Youre Home June 2014 by Lori Kluge

You’re home summer 2014 The official magazine of the Regina & Region Home Builders’ Association

S H O W H O M E S O N M I T C H I N S O N WAY S H O W H O M E H O U R S : M O N - T H U R S 7 - 9 P M W E E K E N D S & H O L I D AY S 1 2 - 5 P M

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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

o t e m o c l e W e m o H e r ’ You

or most of us, summer is the season to kick back, relax and bask in the sun – enjoying the great outdoors in our backyards or at the cottage.

For members of the Regina & Region Home Builders’ Association, summer is definitely not the time to slow down and put their feet up. Home builders and their crews are hard at work in new subdivisions in every quadrant of Regina, constructing both single family homes and multi-family projects. More than just a mere statistic, each new home start represents the realization of a dream – the dream of new home ownership. Whether you’re a first-time home buyer or an existing homeowner with the desire to renovate or move up to a custom-designed property, this edition of You’re Home Magazine is sure to inspire. Our Summer Edition showcases exciting trends in home design and décor, with lively articles on everything from the evolution of the ensuite, to suggestions for designing a pet-friendly home, to creating the perfect outdoor room. Join us as we explore two local dream homes: the first, a ‘country chic’ acreage residence inspired by the owners’ rural roots; and the second, a custom-built house that is a stellar example of universal design. Come on in!

Jeanni e .

You’re home Summer 2014 7

contents

11 28 features

11 my space

64 female ingenuity

18 getting a fresh start with a truly new home

68 growing regina

The best of both worlds

22 a tale of two cities 28 builder of the year has a new name 34 universal design can be life-changing

Building a home that's accessible and comfortable

44 lotto luxury

Homes that support a worthy cause

8 You’re home Summer 2014

forward thinking 200K Women Build – unique to Habitat Regina Coopertown offers new concept with a traditional design

20 mortgage 101:

What to expect during mortgage pre-approval

70 reconnecting The Ensuite

92 welcoming

PekarBilt Homes & Commercial Ltd.

building & design 39

invite light into your home

60 5 top trends in home furnishings

62 make the switch

Many ways to light up your home

66 how to design a pet-friendly home 84 contemporary meets classic In transitional style kitchens

87 lakefront living

Prefabrication makes it easy

110 the evolution of the master bath

renovation 48 breathe easy

Air-purifying hardwood floor a first

74 Counter intelligence

contributors editor

jeannie armstrong

art directors

bonnie bird jacquie bumphrey

photography shawn fulton

www.shawnfultonphotography.com

miranda burski

contributing writers

your home in design

jeannie armstrong carson arthur miranda burski tom eremondi julie folk andrew livingstone wendy livingstone ashleigh mattern tammy mclean jessica mees Stu NIEbergall carol todd michele tyndall

100

your home and the law

publisher

112

rrhba membership listing

114

closing remarks

78 southern comfort Saskatchewan-style!

102

put your kichen on ice Cool finishes are the new stainless

106 your kitchen reno What to expect?

ask an expert 40 landscaping with carson arthur How to catch a Boomer

leader-post

106 You’re home Summer 2014 9

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My Space

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By Wendy Livingstone Family Photo by GJ Photos

Home Photos by Courtney Liske Photography

hen a city girl and a country boy get together, it can be magic. That was the case when Melissa and James McCullough were a part of establishing their home-building company, Trademark Homes Inc., and then again when they built and designed their “country chic” home in Stone Pointe Estates, east of Regina. The 5,400-square-foot, two-storey walk-out home, with its rustic natural wood and stone finishing, lies nestled on an almost-seven-acre lot in the development. “As much as we loved the homes we built in the different areas of Regina, James wanted to get back to his farm roots by having an acreage,” said Melissa. “We love enjoying the open space as a family, but also have a great sense of community with our neighbours as well. The Stone Pointe development is a great fit for us. It’s a happy balance.” The home has been designed to meet the needs of the busy McCullough household, which includes two children, with a third on the way, and various animals that keep the family outside and busy in the yard. You’re home Summer 2014 11

When a city girl and a country boy get together, it can be magic.

“We wanted a space that we’re not worried about our kids and animals wrecking – just easy to live in. We like the farm feel, the traditional lodge feel, so we designed it around that,” said Melissa. “When you walk through the front door, right away you notice how rustic it is – the stone pillars, varying pinewood plank floors that were finished on-site and the cowhide rug in the sitting room. We want people to be laid-back and welcomed when they come over and appreciate the character of our natural products throughout the home and how they have aged with our kids’ abuse – it’s just come as you are and come on in.”

Melissa and James McCullough, owners of Trademark Homes Inc.

12 You’re home Summer 2014

The process for designing the home began with Melissa studying samples in magazines and on the internet, and working with ideas that Trademark clients had used in their homes. “I kept a design journal of what I liked, I would show James, and he would take care of making it a reality for us,” said Melissa. “We went through many drafts and many different options of layout and then we both decided what was best for our family. We feel very lucky that the plans and ideas we gathered over time came together so nicely for us to enjoy now, and grow into over time.”

Guests to the home enjoy the large open dining and living area at the back of the house. With floor-to-ceiling windows that reach the room’s 22-foot peak, the view of the private, countrylandscape back yard is breathtaking, particularly in the evening. But it is not by chance that the McCulloughs can enjoy views of the prairie sunset while comfortably seated in their living room. “I can remember going out [to the property] and walking the land, dreaming and thinking, ‘if we face the house this way, what do we look at?’ We positioned our house on the lot so we get the summer sunsets right through those back windows,” said Melissa. The kitchen also received special attention in the planning process. “It’s one of the focal points of our house because our main floor is so wide open,” she said. “We wanted to do different, unique things. Our clients always are encouraged to get creative with the kitchen, and we were no different. We have rift oak, cappuccino-stained cabinets and granite that has a chiselled edge. It’s just – lived in – and has growing character with time.” Continued on Page 16 You’re home Summer 2014 13

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an outdoor room to your existing home and creates an outdoor feel in any adjacent room to the enclosure. every 3 SeaSOn SUnrOOM is custom designed and built to fit and match the architecture of each unique home. We can frame around changes in roof heights, bay windows, fireplaces - everything about our building process is custom to meet the specific needs of our customers and their homes or restaurants.

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Continued from Page 13

The lower floor of the walk-out, featuring a recreation area that includes a large-screen TV and an area with games such as ping pong, pool and foosball, is a gathering location when friends and extended family or co-workers come for an evening or weekend. “We like to entertain and have friends over, so a good family space was important to us,” said Melissa. The children love their own bedrooms and separate kids’ bathroom, but the part of the home they most enjoy is not actually part of the house itself. “I think they are more in love with the land than they are with the house. They love the back yard – they love exploring in the trees. They’re excited to be getting older and exploring with the animals we have out here, including the occasional wildlife they see stop in for a visit. They love making forts and having tea parties in the back field and they love the country feel that they are able to experience living here.” n

16 You’re home Summer 2014

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Getting a

Fresh start with a truly

New home

urchasing a home is one of the largest financial decisions many of us will ever make, and there are many things to consider when making a purchase decision. Here are some criteria to guide you when evaluating your options between a truly new home versus a resale home. “One of the most important considerations in purchasing a home is looking at what will be required for ongoing maintenance, upkeep and operating costs,” said Stu Niebergall, President and CEO of the Regina & Region Home Builders’ Association (RRHBA). Niebergall goes on to say that you will also want to choose a home that suits your tastes, meets your needs and lifestyle, and is in a location that works for you and your family. “When comparing a new versus a resale home, a resale home will likely always come with compromises,” said Niebergall. It is unlikely, for example, that a resale home will be updated with no-maintenance materials, is in good condition with all of the energy efficient upgrades, and is designed and decorated to suit your tastes and lifestyle. As such, when you go with a resale home, you will need to take into account the costs and work involved in either ongoing maintenance and repairs, or in updating the décor and design so the home suits your tastes and lifestyle. Niebergall said that when you get a fresh start with a truly new home, you will not be making the same kind of compromises that come with a resale home. When you purchase a brand new home, for example, you won’t need to worry about maintenance and upkeep because new homes are built with the latest in 18 You’re home Summer 2014

By tammy mclean

maintenance-free products. They are also built to the latest building code, and with the most advanced building construction materials and technology. With no costly maintenance and repairs this means you will save when it comes to ongoing operating costs. “And thanks to new building technology, new homes can take the worry out of the cost of your energy bills as well,” said Niebergall. A newly built home is about 66 per cent more energy efficient than a home built 30 years ago, and is 30 per cent more efficient than a home built as recently as 2005. Newly built homes include more efficient heating and cooling systems, resource efficient plumbing products, higher levels of insulation, more efficient windows and doors, and Energy Star® appliances. Though a new home does have the worry-free advantage, sometimes things can go wrong, and if this happens, and your new home was constructed by an (RRHBA) member, you still have peace of mind. “Your new home will be covered by a third party new home warranty which provides protection against defects in work and materials as well as major structural defects,” said Niebergall. This is something that you just won’t get with a resale home. When you get a fresh start by going with a truly new home there are few compromises when it comes to suiting your needs and lifestyle. Newly built homes are designed to fit today’s lifestyle. They have modern designs with open, inviting living areas, allowing you to be cooking in the kitchen for example, while entertaining guests in the living area. Why put up with the annoyance of boxed in rooms, lack of closet space and tiny bathrooms? New homes come with plenty of storage, including

pantries and walk-in closets; they have high ceilings, larger, conveniently located bathrooms, and plenty of natural light. “Did you know that a new home has about three times more closet space and twice the bathroom space of an older home?” asks Niebergall. And, new homes can be prewired for today’s technology giving you built-in options for your entertainment, security, and home office needs. Customization is another advantage of a truly new home. Why put up with someone else’s design and décor when you can completely customize your home to suit your own tastes - from choosing your own design, to customizing your finishes and features? “From wall colours to cabinetry, from countertops to flooring, going with a truly new home offers you the opportunity to have your home your way,” said Niebergall. When it comes to location, what about resale homes’ advantage of being located in a charming old neighbourhood close to amenities? Niebergall says regarding location, to keep in mind the following points: First, a brand new home can also be built in an old, established neighbourhood. Second, Regina’s newest neighbourhoods are being developed as complete neighbourhoods where shopping, restaurants and even places to work, are close at hand. Finally, some new neighbourhoods are actually being modeled after the street car communities of the past and are therefore capturing the charm of our older neighbourhoods. New neighbourhoods also come with brand new infrastructure, offering smooth roads and brand new sidewalks and pipes, while eliminating the need for disruptive, noisy, and inconvenient repairs. There is so much to take into consideration when you are purchasing a home. We hope that this information helps you with your decision. Find out more by visiting www.reginahomebuilders.com. n

When you get a fresh start with a truly new home, you will not be making the same kind of compromises that come with a resale home.

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Mortgage 101:

What to expect during mortgage pre-approval By miranda burski

ou’ve reached that anticipated goal in your life that so many people aim for: you’re ready to buy a home. You have some money saved for a down payment and closing costs, and you’re sure that your monthly earnings are high enough to qualify for a mortgage payment. Maybe you’ve even started looking at houses or condos and have a good idea of what you’d like to buy, but you might be unsure of what you can afford. Before you get too attached to any particular home you’ve been looking at, there’s something you need to do first. You need to get pre-approved for a mortgage and establish the purchase limit for your future home. “Consumers should get pre-qualified so that they will know in advance what they are going to be able to afford as far as a down payment or the total purchase price of a home,” said Anna Barone, a mortgage associate with The Mortgage Centre - Design Mortgages. “It also gives them a better understanding of the documentation that is required and the process involved.” To start the pre-approval process, you’ll want to sit down with either a mortgage broker or a bank mortgage specialist. Bank 20 You’re home Summer 2014

mortgage specialists are limited to using their bank’s products and mortgages. A mortgage broker has the flexibility to “shop around” for you; they will look at the mortgage products and interest rates offered at different banks and institutions and find the one that suits your individual situation best. If you’re considering choosing a mortgage broker, it’s a good idea to look for one who carries the Accredited Mortgage Professional (AMP) designation. “It is a national designation for Canada’s mortgage industry,” said D. Kim Gorius, business and administration manager at The Mortgage Centre - Design Mortgages. “It assures the general public they are interacting with a qualified professional as there are continuing education requirements to meet annually in order to hold the designation.” Both a mortgage broker and a bank mortgage specialist can help you to determine what you can afford to purchase, your expected payment each month, your interest rate type, and your term and amortization. Much of this may be determined during your initial interview with the mortgage broker or bank mortgage specialist, during which time it’s important that you’re straight-forward with both yourself and the mortgage broker or bank mortgage specialist about your current situation and future life goals.

“Mortgages are very personalized, because if you said to me … ‘I’m expecting to work in Regina for three years and then I’m moving to Saskatoon,’ that will affect the decisions made in terms of what type of mortgage you want and for how long,” said Lavonne Melle, a mortgage broker at The Mortgage Centre - Design Mortgages. “There are so many factors that affect your choice of a mortgage.” These factors include: plans to move to another neighbourhood or city in the near future; plans for renovating your home or landscaping changes to your property; adding a garage; divorce and separation requirements; expanding families; and the need to consolidate debt.

large role in what mortgage amount you qualify for, which is why it is important to completely disclose all your information in your interview with the mortgage broker or bank mortgage specialist. If, after looking at your financial information, you don’t feel you can afford to buy a house quite yet, your mortgage broker or bank mortgage specialist could help you formulate a plan to save money for a down payment or to pay down debts, putting you on the right track to owning your own home.

Once all of your relevant personal and financial information has been covered in your initial interview with a mortgage broker or bank mortgage specialist, you should be well on your way to Some of the most important purchase your home with your factors that will need to be pre-approval. Remember, a considered when looking at pre-approval is pre-approving a mortgage are your current you and not the property you financial information and your choose; the property will be credit rating. While working reviewed once the offer is through the pre-approval It's important to personalize your mortgage, based processed. “It sets appropriate process, mortgage brokers and on your individual circumstances, says the team at expectations for people,” said bank mortgage specialists need The Mortgage Centre - Design Mortgages. Gorius. “If your expectations to know how much money are realistic then you more you earn, where you spend your money (current obligations), and likely to find the home that suits you, suits your budget, and fits your credit strength and history. There could also be other financial into your future plans.” n factors that may not seem significant but could actually play a

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Tale of

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robust housing market and the availability of land have turned the attentions of a growing number of Saskatoon-based home builders to Regina and area.

It’s not a recent phenomenon. Several Saskatoon-based home builders expanded their operations to Regina years before the province’s recent housing boom.

NORTH RIDGE DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION North Ridge Development Corporation tested the Regina waters in the 1990s with a single condominium project, says company president and CEO Wally Mah. In 1999, North Ridge made the decision to establish a permanent presence in Regina. “We concentrated on single family housing then expanded into multifamily housing, followed by land development and most recently commercial development. That’s how we’ve morphed there,” said Mah. Wally’s son Patrick now oversees operations in the Regina market. A large production builder, North Ridge has been unable to secure sufficient residential lots in Saskatoon to control and sustain the company’s growth, says Wally Mah. In Saskatoon, the City’s Land Branch plans, services and sells residential, commercial and industrial lots in City-owned lands. Residential lots in City-owned lands are made available to builders and private citizens alike through a lot draw process. As a result, there are more than 157 home builders of all sizes vying for available residential lots.

22 You’re home Summer 2014

There are always several subdivisions in Saskatoon being developed by private land developers, usually in partnership with the City of Saskatoon. In Rosewood for example, Boychuk Construction is the lead developer. Dream Development (formerly Dundee) partnered with the City of Saskatoon in developing Stonebridge and Hampton Village, and is currently leading the development of the new east-side neighbourhood of Brighton. A large production builder, North Ridge needs land, and lots of it. “Our business is predicated on certainty. Are we able to access land? Without land, we’re out of business,” said Mah. “Opportunities with the City of Saskatoon’s land bank limited our growth. To expand our business we had to look beyond Saskatoon. We now operate in 14 municipalities across the province.” Escalating land prices and the levies and fees being tacked onto the cost of residential lots are also driving both home builders and consumers to seek affordable options in smaller centres in the province. North Ridge’s land holdings in smaller cities and towns including Pilot Butte, Martensville, Dalmeny, Clavet, Humboldt, Swift Current and Prince Albert, just to name a few, allows the company to have more control over land costs and greater flexibility in determining its mix of housing products. “We’re bumping into an affordability issue of people being able to afford houses, even with the low interest rates. We are currently experiencing considerable interest in our properties just outside of Saskatoon and Regina. Rising land costs and fees are the sole driver of that. It’s nice to have some options,” said Mah.

two cities

By jeannie armstrong

North prairie developments ltd. North Ridge continues to respond to the changing needs of the Saskatchewan housing market. “We’ve had to retool our own product mix. We used to build 60 per cent single family homes and 40 per cent multi-family. Then we went to 40 per cent single family and 60 per cent multi-family. Today, our mix is 20 per cent single family and 80 per cent multi,” said Mah. North Ridge Development’s current Regina projects include a variety of single family homes in Porchscape, The West Landings and The Creeks. The company has several condominium projects on the go, including streetfront-townhomes in Merlot by the Park, Sandhill Pointe townhouses in The Creeks and apartment-style suites at Paramount Condominiums. “We’re also doing a large development in Pilot Butte as well as our Prairie Views project in The Village of Pense, on the Regina-Moose Jaw corridor,” said Mah. “In order to have continued success, we have to be so adaptive to this marketplace. We look for market niches that other people can’t or aren’t willing to risk on. We have to look ahead more than one or two years. I’m developing property today that I bought 13 years ago.”

