Modern Living

FALL 2013
Modern Living
BRIAN GLUCKSTEIN
ON CONDO DECORATING
MARC SALTZMAN
TALKS EBOOK READER
OR TABLET?
INTERVIEW WITH CELEBRITY
CHEF LYNN CRAWFORD
MARKET INFO, NEIGHBOURHOOD CULTURE, TRAVEL AND ART
© CaMBRia 2013
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FROM THE EDITOR
DESIGN ISSUE
FABULOUS FALL
F
all is a fantastic time of the year
in our beautiful city of Toronto.
There is a buzz in the air, friends
and family are returning from
cottage country and summer vacations,
students of all ages are heading back to
school, fall festivals are in abundance
and our own TIFF is about to hit the
ground running.
This issue marks our formal
media launch and we couldn’t be more
excited. The support and feedback
following our Premiere Spring Issue
was overwhelming and I would like to
extend my sincere gratitude for all of the
emails we received.
With this being our Design Issue,
we are so excited to have the charming and affable, Brian
Gluckstein on our cover, Toby Saltzman caught up with
the accomplished designer to find out what is new and
exciting in his world. We have a beautiful photo layout
of his work at Mizrahi Development’s, 181 Davenport
showroom. We also bring to our pages a sumptuous
New York loft renovation and design by Toronto
designer Sabrina Balsky; it is always nice to see style
and design ideas from other great cities. Staying true to
our title, we want to bring our condo dwellers the best
in modern living ideas by showcasing condos, lofts and
townhouses that are interesting and different. We have
some fantastic builders in the GTA, whose innovative
thinking and commitment to our communities has
helped to propel the GTA into a great place to live, with
many different neighbourhoods to select from. We also
discovered some fantastic multifunctional furniture that
is also incredibly well designed. How about a coffee table
that turns into a dining table for eight!
Condo Elite, Modern Living’s Market
Info and Exciting News departments are
developing nicely and showcase some
very interesting events and offerings in the
condo market and community support
facilities. We have also added real estate
lawyer, Martin Rumack, to our roster of
esteemed contributors; this issue he talks
about finding a great real estate agent.
Our celebrity chef Lynn Crawford
shares recipes for some mouth watering
treats as well as a few kitchen and
entertaining tips. Guest art editor,
Andrea Pearce, talks to Canadian Artist,
Mélanie Simard, whose dualistic talent
enables her to express both of her
artistic passions. Marc Saltzman is back
again, solving our tech dilemmas one gadget at a time.
We round out the issue with all of our other fantastic
departments packed with concise, serviceable and
engaging information.
Enjoy!
Brian Gluckstein with Monique Charbonneau
during a shoot for CE Modern Living.
CONDO ELITE
FALL | 1
EDITOR IN CHIEF
Monique Charbonneau
[email protected]
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Monique Charbonneau
ART DIRECTOR
Felice Waldman
[email protected]
conte
FEATURES
VICE PRESIDENT
SALES & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
Nicholas Wattson
[email protected]
DESIGN
14 | STYLE AND SUBSTANCE An Interview
SPECIAL PROJECTS
with Brian Gluckstein by Toby Saltzman
Henry Calderon
[email protected]
CUISINE
SOCIAL MEDIA
Kara Wood, Succinct Social Media
8 | THE ART OF FOOD Tasty treats
from The Food Network’s Lynn Crawford
by Meredith Keeve
PUBLISHED BY
Condo Elite Modern Living is
published every quarter by
MJ Rochester Publishing Ltd.
JOIE DE VIVRE
MJ Rochester Publishing Inc.
1601 Bayview Ave., 43590
Toronto, ON, Canada M4G 4G8
34 | NEIGHBOURHOOD CULTURE
King Street Design District
by Linda Leatherdale
All Rights Reserved. Reproduction in whole
or part of Condo Elite Modern Living without
permission is prohibited. Printed in Canada.
VOITURE
11 | SMART FORTWO Safety First
Submissions are welcomed via mail or email,
however, we cannot assume responsibility for
unsolicited manuscripts and photographs.
Although every attempt is made to be sure
all information and facts are accurate,
we cannot be responsible for changes that
occur after publication.
SUBCRIPTION INQUIRIES
Please contact us at [email protected]
CONDO ELITE
Modern Living
condoelite.ca
[email protected]
Tel: 416.477.7690
A publication of
MJ Rochester Publishing Inc.
by Monique Charbonneau
ON THE COVER
14
14
Brian Gluckstein was
photographed for the
cover of CE Modern Living
Magazine by April Maciborka,
Olive Studio
30
STAY CONNECTED WITH
Condo Elite Modern Living
WHEREVER YOU ARE!
Condo Elite Modern Living
@CondoElite
2 | S PRING CONDO ELITE
8
20
nts
fall i s s ue 2 0 1 3
CONTENTS
departments
1| Editor’s page Fantastic Fall
4 | Contributors Meet our fabulous contributors
DESIGN
20 | New York State of Mind
32 | Innovative Furniture
VOYAGES
22 | Genius Getaways Boston and New York City
by Jim Flynn
TECH TALK
30 | Ebook reader or Tablet by Marc Saltzman
LES BEAUX ARTS
LEGAL ADVICE
37 | How to find a real estate agent
by Martin Rumack
EXCITING NEWS
6 | Coexistence: One Artist Two Names
26 | architecture & design Sandi Pei will break
ground in Toronto with his modernist architecture and
design by Toby Saltzman
by Andrea Pearce
17 | Featured Artist: Mark Raynes Roberts
by Kara Wood
27 |philanthropy Daniels Corporation gives back
MARKET INFO
10 | Kingston, Ontario: The Tower: Clegy On
Queen by Jim Barber
12 | Urban Towns At The Carlaw
18 | King Blue
24 | Woodbridge, Ontario: Fairground Lofts
17
11
32
28 |GroundBreaking Elad Canada breaks ground
on parkway forest community centre
LAST WORD
40 | Interview with Sam Mizrahi
by Monique Charbonneau
28
18
34
CONDO elite
FALL | 3
our
contributors
CONTRIBUTORS
APRIL MACIBORKA
Owner of Olive Studio
and April Maciborka
Photography, April
divides her time between
commercial clients,
editorial shoots and her
renowned work as one
of the GTA best wedding
photographers. After 4
years of travelling Asia
and Africa documenting
people and their culture,
April has returned
to her hometown of
Toronto and stationed
her business here. Her
work has appeared in
numerous online and
print publications around
the world. Honoured with
various awards by Applied
Arts Magazine she has
also been nominated as
one of the top 25 best
wedding photographers
of 2013 by Weddingbells.
April continues to travel
and take pictures that
motivate and inspire.
www.olivestudio.ca
MARTIN RUMACK
Martin Rumack has
practiced Real Estate
Law for over 30 years.
If you have any
questions, please feel
free to contact him at
martin@martinrumack.
com.
4 | FALL
CONDO ELITE
TOBY SALTZMAN
Winner of the prestigious
2010 Lowell Thomas
Travel Journalism Award,
Toby believes the best
travel experiences come
in the pursuit of a passion,
for sport or a pilgrimage
through history or
nature. Toby’s work has
appeared in The Globe
and Mail, National Post,
Global Traveler Magazine,
Zoomer Magazine,
Destinations Magazine,
Cruise & Travel Lifestyles
and Air Canada Vacations
Magazine. She is the
publisher and editor of
travelterrific.com. Toby’s
awards include: various
Fairmont Business
Travel Writing Awards;
Starwood Hotel Review
Awards; Cayman Island’s
Caribbean Travel Writing
Awards; K. R. Wilson
Magazine Awards; and
London Photography
Award. Toby is Chair of
the Society of American
Travel Writers, Canadian
Chapter.
MARC SALTZMAN
Marc Saltzman is one of
North America’s most
recognizable and trusted
tech experts, specializing
in consumer electronics,
Internet trends and
interactive entertainment.
Marc has authored 15
books since 1996 and
currently contributes to
nearly 50 high-profile
publications in North
America, including
Toronto Star, USA Today,
AARP, MSN, Yahoo!,
Costco Connection,
Postmedia, Media Planet,
Movie Entertainment,
Telus Talks Business
and Rogers Connected.
Marc hosts various video
segments, including
“Gear Guide” (seen at
Cineplex movie theatres
and sister chains across
Canada) and is a regular
guest on CNN, CNN
International and CTV’s
Canada AM. Marc also
hosts “Tech Talk,” a
syndicated radio spot
across Canada.
RAFAEL WAGNER
Managing Director
Odon Wagner
Contemporary Gallery
Odon Wagner
Contemporary Gallery
exhibits paintings,
sculpture and prints by its
represented Canadian and
international artists. The
gallery is an art destination
near Toronto’s Yorkville.
A Member of the Art
Dealers Association
of Canada (ADAC),
the gallery’s managing
director Rafael Wagner
will bring his expertise to
our readers by providing
insightful information
about purchasing and
cultivating a fine art
collection. Focusing on
such topics as how to buy
your first piece of real art
and what to look for in
an art gallery. Rafael is
currently a member of the
Granite Club’s Art Society
Committee.
DEIRDRE KELLY • LINDA LEATHERDALE • ANDREA PEARCE • JIM BARBER
MEREDITH KEEVE
Meredith Keeve worked as
a journalist while living in
Paris. She has contributed
features for Votre Beaute
magazine and wrote a
shopping column for a
local newspaper while
living in Warsaw. She has
also written for Zoom,
Studio and Grand Ecran
magazines. A stint at
Bonham’s Auctioneers
in London, England
cultivated her interest in
art and antiques. Recently
arrived in Canada, she has
quickly become a fan
of Toronto and maintains
subscriptions for Canadian
Stage as well as the
National Ballet and the
Canadian Opera. In
addition, she supports the
new Design Museum
mission at the Design
Exchange.
