Here, for you, are a few of the latest and greatest to check out…

Adorn Inc. – Adorn Inc., is a delightful blog done by local freelance writer April Overall. Sharing mostly images and inspiration, April comes across some of the most pleasing pictures and products out there on the Internet.

Thriftkitty – This recent addition to Ottawa’s blogging scene offers readers quirky, crafty insight into the joys and triumphs of thrift shopping right here at home and out there on the Information Superhighway. With passion and zeal, Thriftkitty occasionally reveals her secrets and steals, but given her intermittent posts – this girlaboutOtown suspects she would rather be shopping!

OttawaDiva – This brand new blog – started just in the last week or so – has been brought to life based on the notion that Ottawa needs to embrace bolder attitude. Brace yourself. The Ottawa Diva does not mince words.

Apartment613 – Also new to Ottawa’s burgeoning blog scene, Apartment 613 is a very clever, very cool site covering everything from neighbourhoods and city news to books and brunch. Regularly updated, and featuring a handy weekly wrap up, this one site is definitely worth watching.

Spins and Needles –Ottawa’s creative types have been convening regularly at The Spins & Needles Craft and DJ night since 2005. This convergence of craft and community is always enjoyably enhanced with spun sounds and spirits. Now, the “crafty half” of Spins and Needles – co-founder Melanie Yugo, shares some “spin off stuff” with readers of her recently started blog.

Designing Ottawa – Maria Cook from the Ottawa Citizen is to be commended. Finally, someone is talking about architecture, public space and urban design with insight and intelligence that applies right here in Ottawa.  If you were following the Lansdowne Park/Kanata Soccer Stadium debate, you should not have missed Maria’s contribution.

Modern Ottawa – Launched just since January, interior designer Marie-Judith Jean-Louis’s blog about local modern design is definitely something different for Ottawa. Take a peek inside some of the city’s most contemporary spaces, learn about the fundamentals of urban design, or even consider some of her constructive – but kind – criticism of Ottawa’s most recent Home and Garden Show.

Design Ties – Kelly, of Jax Decor & Design in Ottawa, and her co-conspirator Victoria of EdinDesign Interiors in New Westminister, B.C., are each building business in the design field. Blogging about all things home & garden related with enthusiasm and energy, it is nice to see some more local content in the design and decorating domain.

It is against this backdrop that the contents of a room come to life, but most often, it is because of it.

For more about features too often forgotten, check out my latest article for Ottawafocus.com.

Images from Domino Magazine and Morgan Harrison Home.

Whimsy.  Wit.   Style.   All in a trip to the thrift shop…

When the time is right, these babies are going to meet a can of glossy white spray paint, inspired by a few pricier versions below.  

Owl lamps from Urban Outfitters & Anthropologie.

This super slick glossy magazine is by far the best interior focused publication here in Ottawa, and it is a ‘must have’ for local house & home addicts like me.  Not only does this once a year edition offer readers a peek inside some of Ottawa’s most beautiful and intriguing spaces, it also provides indisputable evidence of a growing community of builders, decorators, architects and developers passionate about design.    Editor Sarah Brown, in collaboration with a number of well known local writers and photographers like Janet Uren and Rémi Thériault, makes it interesting by ensuring that the magazine reflects Ottawa’s diversity of decorative preferences.  

Featuring a range of looks from traditional to modern,  this year’s Interiors Edition includes 3 small spaces with serious style, a restored firehouse, and an expansive new build (made to look old) on the shores of Britannia Bay among others.  Also included is a spotlight on fellow web writer Sabine Modder, managing editor of big-time design blog MocoLoco and a quirky, kitschy vintage trailer makeover.

There is much to learn about Ottawa’s design scene.  Check the news stands now, and see for yourself!

 Photo of Ottawa Magazine’s 2009 Interiors Edition by me.

It is still a bit hard for me to believe, but my closet was actually built custom.  Talk about every girl’s dream come true!  Prior to moving in, storage of any kind in this house was nonexistent, so it really was a necessary addition.  Fitted with shelves, drawers and an accessories rack it has a place for everything.

