FALL 2014 | VOLUME 5 ISSUE 3
SASKATOON
Smart Living with
SAMTRON HOMES
MEREDITH HERON DEFINES STYLE SINKING IN: MODERN SINKS FOR THE KITCHEN AND BATH HOME MAINTENANCE MUSTS FineHomes
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WESTERN
CARPET ONE
®
610 Cynthia Street • 306.665.6640 www.westerncarpetonesaskatoon.com Stores Hours: M-F 8:30am - 5:30pm • Sat - 9am-5pm Saskatoon & Region Home Builders Association, Inc.
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SASKATOON
FineHomes FIRST WORD SASKATOON
With Fine Homes editor ERIN LEGG
A
lbert Camus said, “Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower.” I am always hesitant to bid farewell to summer, but I do believe there is something enchanting about the autumn season — particularly watching the leaves turn colour. What is it you like best about this time of year? Just in time for the weather change, we list some essential home maintenance musts for the cooler months ahead. And, to provide inspiration as we warm up our fireplaces, we review different mantle options. Home automation technology. Sustainable living design. Catchy words, but Samtron Homes knows how to turn these concepts into something concrete. This issue’s cover story profiles this innovative Saskatoonbased company owned by certified professional home builder Jeff Cao. Have you been stuck to find inspiration for your home’s décor? Meredith Heron provides hints on how to find your style. Ken Beattie gives some valuable fall gardening tips, and our review of different sink trends for the kitchen and bath will leave you something to plan for your winter renovation project.
finelifestyles.ca FALL 2014 Volume 5, Issue 3 Editor Erin Legg erinl@finelifestyles.ca Art Direction Amber Moon (Senior), Lisa Redden (Associate) Design Natasha Burkholder Staff Writers Courtney Tait, Henny Buffinga, Melanie Furlong, Rebecca Henderson, Tobie Hainstock, Tonya Lambert, Tori Stafford, Trina Annand Cover Photography Lisa Landrie www.lisalandrie.com Photography Lisa Landrie, Heather Fritz, Images by Gillies, Kerri Froese Photography, Megan Antoniuk Photography, Neek Photography Contributing Writers Apolline Lucyk, Barbara Shawcross, Candace M. Fox, Karen Cowan, Ken Beattie, Kim Mannix Vermette, Matthew Stone, Meredith Heron, Rebecca Schneidereit Distribution & Subscriptions kellym@finelifestyles.ca
Enjoy the changing of season!
Erin SALES MANAGER
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Fine Homes Saskatoon is published by the Group of Fine Magazines Ltd. Fine Magazines is independently owned. Opinions expressed by Fine Magazines are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher or advertisers. Fine Magazines does not assume liability for content.
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Tracy Good 306.371.6995 tracyg@finelifestyles.ca
When your needs are beyond the standard... When you demand more than the status quo...
You need the expertise to guide you through your real estate endeavor.
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127 Roy Crescent (show home)
1417 and 1419 Main Street (finished wi exceptional quality; landscaping and driveway done; ready to move in!)
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510 Evergreen Blvd. (high-quality with affordable price; legal suite potential in basement; ready to move in!) 206 Glacial Shores Cove (close to park and future school; in a quiet bay location!) 563 Marlatte Lane (close to park with affordable price)
651 Hastings Crescent (best location; back to wetland; build your dream hom here!)
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Townhouse Project (design stage)
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CONTENTS HOMES & PROPERTIES ...................... 8 INNER BEAUTY ..................................30 DREAM KITCHENS .............................50 SPECIAL FEATURE: HOME SPAS ......................................... 57 BED & BATH ........................................64 IMPROVEMENTS & RENOVATIONS ...................................68 OUTDOOR LIVING & LANDSCAPES .................................84 SEASONAL TRENDS .........................88 REALTOR DIRECTORY......................95 SASKATOON SERVICES DIRECTORY .........................................97
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i tc h e n and b a t h ro o m renovations are some of the most valuable and rewarding projects homeowners choose Meredith Heron: to take on. These renovations also have Defining Your Style .................................30 a plethora of choices that become Sinking In: Modern Sinks for permanent fixtures in a home and are Kitchen & Bath ..........................................50 used for decades. Sinks are one of the fixtures that get the most wear and tear Home Maintenance Musts ....................68 in a home. Whether in a bathroom or kitchen, a sink can be much more than a vessel for water. COVER: Smart Living with Samtron Homes .......................................24
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fixture has been brought into the moder era through use of colour, materials an even texture. Vessel sinks are still ver popular in the bath; the raised basin emit a spa feel to any bath. Neo-Metro’s Eb Concept sink provides an ultra moder feel by combining a stainless steel sin with backlit resin in a wide variety o colours combining a nightlight an chromatheraphy effects. Whether in th kitchen or bath, bigger is better for sink Long trough sinks are very popular for e suites and deep sinks are key for soakin
Five Reasons to Install Phantom Retractable Screens Let in fresh air and keep out insects Installing Phantom Retractable Screens on your home allows you to open up your living space without the nuisance of insects. Retract your screen for an unobstructed view Phantom Screens don’t diminish the view or aesthetics of your doorway, allowing you to preserve the look and design of your home. Let more natural daylight into your home when desired Phantom Screens appear transparent, allowing a clear view from the inside out.
Visit www.saskscreens.ca to see a full list of our products.
Enjoy the convenience of a professional installation Phantom Screens installers help homeowners to find screen solutions that match the design and size requirements of the openings they want to screen. Phantom Screens are manufactured right here in Canada Custom Screen Installations is proud to be the authorized Phantom Screen Distributor serving Saskatchewan homeowners and builders since 1995.
Custom Screen Installations Saskatoon
306.934.8959
customscreens@sasktel.net
Simply AppeAling:
Condo Life By Erin Legg
It’s a way of life for a growing number of homeowners: condo living. The lifestyle afforded by what some may refer to as “simplified” living has great appeal. Condo owners enjoy the same standard of luxury as homeowners — with a bit more flexibility. 8
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for revenue, too, with the financial advantages to be had by renting to tenants. Condo life is also perfect for families, with spacious properties that rival the square footage of detached houses—minus the headache of caring for exterior spaces. Within the City of Saskatoon a variety of condominiums are available for the discerning homebuyer. The downtown area boasts studio space that draws out the character of luxury loft living. This includes converted warehouses or commercial spaces that incorporate modern design elements of exposed bricks, wooden beams and industrial floors. Pre-construction condominiums are great for buyers who want to select every finishing to their own standards instead of renovating an existing space. Buyers can work with developers and designers to create a modern, luxurious home. For buyers who are not shy of renovations or who are seeking a specific area in which to purchase their condo, existing complexes offer tons of space and amenities, such as fitness facilities, pools and heated parking.
Regardless of purchasing a pre-construction or an existing condo, there are certain things that are essential to luxury condo life — as well as adding to future resale value. Beautiful views and natural light cannot be beat. In fact, many housing studies reflect that this is more essential to resale value than an outdoor space. Also, seek condos with higher ceilings, or discuss this with the builder and get it incorporated into the plans if possible. “Simplified” luxurious living is not just about square footage, but cubic footage. Never underestimate the value of hiring an architect or designer to help with your space. This helps with not only the “artistic” finishing components, but with practical floor layouts. For anyone in search of a condo to call home, utilizing a realtor with experience with condominiums takes a lot of the guesswork out of the process. These experts know others in the field who can help the process go smoothly — for example, real estate lawyers who can negotiate occupancy fees — and know how to get you exactly what you need out of the property, especially when it comes to preconstruction units.
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n ever increasing trend shows people splitting time between two or more places. With today’s evolving workplace employees are able to enjoy greater ease with work schedules and locations. Think: telecommuting employees can stay on their career path while owning a condo in Saskatoon and another elsewhere. Retirees enjoy condo living for the same reason. By splitting time between two or more places, retired condo owners retain the financial advantages of property ownership without the hassle of yard work or home maintenance schedules. Investing in a condominium is great
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Advice and Tips on Buying a Condo
Jessica Retzleff Mobile Mortgage Specialist with Affinity Credit Union
approval limit, ensure that it matches not only your financial limits but also your personal standards before you make an offer. You’ll want to make sure that the condo complex is in a good physical, financial and legal condition.
uying a condo is often a great first step to get onto the property ladder. But, no matter what type of property you’re interested in purchasing, the first thing to figure out is what you can afford.
You won’t need a special or specific type of mortgage to purchase a condo. You can choose from a number of mortgage types including a fixed option, where the mortgage rate and repayment you make each month remains constant; an open option, which offers flexible repayment terms; or a variable option, which has a fluctuating repayment rate. You may also be eligible to take out a home equity line of credit which provides a loan using your home as collateral. Your mortgage specialist will let you know what options are available to you based on your unique financial situation.
Your mortgage specialist will go through a pre-approval with you so you get an idea of how much you may be able to borrow in order to purchase a condo. The pre-approval will take into consideration the mortgage payment, property taxes, condo fees and utilities, if necessary. Once you find a condo that’s within your pre-
When purchasing a condo, the same general rules apply as with every home purchase: you’ll need enough cash for a down payment and closing costs and you’ll also need to insure your unit. However, when purchasing a condo, there are other factors to consider. Find out what the condo fees cover and ask to review
Saskatoon and Area 306.281.4342 jessica.retzleff@affinitycu.ca
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the financial statements of the condo corporation. You’ll want to ensure that the reserve funds available are reflective of the age of the property since these funds are used for major repairs to the complex. If the condo is a new build, find out what type of warranty it has. It’s also a good idea to check on any restrictions the complex may have regarding renting out your unit or having pets. It’s important to understand what it means to own a condo unit and to ensure that you access all necessary documents before you sign on the dotted line. People choose to purchase condos for many different reasons: you may be a first-time home buyer getting into the market; you may be downsizing as you enter a new phase in your life; or you may want a condo as an investment property. Whatever the reason, there are loads of benefits to buying a condo. As the reasons for choosing a condo differ, so will the type of mortgage. Contact an Affinity Mortgage Specialist today — we’re here to help you determine the right product to suit your needs.
Staged
to Sell
Buying or selling, I strive to provide my clients with comprehensive coverage. • • • • • • •
Direct access to new listings for buyers Tranquilli-T insurance Professional photographs for your listings Coverage on social media Professional home staging consult Strong online presence Dedicated service
Angela Porrelli | RE/MAX Saskatoon | 306.291.4664 | angporrelli@gmail.com FineHomes
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Redefining HomeowneRsHip:
The Meadows where Craftsman & Country Meet By Trina Annand Photos Courtesy of Arbutus Properties
F
inding the perfect home for your family can often result in an epic, and sometimes frustrating, journey. A home should be an oasis from the stress of modern life, not the source of it. This is why the experts at Arbutus Properties are creating a different kind of community in South East Saskatoon. At The Meadows, Arbutus’ latest master-planned community, residents will find a lush, park-like setting featuring homes filled with character and luxurious finishes in a family-friendly environment where neighbours become lifelong friends. Carefully planned inside and out, The Meadows promises to raise the bar for home building in Saskatoon. With extensive experience building both residential and commercial spaces, clients can rest assured they are getting the very best quality home with Arbutus. The community perfectly marries timeless style with modern luxury. “I think The Meadows is by far the best community to raise a family in Saskatoon. The community is designed so you can spend time with your family walking, biking, enjoying a barbecue with your neighbours or drinking your early morning coffee on your front porch,” notes Kim MacDonald of Arbutus.
The beauty of a planned community is it allows residents to choose whatever fits their lifestyle, whether it is a singlefamily home of any size, a townhouse or a condo. Featuring a park-style entrance that creates a buffer between this community and others, green space is key in the development, with numerous parks, playgrounds, walking paths and sports fields planned, as well as large lot sizes for each home. The Meadows lives up to its name with an almost rural, small community feel. Surrounded by Hyde Wetlands Park, the community is the perfect place for those with an active lifestyle. Featuring a variety of housing options, The Meadows offers something for everyone with unique home and floor plans to suit a client’s specific needs. A perfect first home, The Morris is an ideal place to start a family, complete with desirable high-end finishes. These childfriendly homes are close to new schools and community recreation areas. With a vast variety of home plans at all price points, The Meadows avoids the cookiecutter look of newer developments: every home is unique, courtesy of community design mandates. At Sterling Gate, residents can enjoy the security of a gated community and the
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family feel of The Meadows at the same time. The Harvest promises to provide the most luxurious condominiums in the city, offering all the enjoyment of a home of your own, without the need for the doldrums of daily maintenance — it’s the perfect setting for elegant living. An added benefit of living at The Meadows is an onsite warranty specialist who quickly and expertly attends to any issues that may come up with a home, ensuring client care goes far beyond the building process. The homes in The Meadows feature architecture inspired by the latest building trends, reviving the beauty of the arts and crafts movement in their homes. Utilizing stucco and cement fibreboard, the homes harken back to the fine craftsmanship from a century ago. Attention to detail is one of Arbutus’ primary concerns, and as a result the company includes numerous high-end features as part of their standard home package: high ceilings, oversized windows, custom millwork, hardwood floors, upgraded fixtures and even an onstaff interior design consultant for finish and colour assistance. Using the latest in home building features allows Arbutus to create homes with timeless charm and energy efficient results. Buying a new home also allows clients a superb level of customization from colours to layout. A home can become a perfectly unique representation of the owner’s lifestyle. Clients of Arbutus are astounded by the quality of service and product they receive. The company is not a faceless
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ABOVE L-R Cheryl Thayer, Sales, Annabel Richer, Interior Design Consultant, Kim MacDonald, Sales LOWER Eric Glyn-Jones, Warranty
corporate entity, but a family of highly trained professionals dedicated to helping clients create their dream homes. “To us, The Meadows feels like a completely new concept for a Saskatoon neighbourhood. It is easy to fall in love with an Arbutus home. The attention to detail, the fine craftsman architecture and enviable layouts are some of the many reasons we chose an Arbutus home. But what stood out to us the most was the customer service and care the sales team provided from day one. Arbutus offers impeccable quality and value to the Saskatoon housing market. We are so grateful we’ve had the opportunity to work with such a wonderful builder in making our dream home a reality,” remarks resident Ivana Camdzic. With an expansive 420 acres, The Meadows will have all the amenities city
dwellers have come to expect, with banks, stores, schools and medical centres. The commercial opportunities in the 110acre space allows business owners a unique opportunity to live where they work. Imagine being able to bike or walk to work without the chaos of fighting traffic! The combination of retail and light industrial space allows for a variety of business options in The Meadows. Offering unique opportunities for their residents is another way Arbutus puts the client first; building superb homes is just one component of the benefits to living in an Arbutus community. “We fell in love with a show home from Arbutus and found that dealing with the company was painless. They take your comments seriously and try to solve any issues as soon as possible. The Arbutus
staff has been very pleasant and helpful. They have built a quality home with details that make it stand out from other homes being built. We will certainly look into other Arbutus homes if we decide to make a change, but we are very happy here,” notes clients Marlene Heinrichs and Lawrence Skoworodko. When you’re looking for more than a house, call the experts at Arbutus who know how to make not only a fantastic home, but a thriving community.
The Meadows by Arbutus 306.955.1554 Corner of Rosewood Gate N and Taylor St E, Saskatoon meadowsliving.ca
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Home is Where the Heart Is
Krista Martens Architectural Technologist, A. Sc. T. LEED Green Associate
Beyond Measure Design Inc. 306.974.3955 info@beyondmeasuredesign.ca www.beyondmeasuredesign.ca
W
e’ve all heard the phrase: home is where the heart is. Homes come in all shapes and sizes to fit every person’s individual needs. Home StyleS to CHooSe From The majority of new homes constructed or sought out these days fall into the singlefamily home category. For many people the attraction of having a yard with space is a key driver in making the decision to buy or build a single-family home. Street town homes have become more prominent in our Saskatoon neighbourhoods. They are often in a specific area where the goal is to increase
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the density of a particular neighbourhood. They usually have the same amenities as a single family home, but in less quantity. The design of these homes is often the same as some small, two-story single family homes, but the neighbours are in closer proximity.
to guests (bedrooms, laundry spaces and the master suite). Make sure you evaluate how well these spaces work together. Are they in logical combinations? Do you feel any of these spaces are forgotten? How do the rooms flow together? Are there any strange combinations?
