FineHomes Regina Winter 2011

Member Regina & Region Home Builders’ Association

REGINA WINTER 2011/2012

Q & A with Steven and Chris

KEN BEATTIE Canada’s Favourite Gardener

MEREDITH HERON Plan Ahead

TRENDS FOR 2012 What’s Hot

HAPPILY EVER AFTER Habitat Family Moves In

THE MANY FACES OF BROOKS FINDLAY Realty Done Differently

Budget Blinds is Regina and Surrounding Area’s #1 choice for all your window covering needs!

Budget Blinds is North America’s largest window covering company, which provides the competitive edge on products and buying power.

Locally owned and operated, Leanne Fisher is proud to call Saskatchewan home again after moving to Alberta for college 13 years ago! “If you ask any of our staff why we do what we do...they will all answer...because we get to meet so many great people”! Our staff makes the difference! In addition to providing customers with education about each product at a competitive price – our staff truly cares about facilitating a fun, professional in-home atmosphere to make the window covering process easy! If it’s having product air shipped and installing at 11 p.m. on a Friday night to prepare for a wedding the following day, or aiding an elder customer with cleaning her windows while we’re up on the ladder – we are different – we go the extra mile!

534 University Park Drive, Regina, Sk. e-mail: reginaadmin@yourbudgetblinds.ca www.budgetblinds.com

We are out to change how you buy window coverings! Shop where your windows are. We come to you! Explore fabrics, materials, choices and features from hundreds of product styles and colors. We measure so you get the perfect fit, and then provide professional installation to ensure a beautiful view!

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Finding the home of your dreams and making it yours was the hard part.

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302 University Park Drive

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You’ve saved enough water to fill more than

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Keep up the green work.

For many more easy things you and your family can do, check out gogreensask.ca

FineHomes

REGINA

WITH FINE HOMES EDITOR THOM BARKER

never thought I would see the day that I found an interest in interior decorating. And I’m not entirely sure whether it’s because I’m starting to feel settled, or whether editing this magazine for more than a year has unseated some latent design tendency.

What I am fairly sure about is that the catalyst was my cousin Cyndi.

I had her and her husband over for after-dinner cocktails when Lorraine was out of town. Cyndi, who had never met Lorraine, said she wasn’t convinced I was even married because she didn’t see any “feminine touches” to our apartment’s décor.

Winter 2011/2012 VOLUME 2 ISSUE 4 www.finelifestyles.ca Editor Thom Barker editor@finelifestyles.ca

Associate Editor Quinn Bender quinn@finelifestyles.ca

Graphic Design and Layout Joni Gaudette joni@finelifestyles.ca

In-house Design Lori Gallagher lori@finelifestyles.ca Tracy Hahn tracyh@finelifestyles.ca

Cover Photography Now, it’s not so much that the décor was masculine—or as Cyndi put it, “bachelor pad.” It was more that it was just very minimalist (or non-existent). As I mentioned in the last issue of Fine Homes Regina, in which I talked about my drapes-hanging escapade, both Lorraine and I have lived a kind of nomadic existence for most of our adult lives. And, with her working up north, we just hadn’t really got around to our decor.

Determined, I faced the dilemma that I believe many people confront: of being a little overwhelmed about where to even start. Then I realized I had a treasure trove of knowledge that I’ve apparently accumulated through osmosis.

Thanks to some of our advertisers and columnists, the first thing I recognized was that establishing good decor doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing transformation. It’s amazing what you can do with a plant here, a piece of art there and some strategically-placed candles and knick knacks. I also bought a new set of elegant dishes, which, although not permanently on display, add a definite sense of homeyness when we use them.

When Lorraine arrived home, she added a few more little touches— a new set of quality towels for the bathroom and some material to enhance some of our hard surfaces.

Next on my agenda is lamps. For me, it was a bit of a revelation to learn how much emphasis designers put on lighting. When I talked to Candice Olson a few issues back, she said it is the most important consideration when decorating. In this issue’s Q&A with Steven and Chris, their number one “do” for home décor is layered lighting.

The only problem is, I am starting to see how decorating could become addictive. I find myself absent-mindedly leafing through magazines thinking, “oh, that would go nice there,” and, “I have to have one of those for that empty spot in the dining room.”

I guess that’s preferable to being accused of having an imaginary wife.

Kiriako Iatridis www.kiriako.ca

Photography Calvin Fehr www.calvinfehrphoto.com Shawn Fulton www.shawnfultonphotography.com John Morrell www.johnmorrellphotography.ca Dorothy Law www.everythingvisual.ca

Contributing Writers Amy Nelson-Mile Carter Haydu G.H. Lewmer Ken Beattie Mackenzie Brooks

Meredith Heron Ryan Holota Shell Busey Tobie Hainstock Trilby Henderson

Advertising Consultants Randy Glascock Brett Francis Brooke Watson Todd Elik

randyg@finelifestyles.ca brett@finelifestyles.ca brooke@finelifestyles.ca todd@finelifestyles.ca

Publishers Randy Liberet 540.3320 randy@finelifestyles.ca Wayne UnRuh 541.3365 wayne@finelifestyles.ca 3440 Balsam Grove Regina, Sk. S4V 2S4 Fine Homes Regina is published four times a year by Fine Lifestyles Regina, Ltd. We reserve the right to edit any materials chosen for publication including photographs. We reserve the right to reject or accept any article, photograph, image or advertisement.

All contents of Fine Lifestyles Regina, Ltd. publications are copyrighted 2011 with all rights reserved, except for original articles submitted to Fine Lifestyles Regina, where copyright resides with the author. No other part of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of Fine Lifestyles Regina Ltd. or its writers. The name Fine Homes Regina, its logo and material cannot be reproduced without the written consent of the publishers. The views and opinions expressed in the expert advice columns herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views and opinions of Fine Lifestyles Regina Ltd. or the companies it represents. The information contained herein is of a general nature and is not intended to address the circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Although we endeavour to provide accurate and timely information, there can be no guarantee that such information is accurate as of the date it is received or that it will continue to be accurate in the future.

No one should act upon such information without appropriate professional advice after a thorough examination of the particular situation.

Featured Contributors Photographers

Writers

Shawn Fulton

Amy Nelson-Mile

Shawn Fulton’s passion for photography began in high school with darkroom developing and printing techniques and evolved at the University of Regina while he was acquiring his BFA in film production. Since, Shawn has all but abandoned the darkroom for digital photography, but still likes to play with antique and Polaroid cameras at social events to give his “party photos” a timeless quality.

Amy Nelson-Mile is a non-fiction writer who writes corporate material and magazine articles. She has published hundreds of articles in various magazines and newspapers on a wide variety of topics, including the arts, business, education, fashion, health, heritage, human interest, spirituality, and more. She is also a writing instructor, researcher, administrator, and energy worker. She has lived all her life on the Saskatchewan prairie and feels a deep connection to the land here. Her other passions are listening to music, reading, and spending time with her husband and animals.

Shawn has a remarkable talent for lighting, which he attributes to his extensive background in stage and film. His work as a director, cinematographer and animator has been screened at film festivals nationally and he was recently featured on the cover of Saskatchewan Filmpool’s Splice magazine.

www.amynelsonmile.net

Shawn lives in Regina’s Cathedral Village with his wife, Kendra, and their two children, Rosco and Suki. www.shawnfultonphotography.com

Dorothy Law

Trilby Henderson

Born and raised in Calgary, Alberta, Dorothy has always had a passion for the arts, so when the opportunity to attend the Visual Art & Design program at Vancouver Film School arose, she happily jumped on board.

Dorothy sees beauty in all people and her surroundings and is utterly fulfilled when she is able to capture that beauty with her camera. “Not many people enjoy having their photo taken, but getting that perfect shot of someone can completely change the way a person views themself, for the better,” she says. Having people feel great about themselves is what keeps Dorothy’s passion thriving. www.everythingvisual.ca

Trilby Henderson completed her BA in Journalism at the University of Regina in 2005. She spent the next several years working in corporate communications and media relations, where she mastered the art of business writing. In 2009, Henderson embarked on a full-time freelance writing career by launching Captive Ink Freelance Writing and Editing Services.

Henderson’s work has been featured in several magazines, newspapers and trade publications. She also provides writing and editing services to businesses and individuals to meet their specific needs, such as the development of a company newsletter or content for a website.

306-543-1566; www.captiveink.com

John Morrell

Ryan Holota

As a young child, John’s father introduced him to the world of photography. As he grew up on a farm, and often travelled to the city, he had the opportunity to see nature in a way that perhaps many other children did not. After he himself became a father, he began focusing on capturing those special moments and milestones of his daughters. He has currently widened his photo subjects to include sports events, pet photography, weddings, architecture and photo directories. What keeps John interested in photography is the people he meets.

Ryan Holota is a freelance writer and marketing consultant in Regina, SK. In addition to his work for Fine Homes and other magazines, Ryan works with businesses to help them improve their writing, marketing, and communications. Most importantly, he is a husband and father.

To learn more about Ryan, to read his blog, or to find his contact information, visit www.arholota.com. You can also find him on Twitter at @ryanholota.

www.jmorrell1.photobiz.com/cart FineHomes REGINA

7

What’sInside

45 13 70 29 FEATURE STORIES 13

Habitat Women Build Part III

23 Q& A with Steven and Chris 20 SHOW HOME LOCATOR MAP

29 Ken Beattie 45 Cover Story: Brooks Findlay, Realty Done Differently 70 Recipes 80 What’s Hot for 2012

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100 Shell Busey

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23 80 87

90 100

DEPARTMENTS 18 Homes and Properties 87 Condo Living 90 Design and Renovations

FineHomes REGINA

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EXPERTAdvice DREAM KITCHENS 10 reasons to hire a cleaning company

Sharla Shaw

Tidy Time Saver Professional Cleaning Service 1750 McAra St. Regina, Sk. 306.546.1505 sharlashaw@tidytimesaver.com www.tidytimesaver.com Let’s face it. No one enjoys housework. Yet we all place a lot of value in a tidy living area.

Maintaining the cleanliness of your home demands a lot of work—hundreds of hours per year—and with our busy family lives and careers taking up most of our spare time these days, the effort we put into cleaning feels more laborious than ever. There are countless reasons to hire a professional cleaner to do the work for you. Here are just 10.

Marital harmony – No fighting over who is going to clean the bathroom; no arguing over who is going to vacuum. A cleaning service is much less expensive than couples’ therapy.

More time to do the things you love It is time to take back the free time in your life. Imagine having three to five extra hours per week to spend on quality time with your children, take up a hobby or a sport, play an extra round of golf, or simply sit back and relax.

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The joy of coming home to a clean house –

A cleaning service can help you with your pets -

The day the cleaners come is the happiest day of the week. The anticipation of walking through the front door, setting down everything you have in your hands, and looking over your sparkling clean floors, countertops, and bathrooms is sure to put a smile on your face.

Your pets will love the day the cleaners come as much as you do. They love to get that extra bit of attention. The cleaners can also let them out for a little bit of fresh air while they are in your home cleaning.

Cleaning services are reliable – Have you ever asked a loved one to clean something, and they forgot? You do not want to become resentful toward a family member over an untidy area of the home.

Having a reliable cleaning service also means you are always ready for that unexpected guest.

Make your busy life easier – We are busy running our children to hockey, dance, soccer and other time-consuming activities. The demands placed on us by our careers rob us of the time we need to get the most out of life. A professional cleaner frees up hundreds of hours a year, to give you the time you need for yourself.

Having a cleaning company is convenient – Neither snow nor rain nor heat nor gloom of night stays these [cleaners] from the swift completion of their appointed rounds. You don’t need to think about them, they just show up as scheduled and get the job done.

Home security – Having cleaners come in while you are at work or while you are away adds a little more security to your home. If the cleaners sense that something isn’t quite right, they can notify you right away.

Areas you never thought of get cleaned – We rarely have time to thoroughly clean our homes – professional cleaners are trained to look for, and clean, areas you may not even think about. Although you may not see it, it is comforting to know that it has been cleaned.

100 Per cent satisfaction guaranteed.

Tidy Time Saver offers a 100 per cent satisfaction guarantee. If you aren’t completely happy with the job that has been done, it will be done again, no questions asked. It’s your home. You should be happy in it. FHR Sharla Shaw is the owner of Tidy Time Saver Professional Cleaning Service. Tidy Time Saver employs 14 highly trained, friendly, and courteous people who are eager to make your home sparkle. Together, they cleaned more than 10,000 homes in the past year.

TIDY TIME SAVER is a proud partner of

Bar-T Construction

specializing in new residential and commercial renovations

Bar-T Construction is a family-run business that has been serving Regina and Southern Saskatchewan since 1983. Please visit our showroom at 1150 Park Street to talk with our knowledgeable staff about the new and innovative and energy efficient exterior finishes available for your next project.

• Roofing

• Cultured Stone

• Vinyl Siding

• Soffits, Fascia , Eavestrough

• Cement Fibre Siding

• Decking – Weatherdek & Moistureshield

• Exterior Insulation

• Aluminum Railing

• Paper & Wire

• Vinyl Fencing

• Acrylic Stucco

• All-Weather Windows Dealer

• Dryvit Exterior Insulated Finish Systems

• Do-It-Yourself Packages Also Available

1150 Park Street | Regina, Sk. | 306.789.9777

Remember

Photos by Calvin Fehr

Greg, Gabrielle, Levi, Olivia and Alexis Panio in front of their new home.

A Birthday to

By Tobie Hainstock FineHomes REGINA

13

t was a beautiful September morning, the air was fresh and crisp and the smell of autumn teased my nostrils while the whispers and laughter of anticipation filled the air. As I stepped closer to 1019 Rae Street, I recalled the last time I visited and had the opportunity to speak with Greg Panio and his wonderful family. Today, I was pleased to see the lovely home which now replaces the once empty lot.

As officials, media, friends, family and future neighbours gathered, the excitement became infectious. The key presentation was now just moments away. The Panio family would soon be proud homeowners.

The ceremony was opened with welcome and introductions by the lady who originally brought my attention to the project, the Honourable Laura Ross, Minister responsible for Government Services. It was during the introduction of the family that Ross joyfully announced that it was the young twins’ birthday. Olivia and Alexis were now five years old and would get to celebrate it in their very own home.

It was clear that this was a very touching moment for the entire crowd. A round of “Happy Birthday” went out, followed by applause as the children twirled about

in their pretty dresses, just like the little princesses they are.

An opening prayer was said by Pastor Charles Kooger of Sonlight Christian Reform Church in Regina which was followed by a brief address from the Honourable June Draude, Minister responsible for Saskatchewan Housing Corporation.

“This Habitat for Humanity home is unique because the project was led by women,” stated Draude. “It is a wonderful opportunity to show just how successful we—men and women—can be when we work together. This investment is also an outstanding example of the Saskatchewan Advantage, of living in a province where potential is realized, dreams are fulfilled and people can have a home to call their own.”

Draude went on to say that it has been an honour for the women to build this home for this young man and his family.

She closed by adding, “Greg, you are a positive influence on your family and your community, all the best to you.”

His Worship Mayor Pat Fiacco took a moment to give his best wishes to the Panio family as well, stating that he feels a special connection with the organization and their builds. “My older brother Tony, received a Habitant for Humanity house,” he stated and went on to share that it was a turning point of positive changes in his bother’s life. Fiacco also announced that City Council will be providing Habitat for Humanity with five more lots for future build locations. He continued saying that because of the spirit of community, the City will provide up to $10,000 per door Hbitat for Humanity volunteers.

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on affordable housing for both rental and owned dwellings. Addressing the volunteers, Fiacco said: “To those of you who give a damn about families, thank you and God bless.”

Habitat for Humanity Regina Board Member, Paula Koch reminded everyone present of many advantages of home ownership stating that such a step forward changes a family’s present and future. She continued by stating that studies have shown that children do better in school and that there is more stability within a family that owns their own home.

After being presented with the keys to his new home, an emotional Panio expressed his sincere thanks to the many people involved in the project. To Dennis Coutts, Habitat for Humanity Regina CEO, Panio stated, “Through all the darkness, you were our light.” To the volunteers, Panio said how grateful he was for the example they were setting for his daughters, that they can do anything they put their minds to. To his mother, Panio thanked her for her support and for watching the children every Saturday while he was working on the house.

“I have about a thousand years of thank yous to give out,” he joked and closed by quoting Mark Twain:

“Kindness is the language which the deaf can hear and the blind can see.”

- Mark Twain This example of kindness is something that he and his family will remember and live by always, he said.

After Pastor Kooger said a prayer of blessing and presented the family with bibles, Minister Ross closed the ceremony stating, “This is what community is all about.”

Inside the comfortable open concept home was a buzz of enthusiasm and hope. Levi (12) graciously showed people around the four-bedroom, two-bathroom house and politely answered questions while Dad was busy shaking hands and talking to media. His three younger sisters danced about their new home happily. At one point Gabrielle (6) skipped over and greeted me. “Now, I can get used to this house,” she announced to me with a mix of pride and relief. Yes, I thought to myself, now you can get used to having a home of your own, a home that will be filled with memories of Thanksgivings, Christmases, sleepovers, movie nights and more. A home to live, cry, laugh, dream and grow in. FHR

Greg Panio and Habitat for Humanity representative.

For more information about Habitat for Humanity and their programs or to become a volunteer, call 306-522-9700 or check them out at www.habitatregina.ca.

Greg, Gabrielle, Levi, Olivia and Alexis Panio with volunteers.

FineHomes REGINA

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makes unwanted hair a thing of the past

By Amy Nelson-Mile.

Photos by Shawn Fulton

O

ne of the most recent advances in aesthetics is elõs™, the only technology that uses the combined energies of laser and bi-polar radio frequency to remove unwanted facial and body hair. jk Solutions Hair Studio provides this new alternative to shaving, waxing , plucking, or electrolysis.

