FALL 2025 - BARRIE | ORILLIA | MIDLAND | INNSIFIL

MEET THE BARRIE HOME TEAM

Todd , Lynn & Jayne Guergis

70 Years of Experience in Simcoe County and Surrounding Area

Your local connection with 70 years of combined experience & local knowledge! Born & raised in Barrie, we have superior insight of Barrie and the surrounding area’s real estate market. We are a boutique, family, real estate team with unrivalled knowledge, extensive experience and the latest marketing & social media tools that you need to be competitive in today’s market. Working with our team also means that you will have access to our expansive referral network to cover all of your real estate needs.

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A Legacy Built on Craftsmanship and Community

Celebrating 40 Years of Barrie Trim & Mouldings Inc.

Since 1985, Barrie Trim & Mouldings Inc. has proudly served Barrie and surrounding areas with one guiding principle: deliver exceptional interior finishing products with a commitment to service, craftsmanship, and community. From modest beginnings in a small retail shop on Bell Farm Road to becoming a trusted regional leader in trim, interior doors, stairs, railings, and hardware, BTM’s growth is a testament to its values—and its people.

Under the leadership of Lee Whitaker, Barrie Trim has remained a family-owned and operated business for two generations. “We’re so thankful to our customers, community, and incredible team for their continued loyalty and support over the past 40 years,” says Lee, Owner and President. “It’s those relationships that have allowed us to evolve, adapt, and continue to serve our clients better every year.”

From its bold 1992 move to a 15,000-sq.-ft. location along Highway 400—well before the area was developed— to strategic expansions in manufacturing and branding, Barrie Trim has always been driven by innovation and responsiveness to customer needs. The addition of a stair department in 1995, and a steady focus on modernization are all part of the company’s dedication to being more than a supplier—BTM is a true partner to builders, homeowners, and renovators.

Today, Barrie Trim celebrates 40 years of growth, grit, and gratitude. As they look ahead, their mission remains the same: to continue delivering top-quality products with personalized service, while deepening the relationships that have defined their success.

Here’s to the next chapter—for our team, our clients, and our community.

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CONTRIBUTORS

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OUR HOMES CAN BE FOUND IN THE FOLLOWING MARKETS:

• Barrie/Orillia/Midland • The Golden Horseshoe • Grey Bruce • London/Stratford • Muskoka • Ottawa • Peterborough

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mMY HOUSE WAS A DISASTER ZONE

a year ago. A burst pipe caused a flood in the basement and when we discovered the water, it was too late. The entire level needed to be gutted.

Our insurance company came marching in with loud, powerful fans and discarded all the items lost to water. Anything worth saving got packed into boxes and sent off to a storage unit somewhere in Tiny Township. For months, we lived in the middle of a mess. It was a complete and utter headache.

But as summer melted into fall, we realised the flood was a blessing in disguise. Our basement had always been disorganized and seeing it empty meant we got a fresh start. With a new season ahead of us and a redesign underway, I felt energized. I could see the light at the end of the tunnel.

We reimagined the level by adding a full kitchen, enlarging the main bedroom and redoing the laundry room to include impeccable storage solutions. I spent my days creating Pinterest boards, browsing home décor stores and finding the right shade of white for the walls. By late October, we got all the boxes unpacked, and life finally settled back into its natural rhythm.

If the whole experience taught me anything, it would be that life is always going to ebb and flow. Bad days can wreak havoc, but the good days always return. And it’s all thanks to time: months pass, seasons change and life somehow finds a way to reroute and reset.

In this issue, the owners of the homes we feature had to jump over hurdles at first. Michelle Bowman’s carriage house was built on top of her detached garage and researching bylaws and acquiring permits were challenging. A Carthew lake house also took extensive planning from the onset, especially when tearing down the original cottage and positioning the new one. Finally, Lorie Linale found her dream home in 2019, but the timing wasn’t right, and she needed to pass on a beautiful opportunity before finding the right one years later.

It makes me realize that we’re all hit with hiccups in life. But if we give it a bit of time, those hidden pieces of gold will begin to peek through the dirt.

Enjoy this new season,

Renee Alkass, Managing Editor renee.alkass@ourhomes.ca

LOCAL FEATURES

32 Style Picks Spice up your home for fall with these design picks.

46 Feature Home A house aficionado finds her dream property in Tay Township after years of manifesting.

66 Spotlight Irvine Carpet One Floor & Home celebrates 65 years in business.

72 Home & Designer A house built from the ground up on Carthew Bay becomes a family’s forever home.

90 People & Places Five one-stop design shops to help transform your living spaces.

104 Home & Designer A local designer turns her detached garage into a marvelous carriage house.

A hand-built swing by Doug Lauder hangs on the front porch of an 1890s Midhurst home. Story, page 104. Photography by Nat Caron. ON THE COVER

Scullery

Gardening Beautiful Borders

Entertaining Orchard To Table

Around The House Rakes Vs. Blowers

Design Ideas Spa-Like Sanctuary

Crafty Ideas Stone Name Plates

Birding Bird Checklist

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RETURN OF The Scullery

In the last several years, there has been a resurgence of integrating a scullery in modern homes. Concealing the mess of food prep and dirty dishes is a favourable idea for those who love to entertain, particularly in open-concept floor plans.

There are some key differences between a scullery and a butler’s pantry and/or a walk-in pantry. A scullery is an “overflow kitchen” – an extension of the main kitchen but designed for messy tasks like cleaning, food preparation and storage of unsightly appliances. Historically found in homes with staff, the scullery was purely utilitarian, tucked towards the rear of the house and away from the main dining area. A butler’s pantry has evolved from its initial purpose, which was traditionally a space between the kitchen and dining area in wealthier homes, where tableware was stored for plating and presenting food for serving. These days, it often incorporates additional storage, a small sink, perhaps an under-counter beverage fridge and/or an ice maker and typically accommodates a coffee station. A walk-in pantry is simply storage for nonperishable food items, as well as small appliances. It does not include plumbing and/or built-in appliances.

Is a scullery right for you?

If you love to cook and entertain, planning a scullery as part of a large renovation or a new build is a great idea, provided you have the square footage to make it functional and the budget to outfit two kitchens.

Where should it go?

A modern-day scullery should be adjacent to the primary kitchen but separate and private enough to hide the mess and keep the main kitchen clean and organized. Proximity to food preparation and transferring dishes is important when entertaining guests. And when dealing with clearing and cleaning dirty dishes, you don’t want to travel far.

How big should it be?

What should it include?

The size of a scullery depends on how you need the space to function and the overall footprint of your home. It is common to include a large sink, dishwasher, additional fridge/freezer and microwave. A wall oven, secondary range or cooktop, beverage fridge, warming drawers and/or a coffee station are all options during space planning. There should be plenty of counter space for food preparation, bins for recycling, garbage and compost and ample storage for food items and other small appliances such as a food processor, blender, stand mixer, air fryer, crockpot, coffee maker and other kitchen gadgets (make sure to include sufficient outlets above the counter). If you have the square footage, consider incorporating a housekeeping corner into the scullery to accommodate a broom, mop and other cleaning supplies.

What should it look like?

The focus of the scullery is to maximize efficiency and functionality. However, the materials, textures, finishes and palette should be harmonious with the overall aesthetic of your home. Cabinetry material should withstand the wear and tear of pots, pans and constant use – ideally, a solid wood. If you opt for a painted finish, darker colours conceal more spills. Countertops in the scullery should be resilient. The backsplash has to be wipeable with minimal grout and flooring must be easy to sweep and mop. Appliance selections should be durable and reliable. Lighting should be bright and functional, and always include a window for some natural light. OH

Designer Tamarisk McNalty Stephens shares her ideas.

PHOTO: JASON HARTOG

PHOTO: JASON HARTOG

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HARVEST THE LOOK

1 NAPOLEON HOME COMFORT

Electric Infrared Heater

Stay warm after sunset with this Napoleon Home Comfort outdoor electric infrared heater. Lightweight and portable, this heater is made to withstand all weather conditions. It has a sleek foldable cantilever design and plugs into a 120v outlet for easy setup.

24 Napoleon Rd., Barrie 705.721.1214 | napoleon.com

2 SIMPLY HOME FURNISHINGS

Noble Sofa

Feel right at home when you relax in this top-grain leather stationary sofa. Comfort is not sacrificed by style as the cushion features encased coil springs for a resilient, plush feel. The bun legs are available in espresso, dark walnut or honey birch finish options.

900 King St., Midland 705.526.5678 | simplyhomefurnishings.com

3 SALNEK'S CUSTOM WINDOW TREATMENTS

Centrepiece Roman Shades

Curate a sleek profile for your home with these elegant Roman shades. Available in a variety of luxury fabrics and lining options, these awardwinning shades deliver elegance and style. With a cordless lifting system and smart motorization options, they are perfect for any home.

34 Cedar Pointe Dr. Unit 507, Barrie 705.737.4200 | salnek.ca 1

4 NOLTE KÜCHEN BY BOBI KITCHENS

Matrix Art Kitchen

From award-winning German brand Nolte, this premium kitchen is the epitome of modern elegance. Available in a selection of premium finishes, this kitchen is fully customizable to fit your expectations, budget and tastes.

250 Innisfil St. Unit 2, Barrie 437.993.2624 | bobikitchens.com

5 ORA KITCHENS AND BATH

Mudroom Bench

A simple, universal bench everyone knows they need. The semi-custom unit is available in a variety of colours, dimensions and configurations. Designed to fit in a mudroom, the open shelving and cabinet doors provide a great opportunity for organization.

100 Hunter Valley Rd., Orillia 705.330.0100 | orakitchens.com

6 KEMPENFELT WINDOWS & DOORS

Fibreglass Door System

Manufactured in Canada, this eight-foot fibreglass door is built to perform. For those wanting the appearance of a wood door without sacrificing durability, this is the ideal option. It’s energy-efficient, reinforced with three locking points and available in a range of wood-grained textures or smooth surface colours.

92 Commerce Park Dr., Barrie 705.737.1554 | kempenfeltwindows.com

7 BATEMAN FINE CABINETRY

Custom Entryway Bench

This custom entryway bench is finished in Benjamin Moore Thunder and topped with a charred walnut-stained poplar seat. It’s designed with lift-up doors, open cubbies, deep drawers and sleek Amerock Acclivity hooks. The Sense Mini Pulls by Marathon Hardware add a modern touch.

2921 Hwy. 11, Oro-Medonte 705.487.1903 | batemanfinecabinetry.com

8 SPRINGWATER WOODCRAFT

Modern Shed

Redefine outdoor storage with this nine-bynine foot shed featuring cedar accents and an optional single transom window. Springwater Woodcraft has a backyard collection of modern sheds with clean lines, stark accents and a variety of wood finishes to best suit your backyard living space.

1533 Snow Valley Rd., Minesing | 705.727.4905 springwaterwoodcraft.com

9 END OF THE ROLL FLOORING CENTRES

Canadian-Made Flooring

Elevate any space with Canoe by Lakeside Park, a Canadian-made, waterproof laminate flooring known for its exceptional durability. Featuring an embossed-in-register design and a 12-millimetre thickness, this flooring offers timeless style, several hues, and long-lasting performance.

129 Mapleview Dr. W., Barrie 705.727.9805 | endoftheroll.com OH

PUMPKIN CREAM Cold Brew

Makes 4 servings

RECIPE

AND PHOTOGRAPHY JENELLE MCCULLOCH

This creamy, spiced cold brew brings the cosy flavours of fall into your cup – no line-up at the coffee shop required.

Cold Brew

INGREDIENTS

1 cup coarsely ground coffee beans

4 cups water

INSTRUCTIONS

Combine grounds with water. Let steep overnight or for 12 hours. Strain grounds from coffee. Refrigerate until ready for use.

Cold Foam

INGREDIENTS

1 cup heavy cream

3 tsp pumpkin purée

1 Tbsp brown sugar or maple syrup

1 tsp vanilla

1 tsp pumpkin spice

INSTRUCTIONS

In a small bowl or shaker, whisk or blend cream, pumpkin purée, sugar, vanilla and pumpkin spice until smooth and frothy.

