You're Home Summer 2017

Summer 2017

Jimmy Carter Habitat project comes to Regina

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contents 30 36

24

16

features

10

MEET THE BUILDER OF THE YEAR: Harmony Builders honoured for second consecutive year

16

Jimmy Carter project comes to Regina

18 RECONNECTING

Emerald Park Homes celebrates 25 years in business 20

THE MORE YOU KNOW GreenWave Innovations’ technologies save energy dollars

26

Rejuvenate your home with cork

30 WELCOMING

Anagram Solar leads the way in solar energy systems 34

Breathe easier

8 | You’re Home Summer 2017

36

DIGGING IN Tips for landscaping that new yard

40

More to Wheatland than just fireplaces

42

How to plan a successful renovation

building & design 14

SHOW HOME SPOTLIGHT Living large in Spruce Creek Estates

32

Composite decking can be a smart choice

38

FUTURE HOME Home automation has never been easier

message from the EDITOR 10

42

Welcome to the latest edition of You’re Home Magazine, the official magazine of the Regina & Region Home Builders’ Association. In this edition of You’re Home, meet the Regina home builder who won the Builder of the Year Master Award for a second consecutive year. We also take a look at innovative energy-saving products and services, from an advanced energy and asset management system to a cork product designed to rejuvenate your home’s exterior while providing a thermal barrier. Sunny days see homeowners busy sprucing up their yards. Check out You’re Home for great ideas on landscaping and outdoor living. It’s all waiting, inside You’re Home!

Email: jarmstrong@postmedia.com

Contributors EDITOR JEANNIE ARMSTRONG

ART DIRECTOR LESLEY COCKBURN

PHOTOGRAPHY SHAWN FULTON www.shawnfultonphotography.com

ask an expert 22

ASK AN EXPERT… About home design

24 OUTDOOR LIVING WITH CARSON ARTHUR How much should you invest into your home’s landscaping?

28

ASK AN EXPERT… About hiring a safe contractor

44

ASK AN EXPERT… About third party new home warranty

46

RRHBA MEMBERSHIP LIST

48

CLOSING REMARKS

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

summer 2017

JEANNIE ARMSTRONG CARSON ARTHUR TOM EREMONDI JONATHAN HAMELIN JENNIFER JACOBY-SMITH HILARY KLASSEN ASHLEIGH MATTERN STU NIEBERGALL JOANNE PAULSON PAT REDIGER MICHELE TYNDALL JULIE FOLK WOLDU

PUBLISHER LEADER-POST

You’re Home Summer 2017 | 9

Meet the

Builder of the Year: Harmony Builders honoured for second consecutive year

by Julie Folk Woldu

The Harmony Builders Ltd. office was bustling when I arrived. Two designers were inspecting tile in the late afternoon light streaming through the front window, others were discussing the closing of a recent sale, and the rest of the office was preparing for a small party with cake and cupcakes to celebrate two staff birthdays.

As I made myself comfortable on the plush white couch in Katrina Rogina’s office, Joey the Boston Terrier came in to greet me. Katrina’s husband, Matt, offered me ice cream before we began the interview.

It may be a business, but Harmony Builders has a feeling of family that clients are drawn to.

“We’re a local family business and that’s huge,” said Katrina. “We genuinely care, and you can’t fake that. We pride ourselves on making building a new home a fun time for clients. That’s why we called it Harmony – we wanted building a new home to be a stressfree experience.”

Katrina and Matt began Harmony Builders eight years ago with a goal of building 10 | You’re Home Summer 2017

Photo: Nicole Gerhardt/ngphoto.ca

Harmony Builders’ team of 22 employees is a tight-knit group, dedicated to offering clients a stress-free experience.

beautiful homes in Regina with customer service as their number one priority. They have more than achieved this goal, as they were recently named the Home Builder of the Year for a second consecutive year at the Regina & Region Home Builders’ Association (RRHBA) 2016 Master Awards.

“I was surprised – but I’m surprised every year,” said Katrina. “My motto is, ‘Expect nothing, appreciate everything.’”

The Roginas have kept the same core values over the past eight years as their company has grown. They now build between 35 and 40 homes a year. Their 22 employees make up the close team that serves Harmony clients.

“We have the most amazing team,” said Katrina. “We look for smart people, with common sense and personality. We are real and down to earth.”

Harmony also holds high standards for the sub-trades they hire, and the quality of building products that go into each home. Nearly all of the homes they build are customized – even production homes typically become custom.

“We never build the same house,” said Matt. “We’ve built the same floor plan, but the exterior is changed, the roofline is changed, things are moved around inside. We allow our clients to make it their own.”

To be considered a finalist for the Home Builder of the Year award, members of the RRHBA must apply to a minimum of four Master Award categories. Harmony won awards for Best Production Home between

1,500 and 2,199 square feet, Best Show Home Home between 1,500 and 2,199 square feet for their Sagebrush show home in Fairways West, which was extremely popular, and Best Show Home Over 2,200 square feet. They also received the award for Environmental Leadership (1 – 19 homes) due to the ecofriendly, low-VOC, renewable products they use in their homes to create a healthier environment for their clients.

Harmony Builders is also very proud to be a Regina’s HOLMES Approved Homes Partner Builder. The Mike Holmes-led team approached them last year to be part of the program. Every home Harmony builds is

Nearly all of the homes Harmony Builders constructs are customized – even production homes typically become custom.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF HARMONY BUILDERS LTD

Harmony Builders takes pride in providing all clients with the same attentive service, whether the build is worth $400,000 or $4 million.

Harmony Builders won the Master Award for Best Show Home (1,500 - 2,199 square feet) for their outstanding model home at 7802 Sagebrush in Fairways West.

inspected three times during the course of the build by a Holmes-appointed inspection team and finally receives the Holmes stamp of approval.

While Katrina leads the sales team at Harmony, Matt leads the builds on-site. He is part of the construction of each home and takes pride in the custom components he builds for clients, including fireplaces, closets, and crown molding. Every client is treated the same, whether the build is worth $400,000 or

$4 million.

“We love everybody the same. We give them all the same amount of walk-throughs, the same amount of attention,” said Katrina.

“We’re a lifetime home builder. We build houses that families want to raise their kids in and live in for 25 years.”

The Roginas’ goals for 2017 are to continue to grow their business and to never compromise quality service and the experience for the clients.

You’re Home Summer 2017 | 11

Harmony Builders is proud to be a Regina’s HOLMES Approved Homes Partner Builder.

“Regina deserves to have nice houses and we want to continue building more houses in this city,” said Katrina. “With us, you are actually saving money in the long run. You don’t have to fix things, everything is done right the first time, and you get a house that’s built properly. ‘Custom’ sounds expensive, but it’s actually not if you do the math.”

Harmony Builders is also proud to continue to give back to the community. They volunteer at Souls Harbour every two months and donate to many events, including Lady in Red for SOFIA House and Moustache Bash for Prostate Cancer.

“At the end of the day, we just want our clients to be super happy,” said Katrina. “2016 was an awesome year. I felt like our business just got stronger, and we were really, really busy. I was very thankful.”

To learn more, visit www.harmonybuilders.ca.

12 | You’re Home Summer 2017

When building a home trust in the Certified Professional Home Builder Program Designation logo!

Find out more at www.reginahomebuilders.com

You’re Home  Summer 2017 | 13

show home

spotlight

L iving large

The D & S show home, located at 124 Spruce Creek Road in Spruce Creek Estates, is a handsome 1,632 square foot ranch-style walk-out bungalow. The no-maintenance exterior is finished in acrylic stucco with stacked stone accents.

in Spruce Creek Estates

by Jeannie Armstrong As new residential lots in the city continue to

shrink in size, with the goal of achieving higher-density neighbourhoods, those home buyers seeking more space are turning their attention to acreage developments located outside Regina.

Spruce Creek Estates is a master-planned community of acreage properties developed

by D & S Homes Ltd., located just five minutes east of Regina. Spruce Creek Estates features 200 lots, ranging in size from a half- to full-acre in size. The opportunity to live large and spread their wings has proven appealing to a growing number of home buyers, as over 40 per cent of the lots in the development’s first phase have already sold.

Dennis Slater, president of the family-owned residential construction and land development firm, says the large-scale lots can easily accom-

14 | You’re Home Summer 2017

modate the grandest designs. As a result, some of Regina’s most incredible new custom homes are being constructed at Spruce Creek.

The centrepiece of the Spruce Creek community is a sparkling, six-acre lake. “There are 28 lots around the lake. Every lot in Spruce Creek is a walk-out,” said Slater.

Celebrating its 40th year in business in 2017, D & S has extensive expertise in land development. Spruce Creek Estates is the fifth community in the Regina market that D & S has developed. The company has also developed numerous acreage communities and subdivisions in and around Saskatoon and Martensville. Their development portfolio includes the popular Greenbryre Estates community which surrounds the province’s only 12-hole golf course on the southeast edge of Saskatoon.

You can experience what life in Spruce Creek Estates will be like by touring the magnificent

D & S show home located at 124 Spruce Creek Road. The show home is a 1,632 square foot ranch-style walk-out bungalow, handsomely finished in acrylic stucco with stacked stone accents.

The executive style bungalow offers a spacious open-concept floor plan, distinguished by a unique vaulted ceiling in the great room.

A family-owned company, D & S Homes is celebrating 40 years in 2017. Photo: Jeff Lyons

Guests enter the home through a large foyer with sleek tile flooring. The bright and open area features large windows that capture the views of the surrounding countryside.

