Living Spaces Fall 2015 by Postmedia Saskatchewan

L I VI NG

SPACES

TH E OF F IC I A L M A G A Z I N E O F THE SASKATOOn & REGION HOME BUILDERS’ ASSOC IATION

contents

F E AT U R E S 10

AT HOME: University infill reflects family’s personality

THE YEAR OF THE CONDO: Saskatoon builders focus on multi-family developments

URBAN GARDENS set Living Stone apart

COZY UP: Choosing the ideal area rug

40 REAL TIME BUILD: The new home journey begins

44 Dream launches first multifamily projects in Saskatoon 55

ACHIEVING AWESOME: Whole home renovation transforms Silverwood home

AUTUMN 2015 EDITOR Jeannie Armstrong

63 52

24 COMMUNITY: Lake Vista tailored for family living

DESIGN & R E N O VAT I O N

30 ASK AN EXPERT: Maison Fine Homes 36

ASK AN EXPERT: Fresco Interiors Design Group

TRAILBLAZERS: Sun Ridge Residential

20 CURB APPEAL

starts at the front door

Walk-in closets you’ll never want to walk out of

THE DESIGNER TOUCH

What inspires you?

60 WISH LIST: The ultimate master bath

43 ASK AN EXPERT: The Mortgage Architects 46 INNOVATION: Bone Structure revolutionizes framing process 58

NEW MEMBER PROFILE: Vox Development ASK AN EXPERT: Sheila Ashdown Century 21 Fusion

D E PA R T M E N T S 7

Message from the Saskatoon & Region Home Builders’ Association

From the Editor

FOOD & E N T E R TA I N I N G

ASK AN EXPERT: New Home Warranty Program of Saskatchewan

IN THE KITCHEN:

Riversdale Delicatessen & Market

ART DIRE C TION Chris Macknie Lesley Cockburn PHOTOG R APHY Jeff Lyons Elaine Mark CONTRIB UTING WRITERS Jeannie Armstrong Jennifer Jacoby-Smith Hilary Klassen Blair Braitenbach Tom Eremondi Jesse Green Ashleigh Mattern PROJECT COORDINATION Karen Kobussen Doreen Greenwood PUBLISHE R The StarPhoenix

Living Spaces is published by The StarPhoenix on behalf of the Saskatoon & Region Home Builders’ Association To reserve your advertising space in the upcoming edition of Living Spaces, contact (306) 657-6369 or email: dgreenwood@thestarphoenix.com 3

315 Ledingham Drive, Rosewood

A gated community you’ll be proud to call home.

Photo credit - Doug Orr

Photo Credit - Layne Schroeder

• security fenced and gated townhome community • fully landscaped with automatic sprinklers • preselected exteriors, paving stone driveways • wide selection of floorplan types including several walkout basements

ONLY NINE UNITS LEFT! Robert • 306-260-9145

Joanne • 306-260-3122

Saskatoon’s Choice for New Home Builder, 6 years in a row!!

306-374-3939

boychukconst@sasktel.net

www.boychukhomes.com

A Message from SASKATOON & REGION HOME BUILDERS’ ASSOCIATION

B y K aren K obussen Director of operations Saskatoon & Region Home Builders’ Association P: (306) 955-5188 E: info@saskatoonhomebuilders.com

Raise your hand if you’ve heard this conversation: “When we were young, we didn’t wear sunscreen and we survived! We played in the dirt in our bare feet and stayed outside until it got dark and rode our bikes without helmets! People nowadays are just overdoing it with all these precautions!” Yep… and you probably walked to school uphill both ways, too. I also grew up at a time when there were fewer rules and even fewer precautions, but times have changed. These days, we wouldn’t dream of sending our kids outside on a hot summer day without sunscreen or a hat. Or going out on a freezing winter’s day without mitts and boots. Who gets into a car without putting on a seatbelt? When all is said and done, every precaution we take is for one reason only – prevention. Whether these precautions are due to rules implemented by authority (speed limits and child car seats) or are ubiquitous in our daily lives (bug spray and bike helmets), taking precautions to prevent injury and stay safe is simple common sense. We all want to be safe, healthy and do what we can to prevent accident, injury and illness. Let’s also think about where we work. Almost every company in Saskatchewan (dependent on size) must have an Occupational Health & Safety Committee, by law. Establishing safety best practices, introducing workplace safety prevention strategies, even going so far as to enforce company policies and safety regulations are a sample of the OH&S Committee’s responsibilities. Health and safety programs apply to every industry, every company and every type of work setting. The reasons for this are pretty simple: the only acceptable number of workplace injuries in Saskatchewan is zero, and every employer needs to do everything they can to ensure their workers go home safe every single day. So, the question is: If we care so much

about injury prevention and safety at home and where we work, why do we not care about it when we hire renovators, contractors and trades people to work on our homes? How many people reading this have EVER asked that as the very first question when hiring a contractor? If everyone did as much research and due diligence when we hired a contractor as we did when we bought a new car, as consumers we could eliminate underground ‘fly-by-night’ cash contractors who pervade this industry. If your contractor is going to cut corners on their own workers’ safety, where else are they cutting corners? Every homeowner wants a quality built home or renovation that is on time, on budget, with zero deficiencies. Knowing that you’ve chosen a contractor who is committed to zero injuries should be a high priority. The risks are too great if your contractor or builder has no regard for your safety or their workers’ safety. Ask your contractor the tough questions before you agree to hire them. Ask the contractor to see a copy of their liability insurance and a letter of clearance from WCB. Make sure you are protected in the event of an incident or accident on your property, but more importantly, make sure your contractor cares about everyone getting home safely, every day. Members of the Saskatoon & Region Home Builders’ Association are proud of their commitment to the safety and well-being of their customers, their employees and their families. And they aren’t afraid to answer your toughest questions… trust me! And always, always, always get a written contract! This issue of Living Spaces is filled with great ideas and inspiration to make your dream space a reality… and when you find that perfect idea, call the Saskatoon & Region Home Builders Association to find your perfect contractor! LS 7

FROM THE EDITOR

Welcome J eannie A rmstrong

E ditor E: jarmstrong@thestarphoenix.com

Home is where the heart is! That sense of belonging and pride of ownership can be experienced no matter what the size or style of your house is. In this edition of Living Spaces, you can enjoy a fascinating look inside the lives and homes of three different Saskatoon families! Join us as we visit Tamara and Carey Bowman, in their charming University-area infill home, which Tamara has renovated and decorated to reflect their family’s lifestyle and personality. Next stop is the Silverwood residence of David and Terrie Kostur. The décor and layout of their home was stuck in the ’80s, necessitating a “whole home” renovation. The transformation is amazing! Our third couple is just setting out on

their new home journey. Now empty-nesters, Judy Guenther and Reg Aupperle are making the transition from owning a large family home to the condo lifestyle. Living Spaces will follow the progress of their custom condo build over the next year. The statistics reveal that 2015 is definitely “the year of the condo” in Saskatoon. Writer Hilary Klassen reports on the shift in focus to multi-family developments by local home builders and the impact this is having on our city. Our popular “In The Kitchen” series continues, as writer Jennifer Jacoby-Smith visits the Riversdale Delicatessen and Market. Check out chef Darby Kells’ tasty recipes and give them a try in your own kitchen. Enjoy!

FROM INSPIRATION

TO INSTALLATION

WE TALL INS all st

.ca/in

rona

3 WAYS TO SAVE

IN-STORE SIGN UP OFFER, GET

START SAVING

RIGHT AWAY

% CASH BACK IN RONA GIFT CARDS

ANNUALLY, GET UP TO

with your ﬁrst in-store RONA card purchase. Minimum purchase: $1,000/$250 max cash back.*

% CASH BACK IN RONA GIFT CARDS†

EFFORT

Ask about it at the service counter

SASKATOON 1722 PRESTON AVE N. 306-933-1903 *Eligibility subject to Fédération des caisses Desjardins du Québec approval. Certain conditions apply. Offer valid on a new RONA credit card in-store application made at participating dealer. The cash back in RONA gift card is valid on the first in-store purchase of $1,000 or more including taxes, made with any financing plan offer in store, the same day you apply. Offer applicable on merchandise sales a regular price, in rebate and on special orders. Offer does not apply on (i) costs of services offered in store such as installation, delivery, rentals, cut services, etc. and (ii) purchase of gift cards, previous purchases, layaways, in-store accounts or clients holding specific contractual agreement. The amount received in a RONA gift card is applicable on a next purchase only and the use of this Gift Card shall mean the acceptance of the terms and conditions written on the back of the card. RONAdvantages is addressed to the consumer only. Cannot be combined with any other promotional offer with the exception of AIR MILES® Bonus offers. This offer may end or may be changed without notice. Terms and conditions available in store or www.ronadvantages.ca. †Eligibility subject to Fédération des caisses Desjardins du Québec (“the Federation”) approval. Certain conditions apply. The Gift Card cash back is established according to a percentage ranging from 2 to 5 % calculated on the total net (before taxes) yearly transactions exceeding $2,000 charged to the RONA card and made at RONA. The cash back in RONA Gift Cards is limited annually to $1,000. Details in store. ®™ Trademarks of AIR MILES International Trading B.V. Used under license by LoyaltyOne, Co. and RONA. 9

AT HOME

Tamara Bowman, owner of Metric Design Centre, has infused her family’s University-area infill home with warmth and personality. Hanging out in the family’s great room are (left to right) Bennett, Ella, Tamara and Carey Bowman.

University infill home reflects family’s personality b y J eannie A rmstrong Photos b y E laine M ark , D & M I mages

The gingerbread-style duplex looks like it has always been part of the century-old neighbourhood adjacent to the University of Saskatchewan campus. In actuality, the side-by-side semi-detached houses were constructed in 1997 as an infill project, designed to harmonize with the existing neighbourhood. For the past nine years, the 15th Street East duplex has been home to the family of Tamara and Carey Bowman. Tamara Bowman is the lead designer and founder of Metric Design Centre in Saskatoon. Carey Bowman is co-owner of Lucky Bastard Distillers. The couple and their two children, daughter Ella and son Bennett, reside in one side of the charming duplex with their pet dogs, Jemma, a chocolate lab, and Layla, a bichon frisé.

Tamara explains that the duplex was originally constructed by her parents. “They are big fans of San Francisco’s architectural style. That was their design influence.” The Bowmans love how well the 18 yearold home blends in so well with other houses on the block, which are decades older in comparison. “There are a lot of infills that maybe shouldn’t be where they are, but this home really belongs,” says Tamara. The front-to-back split level home has 2,500 square feet of interior space extending over five different levels, as well as a basement revenue suite and an underground garage. “The layout has just been so awesome for our family,” says Tamara. Tamara’s passion for design is reflected throughout the home’s interior. Many of the materials, trims and finishes – including

ntre,

ht)

cabinetry and flooring − used to create the home’s distinctive décor were sourced from Metric Design Centre, says Tamara. “My goal for this house was to mix elements of rustic texture with contemporary features.” Visitors to the home are welcomed into a large tiled foyer. A windowlike opening in the wall dividing the foyer from the living room opens up the space. The Bowmans’ living room lives up to its name. “This really is a living room,” says Tamara. “We use it every day. We eat in front of the TV; we have movie nights here. This is where our family hangs out.” Tamara chose rich leather plank flooring by Torlys for the high traffic living room. “The leather flooring ended up being a wonderful choice. It has stood up better than any other kind of flooring we’ve had in this room, even with two dogs,” says Tamara. “It’s an awesome flooring choice, because it’s natural, soft and so crazy durable. We’ve had it for years and any small signs of wear are barely noticeable.” The room’s natural gas fireplace is clad in a linen-textured porcelain tile from Metric Design Centre, adding textural interest to the room. “We integrated drawers into the fireplace surround, allowing potential clutter to be tucked away,” says Tamara. The kitchen, dining room, sitting area and powder room are on the next level of the home. Carey presides over the kitchen, preparing the family’s favourite meals. “I get frustrated if anyone else gets in the kitchen,” laughs Carey, who loves the industrial-style stainless steel appliances. “It’s a small kitchen with a huge island. The kitchen is really well designed with awesome storage, including appliance garages. It encourages us to put everything in its place, which is good, because we tend to collect stuff. My staff teases me that I’m such a pack rat!” says Tamara. The cabinets are stained a unique deep teal colour complemented by a black-and-white graphic print tile backsplash. “It really adds personality to the room,” says Tamara. Adjacent to the kitchen is a dining area, overlooking a gorgeous perennial-filled back yard. The comfy window seat is a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoor view.

