Our reputation is built on our unique attention to quality & design. We offer a full range of products and services to fulfill all your kitchen & bathroom renovation needs.
At a time when most consumer goods are mass produced in factories half way around the world, every piece of Handstone furniture is designed and handcrafted in Ontario Canada. Not only does this allow the flexibility in manufacturing to offer vast custom choices, you can rest assured that your new purchase is produced with minimal impact on the environment.
Designer Inspired w Customizable w Fine Furniture w Locally Crafted in Ontario w Solid Wood
PROTECTING YOUR INVESTMENT
The most common reason for a homeowner to call an arborist is because something has gone wrong. Be proactive and protect your investment with our plant care program.
THE SCIENCE OF PLANT CARE
At Arborwood, we are always researching the best and latest ways to achieve good soil biology and plant nutrition. This balance encourages long-term resilience, not just instant and temporary results. There are many tools in our belt ranging from small changes to radical shaping or pruning.
872 WHITTIER CRESCENT |
LORNE PARK, MISSISSAUGA
Experience over half an acre of luxurious living with 174 FT of waterfront frontage with riparian rights and expansive views of the city skyline and CN Tower! This is the ultimate home for any entertainer or sportsenthusiast featuring over 7,700 SQFT of above-grade living space with a golf-driving range atop the slate roof and a backyard oasis boasting a waterfall pool, hot tub and terraced gardens. Located on a quiet and private street in the sought-after Lorne Park neighbourhood. Plenty of room to host grand family and friends get-togethers.
3+1 BEDS | 6 BATHS |
If you think of leaders in Real Estate, the name Loretta Phinney, comes to mind and for good reason – you would be hardpressed to find any other realtor out there with the longevity of personal sales achievement for the duration that Loretta has been selling real estate!
MODERNIZED LIVING
Our reputation is built on honesty, transparency, integrity, and exceptional craftsmanship. We seamlessly integrate every aspect of the building process—from consultation and architecture to permits, interior design, demolition, construction, and overall project management. We understand that building, expanding, or renovating can be daunting, but we’re here to make the process as smooth as possible. While challenges may arise, you can trust that we’ll be there to support you every step of the way.
Reach out today to schedule a discovery meeting and explore the possibilities, expected costs, and timelines.
Celebating 13 Years
Whether its privacy you seek, protection from sunlight, or simply adding a touch of style, our window treatments have you covered.
Introducing SMART SHUTTER CANADA, your local window covering manufacturer — the ultimate solution for your window treatment needs. From shutters to shades and blinds for days, take your pick.
Whether you crave privacy, seek sanctuary from the harsh glare of the sun, or simply want to infuse your space with style, our range of window coverings offer the perfect balance of functionality and aesthetics.
From sleek blinds that effortlessly adjust to your desired lighting, to durable shades that shield your home from UV rays, we have the ideal solution for every room.
With our carefully curated selection of fabrics, patterns, and designs, you can customize your window treatments to reflect your unique personality and complement your existing decor.
Say goodbye to compromising on comfort or style. Our window coverings are designed to enhance your living experience, providing you with the privacy, protection, and ambiance you deserve.
Visit us today to explore our collection and discover how our window coverings can transform your home.
ROLLER SHADES
MAKE YOUR DREAMS HAPPEN
When it comes to constructing your dream home, you need a trustworthy, skilled architect. You deserve that same level of expertise from a plastic surgeon who can bring your dream look to life.
The Cosmetic Surgery Clinic has been the go-to destination for aesthetic patients for more than 40 years. Led by plastic surgeons Dr. Robert Shenker and Dr. Stephanie Ma, our team is deeply committed to your well-being and comfort, whether you want a nonsurgical treatment or plastic surgery, such as breast augmentation, a tummy tuck, or a facelift.
We invite you to visit our clinic in Waterloo, where the warmth and elegance of our beautiful 1903 Edwardian home are matched by our passion for making your dreams happen.
The Cosmetic Surgery Clinic 50 Albert Street, Waterloo, ON N2L 3S2, Canada
Phone: (519) 746-1132
www.thecosmeticsurgeryclinic.ca
REGIONAL PUBLISHERS Jamie Jefferson Georgette McCulloch
REGIONAL MANAGING EDITORS Gabrielle Tieman-Lee
REGIONAL PRODUCTION MANAGERS Lynn Derrick & Tracy Shuttleworth
OUR HOMES is a registered trademark of OUR HOMES MEDIA GROUP INC.
OUR HOMES The Golden Horseshoe is published four times a year.
OUR HOMES is distributed free to residents of Oakville, Burlington, Mississauga, Hamilton & Area and the Niagara Region via precision targeted neighbourhood mail. OUR HOMES is delivered The Globe & Mail and Toronto Star subscribers across the GTA. Copies of OUR HOMES are available for free pick up at high traffic locations throughout the region. OUR HOMES is distributed to select business leaders via direct mail.
Please send all letters and/or feedback to OUR HOMES Magazine, 25 Elgin St., Collingwood, ON L9Y 3L6. Or email us at editor@ourhomes.ca. All letters received are subject to editing for grammar and length.
OUR HOMES MEDIA GROUP INC:
EDITORIAL
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Georgette McCulloch
ASSOCIATE EDITORS Lori Davis, Walter Franczyk
DIGITAL EDITOR Tracey Paul
MANAGING EDITORS Walter Franczyk, Donna Luangmany, Sara Martin, Drew Beth Noble, Brianne Smith, Megan Smith-Harris, Gabrielle Tieman-Lee, Janet White Bardwell, Gisele Winton Sarvis
ART
ART DIRECTOR
Tara Chattell
ASSOCIATE ART DIRECTORS
Sheila Britton, Robynne Sangiuliano
DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY
Jason Hartog
PRODUCTION
PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Lynn Derrick
PRODUCTION MANAGERS
Julia Dempsey, Kelly Donaldson, Tracy Shuttleworth
OPERATIONS
MANAGING DIRECTOR, SALES & MARKETING Jamie Jefferson jamie.jefferson@ourhomes.ca
MANAGING DIRECTOR, OPERATIONS Georgette McCulloch
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE & DIRECTOR OF DISTRIBUTION Lisa Ormsby
ACCOUNTING Tyler Annette
ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE Darren Foley
CONTRIBUTORS
Larry Arnal, Sheila Britton, Mike Chajecki, Gregory Fast, Jason Hartog, Nicole Hilton, Andrew Hind, Jeremy James, Chan Khamphoomee, Gina Makkar, Teresa Matamoros, Tiffany Mayer, Jenelle McCulloch, Tamarisk McNalty Stephens, Alex Mihan, Denise O’Connell, Brianne Smith, Larisa Stephaniuk, Aman Than, Gabrielle Tieman-Lee, BG Walker, Denise Willson
OUR HOMES CAN BE FOUND IN THE FOLLOWING MARKETS: • Barrie/Orillia/Midland • The Golden Horseshoe • Grey Bruce • London • Muskoka • Ottawa • Peterborough • Southern Georgian Bay • Toronto & York Region • Wellington County/Orangeville/Caledon/Waterloo Region • Windsor
I’M NOT BIG ON most trends. Maybe it’s how fast they change or perhaps it’s the cost of keeping up with the latest designs.
But lately, one trend that has crept into my Instagram and Pinterest algorithms has captured my attention: interiors in Nancy Meyers movies. It’s a repeat theme for every designer and influencer I follow, and I am here for it.
Nancy Meyers may not immediately come to mind when we think of home décor. But the queen of the feel-good movie really has a way of creating a space that is simultaneously approachable, yet still fantastical. Remember the creamy, peony-filled farmhouse vibe of Meryl Streep’s kitchen/dining room in It’s Complicated? Or the plush overstuffed sofas and ornate brass details in the Father Of The Bride living room? What about every detail in the perfect quaint English cottage in The Holiday. These movie-set homes have at least one memorable room that’s perfect yet unfussy, and never really achievable without a designer’s eye.
The Nancy Meyers look is effortlessly chic, memorable and charming. It’s no surprise the trend has re-emerged for a new generation, and fall is the ideal season to embrace the style.
The four homes in this issue – all unique and original – emulate Nancy Meyers’ style with draw-you-in warmth. You’ll love the Rinaldi model home in Fonthill with its high-ceilings and warm palette, the sprawling Fonthill contemporary smart home surrounded by trees, an open-concept duplex in Hamilton and the architectural family abode in Mississauga.
Inspired by global contemporary design, this Mineola beauty represents the best in architecture and design. Story, page 108. Photography by Jason Hartog
LOCAL FEATURES
32 Style Picks Seasonal products and palettes for warming up your home.
40 Feature Home This showstopping contemporary tree house in Fonthill is designed around three oak trees.
54 Home & Builder Tour the new Forest Park model by award-winning Rinaldi Homes.
64 Spotlight Phase 2 Design Inc. brings vision to reality.
70 Home & Builder A luxury custom home stands out in the heart of Hamilton.
82 People & Places These pros will help you love your home inside and out.
102 Spotlight Designer Furniture Gallery simplifies your purchase of custom furniture.
108 Home & Builder Living a minimalist lifestyle in an architectural marvel in Mineola.
16,000 home deals, $10B in sales, and we are #1 in the GTA for 13 years*. But that’s only possible because of our #1 priority: you. When buying or selling a home, choose the team that always puts you first.
Hanton Cres Caledon
DEPARTMENTS
Editor’s Note
Advice Colour Matters
Good Taste Pucker Up
Entertaining Guest Etiquette
Gardening Fall Clean-Up
Cooking At Home Spooky Cookies
Design Ideas Mood Changers
Decorating Mix Of Metals
Real Estate Bird-Safe Homes
Entertaining Book Club Ideas
Home Resource Directory
Cooking At Home Crispy Goat Cheese
Finishing Touch Hardware Trends
Beautifully-designed furnishings to love for years. Friendly help choosing the ones best for your home. A commitment to eco-friendlier options for our customers and the planet. These are what keep Stoney Creek Furniture a favoured destination for generations. Quality in all we do.
COLOURS for WELLNESS
We all know that paint is one of the most cost-effective ways to transform a space, but did you know that colour is also a powerful tool that can affect your energy level, feelings, and overall well-being? Welcome the wellness movement into your home with the strategic use of colour to reduce stress and anxiety and create a peaceful atmosphere.
Understanding the psychological associations of various colours and the impact of colour combinations can help you decide what colours to integrate into your home to create a desired atmosphere – a restful bedroom, a comforting kitchen, an inviting gathering space or a serene spa-like bathroom.
Colours are broadly categorized as either warm, cool or neutral. Warm colours like yellow, orange and red are energizing – they can stimulate appetite, increase heart rate and promote creativity. Cool colours like blues, greens and violets are restful, stabilizing and soothing and can slow the heart rate, lower blood pressure and calm the nervous system.