The home’s future residents will enjoy the convenience of direct entry from the huge triple car garage into a spacious combination mudroom-laundry area. A convenient walkthrough pantry extends from the mudroom into the kitchen.

The D & S team chose a pleasing transitional style for the show home, combining elements of traditional and contemporary décor. The rich maple hardwood flooring and railings, wide window casings and high profile baseboards are classic touches. Industrial-chic designer light fixtures are definitely on trend.

The kitchen is dressed in exquisitely crafted grey maple cabinets, topped by sleek white granite counters. “The home comes with a premium package of Samsung stainless steel appli-

The focal point in the great room is a linear gas fireplace, trimmed from floor-to-ceiling in stacked stone.

The show home’s chef-worthy kitchen features an elegant grey and white colour palette.

The finely crafted maple cabinets are topped with granite counters. Contemporary industrial-style light fixtures add a modern twist to this kitchen.

ances, including a built-in wall oven, range top and microwave oven,” says Slater.

The home’s main floor offers a huge master suite and a second bedroom which can also be used as office space.

The master suite exudes luxury, including a hotel-style ensuite with a heated tile floor, an oversized custom walk-in shower, soaker tub and an angled walk-in closet. The master suite has its own garden door, leading to a spacious glass-panelled deck.

The walk-out basement is open for custom development. As a bonus, D & S Homes has added under-slab heating for cozy comfort.

A visit to Spruce Creek Estates isn’t complete without taking time to explore the latest STARS

The spacious master suite offers captivating views of the surrounding countryside.

Lottery grand prize home, also constructed by D & S Homes, at 301 Spruce Creek Street. The 3,398 square foot two-storey walkout features four bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, a large master ensuite and a home office. The elegant home is the epitome of executive style, valued at $1.5 million.

D & S Homes has been a proud supplier of STARS Lottery grand prize homes in both Regina and Saskatoon since 2012. Slater says the life-saving organization is one his family supports whole-heartedly.

STARS’ trauma teams provide rapid emergency care for the critically ill and injured across the province. “STARS benefits all of Saskatchewan. They have saved so many lives

across our province. It’s an organization we’re proud to support,” says Slater.

The STARS Lottery grand prize home is open for viewing Monday through Thursday from 6 to 9 p.m.; weekends and holidays from 1 to 5 p.m.

The D & S show home at 124 Spruce Creek Road is open Monday through Thursday from 4 to 7 p.m.; weekends and holidays from 1 to 5 p.m.

Spruce Creek Estates is located just five minutes east of Regina. Due to the continuing construction on the Regina bypass, a temporary detour has been set up. Easy-to-follow signage leads the way.

To make the short drive from Regina to Spruce Creek Estates, head out on Trans Canada Highway 1 East and turn left when you see the head office of Redhead Equipment. For more details, visit www.dshomes.ca.

You’re Home Summer 2017 | 15

Jimmy Carter project comes to

Regina

Ten families will benefit from Habitat Regina build

Photo: Habitat for Humanity

Since 1984, former U.S. president Jimmy Carter and his wife Rosalyn have helped build and improve homes in 14 countries.

by Joanne Paulson This is such a big year for Canada, even a for-

mer U.S. president and first lady are getting involved.

In our 150th year as a nation, Jimmy and Rosalyn Carter are lending their considerable support to Habitat for Humanity Canada. Affiliates across the country, including Habitat for Humanity Regina, will participate in building 150 homes in honour of our milestone birthday by the end of the year.

It’s the 34th Carter Work Project, which works annually to build homes around the world for low-income people who need appropriate and decent shelter. Since 1984, the couple has travelled the world to build and improve 16 | You’re Home Summer 2017

homes with 100,000 volunteers in 14 countries.

“It is an honour to be a part of the Carter Work Project. We at Habitat Regina are grateful for the support of this project and the many volunteers whose commitment to Habitat’s mission has helped us empower local families through affordable home ownership,” said Kelly Holmes-Binns, CEO, Habitat for Humanity Regina.

“These are homes that provide families with the strength, stability and independence they need to build a better life.”

Habitat Manitoba and Habitat Edmonton are leading the two largest builds, with 25 and 75 homes respectively. The Carters will personally visit Winnipeg and Edmonton between

July 9 and 14, the official build week.

Of the remaining 50 homes, Regina’s Habitat will add 10 new homes through the Carter Work Project this year, a considerable number for any community. Tracey Mazur, director of development, marketing and communications, said the Carters’ promotion of the project brings valuable awareness to Habitat for Humanity.

“We have a very large build going on in Regina; it’s actually the second-largest Habitat build in Canada,” said Mazur. “But we’re building it in phases, of course. Right now we’re working on 10 homes, and they will be part of this dedication for the Carter Work Project.

“They are very, very dedicated to Habitat for Humanity and they consider themselves as ambassadors for Habitat for Humanity International ‒ which is really Habitat U.S., but it’s everywhere in the world.”

Habitat for Humanity International, Canada and Global Village are the three banners the charitable organization works under.

“Global Village is the arm of Habitat for Humanity for all the international builds. They go to different countries, and anybody can join those groups. You fund-raise to be part of those groups and then they’ll do blitz builds in those communities.”

Habitat Regina’s 10 homes are part of the 62-townhome Haultain Crossing development in the community of Eastview.

“We currently have 14 townhouses on that site that 14 families are living in; they just moved in at the end of 2016,” said Mazur.

“That was phase one. Phase two is comprised

5TH AVENUE

EDGAR STREET

4TH AVENUE

ELLIOT STREET

of these 10 homes, and those families are set to move in in November of this year. Those units are under construction and fit very well with the Carter Work Project.

“We’ll be planning a celebration at our build site during that week of July 9 to 14 to draw attention to the Carter Work Project, to the work the Carters have done in their lifetime for Habitat for Humanity, and the importance of 150 homes within this project across Canada for low income families.”

Typically, Habitat builds single family homes designed specifically for their partner families depending on the size and specific needs of those families. Haultain Crossing is a bit different.

Habitat Regina was able to buy the former site of the Haultain School, and is optimizing the enormous lot with the townhome development. Therefore, each Haultain Crossing condo is a three-bedroom home, intended for families suited to that size.

Habitat for Humanity Regina is appreciative of the many volunteers who are supporting the Haultain Crossing project.

“Our families are coming from rental situations, and not always the most healthy rental situations, and typically paying upwards of 70 per cent of their gross family income toward putting a roof over their heads. That’s the reality of rent in today’s market,” said Mazur.

The application process is fairly long, and certain conditions must be met. Habitat Regina applicants must have lived in Canada for three years, and in Regina for two years; they must have a stable income of between $32,000 and $65,000; and they must be working.

“Then we set your mortgage payment at 25 per cent of your gross household income,” said Mazur. “It is a life-changing process for many of our families. Home ownership is something many of our families didn’t think they would attain.

“Because it’s home ownership they are now building equity. It’s a really amazing opportunity for home ownership. When you go from 70 per cent to put a roof over your head to 25 per cent, you can buy healthier food for your family, you can sign your kids up for community sports, which you simply couldn’t do before.”

For more information on the Carter Work Project, visit www.habitat.ca/carter-workproject.php. And for more information on Habitat Regina, go to www.habitatregina.ca.

Habitat for Humanity Regina’s Haultain Crossing townhome community is the second-largest Habitat build in Canada.

Fourteen families are currently in residence. Upon build-out, the development will provide homes for 62 families in Regina.

You’re Home Summer 2017 | 17

Member

reconnecting

Emerald Park Homes celebrates 25 years in business PHOTOS COURTESY OF EMERALD PARK HOMES

by Jonathan Hamelin As Emerald Park Homes Ltd. celebrates its 25th anniversary in 2017, the company has a lot to be proud of.

Over the past 25 years, Emerald Park Homes has grown to be a leading custom home builder in Regina and the surrounding area, offering a personalized home experience tailored to each customer’s preferences and lifestyle.

“We have successfully accomplished what we set out to do when we started the business: create a company that operates with strong core values of honesty, integrity and respect,” said Lorena Sawchyn, who co-owns the company with her husband Garry. “We would like to extend a big thank you to all our friends, family, employees, sub-trades and especially our clients for the continued support over the years.”

Sawchyn said the key to the company’s success over the years has been its approach to doing business. While Emerald Park Homes keeps up-to-date on new developments in home building by attending the International Builders’ Show every year, the company still focuses on good old-fashioned customer service.

18 | You’re Home Summer 2017

“Our personalized approach is what makes us stand out. My husband and I are the primary source of contact for clients and we work with professionals assisting clients the whole way, when it comes to choosing the floor plan layout, to the design, paint colours, flooring, etc.

“We have worked with most of the same sub-trades for the past 25 years. This consistency brings quality to every home. Every-

thing is custom-made for each home.”

Over the years, the company has gained the trust of customers. It has received the Saskatchewan New Home Warranty Program’s Gold and Diamond Customer Service awards.

Emerald Park Homes is the only home builder listed on TrustedRegina.com’s on-line directory of trusted businesses in the Regina area.

In 2014, trusted contractor and popular television celebrity renovator Mike Holmes welcomed Emerald Park Homes into his Holmes Approved Homes program as an official Partner Builder and the first home builder in Regina to join the exclusive program that promotes builders who build homes that are above and beyond the National Building Code. Each Holmes Approved Home is inspected by Mike’s inspectors to document and work with the builder to make sure everything is done right.

