Bay Living Magazine June/July 2015

BayLiving

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 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 bi-monthly 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.

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BAY LIVING Contents

A ResOuRCe guIde seRvIng sILICOn vALLey, THe PenInsuLA & sAn fRAnCIsCO • vOL XXXvI • nO. 3 • even june/juLy 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 - 24 Home Fashion

40 - 48 Products & Services

More Than Just A Sofa Bed–The Comfort Sleeper™ Is A Marvel Of Modern Engineering Area Rugs To Enhance Your Décor Create A Bold First Impression Get Your Home Ready For Summer–Five Summer Spruce-Ups For A Warmer Season Simplify Your Life By Organizing Your Home The Classic Beauty Of Carpet And Hardwood Floors Furniture That Delivers Style, Comfort And Support Why Reupholster?

Do You Want Your Woodwork To Look Beautiful Again?

Don’t Be Left In The Dark When The Power Goes Out Your Garage, Your Oasis–Start Enjoying It Today!

Save Energy, Space, And Water–Improve Your Life By Going Tankless When It Comes To Your Cooling And Heating System Should You Repair Or Replace?

Travel Effortlessly From Floor To Floor. Discover The Convenience Of A Custom Home Elevator Keeping It Cool–Is Your Wine Being Stored Properly?

Open Up Your View With Retractable Screen Doors Add An Attractive Visual Touch With Custom Iron Doors

26 Home Automation & Theater Keep The Equipment Out Of Sight For A Seamlessly Elegant Home

28 - 35 Kitchen & Bath AGA Marvel–Luxury Cooking And Refrigeration For Iconic Kitchen Living How To Get The Most Out Of Your Home Remodel Experience What Is The Most Used Appliance In The Kitchen? Introducing The ROHL® Water Appliance™ Solution Custom Built Glass Shower Enclosures–Form And Function Vessel Hammock Bathtub Takes Stylish Relaxation To A New Level

36 - 38 Remodeling Looking For Some Inspiration? Masonry Offers Unlimited Design Possibilities A Glance Inside A Home Remodel

50 - 62 Exteriors & Landscaping Custom Outdoor Cabinetry–Elegant And Functional 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 Professional Barbeque Cleaning A Revolutionary And Unique Shade System Your Own Unique Piece Of Living Art: Sculpted Olive Trees Enjoy Your Yard, Save Water, And Money With A New Outdoor Environment Evict Termites Without Leaving Your Home

64 - 65 Health Beauty and Fitness Reshape Your Body In 20 Minutes!

Your home should be a true reflection of you, and a designer should have the ability to coordinate all of the many parts of an interior project in order to bring your vision into reality. Like the room featured on the cover, fresh design and interior renovation should make your living space both beautiful and accessible.

Artistic Designs for Living (ADL) adheres to high quality design standards and delivers each project with a focus on scope, schedule, and budget. For more information, you can call them at 415-567-0602 or visit www.adlsf.com. Cover Photography ©2014Philipharvey.com

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

JUNE/JULY 2015 • BAY LIVING

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homefashion

A R

rea ugs to Enhance Your Décor

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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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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

ith the warmer season approaching, sweep away those winter cobwebs and refresh your home with a few summer spruce-ups. While some may get overwhelmed with the daunting task of a major cleaning, try these easy tips from Sally Morse, Director of Creative Services at Hunter Douglas, to create a brighter, lighter, more organized home.

1. Clear Away. If cleaning and clearing away the clutter seems overwhelming, Morse has one simple trick to calm the nerves. “Try setting the kitchen timer for 15 minutes per area, like the bedroom closet, pantry or foyer. Telling yourself you’re going to de-clutter the home in one weekend sounds draining,” she says. “Rather, split up the tasks into smaller ones so you stay focused and don’t get lost in the process.” Make a list of all the areas you have to organize and space it out over a few days.

2. Welcome in Summertime Light. One impactful décor change that can easily be made is to update your window treatments. The right window fashions in your home will not only look stylish and beautifully filter light for a glowing room, but also provide a host of practical benefits such as energy-efficiency, UV-protection, sound absorption and more. One of the many suitable options is Hunter Douglas Silhouette® window shadings, which feature soft fabric vanes that rotate for variable light control and privacy that are suspended between two sheer facings to diffuse incoming light and preserve the view.

3. Bring Nature In. As Mother Earth comes to life again it’s a great time to bring that life indoors with easy-to-maintain plants and flowers.

Try the cast-iron Japanese perennial, one of the toughest species available.

