Bay Living Magazine August/September 2015

BayLiving Staff PUBLISHER WALLY HICKS III BAY AREA DIRECTOR DEBBIE TARNOFF MARKETING SPECIALISTS JENNIFER BURKE, PHILLIP ALVIDREZ PRODUCTION MANAGERS DAWN DOWLATSHAHI, DAVID MARCHAND WRITER/COPY EDITOR CAITLIN FEENER PUBLISHER’S REPRESENTATIVES MARKET LINK ADMINISTRATIVE COORDINATOR SARAH CARLISLE ADVERTISING MAILING ADDRESS Affluent Target Marketing, Inc. P.O. Box 18507 Anaheim Hills, California 92817-8507 (714) 446-6280 (888) 612-7400 www.baylivingmagazine.com For comments to the publisher: wally@keyaccess.com

Reach the Most Affluent Owner–Occupied S i n g l e – Fa m i ly H o m e s and the top t r a d e p ro f e s s i o n a l s i n S i l i c o n Va l l ey, t h e Pe n i n s u l a a n d San Francisco C a l l To d a y f o r M o re Information

D e b b i e Ta r n o f f Bay Area Director

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The opinions expressed in the editorials are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of Bay Living. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, we cannot supervise the way in which information found in Bay Living is used. Bay Living is produced bimonthly by Affluent Target Marketing, Inc., P.O. Box 18507, Anaheim Hills, California 92817-8507. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. All submitted materials, including images, logos, and text, for advertisements and editorials are assumed to be the property of the provider, and Affluent Living Publications can take no responsibility for unintentional copyright infringement. Affluent Target Marketing, Inc. has the right to refuse advertising. CIRCULATION VERIFIED BY U.S. POSTAL RECEIPTS.

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BAY LIVING Contents

A ResOuRCe guIde seRvIng sILICOn vALLey, THe PenInsuLA & sAn fRAnCIsCO • vOL XXXvI • nO. 4 • Odd AugusT/sePTeMBeR 2015 D I S C O V E R A D D I T I O N A L I N F O R M AT I O N AT T H E N E W B AY L I V I N G M A G A Z I N E . C O M

16 - 27 Home Fashion More Than Just A Sofa Bed–The Comfort Sleeper™ Is A Marvel Of Modern Engineering Area Rugs To Enhance Your Décor Lighting 101™ With Hinkley Lighting Decorating Taste Test. Determine Your Style With A Few Quick Questions Modern Furniture That Speaks To Your Style Define And Enhance Your Home With Customized Window Treatments Create A Bold First Impression Sophisticated Hardwood–Natural Flooring With Character Simplify Your Life By Organizing Your Home Your Guide To Finding The Ideal Furniture

Looking For Design Inspiration? Natural Stone–Imagine The Possibilities A Glance Inside A Home Remodel

43 - 49 Products & Services Don’t Be Left In The Dark When The Power Goes Out When It Comes To Your Cooling And Heating System Should You Repair Or Replace?

Do You Want Your Woodwork To Look Beautiful Again?

Save Energy, Space, And Water–Improve Your Life By Going Tankless Add An Attractive Visual Touch With Custom Iron Doors Professional Barbeque Cleaning Open Up Your View With Retractable Screen Doors

28 Home Automation & Theater Make The Right Connections–Home Automation Makes Your Home Intelligent And Elegant

50 - 62 Exteriors & Landscaping

Get Perfectly Clean–Electrolux Front Load Laundry Keeping It Cool–Is Your Wine Being Stored Properly?

What Is The Most Used Appliance In The Kitchen? Introducing The ROHL® Water Appliance™ Solution Custom Built Steam Glass Shower Enclosures–Soothe Your Body And Soul Vessel Hammock Bathtub Takes Stylish Relaxation To A New Level

Exceed All Expectations With A Properly Installed Synthetic Lawn Protecting And Shading Your Home Can Make A Measurable Difference Now Is The Time To Beautify Your Home Your Own Unique Piece Of Living Art: Sculpted Olive Trees Your Garage, Your Oasis–Start Enjoying It Today Outdoor Space Too Hot To Handle?

Adding Curb Appeal To Your Home Evict Termites Without Leaving Your Home

38 - 42 Remodeling

64 - 65 Health Beauty and Fitness

30 - 37 Kitchen & Bath

Ensure An Enjoyable Remodeling Experience With The Design/Build Process Reshape Your Body In 20 Minutes!

Lighting plays a vital role in how you live in and enjoy every aspect of your home. For the past 90 years, Hinkley Lighting has been creating lighting for the modern family. Hinkley understands that your home is so much more than a physical place—it’s an emotional space designed by you.

For more information about Hinkley products and much more, Coast Lighting is your local one-stop shop with the largest lighting products display in the Bay Area. For more information, you can visit them at 2626 El Camino Real in Redwood City, call them at 650-850-6220, or visit www.coastlighting.com. See their ad on page 3 and article on page 19.

homefashion

More Than JusT a sofa Bed— The Comfort sleeper™ Is a Marvel of Modern engineering

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sofa Closed

sofa open

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hen you think about a sofa bed, you most likely conjure up an image of an average looking fold out couch that doesn’t offer much in the comfort department. Yet, when the time comes for friends and family to stay over, there is nothing better than having that convenient sleeper in the house—even if it’s tucked away in your home office.

Now, you can say goodbye to that lackluster image of a traditional sofa bed forever, and meet the ultimate innovation that is literally redefining every notion you ever had about a traditional sleeper.

American Leather’s Comfort Sleeper™ takes things to an entirely new level of luxury. When your guests come over, you won’t just be offering them a space to sleep— you will be providing them with first-rate bed accommodations, in an instant.

With The Comfort Sleeper, American Leather has managed to capture the consumers’ imagination, not only in quality, but also size and design.

Quality. Made in the U.S.A., each Comfort Sleeper is crafted from the highest quality materials and fully customizable. Available with three different mattress options, you can choose from a worldrenowned Tempur-Pedic®, a luxuriously soft gel mattress, or a slightly firmer Premier mattress. The Comfort Sleeper is also protected by a cloth under-shield. When guests arrive, your Comfort Sleeper mattress will fold out without any dust bunnies clinging to the mechanism. There are no bars, no springs, and no sagging—they will never experience a cleaner sleep.

Size. More sleep space requires less floor space. All Comfort Sleeper mattresses offer a full 80-inches of sleeping surface, yet they take up less total floor area than conventional sleepers (whose mattresses tend to only be 70–75-inches in length). This is because the patented Comfort Sleeper system extends from within the back of the sofa. Also, staying true to size, when you purchase a queen Comfort Sleeper, you actually receive a 60 x 80 queen size. Many sleepers include a mattress that measures 54 x 72, and claim it’s queen-sized.

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homefashion When the bed is extended, the overall projection into the room is only 85-inches. This is a small footprint relative to other sleepers, which tend to project over 90-inches, along with a smaller overall sleeping surface.

Design. Small spaces and narrow hallways are not a problem with The Comfort Sleeper. They have been crafted to fit the smallest condo to the most spacious home. Experienced delivery crews can easily disassemble your sleeper to get it through tight entries. Perfect for converting any room into a guest room, queen-sized Comfort Sleepers come as small as 69-inches wide. The unique design also fits through narrow doorways.

You can choose from leather or many performance fabrics for your unique Comfort Sleeper—you’ll never have to compromise on style with a variety of coverings to choose from. The versatility of The Comfort Sleeper allows it to become a staple in your home décor. Instead of hiding the sleeper away in a small room that rarely gets any use, you will want to have it in the living room. Configured into sectionals or paired with matching stationary furniture (non-sleepers), such as love seats or chairs, the function of the Comfort Sleeper is perfect for any space. Your whole family will get cozy on the sectional during movie night.

Choose from leather or fabric options. Premium top-grain leathers are among the finest available and are full aniline-dyed for beauty and softness.

Stain-resistant and easyto-clean leathers are also available. Fabrics include ultra-double microfibers, velvets, bouclés, on-trend prints, and Crypton®.

If you need The Comfort Sleeper in a pinch, the lead times for custom ordered American Leather furniture are about half the industry average. You can ensure that your new piece will arrive in time for the guests. And if you need it even sooner, rush capacity is available. American Leather builds furniture that provides years of trouble-free service. If something goes wrong, your Comfort Sleeper mechanism is warranted against defects in materials and workmanship for three years.

Whether you are looking for The Comfort Sleeper, furniture to fill an entire room, or just a few accent pieces, Giorgi Bros. Furniture Showroom can help. Their non-commission design consultants are committed to helping you find just the right furniture, and their staff can guide you through their huge 50,000-square-foot showroom and factory catalogs. Not only is furniture available off the showroom floor for immediate pick-up and most often next-day delivery, if you can’t find what you’re looking for in the showroom, Giorgi Bros. can help you find exactly what you need. They also offer delivery, which consists of unpacking, assembling, and placing the furniture in your home. For the last 83 years, this third-generation family-owned and –operated business has been focusing on their clients needs to deliver the best service. Offering free and convenient parking, you can visit their showroom at 211 Baden Avenue in South San Francisco. You can also call them at 650-588-4621 or visit their website at www.giorgibros.com ONLINE AT BAYLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2015 • BAY LIVING

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homefashion

A R

rea ugs to Enhance Your Décor

A

dding a touch of class, area rugs can define the entire atmosphere of a home. They also serve a utilitarian purpose because area rugs protect your floors from general wear and tear. Elegant, handmade area rugs play a major role in transforming the overall ambiance and comfort of a room.

However, many homeowners may find it challenging to find those ideal rugs. There are so many questions to consider—is the rug meant to make a statement, or are you looking for something subtle? Are you partial to modern or traditional styles? Some common rug styles include medallion, allover, floral, tribal, contemporary and pictorial. Area rugs have seemingly limitless options for colors and patterns, including bright or vibrant colors, contrasting combinations, and sharply angled designs.

When purchasing a rug, you can look for a company that can help reduce those moments of indecision.

There is no better way to get a feel for the look you want to achieve than by actually testing out the rug in your home. Look for a company that offers a 30-day trial run with your new area rug, and you won’t have to worry about whether or not it will be a right fit. If you decide against the rug, you can return it without any hassle or obligation. Additionally,

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when a company offers to bring a variety of different rugs to your home, you have the ability to see what would fit in your décor before you buy anything.

Before your rug shopping experience, there are a few things that you can start considering. First, take inventory of the existing color scheme in the room. Pay particular attention to the color of the flooring and the furnishings. Think about whether a room is going to be formal or informal. The rug you choose can, and will, help define this space. Also, consider which rug shape is best for you. While most rugs cover almost 30% of a room's flooring, there are smaller and larger sizes available.

Established almost 35 years ago by Amir Amidi, Medallion Rug Gallery is a company that offers all of these services, as well as an extensive selection of area rugs ranging from imported antique rugs to traditional Persian rugs. With Medallion Rug Gallery, you gain access to an experienced team and extensive network of exquisite rug makers. Offering no-obligation in-home trials, you can “try before you buy” to ensure that your rug is exactly what you were looking for. They also offer a trade-in/trade-up program, as well as a lifetime full exchange guarantee. For more details, you can call them at 888-741-0916 or visit www.medallionrug.com. You can also visit their beautiful showroom at 353 University Ave. in Palo Alto.

