Style Sheet

Exclusive Video: A Regal Library for Down-to-Earth Rod and Nat

Elana Safronsky — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 02:28:00 GMT

Did you enjoy that Epi? (As in 'Episode'?) When Alicia and I visited with the couple, the library wasn't quite completed, so I enjoyed this evening's reveal along with the rest of you. And what a transformation! They hadn't even stained the built-ins yet, nor was the fire place affixed in its place, and looking back to their excitement and expectations, it was cool watching the room materialize just as they said it would.

Fireplace and library Before

In our little video below, Alicia, myself and camera guy Earl stood amidst the crew, marveling at that fireplace mantle which was stripped from having been painted white. I've stripped furniture before but only the legs or arms of a chair, which is nothing compared to that entire mantle... I was curious to know if professionals do it differently, and asked one of the crew what he did and how long the job took -- see what he says below!

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Getaway Question of the Week: Hotels: Comfort and Amenities Or Charm and Character?

Vanessa — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 17:31:00 GMT

Until recently, a hotel room like the modern pink and turquoise one below was my absolute ideal. That is until I visited Costa Rica and was treated to the rustic charm of the lovely room with the tiled floors and floaty curtains below. While it's nice to be treated to Egyptian cotton sheets, king-size beds and huge showers once in a while, I'd give up luxury for cozy warmth, even if it means finding a spider in the bathroom!

Suite at the Gansevoort South, South Beach Miami

Suite at Casa Romantica, Nosara, Costa Rica

Which do you prefer: ultimate luxury or charming rustic comfort? Take a Poll and leave your answers below!

Hotels: Comfort and Amenities Or Charm and Character?online surveys

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Spring Schedule: New Shows, New Seasons, New Episodes!

Alicia Cox — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 17:00:00 GMT

Our new spring schedule starts today Monday, March 8! There will be new seasons of your favourite shows (Sarah's House and Home To Flip, anyone?), new shows to get you hooked, as well as new episodes of shows like Holmes Inspection, Dear Genevieve and For Rent. So let's get into it, shall we? Please note that some dates are for April, not March.

New Shows

The Outdoor Room with Jamie Durie premiering Tuesday March 9 at 8pm ET

With a client roster that includes A-list celebrities and five-star hotels, Jamie Durie is one of the most well-renowned and sought-after landscape artists in the world. Unable to bring his own Australian design team along, Jamie has put together a new team of top-notch designers, horticulturists and contractors. They're thrilled to be working with a world-class visionary, but can they keep their jobs? Jamie's demand for perfection can be intense, and he puts his new team through the ringer. The challenges come fast and furious, like creating an ultra-hip Thai meditation room replete with koi pond, and then doing it on a 45-degree angle on the side of a hill for a boss who won't take "no" for an answer.

Curb Appeal: The Block premiering Tuesday March 16 at 8:30pm ET

HGTV's Curb Appeal travels to Atlanta to help beautify homes on the same block with a variety of makeovers. In each episode of Curb Appeal: The Block, designer John Gidding, contractor Chip Wade and project manager Kimberly Lacy overhaul one home's exterior with a makeover so dramatic it's no longer considered the neighborhood eyesore but the envy of the block. Next, they make their way up and down the street to repaint front doors, add window boxes and provide smaller-scale makeovers that create instant impact and increase the value of the entire block.

Relocation: Phil Down Under premiering on Friday April 9 at 9:00pm ET

I know, it's not till April, but get ready for more of our favourite British bloke! Phil Spencer goes in search of ideal homes for British families relocating to Australia. Each week Phil helps a British family moving abroad to Australia by looking at the properties, jobs and culture available in different regions. He also helps them work their way through the Australian property system by surveying, valuing and then negotiating a deal to secure their new home. The series profiles some of Australia’s most amazing properties including penthouses, old aboriginal dwellings, secret cliff hideaways and beach houses.