Fill a glass with ice, pour in 1 cup of cold brew and top with the pumpkin cream mixture. Stir gently and enjoy. OH

MIXED BORDERS

STORY TERESA MATAMOROS

Gertrude Jekyll, the doyenne of gardening, first introduced the mixed border to Victorian England. We have her to thank for the loose “cottage” garden style – reflecting a kind of controlled chaos – that continues to inspire gardeners today. It’s also my personal favourite style.

WHAT IS A MIXED BORDER?

A mixed border is exactly what it sounds like: a carefully curated mix of plants that offers interest throughout the year. This type of garden bed includes evergreens for year-round structure, shrubs for height and framework, grasses, perennials, annuals and bulbs for seasonal colour and variety. It has something for everyone.

If you’re building a mixed border from scratch, there are several factors to consider: site evaluation, objectives and then plant selection.

Regardless of the first two considerations, most mixed borders should have:

ROOM TO GROW

Mixed borders need space to shine. At least six feet wide is ideal. Add stepping stones tucked into hidden spots to allow for access and maintenance.

ALL-SEASON INTEREST

Plan for year-round beauty. Start early with spring bulbs that overlap into summer bloomers. Ornamental grasses, evergreens and structural shrubs can carry your garden into fall and even into the winter holidays.

PHOTO: TERESA MATAMOROS

COLOUR AND REPETITION

Repeat colours throughout the bed to guide the eye. You don’t need to repeat the same plant; stick with similar tones. Neutral tones like white or grey can serve as buffers between colours that might otherwise clash.

FOLIAGE FOR CONTRAST

Even when flowers aren’t in bloom, contrasting foliage creates visual interest. Use different textures, shapes and colours of leaves to add depth. Using tropicals with big, bold leaves – such as canna, palms, elephant ears or bananas – in colourful containers adds an exotic feel and a wow factor to the border.

STRUCTURAL FRAMEWORK

Create a mix of formal and informal elements. Some of the most inspiring gardens use clipped boxwoods or yews to provide structure for otherwise wild and exuberant plantings. (Note: Due to the spread of the box tree moth, consider alternatives to boxwood.)

You can also introduce formal elements within a relaxed setting by using sculpted topiary plants or dwarf Serbian spruce, bird’s nest spruce, dwarf pines or weeping conifers for striking winter silhouettes. Vertical elements help break the horizontal plane and can be achieved with obelisks and arbours with climbing vines like clematis.

LAYERING AND PLANT PLACEMENT

Tall plants typically go toward the back of the border to provide height and a backdrop. However, don’t be afraid to add some taller varieties with an airy or open structure, such as Verbena bonariensis. Ornamental grasses such as Molinia ‘Skyracer’ moor grass can be planted toward the front or middle to add movement and vertical interest without blocking the view.

PRACTICAL TIPS

Sun and Shade: A combination of both will expand your plant palette, but also add to the challenge.

Complementary Plant Pairings: Combine plants based on compatible textures, forms and growth habits.

Repetition Creates Unity: Repeating elements like colour, texture or form ties the garden together, facilitating the cohesive element.

Edibles: Placing a few colourful herbs such as variegated sage, basil, purple kale or even a tomato plant or two in the border is a wonderful idea, especially if you don’t have the space for a separate vegetable garden.

MAINTENANCE & LONGEVITY

While mixed borders are lush and dynamic, they’re not entirely low maintenance. Expect to do some deadheading on perennials, weeding and pruning.

However, once the garden is wellestablished and densely planted, it will help suppress weeds and require less effort overall.

Don’t be intimidated by the time it takes to create a mixed border – it evolves. The beauty is in its flexibility. Start planting and enjoy watching it grow year after year. After all, the best thing about starting today is that something beautiful will already be there tomorrow. OH

Teresa Matamoros has a Bachelor of Science degree, an Ontario Diploma in Horticulture and is an ISA Certified Arborist.

PHOTO: MKOVALEVSKAYA

PHOTO: ANNRAPEEPAN

PHOTO:

PHOTO: TERESA MATAMOROS

Weeping Conifer

Verbena Bonariensis

Thai Basil

Purple Kale

from ORCHARD to TABLE A SEASON TO SAVOUR

1. An Orchard-to-Table Tablescape

First, we’re going to skip florals in favour of something more evocative – an abundance of apples beautifully displayed in a collection of baskets, footed bowls and vintage silver. Mixing apple varieties offers interest. I like to layer in a soft buffalo check linen in neutral tones and tuck a few taper candles among the fruit for a glow that flatters.

2. Unexpected Décor

I love it when décor does double duty. Personalize your place settings with red apples. In lieu of place cards, adorn the apples with a leaf and scribe your guests’ names. If your apples are without their stems, craft your own by attaching a leaf with a little floral wire to mimic a freshly picked apple. It’s eco-friendly and deliciously on theme.

There’s a quiet sort of magic in the way apples define autumn. From a crisp bite to the comforting aroma of a spiced apple bake, they have a way of inviting us to slow down and savour the moment. This season, I’m leaning into all things orchard to inspire everything from the tablescape to the menu.

3. Apples Beyond Pie

There’s so much more to apples than pie. While some recipes are tried and true, for something equally delicious and unique, I suggest an Apple & Rosemary Focaccia: sweet and savoury, fragrant and delectable.

FOOLPROOF APPLE & ROSEMARY FOCACCIA

INSTRUCTIONS

1 ball store-bought pizza dough (room temp)

2 Tbsp olive oil, plus more for drizzling

1 firm apple, thinly sliced

1 Tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped (plus extra sprigs for garnish)

2 Tbsp brown sugar, split

Flaky sea salt

4. Sip Something Seasonal

No fall gathering is complete without a warm little something in hand. I like to greet guests with a Spiked Apple Cider Mule.

SPIKED APPLE CIDER MULE

INGREDIENTS (Makes 1 cocktail)

2 oz Barnburner Whiskey (or vodka if preferred)

1 oz fresh lime juice

2 oz apple cider (unfiltered is best)

3 oz ginger beer (chilled)

Dash of ground cinnamon or a cinnamon stick

Ice

INSTRUCTIONS

Fill a julep cup or rocks glass with crushed ice.

Add whiskey or vodka, lime juice and apple cider. Stir gently.

Top with ginger beer and stir with a cinnamon stick.

INSTRUCTIONS

Prepare the dough: Let the dough sit at room temperature for 1 hour. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with olive oil. Loosely stretch the dough to fit the pan. Doesn’t need to be perfect edgeto-edge in the pan. Cover and let rise at room temperature for 45-60 minutes. Prepare Apples: Thinly slice the apples. Toss in a bowl with chopped rosemary, a touch of olive oil and 1 Tbsp brown sugar.

Assemble: Preheat oven to 425°F. Drizzle dough with olive oil and dimple with fingertips. Layer apple slices over the top, sprinkle with flaky salt, brown sugar and sprigs of rosemary.

Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and apples have softened.

Enjoy! Let rest slightly before removing from pan – serve warm! I like to add a drizzle of honey and serve with crumbled sharp blue cheese for an appetizer.

5. Savour Outdoor Entertaining Before It’s Gone

There’s still time to entertain outside, so this is your sign to enjoy it while it lasts. If you really want to bring the orchard theme home and go big, grab hay bales and drape them in plaid throws. Add a crackling fire pit.

So invite a few friends, pour the cider, and let apple season lead the way. OH

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A truly exceptional kitchen starts with a truly exceptional design. We start by understanding our client’s tastes, their needs, and how they plan to use the space. We measure and analyze the available space, its current limitations, and its potential. Then we develop a design that best utilizes the space and meets the needs and desires of our client.

705-330-0100 | sales@orakitchens.com 100 Hunter Valley Rd. Orillia, ON L3V 0Y7 @ora_kitchensandbath www.orakitchens.com

STORY GISELE WINTON SARVIS PHOTOGRAPHY SANDY MACKAY

LLorie Linale is a home aficionado. Her dream book Ask, Believe, Receive is made of clippings of houses she loves, many from the pages of OUR HOMES.

Originally from King Township, Lorie and her husband, Russ, decided to look for a new home once their two children moved on.

“We retired and it was always part of the plan to try somewhere different, and we love the area,” says Russ, referring to the location of their new property in Tay Township, close to Midland.

Russ wanted to be closer to places where he could fish and snowmobile. “We also wanted to be halfway to the kids in New Tecumseth and a cottage north-east of Parry Sound,” Lorie says.

Of Belgian descent, Lorie loves old worldhomes that maximize natural stone, iron and wood. She also loves upcycling everything from furniture to wall hangings. “I love realtor.ca,” she says. “I’ve been researching it forever. In 2019, I found our dream home in Oro-Medonte, but the timing wasn’t right,” she says. Continued on page 49

and

armour stone

give

ABOVE: A jute rug and church pew bring natural texture to the front foyer. The walls are painted Benjamin Moore Balboa Mist, while the trim is painted White Dove. LEFT: The home’s curb appeal embodies a rustic, old-world feel. The cladded stone exterior, lush garden beds

walkway with an

border establish a grand entrance. OPPOSITE: The wooden porch beams and front door

the entry an organic feel.

The mason-built stone fireplace is the focal point of the living room. Vaulted shiplapped ceilings add character and dimension to the space.

Built by hobby builders, it was a bungalow with stone cladding, reclaimed wooden beams and a stone fireplace. Fast forward threeand-a-half years and Lorie found the exact same 2,350 sq. ft. home in Tay Township. It was built in 2020 by the same people, who have now moved to the Maritimes.

“It was identical,” Lorie says. “We got to meet the people who designed the home, and they were so proud, as they should be. It was everything we dreamed of, plus more. It was like they knew us and designed it for us.” Continued on page 51

ABOVE: A phalaenopsis orchid is in full bloom with large, velvety flowers. LEFT: The living room is built for comfort. Much of the home’s furniture was purchased locally from Simply Home Furnishings.

BELOW: Natural finishes and earthy décor in the bathroom create a relaxing aesthetic.

“IT WAS PRETTY MUCH A MIRACLE FINDING IT. WE FEEL VERY THANKFUL FOR THIS PLACE.”

BELOW: Russ and Lorie Linale feel eternally grateful for their home. Lorie holds her manifestation dream book, Ask, Believe, Receive, which is made of clippings of homes she loves. RIGHT: The butler’s pantry holds many small appliances to keep the kitchen free of clutter. BOTTOM RIGHT: An antique door is used for entry to the pantry. OPPOSITE: Vaulted ceilings, an exposed brick backsplash and a large over-the-sink window add comfort and charm to the chef’s kitchen. The dual-tone cabinetry is from

“I think this gives people hope that you can buy a home and not have to do anything to make it yours,” she adds.

Russ and Lorie moved into the home in 2022. Two years after they settled in, the couple wanted to get involved in the community. They decided to open their home for the 2024 Showcase of Homes Tour supporting Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) of North Simcoe. “This was a quick no-brainer,” Russ says.

The Showcase of Homes Tour is the largest and longest running annual fundraiser for BBBS, which is a non-profit charity providing volunteer-based mentorship programs to youths. All the proceeds from the home tour support the agency.

The Linales’ home has two bedrooms on the main floor and a fullyfinished basement with another two bedrooms. Continued on page 53

Raywal Cabinets in Persian Gray and Cloud White.

Russ and Lorie Linale

The dining room is a perfect area for gathering. Antique furniture sourced and re-stained by Lorie fills the space.

The main floor has a mason-built stone fireplace and extra-large windows everywhere. The kitchen sink area is pushed out from the main back wall, allowing for windows on three sides looking to the backyard.

“They maximized on the window allowance for the home. You stand here in the winter, and you have the sensation of being in a snow globe, because you can see outside on all sides,” Lorie says.

The in-floor heating system was extended into the quartz top on the kitchen island, controllable through a nearby thermostat.

An unusual feature is the covered deck located on the side of the home, rather than the back. It features a dining table and overhead lighting that offers amazing privacy. All the gardens at the front and back were planted by the original owners, providing a beautiful and quiet space.

The dining room is at the front of the house and is furnished with antiques that Lorie has re-stained. Close by is the butler’s pantry, a narrow room with a window, countertop and shelves made of metal piping.

