Holiday/Winter 2023/24 - GREY & BRUCE COUNTIES

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Holiday magic

saving

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A Wiarton Landmark

Moving to

Southampton

the best gifts to give

Chocolate pudding cake

ourhomes.ca

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FURNITURE • APPLIANCES • MATTRESSES 206518 HIGHWAY 26 E, MEAFORD I 519-538-1620 I MACDONALDSFURNITURE.COM

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Real Estate is like the weather.

If you wait for the perfect conditions, you’ll never get anything done!

Make the most of the season we are in!

Whether you are buying your first home or selling your last, let Krista’s experience work for you.

Krista Gill, Sales Representative

519.378.7653 | KristaGill.com

Sound Realty Inc., Brokerage Locally Owned & Independently Operated

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is your local source for custom Granite, Marble and Quartz countertops. As a family owned and operated business, we are committed to providing quality workmanship and customer satisfaction. Bring us your ideas and our friendly staff will help make your vision happen. Natural stone is a beautiful and durable way to personalize your dream kitchen or bathroom.

Colour and material selection can be done on-site from our stock of 40 Granite colours. We also offer our customers a wide selection of Quartz surfacing including Hanstone, Caeserstone and Silestone. Or choose from a large selection of Granite remnants that can be used for vanities, fireplace surrounds, accent pieces or just about anything else you can imagine.

To help make The Old Barn a one stop shop, we offer a full line of stainless steel kitchen sinks, porcelain vanity sinks and faucets from Bristol Sinks.

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Visit us today and let us make sure you get the best paint and advice to get your project done right.

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Changing the look of your property.

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Everything you need

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STAND THE TEST OF TIME.

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i B Regional Publishers

Jamie Jefferson

Georgette McCulloch regional Managing Editor Sara Martin regional production Manager Kelly Donaldson Marketing & Advertising Betty Ann Fawcett, 519.372.6338 bettyann.fawcett@ourhomes.ca

Reach us easily: firstname.lastname@ourhomes.ca

EXPAND THE ONLINE PRESENCE OF YOUR BUSINESS

INQUIRE ABOUT OUR DIGITAL ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES

Our homes is a registered trademark of OUR HOMES MEDIA GROUP INC. Our homes Grey & Bruce Counties is published four times a year.

Our homes is distributed to residents of Grey & Bruce Counties via direct mail. Copies of Our homes are available for free pick up at high-traffic locations throughout the region.

Our homes is sent to select business leaders via direct mail.

OUR HOMES Media Group Inc. is a proud member of the Owen Sound and District Chamber of Commerce.

Please send all letters and/or feedback to OUR HOMES Magazine, 25 Elgin St., Collingwood, ON Canada L9Y 3L6. Or email us at editor@ourhomes.ca.

All letters received are subject to editing for grammar and length.

Our homes media group inc: EDITO R IAL

Production

Editor-In-Chief Georgette McCulloch

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Associate Editor Heather Wright

Production Managers

Digital Editor Tracey Paul

Julia Dempsey, Kelly Donaldson, Tracy Shuttleworth

Managing Editors

REACH 500,000+ PEOPLE ONLINE • SOCIAL MEDIA POSTS • NEWSLETTER ADS • SPONSORED ARTICLES • AND MORE

Walter Franczyk, Donna Luangmany, Gina Makkar, Sara Martin, Drew Beth Noble, Brianne Smith, Megan Smith-Harris, Gabrielle Tieman-Lee, Janet White Bardwell, Gisele Winton Sarvis

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Op e r at i o n s

CitySton

Managing DIrector, sales & marketing

Jamie Jefferson jamie.jefferson@ourhomes.ca Managing DIrector, operations

art

Georgette McCulloch

Art Director

Tara Chattell

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Associate Art Directors

business development Kelly Craig

Sheila Britton, Robynne Sangiuliano

Accounting Tyler Annette

Director of Photography

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Sheila Britton, Dale Darcy, Nigel Eves, Gregory Fast, Bailey Franklyn, Jason Hartog, Rachael Havens, Nicole Hilton, Sandy MacKay, Lisa Marie, Sara Martin, Caeli Mazara, Jenelle McCulloch, Tamarisk McNalty Stephens, Lynne Richardson, Erin Rochon, Angela Serednicki, Megan Smith-Harris, Kianna Sunshine Advertisements and the content, including photos, of advertisements published within OUR HOMES magazine are supplied solely by the advertiser and neither the publisher nor Our Homes Media Group Inc. accept responsibility for opinions expressed in advertisements or for copyright issues with regards to photos, advertising copy and advertisements, nor shall they be held liable thereby. By act of reading this publication, all advertisers and readers agree to indemnify and hold harmless both OUR HOMES Media Group Inc., and the publisher thereby. Copyright ©2023 OUR HOMES Media Group Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is prohibited.

OUR HOMES can be found in the following markets: • Barrie/Orillia/Midland • The Golden Horseshoe • Grey Bruce • London • Muskoka • Ottawa • Peterborough • Southern Georgian Bay • Toronto & York Region • Wellington County/Orangeville/Caledon/Waterloo Region • Windsor

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We pride ourselves on offering the highest value on all the products we service & install.

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Celebrating over

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citystone.com

Material: Dekton Soke Springridge Contracting Ad WINTER 2023.pdf

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Your imagined spaces brought to life...

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519-377-3630 | springridgecontracting.ca

618128 Grey County Rd 18 | Owen Sound, ON

springridgecontracting@gmail.com

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editor’s note

Did you know that if you have more than 6 employees you need to have a safety program? You also need a Health & Safety Representative.

Spencer Safety Solutions can work with you to create a custom program to protect you and your workers. We help small businesses like yours meet the provincial safety requirements.

Contact us today to assess your needs or for more information.

Owen Sound, ON 519.376.SAFE (7233) jcspencer@live.ca

spencersafetysolutions.ca

Retirement Living at its best!

Retirement Living can be active, fun & fulfilling!

We know because we help make it a reality everyday.

Great Meals Fun & Engaging Activities Wellness Programs Entertainment & Social Events Independent & Supportive Care

Whenever I get the chance to visit The Old Barn near Hanover, I love walking through their large granite yard to admire the slabs. Each piece is a journey through the history of the earth, with pattern formations created millions of years ago. In the 1980s, granite was a luxury item. Luckily, today, it is an option for anyone who decides to add stone surfaces to their home. The Old Barn has an impressive selection of more than 40 granite slabs, and with the current trend of using stone for your backsplash, granite comes into its own with a vertical installation that truly highlights a piece of the earth.

History also comes alive at the Reckin house in Wiarton. Jorn and Elsie Christensen purchased the once grand century home and embarked on a complete restoration. The building sat empty for 20 years, building layers of decay. But just like granite after it’s cut from a quarry, the real beauty is revealed when polished. The Christensens worked tirelessly to restore the home back to the period it was built.

They succeeded, and their story on page 104 proves that you can achieve great things with a plan and perseverance.

If you want to create your own piece of history, our Spotlight on Royal Homes is a starting point. This business has been helping thousands of homeowners navigate the process of building a custom home with exacting precision and clear communications, resulting in an airtight structure custom to each individual homeowner and built to last.

I hope your holidays are filled with perfect moments, maybe even history-making moments.

See you in 2024!

Variety of Floorplans

Sara Martin, Managing Editor sara.martin@ourhomes.ca Follow us 551 Mary Street, Port Elgin, ON, NOH 2C2 T: 519.389.5457 ext.105 sales@elginlodge.ca

Sign up for our newsletter ourhomes.ca/newsletter

online

Get more at ourhomes.ca

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contents

Holiday/Winter 2023/24

26 60

52 local features 26 Style Picks Get your home ready for visitors with these helpful and beautiful products from around the region.

36 Home & Builder A young family settles into their new community in a beautiful new home built by Alair Homes Grey Bruce.

60 Spotlight Royal Homes builds custom, prefabricated homes, offering homeowners a great experience.

64 Holiday Home Tour Four homes dressed for the holidays capture the beauty and joy of the season.

86 People & Places Meet talented people in your neighbourhood who are ready to help.

104 Feature Home Enjoy the award-winning transformation of a historical home in Wiarton.

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On the Cover The Chantry Island Cham-bettes’ 14th Christmas Tour of Homes showcased a diverse selection of properties decorated for the holiday season. Story, page 64. Photography by Sandy MacKay. 20 | ourhomes H oliday / W inter 2 0 2 3 / 2 4

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n.

Call Us Today!

1-519-323-3336 | 1-866-506-6626

PineridgeTimberframe.com

Proud to be part of the Dream Home Group

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contents

Holiday/Winter 2023/24

120 departments

30

36

18 Editor’s Note 24 Advice Window Treatments 30 Cooking At Home Chocolate Pudding Cake 32 Decorating The Fifth Wall 48 Holiday Hints Gift Guide 52 Entertaining New Year’s Eve 54 Decorating Winter Bedding 58 Double Take King-Size Style 80 Real Estate Downsizing 96 Entertaining Progressive Parties 98 Birding Masters in Birding 102 Cooking At Home Comfort Stew 114 Crafty Ideas Sleigh Bells Ring 116 Home Resource Directory 118 Good Taste Pear Negroni 120 Finishing Touch Japandi Style

48 104 22 | ourhomes H oliday / W inter 2 0 2 3 / 2 4

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Chantico

Chantico Gallery

Chantico Countryside

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158185 7th Line Meaford, ON 519.538.4112

6 Ashfield, Huron Townline Kincardine, ON 519.395.0740

ChanticoFireplaces.com S A L E S . I N S TA L L AT I O N S . S E RV I C E

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advice

WINDOW TREATMENTS Designer Tamarisk McNalty Stephens shares her ideas.

Windows connect us to the outside environment and flood our space with natural light. They balance the architectural design and can frame views of nature. Why would we cover them up? Well, window treatments play a role from a functional and aesthetic point of view.

PRIVACY & SECURITY If you live in a city, town or close to a busy roadway, window treatments provide privacy that can increase your feelings of comfort. If you own a vacation property, obstructing the views to the interior provides additional security.

GLARE CONTROL Whether working on a computer or watching television, window coverings temper the light to avoid casting a glare on your screens (specifically during certain times of the day or year).

SOUND ABSORPTION With the prevalence of open-concept homes and vaulted ceilings, drapery made with a dense, tightly woven fabric can aid in absorbing the noise that travels throughout your home.

home decor interior decorating Canadian-made furniture custom drapery & bedding Don’t see what you’re looking for?

We’ll try to find it for you..

LIGHT TRANSMISSION Window coverings can help to protect furnishings from fading and sun damage, particularly from the strong south or west sun.

ENERGY CONSERVATION Windows are constantly being manufactured to higher standards of energy efficiency but window coverings can still help (especially from the westerly winter wind or beaming summer sun).

Heavy draperies layered with a honeycomb cellular shade can provide additional insulation value.

LIFESTYLE

4946 Bruce Rd.3, Port Elgin (between Burgoyne & Southampton)

519.386.8182

interiormotivesandco@gmail.com interiormotivesandcompany.com

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Shift workers and light sleepers benefit from blackout blinds/draperies in the bedroom as darkness indicates to the body that it’s time to rest.

Be mindful of your pets – cats like to climb curtains and dogs can soil the edges of your drapery.

Location Consider the material, style and design of the window treatment and the characteristics and use of each room, as well as frequent occupants (greasy fingers from little people may affect your selections).

Style Window coverings can elevate the home from an aesthetic point of view to support the overall design and architecture.

There are generally two types of window coverings – hard and soft. Soft window coverings include drapery, curtains and shades, while hard window treatments include blinds, shutters and screens.

Drapery is typically more formal than curtains. They are often pleated and hung on rods mounted outside of the window frame

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HUNTER DOUGLAS: Provenance Woven Wood Shades

HUNTER DOUGLAS: Vignette Modern Roman Shades

Owen Sound’s Best Self Storage Facility COVERS CANADA: Custom Draperies

HUNTER DOUGLAS: Heritance Wood Shutters

at the ceiling or above the top of the window frame.

Curtains are mounted inside or outside of the window frame. An example is the café curtain, which has made a comeback in recent years.

They are installed halfway up the window (typically within the frame), providing privacy in the lower portion while allowing daylight to stream in from above.

Shades control light by filtering or blocking. Roller, Roman, sheer and cellular shades are examples. Depending on the options, they can be translucent, opaque or black-out.