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homefashion

LIghTIng 101 with ™

or the past 90 years, Hinkley Lighting has been creating lighting for the modern family that reflects evolving lifestyles, and brightens the simple pleasures of day-to-day moments. Hinkley understands the importance of lighting and its vital role in how you live in and enjoy every aspect of your home.

To enhance your home with lighting, follow these simple tips from Hinkley about sizing and hanging a home full of lighting fixtures: Outdoor lanterns. If you are hanging one lantern, it should measure about one-third the height of your door, and if you are hanging two, they should measure about one-quarter the height of the door. The center of the light source should rest approximately 66-inches above the threshold.

Foyer or entry. When hanging a fixture in the foyer, the bottom of the fixture should be at least seven-feet from the floor. If there is a window above the door in a two-story foyer, center the fixture so it can be seen from the outside. Sconces can be installed 60-inches from the floor and about six-to-eight-feet apart.

Bath and vanity. Fixtures above the vanity should be at least 24-inches-wide, and the center should be mounted 75-to-80-inches

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from the floor. Mini chandeliers add sparkle to a nook or high powder room ceilings. Sconces flanking the vanity allow light to be evenly distributed across your face and should be mounted at eye level, about 36-to-40-inches apart.

Dining chandelier. To size a fixture over a dining table, measure the length and width of the room or dining space, and add those figures together. The sum converted to inches will equal the right sized chandelier. The bottom of the chandelier should also sit approximately 32-to-34-inches above the tabletop.

Island pendants. A group of pendants is an ideal lighting solution for islands and breakfast bars, with smaller fixtures generally hung in odd numbered groups, and larger pendants in pairs.

In general, pendants should be hung with the bottom of the fixture 28-to-34-inches about the tabletop.

Landscape lighting. Path and area lighting should be installed to enhance landscaping and to safely illuminate pathways. About six-feet between each light is a general guideline to follow. Uplighting creates soft focal points. Use a flashlight to test where you’d like the light to hit, then mount the fixtures accordingly.

Bedroom basics. Overhead lighting such as central flush, semi-flush mount, or chandelier

will allow for the general illumination of the room. Ambient lighting such as bedside sconces make for easy reading, but also bounce light off the walls.

Mudroom. Eight-foot or below ceilings are best fitted with a flush mount fixture, while nine-or-ten-foot ceilings are perfect for a semi-flush mount, which typically hangs less than 12-inches from the ceiling.

Laundry room. Overhead lighting provides the main lighting, while sconces on either side of a laundry tub or folding area act as decorative task lighting.

For more information about Hinkley products and much more, Coast Lighting is your local one-stop shop with the largest lighting products display in the Bay Area. They also offer on-site consultations, custom fixture design and fabrication, lamp repair, and installation services. They are able to help homeowners, contractors, and designers, alike understand the technical requirements for their projects. Their staff is extremely knowledgeable about the industry’s products and applications and will help you select the most appropriate of many solutions. For more information, you can visit them at 2626 El Camino Real in Redwood City, call them at 650-850-6220, or visit www.coastlighting.com.

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2015 • BAY LIVING

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homefashion

Decorating Taste Test Determine Your Style with A Few Quick Questions

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oes your home reflect you? Many of us are at a loss when it comes to decorating our home and deciding which colors, fabrics and furniture to use.

To help solve this problem, Sally Morse, Director of Creative Services for Hunter Douglas, devised a “Decorating Taste Test” inspired by Meredith’s New Decorating Book. So pick up a pencil, sit yourself down, and answer the following questions: 1. What architectural style is your dream house? a. A restored townhouse with beautiful architectural detailing. b. A thatched roof cottage surrounded by trees and flowers fronting a sylvan pond. c. A penthouse loft with few interior walls, high ceilings and lots of windows.

2. Great grandma bequeathed you an old-fashioned trestle table, the perfect size for dining. What do you choose for seating? a. Chairs from the same era, made of the same wood. b. Dissimilar wood chairs painted a single color. c. Mid-century modern Harry Bertoia metal chairs.

3. The colors you love to surround yourself with bring to mind: a. Favorite jewelry. b. Your flower garden. c. The beach.

4. When hosting a dinner party you set the table with: a. Formal china that’s been in your family for generations, the good silver and white tapers.

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b. Pottery collected over the years and glass hurricane lamps with pillar candles matching the colorful linens. c. Translucent, white china plates, small, rock crystal vases, each sprouting a single purple zinnia marching down the center of the table, and vintage, pearl-handled flatware.

Traditional. If you answered mostly “a,” you have a great appreciation for the past, formality, and prefer one definite style over many. At the windows you might keep the treatment simple to draw attention to the furniture with Hunter Douglas Silhouette® shadings with the Signature S-Vane™.

Comfortably casual. If you answered mostly “b,” you like furnishings that beckon, sink-into chairs and sofas dressed in solid or boldly patterned fabrics that don’t show wear and tear. Interiors in the comfortably casual mode would look well with Heritance® hardwood shutters crafted with dovetail construction for maximum strength and durability.

Simple with a spark. If you answered mostly “c,” you like a sophisticated, refined look sparked with something unexpected, a Victorian papier-mâché chair in a modern setting, for example. One recommended window treatment is the state-of-the-art, Duette ® Architella® honeycomb shades from Hunter Douglas with a highly energy efficient cell-within-a-cell construction.

One-of-a-kind. If your answers vary, it probably means you like and are knowledgeable about a variety of design periods and styles and refuse to be limited to just one.

To see a variety of different Hunter Douglas products, you can visit Rebarts Interiors, an authorized Hunter Douglas Window Fashions Gallery with showrooms located at 1352 Broadway in Burlingame and 990 Industrial Road Ste. 106 in San Carlos, 650-348-1268 or 650-508-8518. www.rebarts.com. Or you can also visit PKS Interiors, an authorized Hunter Douglas Showcase Dealer located at 101 E. El Camino Real in Sunnyvale, 408-738-9183. www.pksinteriors.net.

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homefashion

Modern Furniture F THAT SPEAKS TO YOUR STYLE urnishing a home is a wonderful opportunity to express your individual style and create a personal environment to relax, nurture family, and entertain friends. Unfortunately, the task of finding the right furniture can seem like an uphill battle for the discerning homeowner.

Having served the Bay Area for over 10 years, Gingko Home Furnishings understands the difficulties that homeowners encounter while furniture shopping. Over the years, they have garnered a keen understanding of their clientele and have carefully curated a collection of pieces that easily meet the homeowner’s needs in terms of style, quality, and budget.

Gingko designs their own line of solid walnut and upholstered furniture with the sophisticated style and practical needs of the Bay Area homeowner. These designs are expertly crafted at Gingko’s owned and operated woodworking studio. Producing pieces individually allows for customization to meet client’s specific needs— no two homes are alike and often the right piece needs to be slightly resized or reimagined to fit just perfectly.

Iconic mid-century modern design styling is featured throughout Gingko’s collection. Designs

are produced in rich solid walnut wood, which is available in multiple finish colors. The beautiful organic grain of the walnut wood becomes part of the furniture’s lasting beauty. Furthermore, walnut is valued by furniture designers for its stability, with minimal movement across different environments. The material is not highly processed—no veneers or plywood are used—resulting in an unmatched look with inherent beauty that increases over time.

Recently, Gingko has expanded their in-house and manufacturing capabilities to include a line of upholstered chairs for the living and dining room, comprised of five lounge chairs and two dining chairs. Inspired by mid-century designs the furniture adopts clean lines into comfortable updated styles, ideal for today's modern home.

Headquartered in Mountain View, Gingko’s management is inspired by the lore of the Gingko tree which has been known to live as long as 3,000 years. Once common in Northern Europe, it had vanished from that area by the 16th century, only to be rediscovered in China and eventually brought back to the west. Today the tree is widely used throughout the Bay Area and it embodies the spirit of Gingko Home Furnishings’ unique, lasting style.

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Designed in California and hand-built by skilled carpenters, Gingko has helped thousands of clients with projects ranging from whole house remodels to retirement downsizing, to furnishing a newly purchased condo and even quick room.

For quick solutions, Gingko has a local warehouse with a broad selection of styles ready for delivery within days of ordering. Marketed exclusively in their San Francisco and Mountain View retail showrooms, Gingko is a unique source for homeowners looking to express their individual style without compromising quality, flexibility, or value.

You can visit one of their two Bay Area showrooms today. Gingko San Francisco is at 810 Valencia Street, 415-814-3918, and their Mountain View location is at 2496 W. El Camino Real, 650-396-7455. www.GingkoFurniture.com.

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AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2015 • BAY LIVING

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homefashion

Define and Enhance Your Home With Customized Window Treatments

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indow coverings may only be one part of a room’s décor, but the part they play is a major one. Your windows are a decorating opportunity for setting each room’s mood and style.

However, choosing a custom window treatment fabric can be complicated.

You have thousands of different materials to choose from, and it’s of vital importance that you find the right solution. Homes today have a variety of windows throughout—from bay to dormer windows, glass walls, and even windows with arched tops. Because the possibilities for creating a view from your home are endless, so are the possibilities for framing that view. Each window presents unique decorating challenges, and a window coverings expert will have the skills to accommodate your home and its windows.

Professionals can also help you identify the right window treatment for the style that you are looking for.

A custom drapery expert can fulfill all your requirements, from pleated to non-pleated, flowing or fitting, and floral or geometric prints. With the opportunity to browse through different fabrics from brands such as

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Kravet®, Robert Allen, Duralee, and more, you will be able to find the exact look that you envision for your home.

Window treatments are a vital part of your home décor that define, enhance, and give your home a finished appearance. For more information about high-end custom draperies for your home, PKS Interiors can help. Serving the Bay Area for over 30 years, they are an exceptional resource for your home’s interior décor needs.

For more information, you can call PKS Interiors for an in-home consultation at 408-738-9183, or you can visit them at 101 E. El Camino Real in Sunnyvale. You can also visit their website at www.pksinteriors.net or email info@pksinteriors.net.

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Baldwin’s New Pocket Door Lock

homefashion

C

reate a

BOLDF I irst

mpression

he first impression of a home occurs upon opening the front door. The feel, weight, sound, and overall aesthetic of any door hardware immediately sets the tone. From formal and elegant to cool and contemporary, the doors tell the design story. A simple refresh of hardware can transform the look of any room and breathe fresh ideas into a familiar environment. This spring, consider hardware to be the necessary accessory.

Heritage. Baldwin has a rich heritage of delivering modern luxury to discriminating homeowners, architects, and designers through superior design, craftsmanship, and functionality.

Baldwin was the first to forge solid brass door hardware, the first to make forging (versus casting) the standard of excellence for the industry, and the first to create a lifetime warranty on finishes.

Baldwin is synonymous with innovation and unsurpassed quality.

Craftsmanship. A timeless and trustworthy brand, Baldwin is for those who “own it” with unparalleled confidence. It’s about creating a signature look that seamlessly blends Baldwin hardware with the personality of its owner—no limits, and no boundaries. Baldwin is about more than just having something special, it’s about showing the world what true luxury is really worth.

