FineHomes Saskatoon Fall 2011

FALL 2011 ll VOLUME 2 ISSUE 3

HOMES BY

DAON FINE HOMES EXCLUSIVE:

SHANNON TWEED’S BEVERLY HILLS MANSION MAKE-OVER Q & A: CHEF MICHAEL SMITH INTERIOR DESIGN: MEREDITH HERON RENOVATIONS: SHELL BUSEY GARDENING: KEN BEATTIE SASKATOON PARADE OF HOMES HOME ELECTRONICS / AUTOMATION SPECIAL: WARMAN FEATURE

“Elegant Designs, Superior Quality, And a Great Building Experience” “Bonnie was fantastic to work with. She was always available and made sure that we were a priority.”

Kim & Gus Fomradas “Bonnie listened to what we wanted - then offered suggestions & ideas - & finally she guided us in selecting designs, layouts, colors etc. Bonnie was very pleasant to work with, very dedicated & helpful right up to giving us the keys to our new house.”

Gary & Hilda Johnson “Bonnie put in an incredible effort to make sure that all of our wishes were incorporated into the construction. She met with us on numerous occasions at all hours. She was in regular contact with us via e-mail to see if we had any questions and to keep us updated on the progress of construction.”

Peter & Joanna Kapusta Contact: Bonnie Crozon, Ehrenburg Homes New Home Sales Representative

230-2510 Bonnie has her “Gold Sales Achievement” with the Saskatoon Regional Home Builders Association Won the “Best New Home Sales Representative in Saskatoon & Area in 2006” Community Builder Award 2010.

www.ehrenburg.com www.ehrenburg.com/bonniecrozon

FirstWord

By Thom Barker, Fine Homes Saskatoon Editor I’ve been in Saskatoon a little over a year now and it’s really starting to feel like home.

When you’ve lived a somewhat nomadic lifestyle for, ahem, several decades, you develop certain habits, such as not unpacking all your stuff… just in case.

And you don’t necessarily put all of the finishing touches on your living space. For example, we never got around to putting up curtains on our patio doors. Of course, if you read my column in the summer edition, you may suspect a natural disposition toward procrastination and/or convenient incompetence. Nevertheless, I finally got sick of looking at those bare windows and being blinded by the late afternoon sun.

Now, I’m not much of a handyman—but I can play a guitar just like a-ringin’ a bell—and adding another element of difficulty to the situation was the fact that we live in a concrete building. Hanging drapes, it turns out, is not the simplest project here.

Fortunately, I just happen to be the editor of a magazine about homes. I’ve always been impressed by, and enjoyed reading, the stories about the amazing people and businesses in the Saskatoon and area homes industry, but—who knew?—I was also learning a tonne of stuff along the way. Everything from complementing our existing décor, to matching colours and patterns, to light diffusion, to the insulation effect, to the myriad types of treatments available and where to get all the stuff I needed.

One thing I did not specifically learn was exactly how to hang the curtains (note to self: possible editorial feature). Even better, though—I mentioned, not much of a handyman—I knew exactly who to turn to for advice and/or professional intervention.

Another thing I learned is what a fantastic resource this publication is. Whether you’re buying a new home, thinking about redecorating or renovating, looking for financing, sprucing up your garden, or just have a general interest in the subject, it’s all right here in these pages.

Volume 2 Issue 3 Fall 2011 www.finelifestyles.ca Editor Thom Barker editor@finelifestyles.ca Graphic Design and Layout Joni Gaudette joni@finelifestyles.ca In-house Design Lori Gallagher lori@finelifestyles.ca Cover Photography Lisa Landrie www.shutterbugphoto.ca Photography Christine Engel www.blackbenchproductions.com Heather Fritz www.heatherfritz.com Miranda Deck www.deckedoutphotography.com

Contributing Writers Alexandra Walld Ashleigh Mattern Braden Dupuis Candace Fox Daniel Dalman Karin Melberg Schwier Ken Beattie Linda Epstein Meredith Heron Shell Busey Suzanne Huber Tammy Ceaser Tammy Robert Advertising Consultants Cathie Watson Cathie@finelifestyles.ca Crystal Reich crystal@finelifestyles.ca Jason Booker jason@finelifestyles.ca Meagan O’Flanagan meagan@finelifestyles.ca Mike Birkland mike@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 Lifestyles Saskatoon 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 Lifestyles Saskatoon, 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.

What’sInside

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14 9 40

FEATURE STORIES 9

Cover Story: Homes by Daon

40 The Allure of the Clawfoot 50 Shannon Tweed: Beverly Hills Home Make-over

6 SHOW HOME LOCATOR MAP

59 Wired: Upscale Home Entertainment Systems 87 Merdedith Heron 102 Q&A: Chef Michael Smith 130 Ken Beattie 154 Message from Warman Mayor Sheryl Spence 135 Shell Busey

42 133 135 59 130 102

87

DEPARTMENTS 9

Homes and Properties

14

Special Feature: Parade of Homes

42 Condos 59 Special Feature: Home Electronics/Automation 89 Inner Beauty/Design 105 Dream Kitchens 133 Outdoor Living 138 Home Improvements/Renovations 156 Special Feature: Warman

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SASKATOON & AREA

SHOWHOME LOCATOR MAP 13

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12

11

71 St W

N

71 St E

16 Dr Thather Ave

Marquis

Airport Rd

45 St

an Dr

in Rd

Whitesw

Wanuske nw

Millar Ave d

Pinehou

se Dr

Cres

Central Ave Preston Ave

25 St

4A ve

Ave P

Ave H

rc

le

Dr

11

22 St

108 St

d

rR

Ker

Campus Dr

Valley Rd

8

8 St E Brairwood Rd

9 Boychuk Dr

6

Ruth St

McKercher Dr

Acadia Dr

Clarence Ave

Ave

Broadway Ave

Taylor St

Lorne

Sp

adin

aC res

Ave Fletcher Rd

7

8 St E

Kingsmere Blvd

Fairlight Dr

3

11 St W

Dundonald

11 St W

14 St E

11 5

Gray Ave

20 St

2

lvd

eB

rov

wg

lo Wil

McOrmond Dr

dina Spa

2A ve

Idylwyld Dr

Altridge Dr

33 St E

Ci

Confederation Dr

33 St W

22 St

Chappell Dr

7

e

os

r im Pr Dr

McOrmond Dr

14

Dr

Circle Dr

37 St W

Junor Ave

Hughes Dr

Dalmeny Rd

McClockin Rd

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no

Le

51 St

45 St

Ave C

1

Diefenbaker Dr

56 St

Faithful Ave

SASKATOON INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Warman R

Idylwyld Dr

60 St

10

Circle Dr

5

Preston Ave

4

16

Stonebridge Blvd Clarence Ave

Melville St

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View more showhomes at www.showhomedirectory.com a website of the Saskatoon & Region Home Builders’ Association.

1.

HAMPTON VILLAGE

NORTH RIDGE DEVELOPMENT SERENITY POINTE SALES CENTRE Located on the Corner of Willis Cres. & Cornish Road.

Terri Leatherdale 242-2434 Hours: Mon. - Thurs. 2-4 & 7-9 pm Fri., Sat., Sun. & Holidays 1-5 pm

HOMES BY DUNDEE 1322 Korol Crescent 374-6100 Hours: Mon. - Thurs. 7-9 pm Sat., Sun. & Holidays 1-5 pm NORTH RIDGE DEVELOPMENTS 107 Korol Crescent 242-2434 Hours: Mon. - Thurs. 7-9 pm Sat., Sun. & Holidays 1-5 pm

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EHRENBURG HOMES 570 Hartley Terrace 384-1473 www.ehrenburg.com by appointment only

D&S HOMES 202 Greenfield Crescent Hours: Mon. - Thurs. 7 - 9 pm Sat. & Sun. 1:30 - 5pm

INNOVATIVE RESIDENTIAL HARTFORD GREENS 406 - 715 Hart Road 270-5032 Hours: Tues. - Thurs. 5-7 pm Sat. & Sun. 2-4 pm

EHRENBURG HOMES 826 Stonebridge Common 384-1473 www.thefifteen.ca Mon – Thurs 7-9pm Sat, Sun & Holidays 2-5pm

NUTANA

HOMES BY DUNDEE 111 - 602 Cartwright Street 374-6100 Hours: Mon. - Thurs. 7-9 pm Sat., Sun. & Holidays 2-5 pm Closed Fridays

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GPD TRILLIUM PROJECT INC. Ed Machart 291-3111 SHOW SUITE LOCATED AT A102 - 415 Hunter Road Hours: Tues. - Thurs. 1-3 & 6-8 pm Sun. 1-5 pm Closed: Mon., Fri. & Sat.

GREYSTONE HEIGHTS RIVERBEND DEVELOPMENTS LTD. 2730 Main Street Roger Schmidt 241-0719 www.silverleafsuites.ca Hours: Mon. - Fri. 4:30-6:30 pm Sat. & Sun. 1-3 pm Closed: Holidays

NORTH RIDGE DEVELOPMENT 142 Ashworth Crescent 242-2434 Hours: Mon. - Thurs. 2-4 & 7-9 pm Sat., Sun. & Holidays 1-5 pm HOMES BY DUNDEE 610 Rempel Crescent 374-6100 Hours: Mon. - Thurs. 7-9 pm Sat., Sun. & Holidays 2-5 pm Closed Fridays

EASTVIEW

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J.B. Black Estates 1214 College Drive 221-2506 Hours: Wed. 6-8 pm Sat. and Sun. 2-4 pm

WILDWOOD NORTH RIDGE DEVELOPMENT KINGSWOOD MANOR 116 - 918 Heritage View David Leatherdale 242-2434 Hours: Mon. - Thurs. 2-4 & 7-9 pm Fri., Sat., Sun. & Holidays 1-5 pm

BRIARWOOD ROSEWOOD BOYCHUK HOMES 834 Ledingham Crescent Gerry Bezaire 241-2596 Joanne Stanton Hassler 260-3122 Hours: Mon. - Thurs. 7-9 pm Sat. & Sun. 2-5 pm

WARMAN

WARMAN HOMES 323 Player Crescent & 232 Warwick Crescent Children’s Wish Foundation Parade of Homes Hours: Mon.-Thurs. from 7-9pm Sat., Sun. & Holidays from 2-5pm ROCY HOMES 313 Nicklaus Drive 242-8600 by appointment only

CAMPBELL CUSTOM HOMES 286 Whalley Cres.

Colin 477-2267 www.campbellhomes.ca Hours: Sat., Sun. 2-4 pm

STONEBRIDGE

UNIVERSITY HEIGHTS AQUA TERRA CONDOMINIUMS 419 Nelson Road 222-2229 Tues-Fri 4:30-6:30pm Sat-Sun 1-4pm

WARMAN HOMES 428 Nicklaus Drive 933-9595 or 222-0137 www.warmanhomes.ca Hours: Sat. 2-5 pm or by appointment

R&D FRASER HOMES LTD. Unit 30-502 Rempel Manor Rob Burlingame 227-7523 Hours: Monday – Thursday 7-9 Sat., Sun. & Holidays 2-5 pm

THE WILLOWS

NORTH RIDGE DEVELOPMENT 203 McBeth Crescent 242-2434 Hours: Mon. - Thurs. 2-4 & 7-9 pm Sat., Sun. & Holidays 1-5 pm

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R&D FRASER HOMES LTD. 538 Dickson Lane Rob Burlingame 227-7523 Hours: Mon. - Thurs. 7-9 pm Sat., Sun. & Holidays 2-5 pm

NORTH RIDGE DEVELOPMENT WATER’S EDGE SALES CENTRE 337 – 623 Saskatchewan Crescent W. Bonnie Durrant 229-4837 Hours: Mon. - Sun. 2-5 pm Evenings by Appointment

D & S HOMES 101 – 525 Hunter Road 374-4774 Hours: Mon. - Thurs. 2 - 5 & 7 - 9 pm Sat & Sun. 1:30 - 5 pm

LEGACY HOMES 307 Lucyk Crescent 955-5000 Mon-Thurs 7-9pm Sat,Sun and holidays 1-5pm

EHRENBURG HOMES 102 Langlois Way 384-1473 www.ehrenburg.com by appointment only

BLAIRMORE

WILLOWGROVE RIVERBEND DEVELOPMENTS LTD. 312 Willowgrove Lane Roger Schmidt 241-0719 www.willowlanetownhomes.ca Hours: Mon. - Fri. 7-9 pm Sat. & Sun. 3:30-5:30 pm Closed: Holidays TOUCHSTONE DEVELOPMENT 167 Masuda Terrace 270-6469 www.touchstonedevelopment.ca Hours: Mon.-Thur. 7-9pm Sat. & Sun. 2-5 pm

NORTH RIDGE DEVELOPMENT 414 Stonebridge Common 242-2434 Hours: Mon. - Thurs. 2-4 & 7-9 pm Sat., Sun. & Holidays 1-5 pm

NORTH RIDGE DEVELOPMENTS 350 Coad Manor 242-2434 Hours: Mon. - Thurs. 2-4 & 7-9 pm Sat., Sun. & Holidays 1-5 pm

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CAMPBELL CUSTOM HOMES 611 Braun Lane Colin 477-2267 www.campbellhomes.ca Hours: Sat. & Sun. 2-4 pm

MARTENSVILLE/OSLER NORTH RIDGE DEVELOPMENT 700 Reimer Road 242-2434 Hours: Mon. - Thurs. 7-9 pm Sat., Sun. & Holidays 1-5 pm NORTH RIDGE DEVELOPMENT 861 Glenview Cove 242-2434 Hours: Mon. – Thurs. 7 – 9 pm Sat., Sun. & Holidays 1-5 pm D&S HOMES 885 Geransky Crescent 890 Geransky Crescent 374-4774 Call for your private viewing D&S HOMES Stone Point Estates 901 4th Street South 374-4774 Call for your private viewing.

EHRENBURG HOMES 210 Parkview Cove - Osler 384-1473 www.parkviewcove.ca Mon. – Thurs. 7-9pm Sat., Sun. & Holidays 2-5pm

FeaturedContributors Linda Epstein

Heather Fritz

Linda has wanted to be a writer for as long as she can remember. After graduating from the University of Saskatchewan (Languages) she was at the right place at the right time, and landed some freelance writing assignments early on. Long hours for little pay, but she loved what she was doing. A short trip to Toronto led to her first full-time writing job—as a columnist for a tabloid, no less. Two years later, on the other end of the spectrum, she was writing for an insurance/investment company. Back in Saskatoon and wanting to broaden her horizons, she joined the U of S Audio Visual Division, scriptwriting and producing education videos for over 20 years. Her retirement brought more time to write the print features and profiles that are her favourite writing form. Ahhh! Life is good! epstein@sasktel.net

“When I am invited into people’s homes, I am always drawn to the photos they have on display,” says Heather Fritz, nationally published, Saskatoon-based photographer. “I was inspired by Shannon Tweed’s collection of small-framed family photos on display in clusters around her home.

While her house is large and elegant, each display acted like a piece of art while acknowledging the importance of family in this home.” Heather has been shooting professionally for over seven years. She grew up in Alberta and has lived in the Yukon Territory, British Columbia, Saskatchewan and Ontario. Heather is the official photographer for the Saskatoon Opera and is the co-chair/founder for Saskatoon’s “The High Tea” fundraising benefit tea. www.heatherfritz.com

Candace Fox

Lisa Landrie

Candace Fox is co-owner of Couture Business Development Inc. with her business partner and friend Suzy Huber. Her love of fashion and design has trickled into much of the business’ image and branded elements setting it apart from many of the Business Development firms in Saskatoon. While in University Candace spent her summers working for SaskCentral in Regina, to which she accredits much of her business knowledge and her belief that a positive working culture is key to success. Prior to the launch of CBD Inc. she also worked for PromoWare Corp with her now business partner. When she is not busy working or running the river trails, Candace can be found writing on her fashion blog or sketching in her drawing pad. www.couturebusinessdevelopment.com

Lisa Landrie’s distinct creative style began well over a decade ago. Her artistic journey began in the era of film and Hasselblads. Her countless hours spent in the dark room developed her eye for detail and an instinct for capturing the perfect shot. Lisa enhances black and white photography and colour imagery that results in vivid portraits of real life, laughter, and love. She continues to evolve as an artist, merging the best qualities of her art with cutting edge digital technology.

Her work is described as thoughtful, modern, uncomplicated, humorous, insightful, and artistically well-designed. Her talent for choosing the right light captures natures greatest design tool in achieving drama, depth and sincerity. This brings out a natural and unscripted beauty in her photographs. www.LisaLandrie.com

Branden Dupuis Braden Dupuis is a freelance writer and pre-journalism student at the University of Regina. Growing up in Shellbrook, Saskatchewan, he spent much of his free time doing creative writing and reading novels, a passion that has stayed with him through the years and led him to pursue a career as a professional writer. These days, Braden continues to follow his literary ambitions while also dabbling in music and photography on the side. In future years, he hopes to finish off his degree in journalism, pay off his mountain of student loan debt and travel the world. braden.dupuis@gmail.com

Christine Engel Christine Engel is co-owner of Black Bench Productions, a Saskatoon photography and multimedia company. In the last two years she completed her MFA at Ryerson University and created a documentary that has screened at festivals worldwide. Christine’s passion for photography is based on the documentary-style, and she is always experimenting with new approaches to images in her home-based studio. www.blackbenchproductions.com

BUILDER BRINGS CREATIVITY, CARE AND A WORLD OF EXPERIENCE DEVOTION TO QUALITY DESIGN AND DETAIL KEY FOR HOMES BY DAON

BY KARIN MELBERG SCHWIER. PHOTOS BY LISA LANDRIE

FineHomes SASKATOON

9

O

n their acreage west of Saskatoon, Don and Deborah Grenier cradle mugs of morning coffee at the kitchen table, surrounded by the glow of cherry stained cabinetry and warm earth tones of granite countertops. The space is bathed in natural light through cathedral windows. Just outside, yellow warblers flit in the branches of the maple and crab apple beside the deck. A swath of lilies along the drive leads out to horses grazing in the corral. There’s no mistaking this is a country home filled to the brim with thoughtful planning and a love of rural life.

Part of this serene atmosphere begins with the couple who, after 32 years of marriage, not only wallpaper together without so much as a cross word, but design and build dream homes to help

others capture that same serenity.

The Greniers are dedicated not just to attractive design and quality materials, but also to how people will enjoy life in the spaces they create. That care is the hallmark of this Saskatoon company.

Reputation Homes by Daon builds on a solid 35-year reputation as a framing company. The Greniers have always offered custom homes in their repertoire of quality construction projects. The evolution from framer to focus more on home building was a natural progression and the same integrity applies to what Don calls “true custom projects.” While some companies offer limited options, Don’s skill, experience and ability to build creative living spaces

MASTER BEDROOM AND ENSUITE: Antique 1920s chandeliers.

Heated polished marble flooring in ensuite. Limestone tile walls.

Kohler air massage tub. Original hand painted layer finished bedroom wall. Detailed crown moulding, and ceiling washed in metallic paint.

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FineHomes SASKATOON

means an authentic customized home. If you want it, Don says, “we can build it.”

“We have six house plans just as a starting point for discussion, but we like to sit down with people and find out what they have in mind. Tell us what you want, what your dreams are and we’ll make that happen,” Don says. “That early exploration is perhaps one of the most exciting times in a project as a homeowner starts to realize what is possible and that homes by Daon really are unique.

Quality inside and out “Some customers know very well what they want and can present that vision for pricing,” explains Deborah, who handles the interior design work. “Others aren’t

UPSTAIRS BEDROOMS: Private baths with Kohler fixtures, each with clawfoot tub, window seats for view and storage.

The Green Room bath has secret room built behind the vanity, perfect for granchildren.

All draperies and bedding handmade by Deborah.

so sure, so we can help. Whatever they decide, quality is non-negotiable. The key is a happy, satisfied customer at the end of day. Whether it’s a first time buyer starter home or a dream retirement home, you want that care, quality and attention to detail from start to finish. If I wouldn’t want to live with something that’s just ‘good enough’ in my own home, I absolutely wouldn’t want that for any of our clients.”

True to their framing roots, Homes

by Daon can also do custom framing to lock-up for customers who want to finish a home project themselves.

Don, a Leoville farm boy, may have had sawdust in his veins from an early age. His father ran a lumberyard. When Don finished school, he moved to Saskatoon and took up a hammer in the construction industry.

He met Deborah, born in Moose Jaw, raised in Saskatoon, who was still in high school.

She originally planned to be a lawyer, but opted for the job of raising a family. The two collaborated not only on three sons– Dustin, Michael and Corey–but also a succession of homes to build, live in and sell.

“We built our first in 1983 and went on to build five, moving every ten to twelve months as each went up and was sold. The boys were small and never saw green grass for years!” Deborah laughs. “They thought living in a construction site was normal!”

It couldn’t have hurt; today Dustin is a builder himself, Michael is a framer, and Corey plans to go into criminology.

International experience

FORMAL DINING ROOM: Belgian chandelier. Upper walls papered. Wainscoting detailing. Dropped bulkhead features incandescent lighting.

Established in Martensville with partner Dale Svenkeson in 1980, Daon grew into the largest framing company in Saskatoon. When housing starts slowed in the late 1980s, Dale headed to Ontario, and the Greniers headed west.

The couple jumped at an invitation from Nascor, a major builder in Calgary in 1989. It was an opportune time to gain some valuable experience on a wide variety of projects, including homes, condos, a hunting lodge, lakeside homes, the largest wood standing structure in Calgary (80,000 square feet), even two distinctly different Buddhist temples.

Then

came

international

work.

FineHomes SASKATOON

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Nascor sent Don and a crew to far-flung locations not only to frame, but to teach local crews how to build the Canadian way.

“I learned so much during my eight years with this company,” says Don, who has glowing praise for then-owner Richard Dettbarn. “I worked in Japan, Russia, and Germany on housing, condo, and apartment projects. In Japan, we taught carpenters how to frame, how to install furnaces and so on. We worked with the Moscow police department, building homes as an incentive to attract recruits. The mafia was strong; we’d hear gunfire and had to move materials by convoy for safety. It was during the Chechnya unrest and I had to carry documentation to prove I was Canadian.”

In Moscow, Don was invited for supper in the home of someone he was building with and it was, Deborah says, profoundly moving. “He knew they had spent a month’s wages on the meal they were giving him, but they were so warm and hospitable. It was a very humbling experience.”

During the Calgary years, the couple had left part of their hearts back in Saskatoon and always knew they would return. After a trial go at acreage life– they rented near Okotoks for a year–they moved back in 1997. Don could handle his international work as easily here, so they bought the land, once a thriving dairy farm that supplied milk, cream and eggs to the district. An old farmhouse, well beyond its life, along with sheds, chicken coops and garage were torn down. A plough wind took its toll and the barn had to be razed. They salvaged the cupolas for installation on the new barn.

Heartfelt homecoming Deborah felt a sense of homecoming and once the property was cleared, she could more easily visualize the type of home she wanted to build.

“Because we had built, lived in and sold so many homes, I felt like we were never really making our own home. It was time,” Deborah says. The land called out for something traditional, the kind of farmhouse look with a porch swing and a verandah so that’s what I had my heart set on.”

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FineHomes SASKATOON

KITCHEN: Thermador appliances.

Liebherr refrigerator.

Energy efficient induction cook-top.

Concealed warming drawer.

Built-in double ovens Concealed dishwasher.

GREAT ROOM: Vaulted ceilings.

Floor to ceiling brick wood burning fireplace.

Custom site finished hardwood flooring.

EXTERIOR:2 x 8 construction. Triple-glaze low e windows, all south facing Sunstop coated. Maintenance free James Hardie plank siding with shingle detailing in the gables. Covered porch ceiling stained pine for “old feel”. Pre-finished Guardian decking.

floor.” With intentions of one day being off the grid, a wood-burning fireplace with a blower heats the other rooms. The 2 X 8 construction, two inches of rigid insulation, R38 walls and R60 ceilings, triple-glazed windows and space for solar panels in the future means serious energy efficiencies.

With a bit of tweaking to Deborah’s design, Don built the 2,750 square foot home and Deborah handled all the interior décor and materials, including limestone tiles, site-finished hardwood flooring and period pieces like wide baseboards, 1920s chandeliers, push button light switches, ball pin hinges and claw foot bathtubs.

A stunning 7.5-foot high deacon’s bench circa 1880s from an Arcola auction looks as though it was destined to be there.

“She’s got a great eye for design and decorating,” Don says. “All our customers are happy with what she does. Whether it’s a home we’re building for someone else or our own, the approach is the same. We just won’t do anything that isn’t quality work.”

They each have their own favourite areas of their own home; she’s partial to the master bedroom and he likes the living room and its floor-toceiling brick fireplace. But they both agree that whether it’s their own dream home or someone else’s, the key is quality work and a healthy appreciation for creating not just a house, but also a living space.

Wisely, Don nixed the idea of dragging an existing house onto the property for renovation, calling that idea a “nightmare, not a dream house!” Instead, Deborah created the plans for a new home that would have that period-piece charm that suited the area. True to the company’s building philosophy that custom means completely individualized homes, Deborah based her plans on their family’s unique needs.

Built for lifestyle and life “We have cattle. We do our own haying. Where do Don and the boys wash up when they come in after field work?”

Deborah says. “We have a lot of potlucks and formal dinners, so we wanted open spaces. We’re 50 years old and I’m hoping we’ll be here for at least 30 years so I wanted a master bedroom on the main

“I think we’re an incredible combination,” Deborah laughs. “Don’s fantastic with the big picture, hiring the trades, managing the building process,” she says. “I think it’s a matter of trusting your gifts. I always have such detailed pictures in my head. I suppose one of my favourite things about my house is that everything turned out better than what I had pictured.

Whatever the project, custom work takes longer. We want all of our customers to be as happy with their homes

by Daon as we are with ours.” FHS

Homes by Daon Don and Deborah Grenier, RR2, Station Main, Saskatoon S7K 3J5 306-668-9933, cell 227-7098 daonco@explornet.com www.daonconstruction.com

Don and Deborah Grenier with Sophia FineHomes SASKATOON

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Six-year-old Diamond Marshall had her wish to meet a real princess come true when she greeted Kate Middleton at the airport in Calgary in July.

REX FEATURES/CANADIAN PRESS

BY FHS STAFF

his summer, all of Canada was transfixed by Prince William and Kate Middleton, but no one more so than six-year-old Diamond (Di) Marshall. The young girl, stricken with advanced sarcoma, a lifethreatening caner, wished she could meet a princess. She watched Will and Kate’s fairly-tale wedding from a hospital bed.

Heart-warming doesn’t begin to describe the scene on the tarmac at Calgary International Airport on July 7 when Di’s wish came true, thanks to the Children’s Wish Foundation. While easily the most public of the Canadian charity’s good works (more than 4,000 articles were published worldwide by that evening), Di’s story is just one of more than 17,000 Children’s Wish has made happen since volunteer Laura Cole founded the

organization in 1984. Originally granting approximately 20 wishes in a year, the Foundation has grown the capacity to facilitate up to 1,000 annually with chapters in every Canadian province and territory.

partnered with Children’s Wish to turn dreams into realities.

