Atmosphere Randoms

ATMOSPHERE INTERVIEWS Blossoms Living Owner, Carla Scharback

BLOSSOMS LIVING OWNER - CARLA SHARBACK

The Blossoms that we all know and love is becoming "Blossoms Living", an 18Karat Neighborhood Store in Saskatoon.  Blossoms has grown along with 18Karat for 19 years and appreciates the companys philosophy in supporting equality and fairness in the factories that produce their products while maintaining beautiful organic designs and products for clients to purchase.  Blossoms will soon be celebrating their Grand Reopening as Blossoms Living so, we thought an interview with owner, Carla Scharback, would be very timely!

 

ATMOSPHERE: While waiting in line at the check-out stand, which of these magazines would you pick up and flip through: House & Home, Elle Decor, Traditional Home, Dwell, Other?

CARLA: All of the above!  And then some.  I am a self admitted magazine junkie.  Still grieving the loss of Metropolitan Home.

 ELLE DECOR - APRIL 2011

ATMOSPHERE: Which room in your home best represents your design style, and what features were key to the design?

CARLA:  My living room.  It has big windows, a fireplace and room for my large paintings.  It isn't formal but I love my chairs, occasional tables and credenza from Global Views.

 ATMOSPHERE LOVES THE "FRENCH KEY EVERYTHING CABINET" AND "LUCY CHAIR" FROM GLOBAL VIEWS

ATMOSPHERE: Which room are you dying to renovate? Will you continue the same feel, or will it be a departure?

CARLA: Hands down my kitchen.  It was the first room I wanted to renovate when I bought my 1950's house and the last room left!  It will be bright - a timeless, organic design.

 

ATMOSPHERE:  Can you share a memorable design disaster or a design decision you wish you could make over again?

CARLA:  Trusting the roofer that my shingles could be off the roof and the roof uncovered in my first house.  The rain really "affected" my plaster walls.  Live and learn!

FOR THIS PARTICULAR DESIGN DILEMA, ATMOSPHERE RECOMMENDS THE BURBERRY "REGENT" DOUBLE UMBRELLA

ATMOSPHERE: If you could live anywhere and had an unlimited budget to build/buy whatever you wanted (think Dream-Home), what would it be (ocean front beach house, penthouse condo, rustic lodge in the mountains), and describe the design?

CARLA: Definitely ocean front, and somewhere warm please!  I loved Jennifer Aniston's home in Architectural Digest! 

 JENNIFER ANISTON AT HOME - ARCHITECTURAL DIGEST - MARCH 2010

 

ATMOSPHERE: In your travels, what hotel room has inspired you or felt most like home?

CARLA: I really love the Loden in Vancouver.  (Trevor & Curtis recommended!)  The design was clean and polished without being to "glitzy".

 THE BEAUTIFUL LODEN VANCOUVER BOUTIQUE HOTEL

 

ATMOSPHERE: If you were selected to be on a television design show, which show/ designer would you love to have work for you, and what room would you have them tackle for you?

CARLA: Sarah Richardson, welcome to my kitchen!

 WE THINK CARLA WOULD BE RIGHT AT HOME IN THIS IMPECCABLE KITCHEN BY DESIGNER SARAH RICHARDSON

ATMOSPHERE: When entertaining at home, where do your guests tend to gather the most and why?

CARLA: In the kitchen and dining room.  That where the food is happening and drinks being served!  I love to sit around the table with good food, drinks and conversation!

 

ATMOSPHERE: What CD would be playing in the background?

CARLA: My range is huge - anything from Willie Nelson to Neko Case to the Stones.  No Hip Hop or Rap please.

 CARLA'S ECLECTIC TASTE - WILLIE NELSON, NEKO CASE AND THE ROLLING STONES

 

ATMOSPHERE: Where do you tend to do most of your décor and furniture shopping?

CARLA: I am fortunate to be able to travel and buy for my own business, which spills over into my life.  Most of my large case goods & upholstered furniture are from Sew & Home. Of course!

 FURNISHINGS AND DECOR.  A PAGE FROM THE 18KARAT CATALOG

ATMOSPHERE: What is your favorite piece of furniture or décor that you currently own?

CARLA: I have several beautiful paintings.  Currently I am meditating on a very large piece about "balance" by my friend and mentor Linda Chartier.  It draws me in and calms me down.

 LINDA CHARTIER'S WORK IS REPRESENTED BY THE ROUGE GALLERY IN SASKATOON (ROUGE GALLERY OWNER - WANDA UNDERHILL WITH THE ARTIST)

ATMOSPHERE: What is your next object of desire?

CARLA: Bedroom suite for principle bedroom!

 

ATMOSPHERE: In Saskatoon, what space (private or public) has left a strong design impression on you?

CARLA: I always feel a gentle quietness when I visit the Mendel Art Gallery.  I love the space, the smell and even the sound of quiet foot steps on the cork floor.  Steps away from the organic beauty of the riverbank.