Nearly indestructible, it withstands low light, low humidity and a wide range of temperatures. Also, try adding pastel bouquets of lilac, forsythia and narcissus to spread a cheerful dose of color around the home.

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4. Lemony Fresh. Appeal to all five senses with this year’s summer updates. After your initial scrub and, sorting and clearing of clutter, extend that fresh scent by adding a lemon-scented diffuser. You can, of course, easily purchase one, but for a fun DIY project, try creating a citrus diffuser at home.

5. Lighter Linens. For one summer refresher that goes a long way, try brightening up your home with lighter fabrics. This update can awaken nearly every room from the living room, bedroom and bathroom to the kitchen. Morse advises also bringing a soft texture to the window by opting for energy-saving Hunter Douglas Duette® Architella® honeycomb shades.

These shades offer dozens of color and design choices for a range of highdesign possibilities with fabrics that are gentle to the touch as well.

With a little work and a few additions, you can happily welcome in the new season with a clean, orderly, beautiful home.

To see a variety of different Hunter Douglas products, you can visit PKS Interiors, an authorized Hunter Douglas Showcase Dealer located at 101 E. El Camino Real in Sunnyvale, 408-738-9183 or 650-948-4162. www.pksinteriors.net. Or you can also visit Rebarts Interiors, an authorized Hunter Douglas Window Fashions Gallery showroom located at 247 California Drive in Burlingame and 990 Industrial Road Ste. 106 in San Carlos, 650-348-1268 or 650-508-8518. www.rebarts.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 hether you’re considering a major remodeling project or simply want to update a room, changing your flooring is an easy way to make a dramatic change. Offering timeless style, carpet and hardwood are both ideal choices for just about any area of the home.

When it comes to carpet, don’t simply choose an appealing color—always consider the carpet’s fibers and construction, as well as your lifestyle before making a decision. Visual texture in carpet increases the perception of quality and value, and offers a striking contrast to smoother elements, such as furniture surfaces, walls, and counters. Additionally, new stain- and soil-resistant technologies make lighter colored carpet easier to clean, broadening your decorating options.

When selecting a hardwood floor, there are many aspects to consider. This includes selecting from a wide range of species of wood, different styles, a range of hardness and scratch resistance, and choices from entry-level to upper-end handscraped and custom woods. One of the desirable features of hardwood flooring is the relative ease of maintenance—typically, a simple sweeping or dusting will restore beauty to the floor. Finally, along with being durable and practical, hardwood floors are an environmentally friendly and renewable product.

For more information about carpet, hardwood, or other flooring choices, PKS Interiors has been serving the Bay Area for over 30 years and is an exceptional resource for your home’s interior décor needs. Truly a one-stopshop, PKS offers the design and sales of flooring, window coverings, and cabinets, along with a huge selection of products. For more information, you can call them at 408-738-9183 or 650-948-4162. www.pksinteriors.net.

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homefashion

f you are looking for furniture that offers both comfort and style, IMG and Fjords® are two Norwegian furniture manufacturers that redefine how comfort collaborates with both quality and unsurpassed value. From reclining chairs to reclining sofas and everything in between, you will be incredibly pleased with the passion for exquisite design and comfort found in each and every piece.

IMG has a passion to engineer and design furniture that delivers worldleading comfort and back-saving ergonomic support. Whether you want a flexible chair that moves with your body or are seeking total stability, the vast selection of IMG recliners and chairs cover it all. Designed from the inside out, IMG Relaxer seating features ColdCured Molded Foam, the technology for the ultimate in body supportive comfort.

Reclining IMG sofas are a unique and flexible motion sofa system that provides you with endless combinations.

Allowing you to tailor each configuration to your specific needs, the Modular Seating program is a complete system that includes a sofa, love seat, chairs, and home theatre seating. With a wide range of complimentary products and accessories, including custom leather covers available in numerous colors, all IMG furniture can be integrated seamlessly with any décor.

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With knowledge about needs for rest and movement, as well as the incorporation of modern technology, Fjords designs chairs that will improve your everyday life.

Fjords’ relaxers have unique comfortable properties in all positions—continuous back adjustment, 360-degree rotation, an integrated footrest, and even a comfortable rocking function.

Genuine Fjords leather recliners feature an Active Release System, which is an integrated mechanism that provides quality support for the neck. It can be adjusted with a single movement to optimize the sitting experience. An ergonomically designed chair, continuous support and comfort help to prevent your legs and back from getting tired.

