Boulevard Magazine - August 2015 Issue by Boulevard Magazine

AUGUST 2015

VICTORIA LIFE AT ITS FINEST

MODERN MAKEOVER

A swanky Songhees reno

DON’T SWEAT THE SMALL STUFF Tips for living in small spaces

CONDOS on the RISE

New development is green, livable and “legato” AUGUST BOUNTY

Relishing the garden’s harvest

PLAYTIME IN WHISTLER

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CONTENTS

Issue 08, Volume XXIlII

AUGUST 2015

FEATURES 20 RISE AND SHINE New condos rising By Angela Cowan

28 DESIGN MATTERS Fab flatware By Sarah Reid

DON’T SWEAT THE SMALL STUFF Small space living By Amy McGeachy

32 34 COLOUR IN THE NUDE Fashion that ignites 52 By Lia Crowe 43 AUGUST BOUNTY Garden fresh food By Cinda Chavich

8 34 GROUP PUBLISHER Penny Sakamoto EDITOR Susan Lundy CREATIVE Lily Chan Lorianne Koch ADVERTISING Mario Gedicke Pat Brindle

20 43

COLUMNS 40 HAWTHORN Meals on wheels By Tom Hawthorn

TRAVEL NEAR Playtime in Whistler By Susan Lundy

FASHION FAVES Jason Binab By Lia Crowe FRONT ROW Boom, Dragon Boat Festival, Integrate Arts Festival and more By Robert Moyes

58 SECRETS & LIVES Lisa Williams, Realtor By Susan Lundy

DEPARTMENTS 6

EDITOR’S LETTER Living the good life In Victoria

HOT PROPERTIES Modern Makeover By Carolyn Heiman

TALKING WITH TESS Suzanne Bradbury By Tess van Straaten

CIRCULATION & Miki Speirs DISTRIBUTION 250.480.3277 CONTRIBUTING Angela Cowan, Cinda WRITERS Chavich, Lia Crowe, Tom Hawthorn, Carolyn Heiman, Amy McGeachy, Robert Moyes, Sarah Reid, Tess van Straaten

Sonora wears the “Bobby” coat ($650) and “Holly” dress ($450) by Judith & Charles, both are available at Bagheera Boutique. Photographed at the Parkside Hotel and Spa by Cathie Ferguson.

ADVERTISE Boulevard Magazine is Victoria’s leading lifestyle magazine, celebrating 24 years of publishing in Greater Victoria. To advertise or to learn more about advertising opportunities please send us an email at info@blvdmag.ca Mailing Address: 818 Broughton Street, Victoria, BC, V8W 1E4 Tel: 250.381.3484 Fax: 250.386.2624 info@blvdmag.ca blvdmag.ca

ASSOCIATE GROUP Oliver Sommer PUBLISHER ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Mario Gedicke 250.891.5627

CONTRIBUTING Lia Crowe, Don Denton, PHOTOGRAPHERS Cathie Ferguson, Leanna Rathkelly

Victoria Boulevard ® is a registered trademark of Black Press Group Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the publisher’s written permission. Ideas and opinions expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of Black Press Group Ltd. or its affiliates; no official endorsement should be inferred. The publisher does not assume any responsibility for the contents, both implied or assumed, of any advertisement in this publication. Printed in Canada. Canada Publications Mail Product Sales Agreement #42109519.

EDITOR’S LETTER

Living the good life in Victoria  BY SUSAN LUNDY

PHOTO BY DON ARNOLD DENTON LIM

N THE 1950’S, my dad bought two waterfront lots in Victoria’s Ten Mile Point for a “song and a dance” (far less than one per cent of their value today). He sold off one piece fairly quickly (if only he’d waited half a century!), but I grew up on the water, catching minnows and poking crabs in tide pools and scrambling over barnaclecrusted rocks. Every year it seemed, a telephone call would go out and the whole neighbourhood would run down to the point to watch killer whales breach and pffff their way by. In my kaleidoscope of childhood memories swirls a bit of magic: day trips to Old Town at the museum, Miracle at Sealand, Polly the Parrot at Beacon Hill Park. The Oak Bay Tea Party and Saanichton Fair sandwiching summer days clambering over the sea serpent at Gyro Park and building castles in the sand at Willows Beach. I can hear the squeak of the dock at the yacht club, and the tinkling sound of the masts on our various sailboats. I can smell the varnish that I painted on my wooden dingy, which I called Spunk. Growing up in Victoria — with the ocean as my playground and the city’s beautiful parks as my backyard — makes me one of the lucky ones. And now, add in a burgeoning food scene, a revitalized downtown, mild winters, eco-consciousness and a population that’s growing younger, and Victoria becomes one of the best spots in Canada to live — something others are catching on to. Among the odd press releases that appear my inbox is one from U-Haul announcing that once again Victoria has made the top-10 list of one-way U-Haul truck rentals in Canada for the past calendar year. “While migration trends don’t correlate directly to a city’s population or economic growth, they are a strong gauge as to how well cities are attracting new residents,” it states. “It’s the Venice Beach of Canada. People come here for the lifestyle, amenities and standard of living,” according to

realtor Dallas Chapple. She and I recently drank coffee and chatted about Victoria real estate — a commodity that is resurging after a post-recession dip in the last few years. In fact, the Victoria Real Estate Board shows a 33.8 per cent increase in real estate sales this June (910 sales) over the same month last year (680), plus a steady increase every month so far in 2015. In this issue of Boulevard, we take a look at one trendy aspect of the real estate market — condo and smallspace living. In “Rise and Shine,” writer Angela Cowan profiles developer Bijan Neyestani and Alpha Project Developments’ newest condo project, Legato (page 20). Home designer Amy McGeachy provides tips for living in tight spaces (page 24), and Hot Properties writer Carolyn Heiman tours a beautifully renovated Songhees townhouse (page 8). As Dallas Chapple points out, “Condos are bookends: young people start out with them, and we often end up with them. They offer an easy care lifestyle.” Realtor Lynne Sager agrees, “The market will keep moving into more condo development. Baby Boomers are downsizing, and many young buyers are so busy that they do not want yard work on weekends.” There’s a lot more to read in this issue of Boulevard as you enjoy your wonderful Victoria lifestyle: food writer Cinda Chavich offers some excellent ideas for dealing with excess garden bounty (a typical “problem” in this region); columnist Tom Hawthorn reveals an international smorgasbord of mobile kitchens; and regular columns profile Jason Binab, Suzanne Bradbury and Lisa Williams, all movers and shakers in this city. Also have a look at August entertainment in Front Row and embark on a little excursion with me to Whistler. And in between all this reading, go on out there and enjoy this fabulous city. I recommend tide pools and the sea serpent at Gyro Park.

GROWING UP IN VICTORIA .... MAKES ME ONE OF THE LUCKY ONES.

OUR CONTRIBUTORS

Tom Hawthorn COLUMNIST: MEALS ON WHEELS, PAGE 42

With Tom’s ambition of being a flâneur in Paris thus far thwarted, he makes do with perambulations in Victoria. His curiosity (nosiness?) has him poking into other people’s lives. This month, he meets a couple whose mobile canteen feeds passersby, and discovers a food truck also fuels a dream. Tom, who is a widely published newspaper and magazine writer, has been a Boulevard columnist for five years.

“As creative director of Boulevard’s fashion section I never tire of the process. Fashion never plateaus, every season there’s something delightfully new. Each location we shoot at brings a certain feeling and when the clothes go on the model and she steps into that feeling, a story emerges and that’s the juice.” Lia Crowe Lia Crowe is a stylist, writer, FASHION DIRECTOR, photographer and can now say COLOUR IN THE NUDE, mother to a teenager. PAGE 36

Boulevard Buzz For grant lovers: The Victoria Foundation is accepting applications for its Community Grants program until Aug. 11. Last year, the program provided nearly $1.5 million to 86 non-profits on Vancouver Island, bringing the total granted by the Victoria Foundation to over $144 million since 1936. For music lovers: The 26th annual Victoria Symphony Splash takes place August 2 in the Inner Harbour, complete with Tchaikovsky’s 1812 and fireworks For jewellery lovers: Fans of Ann-Louise Jewellers will be happy to learn that the popular store is reopening its doors at Hillside Centre this August, following the mall’s renovation. The store is known for its top-line engagement rings, diamond jewellery and brand-name watches such as Gucci and Tissot. Pandora Jewellery will be available there as well. WE LOVE HEARING FROM YOU We welcome your letters: editor@blvdmag.ca or visit us on Facebook and Twitter for updates and links to featured stories and local events.

