SPRUCE Winter 2022 by Page One Publishing

VICTORIA’S HOME & D E S I G N MAGAZINE

WINTER 2022

RENO ISSUE BEFORE & AFTER

Complete kitchen, bathroom and bedroom transformations

BIG IDEA

Creative Storage

Small fixes + easy upgrades YOU CAN DO IT!

DIY painting tips from the pros

Renovating a heritage home

TWO HOMES, ONE CONDO

reno success stories

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Cover Home A dated builder-basic condo gets a stunning overhaul

sprucemagazine.ca

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RENO ISSUE

WINTER 2022

CONTENTS 8 EDITOR’S LETTER Holding on and letting go — Find the inspiration to manage your own renovation.

12 INTRODUCTION The 10 key steps involved in a successful home overhaul.

58 IN MEMORIAM Ryan Goodman, general manager of Victoria’s Aryze Developments.

INSPIRATION

ESSENTIALS

Cohesive 30 The Reno

Elaborate 48 An Finish

B Y DANIELLE POPE

B Y KIM PEMBERTON

B Y SUSAN HOLLIS

Reimagined 16 Farmhouse

It’s a brand-new era for a renovated 1940s rural property on the Saanich Peninsula.

BIG IDEAS Capitalize on the space you already have with these storage and furnishing ideas. B Y CAROLYN CAMILLERI

A SPLASH OF DIY

The seamless renovation of a Highlands property in two phases.

BEING PROACTIVE Make home inspections part of maintenance, to set repair and renovation priorities.

LABOUR OF LOVE Preserving character and getting the updates you want in an older home. B Y CAROLYN CAMILLERI

ACCOMMODATING DESIGN How to modify your main living area to fit your lifestyle. B Y NESSA PULLMAN

TAKING THE CHILL OFF Expert tips to guide a home heating upgrade. B Y SHANNON MONEO

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The complete transformation of an Esquimalt condo into a dream home.

B Y SHANNON MONEO

An expert’s approach to interior painting for a professionalgrade finish. B Y LINDA BARNARD

DETAILS

IT’S THE LITTLE THINGS Traditional or modern options for fast, easy changes that can brighten your space. B Y CAROLYN CAMILLERI

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A home renovation shouldn’t actually take your breath away.

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VICTORIA’S HOME & D E S I G N MAGAZINE

PUBLISHERS Lise Gyorkos,

Georgina Camilleri

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Joanne Sasvari EDITORS Carolyn Camilleri, Danielle Pope PRODUCTION MANAGER Jennifer Kühtz DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY Jeffrey Bosdet DIGITAL MARKETING MANAGER Amanda Wilson LEAD GRAPHIC DESIGNER Janice Hildybrant ASSOCIATE GRAPHIC DESIGNER Caroline Segonnes MARKETING COORDINATOR Claire Villaraza ADVERTISING COORDINATOR Lauren Ingle PROOFREADER Lenore Hietkamp ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS Doug Brown,

Cynthia Hanischuk, Brenda Knapik

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Linda Barnard, Susan Hollis,

David Lennam, Shannon Moneo, Kim Pemberton, Nessa Pullman

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Dasha Armstrong CONTRIBUTING AGENCIES Getty Images p. 14, 44, 56;

Living4Media p. 22, 25; Unsplash p. 39, 54

GENERAL INQUIRIES info@sprucemagazine.ca LETTERS TO THE EDITOR letters@sprucemagazine.ca SUBSCRIBE TO SPRUCE subscriptions@sprucemagazine.ca ADVERTISING INQUIRIES sales@sprucemagazine.ca ONLINE sprucemagazine.ca INSTAGRAM @sprucemagazinevictoria FACEBOOK sprucevictoria TWITTER @sprucevictoria

ON THE COVER

Every inch of this two-bedroom, one-bathroom condo was redesigned to suit a modern lifestyle (page 48). Photo by Jeffrey Bosdet

Victoria, BC owes much of its personality and appeal to the unique homes that line its streets.

Spruce magazine is published by Page One Publishing 580 Ardersier Road, Victoria, BC V8Z 1C7 T 250-595-7243 info@pageonepublishing.ca pageonepublishing.ca ADVERTISE IN SPRUCE MAGAZINE

Spruce is Victoria’s home and design magazine. For advertising info, please call us at 250-595-7243 or email sales@sprucemagazine.ca. Printed in Canada by Transcontinental Printing. Ideas and opinions expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of Page One Publishing Inc. or its affiliates; no official endorsement should be inferred. The publisher does not assume any responsibility for the contents of any advertisement and any and all representations or warranties made in such advertising are those of the advertiser and not the publisher. No part of this magazine may be reproduced, in all or part, in any form — printed or electronic — without the express permission of the publisher. The publisher cannot be held responsible for unsolicited manuscripts and photographs. Canadian Publications Mail Product Sales Agreement 41295544

Buyers and sellers, find your character homes at

w w w.V I C TO R I AC H A R AC T E R H O M E S . c o m Andrew Hobbs* 250-884-2766 *Personal Real Estate Corp. | The Condo Group Real Estate Ltd.

SPRUCE | WINTER 2022

EDITOR’S LETTER

Robyn Wildman Top rated in Customer Service Multiple MLS® Award Winner Why work with Robyn? “Robyn has a depth of knowledge that she shared as the market was changing. She is very quick to respond to questions. I appreciated her ability to provide information looking at all options and share her expertise. I sold and bought and Robyn was calm, confident and knowledgeable. I recommend her and would go to her again.” - S.B.

BUYING OR SELLING REAL ESTATE CALL

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When Life Leads the Way

here are times in life that demand a renovation. Having a baby, blending a family, moving in an inThis special edition law or even getting a dog — these moments draft the blueprints of change over our lives, and home becomes is designed to make the frame over which we stretch it. the reno process Not long ago, it was fashionable for a family to simply relocate when it made sense, trading one space for as invigorating and another like a pair of shoes that had become too small. stress-free as it can Yet, with the Island’s tightening real estate market and be. Let this issue act limited options to sift through, more people now opt to stay put. That means transforming a home to meet new as a support through needs, even those previously unimagined. the stages of your When I chat with families about the changes they’ve made to their homes, I’m struck by how often people will own renovation. say a space “felt” right but didn’t work for them at all. There’s something about the intrinsic energy of a home that welcomes us in and invites us to imagine what’s possible: what can you see within these walls? Often, it takes the vision of a great designer to dream up such prospects. Other times, it takes a dedicated homeowner willing to take a chance on change. In this issue of Spruce, you’ll see firsthand how some folks faced down the business end of change to create serious design modifications in the name of progress. For one family, that meant completely transforming a heritage farmhouse into a modern home that paid homage to its rural roots. For another couple, it was altering the interior design of their condo to bring their personal style to life through elaborate finishes. People have forged new rooms into their homes while others have repainted spaces, added mini offices or even changed the location of a bathroom. Some have worked to understand environmental restrictions and heritage designations to meet modern standards. All the while, some have sought the steadfast advice of experts, while others have enlisted their own background experience. This special edition of Spruce is designed to make the reno process as invigorating and stress-free as it can be. Let this issue act as a support through the stages of your own renovation, with sections dedicated to Inspiration (like “Big Ideas”), Essentials (see “Taking the Chill Off”) and Details (like working with strata bylaws and “Small Fixes”). Whether you’re considering undertaking a few tweaks to your current space or facing a major overhaul to make your home work for your family, take heart in knowing others have carved a sturdy path. These pages are here to help you through your own big changes, especially when life leads the way. Read on — and may the renos be ever in your favour.

Need more inspiration for your reno? See how West Coast design has caught national attention at the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria’s upcoming show: “The Heart of the House: Art & the West Coast Modern Home,” running from January to May 2023.

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SPRUCE | WINTER 2022

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ILLUMINATE YOUR PERSONAL PARADISE

Don’t let dark winter nights hide your gardens. Light up the night — and your home — with landscape lighting. Landscape lighting is a quick and easy addition to your home that increases property value, curb appeal, ambiance, and safety. By setting lighting on a smart timer, you can schedule your lights to be on when you leave for work, return from work, and off when you’re away to save energy. Extend the time you can spend in your garden and make your home even more welcoming in the dark winter months. Wes-Tech Irrigation is Vancouver Island’s expert in landscape lighting and all the associated accessories. We carry the best brands in landscape lighting such as Kichler, Alliance, and Hydro Rain. We carry real brass fixtures that hold up in the wet, salty west coast climate. With great warranties, durable products, and high-quality materials, you can’t go wrong with Wes-Tech’s selection.

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WELCOME to the Spruce magazine Reno Issue

Find out how this ensuite was renovated to add space for luxury items, including a large walk-in shower and two-sink vanity. (page 30).

SPRUCE | WINTER 2022

aybe it’s that dripping tap, stained carpet or awkward pinch point that has been bothering you for ages. Perhaps you’ve had a big change in your life — a new baby moving in or an adult child moving out, for instance. Or maybe you just woke up one day and realized you simply cannot live one more minute with that hideous formica countertop. Whatever the reason, the need to renovate comes to all of us eventually. And with more of us choosing not to move in this uncertain housing market, now is a good time to invest in the roof that is Read about retaining a home’s heritage already over your head. status by restoring the exterior while Of course, all that time we spent modernizing the interior, as in this at home during the pandemic had kitchen from the Fernwood home featured on page 40. already inspired many of us to make our living spaces more, well, livable. We added home offices for ourselves and laneway houses for the in-laws, improved soundproofing, installed media rooms and increased storage spaces. We spent a lot of money doing all this — and we plan to spend still more. According to the fourth annual renovation survey by the online home service marketplace HomeStars, we spent more on renos in 2021 than in previous years ($13,000 on average, as compared to $8,000 the year before), and we plan to spend almost double that in the next year or so. A renovation can be as simple and inexpensive as a new coat of paint. Or it can be a complete overhaul from cellar to rafters and everything in between. Whatever changes you are considering for your home, this special renovation issue of Spruce has you covered with expert advice, topical trends and dreamy ideas. Welcome home.