“I partnered with Emerald Park Homes because we share the same values when it comes Emerald Park Homes owners, Garry and Lorena Sawchyn, are proud to be an official Partner Builder of the Holmes Approved Homes program. Here, the Sawchyns enjoy a conversation with acclaimed renovation and building expert Mike Holmes.

Emerald Park Homes tailors every home they build to their customers’ preferences and lifestyles.

to building right, proper construction, and what that means for you and your family,” Holmes said when the partnership was announced.

Emerald Park Homes has been a member of the Regina & Region Home Builders’ Association (RRHBA) throughout the past 25 years. Sawchyn said the RRHBA has played a role in the company’s success over the years.

“The greatest benefit of being a member of the Regina & Region Home Builders’ Association is having them work with the Canadian Home Builders’ Association to keep us informed on changes to government policy,” Sawchyn said. “They also advocate on behalf of the builders and provide information so we can make good, sound decisions related to construction and real estate.”

As Emerald Park Homes reflects on the past 25 years, it also looks to the future. The company’s ever-expanding online presence provides customers with an opportunity to view photo albums of its completed projects on Houzz, Pinterest and Facebook. Sawchyn said its kitchen and bath albums are very popular when it comes to showing off customer-inspired decor.

“We’re hopeful that Emerald Park Homes will continue to flourish in the future as it has over the past 25 years,” Sawchyn said. “The company plans to continue to find new and innovative products that respond to the changing needs of our customers. For up to date information, we are on Twitter, Google Plus and LinkedIn showing off our suppliers’ newest, innovative products that are available for our customers’ new, custom designed homes.” Learn more at www.emeraldparkhomes.ca.

You’re Home Summer 2017 | 19

THE MORE YOU KNOW

GreenWave Innovations’ technologies save energy dollars

by Jonathan Hamelin Reducing power consumption and producing

green energy are big priorities for today’s home and business owners, and one Regina company that assists clients in this area is riding the wave.

GreenWave Innovations Inc. is an energy conservation company founded by husband and wife duo Dean and Terri Clark. In 2017, the company went through a rebranding process and added partners Mike Tate, Marco Ricci and Jared Lukomski. The company utilizes SiteSage’s energy and asset management system to help clients reduce their consumption and decrease their monthly bills.

“We install our technology on electrical panels, gas lines and water lines and receive minute-byminute updates about the amount of energy being consumed in the building,” Dean said. “We can let our clients know exactly where their dollars are being spent. Once we have all that information, we work with the client and help them make behavioural changes, policy changes and actual product and technology changes that make sense from a return on investment.

“For example, by changing the lightbulbs in a particular room to LED, we can tell you how long it’s going to take to recover your investment. We can determine if your fridge or freezer is a consumption hog that really should be replaced because they’re inefficient. We know that our clients will be able to make good, informed decisions if they have accurate consumption information in hand.”

As Dean notes, some clients aren’t only inter-

20 | You’re Home Summer 2017

ested in reducing their consumption, but producing their own green energy.

“We’re a big fan of producing green energy, whether it means solar or wind power,” he said.

“Our goal is to help customers shrink their carbon footprint down into what they actually need, not what they’re currently using.”

GreenWave Innovations is a SaskPower Efficiency Partner. As Dean notes, the work his company does very much aligns with SaskPower’s mandate.

“SaskPower is focused on getting their clients to conserve energy, knowing that it will delay the need to build new electrical generation facilities,” Dean said. “As we continue to hear in the news, there is a major focus on carbon pricing at all levels of government. Knowing the cost of energy is not getting cheaper, we realize there’s a need to help our clients conserve energy and reduce their carbon footprint.”

GreenWave Innovations focuses on the residential and commercial sectors and has gained traction when it comes to working with commercial businesses. Recently, the company completed a trial with The Keg Steakhouse + Bar in Regina that was very successful.

“We were able to help reduce their electrical bill by 25 per cent, without changing a light bulb or a product. It has all been through behavioural, policy and scheduling changes,” Dean said. “It’s pretty exciting to see the impact on a business’ operating costs. Not only does it align with most business’ corporate responsibility mandates, but this saving is very impactful on their bottom line.”

PHOTOS COURTESY OF GREENWAVE INNOVATIONS

GreenWave Innovations helps customers reduce energy consumption and costs by utilizing an advanced energy and asset management system.

When it came to introducing the SiteSage technology to the Regina marketplace, GreenWave Innovations worked alongside the Regina & Region Home Builders’ Association (RRHBA). The RRHBA agreed to do a trial at its office.

“The RRHBA has a very green mandate and had already done significant renovations throughout their office space to reduce their energy consumption,” Dean said. “Through our trial, we have been able to highlight all the great things they’ve done and found some significant, hidden costs to make their building even more efficient.

There is a now a smart TV in their lobby where they can show members their real time performance metrics.”

In early 2017 at the annual RRHBA Master Awards, GreenWave Innovations received the 2016 Innovation Award, which recognizes the best advances in all areas of the residential construction industry.

“We’ve been members and proud supporters of the Association for quite a few years. To complete a successful trial and then be acknowledged by the Association with this award is a huge honour,” Dean said. “The Regina & Region Home Builders’ Association has a very progressive and innovative mindset. We want to be amongst the leaders in the association and guide our member peers as we all work to reduce our carbon footprint.”

For further details, visit www.greenwaveinnovations.ca.

An unbeatable view.

Custom luxury homes, awless scenery and the natural beauty and privacy of this special community truly sets Greenside Terrace apart.

For the distinguished few.

With stunning lots still available, now is the time to claim your piece of the luxury lifestyle, where every home is maintained year-round so that you have more time to enjoy the things you love.

LOCATED IN FAIRWAYS WEST, NORTHWEST REGINA

harvardcommunities.ca | 306.777.0650

ask an

expert

about

Home Design

Robinson Residential Design Inc. 2232 – 2nd Avenue Regina, SK 306.352.6617 john@robinsonplans.com www.robinsonplans.com

by John Robinson

Planning your new home build requires a lot of self-reflection, which includes getting to know your wants and needs.

Begin by doing some research and collecting images that reflect on your style.

Finding a designer who is experienced, knowledgeable and personable can make the process run smoothly and help you design the house that best suits you, your lifestyle and your budget.

Q: How do I determine my needs and wants in a house?

A: Prioritize the spaces that will be used most frequently, and by everyone

living in the house. Needs and wants will vary from person to person. It is important to focus on your “needs” first, ensuring that your budget suits them. Once you have a realistic list of needs, you can then focus on your “wants”, which are the things that you don’t necessarily require for everyday life, but which would enhance it.

Q: How do I determine which architectural style suits my lifestyle?

A: Your location, list of wants and needs, budget, and, of course, your taste

all affect what architectural style will suit you best. If you are a minimalist, the contemporary style offers sleek, clean design. If you love the outdoors and are located in the woods or at a lake, you may be more directed to a craftsman style home. By discussing all this with your designer, they can give you recommendations of what styles would work seamlessly with your lifestyle.

Q: How do I get the most out of my space?

A: With the ever-increasing cost of construction, every square foot of the house must be usable. Working with a design professional, you can maximize the efficiency of your floor plan by making the best use of space and ensure that your drawings meet all of the necessary code and bylaw requirements for your area.

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

www.robinsonplans.com

22 | You’re Home Summer 2017

WALKABLE. WELCOMING. WONDERFUL. PLANT YOUR ROOTS IN WEST REGINA. Westerra is a walkable community focused around a central park and connected to many local and regional pathways. Residents can take advantage of plenty of green space, including sports fields, parks, playgrounds, and Regina’s first purpose-built cricket pitch. Whether you walk, bike, rollerblade, or jog – Westerra provides ample opportunity for active living. Come discover all this complete community has to offer. For more information on our builders and show home hours, visit us at WesterraRegina.ca.

SHOW HOMES

NOW OPEN

Mon - Thurs: 3pm - 8pm Sat, Sun & Holidays: 12pm - 5pm

LOCATED ON DEWDNEY AVENUE IN WEST REGINA BETWEEN COURTNEY STREET AND PINKIE ROAD

WesterraRegina.ca You’re Home Summer 2017 | 23

LIVING

outdoor

How much should you invest into your home’s landscaping?

by Carson Arthur PHOTOS COURTESY OF CARSON ARTHUR

The cost of landscaping always seems

to shock homeowners. Somehow people relate the cost of landscaping to the cost of gardening and are surprised to find out that decks and wood cost more than plants… not to mention the labour involved to install them.

In speaking to several industry professionals, the average backyard renovation starts at around $20,000 with some projects crossing the million-dollar mark. With such a huge range, how

24 | You’re Home Summer 2017

do you know how much your outdoor renovations should cost and how much you should really be investing in your home?

One of the biggest mistakes that a client makes is to envision what they want in the yard BEFORE they really set the budget. When I meet with a client, I start by asking what the approximate value of the home is. If you set your budgets based on percentages of your total home’s worth, then you know that

Carson Arthur is a nationally recognized outdoor design and lifestyle expert and host of HGTV’s “Green Force” and “Room to Grow”.

your plans will stay in-line with property values in your neighbourhood.

Front yards have been getting more attention by real estate agents and housing experts because of first-impression numbers. Several online sources place the value of curb appeal and a home’s first impression between five to eight per cent of the home’s worth. Items like shade trees and front walkways contribute to higher returns, as do front porches and sitting areas. While plants and gardens are important to the overall appeal, too many flowers in the front yard intimidate buyers looking for lowmaintenance homes. As my general rule, I try to keep the front yard landscaping at seven per cent of a homeowner’s renovation budget. That number does not include the driveway even though it may be at the front of your home.