Materials. At Baldwin, quality is never compromised. From using the finest materials to crafting hardware by hand, Baldwin is committed to creating high-quality hardware that not only appears flawless and beautiful, but also endures the rigors of time.

Hand-forged and meticulously designed, Baldwin’s new Pocket Door Lock provides architects and designers with endless design opportunities, and will be available in four distinct collections and 18 finishes. Baldwin’s Pocket Door Lock offers design flexibility and longevity with its patented Limited Lifetime PVD Finish™ Warranty, which features advanced finishing technology (Physical Vapor Deposition) to create a finish highly resistant to the effects of weather and normal usage. The new PDL is available in three finishes with this warranty: Polished Nickel, Satin Nickel and Polished Brass.

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You can see Baldwin Hardware products locally at Belmont Hardware. When you visit one of Belmont Hardware’s six showrooms, you will find Northern California’s largest selection of the world’s finest decorative finish hardware and plumbing fixtures. Belmont Hardware is family owned and has been a favored source of homeowners, architects, interior designers, and custom homebuilders for over 80 years. You can visit the Belmont Hardware showrooms, located in Belmont, San Jose, San Francisco, Novato, Walnut Creek, and Fresno, to see an extensive collection of products on display. Or you can visit www.belmonthardware.com for additional information and more details.

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homefashion sophisticated hardwood— Natural FlooriNg with CharaCter

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ardwood floors are a wise investment for just about every home. They add elegance and classic style, while increasing the resale value of your home. They are also environmentally friendly and sustainable when purchased from a reliable store!

Wood flooring comes in many styles and types that can be customized with unique designs (such as borders and medallions) and rich finishes. With all the options available, a hardwood floor can complement your individual personality and harmonize with the décor of your home.

Wood species used for flooring vary from American-grown oak, walnut, ash, birch, cherry and more to exotic, imported woods including Brazilian Cherry, mahogany, teak and Amendoim. The conservative look of red oak is perfect for kitchens or to brighten a room; while the lush chocolate shade of textured Brazilian Rosewood will add balance and depth to a room with a light décor.

Homeowners have more recently been drawn to the vibrancy that these exotic hardwoods bring to a living space. Wide, flat boards with non-luster finishes and contemporary gray wood colors are both growing trends in home flooring, as well.

Prefinished floors are the most popular choice on the market. In fact, they afford you the ability to get new hardwood installed and lived on with much less work and time than floors that are “finished in place” (also known as finished on-site). Prefinished floors have virtually taken over market share from site-finished floors due to their ease of installation and convenience.

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Project done with Clayton Nelson & Associates

With all of these choices, the best way to go about your flooring project is to talk to a hardwood floor expert who can help you decide which wood species, type and finish will work best for your home.

Slaughterbeck Floors is a family-owned and operated business that has been serving the Bay Area for over 30 years. In their showroom, you can view over 800 samples of flooring products that include hardwood, bamboo, cork, laminate, carpeting, and vinyl.

You can take home samples and meet with their flooring experts to discuss your new flooring project or hardwood refinish. You can visit them at 730 Camden Ave. in Campbell, call them at 408-379-5813, or visit www.slaughterbeckfloors.com.

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homefashion

G

etting ready in the morning has to be easier than racing around the house, trying to find matching shoes and a shirt that isn’t wrinkled. Isn’t it time to rid your life of the morning mayhem? Working with a closet professional, they will help design and create an organized custom closet, as well as other areas of your home.

A custom closet adds value to your home. There is something luxurious about walk-in closets, no matter what the size, devoting an entire room to storage and organization. Reach-in closets can literally double your storage with closet organizers. Multiple rods, custom-built trays, shelves and cabinets will utilize all of your space. For additional closet space, turn one of your bedroom walls into a wardrobe closet with lots of hanging and folding space, hidden shoe shelves, and closet doors that slide or swing open.

Finishes add color and character. Melamine finish is affordable and durable, while opting for stained or painted wood offers higher levels of customization. You can add decorative and architectural elements such as carved wood appliqués, crown and base molding, and decorative hardware.

Wood closet organizers offer the ultimate in personalization and luxury.

The richness and exclusive feel of wood and wood veneer accentuates the architecture and beauty of your home. Choose from maple, cherry, birch, and mahogany.

Closet accessories are the essential working pieces, from padded jewelry drawers to customized additions such as tie, belt, and pant racks, ironing stations, shelf dividers, shoe racks, pull-out baskets and trays.

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Organization can be achieved in other areas of the home, too.

Because home offices are often located in very visible parts of the home, custom office desks, workstations, bookshelves, and more can help clean things up. Designs feature both freestanding furniture and built-in configurations in a huge range of sizes, finishes and details.

Wall beds are the perfect way to save space. Wall beds allow you to convert rooms instantly, save valuable floor space, and let guests sleep over with comfort and convenience. Everything is designed to work within the bed cabinet and surrounding built-ins, effectively creating a multi-functional room. Custom shelving, drop-down tables, pullout nightstands, display alcoves, and media cabinetry are some of the accessories to consider.

For more information or to schedule a free design consultation, you can call Closet Factory at 888-501-0541, visit their showroom at 1000 B. Commercial in San Carlos, or visit them online at www.closetfactory.com.

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homefashion

Your Guide to Finding the Ideal Furniture uying new furniture can be such an exciting moment, not to mention the drastic transformation you get to enjoy once everything is in your home. However, if you do not plan accordingly during the shopping process, certain unplanned steps might occur that can hinder the overall success of your furniture-buying experience.

Before you start, it’s crucial that you do the proper homework to avoid any impulse decisions. When you are informed and aware of the little details, such as what kind of furniture suits your home or what practical requirements do you have for your furniture, you will feel completely confident with your decisions.

Here are some things to consider before making any purchases.

Preparation. It is very important to be ready when you arrive to meet with design professionals. Preparing for this isn’t hard at all; first, make sure that you have all of your measurements. Next, bring photos of your rooms so that a designer can see what they are working with. Finally, make sure you consult with all members of your family in regards to decisions and design preference. All of these things will make the process go much smoother when you arrive at the store.

Custom. When buying sofas, there is no better opportunity than having the ability to custom tailor aspects to fit both your likes and needs. Professionals can create any sofa that you want—bring in your own drawings and ideas, and let the design experts go to work. You can change the colors, size, and even the softness of the cushions to your exact liking.

Originality. You want unique, sophisticated pieces. Make sure you work with a company that can deliver exclusive works of art so that your décor is one-of-a-kind.

Avetex Furniture has been in the same location for 14 years, offering a wide selection of custom sofas, chairs, lounges, benches,

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beds, and much more. Avetex exclusively represents designer Christopher Guy and his Dramatic Collection.

Dramatic and sophisticated, this collection is found at the world’s top trading centers, like Harold in London. As a direct buyer of Nicoletti Home® Italian furniture, you can get the best prices with Avetex. They also carry famous European brands, such as Calligaris, Rossetto, Tonin Casa, ALF® Group, SMA, Camelgroup®, Arredo Classic, Bakokko Group, Dupen, García Sabaté®, and Domitalia®, and additional brands such as AICO® Furniture, Stanley, Lexington and Brownstone.

Avetex also represents IMG Norway with reclining sofas and chairs. Avetex also works closely with interior designers, and provides free delivery and installation in the Bay Area. You can visit their showroom for a free design consultation (in-store only) at 6114/6101 Geary Blvd. (25th Ave.) in San Francisco, open Mon-Fri 10-6, Sat 115 and Sun 12-4. You can also call them at 415-831-6529 or visit their website at www.avetexfurniture.com.

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homeautomation

Make the right Connections– home automation makes your home intelligent and ot much can turn around a bad day quite as quickly as music. Now take that music and surround yourself with it, inside your home and out, and your mood is suddenly on the fast track to improvement. And, you’ll be even happier when you see how your home audio system looks—if you can even see it.

From the music playing in your living room that engulfs you in surround sound to the lighting that dims just perfectly with the touch of a button, ambiance is truly everything. However, nothing can ruin the mood you worked so hard to create like those unsightly wires, bulky equipment, and speakers that take away from the beauty of your spaces. Let’s face it—equipment is not something that you want to see as part of your décor.

When it comes to the upgraded technology in your home, professionals have the ability and expertise to hide every single element that you don’t want to see. With everything out of sight, the room will not only feel larger, but more elegant.

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Speakers can be made subtle in appearance.

If you want to take it a step further, innovative Live-Wall is a product that actually keeps your speakers completely invisible. Your Live Wall will even produce 3D, holographic, nuanced imaging if you are in the mood for some added ambiance.

Elite Moving Art by Leon is a premier recess-mounted moving art solution that can actually conceal your TV, offering the appearance of an elegant piece of framed art when you want to hide the TV. Lighting can completely transform a room with the simple touch of a button from a smart phone. With pre-set personalized programs, or automated sensors, you have the power to define a mood with light. In fact, you can control a variety of aspects with the simple touch of a button, including window shades and coverings, and even movie screens in the home theater. Professionals can sync each element so that your entire living space can transform in an instant—your home will be both beautiful and comfortable.

Elegant

When it comes to taking your home from ordinary to extraordinary, you want to work with a professional that constantly seeks out new technology, ensuring that you will get the best products available on the market. They should also communicate with architects and homeowners to ensure a comprehensive design and installation. Finally, a professional should recognize that the seamless design of your system should complement the ambiance of your home, not distract from it. You want convenience, comfort and savings—a truly enjoyable home that is smart in every way.

Evergreen Home Systems Inc. can keep your home as elegant as possible by hiding the equipment you don’t want to see. From concealing speakers to total home automation, Evergreen Home Systems will work with you from design to installation to deliver a plan that is both on time and within your budget. For a thorough free consultation or more information, you can call Evergreen Home Systems at 408-691-9386 or visit www.evergreenhomesystems.com.

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kitchen&bath

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G eT P erfeCTly C lean — lectrolux Front load laundry

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ince 1919, Electrolux has been offering thoughtfully designed, innovative, and sustainable solutions with products such as refrigerators, dishwashers, washing machines, dryers, cookers, and additional small domestic appliances. Now, Electrolux has utilized their abilities in efficient design to bring you the ultimate in laundry appliances: the 60- and 70-series front load washer and dryer.

Seven specialty wash and dry cycles allows you to customize your laundry. This feature is ideal for the person who likes everything customized to their specific needs. For example, do you need to wash a load of bedding? There’s a cycle for that. How about jeans or workout gear? There are cycles for those, too.

We all know what it’s like to be in a laundry pinch—your child has an evening soccer game, but your day was so busy that you completely forgot to wash their uniform. Now, you can literally wash and dry the uniform before dinner is over, in just 30 minutes. The Fast Wash and Dry cycles takes just 15 minutes to wash, and 14 minutes to dry.

High volume loads are no longer a problem. The Electrolux washer is so big that it can fit an amazing 60 XL t-shirts. The Sure-2-Fit® capacity washer allows you to wash more in one load with a 4.3 cu. ft. D.O.E. capacity. Additionally, the dryer features an 8.0 cu. ft. D.O.E. capacity.

The Perfect Steam™ feature adds steam to select wash cycles to gently deep clean clothes, or to select dry cycles to reduce wrinkles and freshen clothes. The Electrolux technology moves steam from the bottom of the tub up through the clothes, which is effective at permeating into the clothes.