From the Scandic high-back sofa, which provides added lumbar support and an adjustable headrest, to the Contura series that combines Scandinavian design with NASA science to promote the zero-gravity position so that your body can break free of the stress of gravity, Fjords furniture offers a health-focused sitting solution for everyone.

Avetex Furniture has been in the same location for 14 years, offering a wide selection of custom sofas, chairs, lounges, benches, beds, and much more. Avetex works closely with interior designers, and provides free delivery and installation in the Bay Area. You can visit their showroom to see IMG and Fjords products on display. Most models by IMG and Fjords are usually in stock and available in two-to-three colors. To see models or for a free design consultation (in-store only), you can visit Avetex at 6114/6101 Geary Blvd. (25th Ave.) in San Francisco, open Monday - Saturday 10–6 and Sunday 12-4. You can also call them at 415-831-6529 or visit their website at www.avetexfurniture.com.

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homefashion

Why

Reupholster?

f your old sofa looks as though it’s on its last legs, don’t be too quick to bundle it out of the house. Resourceful homeowners are discovering that many old pieces have a value you can’t buy today. And they are restoring them through reupholstery. The economics of reupholstery works for them, too. For dollars and cents, it can be one of today’s best buys.

The value is in the frame.

If your old sofa (or chair) has a good frame, it is well worth reupholstering. A frame is the essential element in the structure, and if it’s solid there’s no point going out and

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buying a new one. So, what is a good frame?

One that’s made of hardwood—oak or maple, for example. Hardwood is strong and has longevity. A clue is its weight—hardwood is strong. That’s why furniture sales people will often lift up one end of a sofa when showing it to a customer. They are demonstrating the frame’s weight. And the frame is what your upholsterer can check out.

The art of reupholstery.

Building on your old frame (where you save big dollars,) the upholsterer reties the springs, puts in new webbing, all new padding and filling, and totally recreates the

sofa. This is all handwork, involving a high order of skills. What you get back is a piece of furniture, in the class of a custom-made piece.

The fabric advantage.

A significant advantage in reupholstering is fabric selection. You choose from a panoramic range of colors and textures. You can find just about any fabric at any price, to fit any décor.

For more information, you can call Sterling Custom Upholstery at 650-961-8700, or visit their website at www.sterlingcustomupholstery.com

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homeautomation

Keep the Equipment Out of Sight For a Seamlessly Elegant Home

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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.

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 can even produce 3D, holographic, nuanced imaging if you are in the mood for some added ambiance.

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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.

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

aGa MarVeL—Luxury Cooking and refrigeration

For Iconic Kitchen Living

A

leading manufacturer of both luxury cooking and refrigeration brands, aGa MarVeL has a long reputation for iconic style, innovative engineering, and longevity.

aGa Iconic designs With Innovative Technology AGA is considered by high-end consumers and cooking enthusiasts alike to be one of the world’s best cooking experiences, offering quality construction, flexibility, and ultimate ease of use. Luxury appliance consumers also recognize Marvel as an industry leader that delivers innovative food preservation and refrigeration solutions—the benchmark for unrivaled craftsmanship, performance, and design.

AGA installed its first product nearly a century ago and continues to provide luxury ranges to suit a variety of lifestyles. Beneath the glossy enamel of every AGA beats the heart of quality cast iron, 70% of which is recycled. Deep within the AGA rests a unique temperature regulation system that heats each oven and hotplate at precise pre-set levels and the cast iron maximizes heat retention. This efficiency minimizes fuel consumption and creates optimal cooking conditions without the drying, direct heat used in traditional ranges.

The new AGA Dual Control ranges are everything you love about AGA, but with added flexibility and reduced running costs. Not only does the Dual Control range use the same indirect radiant heat as a traditional AGA, but each model embodies an energy-saving technology that makes it far more efficient.

Available in three-oven and five-oven models, the AGA Total Control features touchscreen controls for multi-function flexibility and a digital remote to program the oven to turn on and off at scheduled times. And for the first time, each oven and hotplate has its own heat source for even more efficiency and versatility.

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kitchen&bath

MarVeL World Class refrigeration Marvel is now introducing undercounter refrigeration products that feature efficiency improvements of up to 40% when compared to the prior generation. Marvel continues to expand its assortment of refrigerators, beverage centers, ice machines, and draft beer dispensers with more features and more models, all of which exceed current energy standards.