The wishes run the gamut, but the most common are travel, entertainment centres, computer systems and, like Di Marshall, meeting celebrities. To date, in Saskatchewan, more than 700 children and their families have benefited from the Foundation’s work.

This year there are 22 homes in the Parade, 15 in Saskatoon, three in Martensville, three in Warman and one in Osler.

All are by Certified Professional Home Builders and members of an approved third party warranty program. For a $150 ticket purchase, some lucky person or family will win their choice of one of 13 great homes or $695,000 in cash. There are also many other incredible prizes up for grabs including dream vacations.

But it doesn’t happen without funding. In Saskatoon and area, the biggest fundraiser of the year is the annual Wish Home Lottery and the Saskatoon Parade of Homes. For more than 20 years, Saskatoon and region home builders have

Most of the money raised by ticket sales—86 per cent, according to the Children’s Wish Foundation of Canada head office—goes to granting children’s wishes, and, at least for a time, replacing illness and stress with joy and hope. FHS

2011 PARADE OF HOMES

14

HAMPTON VILLAGE

ROSEWOOD

WARMAN

1322 Korol Green

834 Ledlingham Crescent

547 Redwood Crescent

1130 Korol Green

STONEBRIDGE

232 Warwick Crescent

350 Coad Manor

610 Rempel Crescent

323 Player Crescent

MARTENSVILLE

826 Stonebridge Common

WESTERN DEVELOPMENT

228 Kinsmen Crescent

#30 502 Rempel Manor

MUSEUM

221 Enns Crescent

538 Dickson Lane

2610 Lorne Avenue

700 Reimer Road

135 Snell Crescent

WILLOWGROVE

OSLER

#512 150 Langlois Way

167 Masuda Terrace

210 Parkview Cove

203 McBeth Crescent

122 Lucyk Crescent

FineHomes SASKATOON

802 Rempel Crescent

ta k e pr ide in yo u r w e s t r id g e hom e

3 0 6 . 6 5 2 - 9 9 7 4

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GRANTING WISHES IS EASIER THAN YOU THINK

BY TAMMY ROBERT

W

hat does it mean to be a child living with a life-threatening illness? It means growing up far too fast in order to deal with the hospital visits, tests and pain. It is a struggle, shared by the entire family.

Thanks to the Children’s Wish Foundation’s Saskatchewan Chapter, since 1986 over 700 of these brave Saskatchewan children have been granted a reprieve from their medical challenges, ensuring once in a lifetime dreams come true.

“Each child’s wish is really unique,” says Saskatchewan Chapter Director Carla Loney-Tindall. “We’ve granted a wish for a herd of cows—ten in total for one young man’s own little herd. There have been wishes for horses, fishing trips, even a chance to see a live taping of The Red Green Show. Saskatchewan’s wish children have met Dolly Parton, Wayne Gretzky, Kobe Bryant and Steve Nash. Our job is to go above and beyond, to make sure each wish package turns out to be something that’s really personal for each child—not just a backstage pass, but a chance for that celebrity and child to really connect.”

Loney-Tindall highlights the importance of not only the wish itself, but the process of granting it. Sensitivity is the key, she says.

“We don’t use the word ‘terminal’, nor is it some kind of pre-requisite to granting a child’s wish,” Carla emphasizes. “Wish kids can be dealing with everything from cardiac disease to cystic fibrosis, or may be awaiting an organ transplant. Being terminally ill has nothing to do with it, and often isn’t the case at all. What they do all have in common is sacrifice and courage.”

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Tindall. “Ultimately, it’s not about a trip or any one item—it’s something much bigger than that. It’s about knowing that this whole wish came together when everyone is going through a rough time, leaving both the child and family feeling really cared for and supported.”

Saskatchewan wish kid David and his parents are a prime example of how The Children’s Wish Foundation takes the child’s dream and turns it into a beautiful reality, not only for the child, but for the entire family. Born with an abnormality that left some of his internal organs growing on the outside of his body, David, along with his siblings, and parents, Tracy and Brent, spent the first precious years of his life in hospitals undergoing multiple surgeries. The things kids take for granted—running around the back yard, going camping—were out of the question for the entire family.

“Each wish really resonates with the child’s personality—they spend a lot of time thinking about it. The meditating and planning creates such a positive diversion, in a way it’s therapeutic,” explains Loney-

Enter the Saskatchewan Chapter, who, together with a generous local dealership, provided the family with a camping trailer, meaning lake adventures were back on the agenda now that David was finally able to live at home. Further, the trailer will also help with trips to the Calgary Children’s Hospital for David’s future treatments.

Want to get involved? You can help grant wishes through your support of

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The Children’s Wish Foundation Home Lottery, the organization’s primary annual fundraiser, which is integral to funding Saskatchewan’s kids’ wishes. With almost a million dollars in prizes—including the grand prize of your choice of thirteen stunning new homes in Saskatchewan’s most prestigious neighborhoods—your $150 ticket means much more than a chance to win amazing prizes, it means putting hope, joy and memories in the hearts of these very deserving children.

“All of our wishes include the entire family—we go out of our way to look after every detail,” says Loney-Tindall. “But ultimately, it’s always about the wish kids.

The Children’s Wish Foundation’s goal is to make everything as special for them as possible.”

Tickets available across Saskatchewan www.wishhomelottery.ca FHS

Saskatchewan Chapter Office 1.800.267.9474 sk@childrenswish.ca

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ExcEptional community and HomEs Found in tHE scEnic town oF warman saskatcHEwan

BY FHS STAFF. PHOTOS BY CHRISTINE ENGEL Warman Homes is a familiar name to many across Saskatoon and neighboring communities. The company has a reputation of building beautiful crafted homes for over twenty five years in Warman, Martensville and Langham.

With their reputation of unsurpassed quality, service and integrity Warman Homes continues to offer an escape from the city life in beautifully designed homes, welcoming for couples and families of any size.

The staff at Warman Homes takes great pride in their work, and in contributing to the growth of communities such as The Southland and The Legends area both located in Warman, Saskatchewan.

As participants in the 2011 Children’s Wish Foundation Parade of Homes, the

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building company has entered two show homes from these communities. Open to the public, those touring can experience and see firsthand the beautiful designs of Warman Homes.

The Southland community Located in the southwest corner of Warman, prospect buyers can expect to find the beginnings of a beautifully designed community in this southland area. With 600 – 700 lots available this community is designed to accommodate some of Warman’s newest residents. Marketed towards single professionals, young families or first time homeowners this charming community offers an abundance of choice in affordable townhouses, bungalows and two storey houses. With

open lots available, customers also have the opportunity to collaborate with Warman Homes in building their custom dream house.

The Southland community has an abundance of green space to enjoy and admire along the walking paths. This residential area is activity friendly with ball diamonds and parks for families to enjoy and gather with neighbors. With just a short drive from Saskatoon, home owners can enjoy the peaceful serenity only a small town can offer while still having access to the city’s urban amenities.

To see the exquisite craftsmanship of a Warman Homes build while touring the Southland community in Warman, the company invites you to visit their showhome at 323 Warwick Crescent. As

part of the 2011 Children’s Wish Home Lottery Parade of Homes, prospect buyers can tour this raised bungalow styled home and enter for a chance to win. The raised bungalow styled home boasts 2 bedrooms with his and her closets in the master. Additional features of the home include a den, covered front deck, sliding patio door off the dining room and high efficient furnace. This 1098 square foot home is perfect for a small family or young professional.

The Legends community Situated around an 18 hole champion golf course, this newly developed community also located in Warman, Saskatchewan is a buyers dream and an enjoyable retreat to call home. With larger homes and lots available, an abundance of green space, walking paths and just steps away from the golf course and clubhouse the Legends area appeals to families, single professionals and retired couples. The community is also situated close to the new rink and multi cultural building, as well the elementary, middle and high schools. With parks nearby, fine dining just steps away and facilities to satisfy activity and leisure time the Legends community is perfect for families looking for a safe and small

neighborhood with modern amenities and beautiful scenery.

Prospect buyers can tour a Warman Homes’ show home in this community at 323 Player Crescent. This home is also a part of the 2011 Children’s Wish Home Lottery Parade of Homes, and can be won through entering the draw. This beautifully crafted raised bungalow is a 3 bedroom and 2 bathroom build. The home also features a double car garage, large kitchen with walk in pantry, and modern double garden doors leading outside from the dining area. Those viewing the home will notice luxury materials such as hardwood in the main areas with ceramic tile in the entry and bathrooms.

Warman Homes is your builder. Chosen as the preferred home building company by those in the communities they have helped create and expand; the company’s success and popularity is apparent through the many awards and distinctions they have garnered throughout their years in the business. Notably, Warman Homes was the proud recipient of the prestigious Saskatoon and Region Home Builders’ Association’s Customer Choice Award in both 2009 and 2010. A rewarding moment for the building company as Warman Homes’ Ken Wagar states, “Warman

Homes is truly humbled and honoured to have received this recognition from our customers.” Ken Wagar continues to express appreciation and what the award means about their customer service oriented company, “Winning an award like this only reinforces a customer’s choice of us as their builder, enhances our reputation as a trusted builder and helps to ensure future success of our company.”

To learn more about the company, their quality craftsmanship, and available homes built by Warman Homes please view their website at: www.warmanhomes.ca. FLR Warman Homes Box 1000, South Railway St. West 306.933.9595 info@warmanhomes.ca www.warmanhomes.ca

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A Functional and Stylish Entry in Saskatoon’s Parade of Homes

BY CANDACE FOX. PHOTOS BY LISA LANDRIE

W

ith a healthy housing market providing almost a glut of building opportunities, Homes

by Dundee stands by its reputation for exceptional service and remains committed to providing the highest standard of quality, finished product to home buyers.

With all Dundee finished homes, you can expect exterior street appeal, creative yet functional floor plans, quality materials and timely construction. Considering new communities such as Hampton Village, The Willows and Stonebridge, Dundee’s great room-inspired floor plans are a huge hit with new home buyers, who enjoy the large open space and airy feel. Homes by Dundee prides itself on unparalleled customer service, offering further value through consumer warranty protection, personalized after-sale service and, of course, competitive pricing in the Saskatoon’s growing market.

Homes by Dundee is no stranger to the Children’s Wish Foundation Parade of Homes being one of the original builders to get involved. Marty Lewis, General Manager, recounts the Saskatoon company’s long association with the foundation. “Our first parade was over 20 years ago, an organized event which typically featured up to 20 homes, to what we typically see today with 15 to 20 homes in a travelling parade,” states Marty.

The city-wide affair has new home buyers, prospectors, and curious spectators out to view the latest trends and design concepts in the housing market.

This year tour goers can find two Dundee homes on the parade roster. The first is in Stonebridge located at 610 Rempel Crescent.

This custom-build is a 1,775 square foot, two-storey house with three bedrooms, a large kitchen overlooking the dining area,

a great room with large windows to allow an abundance of natural light to flow throughout the main floor and two spacious bathrooms.

Additional features of this home include the large open concept design, main floor laundry, walk-in closet off the master bedroom, and a sizeable two-car garage. The home has a stucco and stone exterior, and those entering the home will admire the hardwood flooring, quartz countertops along with a large dinette and surround sound system complete with a large flat-screen TV. The second featured home on the Parade of Homes tour by Dundee is located in Hampton Village, at 1322 Korol Green.

This is one of the newest show homes built by the company. The 1,621 square foot, two-storey home boasts three bedrooms with an en suite and walk-in closet off the master bedroom. The great room concept design allows for lots of natural light to flow throughout the main

floor with rear views and is suited for either formal or informal living. Like many others, Dundee built this show home with a main floor laundry, as well as, direct access to the spacious attached double garage. The exterior is beautifully done with combination stone and vinyl for great curb appeal.

You will notice the groomed, beautiful landscaping on the properties of both homes. Both show homes are fully staged, and are set up to be suitable for any type of homeowner, whether it be a growing family, couples, or young professionals.

The interior is modern and chic, yet still comfortable and cozy to call home and enjoy relaxing or entertaining.

Dundee has enjoyed its partnership with the Children’s Wish Foundation Parade of Homes. Their dedication to the community spans beyond just providing quality builds, but also with charitable involvement in Saskatoon and across the province. The company knows the importance of giving

back, and investing in the future of the province. Their success has come from not only providing top notch homes, but also Dundee’s customer service and level of commitment to the betterment of Saskatoon and Saskatchewan.

To learn more about Dundee Homes, view their show homes or enquire about new builds please contact them directly: For more information regarding the 2011 Children’s Wish Foundation Parade of Homes in Saskatoon please visit the website: www.wishhomelottery.ca. FHS

Homes by Dundee Suite 300, 2100 8th Street East Phone: 306.374.6100 Fax: 306.955.7673 Email: sales@homesbydundee.com www.homesbydundee.com

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THE

EVOLUTION OF THE LUXURY HOME

BY ASHLEIGH MATTERN

A

s you slip your key into the lock for the first time and hear that satisfying click, you know that you made the right decision. This is your house, down to every last detail. You didn’t just choose this house, you were intimately involved in the design process. The high-end design has everything you ever

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sought in a home; this is your dream home.

An experience such as this is exactly what Evolution Homes offers.

The possibilities for home design are literally endless in owner Dustin Grenier’s mind.

“We can do anything from the start,” said Grenier. “Somebody can bring me a sketch that they have on a piece of loose leaf or a design they found on the Internet.”

And so begins the conversation that leads to your dream home. Grenier says the time from that first conversation to

Evolution Homes has 15 lots in Greenbryre, but since the lots aren’t finished yet, they haven’t started to build there yet. They hope to see the lots ready to go by this fall.

Surrounded by nature Evergreen is another new area where Evolution is building, the newest development on the east side.

Willowgrove used to be the hot place to build in the city, but with Willowgrove full, the slightly larger lots in Evergreen look better than ever to potential home buyers.

With the Saskatoon Forestry Farm to the west, land to the east and south dedicated to agricultural research, and land to the north a nature preserve, Evergreen is literally surrounded by green space. The neighbourhood is also aiming to be a “green” neighbourhood; the streets are designed so that all the houses get the most sunlight possible, and the area is designed to promote less vehicle dependence by keeping important businesses in the neighbourhood.

Besides Evergreen and Greenbryre, Evolution has developments on acreages out of town, including Valley View Heights, where Grenier is developing his own house, and Prairie Rose Estates. Grenier hopes to move into his new home in September. the day you walk into your home is eight to 10 months, depending on the design of the house.Every design is custom, so you don’t have to worry about someone down the street having the same house as you.

For Evolution’s most elaborate designs, Grenier contracts a designer based out of Calgary.

“He has a lot of ideas for different designs,” said Grenier. “We never have problems with any of his work; it’s always done right the first time.”

Hot lots Right now, the hottest areas Evolution has lots in are Greenbryre and Evergreen.

Grenier says Greenbryre is going to be Saskatoon’s new high-end development, “like the Willows with bigger lots.” The lots in the area are half- to three-quarter acres.

Grenier is excited about the possibilities for homes in the area.

“You have enough room that you can design anything you want for your house — the design possibilities are endless. You don’t have someone looking in through your kitchen window, but you’re still close enough to the city that you have all the amenities close.” He adds that every lot in the area is a walk-out lot, where your basement walks out into your back yard, a desirable design in the city with people snapping up walkout lots as soon as they become available.

Trusted Grenier started Evolution homes in 2006, after literally a lifetime in the industry.

“My parents are home builders so I’ve been around it for forever, since I was three years old!”

Grenier is a framer by trade with 10 years’ experience. Evolution started when Grenier began building homes for himself. He enjoyed home building so much that he gave up framing to focus on home building full time.

“With my framing experience, I have a lot more hands-on experience with knowing what’s going on with the house,” he said.

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Grenier was born and raised in Saskatoon, and he has a web of connections in the city that prove it. Included in those varied connections are industry connections.

“I have so much family in the trade,” he said. “My uncle does my glass work and my dad’s company and my brother do all my framing.”

He has kept in touch with friends from high school, some of whom have also moved into the home construction industry.

These strong connections means Grenier can trust his contractors. Together, they’ve built a community of industry professionals.

One example of the close connections Grenier has in the city is with Jarred Servetnyk at Allied Flooring. Grenier and Servetnyk have known each other since grade nine. Grenier built Servetnyk’s home, and they’ve been working together professionally since Evolution’s first day. Allied does all of the flooring in Evolution’s homes.

This community isn’t just a benefit to Evolution and Grenier — the connec-

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tions make for a palpable difference between Evolution Homes and other home building companies on the market.

“With me having so many family members in the industry, I can get a lot of supplies for a lot cheaper than most people, and I can pass the savings on to the customers,” he said.

but he also offers an option for homebuyers who prefer to do the work themselves, basically giving the buyer the skeleton of a house to work with.

Customer satisfaction

The clients are also closely involved in the projects, and Evolution offers different levels of their own involvement. And not to worry if you don’t have a knack for interior design because Evolution Homes does that too. When your project is done, you could literally walk into a totally finished home.

Another difference between Evolution Homes and other companies is their attention to detail, as former customers can attest.

“It was a pleasure dealing with Evolution, they paid attention to all the details,” said the home owner of 403 Wilkins. “For any first time home buyer or seasoned vet, [Dustin] has what you need. My build was one of the first of its kind, and Dustin made it happen. I would highly recommend Evolution to anyone in the market.”

As members of the Saskatoon and Region Home Builders’ Association and Progressive Home Warranty Solutions Inc., customers can feel assured that they’re putting the plans for their dream home into the right hands.

Not only will he create custom builds,

Evolution

Superior workmanship They key to Evolution Home’s success, though, is the high quality of the workmanship.

“In my houses, another builder’s upgrades are my standard features,” said Grenier.

Homes’

mission

is

to

offer clients luxury, quality and excellent design. They only use the latest high quality materials and construction techniques, and create homes that combine traditional design with modern convenienes and energy efficiency. FHS For more information about Evolution Homes and to check out their gallery of finished homes, visit saskevolution.com.

Dustin Grenier Phone: 306-260-2636 Email: Dustingrenier@hotmail.com

FROM THE GROUND UP: THE ART OF FLOORING

BY ASHLEIGH MATTERN. PHOTOS BY BLACK BENCH PRODUCTIONS

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F

looring might have a bad rep because we walk all over it, but according to Jerrad Servetnyk with Styles by Allied, flooring might be the most important part of a home.

“Flooring makes a huge difference,” said Servetnyk. “It’s a pretty big part of the home and I don’t think people realize that until they get into the process of picking it out.”

If you think about it, the floor is the part of the house you feel the most. The right flooring can set the mood in the room. The wrong flooring can make a room totally uncomfortable.

And beyond simply furnishing the mostused part of the home, the right flooring can even be a work of art.

Centiva is a 100 per cent pure vinyl tile on which any design can be printed. The vinyl tile can look like wood, stone, or anything you can imagine.

“If you wanted to take a picture of yourself,

they could make it and design it into the floor,” joked Servetnyk. “Or a piece of art you’ve drawn up—they’ll send you a proof back and if you approve it they can do it.”

Servetnyk said he just built a home and put Centiva flooring throughout.

“It’s virtually indestructible,” he said. “I have a 100 pound dog and can drag him across the floor and it won’t scratch. It’s very low maintenance and easy to clean.”

One of the biggest trends right now in home flooring is putting in hard surfaces everywhere, including bedrooms and master bedrooms, Servetnyk says.

When rugs are used, the trend is toward sculptured rugs with interesting designs.

“Some of the stuff we’re putting in is pretty wild and unique.”

Styles by Allied doesn’t just stick to flooring. They also carry the hard to find Sicis Italian mosaic line. From a company called the Sicis Art Mosaic Factory, these tile mosaics could be used on a floor, but

are more often seen as elaborate wall art or back splashes.

As the name of the company attests, these mosaics are art, depicting scenes like New York City and celebrity icons like Marilyn Monroe. Allied will send them the measurements of the wall or floor where the mosaic will be installed, and then they send back numbered pieces in just the right size to fit the space.

“We’ve done one where a customer fastened it to a moveable piece so if he moved he could take it with him.”

While Styles by Allied started off mainly commercial, they recently moved to a new location, doubling in size and focusing on residential clients. Servetnyk says they usually tackle higher end homes in Saskatoon with custom stone work or tile work.

“We can pretty much handle anything thrown at us,” Servetnyk said. “We have design options and a capacity other stores don’t.”

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Family owned and operated for over 30 years, turning projects around quickly is a point of pride for Allied. From start to finish, a full house would take Styles

by Allied about two weeks to finish, Servetnyk says. One room in a house can be finished in less than a day.

But what makes the difference between Allied and other companies is that they’re 100 per cent locally owned and operated, and they have exclusive products that other companies in the city don’t have.

“He comes up with design ideas and patterns and puts his whole heart into a job,” said Servetnyk.

Flooring is a huge part of any home.

Advances in the science of flooring means there are options for homes that simply didn’t exist 10 years ago, the vinyl tile flooring just one example of that. That’s why it’s important to find experts in the field to help you make the right decision for your home and lifestyle.

“It’s also the personal touches we can add to the job,” Servetnyk said. One Allied employee in particular has put his own personal touch on many homes in the past four years.

Not only that, but the right flooring can make a huge statement about personal style and taste. Servetnyk says that more and more customers are opting for unique flooring options in their homes in an effort to give their home a unique personality.

Jean Guy has been working in the flooring industry for more than 27 years. He joined Allied contract sales four years ago, and has blown up like a Hollywood celebrity.

“Custom homebuilding is really starting to take over,” he said. “People are veering away from that cookie cutter style; people want their own approach on each project.”

“He works by request,” said Servetnyk.

“Sometimes there may be a wait for him, but people gladly do.”

If you’re looking for top-notch service and a knowledgeable staff with decades of experience in the flooring industry, Styles

by Allied is your best bet. Visit their office at 1-814 56th Street East, or call them at 933-4311. FHS

Jean Guy’s skill and attention to detail are a gift from God. He has been blessed with the creativity of an artist.

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Jerrad Servetnyk and Dustin Grenier

Allied Flooring #1- 814 56th St E Saskatoon, SK 306.933.4311

PREMIUM BUILDERS OF FINE HOMES & CABINETS

829 - 46TH S TREET WES T • SASKATOON • 306.382. 366 7 www.hav enbuilders.ca

GETTING THE BEST MORTGAGE RATE IS EASIER THAN YOU THINK

BY ASHLEIGH MATTERN. PHOTOS BY LISA LANDRIE

Y

our Mortgage Link’s refurbished home on 8th Street is cozy and professional, decorated in warm browns with trendy accents. Mortgage broker Chelsey Loehndorf offers me coffee before leading me to her office, which she decorated herself.

“In Saskatchewan mortgage brokering is in its infancy,” she explained. “Across Canada it’s been around for a lot longer, but in Saskatchewan we’re slower to change; we’re a little more conservative here so things tend not to catch on as quickly as they do in bigger centres.”

While I’m just learning about mortgage brokering, I definitely know that mortgages are expensive, so the cost of using a mortgage broker is one of the most pressing questions on my mind.

“It’s free,” Loehndorf said, to my surprise.

She explains that the brokers are paid a referral fee from the bank. “We don’t get paid unless we get clients a mortgage.”

Loehndorf has been with Your Mortgage Link since its inception six years ago. As a licenced mortgage professional, Loehndorf helps clients find the lowest mortgage rates possible.

She also works as a mentor to junior associate Erin Ewachow, who by law must work under a professional mortgage broker for two years. But Ewachow is no newbie: she worked at the Bank of Nova Scotia for six years. Loehndorf met Ewachow through her work as a mortgage broker.

“Our only job is to make sure the client gets what they want out of their mortgage,” Loehndorf said. “Our job is to sit down with them and try to figure out what they want and then match them up with lenders.”

Banks start you off with the posted

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Chelsey Loendorf

rate, and then it’s up to you to negotiate that rate. They look at all of your accounts, and give you a discount based on how much money you have. Beyond that initial discount, you’re on your own.

Not so with a mortgage broker.

“We aren’t given any incentive to not give you the best rate,” said Loehndorf. “It’s not like we’re paid more if you pay more..

And in fact, if we’re not giving our clients the best rate and doing what’s best for them, they won’t come to us anymore.”

Loehndorf tries to make the whole process as open and transparent as possible, including turning on a second computer screen that she turns toward the client so they can see everything she is doing.

She takes the time to explain to clients the ins and outs of having a mortgage and what kind of work she is doing for them.

“I don’t know how you can have the biggest debt of your life, for the most part, and not really understand it,” she said.

At Your Mortgage Link, the client is the focus. Loehndorf has made contacts with contractors, insurers and lawyers, so when she hears that one of her clients is having a problem, she can point them in the right direction.

Mortgages are confusing. Laws governing mortgages are constantly changing, and there’s often confusion as to what you can and can’t do, especially if you have multiple properties or you’re building your own home.

With offices in Warman, as well as three offices in Saskatoon, Your Mortgage Link is a local, community-oriented business.

Loehndorf made a point of mentioning that she was born and raised in Saskatoon. Who

better to trust than your own neighbour?

If you have any questions about mortgages, Chelsey Loehndorf and Erin Ewachow at Your Mortgage Link can help.

For more information, including mortgage calculators, online applications and helpful links, visit saskmortgageexperts.ca. FHS Mention this article and receive up to $300 in legal fees FREE!

MORTGAGE LINK 1134-8 STREET E Mortgage Broker License #315798 306.341.9090 cloehndorf@yourmortgagelink.ca saskmortgageexperts.ca

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TK HOMES Brings You Another Custom Executive Style Show Home

WATCH FOR NEXT SHOW HOME OCTOBER 2011 Evergreen – 2,441 sq.ft. over 2 Spectacular view of Ag Canada Land – Full length of windows on both floors Large pie shaped lot.

Open concept main floor with eye popping large rectangle fireplace and upgraded kitchen and sunroom/den 2nd floor: 800’ Lavish Master suite, retreat with extra large fireplace, separate tub room with ceiling fill, ensuite with double size shower, 15’x12’ change room Basement finished with cozy fireplace and outside entrance for easy access or nanny suite Triple car drive thru garage extra large at 900’ Professionally detailed by Fresco Interiors This home is available to show anytime. MLS - $849,000

LOOKING TO BUILD YOUR VERY OWN HOME? • Lots available in the Evergreen • New semi-detached units 1548’ two storey at 2nd Ave. North, DOWNTOWN SASKATOON

KRIS: 221-7060 3 0 6 .3 8 0.7 15 0

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tk homes @ s as ktel. net

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www.tkhomes .ca

RIVER RIDGE as close as it gets to having your own personal builder

BY TAMMY CEASER. PHOTOS BY LISA LANDRIE

FineHomes SASKATOON

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F

or nearly a decade, one of the best kept secrets in Saskatchewan’s home building industry has been River Ridge Homes. Neverthless, River Ridge— established, owned, and operated by Perry and Connie Kenke and a relatively young company—has subtly and quickly become a top-of-mind name for Saskatoon’s most discerning home buyer. When speaking with Perry and Connie, it becomes rather evident why so very many Saskatoon families are choosing River Ridge.

As a smaller builder, Perry says that one of the main keys to his success over the years is building only as many homes as they can build exceptionally well. In a housing market which is trending up and as demand continues to increase, this is becoming a scarce option for buyers. Usually, you can expect to see only about 15 homes in total each year displaying the River Ridge name.