Colours can also appear to either advance towards you or recede away from you, making items and rooms of the same size appear larger or smaller. Warm hues and/or intense colours typically advance towards the eye. Walls painted in a warm colour will decrease the apparent size of the space, which can help create a cosy atmosphere. If you want a space to feel more expansive, painting the walls a cooler or more muted colour will give the appearance of the walls receding. A large sectional sofa upholstered in a warm hue will appear visually more substantial than the same sectional sofa upholstered in a cooler-toned fabric.
The simplicity of a monochromatic scheme (one dominant colour) tends to be very harmonious, whereas a complementary scheme (two colours opposite on the colour wheel) provides more contrast, which can stimulate the senses – so mix in moderation if your goal is to create a calm environment.
Also, be aware that different sources of natural and artificial light can affect how colour is perceived. A north-facing room with less direct natural light will feel quite different than a room drenched in warm natural light with a south-west exposure.
Here are some colours you can use in your home to help promote wellness:
WHITE
White represents purity and freshness and is airy and calming. Imagine a landscape covered in a fresh blanket of snow. There is a reason white is a go-to wall colour as it offers a calm canvas for the other elements in the space.
BROWN
Picture the rich, peaty hue of a freshly ploughed field. Earthy and organic with a certain honesty, brown can help create a space that is grounding and comforting. Worn oak floorboards are a great anchor for a space.
GREEN
There is a reason green saw a resurgence during the pandemic. People spent so much time indoors that they were drawn towards the harmony of nature and healing. Houseplants are a great way to integrate the symbolism green offers into your space – renewal, growth and balance.
BLUE
Blue is another dominant colour found in nature. The blue expanse of the sea and the sky on the horizon evokes feelings of tranquility, calmness and freedom. If you hope to create a soothing atmosphere, consider a soft, muted blue tone.
YELLOW
If you’d like to create an uplifting, inviting, and happy space, incorporate a warm, pale yellow (be careful because a bright or intense hue can be too energizing and not at all calming). Like the sun, yellow is warm, cheerful and optimistic.
As with any home improvement project, the purpose is to create a space that feels good to you, so begin by identifying what that looks and feels like. Your home is your sanctuary and should contribute to your overall well-being, regardless of what colour theory may suggest. OH
Designer Tamarisk McNalty Stephens shares her ideas.
BENJAMIN MOORE: Paint in Decorator’s White CC-20
SHERWIN-WILLIAMS: Paint in Pure White 7005
PLANTSOME: Ficus Lyrata Bush
MERCANA: Ocean Fence Framed Wall Art
INDABA: 16” x 24” Hampton Linen Pillow
NORTHERN WIDE PLANK: Artifax River Bed Reclaimed Oak Flooring
Business Owner Strategies Estate & Legacy Strategies
260 Lakeshore Road
260 Lakeshore Road Unit 10 St Catharines, ON L2M 7R4 905-935-8383
10
Catharines, ON L2M 7R4 905-935-8383
jeff.wozniakowski@edwardjones.com
jeff.wozniakowski@edwardjones.com
jeff.wozniakowski@edwardjones.com
cell 905-320-9493
cell 905-320-9493
905-320-9493
519-465-5933
waterloo@quartzco.ca
NATURE inspired
Embrace the changing season with earthy materials and warm palettes!
Inground Pool
Immerspa has the pool you crave. They have premium inground fibreglass pools, inground hot tubs with customizable jets and therapeutic cold-plunge pools crafted with advanced insulation and heating options for year-round enjoyment and relaxation.
281-1462 Centre Rd., Carlisle | 844.663.7772 | immerspa.com
2 THE MILLIONAIRE’S DAUGHTER
Art
Enhance your walls with beautiful original art. Choose from a variety of sizes, styles, colour themes and media to suit and make a statement in your home or business. New art arrives daily.
Timeless design and superior quality, these vintage handcrafted and hand-glazed pots are ideal for fall décor. Both aesthetically pleasing and practical, they are perfect for showcasing dried flowers or pampas grass. Available in a variety of sizes, shapes and warm hues.
64 Hatt St., Dundas | 289.238.8618 | grahamandbrooks.com
4 DAL’S HOME FURNISHINGS
Cabinet Bed
A bed on demand. CabinetBed’s Elite Series transforms from a stylish piece of furniture to a free-standing bed in 30 seconds or less – and closes just as fast. Provide an exceptional sleep experience for overnight guests.
Fall in love with plants! Fall is a great season to plant. Perennials, shrubs, evergreens and trees thrive when planted in warm soil accompanied by cooler air temperatures. Connon Nurseries adds fresh product to their sales yards for your fall plantings.
Nothing adds more style, texture and luxury to a space than a wool carpet. Like a designer sweater for your floors, these wool carpets by Stanton Carpet add warmth to any room and are perfect for the cooler seasons.
256 Bunting Rd., St. Catharines | 905.682.2672 | aristocratfloors.ca
7 HALSON DECOR PAINT & PAPER
Benjamin Moore Paint
Elevate your en suite. Aura Bath & Spa by Benjamin Moore is a luxurious matte-finish paint and primer designed for high-humidity environments. Mildew resistant, it stands up to repeated washing with no colour removal. Try colours Swiss Coffee or Vintage Vogue for a contemporary finish.
1521 Upper Ottawa St., Unit 1, Hamilton | 905.388.9983 | halsondecor.com OH
Swiss Coffee
Vintage Vogue
BLOOD ORANGE Sour
This vibrant Blood Orange Sour cocktail combines tangy blood orange juice with smooth bourbon, a hint of lemon and a touch of sweetness for a refreshing, autumninspired drink.
INGREDIENTS
1 oz fresh blood orange juice
2 oz bourbon
½ oz simple syrup*
¾ oz fresh lemon juice
Ice
Blood orange slice or peel, for garnish
Maraschino cherry, for garnish (optional)
*Simple Syrup: Combine 1 cup sugar and 1 cup water in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil, stirring until sugar has dissolved. Allow to cool. Pour into a clean jar and seal. Store in the refrigerator for up to one month.
DIRECTIONS
Add blood orange juice, bourbon, simple syrup and lemon juice to a cocktail shaker.
Dry shake until the mixture is combined. A dry shake is when you shake the drink without ice. This will create a good layer of foam over the drink. Add ice and shake until chilled. Strain the cocktail into a glass. Garnish with a slice of blood orange or a twist of blood orange peel.
Serve immediately. Enjoy! OH
How to be the ULTIMATE THANKSGIVING GUEST
STORY GREGORY FAST PHOTOGRAPHY ALEX MIHAN
Thanksgiving is such a special time of year.
It’s a day reserved for gratitude, togetherness, and of course, my favourite, delicious food. As someone with a passion for home entertaining, I’ve learned that being the ultimate Thanksgiving guest is an art form in itself. It’s not just about showing up; it’s about making a lasting impression while contributing to the joy of the occasion. So, from one guest to the next, here are some of my go-to tips to help you stand out as the ultimate Thanksgiving guest.
TIP 1
RSVP EARLY AND ARRIVE ON TIME
Starting off with my most important piece of guest advice – be on time. There’s nothing worse for a host than uncertainty about guest numbers. Be courteous and RSVP promptly, and when the big day arrives, aim to arrive on time. Punctuality shows respect for the host’s efforts and starts the festivities off on the right note.
Tablewares: Special Event Rentals
Print material: Niki Kingsmill Fine Art
TIP 2
BRING A THOUGHTFUL AND UNIQUE HOST GIFT
If you really want to make an impression, show appreciation to your host with a gift that reflects the warmth of the occasion. While a bottle of wine is always appreciated, consider going the extra mile with something a little more personalized. For Thanksgiving, I love a harvest basket filled with seasonal goodies like homemade cookies or scones, fresh produce, and florals – you can even add that bottle of wine to this mix. This adds a personal touch that won’t go unnoticed by your host.
TIP 3 OFFER TO HELP WHERE YOU CAN
One simple and thoughtful way to show gratitude is by lending a hand. Whether it’s chopping vegetables, setting the table, or helping with clean-up, trust me when I say your assistance will be greatly appreciated. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to bond with the host and contribute to the success of the meal.
TIP 4 PUT YOUR PHONE AWAY
Thanksgiving is a time to connect with loved ones without distractions. It’s a pet peeve of mine when guests have their heads in their phones, rather than enjoying the company around them. Make a conscious effort to keep your phone out of sight and focus on being present in the moment. Engage in conversation, share stories, and savour the company of loved ones.
TIP 5
SUGGEST OUT-OF-THE-BOX ENTERTAINING IDEAS
Elevate the Thanksgiving experience by suggesting fun and creative activities that everyone can enjoy. I love when a guest is willing to lead the charge in organizing games or group activities to lift the energy of the room. From board games and charades to Thanksgiving trivia, there are plenty of creative ways to keep the festivities lively and engaging.
Remember, being the ultimate Thanksgiving guest isn’t just about what you bring or how you behave – it’s about the positive energy and warmth you contribute to the gathering.
So, as you prepare to gather around the table with loved ones, keep these tips in mind and embrace the spirit of gratitude and celebration. Happy Thanksgiving! OH
Gregory Fast is an entertaining and events expert who hails from Burlington.
Wine: Lost Vineyards
Continued on page 40
The home was designed to fit into the landscape, not compete with it. Surrounded by oaks, a Z-shaped footprint was chosen, allowing nature to tuck around the abode.
TREE HOUSE
When Frank Serravalle first visited the bucolic Fonthill property that would become the setting for his family’s home, he didn’t bother looking inside the wartime house that came with it. Continued on page 42
fFRANK IMMEDIATELY FELL IN LOVE with the gentle sweep of land and the Carolinian forest bracketing it, compelling him to purchase the parcel. He knew he wanted to honour those features when, three years later, he would build the home where he and his wife Vanessa would raise their two daughters.
He found a kindred spirit in Todd Barber, the principal at Forestgreen Design + Build, who would draft the plans for the home. Barber, a residential designer with a background in horticulture, wasn’t one to raze natural beauty to make way for man-made charm.
Todd was keen on the project, Frank recalls. But three towering oaks in the centre of the swath and municipal setback rules caused him sleepless nights until one insomnia-fuelled flash of insight provided clarity. Todd would design the home around the triumvirate of oaks by creating a Z-shaped footprint with the trees tucked into the zigs and zags. The result is a home that, 14 years later, has aged flawlessly like the trio of muses that inspired it.
“I wanted someone who respected the grounds,” says Frank. “I didn’t want someone who was just all about the house.”
The design process, which involved now-retired interior designer John Kazmir of Studio 76 Interior Designs Inc., would take two years, ensuring the Serravalles could mull every idea and love the results. The entire focus was to bring the outdoors in and defer to nature in the home’s construction.
That meant a structure of clean lines composed of steel and concrete to allow for massive openings that incorporate glass, supplied by Welland Glass & Entrances, into walls rather than use regular windows with their view-obstructing muntins and mullions.
white
ABOVE: A glass-framed breezeway ushers guests into the heart of the home.