JIM FLYNN
After 20 years in the
corporate world, Jim
Flynn struck out on his
own and began creating
start-up companies, one
of which was BestWeekends.com. “When
you are going away for
only three days, you
can’t afford to make a
mistake on where you
stay, where you eat and
what you do. We help
the traveler avoid the
problems that can ruin a
trip,” says Founder and
Editor, Jim Flynn. Today
the growing site features
some 200 destinations
throughout the U.S. and
more are added each
month.
It takes many years of
experimentation and
growth for a visual artist
to channel their energies
into creating a distinct
artistic voice that will
represent their expression.
For Mélanie Simard, this
process has been a natural
duality, as she has chosen
to reveal the complexities
of her character. This
mixed media artist paints
under two names: Mélan
and Simard, creating two
unique bodies of work,
allowing her to embrace
the various facets of her
personality.
COEXISTANCE:
oneARTIST
twoNAMES
BY ANDREA PEARCE
Mélan, Tranquilite d’un soir, 48”x48”,
mixed media on canvas
one artist, two names
LES BEAUX ARTS
FOR THE LOVE OF ART
As Mélan, she creates still life scenes of vases and blooms
that feature striking black line-work and bold washes
of colour. Gentle bends and curves in the vessels and
stems give movement to her still subjects, suggesting a
relationship between them.
Simard is an abstract artist. In these pieces her
subject is more obscure, and focused on time and space.
The focal points in these compositions are often tangled
webs of splatter, which are explosive in both colour and
shape. Her vibrant hues are displayed alongside varied
neutrals for balance and a visual rest.
The differences between her two collections are as
compelling as their similarities. I posed a few questions
to the artist to gather a sense of what it is like to create
on two distinct platforms. She is an artist who recognizes
the various facets of her spirit, and encourages them to
thrive in symbiosis.
INTERVIEW
Q
Can you tell me about your artistic process?
Mélan: My style is spontaneous, yet simple. The composition consists of a flower, a leaf, and a pot which take
form as soon as the sketch is on canvas. I have a clear
idea in my mind at the outset. The spontaneity comes
from the movement, harmony, and adding colour to the
forms. This is where I have fun giving life to the painting.
Simard: With Simard, anything goes! I have no limits. I
know what I want to create in the beginning and I have
an image in my mind, but unlike my Mélan paintings,
I do not do sketches. I start with a pure white, blank
canvas. I can release frustrations if I need to, and I feel
extremely free.
Q
Where do you find your inspiration?
Mélan: I find my inspiration in everyday life. My subjects
reflect the personalities of people that I try to give life
to on the canvas. I want the viewer to feel my emotional
state through these characters. Often, the paintings speak
for themselves by the movement of the flowers, and the
title that goes with it. With painting, when emotions are
primary, the language is universal.
Simard: My inspiration comes from my emotions, but
instead of translating it into a closed form, I release
Simard, Passage des états d’âmes, 48”x48”, mixed media on canvas
spontaneously on the canvas. Sometimes mere moments
or life events give me inspiration. Raindrops on a window,
the textures and colours found in nature; everything
inspires me. Every time I travel, I collect objects that the
sea has washed up on the beach and I give them a second
life in my paintings.
Q
Colour is one of your greatest means of expression.
Are there certain colours that you are attracted to?
Do certain colours have specific meanings for you?
Mélan: I do love working with colour, and sometimes
it’s difficult to know when not to add more! However,
I always try to achieve a balance in my paintings, (and
in life). This is why the colour red is almost always
present. It is synonymous with passion, love, and has an
attractive force.
Simard: As with Mélan, red is my strength. This and
many warm colours are used in high amounts in my
Simard paintings. But cool colours do have more of a
presence in these pieces, especially blue. I love the mix
of colour in these paintings and I do not hesitate to
combine them. It’s so liberating!
CONDO ELITE
FALL | 7
Executive Chef Lynn Crawford
has over 25 years of culinary
experience. Lynn has held the
position of Executive Chef at the
Four Seasons Hotel in Toronto and
New York City. Currently she is the
Chef/Owner of Ruby Watchco and
Ruby Eats in Toronto, Canada.
the artof food
AN INTERVIEW WITH LYNN CRAWFORD
BY MEREDITH KEEVE
the art of food
Q
Talking about “the art
of food”, what does
that mean to you? Why is it
important?
My mother worked in the
arts and I grew up in a very
creative environment. The
whole family was passionate about creating things
whether it was sculpting in
clay or taking photographs.
So coming from that, visual
presentation is something
that is really significant to
me. We are really heightening
one’s senses, and receiving
a lot of pleasure from the
visuals, as well as the smells
and flavors. I am not thinking
of myself as an artist, I am a
chef. Food is beautiful; any
creation is a work of art.
Q
Any special
recommendations on
equipment?
LEMONY CUPCAKES WITH STRAWBERRY FROSTING
Makes 12 Cupcakes
1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
¼ tsp salt
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter,
softened
2 eggs
½ cup plain yogurt
2 tsp lemon zest
3 tbsp lemon juice
½ tsp vanilla extract
STRAWBERRY FROSTING
½ cup whole strawberries, washed and stemmed
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, firm and slightly cold
Pinch salt
3 ½ cups icing sugar
½ tsp vanilla extract
Preheat oven to 325*F (160°C). Line a muffin tin with
paper liners. In a large bowl, mix together flour, baking
powder, and salt. In a KitchenAid® Stand Mixer, on
medium-high speed, cream butter and sugar until pale
and fluffy. Add eggs until incorporated. Add yogurt,
lemon zest, juice and vanilla. Mix until smooth. Slowly
add flour and mix just until smooth. Scoop batter into
paper liners. Bake for about 25 minutes. Let cool in
pan for 10 minutes. Remove from pan and let cool
completely on rack before frosting.
Place the strawberries in a food processor and puree
well. In the bowl of the KitchenAid® Stand Mixer fitted
with the paddle attachment, beat together butter and
salt on medium speed until light and fluffy. Reduce
mixer speed and slowly add confectioners’ sugar; beat
until well combined. Add vanilla and 3 tablespoons
strawberry puree. Mix until just blended. Frosting
consistency should be dense and creamy.
CUISINE
equipment you really need,
do you need a toaster?
Would a toaster oven offer
more solutions and take
less space. On the other
hand it is very important
to keep the little precious
things that represent your
life – a mortar and pestle
I picked up in Spain, the
Scottish sweets (Buchanan’s)
tin my father gave me, is
very special to me. He died
several years ago, but I keep
doggie biscuits in it so I
use it every day and think
of him. There should be
meaning and inspiration in
your kitchen as well.
Q
What’s your best
advice for enjoying the
role of chef/host?
Planning in advance, don’t
spend your time away from
your guests, for example:
the salad and vinaigrette are
made in advance; don’t add
stress by trying to make new
things. Stick to things that
you do well and fast.
We all lead busy lives, so it’s
hard to maintain everything.
You know ‘everything in its
place’, starts with great tools.
SPARKLING STRAWBERRY LEMONADE
Start by really questioning
Serves 4
the things that you need. I
1 cup sugar
use a counter mixer with a
Should we be thinking
½ cup water
2 cups strawberries, stemmed and washed
bowl and other attachments;
one-pot dishes instead?
1 cup lemon juice
this one appliance allows
Always
a good “go to” , I have
3 cups sparkling water
me to really do everything I
a cookbook coming out in
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the
need to do. It is essential to
September 2013, At Home
sugar and water. Stir until sugar is completely disAVOID CLUTTER. It is too
with Lynn Crawford, there
solved. Pour the sugar syrup into a blender with the
easy to become transfixed
strawberries and lemon juice and puree that smooth.
are a lot of one-pot dishes;
Combine the puree and sparkling water in a pitcher
with gadgets. I mean do you
it’s all about simplicity and
and serve in a tall glass over ice.
really need a Green Bean
ease and great flavours. Do
Cutter?! I personally am a
you remember Julia Child’s
Recipes prepared by Chef Lynn Crawford
big fan of mason jars to store
Boeuf Bourguignon? How
all my spices, this way I can
brilliant was that?
see everything – clarity, uniformity. I am a VERY visual
person. I need to see what is in there.
Since 2010, Chef Lynn has starred in her two-time Gemini
Q
Q
General kitchen comments?
One’s kitchen has to be straightforward and
functional. You have to think about the pieces of
nominated Food Network Canada hit show Pitchin’ In. The show
spawned Chef Lynn’s first and best-selling cookbook, Pitchin’ In:
More Than 100 Great Recipes From Simple Ingredients. Lynn’s
second cookbook, At Home with Lynn Crawford, will be released
in September 2013.
CONDO ELITE
FALL | 9
MARKET INFO
new release
THE TOWER: LUXURY
CONDOS
Clergy on Queen
BPE DEVELOPMENTS
BY JIM BARBER
W
IN VIBRANT
DOWNTOWN
KINGSTON
ith a beautiful new luxury condo
development in the works and
a growing and vibrant downtown core, Kingston, Ontario
is coming on the radar as an
alternative to big city living.
Incorporating classic Victorian craftsmanship and
the stunning architectural features indicative of the love
and dedication imbued in the construction of houses
of worship, The Tower: Clergy on Queen, melds this
old world mystique with innovative, technologicallyadvanced modern design elements, creating
breathtakingly beautiful living space.
The brainchild of BPE Developments’ principal Ben
Pilon, the former Queen Street United Church has been
re-imagined into 16 splendidly appointed residential
units on five floors. A further 16 units comprise a second
dynamic phase of the project.
The Tower: Clergy on Queen is ideally located in the
heart of the vibrant and culturally bountiful downtown
core of one of Canada’s most historic and significant small
cities. A few blocks from Kingston’s world-class harbour,
the development is surrounded by the colourful sights,
scents and sounds of a community full of life and energy.
There is cuisine that is sure to entice and satisfy
every palate, from elegant 5-Star gourmet restaurants,
to funky, fashionable eateries to coffee shops and wine
bars. Downtown Kingston features live music crossing
every genre and style being played in a breathtaking
array of venues from concert halls to Irish pubs; as well
as, dozens of first rate art galleries representing every
media imaginable.
