Fine Homes Winnipeg Spring 2015

FineHomes FineHomes SPRING 2015 | VOLUME 2 ISSUE 1

WINNIPEG

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SCOTT MCGILLIVRAY

THE GREAT ROOM SUMPTUOUS BATHROOMS STARTING PLANTS AT HOME

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first word

FineHomes WINNIPEG

With Fine Lifestyles editor Brandi Parnell

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n the Prairies, spring is welcomed with open arms.

Although winter was not especially cold, nor was the snow unbearable, it will be wonderful to feel warmth once again. Welcome to our first Fine Homes Winnipeg issue of 2015.

Leo Tolstoy said, “Spring is the time of plans and projects.”

In this issue we have everything you may need for your spring plans and projects. Whether you’re in the market for a new home, wanting to transform the one you’re in or looking for interior inspiration, we have something for you.

Our cover story feature is one we unveil with great pride. In this issue, we welcome HGTV’s Scott McGillivray as a new contributing writer; you may recognize him from the popular show Income Property but you will certainly remember him for his well-constructed advice.

As the snow melts and we look forward to the bountiful produce soon to be planted, start planning your dream kitchen or retile your kitchen back splash. Just be sure to take us along with you.

www.finelifestyles.ca Volume 2, Issue 1 Editor Brandi Parnell brandip@finelifestyles.ca Art Direction Lisa Redden, Senior Design Candace Haiko, Deanne Bell, Ghislaine Moffitt Staff Writers Courtney Tait, Henny Buffinga, Mel Furlong, Tobie Hainstock, Tonya Lambert, Tori Stafford, Trina Annand Cover Photography Richard Sibbald Photography BTL Wedding, Joel Boily, Shawn Fillion Contributing Writers Carly Peters Distribution & Subscriptions kellym@finelifestyles.ca

Warmer days are just around the corner!

Brandi Parnell

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Rhonda Tannahill Associate Publisher – Winnipeg rhondat@finelifestyles.ca 204.430.2266

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Melissa Tannahill Michele Prysazniuk Advertising Sales Manager michelep@finelifestyles.ca 204.794.4367 melissat@finelifestyles.ca 204.612.2473

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Crystal Johnson crystalj@finelifestyles.ca 204.688.7774

Natalie Gagnon natalieg@finelifestyles.ca 204.999.2171

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44 CONTENTS DEPARTMENTS HOMES & PROPERTIES ...................... 6 CONDO LIVING ..................................30 INNER BEAUTY & DESIGN ...............34 DREAM KITCHENS ............................ 44 BED & BATH ........................................46 HOME IMPROVEMENTS & RENOVATIONS.....................................47

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OUTDOOR LIVING & LANDSCAPES .................................... 60

FEATURES Wearable Technology in Smart Homes .......................................... 6 DREAM Kitchen Cabinetry & Backsplashes ........................................44 COVER STORY: Scott McGillivray Reno & Real Estate Investing Expert ......... 47 Ken Beattie Starts Indoor Plants at Home..................................................60

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Homes & Properties

Wearable Technology THE FUTURE OF SMART HOMES

By Tonya Lambert

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he future lies with the Internet of Things: a sophisticated, intricate network where the many systems and devices within our homes communicate with each other to fulfill our needs and wishes. This is the future of smart homes.

Did you have a bad sleep? Not to worry, your sleep monitor will signal the coffee maker to adjust the strength of your coffee. Feeling stressed? Don’t worry, help is on its way; your mood ring will automatically adjust the sound system and thermostat to create a relaxing atmosphere.

Today’s smart homes are laying the foundation for this intuitive future. Some systems and an increasing number of devices can now be activated and controlled through the use of apps on smartphones and tablets. However, as Tom Emrich, founder of We Are Wearables, explains, “The Internet of Things is about making dumb things smart. Things now aren’t really smart; they’re just awake. They haven’t reached their full potential yet.”

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across your palm to read your commands. Fin is scheduled for release in mid-2015.

The Apple Watch, scheduled to appear in the spring, is expected to include apps which will allow the wearer to interact with their home, enabling them to do such things as turn off the lights after they have left their house, much as with smartphones and tablets.

OveRcOming the Obstacles Several challenges will need to be overcome as the Internet of Things develops, including the issue of power for wearable technology. To work, wearables must be on, using a lot of energy; companies are researching ways to make them more energy-efficient. As more devices become smart, another obstacle is how to integrate the various technologies for effective communication. At the moment, several integration platforms are in various stages of development.

One day, everything in our homes will be interconnected. With wearable technology, an interactive, smart life is closer to reality.

Wearable technology is expected to completely supersede smartphones and tablets for controlling such things as lighting, heating, sound systems and security in smart homes within five years.

Canadian-based company, Thalmic Labs, is currently fine-tuning its gesture-control smart armband, Myo. Using biosensors to detect movements of the wrist and fingers, Myo enables its wearer to control digital devices within the home, such as computers, smartphones, iPods, video game systems and home theatres. Myo will be available to order from Amazon in March.

One Ring tO Rule The Japanese company, Logbar, has developed a smart ring, which will literally allow you to wrap your home around your finger. Simply press a button on the side of this unisex ring, move your fingers to turn on the lights, turn off the television, play music, take photos and track your location. The Ring was unveiled to the public at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas in early January.

Fin Robotics is working on another wearable ring that will allow you to control household devices and play video games through simple hand movements. With Fin, the palm of your hand becomes your keyboard as the ring tracks the movement of your thumb

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Creating Lasting Value Mod-Art Renovation Enterprise

By Fine Lifestyles Staff

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aking a house feel like home can be as simple as filling it with love. But to create a coveted space, reflective of your unique lifestyle may require an expert’s help. The professionals at ModArt Renovation Enterprise (MARE) are skilled at crafting perfect living spaces.

As a dedicated husband and father of three, owner Derek Birch, understands the importance of having a safe and comfortable family home. His quest for perfection is driven by a passion

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for building and working with tools, a calling he first developed working with his father around the house. Modeled after his father’s strong work ethic, Birch started working as a contractor’s helper at the age of 15. Having now worked in the industry for more than 20 years, it was Birch’s strong values and loyalty to his family that led him to launch his own company.

“The general reputation of contractors is not the best; a few rotten apples taint the industry for home owners,” he says.

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“I am trying to address that by providing great service and quality materials at an affordable price. I am at the job from start to finish, to the last bead of silicone and the last nail.”

Specializing in basement developments, kitchen and bathroom renovations, MARE uses only certified Red Seal tradesmen to ensure the best results for their clients. For Birch, every day is a chance to make Manitoba a better place, one home at a time.

“I try my best to install qualities such as honesty, integrity, accountability and responsibility in my children. They are the same qualities that I operate my business with” “The client has to do their due diligence when choosing a contractor,” says Birch.

“This involves getting a minimum of five estimates, several pictures of past projects, a minimum of five references, and they must insist on a signed contract that details the total amount of the project, payment schedule, start and finish dates, and any other specifications expected from the contractor. It should also include what is expected from the client during the project’s duration from the contractor’s perspective.” Because of the importance of this agreement, both branches of Birch’s business (ModArt Renovation Enterprise and Mod-Art Property Inspection Services) operate via contract.

In order to offer their clients the best value, MARE offers a lowest estimate guarantee on labour, offering a five per cent lower price than competitors.

Birch supplies clients with a concise estimate, detailing the job right down to the last nail, which gives clients a true representation of the scope & all associated costs (material and labour).

“It is important to not just go with the lowest offer you receive for a job,” says Birch. “A renovation is only a bad investment when it is done poorly, setting it right always costs a minimum of twice as much as it would have been by completing the project properly the first time, with a qualified professional.

I believe in transparency; I have nothing to hide and neither should any reputable renovation specialist.”

RIGHT Camille, Derek, Alicia, Jayden, and Jorden

Mod-Art Renovation Enterprise Mod-Art Property Inspection Services 204.582.3446 204.996.5207

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Walk Into Elegance

By Henny Buffinga

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ost of us lead busy lives, and thus spending hours lounging in a bathtub isn’t a regular occurrence.

Bathtubs are also declining in popularity, and taking up much needed space in your bathroom. So why not create a luxurious space you can enjoy every day?

One of this year’s top trends is shower conversion — using that much needed space for an expansive walk-in shower.

Walk-in showers create a more open space, with doorless and curbless shower options. Besides, relaxing in a spa-like atmosphere can help lift your mood before facing the hectic workday.

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“My feeling has always been that bathrooms should be more spacious,” says Darren Matyas, owner of Sovereign Tile, Stone and Brick Ltd. “Bathtubs are undesirable for many people, especially the elderly or anyone with physical impairments. Everyone has slipped in the tub at some point, and if you have an injury or if you’re a bit older, it can be very dangerous. Walk-in showers are not only safer, they are also an elegant addition to any bathroom.”

rewarding, not only for an improvement in value in the home, but for personal enjoyment as well,” says Matyas.

Updating a bathroom adds value to your home, and showers provide more efficient water consumption, energy usage and personal time. “Conversions can be

Getting a professional to install your tile or stonework is best, especially when you’re undertaking a large job such as a shower conversion. “When you pay

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Matyas started Sovereign Tile, Stone and Brick Ltd. three years ago, and holds his work to a high standard of quality. Creative and detail-oriented, he enjoys incorporating clients’ ideas and designs while ensuring they are installed properly. Matyas is a great believer in the timelessness of tile and his work is built to last.

attention to the details, it shows in the work,” Matyas says. “The proper time, materials and technique should be invested in every renovation. Consumers often compromise in one or all of these areas, and then find themselves regretting they did when the renovation fails to meet their expectations.”

One of the most important aspects of tile work is water permeability. Tile board must be installed with adequate corrosion-resistant fasteners and waterproofed correctly. The right choice of grout and sealer creates a durable waterproof environment. Proper care and maintenance ensures longevity of your tile and prevents water damage.

Matyas prefers to use Mapei products, a manufacturer that specializes in surface preparation, waterproofing, mortars and grouts. As the building industry’s most innovative company with the highest quality products, Mapei strives to maximize performance and reduce installation costs. Their best-backed warranty program offers individual product warranties and total system warranties.

Qualifying for a warranty is easy with well written and readily understood terms. You can trust industry-leading Mapei products knowing you are protected with their comprehensive warranties.