LEFT: Another repurposed church pew decorated with cosy textiles for fall. BELOW: The covered deck runs along the side of the home for optimal privacy. Sprawling garden beds and unique stepping stones evoke a sense of natural charm.

The primary bedroom faces east so the room fills with the morning sun. They have a walk-in closet with a window. One of the closet walls has a re-purposed grate attached with hooks to hang handbags, perfect for Lorie, who loves to organize.

The primary en suite has heated tiled floors, a claw-foot tub, a water closet and a shower with a mix of large tile and hexagonal tile, plus a a window to the yard.

“It’s really tranquil in here,” Lorie says. The fall season gives the home a peaceful aura and with thanksgiving around the corner, she feels extra grateful for the home.

The guest room at the front is furnished with an antique iron bed and the mainfloor laundry room is equipped with cupboards and a window.

A second entrance from the double-car garage opens to a mudroom. There is a repurposed church pew in the hallway, a light fixture, beautiful tile and best of all, three closets, a linen closet and closets for two.

A freestanding soaker tub provides the chance for an at-home spa experience.

ABOVE:

FAR LEFT: Dual sinks in the primary en suite give Russ and Lorie extra space. LEFT: The guest bedroom features an antique iron bed and natural textiles to match the overall aesthetic of the home.

The primary bedroom awaits relaxation. A tray ceiling, double-door entry and expansive bedside window saturate the space with luxury.

The lower-level family room has extralarge egress windows, providing much more light than most basements. Horizontal shiplap walls, a light sectional sofa and antique windows bring an airy feel to the space.

The basement has a bedroom for their son and another for their daughter, a bathroom, a huge storage room and cold storage.

“It was pretty much a miracle finding it,” Lorie says. “We feel very thankful for this place.” OH

TOP LEFT A lovely laundry room that makes everyday chores feel easy. The rattan light fixture adds a warm touch. ABOVE RIGHT: The bright and cosy basement living room features shiplap walls, a gas fireplace and unique built-in wall benches. RIGHT: A large window in the basement bedroom makes the space feel bright and airy. FAR RIGHT: The staircase to the basement features a carpet runner for comfort and added safety.

The Clash Of The LEAF RAKERS AND LEAF BLOWERS

STORY PHIL MATHIES

ILLUSTRATION

SHEILA BRITTON

After the leaves change colour, turning our landscape into a Group of Seven painting, they do something quite rude. They dry up, turn a burnt umber complexion and fall all over our lawns, driveways, decks and roofs. I don’t recall many famous paintings centred on this, but it is our reality and something that many of us must deal with. Leaves are lighter than snow, so let’s not complain too loudly.

Alright, now that I’ve lowered my voice, let’s continue.

In life, there are many problems that resist our desire for an obvious solution. Even if we’re good at holding more than one idea in our mind at a time, we still prefer a clear-cut answer. Make it black and white, please. So, what is the best answer for what to do about all these dang leaves? Well, there are two primary tools that we use for dealing with them, and the tool one chooses for clearing leaves reveals something about us and what we value. And it reveals the kinds of things we’re likely to complain about.

Approximately 3,000 years ago, Chinese civilization gifted us the rake. The rake is a simple tool that runs on elbow grease. Depending on the amount of this fuel you keep on hand at any given time, the amount of lawn you need to clear and the number of impolite deciduous trees near said lawn, you’ll really have your work cut out for you around the second week of October. This means that for millennia, the only way to clear leaves effectively was with a rake. Everything was crystal clear for a long time, but modern homeownership presents new, and sometimes ambiguous, solutions.

In 1977, while some people dreamed of events from a long time ago in a galaxy far, far away, others focused on the problems presented by the leaves – both stories pitted good against evil. The leaf blower came on the scene and gave people the option of using a gas-powered (or electric) handheld fan that channels a jet of air through a pipe and blasts the leaves around, making the job much, much easier and, dare I say, highly amusing. This invention created two camps: the leaf rakers and the leaf blowers.

If you live in a neighbourhood like I do, you know which neighbours use a rake and which use a leaf blower.

Down the street to my right lives a man who rakes his yard, even when I don’t see a single leaf on the ground. In his retirement, it seems he has decided to almost brush the grass as if it were the mane of a champion steed. This may strike some people, mostly blowers, as drastic and tedious. Is he overdoing it? Perhaps. His lawn could host the Canadian Open. It’s a lovely grass surface, and he puts in the time.

Down the street to my left is a woman who jogs every morning, runs a business and operates a powerful gas leaf blower that could strip the paint off a footlocker. Her stone path, her lawn, her deck – they’re all spotless. The leaves never stand a chance, and she manages to fit it into her busy schedule because it’s such an efficient process. Her home, like the retired man’s, is also well-maintained, and she is able to satisfy her many other ambitions.

In between these extremes are the rest of us. And we love to complain, don’t we? The leaf blowers are way too loud! Every year, the rake breaks, so I have to buy a new one. Using a blower puts dust particles into the air! Raking is labour intensive and my time is valuable! Those blowers are burning gasoline! This rake is giving me blisters! Ancient technology or modern technology? It feels like a question we ask ourselves a lot these days. There’s no perfect solution. If you have plenty of time and energy, appreciate simplicity and tranquility, then you might be a leaf raker. If you’re a mover and shaker, appreciate efficiency and technological progress, well, then you’re likely a leaf blower. Both groups are likely to have feelings about each other. You’ll hear about it if you ask. If you dare to ask.

Let’s come together and acknowledge that we’re neighbours, not enemies, and that really it’s the leaves that are being rude. They’re lucky that they’re so beautiful, right? So, whether you reside in one camp or the other, I think we can agree that we’re all just trying our best to maintain a home on the edge of a wilderness. It’s hard work and we’re fallible. We have to do something, don’t we?

Recently, one of my neighbours was telling me that he never rakes or blows the leaves. “Actually,” he was telling me, “the leaves are a natural fertilizer for the lawn and help provide cover for pollinators that winter under the debris. Just leave them where they are. Most you need to do is go over them with a lawnmower to help them mulch.”

It’s a fascinating idea that requires doing less and getting more. I can get behind that. Maybe I owe the leaves an apology? OH

BATHROOM DESIGN

A shift toward SERENITY

One of the most prominent trends in bathroom design today is the move toward serene and restful colour palettes. Soft earthy tones such as warm greys, muted greens and pale taupe dominate the scene. These hues work harmoniously to create a tranquil environment that encourages relaxation. Designers are also incorporating natural materials such as light oak, travertine and rattan to amplify that sense of calm and connection to nature. The result is a spa-like atmosphere that feels both restorative and refined.

STORY JESSICA CINNAMON

A Serene Shift Toward Comfort and Calm

Bathroom design has experienced a transformative shift. Gone are the days of purely utilitarian spaces. Today’s bathrooms are sanctuaries designed to promote peace and well-being. This evolution reflects a broader trend in interior design that emphasizes comfort, serenity and thoughtful personalization. As we move forward, modern bathrooms balance sleek functionality and soothing aesthetics, inviting us to linger a little longer in our daily rituals.

LARGE-FORMAT TILES for a clean look

Large-format tiles are surging in popularity, and for good reason. These oversize tiles reduce the number of grout lines, which not only makes cleaning easier but also contributes to an uncluttered look. Whether used on the floors or walls, they offer a sense of visual continuity that can make even a smaller bathroom feel expansive. Matte finishes are favoured for their soft, understated appearance and slip resistance, making them both beautiful and practical.

The rise of LARGER SHOWERS

In many new bathroom layouts, the shower is becoming the main focal point. Walk-in showers are expanding both in size and sophistication. Frameless glass enclosures and curbless entries provide a more open, seamless feel, while showers often feature dual rain heads, integrated bench seating and built-in niches for storage. Importantly, safety elements are also being integrated into the design. Grab bars are discreet and stylish, blending seamlessly into tile patterns or doubling as towel bars. Anti-slip tiles and subtle lighting around the shower perimeter further enhance safety without sacrificing aesthetics.

PHOTO: MIKE CHAJECKI

PHOTO: MIKE CHAJECKI

design ideas

PRO TIP 1: Think beyond trends and prioritize personal use. When planning a bathroom remodel or new build, take time to think deeply about how you use the space. If you enjoy long showers, invest in a multi-function shower system with intuitive controls. If you prefer soaking, choose a deep, free-standing tub (test it in-store before you buy).

TEXTURES AND SHAPES that speak calm

Texture is playing a major role in the sensory experience of a bathroom. Fluted wood vanities, ribbed tile patterns and soft stone finishes add subtle dimension without overwhelming the space. Organic shapes, such as rounded mirrors, oval soaking tubs and curved light fixtures, are replacing harsher lines. These soft edges contribute to a more relaxed, inviting space while still maintaining a clean, modern feel.

LIGHTING elevates and calms

Lighting has become one of the most critical components in bathroom design. Layered lighting schemes are essential, combining ambient, task and accent lighting to meet both functional and aesthetic needs. Soft LED strips under vanities and inside cabinets add a gentle glow. Pendant lights and sconces flanking mirrors provide flattering illumination for grooming. Adjustable lighting systems are growing in popularity as they allow for bright light during morning routines and dim settings for evening.

Comfortable HEIGHTS

One of the most significant updates in bathroom design is the shift toward comfort-height vanities and toilets. Traditional vanity heights are being reimagined to reduce strain on the back and shoulders, especially for taller individuals. Custom vanities are now designed with ergonomics in mind and often include built-in organizers and under-cabinet lighting. Comfort-height toilets, which are about two inches taller than standard models, are also becoming the norm. This subtle change makes a big difference in ease of use.

COUNTERTOPS that combine beauty and function

PRO TIP 2: Don’t underestimate storage and accessibility. A clutter-free bathroom is a calming bathroom. Built-in storage solutions such as recessed cabinets and mirrored medicine chests are a must. Also consider how the layout accommodates movement and access. Wider entryways and smart lighting controls can make a world of difference.

Quartz remains a top choice for bathroom countertops thanks to its durability and resistance to staining. Its non-porous surface also makes it a hygienic option, and designers are increasingly pairing these surfaces with integrated sinks and minimal seams for a sleek, streamlined look. Waterfall edges and floating vanity designs continue to gain popularity. As natural tones and textures take centre stage, many designers often turn to timeless natural marble for its organic beauty. These stone finishes bring unique veining, soft colour variations and a sense of quiet luxury.

Today’s bathroom is a peaceful retreat that supports both body and mind. Current trends favour natural materials, soft textures, smart lighting and ergonomic design, all working together to create a soothing space with the goal of comfort and calm. OH

Jessica Cinnamon is an award-winning principal designer and founder of Toronto-based Jessica Cinnamon Design Inc.

PHOTO: STEPHANI BUCHMAN

PHOTO: MIKE CHAJECKI

PROJECT SARA MARTIN PHOTOGRAPHY TARA CHATTELL

Stone NAME PLATES

Add a touch of biophilic design to a dining table with the addition of river stone name plates. Guests will relish the connection to nature that brings with it an inner sense of tranquility.

How-To

Tools & Materials

River stones

Foam brush

C2 Paint Guard or polyurethane in a flat sheen

Alphabet stickers

Collect smooth stones that sit naturally with a flat side up. Also look for stones that offer interesting striations and shades. Wash in lukewarm water and scrub with a nonabrasive sponge to remove any grime. Let dry thoroughly.

Using a piece of plastic to protect your work surface, apply a thin coat of C2 Guard or polyurethane to the top of the stone with a foam brush. Let dry, then repeat. When the second coat is dry, turn the stones over and repeat the process.

Once the stones are completely dry, apply letters to form dinner guests’ names on the flat side of the rock. For this project, oneinch puffy gold letters were used. You might need smaller or larger letters depending on the size of your rocks. Use a ruler or straight edge to keep the letters in line.

Once the meal is over, encourage guests to take their stone name plates home as a reminder of the gathering. OH

Celebrating

65 YEARS

THE PLACE

Irvine Carpet One Floor & Home has been a premier destination for all your flooring and interior design needs since 1960. Their one-stop shop is a Canadian supplier-focused store that carries a vast selection of products to design any space from the ground up. Whether you’re looking for carpet, hardwood, paint or tile, they have everything.