The children’s rooms are on the home’s third level. Each room boasts large picture windows, which enhances the airiness of the space. “Both rooms share a balcony which extends along the front of the house,” says Tamara. She decorated Ella’s room to capture her daughter’s sense of whimsy. Contrasting colours and patterns play together in this enchanting room. A chalkboard paint feature wall is a canvas for Ella’s own creativity. The large bay window and angled walls in Bennett’s room were painted in contrasting panels of cool tan and deep purple. “The bay window really adds to the feeling of spaciousness in the room,” says Tamara. The home’s master suite is a few steps up on the home’s fourth level. Huge picture windows extend along one entire wall, bringing the beauty of the mature back yard indoors. The master bedroom is truly a personal retreat, with a large ensuite, walk-in closet and a private balcony. A large sun-filled alcove in the room was transformed into a home office for Carey. “I created the space, including a photo wall, for Carey as a surprise for his 35th birthday. He didn’t have an office at home and didn’t have a lot of space for all his stuff. It’s a really cool space,” says Tamara.

One wall of the home office is lined with elegant white glass cabinets, equipped with interior lighting. When the lights are turned on, the cabinets take on an opaque tone with a subtle glow. The fifth level of the house is a dramatic loft which the Bowmans use as a guest room. Accessible by a timber-style ladder, the loft room is as much a conversation piece as it is a functional area of the home. “We just recently redid the loft, installing a coffered ceiling,” says Tamara. A glass railing system ensures that the room’s view of the rest of the house isn’t obscured. Tamara reports that two new design projects have captured her attention. She is currently working on the final renovations to Metric Design Centre’s new location at 285 Venture Crescent, in the former Ens Toyota showroom. The new location will offer Metric Design so much more space for its ever-expanding design gallery and product samples. Tamara anticipates that Metric Design Centre will make the move to Venture Crescent early in November. The Bowmans also plan to do a complete gut-and-renovation of a River Heights home they have purchased, with construction set to begin in April of 2016. “We’re taking down all the walls, right down to the foundation, so it’s going to be a really big job,” says Tamara. “It’s got a bit of a river view, which will be nice.” The extreme renovation project will be managed by the Metric Design Team, adds Tamara. “At Metric Design Centre, we do whole home renovations all the time. This one is kind of extreme, but it’s what we have to do to achieve the home we have in mind.” LS

The Difference is Clear We sell and install windows, doors and hardware for both new construction and renovation projects. In-home quotes and consultations available. Experienced, knowledgeable staff always on site. SASKATOON DOORS & MORE (1986) INC.

Visit us at our NEW location - 2835A Cleveland Ave (North of Boston Pizza on 51st Street).

2835A Cleveland Avenue, Saskatoon, SK S7K 8G1 Ph (306) 242-7550

The

Year condo of The

Saskatoon builders focus on multi-family developments

By HILARY KLASSEN

Above: North Ridge Development Corp. has shifted their multi-family focus recently to include more townhome units. They have multi-family projects in Saskatoon and Martensville and continue to build single family homes. (Photo: North Ridge Developments)

The market for multi-family housing in Saskatoon has been heating up over the past several years. In 2014, the number of multifamily housing starts rose by 48 per cent over the previous year to 1,954 units. This strong performance also represents the first time in 10 years that multi-family starts surpassed single-detached starts in Saskatoon, according to Goodson Mwale, CMHC Senior Market Analyst for the prairies. The number of apartment condos under construction also rose to a 30-year high in 2014, he says. While those latter numbers are easing a bit, Mwale says the inventory of row units like townhouses is up 120 per cent in the first five months of this year, compared to May 2014. You have only to tour new areas of the city for confirmation that builders are busy constructing multi-family housing, which includes semi-detached, row housing (like townhomes), and condo apartments. Mwale points to employment growth as one of the key drivers for housing demand. In 2013, employment grew at a rate of 7.5 per cent and in 2014 that rate was 3 per cent, still quite a good number, he says. “The second most important driver in the

last few years, in Saskatchewan as a province and in Saskatoon is net migration − the number of people that are coming to the province and specifically to Saskatoon from other parts of the world and also from other centres or provinces in Canada,” says Mwale. The entire housing market, across building types, has been enjoying a boom over the past six to seven years. When new or existing residents look around to see what’s available, they run into the issue of affordability. “Through this boom, housing prices have just ballooned beyond what we ever thought they would be here in Saskatoon,” says Derek Thompson, Land Development Project Manager for the City. “For somebody to get into a basic middle-range existing house, not a new house, would be around $350,000. Probably the least expensive single family house in new construction generally, would be in that well over $400,000 range. They can get into a multi-family property for quite a bit less than that.” Some builders point to the price of land as a key factor in putting that single family home out of reach for some buyers. “Land costs and land availability have contributed to more

multi-family construction in Saskatoon,” says Alex Miller, co-founder and CEO of Innovative Residential. “With increasing land costs, many builders have had to consider different styles of homes in order to achieve more affordable price points for buyers.” Errol Fisher, Vice-President of Operations for North Ridge Development Corporation, agrees. “The City and other developers are coming out with more and more multi-family land for that reason.” North Ridge has shifted their multi-family focus recently, from strictly apartment condos to some townhome sites. “Our multifamily projects now consist of about 30 per cent townhome sites and 70 per cent apartment condos,” says Fisher. Some demographic groups seek multifamily housing as a lifestyle choice. Young families and empty-nesters have traditionally found multi-family to be a great option for their stage in life. Thompson says many newcomers who migrate here from other countries are accustomed to apartment living and find multi-family housing a readily acceptable choice. “Some of the things that people like to have as a part of their lifestyle are technology and convenience,” says Al Reisinger of Riverbend Developments Ltd. “There’s a convenience factor built into condo living that’s not there with single detached traditional housing markets − just being able to lock the door and go.” It’s a factor that’s universal to all condo projects, regardless of market conditions or economic growth. “I think technology is allowing for a much greater degree of control and security within condo projects, whether it be hightech locks, thermostats, lighting, all those different kinds of computerized things people find very appealing,” he adds. Thompson finds a number of multi-family builders have begun to create more environmentally sustainable multi-family housing. At Innovative Residential, Miller says they’ve been striving for years to design and build homes that achieve greater energy efficiency for their homeowners. “We have committed ourselves to building ENERGY STAR® certified homes. Not only does this increase the quality of the home, it results in lower heating and cooling costs, and the level of home comfort is increased for our families.” Parliament Pointe Condominiums in Regina is installing hundreds of solar panels in their new development in Harbour Landing, providing attractive energy savings to buyers, and initiating solar energy solutions on a scale unprecedented in the province. Other innovations include stacked housing, with

Riverbend Developments offers townhomes in Rosewood (seen here) and Willowgrove, as well as apartment condominiums in Willowgrove. (Photo: Hilary Klassen) units built elsewhere and assembled on the development site. Builders are also demonstrating greater variety in design and floor plans. “You’re seeing a little bit more modern and contemporary styles, and more innovation come into effect,” says Thompson. There’s also a move away from the ‘one-size fits all’ approach. Whereas previously, unit size within a building was fairly uniform, now we’re seeing a greater variety of sizes in one building – some 700 square foot units and some 1,400 square foot units, he says. Multi-family housing is likely here to stay. Reisinger says in urban planning circles

the mantra is all about density. “The infrastructure under where we live, whether that be roads and utilities, is less costly where there’s a little bit more concentrated living space than being spread out. In addition, with land being such a high component cost to building, if you can fit more product in a smaller area, that saving in turn gets passed along to those people who are buying.” Density has been planned into more of the city’s new suburban neighbourhoods. “At 8.7 units per acre, Evergreen will be the most dense neighbourhood to date in Saskatoon, even denser than City Park, for example,” says Thompson.

Visit saskatoon.ca and click on land development to see a larger version of this map of Evergreen, which illustrates the amount of land given to multi-family development. (Image: City of Saskatoon)

Innovative Residential CEO, Alex Miller, says the cost of land in Saskatoon has caused builders to consider different styles of homes to achieve more affordable price points for buyers. The builder has committed itself to building ENERGY STAR® certified homes. (Photo: Innovative Residential)

JEFF STEWART 1.306.222.3233

www.stewartrealty.ca

If you are interested in a new build and you have questions please call me directly

Saskatoon

Proud to be a representative of

Developers and builders have more than answered the demand for affordable multi-family housing. Whether there is now a surplus of land designated for multi-family housing, given current economic conditions, remains to be seen. “Land developers are working together with builders to constantly consider market demand while continuing to ensure a broad range of housing types is available to meet the needs of our community,” says Miller. LS

In 2014, the number of multi-family housing units under construction rose 48 per cent over the previous year, and represents the first time in 10 years that multi’s have outpaced single family starts, according to Goodson Mwale, prairies senior market analyst for CMHC. Source: Housing Now, Saskatoon CMA report by CMHC.

This is why you Love Coming Home!

ﬂoform.com or call 877 FLOFORM 10-710 Cynthia St., Saskatoon Canada

Curb appeal

Charlene Schumacher of Fresco Interiors Design Group enhanced the curb appeal of this stunning dream home in Rosewood.

starts at the front door

b y J esse G reen P H O T O S B Y J E F F LY O N S

An inviting front exterior is all in the details with everything from the front door and exterior cladding to outdoor lighting, plants and accessories all playing into the overall sense of curb appeal. We talked to awardwinning designer Charlene Schumacher of Fresco Interiors Design Group Inc. about how to put together a front exterior that turns heads. Mix it up Embrace variety, not only with material combinations but with shades of colour. On Charlene Schumacher’s ‘Dream Home’ located at 527 Hastings in Rosewood, there are three shades of stucco and two types of stone. Using many different colours and materials can work beautifully, but only if textures are utilized strategically. “The information I would give to someone is to make sure they balance the visual weight of the dark stucco against the light,” Schumacher says. And this leads to tip number two, which is a biggie:

Watch the undertone! Schumacher has been called on to rescue clients who thought they were choosing grey or taupe for stucco colour but actually ended up with a peach, pink or purple undertone. So, the big caution is to pay close attention to those colour undertones. You can do this by asking your stucco fabricator to make large samples and then testing them on-site. Take them to the home, view them in the actual lighting conditions and with your materials for the true colour. The same goes for long boards, hardy plank or siding; take samples to their potential home and view them there. Stone first, please If you have decided on a stone application, consider choosing it as a starting point. There are a limited amount of options of this natural element, while acrylic stucco can be formulated in thousands of colours and other finishes also come in a huge range of shades.

Balance, balance, balance In addition to distributing like-colours, think about that fine line between adding interest and cluttering up the view. Too many details, when not styled properly, can look disconnected. “You want things to feel interesting, but balanced. It is not a science, but more of a visual balance of symmetry,” says Schumacher. We naturally look to the light The eye is naturally drawn to the lightest area. So, even if you have a beautifully-styled entrance, a quick glance is going to that white garage door. Decide which focal points you want to highlight in your home’s exterior and work in some lighter colours or pockets of lighting to draw the eye to that area. A great front door A distinctive front door is often the first thing you see in a home and can be the calling card of curb appeal. The choices for a stylish exterior door are endless with sidelight options, distinctive shapes and all manner of glass accents available. As with any design element, the overall feel of the home should be taken into account for this option. The colour experts at Farrow and Ball Paints suggest painting your front door and frame in one colour to make your entry stand out and look bigger. Choose a colour that best reflects your personality. For a bold look, splash on a coat of apple green, tangerine orange, lemon yellow or tomato red. If it’s elegance you’re after, look to darker tones of royal purple, merlot, sage green, or slate grey. For the look of wood with a great R-value and maintenance-free finish, look to fibreglass. These durable doors have insulated cores and are a good choice for cold climates. Metal doors have the foam insulation and generally a good price point, but they can tend to dent more easily. Wood is a good candidate for custom design, and is a material that always offers warmth and character. Wood is beautiful and versatile, and can be found in a variety of hard woods like oak, mahogany, cherry and walnut. Doors that require paint will be found in western hemlock or pine. To accent these design recommendations, there are any number of easy tasks that can be accomplished to further enhance your home’s curb appeal. A fresh coat of paint, a manicured lawn and seasonal accessories all add up to a well-maintained home. Mailboxes, stylish house numbers and porch lights also add personality. Fresco Interiors Design Group Inc. can be found online at www. frescointeriors.ca. LS 21

Q A

ASK AN EXPERT

about third party new home warranty

Denise Mildner, CEO

New Home Warranty Program of Saskatchewan Inc. 306.373.7833

director@nhwp.org www.nhwp.org

BUYING A NEW HOME? PROTECT YOUR INVESTMENT

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

www.nhwp.org #4 - 3012 Louise St. E, Saskatoon 22

(306) 373-7833

Q: We have just taken possession of our newly constructed home. We’ve noticed that the humidity level in the home is surprisingly high. Is this something we should expect in our first year of home ownership? A: New homes today are built better and more efficiently than ever! With new changes, comes new information for the homeowner. It is important for the homeowners to understand what will occur normally in the first year of occupancy and what responsibilities they have to ensure that no issues develop. After a home is constructed, it is normal that there will be high humidity in the home as it dries out. Although the cement foundation is essentially dry, it will continue to release humidity into the air, as will other building products. During that first year, you may even find that the windows frost up on occasion. You will need to adjust your HVAC system accordingly. It is recommended that humidity be set at around 40 per cent in the spring and fall and adjusted down to 25 per cent in the winter. To ensure proper levels at all times, the HVAC system needs to be left running all year long. Maintaining the correct humidity level is very important as humidity not only affects your living conditions but can cause damage to the home as well. Low humidity is common in the winter months. Dryness can cause wood floors to shrink and even cause your piano to go out of tune. Humidity will increase as more people live in the house and with the frequency of cooking and showering. Humidity that is too high will cause paint to peel and can become a breeding ground for mold, rot and insects. Equally important is the proper maintenance of your HVAC system. Just as you need to take care of your car and change the oil, you must also maintain your home and all its parts! It is recommended that a professional service technician service the system every 12 months and that filters be cleaned every three months. Clean filters and coils mean better breathing for the entire family. Maintaining your systems so they remain energy efficient also means more money in your pocket! As a warranty provider, the New Home Warranty Program of Saskatchewan promotes preventative maintenance. Controlling the humidity in your home is of utmost importance!