“It truly is a personal buying experience,” says Perry, “When making such a significant investment for most families, it lends peace of mind to know that they can expect a more personal level of service from us at River Ridge Homes. The main key to our success through the years has come due to the fact that we always listen to why our clients are choosing our homes, what it is that’s important to them as buyers, and the features, fit, and finish that they expect for their investment. And then, we deliver on it.”

As is typical with all River Ridge homes, when comparing to others on the market in similar price ranges, there always seems to be an elevated level of value for the buyer who chooses the River Ridge home. “As a smaller builder, we have to work harder to offer not just the personalized level of service, but also the value and features that you would come to ex-

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pect in a home with a far higher list price,” Perry continues. “In 10 years of listening to the families who trust us with their home purchase, it has become something that seems to be said by all of them.”

A higher plane The latest River Ridge show home is located in Stonebridge, one of Saskatoon’s newest and most sought-after family neighborhoods.

As one drives up to this home built on a 30 x 114 corner lot, it is immediately eyecatching with some features wonderfully apparent before you even get out of the car. The front veranda is cheerful and inviting, complete with aluminum rails and pressure treated decking. The exterior of the home features low maintenance and durable vinyl siding, PVC triple-glazed windows, cedar shingles, and an exquisite Eldorado stone exterior.

Even the front door is upgraded with textured fibreglass and a transom window to let in just a little bit of extra sunshine.

River Ridge liveability When experiencing the initial walkthrough of the 1,381 square foot, threebedroom, three-bathroom River Ridge gem, buyers appreciate the bright, open floor plan. The front entrance comes complete with ceramic tile flooring,as does the back entrance and all three bathrooms. The living room, kitchen, and dining room are accented by Estates hardwood flooring. A Heat n’ Glo natural gas fireplace is featured for additional coziness in the living room—an appreciated touch to those who have experienced a Saskatchewan winter. The contemporary feel of the main floor living area boasts practicality, while providing a remarkable amount of space in a floor plan of this size.

Everything makes sense with River Ridge homes. The front closet is large enough to hold jackets for all seasons. The kitchen and bathroom cabinets are from the Fusion line from Superior Cabinets for optimal storage and space saving. All cabinetry is well situated and plentiful. There is a peninsula and pantry to save your counter space. Granite counter tops in the kitchen and bathrooms come with under-mount sinks. The windows add

to the warm feel of the home as they provide ample natural light. As buyers roam the main floor, they check and recheck the size on the spec sheet, as this home feels much larger than it states because of its practical and liveable design.

way and shrubs. The property also has an existing garage pad in place (garage packages available), and the basement is prepared for future development and comes complete with exterior walls already framed, insulated, and wired.

The stairway to the second floor is fully carpeted leading to the bedrooms.

The first two rooms are a good size and smart design. The master bedroom can be defined as the command centre for the home. There is copious space for a king-size bed and furniture to accent as the owners see fit. It comes complete with an en suite bath, walk-in closet, and even a second level walk-out deck which features Duradeck decking and aluminum railings. Take all that into consideration, then include the fact that this personal patio is a wonderful perch to enjoy that first cup of coffee in the morning.

For those who haven’t had the opportunity to visit a River Ridge Home, seize the day!

Call Perry and Connie today at 227 7220.

They are proud to have had the opportunity to work with many families over the years, and would love to work with yours!

All the little extras This River Ridge home also offers many other valued features included in the price—many of which would be considered extras on many other homes. The list includes Kohler dual flush toilets, Kohler Coralaise chrome taps, central air conditioning, Samsung kitchen appliances, Maytag washer and dryer, VanEE heat recovery system, Carrier high efficient furnace, and front yard landscaping complete with sod, sprinklers, walk-

All fine River Ridge homes also come complete with the New Home Warranty of Saskatchewan and the peaceof-mind of dealing with a multiple award winner in the Saskatoon and Region Home Builders’ Association’s annual Bridges Awards and a recognized member of the Better Business Bureau.

River Ridge Homes has a good selection of lots in Stonebridge, Rosewood and Evergreen neighborhoods. FHS

River Ridge Homes (306) 227-7220 Perry or Connie Kenke www.riverridgehomes.ca

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LEXINGTON puts custom home elegance into new production model A tour of the Paget Cove show home

BY TAMMY ROBERT. PHOTOS BY GRANT ROMANCIA

P

ulling up to the Lexington Homes show home in Saskatoon’s much sought-after Willow Grove development, you immediately recognize that the stunning dwelling sets a higher standard of home construction and design.

Your eye is drawn to the clean, straight contours and sharp ninety degree corners that command the exterior from the roofline to foundation. Large windows beautifully frame the soft, bold lines of interior Hunter Douglas automated silhouette window treatments. A perfect accent to the home’s exterior while allowing natural north and south lighting to illumi-

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nate the interior. A glimpse of a magnificent and intriguing light fixture is caught balancing gracefully over the front foyer.

In short, at first sight, it leaves you wanting more.

And more is exactly what you get. Crossing through the custom-glassed front door and stepping inside you see more clean, classic beauty, combined with a refreshing modern elegance you simply won’t see anywhere else besides a Lexington Home.

Why? Because behind the scenes lies Jon Barkman, both the brains and brawn

behind the superior standards and quality guidelines that drive the Lexington Homes brand to the heights it has achieved today. Pride in workmanship and design are manifest in the gorgeous final product and abundant in Barkman’s demeanor as he lovingly provides a tour of the Padget Cove home.

“We decided to deviate from the ordinary custom-home building process and create an exclusive, high-end product at the encouragement of previous clients and contractors. The bottom line—we pride ourselves on the final product. We take our time on our projects. For ex-

ample, we never settle on a possession date for the sake of speed. Compromising on quality is simply not an option.”

The clean, strong lines abundant on the exterior of the home flow up the stairs of the modified bi-level and into the wide open floor plan of the kitchen and living area. “It’s seamless,” explains Barkman, pointing out the straight edges, sharp corners and lack of casings or moldings. “There isn’t an angle of the house we didn’t study and perfect.”

Seamless indeed—the space virtually breathes on its own, uninhibited by design frills or overly complicated finishings.

Light and airy, the natural elements of wood and water shine through the custom glass and tile work throughout the home.

Barkman partnered with the Glass Doctor, an internationally renowned company new to Saskatoon, on the custom-designed glasswork throughout the home.

Owner Jason Pingert worked with Lexington Homes exclusively as an introduction to our fair city, a collaboration that resulted in a jaw-dropping, 150-pound tempered glass sliding door separating the master bedroom from the ornate en suite bathroom. The power and strength of the glass flawlessly integrates into the decor, exuding the same contours and luminance. Smaller, lighter versions of frosted glass panels conceal perfectly proportioned inset cabinets set around the fireplace in the main floor living area.

Delicately striking, curvaceous stainless steel light fixtures are installed throughout the home, larger and smaller versions harmoniously illuminating the spaces they are assigned to brighten.

The Richardson’s Lighting fixtures—a whimsical departure from the straight lines dominating the home’s overall design—were Barkman’s inspiration for the curved pattern adorning the customized interior doors throughout the home, cre-

ated by Saskatoon’s GP Door Design and each carved out of a solid slab of MDF. “Every time an opportunity arose to make something unique and different, we did,” says Barkman. “When someone said, ‘You can just go grab that at the hardware store,’ a bell would go off and I knew everyone in the city would be doing exactly that. It was my cue to do the research, sourcing distinct hardware and accents from magazines, the Internet or the trade shows we attend all over Canada and the United States.”

It was at one of those trade shows that Barkman discovered iBus (by Channel Vision), a docking station for your iPod or iPhone, which he has installed in four locations throughout the show home. iBus allows you to access your playlist (via the home’s surround sound system), and conveniently use your iPhone on hands free—an invaluable convenience, especially in the kitchen or laundry room.

Saskatoon interior design authority Chantelle Butterfield teamed up with Lexington Homes to play an integral role in bringing together both the colour and texture palettes, and the functionality of the home’s layout. The minimalist galley kitchen is a reflection of the wisdom of this partner-

ship, showcasing Butterfield’s superb eye for the premium use of space, in tandem with artistic expression and the ultimate in aesthetic pleasure. Barkman extols the virtues of Butterfield’s ability to bring light, colour and texture together, bringing warmth to every aspect of the home.

The subtle yet sumptuous kitchen cabinet installation from Superior Cabinets’ Urban line frames an intricate glass mosaic and tiled backsplash, installed by Cornerstone Flooring. Cornerstone took care of both the flooring and the tile throughout the home. Impeccable, fullywrapped quartz in a warm nougat gleams across countertops, perfectly reflecting both the natural and artificial light that floods the kitchen and living space from floor to 10-foot ceiling windows.

The same nougat quartz can be found gracing the surfaces of the floating vanities in the main floor and en suite bathrooms, and in a unique twist, surrounding the drop tub in the en suite. Soft drop toilets come standard in both bathrooms, and custom glass shelving, alongside tile and glass mosaics accentuate the luxury that envelopes the en suite bathroom, which comes complete with bevelled mirrors and a dual walk-in shower.

With 2,500 square feet of finished space and a modern feel and finish that you are guaranteed not to find elsewhere, this home heralds a triumphant inaugural success as Lexington Homes steers into newer, high-end home construction waters.

Bonnie Barkman, owner of Lexington Homes, says it was 1996 when the family moved its company’s head office from Manitoba to Saskatoon. “When we arrived, we started out doing home building construction throughout Sas-

katoon,” she explains. “Today, we’re certain Saskatoon is ready for something different—new home construction clients are telling us that they’re sick and tired of opening the show home door and seeing the exact same thing.”

“There’s a demand for upscale excellence in this size of home,” continues Jon. “It’s a mid-range size, but this is the quality you’d see in the large, high-end builds.”

Most important to the Barkman’s is meeting and exceeding the standards they’ve developed for themselves and for their brand.

“In the end, it’s always going to be a Lexington Home—our standards are never compromised.”

Artwork supplied by Gail Prpick, renowned local artist with the exception of one piece supplied by Sandra Young, owner of Willows studio.

Furniture rentals supplied by Willows Studio. FHS

Lexington Homes & Construction Cell: (306) 291-4505 Office: (306) 955-4099 Fax: (306) 955-4091 info@lexington-construction.com 959 Fairbrother Close, Saskatoon, SK S7S 1J3

Experience the

Serenity of Saskatoon’s

best kept sepcret Rolling hills, native grass, natural water ponds, and bountiful trees are second to none in a quiet community located just 12 kilometres outside of Saskatoon.

Private lots of 5-7 acres available with natural walk out basements at grade level. Over 50% sold with no restrictions on which builder you can use.

Enjoy convenient amenities such as: city water, high speed internet, snowmobile trails, garbage pickup, transportation to Clavet School, outdoor skating in winter and a local convenience store all found in the quiet surroundings of Valley View Heights.

Enjoy evening walks in nature and the privacy of your own backyard. Unwind the stresses of life in a community with a great family atmosphere.

VV a

HRK Developments Ltd. l Box 101 Site 601 RR6 l Saskatoon SK l S7K 3J9 info@valleyviewheights.ca l 306-222-8396 www.valleyviewheights.ca

THE ALLURE OF THE CLAWFOOT: investing in nostalgia

BY KARIN MELBERG SCHWIER

Just what is the allure of the clawfoot bathtub? Realtors breathlessly list it as a coveted selling feature. We are willing to pay top dollar to soak in a replica of 19th Century luxury, that vessel of opulence. Some are willing to risk life and lung to reglaze and breathe life into an old, flakey, but authentic, original. Many homeowners long for this little piece of lavatorial nostalgia.

Lori Nadrowski, Showroom Sales Manager with Kitchen and Bath Classics in Saskatoon loves a good clawfoot. While there’s always been a steady trickle of annual sales to those renovating older homes, she’s noticed that this past year, more of her favourites than ever are going to people who are putting them in new homes and condominiums.

“I think a clawfoot tub just adds such a romantic flair to a bathroom,” she says, “A clawfoot, even in a new home, creates such a sense of history and permanence. I think it lends such cozy character. It’s not just for the character home.”

The cast iron, porcelain-lined tub was considered a luxury item by the healthconscious wealthy in the 1800s. That luxury didn’t stem from the most elegant beginnings. It’s said that in about 1880, Austrian-born John Kohler liked the look of horse troughs/hog scalders, and thought they’d make a great bathtub. When lined with porcelain, the design allowed for ease of cleaning and appealed to people who could afford to be concerned about germs and bacteria.

Not surprisingly, cast iron meant even the smallest tub was a back-breaker to install. Or remove, which is probably why originals are still found in modern homes. Today, reproductions are made in cast iron, but also in acrylic, some in

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acrylic and fiberglass blend, and come in a wide range of styles and prices. People still hold on to the notion that in order to be historically accurate, cast iron is the way to go. But Nadrowski says there are a lot of benefits to acrylic, including a wider range of styles. They’re cheaper (cast iron is more expensive to manufacture and ship) and for those worried about that authentic look, the acrylic with fiberglass outer finish is barely distinguishable from circa Grandma’s day.

Adrienne Zvacek, Principal Designer with Studio 2.0 in Saskatoon, says there are a few special considerations to weigh when deciding if a clawfoot is the right choice for a renovation or new home.

Style, focal point, space allowance and tap placement are all food for thought.

“Does the look of a clawfoot tub suit your style and the style of the space?” she asks. “In order to really show off this style of tub, you need to have it placed in the space to be at the forefront. A clawfoot style really requires some room around it,” she adds. “It should appear to be floating in the centre of the space. It needs space to breathe and show itself off.”

The question of tap placement may have you taking off your shoes and climbing in

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and out of tubs at the showroom. Also, a sloped ceiling can be problematic for the installation of a shower enclosure.

Nadrowski says a clawfoot, old or new, requires a little babying. Because of the porcelain surface, use no gritty cleaners. Even tinted cleaners are iffy. Nadrowski once used an orange-coloured gentle cleanser on her own clawfoot and regretted the move.

“Porcelain is very porous, so be careful! I’d go with cream and white colours in non-gritty cleansers. Don’t use anything that might etch or stain.”

Sometimes that surface may require something a bit more drastic. Many treasured and collectible original tubs are still structurally intact, but the porcelain has suffered. Even the bravest of do-ityourselfers might balk when it comes to doing a home refinishing job. An on-line “how to reglaze a clawfoot tub” feature makes the fight or flight gene kick in with heavy leanings toward the run away option. Scary phrases like respiratory mask, eye protection, sand blaster, body filler, rubber gloves, and the particularly nasty ‘hydrofluoric acid’ may wisely steer you toward a professional.

Nadrowski strongly recommends finding a good professional to do the job.

Whatever path traveled, new or re-glazed, the ambiance created when a clawfoot is the focal point in the bathroom is unsurpassed. Bev and Murray Drew did a mammoth renovation to their 1912 home in Saskatoon’s historic Buena Vista.

Their clawfoot sits invitingly beneath a skylight and next to a neo angle shower, water-heated towel warmer and custom vanity. It’s surrounded by stunning Japanese wall tile. Era-conscious Bev said the clawfoot was the absolute right choice.

“The clawfoot tub was important in our renovation because of the age and character of our home,” Bev explains. “Although we have modern elements throughout, keeping a mix of old and new gives us modern convenience and workability with the old fashioned charm of a 1912 character home.”

Historical influence aside, Bev concedes that there are benefits for a professional couple who enjoy space to relax. “The other factor in choosing a claw foot tub,” she says, “is that they are extremely comfortable. There’s nothing like it to slip into at the end of a long day. Just lay back and soak. It’s heavenly.” FHS

THE INVITATION TO CONDO LIVING YOU’VE BEEN WAITING FOR

BY BRADEN DUPUIS

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D

riving up to the Aqua Terra condominiums in Saskatoon, the first thing you may notice is the cascading waterfall that adorns the front of the building. It’s an inviting touch that hints at the elements of modern architecture waiting inside. Once inside, you’ll probably be drawn to the intricate interior design that starts in the foyer and carries on through every suite. You’ll take note of the granite countertops and the ninefoot ceilings. You’ll look through the big bright picture windows and take in the developing community below. And you might just find yourself wanting to stay.

The condos bear the mark of developer Giustino Mazza, a man with more than 42 years of construction experience.

After four decades developing projects ranging from family and luxury homes to apartments and commercial facilities,

Mazza seems to have found his niche in the world of condominium development.

For the last five years he has been focusing his talents exclusively on condos, and the results cannot be denied after witnessing the immaculate design of the Aqua Terra building. Mazza’s previous project, the 126-unit Casa Bella buildings, provided all the experience and technical know-how necessary to create the stateof-the-art facility that is the Aqua Terra.

The Aqua Terra building itself is a sight to behold. From the exterior waterfall that welcomes you as you drive onto the lot to the super-sized balconies attached to every suite, the project is brimming with architectural ingenuity. The building is a model of efficiency, featuring a full acrylic stucco system and insulation around the building’s exterior designed to keep the heat through the coldest of winter nights.

Sound reduction technologies throughout the building ensure residents a peaceful atmosphere at any time of day or night.

Aqua Terra also features an innovative heating system, featuring both forced air heat and luxurious in-floor radiant heating.

Convenient touches Underneath it all is a spacious, heated underground garage, complete with a fullsized pressurized wash bay for days when your vehicle just isn’t looking its best.

To help with the pains of moving, every suite in the building comes equipped with stainless steel appliances in the kitchen (fridge, stove, microwave and dishwasher), as well as a washer and dryer in the spacious in-suite laundry rooms.

Aqua Terra living is an adaptable lifestyle,

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flexible to the specific needs of its many owners. For those intent on keeping fit, there is an equipped exercise room. Nature lovers can explore the many nearby walking trails, and those who fear the icy sting of winter mornings don’t have to brave the frigid temperatures to start their cars. The over-sized balconies—the largest the city has to offer in the $299,000 to $450,00 price range—provide the perfect space for evening relaxation and entertaining company. The extra space provides owners with the room for a full patio set. Gas outlets on every balcony allow for those perfect summer evening barbecues, made all the more sublime by the many panoramic views still available.

Customizable The flexibility of the Aqua Terra lifestyle extends also to the realm of personal style. The building is somewhat of a custom project, in that tenants are able to choose their own colour schemes and flooring. The incredible interiors, crafted by professional designer Charlene Schumacher of Fresco Interiors, give tenants the freedom to pick and customize from one of four main themes: Coastal Living, Mo-

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cha Sands, Malaysian Palm or Graphite Canyon. Each theme offers its own unique qualities, giving owners the opportunity to create a space they can truly call their own. And once you’ve got it just the way you like it and you’re finished unpacking and settling in, you can rest assured that your suite is insured by a five-year blanket home warranty by Lloyds of London.

Best of both worlds When buying an Aqua Terra condo, you’re immersing yourself in the best of both worlds. Located in the burgeoning University Heights district in northeast Saskatoon, the building is surrounded by modern suburban neighbourhoods, giving it the feel of a tight-knit community without the distractions of contemporary city life. The city’s main core is always accessible when you need it, with the nearby Attridge Drive flowing right into Circle Drive and the rest of the city. You may find, however, that all of the conveniences necessary for comfortable living are within walking distance of your front door. The area is flush with grocery stores, restaurants, banks, medical facilities, churches and schools, as well as an excellent bus

service for distances a little too far to walk.

Whether it is luxury, convenience or solitude you’re looking for, you’re sure to find it at Aqua Terra. Featuring all of the regular functions of a house, but at a much lower price, these condos may be just what you’ve been waiting for. Backed by an expert developer, impeccable design team, and located in one of the best young neighbourhoods in Saskatoon, it’s not likely that these units, already more than half sold, are going to last. FHS Aqua Terra Condos are priced from 299,900 to 442,900 (Net GST included) Show Suites open: Mon- Fri: 7:00 - 9:00pm Sat - Sun: 1:00 - 4:00pm For more information call Gerry Lagimodiere RE/MAX Saskatoon 306-222-2229 saskatoondreamhome.com aquaterraliving.com Virtual Tour: http://www.myvisuallistings.com/vt/52423

AQUA terra condominiums

EXPERTAdvice CONDOS

What is a condo?

Brent Herman 5-3012 Louise Street Saskatoon, SK T: 306.341.2001 E: brent@brentherman.com www.brentherman.com

The traditional view of a condominium is an apartment-style home, but the concept refers more to a style of ownership rather than a style of dwelling. Condos can be apartments, townhouses or even single-family homes, where you own your individual dwelling space while you, along with your neighbours, coown any common areas. Typically the overall property is managed by a condominium board or owners’ association.

Is the condo lifestyle right for me?

Frequently, condos are thought of as being either a vehicle for entry-level home ownership, (young professionals) or a down-sizing exercise (retirees). In reality—particularly since condos come in all shapes and sizes—a condo could even be the right choice for raising a family. The key here comes down to whether you are comfortable with shared ownership.

Typically, shared ownership has the advantage of less responsibility for upkeep and maintenance, as this is usually contracted out by the board, but could mean a significant time commitment depending on how active you choose to be in the association. There is also a financial commitment in the form of condo fees.

Tyler Hildebrand Precedence Mortgage Strategies 261 1st Avenue N., Suite 400 Saskatoon, SK S7K 1X2 306.683.9539 precedencemortgage.com SK Broker No. 315819 l SK Brokerage No. 315741 Precedence Mortgage Strategies is a Divison of Sky Financial Corporation – The Mortgage Centre

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What do I get for my condo fees?

The short answer is: it depends on the condo. Typically, though, part of the fee goes to day-to-day maintenance (i.e., janitorial and landscaping services) and management of the property (such as administration of contracts and insurance) while another portion goes into a reserve fund for future capital expenditures

(new roof, painting etc.). Some condos, usual apartment-style properties, may even include heat and water in the fees.

Because all condos comprise different amenities, however, it is very important you obtain detailed disclosure of the amount and disposition of fees.

Should I buy into a new or established condo?

Both new and established condos have their advantages and disadvantages. With an established property you can easily gauge the effectiveness of the owners’ association both visually by inspection of the property and financially through financial statements. It is important to recognize that the condominium is a corporation of which you will become a member and to investigate the past performance of that corporation. With a new condo, there is no past performance to investigate, but the advantage is you are getting in on the ground level, so to speak, and could therefore potentially exercise more control over the future success of the organization. In either case, there are many legal considerations for buying into a condo, as wells as, vast differences in how restrictive the rules and regulations are. The best advice is to hire professionals to help you through the process.

Is my condo going to hold its value?

Whether or not a condo holds its value is subject to the same considerations as any property—selling price, neighbourhood, upkeep, proximity to amenities and the strength of the real estate market, being the most obvious. Unlike a singleownership dwelling, however, special attention should be paid to the strength of the corporation, both in terms of management and financial performance. FHS

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BY THOM BARKER. PHOTOS BY HEATHER FRITZ They live in Beverly Hills, California. They are rich and famous. Their house is, no question, a mansion at more than 16,000 square feet. But for Shannon Tweed, Gene Simmons and their kids, Nick (22) and Sophie (19) it is the family home.

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“I like things to be homey,” Tweed told Fine Homes Saskatoon. “I designed it with an architect whose work I liked because I didn’t want to be obsessed with art. I wanted the outdoors to be the art so I wanted windows everywhere. It’s California so we can afford that luxury, it’s not like you have to heat the place. I wanted an open living space, kitchen, living room area which is where we spend most of our time. The formal entry, dining room and formal living room are, I would say, only used on the TV show [Gene Simmons Family Jewels]. I really only think we built it so that if we ever decided to resell, it would have its resale value.”

Family home is the distinct impression the house made on Saskatoon photographer Heather Fritz, who flew to Los Angeles to take pictures for this feature.

“What really struck me was that it was just like anybody’s home,” Heather said. “I mean, it’s huge and it’s full of beautiful things, but nothing is really over-the-top and it just has a real welcoming feel to it.”

The Tweed-Simmons family has lived in the home for about 12 years and recently Tweed decided it was time for a change in décor, replacing furniture, rugs and wallpaper.

BEFORE THE MAKE-OVER. PHOTOS BY ELAINE CULOTTI

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“I got tired of it,” she said. “It was old and it’s been trampled on by the camera crews for five or six years, so it was time for an overhaul.”

She didn’t get to do everything she wanted to, though, for the same reason most people don’t.

“The only limitation was the old pocketbook,” she said. “I have to do these things in stages or [Gene] gets shell-shocked. I would have also put in better lighting, better electronics and redone all the cabinetry. I’ll probably do it in about a year or so.”

While the house itself is fairly modern, the décor has an almost old-world kind of feel to it, something Tweed is attracted to, again, because of its homey-ness.

“There’s a few antiques sprinkled in with some newer stuff,” she said. “There’s sort of a solid feel to it. I like, not your mother’s furniture, but kind of a new twist on your mom’s old stuff. You know, like a good solid couch and a rich fabric. Scalamandré fabrics are some of the best in the business and I used their [wall]papers and their fabrics, they’re just so sturdy and rich. I think it gives a feeling of permanence of a home, if your kids want to come back to you. I like the feeling of family; I like the feeling of home.”

Adding to that feeling of home and family are hundreds of family photos and knick knacks spread liberally about on virtually every surface.

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“I verge on a hoarder, I really do, and I have to pull back sometimes and take some crap off the tables,” Tweed joked. “I have a big family so it’s getting a little cluttered, but I don’t mind as long as it’s clean and organized clutter and I know where everything is. I don’t do it to please anybody else. I didn’t make a home for architectural digest or anything; I just made it for ourselves.”

The best redecorating decision she made, Tweed said, was hiring interior decorator Elaine Culotti then stepping aside and letting Culotti run with it.

“Elaine Culotti, from Porta Bella did Paul Stanley’s [KISS guitarist] house and I was initially just going to put some rug runner on the stairs and I asked Paul’s wife, Erin [Sutton], who did her carpeting and she said Elaine. So I went to Elaine’s store and she just had great taste. We went over some colours and tastes and then I took a vacation and when I came back it was done. It’s much easier that way than trying to micromanage.”

It did have a couple of drawbacks, though.

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“Now I have to rethink the pattern that we put on the ceiling in the family room because now it’s fighting with the pottery, so I might have to calm down the print on the panels on the ceiling. I wanted to do something up there because it was so plain before, but I might have picked something too wild.

“And then I have to find something to replace that yellow coffee table in the living room because everything else is yellow. We’re going to replace that with a dark wooden one. I haven’t picked one yet, but those are probably the only changes I’ll make.”

Still, Tweed stands by the decision to give Culotti free reign.

“It’s easier now to just redo that one part I’m not crazy about than it is to sit around and worry about people moving stuff and where they’re going to put it and this and that.”

Of course, no home would be complete without a little dash of kitsch. For Tweed, it’s the life-sized butler statue “Jeeves” who stands sentry, serving tray in hand in the dining room. She saw it at a flea market for $200 and knew it would be the perfect gift for Simmons.

“I thought, you know, Gene would have fun with it,” she explained. “Now, every time someone comes in the house, he says, ‘walk right up and look in Jeeves’ eyes,’ because they look really real. So people get up really close and then he goes, “Ahhh!” and they jump to high heaven. He does it every time and everybody falls for it.” FHS

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Today’s integrated home entertainment options are as varied as the people who are opting for them as Saskatoon gets

WIRED

BY LINDA EPSTEIN

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I

can’t tell you how often I have lobbied my friends not to buy large televisions for their small and medium rooms. The picture is distorted and bad for the eyes, I argued. Bigger is not necessarily better.