10 | FALL
CONDO ELITE
History buffs can explore numerous museums as
well as the nationally recognized historic sites of Fort
Henry and Bellevue House. Those looking for day trips to
enhance their experience of the region around Kingston
are well advised to venture out on the rural routes and
visit the many picturesque towns, villages and hamlets
that dot the landscape within an hour of The Tower.
Southeastern Ontario and Kingston itself is a true
four-season’s playground for sports and recreation
enthusiasts, featuring dozens of pristine golf courses for
every level of play, hiking and cycling trails, and plenty of
modern, accessible recreational facilities.
Kingston also has first class medical care, with
some of the leading experts in many fields working at
one of two teaching hospitals affiliated with Queen’s
University. There is also a plethora of specialists, general
practitioners and alternative care providers.
When you combine all of this with the opportunity
to own and live in a piece of important local heritage,
in splendour and comfort, The Tower: Clergy on Queen
offers an enviably rich lifestyle.
Each of the units in The Tower is unique and features
custom-designed kitchens and bathrooms. There is a
common rooftop terrace, underground parking, a private
courtyard and 9,500 square feet of commercial space.
To get a closer look at some of the units, or to find
out more about The Tower: Clergy on Queen, visit
www.bpedevelopment.com/for-sale/tower-clergy-onqueen, email [email protected], or call
613-507-9090. The sales and information office is
located at 221 Queen St., in downtown Kingston.
profile: smart fortwo
VOITURE
smartfortwo
SAFTEY FIRST
BY MONIQUE CHARBONNEAU
C
ondo dwellers looking for more than a scooter
or a bike but something that is still easy to
park and navigate congested downtown streets
should look no further! The smart fortwo was
designed especially for the needs of the modern city with
a compact exterior, impressively spacious interior and
the choice of an extremely fuel efficient gasoline engine
or a zero local-emission electric drive powertrain.
The smart fortwo is packed full of the advanced
German engineering and high tech safety features that
one would expect from Mercedes-Benz, but what I found
out on a recent car hunting trek; it is so much more!
My daughter just turned sixteen, and what is even
harder to believe than that, is she will inevitably be
behind the wheel of a car within the next year. Like all
parents, this thought is a little scary to say the least.
What I learned about the smart fortwo was impressive,
and if you can find a vehicle that offers an affordable and
versatile transportation solution with the best possible
protection, why look any further?
Designed with the highest level of safety, technology
and generous standard equipment, the smart fortwo is
truly unique in its class. The sophisticated safety concept
is anchored by the trademark tridion safety cell that
protects occupants with reinforced high-strength steel
placed at strategically important points. In fact, the smart
fortwo meets or exceeds all federal government crash
test standards, including a 5-star side crash rating, and
also received the highest scores for roof strength, and
front and side crashes from the Insurance Institute for
Highway Safety.
The smart fortwo comes equipped with two fullsize dual stage front airbags, along with standard head/
thorax side airbags to ensure maximum safety in the
event of a collision. In addition, it also features a range
of active safety systems, including ABS with electronic
brake force distribution, Electronic Stability Program
(ESP), acceleration skid control and LED daytime
running lights.
As the lowest priced zero-local emission vehicle
in Canada, the smart fortwo electric drive represents
exceptional value, while the gasoline powered smart
fortwo offers segment-leading fuel efficiency and starts
from just $14,400.
While my daughter may be more excited about the
attractive styling and the two-seater’s fun-to-drive factor,
I know I’ll rest easier knowing that safety was one of the
top design considerations of the smart fortwo when she
hits the road later this year in her first car.
CONDO ELITE
FALL | 11
MARKET INFO
new release
URBAN TOWNS
at the CARLAW:
Now this is urban living!
STREETCAR DEVELOPMENTS
T
he Carlaw by Streetcar Developments is
a stunning infill community designed
in a clean, modern style that both fits its
surroundings and enlivens its Leslieville
neighbourhood. For those who love the
urban condo life, but need some more space, Streetcar
is releasing a collection of just 21 spacious, two-level,
live/work townhouses. This award-winning developer
marries condo convenience and a superior city location
with everything we love about towns: privacy, space,
quick outside access — a perfect oasis where you can live,
work, and thrive.
The Carlaw is a stylish 12-storey building at Dundas
and Carlaw designed by Tact Architecture. This corner,
thanks both to city ordinance and the foresight of
business owners and builders like Streetcar, is poised
for a continued renaissance — and starting at $479,900,
The Carlaw townhouses offer a fresh opportunity for
home ownership in a sought after neighbourhood where
detached homes now routinely go for $800,000 and up.
Two floor plans are available, with 975 sq. ft. or 1,215
sq. ft. over two floors; there’s even one particularly cool
three-storey unit. With two or three bedrooms, they’re a
rare opportunity for a family to enjoy city living without
compromising space or
functionality. All have
either their own rooftop
terrace or an outdoor
patio designed to offer
a comforting degree
of privacy and, as each
is complete with a gas
hookup, a perfect spot
for a summer barbecue.
Like all suites at The
Carlaw, these townhouses
are distinguished by nine
and ten-foot ceilings,
inspiring interior design
and brilliantly laid-out
12 | FALL
CONDO ELITE
AN EXCITING
NEIGHBOURHOOD,
A GORGEOUS
TOWNHOUSE, AND
TORONTO AT YOUR
DOORSTEP
floor plans that don’t waste an inch, the work of Toronto’s
Seven Haus Design. Kitchens are sleek, European-inspired
works of art in themselves with ample storage courtesy
of extended-height upper cabinets, and complemented
by generous laundry rooms and contemporary, highend bathrooms featuring vanity-width mirrors with
integrated back lighting, porcelain tile floors and walls,
and soaker tubs all in a spa-like setting.
Townhouse buyers get all the amenities residents
of The Carlaw enjoy, including state-of-the-art fitness
facility, security concierge, and a rooftop terrace that
expands living space even more. One of the best amenities
is the neighbourhood itself, where boutiques, bakeries,
speciality shops and great restaurants are turning it into
a real destination for food-lovers — a wealth of gourmet
options are just outside the door, like the Leslieville
Cheese Market and the Mediterranean-flavoured Olive
and Olives.
The TTC is steps away, and highway access not
much further. The recently announced inclusion of a
permanent space for Crow’s Theatre, one of Canada’s
leading independent theatre companies, on the ground
floor of The Carlaw means Carlaw and Dundas is about
to become a cultural destination as well as an artistic
hub in a community
that lacked such a space
before. It’s great news for
local businesses, as well
as residents who want to
use the space when the
theatre is not being used
for screenings, charity
events, markets etc.
For more information:
www.thecarlaw.ca or call
416-690-8588
Euphorie des émotions • Mixed media 40x60
MÉLAN
Horizon affectif • Mixed media 30x60
SIMARD
BEAUCHAMPARTGALLERY.COM
TORONTO
55 Simcoe Street
at Wellington Street West
416.599.2244
Also
QUÉBEC
CHARLEVOIX
1 877 694.2244
LES BEAUX ARTS
f e at u r e a r t i s t z h a n g h e
style
and
substance
BY TOBY SALTZMAN
PHOTOGRAPHY
CONDO ELITEBY APRIL MACIBORKA, OLIVE STUDIO
14 | S PRING
BRIAN
GLUCKSTEIN
OFFERS HIS
TAKE ON
CONDO
DECORATING
BRIAN
GLUCKSTEIN
PHOTOGRAPHY BY
OLIVE STUDIO,
OFFERS
HIS
APRIL MACIBORKA
TAKE ON
CONDO
DECORATING
f e at u r e : i n t e r v i e w w i t h b r i a n g l u c k s t e i n
S
tyle and substance are the hallmarks of Brian Gluckstein.
Impeccably dressed and meticulously mannered, with a demeanour
that speaks volumes of personal panache, the designer’s urbane
elan has captivated an audience keen to dwell in a luxurious mode.
Renowned as one of Canada’s preeminent interior designers, his
clutch of loyal clientele – cultivated over years of custom detailing
exquisite interiors for the upper crust of society as well as notable hotels,
corporations and condominium developments in Canada and abroad – has
spanned to mass appeal, thanks to appearances on CityLine, his collaboration
with Benjamin Moore Paints, and the polished collection of stylish yet
affordable GlucksteinHome furnishings available exclusively at Hudson’s Bay
Company with accessories at Home Outfitters.
In Toronto, Brian Gluckstein’s most recent high-profile projects include
The Four Seasons Hotel/Condominiums, which has garnered rave reviews
for its stunning interiors and his collaboration with Mizrahi Developments.
Asked about his inspiration for the new, lavish sales office designed for Mizrahi
Developments at 181 Davenport – where the principal designer of Gluckstein
Design was photographed for
Condo Elite’s cover – he explained
it was to reflect Sam Mizrahi’s
aim to create a feeling of home
Here, Brian Gluckstein
with depth and soul by mingling
offers Condo Elite readers
contemporary architecture with
cosmopolitan interiors embellished
tips for adding luxurious
with fine furnishings evocative
style and illusions of space
of the 1930s and 1940s.
Designing
for
grand
to your condominium,
homes is one thing, designing
be it massive or intimate,
for condominiums is quite
another. It is mentally similar to
contemporary or
transitioning hotel spaces into
traditional.
condominiums. Asked about his
proudest accomplishments, Brian
Gluckstein says, “Doing what I
DESIGN
love as a career. I have so much fun
every day.”
Here, Brian Gluckstein offers
Condo Elite readers tips for adding
luxurious style and illusions of
space to your condominium, be it
massive or intimate, contemporary
or traditional.
First and foremost – particularly if it’s in a new building where
you have options to customize
space – consider the priority of your
lifestyle. Is it formal or casual, geared
to entertaining, dining, home office,
or bedrooms with ample closets?
For informal types, an open
kitchen works well. For formal
entertainers wanting to hide messy
preparations, a closed kitchen or
one that can be separated by pocket
doors is ideal.
