HF Magazine

10/11/2023

All at once wrapped in Dartmoor’s mossy-hued clutches and minutes from the good-living village of Ashburton, this photographer’s home is a portrait of minimal maximalism that has the River Dart in its backyard.

All at once wrapped in Dartmoor’s mossy-hued clutches and minutes from the good-living village of Ashburton, this photographer’s home is a portrait of minimal maximalism that has the River Dart in its backyard. Botania is an Arts and Crafts manor…

09/11/2023

An inspired dining experience from entertaining powerhouse couple Sebastien and Sheila Centner of Eatertainment Special Events & Catering 🥂

Mussels dinner By Sebastien and Sheila Centner Sheila and I place immense significance on the time we spend in the South of France. Our sojourns over the years have undeniably left an indelible mark on our…

08/11/2023

As the temperature drops, create your own oasis of warmth and luxury: Dive into a world of blissful relaxation with a lavish bathroom retreat and pampering skincare delights

Classic bateaux bath Named after the UK’s river Wye, this classically curved cast iron boat style tub is high sided to retain heat. With grand classical symmetry and the option for sinking deeply into warm water, it’s the ultimate in…

04/11/2023

Infusing a sense of place through product, technique, flavour and aesthetic, Chef Julien Royer’s Odette maintains an award-winning spot on the list of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants.

Odette Restaurant Infusing a sense of place through product, technique, flavour and aesthetic, Chef Julien Royer’ Odette, maintains an award-winning spot on the list of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants. Royer moved to Singapore as a young, classically trained French…

18/10/2023

We’re crushing on Apricot as we head into seasonally cooler temperatures, and early festive preparations. Pundits are still talking lightness, elegance, softness and restraint when it comes to our homes, our cottages and even our day-to-day lives but thankfully, there’s now bit of a zing in the air.

Subtle, limber design features that throw natural light and offer transferability alongside modular seating and spacious uncluttered living areas remain as top drawer stand outs. As does the notion that one size, shape or level of comfort simply doesn’t fit all. Inclusive, universally accessible design is the way to go.

And lucky for us, Apricot Crush is playing nicely. With its trans-season versatility, it strikes a humble balance between yellow and red on the visible spectrum and brings a sense of warming luminosity—the perfect shade to be named colour of the year for 2024.

It suggests that we’re finally moving forward with feelings of generosity, well-being and even a little wit or spontaneity. Apricot Crush also brings with it a sense of variety, fun, stimulation and excitement and there’s the promise of bold statement, eye-catching pieces that will liven things up in a versatile, positive way.

With a restorative vibe and the potential for longevity, Apricot Crush is also said to appeal across fashion, beauty, and consumer tech, not just interiors. Look for braided textures, wood inlays, dynamic visual patterns that are dazzling, infused with colour, and easily adaptable.

So, let’s go orange and catch the wave of refreshingly new and elegant energy that’s coming our way.

24/09/2023

The truth about collagen gummies
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, found in the bones, muscles, skin, and tendons. It forms a scaffold that provides strength and structure within the body. It also gives strength and elasticity to the skin. But as we age, we produce less and less collagen, which is why so many people are turning to supplements, and, lately, gummies. Collagen gummies, however, are but a supplement.

So what should we be doing to naturally support our collagen levels? Well, if our diet contains a variety of whole food proteins at each meal, we can consume the necessary amount of protein to create ample collagen without needed supplementation. Fabulous sources of protein sources include legumes, seeds, nuts, bone broth, organic, free-to-range eggs, pasture-raised meats, and wild fish.

Also, there are other lifestyle factors you need to focus on: consuming enough vitamin C, zinc, and copper, do not smoke, limit alcohol consumption, limit exposure to pollutants, avoid deep-fried foods and processed meats, wear sunscreen, and eliminate added sugar. If your collagen production has diminished so significantly, it may be time to look for a supplement. Collagen Gummies, however, are not the answer. Typically, these gummies are often just glorified adult candies. Better than gummies, is hydrolyzed collagen powder. It will give you all of the benefits without the need to consume an over-processed sugar cube.

Source: mountaintrek.com

23/09/2023

The Finnish secret to happiness
Year after year, Finland tops the world Happiness Index. Possibly, this trend is because Finns enjoy simple pleasures—like clean air, pure water and walking around in the woods—to the fullest. Finnish happiness is the calm and peaceful type; it’s an appreciation for how things work and the ability to pause and admire the little things in life. Why is Finland so happy?

Things work well in Finland according to Visit Finland. Public services run smoothly, there are low levels of crime and corruption, and there is an earned trust between the government and the public. All of this works together to create a functioning society and a culture of looking out for everyone.