Would you believe then, that after more than a year of living here, I still don’t have it organized?  Even after I threw a bona fide hissy fit explaining to the the fella that a girl should not have to share – I’ve left it chaotic and crammed.  This beautiful closet – in its current state – is not worthy of so much as a matched hanger.  Shame on me!

So tomorrow, I will take it on.

Not only do I have visions of a systematic arrangement of wardrobe essentials – punctuated of course with a few spectacular special pieces – I want a closet with personality.  I want a closet where I can see what I’m looking for and where I can spend a little time.  One that is feminine, fun and fabulous, and one that inspires just that little bit of extra effort when getting dressed.   And, I hope it ends up being just a little bit like me: sufficiently cluttered so as to not limit creativity, but adequately ordered to ensure efficiency.

Here are a a few that have stirred my closet cravings…

Collage images via Domino, Design-59 & Brilliant Asylum

Well, not I!  And not this past Friday.   Instead, this girlaboutOtown went out to face the frosty temperatures with the fierce conviction that there was fun to be had.  The fella and I, free of the girl, started off at The Wellington Gastropub, a low key establishment in Ottawa West that prides itself on fresh, seasonal food and an eclectic menu that changes frequently.

We were not at all disappointed with our first visit to this popular spot, as our meals were totally tasty, the service was attentive, and the relaxed but sophisticated atmosphere was just what we were looking for to celebrate a personal milestone in style.  Sipping a lovely cabernet sauvignon over  candlelight while watching this lively restaurant fill up, it was easy to see this is a place people return to.  For many, including a cubicle colleague of mine I happened to run into, The Wellington Gastropub was clearly a friendly, customary stop.

Following our early meal, we headed down the street to the Great Canadian Theatre Company to catch their latest production Tempting Providence, stopping first at the local Bridgehead for some after dinner java. 

This was our first foray to the theatre for 2009, and we were genuinely pleased to have had the opportunity to see this  show.  Tempting Providence is the story of a tough-as-nails English nurse with a heart of gold who arrives in Newfoundland to help provide medical services in the early 1900’s, decides to stay, and then settles for good.  It is a spare but clever vignette that offers true insight into early rural life on the rugged Northern coast while inspiring both laughter and empathy about an existence that is at once foreign and familiar.   In keeping with true Canadian spirit, Nurse Myra just does what she has to in order to survive while contributing enormously to the life of her community.

Home we came afterwards, to integrate our evening and to enjoy one last glass of wine…

Yesterday was a work at home day.  The fella retreated to the basement to tackle his projects, and I went into decorating mode.   Having moved to my present house just over a year ago, this girlaboutOtown has been hunkering to turn it into a home.  I have officially lifted my self-imposed moratorium on decorating and will finally get going this year, although I’m in no rush.  This time (and there have been others), I will go slow and get it right. 

Beginning with the bathroom, where we all spend a good bit of personal time, is often fast and easy.  Following through on the details in such a small space makes for almost instant gratification, and gets the creative juices flowing for the bigger jobs done the road. Here are the results of yesterday’s quick fix…

So when we were done, it was off to dinner again with some couple friends we haven’t seen in awhile.  Again, trying something new, we drove East to Louis Steakhouse, a Cyrville Road find that was well worth the trip.  Serving steaks that were simply sublime, this family run restaurant was old school – with a comfortable well-worn dining room, a classic steakhouse menu, and a bona fide serve yourself salad bar.  Suitable for a quick bite after work, visiting parents, or even a dinner date (in front of their lit fire) – this great place is obviously a sleeper success. 

Sunday it is, and I’m back in front of my favourite green machine.  Its snowing outside, but the sun may still peek through.  I’ve got steaming hot coffee, a stack of beautiful books and a big plans to do some design school homework.   Stay tuned…

Is your space a true reflection of your interests, your preferences and your history?

Click here to find yourself at home….

                                  Aerin Lauder’s vanity, via Style Court.

2008 was good to me.  Since starting to blog, this girlaboutOtown has really been out and about.  I’ve been having tons of fun doing different things, exploring new places, meeting inspiring people, and even uncovering cool ideas along the way.  Your encouraging feedback is most appreciated too. Thank you so much for reading!