THE MENDEL ART GALLERY AND CIVIC CONSERVATORY

 

 - Heather Whyte - Project Coordinator/Showroom Manager

 

ATMOSPHERE INTERVIEWS Details at Home Owner, Candis Bloski

Candis Bloski in her shop, Details at Home

We caught up with Candis Bloski, owner of Details at Home, to ask her about design, entertaining and what inspires her in Saskatoon.

ATMOSPHERE: While waiting in line at the check-out stand, which of these magazines would you pick up and flip through: House & Home, Elle Decor, Traditional Home, Dwell, Other?

CANDIS: Definitely House & Home.  I like the fact that it is Canadian and has a good mix of timeless and trendy design ideas.  I always flip through it because it often features items for companies I buy from for my store.

House & Home - March 2011 Issue

ATMOSPHERE: Which room in your home best represents your design style, and what features were key to the design?

CANDIS:  I would have to say the main floor.  It was important to have an open concept area that was warm and inviting.  The newly renovated kitchen with its large eight foot island has increased the general flow of the area.  It has a modern look using lots of texture and natural elements.

A large island with extra seating and an open concept space plan make this kitchen the heart of the home. (Photo from a Previous Atmosphere Project)

 

ATMOSPHERE: Which room are you dying to renovate? Will you continue the same feel, or will it be a departure?

CANDIS: I am dying to renovate the principle bedroom and will continue the feel of modern comfort.  The inspiration for the room is drawn from silk bedding that our daughter brought us back from a recent trip to Thailand.  I would like it to be a luxurious retreat.

  This Thai-Silk Pillow from Karma Design could be a great jumping off point for the design of a tropical bedroom retreat.

ATMOSPHERE: If you could live anywhere and had an unlimited budget to build/buy whatever you wanted (think Dream-Home), what would it be (ocean front beach house, penthouse condo, rustic lodge in the mountains), and describe the design?

CANDIS: Water front without a doubt!!!!  It would have large floor to ceiling windows in every room so that no matter where you were you could see the water.  the design would be open yet cozy and filled with just the right mix of modern and rustic.

We think Candis would love Artist, Martha Sturdy's Waterfront Property - featured in the Feb 2011 Issue of Architectural Digest.  (Laurie Black, Photographer)

 

ATMOSPHERE: In your travels, what hotel room has inspired you or felt most like home?

CANDIS: I would have to say that the most memorable accommodation is an amazing ocean front cottage that we stayed in last summer just outside of Summerside, PEI.  It was representative of my dream home as described earlier, but on a smaller, less extravagant scale.  It had absolutely everything that one would need.

PEI has no shortage of quaint cottages and beautiful coastline to admire.  We think Candis would love this Ocean Front Cottage in Megvy, PEI.

ATMOSPHERE: If you were selected to be on a television design show, which show/ designer would you love to have work for you, and what room would you have them tackle for you?

CANDIS: Candace Olson of Divine Design.  I think her work is timeless, tasteful and classy.  I would want her to tackle the basement.

A Family Friendly Basement Retreat by Candice Olson of Divine Design  (Brandon Barre, Photographer)

ATMOSPHERE: When entertaining at home, where do your guests tend to gather the most and why?

CANDIS: In most cases it is typically in the kitchen.  People just naturally seem to gravitate here as there is always a drink that needs to be poured and food to be prepared.

While in the kitchen, pour your guests the perfect glass of wine with the Vintura Red Wine Aerator - available at Details at Home.

ATMOSPHERE: What CD would be playing in the background?

CANDIS: More often than not there is no music - just laughter and good conversation.

Atmosphere recommends Harry Connick Jr. for intimate gatherings.

ATMOSPHERE: Where do you tend to do most of your décor and furniture shopping?

CANDIS: When at all possible I like to support local independent businesses that sell Canadian made products.  As I own a home decor business, I tend to bring into my home what I offer to my customers.

A sampling of the decorative items available at Details at Home.

ATMOSPHERE: What is your favorite piece of furniture or décor that you currently own?

CANDIS: It would be a teak tree root that I use as a coffee table.  I love its uniqueness.

Candis' favorite piece - Teak Root Coffee Table

ATMOSPHERE: What is your next object of desire?

CANDIS: I am eagerly awaiting the delivery of a free form, acacia wood, raw edge dining table that is on its way from Indonesia.

We love this Live Edge Aciaca Wood Dining Table from DOA in LA.

ATMOSPHERE: In Saskatoon, what space (private or public) has left a strong design impression on you?

CANDIS: Because I find beauty in natral objects like rocks, trees and water, I would have to say it would be the amazing riverbanks of the city of Saskatoon.  It offers ever changing colours and textures.

We agree - The Saskatoon Riverbank is inspiring.  (Especially when it's green!)