Your Style. Our Expertise.

21 SHOWROOMS IN BC: Victoria • Langford • Duncan • Nanaimo • Parksville Courtenay • Campbell River • Vancouver • Surrey Richmond • Port Coquitlam • Abbotsford • Chilliwack Kelowna • Vernon • Penticton • Kamloops • Castlegar Salmon Arm • Terrace • Prince George

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HOT HOTPROPERTIES PROPERTIES

MODERN MAKEOVER SWANKY NEW LOOK FOR A SONGHEES TOWNHOUSE  BY CAROLYN HEIMAN PHOTOS BY LEANNA RATHKELLY

HE PREVIOUS OWNERS OF A SONGHEES TOWNHOUSE didn’t even recognize it after being invited back to see its top-to-bottom renewal. “They weren’t sure it was the right place [although they had lived there 20 years],” says new owner Rob Blackwell. And it’s small wonder that their recall synapses got a jolt. Right from the threshold of the front door, the alterations erased all trademarks of yesteryear — like peach and mauve colours, white melamine cabinetry, shiny gold pulls, carpets, small rooms and dated wallpaper. The space has been completely rethought from how it is used to how it fits with the outside environment. The former cubbyhole entryway is now bright and offers a welcoming view to the principle public areas. Go one step farther and the main floor — once cut up into smallish rooms that sabotaged the panoramic vista — is now airy and draped in a warm, transitional style, imbued with comfortable ambiance. The kitchen, completely reconfigured by Claire Reimann, certified kitchen designer for Jason Good Custom Cabinets, carries on the theme of easy elegance. “One of the challenges was to fit in every appliance [and the Blackwells wanted them all — from steam oven through to built-in Wolf coffee maker], have them in a good, functional location and still maintain enough storage space.” Reimann adds the island’s subtle L-shape mimics the kitchen shape, allowing more than two chairs to be seated around it.

 In the kitchen, a message centre (located away from food prep) provides a space to charge cell phones, leave keys and write memos and grocery lists on a chalkboard.

 In the owner’s bathroom, soft , slip-resistant basket tiles create a warm visual embrace, and well-thought-out details include a storage tower in the centre of a framed mirror, a magazine rack at the end of the vanity and lighting around the toe kick.

“ONE OF THE CHALLENGES WAS TO FIT IN EVERY APPLIANCE, HAVE THEM IN A GOOD FUNCTIONAL LOCATION AND STILL MAINTAIN ENOUGH STORAGE SPACE.” “It serves more like a table as it gets wider at the end. When you have a prep sink in the island you don’t want to be sitting right at the sink.” Arlene Blackwell grew up in Victoria but her adult life has mostly been spent in Vancouver where Rob has built a successful machine and fabrication manufacturing business. With close family ties on Vancouver Island, the couple wanted a second home in Victoria, which could become the gathering place for large family events. But they didn’t want to double up on house maintenance, and focused on finding a condominium or townhouse instead. Many design decisions — like making the cramped entryway larger by removing the closet and installing practical coat hooks for easy-come-and-go access — were made in anticipation of entertaining. Even the choice to install a counter-height bar off the kitchen island and include full-back leather chairs, considered the comfort of elderly parents who no longer want to hike up to tall bar stools. 10

Arlene and Rob were very hands on in terms of selecting the soft taupe and rich brown colour palette, furniture and accents for their new home-away-from-home, which replaces a high-maintenance, luxury, 64-foot yacht they’ve since sold. “I was tired of being a yachtsman, and Arlene would be slaving just to get the boat ready [for cast off],” says Rob. They now have a smaller runabout boat that gets them on the water without all the fuss. Meanwhile, they embraced the renovation project as a joyful shared experience, finding fun in making all the decisions together, easily agreeing on most things and finding happy compromises elsewhere. Getting better waterfront views guided many decisions. In addition to opening up the main floor, the couple selected swivel chairs that turn to provide 360-degree views from the living room, television lounge area and kitchen. A curved television monitor allows for great

viewing from side angles; they can glance at the non-stop Inner Harbour activity without turning away. In his career as owner of Charger Engineering Limited, Rob “builds a lot of cool stuff ranging from utilitarian sawmill equipment through to amusement rides.” That creativity continued to the home front — if they didn’t find what they wanted in a showroom, they were happy to have it custom made. Looking back, they reflect that it did take a leap of faith to buy the townhouse. “I didn’t have a good visual of what it might look like when I first came into it,” says Arlene. “It was very dated and in many places the view could only be seen in glimpses.” But it was spacious compared to many more recently built condos and townhouses, and seeing another unit in the strata that had been re-done opened their eyes to the possibilities. Another advantage is the two-car garage, something not always offered in newer townhouses and condos in

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central locations. This permits Rob to have access to some of his collectible hot rods and classic cars while away from their primary residence in Vancouver. It was the couple’s first renovation and the experience was a positive one, something they credit to taking ample time to consider what they wanted to do before signing any contracts. In fact, they permitted the seller to stay rent-free in the home for almost a year while they took pleasure in checking out lighting, plumbing and other supplies to help formulate their vision for the place. “It’s unbelievable how much evaluation we did,” says Rob, adding, “It was a lot of fun.” The research paid off as they have complete confidence about every decision they made, right down to the satin nickel fixtures in the bathroom picked for “their nice glow,” and through to the distressed white oak engineered flooring that will stand up to the high traffic from large family gatherings. They devoted considerable time reviewing potential contractors and placed a priority on having quality work done. “I knew we needed an honest contractor with an open purchase agreement,” says Rob. “I didn’t want anyone cutting corners … Your contractor is your biggest and most important decision.” Initially content to keep things minimalistic — a complete departure from their self-described “overstuffed”

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Carolyn Heiman explores beautiful Victoria-area homes each month for Boulevard magazine. Let her know about a gorgeous home you’d like to see profiled by contacting her at cheiman@shaw.ca 13

TALKING WITH TESS

DEVELOPING A NEW STORY  BY TESS VAN STRAATEN

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SUZANNE MIKE BRADBURY TOM BENSON BLACK Fort Properties Co-founder and CEO (Chief Capital Iron CEO Experience Officer) of WildPlay Element Parks 14

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OTHING SAYS SUMMER LIKE getting out and enjoying the outdoors. And thanks to Fort Properties owner Suzanne Bradbury, we can do that in the most unusual places. “When we decided to open Fort Common to the public last summer, we wanted to have some fun and support our amazing tenants. It was also an opportunity to ‘place make’ — create an intimate hidden place that’s easy on the eye, and which the community can enjoy,” says Bradbury, who took over the family business with her sister Jayne four years ago. With a mission to “create space that contributes,” the sisters have turned Fort Properties’ parking lot into a summer living spot again this year for use by area businesses and residents — developing an urban oasis in the middle of a concrete jungle. “Did we do it to make money immediately? No, we’re relinquishing the parking revenue for those months,” Bradbury explains. “But we really take a long view to community-building and in the long-run, it will help our business plan.” That business plan — for the third-generation family business that focuses on property ownership, management and development — includes such core philosophies as putting people first, making healthy choices easy and choosing collaboration over competition. “We choose collaboration over competition whenever possible because there’s so much to be gained by connecting with each other and sharing resources. And you find synchronicities and inspiration when you attract others that have values aligned with yours,” Bradbury says. “It may take a while for you to see the results of your efforts, but I think it builds resilience into your business system.” For Fort Properties, which was previously called Fort Realty, it’s a business model that already seems to be paying off. While other downtown Victoria landlords deal with high vacancy rates, Bradbury says, they have businesses coming to them, wanting in. “We believe we all rise together so another person’s success takes nothing away from our ability to succeed,” she says. “We’re cultivating something that is much more satisfying than just serving one bottom line, so that’s why we take a triple bottom line to our work — we value people, planet and profit equally.” Another example of that value system at work, and

creating a “space that contributes,” was the launch of a “parklet” in the 700 block of Fort Street in June. With the aid of a healthy communities grant, two parking stalls were replaced with a patio and seating for the public to enjoy. “Our goal is for these places to act as community catalysts, fostering a sense of a belonging,” Bradbury says. “Our theory is that it’s good for the block, the area businesses and the downtown community as a whole.”