STRENGTH & QUALITY

STEPS TO RENO SUCCESS

Every reno is different, but every reno should follow a plan and a process. Before you start yours, here is a basic guideline of what to do — and when.

1. MAKE A PLAN

3. HIRE A CONTRACTOR

This is the fun part, where you flip through magazines and browse décor websites to come up with your dream design. Assess what needs to be done and make sure you have enough time and budget to finish the job. Consider working with a designer — hiring a professional will help both in perfecting your design and in ensuring you get the right contractors to bring it to life.

If you enjoy getting your hands dirty, decide which projects you can safely DIY. Otherwise, research and hire a contractor to do the job. Make sure the contract clearly defines the scope of work and that your contractor is fully insured — otherwise you may be on the hook if workers damage your home or, worse, injure themselves.

2. SET A BUDGET This is not the fun part, but it is essential. Determine how much you are comfortable spending, be realistic about what your project will cost and plan for an extra 10 to 20 per cent in case of the unexpected.

4. SECURE PERMITS AND MATERIALS Every municipality has its own permitting process. If you don’t nail down all your permits before construction begins, you can face delays, fines or even lawsuits. Once the permits are in place and contracts signed, you can start ordering material such as lumber or drywall.

info@green-island-builders.com

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SPRUCE | WINTER 2022

5. START THE DEMOLITION

6. RAISE THE WALLS

If you are adding space, moving walls or replacing features like a kitchen island, you will need to tear things down before you can build them up. This is a much bigger undertaking than many homeowners anticipate, and it requires both a permit and a large bin for the waste. Beware that older buildings may contain toxic materials like asbestos-laced insulation and lead-based paint. And consider hiring a company that will salvage as much material as possible to keep it out of the landfill.

Before you can do the pretty stuff, you need to make sure your basics are in place, and that means your walls need to be built (this is known as structural carpentry), any windows punched out and all the HVAC, electricals, plumbing and insulation installed. Then you can put up the drywall.

7. TAKE CARE OF THE DETAILS Once the walls are up, you can work on the fine carpentry — baseboards, moulding, window trim and built-in cabinetry, breakfast nooks and bookcases.

Plan ahead. With some renovations, you can continue living in your home. With kitchen and bathroom renovations, staying at home can be more challenging.

8. PAINT WALLS, INSTALL FLOORS There is some debate among contractors about which should be done first — painting the walls or installing the flooring — but both should be done at this stage. In general, it’s good to leave the flooring as late as possible in the process so it doesn’t get damaged while other work is being carried out.

9. WORK ON THE OUTSIDE If you are planning to add a sunroom, deck, outdoor kitchen or swimming pool, this is a good time to do it. This is also when you should install your gutters and siding, or fix up your front porch.

10. FINISHING TOUCHES Finally, it’s time for the final touches that make your house truly your home: lighting, backsplashes, hardware, window coverings, paint touchups and, of course, placing your furniture and hanging your art.

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SPRUCE | WINTER 2022

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INSPIRATION Ideas that inspire a renovation can come from anywhere. Inspiration starts as a visual activity but ultimately it is about how something makes us feel — and how we want our homes to feel: fresh, light, rich, soft, open, elegant.

FARMHOUSE REIMAGINED It’s a brand-new era for a renovated 1940s rural property on the Saanich Peninsula.

BIG IDEAS

A SPLASH OF DIY

Capitalize on the space you already have with these storage and furnishing ideas.

A expert’s approach to interior painting for a professional-grade finish.

SPRUCE | WINTER 2022

FARMHOUSE REIMAGINED AN EXTENSIVE RURAL RENOVATION BRINGS A 1940S EQUESTRIAN FARM INTO A NEW ERA. BY DANIELLE POPE | PHOTOS BY DASHA ARMSTRONG

hen Elizabeth learned she was pregnant, she and her husband knew it was time to move to the Island to be closer to family. The pair had been based in Alberta but had travelled extensively due to Elizabeth’s equestrian career in show jumping, participating in major competitions, including the 2016 Olympics. It was no surprise to anyone that the perfect home for this growing family would be a 10-acre equestrian farm on the Saanich Peninsula. Their dream was to lay down roots and launch their own business, and the property glowed with promise. But a few challenges with the existing 1940s farmhouse needed to be addressed. “The property had a beautiful barn and pastoral area, which was very appealing to us, but we were planning on doing a small reno — there were little things that didn’t work, like for the laundry, you had to go outside to another room,” says Elizabeth. The house had been built for another era, with small rooms and dark corners restricting its function. One bathroom was scabbed on decades ago, and the space was disjointed, with a dated kitchen and living room. Still, the family wanted to keep heritage where possible and not make unnecessary changes. That’s where Danielle Keogan, principal of Maverick Designs, and her team came in. Beyond the request for an improved laundry, the crew identified the need for light, a more functional layout, increased square footage and outbuildings to suit daily living. With the additions altering the roofline, the house needed integration as well as a focus on bedrooms and walk-in closets. Other necessary upgrades included a new roof, new perimeter drains, new electrical supply to the house and a restructured electrical network to the property’s buildings. “There was no doubt this home was ripe to be converted,”

SPRUCE | WINTER 2022

says Keogan. “As soon as you walked in, you could see it was so charming, but it was not at all functional for the way people live now, and it was clearly going to be challenging to figure out how to incorporate all the necessary alterations.” Because the house was on a working equestrian farm, Keogan knew it was important to consider sight lines for the family’s privacy while capturing maximum natural light. The team planned to reconfigure the existing footprint of the roughly 1,600-square-foot house and add another 1,100 square feet with a new primary bedroom suite and walk-in closet, as well as a twocar garage, mechanical room and mudroom. “We wanted the home to feel a certain way, with more natural light and an open floor plan, which is important so people could keep eyes on a busy young boy,” says Keogan. “We were very aware of the height of the windows. If someone was driving down the driveway or going to a paddock, we wanted windows raised to the back of the sofa so we could keep the farmhouse esthetic and charm but offer better privacy.” Though there was limited space at the entry of the home, an eight-foot glass door was selected to bring a feeling of grandeur. With the ceiling height increased in the main living area, the home held a new expansiveness. The addition of the garage entrance and mudroom meant front door clutter could be avoided. Meanwhile, custom touches, like the reclaimed wood fireplace mantel, rustic wide-plank hardwood flooring and black lacquered barn doors, preserve a charming esthetic. “Modern farmhouse design is about striking the right balance between minimalist and country living,” says Keogan. “The modern farmhouse retains a bit more sophistication than the rustic country homes of the past, but it was important to retain

LIVING AREA + KITCHEN BRINGING NATURE INSIDE The design team moved forward with the themes of timelessness, elegance and low maintenance for this renovation. With nearly 75 per cent of the original home’s structure rebuilt, this kitchen, dining and living area represents a complete transformation. The 10-foot ceilings grant feelings of spaciousness, and modern clean lines, oak beams, natural materials and rustic furniture preserve a contemporary sense of ranch life. Wide-plank white oak hardwood flooring provides natural durability, and the concrete-inspired quartz countertops are built for hard-wearing luxury. The Venetian plaster hood fan adds dimension to the space while its trim echoes the flooring.

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The fireplace features painted brick and a roughhewn, custom reclaimed wood mantel, which adds to the transitional design found throughout the house.

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the heritage of this original farmhouse and integrate seamlessly with the acreage and farm life that surrounds it.” Clean neutral tones, organic materials, layered textures and contrasting black elements add edge to this design. Vaulted shiplap ceilings and oak beams create a strikingly open space throughout the home. A Venetian plaster hood fan draws the eye upward in the kitchen, while concrete-inspired quartz kitchen countertops, a painted brick fireplace in the living room and handmade duck-eggblue glazed tile in the ensuite create dynamic accents in their spaces. The theme is timeless, simple, elegant — and low maintenance. “As hands off as these clients were, I knew the details mattered to them,” says Keogan. “It took me 10 months to find the right fireplace mantel, which we discovered in Indiana as railway ties from reclaimed timber. However, we salvaged the bricks in the original fireplace, so there is new and old in one.” One important feature in this reno was the revision of the bedrooms. Closet sizes were increased in all three bedrooms, a gap was created between the primary bedroom and child’s bedroom for noise consideration, and an intentional effort was made to establish equality between “his and her” sides. Given differing schedules, the primary bedroom’s walk-in and ensuite — nearly the same size as the bedroom itself — was designed as a getaway from the bedroom so morning routines could go smoothly. The primary bedroom is tucked away from the rest of the farm, nestled between hedges and a beautiful garden that looks out on a new courtyard. “There were a lot of things I didn’t realize I wanted — I was definitely overwhelmed with the reno and building our business — but Danielle found solutions for everything,” says Elizabeth. “She did a good job of thinking not only about now, but also about what our son will need when he’s 10 and wants more privacy. I just said it had to be warm and bright and clean and simple, and she magically made it happen.”

A PRIVATE SANCTUARY The master bedroom and walk-in closet are a complete addition, strategically placed away from the vantage points of the barns and fields for added privacy and looking out onto its own private garden. Given the home’s previous renos, the design team had to work with differing roof lines, ceiling heights and foundations. This room features vaulted shiplap ceilings to draw the gaze upward, while clean neutral tones, organic materials and layered textures create an inviting softness to the space. The walk-in closet was built to accommodate differing schedules with a complete room for getting ready each day.

PRIMARY BEDROOM + ENSUITE The windows in this section of the home were placed with intention to welcome in as much light as possible while providing maximum privacy for the family. This ensuite off the primary bedroom creates a spa environment, with its pedestal bath and shower room, decorated with handmade glazed tile for a splash of colour. Contrasting black features, including window frames and powder-coated finishes, add a modern edge to this otherwise natural palette.