RIGHT: Windows were added at varying heights throughout to bring light and nature in. OPPOSITE: The contemporary kitchen was ahead of its time. Custom walk around cabinetry, hardware-free glossy cupboards and
quartz countertops reflect the natural light.
“THE HOUSE IS ART. IT’S GIVEN US A LOT OF JOY.”
“It was less is more. We wanted those simplified lines,” Vanessa says. “The house is art. It’s given us a lot of joy.”
It also meant incorporating native materials, including stone blocks, and using an exterior colour scheme that mimicked the natural elements surrounding the home. Stucco where glass and stone end was painted to match the bark on surrounding trees; exposed steel posts were painted deep red to add warmth and tone down the material’s industrial vibe.
A mammoth glass door from Canadian Door Doctor provides access from the kitchen to a covered outdoor seating area shaded by two majestic oaks. The roof by D.F. Brown Roofing was kept flat to avoid competing with the surrounding treeline.
Even the pool, a modern 40- by 15-foot lap version, is abutted by a wall of oversize natural stone-like blocks from St. Catharines Building Supplies. It serves as a fireplace surround and facade for change rooms and maintenance closets tucked in behind.
“We wanted (our home) to feel like a treehouse,” Frank explains. “We wanted it to feel like it had always been here.”
Walking through the front door from Bauhaus, the breezeway that shrouds the third oak ushers you into a gleaming kitchen by Artcraft Kitchens with glossy white cupboards and counters topped with Cambria quartz. Stainless-steel appliances from Nickerson Appliances add to the sparkle. A window backsplash overlooking the outdoor seating area spills natural light onto the culinary task at hand. Continued on page 46
window backsplash and floor-to-ceiling glass walls provide views of the numerous outdoor seating and entertaining areas.
TOP: Stucco was painted to match the bark on surrounding trees. Exposed steel posts were painted deep red to tone down the industrial vibe. ABOVE: Residential designer Todd Barber isn't one to raze natural beauty to make way for man-made charm so he chose a a flat roof to avoid competing with the surrounding treeline. OPPOSITE: A
The kitchen looks onto a large dining area and great room, whose focal point is an inviting caramel leather sectional sofa. A fireplace and dark surround with dramatic veining match the sofa. A living wall adjacent to that holds its own against a backdrop of dark charcoal paint. The feature is highlighted by subtle pot lights controlled by a Crestron Home automation system installed by Dell Smart Home Solutions
Like the brains of the home, Crestron integrates all the mechanical systems, including lighting, HVAC, window shades by Girgenti and audio. It allows control from anywhere in the home – and world – via app or discreet tablet wall panel.
Come bedtime, one button at the primary suite bedside controls all lights, TVs, audio and fireplaces, closes garage doors and activates security. Other single-touch commands can turn everything on to pre-set levels for specific tasks, such as cooking or entertaining.
“It streamlines everything,” says Christine Dell, co-owner of Dell Smart Home Solutions with husband, Jason. “In contemporary homes with a lot of glass and millwork, it takes away the need for all these light switches that we call wall clutter.”
Off the great room is the bedroom wing. Industrial windows with narrow mullions were installed at eye level to create a picture effect and enable each room’s look to change with the seasons.
Continued on page 48
TOP: Natural materials, tiles, finishes and colour palettes were chosen throughout the interior. ABOVE: The pièce de résistance is a stand-alone garage built to accommodate Frank’s car collection, which was designed to match the home. RIGHT: The home office, tucked away in the bedroom wing, is flanked in glass.
The lower level of the home is where the couple’s teenage daughters relax most, especially in summer. It’s close to the pool, and offers a direct line of sight for the parents. The main area houses a grand piano for Frank, a musician by hobby, and a second kitchen to keep provisions close at hand.
A nod to Frank’s Italian heritage is tucked away nearby: a cosy wine cellar and salumeria for curing meat. Frank had the smooth concrete foundation bushwhacked to add an old-world feel to the space complemented by wood panel ceilings and warm lighting.
The couple joke the pièce de résistance is a large standalone garage, designed by Todd Barber years later to match the home – built to accommodate Frank’s car collection. Since the pandemic, it’s become a gathering place, with heated floors, recliners and large-screen TV, a second piano and kitchenette. It makes entertaining larger crowds a cinch and contains the clean-up.
“I was cursing him the whole time [we were building it] and now I’m like, ‘I love you,’ ” Vanessa says, with a laugh.
Years on, the family continues to love everything about their home, inside and out.
“It’s about nature,” Frank says. “It’s all about the outdoors.” OH
TOP LEFT: The open-concept lower level makes hosting pool parties a breeze, with an additional living area, kitchen and dining space only steps away from the pool. TOP RIGHT: The brains of the home – the Crestron Home automation system installed by Dell Smart Home Solutions – integrates all mechanical systems.
A cladded iron wall frames the entrance to the wine cellar and salumeria.
STORY TERESA MATAMOROS
Let It Be!
ECO-FRIENDLY PRACTICES FOR FALL GARDEN CLEAN-UPS
Gone are the days when, after a fall garden clean-up, there wasn’t a stick of anything left. All leaves were blown out, raked up and put at the curb, leaving the garden as clean as a sterile vacant lot. For some of us, this is how it was done way back when, but that was a long time ago.
Now, the most difficult thing is to change the mindset. Leave the garden messy, as people may say. Leave the Echinacea and Rudbeckia up so their seeds are a food source in the winter for birds. Leave hydrangeas up because they look so pretty with snow on their dried flowers. There are lots of other perennials that have great form in the winter garden too. Not only does it make for a more interesting winter landscape, but you are doing a wonderful thing for the soil in your garden.
Leaving the leaves to overwinter in your beds is one of the best gifts you can give to your garden. The fallen leaves provide a natural mulch, helping to moderate soil temperature and keep in moisture. When the leaves break down, they add back to the soil the very nutrients your trees, shrubs or perennials took out and they play an important role in maintaining a healthy soil food web. Beneficial microorganisms like bacteria, fungi and nematodes release nutrients, making them available for plants.
The leaves also provide a habitat for beneficial insects. Spiders and ladybird beetles will have a place to overwinter. Praying mantises lay their eggs on plant stems, and garden beetles eat everything from snail eggs to caterpillars, just to name a few.
What To Cut
Some perennials such as hostas or peonies can be cut back as they tend to go to mush after a good hard frost. Any plant that is diseased should be removed from the garden and put in the garbage, not composted.
Generally speaking, leaving plant stems up adds protection against recent wild weather swings. The stems are more likely to catch the snow, and create a blanket of protection. As we know, the snow is a great insulator and when we cut everything down in the garden, there is nothing left to catch and keep the snow in place. When the soil is bare, the roots of all plants can be subject to frost heaving. It’s when we don’t have a good snow cover that we see a lot of winter kill in the spring.
While you don’t want a heavy blanket of anything on the grass for the winter, leaves on the lawn can be mowed over so they are mulched and left to enrich the lawn if there aren’t too many. You could always use the mower to mulch the excess leaves and shoot them into the garden!
Clean Your Tools
Eco-friendly practices for fall clean-ups also include taking good care of your tools before you put them away for the winter. Make sure all rakes, hoes, spades and shovels are cleaned and oiled. Better quality secateurs can be taken apart and cleaned, oiled and sharpened. Your tools will last a good long time when they are well cared for.
Less is more in terms of fall clean-ups. You do less work, use less fossil fuel and resources, reduce your carbon footprint and improve the biodiversity, all while making your garden healthier and more beautiful at the same time!
Follow Mother Nature’s lead and we’ll all be better off! OH
PHOTO: LIANE M
PHOTO: BG WALKER
fabulous IN FONTHILL
Forest Park is a vibrant new residential community nestled in the historic town of Fonthill. Just down the street from the awardwinning Willow Ridge community and only a short drive from St. Catharines and Welland, the picturesque Niagara area celebrates country living with sensational views, an abundance of modern charm and unlimited recreation – all within walking distance of downtown Fonthill and its major amenities.
Continued on page 56
TOP: Each home in Forest Park has unique exterior features, distinguishing each abode from its neighbour. A committed walkable community, many of the lots back onto environmentally-protected woodlands. RIGHT: Every house is built using maintenance-free materials and triple-glazed vinyl windows for energy efficiency. OPPOSITE: Floor plans range from 1,461 to 3,623 sq. ft. and can be personalized to suit individual tastes and lifestyles.
home & builder
P“PHASE ONE launched in April,” says Danielle Rinaldi, marketing and business development manager with Rinaldi Homes “It is a limited release of only 16 detached homes and 24 freehold townhomes.” Since 1955, Rinaldi Homes has been designing and building residential communities with a mix of townhomes, bungalows and two-storey homes, all of which boast outstanding floor plans, unique architectural touches, quality construction and high-end finishes. “The provincial push for dense builds and highrises means large lots and bungalows are becoming difficult to find,” says Danielle. As a committed walkable community, many of Forest Park’s 65, 55 and 45-foot lots back onto environmentally-protected woodlands, providing a private yet scenic backdrop for walking and cycling paths, community parks, schools and outdoor spaces.
Whether you prefer to dine with friends and family at local restaurants and cafes or gather neighbours for backyard barbecues and cocktails, you’ll find no shortage of things to do within walking distance. There are nearby trails available for idyllic walks and bird watching, a plethora of events held at the Meridian Community Centre up the street and award-winning golf courses nearby.
With several architectural designs to choose from – a blend of modern and traditional styles – the neighbourhood isn’t cookie-cutter. All Rinaldi homes, even those built from the same model, are unique.
“We offer our homeowners a ton of customization options,” says Danielle. “Much more than just moving walls or picking flooring.” Every house is built using maintenance-free materials such as solid clay brick, stucco, aluminum siding and natural stone. Triple-glazed vinyl windows meet top energy efficiencies and create a sound barrier. Relax on columned front porches with steelroof accents or enjoy the outdoors under fully covered rear decks with aluminum railings and tempered glass panels for unobstructed views. Stunning entryway doors with multipoint locking systems are provided by Pollard Windows & Doors and garage doors by Yarnell Overhead Door Ltd. ensure years of reliability. Properties are professionally sodded and landscaped by DeKorte’s Landscaping, making the homes move-in ready upon completion.
ABOVE: Floor-to-ceiling cabinetry, vanities and built-ins are customizable and give homeowners plenty of storage.
RIGHT: Granite and quartz countertops are available in a variety of colours and styles for the laundry room, bathrooms and kitchens. OPPOSITE: The blended kitchen, dining and living space is designed to be open, bright and airy.
we design so homeowners can choose structural options for the future, like a finished basement clear of bulkheads or weight-bearing posts in ideal locations.”
home & builder
With floor plans ranging from 1,461 to 3,623 sq. ft. with two- to five-bedroom options available, every home can be personalized to suit individual tastes and lifestyles. The main floor’s nine-foot ceilings and eight-foot interior doors complement the open-concept layout, designed with socializing in mind. “We design so homeowners can choose structural options for the future, like a finished basement clear of bulkheads or weight-bearing posts in ideal locations.”