“I TRULY BELIEVE THAT VICTORIA IS ON THE CUSP OF A RE-BIRTH.” To help build her dream for a better city, Bradbury also recently took over as chair of the Downtown Victoria Business Association. The mother of two says there’s so much entrepreneurial talent in town, and people are working so hard to contribute to the community, it’s a pivotal time for the BC Capital. “I truly believe that Victoria is on the cusp of a re-birth and it’s almost like we’re developing a new story,” Bradbury says. “We have a great past but it’s not the whole story anymore so our challenge now is to expand the story of Victoria beyond tea and roses to something that better encapsulates what we are today, and what we have the potential to become.” Given her passion for business and the “built environment” (the human-made space in which people live, work and recreate on a day-to-day basis), it may be surprising to learn that, with a master’s degree in counselling psychology from UBC, Bradbury comes from a mental health background. Her younger sister and partner Jayne Bradbury, an epidemiologist, also worked in health care before the two took over the business. “It is unique and I think we definitely bring those values to real estate development,” Bradbury acknowledges. “There’s a lot of really exciting research coming out of the United States which is looking at how the built environment can impact human health and well-being for the better — the idea that cities can be good for you if they’re well designed and promote a sense of belonging.” For the Bradbury sisters, success is also about taking risks and they’ve adopted a French phrase — nous avons ‘non’ dans notre poche, which means, “we have ‘no’ in our pocket” — as a reminder to be open to new ideas. “What that translates into for us is to remember the value of an exploratory attitude and to be willing to try stuff out because at the very worst, you’ll just be back where you started — so why not try?”

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TRAVEL NEAR

PLAYTIME IN WHISTLER AT AN ELEVATION OF 1,000 METRES, WE STEPPED CONFIDENTLY FROM A TREETOP PERCH AND PLUNGED ONTO THE TOUR’S 300-METRE-LONG ZIPLINE.  BY SUSAN LUNDY

Dual zipline: first zip on the Eagle Tour at Whistler’s Ziptrek Ecotour.

T’S EARLY JUNE AND worlds appear to be colliding in Whistler Village. Mountain bikers decked out in helmets and riding gear, carrying bikes on their shoulders, head to the Whistler Village Gondola to access world-renowned alpine and forest bike trails. Also wandering about the village are goggled snowboarders, boards in hand, and likewise heading to the mountain, ready in their case to play in the last few days of snow. While the two sports seem incongruent in the same place at the same time, Whistler — known by most as a top-notch winter ski destination — appears to be the perfect summer playground as well. Just ask me. I’m walking jauntily through the village with four other women as part of the “Eat. Play. Love. Ultimate Girls’ Getaway” at the beautiful Nita Lake Lodge. While the word “spa” initially caught my eye, I’m feeling pretty exuberant (and darn proud of myself), having just completed two hours of ziplining with Ziptrek Ecotour. Initial trepidation overcome, the five of us flew over valleys, through treetops and above winding rivers. At an elevation of 1,000 metres, we stepped confidently from a treetop perch and plunged onto one of the tour’s newest, 300-metre-long zipline. Between ziplines, we crossed treetop suspension bridges and stared out at the views from towering

wooden platforms (Wondering initially if, at 50, I’m too old for such frivolity, I asked one of our two charming Aussie guides the age of their oldest ziptrekker. “Eighty-eight,” I was informed. Heck! I’m a ziplining spring chicken.) But ziptrekking (which also includes educational chitchat on local flora, fauna and sustainability efforts) is just one of many summertime activities at Whistler. There are numerous hiking trails — chose winding paths along forest floors or lakeside walkways and even mountain glaciers — white-water rafting, bungee jumping, horseback riding, mountain climbing and ATV excursions. And, of course, the Peak 2 Peak gondola experience is an exhilarating must-do for everyone. Access to Whistler is a cinch. I float-planed into Vancouver Harbour and walked a few blocks to the Fairmont Vancouver Hotel, where a Pacific Coach Lines bus picked me up, offered me stunning visuals out the window on the Sea-to-Sky Highway (the book I brought remained in my bag) and deposited me right at the doors of Nita Lake Lodge. Another woman in our group took a PCL bus directly from the airport (a two-hour trip), while the others drove up from Vancouver — also easy. The entrance side of the grand, chalet-style Nita Lake Lodge was a hub of activity, making my lakeside room a surprising contrast with its tranquil views over the

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 Dock and view over the lake at Nita Lake Lodge in Whistler.

still, sun-sparkling water. Lodge visitors can choose from spacious studio rooms and luxurious one or two bedroom suites, or go all out and rent the 1,415-square-foot Rainbow Suite, featuring a private elevator, double soaker tub and a full-size dining room. There’s complimentary equipment for water activities — canoes, kayaks, paddleboards — plus bikes and daily on-site yoga classes. We drank lavender-inspired cocktails on the sunny, edge-of-the-lake patio at Cure Lounge, and feasted at Aura Restaurant, which lived up to its promise of a serving a seasonal menu that is “locally focused and globally artistic.” Turns out, fabulous food is the concession stand of the Whistler playground. A definite highlight of our stay was a five-course, wine paired dinner at Araxi, Whistler’s “culinary cornerstone,” recognized internationally for its gourmet deliciousness. I believe I ate some of the finest seafood ever to caress my palate, and I left clutching Chef James Walt’s popular Araxi cookbook (but don’t expect too many miracles emerging from my kitchen).

Also memorable was the signature drink at Stonesedge Kitchen. There, the swinish Caesar, which features baconinfused Finlandia Vodka and a meaty bacon straw, drew round-the-table accolades from our group. Our next adventure involved roaring up the side of Blackcomb Mountain on ATVs with Canadian Wilderness Adventures. Great views and loads of dusty, dirty fun. (A particularly satisfying moment occurred as we zoomed by a sweating cyclist. I figured I’d probably hit peak terrain, breathe in the view and be lying prone in the spa by the time he crested the summit.) Some of our group met what they called an “empowering” challenge of mastering the ATVs themselves, others like me, rode tandem with a guide. And then finally — the spa! The Girls’ Getaway comes with a four-hour Nita Spa Day, including Swedish massage, facial and mani/pedi. Post ziptrekking, ATVing and gorging on bacony Caesars, this was one of the best massages I’ve ever had, and adding to the experience was use of the rooftop hot tubs and a

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FEATURE STORY

RISE & SHINE NEW CONDO DEVELOPMENT IS GREEN, LIVEABLE AND “LEGATO”

 Showroom for Legato, a new condo development in downtown Victoria.

 Bijan Neyestani of Alpha Project Developments.