 Heather Whyte - Project Coordinator / Showroom Manager

ATMOSPHERE INTERVIEWS Saskatoon City Hospital Foundation CEO, Steve Shannon

Saskatoon City Hospital Foundation CEO, Steve Shannon

On May 1^st, 2010, after spending 35 years on Saskatoon’s radio air waves, Steve Shannon accepted the position of CEO of Saskatoon City Hospital Foundation.  While the learning curve has been steep, he describes his new position as “a job of passion”.  Steve spent the last 10 years as a volunteer board member at the Foundation with 3 years as its chair.

In his down time, Steve enjoys fishing at his Mother In-Law's cabin at Anglin Lake, running big antique steam engines at the Western Development Museum and the occasional golf game with his 8 year old son, Billy.  These days Steve juggles Foundation work and key note speaking with Billy's hockey, football, baseball and golf activities.

 

ATMOSPHERE: While waiting in line at the check-out stand, which of these magazines would you pick up and flip through: House & Home, Elle Decor, Traditional Home, Dwell, Other?

STEVE: House & Home

 

House & Home Magazine - September 2010 Issue

ATMOSPHERE: Which room in your home best represents your design style, and what features were key to the design?

STEVE: Our family room most represents out style.  It’s relaxing and where we do most of our living.  It has the full leather furniture and it’s comfortable.

ATMOSPHERE: Which room are you dying to renovate? Will you continue the same feel, or will it be a departure?

STEVE: The room we would like to renovate most is the kitchen.  We will make it the same design and feel of the home with special accent features.

ATMOSPHERE: If you could live anywhere and had an unlimited budget to build/buy whatever you wanted (think Dream-Home), what would it be (ocean front beach house, penthouse condo, rustic lodge in the mountains), and describe the design?

STEVE: Cindy would have two; a beach house and a penthouse in NYC.  For me it would be more of a rustic natural log cabin in the forest of northern Saskatchewan with all the modern conveniences.  A compromise might be on a beach on the west coast…best of both worlds.

New York City Penthouse - Cindy's Dream Home

Modern Wilderness Retreat - Steve's Dream Home

The perfect compromise?  The Falls Golf Resort Community in beautiful BC

 

ATMOSPHERE: If you had to design a room in your home around your favorite item of clothing, what would it be and what would that room look like?

STEVE: I have a tie with bold colors of orange, red, pink, yellow and black that really stands out.  To have a den or office with those colors would be creative and inspire.  That tie gives me confidence when I entertain or emcee.  It’s like an introduction without the words.

Colour inspires creativity.  This bold, hand-painted silk tie by Nadine de Lange could have inspired this vibrant den.

ATMOSPHERE: In your travels, what hotel room has inspired you or felt most like home?

STEVE: I stayed at the Marriott in San Francisco while on a health-care convention.  The room they put me in was a corner suite which looked out in two directions.  Just being in that room on the 25^th floor gave me a feeling that no challenge I faced could not be overcome.

Mariott Hotel San Francisco

ATMOSPHERE: If you were selected to be on a television design show, which show/ designer would you love to have work for you, and what room would you have them tackle for you?

STEVE: Genevieve Gorder the host of Dear Genevieve on HGTV.  She would be great to tackle the kitchen and living room.

The Queen of Shabby Chic - Living Room designed by Genvieve Gorder of HGTV's - Dear Genvieve

 

ATMOSPHERE: When entertaining at home, where do your guests tend to gather the most and why?

STEVE: Guests are drawn to the kitchen and the island.  I think the reason is that the space is open, lots of room and looks out into the back yard.

ATMOSPHERE: What CD would be playing in the background?

STEVE: We like to listen to a good mix of classical, easy listening even some light country would be appreciated.

Some of Steve's favorites: Katy Perry, Starland Vocal Band, George Strait

ATMOSPHERE: Where do you tend to do most of your décor and furniture shopping?

STEVE: We tend to shop from at the bigger décor stores to the quaint Broadway outlets.  We are always open for something to jump out as a possible purchase that may go with an idea.

ATMOSPHERE: What is your favorite piece of furniture or décor that you currently own?

STEVE: Most recently we picked up a picture in our living room.  It encompasses a bit of the abstract and a beach shore that is quite relaxing to view.

ATMOSPHERE: What is your next object of desire?

STEVE: What’s next? Extending the feeling and décor we have inside the house to the deck and patio area.

Atmosphere recommends grouping outdoor furnishings just as you would indoor pieces to create a space that is comfortable and inviting.  (Restoration Hardware - Antigua Collection)

 

ATMOSPHERE: In Saskatoon, what space (private or public) has left a strong design impression on you?

STEVE: The design and décor of the last Hospital Home Lottery House was breathtaking and exciting.  I just didn’t know what to expect when you entered any of the rooms in the home and I was never disappointed.

The inviting Lower Level Lounge - 2010 Hospital Home Lottery Show Home (Designed by Atmosphere).