Blinds are either horizontal or vertical and made of several materials, including wood, vinyl, metal or fabric. Traditional blinds can tilt to control light and privacy. Vertical solutions include slats and panel tracks.

Shutters are rigid panels in a frame with louvres that tilt. They have hinges that operate like small doors installed within the window frame. Screens can be sliding or folding, such as the Shoji screen.

Operation Depending on the type of window covering, motorization is becoming more popular with smart-home automation, especially for difficult-to-reach windows, large windows or windows with sensitive fabrics that you want to avoid touching frequently. Some systems require a hardwire during the rough-in phase (possible for new builds and renovations), while others utilize a rechargeable battery system. Be prepared that motorized window treatments cost significantly more than their non-motorized counterparts.

The one with the BLUE roof & BLUE doors!

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Cost Window treatments are an investment and should be a line item in your home build or renovation budget from the outset. To help determine costs, schedule an appointment with a local expert. They will evaluate your needs and tailor solutions to fit your requirements, your lifestyle and your specific house. For example, the style/type of window operation, whether you have traditional casing or drywall returns, and if you need black-out versus light filtering will all affect the best mounting solution, which will determine the measurements. It is best to consult a professional!

Care As with anything, regular maintenance will extend the life of your window coverings. The style, material and design of your window treatments will dictate how frequently they need to be cleaned, but generally dust or vacuum during your routine and add a deep clean once or twice a year. OH

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style picks 1

Interior Motives & Co. Wreath This wreath has a grapevine base accented with faux greenery, pine cones and silver bells that jingle softly as the door opens. Place it inside or outside, where all can enjoy its icy beauty.

4946 Bruce Rd. 3, Port Elgin 519.386.6380 | interiormotivesandcompany.com

2

House Rules Design Shop Accent Chair With a seat depth of 32 inches, curl up and relax in this stylish armchair by Stylus. The on-trend exposed seams and curved back create an effortless blend with any style. Showcased in cosy Bergen Snow fabric but pick from other options to make this piece a perfect fit for your home.

1

341152 Grey Rd. 28, Hanover 226.434.1234 | houserulesdesign.com 3

Embrace

the season

The Old Barn Quartz The Old Barm carries quartz from LG Viatera, Caeserstone, Silestone and HanStone, offering clients many options for finding the right colour and pattern for any project. With on-site fabrication and installation, it’s easy to enjoy new stone counters in your home.

173480 Mulock Rd., Hanover | 519.369.1710 | theoldbarngranite.ca

4

Fulfords Kitchenware Bathware Hardware Bathtub Personalization has emerged as a significant new trend in bathroom design, which extends to having the exterior of a freestanding tub coordinate with the rest of a bathroom’s colour palette. With hundreds of colours to choose from, make your bathroom uniquely yours.

It’s a winter wonderland outside, so keep your home warm and cosy with these new additions.

874 2nd Ave. E., Owen Sound | 519.376.7729 | fulfords.com 5

Smitty’s Fine Furniture Sofa Bed Designed for comfort and perfect for overnight guests, this Swinden sofa-sleeper features attached seat-and-back cushions that remain fastened when opening and closing. Canadian-made and available in many fabrics, leather and leather alternatives.

Comes in queen, double or twin sizes.

2

170 3rd St., Hanover | 519.364.3800 | smittysfurniture.com 6

Markdale Flowers Floral Arrangement Give joy and pleasure with a lush floral arrangement for the holidays or just because. With a mixture of ranunculus, lisianthus, asparagus fern and dried accents, this centrepiece can be enjoyed by everyone seated at the dinner table on a winter’s night.

56 Main St. W., Markdale | 519.986.2721 | markdaleflorist.ca Continued on page 28

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style picks 7

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7 Wilson Solutions

Garage Storage Stop tripping over winter sports gear in your garage by using slatwall and cabinetry solutions to keep items off the floor and within easy reach.

With multiple colour options, they are built to last with no warping or splitting. Transform your garage into an organized, spacious haven.

519.369.8225 | wilsonsolutions.ca

By Appointment

8

Grey Bruce Paint & Decor

9

Equipment Ontario

Poufs Rest your tired feet after rushing around to get ready for the holidays. Easy to move from room to room and designed to fit with any décor, these poufs will help you unwind and see the pleasure in all your efforts.

Estate Tractor Use a Mahindra tractor to finish all the chores on your property. With an incredible range of implements, including snow blowers, tire options and a seven-year powertrain warranty, this tough machine can tackle anything.

1580 20th St., E., Owen Sound 519.371.4207 | greybrucepaint.com

1405 Hwy. 9, Mildmay 519.367.2672 | equipmentontario.com OH

Mainta at

Resi

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Reilly’s Roofin or its affiliated

2023-11-01 3:17 PM

Reilly’s Roofing Ltd.

226.668.2045

reillysroofing.ca | reillysroofingltd@gmail.com 122455 Grey Road 5, Owen Sound

We Provide Affordable Roofing Services For Everyone

PREFERRED CONTRACTOR 50 YEAR NON-PRORATED WARRANTY!

Reilly’s Roofing is an independent contractor and is not an affiliate of Owens Corning Roofing and Asphalt, LLC or its affiliated companies. © 2021 Owens Corning. All Right Reserved.

Maintaining your roof is the best way to keep you and your family comfortable and safe from the elements. However, if you do experience a leak or issue with your roof, don’t sweat it. Just call the team at Reilly’s Roofing Ltd for help! We have experience fixing and maintaining every type of roof on houses and cottages in the Owen Sound area. We offer fair pricing for our high-quality services!

Residential Roofing • Commercial Roofing • Industrial Roofing • Roof Repairs • Roof Replacement • Slope Roofs • Metal Roofs • Flat Roofs • Eavestrough • 24/hour Emergency Repair Serving Grey Bruce & The Surrounding Community For Residential, Commercial, Institutional & Industrial Roofing.

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cooking at home

CHOCOLATE

Pudding Cake RECIPE AND P HO TO G R A PHY JEN ELLE MCC U L L OC H

THIS CHOCOLATE PUDDING CAKE IS THE PERFECT COMBINATION OF FUDGEY CHOCOLATE CAKE AND GOOEY PUDDING! SERVE IT WARM OUT OF THE OVEN WITH A HEAPING SCOOP OR TWO OF VANILLA ICE CREAM.

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INGREDIENTS (Serves 4-6)

DIRECTIONS

Cake

Cake Layer

1 cup all-purpose flour ½ cup white granulated sugar ¼ cup cocoa powder 2 tsp baking powder ¼ tsp salt ¾ cup milk ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

Sauce ½ cup white granulated sugar ½ cup packed light brown sugar 3 Tbsp cocoa powder 1-¼ cups boiling water

RM KNAPP CONSTRUCTION

There are two layers to this cake.

Preheat oven to 350˚F. In a medium-size bowl, add flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder and salt. Stir in milk, melted butter and vanilla extract until combined. Add to a buttered and floured 9-inch square or round pan.

Sauce Layer In another bowl, combine sugar, brown sugar and cocoa powder.

Sprinkle this mixture over the cake batter in an even layer.

Carefully pour the boiling water over the top, being careful not to disturb the layers underneath. Do not mix the layers!

Bake for 30-35 minutes. The middle of the cake will still jiggle when removed. Wait 15 minutes before serving, but the cake is best served out of the oven on the day you bake it. OH

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decorating

The Art of

S T ORY A N G EL A S ERED N I CK I

LOOKING

UP

TIPS AND TRICKS TO DECORATE YOUR FIFTH WALL

When decorating your home, the ceiling is often an overlooked part of your room with tremendous potential.

Much like hanging art on your walls or adding a new rug to your floors, there are many ways to spruce up your ceilings to completely transform how a space looks and feels. Whether you’re freshening up a rental or designing your forever home, here are six different ways to transform your room from the top.

YORK WALLCOVERINGS: Evening Star Wallpaper

HINKLEY: Argo Medium Pendant in Sage Green

HINKLEY: Agave Large Multi Tier

HINKLEY: Nash Small Pendant

LIGHT IT UP

Ceiling lights are more than just functional, they’re a design statement that can make or break a space. A stunning chandelier, a sleek pendant or even a cluster of minimalist fixtures can infuse your space with personality. Switching light fixtures is also one of the easiest renter-friendly ways to make a home feel like your own.

ADD MEDALLIONS

Ceiling medallions are decorative disks that encircle ceiling light fixtures and are like jewelry for your ceiling. From traditional and ornate designs to more sleek and contemporary options, ceiling medallions are a great way to complement existing woodwork or crown moulding in a room.

PLAY WITH WALLPAPER

Why limit wallpaper to walls when you can adorn your ceiling? A beautifully patterned or textured wallpaper can transform your ceiling into a work of art, adding depth and intrigue to your space. Peeland-stick decals have also come a long way in recent years and are an alternative to get a similar look on a budget. Continued on page 34

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decorating

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BENJAMIN MOORE: Baby’s Breath OC-62

USE YOUR CEILING AS A BOLD ACCENT WALL ADD ARCHITECTURAL DETAILS

BENJAMIN MOORE: Chelsea Gray HC-168

Elevating a space with an accent colour on the ceiling is an unexpected way to enhance a space. If you’re looking for a unique way to add visual interest to your space, choose a neutral wall colour and a bolder shade for your ceiling. By doing so, you can create a truly striking and dynamic interior.

Ceilings are an excellent place to play around with architectural details, especially shiplap or exposed beams. Shiplap on the ceiling adds patterns and textures while making a space seem larger and brighter.

Similarly, exposed beams will add warmth and can preserve the rustic character of a room.

DON’T FORGET TO PAINT YOUR CEILING

The strategic use of coloured ceilings can influence the perceived dimensions of a room. Lower ceilings can appear taller when painted a shade or two lighter than the walls. In contrast, high ceilings can be visually lowered by painting them slightly darker, instilling a sense of intimacy.

For a dramatic effect, try colour drenching, which involves painting the ceiling, walls and trim the same colour.

ABBOTT: Large Hanging Planter

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ADD HANGING PLANTS TO YOUR CEILING

L

Did you know that adding plants to your home can boost your mood, increase productivity and enhance focus? If square footage is limited and you desire more greenery indoors, hanging plants from the ceiling or over a windowsill is an ideal way to make the most of vertical space. OH

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home & builder

Sto ry R a c h a el Hav en s | P h oto g r ap h y S a n d y Ma c K ay

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HOME AT LAST

Matthew and Amanda Fewell have long harboured a dream of living in Southampton. It started with Amanda’s childhood summers spent vacationing in the area with her family. She has longed for it ever since, and that feeling only grew when she brought Matthew to visit for the first time a decade ago.

above: The modern, coastal style of the home fits with the design of the homes found in the Southampton Landings community. The front door in Pearl is by Mastergrain. OPPOSITE: Matthew and Amanda Fewell appreciate the family-rooted and family-oriented lifestyle Southampton offers for their young children, Lyla, 3, and Wesley, 5. Riley the goldendoodle is happy with the move as well.

“Matthew fell in love with it, and this is where we always agreed we wanted to raise our family,” Amanda shares.

Matthew proposed to Amanda on one of their next visits. Now, the couple live in Southampton with their two kids. “It’s a family-rooted, family-oriented place for us,” Matthew explains.

Two years ago, when they were ready to make the move from the GTA, Matthew and Amanda brought Ben Freeburn from Alair Homes Grey Bruce on board to build a custom home in Alair’s Southampton Landing community. Shortly after, he handed things over to their project manager Shenay Hazelwood who was at the helm of the project. “She understood the assignment,” Matthew enthuses. The couple praise Shenay’s dedication and organization, noting, “she is somebody who goes above and beyond.

She is very well organized. She looked for different options and better quality.

She ensured transparency throughout the entire process.” Continued on page 38 ourhomes H oliday / W inter 2 0 2 3 / 2 4 | 37

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home & builder

above left: Gables add dimension to the front facade of the home, with white siding installed horizontally and vertically to add visual interest. LEFT: A Frame TV hangs over the gas fireplace in the main family room, which is a functional and spacious area that flows to the outdoor space at the rear of the property. Built-ins and floating shelves were supplied by Luxury Woodworking. ABOVE: Bigelow Flooring supplied and installed the Opus Floors Canada engineered hardwood in Alton Oak III. The leather sofa is from Structube.