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MUDROOM + LAUNDRY ROOM

TOUCH OF CLASS With elegance as a driving design factor, the home retains more sophistication than its more rustic counterparts of country homes in the past. However, heritage remains an important feature. When the homeowners moved in, they had to go outside to a separate room to do the laundry — those days are gone and now this purpose-built area allows maximum convenience for cleaning up after busy rural life. The custom, black-lacquered barn doors are a statement feature of the laundry area, giving dramatic dimension to this space. With the addition of a second garage entrance and mudroom, and the inclusion of custom cabinetry, benches and hooks, the usual front door clutter can be completely avoided.

LIST OF RESOURCES DESIGNER: Maverick Design | BUILDER: Maxwell Developments | FRAMER: Adam Benning | PLUMBING AND MECHANICAL: Oceanview Mechanical ELECTRICIAN: VI Electric | LIGHT FIXTURES: Pine Lighting | WINDOWS, DOORS AND HARDWARE: Westeck Windows + Doors | ROOFING: Ascension Roofing TILE: Hourigan’s Flooring | KITCHEN APPLIANCES: Coast Appliances | COUNTERTOPS: Abstract Stone | PLUMBING FIXTURES: Splashes Bath & Kitchen FLOORING: Hourigan’s Flooring | CABINETRY AND MILLWORK: Hobson Woodworks | PAINT: Brock Solid Paint Co.

SPRUCE | WINTER 2022

RURAL RENOS

LO C A L LY H A N D C R A F T E D D E S I G N E R K I TC H E N S

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU START

hen building or renovating on a rural property, you’ll want to check zoning. For example, properties designated Agriculture Land Reserve have different bylaws and uses than residential zoning. Otherwise, Max Shepherdson, principal owner of Maxwell Developments, says rural properties have similar challenges to regular suburban lots as far as environmental issues go. “We’ve found some suburban lots to be just as problematic as rural properties,” says Shepherdson. “From buried oil tanks to contaminated soil, it really depends on the history of the lot. Sometimes when you’re in demo phase, you can uncover lots of things, different layers. It’s always a good idea to have contingencies in budgets for things like this.” Due diligence is extremely important in the pre-construction phase to get an excellent understanding of the existing property and home, he adds. To ensure they get the right information, Maxwell Developments has checklists for their trade partners, which include:

DREAM KITCHENS REALLY DO COME TRUE

• Recent property survey • Review of existing plans on file at the city or municipality • Arborist report to address tree management • Engineer report to address storm/ sewer/septic management • Review of existing electrical, plumbing, water meter/service size and location • Review of electrical panels/ agricultural lines versus house lines Shepherdson notes that it can be complex if there are multiple systems and buildings on one property. While time and money can fix almost anything, he says, “By having a solid process in our project discovery phase and the right professional teams on our side, we can mitigate time and budget to provide our clients a clear picture. We want to make the journey of construction projects as seamless and simple as possible for our clients.”

Built for life

Built for inspired living

250.384.4663 | Victoria, BC | jasongoodcabinets.com JOB # JGOF-15756 CLIENT: JASON GOOD CUSTOM CABINETS PUBLICATION: YAM MAGAZINE INSERTION DATE: MAY/JUNE 2014 ISSUE SPRUCE | WINTER 2022 SIZE: 7.5" X 4.7" (HALF PAGE) PREPARED BY: ECLIPSE CREATIVE INC. @ 250-382-1103

BY CAROLYN CAMILLERI

MIKE PEPPERDINE/BESEA PHOTO

TAGGART SORENSON/SPECHT ARCHITECTS

BIG IDEAS

EVERYTHING IN ITS PLACE | Having a series of drawers and cabinets built under your stairs makes good use of an otherwise dead space. This type of setup can be especially helpful in homes where the stairs are near a door and the added storage can be used for hats, scarves, mitts, shopping bags — you get the idea.

2 SECRET STOWAWAY | In this project by Victoria’s Spaciz, a pantry renovation meant the space under the stairs was less accessible. The solution, led by Spaciz designer Carley Petillion, was to install a false panel with touch-latch hardware. Literally out of sight and out of mind, bulky, seldom-used belongings like Christmas decorations now have a place to be neatly stored away until needed.

STEP UP TO CREATIVE STORAGE

ARE MEDIA/LIVING4MEDIA

DESIGN & BUILD: CASE ARCHITECTS & REMODELERS PHOTO: STACY ZARIN GOLDBERG

Transform that dead space under the stairs into something beautifully useful.

STAIR CUBBIES | If you don’t have — or want — full access to the (probably) three-foot-deep space under the stairs, you may want to try open cubbies. These cubbies can be built in any configuration for attractive, convenient storage for books or other collectibles.

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4 A SOMMELIER’S DREAM | Have you always wanted a wine cellar but didn’t think you had the space? Maybe you do! This dream-come-true “wine cellar” is complete with bottle racks and lights. Before you start ripping out walls, consult a designer or builder to ensure structural supports aren’t affected. With the right guidance, you may even be able to install a wine fridge.

CATHERINE TIGHE/SCRAFANO ARCHITECTS

GET LOFTY | If your home has a loft, why stop at building under the stairs? Cabinets, drawers and shelves can become a feature wall as well as adding some very practical storage. If you have stairs to a lower level, you may want to consider building in a home office at the base of the stairs.

WALL BEDS

Wall beds — aka Murphy beds — have long been favoured for turning a space into a guest room, and they still serve that function very well. These days, however, wall beds come in all sizes and configurations, with seating, shelving and desks built in, along with comfy mattresses and really impressive, easy-to-use mechanisms.

(Altea wall bed, Resource Furniture)

TOP 5 WAYS TO SAVE SPACE Form follows function when it comes to furniture for small spaces. 2

UNDER-BED STORAGE

While underbed storage isn’t new, what is new is how beautiful and clever it can be. The concept is reminiscent of the storage benches often placed at the foot of a bed in large bedrooms, but without taking up all that space. Ideal for storing extra linens and pillows, off-season clothing and other items you might not need every day but don’t want to relegate to a storage closet.

(Ravel bed with storage, Structube)

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EXPANDABLE DINING TABLE

One of the oldest and most common space savers is the expandable table. According to some sources, they first started appearing in the 1500s, followed by centuries of variations. Today’s expandable dining tables range from simple and functional to works of engineering genius. Having one of these innovative pieces in your home means you really can host that sit-down dinner party for eight after all.

(Omnia table, Calligaris)

CREATIVE SHELVING

CECILIA MOLLER/LIVING4MEDIA

If you need more space, look up, even way up! Consider adding shelving in a bathroom, kitchen, over a desk, beside a bed — really anywhere you want to add some functional but attractive storage. If you are installing shelves yourself, be sure to follow guidance for securing them safely to the wall and get out your level to get them straight.

CONVERTIBLE COFFEE TABLE One of the most common catchall spots in a home is surely the coffee table, especially in a room where people frequently gather. Make the most of this indispensable furnishing by maxing out its usefulness, for example, with clever storage spaces and even lift tops. Not only can you neatly tuck away books, games, magazines and all those remote controls when guests drop by, but you can also quickly clear space for, yes, your coffee cup.

(Aleda lift-top coffee table, Wayfair)

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SPRUCE | WINTER 2022

A SPLASH OF

DIY

AN EXPERT’S APPROACH TO INTERIOR PAINTING FOR A PROFESSIONAL-GRADE FINISH. BY LINDA BARNARD

sk the pros what gives a DIY paint project a professional look and they agree: success is in the preparation. No matter how excited you are to transform your space with a bold accent wall or the newest neutral, surface prep is 95 per cent of the job, says Nita Stanyer, who works in the paint department at Bay Street Castle. That prep includes a light sanding between coats. “It’s a way nicer finish,” she says.

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Paint Picks “The difference is night and day.” Stayner knows what she’s talking about. She not only helps people navigate every step of a DIY painting job, but she has also renovated her own home. Professional painter Nicholas Callow, who runs Nicholas Alexander Painting with partner Ilze Callow, has worked on décor projects for notables, including Prince Charles and Princess Anne. He says proper prep means ensuring wall surfaces are clean and any

damage or defects have been filled and sanded flat. “In fact, give the whole wall a light sand because quite often it will pick up imperfections,” says Callow. “It’s quite daunting for a lot of people but the truth of the matter is they can get a 50 per cent better job just by investing that extra hour in sanding.” Callow recommends using a pole sander. You can pick one up at any hardware store. Round sanding heads do a better job than rectangles.

When browsing paint swatches at your local paint store or online, keep in mind that the colour may look very different in a shadowed corner of your kitchen, for example. Large wall swatches are the best way to test drive a colour. (Shown above: Farrow & Ball’s Treron No. 292, a dark green with a traditional feel that also works in more modern homes.)

See the Light Paint sheen can look quite different depending on the light at different times of the day. Matte paint reflects little to no light, while eggshell has more sheen and satin more yet. Benjamin Moore Aura Matte in Flint AF-560 is used on the walls here with Simply White OC-117 for the trim and cabinets. Matte paints provide a sense of richness and can soften hard surfaces nearby, like metal, tile and mirrors.

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After each sanding, Stayner advises wiping the walls with a dry cloth to remove dust and debris.

PICKING YOUR PAINT Stayner says a lot of people come into the store and don’t know where to start. “Start with the colour,” she tells them. She also encourages people to ask questions and can teach them how to compare colour brightness to pick the right shade. She then sends them home with paint chips and tells them to take away the ones they don’t like to narrow down the options. Callow uses drapes, cushions and furnishings in a room for clues to the right palette. Matching isn’t always the best plan, he says. Sometimes contrast works best. “The most important thing is sample, sample, sample,” says Callow, recommending people paint half-metre-square swatches around a room before making a final decision. Stayner agrees. Don’t do testers, she says. Instead, buy a litre of paint and see how it looks at different times of day on each wall. Another decision is sheen, which determines durability and how the paint reflects light. The same hue of paint can even look different depending on the sheen.