FAMILY RUN

With two Barrie locations, Irvine Carpet One Floor & Home is proudly in its third generation of Irvine family ownership. The Bayfield Street store has an extensive selection of every product you need. The Veterans Drive store features a friendly, knowledgeable team ready to help you find the perfect flooring and finishes. Their warm, customer-first approach creates a relaxed, welcoming shopping experience that keeps people coming back.

Wendy Hill, Vanessa Middaugh, Corey Webster, Emmit Grimmer & Jay Jay Grimmer

THE SHOWROOM

The sprawling showroom on Bayfield Street is a treat for the eyes. Their flooring selection is impressive, offering everything from family-friendly options to high-end luxury finishes. The store is proud to carry a wide range of topquality Canadian brands, including Kentwood Flooring, Twelve Oaks, Beaulieu Canada, Urban Zebra and Mirage Floors. They also offer a wide selection of paints and stains, including Benjamin Moore, Cottage Paint and SANSIN – a Canadian-made, eco-friendly line known for its durability and beautiful finish.

FESTOOL TOOLS

Irvine Carpet One Floor & Home proudly carries Festool, a German-engineered brand that creates professional, reliable power tools. Known for their dust extraction technology and ergonomic design, Festool is a top product in the market. Whether you’re a contractor or homeowner, these tools will handle the most difficult tasks. One of the team's favourite products is the Rotex 90 Sander, which features four machines in an easy-to-use, compact unit.

DESIGN & INSTALL

If you need help planning your project, the Irvine design team can help guide the process. And their installation team can bring your dreams to life. But if you’re looking for a few items to tackle the project yourself, a large portion of their showroom is dedicated to supplies and tools. OH

THE LURE OF THE LIST

“Everyone likes birds. What wild creature is more accessible to our eyes and ears, as close to us and everyone in the world, as universal as a bird?” –SIR DAVID ATTENBOROUGH

No matter where you are, at home, abroad or places in between, if you look outside, you’re almost always going to see a bird. No wonder birdwatching is such an accessible and popular pastime. It’s the easiest and most effortless way of connecting with nature and the natural world. But not only is the appreciation of birds universal, a common connection amongst birders is their proclivity to record the birds they’ve seen. The act of recording and collecting scores, statistics, tallies and counts seems to accompany many hobbies, sports or recreations. They say that collecting and organizing things gives the brain’s pleasure centre a kick. Listing the birds you’ve seen on an organized checklist may do just that for you. So, let’s check out the checklists you may want to keep.

THE BIRD CHECKLIST

Most likely, the first thing a beginning birder will want to find is a local checklist where you can keep track of the birds most commonly seen around your usual haunts. This could be a list compiled by an area naturalists’ club or birding club. Alternatively, if you’re techie, you can download a list for your area from eBird. A checklist is not just a tool to keep track of your sightings; it subliminally educates you on several aspects of birding. As you check off – or “tick,” as birders call it – the birds you see on each outing, patterns will emerge: which birds are most common, which are found in forests or fields, in winter only or just during spring migration. You become quicker at identifying the common birds you see regularly. You become familiar with the locations where you see certain species, and thus learn their habitat requirements. You learn a lot by keeping a list of sightings each time you go birding. It’s the beginning of your evolution as a birder.

PHOTO: DAVID TURNER

Indigo Bunting

White-throated Magpie

PHOTO: ROBIN JOWETT

STORY LYNNE RICHARDSON

THE YARD LIST

Perhaps the easiest place to start a bird checklist is where you’re generally looking the most, watching bird feeders in your backyard. The feeder list is a starting point, but it can easily expand into a full yard list, which, by my own yard list rules at least, can include any birds seen in, flying over or visible from your yard. Bonus if you have a big tree-lined yard or property! You can count on counting the local chickadees, jays and juncos at your feeders, but every once in a while, something new will catch your eye, maybe at your feeder, maybe flying over. This will send you to your field guide or app on an ID quest, and once identified, you’ll have a new tick on your list. Spring migration periods are excellent times for new birds to arrive. Birds that lay low in their nesting season will readily come to your feeder in the spring, hungry for a free snack after a long migration. I’ve been lucky enough to spot a new species or two in or over my yard almost every year due to the magic of migration! It is simply amazing how many different species might arrive over time and through the seasons. The annual surprise additions make my yard list one of my favourite lists.

PROVINCE LIST

Next up is an increasingly broader list as you expand your birding interests and destinations. You might now have found your flock – a birding buddy or two or a local birding group – and have been on outings offered by a naturalist club, park or conservation area. You may have even planned a trip further afield to known birding areas and hotspots throughout the province. Your various checklists will tell you what you’ve seen and, increasingly important, what you haven’t seen, and you’ll now be interested in exploring new locations and adding new species. Insidiously, the more you see, the more you want to see. Your list can only grow as you trip around your home province. Something always flies by and catches your eye!

TRIP LISTS

Winter vacation coming up? Next summer’s vacation being planned cross-country, to the coasts or even abroad? This is where it can get very interesting. Yes, there’s lots to pack in on our vacations, but it’s still so very easy to check out the birds wherever you may be. Just look up and around! With over 500 species in Canada and 10,000-plus worldwide, every destination holds an abundance of new birds for your growing interest and growing lists.

LIFE LIST

So, eventually it’s time to compile all your sightings into a life list – simply, a one-stop record of every bird species you’ve seen, anywhere and everywhere. You can pull together your life list the old-fashioned way – on a master paper checklist – or take advantage of various programs on the internet to do it for you. By entering your daily sightings into a universal database such as eBird, you build your life list while also contributing to biological research and conservation efforts. The abundance of data entered into this scientific record by thousands of birders like you is used to track bird populations, numbers, distributions and trends, and to inform conservation policy and action. You’ve combined the recording of your sightings with a scientific purpose and have become a citizen scientist! A bonus is that, if you enter all your sightings into eBird, your life list will be displayed, with accompanying pictures on Merlin, the very popular bird app. Just be sure to check your list twice when making it. You should ensure that you have a positive identification for each species – no guessing!

BUCKET LIST OF BIRDS

At some point in time, you realize you will never see all the birds you want to see, so it may be time to make a bucket list of birds. These will be the birds on your “most wanted” list, the various species that, for whatever reasons, have particularly grabbed your interest or your desire to see them. A bucket list of birds gives you something to look forward to, plan, dream about and GO! It may involve travel to exotic or remote destinations, or within your local county, city, province or country. Whatever it may be, the thrill of the pursuit, and ultimately the sighting when it finally arrives, is a birder’s moment of pure joy!

Lists document your progression from backyard birder to world lister or to wherever you most comfortably land in between. Your checklists will be an aide-mémoire for your adventures and will provide fond recollections of the birds you’ve seen and the places you’ve been. Check! OH

Atlantic Puffins

Baltimore Oriole

Crested Caracara

Cuban Tody

STORY ANDREW HIND | ILLUSTRATION SHEILA BRITTON

STAGING TO SELL Does it Pay Off?

Home staging is on the rise in the real estate industry, but many people are unfamiliar with the concept. Staging is one more thing to add to a lengthy list when a homeowner decides to sell.

Rather than viewing staging as a task, consider it an investment.

Begin by understanding that staging is not the same as decorating. Decorating is about the current homeowner and their taste. Instead, staging is about the potential homeowner. It’s designed to make the home appeal to as many people as possible.

While you certainly can sell a home without the services of a professional stager (data shows that most homes sold are not staged), there are real benefits to employing one.

“Staging is very important,” asserts realtor Terri Lynn Gibson, who services the Parry Sound region. “Putting your home in the best light is time and money well spent. Many buyers can’t visualize the potential of a prospective purchase, to see what it could be, unless they see and feel it. Staging helps with that. It’s a form of inspiration.”

Ellen Oelbaum of Stylist Home Interiors agrees. She provides staging services in the Southern Georgian Bay area.

“Good design removes doubt, creates clarity and helps customers feel at home the moment they walk in,” she explains. “We view every project through a photographer’s lens. While

many refer to it as staging, we prefer to think of it as editing and styling – refining what’s already there. It’s about proportion, scale, flow and tone, pulling all the elements together to tell a story that suits both the home and its target demographic.”

Staging is about enabling the buyer to see themselves gathering for dinners in the kitchen or enjoying views from the deck. It’s about building an instant connection.

The numbers bear out a stylist’s worth. According to the Real Estate Staging Association (RESA), professionally-styled homes can sell up to 73 per cent faster and command five to 25 per cent higher offers compared to unstaged homes.

Yet, many sellers are hesitant to stage their homes because of the perceived effort or potential added costs involved. After all, not everyone has the time or ability to empty their home of furnishings and store them somewhere while the stager brings in new items to showcase the home.

This is one of the reasons why staging is a relatively new phenomenon in the Parry Sound District, especially as it relates to cottage sales. “Here, a lot of sales are turn-key, two-season cottages where the building is sold as is, furnishings included,” explains realtor Terri Lynn. “When it comes to these rural lots, it’s not realistic to move all of one’s furnishings out.”

Thankfully, staging doesn’t need to be so intensive.

“For occupied homes, we often work with existing pieces – editing, rearranging and adding in select art, lighting, textiles or accessories to elevate the look,” explains Ellen. “For vacant properties, we bring in furnishings and décor that are scaled and styled to match the home and appeal to buyers. This is lifestyle styling – a visual translation of how someone might live in the space.”

There are other components to making a home or cottage ready to capture a buyer’s attention, including fresh paint and repairs. The realtor, stager and homeowner should work together to create an actionable plan.

The cost of staging varies immensely and can be dictated by factors such as the size of the home, scale of the project, local market conditions, vacancy status (staging an empty house typically costs more) and expertise of the stager. As a rule of thumb, some real estate professionals recommend budgeting one to two per cent of the home’s list price for staging.

So, who pays for the staging? It’s a fair question, and one worth asking your realtor about up front.

In some cases, the realtor pays for the staging from a budget that also covers photography – interior, exterior, drone – and marketing,” says Terri Lynn. “But it’s typically part of a standard commission, so often the homeowner pays.”

In short, responsibility for staging costs is determined by the agreement between the seller and their real estate broker. It’s worth keeping in mind that, as discussed above, there will be a return on investment in the form of the home selling faster and for top dollar.

Home stagers are popping up faster than ever, and the industry is maturing. It’s important to be able to identify the good ones.

ELLEN SUGGESTS LOOKING FOR SOMEONE WHO:

3 Has a strong, design-driven portfolio.

3 Understands the psychology of buyers and how to market to them.

3 Designs for the demographic and style of your specific market.

3 Communicates clearly and can adapt to the home’s needs and timeline.

Home staging is viewed as one of the most effective marketing strategies for selling a home, asserts Ellen. “Staging is design, done with purpose, and the goal is always to help your home stand out, sell faster and feel unforgettable.” OH

STORY MARG BRUINEMAN PHOTOGRAPHY SANDY MACKAY

Wish COME TRUE

With a foyer dubbed, the lobby, an upstairs living area named, the condo and a sunroom known as the Simcoe room, a local family has created their forever home on a property overlooking Lake Simcoe.

It began during a drive through the country when the homeowner spotted a small cottage on the Carthew Bay property.

“I grew up with a family summer cottage and I always wanted to go back to having a peaceful place on the water. But my husband was a city boy, and the waterfront wasn’t so important to him,” says the homeowner. “So, we lived in the south end of Barrie for 30 years.”

Eventually they took the plunge, purchasing the property just before the pandemic. They envisioned what could replace it while spending time there and working with an architect. The final plans were somewhat altered along the way to accommodate one of their grown children and her son.

When the pandemic hit, property prices escalated, and it clearly became time to sell the Barrie house. They spent the next two years in a small rental as the two-storey house with a basement walk-out to the lake came together.

Meanwhile, designer Michael Miller, owner of Aboda Decor, was invited to work on the interior with the goal of creating a cohesive design and sourcing all the furniture so that as soon as the house was ready, the family would be able to move in. Aboda Decor is an award-wining independent furniture store in Barrie with impressive design services.