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Shenay’s involvement was instrumental in making their forever home a reality. She, along with the whole Alair Homes team, played a pivotal role in delivering the project ahead of schedule and under budget, which was a pleasant surprise for Matthew and Amanda.

They praised Shenay’s problem-solving skills, emphasizing that there were no significant challenges during the build process. The Alair Homes process and proactive approach ensured that potential issues were addressed before they became problems.

At Alair, the project manager takes homeowners from start to finish for their custom-home build. “Everything is up to them,” Shenay explains, “but I’m helping make the process stress-free.” It starts with drafting

plans for the design phase, then quoting and budgeting, all before managing construction itself. The Alair process prioritizes planning beforehand. “We don’t just go in blind, which makes the process seamless,” she says.

Amanda describes the style of the home as modern coastal. “It has some beach elements, with the shiplap and some of the lighter wood tones,” she explains. “But we kept some of the elements from our old home, some Mid-century touches.” She has a special fondness for the open-concept kitchen, living and dining area. “It’s the main family room, and it flows right into the outdoor space,” Amanda says. “It’s where we spend most of our time as a family.” With two kids, this spacious and functional area is the heart of their home. Continued on page 40 ourhomes H oliday / W inter 2 0 2 3 / 2 4 | 39

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home & builder

Shenay, who has an eye for design herself, adds, “It’s very bright, but they have all the warm elements – woods, leathers, the gas fireplace.

I find the kitchen is probably my favourite, it’s stunning with the full quartz backsplash that extends up from the countertop. It’s also a functional space because it has elements like the coffee bar station.”

When asked about the unique features of their home, Matthew highlights the exceptional work of Luxury Woodworking in crafting the custom cabinetry. “They did a phenomenal job and really came through with the design from day one.” Additionally, the expertise of Bigelow Flooring exceeded expectations. Matthew and Amanda express their appreciation for the professionalism of all the trades and suppliers involved. Continued on page 42

Plumbing for the home was completed by Mike’s Plumbing Services, which also installed the kitchen and bathroom fixtures.

Below, Far LEFT: The waterfall staircase by Wood and Wallworks has slim-profile iron spindles. left: Porcelain tile in the mudroom and plenty of storage keep this area steps from the kitchen organized.

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Luxury Woodworking used slim Shaker-style fronts for the cabinetry in the kitchen.

Uppers and the pantry are painted Benjamin Moore White Heron, with base cabinets in a Distressed Pecan finish. Frigidaire Professional Series appliances were obtained through Canadian Appliance Source and installed by Alair Homes. LX Hausys Viatara Etude quartz counters were installed by Progressive Countertop. Opposite, top left: Project manager Shenay Hazelwood and Ben Freeburn of Alair Homes Grey Bruce. TOP RIGHT: Thoughtful additions, including the coffee station, help the home function for this busy family.

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home & builder

The office does double duty as a guest room, with a Murphy bed that is cleverly hidden when not in use.

Shenay also commends Adam’s Professional Painting. “Paint is the final touch that brings the house together before you decorate it. Painters put the cherry on top,” she says. Painting the walls, ceiling and trim the same shade in most rooms brings a sense of calm to the space.

Calm is exactly what Matthew and Amanda were seeking when they made the move to Southampton. “What gravitated us towards the area was being in compass with the beauty of nature,” Matthew says.

“Life slows down a little more up here for the

above: The home office is conveniently located by the front foyer. The Murphy bed panelling was crafted by Matthew Fewell.

Benjamin Moore Pale Oak walls contrast with the trim painted Vanilla Milkshake and installed by Wood and Wallworks. Painting for the home was completed by Adams Professional Painting. TOP RIGHT: The Southampton sign has pride of place above the desk, as the move to the area has been a dream come true for Matthew and Amanda.

FAR RIGHT: White Muskoka chairs and naturally-finished children’s chairs surround the firepit at the rear of the backyard.

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The hot tub is a relaxing escape at the end of the day and has a view of the towering trees that define the rear border of the property.

better, and we were able to slowly conform to the laidback lifestyle. A lot of it has to do with the people, and of course, the scenery. You get to experience a lot of what nature has up here, between the water, the beaches, the forest and the trails.” Continued on page 44

left: The vanity in the main-floor powder room was sourced through Teodor Vanities and installed by Alair Homes. The walls are painted Benjamin Moore Pale Oak. ABOVE: A bonus space over the garage is a play zone for the children and Riley.

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home & builder

above: The Maax Canada vessel tub in the primary en suite sits on a heated tile floor. Double windows fill the room with sunlight. The double vanity is from Teodor Vanities. ABOVE RIGHT: Oak flooring from the main floor continues to the upper level into the primary bedroom. Walls, trim and the soaring ceiling are painted Benjamin Moore Vanilla Milkshake. BELOW: The primary bedroom is bathed in light and a sense of calmness is achieved through minimal furnishings and bare walls. RIGHT: A linear drain in the generous primary shower follows the lines of the vertically-stacked subway tile. Continued on page 46

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home & builder

Matthew and Amanda have an incredible foundation to watch their family grow, in a place where they always dreamed of living. A decade after first visiting Southampton together, they are looking forward to the next decade, and beyond, of calling the town home. OH

top left: A nook in the bonus space over the garage is perfect for budding artists or engineers. TOP CENTRE: On the upper level, the family bathroom sits between Wesley’s and Lyla’s bedrooms. The tub/shower combination is lined with an artisan square tile in a neutral palette supplied and installed by Bigelow Flooring. TOP RIGHT: A giraffe is company at night for Wesley and the chest of drawers with leather pulls holds clothing. LEFT: Lyla’s daybed is dressed in soft pink bedding and throw pillows. An area rug is a cosy addition for little feet to land on in the morning. ABOVE: Wesley’s bed was sourced through Structube. The wainscotting for the feature wall adds contrast and substance.

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holiday hints S T ORY N I COLE HILT O N

PHOTO: YUMMY PIC

SHOP LOCAL Think outside the big box and support independent businesses in your own community. Make a point of shopping at stores on your main street or from vendors at holiday markets where you can find art, plants, handmade cards, soaps, candles, apparel and more. Make sure you tuck a business card into the gift, so the recipient knows it came from a retailer close by.

GIFTS WORTH

GIVING Holiday Season this

Everyone has that certain someone on their list who requires extra inspiration to shop for.

Take the guesswork out of finding the perfect gift and opt for one of these simple solutions this season. Santa will have nothing on you!

FOLI: Large ZZ Plant in White Pot with Wooden Stand

ARTECH: Canadianism Glasses

CAROLYN DRAWS: Gingerbread House Card Continued on page 50

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holiday hints ABBOTT: Fancy Winter Mouse Ornaments

ABBOTT: Sitting Cat with Lights Ornament

ABBOTT: Bull Terrier with Wreath Ornament

GOURMET DU VILLAGE: Red Ceramic Baker DAVID YOUNGSON: Goodmeasure 16-ounce Mocktail Measuring Cup

UNIQUE HOST AND HOSTESS GIFTS The key to bringing an unforgettable hostess gift is to give something that’s useful. Yes, cocktail napkins or a cheese knife could be considered passable, but considering other small gestures that are creative will be appreciated more. Try a personalized tree ornament, mocktail maker for dry January, winter bouquet of flowers, amaryllis or customized gift basket you’ve curated yourself to say thanks for including me on your guestlist.

FOOD GIFTS Consumables are a top pick for any age because there are so many options to choose from such as confectionaries, jams and gift sets. Some companies will even deliver pre-prepared frozen entrées, fresh meal kits or charcuterie boxes directly to the recipient’s door with an enclosed greeting from you. Food gifts are a favourite because they can be as generic or customized as you want them to be, depending on everyone’s taste!

DANICA STUDIO: Myth Block Print Large Tote Bag

EXPERIENCES This gift-giving trend is here to stay. People are craving interesting experiences more than ever and you can also benefit by planning to accompany the receiver on an adventure! Whether it’s something totally new like a one-day surprise road trip, dinner reservations at a special place, a brewery tour or ski lessons, good memories are the best gift of all. OH

SUSTAINABLE GIFTS

PROVISIONS FOOD COMPANY: Peach Prosecco Sparkling Jam

Eco-friendly products and reusable packaging are on everyone’s minds these days. A sustainable gift will show you care about the recipient’s well-being as well as the world we live in. Looking for B Corp certified brands, upcycled items, refillery stores in your area, and organic and natural products will help you become a more conscious consumer. Remember to select your giftwrapping method carefully by using tote bags instead of single-use bags, recyclable brown paper or newsprint or a wearable scarf to present your gift in.

GUESS WHERE TRIPS: Road Trip Gift Box

Nicole Hilton is a lifestyle expert from Thornbury.

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entertaining

Keep it Classic RING IN THE NEW YEAR AT HOME IN STYLE New Year’s Eve is one of my favourite holidays. I love the idea of celebrating the start of a new year and all of the excitement and possibility it brings. This season, let’s lean into tasteful, simple and fresh NYE festivities to keep it classic, modern, and of course – fun. I’m planning on ringing in the New Year while hosting an intimate dinner party for close friends and family. These are a few tips I’m using this year as I plan the evening with style in mind.

STO RY G REG O RY FA S T | P H OT OG R AP H Y L I S A MA RI E

TIP 1: Don’t Fall Victim To The Overdone NYE Décor When creating ambience for dining, embrace the romance of a new beginning. Keep things fresh and light – no need for overdone floral arrangements on your tablescape this year. I love the simplicity of classic fine dining candlelight paired with a beautiful place setting. Guests won’t feel overwhelmed and can enjoy the company and conversation.

While keeping décor classic, we can still have fun with a little NYE glam.

I love the idea of a hero moment for guests to enjoy throughout the evening.

A larger scale décor prop like a clock or life-size champagne bottle will win the show instead of lots of small, kitschy décor that can make the room feel messy. Plus, it’s the perfect photo op!

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TIP 3: Make It Fun With Thoughtful Party Activities

TIP 2: Create An Intimate And Unique Dining Moment Put a fresh spin on well-loved classics by stepping up the presentation. This year I am dazzling guests on arrival with a martini tower finished with stuffed olives. This is a fun way to re-invent the champagne tower!

For this event I want to create an engaging moment for guests. That’s why I love a handson dinner like fondue. To keep the display interesting and eye-catching, roll meats and skewer them. Instead of oil in your fondue pot, try using your favourite broth-based soup for added flavour – my favourite is onion soup. Plus, a beautiful display of breads, accoutrements and sides will round out the meal.

My favourite part? A “guest experience” also lightens the load of the host to prepare and plate numerous courses and meals – all while creating organic moments of conversation and activity.

I love sending a formal paper invitation to set the tone for the event.

A dress code is always an engaging way to liven up the night! This could be black tie, a colour theme, or even “come as you are.” I am asking my guests to dress in classic creams and champagne tones – a stylish colour palette that will have guests ready to strike a pose for a great social moment. Place Instax instant cameras throughout the event so guests can have fun capturing the evening’s special moments.

For final touches, include note cards and envelopes so guests can write down their new year’s resolutions and celebrate the start of something new.

At midnight, a flute of champagne and a kiss never go out of style. OH

Gregory Fast is an entertaining and events expert who hails from Burlington.

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decorating Invest in a Mattress Topper While the quality of your nightly sleep may depend on the mattress you use, it’s essential not to underestimate the importance of a mattress topper. Mattress toppers are convenient layers of padding that you place underneath your mattress cover and fitted sheet. They add a layer of warmth and offer support – perfect for the extra time spent in bed during winter.

The best part of all? You can find high-quality mattress toppers for under $200.

OBASAN: Classic Organic Wool Topper

EASTERN ACCENTS: Thom Filicia Beechwood Bedding paired with the Bay Point Striped Decorative Pillow and Bay Point Faux Bois Decorative Pillow

Winter BEDDING 101 S T ORY A N G EL A S ERED N I CK I

CREATING YOUR COSY HAVEN FOR COLD NIGHTS As the days get shorter and the temperatures begin to drop, the allure of a soft and warm bed becomes even more irresistible. Thankfully, making a welcoming bed for winter that rivals your favourite luxury hotel is easier than it seems. Follow these bedding tips to make your bed the cosiest place on earth.

