All About Home magazine (September 2013) by All About Home magazine

SEPTEMBER 2013

FIREPLACES BECOME AFFORDABLE FOR APARTMENTS AND OFFICES Page 13 FREE MONTHLY MAGAZINE DISTRIBUTED DIRECTLY TO HOUSEHOLDERS

The floor Vase Men have used floor vases for centuries, starting with ancient Greeks who, if the truth is to be told, used them not as a decorative but rather as a practical object: to store loose substances and liquids. In the Middle Ages though, floor vases became a decorative element in the dwellings of aristocracy and affluent people. Today, these containers are widely used in decorating various places including private homes and apartments, hotels, offices, and shopping centres. Nevertheless, in many places they are still considered a symbol of prosperity. The floor vase is an exquisite and elegant feature in interior design that emphasizes the decor style of the room. Some people look at floor vases as trinkets, not realizing that a correctly chosen vessel may add interest and charm to the whole scheme of decor. To make sure you are dealing with a floor vase look at its height: containers 40 to 90 centimetres in height are considered suitable to be placed on the floor. Vases less than 40 cm in height should be placed on elevated surfaces such as table and furniture tops or counters. Floor vases come in various materials including ceramics, earthenware, china, glass,

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metal, or wood. Each has its own appeal: simple ceramic vessels in the antique, ethnic, or retro style make a beautiful statement while classic floor vases, hand painted or with moulding, look especially luxurious. Interior designers like using in their decorating projects glass vases whose intricate shapes, a wide range of hues, and unusual look make them the best modern decorative element. Wood, bronze, and bamboo varieties match any ethnic style interior. Metal vases are great for a hi-tech style, and wooden, for the minimalistic one. It is not enough for your floor vase to match the decor â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it has to set its character! When deciding on what style floor vase to buy, first of all, define the spot you want to place it. Having sufficient room around your floor vessel is mandatory; therefore, they are most popular for decorating spacious places, not small ones. Place your vase in an open space: in an uncluttered corner, beside the window, or between two pieces of furniture. The colours, design, and texture of the container should match those of the general decorative style of the room. A floor vase as a decorative element stands all by itself; it does not need any embellishments. Nevertheless, cut flowers or an artificial arrangement will look great in it, as well as a composition of dry branches and leaves. What is important in this matter is to keep to the dimension formula: large bouquets look best in wide squat containers while slender compositions and single flowers should go into narrow and tall vessels.

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September 2013 ALL ABOUT HOME

Leather Tiles Interior designers and decorative material manufacturers keep proving that human imagination has no limits. One of such new trends is the leather tile that can create unusual and rich decor. No other material can produce quite the same level of luxury. Leather tiles look great in rooms of any size, and there is no need to additionally decorate leather tile walls because their natural beauty is sufficient to transform any kind of decor. Whether it is used on the walls, the floor, or the ceiling, the leather tile looks exquisite. Leather tiles come in various sizes, shapes, and finishes. They can be manufactured from both natural and artificial leather. The

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artificial one of course costs less while having practically the same look as the natural one that is made of pigskin, oxen skin, or alligator skin. The shape of the tile may be square, rectangular, hexagonal, with wavy edges, octagonal, or diamond. Even for those customers who need the leather tile in a custom shape, it can be easily done thanks to advanced technologies. Of course, it may be quite costly but you can be sure that no one else will have the same look to their floor, ceiling or walls. Another advantage of the leather tile is easy care â&#x20AC;&#x201C; just wash it regularly with soapy water and rub with oil if your leather tiles have natural origin; the artificial ones will look better if treated with alcohol-containing liquid. Never use steam cleaners on leather tiles. The same goes for bleaches. As mentioned above, the leather tile costs more than other types of covering. If using

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it on the entire surface of your wall, ceiling, or floor is too expensive, try to create a leather insert in a decoratively strategic place: for example, next to a classically shaped sofa or your fireplace to generate a focal point in your decor. Moreover, because natural and artificial leather tiles look similar, there is no need overpaying by purchasing the natural ones. Artificial tiles look spectacular and skillfully imitate the texture of real leather. Your visitors who do not possess professional knowledge in the area of interior decorating will hardly realize the difference but everyone will notice the unusual look of your room. Leather tiles have many advantages besides the variety of colours and shapes, including the simplicity of installation and easy repairs.

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BATHURST/ SHEPPARD

remodeled and renovated. Excellent layout. Dark eng. wood & porcelain floors, flat ceilings, Incredible Bathurst Manor Backsplit on potlights, new custom front, interior, garage a huge lot 52x169ft. About 2500 sq.ft. doors, all custom vanities. Exquisite gourmet 3+1-bdrms, 3- wshrs. Completely kitchen w/marble counter and backsplash, built-in VIKING S/S appliances, island w/builgin gas range. Large dining with w/out deck. Large family with w/out to patio w/lime stone interlock. Master w/ensuite (Jacuzzi & shower stall) and W/I closet. Prof. finished basement w/bdrm and 3-pc wshr. New insulation to walls &attic, 200 amp. Designerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s painting... Asking $989,000 too many to list. Just see it!!

DUFFERIN/TESTON, CITY OF VAUGHAN Asking $2,675,000

YONGE/BAYVIEW/OLD COLONY, Richmond Hill

Asking $699,900

Stunning, suitable for any type of family bungalow w/loft. 3+1-bdrms, 4-wshr. Excellent layout. 9ft ceilings. Hardwood &limestone floors. Master bdrm w/ensuite on main floor, bdrms w/semi-ensuites on 2nd. Custom kitchen with built-in brand name S/S appliances, granite c/top. Professionally finished basement w/ kitchen, family room, bedroom, bath. Located in desirable area - lots of parks, lake, ice arena, new community centre.

