SP-Living Spaces Fall Oct 24

LIVING

SPACES FA L L / W I N T E R 2 018

LOTTO LUXURY LOTTO LUXURY

Grand prize show home goes Midcentury Modern Grand prize show home goes Midcentury Modern

SOLAIR SOLAIR

Arbutus reveals plans for solar-powered community Arbutus reveals plans for solar-powered community

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

FALL/WINTER 2018 features 8

12 14 20 22

30

LOTTERY LUXURY Midcentury Modern influences distinguish grand prize show home Opening the door to home ownership VISIONARIES Arbutus reveals plans for solar-powered community Mortgage interest rates are rising. What should you do?

IN THE GARAGE Auto Connection’s VIP Benefits Program offers unique advantages to motorists TREND REPORT The return of the sectional

design & renovation

18 Chalk it up!

25 Simple steps to designing a room 26 Your condo, your way 29 Is it time for new windows?

departments 11 ASK AN EXPERT: Saskatchewan Construction Safety Association 16 ASK AN EXPERT: Centennial Plumbing Heating Electrical 24 ASK AN EXPERT: Maison Design + Build 28 ASK AN EXPERT: Fresco Interiors Design Group 35 ASK AN EXPERT: Jacquie Chilliak, Century 21 Fusion 6

18 26

LIVING SPACES

39 food & entertaining 39 IN THE KITCHEN: City Perks chefs Jody Taylor & Danielle Spence

12

Email: jarmstrong@postmedia.com

EDITOR

Jeannie Armstrong

ART DIRECTION Lesley Cockburn

8 14

PHOTOGRAPHY Elaine Mark Jeff Lyons

To reserve your advertising space in the upcoming edition of living spaces, contact: mark hamilton Tel: (306) 657-6415 mhamilton@postmedia. com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

M E S SA G E F R O M T H E E D I T O R

A

utumn is the season to head indoors and get cozy with the latest edition of Living Spaces! Join us on a tour of the magnificent Hospital Home Lottery grand prize show home, as designer Edie Riekman shares the inspiration behind the home’s Midcentury Modern design theme. Looking for a quick way to update your home? How about adding a chalkboard paint feature? Is it time to refresh your furnishings? Our furniture trend report is sure to inspire. And to tempt your taste buds, the chefs at City Perks share some delectable recipes. Enjoy!

Jeannie Armstrong D. Grant Black Tom Eremondi Elizabeth Ireland Jennifer Jacoby-Smith Hilary Klassen

PUBLISHER

The StarPhoenix Cover photo courtesy of Para Paints

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FALL/WINTER 2018

7

makes better pands living a fine job of ourhood.

LOTTERY lUXUry The lower walk-out level of the lottery home is designed for entertaining.

The large family room features a surround sound system and a full wet bar.

A garden door leads to an outdoor patio. PhoTos by QUeen ciTy 3d

By JEANNiE ARMSTRoNG

H

ave you ever wondered where the builders of those incredible lottery homes find their inspiration?

When designing and constructing the $1.3 million grand prize show home for the Fall 2018 Hospital Home Lottery, North Ridge Development Corporation pulled out all the stops.

“There were probably a dozen people who had a say in the design process of the home.

Even (North Ridge co-founder) Wally Mah put his two cents in on this project. We’re pretty happy with how it turned out,” says Errol Fisher, North Ridge Vice-President of Operations.

“It’s a great way for North Ridge to give back to the community. It’s also an opportunity for people to come out and see what we can do.”

The 3,332 square foot show home is located

8

LIVING SPACES

Midcentury Modern influences distinguish grand prize show home at 104 Greenbryre Lane in Greenbryre Estates.

The sprawling prairie modern two-storey features four bedrooms, four bathrooms, five custom fireplaces and so much more!

Fisher describes the lottery home’s architectural style as Prairie Modern, featuring a classic asymmetrical form, flat roof lines with wide overhanging eaves and banks of windows that welcome the surrounding landscape into the home.

The home’s interior design is a nod to Midcentury Modern design, says Edie Riekman, founder of Interior Designs by Edie and North Ridge’s long-time interior design consultant.

According to Architectural Digest, the characteristics of Midcentury Modern design include “organic influences, simple forms and emphasis on function.”

“I took a little bit of creative license with the Midcentury Modern theme. It doesn’t honour it in all respects. Key to me were the clean graphic lines, which are reflected throughout the home and in the style of the furniture,” says Riekman.

“I did a Kinsmen Lottery home last year in Midcentury Modern and it’s a theme I’m comfortable with. I’ve always liked the designers from that era,” says Riekman.

The hit TV show Mad Men, set in the 1960s and early 1970s, is credited with the revival of Midcentury Modernism in North America. The show’s meticulously curated sets showcased Danish modern furnishings, grounded in dark neutral hues, punctuated by bright pops of vivid colour including orange, turquoise and magenta.

That same influence can be seen in the

inviting living room of the lottery home, furnished with a minimalist upholstered sofa, an eye-catching turquoise sculpted accent chair and glass-topped gold-toned accent tables.

A louvered dividing wall between the show home’s living room and upper staircase sparked the design process for Riekman. “The louvres are fixed in place, but each louvre changes direction by 2.5 degrees. So it has more of a fluid feeling to it, instead of a rigid feel. As you cross the room, each one changes – it kind of walks with you. We did the same thing in the front foyer. So many houses from the 1960s had those dividing walls. It’s a bit of a throwback piece.”

A two-way fireplace (one of five in the lottery home) separates the living room from the kitchen.

Midcentury Modernism has also influenced the design of the huge kitchen, which features white maple upper and caramel woodgrain lower cabinets topped with white quartz.

The quartz-topped two-tiered maple island, in a contrasting charcoal grey, is the strategic hub of this kitchen. “It’s a huge working surface but the extended table is also a large family eating area,” says Riekman. “It’s the way families eat today; they all congregate in the kitchen instead of having a formal dining room.”

The tile backsplash, which resembles distressed wood, is visually intriguing. “I’d never seen a tile like that before. It became the glue that tied everything together in this kitchen – the white cabinets, the dark charcoal from the island and the black stainless appliances,” says Riekman.

Adding to the functionality of the kitchen is a convenient walk-in pantry, which leads into the large mudroom that has direct access to the triple attached garage.

The lottery home’s second floor is a luxurious retreat, beginning with the TV lounge located at the top of the stairs. The home’s second fireplace adds to the room’s cozy ambience.

You’ll discover the home’s third fireplace in the luxury-laden master bedroom. This two-

North Ridge Development Corporation chose Prairie Modern as the architectural style for the exterior of the $1.3 million grand prize show home in Greenbryre Estates.

North Ridge Development Corporation designed and built the spectacular $1.3 million grand prize show home for the Fall 2018 Hospital Home Lottery. The 3,332 square foot show home features four bedrooms, four bathrooms, five custom fireplaces and more!

North Ridge designer Edie Riekman selected a Midcentury Modern design theme for the Fall 2018 Hospital Home Lottery grand prize show home. The 1960s-style louvered dividing wall influenced the designer’s selection of Midcentury Modern furnishings and accents.

FALL/WINTER 2018

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The lottery home’s fifth fireplace is located on the deck, overlooking the park-like half-acre lot.

way fireplace can be enjoyed while in the bedroom or the adjoining ensuite bath. The custom walk-in shower, sculpted soaker tub and the TV integrated into the mirror create the feeling of a home spa.