New Seasons

Home To Flip premiering tonight, Monday, March 8 at 9pm ET

Host Peter Fallico is back with another season of the real estate-meets-design reality series that gives viewers the inside scoop on how to find, buy, renovate and flip a house for profit. In each episode he'll share his tips and tricks for success: how to find the right property; which renovations make the most sense; how to source materials off-the-beaten-track; and how to best present the house in order to make a profit. Each episode will also feature one of Peter's signature design projects, a carpentry/contracting project, a beautiful reveal of one room and, of course, tons of money-saving tips and design and decorating advice.

Sarah's House premiering Tuesday, March 9 at 9pm ET

Sarah Richardson has literally bought the farm! In season 3 of Sarah's House, designer Sarah Richardson goes country for an entirely new experience. Cameras track Sarah, design partner Tommy and contractor Vito as they tackle the renovation of a country place and build a new addition, bringing modern sense and personal style to the entire space. Sarah demystifies the entire renovation and design process, balancing wants and needs, headaches and sweat equity to help you create the home you’re after!

Dear Genevieve (all new season 3 starts Tuesday, March 9 at 9:30pm ET)
For Rent (all new season 3 starts Monday, April 5th at 8pm ET)
Property Shop (all new season 2 starts Wednesday, April 7th 8:30 ET)

New Episodes
House Hunters International (starting Friday, March 12 at 8pm ET)
Holmes Inspection (starting Thursday, April 15th at 8pm ET)

New Time

Marriage Under Construction moves from Mondays at 9pm ET to 9:30pm ET

Related:

Live Blogging Tonight at 9:30: Marriage Under Construction, Episode 10

Elana Safronsky — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 14:28:00 GMT

Remember that painted portrait of Rod I posted in my last video exclusive? Well I found the actual photo! It was taken for TheStar.com, and now it all makes sense. Alicia and I thought Rod looked like Common the rapper in this painting, but we see now that it was not an artistic whim. He looks like that in the photo. I love when life's little mysteries reveal themselves...

Anyhoo, we'll be seeing more of the jokester newlyweds tonight at 9:30pm (NEW time slot), and I'll be here for the live blogging of the episode, as we've been doing all season. If you've not done so already, it's good times! Rod and Nat, and even Melissa the designer -- "Your Designer Friend" -- often drop in on the conversation and answer your questions! We'll see if they stop by tonight... Also, I've another installment of my and Alicia's video exclusive to follow immediately after the episode, so please stay tuned for that.

To blog along for the ride, simply click on "Make a Comment" in the window below (which will appear as soon as the episode starts) and make sure to check out last week's chat. You can also follow some of our comments from tonight's session on Twitter @hgtvcanada. See you tonight!

Episode 10: The next chapter in Rod and Nat’s renovation story is the library. With Rod delayed up North due to weather, the design plan meeting has been postponed for a couple of days. Melissa walks Steve through the plans and he gets a jump start with demolition. Melissa wants to spice up the room with some art, but before she can adorn the walls she must get an idea of their tastes. A comic-book store visit helps her out. Rod’s dad also contributes to the space with a surprise, belated, wedding gift. Will Melissa’s design and Steve’s craftsmanship get their approval? Will the couple decide to move out of the frat house (again) or wait until the completion of the kitchen? And, perhaps the most vexing question; will Rod be able to master the skill saw?

Related:

Sarah Richardson March Makeover Madness!

Alicia Cox — Sat, 06 Mar 2010 14:35:00 GMT

Can you feel the excitement building? Everyone's favourite designer (and HGTV's #1 host), Sarah Richardson, has a new season of Sarah's House starting this Tuesday, March 9 at 9pm ET/PT! This time, Sarah hits the country and buys a farmhouse to overhaul in her signature style. Design partner Tommy Smythe and faithful contractor Vito Colucci will be along for the ride and since I've had a sneak peek, I can assure you that it's top-to-bottom gorgeous.