NORTH PRAIRIE DEVELOPMENTS LTD. North Prairie gained a foothold in the Regina market in 2000 with a multi-family project, Hawthorn Terrace on Rochdale Boulevard. “It was a 24-unit condo project,” said John Williams, president of North Prairie Developments Ltd. “North Prairie expanded to Regina primarily because of a lack

of land in Saskatoon. We were in-between subdivisions at the time and Regina had an abundance of land zoned for multi-unit development. The market looked like it was ready for more condo product,” said Williams. Since that time, North Prairie has designed, built and marketed a variety of “Freedom Lifestyle” condominium communities in the Regina market, including: Huntington Terrace, Abbey Place, Highland Greene, Sovanna Pointe, Stockton Ridge, The Lofts on Stockton and the current offering of Bellagio Terrace. Bellagio Terrace is a 77-unit apartment-style residence located just steps away from Wascana Centre. Williams says that North Prairie’s expansion into Regina has been a good move. “Regina has been very busy and demand has been very strong. We’ve seen the market there increase substantially.” While North Prairie has a long history of condo development in Regina, the builder has now identified opportunities in the city’s single family home market. “Up until two years ago, our primary focus was only multi-family. My son Andrew opened our single family home division two years ago. We have been very active in both markets,” says Williams. North Prairie has a variety of immediate possession single family homes available for sale in Harbour Landing, as well as a showhome open for viewing at 5232 Canuck Crescent. “North Prairie is finishing our Bellagio Terrace project, but currently doesn’t have another multi project in Regina at this time. That may change relatively quickly. We have a full plate currently with our single family division in Regina.” You’re home Summer 2014 23

D & S homes ltd. D & S HOMES LTD. D & S Homes has been active in the Regina marketplace for over seven years, says vice-president Duane Slater. Operating in Saskatoon since 1977 as both a new home builder and land developer, D & S has led the way in creating popular acreagestyle developments including Mission Ridge, Discovery Ridge, Casa Rio Estates, South Pointe Estates, Martens Estates and the current Greenbryre Estates, located adjacent to the Greenbryre Golf and Country Club on the southeast perimeter of Saskatoon. The Slater family felt they could duplicate the success they were enjoying with Saskatoon acreage developments in the Regina market. “We saw an opportunity to develop a niche market of acreages in the Regina area. There weren’t many acreage developments being built there,” said Slater. “We saw the opportunity and bought some land.” D & S purchased several tracts of land from the R.M. of Edenwold, directly surrounding Regina. “It’s right by Pilot Butte,” said Slater. “We started with Stone Pointe Estates, followed by Mission Pointe,

DECORA HOMES LTD. Two years ago, Rick and Rhonda Iula, co-owners of Decora Homes Ltd., purchased their first residential lots in Regina. The boutique home builder has years of experience in the Saskatoon market, specializing in designing and constructing spectacular custom homes. “We’ve had numerous showhomes open in Saskatoon. Quite a few people from Regina have come through our showhomes in Saskatoon and told us that they wished we would build out there. We listened and made our plans to expand into Regina,” said Rick Iula. “We bought four lots in The Greens on Gardiner and all four were pre-sold. People wanted us to build for them.” Decora Homes focuses its activity on the custom home market, said Iula. “We build to people’s budgets and lifestyles. We figure out 24 You’re home Summer 2014

then Rock Pointe. Our newest subdivision in the Regina area is Spruce Creek Estates.” Spruce Creek Estates is a scenic community of large acreage lots, located just north of White City and Emerald Park. The 200 lots range in size from a half-acre to a full-acre, centred around an 11acre man-made lake. “All of the lots are walk-outs. About a quarter of the lots back onto the lake; the remaining lots back onto the creek and groves of spruce trees,” said Slater. The first phase of development at Spruce Creek Estates features 99 lots. “Forty per cent of those lots are sold already,” said Slater. The company is also constructing homes at Spruce Creek Estates. “We’re doing a lot of big custom homes there. Our last one was 8,600 square feet. It sold for $3.2 million. Right now we have four large custom homes under construction at Spruce Creek, which in total will have a market value of $8.5 million,” said Slater. In focusing on making larger residential lots available to homeowners, D & S Homes has found its niche in the marketplace. “You can’t get bigger lots in the cities anymore. For us, it’s another avenue of growth and a good opportunity.”

Decora homes ltd. what their lifestyle is and build to that.” Iula likes Regina’s land development structure, primarily because of the strict architectural guidelines that private developers bring to Regina subdivisions. “I really like that part about land development in Regina. It keeps the controls consistent,” said Iula. He’s had to adapt some of the company’s building practices to meet criteria unique to Regina. “Soil conditions are different in Regina than in Saskatoon. I make it mandatory that we have piles under all of our homes in Regina, for example,” said Iula. “Due to ground movement, there are also differences in the way that basements are framed in Regina. They recommend floating the walls in Regina. We don’t have that in Saskatoon. So there were some adjustments that we had to get used to in expanding to the Regina market. It’s all good though. We’re always interested in learning new things.”

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westridge homes ltd. ENERGY STAR® Certified homes are the norm in Regina, while not as much in demand in Saskatoon. Eighty per cent of the ENERGY STAR homes built in Saskatchewan last year were constructed in Regina. This wasn’t an issue for Decora Homes. “We build ENERGY STAR all the time. It wasn’t a concern for us. It’s something we just do as normal business practice, unless the client doesn’t want it,” said Iula. The Iulas have established a permanent office in Regina, with staff and trades who are from Regina. “We’re not going anywhere. We’re in Regina to stay. We love the market out there,” said Iula.

with a high-end seniors condo project,” said Regan Tameling who heads up the company’s residential homes division from Saskatoon, Westridge Homes Ltd. The company built its first single family home in Saskatoon in 2000. Tameling says that Westridge Homes plans to build six single family homes in Regina this year and 12 in Saskatoon. “We have always done more multi-family units than single family homes in Regina, while we’ve concentrated on single family homes in Saskatoon. Our current multi-family project in Regina is De Marco Pointe Townhomes.”

“We’re really excited about the opportunities in Regina, and showing the people in this city what we can do as a builder and what we have to offer. We plan to have a showhome open to the public by this fall.”

De Marco Pointe is a 34-unit townhome community gracing the edge of the established Rosemont neighbourhood, with convenient adjacency to Lewvan Drive. “About two-thirds of the units at De Marco Pointe are now sold,” said Tameling.

The Westridge nameplate has been part of the construction industry in Saskatchewan for over two decades. The Regina builder is one of the few to expand from Regina into the highly competitive Saskatoon market.

“For the first time in a few years, we have quite a bit of single family land available in Regina. We’ll be building single family homes in Harbour Landing.”

WESTRIDGE HOMES LTD.

“Westridge Construction is a long-time commercial building company that entered the residential market 12 years ago in Regina

Tameling describes Westridge Homes’ designs as custom spec homes. “Even when we do a spec home, it’s unique and original. We aren’t a cookie cutter builder. We don’t build a lot of homes, but each one we build is unique.” Because of the attention Westridge Homes pays to design and craftsmanship, the builder prefers to build in subdivisions where controls are in place. He sees Regina’s land development structure as an advantage. “In Regina, the subdivisions are much more regulated. You know you’re not going to have a million dollar home across from a $300,000 home,” said Tameling.

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“We deal primarily with Dream Development (formerly Dundee) for our land in both Regina and in Saskatoon. Their way of doing things is similar in both cities.” To obtain land from a private developer, a home builder has to have a proven track record, says Tameling. “You know you’re going to be building beside other professional builders. On City-owned land, it’s uncertain who is going to be your neighbour and what product is going to be beside you.” Tameling sees membership in the Regina & Region Home Builders’ Association as an advantage in establishing a relationship with private developers. “Membership in the RRHBA is a way to be recognized by the land developers as a professional builder. Because the land developers are also part of the Association, it becomes a place where they can get to know you and gain recognition.” n

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any worthy home builders, trades people, and suppliers received recognition at the 2014 Master Awards, presented January 25 at the Delta Regina by the Regina & Region Home Builders’ Association

(RRHBA).

For a second consecutive year, Homes by Dundee was called to the podium to receive the final award of the evening: the Home Builder of the Year Award! The Home Builder of the Year Award recognizes a Regina & Region Home Builders’ Association (RRHBA) member who has submitted applications in a minimum of three different categories of the six Builder Awards as well as three categories of Industry Awards (Safety, Environmental Leadership and Community Service). Jason Christbason, RRHBA communications and project coordinator, describes the Home Builder of the Year award as the pinnacle of success. “The Award speaks volumes about a builder’s commitment to the community, their safety practices and their environmental 28 You’re home Summer 2014

By jeannie armstrong

standards.” Dave McEachern, Vice-President, Housing with Homes by Dundee, says, “It was a great honour and even more surprising to win this award for a second consecutive year. I think the award reiterates our commitment to our customers and to the residential construction industry. We’ve always tried to be a leader when it comes to support of the industry and providing value to our customers. I think it’s a great reflection of our people and our allaround commitment.” While Homes by Dundee has now earned the coveted award for two straight years in a row, the Dundee nameplate will not appear on any future Master Award trophies. On May 12, Homes by Dundee officially became Homes by Dream. The corporation’s land development division, formerly Dundee Developments, is now Dream Development.

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McEachern says the new name and branding stems from changes in the ownership structure of the corporation. “We are now fully public and trading on the Toronto Stock Exchange under Dream Asset Management (TSX: DRM). Previous to that, we were under a different ownership structure that was partially private and partially public. There was a change to go wholly public which necessitated the name change.” While the ownership structure has evolved, the company continues to be led by the same expert team. “We’re the same company. We haven’t been purchased by anybody. It’s still the same people at the top. Michael Cooper has been our CEO for the last 17 years and will remain in that position. Nothing has changed people-wise; it’s just on the structure side,” said McEachern. Dream’s Western Canada Land and Housing Division includes offices in Calgary, Edmonton, Saskatoon and Regina. “That rebrand will encompass all of those locations,” said McEachern. The company’s new name, ‘Dream’, stands out for its simplicity, yet expresses the very essence of what consumers hope to realize when they purchase a new home. “We wanted to select a name that is easy to remember and identify with,” said McEachern, likening the strategy to the brand awareness that computing giant Apple Inc. has earned with its iconic moniker. “When Apple was first launched, most people associated the word apple with a type of red fruit that you eat. Over the years, they’ve 30 You’re home Summer 2014

been able to create such a strong brand identity that when people say ‘Apple’ now, a lot of people think of the computer company, not the fruit,” said McEachern. “Along the same lines, we want to build Dream into a very strong brand.” There are multiple companies under the Dream umbrella, with more to come. “We plan to continue to diversify and grow our business under Dream. In time, as we build the brand, when people hear the word Dream, we hope they’ll think of us and what we’ve done and accomplished.” It’s not the first time the corporation has experienced a name change, added McEachern. The company’s history in Regina dates back to 1952, when Jim Cairns founded Cairns Homes. “We operated under the Cairns name until 1997, when Dundee purchased us. We’ve been through a name change before. When we went to Dundee, we improved on things and I think we’ll do the same with this new transition.” McEachern sees the corporate rebranding as an opportunity to take their business to an even higher level. “We’re looking at building on the strengths of what we’ve had with the Dundee brand for the past 17 years, and taking the opportunity to do some things differently. We’ll be rebranding our homes a little bit. We’ll be rebranding how we sell to the consumer. We’re going to overhaul our spec change and make sure that we’re providing the best value for the customer and continue to do that. It’s an opportunity to freshen up our approach and build on all our strengths.”

Over the years, Homes by Dundee had earned a reputation as more of a traditional builder. “Since I became involved six years ago, I’ve been trying to evolve that. This is an opportunity to take a fresh approach, build on a solid past and take us into the future. It’s exciting. It’s an opportunity to do some fresh things,” said McEachern. In Regina, Dream Development is working hard on the creation of several new communities to meet the demand for residential lots in the city. “With the land holdings that we have, we’re proceeding to have a new community in the northwest called Coopertown. We’re planning that will be coming on-stream later this year. We have land in the southeast in conjunction with the City of Regina and will be bringing on a new neighbourhood there within the next year. It’s the area north of The Greens on Gardiner, an extension of what’s there today. There haven’t been any final decisions as to which areas are going to come on and the timing of those,” said McEachern. “There’s also an extension of Harbour Landing, called West Harbour, which is a 300-acre site.” The strong demand for residential lots in Regina is diminishing the current inventory of land, added McEachern. “It’s at a critical stage. We have enough land as builders to get us through the next year or year and a half, but the challenge is that it takes a while on the development side for approvals and to put pipes in the ground and build roads and infrastructure. It’s getting to the point now where if we don’t meet those critical dates later this year working with the City, a shortage will be created. That’s not good for housing affordability and that needs to be averted.” Regina’s housing industry has been operating at peak capacity over the past few years. In 2013, Regina home builders posted 3,122 total housing starts, the highest level of housing starts in the city since 1977. “We’ve reached a new level of what the industry can perform at over the next five or ten years. We’re trying to find out where that equilibrium sits right now. Instead of continued year-over-year increases in the number of starts, I think the industry will ease off from that record high that we saw last year. We’re already seeing those numbers easing up a bit this year,” said McEachern. Over the next few years, McEachern anticipates new housing starts in Regina will moderate around the 2,500 to 2,600 mark. In 2013, multi-unit housing made up 60 per cent of new housing starts in the Regina area. McEachern sees this trend continuing.

While the ownership structure has evolved, the company continues to be led by the same expert team.

“Dream has a multi-family division that we’ve developed in the past few months. We will be doing a lot more multi-family attached housing product. Affordability is driving that demand. The market, even five years ago, was about 80 per cent single family and 20 per cent multi-family units. Now, it’s 40 to 45 per cent single family and 55 to 60 per cent attached dwellings. To meet the demand of the number of units that we need and to keep it affordable, we’ve had to go to those style of units. It’s a common trend the industry has seen all across western Canada over the past ten years,” said McEachern. A trend that is growing in single family housing is designs that will accommodate revenue-generating secondary suites. “It’s a help on the affordability side. People can offset their mortgages by having a secondary suite in the basement or over the garage. That trend continues to get stronger,” said McEachern. Watch for single family homes to decrease slightly in size, with a focus on more luxurious finishes. “People are settling for less space but higher finishes. Tile, granite and those kind of things are almost becoming an expectation for the new home buyer. They’d rather have a hundred less square feet on their house and have the high-end finishes.” McEachern said that Homes by Dream will continue to evolve its housing products, particularly in the area of decor and finishes, to stay ahead of and meet the market needs. “We’re looking at creative ways to give people as much choice as possible.” Watch for Homes by Dream to hold a ‘community day’ barbecue in one of its neighbourhood parks this summer, said McEachern. Homes by Dream currently has seven showhomes open for viewing in all of Regina’s new neighbourhoods. “We don’t just build in our own neighbourhoods; we build in all of them. We give lots of option and choice to people who would like a Homes by Dream house. We want to meet the needs of all of our buyers,” said McEachern. n

32 You’re home Summer 2014

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Design

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Building a home that's accessible and comfortable

By miranda burski

ou need to feel comfortable in your home. It’s your palace; the place where you spend most of your time and the place where you can truly relax.