S L

Locally owned & manufactured serving Saskatoon & area for over 25 years!

Proud supplier of the Saskatoon Hospital Home Lottery. Custom cabinetry designed by Atmosphere Interior Design.

COMMUNITY

Lake Vista tailored for family living b y B lair B raitenbach

If you were to stop and ask people in Martensville what it is they love about their small-yet-growing city, you can bet they’d say it’s the family-friendly atmosphere, numerous amenities, extensive parks system and safe neighbourhoods. North Ridge Development Corporation’s Lake Vista is taking these established concepts and building upon them to offer a premier way of life for new residents both young and old. Lake Vista is a 160-acre master-planned neighbourhood located in the southeast corner of Martensville. The city’s newest community will one day be home to approximately 3,000 individuals. By considering what entices people to the prairie municipality only minutes from Saskatoon, Jessica Bonish, North Ridge Development’s Marketing Manager, explains that Lake Vista promotes an active and community-minded lifestyle through smart, tailored planning. “The main thing is the connectivity; it’s carefully designed to create a very walkable environment. It really facilitates that small town vibe by encouraging people to get out and about and see what the city has to offer,” she says.

Some of the key features that speak to Lake Vista’s functionality include thoughtful streetscapes and an abundance of dedicated greenspace. As Bonish notes, the two fully-developed parks complete with paved pathways and dual man-made lakes ensure families can access nature’s treasures right outside their backdoor. Being a “master-planned” residential community means that the neighbourhood will be self-sufficient in terms of amenities and infrastructure while providing access to other city amenities. In addition to existing homes for sale, lots can also be purchased by individuals and builders. “With a variety of lot types available, including walkouts, you can determine which lots will suit you best,” Bonish says. As one of the fastest growing cities in Western Canada, the Province of Saskatchewan approved a multi-use elementary school to be constructed right in Lake Vista. The joint-use facility – which will be home to both the Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools and Prairie Spirit School Division – has an expected completion date of 2017. A proposed daycare is also in the works. The educational structure will add to the mu-

nicipality’s other two elementary schools and high school. While Bonish highlights Lake Vista’s family-oriented benefits, she notes the community also provides a welcoming environment for single adults, couples and retirees. The neighbourhood has allotted space for a variety of multi-family units, including townhouses and condominiums. Projects under development include Aspen Parke Estates, a 24-suite, four-storey apartmentstyle condo featuring two-bedroom units, full balconies for entertaining, modern and spacious kitchens, elevators and an underground heated parking lot. According to the Aspen Parke Estates’ website, the luxurious living space “is an adult-orientated condominium with a lovely atmosphere and quiet demeanour that offers an affordable alternative to big city living.” Adding to Martensville’s ever-increasing list of conveniences, Lake Vista will include an 11-acre commercial area, that once complete will be open to a range of retail, restaurant and other service industries. The shopping centre will complement the city’s already vibrant economy, which includes the newly opened CanAlta Hotel, McDonald’s restaurant, Co-op gas bar and Pharmasave,

to name just a few. “Many people already live in Lake Vista as it starts to pick up and gain momentum,” Bonish attests. “And you’re starting to see an increase in traffic to the community’s show homes as people begin to recognize the value of the area as well as being able to live so close to Saskatoon.” As Bonish points out, a significant portion of the municipality’s population commutes to work in the surrounding area. With the Ministry of Highways and Infrastructure’s announcement to build a new overpass into the city’s southeast corner, traffic to and from Martensville will continue to improve. Recreational facilities such as the nearby stateof-the-art Martensville Athletic Pavilion and 60-acre Kinsmen Park, residents new and old have even more reason to call Lake Vista home. “Though Martensville is a city, it has a nice, safe small town feel to it,” Bonish says. “There is always a lot of activity taking place – people connecting with friends at the bakery and that sort of thing. North Ridge has been developing and building in Martensville for over 20 years, so we’re very excited to have a full development that will continue to help it grow that much more.” LS

Enhance your garage and de-clutter your home.

Come See our 6300 sq. ft. Showroom in Saskatoon

6300 sq. ft. Showroom

3122A Millar Ave

933-4320

M-F 9-5 | Sat 10-4 Evenings by appointment www.customgarages.ca 25

Walk-in you’ll closets never want to walk out of b y J esse G reen

Rummage no longer: the luxury walk-in closet is working its way up the ‘must-have’ list for many new homeowners, with sprawling boudoirs a top priority. Having clothes, shoes, hats, belts and ties at the ready is a beautifully functional way to start and end the day. “Walk-in closets are definitely becoming more important with the new generation buyer. They want their walk-in closet to feel like a high-end boutique store,” says Doug Elder of Pure Developments Inc. When working with walk-in closets, Pure Developments is often called on to set up functional spaces that have that boutique feel and incorporate features like seating and laundry chutes. “It’s interesting how a walk-in closet used to be just a closet behind a door, with a hanging rod and maybe a couple shelves. Now there are all sorts of capacity,” he says. So what takes a closet from drab to fab? Aside from some basic design principles like colour choices and lighting, it boils down to accessibility. The use of all available space, ceiling to floor and wall to wall, 26

can be achieved by using roll-out boxes on the floor, baskets on high shelves and open shelving for foldable clothes. Real estate is maximized by keeping go-to items at eye level and stashing your off-season clothing and formal wear to harder-to-reach areas. Dedicated storage for different items is a definite must. Say goodbye to the scatterings of jewellery boxes and group all your gems in a pull-out tray or drawer. When you can view all your necklaces, bracelets and rings at a glance, you’ll be more likely to wear them. The same goes for scarves, belts, ties, shoes and handbags. Clear plastic boxes, open shelves, pull-out racks and hooks allow accessories to be at your fingertips. The valet rod can be mounted or installed as a slide-out option. It’s a great way to plan your outfit for the next day, or set aside some items for an upcoming trip. Choosing a high-gloss white for shelving complements the lighting while setting it aside as a dressing area rather than just another set of kitchen cabinetry. Light colours work well with small spaces and in areas where natural light isn’t available. Using different lighting styles like chandeliers, pot lighting and sconces also enhance the space, contributing to a lounge-like feel while boosting the functionality of the room.

TIPS FOR SHAPING UP YOUR CLOSET The question of how much space to set aside for each item is often best answered after a closet purge. Sorting, donating, chucking and organizing a closet is definitely a skill! Garments that are in regular rotation make up only a quarter of the total wardrobe for many people. Test yourself by arranging all the hangers in one direction. Each time a garment is returned, hang it in the opposite direction. Count the turned hangers after a week or two; chances are it will be a small selection. To make those tough decisions, sort through the closet and ask these questions of each piece of clothing. If the answers to any of these questions are ‘no,’ it may be time to set it free. • Does it fit me well? • Does it make me look good? • Is it comfortable? • Does it still suit my lifestyle? • Have I worn it in the past year? • Is it stain-free? • Is it in style? • Is it just plain worn out? Once you know what the ‘keep’ pile is like you can figure out how many hangers you’ll need. Using quality hangers of all one style lends a sense of organization to the space. LS

Let your space define you.

(306) 934-1929 â&#x20AC;˘ info@zelcountertops.ca

designer

The

touch

Arbutus Properties offers clients the services of their interior design consultant, Annabelle Richer, to help personalize their Meadows homes. (Photo courtesy of Arbutus Properties)

By HILARY KLASSEN

A hallmark of Craftsman style is the exceptional millwork. This Meadows home by Arbutus Properties showcases classic wainscoting, deep baseboards, window casings and crown moulding, evoking character homes from times past, blended with some modern elements. (Photo: Jeff Lyons)

A desirable middle ground is emerging for home buyers looking to personalize their new home. It occupies the zone between the custom home and the ‘spec’ production home and appeals to those who seek some input into the process without committing to full customization. In Rosewood, The Meadows offers Craftsman style homes designed to bring back front porch living. Arbutus Properties is creating the kind of neighbourhood that makes it easier to connect with neighbours and more amenable for kids to play on the street. To demystify and facilitate the personalization of your new home, Arbutus offers clients the opportunity to work with their interior design consultant, Annabel Richer. “I think if we didn’t offer that service, a lot of our clients would find it overwhelming to make all of their selections,” she says.

Clients can choose from several popular floor plans: the Classic, the Craftsman and the Estate. All three plans offer the exceptional millwork typical of Craftsman style in the window casings, baseboards and wainscoting. The Classic design presents high-end laminate, thermofoil cabinets, granite kitchen and bath countertops and nine-foot ceilings, in an entry level home. The Craftsman mid-range plan offers 10-foot ceilings, deeper baseboards, and adds crown molding on the main floor. The appliance package changes slightly with each plan. The Estate package has an upgraded appliance package which includes a gas stove. You’ll see the high ceilings, crown molding, deep baseboards and exotic granites. Richer says all their granites are very durable, but exotic granites are a bit harder to come by. The Estate plan is where other finishes like quartz, marble and Italian porcelain come into play. Some finishing selections can be swapped between plans depending on the wants and budget of the client. The Classic plan can be upgraded to hardwood flooring, for example. Meeting with the client helps Richer elicit the

finer points of the client’s dream home. “Usually in my first general meeting with the client, I ask them to bring any inspirational images or items they have, even if it’s a teacup or a pillow they like, and they love the colours − anything that’s inspiring. That’s how I get to know the clients,” says Richer. Richer also guides clients through the implications of their selections. If they want a very bold paint colour she’ll help them find the best palette and a way to make it work. “Customization is knowing what the customer’s personality is, so I get to know their likes and dislikes, the colours they like, whether they prefer staying with a neutral palette or something that’s a little bit bolder and brighter, going with blues or greens or something a little more modern and classic,” says Richer. A second meeting with the design consultant allows clients to fine-tune their selections. “I usually have a palette laid out for them so it’s easier to see how that gorgeous tile they chose works with everything else,” she says. Richer’s knowledge of various finishing materials is essential to the process. If a messy cook wants a white marble back-

splash, she’ll let them know that marble is soft, stains very easily and may not be the best option. For a recent client, Richer selected a spectacular porcelain tile for the ensuite that exactly resembles marble because they weren’t keen on the care and maintenance involved with marble. Arbutus’ most popular package is the Craftsman. Clients appreciate the high ceilings, the millwork with the wainscoting, and the finishes included in the package. “I’ve seen a lot of different styles of what people are looking for. Right now white cabinets are a popular trend. The same with subway tile and going with the darker grout,” she says. Also popular is doing something unique and different in the ensuite compared to the rest of the house, especially if it leans to the grand and luxurious. The Harvest townhome project and The Morris Laneway development offer two colour boards for each project – a more traditional and a more modern option. New residents of The Meadows will enjoy the friendly neighbourhood and the growing range of amenities with the Meadows Market coming in. Visit meadowsliving.ca to begin designing your dream! LS

Annabelle Richer, design consultant for Arbutus Properties, says many new home buyers like to do something unique and different from the rest of the house in the ensuite, especially if it leans to the grand and luxurious. (Photo courtesy of Arbutus Properties)

Q A

ASK AN EXPERT

Andrew & JILAIRE Wagner Maison Fine Homes 118 SINCLAIR CRESCENT (306) 242-3653

build@maisonfinehomes.ca www.maisonfinehomes.ca

Luxury + Living = Dream Home Maison Fine Homes and Interior Design is a boutique builder specializing in delivering design-driven homes. We are passionate about timeless design and dedicated to precision quality construction. Let us build you a home that’s both beautiful and functional.

