While I don’t think anyone could accuse me of not living life to the fullest, it might be possible to say that, at times, I need to spread my wings and step outside my comfort zone! My editor’s photo clearly establishes my attempts at spreading those wings . . . I have never actually been so up-close and personal with a horse before, but I loved it! The photo was a result of a visit to Mariposa Farms and you can read more about this enchanting spot in “Let’s Dish.”

Readers are going to love how we have stepped outside of the city limits with features that take us from the far west, to the far east, and across the river. We unearth interesting stories of people making the most of their lives while being true to their authentic styles. And our food section explores the best of the best – looking at food and restaurants all worthy of splurging on. Whether it’s an indulgence of calories or budget, our recommendations won’t disappoint.

This issue offers up three renovations with exciting before-and-after shots to showcase the potential of a job well done! We also visit with one of Ottawa’s most respected kitchen designers, who shares with us his definition of what style is. To discover why it’s really just all so simple . . . read more in “Designer At Home.”

If you’re sensing a theme – you are on to something and so are we! With each issue our team strives to bring you the best of what the city has to offer. This time we take it to the next level by embracing luxury. “Capital Shops” features one of the city’s finest antique stores. “In Step” looks at adding some of that Old Hollywood Glamour by stepping up window treatments, and “On Second Thought” focuses on the beauty of living luxuriously everyday.

Finally we offer two features focusing on giving back. One pays homage to a man whose chosen path allows him the luxury of embracing his true calling and to be able to share this gift with others. The other nurtures the voyeur within as Ottawa At Home takes a private tour of two of the “Homes for the Holidays” houses with more before-and-after transformations.

As always, may you enjoy this issue as much as we enjoyed putting it together 
for you!



Mary Taggart

Editor in Chief

P.S. Don’t forget to write to

mary.taggart@transcontinental.ca.

Follow us on Twitter @ ottawaathomemag.