But what if something unexpected happens? What if you find out that, soon, you won’t be able to enjoy every area of your home anymore – may not even be able to access every area of your home? That comfort would be jeopardized, and suddenly your home isn’t the palace you always felt that it was. Bryan and Bev Wilson found themselves in such a situation about six years ago when Bryan was diagnosed with an illness that would leave him in a wheelchair. At that time, they were living in a house that they liked, but that they knew wouldn’t be suitable for them in the future. They decided the best way to handle the situation would 34 You’re home Summer 2014

be to build a new, custom home. “We approached Munro Homes Ltd. with an idea of a wheelchairaccessible house that is non-institutional, something that is energyefficient,” said Bryan. The couple also wanted the house to be open concept and to have enough space for visiting family. Four years after that initial decision, the house was complete and the couple was ready to move in. Nearly two years have passed since that time, and Bryan and Bev have no regrets about their decision to build the house. “It’s life-changing for Bryan, but it’s also life-changing for Bev,” said Heather McGinnis, project consultant at Munro Homes. “Bryan used to be very dependent on Bev for doing things, because he couldn’t function in his own house.”

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You need to feel comfortable in your home. It's your palace; the place where you spend most of your time and the place where you can truly relax.

“Now, Bryan has independence, which means I can go visit my mom for a couple of days,” added Bev. Much of this added independence comes from the home itself. Bev and Bryan – along with the Munro Homes’ team and the various tradespeople who worked on the house – designed the home so that it would be entirely accessible without the institutionalized look that usually accompanies such a home. Some of the couple’s favourite parts of the design are the elevator, the layout and the fully automated nature of the house. The elevator opens up on each side, allowing Bryan to enter and exit it without having to turn around or back up. Each opening has two doors – an inner door that opens accordion-style and an outer door that opens and looks like a bedroom door. This design allows Bryan to easily move between floors, without the presence of a conspicuous elevator.

Bev and Bryan Wilson

The spacious layout not only allows for plenty of family visits, but also gives both Bryan and Bev the space and access they need to use the house in nearly the same way anyone else would. For example, the mechanical room downstairs contains the fuse box, furnace, water heater, work bench and air conditioner, among other things. Each of the items is placed so that Bryan can reach it without having to stretch, and so that Bev can reach it without having to bend. The fully automated nature of the house allows Bryan to control just about every part of the house without having to get out of bed. He can turn the lights or music on or off, adjust the blinds, and even open the front door for visitors. There is also a camera and intercom connected to the front door so that he can see who his visitors are before letting them into the house.

36 You’re home Summer 2014

Explore Kensington Greens, a community of homes with classic architectural charm and enduring craftsmanship. Choose from a selection of affordable and spacious floor plans expertly designed by Reginaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most established home builders. Many homes feature front street verandahs, attached garages, larger back yards, rear lane access and wide lots, making for an inviting streetscape and friendlier neighbourhood. Located in north Regina, Kensington Greens is an architecturally styled development including park spaces, play areas for children and lit pedestrian walkways. Choice park facing sites are available for executive styled homes.

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And, on top of all of that, the home is fully energy-efficient. “Bev and Bryan … are what I would call ‘green,’ ” said McGinnis. “Some of the things that Bev and Bryan have spent significant money on would be the solar panels at the back of the house … [and] they’ve spray-foamed this home.” Both the accessibility and energy efficiency of the home have been huge benefits for Bev and Bryan, and have also gained the home national attention. The house was nominated for a Canadian Home Builders’ Association SAM Award, which is something that McGinnis, Bryan and Bev all take pride in. “These awards are a positive thing; it encourages the builders and homeowners to strive for quality [and] innovation,” said Bryan. The couple said that fully accessible homes represent a need that requires filling. While building custom homes is definitely one way to do so, a homeowner doesn’t need to make their house fully accessible right away. “I would like to encourage people to build your average home with the flexibility in mind for future assisted living,” said Bryan. For example, homeowners could include two walk-in closets – one above the other – that could eventually be turned into an elevator, or doorframes that are 36 inches wide but that have an inner frame to accommodate an average-sized door. But the most important thing to remember is to do your research. If you need an accessible home, make sure you don’t buy one that’s just wheelchair friendly, which is a house that has been adapted to a wheelchair. It’s also important to know what’s available and what’s realistic, and to make sure you include your builder in the process. Building a fully accessible home that you’ll enjoy can’t be done alone – it takes a team of people dedicated to making sure you get a home that truly fits you and your needs. n

38 You’re home Summer 2014

Light

Invite

into your home

dark home can be dreary and drain residents’ energy levels rather quickly. Natural light has the power to make a person feel more energized, and it also can buoy spirits. As a result, many homeowners want to increase the amount of natural light in their homes. Increasing natural sunlight in a home reduces reliance on interior lighting. This reduces energy bills and lowers the home’s carbon footprint. Natural light also can help people in a home feel happier and more content. Some people experience serious mood changes during the winter months. Dubbed seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, this condition may be effectively treated with light therapy. Exposure to more light can alleviate fatigue, loss of interest and sad or anxious feelings. Homeowners looking to increase the natural light in their homes, be it for medical or aesthetic reasons, can do so in a variety of ways. • Keep the drapes open. Opening blinds and curtains as far as they will go allows as much light to shine in without having to do major home renovations or spend any money at all. Homeowners concerned about privacy can install a window film that allows viewing from the inside only. • Clean the windows. Dirty windows obstruct sunlight from entering the home. They also can make a home appear unkempt. Spend a free day cleaning the windows so that they'll let ample light in. • Install seamless or low-profile windows and doors. Seamless sliding doors enable a large amount of light to enter the home. Such doors can replace an entire wall to brighten up a dark area of a home. The more windows and doors a home has, the brighter it will be. • Take inventory of dark spots. A room may be dark because it simply does not have a layout conducive to brightness. Is a wall blocking light from reaching a portion of the room? Think about changing the room’s layout or even making structural changes to

New windows may allow more natural light to enter a home.

improve light distribution. The addition of a small window on a south- or west-facing wall can greatly improve natural light. Using mirrors can also reflect light where it is needed. • Invest in skylights or solar tubes. Both skylights or solar tubes enable light to enter a home from above. Skylights are larger and require considerably more work to install, while solar tubes are more low-profile and can be put into rooms that do not abut the roofline, such as those obstructed by attic space. The tubular cylinders are installed between the roof and the ceiling and carry light through a reflective tube to the room below. Diffusers on tubular daylighting devices scatter the rays so the light doesn't cast harsh shadows, and UV filters can help protect furniture from discoloring. • Trim shrubs and trees. If trees and bushes are blocking light from entering your home, trim them to enable dappled light to come through. Deciduous trees that will naturally lose their leaves come autumn can be planted on sunny areas of the property. This way in the summer months they will shade the house and keep it cooler, while in winter more sun will stream in when the leaves are shed. • Create a three-season room. Make a spot in the home where sun will be at a premium. A solarium or greenhouse attached to the home can be a warm and sunny spot. Increasing natural light in a home can improve feelings of wellbeing and also reduce energy consumption during daylight hours. (MNS) n

editor's note In the article "Weekend Wonder" which appeared in the Spring edition of You're Home Magazine, Betty Nyhus' husband should have been identified as Ken Runtz. You’re home Summer 2014 39

By Carson Arthur Outdoor Expert on Cityline, the Shopping Channel and Television Host of HGTV's Critical Listing

How to catch a boomer

lanning to sell your home in the next few years and cash in big on the real estate market? Well, you’re not alone! According to Century 21, almost half of Canadians are planning to do the same in the next five years. I haven’t met a homeowner who didn’t want to know that they would get top dollar for their house when it’s time to sell. One of the best ways to ensure this happens is to know your buyer and create a space that meets their needs. So how are you going to make your house irresistible and land the big fish? There are lots of potential buyers out there, but when it comes to the ‘big fish’, you’re looking for a Baby Boomer. All the newest research shows that Boomers are on the move and they are looking to right-size their living situations. If you’re in this category, you probably know what I’m saying. Boomers are cashing in their big family homes, stashing some money for retirement and spending the rest on their new dream spaces. With the deepest pockets and the most available cash, catching a Boomer is as simple as knowing the best bait. Unfortunately, there are a few things about your home you can’t change. Location is a big one. Boomers place location as their top motivating factor. To the Boomers, having a sense of belonging in a community is paramount. They want to live in great neighbourhoods with lots of like-minded people. The best way to make this idea of socialization work for you, and to ensure that your listed home gets lots of attention, is to have great spaces for entertaining. The backyard is the perfect spot to create that extra room, exactly what the Boomer buyer is looking for. Outdoor entertaining has replaced the ‘party room’ in the basement as the location to hold dinner parties, brunches or even just drinks with friends. There are a few elements to a successful outdoor room. You can’t assume that if you have a deck or a patio, you have an outdoor room. Here are the key items that you need to create the perfect outdoor room: 1. Flooring. Just like any indoor room, your outdoor space needs a good floor. Decks and patios have traditionally been the best choice because they hold their value the longest with minimal effort. When choosing the best floor for your outdoor space, budget is always important. My favourite way to spend less and get the biggest return is to use one of the new types of pre-stained pressure treated wood. I’ve personally had great 40 You’re home Summer 2014

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experience with MicroPro Sienna; this wood looks like cedar but costs significantly less and allows you to create the impression of an outdoor hardwood floor with less maintenance. If you already have a patio or a deck, consider adding an outdoor area rug. A wellplaced rug can define a space, introduce a colour scheme or even create a focal point. 2. Walls. Outdoor walls are not just for hanging pots. The walls around your outdoor room are also very important to create privacy. Whenever I mention outdoor walls, people always assume that I’m referring to the fences around the property line. To me, the fence defines a boundary, whereas the walls around an outdoor room create intimacy and keep your guests from feeling like they are on display. The key to a successful privacy screen is to keep it close to where you actually need privacy. Sit in your space and take a look at which neighbours can see you. These are the lines of sight that need outdoor walls! 3. Roof. Not just for blocking the sun, an outdoor roof defines the room. My favourite option will always be the pergola. Great for growing vines, creating ambience, even for hanging outdoor lights, the pergola makes any outdoor space feel welcoming and intimate. Some may think a pergola is purely decorative, but to me, when I walk into an outdoor room with a roof, it just feels right. It’s that intangible connection that you want a potential buyer to unconsciously notice. Every renovation we make to our homes not only has to meet our needs as homeowners, it should also increase the home’s value. This idea of return-on-investment (ROI) has arguably become the most important factor influencing how we spend our renovation budgets. If you can create a home that works for your family and at the same time know that it’s the type of home a future buyer wants: then it’s a win-win in my books! Anybody who fishes knows that you should bait your hook with what the big fish wants the most. A perfect outdoor room will definitely help you land a Boomer! n 42 You’re home Summer 2014

The best way to make this idea of socialization work for you, and ensure that your listed home gets lots of attention, is to have great spaces for entertaining.

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Homes that support a worthy cause By miranda burski

here are plenty of ways to support charities in Regina. You could volunteer your time, make a monetary donation, or, in some cases, donate food or clothing. But for many people, the preferred way to support a charity is to purchase a lottery ticket.

Every year, a number of Saskatchewan-based charities sell tickets for lotteries that support a variety of causes in the province. The lottery prizes range from money to vehicles to trips, but some of the most popular prizes are the houses. Offering showhomes in Regina as part of their list of prizes this year were the Hospitals of Regina Foundation and STARS, while the Children’s Wish Foundation will be offering a $1 million grand prize that could be used to build a house anywhere in the province. For lottery-ticket buyers, this means three chances to win the house of their dreams. But for the companies who design and build the homes, it’s a chance to get creative while supporting a worthy cause. “We were able to design a house for the Hospitals of Regina Foundation Lottery,” said Colin Hanoski, site and service manager with Varsity Homes Ltd. “The home was designed in our in-house drafting department. Once the house was built, we had interior stylists come in and select all of the furnishings. Bonnie, our sales manager, selected the cabinets, flooring and paint colours.”

Hospitals of Regina Foundation Lottery Grand Prize Showhome - Varsity Homes Ltd. - Photos by Miranda Burski 44 You’re home Summer 2014

Duane Slater, vice-president of D & S Homes, said that designing the grandprize house for the STARS Lottery provided much the same opportunity. “We like to design a home that appeals to most people.” The Hospitals of Regina Foundation Lottery’s grand-prize showhome comes in at approximately 1,960 square feet. The house features everything from a master bedroom with a large ensuite bathroom, to a bar in the basement, to large windows that let in plenty of natural light. The back deck – which comes equipped with a gas fireplace and TV – is enclosed, creating an extra space that can be enjoyed during the majority of the year.

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The lottery prizes range from money to vehicles to trips, but some of the most popular prizes are the houses. upstairs, two bedrooms downstairs, and plenty of space to entertain – including a gourmet kitchen, a downstairs bar and a wine storage area. And, because the lot has so much space, the designers were also able to include an oversized garage that can accommodate four cars. Add in the 10- to 11-foot ceilings, and you have a home that’s stylish, comfortable and close to nature.

One of the most unique aspects of the house, however, is the small room that’s hidden behind a bookshelf in the basement. “We wanted to take the opportunity to showcase an exceptional design. The floor plan allowed for a natural location. Not all floor plans have a suitable location for a hidden room,” said Hanoski. Another major upgrade for the home is the home automation system installed throughout. This allows the homeowner to control just about any piece of technology within the home using a single remote control, tablet or smartphone, “including audio, video, surveillance, lighting and heating,” said Hanoski. The STARS Lottery grand prize house, while different, is no less of a dream home. Sitting on nearly an acre of land, the walkout lot backs onto a creek bed and provides plenty of opportunity to enjoy the prairie landscape. Inside the house are two bedrooms and a den 46 You’re home Summer 2014

The exclusive and appealing features of grand prize showhomes don’t go unnoticed by the public. Tickets for both the Hospitals of Regina Foundation and STARS lotteries generally sell out each year. The houses aren’t the reason for the tickets selling out, of course, but it is likely they play a role. “The Hospitals of Regina Foundation has done a tremendous job of marketing their foundation, and, because of that, the tickets sell out early,” said Hanoski. “We have had very positive feedback on the home and hope that the Hospitals of Regina Foundation is as proud of the home as we are.” This was the first year that Varsity Homes has taken part in building a showhome for a charity event such as the Hospitals of Regina Foundation Lottery. The company decided to accept the opportunity, Hanoski said, because they felt it gave them a chance to become more involved with their community and support a worthwhile cause. He added that the company would take the opportunity to participate again in the future.

STARS Lottery Home rendering - D & S Homes D & S Homes has designed and built the STARS Lottery grand prize home in Saskatoon for the past three years, and for the first time this year, has created the Regina STARS Lottery Home. According to Slater, the home-building company wants to do what they can for the organization because of STARS’ great contribution to the well-being of Saskatchewan residents. In addition to designing and building the grand prize houses, D & S Homes also

Out of the charity-based lotteries selling tickets in Regina this year, three include houses or house-related prizes in their prize listings.

makes monetary donations to the organization. “STARS is an incredible organization; bottom line, they save lives,” said Slater. “It’s an incredible tool, and the difference between life and death a lot of times.” He added that D & S Homes will continue its relationship with STARS for as long as possible. n

You don’t need to go outside for clean fresh air

The Hospitals of Regina Foundation • Proceeds help Regina hospitals purchase fluoroscopy equipment. • Grand prize showhome is located in the Creeks in Regina. • Winners were announced May 8. • More information at www.hrfhomelottery.com. STARS Lottery Saskatchewan • Proceeds benefit the STARS air ambulance program. • The grand prize showhome just outside of Regina is located in Spruce Creek Estates.

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• Loyalty draw was May 28; early bird draw is July 18; final draw is August 11 to 13. • More information at www.starslotterysaskatchewan.ca. Children’s Wish Home Lottery • Proceeds benefit the Children’s Wish Foundation. • Grand prize is $1 million that can be used toward building a house anywhere in Saskatchewan. • Ticket draws will take place in the fall. • More information at www.wishhomelottery.ca.

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You’re home Summer 2014 47

Breathe easy Air-purifying hardwood floor a first By jessica mees

f someone told you about a floor that cleaned the air and surfaces within your home, would you think it was too good to be true?

In addition to the many lifestyle benefits it offers, Lauzon certainly isn't lacking style.