To celebrate Sarah's return, we're playing Makeover Matchup all month long on our Facebook fan page. Each week, I'll post photos of two rooms, from seasons 1 and 2. Vote for your favourite and by the end of the month the four top rooms will face off to find out which Sarah space is the ultimate fans' choice. I'll reveal the weekly winner every Saturday here on Style Sheet.

Round 1: The basement/games/media room from season 1 vs. the above ground family/games/media room from season 2. And the winner is...

The basement/games/media room from season 1! I have to admit, I thought the basement factor would deter some fans from voting for it. Here's what some folks had to say about the winner:

Visit our Facebook fan page to find out which rooms will battle it out on Monday in Round 2. And if you're on Facebook and Twitter, but you're not a fan or follower, won't you join us?

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Top 5 Friday: Hot Hosts, Part 2: The Ladies (And an Apology to Bryan Baeumler)

Elana Safronsky — Fri, 05 Mar 2010 19:36:00 GMT

Clockwise from the top: Sandra Rinomato, Sarah Richardson, Samantha Pynn, Cheryl Torrenueva, Kate Campbell

So, I knew this was going to happen: Bryan Baeumler fans got all up in my space about not having included him in last week's Top 5 Hot Male Hosts. I know this because Bryan jokingly mentioned that he's been inundated with 'hate mail' for me, for my oversight...

Let me explain. Obviously we all recognize that Mr. Devilish-smile-Baeumler is by no means underwhelming in the looks department. We just feel it's a bit close to home to openly admit ogling him when we've met his wife, been to his house (details coming to Style Sheet soon!), and keep in contact with him on a regular basis. It's kinda like being honest is much easier with people you don't know or have never met before, than with your friends and acquaintances, who'll probably judge you every time they see you. So, I hereby apologize for not indulging you, the many, many, many ladies and gents who like themselves a little Bryan Baeumler. Yes, he is a good looking man.

Now, onto the ladies. And while there are men who work here who have weighed in on the subject, the following are really a representation of women you, our viewers and readers, have commented on over the years... So if you disagree, you only have your fellow fans to blame...

1. Sandra Rinomato of Property Virgins

She's one sassy lady. You either revel in her tough love or you resent her for seeing right through your entitled ways, but in either case, there's a growing international enthrallment with the woman who really was just a good real estate agent before she became one of our most well-received hosts.

2. Sarah Richardson, our patron saint

Perhaps she owes her success to the fact that she's the aspirational 'every woman'. She has one of these faces you think you've seen before, and though you don't remember where or when, you remember the encounter as very pleasant... Her manner is effortless, her character irreproachable, her designs seem to materialize out of some natural logic of aesthetics forcing you to exclaim, "well of course that looks good! I can't see it any other way!". We love Sarah, and incidentally, the Sarah madness is building as Sarah's House 3 draws closer to premier... FYI, Alicia is running Sarah's House Makeover Match-up on our Facebook Fan Page, where you can vote for your favourite Sarah's House rooms from season 1 and 2. The two finalists will go head to head upon the premier of Sarah's House season 3, for the ultimate fans' choice. Check it out!

3. Samantha Pynn of Pure Design

Isn't she just lovely? She's just lovely. I've interviewed her a few times and she's the most unpretentiously accommodating, lovely gal. Who dresses well, btw, (which could have something to do with her Editor's position at Style at Home magazine) and is super slight and dainty. We love her contemporary glam style and we know you guys love her makeovers, because every time we post one, you go click-crazy!

4. Cheryl Torrenueva of Restaurant Makeover and Colin and Justin's Home Heist

You watch this lady -- you've certainly not seen the last of her. Though she's not yet taken centre stage in her previous television projects, she repeatedly steals your attention with her natural, bubbly charm and can-do design attitude. Wanna know a secret? We've roped her into letting us document a model home she's designing for a new residential development in Ontario, and if you've not gotten hooked on her from her previous shows, you'll get a good chance for that here, on Style Sheet -- coming soon!