Clothes are completely saturated with steam during the middle of the wash cycle to remove stains without damaging the fabric.

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kitchen&bath Expertcare™ wash system uses multiple wash motions and a powerful stream of soap and water over the top of the fabric to achieve the most thorough clean possible. 25% of all households have a family member who is allergic to detergent. Many washers can leave up to 18–20% of residual detergent on a cycle of clothes—the Electrolux has proven to be over 400-times more effective, leaving only around 0.05%. With the Fresh Water Rinse, water bypasses the dispenser, reducing the amount of detergents and additives left in the fresh load after a cycle. You get cleaner clothes, whiter whites, and brighter colors.

The NSF™ certified Allergen Cycle removes up to 95% of common household allergens such as pet dander in the washer, and the NSF certified Sanitize Cycle kills 99.9% of common household bacteria in the dryer. If you have pets or are highly cautious of spreading germs, this is an ideal laundry solution.

Finally, there are virtually no space limitations with this set—they can be raised on a pedestal, placed under counter, stacked, and even double stacked. Because of the Perfect Balance® system, even oversized washed loads are balanced for smooth and quiet operation and very little vibration. Your washer and dryer can be installed upstairs, in closets, and even near bedrooms. Available in Titanium or Island White, both colors complement any home décor, from contemporary to traditional.

For more information about Electrolux products, and much more, Atherton Appliance & Kitchens can help. Atherton’s knowledgeable appliance specialists, design team, factory-trained and certified installation group, and dedicated constant care call center are all ready to help you today. The team at Atherton Appliance & Kitchens provides you with a family feel, and are all directed by ownership that assures perfection that translates to a top level of accountability, trust, and professionalism. Atherton offers an educational program called Enjoy Life, which has been designed to help clients learn and understand ways they can save money and enhance their individual home living style. Programs include culinary, remodeling, fine home building, and smart home education.

You can visit the Atherton Appliance & Kitchens’ showroom, enjoy a gourmet cup of coffee at their Atherton Café, and even test out their live coffee machines along with kitchen appliances at 695 Veterans Blvd. in Redwood City. You can call them at 650-369-1794, email them for a quote at info@athertonappliance.com, or visit www.athertonappliance.com to see more appliances, cabinets, countertops and culinary education.

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kitchen&bath

Keeping It Cool— Is Your Wine Being Stored Properly? uying and collecting fine wine is more than just a hobby—it is an investment that holds emotional weight for many people. How the wine is stored is important to how it will taste when opened. Wine that is stored in extreme temperatures for too long can end up forcing you to discard your wine that took months or years to collect.

Wine stored in a temperature-controlled environment means that your beloved wine will be preserved, protected, and ready to enjoy at any moment.

Since temperature is a big factor for wine, it is important to know that wine stored at temperatures higher than 70° F will age wine too quickly. If it gets even hotter, your wine may get “cooked,” resulting in flat aromas and flavors. The ideal temperature range for wine is between 45–65° F. This means that the household refrigerator is not a good bet for the longer term because the temperature falls well below 45°. This will eventually dry out corks, which can allow air to seep into bottles and damage the wine and the caustic wine vapors can damage the appliance.

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Wine cellar cooling is a specialty that falls in a niche between refrigeration and air conditioning. This is why it’s crucial to consult with an expert that specializes in wine cellar cooling. For your wine refrigeration, Cold Craft Inc. can assist you with finding the ideal solution. The professionals at Cold Craft, a full service heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration company, can work with you to install and service wine cellar refrigeration to your exact needs. For more information, you can call them at 888-447-0071 or visit www.ColdCraft.com.

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kitchen&bath What is the Most Used Appliance in the Kitchen?

Introducing The ROHL® Water Appliance™ Solution

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id you know that 60% of our time in the kitchen is usually spent at the sink and faucet? On average, the sink, faucet and its complementary accessories are used 10–30 times daily—that’s more usage than most other kitchen appliances get in an entire week. ROHL has taken this insight and created The ROHL® Water Appliance™ solution.

The ROHL® Water Appliance™ is a no-compromise creation. The combination of a foundational sink, multi-functional faucet and complementary accessories like integrated disposer buttons, instant hot water dispensers, and/or water filtration systems ensures that this most used kitchen “appliance” offers a full range of function and style. Its combined function, beauty, and durability offer a lasting result.

ROHL sinks, like those from the luxury stainless steel and fireclay collections, are authentically crafted using the finest materials and are designed to withstand the demands of a modern-day kitchen.

From the size and shape of the bowl to the materials used in its construction, each component is carefully considered to ensure its longevity. In fact, many ROHL sinks outlive the very spaces for which they were created—a true testament to the artisans who handcraft each piece.

This same attention to detail also exists in every ROHL faucet.

With traditional, transitional and modern options from which to choose—every ROHL faucet lives up to the ROHL promise of authenticity, innovation and value. ROHL faucets combine functionality

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with thoughtful design. Whether selecting from traditional Old World styling or modern interpretations of architectural icons, the choices are limitless.

Impeccably crafted, superbly engineered and the focal point of today’s most up-to-date kitchens, The ROHL® Water Appliance™ represents the perfect combination of form, function and uncompromising value and ensures every element has been resolved. It is the ultimate kitchen solution.

ROHL offers high-end, luxury faucets, sinks and fixtures for America’s finest homes, resorts and hospitality projects. They have helped homeowners and designers create personal expressions of authentic product for over 30 years. From traditional to transitional to modern, the ROHL line includes a wide range of top-quality faucets, fixtures, shower components and accessories.

You can see ROHL products locally at Belmont Hardware. When you visit one of Belmont Hardware’s six showrooms, you will find Northern California’s largest selection of the world’s finest decorative finish hardware and plumbing fixtures. Belmont Hardware is family owned and has been a favored source of homeowners, architects, interior designers, and custom homebuilders for over 80 years. You can visit the Belmont Hardware showrooms, located in Belmont, San Jose, San Francisco, Novato, Walnut Creek, and Fresno, to see an extensive collection of products on display. Or you can visit www.belmonthardware.com for additional information and more details.

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kitchen&bath

Soothe Your Body and Soul

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team showers are becoming increasingly popular, such as in master bathrooms and exercise rooms. The drive behind the desire for a steam shower is that steam soothes both the body and the soul, allowing you to feel more refreshed, relaxed, and ready to take on any activity that the day might have in store.

Complete custom frameless steam shower designs are available with unique panel sizes and exclusivity for space, and most importantly, numerous glass and hardware options to accommodate individual tastes.

The Marquis line of frameless glass shower enclosures includes highly customized steam showers with glass that goes all the way to the ceiling, creating a lovely focal point in the bathroom while also offering the full benefits of the steam experience. Further customization follows for the placement of transoms. Transoms are required in order to control the amount of moisture in the shower as well as aid in ventilation. Transoms can be specially cut and placed above the door or in the panel, whichever is best suited to each customer’s design and usage.

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With the option of using channel in the ceiling and no hardware showing, frameless steam glass enclosures can shine like jewels in your bathroom.

The talented teams at CB Showers—the “CB” stands for custom built—can design and install enclosures that are works of art for your bath. For more information, you can visit CB Showers’ inspiring showroom featuring the company’s vast array of design options and outstanding products, located at 1160 Industrial Road, Suite 10 in San Carlos, or you can call their consultants at 650-593-6997 www.CBShowers.com.

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V

essel

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aMMoCk

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aThTuB

Takes stylish relaxation to a new Level

“Struck by the synergy between the shapes of two compelling symbols of relaxation, a hammock and a bathtub, we were inspired to develop a piece that would provide the ultimate vehicle for total escapism.”

–Miles Hartwell, Co-founder of Splinter Works The peaceful experience of kicking-back in a hammock has been further enhanced by combining it with the immersive comfort of soaking in a hot bath. By literally elevating the experience of bathing into a suspended sculpture, the bathroom has been reinvented as a contemplative sanctuary for artful relaxation.

Designed for use in a wet room, Vessel is suspended from the walls and does not touch the floor. It is fixed with stainless steel brackets that can be covered over, or left revealed. The bath is filled using a floor standing tap and the wastewater is released through the base into a floor drain. A downpipe drain can also be installed if a wet room setting is not possible.

Vessel is made from carbon fiber, which is utilized for its inherent strength, and ability to be formed into complex curves. Furthermore, the weave of the fabric references the cloth of a typical hammock. Beneath the layers of carbon fiber is a foam core, which insulates the tub. This means that the bath stays hot for considerably longer than normal.

Another beguiling characteristic of carbon fiber is that it offers an unparalleled texture. Through the smooth layers of lacquer, it always inspires a close-up look at the depth of the geometric weave of the fiber. Even in black, it has a surprisingly soft look that is more associated with fabric.

At 106” long, Vessel is longer than a regular bathtub, leaving plenty of room to share the experience. Custom sizes are available but it is also designed so that it can be trimmed up to 8” to allow for flexible installation. Vessel can be tailored in different colored lacquers; black, white, red, blue, yellow, pink, bronze, and pure silver, or embellished in hand-applied gold leaf with clear lacquer.

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kitchen&bath After the success of the suspended Vessel hammock bathtub, the freestanding Vessel evolved as a standalone piece that doesn’t need walls, yet still offers the playful form.

With an optimum shape for a relaxing bathing experience, it has more flexibility of arrangement. The visually arresting curvaceous shapes have a dark magnetism, luring the eye to explore their striking contours.

Conceived in woven and lacquered carbon fiber, they are also undeniably tactile, warm, and inviting.

Splinter Works have in fact pioneered the use of carbon fiber in the bathroom.

The pieces have to be produced in a giant autoclave, which is normally used to make Formula One cars. The love for this challenging material not only stems from the incredible strength, but also its lightweight characteristics, (when empty, it weighs just 14 kilos) meaning not only can the freestanding Vessel be positioned anywhere in the room, but it can go anywhere in the house with no need to reinforce floorboards in the upper floors.

Splinter Works’ mission is to create furniture that is engaging and inspiring.

Through their designs they strive to enrich the lives of users, enhancing their environment and elevating the experience of everyday life. Their aim is to create work that is individual, thought provoking, aesthetically beguiling, intelligently designed, and seamlessly functional.

The designs are experimental and theatrical, while maintaining the importance of the inherent function of the piece. The work revels in playing visual tricks where balance is often questioned. Opposing dichotomies of solidity versus weightlessness, motion

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versus stillness, and strength versus fragility are played out in ambitious designs through innovative materials. Splinter Works can tailor designs to suit clients' requirements and also produce unique commissions where every element, from the intended location and practical requirements, to striking a personal resonance with the commissioner, can be considered and accomplished.

You can see Splinter Works’ products exclusively imported by PSCBath locally at Belmont Hardware. When you visit one of Belmont Hardware’s six showrooms, you will find Northern California’s largest selection of the world’s finest decorative finish hardware and plumbing fixtures. Belmont Hardware is family owned and has been a favored source of homeowners, architects, interiors designers, and custom homebuilders for over 80 years. To see Splinter Works products on display, you can visit the Belmont Hardware showroom located in San Jose. You can also visit the Belmont Hardware showrooms located in Belmont, San Francisco, Novato, Walnut Creek and Fresno, featuring an extensive collection of products on display, or you can visit www.belmonthardware.com for additional information and more details.