Garden Makeovers Garden Coaching 2D & 3D Modelling Land Planning Site Design SPRUCE | WINTER 2022

Freelance interior designer Stephanie Balda works in sales for both the trade and DIY customers at Benjamin Moore retailer Pacific Paint. She says for kitchens, bathrooms and trim, go with washable and durable pearl, satin or semi-gloss sheens. For a bedroom or living room, choose flat or matte paints for their depth of colour and rich-looking texture. She’s not surprised to learn Callow says his go-to matte is Benjamin Moore’s Aura. It’s hers, too. And both the matte and eggshell sheens are washable. “I have it in my living room. I love Aura — it’s fantastic,” she says, adding that because it is a thicker, fade-resistant, selfpriming latex paint, one-and-a-half coats will get the job done. She explains that after the first thicker coat, the “half” is just to fill in any gaps. For kitchen and bath, Callow favours Modern Emulsion by deluxe British manufacturer Farrow & Ball, which he calls the best paint on the planet, adding that it requires some experience to apply. “You must be fairly brisk with it,” he says.

ALMOST TIME TO PAINT Once the prep work is done and the paint and good-quality brushes and rollers are purchased, the painting can begin. Choose a day and time you can focus on it. “There are no coffee breaks until you get to the corner,” says Stayner, who advises “maintaining a wet edge.” In other words, don’t paint the edges all around the room and then go back with the roller. “Cut in with a brush and roller after that,” says Callow. “Cut one wall, then roller it.” And remember, you’ll be looking at these walls for a long time. “It’s an important decision and it’s an important investment if you’re going to be living with it for 10 or 20 years.” Callow says. Plan ahead and take the time to do it right, and a well-painted room is a DIY project that will make you proud.

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Light Effects To create subtle yet noticeably different effects, consider this tip from Benjamin Moore: Use the same paint colour but in different sheens. For example, a low-sheen eggshell or matte can be used on the walls, but a high-gloss or semi-gloss on cabinets. For added drama, under-cabinet lights boost the reflection in the paint and further emphasize the contrast.

QUICK TIPS FROM THE PROS KNOW YOUR SURFACE

To paint a light colour over dark, Stayner says you’ll likely need a primer. If you live in a heritage home, check your walls for oil paint. Test by using a cloth or cotton pad soaked in good-quality acetone. If the paint comes off, it’s latex. If the paint sticks, it’s oil and you’ll have to wash the wall and de-gloss with sandpaper before priming.

PLAN AHEAD

Measure the walls to buy the right amount of paint. Read the instructions on the paint can, which tells you how much drying time is needed for sanding between coats.

GET CRISP LINES

Painter’s tape is the secret to straight crisp lines on a DIY paint job. Balda recommends the Frog Tape brand for the edges. “It’s a little more expensive, but the product speaks for its expense.”

BRUSHES 101

• Use brushes with natural bristles for oil paints. • Use synthetic bristles for latex paints. • Best brush width for cutting and trim: 50 to 65 mm

USE THE RIGHT ROLLER

The more texture on the surface, the deeper the pile should be: • Smooth drywall: 6 to 10 mm pile • Ceilings: 13 to 15 mm pile • Brick and stucco: 15 to 30 mm pile

“[Frog Tape is] a little more expensive, but the product speaks for its expense.”

ESSENTIALS Kitchens and bathrooms top the essentials list in any home and can influence how you feel about the whole house. Similarly, if heating, plumbing, electrics and roofing are not up to standard, it can be hard to appreciate positives. Making essentials a priority is always a smart decision.

THE COHESIVE RENO

BEING PROACTIVE

LABOUR OF LOVE

TAKING THE CHILL OFF

The seamless renovation of a Highlands property completed in two phases.

Make home inspection part of maintenance to set repair and renovation priorities.

Preserve character and get the updates you want in an older home.

Expert tips to guide a home heating upgrade.

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The Cohesive Reno (Hint: It can be done!)

HOW A TOTAL HOME RENOVATION WAS COMPLETED IN TWO SEAMLESSLY INTEGRATED PHASES. BY KIM PEMBERTON | PHOTOS BY DASHA ARMSTRONG

hen it comes to home “One of the challenges is making sure renovations, having the work everyone is on the same page,” says Ferguson. done in phases can make sense “The project manager did a great job in leading from an economic standpoint it and it went really smoothly. The key is what — allowing costs to be spread out over time. It we call the Red Book, which is all the specifics also means you can likely continue to live in of the project — basically, the bible — and having the home throughout the work, with breaks everyone look at that before the job even starts between phases. so everyone understands the job from day one.” But to create a seamless new look, it is also While the kitchen and bathrooms were important to maintain consistency in the design both major renovations, other updates were approach — especially if different designers are also made throughout the home. For example, involved and a period of time passes. changing the flooring from a light fir to hickory MAC Renovations did just this in a recently stained to look like walnut, updating the river completed reno of a six-bedroom home in rock fireplace to ledge stone, sanding all the the Highlands overlooking Finlayson Arm. stair railings to match the flooring and adding Although two different interior designers were new trim throughout the home. Light structural used during the two phases, the designers posts were also stained to match the new collaborated to bring the same design sensibility flooring. For a personal touch, the homeowner’s to the project and created a cohesive renovation. woodworker father created the wood mantles “It was a really good collaboration for two on both sides of the fireplace. designers to work back to back with each other The before and after photos of the home and the customer,” says senior project manager show a dramatic change, particularly in the Margaret Cormode. primary bedroom and kitchen. With the former, In phase 1, done over five months in it was previously one large room with a fireplace 2021, the home’s primary ensuite, upstairs that was removed to provide space to extend the bathroom, downstairs powder room and gym ensuite. The original ensuite had a small vanity were completed by designer Alexis Solomon. while the new vanity has a double sink and a However, other design project commitments linen tower. meant Solomon was unable to work on the second phase of the house. That’s when MAC Renovations stepped in. Led by their senior designer Azucena Saavedra Onuszkanycz, work on phase 2 — the kitchen, mudroom The first phase of the renovation, by designer Alexis Solomon, included the home’s and main living space — began primary ensuite as well as the upstairs bathroom, downstairs powder room and gym. in February 2022 and was completed in the summer. “I took a lot of inspiration from the [phase 1] ensuite and what the client wanted,” says Saavedra Onuszkanycz. “Both rooms [the ensuite and the kitchen] have a traditional feel.” Instrumental in both phases was lead carpenter Colin Ferguson.

PHASE 1 > THE ENSUITE

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A sleek standalone tub and crystal chandelier take centre stage in the newly renovated primary ensuite, which was expanded to ensure the homeowners got everything they needed. That included a large walkin shower, double sinks, extra cabinet storage and a makeup vanity.

One of the most outstanding features in the room is the modern crystal chandelier over the standalone tub — something the homeowners really wanted. To accommodate the chandelier, a discreet box was placed in the large skylight so the wiring is concealed. There were also major challenges in the original kitchen. “It wasn’t a very functional kitchen,” says Saavedra Onuszkanycz. “The island was on two levels and cut up and the cabinets didn’t go to the ceiling.” By building the cabinets to the ceiling, the homeowners gained more storage. Storage

was also added in a side cabinet and in the new kitchen island, designed by Saavedra Onuszkanycz with a custom three-inch-thick countertop, stepped out for a layered look. She also pulled the cooktop/oven and two side cabinets forward to add to a traditional feel to the kitchen. “It gives it more interest than a flush range that is typically done,” she says. Now complete, the two phases of the renovation are a perfect match, resulting in exactly what the homeowners wanted and demonstrating that, with qualified design guidance, you don’t always have to do everything at once. SPRUCE | WINTER 2022

Before

The ensuite’s tiles use marble and porcelain to artistic effect, with a bordered rug-like pattern in front of the double sink vanity (above) and showcases the wall shower set (left). By removing the bedroom’s fireplace, the bathroom now has space for luxury items like the makeup vanity (right).

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HOW TO

MOVING A BATHROOM

You might assume the location of a bathroom is something you just have to accept. But that’s not necessarily the case. “Moving a bathroom is not as difficult as some would think,” says Azucena Saavedra Onuszkanycz, senior designer at MAC Renovations. “Depending on how far the move is or what is involved, it could be more costly but is usually not difficult. It really depends on the type of home and where the bathroom is located.” For example, plumbing typically cannot move far, if at all, in condos. If the bathroom you want to move is in a basement, that may mean cutting up and filling in concrete. “Being able to have access from above and below the bathroom floor is key,” says Saavedra Onuszkanycz. While this means the rooms below a bathroom could be affected, it may still be a project worth undertaking.

STEP 1

Ask yourself some questions.

• What is the investment you are willing to put into moving a bathroom? • How would it benefit you, your life and your home experience? • Does a simple makeover of the bathroom in its existing location solve its issues? • Does your existing bathroom have storage spaces around it that could be used to enlarge the bathroom rather than moving it to an entirely new location? • Do you have another bathroom to use or will you need to move during renovation?

STEP 2

Talk to an experienced general contractor or design/build firm to find out if the project is feasible and get pricing for the entire project. “Bathrooms may be a small part of the home yet they are similar to kitchen renovations, requiring just as many tradespeople, if not more,” says Saavedra Onuszkanycz.

STEP 3

Consult a designer.

A designer may have ideas you haven’t considered and may come up with a solution you like better than moving the bathroom. “In the past, I have turned two bathrooms that were side by side into one big ensuite or the opposite, and other times, I’ve adjusted the size of one bathroom to make another larger and more functional.” Pre-planning is key in moving a bathroom and not all contractors offer design services. A designer can assist with materials selection, provide options, and make the entire process less time consuming. “A fully planned-out renovation with drawings and full selections prior to the commencement of the reno makes for a smoother and shorter renovation time,” says Saavedra Onuszkanycz.

Although the downstairs powder room in this home was done by a different designer in phase 2, it replicates many of the same details seen in the ensuite bathroom done in phase 1, such as the wall panelling and trim detail.

