This immersive episode of the Rewind Design Show is a rich dialogue with dynamic duo Kelly and Robert from the acclaimed architectural firm, Akb Architects. We delve into their architectural interests, personal paths, and outstanding work in cottage property design. Born and raised in different parts of Toronto, they shed some light on their early influences and formative expferiences that inspired their architectural pursuits.

Kelly, the Creative Director, shares insightful thoughts about her meticulous approach to design decision making. In contrast, Robert, the Technical Director, enamors listeners with his passion for building structures and finding practical solutions to architectural challenges. The episode also intricately unfolds their personal lives, painting a vivid portrait of their harmonious work partnerships, family life, and sustainable architectural practices.

A remarkable highlight is their work on the Whistling Wind Project, an innovative island cottage property beautifully balanced with the surrounding nature in Pointe du Baril. Despite the challenges, they have created a functional, and luxurious cottage that stands as a testament to their architectural rigor and environmental concern.

This insightful discussion with the founders of Atelier Kastelic Buffey is a must-listen for all architecture and design enthusiasts. It provides extensive knowledge about sustainable architecture practices and the role of architecture in enhancing the quality of life. Discover an inspiring world where architecture, personal journeys, and sustainability meet.

LINKS

Akb Architects - https://www.akb.ca/

Rewind Design - https://rewinddesign.ca/

In today's episode of the Rewind Design podcast, host Katy McNabb welcomes experts Katrina Krievins and Tianna Burke from the Georgian Bay Biosphere for an intriguing conversation on ecology, conservation, and sustainable living. This compelling episode examines various topics like the impact of certain construction on the environment and the importance of adopting sustainable building practices, shedding light on the organization's initiatives and programs.

The discussion deep-dives into the 'State of the Bay' report - an effort encapsulating changes in the Eastern Georgian Bay's environment. Katrina, a significant contributor to the report, walks us through the key findings related to water quality, fish communities, and coastal wetlands. Further, this episode explores how citizens can contribute to conservation and focuses on fostering a sustainable co-existence with the myriad species within the natural ecosystem.

The podcast also delves into sustainable development and its increasing relevance in the wake of intense construction activities in the area. We discuss the need to respect the land and learn about helpful tools such as the Biosphere Habitat Screening Tool and the Life on the Bay Guide that encourage mindful construction practices. We conclude by highlighting simple, implementable practices like maintaining natural shorelines and habitat restoration for a healthier bay.

In this enlightening discussion, Katy McNabb, together with her guests, explores the balance between respecting natural habitats and developing new land. We look into the construction permitting processes, learn about safeguarding soil from erosion during construction, and stress on the vitality of considering wildlife nesting seasons. We learn about the current awareness of invasive species among cottagers, the importance of native species, and the influence of local plant genetics.

The episode ends by emphasizing the need for environmental awareness, respect, and coexistence. It encourages listeners to get involved and contribute in their own way to preserving the environment, leveraging opportunities like the iNaturalist Project, or even volunteering their time and efforts. It serves as a reminder of our shared responsibility to nurture our backyards for the future generation.

https://georgianbaybiosphere.com/

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Instagram - www.instagram.com/rewind.design/

Webstie - www.rewinddesign.ca

Welcome to a unique episode of the Rewind Design Podcast, where we dive into the fascinating world of the Georgian Bay Biosphere.

Today’s episode of the Rewind Design podcast is being brought to you by the ThinkBoyd Real Estate Team. The Team of Nicole and Geoff believe that buying or selling real estate is more than just a transaction – it’s a connection that should feel like working with family. For their local perspective and sage advice, If you’re thinking of buying or selling, think Boyd. Part of Royal LePage Team Advantage, Realty Brokerage Inc. Think Boyd Real Estate Team.

https://thinkboyd.com/

In an informative and enlightening conversation, we speak with Becky Pollock, the Executive Director of the Georgian Bay Biosphere. We explore the Biosphere's history, designation by UNESCO and its mission to preserve and enhance the area while ensuring sustainable development.

Walk with us through the world of conservation and the role of the Biosphere in preserving the Georgian Bay region from invasive species, climate change, and uninformed development impacts. Understand how every action, big or small, influences our environment and biodiversity.

We also discuss the Biosphere's intentional respect and acknowledgment of the Anishinaabeg people, and the efforts made to incorporate their culture and language in various initiatives. This journey culminates with our observation of the development and leadership opportunities provided to Indigenous youth, namely through the Georgian Bay Anishinaabeg Youth initiative.

Be a part of the engaging conversation about sustaining our incredible natural landscape and the significant emphasis on relationship-building in our work. Draw inspiration from our visioning project and understand the importance of education for rectifying misconceptions. Conclude with us on the note of preserving our natural resources for our future generations, encapsulating the true aims of the Biosphere.

https://georgianbaybiosphere.com/

FOLLOW REWIND DESIGN!

Instagram - www.instagram.com/rewind.design/

Webstie - www.rewinddesign.ca

Embark on a fascinating journey with us in this special episode of "Rewind Design" as we discuss shoreline management practices with an industry expert, Amanda Kellett, from Tatham Engineering. Get a detailed tour of the firm's extensive history and understand its contributions to various engineering fields such as land development, municipal engineering, structural and water resources engineering.