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homeremodeling

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nsure an

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njoyable

REMODELING EXPERIENCE WITH THE DESIGN/BUILD PROCESS enovating your kitchen and upgrading your bathroom will give your home a fresh new look and increased functionality. A room addition provides additional space for a growing family or any lifestyle changes. If you want something totally new and different, then you may want to consider a complete renovation.

With all the options and choices available, where do you start the ball rolling on your project and whom do you call? The simple answer is an expert—someone who can handle each and every detail.

Selecting the right company can make a huge difference in the projects’ success. You want a company that will walk you through the process from the idea stage until the project is completed.

A design/build company provides a one-stop

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shopping experience that expedites the entire remodel procedure. This gives you peace of mind knowing they are taking care of everything, relieving the pressure off of you, the homeowner. There is one contact in charge of every aspect of your remodel. Therefore all questions, suggestions or new ideas can be communicated quickly.

Design/build professionals utilize a very structured process, allowing you to not just stay within your established budget; they ensure a well-managed project that is always finished on time.

Initially, you and the professional will discuss your ideas and expectations and then they will prepare a preliminary design. Based on this design, they will then develop an estimate of the costs associated with the project. Working with you, the project can be modified until it fits your

exact needs and budget. Once you approve the budget, they will finalize the design with complete architectural and structural plans.

The next step is the final cost estimate and bidding process, where they will work with you in selecting the contractors and will prepare the scope of work. Obtaining permits is next, followed by the actual project planning and scheduling.

After the construction starts, your design/build professionals will ensure quality control of the project until the job is finally completed.

Cinnabar Builders is a full service construction management company that incorporates the very best practices in project planning, scheduling, execution and communication.

For more information or a free consultation, you can call them at 408-439-2410 or visit www.cinnabarbuilders.com ONLINE AT BAYLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

lookIng for DesIgn InsPIratIon? NATURAL STONE—ImagIne the PossIbIlItIes

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here’s a reason why many of the world’s significant architectural achievements were built with masonry. Architects and builders choose masonry because of its beauty, design versatility, and durability, making it an ideal selection for any area of the home, both indoors and out. Whether using natural stone, brick, stone veneer, or manufactured stone, the application of the appropriate materials can enhance the overall appearance of any environment. Not to mention, it’s recyclable and extremely environmentally friendly.

Paving an outdoor living space, front walkway or driveway is a modern way to add some warmth and sophistication. A popular choice is natural bluestone, which is a quarried product often coming from the East Coast. It can come in a variety of colors, cuts and finishes depending on your use and look. Arizona flagstone, travertine, and slate are other gorgeous paving choices that can compliment a variety of styles. Concrete pavers are used in driveways because they are built to take heavy loads, but give your home a finished and elegant look.

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homeremodeling

Another example is stone veneer, which offers the beauty of full thickness stone with a thinner profile. This overcomes the need for additional structural reinforcement. Thin veneer often can be applied over existing masonry, added as an interior accent wall, to a kitchen backsplash or island, to fireplaces, and much more. It has the added benefit of reduced transportation cost and easier installation of full bed stone. If you are looking for a do-it-yourself install, look for natural stone veneer panels. They come in a variety of colors with a ledgestone or dimensional, contemporary style.

Once you are familiar with your masonry choices, the second most crucial step is finding a showroom that allows you to visualize exactly what will work best for your project.

Imagine a location that displays hundreds of laid-in-place pieces of natural stone and brick, manufactured stone exhibits, and concrete paver samples in action that you can touch, feel, and get a concept of how it will actually look in your own home. Having the chance to see the beauty of masonry for yourself allows you to gain inspiration and ideas to imagine what your own project could look like. A professional masonry shop often allows you to check out samples, find and compare complementary products, and receive the necessary general information about pricing and timing of delivered products to help make your project what you want it to be. This invaluable experience makes your masonry vision tangible so you can turn those ideas into reality.

Whether you are a homeowner, interior designer, contractor, homebuilder, or architect, the ability to browse and compare products is essential. This allows for successful communication and project collaboration because you can physically show the person you are working with the specific displays that you love (or even don’t love). Under one roof, you can gain a better understanding of what is available and what products work best for certain applications, which make your design process both enjoyable and efficient.

Locally, Peninsula Building Materials offers this exact type of showroom where you can view more than 200 varieties of masonry beautifully installed and ready to experience. Complete with consulting rooms, you can discuss a project with your professional or a knowledgeable staff member. PBM is dedicated to serving customers and finding the right materials for any home and budget. Visit their expansive showroom at 2490 Charleston Road in Mountain View, open Tuesday through Saturday, and browse displayed products from all over the world. You can also see their full line of masonry and landscape products at any of the four PBM Greater Bay Area yard locations in Redwood City, Sunnyvale, San Martin and Livermore. For more information, you can call them at 877-282-0522 or visit www.pbm.1923.com.

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homeremodeling

a GlanCe InsIde a he homeowners featured in this article absolutely loved the charm of their modest, cottagestyle home. However, their energetic fourBefore year-old was quickly overrunning the home with toys, DVDs, books, games, and more. What began as a project to design more play-live space in the family room quickly ballooned to include more overall entertaining space for kids and adults, alike.

The homeowners also wanted to consider the feasibility of creating a full guest suite, should an aging family member need to move in at some point in the future.

Due to local building ordinances, their square footage was limited to 600. Therefore, any new space needed to be flexible with opportunities for storage wherever possible. An arched TV niche was a visual anchor point to the space and designed with a storage closet behind. Nook areas played double duty, such as a crafting desk turned wet bar, and an eating nook turned game table. The general play space was designed with a sofa bed in place, while a full three-piece bathroom could elegantly accommodate overnight guests and neighborhood play dates.

While the client requested conveniences of modern technology, the space had to also retain elements of charm, and did so with vaulted ceilings that mimicked the main house. In addition, trim

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work around doors and windows provided the wood details that the clients loved. Strategically placed windows showcased views of the entire yard. Clerestory windows on the neighbor’s side and solar operated skylights provided an abundance of natural light and privacy. Understanding this space as an auxiliary area, heating was addressed simply with an electric fireplace designed into a built-in bookcase that also neatly house board games, books and toys.

One design challenge was how to leverage the volume of space in a usable way. By designing a loft space above the bathroom (and secondary storage room), an inventive kid’s reading loft was created and equipped with a trap door entrance.

Another challenge was to maintain the support value of what would become the new, shared wall of the garage to the new addition. Repurposing an existing window opening to accommodate a new interior door (leading from the garage to the addition) kept the structural integrity of the exterior wall and allowed for a relatively easy tie-in of the new space to the existing structure.

Offering multi-functional and multi-flexible spaces for kids and adults alike, this new space offers a place to entertain and host gatherings, play dates, and overnight guests.

With Case® Design/Remodeling, every single aspect of your home improvement needs are covered. The process-driven team at Case always strives to facilitate a logical sequence of steps that will help break down and simplify the remodeling process, while keeping the project on track and moving forward from design to completion. For more information, you can visit their website at www.CaseSanJose.com, or call 408-484-3884 for a free consultation.

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products&services

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ntil disaster strikes, whether it’s a storm, earthquake, or rolling blackout, we typically don’t realize how drastically we depend on electricity. Of course, the most obvious component that we notice when the power goes out is lighting. However, there are so many other power-dependent utilities and systems in our homes that we oftentimes forget about that not only keep us connected to comfort, but also in some cases, are necessary for our survival.

Heating and cooling, refrigerators, computers, alarm systems, wine cellars, home theaters, and even more crucial concerns such as medical equipment can all be affected in a power outage. Wouldn’t it be nice to never have to worry about losing connection to these aspects that we have become so reliant on?

Now, you can be completely secure in knowing that your electrical needs will always be met in the event of a power outage with an emergency backup generator. A backup generator monitors the utility and activates automatically when there’s a power outage, even when you’re away from home. Your electrical appliances will continue to function with uninterrupted power, no matter what’s happening outdoors.

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Kohler® generators can automatically power your air conditioning, sump pump, fridge, oven, and more in just 10 seconds. Before the power even goes out, a component called an ATS (automatic transfer switch) is constantly monitoring the electricity coming from the utility.

When utility power fails or drops below an acceptable level (also known as a brownout), the ATS will signal the generator to start. Seven-to-ten seconds later, the ATS transfers from the utility feed to the generator feed, and supplies power to your home as though nothing even happened.

Once the utility power comes back on, the ATS will then automatically transfer the source of your power from the generator to the utility, and your home will instantly be back up and running like normal. Your standby generator will shut down, and resume to being ready for the next power outage. It’s that simple.

Backup generators are more powerful, safe, reliable, and efficient than the small, portable generators typically purchased in hardware stores. Units are permanently mounted and self-activating—you’ll never have to pull the unit out of storage, add fuel, and turn it on when you need it.

Every Kohler generator is meticulously quality-tested for complete reliability. Inside each unit is a commercial-grade engine that has been built to withstand extreme workloads. Not only do you get to enjoy an uninterrupted lifestyle, but you also get Kohler’s premium five-year, 2,000-hour protection, plus a corrosion-proof enclosure that’s built to last.

Electro-Motion, Inc. is an authorized dealer and service center for Kohler units, as well as a variety of other brands. Since 1967, Electro-Motion has been servicing and maintaining emergency standby generators and automatic transfer switches—the two critical components of any emergency power system. All of their technicians are Electrical Generating Systems Association (EGSA) certified, and can help you achieve an undisturbed lifestyle today. For more information, you can call Electro-Motion at 650-321-6169 or visit their website at www.electromotion.com.

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eating When It Comes to Your ooling and Should You Repair or Replace?

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oes it seem as though your air conditioning doesn’t work as efficiently as it used to? With the recent warmer weather, the last thing you want is for you and your family to be stuck in an uncomfortable environment.

Your cooling and heating system is one of the most important components of your home, and the choice between replacing and repairing can be a big one. Because of this, it’s important to evaluate each option.

Cost is an immediate consideration—the up-front price of repairs will likely be less than installing a new model. But consider the age of your current system and the relative cost of repairing it: If your existing equipment is more than 10 years old and the cost of repairs is more than one-third of what a new system would cost, it may make more sense to replace it. (And if the repair bill approaches 50% of the cost of a replacement, an upgrade may be a better choice).

If repairs are less than one-third of the replacement cost and your system is less than 10 years old, it may have many productive years ahead. Even 25year-old equipment can still keep your home comfortable with the proper maintenance and attention.

Of course, an older system is more likely to require repair going forward, so factor in the potential costs and inconvenience of keeping up an aging system.

It's also important to look beyond the up-front price tag to the cost of the system over time. More energy efficient heating and cooling systems mean lower monthly utility bills, leading to savings you'll reap year after year for the life of the system.

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ystem

You can understand the heating efficiency of a furnace by its Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE), which measures the percentage of energy that's actually used to heat your home. Most new furnaces have an AFUE of 80% or more, and the highest AFUE available is greater than 98%. If your current system is less than 80% efficient, you could save considerably on your monthly utilities with an upgrade.