2014 Home Builder of the Year

maisonfinehomes.ca | 306.242.3653 |

Q: We are building a new home, but not developing the basement right away. Is there anything we should be thinking about now to make future development easier? A: In a word, the answer is, everything! But in all seriousness, even though basement development may seem irrelevant at this stage, it’s critical to have at least thought out the functions you would like in your future basement — family room, home gym, guest room, bathroom, utility room, storage — and have developed a floor plan that shows where they will go. This way you can make sure the bedroom windows are egress-compliant, the bathroom plumbing is located in the proper space and ensure that structural components like beams and teleposts are hidden within future walls. We are big believers in basement development, especially when compared to the cost of adding on square feet above grade. If you want your future basement to feel like an extension of the rest of your home, ensuring it will be inviting and well used, there are a few more things you can consider: ▪ Ceiling height: A standard basement ceiling is eight feet, but moving to a nine-foot ceiling can dramatically increase window sizes and create a more open, airy feeling. ▪ Open web joists: Open web joists allow heat runs to be hidden in the joists, eliminating the need for awkward bulkheads. ▪ Windows: Accepting that you may need window wells allows you to increase the height of your basement windows. We like to install a 30-inch high window as a minimum. There are a lot of great decorative window well products on the market that add character and visual appeal to your windows. ▪ Heat source: Comfort in the basement is key to a basement’s enjoyment. Plan for a heat source that will ensure an even temperature with the rest of your home – in-floor heat, a multi-zone furnace or a secondary fireplace are all good options. ▪ Insulation: A large percentage of a home’s heat is lost through the basement slab. Consider installing rigid styrofoam under the slab or adding spray foam insulation to the walls to further increase comfort.

A new level of

Sophistication

an innovative leader in creating expert & timeless kitchen design ~~~~ Monday - Friday 9-5

Saturday 10-4 ~~~~

kitchen centre

ltd.

2639 Faithfull Avenue â&#x20AC;˘ 668-6177 taitkitchens.com

Urban gardens set Living Stone apart b y J eannie A rmstrong P H O T O S B Y J E F F LY O N S

An urban townhome development isn’t the first place you’d expect to find garden plots or a fruit orchard. At Living Stone Townhomes, however, condo dwellers can expect the unexpected. The community of 102 two- and threebedroom townhomes was designed and constructed by North Prairie Developments at 1220 Pringle Way. “We wanted to create some excitement with this project by developing unique and attractive outdoor living spaces with orchards and gardens and a place to gather with friends and family,” says Andrew Williams, CEO of North Prairie Developments. To achieve their vision of sustainable, organic living within an urban setting, North Prairie has added some very innovative features to their Stonebridge development. Krista Nakonechy, marketing and events coordinator with North Prairie Developments, says the attractive townhomes surround an oasis-like outdoor living space which will become the social hub of the community. “It will have barbecues, a seating area and a koi fish pond. It will definitely be a social gathering place for residents.” Along the south perimeter of the development will be delicious fruit orchards. After consulting with the experts at Early’s Garden Centre in Saskatoon, three different kinds of prairie-hardy fruit trees have been selected for planting: Evans cherry, September Ruby apple and Pembina plum. Interspersed among the fruit trees will be 56 cedar-lined raised garden beds. The gar-

den beds, measuring six by four feet, will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis to residents. “They will line the south perimeter of the property, to receive optimal sunlight,” says Nakonechny. The novel concept of on-site organic food production was one of the suggestions made by students of the University of Saskatchewan’s Advanced Urban Design Class, taught by professional associate Henry Lau, a senior planner with the City of Saskatoon’s urban design department. Nakonechny was among the 18 students in the class. “The students suggested various design elements that were integrated into the actual project, including orchards, garden boxes and a community outdoor living space,” she says. “The students even came up with the name for the development: Living Stone.” Other green initiatives also distinguish Living Stone Townhomes. “There’s definitely an emphasis on green living,” says Nakonechny. “The townhomes feature efficiency-flow showerheads, faucets and toilets; upgraded insulation to reduce heating and cooling costs and Honeywell wi-fi thermostats with alerts. All of the exterior project lighting is LED. A recycling program will also be in place.” With Stonebridge approaching build-out, Living Stone will be one of the last new townhome projects to be developed in the neighbourhood. “It’s ideally situated on the municipal boundary, adjacent to green space and walking paths. Just a few blocks away, there

is an attractive park with a man-made lake,” says Nakonechny. Living Stone’s adjacency to so much green space contributed to the decision to make the townhome development pet-friendly. “It’s so hard to find a condo that allows pets. Those properties often have size restrictions, only allowing small dogs or cats. There’s no such restriction at Living Stone,” says Nakonechny. Six different floor plans are on offer at Living Stone Townhomes, ranging in size from 1,085 to 1,770 square feet (including optional basement development). The majority come with attached two-car garages. “Living Stone Townhomes have a cool, modern vibe,” says Nakonechny of the open concept floor plans. The “Sage” show suite reveals a trendy colour palette, sleek finishes and a truly liveable floor plan. North Prairie’s decorator Peggy Bedo created the show suite’s standout décor, which visitors are constantly complimenting. “People really love the colour palette and finishes that Peggy has selected,” says Nakonechny. A spacious great room dominates the main floor, with an inviting living room and a sunny dining area serving as bookends to a beautifully-appointed kitchen. A nine-foot long quartz-topped island creates a fabulous work space and serving counter when entertaining friends and family. The white fusion finish contemporary

Shaker-style cabinets pop against the contrasting Tribeca mystic grey oak laminate flooring. Potential buyers who are concerned about having sufficient storage space will be pleased by the many closets and storage areas incorporated into the floor plan. The Sage unit features four large closets on the main floor alone, including a generously-sized closet pantry. Three bedrooms are located on the second floor, including the master bedroom with a large walk-in closet. To maximize the size of each bedroom, North Prairie’s designers cleverly minimized hallway space and angled entrances to the two secondary bedrooms. Priced starting at $279,900, Living Stone Townhomes are proving popular with buyers of all ages, says Nakonechny. “We’re seeing lots of interest — from first-time buyers to empty-nesters and investors.” Williams is pleased with the response to the innovative Living Stone community. “We wanted to deliver something to the home buyer that goes above and beyond their expectations, to increase their quality of living and make them feel happy about where they choose to call home.” The Living Stone show suite, at 1220 Pringle Way, is open for viewing every Saturday, Sunday and holidays from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m.; Monday through Thursday from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. LS 33

Because Dorothy was right . . .

Un ea

Sur ma Tin ho

Aft fam pla the oc wa ha

Wh use ne wo af op Ho tra fam

Like Ho tha do an en â&#x20AC;&#x201C; t be exp an ple

Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no place like home.

Unlike Dorothy, you don’t have to travel to the ends of the earth to know that home is where you truly belong. Sure, it’s always fun to get away for a few days and make new friends like the Scarecrow, the Lion and the Tin Man, but nothing quite compares to that feeling of homecoming you experience upon your return. After all, your home is your personal comfort zone – where family life unfolds and memories are made. Home is the place where you’ve nurtured your children and watched them grow. It’s where your family has celebrated joyous occasions and holidays. It’s the camaraderie you enjoy walking down the block, chatting to neighbours who have become dear friends. What if your cherished home isn’t quite as awesome as it used to be? Perhaps it no longer fits your family’s changing needs or feels cramped for space. Is it looking a little worse for wear or stuck in a past decade? Are there are a few walls you’d like to knock down to achieve a more open floor plan for entertaining or family gatherings? How about that empty basement? Have you considered transforming that underutilized space into an inviting family room, games area or fitness studio? Like so many people, hours of browsing Pinterest and Houzz may have boggled your mind with so many ideas that you don’t know where to begin – so you end up doing nothing at all! Don’t hesitate any longer! The design and renovation team at Centennial 360 is at the ready to ensure your home remains the perfect fit for your family – today and for years to come. The renovation process begins with a simple chat – as Centennial 360’s design experts learn more about your family’s needs and lifestyle and suggest ways to make your home more functional, pleasing and attractive.

You can visualize your home’s new look in Centennial 360’s presentation centre, where the latest trends in home design are on display, including paint colours, flooring samples, countertop and backsplash materials. Centennial 360’s 12,000 square foot retail showroom is an incredible gallery of fashionable fixtures, faucets, cabinets and accessories, curated from leading manufacturers from across Europe and North America. Whether your project as simple as the addition of a bathroom basement or a major whole home renovation, you can rely on Centennial 360 to look after all of the details! Because Centennial 360 has its own professional teams of experienced journeyperson plumbers, carpenters and electricians, you can be confident your renovation will come in on budget, on time and with incredible style. Best of all, Centennial 360’s no-worries two-year warranty on home renovations ensures your satisfaction. Check out Centennial 360’s online portfolio to see examples of the awesome kitchens, bathrooms, family rooms, basement developments, additions and whole home renovations they’ve completed for homeowners just like you. Then call or visit to arrange for your complimentary renovation consultation. Having served Saskatoon and area for the past 48 years, Centennial 360 knows better than anyone: There’s no place like home!

710 51�t St E | 306.222.8466 306.500.7384 | centennial360.com st

Q A

ASK AN EXPERT

about style and decor

Charlene Schumacher Fresco Interiors Design Group #40-710 Cynthia Street (306) 933-3200

Charlene@frescointeriors.ca www.frescointeriors.ca

Inspiring Design Inspire Limitless Design Exclusive Furniture- Custom Drapery- Designer Wallpaper

The Art of First Impressions Q: Have you ever wondered why some houses capture your heart the moment you step in the front door, while others feel unwelcoming? What components define a well-designed entry? Why does one foyer excite your senses with delicious details while another feels cluttered or cold? A: A beautiful foyer starts with a design plan. The interior design process involves layering colour, texture and balance, co-ordinated in a wave of simplicity that appears to flow effortlessly into the home. The entry of your home makes that important first impression upon your guests, revealing the style and personality of your space. It’s an introduction to your design direction – a hint of the drama that awaits. STEP ONE − Start by planning your architectural components. Consider the details for all wall and ceiling areas. How can you tweak the ceiling application? Plan an interesting element which will draw your eye upward. For the home featured in the photo above, we designed a layered coffered ceiling with recessed lighting. How can you add interest to your stairway? In our feature room, a central 62-inch column is strategically placed adjacent to the curved staircase, creating a central focal point. The column is detailed with a faux white leather textured wallpaper to enhance the focal point. STEP TWO – Plan your electrical features strategically, thinking about where you want your “eye” to be directed. We designed the entry to feature a custom sofa which was recessed into an alcove. A sculptural mirror was installed above it on a black ostrich faux leather textured wall. The alcove was then backlit to showcase the furniture which appears to fit seamlessly into the niche. Planning specific furniture pieces to fit into the floor plan is a great way to create a custom built-in vignette. STEP THREE – Plan your surfaces in layers. How can flooring be presented in an interesting manner? We layered the flooring in this home’s entry with a series of 4”x24” and 12”x24” subway porcelain tiles. The stairway application features walnut hardwood on the risers and porcelain tile on the tread. This combination provides a cohesive textural flow and adds an unexpected element of style to the entry. Taking the time to plan a beautiful entry will make you smile each time you walk in the door! Love Where You Live!

Cozy up: How to choose the ideal area rug b y A shleigh M attern Design consultant Kimberly Stinson describes area rugs as the “perfect accessory” for rooms. “It’s like the belt, the shoes, the earrings, a little poof in the guys’ lapel pockets,” says Stinson, one of the design experts at Braid Flooring and Window Fashions. “It’s just that little piece that can really bring out your particular homeowner’s personal taste.” Like pillows and artwork, area rugs are a room accessory that are easy to replace when you need a change or want to experiment with new colours or patterns. “There are some people who have two area rugs for the same space: one for the summer, and one for the winter,” says Stinson. “It gives the room a different feel throughout the year.” Traditional oriental-style rugs are still popular for a certain type of classic look, but Stinson says more often people are choosing cleaner, contemporary looks. Quatrefoil and Moroccan patterns are especially popular right now. “We’ve got it in tile; we’ve got it in area rugs; we’ve got it in carpets,” she says. If you’re interested in getting experimental, you’ll be happy to know the possibilities for colour and pattern combinations has exploded. Stinson notes that in the past if you

had patterned furniture, you had to go plain on the floor, but people are breaking all the rules and mixing up patterns in whatever way suits them. “Flooring can be a blank canvas like walls. The area rug is the art piece on the floor.” Whether you prefer a style that’s boldly traditional, exquisitely shaggy, or tailored with a strong pattern, you’ll need to determine the shape and size that best suits the space, says Stinson. Rectangles are probably what come to mind when you imagine an area rug, but she points out that depending on the space, a circle or square might work better. You’ll even see different shapes and sizes mixed and matched for an even more unique look. Some shapes may not be available in a pre-made area rug, so in that case you may need to choose a custom option, which will cost a bit extra. Determining your budget is an important step, as prices can range drastically. A standard five by eight rug might start at $300, but could cost over $2,000. Your budget will help narrow down the options. If you’re looking for an area rug, you likely have hardwood flooring: “They go hand in hand now,” says Stinson. “That’s always the million dollar question: Why am I investing in hardwood, and then covering it up? It has to do with comfort.” Hardwood looks great, and is a solid in-

vestment, but carpet is simply more comfortable. Carpet on a slippery surface like hardwood or laminate comes with its own sets of problems, namely creeping, bunching, and rolling. For this reason, Stinson says it’s useful to invest in a non-skid underlay like Teebaud. Plus, some rugs have an abrasive back that will rub and wear the flooring underneath, and an underlay can protect your floor. Another issue to watch out for is the “postage stamp” effect, says Stinson. In a room that receives a lot of natural light, hardwood will change colour. If a rug is used in that room, you may end up with a dark shade where the rug was habitually kept. In this instance, Stinson recommends moving the rug around, and rolling it up whenever you’re away for an extended period of time. Area rugs also work well in open concept homes as a way to give rooms definition. The sound-deadening properties of a rug are also a welcome feature in a home with high ceilings. “In open concept homes, it can get a little hollow. [An area rug] adds a little bit of acoustical warmth.” Area rugs offer a softness and texture that are hard to capture with any other room accessory. And you have to admit, the right rug really ties a room together. LS 37

TRAILBLAZERS

Sun Ridge Residential works with home builders and homeowners to develop environmentally-responsible, energy-saving housing solutions.