To decorate with confidence,
decide on your preferred look and
create a game plan. Start by educating
yourself: collect images of appealing spaces in magazines or on-line.
Before purchasing big items, it’s
best to wait for the condo to be
built so that you can draw a floor
plan with accurate sizes for furniture
and rugs. Most important: check
that items will fit in the building’s
elevator, in the halls, and pass into
the suite.
CONDO ELITE
FALL | 15
DESIGN
f e at u r e : i n t e r v i e w w i t h b r i a n g l u c k s t e i n
Maximize a sense of spaciousness by using a consistent
palate for all materials. Stick to
variations of a colour or monochromatic tones, rather than
jarring contrasts from floors to
fabrics to walls. Avoid boredom
and add your personality by
introducing different textures
of materials.
For a light, urban quality
with a fresh, airy approach to
design, use light finishes on
walls, floors engineered in a grey
or taupe wash, light marbles,
and soft-toned furnishings.
Interesting is a developing trend
for the bleached or weathered
look that’s intrinsic to design in
Northern European countries
like Belgium and Sweden.
16 | FALL
CONDO ELITE
BEST ADVICE: Research before
you start the décor so that it
meets your ultimate vision for
your space. If you want a fancy,
formal, tranquil interior but plan
to watch TV in the living room –
perhaps it’s time to think sturdy
fabric on a casual sofa rather
than white silk upholstery on an
antique settee. Designing your
space is one time when it’s all
about you.
Use strategically placed
mirrors to reflect natural light
and illuminate dim entrances.
For example, mirrored panels on
either side of a sofa can double
the illusion of space.
Use appropriate lighting.
Aside from pot lights, lamps,
sconces and picture lights can
enliven the condominium space.
When resources are limited,
choose your main investment
pieces – like sofas, carpets and
tables – with a timeless design
sensibility in mind. Save fun
and of-the-moment trendiness
for less costly items like pillows,
throws, accessories, new duvets
or changes in paint colour.
f e at u r e a r t i s t m a r k r ay n e s r o b e r t s
LES BEAUX ARTS
crystal
clear
vision
BY KARA WOOD
A CELEBRATION OF OLD-WORLD
CRAFTSMANSHIP
A
respect for the lost art of craftsmanship.
A celebration of ancient technique. A
dreamscape that tells a story which
entrances the viewer. These are some of
the ways people characterize the ethereal
crystal masterpieces of Mark Raynes
Roberts, one of the world’s finest crystal and glass artists.
Recently, the artist was invited by Mizrahi Developments to showcase several of his hand-engraved
art works at the 181 Davenport Presentation Gallery
in Yorkville, Toronto’s prestigious mid-town heritage
neighbourhood. Raynes Roberts believes that dedication
to precision and craftsmanship is more important than
ever in this technological age. When everything in the
world changes so quickly, there’s comfort in knowing
that some things are approached and executed as they
were hundreds of years ago. Mizrahi Developments has
built its luxury brand with a similar focus on old-world
craftsmanship and perfection with its landmark condominium boutique buildings at 181 Davenport and 133
Hazelton. “We make a point of finding the best in their
field and surrounding ourselves with their talent”, commented Sam Mizrahi, President, Mizrahi Developments,
on the artist’s crystal masterpieces.
Having a long history of association with luxury
brands, such as Asprey, Neiman Marcus and Birks,
Raynes Roberts has worked on a wide range of projects
over the past 30 years in Canada. These include
Top: Mark Raynes Roberts, “In The Sanctuary of the Universal Mind”,
14”h x 14”w x 25”d, Architectural Optical Crystal Sculpture
Right: Mark Raynes Roberts, “Seasons of Joy” Tree of Life Vase
sculptures as large as 6ft in height and an architectural
wall installation measuring 53 ft, located in the Health
Science Library of McMaster University, which has
been designated a Canadian cultural property. Exhibited
internationally, his work resides in prestigious private
collections around the world and have been presented
to royalty, heads of state and distinguished leaders in
business, sports, philanthropy and the arts. He is also
well known as the creator of one of Canada’s most iconic
awards - the Rogers Cup tennis trophy.
Born in England, he trained at Birmingham City
University, Institute of Art and Design, where he
specialized in engraving under the mentorship of Ronald
Pennell, who is considered one of the world’s finest
designer glass artists.
This October, Raynes Roberts, recently featured in
“The Best in Glass” article in The Globe and Mail, will
be exhibiting his crystal art in London, England, and has
been invited to be the keynote speaker at the Guild of
Glass Engravers, Annual International Conference.
For more information, please visit:
www.raynesartdesign.com
CONDO ELITE
FALL | 17
MARKET INFO
king blue
KING BLUE
Crowns the downtown core
A HERITAGE SITE AT
THE HEART OF AN
URBAN OASIS
EASTON’S GROUP OF HOTELS
K
ing
Blue
has
been
deemed the King of the
Entertainment District —
and with good reason.
Premium fixtures and
finishes make this latest development
from Easton’s Group of Hotels unique —
luxury is in the details, and literally every
suite comes with standard finishes that
would normally be offered as upgrades for
additional costs. King Blue Condos is the
jewel of the downtown core, impeccably
located at King Street West and Blue Jays
Way in the heart of the Entertainment
District. Prices begin at the mid $200s!
Head visionary and award-winning
designer Alessandro Munge of Munge
Leung created classic, cozy and sexy
interiors with top-of-the-line materials.
Engineered oak hardwood floors radiate
elegance, while floor-to-ceiling windows
surround the living and dining room areas
that showcase Toronto’s urban skyscape.
Open-concept, gourmet kitchens
immediately impress buyers with their
polished granite countertops, multipurpose islands, built-in stainless steel,
top quality European appliances, and
modern light fixtures that inspire your
inner chef. Your choice of laminate wood
cabinetry and glass uppers completes
the seamless contemporary impression
of this first-rate kitchen – the perfect
place to host parties and entertain family and friends.
You’ll truly feel pampered when entering your very
own master ensuite spa bathroom, elegantly accented
with honed marble floors and polished marble shower
tiles throughout. Sophisticated, top-quality hardware
reinforces an urban aesthetic. Marble countertops and
backsplash marry beauty and function in this exquisitely
designed space. Each spa bathroom also features a
18 | FALL
CONDO ELITE
unique vanity mirror and accompanying
contemporary light fixture.
Visit the innovative presentation
centre to find out why King Blue Condos
is so much more than just a home; it’s a
total lifestyle package. Yoga aficionados
will appreciate the specially designed
yoga room, while fitness buffs will love
the top-of-the-line gym and sixth-floor
pool deck with surrounding city views.
With the expansive 13,000 to 35,000
sq. ft. of retail space on the ground
and second floors and the incredible
5,800-sq.-ft. patio with rooftop bar
and lounge located on its ninth floor,
you and your guests may never want
to leave – and they don’t have to. King
Blue’s convenient and chic guest suites
give your friends and family the comfort
of a home away from home – whether
they are staying an extra night or an
entire week. You will also appreciate
the ultra-convenient porte-cochère
connecting the two towers, making
pickups and drop-offs at King Blue a
cinch. As a fitting addition to the King
of the Entertainment District, Theatre
Museum Canada will take up residence
here too, in its first permanent home.
From the museum’s ground-floor
lobby off King Blue’s vibrant central
courtyard, visitors ascend to a secondfloor space distinguished on the exterior
by contrasting frames that complement the historic
Westinghouse building, whose façade is incorporated
into King Blue.
Peruse the gorgeous model suite and tour the
presentation centre, at 355 King St. Hours:
Mon-Thurs 12 pm – 6 pm; Sat-Sun 12 pm – 5 pm.
For more information, visit www.kingbluecondos.com.
SQUEEZE
MORE
FUN
INTO YOUR
BUDGET.
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smart Centre to test drive the smart fortwo today.
www.smart.com
© 2013 smart Canada, a Division of Mercedes-Benz Canada Inc.
smart - a Daimler brand
DESIGN
n e w y o r k s tat e o f m i n d
new york
stateof mind
EDITED BY MONIQUE CHARBONNEAU
20 | S PRING
CONDO ELITE
n e w y o r k s tat e o f m i n d
DESIGN
Living Room: mix of furnishings, suede wall from Moore Pearsall Toronto.
Master Bedroom: mix of custom furnishings and clients own pieces. Photo credit: Kim Sargent, Palm Beach
The flow of the rooms was
Toronto interior designer
fter many years of
carefully
laid out to allow for the
working between ToSabrina Balsky has taken
couple’s entertaining and frequent
ronto and New York,
her unique style and
houseguests. Thus the need for a
interior designer Sapenchant for mixing exotic luxurious guest bathroom and a
brina Balsky knows
closed off kitchen to contain cooking
materials, patterns and
just how to blend the
smells and preps when entertaining.
best elements of New
colour to the Big Apple
In order to delineate the dining
York design with urban
and set up shop.
area from the living area, the ceiling
Toronto flair, pleasing clients on
was coffered in the living area portion
both sides of the border.
of the room and the dining area was
Implementing her expert color
treated as a flat ceiling.
sense and refined style Balsky turned
The idea to achieve a home feel
this typical New York loft space into
to the condo space was a must. Balsky
a comfortable, livable home for her
executed this perfectly by using warm
empty nester clients.
toned exotic materials throughout
As is often the case, the clients
the home. African Tigerwood, Roseconsulted with Balsky before purwood, polished nickel, semi precious
chasing to discuss whether their
tiger eye, mother of pearl, blue marble,
architectural and design needs
Dressing Room/Hallway Cabinets and
onyx and silver leaf were just a handcould be achieved with this particular
Sconces, Sabrina Balsky Interior Design.
ful of the materials that Balsky had the
property. The couple required a
Photo Credit: Kim Sargent, Palm Beach.
pleasure of sourcing and working with.
kitchen and an office that could be
The soft blues and warm golden tones used throughout
closed off from the rest of the apartment, and a floor
give the feeling of a home, especially for empty nesters or
plan that would feel less like a loft and more like a
for people who have made the transition from a home
traditional home.
to a condo. Color is a wonderful way to add your own
A library/foyer was created to distinguish the
personality to the space.
common areas from the bedroom/office area and to
house the client’s extensive collection of rare books. The
Sabrina Balsky maintains client bases in both Toronto and New
overall space was divided into two wings—a master suite
York, for information: 212.585.0441 or 416.925.2385.
and home office in one, and the kitchen, conjoined living/
www.sabrinabalsky.com
dining rooms and guest rooms in the other. The elegant,
not-so-simple solution has proved exceedingly simple to
Opposite Page: Foyer bookshelves in African Tigerwood and lacquer.
live with.