For cooling with an air conditioner or heat pump, the measurement is Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER). A higher SEER rating means greater energy savings. 13 SEER is the minimum currently required, and models in the mid 20s are available. Upgrading to a higher SEER rating means energy savings over the life of the system.

For heat pumps in heating mode, look for a Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF) of over 10 for greater efficiencies. Heat pumps are available with HSPF of up to 13.

Finally, installing a more efficient system will help with the energy costs, but if you are considering a geothermal system, it may also qualify you for tax credits of up to 30% of the installation.

Ultimately, your decision comes down to evaluating the short-term costs versus the long-term value, and making sure that you understand the impact of energy savings over the life of the system while weighing concerns, such as air quality.

Cold Craft Inc. is a reliable partner who can help walk you through the pros and cons of repair and replacement so that you can make the right decision for your home and family. For more information, you can call them at 888-447-0071 or visit www.ColdCraft.com.

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products&services

to Look Beautiful Again? here’s an alternative to replacing your wood cabinets or floors. People often put off refinishing their cabinets or wood floors because of the inconvenience, dust, noxious odor, consumed time, and budget. Over time, dirt build up, wear and tear, scratches and age-discolored finishes can make wood look flat and lifeless. Replacing cabinets or refacing (putting on new doors) requires new wood to make their products. Traditionally, once wood floors, cabinets or other woodwork in the home reached the point where it looked terrible, the options were limited.

The good news is that with the products and methods available today, restoring the beauty of wood has never been simpler or more cost effective. By improving the look of your existing cabinets, you will save time and money. Technicians experienced with this process and methods of renewing wood finishes can produce like-new luster to your wood cabinets, floors and trim without the waste, mess and harsh odors from chemicals or expense of traditional sanding and refinishing. This can be done in only days not weeks.

Here’s how it works: A thorough cleaning is critical for great results, so the first step is to clean the wood surface of any dirt, grease and grime out of the pores.

Any repairs needed are also made at this time including gaps, holes, splintered wood, etc.

Once the wood surface has been cleaned and repaired, it is sealed and the new water-based finish is then applied. The newer water-based finishes available today have been proven to be as strong and long-lasting as traditional oil-based finishes, but do not have the harsh chemical fumes or yellowing tendencies. It’s non-toxic and odorless. Additionally, pigments and dyes can be added to the new finish so that the technician can achieve virtually any color desired. Say you have maple cabinets and would like a slightly darker stained wood, the new finish can be custom dyed to your color preference and then professionally applied.

Do you want a color change for your cabinets? The same cleaning and repair process is used and a stain or opaque finish is applied with a sprayer for a seamless, streak-free finish. The change can be as subdued or dramatic as you wish.

Don’t replace your wood cabinets or floors—all you have to do is “N-Hance” them. N-Hance also does banisters, doors, fireplace mantels, windowsills, bamboo, cork, engineered veneer, hand-scraped and distressed wood floors, and much more.

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Cabinet Renewal

Before

After

Basic Floor Renewal

Before

After

For more information about having your cabinets, floors or other woodwork in your home refinished, you can call N-Hance Wood Renewal, serving San Francisco and San Mateo counties, at 650-731-3917, and you can call N-Hance Wood Renewal, serving Santa Clara county at 408-220-6626. You can visit www.nhance.com.

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products&services

save energy, space, and water—

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hen you are in need of hot water, there can be nothing more frustrating than standing around and waiting for the water in your sink or shower to finally get hot. Not to mention, because we are in a serious drought, you probably feel pangs of guilt and helplessness as all of that wasted water goes down the drain. Wouldn’t it be nice to have endless and pure hot water available at all times, without having to deal with the repercussions?

Today’s energy-conscious homeowners want an alternative to heating and reheating the water in their storage tank heater, and tankless water heaters are proving to be the ultimate solution.

Whether you want to reduce your carbon footprint, lower your monthly utility bills, or simply enjoy continuous hot water—it’s time for you to learn about tankless. Although the initial investment of a tankless water heater may be more expensive than a traditional water heater, most users save between 30-45% in energy expenses comparatively. Tankless water heaters also provide virtually unlimited supplies of hot water to multiple taps and faucets throughout your home, at the same time. The hot-water waiting game can finally be over, for good.

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Here’s how tankless technology works: the major benefit can be found in the ability to heat water without the use of a traditional storage tank. Storage tanks often suffer standby heat loss and cause the water heating to be less efficient.

Instead of constantly warming water and storing it in a tank where energy is wasted throughout the day, tankless systems only heat water on demand. As a result, since the heater is only running for a few minutes during the day as opposed to running on and off all day long the way a traditional water heater does, a huge amount of energy is saved, and your bills will be reduced.

It is crucial to have experienced, licensed, insured, and certified experts assist you with your tankless project, offering only the highest quality products. Noritz® tankless hot water heater products, including the EZTR40, the first direct 40 gallon tank replacement, and NRCP Series Heaters, which have built-in recirculation pump condensing water heaters, allow the utmost in continuous hot water, high energy efficiency, and low operating costs. A leader in the water heating industry for over 60 years, you can put your trust in the Noritz brand.

If you are looking to stay environmentally smart, save space in your home, save money on bills, have instant hot water all throughout your home, or even simply have an endless supply of

hot water for your house, then you are an ideal candidate for tankless—improve your quality of life today!

When you use Better Water Heaters, you can expect the best rates, service, and installations possible. Better Water Heaters provides free estimates, so you can learn more about the cost of fixing your old water heater or buying a new one by simply calling them at 408-335-0150.

You can also visit their website to learn more about tankless water heaters and more, at www.betterwaterheaters.com.

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products&services Add an Attractive Visual Touch

WITH CUSTOM IRON DOORS

W

hen you invest in custom iron for your home, you are getting more than just reliable security and protection. Gorgeous iron creations also provide an important decorative function, adding a special touch of artistic class to your doors, gates, railings, and even garage doors. There is nothing more valuable than having the opportunity to enhance the look of your home while simultaneously keeping your family safe.

However, you may have been hesitant to invest in wrought iron due to its tendency to rust and lose luster over time. While iron may seem like it needs a lot of upkeep, the truth is that recent innovations have made it one of the lowest maintenance materials on the market.

Fully customizable iron doors are available that are created by a designer and handmade from 12-gauge steel. Each iron creation is waterproof, foam-insulated, and will not rust overtime. Unlike a standard wood door, there is absolutely no refinishing or maintenance required with iron.

These particular iron doors come with dual-paned operable glass, which can be effective for both ventilation and easy cleaning. Additionally, the doors are sealed with heavy-duty weather stripping, ensuring that each door is fully sealed.

Another incredible option that you can choose for your doors, Thermal break is an exclusive new feature that does not allow any cold weather to transfer into your home through the door. Thermal break has been tested under 0-degree Celsius conditions—with this option, you can rest assured knowing that your door will keep your home comfortable, even when it’s freezing outside.

For more information about custom iron creations, Precise Iron Doors Inc. has been transforming the ideas and visions of their clients for over 14 years. Their expertise and techniques passed down for

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generations is combined with today’s high-end technology, resulting in the highest quality wrought iron doors and professional installations. There is an impressive 10-year warranty on the structural, and a five-year warranty on paint. For more information, you can call them at 1-800-532-6186 or visit their website at www.PreciseIronDoors.com.

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products&services

Professional Barbeque Cleaning Protects your Investment and Makes Food Taste Better

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n the Bay area, grilling up a hearty meal on the barbeque is a beloved pastime for most homeowners. Everyone loves a good cookout, but not many enjoy cleaning the barbeque—so it is safe to say that most grills out there could use a good scrub down.

Deep cleaning your barbeque will not only make it sparkle and shine, this procedure also will improve the taste of your food! This procedure removes fat, carbon deposits, and harmful carcinogens that can be transferred to your food. The deep cleaning also removes grease, which will make your outdoor cooking much safer by greatly reducing the chance of grease fires. On top of all of this, barbeque cleaning also prevents future corrosion, protecting your investment and extending the life of your grill.

Now that it’s been established that cleaning your barbeque is a great idea, some homeowners might be asking, “Why not do this myself?” A thorough cleaning can be a messy job, and takes about two and a half hours to properly execute. A mobile barbeque company can come to your home, and give each part of your barbeque a thorough

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yet gentle cleaning with environmentally friendly cleaning process.

They will clean and degrease every part, inspect your burners, pressure regulator, igniters and tubes and even polish your barbeque when they are done. Sometimes it is just better to call in the professionals.

For more information on mobile barbeque cleaning, you can contact BBQ Doctors at (408) 396-1440. Take advantage of off season discounts and quicker turn around time by getting your barbeque cleaned now.

You can see a complete list of their services and prices online at www.thebbqdoctorsofca.com

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products&services

re you tired of viewing the world through a worn out old screen? If you want to enjoy the beauty of your home without diminishing either your décor or the striking views outside of your windows, then the time has come to discover the next best thing in screens that can provide a convenient solution for every door situation.

Whether you have a single doorway, double door sets, or sliding patio doors, retractable screens work for every home—allowing you to use them when you need them, and keep them hidden when you don’t.

Most homeowners don’t even realize how incredibly spacious a room can feel when there isn’t a screen door behind the glass door, blocking your view.

Retractable doors remain hidden, allowing for beautiful unobstructed views and a feeling of openness.

Extremely versatile, retractable screens will work for any single or double door (inswing or outswing,) slider, or patio door. They are custom measured

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and built specifically for your doors. In most cases, the retractable screens are mounted flush to your threshold so you never have to worry about tripping when you walk in the door.

Manufactured in the USA, ClearView retractable screens come in 12 standard colors, 300 custom colors, and 20 wood grain finishes, allowing you to find the perfect fit for every room. Retractable screens feature the highest-grade powder coating, and are crafted with absolutely no plastic. They will also never snap back when you open them. With great attention to detail and the highest quality materials, ClearView retractable screen doors are known for their exceptional product and focus on customer service. Bringing the incredible screen door that does not snap back to homeowners, their patented speed reducer is unique to ClearView. For more information, you can call them at 888-691-2077 or visit www.clearviewdoor.com.

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exteriorslandscaping

Synthetic Lawn o you dream of having a green lawn all year long? With the recent call to conserve water in the state of California, this may no longer seem like an option. However, with a properly installed, extremely innovative, and high-quality synthetic grass product, the dream is actually quite attainable.

Whether for golf or for leisure, ecofriendly artificial grass and synthetic turf will take a mediocre space and turn it into a beautiful and usable area for the whole family to enjoy. No matter what your needs may be, each lawn can be custom designed and built for any application—front yards, backyards, side yards, pet areas, and more.

New to the market, Bolt™ fiber offers a sports-grade performance turf that has ushered in a new era for artificial grass.

This incredible fiber is thicker and more durable than your average synthetic turf.

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Thicker and more durable fibers add strength and resilience. The curves of the fiber are specifically designed to reflect light in just the right way— lowering the luster and making every installation look as natural as real grass.

HydroChill is another way to take your lawn to a new level. Designed as an evaporative cooling technology, HydroChill uses moisture to cool the entire turf system. A safe, antimicrobial, odorless, gelatinous substance, HydroChill mixes easily into water and is sprayed and agitated into the infill. When hydrated, HydroChill holds moisture and as the temperature of the turf rises, HydroChill evaporates into action. The result is an evenly cooled surface—the hotter it is, the cooler it gets.