Back yards tend to be more about function than a front yard renovation. Good design can offset the shortfalls from the inside of the home with outdoor elements that meet the same need. For example, if a home has a small kitchen, adding an outdoor kitchen with a barbecue or a smoker is a smart investment because it partially addresses buyers’ concerns when they see the inside space. Having a good deck or patio in your back yard that provides lots of living space can increase your home’s value by up to 12 per cent. (Century21, Canada).

You also need to consider the return on investment (ROI) for your outdoor renovation.

According to ‘Remodeling Magazine’s 2016 Cost-vs. Value Report’, a kitchen renovation has an expected return of 79 per cent if you sell

the home within five years of the completion of the work. After five years, that number steadily drops as styles change. A simple wood deck has an expected return of 81 per cent for the life of the deck, which averages eight to 10 years in Canada.

As you plan your spring projects this year, budget your dollars accordingly. I always tell homeowners to set aside about 20 per cent of their renovation budget for the outdoors. This may seem like a lot, but with all of the housing market numbers showing big returns in landscaping, you can renovate knowing that your money is being spent wisely.

Rejuvenate your home’s

cork

exterior with

by Ashleigh Mattern Cork is a practically magical material:

water-resistant, buoyant, elastic and fire-retardant, it’s used for everything from bottle stoppers to spacecraft heat shields. It’s also sustainably harvested ‒ the material comes from cork oak bark, stripped every eight to 10 years without harming the tree or the surrounding habitat.

And now you can use this remarkable material on the exterior of your house. Vipeq’s Thermal CorkShield is a water-based, granulated cork product with a patented polymer resin that can be sprayed onto existing exterior finishes.

The natural properties of cork mean the finish is flexible, taking the shape of almost any surface you spray it over. It’s durable, with a lab-tested lifespan of more than 25 years, and it acts as a sound barrier as well as a thermal barrier, protecting your home from temperature changes outside.

“It creates a building envelope, allowing your house to perform at top efficiency,” said Adam Schaffer, manager of Sask Eco Solutions, the Saskatchewan distributor for the product. “The thermal break allows all the insulation in the walls and substructure to do its job more efficiently.”

The spray can be applied directly to the surfaces you’re improving. For example, instead of knocking old brick out, you can spray right over it, creating a brand new look. It can be applied to almost any existing surface, with the exception of vinyl siding. It also works

26 | You’re Home Summer 2017

well for basements, sheds, garages and shops.

“It’s solving many issues and giving people an option for challenges we’ve faced in the past in the renovation and retrofit industry,” Schaffer said. “It’s very cost effective when you start to look at the other options, and especially when you take into account that it will lower your heating costs and cooling costs…. It’s going to make your home look brand new while providing great benefits like the insulation factor.”

Generally, it’s used for retrofits and renovations, but it’s also a great choice for new homes, especially for homeowners who are striving to be environmentally friendly in their building materials and choices.

“It’s hand-harvested cork, and the cork regrows on that same tree for another harvest after eight to 10 years. It’s renewable, efficient, and non-toxic.”

If it’s being applied to a new house, or re-

PHOTOS COURTESY OF SASK ECO SOLUTIONS

Thermal CorkShield by Vipeg is a water-based, granulated cork product that can be sprayed onto the existing exterior of a home. Not only does it rejuvenate the exterior of your home, it creates an insulated building envelope, resulting in energy savings.

placing vinyl siding, the house would be prepared as though stucco was being applied ‒ with a paper wire and scratch coat.

There’s a rainbow of colours available, but Schaffer says most people still go with classic greys or blacks. Even with safe colour choices, the shades stay vibrant up to 10 times longer than other exterior products.

The stippled texture is reminiscent of stucco, but more evenly distributed due to the application process.

“It’s beautiful ‒ it has an aesthetically pleasing texture. When you watch it spray on, and it takes the texture of the surface on the house, it really dresses everything up.”

It’s also easy to maintain; if a mess happens, it can be cleaned with a pressure washer.

The finish has been available in Spain for decades, but it’s new to Canada. The North American product is made by Vipeq In-

dustries, an Arizona-based company.

A Mike Holmes approved product, it’s been in testing in Canada for the past two years, and came to the Saskatchewan market during summer 2016.

As the Saskatchewan distributor, Sask Eco Solutions trains local contractors to install the product.

For the cork finish to take, it can’t be applied during freezing temperatures, so homeowners interested in the product have a limited window in which to book their appointment with one of the installers.

Shaffer says many of the installers are booked

for the 2017 season, so if you’re interested in having this product applied to your house, you’ll have to act fast before the fall freeze.

For a list of installers, visit the contact page of the Sask Eco Solutions website at www. saskecosolutions.com.

You’re Home Summer 2017 | 27

ask an

expert about

Saskatchewan Construction Safety Association 498 Henderson Drive 306.525.0175 www.scsaonline.ca

Hiring a Safe Contractor Q: What does safety have to do with getting my home renovation or build completed to my satisfaction?

A: I know most households are concerned with the costs of projects, and certainly want to get the best deal in town, but what they may not realize is that companies that take shortcuts with safety usually have higher injury rates on site. Frequent injuries can lead to those dreaded project delays, produce lower quality work, and cause the cost of your build or renovation to go up. Ultimately, you, as a consumer, end up paying more! That’s why safety is such a great indicator of a company’s ability to get projects done on time, on budget, without project deficiencies and injuries.

Q: What should I be looking for when hiring a contractor?

A: One of the big things you should really be asking these contractors is if their workers are adequately trained and if they have a safety management system in place, like the nationally-recognized Certificate of Recognition (COR®) program available through the Saskatchewan Construction Safety Association (SCSA).

Before hiring a builder, you should also request the following: Business License Proof of Commercial Insurance Letter of Good Standing showing the firm has a WCB account/ all premiums are paid Safety Program Certification (COR®) References from other customers A ny other qualifications, certification or accreditation (such

28 | You’re Home Summer 2017

BY COLIN PULLAR, SCSA PRESIDENT

as warranty, product certification, or Better Business Bureau Accreditation)

Q. What should I do if I can’t get this information?

A: If you feel like your questions are not being welcomed or they can’t provide the paper work you’re

asking for, chances are the company is not invested in proper safety management practices and you won’t be able to gain the same level of confidence that you would from a company that has all of their documentation in place and can openly talk about their commitment to safety. Here are some other questions to consider when hiring contractors, in order to gauge if the company takes the safety of its employees, your family members, pets and surrounding neighbours seriously: D o all of the employees

working at heights have proper fall protection equipment / a fall protection plan in place?

What types of hazardous materials are being used? i.e. allergens, irritants, chemicals Does the company provide supervision of workers on site?

Are supervisors and workers trained?

What equipment will they be using? Can it be a hazard?

How will they control hazards?

How will they secure the site after hours?

Home renovations and builds can be stressful. Choose a safe and qualified builder to alleviate potential frustration and ensure you are getting a high-quality product.

Make sure they’re COR® certified by the SCSA!

Companies serious about

are serious about

SCSAONLINE.CA

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welcoming

Anagram Solar Regina firm leads the way in solar energy systems I’d put my money on the sun and solar energy. What a source of power!

I hope we don’t have to wait until oil and coal run out before we tackle that.

Thomas Edison, 1931

By Hilary Klassen In Saskatchewan, solar power is an emerg-

ing energy source with an exciting future.

Anagram Solar Inc. is at the forefront of the industry’s development in the province.

The company supplies and installs roof-top, ground-mount, tracker and off-grid solar solutions. “Renewables are fairly new and young in Saskatchewan. We are one of only a handful of companies in the industry,” said Rick Turchet, president of Anagram Solar.

A consumer research study conducted by SaskPower a few years ago indicated that of the 30 | You’re Home Summer 2017

various renewable energy sources people could choose from, solar energy was the most popular, he says.

The province has some natural advantages when it comes to solar energy. Southern Saskatchewan has one of the highest number of sunshine hours in Canada with 2695.6 hours in 2013, Turchet said.

Anagram Solar was formed in 2016. Currently, their related company, Anagram Homes (also owned by Turchet and partners), is building 32 condos in Regina and each one is on a net-metered solar energy system. This is the first and largest of its kind in Saskatchewan.

“What that means is the owners get the benefit of the production of energy on a daily basis which reduces their power bills. They own that,” said Turchet.

Anagram Solar is currently the only company in the province providing this type of solar

opportunity, but Turchet assumes there will be others. Anagram is at the forefront of new solar opportunities and have positioned themselves as leaders in the industry at a critical time.

“Our goal is to be able to market and promote ourselves before the industry takes off, to be the early adopters, educate people and be ready if there are any changes, to prepare ourselves and be top of mind when policy changes,” Turchet said.

These are some of the reasons Anagram Solar recently became a member of the Regina & Region Home Builders’ Association (RRHBA).

“We welcome the ability to tap into home builders and try to inspire them and educate them about the opportunity because it’s coming,” said Turchet. “A lot of provinces and cities are already moving towards net zero homes. The house is designed and built to reduce household energy needs to a minimum and includes

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ANAGRAM SOLAR

Anagram Solar supplies and installs roof-top, ground-mount, tracker and off-grid solar solutions.

on-site renewable energy systems.” Net zero energy homes (NZE) produce about as much energy as they consume in a year.

