Ottawa at Home | Winter 2016

Historic industrial meets artistic modern in the heart of Ottawa's hippest neighbourhood.

Steps from an eclectic mix of galleries, boutiques and eateries, Tamarack Wellington's design pays homage to the history of Hintonburg, for an industrial loft look that's crisp, urban, and unabashedly modern.

OVER

60% SOLD! Sales Centre & Model Now Open

www.tamarackwellington.com

1140 Wellington West

OAH-COVERS-WINTER 2016.indd 1

Starting From

$298,900

• 52 Units over 6 floors in first phase • Designed by Barry J. Hobin Architects • Next to the old Grace Hospital

OTTAWA AT HOME WINTER 2016 BEFORE & AFTER OTTAWA AT HOME MEDIA INC

MOVE IN THIS SUMMER!

H O M E S D E S I G N L I V I N G S H O P P I N G F O O D

WINTER 2016

ottawaathome.ca $5.99

BEFORE & AFTER SKI CHALET LIVING ROOM KITCHEN BATHROOM

ON TREND

GLAMOROUS FAMILY ROOM NEW TRADITIONAL COLOURS OF THE YEAR WHITE ON WHITE

OTTAWA SCENE

RESTAURANT EVOLUTION

HIGH PROFILE

CHRIS PHILLIPS THE HONOURABLE KENT HEHR GARY ZED

2016-02-05 8:44 AM

THE NEW

GALLERY TOWNHOMES

BY TAMARACK FROM $279,900

I’M MOVING UP! TO 1448 SQUARE FEET OF UPGRADED TAMARACK LUXURY Private garage, spacious balcony, 6 appliances, and air conditioning – all included! * a month.

It's all mine for under $

1200

*principal and interest payment based on 10% down and a 2.59% 5 yr. xed mortgage rate.

Located in the Heart of Hintonberg

IMMOVINGOUT.CA www.hubertsfireplaces.com | 101 Pinhey St. Ottawa | 613-728-3786

OAH-COVERS-WINTER 2016.indd 2

2016-02-04 3:34 PM

WINTER 2016 ottawaathome.ca 1

OTT-AD-2728-OTT HOME AD_JAN2016-8.3125x10.6875-3.indd 1 OAH_WINTER 2016AT PAGES.indd 1

2016-01-22 2016-02-04 1:55 3:36 PM PM

Winter 2016

59

COVER PHOTO BY MARK HOLLERON

4 EDITOR’S NOTE Evolution 6 MARY’S MUST-HAVES

Pink and blue

> HOME 12 DESIGNER AT HOME

Tania Kratt shares her passion for reclaimed treasures

18 RENOVATION

A Mont Ste-Marie chalet gets an update to suit a family of four and the après-ski lifestyle

24 CAPITAL COLOURS

Playing with winter whites

26 RENOVATION PERSPECTIVE

A real estate couple shares their

home-buying and renovation experience

30 BEFORE & AFTER KITCHEN

A dowdy kitchen gets a makeover with stunning results

34 BEFORE & AFTER LIVING ROOM

40

51

Making the most of a small space to create a stylish living room

36 GET THE LOOK

Bringing luxury into the family room to create a “glamily room!”

2 ottawaathome.ca WINTER 2016

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 2

2016-02-05 8:49 AM

39 STYLE DEFINED

Understanding New Traditional in décor

64 END NOTE

The ethereal beauty of Rose Quartz and Serenity

> LIVING 40 BEAUTY

Capturing beauty within a bathroom makeover

12

42 PROFILE

The Honourable Kent Hehr’s

inspiring story of the drive-by

shooting that changed his life’s direction

44 STEP INSIDE

Ottawa Senators Chris Phillips’s face-off against his life challenges

47 NEW & NOTABLE

Art, beer, a trendy tote and hip shopping with entertainment space that are all worth a second look

48 LIVING MY WAY

Andrea Douglas shares her personal experience with the after-effects of a cancer diagnosis

24

51 STREET STYLE

Winter fashion in the capital

52 LIVING INSTYLE

A personal stylist makes a career comeback

53 GIVING BACK

Gary Zed is one of Ottawa’s

most genuine and fun-loving philanthropists

56 LET’S DISH

Meet some of the capital’s most respected foodies and get their perspective on the evolution of the food scene in Ottawa

59 DINING OUT

> FOOD

54 FOOD THOUGHTS

63 PAULA’S BITES

French onion soup gets even more decadently delicious

Check out some of Ottawa’s most long-standing food establishments Paula Roy gives an old family favourite a remake

44 WINTER 2016 ottawaathome.ca 3

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 3

2016-02-05 8:46 AM

EDITOR’S NOTE

“Change brings opportunity.”

— NIDO QUBEIN, MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKER

OPPORTUNITY AWAITS Our winter issue brings exciting changes for Ottawa At Home. We are now being published by a new media company, Ottawa At Home Media Inc. As the new owner of this business, I am incorporating changes that put the magazine in a position of distinction within the exhilarating world of media. I am a firm believer in doing what you love and finding success through dedicating passion to your craft.

I have been a magazine junkie since the age of 13 when I received my first issue of Seventeen magazine, and have long since been a collector and coveter of glossy print publications. To say that I’m thrilled to now own a publication with which I’ve been involved for more than seven years is an understatement.

The timing of our Before & After issue is a coincidence, but the theme certainly jives with what is happening behind the scenes at Ottawa At Home. While I believe in change, I know that change for the sake of difference is not necessarily a good thing.

Change as a way of evolving, however, is a great thing and I like to think we are evolving!

My life has been in constant evolution, and over the past 10 years, Ottawa At Home has played a key role. My first introduction to the magazine was with a cover feature in 2005. It motivated me to think about working harder on my career as a décor and lifestyle expert. Through the years, I have evolved to become a more authentic version of myself as I eased out of raising my four children focusing more closely on my career. Our Living In Style feature has a similar theme of reinvention, but our subject has a different story. You

facebook.com/OttawaAtHome

can learn more about how she juggles a career and a young child at the age of 52 inside on page 52.

We have a variety of other inspirational stories we would like to share with you, starting with the Minister of Veterans Affairs, Kent Hehr, who faced a monumental life change when he was a victim of a drive-by shooting that left him paralyzed on page 42. Ottawa Senators player Chris Phillips divulges his challenging past before becoming an NHL star, and the experience of cancer survivor Andrea Douglas sheds light on the after-life of this life-changing diagnosis on page 48.

Change will often bring growing

twitter.com/Ottawaathomemag

pains and Ottawa At Home is wellpositioned to weather them. Most importantly, as a team, we are excited for the evolution of the Capital Region’s premier lifestyle and décor magazine.

May you enjoy taking the journey with us and please let us know if you like what you see!

Moving forward,

ottawaathome.ca

instagram.com/maryktaggart

instagram.com/ottawaathomemag

4 ottawaathome.ca WINTER 2016

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 4

2016-02-04 3:37 PM

The next generation of the SUV 2016 GLC300 4matic Starting at at $44,950

Š 2016 Mercedes-Benz Canada Inc.

OGILVIE MERCEDES-BENZ Member of Mierins Automotive Group

Follow us

Ogilvie Motors Ltd. - 1110 St Laurent Blvd, Ottawa - 1 844 243-0781 - ogilvie.mercedes-benz.ca WINTER 2016 ottawaathome.ca 5

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 5

2016-02-04 3:37 PM

Big changes in the world of décor were established with not one, but two hues selected as Pantone’s colours of the year for 2016. Rose Quartz and Serenity dominate the style scene, bringing in a calming influence.

Voluspa Vermeil – Casa Pacifica Corta Maison candle with embossed lid. NORDSTROM, $35.

MARY’S MUSTHAVES Sephora + Pantone Universe Color of the Year matte lipstick.

Le Creuset Tea for One in Bonbon, $40

The Allure toss cushion in dusk,

SEPHORA, $23

FROM URBAN BARN, $42

The ultimate “It bag” for Spring 2016 is the Chloé Drew bag, shown here in Cement Pink. NORDSTROM, $2,130

Artist Neil Young’s mixed-media Crimson Winter pieces. KOYMAN GALLERIES, $395

6 ottawaathome.ca WINTER 2016

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 6

2016-02-04 3:37 PM

WINTER 2016 ottawaathome.ca 7

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 7

2016-02-04 3:37 PM

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Mary Taggart CREATIVE DIRECTOR Tanya Connolly-Holmes ASSOCIATE EDITOR Jane Whiting PHOTO EDITOR Mark Holleron FOOD EDITOR Paula Roy FOOD CONTRIBUTOR Korey Kealey STYLE/BEAUTY CONTRIBUTOR Melissa Shabinsky CONTRIBUTORS Catherine Clark, Vera Cody, Sandy Connell, Andrea Douglas, Andrew Downward, Katie Hession, Alexia Naidoo, Greg Teckles COPY EDITOR Krystle Kung WEB EDITOR Olivia Taggart ADVERTISING Jennifer Tackaberry PRODUCTION Celine Paquette, Regan Van Dusen ADMINISTRATION Patti Moran FINANCE MANAGER Danial Taggart PUBLISHER Mary Taggart FOUNDING PUBLISHER Caroline Andrews PUBLISHED BY Ottawa At Home Media Inc. CONTACT US General inquiries: editor@ottawaathome.ca ADVERTISING advertising@ottawaathome.ca SUBSCRIPTIONS admin@ottawaathome.ca CIRCULATION 30,000 copies printed 5 times per year 5-issue subscription $25.00

media inc

Contents © 2016. Reproduction of advertisements or articles appearing in Ottawa at Home, in whole or in part, is forbidden without the written permission of the publisher. Ottawa at Home and Ottwa At Home Media Inc. shall not be liable for slight changes or typographical errors that do not lessen the value of an advertisement.

The publisher’s liability for other errors or omissions in connection with any advertisement is strictly limited to publication of the advertisement in any subsequent issue or the refund of any monies paid for the advertisement.

8 ottawaathome.ca WINTER 2016

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 8

2016-02-04 3:37 PM

Elite BMW Ottawa

The Ultimate Driving Experience.

THE EXIT STRATEGIST.

FREEDOM IN ITS MOST BEAUTIFUL FORM. THE ALL NEW 2016 BMW X1 XDRIVE

STARTING PRICE $41,150*

*Price includes Freight, Pre-Delivery Inspection, Administration Fee and OMVIC. Price plus applicable taxes.

OPENING 2016

ELITE BMW AUTOMOBILE

LIKE US ON facebook.com/elitebmwottawa

1020 Ogilvie Rd, Ottawa, ON, K1J8G9 - 1 844 243-0782 - elitebmw.com WINTER 2016 ottawaathome.ca 9

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 9

2016-02-04 3:37 PM

CONTRIBUTORS

TANYA CONNOLLY-HOLMES CREATIVE DIRECTOR

JANE WHITING ASSOCIATE EDITOR

MARK HOLLERON PHOTO EDITOR

“Ever since I first noticed magazines as a teenager, I have always been seduced by the idea of living better, being creative and working ttowards a brighter future. I am very fortunate to share my ideas and creativity with a talented, witty and energetic team.”

Follow on Twitter @tanyalovesart

“I really enjoy being able to visit so many fabulous homes in Ottawa. They all showcase such a variety of amazing designs and styles.”

“Shooting for Ottawa At Home allows me the opportunity to get behind the scenes in a variety of areas throughout the capital, capturing people, places and experiences that diversify my skills as a photographer.”

PAULA ROY FOOD EDITOR “My favourite thing about researching and writing stories for Ottawa At Home is the chance to discover the many talented, innovative people that make Ottawa’s food scene so vibrant. I hope that readers are inspired to support the hardworking farmers, chefs and food producers we feature.”

Follow on Twitter @paulajroy MELISSA SHABINSKY BEAUTY CONTRIBUTOR I love that I am able to share all things green and glam, from the latest beauty products to bringing beauty into your home.

Follow on Twitter @melshabinsky

KOREY KEALEY FOOD THOUGHTS CONTRIBUTOR “I love the creative outlet the column allows me. We establish a theme and then I imagine what would suit it and the creative juices flow! It’s a foodie playground.”

