Spring 2012

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Community of the Year!

A unique community within walking distance to downtown.

You owe yourself a visit!

Show Homes Open Daily noon - 5pm 1358 Glenview Avenue, Kelowna, BC

250.763.7209

w w w. b r i d g e s l i v i n g . c o m

INSIDE SPRING 2012

Issue 23, Spring 2012 ISSN 1913-0759 www.OkanaganHome.com info@okanaganhome.com Publishers: Justin O’Connor, Christy Hughes Chief Editor: Christy Hughes Managing Editor: Bobbi-Sue Menard Art Director: Tyson Henderson

Renovation Adventure Page 18

FEATURES 18

Renovation Adventure

36

Stonewater On Lake Okanagan

40

Golf Course Living At Black Mountain

46

Lakeview Terrace

50

West Harbour Lake Dreams

54

The Beautiful Life

LIFESTYLE 26

Welcome Shell Busey

32

Spring Fitness At Home

56

West Kelowna Redevelopment Plan

58

Show Home Map

COVER: Courtesy of Valley Pool & Spa

Advertising Executives: Justin O’Connor, Arlene Paulsen, Gary Noble Contributors: Justin O’Connor, Christy Hughes, Bobbi-Sue Menard, Darcy Nybo, David Wylie, Dave Trifunov, Don Gerein, Denis Apchin, Jay Christensen, Richard Montgomery, Lindsay Goertzen, Kim Jones Okanagan HOME Magazine Box 153, 105-3957 Lakeshore Road Kelowna, BC V1W 1V3 www.OkanaganHome.com 250.826.9961 info@okanaganhome.com President: Justin O’Connor Okanagan HOME Magazine makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information it publishes; however, it cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from errors or omissions to story, ad or photo content. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced, in whole or in part, including distribution by any electronic method, including email, website or other distribution without the written consent of the publisher.

Upon publication, Okanagan HOME Magazine acquires Canadian Serial Rights and copyright to all content included in this issue.

DEPARTMENTS 28

Kitchens | Sophisticated Family

31

Bathrooms | Luxury In The Details

60

Architecture | Establish A Sense Of Place

62

Artist Profile | Daphne Odjig

64

Builder Profile | Sitka Log Homes

66

Materials | Windows

67

Planning | Begin Your Pool In The Spring

70

Accessorize | Outdoor Garden

COLUMNS

Golf Course Living At Black Mountain Page 40 Copper Sky page 36

14

Real Estate Review

15

Denis On Design

16

Wealth

17

Legal

30

Spa At Home

63

Green Housing

Y Y

From the Publishers ou’ve likely noticed a shift in the sun lately - warmer, brighter, and more enduring. Gaining strength with each passing day. Setting us on the cusp of what must be spring. This issue of Okanagan HOME is packed with topics to encourage a freshening of the spirit this season.

This issue we introduce our newest columnist, Shell Busey.

Take a cue from Shell, whose success is wrapped up in his aim to never sit idle. A glimpse into the early years of B.C.’s handyman is motivation for all of us as we pursue our passions. If we can learn anything from Shell, it’s that there is no time too late

for a fresh start.

Perhaps the best beginning for renewal lies with your home. Enjoy the green blossoming around you and get motivated to bring some “green” to your own home this spring. Have a look at the latest trend in energy efficient windows. Euroline Windows introduces us to the ThermoPlus window. Or take some advice from our “green” expert, FortisBC’s Kim Jones. She discusses why LED lighting is sure to transform home lighting over the next few years.

Have a bigger project in mind? Inhale some inspiration from our cover story; a $4.2 million renovation where the ambition of a West Kelowna couple takes form with a breathtaking result. Now that’s what we call a challenge!

With longer days and warmer weather ahead, spring is the season to get active and get out in the Okanagan Valley.

To start, consider a change that is good for your health and your soul. Do you find it hard to make it to the gym? Get into an exercise routine in the convenience and comfort of your own home with some direction from Fitness on the Go personal trainer, Jon Campell.

He’ll show you how to make the most of the space in your home to get active and stay fit.

Another wonderful way to enjoy the great weather and get off that couch is to head for the golf course. Maybe you’ll enjoy it so much you’ll decide to move in – literally! Explore with us, golf course living at Black Mountain.

Looking to buy new construction this spring? Reserve an afternoon or two to tour some of the Okanagan Valley’s most beautiful show homes with the help of our Show Home Map. Take advantage of new HST policies in effect this spring for new home builds.

Lastly, what better way to get out in the Okanagan than to enjoy some of the Valley’s finest wine in a locale that may inspire a Tuscan flair in your own abode? Take a trip to Bonitas Winery in Summerland and enjoy the Mediterranean-inspired setting where thriving winery meets charming estate. Imagine yourself in your own private vineyard manor with sweeping lake views. Not up to the commitment? Enjoy some fine wine with a tasting at the wine shop. Better yet, stay for lunch at Bonita’s Bistro restaurant on site and gaze out at the beautiful blue of Okanagan Lake as you sip your Viognier.

Now it feels like spring.

Justin & Christy

Please let us know how this issue of Okanagan HOME inspired you to freshen up and come alive this spring. Write to info@okanaganhome.com.

News Wilden is the scene of major activity this spring. The neighborhood is in the process of developing a new street of dreams with new show homes in the Skylands neighborhood expected by early summer. Wilden has five preferred builders, Meadow Ridge, Edgecombe, Rykon, Fawdry and Authentech.

When the new street of dreams is complete, each builder will have a new show home plus Wilden will add another home for a total of six different homes to tour, giving prospective buyers the true scope of what is possible at Wilden.

Of equal importance at Wilden is the new road development designed to connect phase 1 and phase 2 of the neighborhood.

This is a $7.2 million dollar investment by the developer, Gerhard Blenk, and a key piece of his original vision for the development. The contract was awarded to Ansell Construction of Kelowna.

The new road will create the Wilden Loop and 74 view lots will be added. Currently Wilden has lots priced from $139,900 to over $500,000 for estate lake view lots.

Melcor Developments Ltd. has commenced the planning process for an ‘Area Structure Plan’ for their lands situated between the north end of Clifton road and the south end of Arthur Court. Melcor received City of Kelowna approval to prepare the plan in July 2011. The approval allows Melcor to proceed with a planning study to determine the development potential of these lands along with the appropriate infrastructure (water, sewer, etc.), open space networks, parks, trails and areas for environmental protection. The City has

10 Okanagan HOME Spring 2012

set a threshold for the potential development at a maximum of 200 units.

Melcor is working with the assistance of their lead planning and engineering consultant, MMM Group Limited. The process requires extensive and ongoing consultation with all stakeholders and City departments. Melcor’s objective is to create a stunning community of predominantly single-family residential lots with ample parks, trails, waterfront access and open spaces.

Visit www.cliftonmckinleyasp.com for more information.

Predator Ridge is building multiple projects scheduled to be unveiled this spring and summer. Two show homes are nearing completion for spring openings. The first show home opens in April. The second, the Ellison show home is scheduled to open in May and it is a Kelly Deck Signature Home.

Birdie Lake Place will be introducing 3 new home designs; the architecture is by esteemed Aspen, Colorado architect, Bill Poss. The award winning Poss portfolio includes some of the best mountain and resort architecture in North America with exceptional use of stone, timber and modern styling.

For the first time Predator Ridge is adding fractional ownership opportunities at The Tips. Shared by only 12 owners, townhomes at The Tips will be luxuriously appointed two bedroom, two and a half bath homes with private hot tub, BBQ and golf cart access. A private salt water swimming pool will be available exclusively to The Tips owners and guests.

West Kelowna welcomes Gateway Urban Village, April 7. The development is an urban high density community with a ‘downtown’ feel. The Elliott Road location has great views, plus three shopping malls, the movie theatre, community centre and library are each within a two block radius. The walkability of the project is in keeping with its urban ethos.

The first release of townhomes has 22 units between 1650 sq. feet and 2120 sq. feet, distributed among two five-plex buildings and two six-plexes. Gateway Urban Village will be built by Dilworth Homes. Future plans call for a sophisticated mix of town homes and reasonably priced condos. Up to 215 dwellings can be constructed on the site.

The work at SOPA Square in the Pandosy district of Kelowna is now visible above ground and buyers responded in early spring with a jolt in sales. The entire mixed-use project is being constructed in a single phase.

The build site spreads over 1.79 acres.

SOPA Square is targeting a LEED Gold 45 points.

Osoyoos Cottages are slated to have their show suites open in May. The vacation style development features a low-bank sandy beach on Osoyoos Lake, a clubhouse with fitness centre, an outdoor pool complex with two pools, outdoor kitchen and two hot tubs. For the boat owner looking for a vacation cottage, the development has a dock

with boat slips. Visit www.osoyooscottages.com for more info.

Kettle Valley Moulding & Millwork is the new venture of the employees of the former Cajun Moulding. When Cajun Moulding was put into receivership last November the skilled employees rallied together, bought up the assets of the former company and launched their local manufacturing company producing premium-quality, stain-grade mouldings and custom staircases. The new company has expanded their product line to include custom-built millwork solutions.

The name and ownership of the company changed, but the location did not; Kettle Valley Moulding & Millwork is located on Dease Road in Kelowna.

The renovation at Marshall’s Home Living in Kelowna is complete. The store has completed a large shift in inventory with a few new lines and an evolved outlook, keeping the store in step with current local and national trends.

Downtown Kelowna has a new, high-end home accessories store, Lakehouse. The privately owned retail home store has assembled a collection of top kitchen, giftware and home décor brands from around the globe. Look for a mix of quality necessities and hard to find luxuries from Le Crueset, Saeco, Viking, Jaipur and more.

Need a new rug for your outdoor living space because the old one wore out? Art Knapp in Kelowna has the solution; a brand new selection of outdoor rugs constructed from straw-like plastic tubing made from premium quality recycled polypropylene. The exquisite patterns of the rugs are formed when the straws are woven together to offer strength, softness and beauty. The colors used are UV stabilized to prevent fading and deterioration from exposure to sun.