Magnificent home on a premium RAVINE 0.7 acre lot, backing onto conservation area. Absolute paradise and elegance about 5200 sq.ft. and 2300 sq.ft lower level. 4 bdrms+2 bdrms+ library, 6 wshrs. A fusion of classic and contemporary elegance with impressive architectural details & superb craftsmanship. Luxuriously upgraded including smooth high ceilings, Brazil cherry hardwood, cornice mouldings, baroque columns, custom wrought iron Juliette balconies and staircase with flying cherry wood stairs, stone fireplaces, granite floors. Exquisite dream gourmet kitchen with built-in S/S high end appliances. All bedrooms have ensuites reverted with tumble marble. Gem of the property are stunning grounds with waterfall, swimming pool, golf, French garden, large greenhouse, spectacular patio and pagoda. Fully equipped home theatre with sound isolation, wainscoting panels, ceilings and Tiffany scones! 800K spent on upgrades! Too many to list! This home is a true masterpiece!

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TESTON/BATHURST, VAUGHAN

Asking $619,900

Upper Thornhill Estates!! Stunning 2,000 sq.ft. 4-yrs old detached home on a premium corner lot. 3 bdrms, 3 wshrs. Featured with double door entrance, oak stairs, hardwood floors on main, modern shutters throughout. Large kitchen w/breakfast area. Large master w/ensuite & W/I closet. Large 2nd bdrm w/semi-ensuite & balcony. Interlocked front & side yards. 1-car garage, 2 parking spaces on driveway. Close to community centres, Mill Pond, schools, plaza.

CONDO TOWNHOUSE BATHURST/ STEELES

Asking 359,900

Bright and spacious condo townhome - end unit in a desirable private complex, about 1300 sq.ft. 2 bdrms, 2 wshrs. Modern kitchen with S/S appliances. Large master w/cathedral ceilings. Hardwood floors on main. Large skylite over stairs. Direct gas line for BBQ. Finished basement with access to underground parking. 24-hours gated security. Close to plaza, schools, TTC.

September 2013 ALL ABOUT HOME

HOW TO CHOOSE the best Solar PV System?

If you’re looking to invest in solar power for your home or office, it is best to know more about the panels being installed. You will want to install the most efficient system you can find. But without proper knowledge you can get easily confused when making your purchase.

Poly vs. Mono

In Ontario, you can find solar panels of two types. The first type is called polycrystalline solar cell. This is derived from a crystal that is multilayered or grows in different directions. This lowers the efficiency of the solar cell in electricity production. The other type is made of monocrystalline solar cells. These are more difficult to produce and therefore are more expensive. Monocrystalline solar cells cost more than polycrystalline for the same size. Monocrystalline cells have higher efficiency than polycrystalline cells due to the structure being made from one large crystal as opposed to many small ones. In addition to having better efficiency overall, monocrystalline panels can perform up to 10% better than polycrystalline panels in high ambient temperatures. Since monocrystalline panels are more efficient per area, the size of the solar panel is lower than that of a polycrystalline solar panel for the same wattage. If you are limited on size and want to get the highest possible energy production, monocrystalline panels are a better choice.

Micro vs. String

Solar photovoltaic panels generate DC (direct current) electricity. A solar inverter converts DC power to AC power so it can provide electricity that is suitable for use in your home or business. There are two types of inverters used in solar installations today: a central “string” inverter and a multiple small “micro” inverter. Micro-inverters are relative newcomers to the marketplace and despite their higher cost (as much as 30% more than a central inverter) their popularity has been growing rapidly.

part of a micro-inverter based system. Besides, there’s no single point of failure with micro-inverters. So why should anyone undergo the disadvantages of string inverters if there is no benefit? The main reason for anyone using a string inverter is the leveraged cost. Provided a system’s power rating is optimized between the solar panels and the inverter, string inverters may have cost advantage. The other main issue is the location and size of the solar photovoltaic system. When dealing with large scale photovoltaic power plants, especially in rural areas with no surrounding buildings, string inverters are a preferable solution. In PV power plants, using a number of central (string) inverters in a modular structure is preferable than using micro-inverters. Logistest Solar is aiming to be the forerunner of solar panels installation and sale in off-grid and grid tie solar PV projects. Not only do we help install the panels but we also aid in the registration and designing of solar PV systems. At Logitest Inc., we value quality over quantity. Contact us to design a system based on your electricity consumption needs and budget today. Logitest Solar Phone: 416-479-3555, Fax: (905)761-9778 Email: info@logitestsolar.ca Address: 42-400 Creditstone Rd. Concord, ON, L4K 3Z2, Canada

Micro-inverters allow solar panels to operate independently of each other. So, if one module ends up in the dark, the others just keep on buzzing, resulting in much higher average system availability. Traditionally string solar arrays have losses due to module mismatch, connections, and DC wiring runs — none of which are

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September 2013 ALL ABOUT HOME

CDs as a Decor Element Not many people nowadays use old computer CDs. They have outlived their usefulness with the hard disk capacity having increased hundreds and thousand times – enough to hold any amount of data, while the hi-speed Internet makes the necessity of recording information on a disk obsolete, and the price of external drives is unbelievably low. All these factors combined made the once indispensible CD-ROM obsolete. If you, like many other people, still haven’t gotten around to getting rid of old disks, here are a few ideas for giving them another go. For example, you can affix a couple of them onto your bicycle or mailbox as reflectors, install a few of them in the garden as scarecrows, or construct a great and unusual table lamp. The variety of projects using old CDs and DVDs is tremendous. You can recreate the projects in the photographs easily. On the other hand, some of them may inspire you to conceive and execute with your own hands a few unique creations.