Photo Credit: Kim Sargent, Palm Beach.
CONDO ELITE
FALL | 21
VOYAGES
boston
g e n i u s g e taway s
“ONE IF BY LAND”
BY JIM FLYNN
Founder and Editor of www.BestWeekends.com
C
DESTINATION OVERVIEW
alled the most European of American cities,
Boston is an exciting contemporary city steeped
in history, but keeping pace with the rush of
modern times. History, culture, fine dining,
shopping, sports and outdoor activities combine to make
this a destination worthy of any special weekend. Sleek
new architecture sits side by side with Colonial era historical buildings. Distinct ethnic cultures remain loyal to their
past and account for many of the unique neighborhoods.
WHEN TO GO
Boston has plenty to offer for any season of the year.
There is no bad time for a weekend visit, except perhaps
with an impending snow storm in the dead of winter,
but even then, the City is
quite beautiful.
GETTING THERE
Toronto-Boston is about
a 1½ hour flight. For flight
information check Porter
Airlines, www.flyporter.
com or Air Canada, www.
aircanada.com.
GETTING AROUND
The city is a fairly contained with many activities within walking distance. Taxis are plentiful
and the MTA is an excellent public transportation
system.
WHERE TO STAY
Don’t Miss
• A Sox game at
Fenway
• Oysters, chowder
and cold beer at the
Union Oyster House
Boston offers a full range of accommodations from
luxury hotels to elegant urban B&B’s. The Asian themed
Mandarin Oriental, located in the Back Bay area, is a
favorite with elegant styling, large rooms and incredible
service. Centrally located XV Beacon, is sleek and
modern and features large rooms with fireplaces.
The Boston Harbor Hotel, located on Rowe’s Wharf,
just a short walk to the Financial District, Quincy Market
22 | FALL
CONDO ELITE
and Faneuil Hall, offer amazing harbor views and one
of the City’s top restaurants. The Charles Street Inn
located in the heart of the historic Beacon Hill district is
an 1840 Victorian townhouse that has been marvelously
renovated and includes nine large and beautifully
appointed rooms.
WHERE TO EAT
Boston is a great “foodie” town with nationally recognized
chefs and a vibrant dining scene. L’Espalier is Boston’s
favorite restaurant, voted tops for food, décor and service
in the Zagat guide.
Clio’s Chef Ken Oringer is a bonafide “celebrity
chef ” with stints at The River Café in New York and Silk
in San Francisco.
Located in a townhouse in Beacon Hill, top
chef, Barbara Lynch’s, No.
9 Park is on just about
everyone’s list of favorites.
It is a small and intimate
spot with wonderful food
and wine and near perfect
service.
Meritage in the Boston Harbor Hotel offers a
menu available in either a
small plate or a large plate
format, each paired with a
matching wine. Finally, I
• Boston Public
never miss an opportuGardens
nity when I am in Boston
• A stroll through
to enjoy the incredible
Beacon Hill
roast chicken at Hamersley’s Bistro.
LOCAL NEWS
Smart Destinations: Discounted Sightseeing Passes.
Save up to 55%! Boston Magazine: All the “Best of
Boston” Winners. The Boston Globe: The hometown
newspaper.
Photo Above:
Beacon Hill, courtesy of Jim Flynn www.BestWeekends.com
new york city
g e n i u s g e taway s
“THE BIG APPLE”
VOYAGES
BY JIM FLYNN
Founder and Editor of www.BestWeekends.com
N
DESTINATION OVERVIEW
ew York is called
the “Greatest City
in t he World ”
for good reason. No other
city has so much to offer in
so many areas. World
champion sports teams,
Broadway theatre, world
renowned museums, opera
and ballet, leading fashion
designers, top rated restaurants, shopping for every
budget, beautiful parks and
so much more.
WHEN TO GO
Don’t Miss
• A carriage ride in
Central Park
• A Broadway show
• Ground Zero
• Rockefeller Center
in Winter
New York is enjoyable at
any time of the year. Locals
flock to the Hamptons
or the Jersey Shore in the summer leaving the City
to tourists; Fall brings beautiful tree colors in Central
Park and snowfalls throw a wonderful hush over the
City.
GETTING THERE
Toronto-NYC is about 1 hour and 30 minutes. For flight
information check Porter Airlines, www.flyporter.com
and Air Canada, www.aircanada.com. Of course The
Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport makes it very convenient for city dwellers to escape for the weekend.
GETTING AROUND
Taxis are abundant, public transportation is good and
there are pedicabs and bike lanes all over town.
WHERE TO STAY
It is not inexpensive to stay in NYC and unfortunately
price generally equals quality.
Our mid-priced favorites are: In mid-town, The
Blakely and Sofitel. Downtown, the Ritz Carlton, Battery
Park often has some excellent deals depending on the
time of year and we love Robert DeNiro’s Greenwich
Hotel in Tribeca.
• The Christmas Show
at Radio City
• The Metropolitan
Museum of Art
• Top of the Empire
State Building
For the ultimate in
luxury: The Lowell on the
Upper East Side, The Mandarin Oriental and The
Ritz Carlton on Central
Park, are among the finest
hotels in the world.
An alternative is to try
Hotwire.com where you can
often get 4-5 star hotels for
3 star prices. We’ve had
great luck with them.
WHERE TO EAT
At the top of the pyramid
is, Per Se (a Thomas Keller
restaurant), Le Bernardin,
possibly the finest seafood
restaurant in the world,
Daniel (a Daniel Boulud
restaurant), Eleven Madison Park and Del Posto, a
magnificent Italian by Mario Batali. Le Grenouille is one
of the last of the great, classic French restaurants and the
River Café in Brooklyn has wonderful food and the best
view of the City anywhere.
On the more modest side, our vote for best all-around
restaurant is the delightful bistro, Balthazar in Soho.
Breakfast, brunch, lunch, afternoon snack and dinner are
all worth the trip. Minetta Tavern in Greenwich Village
has great steaks and burgers, Union Square Café is a
perennial “most popular” winner and Avra is a wonderful Greek restaurant with fresh Mediterranean fish.
LOCAL NEWS
Here’s where you can find the local “scoop” before your
NYC weekend. Newspapers: New York Times, NY Post,
NY Daily news, Magazine: New York. Entertainment:
Time Out New York.
TICKETS
Discount theatre, music and sporting events are available
at Broadway Box and Stubhub.
Photos Left to Rigth: Central Park, courtesy of Jim Flynn; Statue of Liberty,
courtesy of imageXsotic.
CONDO ELITE
FALL | 23
MARKET INFO
groundbreaking
FAIRGROUND LOFTS
now under construction in Old
Woodbridge Village WYCLIFFE HOMES
THINKING
OF
MOVING
NORTH?
Groundbreaking: (L-R) Regional Councillor Deb Schulte, Ward 2 Councillor Tony Carella, City of Vaughan Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua, Wycliffe Homes’
VP Development Jared Bensky, President Gary Bensky and VP Finance David Art. Photo Credit: Nicola Betts Photography
T
his spring, Wycliffe Homes broke ground
and started construction on Fairground
Lofts in Old Woodbridge Village, marking an
exciting milestone at this highly successful
community. Purchasers can look forward
to occupancy dates beginning Winter 2014. The City of
Vaughan Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua joined purchasers,
friends and family members of Wycliffe for the official
groundbreaking ceremony and reception. Excitement
ran high as this major forward step brings homeowners
closer to their move-in dates.
Now at 70 per cent sold, this outstanding
community still offers a tremendous selection of suites
beginning in price from just $369,900. Now is the
time to act, as Fairground Lofts is filling a demand for
innovative condominium living in one of the GTA’s most
prestigious areas. With a population of 300,000, Vaughan
is one of Canada’s fastest-growing cities. In fact, recently,
MoneySense magazine ranked Vaughan in the top ten best
mid-sized cities in Canada.
Within Vaughan, Woodbridge offers beautiful,
established surroundings. Fairground Lofts residents will
be able to walk to the restaurants, shops and services in
Old Woodbridge Village. Situated to major highways,
Fairground Lofts will be very accessible to downtown
Toronto when the subway opens in Vaughan. Wycliffe’s
community features a lushly landscaped courtyard,
which fits right in with the area’s European flair.
Buyers are captivated by Fairground Lofts’ unique
industrial exterior architecture with heritage brick
24 | FALL
CONDO ELITE
components. The high ceilings and luxurious finishes in
the urban town lofts are new to the area as well. Impressive
standards include smooth ceilings throughout, stainless
steel kitchen appliances (integrated hood fan/microwave,
fridge, slide-in range and dishwasher), Grohe plumbing
fixtures, five-paneled recessed shaker swing doors to the
laundry room, stacking washer and dryer and central air
conditioning. For storage, Wycliffe has included several
closets. Adding to the appeal, Wycliffe is a made-to-measure
builder, so purchasers can make optional customizations
wherever possible. Purchasers appreciate the fact that to
buy an equivalent condominium in downtown Toronto,
they would pay upwards of double the price.
The remaining one-bedroom+den, two-bedroom,
two-bedroom+den and three-bedroom designs range in
size from 990 to 1,125 sq. ft.