Moisture will have no affect whatsoever on these plastic rugs, while mildew will always stay away. The rugs are washable and can be easily cleaned with a garden hose and soap. The material makes them well suited for outdoor use, but they look equally beautiful indoors. They are light and easy to take along for picnics and camping trips.

If you have boulders in your landscaping that could do with a little more pizzazz, Franklin Industries is expanding their reach into the Okanagan. The Cawston log restoration company added custom stone engraving to their corporate portfolio four years ago. They did over 300 stone engravings at Regal Ridge in the south Okanagan and are now offering the service throughout the Valley. Projects can include engravings from the whimsical to the prosaic, house numbers show up beautifully and permanently.

Contact Chris Franklin at www.logrestoration.ca.

HST – What it means to buyers and builders.

Provincial Finance Minister, Kevin Falcon announced new measures to ease the transition from HST to PST for new home buyers and builders.

The government labeled the plan, ‘transition measures.’ The measures increase the rebate of the provincial portion of the HST on new homes until the HST is completely phased out.

The government will release several fact sheets describing the plan in great detail. The over arching purpose is to, “help ensure when people buy a newly constructed home under the PST, whether built entirely under the HST, entirely under the PST, they will all pay a consistent and equitable amount of tax. The transition rules provide certainty for new-home construction and sales particularly during the transition period.”

The recent historical estimate of PST paid on a new home in British Columbia is two percent. While the HST was in effect prior to the transition measures announcement, a rebate on the provincial portion of the HST was available on new home purchases up to $525,000. The old rebate regime was designed

Okanagan HOME Spring 2012 11

to limit the impact of the HST on new home building by maintain a rough equivalent impact of the PST tax value on a new home purchase.

Effective April 1, 2012 the new BC housing rebate threshold will increase to $850,000. About 90 percent of all new homes built in BC will be covered under this new threshold. The new maximum rebate amount is $42,500. This rebate applies to all new home purchases of principal residences in BC. For the first time, secondary vacation and recreation new home purchases will be eligible to claim a provincial grant of up to $42,500, effective April 12, 2012. This is brand new rebate money for the purchasers of second homes in the Okanagan.

The province’s portion of the HST will not apply to new build homes when construction begins on or after April 1, 2013. In those homes, builders will revert to paying PST on materials and on average, about two percent of the home’s final price will be embedded PST. The temporary measures will be in place until March 31, 2015, to cover longer owner possession timelines. The tax only applies to homes where construction begins before the transition date and ownership and possession occur after.

CRA will handle rebates for out of province buyers on behalf of the province. In press materials the government states the reason for the secondary home rebate plan is, “To help support workers and communities in B.C. that depend on residential recreational development, purchasers of new secondary vacation or recreational homes outside the Greater Vancouver and Capital regional districts.” H

12 Okanagan HOME Spring 2012

Up

I

FRONT No one knows the Okanagan like our Experts

In This Issue: DON GEREIN talks about how demographics and the economic climate are positives for the Okanagan.

DENIS APCHIN covers the style influences that define the homes in your neighborhood.

JAY CHRISTENSEN explains how to manage personal financial risk with guaranteed minimum withdrawl benefit products.

RICHARD MONTGOMERY explores the pitfalls and payoffs of purchasing properties in foreclosure.

It’s all in the details in this family room renovation. Page 19

Real Estate Review PEOPLE VOTE WITH THEIR FEET

BY DON GEREIN, MANAGING BROKER ur recent National Census results have become public and there are a few surprises. We are a nation of 33.5 million people, and we display the fastest growth in the G8. A huge revelation is the concentration of growth in the 4 western provinces which now comprise almost one third of Canada’s population. The fastest growing metropolitan areas in Canada are Calgary, Edmonton, Saskatoon, Kelowna, Moncton and Vancouver. Four of these major centers are just a short WestJet flight from Kelowna. The Kelowna region nearly doubled the national growth rate. Obviously people are moving firstly towards economic activity (jobs) and secondly towards attractive places that present a variety of positive lifestyle options. This movement has occurred silently during a protracted global economic downturn in spite of the constant stream of negative media attention.

While the demographic breakdown of the Census is still to come, I think we can surmise that the population shift will be comprised of young families in the case of Alberta and Saskatchewan and that the motivation will be financial. We can also surmise

O

14 Okanagan HOME Spring 2012

that an older demographic will choose Kelowna to be their home during retirement. Economies can shift between resources and the workers will shift with the flow, but you can’t move a lake or a climate pattern so people will continue to flow to Kelowna because of our attributes.

Those people who moved here in the last two to three years have found excellent selection in the real estate market. The average price of a single family dwelling is hovering around $400,000 and even better values are presenting themselves in the strata market. New construction costs are extremely competitive for those demanding a custom home. Recent changes to the HST and its abolition in early 2013 should bring the sounds of hammers and saws back to subdivisions.

I am often asked what buyers are looking for or what drives their buying decisions. The answer is always the same – stability. Money flows towards stability and money flows away from instability.

This is a fundamental rule of economics which is always at work. The Central Okanagan is presenting a stable, beautiful place to live and people have been silently voting with their feet (and their wallets). This is a trend that will continue for some time. H Don Gerein is the Managing Broker at MacDonald Realty Kelowna.

Denis On Design ARCHITECTURAL STYLE

BY DENIS APCHIN, DESIGNER/PROJECT MANAGER

W

e have all heard the term “house style” or “architectural style” and are familiar with examples like: Tudor, Victorian, or Colonial. These styles are easier to identify because they are from a historic period and their appearance or “styles” were developed regionally based on local materials, construction methods and building envelopes available at the time.

Can you identify what style your home is or others on your street? If you’re having trouble it is because most buildings today are a combination of several styles. Homes built in the last half of the century are often called “neo-eclectic”, meaning they are a mix of elements from many times, places and building practices.

The break from traditional home designs started as far back as 1919 with the Bauhaus movement in Germany. Bauhaus architects wanted to use the principles of classical architecture in their purest form, designing simple, useful structures without ornamentation or excess. Bauhaus buildings have flat roofs, smooth facades and simple cubic shapes. Bauhaus ideas spread worldwide and led to the International Style or

Art Moderne movement in North America.

The Art Moderne style truly reflected the spirit of the early and mid-twentieth century. For homeowners, the Art Moderne style was practical because these simple dwellings were so easy and economical to build.

At the same time, the clean and distinctive Art Moderne or Streamline Moderne style was also favoured by the rich and famous.

Since the late 1960s, a movement away from modernism and a trend for more traditional styles influenced the design of modest tract housing in North America. Builders began to borrow freely from a variety of historic traditional styles, unfortunately in many cases without much consideration for continuity or context.

Neo-eclectic homes today are kitsch in nature and do not reflect the artistic vision you would find in a truly original, architect or designer conceived home.

The style of houses will shift again. Developers and builders will need to embrace the demand of the consumer’s desire for original site specific design solutions. Green technologies and sustainable homes will now influence the style of homes of the future. H Denis Apchin is an award winning, Okanagan based designer of spectacular, luxury homes.

Okanagan HOME Spring 2012 15

Wealth GUARANTEED MINIMUM WITHDRAWAL BENEFITS

BY JAY CHRISTENSEN, FINANCIAL PLANNER

R

etirement should be a time to enjoy life – not worry about your income and investments. However, retirement does bring a new set of financial challenges and risks.

There’s the risk of outliving your money. Canadians are living longer, and many worry that they won’t have enough savings to last their entire retirement. Another concern is the possibility of a significant market downturn during your retirement. If equity markets fall, your income could suffer – impacting your lifestyle. Yet if you play it safe and only invest conservatively, your returns may be insufficient to support your retirement.

A great option is a guaranteed minimum withdrawal benefit product. On the investment side, it preserves your capital – you never lose the initial money you invest. And on the income side, it can provide an annual income that is guaranteed.

With certain products, you can even choose guaranteed income for life.

A guaranteed minimum withdrawal benefit product works like

this: You invest a lump sum into your choice of segregated funds that offer the guaranteed minimum withdrawal benefit. Speak to your representative about the guarantees and estate planning benefits of segregated funds.

Generally, at age 65 or after, you begin receiving a guaranteed annual income either for a specified number of years or for life. The income is based on a percentage of your principal and any increases – commonly 5%. Payments are a return of capital, plus any increases from bonuses and resets. You may withdraw funds before age 65, but this can affect the amount of future payments or the number of years that payments are made. In addition, your income can increase. Periodically, every three years for example, growth in your investment portfolio is automatically locked in. This resets your annual guaranteed income to a higher amount. So you enjoy the peace of mind of an income that may be guaranteed for life, while never worrying about market performance. If markets fall, your income remains guaranteed. If markets rise, your income can increase. H Jay Christensen is a Financial Planner with Valley First. Valley First has branches throughout the Okanagan, Thompson and Similkameen valleys, and provides members with a full service financial institution.

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© 2011 Benjamin Moore & Co., Limited. Benjamin Moore and the triangle “M” symbol are registered trademarks and Colour Stories is a trademarks of Benjamin Moore & Co., Limited.

16 Okanagan HOME Spring 2012

Legal BUYING PROPERTIES UNDER FORECLOSURE

BY RICHARD MONTGOMERY, LAWYER

M

any people believe that buying a property that is being sold under a foreclosure means that they will get a great deal. Sometimes you can, but that is not always the case.

In a sale by foreclosure, any offer must be approved by the courts before the sale can proceed.

The courts will require an appraisal to be produced, so the presiding judge will know the fair market value of the property. If the price in the offer is close to the fair market value, then the offer is usually approved. If it is too low, in the judge’s opinion, it will likely not be approved unless the property has been on the market for a fair amount of time and there are no other offers forthcoming. In making its decision, the court is trying to allow the lender to get their loan repaid as soon as possible, but at the same time the court wants to allow the homeowners to get some realization of their equity in the property.