You also have condominiums to consider. Perhaps you are a person who travels extensively and doesn’t want to be burdened with yard work when you are home. Perhaps your budget is such that these are the most reasonable options in your price range.
Storage SpaCe: Many people don’t realize how many items they accumulate, and unless you’re a yearly purger you may find yourself needing a lot of storage space. Does the home have broom and linen closets? Will they provide enough for your needs? Do you need more storage space than what is designed for?
Either way you look at it, each option offers a vast number of choices. Each type should be evaluated on the same criteria to help you make the decision that is best for your lifestyle. evaluatIon CrIterIa room FloW: An important key in your decision no matter the type of home you choose. The home can be broken down into two main categories: public and private spaces. Public being those spaces everyone will see or use when they visit (living room, dining room, kitchen and bathrooms). Private spaces being those areas that are often off limits
natural lIgHt: For me, no matter what home style you choose, natural light will make or break a space. Natural light can go a long way to reducing your stress and increasing your happiness. Observe the way light fills the rooms. Does one area seem too dark at different times of the day? What type of views do you have? Can other people see into your space? Which direction are the majority of windows facing? If you’re in the market for a new home, make sure you evaluate all your options before ruling any one of them out. You may be surprised by what you find!
BETTER
OUTDOOR
LIVING
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306.761.1801 | Toll Free 1.877.449.5106 www.suncoastenclosures.com | don@suncoastenclosures.com
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Elise Selby and Mark Girardin, owners of Eco Innovative Illumination
Light Up YoUr Life with eco Light Up Your Life innovative iLLUmination WITH ECO INNOVATIVE ILLUMINATION By Matthew Stone Photos IMageS by gIllIeS
E
By Matthew Stone Photos Images By Gillies
co Innovative Illumination Ltd. Is a Saskatchewan corporation that was establishedIllumination to research and develop co Innovative Ltd. new line of LED lighting. These Isa aunique Saskatchewan corporation products were developed in Canada that researchharsh and was are established designed to to withstand and develop a unique new line Eco Canadian weather conditions. Today, InnovativeThese Illumination Ltd. is were owned and of LED lighting. products by four Bob and developedoperated in Canada andshareholders: are designed Joan Martodam, Elise Selby and Mark to withstand harsh Canadian weather Girardin. Together, they continue to find conditions. moreToday, and moreEco uses Innovative for their excellent products, the and company shows no Illumination Ltd. is and owned operated sign of slowing down. by four shareholders: Bob and Joan
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Martodam, Elise Selby and Mark Girardin. Together, they continue to find more and more uses for their excellent products,
“If you are tired of putting up and taking down your traditional stringed Christmas our House-Brite LEDssign offerof andlights, the then company shows no a permanent solution to your problem. slowing down. They look great, they work great, and best of all, they will save you in energy costs,” “If you tired of putting up and taking saysare Mark Girardin.
down your traditional stringed Christmas That last point cannot be overlooked. Eco lights, then our House-Brite LEDs offer Innovative Illumination LED modules are a permanent to your problem. a 12-voltsolution system that consumes only They 1.4 compared to traditional lookwatts/foot, great, theyaswork great, and best of all, Christmas lights that can use up to 25 they will save you in energy costs,” says watts/bulb. This will translate to at least Mark Girardin. That last point cannot be overlooked. Eco Innovative Illumination LED modules are
80 per cent savings off your energy bill. After one easy installation, they areaup12-volt there permanently, neatly only 1.4 system thattucked consumes under your eavestroughs. The product watts/foot, as compared to traditional is durable, water-resistant, and it is UVChristmas that can use stable, so it willlights not fade or yellow withup to 25 thewatts/bulb. sun. However, youwill might be asking This translate to at least yourself, “What happens when the light 80 per cent savings off your energy bill. burns out?”
After one easy installation, they are up
“The easy answer is they won’t,” saysneatly Elise under there permanently, tucked Selby. “The LED modules are designed to your eavestroughs. The product is durable, withstand the harshest temperature and water-resistant, it is UV-stable, conditions. Our LED and modules are tested so it will
not fade or yellow with the sun. However, you might be asking yourself, “What happens when the light burns out?”
ABOVE Elise Selby and Mark Girardin, owners of Eco Innovative Illumination.
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RIGHT Eco Innovative Illumination LED modules translate to approximately RIGHT Eco Innovative Illumination LED50 to 60
thousand hours of use, or about seven years
modules translate to approximately 50 to without flipping the60 ‘off switch.’ RIGHT Illumination LED thousand hours of use,Eco or Innovative about seven years RIGHT Eco Innovative Illumination LED modules translate to approximately 50 to 60 modules translate approximately 50 to 60 without flipping the ‘off seven switch.’ thousand hours oftouse, or about years thousand hours of use, or about years without flipping theseven ‘off switch.’ without flipping the ‘off switch.’
“The easy answer they won’t,” says Elisetranslates Selby. to andis quality controlled, which “The LED modules are designed thehours approximately 50 to withstand 60 thousand of use, or about seven years without harshest temperature and conditions. Our LED and quality controlled, which translates to and qualitythe controlled, which”translates to flipping ‘off switch.’ modules are tested and quality controlled, which approximately 50 to 60 thousand hours approximately 50 to 60 thousand hours of use, or about 50 seven years without translates to approximately to 60 thousand ofIfuse, about seven years without thator doesn’t reassure, this will: the flipping the ‘off switch.’ ” flipping the ‘off switch.’ ”years without housing systems by Eco hours of use, or about sevenmanufactured Illumination Ltd.will: come If Innovative that doesn’t reassure, this thewith a flipping the ‘off switch.’ ” If that doesn’t reassure, this will: the housing systems manufactured by have Eco very 10-year warranty, though they housing systems manufactured by Eco
Innovative Illumination Ltd. come with a are rarely been needed. Thethe LEDhousing modules If that doesn’t reassure, this will: Innovative Illumination Ltd. come with a 10-year warranty, though they haveput very also very easy to pop off and back in 10-year warranty,by though they have very systems manufactured Eco Innovative rarely been needed. The LED modules are want should you needThe to. However, if you rarely been needed. LED modules are Illumination Ltd. come with a 10-year warranty, also very easy to pop off and put back in to very switch Christmas theme, also easytotoa pop off and put backyou in can you need to. However, if you want though they should have very rarely been needed. The of keepyou that shaky ladder inif you the want corner should need to. However, to switch to a Christmas theme, you can switch to very a Christmas theme, you can the garage. Innovative Illumination’s LED modulesto are also easy to popcorner off and keep that shakyEco ladder in the of that shaky ladder in with the corner of 25 lighting system comes more than put back in keep should to. However, if the garage.you Eco need Innovative Illumination’s thepre-set garage.colour-changing Eco Innovative Illumination’s modes, including lighting system comes with more than 25 you want to lighting switchsystem to a Christmas theme, you comes with more than 25 Christmas themes, with several flashing pre-set colour-changing modes, including colour-changing including can keep thatpre-set shaky ladder inwith themodes, corner of theoffers Christmas themes, several and fading options. The flashing LEDs themes, with several flashing and fadingcolour-changing options. The LEDs offers with garage. Eco Christmas Innovative Illumination’s lighting endless capabilities and fading options. The LEDs offers endless colour-changing capabilities with the operation of a remote control. system comes withsimple more than 25 pre-set colourendless colour-changing capabilities with the simple operation of a remote control. the simple operation of a remotethemes, control. changing modes, including Christmas You should know that house lighting shouldand know that house lighting with several You flashing fading options. The is certainly not all can do. A trip to You should know thatyou house lighting is certainly not all you can do. A trip to is Eco certainly not all you can do. A trip website to Innovative Illumination’s LEDs offers endless colour-changing capabilities Eco Innovative Illumination’s website Eco Innovative Illumination’s website reveals a whole lot of other uses for these with the simple operation of remote control. reveals a whole lotaof other uses for these reveals a whole lot ofLED otherlights uses foron these amazing lights. RVs are amazing lights. LED lights on RVs are
amazing lights. LED lights on RVs are popular, aslighting is lighting for is decking, signage popular, as is for decking, signage You should know that house lighting certainly popular, as is lighting for decking, signage and commercial properties such as hotels and commercial properties such as hotels not all you can do. A trip to Eco Innovative and commercial properties such as hotels and andand industrial applications. andbars, bars, industrial applications. bars, and industrial applications. Illumination’sand website reveals a this whole lot of is The great thing about product is The great thing about product The great thing about this this product is endless amount of applications. other uses forits these amazing lights. LED lights on endless amount of applications. itsitsendless amount of applications.
RVs are popular, as is lighting for decking,
Recently, Eco Innovative Illumination has Recently, Eco Innovative has signage and commercial such as Recently, EcoIllumination Innovative Illumination has been doing under-counter lightingproperties for been doing under-counter lighting for doing lighting for kitchens, asbeen well. Theseunder-counter lights are not applications. hotels and bars, and industrial kitchens, as well. These lights are not only cost-effective, but will savelights as they well. These are not The kitchens, great thing about only cost-effective, but they will this save product is its your sanity! Christmas season isbut justthey will save only cost-effective, your sanity! Christmas season is just amount of applications. aroundendless the corner, so call now for a freeseasonRecently, Christmas is just around the your corner,sanity! so call now for a free quote.Eco Youraround shopping might be Innovative Illumination has been doing the might corner,besoleft callto quote. Your shopping left tonow for a free the last minute, but your lighting doesn’t for might kitchens, quote. shopping be as leftwell. to the lastunder-counter minute, but Your yourlighting lighting doesn’t have to be. have toThese be. the lights last minute, but your doesn’t are not only lighting cost-effective,
haveSign to be. Connect Service but theySign will save-- Dale yourWasko sanity! Christmas Connect Service Dale Wasko 831 B 60th St E, Saskatoon BConnect 60th St E, Saskatoon season 831 is just around the corner, so call now Sign Service - Dale Wasko 306.934.4440 306.934.4440 831shopping B 60th E, Saskatoon 306.262.0456 cellSt might for a free quote. Your be left 306.262.0456 cell 306.934.4440 to thedale@connectsignservice.com last minute, but your lighting doesn’t dale@connectsignservice.com www.ecoinnovativeillumination.com 306.262.0456 cell www.ecoinnovativeillumination.com have to be. dale@connectsignservice.com www.ecoinnovativeillumination.com Connect Sign Service - Dale Wasko 831 B 60th St E, Saskatoon 306.934.4440 306.262.0456 cell dale@connectsignservice.com
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WHO’S DESIGNING YOUR NEXT HOME? WE ARE THE DESIGN SPECIALISTS FOR: Saskatoon’s Best Home Builders • Private Home Owners • Cottages
Celebrating 10 Years of Business
PROFESSIONAL - DESIGN - DEVELOPMENT
A5C–116 103rd Street 306.477.5954
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Helping Others Call Saskatoon
“HOME”
As a REALTOR®, the most important aspect of my job is to ensure that whether buying or selling a home, my clients’ transactions go as smoothly as possible. For my clients looking for a new place to call home, I work with them every step of the way to make sure they end up with the perfect piece of property. One the most rewarding parts of my job is handing a client the keys to their new home. It allows me to relive my own experience in getting the keys to my new home, during which my REALTOR® exceeded my expectations — which is why I now work with him. I work diligently to treat my clients the same way I wanted to be treated by my own real estate agent: with honesty, integrity, and their best interest at heart, while meeting and hopefully exceeding expectations. When it comes to helping others sell their property, I believe in upholding those same qualities while working in a timely manner to list and show homes. I list employing MLS® and Internet services as soon as possible. I ensure that communication with my clients is kept open and all of their questions are answered to make the process as stress-free as possible while being just a phone call away. Born and raised in Saskatoon, I care about making sure others are happy to call this city home. If you’re thinking about buying or selling, consider Norm Grodecki – meeting your real estate needs and helping you get comfortable in this great city is not just my job, it’s my pleasure.
Norm Grodecki, REALTOR®
Residential Specialist E&M Real Estate Group Inc. Saskatoon 306.514.7997 | norm.emrealestategroup@gmail.com | www.normg.ca FineHomes
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PMN CoNtraCtiNg ServeS you with Down-to-Earth IntEgrIty By Tobie Hainstock Photos Lisa Landrie
“W
hen you come to the worksite, you’ll see me there getting dirty,” says Bernie Farbacher of PMN Contracting. “I’m a very hands on kind of guy and I will be on site working alongside the trades to make sure everything is done as it should be.” It’s that kind of hard work and dedication that has given PMN Contracting a reputation of excellence. Farbacher began working construction by helping his dad on the farm. He went away to become an RCMP officer where he was stationed just north of Montreal for about a year. Family is extremely important to Farbacher so he moved back to Saskatoon.
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After teaching for six years, Farbacher became a professional contractor. True to family, Farbacher named his new business after his children Paul, Madeleine, Nicole and Max. His dedication to his work and his family speak of his character as a contractor. Setting a positive example is important to Farbacher. He is quick to admit that he enjoys putting in an honest day’s work for an honest day’s pay and relays that same message to his family. Farbacher understands that your home is one of the most important investments you’ll ever make. Because of that understanding, he is dedicated to giving
you peace of mind. “My credit is perfect so my customers can be assured that I’m not taking their money and building someone else’s house with it,” he comments. Building positive relationships with the trades people he works with is another key element to being a successful and trusted contractor. “I’ve worked with the local trades for a long time and have built up a lot of strong and trusting relationships with them,” Farbacher remarks. The trades he works with are just as meticulous as he is when it comes to quality of work and customer service. Farbacher notes no job is too small and welcomes renovation projects for homes and cottages.
LEFT Bernie Farbacher with his children Paul, Madeleine, Nicole and Max MIDDLE Sharon Berscheid, client of PMN Contracting.
As a bilingual contractor, Farbacher is pleased to offer services in French or English. New Canadians are also welcome customers with PMN Contracting. “I’ll do whatever I can to help them throughout the process,” he states. “I’ll suggest a banker, mortgage broker or help them find someone they can trust to guide them and explain things to them.” Project management is also a big part of what Farbacher does. If a customer already has a lot to build on, Farbacher will build on it for a flat fee.
Recently, Farbacher has partnered with Lyle Mandersheid in a property development in Aberdeen. Located less than 20 minutes from Saskatoon, residents have the luxury of enjoying small town life with big city conveniences. “It’s the ideal location to create your own Norman Rockwell existence,” observes Farbacher. “There are plenty of amenities for residents to take advantage of, including a fantastic recreation centre and city water.”
Whether you’re a young family, retiree or new Canadian, Farbacher can help you achieve your home ownership dream. Let PMN Contracting help you make your dream home a reality.
PMN Contracting 306.227.4519 www.pmncontracting.com
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COVER FEATURE
Samtron Homes: Be Inspired! By Tonya Lambert Photos Lisa Landrie
Samtron Homes of Saskatoon is an industry leader in home automation technology and sustainable living design. An innovative, forward-thinking company, Samtron is committed to providing clients with superior service and the highest quality materials as well as the best new technological and environmentally-responsible advances in construction techniques and design.
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system, control the temperature within your home and operate the theatre system, lighting, blinds and the locks on the doors. A Samtron Homes customized automation system allows you to truly unwind when you come home in the evenings and relax when you are away on vacation. Rather than having to do more work when you get home, smart homes do the work for you. Always open to new technologies, Cao welcomes prospective clients to bring their ideas to him and together they will come up with a solution that meets the client’s needs and budget.
