNA This Australian company offers a few different kit types, including a PGx (a.k.a. pharmacogenetics) test that provides information on how individuals break down certain medications. With this knowledge, your pharmacist or physician can better understand which prescription antidepressants or pain meds are likely to be most effective for your biochemistry.

METHOD: Cheek swab PRICE: $199 at an accredited pharmacy WEBSITE: myDNA.life

honour that right.

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ExclusivE & uniquE THAT’S THE REAL YOU We are a mother-daughter brand and our vision is to create something that will make you feel exclusive, authentic and elegant.

We pour our passion into creative designs and share that beauty with the world. For us, it’s all in the details and quality: our products are entirely made in Italy and carry a number of certification, and the collections are limited in quantity. Our goal is to create pieces you will be passionate about wearing.

- Orietta & Orianna Modern suede mini bag with adjustable shoulder strap. Dual-tone, perfect for any occasion.

Numbered, limited edition, made in Italy.

100% Italian silk scarf in gorgeous fall colours. Numbered, limited edition, made in Italy.

Genuine calfskin leather tote in blush pink with adjustable double handles. Side click buttons adjust to increase the bag’s volume. Shoulder strap included. Made in Italy, numbered, limited edition.

100% Italian silk scarf in an artistic and delicate floral pattern. Numbered, limited edition, made in Italy.

Genuine leather backpack with adjustable straps constructed of snake stamped leather. Made in Italy, numbered limited edition.

Numbered, limited edition folk scarf in 100% Italian silk. Artistic view of Mexican folk Dia de los Muertos, made in Italy.

–

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O R I E T T A P O L O . C O M

@ O P C O L L E C T I O N S

–

12/1/19 11:44 PM

Style Layer up

RENOWNED FOR THEIR shearling pieces, Canadian outerwear brand Hiso has been mastering cold-weather wear since 1975. it e ery ste ro so r in and desi n to fina rod tion and ed in house, you can feel the craftsmanship in each alpaca, wool or shearling garment. Shown here: “Malibu” by HiSO, $1,995, available at hiso.ca

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STYLE

On the Move a rie essika isited oronto re ent y to resent er brand s atest o e tions. o nder, reati e dire tor and ie e e ti e o fi er, desi ner and b siness o an s e as t rned essika into a i ion b siness in a itt e o er a de ade. e da ter o Andre Messika, one of the world’s most prominent diamond traders, s e anted to disr t t e or d o fine e e ery, reatin so et in o en o d b y or t e se es and ear e ery day. rrent y, essika s o e o e tion is t e ost o ar and a i ar o t e brand. ie es ran e ro to , , o erin a ran e o i and at ear s, do b e rin s and okers, defined by t eir t ree o in dia onds, worked into 18ct rose gold, 18ct white gold and 18ct yellow gold settin s. is reet and i t ei t, t e trio o sty es re resent t e o e o yesterday, today and to orro . essika is a ai ab e in anada at irks maisonbirks.com

FIRST CANADIAN FURLA IS OPEN AT YORKDALE

Spicy New Scent

latest fragrance is an e oti , s i y b end on red ro t e e ories o er er ran ois e a y. t o do not remember the smell of the famous Bay Rum lotion, a e a distin t e ory o a bott e in y at er s pharmacy that stirred my curiosity. Spice Blend is the ra rant trans ation o an e oti i a e ste in ro my childhood. This fragrance has a warm signature underlined by an unusual crowd of spices that meet and mingle. Spice Blend is like a whirlwind—but whether it stokes t e fire or re res es s is ard to say, e says. Spice Blend sits at a crossroads of spices with a si nat re s ent t at is strikin , res and fiery. e ain notes are inspired by the tropics, along with spices from aro nd t e or d and a r abso te. aison ristian ior i e end, a ai ab e at aks i t en e, oronto and dior.com

JUST IN TIME or o iday s o in , t e first e er anadian retai o ation o ta ian brand r a o ened at orkda e. ro t to anada in partnership with Halcyon Brands, the store’s concept is minimalist and so isti ated re e tin r a s a es o o binin a t enti ta ian heritage with contemporary design. The boutique offers an assortment of o en s s a eat er oods, s oes, s n asses and s ar es. e a e seen i tra fi on o r e o er e site ro oronto based sto ers and a e identified t is anadian re ion as an o ort nity or ro t , says berto a er en o, r a s O. e are e ited to enter t is s e ifi market through such an established shopping center and offer shoppers the brand e erien e in o r store. ra was founded by the Furlanetto family in and ontin es to be a i y o ned.

The brand stands for quality, colourful reati ity, oy ness and a onte orary lifestyle. They produce bags, shoes and accessories for men and women. The atest ro r a i a so be a ai ab e to anadian ons ers dire t y ro t e website starting in January 2020. furla.com

CARE MORE FOR YOUR SKIN WITH THE CARE PRINCIPLE TORONTO TELEVISION darling Dina Pugliese launched her new premium, made-in-Canada skincare line recently. The Care Principle is an anti-aging routine that i a a ra o i ree a d cr e ree w i e i i o dra ed ea ki . pired er ra dmo er a d er e d o ome i e e e crea ed products that you can feel good about putting on your skin. “This skincare line has been a labour of love that has taken years to formulate. I didn’t just want a o io or m e a d m ami wa ed ome i or e er o e. o p ood i o e wor d a wo d make e er o e ee ood a ie e. e are ri cip e i a ree ep ro i e wi o r ke prod c or ea ki i e o acia er m a ream i ream a d e ream. ai a e a thecareprinciple.com 40

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STYLE

GLOBAL INFLUENCE

HANIA KUZBARI IS ON A MISSION TO MAKE THE EARTH A BETTER PLACE, ONE HANDCRAFTED JEWELLERY COLLECTION AT A TIME.

by ANDREA KARR PHOTOGRAPHY & STYLING by RYAN HOUSSARI

Bracelets from Hania Kuzbari’s Freestyle Collection.

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by handmade objects—from the bed she slept in to

Hania Kuzbari wearing the “Alejandro” necklace from the Smile Collection.

the plates she ate from. In this environment, she not only developed an appreciation for handcrafted items, but also learned skills like knitting and sculpting. She soon realized that using her hands to manipulate intricate pieces was her passion. “With jewellery, the ingredients are different, but the core of my passion is the same,” she says. “Jewellery always fascinated me. I’d think, ‘Oh my god, how did they do this?

How did they solder these pieces? How do they work with metal, this solid substance? How did they do the stones?’” She started searching out the answers to her questions—a journey that continued when she moved to Jordan as a young adult and, later, on to Toronto.

Kuzbari dabbled in jewellery-making as a hobby, but it wasn’t until after she completed a business degree that she decided to pursue a career in fine jewellery design. Since then, her formal education has been a winding path that spans decades and countries.

Kuzbari learned the practical skills—jewellery making and gemmology—in Canada. But she went to the Alchimia Contemporary Jewellery School in Florence to study design. “I learned how to be inspired, how to use my inspiration in my jewellery and how to think out of the box—to be free and challenge myself,” she says.

Now, she carries the two countries and their opposing influences with her. “I love Canada. I love the ideology of this country and the cultural diversity,

T

which enriches my designs,” she says. But she’s also attracted to the intricacy of Italian-made finery.

“They work with pieces that require unique skill and technique,” Kuzbari notes. “The workmanship is more advanced in Italy. In Canada, they go for simple things. I try to find a balance. My technique isn’t totally North American and I don’t call it European.

ORONTO FINE JEWELLERY designer Hania Kuzbari

While Kuzbari’s time spent studying in Canada and

her CV and it’s easy to see why. The Syrian-Canadian has

Italy add nuance, it’s her Middle Eastern heritage that

exhibited her jewellery around the globe with events in

is the backbone of everything she designs. Not only

London, Milan, Amman and Dubai, but for spring 2020,

does she continue to build every item at her workshop

she decided to bring her collectible objets d’arts home.

in Jordan, but her emotional connection to Syria

The designer, who launched her eponymous collection

infuses every necklace and earring, including the very

in 2014, made her Canadian debut at Toronto Fashion

first piece of fine jewellery that she ever crafted. “It

Week in September, where she hosted a private afternoon

was a ring made with 18-karat gold and diamonds,”

tea at the Hazelton Hotel. “Because we deal with intimate

she remembers. “And the inspiration was the jasmine

objects, we chose to have a small event to match,” she

flower, which is the flower of the Levantine region—

said at the time.