Yet, more and more homeowners are installing high performance theatre rooms with gigantic screens in their homes, sometimes in rooms not much bigger than a regular living room. Why? As David Puls, CEO and Chief Creative Officer of Pulswork Audio Arts in Saskatoon is fond of saying, “The proof of the pudding is in the eating.” So I stepped into a 9 x12 room with a massive screen—a home theatre—and discovered that there was no distortion, even when I stood right beside the screen.

Instead, I felt part of the action, part of the experience. I was an instant convert.

Then, I discovered the difference: I was not watching an overgrown LCD or plasma screen…it was a projection screen. Clear.

Sharp. And no pixels. Just pure enjoyment.

The added benefits call to mind the saying: “You cannot create experience. You must undergo it.” Create the experience of family. Create the experience of knowing where your children are, because their friends want to hang out where you can keep tabs on them. And create the experience of lifestyle possibilities.

Of course, this kind of experience comes with a price tag, especially when designing for performance level and quality. But, when you are already creating a dedicated space, why not build the room of

your dreams? “Today, technology properly set up is simple to operate, and the possibilities are incredible,” says Puls.

That elevated experience won’t happen, of course, without pitch perfect and all-enveloping sound. Top quality speakers, well-placed in your space.

Then again, perhaps a home theatre is not even on your wish list. You might just want to consider—as so many are— a supreme multi-room sound system.

In our ever-changing world, music itself is defining and redefining our personal environment and is changing the world in which we live. The technology available is beyond what could have been imagined even a few years ago.

As more people choose to install the best in music technology in their homes, sound systems are no longer just a stereo in a single room, but rather a multiroom network that encircles the listener and resonates with fine sound, no matter what the price-point. And as speakers get smaller, the sound, the simplicity of use and the pleasure grows.

Today, high performance technology, properly set up, can yield amazing sound and stunning quality. As one homeowner put it: “I ordered speakers hoping to bring some life to my entertainment system; I never imagined it would bring room-filling sound to my entire home.”

Indeed, top-of-the-line home audio is about more than just hearing music, movies, or your favourite televi-

sion show. It’s about sensing it through to the inner core of your being. As Puls says, “It’s not about just pushing pieces together. It’s about making a symphony—that’s when the magic happens.”

So what do you need to consider when you want to bring that magic into your home?

How do you kick your system up a notch?

You might have used the first rule when you purchased your house—location, location, location. Today’s wireless systems allow increased flexibility for speaker placement. Not only are you able to position your speakers wherever you want within a room, you have the option to place them throughout your house—even outside.

Depending on the size of your home, determine whether you need a simple audio system with additional compact units strategically placed, or multiple speakers throughout your home and where to place components for optimum enjoyment.

Consider how you use your system, and how others in your home might use it. If you have a home theatre, you could possibly hook your audio speakers into the existing system. If your family uses your audio system for television or gaming, you may want to add a compact system into your kitchen so you can separate your musical choice from the booms and crashes from adjoining rooms. Or a multiple audio network will allow you to vary the music in different rooms of your house. You might even want to link “zones” so that you can hear the same music as you move around your home.

Consider your tastes. Audiophiles and home audio enthusiasts have so many more choices today. As homeowners in Saskatoon invest in the magic of new possibilities, they are discovering, for example, that they can integrate the early tube, turntable and “hi-fi” technology into their system yielding rich, warm tonality and offering audio so pure they can hear the finest details. Or they can install a system that turns their home into an audio paradise.

The bottom line is to choose the best quality system you can afford—the one that will meet your needs and will provide enjoyment for years to come. Like fine wine, it is the lifestyle choice that keeps on giving. FHS

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EXPERTAdvice COMPUTERS

Jerry Kapeluck

Jer’s Computer Consulting 306.222.9730 jerry@jerscomputerconsulting.com www.jerscomputerconsulting.com It still amazes me how computers and technology have fit into almost all aspects of our lives. Almost everybody, no matter their age, uses a computer on a daily basis.

In fact, many of my current clients have several devices—a desktop at home, a laptop at the office, and a smart phone for in between. And usually all are connected to a network and website. It’s become a tech heavy world. And although all of these wonderful gadgets are designed to simplify and streamline our lives, few of us have the knowledge to fix them if something goes wrong. This is how and why I began my business, and why I became skilled in both Mac and Microsoft products. The most rewarding thing that I still find is the ability to fix problems, answer questions, offer training, and provide support. Here are the most common concerns brought to me by clients:

maintenance program in place for our computers which are just as important in our daily lives. Just think about what happens when your car breaks down—you’re stranded, stressed, and usually it means you have to spend more money. A sensible and inexpensive on-site maintenance program for your computer can avoid downtime and frustration, optimize performance, and avoid a more expensive repair bill in the future. When you put it into perspective, it really is a good investment. As far as the repair goes, many of my clients say it’s inconvenient to unhook everything and haul it in. It only makes sense to take the repair to them! With 24-hour, seven days a week, on site calls, no one has to cart anything anywhere. On site calls usually cut the repair time, so (depending on the situation) it’s less expensive than the traditional repair.

Keep in mind that repairs at the shop can take a week or more, instead of one evening at home.

Web design and consultation For big and small businesses alike, some form of Internet presence in today’s market is crucial. Consumers are more active online than in previous years, so if a business can’t be found quickly in a search engine (for example, Bing or Google), it could hurt your revenue. Common misconceptions

are that you need to spend thousands of dollars and months of design time to have an effective website. In reality, you just need something that’s functional and user friendly. Partner that with a search engine optimization (SEO) set up so it will draw the largest amount of traffic and potential customers, and you’re good to go! When consulting with many of my smaller clients, we can do this effectively and professionally in a very short timeframe, starting at one thousand dollars and up, depending on their requirements.

Understanding networks The problem with most office networks is that they are not operated by computer experts. Very few of the companies who set up those networks offer the people using them the training needed to understand, operate, and maintain them effectively.

For many of the people I set up networks for, it makes sense to offer one-on-one, or group training after the installation process is complete. It usually tends to be a very inexpensive investment, and in the long run it saves money and downtime for everyone.

Jer’s Computer Consulting offers on site 24/7 emergency computer repair, virus removal, system back up, web design, on- site group and one-on-one training, for both residential and commercial clients. FHS

Computer maintenance and repair Although we spend hundreds of dollars on a fall maintenance checkup for our automobiles, very few of us have a regular

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HD Advantage: Hunter Douglas offers the industry’s largest collection of energy-efficient, custom-made window treatments. Designed and assembled in Canada and the U.S., backed by a Lifetime Limited Warranty, our sheers, shades, honeycombs, blinds and shutters can be customized with lifting systems for added safety and convenience.

For Best Selection Visit Days Paints & Design TODAY

EXPERTAdvice BLINDS AND DOWNSIZING

Michelle Rowlett Day’s Paints & Design 701 2nd Ave N. 306.244.4721 www.dayspaints.com 7 0 1 - 2 N D AV E N U E N .

PA I N T S

DESIGN W W W. D AY S PA I N T S . C O M

Q: My husband is a gadget guy and loves the idea of home automation systems. We’re looking to update our blinds and I’ve heard of blinds that can be controlled with a remote.

Is this possible?

A RT W O R K PA I N T S

D E S I G N E R FA B R I C S

C U S TO M T I N T A E R O S O L S WA L L PA P E R

W I N D O W FA S H I O N S

C O M P U T E R C O L O U R M AT C H I N G C O L O U R C O N S U LTAT I O N S D E S I G N S E RV I C E S U P H O L S T E RY

A: The answer to that question is a definite yes.

There are many options when looking for motorized blinds. It is possible to hardwire the blinds directly into your electrical system, but something like that has to be taken care of at the time your electrician is wiring the house. In the case of an existing home needing an update, the easiest way to obtain nearly the same results would be with a battery-powered system.

The battery life for motorized blinds is

PHOTOS BY BLACK BENCH PRODUCTIONS

about one year, though the first set often doesn’t last as long due to the novelty of the gadget. Many blinds are operated with one remote control, but it is also possible to operate the blinds from a smartphone, or to put the blinds on timers.

you, but that is usually an unrealistic option.

When considering your options with motorization, ask to try a sample that is equipped with motorization and make sure that you are comfortable with the options available, the styles that are offered, and of course, the cost. As one would expect, choosing a motorized blind will affect the bottom line.

Maybe you are fortunate enough to replace all of your old furnishings with new. If not, the next step is to measure your current furniture. Will it realistically fit into your new space? What must you absolutely take with you? Perhaps this is the perfect opportunity to let go of pieces that have outstayed their welcome.

Most styles of blinds have this motorized option, so you should have no trouble finding motorized blinds that match your décor. Adding motorization to your new blinds is an easy way to update your window treatments, and get in on the trend of home automation.

Scale of furniture, accessories and art are very important when downsizing. A smaller scale condo may precipitate a change of key pieces to suit your new surroundings.

Q: After 20 years in the same house, we are down-sizing to a new condo.

How can we make that transition with our current furnishings?

A:

Downsizing after many years in the same house can be both exciting and stressful. You may want to be able to take everything from your current home with

To start, walk through your new home with a critical eye. Take accurate measurements of the rooms noting the locations of cable outlets, windows, floor vents, and any other items that may impact furniture layout.

Deciding which pieces will make the move and which will not. Once those decisions are made, it may be time to go shopping. Making your new condo a home is your goal. Mixing existing pieces with new ones makes for an interesting and personal space. Whenever possible, I try to re-use or re-purpose existing elements in a home. Maybe your old end table becomes a nightstand in your new condo. If you go into this transition with an open mind and an optimistic spirit, the transition will be smooth. FHS

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FROM YOUR WIRING TO YOUR SURROUND SOUND, STEIN HAS IT ALL

BY SUZANNE HUBER PHOTOS BY BLACK BENCH PRODUCTIONS

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tein Electric was originally founded over 30 years ago in Saskatoon by Gerald Stein. After growing up in rural Saskatchewan, Gerald moved to Edmonton, AB and obtained his Masters in the electrical field. Wanting to return to more of a small town feel, Gerald moved his family to Saskatoon to provide electrical and lighting services for both residential homes and commercial buildings in the community.

Gerald has since retired and passed his company onto his son, Trevor Stein.

Trevor leads a team of 24 employees and has expanded the business’ offerings by bringing in exclusive home audio dealers to Saskatoon businesses and homeowners. When Trevor is not busy helping clients with electrical and home audio needs, you may see him out with his five daughters at sporting events and at school activities in the Saskatoon community.

One stop shop for the best in home audio Stein Electric has recently gotten into the latest in home audio equipment and lighting because the company wanted to provide a full solution for their customers.

It just made sense to Trevor that if they were providing all of the electrical and lighting in a home or commercial property that they could also install the final product as well, so his clients would not have to do more searching around to complete the set up. Stein Electric now offers products from reputable brands such as RBH, Bowers & Wilkins, Colorado vNet, Rotel, and Russound to its customers.

It may be time to update your electrical “Usually after 15 years it is time to check in on your electrical,” says Trevor. Home renovators have especially been taking up interest in adding new home audio services offered by Stein Electric to add some luxury and ambiance to their existing living space. From home theatre systems with audio in multiple rooms throughout

the home, to home security cameras that also provide weather forecasts, there is no shortage to the possibilities that can be customized into your home by Stein Electric and its providers.

Lighting the ambiance Stein Electric provides custom lighting solutions. “If someone does not like where the placement of a switch is going to be, we can change it and put it exactly where they like,” says Trevor. Whether you want the candlelight effect during dinner or simply a remote to turn the lights off in your master bedroom while you are in bed, your lighting can be tailored to your lifestyle and personal convenience by adding a little luxury to your home with the latest technology out there.

From the recording studio to your home Stein Electric is the exclusive dealer of Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), an English company that has spent over 40

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years researching the technological development of sound with one goal in mind: to create the perfect loudspeaker.

At the lab in Steyning, near Worthing, England, they have elevated the science of sound analysis to a fine art and now deliver sound through a range of different frequencies. Simply put, they make the best speakers. B&W speakers can add a contemporary feel to a room while delivering superior sound or they can be hidden and out of sight.

For those who find the sight of speakers distracting B&W has developed a range of custom installation speakers making them as invisible as possible for those that find the sight distracting. Refusing to compromise on sound quality, you will see nothing and hear everything with top-of-the-range custom-installed speakers. Listen to every pin drop or earth shaking explosion with invisible speakers hidden with precise care to ensure you are getting great sound from every angle concealed neatly in your wall or ceiling.

Skip going to the movies Watch them with your personal home theatre and listen to films as they are meant to sound at the theatre with

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B&W’s advanced technology. B&W’s CT800 model allows you to listen to rich sounds and feel like you are part of the action in the film with their utterly immersive system that delivers the cinema experience without having to deal with parking and long line ups. Welcome the best cinema in town into your home and enjoy the entertainment with your loved ones.

Not ready to commit to surround sound?

Panorama has created the perfect speaker for your flat screen that you probably don’t know exists. The sleek speaker delivers the excitement of surround sound but does not clutter your room with boxes and wires. A combination of complex DPS technology and carefully selected and positioned drive units creates a sound field that mimics the effect of a multi-speaker surround sound system with a built-in subwoofer and amplifier that handles the biggest TV movie effects. Surround yourself with sound, not speakers.

Ditch the light switches, audio controls, thermostats and security keyboards Stein Electric carries the brand Colorado vNet that offers a fully-integrated system

that eliminates the clutter of multiple switches and keypads in your home with one consolidated touch screen. The contemporary system has an easy to use Color Touchscreen Amplifier that controls the settings of your home audio, security systems, home temperature, lights and more. Combine all of your home’s settings with one user friendly keypad.

Sophisticated room design Whether you are hosting a party in your backyard or soaking in the tub, you can schedule your playlist from your IPod dock, listen to vNet AM/FM or select your favourite Sirius satellite station to deliver the audio you want to hear with vNet multi-room audio technology.

The Home Integration System also encompasses lighting control, security, climate, CCTV cameras, and weather.

The system also has the ability to control other sub-systems within a residence or commercial space including blinds, fireplaces, irrigation systems and more.

Keeping it safe and sound Stein Electric not only provides all of the latest in home audio but home security too. “I like to be able to look on my phone

or laptop at the lake and see how my house is doing,” says Trevor explaining how the home security cameras work with Colorado vNet. If you want peace of mind knowing that everything is okay at home, you can check in from anywhere online with the new features of the contemporary control panel. See the front of your house or your master bedroom from your smart phone.

Don’t get out of bed Save time and steps by conveniently controlling lights throughout your house with one keypad touch. From the comfort of your bed, simply touch the GOODNIGHT button to turn off the main lights, dim the landscape, and set nightlights for your home. In the morning, let the natural light in with another touch to open all the shades in your home. Save energy with your custom automated settings so your lighting is used

only when you need it. Go to sleep and wake up to the music of your choice. Use a timed playlist to put yourself to sleep or motivate yourself to get out of bed on the same panel.

Expecting guests?

Hosting? Touch the ENTERTAIN button, to illuminate outdoor lighting, accent your art pieces, turn on the fireplace, and pre-plan lighting throughout the house to the desired levels. Getting cozy to watch a movie? Hit the MOVIE button which dims the lights, lowers the shades, and starts the DVD player. These are just a few examples of the atmosphere you can create with a Colorado vNet Lighting & Control System.

What you can still expect after 30 years with Stein Electric Trevor makes sure that proper care is taken for all Stein Electric clients. “I do a walkthrough of their house in advance and make sure to talk to them and ask questions to make sure they understand how everything is going to work,” says Trevor. Whether you are installing electrical and lighting or a fully-integrated audio system into your home, you can trust that your needs will be taken care of by the caring staff at Stein Electric. FHS

Trevor and Gerald Stein

Stein Electric Trevor Stein 2-811 51st Street East 306.242.6577 trevorpaulstein@gmail.com

SECURITY AND CELLULAR PLUS

BY TAMMY CEASER. PHOTOS BY BLACK BENCH PRODUCTIONS

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“Our staff is constantly learning about each individual product, as they actually use the products they will be promoting to customers. It’s the best way to understand what separates one from the other.”

F

or an outsider, one would see the kindergartener on the playground with the cell phone as someone who wanted to be just like his dad. To those that knew this little guy back in 1994, they saw a family success story in the making. What started as modest business 22 years ago has become an impressive store, newly revamped and owned by Richard Worth.

Experience on a Cellular Level Shopping for a new phone can be a headache, trying to figure out what phone works for you, getting distracted by fancy accessories and a multitude of price points ...often in a busy, disruptive setting. Security and Cellular Plus makes it a much easier process.

The store is set up like a chic and modern boutique, with a sublime feel.

The sales floor features a central glass island showcasing all the available phone models. It looks fun and inviting, and easy for the customer to approach and experience without feeling awkward. A lounge area is complete with a copy of the daily newspaper and local magazines for the customer’s enjoyment.

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Surprisingly, the exterior walls are not walls, but contemporary glass offices where you can consult one on one with an actual product expert. In this easygoing yet confidential environment, they will offer you the SaskTel product and plan that best suits your needs. At Security and Cellular Plus, you will experience a unique shopping experience in comfortable surroundings.

When people marvel over the new technology, Worth smiles remembering those first phones; the old and inferior cells looked like an old military walkietalkie or something from the set of Miami Vice. “A lot of people don’t remember the analog phones or bag phones. Being in this industry for as long as I have, there isn’t a phone I DON’T remember.” Those cumbersome, brick-like phones have been replaced by sleek and functional phones: Androids... BlackBerry™ smartphones …

Wi-Fi... Bluetooth ... 4G networks... all the latest and greatest in modern technology.

While phones continue to transform into more amazing contraptions, some things remain blissfully consistent. When you enter Security and Cellular Plus, the staff greets you with a smile. Located on Idylwyld Drive, just one block north of 22nd Street, you can see how they love their job, and appreciate the faith longtime customers have towards them. “Earning

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their business” is a phrase Richard Worth lives by and no one follows it or believes in it like he does. Security and Cellular Plus is one of the great family success stories in Saskatoon and area.

As a second generation owner, Rich and his entire team work hard to ensure their clients receive top notch service and stay well connected with today’s technology.

Every customer is important and they show you that as soon as you enter the store.

Order By Phone You’ll be amazed at the number of options available on the SaskTel network, making it incredibly important to find the phone that best suits the needs of each individual. Each phone has its own set of unique features and benefits, and at Security and Cellular Plus they understand the differences and match those features to the individual needs of each consumer.

“Our staff is constantly learning about each individual product, as they actually use the products they will be promoting to customers. It’s the best way to understand what separates one from the other. Plus, we continuously ask our current customers for feedback on how each one is performing for them,” says Rich. “We have many customers still

coming in today who purchased their very first cell phone from my parents Rick and Shirley 22 years ago,” Worth continues, “Regardless of the phone you choose, you will get great service from SaskTel, and our company stands behind the products we provide.”

SaskTel SecurTekInsuring your family’s safety Every home should be equipped with a security system to protect your possessions, but more importantly, ensuring the safety of your family is paramount. It’s too late to think about security AFTER the loss occurs, which is almost always the case. Anyone who has ever experienced a break-in knows just how costly, inconvenient, and upsetting the incident can be. It is also very frustrating when you know all the stress could have been easily avoided. Most spend more on a daily coffee and muffin than it would cost to provide protection for our homes and families.

Purchasing a security package is such a minor investment, but when you consider the alternative, it’s a justifiable expense.

This investment is easily one of the most effective ways you can ensure peace-ofmind knowing your family is safe and your valuable assets protected. The installation charge is very affordable and a monthly monitoring fee is as little as $20 a month even less if you bundle Home Security with other SaskTel services. For such a nominal fee, it seems to be a simple purchasing decision for your home and family. In addition, most insurance agencies provide a discount if you have a Home Security package.

SecurTek, a SaskTel service, provides monitoring for all residential and business security systems locally in Saskatchewan, ensuring quick response time in the event of an alarm. “For quite some time we have been promoting SecurTek... our customers are not just customers, but friends…It’s an easy thing for most when they see the bundle savings, and the peace of mind it will provide.”

A Bundle of Joy – with Max Entertainment Services Max is SaskTel’s digital television service.

You can customize your own package with some of the following options; Max HD: It’s time to feel like you’re a part of the action with SaskTel Max. Max Entertainment Services have over 50 brilliant HD channels, tons of digital TV channels, and it comes with high speed internet and Video on Demand movies at one low price.

the web or your smartphone. Don’t worry if you’re stuck in traffic, out of town, or at ball practice, just use your smartphone to catch your top show. And now all you need is ONE DTVR in your home to get full DTVR control on all your TVs. Never miss a minute of all your favorite TV shows again with Max DTVR! Visit sasktel.com for details.

Security and Cellular Plus is an authorized SaskTel dealer, retailing Wireless, SaskTel Max, SaskTel Internet services, and SecurTek Home Security. Stop in to see the difference Security and Cellular Plus can make for you. FHS

Max Front Row: SaskTel’s Max Front Row Video on Demand has tons of great movies available any time you want. With the push of a remote button you and your family have instant access to a wide variety of new movie titles – many in DIVINE HD! A great movie, the couch, and your favorite blanket – thank you Max Front Row! Max DTVR: With the ENHANCED Max Digital TV recorder, you can set your recordings remotely from anywhere using

Security and Cellular Plus 211 Idylwyld Drive North 306. 242.9288 www.securityandcellular.com

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SOUNDS SO GOOD THEY’LL PUT THEIR SIGNATURE ON IT

BY TAMMY ROBERT . PHOTOS BY BLACK BENCH PRODUCTIONS community cemented that plan. “From there, Signature Home Automation was born,” Bill continues. “The name states a very simple message—our signature on your home.”

A sound foundation

O

nce upon a time, two guys had a dream. Hangin’ out at stereo stores on the weekend, buying up 45s and eight-track cassettes—the duo shared a passion for audio, and knew one day they’d turn that passion into a business.

Those two guys were Chuck Ingerman and Bill Yano, who have today turned that dream into a reality called Signature Home Automation. Whether you’re in the market for a brand new or custom builthome, or renovating your existing space,

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the addition of a whole home audio or theatre system designed to meet your needs and installed by Bill and Chuck could leave you never wanting to leave your home again.

“Chuck has a computer science background, and mine is in sales and marketing,” Bill explains. “After designing and installing the automation systems in our own homes, we decided it would be a great business to get into one day.” Further discussion over a regular tee-off time and consultations with the local business

While Bill and Chuck can outfit your home top to bottom with the latest and greatest in everything from automated lighting to Internet or smartphone access, the foundation of their business lies in the design and installation of sound systems that will blow your mind. Whether it’s a simple 5.1 surround sound system for a small room or a sexy-sounding 7.1 system for a full-blown home theatre, the experts at Signature know just how to maximize your listening enjoyment based on room size and layout.

Featuring all the top players in high end, hi-fi technology, including unbelievable amplifiers from Parasound, Bill and Chuck can create a soundscape that will leave you breathless. And don’t forget about outside your home. No more boom boxes or turning up the volume inside so you can hear it while you’re lounging in the hot tub or grilling in the outdoor kitchen.

Signature can outfit your deck or yard so you can transfer your personal groove from inside to out at the push of a button.

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“If you’re into sound, you might want a room that you can chill out in... soft lights, nice furniture and big, traditional sound hardware,” says Bill, when asked what’s hot on today’s home automation scene. “Modern audio equipment is often designed like art or furniture--not only in the functional aspect—but a style element of the room. Others may prefer equipment that blends into the décor over a bold, muscular look, or whole house audio package, supplying music to every room. Perhaps your wish list includes a home theatre—the bottom line is every individual has different tastes and desires, and we provide the design and expertise to accommodate them.”

Beyond sound Imagine a home that essentially runs itself—from the lights to the electronics to the temperature. Home automation technology is defined as the integration of electrical devices that are often controlled remotely. With intelligent electronics playing an increasingly primary role in our daily lives, they deserve an even smarter role at home. In simple terms, the home automation process gives you the tools to easily use and manage the

complex electronic systems found in today’s modern, sophisticated home, including lighting, alarm systems, music, HD television, computers, irrigation and even the fireplace.

technology—from Netflix and wi-fi streaming to satellite radio—while being wired for tomorrow.”

“Home automation has a very wide spectrum of options, from simple high definition wiring to multi-room set ups, depending on your wants and needs,” says Chuck. “Let your imagination run wild.”

Signature Home Automation has one focus—the customer. Chuck and Bill handle the design and installation, after first educating their clients on trends and traditions. “Trends come and go, but customers are forever,” says Bill. “Every project is a custom job, custom-tailored to each client’s home and needs. No job is too big or too small. We want our clients to receive plenty of years of enjoyment out of their investment.”

The best time to install home automation is during a new home construction, immediately after the electric and mechanical aspects of the build have been completed. Wide open walls enable Signature Home Automation to hide unsightly wiring behind drywall, while also allowing for the custom design and installation of specific power outlets for new or existing equipment. While this can be done in an existing home, drywall may need to be removed or other contractors brought in to ensure the finish is seamless.

Home automation is the glue that binds all or a portion of home systems together, so they can interact and react with one another. Easy to operate and typically completely modular, once Signature Home Automation has completed the project there are no Bill Yano complex operational Chuck Ingerman procedures to learn and no electrical or wiring systems to deal with. Create the perfect movie, surround sound, temperature or lighting ambiance in one touch.

Access and control can be executed in several different ways, including in-wall touch screens or the convenience of a single remote control for the entire house. Whether you choose to invest a little or invest a lot, Chuck describes the benefits succinctly: “It means enjoying today’s

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Customer-centric

The imagination, experience and creativity Signature Home Automation will bring to your home are unsurpassed. Chuck and Bill refer to their listening skills as one of their most valuable tools, because designing a system that’s built around your wants and needs is paramount toward ensuring that the end result is a package that you simply cannot believe you ever lived without.

Life is better when it all works together.

Bill and Chuck go out of their way to provide flexible formulas that allow you to design the home automation system of your dreams on your very real budget.

The number one benefit of teaming up with Signature Home Automation?

According to Chuck, it’s the resale value added to the home. According to the Consumer Electronics Association, a home automation system can increase the value of your home by three to five per cent (depending on your neighborhood and the market). And in the meantime, you get to relax and relish all the other benefits. FHS

Signature Home Automation Chuck Ingerman 306.280.8505 Bill Yano 306.260.9745 info@ signaturehomeautomation.com www.signaturehomeautomation.com

Trusted electrical contractor brings Saskatoon

SMART HOMES FOR THE 21ST CENTURY

BY DANIEL DALMAN

Historically, when people would dream of what life would be like in the 21st Century, images of robots and flying cars were thrown around. As we know, however, life today hasn’t lived up to those expectations. But, while we don’t all have lasers or colonies on Mars, there is a shift in how we lead our modern lives. With square footage in homes reaching awesome levels, and the proliferation of electronic devices that dictate our lives being al-

most countless, we aren’t living as simply as we have in the past. The question has changed from “what’s next?” to “how does one manage it all?” This is where Burco Electrical Contractors steps in.