Heated Blankets Make Everything Better Imagine returning from a winter walk and sinking into a bed with blankets fresh from the dryer. That’s the magic of a heated blanket. While not always needed, it adds a touch of luxury, creating an even cosier bed. Continued on page 56

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decorating SIMONS MAISON: Grey Topstitched Weighted Blanket

EASTERN ACCENTS: Niche Charlie Bedding Collection

Breathable Sheets for Better Sleep

The Power of Pillows

Opt for a Weighted Blanket

Winter traditionally calls for flannel bedding, but catering to your preferences is essential. Layer with breathable materials like bamboo or muslin if you run hot while sleeping. Opting for a lighter fitted sheet and top sheet allows you to stay warm without running the risk of waking up from overheating.

In addition to helping you get a restful night’s sleep, pillows play an important role in creating an inviting and stylish bed. The rule of thumb is five pillows for a queen-sized bed: Two Euro-sized pillows, two standard pillows, plus an accent pillow.

Weighted blankets are one of the easiest ways to get a better night’s sleep in the cold winter months. This is because the gentle pressure of a weighted blanket mimics deep touch pressure therapy, promoting relaxation and improving sleep quality. They increase the release of serotonin and melatonin, which are essential for regulating sleep and mood.

The Luxury of Layered Duvets

EURO-SIZED PILLOWS: These larger pillows (26 by 26-inches) at the back act as a sturdy foundation, adding elevation and a luxurious touch. They provide necessary support for sitting up in bed to read or watch television.

UNIVERSAL: Tranquility – Miranda Kerr Home Restore Upholstered Bed

Have you ever wondered how hotels have the fluffiest duvets? The industry secret is simple: Insert two duvets into one insert.

This trick is the secret to making you feel like you’re sleeping in a cloud. Enveloping yourself in an extra fluffy duvet is the foundation of a lavish winter bed.

EASTERN ACCENTS: de Medici Loure Faux Down Bedding

STANDARD PILLOWS: Placed in front of the Euro-sized pillows, standard pillows (26 by 20-inches) are where you rest your head. They’re your primary source of comfort and play a crucial role in promoting proper spinal alignment during sleep.

ACCENT PILLOW: This smaller, decorative pillow adds colour, texture or pattern to the arrangement. It’s a focal point and allows you to inject your style into the bed’s presentation.

UNIVERSAL: Nomad Bed

Consider Upholstered Headboards When you live in a climate where it can feel like winter lasts for most of the year, switching to an upholstered headboard can make all the difference.

Upholstery creates a base layer of softness and warmth, unlike wood or metal headboards. OH

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double take

TEENAGE dream

PHOTO: JASON HARTOG

RECREATE THIS LOOK IN YOUR OWN HOME.

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spotlight

Royal Family Ideal Builds You can’t control the weather outside during a home build.

That’s why Royal Homes has successfully built more than 10,000 custom homes inside their 110,000 sq. ft. manufacturing factory in Wingham. Building homes from the inside out in a controlled environment means no structural material or interior finish is exposed or damaged by inclement weather. This guarantees a Royal Homes custom home is airtight and engineered with precision so every angle, joint and interior finish is just right.

Throughout its 52 years in business, Royal Homes has only used top-quality construction materials, rigorous quality controls and a skilled and dedicated workforce to provide quality custom homes. Royal Homes adheres to the Ontario Building Code, all municipal by-laws, the Canadian Standards Association and their own 250-point inspection, creating custom homes and cottages that keep Ontario’s weather safely where it should be, outside!

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“A home you’ll love and an experience you’ll treasure.”

Peace of Mind Royal Homes stands behind each home it builds with a comprehensive inspection after one year and a dedicated service team that handles any client queries after they have moved in. The seven-year Tarion structural warranty is extended

by Royal Homes to give 10 years coverage in total, as well as a five-year, no-leak foundation warranty. This coverage ensures every home constructed by Royal Homes is built to last. OH

Customization With more than 40 house designs to peruse as a starting point, clients can make changes to any of those plans, creating a unique custom home or they can supply their own architectural drawings. Royal Homes has an in-house drafting department that supplies detailed floor plans for clients to review and make further decisions for interior and exterior finishes with the help of the team at their Wingham Design Centre. At the centre, you’ll find endless options for windows, doors, flooring, wall colours, kitchen cabinetry and tile for every room. These decisions are then incorporated into the final permit-ready drawings. Royal Homes provides a permit package that gives a turn-key solution, handling every step needed to have a site ready for the arrival of the new home, which will be delivered on time, on budget and stress-free.

Get There 40498 Amberly Rd., Wingham 519.357.2444 | royalhomes.com

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holiday tour

Chantry Island Cham-bettes 2022

Christmas Tour of Homes OUR HOMES takes you inside four beautiful homes on the Chantry Island Cham-bettes’ 2022 Christmas Tour of Homes. All proceeds raised from the tour are donated to the Saugeen Memorial Hospital, which has received more than $158,000 from this magical event over the past 14 years.

St ory S a ra Ma rt i n P ho t og r aph y S a n d y Ma cK ay

Cocoon of Joy As a principal of Bruce County Custom Cabinets & Dennison Homes, design professional Kaitlyn Shular has helped many homeowners bring their dream homes to life. So when it came time for Kaitlyn and partner Blake D’Angelo to build their own home, Kaitlyn had many distinctive ideas she wanted to include.

Their Dennison-built home with cabinetry

by Bruce County Custom Cabinets has a unique interior design full of personality – a perfect backdrop for holiday decorating. Most of the décor was sourced at K Interiors – owned by Kaitlyn and her mother Susan and located in Port Elgin.

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holiday tour

Colour, nature-inspired elements and unique details co-mingle with holiday elements that fill the home with joy.

Natural elements in the furnishings and décor mingle with gold and cream holiday items.

Garlands of sparkling balls, snowballs and leaves are casually draped on a mantel, over light fixtures and mirrors, while a holiday tree is laden with ornaments. Glass holiday trees follow the colour palette of the decorations and unite with the tropical plants that thrive in the home. In the primary bedroom, lanterns sit on a bench at the end of the bed, offering a welcoming beacon at the end of Christmas day. Continued on page 68

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Home Staging for Home Owners, Real Estate Professionals & Builders angelakensithomestaging.com 519.777.6290

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holiday tour The home’s expansive windows frame the wintery landscape that coordinates perfectly with the pastel colour scheme and coastal interior décor.

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Merry Coastal Heather Hart and Doug Seiler’s custom home sits on a forested lot steps from the shores of Lake Huron. It was built in 2018 by Seaman & Sons Builders. The great room’s vaulted, whitewashed pine ceiling shelters the spectacular tree centred in front of the double-height windows. It is one of four trees placed throughout the home. A fieldstone fireplace is surrounded by deep, comfortable, slip-covered seating, perfect for a snowy Christmas morning, its mantel draped with a lush garland and stockings ready to be filled on Christmas Eve. Continued on page 70

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holiday tour Steps away, the kitchen, with cabinetry

by Arbour Hill Custom Furniture & Cabinetry and appliances from Square Deal Neil’s TV & Appliances, is ready for the family to start the preparations for the holiday dinner. A large wooden bowl on the island is filled with ornaments that follow the pastel colour scheme of the home. On the lower level, younger members of the family enjoy a tree surrounded by plush toys, its boughs filled with childhood holiday delights.

Working with décor items from Accents Port Elgin, the homeowner has woven a tapestry that captures the warmth and delights of the holiday season. Continued on page 72

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We build excitement!

Your Premier Custom Home Builder in Southern Georgian Bay Robert Abbott, Owner Town of the Blue Mountains | 705.446.4831 | greatlakescustomhomes.ca

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The resource for fine design #5 Main St. W Markdale, ON N0C 1H0

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holiday tour

A Light, Bright Fantasy This home, designed and built by Matt Mulholland and Melissa Carr, with more than 7,600 square feet of living space, makes entertaining during the holidays its mission statement. A life-size Santa greets each visitor in the front foyer with a little dance and a “ho ho ho,” getting everyone in the mood to mix and mingle. The 18-foot tree in the living room on the main floor is festooned with silver balls and snowflakes, making an elegant statement. The dining room on the other side of the fireplace is located next to the kitchen that has a 17-foot island that seats eight people. Continued on page 74

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This unique, contemporary home with a neutral building block of white walls and black windows uses colour as a bold and exciting accent.

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holiday tour

Appliances were sourced from Square Deal Neil’s TV & Appliances. A three-storey custom steel staircase with glass railings, made by Jim and Charlie Feddema, ascends to the upper level, where each bedroom has its own unique festive additions. On the lower level, The Grinch makes an appearance beside the pool table and bar, while in the opposite corner, a petite white tree shines beside the shuffleboard. This home celebrates the holidays with colour, humour and a sense of wonderment that is enjoyed by everyone lucky enough to gather under its roof. Continued on page 76

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holiday tour

Every garland, present, wool throw and holiday item has been carefully considered to bring relaxation, comfort and glad tidings.

Serene French Country Built by Berner Contracting, this home backs onto a ravine full of mature trees, bringing nature to its doorstep and giving homeowners Paul and Sue Roberts a private setting to relax and entertain friends and family. Their daughter, designer Britt Hartel, was given carte blanche on the interior design. She created a casual, classic home with neutral tones and arched doorway features that add a sense of history. Britt used her talented eye to prepare the home for the holidays, selecting décor to enhance the home’s carefully considered finishes.

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holiday tour

Edited, festive touches are found throughout, including in the kitchen with custom cabinets

by Exquisite Wood Design. A natural wood board on the kitchen island holds walnuts, olives and cheese, while a freshly made loaf of crusty sourdough bread waits in a handmade pottery bowl. Cedar garland is a lush addition to the oak staircase and the fireplace mantel. A fresh tree is centred in the main-floor great room that allows it to be enjoyed from any vantage point. Gifts wrapped in brown craft paper with jeweltoned ribbon are placed on cosy beds ready for guests arriving for a magical, starry-night stay in this tranquil holiday haven. OH

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real estate

The Joys and Perils of

DOWNSIZING STO RY M E G A N S MI T H - H A RRI S | I L L U S T RAT I ON S S H EI L A BRI T T O N

My husband and I recently completed the process of downsizing from a large family home to a new house half the size. Not only did we grossly underestimate the amount of time and effort the process demanded but we put ourselves through a considerable amount of unnecessary emotional angst. Turns out, we’re textbook examples of doing everything the wrong way. It’s too late for us, but it’s not for you. Three experts offer practical advice on how to make downsizing a more manageable, less stressful process.

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BUY DIRECT FROM THE SAWMILL! FARM • RURAL • LAND

205526 Highway 26, Meaford

BUYER OF STANDING TIMBER | ALL DECKING MATERIALS BOARD & BATTEN | T&G SIDING WHITE PINE FLOORING | POST & BEAM Call us for current pricing and availability.

Beautiful brick bungalow on 37 acres! 2400 sq ft upstairs for main-level living. Many features include hardwood floors in most of the home. Spacious living room, family room, formal dining room, and great kitchen with breakfast room. Generous windows throughout let in tons of natural light. French doors in the primary bedroom lead to a private deck and similar doors in the family room lead to a large patio for entertaining or relaxing. Very private backyard and lovely views from the front porch. The basement includes an extra washroom, hobby room and recreation area. The large windows are good for future bedrooms should they be needed. There is a convenient second entrance to the basement from the garage. Geothermal forced air heating and cooling with living room wood fireplace. Bank barn with loose animal housing and good ceiling height. The property currently pasturing cattle. Many options for cropping or livestock or renting the land. Excellent location just outside of Meaford.

This is a delightful home.

Scott Crowther

Sales Representative Team Lead Advantage Realty Grey Bruce

519.379.7192 250 10th St. W., Owen Sound, ON N4K 3R3 scott@scottcrowther.com

ScottCrowther.com

www.moggievalleytimber.ca

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real estate SELL! SELL! SELL! Selling things online has never been easier and the proceeds can go towards your moving expenses. Have a yard sale or list items on Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist and eBay. If that’s too overwhelming, hire an auction house or estate sale company or donate.

DO GOOD Look for local non-profit organizations that provide furniture, clothing, household items and toys to those in need – Donation Town, Dress for Success, Goodwill, Habitat for Humanity, Mission Thrift, The Salvation Army, St. Vincent de Paul Society, Value Village etc.

SHOULD YOU HIRE A PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZER? TAKE STOCK

CREATE A FLOOR PLAN

“When downsizing, your primary objective is to take stock and identify what’s going with you to your new home,” says Alenka Manners, owner of Life Made Easier (lifemadeeasier.ca). “Identify what items family and friends wish to keep so those pieces don’t get sold, donated or tossed out.