Current Saskatoon City Hospital Foundation Campaigns

Saskatchewan MS Clinical Research Chair

The Saskatoon City Hospital Foundation is currently raising 5 million dollars for an MS Clinical Research Chair.  Working in partnership with the University of Saskatchewan, the U of S Dept of Medicine, Canada's Light Source Synchrotron, MS Society, Saskatoon City Hospital Foundation, Saskatchewan Health Research Foundation, the Cameco MS Neuro Science Research Centre and MS Clinic, located at City Hospital, this Chair position brings focus and coordination for Saskatchewan's multiple facets of MS research and clinical care, enhancing our contribution to the fight against MS nationally and globally.

Nerve Blocks

Saskatoon City Hospital Foundation is raising $237,498.00 to buy the necessary equipment for the Regional Anesthesia Program.  Using a combination of medication and advanced imaging equipment, Anaesthesiologists can "block" sensation to a specific part of the body - the knee, ankle, elbow, shoulder.  Blocking nerves that transmit pain signals effectively blocks pain.  Patients may be able to avoid a General Anesthetic altogether, remaining awake and pain-free during surgery and will likely experience fewer side-effects, such as nausea, vomiting and dizziness after surgery.

ATMOSPHERE INTERVIEWS Saskatoon Visual Artist, Marie Lannoo

 Saskatoon Visual Artist - Marie Lannoo

ATMOSPHERE: While waiting in line at the check-out stand, which of these magazines would you pick up and flip through: House & Home, Elle Decor, Traditional Home, Dwell, Other?

MARIE:  Dwell, Objekt, The Plan, In Design, etc.  Magazines you would get in a bookstore, not a check out stand, although I read vogue and Cosmo too when I feel like it!  Great exhibition catalogue is Design and the Elastic Mind by Paola Antonelli - MOMA, New York.

Dwell Magazine  - Sept 2010 Issue

ATMOSPHERE: Which room in your home best represents your design style, and what features were key to the design?

MARIE:  Kitchen just renovated.  Lean with only the essentials.  Less is more philosophy.

ATMOSPHERE: Which room are you dying to renovate? Will you continue the same feel, or will it be a departure?

MARIE:  Upstairs bathroom.  I would like to do it in limestone - walls, floor.  A continuous experience of this material so you are immersed in the warm, earthy stone.

  Atmosphere asks, is this what you had in mind?

ATMOSPHERE: Can you share a memorable design disaster, or a design decision you wish you could make over again?

MARIE: I once painted a front porch in stripes of different colors.  A complete disaster.

Stripes can be a beautiful design "Do"...

With wallpaper...

or paint! 
 

ATMOSPHERE: If you could live anywhere and had an unlimited budget to build/buy whatever you wanted (think Dream-Home), what would it be (ocean front beach house, penthouse condo, rustic lodge in the mountains), and describe the design?

MARIE:  A New Mexican prairie bungalow that stretched out like a spider onto the surrounding flat expanses.  If the temp in Saskatchewan paralleled New Mexico, I would do it here. 

Could this be Marie's dream home?

ATMOSPHERE: If you had to design a room in your home around your favorite item of clothing, what would it be and what would that room look like?

MARIE:  It would be a black and white room.  My clothing palette at the moment is very monochrome - black, white and grey, even though I am a colorist.

Black & White inspires Atmosphere too.

Jimmy Choo.  The inspiration for Marie's next reno? 

ATMOSPHERE: In your travels, what hotel room has inspired you or felt most like home?

MARIE: Fox Hotel, Copenhagen.  Each room designed by an artist.

Hotel Fox, Copenhagen

Fox Hotel, Room 306. Pico-Pico

Fox Hotel Room 415.  Skew But You

Fox Hotel Room 510.  King's Court 2   

ATMOSPHERE: If you were selected to be on a television design show, which show/ designer would you love to have work for you, and what room would you have them tackle for you?

MARIE:  Not a TV designer.  I would be interested in Patricia Urquiola or Zaha Hadid.  Rooms that don't have 90 degree angles in the corners but rather roll up in a curvilinear way and thereby appear continuous are changing our experience of interior space.

Kusnacht Villa - Zaha Hadid Architects

ATMOSPHERE: When entertaining at home, where do your guests tend to gather the most and why?

MARIE:  We have an open concept home so entertaining is very fluid from one room to the next.  Kitchen and back area that looks out onto the yard. 

ATMOSPHERE: What CD would be playing in the background?

MARIE: Changes with the mood in the studio.

Atmosphere recommends Po Girl

ATMOSPHERE: Where do you tend to do most of your décor and furniture shopping?

MARIE:  Out of town.

For Out of Town Shopping - Atmosphere Recommends: Kit Interior Objects in Calgary, AB

 

ATMOSPHERE: What is your favorite piece of furniture or décor that you currently own?

MARIE:  Artemide light fixture over the island in the kitchen at the moment, but this changes over time as well.

Marie might also enjoy the aesthetic of the Cabildo Pendant from Artimede Lighting

ATMOSPHERE: What is your next object of desire?

MARIE:  A Canadian diamond from the far north or a piece of jewelry designed by Bill Reid from the West Coast.