Sun Ridge Residential dedicated to energy efficiency and affordability b y B lair B raitenbach P H O T O S B Y J E F F LY O N S

When Sun Ridge President and CEO Keith Hanson set to work on energy efficient homes back in the late 1970s, he knew he was onto something big. Looking back on his four-decade career, his insights and contributions to the industry appear nothing short of revolutionary. An Engineering graduate out of the University of Saskatchewan, Hanson, alongside partner Dave Fetsch, formed Victory Homes in 1978. The pair utilized their science and technical expertise to build houses that

provided cost savings to the homeowner through smart design and energy efficiency – which by extension benefitted the natural environment. Taking part in the Energy Showcase Project in Saskatoon in 1981, they proved through careful construction and simple modifications – such as efficient windows, tight sealing and thick insulation – that a house could be run on only $100 of natural gas per year. “We realized that if we build the house well – the envelope to keep the heat in – that

you don’t need much heat for the house. That was the evolution of the energy philosophy that we embraced,” Hanson recalls. “When I ran the numbers on it, financially it just made so much sense.” It was after this successful project that Sun Ridge Residential Inc. was formed – over the years contributing to the research and implementation of federal green building standards like R-2000® and ENERGY STAR® for New Homes. While maintaining a foot in the home building industry, since 1981 Sun Ridge Residential has served as a consultant and service provider to homeowners and builders interested in the construction of energy efficient living spaces. Licensed by Natural Resources Canada, Sun Ridge provides inspections, testing, training and labelling across Saskatchewan and Western Canada. “Having had the opportunity to help create the R-2000 program and get the Saskatoon & Region Home Builders’ Association involved in it – and to help to continue to evolve it – has been a great and meaningful ride,” Hanson says. “A new energy-efficient home is definitely a leg up on the existing market.” Kent Mohn, Sun Ridge Vice-President of

Operations, compares a home’s efficiency to a car’s performance levels. With new rating information now available, Mohn says a home’s energy capabilities will be made easier to understand – something he believes is imperative to the home-buying market. “All of the performance testing we do affects affordability because there are operational costs,” Mohn explains. “Nobody buys a house knowing what they are supposed to be paying per month on utilities, they just know what things they get (with the house).” Another cause that hits close to home for Hanson is that of affordable living environments. Just as his life’s work has led him to the contribution of energy efficient – and thereby financially-minded – homes, Hanson has taken affordable housing to heart. Since 2000 through the Affordable New Home Development Foundation and by working alongside local builders, Sun Ridge has helped place hundreds of families into houses where the benefits of ownership would have been otherwise unimaginable. Throughout his years in the housing industry, Hanson says Sun Ridge’s partnership with the Saskatoon & Region Home

Showhome at 117 Gilies Bay in Rosewood!

306-261-5336

cityhomeslimited.com

Builders’ Association has yielded tremendous benefits for everyone involved. “Canadians as a whole are the besthoused people in the world, and a big part of that is as a result of the home builders’ association – locally, provincially and nationally,” Hanson concludes. LS

REAL TIME BUILD

Homeowners Reg Aupperle and Judy Guenther (left, centre) join Boychuk marketing consultant Joanne Stanton Hassler to view the footings of their new condo at Rosewood Estates.

from the

ground up...

The new home journey begins

b y J eannie A rmstrong

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s involved in the planning, design and construction a new home? In this edition of Living Spaces, we launch an exciting new series that will chronicle the progress of a custom home build, as it takes place in real time! Saskatoon couple Judy Guenther and Reg Aupperle have offered to share their experiences with our readers as their new residence is constructed at Rosewood Estates by long-time Saskatoon builder Boychuk Construction Corp. This promises to be an exciting journey for Judy and Reg as they watch their bungalow-style townhome make the transition from blueprint to reality!

MEET OUR HOMEOWNERS Judy and Reg are long-time residents of the Lakeview area. Reg is a technician at the Canadian Light Source Synchrotron; Judy is a consultant who assists people on longterm disability to return to work. The couple has lived in the same 1,500 square-foot bungalow, originally constructed by Boychuk Homes, for the past 28 years. In this home, theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve raised their family and shared a lifetime of cherished memories. Now Judy and Reg have decided to make the transition to a more carefree condo lifestyle and have again selected Boychuk

Homes as their builder of choice. “I’m the one who instigated the discussion because I’m tired of doing yard work and maintaining a home that is now too big for us,” says Judy. “It makes sense for a new family to move in and fully use that space. We don’t need that big of a footprint,” agrees Reg. Judy first discovered Boychuk’s new gated community of Rosewood Estates while riding her bike through the neighbourhood two years ago. Comprised of 27 single and attached bungalow-style townhomes, the development overlooks a scenic 65-acre wetlands preserve and nature trail system. “I stopped and looked around a little bit. I liked what I saw, but at the time I thought, ‘We’re not ready for this.’ I did tell Reg about it though, when I got home,” says Judy. “We came over and looked around. There were several walk-out units already under construction,” says Reg. “That idea appealed to us, but we thought it was just too soon to make that transition,” says Judy. One year later, the couple began to think in earnest about condo living. “We knew we didn’t want an apartment-style condo. We knew we didn’t want a two-storey. We have a dog and wanted her to make the move with us. Bungalow. Pet. That was our criteria,” says Judy. They decided to check out the Rosewood Estates show home. “We liked the layout of the show home. The fact that we could customize it really appealed to us,” says Judy. The development’s ENERGY STAR® status and the use of environmentally-friendly EnDur shingles, made from recycled tires, also impressed the couple. “And when we found out we could bring our dog, we were sold,”

says Judy. Not so fast, said Reg. “For me, the biggest thing was about getting a bigger garage. We can barely get two vehicles into our existing garage. The show home garage was the same size. Not having a larger garage would have been a deal breaker for me.” Boychuk Homes’ marketing consultant Joanne Stanton Hassler had good news for the couple. “The south-facing lot they were interested in allowed us to expand the length of the garage by two feet.” Following a discussion of pricing and budgets, it was time to take Reg and Judy’s dream home to the blueprint stage.

ACHIEVING THE PERFECT FIT With floor plans ranging in size from 1,253 to 1,500 square feet, Judy and Reg now had to decide which footprint was best suited to their needs. “I took them to look at different properties Boychuk had under construction, to give Judy and Reg an idea of our various floor plans,” says Joanne. “They narrowed down their choices to three layouts: 1,253, 1,342 and 1,407 square feet.” The couple decided on the 1,253 square foot plan, which features a large master suite on the main floor. Customizing the floor plan to fulfill the couple’s needs involved “many meetings and emails,” says Joanne. “The design took a few months to refine. Of course, all of the modifications have to go to our construction department to make sure those changes are workable and to ensure that the proper dimensions are being adhered to.” With the size and layout of their condo established, the couple could begin to visual the interior of their new home. “One of the biggest decisions they had to make involved the natural gas fireplace. In the show home, the fireplace is on a feature wall surrounded by windows,” says Joanne. The couple wanted to maximize the natural light coming into their condo and didn’t want to trade window space for a fireplace. “They decided on an electric fireplace that will be installed on the interior wall of the living room. The natural gas fireplace will be installed in the family room in the basement,” says Joanne. Ensuring the home could accommodate aging in place was another important consideration for Judy and Reg. “We made an important change in the master ensuite. It typically has a shower and a tub. We chose to have a larger walk-in shower, and put the tub downstairs, so we can age in place here,” says Judy. “Aging in place was also part of our decision-making.”

As Judy frequently works from her home, having the space for a home office was essential. The couple looked to the bungalow’s lower level, with its lofty nine-foot ceiling and super-sized windows, to gain that space. “The basement is going to be completely developed, with an additional bedroom, home office, fitness area and a family room,” says Judy. The basement is being developed by Boychuk Homes to the same finish and detail level as the main floor. “We lived through the mess of a basement development in our existing home. This way, it’s all done. It’s move-in ready, which is important,” says Reg. THE BUILD COMMENCES Construction commenced on Reg and Judy’s new townhome at the beginning of July. The basement foundation has been poured, the subfloor installed and framing is proceeding. “Framing of the two adoining units will take between a month and six weeks,” says Joanne. Judy and Reg visit the site frequently, excited to watch the progress of their build. Now it’s onto the exciting details that will truly personalize the couple’s home, including the selection of flooring, lighting, cabinetry, fixtures and paint colours. Join us in our next edition of Living Spaces, as we learn more about the exciting design and decor choices that Judy and Reg make for their new home. We’ll also check in on the progress that has been made in the construction of the home, as it begins to take shape before our eyes. In the meantime, you can visit the Rosewood Estates’ showhome in person, located at #1 – 315 Ledingham Drive. The show home is open Saturdays and Sundays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. For further information about the development, visit www.boychukhomes.com. LS

Q A

ASK AN EXPERT

Accredited Mortgage Professionals Jackie Hendrickson Sk Broker #316653

p (306)717-1843 jackieh@onest.ca

www.jackiekristi.com

Kristi Knippel

Sk Associate #316469

p (306)227-7051

kristik@onest.ca

www.jackiekristi.com

oneSt Mortgages (a franchise of Mortgage Architects) Jackie Hendrickson & Kristi Knippel Accredited Mortgage Professionals Q: Why is it important to get pre-approved for a mortgage? A: When you get pre-approved for a mortgage, you will know what you can afford and how much of a mortgage you can qualify for to buy your home. When properly pre-approved, you and your real estate agent will have the confidence to negotiate your purchase and be taken seriously by prospective sellers and their agents. You will also have a solid understand of all the closing costs associated with purchasing a home, including legal fees and other expenses. When you have a proper pre-approval, you can be confident that once your mortgage professional receives your final offer to purchase, your mortgage can be quickly processed, subject to the lenderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s approval of the property and applicable approval from a mortgage default insurer. Q: What is the difference between a pre-approval and a rate commitment? A: A pre-approval also includes a rate commitment from a lender that will guarantee your interest rate for a specific length of time to protect against an increase in interest rates. If rates go down before that time period elapses, you will get the lower rate for the term you selected. A rate commitment does provide a guarantee to the rate to be held for a specific period of time but the lender has not yet reviewed your application or documentation. A rate commitment does not provide you with the assurance that your mortgage will be approved. It is important to not confuse a rate commitment with a proper pre-approval. Q: Do all mortgage professionals have the same process for providing a pre-approval? A: Some mortgage providers and mortgage professionals use an automated system for pre-approvals. This is not something we would recommend that a client rely on. This is just a quick way to provide a quick answer. A pre-approval is much more complicated than entering in information into an online application. We feel it is crucial to have clients provide all documentation to support the mortgage application up-front. Every client has a unique situation and it is the mortgage professionalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s role to ensure there will be no surprises when the offer to purchase goes in on your dream home. Q: How much does it cost to get a pre-approval through a mortgage professional?