Next, take measurements to ensure that bigger items will actually fit in the new space. Target one area such as a closet so it won’t be overwhelming. By choosing a small contained area, you can focus on the task at hand. It will empower you and give you confidence.”

My mother always said, “failing to plan is planning to fail,” and she wasn’t wrong.

Our experts agree that it’s critical to get a floor plan of the new space and to take note of the placement of doors, windows and closets. That giant sectional sofa that worked perfectly in your family room may not be optimal for your new 900 sq. ft. condo.

MANAGE EMOTIONS “It’s common to underestimate emotional attachments to possessions, making decluttering and downsizing challenging,” says Effy Terry, owner of Organize That (organizethat.ca). “To address this effectively, start early and use a systematic sorting system. Prioritize sentimental items and involve loved ones. Sharing stories can ease parting with items while preserving the emotional connection.

Designating a memory box and reflecting on downsizing goals, like simplifying life, can maintain motivation.”

PURGE, PURGE, PURGE We’re all guilty of holding on to random items just in case (hello ice cream machine and rusty golf club). Rebecca Shearer, a Certified Professional Organizer with Just in Time Solutions (justintimesolutions. com) says, “People find it easier to part with personal items when they know it’s going to a family member, friend, or an individual in need. A typical downsize from a family home should be reduced by 50 per cent.” But don’t expect the process to happen all at once. “Letting go of things happens in stages. There will be four purges: the first is giving things away, the second happens when you start to think about packing, the third is when you actually pack and the fourth occurs after you move.”

Can you do everything on your own? Yes. But do you really want to? If you can afford to hire a professional organizer it’s well worth the expense. Effy Terry sums up the benefits, “Professional organizers bring expertise and guidance to the process, offering tailored plans and strategies for efficient downsizing and decluttering. Their organizational skills help streamline sorting and categorizing items, optimizing your new living space.

Additionally, they can recommend creative storage solutions, facilitate resource connections, and save you time and stress ensuring a smooth transition to a clutter-free and well-organized living space.” Amen! OH

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Forest H

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MARK MURAKAMI | BROKER LAURA MURAKAMI | REALTOR® 21 Main Street East, Markdale, Ontario 519-270-6702 | mark@greycountyhomes.com

www.greycountyhomes.com 222 Plantt’s Point Road, Lake Eugenia

Enjoy winters on the slopes and summers on Lake Eugenia! This spacious home boasts 5 bedrooms, a huge post & beam addition and a boathouse with a rooftop patio all on a 1 acre lot with direct water frontage.

494164 Grey Road 2, Grey Highlands

Gorgeously renovated contemporary home on 3 acres minutes from your favourite Southern Georgian Bay attractions! Under 20 mins from Lake Eugenia, Beaver Valley Ski Club, Bruce Trail, Devil’s Glen, Osler Bluff, Thornbury, Collingwood and more!

112900 Grey Road 14, Southgate

An ideal family home, this completely updated raised bungalow features 6 bedrooms, stocked pond, 30x40 heated & insulated shop, acres of Managed Forest and 2000 feet of private Saugeen River frontage all on an attractive 26.88 acre lot.

503801 Grey Rd 12, West Grey

This stunning custom home puts an elegant spin on country living. Fine craftsmanship & thoughtful design blend seamlessly with the beautifully landscaped 49.75 acre lot.

Experience luxury living in a peaceful country setting!.

Contact Mark & Laura for property details!

LIFE AS IT SHOULD BE...IN BEAUTIFUL GREY COUNTY Beaver Valley | Lake Eugenia | Kimberley | Flesherton | Markdale | Berkeley | Priceville | Durham

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O U R

H O M E S

S P E C I A L

P R O M O T I O N A L

F E A T U R E

Empowering Women in the Skilled Trades: Breaking Barriers and Building Futures In an era of expanding horizons, women are increasingly making their mark in the skilled trades, demonstrating their invaluable contributions to a traditionally male-dominated industry. These resilient women bring diverse perspectives, unmatched determination, and a passion for innovation, shaping the trades in remarkable ways.

Historically underrepresented in fields like construction, welding, plumbing, and automotive, women are challenging stereotypes and forging their path to success in the skilled trades. Their pursuit of these careers often involves breaking through gender-related barriers and disproving age-old misconceptions about their abilities. Today, women are contributing significantly to the industry, showcasing their skills in construction projects, engineering solutions, and intricate craftsmanship, all while challenging gender norms.

Moreover, women in the skilled trades bring unique qualities and perspectives, fostering innovation and fostering diversity in the workplace. Their tenacity, attention to detail, and effective communication skills lead to enhanced problem-solving and collaboration. By encouraging young girls to explore careers in the trades and providing support for women already in these fields, we can continue to empower and celebrate women’s contributions to the skilled trades, ultimately creating a more inclusive, diverse, and vibrant industry.”

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OYAP is a School to Work program that opens the door for students to explore and work in apprenticeship occupations starting in Grade 11 or Grade 12 through the Cooperative Education program. The program is funded by the Government of Ontario.

The goals of OYAP are: • To provide students with the opportunity to start training in a skilled trade while completing the requirements for an Ontario Secondary School Diploma.

• To enable students to make the school to work transition by direct entry into apprenticeship training.

• To provide employers with the opportunity to train the skilled workers they require.

• To provide a viable solution to address the problem of skilled tradespeople shortages in general, and specifically the lack of young people joining the trades.

Contact Justin Graham at Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program Bluewater District School Board and Bruce Grey Catholic District School Board

351 1st Avenue North Chesley, Ontario N0G 1L0 226-256-1036

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people & places

Easy Living Life at home is much nicer and a little easier with help from these local experts.

Ph o t og r aph y Ki a n n a S u n shi ne

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Details Matter Homebuyers are looking at every little detail. They are seeing your listing with a fresh set of eyes that may notice things you don’t. We have the experience to set the stage for potential buyers. With the use of furniture, décor and key focal points, we will make your listing stand out on the market.

Angela Kensit

Angela Kensit Home Staging Co. When you are selling a home, first impressions count for everything! We work with realtors and homeowners to prepare homes, vacant or lived in, to ensure listing photos and showings highlight the property’s best attributes. We deliver magazine-worthy staging so buyers fall in love with each home and want to make it their own.

Make it Cosy Bring warmth to your home with strategically-placed pillows and blankets in your living room and bedrooms for the colder seasons. Add lamps and area rugs to create a comfortable and inviting atmosphere.

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people & places

Grey Bruce Design Studio

Photography: Interior, Grey Bruce Design Studio; Table Lamps, Artemide

Permanently relocating back to Ontario after many years living aboard, Robert Reid opened Grey Bruce Design Studio as an opportunity to share his wealth of knowledge and bring unique resources to the area. Working with clients from Grey Bruce through to Southern Georgian Bay and Muskoka, GBDS provides an exclusive range of architectural products, lighting, décor, new and vintage furniture, artwork and design services. Robert welcomes custom home builders, architects, designers, business owners and homeowners to visit, where they can discover unique products and discuss their projects.

Robert Reid

“A well designed space is all about the details.”

The Start After moving back to Canada, Robert discovered that many of the suppliers he had become accustomed to simply weren’t available in Toronto, let alone outside of the city. With robust development all around us, Robert offers expertise and quality resources directly to the region and provides builders and designers options they’ve never had access to. There’s something to be said for being surrounded by beautiful things.

HAREID Arts Robert is a vocal advocate for the visual arts and felt the area was missing a venue to introduce a range of work from a wide spectrum of artists. Featuring the art of local, Canadian and international artists, GBDS has an intimate gallery space with exhibitions year-round and looks forward to hosting events on a regular basis.

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MacDonald’s Brandsource We are a locally-owned family business that began in 1953. Macdonald’s exists to serve Georgian Bay communities by offering a broad selection of furniture, appliances, mattresses and home décor. We know the process of making choices for your home can sometimes be overwhelming. We are here to help.

Introducing Sharon Owen Sharon Owen is the furniture buyer and in-home design consultant at Macdonald’s. She was born and raised in the Georgian Bay area and has been working in this industry for more than 20 years. Sharon will bring her experience and trained eye to your space to help you revive, refresh or reinvent. Please contact the store to book an appointment with her.

Sharon Owen

In-Home Design Consultant

Exclusive Offering We have a brand-new Palliser Design Studio. On offer is an exclusive lineup of products from this legendary Canadian company not available to any other local retailer.

“It’s not just about picking furniture, I love working with our clients to create living spaces that they love to be in. Nothing is better!”

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people & places

John Thompson Movers A Canada Moving Company

John Thompson Movers is Canada’s largest familyowned mover, specializing in local, long distance and international moving, packing and storage services.

Done with Care The company has more than 125 years of experience moving Canadian families with care and servicing all points around the globe. We utilize modern fleets, proper equipment and trained staff to deliver expert services to every one of our clients.

Mike Bailey, Manager Amanda Bailey, Office Coordinator

Continued on page 92

“A higher standard of care.”

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people & places Geothermal Ground-source heat pumps require the installation of piping into the ground (photo below is an example of the process). The main advantage of ground-source heat pumps is their unmatched efficiency year-round, as the ground temperature remains constant, making geothermal the most efficient and cost-effective method of home comfort.

Marty Maisonneuve, Estimator & Chris Philp, General Manager

Ken Philp ClimateCare Ken and Marie Philp started the company in 1979. It has been proudly serving the Grey and Bruce region for 44 years. The company specializes in heating, cooling, geothermal, water and indoor air quality. We are a Lennox Premier Dealer and a member of the ClimateCare Cooperative, giving our clients peace of mind and great service. Our sales department has grown with Marty Maisonneuve joining the team!

Air Source Heat Pumps Heat pumps take heat from the air outside your home and use it for both heating and cooling in the summer. They are easy to install and therefore, a very popular choice in this region.

“We take pride in having the best people around to help with your plumbing, heating, cooling and electrical needs!”

Continued on page 94

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people & places

Sunset Blinds & Awnings We are a family-owned, full-service window treatment company located in the heart of Bruce County. From our free in-home consultation service through to install and warranty support, we have you and your windows covered. With showrooms in Port Elgin, Kincardine and Goderich, you can explore the latest trends and designs and know that your complete satisfaction is our goal.

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Luxurious Layers Combine functional blinds with customized drapery panels to add warmth and comfort to any space. Choose from bold prints, colourblocking designs or casual linen blends to create a finished look.

Total Room Coordination Shared fabric assortments across soft Roman shades, custom drapery panels and coordinating top treatments will finish any room with sophisticated flair. Add coordinating, matching throw pillows to tie the design together.

“Draperies and decorative panels are distinctive, bold and crafted with hand-tailored artistry that add softness and layers to any space.” OH

See our directory for All contact information.

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PHOTO: NICOLE MICHALOU

entertaining

HOST A E V I S S E PROGR PARTY

2. TRAVEL NS DESTINATIO Bonjour! Hola! Aloha! For this option each host or hostess decorates their home like the favourite place they’ve travelled to and serves an appetizer and/or drink reflecting that destination.

If you really want to get the party going, add some music from the region too. Your guests will feel like they’ve been around the world when they only went around the block.

Another option is to choose one travel destination like Italy and each house provides a different component to an authentic Italian dinner.

RIE 3. CHARCUTE WALK

Have you ever attended a progressive party? The basic concept is to organize a group of friends or neighbours, start at one house, and every hour on the hour, walk to another house. Each host or hostess provides a different experience typically consisting of the first house offering a cocktail, the second an appetizer, the third a main course, the fourth a dessert, and so on. The more houses you have, the more courses you can add. It’s a fun idea to try when everyone’s house is all decked out for the holiday season and a wonderful way to connect with your community for some festive cheer. Since no one is driving, there’s a safety angle to hosting this style of party (plus no expensive Uber ride required!). In fact, you’ll want to keep this concept in your back pocket for entertaining right through the winter months.

Aside from the traditional progressive party agenda where each host provides a different component to the movable feast, there are plenty of different themes you can come up with and divide among several homes. Here are three crowdpleasers to get you started.

PHOTO: JENIFOTO

ST O RY ILTO N N IC O LE H

HT

1. GAME NIG

Sorry NHL fans, this isn’t a theme for you! With this concept each host or hostess will organize a game for everyone to play.