5. Kate Campbell of Holmes on Homes and Holmes Inspection

Ok, she's a babe. From her first appearance on Holmes on Homes, through to Holmes in New Orleans and now a saucy brunette on Holmes Inspection, Kate the old-school bombshell, was always on the radar of the burly gents who subscribe to the Holmes institution. She's archetypally good looking, she's wears a hard hat, and she's an industrious worker. When I was live-blogging Holmes Inspection, nary a session would pass without someone saying that they thought "...she was hot", or "...my husband thinks she's gorgeous!"

I know this is a touchy subject, but these here are the people's choice, so to speak! Thoughts?

Related:

New Restaurant To Be Made Over: Lynn Crawford and Cherie Stinson in Business

Elana Safronsky — Fri, 05 Mar 2010 01:54:00 GMT

No matter how many seasons Restaurant Makeover ran for (I think it was a zillion), it wasn't enough for me! When I was on maternity leave I watched that show on both Food Network and HGTV, favouring Lynn and Corbin Tomaszeski in the kitchen, and Cherie Stinson, Cheryl Torrenueva and Glen Peloso for the design.

Well, with all those countless hours spent helping (and berating) others, Chef savant Lynn Crawford of new show Pitchin' In, and designer Cherie Stinson of international firm Yabu Pushelberg, have teamed up to open a restaurant in Toronto.

The restaurant they took over was called Citizen, and you know who owned it? Rodney Bowers of Marriage Under Construction! (This post takes the gold for the most links!) On my and Alicia's visit with the Bowers, Rod confessed that Lynn used come into The Citizen and talk about how she'd like to take the space over. He never thought she was serious until one day she walked in meaning business.

My foodnetwork.ca buddy, CJ, and I, payed the new owners of Citizen -- now called Ruby Watchco (watch the video below for the story of the name) -- a visit. Not much to see right now, but Miz Cherie Stinson is leading her team to something gorgeous I'm sure -- just like Lynn's new show, pitching in is the name of the game -- everyone is doing everything!

Watch CJ's interview with Lynn on the same day, on foodnetwork.ca.

Stay tuned for an update on the interior coming soon!

Related:

Makeover: A Basement I'd Actually Live In

Vanessa — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 18:33:00 GMT

The team on Income Property does some pretty amazing things with basements. That Scott McGillivray is not only one of HGTV's hotties, he's one talented host. This decrepit basement became an income suite for couple Allison and Rob who were in need of some extra cash. Scott turned the kitchen above into what I wish my own kitchen looked like (the tile is great) and made a cozy media room out of this neither here nor there living room space. The finished suite feels modern and very livable, like a cute condo with very high windows.

See the full makeover and resource guide.

Real People Buying Condos: The Blind Faith of Pre-Construction

Guest Blogger — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 16:22:00 GMT

As many of us know, few things are more nerve wracking and empowering than purchasing your first home. With experts touting that getting into the market is always better sooner rather than later, there's been a country-wide boom in real estate that hasn't really subsided. What does this mean? For first-time buyers, especially those in larger cities like Toronto, the dream of a house often gets supplanted by a condo, which offers lower buy-in prices.

Pre-construction condo owner, Jennifer Myers

Lower still are the buy-in prices of pre-construction condos, the choice of many looking for the most economically sound investment. In my case, I inherited the decision to invest in pre-construction with my now-boyfriend, who purchased this then-bachelor pad two years before I entered the picture. I must confess: I had zero knowledge of condo ownership, let alone pre-construction nitty-gritty such as PDIs, home inspections and the like.

Though I luckily avoided the long wait to completion, I had my fair share of anticipation for the unveiling. With a builder representative in tow, we recently conducted our Pre-Delivery Inspection -- or PDI -- a walkthrough to note deficiencies, mistakes and defective workmanship or materials. As a new-build homeowner, this is likely the first time you will see your new home in its completed state.

