Avenue May 2017

MOVE INTO & GET all of this TODAY:

STUDIO TO THREE-BEDROOM HOMES STARTING FROM $229,900: From the concierge to Grosvenor’s 300 years of experience, it’s easy to brag about Smith living.

THE BELTLINE NEIGHBOURHOOD: Calgary’s hottest entrepreneur and design district. You’ll skyrocket to best dressed in your office.

THE CITY’S BEST RESTAURANTS: The four blocks around you are home to dozens of brewpubs and chic eateries.

IN-BUILDING PRESENTATION CENTRE & SHOW HOMES NOW OPEN!

103 - 1501 6th St SW

Open Monday - Thursday 12-6pm & Saturday - Sunday 12-5pm

Closed Fridays or by appointment only.

403.264.1703 Smith17.com

BANKERS HALL

Blu’s Carati Fine Jewellery

Parfum Gallerie Itinerante Flowers

Purchase $100 or more at Bankers Hall and receive 3 hours of complimentary parking. Visit bankershall.ca for details.

Dress: Blu’s, Clutch: Blu’s, Jewellery: Carati

The Originator of Cultured Pearls. Since 1893.

2601, 220 12 Avenue SE, Calgary, AB

Keynote penthouse with unobstructed views in every directions. Comprised of the entire floor, this 5,638 sq.ft home offers complete privacy & luxury throughout.

Sotheby’s Auction House has been marketing the world’s most cherished possessions since 1744

home privately positioned in Canmore’s Silvertip Resort with stunning panoramic vistas.

Morgans Ridge, Springbank, AB

Stunning masterpiece in prestigious Morgan’s Rise. 11,000+ sq.ft. with mountain views. Designed by McDowell & Associates, built by Brighton Homes. MLS#C4104991

3409 9 Street SW, Calgary, AB

Empire Custom Homes masterpiece in Elbow Park boasting over 5,000 sq.ft of refined luxury throughout. 5 bedrooms 5.5 bathrooms, triple garage & sprawling west yard.

3611 5 Street SW, Calgary, AB

On a private lot in one of Calgary’s most prestigious neighbourhoods, this home offers a delicate balance of contemporary & historic design. MLS#C4095552

Not a condo. Luxury 3-Storey backing onto the Elbow River. 3 car garage, renovated, professionally designed backyard built for the 100 year flood. MLS#C4094904

Stone 4 03.669.5390

31143

Casually elegant 2-storey home, stunning architecture, 5 bedrooms, 6,100+ sq.ft. fully developed, 1,800 sq.ft. of outdoor living, panoramic mountain views. MLS#C4106791

Sub-penthouse in Princeton Grand. Private elevator, 12 ft. ceilings, large windows with beautiful views, superb floor plan for entertaining. MLS#C4106791

#3903, 1188 3 Street SE- The Guardian Sub-penthouse on the 39th floor boasts panoramic views, 2,400+ sq.ft., 2 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, 3 balconies & 4 parking. Urban living at new heights.

#1106 530 12 Avenue SW, Calgary, AB

Boasting modern luxury throughout and unobstructed city views. Only a few minutes walk to downtown, LRT, Mission, Stephen Ave and 17th Ave. MLS#C4084761 Dennis Plintz 4 03.608.1112

New, spacious, and unique 2-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom 2-storey loft. Steps to parks, the river pathway system and minutes to the core. Various suites available.

Located inner-city, this family home offers modern architecture and design. 4 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, open layout, and double garage. MLS#C4099591

Mission 34 - 93 34 Avenue SW, Calgary, AB

New - spacious and bright south-facing 2-bedroom 2-bathroom suite steps to Mission and the river pathway system. Various suites available. MLS#C4096898

In

AB

#404 600 Princeton Way SW, Calgary, AB

2240 33 Street SW, Calgary, AB

#303 1000 15 Avenue SW, Calgary,

SoBow - 63 Inglewood Park SE, Calgary, AB

Grandarches Drive, Springbank, AB,

2323 Erlton Place SW, Calgary, AB

Wolf has never had a more exciting selection of ranges and cooktops – stunning in both performance and design. If you’ve been thinking about a cooking upgrade, now is the time to act. For a limited time, Wolf is offering significant rebates on some of its most popular products.

Savings can be combined with the Dream Kitchen Event Promotion

bradleedistributors.com/promotions

GET TO KNOW OUR RESIDENTIAL SIDE

For over a century, PCL has built an unequalled reputation constructing large-scale commercial projects. What is lesser known, is we also build residential and mixed use developments - each with the same passion, expertise, and competitiveness that are the hallmarks of PCL.

Every day we push ourselves to deliver beyond the expected. For more information about PCL Residential, contact: Carlos Gollega | Manager, Residential and High Rise Division 403 -250-4851 | cagollega@pcl.com

WE TEACH OUR STUDENTS THAT THEIR LEARNING HAS NO LIMITS, THAT WE TREASURE THEIR IMAGINATION, AND THAT THEY ARE ALL WELCOME IN OUR CLASSROOMS.

As a professional organization that advocates for public education, the ATA puts learning first, ensuring the story of education is a positive one. Find out more at storyofATA.com

FEATURES

Calgary Innovations in Design

Calgary’s design scene benefits from a wealth of companies with innovative ideas. We profile seven groups doing cutting-edge work in every

Calgary. Check out our picks for some of the best traditional and non-traditional tacos, as well as the best deals and options for the ultimate home taco condiment bar.

By Elizabeth Chorney-Booth, Jennifer Hamilton, Gwendolyn Richards and Alana Willerton

— we profile four active Calgary retirees, look at how and why aging has changed and some local innovations that will keep our city ahead of the demographic curve.

By Käthe Lemon and Karin Olafson

Whether you want to add the latest trends to your existing closet or build a new one from scratch, our guide breaks down what you can

JASON ENG

Jacket from Topman; Carhartt shirt from gravitypope; 501 jeans from Levi’s; Converse shoes from LESS17; Tres Noir eyewear and Repop Manufacturing from Ill-Fated Kustoms + Tank Kimono from Blue Blue Japan; Engineered Garments shirt from Understudy; Prada jeans from Holt Renfrew; John Fluevog shoes from gravitypope; hat from Smithbilt Hats; vintage pins from IFK-TANK and the National; Grok Leather bracelet purchased in Japan; Steven Webster silver bracelet from Maxfield’s Los Angeles; David Yurman rings and King Baby ring from Holt Renfrew; Repop Manufacturing ring from IFK-TANK; Stance “Harley Davidson” socks from The Shop in Vancouver.

6313 Turbine Grey

DEPARTMENTS

28 EDITOR’S NOTE

30 CONTRIBUTORS

122 WORK OF ART CITY

35 Detours

Meet the Calgary Sketch Club, an artist group that’s been around since 1909, learn how the Macbeth “curse” is dealt with in Calgary theatre and see the numbers behind the CBC Calgary Reads’ Big Book Sale.

STYLE LIFE

100 Style Q&A

Avenue talks to Kenny Kwan and Peter Feenstra, owners of men’s lifestyle and motorbike store Ill-Fated Kustoms + Tank, about their modern-biker look.

40 Good Taste

How to serve a fancy afternoon tea for Victoria Day.

81 Mountains

42 Mixer

Banish the ghosts with this Hunter S. Thompson-inspired cocktail from Cannibale.

Our essential guide to summer in the mountains lets you in on all the best things to do, the best places to eat and the best places to stay in the mountain towns and mountain parks near Calgary.

107 Culture and Beauty

Four local women and tell us how their culture influences their beauty practices.

114 New & Noteworthy

Three items in Calgary we love right now.

116 Decor

Country charm and city style come together in the Crossfield home of Liz and Calvin Helfrich.

MODERN CLASSIC.

Styles and tastes can change with the seasons. Your new home is a somewhat longer-term proposition. That’s why we infuse every one of our creations with a timeless modern quality that’s based upon solid fundamentals - access to natural light; e nt use of space; the elegant interplay of materials; sensitivity to surroundings. Ideas like these never go out of fashion, which means that your new Alloy Home will remain an important part of Calgary’s urban fabric for years to come

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Contributors Kate Barutowicz, Elizabeth Chorney-Booth, Shannon Cleary, Andrea Cox, Jason Eng, Madison Farkas, Christian Frederiksen, Sam Island, Lisa Kadane, Brendan Klem, Megan Kopp, Kait Kucy, Asim Overstands, Andrew Penner, Gwendolyn Richards, Lynda Sea, Julie Van Rosendaal, Katherine Ylitalo

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Useful and Beautiful

William Morris, the English textile designer (and architect/poet/ novelist/translator and socialist activist), famously said: “Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful.” If you have come under the influence of Marie Kondo, author of the The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up, you may live by the more stringent idea of getting rid of everything that doesn’t “spark joy.”

It’s often the case that joy — or beauty — and utility are thought of as opposites. Beauty in this equation being frivolous and useful being dull, even clunky. But over and over the designers and architects we spoke with for our annual Architecture and Design issue this month mentioned utility and beauty together — not that it was an ideal for these two concepts to come together, but a requirement. Can a design be truly beautiful if it is not useful? Can it truly bring the most joy possible if the product or space isn’t also designed for easy use? They argued no.

In fact, many told us that the finished product couldn’t be separated from the way it was produced. Whether it is the compost from Hop created in a high-tech inner-city facility (page 46), the super-efficient and low-waste Bone Structure home (page 47) or a public building created to be

Käthe Lemon Editor-in-Chief klemon@redpointmedia.ca

universally accessible (page 52) — great products and buildings are created with great methods that take waste and process into consideration.

Our story on local products to get your closets in order (page 56) shares this theme as well — you couldn’t call a shelf or closet well-designed if it wasn’t functional as well as organized for style. If you are in the midst of spring cleaning, this article will no doubt inspire you.

Our story about culture and beauty (page 107) speaks to the same theme from another angle.

EDITOR ’ S PICK

Set your sights on summer with our guide to essential mountain experiences.

The four women we interviewed all told us that beauty was not only in the eye of the beholder, but that it was also in the lived experience of each of us. Demonstrating their cultural signifiers of beauty allows for self-expression, community building and a connection to the past — as well as the opportunity to feel good about themselves. We hope you find something in this issue that is both useful and beautiful to you.

Revolutionary CresseyKitchen™ with its walkthrough layout, ample storage and decadent finishes Air conditioning for warm-weather comfort

Wide-plank engineered hardwood flooring in main living areas

Over 250 square feet of outdoor living on a private terrace

Stay warm with in-floor radiant “Nu-Heat” in ensuite bathroom

Walk on stylish pure wool-blend carpeting in all bedrooms

Over 1,250 square feet of space over two levels

SHANNON CLEARY

Shannon Cleary is a freelance writer living in Calgary with her husband and three daughters. Her work has been published in Avenue, Calgary Hockey and Lifestyle Maritimes Magazine, among others. Cleary has a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree, both in journalism. In 2016 she was selected as one of five new Alberta voices through the Writers’ Guild of Alberta mentorship program.

CHRISTIAN FREDERIKSEN

Christian Frederiksen studied design at Alberta College of Art and Design, but didn’t like the idea of showing up to work at an agency every morning, so he chose the life of a hired gun. He is an award-winning illustrator and graphic novelist and has been making art for both random strangers and esteemed publications for a few years now. He has been featured in Communication Arts, American Creative Quarterly. Frederiksen was born in Calgary and lives for beauty, truth, sunny fields and starry skies. He uses his free time to write, wander around at night, and take pictures on top of big mountains.

MEGAN KOPP

Work can be play and play can be work for freelance travel and outdoor writer Megan Kopp. She’s been known to meet the occasional writing deadline from a campsite — her smartphone and laptop are two of her best friends — and she always prefers hiking in the Rockies, paddling prairie rivers, or exploring historic sites to the office. You can find Kopp teaching a continuing education travel-writing class at Mount Royal University or follow her on Twitter @cdnhiker.

ASIM OVERSTANDS

Asim Overstands is a proud father and husband who holds down a job at an investment firm by day and pursues his creative interests as a street, lifestyle, travel and portrait photographer outside of the office. You can see more of his work at asimoverstands.com or on his Instagram feed @asim_overstands.

Ask

an Expert:

it possible to build a retirement nest egg with a not-so empty nest?

Brian Gervais, Senior Vice President, Prairie Region, TD Bank

It’s a living situation that has become more common with the tough economy; millennials are finding it hard to set out on their own and are instead, finding themselves moving back in with their parents. I’ve found myself in exactly this situation with a new university graduate back at home. While it’s natural to want to help your children and grandchildren as they are starting out, it is important that this desire to help be balanced with meeting your retirement goals.

Here are my tips for managing a household of millennial children while preparing for retirement:

1. Seek advice:

Have your whole family sit down with a financial planner to identify short, medium and long term financial goals together. Ensuring that your goals align with your kids’ goals will make it easier to work toward the same objective.

2. Set a date:

It can be difficult to let go, but it is important to determine a date where your children can no longer be financially reliant on you. Establishing mini-goals will help you save funds for your retirement plan, while your kids work towards meeting milestones for their own financial plans.

3. Divvy up responsibilities:

Work out how all family members can contribute to the household budget, having everyone pitch in on the costs of running a household will ensure everyone can save for their respective goals.

What retirement looks like now is vastly different from what it was even 10 years ago, but placing greater personal responsibility on financial planning on each family member will make sure retirement dreams for all are within reach.

Come visit us or book an appointment at tdcanadatrust.com/locator

Brian Gervais Senior Vice President, Prairie Region TD Bank Brian.Gervais@td.com

CHEAP EATS

The best dishes you’ll find at every price point from under $1 to $20.

PATIO PRIMER

Our guide to the best new patios at local restaurants.

REVAMP TO RENOVATE

Whether you’ve got a weekend, a week or a month, there are lots of ways to update the heart of your home — the kitchen.

cityDETOURS

Brushes with History

The Calgary Sketch Club has been around for more than 100 years and is now looking to the century ahead.

Calgary’s relative youth as a city means there are few institutions in the city that have existed for more than a couple of decades. But one group, the Calgary Sketch Club, has been active and operating for more than 100 years.

Challenger by Virginia Carr.

Painting by Virginia Carr, courtesy of Virginia Carr

DETOURS

The club, originally started as a gathering of like-minded plein-air artists, has been active since 1909, save for a hiatus during the First World War. In that time, it has maintained its commitment to, in the words of one of its co-founders, “create that which is beautiful; to portray nature in all its exquisite beauty; to meet together as artists that enthusiasm may be stimulated, skill improved and knowledge widened in the study of art.”

The club, which still meets every Thursday night, today counts more than 100 members selected by jury. There are showings and events held regularly throughout the year, as well as two mountain camp retreats where members return to the club’s roots and paint in plein-air style.

Sharon Post, the club’s historian, says they have boxes of documents collected over the club's long history, a trove of information which she has been wading through for more than two years to piece together the club’s story.

“I think it is a responsibility to let people in Calgary know about the history of the Sketch Club,” she says. “It’s unfortunate that history gets overlooked a lot. For me, it’s exciting to go back and see like-minded artists get together in 1910, with the same goals and hopes that we have now.”

The club has certainly helped grow Alberta’s art community; past members include renowned artists like Margaret Shelton and Roland Gissing, and paintings from club members can be found everywhere from the Glenbow Museum to the private collection of Queen Elizabeth II.

Club co-president Laurie Thompson says the Sketch Club will be undergoing a rebranding in a bid to attract younger members and make it more current, all while preserving its rich history. “Now people look at art as something to do in retirement and we’re trying to change that,” she says. “We’re trying to incorporate some of the history and take that into the future.”

—Andrew Guilbert

For more information, go to calgarysketchclub.com.

The Curse of Macbeth

Shakespeare’s Macbeth is one of the Bard’s more popular tragedies — it’s a quick read that follows one storyline and is packed with bloody action. It also may or may not be cursed. Otherwise-non-superstitious people will not say “Macbeth” inside a theatre to avoid drawing the ire of the curse onto any given production. Instead, cast and crew call it “the Scottish play” or “Mackers.” If the name is uttered, the guilty party must leave the theatre immediately, turn around three times and spit.

Some say the play was cursed from its first production. In the early 1600s, people believed the witches’ dialogue contained actual black magic and the first actor to play Lady Macbeth died suspiciously on stage.

The alleged curse hasn’t hurt ticket sales for The Shakespeare Company (TSC). The Calgary company’s 2016 production of Macbeth sold out. It was so popular, TSC is remounting the dark tale of bloodthirsty ambition this month.

Actor Anna Cummer, who plays Lady Macbeth and adapted Macbeth for TSC, says preliminary rehearsals of the 2016 production were mostly uneventful — at first. “Craig [Hall], our director, said in rehearsal, ‘I just want you to know that I am not superstitious so I’ll be saying “Macbeth” the whole time.’”

But when the company moved the production into the theatre space, Cummer says things got spooky. “We had an actor get very, very sick and she broke some bones in her foot. Then the theatre was broken into,” she says. “It was bizarre. We were like, ‘it’s the curse!’”

The cast and crew smudged the theatre and said both the Lord’s Prayer and a Muslim prayer before opening night and again halfway through the run. Needless to say, the word “Macbeth” wasn’t said quite so freely from that point on. “After that, there definitely was a shift,” Cummer says.

The demanding nature of Macbeth could be the cause of the frequent mishaps that plague productions. “You have to pour yourself into it 110 per cent or it’s just not satisfying for either the actors or the audience,” Cummer says.

The potential that something spooky may happen makes the production better, says Cummer. “There’s this aspect of playing with fire that charges the performances and ultimately makes it a better show.” —Meredith

Bailey

The Shakespeare Company’s Macbeth runs May 12 to 27 at Vertigo Theatre. For more information go to shakespearecompany.com.