There are some risks to buying a foreclosure, especially if the home owner is still occupying the property: 1. They could refuse to vacate on the closing date, in which

case the lender must go back to court for another court order to get vacant possession. Meanwhile your possession date gets delayed.

2. The homeowner may be upset and resentful about the foreclosure and cause damage to the property on their “way out”. The lender will generally not agree to do the necessary repairs.

You may be stuck with these costs. Even if the lender does agree to do the repairs, which must be written into the contract, then again there will be a delay on the possession date.

Always remember to check if the property is vacant and the locks have been changed, then have a home inspection done. That way the risk of any damage subsequent to your inspection will be reduced. H Richard Montgomery is a Partner at Montgomery Miles Law Firm. His business clients are varied and include proprietorships, partnerships, companies, investors, developers, and financial institutions. His real estate clients range from lending and mortgage work to conveyancing, leasing and development transactions. He believes that everyone should have a proper estate plan and understands the issues and concerns encountered by clients and has the practical knowledge to advise his clients and deal with these situations.

Okanagan HOME Spring 2012 17

Photos By Digital Dean

18 Okanagan HOME Spring 2012

It is an adventure of the best kind when a complete home renovation including the backyard takes four years to complete and the home owners are beyond happy with the result. The completed Tocher residence renovation in West Kelowna is that sort of adventure and the result is a blending of the personal styles of owners, John and Linda Tocher.

Above: Lit up at night the residence shows off the custom stone pillar water feature, arched entry and two level garage. Far left: The windows in the master bedroom take advantage of the view. Near left: The beams in the living room were centered to properly frame the fireplace.

Okanagan HOME Spring 2012 19

BY BOBBI-SUE MENARD

W

hen the Tochers moved to West Kelowna in the mid 1990’s, the community was their preferred choice from day one of arriving in the Valley. Their search for a mind bending view continued until they found this residence with its sweeping views of Okanagan Lake, the Bennett Bridge and West Kelowna. “The view just changes completely from day to day,” says John. “The eagles fly at our level.”

The house came with a tight backyard perched on the hill-

20 40 Okanagan Okanagan HOME HOME Spring Spring 2012 2012

When you allow people the opportunity to put their ideas forward you get the best results,” explains Linda.

side. Expanding the outdoor space and installing a reasonably sized pool became the priority in 2008. The Tochers enlisted Josiah McLeod from Sunny Slope Landscape to radically overhaul and rebuild the frankly large retaining wall. The design features offset curved terraces eliding along the edge of the master curved retaining wall.

Once the wall was well underway the couple looked for the right pool design. Initial rectangular designs didn’t capture their imagination. After time spent searching through magazines they “bit the bullet,” laughs John and went with a curved infinity edge pool.

Top international pool designer, Skip Phillips was brought in to maximize the design value of the site and Valley Pool and Spa built the pool. The pool is a work of art with a swim up bar set in a yard that can host 40 to 50 people easily.

After three years spent on constructing the yard, the Tochers felt there was only a few finishing aesthetic touches to bring the project to a close.

That is when the Tochers met Kelowna designer Paul Nesbitt.

Linda had seen Paul’s work for years up and down the Valley.

Nesbitt is known for his near fanatic attention to detail, he produces incredible drawings and plans for every project.

What started as a suggestion to bring the organic lines of installations in the back yard together became a full scale gutting of the entire home. The first part of the renovations was a few suggestions on an interior walk in closet.

“This entire renovation is rather like when you give a mouse a cookie he’ll want a glass of milk,” remarks John, referencing the classic children’s story of growing ambition.

Next came an incredible team effort as Nesbitt worked with partner Top left: The kitchen features an Okanagan Dream Builder exceptionally long island capped to pull apart the Tochers’ with custom cut and stacked back home and create a design lit glass. Bottom left: The pool that blended John and at night, in the foreground is the Linda’s visions. lower seating area. Above: The “When you allow people shower in the master bath. the opportunity to put their ideas forward you get the best results,” explains Linda.

After approving the design the Tochers left the country on a 75 day cruise. “We trusted those guys 100 percent that they were going to do it well,” remarks John.

The renovation took approximately seven and a half months and was completed in May of 2011, and the Tochers moved back home after completing their renovation exile at Big White. Nine months after moving back home the couple has a fond tour of their newly renovated home. The three stoOkanagan HOME Spring 2012 21

22 Okanagan HOME Spring 2012

rey residence is built with Top: The lower level steam room a central gallery on each is finished in the same mosaic tile floor, an expansive deck as the pool. Lower: The pool table, fronts the gallery on each grand piano and bar are a host’s level. Bedrooms, sitting dream. rooms and entertainment rooms are distributed at either end of the gallery on each floor.

The design starts with incredible wood work installations on the ceiling from KP Manufacturing. The panels float from the ceiling and are finished to the exacting millwork and coating standards of a high end piano. The custom glass work from Mon Petite Studios in Lake Country punctuates doorways, stair wells and the kitchen island. The long kitchen island is a single slab of granite. Every element catches the staggering amount of light in the home. The exterior gallery wall is almost entirely windows on every level.

“In 20 years the look of the home won’t be dated,” says Linda. The furnishings were found almost entirely in Kelowna.

Many of the pieces came through interior designer Kathleen Hamel. One of the exceptions is the rugs picked up on their cruise while in Turkey.

The project came in on budget. The Tochers credit that to the team they worked with and their adamant decision to work only with leadership and crew who had a positive attitude - negative talk was verboten on the job site. After the planning it was a matter of trust and adventure. H

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Okanagan HOME Spring 2012 23

592 KLO Road Kelowna, B.C.

I would like to thank all 60 of our agents for their hard work in challenging times.

I congratulate these award winners for 2011 and we all look forward to 2012 with optimism.

Commercial Excellence Scott Brown

Chairman’s Club

Gary Athans

Mark Gidden

David Jurome

Gerry Fraser

Maureen Dixon

Lindsay McDonald

Jane Morgan

Gino Dal Ponte

Cindy Garner

Master Salesleader

President’s Club

Donna Easton

Brenda Bachmann

George Patridge

Dal Anderson

Linda Kerry

Manuella Farnsworth

Darlene Hank Bachmann Hutchinson

Krista Suchar

Salesleader

Brent Couves

Dinah Batke

Wayne Ross

Top Partnership

Suzie Doratti

Christopher Blake

Top Team

Property Source Group

Mark Gidden & Associates Personal Real Estate Corp

Gino Dal Ponte

Cindy Garner

Dal Anderson

Mark Gidden

Lloyd Taverner

Your HOME . . . Your

Sharing

LIFESTYLE Friendship

Joy

Meditation

Playing

Entertaining

Comfort

Eating

Home Relaxing

Bliss Family

LIFESTYLE

Welcome Shell Busey

BY DARCY NYBO

B

ritish Columbia’s handyman, Shell Busey was visiting the Okanagan recently and picked up a copy of Okanagan HOME. He was so taken with the magazine that he contacted the publishers and the rest as they say, is history.

Okanagan HOME is delighted to have Busey on board as a regular contributor to our magazine, and we are honoured to have him as part of our talented team.

Shell Busey wasn’t always well known. He was a regular guy growing up in Owen Sound, Ontario. Beaver Lumber offered him a job and he took it. At that time the company had a program in place called Beaver U where employees were given the opportunity of learning all aspects of the building supply business. Busey jumped at the chance.

He worked in the yard, the warehouse, in sales and in supervisory positions. He got out into the community and was involved in agriculture and the cottage and manufactured housing industry. Beaver U helped Busey achieve the title of youngest manager of a Beaver retail store.

He was hand picked to run their flagship store in Windsor, Ontario. In the meantime Shell was married and had two young daughters.

For the next eight years he accumulated more and more stores under his watchful eye, until 1973 when the company asked him to move to B.C. He jumped in with both feet and took on five Beaver Lumber stores in the lower mainland and converted them into Saveway Building Supplies, a store created for cash and carry business.

Once the five stores were up and running he wore two hats. He would manage the five Saveway stores in the Lower Mainland and then head north as the Beaver Lumber guy. Two years of crazy hours and travel schedules followed until Busey met with the head honchos in Ontario. They’d changed their mind and wanted all Saveway stores turned back into Beaver stores. Busey resigned.

Busey looked at other ways to support his growing family. “I’ve never been without a job and never been without a challenge,” he says from his home in the Lower Mainland. “I became a consultant and my clients included Co-ops and Irly Bird stores.” Consulting wasn’t enough and eventually Busey decided to buy a Windsor Plywood store. “I think it was the eighth store in Canada at that time,” he says. “During my time with them I was given the opportunity to go on the radio and be the renovation guy during renovation month in October.”

26 Okanagan HOME Spring 2012

In 1978 Busey took to the airwaves at CJOR and working with Rafe Mair. After their ďŹ rst show together, Mair remarked he had never seen the phones light up like that unless the topic was politics. He was asked to come back at the end of October and the phone lines went crazy again. That was the beginning of Home Improvement Radio.

Three weeks later Busey had the Build It show that ran every Saturday morning. “It never ceased to amaze me when I did the show how long it took to do it. By the time I drove down to the radio station and back it was noon and I was missing the busiest times at the store. I told the station I would have to give up the show, as I was missing out on business. The radio station didn’t want to lose me so they set up equipment right in the store and invited people to come down and ask questions.� Several years into the show Busey had a rude awakening. “Around 1986 I realized people were coming into the shop, asking me for my expertise and then driving to another store for the supplies.� By 1988 Busey was a household name.

After crunching the numbers he sold the store to become a full time radio personality and provide referrals for home owners needing qualiďŹ ed trades people. His referral service was ďŹ rst known as Shell Busey’s Build It Services, which later changed to the Shell Busey HouseSmart Home Services Referral Network. BC Hydro asked him to launch the BC Hydro Power Smart Program. It was a busy time for Busey and his family.