Janice Kosteniuk is the owner/operator of jk Solutions Hair Studio. She says that elõs™ effectively and gently removes hair of many colours and types from all skin tones. “The treatment damages the hair follicle, and this disables the follicle’s ability to grow hair,” she explains. “As a result, over the course of several treatments, there is a permanent reduction in the amount of hair in that area.”

Kosteniuk says that with each treatment less hair grows back, and the hair that does come back is finer and lighter in colour.

“To get a satisfactory clearance, most people find that six to eight treatments are effective. However, medical and genetic conditions will play a role in the number of treatments necessary,” she says. “Some areas take longer too, such as men’s backs and chests, facial hair, lighter coloured hair, and hair grown as a result of hormonal changes. In these cases eight

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or more treatments are usually needed.”

energies used in elõs™.”

Safe and convenient

Not only is the treatment itself safe, but Kosteniuk is an experienced practitioner.

“I’ve been in business for 15 years now, and I added the laser hair reduction service three years ago,” she says. “I make sure that all interactions with the clients are highly professional. I keep careful records of all treatments, and your treatments are confidential and private.”

“elõs™ is one of the safest hair removal systems available for all skin colours,” says Kosteniuk. “Both optical and radio frequency have been used for decades in medicine, surgery, and aesthetics. So there are no short-term or long-term health hazards from the laser or electric

“The group presentations are a lot of fun for everyone,” says Janice.

“I enjoy doing them, and people are able to easily get all their questions answered in a group setting. I explain the treatments, I give a demonstration with my equipment, and then I do underarm treatments for half-price.”

Finally, Kosteniuk works hard to make the treatments affordable. “It’s not as expensive as many people think it is,” she says. “There are payment plans available.

I can make it reasonable and affordable for those who really want the treatments.”

Because Kosteniuk is the sole owner/ operator of jk Solutions Hair Studios, her clients gain several benefits. To begin with, they like the fact that she is the only practitioner in the business. “My clients find that they receive consistent treatments from me because I’m the owner/operator,” she explains. “Also, I remember them from one treatment to the next.”

“Anyone can benefit from elõs™ treatments,” says Kosteniuk. “Men and women of all ages have received them from me and have been very satisfied with the results.”

She is also able to make all services very client-centred. For example, she can tailor her schedule to meet her clients’ needs.

“My hours are very flexible,” she says. In addition, if her clients would rather not go to her office in Rouleau, Kosteniuk will arrange to go to them. “I’m portable,” she says. “I can go to a client’s home easily.”

You can reach jk Solutions Hair Studio by calling 530-7659 or emailing dentedj@ hotmail.com. Also check out the web page at jkhairstudio.com.FHR

Make it a party Not only does she offer the advantage of on-site treatments, she will also do group presentations and consultations if there are a minimum of seven people in the group. “The group presentations are a lot of fun for everyone,” she says. “I enjoy doing them, and people are able to easily get all their questions answered in a group setting. I explain the treatments, I give a

demonstration with my equipment, and then I do underarm treatments for halfprice.”

JK Hair Solutions Janice Kosteniuk Rouleau, Saskatchewan 306.776.2426

FineHomes REGINA

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REGINA AND AREA

SHOWHOME LOCATOR MAP 16 6

11

2

4

Devonshire Dr

1 Pasqua St

Rochdale Blvd

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9 Ave N

Argyle St N

Sherwood Dr

12 Ave N Ring Rd

McIntosh St

Rink Ave 9 Ave N

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Whelan Dr

McCarthy Blvd

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Park St

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Lewvan Dr

Jim Cairns Blvd

Albert St

Parliament Ave

Massey Rd

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Rae St

23 Ave

25 Ave

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Argyle Rd

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REGINA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

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Ross Ave

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Winnipeg St

Elphinstone St

Dewdney Ave

Broad St

Albert St

Lewvan Dr

4 Ave

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Gordon Rd

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Township Rd 170

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1.

LAKERIDGE

DUNDEE DEVELOPMENTS 347.8130

WEST 5. FAIRWAYS HARVARD DEVELOPMENTS 777.0650 PARADE OF HOMES

2.

3.

SKYVIEW

TERRA DEVELOPMENTS INC. 924.0445

MAPLE RIDGE

MAPLE RIDGE DEVELOPMENTS INC. 789.0891 STHAMANN HOMES Brad Gregg 591.1736 7002 Maple Vista Drive (Opening Soon) 7002 Maple Vista Drive (Opening Soon)

4.

LAKERIDGE ADDITION

DUNDEE DEVELOPMENTS 347.8130 HOMES BY DUNDEE 1834 N. Blake Road 347.8100 Hours: Mon. - Thurs. 7-9 pm Weekends & Holidays 1-5 pm

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FineHomes REGINA

ARTISAN DESIGN BUILD 221 Brookview Drive 546.8030 Hours: Mon. - Thurs. 7-9 pm Sat. & Sun. 1-5 pm DAYTONA HOMES 101 Poplar Bluff Cres 522.3216 Hours: Mon. - Thurs. 3-5:30 pm / 6:30 - 9:00 pm Sat. & Sun. 12-5 pm GILROY HOMES 225 Brookview Drive. 789.6080 Hours: Mon- Thurs.- 7-9 pm Sat & Sun 1-5 pm HOMES BY DUNDEE 217 Brookview Drive 347.8100 Hours: Mon. - Thurs. 7-9 pm Weekends & Holidays 1-5 pm YAKOBOVICH HOMES 229 Brookview Drive 546-5353 Hours: Mon. - Thurs. 7-9 pm Sat. & Sun. 1-5 pm

CENTURY WEST HOMES 222 Brookview Drive 522.1062 Hours: Mon. - Thurs. 7-9 pm Sat., Sun. & Holidays 1-5 pm CRAWFORD HOMES 352 Prarie View Dr. 525.9801 Hours: Mon. - Thurs. 7-9 pm Weekends 1-5 pm crawfordhomes.ca PACESETTER HOMES 218 Brookview Drive 565.4663 Hours: Mon. - Thurs. 5-8 pm Sat. & Sun. 1-5 pm

COURT 6. EVANS EVANS DEVELOPMENT GROUP 584.5378 3566 Evans Court 3501 Evans Court Hours: Tues. - Thurs. 7-9 pm Sat. & Sun. 2-4 pm

7.

CREEKS 8. THE www.thecreeks.ca 522.2300

HARBOUR LANDING

DUNDEE DEVELOPMENTS 347.8130

GILROY HOMES 4838 Sandpiper Cres.

Ron MacDonald 539.4568 Hours: Mon. - Thurs. 7-9 pm Weekends & Holidays 1-5 pm

PARADE OF HOMES Hours: Mon- Thurs- 7-9 pm Weekends & Holidays 1-5 pm CRAWFORD HOMES 4703 Glass St. 525.9801 (Daily 1-5 pm)

HOMES BY DUNDEE 4707 Glass St. 347.8100

HOMES BY DUNDEE 4127 Chuka Drive 347.8100 Hours: Mon. - Thurs. 7-9 pm Weekends & Holidays 1-5 pm

CENTURY WEST HOMES 4810 Upson Rd. 522.1062 NORTHRIDGE DEVELOPMENTS 4711 Glass St. 352.5900

TRADEMARK HOMES 4822 Upson Rd. 205.2502

KRATZ HOMES 4123 Chuka Dr..737.1912 Hours: Mon. - Thurs. 4-9 pm Fri- Sun 12-5 pm

GILROY HOMES 4802 Upson Rd. 789.6080 VARSITY HOMES 4806 Upson Rd. 525.2329

VARSITY HOMES 4147 Chuka Dr. 525.2329 Hours: Mon. - Thurs. 7-9 pm Sat. & Sun. 1-5 pm

HARMONY BUILDERS 4818 Upson Rd. 591.0631 DEVERAUX DEVELOPMENTS 4719 Glass St. 522.5556

NORTHRIDGE DEVELOPMENTS 4139 Chuka Dr. 352.5900 Hours: Mon. - Thurs. 7-9 pm Sat. & Sun. 1-5 pm

ARTISAN DESIGN BUILD 4826 Upson Rd. 546.8030

STHAMANN HOMES 3902 Goldfinch Way (Opening Soon) Brad Gregg 591.1736

WINDSOR CROSSING - CONDOS 46 Forty Harbour Landing Dr. 537.3200 Hours: Mon. - Thurs. 7-9 pm Sat. & Sun. 1-5 pm

GREENS 13. KENSINGTON YAGAR DEVELOPMENTS INC. 789.0891 GILROY HOMES 2022 Norman MacKenzie 789.6080 Hours: Mon- Thurs.- 7-9 pm Sat & Sun 1-5 pm

ON ROSE 14. GARDENS KENSINGTON DEVELOPMENTS 1910 - 12 Ave. Lana Harrison 790.1843 Hours: Sat. & Sun. 1-4 pm

PARK 15. REGENT TRADEMARK HOMES 565 Elphinstone St. 205.2502 Hours: Tues. & Thurs. 5-7 pm Sat. & Sun. 1-5 pm

DALE ON LAST 16. SUN MOUNTAIN LAKE

NORTHRIDGE DEVELOPMENTS 101-2501 Windsor Park Road 352.5900 Hours: Mon. - Thurs. 7-9 pm Sat. & Sun. 1-5 pm

TIMBER CREEK

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Richardson Lighting is Saskatchewan’s exclusive dealer for Artcraft Electric, the design of choice for the S&C product line.

Since 2007 celebrity designers Steven Sabados and Chris Hyndman have combined their expertise in design and lifestyle trends with Artcraft’s extensive knowledge of lighting and manufacturing to produce what has become one of the hottest Canadian lighting lines, the S&C Lighting Collection by Artcraft.

Independently owned for two generations, Richardson Lighting has enjoyed a strong relationship with Artcraft for more than 40 years, combining its old-fashioned values with Artcraft’s commitment to excellence in the world of lighting and design.

2101 7th Ave | Regina. Sk. | 306.525.8301 www.richardsonlighting.com

Introduced to the world as the Designer Guys before moving on to Design Rivals then So Chic, Canadian television sensations Steven Sabados and Chris Hyndman have hosted a decade’s-worth of television that’s reached a fan following in more than 80 countries. In the midst of their unstoppable ascent to stardom—an achievement fuelled by wit, personality and, of course, talent— in 2003 the openly-gay, long-time couple found time to co-pen the bestselling how-to book, Designer guys: Finding your Personal Style. The title best exemplifies their approach to design: to shun fleeting fashion trends and help others “be their own trend.” It’s a theme they’ve carried into their latest program on CBC television, Steven and Chris. The title is as neat and concise as their definition of good taste: timeless and classic.

Steven and Chris Timeless, classic and a little off the wall

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Steven and Chris meet with fans following the taping of their show at the CBC studios.

You pack a lot of variety into your shows, to the point where one is left wondering how you can be experts on so many things. Where do you mine the topics for your show?

Chris: We’re actually not experts on anything but the home decor. We’re just like all the other talk shows in North America; we bring on guests who are the experts.

When it comes to cooking, we’re the hosts who bring in our experts. When it comes to fashion, beauty, makeup, fitness—we’re definitely not experts with fitness—we bring in our experts.

Steven: I like to branch out... I’ll do a small cooking segment with food I’ve made myself, but by no means am I a chef. I just enjoy cooking, so I bring that to the table.

So you use the show to explore your personal interests?

Steven: That’s the nice thing about it.

We can bring something to the table just by saying, “I’ve always wanted to try this....” I love cake decorating—I know that sounds weird—but I keep pitching all these cake decorating segments because I personally want to learn how to work with fondant.

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Chris: But no one has agreed to that yet [laughter].

Steven: No, I know! But I’m still working on it. I love everything about cooking.

Someday down the road, would I want to be a chef? Absolutely! That’s what’s so great about the show, is I get to learn all these tips and tricks and have great chefs on constantly.

Chris: We’re learning so much from the show now, I think we, and everybody at home, are becoming a little more expert on things. I’m feeling smarter every day.

Steven: Hmmm [laughs].

Chris: I use the word “smart” very loosely.

Why do you enjoy DIY so much, Steven—I assume not because it’s trendy.

Chris: I’m going to answer this one. I remember when Steven and I were young; we watched a lot of Martha Stewart. Steven said, “I would love to do something like that.” He was very handy, very creative and crafty. Well, lo and behold he became a guest on Marilyn Denis’ show, CityLine, and he became an overnight success. I think people really enjoy mak-

ing things themselves—I don’t understand it at all. I don’t get it! But, man, has he got a following.

Steven: I grew into this because there was a time when I would go to the stores and see nice things, but I couldn’t afford them. So I made them. I think it’s really cool to see something you like, and then make it for yourself.

Chris: Personally, I just like to go in and buy it. Cash out of my pocket: it’s mine!

Now, Chris, you’re something of an aromatherapy connoisseur. Tell me more about that, why you feel it’s important to engage all the senses in home decor.

Chris: How did you know that? My mother lives in Moose Jaw—are you going for coffee with my mother? But yes, I’m obsessed with scents. I love them... sometimes I need something to help me go to sleep, or to calm me down, because I’m pretty hyper—I don’t know if you’ve noticed that. It’s also something to perk you up. My mom and I are both insane for it.

She goes to a company in Moose Jaw— shoot, I can’t remember the name—that send us the most beautiful scents—we’ll

talk about it on the phone for hours.

Steven: The company is called Willow Tree. They have the most amazing fragrances.

What’s the most practical approach to fragrance, for someone who doesn’t know much about it?

Steven: It’s so easy to go overboard with manufactured smells that are so potent and over the top. But if you go for the natural approach, it’s less offensive, with things like vanilla and lavender—real aromas instead of things like potpourri with cinnamon. Come on, that doesn’t even make sense.

Chris: Pure oils are the best. But I won’t invite people over and then put out my favourite fragrance, because people have their own tastes, they have allergies, or they just think it stinks. So limit scents to the powder room, because—well, I think you know what I’m saying. Other than that, leave it to fresh flowers. That can be a great way to add some subtle scents.

Keep it natural. Less is more.

Rather than following fleeting trends, the Steven and Chris product line features classic and timeless themes.

What do you think will be the hottest trends for 2012?

Chris: We’re the wrong people to ask that, because we don’t follow trends. We have a product line but we don’t put a trend in it. Everything is a classic that we expect you to be able to buy one, 10, 20 years from now.

We love it when the experts come on our show and show us what the trends are, but we’re not going to force them on anybody, because you know what? You are your own trend.

I really respect that. But where then do you get your creative inspiration, both for your product line and the home aesthetic you promote on the show?

Engage all the senses in home decor with subtle fragrances of naturally-scented candles and oils.

tassel craze, putting tassels on our sofas.

Even our colour pallet is very safe. You see a lot of furniture out there that’s bright red, but we will never be the bright-redsofa-people.

Who then inspired each of you to get into this line of work?

tha Stewart! I absolutely adore Rosie O’Donnell... I think she’s one of the most honest, real women on TV, Martha Stewart was one of the hardest-working. I hope that I’m bringing a little Rosie to our show, and Steven is representing Martha.

Steven, how do you feel about that?

Steven: I’ll agree on that one [laughs].

Steven: We want it to stand the test of time, because when people invest in furniture, it’s expensive. You can be a little trendy with decor items, that’s fine, but for us we don’t like anything that’s fussy.

You’re not going to see us suddenly on a

Chris: [To Steven] Martha Stewart?

Steven: Yeah, she was pretty much the only one who—

Winter is here. What can people do to warm up the interior feel of their homes?

Chris: Oh! Rosie O’Donell and Mar-

Steven: Get and electric blanket [laughs].

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Chris: I can’t live without an electric blanket, I’m always cold. It’s my favourite thing in the entire world.

Steven: Seriously, deeper colours. People are sometimes afraid to go rich on the wall. Go for chocolate browns, deep reds.

That will envelope your space, definitely cozy up any room.

How about Christmas decor? Is it about tasteful decorations, or are we talking about neon Santas and 10-foot-tall candy canes?

Chris: I’m sorry, but when I was a kid, these are the houses I would want to live in: too many decorations on the lawn and way too many decorations on the walls. You know the candy will be good in homes like that. But now, I do allow myself to be a little more tasteful, a little more subdued. But when I go to someone else’s house I do enjoy a mighty tacky decoration.

Steven: [to Chris] You really like that home-spun nostalgia, though, don’t you?

Chris: I do. I really do. I want to live in a movie. I want to live in A Christmas Story.

Chris’s favourite store for aromatic products is the Willow Tree in Moose Jaw.

It sounds like you both love the Christmas season. Do you have a favourite movie?

Steven: I don’t think I do.

Chris: You do too! You love A Charlie Brown Christmas. Come on!

Steven: Oh, okay, yes I do. I have the CDs and I play them over and over and over.

Chris: As soon as that movie comes on he goes and gets the biggest glass of wine you’ll ever see. He’s looped by the end of it [laughter]. FHR

Design sensations Steven and Chris sign glasses for fans. The duo partnered with the Reif Estate Winery in 2010 to launch their own label, Trend Wines.

STeven and ChriS home decor Dos and Don’ts Do Layered Lighting: A lot of people don’t think about light in their home decor scheme. Consider pot lights, chandeliers, sconces, small lamps on surfaces and picture lights on art. If you put everything on dimmer switches your’re going to create a very dramatic effect. A lot of people will install a chandelier in the dining room and leave it at that, but all you’re doing is illuminating the table, or it’s so bright the whole room is washed out.

You want to create pools of light.

And keep the lighting low; you don’t want guests to feel like they’re in a tanning bed.

Personal Touches: Display objects from your travels that reflect you. No one wants to live in a showroom that’s devoid of personality. We travel to Southeast Asia a lot and have some fantastic artefacts. They’re all over the house because they reflect personality—who we are.

Something Living: Do put out fresh flowers whenever you can, and if not, display something living, like a large pretty house plant as a point of focus and small potted plants placed throughout the home. Fresh herbs, growing in pots on the kitchen counter are always a hit. A single orchid in the entry way goes a long way.