Professional A diverse company, Burco Electrical Contractors provides electrical services in the residential, commercial and indus-

trial sectors throughout Saskatchewan.

Burco has worked tirelessly to assemble its team of electricians, and offers customers the highest possible standard of service and support. Burco is making a name for itself across the board.

Bryan Burnett, the manager of the company has been in the electrical business for nearly 20 years. From wiring multimillion dollar estates in the Caribbean

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There’s nothing dumb about this doorknob Program smart locks with unique codes for every member of your family so you know who’s coming and going—and when.

to homes in Briarwood, this young entrepreneur is at the forefront of where home technology and electrical wiring is heading. Now, as a part of their business, the professionals at Burco are helping to bring a new type of technology to the forefront of the Saskatoon home building market. Burco believes that the future of the homes we live in will rely heavily on the convenience of the Control 4 home automation system.

Convenient

Leave your worries behind With Control4® security solutions, you can keep your mind on the beach and still have an eye on home.

Did you close it?

With Control4, your house will tell you with a text alert if you didn’t. Better still, you can hop online and close it from anywhere.

Go ahead, make your night Say goodnight with a one-touch locks the doors, and sets the alarm.

“It’s similar to buying an upscale car,” says Burnett, “You would expect all the convenience options in it like GPS, Handsfree Calling, Back Up Camera, DVD Players, things that make your interaction with your car better.

Why wouldn’t you expect the same for a home?” And options on the Control 4 home automation system are plentiful. From the integration of all the components of a home theatre system, to homes wired for sound, and lighting control, to control of temperature and security, the Control 4 system has the capability to streamline how we live our lives. And it’s a welcome convenience.

In today’s new homes, the trek from the master bedroom to shut off the basement lights and TV that the kids left on, or to check if the front door is locked and the garage door is closed at the end of the night are unnecessary tasks. With a home automation system by Burco, living in the lap of luxury is as luxurious as it should be.

Lock the doors with a touch of a button, turn the lights down low, access music from your iPod anywhere in the house. Essentially, what the service provides is a house that can keep up, and exceed your lifestyle expectations.

Not only can Burco change the way you live your life, but the company is there to see it goes as smoothly as possible. By training their employees extensively, and by taking a special interest in the needs of their customer, the Burco team is there to install and support your system.

A distinct advantage Burco Electrical Contractors has is the fact they are electrical contractors, allowing them to provide a complete system front to back.

By providing both the electrical work for your renovation or new build, as well as the automation and audio video, it is a seamless integration. No additional coordination is needed between different contractors, thus eliminating the potential for miscommunication and mistakes. It is all planned and executed in house by one company, saving the customer time and cost.

When spending such a significant amount of money in making a house a home, it seems only natural to

want the house to live up to every expectation. That means a house with the ability to respond immediately to your needs—from anywhere. Smartphone applications to control the heat, lighting, and security of your house while you are on the go are a comfort the system provides. Unlock the front door from your work computer to let arriving guests in or check the amount of snow in the yard from a winter storm on your exterior cameras from your laptop on the beach in Mexico.

Environmentally friendly The technology has a green application as well. With temperature and lighting controls that monitor and time your heating

and light levels, adjustable from anywhere, allows you to live the life you want while minimizing your environmental impact. So, by putting the house to bed with a touch of a button, or slowly awakening to the sound of your favourite music and soft lighting, the Control 4 system is there for you.

vide the assurance, expertise, and product that will bring any home up to speed. FHS BURCO ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS #4, 318-105 Street East.

306.291.2230 info@burcoelectric.com www.burcoelectric.com

Burco can install the most basic application, from a single home theater system up to virtually limitless options, including, motion sensors, timers, and a medley of other advanced features. The Control 4 system grants access to convenience at whatever price point or need.

With Saskatoon homes growing larger in size and style, the Burco team is there to pro-

™

™

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BOUTIQUE IS MUCH MORE THAN JUST A VACUUM STORE Quality cleaning equipment, accessories and cookware backed by top-notch service

BY SUZANNE HUBER. PHOTOS BY BLACK BENCH PRODUCTIONS

S

ervicing and selling the best brands of quality vacuum cleaners, accessories and kitchen cookware is what Speedy Vacuum has been doing for over 25 years. In their small boutique located on 1515 Idylwyld Drive North, they are well known for having the city’s best service for vacuum cleaner sales, repairs and hard to find accessories. There is also a variety of other unique items that people may not know about that make the intimate boutique an ideal place to shop for both gifts and natural home cleaning products. Husband and wife owners Mary and John Toy have attributed their success to delivering the best service possible, bringing in the latest technology

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and providing trustworthy service to their clientele.

aftercare

It may be time to retire your vacuum It is worth educating yourself on today’s high performing motors for vacuuming your home. Brands such as Meile have motors that can operate for as long as 17 years. Today vacuums are not only more powerful in suction, but they also clean a lot better in less time. “Why spend more time cleaning if you do not have to,” remarks Mary. She believes you truly do not know what you are missing out on until you replace your old vacuum

JOHN AND MARY TOY

with a new one. The latest models today are making the whole process easier, cleaner and more efficient than ever while increasing the lifespan of your carpet.

Fight allergies and maintain cleaner air in your home by removing dust particles with the latest fine dust filters.

What your vacuum says about your lifestyle You should be conscious of your lifestyle and living space when evaluating what will help you clean your space most effectively. Going shopping in big box stores can leave you feeling overwhelmed and confused with what options will provide the best benefit for your home.

At Speedy Vacuum, they like to ensure that you are making an informed decision relevant to your lifestyle. Whether you are a young professional living in a condo with hardwood flooring, or a homeowner with children, pets and carpets, these factors will influence the model you choose to clean your home best.

Cleaning does not have be a long chore Mary comments that her customers often come in after they have been frustrated with the effort they put into cleaning and the results they get from their vacuum.

“People want their vacuum to work as hard as they do,” says Mary. Cleaning is not a task that many take pleasure in, so having the right equipment to get it done quickly and effectively is important.

Making the motion mechanically only sucking up large objects only leaves you frustrated and with carpets and flooring that really aren’t that clean. “You don’t need to go over the same spot 10 times to get results, you need the right equipment,” remarks Mary.

Cyclovac Central Vac Fresh air is essential to your well being.

Speedy Vacuum is pleased to offer Saskatoon the innovative Cyclovac that offers a multiple filtration system to

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fight harmful allergies caused by dust, pollen, mold and other microscopic particles. After 45 years of research and development, Cyclovac is able to improve air quality while remaining environmentally conscious with its washable filters and biodegradable bags.

Cyclovac offers a variety of options from a retractable hose system to the newest addition, the Wallyflex auxiliary hose that cleans efficiently with one hand in one second.

Service and accessories Speedy Vacuum is able to access and repair your vacuum or central vacuum system so you have peace of mind knowing you will be taken care of. Just like your car, your vacuum needs regular maintenance to preform effectively. They also provide in home service calls for your central vacuum. All service and warranty work is done right at the shop. No matter what your make or model, Speedy Vacuum has most bags, filters and any other accessory you may be hunting for your vacuum. They also provide a variety of unique durable European cookware brands to the quality conscious consumer.

Bosch Universal Plus, the mixer with unlimited possibilities The Universal Plus Kitchen Machine

made by Bosch is the perfect solution for those who want to use an ultimate multifunctional mixer with unlimited possibilities for their home. After 30 years, this adaptable machine has kept its reputation of quality and endurance with its European roots. The Bosch Universal Plus makes whole wheat breads, rolls, doughs, cookies, cakes, batters, meringues, and frosting. This machine kneads dough, blends and whips to make cakes and cookies. The perfect wedding gift, this unit is purchased as a base model with additional add-on pieces that can be optionally purchased individually over time to further the machine’s capabilities.

The Swiss touch Handcrafted in Switzerland, the Swiss Diamond line now carried at Speedy Vacuum is the greatest advancement in cookware since the introduction of the non-stick pan. Guaranteeing a lifetime of non-stick performance, the diamond crystals used in each pan reinforce the premium non-stick composite. Since diamonds are four times more conductive than copper, ten times that of aluminum, and a hundred times better than titanium, no other non-stick pan can compare to the heat conductivity of Swiss Diamond cookware. Swiss Diamond cookware provides a lifetime warranty against cracking, blistering or peeling making it a worthwhile investment for your kitchen.

Keeping clean without the toxins Speedy Vacuum also carries other household items suited to the environmentally-conscious. “They have come a really long way,” says Mary when referring to the latest in organic cleaning agents the store carries. If you have children or pets you need to be cautious and aware of their hands and feet coming in contact with chemicals from other cleaning products out there. Speedy also carries natural stain removers that take out coffee, tea, wine and pet stains. They also carry a water-based, non-toxic cleaner for hard surface floors by Bona, a reputable company that has been reinventing their product for years to refresh dull floors and restore their natural beauty.

Great vacuums last a long time and are a worthwhile investment. If you average the lifespan of a high quality performing vacuum, you will save money over the long run while keeping the air in your home cleaner and healthier. Fight allergies by removing dust and pet hair and make sure that your loved one’s sensitivities are being taken care of. Whether you want an assessment on your current vacuum or want to replace it with a newer model, stop by the Speedy Vacuum showroom to see the different options available to help keep your home cleaner, safer and healthier. FHS

Speedy Vacuum Mary and John Toy 1515 Idylwyld Drive North 306.244.2336 speedyv@sasktel.net

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FINGERS ON THE

PULS

What can provide comfort, security, peace of mind, and green your home all at the same time? Why, automation, of course.

BY FHS STAFF

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I

t may seem somewhat reminiscent of the Jetsons—talking about living your life at the touch of a button—but today it is not only possible, but can be seamless at the hands of an installation expert like David Puls, CEO and Chief Creative Officer of Pulsworks Audio Arts. In fact, David says, “If it isn’t seamless, it fails.”

“Enjoy a Worry Free Vacation with Home Automation”

No limits “Automation’s biggest limitation is our own imagination,” David insists. “The possibilities are endless. If you can think it, you can probably do it. You might be amazed at what you can do and how automation can change your life.”

Imagine a dedicated remote or touchscreen with a series of scenes that respond at the touch of a button. If, for example, you want to watch a movie, one button will close your automated blinds, turn on your audio-visual equipment, and prepare your space. All you have to do is pop in the desired movie. Your lights will then dim, and your movie will begin to play as you settle into your comfy chair. With a system designed by Pulsworks, all your controls are in one place and custom-designed for your needs.

Another scene: You are coming home from work (or a party) after dark. You call from your smart phone and press the “Coming Home” button. Your path lights and designated inside lights come on; the temperature in your home is turned up; and your music system kicks in. It’s totally fluid and flexible. You are not just coming home; you are welcomed home.

Security Bedtime: Again, at the touch of a single button, the temperature goes down, lights throughout the house are turned off, security is set. A good night’s sleep ensues.

Speaking of security, you can rest easy when you are on vacation. With an automated security camera installation and a smart phone, you can check on every corner of your home. You will be alerted when someone is there. If it is the

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person feeding your pet or watering your plants, you can see what they are doing.

You can even add face recognition and can alert the police immediately if someone unauthorized is on your property. You can randomize your lights, giving the illusion that someone is home. If something such as lower than normal temperature in the winter or sewer backup happens, you will be notified and can deal with it. Even insurance companies recognize the security of automation.

Environmentally friendly Fantastic, you say, but is the technology green? David gives a big thumbs-up to the green advantages of automation.

Daylight transitions to night: Don’t do anything. Pulsworks can automate your lights to ramp up as needed. Automation monitors the required lumen value. Close to the windows, your lights will remain lower, while farther away, your lights will turn up to keep the light in the room balanced. You save electricity, your bulbs last longer and you lower your power bills in a green way.

Rooted in great sound

Ethics and service

Pulsworks Audio Arts is rooted in David’s deep interest in music and technology.

In 2005, he created this Saskatoon company to provide the ultimate experience for audiophiles, music and movie lovers and musicians(automated systems were added later). His company operates the largest recording studios in the province.

David’s ethical stand is to be upfront and honest. He believes in treating people as people, and to walk his cuscus tomers through the technological propro cess. They need to be able to trust that he is there for them, so that they can enjoy their system for many years.

So, for those interested in a home thethe atre, David oversees all installs himself.

He prepares each client a system portfoportfo lio containing receipts, information, warwar ranties, and keeps a duplicate copy for his own records and as a backup for you.

Should any system from Pulsworks Audio Arts need servicing, they call him directly.

At Pulsworks, David has a system to suit every budget and lifestyle. But he is not about pushing a box out the door or making a sale by cobbling together components. For David, designing a system means looking beyond the specs and ensuring that the music and video experience is amazing. “Even the cables can make an incredible difference,” he says.

That is why he works to build long-term relationships with his customers—to truly understand their needs, to be available for them from the planning stages through installation and calibration, to personalize their service. He tests how the system performs, and is available to trouble-shoot if there are problems—often for free.

Audiophiles will be in seventh heaven with the systems that David has available. The quality of sound, the versatility, whether in digital or analogue, is top-of-the-line. He carries products such as McIntosh Labs, Bryston, Cambridge Audio, Pathos, PMC, DALI, Martin Logan and sets them up to provide the optimum experience. “It’s not about the size of the speakers, but the quality—bigger is not necessarily better; better is better!”

Most customers wouldn’t think of going anywhere else after buying from David, because they know that with Pulsworks Audio Arts, they are assured of value, service and a system that still gives them pleasure for years to come. FLS Pulsworks Audio Arts 2009 Alberta Avenue David Puls, Chief Executive Officer, Chief Creative Officer 306.244.7857 info@pulsworks.com www.pulsworks.com

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So automated, the only thing left will be to pour the wine...

BY TAMMY CEASER

Relax... Automatically The Arctic Spa hot tub..... such a wonderful way to relax after a stressful day, entertain company, or soothe aching muscles. When you purchase an Arctic Spa, you’re not just purchasing a spa, you’re purchasing an experience. The

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next generation of hot tubs have arrived, and they feature impressive automation inspired by a rainbow of today’s technology: cars that have back-up cameras and delightful GPS systems, motion sensors that guard our homes and turn on lights automatically, and our blissful Wi Fi that allows us to be online almost anywhere without a cord in sight.

Now, you can control your spa from your phone. It’s as easy as downloading the app, and you can warm up your Arctic Spa while you’re still at the office. If you want to entertain (or spook) family members, you can also adjust the lighting and temperature out of sight ... even pipe in a little AC/DC through your Blue tooth.

Beam me up, Chuck While it seems more likely it was built around the Starship Enterprise, all Arctic

Spas are manufactured in Canada, with quality second to none. Walker sums it up like this; “We would rather take the time to show you the importance of quality today, rather than the lack of it tomorrow.” With commitment to high-caliber customer service like this, it goes to prove there is only one hot tub place that should be on speed dial: Arctic Spas Saskatoon. FHS

Arctic Spas Saskatoon Owner, Chuck Walker 2-2345 Millar Avenue 306.668.1801 1.800.268.7727 www.arcticspassaskatoon.com www.summersetoutdoorliving.com

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GIVE YOUR REDESIGN PLENTY OF LEAD TIME

BY MEREDITH HERON

I

t’s July. I’m writing my Fall 2011 column and tomorrow it’s going to be 47 degrees aka ridiculously hot. Sadly, if you are reading this in November, you’ve already missed the boat. I’m not referring to the frizz-inducing weather, I mean Christmas. Christmas you say in dismay? It’s a month away. Of course, picking up the phone or sending me an email asking me to help get your house ready for Christmas in November will have me laughing with a “Christmas 2012, right?

Any major interior alteration or renovation needs a minimum of three months planning prior to the work commencing. The more time you can give to the planning, the better, faster and more cost effective the result will be. Kitchens take at least three months to plan, eight to 12 weeks to fabricate and three to six weeks to install. Dream of cooking a fabulous holiday dinner in a new kitchen— call me in February!

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I’m constantly surprised by people who call our office looking to start their renovation immediately. They’ve made the decision and expect things to get underway ASAP. Lining up the trades alone can be a six month head start, let alone your designer. Here are a few tips to help you make sure you are ready for your renovation to start.

1. Have a budget range. We are happy to establish a range for project estimates once we’ve been retained, but having an idea of what you would like to spend and can afford to spend is necessary. It’s also important to be up front at this phase. A lot of people think that if they say they have $50,000 to spend that it will be spent so they say they only have $30,000 as a contingency.

2. Write out your goals and needs for the renovation in addition to your wants.

3. If you are undertaking a major renovation, start planning your alternative living arrangements. Moving out is a sanity saver and will improve finish times. Make sure this gets factored into any budget.

4. Retain your designer before your retain contractor and architect trades. The designer is charged with helping you es-

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tablish more than just the look and feel of your space. Your designer will factor in lifestyle and practicalities into the space and is concerned with more than just a building envelope.

5. Start clipping images for inspiration.

Half my job as your designer is to understand the semantics of design styles as they pertain to you. What one person calls grey for example, could be another person’s green, or blue or lavender. We need to get on the same page and having pictures of what you love and hate at the

outset is a great way to start speaking the same language and avoid costly miscommunication.

6. Remember this: No one ever says at the end of a renovation, “wow, that cost less than I expected,” or “that renovation happened much faster than I expected.”

7. Enjoy the process. It can and will be fun—a sense of humour is an invaluable tool. FHS

FLOORING COMPANY IS THE

CORNERSTONE OF EXCELLENCE IN SASKATOON

BY TAMMY CEASER. PHOTOS BY LISA LANDRIE

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H

istory

Outstanding customer service continues to be the focus of locally owned and operated Cornerstone Flooring and Interiors. Opening its doors to Saskatoonians nine years ago, they began as a retail and installation tile store of ceramic, porcelain, natural stone, marble and granite. Expanding quickly to better serve their clients, they now include all types of flooring, window coverings, and more.

Cornerstone has every individual’s specific needs covered. The company provides a wide selection of porcelain and ceramic tile, carpets, hardwood, laminate, vinyl flooring, cork flooring, granite counter tops and natural stone tile products, as well as blinds and area rugs. Experience it all in their bright and beautiful 4,000 square foot showroom.

The staff is always there to help, and are up on all current trends. They can help you with the latest in carpets and hardwoods, as well as provide insight on natural stone and glass for back splashes.

Friendly and knowledgeable, all the staff members at Cornerstone consider their customers personal tastes and lifestyle when choosing products. This can include special considerations like small

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children or teenagers, a menagerie of pets, or, perhaps, a couple who does a lot of entertaining and needs some input to capitalize on their space. An interior designer is in house to take customers to the next level of decorating as well.

With this kind of commitment to quality customer service, anyone walking through the doors at Cornerstone can thoroughly rely on their expertise and experience. And these customers include homeowners renovating, commercial contractors and homebuilders.

Cornerstone believes the success of the store is based on the team working closely with all customers through their decorating and remodeling adventures, and it results in long-standing relationships.

Covering your bases Floor covering is the most important aspect of your home, and installation is as critical as the quality of products. You can buy the most expensive product, but proper installation is key to creating the desired look. Tile can provide a variety of appearances, ranging from deluxe and refined, to casual and laid back.

Durable and timeless, ceramic can fit into the dĂŠcor of any home, and this is accomplished without the cost that

comes with using natural stone. Installation of tile is of utmost importance, as this can affect the finished product’s appearance and function. Cornerstone’s highly skilled journeyman tile setters will take the headache out of installation, inside the home or workplace.

For those searching out a custom shower or back splash installation, Cornerstone can help out there too. Choose from a vast variety of tiles from manufacturers like Dal-Tile, Ames, C & S, Olympia, American Olean, Euro, Savoia, and more.

Mohawk Carpet For those who love their carpet and are searching for something that will completely impress you, Cornerstone presents Smart Strand. Tagged as “it isn’t just smart, it’s just better,” and with a tonne of reasons to back that up, clients tend to agree. Smart Strand provides great product selection for the client that requires plenty of options, as well as fantastic quality and superior durability for even the most refined of buyers. Featuring lifetime stain protection and wonderful softness for little and big kids alike, it is guaranteed to be enjoyed on a daily basis.

Smart Strand is made with natural fibres, so people with allergies can appreciate they will have less reactions to it. And with all the easy clean up features, it’s a breeze to keep any dust and dander at bay. Consumers can enjoy better warranties with Mohawk’s Smart Strand, including lifetime anti-static (methinks these people have lived through a Canadian winter), 15-year soil resistance, 12-year stain resistance, 12-year fade resistance, 20-year manufacturing defect, 12-year abrasive wear, 12-year texture retention, and lifetime stain resistance. Another bonus with this product: Smart Strand warranties usually surpass typical nylon products.

The final installment Ah, the joy of coming home the first day after you have your new flooring installed

by Cornerstone Flooring and Interiors; the way the light from the window reflects on the cherry hardwood, how the new carpet accents the couch perfectly in the family room... and that back splash in the kitchen is simply divine—it almost makes you excited about the decision of what to make for supper that night!

Cornerstone Flooring understands that remodeling can be a chore, and they want to make it a fun and easy process for customers. All of Cornerstone’s customers can feel comfortable knowing that the installers have years of experience, and will respect their home as if it was their own. This is why Cornerstone Flooring is becoming one of Saskatoon’s most trusted name in the industry for the most elite of purchases.

Visit them during their show room hours Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Saturday 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Discover the quality of Cornerstone’s work and completed projects with a couple clicks on their website at www.cornerstoneflooring.ca. FHS

Cornerstone Flooring and Interiors #7 – 844 51st Street East 306.955.4441 www.cornerstoneflooring.ca

What consumers are saying about Smart Strand: “I love the way it feels and cleans up.”“It doesn’t pack down. I have had it for a year and it still looks wonderful.” “It’s easy to clean. I have kids and there are a lot of spills.” “It’s durable and easy to maintain.”

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ASK

CHANTELLE YOUR ENTRYWAY IS YOUR HOME'S FIRST IMPRESSION Dear Chanelle, I have a beautiful front door and great sized entryway. I would like this area to be an accommodating welcome for our friends and family when they come over.

It is boring, but functional, and does not have personality or colour! I want it to be inviting, warm, (fun?), but not something we will be sick of in a year. I just have not spent the time on making this area look great. I would love a rug that has some colour and can be cleaned easily. People will actually step on it with shoes. Somewhere for guests to sit to put on/take off shoes and/or to set their belongings on would also be good. I have a rug that I bought just because it was about the right

size and a bench there that suits the purpose. I don’t love or hate either of them. I have gotten several compliments on the vase behind the door. I don’t mind some constructive criticism—it’s nice to know from an experienced eye what does or does not work and why. Don’t we all want our homes to look like the magazines? If only we all had the time, and money, and somewhere to hide all of our ugly stuff!

Photo by Heather

Fritz

Thanks again Chantelle, this sounds fun and is probably the kick in the butt I need to get something done.

Regards, Candace

Mirror by Ren-Wil

Light by Kitchler

Hi Candace, Thanks for asking about your home’s foyer! I can’t express the importance of your home’s entrance. Everyone who we invite in sees it. The public people—aka hockey moms who are dropping off our children—coworkers who we invite over for a cup a tea or a glass of wine, and our favourite people, the best of the best.

People who know where everything is and who we don’t mind if they open cabinets and doors until they find what they need.

I believe your space could use the bench you have, with a mirror above, a vase to the left of it to add personality and fill in

that corner, a coat rack in the other cor-ner—for two reasons: to balance the room and function when guests come in—a beautiful light, a larger mat, and a shelf for decorative baubles. This is where we add the colour. If we have good neutral bones, we can change your space with inexpensive accents for a different feel.

Last but not least, a second shelf for utilitarian items, a metal bowl for keys, a candle in case the power is out and a small vase with wooden matches, if you don’t have little people around. FHS

Though remarkably similar in appearance they vary widely in price, stability and functionality...

Before

After

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PHOTO 3

PHOTO 2 PHOTO 4

REPROGRAPHICS PHOTO 1

BY SHERRY MORRIS. PHOTOS BY BLACK BENCH PRODUCTIONS

Many of us have photos that we want to something with, but aren’t sure how to go about it, we can help you!

Just bring those special photos to us.

Personalize your home and turn your holiday photos into amazing pieces of art. Use a photo that YOU have taken, whether it’s in your own backyard, at the lake or another exotic locale in the world. Wherever your travels have taken you, J and S Picture Frame Warehouse can help create a memory you can display on your wall for years to come.

Our reprographics department can take your photos and do colour correction, change lighting, contrast and clean up flaws. After that part of the creative process is complete, the photo can be enlarged and printed onto canvas, watercolor paper, or heavy weight smooth paper.

Framing experts can then assist you in choosing the perfect frame and matting for

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your image to make the finished product a cherished piece of art, and a proud addition for your home. We have helpful and knowledgeable staff to bring your project from beginning to completion. Come visit us with your special memories today!

Photo #1 A poster made from eight snapshots of a fishing trip; a young boys first fishing experience! What a memory for him.

Photo #2 A 4 x 6 snapshot, scanned and reproduced on a 20 x 30 canvas.

A little PhotoShop work done to it to enhance the look, including adding another flower for balance. Waterbrushed edge completes the effect.

Photo #3 A 4 x 6 coloured snapshot scanned to change it to black and white. We cropped and feathered the edges to make it look

like a drawing, as well as, removed a gold watch from the model’s wrist, to make it timeless. It has been printed on watercolor paper, and framed to suit.