They moved a house onto the PNE grounds and renovated it into a Power Smart house. Busey stayed with BC Hydro doing Power Smart shows across the province for twelve years, during which time he would take his youngest daughter Monica with him. She still works with her dad, second only to mother Frankie, the administrator of HouseSmart. Although she didn’t get into the ďŹ x-it business, oldest daughter Kyna became an operating room nurse, ďŹ xing up people instead of homes.

From 1994 to 2000 Busey had a TV show on Global TV called Home Check. On July 1, 2011 Busey gave his last radio broadcast and said goodbye to talk radio. “I really wanted to be able to spend some time with my grandkids and their dad. Doing radio programs on Saturday and Sunday didn’t give me any weekends o. I’ve done the show from basements, washrooms, down south, but no one ever knew that I left the studio. When I retired from radio I retired from working eight days a week. Now I only work ďŹ ve days a week as CEO of Shell Busey HouseSmart Home Services and Shell Busey’s Home Improvements.â€?

Busey has stepped into the 21st century the same way he jumps into everything; feet ďŹ rst with as much energy as a child amped up on sugar. He has switched his marketing over from TV and talk shows to websites and newsletters. People still keep in touch and get their questions answered by being a member of the Shell Busey’s HouseSmart Club, which is free to join by going to AskShell.com.

When asked if he’d ever retire from all his companies Busey replied. “When I am looking up and can see the brown roots of the green grass above, then I’ll retire. I am not a person who is going to sit around. I’ve got so much I can do. As long as I can help people with their homes, I’ll be working.�

And for that, we are grateful. Welcome to Okanagan HOME, Shell. H

Okanagan HOME Spring 2012 27

Kitchens

Sophisticated Family T

BY BOBBI-SUE MENARD

his space began as a small enclosed kitchen attached to an equally small dining room. Opening up the space was appealing to kitchen designer Grant Gettens of Ellis Creek Kitchens and his wife Riley and two boys Chay, 5 and Jase, 7. Grant tells the story of how and why he transformed his own kitchen.

Rather than have two small spaces, we combined the space with one big island that would serve multiple functions. The idea was to make room for cooking and prepping meals as well as a comfortable place to sit around for mealtime. While entertaining there is plenty of room for everyone to hang out in the kitchen. Meals are often outside in the summer.

On the working side of the island, two wide drawer units on casters roll out to the edge of the counter; when there is a gathering, the cabinets roll back under the top, so the whole 12 foot top can become one big table.

The original bearing wall was replaced with a post and beam for support. To add a little interest to the space the ceiling treatment was designed for enclosed recess lighting. The ceiling treatment also has recess for solar shades.

A mix of materials was used. I wanted a simple palette that would complement our surroundings here in Penticton. We have a great view and are surrounded by huge trees, desert grass and sage and Okanagan Lake. Along the perimeter we used Plyboo dark strand (bamboo plywood) ďŹ nished with clear 40 Okanagan HOME Spring 2012 28

Photos Courtesy Of Ellis Creek Kitchens

lacquer for the doors and drawer fronts.

This material is super tough and laminated in an interesting way, so I decided not to apply any edge treatments and to simply expose the edge, which was sanded and finished.

The upper wall cabinets are finished within a frosty white lacquer. I like the idea of mixing materials; the glass door cabinets have anodized aluminum frames with an opaque gazette glass.

The counter tops are Cameo White Corian solid surface; there were a few reasons for this decision. This material is seamed together and the seams become invisible - this is great for the big island. The solid surface material has a sanded finish which is less reflective, is a little warmer to the touch than solid stone and can be repaired if need be over time; a good thing when you have two destructive young boys.

Lighting was important in a multi-

use space. All of the lighting was installed with dimmable switches so you can set the mood for the evening or entertaining. The under cabinet lights are great task lighting and help show off the glass and travertine mosaic back splash. I also incorporated lighting under the island countertop and behind the stand-off panels at the front of the island. The backside of the island is custom colour, lacquered to match the post, beam and soffits. This is quite a durable kitchen, the stainless steel toe kicks help protect the bottom of the cabinets. The hard material and flat door panels with the long stainless steel pulls are easy to keep clean. The padded high back chairs are quite comfortable so we can hang out for a long time.

H

Okanagan HOME Spring 2012 29

Spa At Home HOW TO TURN YOUR BATHROOM INTO A DESERT OASIS

BY LINDSAY GOERTZEN, AURA BEAUTY

R

elaxation. A place to unplug.

Health. These reasons typically come to mind first when thinking of the spa. Add to that professional aesthetic services and some time alone and we can see why spas have become so popular.

We cannot, however, always get to the spa when life gets stressful. The bathroom is our sanctuary, a place where we can close the door and (hopefully!) get some time alone. With a few simple tips, I’ll show you how to turn your bathroom from a necessary chore to a relaxing oasis in the desert of life.

But first, what is it that makes the spa so relaxing? Certainly the process of getting out of the house and going to the spa is important, as are the actual services you receive while indulging. The atmosphere of the spa, however, is carefully laid out in order for you to achieve that zen-like state as quickly as possible.

Here’s some small ways you can achieve the same state in your bathroom.

1. Cleanliness: Being clean and clutter free is an important

30 Okanagan HOME Spring 2012

way to feel relaxed. Take 30 minutes and give your bathroom a once over. Get rid of all the dust, stains, and clutter as soon as you can.

2. Candles: A not-so-secret weapon of women everywhere, the soft light of a candle does wonders for relaxation and changing your mood.

Light a few scented candles in your bathroom and take slow, deep breaths.

3. White towels: One trick of the spa, using white towels gives the impression of cleanliness and comfort. Pick up a few fluffy white towels to add subtlety to your experience.

4. Relaxing music: Nothing can change your state as fast as some relaxing music. Purchase a CD of nature sounds, and let the music ease the tension out of your shoulders.

And of course, your hubby giving you a foot massage is sure to help. When you need to unplug from the stresses of life but can’t get out to the spa, use these tips to transform your bathroom into your own paradise in the desert. H Lindsay Goertzen is the co-founder of Aura Beauty, the premier mobile at home spa service in the Okanagan.

B at h r o o m s

Photo By Colin Jewall

Luxury in the Details T

his Bill Frame Custom Homes bathroom has all the hallmarks of careful and innovative detailing. Beginning with the beautiful, two-way fireplace between the master suite and ensuite, it is finished with beautiful, fine-grained white-to-gray Bianco Carrerra marble. The custom paneled walls surrounding the fireplace complete the look of the installation and echo the custom millwork in the room.

The heated Bianco Carrerra patterned floor features insets to define separate areas, while the peaked roof above lends volume to the space and draws the eye towards the alcove where the graceful lines of the tub make their own statement. The tub occupies a vantage point with a spectacular view of Kelowna.

The maple cabinets are painted and chalked, then completed with glass pulls. The cabinetry is finished with identical marble countertops in the long vanity with entirely separate sinks. The sinks are separated by a glass door linen tower.

The slipper tub in the alcove is perfect for a bubble bath while overlooking Kelowna. The fireplace adds a new dimension of cozy to the room.

The wall sconce lighting is chrome and glass to echo the shiny chrome fixtures and add to the airy feeling of the room.

Silver and crystal accessories in the room keep the feel light and airy.

Unseen in the photo is a large shower faced with Bianco Carrerra marble with two shower heads plus a body spray.

The bathroom is accessed from a foyer off the master bedroom, allowing instant passage to either the ensuite or the master closet, each in a separate direction. H

Okanagan HOME Spring 2012 31

L ii ftecshteyn l es K

Spring Fitness at Home

K

elowna personal trainer Jon Campbell knows exactly what it takes to get fit using the space in your home. Campbell is the owner of Fitness On The Go, an at home fitness training company. Campbell has spent 14 professional years in the fitness industry, plus he has a BSc in kinesiology, he has seen every age and stage of fitness. In short Campbell is a guy who focuses on results.

Only about 20 percent of us are motivated to go to the gym on a regular basis and that leaves plenty of people who need a different option to achieve physical fitness. Below are some of Campbell’s top tips to reach your goals in the comfort of your home.

1. Make sure you know where you are at right now. An at home consultation is a good way to assess your current fitness, identify problem areas and work with a pro to put a plan in place to deal with any health concerns. Before starting any at home fitness you should check with your family doctor.

2. Have a plan. Schedule your sessions into your Blackberry or ask someone to remind you to work out.

3. Choose your opportunity. “There are tons of opportunities everywhere you look for fitness,” says Campbell. You can find what works for you; look online for great fitness videos, start a home gym, make a minor investment in basic body weight equipment like a bosu ball.

4. Get moving. “It will take hard work, there is no overnight solution,” says Campbell. “Hard work and consistency are what get results.”

In your home there are things you can do to make your work out easier to achieve. Campbell recommends keeping your exercise space out of the basement, especially if you don’t

40 Okanagan HOME Spring 2012 32

routinely go into the basement because you don’t care for the space. Good lighting and as little as 10 feet by 10 feet of space can be enough to get started.

If you don’t have a home gym and no interest in buying equipment Campbell says the solution is body weight exercises including lunges, pushups and work with strength tubing which can achieve surprising results. If you want even better results pick dynamic exercises that move multiple muscles groups at once.

1. Home gym equipment is designed to make your work out easier. The home fitness industry has some incredibly refined and quality pieces of equipment that will help you achieve results.

“Buy the equipment you will use,” says Campbell. “If you like to run buy a treadmill. Start with cardio equipment first.”

2. Next add strength equipment. “There has been tremendous focus in the industry to make weight machines efficient and effective,” explains Campbell. Look for a ‘functional trainer,’ Campbell suggests checking out Inspire Fitness for quality models.

3. Core stability equipment. A bosu ball, medicine ball and exercise ball give you a huge range of options for developing the core.

4. Flexibility. A yoga mat, quality yoga video and diligence can change how your body feels and operates for the long term.

A beautiful home gym is lovely, but Campbell says, “You don’t need a lot of expensive equipment to see results. You need motivation and hard work.” H

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Features

Find your Okanagan HOME in this issue.