Bill Reid - Dogfish Transformation Necklace 

ATMOSPHERE: In Saskatoon, what space (private or public) has left a strong design impression on you? 

MARIE:  I just had a look at 235 Ave D. - AODBT Architecture and Interior Design.  Very interesting, particularly the exterior.

 

Exhibit of Marie Lannoo's Work - Motion Sensitive at the MacKenzie Art Gallery (2002)

Marie Lannoo was raised in Delhi, Ontario and moved to Saskatchewan in 1975 and lives and works in Saskatoon.  She studied at York University, the University of Saskatchewan, the Banff School of Fine Arts and in Virton Belgium and attend several Emma Lake artists' workshops.  

Marie has exhibited provincially, nationally and internationally and was part of the first group exhibition of Canadian artists at the Hong Kong Arts Centre.

Visit Marie Lanoo's website marielannoo.com

 

ATMOSPHERE INTERVIEWS Jordana Jacobson of Cravings Maternity & Baby

 Jordana Jacobson of Cravings Maternity & Baby

We met Jordana and her husband Perry a few years back as they began the process of building their new home. During the design process, Jordana's business, Cravings Maternity & Baby, was flourishing and as well her family was expanding. The design/client relationship we formed was crucial, as her busy lifestyle did not allow her the time needed to facilitate the large project on her own. Jordana has a great sense of style and this project was a great example how knowing what you want only strengthens the overall result of working with Designers. We thoroughly enjoyed working with Jordana and will continue to encourage all her upcoming projects so that our relationship continues!

ATMOSPHERE: While waiting in line a the check-out stand, which of these magazines would you pick up and flip through: House & Home, Elle Decor, Traditional Home, Dwellor Other?

JORDANA: Other - Style at Home.  I am a magazine junkie.  I would pick up and browse through all of the above (with the exception of Traditional Home).  I actually have subscriptions to most of them!

ATMOSPHERE: Which room in your home best represents your design style, and what features were key to the design?

JORDANA: My design style is a mix of clean lines, classic pieces and a bit of bling...ok, maybe a lot of bling!  I really love the main floor of my house.  I love the simplicty of the colour scheme (mostly black & white) and it is a very open space with 10' ceilings and lots of windows overlooking a park.  I love the feel of a loft space so I wanted to create that feel as much as possible in our new home.

 The Airy, Open Living Room

ATMOSPHERE: Which room are you dying to renovate? Will you continue the same feel, or will it be a departure?

JORDANA: Renovate?  I think my husband would kill me!  I do love new things and I am always thinking of “what’s next?”  I would love to tackle the basement some day as it’s the one area of my home that doesn’t feel like me yet.  We haven’t done much with it and have pretty much left it for the kids. 

In support of my recent return to fitness training, we have decided to turn one of the rooms in the basement in to a home gym.  I am sure Trevor & Curtis will think of a way to incorporate a little bling in to a traditionally  boring space!

ATMOSPHERE: Can you share a memorable design disaster, or a design decision you wish you could make over again?

JORDANA: I can’t think of any major design disasters.  I guess I am lucky.  We built our home and while we experienced some frustrations, we are truly thrilled with how everything turned out!

ATMOSPHERE: If you could live anywhere and had an unlimited budget to build/buy whatever you wanted (think Dream-Home), what would it be (ocean front beach house, penthouse condo, rustic lodge in the mountains), and describe the design?

JORDANA: Definitely an ocean front beach house.  That is a no-brainer for me!  It would be a large, open space with lots of windows, large decks/patios, a pool…I could go on and on.  It would be a more grand version of what our house is now.

  Could this be Jordana's Dream Home?

ATMOSPHERE: If you had to design a room in your home around your favorite item of clothing, what would it be and what would that room look like?

JORDANA: I wear mostly back & white.  No coincidence that our house is also black & white!  I love punches of color that can be changed up with the trends.  I do love trends and follow them in both fashion and home décor.

 

Black & White Glam with a Pop of Colour

 
Iconic Black & White Chanel

How about a room designed around these Givenchy shoes?
  

ATMOSPHERE: In your travels, what hotel room has inspired you or felt most like home?

JORDANA: I can’t honestly say that I’ve stayed in a hotel room that has inspired me that much!   Before kids we didn’t have the means to stay in lavish places and now we have two little ones and are not traveling too much these days!

 

 

We know Jordana will feel right at home at the

Viceroy Palm Springs

 
  

  
ATMOSPHERE: If you were selected to be on a television design show, which show/ designer would you love to have work for you, and what room would you have them tackle for you?

JORDANA: Sarah Richardson.  I would have her work on our home office.  It is the only room on the main floor that hasn’t been touched yet.    It has beautiful wallpaper, a custom desk and built in bookcases, but beyond that it lacks personality.  I would love for it to fit in more with the rest of our main floor.

Sarah Richardson - Design Inc.

A Cosy Corner of the Newly Designed Design Inc. Offices  

ATMOSPHERE: When entertaining at home, where do your guests tend to gather the most and why?