Fireplace number four is located in the family room of the lottery home’s fully developed walkout basement. Ideal for entertaining, this spacious, light-filled room includes a surround sound system and a quartz-topped wet bar. A garden door leads

Midcentury Modernism has also influenced the design of the huge kitchen, which features white maple upper and caramel woodgrain lower cabinets topped with white quartz. The backsplash tile, which resembles distressed wood, ties all the design elements together.

out onto the backyard patio.

Where is fireplace number five? On the sprawling outdoor deck that overlooks the home’s huge park-like back yard.

Bruce Acton, chair of the Hospital Home Lottery and CEO of St. Paul’s Hospital Foundation, says the organization is thrilled to work with North Ridge Development Corporation on this season’s grand prize show home. “North Ridge is a fabulous builder, a quality builder in the community.

They did a fabulous job. We’re really pleased with the partnership.”

The grand prize show home will be awarded fully furnished, professional decorated and landscaped, along with a $50,000 cash prize.

Every ticket purchased supports the growth and development of care and services at Saskatoon’s three hospitals: St. Paul’s, Royal University and Saskatoon City Hospital.

For information, visit www. hospitalhomelottery.org.

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10

LIVING SPACES

Hiring a Safe Contractor

ASK AN EXPERT

Saskatchewan Construction Safety Association 2606 Koyl Ave. | 306.652.0907 www.scsaonline.ca

By CoLLiN PULLAR, SCSA PRESiDENT

What are COR® and SECOR®?

The Certificate of Recognition (COR®) program is an occupational health and safety program designation verifying that a company has a fullyimplemented health and safety program that meets national standards. It is nationally trademarked and is endorsed by participating members of the Canadian Federation of Construction Safety Associations, including the Saskatchewan Construction Safety Association (SCSA).

The Small Employer Certificate of Recognition (SECOR®) program is a process whereby a company with nine or less employees (including sub-contractors) develops and maintains an effective health and safety management system.

What is the ultimate goal of the program?

To provide companies, small and large, with the knowledge and tools to develop effective health and safety management systems to identify weaknesses that can lead to costly workplace injuries and incidents.

What are the main benefits of being certified?

Injury prevention and cost savings: COR® and SECOR® certified companies can experience reduced financial costs associated with injuries and incidents. A good safety record will enhance an organization’s reputation in the industry.

Pre-bid qualification: COR® and SECOR® certification is a pre-bid qualification requirement for many buyers of construction in Saskatchewan.

Due diligence: The documentation and general safety awareness produced by the COR® and SECOR® process may also provide evidence of due diligence if a company is charged with an OHS offence. Through the process of training, program development, and implementation, companies build a more effective organization.

Why should a buyer of construction services look for a company with COR® or SECOR® certification?

Companies that are carefully methodical in their management of safety are more likely to be carefully methodical about other aspects of their business management: marketing, financial management, operations, human resources, communications, ethical awareness, environmental, risk management and quality.

Safety and methodical safety management can be a powerful asset to a company – a contributor to its performance and a proxy of good management.

Many of Saskatchewan’s leading businesses have made significant advances in safety as a principal risk-mitigation tool to control avoidable losses in regard to production (down-time), environmental impact, human (injuries and fatalities), financial, and company reputation.

Firms can face hefty fines, criminal charges, and jail time for failing to fulfill their legislative obligation to ensure the safety of their workers.

The SCSA is an industry-funded, membership-based, non-profit organization that provides cost-effective, accessible safety training and advice to employers and employees in the construction industry throughout the province to reduce the human and financial losses associated with injuries. Registered March 20, 1995, the SCSA is, and has been since inception, committed to injury prevention.

Serving almost 10,000 member companies, with business offices in both Regina and Saskatoon, the mission of the SCSA is constructing safety leadership in Saskatchewan and the vision is to create the safest construction environment in Canada. For more information visit www.scsaonline.ca.

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FALL/WINTER 2018

11

SPONSORED BY NEW ROCK DEVELOPMENTS

Opening the door to

HOME OWNERSHIP

BY JENNIFER JACOBY-SMITH

“W

hy rent when you can own?” asks Kaleb Motz of NewRock Developments. It’s more than just a catchy slogan; the company, based in Medicine Hat, focuses on removing barriers to home ownership.

“NewRock was built on the idea that everyone should be able to own a home. We like to do what we can to remove the barriers that people can face when making one of life’s most important purchases,” Motz says.

This philosophy is alive and well at

12

LIVINGSPACES

Meadowview Point – NewRock’s latest project in the Evergreen Neighborhood – and a continuation of the now soldout Meadowview Terrace. Already under construction the project will be located at the intersection of Aktar Bend and Baltzan Boulevard. Business is already brisk, with the first building of the project nearly sold out.

According to Motz the project is getting a lot of attention because they are offering high quality homes at attractive price points.

Beyond the price points, NewRock is also providing down payment assistance through exclusive partnerships with the City of Saskatoon, CMHC, and Genworth Financial.

“This is where the project can get really exciting. We understand that one of the

biggest barriers people face when buying a home is the ability to save for a down payment. If you qualify for a grant, your down payment can be either partly or fully covered – with no need for repayment,” says Motz. “This program really sets us apart and truly helps make home ownership more affordable.”

The new project will have 11 different floor plans for buyers to choose from in the three-storey condo building. The floor plans range in size from 800 to 1,240 square feet.

It’s a great size for university students, young families or anyone looking to get into their first home.

“These floor plans lend themselves well to the first-time homebuyer demographic.

NewRock Developments is built on the philosophy that everyone should be able to own their own home. Their down payment assistance program opens the door for many to home ownership.

Construction is well underway at Meadowview Point. PHOTOS BY NEW ROCK

Paired with down payment assistance, it’s a winning combo,” explains Motz.

NewRock has been building various projects in Saskatoon for the last seven years. However, as a larger builder, they have developments throughout British Columbia, Alberta, and Saskatchewan. In addition to projects like Meadowview Point, the company also builds communities of bungalow condos, townhomes, and singlefamily homes.

“We’re well-versed in different markets and different products, so I think that shows itself well in all of our projects,” Motz says.

The new Meadowview project continues with what Motz calls “reality-tested floor plans.”

“They are very practical with open concept floor plans that lend themselves to the modern lifestyle.”

As well, NewRock Developments prides themselves on creating floor plans that are wheelchair accessible. “We have a selection of floor plans that are designed from the ground-up for accessibility. We’re not just

making small alterations – these plans are completely customized to individual situations and needs.”

For more information about NewRock or their down payment assistance programs, visit www.newrockhomes.ca. The company is also very active on social media, so be sure

to look them up on Facebook and Twitter to see new blog posts, virtual tours, and other exciting announcements.

New Rock hopes to open a show suite in the new Meadowview Point project early in 2019. Until then interested buyers can visit the show home at 210 Rajput Way.

THIS STORY WAS CREATED BY CONTENT WORKS, POSTMEDIA’S COMMERCIAL CONTENT DIVISION. FALL/WINTER 2018

13

V I S I O N AR I E S

SOLAIR:

ARBUTUS REVEALS PLANS FoR SOLAR-POWERED COMMUNITY

Concept drawings of Arbutus Properties’ ‘Solair’ development. The solar-powered community will be a first for Canada. concePT drawinGs coUrTesy oF arbUTUs ProPerTies

14

LIVING SPACES

By D. GRANT BLACK

C

anada’s first solar-powered neighbourhood is coming to Saskatoon.

In a province with the most hours of sunshine per year in Canada, it makes sense to point thousands of solar panels skyward to reduce dependence on Saskatchewan’s majority electricity source: coal-fired generators.

That’s what Arbutus Properties, the developers who built The Meadows, have planned for Saskatoon. They call it “Solair.”

“Arbutus Properties has been working in Saskatoon for quite some time and we really like this city,” says Jeffrey Drexel, president of the Vancouver residential and commercial development company.