Whatever your lifestyle is, the right home is waiting for you‌

A

A lakefront haven awaits at Stonewater on Lake Okanagan. When the links call your name have a custom home built at Black Mountain. Townhomes with a modern design approach and spectacular lake views are at Lakeview Terrace. A family home on the water is waiting for you at West Harbour. An estate winery experience is the perfect afternoon at Bonitas Winery.

Builder Profile

C

Stonewater On lake Okanagan

Photos By Showcase Photography

36 Okanagan HOME Spring 2012

C

C

BY DAVID WYLIE

Top left: A main floor living room at Stonewater. Bottom left: The view from the deck is breathtaking. Below: A family room with Slung ® glass doors. Bottom: A detailed shot of the clean lines of the kitchen.

W

hen Norm and Leslie Wilson visited the Stonewater development on the shores of Okanagan Lake in Peachland, it was love at first sight.

The Vancouver couple had owned a vacation property for three years in the small community located just outside Kelowna. But there was a road lying between their home and the lake – not ideal for visits with their young grandson.

They wanted something that suited them better.

So when Stonewater’s lakefront location at the north end of Peachland caught the couple’s attention, their interest was piqued.

They decided to visit the show home.

“My wife fell in love with it immediately,” says Norm, adding she loved the kitchen, the finishing touches and the liberal use of glass. Not to mention the

C

Each home also has its own boat moorage, with a three-tonne electric lift — a big bonus with the Okanagan’s dwindling supply of private moorage.

200 feet of private sandy beach just outside the back door.

The deal was done within several hours, and the couple has happily owned their new home in the exclusive Stonewater community for three years.

“We’re all water people. The lake being what it is, it’s spectacular,” he says.

The Wilsons were the first buyers at Stonewater, a three-and-a-half-hour drive from Vancouver. Since then four more buyers, all from Alberta, have snatched up properties for between $1.4 and $1.6 million. By mid-February only three homes remained.

All are built with gorgeous finishing throughout, from the hardwood floors, to the granite countertops, to the wood and stone architecture, to the high-end stainless steel appliances, to the gas fireplace. The exterior is a mixture of cultured stone, timber and stucco.

“We tried to use materials that blended in with the Okanagan,” says Stonewater developer Rob Moyor.

The homes are built specifically to show off the crown jewel: Okanagan Lake. “You can see the lake from almost

Okanagan HOME Spring 2012 37

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38 40 Okanagan OkanaganHOME HOMESpring Spring2012 2012

Each unit has a full-on view of the water.

Clockwise from bottom left: The kitchen has tremendous storage, perfect for summer stays. Looking from the outside in on the deck, indoor/outdoor living is easy. Top: The master bath leaves none of the luxuries of home out.

anywhere in the home,” says Moyor. “Each unit has a full-on view of the water.”

The homes make ample use of large windows and high-end glass Slung® walls that allow a whole wall to slide open onto a large deck that’s finished with a built-in barbecue for uninterrupted views. Power bug screens keep insects outside where they belong.

Each home also has its own boat moorage, with a threetonne electric lift — a big bonus with the Okanagan’s dwindling supply of private moorage, says Moyor.

“The people who have purchased our homes, they’re executive families and these are all second homes for them,” explains Moyor. “This is not a summer rental resort type of property — it’s designed to be exclusive to the owners and their families.”

One of the three homes still on the market is the show home. The two-bedroom model has about 2,200 square feet of living space, with an open-concept design. On the main level, the Slung® wall opens wide onto a deck for a clear view of the lake and mountains. Upstairs is the master bedroom with an ensuite, and a self-contained guest suite that has its own bathroom.

Bathrooms are finished with a custom shower, soaker tub and heated tile floors.

The two other homes still on the market are yet to be finished to the buyers’ tastes. Both are four-level homes and can become one of four different floor plans — with square footage that ranges from 2,340 to 2,850, depending on how much living space the buyer wants. A more open floor plan would

mean a much more airy layout.

“They can have some pretty dramatic vaulted ceilings,” says Moyor.

All eight homes have a two-car garage that’s tucked right into the hillside, with a landscaped roof. Each one is heated and cooled with a fully paid geo-thermal system, meaning there is no lease cost.

Norm Wilson says his love of Stonewater stretches beyond the home itself. He says he’s also fond of the community. “Everybody here is absolutely spectacular.” H

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Okanagan HOME Spring 2012 39

Golf Course Living at

Mountain BLACK

L

ocally it is

known as one of the friendliest

golf courses in the area for players of all skill levels. Home owners of residences on the ridgelines surrounding the course are known to match that friendly feeling with neighborhood events that bring together the entire community.

40 Okanagan HOME Spring 2012 40 Okanagan HOME Spring 2012

The Black Mountain Golf Course Clubhouse is waiting for spring play. The Club features a spectacular deck overlooking the fairways, one of the largest in the Okanagan.

Inset opposite: The course is known for its playability and relaxed atmosphere, island greens add to the fun.

BY BOBBI-SUE MENARD

B

lack Mountain in Kelowna has become the destination for home owners looking for relaxed golf course living.

Black Mountain takes its name from its intimate view of Kelowna’s iconic Black Knight Mountain. Located just o of Hwy 33 towards Big White, Black Mountain is remarkably close to Kelowna courtesy of a twinned highway into town, and the neighborhood has attracted a large share of residents with local jobs all over the City of Kelowna.

The location is remarkably easy to access while remaining distinct.

Land development at Black Mountain follows the contours of ridgelines. The main road follows a draw in the natural topography. Early on, a curling drive winds up a ridge line to the east for fairway and mountain views. Further along the main road, the neighborhood moves west into an extended series of phased development, meant to capture the spectacular prospect of Okanagan Lake and the City of Kelowna below.

The eastern section of Black Mountain is The

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Photos This Page By Colin Jewall

Okanagan HOME Spring 2012 41 Okanagan HOME Spring 2012 41

Fairways. The topography is slightly steeper with blasted rock framing the roadway in sections. The lots are perfect for precisely perched walk out ranchers and home buyers who aren’t searching for extended yards. Below the lots overlooking the fairway is a small fallow valley waiting for the deluge that will fill its banks and create a beautiful new reservoir. The western ridge line is The Uplands and soon to be created is the Highlands. Broader lots lend themselves to homes for families of all sizes and active lifestyles. The Uplands and The Highlands will build out with hundreds (just under 200) of single family lots.

The infrastructure and development could only have been handled by a company with the resources for a long term commitment. Publicly traded Melcor Developments Ltd. has brought the project forward and presented home buyers in search of custom homes a host of open lot opportunities that can suit diverse demographic and lifestyle needs. Melcor has extensive experience in Alberta, but Kelowna is their British Columbia home office and the company has a strong interest in the community and its local projects.

Black Mountain also includes a mix of multi-family condo and town home projects. Townhomes and duplexes are strategically placed based on the topography of the land; the homes blend seamlessly into the community. Andrew Bruce, regional manager at Melcor explains, “We work to create the best use of the land and then allow builders and home buyers to go forward.”

Melcor has supported the lot development with several fully built family parks and walking trails that limn the lines of the forested hillsides and create the inter connective tissues of the community.

The architectural stylings at Black Mountain are a little bit Craftsman, small part West Coast and a big helping of Western Canadian comfort. The mix is created in the preference of preferred builders who create the show homes and buyers who choose plans and aesthetics that match the comforts of modern Canadian living. Timber and stone accents finish homes with deep coloured siding. Earthy greens and browns rise effortlessly in large lots designed for family homes. Most of the single family lots at Black Mountain qualify for basement suite permits and the large lots never feel crowded.

The development has attracted top Valley builders who know their core customer well. Okanagan Premium Builders knows exactly why they build at Black

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This Okanagan Dream Builders’ show home demonstrates their attention to detail.

Photos Courtesy Of Okanagan Dream Builders

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Okanagan HOME Spring 2012 43

Mountain, “We like the feel of it, the golf course, An Okanagan Premium Builders the views, the good size kitchen and great room featuring lots,” explains Greg Vinexposed beam detailing. Inset: ton a partner with OkaOkanagan Dream Builders’ attention nagan Premium.

“We to detail extends to the bathrooms. find a lot of our clients are very similar to us, independent working guys.”

Vinton and partners Fabio Guadio and Darcy Gibson put up homes designed to appeal to those who appreciate the lot sizes at Black Mountain. Their homes are almost always custom but almost all of them include a suspended slab garage for

Photos Courtesy Of Okanagan Dream Builders

44 Okanagan HOME Spring 2012

extra space for all things that come with a busy life.

Being on site working isn’t quite enough time at Black Mountain for Vinton, “We do have a fun time up here. I go golfing every men’s night. It’s a great course and it is comfortable to go into the clubhouse full of clients.”

Okanagan Dream Builders is the type of company that enjoys the detail work of home building. Their current show home is a study in carefully considered and installed details, from the timber framing to the interior stacked stone columns.

“A house is like a human, filled with personalized detail,” says Trent Tinkler with Okanagan Dream Builder.

Okanagan Dream Builder does custom work in partnership with the detailed orientated design firm Nesbitt Originals. At Black Mountain this translates to an impeccably relaxed take on luxury with generous use of top shelf materials mixed with room to live comfortably.

In keeping with their focus on custom homes, Tinkler and the team at Okanagan Dream tailor the details in a home to the buyer. “Ask questions, bring your ideas,” says Tinkler.

Visitors can develop their ideas at the Black Mountain Golf Course Clubhouse. The clubhouse menu offers a full menu of grill-based fare breakfast through supper.

The ambience is relaxed and during the summer the large deck seems to double the available space.

There are three to four show homes open regular hours and by appointment. Working within basic architectural guidelines, home buyers at Black Mountain can have the custom home of their choice. H

Okanagan HOME Spring 2012 45

Terrace

L a k e v i e w

46 Okanagan HOME Spring 2012

BY DAVE TRIFUNOV

A

imed at the first-time homebuyer eager to maximize an investment, Lakeview Terrace launched early in 2012. Contemporary semi-detached town homes comprise the development in West Kelow-

na Estates.