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www.fayrealestate.ca email: fayservices@yahoo.com AURORA SOUTH

OASIS IN THE CITY! Enjoy the view of sunset at your incredible backyard (67’ x187’ Lot) surrounded by mature trees backing to conservation area!! Beautiful house, about 2400 Sq.Ft., 5+1-bdrm, 4-wshr. Very clean & comfortable. Unique layout. All large rooms. Lots of updates: roof 2011, new CAC, new high efficiency furnace. Limestone & hardwood floors. Family room with wood fireplace & W/O to huge sun deck. Nice updated kitchen with limestone & hardwood flrs with W/O to garden. Gorgeous FINISHED BASEMENT with recreation room, huge bedroom, new laminated floors, potlights, large closet, separate shower, bath, kitchenette. Oversized 2-car garage, interlock & much more… Walking distance to best schools in area, golf course, stores, transit. Very close to Yonge St. Do not miss!

INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY. DUFFERIN & STEELES

Very spacious & bright 1-bdrm, 1-wshr unit with balcony. Laminated floors. Gorgeous South-West view! Modern kitchen with granite countertop & S/S appliances. Great location near TTC, shops, banks, restaurants. Super rec. facilities. Locker, parking. Presently tenanted with A+++ tenant who is willing to stay.

DIRECT:

416-889-9955 Each office is independently owned and operated

BATHURST & CENTRE

Prestigious Thornhill City Centre! Gorgeous 1-bdrm + den, 2-wshr unit, about 730 Sq.Ft. with balcony & unobstructed view of 5-acre park. Large & bright living/dining room. Modern kitchen with granite countertop & breakfast bar. Spacious den can be used as 2nd bdrm. Desirable building with all luxury amenities: indoor pool, gym, sauna, party room. Steps to Wal-Mart, Promenade Mall & more.

HOMELIFE VICTORY REALTY INC. Brokerage 10720 Yonge St, #226, Richmond Hill, ON L4C 3C9 BUS: 905-737-0033 FAX: 905-737-3132

YONGE & CLARISSA (RICHMOND HILL)

Amazing price! 2- bdrm, 2-wshr spacious unit in a well maintained building. Very clean and ready to move-in. Large living & dining room with walkout to balcony. Large master bdrm with W/I closet and 4-pc ensuite. Indoor & outdoor pool, gym, tennis crt. Parking included. Low maintenance fee includes all utilities. Close to Yonge, shopping mall, public transportation.

Asking $295,000

Asking $279,900

Asking $649,900

YONGE & STEELES

Spacious & bright 2+1-bdr, 2-wshr unit in excellent condition. Freshly painted. Beautiful east view from enclosed balcony. Parquet floors throughout. Large kitchen with breakfast area and window. LOWEST MAINTENANCE FEE IN AREA, $371.00 includes all utilities, even cable TV. Walk to Centrepoint Plaza. One bus to Finch subway and York University.

Asking $334,900

RICHMOND HILL

Stunning & bright, about 1900 Sq.Ft, 3-bdrm, 4-wshr SEMI-DETACHED on premium crescent lot. $$ spent on upgrades. Stylish open concept floor plan. Spacious living room area with gas fireplace & TV niche! Large kitchen with extended cabinets, granite countertop, backsplash, undermount sink & S/S appliances. W/O to 2-tier custom deck. Hardwood floors. Professionally painted throughout. Direct access to garage. Professionally finished basement. Close to all amenities.

Asking $495,000

ATTENTION INVESTORS! BATHURST & FINCH

4+3-bdr, 6-wshrm SEMI-DETACHED BUNGALOW in the heart of North York! Great income potential! Very functional layout. Hardwood floors on main level. Completely finished basement with 3-bdrm, bath, kitchen & separate entrance. Coin operated laundry. Carport for 1 car. Driveway for 5 cars. Close to public transit, parks, schools, North York Hospital.

Asking $619,900

RICHMOND HILL BUNGALOW WITH LOFT

Stunning, rare, suitable for any type of family! 3+1-bdrm, 4-wshr with excellent layout, located in desirable area (great schools, lots of parks, lake, ice arena, new gorgeous community centre). This house has master bdrm with ensuite on first floor and two bedrooms with bathroom on 2nd floor. Finished basement with kitchen, bdrm, fam. room & bath. Lots of renovations have been done! Custom beautiful kitchen w/central island & limestone floors, granite counter, newer S/S appliances with Bosch cooktop. New custom curtains & much more...

RICHMOND HILL (WESTBROOK)

Fabulous Westbrook home, 5-bdrm, 3-wshr, over 3300 Sq.Ft. Professionally landscaped on a premium lot (44.29x141.19 Feet). Completely upgraded. Excellent floor plan. Open concept with 9’ ceilings. Library with French door on main level. Circular oak stairs, potlights, crown mouldings. Family room. Two fireplaces. New roof. All bedrooms are very large. Too many good features to list... Excellent location with great schools, including French School. Must see!