I was coming to this doubly blind; not only did my (not necessarily design savvy) significant other choose all of our finishes and upgrades before we even met, I only had a list of words on an order form to try and picture what my home would look like;

Kitchen cabinetry: “Denova” in “Very Chic” -- actually slab, chocolate brown/"Espresso" doors
Kitchen counter top: “Quarts-2" in "Cinder” -- actually a matte beige, engineered stone
Bathroom floor tile: “Evolution 12x24” -- taupe tile
Vanity counter top: "Bianco Carera" -- marble, nice!

Upon the PDI, I also confronted the expensive upgrade for the commode (one-piece, slow close) and the choice to remove the tub for a very large stand up shower (SUCH a single guy thing to do.) Thankfully, my guy chose not to choose a backsplash, so I got to make at least one decision about my new home!

How did I feel about the rest of it? With pre-sale constructions, design consultants are trusted to offer finishes that are contemporary, but that also appeal to many if not most tastes. That being said, in a year or two your tastes can change. Where I would have happily selected Espresso cabinets in 2008, my 2010 self would likely have gone with all white after the year I spent with an all white kitchen in the interim.

To be honest, most of my selections would have looked nothing like these, but in the end, I am happy with what we have. Some things are nicked and scuffed, and I need to swap out the horrific “contemporary loft” light fixtures ASAP, but otherwise I am satisfied. Now, to furnish!

Have you been through this process? Did you get what you expected? How did your preconstruction design decisions translate in the end?

By Jennifer Myers

Related:

Send Us Your Design and Real Estate Dilemmas!

Elana Safronsky — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 22:00:00 GMT

Got a question? Let’s open the floodgates! Send us your design and real estate dilemmas and we'll get one of our hosts to answer them! Right now we've got Scott McGillivray ready to share his expertise on anything from creating an income suite to decorating with eye-catching style, as well as real estate expert, Avryll McNair, helping you make the right choices when buying or selling.

Every month or so – depending on how many questions we receive – we’ll post a select number of questions with their corresponding answers, and give you all a chance to weigh in with your own expertise.

Email your questions and photos to stylesheetAThgtvDOTca and lets get started!

Related:

Book: Prefabulous + Sustainable

Jessica McLaughlin — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 19:02:00 GMT

The Stats
Title: Prefabulous + Sustainable: Building and Customizing an Affordable, Energy-Efficient Home
Price: $32.50
Availability: April 1, 2010 at major bookstores everywhere

The Book
Green decor is a challenging enough undertaking for a lot of us without the right resources. But if you're building your own energy-efficient dream home, a book full of beautiful inspiration and resources is a good starting point.

Prefabulous + Sustainable is divided into three sections: Green, Greener and Greenest Houses. The houses in the book are either built with modular sections, structural insulated panels, panelized construction, with timber or steel frames or a combination of these.

And there really is no shortage of combination. From traditional to modern decor and cottage retreat to urban dwelling; prefab homes come in all shapes, sizes and styles.

Admittedly, I didn't know prefab is actually very green. And here are a few reasons why:

A lot of wood that would usually be thrown into the dumpster on the job site is recycled for other uses
Because construction begins in a controlled environment there are no changes in temperature; meaning no warping, cracking or mildewing that can lead to heat loss in the winter
Workers who make modules or panels usually live closer to their place of work (less driving to job sites further from their homes)

Final Analysis

You'll probably like it if:

You're looking for green resources: builders, architects, designers, suppliers and more
You want great green tips for building a prefab and sustainable home
You want to be inspired by unique homes and interiors

You may not like it if:

You're not interested in building your own home
Sustainability is not your priority

Related:

Getaway Spotlight: Where to Stay in Sunny San Diego

Erin Jackson — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 15:19:00 GMT

Picture this: a sunny city with beaches and one of the most agreeable climates in the the world, bursting with culture, a dynamic restaurant scene, and a plethora of luxurious and unique hotels. Though the official name for this incredible vacation destination is San Diego, I prefer to call it Paradise.