The CBC Calgary Reads Big Book Sale By the Numbers

The CBC Calgary Reads Big Book Sale is a staple event in Calgary’s literary scene, and is celebrating its 15th anniversary this year. Shoppers by the thousands flock to the event each year to give used books across all genres a new home. From well-loved children’s picture books to young-adult fantasy to hot-off-the-press bestsellers, the sale is a haven for readers of every stripe. Here are some numbers from last year’s sale for perspective. —

Madison Farkas

250,000 books donated.

668 volunteers (including 19 community and corporate teams).

5,002 volunteer hours.

10,896 shoppers

94,412 books sold (including nearly 44,000 children’s books).

30,000 to 50,000+ unsold books per year in the last three years donated to community groups, as well as nonprofits in Chad and the Philippines.

300,000+ dollars raised (net).

Calgary Sketch Club members.

The CBC Calgary Reads Big Book Sale runs May 12 to 14 at the Calgary Curling Club. calgaryreads.com.

Manor Townhomes

An Elevation In Thoughtful Design

Experience Mattamy’s Stylish Architecture in The Gates at Hillcrest

Spacious, open concept main floors. Oversized windows that flood every corner with natural light. Private backyards perfect for relaxing. These are just a few of the thoughtful design features Mattamy incorporates into its Manor Townhomes. With floorplans ranging in size between 1,471 sq.ft. – 1,698 sq.ft., a Manor Townhome gives you the space and lifestyle of a Single Family home, with the affordability of a Townhome. And with no condo fees and front attached garages, The Gates of Hillcrest makes Mattamy’s Manor Townhome design the perfect fit for any family.

Find your next home at mattamyhomes.com

DETOURS

OPERA NYC MEETS YYC

UNTIL MAY 7

Cowtown Opera Company’s final show of the 2016-2017 season is a Broadway sing-along, done Calgarystyle. The company will perform an original story with songs from musicals such as The Sound of Music, West Side Story and My Fair Lady Mamdani Opera Centre, 1315 7 St. S.W., cowtownoperacompany.com

FOOD AND WINE CANMORE UNCORKED

MAY 3 TO 14

Canmore’s annual food and drink festival moves from April to May this year. Expect 12 days of prix-fixe menus at more than 20 participating restaurants, as well as one-of-a-kind feature events such as the Long Table Dinner, the Uncorked Wine Festival, progressive dinner tours by bus, bike or foot, and the Big Brunch.

YOUR BACKYARD. YOUR VIEW. EVERYDAY.

LIMITED SW LOTS REMAINING

THEATRE THE DROWNING GIRLS

MAY 13 TO JUNE 11

This play, about three women in love with the same man who all end up dead, was first staged in 2008 at ATP’s former playRites Festival of new Canadian Plays. This latest staging caps off Vertigo Theatre’s 2016-2017 mystery season and is directed by Blake Brooker and choreographed by Denise Clarke, both of One Yellow Rabbit.

Openings

HIGH LINE BREWING

Get your fill of locally brewed beer at the recently opened High Line Brewing in Inglewood. Located in what used to be an auto garage, the space features a 23-seat tasting room where you can try beers like the Smokes Scotch ale or YMPA pale ale. 1318 9 Ave. S.E., highlinebrewing.com, @highlinebrewing

JINYA RAMEN BAR

PO-KE

This is the city’s first eatery dedicated to poke, a Hawaiian dish that features raw fish, soy sauce, sesame oil, green onions and other toppings on rice. Located in Crescent Heights, Po-ke serves customizable poke bowls, poke dogs and sushi burritos. 908 Centre St. N., po-ke.ca

PROVISION

This new restaurant from the owners of Avec Bistro has opened in the space formerly occupied by Boxwood in Central Memorial Park. Chef Daniel Pizarro

GOOD TASTE

BY Julie Van Rosendaal PHOTOGRAPH BY Jared Sych

Afternoon Tea

Afternoon tea (as opposed to high tea, which refers to a more substantial evening meal) is a fancy, late-afternoon meal consisting of tea, scones, finger sandwiches and sweets. It is gaining in popularity on restaurant menus, though it can be pricey to eat out. If having friends over is more your cup of tea, you can assemble your own — buy some fancy cups at a thrift shop or raid your grandmother’s china cabinet and pick up some tasty bites to pile high.

SCONES FROM FRAMBOISE

A good scone is the foundation of any proper afternoon tea, and they have divine sweet and savoury ones at Framboise — large with crusty edges and tender middles.

1104 20 Ave. N.W., 403-210-0023, framboisebakery.ca, @framboisecafe

CRÈME FRAÎCHE FROM THE COOKBOOK CO. COOKS

House-made crème fraîche from The Cookbook Co. Cooks is Alberta’s answer to English clotted cream. Thick and tangy, it’s the perfect spread for warm scones.

722 11 Ave. S.W., 403-265-6066, cookbookcooks.com

PETIT FOURS FROM AMANDINE BAKERY

Amandine has been in the same space on Centre Street, and run by the same family, since the ’80s. They’re experts at European-style cakes and loaves and have an affordable assortment of petit fours (tiny decorated cakes and other sweets) as well as Florentines and macarons.

3 2610 Centre St. N., 403-276-3532, amandinebakery.net

LOOSE-LEAF TEAS FROM NATUR'EL TEA

Of course, a tea party needs an assortment of delicious teas, like those from Natur’el Tea, which blends its teas in Banff. Choose from classic organic creamy Earl Grey or orange pekoe, or try something different, like vanilla mint chai, Callebaut black raspberry or the cinnamon plum herbal tea.

Available at Amaranth Wholefoods, 7 Arbour Lake Dr. N.W., 403-5476333, and various other locations; natureltea.ca, @natureltea

EGG-SALAD SANDWICHES FROM RUSTIC SOURDOUGH BAKERY & DELI

If you want to take it easy, pick up some freshly made egg-salad sandwiches at Rustic Sourdough and cut them into fingers. Or choose from a selection of sliced meats and cheeses, bread sliced to order, and interesting jams and preserves to pair with your scones.

1305 17 Ave. S.W., 403-245-2113, rusticsourdoughbakery.com, @rusticsourdough

MIXER

BY Lisa Kadane PHOTOGRAPHY BY Jared Sych

Cannibale

Bridgeland’s community cocktail bar will help you banish the ghosts.

What do cocktails and coiffures have in common? “They’re both throwbacks to a bygone era,” says Shayne Perrin who, as it happens, is a purveyor of both.

His Bridgeland establishment Cannibale houses a bar and a barbershop. Patrons can, literally, get a trim and a tipple at the same time. This, says Perrin, sums up Cannibale’s driving philosophy: that it pays to be well-groomed, well-fed, properly imbibed and in the company of good people.

Perrin’s grandfather was a barber in Vermont from the 1930s to the 1980s, so when grooming culture started making a comeback a couple of years ago, Perrin — who also owns neighbouring Blue Star Diner as well as Dairy Lane Café in West Hillhurst — saw an opportunity to resuscitate the family business. Since the Bridgeland space was too big for just classic cuts and beard management, Perrin and co-owner Mike Hope decided to combine it with another hipster craze: cocktails. A bar with a barbershop was born.

Perrin’s only caveat to embracing hipster culture was that Cannibale (so named because it’s in Bridgeland’s Cannibale Block) would be welcoming rather than intimidating. He wanted it to be a community gathering place where neighbours would be as comfortable ordering a rye and Coke as a Corpse Reviver cocktail.

The two-level space features banquettes and tables, but the focal point is the marble wraparound bar. Pull up a stool and peruse the menu, which is organized by era: pre-prohibition classics such as the daiquiri and sazerac, post-prohibition and tiki drinks like the paper plane and mai tai, and a “revival” category that includes cocktails from bars in other cities that are neo-classics in the making.

Cannibale is also keen to leave its stamp on cocktail culture. The bar team has cycled through some fantastic originals since it opened in 2015, including Banish the Ghosts, a cocktail named after a line in Hunter S. Thompson’s novel

The Rum Diary about hanging on until dusk to “banish the ghosts with rum.”

The intoxicating combination has a base of cachaça (a Brazilian rum-like spirit with a sweet, grassy essence) and is bright and refreshing, thanks to the equal parts of lime and grapefruit juice. Falernum syrup imbues it with tiki flavours — cloves, cinnamon, allspice, star anise — while a splash of amaro and a dash of Angostura give it a bitter edge, and the gum syrup a slightly heavy mouthfeel.

It’s just the thing to banish your own bad thoughts, though if it doesn’t help you transform mentally, you could always pop over to the barbershop for a different kind of makeover.

RECIPE

BANISH THE GHOSTS

Into a cocktail shaker add:

0.5

2 dashes

Add ice and shake. Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice and garnish with a lime wheel.

by Mark Roeric,

1.5 oz. Novo Fogo cachaça +

0.5 oz. The Bitter Truth Falernum +

oz. grapefruit juice +

0.25 oz. Amaro Montenegro +

Angostura bitters

Recipe

Cannibale

John Brown is a registered architect. He is a founding partner in Housebrand and a Professor of Architecture at the University of Calgary where, through the Design Research Innovation Lab, he explores the future of age-in-place design.

In the summer of 2015 we launched our Future Adaptive Building Program with the opening of our FAB Concept House. The project was a labor of love for everyone in the office. Architects rarely get a chance to be their own clients and make all of the design decisions. We took full advantage of this opportunity and worked on the design for over a year to ensure that we were happy with all of the details both inside and out. From the light-filled interior to the high-tech building shell and the low maintenance landscaped lot, the project fully expresses our vision for residential architecture in the 21st Century.

In the summer of 2015 we launched our Future Adaptive Building Program with the opening of our FAB Concept House. The project was a labor of love for everyone in the office. Architects rarely get a chance to be their own clients and make all of the design decisions. We took full advantage of this opportunity and worked on the design for over a year to ensure that we were happy with all of the details both inside and out. From the light-filled interior to the high-tech building shell and the low maintenance landscaped lot, the project fully expresses our vision for residential architecture in the 21st Century.

Now the time has come for someone to make our Concept House their own family home. This is a fabulous opportunity to enjoy the many benefits of a brand new Housebrand home that is move-in ready and avoids the time and energy of building from scratch. In the meantime, we will continue to offer our weekend open house tours and demonstrate the many advantages of FAB.

Now the time has come for someone to make our Concept House their own family home. This is a fabulous opportunity to enjoy the many benefits of a brand new Housebrand home that is move-in ready and avoids the time and energy of building from scratch. In the meantime, we will continue to offer our weekend open house tours and demonstrate the many advantages of FAB.

• 2,920 sq feet above plus 1,162 sq ft basement level

• 2,920 sq feet above plus 1,162 sq ft basement level

• High performance structural insulated panel (SIP) construction

• High performance structural insulated panel (SIP) construction

• Unique courtyard design for indoor/ outdoor living

• Unique courtyard design for indoor/ outdoor living

• Adaptive interior using FAB modular closet and millwork system

• Adaptive interior using FAB modular closet and millwork system

• Low maintenance exterior with tilt and turn European window system

• Low maintenance exterior with tilt and turn European window system

• Fully landscaped 50’ x 124’ lot

• Wide plank European white oak hardwood throughout

• Fully landscaped 50’ x 124’ lot

• Wide plank European white oak hardwood throughout

• Double car detached heated garage with optional studio

• Double car detached heated garage with optional studio

John Brown is a registered architect. He is a founding partner in Housebrand and a Professor of Architecture at the University of Calgary where, through the Design Research Innovation Lab, he explores the future of age-in-place design.

Calgary Innovations in Design

These local companies are creating architectural, fashion and product designs that innovate in terms of concept, production, form and function.

BY Shannon Cleary

Design isn’t just about appearances. Good design includes a nuanced consideration of how a thing or space works, how it’s made, and how it meets a need. Some of the greatest innovations of the past century have used the tenets of design to create products and buildings that add value, shed inefficiencies and change the way we live.

Calgary’s cosmopolitan awakening has created a unique opportunity for designdriven innovation. With an abundance of creative talent and a sophisticated consumer palate, Calgary has become the perfect test kitchen for well-designed ideas.

Here are seven exciting innovations in building and product development that are currently coming to life in the city.

Hop Compost

When Kevin Davies considered compost production in Canada, he saw an industry that was overripe for modernization. Even though composting was environmentally friendly, the inefficiencies in the production were wasteful and the end-product packaging was ugly.

“The idea was to create a composting system that could transform food waste into the most nutrient-rich organic fertilizer alternative in the country,” says Davies, “so that people could not only have healthy kids and pets, but better crop yields in organic farming and localize our food supply.”

While most composting facilities are rural, large quantities of food waste are generated in densely populated urban areas. Hop’s plant minimizes high-emission hauling with its inner-city location near Ogden Road in the southeast. Its computerized, odorless composting system provides much higher quality control than traditional composting and also allows Hop to create its “Hop Impact Reports” to show the restaurants it partners with the impacts of their composting. Last year, Hop saved more than 2.3 million pounds of food waste from landfills.

“A single bag of [Hop Organic Craft Compost] has the nutrients of about eight bags of conventional compost,” says Davies. “It’s twothousand times cleaner than [OMRI] organic standards.”

INNOVATION:

Inner-city production reduces hauling emissions. Computerized processes increase compost quality and reporting. And the product packaging is beautiful.

Hop introduced its fertilizer alternative to market in 2016 and it sold out within 48 hours. The packaging was designed as an elegant reprieve. “When you walk through a garden centre, you’re bombarded with a barrage of neon colour,” says Davies. “Hop is intentionally a yin to that yang.”

With a new facility in Vancouver already operating at capacity, Davies plans to expand further into Canada and the United States.

“For years the conversation around sustainable food has been all about farm to table,” says Davies. “The next leap forward for sustainable food is going table to farm.” hopcompost.com

Kevin Davies, founder and CEO of Hop Compost.

Bone Structure

GREEN ROOFS

Despite the distant mountain vistas, the view from the upper storeys of Calgary’s office towers can leave much to be desired.

“It’s just ugly and mechanical,” says Kerry Ross, a Calgarybased design consultant and one of the first accredited Green Roof Professionals in Western Canada. “Those roofs should be utilized.”

As the owner of Green T Design Inc. and co-founder of the Alberta Ecoroof Initiative, Ross designs living architecture in Calgary, including the greenroof research and demonstration project at City Hall. The project was installed in 2014 and measures stormwater runoff, water quality, heat flow, viability of plant species and maintenance requirements. Compared to traditionally used bare-membrane roofs, green roofs outperform in a variety of measures, from thermal efficiency to air quality, habitat and aesthetics.

Ross collects data from several research initiatives across the city, and believes the next

phase for green roof development is education and outreach. She envisions tours of the City Hall test site, increased access for the public and even noonhour, rooftop yoga.

“It’s really nice to be out on the roof downtown,” she says. “So why aren’t we doing more of it?”

Although the concept of green or “sod” roofs is centuries old, Ross sees a need for renewal. Much of her effort goes toward scientifically substantiating the benefits of green roofs within Alberta’s climate.

“We want to start to return to our prairie landscapes and learn to appreciate them,” says Ross. “To have this large space where you can just go out and recharge in nature, I suppose that’s the whole point.” greentdesign.com

Kevin Mullen, president and founder of Empire Custom Homes, wanted an alternative way to build after two decades in the business.

“It was really just the need for creative design options for clients outside of what we’re used to here in Alberta,” says Mullen. “No one had really given us an alternative to wood.”

Mullen found that alternative in Quebec-based company Bone Structure, with Empire becoming the first Bone Structure Authorized Builder in Calgary.

“Our focus as a company is toward trying to find you a healthy alternative to build your house,” says Mullen.

Using a patented steel system inspired by Lego and Meccano as well as the aerospace industry, Bone founder Marc Bovet developed a method of building high-performance homes quickly and with little waste. Since 2005, Bone has assembled more than 250 homes across Canada.

Mullen sees this new approach to residential construction as an exciting opportunity for Calgary. “[It’s] more efficient and less waste,” he says. “The amount of waste when you build a standard wood construction house is just absolutely mindboggling.”

With a skeleton of recycled steel and an energy-efficient exterior shell, Bone homes are built to last, and can save up to 90 per cent of the heating and cooling costs compared to a conventional home. The durable steel framing means greater flexibility to eliminate load-bearing interior walls, allowing for expansive windows and living spaces.

“Ultimately, for homeowners, it’s a new method of home construction that will meet the test of time in terms of flexibility in the house, quality of the structure, and the ability for the house to change along with their lifestyles over a long period of time,” says Mullen. bonestructure.ca, empirecustomhomes.com

INNOVATION:

The patented recycled-steel-frame system greatly reduces construction waste, allows for flexible, open interiors and is faster to build than a traditional wood-frame home.

Designing green roofs for Alberta’s climate and proving that they are not only beautiful, but functional.

Green roof photograph courtesy of Kerry Ross

The green roof research and demonstration project is an example of the City's leadership in sustainable building design.

FAB Homes

John Brown is not in the business of predicting the future, but he does strive to design a house that is future-proof.

“Buildings are big, heavy things and life is fluid and changeable,” says Brown. “I really wanted to see if there was a way that we could design a house that was as flexible and adaptable as [a smart phone].”

Brown is one of the founding principals of Housebrand, the

INNOVATION:

BLACKLINE SAFETY

Before Blackline Safety Corp. created its series of wireless safety devices, many of its clients used an automated phone call system to monitor worker safety.

“Call centre systems are only as good as the frequency of check-in,” says Blackline’s chief technology officer and co-founder Brendon Cook. “There’s a balancing act between having a frequent enough check-in system to be resilient and responsive, versus the cost of it and loss of productivity.”

Calgary-based Blackline has designed devices that workers wear to detect injury, health events, physical assault or environmental hazzards and that provide around-the-clock connectivity. When a problem is detected, the device automatically connects the worker to a 24/7 in-house safety operations centre, meaning that lone workers always have someone they can reach or who can reach them.