Follow on Twitter @foodthought

OLIVIA TAGGART WEB EDITOR “I love that I can step outside of my regular workday to get to know what’s happening in Ottawa and share it with ottawaathome.ca in my #MyOttawa web feature. I also like using my knack for the web and social media to keep readers up to date with fresh online content.” Follow on Twitter @livtaggart

CATHERINE CLARK GIVING BACK CONTRIBUTOR “I feel so fortunate to write the Giving Back column. This city is full of remarkable, caring people who work tirelessly to make Ottawa a better place, and it’s a true joy to share their stories.” Follow on Twitter @catherinejclark JENNIFER TACKABERRY VP OF SALES “Meeting clients inspires me every day. To work with the people in Ottawa and share their business stories and highlight the work they do is exciting and one of my favourite perks of working with Ottawa At Home”.

Follow on Twitter @JenTackaberry

10 ottawaathome.ca WINTER 2016

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 10

2016-02-05 9:02 AM

FOR HOME

IS YOUR FURNACE OLD ENOUGH TO REMEMBER WHEN THESE WERE HIGH TECH? Maybe it’s time to replace it with an energy efficient model. Upgrade and get $250 with the Hydro Ottawa Heating & Cooling Incentive.

See what the future of home comfort looks like hydroottawa.com/NewFurnace

Subject to additional terms and conditions found at saveONenergy.ca saveONenergy is powered by the Independent Electricity System Operator and brought to you by Hydro Ottawa.

OM Official Mark of the Independent Electricity System Operator. Used under licence.

WINTER 2016 ottawaathome.ca 11

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 11

2016-02-04 3:37 PM

HOMES Designer At Home

REUSE, RECLAIM, RECYCLE, RELAX

BY MARY TAGGART PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK HOLLERON

12 ottawaathome.ca WINTER 2016

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 12

2016-02-04 3:37 PM

PIECES OF INTEREST FACING PAGE: LIBRARY-STYLE DOORS WERE A MERRICKVILLE FIND AND REPLACED BASIC BUILDER’S BIFOLD DOORS IN THE ENTRYWAY. THIS PAGE: TANIA IN HER FOYER SURROUNDED BY COLLECTED TREASURES INCLUDING HER FATHER-IN-LAW’S APOTHECARY CABINET. WINTER 2016 ottawaathome.ca 13

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 13

2016-02-04 3:37 PM

14 ottawaathome.ca WINTER 2016

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 14

2016-02-04 3:37 PM

“Projects I like the best are ones where clients are willing to be a little more adventurous, be conscious of the environment, open to using reclaimed or vintage materials, and willing to push boundaries a little.”

For designer Tania Kratt, being environmentally conscious with her design projects is more than just a conscientious philosophy. It embodies her personal style and has influenced the choices her family makes as well.

Her young children recognize that by choosing recycled materials they may also be saving a tree. Their bedroom closet doors were replaced with aged doors to execute a vintage look. Throughout the home, Tania has incorporated family heirlooms and treasured finds from world travels to create an environment that feels lived in, yet maintains an impressive design style that falls into a mid-century modern look with hints of rustic.

The home that Tania shares with her husband Chris and their two boys in Stittsville showcases many elements of reuse and reclaim, starting with the front entryway. Old-world, library-style doors found in Merrickville replaced classic new-home construction bifolds on the front hall closet. An old apothecary-style cabinet that once housed parts in her father-in-law’s New Jersey harmonica factor helps to also set

COLLECTIONS THIS PAGE: BELL JARS DISPLAY VINTAGE FINDS FROM THE KRATTS’ TRAVELS WHILE KEEPING SHELVING CLUTTER-FREE; INTERESTING BOOKS SHOW PERSONALITY WHEN PLACED ON DISPLAY. FACING PAGE: WHITE SOFA FROM THE WHITE MONKEY, CUSTOM-DESIGNED LIGHT FIXTURE FROM PARK STUDIO IN LOS ANGELES WINTER 2016 ottawaathome.ca 15

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 15

2016-02-04 3:37 PM

ICONIC THIS PAGE: MUDROOM LOCKER FROM TANIA’S FATHER-IN-LAW’S HARMONICA AND PITCH PIPE FACTORY IN UNION, NJ. THE WM. KRATT CO. FACING PAGE: THE BUTTERFLY CHAIR IS A MIDCENTURY MODERN FIND FROM VANIER MODERNS.

“I see iconic furniture as art – and love to inject it into my designs and home.”

—

TANIA KRATT, DESIGNER

the tone for a home with global and vintage inspirations.

Moving from Vermont to Ottawa seven years ago, the family was drawn to the country-like setting and community of Stittsville. Tania divides her time between Stittsville and Vermont, commuting twice a month for work in the Green Mountain State. Her work in Vermont has included designing the new headquarters for Eating Well magazine, and PLATE restaurant, as well as a local coffee shop and a host of new construction and renovation projects.

Tania studied urban planning at Concordia University, then interior architecture and design in Montreal.

She has worked on numerous design projects across Canada and throughout the United States, often relying on Skype and e-mail to communicate with clients. Her award-winning work is meticulous, with an adventuresome touch thrown in for intrigue.

“Projects I like the best are ones where clients are willing to be a little more adventurous, be conscious of the environment, open to using reclaimed or vintage materials, and willing to push boundaries a little,” she says.

Tania’s own home pushes some boundaries in a variety of ways.

Opting for white furnishings is not a choice that most parents with two young boys would make, but Tania maintains a need for beauty and function within her décor. The family refuses to succumb to an offlimits approach to their home and the result is a comfortable, lived-in, eco-conscious style that embraces buying what you love, living in it and enjoying it!

16 ottawaathome.ca WINTER 2016

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 16

2016-02-04 3:38 PM

WINTER 2016 ottawaathome.ca 17

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 17

2016-02-04 3:38 PM

HOMES Renovation

THE APRĂˆS EFFECT

BY JANE WHITING PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK HOLLERON

The family that skis together often forms a shared passion for a sport that they can enjoy for years and years. This is true for generations of local families who spent their wintry youth on the ski hill and return to the slopes again with their own children. For one Ottawa couple with two young children and more than 20 years of family history at Mont Ste-Marie, it has transitioned into buying their own chalet at the Quebec ski resort.

TRIED & TRUE Renting before you buy is a tried-andtrue route to owning an alpine property.

It allowed the new owners to experience the ski hill lifestyle with their own kids and get a real understanding of what their housing needs were. After many years of renting ski chalets, a special one came up

BEFORE: THE LIVING ROOM

18 ottawaathome.ca WINTER 2016

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 18

2016-02-04 3:38 PM

STYLISH COMFORT LIVING ROOM FURNITURE FROM MYHOME FURNITURE AND NEWBURY INTERIORS; DINING AREA CHANDELIER FROM MARCHAND; FLOORING FROM LOGS END.

WINTER 2016 ottawaathome.ca 19

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 19

2016-02-04 3:38 PM

WOOD & WHITE FACING PAGE: THE DINING TABLE GETS A DOSE OF THE UNEXPECTED WITH AN ASSORTED MIX OF COUNTRY-STYLE CHAIRS. THIS PAGE: OPEN SHELVING SHOWS OFF DISHES FROM HOMESENSE; THE ALL-WHITE KITCHEN IS FROM MUSKOKA CABINET COMPANY.

20 ottawaathome.ca WINTER 2016

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 20

2016-02-04 3:38 PM

for sale but not for rent, so it forced them to bite the bullet and buy. However, they did so with the confidence of knowing that it was the right chalet for them and they loved it.

The original ski chalet was built in 1972, and the previous owners expanded the well-kept property to add a master bedroom on the main level and a family room in the finished basement, and to create a big attic space. This made it a spacious five-bedroom home in excellent condition, but it needed a few changes and a full update for the young family to have their own perfect ski chalet.

To rejuvenate the home with a distinctive alpine style, the owners turned to general contractor Luc Simard whom they’ve used before and describe as very diligent, conscientious and a dream to work with. Together with his brother Roch Simard, he implemented the couple’s ideas to open up the living space and make it brighter with better sight lines, renovate the large kitchen and three bathrooms, as well as turn the attic space into a playroom for the kids.

RENEWING & REJUVENATING “It was a complete overhaul as we had a hand in every nook and cranny,” says Luc, explaining the extensive yet mostly cosmetic renovations. The main layout change was to take out a portion of the kitchen wall that was housing a broom closet to open the area up into the combined dining and living room, as well as turn the wooden staircase into a

BEFORE: THE KITCHEN WINTER 2016 ottawaathome.ca 21

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 21

2016-02-04 3:38 PM

SLEEP, BATHE, PLAY THIS PAGE: THE ANTIQUE CARRIAGE WAS PASSED DOWN FROM THE HOMEOWNER’S MOTHER TO HER GRANDDAUGHTER. FACING PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: THE BATHROOMS CARRY A NEUTRAL WOODSY COLOUR SCHEME TO SUIT THE CHALET SPACE; PLAYROOM FURNITURE IS FROM IKEA.

22 ottawaathome.ca SPRING 2015

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 22

2016-02-04 3:38 PM

visual feature. The Muskoka Cabinet Company designed the large functional kitchen space, replacing the pine with clean white cabinetry and all-new appliances.

“They kept the wooden chalet feel with its pine panelling and beams.

But to lighten and brighten it up, we painted the ceilings in a white chalk paint that allowed the beauty of the wood to come through – and it did a wonderful job,” says Luc. In addition to replacing the old flooring with aged wide-plank wood

by Logs End, Luc gutted rooms, installed new vanities in each of the three bathrooms and retiled the showers. A new mantel with whitewood moulding surrounds the brick fireplace to ramp up the traditional style in the living room.

The unfinished attic with ladder access was transformed into a playroom with a full staircase.

Exposing the collar ties and the chimney brick in the roof, along with adding more structural beams painted in white chalk, infused extra character into the attic.

The master bedroom was renewed mainly by removing an enormous mirror-fronted closet to create more space and highlight the charm of wood-panelled accent walls. Redefining the character of the home was effectively achieved on the exterior with new stucco and by attaching decorative wood shutters painted in the in the same shade of brown as neighbouring chalets.

“The shutters made a big difference to the look of the chalet and it’s something that people really notice,” adds Luc. “The owners came up with all the ideas and made the decisions themselves. My brother and I were just happy to put everything together for them and it looks gorgeous.”

With their perfect ski chalet to enjoy for many winters to come, the parents can continue the long-held tradition of their kids growing up on the ski hill with a host of cousins and friends. It’s a rejuvenation of the home and a lifestyle with full-on family fun.

“They kept the wooden chalet feel with its pine panelling and beams. But to lighten and brighten it up, we painted the ceilings in a white chalk paint that allowed the beauty of the wood to come through – and it did a wonderful job.”

—

LUC SIMARD, GENERAL CONTRACTOR

WINTER 2016 ottawaathome.ca 23

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 23

2016-02-04 3:38 PM

IT’S WHAT’S ON THE

SURFACE THAT COUNTS. Especially when what’s on the surface is Emerald ® paint

© 2015 The Sherwin-Williams Company

by Sherwin-Williams. The best dressed homes wear Emerald.

sherwin-williams.ca 24 ottawaathome.ca WINTER 2016

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 24

2016-02-04 3:38 PM

HOME Capital Colours

GO-TO FAVOURITES ABOVE, CLOCKWISE: BENJAMIN MOORE CLOUD WHITE, SHERWIN-WILLIAMS OYSTER WHITE, FARROW & BALL DROP CLOTH THIS PAGE, LEFT: WALL PAINTED IN FARROW & BALL DROP CLOTH

WINTER WHITE & WARM NEUTRALS

BY ANDREW DOWNWARD

@ANDREWDOWNWARD IMAGES SUPPLIED

Amidst the usual crowds and hullabaloo at the Ottawa Fall Home Show last September, I had the opportunity to speak with Ottawa At Home editor Mary Taggart. It wasn’t long before we dived into one of our favourite topics – major trends in colour and wallpaper. It was a rare moment for us.

Most of our previous conversations have taken place on a stage, via email, or more commonly, in passing as we dashed from one place to another at a home and garden show.