Such a floor finally does exist and it isn’t quite magic – just Pure Genius science. “Lauzon’s Pure Genius is a light-activated nanotechnology that can be activated using natural or artificial light. Pure Genius is an air-purifying agent made of titanium dioxide (ti02), integrated into Lauzon’s Titanium floor finish. Activated by natural and artificial light, it breaks contaminants on contact, turning harmful molecules such as formaldehydes, bacteria and odours into carbon dioxide and water vapour. Its constant and consistent action is so effective that over time it makes the indoor air up to 85 per cent cleaner,” explained Erin Capp, owner of The Floor Show (Regina) Ltd. “Because air flow is always happening in your home – warm air goes up, cool air goes down – it keeps the floor activated and it continues to purify the air.” The Pure Genius flooring removes the volatile

48 You’re home Summer 2014

organic compounds (VOCs) and toxins in the air caused by exhaust fumes from paint, drywall, or even tracked in by pets or people. It has the ability to break down harmful airborne toxins such as nitrous oxide and formaldehyde – comparable to having three live trees growing in your home. “The activation time takes about two to three months to work at its full capacity, but after that time, your air and floor will both be cleaner. Because Pure Genius breaks down allergens, mites, mildew, etc., it keeps the floor surface cleaner than a traditional hardwood floor.” Capp adds that Lauzon’s Pure Genius finish “only changes the flooring costs by pennies per square foot.” Lauzon owns the patent on this specific flooring technology for the next five years, so at present they are the only hardwood flooring company to offer titanium dioxide finishes. However, Capp expects to see this type of surface to be utilized in other types of products around the world, particularly in Europe.

“There has been an increase in the number of manufacturers who have been launching active surfaces. For example, several products are commercially available that feature light-activated agents including ceramic, luxury vinyl, paint, glass and more,” she confirmed. There is a big reason for this trend. Air-purifying surfaces can significantly improve one’s health. With so many products and activities in an average daily life emitting dangerous and harmful VOCs, the incidences of diseases such as cancer and asthma have increased rapidly within the last century. Pure Genius aims to create 85 per cent cleaner air and is in the process of becoming a certified asthma-friendly product. In addition to the many lifestyle benefits it offers, Lauzon certainly isn’t lacking style. “Lauzon is one of the most innovative flooring companies in Canada, (launching) new colours and new styles on a consistent basis, which is why I sell it,” Capp said. “A lot of the new lines that we’ve been carrying are from Lauzon. I try to carry the latest and most interesting products out there.” The Floor Show is the only retailer in southern Saskatchewan carrying Pure Genius. To get more information on this product or find other innovative flooring ideas, visit their show room at 435 Dewdney Avenue, or visit www.thefloorshow.ca. n

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Forward thinking By jeannie armstrong

issue. Through our expertise and capabilities in modular construction, we realized we could contribute to improving that rental vacancy rate by bringing on multi-unit rental apartments faster than a developer who used traditional stick-build methods,” said McDougald.

here’s the way things have always been done... and then there’s forward thinking. Forward thinkers are innovators who look towards the goals of tomorrow and find the methods to achieve them. It’s an apt description of the novel approaches to residential construction being taken by the team at Deveraux Homes in Regina.

“That facet of our business is something that sets us apart in the industry. People realized that we at Deveraux aren’t afraid to take some risks in finding solutions to problems and issues.”

The company was formally established in 2009 by principle owners Dennis Jones and Kevin Gelsinger. “We had a humble start with a handful of custom homes initially. Now we’re building 30-plus homes a year,” said Jamie McDougald, Chief Operating Officer of Deveraux Homes. “We also have established Devereaux Developments, with a multi-family focus. We’ve built over 600 apartment units in Regina in the past three years.” McDougald says that Deveraux Homes likes to challenge industry standards, whether they’re building introductory or custom homes, or multi-family projects. “We call it the ‘Deveraux Difference.’”

BONE STRUCTURE

Forward thinkers are innovators who look towards the goals of tomorrow and find the methods to achieve them.

The ‘Deveraux Difference’ has three tenets: quality craftsmanship, masterful design and superior customer service, he explains. The Deveraux Difference is also apparent in the innovative approaches the company has taken in providing solutions to perceived areas of need in Regina’s housing market. “We identified that Regina had a very serious rental vacancy 50 You’re home Summer 2014

Deveraux Homes is now embracing another new construction technology: Bone Structure. Based in Montreal, Bone Structure is the brainchild of Marc Bovet, a former executive team member with Bombardier Inc. “His experience is in aerospace construction. He was renovating his own home and had an epiphany. There was concrete and steel construction for commercial purposes; why not for the residential market? He developed Bone Structure, a product for the residential market that was strong and robust, yet affordable,” said McDougald. With Bone Structure, there are no nails, no cuts and no waste. The patented construction system utilizes pre-cut pieces of strong, lightweight steel which quickly clip together to frame a house.

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With Bone Structure, there are no nails, no cuts and no waste. Bone Structure’s galvanized steel framework gives the term ‘open concept floor plan’ new meaning. “They are able to do 25-foot spans without any interior load-bearing walls. It can really open up home design,” said McDougald. Because of the spacing of the studs, multiple windows, including floor-to-ceiling panes, can be incorporated into the structure. Bone Structure’s steel building components are precision manufactured. “Because it’s produced with such precision, there is limited waste in the factory and zero waste at the build site. The galvanized steel structure is extremely strong, stable and robust. This structure will stand up to greater forces than stick-framed construction,” said McDougald. Energy savings are also realized through the use of Structural Insulated Panels (SIP) that clip between the steel studs. “There is also 2 1/2 inches of spray foam around the entire exterior of the building,” said McDougald. “The R-value of their walls is 28.5 and the R-value of the roofing system is 56. It’s superior to what we are able to provide through batt insulation through typical construction.” A Bone Structure build begins with the design of the residential or commercial space. “We work with Bone Structure’s architects and engineers to finalize the design. They produce the product in one of their seven factories in Quebec and then ship it to us,” said McDougald. Once the pre-fabricated components arrive at the building site, a Bone Structure home can proceed at lightning speed. McDougald estimates that a standard size home can be taken to close-up stage in a week, by a crew of four. “There’s no cutting, no hammering. It’s a pretty straight-forward process.”

McDougald, adding that the company has plans to do several Bone Structure builds this season in both a light commercial and a residential context. “Our first Bone Structure build is going to be our own new Deveraux office building located on Turvey Road in Ross Industrial Park in Regina. It’s a two-storey, 7,000 square foot office complex. A ‘Bare Bones’ event took place in early June during the early construction phase, providing people with an opportunity to get a close-up look at Bone Structure, before the walls of the office complex were closed in. “We are also just finalizing the design of a showhome we are going to build in The Greens on Gardiner out of Bone Structure,” said McDougald. “It’s going to take some time to gain some traction and momentum, but I see it as something that Regina homeowners will embrace, once its efficiency and design benefits are demonstrated,” said McDougald.

CARRIAGE HOME PILOT PROJECT Deveraux Homes has also demonstrated its forward thinking by participating in Regina’s exciting carriage home pilot project, located on Green Apple Drive in The Greens on Gardiner. Each of the 11 streetfront residences features a detached combination revenue/garage property facing the back lane, known as carriage or laneway homes. “What this carriage home project is trying to achieve is a solution to two things: one is home affordability and the second is the low vacancy rate in the Regina rental market,” said McDougald.

Bone Structure has built approximately 250 homes in Quebec and Ontario, and is now looking to expand across Western Canada. “We’ve become the Regina and area authorized builder for Bone Structure. At this point in time, there are no other dealers in the province,” said McDougald.

Green Apple Drive is an attractively landscaped tree-lined street in The Greens on Gardiner. The lots developed by Yagar Developments Inc. are deeper than conventional residential lots, measuring 125 feet deep and 38 to 40 feet across. Each lot easily accommodates both the primary residence and the laneway home designed and constructed by Deveraux Homes.

Deveraux Homes will continue to construct stick-built homes, seeing the Bone Structure technology as another option for Regina homeowners to consider. “We’re in early days of this,” said

“The purchasers can live in the primary dwelling while renting out the detached laneway home and use that revenue to significantly reduce their mortgage payment,” said McDougald.

52 You’re home Summer 2014

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Powering the future

Six of the 11 residences have been sold in advance of the completion of Deveraux Homes’ showhome on Green Apple Drive this fall. “We anticipate that the balance of these homes will sell quite quickly with the opening of our primary and carriage suite showhomes,” said McDougald.

The primary residences are attractive three-bedroom, 2.5 bath homes, averaging close to 1,600 square feet in size. Three different models of laneway homes have been developed, including one- and twobedroom options that top either a double or triple garage. Deveraux Homes has priced the properties starting at $564,900. A forty-foot stretch of backyard separates the primary residence from the rental property, ensuring plenty of privacy for the homeowners and renters alike. “The carriage suite has its own private, separate entrance. The design is very functional. Each carriage suite has a spacious open concept living room and kitchen, a bathroom and one or two bedrooms. An opaque window overlooks the backyard, ensuring privacy while letting in the natural light. Each carriage suite also has a balcony that faces the paved lane,” said McDougald.

The Green Apple Drive development is the first of two carriage house pilot projects in Regina. “In Phase Two, we will be building up to 20 carriage homes in Harbour Landing. We’re in the design phase for that project.”

Purchasers can live in the primary dwelling while renting out the detached laneway home.

Some individuals who have expressed interest in the carriage homes aren’t interested in having a rental property, he adds. “They’re looking for accommodations for a caregiver, adult children still living at home or a parent.”

To date, the response to the carriage home pilot project has been overwhelmingly positive, said McDougald. “The location is second to none. It’s in a beautiful area. People are also impressed by how there is such a separation between the primary and the secondary residences. The spaciousness of the carriage suites has also impressed people.” 54 You’re home Summer 2014

McDougald says the lots in the second pilot project will likely be slightly narrower, necessitating some minor modifications to their carriage home designs. “The City wants to see if this will work in a slightly more dense neighbourhood.” Construction on the second pilot project will begin in 2015.

Deveraux Homes sees the carriage home concept as a viable housing option for Regina. “Based on the anticipated success of these two pilot projects, we feel it is a housing solution that will be embraced by residents of Regina as well as city government,” said McDougald. For details, visit www.deveraux.ca. n

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5 Top

Trends

in home furnishings By julie folk

his year, very distinctive designs are emerging in home interiors. We talked to decorating consultants, Brenda Gordon and Launa Koch, with Alford Floors & Interiors (1965) Ltd. to discover the latest trends. Gordon, who just returned from High Point Market – the largest furniture industry trade show in the world – explained with Koch the trends they are already seeing in Regina homes, and those that are up-and-coming.

Blending masculine and feminine textures

Interiors are becoming much more masculine, including textures such as suit fabrics and leathers, heavier furniture, and patterns such as stripes and geometric lines that are straight and bold. Lighting is taking on an industrial feel, with aged brushed brass and iron. Tables are including much more metal and wood, and colours are trending toward deep, rustic, rich colours. “This trend is based on what’s happening in society,” said Gordon. “Men are spending more time at home, and are becoming more equal with women in participating in decisions about home design. We see this especially when doing new home builds.” While some spaces have a strictly masculine feel, others still bring in softer feminine touches to create more of a blend and a nice 60 You’re home Summer 2014

balance in space.

Industrial chic Flowing from the masculine textures is the industrial chic trend, which is emerging more than ever in down-to-earth contemporary spaces. You’ve seen it in trendy restaurants and coffee shops, and now it’s coming into your home. “This look originates from old factory warehouses, farmhouses, used reclaimed wood, recycled wood, exposed brick, pipe work, and unique and aging metals,” said Gordon. Picture exposed brick and beams, pipework in furniture, and seeing the exposed joining bolts. Overall, there is a commercial and masculine feel, including iron fixtures and Edison lamps. Everything is on a much larger scale as well – think commercial kitchens, with one larger statement island lighting piece rather than multiple smaller hanging lights.

Art deco

Warm metals, geometric patterns, cool jewel tones, and glossy finishes create an art deco feel. It’s the feeling of The Great Gatsby, but in a 2014 setting.

Art deco

Layered textures

Masculine & Feminine “It’s glamorous, kind of old fashioned, but with clean lines to keep it up to date,” said Koch. “We’re seeing a lot of these warm metals – a brushed brass or aged brass – in anything from mirrors to furniture pieces to light fixtures.” Mirrors have an aged patina look, with a faux finish or mercury glass look. It’s the mix of old and new, with a variety of textures.

Layered textures

Patterns no longer need to always match – clash your fabrics and stimulate your senses. Throw together stripes, florals, hand sketches, animal prints, and geometrics in an array of colours and textures. “You can do this with white on white or something more monochromatic as well, but you would want to layer textures for a less dramatic look,” said Koch. “You don’t need colour everywhere, but you can include a variety of fabrics such as something knit, something woven, and something linen. It gives a nice, layered look that makes it warm and inviting.” This can be done with colour as well, such as a mix of textures and patterns of throw cushions. One colour or pattern should be used to link everything together – for example a splash of one particular

Seaside

Industrial chic colour in each layer – but you can blend and play with it.

Seaside look

If you enjoy the layered, softer, and less dramatic look, then this lends itself well to the seaside look. Seaside themes don’t have to be literal, but will portray the feel. “It’s sand and stone colours mixed with whites, soft blues and greens,” said Koch. “It’s textures of weathered wood, rope, seashells and coral shapes. Linens and chunky knit textures combine nicely.” Touch should be the focus – fabrics and finishes with warmth and depth. The soft colours will allow the texture and touch of materials to take the forefront. This can be accomplished with large scale knits and macramé in décor and furniture, such as area rugs, or rope or wicker lamps and tables. While some looks are linked, others have their offshoots and others are much different. Most importantly, determine what trends – or what within the trend – resounds with you. Then have fun with it! n

You’re home Summer 2014 61

Switch

Make the

Many ways to light up your home

ver more than three decades in the business of lighting, Don Richardson has had the opportunity to observe various lighting technologies come and go. As co-owner of Richardson Lighting and part of its management team, Richardson advises his customers regarding the strengths and weaknesses of the latest available light bulbs and how they can best illuminate their homes. In recent years, the bulbs currently on the market have surpassed the performance of incandescent technology in virtually every respect. First, halogen bulbs have proven more power-efficient for

By andrew livingstone

their light output. “They can focus the beam quite well to be able to take over higher wattage incandescent lamps,” Richardson said. “For example, a 100-watt halogen may have been equivalent to a 150-watt standard incandescent of the old style.” Now, incandescents are so inefficient as to be obsolete, and compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) and light-emitting diodes (LEDs) compete with halogens for sales’ space. With much the same colour and quality of light, it can be difficult to choose between them. All three can achieve similar light emission, but the intensity and direction of that illumination varies slightly. As in their early days, halogens are still strong as directional light sources. “Probably the biggest role of the halogen bulb was in the flood-style, directional types, where you want to shine a spot down on something – a task light or an accent light,” said Richardson. That is a role that LEDs can also perform, he added. “In the past, the LEDs have been better as a directional, comparable to the halogens.” By comparison, CFLs are at their best as more general light sources. This means that, in workspaces like kitchen counters and reading tables, LEDs and halogens are ideal. “Our most common light for a kitchen is a recessed, directional light that you’d run around the perimeter of a cupboard,” Richardson said. “The only option you’d be looking at is a halogen or an LED – you wouldn’t be looking at a CFL for that.” Even in spaces where a diffuse light is desirable, CFLs are not the only solution though. For non-task lighting in a basement or general area, Richardson said that homeowners will find that CFLs, LEDs or

62 You’re home Summer 2014

softer BR (bulbous reflector) floodlights will do the job. The goal is to achieve “a softer, more spreading light,” said Richardson. Indeed, the superiority and versatility of LEDs is only undermined by their purchase price. As the newest of the three products, “the biggest hurdle with LED right now is the cost,” Richardson said. “LEDs are probably running from $24 to $45, whereas, depending on style, CFLs are maybe $3.95 to $12.95 for even a flood-style or a BR, so there’s quite a difference there. They’ll eventually come down.” Ultimately, however, that cost is at least partially offset by other financial considerations. Just as halogens improved on the electrical demands of incandescents and CFLs trumped the efficiency of halogens, LEDs expend even less electricity than the previous generation of bulb. A 15-watt CFL could replace a 60-watt incandescent, but that four-to-one ratio increases to five-to-one in an LED.

In consideration of the realities of cost and performance, Richardson offers his own advice as to where an LED is most valuable to the consumer: “Where would I use an LED? I would probably focus on areas that are either hard to get at or areas that are burning for long periods of time. If you’re burning something 24/7, that’s definitely a good spot for an LED, because your changes are going to be minimized and you’ll realize the quickest payback. That being said, I wouldn’t overlook them in any other area at a premium cost.” n

“Making Safety Everyone’s Business”

With each generation of technology, the lifespan of the bulb also improves, thus reducing the cost of replacement. A CFL that replaces the standard 60-watt incandescent is expected to have a lifespan of 8,000 to 10,000 hours, whereas the same strength of LED is estimated to last for 25,000 to 40,000 hours. For the environmentally conscious buyer, the greater efficiency and longer lives of LEDs have a value beyond the financial, and any concern for the sustainability of the various bulbs must consider the danger posed if CFLs are improperly discarded. Although CFLs contain less mercury than their older, tube-shaped cousins, they do still contain the toxic element.