Syria, Lebanon, Jordan. When you go there, you smell

The tea was an opportunity for local aesthetes

jasmine.” The ring and matching necklace remain in

to get a closer look at Kuzbari’s ready-made collections,

Kuzbari’s personal collection and make an appearance

Horseshoe and Freestyle, as well as two of her made-

on special occasions, but they weren’t the last pieces

to-order collections, Smile and Levant. It also offered

to benefit from her love for her home country and

the

the surrounding area.

Toronto

fashion

community

the

chance

to

shine a light on a woman with a fascinating history and promising future.

STYLE_HANIA_KUZBARI_W20_PRINT_READY.indd 43

It’s something in the middle.”

considers herself a citizen of the world. Take one glance at

The Levant collection, which features diamonds and tourmalines embedded in intricate 18-karat gold,

Kuzbari’s story begins in Damascus, the Syrian capital

uses granulation (where spheres of metal are soldered

where she was born and where she grew up surrounded

to a surface) and filigree (where threads of metal are WINTER 2020 LUXE MAGAZINE CANADA

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The “Victoria” necklace from the Smile Collection, rings and earrings from the Freestyle Collection.

soldered together)—two ornamentation techniques that were historically prominent in the region. The collection is a tribute to the strength of Zenobia, the third-century queen of the Palmyrene Empire known for challenging the authority of Rome, while the design elements themselves are inspired by the ancient ruins of Palmyra, Petra and Amman. These historical treasures were heavily influenced by Greek and Roman architecture and feature massive columns, stately archways and elaborate carvings, which Kuzbari nods to in her collection with contrasting geometric shapes and curving lines. Each bauble is equal parts angular and round, strong and delicate, quiet and confident and brings the essence of the past into the present.

The Smile collection is another example of Syria’s impact on Kuzbari’s life—but this time, she created the collection as a response to current events. Kuzbari was devastated when the Syrian Civil War began. “There was a huge sadness that I went through,” she remembers. “Syria is the place of my inspiration.

It is my childhood. I thought, ‘I’m going to close my business.’

I was really down.” But she started playing around with stones and felt something grinning back at her. The result was a series of one-of-a-kind silver pendants with bejewelled smiling faces and human names. “I wanted to create something to The Levant Rondel earrings with diamonds and green tourmalines from the Levant Collection.

make myself happy and make others happy,” she says. “It’s about the message behind these pieces: Stay kind, smile and be hopeful that things will get better.” When Kuzbari looks back on this time in her life—when she was so close to giving in to her pain—she feels immense pride that she was able to find the strength go on, and to express herself through her artistic medium.

Horseshoe necklace with blue sapphire and diamond crown from the Horseshoe Collection, rings from the Freestyle Collection.

IT’S ABOUT THE MESSAGE BEHIND THESE PIECES: STAY KIND, SMILE AND BE HOPEFUL THAT THINGS WILL GET BETTER. 44

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ABOVE Hania Kuzbari at the drawing board.

RIGHT The “Desdemona” necklace from the Smile Collection, and rings from the Levant and Freestyle Collections.

Kuzbari brings this strength, and this penchant for storytelling, to every collection she creates. To her, jewellery-making is a form of communication. And communicating—about art, culture and conflict—is an integral part of being a global citizen and creating change in the world. It’s one of the reasons why she prefers to showcase her work at intimate events where she can actually meet everyone who comes to look at her pieces. “I have this responsibility as a member of the global community to make our world a better place by sharing, developing and improving our lifestyle,” she says. “When I talk about the stories behind my jewellery with others, and these people tell me their stories, we’re exchanging culture.” She points back to her Levant collection, which commemorates architectural treasures—many of which were destroyed during the Syrian Civil War. “It’s sad to lose something this valuable,” she says. “I want to send a message to the world to save these places and to be part of what is happening in Syria.”

Kuzbari approaches fine jewellery creation like an artist with a conscience. She may own a business, but it has heart and a purpose: to share culture, remember history and inspire change.

For Kuzbari, jewellery is so much more than adornment. “My jewellery is something pretty to wear,” she says. “But I also want to send a message.” In this way, she can honour her role as a member of a global society and her obligation to leave the world better than she found it.

The jewellery brand is currently being sold at the Gardiner Museum and online at haniakuzbari.com. Look out for its brick-and-mortar shop to come next year.

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Travel Regent Seven Seas Cruises announces rare 120-night circumnavigation REGENT SEVEN SEAS CRUISES, the world’s leading luxury ocean cruise line, announced its newest Navigate the or d eme o e aci c o a e embarking in January 2022 on a 120-night journey circumnavigating the inspiring aci c im a oard e a ie e e Seas Mariner. Seven Seas Mariner will be guests’ home for 120 nights and is the wor d r a i e a a co r cruise ship. The journey includes 17 countries and 59 distinct ports of call with 18 overnight stays, while providing access to 43 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and nearly 300 free shore excursions. Allinclusive fares start at $63,999 per guest, with all luxuries included. rssc.com

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Four Seasons Nevis refurb complete in time for the holidays

F

OUR SEASONS RESORT NEVIS is putting t e finis in to es on its o n ersion o a winter wonderland as it prepares to unveil the brand new On the Dune restaurant and new signature pool just in time for the holidays. As t e fina ase o t e ti year en an e ent ro e t nears its completion, the resort has already begun rolling out a few revitalised spaces, including Mango restaurant, which repositioned the bar area to allow for more unobstructed Caribbean views during sunset cocktail hour. That, of course, is in addition to the re-envisioned guest rooms and suites, updated Great House lobby and new food and beverage outlets, EsQuilina and crowned monkey Rum Bar, that were launched late last year. The resort’s signature pool has been completely reconstructed and raised to create one long sight line from the Great House lobby straight out to the Caribbean Sea horizon. Surrounded by lush ne ands a in , t e ne infinity ed e oo i be the centrepiece of the resort, featuring new luxury pool cabanas fully-equipped with comfortable seating and furnishings, Wi-Fi connectivity and power. fourseasons.com/nevis

VILLAS AMONG THE VINES

Canyon Ranch Debuts New Wellness Retreat

THIS MONTH the much-anticipated Lodge and Spa will open at Gibbston Valley Winery in the Central Otago wine region of New Zealand.

Twenty-four premium villas and a central lodge are tucked alongside the vines, along with an onsite spa welcoming guests with vinotherapy beauty treatments. The signature experience includes premium winery, vineyard and wine cave tours and private wine tasting. gibbstonvalley.com

CANYON RANCH, the integrative wellness industry leader for four decades, recently anno n ed t e o enin o anyon an e ness etreat oodside, t e brand s first retreat model. Set on 16 acres covered in ancient redwoods in Woodside, California, the property is a tr e retreat to nat re t at o ers an ins irin ands a e or se re e tion. e s eni ro erty combines intimate spaces and a singular natural setting with multi-day, intentions-based ro ra s. t o t o e tion o s a, fitness, and ind body ser i es i rt er ests purpose during their stay. The spa will offer traditional, alternative, and modern therapies, including Canyon Ranch favourites and new signature treatments inspired by the redwood forest settin . ests i a e t e abi ity to se e t ro dai y fitness asses, editation sessions, nature walks, creative expression courses, wellness talks, and more. Destination excursions will provide unprecedented access to the surrounding region and partners. Guests can enjoy guided mountain biking and hiking trips on some of the world’s best trails, intimate Equus coaching sessions, personalized vineyard and farm tours, and exclusive access to the region’s arts community. Private consultations, testing, and assessments with nutritionists, physiologists, spiritual wellness providers, and coaches will also be available to allow for a more tailored experience. canyonranch.com/woodside WINTER 2020 LUXE MAGAZINE CANADA 47

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TRAVEL

Skiing Aspen Mountain with a view of the town at the base of the mountain.