We all seem to live such busy and

complicated lives, so finding actual face-toface time has become a rarity, if not nonexistent. Perhaps our increasingly complex society is the impetus for the colour trend that now dominates the marketplace: white, or more specifically, all things white!

What exactly is white? Some argue that it is not even a colour. But looking through a colour deck, a magazine or glancing outside, it seems as though the colour white has many vibrant personalities and moods. It can be warm or cool, soft or sharp or crisp and clean. Indeed, no other colour that I know of garners more passionate debate or response than the multiple shades of white.

White is the original neutral and its many shades and tones can tie all things together and make it work. White paint is an

exceptional way to freshen up a room and provide a calm and pleasing canvas for bold works of art, antiques or furniture. Use whites in your bedroom to highlight the simple beauty of classic white linens.

A coat of white paint can transform something old into something new and can breathe new life into moulding, wainscoting or furniture. Using whites in either warm or cool tones can provide a simple way to renew any room. To add depth to a white room, apply two different sheens or tones of white. For instance, apply a flat white to the wall that receives the most light and a satin finish to the remaining walls. Sheen and tone variances will create a calm, peaceful environment without the room feeling cold or sterile.

Other than for traditional use as a ceiling and trim paint, I had never painted a room white until recently. Now, I am starting to use white as a dominant theme at home and just applied a coat to my living room.

The room was immediately transformed and remarkably bright, so I decided to paint the wall that received direct sunlight in a flat white to calm things down quite a bit. I was struck by how all the artwork “popped” and it made the ornate detail on antique furniture stand out.

If you are ready to try using white on your own walls, take advantage of the broad and diversified selection of white paints available.

WINTER 2016 ottawaathome.ca 25

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 25

2016-02-04 3:38 PM

HOME Renovation Perspective

UPSTAIRS & DOWNSTAIRS INVESTMENT

BY JANE WHITING PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK HOLLERON

As an award-winning team with Royal LePage, Jeff and Kathy McVeigh have shared many years together selling real estate in the Ottawa area. So when it came to buying a property that could accommodate a self-contained rental apartment, their professional experience was a big asset – even more so since that property would be their own home and would need renovating from top to bottom.

After raising three children in a large family home in the suburbs of Findlay Creek, it was time to for the couple to downsize and move in closer to their city office. The husband-and-wife duo already owned some rental properties, but were looking to invest in a home that was perfect for them, as well as meeting requirements to include a basement apartment that would appeal to suitable tenants.

OPEN CONCEPT THIS PAGE: KATHY AND JEFF; SQUARE EDGE DINING TABLE AND BENCH, ARTEMANO, DINING ROOM BUFFET CABINET FROM IKEA. FACING PAGE: IKEA KITCHEN AND BARSTOOLS; ARTEMANO END CHAIR AND WALL ART FROM SHEPHERD’S AT TRAIN YARDS.

INVESTING DOWNSTAIRS As experienced property investors, the McVeighs knew the type of home they wanted and the ideal location. They were well-acquainted with the Billings Bridge/ Heron Park area, which is close to Carleton University and colleges that have steady accommodation needs. Kathy describes the neighbourhood as, “full of large two-storeyed, semi-detached and bungalows on big lots.”

BEFORE: THE KITCHEN

26 ottawaathome.ca WINTER 2016

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 26

2016-02-04 3:38 PM

“We really recreated what we had in Findlay Creek where we lived mostly in the kitchen, eating area and family room.” — KATHY MCVEIGH, REALTOR, ROYAL LEPAGE

Here, on a relatively quiet street close to the park, they bought a three-bedroom, twostorey semi with a full basement.

“It’s a very desirable type of property for investors – a well-built, square-shaped brick home that is easy to duplex. And typical of homes built in the '50s and '60s, it has a side door that allows separate entry to the basement unit,” says Kathy who emphasizes the importance of complying with all building regulations and city bylaws in constructing a secondary dwelling in your home. These cover topics such as fire and safety issues, separate entry requirements, sound-proofing, utilities and more.

In addition to the structural and legal aspects of owning a rental unit, Kathy also notes that they were careful to address any concerns in the neighbourhood. “As it has a well-established and strong community, Jeff wanted to get involved to let people know that we are responsible neighbours and landlords. We recognize the importance of tenant selection for them and us, especially when you have people living below you.” She adds that thorough vetting is essential, as well as talking honestly about your lifestyle.

“For instance, we like to entertain on the weekends, and everyone has to understand there will always be some sound transfer – it cannot be eliminated completely.”

Currently, they have an approved tenant they know very well. Their 25-year-old WINTER 2016 ottawaathome.ca 27

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 27

2016-02-04 3:38 PM

daughter recently returned to Ottawa after living in Toronto, and is enjoying the large basement apartment that has a brand new kitchen in an openconcept living area with a separate bedroom, bathroom and laundry.

Intergenerational living at its best!

OTTAWA SHOWROOM 2287 Gladwin Crescent

(613) 738-2423

kitchencraftottawa.ca

INVESTING UPSTAIRS With the professional design and construction expenses associated with installing the apartment, the McVeighs wanted to minimize the cost of renovating their home spaces without compromising comfort and style. A handy guy himself, Jeff acted as the general contractor for the project, which involved extensive gutting to remove walls, all old cabinetry, vanities and appliances, along with funky flooring and wild tiling patterns.

“We opened everything up on the main floor, so there is no front hall and you walk straight into the living room,” says Kathy. “It gives us more usable space, and we really recreated what we had in Findlay Creek where we lived mostly in the kitchen, eating area and family room.”

The kitchen was renovated with sleek white Ikea cabinetry and a big new breakfast bar. It combines with the dining area, which includes a must-have feature for Kathy – a stylish built-in buffet with upper cabinets, again by Ikea All flooring was replaced with hardwood, and the two full bathrooms were beautifully renovated with a stacked laundry added to the second floor.

One of the benefits of being realtors and viewing thousands of place is that the McVeighs can usually see the bare bones of a home through old or bad renovations and ugly decorating choices. “I don’t even care if a home is dirty,” laughs Kathy. “I look for a good solid building with a great street location – and it’s a bonus if the roof and windows are in good condition.”

While living through the long renovating process was hard for Kathy, she reports that they are both pleased with their wonderful new spaces and centrally located neighbourhood. “I love being 10 minutes to everywhere – it’s just great!”

28 ottawaathome.ca WINTER 2016

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 28

2016-02-04 3:38 PM

Presented by

Gala

Produced by

April 21, 2016 // SHAW CENTRE

Join in the Celebration of Ottawa’s Business Woman of the Year.

Nine Finalists. Three Recipients. All deserving

Finalists reception March 1, 2016 at The Art Bank

5:30 Cocktails 6:30 Dinner & Awards

Members: $150 // $1200 Corporate Table of 8

Guests: $185 // $1480 Corporate Table of 8

For more information & registration: thebyas.ca

TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

Honourary Chair: Ms. Clare Beckton Executive Director Centre for Women in Politics and Public Leadership, Carleton University MCs Carter & Sandra from the New 105.3 KISS FM Special thanks to our sponsors!

WINTER 2016 ottawaathome.ca 29

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 29

2016-02-05 9:04 AM

HOME Before & After Kitchen

POTENTIAL REACHED THIS PAGE, CLOCKWISE: THE KITCHEN ISLAND WAS ENLARGED TO UTILIZE THE SPACE TO ITS MAXIMUM POTENTIAL; A BUILT-IN BAR FITS IN WITH THE CURRYS’ ENTERTAINING STYLE; PULLOUT SPICE RACK USES EMPTY SPACE NEXT TO THE STOVE; NOT ONE BUT TWO APPLIANCE GARAGES WERE ON KELLY’S WISH LIST AND THE AMPLE SPACE ALLOWED FOR THIS.

BEFORE: THE KITCHEN

COME TOGETHER

BY MARY TAGGART PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK HOLLERON

A Stonebridge home has had a dramatic kitchen makeover thanks to designer Karen Chadwick. She worked with the homeowners and kitchen contractor to create a winning design with lots of bells and whistles in an elegant space that complements the lifestyle of a busy family of four.

30 ottawaathome.ca WINTER 2016

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 30

2016-02-04 3:39 PM

BIG WINNERS! The Curry family won the completely furnished and decorated home 14 years ago in the Ottawa Hospital lottery. Kelly Curry says she loved it all, even though she had never chosen any of it. But when it came to updating the home and making changes, Kelly who claims she is not the most self-assured decorator, turned to Karen for help. “I’m not very confident when it comes to making decorating decisions, so I called Karen. She drew up some plans and mood boards, which got me started.”

TEAM EFFORT The entire renovation came together with all parties involved in the process, after Kelly interviewed several kitchen contractors. Corey Roth from Corell Custom Cabinetry was “by far the winner,” offers Kelly. “He was very confident about what would work and what wouldn’t work in our space. He also had some great ideas that complemented Karen’s plans.”

Wanting to keep costs down, the Currys stayed with the basic layout and maintained the existing plumbing and electrical locations.

But Corey thought the existing space wasn’t being used to its maximum potential. “I felt the original island was a bit small for the space, so we added some dimension to the new one,” he says.

While Karen came up with the overall design elements to create an elegant kitchen within a comfortable space, Kelly did most of the legwork to source appliances and some of the decorative aspects, such as the island stools and lighting. Karen’s clever design choices, combined with Corey’s expertise, resulted in more creative storage spaces. Kelly loves the deep drawers and the extra storage the bonus space offers, along with not one, but two appliance garages. Narrow spice pullouts next to the stove utilize the space to its full potential, which is a spatial theme throughout.

LIVING THE LIFE The kitchen sits in a prominent location at the heart of the home, and contains a large eating area that extends to the family room, with the entire space overlooking a stunning backyard with a pool area. As the family likes to entertain, a slick built-in bar area that includes a beverage fridge, oversized island and creative storage options are new elements that fit in with their lifestyle. It’s now a winning design that incorporates the updated choices that today’s homeowners are making.

O N E N I G H T O N LY !

LIMITED TICKETS AVAILABLE

APRIL 14, 2016 NATIONAL ARTS CENTRE

VIP GALA TICKETS CORPORATE VIP PACKAGE: $2,650

(10 TICKETS – $2,750 VALUE)

LIMITED TICKETS AVAILABLE

GET YOUR TICKETS TODAY! VISIT BRUYERE.ORG/BROADWAY CALL 613-562-6319 EMAIL: BROADWAY@BRUYERE.ORG

INDIVIDUAL VIP TICKETS: $275 CORPORATE PACKAGE: $1,650

(10 TICKETS – $1,750 VALUE)

INDIVIDUAL TICKETS: $175

A SHOW OF SUPPORT PROCEEDS

WILL

SUPPORT

FAC E B O O K . C O M / B R O A D WAY B R U Y E R E

PATIENT

CARE

AND

RESEARCH

AT

BRUYÈRE

@B R O A D WAY B R U Y E R E

WINTER 2016 ottawaathome.ca 31

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 31

2016-02-04 3:39 PM

$ 1365

$ 365

$ 1675

32 ottawaathome.ca WINTER 2016

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 32

2016-02-04 3:39 PM

INTERIORS

"Easy on the Eyes" shop the room 1280 old innes rd.

cadieuxinteriors.ca

$ 655

KING $ 2695 QUEEN $ 2315 WINTER 2016 ottawaathome.ca 33

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 33

2016-02-04 3:39 PM

HOME Before & After Living Room

BOLD & BEAUTIFUL FURNISHINGS FROM DECORATING DEN INTERIORS FIT THE SPACE PERFECTLY, CREATING A STRIKING LOOK FOR THE CLIENT WHO WAS LOOKING FOR SOMETHING UNIQUE.

A FRESH START

BY MARY TAGGART PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK HOLLERON

Working with an empty space to transform it into a functional and eye-pleasing room might sound like a decorator’s dream. But there are always challenges, as Catherine Pulcine, who is the principal designer with Decorating Den Interiors – The CPI Team, discovered. She was confronted with the task of creating a contemporary-style living room, designed for entertaining, with the ability to comfortably seat six in a brand new home.

The clients were completely changing their traditional design style and wanted a fresh new look.