We delve into an array of engaging topics including risk mitigation, design adaptations, and protection measures that span across boathouses, docks, and shorelines. Amanda discusses insights into the world of shoreline protection and erosion mitigation, exploring traditional methods and uncovering innovative, nature-based solutions.

We go deeper, discussing the incorporation of 'gray-green' practices, the effectiveness of vegetative revetments as well as the resilience of shoreline vegetation. We end with an insightful question-answer session, leaving no stone unturned.

Dive into an in-depth discussion regarding the symbiosis of architectural design and sustainability, a conversation that focuses on the important concept of sustainable shoreline conservation. Learn about the two-sided coin of material choice and placement while discussing the successful Sunset Point eco shoreline project.

The episode concludes by mapping out future perspectives in sustainable shoreline management, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between stakeholders. Tune in and uncover the secrets of building and living better, sustainably in cottage settings!

Welcome to a captivating episode of Rewind Design featuring John O'Connor from Basis Design Build, the genius behind some of the most sustainable and unique cottages in Cottage Country. In this episode, we delve into John's architectural journey, from his initial foray into the industry to developing his own Architecture Firm.

Unpack the mysteries of architectural decisions as John shares invaluable insights into the thought processes and challenges involved in crafting residential spaces. Learn about the crucial role of effective communication and proper coordination in architecture, and the factors that can affect the course of a project.

Explore the intriguing world of cottage design with an emphasis on sustainability. Discover how size, energy conservation, and maintenance costs impact the construction process, and how principles of sustainable living can be creatively integrated into the design of stunning cottages.

Dive deep into 'Project 22', a remarkable example of innovation, comfort, and meaningful contact with nature. John shares the unique design features and architectural decisions that went into creating this exceptional waterfront cottage.

Finally, embark on a thoughtful discussion about future-proof architecture, with a focus on designing for a comfortable and luxuriant old age. This stimulating conversation offers visionary solutions for future homeowners.

Whether you are a cottage enthusiast, a budding architect, or just fascinated by sustainable design, this is a must-listen episode. Immerse yourself in the remarkable world of architectural brilliance!

Basis Design Build - https://www.basisdesignbuild.com/

Rewind Design Studio - www.rewinddesign.ca

Welcome to Episode 8 of Rewind Design Season 2! If you are brand new to this podcast, welcome! My name is Katy McNabb and I am a registered Interior Designer working in Ontario’s Cottage Country. I am on a mission to share sustainable ways of building, promote green energy and document the history of the cottage country.

In this week’s bonus episode, I have a cottage story to share! I had the pleasure of meeting with Julien LeBourdais, his daughter Lisa and his son in law Matthew. As far as his cottage history goes, Julien is a multigenerational cottager spanning back to the late 1800s.

In this emotional episode, we discover how each generation has enjoyed the wonder and solitude of Georgian Bay – through three different locations. He is now known in the community as the local historian, writing articles for the Sans Souci Copperhead association. We love to see his updates pop up online with a snippit from the past! Before his retirement he had an wonderful career as a photojournalist, photographing sports, celebrities and even royalty! He freelanced for the Toronto Star, then the United Press International to the United Press Canada!

• What is a Georgian Bay Girl? - Will you pass Lisa’s grandmother’s test?

• An island that was purchased for $25

• Lisa remembers returning retuning to L’Islet island decades later and discovering something her cousin had left hidden in the cottage…

Welcome to Episode 7 of Rewind Design Season 2! If you are brand new to this podcast, welcome! My name is Katy McNabb and I am a registered Interior Designer working in Ontario’s Cottage Country. I am on a mission to share sustainable ways of building, promote green energy and document the history of the cottage country.

In this week’s episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing Scott Mifflin from Sustainable Cottages - www.sustainablecottages.ca

Here is a quick summary of Sustainable Cottages from their website:

Welcome to Sustainable Cottages, your trusted leader in solar pv design and installation. We supply industry leading Solar PV equipment and work with a team of engineers to design a system that meets all of your energy needs no matter how remote your location. We are a turn-key solution for all your Solar pv needs. Sustainable Cottages has provided Georgian Bay, Muskoka, lake of bays and The Kawartha Lakes with the highest quality Off-Grid, Hybrid, and Grid-Tie Solar PV equipment, system design, and installation since 2011

Kamryn Elkin works with Scott as a client liaison in Pointe au Baril + design assistant. You can find here here: www.instagram.com/kam.elkin !

• Solar installation on Georgian Bay’s off grid islands

• The different types of solar design + batteries

• How Scott founded Sustainable Cottages + his love of sustainable design

Welcome to Episode 6 of Rewind Design Season 2! If you are brand new to this podcast, welcome! My name is Katy McNabb and I am a registered Interior Designer working in Ontario’s Cottage Country. I am on a mission to share sustainable ways of building, promote green energy and document the history of the cottage country.

In this week’s episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing Jordan Hofstra dein Zinco Canada.

Here is a quick summary of Zinco from their website:

For over 50 years, ZinCo has been committed to incorporating nature back into the urban landscape through the manufacturing and supply of the most advanced green roofs available. Green roofs that will work to offset the environmental impact of building structures, cool micro-climates by up to two degrees, capture and manage storm water and alleviate noise pollution for decades to come.

• Green rooving systems in Cottage Country, will they withstand the elements?

• What type of planting do you use for green rooves?

• What makes a green roof so sustainable?

• What is a sedum plant?