All Forest Park bungalows and some two-storey homes are designed with cathedral ceilings in the great room and smooth ceilings throughout. Engineered
hardwood flooring, tiling or carpeting from Aristocrat Floors flow throughout, and the uniquely-designed stairways and railings are done by Amber Stairs & Railings Inc. All models showcase an abundance of windows to flood rooms in natural light and Don’s Light House supplies unique light fixtures – with all electrical installation by Mike Poortinga of H Electric Inc.
“Homeowners love the bright, airy feel of the blended kitchen, dining and living spaces,” says Danielle. The open-concept setting is great for gathering loved ones on holidays or hosting celebrations. Floor-to-ceiling cabinetry, vanities and built-ins, designed and installed
by Artcraft Kitchens, give homeowners plenty of storage and come in a vast range of choices in layout, style and colour. Stunning stone backsplashes were provided by Aristocrat and granite and quartz countertops for the laundry rooms, bathrooms and kitchens are from Kirkstone Homeowners can choose from a large range of modern, soft-close hardware to imbue every room with unique touches. Bathrooms offer frameless glass showers and freestanding tubs that create spa-like settings, and, for those who covet their closet space, Closets, Shutters & More design and install closet shelving for ample storage.
Continued on page 60
BELOW: Gas fireplaces with customizable colour flames from One Stop Fireplace Shop create ambience and provide warmth on the main and lower floors. OPPOSITE: Frameless glass showers and freestanding tubs elevate the bathrooms.
Gas fireplaces from One Stop Fireplace Shop create ambience and provide winter warmth. Plumbtech Services Ltd. installs kitchen and bathroom plumbing and all heating and cooling systems, while The Ensuite Bath & Kitchen Showroom supplies the fixtures. Homeowners can also choose to finish the lower level to make full use of available space – an ideal area for a rec room or home gym.
“We are very proud to introduce our newest community, Forest Park, to those looking to call Fonthill home,” says Danielle. Rinaldi has built over 1,200 homes throughout Niagara and are proud of the vibrant communities they have created within the lush region. The Rinaldi team of dedicated trade experts – including third-generation Rinaldi family members – know what it takes to build exceptional homes. They’ve won numerous home design and build awards over the years and were recently nominated for four national and provincial awards. Most of all, the team at Rinaldi knows communities are made up of individuals, families and neighbours who come together to share their lives and experiences. OH
ABOVE: Bulkhead-free lower levels offer ample space for rec rooms, home offices and gyms.
BELOW: Floor plans accommodate two- to five-bedroom desires, with optional walk-in closets and en suite additions.
cooking at home
HALLOWEEN Cookies SPOOKY
INGREDIENTS
(Makes 12 cookies)
1 batch (12) of double chocolate chip cookies (you can use store bought cookies, ready-to-bake cookie dough, or make your favourite recipe)
¾ cup icing sugar
5 Tbsp water 12 marshmallows
Black writing icing
DIRECTIONS
Prepare the icing by mixing icing sugar and 5 tablespoons of water. Dip the bottom of the marshmallow into the icing and place on top of a cookie.
Spoon the icing on top of the marshmallow, letting it drip down the sides. Let icing dry until hardened.
Use black writing icing to draw eyes and a mouth. OH
SIGNATURE STYLE
THE PLACE
Nothing elevates a home like the eye of a talented designer. For more than a decade, Phase 2 Design Inc. has transformed homes and businesses with a keen eye and timeless aesthetic. This woman owned-and-operated interior design studio in Oakville is known for its Hotel Living signature style; designing captivating yet functional spaces that enhance the lives of the people who live there. Whether you desire a full luxurious home, a modern and efficient office space or an upscale establishment, owners Daniya Shah and Rana Saleh, along with their highly skilled and creative team, bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to every project they complete.
PRACTICAL PRICING
Phase 2 Design Inc. adopted a transparent approach to pricing with their Price Per Room format. “We don't charge by square footage because we deal with different size homes,” says Daniya. “We ask ourselves, ‘how can we help our client achieve what they are asking while remaining on budget?’ No matter the size, the work is still the same, we are still designing four walls.” Multiple packages are available to suit each client. The Builders Package focuses on the prime areas of a home that increase resale value and are most important to making a sale. Subsequent packages focus on designing the interior as a whole. “We take each corner of a room and design it,” says Daniya. “We don’t leave any corner empty or unthought of.”
PHOTOS LARRY ARNAL
PHOTO: JASON HARTOG
Rana Saleh and Daniya Shah
ONE-STOP SHOP
An exceptional repertoire of connections has been cultivated with tradespeople, builders and architects in the industry, ensuring each project runs seamlessly.
“We are a one-stop shop,” says Daniya. “We take the stress away from our clients. We provide architectural drawings, we do the interior design, we have credible suppliers, we know a lot of builders and we execute all project management so that we know the job will be done right and on time.”
EXPERTS IN COLLABORATION
Phase 2 Design Inc. pays meticulous attention to every corner of a room – integrating their clients’ vision with their own, then utilizing these ideas to design cohesive and visually-striking environments. “We challenge ourselves when we are designing,” says Rana. “We ask, ‘how can we make this different, how can we make this work,’ while creating something that is not typical or that anyone can make.”
“Our designs strive to be everlasting and timeless,” says Daniya. “Each design is personalized, collaborative and intimate. This is our focus from day one and how we build a perfect interior design. This is one of the reasons why our clients come back.” OH
The POWER of COLOUR
Colour is a wonderful thing, and it’s a common bond between people, despite the sheer volume and preferences. Scientists estimate that the average person can distinguish more than one million colours, and despite the many varieties, most of us are able to narrow down our favourites to a select few. That’s incredible.
What’s behind our attraction to certain colours, and dislike of others? We can circle back to science on this one. Colours have been shown to elicit emotional responses, with different hues and shades triggering a variety of moods and even physical reactions. Talk about power!
Colour holds a special place in my heart as a designer, yet when faced with making decisions, many of my clients get lost in the whirlwind of paint chips and fabric swatches. I advise them to take a step back and consider colour from a base perspective. Then, go from there.
COLOUR BASICS
If you’re hesitant to dive into a pool of vibrant hues, don’t worry – you don’t have to. Most colour palettes are built on a simple formula of three: a dominant colour, a secondary colour and an accent colour. Overcomplicating your space with too much colour can create visual chaos. Generally speaking, working with a threecolour plan is a manageable starting point for most people. Find your inspiration and allow it to steer your colour choices. If you’re drawn to nature, let yourself travel the path of forestor ocean-inspired hues. Of course, there are countless other sources of inspiration – art, culture, even food. What colours stand out to you?
STORY AMAN THAN PHOTOGRAPHY MIKE CHAJECKI
design ideas
APPLICATION OF COLOUR
Now that you have your trio of colours, apply the 60-30-10 rule to your space. This approach to decorating holds that the dominant colour should occupy roughly 60 per cent of the visual area of your space, like walls and flooring. This selection is often a neutral colour, but it doesn’t have to be. The secondary colour accounts for 30 per cent of the space, taking its place on mid-size elements such as sofas, armchairs and accent walls. Finally, the accent colour takes the remaining 10 per cent and, in many of my designs, is a bold choice that becomes a focal point, often through artwork and accessories.
Remember that the secret to a well-designed space is balancing, and this includes your colour proportions. Factor all you see into your interior palette: walls, ceilings, trims, floorings, furnishings, window treatments, artwork and accessories. The goal is for consistent colour distribution across all these elements.
HAVE FUN!
Colour can’t be taken too seriously. At the same time, it can be a commitment, depending on the chosen colour and its application. For example, a small feature wall can be changed relatively easily and at a low cost, but it’s a different story when you’ve painted all the walls in your open-concept, double-height living area in a tone that didn’t quite hit the right note. Also consider that trends come and go, and your tastes will likely change. But there’s a simple solution for that: go neutral for your dominant colour and give it life with a bold or trending hue.
Many of my designs lean into a classic cream or black-and-white palette, with a pop of sunny yellow art and accent furniture, or a daring, coral-coloured door. The mainstays –that is, large-scale and expensive items such as flooring, built-in elements and furniture – retain their versatility and longevity, made possible through their neutrality.
Colour doesn’t have to be intimidating. Understanding colour and how to use it goes a long way to harnessing its power, and in leveraging it to transform your space and your mood. OH
Rockstella Stonery Inc. specializes in custom fabrication and installation of stone projects such as kitchen countertops, vanity tops, tub surrounds, fireplaces, reception desks, wall claddings and more. We have an excellent reputation in Hamilton, Niagara and surrounding areas for our exceptional customer service and rapid delivery of premium quality stone products at affordable prices.
BBuilder Shane Van Barneveld of Team Shane found himself in a sticky situation two years ago when clients, who had commissioned a duplex, suddenly had their circumstances change.
“The couple intended to build the two-unit property with their son,” Shane recalls. “Many months into the process, their son could no longer move to Hamilton, and the couple were left in the lurch. Well, I really liked what we were designing, and wanted a property where we could showcase the best of what we could offer as builders.”
So, Shane bought the unit and developed a luxurious, modern smart home in one of Hamilton’s most up-and-coming neighbourhoods, just off Locke Street.
The grey exterior is simple and sleek with large windows. The grey brick is different from your standard brick, utilizing individual bricks that are longer and thinner, creating a more modern facade. Black window frames, metal and porch roofs offset the grey for a dramatic effect. Large concrete landscaping tiles are inset in the front lawn and create a walkway to match the grey exterior. The roof by Artisan Metal Roofing can withstand extended exposure to Canada’s harsh weather conditions. Rain quickly drains to reduce risk of moisture or water damage. Metal roofs can also provide premium protection from strong winds and hailstorms that often cause damage to traditional asphalt roof shingles.
“I wanted the exterior of the house to feel unique to the unit on the other side,” Shane says. “We made the other unit five feet taller and placed the floors at different levels so it didn’t just feel like a mirror image of the home next door.”
CHANGE OF PLANS
STORY DENISE O’CONNELL PHOTOGRAPHY JASON HARTOG
A number of lighting styles and fixtures were used throughout the main floor to differentiate each space.
OPPOSITE: Shane Van Barneveld, builder and owner of Team Shane.
Walking in through the fibreglass door by Custom Window Designs, the clean, white open-concept first floor leaves an impression of the home’s aesthetic. A feature slat wall sits to the right and wide plank engineered oak flooring, matte and soft underfoot, is carried throughout the home.
Directly in front is one of Shane’s favourite features of the home: the floating staircase, encased with frameless glass railings by Lennox Stairs and Wood Floors. Instead of double stringers, Shane went with a single stringer down the middle of the staircase, creating a monorail effect. Inset LED lighting is functional but also striking.