The space was bright and open, but not necessarily large enough to incorporate vast seating arrangements. The clients chose a white, red and black colour scheme and

requested that a certain piece of artwork be placed above the fireplace.

CHALLENGES AND RESTRICTIONS: • The client wanted a contemporary style that still maintained the warm and cozy feeling of traditional décor.

• Limited space within an open concept posed a furniture arrangement challenge.

• Supplied artwork played a dominant role in the overall feeling of the décor.

• The client established the red and black colour scheme.

• A staircase leading to the lower level encroached on the living space.

THE RESULTS: • Catherine used the artwork as inspiration for the overall look of the space, while cleverly arranging smallscale loveseats and armless chairs to create plenty of seating without

BEFORE: THE LIVING ROOM

•

•

•

•

overwhelming the area.

Placing a sofa against the stair railing allowed the awkward feature to function as wall space.

Small amounts of red and black were introduced to a white backdrop to add the right amount of colour and create a warm feeling within the cool, contemporary style.

Enhancing the fireplace wall with red drawn from the artwork permitted the piece to blend into the décor.

Mixing metals also added warmth while honouring the modern approach to the décor.

34 ottawaathome.ca WINTER 2016

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 34

2016-02-04 3:39 PM

NEW LOOK!

OTTAWAATHOME.CA Beyond the printed page ottawaathome.ca shows more of what you covet from the print edition.

Bonus images- recipes-video-blogs The newly enhanced ottawaathome.ca website inspires with a brand new look Keep up-to-date with local happenings and inspirations from Ottawa’s style, food and dÊcor scene with an enhanced website Stay inspired on your computer and smart devices

WINTER 2016 ottawaathome.ca 35

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 35

2016-02-04 3:39 PM

HOMES Get the Look

The Glamily Room While some might think of family room space as less than glamorous, there is a trend moving onto the decorating landscape that calls for martinis at the ready with crystal chandeliers dimmed to suit adult use. The sophisticated family room pushes child spaces to the basement to keep the main floor prepared for entertaining in style.

ROOM DESIGNED BY SONYA KINKADE FOR TAMARACK HOMES PHOTOGRAPHY MARK HOLLERON PRODUCED BY TANYA CONNOLLY-HOLMES

Have an affair with luxury with the seductive Envy Chaise, KOKET, BYKOKET. COM; ground the room with a 5’x 8’ Corfu rug, EQ3, $299; the ribbed cocktail shaker from Cuisinox adds just the right dose of style, HALF FULL GLASSWARE & ACCESSORIES, $19.95.

36 ottawaathome.ca WINTER 2016

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 36

2016-02-04 3:39 PM

ABOVE: CHAISE LONGUE, AVAILABLE FROM LÛXE HOME INTERIORS.

A swanky portable bar cart does double duty as a side table, CADIEUX INTERIORS; this velvet Kevin O’Brien Studio ombre cushion in Desert Rose adds glamour to whatever it touches, CADIEUX INTERIORS; the Spiegelau Vino Grande martini glass is simply tasteful, HALF FULL GLASSWARE & ACCESSORIES, $14.95.

WINTER 2016 ottawaathome.ca 37

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 37

2016-02-04 3:39 PM

— SPONSORED CONTENT —

WINTER CAR WASHING MYTHS

Ottawa winters are harsh and cars can bear the brunt of the weather and the materials we use to cope with ice and snow. The myths can cause vehicle owners to avoid washing in the winter – the very time our vehicles need the most care. Tops Car Wash helps to make sense of these car wash myths.

5 MYTHS > MYTH #1: IT’S TOO COLD TO WASH THE CAR You shouldn’t worry about washing your car in normal winter temperatures. You should, however, warm up the interior to a comfortable temperature before heading to the car wash. And, it’s a good idea to drive your vehicle for a short while before washing it.

To prevent doors from freezing, don’t leave your vehicle parked longer than 15-20 minutes after a wash before coming back to it and opening and closing your doors and trunk a few times to break the initial freeze.

> MYTH #2: MY LOCKS WILL FREEZE UP Most cars today have remote door locks, so the chances of your locks freezing are not high. What can freeze is the seal around the doors and trunk, which is why I recommend opening and closing your doors a few times after you park your vehicle after washing it.

Choose a car wash that hand dries your vehicle and wipes around the door seals after washing it. Tops Car Wash has always hand dried all vehicles.

> MYTH #3: I SHOULDN’T CLEAN THE INSIDE OF MY CAR IN THE WINTER. Vacuuming the interior and rinsing mats are both important steps for minimizing salt and water damage. Always try to keep carpets as dry as possible as well. Tops will provide the service necessary to maintain the interior and exterior of your vehicle, and service is provided quickly with no appointment needed.

> MYTH #4: HAND WASHING IS BEST. Research has shown that the typical hand wash can be more harmful to a vehicle’s finish than an automatic car wash ever could be; more pressure is exerted by hand than with an automated system. Vehicles should be wet at all times during the wash process, which is difficult to ensure when washing by hand. Automatic systems are much faster and can therefore maintain water on your vehicle at all times. Tops uses a conveyor system to move vehicles through the wash tunnel which is equipped with jets that rinse the vehicle’s undercarriage during the wash process, which is an important but difficult step to complete when washing by hand.

> MYTH #5: CAR WASHING IN THE SUMMER BENEFITS THE CAR MORE THAN IN THE WINTER. Washing is just as important in the winter for many reasons. Road salt and brine mixtures are very harmful to your car’s undercarriage and paint finish, which will become corrosive if your vehicle sits in a heated or underground garage.

Safety is also a concern; roads get very wet in the winter, and the exterior windows get dirty, creating a hazard due to poor visibility. Regular washing will help alleviate this problem. And don’t forget that you should always keep the snow and ice off the exterior of your vehicle for your safety and the safety of others on the road.

Finally, spring clean-up is much easier when you practice regular car care during the winter months.

Keith Henry - President, Tops Car Wash

979 Richmond Rd 613-728-4232 Topscarwash.com

38 ottawaathome.ca WINTER 2016

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 38

2016-02-04 3:39 PM

HOME Style Defined

NEW TRADITIONAL

BY MARY TAGGART

MARYKTAGGART PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK HOLLERON

Décor styles typically fall into three categories ‑ traditional, contemporary and country. But as style evolves to incorporate a variety of materials and choices within the world of décor, the categories broaden.

New traditional is one of the most popular décor styles currently trending.

In this style, traditional décor, with its leaning towards symmetry, classic furnishings and luxurious fabrics, gets a dose of modern. Adding contemporary furnishings and flooring choices, with a few glamorous touches, enhances this style and brings it into today.

New traditional is simply an updated

version of traditional décor. It’s not to be confused with transitional décor, which combines the look of traditional and contemporary.

For this living room in Tamarack Homes Oxford model, designer Leonhard Vogt mixes traditional Louis XVI dining chairs and a classic bergère chair with a contemporary clean-lined sofa and chose a modern five-inch maple hardwood to create a stunning new traditional living room. The luxurious velvet fabric, traditionally patterned silk carpet and rich colour scheme all pay homage to the classic beauty of this timeless style.

ELEMENTS OF TRADITIONAL DÉCOR 3 3 3 3 3

Tone on tone colour scheme Small scale patterns Symmetrical, clean lines Understated elegance Dark wood tones

WINTER 2016 ottawaathome.ca 39

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 39

2016-02-04 3:39 PM

LIVING Beauty

SYMMETRICAL ROLE REVERSAL

BY MELISSA SHABINSKY PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK HOLLERON

“I am more at peace, both in my professional environment and home, with order, clean lines, symmetry and harmony.

This permeates my day-to-day work as a cosmetic physician and it has definitively shaped the way I have approached the designing of this space.”

— DR. CAROLINE TOSONI, COSMETIC PHYSICIAN

When Caroline Tosoni and her husband David decided to renovate the master bathroom in their Cumberland-area home, she knew from her profession as a cosmetic physician that natural beauty can be revealed by enhancing just one or two key features.

She also knew that light, symmetry and texture could all change a look dramatically.

“We bought this house nine years ago for its peaceful location on a two-acre treed lot with 100-year-old maple and oak trees, for its privacy and for its open-concept design and oversized windows,” says Caroline. “The specific style of the bathroom and kitchen, however, did not match our own personal taste.”

They considered building a brand new house, but in the end decided to renovate instead. Dean Large, a designer from Astro Design Centre, was approached to assist with the project. “I first met the clients at their home, where I could see their love of contemporary design in their furnishings.

The house they lived in was certainly not the modern masterpiece they wished for, but was situated on a gorgeous lot,” says the designer.

With four children, they needed a space that was elegant yet efficient, while also clean and uncluttered. “Some people like chaos or have eclectic tastes,” says Caroline. “I am more at peace, both in my professional environment and home, with order, clean lines, symmetry and harmony. This permeates my day-to-day work as a cosmetic physician and it has definitively shaped the way I have approached the designing of this space.”

Before starting the project, they knew that they wanted to play up the natural beauty surrounding the house, enhance the natural light and introduce new textures that would give the space a modern look. “Being centred in a wooden lot, we chose to carry natural materials like walnut, marble and slate into the room,” states Dean. “However, to add drama

40 ottawaathome.ca WINTER 2016

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 40

2016-02-04 3:39 PM

and contrast, the elements are juxtaposed with industrial lighting, square high-polished fixtures and a factory-style barn door.”

As first-time renovators, the couple looked at magazine and design websites to help create a bathroom inspired by the boutique hotels at which they had stayed in California.

They wanted comfortable luxury with a contemporary look.

“Several times Caroline and David expressed the importance of quality and luxury,” says the designer. “We used simple but stunning materials to achieve this.” He adds that the walnut vanities were made by WETSTYLE craftsmen in Montreal, and the feature wall is covered in a pale grey marble.

“Nothing in the room is overly patterned; rather, we chose to use luxurious, natural materials in the space.”

The room features two large windows that the couple chose to leave bare, plus oversized mirrors that capture the reflections of the trees surrounding the property. With 11- foot ceilings, the designer anchored the room by creating dramatic 12-inch baseboards from the same Italian stone tile used on the floor.

Working with the designer was a role reversal for the doctor. “When clients come to see me as their cosmetic physician, they rely on me to be the expert and tell them what they should be doing and what their options are, based on their own ideas. I can look at them and visualize the end result even before I start,” explains Caroline. “In this project, the roles were completely reversed. I sat in the client’s chair and sought Dean’s expert advice to help us create the space we wanted.”

For the designer, the doctor’s esthetic eye and innate sense of beauty only added to the process. “Caroline was great to work with.

She trusted me fully. However, together we were able to ensure all the proportions were perfect and the balance was there so that nothing feels out of place.”

NATURAL BEAUTY FACING PAGE: LEAVING THE OVERSIZED WINDOWS BARE ALLOWS FOR THE NATURAL BEAUTY TO COME INSIDE AND BE REFLECTED IN THE MIRRORS ACROSS THE ROOM. THIS PAGE, CLOCKWISE: FLOATING WALNUT CABINETS OFFER MODERN SYMMETRY; CAROLINE HAS A NO-FUSS BEAUTY ROUTINE; THE SHOWER CARRIES THE LOOK OF SIMPLE BEAUTY WITH SLATE AND WALNUT FINISHES; WETSTYLE SINKS AND FAUCETS WORK BEAUTIFULLY IN THE CONTEMPORARY SPACE.

WINTER 2016 ottawaathome.ca 41

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 41

2016-02-04 3:39 PM

LIVING Profile

EMPOWERED BY A LIFE-CHANGING DIRECTION

BY MARY TAGGART

PHOTOGRAPHY BY GREG TECKLES

The Honourable Kent Hehr was only 21 years old when he fell victim to a drive-by shooting and became a paraplegic. As an avid sports enthusiast growing up in Calgary, Kent had goals of becoming a physical education teacher. And while the accident changed his direction, it didn’t take away his zestful spirit, which has led to his new role as Canada’s Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence.

Kent, who is wheelchair-bound, admits that he went through times in his life after the shooting when he felt that he was a burden to people around him. But he always felt well-supported by his family and, in particular, by his sister Kristie, who is two years his junior.