NEWMARKET

High demand area of Woodland Hills. Beautiful detached house with 2-car garage, 3-bdrm, 4-wshr. Open concept floor plan, high ceilings, hardwood floors, oak staircase, crown mouldings. Modern kitchen with central island, stainless steel appliances. Family room with gas fireplace. Good size all bedrooms, two of them with W/I closets. Partially finished basement. Direct access to 2-car garage. Very close to schools, parks, shopping, transit.

Asking $515,000

RUTHERFORD & DUFFERIN

Rare on market! Unique layout. Bright & spacious, 4-bdrm, 5-wshr house with office on main level with SEPARATE ENTRANCE, which can be used as 5th bdrm or for home business. High ceilings, potlights, crown mouldings. Large family room with gas fireplace & vaulted ceilings. Very nice kitchen with granite countertop, central island, S/S appliances & walk-out to deck. Large bedrooms, three of them have W/I closets. Large backyard. Excellent location. Close to good schools, parks, Go train & bus.

Asking $688,800

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September 2013 ALL ABOUT HOME

People who are always happy to have company over often have a huge table in their dining room that is so conductive of festive gatherings, delicious food, silver utensils, and delicate china. The table is probably the most frequently used piece of furniture in our homes: we exploit it at least once every day; besides, it is subjected to an increased amount of moisture.

The dining tables of today often look like works of designer art. Their special feature is lightness and portability. It is important, from decorative point of view, to choose the right shape of the tabletop. Square or rectangular tabletops are of course the most customary and popular. They are very convenient for seating. You can find tabletops of this shape in wood, metal, or glass. They often become part of designers’ dining sets because they look great with any style of seats – from classic stools to captain chairs.

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Dinner Is Served Many people though prefer round or oval dining tables that create an aura of goodwill and promote a leisurely dialog. Whether it is a gourmet dinner accompanied by a good wine or a shared pizza with soft drinks or beer, any kind of meal seems better if it is partaken at a round table. The only problem is that a table of this shape needs more space; therefore it is suitable for larger size dining rooms only. Oval tabletops are considered the most capacious and can be placed in separate dining rooms or spacious kitchens. A solid

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base made of two double-jointed bearings can withstand even considerably-sized extensions. Chairs to use with this table are usually of a standard design, upholstered in leather or fabric. Even if as it seems the tradition of family dinners at a big table has been fast becoming the thing of the past, there are enough families who follow this tradition down to the smallest points – family china, table silver, several courses, intimate conversation, and the warmth of people dear to one another’s heart.

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This stunning transformation was nothing short of spectacular! Custom built-in cabinetry, unique modern art, eclectic mix of beautiful fabrics in aquas, deep blues, and earth tones. Relaxing yet elegant, perfect for everyday living….

Before

After Customer’s testimonial: We are very grateful to Catherine of Royal Interior Designs for her expert advice and co-ordination of our renovations. Her sense of style, energy, her vision of the final result, elegance, and punctuality made our renovation project a success. Catherine’s accessibility and communication skills make working with her extremely easy and fun. We highly recommend her services to everyone who wants their design projects to be completed with passion and style and on time. Irina and James, Richmond Hill, Ontario

ROYAL I N TERIORS Elegant & Affordable designs that suit your lifestyle Contact Catherine-Lucie Horber TODAY ! 416-573-5378 * chorber@gmail.com * www.royalinteriordesign.ca FOR ADVERTISEMENTS CALL (416) 477-6107

September 2013 ALL ABOUT HOME

WHEN DOING BATHROOM RENOVATIONS… … follow these important rules.

Use Only High-Quality Fixtures and Workmanship

Trying to save money on plumbing is false economy. No matter how beautiful your renovated bathroom looks, it is not going to last if after a few months some hidden joint springs a leak because of bad workmanship. By the way, make sure that hidden joints are equipped with noise insulation.

Hide All the Pipes

All pipes and other technical fittings should be hidden either inside the walls or in plaster boxes. Leave apertures in walls to ensure access to major valves and units.

Mirrored Walls

Mirrors make a small bathroom look more spacious. Glue huge mirrors onto one or two walls, preferably from the floor or the counter all the way up to the ceiling. Make sure you use moisture proof mirrors or make them heated.

Niches and Built-In Shelves

For storage of bath products, make small niches or larger built-in shelves. They look much better that hanging plastic or metal shelves.

Avoid Monotonous Surfaces

To prevent bathroom walls and floor from looking dull, use different patterns when tiling. For example, insert diagonal or diamond patterns into a regular one. Spots for such inserts should be chosen based of the wall’s geometry. Another way to solve the problem of monotony is to buy top of the line tiles that can be interspersed with tiles of the same type, size, and colour, but decorated with images or moulding. If you wish to use your creativity instead of stereotypes for bathroom decor, try to come up with a unique design of your own.

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Kids’ Rooms

From Infants to Teens! Imagination: Descor membrane ceiling digitally printed with any high resolutionphoto or graphic in brilliant, non-fading full colour! We can print any high resolution image on non-toxic material that lasts a lifetime. We install, and we can integrate LED lighting in the installation! Although our material lasts a lifetime, you child’s tastes may not, so it’s fully recyclable and easy to remove and replace!

Nature Inspired Images: Photos of nature inspire calm contemplation and appreciation. Give your baby, child, or teen the coolest room on the block, plus inspiration to excel in pursuing his or her favorite interests!