Sustainable Living
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aunched in 2012, Samtron is a locally-owned and –operated company dedicated to providing the people of Saskatoon with the latest technologies and creative designs. As a small company, it is able to provide you, the client, with the individual time, energy and attention that you deserve when making such a large and important purchase and life change. Committed to building homes that are simple,
comfortable and safe, Samtron Homes stands behind their products.
Smart Homes Samtron Homes is on the cutting edge of home automation technology. Owner Jeff Cao is passionate about technology and will design and install a home automation system that suits your individual lifestyle. With a touch of your iPad or iPhone, you will be able to monitor your home’s security
Cao, a Certified Professional Home Builder, is from a family with extensive development experience and he grew up in the business. Over the years, he has watched the development of better ways of building that are more environmentally friendly. With the help of friend, realtor and fellow travel enthusiast Lionel Wong, Cao keeps on top of innovative sustainable living ideas from all over, researching them thoroughly before introducing them to the Saskatoon market. Constructed using socially-responsible building practices, Samtron Homes are eco-friendly, energy efficient and
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COVER FEATURE
environmentally responsible. A certified ENERGY STARŽ builder, Samtron’s energy efficient homes are not only great for the environment but are better for your health and your pocketbook. Samtron Homes of Saskatoon will design and build you a sustainable home with technological innovations that will exceed your expectations, creating balance in your life, your home and your environment naturally. They have several lots and already-built homes from which to choose, as well as a townhouse project that will be underway soon. Call them for your free, noobligation consultation or viewing today and you can look forward to peace of mind in the future. Samtron Homes 508 Preston Ave. S Saskatoon 306.384.0006 jeff@samtron.ca www.samtron.ca
Build your own dream home on our best selected lots of this year! 127 Roy Crescent (show home) 1417 and 1419 Main Street (finished with exceptional quality; landscaping and driveway done; ready to move in!) 510 Evergreen Blvd. (high-quality with affordable price; legal suite potential in basement; ready to move in!) 206 Glacial Shores Cove (close to park and future school; in a quiet bay location!) 563 Marlatte Lane (close to park with affordable price) 651 Hastings Crescent (best location; back to wetland; build your dream home here!) Townhouse Project (design stage)
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Leave the detailing to Kristy Kleen!
• Complete cleaning and detailing for your auto, RV, boat, motorcycle and recreational vehicle. • We bring the "Kleen" to you with our mobile service for home exteriors, garage floors, decks, fences, windows and more! • Complete on-site commercial and industrial services for your business. We have moved to our neW and expanded location! 200–3936 Brodsky Avenue, Saskatoon | 306.229.2432 | kristykleen@gmail.com | www.kristykleen.ca
Two Exclusive must-see homes by SectionSix available this september. Call to view.
1063 Werschener Way Located in Rosewood. 2,380 sq. ft. - 18’ great room with coffered ceiling - fully developed basement with bar - stunning stainless steel and glass railing throughout
218 Augusta Drive Walk-out bungalow situated at end of a water trap on hole 10 at The Legends Golf Club in Warman. -
2,100 sq. ft. per level 12’ tray ceiling in dining room 14’ coffered ceiling in great room 14’ x 18’ media room in basement spectacular feature wall in master bedroom
639.471.8898
kevin@sectionsixfinehomes.com sectionsixfinehomes.com 28
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FINE HOMES LTD
Hiring Your Foundation Contractor
Dean Geransky owner Precision Foundations Warman 306.249.5665 precisionfoundations@sasktel.net
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s a foundation expert for nearly two decades, I’ve had the privilege of working on some outstanding projects in the Saskatoon area. Whether a single family home, a multi-unit condominium project or a commercial development, the foundation on which the building rests establishes the integrity of the structure for decades to come. Many people give passing thought to the foundation of their home, with the anticipation of the finished project the most exciting stage on which to focus. But take it from me: during my years of experience I’ve witnessed firsthand what happens when the foundation is neglected in the construction stage.
Your home’s foundation is literally the base of everything. A strong foundation will stand the test of time. Any flaws or imperfections with the foundation will only lead to problems down the road, such as moisture or insulation problems, or the inability to maintain the house’s integrity against natural soil settling and heaving. The only way to ensure the integrity of your home is to hire a professional foundation expert. When considering which company to hire, there are a few points to keep in mind. 1. Does tHe CompanY Have experienCe? An experienced foundation contractor will be able to properly assess the building site, carefully review and accurately complete the project according to the blueprints and foundation plans, and be able to educate clients on all things concrete. Precision Foundations is a longstanding company with an extensive project background. We’ve never turned down a project because of its complexity or scale; rather invest the time and considerations necessary for each unique build. 2. Does tHe CompanY Have proper equipment anD a knowleDgeable Crew? A company with its own fleet of equipment is properly prepared for every job — without the hassle of outsourcing its equipment needs. Precision Foundations not only has its own equipment, but a spacious facility in which to store and
provide maintenance to the machinery, as well as office quarters for customers’ quotes and consultations. Our crew is vast and specialized in each of the different foundations stages: from site grading to drilling piles, a prep crew to those who pour the concrete. We handle foundation inspections, so that when the foundation is finished the framing crew can come on site and keep the project moving ahead. It is a relief for our clients to know that all aspects are covered when they hire Precision Foundations. 3. Does tHe CompanY Have a Commitment to Customer satisFaCtion? One of the most valuable things I’ve learned throughout my career is how to carefully service clients who are putting their trust with me. I understand it is an overwhelming process, so I’ve taken steps to make it easy for the client. For example, as just one of the many built-in components to Precision Foundations’ service, we always do a final grade to ensure positive drainage of the yard when we’re finished. Many people do not realize that this is not a standard service with most companies (often reflected in the initial quote). We also have a one-year PFL Guarantee for cracks and workmanship — giving people peace of mind. For your upcoming home-build, addition or for repairs to a damaged foundation, I welcome your inquiries and questions.
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Your
DeďŹ ning Style By Meredith Heron Photos courtesy Meredith Heron
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As a designer, I am often asked when meeting someone for the first time what my “style” is. I struggled for years with defining this, and I would often refer to another more well-known designer. I really didn’t know how to articulate my aesthetic, mostly because it was still developing. I also didn’t want to limit myself or turn off a potential client if they didn’t happen to share this same preference.
B
ut after almost 17 years of designing, I most certainly do have a particular aesthetic. It was clearly defined by an acquaintance on Facebook recently, when she commented on a photo of a project we are finishing: “It's awesome and elegant, has a classic shape with modern elements, and has high contrast and a splash of tasteful colour. Totally Meredith.” I should add I’ve only met this person three times; she is a dear friend of a family member. She’s only ever seen my work virtually, thanks to social media, and we’ve never had the occasion to really talk about design together. I describe what she nailed in her review as “modern traditional.” I love the classics, but I don’t want a space to feel dated or take itself too seriously. I want the homes I design to reflect the people who inhabit
them to where it looks more like them than it does me. However, I definitely do have “Meredith-isms” I am inclined to repeat over and over again. While I can appreciate overly-modern or contemporary spaces, they aren’t really my “cup of tea” — and I’m now happier for saying so when I meet people. It’s not the sort of project that would excite me. I need to be excited about the projects I work on; they work out better for everyone in the long run. If you are considering working with a designer or if you are trying to navigate a design project on your own, do your styles really need to mesh? I think so, but more importantly, your personalities have to jive. As a client, you will need to do your homework before embarking on a project with a designer as much as you should if you are planning to go it alone. But where do you start?
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designers you like and start following them or do a search with the particular style you are leaning towards and see what comes up. Go ahead, fall down that rabbit hole! MAGAZINES. I often assign clients to get some magazines and tear out pictures of spaces they like. Unfortunately, they don’t often choose enough variety to give a true indication of where their style is leaning. On the other hand, some have subscribed for years and dutifully planned out their project in binders. I love when this happens.
PINTEREST. I am still surprised when clients tell me they’ve never heard of Pinterest. I usually tell prospects to follow my boards and find things they like so they can avoid being overwhelmed. I recommend this to anyone: find a few
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What’s interesting about collecting images of things you love — maybe just a feeling a space gives versus the actual contents of the space — starts to tell you a bit about what you are drawn to. Are you more contemporary — less stuff, not a lot of colour, but perhaps an interesting play of texture and contrast? Are you more country/rustic? This can be contemporary and more of a Scandinavian or Nordic feel versus
cottage/shabby chic. I can’t believe we are still talking about “shabby chic” so many decades later, but some love it. Others love a more coastal and beachy, laid-back vibe. Do you love colour and pattern? Do you prefer a mix of old and new? Are you a modern traditionalist? Please, for the love of all that is good and design-pretty, do not answer questions about your style with “I love clean lines.” Clean lines are not, and never will be, a design style. I won’t tell you what goes through my head when I hear this. It’s like saying you love colour and referencing grey, brown, black and white. These are not colours — they are neutrals. Once you’ve discovered your “style,” think about what you are comfortable with and what scares you. I guarantee if you pursue more of what scares you, you will end up with the best results. As I always say, you really should consult a professional to help you along — including pushing you out of your comfort zone.
The Best Dressed Homes in Saskatoon are Covered by Budget Blinds A fashion statement for your home begins and ends at Budget Blinds. We have one of the most diverse selections of contemporary styles, colours and fabrics of window coverings in Saskatoon. Are you unable to find the perfect accents for your home anywhere else? We carry a unique and extensive selection of rugs, screens, window film, decorative pillows, custom bedding and more! ABOVE Kim Lang Photo courtesy of Heather Fritz Given the Thumbs up by
TRUSTED Saskatoon.com
102-2834 Millar Avenue 306.242.5706 | 1.888.98.BUDGET kqlang@budgetblinds.com | www.budgetblinds.com |
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More Than Just a Recliner By Rebecca Henderson Photos Lisa Landrie
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S
orensen’s Fine Furniture has opened its doors in Saskatoon and offers the city North America’s largest La-Z-Boy Comfort Studio.
There is more to the La-Z-Boy brand than just the standard recliner. The line includes recliners, motion furniture, stationary furniture and accent chairs — all available in a huge assortment of both fabrics and leathers. The Sorensen family has been in the furniture business in Saskatoon since 1990 and they saw a need to open the new store located at 715-1st Ave. N to offer the people of Saskatoon a local alternative to travelling to Calgary or Edmonton to purchase La-Z-Boy furniture.
Jeff Sorensen says, “We’ve expanded every aspect of the full line of La-Z-Boy furniture to offer something for everyone. Apart from our extensive display of products, we have the ability to custom order any piece. We offer a massive selection of both fabrics and leathers to appeal to every consumer.” The La-Z-Boy line has developed a lot over the years from just being known as a recliner company. They offer new, modern styling and designer fabrics and incredible leathers that rival any manufacturer in the industry today. “We want to showcase the style, product and convenience of the LaZ-Boy brand,” says Sorensen.
Sorensen’s Fine Furniture has eight qualified and knowledgeable sales staff available to answer any questions consumers may have and also help them with their furniture purchases. While Sorensen’s Fine Furniture is primarily dedicated to La-Z-Boy, they offer stylish solid-wood dining room suites by reputable companies such as Dine-Art and Tomali, and solid-wood bedroom suites from Durham Furniture, and additional bedroom suites from Magnussen Home Furnishings. They also have a fantastic in-store Simmons mattress gallery, and have available the new top of the line “BLACK” beds which are revolutionary to the mattress industry. “Timing was everything, and the time was right. Saskatoon needed a furniture store like Sorensen’s Fine Furniture to bring the world of La-Z-Boy to the city,” says Sorensen. The owners, Jeff Sorensen and Kristy Sorensen-McLauchlan, are very proud of the new store and excited to bring the larger selection of La-Z-Boy furniture to consumers in Saskatoon. Sorensen’s Fine Furniture is open Monday through Saturday 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Thursday 9:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sorensen’s Fine Furniture 715- 1st Avenue N 306.955.5909
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Embrace Autumn with the Latest in Comfort HARDWOOD: Solid or engineered, urban or rustic, classic and traditional. Or why not wood walls?
LAMINATE: Light airy wood or dark dramatic colours. The choices are greater than ever!
CARPET: Textured, patterned, luxury plush piles or contemporary Berber. Carpet is always in style!
TILE: Porcelain or stone, choose from marble, limestone, slate or granite‌ not just for countertops anymore!
Let our experts help you today. New construction and renovation projects are welcomed!
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1300–3530 Millar Avenue, Saskatoon 306.653.3899 www.carpetsuperstoressaskatoon.ca
Add A Touch of ElEgancE with GrAnite And QuArtz Calsask Granite specializes in custom fabrication of granite and quartz for the kitchen and island countertops; fireplace surrounds and hearth; conference, dining and coffee tables; bathroom vanities; and wet bar countertops. Choose from hundreds of patterns in granite imported from Brazil and Italy, or quartz by Caesarstone, Vicostone, Cimstone and Hanstone. Calsask Granite is a proud supplier to homebuilders in Saskatoon and the surrounding area, including luxury homes and condominium developments. Owned and operated by Thang and Lien Dinh since 2010, Calsask is committed to excellence in customer service and product quality.
Thang and Lien Dinh
811 Circle Drive East. Saskatoon 306.242.4847 | www.calsask.com
Creating Your Personal Stairway to Heaven By Tori Stafford Photos Neek Photography
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t may not be unique to have stairs in a house, but with Concept Railings and Stairs, the stairs in your home can truly be unique.
A family-owned and -operated company, Concept Railings and Stairs offers specialized services in customizing stairs and railings. The team of dynamic, skilled professionals at Concept can create a staircase that makes a statement: With a keen sense of attention to detail, the team ensure these staircases suit the individual tastes, design and needs of each client and their home. Owned by Jerry and Dolores Penner, Concept Railings and Stairs builds everything in-shop and by hand, and works with clients to design and create custom projects, from traditional and classic to contemporary and chic. Their team can create custom-made railings, as well as standard and basic models, and Concept offers a wide variety of spindle designs for wood, metal and glass to complement the desired style of each client. Combining personalized service with over 25 years of experience in the industry, Jerry personally measures for each project. For the Penners, customer satisfaction is a must, and therefore, their team provides excellent and reliable
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ABOVE Photo Courtesy of Concept Railings and Stairs
service where the client is the priority. “We care about the customer,” Jerry says, noting that the specialized and dedicated services Concept offers mean no details are overlooked. “We offer personalized service that is carried out with care and expertise, and we make sure everything is done correctly.” Concept Railings and Stairs also uses only environmentally-friendly waterbased finishing products, and were the first company in Saskatoon to offer prefinished railing and stair installations. This means all the finishing is done in-shop, eliminating any mess or fuss for the homeowner, and ensuring all finishing work is done to the highest standards possible. When staining and finishing is done inhome, the chances of hazing or ghosting increase — pre-finishing allows the team at Concept to create a finish of a higher standard, Penner explains. “There’s very little dust that can go onto the material, so it is smoother, cleaner,” he
says, pointing out that finishing product also doesn’t end up in the client’s house, creating a messy clean up project. “And the project is finished after installation!” Indeed, once the highly-skilled installation technicians at Concept Railing and Stairs complete their work, pre-finished products mean there is no next step — and no waiting for drying or dealing with the smell or fumes from finishing. Staff of Concept Railings and Stairs.
All installations and work by Concept Railings and Stairs is guaranteed, Penner emphasizes, noting that his team will service their work, and encourage clients to call should any issues arise. “We guarantee our work to the best of our ability, and we try to go beyond that,” he says. “We like to do things right, and we are very, very good at what we do.” Combining a client’s vision with their expertise and technical abilities, the team at Concept can create stunning and unique stairways, to accent homes or businesses
in endless styles and colours. When you want custom stairs, railings and design as unique as you are, Concept Railings and Stairs is your first step.