Matyas is an honest contractor who takes care to make sure he is always on the same page as his clients as he brings their visions to life. Whether you want an intricate porcelain mosaic or natural stone feature, Matyas can create the ultimate spa getaway in your home.

Sovereign Tile, Stone and Brick Ltd. 204.998.6784 info@sovereigntile.com www.sovereigntile.com www.mapei.com

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If You Can Imagine It, They Will Build It

By Brandi Parnell Photos BTL Wedding

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rom the time they were boys, construction has been in their blood. Brothers Cornie and John Krahn grew up watching their father take ideas and build impeccably sound structures. In fact, by age 14 John was fully hands-on when working alongside his dad.

“There aren’t too many true craftsmen left anymore. Whether it is a church or a hog barn, dad always said the quality should be the same,” John recalls. “The industry has now been separated into many different subtrades; today there are framers, finishing carpenters and cabinetmakers.”

The guys at Imagine are well versed in all aspects of your next project.

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Cornie and John own Imagine Consulting and Design, a company that will design and construct everything from new homes to basement developments.

They are renovation professionals who will also build decks, fences and even do landscape design. But what makes them unique is together they embody everything custom, especially when it comes to their innovation. Each project is viewed as its own canvas and together they create your masterpiece.

“I love the design aspect of our business,” says Cornie, the creative one who takes feedback from client meetings and renders 3-D images — the perfect way to envision what a project will actually look like.

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“Having a place to go is a home.

Having someone to love is a family.

Having both is a blessing.”

—Donna Hedges

As for John, he uses the drawings to crunch them into a calculated plan. In fact, John is more about the process; he works within budgets, sourcing the best materials and tradespeople in the industry. “We are very selective about who we work with. It’s not always the cheapest, but it’s always the best.”

A custom home is not what it once was.

Many custom homes are actually custom track homes. At Imagine, Cornie and

John consult with each client or family to discover what custom means to them.

They take that information and craft the perfect project, every time.

“A really important part of our business is family. We build homes to make life a little easier, a little more comfortable,” says Cornie, noting they have many times changed directions mid-construction should a better option arise, even if it meant more work. “Every home or project speaks to you during construction and what better time to discuss and address changes than during the construction stage,” he says.

Whether you want a brand new building or wine cellar, a home theatre or home spa, whether you’re a gourmet wannabe chef in need of a dream kitchen or someone wanting to design a personal home gym to look out at the sunset, Imagine can do it.

“Plain and simple, we don’t believe in can’t,” says Cornie. John recalls a project where a client reached out to them who had been told what he envisioned couldn’t be done. Together, the guys at Imagine defied conventional thinking and built a mock-up.

Which in turn became the content for a one-of-a-kind, spectacular staircase.

Each person has a gift, but these two brothers have managed to merge their gifts into one business with limitless potential. Imagine your haven from the world, your dream home or project.

Imagine a place that meets all your needs, a place that honours your lifestyle. You’re imagining Imagine Consulting and Design.

“Dad always said, ‘View each project as if it were for your own family. If it’s good enough for you, it’s good enough,’” says John. “We’re blessed to do what we do, for when all is said and done, our clients become our friends.” Imagine Consulting and Design is built on an earnest foundation of custom quality. Call today for a free estimate.

Imagine Consulting & Design 1654 St James Street, Winnipeg Sales: Darren Munsters 1.204.795.0970 Design/Sales: Cornie Krahn 1.204.688.4531 Project manager/Estimator: John Krahn 1.204.891.6160 www.imaginewinnipeg.ca

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MAKING THE

Great Room GREATER

By Tori Stafford

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Lighting

The overall lighting of a room can make a huge difference in the way that room looks and functions, says Peggy Reid, co-owner of Reid & Siemonsen Design Group. “With the right planning, lighting can totally transform a room,” says Reid, noting it is important to consider ambient, accent and task-specific lighting.

With the array of different lamps, fixtures, bulbs and baubles, lighting can make a huge impact in more ways than one.

“Accent lighting can be used to highlight art, or have the light fixture be the work of art,” says Reid. “The right light fixture can define your personality and pull the entire room together.”

Walls

The age-old decision between wallpaper and paint still exists – only now there are even more options in each. Some of the larger, more dramatic prints in today’s wallpaper options are ideal for accent walls, Hyett says, but if you’re the kind of person more inclined to change things often, there are still options. “I personally love the funky embossed papers now becoming widely available.

Their three-dimensionality adds an architectural quality to a room, and the play of light across a wall can be quite mesmerizing,” says Hyett. “As well, since such papers are designed to be painted, you can transform the space easily and economically.”

Furnishings

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he ‘great room’ of any home is designed to serve more than one function, but if the room doesn’t function aesthetically, it’s just not as great as it could be. Fine Homes Winnipeg spoke to some of Canada’s top interior designers for tips on bringing together style and function.

Flooring

The flooring in your room should be decided based on those who will use it, and what they will be using it for. For instance, if you plan on entertaining, it’s always a good idea to avoid carpeting,

and therefore stains. Hardwood flooring is easier to clean and far better for those with allergies, says Catherine Hyett, coowner of leclair-hyett design.

When it comes to the furniture pieces in the great room, it is all about deciding what functions the room is going to serve, Reid explains. “It is important to consider the scale and functionality: How many people do you want to seat and how can you maximize this? It is important to group areas for conversation, TV viewing, and reading,” she says.

When it comes to choosing which hardwood, there are some things to consider, as well, she says. “Dark flooring requires more upkeep, since dust, scrapes and other marks are more evident than on a lighter wood,” Hyett advises. “If animals are part of the family, minimize use of carpets and rugs and choose bamboo or a good quality hardwood flooring such as oak, birch or hard maple.”

Because today’s world has an everincreasing number of electronics in almost every room, considering how the room will be set up before placing anything is crucial to ensuring any wiring is kept out of eyesight. This can be done easily with wireless speakers, and the devices themselves can often be hidden away in shelving and cabinets if the room is well designed from the beginning.

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Everything You Need at the Touch of a Button

By Melanie Furlong Photos BTL Wedding

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magine having a “Good Night” button on your phone. With one touch, you lock your doors, turn off the lights, adjust the thermostat, shut down the music and turn on your alarm for the next morning.

That’s just one example of the kind of automation that Wired by Design can offer clients. Owner Darren Munsters, who’s been in the audio-video industry for two decades, says his company does both pre-wiring for new home builds and renovations as well as retrofits for

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audio, video, Internet, telephone, security, cameras and automation. “We have solutions for all applications,” says Darren.

Once homeowners have the technology installed in their homes by Wired by Design, they never have to worry about accidentally pressing the wrong remote button just before the big game comes on TV. The company prides itself on instant support for all customers.

Wired by Design’s excellent customer service has been recognized by the Better

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Business Bureau. They are two-time finalists and have had three consecutive nominations for the organization’s Torch Awards, which are awarded for ethics and integrity in business.

“We’re excited about that because we know we’re going the extra mile for clients,” Darren says.

Homeowner Jason Reid has had his entire house done by Wired by Design.

“The service has been consistent and outstanding,” says Jason. “They put together

a custom package for us and completely blew away all our expectations. The level of professionalism and service is beyond anything I’ve experienced in a retail setting.

I’m proud to say I deal exclusively with Wired by Design for all my electronic needs.”

Wired by Design visits all their customer’s homes to make sure they get the right products for their particular circumstances. For example, if you buy a 65-inch Samsung TV, they can customize the sound bar for that particular model.

The company works closely with architects and designers to install

concealed systems that give customers the aesthetics they want in their homes.

Wired by Design can create a nice clean and sleek look for your room where you don’t see any components.

Wired by Design has worked on homes all across Manitoba and as far east as Toronto. Right now, the company is working on its largest project, a 13,000 sq. ft. home that will have automated blinds, waterfalls, lighting control, cameras and more. But Darren says the 900 sq. ft. jobs are just as important to them.

“When a client has four different remotes

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that operate their components, and they find it extremely difficult to use, they tend not to use it and second guess their purchase,” he says. “Our installations provide easy-to-use, stress-free solutions to provide an excellent experience at the touch of a button.”

Wired by Design 1654 St. James St. Winnipeg, MB 204.795.0970 wiredbydesignwpg.com

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Modern, Handmade Furniture with a True Canadian Heritage

By Tori Stafford

Quality, hand-built furniture transcends generations, bringing with it stories as unique as the furniture itself.

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or years, Blayne Wyton worked in furniture restoration, and the only thing he appreciated more than restoring incredible heirlooms was the workmanship that went into crafting each one. The quality, durability and grandeur of the masterful labour from decades and centuries past are unsurpassed by today’s modern manufacturers.

But what is perhaps just as hard to come by as a true craftsman is the wood.

An appreciation for both the artistry and the hardiness of wood became the inspiration for Prairie Barnwood, a custom furniture company Wyton owns and operates out of Morden, MB. Wyton dreamt of the initial concept while travelling across Canada, taking in the each distinctive landscape.

“As we were driving through province after province, I was drawn to these old, beautiful barns and I just kept thinking of what I could do with them,” Wyton

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says. “And then the idea just kind of came to me: ‘You should rip down an old barn!’”

And that is precisely what he did.

At the time, his restoration business had one other employee, Nathan. Together, the two men sourced an old barn just north of the American boarder with the notice of reclaiming its wood. It was a major undertaking; the barn had to be deconstructed carefully to preserve the material, which was then de-nailed, planed and sanded all by hand.

Each piece was then dried in a kiln to remove any moisture or bugs that may have been in the wood. Using skills he’d gained during years of restoration work, Wyton built a Mission-style writing desk with the reclaimed wood the first night back in his workshop. The worn,

rustic lumber created an affect hundreds of furniture manufacturers try to replicate – but the authenticity and heritage of the wood was obvious, and drew immediate attention.

As the popularity of his pieces proved larger than he expected, his company grew, expanding to 10 employees, including three full-time craftsmen and a crew for dismantling barns. Regardless of its growth, Wyton’s core objective and principles remain the same.

“We are taking what is viewed by others as worn out and unwanted, and we’re salvaging this beautiful wood, which is unlike any lumber you can find today,” Wyton says, noting the barns Prairie Barnwood dismantles across Manitoba and Ontario are usually about 100 years old. Beyond that, the wood itself

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would have been harvested from trees at least 100 years old, meaning by the time it is used to create new furniture or custom pieces for his clients, the wood already has a 200-year history from right here in Canada.