Why did Arbutus Properties choose Saskatoon instead of larger housing markets like Vancouver and Toronto?

“We think that the approach city council is taking is in alignment with this type of project. Why somewhere else? Why not here?”

Drexel says there would be a few challenges to build a solar-powered community where his company is based.

“This project wouldn’t be as easy to do in Vancouver given the amount of cloud and rain,” he says with a laugh.

Arbutus Properties’ Solair vision is to build the largest renewable energybased, sustainable community in Canada.

Solair (solairliving.com) is a $350 million investment over seven years that’s expected to create up to 200 jobs.

The Solair development is a joint venture between Arbutus Properties and former Saskatoon residents Stefan and Roma

Franko. In 2002, the couple moved to Toronto to be closer to their two sons and grandchildren.

The Franko property, located north of Costco off Zimmerman Road, is currently farmland. Drexel says the site is ideally located to leverage the existing topography, pond and stream water system while preserving key aspects of natural prairie vegetation.

A sustainable community focuses on self-generation of renewable energy and well-built, efficient homes that use less energy to heat and cool.

Solair will harness the sun through a community solar photovoltaic system.

Each home is equipped with solar panels and contributes to a district power source.

Drexel says Solair will have a “buy-sell relationship” with SaskPower. On sunny days, Solair will sell electricity back to SaskPower’s grid and on cloudy days the community can draw SaskPower energy as required.

“SaskPower plans to move to 50 per cent renewable energy by 2030,” says Drexel. “Solair would be a relatively small contribution but a contribution all the same.”

The development company has plans for Solair beyond solar energy. Solair will re-invent the traditional Saskatoon subdivision: low-impact instead of the

current high-impact approach to new development.

Arbutus Properties is showcasing its “Urban Eco Living” philosophy with creative planning and development practices geared towards ecological, environmental and quality of life goals.

And their progressive approach is also economically viable.

According to the Solair developer, caroriented, cookie-cutter suburban housing environments increase the city’s footprint, from an ecological and geographic perspective. The Arbutus Properties approach changes the traditional development pattern: an innovative land planning approach that incorporates the latest thinking in ecological and thoughtful site design.

Solair is designed to retain and manage storm water on site; this reduces the need for deep underground pipes. Bioswales, rain gardens and ponds replace storm drains. Indigenous plants reduce the need for irrigation. Natural wetlands are preserved and integrated into the water management system.

Solair is located on a greenfield site (undeveloped land) in Saskatoon’s southeastern boundary, adjacent to The Meadows. The 121-hectare development will connect to existing municipal

services and waive the need for additional significant investment in major trunk service extension by the City of Saskatoon.

This green housing concept isn’t limited to solar energy. Sustainable communities like Solair are intended to promote positive interaction between neighbours. Streets are designed to calm traffic and encourage pedestrians.

Reduced paved surfaces encourage a pedestrian-oriented environment, which allows more connectivity to the existing communities of Saskatoon through bike networks and public transportation.

A balanced mix of single-family and high-density cluster housing allows for more green space (more than an average Saskatoon development), walking trails and bikeways within a standard city grid system.

Solair’s community retail “High Street” will enable residents to live, shop and work in their neighbourhood.

When completed, this master-planned neighbourhood will encompass 2,200 homes and approximately 7,000 residents housed in single-family homes, townhomes and condominiums.

Roughly 40 per cent of Solair will consist of single-family housing. The remaining 60 per cent will be townhouses and condominium apartments.

Drexel says single-family homes will share the same price point as The Meadows, around $350,000, townhouses around $280,000 and condos priced in the low 200s.

“We feel that we brought a different element to The Meadows that wouldn’t have traditionally been done in Saskatoon,” says Drexel. He adds that Arbutus Properties has always prided itself as being ahead of the curve.

“We built on that philosophy with Solair.

Arbutus Properties is at the forefront, we’re thinking ahead and we’re progressive.”

FALL/WINTER 2018

15

ASK AN EXPERT

Darren Keene, Service Technician Centennial Plumbing Heating Electrical

2630 Millar Avenue – NEW ADDRESS! • 306.500.1296 info@centennialplumbing.com | www.centennialplumbing.com

Heating & Cooling How do I make sure my furnace is ready for winter?

First, make sure your furnace filter is clear and changed on a regular basis as clogged filters can lead to component failures. Next, check to see if your thermostat uses batteries and change them if it does. The other thing I’d recommend is checking your heat registers to make sure they’re open, especially in the basement. Finally, the very best thing you can do is to call a certified technician to your home to perform a furnace tune-up. During this tune-up, the technician will check and test your chimney, heat exchanger, venting, burner system, ignition system, gas valve, flame sensor, limits, blower, filter, gas line and your thermostat. An annual tune-up provides peace of mind and can prevent breakdowns.

What do I do if I come home and find my furnace not working?

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LIVING SPACES

There are a few things I would recommend checking if you find yourself without heat in the winter. Start at the thermostat and make sure that it has power, the heat mode is on and that it’s calling for heat. Then check the exhaust and intake pipes to ensure they aren’t frozen over. Next, make sure the filter is clear of debris; change it if it’s not perfect. The next step would be to go to the furnace switch and make sure that it’s in the “on” position. If it is, turn it to “off ” for 15 seconds and turn it back on, resetting the furnace. The furnace should attempt to light again. If it does light, I’d still recommend having a tune-up done to help you avoid another breakdown. If it doesn’t light, call in a professional to figure out the problem.

How do I know if it’s time to replace my furnace?

These days, furnaces generally last between 10 to 15 years. There are a few issues that would force you to change your furnace, like a dangerous cracked heat exchanger. If your furnace has been repaired more than once and it is over 10 years old, I’d seriously consider replacing it. You’ll benefit with increased gas and electrical efficiency, a great warranty and the peace of mind to know that you’ll have heat all winter long.

Is there anything I need to do to keep my family safe going into the winter season?

From a heating point of view, make sure you have a carbon monoxide detector in your home. This will detect the odourless and deadly gas that could circulate through your home if your furnace has a crack in its heat exchanger or a venting problem. Plumbingrelated tasks include blowing out your sprinklers and testing your main water shut off. Electrically, I’d recommend testing your smoke alarms and changing the batteries. Being proactive can help keep you and your family safe!

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A chalkboard menu adds flair to the wet bar in the home of Jody Minakakis, sales manager with Arbutus Properties.

PhoTo by elaine mark, d & m imaGes

18

f you’ve ever had a latent impulse to scribble on the wall, there are some newly sanctioned ways to indulge that whim! All you need is a little paint, some colourful chalk and of course, a chosen wall, and you’re ready to go.

Chalkboard walls are a growing design trend that allows for some self-expression within your home. Why should restaurants with their chalkboard menus have all the fun? The potential for in-home artistry, comedy and even inspiration is endless.

With chalkboard paint, walls that were static become dynamic and interactive, and adding paint is one of the easiest design fixes.

“The beauty of chalkboard paint is that it is easy to apply – allowing you to instantly transform any surface into a chalkboard,” says Hannah Yeo, Benjamin Moore Colour & Design Expert. With thousands of colour options, chalkboard paint can be both aesthetically pleasing and functional.

The chalkboard wall trend has strengthened in recent years through a growing interest in minimalist lifestyles and smaller living spaces. It has spawned clever ways to design and decorate, Yeo says.

“Flexible design that can serve multipurpose is becoming more and more popular – and paint is no exception.”

One of Yeo’s favourite places to incorporate chalkboard paint is on the back of a door. “It adds an element of surprise.