“The homeowner has an incredible sense of style and design,” says Michael. “She’s next level and I helped her with that.” Continued on page 75

Views from the dock are stunning. The home is encased by lush trees, meticulous landscaping and multiple entertainment zones. The dock was built by Big Daddy’s Docks and the pyramid fire pit is from Iron Embers. ABOVE: The upper deck offers sprawling views of Lake Simcoe. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a morning cup of coffee or unwind with a glass of wine.

The inky blue board-and-batten siding is a contemporary choice for the exterior. The wood-finished garage door and white timber-frame entryway work in harmony. Allium flowers are planted along the stone walkway.

home & designer

ABOVE LEFT: There is plenty of storage built by Innovative Wood Worx in the front foyer. LEFT: Two white chairs in the living room provide a perfect place to soak up waterfront views. ABOVE: The living room is decorated with a neutral, warm colour palette. Large windows drench the space with light and vaulted ceilings breathe air into the space. The built-in shelving around the TV was crafted by Innovative Wood Worx.

This was the second project they worked on together, so the homeowner and designer were familiar with each other’s tastes and styles. They were able to complement each other as they further developed colour schemes along with paint and finishes. Local colour consultants Sue Kay and Haley Kay of Sue Kay & Co. also helped with the overall design and collaborated with Michael on the interior elements.

The home’s final design allows the garage to meld into the house with the living space below, above and around it. The driveway was paved by Road Readie Paving. All cabinetry is custom-made by Innovative Wood Worx, including in the spacious kitchen and front foyer. Beachside stylings throughout include blues with white stripes, a white shiplap ceiling on the front porch and lots of granite on the floor of the Simcoe room overlooking the lake. Most of the home’s tile was sourced at Irvine Carpet One Floor & Home

“I told my husband if we buy this property and build a house, I’m going out in a body bag,” laughs the homeowner. “I told him it made sense to build an elevator.” She presented him with a modest proposal, pointing out that one year’s accommodation at a retirement home would cost more than the price of the elevator, which they sourced from Federal Elevator Overall, the home was designed with accommodation in mind, featuring wide doorways and smooth thresholds in between rooms.

ABOVE: This is the basement flex space. Chairs offer space to lounge, but when guests come to stay, a Murphy bed pivots down from its cabinet. A glass sliding panel from The Sliding Door Company can pull out on the left to transform the area into a private nook. OPPOSITE,

TOP: The Simcoe room embodies a sense of luxurious comfort. Cosy furnishings, a stone-encased fireplace and granite floors give the room a lakeside feel. BOTTOM LEFT: The thoughtfully added elevator allows the homeowners to age in place. BOTTOM RIGHT: Views from the balcony showcase the well-manicured backyard and sprawling lake views.

Given the size of the property, which required space for the septic system and a setback, there was no space to include posts for the balconies on the top and main floors, so they were cantilevered instead. It excluded the possibility of an outside staircase and that’s how the top floor became known as the condo, making the elevator doubly handy. The homeowners have created a system allowing food to be prepared on the top level, and then easily moved on serving carts to the waterfront via the elevator.

ABOVE: The kitchen is a feast for the eyes. The dark cabinetry stretches to the ceiling and is built by Innovative Wood Worx. The extra-large island offers seating for many with bar stools from Aboda Decor. OPPOSITE, TOP LEFT: A pass-through window above the sinks allows for seamless hosting capabilities. TOP RIGHT: The kitchen appliances are from Barber & Haskill. BOTTOM: Beautiful artwork chosen by the homeowner brings a pop of colour to the dining area.

home & designer

The main floor with its generous foyer allows a view straight through the house to the water. It was meant largely for guests but is currently occupied by their daughter. There is direct access to the three-car garage, which is equipped with a hydraulic lift for extra space.

Downstairs, they created a kitchen outfitted with a washer/dryer. The basement walk-out includes a full gym, a desk nook and an amenity room with space for musical instruments. A sitting area also doubles as an extra guest bedroom with a Murphy bed and a collapsable opaque glass wall for privacy. Bateman Fine Cabinetry created all the cabinetry on the lower level, including the kitchen. Bateman also provided acoustic panelling and an acoustic wall between the piano and office.

ABOVE: Coat hooks and a bench in the front foyer add even more functionality to the space. ABOVE RIGHT: The basement recreation room is built for entertaining. Bateman Fine Cabinetry crafted the TV wall unit and acoustic panelling. RIGHT: The home gym provides a private and customized space for workouts.

home & designer

Finally, a dry boathouse overlooks the lake providing a comfortable sitting area for the family and their guests. It is outfitted with automated bug screens.

The goal of this build was to create cohesiveness through every room of the home. The homeowners and Michael had already selected key pieces of furniture. Some custom throws, duvet covers and pillows were created by a local artisan, which helped to form the foundation of the overall colour scheme.

Once the home was completed, all the furniture and decorating elements, gathered and stored in a warehouse, were moved on site allowing for early occupation of the home. “Aboda Decor delivered pretty well everything in one fell swoop,” says Michael. OH

The boathouse is the perfect spot to enjoy al fresco dinner lakeside. Automatic screens and heaters add comfort and extended seasonal use. RIGHT: A soaker tub in the primary en suite creates a spa-like feel. BELOW RIGHT: Aboda Decor and the homeowner chose beautiful dark wood furniture for the bedroom.

BELOW: The table and chairs and a cosy lounge sofa in the boathouse offer more space for family and guests to lounge.

Flash

LASAGNA Roll-Ups

A delicious spin on classic lasagna – these rolled-up bundles are easy to serve and packed with cheesy goodness.

INGREDIENTS

12 lasagna noodles, boiled and drained

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 egg

1 cup chopped cooked spinach (fresh or frozen, drained well)

Salt and pepper to taste

2 cups marinara or bolognese sauce

INSTRUCTIONS

Preheat oven to 400°F.

In a bowl, mix ricotta, ½ cup mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, spinach, salt and pepper.

Lay cooked noodles flat. Spread 2-3 tablespoons of filling on each noodle, followed by sauce, then roll tightly. Spread ½ cup marinara in the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange roll-ups seam side down.

Pour remaining marinara on top and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10 minutes until bubbly. OH

BEST BEFORE vs. EXPIRATION DATES

WHAT’S THE REAL DIFFERENCE?

STORY BAILEY FRANKLYN ILLUSTRATION SHEILA BRITTON

Have you ever thrown out food simply because it was past its best-before date? If so, you’re not alone. Those dates on packaged foods can be confusing, even for the savviest label reader.

Not fully understanding the difference between best-before dates and expiration dates can lead to the disposal of perfectly good food, contributing to unnecessary food waste and higher grocery bills.

Expiration dates and best-before dates are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same thing.

BEST BEFORE

Best-before dates tell us about the quality of unopened products. The food will be at its freshest, tastiest and most nutritious if consumed before the date listed on the product. If a food is past its best-before date, it may still be safe to eat, but it may not look or taste its best.

Foods with a shelf life of less than 90 days (excluding fresh produce) are required to have a best-before date. Foods that have a shelf life of more than 90 days (canned foods, or dry foods like pasta or grains) don’t require a best-before date, although many companies add one.

EXPIRATION

Expiration dates are only required on five specific products in Canada: infant formula, meal replacements, nutritional supplements, very low-calorie foods sold only by pharmacists and formulated liquid diets for oral or tube feeding. If these products have passed their expiration date, they should be thrown out. Unless you’re purchasing one of these products, chances are you’ll only be referencing the best-before date.

Now that we understand the difference between expiration and best-before dates, how can we use them to reduce food waste and lower our grocery bills? Here are some suggestions:

Food is best before the date listed on the packaging if it is stored properly. If it is not stored correctly, then it will likely go bad well before its best-before date.

Keep in mind that the best-before date only applies to an unopened product. Once it’s opened, that date may change.

Extend the shelf life of certain foods by freezing them if they won’t be used immediately.

Clean out and reorganize your fridge, freezer and pantry once or twice a year. This helps you figure out what foods you have on hand that are still good to use, and what can be thrown away. When reorganizing, place open containers and packages at the front to ensure they get used before unopened products.

While best-before dates refer to the overall quality of a food rather than its safety, there may be times when a food needs to be discarded before its best-before date. If a food looks or smells off, it’s best to toss it. If a canned food is dented, bulging, leaking or rusted, don’t eat the contents regardless of the best-before date. Always use your best judgement. OH

Bailey Franklyn is a Registered Dietitian living in Meaford.

Before You Buy: Is Your Builder Licensed?

Buying a newly built home is a major milestone. But before you start picking paint colours, confirm something essential: is your builder licensed?

In Ontario, all new home builders and sellers must be licensed by the Home Construction Regulatory Authority (HCRA) — a not-for-profit that licenses and regulates their professional conduct. It also provides tools and resources to help buyers make informed decisions.

And did you know? Ontario is the only province where licensed builders must follow a mandatory Code of Ethics — setting clear standards for professionalism, honesty, and integrity.

A licence isn’t just paperwork — it’s the law. It confirms the builder meets mandatory requirements such as financial planning, project management, and knowledge of the Ontario Building Code. It also signals a commitment to professionalism and integrity.

Unlicensed builders haven’t met these standards. That can leave you vulnerable to poor construction and limited recourse if something goes wrong.

Check the Ontario Builder Directory

Your first step should be verifying your builder’s licence. The Ontario Builder Directory (obd.hcraontario.ca), hosted by the HCRA, lists over 7,000 builders and sellers. It includes licence status, years active, homes built, and any past regulatory actions or convictions.

You can also see if a builder is involved in insolvency proceedings — a key risk indicator.

If a builder isn’t listed, it may mean they’re unlicensed — and that’s a red flag. If you’re unsure, contact the HCRA at 416-487-HCRA (4272) or email info@hcraontario.ca.

If you have concerns about a licensed builder’s conduct, you can also file a complaint through the HCRA website.

Buying a home should feel exciting — not uncertain. Before you commit, verify your builder is licensed.

FULL-SERVICE SOLUTIONS

These diverse businesses have everything you need to polish your home to perfection.

PHOTOGRAPHY DOUG CRAWFORD

“The answer here is always yes.”

STRONG TEAM

Luke has been in the contracting industry for 25 years. His expertise helped him build a team of fully certified professionals. No job is too big or too small for his crew. “We don’t use jack-of-all-trades for our projects,” Luke says. “We use a master of each trade.”

HOME

OPTIONS MADE EASY

Known as Barrie’s full-service custom design centre, Home Options Made Easy has been remodelling homes for nine years. “We’re the designer, contractor and supplier all in one,” owner Luke Tosky says. He built his company with one goal: to blend the world of design and contracting to create a seamless building experience. “It minimizes errors,” he adds. “And gives clients the best of both worlds.”

THE PROCESS

Their bright and inviting showroom is in Barrie’s south-end. “Clients come in, they give us their ideas and we put together a master plan,” he explains. “We then supply the products and get our contractors to take care of the work.” They proudly offer premium Canadian-made materials, 30 lines of cabinetry and competitive prices. This is truly your one-stop shop.

Janessa Rojas, Luke Tosky, Serena Fitchett & Dena Labbaf

people & places

CLIMATE CONTROLLED

With an 87,000 sq. ft. enclosed nursery, they grow and supply only the highest quality products. “You can walk in here and find everything you need to complete a project from start to finish,” says store manager Kevin Johnson. “Plus, our knowledgeable team knows what they’re doing and are happy to help.”

ROOTS FOR YOUTH

Supporting Simcoe County is a top priority for the Bradford Greenhouses team. In 2018, the Ferragine family created the charitable foundation, “Roots For Youth.” The goal is to help send children to postsecondary school. In 2024, they raised over $50,000 at their annual golf tournament. This year’s tournament will take place on September 12, 2025. For more information, visit rootsforyouth.com.

“Ready, set, grow!”

Kevin Johnson & Vanessa Ferragine

BRADFORD GREENHOUSES GARDEN GALLERY

High quality, diverse selection and premium service. This is what makes Bradford Greenhouses Garden Gallery one of Ontarios’s most renowned nurseries. The Ferragine family started their company in 1975, and since then, the business has flourished. Their sprawling 200,000+ square foot store on County Road 90 has everything from plants and garden tools to home décor and fashion.