The all-new New Dynamic Cooling Technology™ features a thermal-efficient cabinet and door, offering superior temperature stability, faster cooling times, and speedy temperature recovery, even with frequent access. With a maximized interior volume and added full-width, cantilever shelves, you can store more with versatile capacity. The new 60/40 Split Convertible Shelf™ provides as many as three storage options within one shelf, and the MaxStore™ Utility Bin offers high capacity, clear-view storage on rollout guides.

All Marvel Professional models and Marvel panel-overlay models are specially designed with a soft-close integrated hinge, allowing for a truly integrated, zero clearance fit and a significant reduction in sound.

Additional features include Marvel Prime™ controls for precise, frost-free temperature management, audible alarms for door ajar, and high/low temperature to ensure all contents stay at an optimal temperature.

For more information about AGA MARVEL 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 ONLINE AT BAYLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

directed by ownership that assures perfection that translates to a top level of accountability, trust, and professionalism. Atherton is also proud to offer 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.

Offering programs for culinary, remodeling, fine home building, and smart home education, Enjoy Life allows you to both connect with Atherton’s products as well as provide a resource to make the right decisions about your home needs.

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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ome remodeling offers homeowners the perfect opportunity to transform the home they love into the home of their dreams. Whether you have the need for more living space, or want to upgrade your home environment in order to enhance your lifestyle and resale value of your home, a full-service design build company can partner with you to create a home that fits your needs and personal style.

Beginning a home remodeling project is a huge step. An experienced contractor can guide you through the decision-making process for comfortable, beautiful results on time and on budget.

Consider how the home remodeling process is going to affect your lifestyle. Maybe it’s time for that new kitchen? The focal point of most homes, a new or updated a kitchen can increase functionality, aesthetic appeal and your home’s value. Walk through your home and address the areas to be renovated and how it affects day-to-day livability.

Also, be sure to think about your family’s future needs. Will your family be growing or changing? If so, a basement provides you with so much opportunity for expansion. You can double your living space—whether you need additional bedrooms, a game room, an office, or even a wine cellar. This is both a quick and economical transformation because it adds little disruption to your day.

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Consider the potential of all lifestyle enhancements, new bathrooms, new decks and porches that increase outdoor living spaces to energy-efficient windows and siding. Simple upgrades might be the perfect solution for your home, from new carpentry and molding to upgraded trim.

However, no matter what you decide on, the most crucial part of the process is to hire a dependable company that is both experienced and equipped to handle all aspects of your home remodel. Here are some helpful aspects to consider before signing any contracts.

Experience. A company and their craftsman should have plenty of experience and be willing to offer any advice to ensure that your project turns out exactly how you want it. They should also be proud to offer a list of references with contact information so that you can check.

Integrity. A company’s proposal should outline the details of the project clearly and completely so that you understand all aspects and nothing surprises you later down the road. The priority should be to complete your project on time, on budget, and all work should be backed up with a warranty.

Process. A pre-construction walkthrough should occur before any demolition starts to ensure that everyone is on the same page and no questions go unanswered. When the project gets started, a company should always arrive on (or before) the scheduled time. Finally, all craftsmen should be clean, courteous and background-checked.

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

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

Introducing The ROHL® Water Appliance™ Solution

D

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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Form and Function

A

shower is a dominant feature in any bathroom. With the addition of clear frameless doors, this area quickly transforms from an average aspect to a stunning focal point. A wise investment, custom glass showers can bring beauty to your bathroom for years to come.

Nearly invisible, a clear frameless glass shower door limits the visual barriers, provides a flowing seamless look, and has the effect of making the area seem more open and roomy. A frameless shower also complements its surrounding environment, drawing attention to the meticulous tile work and other artistic elements of your bathroom.

Frameless glass enclosures are fully customized to your space and taste, whether you prefer something more traditional, or are drawn to an ultra-modern and sleek look. There are a myriad of options to choose from, from custom sandblasted designs to numerous glass patterns. You can even create an enclosure that is as frameless as possible with durable minimalist hardware. Unique hardware allows the door to swing both out and in.

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CB Showers (the CB stands for “custom built”) specializes in high-end glass shower enclosures tailored for any design and space. A highly trained, dedicated installation team supports the new owner, Aristotelis “Telly” Sionides, and company founder and vice president, Bruce Downs. Together, they continue to build on the company’s sterling 28-year reputation for strong customer service, forward-thinking design and top-notch materials and products. CB Showers also offers innovative Diamon-Fusion® that substantially reduces the time and effort needed to maintain your glass enclosure, ensuring your shower will stay gorgeous for many years.