The three-bedroom townhomes combine 2,000 square feet of ideal indoor amenities with 1,000 sq. ft. of outdoor options.

There are two distinctive floor plans used in four triplexes and 12 duplexes.

In the kitchen, gas ranges, fridges, microwaves with hoods and dishwashers cater to accomplished entertainers or curious epicureans. Quartz countertops sit underneath custom flatpanel cabinetry with brushed nickel hardware. Stunning views outside and abundant natural light inside come from a mix of windows, including black metal, another Lakeview Terrace distinction.

Outside, Lakeview Terrace opted for organically inspired

building materials that meld with the natural environment.

Opposite: The modern You can enjoy year-round outdoor exteriors show off the living thanks to a natural slope multiple outdoor spaces of the townhomes. Below: that maximized the 3.6-acre site.

The top deck of each home Getting to know your neighis designed for an outdoor bours will be easy and rewarding kitchen and lounging in the with unique community gardens.

Okanagan sun.

Landscaped using native grasses and trees, what you see at home is what you see in the natural surroundings, steps from your door.

Views are something on display everywhere at Lakeview Terrace, with vistas of the valley and lake abundant. The homes’ rooftop decks are bathed in a north-south sun exposure, unique for an Okanagan multi-family development. On a clear day you can even see Big White.

Pathways and concourses link your neighbourhood with others in West Kelowna Estates. H

Okanagan HOME Spring 2012 47

Inset: Night magic, the outdoor living heats up in the evening.

48 Okanagan HOME Spring 2012

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West I L a k e

D r e a m s

Harbour

Photos By Shawn Talbot

50 Okanagan HOME Spring 2012

The Tuscan feel of the homes is demonstrated in the tiled roof lines, vaulted and columned entries with graceful arches.

I

BY DARCY NYBO

I

magine waking up and realizing you are a short walk away from your boat and a day on the lake. You can have that at a new home in West Harbour Kelowna.

Troika Developments together with Quadra Homes have created an extraordinary community. Located directly across from the Grand Okanagan off Westside Road, West Harbour is the last lakefront jewel of the Okanagan. It’s an amazing 40 acres on the lake, just ten minutes from Kelowna and minutes away from a shopping complex with a state-of-the-art six-screen movie cinema that anchors West Kelowna’s newest shopping centre.

Brad Klassen, a partner of Troika and West Harbour Kelowna, knew how great this development could be the moment he walked onto the property five years ago. “I knew it was the best site in the Okanagan for a residential development. The waterfront and the land itself have a wow factor. I could see myself living there.”

Klassen and his partners started working with First Nation families who owned the land. As it was once a meeting place for band members, it was important to keep a sense of community at West Harbour.

“At first we envisioned it being 1,500 condos,” explained Klassen.

“We were going to have high-rises and it would have been the first high-rise on native land in the area. Then the economy happened. In 2008 we went back to the drawing board because we realized largeOkanagan HOME Spring 2012 51

The well appointed kitchens include mosaic tile backsplash, under mount sinks and stainless steel appliances.

scale development was not relevant to today’s market.”

“We decided to offer 220 single-family homes with the same amenities. We still focused very much on the waterfront with almost every home having a lake view and every home having beach access and a boat slip,” he said. “Everyone also has access to a pool, tennis courts and a recreation centre. That, plus there are walking trails throughout the area.”

One of West Harbour’s slogans is, “Buy a boat slip and we’ll

throw in a house for free.” The marina at West Harbour has the newest and most advanced dock system in the Okanagan.

The start-of-the-art floating dock system, built by B.C. Dock and Marina, is considered to be the best system around.

The homes are designed to blend in with the land. “These homes have a Tuscan Mediterranean feel,” explains Klassen, “which is very suitable for this climate and location.” The homes start around $470,000 and range in size from 2,500 to 3,600 sq. ft. The interiors have Italian marble and hardwood floors. The tile roofs are quite remarkable with stucco and brick exteriors with wood/timber accents. Each home has an arched entryway and some even have a small tower. With granite countertops throughout, solid wood doors and deluxe fixtures, these homes have a touch of opulence without being extravagant. The homes are located on First Nations land, there is no HST or PTT. Although the land is on a 99-year lease, West Harbour has put in place a plan to counteract the decline of the lease value over the years. “We have a legacy fund so that every home sold on this project has money put into the legacy fund,” he explains. “As each home is purchased - a contribution is made into the fund. Over 99 years that fund accumulates and with a fairly conservative rate of return that fund will be worth one billion dollars at the end of 99 years.

Each home will have a share of that fund. The money is attached to a particular lot and house - it does not leave with the homeowner when they sell. As the value of the lease declines the value of the legacy fund increases.”

Approximately 60 percent of buyers to date are from the Okanagan. The remaining home owners are from Vancouver, Edmonton and Calgary and surrounding communities. Currently 20 homes are under construction and eight are completed and occupied. H

Suppliers Decking/Railing | FALCON RAILING AND SUPERDECK Multi-Slip Marina | BC DOCK & MARINA Outdoor Pool, Hot Tub | AQUASCAPE CUSTOM POOLS 52 Okanagan HOME Spring 2012

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Beautiful L

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The classic lines of the Mediterranean inspired home overlooking the lake and vineyard at Bonitas Winery.

Photos Courtesy of Bonitas

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he terroir of the Valley where it meets the lakeshore is limited in the Okanagan, and only a few estate wineries have a waterfront location. One of those wineries is Bonitas in Summerland. Fourteen acres of vineyards with a beautiful modern winery, tasting room and bistro are the commercial side of the operation. The timeless Mediterranean style home is the architectural icing on the cake for owners Lawrence Hopper and Diane Esslinger.

Living on a winery is an all encompassing lifestyle, “It is funny because the whole wine industry has a lot of romance attached to it,” remarks Diane. “I can be working by 5 am in the morning, but in the middle of the day I can be casual and entertain, then back to work. I don’t know of another job where you can have a glass wine in midday and then back to work.

The vineyard is planted on a former fruit orchard. Lawrence purchased the property in 1993 when he spotted the picturesque property perched on the rolling hillside. Lawrence worked with an original Nesbitt design and the 4000 square foot home was built in 1995. The home has fulfilled Lawrence’s

54 40 Okanagan HOME Spring 2012

initial vision, which had an initial inspiration from an Architectural Digest story. “I wanted this style and design because I never wanted the house to age, 20 years later and it still looks brand new.”

The vineyard came quickly after the new home; the old orchard was past its prime and Lawrence had no interest in replanting apple trees. After the vines reached maturity, the annual harvest went to other wineries. In 2008 Lawrence opened the winery as ‘hijas bonitas’ which means ‘beautiful daughters’ in Spanish. The name changed to Bonitas for ease of use and the business has rocketed to a solid place on the wine tour must-see list; a gratifying payment for all the 18 hour work days.

There are other perks of living on an estate winery. Bonitas has a full bistro with a Red Seal chef, Diane and Lawrence often grab lunch in the restaurant. If it all gets to be too much, the private beach is just down the hillside. The dock is a true escape says Diane, “I spend a lot of time on the dock, it is my little haven of peace. I take the dog with me and throw sticks in the water; I might even take some wine down there.” H

Okanagan HOME Spring 2012 55

Lifestyle

West Kelowna Redevelopment Plan

U

rban renewal can transform a community from its centre to its outer reaches. A vibrant downtown core is the beating heart of a city. Creating the right mix of local governance structures, urban renewal can allow businesses and residents to take basic

Register Now Show Home Open

city blocks and achieve transformation through new ventures, renovated or replaced buildings and a thriving sense of community.

The District of West Kelowna has come through the ďŹ rst few years of incorporation as a community with an eye to re-

Timeless Terraced Homes 3 Bedroom Townhomes from $329,900

April 7th

3623 Elliott Road, West Kelowna, BC

Dilworth Homes newest neighbourhood in the heart of Westbank Town Centre.

Gateway Urban Village .com 250.448.6306 This is not an offering for sale. Any such offering may only be made after filing a disclosure statement.

The Developer reserves the right to modify plans, features and specifications. E.&O

56 Okanagan HOME Spring 2012

vitalizing their downtown core. Downtown West Kelowna has been perceived to languish but is now seeing business make prudent investments in the West Kelowna business area. The possibilities of what can be accomplished in the delta between the split lanes of Hwy 97 are tantalizing and West Kelowna council has stepped up to the plate.

“There are numbers that show up in this year’s capital plan” says Mayor Doug Findlater of the 2012 budgeting process.

The capital plan was informed by the two year study and Revitalization Plan, which drew heavily on community involvement to develop the concepts. The vision of the plan has a 25 year time frame for a walkable community including a pedestrian main street, a mix of housing plus a range of businesses and services. wwTo entice new business, Findlater says many options are on the table including the possibility of changes to development cost charges in an effort to work more closely with developers. New buildings could have between four and six stories in mixed use applications.

The signature element of the plan is a future major shift in traffic patterns along Hwy 97. The idea is to turn Dobbin Road (the northbound lane of Hwy 97) into a four to six lane highway. The current southbound lanes of traffic (Hwy 97) would return to a Main Street status with green principles in play including enhanced pedestrian and bike options.

It is an ambitious goal that would spur dynamic change.

“Every downtown redevelopment has challenges,” admits Findlater. “We want that kind of mixed use development in downtown West Kelowna.”

That kind of focus is music to the ears of Karen Thompson, Executive Director of the Westbank Chamber of Commerce.

Thompson brings real insight to urban redevelopment and its impact on residents in the community; she has extensive background with the Urban Development Institute.

“Communities need a downtown for citizens to interact and come together. Vibrant downtowns foster a feeling of community and belonging,” says Thompson.

Thompson says business members of the West Kelowna Chamber are looking to the future and stepping forward with planned investments in new development. There is hope with the new plan that the overall development process will be speedier. The Hwy 97 couplet is not expected to change for some time says Thompson, but regardless the Chamber is anticipating the downtown becoming more user friendly and livable.