Crystal Wicklum

EMISON HOME IMPROVEMENT

This family-owned renovations company has been specializing in custom cabinetry and interior finishes since 2020. Owner Travis LeSaux has rooted his business in honesty, reliability and raw craftsmanship. From stand-alone accent walls to complete room transformations, Emison Home Improvement will leave a lasting impression.

PERSONALIZED SERVICES

“I’ll come right to a client's home to see the space and find out what they need before starting a new project,” he explains. His sharp attention to detail and natural woodworking abilities makes the impossible possible. “And I’ll find a way to stay within your budget,” he adds. He’s fuelled by a commitment to excellence, which leaves his clients satisfied time and time again.

“If you can’t buy it, we can build it. Anything is possible.”

A TRUE CARPENTER

“I’ve always had a knack for taking something raw and rough and turning it into something refined and polished,” Travis says. He runs his business out of Victoria Harbour, but services Midland, Barrie, Orillia, the GTA and surrounding areas. Whether you need custom cabinetry, furniture refinishing, hardwood installation, trim work or a custom kitchen, he can handle it all.

Travis LeSaux

people & places

THE DOWNTOWN STORE

Nestled on the corner of King Street in Midland, the sprawling, colourful store is always full of friendly faces and vibrant products. Owner Yvonne Howell leads her team with care and takes pride in building lasting relationships with her customers. “Just last week I had a customer come in who bought a couch from me 20 years ago,” Yvonne says. “And she told me she still loves it to this day.”

SIMPLY COUNTRY FURNITURE

With more than 30 years in the business, Simply Country Furniture is a familyowned-and-operated business that puts passion and care into every sale. Whether you’re looking for a new sofa, dining table, reclining chair, bedroom set or a piece of décor, Simply Country has something for every home. Their team offers design consultations and no high-pressure sales, making every visit an enjoyable experience.

“We don’t want to see you only once; we want to see you come back time and time again.”

CANADIAN-MADE

Shopping locally has never been easier. The store proudly carries leading Canadian manufacturers for upholstery, including Decor-Rest, Cardinal Woodcraft and ELRAN. Their sister store, Simply Home Furnishings, run by Yvonne’s daughter, Ashley Wagenaar, also carries a vast variety of Canadian products. The two stores work in tandem, offering you a more diverse, extended shopping experience.

Yvonne Howell & Ashley Wagenaar

CELEBRATE LIFE, THEIR WAY

Let laughter, memories and shared moments of your loved one take centre stage as you celebrate a life well-lived. Simple Traditions by Steckley-Gooderham o ers a relaxed, intimate gathering space where family and friends can share stories and nd comfort together – without the formality of a conventional service.

people & places

SATURDAY AFTERNOONS

One of Midland’s most beloved home stores, Saturday Afternoons, is known for its curated selection of décor, furniture and accessories. It is entering an exciting new chapter under the ownership of Ashley Downs. The store has been in the community for more than 20 years, and her decision to take the business was rooted in carrying the legacy. “Don’t fix what’s not broken,” she reflects.

A SOURCE OF INSPIRATION

FINDING FOREVER PIECES

“Some people assume we are just a furniture store, or just a décor store,” says Ashley. “But we’re both.” You can find a curated selection of high-quality furniture, décor, jewelry, skincare, clothing and accessories at any price. “The tariffs forced us to find more Canadian brands and freshen up our inventory while adding women-owned pieces,” she adds. But the result was positive as shoppers are happy to support local. She’s now working to build a fresh online store.

Ashley got the keys in February and closed for one month to give the store a revamp. “We painted and redid the floors to freshen things up,” she says. The renovations created an updated shopping experience that is refined and chic. “The heart and soul of why I bought this store is to honour its calming and inspiring essence,” she adds.

“It doesn’t matter if you’re buying or not, I want to create a space for people to walk in and feel like they’re right at home.” OH

SEE OUR DIRECTORY FOR ALL CONTACT INFORMATION.

Ashley Downs

Katelyn Patrick-Rainey

Creative THANKSGIVING TABLESCAPES FOR TOTS

STORY NICOLE HILTON

Maybe being put at the kids’ table isn’t all that bad. Big dinner gatherings like Thanksgiving can be stressful with countless hours of meal prep and the challenge of keeping guests of all ages entertained. Kids might be faced with unfamiliar dishes (hello, Brussels sprouts) and end up eating nothing but a big bowl of Jell-O salad. But with a thoughtfully curated and interactive set-up, you can create a playful Thanksgiving table full of kid-friendly touches – from plates with personality to amusing décor that keeps little ones engaged long after the pumpkin pie is served. Here are a few tips for making the kids’ table the best seat in the house.

WHIMSICAL THEMES

Aside from a general Thanksgiving theme with a stimulating mix of pumpkins, pine cones, turkeys and a whole lot of orange, there are plenty of other ideas you can come up with to make the kids’ table special. Think about how to tap into children’s imaginations and what they love most about fall.

Try a pumpkin patch theme, where each child gets to “pick” a mini pumpkin from the centre of the table to decorate or take home. Or opt for a forest theme, with each place setting featuring a different item you might find on an autumn walk, such as an acorn, pine cone, colourful leaf or felt critter.

For older kids, consider a gratitude theme, where everyone writes down something they’re thankful for on a card and takes turns sharing it with the group. Create a memorable way to start the meal on a meaningful note and help kids around the table connect.

DESIGN HOME GIFT & PAPER INC.: Mud Pie, Plates

DESIGN HOME GIFT & PAPER INC.:

Pie, Thanksgiving Place Card Holders

SERVE THE FUN FIRST

Set the scene with creative seating and eye-catching decorations that spark excitement the moment guests arrive. Depending on the age group, consider a mini table with appropriately sized chairs or opt for a cosy set-up with floor cushions around a low table.

Add festive flair with themed garlands and table décor such as friendly turkey figurines, pumpkins with personality or leafy accents in autumn colours. Personalized place cards make finding a seat part of the fun, and themed crackers filled with paper hats, silly jokes and tiny wooden animals are always a hit.

To keep small hands busy, set out colouring placemats with crayons or roll out a big sheet of kraft paper as a DIY table covering for the perfect distraction while the grown-ups are passing the stuffing.

KID-FRIENDLY TABLEWARE

Set the stage for a less-mess meal with tableware that’s safe, sturdy and easy to clean. Plates and cups made from melamine or bamboo are ideal for little diners, as they’re lightweight, durable and more resistant to breakage than traditional dishware.

Choose bright colours and playful shapes that encourage conversation around the table. Don’t worry about matching every place setting perfectly, because mixing and matching bowls, plates and cups adds visual interest and a sense of fun. Toss in a whimsical napkin for an extra seasonal accent.

When it comes to cutlery, you can keep it simple with a matching bamboo set or go bold with fancy utensils that feel a bit more grown-up when your youngest guests have been sequestered to the table for tots. OH

PAPER E. CLIPS: Meri Meri, Happy Thanksgiving Garland Set

CARSIM TRADING INC.: Fall Squirrel & Best Friends Forever Napkins

DAVID SHAW DESIGNS: Splendide, Bella Rose Gold (Florence)

DANICA: Now Designs Autumn Plenty Thanksgiving Felt Napkin Ring

DANICA: Now Designs Autumn Plenty Thanksgiving Napkins

DANICA: Now Designs Autumn Plenty Thanksgiving Runner

PAPER E. CLIPS: Meri Meri, Earthy Small Reusable Bamboo Plates

PAPER E. CLIPS: Meri Meri, Earthy Reusable Bamboo Cups

PAPER E. CLIPS: Meri Meri, Mixed Thanksgiving Honeycomb Decorations

PAPER E. CLIPS: Meri Meri, Reusable Bamboo Pumpkin Plate

PAPER E. CLIPS: Meri Meri, Thanksgiving Colouring Placemats

PAPER E. CLIPS: Meri Meri, Turkey Crackers

Thank you to our local tradespeople for giving high school students a start in their skilled trades careers!

Well over one hundred of our high school co-op students were signed by you as apprentices during the 2024-25 school year with a majority staying on as your employees in the following 30 trades:

• Agricultural Equipment Technician

• Auto Body and Collision Damage Repairer

• Automotive Service Technician

• Baker-Pâtissier

• Brick and Stone Mason

• Cabinetmaker

• Construction Millwright

• Cook

• Educational Assistant

• Electrician - Construction and Maintenance

• General Carpenter

• General Machinist

• Hairstylist

• Heavy Duty Equipment Technician

• Heavy Equipment Operator - Excavator

• Heavy Equipment Operator - Tractor Loader Backhoe

• Horticultural Technician

• Industrial Mechanic Millwright

• Metal Fabricator (Fitter)

• Motorcycle Technician

• Plumber

• Recreation Vehicle Technician

• Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Systems Mechanic

• Residential (Low-Rise) Sheet Metal Installer

• Residential Air Conditioning Systems Mechanic

• Sheet Metal Worker

• Small Engine Technician

• Terrazzo, Tile and Marble Setter

• Truck and Coach Technician

• Welder

Would you like to provide a student with a skilled trade co-op opportunity?

Email Mr. Silvio Bin (Simcoe County District School Board) at sbin@scdsb.on.ca to get started.

We appreciate you paying it forward!

PRYCON CUSTOM BUILDING AND RENOVATIONS INC

Prycon Custom Building and Renovations Inc. is an awardwinning builder celebrating over 30 years in business in Simcoe County and the surrounding areas.

Matt and Steve Pryce, owners of Prycon Custom Building, along with their team, offer a professional, collaborative experience to every client, building custom homes, residential renovations, additions and commercial spaces.

Prycon Custom Building and Renovations’ team of qualified professionals are always on hand to answer any questions or give guidance. We build long-term relationships with every customer experience. Our passion for ensuring each renovation, addition or build is a collaborative approach ensures the satisfaction of our clients.

We bring the vision of our clients to reality. Repeat business and referrals from our clients are a testimony to our quality of work.

The Prycon team cares about the vision of our client and is collaborative in ensuring that vision is realized through our passion for what we do, which makes us unparalleled. Visit our website to view some of our projects: prycon.com Call us at 705.739.0023 or email us at info@prycon.com to make your dreams a reality (Please see ad on pg 41)

BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF NORTH SIMCOE – DO YOU WANT TO CHANGE A CHILD’S LIFE?

By choosing Big Brothers and Big Sisters of North Simcoe as your charity of choice, that is what you would be doing.

The stress our youth are under is incredible. Social media, the pandemic isolation, sexuality/ gender identification, cyber bullying, drugs, and alcohol. It is not easy to be a kid anymore. Sometimes you need a friend who will support you and listen. That is where our mentors come in.

Our most recognized program is our 1:1 match. But did you know we also offer mentoring to children in schools? Teachers and principals identify children that are needing extra support for a variety of reasons. Being bullied, trouble connecting with their teachers/ peers or feeling lonely. Our mentors are there to be a friend, not a counsellor. However, while doing a craft or shooting hoops kids start to talk and open up.

Other programs we offer to support the youth in our community are Big Bunch (social activities for children on the waitlist), Go Girls (healthy bodieshealthy minds), Game On (for male identifying youth focusing on healthy lifestyle practices) as well as Teen Mentoring.

Our programs are supported by volunteer Mentors who assist in igniting the potential of each youth we serve. Help us be #BiggerTogether. For more information on how we support youth in our community and our programs: northsimcoe. bigbrothersbigsisters.ca (Please see ad on pg 43)

CUSTOM WINDOW COVERINGS FOR EVERY HOME

At Era Interiors, we believe your home should be as functional as it is beautiful. As an authorized Hunter Douglas Dealer, we offer a curated selection of premium window coverings – designed to enhance light, privacy and style.

We specialize in personalized service, guiding you through every step – from inspiration to installation. Our free in-home consultations ensure each solution is customized to your needs. Whether you’re seeking energy efficiency, child safety features, or a timeless design statement, we will bring everything to you, providing a custom measurement and quotation at your convenience.

Beyond our expertise in window coverings, we pride ourselves on creating an enjoyable, stress-free experience. We take the time to understand your vision and bring it to life with precision and care.