During my latest trip, I stayed at three of San Diego's most interesting hotels, all in different areas of the county. In the ritzy beach community of Coronado, I stayed at the crown jewel of San Diego: The Hotel del Coronado. Then, I enjoyed a night smack-dab in the centre of downtown at The Keating Hotel, a boutique hotel that is simultaneously historic and ultra-modern. My last day was spent in Pacific Beach, an eclectic beach town, where I stayed (and played) at Tower 23 Hotel, a condo-chic hotel with stunning ocean views.

HGTV.ca has your all-access pass to these remarkable properties. Take a look!

Hotel del Coronado, Coronado

It’s been a few weeks since I returned from the Hotel del Coronado and I’ve almost managed to stop sighing every time I think about it. Originally built in 1888, The Del has hosted generations of celebrities, American presidents, and dignitaries from around the world. The Victorian-era resort is also a perfect example of resilience: it has survived several economic slumps, and has come to be knows as one of the top 10 hotels in the world.

Steeped in romance, The Del is perfect for an intimate getaway. From the grand chandelier in the lobby, to the gazebo in the courtyard, to the perfectly manicured beach, the property seems always camera-ready. Hand-holding is virtually mandatory, as everywhere you look couples are sharing honeymoon smiles.

The Victorian rooms further reflect the classic elegance. In these rooms, you can enjoy the rich history of The Del and muse on which silver screen legend may have stayed in your suite, while the suites in Beach Village feature amenities like gourmet kitchens, cozy fireplaces, spa-style baths, and soaker tubs on the outdoor terraces.

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The Keating Hotel, Downtown San Diego

With its historic bones and Italian/California/SoHo design, when you check into The Keating Hotel, you should get three stamps on your passport. This luxury boutique hotel in downtown San Diego is a study in contrasts: old and modern, European and Californian, and avant garde and comfortable, all at the same time.

The Keating was built in the late 1800s and was originally an office building. In 2001 it was redesigned by Pininfarina (an Italian design firm that also designed for Ferrari and Maserati). Some elements like the steam-powered elevator are original, while others are very modern. The sparse-yet-striking lobby is a pulsing, vibrant red and the rooms redefine what a hotel can (and should) be, such as a room plans which direct seating at the windows, not the TV. With a daring design that puts the walk-in shower in plain view of the bed in most rooms (and Jacuzzi tubs front-and-centre in others) a night at the Keating inspires (and requires) intimacy.

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Tower 23, Pacific Beach

In Pacific Beach, Tower 23 is the perfect spot to become a local for the day. Located steps from the ocean, this contemporary urban beach resort offers top-notch ocean-view patios and interior courtyard with fire pit and splash pad, where if you wanted to, you can entertain yourself for an entire weekend without leaving the property.

Tower 23's clean, cool, neo-modern aesthetic is distinctly Californian. Design is modern and minimalist, but still playful and creative. My “Surf Pad” had a surf-themed mural and an incredible view of the ocean and Crystal Pier. Next door was the “Sweet Suite”, with a floating King-size bed facing the ocean and "chromatherapy" -- colour-changing! -- Jacuzzi tub. Both the Surf Pad and the Sweet Suite had balconies, which are ideal for people-watching on the boardwalk and taking in a magnificent west-coast sunset. Aside from the stunning ocean views, the best feature of Tower 23 are the beds: luxurious memory foam mattresses topped with feather pads. The sheets feel like they’re about a million threads per inch and the duvet is so light and fluffy, you will feel like you are sleeping under a cloud.

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Have you stayed in any of these places before? Have your own recommendations for lodging in San Diego?

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Exclusive Video: Rod is a Diva, and an Awkward Family Photo

Elana Safronsky — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 02:25:00 GMT

Isn't that a gorgeous photo? Nat is the only one that makes this look OK, and not like a bad highschool party that didn't quite get the turnout everyone had hoped for... Well you can see the making of this photo in the video below, because sneaky camera guy Earl filmed the whole photo session, with me only catching on half way through. Like I try to explain just before Earl cuts me off; it's like one of those embarrassing videos your friends make of you when they pretend they're taking your picture, but actually press record while you preen and make photo-glam faces.