C I B C WO O D G U N DY

Understanding the Personal and Side of Family The only constant in life isHuman change.

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Dllil

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PHASE 2 > THE KITCHEN

MAC Renovations, led by designer Azucena Saavedra Onuszkanycz, completed phase 2: the kitchen, as well as the mudroom and main living space.

Before

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“I TOOK A LOT OF INSPIRATION FROM THE [PHASE 1] ENSUITE AND WHAT THE CLIENT WANTED.” — Azucena Saavedra Onuszkanycz, senior designer, MAC Renovations

The kitchen underwent a major renovation, where the cabinetry was reconfigured. Straight lines instead of the previous angular counters made it more functional. The island is now rectangular with more space for a microwave and extra sink (above and below). The pantry features a bar fridge and glass shelving display. The fireplace was updated with ledge stone from Decora Tile. The homeowner’s father made the new wood mantles installed on either side.

Before

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CREATING A SPACE THAT IS

UNIQUELY YOURS

PHASE 2 > THE MUDROOM

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Before

The mudroom was reconfigured to allow a set of benches that face one another. The old closet (seen in the “before” photo) was removed and a new closet was placed on the other side. This allows for a better flow in the space, which also features new flooring and a modern pendant.

The mudroom is conveniently located at the back of the house and leads into the kitchen. Custom benches, with coat hooks above and drawers below, maximize storage space.

LIST OF RESOURCES DESIGN BUILD (CURRENT PHASE 2, 2022): MAC Renovations with designer Azucena Saavedra Onuszkanycz | DESIGNER (PHASE 1, 2021): Alexis Solomon KITCHEN AND MUDROOM TILE FLOOR: Decora Tile | CUSTOM KITCHEN CABINETS: Hobson Woodworks | COUNTERTOPS: Stone Age Marble BACKSPLASH: Decora Tile | KITCHEN FAUCETS: Brizo | KITCHEN SINKS: Blanco | FIREPLACE STONE: Decora Tile | LIVING ROOM FLOORING: TDI Flooring

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HOME SMARTS

BY SHANNON MONEO

Being Proactive

JEFFREY BOSDET/SPRUCE MAGAZINE

Making home inspections a part of maintenance will extend the life of your most important asset and set priorities for repairs and renovations.

Trevor Hoskins is a licensed home inspector and the owner of Edgewater Home Inspections who works with residential home owners and buyers. He has inspected more than 4,000 homes over 15 years.

atherine Lord and her two sons have bought and sold 10 properties over the last dozen years or so. For five of the homes, the Lord team used the services of a home inspector. Lord initially had home inspections done to ensure the property she was buying wasn’t a dud and, on the flip side, to make sure the property she was selling didn’t have major problems. Today, the Victoria resident is a strong advocate for making home inspections part of home maintenance. “Once you move in and get settled, you never think of a home inspection again. But you should do it at least every 10 years,” Lord says.

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To make it more compelling, she thinks home insurers should offer discounts to conscientious homeowners who regularly get professionals to scour their big investment. Results of Lord’s inspections included information that electrical sockets were in bad condition (a fire and safety hazard), a perimeter drain was failing, asbestos was detected and flooding inside a home had repeatedly occurred. Many failings would have gone undetected by the untrained. Once a property is purchased, Lord says that having scheduled checks will inform the property owner what needs to be fixed and what the

priorities are. The knowledge allows the owner to plan and create a budget for the work, in effect becoming a maintenance schedule. “You don’t have to do it all at once,” she says. “But why wait for a breach in the plumbing?” But inspections can be a hard sell, especially since some feverish buyers were forgoing home inspections during the recent buying frenzy and later discovering their million-dollar baby was ailing. Russ Cass has been doing home inspections for over two decades and has found many homeowners don’t want to know about their home’s shortcomings. “They bury their heads in the

JEFFREY BOSDET/SPRUCE MAGAZINE

“HOME INSPECTIONS CAN BE ENORMOUSLY VALUABLE TO PEOPLE BEFORE A RENOVATION AND AS AN INTEGRAL PART OF ONGOING HOME MAINTENANCE.” Trevor Hoskins, Edgewater Home Inspections

sand. It never plays out well,” says Cass, owner of Home Check. One exception is strata properties. “Some have really caught on,” he says. Strata-titled properties have been dealing with steep climbs for insurance costs over the last few years and to address possible insurance risks, inspections prioritize work that needs to be done. Unfortunately, often the board of a strata understands, but the other owners in the property don’t agree, leading to delayed or ignored work. Joey Boulanger has been working for Home Check for three years and has witnessed how strata properties require inspections in order to complete necessary depreciation reports. Yet when it comes to individual property owners, ignorance is bliss. “We certainly feel we need to see more inspections,” says Boulanger, a certified home inspector who also has a diploma in civil engineering technology. “Small, incremental repairs can extend the life of your home.” Vested interests aside, the value of regular home inspections should not be ignored. Having an accredited professional walk around a home, using their trained eye, can save a homeowner thousands in repair work. Yet a tiny percentage, almost zero, do it, says Boulanger. “People think of a home as a static thing, but it changes,” he adds. And if a home is bought without an inspection and without a subsequent check, buyer beware. “A huge chunk of what we do is to provide insight into extending the life of the home,” Boulanger says. It begins with a 45- to 60-minute walk through the interior, with verbal feedback, followed by roof, attic and basement inspections, as well a walk around the outside. The inspector will discuss what was discovered, point out what’s of interest and answer questions. A report laying out what was found is prepared. Conditions in the five main areas

(roof/upper structure, plumbing, heating, electrical, foundation/lower structure) are categorized based on severity and whether other professionals like electricians or engineers are needed. Items that can be completed by the homeowner, such as painting or decorating, are not included. The initial inspection provides instruction for about three to five years. In the interim, homeowners should do a walk-around their house twice a year and take note of any changes, Boulanger advises. Common problems that get discovered during inspections are varied, often depending on the age of the home. The roof can often present problems. A home may be sold with a 25-year roof guarantee, but if moss wasn’t controlled, the life span may drop by 30 per cent. Siding or cladding can also be compromised without the homeowner realizing. Seals on windows need close inspection. HVAC systems require knowledgeable eyes to notice changes. Poorly installed drainage systems, perimeter drains and landscaping can lead to major fiascos. Drains, for example, should be snaked out every five years. Septic fields and tanks also need attention. Lord used the services of three home inspection firms. Often, a real-estate agent has a company or two they consistently use. Lord has been happy with all of the home inspection firms, but there are a few aspects she would like covered. If it’s an older home, she’d like more details. She’d also like to know the seismic-related construction of the home and how the concrete was cast. She’d even pay more to know more. “I’d pay $900 and get every little detail,” she says. Getting your home inspected before you invest in a major renovation may mean resetting some priorities, but it may also prevent some big headaches.

MAINTENANCE PLAN “It can be easy to get overwhelmed at all the different elements of a house that need maintaining — from the heating system to the drainage,” says Trevor Hoskins, owner of Edgewater Home Inspections. After you’ve lived in a house for 10-plus years, he adds, a home inspection provides a maintenance plan to identify and prioritize the most pressing items. “Prior to a renovation is another smart time for a home inspection,” he says. “This relatively small investment can save you from unforeseen headaches and extra expenses when the renovation is underway.”

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PLATINUM CREATIVE

LABOUR OF LOVE HOW TO RENOVATE AN OLDER HOME TO GET WHAT YOU WANT WHILE PRESERVING CHARACTER. BY CAROLYN CAMILLERI

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PLATINUM CREATIVE

Above and left: Built in 1890, this Fernwood home needed restoring and updating when it was purchased by Kate Gray, an independent real-estate agent with The Agency Victoria, and her husband Brett Gray, who owns Gray and Co. Renovation and Design. Exterior work to the heritagedesignated home included a new roof and paint, as well as repairs to brick, stone and concrete. Getting the exterior right meant searching for images of this and other neighbourhood homes, as well as calling in a heritage expert.

Interior renovations are also unaffected by designation unless an interior feature is designated. “This is very rare,” says Schweitzer. “An example would be the staircase in the Wentworth Villa [1156 Fort Street], which is designated as a significant interior feature and included on the heritage designation for the building.” However, exterior changes can be affected by designation. For example: adding to the structure, enclosing a porch, raising the structure, altering the original façade or cladding, changing door or window dimensions, placement or materials, and removing or altering woodwork, siding and brickwork. “Generally speaking, maintenance can be done without permit but changes must be applied for,” says Schweitzer.

OLDER HOMES NOT YET DESIGNATED

PLATINUM CREATIVE

enovating a designated heritage home involves some steps that have led some people to believe it is especially challenging. That thinking is completely unjustified in the vast majority of cases, says Realtor Andrew Hobbs of Victoria Character Homes. Broadly speaking, people who enjoy older and heritage homes tend to be prepared with knowledge about heritage designation and an understanding that a renovation process exists. On the other end of the spectrum, some people are just looking for a home. “If they stumble upon a home that’s a character or heritage home, a lot of them have a negative idea of what it means, and they think they can’t do anything to upgrade it, including on the interior, which is completely incorrect,” says Hobbs. It’s important to consider what you want to change. “What is it that you would consider doing to it that you think the city might have a problem with? Are you going paint it pink with yellow stripes and knock down the chimney and change the windows to vinyl? Because then you do have a problem,” says Hobbs. Clearing up misunderstandings starts with clarifying what is meant by renovations. Functional renovations — heating/cooling, electrics, plumbing, insulation — are generally unaffected by designation. “Windows and roofing materials might be an exception if they are substantially different than what was there before or if they are considered significant heritage elements of the building when applying for designation,” says Ben Schweitzer, owner of EPIC Project Management and inspector and board member at Victoria Heritage Foundation.