Want to see our products in person? Find them displayed in the back of Cabin Boy at 251 King Street, downtown Midland. Stroll in, explore our displays, and pick up a card – you can contact us anytime for more information. Or visit our Instagram page @erainteriors.ca to see some of our latest projects!

Let us help you discover how the right window treatment can change the way you see – and feel – about your home. erainteriors.ca

705.427.7091

(Please see ad on pg 115)

HANDSTONE FURNITURE

In this day and age, not many things are built to last. But Handstone Furniture isn’t one of them. We refuse to compromise. It’s been that way since we started in 1999 as a one-man woodworking shop. Today we remain a familyowned Canadian manufacturer of custom-made, solid wood furniture. We still hand-select the kiln-dried walnut, cherry, maple and red oak hardwoods we work with. We continually invest in adding state-of-the-art manufacturing equipment to our facilities. And we never forget that the only thing equal to the precision and accuracy of modern manufacturing process is the technique and attention to detail that comes from having a reverence for old world craftsmanship. We practice lean manufacturing methods and each piece is built-to-order. Handstone Furniture is different. It takes a little longer to build. You’ll wait a little longer to get it delivered. But we think you’ll agree...its lasting beauty is worth it.

To explore our designer collections and vast customizable options visit handstone.ca

(Please see ad on pg 6)

HOME CONSTRUCTION REGULATORY AUTHORITY (HCRA)

The Home Construction Regulatory Authority (HCRA) licenses and regulates the people and companies who build and sell new homes in Ontario. It holds licensed builders to professional standards for competence and ethical conduct, giving homebuyers greater confidence when making one of the biggest purchases of their lives – a newly built home.

In addition to licensing, the HCRA investigates complaints about builder conduct and takes regulatory action to address illegal building and selling activity – including those operating without a licence.

To support informed choices, the HCRA maintains the Ontario Builder Directory (obd.hcraontario.ca) – the authoritative source for background information on more than 7,000 builders and sellers across the province. The HCRA also develops educational tools and resources to support home buying and responsible homeownership.

Through these efforts, the HCRA works to enhance professionalism in Ontario’s homebuilding sector while building trust, promoting accountability, and strengthening consumer confidence during the homebuying process. 416.487.HCRA (4272) hcraontario.ca

Follow us @hcraontario

(Please see ad on pg 87)

DECOLA WINDOWS + DOORS INC

Family owned and operated in Barrie since 1993, DeCola Windows + Doors Inc has been supplying quality window and door products to Barrie, Simcoe County, Collingwood, The Blue Mountains, Muskoka and beyond. With an attention to detail and a focus on service, we strive to help you complete your new build, renovation, or addition project with the perfect product for you.

With suppliers from across Canada and overseas, we can help turn your dream home into reality. Modern or traditional styles, with vinyl, hybrid, wood, aluminum, and fibreglass options available, we can customize your windows and doors exactly how you want them.

Whether you are a contractor, builder, renovator, or homeowner, our experienced team will work with you to bring your project from the planning stages to the finished product. Our projects can range from single window replacements to complete new construction packages and everything in between.

Stop by our showroom to see the products we carry, view some past projects on our website for inspiration, or call or email the office to discuss your project with one of our product experts.

We look forward to working with you!

decola.ca info@decola.ca

705.725.8111

(Please see ad on pg 115)

HENNE CONSTRUCTION & CONSULTING

At Henne Construction & Consulting, every project starts with a conversation – and ends with a space you’ll love for years to come. Based in Tiny, Ontario, I specialize in turning visions into reality through thoughtful home renovations, detailed remodelling and skillful restorations.

I believe your home should tell your story. That’s why I work closely with you to understand not just what you want, but how you live. Whether I’m building a custom kitchen that becomes the heart of your home, crafting cabinetry and built-ins that blend beauty with function, or reimagining a dated space into something fresh and timeless, my focus is on quality and precision at every stage.

With custom carpentry, I create pieces and finishes that are uniquely yours – intricate trim, handcrafted furniture, elegant wainscoting, wall and ceiling treatments, or shelving that fits your life perfectly. Each detail is designed to add character, value, and comfort.

For full home renovations and remodelling, I manage the process from start to finish –coordinating trades, ensuring structural integrity, and keeping the project on track. The result?

A smooth, stress-free experience and a home that feels like it was always meant to be yours.

Your dream home isn’t just a project – it’s my passion.

705.970.3811

henneconstruction.ca

(Please see ad on pg 23)

CELEBRATING 23 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE – HAPPY ANNIVERSARY,

DESERT TILE CANADA!

Congratulations to Desert Tile Canada on celebrating its 23rd year in business right here in Barrie! Since opening its doors in September 2002, Desert Tile has been a trusted name in tile design and installation, known for its dedication to quality, style and outstanding customer service.

With a passion for tiles that spans decades, Desert Tile Canada continues to offer unique, high-grade selections sourced from around the world. Whether you’re planning a full renovation, updating your bathroom, or adding a stunning new backsplash, their expert team is ready to help you find the perfect fit for your space.

Stop by our showroom to explore the latest tile samples; new styles arrive every week, there’s always something fresh to discover. From classic to contemporary, Desert Tile Canada has the perfect tile flooring to accent your home with elegance and personality.

Here’s to 23 years of transforming homes, one tile at a time. Happy Anniversary, Desert Tile Canada!

551 Bryne Dr, Unit O, Barrie

705.730.6989

desertile.com

(Please see ad on pg 14)

Gorgeous FROM GARAGE TO

STORY RENEE ALKASS | PHOTOGRAPHY NAT CARON

“You shouldn’t underestimate what you can do with your property,” says Michele Bowman, who transformed her detached garage into a charming three-bedroom carriage house.

Continued on page 106

home & designer

In2012, Michele and her husband Rick fell in love with their acre-and-a-half lot in Midhurst and immediately saw its potential. “It gave us an opportunity,” she says. “A good project to put in our back pockets.” Set within a multitude of mature trees, the lot is embraced by farm fields that establish a calm, serene backdrop, especially when the crops are in.

The existing garage had a storage loft on top and it was always a project waiting to happen. But 13 years ago, it was unusual for property owners to accommodate two dwellings on one lot. It took the More Homes, More Choice Act, passed in 2019, to change the game. The legislation aimed to provide more housing options and ensure that growth pays for growth. Garden suites became a new option.

After Michele retired from the Simcoe County District School Board Construction Department, she decided she wasn’t finished working yet. She put all the experience she gained as a drawing technician to good use and began her small, home-based design studio: Michele Bowman Designs. The business came to life in 2020, marking her 60th birthday, and prides itself on offering personalized design services to create comfortable, memorable and inspiring spaces. In February 2024, she was finally ready to tackle her garage reno.

“The goal was to maintain the character and style of the main home while also reimagining the property as a whole,” Michelle says.

TOP: The mudroom is a bright, functional entryway to the carriage house. It acts as a transitional space where guests can remove and store their outerwear. LEFT: Michele Bowman stands casually in front of her 1890s home. The butter yellow exterior matches the carriage house to create a sense of harmony. ABOVE: The mudroom includes laundry amenities and extra storage cabinets. OPPOSITE, TOP: The entry into the carriage house is both inviting and cosy. BOTTOM: The detached garage in its entirety. The loft space cantilevers to provide more space. A car port was added for extra parking.

home & designer

The original 1890s home still exists as part of the primary residence and features a Kaycan ivory siding that appears to be a beautiful butter yellow. It sits only a few feet away from the detached garage. “It was an economical choice to maintain the same colour and siding materials on the house,” Michele adds. She wanted to preserve a historical look.

Like any project, the Bowmans hit some roadblocks. They needed to navigate bylaws, obtain a minor variance and complete a fire separation so the garage and loft could remain separate. That way, the primary residence can still have access to its garage.  “There is more to planning than meets the eye,” Michele says.

RIGHT: The primary residence evokes a sense of yesteryear charm. A back patio is the perfect spot to admire the mature lot encased by farm fields. Continued on page 110

ABOVE: Natural, earthy finishes in the kitchen provide a sense of comfort and warmth. The intentionally placed window above the sink invites natural light. BELOW: Crownhill Custom Woodworking built the expansive pantry, which offers optimal storage space. A catch-all counter on the left is a spot to drop keys and wallets. OPPOSITE, TOP: The kitchen is defined by simplicity. Michele’s choice to opt for open shelving instead of upper cabinetry was a smart one. It makes the space feel bigger and brighter.

“THE

GOAL WAS TO MAINTAIN THE CHARACTER AND STYLE

OF THE MAIN

HOME WHILE ALSO REIMAGINING THE PROPERTY AS A WHOLE.”

But it was worth the work. Inside, the carriage house is expertly crafted. “I don’t think there is an inch of space we didn’t use,” Michele adds. Spanning 900 square feet upstairs, and an additional 200 square feet in a lower-level mudroom, it was important to design the space with functionality in mind. EC Concrete poured the floor foundation and created the stamped concrete patio entrance.

While the exterior of the carriage house blends well with the primary home, the

interior makes a shift. Simplicity drove the design. The walls and trim are finished in the same shade, Benjamin Moore Baby Fawn, to make touch ups a breeze, especially when renting. Maximized storage solutions tuck everything away and minimize clutter. Multiple windows were added to invite natural light and make the space feel bigger.

Michele structures her design projects with a clear set of goals. When working with her clients, she starts by understanding what their needs are and how a room must function.

Over the course of multiple meetings, the home’s design and style are shaped into something completely unique to the homeowners themselves. It’s the approach she took when designing the carriage house.

The kitchen design started with the question: “How can I store everything without the use of traditional upper cabinetry?” The result is a balanced, open space style that functions well for daily living. It has a large pantry, open shelves and everything one could need in a small, yet fully functional, home. Continued on

ABOVE: The open-concept design makes every room in the carriage house feel connected. Michele designed the living room with a palette of natural tones to ensure it would transition well throughout the years. LEFT: A workspace was an important addition, and the fourfoot-wide hallway was the perfect space to squeeze in a desk. OPPOSITE: A gas fireplace in the living room makes the area feel extra cosy, especially in winter.

home & designer

The suite holds three bedrooms, one bathroom, an office nook with a four-foot-wide hall and a sun-drenched living room. Tayjer Plumbing completed all the plumbing work. The entire space is decorated in a soft, natural colour palette. “I’m very aware of the lifespan of a colour,” Michele reflects. She notes that earthy tones are most prominent in her home designs today. “I still bring colour into a space, but now it’s softer,” she adds. “It makes for a more transformative home.”

Continued on page 114

ABOVE LEFT: The primary bedroom is decorated with a floral bedspread. A large bedside window drenches the room in natural light. ABOVE RIGHT: The bathroom features a unique green shower tile for a pop of colour. RIGHT: A circular mirror above the vanity is a stylish focal point.

home & designer

The project turned out to be a huge success. Rick and Michele are thrilled with their choice to renovate. The carriage house has added considerable value to their property as it can be considered a multigenerational space, Airbnb, or extended living quarters for out-of-town family visitors.

Michele feels blessed to spend this next chapter of her life providing personalized design services to her community. It’s the type of work that fuels her soul. “I am thrilled to be living out a dream,” she says. OH

LOCAL SOURCE GUIDE

• AllTECH Climate • Michele Bowman Designs • Bullseye Utilities • Candoor

Overhead Doors Ltd. • Crownhill

Custom Woodworking • EC Concrete

• Espey D Robert Excavating & Septic Services Ltd. • Fence Source • Kaycan

• Odam Electric Inc. • R Squared Builders. • Reynolds Brothers Exteriors

• Simcoe Drywall • Smiley's Homeworx

• Spartan Insulation • Tayjer Plumbing

• Yorkwest Plumbing Supply

RIGHT: This bedroom includes a well-designed closet with optimal storage space. BELOW: The charming porch swing was built as a gift to Michele by her cousin, Doug Lauder.