Concept Railings and Stairs #4, 401 Pakwa Place Saskatoon 306.664.0555 info@conceptrailings.ca www.conceptrailings.ca
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What Hardwood Flooring to Choose: Solid or Engineered?
Craig Listwin Mainstream Design Centre 4–811 51st Street East (across from Peavy Mart) Saskatoon 306.384.5522 mainstreamsales@sasktel.net
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othing brings out the warmth and richness in a room like a beautiful hardwood floor. Whether it be a traditional two-and-a-quarter-inches wide by threequarters of an inch thick solid hardwood floor in a rich maple colour, or seveninches by half-inch thick engineered in a subtle grey, white oak colour. But one question often asked of me is: what is the best flooring for our climate? Here are a few comparisons of the two products to help you decide which flooring is best for you. SOLID HARDWOOD Solid hardwood is manufactured from a solid piece of
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wood with a standard thickness of threequarters of an inch. It is usually a tongueand-groove system and can be applied by glue, nails or staples on grade and abovegrade levels. Widths vary from as little as two-and-a-quarter-inches to as wide as four-and-a-quarter-inches, with threeand-a-quarter-inches becoming the most popular size.
ing usually consists of plywood, which gives it strength and stability. Because of the stability of the plywood backing, width can exceed seven-inches. It comes in a tongue and groove format or even sometimes “click,” and therefore it can be glued, nailed/stapled or floated. Because of its stability, engineered flooring is suitable for a basement.
Because solid hardwood is one piece, it will expand and contract with our climate. In Saskatchewan, where we have extreme weather variations, a solid hardwood floor will expand or contract more than almost anywhere else, and has a greater chance of cupping, as well. Optimal conditions are having your humidity in your house at 45 to 55 per cent to minimize this.
The plywood backing of engineered flooring means less contraction and expansion (if at all), making it more structurally sound for our climate. Optimal conditions are having your humidity in your house at 35 to 65 per cent.
It can be stained or oiled in a wide range of colours, and several species of woods are available. Your selection is endless. Throw in hand-scraped or wire-brushed and the options are even greater. As a price point, on average, solid hardwood tends to be a bit less expensive than engineered. ENGINEERED FLOORING Engineered flooring is usually a half-inch thick, with a quality product having a two- to four-millimetre wear layer. The wear layer is thick enough that one would be hard pressed to wear it out. Its back-
Just like solid hardwood, there are endless colours, species and texture treatments that complement this product. In fact, your selection of reclaimed woods or exotic colours exceeds that of solid hardwoods. Though price might be a bit higher than that of solid hardwood, if you are able to find one you like that has a “click” installation method, you should be able to save some money on the install. One thing to remember about choosing a hardwood floor, whether it be solid or engineered, is that you get what you pay for. Too often people look for the “deal” only to be disappointed later on.
Naturally Beautiful
Live Edge Desig n
I
deal beauty possesses features in balance and harmony with nature. It is a way to stay connected with the grandeur of the natural world.
dining table
Modern Country Interiors’ craftsmanship strikes that unique balance with timeless elegance and understated stylishness that is never out of fashion. Natural woods handcrafted by Canadian artisans for a lifetime of memories. Find us on Facebook!
Custom Furniture for the Entire Home
808 Broadway Avenue • Saskatoon, SK • 382-2373 • www.moderncountryinteriors.com
Opulent Accessories Four Ways to add Luxury to your Home By Courtney Tait
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hile the sprawling estates of celebrities featured on shows like Celebrity House Hunting may inspire thoughts of luxury, you don’t need a mansion to feel surrounded by opulence. American designer Larry Laslo, whose high-end spaces have been featured in Architectural Digest and Vanity Fair, said, “Exquisite details make interiors sing.”
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2. area and Throw rugs Top the sleek finish of a polished floor with the right rug, and you strike a luxurious balance of cool and comfort. In larger rooms with hardwood or laminate, an area rug will create cohesion and warmth. Runners and throw rugs in smaller spaces add interest, and can function as accent pieces that highlight specific furniture and artwork. Choose patterned rugs to hide the wear of daily life, in shades that complement your home’s colour scheme. Handknotted rugs are typically of a higher quality than machine-made ones, and can read either classic or contemporary, depending on their pattern and other elements in the room. A popular style is the kilim, a flat-weave tapestry rug that features geometric designs. With Persian, Eastern European and Turkish origins, these rugs bring a worldly elegance to the home. If you prefer a more neutral look that your feet will love, consider a deeppile Moroccan rug. These double-knot designs are undyed, and usually cream or white with a large diamond pattern. In this spirit, we’ve chosen our four favourite accessories for adding opulence to your home. Blend these decadent details with your personal style to create an ambience fit for the stars.
Remember that rugs can be used as a focal point, creating a baseline for the other accessories you choose. Cherrypick ones you love to look at, and keep them in mind as you add new elements.
1. Chandeliers Once a staple fixture that brought old-world elegance to dining rooms, chandeliers are now one of the most versatile ways to light your home. Functioning as a centrepiece, a chandelier can add instant opulence to living areas, master bedrooms and spastyle bathrooms. If you want a classic style, opt for a crystal chandelier. Cut glass pieces dangling from the arms reflect light, creating a sparkling, dramatic effect. Candle chandeliers create an ambience that’s warm and inviting. Pillar candles of varying heights look beautiful suspended on a metal platform that hangs from the ceiling. Try this over your dining table for an upgrade to the family meal. Prefer a more modern option? Chandeliers that mix glass with metals such as brass and wrought iron are contemporary examples of lighting artistry. Consider having one commissioned for an original statement piece that shows off your eclectic taste.
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3. sTaTemenT arTwork Nothing suggests opulence like classy, tasteful artwork. While the impact of art depends largely on the viewer, a few guidelines can help you choose wisely. Consider hanging one bold, large-scale piece in your primary living area. A solitary abstract with bright colours, vivid landscape, or a black and white photographic image creates an instant conversation piece, while the oversized dimensions bring weight and depth the room. Conversely, a gallery wall is an excellent way to fill a space with art and photography collected over the years. Editing is key to making this look curated rather than chaotic, so choose with a discerning eye, using the room’s style as an anchor. Invest in professional framing and opt for “conservation glass”, which will help protect the work from ultraviolet rays. From classic busts to exotic animals, sculptures elevate the tone and feel of a room. Seek out local artists and consider having a piece custom made. Display sculptures on console tables, shelves or on a bookcase for an eye-catching feature that exudes class. To ensure your artwork stands out, only display what you truly love. Remember that opulence isn’t about quantity, but quality.
Remember that opulence isn’t about quantity, but quality.
4. arChiTeCTural mouldings No matter what style of home you live in, adding width, depth and height with architectural moulding will give it a dramatic upgrade. Baseboards, casing and moulding are essential to creating an atmosphere that exudes luxury. To add impact to your walls, replace small baseboards with ones that are at least eight to 10 inches. Accent the baseboard with quarter-round trim for added elegance. To define openings in walls between rooms, or to frame doors, incorporate casing at least three inches wide. (Your home’s scale and ceiling height will be a factor in choosing widths of mouldings.) Crown and cove moulding create an architectural transition between the wall and ceiling, drawing the eye upward. Styles vary from clean and simple to ornate. The more ornate they are, the more of a feature they become, so ensure they will complement (rather than conflict with) the rest of your accessories. These four elements can be added to your home gradually, giving it opulent touches over time. Choose the one that inspires you most, and start from there. The sense of luxury will evolve with each new addition, creating an ongoing style statement.
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Feet Sure Love
Our Flooring
From the Forest engineered hardwood is an ever increasing trend in our local market. This product is an excellent choice for new homes or highend renovations. It offers increased durability to dents and moisture. It’s guaranteed to withstand gapping between boards due to seasonal changes in humidity. It comes with a limited lifetime warranty. Feature Flooring has it strategically priced to reduce cost. There is a diverse range of colour options and wood types. This is an attractive alternative that offers the customer hardwood flooring with extra benefits at a reduced cost.
Stop in and talk to us about our monthly “Feature Flooring – Feature of the Month.” Each month we showcase a different flooring product at a reduced “Feature Price.” We educate you on the benefits of each individual product. Items “Featured” are often some of the most demanded the industry has to offer. Stop in to see us and learn how they fit into your home and lifestyle.
Feature Flooring has a large selection of area rugs. They are a perfect accent to almost every room. If you require an area rug that is a circle, oval or other shape, Feature Flooring is able to cut these shapes at no extra cost and resurge the edging. You then receive your finished product, an area rug in the shape of your choice.
102-2723 Faithfull Avenue, Saskatoon | 306.665.3030 | www.featureflooring.ca FineHomes
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Curating Your Space for Beauty, Ease & EfďŹ ciency By Tonya Lambert Photos Lisa Landrie
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pace is a very personal thing. How you organize and decorate your space reflects your personality, your values and your way of life. Space that is well-designed and decorated to your taste helps make your life easier and more relaxed, so it is important to take the time and spend the money to ensure that your home and office are organized for maximum beauty, ease and efficiency. Ian “Happy” Grove of Ian Grove Interior Design in Saskatoon has been designing and decorating homes in Calgary and Saskatoon for over two decades. A member of the Interior Designers Association of Saskatchewan, Happy Grove is a well-trained and highly experienced designer who curates space to meet the needs and tastes of the people who will be occupying it. “The true sign of success in interior designing,” explains Happy, “is when your friends come into your home and they don’t know that a designer has been there: your home and its design reflect your personality so well.” This is the goal that he works to achieve with every unique space he designs. As his nickname suggests, Happy has a positive energy about him that is reflected in the work he does. “When Ian Grove was young, his mother dubbed him ‘Happy’ because of his sunny disposition,” explain Bob and Rita Mirwald. “The nickname stuck. As his mom foresaw, working with Ian is a happy experience as he provides sound advice and thoughtful direction. He helped us make our living space the cozy, comfortable and beautiful place that we knew it could be. We recommend Ian, but only if you want to turn design and decorating from stress and worry into pleasure and contentment.” Happy believes that everything has a living energy and he works to harness this energy in his design. A former shiatsu instructor, Happy realizes the interconnectivity of all things and this can be seen in his design work, from the wellcurated space to the use of eco-friendly, sustainable materials wherever possible. When you consider the living qualities of the finishes and objects around you, you are more likely to surround yourself with
Ian “Happy” Grove
things that resonate with positive energy as this equals a happy living space.
they do, seeing both as equally important to the overall plan.
Ian Grove Interior Design accepts projects of any size. Following Happy’s awareness of how all things and spaces are connected, he prefers to curate an entire space whenever possible. When beginning a new project, Happy consults with his clients to learn about their lifestyle, their tastes, their timeline and their budget. Then, he takes all their ideas and puts them through a concept development filter, presenting them with his conceptualization of the finished interiors for their approval. Happy encourages clients to tell him as much about what they don’t like as about what
As an interior designer, Happy is qualified to not only decorate a space but can also alter it. He works primarily with home owners and has great relationships with many trades or suppliers so he can offer clients a wealth of options. If you are looking for an interior designer who is well-educated, has lots of experience and will work closely with you to curate a space that brings you bliss then Happy Grove of Ian Grove Interior Design is the person to contact. Ian Grove Interior Design 306.978.4443 happylivingspace@sasktel.net
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Whoever Said...
Custom is Costly? Custom chairs starting at $399
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spare bedrooms have to be sparse? Bedroom packages with queen pillow-top mattress starting at $999
FunCtional Can’t be Fashionable? With state-of-the-art hidden storage compartments and charging stations in both bedroom and living suites.
all hot tubs are Created equal? Artesian Spa rated by the CES as the most energy efficient spa, designed for the harshest environments while creating a chemical-free environment.
Good thinGs Come to those who wait? With over 16,000 sq. ft. of stock at our distribution centre in Saskatoon available for immediate pick-up, you don't have to wait.
At IFW we are ready to serve residential and commercial clients, from designers to home builders. Come in to see us for all your personal home furnishings or your commercial staging projects. International Furniture Wholesalers, bringing the world to your door!
3402 Faithfull Avenue Saskatoon | 306.955.1031 3332 – 2nd Avenue North, Prince Albert | 306.763.0063 668 Henderson Drive, Regina | 306.779.1228 www.International Furniture Wholesalers.ca FineHomes
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Sinking In By Trina Annand
Modern SinkS for kitchen & Bath
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i tc h e n and b a t h ro o m renovations are some of the most valuable and rewarding projects homeowners choose to take on. These renovations also have a plethora of choices that become permanent fixtures in a home and are used for decades. Sinks are one of the fixtures that get the most wear and tear in a home. Whether in a bathroom or kitchen, a sink can be much more than a vessel for water. Since its creation in the early 1900s stainless steel has been a favoured choice for all types of production due to its durability and beauty. In the 1930s the material finally began to be used in domestic settings rather than heavy enamelled cast iron or porcelain. Now, steel lends itself to both traditional and ultra modern looks. Those looking for a more vintage feel are still opting for cast iron or fireclay. Modern fabrication techniques have opened up new materials like composite granite which does not show marks or scratches as stainless does. For an airy look in the bathroom try glass vessel sinks which add style and visual space to a room. Natural stone like soapstone, concrete for an industrial look, even seamlessly integrated solid surface sinks like quartz are making the rounds in modern kitchens and baths setting trends of their own. In the world of sinks mounting and style is key. Under-mount sinks are gaining popularity for their modern look and easy counter cleaning, though over-mount are easier to change and more affordable. The traditional look of an apron front or farm sink creates a unique focal point in any kitchen and is often a must-have. The
fixture has been brought into the modern era through use of colour, materials and even texture. Vessel sinks are still very popular in the bath; the raised basin emits a spa feel to any bath. Neo-Metro’s Ebb Concept sink provides an ultra modern feel by combining a stainless steel sink with backlit resin in a wide variety of colours combining a nightlight and chromatheraphy effects. Whether in the kitchen or bath, bigger is better for sinks. Long trough sinks are very popular for en suites and deep sinks are key for soaking dishes from a special dinner. Though a double sink has become popular over the years, you don’t really need one unless you do a lot of hand washing; a smaller, secondary separate sink in a kitchen island is often more useful for families cooking as a team. As sinks change so too do faucets. As the jewellery of a room handles and faucets play a strong role in defining personal style in a space whether it is traditional or sleek modern. Vessel and trough sinks often call for wall mounted fixtures which free up valuable counter space and ensure easier cleaning. Technology also plays a part in the new faucet with touch start and motion sense features so dirty hands do not become dirty handles. This technology limits how much time is allocated to cleaning as well as avoids cross contamination. Faucets now even come with antimicrobial innovations to ensure a healthier home for everyone. When it comes to the more permanent fixtures in your home it’s important to think longterm. This is an object you will be using everyday so make sure it works for your lifestyle and is as unique as you.
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Franke has been making sinks for more than 100 years – that’s a whole lot of experience, and something that is reflected in both our quality and design. Why not build some of that expertise and quality into your next luxury build project, with the inclusion of a Franke Techna undermount sink? Franke Techna models offer the latest in minimalist and sleek hand-crafted design in robust 18 gauge stainless, with easy to clean satin finish and 10 mm corners.
Available now at ®
829 46th St E Saskatoon (306) 664 - 2389
www.robinsonlightingandbath.com
Locally owned & custom designed with you in mind. 511 - 45th Street E. Saskatoon | 306.934.0660 www.majesticcabinets.ca |
LET US BE YOUR FIRST AND ONLY STOP For All Your Kitchen Needs
PEPPERS HAS EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR:
• Everyday Cooking • Entertaining Friends • Gift Season • Visit us today for the latest and best selection in gadgets, cookware, baking, knives and cutlery, wine and bar, and tabletop items!