Providing cost effective, quality safety training and advice to the construction industry in Saskatchewan Your Home Builder’s Partner in Achieving 498 Henderson Drive | Regina SK S4N 6E3 | 306.525.0175 www.scsaonline.ca f t in You’re home Summer 2014 63

Female

ingenuity

200K Women Build – unique to Habitat Regina By ashleigh mattern

n 2011, Trish Bezborotko and Yvonne Slobodian launched Habitat for Humanity Regina's 100K in 100 Days. The goal was to raise $100,000 in 100 days to build a home for a family in need.

They ended up raising the money in only 49 days. The success of that project encouraged them to do another build, on a bigger scale. “There was so much demand the first time around for people to be involved, we thought, let's double the goal,” said Bezborotko. For the 200K Women Build, 200 women contributed $1,000, this time raising $200,000. Habitat Regina recruited the women and reached the fundraising goal in 2013. Construction on the two homes at the Habitat Plains development at 263 Lewvan Drive started in February, and the homes should be completed by the end of the year. “These women include women from all backgrounds, but they are coming together for one common goal, to build homes in Regina for families who are in need of a hand up – not a hand out,” said Jessica Tiefenbach, Habitat Regina marketing and communications manager. “The majority of the building on these two homes will be completed by the women who each contributed to the funding.” The basic cost of a home is $100,000. Tiefenbach said Habitat thought it might be easier to find 100 women willing to donate $1,000 each than to find one business to sponsor the full amount. Though Women Build is an international Habitat for Humanity program, the idea of having 100 or 200 women each pitch in $1,000 is unique to Habitat Regina.

“There was so much demand the first time around for people to be involved, we thought, let's double the goal,” said Bezborotko. 64 You’re home Summer 2014

“[100K in 100 Days] was seen as a way to get women involved on the build site while they also covered the bricks and mortar costs of building the home,” said Tiefenbach. “This way we brought women and community together to build a home for a single mother in Regina.” In Regina, more than 60 per cent of Habitat's volunteer work force is made up of women, but Tiefenbach says bringing together so many women on one build creates a special energy. Bezborotko agrees, saying the enthusiasm was overwhelming.

“I couldn't believe the desire that women had to come together and make this happen,” said Bezborotko. “I attributed a lot of that to the fact that women, by nature, we're nesters at heart. Our homes really mean a lot to us, no matter what position of life we're in. “Because we're built that way or wired that way, there was that much more compassion for people struggling to find a place to call home. So many women were so eager to sign on and willing to write a cheque for $1,000 because they wanted other people to have the opportunity to have a home of their own.” The woman they built the first home for happened to be an electrician, so she got the opportunity to help with the wiring for

We don’t cover it up…

her own house. For the 200k project, the group is also building homes for single moms, but Bezborotko points out that might not always be the case going forward. The group would be just as happy to build a home for a single dad or a two-parent family. Their original goal was to raise $1 million over 10 years, to build 10 homes, and by building two homes this year, they're already ahead of that goal. “It's mind boggling, actually, when you think $300,000 has been raised,” said Bezborotko. Anyone can volunteer to work on the current project, and there will be opportunities to donate for next year's project. For more information, visit www.habitatregina.ca. n

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How to design a

pet-friendly

home By jessica mees

hey wiggle, they whine, they bark, they play, and they fill a home with joy. Pets can be a great addition to a growing family, but they also have the potential to wreak havoc on our brand new beautiful homes. The good news is – it doesn’t have to be like that. Products are now designed with pet lovers and their furry children in mind.

pet-friendly as you can get,” she added. “Vinyl plank flooring is becoming very popular in the residential market. This product can mimic the look of hardwood and tile flooring. This is probably one of the best options on the market today. It has many benefits, such as durability, scratch resistance and it is soft under foot and impervious to moisture."

“If you’re going to get a pet, choosing the right type of flooring and fabric for your furniture is very important,” said Christy Dunbar, owner and designer at House Envy Interiors. “There are a few options out there when incorporating pet-friendly design.”

Visually, vinyl and laminate flooring have come a long way in the last five years. “It is getting harder and harder to tell what is the real deal anymore when comparing the look and feel of hardwood, laminate and vinyl plank flooring.”

Although Dunbar admits there may not be a perfect flooring option for pet owners, there are options that make life a little easier. There are pros and cons to every type of flooring on the market today.

As many pet owners already know, carpet can be a handful for anyone with four-legged roommates. With the accidental piddles, paws tracking in mud, and of course the hair, carpet absorbs everything.

“Hardwood is a very popular choice and is extremely beautiful but depending on the type of species you select, it can be quite soft and unforgiving which means you and your pet may scratch the floor over time. You do have the ability to refinish the floor but you may feel disappointed with your investment in the short term.”

For those who are really stuck on the idea of carpet however, Dunbar does have a suggestion.

Laminate is a good alternative in terms of durability and price. "However, since laminate is so durable and hard, it makes it very slippery for dogs and they have a hard time maneuvering around the home,” Dunbar said. A good solution would be placing an area rug in the main living area so that your pet has a safe place to retreat to. “There is the option of porcelain tile or a natural stone, which is extremely durable and can be impervious to scratches, feces and hair, but they are quite cold to the touch both for people and their pets and can make a space feel ‘cold’.” Another option to consider is bamboo or cork flooring. Both products are from natural and renewable materials. They are not only an environmentally-friendly choice but they are also antimicrobial and hypoallergenic. As well, cork flooring is a great choice for pets and people with joint pain since the surface will bounce back on impact. “They won’t hold smells and bacteria caused by a pet. This is as 66 You’re home Summer 2014

“You could go with carpet tiles instead of a broadloom carpet, which gives you the option to replace a tile or multiple tiles of the floor when needed,” she said. “You just pull up one tile, and lay a new one down. Just remember to order a few extra tiles.” This type of carpet is used mostly for commercial applications, but they do make great options more suitable for a residential application.

Of course, there are many flooring options, but what about fabric for your furniture? “My option for fabric is to keep your pets off of it,” she laughed. “No, that isn’t realistic in most cases. My dog lives on my furniture when we are not home, of course!” Obviously training your pet to stay off the furniture is the best way to keep your fabric looking good longer. Dunbar suggests a high quality leather as the prime contender. It may be the most costly but it will repel moisture, hair, dander and pet smells. It can be wiped easily. Leather can also be cool to the touch which isn’t as comfortable for some of the smaller, less hairy breeds of dogs which in itself is a good deterrent. Distressed leather is another great option since it will hide the imperfections left behind by your pets. “If you can’t afford leather, you can always choose faux leather or vinyl. The problem is you might see holes and scratches a little easier with these because they are a less forgiving fabric,” she said. The benefit to this type of fabric; it can be wiped down and will not hold the smell and dirt. Another fabric option is to incorporate patterned fabric as opposed to a solid fabric. “Patterned fabric tends to be a little more forgiving; it will hide surface stains a bit

better,” she said. For those who are creative, good with a sewing machine or love having a unique piece that is strictly their own, the option of slip covers and reupholstering always exist. “You can purchase indoor/outdoor fabric. They have come such a long way. This type of fabric is built to resist fading and water. They are very durable and science has now made it that they are much softer to the touch,” she concluded. ”If you are ordering furniture you can also ask the supplier to apply a (coating of) Scotch guard. Scotch guarding your fabric will help protect it longer especially from spills. It also prevents the fabric from soaking up unwanted moisture.” As a rule of thumb, you should always take the time to weigh the pros and cons of pet ownership: Who is going to walk the pet, what kind of furniture is suitable to your new friend and who is going to clean up any potential messes? If you are wondering what you can do to make your home more pet-friendly, visit www.houseenvy.ca. Christy Dunbar is sure to answer all your questions. n

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Growing Regina

Coopertown offers new concept with a traditional design By wendy livingstone

ight now, the space is 1,900 acres of open farmland that lies to the west of northern Regina, but, in the coming decades, as many as 34,000 Regina residents could call it home. Coopertown, which will comprise several communities, will be designed to satisfy the needs and desires of families and individuals who appreciate the look and feel of older neighbourhoods and may want to reduce their dependence on the automobile. “It’s a concept just like you would see in smaller centres or towns around the province. It will be more quaint and organic, with a very attractive streetscape – a very similar vibe or feeling to 13th Avenue in Regina or Broadway Avenue in Saskatoon – vibrant, attractive, and sustainable too,” said Evan Hunchak, land development manager of Dream Development (formerly Dundee Developments). Homes will have back lanes, and the community will be laid out in a grid pattern with blocks that are shorter than those in most recently-developed communities in order to accommodate pedestrians, cyclists, buses and automobiles. “You are encouraging people to walk, to bicycle and use transit as opposed to driving because you are making it convenient for those other modes of transportation,” said Hunchak. “The efficient layout will disperse traffic instead of concentrating it and enhance connections for pedestrians and cyclists.” Residents will not be at a loss for where to park their vehicles when not in use – since back lanes will negate the necessity for front driveways, on-street parking will be plentiful, with spots for more than 28,000 vehicles. Rochdale Boulevard will serve as the community’s traditional 68 You’re home Summer 2014

main street, with businesses such as butchers, bakers, hair stylists, bars, restaurants, coffee shops and grocery stores. Some buildings could be dual-purpose with apartments above or behind the shops. “Instead of the bigger box [stores] like we already have along Rochdale Boulevard, our focus will be on smaller local businesses to complement retail opportunities in Regina’s northwest. It will be a really attractive setting, where a person would love to spend an afternoon or an evening in the summer or winter just because of all the activity going on,” he added. Hunchak said the extended Rochdale Boulevard would be designed to provide an aesthetically pleasing streetscape, with a large median and trees down the centre, possibly with lights strung across the street. “It would have a beautiful urban appearance, year-round. There’d be a plaza, kind of similar in concept to what was constructed downtown, along with an amphitheatre, a meeting area, splash pads and a pool for kids to play at. It would be built so it could be used for many different purposes.” The area will see a diverse blend of housing styles. “A mix of any form of housing that you would find in the city would be available, plus some new housing forms that you don’t even see in Saskatchewan yet,” said Hunchak. The project has been in development for four years, but Dream hopes to begin breaking ground this summer on Elmbridge, which is phase 1 and is the first of six planned communities in the development. “We have engineering plans already created and presently [are going] through the development approval process with the City of Regina. It would be our intention to install water and sewer lines for the first 650 lots this year and, if we are able to do that, the first lots would be available for construction this coming winter or spring 2015,” said Hunchak.

In addition to Elmbridge, communities will include: The Village, Wellmanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Farm, Coopertown West, Rosewood Park and North Park. The medium-density communities have the potential to be served by six elementary schools and one high school. The walkability of the neighbourhood is particularly important for school children, and it is proposed that 85 per cent of residents will be within a 15-minute walk of elementary schools. A linked system of green space will connect different parts of the community with each other, play structures and soccer fields through naturalized corridors and linear parks, resulting in 100 per cent of the residences being less than a five-minute walk to a park. To further encourage a reduction in the production of greenhouse gasses through the use of motorized transportation, extra wide bike lanes will be built within the park network and adjacent to roads throughout the community. For times when vehicular transportation is required and residents wish to reach destinations outside Coopertown, interchanges for the connecting points of Armour Road and Ninth Avenue North are planned for the coming decades. Architectural guidelines will ensure that Coopertownâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s homes and landscaping are as aesthetically pleasing as the community is convenient for its residents. For more information visit www.coopertown.ca. n

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Reconnecting

The Ensuite The combinaton of quality product and design expertise ensures that every project will match every customer's style and budget.

By michele tyndall

he Ensuite is the premier Kohler bath and kitchen showroom in Regina and is a successful division of EMCO Corporation.

Since its incorporation in 1906, EMCO has been a leading distributor for products and materials used in residential, industrial and commercial construction. In Regina, EMCO has been a member of the Regina & Region Home Builders’ Association (RRHBA) since 1971, and takes great pride in providing the latest products at great value to their customers. All RRHBA members agree to abide by the highest professional standards, and in order to qualify, members go through a rigorous screening process and probationary period. As well, members are provided access to the latest information in the field. “Being a member of the RRHBA means everything to us – they keep the issues in the forefront and they keep us informed with monthly meetings and access to information. For our clients, they get better service with us as an RRHBA member because we’re connected and that helps us meet their needs better,” said Marilyn Day, showroom manager for The Ensuite. Located at 678 Cornwall Street, The Ensuite began as a site to showcase products from EMCO for construction businesses, but it is quickly becoming a destination for many designers, contractors and homeowners looking for the best selection in bathroom and kitchen items for a variety of projects. “We’re new and we’re still in the building stage. But we can see the business starting to grow and we’re just on the cusp of becoming much larger,” said Day. Whether for new builds or for renovations, The Ensuite offers a wide range of products attractively displayed in their showroom, and boasts a friendly and knowledgeable staff ready to assist contractors and homeowners alike. “Largely, the majority of our customers come from the contractors, plumbers and home builders that buy wholesale through EMCO, but now we’re looking at often providing retail sales to homeowners as well,” said Day.

70 You’re home Summer 2014

In The Ensuite showroom, the range and quality of bathroom and kitchen fittings are sure to suit any need. The Ensuite is proud to be the choice for Kohler Bath and Kitchen products, well known for their high standards in quality and innovation. “Seventy five per cent of our product is Kohler – the quality is clearly there as they are a company that goes above and beyond with their testing. We’re getting set to display their latest products which include a coated stainless steel – it’s scratchproof and we’ll have working displays so that we will be able to let people test it out,” said Day. Being a part of EMCO and the RRHBA makes The Ensuite perfect for customers who want to ensure they are getting the best product while also getting in on the latest trends and discovering all the ways to make their living space unique. “Showers are big right now. People are even pulling out tubs to set up elaborate showers. And we have some great companies committed to water-saving features so people can have that without the big water waste of years ago,” said Day. From frameless enclosures and curved walls to marble slab seating and programmable shower heads, this trend, like many others, gives customers a wide range of stylish possibilities while being cost- and environmentally-conscious at the same time. “People want something different, something new. We show them what the possibilities are and how to put their own stamp on it. We bring world innovation and global ideas to Regina, and whenever there’s new product, our customers tell us: ‘that’s so cool!’ We hear it all the time. So, come on in. We’ve got lots of working displays and a lot of things for you to see that will narrow your focus and drive your interest. We have super-friendly staff and a showroom that is amazing,” said Day. The Ensuite showroom combines a wide array of products with a staff of trained professionals who are continuing to grow in their industry knowledge. The combination of quality product and design expertise ensures that every project will match every customer’s style and budget. EMCO strives to satisfy the needs of its customers with a focused product assortment, transported and sold through an extensive network of branches, distribution warehouses and showrooms across Canada. To find out more, visit www.theensuiteregina.com. n

72 You’re home Summer 2014

uxury is not often a word associated with bathroom and kitchen design, but it should be. The Ensuite, a division of EMCO, opened its Regina showroom in May 2013, and the choices are endless. The open concept layout allows consumers to see, touch and feel products before even taking it home. This unique style of shopping assures customer satisfaction. Anything you can dream of for the two rooms you are sure to use frequently, is surely available at The Ensuite. The

showroom also considers all budgets when featuring and choosing products. With trained consultants who are not only product savvy, but also familiar with the construction industry, finding the perfect fit for any space has never been easier. The professionals on hand will often show you things you never even knew existed. Let your imagination run wild. Stop by the new location to see the latest trends in kitchen and bathroom design.

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Counter G

Intelligence By tom eremondi

ranite, quartz, and Corian. Marble, wood and laminate.

Consumers in the market for kitchen countertops will no doubt have heard of these and many other materials. So how does one decide? Brian McIntyre of Regina’s FloForm Countertops says that, “many of our customers already have their mind made up and it’s based on two main factors. “The first of these is budget,” he explains. “If you’re looking for something very inexpensive, possibly doing a flip property or renovating a rental property, then laminate is the choice. The hard and shiny products will appeal but, if price is the main concern, then laminate is the way to go.” If price isn’t the only consideration, McIntyre says customers will want to check out the huge selection on display at FloForm’s brand new showroom. “We just opened up 4,000 square feet of new retail space at 490 Henderson Drive so there are lots of samples to look at and we can show larger pieces. People can get a really good impression of how materials will look in their own kitchens.”