There is so much more to discover and experience though, and I am resolved to share what I learn as I go.

So, why not make a list? Why not consider a few Ottawa related personal objectives for the upcoming year?  After all, this is the time year when we’re supposed to take stock, reflect and then look forward to what is ahead.  Stretching beyond our individual comfort zone – especially in the context of our community – has immeasurable benefits.  Of this, I am sure. 

Here are a few things I hope to do in 2009…

t Here in Ottawa, there are a host of independent galleries that exhibit works from a range of local, national and international artists.  I don’t stop in to see as often as I would like, and I want to more often.  Vernissage openings seem to me the best option for this, and many galleries host these regularly.  What better way to see new art than in the company of  the artist, with a DJ spinning and a glass of wine in hand? 

This weekend @ Gallerie La Petite Mort Gallery:

Hayden Menzies/Inside & Out/ New Paintings

January 2 – February 4, 2009

Sponsored by CKCU 93.1 FM

Awhile back, I was in San Francisco for one of their First Thursday’s.  Galleries in SF, and now in many other U.S. cities, coordinate events and openings on the first Thursday of every month.  Since then, I’ve wondered about the possibility of a similar tradition here in O-Town?  Until such a time, I will try to find a way to drop into a few more Vernissage openings.

t Similarly, I’m feeling like it might be time to give classical music a serious second try.  The last time I went to listen is now the stuff of family legend.  My Dad and I, in the spirit of  father/daughter bonding, made a date together to the NAC to hear the Orchestra.  Nestled into our cozy seats, enveloped by semi-darkness, and lulled by the sweet sounds of the string instruments, we both promptly fell asleep.  A bonding experience indeed… 

Anyway, I am certain that nowadays, I would appreciate a few evenings  of classical inspiration.  And, what an opportunity to bond with my little girlaboutOtown who has expressed a genuine interest in learning the violin!  Perhaps we’ll try to see Amanda Forsyth, one of Ottawa’s most glamourous and talented women, play in May.  What better way to impress upon a little one that music of all kinds can be cool.  Listen here for more from Ms. Forsyth.

t This year, as my fascination with decorative design,  architecture and antique furniture deepens, I really don’t want to miss Ottawa’s annual House Tours.  By catching even a glimpse of  how others live and how they express themselves, I am sure to gain even greater insight into how it is we find ourselves “at home”.  And, for an added bonus, these house tours are also important fundraisers for worthy local charities. 

I’ll be looking for both the Ottawa West and the IODE annual House Tours later on in the year.

t Also on the list for 2009 is my triumphant return to skis.  It’s been more years than I care to admit since I have donned the downhill’s and there is no avoiding it any longer.  In spite of my aversion to dangerous speeds, bitter cold and silly looking snow pants, I am finally convinced that outdoor pursuits of this nature may actually serve me well.  At the very least, a little winter sun will help ensure a minimum dose of Vitamin D.

In addition, I’ve received a very fine invitation from my Wakefield friend who has kindly offered to host a day of cross-country skiing, followed by a dunk in her hot tub under the stars.    Hmm.  I guess I could be persuaded!

Stay tuned for more ideas and plans for 2009…

Image credits: Painting from Hayden Menzies @ Gallerie La Petite Mort Gallery, Amanda Forsyth.com and The Ottawa West House Tour, and Gorsuch.

Apparently, the construction of Greek furniture pieces was heavily influenced by the work of the Egyptians in materials and technique, although in style, ornamentation and motif, these pieces were quite distinct.  Oak, cedar, olive and boxwood as well as imported species such as maple and ebony were common building materials, with wood veneering, mortise & tenon joinery, and copper, bronze or iron metalwork frequently employed techniques.  It is also thought that leather and vegetable cords were woven to create seats, and that embroidered linens and animal skins may have been transformed into cushions.  Animal skin cushions eh?  No kidding!

Anyway, to this day these ancient classical forms provide a basis for modern western architecture and furniture design.  