“These individuals are connected every moment,” says Cook. “We can account for their well-being at any second.”

All of Blackline’s products are designed, manufactured and tested in its Calgary headquarters. Cook says this allows the company to move concepts quickly from the “back of a napkin,” to software, to sales and maintain higher quality overall. This has proven more important than the potential cost savings of overseas production.

Cody Slater, Blackline CEO and chair, helped pioneer the company’s “total detection” abilities in its person-worn monitoring

Calgary residential architecture and construction company behind FAB Homes. FAB stands for Future Adaptive Building and the design combines a high-performance shell with a customizable, pre-fabricated interior to create flexible, but not flimsy, living space.

After completing more than 250 remodels and new builds in Calgary, Brown believes the city now has a design literacy that makes it the perfect market for a modern take on homebuilding. “We live in a world where we expect customization and flexibility,” says Brown. “It resonates with people in a very deep way.”

FAB Homes are designed to meet homeowners’ changing needs without costly renovations. With a modular closet system that acts as walls placed

on top of a continuous floor, FAB Home owners can adjust the size and number of rooms as their families expand and age. The adaptable lighting and power grid provides flexible living and working space. The mechanical veins of the house are consolidated in a “technology chimney,” which is an accessible flue designed to accommodate future upgrades and energy decisions — an idea that anyone who has had cable lines or new electrical wiring added into an older home can appreciate.

“A house is a huge economic investment and has a really big environmental footprint,” says Brown. “You want it to be relevant for each generation of people who live there, including the lives that might change while they’re living in it.” housebrand.ca

devices. Blackline now offers multiple suites of monitoring products with cellular and satellite-based communication, real-time reporting and calibration, and even gas detection. Blackline’s is the first wireless personal safety monitoring system with two-way voice communications and gas detection in the world.

“Nobody [should] walk onto a site without proper protection,” says Slater, adding there has been a shift in safety standards over the past few years. “Most companies want to provide good safety, not just meet the minimum.” blacklinesafety.com

Prefabricated elements mean less waste, and the moveable walls and technology chimney mean the home can be easily adapted instead of needing renovation.

APPAREL INNOVATION CENTRE

Have you ever wondered about the evaporative resistance of cotton on a cross-country skier? Or the degree and location of burns on a body sprayed with drilling fluid? Michael Bussoli could answer those questions, with precision.

Bussoli is the general manager of the Apparel Innovation Centre (AIC) in Calgary, one of the most advanced clothing research, development and production facilities in the world. Its full-scale testing equipment includes a thermal comfort lab and a hot fluid and steam protection chamber, each designed to predict and improve clothing performance.

Bussoli said the AIC was created to address a growing demand in the North American apparel industry. “The

pendulum was swinging back from Asia,” says Bussoli about a move toward local production. Successful Canadian apparel companies have learned that closed-loop research, development and production leads to quicker innovation, Bussoli says. “And innovation leads to sales.”

The AIC is a partnership between Alberta Garment and Olds College, with funding from Western Economic Diversification Canada. In its first year of operation, the 13,000-square-foot facility fielded work from some of Canada’s biggest brands. Bussoli says client work orders, which are kept confidential, run the gamut from developing and testing prototypes to inventing new fabrics. The AIC also helps remove barriers to entry for entrepreneurs. The facility allows designers to

develop, test and eventually commercialize their product while maintaining control of their intellectual property and keeping production local.

“The apparel industry in Calgary is much more vibrant than people think,” says Bussoli. “Creating the Apparel Innovation Centre has given these small- and medium-sized designers, entrepreneurs and companies the tools to actually create new innovations.” apparelinnovation.org

onverting a century-old sandstone school into a state-of-theart creative hub makes perfect sense to cSPACE president and CEO Reid Henry. The King Edward is the flagship project for cSPACE, a social enterprise that supports Calgary’s community of artists, non-profits and entrepreneurs. But Henry sees more than just a compelling story in giving the old building a new social purpose. He sees

“You have a pipeline of talent that’s coming out of our city that kind of hits a wall,” says Henry. “We’ve heard over and over again that this is the kind of thing that retains talent in the city.”

The cSPACE Kind Edward provides 47,500 square feet of studio, production, exhibition and office space, and offers artists the opportunity to work as part of a larger group. The set-up blurs the boundaries between artist studios and entrepreneurial offices while providing a sustainable, adaptable space for innovation.

“We’ve brought in partners and tenants and corporations who believe in that trajectory for Calgary,” says Henry. “They want to make change, they want to be enabled to do fantastic, creative work.”

While the $33.3 million project creates affordable space and a collaborative hive for artists and entrepreneurs, Henry says it’s also a chance for Calgary’s creative community to act as an “energy pump” for the general public.

“Where individually they might have an impact in the cultural scene, collectively they have the power to shape a neighborhood and indeed maybe a city.” cspaceprojects.com

INNOVATION:

Bringing together artists and entrepreneurs in one space to preserve a historic building and provide cultural impact.

Providing a local clothing testing and production facility to encourage Canadian-made innovation.

The AIC's facilities allow local companies to test clothing for temperaturerating to predict and improve performance.

A TIME. A PLACE. A MOVEMENT.

Palm Springs Reimagine the Modern Movement. Discover the entire luxurious collection of bathroom products at dxv.com.

This DXV bathroom was designed by Beth Dotolo and Carolina Gentry.

Design for Everyone

BY Madison Farkas ILLUSTRATION BY Christian Frederiksen

Calgarians tend to place a high value on independence. You could even say it’s part of our identity. From starting a business to leading a community, we pride ourselves on getting things done on our own terms. But for many Calgarians, that independence is compromised by barriers imposed by the way our city is built.

Darby Lee Young is a former para-alpine ski racer with cerebral palsy who encounters obstacles all over the city. “The minute there’s a barrier, my independence is gone,” she says. “If I can’t get into a restaurant on my scooter and I have to wait for someone to let me in, my independence is gone. Everyone should be able to move throughout their day-to-day lives independently.”

wider, wheelchair-accessible doors and hallways.

The problem in cities like Calgary, where much of the urban fabric is decades old (at least), is that those changes don’t apply to anything built before the rules took effect. “If you look at a building that was built in the 1980s, it may seem like the provincial code is quite weak, but that building would not meet today’s provincial accessibility standards,” says Pat Sweet, a safety codes officer with the City of Calgary, who sits on the City’s advisory committee on accessibility (ACA). “We can’t force building owners to make expensive changes every time there’s a code update.”

Nearly 14 per cent of Canadian adults — some 3.8 million people — have a disability. Physically, the most common types are those that cause chronic pain, reduced mobility and limited flexibility, which all impact how or if a person can access buildings.

The Alberta Building Code (ABC) was updated in 2014 to include a new section on barrier-free design — that is, design that accommodates people with disabilities with things like

The fact that old buildings wouldn’t meet new standards is little comfort to people like disability advocate Mary Salvani, who struggles to navigate the many old buildings still used today. Salvani has cerebral palsy and osteoarthritis, and uses a cane and a walker. She says barriers like narrow store aisles and steep ramps are especially common in older neighbourhoods like Inglewood, where she lives. “Most places there, the walker doesn’t fit through the door, or there’s a step up,” she says. “Even at City Hall, I couldn’t get through the connector from the new building to the old building because of the stairs. I had to go around the outside, and I was exhausted by the time I got there. I don’t need to go everywhere or do everything, I just want people to see the problem and care enough to change it.”

The ABC represents the bare minimum, and has been improved on at the municipal level. The ACA’s access

Most people don’t think twice about walking down a narrow hall or up a few stairs, but for people with physical disabilities, these small design elements can turn into impassable obstacles.

design standards — rules above and beyond the provincial building code that all City-owned and -run buildings must comply with — are more comprehensive, focusing on universal design rather than barrier-free design.

The two terms are often used interchangeably, but barrier-free design caters specifically to people with disabilities. “A universal space is accessible to all people, not only those with disabilities, but also seniors and families with strollers,” says Young, who used to co-chair the ACA and consults with architects on universal design through her company Level Playing Field. “It makes sure the space is inclusive, that it’s flexible and simple and requires low physical effort so that everyone can use it with minimum fatigue.”

Sweet uses the example of an entrance with a separate buttonoperated door. “That’s barrier-free, but it’s not true universality, which would have everyone go through the same door,” he says. “People with disabilities are accounted for, but universal design doesn’t single them out as needing extra accommodation, like the building code does. We wouldn’t need those separate access points if everything was just accessible from the beginning.”

Salvani says that while barrier-free design is intended to be inclusive, it often has the opposite effect. “When you separate people with something that says, ‘this is for people who can’t walk,’ it feels exclusive,” she says. “It reminds people of their disability.” Her hope is that people with disabilities are not only thought of in the design of new buildings, but that they are given a voice and a place within the design process.

The ACA estimates that 200,000 Calgarians have some form of disability. Mobility problems spike in seniors, and with the city’s aging population, it makes sense to plan now for a future in which people are less mobile. While the committee recommends private builders follow its example and incorporate universal design, it has no power to enforce that recommendation. And, like the ABC, the access design standards only apply to new buildings and renovations.

Most old buildings haven’t been renovated for accessibility because of cost. Retrofitting an existing building with universal features is expensive, but that cost all but disappears if features are planned from the beginning. “There’s no aspect of universal design that would increase the cost of a project,” says Eric Toker, principal architect at the Calgary design firm Toker + Associates, which has done work for both public and private clients.

Universal design isn’t a new concept; American architect Ron Mace coined the term in 1985. But its principles haven’t been adopted everywhere because of persisting misconceptions. “People often think if something’s universal, it’s going to be cold and institutional,” Young says, “but it’s just a matter of thinking outside the box. You can get towel racks that are also strong enough to be grab bars and don’t look institutional.”

Sweet says the idea that universal design compromises aesthetics for accessibility is proven false in buildings like Winnipeg’s Canadian Museum for Human Rights. “That’s a very good example of universal design, and it’s gorgeous,” he says. “As more buildings like it start to emerge, universal design will be more accepted in the public conscience and we’ll start to see it more.”

The dearth of obvious examples of universal design presents a challenge from an architecture perspective. “The design community has an important role in ensuring our weight is behind universal design and showcasing it as a positive to our clients,” Toker says. “It’s not that they don’t want it, but historically it may not have been their top priority.”

Calgary is improving; the municipal complex’s accessibility was audited last year and some improvements were made. Most City buildings are expected to undergo a similar process.

Federally, Carla Qualtrough, Canada’s first minister of sport and persons with disabilities, is also drafting a new national accessibility act. The first of its kind in Canada, it’s still in the early stages and will likely take five to 10 years to roll out, but Young says it will be a big step forward.

Separate from any legislation, Young believes the biggest barrier to widespread accessibility in general is society’s attitude toward people with disabilities and their needs. “People think of us as second-class citizens, and that’s how we’re treated,” she says.

Salvani’s experience is similar. “No one thinks people with disabilities are capable of doing anything,” she says, “but if buildings are just designed well, we can.”

“No one thinks people with disabilities are capable of doing anything, but if buildings are just designed well, we can.”

— Mary Salvani, disability advocate

A CASE FOR Closets

How to get the most out of the space you stuff the most into.

BY Ricky Zayshley

Abeautifully designed, highly organized closet is no longer a luxury. Now, in the age of Instagram, Pinterest, HGTV and a plethora of other design inspiration resources, a great closet is simply the new normal.

In a 2015 study by Avid Ratings Canada in partnership with the Canadian Home Builders’ Association, 68 per cent of respondents said a walk-in closet was a “must-have” interior feature.

According to Cameron Johnson, owner of California Closets, this growing trend is all about peace of mind. “It’s organization of what you have — being able to have a home for your most important

items, whether it’s your clothing or your 50 pairs of shoes. Or your 500 pairs of shoes.”

And while more and more new homes are being built with custom closets installed by companies such as California Closets, Johnson says he sees many customers looking to add function to their existing space, especially those who are downsizing or adapting to a smaller home.

“They really have to think about what they own and where they’re going to put it all,” he says. “Having the opportunity to organize those items in a way that allows them to take it with them is vital.”

But before you revamp or totally renovate your closet, Wendy McAllister, owner of Calgary-based Simple Spaces recommends identifying what drives you crazy now. “Out of frustration will be born a great idea,” she says. If your disorganized ties or improperly hung pants are driving you crazy, she says that’s the place to start. “It sounds reversed, but that will really lead you to a great closet design and get you what you really need.”

No matter what your budget — from quick and inexpensive storage solutions to the professionally planned, walk-in closet of your dreams — function, quality and innovation is in reach.

“IT’S ORGANIZATION OF WHAT YOU HAVE — BEING ABLE TO HAVE A HOME FOR YOUR MOST IMPORTANT ITEMS, WHETHER IT’S YOUR CLOTHING OR YOUR 50 PAIRS OF SHOES. OR YOUR 500 PAIRS OF SHOES.”

—Cameron Johnson, California Closets

Maximize vertical space.

“If you have a shelf and a pole that runs across the whole width of your closet, you’re forced to hang everything and then pile things up on top of the shelf. Take out the shelf and rod and add a ‘double hang.’”

How to Rethink Your Basic Closets

California Closets

Edmonton and Calgary owner Cameron Johnson shares his tips on how to double — or even triple — the storage space in your standard reach-in closet.

Make room for the big stuff. “With the space you save from the double hang, you have the whole rest of the closet to add drawers with shelves, slanted shoe shelves and a laundry insert.”

Add what you really need.

“Maximize the space for full efficiency with the right type of space for the type of clothing and accessories that you have.

If you have a large number of accessories, add a velvet-lined jewellery tray. Put in a belt rack, put in a scarf rack, a tie rack.” California Closets, 1139 9 Ave. S.E., 403-640-9070, californiaclosets.com

Added functionality

“Shoe storage: wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling, even tucked behind doors. We’re also integrating makeup desks into a lot of closets now, so you’ve got a dedicated space.”

Mirror, Mirror, on the Closet Wall and other Trends in 2017

Next-level handles

“Handles have become the jewellery of the closet. People now spend a lot of time considering the finish, the colour, the style. What are they going to be using it for? Are they going to be hanging their dry cleaning off it? Do they want to match their ensuite cabinets or do they want to jump off and do something entirely different?”

Mirrors everywhere

“The biggest request right now is getting as much mirror and glass as you can pack into a closet. It gives the illusion of more space.”

LIGHTING FIXTURES

“It just adds that personal touch and it brings the space a really nice calm feeling. You start your day there, you end your day there. It should be just as nice as the rest of the home.”

WALLPAPER

“If you’re totally happy with your white closet and you just want a little refresh, add wallpaper.”

BACK-PAINTED GLASS

“Something that’s relatively new to the market is back-painted glass. We’re doing it as countertops, as backsplashes. It’s personal and it’s something you’re able to customize.”

Simple Spaces, 11550 40 St. S.E., 403-203-3333, simplespaces.ca

Wendy McAllister, owner of Simple Spaces, a Calgary-based closet, shower door, interior glass and mirror manufacturer, shares the year’s biggest trends.

Meet Tanya.

Meet Tanya. She’s been one of Calgary’s top selling Real Estate Agents for years. She has valuable experience working within Calgary’s Inner City Real Estate market, and she understands every client is as unique as their home.

Tanya takes the time to listen; to understand your wants and needs. She doesn’t expect your trust, Tanya earns it by consistently remaining honest, accessible and tenacious. That’s what sets Tanya apart.

The Tanya Eklund Group was founded on Tanya’s principles. The professionals within her group don’t work for Tanya – they work for you, the client. They provide unparalleled expertise, skill and service to Calgary’s inner city.

And their clients know it.

WWW.TANYAEKLUNDGROUP.CA

Tanya@tanyaeklundgroup.ca

Direct 403-863-7434

“Connect with me today — about your real estate needs for tomorrow”

TRENDY BASKETS

Indulge in cheap-and-cheerful, of-the-moment baskets to store anything from yoga mats to laundry.

Shop the Closet

SPECIAL LIGHTING

While lit closet rods and motion-sensor spotlights are practical, fancy chandeliers and sleek wall sconces give closets extra pop.

KEEP IT FRESH

Aromatic cedar helps repel moths and other insects which helps to preserve your woollens. Plus, it adds a hint of forest-fresh scent to the air.

HANG IT UP

Hangers aren’t just for pants and shirts. Think outside the box when it comes to your hanging options.

BOLD WALLPAPER

Dress up your closet’s white walls with over-the-top wallpaper. This is your chance to make a big impression in a small space.

Woven basket, $35, from HomeSense. Various Calgary locations, homesense.ca

Brass pendant, $579, from Crate and Barrel. Southcentre, 403-278-7020, crateandbarrel.com

Seagrass basket, $30, from Indigo. Various Calgary locations, chapters.indigo.ca

Wall/clamp spotlight, $30, from IKEA. 8000 11 St. S.E., 1-866-866-4532, ikea.ca

Cedar closet set, $10, from Canadian Tire. 9940 Macleod Tr. S.E., 403-278-4040, and various other Calgary locations, canadiantire.ca

HOOKED ON HOOKS

For garments and accessories on frequent rotation, opt for hooks inside and

Umbra pendant scarf holder, $15, from Twisted Goods. Market Mall, 403-247-6691 and Southcentre, 403-4526086, twistedgoods.ca

454-6051, mariatomas.com

DON’T HAVE A WALK-IN CLOSET? GO FOR A WALK-BY CLOSET INSTEAD.