Diamon-Fusion is a unique nanotechnology process that seals the “pores” in the glass, so that it is protected from the harmful deposits found in water. For more information, you can visit CB Showers’ expansive 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

h

aMMoCk

B

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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LookInG for soMe InsPIraTIon?

Masonry offers unlimited design Possibilities

T

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.

However, it’s all too common for both homeowners and professionals to feel unsure about which materials should be used where. Because there are so many different variations when it comes to masonry materials, it can be a challenge to conceptualize the preferable outcome.

Before starting your masonry project, you should become familiar with the available products and their benefits.

Stone is finding its way inside the home because it provides a sense of permanence and calmness. Both natural stone and brick are fabulous for just about any area because they are classic, timeless, and built to last.

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homeremodeling

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. Flagstone, limestone, 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.

Another example is stone veneer, which offers the beauty of real stone, but its thinner profile 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, fireplaces and much more.

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, ideas and 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 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, making 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 staff member. PBM is dedicated to serving customers and finding materials for any home and budget. Visit their expansive showroom at 2490 Charleston Road in Mountain View, open Tuesday–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, open Monday–Friday. For more information, you can call them at 877-282-0522 or visit www.pbm1923.com.

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JUNE/JULY 2015 • BAY LIVING

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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 408-323-5300 (please mention 615) for a free consultation.

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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

.......

.................

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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products&services

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!

n

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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products&services

Save Energy, Space, and Water—

W

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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C

H S

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

D

oes it seem as though your air conditioning doesn’t work as efficiently as it used to? With the summer months approaching, 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 TRAVEL EFFORTLESSLY FROM FLOOR TO FLOOR

Discover the Convenience of a Custom Home Elevator

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he closer homeowners look at residential elevators, the more they realize the value of putting one into their own home. Not only does having an elevator eliminate the use of the stairs when traveling to different levels of the house, it is also beneficial to your long-term home value.

If you are looking for increased luxury and affluence in your living spaces, then a residential elevator is a must-have accessory. Moving far beyond an easy access solution for those with mobility challenges, an EECO Home elevator is also a luxurious upgrade that adds an increasingly desirable feature to any dĂŠcor. Even tedious daily tasks such as moving around groceries, laundry, furniture, children, and luggage are made easy.

Each elevator can be custom tailored based on your needs and how the home was built, allowing you to create a unique feature that accentuates your home. Choose materials and fixtures for your home elevator to create a

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visually stunning showpiece. You can choose from different models, and customize just about everything, including the interior and exterior finish, fixture design, handrails, telephone options, lighting, gates, and much more.

All EECO Home elevator models are designed to provide a smooth, quiet ride for your enjoyment. They are also equipped with the latest safety devices, such as backup systems, so that you can rest assured that your elevator has met strict safety standards. All elevators are capable of integrating security access systems, giving you control of who can or cannot use your elevator. Engineered to use the least amount of power possible, elevators are also extremely energy efficient and utilize high efficiency motors and components. Utilizing recycled materials whenever possible, as well as vegetable based, biodegradable hydraulic oil, EECO Home elevators are also environmentally friendly.

Established in 1946, Elevator Equipment Corporation has been a leading supplier of products to the elevator industry, now offering homeowners the opportunity to purchase direct from the manufacturer. For more information, you can call them at 888-720-6210, visit www.eecohome.com, or email them at eecohome@eecomail.com.

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products&services

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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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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products&services Add an Attractive Visual Touch

WITH CUSTOM IRON DOORS

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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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exteriorslandscaping

Custom Outdoor Cabinetry

ELEGANT AND FUNCTIONAL utdoor kitchens have evolved drastically from the basic barbecue island. Innovative cabinetry solutions from Brown Jordan® Outdoor Kitchens provide the freedom to custom design unique outdoor living areas, creating outdoor entertainment showplaces that will add value to any home.

Designed to blend with the surrounding landscape, complement Brown Jordan furniture, or continue the indoor theme to the outdoors, Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens are fully customizable 100% stainless steel cabinets manufactured in the U.S.A. The collection offers powder coated finishes in exclusive designer colors, realistic faux wood finishes, metallic hues, custom textures, and a variety of exclusive door styles, providing almost limitless design possibilities.

These features rival the latest innovations of indoor cabinet lines and

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include concealed hardware, trash pullouts, fixed and sliding shelves, soft-close, self-close drawers, and leveling legs. The option to apply designer powder coat finishes adds protection to the stainless, allowing it to withstand any climate for a virtually maintenance-free investment.