20 Magnetic Dr., Unit # 2 Toronto, Ont. M3J 2C4 Canada Tel: 416-663-1708 Fax: 416-663-1707 Toll Free : 1-888-663-1708 Email: info@laqfoil.com

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September 2013 ALL ABOUT HOME

Peter Khatami

Peter is Senior Project Manager and Co-Owner of Nostco Construction, a Design/Build company serving residential and commercial clients throughout the GTA. Peter prides himself in working tirelessly on his clients’ behalf to bring vision to construction reality.

BASEMENT INCOME PROPERTY Finishing and renting out your basement can make quite a lot of dollars and sense!

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Nearly all homes in Canada have a basement. The average rental rate for a one or two bedroom finished basement apartment in the G.T.A. is from $800 to $1,300 a month. A basement apartment in one of the trendier parts of town with executive level finishes could rent for anywhere between $2,000 and $2,500 a month. If you are considering becoming a landlord, read on.

Check zoning regulations with the building department of your municipality. There may be zoning restrictions that do not allow for accessory dwelling units. A petition can be made for a minor variance. Once the zoning is cleared, proceed to the next step.

An accessory apartment can be a great source of monthly income for the average

Devise a plan to maximize the rental potential in terms of ROI, considering such factors as demographics of the

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homeowner, especially if you don’t currently use your basement for much and live in an area where population density and competition between apartment buildings tilt in your favour. If you are looking for a long term investment, I recommend the following steps:

1 2

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neighbourhood, comparative rental rates, etc.

Design the space. You will typically want to work with a professional designer, preferably one who can also produce the official set of construction drawings that the building department will require for approval.

4 5

Submit all applications to the building department. Once the permit is issued, construction can begin. Hire a contractor to handle the construction project. For a list of qualified contractors, please visit www.Renomark.ca. Once done “right the first time”, a legal basement apartment can become a great source of augmented income for some home owners. And that is a good thing!

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September 2013 ALL ABOUT HOME

Home Decor and Renovations Made Easy September 2013 Sees the Opening of a New Centre Vendors Get More Customers at a Lower Cost

Home renovations are often associated with a cumbersome task of traveling all over town in search of required materials and workmen. Good news – starting this fall, it will be sufficient to go to one place in order to view and probably purchase products and services for a renovation project of any scale. Home & Design Expo Center (HDEC) opening in September offers a full range of goods and services for all sorts of renovations, down to kitchens and bathrooms. Contractors, artists, designers, and other relevant specialists are represented in one convenient place. Besides, customers will be able to receive a consultation of an interior designer.

Everything in One Convenient Place Home & Design Expo Center (HDEC) is a new concept in the renovation and decor market. It offers the consumer a full range of services while providing suppliers, contractors, and tradesmen with an opportunity to present their products, skills, and experience. Seven days a week HDEC will grant both consumers and designers a chance to check out a wide range of products on display with the help of unique barcodes and QR codes to access every participating company’s website. The customer who wants a specific product or service will use a handheld scanner to contact the help desk and receive the response from the company of their choice.

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With this model, companies have no need to run a physical office because their potential customers have a chance to see a full range of their products on the spot. “The monthly rent of an office space starts at $450,” says David Burstein, CEO HDEC. “Our suppliers can avoid additional overhead associated with rent and office personnel. We provide free Wi-Fi and a boardroom at no extra cost.” HDEC, aimed at companies who wish to offer their products and services under one roof, makes available a wide variety of marketing and expertise programs not available to most companies on their own. Unit sizes vary between 40 and 150 square feet, and a company can rent several units if needed.

Multimedia Advertising to Attract Customers Suppliers participate in a $300,000 advertising pool designed by HDEC , with a monthly contribution from $200 to $400. Their investment brings a healthy return in the form of TV, radio, and printed advertising of the Centre. Such advertisements run throughout the year and focus on the target customer. The contact information of the customers who have visited the showroom during the day is emailed to the suppliers overnight. Aside from exhibition halls, the complex includes a reception office, boardrooms, and other common-use areas. The conference hall is equipped with a 55” TV screen for presentations. In the case of a supplier

running late, the HDEC personnel will take care of his client. The Centre is scheduled to open for business in September 2013. For the consumer, it will become a repository of design and renovation ideas. Companies wishing to increase their business should ACT QUICKLY! Units at HDEC go fast! Reserve your spot today! Located at 155 Consumers Rd., in close proximity to Hwys 401 и 404, Home & Design Expo Center (HDEC) offers over 13,000 sq. ft. to accommodate 110 to 125 display units. For further information call

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A Breeze from the Orient Organza has played the key role in the design of window dressing for many years. This fabric is capable of totally changing the look of your window as well as of the room at large. Curtains made of this light and sheer fabric easily match any textures and can be used in any decorative style.

Incidentally, window dressing is not the only area of design where organza can be used. It can help radically change the appearance of any room element â&#x20AC;&#x201C; for example, in a new slipcover for the sofa or a light curtain over the doorway connecting two rooms. Organza is also great for bed canopies or even tents for kids.

Organza is a thin and rather stiff fabric made of silk, polyester, or viscose in a plain weave. It comes in a shiny or matte variety as well as a solid or patterned one. There are various ways of applying patterns to the fabric; it can be embroidered, printed, or etched. Organza curtains with printed butterflies look striking because on a sunny day they create an illusion of live butterflies fluttering their brightly-coloured wings right inside the room. Organza curtains with printed aircraft are great for a boyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nursery. Perforating and laser cutting on organza also create striking effects: for example, organza sheers decorated by horizontal stitching that divides the cloth into separate but matching tones. Of course, the greatest advantage of organza is its charming semitransparency and weightlessness. Such sheers are especially good in smaller rooms because they do not hide the window and do not obstruct the outside light thus visually enhancing the dimensions of the room. Some types of organza come in a colour-changing variety. It shines and shimmers, changing its tone in the light coming from different angles. These look especially spectacular in a design with multiple folds, especially at night in the artificial lighting when they show a play of multiple colours. Organza sheers are appropriate for any room regardless of its function. Brighter fabrics look better in a living room while, for the bedroom, warm pearly tones are more suitable. Cool and light hues can be used for window dressing in the bedroom as well, to create an atmosphere of peaceful solitude.