THE MALL AT LAWSON HEIGHTS 134 Primrose Drive, Saskatoon 306.242.3226 | www.pepperskitchen.ca
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How to Prepare for your Kitchen Renovation
Lisa Black Design and Sales Consultant
Huntwood Cabinets 511-A 51st Street E Saskatoon 306.955.8252 www.huntwood.com lblack@huntwood.com
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enovating your kitchen can be a daunting task, but well worth the time and effort. Kitchen renovations yield a large return on investment, with as much as 75 to 100 percent recouped when the home is sold. In addition, it is a pleasure to work in a wellplanned kitchen, making the time spent there more efficient and enjoyable. Here are some tips to help you prepare for your kitchen renovation and enjoy the process: SEEK THE A DV I C E OF PROFESSIONALS. Kitchen designers are experts in planning work and storage spaces in the kitchen. They will incorporate your preferences and ideas, while keeping important clearances and codes in mind. If your renovation includes changes to the existing space, you may also need to involve an architect, engineer, interior designer, or contractor.
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HAVE A REALISTIC RENOVATION TIMELINE. Most kitchen renovations take from two to four months to complete, which is a long time to have your home in upheaval. Trying to renovate with an important deadline in mind, such as Christmas, will only add stress. Many homeowners choose to renovate in the warmer months, so they can cook outside and escape the mess. GIVE YOURSELF TIME TO RESEARCH THE MATERIALS AVAILABLE and make choices that you will be happy with long-term. Keep a binder with all renovation information inside. BUY THE BEST QUALITY MATERIALS YOU CAN AFFORD. Kitchen renovations are costly, so you don’t want to fix or replace materials earlier than necessary. Spend the bulk of your budget on the materials that are the most difficult to replace, such as cabinets and flooring. BE SURE TO ALLOW FOR MANY FUNCTIONS IN YOUR KITCHEN PLAN. A well-planned kitchen suits today’s busy lifestyle, allowing us to
cook, work and entertain all in one space. Popular areas to include are beverage centres, breakfast areas, work islands, charging centres and storage pantries. INCLUDE DIFFERENT TYPES OF STORAGE to allow for small to large sized items. Make a list of all items to be stored, and make sure everything has a place in your new kitchen. Ideally, items should be stored close to the area where they will be used. TRUST PROFESSIONALS TO INSTALL YOUR KITCHEN, but be available to them to during the installation process. Inevitably, there are questions that come up during every renovation that require the home owner’s input. If you are not available, the professionals will have to make those decisions for you. For more renovation tips and a free design consultation, visit Huntwood’s Saskatoon Cabinet Showroom. Whether you are renovating or building a new home, you get your best cabinet value by buying direct from the manufacturer. 306.955.8252 / 511-A 51st Street E, Saskatoon / www.huntwood.com
Out of The Ordinary
Today’s Sink Provides More Than Just Function Stone Forest takes its lead from nature's blueprint. Contemporary designs are sculpted from natural materials including stone, bronze, bamboo, copper, iron and hardwoods. Browse their latest collection at the Plumb Shoppe today.
2225 Avenue C North, Saskatoon | 306.249.4000 | www.theplumbshoppe.com FineHomes
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Welcome to bella rocha, Where Stone is art for your Home Visit our new website for inspiration and ideas. Learn about different stone options and see our state-of-the-art fabrication process. We offer an amazing selection, whether it's granite, marble or quartz.You don't have to settle for average anymore.
506–45th Street East | 306.244.5688 www.bellarocha.com | |
FoLLoW uS and our upcoming projEctS on FacEbook and tWittEr. 56
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Minimal Preparation.
Maximum Relaxation. By Barbara Shawcross Photos Lisa Landrie
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OAK Luxury Bath Products offers modern shower and bathtub options. With access to a large variety of products that can meet any space constrictions and budget, SOAK is ideal for creating an at home spa. All products have a free-standing design that allows for easy access for any future maintenance. This flexibility eliminates the need for any wall demolition that
would be required to access features of a typical tiled shower.
and decorative floorboards are available on select models.
Steam showers have the standard features of a rain showerhead, hand held showerhead, body jets, steam generator and FM radio. You can customize your shower with programmable temperature, timer and the capability to incorporate aromatherapy. Optional features such as a foot massager, multi-coloured lighting,
Health benefits to exposing yourself to steam regularly include: • • • • •
Opening pores in our skin Releasing toxins Increased blood circulation Soothes sore muscles Aids sinus, respiratory and skin ailments
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Our SOAK tub is well worth the cost — so much better than massages at the chiropractor. I wish we had installed it years ago! — Tony Beck
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ABOVE Scott Howsam BELOW Harold Heisler
One of the most popular products is the steam shower/bathtub combination, which allows for more flexibility in your design. Pairing all the features of a steam shower with the benefits of a jetted massage bathtub, these units maximize your relaxation experience. Walk-in tubs are also available, ideal for people with mobility limitations. To complete your bathroom SOAK offers a series of wallmounted vanities, hand crafted coloured glass sinks, faucets and toilets.
No relaxation experience would be complete without mention of SOAK’s extensive line of premium hot tubs. With up to a 20 year warranty, you can be assured that your investment will be protected. SOAK offers FREE water testing to prevent against potential water problems. Premium design, assembly and maintenance services are available for all products sold. Contact Scott or Harold
today for a one-on-one consultation so you can create your dream bathroom.
SOAK Luxury Bath Products 714A Circle Drive East 306.649.4900 www.soakbath.ca saskatoon@soakbath.ca
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The Modern
Home Spa By Erin Legg
T
he Romans and Greeks had it right. Found in these ancient cultures were hot baths, considered the “social hub” for the elite. The ancient Greeks and Romans incorporated hydrotherapy into their traditional healing methods with the understanding that nerve stimulation using heat and pressure provides great health benefits. As such an integral component to historic culture, hot tubs are found in contemporary society in an estimated one and five households. Still considered by some as a social gathering spot, many revere the sacred hot bath as a self-indulgent relaxation tool. The feeling of submersing oneself into the decadent warm water of a home spa is one that can hardly be matched, aside from perhaps having your own massage therapist to knead away the day’s stresses. In today’s spa market, the various models available are equipped with state-of-the-art hydrotherapy systems that provide users with foot and neck massages of varying intensities. Benefits include increased relaxation, improved immune system and increase of the metabolic rate. Technology has certainly evolved over the past few thousand years. Today’s hot tubs not only come with any gadget you can dream of, but are built solidly to withstand even the harshest of elements. Special insulation in certain tubs means greater heat retention and improved heat circulation. Modern crafted spas are built with efficiency in mind, meaning the homeowner has less to worry about. Sophisticated designs are available for the affluent and discerning homeowner.
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The finishes of your backyard spa can include natural wood to complement the patio, sleek finishes to offer a more minimalist appearance, or even rounded shapes to break free from the traditional square structure. Intimate tubs built for two are perfect luxury vessels of enjoyment, while other models can accommodate 10 or more (for the more social homeowner). Accessories to complete the home spa include built-in speakers and surround sound systems, flat-screen televisions, LED systems with touch screen controls for greater ease of use, mood lighting and built-in loungers. Some spas are even designed with aromatherapy dispensers to assist with users’ relaxation. The ancient Roman and Greek societies often complemented the sense of serenity brought forth from the spa by surrounding the hot baths with beautifully manicured gardens. This is a tradition that still holds today in our contemporary yards: who wants to stop short by investing in a home spa but not in its permanent location? Even with our drastic season changes we can still enjoy year-round home spa use with properly executed designs by the professionals. Shelter from the elements, proper lighting, and ease of access from the main living quarters are all considered when garden spa (and, shall we say, polar spa) designs are made. To be considered the ultimate elegant home accessory, the modern home spa provides enjoyment year-round.
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Jacuzzi:
A Name Meaning Quality By Tobie Hainstock Photos Megan Antoniuk Photography and Courtesy Premium Home Leisure
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hen William Shakespeare said, “A rose by any name would smell as sweet,” he clearly wasn’t referring to purchasing hot tubs. There’s a lot to be said about having the security of owning a top brand name product. At Premium Home Leisure, you can count on the best quality spa because you can count on the name that built them: Jacuzzi. A BRIEF HISTORY “The hot tub was actually invented out of necessity,”
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explains Rick Griffith, owner of Premium Home Leisure. He tells the story of the Jacuzzi brothers who started out making aircraft propellers at the beginning of the 20th century. Eventually, they began manufacturing agricultural pumps. When the son of Candido developed rheumatoid arthritis at 15 months old, he created submersible bathtub pump to help ease the boy’s pain through hydrotherapy. In 1970, Jacuzzi introduced the world’s first hot tub.
JACUZZI QUALITY TODAY Today, the name Jacuzzi is synonymous with world-class luxury hot tubs used by people around the globe for enjoyment and medicinal purposes. The company continues the tradition of offering excellent products and services and is constantly developing new technology to serve their customers even better. “Jacuzzi still employs teams of engineers and continues to lead the way in innovation for hot tubs,” advises Griffith.
WIDE SELECTION With Jacuzzi, you can count on top quality hot tubs of all sizes and price ranges. “There really is a hot tub to fit any budget and lifestyle,” comments Griffith. Customers are welcome to come into the 5,000 sq. ft. showroom and browse. “We will help you find the right tub by asking you questions about your application, your family and expectations,” he adds. When buying a Jacuzzi hot tub, patrons can be confident in the quality of design for comfort and health reasons. Jacuzzi spas are equipped with the most natural water system available and are the easiest to maintain. “The water is clean and clear and actually leaves your skin feeling softer with no irritations and minimal effort,” states Griffith. Jacuzzi tubs are energy-efficient and proven to handle harsh winters very well. PUTTING THE C U STO M E R FIRST Premium Home Leisure customers are encouraged to try out a hot tub before buying it. “We want to make sure our customers are happy and comfortable with the tub they buy,” Griffith continues. Since 2003, Premium Home Leisure has received Jacuzzi’s coveted Exceptional Customer Service Award. The staff is well informed of what they sell and offer quality “no pressure” sales to their customers. The team at Premium Home Leisure are happy to answer questions and guide patrons through the buying process. The service department works diligently to take care of the needs of the customers and offers 48- to 72-hour turnaround time on critical service. At Premium Home Leisure, they only service what they sell — which assists in reducing customer wait times. BUYING WITH CONFIDENCE Buying quality means buying with confidence that you will be satisfied for years to come. There are a number of different brands of hot tubs available but only one is the original: Jacuzzi. Rick Griffith (owner)
Premium Home Leisure Corner of Idylwyld & 22nd St Saskatoon 306.955.5466 www.premiumhomeleisure.com
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Guestrooms
They Won’t Want to Leave By Rebecca Schneidereit
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he guest bedroom is something of a paradox. The chamber is usually empty in the homes of even the most prolific entertainers. Yet, when a guestroom is needed, every inch is necessary — and gratefully appreciated. So how can you ensure that your guestroom is used to the hilt, whether occupied or not? Below, Fine Homes offers a series of tips to ensure any overnight visitor — from nearest, dearest family to friends-of-friends-of-friends — will feel warmly welcomed. (We’ve even thrown in a little advice to ensure the room doesn’t “take up space” between guests.) Keep a Level Head. If you can, avoid cloistering your guestroom away on a top floor. Guests wrangling heavy suitcases don’t want to deadlift them up double flights of stairs; plus, some visitors may have mobility concerns. An entry-level space, convenient to kitchen and laundry, is your best bet. Beware Double Duty. “Guestroomsslash-offices” may seem space-efficient, but guests sharing space with a filing cabinet know they’ve interrupted your routine. And don’t turn your guestroom into a storage closet; visitors shouldn’t have to curate important objects or documents!
Be Our Guest! Custom home construction and renovations give you control over your floor plan — take advantage of that fact. Fine Homes editor Erin Legg, is a fan of the en-suite bath; a balcony is charming, and a separate “garden entrance” ensures privacy and quiet returns from “nights on the town.”
Exceptions to the Rule. On the other hand, it’s sensible — generous, even — to store things in your guestroom that might benefit guests. A library, “man-cave” or rec-room-turned-guestroom offers rainyday enjoyment. (Books in an elegant case are beautiful and always useful — especially if you include a few picture books for guests with children.) If you’re an art collector, a guestroom gallery is a small stroke of genius: fresh eyes will have an opportunity to appreciate the work. A Bed Ahead. A dedicated guest room can accommodate various bed styles, while multipurpose rooms demand something easily concealed (a Murphy bed or folding wooden futon are stylish, sturdy options). Be especially choosy about “hidden” beds: comfort is more important than convenience, and guests who just stumbled off a red-eye need a good night’s sleep.
Know Your Audience. Guests are not created equal; what charms one may irk the next. Many “experts” recommend decorating guest bedrooms with flowers, but if your sister-in-law arrives with five children in tow, a bouquet in a crystal vase is a recipe for disaster. Suit personal touches to each visitor. Next-Level Necessities. To pamper guests without overwhelming them, consider their needs, and then add unique touches. Carafes are frequently recommended in guestrooms, but for sightseeing houseguests, something portable is more useful. A high-end bottled water or specially-chosen travel mug go “above and beyond.” And don’t get so carried away with “finishing touches” that you neglect to provide necessities. Canadian Hospitality. It’s easy to misread Canadian climates, and it’s a host’s job to help guests weather surprises (pun intended), whether that means providing socks, mittens and packets of hot cocoa, or flip-flops and inexpensive sunglasses. And make sure guestroom trappings are seasonally appropriate — no white lace coverlets in winter or vintage quilts in July. Goodbye Gifts. Parting presents for guests should be both lightweight and sturdy; save hardcovers or bottled preserves for friends nearby! Music by a local musician or (unframed) artwork are “sure-fire” winners, and a gift that can be put into action on the way home — whether a scarf, a game or a non-perishable local delicacy — is a nice touch.
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Turn
LIMITED SPACE into a
Comfortable Place
Saskatchewan’s distributor of MURPHY WALL BEDS 511 - 45th Street E. Saskatoon | 306.934.0660 www.majesticcabinets.ca |
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ExpErt Advice Mattress Shopping Tips for Couples
Mark Stevens, owner Wiseguys Mattresses 6-805 Circle Drive Saskatoon 306.652.1212 mstevens67@msn.com
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’ve said it before and I will say it again: a mattress is the single most important piece of furniture you will buy. You spend the most time on it, doing something that is so important to your overall health and well-being: sleeping. So it’s crucial that you get the right kind of mattress for you. But what about when you are shopping for two? When that purchase is a shared one, it takes even more consideration — and sometimes compromise — to make sure you’re getting the best for you and your mate. Here are some common questions couples ask about finding the right mattress.
WhaT kind of reSearCh Should We do before We buy? First, stay off the Internet. I know, it’s the go-to place for information, but when it comes to mattresses, what you’ll really find is a lot of misinformation. Manufacturer claims are made to sell you their product. Just because they say it’s the best, doesn’t make it so. And customer reviews are based on other people’s comfort needs and experiences. Be cautious about big sales too, because often a huge discount is just a sign that the mattress price was inflated in the first place. You have to try before you buy, and go for the most comfortable mattress you can afford. iS iT ok for uS To lie doWn on The MaTTreSS in The STore? Of course! Like I said, you have to try it out. Otherwise, how will you know if it’s comfortable? Lie down and put your feet up. Switch into the positions you usually sleep in. If you and your partner toss and turn, move around a little to see how the mattress responds. You’d never buy a TV without checking the picture quality, or purchase a car without taking it for a test drive, so don’t be shy to lie down and see how the mattress feels. Always make
sure you have a 30- to 60-day sleep satisfaction on your purchase so you can exchange it if it’s not working out for both of you. My parTner and i have CoMpleTely differenT ideaS of CoMforT. WhaT Should We do? Like all things in relationships, it might take a little compromise, but most of the time it’s possible to find a mattress that works for both of you. If one, or both of you, has particular back or body problems, knowledgeable staff can usually help steer you towards something that might work well. But your comfort is always the most important factor. If there is no way the two of you can agree, it is possible to purchase two different twin extra-long mattresses, and put them on a king-sized frame. This is not usually necessary, but sometimes couples do have completely different ideas of what makes a good night’s sleep. There a lot of purchases any couple will make together, and buying a good quality, comfortable mattress that works for both of you should be one of them. And remember, just like a relationship, if you take care of it, it will last for many years to come.