Braided storage basket, $20, from H&M. hm.com

Graphic-printed basket,

from West Elm. 868 16 Ave. S.W., 403-245-1373, westelm.com

Elm. 868 16 Ave. S.W., 403-245-1373, westelm.com

Bamboo

EQ3. 8180 11 St. S.E., 403-2128080, eq3.com

hook, $8, from

LED sconce in copper or brass finishes, $234 each, from West

Antique grey modular clothes rack, $329, from Pottery Barn. Chinook Centre, 403-259-2100, potterybarn.ca

$159,

Farrow & Ball Closet Stripe wallpaper, prices vary by order, from Maria Tomás. 6051 Centre St. S., 403-

Smart, Clean Design:

For years Europeans have looked to designers to create space saving solutions for their homes. As the trend towards clean lines and modern practicality gains momentum in our neck of the woods, Robinson Lighting & Bath Centre and Duravit have the smart design solutions for your bathroom. Meet the ME by Starck and L-Cube Series by Duravit.

The L-Cube series has numerous style and size options, so you’ll only have the storage you need, and nothing more.

WHERE MODERN LINES MEET PRACTICALITY

For more information visit one of Robinson’s showrooms, explore their extensive online catalogue and Expert Advice or join them @robinsonltgbath on Instagram. Bring your home to life with the experts at Robinson Lighting & Bath Centre.

ME by Starck toilets save space with their water tanks stored inside the wall.

Less clutter means a cleaner, more compact look.

tacos tacos tacos tacos

CHICKEN MOLE TACOS @ Tres Marias

Mexican Market

This Marda Loop market and café rotates different tacos through its daily lunch specials (with the greatest variety available on Tuesdays) and, if you’re lucky, you’ll stumble upon the chicken mole taco. Tender shredded chicken is served with a rich and dark mole sauce and a tastier-than-average combo of Mexican rice and black beans. Plus, the market is full of goodies to take home, including house-made salsas. 3514 19 St. S.W., 403-243-5335, tresmarias.ca

CHORIZO TACO @ Taqueria Mexicana el Mariachi

Chorizo may be the ideal street-taco filling — spicy, just a little bit greasy and easy to stuff into a small tortilla — and the Taqueria Mexicana el Mariachi stall at Crossroads Market does it right. Dressed with onions, cilantro and lime, the chorizo tacos are even better if you liberally spoon on some creamy cilantro sauce — which is also available in larger take-home portions at the retail stall across the corridor. 1235 26 Ave. S.E., 403-606-0644, crossroadsmarket.ca

TUBBY DOG @ Tubby Dog

This 17th Avenue S.W. hot dog mecca may be known for its inventive hot dogs, but it also makes a mean taco on Tuesdays. Starting at 6 p.m., Tubby tacos, which come in chicken, pork, bean and cheese, beef, and slow-cooked beef tongue, are available for $3 each. Get there early as they sell out fast!

1022 17 Ave. S.W., 403-244-0694, tubbydog.com

CRISPY BASA TACO @ Añejo

There’s little that can beat the crunch of a battered piece of basa. Añejo’s basa comes on flour or corn tortillas and can be ordered individually (for a post-work bar snack) or in groups of three or six for a full meal. Because Añejo is primarily a tequila joint, be sure to chase your tacos with a top-shelf shot or a spicy chili coconut margarita.

2116 4 St. S.W., 587-353-2656, anejo.ca

FRIJOLAS TACOS @ Native Tongues Taqueria

The decor says hip and modern taqueria, but Native Tongues is dedicated to sacred Mexican culinary traditions. That dedication has inspired the restaurant to do tacos two different ways: tacos de guisado (plates of your choice of filling heaped on individual corn tortillas) and tacos al carbon (family-style, build-your-own taco platters of charcoal-grilled meat). They’re both worth trying, but for a break from the meat, the frijoles taco with refried beans, crema, queso fresco and cilantro is a tasty vegetarian treat.

235 12 Ave. S.W., 403-263-9444, nativetongues.ca

CRISPYBASATACO

LENGUA TACO @ The Spicy Amigos

The Spicy Amigos features one of the largest selections of taco meats in Calgary, with three kinds of chicken, three kinds of beef, and three kinds of pork. But it’s the lengua, or beef tongue, tacos here that are the standout. Cooked with onions and astonishingly tender, there’s good reason that tongue is a favourite among street-taco fans. Customers can mix and match four tacos for $12 and top them all with spicy selections from the Amigos’ hot sauce bar. —E.C.B. 821 4 Ave. S.W., 587-353-1484, thespicyamigos.com

Gwendolyn Richards PHOTOGRAPHY BY Jared Sych

@Añejo

CHAR SIU TACO @ Shiki Menya

A hip little ramen joint seems an unlikely place to find tacos, but the tacos at Shiki Menya are as crave-worthy as its bowls of noodles. The little Bridgeland spot has upped its taco game, now offering three options, but it’s the original taco, with tender, meaty chunks of char siu topped with a bright and fresh pineapple salsa and a scattering of cilantro leaves that we can’t stop ordering.

827 1 Ave. N.E., 403-454-2722, shikimenya.ca

FISH TACOS @ Anju

Fish tacos are typically a deep-fried affair with the battered fish as the star of the show. Anju’s version steers away from Baja tradition with a Korean take that involves a bit of DIY dining. A whole sea bream (a mild, white fish) is steamed and served alongside fresh salsa spiked with soy, a slaw made from green onions and seaweed lightly seasoned with a bit of salt and sesame oil.

344 17 Ave. S.W., 403-460-3341, anju.ca

LAMB TACOS @ Blue Star Diner

Middle Eastern and Mexican is an unexpected crossover, but the lamb tacos at Blue Star Diner make that combination a winner. The tacos are on the feature menu but pop up often enough to seem like a permanent fixture. They start with a local lamb shoulder, perfumed with warming spices such as cinnamon, and are topped with a fresh cucumber salsa perked with mint, tangy sumac yogourt and a baba ghanouj made with zucchini instead of the usual eggplant.

809 1 Ave. N.E., 403-261-9998, bluestardiner.ca

SALMON TARTARE TACOS @ Raw Bar

The traditional tortilla gets an Asian makeover for the spicy salmon tartare tacos at Raw Bar. Fried wonton wrappers are used instead of a tortilla, making for a crisp counterpoint to the filling. Inside, a tumble of coral cubes of salmon, dressed with a spicy sauce and a touch of wasabi, is cooled with matchsticks of red pear, slices of avocado and shredded lettuce.

119 12 Ave. S.W., 403-206-9565, rawbaryyc.ca

PULLED PORK TACOS @ Wild Rose Brewery

That standard of barbecue-joint menus gets a Mexican makeover at Wild Rose Brewery, which does pulled-pork tacos as an excellent complement to the creative beers. As with more traditional ways of serving pulled pork, these get topped with pickles for some tang and an apple slaw that cuts all that meatiness. While the tacos don’t get any nods for authenticity, they are served with tortilla chips.

4580 Quesnay Wood Dr. S.W., 403-727-5451, wildrosebrewery.com

DUCK CONFIT TACOS @ Market

Meaty and rich duck confit gets paired with a crisp, slightly spicy slaw in Market’s signature tacos. (Crispy fish and confit chicken round out the offerings.) The slaw bristles with black pepper and the house-made salsa verde — a drizzle of bright verdant green — nicely cuts the rich, tender shreds of duck. Plus, tacos are $3 on Tuesdays until 6 p.m. —G.R.

718 17 Ave. S.W., 403-474-4414, marketcalgary.ca

MANGO SALSA Salsita

Chunky and sweet, with a hint of cilantro and lime, this salsa is especially great as a fish taco topper and also works well alongside any grilled meat or with a bowlful of chips.

777 Northmount Dr. N.W., 403-289-2202, salsita.ca

COCONUT SALSA Taqueria Mexicana El Mariachi

This authentic joint in Crossroads Market has an extensive selection of sauces, the most interesting of which is the coconut salsa. A little bit tangy, a little bit sweet, it’s a delight spooned over grilled shrimp, and an obvious companion to anything involving pineapple. Crossroads Market, 1235 26 Ave. S.E.,

ULTIMATE

SPICY PICKLED CARROTS Beck

Farms

Great on a charcuterie board, these carrots are also a wonderful addition to the humble taco. Their spicy, briny goodness pairs well with the earthy flavours of Mexican spices. Julienne them for easy sprinkling.

Innisfail Growers at the Calgary Farmers’ Market, 510 77 Ave. S.E., 403-240-9113, calgaryfarmersmarket.ca

TACO SEASONING

Silk Road Spice Merchant

If you’re still buying taco seasoning in those little packets from the supermarket, you should know you’re getting mostly salt. Silk Road’s taco seasoning is a robust blend of ground ancho chilies, cumin, garlic, onion, Mexican oregano, tomato powder and more.

1403A 9 Ave. S.E., 403-261-1955, silkroadspices.ca

Chongo’s Market

Everyone loves guacamole and the stuff from Chongo’s Market is the best. Not too chunky, not too smooth, it’s made fresh each day the market is open with tomato, onion, cilantro and other bright ingredients that balance your tacos’ earthy, spicy flavours.

Crossroads Market, 1235 26 Ave. S.E., 403-921-4554, chongosmarket.com

RED SALSA Tres Marias

Basic red salsa is a staple on every table in Mexico, and it’s typically blended until smooth rather than left chunky like the kind we see in our grocery stores. Tres Marias’ contains tomatoes, onion, water, serrano and arbol peppers, and sea salt. That’s it, that’s all, and it’s good.

3514 19 St. S.W., 403-243-5335, tresmarias.ca — J.H.

#DINNERSERIESYYC #BESTRESTAURANTSYYC

6 MONTHS. 6 RESTAURANTS. 6 EXPERIENCES.

Reserve your seat at Avenue’s 2017 Dinner Series.

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MONDAYS

The Park Kitchen & Bar

The Park serves four kinds of tacos on Mondays — a $6 lobster, a $6 chicken, a $5 ahi and a $5 pulled pork taco. The deal starts at 2 p.m. and there’s no minimum order.

1200, 163 Quarry Park Blvd. S.E., 403-719-7200, parkkitchen.ca

Shillelagh’s Pub

At Shillelagh’s Pub in Signal Hill, you can get three beef tacos for $4.75 after 4 p.m. and wash them down with a $6 pint of Canadian or Coors.

323, 1851 Sirocco Dr. S.W., 403255-4747, shillelaghspub.com

Tipperary’s Pub

Starting at 4 p.m., Tipperary’s Pub offers up three soft- or hardshell beef tacos for $4.75. Pints of Canadian and Coors are also on the menu for $6.

2002 16 Ave. N.W., 403-289-5566, tipperaryspub.com

TUESDAYS

Bear & Kilt

This subterranean pub on Stephen Avenue offers three beef tacos and a beer for only $10 on Tuesdays from 4 to 8 p.m.

110 8 Ave. S.W., 403-232-8442

Joyce on 4th Irish Pub

Located in Mission, Joyce on 4th Irish Pub has shrimp, fish and a weekly featured soft taco for only $2.75 each starting at 4 p.m. Dos Equis pints and margaritas are also on special.

506 24 Ave. S.W., 403-541-9168, calgarysbestpubs.com/joyce

National

Head to any of National’s four Calgary locations any time on Tuesdays to try three fish tacos for $7.

Four locations, ntnl.ca

Pig & Duke

deals

deals deals deals

Roosevelt

Midtown Kitchen & Bar

Starting at 4 p.m., Pig & Duke’s two locations in Connaught and downtown serve two pork tacos for $4. Glasses of wine are also $1 off, and bottles of wine are $10 off.

1312 12 Ave. S.W., 403-245-8487 and 503 4 Ave. S.W., 403-4520539, pigandduke.ca

St. James Corner

Head to this downtown Irish pub for $2.50 Cabo tacos filled with basa, housemade pico de gallo and coleslaw after 4 p.m. There's no minimum order.

1219 1 St. S.W., 403-262-1157, stjamescorner.ca

Tropical

On Tuesdays and Thursdays, fans of Mexican street-style food can feast on $2.50 tacos from 4 p.m. until 10 p.m. There are seven different types to choose from, and also, tequila is half-price.

1424 17. Ave. S.W., 403-453-1214, tropicalon17.com

The Unicorn

After closing the doors on its original location, The Unicorn re-opened in the space formerly occupied by The Libertine and Below Deck, and now offers three floors of great pub fare. The Sports Cantina, which is on the upper level, offers two tacos for $5 on Tuesdays after 4 p.m. Mexican beer buckets are also $20 all day.

223 8 Ave. S.W., 403-265-3665, superpub.ca

WEDNESDAYS

Brewsters

Wednesdays are a great day to save money at Brewsters. Not only are there $4.99 fish tacos, but nachos, Wild West Wheat Ale, tequila shots and Bucerias margaritas are also on special. Various locations, brewsters.ca

This popular restaurant and bar on 17th Avenue S.W. offers beef short rib, tequila chicken, mushroom and shredded chipotle pork tacos for only $2 each after 2 p.m. Plus, bottles of Corona are $5. 933 17 Ave. S.W., 403-719-9330, rooseveltcalgary.com

UniMarket

UniMarket carries groceries, baked goods and meat at its south location. Stop by the instore restaurant on Wednesdays to get any of its nine taco varieties for $2.50 each. There are three beef, three pork, two chicken and one vegetarian option. 128 50 Ave. S.E., 403-255-4479, unimarket.ca

THURSDAYS

Dickens Pub

Offering one of the cheapest taco deals in Calgary, Dickens Pub is the place to be on Thirsty Thursdays. Beef tacos are your only option, but at $1 each, they’re a steal. Pints of Big Rock are also $5.50. 1000 9 Ave. S.W., 403-233-7550, dickenspub.ca

Home & Away

Starting at 4 p.m., Home & Away presents a new feature taco deal. Past offerings have included breakfast tacos, tempura shrimp tacos and southwest chicken tacos. The price varies depending on the ingredients. There’s a minimum order of three tacos, and bottles of wine are also half price.

1331 17 Ave. S.W., 403-455-9789, homeandawayyyc.com

Lot 102

There's nothing fishy about this deal: $2.50 fish tacos, with no minimum order. Drink specials include $25 buckets of Corona and deals on select tequilas.

102 10 St. N.W., 403-265-0018, lotrestaurants.ca

Midtown in Kensington serves $2.50 tacos all day on Thursdays. It's a minimum order of three tacos, and you can choose between fish and chicken. A $7 beer flight is the perfect accompaniment.

302 10 St. N.W., 403-474-2555, midtownkitchen.ca

FRIDAYS

Tenth

Street Landing Gastropub

Celebrate the end of the workweek with $3 fish, shrimp or chicken tacos, with a minimum order of three tacos. Wild Rose WRed Wheat beer is only $5.85. 506 10 St. N.W., 403-270-3525, tenthstreetlanding.ca

EVERY DAY

Blanco Cantina

This popular Mexican restaurant on 17th Avenue S.W. is worth a visit for tacos between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m., seven days a week. All taco orders, which come in threes, are half price. Good luck deciding between the slow-roasted pork, pulled chicken, beef brisket, ground beef and breaded basa filling options. 723 17 Ave. S.W., 403-228-1854, blancocantina.ca

Cactus Club Cafe

Available at all three Calgary locations, Cactus Club offers two types of tacos — Baja fish and chicken — for $3 each between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. and from 9 p.m. til close. They're also available at the downtown location all day on Sundays. three locations, cactusclubcafe.com

Julio’s

Barrio

Julio’s holds happy hour from 4 to 6 p.m. every day. During that time, chicken tacos are $3 each and a bottle of Pacifico beer is $4.

1110 Memorial Dr. N.W., 403-2033066, juliosbarrio.com — A.W.

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WHAT AGING LOOKS LIKE NOW

BY Käthe Lemon AND Karin Olafson PHOTOGRAPHY BY Jared Sych

ILLUSTRATION BY Sam Island

Whether you’re part of the boomer generation or a bright young millennial, the effects of age will eventually catch up to you (if you’re lucky). So there’s no time like the present to start thinking about your future, including when you’ll retire, what you’ll do with your time, where you’ll live and what your back-up plans are in case Plan A doesn’t pan out. Fortunately, lots of work is being done in Calgary to make the experience of aging better — you could even say this is the golden age of the golden years.

MEET THE RETIREES

Most people would agree that staying active is the key to a happy retirement. Here are four Calgarians who prove that age is no restriction when it comes to doing what you love.

Goranson

AGE: 81

RETIRED SINCE: 2000

A MEMBER OF:

The Calgary Aquamums Masters Synchronized Swimming Club

Doris Goranson doesn’t want to hear she’s too old to do what she loves. The 81-year-old believes that as long as you keep pushing yourself, anything is possible, even after retirement. That’s why every Tuesday and Thursday morning, you’ll find Goranson practicing synchronized swimming routines in the Repsol Sport Centre’s dive tank alongside her fellow Aquamums.

Goranson used to work as a sewing instructor at the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology and then as a production manager at Chintz & Company. She started synchronized swimming in her 40s because she liked it as a low-impact exercise, and joined the Aquamums at 55.

For Goranson, the Aquamums isn’t just about maintaining her physical fitness as she ages. She also likes the music, learning new routines and, most of all, her teammates, who she calls “my best buddies.” Combining

fitness, learning and socializing, synchronized swimming is integral to all components of Goranson’s healthy aging.

Despite having competed at 26 Alberta Provincial competitions and five World Masters Games since 1990, Goranson remains humble. “I’m not the best synchronized swimmer — but I love it!” says Goranson. “You get in that water, laugh and just work away at it. It’s a wonderful stress reliever.”

Goranson believes that one way to make the most of retirement is to stay curious. “You have to start thinking ‘yes! maybe I can do that’,” says Goranson. “It takes a little courage, but I’m always willing to try new things.” —K.O.

Since 1964, Masters synchronized swimmers have been training with the Aquamums. Club swimmers range in age from their 20s up to their 80s, but half of the Aquamum swimmers are 50 or older. For more information, visit aquamums.ca.

Emmett Hogan

AGE: 75

RETIRED SINCE: 2000

A MEMBER OF: The FLC Seniors Camera Club

Emmett Hogan is always busy doing something. He cross-country skis and skates; he golfs and performs with his band, the Midnight Blue Jazz Society. But according to Hogan, his busy schedule isn’t out of the ordinary. “I’d like to think this is the new normal for retirees,” he says.