Photo #4 This old church window was taken with a digital camera in Ireland. The first picture was printed on a 22 x 30 canvas; second picture printed on a back-light vinyl material. We improved it with contrast effects, added highlights and then, to add drama, added the stained glass. It really lights up a corner! FHS

J & S Picture Frame Warehouse Owner, Sherry Morris 121 Jessop Avenue 306-373-1171 jandspicture@shaw.ca www.jandspicture.com

SRHBA 2010 BRIDGES AWARD WINNERS BEST APARTMENT STYLE DEVELOPMENT (North Ridge Development)

CUSTOMER CHOICE AWARDS (Large Single Family Builder) (Warman Homes)

RENOVATION OF THE YEAR – WHOLE HOUSE (Studio 2.0 and J.A.B.A.Construction)

BEST BROCHURE (Centennial)

CUSTOMER CHOICE AWARDS (Multi-Family Builder) (R & D Fraser)

ROOFTOPPER AWARD (Doug Schmidt, CADvantage)

BEST CUSTOM HOME – 1500 to 2200 sq ft (Touchstone Development) BEST CUSTOM HOME – over 2200 sq ft (Boychuk Homes) BEST CUSTOM HOME – up to 1500 sq ft (Boychuk Homes) BEST PRINT AD - (Homes by Dundee) BEST PRODUCTION HOME – 1500 to 2200 sq ft (Boychuk Homes)

HOME BUILDERS’ LOGO RECOGNITION (North Prairie Developments)

BEST PROJECT SIGNAGE OR LOGO (Homes by Dundee)

INNOVATION OF THE YEAR (River Ridge Homes, Affordable New Home Development Foundation and Ehrenberg Homes in partnership)

BEST TV COMMERCIAL (Centennial) BEST WEBSITE (Homes by Dundee) COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AWARD (North Ridge Development) CONSUMER AWARD (River Ridge Homes, Affordable New Home Development Foundation and Ehrenberg Homes in partnership) CUSTOMER CHOICE (Small/Medium Single Family Builder) (Authentic Homes)

SALESPERSON OF THE YEAR (Leanne Glover, North Ridge Development)

GREEN AWARD (Ehrenberg Homes)

BEST PRODUCTION HOME – up to 1500 sq ft (Ehrenberg Homes)

BEST TOWNHOUSE DEVELOPMENT (River Ridge Homes and Ehrenburg Homes in partnership)

SALES ACHIEVEMENT (Bonnie Crozon, Ehrenburg Homes – Gold)

ENVIRONMENTAL LEADERSHIP IN HOUSING (Streetscape Developments) HOME IMPROVEMENT (J.A.B.A. Construction)

BEST SHOWROOM (Nu-Fab Building Products)

WOMEN BUILDING BRIDGES (Colleen Mah, North Ridge Development)

EDUCATION AND LEADERSHIP (Pearl McNevin-Williams, North Ridge Development)

BEST PRODUCTION HOME – over 2200 sq ft (Homes by Dundee)

BEST RADIO AD (Ehrenberg Homes)

SAFETY CERTIFICATION AWARDS (Inland Lehigh; Creative Door Services)

CUSTOMER SERVICE AWARD (Adrienne Zvacek, Studio 2.0)

MAPLE LEAF AWARD (Rick Smith, Henderson Insurance) MEMBER OF THE YEAR (All Weather Windows) NEW MEMBER OF THE YEAR (Innovative Residential) PROFESSIONAL SERVICE (Studio 2.0) QUALITY ASSURANCE – SUBTRADE (Superior Cabinets) RENOVATION OF THE YEAR – ADDITION (North Ridge Renovations)

COMMUNITY BUILDER AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN SALES

• Joanne and Jody Cross, Ehrenburg Homes

• Bonnie Crozon, Ehrenburg Homes

• Stan Kinal, Homes by Dundee

• John Hanson, Homes by Dundee

• Michael Loewen, Homes by Dundee

• Don Robertson, Homes by Dundee

• David Leatherdale, North Ridge Development

• Leanne Glover, North Ridge Development

• Carroll Udy, North Ridge Development

• Trisha London, North Ridge Development

RENOVATION OF THE YEAR – ANY ROOM (Studio 2.0)

• Bonnie Durrant, North Ridge Development

RENOVATION OF THE YEAR – BATHROOM (Studio 2.0 and Impact Construction)

• Terri Leatherdale, North Ridge Development

• Tracy Scarlett, North Ridge Development

RENOVATION OF THE YEAR – KITCHEN (North Ridge Renovations)

• Gerry Bezaire, Boychuk Construction

ENJOY HEAT N GLO FIREPLACES AT HOME OR AT THE CABIN 824 FLEURY STREET • REGINA • 306.781.8007 l 2206 SPEERS AVENUE • SASKATOON • 306. 244.2774 w w w. n o r t h e r n f i r e p l a c e . c o m

IT MIGHT TAKE A COUPLE OF WISEGUYS TO HELP YOU GET A PROPER NIGHT’S REST

BY TAMMY CEASER PHOTOS BY BLACK BENCH PRODUCTIONS

R

ecognizing the need for a good night’s sleep, Wiseguys Mattresses owner and founder Mark Stevens opened up the specialty bedding shop in Saskatoon five years ago. Mark and staff member Steve strive to educate the public, to get the most bang for their buck, and to appreciate great customer service when they see it. Regardless if you’re a student or a white collar professional, they can fit your needs. From day beds for small apartment living to high quality kings with higher-than-thou thread count sheets, they have a variety of styles and brands that Saskatoon consumers can appreciate.

Wiseguys also carries a lot of merchandise that other retailers don’t offer, possibly in part because Mark recognizes each customer’s needs, and, in turn, every customer is unique, with different requirements and concerns.

A belief out there is that anyone with a bad back should use a firm mattress. While this isn’t true, there are some people that may need a firmer mattress, but firmness is only one thing to consider, and receiving an education from Mark and Steve will help you understand all of the important things to consider when purchasing a mattress.

Taking factors into consideration like joint pain, chiropractic care, motion transfer, or chronic back pain, can all determine what will provide you with an optimal rest. It’s Mark’s knowledge of specialty brands they carry, or even something like particular coil performance that keep them ahead of the game.

Owner, Mark

Stevens

The mattresses Wiseguys features for RV’s are even more affordable than a home mattress

Money in your mattress If you are finding that your bed is no longer comfortable, dollars to donuts, it’s time for a new mattress. Factors to be considered are how long the bed has already been used, as well as the initial quality of the product. When a customer walks in to Wiseguys, they can rely on high-end service, and learning about what will work for them specifically, unlike chain and department stores where they may just take your money and give you a number to call for questions.

Wiseguys also offers the best options without the retail mark up, as their inventory is picked carefully from different factories. With no hidden charges or disguised delivery fees, people travel from across the province to get a great deal with fantastic service. They really can “make you an offer you can’t refuse.”

(Safely) Asleep at the wheel Families jump in the RV and go camping for weeks at a time. They spend the day swimming and boating in the sunshine, roasting hotdogs and listening to the Rider game on the radio. But after the last s’more is enjoyed for the night, how many

of us really look forward to crawling into bed on that cheap mattress? Wiseguys Mattresses wants to complete your camping experience by a good night’s rest. Most RVs, no matter how many thousands of dollars are spent, have low quality mattresses. They don’t support your body right, leading to you waking up throughout the night, tossing and turning, then waking up feeling tired and achy.

The mattresses Wiseguys features for RV’s are even more affordable than a home mattress, because they are slightly different dimensions than a regular queen size mattress. While some stores would overcharge for this specialty item, Wiseguys keeps the bottom line as relaxed as a day at the beach. It’s the same scenario for those who have cabins to escape to old, hand-me-down, mismatched mattress sets that are lumpy, musty, and just plain uncomfortable. Enjoy your cabin to its fullest, wake up refreshed and ready for a day of great fishing, thanks to Wiseguys!

delivering anywhere from six in the morning to 11 at night. Mark believes that customers should not have to ask for customer service that should be offered automatically. Examples of just some of these services are is his free delivery and free take away of your old set (see store for details).

Past customers are so happy with Wiseguys’ service that they stop by for coffee and a visit, and refer friends and family often. You know it’s a true friend that sends you to Wiseguys because they trust Mark and Steve to take good care of you. A true testament to this are the thank you cards on the wall in Mark’s office, customers stating how pleased they are about the quality of their experience.

Mark wants to ensure that you have a great experience, and, when you get a bed from Wiseguys, your first night on it will be a blissful, dream-filled escape.

Going old school Mark isn’t just owner, he can also be found driving the delivery van, working on the sales floor, and handling customers’ needs. Taking his business “old school,” he works around his customers schedules,

6 – 405 Circle Drive East 306.652.1212 mstevens67@msn.com “Like” us on Facebook today!

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LEADING THE BLINDS and the shades, curtains, shutters and more

BY TAMMY CEASER We’ve come a long way from the von Trapp family’s drapes that doubled as dresses. While the fashion of current window treatments is high and you’ll want to show them off, these are blinds that you will love so much on your windows, you won’t feel the need to wear them at all! It doesn’t matter what corner of the world you’re in, custom window coverings are within your reach with Budget Blinds.

Signature Series TM Wood blinds, shutters, and drapes, Bud-

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get Blinds has it all and more, with technology taking the forefront. Signature SeriesTM is a combination of opaque and semi-opaque fabrics that can reveal or conceal depending on your mood. When the opaque vanes are overlapped, light is filtered into the room through the exposed sheer sections. When you want privacy, simply adjust the opaque vanes to cover the sheers. Exclusive to Budget Blinds, the Signature SeriesTM provides the customer a way to see things in a whole new light. The innovative product line offers privacy of a window shade,

with the softened view of a sheer. As an added bonus, customers can let the sun light in without harmful UV rays wreaking havoc on furnishings or artwork.

Style on a roll Roller shades can provide a variety of looks as well, with functionality and durability for the customer. They can be used on their own, or layered with drapery panels, adding a hint of fashion while protecting artwork and furniture in the area. They also provide

protection of the pocketbook, as roller shades’ insulation properties help keep energy costs low.

Blinds with a mind Budget Blinds presents Somfy motorization, a programmable feature that allows you to let in sunlight at the touch of a button. You can also adjust shades to prevent glare, angle blinds to follow the sun, or simply close them for total privacy. You can also preset them while you’re away.

It’s one less thing for the house sitter to worry about— maybe they’ll remember to water the plants this time!

Made in the shade New advances in materials and fabrics make outdoor living more beautiful and easier than you could imagine! Outdoor solar shades soften the sun’s glare and help keep things cooler with sun-blocking properties.

Offering superior solar protection, they are available in a variety of colours, opacities, and patterns.

Outdoor curtains dress up an outdoor space immensely. Adding a designer touch to the exterior of your home, Budget Blinds outdoor drapery panels are UV-protected to stand up to the sun’s rays and are ready for you to pick you favourites with a plethora of fabrics, styles, and colours.

Genius Retractable Screens fit almost any opening and disappear in natural recesses of the frame. Smoothsliding and unlike anything else on the market, this really is genius! Virtually invisible when you don’t need them, Genius Screens provide quiet, smooth operation, and provide total protection against mosquitoes and other flying pests. With many innovative fabrics to choose from, it’s an easy way to protect your home and reduce all of your energy costs. Get the best of everything with Genius Retractable Screens: functional protection, fresh air, and a great look.

Customers also have options with Easy Snap Windows, which are exterior window shades that block out the sun. Installation is easy, because your Budget Blinds consultant will help, and you will be pleased with the professional-looking results while reducing your air conditioning bill to boot!

Budget Blinds also features bulletproof rolling shutters.

Not only is this a peace-of-mind item for safety reasons, it may possibly get you a break on your home insurance! Rolling shutters can also be programmable and automated.

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Kitchen uncover Kitchen remodeling can take its toll on a person, but make sure you don’t forget about window coverings. Different coverings can convey different feelings for the hearth of the home, so it’s important to get it right. Cellular shades filter light and are great for privacy as well as insulation.

Roller shades can be highly decorative while keeping the area neat and tidy. Shutters provide a timeless look for contemporary or traditional spaces, and Budget Blinds real wood shutters are available in stained and painted finishes that can be colour-matched to your existing trim. Take your pick, then plan your next party to show them off to your friends and family.

Blind ambition Let a Budget Blinds consultant help you create the perfect room for your budget and style. Change your room, your way!

Customer satisfaction is top priority at Budget Blinds, and the consultants pride themselves on offering high-quality window treatments to all their clientele. Just call and they will take care of you! FHS Budget Blinds 102 – 2834 Millar Avenue www.budgetblinds.com 306-242-5706

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EXPERTAdvice

WINDOW COVERINGS

Where do I start… it’s so easy Choosing the perfect window fashions should be a pleasure, not a confusing chore. To help you make the right decision, start by reviewing these important considerations.

1. Light Source Where the light is coming from is important. First make sure you know which direction your window faces.

Custom Drapery Shoppe Tim and Dianne Fayant 223 2nd Ave S, Saskatoon SK, 306-242-1712 cdsltd@sasktel.net

• North light tends to be cold and clear, suggesting energy-efficient window treatments.

• Light from the south is warm and strong year round, so you might choose light-diffusing window cover ings to protect your furniture.

• If your window faces east, bright, warm morning light calls for window coverings that block UV rays.

• And, if light comes from the west, hot, bright afternoons demand solutions that are both light controlling and light diffusing

2. Privacy Do you need full privacy from next door neighbors or just a little screening from, say, the garage or a central air conditioning unit? With the power of Hunter Douglas you can have just the degree of privacy you need.

4. Colour Hunter Douglas is constantly expanding the rainbow. Whatever colour or shade, tint or texture you want, you’ll find it among the endless choices available.

5. Window Shapes Does anyone have ordinary windows anymore? Not to worry, from arches to angles, from circular windows to Palladians, Hunter Douglas has the window covering that will complement any window.

6. Always within reach No matter where your windows are located, Hunter Douglas gives you the power to reach them easily and safely. Especially with their innovative remote control operating system.

7. Energy Efficiency Fuel bills soaring? Another powerful attraction of Hunter Douglas window fashions: they are impressively energy efficient. So you can save on your fuel bills while doing your part for the environment.

8. UV protection Built in ultraviolet protection in every Hunter Douglas window fashions gives you the power to block the harmful rays that fade carpets, discolour upholstery and degrade your finest possessions.

3. Style

9. Safety

Do you prefer a traditional or contemporary look? Relaxed or formal? Country warmth or urban sophistication?

Kids or pets, and loose cords can spell trouble; be sure to choose the best window covering that is designed to make your home as safe as it is beautiful. FHS

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Q&A WITH CHEF MICHAEL SMITH Recently named Canada’s Number 1 celebrity chef by divine.ca – Canada’s Online Women’s Magazine and a perennial favourite of Food Network Canada viewers, CHEF MICHAEL SMITH recently shared his ideas on dream kitchens with Fine Homes Saskatoon editor THOM BARKER.

What is the ideal layout for a home kitchen?

I’m not sure there is an ideal layout. I know it’s the sort of thing that designers love to get into great depth and detail on, but every home is unique, every kitchen is unique and everybody’s food lifestyle is different, so, ideally, if it works for you, it’s ideal.

I’m not really a kitchen designer, so I don’t have any two words of wisdom there other than to say an open kitchen that works for you and your family seems ideal to me. I think lots of space, lots of counter space, the gear that you think you need, some kind of island and some way of bringing the party into the kitchen, being able to dine in the kitchen, are all the kinds of things we seem to look for these days.

What are the elements you incorporated into your own kitchen?

First and foremost, I’ve got a giant butcher block island with my cooktop in the centre of the kitchen and that tends to centre the cooking action right in the middle of the kitchen. The island works very well for traffic flow and multiple work stations.

Beyond that, just randomly, in no particular order, I prefer wall ovens to range ovens; I just find them more functional. I’ve got a bank of refrigerators including a wine fridge. I strongly love my magnetic chalk board. It’s really useful for taking notes and just being sort of an information centre for the family. There’s a huge metal panel on the wall that we painted with chalk board paint and framed it out with wood.

I’ve got this incredible custom-designed stainless steel sink that’s got lots of professional design touches that make it extremely functional for me. I use standard-issue restaurant grade containers that are inset into a bank of drawers that holds all kinds of flours and sugars and corn meal and things that I use regularly.

I like a pantry. I’ve got this corner pantry unit with big open shelves so I can see

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all the ingredients I cook with. I’ve also got a spice library which is super cool.

It’s basically a built-in shelving system that holds a whole bunch of mason jars with all my spices in them. I’ve got a super cool knife rack with about a hundred knives in it that stretches across one window expanse of the kitchen.

Who designed your kitchen?

This kitchen was built by GCW in London, Ontario. They’re a custom cabinetry builder and they do custom work all over Canada. I’m very very proud of our relationship with these guys. They just did one hell of a job here, they’re just a joy to deal with and one of the neatest companies I’ve ever come across, really, in any enterprise.

I notice you use a gas range. For the average home cook, what do you recommend, gas or electric?

I recommend patience. I don’t particularly favour one over the other; they’re both highly credible sources of heat. And really, the only reason people seem to pre-

fer gas is because it’s instant on, instant off, but there’s nothing you can’t do with electric and electric is often much more precise. And if we’re going to talk about energy efficiency, then there’s nothing better than induction cooking and I’ve got some of that in my kitchen as well.

In your opinion, what is the ideal material for countertops?

In my world, I prefer butcher block. It’s functional, it’s beautiful—it just works.

Is there one element of your kitchen that you absolutely could not do without?

I would say my butcher block island with all the bar seating at it. It is quite literally the centre of this house. The functionality of this island just makes it the heart of the home.

Who is your favourite chef?

My mom.

What is it about her that makes her your favourite?

She cooks from scratch every single day.

Does she have any specialty dishes?

Not really, she’s sort of good at everything. I think her specialty is that her approach to life includes cooking from scratch every single day.

Your TV shows [Food Network] are kind of the traditional instructional type, but cooking shows have taken on a different tack recently with competition shows, such as Hell’s Kitchen.

What do you think of those shows?

The bottom line is that reality-driven food programming has expanded Food Network’s audience dramatically, so I’m all for it. More and more people are engaging with food, enjoying food programming and I think that’s positive all around. I’m also proud to be one of the last remaining hosts on the network that does good oldfashioned instructional cooking shows.

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PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND POTATO BACON CHEDDAR TART

This special occasion treat features a classic trio of flavours: potatoes, bacon and cheddar. It’s my favourite way to show off the earthy potatoes that PEI is so famous is for. It’s not hard to make but it does take some time to assemble and will need several hours in the oven. The spectacular results are more than worth the wait!

Serves eight Two pounds or so of room temperature bacon One minced onion Four minced garlic cloves One tablespoon of minced fresh thyme Four cups of grated medium-aged cheddar Five or six large unpeeled baking potatoes Salt and pepper to taste Parchment paper Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Line the bottom of a ten-inch, non-stick sauté pan with a small round of parchment paper. Carefully arrange the bacon in a radial pattern from the centre of the bottom of the pan to the lower edge of the rim and continuing up and over it. Let the ends hang over. The slices should overlap slightly around the sides of the pan. To reduce the thickness of the bacon in the centre, stagger every other piece starting it two inches from the center and extending it further than the adjacent slices. With the palm of your hand, flatten the center area, leaving no gaps in the bacon. Season the bacon with pepper then sprinkle on several tablespoons of the grated cheddar.

Slice the potatoes as thinly and uniformly as you can, about a quarter inch thick. Arrange a circular pattern of overlapping slices around the inside bottom edge of the pan. Continue arranging overlapping layers of the potatoes until the bottom is evenly covered. Season the potatoes with salt and pepper. Mix together the onions and garlic and sprinkle some of the mixture onto the potatoes. Continue with a layer of the grated cheese. Cover with an-

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other layer of the potato pressing it down firmly before continuing with alternate layers of the potatoes, onion mixture and cheese until the pan is full. Continue with several more layers in-setting each a bit from the edge of the pan until the top is an inch or so higher than the pan’s rim. Fold the overhanging bacon neatly up and over the top of the potatoes. Trim a small piece of parchment paper and place it in between an ovenproof lid and the bacon. The lid’s weight will prevent the bacon’s ends from pulling back and shrinking during cooking.

Place the tart pan on a baking sheet and bake for at least two and a half to three hours. You’ll know it’s done when a small thin bladed knife inserts easily. Pour off as much of the fat around the edges as possible. Let the tart stand for fifteen minutes then carefully cover with a plate and flip over. Slide onto a cutting surface. Slice into wedges and serve immediately. You may refrigerate any leftovers and reheat them later it in a microwave.

Feel free to try Try mixing a few tablespoons of your favourite herb into the onion mixture. Thyme, rosemary and tarragon all work well.

Hints Medium-aged cheddar works best because it won’t ‘break’ like an older cheese and release lots of oil. It also has more flavour than a younger cheddar. Kitchen specialty stores carry a French slicing tool known as a mandolin. It’s a fancy chef tool but easily slices the potatoes into even rounds. It’s not absolutely necessary though, a sharp knife works well too!

A recipe from Food Country, Chef Michael Smith’s new web series on www.chefmichaelsmith.com ©Chef Michael Smith

ARE YOU SEEKING YOUR DREAM KITCHEN? For many of us who decide to undertake a kitchen renovation, we discover that it can be one of

FABULOUS KITCHENS INCREDIBLE LIVING ROOMS

the most significant investments made in our home. It takes months of shopping, researching, comparing, and qualifying the fit and features that best match our needs, budget, and lifestyle. When making these decisions, we seldom find everything we require under one roof. We discover the perfect cabinets at one retailer... countertop at a place in the north end… appliances at a place across town from there… and cutlery and dishes after a search citywide. We hope it all comes together and by some miracle we’ll find it all in a timely fashion, and it will turn out just as we had imagined on the design board.

For those whoDirectBuy, have already North tackled America’s a kitchen reno, they can Just what you would expect from leading attest to the fact of that it can be a difficult, nerve-wracking and slow-going process. If the you asked distributor brand-name merchandise for your home… without retail these renovation veterans if they would do it markup again, some would say yes, because they love the finished product. Some would say no, and those people, we think, didn’t know about DirectBuy.

WHAT YOU MIGHT NOT EXPECT… PAGE 23

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With more options than you could possibly imagine, for far less than you would expect to pay...

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FABULOUS KITCHEN INCREDIBLE LIVING RO hoped,

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WHAT YOU MIGHT NOT EXPECT… PAGE 23

When you are in the process of renovating your kitchen, You owe it to yourself and your family to take the time to shop DirectBuy before you make any final purchases. Other retailers may claim that they have the best selection, quality, and value, but we guarantee nothing compares to DirectBuy. DirectBuy offers your family SELECTION, VALUE and SAVINGS. Our direct connection with more than 500 top manufacturers allow you to SAVE THOUSANDS on high end products and brand name merchandise for your home and life-

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BEFORE AFTER

PUTTING THE WOW FACTOR BACK INTO YOUR KITCHEN‌

IT’S MAGIC

BY CANDACE FOX Donna Marchand, owner and operator of Kitchen Magic Saskatoon considers kitchen remodelling and renovating not a job, but rather a passion that she finds intrinsically rewarding and exciting. Her company specializes in existing cabinetry re-facing as an inexpensive and environmentally

friendly way to upgrade any kitchen space.

This highly popular alternative to major construction is ideal for homeowners who are not interested in moving but just want to give their home and kitchen a fresh look.

The three options the company offers

customers are: simply replacing doors and drawer fronts, doing additional addons to the kitchen cabinets and drawers, or a complete re-facing of the entire kitchen. Countertops can be replaced to complete the look of a freshly redone kitchen. The end result for custom-

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“We have already recommended Kitchen Magic to friends and family who are looking to upgrade their kitchens.”

Patricia and Dennis Chubb

ers is a revamped area in their home they can love again, with less disruption to their lives and more money in their pockets. Donna understands that the hardest part of the renovating process is “finding someone the customer can trust and who will completely listen to and do what they want, and do it right.”

Kitchen Magic’s policy on customer satisfaction is simple, the customer does not pay until they are happy.

The two-year-old business has another value-added component for customers. Kitchen Magic is completely mobile and brings the showroom straight to the homeowner’s door. “It’s all about the customer, the whole process is about making them happy and listening to what they need and want,” Donna states.

The company enjoys the benefits of being mobile and going straight to the project site, as they can see firsthand what they will be working with, and fully understand what the customer’s needs and wants are. Customers enjoy the convenience of having the consultation at their home, during a convenient time for them.

AFTER

BEFORE

Kitchen Magic also enjoys the competitive pricing they can offer customers that other businesses in the industry are not able to match with the same quality finished product. Donna notes that being mobile and not having a large showroom to manage allows her the ability to offer a lower price to clients while still guaranteeing the highest quality materials used, including the highly popular Thermaform which is backed by a 10-year warranty.

With over 10 years’ experience in the business, Donna has become a trusted sound board for other renovating decisions in customers’ homes. She is often found working with numerous vendors and suppliers on additional aspects of the kitchen to ensure there is flow between the work of Kitchen Magic and the complete project.

As a member of Trusted Saskatoon, the business prides itself on honesty and integrity and providing the best possible

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BEFORE

product and service available in Saskatoon.

Customers working with Kitchen Magic can be assured their kitchen upgrade will be done right, and exactly how they wanted it.

Ken and Judy Busch from Saskatoon recount their experience with Kitchen Magic:

AFTER AFTER

“It started with a very professional presentation of our kitchen cabinet make over.

Donna went through options available and made suggestions as to the layout and design of our project. The installers came and the professionalism continued.

The workmanship was top notch. We are extremely satisfied with the total package that we received. I highly recommend Kitchen Magic for anyone wanting to put a wow factor into their existing kitchen.”

Kitchen Magic can take any homeowner’s outdated and drab kitchen and turn it into their dream cooking haven without the unnecessary demolition and high costs of a complete renovation. Contact Donna for a consultation at your convenience. She can work within your budget and show you all the possibilities hidden in your existing kitchen while ensuring you get exactly what you want. FHS

BEFORE

Kitchen Magic P: 306.280.8232 F: 306.384.2558 kitmagicinc@gmail.com www.kitchenmagic.ca Given the thumbs up by:

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DEFY CONVENTION Take the inside out

BY TAMMY CEASER. PHOTOS BY HEATHER FRITZ

T

wo things that are typical today for many of Saskatoonians: One, rather than planning traditional, holiday getaways, many of us are choosing affordable and convenient “staycations� as a sensible alternative. And second, we are investing in our home more than ever.

Choosing to do renovations and make our homes more liveable adds to the value of our lifestyle, and provides us with something we enjoy every day. It adds to the overall value of our property, and we will enjoy a return on our investment for many years to come. One of the most popular renovating trends in Saskatoon this year is adding an outdoor kitchen.

Little known to many Saskatoon homeowners, the best place to shop for this popular addition is Arctic Spa of Saskatoon.

And The Walls Came Down Unlike traditional indoor kitchens, an outdoor kitchen is not limited to the typical constraints of walls or doorways, the size or shape of appliances, windows and cupboards. Pick and choose the fun and diverse options you could never add in a traditional indoor kitchen, and truly make the flow

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all your own. It’s like starting from scratch, but you decide where the walls go! It can take up as much or as little space you choose, and can have as many features as you would like to meet your lifestyle and needs.

The functionality—especially for those who spend a lot of time cooking and entertaining guests outdoors—is beyond belief. Compared to traditional indoor kitchen renovations, even the most extravagant outdoor kitchens tend to be a fraction of the cost, but can add to the overall value your home when done professionally. It is also less of a headache, because you can still have your morning coffee comfortably indoors while renovations are taking place. Combine all those options with the variety of styles and finishes available, and it quickly becomes a fun and practical addition to your home.

A New Addition to the Family Chuck Walker, owner of Arctic Spa of Saskatoon, has been excited to include the addition of the Summerset Outdoor Living line this year. “I decided this was something I wanted to bring into my store, and share it with all my customers.”

Walker says. “Gone are the days of running back and forth between the barbecue and the kitchen. Now, everything you need is all right there. I think when people first come in and see the options, they are

really amazed with the selection and styles that are available to them in the outdoor kitchen line.

“Every single kitchen we design is customized to each customer, and what their needs are when adding that living space to their home. And although typical kitchen renovations can sometimes mean a second mortgage, I really enjoy showing the customer the cost. There is great value here, often way more than people are accustomed to getting for their dollar when it comes to buying traditional appliances, fixtures, and finishes for inside the home.”

The Simple Life An outdoor kitchen may be the most versatile room outside of the home because you can easily incorporate functionality, practicality, style, and fun.

Now when you host an outdoor party or barbecue, it’s simpler than ever. Never again do you find yourself running in for food from the kitchen or drinks from the bar. It’s all right there, so you can take the time discussing the latest news and chatting with your guests. Bugs are no longer a problem from constant in and out traffic, and your guests can relax and enjoy the view. Every option you could imagine is available: Islands for food preparation, seating, and storage; outdoor bars complete with fridges, ice chests, and beverage centers (don’t forget the margarita mixer, because it is there too!);

plus the cabinetry, complete with sink and trash chute.

