Northern Sense and Sensibilities / the “Renaissance” of Real Canadian Design

The north is where the action is. From diamond mines to oil sands, the northern regions are coming into their own as the next wave in growth. Towns that were once small and quiet are busting at the seams with demands for services and housing. Design centers are popping up in the most unlikely places and people are hungry for choices and access to products that will enhance and beautify their personal spaces.

In all of this, there is yet to develop a “look “ that exemplifies the style and beauty of the north, a style that is not of the southern cities but of the landscapes and textures that exist in the higher reaches of a vast and wonderous country. Canada has long been a follower, relying on the immigration of European sensibilities and later the multi-ethnic looks that have evolved in the major cities. This diversity has been phenomenal, bringing the best of all worlds together, creating multitudes of design possibilities. Yet the north has been missed. It’s own “flavours” have been tucked away, waiting patiently for recognition.

When we think of the north, many images come to mind like the great herds of caribou and their tanned coats against the charcoal horizon, the white winter fluff of rabbits and the fox., the dancing electric rainbow of the northern lights, soft emerald mosses and the clear jade green of lakes and rivers, the sparkle of ice crystals and glint of icicles. We think of furs and warmth, fire and snow, long cold nights and bright sunny days that are short and sweet. If we were to incorporate these images into a pallet of colours and textures, we would find out how rich and magnificent this look could be.

From Edmonton north, this sense of working with our own unique look would bring us to the forefront of new thoughts on design. Imagine homes developing both internally and externally with this very idea in mind. Imagine how exciting it would be to chart new territory and have our own special place in the world of décor and architecture.

Think for a moment. Visualize your space as a haven of peace and tranquility, colours reminiscent of the far reaches of the endless northern horizon. Warm greys and charcoals intermixed with soft textural whites. Brilliant touches of glass that recreate the image of ice. Soft materials in natural warm tones that remind us of fur and cozy nights by a fire.

These days, availability of products that can accommodate this look are plentiful and varied. Magazines encompass every possible idea from the sublime to the ridiculous, from traditional to ultra modern and all that exists in between. The internet has opened up the purchasing territory to such an extent that no one has to live without that special item or product anymore. Where there is the will, there is the way and it only becomes a personal matter of money and tenacity.

Nevertheless, the north has not received it’s due …yet.

If we were to establish a “northern” design ethos, all of the fabulous native art and sculpture would go mainstream, become available to a larger population and not to just the occasional collector or tourist. So much of this intense beauty and imagery is dedicated to the collector and tourist rather than the discerning homeowner looking to establish a uniquely Canadian element to his or her personal environment.

What a shame. The west coast has the “ Pacific Coast “ look, open, natural and contemporary. The east coast has the charm and character of traditional European Colonial. The central regions have leaned toward traditional country styles. More recently, the advent of numerous condominium projects within the hearts of western cities has brought forth looks from New York , Miami, Los Angeles giving us trends that exude a lofty, modern appeal. Minimalism has taken off and Victorian clutter has waned. Trends certainly come and go and through evolution, ideas meld and flow. We tire quickly, waiting for the new best thing to excite us. Very little attention gets paid to the timeless, the elemental nature of things that have always been here and always will be. The north has such tenacity. Yet at the same time it is uncharted, a free flow of possibilities and a future full of promise but also of danger. The danger is losing our connection to the true nature of our environment, working with it rather than against it. In a world where conservation is critical, we owe the north attention. By turning our attention to its diversity and beauty, we bring forth awareness. Maybe it is worth preserving, not only for aesthetic purposes but for its own intrinsic value.

When you are visualizing and planning your next home design project, think about the north.

This can be achieved with the right materials and the right advise. There is considerable access to professionals in the industry who would love to engage the willing homeowner in trying out new looks. Currently, the flooring industry has a lot to offer in new and exciting colours and textures. When you are thinking of your next renovation project, talk to someone who is knowledgeable and willing to engage in new ideas. You won’t be disappointed.

Sandra Saturley