The former chair of the Criminal Justice Studies department at Mount Royal College (now Mount Royal University), Hogan brought teaching with him into retirement. After participating in a one-time photography workshop more than four years ago at the Family Leisure Centre (now the Trico Centre), Hogan helped launch photography as a regular FLC club. Today, he is the FLC Seniors Camera Club lead instructor, a volunteer position that involves planning weekly lessons, field trips and workshops.

While Hogan loves that photography offers endless possibilities for creative expression and opportunities to keep learning, his involvement in the club is also in keeping with his values. “Retirement is initially an adjustment as you re-organize your self-image without employment,” says Hogan. “But people don’t lose their abilities just because they get older. I’ve always believed that if you have talents and something to offer, you have a responsibility to give back to others.” —K.O.

The FLC Seniors Club offers a range of activities for Calgarians over 55 — everything from curling to cycling to line dancing. The club has 2,500 members in total, with just over 100 seniors actively involved in the FLC Camera Club. For more information, visit flcseniors.ca.

Teresa Rambold

AGE: 59

RETIRED (FROM COACHING) SINCE: 1995

A MEMBER OF: The Olympia Skating Club

Two years ago, if you would have asked Teresa Rambold to lace up her figure skates and try an axel jump, she probably would have laughed at the suggestion. “I never thought I’d be skating at my age,” says Rambold. “I used to think figure skating was a sport for young people.”

But last year, after a little coaxing, the former competitive skater and full-time coach decided to re-engage with the sport she has always loved.

After taking 20 years off due to a serious injury, Rambold finally put her skates back on in January 2016. It was just as much fun as she remembered, so she joined the Olympia Skating Club in February 2016 and now trains there a minimum of three times per week. As well as the exercise, Rambold loves that the group inspires her creatively, and has introduced her to a new group of friends.

In June 2016, Rambold travelled to Oberstdorf, Germany, for the International Skating Union’s International Adult Figure Skating Competition. She won two silver medals, but that isn’t why she keeps lacing up her skates. “For me now, figure skating is about the joy of the sport and of the creative process,” says Rambold. “It’s not about trying to be what I used to be.”

Rambold skates for the sheer enjoyment of it, because for her, retirement is about getting happy and living fully. “Now, I can see myself being 80 and still skating,” says Rambold. “It’s a really good feeling to do something that feeds the spirit.” —K.O.

Established in 2014, the Olympia Skating Club is one of two adults-only figure skating clubs in Canada. Of the 25 members in the club, 10 are over the age of 50. For more information, visit olympiaskatingclub.ca.

Gladys Sands

AGE: 93 RETIRED SINCE: 1988

A MEMBER OF: The Silver Stars Musical Revue Society

WORKING LATE

Retirement age has become more fluid as increasing numbers of people are retiring later, especially in Alberta.

Although Alberta has a fairly young population compared to other provinces, more than 15 per cent of Albertans over the age of 65 work, compared to around 10 per cent of those over 65 in Canada as a whole. In 2009, 8.4 per cent of Albertans 70 and over still worked.

The average age of retirement in Canada has been increasing for many years. Overall, the average retirement age increased by a full year between 2011 and 2015. Those who retire latest are the self-employed, with an average retirement age of 66.7 in 2015.

show. She was even offered the chance to tour as one of Benny Goodman’s singers, selected by the King of Swing himself. (She was just 17 years old and couldn’t go without her parents’ permission. When her dad said “no,” the vocalist Goodman chose in Sands’ place was Peggy Lee.)

Sands gave up singing professionally when she got married and held a stable, sensible job managing the O’Neil Towers in downtown Calgary. But, on her 65th birthday, she left the nine-to-five grind behind and refocused on her music once again. “Even in my 40s and 50s, I knew I’d still be up on stage performing after I retired,” says Sands. “Music has always been a part of me and that’s why I’m still doing it. It’s almost like I’m addicted to music.”

Sands also plays guitar and piano, and has been part of three musical groups since retiring. Today, you’ll find her performing with the seniors-only musical theatre group, the Silver Stars Musical Revue Society. She has been singing with the Silver Stars for 12 years and is currently the group’s oldest active member.

Her secret for a happy, successful retirement is simple: you’ve just got to keep yourself busy. “Music is my life,” says Sands. “And I’m not slowing down until I’m dead!” —K.O.

Silver Stars Musical Revue Society has been running since 1998. Today, 28 members over the age of 50 are part of the society, whose next scheduled production is on May 13. For more information, visit silverstarsrevue.com.

This may point to the self-employed having the flexibility to do what they want and continue working in their chosen field. On the flipside, the fact that public sector employees, who are the most likely to have pension plans, retire the earliest at 61.4, on average, may point to delayed retirement being more tied to financial security. Since the 1970s, the percentage of male employees who have registered pension plans through their employers has declined from more than half to about 37 per cent.

But even though many of us are working later in life, we’re also living longer, meaning that, overall, the actual number of years we spend in retirement is increasing.

In 1965, when the federal government introduced the Canada Pension Plan, a 65-year-old man could expect to live an additional 13.6 years, to the age of 78.6. By 2005, a 65-year-old male could expect to live to 82.8, and that is projected to increase to 89.3 by 2075. While past generations needed retirement savings that could see them into their late 70s, now retirement savings have to cover you into your 90s.

If you’re like the 86 per cent of Canadians 55 and over who say they are not willing to give up doing, achieving or acquiring anything in order to leave a larger inheritance for their kids, you may be able to afford to retire earlier. However, if you are in the same boat with the 19 per cent of Canadians 55 and over who are still supporting a child financially, well, then 70 may be the new 65 for you, too. —K.L.

HOUSING FOR SUCCESSFUL AGING A

pproximately 85 per cent of Canadians age 55 and over would prefer to stay in their current residence for as long as possible. However, the typical family home isn’t necessarily the best environment for aging adults.

At some point, most of us are no longer able to navigate stairways and bathtubs with ease, and even rugs and other furnishings can become hazards. Adding grab bars, ramps and specialized washrooms can give people a bit more time in their homes, but often at the expense of devaluing their greatest financial asset — their house — just when they need to cash it in.

“Most of the housing we live in isn’t suitable for people once they start to need that kind of environmental modification,” says John Brown, who is heading up a program at the University of Calgary’s Faculty of Environmental Design to develop and test a prefabricated laneway house designed for frail, aging adults. “What you get is this Hail Mary pass when mom or dad has a stroke, and then there’s a commode in the dining room and someone’s blown out the side wall of the bathroom. You’re devaluing the property. Quality of life goes down, stress goes up and it’s only a stop-gap measure.”

CLOCKWISE FROM RIGHT A rendering shows the prefabricated suite as it might look in a backyard. The layout of the home from above. The wall behind the bed can be easily modified to incorporate medical technologies such as a dialysis machine or oxygen. Towel racks double as grab bars and lighting in the toe kicks of the cabinets improve safety but can also blink to set the pace for a physio program.

Instead of that stop-gap, Brown and his team have envisioned a modular, pre-fabricated home for aging adults that can be adapted to integrate assistive elements like grab bars and medical technologies like oxygen and dialysis as needed, as well as home management, monitoring and sensors from local company Smart, working together to create a supportive environment.

This summer, Brown and his team will begin testing their laneway home design by having people live in the test suites for up to three months at a time. The test suites will be the third version of the project’s laneway home and the first to actually be installed in Calgary neighbourhoods.

Brown says the whole suite is basically a medical device that someone would live in — he compares it to a pair of glasses. “Eyeglasses are a medical device — they correct vision. But that’s not what we think when we buy them or why we wear them. I choose these because I think they look good on my face and because they express something about me,” he says. Brown envisions a time when we approach housing for aging seniors the same way — with necessary medical elements built in, but with

a design sensibility that aligns with how they want to express themselves.

Along with the idea that housing can be a medical device, the other big change in thinking put forth by this project is that the suite, which Brown refers to as a “supportive living unit,” could also be non-permanent and leased from the government or a non-profit instead of bought by individuals. “If you think of it instead as a device that you rent, like a wheelchair, you are no longer responsible for the upfront cost,” says Brown, who also notes that this brings with it important bylaw implications because the suites aren’t permanent. “The big shift is that it’s a medical device that you live in. It’s not a secondary suite.”

But he stresses that at this time, they are just testing. “I have to be careful what I say, because people get really excited,” he says. —K.L.

THE BEST-LAID PLANS W

e often hear that a large group of Canadians don’t have their retire ment finances figured out. So those who do have their budgets and savings in order, may believe their aging plan is finished. But too often retire ment plans either don’t contain enough specifics about what to do with one’s time and money, or haven’t taken into account all of the transitions that take place in aging, let alone backup plans.

“People fantasize about retirement,” says Luanne Whitmarsh, CEO of the Kerby Centre, a local non-profit that provides programs and support for seniors. “They don’t plan for the ‘what ifs’ — what if I get sick, what if my partner gets sick. And there’s a [feeling of] depression that sets in if things don’t pan out.”

Whitmarsh advises people to think about changes that may come with aging that would put some of their plans out of reach and consider how to adapt. For example, what are the destinations you can still travel to if your health or mobility change, or if you can no longer drive?

Candace Konnert, the head of the University of Calgary’s Healthy Aging Lab, agrees.

“Many people really don’t ever think about their own aging and are really taken aback by the changes that they are experiencing,” says Konnert. “People want to stay autonomous, they want to stay independent. To do that, they have to have a vision for how they want to age, what’s important to them, what their priorities are and how they are going to negotiate certain transitions in their life.”

Konnert spent many years working as a clinical psychologist with older people and families and saw first-hand what can happen when people don’t think about the what ifs of aging, such as what if they can no longer get their own groceries, or what if their friends and neighbours move away. “They were always in crisis mode,” she says of the clients she used to see who were often forced into nursing homes after a health problem. “What I’m trying to do now is to get people to think about the future so that they can make good choices and plan ahead.”

Konnert says that means giving sober thought to the transitions that come with aging and making choices ahead of time, instead of denying that aging means change. “It’s really about adaptation, selection and compensatory strategies,”

5 QUESTIONS TO ASK ABOUT AGING

Whether these are questions you ask your parents, your spouse or yourself, they should help spark a conversation.

she says. “You have to be more selective in what you choose to do. It may involve changing your goals a little bit and also thinking about, ‘Well, if I can’t do this, what can I do that will still give me a sense of being fulfilled and a sense of meaning and purpose?’”

Many people are worried about losing their independence as they age — often specifically associated with losing their drivers license or no longer being able to live in their own home. Some age-related changes are inevitable. We all eventually have a slower reaction time, move slower and can’t see as far, and these changes may affect how and where we can live and get around. But Konnert says maintaining a feeling of independence is less about where you live than it is about your ability to make choices for yourself. For example, choosing to stop driving and making a plan for how to get around may reinforce a feeling of independence rather than waiting for your license to be revoked, or worse, getting in an accident.

And some planning may actually help stave off the effects of aging and allow people to live independently for longer. Seniors who gets help to do their grocery shopping or house maintenance may be less likely to have a fall, for example, meaning they can stay in their home longer.

According to Konnert, strategies can involve everything from getting help around the house or for transportation, to creating new social networks, to changing where you live or changing how you think about those transitions. “There are many different ways you can exert those compensatory strategies and it might involve thinking about things differently,” says Konnert.

From Whitmarsh’s perspective, the first step is overcoming our fear of aging and giving older adults more voice.

“We need to empower people to talk about their needs,” says Whitmarsh, and that starts with admitting that we all age. —K.L.

1 3 5

What do you want to do with your time in early retirement and in later retirement?

2 4

What alternate plans might make you happy if your health or mobility is affected?

What is most important to you about where you want to live as you age?

(For example, think about the community and the type of home. Is it a single-family or a group-living situation?)

What strategies will help you live in your preferred space if other parts of your plan don’t work? (For example, if your health, mobility, finances or those of your spouse deteriorate.)

What is most important to you when it comes to living with autonomy and dignity, and what strategies can you put in place to help maintain those things?

The Healthy Aging Lab at the University of Calgary is undertaking a “Planning for the Future” study that will look at what people are doing to plan for aging. If you’re 50 or older and are interested in taking part, go to psych.ucalgary.ca/healthyaging.

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Photo credit: Allison Seto

BY Shelley Arnusch, Lisa Kadane, Megan Kopp, Andrew Penner, Gwendolyn Richards AND Lynda Sea

The Canadian government’s decision to make admission to National Parks free for 2017 as part of the country’s sesquicentennial celebrations is a particularly good thing for Calgarians. After all, the granddaddy of the entire parks system, Banff National Park, is practically our backyard, and there are several other mountain parks within a half day’s drive of here, offering a wealth of scenery to take in and terrain to explore. In and around the parks there are cool mountain towns, amazing alpine resorts, renowned restaurants and all manner of outdoor adventures to be had. There’s so much out there, it can be a bit overwhelming, which is why we’ve pinpointed some essential experiences, in the hope of inspiring your own summertime adventures in the mountains, whatever they may be.

Kananaskis Country

ESSENTIAL K-COUNTRY HIKE TO THE MOOSE MOUNTAIN FIRE LOOKOUT

There is something magical about lacing up your hiking boots and setting out through thick forest, which is how the trail to the Moose Mountain fire lookout starts. This 7.3-kilometre (one-way) day hike is a perennial favourite around these parts. Easily accessible from Calgary, the drive to the trailhead culminates in a short, steep section of gravel road that knocks off some of the elevation before you even begin.

The first sections of trail follow a circa-1950 fire road, which descends a water-troughed hill early on — bear in mind you’ll have to save your energy for the ascent on the return hike. The road then winds slowly upward through subalpine slopes that turn from forest to field. Early in the season, these grassy meadows offer a rainbow of floral delights, with brilliant red paintbrush, sky-blue forgetme-nots, pale yellow buttercups, purple hedysarum (occasionally dug up by passing grizzly bears), and white mountain avens, all tempting the inner plein-air artist to abandon the climb.

For those who do press on, the trail then switchbacks up to a false summit, levelling off briefly before the final section of steep single-track up the rocky face to the summit at 2,437 metres. The summit features an operational Alberta Forest Service lookout cabin (version 3.0, built in 1974) as well as a day-use shelter for hikers. Expect to see marmots soaking up the afternoon sun as you soak up the majestic westward views that extend deep into the heart of the Rockies. Don’t forget to add your signature to the guest register tucked in the mailbox at the base of the lookout’s porch. —M.K. albertaparks.ca

1. Calgary

2. Bragg Creek

3. Canmore

4. Banff

5. Lake Louise

6. Field

7. Golden

8. Radium

9. Invermere

10. Panorama

11. Kimberley

12. Cranbrook

13. Fernie

14. Waterton

Moose Mountain hike.

Kananaskis Country Banff National Park Yoho National Park

Kootenay National Park

Waterton Lakes National Park Provincial border Canada-U.S. border

BRITISH COLUMBIA ALBERTA

UNITED STATES

Moose Mountain photograph by Ricky Chin

MORE AMAZING EXPERIENCES IN K-COUNTRY

Soar over peaks and valleys in a helicopter

Setting out from a heli-pad at Morley Flats, Rockies Heli’s Kananaskis Country tour takes guests on a thrilling ride that includes a fly-by along a sheer rock face, climbing up and over a pass and dropping down to the Spray Lakes Valley. rockiesheli.com

Mountain bike in Greater Bragg Creek

Earn “Braggin’ Rights” or go

“Long Distance” on mountainbike trails that will take your breath away as you roll through this nearby wilderness recreation area. A network of sweet natural single track and an ever-growing list of purpose-built features make this a popular destination for Calgary’s off-road cycling community. —M.K. braggcreektrails.org

Raft the Kananaskis River

You’ll feel the invigorating spray of glacier-fed river water on your face when rubber meets rapid in this almost two-hour joyride (with inevitable water fights). Dare to dip all the way in before you head ashore at the Bow River junction. insideoutexperience.com

ESSENTIAL EATING THE TROUGH DINING COMPANY

Tucked away on an alley-like street off Canmore’s main drag, The Trough Dining Company could qualify as a hidden gem if not for the fact that this small and snug spot has a well-earned reputation in the local culinary scene.

Elevated comfort food — punctuated with fresh bread baked daily — warms the stomach and the soul. Head chef Zoey Zuppinger changes the menu to reflect the seasons, augmenting dishes in the summer and fall with ingredients bought at the nearby farmers’ market, but also keeping classic dishes (like the signature bruschetta with goat cheese, tomato and double-smoked bacon) on the menu.

That warmth and coziness translated in food form is also reflected in the compact space that features only nine tables and two seats at the wooden bar — an ideal spot to catch all the delicious scents spilling over from the open pass to the kitchen.

725 9 St., Canmore, 403-678-2820, thetrough.ca

Crazyweed

With an inviting space and dishes full of bold and punchy flavours that borrow the best from cuisines around the world (particularly south Asia), Crazyweed creates cravings that demand repeat visits.

Iron Goat Pub & Grill

An unparalleled view of Canmore’s iconic Three Sisters peaks — especially from the expansive patio — would be draw enough, but the extensive pub menu makes the vista that much more enjoyable.

STAY HERE Interlakes Campground

Remote, wild and lakeside in the heart of Peter Lougheed Provincial Park, the unserviced Interlakes Campground, situated perfectly near mountainside hiking and biking trails, fills up first and fast. —M.K. albertaparks.ca

1600 Railway Ave., Canmore, 403-609-2530, crazyweed.ca

The Grizzly Paw Pub and Brewing Company

With 21 years of pulling pints of micro-brewed beers and dishing up hearty fare that nods to its surroundings by offering creations with elk and bison, The Grizzly Paw is a Canmore institution, perfect for a post-hike gathering.