Cabinets are designed to fit all major outdoor appliances; grills, social cookers, side burners, smokers, pizza ovens, bars, beverage centers, and more. If you are looking for a little extra touch of glitz and glamour, insert options are available for the cabinet doors, including faux wood grains, sea glass or textured metals that can be left in true stainless form or powder coated with a designer finish.

All cabinets come with a lifetime warranty, and all powder coated finishes come with a seven-year warranty.

Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens meet the needs of today’s homeowners, architects, designers, builders, hotels, and resorts that seek cabinetry to fit the unique décor and style of an outdoor living environment.

For more information, you can call them at 855-839-5063, visit their website at www.brownjordanoutdoorkitchens.com/BayLiving, or email info@brownjordanoutdoorkitchens.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.

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retractable awning

Pergola awning

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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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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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exteriorslandscaping

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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exteriorslandscaping A Revolutionary and

Unique Shade System ustom-made canopies have their perks, however they can also become an additional source of stress. For example, to fit properly, they require precise pre-measurement, fabric and color selection, weeks of fabrication and finally installation. Once installed the custom canopies can’t be modified and any repairs (if possible) require a trip back to Canopy Retracted the shop.

Now, there is an innovative new product on the market that provides homeowners with a retractable shade system that is infinitely versatile, customizable, and adaptable. Infinity Canopy is a modular You can also add vertical panels to either or slide on wire canopy composed of individual shade panels that are both ends for additional shade and privacy. connected together by a marine grade stainless steel and aluminum Unlike traditional shade products, Infinity Canopy can be modified even parts. It can be installed on pergolas or between two opposing structures. The after it is assembled and installed. You can add or remove sections and shade panels are available in a variety of colors and made of the highest quality panels to increase or decrease the width and length of the canopy, outdoor fabrics including Phifertex® and Sunbrella® that are resistant to water, change the canopy’s color and design, replace damaged sections with fire, mold, fading and can last five-to-ten years. They can be ordered in one or replacement parts and panels, and even remove the entire canopy or the multiple colors and placed in different panels for cleaning and winterization, in just minutes. configurations to create unique designs Infinity Canopy was designed with the goal to make the beautiful that are simply not possible by any other slide-on wire canopy style available to homeowners in an infinitely versashade system for those ever-changing tile and adaptable system. If you are ready to enhance your outdoor space tastes, styles and needs. and get the most out of your investment, you can call Infinity Canopy at You can lock individual panels in 844-4-CANOPY (844-422-6679), or visit them at www.infinitycanopy.com. place, or remove panels for open space.

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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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mproving your outdoor environment in California can be like adding another room to your living space. You can create an entirely new area to entertain friends and family, or even gain a serene place where you can escape to relax and get in touch with nature. In the end, an upgraded yard will increase your usable space, and add more than 10% to your home value.

One of the best ways to increase the overall beauty of both a front and back yard is with paver stones. Aside from the aesthetic appeal, pavers can eliminate existing drainage problems and add stability to any surface. Most people are not aware of the fact that pavers are stronger than concrete, making them a better choice to withstand the high-traffic activity that occurs on a driveway. Not only will a driveway or patio upgraded with pavers increase your home’s curb appeal, but this attractive solution will outlast and outperform your expectations.

To create the outdoor “great room” effect, add a pergola over beautiful paver stones for shade, then combined with an inviting fireplace or fire pit. Create an even more unique space with a stunning outdoor kitchen or barbeque island, overlooking your newly customized landscape with efficient irrigation and LED lighting that will save you money.

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Another way to save money on maintenance and water costs is through the new varieties of beautiful waterless synthetic lawn and putting greens. Create a beautiful, low maintenance garden with the use of synthetic lawn and low water consumption plants. You can even benefit from City & Water Company rebates, and special financing through California’s new Water Conservation Program, where your synthetic lawn and drought resistant plants/pavers are financed through a tax-deductible payment on your property taxes.

Black Diamond Paver Stones & Landscape, Inc. can do whatever it takes to create the unique outdoor living space of your dreams. Their design/build team can give you inspirational design ideas, and build your dreamscape at the best quality and value. For more information, you can call them at 408-329-9508 or 650-539-4532, or you can visit their website at www.BlackDiamondLandscape.com.

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exteriorslandscaping

Evict Termites Without Leaving Your Home

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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 JUNE/JULY 2015 • BAY LIVING

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