Add your inspirational quote or reminders before you head out. It’s also a great place to add a pop of colour.”

Another suggestion by Yeo is to paint the lower half of the walls with a darker chalkboard paint as a practical yet beautiful way to add colour. A dark gray or navy painted wainscoting not only hides dirt but also grounds the room and adds depth to the space. “It’s a great way to allow your little ones express their art skills without giving up on your design,” says Yeo. Kids’ playrooms are a natural location for chalkboard paint, whether it’s an entire wall or a chalkboard accent in a heart-shape, perhaps. With chalkboard walls, parents can provide a fun space and rest easy as their kids unleash their creativity, knowing they’re not damaging anything while freely

A chalkboard paint backsplash can bring café ambience into your kitchen.

Chalkboard paint is a beautiful way to add colour to a room. Photos: benjamin moore

Chalkboard paint can be used to turn up the drama around a fireplace.

drawing on the wall. “Benjamin Moore’s Gennox Color Technology delivers rich colours with durability so that you can enjoy the chalkboard paint after multiple uses.

Simply clean with soap and water for a fresh new canvas,” says Yeo. Jody Minakakis, sales manager at Arbutus Properties, says their family was attracted to the versatility and interactivity afforded by chalkboard in the home. “We wanted a chalk wall as we felt it was a unique feature to have in our family room. It allows creativity while maintaining style,” says Jody Minakakis. “As it is easily updated, we can add different uses as our kids grow.”

Minakakis says they have enjoyed fun

evenings where they use the wall to draw pictures and play games. “We also like to have different phrases high up on the wall – for example Dr. Seuss – as it defines the ‘kids’ space.”

Encouraging kids to express their artistic natures is a core value at Arbutus, says designer Jenn Lapsiuk. The company likes to incorporate fun spaces for kids in their home designs. Children can foster creativity and artistic expression through the use of multiple colours, shapes and designs.

Chalkboard walls or features are loved for multiple reasons and used in multiple ways. Yeo encourages people to look beyond clipboards and mason jars and explore unique ways to incorporate chalkboard paint – like a chalkboard backsplash, which could become a place where favourite recipes are beautifully recorded.

Trends come and go, but the chalkboard paint trend may have more staying power than most. “An unexpected use of chalkboard will always feel fresh,” says Yeo. Visit a Benjamin Moore store near you or go online at benjaminmoore.com/en-ca to begin planning your chalkboard feature.

Chalk it up to good design sense!

A chalkboard feature wall encourages creativity, making it a great addition to any child’s bedroom.

FALL/WINTER 2018

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MORTGAGE INTEREST RATES ARE RISING.

What should you do?

By ELiZABETH iRELAND

I

n light of increasing mortgage interest rates, there are strategies that prospective homebuyers or homebuilders should keep in mind. These also apply to current homeowners who are about to renew a mortgage.

Saskatoon-based Chantelle Stefaniuk is a Mobile Mortgage Specialist with Conexus Credit Union. She has worked in the financial services industry for 14 years, including three years in her current role. Conexus Credit Union is the largest credit union in Saskatchewan.

“The biggest impact we see

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LIVING SPACES

with increasing interest rates is in the overall mortgage payment amount. In the grand scheme of things, interest rates are still relatively low. It’s worth remembering that in the early 1980s Canadian mortgage interest rates hit a high of 21 per cent,” says Stefaniuk.

Stefaniuk encourages her clients to spend time reviewing their household budget, making sure to have a financial cushion in place. With the use of debit and credit cards, it can be an eye-opener to see how much items (such as groceries or entertainment) cost each month. It is usually more than clients expect.

Then there is what Stefaniuk refers to as “the million-dollar question.” What advice does she have on the best mortgage option right now, in terms of the length of amortization and fixed versus variable options?

“While many of our clients go for a five-year fixed-rate mortgage, it really does depend on individual goals and what makes the most

sense at that point in time. Are you potentially moving in a few years or is this your forever home? Are you newlyweds who are planning on growing your family soon? Does the company you work for have rumors of layoffs to come? A mortgage specialist can help walk you through these considerations.”

Because a variable-rate mortgage floats with the overall prime rate, it might be advantageous for making higher payments on the principal. On the other hand, a fixed-rate mortgage can provide a sense of stability when interest rates are rising.

In Canada, mortgage default insurance lets qualified clients purchase a home with a down payment of as little as five per cent. The insurance provides a safety net for federally regulated banks and credit unions. When a client makes a down payment of 20 per cent (or more) on the home price, it is considered an uninsured mortgage.

As of January 2018, the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI) introduced new rules on mortgage lending by setting a ‘stress test’ for uninsured mortgages. The rules now require that the minimum qualifying rate for an uninsured mortgage is the Bank of Canada’s five-year benchmark rate or the client’s mortgage interest rate plus two per cent, whichever is the higher. The ‘stress test’ applies to new mortgage loan agreements and does not apply when a homeowner is renewing an existing mortgage.

Stefaniuk emphasizes that the most important thing a client can do before putting an offer on a home is to be pre-approved for a mortgage. There is no cost to be pre-approved.

As well as mortgage renewals, Stefaniuk’s clients include first-time homebuyers, clients building a new home or an infill, and clients upgrading to a larger home or downsizing to something smaller. In all these cases, she recommends the twin strategies of thoroughly reviewing your household budget and getting pre-approved for a mortgage.

On the issue of credit scores, Stefaniuk has thoughts on how it can impact the mortgage interest rate that financial institutions offer a client.

“It’s definitely important to maintain your

The most important thing you can do before putting an offer on a home is to be preapproved for a mortgage. There is no cost to be pre-approved. Photo: Getty images

credit score. Any missed payments can be an issue and that includes items like speeding tickets, parking tickets and cell phone bills.

Always pay your minimum payment on time. Also, be wary of having too many credit checks in a year since that can count against your credit score. People don’t think of it, but something like car shopping with multiple dealerships doing multiple credit checks can have an impact.”

Finally, is it ever a good idea to switch lenders or to refinance an existing mortgage?

“If it’s a new home, a mortgage renewal or a new mortgage product, then yes, do your due diligence. For an existing mortgage, do your homework to ensure that the switch will be cost effective. This means that the administrative costs or penalties for switching lenders will be less than the money saved with the new mortgage terms.

“My best advice overall would be to trust your mortgage specialist and build a good, available team around you. After all, this is the largest financial commitment of your life.”

Live Life Lakeside Landscaped | Driveway | Fenced Yard

Part of the Smart Home Series 802 Kensington Blvd | Saturday & Sunday 1 - 5PM northprairiehomes.com

420’s

$

From the

FALL/WINTER 2018

21

IN T HE GA RA GE

Auto Connection’s Auto Care Service Centre is located at 2909 miners Avenue. PHOTOS BY JEFF LYONS

Auto Connection’s VIP benefits program offers unique advantages to motorists

By Tom ErEmondi

F

ace it, s er vicing y o u r vehicle is a necessary part of owning an automobile – involving your time and money. It can be intimidating for motorists who don’t know where to place their trust or confidence – until they discover the Auto Connection difference.

Auto Connection is committed to providing motorists with a positive auto repair experience. “We sell cars the way we’d like to buy one and that’s the same approach we take to servicing vehicles,” says founder and president, Dustin Kalthoff.

Kalthoff founded the business in 2008. “I’ve loved cars all my life and got the opportunity to sell cars for a local dealer but then decided to go to university. I tried to stay on part-time but that wasn’t possible so I created my own business.”