Immediately to the left sits the living space. When Shane was designing, he knew he wanted a fireplace to make the space cosy, but he also wanted room for his family to enjoy a big screen TV. Often, designers will stack one on top of the other, compromising space for both. But Shane decided to buck the trend and provide most of the wall for the flush TV, while setting the fireplace by Chadwicks & Hacks off to the side in a beautiful marble floor-to-ceiling surround by Sarana Tile There was just enough space on the wall for inset built-in shelving.
Continued on page 74
ABOVE: The mono-stringer floating staircase was encased in glass to eliminate visual barriers. LEFT: Inset LED lighting was used to draw the eye in multiple areas, including the wine wall, staircase and underneath the cabinetry.
OPPOSITE, TOP LEFT: The modern smart home is located in one of Hamilton's most desired neighbourhoods, steps from bustling Locke Street. TOP RIGHT: A slat wall complements the fibreglass front door by Custom Window Designs. BOTTOM: Clean white walls blend with the floor-to-ceiling marble fireplace surround.
As the open-concept continues, a dining room distinguishes itself with a wine wall. The wine wall is not just a big wine rack. This is one of the prominent features of the home, with LED lighting that creates the focal point for the first floor.
“The idea for the wine wall came when we knew we needed a good solution to hide HVAC duct work,” says Shane. “I always wanted a wine wall, and this was a perfect opportunity.”
The minimalist kitchen features flat-front, pull-free white cabinetry by The Wright Kitchen. The only exception? The built-in fridge from Coast Appliances. Granite countertops from Custom Granite draw the eye. To create interest, a 20-foot island in black was designed with two levels: a counter-height level for working, and a table-height level for eating and entertaining. Shane also preferred track lighting
around the kitchen to typical pendants hanging over the island. This provides ample light, differentiates the space in the whole openconcept area, and continues the simplicity.
Upstairs in the primary bedroom, a forest green wood-panelled feature wall gives dramatic flair to the room.
“Because I’m a builder, I tend to think of creating spaces that speak for themselves,” Shane relays. “I want the room itself to be the focus, rather than the furniture or décor.”
The en suite is elegant with white marble tile and grey veining throughout, by Sarana Tile. A double-sink vanity in black and gold by Kubebath sits across from an expansive shower. Plumbing and fixtures throughout were supplied by The Ensuite Bath & Kitchen Showroom Continued on page 76
A forest green wood-panelled feature wall is the focal point of the primary bedroom. LEFT: The bright palette continues in the en suite with white marble tile with grey veining used throughout. BELOW LEFT: Glass surrounds the elegant walk-in shower.
home & builder
Through the tri-panelled patio door, also by Custom Window Designs, the backyard is a serene oasis, with a small veranda featuring floating and illuminated concrete steps, and a simple large-slab tile patio area, all by Rock Crest Landscapes. A walkway leads to the external garage and garden beds with slender silhouette sweetgums lining the horizontally-oriented fence.
When Shane built the home, he planned for a stand-alone basement unit that he could rent. However, the basement turned out so well that one of his children has moved in and taken it over. Shane wanted the unit to feel completely different from the rest of the home, as it was its own separate space. So, Shane chose to make the space more vibrant and eclectic, but still as luxurious. To reduce any damage from moisture, Shane opted for luxury vinyl tile that is perfect for a basement, as it withstands any moisture damage. The basement was also given a separate walk-out entrance for future incomeproperty potential.
The home has become a functional living space for the family, but also quite a showpiece for what Team Shane can accomplish. “As a design/build company, we work directly with our in-house designers and coordinators to create beautiful homes that have premium finishes and functional interior design,” Shane says. “It really was teamwork that made the creation of this home seamless and successful.” OH
ABOVE: The basement was designed as a future income property, equipped with all amenities and separate walk-out entrance. RIGHT: High ceilings in the bedrooms allow for more natural light.
MIXING METALS in your home
Mixing metals in your home is an artful way to add depth and sophistication to any space. To achieve a harmonious look, start by choosing a dominant metal. This primary metal will set the tone for your design and should be used with the majority of your fixtures and fittings. Apply the 60-30-10 decorating rule to the metals as a guide – 60 per cent of your home in the dominant metal, 30 per cent with the secondary metal and 10 per cent with an accent metal.
Secondary metals should complement your dominant choice without overwhelming it. For instance, if your primary metal is brushed nickel, you might introduce copper or matte black accents to add dimension. Balancing the placement of metals is key to achieving a cohesive look. Spread the different metals evenly throughout the room rather than clustering them in one area. This approach ensures that your design feels intentional and well thought out. Excessive metal mixing can make a space look chaotic and cluttered. A good rule to remember is to mix one to two metals in small rooms and no more than two to three
metals in larger rooms. In a small powder room, for example, sticking to no more than two metals helps maintain a cohesive look. Considering the finish of your metals is also very important. Combining various finishes like polished, brushed or matte can add texture and richness to your design. Ensure there is a common element tying them together, whether it’s the colour tone or the style of the pieces. When in doubt, remember that matte black and grey iron are considered neutral metal colours that go with just about any other metal.
STORY BRIANNE SMITH
KOHLER: Occasion Bath & Light Fixtures in Matte Black with Moderne Brass. Essential 20” x 40” capsule framed mirror in Moderne Brushed Gold
SOME OTHER STYLISH COMBINATIONS INCLUDE:
CHROME + BRASS
BLACK + POLISHED NICKEL + ANTIQUE BRASS
VISUAL COMFORT: Allen Double Light Sconce in Natural Brass
POLISHED NICKEL + SATIN BRASS
STAINLESS STEEL + GOLD
Be sure to maintain a consistent theme throughout your space by making sure the metals you choose align with your overall design vision. With careful selection and thoughtful placement, mixing metals can transform your home into a stylish and inviting haven loaded with personality and flair. OH
KOHLER: Edalyn by Studio MacGee Pull-Down Kitchen Faucet
VISUAL COMFORT: Clemente Double Sconce in Hand-Rubbed Antique Brass with Black Shade
HOUSE OF ROHL: Modelle Shower Trim Kit & Widespread Bathroom Faucet in Polished Chrome
MADE GOODS: Gage Mirror in Antique Brass
RENWIL: Livia Coffee Table
BERTAZZONI: Heritage Series Range with Gold Collezione Metalli Décor Set
RENWIL: Romina Nickel Side Table
BRIZO: Rook Wall Mount Pot Filler in Brilliance Polished Gold
HIGHLY SKILLED
Put your to-do list in the hands of professionals this season!
PHOTOGRAPHY JASON HARTOG
NEW LOCATION
The Furniture Gallery invites you to visit their new location to experience their one-of-a-kind blend of traditional, quality and modern furniture and home décor styles that have made them a premier choice for furniture and home accessories throughout the Niagara region. Though their location is new, their practices, quality and helpful staff are the same. Staff takes great pride in serving both new and repeat customers – especially the next generation of long-time clients who have come to trust and rely on the pristine brand.
THE FURNITURE GALLERY
The Furniture Gallery’s showroom is a treasure trove of unique styles and the latest in trending home décor. Located in St. Catharines, their business is not only based on offering quality merchandise, but they are also known for their surprising affordability. Their strength lies in achieving the perfect balance between quality and price – a principle that has helped The Furniture Gallery build and maintain a loyal clientele for almost 50 years.
STAY TUNED
The Furniture Gallery has always been a leader in the furniture realm, bringing Niagara the latest trends season after season. The new showroom on Neilson Avenue in St. Catharines is bright, fresh and currently expanding to soon be 10,000 square feet.
Josie Tropea, Hannah Siemens, Kim Melvin, Karen Bedard & Frank DiPalma
ARBORWOOD TREE SERVICE
At Arborwood Tree Service, our great reputation is built on professionalism and client satisfaction. Your trees are living resources and our certified arborists have the expertise to help you steward your property with beautiful, healthy trees and shrubs, for now and for the future. Maintaining the vitality of your trees is our mission, doing it with safety, integrity and professionalism is our promise. The Arborwood team is passionate about tree care. If we aren’t up in one or safely taking one down, we’re learning more about them and sharing our knowledge within the industry.
TOP TIPS
As an arborist, pruning is the most frequent task we conduct. Each pruning cut determines the future of the tree. Each tree requires different pruning applications. As urban arborists, we are constantly balancing both the tree’s needs as well as our clients. We can educate you on why we prune, common pruning practices and the best times to prune.
“Providing the best tree care service possible for over 25 years.”
UNIQUE SERVICES
Pruning, cabling, trimming, hazard assessments, tree preservation plans, arborist reports, tree feeding, tree spraying, tree removal and stump grinding are all unique services that we offer. Arborganix is our own holistic and natural plant health-care product to treat the roots of a problem. We also have the new ARBOTOM to do sonic tomography on trees to detect decay and rot in the stems.
PHOTO: CHAN KHAMPHOOMEE
Andrew Hordyk
PHOTO: JEREMY JAMES PHOTOGRAPHY
OUR SPECIALITY
We use time-tested acrylic panels in a blend of aluminum framing and Douglas fir timbers. These panels are a delight to relax under, as they block heat and UV rays, while letting soft-filtered light into your new space. Each roof system is custom built locally to suit your requirements and is fabricated off-site for a fast installation with minimal on-site noise and debris impact.
BACKYARD NECESSITIES
VanAm's team believes every outdoor space needs a comfortable place to relax in without the harmful effects of the sun – a well-lit and cool space to rest while spending time with family and friends.
VANAM OUTDOORS
With a wealth of knowledge in residential, commercial and backyard construction, VanAm Outdoors has provided trustworthy workmanship throughout the Niagara and Hamilton regions. They bring a great range of expertise to each one of their projects, striving to keep customers happy while providing nearly any service that is requested in order to get the job done. They have always felt that if they make their homeowners happy, everything else will fall into place. For that reason, they always provide top-quality workmanship on every project, to maximize customer satisfaction. Our factory-trained staff is also able to deliver decks, fences and privacy walls to complement your setting.
Braden Kasper, Sibrand Stulp & Ed VanderVegte
people & places
INTERIORS BY BETTER SHADE
For 69 years, the family-owned-andoperated Interiors by Better Shade has been well known for its quality window coverings, manufactured on-site in Niagara. Over the past decade, the furniture side of the business has grown immensely. Today they offer full interior design services, making Interiors by Better Shade a true one-stop shop for all home and business interior needs.
NEW IN-STORE
Top-down bottom-up cordless cellular shades and operable Roman shades with cordless or motorized options are now available in-store. New in the furniture department are accent and swivel chairs in gorgeous rich colours for getting cosy this fall. Custom artwork and rugs are also showcased prominently throughout the showroom.
TOP TIPS FROM THE DESIGN TEAM
The easiest way to refresh your home from season to season is to add layers and textures during the colder months. Consider adding drapery or side panels to your pared back window coverings and bring in heavier fabrics for pillows and throw blankets. Layering lighting can also help transition your home into darker months without adding clutter.