The Fernwood home’s interior, which is not heritage designated, was fully renovated. At some time in the past it has been divided into two suites, up and down. The Grays returned it to single-family home. The original crown moulding and trim were all kept and refinished in white. Plank and Saw restored the original Douglas fir flooring, a process that included bleaching it. The entire renovation took about a year and the house has since been sold.

Renovations to older homes that are undesignated and unregistered are a completely different matter. You can do what you want as long as it meets building codes and zoning regulations. In Hobbs’ experience, most people don’t buy a home with the intention to designate — but they might see potential for having features restored to their original appearance. The decision to apply for designation tends to come later once a certain amount work has been done. For example, if a 1913 house has additions and a porch enclosed in vinyl windows, all that needs to be undone before designation can even be considered. “The most important thing is really that those features haven’t been unalterably changed already,” says Hobbs.

Here Hobbs provides perspective: “As time moves on, a ’70s split-level house that right now we’re not too excited about could be like, ‘Wow, that’s a part of our heritage’ — maybe not tomorrow, but at some point.” Hobbs notes, too, that most people are thrilled if the electrics, plumbing and insulation in older homes have been updated. Beyond that, people look for “degrees of heritage” — from windows, doors, trim and floors, which are fairly common, all the way to looking for original kitchens and bathrooms. “The average person will walk through a house and see that it has an old-style feel to it, but the real

BENEFITS OF HERITAGE DESIGNATION

Heritage designation opens up resource and expertise possibilities. “The grant process is a huge incentive not only because of the financial incentive but also for the resource of knowledge that the Victoria Heritage Foundation volunteers can offer a homeowner,” says Schweitzer. “The community of heritage enthusiasts in Victoria is phenomenal and each home

is treasured by the whole community.” In Victoria, the permit process is separate from the application for grants, which is administered by the Victoria Heritage Foundation. “The process would be to apply to the City Heritage Department for a Delegated Heritage Alteration

permit,” says Schweitzer. “This would need to be done regardless of seeking a grant from the Victoria Heritage Foundation.” Schweitzer adds that each Greater Victoria municipality has very different processes and the details vary, including whether grants are available.

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enthusiast, they want the hinges and hardware to be period specific and will do phenomenal research,” says Hobbs. While it is all personal preference, recognizing the value of heritage preservation is worthwhile. For example, imagine a brand-new, nicely built 2022 home in (say) Fairfield and a heritage home a few doors down. Based on today’s values, the 2022 home will probably sell for more. “Some of that value — or a lot of it — comes from the fact that it’s brand new,” says Hobbs. “But 10 to 15 years from now, a well-maintained character home retains value, and the reason it has value is that it’s exactly the same.” For any older-home renovation, Hobbs advises working with existing character features: leaded windows, stained glass, exposed brick or wood, even a quirky floor plan. “To me, it’s just a shame not to make your plans around character features,” says Hobbs. “It doesn’t make sense to buy a really nice old character home then get rid of the wainscotting and put in Home Depot white baseboards. You might as well buy the 2022 home down the road.” Start by calling in a home inspector with experience, then put together a detailed plan of everything you want done — not bit by bit over the years. “Then it 100 per cent has to be working with professionals with experience in heritage,” says Hobbs.

Plank and Saw, heritage restoration specialists, worked extensively on the interior of this 1911 heritage-designated home. The original Douglas fir flooring had reached the end of its life and there was significant sloping and squeaking. The base and subflooring were replaced and leveled and 2,700 square feet of rift quarter-sawn white oak was installed, finished to look like it belonged in this era.

Donald Luxton, senior cultural heritage advisor at Donald Luxton and Associates, has been involved with heritage consulting for almost 40 years. “All homeowners have different needs and desires, so the extent of work is often a very personal effort,” says Luxton. “There is usually ongoing maintenance and repair, and you always have to paint and keep the roof in good condition. From the outside, we sometimes see exterior restoration work funded by one of the local heritage foundations, evident in the spectacular protected heritage buildings we see around the region. What we don’t see is the internal work — the wiring, plumbing, new kitchens and bathrooms, which homeowners have to attend to.” The first step is understanding the house. “Too many people start making decisions before they have explored their house thoroughly,” says Luxton. “You need to look for physical and documentary evidence. Is anything covered over that will reveal some original features? Are there archival images of the house that will assist in restoring its authentic character?” Older buildings have hidden surprises, some good, some not so good.

JODY BECK

CALLING IN THE EXPERTS

For any older-home renovation, Hobbs advises working with existing character features: leaded windows, stained glass, exposed brick or wood, even a quirky floor plan. “Sometimes we find that older buildings have excellent structures and are built with old-growth lumber that has hardened over time as it dries out,” says Luxton. On the other hand, foundations can sometimes be a challenge if built of rubble stone or concrete that hasn’t aged well. “One of the worst problems is later ‘improvements,’ where an owner has insensitively

WINDOWS: REPAIRS VS REPLACEMENTS Before you replace wooden windows, talk to an experienced professional. “Far too often, wooden windows that are repairable are taken out and replaced with some cheaper and less durable material,” says Luxton, noting that vinyl windows have a shorter life span. “Wooden windows are generally fixable and will last for another 100 years if repaired. They can also be upgraded to be more energy efficient in many simple ways.”

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Does your home have heritage potential? Requirements vary, but factors may include: • Age of property or structure • Architectural style • Designer and/or builder • Historic significance in association with a person, time period or event In Victoria, factors may also include location within one of 30 development permit or heritage conservation areas.

cut out structural elements to open up rooms or doorways,” says Luxton. He advises not “fighting with your house” by trying to turn it into something it never was: “Learn to love your house and the history it represents.” And take your time. “Do your house a favour and go slow on tearing out original features that can be maintained,” says Luxton. “The CRD is so lucky to have robust heritage programs that help maintain and protect heritage buildings of all types. Also, the area is rich with superb craftspeople who can repair and restore heritage homes.”

PLATINUM CREATIVE

FINDING THE RIGHT CRAFTSPEOPLE Gavin Chamberlain is an inspector with Victoria Heritage Foundation and founder of Heritage Masonry, which specializes in historic masonry conservation, restoration and rehabilitation. “B.C. is still relatively young in what constitutes buildings of heritage, but we are fascinated by the stories and history we can learn from these places,” he says. Chamberlain says owning a heritage home can often be a labour of love. “There are so many benefits to being surrounded by and looking after things made with materials and design that have stood the test of time,” he says. “The architects, craftspeople and materials of a home created

in a style now viewed as uniquely Victorian — we have a responsibility to maintain and preserve this history.” It’s also practical. “In times of soaring costs and compromised supply lines, upkeeping what we already have makes more sense than ever,” says Chamberlain. “Finding materials to match the existing can, at times, be tricky, and there are fewer tradespeople interested in or capable of such work. But those of us who are, are very enthusiastic about it.” He offers a tip: “Don’t be daunted. Take the time to do your research and plan it out carefully with the right people involved. A job done well lasts for generations and is always worthwhile.” A home that’s lasted a century or more is proof of this.

Although the Fernwood home’s interior was fully renovated and modernized by the Grays, including a brand-new kitchen, heritage features were retained where possible. Crown mouldings, door trims and windows are original, as well as is the restored Douglas fir flooring. New touches with a heritage feel include the copper-coloured light sconces and pendant, faucet, cabinet pulls and appliance handles.

HERITAGE RESOURCES

PLATINUM CREATIVE

Loads of resources are available for homeowners who have — or believe they may have — a heritage home. Some municipalities and districts have registers and designation programs. Grants may be available in some areas. Detailed information is available on municipality websites. One source you may see referenced is The Standards and Guidelines for the Conservation of Historic Places in Canada (Second Edition, 2010). It’s considered the Canadian benchmark for heritage conservation practice and is used by planning departments across the country to set guidelines. Visit historicplaces.ca for more info.

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MASTERCLASS

BY SHANNON MONEO

Taking the Chill Off EXPERT TIPS TO HELP GUIDE A HOME HEATING UPGRADE.

or anyone thinking about updating their home heating, there’s much to consider. Rebates, the environment, costs, standards and even finding skilled tradespeople are all factors. Victoria isn’t Inuvik or Phoenix, but climate, by its nature, is unpredictable, so reliability — for the long term — is key. As technology advances and fossil fuel use declines, choices around home heating systems are much different than a few decades ago. When FortisBC brought natural gas to the province in 2002, there was a successful push to attract customers, many of them switching from fuel oil or electricity. Propane is another option, and solar and wind systems, with their heavy upfront costs, attract a minority. Wood burning remains confined to rural areas. According to Natural Resources Canada (2015), about 50 per cent of the energy used in a household goes towards heating. With no cooling of costs, the “how” is becoming increasingly important. Of late, Victoria-area homeowners seem pumped about heat pumps, often the type that

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uses heat in the air to either cool down or heat up a home. The manager of Gaslight Heat Services says the company had sporadic calls from subcontractors before COVID-19 hit. “Now we’re running two teams,” says Jennifer Culley. The teams are HVAC specialists, who are trained to install heating, ventilation and air-conditioning. Heat pump installations are by far the most requested service.

HEAT PUMP POPULARITY Why have heat pumps suddenly become flavour of the month? According to BC Hydro spokesperson Kyle Donaldson, heat pumps can be 300 per cent more energy efficient and are less expensive to operate than electric baseboard heaters or natural gas heating — and they can also cool a home. Heat pumps do not create heat — they work by transferring air from the air, ground or even water, and use a refrigerant that circulates between the indoor fan coil (air handler) unit and the outdoor compressor to transfer the heat.