Don’t Don’t listen to your neighbour: When you’re picking out paint colours or wall paper patterns neighbours will almost always pipe in and offer their opinion. They don’t live there, so don’t listen to them. The house is a reflection of the owner and their family. If Mary the neighbour doesn’t like apple green in the kitchen, she shouldn’t come over.

Don’t forget the function of a space: Rooms can be arranged and tidied to the point of pristine flawlessness, while we forget its purpose might be to receive friends and guests. A home is to live in, to be enjoyed. A dining room is to eat in, not just to hold ultra-formal dinner parties where no one is allowed to spill a little wine.

Never use small area rugs: In a living room scenario, don’t lay down a rug to accommodate only the coffee table.

Find one large enough that spills beyond the sofa and chairs. Despite popular belief that a large area rug will make a space look smaller, it will, in fact, make the room look much larger.

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W inter Wishing

By Ken Beattie

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S

ecretly I think that Prairie gardeners enjoy the onset of colder weather and relish the heaps of snow consistent with this time of the year.

Why, you might ask? Well, snow covers up all the “mistakes” from the previous garden season, puts an immediate halt to all things gardenesque and translates

Pine Cones

Cotoneaster Branches to “the pause that refreshes” for at least four months. What to do, what to do in this veritable vernal downtime? Why, we plan, of course, for next year’s gardening extravaganza. ‘Tis the season to rustle through magazines, absorb all those creative and oh-so-easy makeovers of reality TV shows and, of course, produce endless lists of “gotta-have” plant names.

I can recall sweeping up dust pans full of evergreen tree needles off the living room floor deciding whether to compost them or donate them to the local landfill. This seasonal holiday conundrum is the fodder of many an inquiry and with good cause. Most people consider, or at least have heard, that needles of evergreen trees will cause the soil to become acidic. A true point but one must consider the soil pH, or degree of alkalinity or acidity that you are adding the material to.

Generally speaking, the addition of a reasonable amount of needles to your compost heap, pile or bin or even directly to the garden will have a minimal acidifying effect. Needles are rather persistent as they do not break down as quickly as leaves, grass clippings and other plantbased materials. But really, who times how long it takes to decompose? Safe to say that

sweeping up and discarding the needles from your tree into the compost will be just fine; they may well still be there next year.

Settling down for a long winter’s nap and of course with visions of sugar plums (or Hosta varieties) dancing in your head is not the least strange option for the gardener. I often wonder if there is a named neurosis associated with the actions that so many of us exhibit particularly virulent in the throes of the winter season. The near obsession with what the newest perennials will be for the following year; should that last shrub I purchased be moved in the spring, pruned in the fall; and what about that new deck, patio or outdoor kitchen?

Maybe it is the ability of the gardener to drift off into a near trance-like state at the very glimpse of the first seed catalogue or “Martha-esque” design show on TV that keeps us sane (relatively) over the darkest period of the year. If not this, it is the trusted Amaryllis bulb fit to bursting with the promises of behemoth blooms, endless green foliage and at least a season’s worth of bragging rights. The reliable Amaryllis can be a show stopper for the festive season either as a cut flower or growing in a container.

Why not try Amaryllis `Chico’ or `Papillio’ and prepare yourself for an amazing explosion of pink and unique style? In Europe, Amaryllis are often used as cut flowers, a trend that is beginning here in

North America, so try it. Contact your local florist or garden centre staff to ensure that these Amaryllis can be sourced and if not, consider using high end artificial stalks.

If you are a thematic sort, pink is huge again this season in Europe, as well as, here in North America. The actual pantone, or colour registration number is PANTONE 18-2120. You can search this color online or check at a paint store to get the true visual. In plant terms, this is Honeysuckle pink, a truly rich pink with its heritage based in the rich red family.

Pink alone is a bit, well, pink and does need some “umph” to encourage it to speak in the sassy vernacular that only pink can pull off. What… pink is not a festive colour? Perhaps not a traditional colour, but married with the equally edgy chartreuse, this relationship screams high-end and cool.

Outdoors during the winter prairies season is generally festooned with blinking, twinkling and icicle-like lights until the weather becomes more favourable for

removal, if at all. A great adjunct to lights is “nature-crafting” your planters, window boxes and assorted containers with, you got it, nature-based materials. What I find to be the most reliable, accessible and long lasting are red twigged dogwood, spruce or pine boughs, shrub rose branches (with rose hips) and white birch and cotoneaster branches.

of pine varieties and of course holly and Poinsettia.

Enjoy the holiday season with all that comes with this time of the year. Wishing you good health, much happiness and a glorious New Year. FHR

Some folks like to include outdoor ribbon, artificial plant bits and small lights too; this is entirely your choice, your creation. If you leave your containers as I do with the planting media still in, the job of designing is much simpler, even in unpleasantly cold weather. I could espouse the theories of good design but really, use common sense and design the planters to suit your style, your home and your mood; it’s all good.

These nature-crafted designs will last all winter long remaining frozen and tasteful until mild weather.

There will be oodles of traditional plants to consider for the festive season as well. Consider incense cedar, the host

Ke

n B eatt ie

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Skyline Painting Ltd. RESIDENTIAL, COMMERCIAL & NEW CONSTRUCTION PAINTING • INTERIOR & EXTERIOR • SPRAYING • WOODWORK FINISHING • SERVING REGINA FOR THE PAST 10 YEARS

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“REFI” doesn’t have to be a four letter word.

Refinancing your mortgage for the right reasons can be a smart financial decision, especially with interest rates at historical lows. Some good reasons to refinance may include home improvements, investing in an RESP for a child’s education, catching up on your own RRSP contributions or consolidating any higher interest rate debts that you may presently be carrying. Perhaps you are simply interested in securing a better rate without increasing your mortgage.

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Perfect ing

the granite countertop

By Ryan Holota.

Photos by Shawn Fulton

hat factors make a business great? For most people, the first thing that comes to mind is customer service. Price is important, of course, but exceptional customer service really makes people sit up and take notice—likely because it’s something that few of us receive anymore.

Thankfully, if you’ve had countertops installed by CNG Stone, you’ve seen exceptional customer service. That’s because CNG Stone built its reputation on delivering customer service that goes the extra mile.

Part of delivering exceptional customer service at CNG Stone is educating their customers. “There are more than 800 colours of stone available, with between 60 and 70 colours that are used regularly,” explains Scott Tresek, owner of CNG Stone “In addition to those colours, each piece of stone is different in terms of pattern and texture. No two kitchens are really ever the same. Granite is a natural product, and so it’s never perfect. There are pros and cons to it, as there is every countertop material, so it is important to me that my customers understand the

product, as well as how to care for it,” says Tresek. “There isn’t a lot of maintenance that is required, but doing it properly will ensure that your countertops will be beautiful forever.”

“Let’s face it: natural stone countertops come from the ground. None of them are truly perfect. And anybody can start a company, bring in a slab, and sell it to a customer. It could be stone from the same quarry as the stone we have. But buying a countertop is much more than just buying a piece of stone. You have the craftsmanship, the installation and the service to consider as well.”

Natural countertops are delivered in slabs already sliced and surface polished, but much more needs to be done. The kitchen must be carefully measured, the

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stone cut to size, the edges polished and sealed, and then all the pieces must be installed. It’s a lot of work, and every flaw shows. CNG Stone has invested heavily in equipment and training to make sure everything looks amazing when they are done.

imported an entire shipping container full of stone. Bringing in large quantities of stone from a single quarry has a lot of benefits to the end user: from price, to quality and the ability to do larger kitchens and matching vanities.

The Production Manager, David Gray, is a lifelong stoneworker who moved to Regina from Quebec just for the opportunity to work with CNG Stone. “This is the best place I’ve worked in my career,” he says. “Here, I have complete control over the quality of the product that we deliver, and nothing goes out the door without meeting my standards.”

Still, in the world of homebuilding and home renovations, problems sometimes arise. That’s why some of CNG’s favorite referrals are from customers who have had snags on the job. “I’ve always believed that your reputation is the best asset and business can have,” says Tresek. “That’s why we go out of our way to do anything possible to build and protect ours.”

Because of all the colours and textures available, it is very important to see the actual slab that is going to be used in your home or business. CNG stone has you covered there, with more than 200 slabs for you to look at. Most of the granite in Canada comes from quarries in Brazil, but CNG has recently discovered some amazing quarries in Italy, and has

“When we deal with issues head on, our customers know that we are truly working for them, and that sets them at ease. That’s why we have seams in our showroom, so our customers know what they are going to get.” And CNG does have two seams in its showroom for all to see. “This seam over here,” says Tresek, “is the industry standard seem. It looks

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okay, but you can definitely see that it is there. This seam over here,” he explains, pointing to the other side of the display, “ is what our seams look like.” A cursory glance doesn’t reveal a seam at all, but upon close inspection a faint line is seen in the pattern. “We have very experienced workers, and a very expensive seam setting machine. It is an additional cost for us, but it allows us to deliver a superior finished product.”

With a showroom that is open six days a week to accommodate the busy lives we all lead, CNG Stone makes it easy to discover the products you are looking for. Located at 1445 Scarth Street, CNG is open from 8-5 on Monday through Friday, and from 10-4 on Saturday. If you need to learn more about stone products outside of those hours, visit www. cngstone.com, or check them out on Facebook at www.facebook.com/cngstone. You can also pick up your phone and dial 585-9876. FHR

We work with CNG Stone frequently, and they are amazing to work with. They are not afraid to try new products or techniques, such as unusual edge profiles that our customers find in magazines or in the internet. We’ve found that there is nothing they are not willing to do or try to keep us and our customers happy. Their customer service is also great.

-Sherri Krausharr, Cougar Custom Cabinets CNG Stone did the granite countertops in our kitchen. We had originally hired another company to do it, which then went bankrupt.

Understanding the difficult situation we were in, CNG Stone worked hard to find us the granite that we had originally wanted, and went above and beyond to help us get the kitchen we wanted. Their customer service is great. Scott and Susan are fantastic to work with.

-Tyler and Heather Sebulsky They did an amazing job in my kitchen and bathroom. Their quote was competitive, but their customer service and attention won us over. We were working with a designer, and they had previously worked with CNG Stone and confirmed that it was an excellent company to work with. They met all of their timelines, and worked very cleanly. When they left, everything was shiny and spotless.

-Karen Pacholka I never had any problems or issues dealing with CNG Stone and rate them a 10 out of 10.

-Doreen Nicolay I was very impressed with them and I highly recommend them, they are fabulous...I was very satisfied.

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I highly recommend CNG Stone Products and give them 12 out of 10!

We did a complete renovation on our home and out of all the tradespeople and contractors we had, they outshone them all with their excellent customer service and workmanship.

They do go above and beyond, they go that extra mile and if there were any minor issues to fix, they were there to do it right away and told us that they wanted us to be happy, and we were! I will always go to them for countertops and have recommended them to others. The whole team is great, but Susan really does an amazing job and is really wonderful to deal with!

-Janice Cain

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We placed granite throughout our house on every type of surface imaginable. Our kitchen coutnertops, two bathrooms, our fireplace mantle, a two-level bar, and even a window frame in an en suite bath. They were able to source matching stone for every surface, and every piece looks amazing. They did a fabulous job.

CNG Stone was very easy to work with, and very easy to talk to. They were very tidy, and worked well with the other contractors in our home, who they had to share tight spaces with at times. Everything was done when they said it would be done, and that was great. They are very professional and knowledgeable.

-Ron and Carlan Delaurier

As the owner of an interior design company, I work with a lot of tradespeople, and I chose CNG Stone to do my kitchen and bath countertops. Not only did I work with them on my personal project, I would highly recommend them to my clients. They were super to work with; everything was ready on time— something that rarely happens. I don’t have a bad word to say about them. They are awesome.

-Lisa Willness, Lime Tree Interiors From TrustedRegina.com

CNG Stone 1445 Scarth St. Regina, Sk. 306.585.9876 sales@cngstone.com www.cngstone.com

COUNTRY LIVING ON REGINA’S DOORSTEP

By Ryan Holota

n so many areas of Regina residential lots are smaller than ever, traffic is increasing and dense retail outlets are positioned right against people’s backyards. Regina is surrounded by prairie, but when was the last time you heard the sound of crickets, instead of the sound of airplanes and cars?

There is an alternative. White City and Emerald Park have existed for a long time, and they are not as far away as you might think.

While many consider these two closelyinterwoven communities to be 15 minutes from the edge of Regina, the fact of the mat-

ter is it takes only six minutes. And, oh, what a difference those six minutes make. Lots range from 0.4 to 0.75 acres, set back from the highway – this is where you can hear the sounds of nature instead of the sounds of Boeing.

You’re going to spend six minutes in your car anyway. It might be in bumper to bumper traffic on Albert Street, or waiting for a train on the ring road, but there is no denying that a commute is part of city life. When it comes right down to it, wouldn’t you rather spend that time on a straight, four-lane

highway that’s cleared of snow and sanded before you are even awake?

Aspen Village Properties Has The Answer In White City and Emerald Park, the name to know is Aspen Village Properties Ltd. They, along with their partners Aspen Village Developments, Aspen Creek Developments and Mauri Gwyn Developments are the leading land developers and home providers in the community. If you haven’t seen their signs or construction sites, you are unFineHomes REGINA

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doubtedly familiar with the golf course that they own and operate: Aspen Links Country Club, formerly known as the Emerald Park Golf & Country Club. This beautiful 18hole championship golf course is one of the highest-rated courses in the province; the 13th hole is rated as the second-best hole in all of Saskatchewan by Score Magazine.

Living in White City/Emerald Park is growing in popularity. As the population creeps toward 5,000, house prices are going up as well. Aspen Village Properties has a plan to provide high quality, affordable housing to people who have a dream of living in the community. There are 25 houses being built on large lots backing the 18th hole fairway that will be available for purchase in March or April of this year. The gorgeous 13th hole that we mentioned earlier is also home to some residential housing developments – 60 townhomes and 144 condominium units will be available starting in May 2012. These 204 housing units will be separated from the golf course by a lake, and look out onto the course, with the growing skyline of downtown Regina in the background.

Time For A Rebirth Spring will be an exciting time at Aspen Links. The clubhouse, which was tragically and famously lost to fire this past summer, has been redesigned. Construction is slated for the spring. Featuring the clubhouse, and including a separate restaurant, lounge and banquet hall with seating for more than 250, the new building will be a destination in the community—not just for golfers, but also for diners, event seekers, and those looking to relax with friends.

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As a special promotion, anybody who buys one of these residences gets a free 5 year membership to the golf club.

If you love the idea of living in a small community close to the city, but aren’t a fan of golf, don’t worry. You haven’t been left out of the plans. Within the White City side of the community at McKenzie Landing, 21 townhouses are being built. With prices starting at around $325,000, these new homes will provide affordable housing to many people.

White City and Emerald Park are growing. The community features great schools, clubs, and organizations, and there is ample opportunity for new businesses, rest, and relaxation.

But no matter how fast it grows, it will always have that relaxed pace compared to the city.

With the feel of a small town, the new developments spearheaded by Aspen Village Properties are sure to be the most popular new accommodations in the White City/Emerald Park region. To view maps of the developments, point your web browser to www.aspenvillage.ca. To get more information about any of these developments, or to reserve your spot now, contact Blair Arn at 539-1027 or Ken Kukurudz at 529-5456. Just try not to spend the rest of winter polishing your clubs. FHR

Aspen Village Properties

Aspen Village Properties 310 Emerald Park Road Emerald Park, Sk. 306.359.1027 www.aspenproperties.ca

�he �uxury OF WORLD-CLASS DESIGN

Kitchen and Bath Classics brings plumbing to new heights

By Ashleigh Mattern. Photos courtesy of Kitchen and Bath Classics hether you’re renovating an old home or building a new one, you’ll find what you need at Kitchen Bath and Classics.

“This is definitely the place people come to when they’re doing upgrades to any home,” said showroom manager Shelley Colleaux. “The majority of contractors send customers here to pick out their

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whole fixture package.”

Kitchen and Bath Classics is part of the Wolseley family. Founded in 1887 in Australia, Wolseley is now a global company, and the world’s largest distributor of heating and plumbing products in the world.

Being part of such a far-reaching and

distinguished company means Kitchen and Bath Classics has access to some of the best vendors and gives them the ability to get the best prices.

Their newly renovated luxury plumbing showroom displays all of the current trends and latest styles. They have 18 kitchen sinks and over 21 bathroom sinks made of glass, stone and copper. Also on

display are showers, shower doors, vanities, faucets and more. They carry many luxury and well-known brands, including Moen, Delta, Blanco and Toto.

Powder room chic One of the more unique items in the showroom is the Toto washlet seat with a built-in bidet and heated seat that fits onto your existing toilet.

They also have a working Neptune bathtub with a combination whirlpool and active-air system, and chromotherapy lights that change colours to suit your mood. One of the benefits of having a working tub in the showroom is that you can test it out – short of getting in, that is.

“You can actually come in and turn it on and see how it sounds,” said Colleaux. “It’s not like the old whirlpools where it sounded like you were going to take off!”

Free-standing bathtubs are a hot trend in bathroom design. These tubs are reminiscent to the old claw-foot tubs, but have a much more current, contemporary style.

If you really want to step up your design, try opting for a wall-mounted toilet, a popular European design.

With the Duravit toilets, the tank is built into the wall, with a sleek chrome button on the wall to flush.

Custom showers are also a great way to personalize and enhance the luxury of your bathroom, whether you’re looking at body sprays, rain shower heads, or even a steam shower. However, you will need to be sure your house can handle the dream design you want.

Kitchen and Bath Classics can help you determine if the shower will work with your water heater and water line size, “before somebody invests on something that may not work in their home,” said Colleaux.

Their highly trained sales consultants will help you with your project from start to finish, no matter how big or small that project may be.

“We help you with every detail of the plumbing package,” said Colleaux. “It just makes the process a lot easier.”

Kitchen fashion In kitchens, one of the biggest trends is the undermounted sink, available in both stainless steel and a granite composite material. These sinks seem FineHomes REGINA

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to gracefully drop into the counter, looking like a natural extension of the counter top.