“It truly is taking a piece of Canadian heritage and making it into something new,” Wyton expresses.

“I love the fact we can take these boards, each with their own unique markings and story, and build something repurposed to carry on into future generations.”

Prairie Barnwood 29026 Willcocks Rd. Morden, MB Winnipeg showroom open by appointment only 204-822-5476 sales@prairiebarnwood.com

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Market Ready Real Estate Services for a Worry-Free Listing

By Henny Buffinga

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HOWCASE, the newest division of Take Time Home Cleaning and Lifestyle Services, aims to help people who are selling their homes. Buyers are influenced by the appearance of the interior and exterior of a home as much as the location and property details; the company’s goal is to increase the property value by maximizing the attributes of each home.

Operating since 2009 offering residential cleaning, Take Time has recently branched out to include a number of services, which can be combined in SHOWCASE to prepare a home for sale and maintain it while it’s on the market.

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“We’re here to lighten the load for people who need some extra help and simply don’t have time or can’t do it all themselves,” says Cindy Dayman, owner of Take Time. “Everybody is busy. It’s much easier to have one company to work with than four or five. Our slogan is ‘We Maximize Value.’ Property is a huge asset and it makes sense to maximize the opportunity to receive the best offer. We take a property and maximize the potential sale value by making it more attractive to people who are looking to buy.”

deceased parents, to busy professionals with families. Take Time will assess the needs of the property and provide a quote. Their staff will repair, paint, clean the carpets and upholstery, tile and hardwoods, and make the windows sparkle; and of course, provide a thorough top to bottom clean. They can de-clutter, reorganize and home stage. To increase curb appeal, the Take Time crew will care for the yard, cut grass, and clear snow, as well as remove items that aren’t attractive to potential buyers.

With all that is involved in selling a home, SHOWCASE is a great option for anyone looking to downsize — from family members selling a home for elderly or

Clients can go with a quote or choose to customize a list of services. Trained and experienced employees provide services, and of course Take Time is fully bonded

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Take Time Home Cleaning is Your ONE STOP for all Home serviCes • Residential and commercial cleaning • Mattress cleaning for allergy sufferers • Interior/exterior windows and gutters • Carpet, stains and upholstery cleaning • Tile and grout cleaning and resealing • Hardwood recoating • Handyman services (electrical, carpentry, painting, grout) • Home staging, including de-cluttering and reorganizing • Junk removal • All-season yard maintenance

and insured. Take Time also offers generous discounts on all services to anyone who is a residential or commercial cleaning client.

“With our full time office staff, we make sure our service is hassle-free: busy people don’t need any more hassles,” Dayman says. “At one time a cleaning service was considered a luxury, but it just isn’t anymore.”

Many people consider Take Time to be the industry leader in Winnipeg. “It means so much to my staff and it makes us even more determined to provide a consistent quality service that our clients value,” Dayman says. “I am proud to say my staff loves it here. When people enjoy their work you get quality service.”

Dayman invites readers to check out her website, and to take note of the client and staff testimonials.

Showcase: Market Ready Real Estate Services and Home Staging 204.770.7103 1.855.831.1713 cindy@taketime.ca taketime.ca

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Rare Timber:

Bringing the Infinite Beauty of Nature into Your Home

By Tonya Lambert

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rees are majestic beauties, strong and proud, poised against the wind and rain, reaching for the sun. They encompass the very essence of nature; the breathtakingly rugged allure of a tree can render a viewer awestruck.

Since a very early age, Drew Lockhart, owner and artisan of Rare Timber in La Salle, has had a keen appreciation for the diverse charms of trees and the splendour of the wood they leave behind. His journey into the world of woodworking began by

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Photos Clark Moeller

watching and then helping his father and grandfather in their shops. As an adult, he continued to hone his woodworking skills in his spare time. The results of his endeavours can be seen in stunning works of art found throughout his home.

Inspired by George Takashima, a 20th century architect and woodworker who sought to release ‘the soul of the tree,’ Lockhart crafts live edge pieces that allow for a deep connection with nature. The live edge of the wood is what remains once the bark has been removed, its

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undulations forming its own natural rhythm and unique look.

Lockhart works with a wide variety of woods, from the exotic spalted maple to the spectacular cocobolo, from the light hues of willow to chocolate browns of black or claro walnut. Each piece of wood has its own tale to tell and Lockhart’s job is to find that story and reveal it in all its singular splendour, a task at which he greatly excels.

Each type of wood has its own distinctive beauty – the ways in which Mother

Nature fashions its grain and cloaks it in colour. Lockhart uses clear finishes on all his pieces so the extraordinarily elegant shapes, lines and patterns created by its grain, burls and whorls shine through – be it the curious curls of soft maple, the chocolate waves of walnut or the straight, no nonsense grain of cherry wood.

Every table, countertop or bench that Lockhart skillfully crafts in his Manitoba studio is a one-of-a-kind work of art. “Live edge is a type of furniture that fits with any type of décor,” notes Lockhart, “Whether it is an older home with lots of wood or a contemporary home with clean lines, a piece of live edge furniture makes an eyecatching accent.” Live edge furniture and wall art adds a depth of character and visual interest that is at once attractive and functional. The aesthetic impact of these expertly crafted heirloom pieces are sure to please the most discerning tastes.

Every piece of Rare Timber furniture and wall art comes with a lifetime warranty of repair or replacement against defect or workmanship though it is unlikely that anyone will ever have to claim it given the meticulous nature of Lockhart’s craftsmanship.

If you are looking for a finely finished focal point for your home or office, stop by Rare Timber and meet with Drew Lockhart.

Soon, you will experience the pride that comes from owning a truly remarkable handcrafted piece of art capturing the bold, unrefined magnificence of nature.

Rare Timber 62 River Heights Dr. La Salle, MB 204.736.8263 www.raretimber.ca

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Craftsmanship at Its Best

By Tobie Hainstock

Beauty, functionality and structural integrity are key elements that attract most people to the home they choose to buy.

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t KDR Homes, you get quality workmanship and peace of mind knowing no detail is left unattended. The strong team of craftspeople combined with the dedicated sales team at 204Homes.ca of Royal LePage Dynamic are committed to providing their clients with the ability to make their dream home a reality.

One of the most important elements to building a quality home is the strength of the relationship with the client. “KDR Homes is a smaller, local builder who is very customer focused,” says Sean Kirady of 204Homes.ca.

“The owners truly want to get to know their customer. When you first meet with KDR Homes about building your custom home, they talk with you about what you’re looking for. Based on that information, plans will be drawn up to fit your lifestyle.”

Conscientious about the care and detail that goes into each house is the top priority for the entire team at KDR Homes.

They do not build ‘cookie cutter’ homes; everything is customized to meet their client’s needs and wants, and they never build the same house twice. KDR Homes is in the business of creating homes of amazing design and impeccable quality rather than a lot of homes all at once.

Providing quality workmanship is a choice the team at KDR Homes has been making for decades. This is reflected in the trades and subtrades they partner with on projects. Everyone contracted is local. All of the tradespeople are chosen based on their reputations for excellent work. When they find the right people for the job, they keep in touch and hire them again for the next project.

These qualities are attractive to Kirady and his associate Ryan Jones. The level of customer care is extremely high for both the builder and the REALTOR®. As people of integrity with strong scruples, Kirady and Jones are pleased to represent KDR Homes and inform clients about their business.

Open communication between Kirady, KDR Homes and the homebuyers ensure satisfaction with how the build is progressing. “We make sure to maintain a strong relationship and stay in touch. If we see an issue, we make it a point to contact the client immediately. Once the home is complete, that relationship continues to be an open two-way street. In the end, the most important thing is to build a beautiful

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high quality home for the new owners to enjoy for many years to come.”

Kirady encourages homebuyers to come out to the KDR Homes show homes and experience the craftsmanship in person.

Located at 9 East Plains Drive (Sage Creek), 186 Lake Bend Road (Bridgwater Lakes), 27 Trailside Crescent and 16 Waterstone Drive (Southpointe), these stunning homes are true testament to the difference that care and quality make.

204Homes.ca/Royal LePage Dynamic Re-sean Kirady 3-1450 Corydon avenue Winnipeg 204.813.0242 www.204homes.ca

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Home In(SURE)ance Make sure you have the proper coverage and financial protection for your home with CAA Manitoba Insurance. No CAA membership required!

We offer property insurance for: • rentals (home or apartment) • homes • vacation homes or cottages • condos • businesses (in-home or commercial) • tenants

When you choose to purchase from CAA Manitoba Insurance you have access to 25 dedicated insurance brokers with over 220 years of combined experience. Our team will take the time to find the right coverage for you and your family.

To enter and for contest rules go to caamanitoba.com/finehomes Winnipeg 204 262.6000 or call toll-free 1 855 779.0677

® CAA and CAA logo trademarks owned by, and use is authorized by, the Canadian Automobile Association

Are You Backed Up? How to protect your home from water damage

by Carly Peters

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othing excites Manitobans more than seeing the mounds of snow melt away into puddles come springtime. But nothing can take that thrill away faster than having those puddles find their way into your basement.

Water damage from spring or overland flooding, even a small amount, can be costly to homeowners. It is also something that many people don’t realize isn’t covered in their home insurance policy – meaning they are on the hook for any cleanup, restoration and property damage.

“I hate to say it but ‘an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure’ when it comes to spring and overland flooding,” says Tiffany Ritchot-Marsden, property and casualty insurance supervisor for CAA Manitoba Insurance. “People have to implement preventative measures on their own because they are not covered.”

Simple House Maintenance Measures • Shovel any excess snow away from your home.

• Clean eavestroughs on a regular basis. If they overflow even when clean, replace them with larger size eavestroughs and downspouts.

• Place downspout extensions far enough away from foundation walls to prevent water damage or seepage back into your house.

• Ensure window wells drain properly.

• Grade your lot so that water flows away from your house but does not affect neighbouring properties. Build up the ground around your house so that water flows away from basement walls.

• Examine sidewalks, patios, decks and driveways. These can settle over time, causing water to drain back towards your basement walls.

• Don’t throw garbage down sinks or toilets. This can clog your sewer and cause backup. Also, avoid pouring fat, oil or grease down your drain. As these liquids harden, they can also cause blockage.

