Homes. Gardens. Neighbourhoods. Lives Well Lived.
Written and curated by Julie Teskey
Welcome to THIS IS HOME — a collection of stories about interesting houses, thoughtful design, gardens, neighbourhoods and, most importantly, the reflections by the people who bring them to life.
I remember their excitement, their uncertainty, their humour, their resilience, and the quiet generosity of sharing a small part of their lives with me.
For forty-five years, I have had the privilege of walking through thousands of front doors across Ottawa. I remember beautiful houses, certainly. But even more than that, I remember the people who welcomed me inside.
Behind every front door is a story that never appears on a floor plan. It lives in morning coffee by a favourite window, family dinners that linger long into the evening, gardens planted with hope, children growing up, quiet conversations, laughter, and the ordinary moments that slowly become a lifetime.
THIS IS HOME was born from those conversations.
It is a place to celebrate thoughtful homes, beautiful gardens, remarkable neighbourhoods and the lives that give them meaning. It is not simply about buying or selling real estate. It is about understanding why a house becomes a home, and why some places stay with us long after we have left them.
Along the way you will hear some of the homeowners’ own words and reflections, discover extraordinary architecture and design, wander through gardens or terraces, and explore neighbourhoods and lifestyles through the eyes of the people who know them best.
Because every home has many stories. The ones we can see. And the ones we are trusted to hear.
Thank you to everyone who has ever opened their front door, welcomed me inside, and allowed me to be a small part of their story.
This journal is for you.
Julie Teskey