Choose the finish on your grill cart, and burners—or even a pizza oven if that’s your choice! The furniture options are practical, comfortable, stylish, and offer an abundant choice of fabrics and colours.

All of the above, and Walker hasn’t even introduced the fun options! How about a games or Foosball table for the big kids? A hot tub is a much more affordable luxury now, plus you’re getting it from Walker, so you have the expertise behind you when it comes to installation. For the best of fire and water, jump out of the hot tub and stay warm with a fire pit. Wrap it all up with the most functional accent pieces, and presto, a heart of the home—outside!

A Taste of Saskatchewan...and Beyond Summerset Outdoor Living offers a selection of dynamic and affordable outdoor furnishings adaptable to any outdoor space. Savour the moment with styles like Contemporary and Traditional.

Capture the essence of Europe with Italian, Spanish, Mediterranean, Tuscan, or French designs. Or bask in sunny south of the border dreams, and bring a tropical Mexican or South American flair to your backyard.

Whether you choose casual or elegant, a classic or contemporary design, you

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can be assured endless comfort and style. Summerset Outdoor Living strives to uphold and maintain a high standard of excellence in the design and function of outdoor furnishings by focusing on what retail and wholesale patio furniture consumers demand. This list includes, but isn’t limited to, quality, style, affordability and comfort—just a few of the options you are likely to experience when enjoying the Summerset Outdoor Living products.

Arctic Spa offers a wide selection of casual and high end, wholesale outdoor furniture and accessories.

In addition, they offer wholesale outdoor kitchen solutions, such as barbecue islands, professional stainless steel BBQ grills and components, barbecue burners and barbecue grilling accessories.

Summerset Outdoor Living has developed expert techniques with their unique designs to furnish your outdoor haven.

Creating furniture designs in cast aluminum, weave and glass top patio dining selections, these pieces are sure to capture any idea. If it’s for the outdoors, Summerset Outdoor Living will furnish it.

Party on it, relax on it, sleep on it; make Summerset furniture your preferred brand and set out to create that perfect outdoor escape that you will enjoy for many years to come. Summerset Outdoor Living wholesale patio furniture and barbecue grill products are readily available through an authorized Summerset dealer near you.

So whether you are designing your pool area as a personal destination resort, or morphing your backyard jungle into a relaxing retreat, you will get exactly what you’ve been looking for with Summerset Outdoor Living. Make your dreams a reality and start to experience your vision by visiting a dealer near you today.

Summerset Living Patio Furniture delivers the widest cross section of functional outdoor living products in the marketplace today. View their exciting new catalog at www.summersetoutdoorliving.com. FHS

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Arctic Spas Saskatoon Owner, Chuck Walker 2-2345 Millar Avenue 306.668.1801 1.800.268.7727 www.arcticspassaskatoon.com www.summersetoutdoorliving.com

Our knowledgeable staff will help you with all your plumbing and electrical needs. Visit our expanding showroom to see the latest trends in luxury bath/shower fixtures. Our years of expertise will match your needs to our products.

We are committed to customer service.

Kohler, BainUltra and other luxury brands 829 - 46 Street l Saskatoon l 306-664-2389 l www.barobinson.com

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the Plumb Shoppe

BY TAMMY CEASER. PHOTOS BY LISA LANDRIE

T

he Plumb Shoppe was founded 18 years ago by Gordon Bethel who takes pride in offering Saskatoon the latest innovations in ultra-modern plumbing fixtures and accessories. Experience the live showroom where you will find an array of traditional, antique and European lines hand-selected from shows around the world.

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“We have no run-of-the-mill items here,” says Gordon. “We only carry what stands up and we know what does and does not.” From organic and earthy natural element sinks to the latest in steam molecules to rejuvenate your skin in the shower, customizing and adding luxury to your home is as easy as visiting the Plumb Shoppe show-

room at 2225 Avenue C North.

Sinks of distinction The showroom at the Plumb Shoppe is a one stop shop for kitchen and bathroom sinks in a wide variety of shapes, sizes and textures. Drop in, vessel, undermount, and more— there is a huge selection to accom-

modate anyone’s taste. Bronze, stainless steel, onyx, bamboo, copper, stone, solid surface and granite are some of the materials to choose from when designing your kitchen and bathroom. There is no shortage of choice for the most discerning home renovator or new home designer.

Experience GROHE Technology The Plumb Shoppe is happy to provide GROHE Technology that is world renowned for its technical excellence and longevity of bathroom and kitchen faucets. Grohe products are solid throughout, durable and easy to clean. The German company is known for 80 years without leaks and has a variety of styles to cater to modern, traditional and contemporary tastes. You can trust that seven decades of research and development will be a good choice for your home.

Natural elements for your ambiance The Plumb Shoppe carries brands, such as Stone Forest, that follow nature’s blueprint and offer contemporary designs sculpted from natural materials.

Handcrafted in stone, copper, bronze, iron and wood, they allow you to create a unique, customized space that evokes the presence of natural history. With Zero and Veneto pedestal sinks—available in Zen Vessel, Copper Farmhouse and Wave—you will be taken away with

the natural beauty and ambiance these earthy materials will radiate in your home.

Stay warm with cosy in-floor heating and heated towel racks Stay warm during Saskatchewan winters with radiant in-floor heating. Suitable for most floors beneath carpet, tile, laminate and vinyl, the technology is compatible with sub-floors including concrete and wood as well. Save the chills for when you are outside and stay cozy in the comfort of your home. Comforting in-floor heating is efficient to run. A typical floor of 35 square feet would cost roughly 12 cents per day.

Not ready to commit to in-floor heating?

The Plumb Shoppe also offers heated towel racks so you can brave getting out of the shower and nuzzle into your warm towel.

Microsilk-the fountain of youth Introducing to Saskatoon a new innovative form of hydrotherapy, Microsilk bathing rejuvenates and hydrates the skin leaving it silky and smooth to touch with fewer lines and creases. This is the kind of therapeutic experience for those who wish to maintain a youthful look.

Clean is happy with the Toto Washlet toilet

plumbing solutions for the home. They were one of the first manufacturers of lowflush, non-stick toilets. Today the company offers its latest, the Washlet. This new model has a heated seat, warm water cleanse and gentle air dry to help you feel fresh and comfortable. The seat fits on any standard toilet and uses a gentle stream of warm water with Wonderwave technology that creates tiny, ingeniously-shaped waveforms that work gently to leave you refreshed and clean. Not only are these toilets high performance, they also have sanagloss glaze that helps to fight stains and eliminate bacteria from your bowl.

Getting the right advice The employees at the Plumb Shoppe have over 100 years combined experience and are happy to share any advice you may need or answer any questions you may have. Enjoy the boutique shopping experience with personalized attention ensuring that you are getting the right technical and aesthetic fit for your home.

People remember how they were treated wh en they visit the Plumb Shoppe. FHS The Plumb Shoppe 2225 B Avenue C North Saskatoon, SK 306.249.400 www.plumbshoppe.com

The Plumb Shoppe carries toilets by Toto, the world’s largest producer of innovative

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THE HEART OF YOUR HOME IS THE KITCHEN

So why settle for average?

Come to the Plumb Shoppe where our staff is committed to complete customer satisfaction.

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FOR MIRAGE, KITCHEN CABINETS ARE A WAY OF LIFE

BY TAMMY CEASER. PHOTOS BY LISA LANDRIE

O

ne of the things you will notice when you step into Mirage Woodworks is the genuine interest the staff takes in the needs of their clients. It shows from the first interaction to the final installation of your cabinets. For owner, AJ Itterman, who is also the sales manager and designer, creating custom kitchen cabinets is his way of life and he understands that his clients are the most important part of his business. In today’s fast-paced world, it is easy to produce impersonal products in mass quantity, but that is not true for AJ and his staff. Every detail about Mirage kitchen cabinets is custom designed and perfectly suited to the client’s lifestyle.

Mirage Woodworks is a locally-owned and operated business. Purchasing locally ensures you know where your product is coming from. Mirage strives to be price competitive, while keeping value and quality top-of-mind for their clients. Often customers shopping for a new kitchen tend to shy away from high quality products because they can be accompanied with a hefty price tag. Mirage understands how to deliver

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quality at a reasonable price as they have their finger on the pulse of the Saskatoon consumer!

It actually IS easy being green Mirage Woodworks strives for healthy homes, raising the standards in cabinetry so it becomes the norm, not the exception to use safer products. They use formaldehyde-free plywood and low-formaldehyde melamine to make their cabinet boxes and drawer boxes. To guarantee a healthier kitchen, Mirage also uses a water-based lacquer instead of a solvent-based lacquer which means no off-gassing. Off-gassing is when solventbased lacquer or stains release chemicals into the air as they dry due to evaporation.

These chemicals can continue to be released into the air for many years creating an unhealthy environment for you and your family.

Clients looking for environmentally friendly options will be happy to find that Mirage Woodworks is staying on the cutting edge of new materials. AJ

scale. Children love to visit the Mirage showroom just to play in it. It is cool and functional, with a creative warmth echoed in Mirage Woodworks full-scale projects.

Mirage Woodworks has a philosophy that although houses may have similar floor plans, nothing ever has to be the same. If a client has a vision or request, AJ makes it happen.

“Kitchens are a big investment; you should be able to choose the features you want versus what the manufacturer is willing to sell you” AJ says. This stays true not just in kitchens but in the multitude of additional services Mirage provides, such as: bathroom vanities, laundry room storage, china cabinets, floating shelves, entertainment units, and wet/dry bars.

After many years in the industry AJ is still humbled to see his kitchens installed in many of the finest homes across Saskatchewan. He now employs eight families and is pleased to see his business grow and become a common name in the homes of Saskatoon. Along with his wife Crystal, co-owner Ben Tinson, and the rest of the Mirage Woodworks staff, AJ thanks his previous clients and looks forward to working with the many new clients yet to come. FHS

provides a product that is exclusive to Mirage Woodworks called Paperstone®.

- “The countertop with a conscience TM”. Paperstone® is made from 100 percent post-consumer recycled paper and recycled cardboard. Known for its environmental sustainability, it is innovative and cost-competitive. With its stone-like beauty and array of colours, the natural earth-toned countertop provides a warm touch to any room.

The surface provides stain resistance, steel-like strength, wonderful colour stability, and boasts heat resistance up to 350 degrees making it one of the most durable countertops on the market. When it comes time to clean, a damp sponge and dish soap will do.

STAFF AT MIRAGE WOODWORKS

Family Focus Products like Paperstone® prove that future and family drive AJ and his staff and explain why their clients are so pleased with their service.

Everything they create is customtailored to not only the home itself but to the family who lives there. The love of family is evident even in their showroom; nestled in a corner is a complete kitchen built in child-size

Mirage Woodworks Inc. 2236 Avenue C North 306.343.9663 www.miragewoodworks.com info@miragewoodworks.com facebook.com/miragewoodworksinc

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ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE…

WITH GLASS

BY CANDACE FOX

PHOTOS BY GRANT ROMANCIA

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Glass is different Many materials are beautiful, but none have the optical properties of designer glass. The combinations of colours and textures possible with treated, sculpted glass, combined with its interplay with light, allows you to illuminate your space and create the perfect atmosphere for your home, office or commercial area.

Glass is versatile From sculpture to structural elements, glass can be used for almost anything you can imagine. Designer glass can be smart and modern, classic and sophisticated, fun and lively, or bold and brawny. It is style and function in one versatile, timeless material.

Just some of the possible applications include: Backsplashes Freestanding walls

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Door inserts Countertops Signage Art pieces

Glass is durable Castle designer glass is strengthened to be extremely hard-wearing.

It is stain and heat resistant and requires no grout lines, making it easy to clean and maintain and the perfect material for kitchens and bathrooms.

Glass is gorgeous Nothing says luxury like fine glass. It adds finesse to function, elegance to structure and personality to your space.

Step into Castle Designer Glass and your senses will be stimulated by the virtually limitless design possibilities of glass.

“Glass has become a very important element in architecture not only in grand public structures but also in the lives

and homes of families across the world,” says Janet Parkinson, Castle owner.

“The beauty of glass lies in its simplicity; it enables us to be enveloped by nature while living comfortably indoors.” FHS

WHY GLASS BACKSPLASHES? • Wow factor that makes it the focal point of your kitchen.

• High-end appearance.

• Maintenance free.

• Impossible to stain.

• Textured finish underneath that masks finger prints common wear and allow scratches to go unnoticed.

WHY USE GLASS IN YOUR ARCHITECHURAL PROJECTS? • Most noble material.

• You can use glass in all types of applications, countertops, freestanding walls, signage, backsplashes, stair rail, and door and cabinet inserts.

CASTLE DESIGNER GLASS Is the ultimate in heat-sculpted glass for all architectural applications.

CASTLE DESIGNER GLASS 840 47th Street East Saskatoon, SK S4K 0X4 Phone: 306-477-0098 Fax: 306-653-2220 www.castledesignerglass.com

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LATE SUMMER GARDENING WITH KEN BEATTIE

Noticeably shorter days, an abundance of produce and a shifting of yard maintenance all herald the inevitable finale of the gardening season. Cries from anxious homeowners who have spent the better part of their free time weeding, coddling, coaxing and cursing at their yards are doubtless drowning out anything else.

“It’s not over yet!”

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n truth, August and September can be the most magical time in the urban prairie landscape and one of my personal favourites. For the most part, this period is a time to celebrate your efforts as vegetables are full and juicy with all the tender loving care applied since the long weekend in May. Perennials, with the exception of Delphiniums, are looking spectacular and may actually have doubled their size since installation. Alas, the “Delphinium winds” have taken their toll reducing the pride and joy of the neighborhood to stunted clumps of shredded leaf mould, yes with a hint of pinkishblue, the remnants of noble floral stalks.

Hostas are in full glory during the lazy days of summer sporting dangling bell flowers in hundreds of blue hues to stark white. It seems that even the slugs are vacationing, all fattened up, slathered in sunscreen and reaching for just one more “Hosta Sunrise” as they lounge in their sluggie hammocks.

Potentilla, Weigela, Mock Orange and Hydrangea boast their best blossoms in August, bridging the colour palette into the autumnal tones of Chrysanthemums, ornamental Kale and fall Crocus.

There is a tendency at this time of the year, for newer gardeners in particular, to want to “do something” in the landscape.

The best advice is to sit in the garden and enjoy it. Better yet, if you have itchy

pruning fingers, exercise the option of collecting cut flowers and foliage to be enjoyed either indoors or on the patio table.

One trick that I have used for years is to take my clean container, with fresh cool water into the garden as I prepare to make an arrangement. Understanding that the sooner the cut stems are in water the better and their longevity increases, it makes perfect sense. I do not limit the exercise to simply flowers, after all, you may have waited all season to see that particular specimen produce, and now what, cut it off? No way!

Temper your designing talents by adding foliage to your arrangement that will enhance as well as fill the vase. Rhubarb, Hosta and Rodgersia foliage are big, bold and

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always in abundance, typically outlasting the floral component of the arrangement.

The perennial Rodgersia podphylla may not be that common to all of you, but a sure fire winner for the prairie urbanscape. This plant has enormous, platelike leaves held by stiff and sturdy stalks high above the soil level. Hardy and adaptable to less than ideal soil conditions, this workhorse perennial is a must have for bold, character foliage.

August is a very good time to pick up a few straggly waifs, the lost and less fortunate of the perennial gang often not looking primped and proper as they did earlier in the season. A bargain is a bargain after all. Landscapers and better garden centres will be familiar with Rodgersia podophylla, so if enough consumers ask for this plant, by spring of 2012 there should be an ample supply. The specimen that resides in my rear gardens usually is in full bloom during the entire month of August. Now the blooms are not the primary reason that I cultivate this plant as they are somewhat shaggy mopheads. Still, they do spark conversation and queries from guests.

Monkshood or Aconitum napellus is another steadfast and reliable late summer favourite. She stands almost two metres tall waving her cobalt blue tresses with ease, even against the “Delphinium winds.” Cautious gardeners will often place a tomato cage or some such support system around the clumps early in the year. Actually, I use twigs and sticks that have fallen from the trees in the neighborhood allowing the Monkshood to grow through them, twisting and turning so that the supports disappear.

This rather natural way of staking works for other lanky perennials too. The shade loving Thalictrum aquilegifolium is one of the best candidates for this method of support. Thalictrum has very delicate foliage and even more delightful clusters of flowers, reminiscent of Baby’s Breath.

The mauve clusters are held high on the plant making it an ideal candidate for the back of the border as she will peek over the heads of most border perennials.

One of my plants stands like a sentinel under the oppressive shade of a Maple tree in deep, dry shade. The soil was of course

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amended with compost and leaf mold to increase its water holding capacity and three twig-stakes. There she stands, bold as brass waving her just opening cascade of mauve, almost a punctuation mark in the otherwise dark corner of my east garden.

Enjoy the lazy days of summer, secure a perimeter with your buds at the local garden centres stalking sales and bargains and just relax. There will be bulbs for fall planting on the shelves about the same time as the back-to-school gack appears, so keep a weather eye out for them too.

One of the favourite sayings for prairie gardeners is: “there is always next year.” There is a great deal of truth in that, isn’t there? FHS Ken Beattie, affectionately known as Canada’s Favourite Gardener, is a graduate of the prestigious Niagara Parks Commission School of Horticulture and is currently Director of Horticulture for Assiniboine Park, one of North America’s largest urban parks, in Winnipeg. As a TV host, radio contributor and author, his easy exuberance and playful personality are well-known to enthusiasts from Saskatchewan to the Philippines.

PREPARING YOUR COTTAGE FOR WINTER

Tips to ensure a stress-free spring

BY BRADEN DUPUIS t

Y

ou can only live in denial for so long.

No matter how hard you resist, summer is once again coming to a close in Saskatchewan. No more putting it off. It’s time to drain the survivors in the beer fridge, deflate the rubber dinghies, barbecue every ounce of propane out of that tank and of course, start preparing your summer getaway home for the endless, torturous winter months ahead. But do not despair. The welcoming warmth of summer days will be back before you know it—right?—and taking

the right steps toward preparing your cabin or cottage for the winter will ensure you enjoy a stress-free return come May. The first thing you should do to prepare for the winter weather is make sure your water is completely shut off and drained from your water tank and pipes. Any water left lingering will freeze over the winter, which could result in burst pipes and thousands of dollars in unnecessary damage. Turning the water off is a simple and effective solution. Some people recom-

mend using antifreeze in plumbing lines to protect the pipes, but the toxicity of the substance may pose a threat to both ground and surface waters, as well as any person or animal that accidentally ingests it. If you ensure your pipes are drained of all water before you leave for the winter, antifreeze may be unnecessary.

Your next step should be taking stock of the condition of all your cottage’s windows and doors. Making sure the seals are in good shape will help keep unwanted

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The next stop on your sullen farewell-tosummer tour is a full inspection of your cottage’s roof. Any significant damage should be repaired before you leave for the winter to prevent more unwanted moisture finding its way in. At some point during the winter you’ll probably want to make your way back to the cottage to shovel off the (no doubt) overwhelming accumulation of snow that has made its home on your roof. Doing this at least once during the winter months will help relieve the stress on your roof and reduce the chances of damage or leaks.

that need to be completed before you leave for the winter like raking, mowing, cleaning etc., there are a number of things you should be on the lookout for.

Any exposed wood surfaces that are in need of a paint job should be touched up before the freezing temperatures hit, as the fresh paint will help protect your seasonal abode from moisture. Eaves troughs should be cleared, chimneys should be swept and covered, and a full inspection should be conducted on your cottage’s exterior to be sure that there are no open invitations for pests in search of the perfect winter home. Another key strategy in keeping away uninvited house guests, (be they rodent or human) is removing all food sources from inside your cottage while you’re away.

Once you’ve walked slowly and sadly through your cabin, taking note of the water, windows, and roof while fighting back tears, it’s probably time you moved to the outside. Besides the obvious things

Speaking of uninvited houseguests, you should also be sure to take all the necessary steps in burglary prevention. Keep any valuables you leave behind (televisions, stereos, etc.) out of sight, and no-

moisture from getting in during your time away. Double checking locks and latches is never a bad idea either, especially if you’re prone to worry about winter time looters.

tify the local police or neighbourhood watch (with a reluctant sigh) that you won’t be back until spring. Unfortunately, the isolation winter tends to bring to lake resorts makes cottages a prime target for burglars, but taking the appropriate measures before you leave may end up saving you some cash when you get back.

Before you get in the car to head for home, make sure you double- and triple-check everything in and around your cottage.

Take note of all the things you need to do when you return in the spring. Shut off any fuel, gas, oil or propane that is serving the cabin. Turn off the lights, unplug all your appliances, shut off the main breaker and lock the doors. And as you drive away from your summertime palace for the last time until spring, do yourself a favour.

Don’t look in the rear view mirror. It’s too painful. FHS

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YOUR HOUSE AS A SYSTEM How to prioritize home efficiency upgrades

BY SHELL BUSEY

he previously discontinued ecoENERGY Retrofit for Homes Program is again in place for homeowners across Canada who want to upgrade the energy deficiencies in their homes.

In order to participate, you must have an energy audit performed on your home by a certified energy adviser licensed by Natural Resources Canada. This audit qualifies your home based on a score out of 100 in terms of its energy efficiency. If your home scores between 55 and 65, for instance, there are clearly improvements to be made in such areas as insulation, draft proofing, ventilation and the windows and heating systems.

Each upgrade has an available grant, provided you follow the criteria outlined in the audit report.

Some high-pressure salespeople may promote their services for upgrades, but homeowners should remember that

the most important part of the program comes down to what items you address first. Consider the sequence of priority to the upgrades, not where can you get the biggest bang for the buck relevant to the grant.

Over the years, unfortunately, I have seen some homeowners ignoring the best ways to approach upgrades in order to get as much grant money as possible. But let me tell you, there is a priority sequence in

improving the efficiency and quality of a home.

Some upgrades, if done out of sequence, can negatively affect the quality of life within a home. If done improperly, for instance, one consequence can be excessive moisture that can cause mould growth.

You need to start understanding your home as a system involving: insulation,

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draft proofing, heating, ventilation, windows, doors, and other items. Let me explain in more detail.

1. Your House as a System Here’s a quote from a Natural Resources Canada publication called “Keeping the Heat In.” It summarizes exactly my main point. “It is important to understand how your house works before starting any retrofit work. This will ensure that the job will meet your expectations and that you won’t be causing new problems while solving old ones.”

2. Insulation/Draft proofing Window and door upgrades can reduce draft, but also increase moisture retention.

If you don’t draft proof your home, the added insulation is not effectively doing its job. Have you ever held up a bat of insulation to your face (please wear a mask when you do this) and blow? You will find your breath will go right through.

Now, put the batt in a plastic bag and try again. The plastic bag will act as a vapor barrier. You’ll notice the air does not pass through the insulation, that’s how draft proofing works. Draft proofing is achieved through items such as caulking, spray foam insulation, tuck tape, and so on.

3. Heating, Air Conditioning (heat pumps), and Ventilation When you address your heating and cooling system, you will encounter items such as high efficiency furnaces, heat pumps, HRVs (Heat Recovery Ventilators), and kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans.

All of these items significantly affect how your house works. For example, high efficiency condensing furnaces no longer remove air from inside the home for use in the combustion of natural gas or oil to heat your home. This will increase the relative humidity inside your home in addition to humidity caused by your lifestyle within the home—such as showers and cooking.

Where does the additional moisture caused by this change end up inside your home?

The moisture will end up on your window glass if you don’t address ventilation.

Heat pumps and air conditioners while

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operating act like a high powered dehumidifier in your home, drying out your interior environment. HRVs and exhaust ventilation extract stale air from the home allowing fresh air to come back into the home through make-up air vents. An additional benefit of an HRV is that it will bring fresh air from outside into the home, and while that process is occurring the fresh air is being warmed or cooled within the HRV depending on the season.

4. Windows and Doors These items are very important, but in most cases they are installed before items 1 through 3 are addressed. Besides making your home look more cosmetically appealing, new windows and doors tighten the home envelope which can cause concerns with items that haven’t been addressed such as heating and ventilation as described in item 3. Keep in mind, the value of comfort is what you address with new windows and doors, not to overlook the curb appeal they add to your home. The best window you can put in your home today with triple pane Low E Argon glass, keeping affordability in mind, will give you an R value less than one quarter the R value you can achieve from your wall insulation.

5. Others When dollars and cents are being considered, there are many other items that can be considered such as: hot water boilers, tankless hot water heaters, thermostats, dehumidistats, skylights, drain water heat recovery systems, and so on. FHS

Shell Busey is a popular radio and television host and owner of Shell Busey’s Housesmart Home Services and Products Referral Network. www.housesmartcentre.com

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BY TAMMY CEASER

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hy haven’t you come to see “the experts you need to know?” With highly qualified staff members who have built the business for over 30 years, the Windsor Plywood team really does know what they’re talking about. But then, when you are working at Windsor for 12, 17, or even 25 years, you are obviously the go-to-guy, right?

Much of Windsor’s success is its focus on local community and customer service, while their philosophy relies on “handson” management, meaning you will often find the store manager on the sales floor helping customers. It’s a heightened and more honest level of service, with a desire to help the customer complete the project at hand.

Regularly checking other building retailers, Windsor Plywood is price competitive, and still supplies the highest quality product. Windsor Plywood provides a plethora of services, such as sheet rough cuts, door adjustments, delivery services,

even estimates and quotes. Trust them to help you get the job done quickly, and get it done right. It’s their family of experts helping make your family a home.

All Decked Out For those of us fortunate enough to have a deck in the backyard, enjoying a cup of coffee in the morning while the sun rises is a relaxing and wonderful way to start the day. The last thing you want as an early bird is to get an annoying sliver from the weathered wood. This leads to fretting about the deck requiring some maintenance, or maybe it’s time for a complete overhaul.

Introducing Rhino Deck: it looks like wood, but requires no painting or staining, and it won’t give you splinters. This is a low maintenance product. The Rhino Deck warranty touts that it will not rot, split, check, splinter or suffer structural damage from fungal decay or termites for a period of 20 years under normal use and conditions.

It is reversible with wood grain on both sides, and provides slip resistance in wet or dry circumstances. Regular tools are used for installation, no need to purchase any specialty items for the job. Rhino Deck is also a friend to Mother Nature, made with recycled wood and 100 per cent postconsumer polyethylene recycled plastic.

This keeps tonnes of post-consumer plastic and wood scrap out of landfills each and every year. Currently recycling over one billion plastic containers a year, it is clear why recycling has been Rhino Deck’s business since 1986.

So when you are outside on your new and improved Rhino Deck oasis sipping your glass of burgundy, appreciate your eco-friendly deck, and rest assured that Mother Nature appreciates you right back.

Floor It The Man Cave–where males go to work, play, and possibly, sometimes, hide.

Whatever you’re doing out there, look

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Rock Solid Floors manufactures polyurea floor coatings. The core of Rock Solid’s floor coating systems, Polyurea is the latest advancement in coating technology.

It is incredibly strong. In fact, it’s 20 times stronger than water-based epoxy floor paints. Impact resistance is high as well, with Rock Solid Floors scoffing at the likes of floor jacks, jack stands, and vehicle traffic in general.