• Don’t leave grass clippings, leaves or other debris on the streets. They can plug the drains, preventing proper

drainage, particularly during heavy rain. Plugged drains cause water to build up on the street; which could then drain into the sewer system through manhole covers and increase your risk of basement flooding.

So Sewer Me Spring showers can bring more than flowers. Sewer backup occurs when the city or municipal drainage system overflows and sends water back through the pipes into your home. This may happen for a variety of reasons, but the most common is heavy rainfall or excess snowmelt overwhelming the system.

The water and sewage can come from various sources, including a septic tank, sewer or storm drain.

Along with a great deal of mess, sewer backup can contribute to mould problems and, of course, bacteria from sewage that has entered the home. It requires immediate, proper and sometimes expensive cleanup and can also damage carpets, walls, furniture and other personal property.

Ritchot-Marsden says sewer backup coverage is not automatically included in home insurance policies, but can be added as optional coverage when home insurance is first purchased or when you renew. While policies vary from provider to provider, coverage can range from $5,000 to $50,000.

The cost can depend on location and preventative measures installed, she explains, but considering how much it would cost to clean and repair a basement, including the replacement of damaged property, the expense of adding sewer backup coverage is minimal in comparison.

Homeowners should also consider installing equipment to help counter the effects of sewer backup and to potentially help with obtaining coverage and/or better rates:

Have a water sensor installed to make sure you’re alerted if your basement begins to flood. Call CAA Rewards partner ProTELEC Alarms and ask about flood monitoring systems.

• Have a licensed plumber install a backwater valve in the main sewer line in the basement. This device automatically closes if sewage backs up from the main sewer.

• Install a sump-pump drainage system that includes a sump pit, sump pump and pump discharge pipe, which should lead away from your house, preferably onto a grassy area or nonpaved surface.

• Invest in battery-operated sump-pump backup. Whether it’s a mechanical failure, power outage or clogging, battery backup pumps handle the water the primary sump pump couldn’t.

Ritchot-Marsden reminds homeowners that while these elements do provide peace of mind, it’s important to check and test pumps each spring before the rainy season begins and before you leave your house for long periods of time.

By investing in a little extra care around the home and some added coverage, you won’t let puddles put a damper on your spirit this spring.

Do you have sewer backup coverage? For a free no-obligation quote, call CAA Manitoba Insurance at 204-262-6010 (in Winnipeg) or toll-free 1-855-779-0677 and let us find you the right protection.

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Condo Living Ideal For Today’s Modern Lifestyle

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By Trina Annand

hen searching for that perfect next home, it pays to consider condominium living. By providing a unique sense of community and luxury amenities, many building options provide an experience that’s second to none. At condo open houses you will likely see a wide variety of buyers — from developers looking for their next investment to first-time buyers and those looking to downsize, many are seeing the added value condos bring to a modern lifestyle.

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One of the main reasons for making the move to a condo is location. Often perfectly situated in prime locations — such as downtown areas with restaurants, shopping, spas and other amenities — condos provide much more than a home. Many newer condo buildings have retail spaces in their bottom floor, the rent provides for a healthy reserve fund for building maintenance and the shops allow residents the convenience of shopping just outside their front door.

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to enjoy — seeing people everyday, attending building parties, joining clubs and committees creates a strong and lasting camaraderie.

Purchasing a condo can also mean having more resident-centred amenities, which are added costs for homeowners.

Modern condo complexes often come with a variety of features, such as a pool, hot tub, fitness facility, large common spaces for parties, indoor parking, car and pet wash bays and much more. Every element of a condominium is designed to make the residents’ lives easier, creating a home that is a true oasis. Having all these conveniences under one roof allows people to save valuable commuting time and intuitively build their schedule around their busy day. This shared space also builds a unique sense of community that subdivision dwellers don’t get

Those looking for a maintenance-free lifestyle are often lured by the siren song of condo living, where landscaping, snow removal, common space cleaning and general maintenance are taken care of by someone else. Other perks include a secure and monitored building and having a superintendent onsite. In some condos there is even a 24-hour concierge service, making it the perfect home base for the avid traveller. Concierge services vary per building, but can function as security, accept deliveries, check on a resident’s space while they are away, take care of pets and run errands in the complex. The condominium staff is key to making sure the building functions as a well-oiled machine, ensuring effortless living for all owners.

When choosing your next home, consider the type of lifestyle that best suits your family’s needs and get ready to enjoy the next phase of your life with all the luxury you deserve.

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Condo Buying Tips: • Consider the condo fees — if they are too high, it can greatly affect your lifestyle.

• Check to see what your condo fees cover; water, heat and electricity are common inclusions.

• Ensure the building has a healthy reserve fund to cover any repairs that may arise, if the fund is too low it could mean out-of-pocket payments from residents when problems occur.

• Review the Home Owner’s Association rules and regulations; make sure they are acceptable for you. These rules can include limitations on things like interior renovations, patio furniture and even what colour curtains you can have, depending on the building.

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You are

Exquisite.

And so is the furniture you’ll find exclusively at Bella Moda. Shop our large showroom and you’ll discover exquisite pieces and accessories that you’d typically see only on the pages of a magazine. We travel around the globe to bring you an exceptional quality of brands such as Natuzzi Italia, American Leather, and Pinnacle Collections by Palliser.

645 Century Street | 204.783.4000 | www.bellamodahome.com Mon 10-8 | Tue-Sat 10-6 | Sun 12-5

STYLE. SERVICE. SELECTION.

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nside this sought-after Winnipeg boutique, you will find a stunning array of beautifully crafted furniture from the very best brands in the business, including Natuzzi Italia, American Leather, Palliser, Stylus Sofas, Huppe and Trica. In 2009, when owners Carolin and Ken Burke and Maribeth and Non Marana opened Bella Moda Home Furnishings, they used their 50+ years of combined industry experience to select only the most stylish, comfortable and well-made furniture.

Over 10,000 sq ft, Bella Moda is large enough to offer an enviable selection of exquisite furniture for every room of the house, yet small enough to offer truly personalized service. Begin your Bella Moda experience with a warm welcome and a cup of coffee. Be inspired with new ideas as you explore room after room of their tastefully decorated showroom. Friendly and knowledgeable staff, including an accredited interior designer, are available to answer questions and offer advice. Their interior designer will even come to your home to provide further guidance.

Exclusive to Bella Moda in Manitoba is the Natuzzi Italia brand, known for both its design and detailing. In fact, Architectural Digest named Natuzzi the Most Comfortable Furniture Line.

Whether you’re wandering through the American Leather Gallery or sinking into the elegant simplicity of the Natuzzi Italia Gallery, the luxurious leather and upholstered options are the ultimate in both comfort and quality. Then try out the American Leather Comfort Sleeper to get a taste of how restful sleep really feels.

Their name says it all. Bella Moda. Beautiful Style.

Bella Moda Home Furnishings 645 Century Street Winnipeg, MB R3H 0L9 Phone 204.783.4000 Fax 204.783.4010 www.bellamodahome.com

BACK ROW L-R Ken Burke, Carolin Burke, Maribeth Marana, Non Marana FRONT ROW CENTER: Lucas Marana

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INNER BEAUTY & DESIGN

TAKE A WALK

Finer Side on the

By Henny Buffinga

MAKE A STATEMENT WITH HARDWOOD

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painting it, adding dye to the stain, or ebonizing it for the ultimate modern matte finish, designers are updating the look of the room while recalling the classic luxury of quality hardwood floors.

By creating patterns with a bold design, whitewashing the wood, distressing it,

Drawing inspiration from high-end homes with mosaic floors created using different types of wood, some designers are achieving a similar look by using different colour stains and stencils. With

omeowners looking to make a statement with their remodel don’t often think about achieving that bold new look with flooring. Hardwood floors are a staple in a stylish home, but designers are now modifying hardwood to modernize the look.

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infinite options, you can create geometric arrangements, stripes by staining alternating planks, chevron patterns or an intricately stenciled design. These innovative techniques add a whole new dimension to the look of a room.

Whitewashing is also very popular, creating a French country look in your home. To whitewash floors, you need to strip the colour, bleach (often more than

designers are using paint and dyes in stains to create a similar look. And with bright floor colours and neutral walls, you can maintain the clean modern look while inverting expectation. once), stain, and then seal. Whitewashed floors are the perfect blank canvas for a minimalist and clean style.

Painting the floor with bright colours is not a new idea. Baroness Pauline de Rothschild, for example, was inspired by the European castles she had seen in her travels, and she recreated the look in her London flat. A writer, translator and fashion designer, Rothschild was a reputable tastemaker in the 1950s and 1960s, and her painted floors were well known. Inspired by her bold use of colour,

Distressed or reclaimed wood is also used for rustic appeal, adding rich character to your floor. Distressing the wood involves aging it, scraping it by hand or with steel wire, or sculpting it to add texture. Reclaimed wood is often taken from barns, factories or warehouses, and is popular not only for its unique appearance, but also as an environmentally-conscious option.

For a truly matte look, ebonizing wood goes a step further than a simple stain or dye. It actually causes a chemical reaction that makes the wood turn pitch

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black, and when it is done properly, the grain should not be visible, making it darker than ebony wood itself. To ebonize wood, choose a hardwood with a high concentration of tannins (the same as found in wine or tea). Oak, cherry and walnut are all good options. This technique was originally popular in the 1920s, but has resurfaced today.

For a less intense look, adding dye to a stain can give it that rich, dark look that hides the imperfections of the grain in hard-to-stain woods. For modern appeal with a classic twist, a dark matte floor paired with light coloured furniture creates a good contrast.

Try something different with hardwood — and take a walk on the finer side!

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Light Up Your Home with ART DE LIGHT

By Courtney Tait Photos BTL Wedding

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o matter what style, colours and finishings your home has, decorative lighting is essential to making it looks its best.

From floor and wall lamps to chandeliers, lighting is the finishing touch that gives every space its unique ambience. It’s also an opportunity to add artistic elements to your decor. For Winnipeg locals and beyond, the new lighting store Art De Light offers specialty lighting you won’t find elsewhere.

Opened in October of 2014, Art De Light is a lighting showroom and store as well as an online retailer. Owner Yongfeng Hao, formerly an architect in China, specializes in helping customers choose the right lighting for their living space.