One of the GTA’s longest-standing builders, Wycliffe’s
master craftsmanship and superior customer service are
legendary in the industry. For over 60 years, the company
has built more than 10,000 exquisite homes throughout
Ontario. Superior after-sales service and a reputation for
creating memorable homes and communities distinguish
Wycliffe as extraordinary.
Visit the Presentation Centre and tour the model suite
at 177 Woodbridge Avenue Monday to Thursday from
1 to 7 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
For more information, call 905-605-5900 or visit
www.wycliffelofts.com.
f e at u r e a r t i s t z h a n g h e
LES BEAUX ARTS
Does the sofa look good with the table? Does the table
go with the carpet? What colour would go with the
fabric on the chair? There is a reason why we have the
word ‘concept’ in our name. We have had all the worries
about matching and fitting. And our interior decorators
can guide and advise you. BoConcept is all about
making your home come together. So that you can
enjoy the harmony of an interior look that will last for
years.
BoConcept Toronto 230 Adelaide St. East
Toronto M5A 1M9 647 352-8802 www.boconcept.ca
CONDO ELITE
FA L L | 25
EXCITING NEWS
sandi pei architecture and design
SANDI PEI
Designing a new
legacy of modernist
architecture in Toronto
at the corner of Yonge
and Eglinton
BY TOBY SALTZMAN
A frisson of excitement swept
through the room when
Li Chung (Sandi) Pei unveiled
the stunning design of
Tower Hill Development
Corporation’s new
condominium project that will
literally transform Toronto’s
midtown skyline at the
Yonge-Eglinton district with a
uniquely modernist aura.
26 | FALL
CONDO ELITE
sandi pei
E
legant and eloquent in
architectural vernacular,
Sandi Pei – scion of the
venerable architect I. M.
Pei – said he could not resist being
engaged where his father created
his own landmark, the city’s
Commerce Court. Describing the
impetus for the New York-based
Pei Partnership Architects’ design
in collaboration with Toronto’s Quadrangle Architects,
Pei explained there was great interest in creating a
sculptural design worthy of “sophisticated” Toronto,
a city rich in arts and culture: “We wanted something
new, original, yet enduring which would contribute to
Toronto. We didn’t want to build a glass building with
anonymity: we wanted cleanliness and clarity of design.”
Rising above a six-storey podium base erected at
the streetscape of 2221 Yonge St., the 56-storey condo
will feature a slender, five-sided pointed tower canted
with an off-centre perspective that will provide privacy
from nearby buildings while maximizing views. The
main level of the podium will be a grand, a high-ceiling
lobby extending from Yonge St. to a port-cochere on
Cowbell Lane (one block east) where cars can circle
to the entrance. Beyond the ordinary, the building
will have a distinct, wrap-around terrace with deep
balconies crafted in white, precast concrete with “tabs”
/
philanthropy
EXCITING NEWS
that will modulate the façade with
an undulating, modernist lineage
while providing energy-saving
shade. Exceptional elements sure to
entice residents to the “reasonably
priced” 10 units per floor —
ranging from studios to threebedroom suites — building that
will include a rooftop sky lounge on
the 56th floor with three pools and
“Toronto’s finest residential spa.” A seventh-floor leisure
activity area will house a fitness centre, lounge, media
and games rooms, and an outdoor terrace with fireplaces
and barbecues. Toronto’s Munge Leung will design the
building’s interiors. Located on the Yonge subway line –
and eventually to be serviced by the Eglinton Crosstown
LRT – the building will also include parking spaces for
over 300 cars and 590 bikes.
Asked about how he perceives the architectural
legacy of his generation, Sandi Pei said, “That hasn’t
been written yet. It will encompass a diversity of styles,
materials, and designs for a complex of buildings that
create the fabric of a city. We hope this building will be a
legacy to modernism in Toronto.”
For more information call 647-350-2221 or visit
www.2221yonge.com.
DANIELS CORPORATION GIVES BACK
UNIVERSITY OF TORONTO TO TRANSFORM ICONIC
LANDMARK INTO THE NEW HOME OF THE JOHN H. DANIELS
FACULTY OF ARCHITECTURE, LANDSCAPE, AND DESIGN
Shown following the announcement (right to
left) Myrna Daniels; The Daniels Corporation
Chairman John H. Daniels; President, Mitchell
Cohen; CFO, Jim Aird; Architects Nader Tehrani
and Katie Faulkner, NADAAA; The Daniels
Corporation Senior Vice President Tom Dutton.
TORONTO - University of Toronto has unveiled plans to transform
one of Toronto’s most iconic landmarks, One Spadina Crescent, to become the new home of the John H. Daniels Faculty of Architecture,
Landscape, and Design. The revitalized building project is designed by
Nader Tehrani, principal of internationally acclaimed firm, NADAAA, and his collaborator Katie Faulkner. The
University has received an additional personal contribution of $10 million from architect, developer and philanthropist John H. Daniels (BArch 1950, LLD Hon. 2011) and his wife Myrna Daniels, adding to their $14 million
gift that initiated planning for the expansion and named the Faculty in 2008. These two benefactions totalling
$24 million are the largest gifts designated to architecture programs in Canadian history. In addition, The Daniels
Corporation, on behalf of the company’s management and staff will contribute $1 million to the UofT’s current
fundraising campaign evenly divided between capital and The John and Myrna Daniels Scholars award program.
CONDO ELITE
FALL | 27
EXCITING NEWS
elad canada’s emerald city groundbreaking
PARKWAY FOREST
“LEED Silver Candidate”Community Centre
COMMUNITY CENTRE BREAKS GROUND
Parkway Forest “LEED Silver Candidate” Community Centre breaks ground with (L-R) ELAD Canada’s
VP Development & Construction Ron Weinstock, CFO Rafael Lazer, Toronto Don Valley East Ward
33 Councillor Shelley Carroll, ELAD Canada’s VP Development & Marketing Netanel Ben-Or, Senior
Project Manager Hanon Amor and City Planner Steve Forester. Photo Credit: Drew Mastromartino
T
ORONTO, June 2013, ELAD CANADA
Inc. hosted a groundbreaking ceremony for
the Parkway Forest Community Centre, an
important component of the Parkway Forest
master-planned community, Emerald City
at Don Mills Road and Sheppard Avenue.
The Diamond Schmitt Architects-designed Parkway Forest Community Centre is a 50,000-square-foot
facility with a green roof, a commercial teaching kitchen
and an adjacent Rooftop Garden.
Programming spaces and facilities will include the
first full-size gymnasium in the neighbourhood plus
a running track, multi-purpose room, arts and crafts
room, youth lounge, meeting room, weight room, aerobics and dance studio, and a YMCA-run daycare —
another first, as the first purpose-built child care space
in this community. An outdoor pool and pavilion with
change rooms is also part of the complex.
The Centre is being built to achieve Toronto’s
second LEED Silver Certification for a Community
Centre, Childcare and outdoor pool with Pavilion. It
also marks the first community recreation infrastructure
to appear in the neighbourhood in 20 years, making the
groundbreaking special for the residents, the City and
the developer.
The Community Centre will be part of Emerald
City, a master-planned high-rise community under
28 | FALL
CONDO ELITE
construction in the neighbourhood. Designed as a
family-friendly, lifestyle-oriented urban option, the
comprehensive plan for Emerald City includes a
pedestrian-friendly plaza and a 13-acre family park with
children’s playground in addition to the Parkway Forest
Community Centre, ideal complements to existent
amenities that include schools and a library.
“As a developer, our commitment is not just to build
great condos, but to take a leading role in building great
communities,” said ELAD Canada’s Vice-President,
Development and Marketing , Netanel Ben-Or. “To be
able to contribute such an important neighbourhood
component as the Parkway Forest Community Centre to
the overall plan for Emerald City is something we see as
a duty. It’s a tangible way to let residents know we care
about the quality of their lives and that of their families.”
When completed, Emerald City will add 2,500 residences
to Parkway Forest, a neighbourhood near Fairview Mall,
the Sheppard subway, highways 401 and 404, with easy
access to downtown.
WZMH Architects in 2011 received an Urban
Design Award from the City of Toronto for their work
on Emerald City. The first three condominium towers,
in Block A of Emerald City, are under construction
with occupancies available starting this October.
Visit www.dreamtower.ca
Committed to Excellence,
Service You Deserve.
‘Exclusive Agents for Shane Baghai Developments’
Yassi Zahedi
Broker of Record
Amir Mizrahi
Sales Representative
Maria Sabour
Broker
David Brook
Sales Representative
Ashian Ghazi
Ali Zarmehr
Parviz Foroughi
Gary Bragagnolo
Sales Representative
Sales Representative
Broker
Sales Representative
Alon Mizrahi
Sales Representative
Jaris J. Legall
Sales Representative
Bridlepath Progressive Real Estate Inc., Brokerage
416.449.0090 • bridlepathrealty.ca
visit us at our new branch office located at
678 Sheppard Avenue East, Unit A, Toronto, ON M2K 1B7
TECH TALK
e b o o k r e a d e r o r ta b l e t ?
ebook reader
or tablet?
You’re finally
ready to buy
one for yourself,
but the big
question remains:
Which one?
BY MARC SALTZMAN
W
hether you spend
time in your
favourite coffee
shop, in airports
or on public
transit, you no doubt have seen a
good number of people flipping
through digital pages of an electronic
book reader or touchscreen tablet.
Ebook readers and tablets might
look similar at first glance, and
they’re both touchscreen-enabled,
but they serve different purposes
and can vary greatly in price. To
make matters more confusing, a
new crop of premium ebook readers
with tablet–like functionality and
colour screens are now available,
with a cost somewhere in between
regular e-book readers and fullblown tablets.
To help you decide which one is
for you, consider the following look
at each choice.
EBOOK READERS
WHAT ARE THEY:
As the name suggests, ebook readers,
30 | FALL
CONDO ELITE
Above: Kobo Mini in a variety of colours.