Try to include games that use different skills since participants will have their own strengths and weaknesses providing a full night of entertainment. Some suggestions include Pictionary, poker, Things in a Box, karaoke and ping pong. If you’re feeling extra inventive, turn your house into an escape room and see who makes it out the front door when the hour’s up!

It’s common knowledge that everybody is tired and full of cheese during the holiday season. Feed into that notion and host a charcuterie-themed neighbourhood stroll. Each house can feature a different cheese and wine pairing like Champagne (or prosecco) and brie, Malbec and gouda, or Sauvignon Blanc and goat cheese.

Make sure to include a non-dairy and alcohol-free option at one or more of the stops as well.

PRO PARTY TIPS: Remember to provide a map with house addresses for your guests in advance and to wear sensible shoes for walking. OH Nicole Hilton is a lifestyle expert from Thornbury.

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BIRD LINGO Albatross. Eagle. Birdie. Bird words? Nope, golf lingo. Every sport, hobby or activity seems to develop a language of its own – one that often only those involved understand. The sport of birding is no exception. Bird lingo abounds in the vocabulary of birders.

Eastern Bluebird

PHOTO: LYNNE RICHADSON

birding

BIRD is the WORD STORY LYNNE RI CHARDSON

“WELL-A EVERYBODY’S HEARD, ABOUT THE BIRD BIRD, BIRD, BIRD, BIRD IS THE WORD WELL-A, EVERYBODY KNOWS THAT BIRD IS THE WORD.” Surfin’ Bird – Song by the Trashmen

These days, the popularity of birding is increasing, driven by younger demographics, and super-accelerated by the pandemic, which sent people out into open spaces in droves.

Once out there, while tuning into nature, surprising numbers of people discovered birds, photographed birds and got interested in birding and bird photography. Around the same time, word about the Merlin app spread fast. This app records birdsong around you and pops up an identification on your phone, making the formerly difficult task of identifying one species from another much easier. With so many new fans, birding has evolved into a cool, interesting, fascinating and popular pastime.

But for those newer to birding, as you delve deeper into the sport, you may be baffled by some of the words experienced birders bat about. A secret language even, (defined as a language used only by members of a group). As such, a bird-words primer may be helpful. So, as you hang up your binoculars for a bit of a winter break, it’s a good time to learn the lingo that has evolved.

One of the first terms a neophyte birder may come across is lifer. A lifer is simply a coveted first-time sighting of any bird a person has never seen before. A new tick on your Life List. Yes, most birders keep a record of every species they see on their Life List. Adding a new species to this list is what keeps you in pursuit of new-to-you sightings, and it’s what keeps the game interesting. Keeping a Life List is easy. You might start with a Yard List on your own property. That is a great way to while away the winter months when your feeders are most active. But come spring migration, any number of new species may take a rest-stop break in your yard. Your list will grow surprisingly fast.

Many birders like to sort their sightings into other lists as well – perhaps a city or county list, your province, country, even a world list. Too many lists to keep track of?

Nope! Each of these lists can be sorted for you if you enter your sightings into eBird!

eBIRD eBird is one of the largest natural history databases in the world, developed to capture the vast numbers of bird observations made each year by both hobby and professional birders. Simply enter where you were birding and select all the birds you identified on the provided checklist. Everyday recreational sightings contribute enormously to the data formerly collected by biologists alone. eBird transforms even your most casual sightings into scientific data. You’ve become a Citizen Scientist, and you have access to all your records at your fingertips, to boot.

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PHOTO: NIGEL EVES

PHOTO: DALE DARCY

LIFERS AND LISTS

As a new birder you may be frequently asked “What was your spark bird?” Many have a certain sighting or moment that sparked their interest in birds, and for some reason, drew them into the world of birds. A spark bird can be any species – a grand eagle, a gorgeous woodpecker, even an obscure LBJ (little brown job) that mesmerized you with its song.

PHOTO: NIGEL EVES

Red-headed Woodpecker

FOY JOY Spring migration brings on a whole range of words to describe what’s happening at this most birdy time of year. Seeing a familiar species for the first time in the year gives you a shot of happiness, or FOY joy (First Of Year). It’s not unusual to hear birders say “that’s FOY joy.”

If you see a group or a flock of birds in migration, you are witnessing vis-mig – visible migration, which you scan with your bins (binoculars) or scope (telescope) to start the ID process by their GISS – their general impression of size and shape. “It has the GISS of a buteo, not a falcon.”

ALPHA CODES

Occasionally, a rare, but truly amazing phenomenon occurs during spring migration, when a bad-weather front stops a major migration in its tracks, forcing the birds down to the ground. In these fallout situations, it can almost literally be raining birds, resulting in an awesome experience for birders. Not so much for the beleaguered birds.

Now just when you think you’ve mastered the commonly used bird lingo, you’ll begin to hear birders refer to birds by strange fourletter code words. The common Mourning Dove is a MODO, American Robin is an AMRO, Turkey Vulture is a TUVU, and on it goes. These alpha codes originated with bird banders but have become mainstream in general birding thanks to their usefulness when, say, hurriedly writing down birds seen on your outing, or calling out attention to a flyby. The codes are generally composed of the first two letters of a bird’s name, as you may have noticed above. They make for some interesting calls out in the field – “GREG overhead!” (Great Egret).

GOOD BIRDS If you’re lucky, one day you may chance upon a stray, vagrant, over shooter or accidental – a bird that has somehow flown or been blown off-course, far beyond their home territory. This is exciting stuff and these special sightings, of course, have another set of descriptives.

Some strays show up each year, generally overshooting the north edge of their home range. These are considered a good bird. But then some are so rare that they are honoured with the title mega, mega tick or crippler! A first sighting ever in a region, such as in all of Ontario or Canada, is a mind-blowing mega. These are birds that tend to be from entirely different continents! How do they get here? These are birds that twitchers (extremely keen birders) chase (not literally; just drive, fly or otherwise get to the location of the mega as soon as possible, usually dropping everything to go).

These rarities are birds that twitchers chase when they’re doing a Big Year. Many an avid birder decides at some point to see as many birds as they can in one year, striving for a personal best, or even a county, province, country or world record!

More commonly, birders will do a Big Day, often to raise money for charity, and will bird for a full 24 hours, usually in the peak of migration to maximize their sightings.

White Wagtail from Eurasia (Mega tick)

FUZZY LI’L BIRB Finally, there is the less serious side of describing certain birds, often used to comment on internet images. Birb, or berb, is a deliberate misspelling of bird and is used as an affectionate term for cute little birds – “fuzzy li’l berb,” “sweet li’l birb.”

PHOTO: NIGEL EVES

SPARK BIRD

FALLOUT

PHOTO: NIGEL EVES

PHOTO: LYNNE RICHADSON

Bald Eagle

Yellow Warbler

So with this bird-word primer I wish you many lifers in the year ahead, whether you’re on a big year, a big day, chasing new ticks and mega accidentals for your Life List, or simply revelling in spring’s FOY joy, experiencing a fabulous fallout, or basking in the simple everyday pleasures of your common backyard AMROs and MODOs. And may the EABL of happiness follow you throughout the year! OH ourhomes H o l i d a y / W i n t e r 2 0 2 3 / 2 4 | 99

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in the kitchen

ORGANIZE YOUR FRIDGE STORY BAILEY FRANKLYN | ILLUSTRATION SHEILA BRITTON

There is a proper way to organize your fridge. Those drawers at the bottom aren’t just for hiding wilted spinach and forgotten herbs. A well-organized fridge not only looks good, but it ensures food safety and food quality.

HERE IS HOW YOU SHOULD ORGANIZE YOUR FRIDGE: The Top Shelf: Ideal for ready-to-eat foods, leftovers, drinks and foods that do not require cooking. By keeping these foods on top, you are limiting the risk of potential cross contamination from raw meat or fish. Foods that don’t require cooking should never be stored under raw meat, just in case there is some unintentional drippings.

That can lead to a food poisoning nightmare.

The Middle Shelf: You might have one or two, depending on the size of your fridge. It’s the most consistently cold area, so it’s perfect for eggs, milk, yogurt, deli meats and cheese. Alternatively, you might have a small drawer in the middle of your fridge, where you can also store deli meats or cheeses.

The Bottom Shelf: Also consistently cold. Store your raw meat or fish here. It’s best to store raw meat on the bottom shelf, so that if it drips or leaks, there’s a smaller chance it will contaminate something that doesn’t require cooking (or cooking to the same temperature).

The Drawers: They are intended to control humidity. If you have two drawers, one is high humidity (for berries, broccoli, lettuce, peppers and cucumbers) and the other is low humidity (apples, pears, kiwis and peaches). In an ideal world, one of these drawers would be used for raw meat, since it’s at the very bottom, with nothing below it. But if you need to use both for produce, consider keeping your raw meat in a clear plastic container or bin.

The Doors: This is the warmest part of the fridge, so store foods that are not sensitive to temperature changes here. It’s perfect for condiments, jams, hot sauce, canned or bottled drinks and juices.

IF YOU GET THE SUDDEN URGE TO ORGANIZE YOUR FRIDGE, THERE ARE SOME STEPS TO TAKE FIRST: 1. Give it a good clean. Take everything out, including the shelves and drawers. Wash everything with hot, soapy water and then dry with a clean cloth. Throw out any food that is expired, growing mould or you know you won’t eat.

2. Restock your fridge in the proper order. If you have multiples of things (milk, yogurt, pickles), put newer, unopened containers behind opened ones that you want to eat first.

3. Label containers. This step is optional, but if you’re prone to putting something away and forgetting what it is, or when you made it, save yourself the food waste and headache by adding the date and what it is to some tape and stick it on the container.

After the holidays or early in the New Year is a great time to clean and organize your fridge. Out with the old and in with the new. OH

Bailey Franklyn is a Registered Dietitian living in Meaford.

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cooking at home

MUSHROOM AND LENTIL

REC I P E AND P H OT OGRAP H Y J EN EL L E MCCULLO CH

Stew

ADD THIS RECIPE TO YOUR MEATLESS MONDAY LIST! THIS VEGETARIAN STEW IS HEARTY AND SATISFYING WITH ONLY A FEW BASIC INGREDIENTS.

INGREDIENTS (Serves 4) 1 Tbsp cooking oil (olive or avocado) ½ cup shallots or onion, diced 2 cups sliced mushrooms 2 Tbsp soy sauce Salt and pepper 1 Tbsp flour 2 Tbsp fresh herbs (thyme or rosemary) 2/3 cup dried lentils, rinsed and drained*

1 Tbsp tomato paste 2-3 cups vegetable broth 3-4 cups mashed potatoes, to serve *Soak lentils overnight for better digestibility, but not required.

DIRECTIONS In a large pot over medium heat, add oil and shallots.

Sauté for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Add mushrooms and soy sauce and sauté for 5 minutes.

Add salt and pepper to taste. Add flour and stir until combined.

Add herbs, lentils, tomato paste, and 2 cups of vegetable broth.

Reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, adding more broth as needed.

Once lentils are cooked and tender, taste and adjust for seasoning.

Get more recipes at ourhomes.ca/blogrecipes

Serve over mashed potatoes and enjoy! OH

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Blended Interiors

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Universal Builders

Blended Interiors is a dynamic interior design collective specializing in creating beautiful unique spaces that meet our clients’ functional needs and personal style.

“We believe each project is an opportunity to create exceptional design and custom details true to the individual who makes a house a home”.

As a successful design partnership since 2017, Blended Interiors has nearly 20 years of combined experience in the industry and aspires to deliver quality interior and exterior concepts and designs to all their clients no matter the scale of the project.

Blended Interiors believes that a well executed home design is the benefit of having a trusted and knowledgeable designer as part of the renovation and/or new build process.

The blended team is committed to working with homeowners to create spaces that speak to them on a personal level. Each voice in the design process has something to offer to the end-product and Blended Interiors listens.

To find out more about how Blended Interiors can collaborate with you on making your vison come to life, set up a discovery call to learn more about their services.

519.370.0855 hello@blendedInteriors.com 235 10th St W, Owen Sound blendedInteriors.com

Markdale Flowers is a family owned local florist offering unique and quality gift and décor items for every occasion, and every budget.

Markdale Flowers carries a large assortment of fresh flowers and tropical plants and seasonal plants, as well as a trendy selection of home décor and gifts. Come check out our holiday décor.