THE VIEW FROM THE TOP

by HOLLY CRAWFORD

IF YOU’RE SEARCHING for a wintry getaway, few

This mountain town is a mecca for good reason, it’s

destinations

country.

almost unrealistically pretty. Turn-of-the-century brick

Picturesque mountain towns cluster around the soaring

buildings that now house the world’s top designer brands

Rocky Mountains, peaks rising up against bright blue,

are lined up along streets dotted with twinkling lights,

clear skies. Postcard downtowns lead up hillsides to

the slope of Ajax Mountain soaring just in the distance.

to

Colorado’s

ski

chalets dotted along twisting mountain roads, all draped in a blanket of fresh snow. Everywhere you turn, looks like a storybook winter scene.

SKI

Aspen is comprised of four ski centres in the Elk Mountain

ASPEN

Range of the Rockies: Aspen, known for rising up from

The slopes of Aspen-Snowmass draw skiers from across

widest variety of terrain; Aspen Highlands, known for

the globe, but Aspen is also known as a magnet for the

its large bowl runs and fresh powder; and Buttermilk

jet-set, celebrities and wannabe’s. This is where you’re as

and its spacious groomed runs and terrain for every age

likely to find a Hollywood starlet popping into a designer

and ability. You can stay at one or play at all four. Four

boutique, as hopping off the gondola on Ajax Mountain.

Mountain Sports makes moving equipment from place to

the historic downtown; Snowmass, the largest with the

PHOTO BY JEREMY SWANSON

compare

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The cozy lobby at The Limelight Hotel, Snowmass Village.

place easy with their ski valet program. Just drop equipment at the end of day and it will be waiting for you the next morning at your ski centre of choice; all you need do is hop on the hotel shuttle and grab your gear at the gondola line.

STAY

The Limelight Hotel has two locations in Aspen; one right in downtown Aspen and the newest at Snowmass. I’ve stayed at both, and the Limelight is one of those rare hotels that feels both a bit indulgent and

e itt e Ne s fine dining restaurant Element 47 serves exquisitely prepared and presented dishes.

completely laid back at the same time. Maybe it’s the fresh Colorado air, maybe it’s the dog-friendly policy…but the Limelight has a great vibe. Stay in town if you want to be within walking distance of nightlife, stay at Snowmass if you want the convenience of waking up slope side to get your first run of the day in early.

EAT + DRINK

The Little Nell opens up their private cellar for Sommelier-led wine tastings to special dinner guests.

A must-see in Aspen is the Little Nell Hotel (one of the town’s best known) and its fine dining restaurant Element 47. They have received the Wine Spectator Grand Award for more than 20 years running, and the kitchen has its own private wagyu supplier. You can’t make a wrong choice on this menu. For a seriously intimate experience, ask for a cellar tour with the sommelier. The Little Nell has a wellrespected wine program with more than 20,000 bottles in the cellar and 50 sommeliers on staff. This tour takes guests on a back-of-house route to the cellar, where you can indulge in a glass of bubbly among the enormous stash of bottles from around the world. Celeb guests have taken to signing their name on the walls of the cellar; search the walls for your favourite star and add your own. The aprés ski scene at the hotel’s slope side bar and outdoor patio Ajax Tavern is also not to

Shopping in downtown Aspen.

be missed.

A darling of Aspen’s local food lovers, Meat & Cheese offers a little bit of everything, from rustic cuisine to craft beers, an eclectic wine list, fresh juices, and coffee. A great place to grab a mid-day bite but be sure to come back after dinner to grab a drink at the moody “speakeasy” Hooch hidden away downstairs. CBD Gin and Tonic anyone?

J-Bar at Hotel Jerome is one of my faves in Aspen, I love the mountain cabin meets men’s club vibe of the décor at this hotel, and drinks at J-Bar feel like you’ve settled in with the locals. The hotel has been one of Aspen’s social settings since 1889, when it served up “Aspen Crud” during prohibition (a spiked milkshake that is still on the menu). Order up something brown in a rocks glass and enjoy the scene.

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TRAVEL A view of the mountains that set a backdrop for the charming and historic town of Telluride.

The rustic, chalet style suites at Fairmont Heritage Place, Franz Klammer Lodge.

The winner of best dinner view has to be Allred’s.

PHOTO BY TELLURIDE SKI RESORT, BEN ENG; RYAN BONNEAU

Snowshoeing is just one the activities you can arrange at the resort.

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TELLURIDE

Allreds sits at 10,551 feet and offers the best dinner view

The distance from Aspen to Telluride is just over 320

cabin-chic setting. The menu is filled with handcrafted

kilometres, about a four-hour drive and incredibly

cocktails and items sourced from Colorado including

scenic. Each bend of the road opens up to reveal a new

the elk and lamb. Allreds is seasonal, and closes April,

valley view or mountain rising up in the distance. It’s

May, October and November. The restaurant has been

a nose-to-the-glass kind of drive, elk and deer spotting

recognized by Wine Spectator and Wine Enthusiast.

on the mountain. This is fine dining in a rustic, mountain

along the way. If you’re looking for authenticity in your

Take the gondola all the way into town and stroll

getaway, Telluride has it in spades. While this is another

over to New Sheridan Hotel for what feels like a trip

Colorado ski town that dares you to look away from

back in time. Opened in 1895, the New Sheridan bar

its natural beauty, the town is alive with locals going

looks like a western movie set. The building still boasts

about their day-to-day like there was nothing to see. The

its original tin tile ceiling, mahogany paneling and

town, in the San Juan Mountain Range, was founded as

filigree light fixtures. This is the place to pull up a stool

a mining camp in 1878, and today is populated by less

at the bar and order a drink, elbow to elbow with the

than 2,500 full-time residents. The Telluride Historic

locals, and tell tales about the best run of the day.

District (most of the town) is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

SKI

Telluride is really two towns: the historic Town at the base of the mountain, and the purpose-built Mountain Village. Mountain Village is where the large hotels, restaurants and shops are strung along pedestrian walkways, all set in place to access the runs.

e istory fi ed ain street o e ride. e istori distri t is on t e Nationa e ister o Histori a es.

Telluride is revered for having something for everyone. A large array of runs for all skill levels, along with bowls, chutes, cliffs and glades. Experts are wowed by the variety of everything from double-blacks to hike-to runs; and beginners and intermediates will find ample runs to keep them challenged all day.

STAY

Fairmont Heritage Place, Franz Klammer Lodge is perfectly situated in Mountain Village and oozes rustic mountain appeal. The resort offers two- and threebedroom residences just steps from the gondola and mountain, shops and restaurants of the Village. Opened in 1996 as Colorado’s first private residence club, the 63-residence resort was named after legendary Austrian skiing star, Franz Klammer, and is located at almost 10,000 feet above sea level. The residences are spacious with full kitchen, living and dining areas, and each bedroom has its own large bath. It’s perfect lodging for families or groups, offering the convenience and

b ebird day on t e s o es at e ride.

comfort of home, with ample dining opportunities just outside the door.

EAT + DRINK

One of the most unique aspects of a stay in Telluride is riding the gondola from the Mountain Village to the Town. Leaving the Village from Gondola Plaza you first ascend to San Sophia Station (10,540 feet) where you can jump off to the slopes, or Allreds Restaurant. Or, continue the descent to the Town of Telluride (8,750 feet). It’s an eight-mile, 13-minute ride with epic views.

After the slopes are closed to skiers, blankets are added to the seats to add comfort from the chill. It’s the only free transportation of its kind in the United States, and what a ride to dinner it makes.

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11/27/19 9:45 PM

Food Hana to open this winter HANA, the new luxury concept by Aburi Restaurants Canada, creators of Miku Toronto and TORA, is set to open this winter in Toronto. Inspired by Kyo-Kaiseki, Chef Ryusuke Nakagawa approaches food as an art form, using ski b ri te ni es to ba an e t e a o r, te t re, and resentation o ea dis . it its e si e ork i e address and inti ate ri ate dinin o tions, Hana is soon to brin an n re edented a anese fine dinin e erien e to t e ity with unforgettable Omakase cuisine. aburihana.com.