Inset: Sony Reader
sometimes referred to as e-readers,
are ideal for people who like to
read. They’re designed primarily
for downloading electronic books
(ebooks), magazines and newspapers
from a wireless store. When reading,
simply tap or swipe the screen to
flip through the “pages,” plus you
can change the font size and style;
tap a word to look up a definition (or
in some cases, make annotations);
and many ebook readers let you
borrow books for free from your
local library.
BENEFITS:
Ebook readers are usually smaller
and lighter than tablets, which make
them more portable and easier
on your wrists while holding, also
they have non-glare screens that
make it easier to read in bright
sunlight (not so easy to do on a
backlit tablet). Ebook readers are
also more affordable than tablets,
starting at about $50 for an entrylevel model from a brand name like
Kobo. Amazon Kindle and Sony
Reader models cost more. Ebook
readers also have a battery that lasts
between 1 and 2 months, on average,
compared to 10 hours at most for
tablets.
DRAWBACKS:
Ebook readers are ideal for reading
ebooks, but not much else. This
is fine for those who only want
to read on them, but the lack of
power and limited functions (like
no video playback) and no (or few)
apps means the experience is, well,
limited. Yes, there are also those
e b o o k r e a d e r o r ta b l e t ?
TECH TALK
DRAWBACKS:
Amazon Kindle Fire HD
iPad Mini
hybrid ebook reader/tablet products
that have a little more umph under
the hood, colour screens and the
ability to do more than just display
books. A black and white screen is
ideal for books and newspapers, but
there’s an obvious trade-off when
reading magazines without colour.
Finally, ebook readers typically have
screens that measure 5- to 7-inches,
but some people prefer reading on
larger tablets.
TABLETS
WHAT ARE THEY:
Touchscreen tablets — like the
mega-popular iPad, as well as
Android and Windows 8 models –
are also thin and light devices. Use
your fingertips to tap, swipe and
pinch through content on the screen,
which typically ranges from 7 to 12
inches. Tablets have a colour and
usually glossy screen and are built
not just for reading ebooks, but also
checking email, browsing the web,
playing games, listening to music
and watching videos. Tablets usually
have two cameras. Apps number in
the hundreds of thousands, and are
downloaded from various online
app stores; wirelessly. All tablets
have Wi-Fi and some can take a SIM
card for cellular connectivity.
BENEFITS:
Tablets are a computer – just like
your laptop – but they rely on touch
instead of mice and keyboards.
You can do almost everything
on a tablet you would on a more
conventional laptop or desktop,
including
document
creation,
video chats, shopping online and
reviewing calendar appointments.
In fact, tablets can do things your
other computer probably can’t,
such as shoot HD video and help
you navigate city streets using GPS.
Tablets are very versatile devices
that also boast large and colourful
screens, and they’ve got support
for hundreds of thousands of apps
at both the Apple App Store and
Google Play; tablets have free apps
for all the major ebook companies,
too, including Kobo, Kindle, Sony
Reader, and others.
Tablets can cost 4
to 5 times as much
as an ebook reader.
For example, the
Kobo Touch costs
$70, while the latest
iPad and Microsoft’s
Surface both start at
$499. There are less
expensive
tablets,
of course, such as
the Google Nexus
7 (from $199), but
because a tablet can do so much
more than an ebook reader, and
with more power and speed and a
beautiful colour screen, you need to
pay for these added luxuries. Tablets
are also usually a bit heavier and
bigger than dedicated ebook readers.
For bookworms, tablets have screens
that are ideal for indoors but not
so much for outside because they’re
backlit and not glare-free.
SUMMARY
As you can see, whether you go with
an ebook reader or tablet, it boils
down to what you want to do with
the device, where you’re going to use
it and what your budget is.
If all you want is a portable and
affordable ebook reader, there’s no
need to buy a pricier tablet with all
the bells and whistles you won’t use.
On the other hand, if you’d like a thin,
lightweight and touchscreen device
to carry with you — one that does a
lot more than a basic ebook reader,
and you prefer a larger and colour
screen, too – then a tablet is what
you should invest in. Remember,
there are “tweener” products, too –
such as the $199 Kobo Arc or $214
for the 7-inch Kindle Fire HD.
Whichever device you decide to
go with, happy reading!
CONDO ELITE
FALL | 31
LES BEAUX ARTS
Toronto has arguably
become one of
the most important
cities in the world.
Enabling this
transformation has
been the constant
influx of people and
capital from all over
the world. Over
the last decade,
urbanization plans
have promoted the
development of
North America’s most
prolific condominium
market. There is
clearly a need to
accommodate a
population that grows
denser each year in
the downtown core.
f e at u r e a r t i s t z h a n g h e
listen
up
CONDO DWELLERS
EDITED BY MONIQUE CHARBONNEAU
32 | FALL
CONDO ELITE
i n n o vat i v e f u r n i t u r e
BoConcept:
The BoConcept store in Toronto is
located at the corner of Adelaide
St East and Jarvis St in the heart of
the King East Design district. The
BoConcept team is made up of trained
design consultants offering in-store or
in-home design consultations to help
their customers overcome even the
trickiest decorating challenges. For
more information call: 647.352.8802
Multi-functional
furniture combined
with upscale
urban design
I
t is natural for a condo
dweller to seek modern
furniture lines, since their
proportions are well suited
for smaller spaces. In fact,
many companies, mostly of
European origins, are addressing
the needs of today’s urbanites. This
should be no surprise to anyone since
Europeans have long lived in smaller
spaces compared to their North
American counterparts. The 400 to
600 s/f apartments have long been a
reality of the European architecture in
the largest cities to the smallest villages
across the European landscape.
Denmark has always been at
the forefront of modern design, and
many of the legendary designers and
architects over the last half-century have come from this small but
progressive country. The Scandinavian designers have long promoted
simplicity and multi-functionality in
all design aspects.
With 60 years of design
and manufacturing experience,
BoConcept is a global success with
over 250 brand store locations in
more than 58 countries; priding
itself on manufacturing customized furniture for people who love
DESIGN
design, function and style in all aspects of life.
Owner and General Manager
of BoConcept Toronto, Dominique
Roberge, explains: “Through our
unique personalized approach,
BoConcept is one of Toronto’s most
important design destinations.
We strive to offer an unparalleled
shopping experience to the urbanminded consumer looking to satisfy
their contemporary tastes.”
“Our collection is very extensive.
We can create casual and relaxed
atmospheres, or upscale and very
elegant contemporary decors. From
the furniture to the smallest accessories, rugs and lamps, BoConcept designs and manufactures everything
you see in our store. As a result, our
clients love the cohesive style they
can achieve in their condo. Many
of them bring us their floor plan,
and we work together to develop
3D drawings showing our clients a
solution that fits their needs and
budget. In fact, our price range is
as broad as our collection. We are a
high-end brand that doesn’t carry
the excessively high price tags you’d
expect. We love to create furniture that
combines the feeling of luxury with
quality, design and material, at a fair
and affordable price.”
Genius: BoConcept draws from a
wide selection of very functional
and cleverly designed products. The
BoConcept coffee table can transform into a dining table that will
accommodate up to 8 people, and
don’t miss the Xtra, an ottoman that
transforms into a comfortable bed.
Now that’s multi-functional!
CONDO ELITE
FALL | 33
is king
design
on KING STREET EAST
BY LINDA LEATHERDALE
neighbourhood
culture: King Street East
Flatiron Building. Photo Credit: Alexis Jardin
courtesy of St. Lawrence Market Neighbourhood BIA.
34 | S PRING
CONDO ELITE
neighbourhood: king street east
JOIX DE VIVRE
The King Street East
neighbourhood has
undergone a huge
revitalization; major
brands, retailers, and
designers are setting
up luxurious studios
which happily thrive
amongst the beautiful
condo buildings and
their residents.
Above: Stunning kitchen designed by celebrity designer Jane Lockhart and on display
at Cambria’s state-of-art studio. Photo Credit: Greta Baker.
L to R: Front Street, Berczy Park. Photo Credit: Alexis Jardin
courtesy of St. Lawrence Market Neighbourhood BIA.
esign is King on King Street
East! If you fancy design and
architecture coupled with
heritage buildings, fantastic
shops and top rated restaurants, then King Street East may
just be the perfect neighbourhood for you.
In the heart of Toronto’s Old Town, where new condo projects are on the rise amid a mystical backdrop of
treasured historic buildings – a new design destination
has emerged.
It’s the King East Design District and it’s quickly
becoming the hot spot for anyone who adores interior
design, decorators, architects, builders as well as ev-
eryday folk who appreciate the finer things in life. It’s
not just the design savvy in the GTA who are attracted
to this new area. Inquisitive design minds who visit from afar – Europe, Asia and other parts of the
globe – are also making King East a must see when in
town, as the province proudly promotes Toronto as a
global design destination.
But King East wasn’t always a hot destination, with
top-of-the-line showrooms, fashionable eateries and
distinguished shops. Go back 50 years and this crown
jewel of Toronto’s birth, with its stately buildings like
the St. Lawrence Hall and the King Edward Hotel, had
fallen into disarray. It took a few trail blazers in the
design world to help turn it around. In 1968, a manufac-
CONDO ELITE
FALL | 35
JOIX DE VIVRE
neighbourhood: king street east
“We want curious consumers
to come and visit to get the
latest in design”.
L to R: Sony Centre; St. Lawrence Market. Photo Credit: Robyn Posner;
St. James Cathdral. Photo Credit: Emily Atherton. Photos courtesy of
St. Lawrence Market Neighbourhood BIA; Inset: Cambria. Photo credit: Greta Baker
turer of modern furniture,
curious consumers to
Klaus Nienkamper, bought
come and visit to get
a dilapidated building at
the latest in design”. Sub
300 King East that datZero/Wolf, along with
ed back to 1845 and once
other showrooms in the
housed a grocery store. By
area, including Cambria,
the 1970s, Klaus became
Savoia, Bo Concept, Ana landmark destination
drew Richard Designs,
where architects, designers
Calligaris, Magia Bevi,
and modern furniture colStudio B, UpCountry, KIlectors would gather. Also
OSK and others, joined
pioneering this transforforces and the first-ever
mation was Italinteriors,
King East Design Disanother modern furniture
trict Exhibition was born.