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Home Maintenance Musts for Winter Months By Apolline lucyk
As winter approaches, it is imperative to do maintenance work to prepare your home for the cold months ahead. To help you remember everything that needs to be done, Fine Homes has compiled a checklist to make it easier for you to get your house winter-ready in no time at all.
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Indoor Home Maintenance Check Your Indoor Heating System The fall is the best time to inspect your indoor heating system. SaskEnergy does a home checkup that tests the air quality and inspects for any furnace room hazards. This checkup also covers your chimney, thermostat and furnace switches, pilot safety systems, blower operation, burners, motor and fan, indoor gas lines, and the venting of all your natural gas appliances. This inspection is good to have done well before you begin using your furnace in the winter.
Test Your Sump Pump Your sump pump should be tested every few months to ensure it is still working — especially before a rainy season or before the cold months leading up to one. You can test your sump pump by simply pouring several gallons of water into it, slowly, to check that it turns on when it starts to fill.
Inspect Your Windows and Doors Check that the sealants on your windows and doors are still in good condition, and caulk around them to ensure that when they are closed, the spaces are sealed. Additionally, if you have older windows in your home, you may wish to consider upgrading them to ensure that you are retaining as much warm air inside of your house as possible.
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Outdoor Home Maintenance Check Your Roof Before the snow arrives, it’s important to check your roof for any loose, damaged or missing shingles, which could cause leaks during the winter or spring. If any shingles need to be replaced it will be worth your while to do so before the snow settles.
Prepare Gutters and Drainage System To prepare for the winter and eventual melting period ahead, it’s important to clean your gutters of all the leaves and the debris that has surely collected over the summer months. This will ensure that when the snow and ice from your roof eventually begin to melt, it can drain easily and not get trapped in the gutters and on your roof.
Prepare Your Outdoor Water System Before the weather dips below zero, make sure your exterior faucets are all turned off and your lawn-irrigation system is drained to prevent water freezing in the hose or pipes — which could cause your irrigation system serious damage.
Prepare Your Pool or Hot Tub Your pool or hot tub will need to be prepared for cold weather as well. The pool will need to be drained completely before winter. Water left in the pipes or filter will freeze during the winter months and cause serious damage. If you have a hot tub and wish to keep using it during the winter, make sure to change the water before the cold sets in — especially if it has been a few months since you have changed it. You will also need to check the heating cycle to ensure that the water always remains at a temperature high enough to prevent freezing.
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EXPERT ADVICE Winterize Your Home
Ken Eade owner 3 ‘N 1 Construction 306.229.8280 kpeade@shaw.ca www.3n1construction.ca
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t is that time of year again. Here are some common questions and my responses to winterizing your home.
Q: Will replacing my roof help winterize my home? How? A: Yes. The majority of roofs that are 10 years or older do not have the proper underlayments. We lay a self-adhering rubber membrane along the first 36-inches of the eave edge and in the roof valleys. It sticks to the sheeting on the roof and it’s a self-sealing membrane. After we drive a nail through it, that hole seals up again. The other underlayment we use is a synthetic membrane that we put over the remainder of the roof
surface. This gives you a sealed roof before the shingles even go on. A new roof with this added security will protect you from ice damming, a common problem in our climate, that occurs when water works its way under the shingles and freezes and expands.
through the roof. When you get heat escaping in the attic, it meets cold air and you get condensation on the roof decking on the inside of the house. Adequate roof venting allows heat to escape the roof attic and keeps it as close to the exterior temperature as possible.
Q: Is there anything I can check myself?
Q: When should I ask for a second opinion?
A: From the ground, homeowners can inspect their shingles for conditions like curling or fish-mouthing, which is when they open up and separate from one another. These problems commonly occur at the eave edge or in the roof valley, which is the highest traffic area for water and where shingles often prematurely fail.
A: A homeowner is completely within their rights to ask for a second quote or opinion at any stage. Our personal mandate is to spend a great deal of time talking to homeowners face-to-face and answering questions so they will make an educated decision not based on price but based on maximum bang for their dollar. If a homeowner isn’t getting answers to their questions about ventilation, they should ask for a second opinion.
Q: What things should a professional look for? A: A professional should definitely look for the same things as well as adequate roof venting. A house is a living, breathing entity and if you change one thing, it will affect another. Because of energy costs, homeowners are taking steps to seal up the exterior by putting on new vinyl siding, sealing up the house with better windows, doors and house wrap. Then you’ve got this envelope where the house could breath and now it can’t. There’s no other alternative for the air but to go
Q: How much time do I have? A: You should check out your roof before the snow flies. It’s not too late. Our quotes are valid for 15 days for protection on prices, but we don’t re-quote unless there are price changes in materials. We don’t want anyone to feel like they’re making a rushed decision because we’re giving them a lot of information and they need to feel comfortable when making a big purchase.
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Better Living Begins at Wheatland Fireplace By Melanie Furlong Photos Lisa Landrie
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hether you want to cozy up by the fire, let your tension dissolve in the hot tub or sear the perfect steak on the barbecue, you’ll have to go to Wheatland Fireplace to find the best of the best available on the market. Fireplaces have been Wheatland Fireplace’s specialty for 30 years, but recently their Saskatoon store has made a significant change by bringing on a brand new line of hot tubs called Bullfrog Spas. This manufacturer from Salt Lake City, Utah, has a patented JetPak Therapy System that is revolutionizing the hot tub industry. “Because of the JetPak system, Bullfrog Spas have up to 90 per cent less plumbing than traditional spas,” says Mike LePage, manager of Saskatoon’s Wheatland Fireplace. “Not only does that make them the most energy-efficient, but also the hot tub with the least service. It is the only leak-proof design on the market.” The JetPaks are removable and interchangeable with 16 different types of massages from which to choose. This allows owners to customize their hot tub to provide a unique and enjoyable massage in whichever seat of the tub they prefer. If a homeowner wants to re-design their hot tub, it’s just a matter of changing the JetPaks and they will immediately have a brand new experience. Every time you purchase a new JetPak, you also get a new warranty with it. LePage’s parents, Chuck and Kathy LePage, bought Wheatland Fireplace in October 2010. The couple moved to Regina to run the company and had their son use his plumbing background to service hot tubs and fireplaces for their clients. “I became a territory rep in Manitoba and Saskatchewan and then moved home to Saskatoon to manage the store here,” says LePage.
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Wheatland Fireplace has a reputation of selling the highest end product in any category, and they’ve sold the top brand in fireplaces since the beginning: the Canadian made Regency Fireplaces. Natural gas and wood-burning fireplaces, stoves and inserts in any style are all available through Regency. “There are traditional-style natural gas fireplaces with log sets inside, for example,” says LePage. “Or, if the house is more modern, there are contemporary fireplaces with linear styles and the rock crystal look. Regency has the best-looking, most elegant burn inside their fireplace, as well. It’s a very rich and natural look.” Besides the beautiful burn from Regency’s fireplaces and the esthetics of their units, the fireplaces are extremely efficient. “Regency’s fireplaces are steadily at 75 to 85 per cent efficiency,” says LePage. “That’s a testament to the excellent manufacturing at their Delta, B.C. plant.” Regency fireplaces are built to last and every unit comes with a limited lifetime
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Hot tubs and fireplaces can be used all year long, and so can barbecues. You won’t mind stepping out on the deck to barbecue on one of Wheatland Fireplace’s excellent barbecues or smokers this winter. They have a wide range of barbecues starting with the Swiss Grill, which has an infrared searing side-burner that’s capable of searing a steak in 30 seconds. If you’re looking for a high-quality outdoor kitchen, Bull BBQ carries a large variety of different styles of prefabricated kitchens that you can customize to your liking. They also carry high-end commercialgrade full barbecue carts. The Fire Magic line of barbecues are the highest end grills Wheatland Fireplace sells. “This is a beautiful-looking, lifetime grill,” says LePage. “You will never have to worry about buying another barbecue if you have one of these. It has absolutely every option available. This is the best product on the market.” Smoking has become a popular way of cooking for consumers, too. The Memphis Grill is a high-end stainless steel smoker that is capable of cooking any and everything that your convection oven or barbecue can do. This one-ofa-kind unit will replace every cooking appliance you have in your home.
LEFT Mike LePage, manager
warranty. “A fireplace is something you’ll have in your home for approximately 20 to 30 years,” says LePage. “Our customers want to enjoy their fireplaces and know they’re getting the best they can with their money.” Wheatland Fireplace has recently brought in a competitively priced brand of fireplaces called Kozy Heat. “This line is popular with local homebuilders,” says LePage. “It’s a great option that has the same components as Regency’s product, but the burns are significantly different. The Kozy Heat brand allows us to serve a wider demographic and provide a stylish, high-quality fireplace solution to every customer at a great value.”
If you’re building a new home, you may want to choose a fireplace, hot tub and barbecue all at once and have them rolled into your mortgage package. “Many of our customers are building new homes and they want to get topof-the-line stuff right off the bat so they don’t have to worry about replacing it in another few years,” says LePage. “Some homebuilders themselves are purchasing these products and selling them with their homes.” The unique products that are exclusive to Wheatland Fireplace make this store a must-visit destination for all homeowners who are looking for the best quality products for their homes. Better living truly does begin here. Wheatland Fireplace 625 1st Ave. North Saskatoon 306.249.4888 www.wheatlandfireplace.com
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Home is Around A
HeArTH By Tori Stafford
It’s the stuff Norman Rockwell paintings are made of: a pair of boots resting by the fire, a few mugs of cocoa perched nearby, and rosy-cheeked children warming their hands after a day outside in the brisk autumn air — the perfect image of a fall family day. Heart, happiness and a hearth.
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he traditional stone or brick fireplace surround dates back to the beginning of civilization. Then, hearths were where blacksmiths cast their iron, mothers simmered soup and families gathered for warmth and conversation. Today, the modern hearth can range from functional — to protect the area around the fireplace from damage, containing the fire — to fashionable, where the hearth is more or less a design statement. Although it has come a long way from the
purely functional design of the medieval era, the hearth still serves as the centrepiece and place that warms a home. This is why there are so many possibilities when it comes to options for hearth designs and the materials; today’s fireplaces and surrounds range from contemporary and sleek to rustic and rugged. Rock: A NAtuRAl optioN with RANge Drawing from the early designs, rock is an obvious choice when it comes to hearths, but the options are endless.
A natural and more organic take on using rock to create your hearth allows whatever rock you select to show in its natural form. If you’re looking to create a smaller hearth that is level with the floor, use rectangular or brick-shaped stone to combine both nature and design. For a more traditional route, old-world European-style hearths can incorporate rounded stones that appear to bubble out from their surface. Alternatively, stone-tile is a means of incorporating natural rock, such as slate or limestone, which can create
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same direction. In these designs, using marble, granite or quartz is more popular, and can create elaborate elegance or sleek simplicity depending on your choice of rock and colour. BRick:
BuildiNg
oN
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tRAditioN Brick hearths and mantles are a simple way to bring stately structure to a room, and make your house feel more like ‘home’. But brick is certainly not limited to the classic red, nor to the classic size, and, with a good mason, the options for building up a hearth ledge and creating a unique space opens many doors. Options such as built-in shelving or cubbyholes for logs and kindling contrast against light and airy or bright and dramatic wall colours, respectively.
can make your hearth more functional and
Stone hearths can be used to break up a room and can run from floor to ceiling, but emerging trends show a shift towards fireplaces that are centred on a wall with their hearth surrounds spanning a large horizontal portion of the space. This makes the hearth less of a focal point and more of a statement wall, and works well in large rooms where furniture faces the
Another popular way to use brick in
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save space in smaller rooms. hearths is a way that doesn’t show them at all — at least, not literally. More and more, painted brick has become a popular way to bring a shabby-chic or French-country inspired look into homes, with whitewashed brick proving a popular option for its versatility.
tile: A ModeRN tAke oN the tRAditioNAl heARth Lastly, tile is a surefire way to ensure your fireplace won’t look like any other when it comes to hearths and fireplace surrounds, thanks to the seemingly endless options today. How and what you choose to tile your hearth and/or surround with is dictated by budget and your imagination. Options include: smaller backsplash or mosaic tile, medium-sized square or rectangular tiles traditionally associated with kitchens or bathrooms, larger floor tile or any combination of the three. Tile hearths can be bright and colourful, evoking a Spanishinspired mosaic. They can also incorporate patterns or use two colours, such as royal blue and white, to inspire an air of French Provencal appeal. Conversely, tile hearths can serve as simple, clean and classic option, while white tile surrounding a blacked-out, mantleless fireplace proves a popular option. There are a plethora of choices to make once you’ve decided to go with tile, and with a talented and skilled tradesman or mason on your side, you can create a unique hearth that you won’t see anywhere else.
The Home Improvement
Concierge Matchmakers By Candace M. Fox Photos Megan Antoniuk Photography
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ave you ever been frustrated when trying to find a reputable contractor to handle your home project? When Kijenga’s co-founders Kevin Kindrachuk and Matt Ingrouille, both local entrepreneurs, did a study on how homeowners felt about the process of finding and hiring contractors for their repairs and home renovations, they found 96 per cent of homeowners found the process extremely stressful. Cue in Kijenga, the online service connecting homeowners to professional and certified contractors, saving them time, money and their sanity. Completing over $1
million in projects this summer, the increasingly popular concierge service is free, easy and, dare we say, fun to use. COFFEE AND A QUOTE Regardless of how big or small your project is, Kijenga will provide you with the experts you need. Making the process quick and painless, the Kijenga team does the bulk of the work. Homeowners simply go to the Kijenga website, quickly fill in details regarding their home improvement project, hit “enter” and relax. “We usually shock homeowners with how fast we get in touch with them, and they usually don’t expect us to show up with coffee
in hand. We’re all about smiles so when the project is complete, we stop by to ensure our homeowner is happy,” state the company’s co-founders. Arriving at the residence, the Kijenga professional estimator goes over the project at hand – gathering information, taking measurements, snapping pictures and helping to educate homeowners along the way. A custom report is compiled and given to the homeowner as the first step in connecting them with a verified professional to complete the work. The report lists valuable information with the third party unbiased
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“From the time I posted the job to the time of job completion was under two weeks! Kijenga is a great tool and service that is super easy to use and a great way to link contractors with home owners. ” — Dan Seneker, homeowner
“So nice to have one website for everything, from flooring to painting. If you’re a homeowner, you have to use Kijenga for your next home renovation project.” — Chelsey Wilde, homeowner estimate of the project being the key. Also included is a photo gallery, project drawings, project checklist, contractor interview worksheet, home maintenance schedule, home construction FAQ and special offers from local retailers. From that point, the expert contractors that match receive all the information they need on the qualified homeowner’s project. Kijenga connects the homeowner directly with the contractor to get started. Nifty? We think so. CERTIFIED AND VERIFIED Kijenga does an extensive screening of all their trusted contractors, ensuring they are certified and verified. Once Kijenga connects the homeowner to a trusted pro, they are able to view that contractor’s information, certifications, credentials, picture portfolio of their work and reviews from happy homeowners. “All of our pros must have liability insurance, WCB, business license and references in order for us to even consider them. We really want to offer a VIP experience…the red carpet of home renovations; it doesn’t need to be a stressful process and we
ensure that it isn’t,” explains Kindrachuk and Ingrouille. New to the concierge matchmaking services is financing for homeowner’s projects, an added stress relief Kijenga is happy to offer. The online concierge service is a winwin for both the homeowners and the contractors. Companies like On The Mark Residential, Go2Guys Inc, Renoworxs General Contracting, and Discovery Construction Services are more than excited a trusted service distinguishes them as the professionals they are. “Connecting prospective clients to contractors that have the expertise they are looking for simplifies both ends of the process,” states Shane Regush, owner of Go2Guys Inc.