“WE ARE THE TRUSTEES OF OUR COMMUNITIES.”  BY ANGELA COWAN PHOTOS BY DON DENTON

S WRITER MAYA ANGELOU once said, “The ache for home lives in all of us.” And in a time when commuting and relocating are the norm in many careers, that ache is stronger than ever. Finding a place to put down roots can feel like a holy quest in a city where there is a marked housing shortage. But luckily, Bijan Neyestani has a knack for delivering just what Victorians need. Since co-founding Alpha Project Developments in 1999 with his brother-in-law and colleague Fred Rohani, Neyestani has been behind some of the most inviting multifamily residential projects Victoria has seen. Aria at 737 Humboldt Street and The CityPlace at 827 Fairfield Road both brought home Awards of Excellence from the Victoria Real Estate Board, and The Mondrian — Alpha Project Developments’ most recently completed feat at 1090

Johnson Street — was close to being sold out as of last month. Neyestani’s sense of the market is grounded in decades of experience, having worked in the business for many years with Rohani before they founded their development company. Both men have engineering backgrounds, plus building and real estate experience, so Neyestani and Rohani understand the needs of the many professionals instrumental in creating projects of great magnitude — from the big-picture consultants and architects to the work-booted builders with concrete dust on their hands. “We have a small infrastructure, but we’re very hands on,” says Neyestani. “Our expertise compliments each other. [Rohani’s] the field guy; I’m the office guy.” The two men have combined their expertise most recently to create Legato, a condominium building with street-level retail at 960 Yates Street, which broke ground last month.

An Italian word meaning “tied together,” legato is a musical term for notes that flow smoothly in sequence, moving effortlessly through song or voice without pause. The poetry of the term seems to fit. “The connection to the building is, I think, quite appropriate,” says Neyestani. Each of the 88 condos in the building flows into the next, using gentle curves to create a feeling of seamlessness — leading to the added bonus of creating spectacular views from most balconies and decks. It’s a clean and light design, largely the brainchild of Lynn Gordon-Findlay, project architect, and part of the design team, who also helmed the design of the Mondrian. Legato is straying into new territory as well, as it takes over the space where clothing store Philip Nyren Menswear stood fast for 10 years. Rather than simply demolish the building and start anew, however, 21

it has been meticulously taken apart to recover as much material as possible. “Our intention is to recycle everything,” says Neyestani. “We decided to really spend a little more time to salvage everything we could.” And take their time they did. From beginning to end, it took nearly a month and a half to deconstruct the existing building. It’s a commitment to working “green” that carries more than just environmentalism. “These buildings will be here long after we are gone, so I think it’s a social responsibility that you really deliver responsible projects in your neighbourhood community,” says Neyestani. “We are the trustees of our communities.” Aside from re-using and recycling building materials from the existing site, the new project also includes an electric car charging station, secured bike storage, rooftop garden with a water wall and an extensive recycling facility on site, as well as numerous green building strategies to increase efficiency, reduce heat loss and improve fresh air flow. And being so close to the heart of downtown, Legato brings a whole host of amenities within a fingertip’s reach, reducing dependence on car travel. Parks become your front yard, local eateries your entertaining lounge. “Especially these days, when the living spaces are becoming smaller, the neighbourhood becomes an extension of your living room,” adds Neyestani. “Our aspiration is for these buildings to become vertical

communities that can really affect the livelihood and vibrancy of the community, so you feel that sense of belonging.” And the condos aren’t just designed for young professionals; a full two-thirds of the suites in the 18-storey building will have two or three bedrooms, offering just a little more space than what’s been on the market recently, and opening up the Victoria core to more families. With room for displays of Lego creations, couch lounging with a favourite movie, or pyjama-clad Sunday crosswords in the sun, these are homes that are meant to be lived in. Ask Neyestani where he finds his inspiration, and he lets out a short burst of laughter. Granted, it is a big question. After 30 years in the business, it’s not a single source that stokes his creative flame, he says, but the culmination of many designs, many lessons, many sparks. “Every project you do, of course you make mistakes,” he says. “And you learn from your mistakes, and it’s a long process. I think we have been in the learning mode since we started the partnership.” His words echo the sentiments of Michelangelo — “I am still learning” — and speak to the desire that Neyestani and Rohani share to continually improve and perfect their additions to the Victoria skyline. “It’s quite an organic process, and that’s what makes it enjoyable,” says Neyestani. “Even after all these years, we’re still learning.”

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DON’T SWEAT THE SMALL STUFF  BY AMY MCGEACHY

 Large mirrors, light paint colour and shelving to the ceiling make a small space feel larger.

HERE IS SOMETHING TO BE SAID for choosing to reside in a home with a smaller footprint. While it isn’t for everyone, living in a smaller space has several perks, including a reduction in home maintenance, the chance to join a close-knit condo community, an affordable way to live in a luxury location, or a way to get into the real estate market. While the perks can out-weight the disadvantages, there comes a certain set of challenges with living in a tighter space. However, if you’re armed with the right set of solutions, you can make your small-space living dream come true.

FUNCTION: Every inch of your small space counts. Not only does everything need to have a place, but it must also serve a purpose. If you are short on sleeping quarters, or simply don’t want to devote an entire room to a spare bedroom, 24

a sofa bed, wall bed or chest bed is a great option. They all tuck away when not in use, and hide or serve as another purpose for day-to-day living. There are many options available to best suit the space and size of the room. A Murphy bed can double as a desk or bookshelf when not used for sleeping, while a chest bed can become the anchor piece under your TV in the den.

SCALE: Remember to choose smaller pieces that accommodate the size of the room, and use of the space. Consider a small sectional or sofa chaise instead of the standard matching sofa and loveseat set. This allows for more people to lounge comfortably at one time. Many furniture stores now offer custom options. If you need a sofa to be six inches shorter, many stores can get the manufacturer to accommodate this, without substantially increasing the price.

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Also, consider using the vertical space in the room. By carrying a built-in shelf to the ceiling, or opting for fullheight upper kitchen cabinets you can provide more space for storage or display in your home, while drawing the eye upwards and making the room look larger. Just make sure that you don’t overdo it. If you introduce too many bulky, heavy pieces to the space, it can actually make the room feel claustrophobic and small. Look for smaller scale pieces that don’t waste precious space.

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STEALING ADDITIONAL STORAGE SPACE IS KEY IN A SMALL HOME. Resist the urge to display many items. Less is more, and a small area can feel very cluttered when too much is occupying the space. Instead, focus on highlighting the view, or placing a key furniture piece, like your family’s antique armoire or a well-travelled chest.

STORAGE: Stealing additional storage space is key in a small home. I try to use furniture to add extra spaces to hide away winter sweaters or extra linens whenever possible. Many beds can be purchased with full drawers underneath for maximum storage space. It’s like getting the capacity of an extra chest of drawers, but in a space that is usually just wasted. A storage ottoman, used as a bench or coffee table, provides a great opportunity to not only have more hideaways for your items, but it can also double as extra seating for your guests. 26

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People often wonder why so many artists, musicians, and highly skilled crafts people live in Sidney and on the Saanich Peninsula. Is it the beautiful environment, the laid-back life style, or other factors that make the area such a haven for creative people? No one will ever know for sure, but the richness of the visual and performing arts is truly remarkable. The Community Arts Council of the Saanich Peninsula (CACSP) is the heart of the arts community. With a mission to encourage public awareness and appreciation of the cultural life on the Peninsula, CACSP offers and supports events throughout the year: the Spring and Fall Studio Tours, the Artisans Show, and the Sidney Fine Art Show are but three examples. The Community Arts Centre at Tulista Park is also home to rotating exhibits of local artists’ dynamic work. The Saanich Peninsula Arts and Crafts Society (SPAC) is another key arts organization. With almost 400 members, the Society’s annual art show attracts visitors from far and wide. The Mary Winspear Centre, a state of the art community centre, offers an extraordinary mix of cultural events throughout the year, showcasing music, dance, and theatre performers from around the world. The Centre also houses one of the most outstanding exhibits of First Nations and Canadian art from across Canada, featuring the First Nations, Metis & Inuit Art Show in August. The high quality of visual work is also evident in many of

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LIFE & STYLE

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JASON BINAB

OUTSIDE OF REAL ESTATE, I love all things cycling. You get to see a lot: you can go from here to Sidney to Shawnigan and see the beauty of this area. Driving in a car is not the same — [cycling], you get to take in the sounds and the smells. You come to like the torture [of riding] because it makes you stronger and fitter. But while you’re doing it, you’re always questioning. You think, ‘Why the hell am I doing this? This hurts, I’d much rather be in bed.’ But then when you’re done, you’re like, ‘That was awesome, I’m so glad I did that!’” I photographed Jason in the Uplands and the only tricky part was not getting distracted by the fact that 32

Husband, father of little ones, and an incredibly hardworking realtor (who never compromises integrity) — in any leftover time, find him clad in spandex on the sexiest bicycle ever.

practically every person who passed by, stopped to say “hi” to Jason. Jason is one of those guys who, if you’ve lived in here for say … more than a minute ... you’ve probably heard his name. He grew up here, was one of the stars of the local TV show Design District and through his business cultivates an insane amount of community, not just through advertising and social media, but through social engagement. He supports multiple charities and sponsors a cycling team through Trek bikes. He has coached sports and possesses a genuine love of talking to and connecting with people.