Did you enjoy the live chat? In this past episode of Marriage Under Construction, we saw the den materialize, and we also got another (slightly gratuitous, but who's complaining?) window onto Rod's inner world. We can in full confidence conclude now that Rod is the diva in this relationship, and while still fun, Alicia's and my visit with the couple (below) does nothing to disprove this. (Neither does this portrait of Rod, left, which hangs in the den, and which Alicia and I think makes him look a bit like Common, the rapper.)

What does ensue from our little interview is a candid revelation about how Rod and Nat decided to go big with the reno... Check it out!

Haven't participated in our live blogging before? Come back next Monday at 9pm and join in the fun! Rod, Nat and their designer Melissa often drop in on the action and answer your questions!

Related:

Getaway Question of the Week: Do You Still Buy Souvenirs?

Elana Safronsky — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 22:58:00 GMT

Do people still do that? I mean, really, what can you buy for under $10 that won't look cheap? And let's be honest here, nobody spends more than $10 for a souvenir because if they do, it ceases to be a souvenir and becomes a gift.

I do, however, understand the impulse to bring something back from your travels, something that reminds you of the good feeling you had while you were away. But I find mostly what happens is once you get back home and into your routine, that fancy-free feeling of travel or vacation quickly fades, and all you have left is a sad turtle made of shells, a coconut lantern, or a garish Venetian carnival mask looking painfully out of context.

The HGTV.ca team and I recently went to Vegas, to cover the Las Vegas World Market, and decided it wouldn't be right if we didn't bring our Director Christine G. something back, who sadly couldn't join us. What is Vegas if not the Holy See of tacky souvenirs, I ask you? THIS (left), is what we came up with... We wanted to get her the David, but twice we tried and the store was closed... So we took a photo of the very David we wanted to buy, and framed it in the most elegant frame we could find...

What we did here, is relegate the souvenir to joke status. A souvenir that's not expensive and lovely at the same time I fear, does not exist. Are souvenirs tacky by definition? Do people still buy them in all seriousness?

Oh, and by the way, welcome to Getaway Month! For the month of March, along with our regular monthly features, we'll be peppering in getaway interiors from friendlier climates, to help you bridge the gap between winter and summer. Stay tuned for some eye-ball-warming places to get away to!

Related:

Spotlight on Vancouver Wrap Up: The Highlights

Elana Safronsky — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 18:54:00 GMT

Clockwise from the top; condos at Athletes' Village; Gastown neighbourhood in Vancouver; Shangri-La Hotel tower; Athletes' Village common grounds

Even though I didn't love the Closing Ceremonies for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Games, I am going to miss the whole thing very much. I really got into it this year and was yelling my head off in red-faced, rabid patriotism when we won that gold medal in men's hockey.

I also think Vancouver did a great job hosting. I wasn't there during the games but by all accounts, the experience was overwhelmingly positive -- it sure looked fun all the way from Snoronto...

But we didn't just hang our hands at our sides. My foodnetwork.ca pal, CJ, and I, did a little preemptive traveling to the friendly city, so that we could bring you a spotlight on all things Vancouver food and design throughout the winter games. Thus we made our own fun here in Olympics-bereft Ontario, and as a bitter-sweet send-off, here's a summary of the fine establishments we profiled here on Style Sheet;

Other Vancouver Posts:

Also, check out all the Vancouver foodie posts on foodnetwork.ca!

BUT, as one door closes another one opens. Though with heavy hearts, we move on to other things: March is Getaway Month! Along with all your favourite regular features here on Style Sheet and the foodnetwork.ca blog, CJ and I will be bringing you beautiful interiors and fabulous food finds from destinations around the world! Getaway Month will officially kick off with today's Question of the Week, so stay tuned!