Kijenga www.kijenga.com 1.844.KIJENGA
PREVIOUS PAGE L-R Matt Ingrouille (COO), Denis Rooke (Developer), Kevin Kindrachuk (CEO); Location courtesy On The Mark Residential THIS PAGE, LEFT, TOP - BOTTOM Photo courtesy RenoWorks; Photo courtesy Go2Guys Inc; Photo courtesy Discovery Construction Services BOTTOM RIGHT Location courtesy On The Mark Residential
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Proud members of It's all about
the experience.
Delivering quality, service and satisfaction for
over 35 years.
P: 306.978.9665 | C: 306.514.7040 sales@renoworxs.com | www.renoworxs.com
When building a home with OTM Residential, it’s all about the experience. Bring us your family and friends to build or renovate with us and we’re going to reward you with the ultimate experience of your choice!
306-280-8494 mark@otmresidential.com
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Every customer is a reference every time. 306.220.0533 www.go2guysinc.com
306.280.2723 discovery.brad@gmail.com discoveryconstruction.ca Discover the Service Difference
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ExpErt Advice Getting the Durex Job Done Integrated Right Building System
Robert Mellau owner AL-RO Acrylic Stucco Ltd. 502C –– 47th 47th Street 502C StreetEast East 306.382.0818 Saskatoon al-ro@shaw.ca 306.382.0818 www.al-ro.ca al-ro@shaw.ca www.al-ro.ca
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rior to the 21st century, stucco was applied directly to a he local economy building’s exterior.isItbooming: had to Saskatchewan hasthe theweather second be applied when best economy in the entire world was warm and there was not too much and the lowest unemployment moisture in the air. Such limitations can rate in the country. Everywhere you look, be managed if one lives in an area where you see new homes and businesses being there is little snowfall. However, in a built and existing homes and offices country like Canada, where the winters undergoing renovations. can be long and extremely cold with huge banks of snow,economy it significantly the A thriving andlimited a busy construction constructionseason. industry mean that new businesses in decade, all the trades springing Over the past thingsare have started up overnight. Some of these companies are to change. Pro-active and innovative
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headed by well-trained and experienced people; others are not. Some fly-by-night companies are down-right disreputable, willing to make fantastic promises in order to get your money in their pockets. As a result, the happy smiles of many new home owners are found side-by-side with the frustrated faces of those home owners who only a few years after moving in have made the unpleasant discovery that the homes they so desired and love are not as structurally sound as they had expected. For Ken and Royane Sparrow their dream home turned into a nightmare this spring when they discovered that the company hired to do their original work had not only companies, suchstucco as Al-Ro Acrylic Stucco used a sub-standard style methods of construction in Saskatoon, devised that but had done resulting in allowed them sotoimproperly, install stucco yearleaking windows and water damage. round. This was done through the use of tarpaulins heaters. Acrylic This method works When weand at AL-RO Stucco Ltd. very well fora call residential low-rise first received from the and Sparrows this commercial However, it issome not spring, it wasbuildings. to come out and check leaking windows andtocracking stucco that ideal when it comes doing the exterior had been installed by another company of high-rise buildings. five years ago. Our Operations Manager, Ten ago, Durabond Marioyears Stanculescu, went out toProducts examine Ltd., a company that their home, determinemanufactures what neededand to distributes be done andhigh give quality them anconstruction estimate on products, a new method of the cost. Itdeveloped quickly became evident to him stucco Knownofasthe theexisting Durex despiteapplication. the dark colour stucco that there System was extensive Integrated Building (IBS), thiswater new damage to thelightweight exterior ofsteel theirstud home that system allows panels
was going to cost much more to repair than the owners were anticipating. It is always difficult to have to tell someone that their home needs many, much more costly repairs than they realized, especially when it is next-to-impossible for someone with an untrained eye to recognize the underlying damage and problems by simply looking at the surface of the building. The Sparrows correctly checked around to learn what type of reputation we at AL-RO had and spoke with several of our former customers before trusting our claims and allowing us to proceed with the removal of their existing stucco. to be prefabricated in a been workshop When the stucco had takenwithin off, thea controlled environment then installed Sparrows could see thatand Mario’s original on site. This method is perfect for high rise assessment of the extent of the damage and repairs been correct. “Once we buildings andhad allows exterior construction agreedtotocontinue the extensive repairduring work, ALwork on them the RO had a crew on-site within the week,” winter months. stated Royane. “They had different people Durex IBStopanels aretasks; constructed on a assigned different every person steel framework with anAll exterior grade had their own specialty. the workers were veryboard professional polite as gypsum over theand framing. Atwere this all thethe subcontractors they hired. They point, Exterior Insulation and Finish were careful to as keep levelsisdown System (EIFS), partthe ofnoise the panel, used and didn’t have loud music blaring.” to complete the section. EIFS consists of several component layers. is engineered, Knowing it is difficult toItfocus on your manufactured installed as a you system. work and do aand good job when are by chaos also moisture having a Itsurrounded is not stucco. First, and a liquid great forapplied. the people for also whom and airrespect barrier is This can be
we work as well their property, AL-RO crews keep their work areas clean and tidy. Royane confirmed, “They were very careful not to mess up any other areas of the house or yard. Everything that was removed was carefully stored. Messes were swept up nightly. Trash was put into garbage cans, not allowed to blow around. We were very impressed by and appreciative of their efforts in these regards.” “Everything went very smoothly. There were no wait times, except what was caused by inclement weather,” noted Ken. “They were very meticulous and very aware of everything. They paid attention to our needs and concerns. Robert or Mario came by once or twice a day to check on progress, making sure everything was going according to plan. The workers were never hesitant to call them with any concerns, knowing Robert or Mario would drive out right away to deal with any issues that arose.” In the end, the entire exterior of the Sparrow’s home had to be redone. AL-RO
replaced the existing, improperly-installed conventional stucco work with a stateof-the-art Exterior Insulation and Finish System (EIFS) and top-of-the-line acrylic stucco finish. The EIFS system’s several component layers include a liquid moisture and air barrier, Styrofoam insulation, a specially-designed drainage cavity and two durable, crack-resistant polymer-modified base coats topped off with two layers of acrylic top coats in a colour tinted to meet the Sparrow’s exact specifications. “The insulated foam layer that AL-RO installed is great,” noted Royane. “It is an excellent noise barrier. I can really hear the difference between our old conventional stucco and our new Durex EIFS, installed by AL-RO.” The effective and long-lasting EIFS system can only be applied by manufacturer certified practitioners. As far as nationwide certification is concerned, in Saskatchewan, there are only two mechanics certified as QAP (Quality Assurance Program) Level 4 EIFS mechanics by EIFS Council of Canada and they are both with AL-RO, the province’s only QAP certified EIFS applicator company.
This is one horror story that has a happy ending. The Sparrows finally have the home they always dreamed of owning. At AL-RO, we are pleased to have been able to provide our clients with a quality product and service. I always feel like the Grinch when I have to tell clients’ bad news and explain to them that repairs are going to cost significantly more than they had expected. My employees and I work hard to ensure that when these same clients pay us at the end of the project, they write the cheque with smiles on their faces. In the case of the Sparrows, we received hugs, as well. This is such a great feeling and it is why I love doing what I do. To avoid additional costs and headaches when building your new home, take the time to thoroughly examine the history and reputation of the contractors you hire. Check out their references. Examine their work. It is your home, your money and your peace of mind that are on the line..
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On Bulbs, Banding and Letting Mother Nature Take Her Course By Ken A. Beattie, NPD, Ph.D.
Autumn is a season of great changes, a little anxiousness and a whole lot of work for most of us in the gardening end of things. At my house, to-do lists abound and the workload increases as the days shorten, creating the need to get it all completed before nastier weather is upon us. And so it is time yet again to plant spring flowering bulbs; with great wonder I ask, where did the bulbs from last year disappear?
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hen planting tulips, crocus, daffodils, scilla and other spring flowering bulbs, remember this — they require good drainage, in particular on Prairie soils. There is nothing that will destroy even the best of bulbs faster than heavy, sodden gumbo soils. One trick is to incorporate a mixture of kitty litter and good topsoil in the bulb beds. This strange mixture ensures good drainage, as well as a sensible nutrient level for the developing bulbs. If you are just beginning to plant bulbs, or wish to rework the soil, add a few handfuls of bone meal in as well. Spring flowering bulbs require a rooting period before fall frost, so planting and watering them in during late September is appropriate; actually, you can plant right up until the ground is frozen, oddly enough. Next on the to-do list is trunk banding for fall cankerworm. This process is not uncommon in the Prairie provinces; both spring and fall varieties of cankerworms are a terrible nuisance, not to mention the damage they inflict on trees. Autumn is when the sticky bands are replaced, installed or reglued. These bands are often mistaken for prevention of Dutch Elm disease, as many of the street trees are American Elm — a favourite food for both species of cankerworm. The female fall cankerworm will start to travel up tree trunks just after a good frost hits, hoping to reach the canopy to lay neatly aligned rows of eggs before the severe frost kills off her and the males.
The sticky bands are simply constructed of a strip of household insulation approximately 10 cm wide and long enough to girdle the tree trunk at chest height. This makeshift Band-Aid is then fixed to the trunk using duct tape, which comes in a rainbow of colours if you are feeling creative. Most bands are sealed with clear plastic, however any type works just fine. The sticky material can be purchased, but experience has shown that white axel grease performs well in cold weather because it doesn’t form a skin, like some other products may. Smear the plastic wrap of the band entirely, and now the trap is set. Naturally, the band is required to be sticky in cold weather or the entire project is not successful. “Mamma” cankerworm will get stuck as she attempts to manoeuvre
over the band (she can’t go under the band due to the insulation). Ensure that you pack the band firmly against the tree trunk to fill all the crevices and furrows with insulation. The bands can be removed either in late November (weather dependant) or rejigged in the spring for the next onslaught of spring cankerworms. If you decide to refurbish the old bands from the fall, be sure the insulation is not moist and compressed. If this is the case, it is best to replace the band(s) entirely. This process is a great fundraising idea for Boy Scouts, Girl Guides and a variety of service clubs. Our trees are banded by a young entrepreneur for only a few dollars each. Once again, I remind all you tidy gardeners that allowing Mother Nature to put the garden to bed is still the best way. Avoid clipping, cutting, raking and virtually sanitizing your shrub and perennial beds; just leave everything there until the spring. Lady bugs, and a host of beneficial insects, find winter quarters in the detritus of your garden, not to mention tall stalks of perennials will catch snow and hold it for the season. This simple “do nothing” approach ensures your garden is well insulated for the severe cold and water will be abundant when things finally thaw. Additionally, in years of high rainfall, a scalped garden may wash away, whereas one covered with leaf litter and old stalks may not. Enjoy the season.
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EXPERTAdvice EXPERT Advice ExpErt Why Consider Advice Synthetic Turf? Why Consider Synthetic Turf? The Fall “To-Do” List
Mark Nowakowski No Mow Landscaping Mark Nowakowski Mark Nowakowski 306.261.7392 No Mow Landscaping mark @perfectturfgrass.ca 306.261.7392 No Mow Landscaping mark@perfectturfgrass.ca www.perfectturfgrass.ca 306.261.7392 www.perfectturfgrass.ca mark @perfectturfgrass.ca www.perfectturfgrass.ca
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s the snow melts and our thoughts start turning to and spring, he days become shorter the are yoursnow emotions s temperature the and with our atmelts nightfilled begins to thoughts start spring, excitement or the dread atturning seeing the yard dip... arrival of myto favourite season here! are your isemotions filled some with again? Has Rover left you While pulling your people summer is excitement dread at when seeing thegrass yard hair out?think Hasornegatively the attempt to grow over, I love this time year.pulling Thefeeling leaves again? Has pine Rover leftofyou your under the trees left you are changing colour and it’s a great time hair out? Has the may attempt grow grass defeated? There be ato product to to plan ahead for spring. under pine trees left to you feeling turn thethe tears of frustration smiles of defeated? There may be ayour product to joy snow melts. Yes,when you the will always have fall list of chores to do. If your lawn was not turn the tears of frustration to smiles of The mostthe popular trend everything you wanted it landscaping to be, now joy when snow melts.in which 30 per each wouldhas beseen the growth perfectoftime to cent overseed year thepopular lastgrass. fivetrend years is synthetic your for existing Thisin―will create a The most landscaping turf or has “fake grass.” You’ve of faux much more lush lawn inheard thecent spring. which seen growth of 30 per each Another waylast tofive get years a head on a year for the ― isstart synthetic beautiful spring lawn is to heard apply aofgood turf or “fake grass.” You’ve faux quality fall fertilizer. Remember to also have your sprinklers blown out to avoid cracking the sprinkler heads when the first freeze catches us all off guard.
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fur, right? Well, now the hottest product in beautifying your yard is faux grass. Manufacturers have fur, right? Well,such now as thePerfect hottestTurf product developed turf products in beautifying your yardthat is have faux lower grass. lustre, thinner blades and a softer feel to Manufacturers such as Perfect Turf have emulate theturf appearance and feel real developed products that haveoflower grass. think everyone lustre, Ithinner blades andremembers a softer feelthe to days of the appearance indoor/outdoor green rug emulate and feel of real or the first appearances of “Astro Turf.” grass. I think everyone remembers the Those initial forays into synthetic turf are days of the indoor/outdoor green rug long gone. turf is now available in or the first The appearances of “Astro Turf.” different lengths and colours. There Those initial forays into synthetic turf are are also made for long now gone.specialty The turf products is now available in challenging applications. different lengths and colours. There are The of leaves products is a time-honoured also raking now specialty made for Some of the most challenging of tradition with which many of areas us have challenging applications. landscaping are being rectified with a love/hatethatrelationship. Everyone synthetic turf are dealing withinto the Some of the most challenging areas of remembers raking the leaves a loyal, giant loving family companion that digs and landscaping that turns are being rectified with heap just to take jumping on them. destroys or all your landscaping syntheticmost turf are dealing with the chore loyal, Whether you love orofhate it, this dreams. With the emergence of synthetic loving family companion that digs and needs to be done. Have some fun with it turf you are now to have aHalloween. beautiful, destroys most orable all of your and fill some pumpkin bags forlandscaping manicured, lawn of while still dreams. Withwell-kept the emergence synthetic enjoying your canine companion. There Fall is also a time of celebration. Now turf you are now able to have a beautiful, are nochance morewell-kept dead mud holes is the to reapspots, the harvest the manicured, lawn whileof still or bare patches where nothing bountiful garden you planted. Thegrows hours enjoying your canine companion. There anymore. If and youdead have spots, several or a of weeding are mud adogs forgotten arewatering no more holes memory as you harvest the beautiful, small concentrated area for your pets, a or bare patches where nothing grows fresh vegetables andseveral fruit from your specialty canine is available anymore. If youproduct have dogs with or a labour of love. But, to to help keep reaping thea increased drainage the small concentrated area foralleviate your pets, rewards of a beautiful garden you must issue of waste. specialty canine product is available with now put the effort in ensure another increased drainage to to help alleviate the Synthetic turf helpsnext alleviate problem successful bounty year. Weeding issue of waste. areas thatis are challenging to in the fall oftenquite forgotten, and if not landscapers or helps homeowners, such as diligently care of, the weeds will Synthetic taken turf alleviate problem areas around pools. With synthetic come you in the spring. areas back that toarehaunt quite challenging to Keep up on the and remember landscapers or weeding, homeowners, such as to replenish the soil. areas around pools. With synthetic Everyone gets excited at the thought of creating beautiful garden spaces or flower beds in the spring, but the fall is a
turf, pool owners don’t have to worry about clippings clogging filters or mud draining your don’t pool after turf, poolinto owners have watering to worry the natural grass. Areas between about clippings clogging filters orstone mud pavers areinto nowyour splashed grass. draining pool with afterfaux watering Remember area under your swing the natural the grass. Areas between stone set as aare kidnow thatsplashed always had pavers withtwo fauxbrown grass. streaks fromthe dragging your feet? Well, Remember area under your swing not set anymore. as a kid that always had two brown streaks from dragging your feet? Well, It’s just problem areas that have seen notnot anymore. a surge in synthetic turf usage. Many daycares and play centres the It’s not just problem areasare thatreaping have seen rewards super-soft designed a surge ofinthe synthetic turfgrass usage. Many very important in thisare planning. specifically fortime these applications. daycares and play centres reapingYes, the Frank Vervalcke with Perfect Landscape the package says spring bulbs, but if you rewards of the super-soft grass designed Solutions, used Perfect Turf’s “Play specifically for applications. don’t planthas them in these the fall they won’t be Soft” which specifically designed Frank ―Vervalcke with Perfect Landscape blooming in theisspring. Now is the ideal with kids and play centres in bed, mind ― Solutions, has used Perfect Turf’s “Play time to plan your spring flower and and has had outstanding results and Soft” ― which is specifically designed to be planting trees and shrubs (they are feedback from his customers in the with kidson and probably sale,play too!).centres in mind ― Regina area. and has had outstanding results and feedback from his customers the For new homeowners planningin your Whether you are trying to fix a problem Regina landscaping area. spring now is a great time. area, enhance new landscaping that Contractors are as would notyou have been winding functional with Whether areusually trying to fix a down problem the weather turns and can dedicate time traditional sod, or create a play centre, area, enhance new landscaping that to planning your spring In the fall, synthetic turf offers a lotproject. offunctional answers. With would not have been with so many new and innovative products reputable landscapers are booking into traditional sod, or create a play centre, in synthetic turf, invite you to early, visitWith our synthetic offers a lot of answers. the spring.turf Also, ifI the snow flies the website at www.perfectturfgrass.ca so many new and innovative products fall projects get moved into the spring;Toif make an appointment ofearly our in synthetic turf, I invite you one to visit our you want to ensure yourwith work done designers, please visit our showroom website at www.perfectturfgrass.ca To in the year, plan ahead now! and product would workofbest makeseeanwhat appointment with one our for you. visitplease designers, visit our showroom Come our landscape designers and see what product would work best and get that spring landscaping project for you. underway. We would love to help you create the awe-inspiring colours and scents that have become synonymous with spring in Saskatoon!