“I definitely get a high in the deal,” Jason said, after being asked where “the juice is” in his work. “It makes me feel good because I’m helping somebody. I don’t care about the commission; it’s about the relationship. I take pride in my client’s values, look after their interests and take genuine care.” He’s a fellow fan of The King of Pop and a true ‘90s man (which I just made up, and means he was fully formed before texting existed). He didn’t hesitate to give recognition to his wife, Amber Binab, as a huge contributor to his successful business and life. He says he likes to talk, but I would go one step further and say he’s a master in the art of conversation.

Fashion

Uniform: Jeans, collared shirt and either a blazer or a cardigan. “I have a few suits but I’m not much of a suit guy. I still want to look good but looking good is also feeling good.” Jeans: Baldwins or Wings + Horns. Shirts: “I like the look and feel of Strellson or Matinique.” Current go-to item: Light blue Strellson blazer. Coveting: Black Panerai watch. Shoes: John Fluevog black ankle boot. Sunglasses: Justins by Ray Ban Grooming Necessary indulgence: “Hair product,” he says, laughing. “The one I use is from Victory Brand; it’s in a brown bottle, it’s very thick — if you feel my hair it doesn’t move. My hair is naturally thick so it’s gotta be something strong to hold it.” Who cuts your hair: Crystal at Victory Barber. Scent: “Polo Sport and Givenchy, but my favourite is classic Dolce & Gabbana.”

Style Inspirations

“GOOD STYLE IS SOMEONE WHO OWNS IT.”

Celebrity or public figure who inspires your style: “When I was young I loved Michael Jackson, I had the jacket and the glove. I loved how he was a storyteller ... his videos were like a movies, and I was drawn to that. Nowadays, I’d probably like the presentation of somebody like Ryan Gosling: he seems to dress well but he’s not an always-in-a-suit kinda guy.” Musician: “Michael Jackson. David Gray — I think he’s got one of the best voices in the world and I’m surprised he’s not bigger in the US than he is. He’s such a good live performer.” Film: “Scarface is my favourite movie of all time. I also love Minority Report, it was so forward thinking.” Era: The ‘90s. “Nowadays it’s so tough because everybody’s on cellphones all the time and texting and not talking. I come from a generation where people talked to each other. I like to talk and I like people and now it’s not very personal. In the ‘90s you had nothing but a pager. I feel like we got to know each other better.” Life Album on current rotation: “Michael Jackson’s greatest hits, my favourite is Earth Song. I also love Dirty Diana and Smooth Criminal. David Gray’s White Ladder and Ed Sheeran.” Favourite local restaurant: Il Terrazzo. Beer: Beck’s. Favourite City: New York. Fav tech: The Apple watch. Fav print magazine: Boulevard. Last great read: Playing with Fire, autobiography of Theo Fleury.

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Jacket ($425) and skirt ($265) by Judith & Charles and available at Bagheera Boutique; necklace ($198) and earrings ($34) by Loren Hope and available at Violette Boutique.

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THE RICHLY SATURATED RANGE OF RED TONES EMERGING THIS FALL IGNITES WHEN PAIRED WITH THE CLASSIC AND SUBDUED HUES OF NUDE.  BY LIA CROWE PHOTOS BY CATHIE FERGUSON

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CREDITS: Model: Sonora Angelina, represented by Charles Stuart International Makeup and Hair: Vanessa Rolland (vanessa.rollandmclean@hotmail.com) Styling assistant: Aubrey Grondin-Young Photographed on location at The Parkside Hotel & Spa in their City Club Lounge

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FOOD TRUCKIN’ IT IN VICTORIA  BY TOM HAWTHORN

N A STEAMY SUMMER’S lunch hour, a global gastronomical tour was on the agenda. From Mexico, tacos. From New Orleans, jambalaya. From Eastern Europe, perogies. From our own waters, fresh wild salmon off the barbecue. For dessert, from Italy, gelato. All washed down with fine local craft beer. This international smorgasbord can be found every day this summer in Newcombe Square, the hidden patio at the rear of the Royal B.C. Museum. The square is the site of a food truck rodeo featuring Deadbeetz, Pig BBQ Joint, The Love Perogy, Puerto Vallarta Amigos, Wild West BBQ Salmon and A Streetcar Named New Orleans. I’ve always been a sucker for food on the go. When I was 10, we were among the first tenants to move into a new high-rise development in Toronto. The building was still under construction, so a coffee truck pulled up every morning at 8 a.m. The driver, a woman, opened the passenger side of the truck to display a snacker’s cornucopia of chips, cookies, Danishes, sandwiches, hard-boiled eggs and chilled cans of pop. Steaming black coffee gushed from a spigot attached to a seemingly bottomless stainless-steel urn. To this day, a certain rhythm of horn honking — a beep, beep, BEEP to alert workers on the job site — has me salivating like one of Pavlov’s pooches. A mobile canteen inspires dreamers and schemers who love the idea of working an open kitchen on the open road. Fred Jacobs was a German-born, classically trained chef who settled in Victoria after hitchhiking across Canada in 1967. He opened a small restaurant in Esquimalt but had a fast-food brainstorm — he would cook chicken inside the truck and bring dinner to your door. In 1970, he converted a one-ton camper into a kitchen and went into business as Uncle Fred’s Chicken on the Run. The menu had only three items — fried chicken, fried potatoes

and coleslaw. Word spread about the delicious food served piping hot at the door. Jacobs bought a second truck, then a third, and sold franchises as far afield as Saskatchewan. Alas, the energy crisis of the early 1970s made gas prohibitively expensive and Chicken on the Run stalled as a business proposition. Uncle Fred wound up as a cook on the ferries. Sarah and Billy Rieger, both 37, have more modest ambitions. They own and operate the New Orleans food truck, which serves Crescent City staples as filé gumbo, red beans and rice, muffaletta and po’ boy sandwiches. Jambalaya is a Friday special. Sarah was born in Calgary and raised in East Texas; Billy is New Orleans born and earned a degree from Louisiana State University in mechanical engineering. Billy decided after graduating that what he really wanted to do was cook Cajun and Creole foods. He worked in the kitchens of Brigtsen’s and Pêche, two acclaimed Big Easy restaurants. Life in a mobile kitchen is anything but easy. Just getting the 1991 GMC P3500 truck was an adventure. It was purchased in Wyoming, and then driven to Victoria where it was re-outfitted with a new kitchen. The end result is good grub on wheels and a livelihood to support the couple’s two infant daughters. The Riegers are glad to have settled in for the summer on the museum’s backyard patio. “It’s a great location,” she said. “Though I wish more locals knew where we are.” One of the bonuses of being your own boss is you can tweak your own menu. Fans of the Canadian television program “Littlest Hobo,” they came up with a special item for Canada Day called the Littlest Po’ Bo’. Billed as being “more Canadian than Rick Moranis playing hockey against a moose,” the sandwich featured Canadian bacon topped with a dollop of Kraft Dinner. Who says there’s no Canadian cuisine?