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FOOD

MONTREAL HAS THE MOST BEAUTIFUL RESTAURANT

R

ESTAURANT JÉRÔME FERRER by Europea won the “Most Beautiful Restaurant” at the prestigious Restaurant & Bar Design Awards in the “Americas” category recently. It has also been selected to receive a 2019 Best of Canada Award from Canadian Interiors Magazine. Located in downtown Montreal, the space was designed by Provencher Roy and stands o t it its dis reet so isti ation, ri ateria s and e anned o . ro ea s open layout is divided into zones with monumental wooden arches, immersing patrons into the grand space. Provencher Roy worked with various artists to create several custom pieces for the ro e t in din rnit re, i tin fi t res and t e o ersi e ora ar et. jerromeferrer.ca

EATALY IS OPEN

THE MUCH-ANTICIPATED o enin o t e first anadian o ation o ata y took place in mid-November. Focused on high-quality products, Eataly is the largest ta ian retai and dinin e erien e in t e or d, trans or in t e ay ons ers e erien e ood, be era e and retai ood s o in . arket, o nters, a es, resta rants and ed ationa e erien es are o bined nder one roo . e first ata y o ened in orino in and as ro n into o ations aro nd t e or d. ata y oronto is , s are eet set o er t ree e e s in t e eart o ork i e with seven food counters, four restaurants, two cafes, an in-house brewery and a market with traditional Italian fare. eataly.com

The Latest from Le Creuset LE CREUSET released a newly designed cooking vessel, just in time for hosting season. Its durable enamelled cast iron interior means it easily releases even the stickiest foods, making this the perfect piece to create multi-layered casseroles, gratins and desserts. Le Creuset prides itself on bein t e ost so t a ter ook are brand in kit ens a ross anada, ro ro essiona s to assionate o e ooks. is ray ersion i ook reat on t e tab e bri in it roasted e etab es. o n ere in Oyster, , a ai ab e at e re set bo ti es and lecreuset.ca 54

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AT T H E C O R N E R H O U S E

ROMANCE

501 Davenport Rd, Toronto flordesalrestaurant.ca info@flordesalrestaurant.ca

OF FINE DINING Modern cuisine influenced by the foods of Southern Europe

/flordesalrestaurant Hugo Saenz, Chef Cristina da Costa, Owner

416.923.2604

FOOD

Celebratory CENTREPIECE CAKES

In her latest cookbook, Set for the Holidays, Anna Olson offers readers recipes and tips for every type of meal and entertaining for all sorts of holiday get-togethers.

Among them, a delectable collection of what she calls “Celebratory Centrepiece Cakes.” These are showstopper desserts, meant to take centre stage on your table.

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Pecan Butter Tart Cheesecake

MAKES ONE 9-INCH (23 CM) CHEESECAKE, SERVES 16 TO 20, PREP: 30 MINUTES, COOK: 1 HOUR, PLUS CHILLING

6. Carefully run a palette knife around the inside edge of the pan (this will prevent cracks developing as the cheesecake cools). Once the cake has cooled to room temperature (check by touching the bottom of the pan, not the sides), chill the cheesecake, uncovered, for at least 6 hours, or overnight.

BASE 1 recipe Signature Butter Tart Squares (page 227), made with 1 cup (100 g) pecan halves or pieces and baked in a well-greased 9-inch (23 cm) round springform pan, at room temperature

7. To serve the cake, run a palette knife around the inside of the pan again and then loosen and remove the springform ring. Run your palette knife under the base of the cheesecake to loosen it from the bottom of the pan. Carefully slide the cake onto a serving plate.

CHEESECAKE FILLING 2 pkgs (each 8 oz/250 g) cream cheese, at room temperature ½ cup (100 g) packed light brown sugar ¼ cup (60 mL) pure maple syrup ½ cup (125 mL) sour cream 2 tsp pure vanilla extract 2 large eggs 1 large egg yolk ½ cup (50 g) lightly toasted pecan

MAKE AHEAD You can store the baked but undecorated cheesecake in its pan, well wrapped, in the fridge for up to 4 days. It can be frozen, undecorated and well wrapped, for up to 3 months.

Thaw the cake in the fridge overnight before decorating and serving.

1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Have the cooled butter tart base at hand in its springform pan.

2. For the cheesecake filling, beat the cream cheese in a bowl using electric beaters, or in a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, on high speed until fluffy.

Add the brown sugar and beat well on high speed until dissolved, stopping to scrape down the bowl occasionally.

3. Add the maple syrup and beat again on high speed, scraping the bowl. Add the sour cream and vanilla and beat again on high until smooth. This is the final step to ensure there are no lumps in the mixture, so scrape the bowl well.

4. Reduce the speed to medium-low and add the eggs 1 at a time and then the yolk, beating well after each addition (and yes, scraping down the bowl). Stir in the pecan pieces by hand. Pour over the cooled butter tart base.

5. Bake for about 1 hour, until the cheesecake jiggles in the centre but is set around the outside. (It will still look a little shiny on the surface at the centre.) Let cool in the pan on a wire rack for 10 minutes.

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FOOD Mont Blanc Torte, named after the tallest mountain in the European Alps, typically has a meringue base, a cream element and a topping of piped chestnut purÊe that looks like vermicelli pasta. I’ve adapted this classic, adding a flourless chocolate torte as the base, but still respecting the chestnut cream and meringue elements.

MAKE AHEAD You can bake the cake and the meringue a day ahead of serving. Store the cake in the pan in the fridge, uncovered, overnight; loosely cover the baking tray of meringue and leave at room temperature.

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Flourless Chocolate Mont Blanc Torte

MAKES ONE 10-INCH (25 CM) TORTE, SERVES 16, PREP: 1 HOUR, PLUS CHILLING, COOK: 135 MINUTES

FLOURLESS CHOCOLATE CAKE 1 ¼ cups (285 g) unsalted butter, cut into pieces 9 oz (270 g) dark couverture/baking chocolate, cut into pieces 10 large eggs, separated and at room temperature 1 ½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar 2 tsp pure vanilla extract ½ cup (60 g) Dutch process cocoa powder ½ cup (125 mL) full-fat sour cream MERINGUE CRUMBLE 2 large egg whites, at room temperature ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar

1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Grease a 10-inch (25

CHESTNUT CREAM ¾ cup (175 g) canned unsweetened chestnut purée 6 Tbsp (75 g) granulated sugar ½ cup (125 mL) full-fat sour cream (14 to 18%) 2 Tbsp (30 mL) brandy 1 tsp pure vanilla extract ½ cup (125 mL) whipping cream CHESTNUT VERMICELLI 2 cups (475 g) canned unsweetened chestnut purée 1 tsp pure vanilla extract ¾ cup (100 g) icing sugar, sifted Splash of brandy, if needed

9. Bake for 40 to 60 minutes, cracking open the oven

cm) springform pan and line the bottom and sides with

door a little if you notice the meringues begin to colour

parchment paper.

within the first 20 minutes (a hint of browning by the

2. For the cake, place the butter and chocolate in a metal bowl and set it over a saucepan with an inch (2.5 cm) of barely simmering water, stirring gently until everything has melted and is smooth. Set aside (but the chocolate can be used while still warm).

3. Using electric beaters, or in a stand mixer fitted with the whip attachment, whip the egg whites on high speed until frothy. With the mixer running, slowly add ½ cup (100 g) of the sugar and continue whipping until the

end is OK—it matches the look of the assembled torte). The cooking time will depend on the ambient humidity and temperature. Let cool on the baking tray on a wire rack.

10. For the chestnut cream, scoop the chestnut purée into a bowl and smooth it out by hand with a spatula. Beat in the sugar until well combined, then whisk in the sour cream, brandy and vanilla.

11. In a separate bowl, whip the whipping cream on high

whites hold a soft peak when the beaters are lifted. Set

speed until it forms a soft peak when the beaters are

aside.

lifted and then fold it into the chestnut mixture. Cover

4. Whip the egg yolks, the remaining 1 cup (200 g) of sugar and the vanilla on high speed until the mixture

the bowl and chill while you prepare the vermicelli.

12. For the chestnut vermicelli, scoop the chestnut purée

has doubled in volume and is pale and thick, about 4

into a bowl and smooth it out by hand using a spatula.

minutes. Whisk in the melted chocolate by hand.