“We give advice and suggestions based on the decor of our customers’ homes,” says Hao. “People tell us our lights are unique and modern. According to lighting market reports, the majority of lighting fixtures are made in China. This gives us the opportunity to provide diverse, fantastic lights to our customers with designs from all over the world.”

Hao’s connections with major lighting suppliers in China enable him to offer customers a range of lighting options at affordable prices. You can choose from floor and wall lamps — including aluminum flower lamps — to ceiling lights and chandeliers in Art De Light’s showroom or its online shop. The showroom’s expert staff is well-versed in the various in-stock lines as well as products that can be custom ordered.

Along with giving design consultations, staff are available to deliver and install your lighting as needed.

Having moved to Canada from China four years ago, Hao says his favourite part of owning Art De Light is the opportunity to talk with a variety of people each day.

The showroom’s staff takes pleasure in serving its customers and helping them find lighting that suits their personal style.

“We make shopping fun,” says Hao. “We are dedicated to providing outstanding customer service.”

While some lighting showrooms can be overwhelming, with seemingly endless product displays, Art De Light’s designs are carefully selected and arranged. The 2000 sq. ft showroom is designed in such a way that it gives its customers space to

browse and shop with ease. Hao plans to expand the store’s selection by fall of this year to include home decor items such as paintings and ornamental pieces.

Whether you’re building a new home, renovating, or simply redecorating, Art De Light welcomes you to visit their showroom or go to their online store for artistic lighting options and exceptional service. “We will do everything we can to make your shopping experience a good one,” says Hao. “We want our customers to be proud of the lighting they have in their home.”

Art de Light 100-701 Pembina Hwy Winnipeg 204-221-1888 artdelight.th@gmail.com www.artdelight.ca

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Custom Local Woodworking at its Finest

By Melanie Furlong

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arren Gesell’s lifelong dream of working with wood is finally a reality.

In November 2014, the semi-retired entrepreneur started Walnut Grove Woodworking with the encouragement of his wife, Carol.

“Working with wood was always my first love,” says Gesell, who studied cabinetrymaking and woodworking at trade school from 1975 to 1978. “I really liked making stuff when I was a kid. I love the smell of

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wood, especially walnut and cedar, the tactile sensation and the look.”

After his studies were complete, Gesell put his passion for woodworking aside to help his parents run their industrial sewing machine company. “I stayed in that industry, but because of imports, the need for sewers in North America was vastly reduced.”

In recent years, Gesell sold seven downtown Winnipeg properties to Siloam Mission and opened Walnut

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Grove Woodworking, where one of his specialties is making beautiful custom and stock cutting boards. He uses many types of wood including walnut, maple, cherry, purple heart, African zebrawood and more.

“When you’re finished using one of these cutting boards, you don’t want to hide it away,” he says. “Most people want to show them off. That’s why I call them appliances.” The wooden cutting boards cost more than plastic, but they don’t stain, off-gas, dull your knives or wear

out. Gesell made his first maple wood cutting board in the mid-70s at school as a gift for his brother, who still uses it today.

Another way to enhance your kitchen décor is by having Gesell build you a butcher block top or wooden island counter. Bar tops, coffee or end tables, desks and even dining tables can be custom made to fit into your space.

For the outdoors, Gesell mainly works with cedar for patio tables and planters for gardens and flowerbeds, the likes of which you can’t find in retail stores. The natural oil in cedar board prevents insects from burrowing and allows it to age gracefully, even unfinished. The raised planters are perfect for gardeners with knee problems or who use wheelchairs.

Everything Gesell makes is completely unique and that’s what his customers are looking for. “I can come to your house or you can come to my shop and see some of the projects I’m working on to give you an idea of what can be done,” says Gesell.

“If you want to bring me a drawing of your plan for your dream table, for example, that’s fine. Or we can work together to plan it so it will fit perfectly in your space.”

Gesell is thrilled with the response he’s been getting. “People are calling me an artist,” he says, “but I’m having fun doing what I want to do and earning a little money.”

Walnut Grove Woodworking is growing quickly and will soon be thriving. “I really enjoy working with wood and people,” says Gesell. “This business is the perfect marriage of those things. We make your dreams come alive in wood.”

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Walnut Grove Woodworking Unit G 968 Redonda St. Winnipeg, MB 204.224.Wood (9663) warren@walnutgrovewoodworking.com www.walnutgrovewoodworking.com

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Indonesian Artisans Combine

Tradition & Resourcefulness

By Melanie Furlong Photos Joel Boily

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arlier this year, Rick Boily spent a month travelling around Indonesia looking for the best handmade products for his store, Pieces of Paradise. Boily has been working with many skilled artisans there for about 10 years now and relies on them to create amazing and authentic work for his unique store.

From Bali to Java to Lombok, the country’s amazing geography, breathtaking landscapes and tropical weather make

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it a paradise on earth. And whatever the regional artisanal specialty, Indonesians are resourceful. Boily is thrilled to be bringing their work to Canada.

In Duck Village, artisans specialize in making beautiful bamboo furniture, perfect for outdoor use. Using the fastgrowing and local renewable resource, the furniture is made into light and modular tiki bars and furniture sets that can easily be moved around for parties on decks and patios.

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On the island of Java, west of Bali, a small family operation is making cotton batik men’s shirts, batik fabrics, sarongs and ladies’ dresses with tropical motifs perfect for summer or resort wear. Batik is the ancient Indonesian art of waxing, dyeing, boiling and sun drying natural fabrics. Craftsmen carve and sculpt wooden or metal “chops” used to hand stamp dye-resistant wax onto cloth.

Dyeing the cloth then boiling out the wax exposes a unique pattern. It also ensures that no two pieces are exactly alike or

look mass-produced, and that there’s no shrinkage in machine wash. Pieces of Paradise is the exclusive distributor of these unique men’s shirts in Canada.

Lombok’s specialty is their worldrenowned pottery, which is handmade using the old traditional method of burying the clay pieces in large pits with coconut husks and straw to bake. Their artisans make vases, baking sets, plates and cups with their rich, red clay not found anywhere else in the country.

Skilled woodworkers strip and grind through layers of paint to restore the wood of retired fishing boats. The wood, which is mostly teak, has been used a lifetime by fishermen who patched and re-painted it every few years. With it, the artisans build buffet hutches, night stands and other kinds of rustic-looking furniture that would suit cabins or cottages perfectly.

Indonesians try to reuse and repurpose everything, including recycled motorbike tires. Some artisans are making patio chairs and table sets from them. “They’re very sturdy,” says Boily, “And I’m sure they will last a lifetime.”

Things have improved slightly for Indonesian artisans in the time that Boily has been in business. “Some people we deal with have great talent and they can make a decent living compared to the average citizen,” he says. “We have great working relationships with them too. We give them money to help them acquire materials for products ordered and pay them in full when we have our products. We aren’t changing the world, but we’re changing the lives of the artists we work with.”

Pieces of Paradise 1094 Nairn Ave., Winnipeg, MB piecesofparadise@mts.net piecesofparadise.ca

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What Can You Do To Make Certain You Have Enough Insurance It is my experience that most clients find insurance confusing. Coupled with the bill for a policy you hope to never use they find the process of understanding their coverage tedious and boring.

We all incur the expense (myself included) on the off chance we have a claim. But if you are the statistic that suffers a serious loss and your home is not properly insured…it becomes exciting really fast!

Danielle Tkachyk is a selfproclaimed insurance nerd! With a background in education her specialty of explaining confusing insurance concepts in plain language is only natural.

Her preferred clientele are first time homebuyers, young entrepreneurs and likeminded professionals!

She has owned her own brokerage for 6+ years and as the former training coordinator for the province’s sole auto insurer her wealth of insurance knowledge is diverse.

To connect with Danielle visit www.pmcinsurance.ca danielle@pmcinsurance.ca 204•233•4051

All insurance is done in the utmost of good faith so it is critical that you are familiar with your property. Your broker may not by privy to the specs of your home therefore you are responsible for relaying the necessary information

to calculate the proper amount of insurance. This is referred to as the rebuild value. After a serious loss, what is it going to cost to haul away the debris, prep the site for rebuild and reconstruct the same home in 2015?

This includes, but is not limited to: The year built The total above ground square footage The use (single detached vs. multi-family semi-detached) The style (bungalow, bi-level, two story, etc.)

The foundation (slab, crawlspace, unfinished basement) The primary exterior finishes (stucco, siding, brick, etc.)

The number of bathrooms

The materials used (finish quality can greatly skew the rebuild value. i.e. the interior wall height/covering, flooring, fixture and countertop selections)

didn’t think to inspect the mechanical components: The roof material and when it was last updated (shingles, metal, etc.)

The garage (attached/detached and how many cars)

The electrical service (60, 100, 200 amps)

The access (it stands to reason that the cost to rebuild can increase if the property is located on an island or in a remote location. Be sure to mention any exceptional location considerations!)

The type of electrical and when it was last updated (knob and tube, fuses, breakers)

Although I recommend reviewing your insurance policy on an annual basis it is most common when purchasing a new home. All too often I inherit clients that can tell me the colour of the living room feature wall but

The type of plumbing and when it was last updated (cast, copper, PVC) The type of heat and when it was last updated (electric baseboard, woodstove, gas forced air furnace) New rating systems are rewarding insureds that update these aspects of their home. As they should!

For example, if you maintain your home and proactively install new shingles before the end of their life expectancy they will better withstand the weather perils of wind and hail…and make you less of a risk!

Further, whenever you increase the value of your home through renovation, you are responsible to notify your insurance professional. By reporting features such as finished basements, saunas, wine cellars, sunrooms, decks, theatres with extensive audio visual equipment and swimming pools, you will speed up the claim settlement and confirm you have enough insurance in the event of a loss.

TOP 5 Things to Have in Your House Smoke Alarms – Working smoke alarms save lives so ensure yours are tested every month! Install on every level of the home, especially near each bedroom.

Fire Extinguisher – A dry chemical, ABC rated fire extinguisher is effective for use on common combustibles, flammable liquids and fire involving electrical equipment. Make sure one is kept in the kitchen and inspected annually.

Carbon Monoxide Detector – A carbon monoxide detector should be installed on every level of the home and located near sleeping areas. Evacuate the house immediately should the alarm sound.