A MOBILE CANTEEN INSPIRES DREAMERS AND SCHEMERS WHO LOVE THE IDEA OF WORKING AN OPEN KITCHEN ON THE OPEN ROAD.

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August BOUNTY FOR FOOD LOVERS, AUGUST MAY BE THE BEST MONTH OF THE YEAR. IT’S THE MONTH OF BOUNTY. THE GARDEN IS FILLED WITH FOOD — MASSIVE SQUASH HIDING IN THE TANGLE OF VINES, BUNCHES OF GREEN BEANS TOUCHING THE GROUND, TREES LADEN WITH FRUIT.  TEXT BY CINDA CHAVICH

Apple Berry Crisp (photo courtesy of Touchwood Editions).

FOOD & DRINK

E LIVE IN A TIME AND PLACE of abundance when it comes to fresh, local food. And while it’s a blessing, it can also be a curse. In fact, thanks to today’s access to abundant and cheap food, we have become a generation of wasters. The UN estimates we discard $1 trillion (US) in food every year — $31 billion worth in Canada, alone. In North America, a full 40 per cent of the food that’s produced is wasted, half of it tossed out of our own kitchens. All the while, other people are starving, or living in urban “food deserts,” finding it hard to access and afford fresh produce. Factor in the damage to our air and oceans, and food waste is a pressing environmental issue, too. As an entity, food waste is the the third largest emitter of greenhouse gases in the world, after China and the US, and a major contributor to global warming. We’re also wasting precious fresh water, burning fossil fuels, depleting soils and straining the world’s resources, all to produce food that goes straight to the dump. Food waste has become such a huge global issue, governments here and abroad are now legislating against it.

WASTE WARRIORS

and storage (or processing), followed by distribution to organizations that feed the hungry, or sold at deep discounts to low-income families. Other groups, like LifeCycles, help reduce waste by organizing volunteers to pick fruit or harvest vegetables from city gardens, and then share it with both homeowners and those in need. LifeCycles is also working on a local farm project this summer, aiming to determine how food from farms and farm markets could be saved. Even businesses are getting on board with the idea of reducing food waste. At The Root Cellar, ripe or scarred produce is culled several times daily, offered at deep discount to thrifty customers, and sent to The Rainbow Kitchen and UVic’s student-run Community Cabbage to feed hungry people. Scraps, from cornhusks to carrot tops, go to local pig and chicken farmers to feed animals.

IT CAN BE EASY TO BE OVERWHELMED BY IT ALL. BUT WITH A LITTLE PLANNING — AND PERHAPS A PICKLING OR PRESERVING GET-TOGETHER — YOU CAN MAKE SURE THAT FOOD BOUNTY GETS INTO THE BANK FOR FUTURE WITHDRAWALS, AND NOT INTO THE TRASH BIN.

As of this year, Vancouver and Victoria instituted a ban on food waste — no household or business, grocer or restaurant, can dispose of food scraps in the regular waste stream. All must be separated and collected for composting. The government of France recently went one step further, passing a law that bans grocery stores from throwing away unsold food. It must be donated to charities first, then to farmers for animal feed or compost. Violators face fines of up to €75,000. Here in Victoria, Rotary Clubs have joined forces with the Victoria Foundation, Thrifty Foods and up to 40 local agencies, including The Mustard Seed, the Salvation Army and St. Vincent de Paul, to form a Food Share Network (FSN) designed to waste less and feed more. “This is a CRD-wide food rescue project,” says Rudi Wallace, director of food security for The Mustard Seed. “We waste so much fresh and healthy food, while people are going hungry.” The Rotary Club is hoping to raise $100,000, which will be matched by the Victoria Foundation, to develop a food rescue facility — a place where farmers, grocers and restaurants can bring excess food for refrigeration

SAVE FOOD YOURSELF

Consumers are the largest contributors to food waste, and while composting is better than sending food to the landfill, reducing food waste at home is the key. If just one quarter of what we now throw away globally was saved, we’d have enough food to feed 25 million people. And the average household could save more than $1,500 a year by using, rather than tossing, perfectly edible food. One study estimates that businesses can reduce operating costs by 15-20 per cent by reducing food waste. “We are already rescuing some food but as much as 3 million pounds of fresh food is wasted in the CRD alone,” says Wallace. “My objective is to rescue all of it — it’s a moral imperative and an economic imperative.” It’s an issue that I’m passionate about, too — so passionate, in fact, that I just wrote The Waste Not, Want Not Cookbook (Touchwood Editions) to help people learn how to stop wasting food at home. For those whose gardens are overflowing in bountiful August with fresh beans, zucchini and apples, here are some recipes from my new cookbook.

GREEN BEANS Store your freshly picked beans in a perforated plastic bag in the fridge for up to five days, or blanch two minutes, chill in ice water, drain well and use a vacuum sealer to package for freezing. 43

TOSSED SALAD NICOISE PREP 15 MIN COOK 25 MIN SERVES 6 This potato and bean combo is a tossed version of that classic composed salad. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also a great way to use up leftover grilled salmon or tuna. 1/4 cup reduced-fat mayonnaise 1/4 cup low-fat sour cream or plain yogurt 2 tsp Dijon mustard 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil 4 cloves roasted garlic (or 1 tsp fresh garlic, pureed in a press) 1 tsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped 2 Tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice (plus some grated lemon zest) salt and freshly ground black pepper 2 pounds small new red or yellow fingerling potatoes, scrubbed 1 cup fresh green beans, steamed lightly and chopped 2 to 3 green onions, chopped 1 can solid white tuna (packed in water) or canned sockeye (bones removed), drained and broken into chunks (or a cup of leftover diced grilled tuna or salmon) 1 small head butter lettuce, leaves separated, washed and spun dry 1/2 cup tiny grape tomatoes, halved 1/2 cup Nicoise olives 1 egg, hard cooked, peeled and chopped 1 Tbsp fresh parsley

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In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream or yogurt, mustard, olive oil, roasted garlic, rosemary, lemon juice, zest, salt and pepper. Put a steamer basket in a large saucepan and add about 2 inches (5 cm) of water. Put the potatoes in the steamer basket and steam until tender, about 15 to 20 minutes. Cut into chunks and add the warm potatoes to the dressing in the bowl; toss. Add the green beans to the steamer and steam until just barely tender, about 2 minutes. Rinse under cold tap water to stop the cooking process, and chop into bitesized pieces. Mix the beans, green onions and tuna into the salad, being careful not to break up the potatoes. Cool to room temperature or chill (bring back to room temperature before serving). To present, line a wide bowl or deep platter with lettuce leaves and arrange the salad on top. Scatter the grape tomatoes and olives around the edge of the salad, pile the chopped egg on top, and sprinkle with parsley.

APPLES Don’t let that perfect fruit spoil on your backyard tree. Contact a gleaning group like LifeCycles to help you pick it, then make pie. Store apples in a cool place, around 34 F (1C) for long storage.

APPLE BERRY CRISP PREP 1 HOUR COOK 45-55 MIN SERVES 6-8 Apple Crisp is a simple dessert that’s even better if you add a handful of berries. Use tart apples and any berries that are in season. 3/4 cup sugar 2 Tbsp honey 1/2 tsp cinnamon 1/4 tsp nutmeg 3 Tbsp brandy, Calvados or Grand Marnier 2 cups blueberries (or substitute blackberries, strawberries, cranberries or sliced rhubarb) 5 large Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced 2 Tbsp flour

Topping: 3 Tbsp butter, softened 1/4 cup whole wheat flour 1/2 cup rolled barley or oats 1/2 cup brown sugar pinch of salt 1 tsp cinnamon In a large bowl, mix the sugar, honey, cinnamon, nutmeg and brandy and add the sliced apples. Toss to coat the fruit with spices and set aside to marinate for an hour, until the fruit releases its juices. Stir in the flour and pour into a buttered shallow baking dish. In another bowl, combine the flour with butter and brown sugar, mixing to form coarse crumbs. Stir in the oatmeal, and add the salt and cinnamon. Spread the oat mixture evenly over the fruit in the baking dish. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Set the baking dish on a baking sheet (this will save your oven if any juice runs over) and bake 45-55 minutes, until bubbling and golden brown. Serve the crisp warm with vanilla ice cream or lemon yogurt.