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September 2013 ALL ABOUT HOME

Be Different! Some people approach the matter of interior design from the purely practical angle, concentrating on comfort and functionality. Nevertheless, most interiors are created by those who strive to surprise, trick their friends, or express their inner self – in all cases, applying imagination to the problem. Here are a few ideas to help you create something striking for your decor.

Use Elements Foreign to Your Decor Surprise your guests with something unexpected in a regular city dwelling. For example, lay out a pile of firewood by the wall under your book shelves. This will create unique, natural, and even aromatic ornamental touch.

False Doors Your visitors do not need to know that sometimes a door appears in the wall for a simple purpose of concealing unattractive sections of it. But how much fun you will have just watching their futile attempts to get into that secret room behind the door!

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Information Stand To keep your guests occupied, make one of the walls into an information stand by affixing to it photographs, drawings, and souvenirs. This looks interesting and attractive.

Upside Down Tell your friends that your home’s mystic energy is so strong that even the law of gravitation acts differently within your walls. As an illustration, turn a few cups upside down and glue them to a shelf as lamp shades. It is fun!

A Small Café de Paris Create a cozy atmosphere of a Parisian cafe right in your home. Use a large illuminated marquee, tables, pictures on the wall, and chalk-written menu – all these details are important for a completed image. Nevertheless stop short of hiring waiters.

A “Stone” Room Throw onto different spots on the floor a few cushions imitating stones and boulders. Such decor that makes the room look like just a stone depository is in reality a very comfortable relaxation place. Your guests will be surprised and happy.

Just for the Heck of It! There are a few mirrors in the rooms of a regu-

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lar home to function as a customary looking glass. Buy a few dozen mirrors of different shapes and sizes and hang them all over your walls at various levels. Be mysterious and do not explain when asked questions.

Curves Instead of Straight Lines Who says that shelves are supposed to be straight-lined? Come up with a drawing of curved shelves and build them. Try to avoid repetition – every shelf should be curved in its own unique way.

Mind Games Decorate your dwelling with mysterious and meaningful art puzzles to add weight to your personality in the eyes of your friends. They will be sure that you have already solved them! Keep surprising your guests, and you will acquire a reputation of an outside-the-box thinking person.

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September 2013 ALL ABOUT HOME

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September 2013 ALL ABOUT HOME

? e l y t S y M s I t a ... Wh

d. The trendiest restaurant downtown?

Whether you are designing a new space or renovating an existing one, it will clearly reflect who you are and what makes it a comfortable and inviting place for you to live in. There is an overwhelming selection of finishes, colours, textures, lighting, and architectural features. Décor magazines catering to every taste and specific niche on the market, “make love” to us from newsstands everywhere we go. The incredible amount of home renovation and DIY TV shows vie for our attention and make us believe that to renovate a home for a family of four (including the pet) is totally possible in half an hour; they even show us the pictures of “before and after”... a few times. But, all kidding aside, it is great that these shows do exist!

a. Touring great gardens in England? b. New York City? c. Malaysia? d. Staying at the George V in Paris? e. Hiking, fishing or boating in Cape Cod?

5. Would you feel comfortable in the room with the walls are covered with: a. Wood panels? b. Mirrors?

2. Which of the following artists’ work would you buy:

c. Varnished or lacquered?

a. Auguste Renoir?

e. Floral print?

b. Roy Lichtenstein? c. Paul Gauguin? d. Richard Avedon? e. Or do you prefer Folk Art? 3. What movie set you would like to live on: a. Downton Abbey? b. Mad Men? c. The Last Emperor?

So...What is My Style? Is it to be Traditional or Contemporary? Cottage and Country? Chic? Ethnic?

d. Sex and the City, the Movie?

Let’s go through some questions to identify your preferences and to help you make your real place look just like your dream home.

4. If you were to host a dinner, what would it be:

1. Where would be your ideal vacation destination:

c. Summer breeze drinks with banana leaf platters?

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e. A backyard barbeque?

e. Something’s Gotta Give?

a. A black-tie affair? b. Take-out from a local restaurant?

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d. Painted white or shades of grey?

6. If you were to renovate or buy a new kitchen and appliances what would they be: a. Custom furniture cabinets complete with a butler’s pantry? b. Designed by using the principles of Feng Shui? c. Folding doors with lettuce or bamboo wood design patterns? d. Stainless steel-finish appliances and polished marble countertop that is a part of your living/dining room? e. Painted cabinets with dark metal finish hardware, tiled countertop, maybe even complete with an antique looking stove or fridge? 7. Visiting casually a flea market or an antiques store, what would catch your eye:

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! e l y t S r u o y s i t a h W . . . o S a. 18th or19th century paintings with heavy elaborate frames?

a. TRADITIONAL: Your style is classic!

b. Furniture or items from the 1950s -1970s?

You are definitely inspired by historic homes in England or Niagara-on the-Lake.

c. Oriental design screens or knick-knacks?

Rich woods like mahogany and cherry are dominant in traditional style interiors.

d. Anything in the French Provincial or Italian design style?