Stir in the vanilla. Stir in the icing sugar, ¼ cup (32 g)

5. Sift the cocoa powder over the egg yolk mixture and use a whisk to stir it in. Whisk in the sour cream. Fold in the egg whites in 2 additions, almost completely folding in the first before adding the second. Scrape the batter into the prepared pan and bake for about 75 minutes, until the top puffs up like a soufflé, cracks a bit and sounds a bit like a drum when tapped.

6. Let cool completely to room temperature in the pan on a wire rack (the cake will fall in the centre), then chill, uncovered, in the pan for at least 2 hours, so that it sets up and is easy to remove from the pan.

7. For the meringue crumble, reduce the oven temperature to 275°F (135°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.

8. Using electric beaters or in a stand mixer fitted with the whip attachment, whip the egg whites on high speed

at a time, until the mixture becomes a thick paste that holds its shape but is soft enough to pipe. If it seems a bit stiff, add a splash of brandy. Spoon into a piping bag fitted with a small plain tip, less than ¼ inch (4 mm to 0.5 cm). Keep at room temperature until ready to use.

13. To assemble the cake, release it from the pan, peel away and discard the parchment paper and set the cake on a platter or cake stand. Dollop the chestnut cream on top of the cake, filling the centre where the cake has fallen and spreading to level it. Hold the piping bag full of chestnut vermicelli icing about 2 inches (5 cm) above the torte and squeeze out the purée, letting it wiggle and squiggle into vermicelli as you cover the chestnut cream.

Chill the cake, uncovered, for at least 2 hours to set.

14. Immediately before serving, break up the meringue and pile the crumbled pieces high on top of the chilled torte.

until foamy. With the mixer running, slowly pour in the sugar, continuing to whip on high until the egg whites hold a stiff peak when the beaters are lifted. Spoon the meringue into a piping bag fitted with a ½-inch (1 cm) plain tip and pipe lengths (they don’t need to be equal) of meringue onto the baking tray.

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Lime Chiffon Cake with Raspberry Swiss Meringue Buttercream

MAKES ONE 10-INCH (25 CM) LAYER CAKE, SERVES 16, PREP: 45 MINUTES, COOK: 75 MINUTES

CAKE 7 large eggs, separated and at room temperature 3 large egg whites, at room temperature 2 tsp cream of tartar 1 ½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar, divided 2 ¼ cups (290 g) cake and pastry flour 2 tsp baking powder ½ tsp fine sea salt Finely grated zest of 3 limes ¾ cup (175 mL) lime juice ½ cup (125 mL) vegetable oil

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Have ready an ungreased 10-inch (25 cm) angel food cake pan.

2. For the cake, place the 10 egg whites in a large mixing bowl, or in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whip attachment. Add the cream of tartar and whip on high speed until foamy. With the mixer still running, add ¼ cup (50 g) of the sugar and continue to whip until medium peaks form when the beaters are lifted. Set aside.

3. Sift the flour, the remaining 1 ¼ cups (250 g) of sugar, baking powder and salt into a mixing bowl (if using a stand mixer, you do not need to wash the bowl or whip attachment after whipping the egg whites). Add the lime zest, lime juice, oil and the 7 egg yolks. Whip on medium-

BUTTERCREAM 6 large egg whites 1 2⁄3 cups (240 g) granulated sugar 1 2⁄3 cups (365 g) unsalted butter, at room temperature, cut into pieces 1 ⁄3 cup (80 mL) unstrained raspberry purée, made from frozen and thawed raspberries 1 Tbsp (15 mL) fresh lime juice 2 tsp pure vanilla extract 1 ½ cups (255 g) fresh raspberries Granulated sugar, for garnish Fresh mint leaves, for garnish 9. When the cake has cooled and you’re ready to assemble it, run a palette knife around the inside edge of the cake pan. Insert a skewer down the inside of the centre hole in a few places, just to loosen the cake a bit. Tap out the cake onto the counter (you may have to tap it quite hard, but it will come out intact).

10. To assemble the cake, use a serrated knife to slice it horizontally into 3 equal layers. Place the bottom third of the cake on a platter or a cake stand and spread the top of it with buttercream. Use a small palette knife to reach into the centre hole and spread buttercream on the inside ring.

11. Set the middle layer on top. Spread buttercream in the

low speed for 1 minute and then increase the speed to

centre hole and spread a little buttercream on the edges

medium-high, whipping for about 2 minutes, until the

of both layers of cake. Make sure it is well covered.

batter is smooth.

4. Fold the whipped whites into the batter in 2 additions (using a whisk allows you to fold easily without deflating the whipped whites).

5. Pour the batter into the tube pan and bake for about 1

12. Spread some buttercream on top of the middle layer of cake and then add the top layer, pressing gently to ensure the cake is level.

13. Spread some buttercream around the edges of the centre hole and then cover the top and sides of the cake

hour, until the centre springs back when gently pressed.

completely. Chill the cake for about an hour to set the

Cool the cake in the pan, either upside down on a wire

buttercream, uncovered, until ready to serve.

rack or, if the pan has “feet,” directly on the counter.

6. To make the buttercream, place the egg whites and

14. To garnish the cake, make sure the raspberries are dry and at room temperature. Dip half of the raspberries

sugar in a metal bowl and set it over a saucepan filled

into granulated sugar in a small bowl, shaking off any

with 2 inches (5 cm) of gently simmering water. Whisk

excess—the sugar will stick to the berries and look like a

constantly (but not vigorously) until the mixture reaches

light coating of frosting. Alternate dusted and undusted

150°F (65°C) on a candy thermometer, about 6 minutes.

berries in a circle on top of the cake, and insert a few

7. Use electric beaters or transfer the mixture to the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whip attachment and whip

mint leaves so the arrangement has the appearance of a wreath.

on high speed until the meringue has cooled to room temperature (it will hold a stiff peak by then).

8. With the mixer running on high speed, add the butter a few pieces at a time. At first the meringue will hold its volume, then the butter-cream will deflate a little and become very creamy yet fluffy looking. Beat in the raspberry purée, lime juice and vanilla. Set aside.

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FOOD It’s not often that I fully commit to a favourite dessert, since I love playing with new ideas, but this one will be on my holiday table for many years to come. It has a fluffy texture, a rich but not overly sweet frosting and a combination of flavours that is truly a crowd-pleaser.

MAKE AHEAD You can bake the cake up to 2 days ahead and store it, unfrosted and well wrapped, at room temperature. The fully assembled cake can be refrigerated for a further 1 to 2 days. Add the berry garnish no more than 4 hours before serving, otherwise the sugar on the berries will dissolve.

Excerpted from Set for the Holidays with Anna Olson by Anna Olson.

Copyright © 2018 Olson Food Concepts Inc. Photography by Janis Nicolay.

Published by Appetite by Random House®, a division of Penguin Random House Canada Limited. Reproduced by arrangement with the Publisher. All rights reserved.

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WINE TO GIVE, AND KEEP

WINE

by MICHAEL PINKUS

IN THE IMMORTAL WORDS of Matthew McConaughey,

consistently nailed traditional method bubbles year-in and

“Alright. Alright. Alright.” My column dedicated to great gift

year-out: Trius Brut ($29.95; #284539) delivers time and time

ideas to give and receive went over so well last year, the folks

again. This multi-award-winning sparkling has won on many

here at LUXE have asked me to come up with another list of

continents at many awards competitions and continues to be

the wines, spirits and bubbles worth the same treatment. So

a flag bearer for Canadian bubbles—for those guests expecting

here we go, it’s a little longer than last year, but you deserve it

the high-priced spread, hide the label and they’ll never know

… I mean your friends deserve it, yeah that’s the ticket.

the difference. Another of my Ontario go to fizzes is Henry of Pelham Cuvee Catharine Rosé Brut ($32.95; #217505).

I never seem to tire of having this one on hand and never hesitate to pour it. I have that much confidence in it. It does not disappoint, nor does it embarrass, and it’s pink, so it puts everyone in a good mood.