St. Lawrence Hall courtesy of
house who 36 years ago,
Participating showrooms
St. Lawrence Market Neighbourhood BIA
opened at 359 King East.
and design galleries opBy the time the Millenened their doors wide to
nium arrived, others had made the leap of faith onto King
exhibition goers who were treated to tastings by top
East, big name brands such as Sub Zero/Wolf with their
chefs, seminars by style gods and draws for designer
new state-of-the-art showroom just east of Sherbourne.
prizes – all while raising money for Habitat for Humanity.
Explains Anna Manca, Sub Zero Wolf ’s Director
This year’s event will take place on Saturday,
of Business Development: “We were the best kept
Sept. 28th and plans to be even bigger and better.
secret in Toronto and we wanted to change that.
Go to www.kingeastdesigndistrict.com for details.
We want everyone to know we are here. We want
Yes, King Street East Design District has arrived.
36 | FALL
CONDO ELITE
h i r e a p r o f e s s i o n a l r e a l e s tat e a g e n t
LEGAL ADVICE
hire a professional!
DO YOUR HOMEWORK WHEN HIRING A REAL ESTATE AGENT
BY MARTIN RUMACK,
Clients often ask me whether they
need to work with a professional real
estate agent when buying or selling a
condominium. I tell them it’s a good
idea. A full-time real estate agent has
the background knowledge to properly
advise them in every situation.
For example:
• Individual buyers or sellers will generally not have the
insight, background and experience to deal with the
negotiation aspect of the process.
• Sellers may underestimate the time and hassle involved
in dealing with potential buyers – and with the “tirekickers”.
• Experienced real estate lawyers, while able to provide
legal advice, may not have specific knowledge about
the pricing and marketing of condominiums in a
particular geographic area.
An experienced agent will also know to check
for specific aspects that are unique to condominium
transactions: These include checking for the availability
and location of parking spaces and lockers. Asking
about any new developments in the neighbourhood that
might interfere with the views from the particular unit.
Any increase in monthly maintenance fees, any special
assessments, etc. Also, advising a buyer whether or not to
submit an offer and the price they would suggest.
Whether you are looking to buy or sell a condominium, you need to ask yourself these questions about
whether or not to hire a particular agent:
WHAT ARE MY NEEDS?
How much service, attention, guidance and “hand-holding” do you need from an agent? What services are you
expecting? What type of personality will best suit you, in
terms of being able to work closely with the person to
achieve your home-buying goals?
B.A., L.L.B.
WHAT WILL THE AGENT BRING TO THE TABLE?
Here are 11 specific questions to ask the
agent you are considering:
1.
How long have they been in the business?
While decades of experience may not be necessary,
you want someone who has been “around the block”.
And whatever their experience, be sure to ask about
their track-record.
2.
What type of training, education, and qualifications do
they have in real estate?
Do they keep up with the latest trends and developments
in the industry? What are their qualifications? Do
they do more than the minimum in terms of mandated
educational requirements?
3.
What is their average list-price-to-sales-price ratio when
representing sellers? And vice versa, for buyers?
In other words, how successful are they in obtaining a
“good deal” or “good price” for their client, whether
seller or buyer?
4.
What is their marketing strategy?
A good agent does more than just provide access to
multiple listing services. For buyers, how does the agent
research condominiums in your price range and area?
For sellers, what type and frequency of marketing will
they do? Will it include print advertising, television
advertising, newspaper advertising, social media, open
houses? How much and how often? Get it in writing!
5.
What are their qualifications to represent you as a
buyer?
Is the agent experienced with condominiums
specifically? Are they familiar with the geographic area
you are interested in? Some agents concentrate only
on listing properties; they do not actually market the
property.
6.
Can they provide you with references?
Always ask for the names of at least three references
from clients the agent has represented recently (i.e.
within the past several months).
7.
What percentage of their business comes from referrals?
For a good agent, a large portion of his or her business
will come from satisfied clients who spread the word.
8.
How will they communicate with you and how often?
Some real estate agents prefer to let their assistant(s)
communicate with you; others pride themselves on
personal service.
CONDO ELITE
FALL | 37
LEGAL ADVICE
h i r e a p r o f e s s i o n a l r e a l e s tat e a g e n t
What Agents Do People Recommend, and Why?
Ask friends, family members, and your real estate lawyer
for recommendations – together with the reasons why
they are endorsing that agent in particular. Is the agent
especially informative, knowledgeable and thorough in
reviewing and explaining the documentation? Are they
readily available to communicate in a timely manner?
Whether you are a buyer or seller, you are directly or
indirectly paying a significant fee in the form of the
commission for an agent’s service. Hire the agent best
suited for you! If you have any further questions in
this regard, please feel free to contact me at
[email protected]. A regular contributor,
Martin Rumack has practiced Real Estate Law for over
30 years.
coming in our
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ISSUE
CONTACT US FOR
ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES
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www.condoelite.ca |
38 | FALL
CONDO elite
9.
What distinguishes the agent from others?
Is it their honesty and trustworthiness? Are they particularly
good negotiators? Do they make themselves available to
you when you need them?
10.Can they refer you to other experienced professionals?
These can include real estate lawyers, home inspectors,
trades people, movers, mortgage brokers and lenders,
etc. Tapping into the agent’s connections and can save
you the time and stress in locating the services and people
you need.
11. Will they personally handle the negotiations of the
transaction?
You want an agent who is committed to you, and who will
personally handle your negotiations – not one who lets
their assistant fill that role while they spend significant time
on the golf course or at the cottage. Ask the question!
Belgium
Favorite Romantic Bars
Toronto Christmas Market
Condo Entertaining
Debbie Travis’ Holiday Tips
Holiday Gifts and Ideas
Make a traditional EUROPEAN
wreath
plus market info, news, art and
neighbourhood culture
Condo Elite Modern Living |
@CondoElite
ELITE MARKET
Kandy Outdoor Flooring
Expanding home experiences with new outdoor flooring for condo balconies
We expand home experiences because we’re passionate about
condo living. We believe that as a condo dweller you can enjoy
your outdoor space just as much as your backyard friends.
We do it because we love the outdoors.
We expand home experiences because we believe it helps bring
out the best in everyone. We believe that you deserve to take your
entertaining out to the balcony with just as much pride as you
serve and host inside.
You’re worth it.
We do it all for you. Here’s our process:
DESIGN: Identifying your unique style
DELIVER: Across borders and up elevators
INSTALL: Professional installation
CLEANUP: All you do is enjoy
IT’S THE SWEET TREAT FOR YOUR FEET!
Tel. 416.356.7663
Visit us online to book your in-home consultation
www.outdoorflooring.ca
Anju Virmani
COLOURS IN MOTION – In Conversation with ANJU VIRMANI
A visual artist by choice, painting gives me the opportunity
to explore abstraction. As I am immersed in the multidimensional nature of colour that spans cultures and
civilizations, any boundaries are blurred. I explore the
intimacy of colour, the binary relationship between light and
dark, the lack of boundaries and how the elements blend
together yet stand apart. Interpreting these pieces challenges
the viewer to create a unique experience, invoking the
ability to generate something new from each interaction.
Viewers are challenged to defy the social conventions
surrounding emotions and be free to rediscover raw emotions.
My collectors label my work as “statement pieces” and enjoy
finding different interpretations over time.
Tel. 416.903.5611
www.anjuvirmani.com
[email protected]
CONNECT WITH OUR ADVERTISERS AT CONDOELITE.CA
LAST WORDS
True
builder profile: sam mizrahi
european
Elegance
sam mizrahi
MONIQUE CHARBONNEAU
TALKS WITH
“I wanted to create
an authentic boutique
building with the
elegance of the mid-rise
buildings you see in
European cities”
W
hile shooting our
cover story at the
beautiful showroom
of Mizrahi Development’s, 181
Davenport; I had the pleasure of
meeting Sam Mizrahi. Mr. Mizrahi
was kind enough to share his
inspiration for his beautiful building
which, coupled with its neighbour
at 133 Hazelton (also a Mizrahi
Development) will turn Hazelton
Ave and Davenport into a corner
worthy of any in Europe.
“I wanted to create an authentic
boutique building with the elegance
of the mid-rise buildings you see in
European cities”, said Mr. Mizrahi.
“It was essential to use the curvature
of Davenport in the design of the
building, which makes it feel as if
it has been there forever”. Another
main priority was to have the feel
of a real home, “I wanted to bring
40 | FALL
CONDO ELITE
soul to the building, and this was
paramount in my inspiration”. “We
have used limestone not brick as well
as residential windows, doors and
casings to give the feeling of a house”
With luxury amenities such as
24 hour concierge, fitness centre,
banquet facilities and guests suites,
just to name a few; coupled with
360 degree unobstructed views this
building is sure to impress. It doesn’t
end here, the penthouses are the
most unique offerings, at half floor or
full floor, with tall ceilings, indoor/
outdoor fireplaces and gigantic
outdoor terraces with infinity lap
pools. Mr. Mizrahi achieved what he
set out to do, build one of the most
unique mid-rise buildings with all
the luxuries one could ask for.
Working with architectural
firm Page & Steele IBI Group’s,
Sol Wassermuhl and Gluckstein
Design, Mr. Mizrahi has selected
the perfect team to support his
inspiration to add culture and
elegance to our fantastic city of
Toronto.
Visit the 181 Davenport Design
Centre: Mon-Fri: 9am-7pm,
Sat-Sun: 11am-6pm
Website: www.181davenport.com
Phone: 416.927.0181
Bruno Kurz, Where Are You 2, acrylic & oil on metal, 59 x 59 inches
198 Davenport Rd, Toronto (Yorkville), ON
416.962.0438 or 800.551.2465
odonwagnergallery.com