SK Brokerage #316566

A: Getting pre-approved for a mortgage should not cost you anything as the mortgage professional you work with is compensated by the lender that your mortgage is placed with. 43

Dream launches first multi-family projects in Saskatoon b y A shleigh M attern

South Kensington represents new beginnings. Starting from raw earth, Dream Development has the chance to design the perfect neighbourhood, and one building in particular embodies Dream’s vision for the future. Kensington Boulevard is a multifamily condominium by Dream, the first in Saskatoon created by their newly minted multi-residential division. Along with Dream’s name change from Dundee last year, part of their vision and planning is to be more diversified in how they build their communities. They’ve divided the company up into specialized divisions that work together to serve the public. The multi-residential division is one of those. “We want to establish ourselves as a leading multi-residential builder,” says Alan Aron, Homes by Dream vice-president of multi-residential for Western Canada. Dream’s multi-residential buildings are mid-rise developments, at three to six storeys, while townhome-style condos still fall

under their single-family division. Aron notes that the number of multiresidential buildings has grown drastically over the past few years. Land and real estate prices have increased, pushing more and more people to look for affordable housing options – not only moderate-income households, but also first-time buyers and older buyers looking to downsize. “There are people who want to get rid of a house and go back to a condo,” says Aron. “It is usually a more economical way of living. Plus, I think the younger generation today is not so overly concerned about having a home with a back yard.” More important, he says, is having a home that is safe, in a good neighbourhood and of good quality. The condos in Kensington South feature stainless steel appliances, high-end carpet, gorgeous kitchen cabinets, granite and quartz countertops and tiles in the bathrooms. Dream’s sales centre located in Kensington allows buyers to stop in and select of

all the finishes in their home. One goal Dream has for these open-concept apartments is to give owners more space and light. The bedrooms and closets are larger than might be found in similar properties, and the windows are oversized to capture more sunlight. They’re also aiming to create a distinct architectural style that is all Dream. Plans for Kensington Boulevard are modern and cool, including stone and stucco exteriors. The Kensington condos also back onto a green space. Since Dream owns the land they’re developing and building on, they’ll be working with their land division to find the best spots for each of their properties. “We select areas of land where we can become known as a master builder. For our upcoming future projects, like in Brighton, we’re looking at areas around lakes and water so we can give people a more ‘love where you live,’ with the capability of having picturesque settings.” Dream hopes to start selling and building the Brighton properties sometime in 2016. They already have condos approved for Stonebridge. The two-building Residences at Stonebridge will back onto a municipal park and will be located across from the new school to be built in the neighbourhood. Pre-sales for the Residences started in August, with construction planned for the end of 2015. Multi-family buildings will be an important feature of all of the neighbourhoods Dream is developing going forward. Aron says the multi-family developments in Brighton and Holmwood will likely feature centralized clubhouses with amenities like gyms, playrooms, patios or fire pits. “We’re serious about being the number one multi-family builder, and we spend a lot of time thinking about our designs, our layouts, and what we have to offer to the public, to the home buyers.” LS 45

innovations

Bone Structure revolutionizes framing process b y T om E remondi

Home building: there have been sticks and stones and now there are Bones. Okay, not real “bones” but Bone Structure is the name given to a new and innovative framing process. “It’s a unique, forward-thinking system,” says Mark Kindrachuk. His company, On The Mark Residential, is one of the first builders in the city to adopt the new framing process. “Someone in the industry told me about Bone Structure about a year and a half ago,” Kindrachuk explains. “So I did my due diligence in researching what Bone Structure was. After six months of research I approached the company with some questions.” That company, based in Laval, Quebec, was created by Marc Bovet, a former Bombardier employee. After renovating his own home and wondering why structurally sound and economical steel was only used commercially, he realized that it would be ideal for residential home building. He left Bombardier to form Bone Structure in 2005. After having his questions answered, Kindrachuk traveled to Ontario to see a Bone Structure home being framed and was

sold. A few months later, On The Mark was an authorized dealer of the product. While On The Mark Residential will continue building conventional stick-frame houses, Kindrachuk says Bone Structure is an attractive option for those buying new homes. “One of the main benefits of the steel structure is that there are no interior loadbearing walls. You can have a totally open concept. “The structure also allows for attractive features such as floor-to-ceiling windows, corner windows or windows that butt into each other,” he adds. “You can do concrete on every floor of your house, which means in-floor radiant heat.” Kindrachuk says Bone Structure leads to many appealing architectural features. “The steel allows for cantilevered roof systems and interesting add-ons. Customers can opt for stairs with fully-open metal stringers that are custom made to fit each house.” Bone Structure utilizes steel columns every five feet with structural insulated panels (SIPs) that are pressure-fit between the columns, leading to increased energy efficiencies. Kindrachuk says, “This supports spray

foam insulation, which means a true R-28.5 value in the walls while the roof will have an R-56 value. The foam is applied on the outside so the homes are hermetically sealed. Naturally, your heating and cooling costs will be significantly less.” Another plus with the steel structure home is that moisture and mould problems are virtually eliminated. Time is another huge advantage, Kindrachuk continues. “Everything is pre-cut, pre-drilled galvanized steel. Framing a wood structure house takes three to four times longer than framing a Bone Structure house. This cuts the total build time in at least half.” Bone Structure leads to environmental benefits, too. Precision manufacturing and assembly means there are no nails, no cuts and no waste – both at the factory and on the building site. The product keeps getting better, Kindrachuk says. “They’re up to version 10 of Bone Structure now. The company has put a lot of money into the technology and worked out the kinks.” A great urban option, Kindrachuk says Bone Structure is also ideal for remote areas. “We can literally hook the bundled steel to a helicopter, drop it off at a site and have the house up in a week. This would be great for cottage owners, acreages and others.” On The Mark Residential had a Bone Structure display at this spring’s HomeStyles Home Show which generated a lot of interest and plans are underway to construct two and possibly three of the first Bone Structure homes in the city. It’s a new concept and buyers tend to be shy about new, Kindrachuk admits. “We plan to have open house events at the framing stages. Once people see what these homes look like and all the benefits, I’m sure this will become a popular option.” For more information, visit www.otmresidential.com. LS

UNIQUE ARCHITECTURAL FREEDOM TO CREATE THE HOME YOU LOVE STEEL CONSTRUCTION SYSTEM PATENTED IN 42 COUNTRIES

With no interior load-bearing walls or columns, a BONE Structure home’s large open areas and huge fenestration are eyeopening and smile-inducing. Plus, if your family’s needs change, you can modify and upgrade without affecting the building’s structural integrity. BONE Structure homes are mold free, comfortable and can save up to 90% on energy costs. Whether you choose to do a custom home or select an existing inspirational design, you are in control. BONE Structure Local Authorized Builder

Visit us at www.BONEstructure.ca

“It’s all about the experience” otmresidential.com 306.280.8494

Greenbryre Estates…. it’s really all about a new lifestyle!

Enjoy more privacy and fun on your 1/2 or 3/4 acre lot. Go for a round of golf before or after work. Enjoy drinks and meals with family and friends at the 12 Grill

DISCOVER THE

www.dshomes.ca

DIFFERENCE

nd Great food a at atmosphere daily 12 Grill with specials too!

Your choice of a 2243 sq. ft. Walkout Two-Storey or 1632 sq. ft. walkout bungalow for ONLY $899,900 +GST e your Call to choos d get lot today an nt your baseme efore completed b the freeze.

OFFICE:

306-374-4774

EHOR HRYCAN:

306-361-2430

LAURA MORA:

639-480-5440

TROY SLATER:

306-612-4545

is RENO Month October

October is Renovation Month, so what better time to start that project you’ve been thinking about? Making the decision to renovate can be scary, but being properly prepared for what’s ahead can help you complete your renovation and keep your peace of mind.

Often, stress during a renovation project comes from misconceptions about the renovation process itself. To help you avoid unnecessary trouble and anxiety, we’ve put together a list of the most common misconceptions about renovations: 1. I don’t need a professional renovator. The question to ask yourself is: “Do I want the work done right?” If so, you’ll need someone with experience and skill - in short, a “pro.” Remember, a professional also comes equipped with a written contract, insurance, workers’ compensation, and all other required business tools to protect your interests. 2. It’s a small project, it shouldn’t take long. It’s not necessarily the size of the job that dictates how long it will take, but the number of steps and sub-trades involved. Trust professional renovators to give you a realistic timeline - they know you can’t rush quality.

3. A professional renovator should be able to give me a good idea of a price right away. For a simple project, the renovator may well be able to provide a rough “ball park” estimate. But for anything more complex, or where structural issues may crop up, or where total costs will depend on material and finishing choices you have yet to make, a more detailed plan is needed before costs can be accurately estimated.

4. I must get at least 3 bids, and more is better. Getting a large number of bids provides no assurance that things will work out the way you want them to. Who you get bids from is far more important than how many you collect. Focus on interviewing professional renovators, and look for the experience and qualifications that best match your project, as well as the personal fit between you and the renovator. Then you can suggestions that you may not have thought decide who to ask for detailed quotes - one, two, about. This can add extra value and living enjoyment to your home. or more renovators. 6. Cost overruns are usually the renovator’s 5. I am the best person to design my own fault. renovation. Extra costs are almost always due to extra work It’s true that you know your own house better that was not included in the original plan. than anyone, and you may know exactly what Something unexpected will often pop up, like you want - but a professional renovator or having to replace old wiring in the walls. designer draws on a wealth of experience and Homeowners will sometimes add to the work, knowledge, and can offer you ideas and thinking “now that we’re at it, we may as well...” To be ready for the unexpected, always add a 10% to 15% contingency fund to the budget. 7. I can probably get away without a permit. In some cases you don’t need a permit, but depending on your project, especially for ones that involve structural issues, renovating without a permit may be illegal. As the homeowner, you’re always responsible for permits, but a professional will know which permits and inspections are necessary and will usually look after this on your behalf. Need help finding a renovator to help you complete your project? Visit the Saskatoon & Region Home Builders’ Association website for a complete list of members and find a qualified, professional renovator today!

www.saskatoonhomebuilders.com

Meet our featured SPEAKERS 2016

Paul Lafrance

Paul Lafrance, creator, owner, and CEO of Cutting Edge Construction and Design, and host of HGTV Canada’s Decked Out and Deck Wars, has been generating innovative and state-of-the-art custom deck designs for over fifteen years. He has successfully designed and built well over a thousand decks across Southern Ontario, and has now expanded his design firm to include all of North America. His designs are always original and each project offers its own uniqueness and the beauty that has come to define a Cutting Edge Deck. His vision is to demonstrate how even the most basic backyard can become a true “retreat” in an age where weekend travel to a cottage has become an impracticality for most. His work has been featured on Home and Garden television, Holmes

Damon Bennett began working in the construction industry when he was just 15-years old. He started as a bricklayer’s helper and then moved up working as a roofer, framer and renovator whose professionalism on the field was surpassed only by his expertise.

Damon Bennett

While working on a client’s home, Damon was approached by producers of the hit television series, Holmes on Homes® to work permanently on the Mike Holmes’ Crew. Fans of the series came to know Damon as Mike’s right-hand man, and then as Mike’s co-host on Holmes Inspection—Mike’s second television series on HGTV. It wasn’t long before more than 1.5 million viewers were tuning in weekly, watching Damon take the reigns on getting the job done right.

on Holmes, Breakfast Television, Holmes Inspection, and he has built projects for a number of high profile personalities, including “Canada’s most trusted contractor” Mike Holmes, for whom Paul built a stunning backyard oasis.

Over the past year, he's kept busy appearing as one three celebrity judges on Canadian Handyman Challenge, along with Scott McGillivray and Bryan Beaumler. He is also continuing to film the HGTV hit T.V. show, Decked Out, as well as a brand new show called Disaster Decks. Paul continues to break design barriers with each new project, while he and the crew keep up their much-loved hilarious antics in the new season of episodes.

For nearly ten years, Damon was an essential component to the success of every one of Mike Holmes’ jobs, and as leader of the pack on Mike’s third series, Holmes Makes It Right he was a mentor to everyone on the Crew. Damon’s uncompromising diligence and unyielding dedication to every job proves that there is honour in a good day’s work. He currently specializes in carpentry, structure reinforcement and full construction coordination, but it is his commitment to helping others the best way he knows how which continues to drive him forward on every task he takes on.

Join us March 10-13, 2016 at Prairieland Park. For more information, or to book a booth at the show, visit homestylesonline.com

Saskatchewan’s Premier Home Show

HomeStyles is produced and managed by the Saskatoon & Region Home Builders’ Association.

Inspires Haven Builders caters to the infill market. Building in established neighbourhoods comes with many challenges, but their design team likes to “think outside the box,” according to Sales and Marketing Manager Sheri Deobald. (Supplied photos)

WHAT

by J ennifer Jacob y-Smith

Building an infill home is very different from building in a new development. There are far more challenges – such as neighbouring houses built close to the property line, existing trees and infrastructure, not to mention potential disruption to the street. We found three Saskatoon builders who build exceptional infill houses and asked them, ‘What inspires you?’

YOU?

H a v en B uilders

Haven Builders caters to the infill market. President Nathan Stobbe describes their company as a “dream home builder.” “We’re not scared to think outside the box,” says Sheri Deobald, Sales and Marketing Manager at Haven. “Our team is very creative and diverse. We have a team of designers that work together and they help the clients pick out everything for their homes.” Haven’s design team searches out ideas when visiting larger urban centres – even checking out what’s happening with home design in far-flung places in Europe. Deobald adds, “It’s not limited to what we’ve seen in the past in Saskatoon, but what Saskatoon could be.” When building infill houses, Stobbe says it’s important to preserve the uniqueness of the neighbourhood and still meet the client’s style. After all, that is why the client is choosing to live there.

While established neighbourhoods may view an infill house as an inconvenience, Stobbe and his team take time to meet with neighbours to make sure they know what to expect and minimize frustrations. Usually, neighbours are excited, because the home being replaced is generally rundown. “When you get a nice brand new house beside your property, it enhances your property values as well,” says Stobbe. Infill houses are not without challenges. As of January of this year, the City of Saskatoon changed some of the bylaws surrounding the building of infill houses. The limitations and challenges of infill builds inspire the design team at Haven to be more creative and push the limits of design. “We really work to combine the client’s dream, the neighbourhood, the zoning rules and bylaws, and take all those pieces of the puzzle and shake them up until we get a beautiful picture,” says Stobbe.