JORDANA: Depends on the guests…most of ours seem to be under 6 these days!  Friends do tend to gather mostly in the kitchen/great room area, around the food of course!  I am hoping with a bit of sunshine this summer that we can gather people around our built-in indoor/outdoor fireplace and new patio furniture!  I‘m really happy with our new outdoor living room space.

Kitchen/Great Room Area

Indoor/Outdoor Fireplace and Seating Perfect for Summer Nights! 

 

ATMOSPHERE: What CD would be playing in the background?

JORDANA: I really love such a mix of music.  Really depends on my mood (and age of the company!) more than anything.

 

 

Curtis & Trevor recommend the hotel costes series to set the mood

 

ATMOSPHERE: Where do you tend to do most of your décor and furniture shopping?

JORDANA: Sew & Home, Blossoms, Furniture World.  As a Saskatoon business owner, I do value the support of local residents.  I try to keep my spending in the Saskatoon area as much as possible. 

ATMOSPHERE: What is your favorite piece of furniture or décor that you currently own?

JORDANA: The newest additions to our home are my favorite right now.  Our new dining room table and credenza in walnut, chrome and black glass and our new dining chairs covered in black faux crocodile with chrome nail head detailing…love, love, love!!

 Dining Room Featuring Walnut Cradenza, Table & Faux Croc Chairs

ATMOSPHERE: What is your next object of desire?

JORDANA: I have gorgeous 18Karat vases picked out at Blossoms for my dining room.  Just waiting for their design team to work their magic! I always seem to have an object(s) of desire!

ATMOSPHERE: In Saskatoon, what space (private or public) has left a strong design impression on you?

JORDANA: To be honest, Curtis & Trevor’s loft was the most jaw dropping space I have seen.  I love their design style and that’s why I keep asking them to assist me with our projects, both indoors and outdoors.  I don’t think they’ll ever get rid of me!

The "Former" Loft of Trevor & Curtis 

Cravings Maternity & Baby

is Saskatoon's premier maternity & baby shop specializing in trendy maternity, hip baby and unique gifts.  Cravings has recently launched an online store so now you can shop hundreds of their best selling items from the comfort of your home!  Visit www.shopcravings.ca!

ATMOSPHERE INTERVIEWS Wanda Underhill & Rouge Gallery

 ROUGE GALLERY OWNER WANDA UNDERHILL (LEFT) & CLAIRE UNDERHILL

We consider it a priveledge to call Rouge Gallery owner Wanda Underhill and her daughter Claire our next door neighbours. We've always admired their style and recently invited Wanda to take part in an "Atmosphere Interview". 

 

ATMOSPHERE: While waiting in line at the check-out stand, which of these magazines would you pick up and flip through?

1.  House & Home
2.  Elle Decor
3.  Traditional Home
4.  Dwell

Wanda: I would pick up all of the listed magazines at some point in the first week of distribution.  Being in the art business, it’s important for me to know where the design trends are moving.  What colours are more prevalent than others and the style clients want to live in.  Most of my clients buy art in 2 ways: they come into the Gallery and see a painting…”I love this painting, but it doesn’t go with anything in my house.  I’m going to buy it anyway”.  While others come in with their colour swatches and say, “I’m looking for something abstract (or representational), this is a perfect colour match, I will take it”.  Neither scenario is wrong; it’s just the way we buy our art.

 
"SPARKS" BY LINDA CHARTIER

ATMOSPHERE: Which room in your home best represents your design style, and what features were key to the design?

Wanda: The room that best represents my design style is the dining room.  I based all the colours of my dining room furniture and table accessories around a painting that is the feature piece in the room.  My wall colour is very neutral, the accent colours in the painting are periwinkle blue and lime green.  The dining room table is etched glass with dark mahogany legs.  The dining room chairs are modern/contemporary, clean lines in alternating solid colours of periwinkle blue and lime green.  When I am entertaining, I usually stay with solid white everything…linens, china, charger plates. If I use additional colour it will be minimal with candles, flower bunches or party sprinkles. 

 

ATMOSPHERE: Which room are you dying to renovate next? Will you continue the same feel, or will it be a departure?

Wanda: I love the layout of my home.  But my kitchen is becoming outdated.  In its day, stainless steel everything was so much desired…yes, great if you don’t have a family and you don’t mind finger and water marks.   My dark cupboards need to be updated and it would be great to have additional storage.  The less clutter the better.  In terms of the feel of the kitchen, I would want to continue with the modern feel that is prevalent in the rest of the house.

 

{ATMOSPHERE SUGGESTS

CECCONI SIMONE FOR INSPIRATION}

ATMOSPHERE: If you had to design a room in your home around your favorite item of clothing, what would it be and what would that room look like?