74 You’re home Summer 2014

“In addition to laminate, we have solid surface, granite and quartz. These are really the big four of the kitchen world. There are highend specialty products such as marble or soapstone but we tend to stay away from them because they’re very high maintenance.” Maintenance is the second – and for many buyers, more crucial factor to consider when buying a countertop product. “If it’s not economical, couples want maintenance-free,” said McIntyre. For this reason, FloForm’s experts often suggest homeowners consider quartz. “We carry and sell more quartz than anything else. It’s a non-porous product so it has easy soap and water cleanup. It also comes in a wide variety of colours so we are able to match many tastes and styles.” He does note a trend in recent months to solid surface countertops. “Solid surfaces, such as Corian, are synthetic. We sell a product from Dupont. People like them because they come in many colours, are heat-resistant, durable and easy to clean. I find they’re also the best product for seaming; you can’t see the seam readily. As well, blemishes can easily be sanded out because the colour runs right through.”

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A more natural look can be found in wood countertops with 20 to 30 species available at FloForm. “It’s a heritage product that most people like because of the look. We’re finding people who choose wood will use it as an accent or when blending surfaces. Many people will choose wood throughout but use quartz on the island because it’s a better work surface.” Depending on the material and manufacturer’s recommendations, McIntyre suggests people dutifully seal their countertops. “Most materials tend to be porous products and the best way to prevent staining is to seal them. It’s not hard to do; people can do it themselves or can have a professional do it if they’re not sure. Whichever they decide, it’s important that they do seal their countertops.” For some homeowners, achieving a certain look is the deciding factor. “Some people will have already chosen their flooring and wall colours so they’re looking for a specific piece or colour. However, price and maintenance are generally the biggest factors.” McIntyre has been in the countertop business in Regina for more than three decades. Six years ago he joined his company, Custom Countertops, with FloForm. FloForm is a Winnipeg-based company with retail stores and facilities throughout western Canada and the northwest United States. “Our Regina location is booming,” he reports. “We’re doing about ten countertop projects every day and sometimes six days every week. We laser measure all stone product so it’s all cut precisely in our state-of-the-art fabrication shop and ready to install.” For more information, visit www.floform.com. n

Granite, quartz, and corian, marble, wood and laminate. - Photos by Miranda Burski

76 You’re home Summer 2014

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Comfort

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he south of Saskatchewan can be a very pleasant place to enjoy the outdoors – at least most of the time! For those other days, you can escape the weather and the bugs with a three-season outdoor room. Enjoyment of your porch, deck or patio need no longer end with inclement weather or the changing of the seasons. Homeowners can savor better outdoor living with an enclosure that can even be built right onto an existing porch, deck or patio. “Three-season rooms have really taken over (the home improvement market),” said Don Larwood, who along with wife Kelly, own Suncoast Screen Enclosures in Regina. Their company has been building these enhancements for 12 years. “People really enjoy being able to be more comfortable outdoors,” he said. “We had been doing home building and renovations, and people kept asking us about adding screening or windows to their outdoor spaces.” Research led them to Suncoast Enclosures and its head office in Edmonton, Alberta. It was a perfect fit, and the couple has been adding Suncoast outdoor rooms to southern Saskatchewan homes ever since.

78 You’re home Summer 2014

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Homeowners can savor better outdoor living with an enclosure that can even be built right onto an existing porch, deck or patio.

Enclosing a deck with windows or screens is the most common project. “It’s another entire living space,” said Don. The enclosure can be built right on top of an existing deck, and is custom designed and built to fit and match the architecture of each home. Roofed with a polycarbonate or other material, in a style to match the house, the new ‘room’ becomes a part of a family’s overall living space. “You can leave your furniture out and even add a patio heater,” he said. Don and Kelly experimented with a number of different screens to find the strongest and most durable. They now use three different fabrics to provide screening that maintains the view of the outdoors, stops the wind, provides shade and privacy, and of course, keeps those pesky bugs away, a growing concern with the spread of West Nile virus. And the screen retention system they use means there is no separate framework for the screen – it is actually part of the structure itself. This gives the screen a strength not found in any other system and allows for a screen roof that will even hold up to the weight of snow. The Larwoods also point out that homeowners can take their outdoor space even further with the addition of a polycarbonate roof and three-season windows. “Your deck or patio becomes an extra room on your house that can be taken advantage of almost year-round,” Kelly said. The three-season window frames are powder-coated aluminum and the window material is an industrial vinyl called "memory vinyl” that has the appearance and cold prevention of single-pane glass. It can be pushed on, hit with objects, subjected to extreme heat or cold and will return to its original clear window pane status. This system is light-weight compared to glass, allowing Suncoast to construct an outdoor room that otherwise might require significant and costly changes to a foundation. Each opening is custom built into the existing screen wall of a Suncoast Enclosure and has four window panes per opening.

80 You’re home Summer 2014

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and shape of a homeowner’s roof perfectly. Shed style and gable roofs are commonly used as well. Suncoast Enclosures can frame around changes in roof heights, bay windows and fireplaces – in short, everything about the building process is designed to meet the specific needs of customers and their homes. Entrance and exit is made simple with a custom-built Suncoast door that can be incorporated into any of the rooms. Depending on the size, steps or opening of the enclosure, Suncoast will build a single or double swinging door that will look attractive and enhance the space. One of the best features offered by Suncoast Enclosures is the fact that homeowners don’t need to get the full enclosure right away. The company can add windows to an existing Suncoast Enclosure long after the initial installation, with no alterations to the existing structure. “We can do it piece by piece – like a building block,” Don said.

Choosing a builder who belongs to the New Home Warranty Program ensures your new home is protected from problems that can occur with new buildings. you’ll be covered for*: • Your initial deposit up to $25,000 if the builder defaults • Defects in workmanship or materials for the first year • Exterior water penetration for two years • Major structural defects for five years Plus, you can get even more comprehensive coverage with the optional extended coverage for single family homes. To find out more, visit our website, or contact us today. This is not a complete description of coverage. Contact the New Home Warranty Program of Saskatchewan for warranty details.

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And, it’s not just homeowners who can benefit from the addition of a Suncoast Enclosure – the company can also assist commercial operations as well. Screening in the balconies of high-rise apartments and condominiums prevents the nesting of pigeons, giving apartment and condo dwellers clean, and bug-free, balconies. A screen room or louvered roof can also enhance the usability of a restaurant’s outdoor eating area, extending its use and increasing the client base. Any outdoor area can be expanded to three-season use and enhanced by Suncoast Enclosures – helping everyone enjoy more of the great outdoors. For more information, visit www.suncoastenclosures.com. n

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Classic

Contemporary meets

In transitional style kitchens By ashleigh mattern

ltra-modern kitchen styles look amazing on the surface. The streamlined designs and minimalistic colour schemes feel like something from the future. But for many homeowners, a contemporary kitchen isn't something they want in their own home.

aspects, while incorporating the warmth of a traditional style.

“People aren’t always ready to take that step to how stark a new, chic modern kitchen can be,” said Sherry Kraushaar, co-owner of Cougar Custom Cabinets.

“Done right, either modern or totally traditional are beautiful, but this is kind of... a nice middle ground,” said Kraushaar.

Kraushaar says they do a lot of transitional style kitchens. This customer-driven trend stems from homeowners who are looking for a blend of practicality and style, where contemporary meets classic. “It's like it takes the best of both styles,” said Kraushaar. Traditional kitchens have darker, warmer colours, cabinets with carved detail and old-fashioned touches. Contemporary kitchens, on the other hand, are all smooth surfaces and sharp edges, bright colours and surprising touches. Defining the transitional style ends up being a discussion in contradictions: It's not as elaborate as traditional, it's not as futuristic as contemporary. Transitional kitchens feature modern 84 You’re home Summer 2014

In the end, the style is all about achieving balance. A transitional kitchen will incorporate traditional cabinetry with contemporary appliances and flooring, or a modern edginess with a warmer colour palette.

Characteristics include neutral colours, textures, mixed materials, and a few, well-chosen accessories, because less is more with this style, says Kraushaar. Wood, glass, and natural stone are perfect choices for transitional, which favours a neutral palette with splashes of colour. Texture and light play an important role in adding visual interest and warmth. Think a textured backsplash, and layers of light. “Different light can change your room, especially with this style of kitchen,” said Kraushaar. “At night, it can be totally different than during the day.” Kraushaar suggests adding lighting in unexpected places, like inside cabinets and drawers and under the toe kick.

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Transitional kitchens feature modern aspects, while incorporating the warmth of a traditional style.

In fact, the transitional style lends itself well to a sense of playfulness; it gives people a chance to put their own personality into the kitchen. “You can switch it up with different, cool little items, like a chalkboard,” said Kraushaar. “The best thing about the transitional style is that there are no rules. It’s more eclectic. It gives them the ability to express their personality more.” The style is a great choice for renovations because you're able to keep some of the elements, Kraushaar says. The style works well with the open concept trend, blending more comfortably with mixed use spaces. New houses often include open concept kitchen/living spaces, and Kraushaar says in renovating old houses, people are ripping down walls to get the same look. “The transitional kitchen blends better with the rest of the house,” she said. Kraushaar suggests doing your research before moving forward with a design plan. “Look at a lot of pictures, and go to showhomes before you start doing anything,” she said.

Show Suite Now opeN Willow Place is a newly released Mission Style inspired luxury adult condominium project located in popular Southeast Regina at the corner of Willow Road and East Haughton Road. Located within one block of the beautiful Prince of Wales Park, Willow Place is also close to various amenities along Quance Street as well as throughout the booming East end. Willow Place has 2 bedroom and den options. Sizes range from 1063-1434 sq. ft. Suites feature modern open floor plans with 9’ A Joint Gilroy/VArsity Homes ProJect

86 You’re home Summer 2014

ceilings and lots of windows for natural light, granite counter and vanity tops with undermount sinks, maple or oak cabinets with client’s choice of stain, stainless steel appliance package, ensuite bathrooms have 5’ glass enclosed showers. Features of the building include: amenities room, exercise room, heated ground level garage parking and storage, elevator service and wheelchair accessible. For complete information call 306-539-7628.

You might be surprised by what you find: • a bright backsplash that covers an entire wall • cupboards that mimic the detailed traditional style but use more geometric patterns • eye-catching drop lighting fixtures • a monochromatic colour palette warmed up with bright artwork • chairs and stools in a rainbow of colours, like blue, red, orange and green • traditional-style chairs set at a contemporary island • minimalistic chairs set at an island with traditional sensibilities. The end result is unique in every case because transitional is all about personal preferences and choices. The popularity of the style stems from its versatility. It gives you the flexibility to choose your favourite aspects of both contemporary and classic looks, creating an aesthetic that – if not minimalistic – is still current and fresh. n

Living

Lakefront

Prefabrication makes it easy By michele tyndall

ottages of yesteryear used to be one-season retreats, rustic abodes that could only be enjoyed during the lazy days of summer.

Today, Saskatchewan families are seeking yearround enjoyment in four-season vacation properties that bring all of the comforts of home to the province’s most scenic settings – overlooking sparkling lakes, tucked into wooded coves and off the beaten path.

Ulmer says pre-fabricated packages offer many advantages to consumers. Components are constructed in a controlled factory environment, ensuring consistent quality. The pre-fab packages can be shipped to more remote sites for set-up, helpful in controlling costs associated with rural builds. Assembly and construction is straight forward and can be handled by a certified contractor of your choice. All of the pieces are in place to take your cottage from foundation to a finished state. “These packages come with prebuilt walls, roof trusses, gable ends, and even ladders to make the job very simple,” said Ulmer.

For families seeking cottage bliss, pre-fabricated packages are becoming an increasingly popular choice, said Garnell Ulmer, senior sales agent with Nu-Fab Building Products.

Winner of the 2013 rrhBA MAster AWArd for BAthrooM renovAtion of the YeAr!

homesolutions Home Solutions is your complete renovations team! Owned and operated by Darren Bezborotko, Home Solutions is Regina’s only renovation company that has received two Regina Home Builders Association Masters Awards – 2011 Kitchen Renovation of the Year and 2013 Bathroom Renovation of the Year. Home Solutions does complete basement development, bathrooms, kitchens, painting and full additions. For the best quality renovations - done by a super nice guy and his team call Darren Bezborotko today.

Darren Bezborotko – 306-539-2459

www.homesolutionsregina.com

Living in the country so close to the city has a serenity about it that families would enjoy.

Trust

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Emerald Park Homes’ proven results

Darlene Gosling recently built her new home with Emerald Park Homes. According to Gosling, it was important to work with a homebuilder who offered the flexibility to customize one of their plans to suit her budget and lifestyle. It is this type of customer service that sets Emerald Park Homes apart from other builders. Whether it was location or design options, Gosling relied on their experience and expertise to help her make choices for her new home in the country. It was this freedom to choose key components of her home that made building with Emerald Park Homes a positive experience for Gosling. “The location had the biggest impact on me,” said Gosling. “I drove by this lot that had a few trees and thought this is going to be [the location of] my new home. I soon realized that it had to be a country setting (privacy, sunsets, trees, beautiful landscaping) as you can take the girl out of the country, but not the country out of the girl. Living in the country so close to the city has a serenity about it that families would enjoy. My lot has many trees, a water feature, wild prairie grass, vivid sunrises and sunsets, living skies and the sound of birds and frogs.”

Now is the time to build new

“My new home is a reflection of who I am,” said Gosling. “I wanted it to be unique and resemble myself. Both Garry and Lorena [Sawchyn] provided solutions that helped make my home a reality. If I had to do it again, Emerald Park Homes would be my first choice.”

Build it right the first time

Park Homes will ensure that high quality standards in building material and construction are met, while details of design and decorating are left to their customers. “From the quality of workmanship and conversations [regarding] both custom home building and everyday conversation, it was a combination that I knew I could trust and depend on when the decision to build was finally made,” said Gosling. It is these personal touches and the high quality of work that allow homeowners to enjoy their new home building experience to the fullest. For years to come, Gosling will feel great every time she pulls into her driveway.

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With pre-fabricated packages, it's easy to attain your dream of owning a lakeside cottage.

With locations in Saskatoon and Regina, Nu-Fab Building Products offers 16 different cottage packages, ranging in size from 576 to 1,619 square feet. All the basics are included, such as drywall and shingles, exterior finish, windows and doors, leaving you free to make the more creative choices, such as paint colours, wood types and final touches. Before deciding on the Adirondack chairs or the wicker porch swing, it’s important to know what the best options and fundamental needs for your cottage are going to be. “Have a good foundation before you start. Typically a crawl space is the norm with the cottage on top of that. Have the foundation made from concrete if possible or a wood foundation where allowed. This way the foundation is all closed in around the perimeter for insulating and protection down the road. Build this cottage for the future and don’t skimp on things,” said Ulmer. Recognize all the aspects of your potential new cottage life and budget accordingly. What options are available at your cottage site for utilities, including heat, power and water? Interested in living off-grid at your cottage? You may want to explore new options in solar technologies. “Don’t be in a rush to get the project going; this is a major investment, so take time to think it through as this will end up being so much more than just a cottage in the end,” said Ulmer. With careful planning and a list of specific requirements, a pre-fab cottage can become a year-round dream home that provides an escape from urban life, a greener lifestyle choice, and a unique showcase for your personal creativity. For more information, visit www.nufab.com. n

Building Dreams One Home at a Time

Wayne White 306.779.3000

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RRHBA

Welcoming

PekarBilt Homes & Commercial ltd. By jessica mees

he founders of PekarBilt Homes and Commercial Ltd. are proud of their roots. Being raised in rural Saskatchewan and growing up in Regina and area have instilled a sense of prairie practicality and ingenuity that guides PekarBilt’s business operations. With the owners having a combined experience of over 35 years in the construction industry, customers can rely on their expert guidance. Loving what they do and going to work with eager smiles on their faces, President Randy Pekar, Vice-President Larry Lolacher and Sales and Operations Manager Dale Metcalf are quite the team. Prior to PekarBilt, Metcalf was a past chair of the Regina & Region Home Builders’ Association (RRHBA). This made PekarBilt’s decision to become a member a no-brainer. “The members of the main management group at PekarBilt all have past experience through other companies with the Home Builders’ Association. We do really see the value in its membership,” said Metcalf. “Personally I had a vested interest in the Regina & Region Home Builders’ Association for over 12 years, serving on the board. I served two years as a vice-chair, two years as a chair and one year as a past-chair.” As for the values the Association brings to PekarBilt, management sees advantages in using the RRHBA website for marketing their product. They also recognize that the RRHBA logo itself brings many customers in. “I think when people see the logo, they associate that with trust,” Metcalf confirmed. Giving the customer exactly what they want has always been the end goal for PekarBilt management. Clients building entry level homes, multi-million dollar dream homes or commercial buildings are all given outstanding service and attention. This team wants their finished products to make clients beam from ear to ear. 92 You’re home Summer 2014

Being raised in rural Saskatchewan and growing up in Regina and area have instilled a sense of prairie practicality and ingenuity that guides PekarBilt’s business operations.