The professionals at Southwest Greens® have been building synthetic turf masterpieces for 18 years. Southwest Greens specializes in the Art of the Installation; proudly designing and building quality synthetic turf amenities that will place your yard above the rest. You can learn more by calling them at 650-349-4885 or by visiting www.southwestgreens.com or www.sw-greens.com.

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exteriorslandscaping

ProTeCTInG and shadInG your hoMe Can Make a Measurable Difference retractable awning our home is not only your sanctuary, but it’s also your largest investment. If you aren’t making the most of your livable space, then the time has come to make a change. There are many things that might be keeping you from enjoying certain areas of your home. You might love those large windows that let in a lot of natural light and showcase your gorgeous view, however the sunlight probably becomes excessive at times, if not bothersome. Not to mention the annoying glare that seems to follow you around the living room, especially while trying to watch television.

When the weather warms up, your home and family may be put under additional stress that can compromise your ability to live comfortably and securely. Here are some of the three most critical factors of stress: Sunlight. Did you know that skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States? Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is classified as a human carcinogen by the U.S. Department of Health.

Y

retractable awning

Pergola awning

screen open

screen Partially open

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Heat. According to the Texas Department of Insurance, heat kills more people each year in the United States than tornadoes, floods, hurricanes, or lightning.

Intruders. Bay Area burglaries are up 34%, according to the San Jose police. Intruders have an easier time getting in through windows, which are completely unprotected in most homes.

However, you have control over these critical factors. Here is what you can do to protect yourself.

Block 99% of harmful UV radiation and save thousands of dollars. Perhaps certain furniture and your flooring have started to fade due to UV radiation. UV exposure is dangerous—if the sun seeping into your home is already fading your furnishings, think of what it might be doing to you and your family. Control your utility bills as well as the amount of light and heat that enters through your windows and glass doors. Extend the life of your furniture, carpet and irreplaceable pictures and heirlooms.

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exteriorslandscaping Extend the amount of living space you already own by 25% or more. Reclaim spaces that were once too bright, hot or exposed, and open up space for greater outdoor living and entertainment. You might have a gorgeous patio that overlooks a perfectly manicured landscape.

Yet, when the summertime arrives, you can only spend time outdoors during the evening because that bright sun is simply too much to handle. Think of all the money you have invested to create a lovely outdoor environment that you aren’t even able to enjoy year-round.

Protect and secure your family in seconds—keeping everyone safe. Create instant privacy with the push of a button, and prevent anyone from breaking your windows (even golfers and kids playing catch).

The good news is, you can easily block, extend, and protect your home with innovative shading solutions depending on the unique needs of both your home and lifestyle.

Exterior rolling shutters are the ultimate shading solution that provides up to 100% light blockage. Not only are they completely retractable at the push of a button, but they will also save plenty of money on heating and cooling costs. Rolling shutters also reduce the fading effects of the sun, allowing you to save money on heating and cooling costs, and keep your family protected by increasing the safety of your windows and decreasing the exposure of your home’s interior to strangers.

Solar screens don’t force you to sacrifice your view to the outside, while blocking 90% of UV rays and annoying glares. Shield your valuables from sun damage while simultaneously saving money on energy bills. With either manual or automatic control options, you can choose from many colors while adding elegance and comfort to your home.

Retractable awnings are an option for your outdoor space, allowing you to maximize your yard while also shading the interior at the touch of a button. Retractable awnings make your deck or patio 15 degrees cooler in 15 seconds. Installed on the house, awnings move out from the supporting wall with freestanding arms (so there are no posts). You can even choose from custom colors and sizes of Sunbrella® fabric.

Pergola awnings are another outdoor option. The Arbor Awning can mount onto an existing backyard arbor, glass roof, or even a trellis to provide shade. Sunbrella fabrics are also used with this shading solution.

In order to get the most from your investment, it’s crucial to know what to look for from a comprehensive, full service, shade and comfort solution provider before making any purchases.

Be sure to know whom you are doing business with. Look for a company that manufactures the ideal product for your specific needs, and also can provide local installation and service. Next, be sure that the company is legally compliant. They should maintain all proper contractor licenses, have up-to-date bonds, also have the appropriate liability and work compensation insurances. Look for a company that can provide you with a free, personalized, onsite consultation and quote, and has a long-term track record with thousands of satisfied clients who can provide referrals. In the end, you want to be completely educated in order to find the perfect investment for your home that will benefit you and your family in the long run.

For more information about exterior shade solutions for your home, the professionals at European Rolling Shutters can help determine your optimal solution. European Rolling Shutters have been protecting homes and families for over three decades. You can call them to book a free, no-obligation, in-home consultation at 800-327-0195, visit their showroom at 404 Umbarger Road, Suites A and B in San Jose, or see www.ERSshading.com.

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shutter Closed - Interior

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Now is the Time to Beautify Your Home WITH PROFESSIONAL LANDSCAPE DESIGN AND INSTALLATION

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hile the kitchen may be the heart of a home, all first impressions start with a home’s exterior. When your outdoor environment is just as attractive and functional as your indoor living area, the value of your home increases tremendously.

From tranquil gardens to colorful floral spaces, creating a spectacular landscape that defines your individual style and personality requires more than just strategically placed plants. It’s a comprehensive effort that successfully executes the entire scope of your vision while maintaining an architecturally consistent flow throughout the design. It’s a space uniquely crafted by both you and the professionals—an area that you love and consider to be a major part of your home.

Landscape design, carpentry, water features, and custom masonry will instantly transform a home with ordinary curb appeal into a beautiful work of art. From the design stage of your project to the installation and construction stages, landscape professionals will handle every single element.

Depending on your lifestyle, professionals will use their expertise to find an environment that is compatible with you. Perhaps you want a sustainable garden that lasts for years to come, or you might be so busy that a low-maintenance garden is an ideal fit. If you like to entertain, a family-oriented barbecue area with inviting fireplaces or fire pits can set the perfect ambiance for those get-togethers. If you are the type who likes to spend long days outside relaxing in a comfortable chair, try incorporating a tranquil water feature into your new landscape.

Professionals are also familiar with environmentally friendly options, such as eco-friendly plants, and will recycle materials as often as possible.

Landscape professionals know that planning is key to achieving an ideal landscape that mirrors your vision, but also takes into consideration the layout of your property and climate limitations. If your project has several elements to take into consideration, such as hardscaping and decking along with planting, your landscape designer will use their expertise to oversee the entire project and all of its aspects.

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If you are ready to make those outdoor spaces a part of your home that you truly love, Healy Landscape Construction, Inc. can help.

Family owned and operated, Healy Landscape has been a premier landscape and masonry contractor on the Peninsula since 1984.

Bringing old-world charm to your projects, Healy Landscape can help you achieve something as small as a walkway, to a complete outdoor landscaping remodel. For more information or to schedule a free consultation, you can call them at 650-631-8078 or visit www.healylandscape.com.

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YLIVING ART:U P our own

nique

iece of

Sculpted Olive Trees

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he olive tree is a timeless symbol of peace, perseverance, and strength. Celebrated for thousands of years, majestic olive trees are an ancient emblem of abundance and glory, and are among the oldest known cultivated trees in the world.

The Macro-Bonsai, also known as sculpted olive trees, are some of the most remarkable living sculptures in the world. However, these trees cannot simply be acquired with a trip to the local nursery.

In fact, they are extremely rare and have been nearly impossible to find in the United States—until now.

You have the exclusive opportunity to showcase an exquisite piece of revered beauty in your own yard.

After extensive searching, experts have located a selection of ancient olive trees and have transformed them into living works of art so that you and your family can enjoy their beauty for generations to come.

An authentic piece of history, these sculpted olive trees are over 100 years old. Along with the completely unique touch of style that will set your home apart from all the rest, these dignified trees also offer many benefits to the homeowner. Sculpted olive trees are one of the only living components you can buy that will never get any bigger then it is on the day that you install it. This is just one of the reasons that makes these trees an incredibly low maintenance choice.

Your incredible olive tree will create virtually no messes in your yard. Because these trees no longer produce any fruit, you don’t have to worry about constantly picking up stray olives and leaves scattered around your landscape. Additionally, sculpted olive trees are a wonderful idea for San Diego landscapes because they are drought-resistant—they thrive in the California climate.

When you look out the window and see your artistic sculpted tree, you will feel as though you are in an exotic location as opposed to your own yard.

Once you have ordered your sculpted olive tree, it will be delivered right to your door and installed.

However, it’s important to know that these trees are of limited inventory due to their rarity. If you want to take advantage of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own such an incredible antiquity, your time has arrived.

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Photography by: RTK Fine Art Photography

Olive A Dream Trees is proud to introduce to the American market the most striking landscape element to come along since the very first tree.

Upon discovering this treasure while vacationing in Europe, the professionals at Olive A Dream Trees have been cultivating and sculpting olive trees so that you can have a masterpiece for your landscape.

For more information, you can call them at 1-800-816-1783, and you can also visit www.OliveADreamTrees.com.

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exteriorslandscaping

tured, distributed, and serviced to ensure quality and satisfaction. You should love your home, including your garage, and now you can get the solutions that you need to make this happen.

Start with cabinets made with one-inch thick, adjustable shelving and all-steel hardware to withstand heavy loads and extreme temperature shifts. Choose from a wide range of cabinets in wood, metal, or stainless steel finishes mounted off the floor.

For that raw, cracked, dirty concrete on the floor, remember you don’t have to settle for epoxy paint. Select a hybrid polymer composite coating with slip-resistant sealant to end worries about cracking, blistering, color fading, or the lengthy installation time involved with epoxy finishes. Best of all, cleanup is easy—

Your Garage, Your Oasis

Start Enjoying It Today!

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o matter where you live, chances are you lead a very busy life with what seem like endless responsibilities and less free time. You long for space. You long for passion. But why long any longer? You can take charge now just by creating an organized space in your home to start exploring your passions.

Whether you have that oh-so-special car that you love to polish and pamper, are a do-ityourselfer who enjoys weekend projects, or you just want a quiet place to be—a place that can be yours, away from the chaos, space awaits you in the garage.

Simply by upgrading and organizing your garage, you can start enjoying a clutter-free space that enhances both your garage and your home.

Turn your garage into a space that works for you. Streamline your storage space. Create a new workshop area. Gain more workspace.

Simplify and organize your life and add value to your home along the way. Whatever your reasons, get the finest state-of-the-art cabinets, organizers, and floor coating systems, plus a one-stop solution with products manufac-

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a quick damp mopping and you’re done.

Choose from a variety of steel gridwall organizers to secure garden tools, sporting equipment, bicycles, and the tools you need in an easyto-find and easy-to-reach location. No matter what you need, you can find a complete garage system to fit your home and your budget. Select the best design solution for your individual and aesthetic needs to organize and makeover your garage into your personal haven.