Within the Arctic circle in Lapland, the sun stays above the horizon for up to two months—the further north you go, the longer it shines. During this time, everyone is just buzzing with energy.

And, there are 3 million saunas for a population of just over 5 million. This deluge of saunas is the result of Finnish sauna culture—a phenomenon that has even made it onto the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list, highlighting its value in customs and well-being. If you want to understand Finnish culture start with a sauna. For many time spent by one of the 188,000 lakes with a sauna nearby gives plenty of space for everyone to sweat out the negative.

Source: visitfinland.com

22/09/2023

Where are the male sea turtles?
Nearly every sea turtle born on the beaches of Florida in the past four years has been female, according to scientists. The spike in female baby turtles comes as a result of intense heat waves triggered by a growing climate crisis that is significantly warming up the sands on some beaches.

According to the National Ocean Service, if a turtle’s eggs incubate below 27C (82F), the turtle hatchlings will be male. If the eggs incubate above 31C (89F), the hatchlings will be female. Temperatures that waver between the two extremes will result in a mix. Researchers also discovered that the warmer the sand, the higher the female ratio.

“As the Earth experienced climate change, increased temperatures could result in skewed and even lethal incubation conditions, which would impact turtle species and other reptiles,” the National Ocean Service said.

Bette Zirkelbach, manager of the Turtle Hospital in Marathon, Florida Keys, says: “The frightening thing is the last four summers in Florida have been the hottest summers on record.”

The uneven male-to-female ratio is a growing concern among scientists who worry that the sea turtle population will eventually become stunted.

Melissa Rosales Rodriguez, a sea turtle keeper at the Miami Zoo’s recently opened Sea Turtle Hospital, told Reuters, “Over the years, you’re going to see a sharp decline in their population because we just don’t have the genetic diversity.”

Source: The Guardian

21/09/2023

Years ago, the destination spa business was all about heavy duty exercise, calorie reduction and healthy living. The iconic three, Miraval, Canyon Ranch in Tucson and Rancho La Puerta, in Baja were the go to’s.

A review of Canyon Ranch Boot Camp by Homefront's very own travel journalist.

19/09/2023

Well-heeled eco-warriors are pilgrimaging to Petit Coulibri, eager to visit “The Nature Island’s privately owned off-grid resort that’s a unique test bed for sustainable and renewable hospitality projects. As the sun came up, I saw my first hummingbirds…

Well-heeled eco-warriors are pilgrimaging to Petit Coulibri, eager to visit “The Nature Island’s privately owned off-grid resort.

18/09/2023

With a thatched roof that feigns to keep a lid on the joy within, wise ivory chimneys that preside over garden love scenes, and casement windows that look out to the sea at Perranporth, Gwendolyn is perhaps the most charming of wedding venues for a poetic elopement.

Perranporth, Gwendolyn is perhaps the most charming of wedding venues for a poetic elopement.

11/09/2023

Looking to elevate your self-care routine to a whole new level? 🛀💆‍♀️ Let's talk about luxury bathrooms and indulgent self-care products that'll have you feeling pampered like never before!✨

Greek goddess Home comforts are given a modern feel with this sleek space boasting the La Greca print. The soft and comfy cotton bathrobe add to the indulgent feel. versace.com 5 Tips to get the look: 1) Cuddle up…

07/09/2023

With all the buzz surrounding “generative AI” and “large language models” in the tech world, no doubt you’ve heard of ChatGPT, the artificial intelligence-powered chatbot from the Silicon Valley company OpenAI.

Learn about ChatGPT, the artificial intelligence-powered chatbot from the Silicon Valley company OpenAI.

01/09/2023

Unleash Your Inner Chef and Become the Ultimate Host! Elevate your entertaining game with these kitchen must-haves that will impress your guests and create unforgettable dining experiences. Get ready to indulge in gourmet delights and be the life of the party! 🍴✨

Sunshine yellow With cabinets that exude modern style in a range of finishes and elegant lines, this kitchen makes for effortless organization. mandicasa.com 5 Tips to get the look: 1) Be creative, tasteful and imaginative. 2) Set beautiful breakfast and…

16/08/2023

This dreamy Mallorcan farmhouse was recently restored by partners in life and work, Tatiana Baibabaeva and Tyson Strang of design team Terra Coll Home. The couple, who were previously based in New York, have been making sought-after ceramics since 2015, with a growing list of stockists. They’d also long enjoyed travelling throughout the Mediterranean, and had “always dreamed of owning an old stone house one day somewhere in the region”, claims Tyson.