He doesn’t take the importance of family for granted and states, “The role and support of family should never be underestimated.”

Kent is philosophical about what impact the accident has had on shaping him and his future. He admits that while life might have been easier had he not become paralyzed, he doesn’t think

it would necessarily be better. “Life is fulfilling and I am 100 per cent happy,” he says. “I understand that people don’t always have it easy. While my life is different, it has also helped me become a better person.”

The accident also changed the direction of his career path. Yet, he feels it gave him the opportunity to learn first-hand about the government’s role in ensuring the availability of support for persons with disabilities.

“I realized quickly that governments of all levels must work together to support their citizens and ensure that opportunities are available for all. I felt that I could contribute to my community and be a leader, but I knew I needed to be educated to do so,” states Kent, who moved forward from the accident to earn degrees in Canadian studies and law. It positioned him for a career in politics, culminating with his current job as a minister in the federal cabinet.

Although Kent acknowledges that he is not a veteran, he can relate to their struggle with life-changing experiences

and understands the challenges they face in settling back into life after active military service. Knowing the importance of having a clear purpose in life and the need for support from family, community and government, the minister states his goal is to rebuild the relationship between the veteran community and the government.

“My mandate identifies a number of commitments to improving services by reopening offices and hiring staff, improving economic opportunities – including for education – and ensuring that we strengthen the partnership between Veterans Affairs and National Defence.”

Remembering the impact of visits by veterans to his school as a child, Kent also notes that it is equally important to recognize veterans who served in peacekeeping roles in Afghanistan or in the Gulf War, for example. While he is well aware that the relationship between veterans and the government has been strained over the years and there are areas for improvement, he notes that the majority of men and women who served in the Canadian military do make a successful transition back into civilian life.

Kent’s own life seems to be a successful transition from being an able-bodied young man to a respected politician with a heartfelt mandate shaped from the confines of a wheelchair. His new cabinet position allows the minister more time to spend in Ottawa and he has an apartment in the ByWard Market. The Blue Cactus is one of his favourite restaurants – and he even admits to being seen at the legendary Chateau Lafayette on occasion.

He continues to enjoy sports and was honoured with the opportunity to present the Jake Gaudaur Veterans’ Award at the 2015 CFL awards in Winnipeg to the player who best demonstrates the attributes of Canada’s veterans in times of war, peace and military conflict. He believes that participating in sports contributes to success in life. “My experience with sports taught me the importance of teamwork, preparation and practice. All of these things are key to success in every aspect of life, and nowhere is this more true than in politics!”

42 ottawaathome.ca WINTER 2016

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 42

2016-02-05 8:53 AM

“Life is fulfilling and I am 100 per cent happy.”

— THE HONOURABLE KENT HEHR, MINISTER OF VETERANS AFFAIRS AND ASSOCIATE MINISTER OF NATIONAL DEFENCE WINTER 2016 ottawaathome.ca 43

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 43

2016-02-05 8:53 AM

LIVING Step Inside

HOCKEY & HUMILITY, THEN & NOW

BY VERA CODY

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK HOLLERON

Veteran Ottawa Senators defenceman Chris Phillips first put on skates when he was three years old and skated on the backyard rink his father Garth made at their Fort McMurray home. He remembers the isolated northern Alberta town where he and his sister Jennifer learned the importance of hard work and courage.

His mother Carol had multiple sclerosis and when Chris was 10, she contracted a virus that left her in a wheelchair. Two years later, his father became legally blind from diabetes, developed complications and eventually had both legs amputated. Chris never heard them complain, and their positive outlook and sense of humour while facing tremendous adversity influenced his character and behaviour.

When Jennifer went to college, Chris postponed the start of his Western Hockey League career to stay home and care for his parents. He was uncertain if this decision would affect his development as a hockey player, but he knew that if he had to leave they would support him.

Chris was the WHL rookie of the year and the NHL top draft choice. At just 18, he was drafted to the Ottawa Senators as the first player pick in the 1996 NHL entry draft. He remembers scoring the overtime winning goal in the 2003 Stanley Cup eastern conference final, extending it to game seven against the New Jersey Devils.

In 2012, family and friends celebrated his 1,000th game in Ottawa against the Nashville Predators, and in February last year he shattered Daniel Alfredsson’s franchise games record of 1,179. But

during rehabilitation from a successful surgery to repair a bulging disc in the spring, Chris suffered cracked vertebrae.

This has kept him off the ice but hasn’t stopped his entrepreneurial spirit.

His wife Erin introduced him to Pierre Cleroux, founding partner of the Clocktower Brew Pub. Collaborating with Pierre, Jimmy Zourntos (Baton Rouge, Denny’s) and restaurateur Angelis Koutsos, the group’s initial idea was to open a Brazilian steakhouse, but the real estate deal fell through. Two days later they met brewmaster Lon Ladell from Victoria, B.C., and the microbrew pub Big Rig Brewery was born. Three years on, they have two popular restaurant sites and a Kanata brewery production facility.

Chris is anticipating a future when he can look back on his business success as his other legacy. He learned how to be strong and humble like his father who was his first coach, biggest fan and his hero.

Chris hopes he has made him proud.

DID YOU ALWAYS WANT TO BE A HOCKEY PLAYER? I was determined and focused on achieving this dream, even though my teachers cautioned me about the odds. Everything fell into place and just worked out. I was lucky.

WILL IT BE DIFFICULT TO RETIRE FROM THE GAME? This happens to every player as it is in our blood to compete and we are in the business of winning. I would miss the camaraderie with my teammates, as we are a family.

I currently don’t travel with the team, but I am at the rink when they are home and keep them upbeat and positive even when they are having tough games.

Whatever is needed, I’m there to help out in any way that I can.

HOW DID YOU MEET YOUR WIFE ERIN? I had sprained my ankle and was in a walking cast and she was working in the suites, at the then Corel Centre, where I would watch the games. We have been married 13 years and have three children Ben (12), Zoë (11) and Niomi (8). Ben and Zoë play hockey and Zoë and Niomi figure skate. Ben plays baseball in the summer like I did. They like the fact that their dad plays for the Ottawa Senators, but I tell them my job doesn’t make us any different, more special or better than anyone else.

HAS THE RESPONSE BEEN POSITIVE FOR YOUR BEER? We have accolades from the Ontario Craft Brewers and won gold at the Canadian Brewing Awards ( in 2014). Our talented master brewer Lon experiments with exciting new flavours. Today’s generation is exploring their tastebuds. It’s not their dad’s Bud anymore.

WHAT IS NEXT FOR YOU? I have played through a lot of injuries but my body is not allowing me to play through this one. I have no plans on anything ending right now. I am grateful that when that day comes I have Big Rig, so I will be able to wake up the next day and come to work. I won’t be sitting at home trying to figure out what I am going to do in my next phase of life. Who knows what other opportunities might present themselves. Possibly doing things with the Senators in some capacity. We will see what happens.

44 ottawaathome.ca WINTER 2016

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 44

2016-02-04 3:40 PM

HOME LIFE CHRIS IN HIS KITCHEN WITH DAISY (BOTTOM LEFT), A BERNEDOODLE, AND CHARLIE, A GOLDEN MOUNTAIN DOODLE.

WINTER 2016 ottawaathome.ca 45

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 45

2016-02-04 3:40 PM

UPCOMING… The Renovation Issue

APRIL 29, 2016

Dig into the pages of our spring issue to get inspired with renovation projects that make you want to transform your home inside and out.

SPRING BEAUTY We step into a magical garden in Ottawa’s Rockcliffe Village to look at the endless possibilities

RENOVATION CHARM Check out the Opinicon Resort, on the Rideau.

We visit them while they are in the process of a much needed improvement project.

A REVAMPED WEBSITE!

Ottawaathome.ca has undergone a renovation of its own! Improved image views and stellar navigation make our site a go-to resource- give us a click ottawaathome.ca 46 ottawaathome.ca WINTER 2016

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 46

2016-02-04 3:40 PM

LIVING New & Notable

HIP & COOL

HERITAGE TOTE

We’ve found some exciting things to help you embrace winter in Ottawa: Enjoy artwork that showcases the region’s great outdoors; pick up a trendy carryall for weekend activities; visit a hip new shopping hotspot; and take a sip at a cool beer venue.

Perfect for toting skates to a canal outing or when packing for a weekend ski getaway, the Novel weekend duffle, is part of a new five-piece collection of travel essentials available at Hudson’s Bay stores. Hudson’s Bay Co. has partnered with Herschel Supply Co. to produce this trendy collection featuring the clean bold stripes symbolic of Hudson’s Bay.

WRITTEN BY SANDY CONNELL

COMMON PLACE Ottawa’s Elgin Street is known for its youthful vibe and eateries, bars and pubs, as well as the famed Sens Mile. And now it has just received a new dose of hip with the opening of COMMON at the corner of Elgin Street and Gladstone Avenue.

The two-storey retail space had struggled to find an identity within its prime location. Recognizing the potential, Ottawa businessman Nader Salib leased the top floor with the idea of creating the same sort of anti-mall that he experienced in California. It’s a place where visitors get a combined experience of unique services: a hair salon, clothing store and coffee shop, plus an ultra-cool space that’s waiting to house a restaurant, but is currently showing artistic expression – perfect for photo shoots and events.

WINTER IN ART Bring the outdoors inside this winter and celebrate the season while enjoying this vibrant scene of the Rideau Canal Skateway. Renée Bovet is a Canadian artist who uses silk as her canvas and special liquid dyes to produce works of art showcasing beautiful outdoor scenes. In the past few years, she has completed a series of iconic Ottawa scenes, featuring the Rideau Canal, the Parliament Buildings and Maman the Spider at the National Art Gallery. Her works are available at The Cuckoo’s Nest, 291 Richmond Rd.

IN BEER WE TRUST Stalwart, loyal, reliable and hard-working – all apt descriptors of the ale being produced by Stalwart Brewing Co., a small brewery that recently opened its doors in Carleton Place. Three friends, Nathan Corey, Edwin McKinley and Adam Newlands, all craft beer enthusiasts and former staff at The Wellington Gastropub, began as a small brewing operation in the restaurant’s kitchen. Stock Pot Ales, so named because they were brewing in stock pots rather than industrial tanks, started a house brew for the restaurant.

After the much-admired nanobrewery partnered with larger Ottawa breweries Beau’s and Beyond the Pale to produce specialNATE LEFT, ED, RIGHT occasion collaboration brews, they started thinking about the possibility of opening a full-scale production brewery. They were joined by another Gastropub staff member, Phil Kelsey, and opened just before Christmas as Stalwart Brewing Co. They are now brewing on a seven-barrel system and offering revived versions of three Stock Pot favourites: Big Papa Pale Ale, Bad Moon Rye Stout and Dr. Feelgood IPA. Ottawa’s Matchstick Design created Stalwart’s modern industrial-style tasting room and retail store at 10 High St. in Carleton Place.

Sample some of their ales at The Wellington Gastropub, Supply and Demand and Union Local 613.

WINTER 2016 ottawaathome.ca 47

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 47

2016-02-04 3:40 PM

LIVING My Way

“I see other women who have endured, and will endure what I did, and I want to help.”

— ANDREA DOUGLAS (PICTURED WITH CAPER)

CANCER, THEN & NOW

BY ANDREA DOUGLAS PHOTOS BY MARK HOLLERON

By the time my husband Tim had found a parking space and joined me in the waiting room of the The Ottawa Hospital Women’s Breast Health Centre, he found me sobbing.

Four days earlier, I had received a diagnosis from my family doctor of invasive ductal carcinoma. Breast cancer!

So here I was, filling out a mountain of paperwork including a smoking cessation form. Agree to stop smoking? But I had never smoked. So I jumped to the only logical conclusion I could: I had lung cancer too.

A leap in logic maybe. But when you learn you have a life-threatening disease, your mind doesn’t always follow a logical trajectory.

Fast forward to today – a year and a half

later – I’m a cancer survivor. On the outside, I look like anyone else who tries to keep active but is known to indulge in a little ice cream (OK, red wine) now and then. But on the inside, I sometimes jump from a cheerful and positive regular person to a fear and anxietyridden madwoman.