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ZUCCHINI

½ cup shredded Pecorino cheese

Pick your zucchini before it gets too big, and share it with friends. Reduce the crop by picking blossoms to stuff and fry Italian style, or shred zucchini to freeze in 1-cup portions for zucchini breads and cake.

In a sauté pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium high heat. Add the sliced onions and cook for about 10 minutes, until soft and beginning to brown. Reduce heat to low, cover pan and sweat 10 minutes. Remove lid and sprinkle with sugar. Continue to cook, stirring, until onions are nicely caramelized. Set aside. Drizzle a teaspoon of olive oil into a shallow gratin dish and arrange one third of the zucchini in the dish, overlapping in concentric circles. Top with half of the caramelized onions. Add a layer of sliced tomatoes, a third of the minced garlic, a little thyme, salt, pepper and about ¼ cup of bread crumbs. Repeat layers twice, ending with ½ cup of crumbs and the remaining 1½ tablespoons of olive oil. Bake in a preheated 350ºF oven for 1 hour. Drain any excess liquid, top with cheese and bake another 20-30 minutes until bubbling and browned.

ZUCCHINI GRATIN PREP 35 MIN COOK 1 HOUR SERVES 4 In summer, serve this fresh vegetarian dish warm or cold. 1 large onion, thinly sliced 4 Tbsp olive oil, divided ½ tsp sugar 3 pounds small zucchini, sliced 6 Roma tomatoes, thinly sliced 6 cloves garlic, minced 1 tsp chopped fresh thyme leaves salt and freshly ground black pepper 1 cup bread crumbs Optional topping: 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese

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Boulevard magazine supports Southern Vancouver Island's top Realtors representing the region's finest real estate. We hope you will find your next home, whether it is in the listings of the Great Homes/Great Realtors or here in the Boulevard Luxury Real Estate listings.

WELCOME TO THE UPLANDS. Over 5000 sq ft, BRAND NEW west coast/ modern home infused with classic elegance & timeless finishings. 14,000 sq ft lot with south west exposure, near Uplands Park, Estevan Village & 1 minute to Willows Beach. Inside features a 22 $2,295,000 ft vaulted ceiling, hardwood Jason Binab floors throughout main, and Cell: 250-589-2466 Engel & Völkers® high end SS appliances. binabpropertygroup.com 2760 Lincoln Road MLS 352751

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BINAB GROUP

ARCHITECTURAL WEST COAST DESIGN. This 1980 home has been updated to meet the demands of modern living. A very versatile & unique floor plan that offers 2798 sq. ft of family living. A main floor bdrm that could easily be a master with walk-out patio into the back garden or the perfect area for “mom”. The updated $875,000 kitchen has an eating area with an adjoining family room and Sharen Warde & Larry Sims attached sun room that leads 250-592-4422 out to an absolutely fabulous wardesims.com back garden & patio area (the perfect size for an outdoor kitchen). MLS# 353383

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$499,000 Susanna Crofton RE/MAX Camosun-Oak Bay 250-370-7788 BCSelectHomes.ca

IMPRESSIVE & LUXURIOUS custom home in a prestigious setting just minutes from Sidney & close to the airport & ferries! 5 bedrms/ 5 baths with lovely spaces for both entertaining & family living! Sunny & private .5 acre property includes expansive patios, hot tub, gardens & ocean views… 3 car garage & tons of storage too! 1825 Marina Way

ELEGANT & BRIGHT describes this lovely condo in the vibrant waterfront community of Selkirk. 2 Bedrooms + Den and 2 Baths over 1210 sqft of wellappointed design by Concert Properties. Floor to (over height) windows. Master suite with luxe bathroom and his/ her sinks. Fab-foody kitchen! Adjacent to Galloping Goose Regional Trail system: walk/ cycle to downtown or kayak/ harbour ferry! Rental & Pet friendly. MLS # 351940

VIBRANT OCEAN GROVE, with spectacular views of both Victoria & Olympic Peninsula. WALK one block to the beach, DELIGHT in this bright top floor 2 bed/ 2 bath 1600 sq ft condo. ENTERTAIN on the 235 sq ft balcony or RETIRE to the master suite with spa-like bathroom. A terrific INVESTment: rentable, family & pets. More info: BCSelectHomes.ca MLS# 353209

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FRONT ROW  BY ROBERT MOYES

 Woven blanket by Inuit artist Stephanie Papik.

ABORIGINAL ART AND CULTURE The First Nations, Inuit & Métis Art Show is the longestrunning event of its kind in Canada, and has evolved into an impressive showcase for indigenous art as well as an opportunity for cultural sharing and awareness. The show features up to 50 artists who live locally; they represent not only the area’s Coast Salish peoples but also a wide spectrum of more distant nations including Mohawk, Blackfoot, Cree, Ojibway, Navajo, Métis, Inuit and others. “There are many nations of First Peoples living within the Coast Salish territory, but the art we all create represents our own unique culture and traditions,” explains Tobias 52

Tomlinson. A potter with ties to the Chickasaw First Nation, Tomlinson is a member of the FNIM Art Collective that presents this event. Aside from some photography and painting, there will be many examples of aboriginal culture such as beadwork, antler and bone carvings, leatherwork, jewellery, mask and plaque carvings, pottery, weaving and fabric, painted drums, engraving and repoussé — what Tomlinson refers to proudly as “fine crafts.” Four different workshops as well as music performances and poetry readings are also included. “The show is very immersive, and every day there are two artists on site who act as docent/ambassadors who talk to visitors as well as doing their art work,” says Tomlinson. He suggests that it would take at least a couple of visits to

Coming up

Twist & Shout

Conceived & Written by Alex Mustakas Orchestrations & Vocal Arrangements by Robert Foster

Jun 12 - Aug 29

James and the Giant Peach

By Roald Dahl Dramatized by Richard R. George

Jul 18 - Aug 15

Confessions of a Paperboy

By Doug Curtis

Aug 19 - 29

Luxurious Theatre Getaways

theatre, dinner & breakfast with accommodation at the Best Western Plus Chemainus Inn

 Wolf, acrylic on canvas, by Virgil Sampson of the Salish nation.

truly appreciate all that is on offer. “We’re expecting up to 5,000 people to come by,” he adds. “We’ve grown a lot in seven years.” Running from August 8 to September 3 at the Mary Winspear Centre, 2243 Beacon Avenue. For information, see First Nations, Inuit & Metis Art Show 2015.

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| chemainustheatre.ca

Savour the Taste of Summer

RETURN OF THE DRAGONS Although the sport of dragon boat racing goes back 2,000 years in southern China, the modern international version only began in Hong Kong in 1976. Victoria joined the party two decades ago, and every August since then the Inner Harbour comes alive with adrenaline and high spirits as over 80 teams compete for bragging rights — and the opportunity to fundraise over $100,000 for cancer. “It’s also a cultural event meant to bring the community together,” says Mark Mawhinney, who is entering his third year as chair of the Dragon Boat Festival Society. “Plus it’s a great way to celebrate our Asian roots.” According to Mawhinney, the Victoria harbour is one of the best race venues on the circuit. “The 500-metre sprint starts at Laurel Point and heads towards the Empress Hotel where the spectator bleachers are right at the finish line,” Mawhinney explains. “It’s intense and thrilling … and it’s the only race in the world that happens in a working harbour.” Over 80,000 spectators gather over the course of

Brewmaster’s Long Table Dinner Wednesday, August 19, 5 to 9 p.m. Set in the gardens of the English Inn, enjoy a four-course seasonal dinner prepared by Food For Thought Catering while sipping award-winning beer from Vancouver Island Brewery. TICKETS: 250-383-7191 or victoriachamber.ca

 Riders in a past Tour de Victoria.

the weekend, watching up to 2,500 paddlers — nearly half from out of town — compete in several heats from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. They can also check out the entertainment on two stages, or grab a bite in the Forbidden City Food Court. “And the sport really is accessible to anyone,” adds Mawhinney. “Some are people who can’t even walk, and last year we had a team of first-time paddlers who were all women from age 65 to 70.” Running from August 14-16 at the Inner Harbour. For information, see Victoria Dragon Boat.