Thank You Masterbrand Cabinets, North Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Largest Cabinet Corporation selected Regina and its team of associates as KitchenCraft Full Service Store of the year. I would like to thank our designers, operations, office and field services personnel for their hard work in designing and installing over 700 kitchen and cabinet projects in 2013. A big thank as well to our suppliers, builders and customers who we work with every day. You are our purpose and motivation to create beautiful cabinetry and happy homeowners. We look forward to serving the Regina and surrounding area for many years to come.

Angus Smith, Manager

1434 Broad ST. Regina, SK S4R 1Y9 Store Hours: Mon to Fri 9 am - 5 pm Sat 10 am - 3 pm

Clients building entry level homes, multi-million dollar dream homes or commercial buildings are all given outstanding service and attention.

“As a new company, we’ve brought a lot of past experiences in regards to customer service with us. We have purposely built our staff with a lot of reputable people that treat a customer with a lot of respect,” he said. “Our staff values the importance of customer service. They realize that it’s not advertising… it’s actually showing that client that after purchase they do have someone they can rely on to come out and take a look at any problem no matter how big or small.” Of course, no projects would be complete without the skilled team members behind the management. With a large staff, with diverse backgrounds, PekarBilt is able to assure each and every customer is taken care of, with no questions left unanswered. A widely diverse company, PekarBilt builds everything from single family homes to many styles of condominium developments. “What really sets us aside on the condo side is that we’re integrating some new innovative designs into the market,” he said. “You’re going to see streetscapes on our properties; Reginans are going to see things that they haven’t seen for a very long time in this market.” Metcalf notes that condos are becoming increasingly popular in Regina, because of their affordability. “If you’re building a house, prices can range anywhere from $350,000 to $900,000 depending, but with the price of land and development and construction, new homes have edged up to a price where they aren’t as affordable,” he said. “In doing a condominium or a multi-family unit, you’re able to bring those costs down to under $300,000 per unit. This opens up a whole new market of people who can now afford a mortgage or a condominium which can get them some equity so they can eventually move on to that new home.”

Phone: (306) 352-6617 | Toll Free: 1-877-352-6617

www.robinsonplans.com

94 You’re home Summer 2014

Current multi-unit projects that PekarBilt is bringing to the Regina market include Bordeaux two-storey townhomes in Hawkstone and the visually stunning apartment-style condominium development called Gateway in The Greens. For more details, visit www.pekarbilt.com. n

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Q. What should I look for in a floor plan? A. Consider the way you use your current home. What is working

well? What are you missing? Compare that to the floor plans you look at. Showhomes are great opportunities to test out the plan and really get a visual for how the space looks. Also keep in mind what you will be bringing with you when you move into your new home. Think about how much storage you may need in the kitchen as well as in closets. What kind of furniture are you moving with you? Whether you’re down-sizing or looking for a larger home, you may need to purchase new furniture. Consider how the home will function for different family structures. Living alone usually requires a much different floor plan than a young family dwelling. Some home builders will allow you to customize your floor plan.

Q. What kind of details do you usually overlook during a new home build? A. Generally you’ll be more focused on the aesthetics rather than

the functionality of the interior. Think of the function of each room and where certain components should go. You’ll need to choose the right walls for where the TV, fireplace, and furniture will be placed so that the room will be functional. Things that you may overlook are light fixtures, light switches and plug-in placement. Consider how you will be placing furniture in the space and how built-in components should relate to that. For example: you will probably want a plug-in on either side of the bed in the master bedroom, or have the dining room light fixture centered over where you will place the table.

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Q. What happens after I’ve purchased a new build? A. After purchasing the lot and plan, begin the process of choosing

the finishes. Determine the look of your new home; start with some research through showhomes, design magazines and pay attention to the way you already decorate your home. Determine what kind of finishes will work best for you and your lifestyle. Do you have a family? Pets? What is your budget? For example: a young active family might want to look for easy to care for and resilient

finishes like laminate flooring and quartz countertops. If you’re not sure what works best for you, be sure to ask the professionals! Salespeople and designers will give you plenty of information on the products you are looking at and may make suggestions as to what will work for you.

Q. What kind of finishes are included in my new home? A. Every home builder is a little different when it comes to the

finishes for your new home. Typically there is a basic package for all the finishes including cabinets, countertops, flooring, the number of paint colours, lighting and plumbing fixtures. These products and finishes are called standard finishes, while the ones that aren’t included are called upgrades. Upgrades can throw off your budget, so find out what is offered and compare that to the product you desire. While visiting showhomes for your research, be aware that some finishes may be upgrades. Granite countertops, millwork, high end cabinets and stain finishes, and flooring can all be upgrades. If you are unsure, always check with the home builder.

Bar-T Construction is a family-run business that has been serving Regina and Southern Saskatchewan since 1983. At Bar-T Construction we understand that building a new house or doing a renovation can be a stressful time, so our knowledgeable staff will help you through the process of choosing the right exterior package for you. Please visit our showroom at 1150 Park Street and let us help you, whether you are looking to update your curb appeal or make your home more energy efficient. We are the exterior people.

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Q. I’m overwhelmed! How do I make all these decisions? A. Choosing all the finishes for a new home can be very

overwhelming! The research you did to determine the look of your home at the beginning of the building process will help you a lot. You’ll notice from your research that it is not necessary to match the exterior to the interior, nor is it necessary to match all your finish choices. You can play with mixing and matching metals, and blending different wood species. What pulls it all together is colour and texture from countertops, paint, and furnishings. The true personality of your home will come out with your own furnishings and accents. Design professionals can help guide you in your decision making as well. Let your designer know what kind of look you desire and they will help you with the process. Building a home is quite possibly the single largest investment of time, money, and energy that you will ever spend… but with your efforts, dreams do come true. n

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New Condominium Living The number of new condominium projects in Saskatchewan has skyrocketed in the last number of years. While many folks understand that their new home comes with required monthly “condo fees” and certain rules, not everyone appreciates the legal implications of owning condominium units.

Q. What is a condominium corporation? A. A condo corporation is an entity registered in Saskatchewan

whose members are the owners of condominium units. The members (condo owners) elect a board of directors which oversees management of the property, or decides to contract that management out to a third party. The condo corporation also ensures enforcement of the bylaws.

Making sense of real estate law

Q. What are the bylaws? A. The bylaws are the rules and obligations, subject to change, which form the constitution of the condominium corporation. If you are buying a new condominium from a developer, the developer is required to give you a copy of the bylaws (or proposed bylaws) prior to your purchase. If the condominium corporation has already been constituted, you will get a copy of the bylaws already in effect. The length of the bylaws can vary dramatically depending on the size and type of condominium unit you’re buying. It is important to realize that unlike a bungalow in the suburbs, you are bound by bylaws created by the board of directors. Just like how you can’t ignore the traffic laws or taxes you don’t like, you can’t ignore the bylaws and associated condo fees. Q. What happens if I don’t pay my fees? A. The corporation will likely charge you interest on money owed

Buying. Selling. Contracts. Transactions. The ins and outs of real estate law are detailed and many. Legal expertise, knowledge of the region and a genuine approach to doing business are what you need to simplify the process. At Miller Thomson, our goal is to be your only source when it comes to your legal real estate matters. Our lawyers in Regina—with access to a national network of ten offices across the country—can offer you the solutions, both large and small, that your home building business needs. Contact us to learn more: Miller Thomson Regina regina@millerthomson.com 306. 347.8300

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to the condo corporation. If you still refuse to pay, your new home may end up with a lien for arrears on it. Basically, the title of your property will have an interest registered against it (just like if you don’t pay taxes to the government). That lien for arrears will likely make the bank unhappy if you have a mortgage, and will make it very difficult to borrow against or sell the property. The condo corporation will add to the outstanding amount the costs of both registering and removing the lien. If you still refuse to pay, maybe the fee is for some silly project and you’re refusing on principle, then the corporation is able to realize on the lien in the same manner as a mortgage (seeking court approval to sell your home to pay the outstanding lien). This would be very unusual, but is a possibility under The Condominium Property Act, 1993. The moral of the story: it’s best not to get behind on condo fees! A new condominium is a great option for many people. The important thing to remember when buying into the project is that you are bound to your neighbours and the condo corporation in a manner similar to having another level of government. n

Miller Thomson LLP

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Cool finishes are the new stainless By ashleigh mattern

omeowners who want to make a statement with their kitchen appliances have more options than ever before.

Stainless steel still dominates the market, but the growing popularity of hidden appliances, and custom powder coating – available in every imaginable colour – point to a shift in taste. “There is a movement away from your complete stainless,” said Len Willer, Continental Factory Direct store manager. “There are some upkeep issues; sometimes it requires a little bit more maintenance.” New options to hit store floors this year include mirrored glass finishes from Whirlpool, a floating glass finish from JennAir, and the slate coloured finish from GE. These appliances are sleek, with clean lines and crisp colours, all featuring stainless steel accents, so they match existing stainless pieces. Neil Will, Continental Factory Direct appliance sales manager, says he has seen a few houses where they've purchased Whirlpool's “white ice” package, but kept their stainless steel vent hood or dishwasher. “It matches quite beautifully,” he said. “You don't have to replace all of your appliances at once.” Whirlpool is also rolling out a “black ice” finish. The stainless accents especially stand out against the deep black, creating a stunning contrast. A similar look comes from Jenn-Air – their floating glass finishes in both black and white feature a tinted glass panel layered over the face of the appliance, giving a deeper look to the colour. The glass panel also makes it easy to clean. 102 You’re home Summer 2014

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SUSTAINABILITY – Independent studies prove that when it comes to environmental performance, natural

wood is superior to synthetics products in every way. While other building materials generate greenhouse gasses, western red cedar actually removes greenhouse gasses from the atmosphere. And unlike brick, cement and composites, Real Cedar is renewable and biodegradable. Plus, Real Cedar is sourced from the most sustainably managed forests in the world.

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“It’s quite a beautiful finish,” said Will. Will says with high gloss appliances like the white ice finish, the challenge is finding other whites that match; because white ice is so brilliant, the wrong shade next to it can end up looking yellow. It's best to go with a contrasting colour like grey, or warm natural colours. The slate finish from GE is also a contender to take the place of stainless. The grey colour is reminiscent of stainless, but much less clinical. Chris Bissig, GE manager of concept and brand development, says they designed the colour specifically to work well with the warm colours and natural materials popular in kitchens today.

Stainless steel still dominates the market, but the growing popularity of hidden appliances, and custom powder coating – available in every imaginable colour – point to a shift in taste.

“We really designed slate to be very versatile and work in a variety of kitchen environments,” he said. The colour works well with the dark maples to medium range oaks and walnuts that you'll find in cabinetry and hardwood floors, but Bissig says its neutral quality is what makes it fit in a variety of kitchens. No matter which look you prefer, all of these finishes have a high level of polish. “Contemporary design calls for smooth finishes; there's not a lot of texture coming out on the market right now,” said Will. “Twenty years ago, white textured appliances and black textured were more common. Right now, smooth is definitely in – sleek, shiny finishes!” Although he admires the glossy glass finishes, Will is still partial to stainless. Stainless steel is the most long lasting, as it can be repaired if scratched, and he notes that both GE and Frigidaire are offering a smudge-proof stainless. The best way to decide which finish to choose is to give some thought to your current surroundings, said Will. “The things around it will help make that decision easier. Your flooring, cabinets – if you fall in love with a single piece in your kitchen, it will help you make the rest of the decisions more easily.”

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Your Kitchen Reno What to expect?

By tom eremondi

eciding to tear down your worn-out kitchen cabinets and strip off that tired old countertop may seem like an easy decision.

What happens afterward is the hard part. That’s why many people turn to the experts, says Angus Smith of Regina’s Kitchen Craft Cabinetry. “Kitchen Craft is a national company with a large manufacturing facility in Winnipeg, 10 corporate stores across Canada and hundreds of independent dealers,” said Smith. “The Winnipeg plant makes about 130 kitchens every day and supplies about 35 per cent of the kitchen cabinet market in Canada. In other words, they know kitchens and cabinets.” With an extensive showroom at 1434 Broad Street, the Regina Kitchen Craft location offers everything from design to service and installation. What should homeowners consider first when planning a kitchen renovation? Smith says good quality design should be first and foremost. “Kitchen Craft designers know which products they can 106 You’re home Summer 2014

take out of our catalogue, which has about 1,800 components in it, and how to tweak them to our customers’ special needs.” That large of a selection may seem daunting at first but Smith provides reassurance to homeowners. “Our designers will work with customers to get a sense of their style, taste and, most important, how they’re using their kitchen. For example, couples with young families will use their kitchen differently than baby boomers.” Budget is another important consideration. “Through several meetings and interviews with customers, our designers will get to understand the needs and limitations of customers while also explaining what Kitchen Craft is capable of doing,” said Smith. The consultation process is helpful and educational for both the homeowner and the kitchen designer, he adds. “Quite often, the homeowners will have some initial thoughts of what they want, based on things they’ve seen or from their first looks at our catalogues. Sitting down with our designers will help them realize what will work best for them and we find many change their minds from when they first came in.”

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- Photos by Shawn Fulton A growing number of homeowners come into the design consultation having done extensive research, with clippings and Internet searches in hand. The Kitchen Craft designer works with these studious consumers to track down the products that suit their needs. Depending on how quickly homeowners make their decisions, the kitchen designer proceeds with measurements, followed by detailed drawings and plans. Once these plans are approved, the components are ordered. The next crucial step is installation. Smith says Kitchen Craft will call the homeowners to ensure they’re ready for the work to begin.

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“Customers may want to paint, redo plumbing or change layouts by removing walls before we install new cabinets so we make sure they’re ready to go.” On average, about two weeks after the kitchen cabinets have arrived in Regina, the Kitchen Craft installers will arrive at the customers’ home. “An installation will take three to four days,” Smith explained. “We caution customers that it will be a busy time. They won’t have a kitchen, sink, stove or fridge for that time so we make sure they have other options prepared for cooking and eating.” Once the cabinets are in and after the flooring has been installed, Kitchen Craft will do a final inspection. “We’ll look for any deficiencies and note them. We’ll also do the toe kick trim, which takes the cabinet down to the floor. If there are any repairs or parts that need to be replaced, we’ll order them from the Winnipeg plant and install them when they arrive.”

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In total, Smith says the time period from cabinet installation to final approval should take about 30 days. “The Regina store has 12 installers working throughout south Saskatchewan so we respond to job orders as timely as possible. We have a really modern approach and track all jobs. We pay attention to details, taking note if a project is delayed or taking too long,” he adds. “That’s a touch that customers really appreciate.” All Kitchen Craft products have a limited lifetime warranty, Smith notes. “It applies for as long as you own your house and covers any manufacturing defects.” He offers that the business, in addition to being a member of the Regina & Region Home Builders’ Association, is also a member of the National Kitchen and Bath Association. You can visit the Regina Kitchen Craft store at 1434 Broad Street or view their website at www.KitchenCraft.com. n

108 You’re home Summer 2014

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Master

The evolution of the

bath

By wendy livingstone

he master bathroom or ensuite: in the past, it was often nothing more than a small nook accessible from the master bedroom. With a vanity, toilet and perhaps a shower, it offered, at most, a slight measure of privacy from the rest of the household. But recent years have seen a re-creation of the humble ensuite as it has been transformed into a spacious, luxurious haven that rivals many commercial spas. “A lot of it is just to do with the fact that we’ve got stressful lives – people want their own personal retreat or their own spa to relax and unwind after their busy days. Ensuites are becoming sanctuaries,” said Curt Keil, general manager of Pacesetter Homes. He said much can be done to create the aesthetics, comfort and convenience of a personal spa within one’s home. Electric towel racks, once the ultimate in bathroom luxury, have been upstaged by towelwarming drawers, heated floors and walls, and products that promise a “toasty tush.” “Everybody wants warmth, and I think that’s a trend in society in general,” said Keil. “If you look at the trend in cars, it started with car seat warmers, and now you have steering wheel warmers. You see the same type of trends with homes, where you get your feet warm, and now even the toilet seat can be warmed.” Gas fireplaces have also found their way into the ensuite, contributing to the warm, cozy, spa-like atmosphere that’s being sought by homeowners. Keil said that the radiant heat emitted from heated walls and floors creates more of a sauna or steam room effect than can be attained through the home’s forced air heating system. Today’s technology has largely eliminated some of the concerns that warm, humid rooms once caused. “We can do more things like steam rooms and different types of heating because we can better moderate the humidity. We used to be restricted in what we could do because when you get such a moist, humid room, that can typically create mould. But, because we have heat recovery ventilators or air exchangers, we can suck that out a lot quicker, reducing the risk of any long-term mould issues.” Modern technology has also abated problems often associated with the installation of windows in bathrooms. Triple-pane, tightly sealed, energyefficient windows make it possible to allow in more natural light and appreciate the view of a great backyard while relaxing and unwinding.