Wanda: No question clothes say a lot about you in terms of style.  My favorite designer is Sarah Pacini.  Her lines are simple but very unique.  A blazer is never just a blazer.  My Sarah Pacini living room would be monotone in terms of colour but would have lots of texture in the fabric of cushions and drapery.  I am a fond lover of grey and white, so the furniture would be different tones of grey with white accents.  I would have funky lighting that would add to the uniqueness of the room and create the ambiance,  It would be a room that I could come home and relax in after work, or sit and read by the fireplace on a Sunday afternoon (in my Lululemons).

SARAH PACINI BLAZER

 

ATMOSPHERE: In your travels, what hotel room has inspired you or felt most like home?

Wanda: In all my travels, I have enjoyed the Starwood Boutique hotels the most.  The W Hotel is my favorite.  Whether it is in New York or Montreal, I have always loved the ambiance that is created when I enter each room or lobby.  The lighting is very important and they have mastered the art of sensuality as soon as you step through their doors. 

W MONTREAL - LE VIVOIR

The guest rooms always feature white linens with grey accents or chocolate brown.  There is nothing better that white 1000 thread count sheets and a down comforter…I won’t have anything less on my own bed.

  

W MONTREAL - FANTASTIC SUITE

In 2002, I traveled to New York for the first time and stayed at a W Hotel.  The experience was wonderful.  In each room, a CD player quietly played the W signature CD made especially for the hotel and their guests.  The feeling is calmness with a bit of edginess.  I bought the CD for my home.  In 2006, I opened Rouge Gallery.  I wanted the Gallery to have a New York, big city feel...the W Hotel CD had to be the theme music.  When designing the Gallery space, I had the W Hotel décor in mind with its simple lines and modern feel.  I guess if I spend most of my time in my workplace, I should design it to my liking…it’s my second home.

ROUGE GALLERY

ATMOSPHERE: If you were selected to be on a television design show, which show/ designer would you love to have work for you, and what room would you have them tackle for you?

Wanda: OK, I will be completely honest, I never watch TV…only because I don’t know how to work the remote.  I am every guy’s dream girl.  So, if I had an opportunity to work with a designer, it would be Curtis and Trevor.  I feel that we have very similar styles and taste.  I have liked every one of their creations.  Plus, we get along very well and I think this is very important when working with someone who is about to change your intimate surroundings.

ATMOSPHERE: When entertaining at home, where do your guests tend to gather the most and why?

Wanda: When we entertain at home, it is usually surrounded by food.  The gathering could be anywhere depending on the occasion.  In the winter months we may start in the living room for appetizers beside the fire and then make our way into the kitchen for further socializing and watch the cook (most likely me) do her magic.  In the summer, we entertain outside on the deck and then make our way into the kitchen or dining room.  Outside of dinner and on a more casual basis, we tend to entertain most in the kitchen.  We have a marble island with bar stool seating which tends to draw in the guests.

ATMOSPHERE: What CD would be playing in the background?

Wanda: I love music.  The music changes as the evening unfolds.  Music sets the tone, so it depends on what kind of atmosphere I want to create for my guests.  Most likely John Mayer, Michael Buble, Norah Jones, Diana Krall, Leona Lewis and definitely the W Hotel CD will be playing at some point.

 

LEONA LEWIS' LATEST ALBUM "ECHO" 

 

MICHAEL BUBLE'S LATEST ALBUM "CRAZY LOVE"

 

ATMOSPHERE: Where do you tend to do most of your décor and furniture shopping?

Wanda: I’m always looking for that special addition to add to my existing décor.  Recently I bought a very streamlined couch from Carla at Blossoms Florist, who would have thought.  She is currently carrying the 18KARAT line.  The couch was perfect in terms of size, design and comfort.  I am on my computer all day, so I have a tendency to view furniture on-line.  Most likely furniture and décor stores in Calgary and Toronto.  I prefer to buy Canadian.  Locally, I enjoy browsing at Winners or Homesense for home décor items.

18 KARAT "CHI CHAISE"

ATMOSPHERE: What is your favorite piece of furniture or décor that you currently own?

Wanda: When I turned 30, I bought a black grand piano and started taking piano lessons again.  I felt that as a child I really didn’t appreciate the instrument and wanted to do something for myself.  As it turned out, my young children wanted to play when I was playing and wouldn’t let me have the peace to practice.  I would go to my lessons, with my tail between my legs because I didn’t do my homework.  I was guilt struck and gave it up for another time.  Now that I am almost 50, maybe this will be the year to take up piano lessons again.  It is a beautiful piece of furniture that makes me smile each time I look at it.  Great memories.

 

 GREAT MEMORIES

ATMOSPHERE: What is your next object of desire?

Wanda: My next purchase will be an Armoire for my front entrance.  The house I live in now was built in 1926 and doesn’t have a front closet.  With 5 busy adults living under one roof, everyone has a tendency to throw their coat on the couch or fill the coat stand to the maximum.  For me, it’s all about minimal clutter.

ATMOSPHERE: In Saskatoon, what space (private or public) has left a strong design impression on you?