My final fizzy recommendation is an annual favourite—I currently have 20 bottles of this in my cellar and never fail to have less than a case kicking around (I won’t let myself get that low)— the Cono Sur Sparkling Pinot Noir Rosé ($13.95; #365205). Another bubble that also never fails to impress and continues to be one of the most consistent budget-friendly bottles of bubbly on the LCBO shelves. Don’t let the price fool you, this sparkler delivers time and time again, and when this goes on for a couple of bucks off (twice a year) that’s

SPARKLING PERSONALITY

Let’s start right off the top with the big gun—sparkling wine—

the time when you’ll really want to stock up … they say you can’t have bubbles every day, with this one on hand you darn near could.

the reason everyone with any sense gets up in the morning.

Many will say it’s coffee, maybe even tea, or those Kombucha drinks everyone is ga-ga over, but seriously, if it was readily available and socially acceptable we’d all start the day with a glass of Champagne (or two) and that would make every day just a little bit brighter.

Bollinger Special Cuvee Brut ($87.95; #384529) continues to be my bubbly of choice in the Champagne department, and it’s 007’s too. Elegant and always a treat it’s one of those bubbles that’ll just put a smile on your face and a spring in your step. Love Champagne but still want a bargain? The Gardet Cuvee Saint Flavy Tradition Champagne ($43.95; #924654) is the budget conscious alternative without sacrificing any of that Champagne cache, or quality, I’m a big fan of this bubble and you will be too.

WINTER WHITES

Over the course of the year I meet quite a few people who drink only white wine. Sadly, as Canadians we leave white

Looking to stay local in your bubbly ways? Look no

wine behind during the colder months, in favour of those

further than two long time producers in Ontario who have

cockle-warming reds. But there are a couple I’ll recommend

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here if you’re in a white frame of mind or have someone on your

and a leg. It still offered complexity and layering from Napa

list that needs pale liquid in their glass. Re-experience summer

without being too jammy and weighted down by its own fruit:

with the delightful Left Field Sauvignon Blanc from Te Awa

Wente 2016 Wetmore Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon ($29.95;

($20; #487496) both for its goofy label and the sunshine-kinda-

#963397). As an added bonus, for you Chardonnay fans the

wine inside. It’s my house white and never fails to make us feel

current vintage of the Wente Morning Fog Chardonnay

it’s sunny inside no matter what the temperature is outside.

($19.95; #175430) on the general list, is pretty amazing wine

Chardonnay seems to be available everywhere, but stock

too and one of their best Chardonnays under this label in quite

up on one of Ontario’s best value Chardonnays: Flat Rock

some time. Pick up both and this would also make an excellent

Cellars 2017 Chardonnay ($19.95; #286278). Now that they

gift pack for someone.

are under the watchful eye of 25-plus year veteran of Ontario

Finally, for those looking for a Rhone Valley (France) red

winemaking Dave Sheppard—maybe not a guy you’ve heard of

that kicks some serious ass for under $20 try the Les Celliers

but you’re gonna love the wines he’s making—pair it up with

des Princes 2016 La Couronne du Prince ($19.95; #010340).

his Flat Rock Cellars 2017 Pinot Noir ($21.95; #1545) and you

It’s not a wine designed to overwhelm you, instead it sneaks up

have a one-two punch that’ll be hard to beat. Buy them as a set

sip after sip and shows off what a well-structured value-priced

for your “Burgundy” loving friends and get some for yourself

wine is all about. You’ll wanna keep this one for yourself. Call

while you’re at it.

it a perk for going out and doing the shopping.

TIME FOR THE RED STUFF

SPIRITED MOMENTS

really high-priced, some mid-priced and some bargains. I’m

or the post dinner celebration past a little sherry or port.

going to recommend four here, one in each category and then

While the LCBO did release a pre-aged (circa 2006) port from

a little something extra—your job is to go out and find them

Warre’s Quinta da Cavadinha ($54.95; #189605) that was

based on your price-point and likes.

truly amazing without the need to have it sit in your cellar for

There are plenty of red wines out there I can recommend, some

Last year I did not really include things for the cocktail hour,

My top-tier selection comes from a producer in Vento, Italy,

13 years, I’m talking about some spirits I tried this year that

and I am sure you have seen their wines on LCBO shelves

really got me thinking and re-thinking my stance on whisky/

regularly: Masi. Many think they only make wine in large

whiskey. As in, I was positive I did not like the stuff, but now I

batches, but their small batch stuff is really something to

can’t totally say that with the fierce honesty I once did.

behold. They are “boutique” wines worth searching out, like

It started earlier in the year with a Dead Rabbit, the Dead

their single vineyard Amarone output: 2012 Campolongo

Rabbit Irish Whisky ($49.50; #631887) which I found smooth

di Torbe Amarone della Valpolicella Classico ($129.95;

and appealing. I was then wooed by a three-whisky tasting

#548677). Rich of fruit, great age-ability for 20-plus years or

by JP Wiser and their hockey alumni series—I found I leaned

more, always a robust selection that just makes drinking wine

more towards the Larry Robinson version ($44.95; #10568)

worthwhile … it’s one for during or even after dinner with

but there was also a Darryl Sittler and Paul Coffey each with

strong cheese or dark chocolate. This really is a bottle for

their own flavour profile. It would be nice to grab all three and

gifting to that someone special or pour to impress.

do your own tasting. Finally, there was a bottle from the east

Dropping down a step on price (never quality) I have to

coast, Signal Hill Canadian Whisky ($39.95; #572552) that I

recommend the Montes 2016 Purple Angel ($62.95; #62364).

would not trade for love or money—it was just that good. And

It’s a wine made from the long-lost grape of Bordeaux

remember, I don’t like whisky, or at least I didn’t … so that is

(Carmenere) that was found in their fields and resurrected by

saying something.

the Chileans. Not often is it made at such a high level and with

There you have it, a list of readily available gift (or get) ideas

such finesse—not all Carmenere is made of this caliber, but if

for those on your list looking for wine and spirits. You just need

you’re going to get a wine to impress from a grape that doesn’t

to decide what you’ll get to give, get to keep or … both?

always, this is your wine.

My next offering drops down in price again, quite a bit, but this year it was one of the most rewarding Napa Cabernets I tried that didn’t totally break the bank or cost both an arm WINTER 2020 LUXE MAGAZINE CANADA

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12/1/19 7:56 PM

“Mesmerizing! Reclaiming the Divinely Inspired Cultural Heritage Of China.”

—Donna Karan, creator of DKNY

Inspiring Millions Worldwide, But Banned in China How ironic it is that a traditional Chinese performance can’t be seen in China.

Shen Yun is barred from performing there by the ruling communist regime.

Come see what 1.4 billion people in China can’t see. Be enlightened.

Hamilton • Dec 30–31

FirstOntario Concert Hall

Untitled-4 1

Mississauga • Jan 8–12

Living Arts Centre

Toronto • Mar 24–29

Four Seasons Centre

“This is the finest event I’ve ever been to in my life.

I was in tears, because of the human spirit, the dignity, the power, the love, coming out of those people was astounding.”

—Jim Crill, veteran producer

ShenYun.com Presented by local Falun Dafa associations

12/2/19 12:16 AM

DON’T MISS MAUD LEWIS AT THE MCMICHAEL One of Canada’s most beloved folk artists, Maud Lewis (1903 – 1970) was famous in her lifetime for her brightly coloured paintings of rural Nova Scotia. Working from her cabin in Marshalltown, Digby County, she produced hundreds of small works. The story o er di fi t i e as o ten do inated the discussion of her art: her triumph over her physical disabilities and poverty and the harsh treatment she received at the hands of her family. This show, however, stresses the aesthetic aspect of Lewis’s achievement, looking carefully at her serial repetition of images and motifs across her career. The exhibition is made possible through loans from leading Nova Scotian private collections, and features many works never before seen in public museums.

An accompanying exhibition catalogue, features a comprehensive selection of these rarely-seen artworks from private collections.

The exhibition is open through January 5, 2020 at The McMichael Canadian Art Collection.

Shown here: Covered Bridge in Winter, Two Sleighs; early 1960s, oil on pulpboard, private collection, @ArtGalleryofNovaScotia.