“The black and dark chocolate brown colors are very popular,” said Colleaux. “There is even a new color called truffle that coordinates very nicely with many granite and quartz tops that are available right now.”

Pair that granite undermounted sink with a stainless steel goose neck faucet, and you’ll be the most up-to-date homeowner on the block. Stainless steel is still a kitchen staple, which makes it easy to match major appliances.

More than any other room in the home, the kitchen needs to be functional. Features that make life easier are big sellers at Kitchen and Bath Classics.

Instant hot water taps are becoming more popular and are now available in many more designs, making them easier to coordinate with the rest of the kitchen.

“You get instant, near boiling water just by turning on the faucet,” said Colleaux. “This is great for tea, hot chocolate, even warming up baby food – it’s a really handy thing to have in the kitchen.”

Hands free faucets are also a welcome trend in kitchen design.

You’ve seen these in public washrooms, and now they’re making their way into homes, with the difference that you can adjust the temperature. Some of them are proximity taps, while others are touch taps that you can bump with the back of your hand or elbow.

“We sell a lot of luxury products, but a lot of it is very functional also,” said Colleaux. “You’re not simply buying it just for the look of it.”

Purchasing kitchen and bathroom fixtures can get as expensive as one would like, but Colleaux points out that spending a little more can be a great investment, as people look for these items when buying a home. Coming from a wholesale background, Kitchen and Bath Classics sells something for every budget, whether you’re doing a quick basement renovation or building a completely custom home.

“It’s long lasting,” she said. “Virtually everything we sell has a lifetime warranty and we take care of that. If somebody has an issue, they bring it here and we’ll go to the manufacturer on their behalf, and if we have the product in stock, we’ll replace it.”

For more information about Kitchen and Bath Classics, and to see some of the brands they offer, visit kitchenandbathclassics.com.

Or better yet, head to their brand new showroom, where you can experience the luxury for yourself. FHR Kitchen and Bath Classics 1176 Hamilton St Regina, Sk. 306.565.2284 www.wolseleyinc.ca

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The Kitchen and Bath Team: L to R: Jamie Tyndall, Karma Posehn, Shannon Fedor, Nicole McGrath and Shelley Colleaux

A new business model for the new Saskatchewan market

By Trilby Henderson.

Photos by Kiriako Iatridis

“We don’t celebrate our own successes as much as we celebrate the successes of the people that we serve. We believe that the most important element within our industry is the happiness of our clients, who become our friends. That’s what builds business and generates new outcomes.”

Brooks Findlay

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ealty done differently. For Brooks Findlay, founder of Rock Bridge Realty Ltd., these three words represent some very big ideas in the world of real estate. “Realty done differently” means infusing team spirit within the business environment. It means embarking on bold new ideas in the absence of fear. It means genuinely and actively supporting the professional development and growth of others, and using social media and technology to its utmost potential.

At its very heart, “realty done differently” simply means representing clients in a manner that exceeds their expectations.

“We don’t celebrate our own successes as much as we celebrate the successes of the people that we serve. We believe that the most important element within our industry is the happiness of our clients, who become our friends. That’s what builds business and generates new outcomes,” Findlay said.

Findlay first became involved in real estate more than a decade ago, a move

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that enabled him to use the extensive community network he had developed during his football career, and while working with the Regina Police Service as a valuable asset. After five years spent earning his broker status under one of the national companies, he decided to take advantage of the massive growth he foresaw in the Regina market by putting his own innovative business concept into action.

Findlay began by focusing on three trendsetting, parallel industries to shape his new real estate business: technology, high-end fashion and film. “Movies…have the ability to initiate and manifest huge moves of emotion and I know that in real estate, emotion plays a significant part in whether the transaction is perceived as going smoothly, or the opposite,” he explained.

The birth of Rock Bridge Realty Ltd. could not have occurred at a more favourable time. The company arose in the midst of a wealth of opportunity within the Saskatchewan real estate market, and quickly established itself as a new

industry leader. “In my opinion, the real estate industry is one that, in the province of Saskatchewan, will make significant strides in the next decade,” Findlay said.

“I believe that we have a wealth of talent in this industry, in this province, and I believe that it is largely untapped talent, and that the people of Saskatchewan are focused now on Saskatchewan people making an impact. I think we’re positioned extremely well for that.”

Rock Bridge Realty has wasted no time recruiting the best of this untapped Saskatchewan talent to join its real estate team. In fact, in the past year and a half, the company’s staff has exploded from six to 22 people.

“We believe that we have a fantastic team of people,” said Findlay. “When you get like-minded people who are focused on building their talents, [who realize] that the knowledge for business is unlimited, and who are open to that knowledge, your accomplishments are limitless.”

One reason the Rock Bridge Realty team

works so well together is because all members share a common value chain. They embody a spirit of gratitude, are both ambitious and accountable, and believe that the value of what they receive is dictated by the value that they put forth.

Another reason is the passion with which Findlay has integrated the team concept into every aspect of the company, including its physical location. In keeping with his original vision for the business, he designed the Dewdney Avenue work space to offer a perfect mix of traditional and contemporary elements: exposed brick and stainless steel, curved walls and high ceilings, massive wood beams and murals inspired by nature, classic furniture and trendy decor.

“It was about building an environment that inspires. Building an environment that pulls people together in conversation and, at the same time, that is very supportive of a person’s daily activities and represents a strength in the industry,” he said.

In addition to the daily interaction between team members, Findlay makes a point of hosting monthly meetings to inspire and motivate staff and allow them an opportunity to contribute to the company’s vision. “I think a missing entity for many that are in the corporate workforce is that they don’t share the heartbeat of the corporation,” he said. “We try to do that… and make sure that everyone feels that they are valuable to that heartbeat.”

In many ways, Rock Bridge embodies the adage, “the whole is greater than the sum of its parts”; by collaborating with other members of the team, each person is able to multiply the value they bring to the table, for themselves, the company and their clients. “I believe everyone that is a part of this entity – Rock Bridge – is a leader. We do not operate as a hierarchy as much as we all work together for an end result,” said Findlay.

Rock Bridge may operate as a cohesive unit, but within that unit, each team member is strongly encouraged to think outside the box and use their own creativity to generate new opportunities. Fresh ideas are supported and applauded, whether or not they are acted upon in the end.

“Everybody within the family of Rock Bridge really focuses on the art of listening,” Findlay said.

Rock Bridge also embraces the diverse spheres of influence and skill sets its members bring to the table, as these different areas of expertise are what allow the company to serve a vast range of clientele, from first time home buyers and sellers to large-scale commercial properties. Findlay’s own area of expertise is in executive residential properties and industrial business sales, where he can best utilize his skills of negotiation, collaborative engagement and disciplined execution.

Rock Bridge Realty has become a leader in residential sales capabilities, but for the last number of years, Findlay has added depth by placing extra focus on the sale of commercial and investment

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properties, and making it a priority to provide the most current expertise on Regina’s commercial, investment and development market.

One key area Rock Bridge has chosen to focus on over the past several years is the management of the conversion process from an apartment building to individual condominium units, and while this particular process can be confusing, Rock Bridge is able to guide its clients through with confidence and ease.

Findlay acknowledges his role as a leader and mentor to the other members of the Rock Bridge team. “I’ve always believed that no matter what the industry, no matter what anybody does, that a mentor and coach is not only important, but it’s almost imperative,” he said.

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Findlay also encourages team members to seek mentors in the outside community and to take advantage of professional development opportunities, including those he provides to his staff at Rock Bridge. “Negotiation skills and negotiation training is an element that a lot of consumers don’t factor in when looking at a real estate advisor’s resume. These are essential tools to be successful in this industry for your clients, that can be largely overlooked,” he said.

“I think that, at the end of the day, what drives the profit margin for the clients that we serve [is] the negotiating abilities, knowledge and overall skill that our advisors bring to the table for the client.”

Rock Bridge’s dedication to improvement extends beyond the individual to every

process of the business, including the proven strategies it presents to its clients.

All are continually examined so that even the slightest inconsistency can be caught and realigned to better serve the clients’ and the company’s goals. “Everything that can be measured can be improved, and so measurement is a key factor for business success,” Findlay said.

Because they are vigilant in keeping on top of each client’s needs, the Rock Bridge team is able to quickly identify potential challenges and provide their clients with workable solutions. This, Findlay says, is an essential part of a realtor’s role. “I think largely what is missed in our industry [is] the ability to say, ‘Hey, this isn’t working but this is what I’ve come up with as a solution for you’.”

“We’ve been hired to, firstly, put a strategy in place that’s going to be effective, efficient, with a positive outcome,” he said; “secondly, to have the knowledge base, skills, and ability to produce that outcome; thirdly, to identify when things are working or when they are not working; and lastly, but most importantly, to provide solutions. That’s why we’re considered professionals in this field. We have to be able to provide solutions.”

All of this comes back to Rock Bridge’s central purpose: to exceed its clients’ expectations. It’s a commitment Findlay takes very seriously, knowing that his role and the efforts of his team can have a huge impact on what is often a key moment in a client’s life.

“Buying and selling real estate is highly emotional and it can be very stressful,” he said. “What we work at on a daily basis at Rock Bridge is to become that calming, assertive professional who, through providing solutions and providing a platform of success, [will make sure] that the people that we serve will be in the best place possible.” FHR

“We believe that we have a fantastic team of people.

When you get like-minded people who are focused on building their talents, [who realize] that the knowledge for business is unlimited, and who are open to that knowledge, your accomplishments are limitless.”

- Brooks Findlay

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EXPERTAdvice HOME IMPROVEMENTS Home Insulation with G. Michael Dynna, President of Spray Jones Does Walltite Eco Really Make A Difference In A New Home?

This is a common question with an easy answer. New homes are built with thicker walls, better windows, and more efficient heating and cooling systems.

Many people assume that, because their house is new, that it will automatically be more energy efficient, but this is not true. Modern homes may have more controlled airflow and fewer leaks than older homes, but the quality of traditional fiberglass insulation is still much lower than a spray foam insulation such as Walltite Eco.

G. Michael Dynna

President of Spray Jones Phone: 306.359.FOAM (3626) Toll Free: 1.888.414.FOAM (3626) www.sprayjones.com

There are no shortcuts in life, and the truth is, it costs money to insulate, heat, and cool a living space. With Walltite Eco, you have an opportunity to pay a little more when you build your home and enjoy the benefits of substantially reduced utility bills for the rest of the time you live in your home. The difference is so dramatic, that most homeowners save between $300 and $400 per month on natural gas and electricity bills related to heating and cooling their home. And for most homes, the extra cost of spray foam insulation is about $50 per month on the mortgage. Within five years, your investment has paid itself back in full, and you are keeping money in your pocket.

paying more money now for granite countertops and fancy electronics – things that go out of fashion quickly can easily be added later, the smart decision is to spend money improving the structure of the home—reducing the cost of living in that home over the long term. Five years in the future, when you have recouped your investment, you can spend the extra $300 to $400 per month on new countertops and the new home theatre system. And those figures assume that the cost of energy will stay the same as it is today. As energy costs go up, your savings will go up too.

The difference isn’t only financial. How do you put a value on your comfort within a home? When your basement is as warm as your main floor, your north facing bedroom is as comfortable as your south facing bedrooms, your walls aren’t cold to the touch – how do you value that? And those are just some of the additional benefits of Walltite Eco over traditional fiberglass insulation.

Homes that can prove a history of energy efficiency through unbelievably low utility costs demand more money when it comes time to sell. Of course, they also provide a more comfortable space to enjoy the time that you spend in it. FHR Michael Dynna is the President of Spray Jones, Regina’s trusted installer of BASF Walltite Eco insulation, and an expert in the fields of insulation and expanding foam.

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EXPERTAdvice TRANSITIONS ESTATE SERVICES Smooth moves over life’s bumps Our advice is to avoid procrastinating. Most people leave their decision about five years too late and find themselves physically unable to manage such a project. A free consultation helps you decide what will be moved to your new home and what will be sold or given away. We arrange for movers and are there to set up your new residence, arrange your furniture, make your bed, stock your cupboards and hang your pictures. We are not satisfied until you are completely comfortable with all aspects of the move.

At that point, we organize the sale of the remaining belongings at the former address.

Consisting of four life-long friends with deep rural Saskatchewan roots, The Transitions team offers a range of services including estate dispersal, downsizing and de-cluttering.

In the field of estate dispersal, the company is usually contacted by the executor of the will. In order to ease the executor’s burden we advise individuals to add a Transitions brochure to their will kit. It is so much easier for the family to disperse their loved one’s estate if they have professional, nonpartisan help. Our first priority is to ensure that all items bequeathed are delivered to the beneficiaries.

Transitions can assist in the careful packing and shipping of valuable art, jewellery, furniture and mementos. Once all items the family wishes to keep are removed, the team cleans, organizes and sets up the remaining estate to be sold, preferably from within the 52

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home. Transitions prices the articles for sale, with the help of professional appraisers, if necessary.

A useful bit of advice: save original bills or appraisals on high-end jewellery, antiques, art and furniture. It saves costly time researching the value of items and ensures appropriate pricing. The sale is advertised through the Leader Post, Used Regina Kijiji, community news and signboards. We also send an E-blast before each sale to a growing list of hundreds of customers from previous sales. Unsold goods are delivered to the charity of your choice. It would be helpful if that charity was also named in your will. All proceeds from the sale go directly to the estate. Transitions charges an hourly rate for their services, but takes no percentage of the sale.

Downsizing may involve a move from your home to an apartment, condo or care facility.

The third facet of our business is a decluttering service for those who don’t wish to move but want to downsize and organize the belongings that are taking over their life. It’s not easy to part with personal possessions but living with clutter is depressing and stressful. When we help sort and clean, organize and store, remove garbage and other redundant articles, it’s a huge weight off your shoulders.

To avoid clutter, remember: • For every item that comes in to your house, something must go out • One touch only! When you pick up an item to organize, either set it down in a permanent location or discard it. If you don’t love it or use it, let it go • Life is never constant. It is a series of moves and changes. Transitions Estate Services wants to smooth the bumps on your road, remove the stress and let you get on with enjoying your life. FHR

AVAILABLE AT:

Skyline

home decor

1938 Dewdney Ave. Regina www.skylinehomedecor.com

THE INTERVIEW SEASON 2

By Trilby Henderson

he Interview is back and better than ever, with new challenges, new opportunities and a grand prize package that will see one contestant’s dream of a successful career in real estate brought to life. Through this reality-based competition, which mimics the concept of NBC’s The Apprentice, ten of the province’s top business-minded individuals will be put to the test in a series of challenges, all in a bid to win a lucrative one-year contract with one of Saskatchewan’s fastest growing realty firms, Rock Bridge Realty.

Brooks Findlay, owner of Rock Bridge Realty, first introduced the inspiring business reality show to the public in 2009, attracting rave reviews from an audience of more than 180,000. The massive, positive response to the show helped Findlay meet his objective of using this innovative, multi-media platform to raise funds for a deserving local charity, while attracting an outstanding new agent to his team. It’s an objective he hopes to repeat in Season Two. 54

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“The perfect candidate is of no specific age, no specific background. It’s open to everybody that is a dynamic individual and believes in the new way of doing business, which is to be creative and innovative,” Findlay said. “We will train the abilities that you need and [assist with] the licensing that you need to become a realtor in this industry. The personality and the life skills is what we want that person to bring to the table.”

While only one will take home the grand prize, all contestants who are chosen to participate in The Interview Season 2 will benefit from the incredible networking and educational opportunities that form the basis of the competition, including mentorship from some of the most well-respected business leaders in our community. It truly is the opportunity of a lifetime.

“Be courageous. Be bold. Take the step,” said Findlay. “This could be your time, and you deserve it.”

Judges and Business Partners One of the biggest perks of competing in The Interview Season 2 is the connection that each contestant will make with some of the most influential members of our community. To start, an advisory panel consisting of prominent business leaders will impart valuable business advice and provide decision-making guidance to the contestants as they attempt each weekly task.

Then, at the end of each week, the remaining contestants will come face to face with a judging panel who will question and critique their performance leading up to the elimination ceremony.

Each week will feature a new judging panel, chosen for their professional cache and field expertise.

Victor Thomas, executive director of E. VO Global and chair of the Regina Chamber of Commerce, served as a judge during the first season of the competition. “It was

nice to see an innovative-type solution to finding the right candidate for the job here—not just Saskatchewan, but Regina,” he said. “I also think it was very nice to see the approach get not only local, but provincial and national recognition,” he said. “The thing that I was probably most amazed with was the commitment [the contestants] had to the process and the money that was raised as a result,” Based on his experience with the last group of contestants, Thomas offers a quick word of advice to those entering The Interview Season 2.

The Canadian Red Cross During its first season, The Interview helped to raise more than $69,000 for its chosen charity, the Children’s Health and Hospital Foundation. This year, all funds raised will go to benefit a new, equally deserving cause – the Canadian Red Cross, Canada’s leading humanitarian organization.

The mission of the Canadian Red Cross is to “improve the lives of vulnerable people by mobilizing the power of humanity in Canada and around the world.”

Each year, this non-profit organization offers assistance to millions of people in need by providing health services, injury prevention, violence and abuse prevention, and disaster response and preparedness.

The money raised will support the Red Cross in Saskatchewan and their “Imagine No Bullies” campaign, which empowers Saskatchewan youth to stand up to

Rock Bridge Realty and its partners look forward to setting a new fundraising record in season two of The Interview, and to seeing this money put to great use through this worthwhile cause.

Kyla Dean The Interview Season One winner Kyla Dean had recently decided to leave her 10-year career in television broadcasting, taking the first steps to become a realtor when the reality-show presented her with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to fast track her decision. Dean used the skills she had acquired through her background in media to excel at each of the Season One competition’s challenges, from creating a Facebook Fan Page, to selling a Saskatchewan Roughriders photo, to planning and executing a public speaking engagement.

Now, two years later, she is still fully enjoying both the path she is on and her role as a valued member of the Rock Bridge Realty team. Dean strongly encourages others to take advantage of this amazing opportunity to embark on what may become an exciting new career.