He rented a small retail spot and created his own dealership with his own philosophy. “I’m

22

LIVINGSPACES

dustin Kalthoff is the founder of Auto Connection. The company’s used vehicle sales centre is located on 43rd Street. Kalthoff opened Auto Connection’s service centre in 2018.

a no b.s. kind of guy and that’s what I brought to sales. My goal with Auto Connection was to bring in really good vehicles and sell them at the lowest price in the province with no dickering. In 2008, it was ahead of its time.”

The concept took off because in the next few years, Kalthoff reports that he sold more

than $4 million of inventory while still in university. An honours student, he soon found the business was interfering with his studies so closed the dealership to finish his degree.

Kalthoff re-opened Auto Connection in 2014. “We opened our lot on 43rd Street

members of Auto Connection’s ViP Benefits Program enjoy immediate savings, including a 30 per cent discount on already very competitive shop rates.

Auto Connection is an SGI-accredited, full-service shop that does everything from oil changes to engine and transmission rebuilds. PHOTOS BY JEFF LYONS

and it grew quickly. We kept needing more technicians so we realized we needed to have a larger space. We launched the service store on Miners Avenue earlier this year. That gave us the capacity to begin serving clients who haven’t purchased a car from us and to apply the same philosophy of selling cars to servicing vehicles.”

Kalthoff says the goal of Auto Connection’s service store is to “give people a better option than going to the big franchised dealership service centres. Without franchise fees and a fancy building, we can charge significantly less and we don’t have to up-sell our customers to services they don’t need.”

One way that Auto Connection can deliver great savings is by having non-commissioned technicians and service advisors. “They get paid the same regardless of whether they find your car doesn’t need any work or if they find your car needs everything. We feel that’s a really honest way to service people’s vehicles.

We’re not the only service provider in town that does this but it is much more rare than customers realize. Most customers have no idea that the technicians and service advisors at many shops, especially big dealerships, are on a form of commission and need to upsell the customer to make a decent income.

That creates a conflict of interest that is not in favour of the customer.”

Also unique to Auto Connection is its VIP Benefits program. “It’s an unprecedented value in the industry and our customers absolutely love it,” says Kalthoff.

The program costs $49 a year but provides immediate savings, including a 30 per cent discount on already very competitive shop rates. In addition, VIP members receive 10 per cent off auto parts, 25 per cent off tires, 20 per cent off auto detailing, and 25 per cent off windshield replacements.

The program also includes up to five free tire repairs and five free windshield chip

repairs every year, as well as discounts on extended warranty deductibles. “With those savings, it doesn’t take long to save that annual fee,” Kalthoff says. “The annual fee is very low and it covers all of the vehicles in your household for the year.

“Even if you get one windshield chip in a year, you’ve saved your annual fee. If you have more major work, the savings can be tremendous. And, if you buy a car from us, you get the VIP program for free, which is a real advantage in the used-car industry.”

To learn more about the unique VIP Benefits program, visit the Auto Connection website. You can also become a VIP member online, by purchasing your benefits membership at www.saskatoonauto.ca/shop.

Your card will soon arrive in the mail.

Kalthoff adds that Auto Connection “is an SGI-accredited, full-service shop that does everything from oil changes to engine and transmission rebuilds. We can service almost every element of the car so clients can have it all done here, from the simple to the complicated. Our technicians are welltrained, award-winning, and have worked at the big dealerships. They know their stuff.”

Auto Connection’s sales dealership is located at 824B 43rd Street, just behind the Circle Drive Staples. It’s open Monday to Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

The Auto Connection Auto Care Service Centre, open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., is located at 2909 Miners Avenue. For more information, call 306-373-8800 or visit saskatoonauto.ca.

THIS STORYWAS CREATED BYCONTENTWORKS,POSTMEDIA’S COMMERCIALCONTENTDIVISION ON BEHALFOFAuTO CONNECTION. FALL/WINTER 2018

23

ASK AN EXPERT

ANDREW & JILAIRE WAGNER MAiSoN DESiGN+BUiLD

#30-214 Joseph Okemasis Drive • 306.242.3653 build@maisondesignbuild.ca | www.maisondesignbuild.ca

Home Builder We are planning a major construction project but are nervous about adding stress to our already busy lives. How can we avoid a stressful build?

A major home improvement, repair or renovation will take time from your busy life, but it doesn’t need to be stressful or overwhelming. From our experience the following points are very important when trying to make the build as stress-free as possible: Choose a contractor that you trust, not only for their reputation but also for their business process. Finding someone that aligns with your vision for the project, and has a process that helps identify critical milestones to help you stay on budget and on schedule is probably the most important thing. Interview them about when your feedback is needed, how they manage unexpected delays or problems, and how they handle change orders. Read reviews and testimonials and assess how their people treat you. Choose to work with a company that exemplifies trustworthiness and integrity from the very beginning. It should be clear from their process, their words and the people they hire, that you are in good hands.

Have a realistic budget in mind and share that budget with your contractor.

Knowing where you need the project to end up is critical before you even get started. Being clear about your budget will help your contractor to inform you about whether the scope of the build or renovation you are doing is realistic given that budget. It will also help to avoid costly design work for items that didn’t align with the budget to begin with. Why go through the architectural and engineering analysis to add on a second floor, only to find out you can’t fund it?

Take the time required to work through as many details as possible before starting construction. Often there is such an urgency to ‘get started’. Trust us, we understand, that’s really the most exciting part. But when clients take the time to deal with all selections and details upfront, they gain cost certainty and fewer change orders; the ability to fully weigh out pros and cons of their decisions which reduces second guessing during construction; and the ability to do things at their own pace, not the pace of the project.

Photo: d & m images

WE BUILD BEAUTIFUL Maison Design+Build is a boutique builder specializing in design-driven homes. We are passionate about timeless design and dedicated to precision quality construction. maisondesignbuild.ca | 306.242.3653 |

24

LIVING SPACES

Simple steps to designing a room

A

re you tired of a dated room or are you moving into a new home? Give any space a designer-style makeover with these easy-to-follow tips.

Decide the purpose and layout. Think about what you’ll be using the space for, because even a room with an obvious function like the living room can be used in different ways that will affect the design. For example, will you be using it to entertain guests on weekends, or as a cozy spot to unwind every day after work? Then get out your measuring tape and play with layouts.

Create an inspiration board. Get your creative juices flowing and learn about what’s trending by checking out design magazines, blogs and other sources of ideas. Gather your thoughts together on a Pinterest board, or go old school and cut out clippings and arrange in a scrapbook.

Find the focal point. Every room needs a focus that captures the eye and sets the tone for

Select a focal point that will set the tone for colour and décor in your room.

Photo: news canada

colour and décor in the space. Whether it’s that special artwork you purchased on a treasured vacation or the print on your favourite piece of furniture, use this item to guide and inspire you. Make the space look cohesive by creating your colour palette and style around the item, choosing a neutral base and drawing one or two accent colours from it.

Work the windows. Window treatments are an important part of a room that make the space look truly finished. Doing more than making your home beautiful, customdesigned coverings from Hunter Douglas let

you control and harness natural light, lower your bills with energy-saving insulation and even enjoy convenient smart-home automation of your shades 24/7.

Decorate with personality. Once you have the essentials covered, be sure to make your room look and feel homey and inviting with personal touches. An eclectic mix of photographs, artwork, accessories and fabrics will help create a warm, welcoming space that feels very you. To achieve a curated look, keep decorative elements in the colour palette of your focal choice. (News Canada)

@KitchenandBathSaskatoon @kbcsaskatoon

FALL/WINTER 2018

25

Your condo,

your way

By JEANNiE ARMSTRoNG

W

hy purchase a cookie-cutter condominium when you can enjoy a residence that has been customized to suit your personal preferences and lifestyle?