This dreamy Mallorcan farmhouse was recently restored by partners in life and work, Tatiana Baibabaeva and Tyson Strang of design team Terra Coll Home.

29/07/2023

Long established and now part of the venerable Belmond portfolio, these sweet sisters, La Samanna and Cap Juluca, share the iconic island vibe and an endearing commitment to top-notch service and comfortable island-style fine dining.

Long established and now part of the venerable Belmond portfolio, these sweet sisters, La Samanna and Cap Juluca, share the iconic island vibe.

22/07/2023

A surreal step into the future By Marc Saltzman Back to its former pre-pandemic glory, January’s 56th annual Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, Nevada.

04/07/2023

Once upon a time, going to the dentist was high on the list of places most of us really didn’t want to visit. But now, thanks to a vibrant, young Toronto dentist, Dr. Derek Chung, who treats his clients as guests, the dental experience is being redefined. Paste Dental

Hello same day dentistry. Once upon a time, going to the dentist was high on the list of places most of us really didn’t want to visit. But now, thanks to a vibrant, young Toronto dentist, Dr. Derek Chung,…

29/06/2023

Live in a landmark -This 2-bedroom penthouse is the crown jewel of the Oakland, California’s historic cathedral building at 2100 light-filled, square feet.

Shelter / Real Estate

28/06/2023

Partners in life and their company but independently talented, Draga Obradovic and Aurel Basedow’s multidisciplinary studio and workshop for art, collectible design and furnishing items is based in Como, Italy. Known for combining original methods with an artistic approach to materials and composition, they are pioneers in upcycling.

Partners in life and their company but independently talented, Draga Obradovic and Aurel Basedow began their journey by reinventing vintage furniture and objects in their own style.

27/06/2023

At the tip of a quiet garden square in Mayfair we’ve found a privately owned gem of a hotel with fifty fine rooms and an enviable collection of individually styled suites and studios including ROOM by Antony Gormley.

15/06/2023

A peacock fluffs his feathers and a lion flaunts his mane, so why not hold your head high and take credit where credit is due when it comes to showing off your latest kitchen renovation. After all, the collection of European appliances you’ve chosen is nothing short of spectacular. Euro-Line Appliances

By Mark Eglington A peacock fluffs his feathers and a lion flaunts his mane, so why not hold your head high and take credit where credit is due when it comes to showing off your latest kitchen renovation. After all,…

01/06/2023

Your bathroom is your sanctuary – a place to unwind, relax, and rejuvenate. What better way to enhance your experience than with quality products from skincare to lighting, we’ve found some great picks.

Wrap them up kid-friendly and fun, these super-soft bath towels with cute animal hoods capture a child’s imagination.

26/05/2023

In a setting of six and a half acres of tranquil, manicured grounds just steps across the lawn from the renowned Stratford Festival theatre and the historic town, The Bruce, owned by Jennifer Birmingham is a lovely local surprise. During theatre season when celebrities and notables visit; this, I’m told, is where they stay, and with good reason.

In a setting of six and a half acres of tranquil, manicured grounds just steps across the lawn from the renowned Stratford Festival theatre and the historic town, The Bruce, owned by Jennifer Birmingham is a lovely local surprise.

23/05/2023

Partway through tasting a dozen or so alcohol free wines, I realized it was pointless to expect the nonalcoholic Chardonnay to taste like its intoxicating cousin. I was thinking about this experience the wrong way.

I dropped into Clearsips pop up store at Stackt Market. Enthusiastic, but not evangelical, David Thompson the founder is an importer and distributor of what he likes to call “sober beverages.” If you approach their products ‘ab initio’ you will be rewarded.

David and his daughter, Mary guide me. Starting with bubbles: their Odd Bird, Blanc De Blancs and Blanc de Blanc Rose, despite a rather unusual nose was well balanced with a nice mousse sparked with citrus notes and an agreeable acidic bite. Odd Bird trumpets its origin as 100% Chardonnay from Languedoc-Roussillon with added Pinot Noir for the Rose. In a traditional bottle this is one of Clear Sips best offerings.

Odd Bird Low Intervention White #2 a natural wine from three varietals from Alsace including Pinot Blanc and Riesling was lean, well balanced with lemon and citrus flavours.

Switching to beer, Nonny Czech style Pilsner from British Columbia was one of the standouts. Made with
Saaz hops, the traditional Noble hops used in fine European beers and named after the Czech town of Zatec , this was as fine malt beer with a hoppy element. The Irish Red Ale from Montreal based Sober Carpenter was, by contrast, richer with a fuller taste ale profile. Another excellent option.