Dorothy Hallett, Dave Cecchi, Melissa Rey, Scott Somerville, Jordan Cecchi, John Fiorino, Elizabeth Barnowski, Inessa Perron
OUTSIDE... YEAR-ROUND
SMA RT PATIO COV ERS
Want to enjoy living “outdoors” this Fall and Winter protected from the elements? HASSLE-FREE
people & places
ORNELLA HOMES
Founded in 2009, Ornella Homes was created with the goal of designing and producing beautiful spaces – both indoors and extending to the outdoors. As a design-focused builder, the team understands the importance in creating a place you can call home. With roots in interior and landscape design, Ornella Homes has grown to add project management to its resume, both on the construction and renovation side of homes across the GTA.
HANDS-ON TEAM
The key element of our business is in the integrated design process we use to ensure complete project management. We are involved every step of the way, from the architectural design to the material sourcing. We help homeowners oversee a number of architects, designers and skilled tradespeople who take pride in their craft, stand behind their work and appreciate the fundamentals of extraordinary design. This hands-on approach gives our team a lot of range in our capability to deliver a very high-quality product, quickly and efficiently.
AHEAD OF THE TRENDS
We are constantly educating ourselves on the latest products and techniques for building. Often when a supplier launches a new product, they will contact us to educate us and showcase the new colour or design. We also work very closely with some of the best architects and designers to stay sharp and on trend.
Anton Popov
THE MILLIONAIRE’S DAUGHTER
Friendly Destination for Fabulous Furniture and Decor Finds
• UPGRADE YOUR DECOR
• GREAT FALL FINDS
• UNIQUE ITEMS
• CONSIGNMENT SHOPPING
• AFFORDABLE STYLE
• THREE LOCATIONS
• VISIT TODAY!
people & places
STONEY CREEK FURNITURE
Since 1969, the team at Stoney Creek Furniture has focused on bringing our customers quality furnishings that reflect the latest innovations and styles for comfortable living. Recent renovations to our store allow us to deliver a more streamlined customer experience that reflects the needs of today’s busy families and professionals. Mindful of sustainability, we're not only committed to beautiful furniture, but also to healthier, eco-friendlier options for our customers and the environment.
QUALITY CUSTOMER SERVICE
Friendly advice and service excellence continue to be why generation after generation choose us to furnish their homes. From the moment you walk into our store to when your furniture arrives at your door, you can rely on us to be an expert resource, guiding you to options that are customizable and sized right for your home.
TIMELESS DESIGNS
Quality furnishings are an investment that can beautify your home for years. Well-known for our extensive selection, we offer a variety of styles and timeless designs that are crafted to last. Our new Four Seasons collection features washable slipcovers that can be refreshed to look like new.
Back Row: Sampson Timykoglou, Eric Jansen,
Cassandra Novosel, Daxa Panchal Front Row: Frances Patsiatzis, Scott Purser, Cathy Bozikis
people & places
BOARD BOSS DRYWALL
Founded in 2017 by Steve and Kelly Frechette, Board Boss Drywall has quickly become a trusted name in the drywall industry. Board Boss has successfully completed more than 1,000 projects in both commercial and residential sectors. Our focus is on partnering with general contractors and developers to bring their visions to life, whether it's a new multi-unit residential building, custom home or subdivision. Our skilled team is dedicated to consistently exceeding client expectations and delivering highquality results. Our experienced foremen ensure that everything runs efficiently, guaranteeing timely completion and top-notch quality from start to finish.
PASSIONATE & SKILLED TEAM
Our team of highly-skilled tradespeople bring expertise, dedication and a passion for quality to every project. Our foremen are the best in Niagara. They work synergistically with clients, ensuring smooth and efficient operations. This collaborative approach is what sets Board Boss Drywall apart. Specializing in multi-unit developments and custom homes, we pride ourselves on our extensive knowledge of the industry and our proficiency in job site management. From framing to drywall installation and finishing to acoustical ceilings, we offer a comprehensive range of drywall services.
ONE STEP AHEAD
Tools and equipment are constantly evolving, and we strive to be as efficient, safe and competitive as possible. By investing in the latest technology and training, we ensure our team is always prepared to deliver top-quality results. We are committed to sustainability and always seek out more ways to reduce our environmental impact. OH
SEE OUR DIRECTORY FOR ALL CONTACT INFORMATION.
Howard Dorn, Justin Morley, Steve Frechette, Kelly Frechette, Jordan Brown, Dean Beaudoin & Peter Katadotis
Reflecting on the topic of BIRD-FRIENDLY WINDOWS
Every year millions of migratory birds die in collisions with windows, representing one of the leading causes of death among migrating avian species.
Birds can’t see glass. Instead, they see whatever happens to be reflected in its mirror-like surface. Often, this is open sky or trees – an extension of their environment – so rather than altering course, they keep flying straight ahead, oblivious to the danger until they crash into the window, often with deadly results.
Additionally, birds might be attracted to interior lighting, or even plants, and strike a window while flying toward the light or object.
Flap Canada and the American Bird Conservancy estimate as many as a billion birds die in window collisions across North America annually. The loss of so many birds is a tragedy. Birds play a critical role in ecosystems and economies around the world through pollination, controlling pests, enriching the soil, and other vital functions. Their contribution to the natural order is immense.
Window manufacturers are taking heed and stepping up to address the problem by creating bird-safe window options.
“Bird safe isn't new but continues to gain traction year over year,“ says Adam Mitchell, marketing manager at Collingwood architectural glass manufacturer AGNORA. “Toronto and New York City paved the way with bird-friendly glazing. There’s a fairly wide variety of bird-friendly glass solutions. They differ in cost, size, and visual considerations, but all these products are designed to effectively deter birds.”
Adam says there are, broadly, three main types of core bird-friendly glass available.
1. UV-COATED PATTERNS
These windows have an ultraviolet coating. The coating is invisible to humans, but visible to birds, as they can see into the ultraviolet spectrum. Benefit: The lowest visual impact on the dwelling. Drawback: High cost. Maximum Size: 102 by 144 inches.
2. PRINTED OR LAMINATED DOT PATTERNS/VISUAL PATTERNS
These windows are covered with two-by-two-inch or fourby-four-inch dots or designs, breaking the reflectivity of the glass so birds don’t fly into it. Benefit: A cost-effective option. Drawback: Visible to humans as well as birds. Maximum Size: 130 by 300 inches.
3. ACID ETCH DOT PATTERNS/ VISUAL PATTERNS
Similar to above, except that the dots or patterns are etched into the glass rather than printed or laminated onto the surface. Benefit: Also cost effective. Drawback: Visible to humans. Maximum Size: 96 by 130 inches.
This past spring, Ontario NDP MPP Chris Glover (Spadina-Fort York) announced legislation (The Bird-Safe Windows Act, 2023) that would protect migratory birds by implementing bird-safe measures into Ontario’s building code, noting: “As we continue growing as a province, we need to ensure it is innovative and sustainable – birdsafe building legislation is long overdue in Ontario.”
Currently, all new low-rise residential, mixed-use low-rise, institutional and public buildings in Toronto require birdfriendly glass.
The legislation would extend this mandate province-wide. It would not impact single-family homes; whether a homeowner elects to use bird-friendly windows would remain entirely their choice.
The bill, should it pass, will impact cost of construction on new builds and renovations. How much?
“Depending on the bird-friendly product used or specified, the price can vary. A safe estimate would be 30 to 100 per cent higher than standard glass,” explains Gin Benner, project manager at AGNORA. “However, as an industry, this is actively being worked on to have more affordable offerings for our feathered friends and prices will likely decrease in time.”
But, as Adam points out, there are ways to mitigate costs. “The goal is to ‘break’ the reflectivity of glass in fly-through zones, essentially the areas where birds live and nest,” he explains. “For that reason, the need to employ bird-friendly glazing above a certain height becomes unnecessary.”
In addition, there are tangible benefits to these windows beyond the knowledge that we are preserving biodiversity. Bird-friendly solutions can be combined with high-performance coatings to provide thermal insulation and solar control properties to the glazing, thereby reducing cooling and heating costs.
Bird-friendly windows play a vital role in the preservation of valuable bird species, and by extension the preservation of our threatened ecosystems. As a result, their use is destined to only grow in the years ahead. OH
ADVICE FOR HOMEOWNERS
What can you do?
One would think that most bird collisions are with high-rise buildings, but studies suggest that a great many happen with residential homes and low-rise commercial buildings. So, there is an opportunity for homeowners to play a role in reducing bird mortality.
Even if you are not switching out the windows on your home anytime soon, there are still some steps you can take to ensure that your windows don’t pose a threat to flying birds. These include:
1. Place bird feeders either close (1.5 feet or less) to your windows – it will make birds slow down as they approach – or well away from the home.
2. Keep curtains or shades drawn during the day to reduce reflection.
3. Move houseplants back from your windows, as they may attract birds.
4. Install a screen or net a few inches outside of your windows, to lessen the impact.
FORCE SECURITY: A LEGACY OF PROTECTION
Mark Kaine entered the security industry in 1987. The business has evolved from a one-man operation into a thriving family business, with Mark’s son, Damin, and daughter, Shelby, now managing daily operations. Mark’s personal experience of a break-in at age 14 inspired him to create Force Security after he couldn’t find a suitable alarm system for his own family in 1986.
Today, Force Security provides cutting-edge protection for homes and businesses, offering services like smart home automation and advanced video surveillance. Their systems include environmental sensors that detect smoke, fire, water levels, and furnace failures, ensuring rapid emergency response and allowing remote management via smartphone.
As a ULC S561 certified company, Force Security meets the highest standards for fire monitoring in high-rises, schools, and hospitals. Their advanced video surveillance systems feature ultra-low light sensors, high-definition zoom, and human detection with two-way communication. Recent innovations include modern access control solutions. All systems are integrated, viewable and manageable on smartphones and mobile devices from anywhere in the world.
Force Security’s legacy is built on trust, innovation, and unwavering dedication to protecting what matters most.
844.360.1234 | force.ca
mark@force.ca
(Please see ad on pg 25)
215 DESIGN CO.
At 215 Design Co., led by principal designer Melissa Tofano, the approach to design emphasizes creativity and innovation. The company believes that design is not just about aesthetics but also about solving problems and creating functional, visually appealing solutions. Techniques such as brainstorming, sketching, and prototyping are employed to develop unique ideas tailored to each project.
215 Design Co. also excels in 3D design, using advanced technology to create detailed, lifelike renderings. This allows clients to visualize their projects in a realistic and immersive way, ensuring that every detail is perfect before implementation. The use of 3D design enhances the design process, making it easier to experiment with different concepts and make precise adjustments.
215 Design Co. encourages experimentation and exploration rather than following strict design rules. The team is willing to take risks and try new things, ensuring that their designs are distinctive and original. This fearless approach allows 215 Design Co. to deliver projects that exceed client expectations by meeting their specific needs and desires.
Whether working on residential or commercial projects, 215 Design Co. is dedicated to pushing boundaries and thinking outside the box, resulting in spaces that are both beautiful and functional.