Photo by Kiriako Iatridis

“Any type of process that you go through in life where you are learning like that, and growing, is quite enriching and, I think, for the better. Candidates who are willing to take the plunge have so much to look forward to. Most things that are truly enriching are not always easy, but [they are] exceptionally satisfying.”

bullying in their communities. To find out more about this campaign, visit www. redcross.ca/imagine

The Interview Sponsors

“There are a lot of different components that go into this competition, but every part of it is great,” she said. “There is nothing to be afraid of in this competition.

It is only, really, the perfect platform for anyone aspiring to any position in the business community.”

“If you are sitting on the fence and you’re wondering, “Should I apply for this?”

There is absolutely no question in my mind – of course you should. This is going to be one you won’t want to miss out on.”

FHR

For more information about the project or to follow The Interview webseries & vote for your favorite contestant starting Jan 24th GO TO www.theinterviewseason2.com

The Best Job Interview Ever 5 Weeks. 10 Contestents. $100,000 Prize.

You lay awake at night thinking of the next business idea, you blog more about business than Perez does about entertainment, you have thought about pitching your wares on Dragon’s Den and simply have a passion for life. If this is you and your opportunity hasn’t come knocking, here is you chance...

WE ARE LOOKING FOR YOU.

APPLY ONLINE AT

WWW.THEINTERVIEWSEASON2.COM Presented by:

Grand Prize of a 1 Year Contract with Rock Bridge Realty and a 1 Year Lease from Capital GMC.

Hold on, The Interview of you life is about to commence. 104.9 the WOLF, Rock Bridge Realty and Capital GMC are looking for you because we wanna give you a career opportunity of a lifetime. And because we don’t do ordinary, The Interview reward will be extreme. Be the most successful candidate and win a one year contract with Rock Bridge Realty, a year lease from Capital GMC and life style makeover. That’s a $100,000 prize!

Contest entry closes January 14th, 2012

Premieres January 24th, 2012 A Great Cause

Schedule of Events

The Canadian Red Cross mission is to improve the lives of vulnerable people by mobilizing the power of humanity in Canada and around the world. The money raised will support the Red Cross in Saskatchewan and their "Imagine No Bullies" campaign, which empowers Saskatchewan youth to stand up to bullying in their communities.

JANUARY 14TH, 2012 - MIDNIGHT Deadline to receive applications

Find out more at: WWW.REDCROSS.CA/IMAGINE

MARCH 1ST, 2012 - GRAND FINALE Winner Announcement

JANUARY 24TH, 2012 - PREMIERE EPISODE 10 Contestants will be announced Challenge #1 will commence January 26th, 2012 FEBRUARY 28TH, 2012 Final Challenge

THE PROFESSIONALS’ CHOICE

By G.H. Lewmer.

Photos by Calvin Fehr

I believe quality service is the most important ingredient to a healthy business. When you have happy and satisfied customers who have been treated with respect and consideration, then you’ve achieved a level of trust that individuals will always remember.” For Robert Grain, owner of Parkland Carpet One in Regina, it’s this trust, respect and consideration that for more than 30 years has resulted in thousands of satisfied customers who continue to make Parkland Carpet One their first choice for all their flooring and window covering needs.

Working as an independent home and condominium builder comes with many challenges. It’s imperative for every builder to rely upon a company to deliver the goods and services they require in a timely and responsible manner. That’s why Janine Wilson of Janson Home Building has worked exclusively with Parkland Carpet One for the past 7 years.

Janine Wilson MLS® REALTOR®

JANINE WILSON MLS ® REALTOR® 100-533 Victoria Ave www.janinewilson.ca

One Call Does It All!

“In my business, taking full responsibility for your work and being committed to quality service is imperative. I do not have the time to deal with shoddy craftsmanship or indifferent customer relations. I’ve dealt with Parkland Carpet One for the past seven years in working with my clients to assist them in choosing and installing their flooring needs. I’ve never heard an indifferent word about Parkland Carpet One from any of my customers. In fact, clients go out of their way, after the fact, to comment on how great everyone at the store is to deal with.”

537-3200

• Condos • Resale (MLS) • Relocation • New Build

Janine believes that their superior service comes from genuinely caring for every customer. “The best way I can put it, is that Parkland Carpet One just gets it. They always go the extra mile for any customer. The communication and superior knowledge the staff shares with every customer is fantastic!

They go into detail with all my clients about choices and considerations, supporting them in their decision, instead of trying to sell them something that they don’t really want or need. They respect good business and they respect people.”

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WINDSOR CROSSING DEVELOPMENT CORP.

MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE

REALTOR

R

MLS

TM

DANIELLE WILSON-CREASER MLS ® REALTOR® and MORTGAGE BROKER www.daniellewilson.ca

536-0027

When you work as an interior decorator, having quality materials and a diversity of choice can be the difference in raising a space from the ordinary to the extraordinary. At Lime Tree Interiors, interior decorator Lisa Willness works exclusively with Parkland Carpet One for that very reason.

Lisa Willness of LimeTree Interiors and family

“In my field I have to be very particular about Window Dressing. I need to know that I can get the right colors and blinds for my clients so that I can actualize the vision they have entrusted me with. Parkland Carpet One has always been a dream to work with. So many times I’ve dealt with other companies who are always scrambling, searching in vain in trying to find what I’m looking for.

After working with Parkland Carpet One once, I’ve always returned, knowing that they’ll have exactly what I want when I need it. There’s a never a problem, they always deliver.”

Lisa is especially impressed with the quality and selection of the new store. “Their brand new location is fabulous! The staff is courteous and helpful, the selection is the best in Regina and their service is second to none. Their installers work well with my clients, answering any questions that they may have. You can’t find quality or diversity of choices like I get at Parkland Carpet One anywhere else in Regina. It has everything I’ll ever need or want.”

“Service and selection is what Parkland Carpet One has always been renowned for,”

says Grain. “It’s what we are, and that philosophy will never change.” For everyone who is part of the Parkland Carpet One family, it’s that philosophy of quality and service that is the reason why so many people make Parkland Carpet One their first and only destination when it comes to the best in flooring and window dressing in Southern Saskatchewan. FHR

Parkland Carpet One 1600 8th Ave Regina, Sk. 306.525.9125 www.parklandcarpetoneregina.com

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EXPERTAdvice RENOVATIONS Innovative carpet installation promotes healthier living

Parkland Carpet One

1600 8th Ave Regina, Sk. 306.525.9125 www.parklandcarpetoneregina.com

Parkland Carpet One continues to take pride in their customer-first commitment of delivering quality service and affordable pricing to the Regina area for the past 30 years. Friendly and knowledgeable staff at the locally-owned store are ready to help you choose from their comprehensive selection of the highest quality flooring and window coverings that Southern Saskatchewan has to offer.

The Healthier Living Home Installation System is exclusive to Parkland Carpet One and cannot be found anywhere else.

It offers property owners the opportunity to minimize irritants, dust and odors during floor installation. It is also a prescription for a harmonious home, by creating a

Photo by Shawn Fulton

Improving upon how we can offer the best in quality service and products has always been a high priority at Parkland Carpet One. Seeing that there is an increasing public concern over unnecessary health risks, Parkland Carpet One has successfully introduced and expanded upon their popular Healthier Living Home Installation System for flooring and carpeting.

The Staff at Parkland Carpet One in Regina

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Photos by Calvin Fehr

safe and healthier living environment for you and your family.

The installation is done by trained Parkland Carpet One customer representatives. After placing protective plastic sheeting over the doors and removing the existing carpet, Parkland’s customer representatives hepa-vacuum the exposed surface, removing any existing dust or mold that has accumulated through spills and stains. They then apply the liquid based HealthinEx antimicrobial preinstallation treatment, which disinfects the flooring surface, minimizing allergens, mold, mildew and bacteria, as well as limiting surface microorganisms from becoming airborne.

Once the pre-installation treatment is completed, an antimicrobial premium carpet Cushion is placed over top of the flooring. The carpet cushion features exclusive BioShield protection that inhibits growth of mold, mildew and odor-causing bacteria. It is hypo-allergenic, 100 per cent recyclable and comes equipped

with 98 per cent moisture-resistant Spill Bloc technology, which keeps spills from seeping through to the exposed surface beneath.

The brand new carpet is then installed. It now comes complete with the Parkland Carpet One Forever Warranty, exclusive to the Healthier Home Living Installation System. It guarantees that if your cushion ever loses resiliency, resulting in the failure of your carpet, the cushion and carpet will be replaced. It’s a commitment that Parkland Carpet One backs up forever.

The Healthier Living Home Installation is another example of how Parkland Carpet One has always recognized the importance of positive customer interaction with educated and informed customer representatives. Every customer representative who works at Parkland Carpet One is trained by their co-operative Carpet One University, Webinars and on-line courses. Parkland Carpet One remains committed to always offering innovation and the best in quality service in an ever-

expanding world of mediocre box-store sameness.

Experience for yourself their excellence in service and innovation by visiting the new 13,000-square-foot store at 1600 8th Avenue (at the corner of 8th Avenue and Halifax Street). You can also visit them online at www.carpetone.ca where you’ll find information on the Healthier Living Home Installation and all the fine products that Parkland Carpet One has to offer.

Hours of Operation: Monday to Friday 9:00 am to 5:30 pm. ,Thursdays 9:00 am to 8:00 pm and Saturdays from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. Phone: (306) 525-9125. FHR

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EXPERTAdvice HOME STAGING Why Home Staging Sells Your Home Faster and For Top Dollar

BEFORE

AFTER This house was being repaired and furniture was added to rent it as an executive home away from home. The addition of a few new pieces mixed in with the older ones, along with color and lighting, gives it an inviting, comfortable look. Staging helps homes rent faster as well.

Professional Staging Of Vacant Properties

Di Thompson

Simply Stunning Designs phone: 306.585.0775 | cel: 306.581.7750 dithompson@sasktel.net www.simplystunningdesigns.ca People imagine they can look past ugly decor or empty rooms and see ‘potential’, but usually they can’t. That’s why successful builders use Model Homes and Model Suites to sell their projects. Savvy home sellers realize that creating a show home environment will entice buyers.

People shop with logic and buy on emotion. Home buyers start house hunting with a logical list of criteria, but the home they actually buy is chosen largely by emotion.

A home stager’s goal is to allow potential buyers to walk into your house and have that “this is home” feeling.

We help you address potential roadblocks: home stagers pay attention to the “little” things like poor lighting, cracked ceilings, and overstuffed closets. We also give advice on bigger issues with flooring, paint colours and challenges in the kitchen and bathroom.

Problems help the buyer emotionally disengage from your house. Remember, they buy on emotion so don’t expect them to overlook all the problems that have annoyed you about your house for years. Stagers can quickly identify the problems and find the solutions for you. And remember – over 65 per cent of buyers want a home that is move-in ready.

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People often think that it is easier to sell a vacant home, as there are no furnishings, clutter, or personal items to distract the buyer from the home. Real estate statistics show this is not true.

Very few buyers have the talent to imagine what type and size of furniture will be suitable for each space, or what they could do with that “dancing floor” and whether that small bedroom will fit a queen-size bed.

Vacant rooms tend to feel cold and unwelcoming, and since there is nothing to focus on when you look into the room, you tend to notice marks, dents, dust and various other defects that would not normally matter in a room with furnishings.

accessories or art from our own collection.

Staging Makes Properties Inviting—and that’s a great step in selling What looks so simple and natural, in fact requires a lot of work and a lot of experience and knowledge. Everything counts: position of furniture, colour and scale, type of lighting, number of accessories, size of art and the height of it on the wall.

Call today for a consultation, to prepare your house for sale, make it appealing to the taste and lifestyle of your potential buyers, and make them fall in love with your home.

FHR

Staging is not decorating. Both Interior designers and interior decorators focus on creating an environment for the client that suits how they live.

Staging focuses on improving a property by transforming it into a welcoming, appealing and attractive product for sale. It focuses on neutralizing a room, not personalizing it.

Staging often uses a minimum of furniture and accessories with the goal of emphasizing the house’s architectural advantages.

Though staging uses furniture and décor items, it is not just furnishing and decorating. It is series of techniques that make a buyer emotionally connect with the space, creating a place for the eye to rest. You are not just selling three bedrooms and two bathrooms, you are selling a lifestyle and the way people want to live.

Professional Staging Of Lived-In Properties Our Staging consultants always try to use your existing furniture and décor as much as possible, but when needed we can bring in

Di Thompson – Owner, Lead Designer of Simply Stunning Designs I took my staging training in Regina in September 2006 through the Canadian Staging Professionals, as well as completing an Interior Design Course in the early 90s, and have been artistic all my life.

Lynda Daly – Staging Designer, took her training in Interior Staging and Design in Dublin, 2006. She started her own company in Ireland, offering design consultations and Staging for five years until moving with her family to Regina in February 2011. Her projects ranged from commercial to residential across Ireland. Lynda and Di work well together, offering fresh ideas and having fun combining styles.

Showroom at 3041 Saskatchewan Dr. Regina

306.359.6987 windows and doors

with the installation of Storm-Tite windows or doors

Earn AIR MILES速 reward miles 速 TM Trademarks of AIR MILES International Trading B.V. Used under license by LoyaltyOne, Inc. and Duraco windows and doors

A SIMPLE APPROACH TO HOME REALTY

By Amy Nelson-Mile nyone looking to buy or sell a house would do well to consider working with Rory Clark, a full-time realtor sales associate with Century 21 Dome Realty Inc. Clark has been working in the industry since 2005 and is dedicated to helping his clients have the best experience possible as they go through the process.

Clark strongly recommends that people work through a realtor when buying or selling a house. “You’re hiring experience and knowledge with a realtor,” he says. “For

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example, if you’re a seller showing your house on your own, or a buyer looking at a house, how do you know if it’s priced right? Through Multiple Listing Service (MLS) I can see what the neighbour’s house sold for, so you will know if the asking price on the house is fair.”

Clark focuses on being honest with people; he considers it to be the foundation for their relationship. “It’s important for a realtor to be upfront with people,” he says. “I tell them what they need to hear, not what they want to hear. For example,

regardless of whether you’re buying or selling a house, there are two prices for it: the emotional price and the actual price.

It’s our job as realtors to take the emotion out of it. We have to point out the good and the bad things about the house.”

Clark ensures that each step of the housebuying process is as smooth as possible for the people he works with. To begin with, in his first meeting with buyers, he makes sure that they have taken the preliminary steps.

Photo courtesy of Sharon Clark- Valley Portraits

“I ask them if they’ve talked to a banker or a mortgage broker yet. It’s important that they’ve done that so that they know the price range they have to work with—we want to avoid any disappointments.”

After this foundation has been laid, he works with the buyers to make sure that they can find the best possible match for a house. “I find out what their wants and needs are,” he says.

Once the preliminary work has been done, Clark is able to move into actively searching for the buyers. “I find houses that might work for them and then I go out with them to view,” he says. Although he is out with them as they look, he remains in the background. “When we go out, I point out features, answer questions, then let them go,” he explains. “I don’t think it’s the realtor’s job to push anybody.”

Once they’ve chosen a home, Clark takes them through the next steps. “My job is to educate them on the market value and then they can make an informed decision. I’ll present the offer, negotiate on behalf of the clients, and then, once we have a deal, I’ll look after all the paper work.”

Sellers who work with Clark find that he carefully takes them through every step of the process. “With sellers, I will look at the house and show them what the market is like. They can then choose a realistic price. After that, I’ll give them tips on presentation, and I’ll work with them on all the paperwork,” he says.

Clark credits his success to his approach to working with his clients. “I treat people as I’d like to be treated,” he says. “I enjoy working with people and families, and I believe in treating people with respect and professionalism. When everything comes together, it’s pretty cool.”

Rory Clark of Century 21 Dome Realty Inc.

For more information call Rory Clark at 790-3638, email him at rory.clark@century21.ca, or visit his website at www.roryclark.ca. FHR

Rory Clark Sales Representative 1040 N. Pasqua St. Regina, Sk. 306.789.1222 rory.clark@century21.ca www.roryclark.com

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SOLVING YOUR PROBLEM IS OUR BUSINESS REGINA

840 Winnipeg St 789-RENT (7368) Fax: 359-1624

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TENACITY AND EXPERIENCE WORKING FOR YOU With a background in marketing and project management, Carmelle Beaudry has the ability to recognize a good investment and get the job done!

By Ryan Holota

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ne of the most expensive and complicated things most people will ever do is buy a house. You must decide on a budget, get approved for a mortgage, shop for a home, have a home inspection, make and amend offers and finally, after everything else has been done, meet with a lawyer and sign very long, complex documents. Your real estate agent can walk you through every step.

Carmelle Beaudry, an agent with Century 21 Dome Realty Inc., has years of experience dealing with large, complicated projects. A former marketing and project manager with SaskTel and a sales manager with a modular home company, Beaudry has handled many large projects.

“My advice is not to get overwhelmed,” she says. “Focus on finding the house that you can see

yourself living in for the next 5, 10, or 20 years, and leave the worries about the process to your real estate agent. That is their job, and they’ll keep you on target and help you manage the details.”

Of course, salespeople do more than just handle the details for you. They are also instrumental in helping you find and choose the right home, or in helping you sell your existing home. “A lot of people believe that they can sell their home by themselves. Many of them are right—in a competitive market you can put a sign up on your lawn and attract buyers. But, how do you know if you are getting a fair price for that home? Listings on the Internet don’t tell you what the house actually sold for, and prices can fluctuate quite a bit even between two blocks and over a short period of time. Real estate agents have access to the actual sales price of houses, and they

involved with, such as University of Regina’s Women’s Club, Dress For Success, the Canadian Cancer Society, and the Canadian Diabetes Association. As a former member of the Regina Green Ribbon Advisory Committee on Climate Change, Beaudry helped to keep the topics of climate change and energy conservation on the top of the minds of Regina’s city officials, educators, and the public.