BEAUTIFY YOUR SURROUNDINGS AND ADD VALUE TO YOUR PROPERTY
Specializing in Complete Yard Landscape Construction • Rough grading to ensure proper surface drainage • Finish grading • Sub-surface drainage • Paving stone • Retaining wall • Architectural grade landscape lighting • Outdoor rooms • Outdoor fireplaces • Pergolas, privacy louvers,
screened-in rooms • Irrigation system installation • Natural stone patios and pathways • Mulch • Shrub and flower bed design and installation • Water features • Crushed rock and other decorative aggregates • Sod installation
LANDSCAPE CONSTRUCTION
306.280.6609
luke@city-gardens.ca | www.city-gardens.ca
Enjoy More of Your Life
GET OUT of the House By Trina Annand
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ummer is over and vacations are behind us. As the months cool off it’s important to not slip into hibernation mode. When the days become shorter there is no need to stay stuck in the house. Individual and group activities help make the most of our off-hours. An active pastime combines the best of both worlds, creating a healthy lifestyle and providing a way to shake off those back-to-work and cold-weather blues. Indoor rock climbing has gained popularity over the years and provides enthusiasts with skills that can easily translate to outdoor rock climbing, too. Local climbing facilities have programs for all ages and skill levels, making it a perfect family interest or alternative to organized sports. Indoor skate parks allow skaters of all ages to hone their skills in the cooler months, improving balance and mobility along the way. Yoga is also swiftly becoming a family affair with classes for parents, kids, babies and even pet yoga
in certain areas. Improving health and flexibility, yoga can be the the best way to relax after a long day, even improving confidence. These active hobbies prove that taking care of yourself doesn’t have to feel like a chore. Not all classes have to be boring. Cooking classes are a great way to teach kids skills that will last a lifetime, or provide the perfect way to create a romantic anniversary dinner. Taking joy in the preparation of food means you’re not simply grabbing food on the way out the door, rather allowing eating to be an event. This active preparation also lends itself to a healthy lifestyle by ensuring that junk food isn’t on the menu and fresh ingredients are abundant. Cooking doesn’t have to be complex to be rewarding, and it is a great activity for the whole family. Families looking to regain that vacation feeling without travelling for hours may want to try a staycation. Exploring the local area like a tourist is about exploring
the museums, historic sites and galleries that make a community unique and special. Rediscover what you love about your city, whether it is an abundance of unique architecture, fantastic local parks or an immersive historic experience. Wildlife excursions take place year-round and present an opportunity to make family time an educational event while sharing the wonder of nature. Those still looking for the feeling of a getaway might want to rent a cabin for the weekend. Just because there is snow on the ground doesn’t mean that there aren’t fantastic things to do in Saskatchewan. When back to the doldrums of everyday life with work and school schedules, it’s important to take the time for yourself and to feel like a family. Without family time, it may feel like you are just people who live together. Though organized sports, dance and martial arts are perennial favourites for active families, there are always options for those willing to think outside the box.
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Fun, fitness & dedication for boys & girls of all ages 35 Ye a r s o f s u c c e s s We Have Moved • Open house September 6th, 10–4 • New 15,000 sq. ft. facility • Located 1521 Quebec Avenue • Exciting new classes! • Online registration
Classes • Kindergym • Trampoline classes • Recreation, semi-competitive and competitive • Adult, teen and preschool drop-in • Urban gymnastics • School groups welcome • Birthday & team parties
Call 306.664.7030 for more information or visit our website at www.taiso.ca 1521 Quebec Avenue | 306.664.7030 | www.taiso.ca |
about taiso • National training centre • Home of three past Olympians • Home of national team members • Head coach Markos Baikas is Junior National Coach of Canada
Whether it’s traditional table games, the thrill of the slots or a night out to enjoy quality performances, the Dakota Dunes Casino has the excitement you’re looking for. Located on the historical Whitecap Dakota First Nation, 20 minutes south of Saskatoon on Chief Whitecap Trail (Highway 219), the Dakota Dunes Casino offers a spectacular view of the South Saskatchewan River Basin to go along with topnotch entertainment. The beautiful Vegas-style casino wows visitors from all over the world. The casino prides itself on friendly, courteous service, and the traditional First Nations’ hospitality is unsurpassed anywhere. Boasting over 85,000 sq. ft., guests enjoy the large gaming floor, multi-purpose room, restaurant and a smoking room with full-service bar.
Chef Rusty Penno is renowned for his culinary expertise. Chef Penno and his crew, along with Mel Schafer and the multi-purpose room staff, work diligently to ensure every event, whether a business meeting, educational seminar or wedding celebration, is memorable. Tricia Brass, Dakota Dunes Casino Human Resources Manager, works closely with her team to ensure a diverse workforce and high-quality benefits for anyone seeking employment, be it fulltime, part-time or casual.
Excitement Lives Here
TOP Executive Chef Rusty Penno and his crew ... Making everything at the Dunes delectable. BOTTOM LEFT These folks handle the multi-purpose room. For bookings, call Mel Schafer at 306.667.6471. MIDDLE HR Manager, Tricia Brass ... Taking pride in employing the very best! RIGHT The multi-purpose room set up for a wedding reception.
Dakota Dunes Casino 306.667.6464
www.DakotaDunesCasino.com Please play responsibly.
MUCH MORE THAN FITNESS & SELF-DEFENCE
KOPPERUD TAEKWON-DO By Karen Cowan Photos Kerri Froese Photography
K
opperud TaeKwon-Do Schools’ innovative approach to martial arts, self-defense and fitness instruction encourages a healthy lifestyle and a positive, generous attitude toward others. “Unlike many gyms, where mirrors promote vanity and ego, our mirrors are used for instruction, correction and motivation,” Grandmaster Scott Kopperud, owner of Kopperud TaeKwon-Do Schools, laughs. “Everybody, of all
shapes and sizes, looks good in a TaeKwon-Do uniform!” Kopperud’s storied career started when he was 10 years old. His Sunday school teacher was a Green Beret Korean War veteran who convinced his rowdy class if they studied hard, every third class would be a Judo lesson. Kopperud soon learned of a TaeKwon-Do class at the college near his home. Too young to join, Kopperud watched every class for a month until the
ABOVE Senior Instructor Matthew Kopperud, III-Dan Black-Belt BELOW Chief Instructor David Kopperud, IV-Dan Black-Belt Photos Courtesy of Kopperud TaeKwon-Do
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ABOVE LEFT Grand Master Kopperud demonstrating in Koln, Germany. RIGHT Grand Master S.L.Kopperud, IX-Dan Black-Belt
instructor took pity on him and let him take part at the back of the room. “I quickly became the pet of the group and the rest is history.”
a dark back alley and you hear a noise coming out from the darkness, not many people would say, ‘Wow, am I ever glad I know aerobics!’”
Four years later, the club folded and 14-year-old Kopperud, who wasn’t yet a black belt, took over and opened his own school the following year. “It worked and I’ve been training for 43 years,” he said.
Self-protection is just one of the many reasons people consider martial arts training. Whether you are a preschooler, teenage gymnast or an adult beginner, TaeKwon-Do can easily replace other fitness activities or a typical gym membership. “Classes are conducted in a safe, guided way so no matter what fitness level you start at, you are going to improve dramatically and attain higher levels.”
He is a 9th degree black belt, the highest degree in TaeKwon-Do, and the owner of 18 Western Canada locations, including one conveniently located at 2301 Faithfull Ave., just three blocks north of Circle Drive. He also has international affiliates who have adopted his curriculum and unique methods of instruction. “We’ve had moms and dads join TaeKwon-Do to be with and support their children, and after a year or two the parents are hooked,” Kopperud said. Parents are also invited to watch lessons from the foyer or right in studio. The friendly, family-oriented studio boasts physical fitness, self-confidence and camaraderie. It has a modern, innovative approach to traditional martial arts training. “If people think it’s maybe not for them, it’s often because of a wrong perception of who we are and what we are about. If you can get in shape and learn a martial art at the same time, why not kill two birds with one stone?” Kopperud notes, “If you are walking down
Kopperud TaeKwon-Do includes fitness, technique training, routines, self-defense and controlled sparring. Competitions are not required, but many people enjoy the challenge and the opportunity to travel and meet new “family” members. Expect to be rewarded physically, but also surprised at the mental transformation you’ll experience and new friendships you’ll make. “TaeKwon-Do is really just a vehicle to help others in the world. I’ve been able to share my faith and values in a positive way with a growing family. It’s not an easy road, but the rewards are amazing.” Kopperud TaeKwon-Do 2301 Faithfull Avenue 306.934.7447 www.unifiedtkd.com
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Fun and Fitness for Everyone
Can-Am Gymnastics Club offers classes for everyone from infant to adult! We have the most recreational programming options for both boys and girls including trampoline and tumbling, rhythmic, gymnastics and dance, and acro for dance and cheer. Can-Am has a strong developmental, provincial and national program in both women’s artistic and trampoline and tumbling. We offer Date Nights! Let Can-Am Gymnastics Club worry about childcare while you enjoy a date night out. Your child will be guaranteed to enjoy a fun, active and entertaining evening. Parties and Bookings: Ask us for more information regarding fun and hassle-free birthday parties. We also offer bookings for schools, parties, wind ups and parent groups. New this year: we are also offering Multisport cross training bookings. Bring your team to train at Can-Am!
Call today for more information! Fall session runs September to December. Registration for Winter session begins online November 5th.
Can-Am Gymnastics 3702 Mitchelmore Ave, Saskatoon 306.931.4033 www.canamgymnastics.ca
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SASKATOON
REALTOR
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#1 RE/MAX® Team Saskatoon
L-R Wayne Wilson; Kelli Meckelborg; Jeff Will; Sean Wilson; Mel Wilson
Brett Charmaine Reagan Ron Dan Clark Scheidl Morris Baliski Baliski Bader Dziadyk 306.262.6689 306.270.7172 306.290.7377 306.221.0421 306.371.7760 306.227.2036
www.saskatoonassociates.com
Saskatoon’s Real Estate Team Experience, knowledge and trust is what we are about. Wayne Wilson 306.251.0591 waynewilson@remax.net
Kelli Meckelborg 306.262.3442 kellimeckelborgremax@gmail.com
Jeff Will 306.281.8883 jeffwill@remax.net
Sean Wilson 306.251.1959 seanwilson@remax.net
www.saskatoonrealestateteam.com
Angela Porrelli
Your Saskatoon Real Estate Agent Angela Porrelli angporrelli@gmail.com www.angelaporelli.com 306.242.6000
C: 306.291.4664
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SASKATOON
REALTOR
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Realize Your Real Estate Dreams
Honesty, Respect, Communication
Norm Grodecki Residential Specialist E&M Real Estate Group Inc. norm.emrealestategroup@gmail.com www.normg.ca
Kari Calder REALTOR速 kari@saskatoonrealestate.net www.saskatoonrealestate.net
306.514.7997
306.717.1277
Given the Thumbs up by
Ryan Bohle 306.717.8654 ryan@saskatoonrealestate.com
Your Real Estate Connection Caroline Bickle Hallmark Realty cb-canada@hotmail.com
306.880.9712
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TRUSTED Saskatoon.com
Henry Moulin 306.221.9221 henry@saskatoonrealestate.com
Henry Moulin & Associates Coldwell Banker ResCom Realty Henry Moulin & Associates www.saskatoonrealestate.com
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HOME SERVICES
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Home Staging, Interior Design, Home Cleaning
The Foundation of Your Project Starts Here
Fresh Living 306.FRESH.10 (306.373.7410) info@fresh-living.ca | fresh-living.ca |
Nunweiler Design & Draft 119 Maningas Bend, Saskatoon | 306.382.5414 info@nunweilerdesign.com | www.nunweilerdesign.com |
Fresh Living offers a suite of services that help you sell your home, value your time, mind your health, transform your space & respect our environment.
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Professional drafting company focusing on the best plans for your residential construction. Aesthetically & structurally balanced designs and 3D renderings. Routine site visits once construction begins.
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Join a great team! We are expanding and looking for sales staff, editors, writers, designers and more. If you have what it takes to work in the dynamic publishing industry, we’d love to hear from you. careers@finelifestyles.ca
Rescuing Rooms and Saving Dollars
Realistic Redesign works with your existing furniture and decor to make the most of your space. Don’t reinvent . . . build upon your personal style. Realistic Redesign 306.229.1982 | barbara@realisticredesign.com www.realisticredesign.com | |
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INTERIOR DECORATING STAGING KITCHEN DESIGN AND COLOUR CONSULTATION
Chantelle Butterfield, owner
Style, imagination and experience for home owners and builders in and around Saskatoon. Call Chantelle today for your in-home consultation and discover how every space can be beautiful . . . and Funktional.
306.227.3008 | chantelle@funktionalspace.com | www.funktionalspace.com |
1 - 411 Confederation Drive, Saskatoon | 306.384.7000 office@cookeinsurance.com | www.cookeinsurance.com
Stunning
staircases
Let a DAG-Wood staircase take you to the next level… …you’ll know when you’ve found exactly what you’ve been looking for.
660 Service Road North, Osler 306.239.2177 | info@staircasesk.com | _