905.928.0056 | 215designco.ca
215designco
(Please see ad on pg 79)
MISSISSAUGA DECKS & TRIM: CRAFTSMANSHIP ROOTED IN TRADITION AND EXCELLENCE
Founded in 2016 by John Morrissey, Mississauga Decks & Trim embodies a passion for woodworking and a commitment to quality that has been honed over decades.
John, a master carpenter from Clonmel, Ireland, brought his deep love for transforming wood into extraordinary creations to Canada, setting a high standard for outdoor living spaces from the beginning. His early work with dense exotic hardwoods like Ice and Jatoba established a tradition of excellence that continues today.
At Mississauga Decks & Trim, we understand that your home is your sanctuary. That’s why we start every project with a personal site visit, ensuring we fully grasp your vision, discuss key factors like design, materials, and city bylaws, and provide transparent pricing and timeframes. Our team of expert carpenters, with over 70 years of combined experience, delivers top-quality workmanship, backed by an industry-leading 10-year warranty.
We pride ourselves on prompt communication, with a 24-hour response policy for any questions during your build. Trust us to create the outdoor space of your dreams, with the integrity and dedication that have earned us a reputation as trusted experts in the Greater Toronto Area.
647.321.1545 | john@ mississaugadecksandtrim.com
@mississauga.decks.and.trim
(Please see ad on pg 47)
NIAGARA WATERSCAPES
If you are looking to transform your backyard into a tranquil oasis, our team at Niagara Waterscapes has the knowledge, experience, and passion to help bring your vision to life.
Inspired daily by the beauty of the Niagara escarpment, we have the pleasure of bringing a piece of that into our clients’ yards. As artists, we have developed our talents to create many beautiful water features in the Niagara area. Whether it is a koi pond, a waterfall or a simple fountainscape, we bring the peace and tranquil sights and sounds of water into your life. Every design and install we do is a one-of-a-kind feature making each project unique to your property. In a city lot or wooded yard, we can bring out the natural beauty of any property!
We see water as the most powerful element in the landscape, as water has many healing qualities and has been proven to create a peaceful environment. Start your journey today to melt the stresses of daily life away!
Check out our portfolio to see what’s possible for your property.
We love our jobs, and it shows!
905.932.6281
niagarawaterscapes.com
(Please see ad on pg 51)
SOURCE IT
LANDART
LandArt is a company built on a foundation of integrity, passion, and a commitment to excellence. Founded over a decade ago by Richard and Christine Wynia, LandArt has grown from a small contracting business into a multiple-awardwinning enterprise, serving the Niagara, Greater Hamilton, and Burlington areas.
At the heart of LandArt is a team of dedicated craftsmen and artists who bring unparalleled creativity and attention to detail to every project. Whether it’s transforming your outdoor space into a breathtaking landscape or executing a home renovation that enhances beauty and functionality, LandArt consistently delivers results that exceed expectations.
Guided by Biblical principles such as honesty and integrity, LandArt prioritizes these values in all business practices. This dedication to ethical standards ensures that every client receives not only exceptional craftsmanship but also a partnership built on trust and mutual respect.
Our client-centric approach means we take the time to understand the unique desires and needs of each individual, building relationships that last a lifetime. We pair this with a passion for creating beautiful and creative designs, transforming entire properties – inside and out – using cutting-edge technology. Our commitment to professionalism shines through in every detail, ensuring results that consistently exceed expectations. 289.439.0018 | landart.net
(Please see ad on pg 37)
EXPLORE INSPIRATION AT BULK INTERIOR’S DESIGN STUDIO AND SHOWROOM
Step into our interior design studio and showroom, a spacious environment filled with creativity and quality. Designed to inspire, our showroom showcases an array of high-end materials and products sourced from trusted trades, offering a firsthand experience of the latest design trends.
Our space is more than a display area – it’s a tactile experience where you can touch, feel and see the finest materials in interior design. From luxurious fabrics to bespoke furnishings, every item is carefully curated to help you envision your ideal space. Our products are selected not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for their exceptional quality and craftsmanship.
We believe in the power of personal interaction with materials, allowing you to appreciate the textures and finishes that will define your project. Our knowledgeable team is here to guide you, ensuring that your choices reflect your style and meet your needs.
Visit us by appointment and discover a place where design dreams come to life. Whether you’re planning a complete makeover or a custom new build, our showroom is the perfect place to find inspiration and explore new possibilities.
905.746.3993
bulkinteriors.com
(Please see ad on pg 49)
MAXIME KITCHENS & BATHS INC.
Since 2009, our family-owned home renovation company has been working with homeowners in the Halton Region to turn their dream homes into reality. We are a company built of caring individuals who put our customers first by placing your design ideas on the forefront of our priority list.
Customer satisfaction is our top priority.
At Maxime Kitchens & Baths Inc., we treat your home like our own. Our personable service truly sets us apart from others in the industry.
We recognize the challenges and concerns you face when renovating key areas of your home. We are here to help you throughout the entire process.
Frank Racco, Owner, is a Woodworker by trade having graduated from Conestoga College. With 20+ years of experience in the kitchen renovation business, Frank has extensive knowledge of the renovation process and will help guide you throughout the project.
Sandra Racco, Owner/ Principal Designer, is an Interior Designer by trade having graduated from Sheridan College. With 10+ years of experience in home renovation and redesign, Sandra will work with you from start to finish to help you re-envision your home.
We look forward to collaborating with you to bring your design dreams to life. Contact us today for a free quote! 416.873.3185
maximekitchens.ca
(Please see ad on pg 35)
DURHAM FURNITURE
Since 1899, Durham Furniture has been manufacturing solid wood bedroom and occasional pieces. A lot has changed in 125 years, but the desire for madein-Canada quality furniture that will last a lifetime has not.
Our greatest asset has always been our people and their commitment to the finest craftsmanship techniques. Mortise and tenon joinery, English dovetail drawer construction, and multi-step finishes. In recent years, we have also added undermount soft close drawer guides to all of our case pieces and provided greater flexibility in finishes and hardware.
When you see a piece of Durham, we want you to see the natural characteristics found in solid wood, and when you touch a piece of Durham, we want you to feel the quality of our design, construction, and finishes.
All of our products are available through a network of retailers in Ontario that can help you find the best Durham bedroom and occasional furniture for your home.
To explore our collections or create your own piece of Durham Furniture using our 3D configuration tool, visit durhamfurniture.com.
Durham is a Silver member of the Sustainable Furniture Council and meets all of the standards set by Health Canada and the Consumer Product Safety Program. durhamfurniture.com
(Please see ad on pg 16)
PHOTOGRAPHY JASON HARTOG
MADE FOR
Home
Placed prominently on Hamilton’s Upper James Street, Designer Furniture Gallery is a destination stop for all furnishing needs. Since opening in 2016, the family-owned-and-operated business has stood by its name, boasting a chic showroom and extensive inventory of designer furniture that highlights quality and customization for every budget.
SHOPPING
Designer Furniture Gallery is an appealing destination for both in-person and online shoppers. Their unique showroom is spacious and airy, designed to feel like you are inside a home. Vignettes flow fluidly from dining room, living room to entryway, each designed for visualization purposes. Their knowledgeable sales team members hold decades of experience, are passionate about their products and well-versed on the customizable options available. “Anything you can imagine for the furniture in your home – we can make those dreams come true,” says manager Gavi Sahota.
ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES
Reputable brands and customization mavens Handstone Crafted For Life, Bermex, Amisco and a number of small fabricators are showcased prominently. “We carry a number of lines where you can customize every aspect, add an extra seat, make the sofa longer or shorter – anything you would like, we can do, to make it fit your home,” says Gavi. For upholstered furnishings, Decor-Rest Furniture – a leader in customization with hundreds of fabric and leather options – is highlighted in store. To help visualization and conception, Gavi says they have hundreds of samples and fabric swatches to peruse, and select brands offer 3D renderings or handcrafted illustrations to help visualize the final design.
BUILT FOR LIFE
The store proudly maintains a partnership with Handstone Crafted For Life, showcasing their one-of-a-kind, high-quality wood dining room, bedroom, office and living room collections. “It is really rare to find a product like Handstone,” says Gavi. “Everything you see is solid wood – inside and out. There are no shortcuts.” Handstone furniture is also fully customizable. Their team even offers to sketch the design once specifications have been presented. “You can design it for yourself and there is no required template to work around,” says Gavi. “It is unique, beautiful and perfect.”
ON AND OFFLINE
“We maintain our showroom to be just like a house,” says Gavi. “We keep a combination of dining and living rooms throughout the store instead of segmenting so you can see how rooms will flow together, really stepping away from a corporate feel, so you can get a feel for how it will really be after purchasing.” As society is in an online buying era, Gavi says their website is designed to give customers access to a vast collection of readyto-buy pieces and accessories. OH
Seham Nagy, Deena Fehir, Reet Chhoker & Gavi Sahota
STORY NICOLE HILTON
READ All About It
HOST AN ENGAGING BOOK CLUB AT HOME THIS SEASON
Book clubs are experiencing a revival! You may have noticed celebrities creating popular online literary communities and now independent bookstores and even bars are jumping on this trend with in-person events. Hosting a reading group at your house is the perfect way to embrace spending more time indoors during the fall and winter months. Here’s how to make your next book club meeting a real page-turner.
SETTING
Create a cosy atmosphere for your guests the moment they arrive. Chances are you’ll be chatting for a couple of hours, so give your furniture a fluff and add some extra pillows and throws for comfort. Lighting candles or igniting your fireplace will provide a relaxing ambience to your space. Cue the soft background music.
Add an element of surprise with a curated collection of thoughtful accessories. An assortment of plush reading socks in a basket at the front door and a bowl filled with extra reading glasses, book lights, magnifiers and bookmarks will help your gathering garner good reviews!
Cultivate the feeling your book club members will get when they experience your unforgettable menu featuring signature beverages and bites. It’s easy to lean toward novel ideas like a Tequila Mockingbird cocktail, but there are plenty of other ways to set the tone using food.
Non-alcoholic options have become increasingly popular. A hot chocolate bar with all the fixings and a side of sweets will complement your comfortable setting. Serving the cocoa in a literary-inspired mug is a cute idea for clubs that meet in the afternoon.
If the storyline of the book you’re discussing features an international destination, opt to serve drinks and snacks from that region. Similarly, if the book is set in a certain time period, search online for recipes that reflect the style from that era. These are interesting ways to highlight themes while encouraging everyone to share their thoughts about the book.
PLOT
Organize the sequence of events ahead of time so your meeting is always entertaining. After socializing for the first 15 minutes, launch into the book’s topics by breaking the ice with a round of trivia about the story. Ask guests to perform a reading of their favourite chapter, try choosing a book by a local author and inviting them to lead your discussion or guide engaging conversations with a list of discussion prompts. Topics don’t always have to be about the selected storyline. You can ask broader questions based on themes to personalize your chat.