Buying and selling a home isn’t for the faint of heart. Luckily at least one real estate agent, Carmelle Beaudry, is more than capable of guiding you through the process while helping you find the home of your dreams, and the mortgage payment that fits your wallet. Learn more about Carmelle at www.carmellebeaudry.com or by giving her a call at 527-0197. FHR

know what features buyers are looking for in a home. Your house may seem just like the one down the street, but it may have certain features like piles; energy efficient furnace; upgraded doors and windows; an extra bath; or granite countertops, that are worth thousands of dollars more.”

Beaudry’s clients agree. A client recently mentioned that she initially planned to try to sell her home on her own but when Carmelle explained the services that she provides the client chose to list her home instead, and was very pleased with the experience.

Another client called her patient and tenacious. In January of 2011, Beaudry’s efforts to please her clients and help them find

the home that is right for them earned her a place as one of the Top 10 producers at Century 21. In a company of more than 90 people, this was an honour that showed just how much she can help those she works with.

Perhaps it’s not really a surprise that Beaudry is so focused on her customers, and so persistent when it comes to getting them what they want. As one of eight children, getting attention in a family requires you to be outspoken and strongwilled. And her Bachelor of Business Administration has helped provide her with the tools to recognize a good investment. Those traits have served her well as a manager and a real estate agent, but also in some of the causes that she gets

Carmelle Beaudry

REALTOR® 4420 Albert Street Regina, Sk. 306.527.0197 carmelle.beaudry@century21.ca www.carmellebeaudry.com

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FineRecipes Filet mignon with berry sauce on asparagus INGREDIENTS: Sauce • 2/3 cup butter, melted • 1 1/2 tbsp. cornstarch • 1 1/4 c. sugar • 1 tsp worcestershire sauce • 1/4 cup orange juice • 2 cups of your favourite unsweetened berries, fresh or frozen • Salt to taste Steaks • Fliet mignon or tenderloin medallions • Canola oil • Fresh ground black pepper to taste • Coarse sea salt to taste • Fresh Asparagus

PREPARATION: Sauce Combine berries, orange juice, worcestershire sauce and salt in a processor until smooth. Combine butter and cornstarch in a sauce pan. Add sugar and berry mixture. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly until thick. Note: if you have time, you can forego the cornstarch and simply reduce until thick.

Steaks Combine canola oil, salt and pepper in a bowl.

Brush mixture on all sides of the steaks. Grill or panfry the steaks to desired temperature (about three minutes per side for medium-rare for a 1 1/2 inch thick steak). Set the steaks aside for five minutes.

While the steaks are sitting, steam the asparagus to al dente (about three minutes for thin asparagus).

PRESENTATION: • Cherry Tomatoes • Fresh Basil Cut cherry tomatoes in half and put a slit in the uncut side, insert basil sprig in slit. Artfully smear plate with sauce. Place asparagus in middle of plate and steak on top. Drizzle sauce over the top of steak and place cherry tomato on top. Remaining sauce can be frozen for future use.

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FineRecipes

This traditional English recipe is so simple and so good you will wonder why you don’t make it all the time

millionaire’s shortbread INGREDIENTS:

PREPARATION:

Caramel

Shortbread

Shortbread

•

• • • •

Preheat oven to 350 F and place rack in centre. Grease two 8-inch non-stick pans with unsalted butter. Dust with flour and tap off excess.

Slowly bring the condensed milk to a boil over medium-low heat in a heavy-bottomed saucepan stirring continously until it becomes thick and amber in colour (about 15 minutes). Pour the caramel over the cooked shortbread and spread evenly with a spatula. Cool to room temperature.

2 sticks unsalted room temperature butter 2 cups all-purpose flour 2/3 cup granulated sugar 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract 1/4 tsp salt

Caramel • 2 14-ounce cans sweetened condensed milk ChoColate •

•

3/4 pounds high quality semi-sweet or bittersweet milk chocolate 1 tbsp unsalted butter

In mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the vanilla extract. Add the flour and salt and beat until the dough just comes together. Press onto the bottom of your greased pans and bake for about 20 minutes, or until pale gold in colour.

Remove from oven and cool on a wire rack while you make the caramel and choclate layers.

ChoColate Melt the chocolate and butter in a glass bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water.

Pour the melted chocolate mixture evenly over the cooled caramel layer and allow to cool for 10 minutes at room temperature then place in the refrigerator until the chocolate is fully set, but not yet hard. Cut the shortbread into pieces using a sharp knife. Store the shortbread in the refrigerator to keep the chocolate nice and firm or in an airtight container at room temperature for a softer treat.

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�uilding � �ome IN SUN COUNTRY

By G.H. Lewmer. Photos by Shawn Fulton 72

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un Country Homes takes pride in being a local home builder that values and encourages an intimate and immediate relationship with every customer.

Sun Country Homes takes pride in being a local home builder that values and encourages an intimate and immediate relationship with every customer. Sun Country Homes prefers working with a small number of dedicated and experienced craftspersons, creating a family-like atmosphere that embraces quality workmanship over numbers sold. The company thrives upon the enthusiasm that comes with direct communication with every customer. It allows a healthy working relationship of trust that enables the creative vision of the home owner to be realized.

Working in collaboration with Sun Country Homes allows you to discuss any considerations that may arise in the design and construction of your dream home.

It allows you to personalize your home build in a manner that corresponds to your specifications, without being stuck with the cost of cumbersome overhead and red tape. Sun Country Homes prefers to work on a specialized scale, purposely limiting the number of projects they undertake to ensure customer satisfaction. Their list of credits includes years of experience as an Energy Star certified builder, along with membership within the Saskatchewan New Home Warranty Program. They are also a CMHC approved builder.

Sun Country Homes’ extensive knowledge of the local financial and physical landscape allows their customers to maximize their home-building investment. Sun Country Homes employs an in-house staff of designers and craftspersons that work in partnership with clients in the planning and construction of their new home, with an anticipated completion within six to eight months from the start of construction.

Drawing from an experienced pool of loyal contractors enables Sun Country to pass on reduced costs in labor, materials and time.

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Creating a new living and working environment in the country or the city is not an easy task. It’s important to work collaboratively with a home builder who knows the challenges of building in a rural or municipal setting. Fundamental questions such as the placement of septic tanks, the installation of power and telephone service, the placement of and material for driveways, zoning by-laws, or property taxes are best answered through the experience and knowledge that comes with working alongside Sun Country Homes designers and craftspersons.

What many new home owners building in a rural setting fail to realize, for example, is the high cost for failing to address all practical considerations that are taken for granted in the city. Sun Country Homes are specialists in acreage, lakefront and rural construction, meaning their experience in all facets of rural home construction (planning, preparation and building) is second to none. When concerns need addressing, you can always count on Sun Country Homes to be available to answer your questions.

Whether it’s important to meet with them in person, or through technology, the company philosophy of direct communication allows you immediate access to their in-house designers, project managers and contractors.

The home owner can always view the construction progress of their new home online through a project-management program employed by Sun Country Homes. All of the team members have immediate access to and are up to date about the design and construction progress. Customers can log in to a specially designed website and observe visual progress of the build, along with viewing and comparison of recent budgets, completion timelines and important information that has been placed on the website and agreed upon between builder and owner.

With the rise of housing prices throughout Saskatchewan, affordability is of primary concern for anyone planning to enter the housing market. Now that the going price of a home in the Regina area is averaging close to $400,000, purchasing your own home has become a greater risk than ever before.

To protect that investment, Sun Country Homes has designed a line of affordable homes available for either municipal or rural setting. These are quality built homes at the fraction of the price that many comparable homes sell for. With prices for a brand new, single-detached house starting at $239,000, Sun Country Homes allows new buyers to invest in their future for cost that is reasonable, accountable and accessible.

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Photo courtesy of Sun Country Homes Photo courtesy of Sun Country Homes

orking in collaboration with Sun Country Homes allows you to discuss any considerations that may arise in the design and construction of your dream home. It allows you to personalize your home build in a manner that corresponds to your specifications, without being stuck with the cost of cumbersome overhead and red tape.

Photo courtesy of Sun Country Homes

It’s hard to believe in today’s housing environment that you can still purchase a superior quality, custom-built home this low price. Sun Country is able to reduce the overhead costs that comes with home building through prudent lot selection, considered and precisionbased workmanship and the ability to garner excellent pricing on their building materials. If you’re in the mood to purchase and don’t have the time to wait for a custom built home, Sun Country Homes also has a fine selection of prebuilt homes that are ready to move into.

For the customer this means no project searches, no unnecessary scouting for that right location, no unforeseen project changes and, most importantly, no sudden cost overruns. All you have to do is choose from their diverse selection of houses, qualify for your mortgage and call the moving company.

Since Sun Country Homes are not tied to developing or pre-determined residential areas, it has the freedom to help you search and choose the perfect area for you and your family, in either the city or the country. In a rural setting, this freedom allows you to build upon larger lots, but, with the help of the team of Sun Country Homes experts, experience all the conveniences and luxuries of city life.

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in acreage building, there are numerous locations around the Regina area that you can choose to build upon. These locations allow for more flexibility in the design of your home and give you the option of incorporating your outdoor area into a working and living space that a smaller lot in the city could never offer. With Sun Country Homes they’ll walk you through the entire process from beginning to end to ensure that all your questions, needs and specifications are addressed and adhered to.

Based in the Emerald Park area since the company was first founded seven years ago, Sun Country Homes has proudly been a part of many of the exciting developments in the Emerald Park Region, making that community one of the most desirable places to live in all of Canada.

Pictures and listing price for this, and other Regina-based locations, as well as numerous other ready-to-move-into homes, can be found on the Sun Country Homes website. Lots are currently available in the White City, Emerald Park, Pilot Butte and Regina areas. Come by and browse through their extensive selection of affordable homes nestled in the beauty of nature, where you can enjoy luxury living at an affordable price.

For more information about Sun Country

Homes, visit their website www. suncountryhomes.ca. You can also contact Sun Country Homes at (306) 522-3303 or visit their office location at #204-28 Great Plains Road in Emerald Park. FHR

Steve McNabb Sun Country Homes

Sun Country Homes 204-28 Great Plains Rd Emerald Park, Sk. 306.522.3303 www.suncountryhomes.ca

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WOOD RIDGE FLOORING 435 Dewdney Avenue | 306.352.4639 | www.woodridgeflooring.com

Erin Capp- WoodRidge Flooring

memories that last a lifetime.

WOOD RIDGE FLOORING 435 Dewdney Avenue | 306.352.4639 | www.woodridgeflooring.com

The WoodRidge Flooring Team

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Park St.

McAra St.

unique styles and trends to suit anyone’s budget.

Dewdney Ave.

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What’s hot for

2012

By FHR staff

ome people love them. Some people hate them. Some people are indifferent, choosing to create their own.

But no matter how you feel about trends, they tend to have a big impact on what is available and how we view our spaces.

Real Estate All indications are that the housing market in Saskatoon will experience moderate growth in the coming year.

According to the Royal Bank of Canada’s (RBC) “Housing Trends and Affordability” report, the real estate market in all segments and by all measures has stablized from an all-time high in 2009.

“Saskatchewan homebuyers seem fairly comfortable with current affordability levels,” the report states. “Indeed, they were quite active in the third quarter (2011), with resales rising nearly [six 80

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per cent] from the second quarter to their highest levels in two years. Hefty gains were seen in Saskatoon and, to a lesser extent, Regina. Home prices in the province maintained their steady ascent, showing modest gains for most housing types. The Saskatchewan housing market will continue to be well supported by strong economic growth in the coming year.”

starts will continue to increase through 2012 on the strength of multi-family construction.

According to the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation’s report “Housing Market Outlook Regina CMA,” housing

In terms of investment opportunities, Price Waterhouse Coopers (PWC) reports that throughout Canada

“The prevailing low mortgage rate environment continues to support the multi-family housing sector in retaining its attractiveness to buyers seeking a lower-priced option to the singledetached sector,” the report states.

multifamilyand mixed-use properties will continue to remain strong, particularly condominiums. Builders are opting for condos instead of apartments, giving investors a chance to get in on incomegenerating real estate.

Despite a relatively optimistic outlook, PWC advises caution.

“This is not the time to be all in; investors should maintain liquidity, and focus on demand trends,” the report states advising investors to, “concentrate on the few markets showing hiring and leasing gains; steer clear of places with compromised long-term growth prospects.”

Interior Design Expect interior design elements to be dominated by Pantone’s 2012 colour pallette of bright oranges pinks and purples combined with soft pastels also in the warm range.

“Plaid is pretty hot,” says Fine Homes Regina style columnist Meredith Heron.

“Preppy Chic—bright colours used against neutral backgrounds. Natural fabrics like linens, wools and cashmere are huge… and personal luxuries; people are investing in their homes.”

Of course, the other big trend is in “green” products. Among the more popular of these that promise to be big sellers for 2012 are rapidly renewable and durable cork flooring, LED lighting and Paperstone countertops—a sustainable composite surface made from post-consumer recycled paper and a proprietary non-petroleum resin.

Renovations The renovations market promises to remain strong, also based on the “green” theme. Federal and provincial subsidies for energy efficient upgrades will remain in effect through 2012 allowing up to $10,000 in rebates.

The grants cover a wide array of energysaving measures including: furnaces,

central air conditioning, insulation, windows and doors, low-flush toilets, electronic thermostats and more.

Also, with housing prices remaining high and a low vacancy rate in Regina, many homeowners are hanging on to their existing properties opting to do major reno projects instead of moving. Among the most popular of these are dream kitchens, luxury bathrooms and outdoor kitchens.

Landscaping Speaking of outdoor kitchens, this hot trend of the last couple of years will continue in 2012 according to Fine Homes Regina landscaping columinist Ken Beattie.

“I do see a few things of note for the next year,” Beattie said. “Vertical gardens, as in using space that is atypical for growing plants; heavy use of texture in the landscape/garden with less emphasis on bright colours; using the garden space for FineHomes REGINA

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more than just gardening, family outdoor use, eating, celebrating and enjoying outdoors, but not necessarily in a heavily preformed space like a deck.”

He also predicts, “a return to vegetable growing, however, not necessarily the traditional varieties or traditional practices. Smaller sized or mini-veggies, climbing/hanging veggies, integration of veggies and foliage/flowers... not a distinct arena for each. Also, an emphasis on “yes, I did this” and the education of younger family members of where food comes from and at-home-ecology lessons.”

Dream Kitchens The buzzword in kitchens is “natural.”

Whether in new homes and renovations, consumers are opting for natural surfaces, including stone countertops, glass backsplashes, real wood cabinetry and tile, cork, hardwood and stone flooring. The central island, including cooking surfaces and sinks remains king.

In terms of appliances, stainless steel will continue to appeal in 2012. And more and more people, compelled by the “foodie” trend, will opt for professionalgrade appliances, sinks and pantries.

Neighbourhoods The emphasis in neighbourhoods is on greenspace and liveability. New neighbourhoods popping up on the outskirts of the city are generally mixed-use developments that include a mixture of high- and low-density housing complemented by walkable and rideable park systems, recreational amenities, office space and shopping. A return to the self-sufficient neighbourhoods of old.

In the core areas of the city, gentrification of the downtown core will continue apace as upwardly mobile residents renovate character homes and developers convert other spaces to condos as the city prepares for the large-scale redevelopment of the train yards. FHR

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ARCHITECTURALLY DRIVEN, STYLISHLY CONCEIVED, PERFECTLY EXECUTED Step up into a Pacesetter Home

By Ryan Holota. Photos by Shawn Fulton acesetter Homes will provide your family with a beautiful home built with what you want, at a price you can afford.

They have many new and fresh to Regina floor plans that are available to you. You will be treated as a member of the Pacesetter Homes family before and during construction and, most importantly, after you take possession of your new home. Their home designs are proven to work with no awkward spaces to fill with furniture and no areas that are too cramped to walk through. Each of their homes is designed by an architect, inspected by interior designers, and then built by expert tradespeople. Each and every Pacesetter Home is built on engineered piles to ensure that your home will last you and your family for years to come.

As a member of the Qualico family, Pacesetter Homes has been recognized as an industry leader for innovation, style, and design since 1969. They are constantly delivering homes to families that feature timeless elegance, modern functionality, and refreshing lifestyle options. Backed by one of the industry’s best sales-to-possession customer service programs, they take great pride in creating houses that truly feel like a home while taking great pride in treating every customer like a member of their family.

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addition with affordable options starting in the $300K range and going all the way up to the luxurious Cypress show home in Harbour Landing. Pacesetter has two show homes open in Regina: The Cypress at 4844 McCombie Crescent, and The Brisbane open at 218 Brookview Drive. In addition, they have numerous homes already under construction that are available for immediate sale with possession dates ranging from midDecember to the spring.

“Everything was just great from start to finish. As far as the after sales service, it was second to none. We certainly do not hesitate to tell other people about Pacesetter Homes and the great service we received.”

Pacesetter is currently offering a variety of housing options in Regina including affordable laned homes, two-storeys, bilevels and bungalows. Each of them has been designed from the start with a certain goal in mind, and all of them provide beauty at affordable prices. Of course, Pacesetter can make some changes to the basic floor plan to accommodate your needs, and you can personalize your home with colour, floor coverings, cabinets, countertops, lighting, and much more.

- Joe & Tanya

Pacesetter is currently building in Harbour Landing, Fairways West and Westhill Park

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If you’re curious to learn more about Pacesetter Homes, you can visit their website at www.PacesetterRegina.com, or find them on Facebook by searching Pacesetter Homes Regina. However, the best way to experience Pacesetter is in one of their show homes. Remember – 4844 McCombie Crescent (Harbour Landing) and 218 Brookview Drive (Fairways West).

Their show homes are open longer for your convenience; Monday through Thursday from 5 – 8 p.m. and Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays from 1 – 5 p.m. Fridays by appointment only. Or, if you prefer, give their office a call at 565-4663 (HOME).