Sump Pump – Install a sump pump to prevent basement flooding and test at least once in the Spring and once in the Fall.

Electrical Safety – Do not overload electrical outlets which can result in a shock or fire. Ensure all cords and plugs are in good condition, and use extension cords for temporary power only.

For more loss prevention tips visit www.preventingloss.com

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DREAM KITCHENS

DREAM Kitchen Cabinetry && Backsplashes

By Tori Stafford

The kitchen is a bustling hub of people and meal preparations squeezed into busy schedules — but it can still be a beautiful space to enjoy.

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reating a dream kitchen often means finding the perfect marriage of function and style. Two elements speak to this kitchen design balance: cabinetry and backsplashes.

IT’S WHAT’S ON THE INSIDE THAT COUNTS When it comes to cabinetry, trends are leaning towards simple designs and appearances – but only on the outside, explains Fran Underwood, a Canadian interior designer.

“For the cabinets themselves, there has been a complete shift over the years towards very plain and simple designs,” says Underwood. “Even in the hardware, people prefer finger pulls or grooves to handles and knobs.”

The number of kitchen cabinets is decreasing, replaced by the favourable drawers that make accessing stored items faster and simpler, she says.

“People want to be able to do the things they do in the kitchen as easily as possible,” Underwood says, noting that having appliances pre-wired is also a growing trend.

“So something people like to do is have these items in place where they are

accessible, but also usable. You don’t have to get the appliance out, put it on your counter and plug it in; you just open a door or drawer, and there it is, ready to use!” she says.

A BACKSPLASH OF COLOUR While neutral, natural, monochromatic and shades of white, black and grey seem to remain the favoured colour themes in kitchens, Underwood says she is starting to see pops and splashes of colour making their way back into the most used room in the home.

“I just did a kitchen where the cabinets were all a dark grey, sort of like a weathered wood colour, and the countertop was white granite… and I did the walls orange!” she says excitedly.

“The client loved it.”

streamlined kitchen design, suggests Underwood, is to have tiles placed in a straight lay as opposed to a brick lay.

“People seem to always think tile needs to be laid in a brick lay pattern, but it doesn’t,” she says. “Often when I show someone straight lay tiles, they really love it, and they much prefer it…with tile, and especially mosaic tile, it’s just too busy.”

With today’s user-friendly, efficient and fashionable cabinetry and backsplashes, you have all the ingredients for a dream kitchen. All you need to add is imagination.

Backsplashes have gained a lot of attention over the past decade, with seemingly endless styles and types of glass, stone and ceramic tile. While neutral colours and tones remain quite popular, many are starting to find the multi-tone or patterned mosaic styles too fussy in appearance, Underwood says.

Today’s kitchens are all about clean lines and simplicity, and clients tend to favour grey-scale or natural colours and shades.

A nice way to create a continuity of the

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BED & BATH

Sumptuous

Bathrooms With Old-WOrld Elegance

By Katrina Geenevasen

F

rom the flooring to the architectural details, everything within a room can enhance the desired “wow factor” with elegantly distressed décor.

While many of today’s contemporary bathrooms feature modern synthetics, an old-style bathroom favours natural materials — think stone, wood and tumbled marble. Extra details, such as exposed wooden ceiling beams along with arched doors and windows will complete a look. If you opt for faux wood beams, consider a custom-axed finish in order to recreate the look of striking hand-hewn beams for added charisma.

When it comes to lighting, it’s all about sconces and chandeliers made from wrought iron with scrolled patterns and beautiful curves. If you want to channel medieval times, opt for a hoop-style chandelier. If glamour is more your style, select a twinkling crystal chandelier that will lend a little sparkle to your bathroom.

Bathtub choices are endless. If, however, you want your bathroom to be authentically old-world, select the highest-quality cast iron tub you can find. Timeless and beautiful, cast iron tubs hold heat longer than alternative materials. The only drawback? They can weigh up to 500 lbs., which could pose a problem for upper-level bathrooms.

Choose fixtures with long, curved handles in an oil-rubbed bronze to make an oldworld statement. On the other hand, a bridge-style sink faucet features elegant, over-the-counter piping and will help to complete the style statement you’re making in your bathroom.

For old-world inspired décor, think richly textured walls in colours that are deep, and regal, and remember that you want to strive for a timeworn effect to achieve the desired result.

Whatever your dream is when it comes to designing your new bathroom, dream big.

When it comes to a bathroom styled with old- world charm, the sky is the limit.

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COVER FEATURE

Scott

McGillivray Reno & Real estate InvestIng expeRt

By Erin Legg

now a Regular Contributor to Fine lifestyles & Fine Homes Magazines

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COVER FEATURE

B

est known for his pearly white smile, honest advice and occasional antics as the host of HGTV’s popular Income Property, Scott McGillivray has built an empire from the ground up. Aside from hosting and producing the longrunning program, McGillivray balances being a family man with a career as a successful business owner, author and educator. But take away his international recognition and would it matter? No. Family is his first and foremost commitment.

“Not a day goes by that I don’t acknowledge that becoming a father is the best thing that’s ever happened to me,” states McGillivray. McGillivray married Sabrina in 2008, and since have become parents to two daughters, Myah, three and Layla, 18 months. “Having children is the most amazing thing that’s ever happened in my life. It’s changed my life completely.”

McGillivray dedicates everything he can to his family, and that involves strict fashioning of his career and public life. “My primary focus is family and everything else has to work around it. We set up some work rules [and made] hard decisions, but they’ve been the right decisions. I’ve had to turn down opportunities, but I have to be able to just come home and be a dad sometimes.”

Although McGillivray easily gushes about his wife and children, he remains modest about himself in the spotlight. Recently, People named him “Sexy Man of the Week,” which he finds humorous.

“It’s probably the most awkward thing that’s ever happened to me. My wife [and] my friends thought it was hilarious. No one takes it too seriously, especially me.”

At the age of 19, McGillivray was advised: “Life is too short to learn from your own mistakes.” He elaborates, “You’ve got to learn from other people. Lots of people have trouble listening and asking the right questions to people who have already done what they want to do.”

Income Property is just one vehicle by which McGillivray educates homeowners on smart investing and renovations. Armed with more than 150 of his own income properties across North America and his B. Comm (Honours), he partnered with longtime friend, Michael Sarracini, and founded the Lifetime Wealth Academy, providing crucial real estate advice and education to want-to-be investors. “Teaching other people is something I always gravitated toward and I was naturally giving real estate and reno advice to my friends and family anyway,” he explains.

“I feel my best when people can take something away from the show or a live event. I love hearing when people have learned something or have been inspired to buy a property or take on a renovation because of me. That’s the most rewarding.”

In 2015, McGillivray will continue educating homeowners using his knowledge and expertise in real estate as a regular contributor to Fine Lifestyles and Fine Homes magazines. “It’s going to be a good year!” he says with his trademark smile.

Check out the new season of Income property thursdays at 9 p.m. & 9:30p.m. et/pt on Hgtv CanaDa. /everythingscottMcgillivray | @smcgillivray @scottmcg | @scott_mcgillivray www.scottmcgillivray.com PREVIOUS PAGE PHOTO Tim Leyes THIS PAGE PHOTOS Richard Sibbald

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HOME IMPROVEMENTS & RENOVATIONS

INCOME PROPERTY NEW SEASON

FEBRUARY 26 HGTV is a trademark of Scripps Networks, LLC; used with permission.

Committed to Quality Titanium Custom Homes

By Tonya Lambert

T

that Titanium not only employs proper building practices but also exceeds industry standards. Mike Holmes attests, “These are builders that were already building to my standards. I didn’t have to come in and tell them how to build right.

That’s what they do.”

uses triple-pane argon windows, spray foam insulation, a minimum R60 attic insulation, 96% efficient furnaces and an engineered floor system with minimum 3/4” plywood. A Titanium Custom Home is good for the environment, your health and your pocketbook.

The Holmes inspectors were very impressed when they examined the company and their products, noting

Titanium Custom Homes are built using socially-responsible building practices so they are eco-friendly, energy efficient and environmentally responsible.

President Rui Chaves explains, “We have always held energy efficiency and the structure of the home as the greatest priority in building.” Titanium

Valuing quality over quantity, Titanium Custom Homes decided right from the beginning to remain a small company.

As such, Titanium is able to provide their clients with the time, energy and attention they deserve when making what is likely to be the largest, most important investment of their lives.

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HOME IMPROVEMENTS & RENOVATIONS

itanium Custom Homes is an innovative, forward-thinking company committed to providing clients with close, personal attention and exceptional quality. In February 2014, Titanium Custom Homes received the Mike Holmes seal of approval, becoming the first and only Manitoba custom home builder to partner with the renowned celebrity contractor in his Holmes Approved Homes Program.

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“Throughout the entire process, Rui and Liz were always available to answer questions or simply to meet us at the house so we could take a peek at the progress,” explains Titanium customer Lisa Mowat. “They were extremely accommodating and up front about the building process as a whole.”

Donald and Clare June agree: “There is nothing more important than feeling you can trust your builder, trust their expertise, trust their employees, trust their contractors and trust you’re getting a fair price. But the best aspect of building a home with Titanium Homes is the personal attention.

They took the time to get to know us, our tastes, our priorities and our concerns.”

“We form close relationships with everyone we work with, from clients to subcontractors and suppliers,” says Rui. “These close ties facilitate great communication. Our subcontractors like working with Titanium because we are approachable and give everyone a sense of pride in the final product.”

The husband and wife team of Rui and Liz Chaves highly value family and community. These principals have led the team at Titanium Custom Homes to lend their support to Habitat for Humanity.

The organization, which is committed to building homes for low income families, relies on the support of volunteers, like the Titanium Custom Homes’ crew, who give generously of their time and skills.

Building a new home is a big decision. A home is more than a house; it is a lifestyle.

Trust in Titanium Custom Homes to build the perfect home for your family, giving you peace of mind to create wonderful memories together. Titanium Custom Homes has Mike Holmes’ approval; give them yours, too.

Titanium Custom Homes 15 Chizick Drive St. Andrews 204.228.3349 rchaves@TitaniumCustomHomes.ca www.titaniumcustomhomes.ca

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The BeauTy and STrengTh

of Metal WiThSTanding The TeST of Time

By Tori Stafford

Whether drawing from classic and traditional inspirations, or looking to a more modern, sleek and streamlined concept, one element is present in almost all styles of home design and dĂŠcor: metal.