Everything you talked about to this point will surely spark some open conversation, which you’ll want to leave time for toward the end of your get-together. Before the meeting concludes, introduce next month’s host and book.
Remember, connection is the most important aspect of a book club. By focusing on shared engagement with cosy décor, thoughtful accessories and themed appetizers, you can foster a welcoming community where everyone feels at home. OH
DAVID YOUNGSON & ASSOCIATES: Fred & Friends Light Reading Bookmarks
DAVID YOUNGSON & ASSOCIATES: Kikkerland, Light Up Magnifier
PEEPERS: Clark in Tortoise Men’s Readers
PEEPERS: To the Max in Blue Quartz, Women’s Readers
POOK: Juicy Jumbos Slipper Socks
PAPER E. CLIPS: Rifle Paper Co. Book Club Mugs
PHOTO: COTTONBRO
Fall arrives early at Urban Cottage, featuring beautiful fall accessories from pumpkins, fall botanicals, pillows, cozy throws and unique décor pieces.
In mid October, Christmas arrives with all its splendour. Urban Cottage completely transforms into a winter wonderland. Shoppers come from near and far to experience all the wonders that the season brings. Offering the best selection of holiday décor and exclusive gift items.
MINEOLA WAS ONCE COTTAGE COUNTRY FOR CITY DWELLERS, WITH ITS MAJESTIC TREE CANOPY, RAMBLING ROADS AND PROXIMITY TO THE LAKE. TODAY, THE AREA BEARS THE HALLMARKS OF A QUAINT COTTAGE AESTHETIC WITH ALL THE CONVENIENCES OF URBAN LIFE.
STORY GINA MAKKAR | PHOTOGRAPHY JASON HARTOG
MODERN IN MINEOLA
home & builder
WHENDavid Cumberland and his family decided to trade their downtown factory loft for suburban life, Mineola fit the bill.
“I love the city and urban life, but with COVID-19 and the subsequent lockdowns and working from home, it became a bit overwhelming,” says David. “We had to rethink time and space and evaluate what was important to us long term.” Frequent travellers, the family wanted to be closer to David’s in-laws while enjoying easy access to the city and the airport. A minimalist at heart, David grew up in a century home and developed an appreciation for old-world charm – but fell in love with condo life, its floor-to-ceiling windows and open concept. He wanted his new home to reflect that minimalist love.
To design their new abode, they called on David Small of David Small Designs, whose distinctive aesthetic combines the simplicity of modern design with the warmth and elegance of traditional architecture. Peter Giampuzzi of Ornella Homes took the concept to reality, managing the interior and exterior construction from start to finish.
“We travelled to Asia and were inspired by the minimalist, natural style of the modern homes there,” says owner David. “They use a lot of stone, bamboo, concrete and natural wood. We also grew accustomed to urban life while living in a refurbished factory loft in the city. There is a natural mix of old- and new-world technologies and we wanted to fuse those two styles into something new.”
The home faces west and boasts plenty of oversize windows by Frank by Ostaco Windows & Doors, strategically positioned to maximize light. In an established neighbourhood, creating an exterior that honours its surroundings was important. “There’s a lot of mature trees on the property, and we wanted the home to blend with that,” says Peter.
ABOVE RIGHT: Modern homes in Asia inspired this home’s palette and materials, utilizing natural wood, concrete and stone that travels from the exterior into the entryway. RIGHT: The exterior was designed to complement the established neighbourhood and honour its surroundings.
Sagiper siding sourced from Portugal pairs seamlessly with Owen Sound limestone installed by Chartwell Masonry for organic curb appeal. David Small says the grounds and the building come together in powerful harmony, with floor-to-ceiling windows that hug the grass and horizontal lines that marry the shape of the modern exterior with its natural landscape. “It’s an unassuming, approachable home that is not overwhelming in the existing neighbourhood,” David Small says.
Inside, an airy, open-concept layout awaits. A variety of ceiling heights delineate the transitions from room to room. “There’s a lot of push and pull from front to back and dynamic execution up and down. When you combine that, the message is dynamic but approachable and unassuming,” says David Small. The result is that each room moves seamlessly to the next, breaking the formality for an open, flowing space consistent with modern design.
TOP: During conception, a contemporary aesthetic was forged with elegant, traditional architectural design. ABOVE: Minimalists at heart, the homeowners favour clean lines, natural light and air flow in each room. LEFT: When building, the family included floor-to-ceiling windows in as many rooms as possible – a design feature they fell in love with while living in a downtown loft.
home & builder
With freeform spaces, David Small says organization is paramount. “When things are organized and aligned properly, it just feels right. There’s a lot of things in this home that are specific choices that hinge on the centring of things that you don’t appreciate at first glance, but when they are done properly, their magic takes over.”
A cantilevered staircase encased in a glass railing by mrail highlights the exposed concrete wall in the two-storey stairwell that Peter says is a feat of engineering that adds drama and texture. Opposite, the exterior stone carries into the entryway, blurring the boundaries of indoors and out.
Behind the beauty and aesthetics, functionality that withstands the test of time is also king. Peter says the spray-foamed structure, aluminum triple-pane windows and heated lower level, driveway and garage were thoughtful additions that add comfort and convenience.
The homeowners spend a great deal of time in the kitchen and great room. Watching Saturday night hockey is a tradition, and they enjoy
LEFT: Designed with entertaining in mind, a glass enclosed wine feature is easily positioned by the kitchen and dining area. ABOVE: White oak ceilings and floors envelop the monochromatic kitchen, adding warmth and continuity throughout, while matching the custom cabinetry. OPPOSITE BOTTOM RIGHT: The mudroom, which includes a dog washing tub and laundry area, bridges the attached garage with the home.
hosting family and friends for barbecues. “With the extra space, we can have a lot more people over, which is great. Entertaining has become much more relaxed and carefree,” says David.
Flat panel white oak cabinetry by Magnum Millwork in the kitchen lends to the clean, monochromatic aesthetic the family desires. Countertops in soft grey Carrara marble with a leather finish provide a pleasing contrast without overwhelming the space. The same white oak wood treatment envelops the ceiling and the floors sourced through HardWood Planet, adding warmth and continuity. “It feels like you are in a forest treehouse when you are standing in the kitchen,” says David. The kitchen flows into the great room where a fireplace from Walltek, complete with a two-storey porcelain slab surround from Spain, is a focal point. “It’s a unique feature that is integrated into the structure of the home,” says Peter. Continued on page 114
“WHEN THINGS ARE ORGANIZED AND ALIGNED PROPERLY, IT JUST FEELS RIGHT. THERE’S A LOT OF THINGS IN THIS HOME THAT ARE SPECIFIC CHOICES THAT HINGE ON THE CENTRING OF THINGS THAT YOU DON’T APPRECIATE AT FIRST GLANCE, BUT WHEN THEY ARE DONE PROPERLY, THEIR MAGIC TAKES OVER.”
The en suite features a dual glass-enclosed walk-in shower and water closet. BELOW: A combo concrete hot tub and pool by Gib-San Pools creates a backdrop for relaxing and entertaining. BELOW RIGHT: Oversize windows by Frank by Ostaco Windows & Doors were strategically positioned to maximize light.
home & builder
The lower-level entertainment area houses a bar, theatre room, gym and walk-in wine cellar. Outdoors, an oasis was designed by Ornella Homes, complete with built-in fireplace, outdoor television, concrete hot tub and pool by Gib-San Pools, all combined to create a backdrop for relaxing and entertaining. New fences create much-needed privacy. Natural flagstone adds texture.
With the home complete, David says putting together the right team was paramount in creating a beautiful result.
“Working with Peter and his team was a pleasure. Getting the landscaping right was a really important component of the project.”
David Small says a home should be a platform for living a good life and this home is a good reflection of this. “You come home and you’re proud of your house,” he says. “You walk in and it feels good, those are powerful connections.” OH
The luxurious lower-level entertainment area houses a waterfall topped bar, theatre room complete with interactive star ceiling, a home gym and walk-in wine cellar.
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.
Royal LePage Real Estate Services, Phinney Real Estate, Brokerage –Loretta Phinney, 15
Sam McDadi Real Estate, 27
RETIREMENT CENTRES & COMMUNITIES/SENIOR CARE
Delmanor, 91
STAIRS/RAILINGS
Kenedy Stairs, 49
TILE
Eden Tile-It, 99
WINDOW TREATMENTS
Budget Blinds, 101 Covers Canada, 77
Halson Decor, 67
Interiors by Better Shade, 22, 23
Oakville Paint & Décor, 8
Smart Shutter Canada, 18
WINDOWS & DOORS
Doorway Inc, 93
Frank by Ostaco Windows & Doors, 115
Pollard Windows & Doors, 52
cooking at home
CRISP ON THE OUTSIDE, CREAMY ON THE INSIDE, THESE FRIED GOAT CHEESE BALLS ARE PERFECT FOR FALL GATHERINGS. SERVE WITH A DRIZZLE OF SPICY HERBED HONEY.
RECIPE AND PHOTOGRAPHY
JENELLE MCCULLOCH
fried GOAT CHEESE BALLS
DIRECTIONS
GOAT CHEESE BALLS
Divide the goat cheese into small, bitesized portions and roll into balls. Place them on a baking sheet and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt and pepper.
Roll each goat cheese ball in flour, then dip in beaten eggs and coat with the breadcrumb mixture. Repeat this twice to ensure they are well coated.
Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F in a deep frying pan or pot.
Fry the goat cheese balls in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per batch. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
HOT HERB HONEY SAUCE
In a small saucepan, combine honey, crushed red pepper flakes, thyme and rosemary.
Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the honey is warm and the herbs are fragrant, about 5 minutes.
INGREDIENTS
GOAT CHEESE BALLS
(Makes 8 1 oz cheese balls)
8 oz goat cheese, chilled
½ cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs, beaten
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste
Vegetable oil, for frying
HOT HERB HONEY SAUCE
½ cup honey
1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
1 tsp fresh thyme leaves, chopped
1 tsp fresh rosemary leaves, chopped
Remove from heat and let the sauce cool slightly before serving.
TO SERVE
Arrange the fried goat cheese balls on a serving platter.
Drizzle the hot herb honey sauce over the top or serve it on the side for dipping. OH
Pull AHEAD
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WOOD FLOORING SPECIALISTS
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S ince 1 9 89 , T h e F loo r Sh o p , no w w it h th r ee locati ons in t h e Gr eate r Toronto Area offers you incredible
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Rarely offered prestigious Ivygate Court estate home backing onto acres of magnificent Credit Valley Conservation mature forest. Stately & impeccable model home style presentation with 2stry Great Room plus rare ground level primary bedroom suite.
In one of Mississauga’s most desirable neighbourhoods. Breathtaking primary
Beautifully refreshed bungalow on stately 90’ frontage by 140’ deep lot on exclusive Second Line in sought after Old Meadowvale Village. + newly finished basement with extra bedroom/office.