For instance, the Klines was the precursor for our contemporary couch (for reclining, eating or sleeping of all things) and the simple, elegant Klismos, with its concave back, square seat and sabre legs, remains one of the world’s most popular – and most reproduced – chairs.  

Greek motifs have been the subject of numerous revivals and continue to be in fashion.  In particular, Greek keys have been popping up everywhere lately, from House Beautiful to design blogs like Apartment Therapy, Style Court and Elements of Style. 

So, what once was old is new again…

• With help from Furniture in History, by Leslie Pina.
• Image Credits:  Furniture Sketch from Furniture Styles, Greek Interior from waycoolpics.blogspot.com,  Martha Stewart Klismos Chair from Bernhardt Furniture, and Bathroom and Throw Cushion images courtesy of Domino.

Local businessman Steve Martin has attracted a considerable amount of curiosity and attention since The Gladstone’s opening earlier this fall, and the shows have been getting rave reviews.  It seems that all of O-town is fascinated by this latest audacious addition to the city’s theatre scene, astonished by Martin’s intrepid renovation of the deserted former home of the Great Canadian Theatre Company, and dazzled by the glamourous design.  Like a rush of wind on a crisp fall day, Steve Martin and the Gladstone theatre have shaken things up here in Ottawa, and are offering up something seriously fresh.

Inspired as always by stories of courage, creativity and commerce, I too wanted to know more about the man in the canary yellow jacket.  So a few weeks back, I set out to track this Mr. Steve Martin down, and see if he might be willing to dish in more detail about himself, his motivation, and his new venture.  As things turned out, he was utterly accessible and totally keen.  Early on a Monday morning, I met him outside the front doors of the theatre.  His shirtsleeves were rolled up and he and his crew were already working hard.  Between productions, they were feverishly switching sets in time for their next opening night.  “We all need to get paid” Martin said, ” we don’t have a lot of time between shows!”.  He did however, make time to sit down and talk, to offer some insight, and to share some stories.

Having been to see The Gladstone’s hit opening production “How the Other Half Loves”, I had kept the show program.  To me, Martin’s passion and warmth was evident even in written form, and the program contained some good clues worthy of further exploration.  Particularly intrigued by his repeated invitation for show- goers to “Experience Theatre”, I began our conversation by asking him what he meant.  More than just a catchy tag line, it was soon clear this is a meaningful mantra for Martin, and it wasn’t long before I found myself nodding in agreement as he elaborated with enthusiasm.

Martin’s dedication to the theatre was instantly obvious.  He expanded on the notion of a live medium with no artificial barriers between players and an audience, and he talked about the skill required by actors who must remain in character for extended periods.  Revealingly, he also lamented that all too often, one’s theatre experience is limited to the darkness surrounding a lit stage, and that many other aspects – from ticket purchase and arrival to coat check and intermission – can leave people cold.

To him, a great night out shouldn’t be contingent solely on the success of a production. Instead, an evening of theatre should be all encompassing, and should generate genuine excitement, anticipation and inspiration.  Because of this fundamental belief, real people answer the phone when you call The Gladstone for seats, there is no glass in the box office window, and smartly uniformed ushers greet you in person with a smile to check you off their guest list.  No anonymous ticket transactions at The Gladstone!  Martin wants people to feel like they’re important from before they arrive until long after the show is over, and he hopes each and every individual remembers their evening out as special event.  Here, he and I see eye to eye.

This “Experience Theatre” philosophy extends to the carefully conceived exterior architecture and interior decor, as well as a consistently high caliber approach to marketing and graphic design.  Even the clever and irreverent show programs, chock full of interesting facts and amusing anecdotes, reflect Martin’s desire to create a lasting memory.

With not much more than a gut feeling and a clear vision of what he perceived was missing in Ottawa, Martin set out to build something different, trusting in his ability to achieve it.  Searching the Internet for inspiration, he collaborated with local experts to customize The Gladstone’s distinctive marquee, refurbish the exterior and to redecorate with his “Experience Theatre” mantra in mind.  With design-builder Gordon Weima,  Judith Wightman a talented hobby decorator (executive headhunter by profession), and Ottawa based marketing firm Sum Inc. among others on the job, a remarkable physical transformation has occurred, and The Gladstone’s uniquely appealing brand has been thoroughly established.  From red curtain to cast, soap dispenser to show program and from wallpaper to website, The Gladstone does not disappoint. 