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HOME IMPROVEMENTS & RENOVATIONS

F

rom the wrought iron spindles on a stately front entranceway, to the contemporary stainless steel hoods over the cooking spaces of modern kitchens, metal elements are as much a part of the aesthetic qualities of a home as they are of the very nails and beams that are used to construct one. And the practical applications of metal elements in a room, such as shelving or wine racks, mean those looking for custom creations to complete their spaces turn to metal as a strong and attractive medium.

Here in Winnipeg and the area, Tyler Batik and his team at Bang On! Railings offer custom metal fabrication services for those looking to create unique and durable metal elements for their home or business. “We can pretty much make anything you can think of out of metal,” says Tyler, who works with clients and designers to create custom metal products to be used indoors and out. “Our business is custom metal fabrication of any kind, not just railings.”

Tyler and the Bang On! Railings team are skilled in custom railing fabrication in a variety of spaces and applications. Tyler works with a client to develop a railing design that reflects their style and taste, and can combine a number of materials, including wood and glass, to create railings that not only complement a space, but also make a statement.

Having grown up around the railing industry, Tyler worked with his father’s railing company until the demand for his sidework in metal fabrication proved enough to open his own company in 2013. Now, Bang On! Railings serves as the place to go for any metal fabrications, which includes a wide variety of railing designs, as well as an array of other metal items, Tyler explains. “We’ve made custom light fixtures, metal island tops, backsplashes, custom hoods — all kinds of things,” he says. “Anything you can think of, we can do, pretty much.”

Bang On! Railings works with home and business owners, interior designers and home builders to combine their clients’ visions with their own artistry in metal work to create a final product. The team has designed stunning wine racks for restaurants as well as those for wine storage in private homes.

Their versatility and the ability to translate client concepts into reality sets Bang On! Railings apart from others in the industry.

It is this collaborative and imaginative aspect of the work they do that makes the job so gratifying, Tyler expresses.

“The artistic part of what we do is what I enjoy most,” he says.

“I like being able to be creative and making sure that what we create looks good.”

Bang On! Railings Unit 3 – 14 Don Valley Parkway Springfield, MB 204-786-3881 bangonrailings@gmail.com www.bangonrailings.com

previous page, second row right & bottom photo Artista Homes; second row LeFt photo Ginos Homes FineHomes

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THE POWER to Make Things Better

T

he professionals at Mr. Electric are always willing to go above and beyond what even the most skilled electricians in Winnipeg can do. This is because when it comes to Mr. Electric, all of the work they do has the Mr. Electric family values attached to it. It is, at heart, a family business, which is reflected in every single job from start to finish. That’s why when the Mr. Electric experts come out to your home, business or jobsite, you can expect the highest quality of standards.

Whenever you’re working with Mr. Electric, you can rest assured they’ll handle their end of the project without you having to worry about a thing. Their hands-on involvement throughout the entire process — from bidding to project completion — ensures your home, business or construction project is fully equipped with whatever your electrical needs may be.

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HOME IMPROVEMENTS & RENOVATIONS

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The skilled professionals at Mr. Electric are among the most trustworthy, hardworking and skilled electricians

you’ll ever come across. The company considers itself to be defined by how its employees are perceived, so they make sure to only hire the most qualified.

The licensed, bonded and insured electricians are professionals; quality is their calling card and is evidenced by their A+ rating with the BBB. Mr. Electric specializes in knob and tube removal but can also handle small jobs like outlet repair and ceiling fan installation, all the way up to larger commercial/industrial service and maintenance projects.

Mr. Electric applies proactive problemsolving techniques to design the best electrical solutions to fit your needs.

Mr. Electric has worked on all sizes of construction and renovation projects. The industry-leading project managers and technicians understand the importance of delivering your project on time, within budget and at the highest standard of safety.

Whether your commercial project involves a renovation of 200 sq. ft. of office space or over 250,000 sq. ft. of new building design, Mr. Electric applies proactive problem-solving techniques to design the best electrical solutions to fit your needs.

All journeyman electricians at Mr. Electric have completed five years of training in an accredited program and are required to attend continuing education classes.

All employees have completed first aid and CPR training as well. The company has always been an industry safety leader, building on the philosophy that creating safe workplaces is simply good business.

Because the employees at Mr. Electric are thankful for the community in which they live, work and raise their families, they are committed to sharing their success with organizations and causes.

For instance, they do on-going work with the Ronald McDonald House and are committed to helping other organizations in the community.

Mr. Electric looks forward to serving you in the future!

Mr. Electric of Winnipeg 3155 Assiniboine Ave Winnipeg, MB R3K 0A3 204.949.9299 MrElectric.com/Winnipeg above l-r Ping Liang Shieh, Lisa Morden, Chuck Lewis, Ben Dormer Photo by Shawn Fillion HOME IMPROVEMENTS & RENOVATIONS

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A Home to

Complement a Lifestyle

By Nicolle Hodges Photos Beautiful Beginnings Photography

N

o matter what stage of life, buying or selling a home is not just an adjustment; it’s a complete lifestyle change – one that Cyndy Erickson wants to help you achieve comfortably. With ten years in the real estate industry, Erickson spent some time working as an associate broker before moving on to own Lifestyles Real Estate Ltd., where she serves as a realtor and broker.

With her added experience as a Seniors Real Estate Specialist®, Erickson is able to help clients find that perfect home, be it

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the elderly seeking a comfortable place to age, or first-time homebuyers with plenty of questions on how to make the big jump.

“Whether one is upsizing or downsizing, there are financial and emotional ramifications attached to the act,” says Erickson. “We are well-informed, reliable and patient; we will provide you with information and options that will assist you in making the decision for your next lifestyle change. And, no matter what you decide, we will be supportive.”

HOMES & PROPERTIES

“If we are dealing with clients as a Senior Real Estate Specialist®, they know that we are here as a resource, not necessarily to help them buy and sell a home, but to provide information with regards to resources that might allow them to age in place.” However, if moving is ultimately the client’s decision or their last option, Erickson is there to provide them with resource information to help them downsize or look at options, such as properties with amenities or assisted living.

There are certain traits Erickson says she strives to live by, some of which include

trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, care and citizenship. As most of her current business comes from past clients and referrals, her reputation in the industry is reflective of those qualities.

“If you are a buyer looking for a home, I want you to love what you buy and if it takes a year or two, that’s okay with me,” says Erickson. “We will look and look because I want you to be in love with your home and be more than satisfied with the service and information that you receive from me.”

Erickson wears many hats in order to accomplish all the tasks required to drive the business. As a realtor, she helps her clients with purchasing new and resale homes and condos, and she assists with all matters of commercial business, including buying, selling or leasing property. As a broker, she manages the office, reviews trades, confirms timelines are met from the accepted offer through to possession, and many other daily tasks.

It is through her knowledge and versatility that Erickson demonstrates one of her biggest strengths: compassion for all stages of the home buying and selling process. Her number one priority is ensuring her clients are served well and feel comfortable asking as many questions as necessary. “They can take their time so that in the end they love, love, love their new home,” says Erickson.

“We are small and we do good business,” says Erickson. “I go above and beyond for all of my clients and the realtors that work with me.”

Lifestyles Real Estate Ltd. E 730 St. Anne’s Road 204.421.SOLD cyndyerickson@live.com www.lifestylesrealestate.ca

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Building on Customer Service, One Home at a Time

J

on and Aaron Scott know customer service, with an astute focus to detail. Brothers and business partners, they own Charleswood Roofing. Since its start in 2010, they have expanded exponentially; and although they are refreshing their already recognizable logo to reflect the dynamic growth, the Scotts want their valued customers to know their business principles remain strong.

Their brand is built on great client care, with the goal to always be better. Their motto is prompt and courteous service and what they bring to each home is a focus on family values and a staff with combined industry experience of over 25 years.

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Most recently, Jon and Aaron uncovered a need for a more comprehensive building offering and decided to expand into spray foam and insulation services, with the intention of building their new enterprise on the strength of their established brand.

“We’re excited about our growth,” says Aaron Scott. “And we’re equally happy to announce the launch of Charleswood Spray Foam, which will work in unison with Charleswood Roofing.”

“Winnipeg has a lot of older neighborhoods,” Jon notes, “and that means a lot of older homes with dramatic heat loss through attics. So we’ve upgraded our service for modern times to better serve our customers today because

HOMES & PROPERTIES

we’re not satisfied - nor should our customers be – with band aid solutions.”

This includes addressing vapor barrier issues, ventilation and insulation levels.

“We recognized the need with more and more older homes and made a commitment to address it,” adds Jon Scott. “Our clients needed a broader scope of services. Anything that adds value and improves our professional relationship with our clients is something we’re very interested in which is why we added the spray foam insulation division of our company.”

Being primarily a residential contractor with some commercial work in their portfolio, they’ve spent a lot of time

renovating customers’ homes where the scope of requirements has changed due to the evolved building environment.

new challenges and learning curves, so subsequently. We learn together - that’s very fulfilling.”

Raising young families and being homeowners themselves, Jon and Aaron believe in community and building relationships, which is equally important as building their business. As a result of this commitment Charleswood Roofing & Spray Foam are proud sponsors of Lighthouse Mission, Siloam Mission, Youth for Christ, and Teen Challenge. “We take part in the annual Teen Challenge demolition derby,” Jon says proudly.

Jon and Aaron also note their investment in their staff is a major contribution to their success, and the key to their future.

“Being able to serve the community with the best job we can is only part of the whole marketing aspect,” Jon says. “Our professionalism, and more importantly, our promise to our customers is what’s truly important.”

“One of my favorite aspects of what we do is going into client’s homes,” Aaron says. “I personally like meeting with customers and educating them on their building. I’m learning myself and the homeowners are learning right along with us. We have the tools and expertise to serve them, but every job presents

If your home is in need of roofing, cladding, soffit, fascia, eavestrough, siding or spray foam/insulation services please check out Charleswood Roofing & Spray Foam’s website at, www. charleswoodroofing.com.

Jon, Aaron and their team look forward to serving you and helping you upgrade your home.