Chairs, ottomans, upholstered benches have mix of straight and curved lines with a tailored look of upholstery. Neutral colours such as beige, gray and warm shades of white mix very well with deep reds, blues and greens. Fabrics with floral and toile patterns or tone-on-tone prints are very popular in this style. Window treatments and decorative pieces are made usually out of luxurious fabrics with floral, stripes or plaid patterns. Hardwood floors are covered with large Persian or Oriental carpets. Adding crown moulding on your ceiling would definitely emphasize the style. To complete the look, you can visit flea markets or antiques stores to pick up a few gilded picture frames, porcelain pieces or silk lampshades with a few magic dangling crystals.

e. Flowers or botanical prints in a scuffed wooden frame? 8. What would you like to put on display to be admired by you or your guests: a. Martha Stewart style porcelain? b. Contemporary sculpture or painting? c. Flowers and candles floating in a glass bowl? d. Family photos mixed in with glass, crystal or silver decorative pieces? e. Seashells or rock collection? 9. What textures or patterns would you be drawn to: a. Toile? b. Leather? c. Silk? d. Damask and chenille? e. Denim? 10. If you have to re-upholster your favourite armchair or couch, what fabric would you choose: a. Linens, hand-made fabrics and silks?

b. CONTEMPORARY: You are all about 20th century minimalism! Clean, straight lines, open and uncluttered spaces, sleek and polished look of the surfaces - these are just a few characteristics of contemporary elegance.

b. Solid colours? c. Floral prints? d. Vibrant patterns of the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;70s? e. Plaids and stripes? 11. What colours make you feel comfortable: a. Subdued, muted colours, such as found in historical homes? b. Bold colours and modern art? c. Traditional colours from Asia and India? d. Slick Hollywood movie look from the 1950s? e. Nature

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September 2013 ALL ABOUT HOME

Furnishings and designs by Charles Eames and Mies van der Rohe are classical examples of the contemporary style. Lofts, former factories and commercial buildings with vast views and open spaces embrace this style of glass, metal and stainless steel finishes in combination with natural wood and manmade materials. Colours such as whites, blacks and neutrals are usually the background for the furnishings, decorative pieces and artwork. Natural fabrics such as cotton, wool, silk, and linen are commonly used for upholstery or window treatments. A low-pile carpet would go very well with the hardwood or other sleek-surface flooring. In order to achieve this style, try to experiment by mixing natural textures with clean lines of furniture and vibrant-color accessories.

base, silk lampshades, bright bold colour accessories, silver rim and crystal decorative pieces, pottery, glassware, faux fur and mirrors, peonies and roses. Be daring and, most importantly, have fun!

c. ETHNIC: You love to travel the world! Asian (Japanese and Chinese) or African style furnishings are made of a variety of woods: teak, cedar, rosewood, bamboo, rattan, wicker, and dark-stained hardwoods. Lacquer or varnish finished woods with intricate inlays are very common with Chinese style furnishings. Yellows, reds, oranges and other earthy hues, as well as neutrals are common colours in ethnic style. Geometric shapes, animal prints and florals are very popular motifs on cotton, wool, hemp, silk or any other natural fabric.

Bamboo window treatments or silk panels make ethnic interiors more authentic looking. Japanese Shoji screens made out of rice paper are very beautiful and functional. They could be used for sliding doors or room dividers. Natural-fiber rugs such as sea grass sisal and bamboo would look very nice on stone or terracotta tile flooring. Painted pottery, animal sculptures, masks, handmade textiles, rice paper lanterns and leather accessories would make your space even more unique and relaxed.

e. COUNTRY AND and country charm!

COTTAGE: You love comfort, nature

We think of a cottage as a romantic and cozy place, with nostalgic antiques, floral fabrics and warmth of the fireplace. It’s all about comfort and relaxed environment. Wicker, rustic oak, pine and painted furnishings are typical of the cottage and country style. You can try mixing these furnishings with similarly designed furnishings from the traditional style. Colours based on nature’s palette, pastels, reds, whites and blues are very popular for cottage and country interiors. Fabrics and natural materials such as cotton, linen and handmade fabrics fit the overall decorating scheme. Vintage fabrics and lace are charming for window treatments, but you can also use shutters and curtains to create a more sophisticated look. Florals, gingham and plaids are very common patterns for this style. Hardwood floors, woven and area rugs, real or faux fur will bring warmth and color to the floors. Stained glass lamp shades, hanging light fixtures usually made of wrought iron or antiqued metals beautifully compliment the space. Distressed wood, chunky or elegant pewter finish hardware, crackle or colour washing paint finishes, fresh flowers and baskets, pottery and birdhouses, vintage quilts and botanical prints are decorative accessories that enhance these styles and make your space an oasis from your daily hectic life, less stressful and very welcoming. Marina Orlova

d. CHIC: Putting on the Ritz! You are all about fashion and glamour! You would love to decorate your place with luxurious fabrics and fur throws. Select furnishings with mirrors, glass and metal; refined and softly sculpted lines. If you blend neutral colours – white, cream and brown - with such strong, bold colors as yellow, red and purple, it would make your home look incredibly chic and glamorous. Fabrics like chenille, silk, velvet and satin would help you enjoy your own Hollywood “splendour.” Light colour carpeting and simple window panels that puddle on the floor are a great look for your chic style. Should you opt for a crystal chandelier? Absolutely! Table lamps with a glass or metal

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September 2013 ALL ABOUT HOME

The Facts

of Mould What we know about mould is that it is a symptom of dampness, that it does not look pretty, and of course, that you better not have it around. What you know very little about though is that mould is bad for your health. Where It Comes From 70 to 80% is a comfortable level of humidity for the human body. Your home may have a heightened humidity level in a few cases: • If you have house pets and/or houseplants; • If you have small children and do laundry often; • If you keep the interior of your house cool in a period of high humidity outside;

The danger comes not from the mould itself but rather from the millions of spores discharged by a mould growth into its environment because we breathe it. Spores that get into our respiratory and circulatory systems may cause a whole slew of disease. Besides, during its reproduction process mould emits volatile organic compounds causing specific smells and very harmful for our health.