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1/11/20 2:10 PM

CULTURE

Lori Mirabelli artist profile

by SHERRY SMITHER

LORI MIRABELLI is taking live art to another level. Next

there are plans to cut up Mirabelli’s abstract art and sell

year, the abstract artist is appearing on stage in a remake of

pieces to the audience.

“I was doing the Riverdale ArtWalk in the spring when

The Pulitzer Prize-winning musical by Stephen Sondheim

and James Lapine was inspired by Seurat’s pointillism

I was approached by Evan Tsitsias, Artistic Director of

painting, A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte.

Toronto’s Eclipse Theatre Company. They are doing a

The painting took Seurat more than two years to complete

revamp of the play,” says Mirabelli. “Instead of having the

as he spent much of his time sketching in the park. The

character paint, who is based on the artist Georges Seurat,

artist was widely known for the Pointillism technique,

Evan wants the painting to be more of an abstract theme

where tiny dots or strokes of colour blend together when

and he’s incorporating me into the play.”

the viewer looks at the artwork.

Mirabelli will interact with actors to feel their emotions and then translate that onto her canvas.

Sunday in the Park with George runs from March 3 to 8, 2020 at The Jam Factory, (formerly the Sheriff Jam Factory), 2 Matilda Street, Toronto. At the end of each performance,

Tsitsias knew Lori was perfect for the part. When he saw her painting, Oh Those Baby Blues, a 40-inch by 68-inch acrylic painting on canvas, he immediately recognized there was a musical quality to her work.

“I was really pleased that he caught that, because music

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEFF TURNER PHOTOS

the musical, Sunday in the Park with George.

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEFF TURNER PHOTOS

To focus on her art, she took a year-long sabbatical from her job giving her freedom to explore new mediums.

“I started playing with cold wax and oil painting. When I moved to Toronto, I barely drove my vehicle. I really got to know the downtown core. Walking everywhere you see graffiti, you see type and text and all these different kinds of textures, so that’s kind of what, On the Streets, and King and Queen are based on,” she explains. It takes the artist about two weeks to complete each piece using this method, as each thick layer requires about a day to dry.

From February 20 to 23, 2020, Mirabelli will be taking part in the Artist Project, a contemporary art fair held at Toronto’s Better Living Centre. Currently art enthusiasts can see her paintings at: Canvas Gallery, PI Fine Art, Blue Crow Gallery, Paula White Diamond Gallery, Koyman Galleries and 2gallery.

In the summer, she participated in the Rosedale Art Fair, a two-day curated exhibit and sale. “Rose who runs the show has been after me for a number of years to exhibit my work. It was a lovely time and I told her I should have listened to her prior,” she says. “I loved the area and I ABOVE Titled: Shelter Me, Medium: Acrylic on Canvas, Size: 48x60 inches BELOW Titled: I Things I Say, Medium: Acrylic on Canvas , Size: 36x48 inches

is really important to me. When I told Evan while I paint,

found the people really friendly and interested in art. For

I dance—not that I would ever want to show anyone that.

me, it’s not about people buying my art; it’s about having

He said, ‘I knew it. I knew it. You’re the one for this and

that interaction with people and the dialogue.”

please say yes,’” recalls Mirabelli.

Although this is a first for Mirabelli, she saw it as a unique opportunity for artistic growth.

That’s exactly what stood out for Mirabelli at The Toronto Outdoor Art Fair. She found a conversation she had with a woman very moving. “She asked a lot of

Since dance is a significant part of her artistic process,

questions and then said, ‘I want the large painting,’ and

she selects the genre of music to echo her mood. It could

I said, oh ok, because it happened so quickly. She shared

be Coldplay one day, The Tragically Hip the next or even

that she had gotten over cancer and she didn’t think

an upbeat song by the Buggles. Matching the music to

she was going to survive, so she was done with second-

her mood, she explores her emotions through art to

guessing. She said that art is beautiful, art speaks to me

create works like: I’m still In There, Million Pieces, and

and I want it, if it makes me happy. I thought that was

Secrets We Keep.

cool that my art is a part of that. It’s something in her

“When the right song is playing, I can sometimes enter a different state of consciousness,” she explains.

“Music allows my mind to be still while I paint. When the music plays, it helps me remove myself from the process of painting and keeps my brushstrokes loose, and full

home that she finds inspiring and it’s going to give her strength to go on.”

For more information: lorimirabelli.com; @instagram.com/lorimirabelli

of life and energy. When all these things are happening simultaneously, it stops the self-doubt from entering my mind when I’m choosing my palette, applying my brushstrokes, and creating my piece of art.”

To prepare for the play, Mirabelli is doing some practice runs. “Evan is inviting me to rehearsals and I’ll get to meet everybody and then once I know what I’m supposed to do, it’s a matter of executing,” she says. Mirabelli hails from Sault Ste. Marie where she graduated with a Bachelor of Psychology with Fine Arts credits from Laurentian University. From there she moved to Newmarket and then to Toronto to pursue her art career. “I always found Toronto to be really large and overwhelming but my career in child welfare was taking me to Toronto frequently and I had a couple of friends here, there was a connection.

In 2017, Mirabelli made the move to a downtown Toronto condo that doubles as her studio. There she hosts open house studio days, and through her website potential clients can book showings or conferences to discuss commissioned work.

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CULTURE

ARE YOU IN THE HOLIDAY MOOD YET?

by CHRIS CLAY so, you’re definitely going to want to grab tickets

tickets hard to come by south of the border, and it has turned Lin-

to see the TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA when

Manuel Miranda into a household name. The musical is the winner

the band comes to the Scotiabank Arena for a pair

of multiple Tony Awards, a Grammy Award and even the Pulitizer

of concerts on December 30. The band enjoyed a

Prize for Drama. It’s finally coming to Canada and is set to make its

massive amount of success with its album Christmas

Canadian premiere at the Ed Mirvish Theatre. It opens February 11

Eve and Other Stories, featuring the wildly popular

and continues until May 17. Tickets can be purchased by calling the

track “Christmas Eve/Sarajevo 12/24,” and they’re

box office at 416.872.1212.

bringing their sound here to Toronto. Billed as

Also making its Canadian premiere at the Ed Mirvish Theatre is

an unforgettable multi-sensory extravaganza, the

the musical ANASTASIA. Based on the film of the same name, it

band’s upcoming concerts are not to be missed by

follows young Anya who is fleeing from a ruthless Soviet officer as

fans or those who love a holiday performance filled

she embarks on an epic adventure. It runs December 3 to January 12.

with visual spectacle. Tickets can be purchased

Tickets start at $39 and can be purchased by calling 416.872.1212.

through Ticketmaster.

The Sony Centre has a new name – it’s now Meridian Hall –

If you have little ones, you will probably want to see

but a yearly Christmas tradition returns this December when the

DISNEY ON ICE when it returns to Scotiabank for a series of shows

Toronto International Ballet Theatre stages a pair of performances of

January 24 to 26. Children, and probably more than a few young-

THE NUTCRACKER on December 14. This ballet is based on the

at-heart adults, will be thrilled with the new Dream Big! show. It

classical version of The Nutcracker and will feature guest artists

features Miguel from the heartwarming movie Coco plus other

Anastasia Stashkevich and Vyacheslav Lopatin, both of whom

Disney favourites including Moana and Maui, Anna and Elsa and a

are principal dancers with the famed Bolshoi Ballet. Tickets cost

number of Disney princesses. Filled with magical moments on the

$55 to $135 and can be purchased by calling the box office at

ice and stories people love from the films, it’s promising to be a great

1.855.872.7669.

event for families. Tickets can be purchased through Ticketmaster.

For many people, Christmas just isn’t Christmas without the

CHANCE THE RAPPER brings his The Big Tour to Scotiabank on

National Ballet of Canada’s version of The Nutcracker. The ballet,

February 12. The Grammy Award-winning artist is joined by special

which is based on James Kudelka’s re-imagining of the classic

guests Lil Yachty and Taylor Bennett. Tickets can be purchased

holiday performance, runs at the Four Seasons Centre for the

through Ticketmaster.