Turchet says Saskatchewan is behind other parts of the world in roof-top solar energy development. “If you look almost anywhere in Europe and North America, there are advanced policies and financing programs in place for people to choose for themselves to make a difference and invest in renewable. In Saskatchewan, there is currently a net metering program for consumers and businesses.”

He says some of the barriers is the lack of education and financing programs for rooftop solar. He wants to see that change and believes that upcoming policy changes will make roof-top solar have exponential growth in the coming years. With the right policy, education and financing programs people will be more educated and attracted to the benefits solar energy will provide.

Turchet is passionate about solar and hopes to help remove barriers to solar energy in the province. “I hope to educate home builders as they in turn educate consumers.” He says consumers lack understanding of how the net

metering program works. Anagram Solar currently educates through its website, its Facebook page and in the future will be offering a class Solar 101 to teach people all the basics about how solar works, and untangle some of the misconceptions seen online.

The company evidences environmental leadership through its knowledge base of processes and new products, along with its commitment to clean energy. Turchet is currently working with several towns and villages who have experienced power outages in the past.

Small towns often experience power outages, and he is actively pursuing solutions for them.

Back-up batteries with stored solar energy are potential game-changers, not only for individuals but for towns who don’t want to fall victim to such outages.

As an up and comer in the industry, Anagram Solar demonstrates the importance of connections such as those formed through the Regina & Region Home Builders’ Association not only to educate and proliferate, but to help shape an emerging industry that sees a bright and sunny future. Discover more, by visiting www.anagramsolar.com.

You’re Home Summer 2017 | 31

Decks add character and functionality to a Photo: MNS

Composite decking can mimic the look of wood, but requires much less maintenance.

Composite decking can be a smart choice home, increasing outdoor entertaining space and oftentimes improving the resale value of a home. Homeowners have various options when choosing decking materials, but one such option, composite decking, is growing in popularity.

Decks used to primarily be made from pressure-

treated lumber. While lumber remains a popular material, more and more homeowners are opting for composite decking products. As anyone who has pressure-washed, stained and sealed wood decks can attest, such spaces require lots of upkeep to look new year after year. Composite decks require much less maintenance, making them highly attractive to homeowners who would rather spend time using their decks instead of maintaining them.

Composite decking is any type of decking material that is formulated from different recycled materials. The majority of these materials include hard plastic and wood shavings of pulp.

Unlike wood, which can fade, crack and rot, composite decking, which has been available for roughly a decade, does not degrade quickly and requires very little upkeep.

Available in a variety of wood colours to match outdoor decor, composite decks also can feature artificial wood grains to make them look similar to wood planks. Although composite decks are not completely impervious to the elements, with some occasional washing to impede mold growth and new technology that has improved stain-resistance, many of the pitfalls of other materials can be avoided with composite decks.

1155 Halifax St. (5th Ave. & Halifax St.) 32 | You’re Home Summer 2017

|

306.565.0741 | 1.888.545.5565

Composite decking fits in with eco-friendly lifestyles. The planks are made from recycled materials that would normally end up in landfills. Products from Trex, a popular composite decking manufacturer, are made from 1.5 million shopping bags and wood mill waste. As composite decks do not rot away and are longlasting, they will not need to be replaced frequently, which is another eco-friendly benefit.

When comparing composite decking brands, look mainly at the colours, materials used in the composition and the fastening systems. Many are fastened with regular deck screws. The newer systems have channels for hidden fastening, and the composite deck tiles snap into place.

Composite decks do have a few drawbacks.

They can be expensive — nearly double the initial cost of wood decks. And although they don’t rot, composite planks can scratch. Without refinishing, damaged boards will need to be replaced. Harsh chemicals may fade colour and damage the composite materials, so caution is needed.

Composite decking remains an in-demand choice for outdoor spaces. Low-maintenance and long-lasting, these decks have quickly become favourites among homeowners. (MNS)

| www.continentalfurniture.ca

You’re Home Summer 2017 | 33

easier

Breathe

by Jennifer Jacoby-Smith

You probably don’t give it much thought,

yet keeping your home’s ductwork clean can have a major impact on your health, according to Dennis Moscaliuk, owner of the family-owned company Klean King Vac Ltd. in Regina.

“Years ago when duct-cleaning first came out, it was for energy-efficiency, making sure the furnace worked good,” explained Moscaliuk. Now the biggest reason for homeowners to get their ducts cleaned on a regular basis is about health.

Over time, furnace ducts can accumulate any number of contaminants, such as mould spores, dust mites, bacteria, dead skin and hair. If you have a problem with mice, they can set up nests inside of the ducts as well.

As these problems accumulate in your ducts, they are tossed into the air every time the furnace or air-conditioning turns on. Once in the air, the irritants can be inhaled causing irritation, aggravating allergies and even causing serious lung issues.

Even new homes can have dirty ductwork.

Drywall dust can contain chemical residues – even lime – according to Moscaliuk, which can cause serious health problems when inhaled. Klean King cleans many of the new home builds in the city.

For older homes, ducts should be cleaned after any major renovation or construction to clear out drywall dust.

Normally Moscaliuk says residential ductwork should be cleaned every four years. If

34 | You’re Home Summer 2017

you have small children, pets, or live with allergies or respiratory problems, you might want to consider getting it done more frequently.

Klean King also cleans between 3,000 and 5,000 dryer vents a year, mostly commercial laundromats. He also cleans residential dryer vents. Moscaliuk says residential dryers probably only need to be cleaned every couple of years, but it’s important to make sure the venting is clear.

Cleaning your dryer vent can reduce the amount of time it takes to dry your clothes.

If the venting is clogged, humidity has no place to escape except to the laundry room.

This can take your machine much longer to dry a load, using more energy and increasing aggravation.

Over time, dryer lint from all of our fluffy winter sweaters can accumulate in the venting. Hot air moving through the venting hose can cause static electricity. This slight spark can ignite highly flammable dryer lint in a clogged dryer vent and cause a fire.

His company is committed to doing the small little things to protect their clients’ homes. Their staff members remove outdoor shoes and switch to indoor shoes upon entering a client’s house and use corner guards to protect walls from accidental dings. They also use rubber couplers for their air hoses – not the usual metal bands which can easily scratch hardwood floors.

His team utilizes two types of vacuum sys-

tems – portable units and truck-mounted units. Portable systems are used specifically for new builds or during wet weather to keep from tracking mud into the home.

The truck-mounted unit makes for a quicker job because the team doesn’t have to pause to empty the dirt like they do with the portable units.

The entire process takes roughly an hour and a half in an average house. Larger homes might take longer to finish.

Moscaliuk has been in business since 1984. He’s seen the business grow and expand from using a push-pull system for cleaning ducts to the spider-scorpion system that goes down your ductwork today to scrub off the dust clinging to the sides. The metal ductwork develops static electricity as air moves through it, meaning dust and

PHOTOS COURTESY OF KLEAN KING VAC

Health is the most important reason to get your home’s ductwork cleaned regularly, according to Dennis Moscaliuk, owner and operator of Klean King Vac.

other particles stick to all sides.

A member of the Better Business Bureau since 1986, Klean King was a 2014 Torch Award recipient in 2014 for best ethical business practices. The company is also certified

by Quadca – Qualified Air Duct Cleaners Affiliation.

“We focus on educating our customers – whether they hire us or not,” said Moscaliuk.

He points potential customers to his website (www.kleankingvac.com) – which has lots of information, a place to request a quote, as well as links to Youtube videos by other associations. These videos show clients what to expect when a duct cleaning professional comes to your door.

“If they’re not doing what those videos show then ask them to leave, because they’re not doing their job,” says Moscaliuk.

high quality

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You’re Home Summer 2017 | 35

Digging in:

Tips for landscaping that new yard

by Ashleigh Mattern The bare earth around your newly built house is

a blank slate, ready for you to impress your personality upon it. But where do you start?

Pick up a piece of paper and a pencil and start doodling, says Brent Waliduda, lead designer with Paramount Plantscapes Ltd. Your plan doesn’t have to be professional. Draw rough outlines of your yard and where you want certain features to be. Bubbles and circles are fine at this brainstorming stage.

“That way you have a reasonable idea of how large you want everything and where you want it,” Waliduda said. “It’s very worthwhile to actually do up a bit of a plan or have an idea before you start doing any work.”

He encourages homeowners to go online to get ideas. The more examples you can bring to your designer, the better. The more thought out your plan, the less time and money you’ll have to spend figuring things out with an architect or designer.

And he does recommend going to a professional to implement your plan, especially in a place like Regina, where the climate is challenging, and the earth you’ll be working with is heavy clay.

“What you’re going to find in Regina is that the soil is going to be one of your largest hurdles….

It’s very challenging for you as a homeowner to do the work yourself and to do it properly.”

Because of the clay in Regina’s soil, you’ll likely need a company that has heavy equipment to do the work, like a mini excavator for digging.

You’ll also want someone who knows how to manage the plants in such soil. Waliduda says that at Paramount, they place several gallons of additional topsoil and root start with the plants that are being installed to make sure they get the best start possible.

“If we simply placed the plants into the back36 | You’re Home Summer 2017

PHOTOS COURTESY OF PARAMOUNT PLANTSCAPES

fill clay that is present on most sites, they may not survive.”

A good company should provide you with some information for after care, and whether they offer a warranty on the workmanship or a guarantee on the plants’ survival. Paramount provides a one-year warranty on plants that they install.