At PremierGarage, your garage is their passion. You can schedule a complimentary design consultation with three-dimensional renderings of your plans that let you immediately see how the colors and textures will coordinate with and complement your home. You can rest assured knowing that you can get the latest in earth-friendly chemical technology and products that are made in the U.S.A. Space is what you make of it. Make it work. Make it last. For more information, you can call PremierGarage of Bay and East Bay at 650-286-9676 or visit www.bayareagarageflooring.com Lic #894280

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exteriorslandscaping

ouTdoor sPaCe Too hoT To handle? add some shade on demand with a louvered roof system

VENTED & SHADED

T

SOLID & PROTECTED

oo often patios and decks take the brunt of the summer sun and we avoid using them between sunup and sundown because the heat and sunlight make them simply miserable. Traditional patio covers such as Pergolas, solid panel roofs, and retractable awnings help ease this problem, but they each come with a compromise. Pergolas offer no weather protection, solid roofs make home interiors dark and gloomy, and retractable awnings are useless during strong wind.

However, there is a solution. Adjustable louvered roof systems give you the best of all worlds. You can enjoy your outdoor living spaces at a temperature and light level that’s comfortable all year-round.

Louvered roof systems have many advantages over traditional shade options. They withstand the elements all year long with no maintenance, offer shade or sunlight on demand, and are waterproof when closed. Most importantly, louvered roof systems are

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OPEN & SUNNY

versatile enough to accommodate any architectural style. Louvers are typically stocked in white and tan with custom colors available to suit your specific design needs. The system also has the ability to resist strong winds and severe weather conditions, making them a once in a lifetime purchase.

A louvered roof system not only improves your deck, patio, and outdoor areas, they also help inside too. They block the sun’s powerful rays, protecting expensive window coverings, carpet, and furniture from fading and damage. Your home’s exterior will also be protected from solar heat gain, reducing your summer cooling costs.

Additionally, all systems are solar powered for the ultimate in ease of operation with no associated operational energy costs.

For more information about designing your louvered roof system, you can call Screen Solutions for a free estimate at 408-374-8156 or visit their website at www.screensolutionsonline.com AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2015 • BAY LIVING

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Curb Appeal beautifully done hardscape and landscape can add some serious curb appeal to your home, increasing your home’s resale value by more than 10%. Paver stones for your driveway, steps, walls, or columns are an attractive and functional way to achieve this type of upgrade.

Pavers offer a huge variety of design possibilities with endless varieties of colors, shapes, and patterns, not to mention, they are also extremely durable. In fact, there are some paver stone roads built in ancient Rome that are still in use today. Paver stones can endure more pounds per square inch of pressure before cracking and can withstand dramatic shifts in temperature and humidity with less chipping, splitting, or buckling.

Repairs are also simple and less expensive than other surfaces.

There are many features that can be rejuvenated with pavers in order to increase your home’s curb appeal. The driveway is usually the first thing people see when they pull up to your home.

Pavers add aesthetic appeal that makes a statement and lets your neighbors know that your home is something special.

To achieve the ultimate upgrade in curb appeal, be sure to complement your new pavers with accessories such

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as colorful planter boxes, synthetic grass, and lush perennial plants such as hydrangeas and rhododendron.

When it comes to your entryway, paver walkways not only look appealing, they also provide easier access for guests who park on the street. You can even try adding a paver retaining wall in the front of your home, or paver pillars and columns for some added style.

Black Diamond Paver Stones & Landscape, Inc. has a 27-year warranty on installation and a lifetime warranty on the pavers, and can help you complete your curb appeal project. Their experts can help make your dreamscape a reality. For more information, you can visit www.BlackDiamondLandscape.com, or to make an appointment, you can call 408-329-9508 in the South Bay, or 650-539-4532 in San Francisco or the Peninsula.

ONLINE AT BAYLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

exteriorslandscaping

Evict Termites Without Leaving Your Home

T

ermites are among the most destructive pests in the United States, causing property damage to 600,000 homeowners each year. Although you have no choice when the termites move into your home, you have many different choices once you discover them. Twenty years ago homeowners didn’t have many choices, and tent fumigation was the standard extermination method for termites. This outdated method entails moving out of your home for three and a half days while a dangerous amount of toxic gas is pumped into your home. Homeowners who choose tent fumigation are forced to pay for three days worth of lodging, dining and pet boarding, as well as pack or discard all the food and medicine in their home. Not only is tent fumigation incredibly inconvenient, it also leaves a huge footprint on the environment.

The chemicals used for fumigation have been identified by the California Air Resources Board as Toxic Air Contaminants, and have a harmful and long-lasting impact on the ozone layer. Fortunately there is an affordable, eco-friendly and effective alternative that won’t displace you from your home.

XT-2000 Orange Oil® Plus is a revolutionary, scientifically proven product used by IPM companies to control termites. This innovative formula is 95% pure orange oil, a natural termite pesticide made from pressed and distilled orange rinds. With orange oil, you get rid of your termites with the same guaranteed results as fumigation while still enjoying the comforts of home.

Trained technicians come to your home and perform a thorough inspection to detect the termite colonies. Using a high-tech optical scope, the technician can determine the extent to the infestation and inject orange oil directly into the infested wood members, killing the termites on contact. The fumes also act as a neurotoxin to the termites, creating a pleasant orange fragrance that humans smell without any effect. A remarkable property of orange oil is its ability to wick

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through wood, traveling through the porous cells in all directions.

Therefore, orange oil not only treats the areas into which it was injected, but will soak into surrounding areas providing a superior termite protection.

For more information on XT-2000 Orange Oil® Plus, or to find a certified Pest Control operator, you can call (866) 870-8485. XT-2000 has been in business since 2004, and they have treated over half a million structures, including homes, apartments, schools, commercial buildings, and more. Orange Oil Plus is 95% pure orange oil— beware of imposter products that contain only trace amounts of orange oil but also contain hazardous petroleum distillates. XT-2000 Orange OIl professionals are certified XT-2000 Orange Oil experts. They go through a required vigorous training program and have annual training updates. Very few pest control products are as vigorously controlled, so when looking for a pest control professional be sure they are a Certified XT-2000 affiliate by visiting their website at www.xt2000.com ONLINE AT BAYLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

healthbeautyfitness

Reshape Your Body in 20 Minutes!

By John Colman

When Diane Rand reached age 50, she got concerned that her weight was slowly creeping higher and her clothes were feeling too tight. As a practicing physician in San Diego, she knew the diagnosis. “Your muscles atrophy as you age, and this slows down the metabolism,” says Rand. “I knew it would keep getting worse if I didn’t correct it.” The antidote?

Effective weight training. But, she’d never lifted weights before. Plus, her fulltime job as a physician as well as her family life left little time in her schedule for exercise.

Fortunately, Diane read an article about “slow-motion” strength training, a revolutionary new exercise method promising a firmer, stronger, more shapely body from just two 20-minute training sessions per week. Even though the time efficiency and results sounded almost too good to be true, she decided to enroll with a personal trainer at The Perfect Workout, a local company with dozens of private fitness studios specializing in this unique approach.

Right away she noticed immediate increases in her muscle tone and energy.

After several months she’d also dropped one to two clothing sizes and was fitting into clothes which used to be too small.

“My trainer pushes me in a safe way, and I walk away feeling great after each session,” says Diane. “This is the wave of the future.”

Lean Muscles—The Key To Reshaping Your Body The Perfect Workout’s trainers encourage clients to build lean muscle tissue, which increases the body’s metabolism, burning extra calories even while you’re sleeping. Many people—especially women—have a fear of “bulking up” like a

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Physician Diane Rand tones her arms as part of her 20-minute training session in San Diego.

bodybuilder if they were to start strength training. In reality, if you’re older than 25, it’s much more likely that too little muscle is the problem rather than too much muscle. In their book Biomarkers: The 10 Keys to Prolonging Vitality , William Evans, Ph.D., and Irwin Rosenberg, M.D., show the research demonstrating that adults who don’t strength train lose an average of a half pound of lean muscle tissue each year starting at age 25.

As an example, a typical 55-year-old woman will have 15 pounds less lean muscle (and significantly more fat) than what she had at age 25. Muscle takes up less space than fat, so this typical

55-year-old woman has arms and thighs that are softer and less firm, wears a larger clothing size, and has a slower metabolism that burns fewer calories each day.

Effective strength training changes all of this. It increases your body’s metabolism, causing you to burn more fat and calories all day long. Strength training reshapes and tones your legs and arms.

And since muscle takes up 20% less space than fat, adding muscle and losing fat will make your body firmer, smaller, and more shapely. A fit 140-pound person can wear clothes several sizes smaller than an out of shape 140-pound person.

ONLINE AT BAYLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

healthbeautyfitness How Can Slow-Motion Strength Training Work So Quickly?

Slow-motion strength training involves brief and demanding workouts to get great results. The basic concept? Lift relatively heavy weights excruciatingly slowly (10 seconds to lift, another 10 seconds to lower) for as many repetitions as you can until you’re unable to move the weights anymore.

And when you learn to challenge your muscles as deeply as a skilled trainer can teach, it’s impossible to workout much longer than 20 minutes, even if you try. Dr. Philip Alexander, physician and faculty member at Texas A&M University’s College of Medicine, explains that it’s the intensity of exercise that stimulates greatest changes. “A slower repetition loads the muscles more effectively and efficiently. It’s harder!” exclaims Alexander. “That’s why it stimulates such a great total response from the body.”

Dr. Alexander has tracked hundreds of subjects using slow-motion strength training, noting significant improvements in muscular strength, HDL cholesterol profiles, bone density, and glucose tolerance. Other research adds more supporting data. Two separate studies by Wayne Westcott, Ph.D., and one study by Ellington Darden, Ph.D., demonstrate that slow-motion strength training produces 50% to 59% faster improvements than regular weight training. And because the repetitions are harder, each training session must be limited to 20 minutes—making this exercise method quite time efficient.

In 3 months Justin Brunette dropped 4 inches from his waist and lowered his body fat percentage by 6.4% with effective nutrition and weekly 20-minute training sessions at The Perfect Workout.

Joyce Reclaims Her Youthful Figure 54-year-old Joyce Magnuson had always been slim and slender when she was younger. But in her mid 40s, life’s stresses caught up with her and she began gaining weight. “During the next few years, I kept getting heavier, until I was thoroughly broken and disgusted with myself,” says Joyce.

Fortunately, she happened to read an article about slow-motion strength training and how it would reshape her body with just two 20-minute training sessions per week. The effectiveness of the method made sense to Joyce, and she decided to enroll with a personal trainer at The Perfect Workout.

ONLINE AT BAYLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

In 3 months Laura Retana Shelp lost 23.4 pounds and 10½ inches off her waist with improved nutrition and two 20-minute training sessions a week at The Perfect Workout.

After five months of combining an effective nutrition plan with two 20minute training sessions each week, not only had she gotten stronger, she’d lost 43 pounds and dropped from a size 16 to a size 10. She was also able to get completely off the blood pressure medications that she’d previously needed to take. She adds, “The perk is looking good in the current styles. Even Macy’s keeps me motivated to stay fit!”

The Perfect Workout has dozens of private studios throughout the United States that specialize in one-on-one personal training with the slow-motion strength training method, including these Bay Area locations: San Mateo (650) 513-2747, Menlo Park (650) 300-4308, Sunnyvale (408) 9121387, Walnut Creek (925) 357-9704, Danville (925) 395-4891, Oakland (510) 254-3763 and Southwest San Jose (408) 899-5812. www.ThePerfectWorkout.com AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2015 • BAY LIVING

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