Rewind Design Katy McNabb

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!

IN THIS WEEK’S EPISODE WE DISCUSS:

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…

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!

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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In an informative and enlightening conversation, we speak with Becky Pollack, 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.

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/

Welcome to Episode 2 of Rewind Design Season 2! I am beyond excited to share this episode with all the cottage lovers out there. I had the opportunity to sit down and speak with David Ballentine, owner of Ballentine Construction, all about cottage design, restoration + his unique approach to building on the Bay. David is a lifelong cottager in Pointe au Baril, and a longtime Parry Sound resident.

Ballentine Construction provides renovation, construction and maintenance services throughout Pointe au Baril and Georgian Bay. They are known for their high quality craftsmanship, their client relationships as well as their sympathetic approach to cottage restoration, with David claiming they “save everything” they possible can to be repurposed. They can lovingly renovate a generations-old cottage, maintaining its ambience while subtly incorporating modern touches to make it more comfortable, as well as more cost and energy efficient.

You can find their work at ballentineconstruction.com

In this week’s episode we discuss:

Historic Restoration - what is possible to restore and repurpose

Environmental impact of cottages + how we can design and build with less impact

Challenges of building on island properties