When you’re looking to acquire or build a new home, you really need to consider working with the professionals at Pacesetter Homes. New to Regina with more than 60 years of experience and thousands of satisfied customers. FHR

The Cypress

NOW OPEN

Harbour Landing – the ‘Cypress’ Show Home 4844 McCombie Crescent Show Home Hours: Sat., Sun. & Holidays 1 PM – 5 PM Monday – Thursday: 5 PM – 8 PM Friday – Appointment Only This luxurious two-storey awaits the entertaining owners who will call this place home. A grand two-storey entrance welcomes all guests and leads them into an open great room with 16’ ceilings and large windows. You can cook up a storm in the gourmet kitchen with plenty of counter-space and built-in cooktop and oven, then serve in your architecturally divided dining room. The second floor features a lofted TV room which overlooks the foyer and great room. The owner’s suite offers a spacious walk-in closet and deluxe private bath with corner jetted tub. This 2,331 sq. ft. home has it all!

The Brisbane

NOW OPEN

218 Brookview Drive- Fairways West This contemporary and functional three-bedroom home is perfect for any family. A grand island with eating area is any chef’s dream. The great room is separated from the kitchen by striking columns which make a statement in this open floor plan. The loft style family room provides a quaint area to escape the everyday stresses. At 2,101 sq. ft. there is room for any growing family.

The Granville

213 Foxtail Street- Fairways West Pacesetter Homes 659 Park St. Regina, Sk. 306.565.(HOME) 4663 www.pacesetterregina.com

IMMEDIATE POSSESSION- $444,900 (GST INCLUDED) This functional family home will suit any family’s needs whether large or just beginning. Starting with the expansive, open entry way, to the open kitchen with island that is sure to please the chef in the family, this house has room to entertain. The large great room is a central place to relax and entertain. Upstairs are 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and laundry room.

Live in air you love!

Purify, fragrance and eliminate odours, all without chemicals or sprays.

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1275 Broad Street | Regina Saskatchewan | 306.352.3916 | www.basketcases.ca

condo living

A VERSATILE REALTOR TO NAVIGATE REGINA’S MANY MARKET OPTIONS

By Mackenzie Brooks. Photos by Calvin Fehr askatchewan is a booming province.

Just ask Janine Wilson. With 18 years experience in Saskatchewan’s real estate market, Janine has seen its ups and can attest that our province is worth the investment for more than just real estate – invest for a real life experience.

Trading up to a new home also means trading up to a new lifestyle. And buyers know that they are investing in a true professional when they invest in Janine Wilson.

Research If you are looking for options in this market,

Janine Wilson offers you not only options in value, but also in service. Because Janine’s business is as established as her business acumen, she knows how to best service, negotiate and guide your real estate transaction, whether you are a first-time buyer, a resale buyer or if you are investing in a pre-built or custom-built home created exactly to your family’s specifications.

“I am much more than an MLS listing realtor; I sell and list through HomeLife Crawford Realty, build homes through Crawford Homes and I can offer Janson custom built homes. I’m definitely not

your average real estate agent.” she said.

“There was a time when realtors only needed to be listed on MLS, but because Saskatchewan’s buyers and the real estate market are now more sophisticated, a more sophisticated realtor is needed to navigate the ins and outs of every aspect of your real estate experience. I work to get what you want, whatever it may be.”

Explore If you are thinking about exploring your options in Regina’s current real estate market, there are several things Janine Wilson can do for you. Because

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her established relationship with HomeLife Crawford Realty extends to resales and new homes (customizable, of course), Janine will find you the listing you want, and then sell the home from which you are moving. With a simplified transaction and an agent that is working for you, clients are assured a smooth and stress-free process.

If you require a condo (perhaps you’re a first time buyer, or maybe you’re ready to downsize) Janine Wilson, along with her sales team, have their finger on the pulse of the condo market via Windsor Crossing Development Corporation. In Harbour Landing, the two condo sites – 46 Forty and Crosswinds – provide multiple floor plans with a range of options. Two stories, bungalows and suites are only a few of the customizable floor plans available to you.

“What’s special about these townhouse condos is their location. Harbour Landing is an established and growing community with access to all areas of the city, providing growth for the neighbourhood and optimization of your investment,” said Janine.

“Buyers in this neighbourhood get a solid investment and find themselves in an area that retains value and will continue to grow with them as their lifestyle changes and their home ownership needs grow.” All floor plan options are available for viewing daily at 4640 Harbour Landing Drive. “The key to success is a strong sales team. Amy Walsh is a recent addition to our team. Paulette Robinson, who has been selling since Windsor Crossing’s inception, brings with her an extensive sales knowledge, expertise and a high level of customer service.”

Build When you make the decision to build new homes through Janson Homes, simplicity and ease of transaction are maintained with choices of customizable features. The single most attractive feature of a Janson-built home (and it is hard to choose just one) is the personal touch.

“I’ve been working with my sub trades for a long time and enjoy a great relationship with them,” said Janine. “Their experience and workmanship result in a quality product and I make it my business to only build with the best.” Janson-built homes are available in several floor plans, ranging in size from 1,300 to 2,400-square feet, so space is never an issue.

If you needed another reason to have Janine Wilson guide you through your next real estate transaction, here it is: top-notch, professional lending services available through Danielle Wilson at Dominion Lending Centre. “Danielle is a mortgage expert,” said

s

Janine. “She understands that financing your new home can be difficult to navigate.

Her services are free of charge and as a broker she has access to reduced rates and options not available from traditional lending institutions.”

When working with a mortgage expert like Danielle Wilson, you are guaranteed unbiased advice from a professional who has experience in all aspects of Real Estate.

With Danielle, you are guaranteed a relationship with a broker you can trust to find you the perfect mortgage for your lifestyle and your needs.

“Danielle puts you first,” said Janine. “She is very good at what she does, and clients gain an additional team member working for them. It’s a big plus to have team members with extensive experience and market-inside knowledge working for you.”

JANINE WILSON MLS ® REALTOR® 100-533 Victoria Ave www.janinewilson.ca

JANINE WILSON

If you’re in the market for a new home, a condo, a new mortgage or even new ideas and fresh options, Janine Wilson wants to guide you. Bring your questions to Janine and her team to research, explore and build where you want to go.

JANINE WILSON Drop in on Janine at 533 MLS ® REALTOR® www.janinewilson.ca.

For mortgage 100-533 Victoria Ave www.janinewilson.ca www.daniellewilson.ca.

FHR

537-3200

One Call Does It All! One Call Does • Condos •Call Resale (MLS) One Does It All! • Relocation • New Build • Condos • Resale (MLS) It All! • Relocation • New Build Victoria advice,

Avenue or find Danielle

online online

Danielle Wilson MLS® REALTOR® and Mortgage Broker Broker # 315890 www.daniellewilson.ca 306.536.0027

at at

MLS ® REALTOR® 537-3200

100-533 Victoria Ave

JANINE WILSON www.janinewilson.ca

MLS ® REALTOR® 537-3200 100-533 Victoria Ave www.janinewilson.ca

537-3200

Janine Wilson MLS® REALTOR® 100-533 Victoria Ave. 306.537.3200 (MLS) www.janinewilson.ca

• Condos • Resale • Relocation • New Build

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DANIELLE WILSON-CREASER

DEVELOPMENT CORP.

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MLS ® REALTOR® and 536-0027 MORTGAGE BROKER

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MLS ® REALTOR® and MORTGAGE BROKER www.daniellewilson.ca

536-0027

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MLS ® REALTOR® and MORTGAGE BROKER www.daniellewilson.ca

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MLS ® REALTOR® DANIELLE WILSON-CREASER 100-533 Victoria Ave MLS ® REALTOR® and www.janinewilson.ca

536-0027

MORTGAGE BROKER 537-3200 www.daniellewilson.ca

536-0027

• Condos • Resale (MLS) • Relocation • New Build

WINDSOR CROSSING DEVELOPMENT CORP.

DANIELLE WILSON-CREASER FineHomes 89 MLS ® REALTOR® and MORTGAGE BROKER

REGINA

design and renovations

QUALITY STUCCO PURE AND SIMPLE “Passionate” company aims to do it right, do it best—and change the way Reginans think about stucco

By Edward Willett. Photos by Calvin Fehr

om and Mary Strymecki are passionate about stucco.

Or, more specifically, passionate about quality stucco, something they feel has been sadly lacking in Saskatchewan.

“There’s a huge problem with the way companies here do their work,” Mary says. “A lot of people are running around doing stucco, but most of them don’t 90

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know the proper way to do it.”

With their business, Stucco By Tom, the Strymeckis hope to change that. In fact, their mission is nothing less than to be the leading stucco provider in the Regina market, and they’ve got a straightforward plan to achieve that: “Quality—Pure and Simple.”

“We’re here because we think we can do

better,” Mary says. “What customers are being told is ‘good enough,’ but that’s not good enough in our eyes.”

More than 30 years’ experience Together, the Strymeckis have more than 30 years’ experience in the construction industry. Mary, the president and business manager, was born in Regina to

a family with many members who have owned or still own construction-industry businesses, so she’s been involved in construction since she was very young (she began as a painter).

After training in interior design, she, too, owned her own company, Pacific Edge Construction Services. In 2004 she moved to Kamloops, B.C., where she worked as a project manager for Northstar Builders, overseeing the construction of two seniors’ complexes, one in Kamloops and one in Regina.

Tom, the company’s project manager, started as a laborer and then plasterer for Terry’s Exterior’s in Maple Ridge, B.C. In 1996 he moved to Edmonton where he began working for California Stucco, and then moved to H&H Stucco. He took the expert skills he developed in Edmonton back to B.C. to open his own company, and it was there he met and married Mary.

In B.C., the building code is far stricter than it has been in Saskatchewan, which is still moving toward full adoption of the National Building Code of Canada. When the Strymeckis compared how stucco was being done in B.C. with how it was being

“We’re really passionate about stucco. Putting a stucco finish on the outside of a house is, ‘Wow!’ It’s something to be really proud of.”

- Mary Strymecki of Stucco by Tom

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done in Saskatchewan, “We were quite appalled,” Mary says. So they moved to Mary’s home province to make things better.

In Saskatchewan, Stucco by Tom is pioneering stucco that fully complies with the National Building Code. For example, Mary says, “We’re one of the only companies that uses a full, three-quarter-inch plaster stop, rather than a half-inch or five-eighths.” Another example: “We don’t use wood trims because they can never be properly sealed,” which leads to problems with mold and rot.

Three main systems Stucco by Tom installs three main systems of stucco: cementitious, EIFS and ICF. The cementitious system is the most common in residential homes. It consists of applying building paper, stucco wire and metal stops and flashings over a wood sheathing substrate, followed

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by two layers of cement and finally an acrylic stucco finish.

“We specialize in homes with a smooth acrylic finish,” Mary notes. “We don’t like to do the old cement-style finish. It is going backward in our books. For a small price change, we don’t understand why anyone would pay for a Cadillac and then be happy with a Volkswagen. If you pay for a Cadillac you should get a Cadillac!”

And of course, the company stands behind its work: “We offer a three year warranty on the envelope,” Mary says,” and there’s a five year warranty on our work, and the product we use.”

For an even better guarantee, customers can go to the energy-efficient EIFS (Exterior Insulation and Finish System), which has a full 12-year warranty.

Though more common in commercial buildings, this is gaining favor for residential buildings, too. It begins with a roll-on vapor and moisture barrier over wood sheathing or an exterior drywall product. Next, a layer

of EPS (expanded polystyrene) foam is attached to the building with a cementbased adhesive. This foam is covered with another layer of the adhesive, along with a layer of mesh made of a specially designed coated glass-fibre fabric. Once this dries, an acrylic stucco finish is applied.

Stucco by Tom belongs to the Quality Assurance Program of the EIFS Council of Canada, a governing body that insures member companies are installing EIFS properly.

“There’s no point in doing something energy efficient if you’re not going to follow everything,” Mary says. “A lot of companies skip some steps, and then there are problems down the road.”

The third system is ICF (Insulated Concrete Forms), which is similar to the EIFS system. Insulated concrete forms already have foam on them, but Stucco by Tom adds another layer.

Educating the customer Sound technical? Don’t worry: Mary and Tom will make sure you understand exactly what’s being done, why it’s being done—

and why it costs a little bit more.

“We’re really pushing to educate people that there is a better way out there,” Mary says. “So many people are getting ripped off or getting cheated.Contractors should be held a little more accountable, to ensure Saskatchewan doesn’t become a haven for bad work.

“Everybody should be following the National Building Code and everybody should be giving the consumer the best job possible. We know we’re more expensive, but we’ve never had a single customer complain about the quality we give them on their house.”

More than just stucco Their focus on “quality—pure and simple” is now moving beyond “just” stucco.

“We have an excellent stone mason that works with us now, so we can offer that service to our customers,” Mary says.

“And the contractor that does our paper and wire work, also does soffit and fascia.”

Tom and Mary try to be as accommodating as possible when it comes to finding other trades to help their customers.

“A lot of customers really like that because they don’t have to fish around and find four or five different companies.

You can never be sure three different companies can schedule together. One company, they do it and they’re out.”

The company’s focus on quality is serving it well. “We did very well last year, and we have a huge year coming up,” Mary says, adding that while their focus is on Regina, they have also done work as far away as Kenosee Lake, Weyburn and Shaunavon.

And she and Tom see a lot more work on the horizon. “Tom worked the boom in Calgary and Edmonton,” Mary notes.

“He says this is just the beginning of the boom in Saskatchewan.”

Stucco by Tom is here to stay, Mary says.

“We’re Saskatchewan people now. We’re not fly-by-night. We’re here to provide the best quality we can, to keep things

easy for the customer and show that Saskatchewan is a ‘have province,’ that people in Saskatchewan can have it as good as anybody.

so that when they pull up and see their house they are smiling—inside and out!”

FHR Tom Strymecki Tom Strymecki Project Manager Project Manager

“We’re really passionate about stucco.

Putting a stucco finish on the outside of a house is, ‘Wow!’ It’s something to be really proud of.

Stucco by Tom (2010) INC.

Stucco by Tom (2010) INC. Box 4242 Regina, SK S4P 3W6 www.stuccobytom.com

‘that stucco guy’ Box 4242 Specializing in Acrylic EIFS - ICF

‘that stucco guy’

Regina, SK S4P 3W6 Tel. 306.737.2261 Fax: 306.789.2533 www.stuccobytom.com stuccobytom2010@gmail.com

Regina, Sask Specializing in Tel. 306.737.2261 Acrylic 306.789.2533 Mary Strymecki Mary: 306.737.7400 | Fax: Tom: 306.737.2261 EIFS - ICF stuccobytom2010@gmail.com www.stuccobytom.com Stucco by Tom (2010) INC. Business Manager

“That’s the most important thing. We’re here to give the customer a quality job,

Box 4242 Regina, SK S4P 3W6 www.stuccobytom.com

‘that stucco guy’ Specializing in Acrylic EIFS - ICF

Tel. 306.737.7400

Fax: 306.789.2533 Mary Strymecki stuccobytom2010@gmail.com

Business Manager

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Stucco by Tom (2010) INC. Box 4242 Regina, SK S4P 3W6

QUALITY CABINETS AND COUNTERTOPS FOR ANY BUDGET

By FHR Staff

Photo by Calvin Fehr

Garett Adam, owner/operator of JAGG Specialized Coatings Ltd.

uality countertops and cabinets are crucial for the look of a home. Now it’s possible to have impressive looking results at a reasonable cost. JAGG Specialized Coatings Ltd. will refinish the current ones. The work is done quickly and professionally, the results are impressive, and the cost is almost always a fraction of what it would be if you were to have the items replaced.

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Photos courtesy of Jagg Specialised Coatings Ltd.

the current decor—there is no need to to tear apart the room just to replace the bathtub and tub surround. Instead, Adam can refinish the surface for much, much less than a replacement would cost. All types of bathtubs and showers can be refinished, whether they’re made from fibreglass, porcelain, cast iron or marble.

Garett Adam, owner and operator of JAGG Specialized Coatings Ltd., notes that homeowners are often first attracted by the savings they will receive by refinishing. “You’ll typically save 30 per cent to 80 per cent of the cost for conventional remodelling.”

The countertop and tub product is very high quality, and it comes with a fiveyear warranty. “The counters and tubs will easily last another 10 to 15 years,” Adam says. It’s not just used in private homes, either. “The material really stands up well in a commercial environment. I’ve installed it for the Hotel Saskatchewan, the Travel Inn, the Knights Inn and Silver Sage Housing.”

There are many different countertop colours to choose from, so regardless of decorating themes, there will be something to match it. There are several

finishes that look like stone. Adam points out that with these choices, homeowners get the best of both worlds. “You’ll get the look of granite for less than arborite.”

In addition to the clean, beautiful look of the finished product, there is the added benefit that it can be done very quickly. “As time goes on, the countertop coatings have evolved too,” says Adam.

“It used to be 48 hours before you could use them. Now you can use them the day they’re installed.”

The work can be done on almost any existing surface. Adam has resurfaced tile, cultured marble and laminate countertops. .

The refinishing possibilities also extend to the bathroom. If the bathtub needs replacing—possibly because it is damaged, old, or the wrong colour for

In addition to the counter and bathroom refinishing, Adam also works with cabinets. “I reface the cabinets with new doors and drawer fronts,” he says. “I put a new laminate or veneer over all the frames of the cabinets to match the doors.” Your kitchen will look brand new. The standard five-year manufacturer’s warranty on the doors has increased now to 10 years, as the quality continually improves.

Adam can provide virtually anything you would like with the cabinets, from hidden hinges to soft closes. “Plus, if the current drawers slide wood on wood, I install new drawers with slides,” he says.

If you are happy with the style of your cabinet doors and drawer fronts, but they’re looking a little worn, Adam can refinish them. In this process the doors and drawer fronts are removed and refinished off site. There are many ways to refinish, including a clear coat, a solid colour and an antique glaze look.

With the countertops and the bathtubs, homeowners will notice not only the affordable price, but also the professional workmanship and beautiful result.

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Photos courtesy of JAGG Specialized Coatings Ltd.