I tried Clear Sips range of whiskey and gins. On their own underwhelming but
their Monday whiskey from California whipped up into a remarkably satisfying non-alcoholic whiskey sour with an orange ‘liqueur’. There was a depth and length of flavours that even made me forget it was nonalcoholic.

clearsips.ca

20/05/2023

Eating out shouldn’t come with a side of guilt or topping of planet wrecking. Most of us know by now that greenhouse tomatoes are an energy and fertilizer black hole. And I won’t even start about the scarce desert water in the jet setting lettuce. Fortunately, there’s no need for recriminations here.

Forget hair-shirt bland seasonal food. The chefs at Richmond Station make local root vegetables sing. Take the salad of Chioggia (candy cane) beet sourced from Cookstown Greens organic farm. Lightly smoked, the beets explode with sweet flavours enhanced with sheep’s milk ricotta from Sheldon Creek. Topped with chef’s ice wine vinegar dressing this is indulgent, and totally unexpected, in the depths of winter.

How do these folks coax such flavour out of root vegetables? Hayden Johnson, one of the owners tells me it’s simple. Use the best regenerative, farmed local produce. He goes on to share that his kitchen taste tests organic and non-organic produce. Organic wins every time. The soil makes the difference and according to Hayden, not all soil is equal. Even the best local regeneratively farmed soil may not suit all crops. That’s why his chefs visit farms to, literally, get their hands dirty. They even have their own one-acre local garden where cows till the land and crops are rotated.

An indigenous Lake Huron fishery supplies Richmond Station’s fish and entire animals, not just choice parts, are butchered in the restaurant, where every part is used. Which is why I’m happily munching on homemade sour dough focaccia and charcuterie from a sharing plate that includes: Summer Sausage, Beef Bresaola and Kantwurst accompanied by fermented pickled root vegetables. Another not to miss platter is their creamy Nicola heirloom potato salad topped with black truffles. These thin skinned slightly floury golden tubers are astonishingly good.

Fortunately, I’ve saved room for probably the tastiest roast duck breast I have ever eaten. Hayden lets me in on their secret. They only use the more tender female ducks. Brined overnight they dry age the breasts for 10 days. The aging delivers an intense flavour and eliminates the typical chewiness. Served with fried cornbread, heritage carrots, carrot puree and a rich coffee and date jus this is indulgent richness.

And what a desert. Sticky toffee pudding with buttermilk ice cream and wildflower honey sauce. Guilt? Well maybe a little, the best sort.

richmondstation.ca

18/05/2023

A sip of Equinoxe Crozes-Hermitage, startled me with its atypical acidity, savoury notes of olive set off by white pepper. A lovely, quirky, unexpected find. Much like Grand Cru Deli where I tasted this intriguing wine with Master Sommelier and owner Bruce Wallner.

Wallner runs Grand Cru and upstairs the training facility Sommelier Factory for hospitality professionals and keen oenophiles in an appropriate red brick vintage house on Richmond Street West.

Bottles are jammed in on every conceivable horizontal surface. In the eclectic selection, Wallner stocks what he likes to drink leaning from moderate to expensive European wines, many that are biodynamic or natural. These wines are more balanced and reflective of where they are produced, enthuses Wallner. I keep sipping the Equinoxe: it keeps drawing me in with evolving flavours.

I’m like a kid in a vinous candy store. I fossick in the nether corner of the deli and discover a remarkable range of small producer champagnes. Wallner prices wines at or near LCBO levels but charges only a modest flat $18 a bottle corkage. For many wines, he’ll open a full bottle and charge only what you drink. Exploration and education by the glass. Or you can buy bottles to take out.

As I sip my way through remarkable wines I would normally hesitate to order, Wallner drip feeds me wine geekery. (I now know why I prefer Oregon Pinot Willmette Valley from Halton Hills rather than further up or down the valley.) All learning should be this enjoyable. And, there’s food! Chef Sophia Andrade has a petite, interestingly balanced menu. Heavy on snacks and appetizers such as the Spanish style bocadillo sandwich of morcilla sausage with tomatillo, green pepper on a baguette. Or my favourite, grilled octopus lurking under rich black squid ink rice.

Wallner tells me he wants to eliminate the intimidation in wine appreciation and make it open and accessible to all. And that he does. Quirks and all.

sommfactory.com

13/05/2023

Our latest selection of indulgences. Take a peek!

Weisman’s two-seater electric roadster’s backwards looking design and futuristic power train is expected by 2024 in Europe.

02/05/2023

The Onsen bathhouse tradition is alive and well in modern Japan. Besides their warming and therapeutic qualities, they’re believed to possess a mystical and holy powers because of the minerals.