The first changes are coming to downtown West Kelowna this summer, as Council moves to put the first pieces of the plan in place based on the budget. The decision to embrace the future has been made says Findlater, “We have a list of things we are doing.” H Okanagan HOME Spring 2012 57

For Detailed Locations Go To www.OkanaganHome.com

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* + / . , '& 1. Turtle Mountain 2. Predator Ridge 3. Crystal Heights at The Lakes 4. Wilden 5. Bridges at Glenview Pond 6. Black Mountain 7. Southwind at Sarsons 8. West Harbour 9. Lakeview Terrace 10. Stonewater on Lake Okanagan 11. Canyon Desert 12. The Cottages at Osoyoos Lake 13. Spirit Ridge

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ADVERTISEMENT

The Residences at Spirit Ridge

C

onceived in 2003 by Bellstar Hotels & Resorts and the OIBDC, Spirit Ridge has been transformed into the region’s top rated resort based on independent Trip Advisor ratings. And it’s about to get even better...

Nestled on a sun-drenched hillside overlooking Lake Osoyoos and the Sonora Dunes Golf Course, The Residences at Spirit Ridge Vineyard Resort & Spa is the acclaimed resort’s 3rd phase of development and the first to offer homes designed for year-round living.

The enclave of forty-four luxurious Casitasstyle homes showcase the dramatic views of the lake, mountains, orchards, vineyards and desert landscapes that surround the masterplanned resort community.

Desert-inspired two and three-bedroom layouts feature desirable single level living with gourmet kitchens, spacious double Masters, double car garages, and fold away glass living room walls that transition onto expansive outdoor verandas that celebrate Canada’s warmest climate.

In addition to the use of the resort’s 4.5 star rated amenities and services including boat slips and beachfront access, own-

ers at The Residences enjoy exclusive use of their very own private infinity pool complimented by an outdoor oasis lounging deck, hot tub, fitness centre, sports court and gated access. Starting in the low $400,000’s, The Residences were released in September 2011 with record-setting sales for the region in 2011 - a testament to the tremendous value and quality being offered under the guidance of Bellstar, one of the most respected developers in Western Canada.

Bellstar is constructing two adult lifestyle, residential resorts in the South Okanagan: The Residences at Spirit Ridge and homes along the fairway of Canyon Desert Golf Resort in Oliver BC. Construction is slated to be completed this fall. Bellstar is creating unique communities that capture the very best of the enviable Okanagan lifestyle.

To learn more contact Curt Jansen – Director of Sales Phone: 250-495-2684 Email: curtj@bellstar.ca Visit www.OwnSpiritRidge.ca to register and receive information & updates.

Only 44 desert-inspired homes will be made available at The Residences at Spirit Ridge - an exclusive collection featuring indoor/outdoor living, ALL with spectacular views perched above the Okanagan’s top rated resort in the heart of Canada’s wine country.

It’s Time to Cash In and Start Living FROM THE LOW $400,000’S

This is not an offering for sale as an offering can only be made by Information Statement. Illustration is for marketing purposes only and may differ from finished product. The developer reserves the right to change or modify the offer without prior notice. E&OE.

Sales Centre: 1200 Rancher Creek Rd. Osoyoos BC

1 -8 7 7 -3 1 3 -9 4 6 3

www.OwnSpiritRidge.ca Okanagan HOME Spring 2012 59

Architecture

The Bo.ttega is a brand new 10 bedroom retreat in South East Kelowna, designed by New Town Services. This modern farm inn is a sophisticated part of the agri-tourism movement. The Bo.ttega project was sensitive to the environmental priorities of the client, the surrounding forest and the design value needed to create an exclusive destination.

Photos courtesy of New Town Services

BY DARCY NYBO

ESTABLISH

AS EN S E

OF

PLACE

60 Okanagan HOME Spring 2012

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believe where people live is more of an expression of themselves than where they work and play,” says Patrick McCusker of New Town Services. Statements like that show the true nature of the team at New Town Services.

New Town Services is a unique combination of New Town Planning Services Inc., established by Keith Funk, in 1997, and New Town Architecture Inc., established by Patrick McCusker (MAIBC) in conjunction with Keith Funk, in 1999. It’s a full service consulting team that offers land use planning, urban design, architectural design and public process administration.

“We offer over 20 years of experience primarily in residential and multi-family,” explains McCusker. “It’s a specialty that is sometimes not taken very seriously. To have a firm that specializes in that is unique. Multi-family is a very specialized art form. We spend a lot of time researching what is esthetically pleasing and also what the market needs for providing housing. Eight-five per cent of architecture is housing; it’s not all glamourous museums.”

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ven when doing floor plans for condo projects, the New Town team puts themselves into the future owners’ shoes. They understand the importance of personal space and do research to help clients understand size and scale.

Through land use planning and urban design, New Town Services establishes a sense of place; they look for local character and keep plans in line with that character.

At the same time they satisfy the complex needs specific to the community and surrounding environment.

“We start from the source, the actual land, and analyze the topography of the land to give the client a realistic picture of what they can build,” says McCusker. “It allows us to approach the sustainable aspect of the land as well. We don’t just go out with a backhoe and level the land; we use the land in our architectural designs. We don’t want our clients going in with the wrong pre-conceived notion of what can be done with the land. Environmental impact is important.”

New Town also works with civil engineers for the layout out of the roads and utilities. They model a residential plan and minimize the amount of excavation and fill needed on the land. This is also important when doing a resort development to ensure you maintain as much of the natural surroundings as possible.

With New Town they take their design seriously, from the ground up. H

The Evolution of Outdoor Living

1-855-899-8290 www.shadesailscanada.com Western Canada and International Sales shadesailscanada@telus.net

Eastern Canada Sales shadesailscanada@csolve.net

Okanagan HOME Spring 2012 61

Artist Pr ofile

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t takes decades for an artist to reach the status of national treasure. Okanagan resident and artist, Daphne Odjig has indisputably met that mark. Odjig’s work hangs in galleries and museums worldwide, has been the subject of Canadian stamps and she has received the Order of Canada. The nonagenarian is considered to be a charter member of the Native Group of Seven, a group of artists who originated the Woodland style of painting.

Odjig was born in 1919 on Wikwemikong on Manitoulin Island. In 1945 Odjig moved to British Columbia, and with the emotional support of her first husband she pursued creating art which she had enjoyed since childhood. In the lifetime that followed, despite the massive social barriers to First Nations’ art, Odjig persevered.

Her early work reflects the demands of the time; there is no hint of her culture in drawings and paintings from the early years of her work. Those influences took time to develop and Odjig has been quoted as saying, “My personal experiences enter everything that I paint.”

In the 1970’s Odjig was part of the movement that definitively launched First Nations art into the Canadian collective conscious. She was partners in an active and successful gallery that had a large print making component. The public opened its arms to the results.

The catalogue of Odjig work is a colour story with an evident love of people, place and culture. In past interviews Odjig has said she sees her paintings as, ‘a celebration of life.’

Odjig’s work can be found in the Okanagan at Hambleton Galleries in Kelowna. H 62 Okanagan HOME Spring 2012

The captivating work of Daphne Odjig. Her art resides in top collections around the world. A member of the Order of Canada, Odjig is considered a member of the First Nations Group of Seven.

Green Housing LED LIGHTING KIM JONES, RESIDENTIAL ENERGY ADVISOR

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hey may be a new face in your local light socket soon, but it’s technology that’s been around a long time. Lightemitting diode (LED) light bulbs have been around since the 1960’s but until now the cost has limited them to on/off indicators in electronics and within recent years, holiday lighting.

But the many advantages of LEC lighting, together with costs coming down, positions LED lighting to transform home lighting over the next few years. You can already find an assortment of LED indoor and outdoor products in the marketplace, both as standalone bulbs and as complete lighting fixtures.

LEDs consume very little power. An LED bulb requires only 12.5 Watts of electricity to provide the same light output as a 60 Watt traditional incandescent bulb. LEDs are 90 percent efficient, which means only a small proportion of electricity is wasted producing heat. Traditional incandescent bulbs are only 5 to 10 percent efficient. LEDs are:

Long lasting – ENERGY STAR® LEDs last up to four times as long as compact fluorescent lights (CFLs) and 25 times longer than typical incandescent bulbs.

Safer- LEDs do not easily break and produce little heat which reduces the risk of burns and fire. LEDs are mercury free.

Cost-effective- The cost of new LED bulbs has gone down considerably in the last few years plus they last longer and consume less electricity. FortisBC and other utilities often offer both in-store and mail-in rebates.

To make the most of LEDs, start by replacing bulbs in heavily used areas of your home like your kitchen. If you’re building a new home, you can also receive incentives from Fortis BC for this and other energy saving measures.

When purchasing lighting, you should look for the ENERGY STAR® label. This identifies that the products have been tested to meet operating, reliability and energy efficiency criteria. H Kim Jones works with FortisBC PowerSense as a Residential Energy Advisor. Find additional information about energy efficient lighting at fortisbc.com/powersense.

Okanagan HOME Spring 2012 63

Builder Profile

SitkaLog

Homes Photos Courtesy Of Sitka Log Homes

64 Okanagan HOME Spring 2012

BY DARCY NYBO

S

itka Log Homes has a rich history in B.C. Founder John Johnson started building log homes in 1969 and was one of the pioneers of the Cariboo in log construction. He and his partner were the first to build a log home on site, number it, tag it, take it apart and ship for reconstruction. Then in 1985 Johnson started Sitka Log Homes, 5 km north of 100 Mile House. Johnson retired in March of 2011 and has handed over the reigns to his son Brad.

Sitka builds approximately 20 homes a year now; however, back in the early 2000s they were hovering around 40 to 50.

Walter Bramsleven is the GM of Sitka Log Homes and has been there for 16 years. He’s seen changes over the years; however, one thing that has stayed the same is their commitment to quality.