To find new ideas, Centennial 360 and their design team focus on getting to know their client. Sometimes a piece of artwork or favourite clothing item can inspire the whole project. (Supplied photos)

C entennial 3 6 0 C ustom H omes Rebecca Simpson, Project Coordinator with Centennial 360, says the company loves to focus on building and designing infill houses. “I think infill is the best of both worlds. You’re in an established neighbourhood with schools, with community, with trees, but you will have a home with all the latest amenities,” says Simpson. While the Centennial team will seek out new ideas when traveling to different cities, when it comes to finding inspiration for their custom-built projects they have one primary source. “It’s not just us designing the home. It’s getting to know our clients and building a rapport with them, (and) making suggestions in order to make their home as comfortable as possible for them,” explains Simpson. “We like to collaborate with our clients.” Centennial 360’s Brand Manager Charmaine Elmgren adds, “Because we’re doing custom homes the inspiration often comes from the client, the homeowner. They have

a piece of art or they have some sort of lifestyle piece that inspires the whole project.” It could be as simple as a favourite designer shoe, a piece of artwork, a photo, or piece of high fashion that sparks the idea for the entire project. In addition, Simpson says she and other members of Centennial’s team spend hours researching design and style ideas from online sources such as Houzz, magazines and product catalogues. They are well-versed in the latest trends. Another source of ideas is the neighbourhood the house will be located in. “Every neighbourhood has a distinct look and feel to it. So we get ideas from that as well,” Simpson notes. She does acknowledge there are extra challenges when it comes to building an infill house. Just getting into and out of some of the older neighbourhoods with large equipment in Saskatoon can be difficult. The design team at Centennial 360 is always up for a new challenge when it comes to exceeding their clients’ expectations. 53

Finding the balance between the clients’ desire for a unique style and fitting into an existing neighbourhood is one of the things that makes infill houses so challenging and exciting for Lexis Homes. (Photos: Jeff Lyons)

L e x is H omes One of the most high profile infill builds Lexis Homes has done was the grand prize showhome for the Kinsmen Home Lottery in 2014. The semi-attached home on Spadina Crescent came with a spectacular view of the river and a contemporary layout and design. “We find that people interested in infill homes tend to gravitate toward Lexis Homes as we provide designs that are distinct and compelling. Our homes definitely aren’t the standard homes you find in new neighbourhoods,” says Cam Skoropat, Lexis President. It’s that uniqueness that is the hallmark of the infill home, according to Skoropat. And it can be one of the challenges of designing for this market. “Pulling out the stock exterior plans won’t suffice for most infill homebuyers. They desire something distinct and need a builder with the design expertise to provide that unique style.” While clients want something distinc54

tive, they also usually, but not always, want something that fits within the architecture of the existing neighbourhood. Finding a style that meshes with the neighbourhood without upsetting the existing residents is part of the delicate balancing act when building in established neighbourhoods. “The infill home is in a class of its own. It’s not as simple as building in a new neighbourhood, so one of the ‘must-haves’ is knowledge of the intricacies of the infill building bylaws. There are specialized guidelines for building infill homes and most people aren’t aware of the finer details. That is why hiring a builder with knowledge of these details is so important,” says Skoropat. Seeking out inspiration for their designs, Lexis often relies on the clients’ specific requirements. While many may not know how to articulate it, they often come armed with photos or websites to give a visual of what they want. LS

achieving

awesome

Whole home renovation transforms Silverwood home b y J eannie A rmstrong

Like so many Saskatonians, David and Terrie Kostur love their existing home and neighbourhood. Their 2,200 square foot two-storey is located on a huge pie-shaped lot backing onto the Silverwood golf course. Since purchasing the home in 2009, the Kosturs have painstakingly transformed their back yard into a private oasis that would be impossible to replicate in a new subdivision. However, with four children now in their teens and early 20s, the Kostur house felt cramped for space. Built in 1986, the residence was showing its age, with a décor stuck in the ‘80s. “We had the sunshine ceiling and blonde oak cabinets,” says Terrie of the home’s dated kitchen. The home’s main floor also felt very segmented and closed off by walls. A small formal dining room was adjacent to a “one-person” kitchen. Next to the kitchen was a sunken family room. “Oak banisters created even more divisions in the space,” says David. With the goal of transforming their home’s chopped-up main floor into an incredible open space, the Kosturs called on the home renovation experts at Centennial 360. The couple had already established a good working relationship with the Centennial 360 team, having hired them previously to do some bathroom renovations. “One of the big reasons that we chose

Centennial 360 is that we know how difficult it is to try and find your own trades. They have their own team of experienced journeyperson plumbers, carpenters and electricians,” says David. “If you take on a reno of this size, you should have someone who can do it well.” “The Kosturs loved their house; it just wasn’t functional for them,” says Corinne Kaye, lead designer with Centennial 360. She met with the couple to discuss their vision for the home. “They wanted a transitional style, a blend of modern and traditional design elements.” “Corinne asked us about our lifestyle and how we wanted to use the home. Baking and canning are big things for me, so I had specific ideas for the kitchen,” says Terrie. The space also had to accommodate the Kosturs’ frequent family gatherings, which can attract as many as 20 or 30 people. “The way the home was before, there were walls everywhere. The most important thing for the Kosturs was to open up the kitchen, dining and family room, so they could cook and still be part of the conversation,” says Corinne. “We had a basic idea of what we wanted. For example, I wanted two-tone cabinets in the kitchen. I didn’t want the kitchen to be too dark, because it’s a north-facing room,” says Terrie. Now, exquisitely crafted Shaker-style cabinets of white painted maple contrast beautifully against a dark mocha maple island. That 14-foot quartz-topped island provides plenty of work space for Terrie’s baking and canning projects. It’s also an ideal serving area when entertaining. One end of the island features furniture-style table legs, allowing family members to sit across from each other and visit at meal-time. At the other end of the island is a cabinet with a lift-up shelf for Terrie’s industrial-size KitchenAid machine, which gets frequent work55

before outs on baking days. Terrie was also specific about certain features she wanted integrated into the cabinet design. One request was for a drawer where spice bottles could be stored flat, label up, for easy identification. A traditional china cabinet was replaced by elegant open shelving with dramatic back lighting. The couple’s selected built-in appliances also had to be integrated into the kitchen design. They are particularly enthusiastic about their Wolf convection steam oven and the drawer-style microwave oven. A sleek Italian natural stone floor, from Centennial 360’s StoneTile collection, unites the space. “I like it because it doesn’t show everyday wear and it’s so smooth on your feet,” says Terrie. Inviting light into the north-facing room was also important to enhance the feeling of spaciousness. Large windows now extend before

after across the width of the room, maximizing views of the gorgeous back yard. “Our family room used to be quite dark. In addition to the north-facing windows, Corinne also added a piano window on each side of the fireplace on the east wall. That’s really added a lot of light to the space. We now get the morning sun coming through, which is really nice,” says Terrie. The renovations extended beyond the great room, to the adjacent powder room which features a one-of-a-kind vanity fashioned from an antique sewing machine that belonged to Terrie’s mother. Centennial 360’s team figured out how to transform the antique stand into a vanity, with the addition of a Native Trails hand-hammered copper vessel sink and a Delta pump-style faucet. “We had people over after we finished the renovations. There was a line-up for the powder room because everyone wanted to after

see our vanity,” says Terrie. Corinne also redesigned the Kosturs’ laundry room, converting it into a superfunctional butler’s pantry, complete with built-in cabinetry, countertops, a utility sink and a refrigerator. “They did the laundry room first, so we would still be able to have a working fridge and a microwave oven during the renovations,” says David. To extend the transitional design theme through the entire main floor, the foyer and living room also received a facelift. New hand-scraped hardwood flooring in an elegant grey-brown tone was installed in the sunken living room. The existing blonde oak railings and interior doors were spray painted to match the kitchen’s dark wood tones. One of the most labour-intensive tasks in the living room was scraping the two inch-long stipple off the vaulted ceiling. The walls and ceiling were then painted to match the great

room’s colour palette. Cosmetic updates were also completed in the bedrooms located on the home’s second floor. With the renovation complete, the Kostur family is once again head-over-heels in love with their Silverwood home. “If you were in our home before, you wouldn’t recognize the main floor,” says Terrie. “We love it!”

Their renovation experience was very positive, adds David. “The Centennial 360 team communicated well and that’s so important. They did a great job.” This spring, the Kosturs’ Silverwood home received the Bridges Award for ‘Whole Home Renovation,’ presented by the Saskatoon & Region Home Builders’ Association. “The first Bridges renovation award

that Centennial 360 ever received was for a bathroom renovation. That was followed by a Bridges award for a kitchen renovation and best addition of the year. To now receive the ‘Whole Home’ renovation award really shows how Centennial 360 has grown and expanded as a business,” says the company’s Brand Manager Charmaine Elmgren. “We do every scale of renovation. The bigger, the better!” LS

MCKERCHER LLP BARRISTERS & SOLICITORS

For all of your new home, addition, & renovation design/drafting needs. Trained Professionals. Experienced. Recognized. Award Winning.

Solid Legal Advice real.estate@mckercher.ca mckercher.ca

CADvantage Design #110 - 4002 Arthur Rose Ave Saskatoon, SK S7P 0C9 373-3805 • www.cadvantagedesign.com

SASKATOON: (306) 653-2000 REGINA: (306) 565-6500

NEW MEMBER PROFILE

Father-and-son team, Mitch (left) and Myles Parkinson (right), formed Vox Development in 2012, specializing in infill builds.

I N T ROD U C I N G

Vox development b y A shleigh M attern P H O T O S B Y J E F F LY O N S

The owners of Vox Development have a different personal relationship than most co-owners: Mitch and Myles Parkinson are a father-son team. “It’s a catch-22,” says Myles, the younger Parkinson. Like father, like son, Myles says they both have strong opinions. They butt heads sometimes, and in a father-son relationship, “there’s no holding back,” says Myles, but they always work it out. Mitch was a drywall subcontractor for 35 years, founding Saskatoon Drywall. When he was approaching retirement, they started to discuss the possibility of passing on the family business, but Myles wanted to go in a different direction. Mitch ended up liquidating Saskatoon Drywall and joining forces with his son to create something new. “He had a lot of experience in the construction industry, and I was a young, ambitious individual looking for a partner,” says Myles. “It was a perfect fit.”

Myles takes care of the day-to-day business, and they meet once a week to discuss plans and upcoming projects. “We’ve learned day by day, year by year what each other’s weaknesses are and what each other’s strengths are,” says Myles. “We’ve grown as a company and as a relationship. As the months and years have gone by, it’s turned into quite a good thing.” Vox Development has been in business for three and a half years. They currently build about 10 houses per year, with about 75 per cent of their builds in the infill market. “We’re infill specialists,” says Myles. “We like to be able to fit our modern, sleek designs into the old, lived-in areas, but try not to stand out too much and too far, where it sticks out like a sore thumb. We kind of have an edgy look. It adds some lift to the area, and really gives it a vibrant look.... We give new life and new value to an old neighbourhood.” He says the recent changes to infill regulations in the city have been a benefit to

)

builders. As infill specialists, he says Vox is especially excited about being able to build on 25-foot lots in pre-war neighbourhoods. “It’s been really positive because the contractors have to sharpen their pencil to the architectural guidelines. It brings experienced developers to the table, and people with experience have a better product and better service, and at the end of the day, they have better customers who are happier.” Most of the homes they’ve built have clearly modern, sleek lines, but they also don’t limit themselves to that style; their more traditional, conservative homes also look great. Myles says the secret to their ability to produce consistent results on all their projects is through consistently using the same sub-contractors. He recognizes that success in the building industry will depend on Vox’s ability to form lasting relationships with tradespeople and other builders, which is one of the reasons why the business recently joined the Saskatoon & Region Home Builders’ Association (SRHBA). Myles says that while he expects a benefit from their membership in the long run, and he has already seen a benefit in the short run – through the information the SRHBA

has been providing them, and the boost it’s given to their reputation. “You see all the other reputable builders out there, and they’re all part of this great organization. We knew that was the next step we had to do to make our company reputable,” he says. “It’s good for the customers,

and it’s good for our employees.” Myles says he looks forward to networking and building relationships with other contractors and sub-trades, and getting more involved with the association. To see Vox Development’s work, visit their show home at 329 Second Street.

Wish list 1.

