If he is Canadian it will be a polar bear rug you know sirquack.
As others have said decide on a good AVR that will suit your needs it looks as if HT is not your main goal here but something you would like to add on. If so make sure your AVR will accomodate all of your future needs..HDMI inputs/outputs, decoders, power, #of speakers 7.1, 7.2, 9.1 as well as your second zone and maybe even a third zone.
I would then build on my speakers, I personally would start with my mains and a sub and some nice in celing speakers for the kitchen. Then I would add a couple of surrounds and a center in the TV room giving you your 5.1 first and then two more surrounds for 7.1 if you decide to go that extensive.
Then a screen and a PJ and a second sub, a multi remote, light and blind automation, dedicated HT seating, tactile trancducers......Oh my I see a wonderful build starting LOL...there really is no end.