Generally, you want the landscape designer to choose the plants ‒ they’ll know which plants work well in Regina’s climate.

You can get a sense for what’s available for our climate by visiting a plant retail outlet; they’ll carry varietals that will survive through the winter, and can answer questions you might have.

A landscape designer will sit down with you and discuss in detail how you’ll be using your yard so that they can help you make the best decisions about how to use the space.

“When we do landscapes we generally plan for reasonably low maintenance. Most clients do not want to spend a lot of time on yard work.

They may want to prune some plants or trees occasionally, and cut grass, but they generally don’t want to spend hours and hours looking after their yard,” said Waliduda.

Of course, there are certain people who are avid gardeners, but you should consider whether you are one of those people before you plan and implement something extravagant in your yard.

When it comes to landscape design, there are no hard and fast rules. Some people say you should avoid straight lines, but Waliduda says it depends on the space.

“Sometimes straight lines look great ‒ staggered straight lines especially can look amazing ‒ but it really depends what you’re after. It depends on the style of the garden or landscape you want. Curves provide interest and diversity to a large yard but some small areas would do well with angular lines. The type of plan that is chosen depends on the home owners taste.”

Straight lines might even be the best option for small yards or townhouses. As a general rule,

the larger the yard, the more difficult it is to incorporate straight lines.

In the end, though, it comes down to your own personal taste.

“It’s never dependent on what the landscape

designer wants; it’s what the owner wants and will be satisfied with,” said Waliduda.

It’s your dream home and your dream yard, and you get to call the shots. Get started, by visiting www.paramountplantscapes.com.

You’re Home Summer 2017 | 37

FUTURE HOME:

Home automation has never been easier

by Tom Eremondi

If you’re a homeowner wanting to install the latest home automation products, it can be a tricky process. There are numerous devices available, powering thousands of apps. One could spend a long time searching for products that are just right for their home and lifestyle.

Even more challenging after bringing the devices home is trying to figure out how to connect them to your wireless network, and then learning how to install and use the individual apps that control the devices.

Not all home automation devices even speak the same wireless language. You may need to have a different wireless adapter for each home automation solution, in addition to the WiFi 38 | You’re Home Summer 2017

router in your home.

A far easier and more convenient way to automate your home has arrived, with the introduction of new smartHOME packages from SaskTel. “We did a trial run of the smartHome packages in Regina last August,” says Michelle Englot, director of Corporate Affairs for SaskTel. “We had good success and will now be rolling these out across the province.

“SmartHOME is essentially a home security and home automation service that’s offered

by SaskTel and powered by SecurTek,” she explains. “It gives you the peace of mind of having 24-7 security monitoring as well as the option of a variety of home automation features.”

With smartHOME, Englot says consumers

can do things like manage energy consumption, lighting solutions and security. It can connect all key devices in the home such as locks, power outlets, garage doors, lights and others.

“Connected to your smartphone or other device, you can turn lights on and off, turn appliances on and off, check surveillance cameras, and receive security notifications such as whether you’ve left the home unlocked or the garage door open,” she adds. “All of these can be controlled remotely and you can essentially link to them from anywhere in the world as long you have an Internet connection.

“There are some really neat things you can do on the automation side if you have the smart connected plugs, lights and door locks,”

Englot says. For example, you can turn the iron off or close the garage door remotely. Or you can turn up the thermostat so the house is warm when you get home.

SaskTel is offering the automations in three packages (named SECURE, DETECT and AUTOMATE). The packages vary in price depending on the number of features and amount of security a homeowner wants.

The basic package, starting at $45 monthly, includes two-way intercom with monitoring station, smoke detector monitoring, one

motion sensor, and three door/window contact sensors.

For $55 monthly, customers can add remote access to the in-home panel through the smartHOME app, remote alarm set/disarm, water leakage detection and a carbon monoxide detector.

At $65/month, homeowners have all the above features but may also choose two of the following four options: interior motion camera viewer, thermostat control, doorbell video camera and garage door opener.

They’ll also get great add-ons such as smart plugs and light bulbs, door lock, door sensor, Wi-Fi hub, a doorbell camera and one external video camera.

“SaskTel knows that today’s customers want products that both protect and automate their homes,” Englot reports. “We chose the various features for these packages because they’re what we found was trending in the industry.”

She says the current smartHOME features

may just be only the beginning. “There likely will be future features such as smart fridges.

SaskTel will try to add features as they become available and in demand in the market.”

Homeowners who subscribe to a home security and monitoring service also benefit from lower insurance costs, adds Englot.

“Most insurance companies offer a 25 per cent discount on home insurance for customers who security packages like these.

That’s a significant saving for many people.”

The smartHOME is part of “SaskTel’s vision to connect people to the world. As our world becomes more interconnected with Internet-enabled devices, we decided this was a great opportunity to leverage those things along with our existing security services,” says Englot.

For more information about smartHOME automation, stop by your local authorized SaskTel dealer or visit www.SaskTel.com/ smartHOME.

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www.friestallman.com You’re Home Summer 2017 | 39

More Wheatland

to

than just fireplaces!

by Michele Tyndall Starting out in Balgonie in 1982, Wheatland Fireplaces offered quality products and had their installations done by fire fighters. More demand followed and two years later they expanded to a storefront in Regina where they became leaders in the fireplace industry in Saskatchewan.

Once established in Regina, and then in Saskatoon three years later, the team at Wheatland saw an increase in renovations and new builds in the province and took the opportunity to grow with the demand. Kitchen and bath products were added in 2016, and the company’s name changed to reflect that evolution: Wheatland Fireplace, Kitchen and Bath.

“A lot of customers that shop at Wheatland Fireplace, Kitchen and Bath are building a new home, planning a renovation or have been referred here by their contractor to have us help choose the best fireplace that fits their application. A lot of these customers are also doing plumbing fixtures, bathroom remodelling, or looking for vanities in the same phase or next. So we thought, why not be able to offer a wider range of product and help the customer bundle everything together at one place? This allows the customer to save money and help save time by not having to keep track of everything from multiple suppliers,” said Steven Semeniuk, manager of Wheatland Fireplace, Kitchen and Bath.

40 | You’re Home Summer 2017

Expanding inventory was the first step in Wheatland’s evolution, followed by finding more room to showcase the new wares.

Wheatland now has a brand new 6,000 square foot showroom in Regina where customers can explore a wide variety of fireplaces, kitchen appliances and high-end bath products and fixtures.

“Our showroom has always been very important to us. We have always wanted to have a showroom that helps the customer be able to see what it would look like in their own house. Our showrooms have always been the first step to helping a customer design their own house. It makes it so much easier if the customer can picture it in a real life setting compared to having everything cluttered in

Steven Semeniuk, manager, Wheatland Fireplace, Kitchen and Bath

PHOTOS BY SHAWN FULTON PHOTOGRAPHY

In 2016, Wheatland added an exciting selection of kitchen and bath products. The name change to Wheatland Fireplace, Kitchen and Bath reflects that evolution.

a showroom and a bunch of brochures. We want the customer to be able to look at and feel the product,” said Semeniuk.

For the kitchen, Wheatland offers Rubi kitchen faucets and sinks and Valley acrylic faucets and fixtures. Their signature kitchen products are the Heartland appliances, classic pieces that provide modern performance in beautifully crafted nostalgic appearance.

Bathrooms take on a whole new creativity with the products at Wheatland. Eago Canada fixtures and Pier Deco tubs are available, and with shower doors from Fleurco and Tidal Canada’s vanities, the team at Wheatland can help customers put together bathrooms

Wheatland Fireplace, Kitchen and Bath’s new 6,000 square foot showroom reveals a diverse selection of home products, from fireplaces, fire tables and grills to high-end kitchen and bath products and fixtures.

that combine ergonomics and innovation.

The Wheatland range of outdoor products includes high end grills from companies like Swiss Grills and Fire Magic, smokers from Louisiana Grills and Traegar and outdoor fire pits and fire tables from American Fyre Design.

The fireplaces that got them started include beautiful natural gas fireplaces from Regency, elegant wood-burning fireplaces from RSF and sleek modern gas and electric fireplaces from Interfocus. No matter what style a house is or what design choices have been made, Wheatland has the perfect products to fit. And all of the companies Wheatland works with are Canadian.

“A lot of retailers that have showrooms are very focused on the select few brands they carry. The difference is we have partnered with multiple supply channels to offer our customers a huge selection,” said Semeniuk.

Wheatland Fireplace, Kitchen and Bath has built a trust with their customers based on quality product, fair pricing and a guarantee that they will stand against their products and services.

“We want to be able to offer customers price savings and one fa-

miliar face to deal with throughout the whole process. So if there is a product or price our customer needs to meet we can do that. Just let us know what you are looking for and we can help narrow it down for you and make the process very easy,” said Semeniuk.

For more information on the great lineup of products available at Wheatland and how to start shopping for that new look, visit www. wheatlandfireplace.com/ regina or drop by the great new showroom at 946 Park Street in Regina.

You’re Home Summer 2017 | 41

successful How to plan a

renovation

by Pat Rediger As a homeowner, your house may feel like your castle. However, over time even the sturdiest structure can begin to break down.

There are numerous reasons to renovate a home, from fixing a damaged or time-worn area, to improving liveability to beautifying or increasing the comfort level. You’re Home Magazine sat down with Dallas Willness, Regional Partner with Alair Homes in Regina, to get his tips on achieving the perfect home renovation. Alair Homes serves the communities in and around Regina by providing high-quality custom built homes and historically appealing, yet modern renovations.