622 Main St., Canmore, 403678-9983, thegrizzlypaw.com

703 Benchlands Tr., Canmore, 403-609-0222, irongoat.ca

PD3 by Blake

The upper half of this vintage double-decker bus boasts seasonal fine dining, but equally fine is the lower take-out window, with its Asian-fusion tacos (think tempura prawns) and creative side dishes (so-called Seoul fries with nori and kimchee aioli for dipping). —G.R. 806 8 St., Canmore, 403-6094928, blakecanmore.com

Inside Out Experience tour along the Kananaskis River.

The Trough Dining Company.

Banff National Park

ESSENTIAL BANFF DO THE JOHNSTON CANYON WALK

The seven spectacular waterfalls that plunge into sapphire-blue pools of water on their churning path through Johnston Canyon have made this walk one of Banff National Park’s top attractions. Jaded locals may say that the canyon has become a tourist trap, but purely in terms of ROI (that’s “return on investment” for you non-financial types), there’s a substantial payoff for putting up with the throngs of selfie-stick-toting sightseers.

From the trailhead, a wide path leads to a series of staircases and catwalks that ascend into the narrow gorge. Along the way, multiple viewpoints provide photo ops of the fast-flowing water cascading from pool to pool and pouring over rock walls in an angry torrent. Almost equally impressive are the steel walkways that hug the limestone cliffs. These walkways, in places, are simultaneously suspended under sections of overhanging rock and over the turbulent water of Johnston Canyon Creek. The idea that danger lurks above and below certainly makes for an extra-thrilling experience.

The iconic 2.6-km trail to the Upper Falls — an engineering feat in itself — grants you access to a natural wonder that would otherwise be accessible only to hardcore rock climbers. The crowds thin out somewhat past the Lower Falls, as visitors who arrive by tour bus don’t usually have enough time (or stamina) to go the extra mile to the Upper Falls. You can avoid the crowds altogether by walking the trail in the

early morning, or by taking advantage of long summer daylight hours and strolling the path in the evening. Either way, the light will be better for taking photos, and your chance of spotting wildlife will increase.

The one downside of an evening hike, however, is that you may miss your chance for an après-hike soft-serve from the Johnston Canyon Resort’s ice-cream concession, which is only open from noon to 7 p.m. (May 15 to Oct. 4). For long-time Calgarians who have been doing the canyon since they were kids, it’s like the equivalent of getting a hot dog at Coney Island; in other words, foregoing a cone may not be up for discussion. —L.K.

johnstoncanyon.com

Photograph by Banff Lake Louise Tourism / Paul Zizka Photography

MORE AMAZING EXPERIENCES IN BANFF NATIONAL PARK Bag a peak via the Banff Gondola

Ride the four-person gondola to the top of Sulphur Mountain for the best view in town, then check out the brand new mountaintop interpretive centre that tells the story of Banff National Park. brewster.ca

Hit the links at the Springs

The stunning Stanley Thompsondesigned course at the Fairmont Banff Springs is on every duffer’s bucket list. Keep your eye out for resident elk and other wildlife while you’re driving balls toward the surrounding mountains. The

course opens for the 2017 season on May 12. banffspringsgolfclub.com

Take a cruise on Lake Minnewanka

Brewster Adventures’ popular lake cruises allow you to see the park from a different perspective. The 2017 tour season starts on May 12. brewster.ca

Visit Cave and Basin National Historic Site

The site of Banff’s original hot springs, which inspired the formation of Banff National Park, the Cave and Basin is now a National

Historic Site with a revamped interpretive centre and engaging community plaza.

pc.gc.ca/eng/lhn-nhs/ab/ caveandbasin/index.asp

Experience really -lateseason spring-skiing at Sunshine Village

Sunshine is famous for staying open long after other ski resorts have shut down for the season. This year, you can carve turns in slushy corn snow, drink aprèsski beers on the sunny Trappers patio and admire bluebird views of the Continental Divide through May 22. —L.K. skibanff.com

STAY HERE Moose Hotel and Suites

New on the Banff scene, the Moose Hotel and Suites is conveniently close to the heart of town but still feels like an escape with its exclusive rooftop hot pools. The hotel’s sustainability initiatives include two charging stalls for Tesla automobiles. —S.A.

345 Banff Ave., Banff, 403-760-8570, moosehotelandsuites.com

Rooftop pool at the Moose Hotel and Suites in the heart of Banff.

Johnston Canyon, Banff National Park.

ESSENTIAL EATING IN BANFF BLOCK KITCHEN AND BAR

World cuisines collide in this eclectic little joint with an entrance just off Banff Avenue down Caribou Street. It’s a small space — line-ups are to be expected during high season — but the flavours are huge when it comes to the unusual dishes. Block’s menu draws inspiration from a range of global locales including Japan, India, Italy and Thailand and creates unexpected fusions, such as a simple sandwich made over as a “naanwich,” using the soft Indian bread as an edible folder around pork belly, vegetables, house-made pickles and spicy Asian sauces, or a flatbread topped with golden beets, tangy sumac and earthy za’atar. Wash it all down with something from the wine or beer list or, better yet, one of the creative, handcrafted cocktails that provide their own unexpected spins on tradition. —G.R.

Town Centre building, 201 Banff Ave., Banff, 403-985-2887, banffblock.com

FIVE MORE AMAZING PLACES TO EAT Eden

Harkening back to a bygone era of first-class train travel and finedining cars, Eden at the Rimrock Resort Hotel offers a refined experience with classic dishes expertly prepared, impeccable service and a spectacular view.

300 Mountain Ave., Banff, 403-762-1865, banffeden.com

The Grizzly House

The “lovers and hedonists” history and exotic menu items (shark, alligator, et al) are part of local lore, but the real reason Grizzly House (and its decor) have stuck around over six decades is the enduring appeal of its cheese, meat and chocolate fondues.

207 Banff Ave., Banff, 403-7624055, banffgrizzlyhouse.com

The Juniper Hotel Bistro

A well-curated menu featuring seasonal ingredients — some grown by the restaurant itself — keeps guests well fed no matter

Lake Louise

the time of day, while the wall of windows showcases the natural beauty of Banff and beyond.

1 Juniper Way, Banff, 403-762-2281, thejuniper.com

Nourish Bistro

In beef-crazy Alberta, Nourish offers up the unconventional: a completely vegetarian menu made up of sometimes surprising ingredient combinations — think nachos topped with everything from diced dill pickles to strawberries — that even a meat-eater can love.

110, 211 Bear St., Banff, 403760-3933, nourishbistro.com

Waldhaus Restaurant

Literally translated as “house in the forest,” this cottage-style building set behind the Fairmont Banff Springs offers Germaninfluenced cuisine (schnitzel, spätzle and fondue) in a rustic and cozy space. —G.R.

405 Spray Ave., Banff, 403-7622211, fairmont.com/banff-springs

ESSENTIAL LAKE LOUISE GO TEA HOUSE TOURING ON THE HIGHLINE TRAIL

Ask any hiker and they’ll tell you it’s best to have a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow — something to keep you motivated when the trail gets steep and the going gets tough.

Sitting on the larch-lined shore of an idyllic little lake, the Lake Agnes Tea House near Lake Louise is the perfect payoff. For that matter, so is the nearby Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House.

Both of these historic teahouses, privately owned and operated, are moderate half- or full-day (if you linger, which you will) hikes, easily accessible from the trailhead near the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. From the public parking lot by the hotel, it’s 3.5 km (one way) to Lake Agnes and 5.4 km (one way) to the Plain of Six Glaciers. Or, if you’ve got the gait, you can do what’s known as “The Tea House Challenge” and hike to both in one long day. This 14.6 km circuit via the incredibly scenic Highline Trail, traverses flower-filled slopes at the south end of the lake.

What the teahouses lack in electricity, they make up for in rustic charm, delicious treats (the chocolate cake at Plain of Six is killer good and the homemade hummus sandwiches at Lake Agnes are delish) and, yes, tea, steeped in a gorgeous setting. —A.P. banfflakelouise.com/hiking/tea-houses

Block Kitchen and Bar.

Photograph by Banff Lake Louise Tourism/Paul Zizka Photography

MORE AMAZING EXPERIENCES IN LAKE LOUISE

Canoe the waters of Lake Louise

You don’t have to be a guest of the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise to rent one of the red canoes from the hotel boathouse. Feel extra Canadian as you glide lazily across the turquoise-blue water and enjoy striking views of the Victoria Glacier from below. fairmont.com/lake-louise

Explore on horseback

Timberline Tours, located near the Deer Lodge, offers a half-day trail ride up to the “Little Beehive” rock formation overlooking the lake that is suitable for all levels of riders. Brewster Adventures also offers summer trail rides in the area. timberlinetours.ca; brewsteradventures.com

Ride the Lake Louise Ski Resort gondola

Summer offers a different perspective on the terrain at Lake Louise Ski Resort and a view like no other from the top.—S.A. skilouise.com

ESSENTIAL EATING Alpine Social

The Glacier Saloon in the lower level of the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise received a muchneeded update last fall and has re-launched as Alpine Social. Along with the new look, there’s a new menu of elevated pub-fare that includes items like duck confit and slow-braised pork belly.

111 Lake Louise Dr., Lake Louise, 403-522-3511, thealpinesocial.com

Deer Lodge

Part of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Resorts group, the historic Deer Lodge plays off its rustic-alpine vibe, offering game meats and other hearty dishes in its Mount Fairview Dining Room. You can also partake in afternoon tea in the Caribou Lounge, located in the original log-cabin tea house that dates back to 1923.

109 Lake Louise Dr., Lake Louise, 403-522-3991, crmr.com/deer

Whitehorn Bistro

There are views. And then there are views, like the one from the expansive patio of the contemporary mid-mountain restaurant at Lake Louise Ski Resort. That view comes with a menu that includes Ocean Wise seafood, cheese fondue for two, and a daily crème brûlée with fresh berries. —S.A. 1 Whitehorn Rd, Lake Louise, 403-522-1310, skilouise.com

STAY HERE Post Hotel Cabins

Tucked in behind the main hotel alongside the Pipestone River, the Post Hotel’s guest cabins offer the best of both worlds — rustic log cabins with Relais & Châteaux hospitality. Originally built in 1942, the four modernized cabins all have wood-burning river-stone fireplaces — even the cozy Whitehorn and Fairview cabins, which measure just 210 and 280 square feet, respectively. Cabin guests can relax in riverside lounge chairs or enjoy the full range of hotel amenities, including the library, saltwater pool and spa. —S.A. 200 Pipestone Rd., Lake Louise, 403-522-3989, posthotel.com

Lake Agnes Tea House, Lake Louise.

Alpine Social at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.

The Pipestone cabin at the Post Hotel in Lake Louise.

by Michael Soroka/Post Hotel and Spa

Yoho National Park and Golden, B.C.

ESSENTIAL YOHO SEE ANCIENT LIFE FORMS IN THE BURGESS SHALE

Stunning 360-degree views of snow-capped mountains, glaciers, turquoise lakes and wild forests seem par for the course when it comes to hiking in the Canadian Rockies. But imagine also getting to explore the origins of animal life on Earth with 500 million-year-old fossils. This is the beauty of hiking the Burgess Shale in Yoho National Park.

Exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site is certainly one of the most memorable experiences you can have. Some of the oldest Cambrian fossils in the world are tucked high on a mountain ridge above the tiny town of Field, B.C., east of Golden. These “stone bugs” are imprints of alien-like, soft-bodied creatures, so well preserved in the shale that, in some fossils, scientists have even been able to make out digestive tracts.

The 22-km round-trip hike, which begins at magnificent Takakkaw Falls and ends at Walcott Quarry, 2,040 metres above sea level, is like a walk through time. At the top, you can even go fossil-hunting yourself — overturn the right slab of rock and you’ll find trilobites and other fossils of prehistoric marine life, sometimes no larger than a dime.

The steep and strenuous all-day hike climbs past the Yoho Lake backcountry campground, then up and over the side of Mount Wapta with epic views of the President Range glaciers and the jade waters of Emerald Lake below. Even if you’re not a rock nerd, this hike is a fascinating ancient-history lesson and a workout in one.

Limestone rubble and carbonate rocks with alternating light and dark bands, along with the ever-present shale, offer windows to the past. And there’s also something mind-blowing in the geological wonder of encountering specimens that used to live on the ocean floor, only you’re handling them at the top of mountains, millions of years later.

Access to the Burgess Shale fossil beds is restricted to guided hikes only. Book a tour with the Burgess Shale Geoscience Foundation, which guides groups of 12 to the Walcott Quarry for $126 per person (private group tours can also be arranged), July through September. —L.S. burgess-shale.bc.ca/walcott-quarry

THREE MORE AMAZING EXPERIENCES Climb Via Ferrata at Kicking Horse Resort

There is a whole range of adventure activities in Kicking Horse Resort’s summer programming, but the showstopper is Via Ferrata, a fusion of high-alpine hiking and rock-climbing aided by iron handholds, ladders and suspension bridges. kickinghorseresort.com

Camp at Lake O’Hara

This is, arguably, one of the most lovely and breathtaking places in the whole Parks Canada system, so scoring one of the 30 sites at Lake O’Hara in Yoho National Park is like winning the golden ticket of camping. pc.gc.ca/eng/pn-np/bc/yoho/ natcul/ohara.aspx

Dare to go tandem paragliding

It takes a special breed of thrill seeker to try paragliding, but if you’re ready and willing, (and weigh under the 225-pound maximum) the experienced gliders at Altitude Adventures in Golden will take you out on a 20-minute flight. —S.A. altitudeadventures.ca

Burgess Shale fossil beds in Yoho National Park.

Kicking Horse Via Ferrata suspension bridge.

Burgess Shale photograph courtesy of Tourism Golden; Kicking Horse photograph courtesy of RCR/Kicking Horse Mountain Resort

Paragliding with Altitude Adventures.

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ESSENTIAL EATING TRUFFLE PIGS BISTRO

The town of Field in Yoho National Park, has a population of less than 170 people, so you certainly can’t miss Truffle Pigs Bistro — nor will you want to. After crossing the railroad tracks into town, just keep going until you see the blue lodge overlooking the Kicking Horse River valley.

There’s a cheekiness to the decor — the colourful ceramic flying pigs hanging from the rafters — and in chef Everett Cooper’s creative dishes. A focus on fresh ingredients keeps the menu changing seasonally. Examples of his signature fare include togarashi fried chicken and pork tenderloin piccata with black-pepper spätzle.

Whatever you decide to order, this is the kind of place where you’ll find yourself lingering with friends on the patio with a pint of B.C. ale, long after you’ve pigged out. —L.S. 100 Center St., Field, 250-343-6303 (no reservations), trufflepigs.com

THREE MORE AMAZING PLACES TO EAT

Cedar House

Located on a tranquil 10-acre spread just south of the town of Golden, the menu here is focused around elegantly plated preparations of B.C. produce, sustainable seafoods and ethically raised meats.

735 Hefti Rd., Golden, 250-3444679, cedarhousechalets.com

Eagle’s Eye Restaurant

You can’t mention dining in Golden without mentioning the restaurant at the top of Kicking Horse Resort. Perched at 7,700 feet, eating

here comes with exceptional views, and the added thrill of a gondola ride.

1500 Kicking Horse Trail, Golden, 250-439-5553, kickinghorseresort.com

Whitetooth Mountain Bistro

Located in the heart of Golden, you can do a leisurely breakfast here until 2 p.m. daily with a range of Bennies or confit duck and waffles with bourbon maple syrup and basil crème fraîche. —S.A 427 9 Ave. N., Golden, 250-3445120, whitetoothbistro.com

STAY HERE Emerald Lake Lodge

Overnighting in Yoho National Park means choosing from a variety of guesthouses, cabins, B&Bs and campgrounds to stay at, but nothing beats the world-famous Emerald Lake Lodge. The Canadian Rocky Mountain Resorts-owned property was originally constructed in 1902 and features 24 cabin-style rooms off the main lodge on the shores of Emerald Lake. The rooms have no TVs or Internet and limited cellphone reception, but it’s no matter. While the surreal turquoise hue of the lake and the stunning backdrop of the Rockies are Instagram-worthy from every angle, to best experience the lodge you’ll want to truly disconnect and immerse yourself in nature without any distractions. —L.S.

1 Emerald Lake Rd., Yoho National Park, 250-343-6321, crmr.com/emerald

Emerald Lake Lodge.

Togarashi fried chicken at Truffle Pigs Bistro in Field, B.C.

Emerald Lake Lodge photographs by Jason Dziver

Fernie and Kimberley, B.C.

ESSENTIAL KIMBERLEY RIDE THE ROUND THE MOUNTAIN TRAIL

People in this cool, outdoorsy Kootenay town are crazy about their mountain biking. The trail of choice for cross-country enthusiasts these days? That would be “Round the Mountain,” an epic 20-km grunt-fest that meanders around North Star Mountain on sweet single track. The trail, which is rated “moderate” or “blue” in terms of difficulty, serves up stunning views of the St. Mary River Valley and the Matthew Creek Watershed.