In the Rock Solid Polyurea Garage Coat Kit, it boasts the coating as the ultimate solution in speed and strength. With no mixing or measuring, you just shake, pour, and roll. It cures quickly, with foot traffic allowed in four to eight hours, and vehicles can come back “home” within 24 hours. The coating won’t cure until rolled out, covering 400 square feett on sealed surfaces and 250 square feett on unsealed.

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It is more flexible than epoxy, ensuring it won’t crack or peel. It is resistant to salt, gas, oil and other harsh chemicals, making it one of the toughest floor coatings in the world. It is easy to maintain, and will last a lifetime. Rock Solid Polyurea Grey Garage Coat is more environmentally friendly because it is ultra-low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Packaging has been changed from cans to pouches, thoughtfully putting less waste into landfills.

The final product is impressive. For anyone who doesn’t want to take the time to sweep their floor, Rock Solid provides great incentive. In fact, this is probably where “the floor’s so clean you could eat off of it” quip originally came from. FHS

60 St. E.

57 St. E.

51 St.

Millar Avenue

good with some help from Rock Solid Floors. Bid a fond farewell to cracks and gouges in your floor, and water-based epoxy floor paints. Say hello to new granite-looking floors, easy repairs and extreme durability.

Windsor Plywood 3222 Millar Avenue 306.932.1232 www.windsorplywood.com

FOR THE COMFORT OF YOUR HOME AND YOUR POCKETBOOK: POLYPLUS

BY BRADEN DUPUIS

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Most home builders who choose foam insulation will see their investment returned within 4-8 years, depending on the size of the home, and nearly all of PolyPlus’ foam customers have reported a significant drop in their heating bills.

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hen choosing companies to help you build your home, there are a few qualities that almost everyone looks for. Quality work, done on time and for competitive prices.

Friendly service, sensitive to the needs of today’s knowledgeable consumer. The convenience of finding everything you need under one roof, and, if at all possible, a company that is locally owned and operated right in your back yard.

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Jim Huziek’s PolyPlus Insulators Inc. embodies all of these traits and more. Started from his Martensville basement in September of 1996, PolyPlus has grown to become one of Saskatoon’s leading onestop-shops for insulation in just 15 short years. In the beginning, Huziek’s company served only one contractor, but through honest hard work and positive word-ofmouth, his modest company began taking on more and more contractors, and

steadily evolved into something much bigger.

Part of the reason for his company’s success is the matter with which they treat their customers. Open and honest with every detail, practical and efficient in every execution, Huziek and his employees treat every customer as if they were a life-long friend. Every house they work on, they treat as if it were their own home.

Today’s consumers are more informed

than ever before. They know what they want, when they need it, and have little time for excuses, which keeps Huziek and his charges constantly on their toes. In a world of fierce competition there is little room for error, and PolyPlus insulators are well aware of that fact, which is why they go above and beyond to fully satisfy the customer’s every request.

Huziek and his company are also well aware that they owe a great deal of their success to the city of Saskatoon and surrounding areas of Martensville and Warman and its residents, which is why they take great pride in their ability to give back to the communities that supports them. Every year, PolyPlus donates more than 30,000 dollars to minor sports programs around Saskatoon such as minor hockey, junior fastball, and SASA softball Saskatchewan... anything to help keep kids active and involved. They also provide generous donations of money and food to different charities in and around Saskatoon.

When talking about his company’s success, Huziek doesn’t hesitate to give credit where credit is due. “It’s not just me,” he says. “It’s the tradesmen that work for me. They’re the company.” PolyPlus now employs 13 full-time, fully qualified, knowledgeable and professional installers, who are ready and willing to adapt to anything the customer may need. Leading the team is Huziek’s long time friend and new business partner Cliff Warlow, who has worked for PolyPlus for more than eight years and joined the ownership side of things in January of 2009.

Warlow is the type of veteran installer that companies and customers dream of, with the kind of knowledge and experience you can’t put a price on. Huziek and Warlow expect nothing but the best from their team of installers, and it shows in the quality of their work and their consistently stellar track record.

The PolyPlus headquarters in Martensville is a one-stop-shop for all of your insulating needs. Whether it’s batt, blow, poly or foam, Huziek and his team have all the necessary ingredients at their disposal to get the job done. There is no job too big or too small , and with little need to sublet anything, PolyPlus is able to pass the savings down to the consumer.

One of the most recent innovations in insulating technology is the use of spray foam, something that Huziek sees as becoming industry standard in 5-8 years.

The foam comes at a higher installation cost, but will save customers in the long run. Most home builders who choose foam insulation will see their investment returned within 4-8 years, depending on the size of the home, and nearly all of PolyPlus’ foam customers have reported a significant drop in their heating bills.

PolyPlus uses only the best foam insulation product on the market, a non-formaldehyde foam that is wind resistant, has a built in vapour barrier and poses no threats to the health of homeowners and their families.

Today, PolyPlus Insulators Inc. services 32 contractors in and around Saskatoon, and hasn’t lost a single one in their 15 years of

service, a true testament to the strength of their unique brand of home-grown quality and service. Their gross sales figures are an astonishing 200 times larger than what they were in the company’s first year of life, and the growth shows no signs of slowing. Huziek and his team are preparing to move their operation into a brand new, 4000 square foot warehouse that will house their offices and employees and help them to better serve the needs of their many customers. But despite the continuing growth, Huziek and PolyPlus will never forget where they came from or what has made them into such a certified success: friendly, Saskatchewan-grown service and an unprecedented commitment to the customer. FHS

PHOTO BY BLACK BENCH PRODUCTIONS

Poly Plus Insulation Inc. Jim Huziek Box 4, Martensville 306.222.9332 polyplus@sasktel.net polyplus.ca

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GREAT GARAGES FOR GREAT VEHICLES BROUGHT TO YOU BY

SASKATOON CUSTOM GARAGE AND AUTO CLEARING CHRYSLER DODGE JEEP

INTRODUCING STUDIO FIAT

Saskatoon’s first downtown new car showroom in decades opens this September

BY ALEXANDRA WALLD For 85 years, Auto Clearing Chrysler Jeep Dodge has been a franchise dealer but also sold all makes of pre-owned vehicles and offered service, parts, accessories and provided paint and collision need—all under one roof.

purchase a vehicle or accessories all at our downtown location. There haven’t been vehicles available to view, drive and purchase in a downtown location for decades, so, it’s going to be unique to our city.”

But Auto Clearing will be unveiling a second roof, Studio Fiat, in downtown Saskatoon this September. Located on the main floor at the corner of 2nd Avenue and 23rd Street, the space is going to be very modern in its décor and will have a very European feel to it. People can check out merchandise or some of the latest vehicle technology with the studio’s interactive dashboard.

And if you need service, it’s just a few minutes’ drive to Auto Clearing on Circle Drive, where Fiat-trained technicians with their tools and lifts are busy at work.

“The nice thing is you don’t have to come to our other dealership to do a test drive,” says Paul Savoie, owner and general manager of Auto Clearing Chrysler Jeep Dodge. “You can see, test drive and

Auto Clearing is also opening Express Lane Service in September offering fast oil changes and more with no appointments.

Head to Studio Fiat to check out the Fiat 500. It’s available in three trim levels—a pop, a sport and a lounge—and starts at just $16,995.

“It’s iconic Italian design,” Savoie enthuses. “The Fiat 500 first came out in

Italy in the 1950s and was reintroduced in 2007 in Europe where it was wildly successful. It’s won numerous awards for design, fuel efficiency, innovation and world-class engineering.”

Not only is it sleek and fun to drive, it’s fuel efficient; a tough combination to get right, but somehow Fiat has done it.

For more information, phone 306-653-3428(FIAT) or go online to studiofiat.ca.

Paul Savoie 331 Circle Drive West 306.244.2186 psavoie@autoclearing.com www.autoclearing.fivestardealers.ca

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RECLAIM YOUR SPACE

BY ALEXANDRA WALLD

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he garage is often the place things are stored while they aren’t needed but as the seasons change, it can make things messy and can eventually take away the original purpose of the room. Saskatoon Custom Garage Interiors provides you with tools to reclaim the biggest room in your house and convert it into one of the most used and multifunctional spaces you own.

There are different ways to change your garage but the process usually starts with installing Polyaspartic flooring, which soaks into the concrete, protecting it from water, oil, salt and other stains tracked in by your car. The flooring is better than paint that will chip over time and an epoxy coating that won’t prevent pop-ups in the concrete. Polyaspartic flooring prevents damage caused by extreme heating and cooling and is available in many colours.

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The next step is organization, which comes in the form of Handiwall®, with hooks, baskets and cabinet space.

“We have all sorts of cabinets and storage solutions. We have plywood cabinets, Saskatoon Custom Garage (SCG) cabinets and the popular Cabinets

by Hayley, which are 16 gauge metal cabinets,” says Larry Westby, co-owner of Saskatoon Custom Garage Interiors.

“Once the garage is done and there’s a get-together, they say, “Let’s back the cars out and go to the garage,” it becomes the best multi-functional room for all members of the family,” says Westby.

“The biggest room in the house shouldn’t be wasted, it should be one of the nicest.”

FHS

These solutions will keep most items out of view but easily accessible should you need to use them.

Another way to reclaim unused space is by installing a Breezy Living Screen Solution. The one-piece screen door works independently from the existing door and will keep bugs away while you and your friends and family enjoy an evening.

Saskatoon Custom Garage Interiors Inc. Elaine Westby 3122 A Miller Avenue 306.933.4320 elaine@customgarages.ca www.customgarages.ca

SASKATCHEWAN’S ROOFING EXPERTS

RESIDENTIAL ROOFING SYSTEMS

Locally Owned - Mike & Alison Smith

• Re-Roof & New Homes • Asphalt Shingles • SBS Rubber Modified Laminate Shingle • Cedar • Service Department • Insurance Claims • Highly Trained Staff

Serving Saskatchewan for 17 Years!

89337 WHEATLAND LTRHD:53706 LetterHead

3/8/11

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Saskatoon, Sk. | 306.978.4277 www.wheatlandroofing.com

LOCALLY-OWNED, WORLD-RENOWNED, PURVEYORS OF COMFORT

BY FLR STAFF. PHOTOS BY CHRISTINE ENGEL

W

e have been in your community for over two years and are proud to be locally owned and operating our Aire Serv in Saskatoon and surrounding areas.

Aire Serv Heating and Air Conditioning Inc. is ready to provide you with services, from maximizing your heating and air conditioning equipment with service and repair to indoor air quality products, that will keep you and your family comfortable year round. At Aire Serv we are licenced and knowledgeable air conditioning and heating experts who can provide you with upfront pricing and some of the best written guarantees in the business.

For local air conditioning service and repair, Aire Serv technicians are thoroughly

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background-checked and receive ongoing training to ensure they deliver the best possible air conditioning repairs available.

If your air conditioning system is broken beyond repair or you want to upgrade due to safety or reliability concerns, our skilled technicians can install a new system quickly to ensure maximum comfort in your home. We can help you choose from a wide variety of top-quality air conditioning systems with extended warranties that provide up to 10 years of coverage.

At Aire Serv we know that heating emergencies can occur at any time, which is why our courteous technicians are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to deliver prompt, reliable home heating repair. If you need a heating system replacement, our home comfort designers

will assist you to customize a system that best fits your home comfort needs.

Our clean, professional technicians will set you at ease, and we guarantee to do the work right the first time. We offer extended warranty programs on all of our work. We have flexible financing options so that you can choose the payment method that fits your life, and we offer free estimates on replacements of your equipment. Finally, we service all brands of equipment.

When you invite Aire Serv into your home, you will encounter not only expertlytrained technicians, but also people who are trained to deliver a tailored and unique service experience. This includes treating you and your home with respect. We enjoy our work and it shows!

Every customer’s individual needs are important to us at Aire Serv. Our focus of providing heating, air conditioning and indoor air quality services combined with world-class personnel have made us the first choice of many residential and commercial clients worldwide. Aire Serv Heating and Air Conditioning Inc. was established in 1992 and now has more than 170 franchise locations in the United States and Canada. While Aire Serv provides heating, air conditioning, ventilation and indoor air quality services, the business is built upon the philosophy of success and exceeding the customer’s expectations.

We look forward to welcoming you as a customer and being your preferred source for heating, air conditioning and indoor air quality service in the future.

Air Serv was nationally ranked by Entrepreneur magazine as No. 1 in its category for 2009, and recognized more than 20 times in various categories in the last 10 years, as well as, being featured in other publications such as Success magazine. The company is a subsidiary of the The Dwyer Group Inc., one of the world’s largest franchise-holding companies of franchised service businesses with more than 1,100 franchise businesses in North America and 24 foreign countries.

You can help support Ronald McDonald House Charities by entering the Aire Serv Giveaway Sweepstakes at www.aireserv. com/sweepstakes. FLR

Aire Serv is a proud supporter of Ronald McDonald House Charities. We believe that when you change a child’s life, you change a family’s, which can change a community, and ultimately the world. At Aire Serv Heating and Air Conditioning Inc., we want to be part of that change and part of the solution in improving the lives of children and their families.

Aire Serv John Janzen 323 Centenial Drive South Saskatoon, SK 306.933.2533 john.janzen@mail.aireserv.com www.saskatoon.aireserv.com

Aire Serv is a select dealer of Frigidaire Heating and Cooling Products www.frigidaire.net

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Natural Stone, Architectural Stone Veneer, Clay Brick, Outdoor Products, Glass Block, Tools and Supplies for Installation.

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Visit an I-XL showroom and Visit an I-XL and Imagine the showroom Possibilities.

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www.ixlmasonry.com www.ixlmasonry.com www.ixlmasonry.com

EXPERTAdvice HOMES

Custom Garages

Larry Westby

Saskatoon Custom Garage Interiors Inc. Elaine Westby 3122 A Miller Avenue 306.933.4320 elaine@customgarages.ca www.customgarages.ca When reclaiming the space in your garage, which is really the biggest room of your house, it’s important to keep storage and organization in mind. The garage often becomes cluttered with random objects throughout the different seasons and eventually becomes a space for stuff rather than your vehicle. Customizing your garage to fit your specific needs will not only keep things organized but will help you convert the space into a multi-functional room you will use, too.

The first step to keeping things clean and tidy is eliminating the mess caused by salt, gas and oil stains by installing Polyaspartic flooring. Different than other flooring options, this one-time application will bond into the concrete and protect it from deterioration caused by freezing. It’s available in a variety of colours and can be

walked on only six hours after installation and driven on in just 24 hours.

One of the biggest factors in keeping your garage continually organized is by incorporating storage options into the design of the room. If you have plenty of smaller items that you will need to access on a regular basis, regain square footage by keeping them hidden behind cabinet doors.

With seasonal items, try to make use of the wasted space above eye level by using highloft storage systems to keep certain things until you will need them, or Handiwall PVC with assortment of hooks, baskets and shelving.

Whether you have a need for modular, plywood cabinets or 16 gauge steel, you should be able to find a system that will work with your room, the space you have and your budget.

Storage systems, including cabinets or overhead racks, can easily be installed by the determined Do-It-Yourselfer with minimal instruction or previous knowledge.

If you prefer having the systems installed

by experts, it can—and should be—done quickly at a time that is convenient for you.

Another great way to turn your garage into a recreational space for both you and your family to make use of is to convert the area into a three-season room. You can achieve this by installing a one-piece screen door behind your existing overhead garage door, like one of the products available from Breezy Living Screen Solutions. Completely independent of the current door, the Breezy Living system can be pulled into place by two small straps and has a retractable man door that will let you out without letting the bugs in. Factors that would usually force you inside, like bugs or cooler temperatures, will become a thing of the past. Available in virtually any size, the system is perfect for our variable climate.

No matter what you’re looking for or the square-footage you have to work with, there are things you can incorporate into your garage to keep it tidy. Taking back the biggest room of your house is just a few steps away and can turn one of the messiest, most frustrating spaces into the most organized, multi-functional rooms you and your loved ones can enjoy. FHS

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EXPERTAdvice Fact: All furnaces should be checked and inspected every fall.

FURNACES

Furnace maintenance and checkups should be a part of every homeowner’s ‘to do’ list when preparing for cooler climates and the winter months. As Saskatchewan winters are long and cold, having your furnace checked during the fall is a proactive way to ensure any issues are caught and fixed with little to no down time. Considering the safety aspects, homeowners should entrust their inspections to reliable and certified companies with technicians that have sufficient knowledge in furnace repair, maintenance, replacements and tune-ups. With furnaces differing in every house regarding their make, model and years of use, it is important your furnace technician has the expertise and training to handle your home’s specific system.

Trusted furnace experts know what to look for, and can give your furnace a thorough inspection and cleaning to ensure it is functioning at maximum efficiency.

Furnace maintenance 101

McGill’s Mechanical Saskatoon 502 Avenue M South Saskatoon, SK S7M 2K9 Phone: 664-3050 Fax: 664-3070 helpdesk@mcgillsmechanical.com New federal and provincial rebate program in effect until March 31, 2012 on replacement furnaces which are 95 per cent efficient or higher. Homeowners are eligible to receive $1,440 in rebates between the provincial and federal grants. McGill’s is a Sask Energy Network Member and we have Sask Energy Financing available at prime +2%.

Most furnaces require only a small amount of upkeep and maintenance, especially in newer homes with the latest systems. For most warm air furnaces, it is important to change the filter depending on the model, as well as your family’s allergy sensitivity or if you have pets. Homes with cats and dogs, and people with allergies, will need to change their filters more frequently as most filters can last anywhere from one to three months minimum. If you are unsure, check the information that came with your furnace or call an expert furnace technician. Regular maintenance and checkups on your furnace can usually prevent any major malfunctions, prolonging the life of your system. Regular inspections will also allow your technician to ensure your furnace is running at maximum efficiency, cutting down on unnecessarily high heating bills.

Out with the old If your furnace has crashed or you arelooking to upgrade your dated system, choosing an energy star rated furnace with efficient heating capabilities is a must. Choosing the right furnace can be

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easy with the help of trained technicians who can recommend a replacement that is best for your in home heating needs.

Furnaces with a high AFUE rating are recommended for heating efficiency and environmental friendliness. A higher rating indicates a larger percentage of fuel being utilized to heat your home, allowing for maximum efficiency while leaving the least amount of environmental damage.

When updating your old system, having an experienced technician assess your heating needs, home environment and current system setup will allow for the best choice in a replacement furnace.

McGill’s Mechanical and Carrier Brand For further information regarding your heating system, call the furnace experts at McGill’s Mechanical for any maintenance, replacements, or installation questions or concerns. Technicians at McGill’s can also help you with any other heating units including your home fireplace or garage heaters. McGill’s can repair all furnace makes and models, regardless of usage and condition. McGill’s is also Saskatoon’s official dealer of Carrier products and can answer any question you might have regarding the brand’s makes and models.

Visit their website: www.mcgillsmechanical.com or for more information on Carrier products visit: www.residential.carrier.com

PACIFIC HOME PRODUCTS Saskatoon’s only Certified Pella Contractor with 25 years of outstanding sales and installations of Pella windows and doors.

Pacific Home Products can show you the difference Pella products can make with multiple glazing options, wood grain fibreglass doors, between the glass blinds and other exclusive Pella features.

Proudly installing Pella’s most innovative windows and doors ever.

SHOWROOM LOCATED AT 1-501-45TH ST. W. SASKATOON 244 2800

FineLifestyles SASKATOON

FALL 2011 || VOLUME 3, ISSUE 3

Sasktoon’s Own

In Her Beverly Hills Mansion

CHEF MICHAEL SMITH Q&A

Plus Recipes!

SOUTH SASK AUTO MALL FALL FASHION DINING GUIDE BUSINESS

SPECIAL: OIL AND GAS PROFILE MUCH, MUCH MORE!

BEST of the BEST Businesses ENTERTAINMENT SCHEDULE

COMING SOON Fine Lifestyles Saskatoon editor Thom Barker up close and personal with Shannon Tweed and family featuring stunning photos by Saskatoon's Heather Fritz in and around Shannon's Beverly Hills mansion!

FineLifestyles FineLifestyles FineLifestyles FineLifestyles REGINA

REGINA

SASKATOON

SASKATOON

A MESSAGE FROM HER WORSHIP SHERYL SPENCE MAYOR OF WARMAN

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arman... brant and used to nity located minutes

beautiful, friendly, safe, vidiverse. Just a few of the words describe this wonderful communorth of Saskatoon on Highway 11.

This progressive community continues to grow and attract numerous new residents. Over the past fifteen years Warman’s population has more than doubled. With a population of over 6,500, Warman will change to city status in 2012.

New residents, families and businesses alike have been attracted to Warman due to its easy access to Saskatoon, varied community services and first rate development. Warman has transitioned into a modern, fully-serviced community that boasts many amenities with the benefits of Saskatoon just minutes away.

The green space and parks, water-features and extensive walking paths connect neighbourhoods and as a result connect the community as a whole. Warman is also home to extensive professional medical services such as a brand new medical clinic, dental clinic, chiropractors and a new optometrist office opening in fall 2011. These essential services are utilized by many Warman and regional residents alike.

Warman works hard at developing partnerships with community groups, businesses, schools, government, and other communities.

As we continue to think on a regional basis we find ourselves looking at a much bigger picture and accomplishing much larger goals. One current partnership has been invaluable in building the Warman

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PHOTO BY SANDY LOCKHART PHOTOGRAPHY

Sports and Cultural Village that will be home to a 1,300 seat arena, multi-purpose fields, fitness center, restaurant and leased space.

proud of the community we call home. We invite you to come by for a visit and see why we call this our home—our life. FHS

Warman’s new Middle Years School will be attached to the building creating a joint-use facility. Students will benefit tremendously from the use of this facility and the Town will benefit from the joint-use of the Middle Years School theatre and public library.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF Town of Warman, (306) 933-2133 www.warman.ca

Warman is also very proud of the new 18hole championship golf course that opened in April 2011. The Legends golf course is one of the finest courses in the province and has had a very busy first season, a testament to the spectacular course that it is. The view from The Legends licensed dining room and lounge, which is open to the public, is breath-taking while offering an array of mouth-watering choices to its diners.

As Warman looks ahead to future opportunities, it strives to keep focus on the community we have become; beautiful, friendly, safe, vibrant and diverse. Warman is growing and prospering and we are very

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IN WARMAN, A GOOD PLUMBER IS EASY TO FIND

BY TAMMY CEASER. PHOTOS BY LISA LANDRIE

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I

t can be said, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that those in possession of a good plumber’s phone number can consider themselves fortunate. The people of Warman can be considered members of that group with the services being provided by Rock Solid Plumbing and Heating Ltd. It is not every day that a consummate professional such as Roch Monette chooses to settle down in a small town, and dedicate himself to his community. With over 25 years of experience in the trade, working on everything from high rises in Toronto to utilitors (above ground sewage and water systems) in the Arctic, the owner and operator of this small business has seen it all, and most importantly can handle it.

Originally from Saskatchewan, Roch and his wife Karen decided to move back to Roch’s home province in 2001, originally settling in Saskatoon. But, feeling the pull of a quieter lifestyle, and a longing for space to raise their two sons, they made the

move to Warman, and haven’t looked back.

The emphasis small towns place on family life is what appealed to the Monette family. Space for recreation, a slower pace, and the familial nature of the small community is what has bought them along with countless others to the sleepy hollow just north of Saskatoon. Family is also what brought about the creation of his business.

Roch, who worked for a large industrial piping company was working one week in, one week out, and being away from the family had taken its toll. So, four years ago when his sons asked him to stay closer to home, and with the idea of starting his own business already percolating in his mind, Monette decided to take the plunge and go into business for himself.

What he decided to create was a plumbing and heating company focusing on the town that he now called home. Whereas plumbers from the city charge out of area fees, are further away, and, in some cases, do not provide the same level of service, Roch created Rock Solid Plumbing and

Heating Ltd. to fill in a gap. By being a part of the community, by caring about the people and the products that he installs, refurbishes, and repairs, Monette can hold his head high in the tight-knit community.

Rock Solid offers a variety of services such as furnace repairs, replacement; air conditioning installs; boiler heating systems; and home buyer evaluations related to his trade. Water heater repair and replacement, gas fireplace and BBQ line installation are also available along with any other gas fitting needs you may have.

Monette and his team are earning a solid reputation for the services they provide.

With free home estimates, an exemplary work standard and dedication to getting things done once and done right, Rock Solid Plumbing and Heating Ltd. has brought the knowledge and expertise of years of experience to the small town of Warman. It is because of this varied experience that Rock Solid can take on so many different types of projects. Working

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primarily in short-term projects, the past three years has shown Warman residents what it is that Rock Solid can accomplish.

“We have required the services of a plumber for a furnace problem and an air conditioner failure in the two years since moving to Warman,” say clients Bruce and Claire Kosolofski. “In an attempt to seek a local contractor, we called Rock Solid Plumbing. The personal, prompt service that we received from Roch Monette has restored our belief in the word “service.” When Roch told us that he would be there at 12 noon, he arrived within min-

e who knows The mark of a pro is someon easy, takes look it kes ma g, what he’s doin behind it. This pride in his work and stands ting Ltd. is Rock Solid Plumbing & Hea ional and outI found out just how profess hard way after standing Rock Solid is the the installation another company bungled er unit in my wat hot and of a new furnace home. d the wrong The other company had installe y did a very The e. hom my BTU furnace for hot water The s. pipe ting nec con sloppy job pite my Des off. tank would routinely shut nally. ssio rofe unp ted concerns, I was trea

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utes. When he told us he would install the air conditioner on Friday, it was installed.

Roch’s personal touch and honesty is sincere, so there is no doubt who is installing our new furnace and water heater. We are fortunate to have this quality contractor in Warman. Rock Solid’s motto, “Done once, done right,” is right on the money.”

Rock Solid Plumbing and Heating Ltd. operates with a mentality shared by its owner: to offer quality over all else. It is the simplicity of “Done once, done right” that Monette believes will set him apart with his customers. Whereas others may cut corners and costs to attract customers,

no one can compare to the standard and care that Rock Solid offers its customers.

“We are not looking to compete for prices, we are looking to compete in level of service and reliability,” Monette says. “I stand by every job I complete.” And the tight-knit community of Warman, he says, is where this should mean the most. “I see the people I do work for every day around town. We are part of the same community and have been for three years now.”

There has always been a notion of neighbours helping neighbours in small town life. While on the outskirts of the city, with Rock Solid Plumbing and Heating

g them and hirThe best thing I did was firin ting Ltd. Hea & bing ing Rock Solid Plum bad situation Roch Monette turned a fair price, he a on around. After settling and started job d dar stan removed the sub time, he the half in and t nea , over. Friendly and a ace furn had installed the proper BTU ks. wor t tha quality hot water heater ting is just Rock Solid Plumbing and Hea that—ROCK SOLID. Andy D.

Ltd. there to provide essential services to Warman residents, the small town is stepping out of Saskatoon’s shadow.

And as the town grows, so will the reputation of Rock Solid Plumbing. FHS Rock Solid Plumbing & Heating LTD. 307 Brookside Court Warman, SK S0K 0A1 Phone: (306) 260-2449 Fax: (306) 931-2011 www.rocksolidplumbing.ca

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