Dance meets decor

Home tour raises money for city’s only professional ballet company.

Ballet companies the world over often hold black-tie events attended by those who can afford pricey dinners and silent auctions to support dance culture.

The fundraising event for Citie Ballet (Edmonton’s only resident professional ballet company) features as much sophistication, but is far more accessible to the general public.

On June 21 and 22, Citie Ballet holds its second annual Citie Home Tour, a stylish affair that allows ticket holders to view the interiors of six elegantly decorated private homes in the Edmonton area, as well as their outdoor living spaces and gardens.

“This really is our main fundraiser,” says Melissa Bourgeois, a Citie Ballet board member. “It goes toward allowing us to put on performances that really elevate the art of dance in Edmonton.”

Founded in 1998, Citie Ballet mounts three productions a year that range from neoclassical ballet to modern and contemporary dance. The homes on this year’s tour also showcase an array of styles, including traditional, urban chic and French-inspired.

“We are really impressed and excited about the homes on this year’s tour,” says Bourgeois. “These are one-of-a-kind homes that represent some of the best architecture and design in the Edmonton area.”

Ticket holders will receive a map with addresses of the homes on this self-guided tour. Volunteers will be spending the day at the homes to welcome guests and answer any questions.

REIMAGINED FAMILY HOME

After a two-year sojourn in New Zealand, the owners of this 5,000-square-foot Carter Crest home did a total cosmetic renovation inspired by ocean living. Traditional in style, the design makes generous use of wood and added such classic touches as wall moulding, a riverstone fireplace and antiques. The striking staircase seen in the mirror leads to a large stained-glass window at the top of the stairs.

HISTORIC HOME

The owner of this Old Strathcona home has retained the Old World architectural style while updating the look with artwork, and in particular, black-and-white photography. Sophistication rules with sumptuous colours and textures such as the red in the living room, and plush draperies and decor throughout.

SMALL HOME, BIG PERSONALITY

The owners renovated this newer Terwillegar Towne home to reflect their passion — a collection of antiques, ornaments and treasures gathered from their travels. The sumptuous feast of colours and textures is a visual treat. A comfortable outdoor living space has been carved out of the meticulous and lush backyard.

P h otos: S u p p l i e d ABOVE: This renovated St. Albert bungalow proves you don’t have to live downtown to be hip. The owner, an interior designer, took a suburban home and used a mix of styles and feminine flourishes to create a fresh vibe. The outdoor living space hugs a...

This Garneau home inspired by fine residences in France features an open, airy foyer and classic furnishings.

French doors, uncluttered spaces, neutral colours and framed art evoke a Parisian salon. LEFT: Touring this Garneau home is like escaping to France. From the spacious foyer to the living room, elegance exists throughout the home, delivered through...

P H OTOS: S U P P L I E D Designed and owned by a prominent architect, this unique condo shouts urban and edgy. The Manhattan-style penthouse with a private elevator was once the mechanical room on top of a downtown highrise. The remarkable transformation resulted in an...

Treasures gathered from exotic locales disguise the fact that this is the master bedroom in a suburban Terwillegar Towne home.

Bold colours and strong textures create delightful contrast to Old World architecture in this historic Old Strathcona home’s living room.

Much of this Carter Crest home’s decor is inspired by the time the owners spent near the ocean in New Zealand.