Accessible from the Kimberley Nordic Centre, Round the Mountain’s lofty status is firmly etched into the local culture thanks, in part, to the annual Round the Mountain Festival. The one-day, family-friendly celebration (mark June 25, 2017, on your calendar), hosted by the Kootenay Orienteering Club, the Kimberley Trails Society and the Kootenay Freewheelers’ Cycling Club, incorporates seven different “challenges,” including running, trekking, and kid-only races. The party typically migrates from there to the popular eatery Pedal & Tap and its sister watering hole The Shed in the evening hours, where you can join local cyclists spinning yarns until closing time. —A.P. roundthemountain.ca

THREE MORE AMAZING EXPERIENCES Take the Fernie Heritage Walking Tour

Historic downtown Fernie is loaded with character, and one of the coolest ways to experience it is to take the self-guided Heritage Walking Tour. Featuring a number of architectural styles and influences, the many brick and sandstone structures that grace the downtown streets all have stories to tell (many that date back to the massive fire in 1908 that wiped out much of the town). Heritage Tour guidebooks are available at the Fernie Visitor Centre within the Fernie Museum. 491 2 Ave., Fernie, 250-4237016, ferniemuseum.com

Catch cutthroats with Kimberley Fly-Fishing

Many fly-fishing connoisseurs consider The St. Mary River the crème de la crème for cutthroat fishing in North America. The guided drift boat adventure on the St. Mary with Kimberley Fly Fishing has you battling belligerent little beasts

all morning before beaching on a remote, rock-lined shore for a big lunch. You’ll need the energy for the non-stop action in the afternoon — daily hit counts can get into the hundreds on this river! 220 Ross St., Kimberley, 250-427-2278, kimberleyflyfishing.com

Play an alpine 18 at Trickle Creek

Tumbling through the trees at the base of North Star Mountain near Kimberley Alpine Resort, the thrilling layout at the Trickle Creek Golf Resort epitomizes the mountain golf genre to a tee. Daring, gofor-broke holes plunge down the mountainside and the views are nothing short of jaw-dropping. After golf, tally the scores and sip suds on the sunny outdoor patio and heckle the rest of your party as they putt out on the 18th green across the pond. —A.P. 500 Gerry Sorensen Way, Kimberley, 1-888-874-2553, tricklecreek.com

ABOVE

The Round the Mountain trail at the Kimberley Nordic Centre.

RIGHT Racers at the annual Round The Mountain Festival.

BOTTOM RIGHT Fly Fishing on the St. Mary River.

Top Kimberley photograph by Pat Bates courtesy of Kootenay Rockies Tourism; Kimberley Fly-Fishing photograph by Andrew Penner courtesy of Kootenany Rockies Tourism

ESSENTIAL EATING THE TANDOOR AND GRILL

Forget for a moment that you’re sitting in a hotel restaurant in a mountain town. Forget even that you’re in Canada. It won’t be hard once the plates of fragrant Indian food are set down on the table at The Tandoor and Grill in Fernie’s Stanford Hotel (the one with the waterslide). Conventional North American fare like mozzarella sticks and hot wings are also available here, but scan down the menu to where this restaurant shines: traditional Indian dishes such as lamb korma and butter chicken, samosas stuffed with po tatoes and peas and crispy-edged pakora. Meats are cooked in the restaurant’s blazing-hot tandoor oven for that perfect hint of char, or slow-simmered in aromatic and complex curries, leaving them tender and pleasantly infused with cumin, cloves, turmeric and other spices. The dishes are a riot of colour and flavour and simply, but beautifully, garnished with fresh herbs. Be sure to order lots of fluffy naan to swipe the last bits of sauce from the plate. — 100 Riverside Way, Fernie, 250-423-5000, ferniestanfordresort.com

STAY HERE 901 Fernie

THREE MORE AMAZING PLACES TO EAT The Heid Out Restaurant and Brewhouse

Located between Fernie and Kimberley, Cranbrook is often overshadowed by its resortendowed neighbours — except when it comes to brewpubs. The Heid Out in downtown Cranbrook (named for owner Heidi Romlich) bolsters its brewed-on-site beer selection with a beyond-pub-grub menu of crave-worthy items.

You’ll find Yorkshire puddings stuffed with shaved AAA Alberta beef and a tangy horseradish aioli, charcuterie boards and a signature “beeramisu” — a cheeky play on the traditional Italian dessert that uses the Heid Out’s house-brewed porter to soak the ladyfingers.

821 Baker St., Cranbrook, 250-426-7922, theheidout.ca

The Loaf

Part bakery, part casual restaurant, The Loaf has all the warmth and coziness of a neighbourhood local with an extensive menu of scratch-made pizzas, sandwiches and a lineup of entrees such as roast chicken and lamb shank. It’s licensed as well, so you can enjoy a glass of wine or locally brewed beer as you snack on the fresh-baked artisan bread.

641 2 Ave. Fernie, 250-423-7702, theloaf.ca

Yamagoya Sushi

Traditional maki sushi as well as more adventurous offerings — a signature Fernie roll which wraps together tuna, tempura, kimchee and green onion — put this little Japa-joint on the map and keep it hopping busy.—G.R. 741 7 Ave., Fernie, 250-430-0090

the units feature loft-inspired design elements such as 16foot ceilings, hardwood floors and oversize windows to make the most of the surrounding alpine views, while the independently operated, on-site

Spa 901 has a range of beauty and body treatments, as well as infrared saunas and an outdoor hot pool. —S.A. 901 2 Ave., Fernie, 250-423-2077, ferniecentralreservations.com, spa901.ca

For luxurious accommodations with a side of local history, 901 Fernie offers two-, three- and five-bedroom condos in a restored 1908 brick building that was once the town’s high school. Located in the heart of Fernie, 901

The Tandoor and Grill in Fernie, B.C.

901 Fernie.

WHAT COULD BE YOUR BASECAMP FOR ADVENTURE

IMAGINE waking up to the stunning view of the Canadian Rockies from your front window. Through each spectacular season, various outdoor activities provide the opportunity to experience new vistas and make personal discoveries. From hiking in the backcountry to strolling the quaint streets of Canmore, the spirit of adventure is ever-present.

Limited single and multi-family residential home sites have been released in Three Sisters Mountain Village (TSMV) in Canmore, adjacent to the spectacular Stewart Creek Golf Course. The Stewart Creek Phase 3 development presents a rare opportunity to purchase a home in a community on the doorstep of the wilderness.

Kootenay National Park and Panorama Mountain Village, B.C.

ESSENTIAL PANORAMA EXPLORE THE ALPINE ON AN ATV

True, Toby Creek Adventures in Panorama — a familyowned tour company selling high-in-the-alpine snowmobile adventures in winter and ATV tours in summer — did not coin the phrase, “We’ll sell you the whole seat, but you’ll only need the edge.” However, (cheese-factor aside) the slogan could definitely work for all of the half-, full-, and multi-day trips offered by this outfitter.

Without a doubt, Toby Creek’s most popular summer ATV trip is the Paradise Mine Half-Day Tour. The thrilling three-hour trip starts at the Adventure Centre near the village, zigzags up the mountain on a historic jeep trail, and ends in a breathtaking, snow-smeared alpine bowl where a ramshackle gold- and silvermining town once clung to the mountainside. While most of the buildings are long gone, rusty ruins of the mining operations are still scattered around the hillsides. But ask anyone who has been there and they’ll tell you the surreal beauty of this majestic alpine setting is the star of the show — well, that and cookies and coffee in the cozy cabin perched on the rocky ridge.

The best part? Tour participants don’t need prior ATV experience. Thanks to side-by-side Wildcat UTVs, the learning curve is minimal. Basically, if you can drive a car you can drive a side-byside (two- and four-seaters are available, as well as traditional fourwheel ATVs). Regardless of which vehicle you choose, cruising through the creek beds, swerving through S-turns and spinning around on the ridge-tops high above Panorama Mountain Village will put you, well, on the edge of your seat. —A.P. tobycreekadventures.com

ESSENTIAL EATING

Cabin Smokehouse

A new addition to the quaint Earl Grey Lodge at Panorama Mountain Village, this convivial space serves delicious sharing plates focused around meats prepared in the on-site smoker. They also make the world’s best potato skins topped with pulled pork, three cheeses and jalapenos.

2069 Summit Dr., Panorama, 250-341-3641, earlgreylodge.com

Cliffhanger Restaurant

This architecturally stunning room on the Greywolf golf course at Panorama, named for the course’s infamous “cliffhanger” hole, has giant windows to show off the surrounding scenery and a menu that features lighter fare during the daytime, then switches to grill-housestyle entrees for the evening.

1860 Greywolf Dr., Panorama, 250-341-4102, cliffhangerrestaurant.ca

Kicking Horse Café and Coffee

If you’re a fan of the Kicking Horse Coffee brand, you’ll want to make a pilgrimage to the company headquarters in Invermere. The production compound features a café where you can get barista drinks, sandwiches and pastries, as well as merchandise with cheeky references to the trademark “Kick Ass” blend. —S.A.

491 Arrow Rd., Invermere, 250342-3634, kickinghorsecoffee.com

Toby Creek Adventures ATV tour.

Kicking Horse Café photograph by Kari Medig

Cliffhanger Restaurant.

Kicking Horse Café and Coffee.

Relax at Radium Hot Springs and Pleiades Spa

This well-loved hot springs complex tucked into Sinclair Canyon in Kootenay National Park isn’t all about the pool. The accompanying spa offers massage and body-care treatments as well as Ayurvedic wellness and nutritional practices and yoga workshops. —S.A. pleiadesradiumspa.com

Waterton Lakes National Park

HIKE TO CRYPT LAKE

STAY HERE Nipika Mountain Resort

At Nipika, an eco resort in Kootenay National Park, you can go off-the-grid in style. No two solar-powered log cabins at Nipika are exactly alike, though all are cozy, private and comfortably appointed with a range of amenities that include stone fireplaces, full kitchens and outdoor barbecues. —S.A. 9200 Settlers Rd., Kootenay National Park, 250-342-6516, nipika.com

The challenging hike to Crypt Lake in Waterton Lakes National Park was named one of the world’s 20 most thrilling trails by National Geographic in 2014. That’s a lot of hype. However, when a day-long excursion into some of the country’s prettiest backcountry packs in a boat ride to the trailhead, a 175-metre-high waterfall, a dark crawl through a 12-metre-long natural mountain tunnel and a cable-assisted cliff traverse, the thrills — and the stunning scenery that makes it all worthwhile — are for real.

The 17.4-km round-trip trek gains 700 metres from the shore of Upper Waterton Lake to Crypt Lake, so called because it’s hidden away in an alpine bowl and surrounded on three sides by imposing cliff walls that form a sequestered sanctuary. Along the way you’ll pick berries, watch for wildlife (including grizzlies) and be blown

away by the beauty of the wildflowers, waterfalls and mountains. Not only will you relish the experience, you’ll have pushed yourself in the process, as this hike requires you to conquer your fear of heights, tight spaces, bears, darkness, or all of the above.

The Crypt Lake trail is usually hike-ready from mid-May through Thanksgiving weekend in October (call 403-859-2362 if you’re planning to hike in the early or late season to make sure the trail is open). A good move is to book the boat ride to the trailhead in advance online at watertoncruise.com/crypt-lake.php. Plan to go midweek for fewer crowds.

Afterward, enjoy a well-earned beer and refuel with a mouth-watering steak at the Lakeside Chophouse, ideally situated on the lake’s edge at the Bayshore Inn Resort & Spa. —L.K.

111 Waterton Ave., Waterton Lakes National Park, 403-859-2211, bayshoreinn.com; mywaterton.ca

The Crypt Lake hike in Waterton Lake National Park begins with a boat ride to the trailhead.

Radium photograph by Andrew Penner courtesy of Kootenary Rockies Tourism; Waterton Lakes photograph by Ricky Chin

ONE MORE AMAZING EXPERIENCE

Radium Hot Springs in Kootenay National Park.

Q&Astyle

BY Andrew Guilbert PHOTOGRAPHY BY Jason Eng STYLING BY Brendan Klem

Peter Feenstra & Kenny Kwan

The men’s-style-meets-custom-motorcycle shop Ill-Fated Kustoms + Tank is as distinctive as its owners, Peter Feenstra and Kenny Kwan. Vintage jewellery and antique collectibles share shelves with Italian motorbike helmets and imported men’s fashion magazines. Panelled windows separate the retail space from the garage, where lifts support custom bikes awaiting repair and completion.

The shop represents the coming together of like-minded individuals. When Feenstra was looking for a storefront for his company, Tank Designs, the complementary nature of Kwan’s Ill-Fated Kustoms made it a natural fit with which to share space, and Ill-Fated Kustoms + Tank (IFK-Tank) came to be.

Feenstra and Kwan are both bikers, a fact they wear on their fingers. The pair sport California-made Repop-MFG rings, a brand that recreates the large knuckle-dusters popular with bikers in the 1940s. “The rings are vintage-biker influenced, made in the same way, with peso silver or brass,” says Feenstra. “You used to buy them for five dollars in Mexico. Now, an authentic one is three- or four-hundred dollars.”

Though they each pay homage to biking’s past, their personal styles draw inspiration from a variety of eras. “We’re kind of like the bikes we build,” says Kwan. “We see something in our heads that will look good, we pick our parts and we fabricate the way we want it to look. We kind of build our outfits; you could say it’s a custom look.”

How would you describe each other’s style?

KK: Pete wears a lot of stuff that I’ve never seen, some higherend stuff, too. He’s got more of a Western touch. It’s not a hipster look, but he’s got his look for sure.

PF: I think [Kenny’s] style is similar to my style. We like our tailored jeans and shirts. We both like the same stuff, we’re all about the jewellery. I’d say Kenny has a similar style to mine, only younger.

How would you describe the aesthetic of your store?

KK: When customers walk in, they go, "Oh, we didn’t expect this." Your average bike shop doesn’t look like this. Now that we’ve joined forces, we’ve got a lot of joint inventory, so we fill the store up with different stuff.

PF: I collect a lot of this stuff. I’m a Sunday-morning flea marketer. I buy every Sunday morning and add it to the collection. I guess that’s why the shop is the way it is. Even the security bars: we wanted an old look, handcrafted in our style, so Kenny made them and I made the door.

(On Peter, left) Balenciaga jacket from Nordstrom in Seattle; RedWhiteBlue Co. T-shirt and Repop-MFG ring from IFK-TANK; jeans from Double RL in Los Angeles; Grok Leather bracelet (worn throughout) purchased in Japan; Steven Webster silver bracelet (worn throughout) from Maxfield’s Los Angeles; David Yurman rings (worn throughout) from Holt Renfrew.

(On Kenny) Engineered Garments shirt from Understudy; 511 jeans from Levi’s; Nixon watch from Spareparts; Tres Noir eyewear (worn throughout) and Repop-MFG ring (worn throughout) from IFK-TANK;

How would you describe your personal style?

Kenny Kwan: The look of the ’50s really caught my eye, so I take styling cues from that. Greaser style, some punk-rock influence and some Western dictates my style.

Peter Feenstra: I like stuff that’s just a little off. That’s why I like Vivienne Westwood. Two of my favourite shirts are highcollared with three buttons on the collar. Even my boots — I’m a Chelsea boot kind of guy, but I’ll go for something longer, narrower or something that’s just a little different.

What is your favourite item in the store?

PF: The Woolrich utility vest — love that thing. It’s kind of like a girdle; keeps me all tucked in.

KK: Our Ill-Fated hoodies, for sure. I wear [mine] on a daily basis.

Triumph ring (worn throughout) from Gypsy Leather in Australia.

The eclectic interior of IFK-Tank.

Peter Feenstra (left) and Kenny Kwan at IFK-Tank.

Who are your style icons?

PF: I take styling and life cues from Jeff Bridges because he’s been married since 1979, same wife, three kids. Maybe Jeff’s not [stylish] everyday, but when he’s wearing a suit on the red carpet he’s pretty hot, and I’m thinking, “Wow, I want to look like that when I’m 60-something years old.”

KK: I can’t say anyone in particular, but maybe a-few-years-back Johnny Cash, with his full-on Western suits and style. He was pretty sharp.

What’s your wardrobe’s MVP?

KK: I’d say my Levi’s 510s for sure, and Levi’s brand in general, their denim shirts and jackets. I wear my black one pretty often, even when it’s minus 30°C.

PF: My Dsquared2 denim shirt, Western style with the snaps. Love that thing, wear it to death.

Where do you like to shop around Calgary?

PF: Holt Renfrew and Understudy; they’re on my walk route. [My wife Sally and I] will go from our house in Mount Royal, walk to the coffee shop, walk over to Understudy, then to Holt Renfrew. It’s occasionally an expensive walk.

KK: North American Quality Purveyors. I mainly go there for shirts, but they have a lot of stuff that suits me. And Gravitypope for footwear.

How can people get involved in Calgary motorcycle culture?

PF: They can come to bike nights on Wednesdays, even if they don’t have a bike. We hang out here for a bit, talk shop and usually go for a short ride somewhere, to a bar or a restaurant.

KK: It’s a great experience of bike culture and community.

(On Kenny, left) Wings + Horns shirt from LESS17; Engineered Garments vest from Understudy; slim-fit pants from Dickies; boots from G-Star.

(On Peter) Engineered Garments jacket from Understudy; shirt from DSquared2 in London; jeans from Double RL in Paris; Dries Van Noten shoes from Gravitypope.

STYLE Q+A

LIGHTNING ROUND

What do you do?

KK: I was an engineer until 2015, but I’m fully committed now to using that skillset for what we do at Ill-Fated Kustoms + Tank.

PF: I’m a furniture maker who comes into the shop when I can. What did you want to do growing up?

KK: I was going to follow in my dad’s footsteps and be a carpenter. If I could have any job, it would be a Formula One driver.

PF: I was going to be a truck driver. My father was a truck driver, my uncles were truck drivers and my best friend in high school’s dad owned a trucking company. What are you listening to these days?

KK: Right now, I’m really into Shakey Graves.

PF: And I’m really into Alabama Shakes.

(On Kenny, left) Vintage Gitman shirt from LESS17; 511 jeans from Levi’s. (On Peter) Leather jacket from Lewis Leathers London; Belstaff jeans

Peter Feenstra with Peter the dog.

IFK-Tank.

What radio station is your car set to?

KK: Auxiliary, so that I can listen to Shakey Graves.

PF: CKUA or CJSW, depends on the program.

What are you reading now?

KK: Probably a motorcycle manual. That’s the only book I’ve opened in ages. I haven’t had much time to read.