I still run into the odd person who hasn’t seen me in a while, but is aware of my recent battle. They will ask “How are you?” with a look of concern as they carefully reach out to me, afraid that I am brittle and will crumble.

My reaction is typically to shove my new head of hair (same red as before) into their face and tell them, “I feel great!”

But do I?

Not always. And I can’t put it behind me.

In fact, I find myself drawn into the world of breast cancer more and more. But in a good way. I see other women who have endured, and will endure what I did, and I want to help.

So I have become a peer support counsellor through Breast Cancer Action Ottawa. I am running my own monthly breast cancer support group and speak regularly at the bimonthly preoperative education session for women with breast cancer awaiting surgery.

I give my cancer journey testimonials at fundraising events. And I hope I’m helping them, because it’s certainly helping me! If I can ease another woman’s agony and fear at the hands of this terrible disease, then I have the upper hand over cancer.

I’m sometimes told I am “brave” for speaking in public, or for writing about my experience. I am no such thing. I just want to help people understand what cancer does

48 ottawaathome.ca WINTER 2016

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 48

2016-02-04 3:40 PM

and what treatment can do. Cancer treatment takes you literally to the brink of death! How can something like that NOT stop you in your tracks on some days – even years later.

The treatment and care I received at the Ottawa Hospital was exceptional. I’ve since been told I no longer “have the disease” (though I’m not naïve enough to believe that comes with a money-back guarantee). And I’ve been cut loose with only minor followups every six months for now. Oddly, that’s where it can get difficult. Because the medical system that worked SO hard to save me is no longer a daily presence in my life. And no one reassures me or my “co-survivors” that it’s OK to be not OK. I am one of the lucky ones. I don’t have young children to worry about anymore. I don’t have numbness or pain in my fingers and toes from chemotherapy. I don’t have inflamed lungs from radiation. And I don’t have a physically demanding job to go back to. The hormone-blocking drugs I take do make me gain weight, cause achiness and make for some crazy hot flashes and night sweats. But our heating bill thanks me and the money saved goes into those great stretchy jeans from Costco – the next size up. It’s a small price to pay to keep the bad guys at bay.

In the chemo ward, you get to ring a bell after you finish your last treatment. It’s like the clang of a bell that signals the end of a boxing match. Apropos given how chemo beats you up. When my husband recorded my bell-ringing ceremony and we posted it on Facebook, my “likes” went off the chart for the first and only time.

But the fact remains: it’s not over after the bell rings. The Ottawa Regional Cancer Foundation recognizes this, and later this year will launch a new two-day retreat. After the Bell is designed to help survivors come to terms with their new “normal.” It will help those in need return to everyday life, teach them coping skills and help them with things such as isolation, nutrition, body image and stress.

Did my experience define who I am now?

Sure it did, but in a good way. I’m healthy. I’m helping others. And did I mention my great new hair?

Learn more about After The Bell: ottawacancer.ca/how-can-we-help-you/ what-programs-are-available-to-you/ groupcoaching

Visit our showroom & 13,000 sq. ft. manufacturing facility

613 729.5004 www.crossford.ca

renovations & custom homes contemplate

innovate

rejuvenate

renovate

Check out the cost savings by dealing directly with the manufacturer One of a kind custom kitchens, built for all budgets

From concept to completion — our full-time, professional team can transform your vision into the home you’ve always dreamed of. It’s your renovation ...

enjoy it!

613-923-2187 • info@corell.ca

corellcustomcabinetry.com

Crossford Construction is a proud member of the following industry associations:

WINTER 2016 ottawaathome.ca 49

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 49

2016-02-04 3:40 PM

RENOVATING? DECLuTTERING?

STAGING YOuR hOME? ✔ RENOVATING? Renovating is stressful enough without having to worry about damaging your furniture. Protect your belongings during construction with Dymon’s world class storage solutions.

Store with Confidence • Full humidity and climate control for protection • State of the art security for your peace of mind • FREE Truck and Driver at MOVE-IN for your convenience

✔ DECLuTTERING? Now that winter is here, what better time to clean out your basement or garage, or declutter your home.

Experience the Dymon Difference • A storage solution unlike anything you’ve seen before • 24/7 access to the things you need at a moment’s notice • Choose a convenient Dymon location near you

✔ STAGING YOuR hOME? A staged decluttered home sells faster and for a higher price it’s a proven fact. Show off your home by using Dymon’s world class storage solutions.

Storage is easy with Dymon • Flexible month to month leases • A full range of storage unit sizes • Check out DymonMoves for moving assistance

Need storage... Think DYMON! (613) 842-9900

FREE Truck and Driver at MOVE-IN 8 Convenient locations across Ottawa

50 ottawaathome.ca WINTER 2016

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 50

Coventry Road • Prince of Wales at Hunt Club • Orléans • South Keys Walkley at Heron • Kanata Centrum • Carling at the Queensway Greenbank at Hunt Club (coming soon)

2016-02-04 3:40 PM

LIVING Street Style

FASHION FREEZE FRAME

BY KATIE HESSION

YOWCITYSTYLE

@YOWCITYSTYLE PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATIE HESSION

A fresh blanket of white snow makes a perfect backdrop for the winter fashion that emerges once the temperature dips. Long coats, faux fur, pompom tuques, leg warmers and blanket scarves are among some of my favourite winter staples. The endless layering possibilities that come with the chill of winter offer lots of options for cold-weather style in Ottawa.

I asked six stylish Ottawans the question: “Where is your favourite place to come in from the cold and be cosy in our city?”

WHO: Sandra, civil servant / fluevogologist WHERE: Lansdowne skating rink WEARING: Sola & Kyo coat / pants from Gap / hat by Tierre Taylor / scarf, mittens and long socks hand-knitted by Sandra

WHO: Shirley, designer WHERE: Rideau Canal WEARING: Shoes from Value Village / Hilary Radley coat / Studio Bliue designs (by Shirley)

WHO: Chloe, law student WHERE: Tabaret Lawn WEARING: Ookpik tuque / Kate Spade scarf / Forever 21 coat / Aritzia dress / Aldo boots

“The vintage teacups, mismatched plates and wholesome vegetarian food of The Pantry make it one of my favourite lunch spots. This hidden gem is the perfect spot to knit and enjoy a home-cooked meal.”

“No matter what time of the day or night, The Manx on Elgin always has the right atmosphere to accommodate all my moods. The furniture, the lighting, the art, the food and The Manx crew’s characters make the place a second home.”

“While the name suggests it may be a better summer spot, Stella Luna Gelato Café is a nice cosy place in the winter. I love their Alpine Hot Chocolate. It’s so delicious and warms you right up!”

WHO: Kay, law clerk WHERE: Rink of Dreams WEARING: Forever 21 top and necklaces / Old Navy skirt / coat borrowed from a friend / vintage gloves

WHO: Lacey, paralegal WHERE: Rink of Dreams WEARING: Vintage plaid skirt and cape / Pat Flesher fur collar / tights from Urban Outfitters

WHO: Andrew, student WHERE: The Glebe WEARING: Pajar boots / Simon’s jeans / Rudsak jacket and gloves / Warby Parker glasses / hand-knit scarf

“Union Local 613 is my favourite winter welcoming spot. I love the unique décor and delicious southern-style comfort food. My favourite part is the speakeasy hidden behind the bookshelf on the lower level. You have to try the boiled peanuts and bourbon lemonade.”

“The Moonroom is one of Ottawa’s best-hidden gems. The interior décor screams backpacker’s paradise, with a variety of interesting people forever exchanging stories, laid-back atmosphere, affordable food and great music.”

“Flapjack’s Pancake Shack on Preston is the best place to duck away from the cold. It’s a cosy little place dishing out Canadian comfort food.

I feel like a lumberjack every time I walk out of there!”

WINTER 2016 ottawaathome.ca 51

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 51

2016-02-04 3:40 PM

LIVING InStyle

COLOUR CONFIDENTIAL ISABELLE PICKS HER FAVOURITE COLOURS FROM ANNETTE’S COLLECTION.

REINVENTION

BY ALEXIA NAIDOO PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK HOLLERON

Reinvention is nothing new for Annette Quinet. The 52-year-old mother of three has made a career in fashion and image consulting for more than three decades, helping others put their best foot forward, while navigating the twists and turns of her own life path.

Annette says she’s always been passionate about clothing and fashion. She studied fashion merchandising at St. Lawrence College and established a successful career in retail. Then she got married and had two children, becoming a stay-at-home mom for several years.

She eventually started doing some marketing for her brother who had opened a learning centre. “I thought this was a good way to segue back into fashion because a lot of the clients, particularly new Canadians, were retraining for jobs and had to reinvent themselves,” says Annette. “That was intimidating for them because they had to go through the interview process and start

dressing and feeling the part. That was how I got into image consulting, which was ironic because I was reinventing myself at that point.”

Annette quickly realized she was good at helping people discover what they’re projecting, whether it’s through their clothing, accessories, hair or makeup. “That’s what I’m good at – I can decode it, I can put the whole package together.”

With her education and experience, launching an image consulting business just seemed like a natural fit. In 2004, she launched On Your Mark Images. It took on a life of its own with clients, speaking engagements, co-ordinating and MCing fashion shows, and workshops.

But in 2008, things took a turn with what Annette quips was a “marital realignment,” and subsequently a new baby at age 47. In addition, she was trying to help her older daughter who was struggling with mental

health issues. “It took a lot out of me. Talking to people about image is hard when your life is in the throes of crisis. I had to put my life on the back burner while I focused on getting her through some difficult times.”

Being on the other side of that now, Annette is ready to recharge her career. “Now I have the opportunity to go back out there. I have to refocus, because once you step out of this environment, you’ve lost time, possibly credibility, certainly exposure, and your contacts have all changed.” She adds, “But it also gives me an opportunity to reinvent myself and segue into an area that is tailored to where I am in life. Because I’m more seasoned now, I bring more to the table.”

While fashion is sometimes skewed toward the younger generation, Annette knows that “image” is quite different. She explains that you can be very fashionable and project an image, but you don’t have to buy every latest trend. Learning which trends to incorporate, and how, is where women get lost, especially later in their careers. And that’s where Annette comes in. She helps clients decide who they are and how they can best put that forward, whether it’s for career advancement or just to feel good in the milieu in which they’re working in.

The process begins for her clients at an information-gathering session during which Annette discovers what their needs are. From there she helps pick appropriate style lines for their body type, as well as for the type of work they do. “None of us has a perfect physique,” she says. “But there are ways to disguise or draw attention to different features, regardless of your shape or size.”

Annette also does personal shopping and closet audits in which she gives suggestions for which pieces clients can eliminate or add.

She can help source clothes and accessories and put ensembles together. “Having knowledge helps you in future shopping trips because you know what works for you – which colours and styles come together to create the perfect palette.”

Helping women put together that whole package is Annette’s passion, and she adds, “It’s a huge compliment when someone says they feel really positive about themselves and they’re achieving the goals they want, and that their image is helping them achieve that.”

Contact Annette, 613-293-3077

52 ottawaathome.ca WINTER 2016

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 52

2016-02-04 3:40 PM

LIVING Giving Back

FIT TO GIVE

BY CATHERINE CLARK @CATHERINEJCLARK PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK HOLLERON

Gary Zed dedicates his professional life to providing high-level strategic advice and counsel as EY’s tax market leader for Canada.

He dedicates his personal life to making his community a better place.

Learning to give back has been a lifelong journey for Gary. When he was a child, he would watch his grandparents – grocers and landlords who immigrated to Canada from Lebanon – as they extended a helping hand to those around them.

“My grandparents would help with free rent or free groceries if there was someone in need,” he recalls. “They even went so far as to lend food from their store to help other people start their own competing stores.”

Their example of generosity was not lost on Gary, and he has gone on to become one of Ottawa’s most noted philanthropists, donating time and money to charities as diverse as the LIFT Foundation, the Boys and Girls Club, The Ottawa Hospital and the NAC, among others. “Giving back is part of my DNA,” he laughs. “I didn’t do anything unique, I just got involved.” Mayor Jim Watson honoured him as a 2015 inductee of the Order of Ottawa.