Boychuk Homes invites condo buyers to have it their way at Rosewood Gardens, the builder’s newest bungalow-style townhome condominium development, located on Olson Lane West.

Rosewood Gardens features 28 bungalowstyle semi-attached units, with a choice of two-bedroom or one-bedroom-plus-den floor plans. On average, each unit is 1,200 square feet. All units have main floor laundry and attached double garages.

in the show home kitchen, Boychuk Homes selected Fusion Shaker-style cabinetry in ‘Meringue’ with a contrasting blue-grey island from Superior Cabinets. The quartz countertop is from CalSask Granite.

The project builds on the success of Boychuk Home’s award-winning Rosewood Estates multi-family development, named Best Townhome (under 50 units) at this year’s Bridges Awards, presented by the Saskatoon & Region Home Builders’ Association.

“It’s basically a custom home within a condo community,” says Kelly Schroeder, marketing and design manager with Boychuk Homes.

“We let the customers choose the fixtures and finishes they want, providing them with allowances they can take to our suppliers, including Superior Cabinets and Western Carpet. We have a standard spec and price point and people can upgrade from there.”

Even the floor plan of a unit can be changed, within the lot specifications. “We’ve sold two units where the homeowners customized

their units and made them bigger. One buyer decided to make their garage larger,” says Schroeder.

Even the master ensuite can be tailored to the homeowners’ personal preference. “We can do showers and/or tubs in each of the ensuites. Buyers can choose from custom tile or one-piece-fibreglass units. It’s all based on their own preference.”

The show home, located at #2 – 315 Olson Lane West, will inspire potential buyers’ selection of colours, fixtures and finishes.

Offering a look of contemporary elegance, Boychuk has selected a palette of crisp grey and white neutral tones, with upscale LED lighting fixtures and beautifully crafted trims.

The stylish kitchen is attired in two-tone Fusion Shaker-style cabinetry, complemented

owners can opt for either a tub/shower combination or a walk-in shower in their ensuite bathrooms.

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LIVING SPACES

Rosewood Gardens features 28 bungalowstyle semi-attached townhomes, with a choice of two-bedroom or one-bedroomplus-den floor plans.

by sleek quartz countertops from CalSask Granite. “We went with a light Meringue colour for the cabinets. The island is in a contrasting blue-grey shade called Blue Bridgewater,” says Schroeder.

Each unit at Rosewood Gardens features a spacious master suite with a customizable ensuite and walk-in closet. In the show home, the second main floor bedroom has been staged as a home office.

The foyer leads to the home’s second full bathroom and a main floor laundry room with built-in cabinetry.

The show home’s lower level has been fully developed, with a huge family room, two additional bedrooms, another full bathroom and a spacious storage/utility room. Having Boychuk complete the lower level is an option that is proving popular with many home buyers who don’t have the time or skills to do the work themselves, says Schroeder.

Two of the three units that have been finished for immediate occupancy have completed basement developments, adds Schroeder. “There are people who don’t want to wait or aren’t interested in customizing their residences. We have several units that are move-in ready.”

A lot of the interest in Rosewood Gardens has come from people who toured Boychuk’s previous Rosewood Estates project.

Schroeder said there were a number of people interested in the ENERGY STAR-rated Rosewood Estates bungalow homes but felt the size and pricing of the units were beyond their budget.

“With Rosewood Gardens, we scaled the units down in size, to make it a little more affordable. Instead of the 1,400 to 1,500 square foot floor plans, we’ve created open concept layouts that average about 1,200 square feet.

We also went with traditional roofing shingles instead of the more costly recycled rubber singles used at our previous project.” Units

Each bungalow townhome at Rosewood Gardens averages 1,200 square feet, with a versatile open floor plan. PhoTos by JeFF lyons

at Rosewood Gardens are priced starting at $450,000.

Rosewood Gardens has been built to EnerGuide standards, which means residents will be able to realize savings from the installation of high efficiency furnaces, water heaters, air-to-air exchangers, low-flow toilets, water-conserving showerheads, LED lighting and Energy Star appliances.

While the floor plans at Rosewood Gardens are a bit smaller, Boychuk has also answered potential buyers’ demands for longer attached garages and 24-foot deep concrete driveways.

“That was the most common feedback we received,” says Schroeder.

Each residence at Rosewood Gardens will be completely landscaped, including

maintenance-free decks, sod, trees and underground sprinklers. Perimeter fencing and a security gate offer an enhanced level of security.

Living in a gated complex particularly appeals to single homeowners and people who travel frequently, says Schroeder. “We have a lot of snowbirds and lake people who bought at Rosewood Estates because of that added security.”

The show home at Rosewood Gardens is open for viewing Monday through Thursday, from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. To view by appointment, contact Boychuk sales representative Bill Yano at (306) 850-9745.

Learn more at www.boychukhomes.com.

FALL/WINTER 2018

27

ASK AN EXPERT

Charlene Schumacher Fresco interiors Design Group

NEW ADDRESS: 308 - 701 Broadway Avenue 306.933-3200 Charlene@frescointeriors.ca | www.frescointeriors.ca

Style & Decor Three ways to turn up the wow factor I’m looking for wow factor! We’ve purchased a newto-us home that needs updating. It has beautiful high ceilings but the oak package throughout makes it looks frumpy! What design elements would you suggest to incorporate into our new renovation?

Winner of the 2018 & 2017 RENoVATioN oF THE yEAR – SRHBA Bridges Award – Whole Home Winner of the 2018 & 2017 CoNSUMER CHoiCE AWARD – Best interior Design Firm – Saskatoon

Defining Ceiling Applications When you walk into a home, one of the first defining design elements to capture your eye is a sculptural ceiling treatment. Why? Because it’s so unexpected!

Think about how your eye will be drawn from floor to ceiling with a coffered or beam ceiling. Your entry will instantly exude drama with a centralized layered tray ceiling. Your main living space will have instant sophistication with a tailored coffered ceiling, highlighting your floor-toceiling fireplace. Select lighting with details that diffuse interesting shadows and you have a gorgeous “knock your socks off ” focal point!

Design tip: Have your designer apply your floor plan to a CAD drawing to determine the exact positioning of the ceiling application. This will ensure the beams end up exactly where you want them!

Scandinavian Accents If your budget allows, consider replacing your main cabinetry in the kitchen and powder room with warm white streamlined classic cabinets, creating a focal point with wood accents in the range hood and island. A live edge or natural wood element will inject a personalized warm glow. If your hardwood is still in good shape consider having it refinished with a soft undertone of gray. This will provide you with a beautiful timeless backdrop.

Fresh, Light & Bright!

Apply light colour tones to the walls for a fresh airy feel. To turn up the drama, select a high contrast pop colour or textural wallpaper in specific areas. A favourite colour palette today features soft whites, with shades of warm gray (Sherwin Williams Requisite), intermixed with a deep mossy green (Pantone 18-0317), and a hardwood with SW Gautlet gray. It’s a classic mix!

Design Tip: Select all of your flooring, cabinets and countertop finishes before defining the wall colour palette. The flooring and cabinetry collections will have their own undertones. Depending on the background, grays can read blue, purple or green. For example, the “yellow” tones of a natural golden oak hardwood will look even more yellow when placed against a wall colour with contrasting gray/purple undertones.

Above all, planning is key to a great renovation! Well-designed rooms are created in layers. Flooring, textiles, accessories and wall applications are intermixed to reveal smooth and textural surfaces, both matte and sheen, with undertones that flow together perfectly! Let the fun begin!

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LIVING SPACES

Is it time for new windows?

W

indows help regulate the temperature in a home, let in natural light and keep insects, weather and outdoor elements outside where they belong. The right windows also can add value to a property by providing aesthetic appeal and increasing curb appeal.