Shop from our wide selection of floral designs, bountiful bouquets, and other creative floral arrangements to send a meaningful gift for the holidays. Be prepared with the best gift for memorable days like Christmas, New Years and Valentines Day, when deciding on a gift can be tough.

Consider sending our bouquet of the month club subscription as a great gift that gives all year long.

Markdale Florist works hard to craft outstanding, personalized floral arrangements and provides exceptional customer satisfaction to our clients.

Did you get engaged? We can help you to make it the celebration of your dreams.

We offer full bridal bouquets, ceremony flowers, reception decor rentals, marquee letters, and much more.

We invite you to come in and see our variety of creative options. We’ll gladly create something especially for you.

Join our community of happy customers in Markdale and surrounding area by ordering and supporting your local florist.

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This year we celebrated 10 years of being your source for local! The Market Shoppe has been bringing you Ontario’s best since 2013 in beautiful Markdale.

The gift of local is always welcome for the holidays!

Stop in and check out our variety of delicious options for gifts, snacks, and everyday groceries. We are excited to build you custom gift baskets for anything from a hostess gift to larger orders of gifts for all your staff! With the love we put into these, placing all orders early is helpful. Don’t forget to ask for some of our fresh baked cookies!

While you are here, check out our freezer filled with fullycooked frozen meals. We make a variety of meals and soups in-house. Cosy up with one of our Chicken Pot Pies, our Bacon Market Mac or a bowl of Mom’s Chicken Noodle Soup. For dessert, warm up some apple crisp.

The fridges and freezers are filled with a variety of quality produce, meats and cheeses.

Our friendly staff will help you find JUST what you need.

Everything in the store is an Ontario product so you are supporting your neighbours with every purchase.

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At Universal Builders, we take pride in our knowledge of all aspects of building and renovating. We believe the more we know, the better we can assist our clients.

We enjoy a personal approach when it comes to renovating or adding to your space or building a new house for your family – every detail is custom to you! Nothing is preselected. Our best quality is our craftsmanship; a house built by Universal Builders is a house that will last! It is built with the highest quality products and with superior knowledge – our team possesses over 100 years of experience together.

Universal Builders builds houses from the ground up, taking care of your entire project from breaking ground right to hanging the mirrors in your new dream home! We take care of the small details for you and let you enjoy the journey. We provide advice to enhance your space and ensure that the process is efficient and as economical as possible.

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feature

Wiarton in the 1890s was a busy little village with a population of several hundred people, boasting four mills, a foundry and a brand-new train station.

In 1893, the Reckin family, owners of the local grist mill, built a sizeable brick home overlooking the growing town and the bay beyond.

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R

Reckin House was home to the family for two generations before being sold and turned into an inn. It was a warren of small rooms – many of them windowless. The house slowly fell into disrepair and eventually sat empty. It spent the next few decades collecting dust and then water stains as rain made its way through the cedar shingles.

This is the house Elsie and Jorn Christensen stepped into when they purchased it in 1974. Intending to rent the home at first, they quickly realized it cost more to heat than they could make in rent. Already busy running a bed and breakfast, and then moving abroad, the Christensens put the home on the back burner, thinking they might one day turn it back into an inn.

Thirty years later, they decided it was time to restore the house on Prosperity Hill.

“One day,” says Elsie, “Jorn said, ‘Why don’t we have it for ourselves?”

“In the beginning, we would come over here, look at all the stuff we had to do, then shake our heads and go back home,” says Jorn, laughing. Continued on page 106

top: The rebuilding of the turret was pivotal in restoring the original look of the home and was part of the redesign of the cedar-shake roof supplied by Wiarton Home Hardware Building Centre and installed by Dave McCowan.

Stonework was completed by RG Masonry. ABOVE: A photo of the home at the turn of the century is indistinguishable from the restoration. OPPOSITE: The original interior vestibule doors highlight the intricately crafted front double doors that are also original to the home. New hardwood flooring in maple and oak came from Bruce County Flooring and Floorcrafters.

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feature

They hired Dave McCowan, who they had worked with before, and began to plan the monumental task before them.

“We were a little afraid of its historical designation because that means you can’t do anything to the outside,” says Jorn. “What Dave has done is add to it. Dave really has an eye for this – we’ve tried to keep the Queen Anne style.”

It was an enormous job, but the Christensens were able to take their time.

From their residence just up the street, they could come by to watch the work.

“Only took us eight years,” quips Jorn.

“Ten altogether,” amends Elsie. “But we had lots of time.”

“And we could change our minds as we went along,” Jorn agrees.

They started by addressing the leaking roof. Water had made its way all the way down to the ground floor, and the original hardwood was ruined.

“Dave gutted it all, right down to the twoby-fours,” says Elsie. “It’s like having a new house inside an old house.”

Keeping up the spirit of the original build was important to the Christensens, even while a complete interior rebuild was underway.

Continued on page 108

top left: Dave McCowan, Elsie and Jorn Christensen stand by the pocket doors that can be closed to create two smaller spaces in the living room. ABOVE: The layered design of the furnishings is in keeping with how the interior of the home would have appeared shortly after it was built. The wall colour is Benjamin Moore Serendipity. LEFT: The recently completed garage, designed by Dave McCowan and built by Foster-Long Carpentry, was carefully designed to look as if it has been on the property as long as the home.

The roof was installed by Hy-Grade Steel Roofing. Paul Miller Landscaping and Excavating finished the exterior areas of the property and a furnace was installed

by Grey County Gas Service.

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Babla bla bla bla bla bla.la bla bla bla bla bla bla blah bla. Bla bla bla blah bla bla bla blah blah blah blah bla. la bla bla bla bla bla.la bla bla bla bla bla bla blah bla.

The richness of the elegant woodwork in the front hall is accented by the wall colour, Benjamin Moore Turmeric. Wayne Fleming worked with many of the authentic trim pieces and when necessary, matched new pieces to blend seamlessly.

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feature “It’s a fine line,” says Jorn, “And we tried to keep the original features as much as we could, all through the house. We looked at a lot of other Ontario heritage homes. You can buy these books with these beautiful old homes in them. We got a lot of ideas from those books.”

In one such book, they found their home’s twin, another 1890s home by the same builder, identical to Reckin House but in reverse.

Located in Sarnia, the house is a museum.

Reckin House is rich with original features, including restored interior doors and woodwork, original tile around a decorative fireplace and an oriel window with a view of the water. Rebuilding the iconic turret, which had gone up in smoke in a fire in the 1960s, was key to restoring the look of the home and part of the larger project of designing a new roofline (Dave McCowan and Wiarton Home Hardware Building Centre) that would include gables and a dormer to let more light into the upper storey.

One of the most important elements to the Christensens was the addition of a sunroom off the south-facing kitchen. It’s the room where they now spend the most time. They were also eager to have a built-in library (this and other woodwork by Wayne Fleming) to shelve Jorn’s book collection. Continued on page 110

The dining table is set for the holiday dinner. The rich blue of the Persian carpet highlights the Benjamin Moore Moroccan Spice walls. Many of the light fixtures for the home were discovered at Aberfoyle Antique Market and Home Depot.

LEFT: Jorn and Elsie spent a few years in Geneva, Switzerland, where they discovered this cupboard.

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above: Mucha art-styled nouveau tiles were incorporated into the wainscotting of the upper-level bathroom. RIGHT: Wayne Fleming crafted the vanity from a chest of drawers and a marble top that were found separately at the Habitat for Humanity Grey Bruce ReStore to form a period composition. Walls are painted Benjamin Moore Grasshopper. Plumbing was completed by Ed Hopkins The Plumber. BELOW: The Benjamin Moore Catalina Blue cabinets in the kitchen were constructed by Wayne Fleming with counters from the Stone Shop and installed by Mario Nunno. The backsplash is Mucha art nouveau tiles.

The addition of the sunroom created a space where the Christensens spend most of their time.

The table is set in a traditional Danish style for the holidays. Walls are painted sunny Benjamin Moore Weston Flax.

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feature

The home’s layout is otherwise quite like what the Reckins would have enjoyed at the turn of the 20th century, apart from the expanded ground-floor bathroom, and a rear bedroom that the Christensens turned into a bachelor apartment with a separate entrance. A recently completed garage built by Foster-Long Carpentry has been carefully designed to look like it has always been part of the architecture.

The house is finished with hardwood oak and maple (Bruce County Flooring and Floorcrafters) and furnished with beautiful antique pieces that the couple collected through the years. Antiques include a three-piece wooden storage set originally from Korea in lemon yellow, purchased from a flea market in Ottawa. The liquor cabinet is a towering dark wood piece from England they got from an antiques dealer in Stittsville.

Stained glass above the front door and in the stairwell were sourced from Kijiji listings. The Christensens undoubtedly have an eye and great patience for finding the perfect piece to finish a room. Continued on page 112

On the second level, Jorn’s book collection is shelved in built-in cabinetry completed by Wayne Fleming. Porter Electrical updated the home’s electricity system. RIGHT: The third level of the home takes its design style from the 70s and Jorn and Elsie have collected furnishings that transport visitors. The turret room is painted Benjamin Moore Kittery Point Green. Paint for the home was sourced through Grey Bruce Paint and Decor. BELOW: The vast third-level space has a bedroom suite and this large open-plan entertainment area. Lighting above the table is from Ikea. Heating and cooling for the home was installed by Joe Shipley Sheet Metal and Mechanical.

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Call Linda Urbshott for your free in-home consultation!

519.793.3921 BudgetBlinds.com

Finishing Touches

Kitchen

Flooring

Bath

Ask us about Beaver Homes. Many designs available. a division of the Wiarton Home Building Centre

160 Berford St., Wiarton ON 519.534.5599

wiartonhhbc.com

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feature

A bedroom on the second floor is home to a Korean three-piece wooden storage set that includes a chest-on-stand that the Christensens found in Ottawa. Walls are Benjamin Moore Pink Mix.

The colours were all selected by Cheryl Lyn Morrison Design, including the soft yellow of the sunroom, the summery sage of the turret, and a paprika red in the bedroom that sets off powder blue Persian rugs.

The Christensens’ love of their home is evident in the details, and in their voices as they talk about the journey of the restoration.

“We have a fatal attraction to houses like this,” admits Jorn. “It’s not the first one we’ve done. But it’s the last one.”

In 2019, Reckin House was nominated for the Peter Stokes Restoration Award by Architectural Conservancy Ontario. It was simply a well-earned acknowledgement of the labour of love that had been the rebuilding of Reckin House.

Wiarton in 2023 is a bustling place, a through-town for tourists traveling up the Peninsula. The mills are gone, the foundry and the train station, too. But Reckin House still stands overlooking the motion below, of people, cars and the bay, from its place on Prosperity Hill. OH

LEFT: A desk is positioned to enjoy the view of the street below and the water.

ABOVE: A large tapestry hanging in the main stairwell can be viewed from the upper level. Throughout the home, historically correct décor is intermingled with personal items the Christensens have gathered through their travels over the years, adding a deeply personal stamp on this spectacular home.

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crafty ideas

Faux Vintage

SLEIGH BELLS CREATE THESE FAUX VINTAGE SLEIGH BELLS AND ADD SOME NOSTALGIC CHARM TO YOUR HOLIDAY CELEBRATIONS.

PR O J EC T AN D P H OT OG RAP H Y ERI N RO CH O N

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Next, flip the bowl upside down and, using the glue gun, secure a wooden ring on the centre of the bowl. Once dry, apply Gorilla glue to anchor it in place.

MATERIALS 4 small aluminium planters

Use Gorilla Glue to secure the small bowl to the bottom of the pot and let dry.

Black matte spray paint Small bowls (that fit on the bottom of the plant pot) Hammer Jute rope Embroidery hoop – inside hoop only Wooden rings Metallic gold and silver acrylic paint Yarn Paintbrush Glue gun and Gorilla Glue 220 sandpaper 4 Nails

Then, paint the bell and embroidery hoop in metallic gold.

Once dry, use the sandpaper to lightly distress the edges to allow the black paint to show through.

Next, paint the inside of each pot with silver paint. Apply a touch of silver paint around the edges and add intricate details for a weathered appearance.

HOW-TO In a well-ventilated area, spray paint the planters and bowls black.

Follow these steps for each bell:

Using the yarn, tie a knot around the nail and secure it in place with hot glue.

Cut two lengths of jute rope at varying heights. Fasten one bell to the end of the rope and thread the other end through the hoop.