Gary’s commitment to philanthropy took on a special emphasis when he noticed that his children were paying attention to what he was doing, and knew that his actions would inform their own approach to the world around them.

“I believe that raising fit kids is not just about helping them be educationally fit, or physically fit or financially fit – it’s also about being philanthropically fit,” he explains. “The more we expose kids to this, the more it makes them better people.”

It makes them better employees too, as far as Gary is concerned. “If someone

“Giving back is part of my DNA.” — GARY ZED, TAX MARKET LEADER AND COUNSEL, EY

doesn’t have a sense of community purpose, they’re missing their edge,” he says. “It’s a mandate in our office to become involved.”

He cites the example of EY’s Seven Days of Giving program, in which staff identify seven charities in need and come together to support those charities for the holidays.

Last year, EY staff donations went out to ACCESO International, the Boys and Girls

Club, CHEO, Operation Come Home, the Ottawa Food Bank, the Ottawa Mission and St. Joe’s Women’s Centre. It’s an initiative that clearly makes Gary proud.

“Ottawa is just the right size where you can make a big, impactful difference,” he says. “I’ve learned from the best in the city about how giving back is the imperative, and now my job is to champion change for the next generation.”

WINTER 2016 ottawaathome.ca 53

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 53

2016-02-04 3:40 PM

FOOD Food Thoughts

DOUBLE DELECTABLE TROUBLE CREATED BY KOREY KEALEY,

@FOODTHOUGHT

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK HOLLERON

Take two old family favourites from good to great by combining them. French onion soup and grilled cheese together make one decadently delicious meal.

KOREY’S TIPS Add crumbled blue cheese & bacon before broiling.

54 ottawaathome.ca WINTER 2016

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 54

2016-02-04 3:41 PM

FRENCH ONION SOUP WITH GRILLED CHEESE & BACON CROUTONS SERVES: 4 PREP TIME: 10 minutes COOK TIME: 20-25minutes BROIL TIME: 1-2 minutes 3 tbsp (45 mL) butter 4 medium cooking onions 1 tsp (5 mL) dried thyme 1 tbsp (15 mL) maple syrup 3 tbsp (45 mL) flour Salt & pepper, to taste 6 cups (1.5 L) beef broth 4 slices sandwich bread 2/3 cup (160 mL) shredded cheese (Jarlsberg, Swiss or Emmental) 4 slices cooked bacon 1 cup (250 mL) shredded cheese (Swiss, Jarlsberg or Emmental)

METHOD: In large saucepan, over medium-high heat, melt butter; sauté onions and thyme for 5 minutes. Reduce heat to medium and cover; cook for 10 minutes stirring occasionally. Add maple syrup and stir; season with salt & pepper.

Stir in flour absorbing the butter and liquid. Whisk in broth, increase heat to high, stirring constantly. Reduce heat and simmer 5 minutes or until thickened.

Meanwhile, place 1/3 cup (80 mL) shredded cheese on slice of bread, top with 2 pieces bacon and a slice of bread; repeat.

In sauté pan, cook sandwiches over medium heat until golden brown on both sides and cheese is melted; approximately 3 minutes per side.

Slice each grilled cheese into 8 squares; set aside until ready to assemble.

LEASING OPPORTUNITIES

8211-8231 CAMPEAU DR.

UNIQUE, UPSCALE SPECIALTY RETAILERS WITH NATIONAL TENANTS ANCHORED ALONGSIDE BOX STORES

ASSEMBLE: Preheat broiler to high.

Place oven-proof bowls on baking tray; ladle boiling hot soup into bowls, top each bowl with 4 grilled cheese squares then 1/4 cup (50 mL) shredded cheese; place tray on middle shelf of oven and broil 1 minute or until cheese is melted and bubbling.

Carefully place bowls onto napkin-lined plates and serve with soupspoon!

JOIN THE FOLLOWING TENANTS

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON LEASING AVAILABILITY, PLEASE CONTACT: 613-234-7000 EXT. 229

WINTER 2016 ottawaathome.ca 55

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 55

2016-02-04 3:41 PM

FOOD Let’s Dish

DELICIOUS REFLECTIONS

BY PAULA ROY PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK HOLLERON

When it comes to food, evolution is usually a good thing. It typically stems from both experience and learning and offers us new ways to prepare meals that are healthier and tastier. Three of Ottawa’s longserving food professionals sat down with Ottawa At Home to share their reflections on how things have changed and why they feel we’re eating so well now.

BRUCE WOOD Beau’s All Natural Brewing Company Bruce Wood’s impressive culinary resumé spans several decades and a lot of geography. Much of his career has been spent in Ottawa, cooking in places as diverse as Maxwell’s, the Marble Works, Trattoria Zingaro, Mariposa Farm, the Urban Element and more.

Now, he’s the resident chef at Beau’s All Natural Brewing Company, crafting delicious, seasonally inspired recipes that incorporate and complement the awardwinning craft beer.

Bruce says that having such a diverse career - which has also included teaching in Algonquin’s culinary program - has continuously refuelled his passion for cooking. “I’ve been fortunate to gain a great depth of hands-on experience. My initial training was classic French – very structured. I did the buckets of cream and butter thing in the beginning and loved all those ridiculously rich sauces, but I’m glad to have moved past that. Now I tend to favour mustards, beer and yogurt for my sauces.”

“I’ve been fortunate to gain a great depth of hands-on experience.”

He adds that it’s been interesting to watch the shift towards lighter, fresher fare, but takes care to prepare a menu that still offers huge flavour. “In place of those rich sauces of the past, now I would tend to sear the meat and use wild mushrooms and just a touch of veal stock to punch it up.

My sides are lighter too; I’d serve a polenta or barley risotto instead of old-school whipped potatoes with butter.”

Bruce cites more reasonable portion sizes as another example of how things have changed for the better. “We’re putting a lot more vegetables on our plates and people are now looking for a smaller bit of excellent meat, expertly prepared.”

In addition to being a vocal advocate for local produce, Bruce also favours ethically sourced meats and sustainable fish. “As people become more knowledgeable about food and respectful of what producers and chefs are trying to achieve, there is an increased awareness that there is a premium to pay for quality food and that eating with the seasons is really important.”

Bruce is excited by the wealth of young talent in Ottawa’s kitchens today. “There are some great young chefs doing fantastic things now, like Katie Ardington at Beckta, Natali Harea of Nat’s Bread and Cody Starr at the Rex, to name just a few. It’s been fun to watch their progress since I taught them at Algonquin and I think the future is very promising for diners here. There’s a lot of good stuff happening.”

56 ottawaathome.ca WINTER 2016

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 56

2016-02-04 3:41 PM

“I like to emphasize more vegetarian fare, as well as whole grains and brown rice – trying new grains in different combinations.”

PAM COLLACOTT Trillium Cooking School Pam Collacott has had a diverse career in the food industry which has included teaching both locally and internationally, working as a food stylist, and many years serving as a food journalist, recipe developer and cookbook author. A passionate proponent of teaching the basics of good cooking as an essential life skill, she is well-known in the Ottawa area for her frequent television appearances, as well as for the popular Trillium Cooking School that she ran with her husband Reed for decades out of their North Gower home.

Growing up in Windsor, Ont., Pam developed an appreciation for healthy,

farm-fresh food, enjoyed in season at its flavour peak. “If you appreciate the taste of really good fresh food, it’s easy to decrease salt consumption. People are now realizing that spices such as coarsely ground black pepper, herbs such as basil and cilantro, and condiments such as hot sauce, and flavoured mustards and vinegars can easily replace the flavour of salt.”

She has shifted to working primarily with butter and oils such as olive and canola, as well as baking with decreased fat and sugar. But the taste change is barely noticeable, and she adds butter to savoury dishes at the end so that the rich flavour is right on top. Pam also notes a move away from former popular staples such as white flour, white rice and pasta.

“I like to emphasize more vegetarian fare, as well as whole grains and brown rice – trying new grains in different combinations. Dishes from other countries are delicious and much easier to prepare now that ethnic ingredients are so readily available in Ottawa. When I first started making quesadillas, for example, I had to make my own flour tortillas.

Needless to say, they were a specialoccasion treat back then!”

Pam welcomes the fact that the majority of our region’s successful restaurants are also taking a simpler, yet varied approach to food.

“When I go to a restaurant now, I want interesting food and a bit different than what I cook at home – maybe it’s fancier, maybe it’s a different cuisine that I want to explore.” She’s grateful there are lots of delicious options in Ottawa that fit the bill.

SUBSCRIBE

BRINGING OTTAWA TO YOUR HOME Sub

Whether you are a seasoned Ottawan or new to the city, we offer the latest and greatest of what Ottawa has to offer for your home, your palate and your lifestyle.

HOME Feature of an interior designer at home; great design tips from the experts; Capital Colours and more.

FOOD Ottawa’s culinary experts; Paula’s Bites with Paula Roy; Food Thoughts with Korey Kealey.

LIVING Must Haves; Giving Back; profiles of Ottawa’s most interesting people; must read columnists.

To subscribe contact: admin@ottawaathome.ca 5 issues delivered to your home $25 WINTER 2016 ottawaathome.ca 57

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 57

2016-02-05 8:49 AM

GEORGES LAURIER C’est Bon Cooking Known by many in our region for his exceptional work in the kitchens of Café Henry Burger and Laurier sur Montcalm, not to mention his deft hand at the Wakefield Mill Inn and Café du Musée, Chef Georges Laurier has had an illustrious culinary career spanning more than 30 years. Today, he is the new co-owner and executive chef of Ottawa’s C’est Bon Cooking, offering culinary classes, gourmet food tours and chef consulting services.

Georges says that the popularization of new ingredients has been one of the biggest changes he’s experienced. “Our tastebuds are constantly evolving and the availability of products like quinoa, for example, have opened up new possibilities, some of which are also helping address the prevalence of food intolerances I need to consider as I try to make menus as inclusive as possible today.”

Despite the fact that exotic ingredients from all around the globe are more accessible than ever in our region, Georges remains philosophically a very regionalbased chef. “I am pleased to acknowledge the cultural influences around us but at the same time, working with local ingredients as much as possible helps ensure that the well-being of our planet is respected while preparing good food.”

In the past, Georges explains he used to pay a huge premium for heirloom vegetables, but has seen a big improvement in the variety and quality of local ingredients over his career. He also says that diners are much savvier and as many

more people are interested in gourmet cooking at home, there is a greater understanding of the difference quality makes.

“Of course there has been a shift towards healthier cooking as well,” he adds. “I now rely more on olive oil instead of cream and butter, as well as flavour enhancers like dried mushrooms and fresh herbs rather than salt. I love wild ingredients like Labrador tea and have been learning about other quintessentially Canadian ingredients that have been traditionally used for so long.”

As for the Ottawa restaurant scene, Georges notes that it has evolved dramatically and is more energized. “We had lots of classic French restaurants on the Quebec side; very few remain today. I see chefs at the gastropubstyle places in Ottawa doing amazing things, such as poutine with spaetzle. They’re merging classical dishes with contemporary Canadian flavours in bold and exciting ways.”

“I love wild ingredients like Labrador tea and have been learning about other quintessentially Canadian ingredients that have been traditionally used for so long.”

58 ottawaathome.ca WINTER 2016

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 58

2016-02-04 3:41 PM

FOOD Dining Out

THE WHALESBONE

“We are lucky. Most of the chefs in Ottawa are first class and I’d say the food bar is pretty darn high here – I’m very optimistic for the future.” — JOSHUA BISHOP, THE WHALESBONE

CHANGING TIMES, CHANGING TASTES

BY PAULA ROY PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK HOLLERON

Ottawa’s food scene has come a long way. Just a few decades ago, the joke was that if you asked where to get a good meal in the nation’s capital, you’d be told “In Montreal.” Today, our region is considered a culinary Mecca. It’s a place where thoughtful food producers, passionate chefs and knowledgeable diners intersect in so many delicious ways. Restaurants will continue to come and go, but there will always be some stalwarts who make a positive impact year in and year out. Here’s a look at four of them.