Although homeowners can typically get many years out of their homes’ windows, ultimately windows will need to be replaced.

Homes that are more than 20 years old and still have their original windows could be due for an upgrade. Aluminum- or wood-framed windows also may be ripe for changing. Here are some signs that it’s time to replace windows, courtesy of Good Housekeeping, CentraŽ and the real estate website Redfin. • Drafty feel in the home: Window frames can begin to shrink as they age, allowing air to flow from the outdoors in and vice versa.

Although homeowners can typically get many years out of their homes’ windows, ultimately windows will need to be replaced. Homes that are more than 20 years old and still have their original windows could be due for an upgrade. PhoTo: mns

Homeowners may notice drafts when standing near windows or hear whistling on notably windy days. • Rising energy bills: If energy bills are inexplicably on the rise, then old windows could be to blame. Aging, drafty windows can make it necessary to run HVAC systems more often and at higher or lower temperatures in order to keep homes comfortable. • Windows are difficult to open or close: Homeowners may get used to the quirks of their windows, but those that are difficult to open or close may require replacement. In

addition, if windows need to be propped open, it’s time to replace them. • Water infiltration: Warping or decaying window frames can make it easy for rain or snow to get into the home. Wood frames are particularly prone to moisture decay. If frames are warping or allowing water into the home, it’s time for an upgrade. • Condensation on windows: Fog or condensation build-up on windows can occur if the seal between panes is broken. In this instance, replacement windows are necessary.

(MNS)

Picture yourself as a homeowner

LEARN MORE

STARTING AT

$2 ,900

PROUD TO BUILD:

306.500.1094 FALL/WINTER 2018

29

TREND REPORT:

The return of the

sectional

By ELiZABETH iRELAND

L

ooking for a way to instantly transform a room in your home?

Wondering about the latest trends in home furnishings, colours and fabrics?

Kristy Sørensen is owner and manager at Saskatoon’s Furniture World and is an eye witness to what’s trending in the province.

Celebrating 28 years in business, Furniture World is a family-owned and operated store that offers 37,000 square feet of furniture for homeowners to choose from.

Sørensen’s brother Jeff manages Furniture World’s sister store Sorensen’s Fine Furniture nearby. The second store opened in 2014 and features a huge La-Z-Boy Comfort Studio.

What new trends can style-conscious homeowners look for in 2018 and moving into 2019? “Mixed metals are big such as luxe gold, rose gold or bronze finishes. We

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LIVING SPACES

still see pewter and silver finishes as well.

I’ve also noticed more black metals recently,” says Sørensen.

After several seasons of neutrals everywhere, bored homeowners might be wondering if colour is ever coming back.

“Warm greys are still strong and definitely remain the neutral colour of choice, that could be wall paint or furniture. What’s new is utilizing a hit of colour – the most popular colours right now are blue, teal and blush pink. Our clients are generally on trend but not trendy, so a hit of colour is an ideal way to take a room to the next level.”

How can adding just one or two new pieces refresh and update a room? Sørensen suggests switching out pillows, artwork or an area rug to incorporate that punch of colour. Lamps are also a terrific way to update a room.

While nobody questions the durability of

With the majority of new homes favouring open concept floor plans, sectionals have regained their popularity.

leather furniture, some may crave coziness and wonder if upholstered furniture is making a comeback in the province. “Our clients want the longevity of a better-quality piece of furniture. We sell approximately 50 per cent leather furniture and 50 per cent fabric upholstery, whether that fabric is with or without a texture. Overall, the quality of fabrics has really increased, and stain repellents are now often built right into the fabric itself.”

The popularity of upholstery is not limited to living areas. Upholstered beds remain the bedroom style of choice (instead of the matchy six-piece bedroom sets of the past).

Sørensen notes that because of the predominance of large walk-in closets in new and renovated homes, bedroom furniture can be kept to a minimum with just one statement dresser and night tables.

In terms of living spaces, sectionals have come back in style over the past few years.

Sectionals maximize the seating available in a large TV room or a great room and can be built specifically to fit the space. The building trend towards great rooms (one big space combining the features of living,

family and dining rooms) with an adjacent kitchen continues to increase.

One of the most sought-after lines at Furniture World is IMG Norway. With clean lines and a timeless style, IMG Norway has become well-known for their comfortable Relaxer chairs. “Clients come into the store and describe a recliner chair they saw at a friend’s house and loved. I immediately know that it’s an IMG Norway.”

What questions should clients ask before selecting home furnishings? Where the furniture is made and where it is designed are always good to know. And remember that it’s not just what you see on the showroom floor that’s available; customization is often an option as well.

One example at Furniture World is the Quebec-based company Canadel which designs and manufactures dining tables, chairs and bar stools. Canadel is also family-owned and its products are hand-

Canadel’s Downtown collection walks a fine line between modern and contemporary.

assembled and hand-finished in North America. Canadel has customizable styles ranging from ultra modern, formal and updated farmhouse to modern country chic.

Another global trend is botanical, tropical-style patterns, often seen as a pillow fabric or wallpaper. There is the option to incorporate the calming influence of real greenery into a room.

Trendsetters can take an educated guess that the lush jewel tones and airy interiors featured in the hit summer movie “Crazy

Rich Asians” will also have an impact on 2019 interior design trends.

Furniture World offers free in-home consultation services. Clients range from residents of newer homes in Evergreen, Rosewood and Stonebridge to revamped homes in established neighbourhoods like Silverspring.

Furniture World is located at 831 Second Avenue North and Sorensen’s Fine Furniture is located at 715 First Avenue North in Saskatoon.

Elegant dining can also be comfortable, as seen in this classic collection

by Canadel.

offering classic styling and clean lines, IMG Norway’s recliner chair is one of the most sought-after pieces at Furniture World and Sorensen’s Fine Furniture.

PhoTos coUrTesy oF FUrniTUre world FALL/WINTER 2018

31

IN THE KITCHEN

&

Jody Taylor Danielle Spence

with chefs

OF CITY PERKS

By JENNiFER JACoBy-SMiTH

F

or anyone who lives in the City Park neighbourhood of Saskatoon, City Perks is a mecca. Actually, it might be a destination coffee shop and café for just about everyone in the city.

Located at the corner of 7th Avenue North and Princess Street, this charming shop combines excellent caffeinated beverages and delicious food in quaint surroundings.

It feels like home, right down to the comfy couches and London Fog delivered with a friendly smile.

It’s a place where people come to visit for hours over steaming cups, simple food made from fresh local ingredients, and indulgent desserts. Co-owner Coralee Abbott and her team graciously shares a classic lunch with soup, sandwich, and a London Fog torte.

Chef Jody Taylor started working in the kitchen in January, but he’s already found a niche. The slower pace of a coffee shop is just the right recipe as far as Taylor is concerned.

“It’s nice to come to a place that is

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LIVING SPACES

PhoTos by JeFF lyons

significantly less hectic than other restaurants that I’ve worked in. We have a smaller menu that allows us to pay a lot more attention to the details and the stuff that we’re making,” he says. “A little bit more love can be put into it at that pace.”

Taylor admits he started working in the cooking business because his mother worked in it. He grew up in Saskatoon and attended Mount Royal Collegiate. He stumbled into cooking by following his mother’s footsteps.

“It was very familiar and just kind of a family thing. And I found out that I love cooking. I love making people happy when they get their food,” says Taylor.

City Perks’ menu is based on seasonal ingredients; many they find through local producers and farmers markets.

“A lot of our menu is based on whatever we can get fresh for that specific week. We stop at the grocery store multiple times per week to try and keep everything as fresh as we can,” Taylor notes.