1.Why should a homeowner consider renovating their home?

Building your own custom home or turning your existing house into your dream home can be one of life’s most satisfying events. In a home renovation study that received input from over 1,300 home owners, It was found that 89 per cent of homeowners who renovated their homes enjoyed improved family life; 84 per cent spent more time with their family; 80 per cent felt much more relaxed in their home; and 42 per cent did more entertaining of guests. One day, after all the planning and decision making is over and the hammering has stopped, you can finally say, “It’s done and we love it.”

2.What are some of the things a homeowner should consider before beginning a home renovation?

You need to ask yourself, “Do I want more comfort, security, enjoyment, or better health?”

Maybe you’ve always wanted to build your 42 | You’re Home Summer 2017

dream home, or the kids are gone and it’s time to reward yourself and family with more space – just in time for the grandkids. It could be because you want a more open floor plan with lower maintenance and to be more energy efficient, or because you have a new addition to your family.

3.What is the next step for homeowners after deciding to go ahead with a renovation?

The next step is choosing the right contractor – the most important decision you’ll ever make. Do your research, ask a lot of questions, investigate their process, assess their track record, review their pictures and videos, read their case studies and testimonials, get to know the decision makers and project managers, and never underestimate the importance of great rapport and communication.

4.How can homeowners get the most value for their dollar when choosing a contractor?

There are three options to choose from

when picking a contractor: a) Fixed Price: Many people are initially attracted to a fixed price contractor because they believe the total cost is known up front.

However, contractors do not typically disclose their markup, which can be as high as 30 per cent or more depending on your project. You’re limited in the amount of input you have and any changes often carry heavy financial penalties, referred to as change order fees. On top of that, these types of contractors are incentivized to cut corners and use cheaper or inferior products to increase their profitability. b) Cost Plus or Time and Materials: Cost plus is based on the actual cost to the contractor plus an agreed upon rate for management fees. Many people prefer this model because they feel they have freedom with their choices and selections, and the markup on the product they choose is usually known, which gives them more confidence that they’re getting a good deal. However, many contractors are rarely transparent about providing and breaking down management fees in a way you can clearly understand. Be-

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ALAIR HOMES

Alair Homes won the Master Award for ‘Kitchen Renovations’ for this home on Hannah Bay.

cause of this, clients are often blindsided by a hefty bill that comes at the end of the project and affects their experience, satisfaction and happiness. c) Client Control Method: This is a revolutionary approach to building that combines the best qualities of Fixed Prince and Cost Plus. The benefits are that you as a customer play a central role in the selection of the best subcontractors to maintain the highest quality of work with transparent costs. This means all costs are determined and agreed upon before construction begins. You get to see the pricing for material and labour that the builder gets with full transparency. Lastly, you’ll get to see and approve all invoices that come in before purchases are made with zero change order fees.

A contractor who employs the Client Control Method will manage your expectations and empower you to take full control over your project.

5.When it comes to home renovations, would you recommend that homeowners do-it-themselves?

If you’re tackling a home renovation project yourself, you have to make sure you understand building codes and the potential challenges that may arise. So many people look to HGTV or YouTube for renovation advice, and it’s such a dangerous thing. During a renovation, you’ve got many moving parts from concrete, framing, plumbing, electrical, dry walling, cabinetry… it’s not simple. It’s easy for a contractor to manage these moving parts because they already have the experience, knowledge an d relationships. In many cases the extra fees that come with using a contractor can be compensated because of their buying power and efficiency, and at the end of the day we do all have to value our time.

For more details, visit www.alairhomes. ca/regina.

You’re Home Summer 2017 | 43

expert about Third Party New Home Warranty ask an

Denise Mildner, CEO New Home Warranty Program of Saskatchewan Inc. 306.373.7833 director@nhwp.org www.nhwp.org

Q: During my first year of home ownership, what can I expect regarding service and warranty work?

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.

Now up to 10 years!

You will be covered for*: • Your initial deposit up to $50,000 if the builder defaults • Defects in workmanship or materials for the first year • Exterior water penetration for two years • Major structural defects for ten years

Located in Regina to serve you better!

* For homes enrolled or condo projects approved after January 1, 2017 This is not a complete description of coverage. Contact the New Home Warranty Program of Saskatchewan for warranty details.

44 | You’re Home Summer 2017

A: Typically, every new home will undergo a number of substantial changes within the first year after construction. These changes are mostly due to the moisture content of the construction materials, their drying rate and the forces of nature including extreme heat, cold and humidity. The subsequent changes may result in minor damage such “nail pops” and “drywall cracking”. Not to worry; your builder’s service and warranty program will look after your concern within a reasonable time frame.

While the expectation may be to call the builder with every little concern, it may be more advantageous to both the builder and you as the homeowner to wait until sometime closer to the first year anniversary date of possession and address all of the concerns at one time, as many of the normally expected warranty issues are a one-time fix by the builder. That way, maximum shrinkage of wood framing and drywall panels can take place, and the number of situations requiring attention can be better quantified. What’s more, by waiting, the necessary corrective work needs to only take place once during the year, with minimal disruption to your daily routine.

In some instances, materials or systems may not perform as initially intended and depending on the situation may require more prompt action, so your builder will have to be notified as soon as reasonably possible so the issue can be dealt with.

Many of the components of your new home, such as roofing, siding, windows, appliances, the furnace and water heater will have warranty protection provided by the product manufacturer. These manufacturers’ warranties should be passed on to you by your builder representative so that you may benefit from the extended protection they provide. If you don’t receive the warranty material and instruction manuals for installed items, be sure to ask for them.

If you have any questions regarding normal first-year service or response times, check with your builder representative to get the answers you need, as there’s no better source for first-hand information.

In the event of after-hours emergencies, most builders also supply emergency telephone numbers for electricians, plumbers and heating contractors so you can contact them directly and then advise your builder accordingly on the next business day.

Be aware that warranties provided by your Registered Builder Member and the Saskatchewan New Home Warranty Program are time sensitive. Any outstanding first year material and workmanship issues should be noted in writing to the Builder and Program by the end of the first year of possession, in accordance with your New Home Warranty Certificate.

You’re Home Summer 2017 | 45

Member

RRHBA Member Directory 1 Stop Vacuum Centres

concrete sask. (srmca)

glenrose master builder

Access Communications

condominium institute

grasshopper construction

Advance Door Systems ltd.

CONEXUS Credit Union

greenwave innovations inc.

AECOM

Continental Furniture and appliances

gypsum drywall interiors

affinity credit union

Convoy Supply Ltd.

alair homes

Cornerstone Masons Ltd.

Habitat for Humanity Regina

Alford Floors & Interiors (1967) Ltd.

cougar custom cabinets

Harmony Builders Ltd.

All Weather Windows

Crawford Homes (1991) Ltd.

Harris Rebar

aloha - beachcomber regina

Creative Door Services Ltd.

Harvard communities

Alquinn homes (saskatchewan) ltd.

Creative Kitchens Ltd.

harvard western insurance

amira homes ltd.

Crown Appraisals - Randy Toth

Home Solutions

anagram homes

Culligan Water Conditioning

homes & land regina and southern

anagram solar Inc.

cupboard brothers cabinet factory

Appelquist Interior Design Inc.

D & S Homes Ltd.

Homes by Dream

Ardel Steel

Dakine Home Builders Inc.

homes by jms

Aspen Granite

Daytona Homes Regina Ltd.

hth custom homes ltd.

Aspen Homes Ltd.

daytona land

HYBRID renovations & restorations

Associated Engineering (SASK.) Ltd.

Deiana General Construction Ltd.

Hydeman Property Management Ltd.

Association of Regina REALTORS® Inc.

Delta hotels by marriott regina

Information Services Corporation

Audio Warehouse

Dependable Vacuums plus inc.

Inland Concrete Div of Lehigh Hanson

Authentic Developments Inc.

deveraux homes

Innovation Renovation & Roofing Inc.

automated av/shield integration ltd.

diamond homes ltd.

I-XL Masonry Supplies Ltd.

avana homes

distinct homes inc.

J & C Custom Cabinets Ltd.

Bar T Construction & Pre-Stainer Ltd.

Dream Development

Jacuzzi hot tubs regina

Bath Fitter Regina

durabuilt windows & doors

james hardie building products

Baywest Projects sask Inc.

Dynamic Roofing & Exteriors

JELD-WEN Windows and Doors

Bennett Building co.

economic development regina inc.

JIC Windows & Doors / renovations

saskatchewan ltd.

saskatchewan

Best Price Railing Ltd.

edge rock concrete inc.

K.M. Burgess Agencies Ltd.

Better Business Bureau of Sask. Inc.

Emerald Park Homes Ltd.

Kanuka Thuringer LLP

birchwood builders

enercon products – A beacon roofing

Karina Developments Ltd.

bls asphalt inc.

supply company

Kaycan Ltd.

Brandt Tractor Ltd.

Evans Development Group Inc.

Kelturn Drywall Ltd.

Budget Blinds

everflow eaves & exteriors inc.

Kim Shaheen Financial Inc.

Builders’ Plumbing and Heating

Exterior Finishers Direct Inc.

Kitchen & Bath Classics

Canada Mortgage & Housing Corporation

Fanny’s Furniture & Kitchens

Kitchen Craft Cabinetry

canadian custom flooring

fbc

Klean King Vac Ltd.