Paw-fect DESIGNS

STYLISH SPACES WORK FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY, PAWS INCLUDED

STORY BRIANNE SMITH

Who says good design is just for humans? With more than 70 per cent of Canadian households owning at least one pet, it’s clear our furry companions are more than just animals; they are cherished family members. As a result, interior design is increasingly reflecting that bond. Whether it’s clever built-in features or stylish, pet-friendly materials, designing with pets in mind has become a thoughtful and popular element of today’s renovations and new builds.

Built-in Pet Wash Stations

Pets bring joy, loyalty and a lot of muddy paw prints! Increasingly, homeowners are incorporating pet wash tubs into their mudrooms or laundry areas. Often waist-height and with little steps, this practical design addition makes bath time easier on everyone and helps keep the

contained to one space.

mess

AS SEEN IN OUR HOMES GREY & BRUCE HOLIDAY/WINTER 2018/19 | PHOTO: SANDY MACKAY

AS SEEN IN OUR HOMES OTTAWA SUMMER 2024 | PHOTO: GORDON KING

AS SEEN IN OUR HOMES THE GOLDEN HORSESHOE SPRING 2023

PHOTO: JASON HARTOG

Kitchen Nooks

Designers are getting creative with how to incorporate pet needs seamlessly into highuse areas. It’s not uncommon to find built-in food and water stations tucked into the end of kitchen cabinets or islands that offer a sleek, clutter-free solution to a feeding station. And bonus, it eliminates the tripping hazard of bowls on the floor.

Chic Pet Beds

Pet beds are getting an upgrade. Think custom cushions that match your sofa, built-in sleeping cubbies under staircases or side tables that double as cosy nooks. These thoughtful touches blend form and function without sacrificing your home style or your pet’s comfort.

Pet-Friendly Materials

From washable slipcovers to stain-resistant rugs, there are so many material options on the market that are both beautiful and practical for pet owners. More durable indoor/outdoor fabrics on throw pillows and upholstery can withstand shedding, scratches and spills, all while blending function and style. Shop countless options for pet-resistant flooring that will keep your aesthetic intact while meeting the needs of pets. Many furniture retailers now make it easier than ever by featuring dedicated “pet-friendly” filters or tabs on their websites to help you select the right furniture for both the humans and furry companions in your home. OH

CANCORK: Desert Arable Natural Cork Floating Flooring

COZEY: Margot & Dylan Washable Rugs

BROOKLYN: Deep Sleep Pet Bed

BROOKLYN: Nest Dog Bed

WEST RIVER DESIGN & BUILD: Built-in Dog Crate

AS SEEN IN OUR HOMES HAMILTON SPRING 2019 | PHOTO: KELLY HORKOFF

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.

ALTERNATIVE ENERGY

Diamond Renewable Energy, 29

ARCHITECTS/ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN/ ARCHITECTURAL TECHNOLOGISTS/ DRAFTSMEN & DESIGN

IHD Design Build, 15

AUDIO VIDEO/HOME AUTOMATION/ ELECTRONICS/SMART HOME TECHNOLOGY

Simcoe Audio Video, 11

BATH & BEAUTY/AESTHETICS/ HAIR/SPA

Gravity Salon, 23

BBQS/GRILLS/FIRE PITS

Napoleon Home Comfort, 16

BOAT LIFT SYSTEMS

R & J Machine, 59

BUILDERS

A.N.T. Homes, 13

Alair Homes, 25 Buchanan, 43

DeCarli Contractors, 3

Gilkon Construction Ltd., 21

IHD Design Build, 15

JVL Home Improvements Ltd., 7

Moonstone Timber Frame Log Homes & Cottages, 35

Prycon Custom Building & Renovations, 41, 102 Renovations by Rodgers, 95

Speare Construction & Contracting Inc., 97

CABINETS & MILLWORK/CARPENTRY/ FINE WOODWORKING/CUSTOM FURNITURE

Bateman Fine Cabinetry, 81

Home Options Made Easy, 89 Innovative Wood Worx Inc., 71 K7 Millwork Group, 31 PRF Custom Kitchens, 27

COUNTERTOPS

Desert Tile, 14, 103

DOCKS

R & J Machine, 59

EAVESTROUGHS/SOFFIT/FASCIA

BC Roofing & Renovations, 39

EDUCATION

OYAP Simcoe County District School Board, 101

ELECTRICAL

CP6 Electric, 22

EXCAVATING/SITE PREP/SEPTIC

Harwood’s Construction, 20

EXTERIOR FINISHES/IMPROVEMENTS

Performance Exteriors Inc., 35

FINANCIAL/INSURANCE/ MORTGAGE/INVESTING

Raymond James, 18

FIREPLACES & STOVES/ACCESSORIES

Napoleon Home Comfort, 16

FLOORING

Beach Houze Paint & Design Studio, 12

Desert Tile, 14, 103

End Of The Roll, 121

Irvine Carpet One Floor & Home, 83

FLORAL DESIGN/FLORISTS

Bradford Greenhouses, 39

FUNERAL HOMES/CREMATION

Steckley-Gooderham Funeral Homes, 95

FURNITURE & HOME DÉCOR/ ACCENTS/GIFTS/COLLECTIBLES

Aboda Decor, 71

Bradford Greenhouses, 39

Dwellings Rustic & Refined Living, 35

Handstone Furniture, 6, 102

Simply Country, 99

Simply Home Furnishings, 99

Smitty’s Fine Furniture, 123

The Chesterfield Shop, 10

GARDEN CENTRES/GREENHOUSES/ NURSERIES

Bradford Greenhouses, 39

HEATING & COOLING

Napoleon Home Comfort, 16

HOME IMPROVEMENTS/ RENOVATIONS

Bay Point Contracting, 19

Buchanan, 43

Emison Home Improvement, 17

Gilkon Construction Ltd., 21

Henne Construction & Consulting, 23, 103

JVL Home Improvements Ltd., 7

Prycon Custom Building & Renovations, 41, 102

Ready Pine, 113

Renovations by Rodgers, 95

Speare Construction & Contracting Inc., 97

Total Living Concepts, 63

INTERIOR DECORATING/INTERIOR DESIGN/HOME STAGING

Coralee Monaghan Interiors, 63

Michele Bowman Designs, 113

Sue Kay Home Studio, 57

KITCHEN & BATH

AyA Kitchens of Barrie, 37

Bateman Fine Cabinetry, 81

Bobi Kitchens, 85

Design Loft at Simcoe Building Centre, 99

Home Options Made Easy, 89

Innovative Wood Worx Inc., 71

Lindsay Schultz Kitchens & Cabinetry, 8&9

Nolte Küchen, 85

Ora Kitchens and Bath, 45

PRF Custom Kitchens, 27

LANDSCAPE DESIGN & ARCHITECTURE/LANDSCAPING/ LAWN & GARDEN

Foster Lawn & Garden, 41

LIGHTING

CORSI Lighting & Design, 22

NEW HOME COMMUNITIES

A.N.T. Homes, 13

Braestone, 124

ORGANIZATION/STORAGE

Out of Site Storage, 59

OUTDOOR FURNITURE/STRUCTURES

Barrie LeisureScapes, 57

Springwater Woodcraft, 39

Total Living Concepts, 63

OUTDOOR KITCHENS

Total Living Concepts, 63

PAINTING & DECORATING

Allandale Decorating Centre, 12, 61

Beach Houze Paint & Design Studio, 12

Benjamin Moore, 12

Brae-Con Building Supplies, 12

Housser’s Paint & Wallpaper, 12

Irvine Carpet One Floor & Home, 83

Marchand Painting & Decorating, 63

Tripp’s Paint & Decorating, 12, 61

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 tyler.annette@ourhomes.ca. To have your business listed in our Home Resource Directory, call us to advertise

PAVING/CEMENT/CONCRETE/ INTERLOCK

EC Concrete Inc., 115

Road Readie Paving, 43

PEST CONTROL

Environmental Pest Control, 59

PLUMBING

Plumbtech Plumbing Inc, 59

Tayjer Plumbing Ltd., 113

POOLS/HOT TUBS/SAUNAS/SPAS

Barrie LeisureScapes, 57

REAL ESTATE

Forest Hill Real Estate – Kelly Lazar, David Wagman, 61

RE/MAX By The Bay Brokerage –Katelyn Patrick-Rainey, 97

The Barrie Home Team – Royal LePage

First Contact Realty, 4

The Essence Group – Sarah Bakker, Rebecca Leeds, 71

REGULATORY BODIES

Home Construction Regulatory Authority (HCRA), 87, 103

RESTORATION SPECIALISTS

Restorations by Rodgers, 95

ROOFING

BC Roofing & Renovations, 39

SPECIAL ASSOCIATIONS

Big Brothers Big Sisters of North Simcoe, 43, 102 May Court Club, 18

SPECIAL EVENTS

Makers Market & Holiday Home Tour –May Court Club, 18

Showcase of Homes Tour – Big Brothers Big Sisters of North Simcoe, 43, 102

STAIRS/RAILINGS

Barrie Trim & Mouldings, 5

Creative Design Stairs & Railing, 65

TILE

Desert Tile, 14, 103

TRIM/MOULDING/CASING

Barrie Trim & Mouldings, 5

Design Loft at Simcoe Building Centre, 99

WINDOW TREATMENTS

Allandale Decorating Centre, 12, 61

Era Interiors, 102, 115

Salnek’s Custom Window Treatments, 17

WINDOWS & DOORS

Barrie Trim & Mouldings, 5

Brookstone Windows & Doors, 55

DeCola Windows + Doors, 103, 115

Design Loft at Simcoe Building Centre, 99

Kempenfelt Windows & Doors, 2

cooking at home

Get more recipes at ourhomes.ca/blogrecipes

RECIPE AND PHOTOGRAPHY JENELLE MCCULLOCH

Sweet Potato PIE

A velvety, spiced sweet potato filling in a buttery crust, crowned with whipped cream – a showstopper for any holiday table.

Ingredients

1 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)

3 sweet potatoes, about 1 ¼ pounds (makes about 2 cups, mashed)

2 large eggs

½ cup brown sugar

1 tsp ground cinnamon

1 tsp ground ginger

½ tsp ground or freshly grated nutmeg

¾ tsp salt

2 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted

1 ½ cups halfand-half cream

Whipped cream

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F. Place sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and bake for 20-30 minutes until soft. Let cool. Peel skin off each sweet potato. Tip: Sweet potatoes can be baked and cooled ahead of time.

Preheat oven to 350°F.

In a food processor, blend sweet potatoes until smooth. Add the eggs, brown sugar, spices, salt, unsalted butter and half-and-half. Blend until smooth.

Pour into an unbaked pie crust and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the centre is set. Remove from oven. Let cool completely. Add whipped cream and serve. OH

MAY I USE YOUR Powder Room?

Your powder room is an opportunity to make a bold design statement. OUR HOMES offers inspiration from recent homes we’ve featured.

Best of Ontario Late Summer Fall 2024

pg. 66 (Photo: Larry Arnal)

London & Stratford Spring 2024

pg. 87 (Photo: Jason Hartog)

Waterloo & Wellington County Summer 2025

pg. 52 (Photo: Jules Lee)

London & Stratford Fall 2024

pg. 38 (Photo: Jason Hartog)

Windsor & Essex County Spring 2024

pg. 56 (Photo: Devon Pastorius)

The Golden Horseshoe Spring 2024 – pg. 44 (Photo: Jason Hartog)

Southern Georgian Bay Fall/Holiday 2024 – pg. 74 (Photo: Larry Arnal)

The Golden Horseshoe Spring 2024 – pg. 119 (Photo: Jason Hartog)

Revel in the exclusive opportunity to become a part of Braestone’s thriving community, as only a select few lots remain in our final phase. The community has come together beautifully, a labour of love and exercise in innovation, craftsmanship and design. Not surprisingly, the response has been extraordinary as residents of Braestone are happy to enjoy the remarkable trails and ponds, the horse paddocks and berry patches, the nature preserves, streams and forests and a life, as promised, that is richer and more rewarding. Country living, just 10 minutes away from modern conveniences in Orillia.

YEAR-END MOVE-IN OPTIONS WITH EXCEPTIONAL VALUE!

Distinctive & timeless bungalow, loft & two-storey homesteads on a selection of 1/2 acre to over 1 acre secluded lots.