110 You’re home Summer 2014

Recent years have seen a re-creation of the humble master bath as it has been transformed into a spacious, luxurious haven that rivals many commercial spas. The spray of water from a shower head has long served as a refreshing way to start the morning and has provided a wonderful source of relaxation at the end of a long day. The ordinary shower has now been transformed for the new ensuite, with the over-sized, walk-in shower almost a necessity. “The shower is becoming so much more luxurious with so many multiple body spray options. Some can be pre-programmed for each person’s preference for such things as temperature and spray velocity,” said Keil. Audio systems, TVs (some of which are built right into mirrors) and special lighting enhance the pleasures of sight and sound in the modern ensuite. “A general trend that fits right in is the audio visual component – having a TV or speakers with iPods connected,” said Keil. For those who feel that some chromotherapy (a.k.a. colour therapy) will add to the healing power of water, tubs and showers with special lighting can be installed. “That’s a growing trend that comes from the spa world. If it’s a jetted or a big soaker tub, the lighting of the water can be done from below or from above,” said Keil. He added that dimmer switches are a popular way to attain relaxing light levels in one’s personal retreat. “It’s not to say people don’t use candles quite a bit, but many are going to dimmer lighting instead of using candles.” But where does one place those candles and the beverage (that is perhaps enjoyed during a peaceful soak) and keep them dry? “There are tub tables, similar to what you would pull out when you are on an airplane,” said Keil. “You can pull it out beside the tub for a safer environment to put some technology on, be it a phone or a TV remote. It’s a dry space within arm's reach for a cell phone, magazine, candle or glass of merlot.” On a more practical level, many homeowners are having grab bars installed in their bathrooms, regardless of whether they have the physical need to use one. Part of the reason for this is that grab bars

are now intended to be attractive. “They really are designed to be an add-on to that bathroom, versus a detriment. The design, the colours – they can match the styles of the faucet or the style of the sinks and they can bring the whole bathroom together. There are a lot more options,” said Keil. Not all of the benefits of including a large ensuite in a new home design will be realized immediately. When it is time to sell the property, a beautiful spa sanctuary could add significantly to the value of the home. “Larger and larger portions of new homes’ construction budgets are being earmarked for creating a luxurious ensuite, but from a resale or investment standpoint, they always say to put your money in your kitchens and bathrooms,” said Keil. “It’s like your dream kitchen. Nowadays, a spectacular ensuite or bathroom could make the difference between someone buying and not buying a property.” n

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You’re home Summer 2014 111

RRHBA Member Directory 1 Stop Vacuum Centres aaa spray foam Access Communications adjile Advance Door Systems ltd. AECOM affinity credit union Alford Floors & Interiors (1967) Ltd. All Weather Windows Allman Homes & Realty Ltd. AmeriSpec Home Inspection Service Ardel Steel Armada Construction Corporation Arrow Plumbing & Heating artisan design build ltd. ASL Paving Ltd. Aspen Granite Aspen Homes Ltd.

Canadian Home Builders’ Association Canridge Roofing canyon creek estates CAP Masonry Capital Ford Lincoln - commercial & fleet caveman stone products inc. Century West Homes Ltd. CertaPro Painters chba - saskatchewan Chippers Contracting Ltd. CIBC Mortgage & Lending Cindercrete Products Ltd. City of Regina clark's custom creations Classic Canadian Homes Ltd. clear view windows and doors clutter x organizing systems CNG Stone Products Ltd.

distinct homes inc.

Home Solutions

Dream Development

homes by deveraux

durabuilt windows & doors

Homes by Dream

eastern alliance development

house envy interiors

easy wall & ceiling

Huntwood Custom Cabinets Ltd.

edge rock concrete inc.

HYBRID Construction

Edward Jones Investments

Hydeman Property Management Ltd.

Emerald Park Homes Ltd. enercon products - A beacon roofing supply company EnviroFoam Insulation Regina Evans Development Group Inc.

Information Services Corporation of Saskatchewan Ingrid Ruud Decor8… ing consultant

Evolution Insulation Inc.

Inland Concrete Div of Lehigh Hanson

executive royal hotel regina

Inland Metal Mfg. (1994) Ltd.

exit realty fusion expocrete an oldcastle company

Innovation Renovation & Roofing Inc.

Exterior Finishers Direct Inc.

I-XL Masonry Supplies Ltd.

f.y. construction inc.

J & C Custom Cabinets Ltd.

Fanny’s Furniture & Kitchens

janson homes & realty

Federated Insurance

jay's moving and storage ltd.

Fenk Construction Ltd.

JELD-WEN Windows and Doors

Fiorante Homes and Commercial Ltd.

JGN Kitchens & bath

Cold Busters Insulation Services condominium institute

Fix Building Products

jlb electric ltd.

CONEXUS Credit Union

Floform Countertops

K.M. Burgess Agencies Ltd.

Bank of Montreal

Continental Factory Direct

Floors By Design Ltd.

Kanuka Thuringer LLP

Bar T Construction & Pre-Stainer Ltd.

Convoy Supply Ltd.

FM Residential Designs & Consulting Inc.

Karina Developments Ltd.

Associated Engineering Ltd. Association of Regina REALTORS Inc. Audio Warehouse Authentic Developments Inc. automated av/shield integration ltd.

Bath Fitter Regina Baywest Projects sask Inc. Best Price Railing Ltd. Better Business Bureau of Sask. Inc. Biofoam Spray Foam Insulation & Coatings

Coast Wholesale Appliances inc. cobb & company cabinets inc.

Cornerstone Masons Ltd. cougar custom cabinets Crawford Homes (1991) Ltd. Creative Door Services Ltd. Creative Kitchens Ltd. Crown Appraisals - Randy Toth Crown Shred & Recycling Inc.

Focus Corporation Fries Tallman Lumber (1976) Ltd. frontier masonry ltd. G.R. Distributors Inc.

JIC Windows & Doors

Kaycan Ltd. KC Renovation Warehouse Ltd. Kelturn Drywall Ltd. Kenroc Building Materials Co. Ltd. Kim Shaheen Financial Inc.

galon insurance brokers

Kitchen & Bath Classics Klean King Vac Ltd.

Kitchen Craft Cabinetry

Brandt Tractor Ltd.

Culligan Water Conditioning

Gang Nail Trusses & Building Components

Budget Blinds

Cypress Homes Ltd.

Gellner Homes Ltd.

KMP Law

budget car & truck rental

D & S Homes Ltd.

Gentek building products ltd.

kpmg llp

Builders’ Plumbing and Heating

Dakine Home Builders Inc. Daytona Homes Regina Ltd.

GES Global Experience Specialists

Kratz Homes Ltd.

Canada Mortgage & Housing Corporation

Gilroy Homes Inc.

canadian custom flooring

decora homes ltd. Deiana General Construction Ltd.

Glacier Glass Service Ltd.

Delta Regina

Golden West Radio ( 800 CHAB/COUNTRY 100/mix 103) grasshopper construction

Leaders in Open Space Site Development Proud member of the regina & region home builders’ association

With over 50 years of experience and growth, Wilco Southwest has become one of Canada’s premier landscape contractors. 112 You’re home Summer 2014

Habitat for Humanity Regina Halcyon Spas Harmony Builders Ltd.

kraus canada inc. Krazy Kiley’s krn residential design ltd. Lafarge North America Larry’s Sheet Metal Leader Post - Div of Postmedia Network INC. Lennox Ind. (Canada) Ltd.

Harris Rebar

Lifestyle Cabinetry/Cabinet Outlet Inc.

Harvard Developments Inc.

Loraas Disposal Services Ltd.

harvard western insurance

Lowe’s Canada

haztech fire and safety services inc.

MacPherson Leslie & Tyerman LLP

henderson insurance inc.

McKercher LLP merit contractors association

RRHBA Member Directory metro regina

primary engineering and construction

microage regina

Prime Fasteners

Midwest Surveys Inc.

Professional Plumbing & Heating Inc.

Mikron Homes & Construction Ltd. Miller Thomson LLP

sears commercial Security Building Supplies SecurTek - a sasktel company sgi canada shademaker blinds

the mortgage centre - design mortgages the shake shop cedar warehouse Thomas Sand & Gravel Timberstone Distribution Regina

Mintz & Wallace C.A.’s

Progressive Home Warranty Solutions Inc.

Monarch Homes (1970) Ltd.

PV Disposal

Shaver’s Sash & Door Ltd.

Munro Homes Ltd.

quantum construction inc.

Sherwood Co-op Home Centre

Myrah Appraisals

queen city custom construction inc.

Shoemaker Drywall Supplies

Travelodge Hotel & Conference Centre

N.I.S. Contractors Ltd.

Queen City Glass (1961) Ltd.

Sierra Construction Ltd.

Trithart Homes ltd.

National Home Warranty Group Inc.

R.N.G. sales ltd.

Sign A Rama - Regina

Truss T. Mfg. Ltd.

New Home Warranty Program of Saskatchewan

RBC Royal Bank

simply stowed custom closets

tth law firm

regal homes inc.

SK Environmental Industry & Managers Association

Ultimate Insulation foam & fire inc.

nexus construction ltd.

Shatkowski Homes

Nimbus Water Shop

Regina & District Chamber of Commerce

North Prairie Developments Ltd.

Regina Construction Association

South Country Equipment Ltd.

North Ridge Development Corporation

Regina Regional Opportunities Commission

southland roofing inc.

Northern Fireplace Ltd.

Regina Soffit & Eaves Ltd.

Northern Tar & Tile Ltd.

Regina Window & Exteriors

Spraywest Inc.

Northern Tropic Solariums Nu-Fab Building Products

Reimer Custom Homes & commercial Inc.

Oak Park living

Renewed Kitchens

Olive Waller Zinkhan & Waller LLP

Richardson Lighting

Olympic Paving Stone Inc.

Rick’s Custom Cabinets & Renovations Ltd

on av inc.

Ripplinger Homes

Operation Dirt (2006) Inc.

Robinson Residential Design Inc.

optimum roofing inc.

Rona Home & Garden

Overhead Door Co. of regina (1973) ltd.

safe building solutions Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce

Pacesetter New Homes Ltd. Palandri Cabinets Paramount Plantscapes Ltd. Parkland Carpet One pebble tree developments pekarbilt homes & commercial ltd. Ply Gem Canada Inc. posh patio deck covers inc. Power House Electric Ltd.

spring green homes ltd. Stantec Consulting Ltd. Steel Craft Door Sales & Services Ltd. Sterling Plg, Htg & A/C Ltd. Sthamann Homes Inc. Sun Life Financial sun west construction ltd. suncoast screen enclosures Sunset Bay Leisure superblinds & draperies of regina Superior Cabinets

Saskatchewan Construction Safety Association

superior fd coatings ltd.

Saskatchewan Housing Corporation

Terra Developments Inc.

saskatchewan ready mixed concrete Association

the bevelled edge countertops

SaskEnergy

Phantom Screens

Spray Guard Air Tight Solutions Inc.

sundog developments ltd.

roofmart prairies ltd.

P.B. Custom Cabinets Renovations & Millworks

SlabMaster Ltd.

TD Canada Trust

Town & Country Plumbing & Heating (2004) Trademark Homes Inc.

United Drywall Ltd. Usonia Homes Inc. utopia designs Varsity Homes Ltd. W.F. Botkin Constr. Ltd. Ready Mix Div. Wappel Construction Ltd. westcan mechanical sales ltd. westridge cabinets Westridge Homes Ltd. WestSource Wheatland Fireplace Wheatland Roofing Inc. Wilco Contractors Southwest Inc. windfield construction ltd. Wood Country wsp canada inc. Yagar Developments Inc. youngs insulation services inc. zarkor construction ltd. Bold listings indicate members advertising in this issue

The Brick

SaskPower

the ensuite - a division of emco corporation

SaskTel

the floor show (regina) ltd.

Scotia McLeod - Prairieview Wealth Management

The Lung Association of Saskatchewan

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CommerCial and residential Wiring You’re home Summer 2014 113

closing remarks

By Stu Niebergall, President & CEO Regina & Region Home Builders’ Association

Why do we want to buy a home?

ur reasons for wanting to buy a home certainly vary. Sometimes I hear people say that it is because it’s expected, “Because that's what people do,” or “It seems like it's about time I did.” For others, it is because they are getting married and starting a family. Some know exactly what they want to achieve and the lifestyle they want to create and homeownership is a part of that. And, there are those who want to take the step from renter to owner.

amount of the home you actually own, grows. Your home is likely appreciating while you own it, but the amount of your mortgage remains the same. This works like a giant piggy bank – the money you accumulate in the home continues to increase, acting as a sort of high-interest savings account.

For starters, one must understand that a home is certainly a good financial investment, and most likely, the home you buy will appreciate. Even an annual rise that keeps pace with inflation is a savings for you.

You are also likely to be able to purchase more square footage for your money in your own home than in a rental apartment. And if you are a larger family, owning a home may be your only viable housing option.

The question of whether home ownership is a good investment has always been debated. Like any investment, if you look at it only in the short term, it demands that you get your timing of the market just right. However, over the longer investment horizon with your home purchase you do build equity – the amount you outright own in your home.

To many people, a home means owning a bit of the good earth. Land buys distance from your neighbour – something that is hard to come by in apartment living. Land also brings the opportunity for gardening and growing your own vegetables. And usually, there is room for the kids to play.

If you can command even a little more money from the property you are selling than the amount you paid for it, you can use your equity in that home to buy a more upscale home than you were able to afford the first time. Gradually over the years, with buying and selling, you can build quite a nice investment for yourself. For many, that sizable amount of equity will contribute in a major way to a financially comfortable retirement. Of course, many people buy a home intending to stay in it for a very long time. But even if you are not planning to sell your home in the foreseeable future, the appreciation of your home still makes your purchase a worthwhile investment. Leverage is one of the greatest benefits of housing as an investment. We tend to think of debt as bad and paying for things with cash as good. Yet, with our current mortgage system, we have the ability to invest a small amount of our own money to make one of the largest purchases we will ever make. You gain leverage when you use borrowed money as a means to purchase your home. As a result, a small percentage of appreciation in home value can mean a large return on the cash you actually put into the purchase. Owning your own home can be a great way to save money. As you pay off your mortgage each month, you are gradually reducing the principal amount of your loan, while your equity, or the 114 You’re home Summer 2014

Can you say the same about rent? Of course not. Rent usually goes up and up and up, especially when you look at a long-term leasing period that covers the next 20 or 30 years.

What role does security play in the home buying decision? To some homeowners, it means personal safety, like being in a neighborhood with low crime rates and good lighting on the streets. Perhaps living on a street with little traffic is important, an area where neighborhood kids can play safely in and around their homes. To others, the safe neighborhood represents security for their hardearned investment dollars. They are certain that having chosen a home in a stable neighbourhood will mean long term security. Many homebuyers feel pride of ownership once they have purchased a home. As homeowners, we see our homes as extensions of ourselves and are pleased that our efforts in life can result in owning our own place. This is especially true when purchasing a newly built home. There is nothing like the feeling that comes with owning a brand new home, which is truly an extension of yourself as you can put your own personal stamp on everything from your home design to paint colour. In addition, newly-built homes tend to keep their re-sale value, and, because everything is brand new and built with the latest in maintenance-free products, you will have lower operating costs, as there are no ongoing repairs. And, if you purchase a new home in a brand new neighbourhood, this adds to your safety and security in protecting both your investment and your family. To learn more, visit www.reginahomebuilders.com. n

5736 Pearsall Cres. - Upper Level

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Melissa McCullough

306.533.8763

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Doug Elworthy

306.351.2333

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Logan Janzen

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306.531.5056

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5736 Pearsall Cres. - Basement Suite

PaRtiCiPating BuildERs:

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You’re home summer 2014 The official magazine of the Regina & Region Home Builders’ Association

S H O W H O M E S O N M I T C H I N S O N WAY S H O W H O M E H O U R S : M O N - T H U R S 7 - 9 P M W E E K E N D S & H O L I D AY S 1 2 - 5 P M

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