PF: I’m reading the Bible — I’m in Old Testament right now.

What was your favourite read growing up?

KK: The Goosebumps books. I liked the covers mostly, because they were textured and it looked cool, but I’d get into the stories.

PF: CARtoons magazine. It was a comic book on cars that was all about hot rods, drag racing and motorcycles.

What’s your guilty pleasure?

KK: 7-Eleven hot dogs. 7-Eleven in particular because they have the chili and nacho cheese. It’s a great idea at first, but 20 minutes later ...

PF: Bread and cheese — two things I’m trying to cut down on — but I can’t stay away from Sidewalk Citizen. What’s your favourite locally made edible treat?

PF: Village Ice Cream; the Phil & Sebastian coffee flavour.

KK: Mine’s the Two Hills Earl Grey [from Village Ice Cream]. It’s subtle, but it has that distinct flavour of the tea and just the right amount of sweetness.

Biggest pet peeves?

KK: Inconsiderate people. Ignorant, arrogant people really dig at me.

PF: People paying debit at a coffee shop. This morning, I’m behind three girls that are together, and each one pays individually for her coffee. It’s like, “Really?”

What’s your drink of choice?

PF: Bourbon sour or a nice IPA.

KK: The barreled Manhattan from Highwood Distillers in High River. What’s your greatest extravagance?

PF: Travel.

KK: Completing custom bike builds. Fabricating everything, seeing the final product, and riding it. That’s the greatest part.

National Gallery Hop

Saturday May 13, 2017

11 - 5

ADAC Galleries across the country are opening their doors for a nationwide Gallery Hop!

Visit each Gallery and hear prominent artists and curators speak as well as wine + art pairings by Metrovino.

11:00

11:45

12:30

1:15

2:45

3:30

4:15

CULTURE

A LEXIS WOODLEY

“My dad is Caribbean and my mom is white Canadian. The best term to describe who I am is bi-racial. From a very early age, my hair was a problem — as a child I didn’t want to stand out, I wanted the flowing locks of my classmates. So every four to six weeks I got it chemically processed. In my 20s I realized that my hair practices weren’t in line with how I wanted to live. It was a huge transition. I did a lot of research online about curls and patterns and natural products. I learned that black hair is beautiful and versatile. I can wear it braided or cornrowed or twisted. Choosing to wear my hair in its natural state comes back to that place of deep self-acceptance. When you’re at peace and in love with your ancestry, it shows.”

FLIGHT ATTENDANT, DOULA, YOGA TEACHER.

NAZIFA RAHMAN

STUDENT AND COLOUR CONSULTANT AT SEPHORA.

“Being Bangladeshi 100 per cent influences who I am and how I present myself. When I was younger I was embarrassed to wear desi [traditional South Asian] clothes or when my mom would oil my hair, but as I grew up I realized that if we don’t hold on to our cultural traditions the next generation won’t experience any of it. The night before Eid, [a biannual Muslim holiday] we do henna. It’s meant to be beautiful and a celebration. ‘Eid’ means happy — when your hands are full of this beautiful art it automatically makes you happy and excited. Recently I’ve been practicing it on myself [shown on page 107]; I’m always trying to master the designs and also make it a little more modernized. I’m playing with thinner lines and less curved lines and playing with it in a really personal way.”

SAVANNA SPARVIER

2017 CALGARY STAMPEDE INDIAN PRINCESS.

“My mom is Blackfoot and Cree and my dad is Blackfoot, Italian and German. I embrace all of it. Blackfoot designs are very geometric and Cree people use a lot of flowers and floral designs; so, in my outfits you can see I’ve put in elements from both sides. When I’m dancing I’ll always wear my hair in braids. It’s something women in my culture have always done. When I’m dancing I also really love to paint my face. I’ve always felt like painting my face brings my outfit together and sets me apart from everyone else. I usually do red stripes or white dots. It’s something I’ve always loved about my tradition — I can paint my face and I immediately feel like I belong. It makes me feel beautiful. Wearing your whole regalia is not a costume, you’re not dressing like someone else, you’re showing a different side of who you are.”

Savanna Sparvier makeup courtesy of The Aria Studios

WISAM AHMAD

ARMANI COSMETICS ADVISOR AT HOLT RENFREW.

“I’m originally from Palestine and I was born in Jordan. I’ve always been interested in wearing the hijab. Wearing it makes me feel self-respect, respected, strong and responsible to my culture and religion. It’s a reminder every day to open a door for someone, to smile, to say thank you, and sorry and hello, to be kind. The way I dress, it is important and that’s why I do what I do with my hijab and my fashion. I have at least 30 different scarves. I always find new ways to style it. It’s like a hairstyle. I love to dress it up, but I keep it simple at work. I’ll wrap it around my neck and pin it, then I add a little bedazzle. By wearing a hijab I’m opening up my heart.”

BY Kait Kucy AND Ricky Zayshley

Local Finds

Northlore Goods

Northlore Goods owner Natassia Brazeau is dedicated to creating “rituals of self-care” that promote healing and nourishing. That has led her to source plant-based ingredients located near the banks of the South Saskatchewan River in Treaty 6 territory for her line of products. Take your skin cleansing routine to a higher level with the yarrow and lavender cleansing grains ($18).

If you’ve never cleansed with grains before, this is your reason to start. Finely ground poppy seeds, organic grains and wildcrafted botanicals gently exfoliate and brighten your skin. —K.K. northloregoods.com

Monsieur Watch Company

Locally designed timepieces are having a bit moment in Calgary, and Monsieur Watch Company is leading the trend with its sophisticated vintage style. The Kensington Watch ($229), with its gold stainlesssteel casing and sapphire crystal glass, is a piece that can live in your wardrobe for years to come, while the beautiful custom detailing and pure black leather strap make it trendy enough to wear now. A portion of the proceeds from every watch sold is donated to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. —K.K. monsieurwatchco.com

SIMPLE SPACES WINDOW CLEANER

I’m currently replacing big-box cleaning products with those sourced from local businesses — namely The Laundress from Lukes Drug Mart and the Common Good line from Fresh Laundry Co. But one of my all-time favourite local discoveries is the glass cleaner ($9) from Calgary-based Simple Spaces. It goes on super thick and wipes off to reveal the cleanest mirrors and windows I’ve ever seen. —R.Z.

Simple Spaces, 11550 40 St. S.E., 403-203-3333, simplespaces.ca

Milk Jar Candle Company

Breathe in; breathe out. If the air you’re breathing doesn’t smell heavenly, you need a Milk Jar Candle Company candle ($25). With seven candles available, including the white nectarine and pear-scented Sunnyside, the plumeria and lilac-scented Hawaii and the mahogany, firewood and pinescented Dandy (pictured), these 100-per-cent soy wax, wood-wick candles are highly coveted. Hand-poured in Calgary by Holly Singer, Milk Jar candles have quickly become a must-have item on every fragrance-loving Calgarian’s shopping list. —K.K

Various local retailers, including Outside the Shape, 1222 10 Ave. S.E., 403-540-9993, outsidetheshape.com; milkjar.ca

SPONSORED EVENT

10TH ANNUAL VINO FOR BAMBINOS FUNDRAISER

6:30 P.M. MAY 25, 2017

CALGARY ZOO

The Hayati Children’s Foundation is celebrating 10 years of success in supporting children locally and internationally. Make a difference by joining us for the 10th Annual Vino for Bambinos Fundraiser at 6:30 p.m. on May 25, 2017 at The Calgary Zoo. Tickets are on sale now for $125, 18+. Elevate the experience with exclusive VIP “Behind the Scenes” passes, these are no longer available to the public, and meet the Tigers or Giraffes!

www.hayatifoundation.ca/events | events@hayatifoundation.ca

Avenue is proud to support local initiatives in our community. Visit AvenueCalgary.com/events to find out more about upcoming events in the city.

Photo courtesy of DCPiX Photography

It Takes a Village

A Crossfield couple enlists local talent to build a western prairie home with east-coast flair.

BY Andrea Cox PHOTOGRAPHY BY Jared Sych

BEAUTIFUL DESIGN

The design inspiration for Liz and Calvin Helfrich’s dream home all began with a trip to Charlottetown, P.E.I. for a wedding. “We stayed in this charming old inn called Sutherland House,” recalls Liz.

For the empty nesters, it was love at first sight. “The design incorporated everything we wanted,” Liz says. “I wanted an older-style two-storey home. Calvin wanted a wrap-around porch. So we snapped a photo and literally went from there.”

The couple returned home to the quaint town of Crossfield, 50 kilometres north of Calgary, and had drawings made from the photograph. They already had the site, having purchased a 100foot-wide lot on a pretty tree-lined street 10 years prior. Armed with a set of drawings and a strong vision, the couple hired Calgary-based Heather Draper, principal designer and creative director at The Heather Company, to assist with the interior spaces.

After checking out the site and getting a feel for what the Helfriches wanted, Draper rejigged the floor plan, adding a pantry, a mudroom

and a laundry room. She also vaulted the main-floor great-room ceiling, designed a professional-calibre kitchen and sketched beautiful millwork throughout.

Draper chose finishes for the home that presented an air of elegance — marble; leathered granite; wide-planked, oiled, brushed-oak flooring; textured porcelain tile; grasscloth wall coverings; white-lacquered wood panelling — and old-world details such as plinth blocks, transoms and cornices. “I wanted the home to have this sense of eclecticness, like it could have been built over time and it could have been here for 100 years,” says Draper.

Draper also custom-designed and sourced most of the furnishings from her South Calgary store, The Heather Company. “It’s really all about mixing the materials and layering the elements. It’s like unwrapping a present,” she says.

“When I first met Heather she said to me, ‘I believe great design does not overwhelm, but speaks softly to those who listen,’” says Liz. “At the time I didn’t fully understand what she was saying, but now I do: this house whispers great design in every room.”

The homeowners play with interior designer Heather Draper’s daughter in the sun-splashed open kitchen, which features custom-made cabinetry by local Crossfield artisans.

The living room is a hub for the family and features multiple layers of textiles, materials and finishes — hallmarks of interior designer Heather Draper’s approach.

KEEPING IT LOCAL

For the Helfriches, Crossfield is home. They raised their family here and are prominent members of the business community (they owned the local KalTire as well as the KalTire in nearby Airdrie and are now property developers in the area). When they became empty nesters two years ago, the couple set out to build a home for the next phase of life, a place where the entire family could gather for celebratory events and holiday meals. “We dreamed of having our kids and the grandkids home, and lots of family and friends,” says Liz.

When it came time to set the plan in motion, the couple wanted to fuel the local economy. “For us, it was really important to hire local people,” says Calvin, who recruited his brother, owner of Helfrich Construction, to build the home.

Luckily, as the Helfriches already knew, Crossfield is a hotbed of creativity and high-quality craftsmanship. The custom

millwork, the architectural hood fan and kitchen cabinetry were created four blocks away at C3 Crossfield Custom Cabinets.

“Heather just drew something on AutoCAD, blew it up, took a screen shot and [C3] manufactured it all,” says Calvin. Electricians, plumbers, drywallers and stonemasons were all sourced within a two-km radius. “Because we had the tire business here for 35 years, we knew all of the trades,” says Calvin. “That made it really easy.”

In fact, Draper was the only one working on the project from Calgary. “The process for me was about referencing the location,” she says. “We are in rural Alberta, and I wanted to be mindful of balancing the feel of a comfortable rural home with elegance.”

RIGHT In the dining room, a custom-designed fumed oak harvest table creates a rustic feel. The vaulted ceiling is clad in whitewashed planking, giving the room a warm and welcoming feel.

THE ULTIMATE MAN CAVE

Liz’s top priority for the design of the home focused around the kitchen and the open greatroom spaces. But for Calvin, whose passion revolves around cars, a space to hang with the guys, and tinker with his “toys” was paramount, especially after the sale of his two KalTire shops.

To achieve this, Draper created two distinct spaces for Calvin, adding an old-world brick fireplace, leathered granite bar and games room to the lower level of the home, and creating the ultimate “guy space” — a 2,500-square-foot, stand-alone garage with two hoists, a granite bar with aluminum slot wall backsplash and heated polished-concrete floors.

Here, Calvin proudly stores and works on his two babies: a 1969 GTO Convertible and a 1969 Chevelle SS. “I spend most of my spare time out

here putzing around,” he says, gesturing to his “toys,” which include a snowmobile and refurbished circa 1969 dirt bike, and his tools. The walls are adorned with neon signs, posters and fun kitsch collected over the years at drag races, show-and-shines and through the tire business.

“I asked Calvin to lay [his collectibles] all out on the floor of the garage and when I came to look at them, I don’t think that I was mentally prepared — there were just so many. It took three full days to put them all up and we still aren’t done,” says Draper.

A tray ceiling adds architectural detail, as does a brick wall and four skylights. One of the walls opens to the backyard outdoor living space (perfect for summer barbecues) while three floor-to-ceiling bay-style garage doors open to the heated stone-tiled driveway. No shovelling required.

TOP The 2,000-square-foot garage is the ultimate man-cave with its built-in bar, heated floors, and brick finishes.

ABOVE Vintage cars — including a 1969 GTO Convertible and a 1969 Chevelle SS — take centre stage in the garage.

DECOR

HEATHER DRAPER SHARES FIVE TIPS ON HOW TO GIVE A BRAND-NEW HOME A LIVED-IN LOOK.

1. Vary window treatments. While a uniform approach is easy, layered window treatments that meet the needs of the rooms — from beautiful flowing drapes in social rooms to black-out blinds in bedrooms — create personality in each separate space.

2. Add architectural millwork. Millwork elevates interior spaces, giving a home a timeless look, plus it gives a wall extra protection and durability in high traffic areas like staircases and mudrooms.

3. Mix up the furnishings. Nothing screams “new house!” like furniture that looks like it just walked off the showroom floor. A mix of styles and fabrics is key to curating a space that feels collected over time. Consider reworking existing pieces with new upholstery and a coat of stain or paint.

4. Turn on the lights. An array of lighting styles steps up a home’s ambiance and completes the design picture. Hang stunning fixtures in unexpected places like bedrooms and hallways to tie everything together.

5. Make it your own. Create spaces in the home to artfully showcase family photos, col lections or hobbies. Just re member the age-old adage of less is more. Practice restraint and think creatively.

ABOVE The main-floor master bedroom exudes a sense of peace and calm. A crystal chandelier from Restoration Hardware sets an elegant tone.

LEFT A free-standing tub anchors the master bathroom. Brushed stone countertops and a stunning fixture from Hudson Valley complete the look.

BELOW LEFT In the mudroom, honed marble counters offer lots of space, while built-in drying racks on the far wall make laundry a snap.

BELOW The upstairs flex space is a favourite spot to relax and hang out.

THE SOURCE

DECOR PAGES 140 TO 144

Lighting, custom drapery, cushions, custom furniture and flooring throughout from The Heather Company 2711 14 Ave. S.W., 403-474-5852, theheatherco.com

Plumbing fixtures throughout from Robinson Lighting & Bath Centre 4120 Blackfoot Tr. S.E., 403-245-8637, robinsonlightingandbath.com

Custom millwork throughout by C3 Crossfield Custom Cabinets crossfieldcabinets.com

Hardware and mirrors throughout from Banbury Lane 1301 10 Ave. S.W., 403-244-0038, banburylane.com

Decor accessories and baskets throughout from HomeSense various Calgary locations, homesense.ca

Appliances throughout from Trail Appliances 2745 29 St. N.E., 403-250-2818, and two other Calgary locations, trailappliances.com

Countertops in kitchen, bathroom and laundry room from Stone Selection 1240 26 Ave. S.E., 403-214-2363, stoneselection.ca

Paint throughout from C2 Paint c2paint.com

Hanging lights in living room and master bedroom from Restoration Hardware Southcentre, 403-271-2122, restorationhardware.com

Area rugs in living room, loft and master bedroom from Colin Campbell colin-campbell.ca

Painting in living room by Rosanna Marmont rosannamarmont.com

Lighting in garage from Rona various Calgary locations, rona.ca

Tub in master bathroom by Victoria and Albert vandabaths.com

Tiles in laundry room from Tierra Sol Ceramic Tile 5746 Burleigh Cres. S.E., 403-259-3467, tierrasol.ca

The lower-level entertainment room includes a pool table and a bar.

CURATED BY Katherine Ylitalo

The Heart’s Prayer

for order from chaos and action from order

Chelsea Rushton’s delicate painting reveals a narrative that reads from left to right. A dark energy, perhaps grief, loss, confusion, pierces a rosy heart infused with a fine network of gold veins. It emerges as an emotional bubble, a void teeming with gold and iridescent purple particles that reach a tiny half moon and then find their way into the light.

Rushton gains inspiration for her images through meditation. She draws and paints with a light touch while the vision is fresh. Using graphite and gouache, she achieves intense hues and a range of effects from opacity to transparency that echo her understanding of movement between the everyday and the inner world.

This image is a precursor to Rushton’s project in the Lightbox Studio in Arts Commons called Sankalpa Centre for Dreams and Visions. There, she has created an atmospheric exhibition of paper lanterns in a show and open studio that runs until May 28, 2017.

Rushton is a recent MFA graduate of the University of Calgary who holds an undergraduate degree in creative writing from the University of Victoria. The Lightbox program is an excellent opportunity to learn more about her process, as she will offer workshops to help participants use meditation and rest to generate new ideas. The Lightbox Studio promotes studiobased works and gives audiences a literal window into the work or participating artists.

TITLE: The Heart’s Prayer for order from chaos and action from order, 2016

ARTIST: Chelsea Rushton

MEDIUM: Gouache and graphite on Arches

watercolour paper.

SIZE: 12 inches x 16 inches

LOCATION: Lightbox Studio, Arts Commons (beside the Martha Cohen Theatre).

Image supplied by Chelsea Rushton

Traveler. Outdoor collection, design Stephen Burks.