Charleswood Roofing & Spray Foam 3818 Wilkes Ave, Winnipeg 204-505-3051 inbox@cwrmb.com www.charleswoodroofing.com

TOP LEFT John & Aaron Scott HOMES & PROPERTIES

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OUTDOOR LIVING & LANDSCAPES

Starting Your Plants

At Home

By Ken A. Beattie, NPD, Ph.D.

The garden’s neo-natal wards will be popping up all across the country over the next several weeks. Like so many other anxious gardeners, I am also disinfecting, mounting lights to rival even the most sophisticated “grow-op” and sorting through a rather sizeable container of “got-to-have” seed packs.

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here really is something inherently common among all gardeners: the absolute need to get a head start on things and get our private stash of special plants germinated. Germination and the maintenance thereafter can pose some difficulty for first timers, and there are a few tricks of the trade to observe.

Cleanliness can’t be emphasized enough; lack of sterile or extremely clean conditions has been the cause of many a lost crop. I prefer to use brand-new containers that I further wipe down with a germicidal moist wipe that would be used in the home just to ensure a sterile area. If you are reusing seeding containers, soak and scrub them in warm, soapy water, rinse with clear water and then dip in a 1:10 solution of household bleach and water or use a moist anti-bacterial wipe

for the final touch. The seeding mix itself will be sterile, so there is no need to re-cook it.

Many older garden references, including a couple of my books, suggest a method of home sterilizing media. I would not attempt this now as seedling mixes are common and easy to find. Take care to select a “seeding mix”; they are quite different from standard potting mixes. They are typically light, finetextured, almost dust-like and especially formulated for the rigours of the neonatal plant ward. A very good piece of equipment is a sieve — either homemade from screening, a culinary variety or one designed for the plant lover.

One of the most useful tricks is the method of watering the seeding bed.

Before that, however, we need to get the germination bed ready. I like to use a pan, which is a squat plastic container with a wide mouth, often referred to as a bulb pan. The seeding mix is poured in and tamped down to ensure there are no air pockets. You can use another clean pan to press the media down; this provides a smooth seeding surface.

Smooth is important so that finer seeds can be seen; this helps to avoid oversowing and crowding.

Open the seed packet and fold a crease in one end, forming a sort of spout.

Aiming your seed packet, lightly tap your holding hand; this graduates the seed flow. Always undersow; never clump and try to fill the container, or this will cause no end of problems later on. Now for the cool watering part! Fill a shallow baking pan with warm water and set the seeding pan in slowly. The seeding pan’s dry media will slowly take up the

OUTDOOR LIVING & LANDSCAPES

warm water and moisten the entire container without disturbing the newlysown seeds. Once you are convinced the media is moist, remove from the watering pan and sift a very little bit of dry seeding media over the seeding pan to cover the seeds. The dry media will absorb the perfect amount of moisture from the pan without further work. Most seeds should be covered.

It is wise to cover the seeding pan with plastic wrap or a glass sheet; this will keep the humidity at the appropriate level.

Warm conditions are best, so if there is room on top of an appliance such as the refrigerator, set your new seeding pans there until germination occurs. Once the seedlings appear, it’s best to remove the plastic wrap gradually and move the pan into indirect light. Germinating seeds do not require light until they have emerged.

Stretching is one of the most common errors post-germination because of lower light conditions. If you are planning to place your crop under artificial light, the adjustable tubes should only be a few inches from the tops of the plants.

Fungal problems are common this early in the seedling’s life, so apply a light dusting of cinnamon or sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) as a preventative and increase the air circulation around your tender crop.

Naturally, increased air flow translates to drier media, so watch the watering.

I strongly suggest bottom watering as suggested for the first saturation.

Good luck and “almost” spring!

welcome

to

Ken Beattie is the Horticultural Education Manager with the prestigious Canadian Wildlife Federation.

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Creating BACKYARD STATEMENTS

By Trina Annand

L

andscaping has been transformed over the last decade from an afterthought in the homebuilding process to an integral extension of a home’s living and entertaining space. Now, more than ever, yards matter; whether you have a sprawling green space or tiny piece of grass, it pays to work with a certified landscape professional who can turn your dreams into a reality. Kindret Landscaping

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affords clients the opportunity to discover the untapped potential of their yard and create a space to withstand time.

“More people are investing in their yards rather than cottages. They want to create an oasis at home, a space they can enjoy at the end of the day instead of just packing up the car on weekends. Our summers are short and every minute counts,” says owner,

OUTDOOR LIVING & LANDSCAPES

Ryan Kindret. The former professional hockey player grew up working in the family business and understands the importance of landscape design.

With a dedicated team of landscape professionals no job is too big or small for Kindret Landscaping. They take care of all facets of a project with in-house design, project management and construction services. This all-encompassing approach

“People need to think about the future of their home when planning outdoor spaces. Landscaping and curb appeal add value, but they also add so much to your daily life. Making the most of your outdoor spaces is our specialty,” says Kindret. has garnered the company a loyal customer base as well as recognition from Winnipeg in Bloom and the Manitoba Nursery & Landscaping Association.

From modern to traditional landscape designs, homeowners have endless options, including green and recycled options such as glass or rubber mulch.

When envisioning a dream yard, creativity is the key to success. Kindret landscape designer, Jay Alarcio, notes clients are translating their interior style outside with living and entertaining spaces featuring high end finishes such as marble and granite. “People are looking for versatility in their yards. They want a design that truly displays their personality, using a variety of textures and colours to create a unique space,” says Alarcio. Using state of the art 3D rendering technology Kindret Landscaping brings clients’ dreams to life ensuring a seamless transition from imagination to reality.

“What I love about landscape architecture is that it changes over time, it grows and shifts with the seasons, connecting people to the outdoors. It draws you to interact with nature in a way that traditional architecture does not,” says Alarcio. Using certified landscape professionals, technology and inspiration Kindret Landscaping creates one-of-akind spaces, whether the job is a simple raised bed or a backyard sanctuary.

Kindret Landscaping 1248 Wilkes Ave. Unit B, Winnipeg 204.487.2107 www.kindretlandscaping.com |

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Working Together to Create Your Complete

BACKYARD RETREAT

By Henny Buffinga

Everyone knows building a home requires the expertise of many different contractors to bring it all together, but yet when it comes to the backyard, people often assume one company can be hired to do the entire job.

When one company tries to be all things to all people, client expectations can go unmet.

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C

rown Spas and Pools, Hardscapes and St. Mary’s Nursery and Garden Centre are three independent businesses that work together to create your ideal outdoor space. Each company is an expert in their respective field, but share a philosophy that allows them to work together with the synergy often only found within one company.

“I know Doug at Hardscapes will do a better job at patios and walkways, whereas Carla at St. Mary’s will do the best landscaping, just like they know we excel with pools,” says Mike Sudoski Jr., owner of Crown Spas and Pools. “One company may think they can do it all, but we have the benefit of specializing in what we do, which allows us to know our work inside and out.”

Hardscapes owner Doug Loeppky and St. Mary’s co-owner Carla Hrycyna have known each other for a long time. In fact, their companies have been working together for more than 10 years on various projects. After repeatedly running into one another over the years, they reached out to Sudoski for larger projects.

“We often have to deal with people in different trades, and it’s always a dance between each company, knowing when to step one way or another to accommodate the needs of the client,” says Hyrcyna.

Within this partnership, the dance has been choreographed through experience.

When a client approaches one of the companies, that company will be their contact throughout the entire process.

“These three companies turned our vision into reality in a professional, coordinated manner,” says Brad Klassen, whose backyard was transformed last summer by the trio of experts.

When not working on a large project together, each company has a unique set of services.

Crown Spas and Pools is a family business that has been in operation since 1989. Their new location is 11, 000 sq. ft. and was designed to feel like a backyard retreat. “After years of planning and dreaming, it has finally become a reality.

We really wanted to create a destination people will want to come back to,” says Sudoski. Upon arrival, full patio displays

OUTDOOR LIVING & LANDSCAPES

immediately greet customers, featuring an impressive line-up of Barkman Concrete’s landscape and outdoor kitchen kits, all designed and built jointly with their partners at Hardscapes and St. Mary’s. The new showroom features four lines of tubs with over 20 models on display, two fully functioning swim spas customers can actually test and a selection of quality patio furniture.

Hardscapes is a paving stone, walkway, driveway, patio and retaining wall installer. Specializing in residential projects allows Hardscapes to focus on the needs of its clients. Because it is an owner-operated business, clients deal with the same person throughout the design, sales and installation process.

It’s a business relationship that ensures the client gets exactly what they want in their yard.

“We’re focused on what we do best and we don’t want to get distracted from that,” says Loeppky. “These days we see a more informed customer who is looking for an install standard that just can’t be met by companies who try to do everything.”

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More than just a nursery and garden centre, St. Mary’s is a 55,000 sq. ft. shopping destination providing everything for gardeners including stylish home décor, outdoor décor and a full fashion line with accessories. “We are the full shopping experience, taking you from the inside of the house to the outside,” says Hyrcyna. A major part of the business is landscape design and install, creating anything from small starter yards for do-it-yourselfers to large-scale projects.

“As a homeowner, I know what it’s like to hire contractors. It can be a hassle,” says Sudoski. “With us, you get the best of all worlds: the feel of working with one company but with three specialized businesses who are the best at what we do.”

Together, Crown, Hardscapes and St. Mary’s can build a complete outdoor living space, allowing your family to enjoy summer to the fullest.

Crown Spas and Pools 760 Century Street, Winnipeg 204.783.8501 sales@crownspas.com www.crownspas.com Hardscapes Inc. 204.997.8663 info@hardscapes.ca www.hardscapes.ca

St. Mary’s Nursery and Garden Centre Ltd. 2901 St. Mary’s Road, Winnipeg 204.255.7353 www.stmarysnurseryandgardencentre.ca

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OUTDOOR LIVING & LANDSCAPES

35 OFF

$

first time clients

Eco-friEndly clEaning SErvicES Residential and CommeRCial

204.396.2955 | www.ohsocleanltd.ca | info@ohsocleanltd.ca |

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Helping you create your real estate Lifestyle!

We each have our own lifestyle which is created by our tastes, style and financial means.

At Lifestyles Real Estate Ltd., we work with you to achieve the real estate lifestyle that is the best fit for your current designs.

Cyndy Erickson REALTOR速 and BROKER

cell: 204.791.7151 office: 204.421.SOLD cyndyerickson@live.com | www.lifestylesrealestate.ca