Canadian Home Builders’ Association

Federated Insurance

KMP Law

Canridge Roofing

Fiorante Homes and Commercial Ltd.

Kratz Homes Ltd.

canyon creek estates

Fix Building Products

kraus canada inc.

Capital auto mall

Floform Countertops

krn residential design ltd.

cater 2 construction ltd.

Floors By Design Ltd.

l & m plumbing and heating

Century West Homes Ltd.

forster projects inc.

Lafarge canada inc.

CertaPro Painters

Fries Tallman Lumber (1976) Ltd.

Larry’s Sheet Metal

CIBC Mortgage & Lending

frontier masonry ltd.

layne arthur architecture ltd.

Cindercrete Products Ltd.

G.R. Distributors Inc.

Lennox Ind. (Canada) Ltd.

Citizen custom Homes

galon insurance brokers

Loraas Disposal Services Ltd.

City of Regina

Gang Nail Trusses & Building Components

Lowe’s Canada

clear view windows and doors

geiger homes & developments ltd.

luxury granite, quartz & marble

clutter x organizing systems

Gentek building products ltd.

MacPherson Leslie & Tyerman LLP

CNG Stone Products Ltd.

GES Global Experience Specialists

made in the shade blinds & more

Coast Wholesale Appliances inc.

Gilroy Homes Inc.

colliers custom carpentry ltd.

Glacier Glass Service Ltd.

46 | You’re Home Summer 2017

of south saskatchewan man cave coatings

Member

RRHBA Member Directory McKercher LLP

Richardson Lighting

Thomas Sand & Gravel

merit contractors association

Rick’s Custom Cabinets & Renovations Ltd.

Timberstone Distribution Regina

microage regina

Ripplinger Homes

Town & Country Plumbing & Heating (2004)

Midwest Surveys Inc.

Robinson Residential Design Inc.

Trademark Homes Inc.

Mikron Homes & Construction Ltd.

rohit communities

Travelodge Hotel & Conference Centre

mirolin industries corporation

Rona Home & Garden

Trithart Homes ltd.

MNP LLP

roof-cat roofing

Truss T. Mfg. Ltd.

Munro Homes Ltd.

roofmart prairies ltd.

tth law firm

mwc chartered professional

RSE (Regina Soffit & Eaves) Ltd.

urban fringe developments ltd.

sask eco solutions

Varsity Homes Ltd.

N.I.S. Contractors Ltd.

Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce

W.F. Botkin Constr. Ltd. Ready Mix Div.

National Home Warranty Group Inc.

Saskatchewan Construction Safety

accountants llp

New Home Warranty Program of Saskatchewan

Association

Wappel Construction Ltd. WestSource

Saskatchewan Housing Corporation

Wheatland Fireplace

North Prairie Developments Ltd.

saskatchewan science centre

Wheatland Roofing Inc.

North Ridge Development Corporation

SaskEnergy

Wilco Contractors Southwest Inc.

Northern Fireplace Ltd.

SaskPower

Wood Country

Northern Tar & contracting ltd.

SaskTel

wsp canada inc.

Nu-Fab Building Products

Scotia McLeod – Prairieview group

Yagar Developments Inc.

Olive Waller Zinkhan & Waller LLP

Security Building Supplies

zarkor construction ltd.

on av inc.

Shatkowski Homes

Operation Dirt (2006) Inc.

Shaver’s Sash & Door Ltd.

optimum roofing inc.

Sherwood Co-op Home Centre

Bold listings indicate members

Overhead Door Co. of regina (1973) ltd.

Sierra Construction Ltd.

advertising in this issue

P.B. Custom Cabinets Renovations

simply stowed custom closets

& Millworks

SlabMaster Ltd.

Pacesetter New Homes Ltd.

South Country Equipment Ltd.

Palandri Cabinets

southland roofing inc.

Paramount Plantscapes Ltd.

Spraywest Inc.

Parkland Carpet One

spring green homes ltd.

pekarbilt construction

Stantec Consulting Ltd.

Phantom Screens

Steel Craft Door Sales & Services Ltd.

phillips blinds & shades

Sterling Plg, Htg & A/C Ltd.

Ply Gem Canada Inc.

Sthamann Homes Inc.

porchlight

Sun Life Financial

primary engineering and construction

sun ridge residential inc.

Prime Fasteners

suncoast enclosures

Professional Plumbing & Heating Inc.

sundog developments ltd.

Progressive Home Warranty ltd.

Sunset Bay Leisure

PV waste solutions

sunwest developments ltd.

quantum construction inc.

superblinds & draperies of regina

queen city custom construction inc.

Superior Cabinets

Queen City Glass (1961) Ltd.

superior garage

queen city overhead door inc.

tailored living featuring premieR garage –

rainsoft (regina) ltd.

southern sask.

RBC Royal Bank

TCU financial group

Regina & District Chamber of Commerce

TD Canada Trust

Regina Construction Association

Terra Developments Inc.

Regina leader-post, a division of postmedia

that guy contracting

network inc.

Regina Window & Exteriors Renewed Kitchens

the ensuite – a division of emco corporation the floor show (regina) ltd.

You’re Home Summer 2017 | 47

closing

remarks

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

Open the door to

your new home The vast majority of Reginans enjoy the

benefits of home ownership. For those who are entering the home buying stage of their lives, home ownership is something they have dreamed about, planned for and are proud to be achieving.

When people begin to think about buying a home, they often start in the resale market, checking out what is available for used homes in Regina’s existing neighbourhoods. They see a vast choice of homes that are already built and lived in by other families, homes that reflect those owners’ hopes and desires.

More than likely that home has experienced a few iterations of renos over the years, perhaps done by a professional or as someone’s DYI project. If the home hasn’t been renovated, then you know it is going to need a lot of updating.

Another option is to have a fresh start and build new. Nothing beats the value of today’s new homes. The quality of construction has never been better. Professional new home builders offer more choice, more features and more service than ever before, all at competitive prices. If you are considering a home purchase, you owe it to yourself to explore the benefits of buying new.

Everything is new! It is hard to describe the feeling of “new”. Simply enjoy it – along with the knowledge that you choose everything to fit your lifestyle and your preferences.

Totally up-to-date construction. A brand new home is built to the latest codes and standards, using modern building practices, products and technologies. For you, that

48 | You’re Home Summer 2017

means solid, lasting quality throughout – both what you can see and what you cannot.

Energy efficiencies keep your costs down. A comfortable living environment. A home that’s easy to take care of.

Financial predictability. Buying new makes it easier to manage your household budget.

You know what your fixed housing costs are and you don’t have to worry about sudden expensive housing repairs or replacements for many years.

After-sales service. Once you are in your new home, you still have back-up. Your builder is only a call away, if you have any concerns or questions. Professional builders have a customer service program and established follow-up process, and will tell you clearly what to expect after move-in.

Warranty. Professional new home builders provide third party warranty on their homes, a great reassurance for new home buyers. In addition, many of the products used in the home are warranted by the manufacturers beyond the lifespan of the builder’s warranty.

I am confident if you take the opportunity to look at a newly built home, you will have no problem finding the right home for your family. New homes are designed for today’s lifestyle, with bright open spaces and lots of windows, well-appointed kitchens, great rooms for family togetherness and cozy areas for quiet relaxation. Many standard plans can also be adapted to your specific needs.

New homes are rich in design details, from the drama of columns and wall niches for artwork to simple, understated elegance. The

choice is yours.

No home is complete without your personal touch. While builders’ practices vary, they all leave room for you to create the final look of your home. You choose the cabinets, flooring, tiles, lighting and other finishing components. With a new home, you get what you want, from the very beginning.

And that’s just part of the picture. Just as important is what you cannot see, but will experience every day: lower energy costs, better indoor air and a very comfortable living environment, thanks to state-of-the-art construction and systems.

Go to www.freshstartbuildnew.ca to learn more about the great advantages of building or buying a brand new home today. Go to www.reginahomebuilders.com to see what builders are offering in Regina’s new and existing neighbourhoods. There you will find the resources to guide you through the new home buying/building process, plus Regina’s most extensive list of professional builders that have obtained the Certified Professional Home Builder Program and carry third party new home warranty recognized by the Regina & Region Home Builders’ Association.

Then visit show homes, talk with professional new home builders, and let them show you how to attain your housing goals and what a new home can offer you. Their door is always open.

Open the door to your new home. Get the facts and consider. Enjoy the long-lasting benefits of a brand new home, today, and for a long time to come.

NOW OPEN

New! Elementary School Scheduled To Open

SEPTEMBER 2017!

w w w . g r e e n s o n g a r d i n e r. c o m

Celebrating 10 Years Of Business!

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For a FREE In-Home consultation call 306.584.3340 or visit www.renewedkitchens.com 50 | You’re Home Summer 2017

10 Year Anniversar y Sale

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Coupon expires September 30, 2017

Discover your beautiful life.

“

We love living in The Creeks because of the proximity to nature.

It's just a short walk to the creek, own piece of country in the city!

Erin Muir

”

YOUR BEAUTIFUL LIFE AWAITS. LEARN MORE AT :

THECREEKS.CA

we are excited Grand Opening September 9th Welcome to Eastbrook on the Greens, an eclectic neighbourhood that combines considered design and a unique sense of character. Think pedestrian friendly streetscapes surrounded by 24 acres of parklands. An imaginative and welcoming Pirate Park. A vibrant Urban Plaza with shops and cafés to mingle with neighbours.

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discover more at eastbrook.ca