Performing Arts from December 12 to January 4. This version is set

If you’re looking for holiday concerts, there’s a number happening

in 19th century Russia and follows brother and sister Misha and

at Roy Thomson Hall in December. The TORONTO SYMPHONY

Marie on their magical journey to see the Sugar Plum Fairy. Tickets

ORCHESTRA will be joined by talented Canadian soprano Measha

start at $45 and can be purchased through the box office by calling

Brueggergosman for its Holiday Pops concerts on December 10

416.345.9595.

through 12. The Christmas with the Salvation Army concert will be

At the Richmond Hill Centre for the Performing Arts, the Victoria

December 14 while the Toronto Children’s Chorus will present its

Ballet Company presents The Nutcracker on December 20 to 22. To

A Chorus Christmas: Celestial Celebrations show on December 15.

purchase, call the box office at 905.787.8811.

Meanwhile, those who love to raise their voice in song won’t want

Over at the Flato Markham Theatre there are lots of holiday

to miss a singalong to Handel’s Messiah on December 21, in what

shows in December including the JOHN MCDERMOTT Family

is a yearly holiday tradition for many. For more information, or to purchase tickets, call the box office at 416.872.4255.

There’s no doubt that the musical HAMILTON has been

Christmas with special guests Dala (December 13), A SWINGIN’ CHRISTMAS with the Toronto All-Star Big Band (December 22) and

Canada’s Ballet Jorgen’s presentation of The Nutcracker (December

a revelation. The modern take on American founding father

30 and 31). For tickets and more information, call the box office at

Alexander Hamilton’s life has proven to be hugely popular, with

905.305.7469.

PHOTO BY JOAN MARCUS 2018

IF

The wildly popular musical Hamilton will make its Canadian premiere at the Ed Mirvish Theatre on February 11, 2020. Here, Joseph Morales and Company, Hamilton National Tour.

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EVENTS

Brian Dalfen and LUXE Magazine Art Director Jason Kang.

LEFT TO RIGHT Mary Anne Wilson, LUXE Publisher Oriana Mantello, Tony Mantello, Paul Minich and Emily Hassay, both from the St. Kitts Tourism Authority.

Andrew and Shelley Alexanian.

LEFT TO RIGHT Raquel Brown, CEO, St. Kitts Tourism Authority; Nick Menon, Chairman, St. Kitts Tourism Authority; Oriana Mantello, LUXE Publisher; The Honourable Lindsay Grant, Minister of Tourism, St. Kitts Tourism Authority; Holly Crawford, LUXE Editor-in-Chief and Paul Minich, Marketing Consultant, Canada, St. Kitts Tourism Authority.

Justin Ryan and Colin McAllister.

Local artist Raoul Olou, live painting at the event.

Pamela Kennedy and Stephanie Blok.

Luxe Anniversary Party

LUXE MAGAZINE celebrated its One Year Anniversary with a bash at The Globe and Mail Centre in Toronto. Clients, colleagues, contributors and friends of the magazine came out for a night of cocktails and delicious bites while watching the sunset over the city.

Kiyoshi Sakurai and Albert Limshue from Powell & Bonnell.

PHOTOS BY GEORGE PIMENTEL

Anthony Ghanem from Roche Bobois, and Lili K and Lisa Giordano-Hoehn.

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Sinai Health Great Jewellery Heist

PHOTOS BY RYAN EMBERLEY

Mikaela Bisson and Shantelle Bisson.

The Honourable Elizabeth Dowdeswell, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario and Jeanne Beker.

Rosehaven Randall Celebration

ON NOVEMBER 1, Sinai Health held its ninth annual Great Jewellery Heist, presented by BMO, at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel Toronto. Event Chair Isabelle Fish curated a collection of jewellery to be auctioned, all created or donated by Canadian jewelers and collectors with a theme of health and wellness in mind. The Heist has raised over $200,000 with all proceeds going to Sinai Health System’s Bridgepoint Active Healthcare.

Joanna Rotenberg and Caroline Young.

LEFT TO RIGHT Heather Gotlieb, Justin Harris and Jessika Fink.

Louis de Melo, CEO, Sinai Health Foundation and Dr. Gary Newton, President & CEO, Sinai Health

RECENTLY, Rosehaven Homes celebrated the ceremonial opening of its luxury condo in Oakville, The Randall Residences. The design, by architect Richard Wengle, was inspired by Beaux-Arts architecture. New homeowners of the building were treated to tours of the condo’s common areas and Nova Health Club. The guests also enjoyed a performance by the Oakville Symphony Orchestra and hors d’oeuvres by Sotto Sotto, a Yorkville restaurant that opened its second location in the Randall.

LEFT TO RIGHT GeoFocus Construction Management’s Adam Altobelli, master architect Richard Wengle, Town of Oakville Mayor Rob Burton, Melrose Investments’ President Silvio Guglietti, Rosehaven Homes’ President Marco Guglietti and Riccardo Guglietti.

Some of the beautiful finis es inside t e suites at The Randall Residences.

LEFT TO RIGHT Catherine Nugent, Isabelle Fish and Margaret McCain.

Monaco Comfort & Joy Gala 2019

THE DARLING HOME FOR KIDS’ 21st annual Comfort & Joy Gala, presented by TD Bank Group, raised more thsn $190,000 to support children with life-limiting illnesses. The event’s theme, “Monaco,” was inspired by the glamour of the country, and guests experienced all its extravagance while helping fund an important cause.

The Darling Home for Kids, located in Milton, provides palliative care to children with complex medical needs.

TOP RIGHT Michelle Darling and Susan Hay. BOTTOM RIGHT Nick Podetz, TD Metro West and Craig Podrebarac, DHK Board Chair.

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COMMENT

When it’s not the most wonderful time of the year

by ANNE T. DONAHUE

AT SOME POINT in mid-November, everything changes: the

ago, my Uncle’s death loomed over us, especially when we realized

holiday decorations go up, plans for dinners and gift exchanges

he wouldn’t be coming over for dessert like he normally did.

begin, and shopping malls morph into shrines dedicated to all things merry and bright.

Then, there are the years where everything’s simply gone wrong and the holidays are just making everything feel worse. And while

For many this signals the start of the very best time of the year. You

the CDC reports that self-harm and suicide attempts don’t go up,

may thrive on sending cards, organizing secret Santa, or planning

general malaise absolutely does. Which isn’t news: I haven’t met

and plotting what to serve on Christmas Day. And to an extent, I’m

anyone who’s completely evaded the holiday blues, nor have I

right there with you. I love Christmas music, decorating my tiny

personally endured a January/February without a touch of the blahs

vintage-looking Christmas tree, and serving my family and friends

(or more). And sometimes, the arrival of Christmas—while joyous

an infinite number of shrimp rings until they beg me to please serve

and fun and an excuse to eat appetizers for dinner—is merely a

them a vegetable. Each year, I spend an inordinate amount of time

bittersweet reminder that within days it’ll be time to take down the

trying to decide which cards to send, and then I spend even longer

tree and fight the urge to spend the rest of the season curled up on

working on them because I get distracted by watching Home Alone

my couch, hibernating until spring. Sometimes, the new start of a

on repeat. At its best, Christmas is a magical reprieve from real life.

new year is a reminder of how many long, cold weeks are left before

But alternately, it’s a reminder of how hard life can be.

we can wear t-shirts again.

The holiday blues are very real, and it’s no secret that depression

But the thing is, if this has happened to me, it’s obviously

and anxiety tend to spike over the holidays. Thanks in part to

happened to people we know, love, and care about—and perhaps

everything from finances to travel woes to dealing with family

even in a deeper way. So ultimately, that awareness comes with a

(especially if your relationships are strained), emotions are charged

responsibility on our part: while we may be having the time of our

and stresses are high. Plus, for some the holidays are defined by

lives during Christmas or New Year’s Eve, it’s also up to us to break

less-than-ideal (and unrelated) life events: the first Christmas after

from the party long enough to make sure everyone we love, like

my Nana died, I cried in front of the tree with my whole family

(or even tolerate) is doing okay. Each winter, we wax poetic about

watching after I unwrapped a present she’d left for me. I was 17

mental health awareness while posting tweets with #BellLetsTalk.

then, now I’d just cry in the car like a grown-up. And a few years

So why not begin practicing what we preach today?

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