THE WHALESBONE Ottawa native Joshua Bishop got his start in the food industry at Toronto’s famed Rodney’s Oyster House before returning here to launch his first local venture, Whalesbone Catering, a service of “oysters to your backyard.”

Success fuelled expansion. Next up was the Whalesbone Oyster House on Bank in 2005, the Whalesbone Oyster and Fish Supply on Kent in 2008 and the Elmdale Oyster House and Tavern on Wellington in 2013. This spring,

he’ll open another new spot, the Whalesbone on Elgin.

The newest member of the Whalesbone family will stay true to its roots, even offering the brown bag lunch option that has been so popular at the Kent location. Chef Michael Radford also plans to include more beef dishes, but Joshua says this is merely a diversification, not a true deviation. “The demand for quality seafood has been growing and it will always be our prime focus.

WINTER 2016 ottawaathome.ca 59

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 59

2016-02-04 3:41 PM

FRANK SCHIMIZZI (LEFT) AND WALTER MORESCHI, OWNERS, MAMMA TERESA

“Chefs and consumers are definitely much more knowledgeable about oysters and sustainable fish than when we opened, but it’s still an ongoing education process.

As responsible fishmongers, we enjoy the opportunity to share information and help cooks and diners make informed choices.

I’m glad people are so eager now to learn where their food comes from and how it was harvested.”

Over the years, Joshua has seen a lot of very talented chefs pass through his kitchens, including Steve Vardy, Charlotte Langley, Steve Wall and Ben Ng, who is now at the helm of Noma in Copenhagen which is considered by many to be the world’s best restaurant. “We are lucky. Most of the chefs in Ottawa are first class and I’d say the food bar is pretty darn high here – I’m very optimistic for the future.”

JO CALABRO, OWNER, PASTICCERIA GELATERIA ITALIANA

MAMMA TERESA With more than sixty years’ experience at Mamma Teresa between them, co-owners Frank Schimizzi and Walter Moreschi know what it takes to keep diners happy. “We started out as busboys in the 1980s and were honoured to purchase the business in 2008 when founder Guiliano Boselli was ready to retire after almost forty years,” explains Frank.

“We’ve changed very little about Mamma 60 ottawaathome.ca WINTER 2016

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 60

2016-02-04 3:41 PM

JEAN-CLAUDE CHARTRAND, OWNER, L’ORÉE DU BOIS

“We spent ten years working through every single recipe and calculated precisely how many grams of each ingredient are required. The recipe books we have created assure guests of a consistent experience.”— JEAN-CLAUDE CHARTRAND, L’ORÉE DU BOIS

Teresa because our loyal clientele likes things the way they’ve always been done here. We treat everyone like family and the food is authentic and made from scratch.”

For decades, Mamma Teresa has played host to all of Ottawa’s movers and shakers.

The photographs that line the walls tell a tale of a restaurant where innumerable deals were brokered, particularly in the private dining rooms upstairs. “There is never a dull moment,” laughs Walter. “We enjoy feeding politicians, visiting celebrities, diplomats as well as our valued regular guests. Everyone gets the same treatment.”

Despite ever-changing food trends, the menu at Mamma Teresa has evolved little.

Seafood pasta and veal scaloppini remain best sellers, as do the hot and cold antipasto plates. Frank notes that the biggest change

has been finding ways to accommodate food intolerances, which they are pleased to do whenever necessary. “There’s something for everyone here,” he confirms.

Their formula works, so much so that the partners opened a second location in Chelsea in 2014. Yet the greatest testament to Mamma Teresa’s enduring popularity is perhaps the fact that multi-generational families love to eat there. “We’ve got people coming in who were kids when the restaurant first opened; now they’re bringing their own children and even grandchildren. It’s pretty special,” says Frank.

PASTICCERIA GELATERIA ITALIANA Ottawa has a longstanding reputation as a cosmopolitan city, due to our diplomatic community and a significant percentage of residents who travel for business and

pleasure. It was those demographic aspects that convinced Joe Calabro to open Pasticceria Gelateria Italiana on Preston Street in 1979.

“It was the right time and the right location,” says Joe, an internationally-acclaimed, award-winning pastry chef and chocolatier who is largely self-taught. “The shop quickly developed a base of very loyal customers, including lots of Italians. These were primarily people who had travelled in Europe and appreciated that we offered the same style of hospitality and similar ambiance. We were the first place in the city to offer homemade gelato in a European-style café.”

Over the years, Joe and his team have added new elements to their menu, including a vast array of delectable pastries, hot and cold breakfast and lunch service, seasonal treats and catering. “We opened our wedding cake WINTER 2016 ottawaathome.ca 61

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 61

2016-02-04 3:41 PM

gallery and studio in 1991 and this remains a big part of our business today.”

The family-run operation has seen its ups and downs over the years, including a devastating fire in 2011. Through it all, they maintained their popularity with diners near and far, and are now serving a third generation of customers.

While tastes evolve, Pasticceria Gelateria Italiana remains a crowd pleaser, confirms Joe. “People still like to have a treat once in a while and when they do, they want it to be a quality one. Our European style desserts have less sugar and people really seem to like that, especially today. What I do brings joy to people and that feels really good.”

L’ORÉE DU BOIS

SPECIALTY FLOORING

SHOWROOM HOURS: MONDAY - FRIDAY 9AM - 5PM, SATURDAY 10AM - 3PM

Flooring the way nature intended 1520 Triole St., Ottawa 1-613-738-7851 logsend.com

A cozy farmhouse tucked into the woods on the edge of Gatineau Park is often described as one of the most romantic restaurants in the area. Thirty-five years ago it changed hands and the Italian restaurant called Luigi became the charming l’Orée du Bois, serving excellent classic French cuisine. Their dishes expertly incorporate locally-sourced ingredients that infuse the menu with tastes of regional terroir.

Current chef-owner Jean-Claude Chartrand has been in the restaurant’s kitchen for seventeen years, and assumed ownership with his wife Josée in 2012. He says that places like l’Orée du Bois joined the local culinary landscape on the heels of Expo 67, which brought lots of European chefs to Montreal. “Many stayed to open restaurants, including a number in the Ottawa area.”

Jean-Claude feels that l’Orée du Bois’ perennial success stems from the fact that it has always been run by a dedicated chefowner. He says one of the most important aspects of keeping the more than 28,000 customers they serve each year satisfied has been standardization. “We spent ten years working through every single recipe and calculated precisely how many grams of each ingredient are required. The recipe books we have created assure guests of a consistent experience.”

While Jean-Claude has made few menu changes, he does have exciting plans for the future. “We’d like to add a terrace and I plan to pursue more international culinary competitions as well. These events are a boost for the confidence as well as a wonderful marketing opportunity for us.

But above all else, we will always focus on providing good value. That’s what we’re known for at l’Orée du Bois.”

62 ottawaathome.ca WINTER 2016

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 62

2016-02-04 3:41 PM

FOOD Paula’s Bites

CONTEMPORARY PINEAPPLE CHICKEN

BY PAULA ROY

• • •

@PAULAJROY PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK HOLLERON

If you grew up in the 1960s or 70s, pineapple chicken was probably on the menu at your house. Back when international flavours were unfamiliar and exotic, this dish seemed different and quite fancy compared to standard North American fare.

The downside? Most versions were salty, included too much sugar, and relied on canned pineapple for that tropical touch.

Updating this classic recipe to reflect today’s tastes was easy, and the results are delicious. You can also do much of the prep work ahead of time, making it fast to assemble at dinnertime.

INGREDIENTS For the sauce: 3/4 cup (175 mL) pineapple juice (fresh or canned) 1 tbsp (15 mL) grated fresh ginger root 3 tbsp (45 mL) soy sauce 3 tbsp (45 mL) honey 3 tbsp (45 mL) rice wine vinegar 2 tbsp (30 mL) sesame oil 1 – 2 tbsp (15 – 30 mL) Asian Chili-Garlic Sauce (to taste) 1 tbsp (15 mL) cornstarch For the chicken and vegetables: 4 boneless chicken breasts, in 1 inch pieces

1/3 cup (90 mL) cornstarch 1/2 tsp (2.5 mL) freshly ground pepper 2 – 4 tbsp (30 – 60 mL) canola oil 1 large carrot, thinly sliced on the diagonal 1 large red pepper, in 3/4 inch (2 cm) pieces 1 medium zucchini, thinly sliced 1 fresh pineapple, peeled and cored, in 1 inch (2.5 cm) pieces 1/2 cup (125 mL) minced green onion tops 1/2 cup (125 mL) salted cashews cooked brown rice, to serve METHOD • Prepare sauce by combining all ingredients in a jar with a tight lid and

•

•

•

•

•

shaking well to blend.

Chop all ingredients before beginning to cook.

Put cornstarch and pepper in a small bag and shake to blend.

Dredge chicken pieces, a handful at a time, in the cornstarch mixture. Place them on a clean plate, in a single layer.

This can be done up to an hour before cooking time; refrigerate chicken until needed.

When ready to assemble the dish, heat 2 tablespoons of the oil in a wok or large frying pan over medium heat.

Add chicken pieces to the pan in batches so they are not too crowded and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5 – 7 minutes. Remove cooked pieces to a clean plate and add more oil as needed. The chicken can be cooked ahead of time and refrigerated for up to an hour.

When chicken has been cooked, add a tiny bit more oil to the pan and cook carrots, stirring often, for 2 minutes.

Add peppers and cook for 2 minutes more. Add zucchini and cook for 2 minutes.

Return cooked chicken to the pan and drizzle sauce over top and cook, stirring gently, for 3 – 5 minutes until sauce is thickened.

Serve chicken mixture and sauce over cooked brown rice and garnish with minced green onion and cashews.

Serves 6 – 8

WINTER 2016 ottawaathome.ca 63

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 63

2016-02-04 3:41 PM

END NOTE

ETHEREAL BEAUTY IN ROSE QUARTZ AND SERENITY

VILLEROY & BOCH INCORPORATE PANTONE’S COLOURS OF THE YEAR FOR 2016 INTO CHINA PATTERNS, SHOWING HOW TO INCORPORATE ROSE QUARTZ AND SERENITY INTO HOME DÉCOR.

64 ottawaathome.ca WINTER 2016

OAH_WINTER 2016 PAGES.indd 64

2016-02-04 3:41 PM

THE NEW

GALLERY TOWNHOMES

BY TAMARACK FROM $279,900

I’M MOVING UP! TO 1448 SQUARE FEET OF UPGRADED TAMARACK LUXURY Private garage, spacious balcony, 6 appliances, and air conditioning – all included! * a month.

It's all mine for under $

1200

*principal and interest payment based on 10% down and a 2.59% 5 yr. xed mortgage rate.

Located in the Heart of Hintonberg

IMMOVINGOUT.CA www.hubertsfireplaces.com | 101 Pinhey St. Ottawa | 613-728-3786

OAH-COVERS-WINTER 2016.indd 2

2016-02-04 3:34 PM

Historic industrial meets artistic modern in the heart of Ottawa's hippest neighbourhood.

Steps from an eclectic mix of galleries, boutiques and eateries, Tamarack Wellington's design pays homage to the history of Hintonburg, for an industrial loft look that's crisp, urban, and unabashedly modern.

OVER

60% SOLD! Sales Centre & Model Now Open

www.tamarackwellington.com

1140 Wellington West

OAH-COVERS-WINTER 2016.indd 1

Starting From

$298,900

• 52 Units over 6 floors in first phase • Designed by Barry J. Hobin Architects • Next to the old Grace Hospital

OTTAWA AT HOME WINTER 2016 BEFORE & AFTER OTTAWA AT HOME MEDIA INC

MOVE IN THIS SUMMER!

H O M E S D E S I G N L I V I N G S H O P P I N G F O O D

WINTER 2016

ottawaathome.ca $5.99

BEFORE & AFTER SKI CHALET LIVING ROOM KITCHEN BATHROOM

ON TREND

GLAMOROUS FAMILY ROOM NEW TRADITIONAL COLOURS OF THE YEAR WHITE ON WHITE

OTTAWA SCENE

RESTAURANT EVOLUTION

HIGH PROFILE

CHRIS PHILLIPS THE HONOURABLE KENT HEHR GARY ZED

2016-02-05 8:44 AM