Characterizing himself as a dreamer in his youth, Martin claims he always had a vivid imagination.  Born in Montreal and raised in the Niagara region, he says whenever he watched TV, he would identify with the protagonist.  “I would imagine myself as Perry Mason” he says, “and I would always be solving mysteries or coming to the rescue.”

Never a huge fan of school, playing pretend evolved into work for Martin very early on.  His first job was sweeping up at the now defunct Maple Leaf Village Amusement Park in Niagara Falls.  It didn’t take him long to move up to master of the midway though, refining his performance skills by attracting scores players to the carnival games with the biggest and best prizes.  While facilitating frivolity and fun, he also discovered his love for acting. This led him to straight to drama class in high school, where he confirmed his passion for the theatre.  Martin still credits his favourite teacher Judy Kirland with igniting this passion, and for nurturing his dreams.

Following high school, Martin continued doing what he loved, acting in various summer theatre productions and filling in with whatever jobs were required for him to survive.  After awhile, his circumstances changed, and he decided it was time for a ’serious’ job with the federal government.  “It was a lot like acting”, he recalls with a smile, “although I’m sure that wasn’t why they hired me!”.  While working at his desk job, and still longing for the stage, Martin came upon ballroom dancing by accident.  Walking in to a studio one day, he inquired what kind of experience was necessary to become an instructor, and was delighted to be hired and then trained.  Martin began his career in professional ballroom dancing right then and there, and hasn’t looked back.

After a couple of moves, Martin eventually ended up in Ottawa with his wife Marilisa Granzotto, also a talented ballroom dancer.  They came to open the Arthur Murray Dance Studio now just up the street from The Gladstone, and the two have worked side by side raising a family and running a business ever since.   In addition to their strong and successful partnership, Martin and his wife are also committed to their family.  For Martin, the kids are a priority, and he is comfortable knowing that by doing what he loves to do and by trying his best to do it well, he is setting a good example.   Now, with his better half running the show at the Dance Studio, Martin is finally starring in the real life role of his lifetime – as hero in his own dream scene.

As much as he loves a good show, opening The Gladstone is all about business for Martin.  Convinced that there is room for a commercial theatre here in Ottawa, he is serious about the success of his endeavour.  Not wanting to rely on philanthropy or public funding, Martin knows that to compete in an “arts & culture town”, he has to provide outstanding customer service in addition top notch performances, and he knows that he needs bodies in the seats. 

It seems Martin’s midway days may have left a lasting impression.  Almost instinctively, he understands that its not just the big prize that brings customers back, it is the sum of their theatre experience.  He also knows the way he deals with people makes or breaks that experience – so he does everything he can to ensure its a good one – even if it means stepping out in a canary yellow jacket.  For Martin, that’s just show business.

Here are some more interesting insights from the man behind the marquee…

♣  What constitutes a perfect day?  Mont Tremblant with my kids.

♣ What is your greatest indulgence?  More than anything, I savour time with my kids.

♣ What are your most treasured belongings?  Photographs.  It may sound cliche, but it is true. 

♣ What impresses you?  Integrity and good service.

♣ Favourite movies?  Ooo.  That’s easy.  I’ve got five, and I never get tired of them.  The original Willy Wonka with Gene Wilder, Groundhog Day with Bill Murray, The Sandlot, The Princess Bride and A Christmas Story.  They’re all feel good stories that are funny without being stupid, and I can watch them with my kids.

♣ Favourite Ottawa spots for eating out?  Dominic over at the Trattoria Caffe Italia on Preston offers fabulous food and great service.  I’m a regular over there, and Dominic looks after me.  Oh, and Moe Attallah’s Newport Restaurant on Richmond Rd. is a local legend for good reason.  His reputation is well earned.  If its not right, he fixes it.  Simple.