The Onsen bathhouse tradition is alive and well in modern Japan. Besides their warming and therapeutic qualities, they’re believed to possess a mystical and holy powers because of the minerals. Nestled between Japan’s majestic Mount Yufu and the region’s…

12/04/2023

Make your bathroom a wellness destination with these tips and finds to spark joy and indulge

Temple of wellness Lose yourself in beauty, harmony and pure marble prestige. kreoo.com 5 tips to get the look 1) Design your truth—from beautiful whites to eye-popping neon. 2) Well-being and natural should be kept in mind. 3) Opt…

11/04/2023

Who doesn’t dream of a weekend at the Ritz, in the City of Love, where the table is set for magical moments to happen almost serendipitously ♥️

Newly released episodes of “The Crown”, show the Ritz Paris, being sold by the famous hotelier’s widow to Mohamed Al-Fayed. Legend has it, however, that it was actually Charles Ritz himself who sold to Al-Fayed who invested heavily to bring…

29/03/2023

This spring, elevate your every day kitchen experience 🍽️

A kitchen full of possibilities With specialized manufacturing and handmade details, these kitchens are customizable. mandicasa.com 5 Tips to Get The Look: 1) Think location, location, location. 2) Tell yourself mood matters. 3) Re-write your colour playbook. 4) Give…

27/03/2023

lululemon has kicked its way into home fitness. When it’s off, it’s a mirror. When it’s on, lululemon Studio ($995, plus $49/month for membership fee) is an interactive home gym that streams live and on-demand classes from top trainers.

Designed to fit any room and transform two feet of wall space into your personal fitness studio, exercise categories include kickboxing, strength, yoga, cardio, and Pilates.

For up to six household members, the service gives you access to more than 10,000 workouts, says lululemon, including content from partners like Pure Barre, DOGPOUND, Y7 Studio, AARMY, Rumble, and others.

24/03/2023

Dramatic, luxurious and whimsical are just a few of the words we would use to describe the furniture collections from the siblings that founded Indian luxury design company Scarlet Splendour

Dramatic, luxurious and whimsical are just a few of the words we would use to describe the furniture collections from the siblings that founded Indian luxury design company Scarlet Splendour. Combine their pieces with an avant-garde interior designer like Sanjyt…

22/03/2023

Sensational finds for your self-care time 🛁

Blade Runner inspired Tristan Auer’s bathroom concept combines reflective stainless elements with neon lighting. hansgrohe-group.com 5 tips to get the look 1) Design your truth—from beautiful whites to eye-popping neon. 2) Well-being and natural should be kept in mind.…

15/02/2023

Bathroom goals! 😍

Greek goddess Home comforts are given a modern feel with this sleek space boasting the La Greca print. The soft and comfy cotton bathrobe add to the indulgent feel. versace.com 5 Tips to get the look: 1) Cuddle up…

29/01/2023

Perfect to crack open on a cold day 🍷

Perfect to crack open once the weather starts to cool By Natalie MacLean Jacquart Mosaique Millesime Brut Champagne 2008. Champagne A.C., France. (LCBO: 19359, $69.95). Jacquart Mosaique Millesime 2008 Brut Champagne is produced from equal amounts of Chardonnay and Pinot…

28/01/2023

Back to it’s traditional splendour, Montreal’s Maison Birks building on Phillips Street is once again a force to be reckoned with.

By Kylie MacKenzie Back to it’s traditional splendour, Montreal’s Birks building on Phillips Street is once again a force to be reckoned with. In 1879 Canadian entrepreneur Henri Birks founded his jewelry company and opened his first store on St.…

19/01/2023

Throwing a dinner party doesn’t have to be overwhelming if you have the right tools at your disposal. Not convinced? We asked Jason Bangerter, one of Canada’s most renowned chefs, to share a few tips on how to host a stress-free dinner. Having worked alongside some of the world’s leading chefs and currently Executive Chef at Langdon Hall Country House Hotel & Spa Bangerter knows a thing or two about pressure. Here, he deconstructs what it takes to throw an elegant yet easy evening.

By Langdon/Hopson Grace Throwing a dinner party doesn’t have to be overwhelming if you have the right tools at your disposal. Not convinced? We asked Jason Bangerter, one of Canada’s most renowned chefs, to share a few tips on how…

17/01/2023

More chill than in its previous life as a Canyon Ranch outpost, the Carillon Miami Wellness Resort is a peacefully unassuming wellness destination on the North Shore.

The wellness vibe continues More chill than in its previous life as a Canyon Ranch outpost, the Carillon Miami is a peacefully unassuming wellness destination on the North Shore.. “Come as you are and leave as you’ve never been”, say…