Attach the bell to the opposite end and wrap a small amount of rope to conceal the knot. Repeat these steps with the other bells.

Use a hammer and nail to make a hole in the bottom of the pot.

Place the yarn through the hole and make a knot. Apply a drop of hot glue to anchor the knot in place on the bottom of the pot.

Stagger the height of the bells. Wrap a small amount of rope approximately four inches below the hoop and use a drop of hot glue to secure it in place.

Hang your sleigh bells on your front door, over a mantel or in your foyer to ring in the festive season! OH ourhomes H o l i d a y / W i n t e r 2 0 2 3 / 2 4 | 115

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directory OUR HOMES attracts the area’s finest businesses to advertise in our pages, and utilize our unparalleled distribution and coffee-table appeal to market their products and services. We’re making it easier for you, our readers, to become educated as you plan your home- and real estaterelated purchasing decisions. View these business ads online at ourhomes.ca. The listings below are organized alphabetically by industry.

ANTIQUES/REPRODUCTIONS Aberfoyle Antique Market, 111 APPLIANCES Macdonald’s Brandsource, 2 Square Deal Neil’s TV & Appliances, 67 ART/ARTISANS/ART GALLERIES/ STUDIOS/WORKSHOPS Interior Motives, 24 builders Alair Homes, 45 Good Little Builders Inc., 16 Great Lakes Custom Homes, 71 High R Construction, 75 Miller’s Home Hardware Building Centre/Beaver Homes, 13 Pineridge Log & Timber Frame, 21 The Great Lakes Frame Company, 124 Universal Builders, 6, 103 Valley Home Improvements, 49 Wiarton Design Centre div of Wiarton Home Building Centre, 111 BUILDING/LANDSCAPE SUPPLIES Centre Grey Building Supplies, 117 Flesherton/Markdale Home Hardware, 117 Miller’s Home Hardware Building Centre/Beaver Homes, 13 Moggie Valley Timber Inc., 81 Wiarton Design Centre div of Wiarton Home Building Centre, 111 CABINETS & MILLWORK/ CARPENTRY/FINE WOODWORKING/ CUSTOM FURNITURE Great Lakes Woodworking Elmwood, 75 Luxury Woodworking, 62&63 Topnotch Furniture, 59 COUNTERTOPS City Stone, 17 The Old Barn, 4&5 DRYWALL/PLASTER/STUCCO Meg’s Drywall, 93 EDUCATION Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP), 84&85 Simcoe County District School Board, 84&85 Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board, 84&85

FENCING/DECKS/GATES Built Wright Fencing, 10 Postech Grey Bruce, 79 Precision Deck and Fence, 15 FIREPLACES & STOVES/ACCESSORIES Chantico Fireplace Gallery, 23 Pratt Plumbing and Heating, 16 The Fyre Place & Patio Shop, 57, 113 FLOORING Conway Furniture, 51 Cuneo Interiors Carpet One Floor & Home, 8, 35 Moggie Valley Timber Inc., 81 South Bruce Flooring, 121 FLORAL DESIGN/FLORISTS Markdale Flowers, 49, 103 FOOD & DRINK/RESTAURANTS/ CATERING/DELI Good Family Farms, 101 The Cook’s Cupboard, 101 The Market Shoppe, 97, 103 Top of the Rock, 117 FOUNDATIONS Cook Concrete, 93 Postech Grey Bruce, 79 FURNITURE & HOME DECOR/ ACCENTS/GIFTS/COLLECTIBLES Conway Furniture, 51 Country Charm Mennonite Furniture, 55 Fulford Bathware, 33 Grey Bruce Design Studio, 71 House Rules Design Shop, 113 Interior Motives, 24 Macdonald’s Brandsource, 2 Smitty’s Fine Furniture, 123 The Fyre Place & Patio Shop, 57, 113 Topnotch Furniture, 59 Wiarton Design Centre div of Wiarton Home Building Centre, 111

Pratt Plumbing and Heating, 16 Sandy Hamilton Plumbing & Heating Inc., 79 HOME IMPROVEMENTS/ RENOVATIONS Good Little Builders Inc., 16 Great Lakes Custom Homes, 71 RM Knapp Construction, 31 Spring Ridge Contracting & Design, 17 Valley Home Improvements, 49 INSULATION Airtight Insulation Solutions, 93 High R Construction, 75 INTERIOR DESIGN/HOME STAGING Angela Kensit Home Staging, 67 Blended Interiors, 33, 103 Collective House Design Inc., 49 Cuneo Interiors Carpet One Floor & Home, 8, 35 House Rules Design Shop, 113 KITCHEN & BATH Fulford Bathware, 33 Great Lakes Woodworking Elmwood, 75 House Rules Design Shop, 113 LakeHouse Bath + Kitchen, 29 Luxury Woodworking, 62&63 Wiarton Design Centre div of Wiarton Home Building Centre, 111 KITCHENWARE/RESTAURANT SUPPLY The Cook’s Cupboard, 101 LANDSCAPE DESIGN & ARCHITECTURE/ LANDSCAPING/LAWN & GARDEN Beaver Valley Rock Solid Landscapes, 14 Hutten & Co. Land and Shore, 9 RM Knapp Landscape Construction, 31 MACHINERY/SMALL EQUIPMENT/ FARM SUPPLIES Equipment Ontario, 95 Maple Lane Farm Service, 19

GARDEN CENTRES/GREENHOUSES/ NURSERIES Maxwell Garden Center, 19

MOVING & STORAGE A1 Storage, 25 John Thompson Movers, 75

GEOTHERMAL Sandy Hamilton Plumbing & Heating Inc., 79

ORGANIZATION/STORAGE Blended Interiors, 33, 103 Stor-x Orangizing Systems, 57 Wilson Solutions, 11

HEATING & COOLING Ken Philp ClimateCare, 91

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Mun of G

OUR HOMES is committed to ensuring the businesses below appear under the correct headings. To make a correction, or to have your business listed under more than one heading, please email bettyann.fawcett@ourhomes.ca. To have your business listed in our Home Resource Directory, call us to advertise at 519.986.2599.

OUTDOOR FURNITURE/STRUCTURES Maxwell Garden Center, 19 Spring Ridge Contracting & Design, 17 The Fyre Place & Patio Shop, 57, 113 PAINTING & DECORATING Benjamin Moore, 8 Cuneo Interiors Carpet One Floor & Home, 8, 35 Fulford Bathware, 33 Grey Bruce Paint and Decor, 8 House Rules Design Shop, 113 Lockwood Painting, 101 Southhampton Home Hardware, 8 PAINTING, PRIMING, BLASTING & STAINING Premier Industrial Painting, 79 PAVING/CEMENT/CONCRETE/ INTERLOCK Cook Concrete, 93 Extreme Linings and Coatings, 95

MARKDALE HOME

HARDWARE

PLUMBING Ken Philp ClimateCare, 91 Pratt Plumbing and Heating, 16 Sandy Hamilton Plumbing & Heating Inc., 79

SPECIAL EVENTS The Market Shoppe, 97, 103

REAL ESTATE Engel & Völkers – McGregor Hahne Group, 7 EXP Realty Brokerage – Scott Crowther, 81 Forest Hill Real Estate Grey County – Mark & Laura Murakami, 83 Sutton Sound Realty Inc. – Krista Gill, 3

wINDOW TREATMENTS Ashtons Blinds.Draperies.Shutters, 67 Budget Blinds of Owen Sound, 111 Cuneo Interiors Carpet One Floor & Home, 8, 35 Sunset Blinds, 47 Wilson Solutions, 11

STONE PRODUCTS/VENEER West Shore Stone and Brick Inc., 12

RETIREMENT CENTRES & COMMUNITIES/SENIOR CARE Elgin Lodge Retirement Residence, 18

WINDOWS & DOORS Desboro Doors, 47 Home & Cottage Windows & Doors Inc., 113

ROOFING Reilly’s Roofing, 29

WORKPLACE SAFETY Spencer Safety Solutions, 18

CENTRE GREY BUILDING SUPPLIES

TOP O’THE ROCK

Markdale

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Come browse our large selection of safety footwear.

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As always, our friendly staff are here to help.

Markdale 519.986.3011 markdalehomehardware.ca

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(1975) LIMITED

EVERYTHING YOU NEED...

Visit our Showroom: Your one HOMECARD Mon.-Fri. 7:30am - 5pm Groceries - Deli - Bakery Sat. 7:30am - 4pm ACCEPTED stop home Closed Sunday Variety of breads baked on site building andDELIVERY • FREE ESTIMATES FREE Custom made subs & sandwiches improvement store. We carry ...built just for you! lumber, insulation, plumbing, Many Locally Prepared Meals to Go electrical, roofing, handtools, 74 Lorne St., Markdale, ON N0C 1H0 Oven Roasted Chicken & Wings windows, doors, paint, cabinets, $8.99 Wings Every Wednesday and countertops.

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Advance Orders Welcome - No Waiting

74 Lorne St., Markdale 519.986.2641 1.800.461.7093

194424 Grey Rd 13 Eugenia 519.924.3244 topotherock.com

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good taste

PEAR NEGRONI This is a play on a white negroni, infused with pear and warming spices for a perfect festive winter drink.

RECIPE AND PHO TO G R A PHY JENELLE MCC U L L OC H

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INGREDIENTS (Makes 10 drinks)

2

15 oz gin 10 oz Lillet Blanc 5 oz Suze gentian liqueur One pear, peeled, cored and sliced 3-5 cloves 1 cinnamon stick A few slices of ginger, peeled

1

DIRECTIONS 1) In a glass container, combine all cocktail ingredients. Let infuse in the fridge for 24 hours. Strain the contents out of the liquid.

2) To serve, measure three ounces of the prepared infused liquor into a cocktail mixing glass with ice. Stir to dilute and serve in a cocktail glass over a large ice cube. OH

Get more recipes at ourhomes.ca/blogrecipes

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finishing touch 3 1

4

2

JAPANDI Style

Japandi-style interiors combine Scandinavian and Japanese designs in an east-meets-west aesthetic that is casual, calm and natural. It’s all about bringing the outside in with clean lines, neutral colours, organic elements and a minimalist vibe.

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South Br

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Do it once...do it right!

1563 Hwy. 9, Mildmay southbruceflooring.com 519-367-3215

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finishing touch

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1. ARTERIORS: Ronaldo Chandelier 2. ELK HOME: Sophie Pendant 3. MADE GOODS: Giulana Wall Décor 4. RENWIL: Draco Wall Sconce 5. BENJAMIN MOORE: Paint in White Down, Chantilly Lace and Tapenade 6. MERCANA: Mess Canvas 7. INDABA: Selena Linen (Forest), Callisto (Natural) and Mallorca (Grey) Pillows 8. ARTERIORS: Moana Accent Table 9. STYLE IN FORM: California North Chair 10. CRATE & BARREL: Unwind 4-Piece Reversible Slipcovered Sectional Sofa 11. INDABA: Selena Linen End of Bed Blanket in Lichen 12. RENWIL: Cledon Pouf 13. MADE GOODS: Millie Coffee Table 14. JAIPUR LIVING: Saga Area Rug 15. CB2: Nabla Brown Walnut Wood Wall Mount Bookcase 16. RICHELIEU: DecorTambour Wood Veneer 17. FINIUM: 1” Distink Decorative Walls in White Oak 18. PLANTSOME: Ficus Lyrata Bush and Grafted Ficus Ginseng Bonsai Tree 19. CB2: Ori Globe Table Lamp with Black Wood Base 20. MOBILIA: Eclipse Black Ceramic Vase 21. CYAN DESIGN: Elon Bowl in White 22. CB2: Casimir Black Steel Outdoor Firewood Rack 23. CB2: Coronado Walnut Wood Credenza 24. CB2: Nadia Black Cane Chair 25. CB2: Providence 60” Round Cerused Oak Dining Table 26. INDABA: Boule Mug and Pitcher in Cream 27. ROYAL DOULTON: Olio Black Teapot by Barber Osger 28. CB2: Seminyak Grey Indoor/Outdoor Cement Planters OH

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Homes M 2023-10-05 3:05 2023-11-01 9:07 PM OurSmitty_W

Solid Wood. Timeless Style.

Hanover Showroom І 170 3rd St Hanover, ON І 519-364-3800 Kitchener Showroom І 170 Gateway Park Dr Kitchener, ON І 519-658-9313 smittysfurniture.com

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Exquisite handcrafted timber frame homes.

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