The ultimate master bath

By HILARY KLASSEN P H O T O S B Y J E F F LY O N S

Finding your bliss is getting easier these days! You may not even have to leave your house. A sublime version of bliss can be found in a well-appointed master bath. Increasingly, elements of the spa experience are becoming the home experience. What’s currently on the wish list for the master bath? Lori Pelletier, Showroom Manager at Kitchen & Bath Classics suggests some must-haves customers are looking for. 1. DREAM TUB “Every master bath needs a dream tub with customized jetting,” says Pelletier. This is the place for ultimate relaxation with the benefit of a whirlpool and/or air system or just a soak in a deep tub.” An air system

provides a consistent flow of air gently circulating the water and giving you a softer massage all over your body,” says Pelletier. “A hydro-massage or whirlpool system has a more forceful jetting system and allows for focused massage with individual jet control.” You can add extra features to your tub like an inline heater or ‘geysair.’ Warm air from the geysair envelopes the bather with a sense of well-being and maintains consistent warm water temperatures. “For mood therapy you can use aromatherapy with your favourite essential oils or colour therapy with built-in lights to help invigorate you or settle into a deeper relaxation,” she adds.

2. 2. STEAM THERAPY If the dream tub doesn’t suit your mood on a given day, the steam shower may be just the ticket. Steam therapy offers many benefits. It helps eliminate toxins in your body, improves blood circulation and opens pores. “Heat therapy is beneficial for chronic pain, relaxation and muscle tenderness and is just a great ending to a long day,” says Pelletier. “You can add aromatherapy to your steam experience to create the perfect mood.” 3. CUSTOMIZED SHOWER SYSTEM Shower spaces can be designed to deliver the exact function you like and need. “A multi-function head, whether on a shower rail or mounted on an arm, offers various settings with massage, a full pour, and rain settings, and can be taken off the bracket for when you are sitting and for cleaning the shower,” says Pelletier. Body jets can be custom installed in strategic locations to massage and target aches and pains unique to you. A rain head provides a full drench offering a more complete cleanse. While traditional valves for shower operation are a common choice, electronic shower valves can be pre-programed to deliver the exact temperature and settings users prefer. Technology for water conservation has advanced yet still provides the feel of a full spray. Complete your custom shower by adding an interesting shower door with exposed hardware. Pelletier says the trend is toward thicker glass and less hardware. But some hardware is still needed, and barn-style doors, structured pivot hinges and unique handles are attractive options.

4. A FEATURE VANITY AND MIRROR ‘You’re so vain’ (sang Carly Simon), you probably think this ‘bathroom’ is about you. And it is! Who doesn’t need a space to indulge a bit of vanity? “The vanity can be a space-saving wall mount or a floor-mount style,” says Pelletier. A mirror framed by matching wood works well; with shimmering facets, it becomes a jewel in your home. A copper vessel sink, with hammered copper and antique or shiny finishes, adds a hand-made touch. “Glass vessels come in many designs and add further glamour to your ensuite bath.” For supplemental storage, consider a medicine cabinet or linen tower. Hotel shelving and multiple towel bars can keep your toiletries and towels in check and streamline the morning routine. 5. NEOREST TOILET “Imagine a toilet where the heated seat opens when you approach and washes you with a built-in washlet when you’re done, with water heated to your liking and sprayed at a pressure and angle to suit your needs!” says Pelletier. This elegant and highly advanced toilet system has an air dryer and deodorizer, and operates from a remote control. “It has benefits of a bidet without the space.” The toilet is low-flow and uses very little water to operate. The SanaGloss finish makes for an easy clean bowl. The modern lifestyle craves space to luxuriate. Fulfilling the master bath wish list not only moves you closer to a luxurious spa experience, it contributes to well-being. Of course, a glass of wine within reach is totally optional. LS

5. 61

Q A

ASK AN EXPERT SHEILA ASHDOWN CENTURY 21 FUSION (306) 281-3410

bsashdown@sasktel.net www.sheilaashdown.ca

AWARD A AW W WINNING W WIN N Experienced Expe xp Knowledgeable K Knowl now n wl w Timely T Ti i Honest H Respectful R es Accommodating Acc A ccom CALL C CA ALL ALL ME FOR ALL A LL LL O OF YOUR REAL R EAL AL ESTATE NEEDS! N E

SHEILA ASHDOWN

306 281-3410

For listings and testimonials go to:

sheilaashdown.ca 62

Q: When listing my home, what should I look for in a real estate agent? A: Look for a realistic and honest agent with excellent communication and negotiation skills, as well as one with plenty of local area experience. Do not base your choice only on the agent that gives you the highest price and compliments your home the most. Q: Why is accurate pricing when listing my home so crucial? A: With as much actively listed product that is in Saskatoon and area today, it is important to be accurately evaluated and priced based on what has recently sold in comparable areas. This will help you gain as much showing and offer activity early in the listing as possible. Remember that the longer a property sits on the market, generally, the less it attains for price. Q: What is one of the biggest challenges faced by a Saskatoon real estate agent today? A: In my opinion it is knowing how to successfully pull together and keep a deal together through to closing. With many recent changes to mortgage qualification, lender requirements and expectations, combined with market saturation and competition, and legal paperwork, an agent has many responsibilities in trying to transition a smooth sale for clients. It requires an agent with dedication and perseverance to successfully liaison all factors in the sale to help insure that it completes for all parties involved. Q: What do you enjoy about being a real estate agent? A: I am constantly challenged with a fast-paced environment, filled with new clients and interesting people, stories and rewarding experiences. I enjoy meeting new people daily and being able to share my knowledge and expertise with them in either buying or selling their homes. Having a large referral-based business allows me the opportunity to also revisit, re-acquaint and thank my growing client and friend list. I enjoy being â&#x20AC;&#x153;on-the-job 24-7â&#x20AC;?, which is required of a good attentive real estate agent.

IN THe KITCHEN Chef Darby Kells grew up in a Ukrainian-Irish household where there were always lots of family meals and bonding times spent in the kitchen. His philosophy at Riversdale Delicatessen and Capanna Pizzeria is simple: quality, not quantity.

with

darby kells

riversdale delicatessen and market by J ennifer Jacob y-Smith P H O T O S B Y J E F F LY O N S

As executive chef at Riversdale Delicatessen and Market as well as Capanna Pizzeria next door, Darby Kells has a simple philosophy: quality, not quantity. Bread is made for the deli each morning from scratch in small batches. When those loaves are used up, there is no more. It means some customers will be disappointed, but Kells says he will not put together a lessthan-exceptional product. It’s a philosophy his customers have embraced. That philosophy extends to everything the delicatessen does – from the espresso it serves to the elaborate charcuterie board Kells sets out for various catering functions, to the imported meats, olive oils, vinegars and other ingredients in the market. While 32 year-old Kells spent two years

at the University of Saskatchewan pursuing a Fine Arts degree in acting, it was his childhood love of food and the bonds it creates that kept calling to him. “I grew up in a Ukrainian-Irish home and we were always picking food out of the garden and my dad was an avid hunter. It was perogies, cabbage rolls, fresh breads, soups − all the time,” remembers Kells. Eventually, he realized his passion was in the kitchen. He enrolled at SIAST’s cooking program and moved to Calgary to work in fine dining. But there was always a desire to return home to where he grew up in Saskatoon. His friends needled him about moving back every time he returned for a visit. One exuberant friend even took him for a tour of the 63

newest hot spot in the city – Riversdale. While Kells was intrigued, he said he needed the right opportunity. It wasn’t long before the opportunity presented itself. “When I got approached with the idea (for the delicatessen) I loved it. It was something I wanted to be a part of,” says Kells. He moved his wife and young family back to Saskatoon two years ago. Riversdale Delicatessen and Market was opened in early 2014. Meanwhile, construction started on Capanna Pizzeria next door and opened for business earlier this year. Situated in a unique curve-shaped building at the junction of 20th Street and Idylwyld Drive, Kells says it’s one of the busiest traffic arteries in the city. It also serves as a gateway to Riversdale – the neighbourhood which enticed him back to his hometown. Kells is passionate about creating delicious food and opportunities for friends and family to bond over a good meal. Both ventures focus on providing fresh, high-quality food. “We wanted to make sure we did it right from the start,” he explains. Kells shares a few of his favourite recipes to enjoy at your family’s table featuring simple, yet bold flavours. First, friend and sous chef Justin Krieger shares a simple recipe for a classic Italian pizza. Next is a beautiful combination of fresh flavours in a caprese salad and basic caraway seed bread. “There’s something so satisfying about (baking bread),” says Kells. “You are literally creating something from nothing. If you have a good base recipe like this one then it’s whatever you want to add into it.” A comforting bowl of mushroom risotto follows. The final dish – pork belly – might be a new one for most home cooks, but Kells says the technique of braising a tough cut with fragrant ingredients – such as fennel and rosemary – at a low temperature produces a very tender meat. He adds you can substitute any tough cut of pork you like. LS

Margarita Pizza Sauce:

1 large can San Marzano tomatoes 1/4 cup minced garlic 1/2 cup fresh minced basil Salt Procedure:

Place all ingredients in blender and blend on low until all ingredients are incorporated evenly. Salt to taste. Place in fridge. Toppings:

Sauce One ball of buffalo mozzarella Fresh basil leaves Shaved parmesan cheese Place pizza dough on pizza stone or sheet pan with parchment. If you do not have parchment, then sprinkle cornmeal under dough. Pre-heat oven to 450°F. Spread desired amount of sauce on dough evenly. Shred buffalo mozzarella over surface of dough. Place in oven until light brown. Turn oven to broil to caramelize the mozzarella. Garnish pizza with fresh basil leaves and shaved Parmesan. 64

Caprese Salad Serves 2

4 roma or cocktail tomatoes 1 Tbsp. minced garlic 1 Tbsp. minced onion 2 small bunches fresh basil pinch of salt pinch of chilli flakes 3 Tbsp. olive oil 3 Tbsp. balsamic vinegar Procedure:

Cut tomatoes into bite size pieces. In a large bowl combine all the ingredients and toss together until evenly coated. Place in serving bowl.

Mushroom Risotto Serves 4

1 cup Arborio rice 4 Tbsp. olive oil 1/2 minced onion 1 Tbsp. minced garlic 1 cup dried mushrooms 1 litre water 1/4 cup cubed butter 1/2 cup grated parmesan Procedure:

Start by adding 1 litre of hot water to the dried mushrooms and let stand for 1 hour, set aside. Sauté onions and garlic with olive oil in a pan until light brown then add rice. Stir for a few minutes then add one ladle of mushroom stock at a time. Continue to add mushroom stock one ladle at a time until rice is cooked. Take off the heat and slowly add in the butter and cheese.

Caraway Seed Bread Makes 4 loaves

1200 grams all-purpose flour 65 grams fresh yeast 15 grams salt 15 grams caraway seed 40 grams olive oil 775 grams warm water Procedure:

Start by putting flour in a mixing bowl. In a separate container whisk together water, salt, olive oil, yeast and caraway seed until yeast is dissolved. Set the wet mixture aside for 10 minutes. Mix flour on low speed and slowly add the yeast mixture. Once all the liquid is added then turn speed up and mix dough for five minutes. You might have to add a touch more flour to the mixing bowl to prevent the dough from

sticking to the sides too much. Turn mixer off and remove the dough from the mixer. Place it onto a floured surface and continue to knead by hand for five minutes. Once the dough is smooth place it into a large greased bowl and cover with cling film and set aside till dough doubles in size. Remove and cut dough into four equal pieces. Shape the four dough pieces into balls and place them on a sheet tray with parchment. Pre-heat oven to 400° F. and bake dough until golden brown.

Braised Pork Belly Serves 4

5 lbs. pork belly 1 large onion, diced 1 celery stalk, diced 1 carrot, diced 10 garlic cloves 2 cups red wine 2 rosemary stems 4 bay leaves Salt Procedure:

Heat a large pan with olive oil and wait until it’s very hot. Place pork belly into the pan and caramelize meat until dark brown. Flip pork over and begin to caramelize other side. Add onions, carrots, celery and garlic to the pan. Cook until golden brown. Add rosemary, bay leaves and salt. Wait a couple minutes then add the red wine. Top pan up with water and cover with tin foil. Place in oven at 350° F. for 4 hours. When the belly is fork tender then remove the belly from liquid and let cool in refrigerator overnight. Cut belly into 4-inch cubes and bake in the oven at 400° F. until nice and crispy.

We’ll get your claim going in 30 minutes. Protect your home with Prestige.

Meet Prestige: Customizable protection for the things that mean the most to you, higher coverage limits, dedicated around-the-clock claims service and standard features you won’t find in your typical home insurance policy.

Mix and match options to protect your distinctive lifestyle: Whether you’re a home business owner or a specialty interests collector; a savvy investor or have a yard full of boats, bikes, pets and machines.

Ask your SGI CANADA broker about Prestige. www.sgicanada.ca

2015 + 16+ years experience + Saskatoonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading builder of Quality Homes + streetscape.ca

We m a ke i t s i m p le !

A LOOK FOR FALL Make it yours by choosing what you want > bi-level, two storey, or bungalow with or without separate basement entry > cabinets, countertops, flooring, paint colours, lighting and more Call our sales team at 306.370.7323 or visit our website for more information INVITING HARDWOOD FLOORS, GRANITE OR QUARTZ COUNTERTOPS & TILE BACKSPLASHES

streetscape.ca