“There are basically three types of log and timber frame building that we do,” explains Bramsleven. “Timber frame is self-explanatory. When it comes to log homes there are conventional log homes with log walls about 10 feet high, with a loft above. Then there is the hybrid log home, where instead of having log walls, the structure is supported in a log post and

beam style with regular frame walls in between the posts. This allows A residential kitchen with ironfor more flexibility strapped timber frame arched with interior and extebeams in the ceiling. Bottom: A rior design.” traditional exposed beam log home Log post and beam family room. homes have taken off over the last 15 years, with the majority of their business being hybrid log homes. “We are doing lifecycle analysis right now on log homes from cradle to grave,” says Bramsleven. “Compared to conventional homes, ecologically they are much more environmentally friendly. The carbon emissions and landfill issues simply aren’t there when you use logs. There is no recent data available; however, older tests show log homes can be up to 40 percent more efficient than conventional built homes. They are cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.”

Sitka’s projects range from small to large and are quite impressive. “We do smaller jobs like gazebos,” says Bramsleven. “We’ve had to diversify in order to survive and stand out in this economy.”

Some of their larger projects include the one in Telluride, Colorado with seven multiunit complexes. In Salt Lake City they built three lodges for the 2002 Winter Olympic Games. They’ve also built the BC Canada house in Torino, Italy for the Olympics.

With such diversity in their clients needs, Bramsleven keeps a close eye on communication. “We need to constantly keep in touch,” he explains. “In many ways, it’s become easier because of the way we communicate today.”

The advancement in communication technology has allowed Bramsleven to do conferences for architects in Italy and for architects and engineers in Austria. Despite the technology today, Bramsleven notes that most log homes are born in someone’s kitchen with a pencil and paper.

“I tell my clients to give me everything they’ve got; to put all the things they like about a log home into a scrapbook and give it to me. Once the plans are done and the budget agreed upon, we start the scheduling. From there they decide if they want to be their own general contractor or if they want to hire a general contractor. We stay in constant communication during that process.” H

Okanagan HOME Spring 2012 65

M at e r i a l s

Windows The cut away diagram of a ThermoPlus window shows how the fiberglass/vinyl hybrid frame offers superior energy performance. The multi-­chambered frame flexes with the movements of the home, doesn’t require extensive reinforcement and has an extended life span.

BY DARCY NYBO

E

ngineers love them, designers want them and homeowners swear by them. They are ThermoPlus windows and doors and they are fast becoming popular industry wide, especially with building envelope specifiers.

Al Godin, commercial sales coordinator for Euroline Windows, has been in the window industry for over 26 years. In the first 15 years, he watched the wood window industry grow smaller and smaller as people moved over to vinyl. Now he’s seeing another switch, only this time it’s over to ThermoPlus.

ThermoPlus has the ability to move and shift with the house. “Windows and doors made from fiberglass only come painted and have mechanically connected corners on the sash and the frame,” explains Godin. “A building is like a living entity and they move and shift from night to day. Mechanically connected corners change and perform less over time. With the ThermoPlus this doesn’t happen.”

Euroline’s supplier for ThermoPlus is Rehau, who literally have offices in every continent on the globe. “They have found a way to marry fiberglass and vinyl together, which allows us to weld the corners and also apply our acrylic foil materials to the doors and windows. These foil materials come in a wide 66 Okanagan HOME Spring 2012

variety of colours and wood grain finishes,” says Godin.

Then there’s the added bonus of their environmental performance. ThermoPlus is 2.5 times more efficient than aluminum windows and about 25 percent more efficient than vinyl.

It also has a greater life cycle. It will possibly never need to be replaced; standard windows have a life cycle of 5 - 10 years.

Vinyl windows need steel reinforcing because they expand and contract. Steel creates a thermal bridge, which makes it less energy efficient. ThermoPlus is so strong it doesn’t need the steel reinforcement ThermoPlus is also passive house certified. The term passive house (Passivhaus in German) refers to the rigorous and voluntary Passivhaus standard for energy efficiency in a building, reducing its ecological footprint. The Passivhaus standard is designed to cut energy consumption by 90 percent. A passive house is primarily heated by solar gain and people gain - in other words - heated by the sun beating down and the people that are in the building. Electrical devices also create heat and these passive designed homes are built to use that heat.

A typical home owner using ThermoPlus can save over $1,500 a year in heating and cooling costs, while reducing carbon emissions by over 3.5 tonnes with the reduced energy requirements in making the windows and maintaining the house. H

Planning

Begin Your Pool in the Spring A classic pool installation

by Valley Pool and Spa.

BY DAVID WYLIE

T

here’s more to building a pool than digging a hole and filling it with water. Gene Brown, whose company Valley Pool and Spa specializes in luxury pools, offers some tips on how to create an oasis in your yard – and what to expect during the process.

STEP 1: PLANNING Once you’ve decided to put a pool on your property, the first step is to bring in a professional to talk about design and needs, says Brown.

“Design’s a huge part of it,” he says. “That’s the first thing: work out the design. It all comes back to details. If you take the time and plan it our properly, it’ll be a success.”

One of the first questions to ask is what’s the function? Will you be swimming laps or simply splashing around with family?

Different designs fit with different houses.

“You don’t want people not to enjoy it,” he says. “It’s a big commitment.”

The pool may be the centrepiece, but you have to plan what you want the property to look like around the water. “People have to consider landscaping,” he says. Be sensitive to the architecture and style of the house, and make the pool blend in.

Some houses are formal and some are casual; take that into account, says Brown.

“You don’t want to overbuild and you don’t want to underbuild.”

Finally, don’t forget to count the cost. A pool costs $40,000 and up, depending on the size and scope of the project.

STEP 2: CONSTRUCTION Before an excavator rolls onto the property, there are permits to be had – a process that the builder should take care of, says Brown. “Some people try to shortcut that – I advise strongly against it,” he says.

Engineers should also be brought in to make sure the ground is suitable for a pool.

Once that’s done, shovels slice into the ground.

“During the process there’s going to be dirt flying,” he says.

“It’s messy. There will be landscaping to do…. Construction is construction,” says Brown.

A standard pool can take two to three weeks to build. More elaborate designs can take more like three to four months.

Once the pool’s in, there will be some landscaping to do.

STEP 3: ENJOY Whether you’ve chosen a simple pool where the kids can play Marco Polo or an elaborate design with a vanishing edge where you can swim up to the poolside bar and have a drink, the payoff from all the planning and construction is soaking in the water. H Okanagan HOME Spring 2012 67

ADVERTISEMENT

Bringing The Best Of Outdoors - Indoors

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etractable screens are a simple way to enjoy the best of summer without letting insects into your home.

Take a look at how new screen technology is bringing a breath of fresh air to homes.

Retractable screens remain out of sight until you need them, restoring your complete view to the outdoors and preserving the look and design of your doorways and windows. The mesh retracts into a discreet housing which means you don’t have to cover your view during the times of year when you don’t need the screens.

Phantom Screens in Kelowna have recently launched Legacy - a brand new retractable door screen. Created to give you ultimate control, the Legacy retractable door screen is easy to use, whisper quiet and designed to make for easy summer living.

The new Legacy retractable door screen features the latest innovative technology – including an ergonomic and simple to operate Latch & Release handle as well as built in lubricant that helps maintain easy movement of the slidebar across the door frame. The Latch and Release handle automatically latches the screen in the closed position to prevent it from

opening in breezy conditions.

Legacy retractable screens fit a wide variety of door types including single and double doors, out-swing and in-swing doors and sliding patio doors.

To preserve the aesthetics of a doubleFrench doorway, two Legacy door screens can be mounted to the door frame, one on each side. To operate the screens, the slidebars are pulled to the center of the opening and held in place with the Latch and Release handle.

And it’s not just for new homes. Legacy works equally well on existing homes too – making it perfect for retrofitting as part of a home’s renovation. For those of you who already have the Phantom Professional Series door screen which is closed by magnets, you can now upgrade to the new system by purchasing a Smooth Control Upgrade. It’s incredible value and will really enhance the operation of your existing screens.

Want to find out more? Call Phantom Screens in Kelowna to arrange for a FREE estimate and receive 10 percent off your order if you mention Okanagan HOME Magazine.

Open up your living space Phantom LegacyTM retractable screen doors feature an integrated Latch & Release handle for ultimate and smooth control.

Legacy will bring a breath of fresh air to you – and your home.

Call 1-888-PHANTOM today!

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Products shown: Legacy™ Retractable Door Screen and Serene™ Retractable Window Screen 68 Okanagan HOME Spring 2012

Resources RENOVATION ADVENTURE Dannburg Flooring | www.dannburgflooring.com | Page 42 Kathleen Hamel Interiors | www.kathleenhamelinteriors.ca | Page 57 Stone Quest Granite | www.stonequestgranite.com | Page 48 Synergy Landscape Design Ltd. | www.synergylandscape.com | Page 10 Valley Pool & Spa | www.valleypoolandspa.com | Page 8

STONEWATER ON LAKE OKANAGAN Dannburg Flooring | www.dannburgflooring.com | Page 42 Discovery Glass | www.discoveryglass.ca | Page 11

WEST HARBOUR LAKE DREAMS Aquascape Custom Pools | www.aquascapecustompools.ca | Page 55 BC Dock & Marina | www.bcdockandmarina.com | Page 61 Falcon Railing and Superdeck | www.falconrailing.com | Page 43 Renovation Adventure Page 18

Okanagan HOME Spring 2012 69

Accessorize

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elax and make a statement in your garden this year.

Clockwise from above: Ventura deep seating swivel rocker chat group; available at Beachcomber Home Leisure, Kelowna. Top right: Glass fiber reinforced concrete planters are incredibly durable. Contempra Square Planters; Kelowna Landscape Centre, BURNCO Rock Products. Center Right: Roma gunmetal seating; Beachcomber Home Leisure, Kelowna. Bottom Right: Classic Wicker, Ethan Allen, Kelowna. Bottom Left: Glass fiber reinforced concrete Elan square planter, Kelowna Landscape Centre.

GARDEN OUTDOOR

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70 Okanagan HOME Spring 2012