UPGRADE REBATES AND GRANTS Federal, provincial, municipal and even manufacturer rebates and grants are available for various home heating upgrades. Here are a few resources:

■ N atural Resources Canada nrcan.gc.ca ■ B etter Homes BC betterhomesbc.ca ■ F ortisBC fortisbc.com/rebates-andenergy-savings ■ B C Hydro bchydro.com/powersmart

In cooling mode, a heat pump absorbs heat inside your home and releases it outdoors. In heating mode, the heat pump absorbs heat from the ground or outside air (even cold air) and releases it indoors. Sounds simple, but there are several considerations. Culley recommends doing plenty of research and not to get lost in the public relations campaigns. “There’s a big battle between gas and electricity right now,” she says. “You really have to compare them.” Most heat pumps use electricity, but according to a FortisBC spokesperson, the company is running a pilot program to test gas heat pumps in homes. “Gas heat pumps have the potential to cut the energy needed for space and water heating by up to 50 per cent, lower GHG emissions and operate in colder winter conditions,” says Holly Harrison.

SUMMER

Heated Air

Cooled Air

Outside Air

Thermostat

Warm Air

Heat pumps work by transferring air from the air, ground or even water into a home through an air handler. Depending on whether it is in cooling or heating mode, warm or cold air is released outdoors. Most heat pumps use electricity but gas-run heat pumps are being tested.

WINTER

IN COLDER MONTHS, HEAT PUMPS CAN BE 300 PER CENT MORE ENERGY EFFICIENT AND ARE LESS EXPENSIVE TO OPERATE THAN ELECTRIC BASEBOARD HEATERS OR NATURAL GAS HEATING.

Cooled Air Outside Air

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Heated Air

Thermostat

Cooled Air

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KNOW YOUR HEAT PUMPS

Seasonal scents

A tradition that feels right at home. Thymes Frasier Fir candles fill your home with aromatic fir, heartwarming cedarwood and relaxing sandalwood for a welcome feeling of warmth and joy.

The two most common type of heat pumps are air-source and ground-source (geothermal). Air-source transfers heat between indoor and outdoor air. Geothermal transfers heat between inside air and the ground outside. But geothermal pumps carry a high installation price, roughly $30,000 to install because of Greater Victoria’s rocky terrain. An air-source system costs between $10,000 to $20,000 to install but can be more depending on square footage and the system being replaced. Within the air-source heat pump category, “ducted” air-source heat pumps use ducts to move air. A “ductless” heat pump (also called mini-split) uses the same principles to heat and cool air, but the outdoor unit is connected to indoor heads that are installed in the home. Other types include underwater/underground heat pumps, hybrid heat pumps and even cold climate heat pumps.

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Heat pumps should last about 20 years. But for them to be most effective, homes need to be well insulated. Noise from the units can be a concern. Donaldson says outdoor units aren’t noisier than a rain shower and indoor units can be even quieter. Space requirements are minimal. But heat pumps come with caveats, according to a University of Victoria adjunct professor. When a product begins to enjoy unfettered popularity, there’s a risk of unintended consequences, says Andrew Pape-Salmon, who teaches in the civil engineering department. If the lauded cost savings aren’t as robust as promoted and if those who install the systems are not properly trained and accredited, public confidence will wane, he says. Culley notes that it takes about four years of training to be well qualified at heat pump installation. Standards for the industry have not been well developed. And while she appreciates an office warmed by a heat pump, Culley notes that some systems are not as cost-effective as touted. Other home heating choices include highefficiency gas furnaces or hot water heat (using natural gas-fuelled boilers that heat water that’s distributed via hidden floor pipes), which would be an expensive reno project. The final word goes to Donaldson: “Each home is different. The comparison between heating systems can depend on the system installed, the size of the home, the number of occupants, where the home is in B.C. and how well insulated the home is.”

DETAILS

Colour and texture, tiles and millwork, metal and wood, faucets and lighting — these are the details. While these choices may seem small compared to other aspects of a renovation, they deserve careful consideration. In fact, finishings can make a much bigger statement than almost anything else in a room.

AN ELABORATE FINISH

ACCOMMODATING DESIGN

IT’S THE LITTLE THINGS

The complete transformation of an Esquimalt condo into a dream home.

How to modify your main living area to fit your lifestyle.

Traditional or modern options for fast, easy changes that can brighten your space.

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AN ELABORATE

FINISH An Esquimalt condo is transformed into a whole new kind of home. BY SUSAN HOLLIS | PHOTOS BY JEFFREY BOSDET

en months and 16 countries into a planned year of travel, designer Sam Scott and her husband, carpenter and builder Brandon Scott, were forced home early by the pandemic. Instead, the pair moved up the timeline on renovating their newly acquired Esquimalt condo. Having previously built a 5,000-square-foot house in Red Deer, Alberta, the Scotts were accustomed to working together. But the condo project came with some new parameters. Not only did they live in it while renovating, but they were also faced with pandemicrelated supply issues that doubled their completion timeline and had them taking on some unexpected jobs, like hanging drywall. As with many modern couples, their space had to accommodate their professional needs and be their home, to be loved and lived in for years to come. “With both of us being in the industry, we kind of realized after we built a beautiful custom home in central Alberta, that it would be really hard to just step into something and not want to make it our own,” says Sam, lead designer at Boss Design. “When we saw this place, it was very empty, and it was pretty easy to see what we could do with it.” Drawing on their design and construction skills, they carefully rethought the 1,000-squarefoot space, adding hidden storage, a glassed-in bedroom with strong solarium vibes, and a bright, open-concept kitchen that can handle large dinner parties without feeling empty when it’s just the two of them. Non-negotiables, like exposed sprinkler lines, created an opportunity to mesh an industrial esthetic with more traditional tastes. Large timber-frame posts and ceiling beams soften the overall look while anchoring a distinct West Coast feel.

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Before

Existing timber beams were extended across the high ceilings to create a warm, West Coast vibe in the previously industrial-looking space. The dining room’s natural light is complemented by a West Elm pendant and built-in window seat that hides a Roomba vacuum. The owners chose to keep their glassed-in bedroom walls open to the rest of the space to capitalize on the ample natural light, giving the whole living and kitchen area a distinct solarium feel. In the kitchen, Mitzi kitchen sconces complement the floor-toceiling Kitch cabinets, and the terazzo backsplash offers a pop of fun and chaos amid the zone’s calming tones. A Larsen sectional from ScanDesigns centres the living room around the fireplace with a cantilevered marble surround that is narrow at the bottom and wider at the top to maximize floor space while providing more surface area up top for items of interest.

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“We have a blend of styles — there’s a little industrial, a little traditional, which is more Brendan,” says Sam. “Then I wanted to have fun with colour and texture, which I did.” Every inch of the two-bedroom, onebathroom condo has been redesigned, with Brandon — principal carpenter at Sawbrand Finish Carpentry — grinding off four layers of tinted sealant to reveal the warm grey of the original concrete flooring and handling all aspects of the extensive millwork, tiling and construction. By dropping the ceiling a few inches, they were able to improve sound transfer and install perfectly positioned pot lights and pendants. “Every detail was a priority — we didn’t want to leave anything untouched or unfinished, and we didn’t want it to feel like a half-done renovation,” says Brandon. “This was a step up from what was here, with a higher-end look, which is different than most condos.” To achieve that elegant feel, they chose Fisher & Paykel appliances to complement the floorto-ceiling reeded-profile Kitch cabinetry and terrazzo tile backsplash. Space was created for everything, from an easy-access shoe drawer and coat closet to closed upper-level shelving for occasionally used dinner platters and their Christmas tree. A small, tightly designed butler’s pantry is home to the washer and dryer, a small freezer and all manner of kitchen appliances and stuff-of-life extras, artfully hung and shelved on industrial-grade organizational racks from IKEA. In the dining area, a built-in window seat doubles as a discreet home for their Roomba vacuum. Despite the many details, the condo doesn’t feel cluttered.

An unusual feature in a condo this size, a highly functioning butler’s pantry/multi-purpose room was added behind the blue reeded Kitch cabinets in the far corner of the kitchen. Packed with sturdy industrial-size stainless-steel IKEA racks and shelving, the room is home to oversize kitchenware, a washer and dryer, an extra freezer and all the miscellaneous items that accrue in an active kitchen.

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THINKING OF RENOVATING A CONDO?

For condo and townhome owners, renovations start with a very important first step.

Additional millwork added along the side of the kitchen surrounds the Fisher & Paykel fridge and offers extra storage plus a mini-fridge under the side-bar area and shelving to accentuate knick-knacks the Scotts picked up during their travels.

“It’s absolutely essential that [homeowners] read their bylaws and rules closely to make sure that what they’re altering, they’re permitted to alter,” says Tony Gioventu, executive director of the Condominium Home Owners Association of BC. If renovations affect common property or elements, homeowners need permission. While exteriors, windows and doors are obvious common elements, problems arise if plumbing, mechanical and electrical elements are altered, which can affect other properties and result in insurance claims — for example, replacing a bathtub with a walk-in shower.

“There are alterations to the plumbing, the drainage, and there are alterations to an asset the strata corporation has to insure,” says Gioventu. “Technically speaking, the strata has to give consent.” Kitchen cabinetry may not be a problem, but moving electrical outlets and ventilation or installing a waterline for an icemaker can be, if not done by licensed tradespeople. Even simple changes can cause trouble — for example, replacing carpet with laminate or hardwood, which can result in noise issues for other units. Other considerations include construction work hours, elevator use, noise and debris disposal. “Get yourself an

agreement as to what’s going to happen,” says Gioventu. “The expectation is an owner who wants these alterations should be paying for all the costs. The problem is it becomes too casual sometimes.” And while it is important for strata councils to be vigilant, they also have to be reasonable. “They can’t impose unreasonable conditions. The strata is not really in a position to deny permission as long as the person is meeting building code requirements, getting building permits if necessary, and there’s no disruption to the common property or an adjacent strata lot.”

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Millwork in the glassed-in bedroom does double duty as a closet with ample upper storage for seasonal items, plus it functions as a vanity to free up the bathroom when Sam wants a little extra time getting ready. The Scotts chose a calming green fabric for their headboard, which extends across the back wall and features Kuzco flush-mount cylinder lights. The floor-toceiling glass panes were created by welder Bronte Freeman of Freeman Fabrication.