Taylor also says while he loves to cook just about anything, soups and sandwiches are “always entertaining”, making soup especially.

When it comes to preparing soup for your family, Taylor says it’s difficult to offer tips, because it can be a very personal thing to make. Plus soup is one of those kitchen creations that doesn’t depend on exact measurements or methods.

“It’s something that you can take a lot of time and put a lot of yourself into.

Recipes are well and good, but you have to trust yourself and trust your taste,” says Taylor. With one final caveat, “Know your audience.” Use flavours and ingredients your family loves for best results.

Baker Danielle Spence serves up a City Perks favourite: a London Fog torte. The recipe is a café classic, created by the team at City Perks by combining several recipes into one. The delicious cake is served with caramel topping, which makes for a dramatic-looking dessert.

3 large yellow onions, fine diced 1 whole heart of celery, fine diced 2.25 kg carrots, rough chop 8 litres vegetable stock ½ cup fresh ginger ½ cup wild flower honey salt and pepper to taste

RECIPES

HONEY CARROT SOUP

Roast carrots with peeled and chopped ginger, tossed in olive oil and honey. Sauté onions and celery until soft, add carrots and ginger. Add vegetable stock and puree until smooth. Season to taste.

ROASTED CHICKEN SANDWICH

Assembling a sandwich is part art and part personal preference. A new addition to the menu at City Perks, use this recipe as inspiration for your own tasty creation.

6 oz. oven roasted pulled chicken (from Pineview Farms) 2 oz. house-made balsamic mission fig jam 4 oz. creamy brie cheese Fresh Gala apple slices Assemble on buttered Earthbound bakery mixed seed sourdough. Grill in Panini press until browned and crisp.

FALL/WINTER 2018

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LONDON FOG TORTE Cake:

2 ½ cups flour 1 cup cocoa 2 ½ tsp. baking powder ¾ tsp. baking soda 1 tsp. salt 2 cups sugar 2 eggs 1 egg yolk 2 tsp. vanilla ½ tsp. almond extract ½ cup, 2 tbsp. canola oil 1 ½ cups milk 1 cup coffee Grease three 8-inch pans. Sift flour, cocoa,

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LIVING SPACES

baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add eggs, egg yolk, vanilla, and almond extract.

Scrape down bowl. With mixer on low, add flour and milk (alternating the two), starting and ending with flour. Scrape bowl. Add coffee with mixer on low, mixing no more than 30 seconds. Evenly distribute batter and bake for 20 to 25 minutes.

Earl Grey Buttercream:

2 cups butter ¼ cup loose Earl Grey tea leaves ½ cup + 2 Tbsp. egg whites ¼ cup sugar ½ vanilla bean Place 1 cup butter in pot with tea. Heat over medium heat until melted. Turn down to low

and simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let tea steep for 5 minutes more. Strain and let cool until soft, 20 to 30 minutes.

Place egg whites and sugar in bowl of stand mixer on top of a saucepan to create double boiler whisk egg-sugar until hot to touch or 155-160 degrees F. Carefully put bowl onto mixer and whisk on high for 8 to 10 minutes or until medium stiff peaks.

Outside of bowl should be room temperature.

Using paddle attachment on low slowly add the tea infused butter and 1 cup butter a few tablespoons at a time until incorporated. Turn to medium high and beat until smooth and silky, 3 to 5 minutes.

The cake should be assembled as a three-layer cake. Finish with a drizzle of caramel topping and garnish with berries.

JACQUELINE CHILLIAK CENTURy 21 FUSioN

(306) 222-7211 jacquelinechilliak@gmail.com | www.saskatoonfinehomes.com

Real Estate How can preventative maintenance protect my home investment?

Regular upkeep can help extend the life of your home’s components and save you thousands of dollars over time. The following preventative measures are relatively inexpensive and usually only need to be addressed once or twice a year. Many of them are simple enough that you may want to do them yourself, but a handyman is only a phone call away if you need some help.

Roof: Fall and spring are good times to conduct routine maintenance on the roof, including the replacement of missing or damaged shingles or tiles. Check for signs of blistering or damage that can lead to leaks.

Clear all debris from the roof and gutters, especially the valleys where it can accumulate and cause water to puddle.

Siding: Clean your home’s exterior with a garden hose sprayer and mild detergent or a power washer after winter passes. Tighten loose trim and add caulking to areas with cracks to keep the elements from intruding and causing further damage to the structure.

BUYING OR SELLING?

Decks: Wash and treat wood with paint or a weatherproofing product to prevent cracking and get it in prime condition for spring and summer outdoor entertaining.

Irrigation: Check sprinkler systems thoroughly before the summer approaches to spot and fix leaks and make sure water is not spraying against the home’s foundation or siding.

Basement: Watch for signs of moisture intrusion and find the source of any leaks that can lead to serious mold or fungus problems if left unaddressed.

Kitchen/Baths: Replace damaged caulking around tubs, showers, sinks and toilets to avoid water-related damage to the walls, floors and cabinets.

HVAC: Change the filter in your air return as often as recommended by the manufacturer. Some types need to be replaced every one to three months, while others last six months or longer.

Dryer: Remove accumulated lint from the exhaust duct at the back of the dryer, and use a long-handled brush to clear the vent that leads outside. Blockages not only impact performance, they can also be fire hazards.

Refrigerator: To keep your refrigerator working well, clean dirt and lint from its condenser coils once or twice a year. Access the coils on the back of the unit or behind the front grill, and use a vacuum attachment or coil brush to clear the debris. Failing to remove the build-up can stress the condenser and cause expensive, premature damage to the unit.

Buy or Sell with me* and receive 1000 AIR MILES®

Call JACQUIE at 306.222-7211 to schedule your

FREE

MARKET EVALUATION*

?

Not intended to solicit properties currently listed for sale or buyers under contract. *Some conditions apply.

Independently Owned and Operated. ® ™ Trademarks owned by Century 21 Real Estate LLC used under license or authorized sub-license. © 2018 Century 21 Canada Limited Partnership, CENTURY 21 Fusion. ®™ Trademarks of AM Royalties Limited Partnership used under license by LoyaltyOne and Century 21 Fusion Realty Inc. * Some conditions may apply with the issuing of AIR MILES® Reward Miles -- please contact Jacqueline Chilliak - REALTOR® for more information on this rewards program.

FALL/WINTER 2018

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Extraordinary Living Begins Here...

WHAT’S YOUR

APPETITE FOR LIVING? CHOICE LIVING. The Village at Stonebridge truly is like no place else. The choices to enjoy food and entertainment on your terms are bountiful. Our residents dine anytime they choose from 11am to 8pm daily. Happiness is when family and friends can stop for a visit and a meal anytime.

The many choices include:

Private Dining Room Village Bistro Licensed Patio Deck A la Carte Menu 3-course Dinner Service In-Suite Room Service Happy Hour is anytime, every day, when you have the CHOICES we offer. Visit us today and learn how an APPETITE FOR LIVING defines “Extraordinary Living”.

DAILY TOURS AVAILABLE The Village at Stonebridge is Saskatoon’s newest, most innovative retirement community. The Village is part of LutherCare’s ‘Continuum of Living’ model. A fully accredited facility, The Village offers 159 suites for independent seniors in a beautiful, warm, and spacious environment. Suites range from 700 – 1,216 square feet; featuring 9-foot ceilings, a full kitchen, in-suite laundry plus flexible dining options.

110-250 Hunter Rd, Saskatoon

Call 306-664-0501 EXT. 221 to tour our suites

Virtual tours at www.luthercarevillage.com