Diseases and Disorders

• If you don’t air your home on a regular basis, etc.

• Various difficult to diagnose and treat allergic reactions of the skin (dermatoses and mycosis) and respiratory tract (rhinitis, coughs, and even bronchial asthma);

Humidity tends to condense in such places as behind-the-closet and behind-the-wall

• Locomotive system and rheumatic joint disorders;

• If different rooms of your home are not heated uniformly;

spaces, underneath windowsills, and on bathrooms walls and ceilings. These condensation spots are the source of the future mould, and when it starts it will grow rapidly. There are about 100,000 known species of the mould fungi, but it is suspected that the existing species reach the quarter-million mark. It is a common knowledge that mould is dangerous for structural components but it is even more dangerous for human health.

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• Headaches, nausea, dizziness, chills, and even emaciation of an undefined origin. Children, elderly, and people with low immunity are at an increased risk of such disorders.

Fighting Mould • Small dark spots on walls and ceiling can be treated with peroxide or kitchen vinegar as a first aid step; • Figure out the source of mould in any given place and consider measures to reduce humidity; • Treat infected places with special solutions, as deeply as needed, down to the concrete or brick surface; • Open your windows and air your home often; • Try to keep the bathroom door open; • If you find mould in your basement, undertake a full complex of works for draining and insulating the foundation against ground waters and melted snow.

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August 2013

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Free estimates Shingles Flat roofs Skylights Aluminum & Siding Soffit Eavestroughs Cedar Wood Copper

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There are a few secrets to saving money that may come in handy to anyone whose family budget needs to be balanced.

P Do not keep cash at home. Economists have proved many times over that, no matter at what level of material wellbeing a person is they can always have a nest egg. Their studies have even established the approximate amount , which is about 20% of income. This money though should not be kept at home in order to avoid the temptation to draw from it when wanted or needed for something out of the planned expenditures. P Try not to compare yourself with friends and relatives who are more affluent than you are; rather look at those who are worse off than yourself.

Taking Care of Budget

P Objectively analyze your expenditures over a few months. You will definitely find expenses that not only hurt your family budget but your health as well – for example, smoking.

P Planned large purchases do less harm to the family budget than small unplanned ones. Just sum up the price of chewing gum, a paperback bought at a stand to read on the subway, and a candy bar to calm hunger pangs until you get home – these are just a few examples of the rubbish that tends to collect at the bottom of your bag by the end of the week.

P If you resist the temptation to go shopping on a Saturday you will not spend your money unwisely. If you still want to do your shopping on a Saturday, make a list of thing that are really needed and carry just enough cash to pay for what’s on that list, leaving your credit and debit cards at home.

Economizing may take care of your weight and your health. You can cook many delicious and healthy dishes using inexpensive vegetables. It will do a lot of good to both your family and you.

P Pass up lotteries, casinos, and other getrich-quick schemes. Count only on your efforts and don’t risk your hard-earned money on unsubstantiated dreams.

P Forget the buggy, pick up a shopping basket provided by the store. The weight you have to carry in your hand will limit the amount of your purchases.

P A little secret: the more expensive the item is the closer to the eye level the store will place it. Take the trouble to bend down to lower shelves to find less expensive items of the same kind.

Try to avoid buying readymade and “ready to cook” foods. Not only they cost more but you will also have to pay HST on them. An extra half hour it will take you to cook dinner from scratch will save a considerable amount of money in your family monthly budget at the end. Besides, what you cook with your own hands is much more delicious than foods store or factory prepared in large batches.

P Watch for sales and discounts but even then try not to buy more than you need for the nearest future. Do not buy items you don’t need only because they have been discounted – this is false economy.

P Never do grocery shopping on an emp- P Don’t worry about “what people will say.” ty stomach. This will help you avoid at least one third of unnecessary purchases.

Do not be ashamed to buy less expensive items and groceries. To avoid mental pres-

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sure do not go shopping with friends. There is no shame in living within your means while spending extra money to “look no worse than the others” is, at the very least, not wise. Besides, no matter how much you spend on this or that item, there is always someone who is capable of doing better.

P Establish a deadline for keeping to strict rules – let’s say six months. This will give you strength to refrain from unnecessary expenses while waiting for the end of this severe “sentence” and – the same way as dieting – it will be a challenge.

Even if you have purchased nothing during the day, make it a habit to write down all your daily expenses. It will help you see whether you are staying within the limits or whether you spent money for an unplanned purchase. People who tried this regimen say that it was hard at the beginning but the desire to test these suggestions as well as their willpower helped them to get through it, and the result was better than expected. There was enough money left in the family budget to spend it on some pleasurable trinkets that they had not been able to afford before. Good luck to you!

September 2013 ALL ABOUT HOME

This September...

FALL INTO A NEW YOU! with a Relaxation Massage or Classic Facial

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