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“We were looking for a different lifestyle than [we had in] Alberta and to focus on travelling more and enjoying where we live, trying to be purposely conscious of what we buy and keeping it functional,” says Sam. “We really just wanted something fun and to get every square inch that we could for storage was our goal.” Eschewing traditional furniture in the bedroom, they added a built-in bed with floating bedside tables to maximize floor space, complete with a handmade green velvet headboard with built-in pendant lights. A custom wall vanity centred in the full-height millwork wardrobe allows Sam to get ready for the day without relying on the bathroom lights and mirror. They also made the unusual decision to enclose the bedroom — which is adjacent to the kitchen and living space — in glass. The floor-to-ceiling, large-paned glass walls, created by welder Bronte Freeman of Freeman Fabrication, allow ample light from the south-facing windows to filter through to the bedroom and down the hall toward the entrance on the opposite side of the condo. “For now, we don’t have any curtains — we can add them later if we want, but for now it’s just us,” says Sam.

TIP FOR CONDO BUYERS If you purchase a renovated condo, make sure the previous owners did things properly. Gioventu says there is a history of problems where condos were purchased, extensively renovated, then resold, leaving the new owners to deal with the issues.

The bathroom’s infloor heating and high ceilings give it an even more luxurious feel, complemented by the tub area’s waterfall quartz, Delta and Brizo fixtures and Kuzco lighting. Before

LIST OF RESOURCES DESIGN: Sam Scott, Boss Design | CARPENTRY: Brandon Scott, Sawbrand Finish Carpentry | GLASS WALL & OUTDOOR FURNITURE LEGS: Freeman Fabrication, Custom Fabrication & Furniture Design | KITCHEN CABINET FRONTS: Kitch | PLUMBER: Northern Star Plumbing | ELECTRICIAN: Citadel Electric BATHROOM LIGHTING & WATERFALL QUARTZ ON BATHTUB: Kuzco Lighting | KITCHEN FLUSH-MOUNT CYLINDER LIGHTS: Kuzco Lighting

Welcome home to Sidney All Care Residence ... We know our residents are happiest and most comfortable when surrounded by the comforts of home. This is why we decorate our suites in neutral tones and encourage families to add their own familiar touches and make their space unique to them.

Contact our General Manager Gilles Lacroix to book a visit today and learn how easy and comfortable a move from your home to ours will be.

778.351.2505

glacroix@allcarecanada.ca

AllCareCanada.ca

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LIVING DETAILS

BY NESSA PULLMAN

Accommodating Design PRO TIPS FOR MODIFYING YOUR MAIN LIVING AREA TO FIT YOUR LIFESTYLE.

t’s the place you retreat to after a long day at work, the place where you sit around the table with your loved ones over a good meal and where you create memories with friends and family. Enter: the living area. It’s the part of the home where you cook, dine, relax and entertain — all functions that directly affect your everyday life. Nicala Hicks, principal designer at Maven Design + Build, says the living area of your home should support your lifestyle and family needs or it will affect your overall experience in ways you may not realize. “The outside world takes a lot of energy out of you,” says Hicks. “Your home should be designed to promote ease and comfort.”

Hicks says most people are unaware of the areas in their homes that create visual chaos. “Furniture incorrectly placed, competing colours and finishes or unforgiving materials all contribute to an underlying irritation that adds to people’s stress,” she says. Eliminating that irritation and promoting more comfort in a multi-function area requires proper space planning. “The design of your living area is important because it has to function in a variety of different ways,” says Michele Putters, interior stylist at Spaciz. This is especially the case with today’s popular open-concept living areas, where planning in zones is crucial. Defined areas designated for cooking, eating, entertaining and relaxing are

“The outside world takes a lot of energy out of you. Your home should be designed to promote ease and comfort.”

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Above: Relaxation and entertainment are the focus here, where a super-comfy couch becomes front-row seating for the big screen or a place to snuggle up with a book. The area rug adds warmth and texture, and further designates this as a separate zone from the kitchen. Shelves and a coffee table with storage keep everything tidy.

the minimum requirements in any home, while a play area, a homework station or a pet room could also be high on the list for some. “The most critical question to ask yourself is, what are my family needs?” says Hicks. Whether you have children and need lots of space for toys and storage or you are empty nesters wanting to revamp your space for entertaining, your living area should be built for your lifestyle. “Your home should be designed to improve your life, not make it harder,” says Hicks. “It’s a practical foundation to create memories in.”

LANCE SULLIVAN/CONCEPT PHOTOGRAPHY LANCE SULLIVAN/CONCEPT PHOTOGRAPHY

GET IN THE ZONE

In a large open space, consider using structural elements to establish zones. In this condo by Spaciz, the built-in wood-andglass shelving (left) creates a more intimate dining space and serves as storage, without blocking all the light. The fireplace (above) is open on both sides, adding interest and warmth, while separating the home office from the space for relaxing and entertaining.

3 WAYS TO UPGRADE YOUR LIVING AREA 2

START IN NEUTRAL

Keep to a neutral colour palette throughout the overall space then add in a flash of colour — for example, with art, an area rug or window coverings. “These can be easily switched out over the years,” says Putters. Décor accessories such as pillows, throws, table runners, placemats, centrepieces and art can also add pops of colour and can even be changed seasonally for variety.

THINK MULTI-PURPOSE

The fluted doors of the Fortra coffee table from Article open wide to accommodate larger items, like boardgames.

NICALA HICKS

Because the living area needs to operate multifunctionally, having suitable storage to tuck things away easily is important. An uncluttered family space also helps guests feel more welcomed. Think multipurpose furniture with drawers, cabinets that close and cubbies that makes tidying up quick and easy. “Buying an attractive coffee table with built-in storage provides a function to both your family and your guests,” says Putters.

In this project by Maven Design + Build, an abstract painting by local artist Lauren Mycroft, well-chosen plants and a coffee table in warm tones add colour, balance and interest to a neutral palette.

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THE EXPERT ADVANTAGE When it comes to making design changes, homeowners may look to doing it themselves, but there are benefits to having a professional eye review your plans. “A designer can see the big picture and then work backwards,” says Hicks. “The biggest mistake I see DIYers make is doing small bits at a time without working towards a cohesive vision.”

VICTORIA’S HOME & D E S I G N MAGAZINE

sprucemagazine.ca

Your source for inspiring homes and interiors FOLLOW THE STEPS No matter the scale of your project, Hicks says, always start with the same three steps:

Even if you decide against hiring a designer for the whole project, you may find a consultation at the beginning useful, even to 1 Determine help break the your goals. project into phases. 2 Decide on a “After discussing design style. their goals, we can create a plan 3 Create a they can run with, budget. knowing it will coincide with their end target,” says Hicks. If you want to reuse items, a designer can also help you use what you already have in your home to support your new vision. “We see the overall intent and find creative ways to make it happen,” says Putters. A designer can take your goals and integrate them with what you already have, which may mean decluttering for more visual ease, updating throw pillows and curtains, or re-zoning with your current furniture. “We can find ways to breathe new life into old items,” says Putters.

“We see the overall intent and find creative ways to make it happen.”

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SMALL FIXES

BY CAROLYN CAMILLERI

It’s the Little Things TRADITIONAL OR MODERN OPTIONS FOR FAST, EASY CHANGES THAT CAN BRIGHTEN YOUR SPACE.

Mirror Makeover Revamp your bathroom with one simple change — the mirror. It is surprising how a mirror can change the room, especially if you have been living with a builder-grade mirror. Depending on what you do have, you may need to patch a few holes or repaint. If that is a bigger project than you want to undertake, choose a mirror large enough to cover whatever you may discover behind the old one. The fun part is choosing the mirror. Do you go with a more traditional framed mirror? Or something sleek and modern? Astoria Grand Valrie oval wood mirror, Wayfair (far left) and the Whirlwind mirror, Luxe Home Interiors.

Knock, knock Here is a quirky fact: the tradition of hanging door knockers with gruesome faces — gargoyles, dragons and other beasts — can be traced to the Middle Ages when they were believed to ward off evil spirits. Tamer designs — lions, garlands, faces, hands, birds — reflected the fashions of the times and the skills of the makers. Today, door knockers are less about evil spirits and more about adding a beautiful finishing touch to the entrance to your home. Choose from contemporary designs or more traditional. Or go really traditional and put up a gargoyle.

Feel the Pull

Below left: Hexagonal solid brass door knocker, PlankHardware (Etsy). Right: Antique brass mission knocker, Waterglass Studios. Above: Atlas Homewares Erika pull, available through Victoria Speciality Hardware. Below: Eneryda cup cabinet pull, IKEA.

The fastest kitchen upgrade ever is changing your cabinet hardware. It may seem like a small change (until you count how many you need), but the difference can be amazing. The choices abound, traditional and modern — but do think ahead. Choose replacement pulls with fasteners that match what you have now if you want to reuse the existing drill holes. Of course, the holes left behind can be filled with wood putty and painted over, but it will make your relatively quick afternoon project more complicated. You can also choose pulls with back plates that cover the old holes, but it is a chunkier look and you will need to drill new holes — very straight.

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IN MEMORIAM

Spruce magazine and the development community are mourning the recent and sudden passing of Ryan Goodman. Goodman was principal and general manager of Victoria’s Aryze Developments, as well as a director of supportive and affordable housing provider, Pacifica Housing. Affable and always eager to explain his projects, Goodman was featured several times in the pages of Spruce magazine, notably for multi-unit townhomes, like Pearl Block and Leeward, both of which showcased Aryze’s savvy for creating statementmaking, urban infill housing. His conversations with this magazine were often philosophical and educational. Goodman had a visionary’s comprehension of an urban esthetic that was neither shy nor over-thetop bold. It was all about form following function. His penchant for leading-edge design and his ability to fit those designs into some unusual, and often tiny, building lots brought Aryze international attention. Ryan Goodman was 41.

JEFFREY BOSDET/SPRUCE MAGAZINE

SPRUCE | WINTER 2022

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