“I very much enjoy being able to provide this service for everyone who wants it. For very reasonable prices you get the high quality look of granite. It’s a good deal for everyone.” says Adam.

Adam is well-qualified to provide the work to his customers; he has both the training and the experience. He travelled in order to become qualified for the work before offering it to customers. “I took training in Connecticut for the countertop and bathtub refinishing. Then later, when I decided to work with cabinets, I trained in Michigan.”

He has been working in this field for nearly five years now. “I started in 2007,” he says.

“At first I focused on the countertops and bath tubs, but there was enough of a demand for work with cabinets that in 2010 I began providing that service as well.”

The product is so popular that Adam has now hired another full-time person year96

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finished result. There is also a sample sheet of of colours for the cabinet refinishing. Whatever help is needed, Adam is happy to provide, and he’s sure the final result will be something that homeowners will enjoy for years.

round, in addition to a few extra people over the busy summer season. He has also managed to accommodate many requests by long-distance clients. “I have a partner in Saskatoon who handles the work in that area, and I’ve travelled as far as Kamsack and Estevan.”

When homeowners are planning what they need, Adam will bring them samples of the many available options. The countertop samples come in one-foot squares for easy visualization of the

“You’ll wind up with an amazing look,” says Adam. “And it’s a simple process for you as a homeowner. It’s a lot less hassle than tearing apart your whole kitchen or bathroom, and for substantially less money.”

For more information on JAGG Specialized Coatings Ltd., call Garett Adam at 5365682, E-mail him at JAGG@sasktel.net, or see www.JAGG.ca.

JAGG Specialized Coatings Ltd. Garett Adam 306.536.5682 jagg@sasktel.net www.jagg.ca

Out with the old and in with the new...

General Contracting Concrete Specialist ( Concrete countertops) Interior/ Exterior Home Renovations

Dustin Taylor Rockstar Construction

Rockstar Construction | 306.596.2820 rockstarconstruction@live.com www.rockstarconstruction.ca

THE TEAM OF KELTURN DRYWALL

Generous.

It’s is not a word often used to describe a drywall company, but if there is an exception, it is Kelturn Drywall. Each year, the Regina-based business becomes more involved with organizations that are important to the community that supports them. Kelturn provided all the labour and Kenroc provided the drywall for the Leibel field canteen in Regina, and, for the past two years, has been a major sponsor for the Alzheimer’s’ Association, as part of a proud, five-year sponsorship agreement.

A new organization that Kelturn has teamed up with is Rebuilding Dreams. Kelturn partnered with Kenroc Building Material to donate all of the drywall and labour both for the organization’s current project and for those to come. Kelturn donates to more than a dozen major groups in the area and are proud to have the opportunity

KELTURN Drywall Ltd.

to give back even more to the community in the years ahead.

1344 Cornwall St. | Regina, Sk. | 306.539.2121 www.kelturndrywall.com

All the Possibilities...

The Caledonian Curling Club caters for all occasions, and can accomodate up to 900 people. Enjoy our catering for a wedding, office party, social, or fundraiser to make your evening extra special!

The KMC Banquet Hall is perfect for weddings, cabaret’s and other special events. It is wheelchair accessible, and it can accomodate any number of people as it can be sectioned to form smaller spaces. Call us today to reserve your special occasion today.

Caledonian Curling Club 2225 Sandra Schmirler Way Regina Sk. 306.525.8171 email: info@callieclub.com www.callieclub.com

Choosing a Back-up Generator for Your Home

By Shell Busey

o avoid the inconvenience of a power outage, a back-up generator is a great way to ensure that you are never without power.

A home generator can be useful for backup electricity anywhere there are frequent power outages. But the demand is increasing among homeowners particularly since most Canadian homes rely on electricity to operate their heating systems.

There are Busey a few important items to

By Shell consider when choosing a generator since they can also be very dangerous if they are not installed or operated properly.

Generators range in size, type and price so it is worthwhile to shop around and talk to various distributors and your electrician to determine a unit that will suit your needs. Typically, the more power required the more costly they are. Smaller, portable generators are great for powering the essentials like the refrigerator and microwave while a permanent standby system can power everything in your home. Typically, the lower power and portable units use gasoline, whereas larger units, especially permanent installations, will likely use propane or natural gas.

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A major question for homeowners considering a backup generator is choosing between gasoline or propane as well as one of the more convenient fuels, natural gas. Each source has its own pros and cons but the decision will depend on what a home already has installed. If you live in an area where natural gas is available this would be the best for you since it would be the most convenient and requires less maintenance.

For homes without natural gas, propane is a good alternative. Both natural gas and propane tend to last longer and burn

cleaner than their gasoline counterparts.

Gasoline generators are by far the most common type since gasoline is readily available and still remains a relatively inexpensive fuel in comparison to propane, but a gas generator usually requires frequent maintenance and storage of gasoline which has a relatively short shelf life.

10 hours. When the power goes out its absolutely critical that you keep the generator away from your house especially from doors, windows and enclosed areas. It’s important to follow the manufactures directions. Never try to attach a generator directly to the homes wiring system yourself. To use a portable generator without running extension cords you have to hire an electrician to install a manual transfer switch off your main circuit panel and install a dedicated inlet to power the subpanel. This is not a DIY project.

Permanent Generators: Standby generators are powered by natural gas or propane and they’re directly wired into the home’s circuit panel so they can start automatically during a power outage.

They are more powerful and quieter then their portable counterparts. When power resumes, the system flips back to the house circuit and powers down the generator.

Hire an Electrician Installation of a generator is a job for the experts. All portable or fixed generators must be connected to the residential grid using a proper CSA-approved transfer switch installed by a registered certified electrician. An electrical permit is required for the installation. Never connect a backup power system without a transfer switch that disconnects your home from the municipal power supply.

This is to protect electric utility field crews from being electrocuted by your home power system when working on municipal lines.

What size generator do you need?

The first step is to determine the amount of power you require during a power outage and that depends on how many appliances you need to run.

This will determine the size or wattage of generator you will require. You may decide that all you need is to provide power the essential items such as to your sump pump, refrigerator and furnace.

Portable versus permanent

Permanent generators are generally designed to power an entire large home for the duration of a typical outage. This is the best option if you frequently lose power and want to keep most of your appliances running. You don’t have to worry about storing gas and running cords, but the drawback is the cost and they must be installed by licensed electrician.

Portable Generators: Portable generators can replace part of a household load during an electrical outage and they are the simplest and least expensive back up power system. When the power goes out you have to start up a gas powered generator and plug in your appliance using an extension cord. The down side is you are limited to the number of appliances that can run at any one time, they are noisy, hard to move and you have to start up and maintain the unit.

They do require fuel so consider how long a tank of fuel will last. This can range from just a few hours to up to

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Protect against CO poisoning The primary hazards to avoid when using a generator are (CO) poisoning.

Each year, people die in incidents related to portable generator use. Never use a generator inside homes, garages, crawlspaces, sheds, or similar areas, even when using fans or opening doors and windows for ventilation. Be sure the generator isn’t positioned outside an open window, which can allow fumes into the home.

Install battery-operated (or with battery back-up) CO alarms in your home, according to the manufacturer’s instructions. CO alarms should be certified to the requirements of the latest safety standards (UL 2034, IAS 6-96, or CSA 6.19.01).

Before you buy, check with local officials since your municipality may have restrictions on the noise caused by your generator (good neighbour policy).

FHR Shell Busey is the popular host of the HouseSmart radio program live Monday evenings from 8 - 9 p.m. online at www.AM650Radio. com. He also runs a monthly online newsletter and contractor referral service at www.AskShell.com.

y e s u B l l She

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A lifetime of memories star t in your kitchen.

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THE KEY TO ANY SUCCESSFUL DESIGN PROJECT IS IN THE PLANNING Sometimes, you need to wait for the stars to align. Also, don’t start any projects when Mercury goes into Retrograde (but that’s a story for another day!)

Kitchens and bathrooms: Take 3 to 4 months to properly plan out and then six to 12 weeks (depending on scope) to make happen. Setting up a temporary utility sink in place of the old kitchen is a life saver!

By Meredith heron

I

n design, we are always working ahead.

On average, we as designers are always looking three to four months ahead and planning for that season. In late summer, we are thinking holiday rush and now that the holidays are upon us, I am already finding myself thinking about what spring projects need planning.

Additions/Demolitions: Anything that requires permits you should allow three to six months for planning. Depending on your local bylaws this process could become considerably lengthier if you have to apply for zoning changes. For major renovations, you should also factor into your planning the time what it will take to find alternative living arrangements.

the end of a renovation project no one ever says, “Wow, that went faster than I expected,” nor do they say, “Wow, that cost less than I expected!” Contingencies in timelines, budgets and design plans are always necessary if you are going to have a successful experience.

So, with 2012 on the horizon, if you are considering taking on a design project for your own home, the quiet month of December is actually a great time to reach out and begin the investigation process with a design professional. The best contractors are usually taken by the end of January for the spring and summer months so keep that in mind. Maybe this year you’ll find a new kitchen or bathroom in your stocking—if you’ve been good that is. FHR

Here’s to a Gorgeous 2012!

If you think you will need to live elsewhere for six months, make it eight months. At

The key to any successful design project is in the planning. I always advise prospective clients to invest in as much planning as possible when it comes to their projects.

In the thick of it all, having a good plan to fall back on will steer you through the rough patches that inevitably occur over the course of any design project.

If you are considering a renovation project small or large for 2012, here are some things to take into consideration in terms of planning your timelines. Remember, just because you finally make the decision to embark on a project doesn’t mean that the right designer (ahem me), contractor or tradesperson will be ready and waiting to take your project on the moment you decide to hit go!

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ICE DAM PROOF YOUR ATTIC And keep water out of your home in winter. f you’re like most people, you probably don’t spend much time in the attic. In fact, the vast majority of Canadians go up to their attics only when dealing with a leaky roof or animal intruders, such as bats or squirrels.

During the winter however, attics are vulnerable to another problem: ice damming. Ice dams are accumulations of ice that become visible at the edge of your roof or in the gutters. The ice dam can actually extend up the roof for quite a distance as a thin slab of ice under the snow cover on your roof. Once they’ve set in, ice dams can cause water from melting snow to be trapped between this thin layer of ice and your shingles. From there, the melt water can work its way under your shingles and then seep into the attic and your home.

Houses more prone to ice dams often have major leakage of warm air from the home into the attic, inadequate insulation— or both. They also can have complicated roof shapes with many valleys and dormers that can accumulate more snow and ice than other parts of the roof. Complicated roof shapes can also funnel large amounts of snow melt water into small areas which can lead to larger ice dams or more serious leakage problems.

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WHERE BETTER DRAWINGS LEAD TO A BETTER BUILDING EXPERIENCE SPECIALIZING IN: CUSTOM HOME DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION DRAWINGS (MODERATE TO ELABORATE HOMES)

DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION DRAWINGS ALSO AVAILABLE FOR: ADDITIONS RENOVATIONS

Common and potentially dangerous approaches to solving ice damming problems typically range from attaching electric cables to attacking the ice with an axe. However, each of these also comes with its own drawbacks and risks ranging from damaging your shingles, roof deck and eavestroughing to incurring serious injuries caused by slipping and falling off the roof or a ladder. They also do not solve the underlying cause of the ice damming problem.

Fortunately, there are more effective solutions to help you protect your roof, house and your health—and potentially save thousands of dollars in roof repairs.

Depending on your roof and the age of your home, these solutions include: • Air sealing the attic floor between your house and the attic space.

• Insulating your attic thoroughly with the best insulation you can afford.

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BASEMENT PLANS SECONDARY SUITES

• When re-roofing, waterproof your roof by first placing a self-sealing membrane over the roof deck (extended up an adequate distance from the eaves) before the new shingles are installed.

By spending the time to fix the problem properly the first time, you’ll help prevent ice damming from occurring. FHR Source: CMHC

CHRISTOPHER EVANS ARCHITECTURAL & BUILDING TECHNOLOGIST REGINA, SASKATCHEWAN

306.531.2541 WWW.CJEVANSHOMEDESIGNS.COM

EXPERTAdvice DREAM KITCHENS You need a new kitchen, but where do you start?

are the heart of the home, and there are a lot of options.

The next step is to take accurate measurements of your existing kitchen, and take them to a kitchen specialist, such as myself, or one of my colleagues at KitchenCraft.

Shannon Shaughnessey KitchenCraft 1434 Broad St. Regina, Sk. 306.522.8949 www.kitchencraft.com

This is one of the most common things I hear from the homeowners: their home is older, and some of the fixtures are starting to show their age, or perhaps the kitchen was never really functional, and they have finally decided to do something about it.

The very first thing that you need to do when planning a kitchen renovation is to know why you want to do it. If there are usability issues, write them down so that you can search for solutions. If there are particular colours that you want to use, get a colour sample. If you must have a specific floor covering in mind, then get a sample of it. Scour magazines and the internet for pictures of kitchens that you love. If you are overwhelmed by the choices available, or you just don’t know what you want, don’t worry. Your kitchen consultant can guide you through the process. Kitchens

Kitchencraft has been in business for more than 40 years, and we do more than 500 kitchens in Regina every year. When you visit our showroom, you can not only browse through a vast variety of door styles and colours, but also walk inside our complete kitchen displays to get a feel for different styles of cabinets, as well as how some of the accessories can impact a kitchen.

Together, we can design a kitchen layout that perfectly suits your needs, budget and taste. The average cabinetry part of the kitchen renovation costs between $12,000 and $20,000, so it is important to spend the time selecting things you want and tailoring it just for you. If you are renovating, with the aim of improving the resale value of your home, select popular items that will please the general buyer. FHR Shannon Shaughnessy is a design consultant with KitchenCraft Cabinetry. She enjoys working with homeowners to build the kitchen of their dreams on a budget that they can afford. In addition to kitchen cabinets, she often helps clients with custom storage solutions, media centres and bathroom cabinets.

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a better way to go...

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Control Your Temperature Insulate your pocket book s you step out of the comfort of your home into the crisp morning air, signs are all around us that the seasons are changing. Becoming educated about the insulation factors that window coverings provide, will help you make the perfect decision for your home to keep the cold out and the heat in. Inefficient windows can add 10 to 25 per cent to heating bills and up to

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a whopping 75 per cent to summer air conditioning bills!

Energy saving window coverings can cut your home heating and cooling costs in a number of ways. They block the sun out in summer (when sunlight turns into unwanted heat), and allow sunlight in during the winter (when you want the solar heating). They improve insulation,

creating an extra layer of still air between your windows and rooms, cutting heat transfer in both hot and cold weather.

And they control the amount of light coming in, so you can take advantage of natural lighting where possible, without losing heat to the outdoors in winter, or overheating the room on hot summer days.

Year-Round Energy Saving Window Treatments

Cellular Shades

Lining that fabric will add another layer and further enhance its insulation effect.

Cellular shades, otherwise known as honeycomb shades, are durable, costeffective window treatments designed to insulate your home against energy loss and noise. Window coverings with a honeycomb or cellular construction can block up to 86 per cent of the heat gain and 80 per cent of heat loss.

Shutters Shutters have immense value, as they become a fixture in decorating, or “furniture” of the window. With options to recreate trim, a vast array of custom colours, and PVC or wood finishes, customers can design to meet their budget. A good quality shutter panel, when closed, creates a heat barrier that will perform well even in the worst window scenario.

Fabric Window Coverings Drapery and roman shade window coverings, when coupled with insulated lining are a great way to add warmth to a room, but also increase the insulation value of a window. A drapery by itself will provide more insulation than the window alone by forming an air pocket between the window and the drapery.

Window Film Window film has recently become popular for residential energy-minded consumers. Energy saving insulating window film with low e-coating will significantly lower both your home’s cooling and heating bills. Window film is a thin layer or coating that can be applied on the inside glass surface of any window or door. As the sun’s heat contacts the surface, energy-saving window film acts as a sunscreen to reflect and absorb the amount of heat that passes through the glass. Low e window film is one of the most effective year round energy saving window treatments, reducing solar heat gain in the summer by as much as 72 per cent and insulating up to 55 per cent of household heat during the winter months.

Indoor and Outdoor Solar Shades This durable, very easy to clean roller shade is composed of a weave of fabrics that control heat, glare and UV rays entering the home. The most appealing factor to customers is that this screen allows you to still have a view of the outdoors while in use. Light coloured fabrics pro-

vide more heat reduction and diffuse interior light. Dark coloured fabrics provide more glare reduction and a better view to the outside. Depending on the weave the summer heat will be reduced by approximately 75 per cent, and the window insulation in the cold will increase up to 50 per cent.

New energy-efficient windows are longterm investments that take years to eventually pay for themselves. The right combination of energy saving window coverings and treatments can almost instantly provide home energy savings.

Window treatments don't just reduce heat loss and heat gain, they also enhance home décor and all at a fraction of the cost of replacement windows.

Budget Blinds’ free in-home consultations are a delight for clients. It is a low pressure meeting with the consultants helping you reach your design goals, providing education and fun in choosing the perfect product and colour to accent your home.

Call for your free-in home consultation today! FLR

534 University Park Drive, Regina, Sk. Phone: 306.949.2300 e: reginaadmin@yourbudgetblinds.ca www.budgetblinds.com

Sharon

Leanne

Tracy

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Northgate Mall | 489 Albert St. N. | Regina, Sk. | 306.352.7773 Regina - Lakeview | 3418 Hill Ave. | Regina, Sk. | 306.359.7773 20 Fairford St. W. | Moose Jaw, Sk. | 306.693.7773

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(306) 525-9801

We wish you and yours…..New Dreams to fulfill, New Goals to reach, and New Joys to discover!

Thank you for the difference you make….All the Best in 2012!

Twelve amazing builders, one Parade of Homes.

A Community of Choice

Showhome hours: Mon-Thurs: 7-9 pm | Weekends & Holidays: 1-5 pm harbourlanding.ca | P: (306) 347-8130 | sheinek@dundeerealty.com