ART ON THE MOVE Back in 2007 a $20 budget was enough to kick-start the Off the Grid Arts Festival, an “art crawl” that invited the interested public to pull on their walking shoes and explore this city’s small galleries and artist-run centres. These days, the budget is substantially bigger and the event itself — rebranded in 2012 as the Integrate Arts Festival — has tripled the number of venues and become much more ambitious about promoting an overall awareness of the art scene in Victoria. The current roster of galleries — such as the Fifty Fifty Arts Collective, LUZ Studios, Couch and Art Atelier 546 — has become more expansive and now includes venues as mainstream as the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria. “We have a large population of artists who need somewhere to show their work,” says festival director Jennifer Paquet. “This event attracts several hundred people, and allows our artists to network with the public and with each other.” After a Friday night reception and party, the crawl happens on Saturday, and participants can walk, bike, or ride a double-decker bus that loops through 54

an eight-stop circuit and is meant to give access to the harder-to-reach galleries. There will be off-site special events such as performance art pieces and a unique “yarn bombing” where talented knitters and crocheters create an art installation on the spot. The festival also offers Sunday art demonstrations, as well as music and dancing, all at Market Square. “People can either pick up a route brochure at participating galleries or check out our website,” adds Paquet. Running from August 28-30. For information, see Integrate Arts Festival.

THE WHEEL DEAL Victoria has produced few sports heroes to rival Ryder Hesjedal, the world champion mountain biker who made the switch to road cycling and has gone on to perform impressively in marquee events such as the Tour de France and Giro d’Italia. Eager to popularize the sport he loves, Hesjedal five years ago initiated the Tour de Victoria, a “mass participation” recreational biking event with three separate routes that range from 45 to 140 kilometres and which cater to all skill and fitness levels. Attracting over 1,000 riders — with lots coming from all across Canada and as far away as Europe — the Tour features vehiclefree lanes where every intersection is traffic controlled so the riders can concentrate solely on enjoying themselves. “The experience we offer is unique; it’s like what an elite rider gets,” says Tour director Seamus McGrath. “Plus we have incredible riding conditions — this is some of the best road cycling in North America and people just love it.” The Tour includes five “feeding zones” along the route,

as well as embedded mechanical teams ready to handle any breakdowns. Plus there’s a big festival at the end where participants can savour all the high spirits and camaraderie — and imbibe some Spinnakers ale at the beer garden. And for those who just want to watch? “In some sections of the course the riders pass by for several hours so it’s great for viewers,” says McGrath, who estimates that 10,000 cheering fans take in the show from the roadside. “This is a huge spectator event,” he adds. Happening on August 23. For information on routes and registration, see Tour de Victoria.

EXPLOSIVE ENTERTAINMENT With well over 200 shows scheduled between now and May 2016, Rick Miller’s Boom will be the most produced play in Canada this upcoming season. It’s the most ambitious work yet from Miller, a gifted writer and virtuoso performer who is acclaimed for his one-man plays MacHomer and Bigger Than Jesus. A unique “stage documentary,” it shows the genesis of the baby boomers and how that youth-centric era formed an unprecedented merger of politics and culture. Spanning 25 years — from Hiroshima in 1945 to the Apollo 11 moonwalk in 1970 — Boom chronicles world events such as the Cold War, Beatlemania, the Kennedy

 From Rick Miller’s Boom.

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NO TIME FOR BED REST

 Bed races on Beacon.

assassination, and the Vietnam War. To tell the story, Miller vocally impersonates over 100 characters, ranging from Gandhi to Martin Luther King. “The boomer narrative is the DNA of my culture,” explains Miller. “And by putting the smaller stories of my parents into the show, it gives it some human perspective and prevents it from being just a history lesson.” During the performance, Miller stands onstage inside a circular scrim onto which newsreels and other images are projected. Adding to the multi-media circus, he ties it all together by performing his own soundtrack, 28 tunes spanning Hank Williams to David Bowie. “It’s a pretty high-energy performance,” admits Miller with a laugh. Running from August 4-23 at the Belfry Theatre. For tickets, call 250-385-6815.

Although hospital beds typically evoke ideas of rest and recovery, that notion flies out the door when Sidney’s Rest Haven Lodge unleashes its second annual “Bed Races on Beacon” fundraiser for its Palliative Care Unit. The course spans just over 100 metres on Beacon Avenue, between Fifth and Third Streets, with 25 teams competing two at a time in several heats until a final race determines the grand champion. Although it’s unlikely to become an Olympic event, pushing a hospital bed at high speed down the street while wearing a (mandatory) silly costume is a crowd-pleasing lark that brings out the wacky in participants and spectators alike. “Shenanigans are a big part of it,” laughs Brenda Hennigar, executive director of the Rest Haven Foundation, who recalls how last year’s concerns about keeping the competitors hydrated got wonderfully out of hand as various teams — and even some spectators — became involved in an elaborate water fight. Initially projected to make about $10,000 from entry fees and fundraising initiatives, the inaugural event raised more than double that. And it was also hugely successful at drawing a crowd. “It was like for a parade, with both sides of the street jammed with a few thousand people,” adds Hennigar. “The event is fantastic fun.” Happening on August 16 in Sidney, from noon to 3:30. For information, see Rest Haven Foundation.

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SECRETS & LIVES How long have you been involved in real estate, and what drew you to the job? I’ve been selling real estate since 1990; it was just the obvious thing to do!

What do you love most about your work? I love the challenge of putting together a complicated deal, and I tend to thrive under pressure. You really have to think on your feet and get creative sometimes to make things happen. And, of course, I’ve met so many amazing people along the way — there’s never a dull moment!

You specialize in unique properties. Can you think of the most unique property you’ve sold? I’m proud to have represented some of the most incredible homes in Victoria, but I think sometimes people assume that the most expensive homes are the most beautiful. I get just as excited about discovering an exquisite little cottage, or something unique, creative and unexpected.

LISA WILLIAMS Realtor: waterfront and unique property specialist

 BY SUSAN LUNDY

Nice to meet you, Lisa Williams. You are a third generation Victorian! What part of Victoria did you grow up in, and what high school did you attend? Yes! I’m lucky to have all my close family still in Victoria. I grew up in Cadboro Bay and went to Glenlyon Norfolk and Mt. Douglas.

Who is your family? I come from a family of entrepreneurs/builders/developers; I still run into people who worked for my grandfather, Ernie Butler, decades ago, and it is so amazing to hear how he made a difference in their lives with the way he did business. 58

What do you love most about living in Victoria? PHOTO BY DON DENTON

with

We are truly blessed to live in such a beautiful city, the ocean access, mountain vistas, the convenience and accessibility — and the friendly vibe!

You are an avid boater … what are some of the most spectacular west coast places you’ve visited by boat? Growing up we spent summers boating in Desolation Sound and the Gulf Islands, places that are still so pristine and untouched even today: Evans Bay, Squirrel Cove, Robertson Lake to name a few.

You are also a champion in the equestrian world. What can you tell us about that? I’ve had a love of horses all my life and I’m lucky to have had the opportunity to compete at a high level with some very special horses … it is a challenging, rewarding and humbling sport!

Where do you turn for advice? I still call my parents for advice, and yes, they are still usually right! My husband also has so much knowledge and experience related to real estate. It is a really small community and there are so many amazing, professional people who are willing to help each other. This is another of the other reasons I think Victoria is so special.

What has life taught you? Well I hope there are more lessons to come! But … be humble, be gracious, be grateful; and work harder than anyone else.

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