Wanda: In my line of business, I have an opportunity to visit many of my clients in their home or workplace.  Some of the homes and offices I have entered have been absolutely stunning.  I wish I had the vision that so many of the designers have.  We surround ourselves with beauty which speaks to others about our personality and style.

Rouge Gallery
208 3rd Avenue South
Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

phone: 306-955-8882
mobile: 306-227-4140
email: wandau@rougegallery.ca

www.rougegallery.ca

ATMOSPHERE INTERVIEWS The Ivy's Curtis & Jordan Korchinski

Ivy Owners, Curtis & Jordan Korchinski

 

Curtis & Jordan Korchinski

 

 

The Ivy Dining & Lounge, located on the corner of 24th Street East & Ontario Ave, opened its doors in 2006.  Curtis & Jordan Korchinski credit The Ivy's upscale ambience and character to years of “west coast research".  They appreciate the importance of setting the stage, creating a mood and a memorable experience for guests of The Ivy as well as those who attend their unforgettable special events.

 

It's always interresting to find out how design inspires others in Saskatoon and area - please read on.

 

ATMOSPHERE: While waiting in line at the check-out stand, which of these magazines would you pick up and flip through: House & Home, Elle Decor, Traditional Home, Dwell?

 

C& J: House & Home

House & Home Dec '09

 

ATMOSPHERE: Which room in your home best represents your design style, and what features were key to the complete design?

 

C & J: Our Family Room would represent mine. The key features would be the color palette, which is quite bold and non-typical, as well as a feature wall which hosts our large flat screen TV and a natural gas fireplace.

 

 

 

ATMOSPHERE: Which room are you dying to renovate next? Will you continue the same feel, or will it be a departure?

 

C & J: THE KITCHEN!!! I am excited to completely transform the house by re-configuring that entire space. It will flow into our newly renovated family room, but we would like to achieve one large, common space that we can entertain exclusively in, and save our family room for our quiet time.

 

 

ATMOSPHERE: If you had to design a room in your home around your favorite item of clothing, what would it be and what would that room look like?

 

C & J: I would love to design a room like my favorite pair of jeans! I bought them in Los Angeles, and they are brown in color, and feature really unique stitching, wear patterns and are very unique. A room that I could design similarly would be all of those things, with some really different textures on the walls & floor, along with edgy lighting and really comfortable furnishings.

 

 

ATMOSPHERE: In your travels, what hotel room has inspired you or felt most like home?

 

C & J: The Delta in downtown Vancouver has very modern and contemporary rooms that are beautiful, comfortable, and very functional.

 

Delta Vancouver

 

ATMOSPHERE: If you were selected to be on a television design show, which show/ designer would you love to have work for you, and what room would you rather them tackle than yourself?

 

C & J: I would love to have Nate Berkus design our Master Bedroom. We have different opinions as to what we would like to do with that space, and Nate could settle that argument!

 

Designer, Nate Berkus

Image, Nate Berkus Associates

 

Image, Nate Berkus Associates

 

 

ATMOSPHERE: When entertaining at home, where do your guests tend to gather the most?

 

C & J: The Kitchen…….always!

 

 

ATMOSPHERE: What CD would be playing in the background?

 

C & J: Josh Groban has always been a good choice.

 

 

Josh Groban

 

 

ATMOSPHERE: Where do you tend to do most of your décor and furniture shopping?

 

C & J: Here in Saskatoon, usually at as many of the locally owned businesses as possible.

 

 

 

ATMOSPHERE: What is your favorite piece of furniture or décor that you currently own?

 

C & J: My favorite is our curved white leather sectional couch.

 

 

ATMOSPHERE: What is your next object of desire?

 

C & J: A Baby Grand Piano

 

 

ATMOSPHERE: In Saskatoon, what space (private or public) left a strong design impression on you?

 

C & J: The Sheraton Cavalier always has beautiful design in their Lobby and Rooms, but 6 Twelve was especially stunning when I saw it for the first time.

 

6Twelve Lounge at the Sheraton Cavalier Hotel, Saskatoon

 

 

 

 

Catch up with Curtis & Jordan at the Ivy Dining & Lounge on New Year's Eve and welcome 2010 in style.  Call for reservations (306) 384.4444

Coming Soon to Atmosphere Randoms

We are working hard and creatively trying to improve our blog with new features & reasons to be visiting on a regular basis. House & Home Magazine kindly mentioned Atmosphere Randoms as a design blog worth visiting, so the pressure is on to keep it that way.

We love Ivan Meade's feature on his blog where he interviews prominent interior designers from all over North America. What we are interested in, is how design influences individuals in our own community. What are people's favorite rooms in their home, which room are you dying to renovate - and perhaps what room best represents your own personal style. "Atmosphere Interviews" will showcase our question & answers with interesting and well known Saskatoon residents, and how design effects their everyday lives.

 

 

 

 

ASK Atmosphere will be our "Ask a Designer". Email your design questions and we will do our best to give our take on your design challenges or curiosity. Of course, not all questions can be answered, but we will do our best to select popular questions. Nothing is off limits!