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NOVEMBER 2012

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Wicker furniture is a great means for creating a cozy corner on your patio or deck. There are a few things you can do to keep it in good shape for years after the purchase.

a soft cloth. If the stain is made by a greasy substance or greasy fingers, rub it with talcum powder.

Stains made by hot dishes are more difficult to eliminate but you can try nevertheless. The best method is the mixture of vegetable oil with alcohol. Dip a tampon in it and go over the stain in a circular motion until it disappears.

Wicker furniture requires special care and conditions, especially where humidity is concerned. The best conditions for it are low humidity; it may lose its shape if the air is too dry.

Water stains on the surface of a wicker piece should be covered with loose flour and rubbed with a clean soft rag dipped in vegetable oil or technical lubricant.

To dust lacquered or polished wicker, use a soft and clean rag made of wool, velvet, or flannel. No wet rags or sponges – water and dampness make the shine disappear. Try a homespun method of a used tea bag or used loose tealeaves wrapped in a clean rag. Rub lacquered surfaces with this tampon, and then go over them with a dry soft wool cloth.

Wicker furniture tends to yellow with age. Non-lacquered chairs and armchairs can be cleaned with salty water.

Try these simple recipes and give your wicker a longer life.

To eliminate stains, use salt and vegetable oil solution. Apply and leave for a couple of hours. Take off the dried solution and rub with

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We′ve Got The Right Mortgage For You! Within a wide variety of mortgages in TD Canada Trust Bank, there is certainly one that is the best for you. I am a specialist providing you with the consultation in your home, helping you make the optimal choice.

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November 2012 To advertise in All About Home magazine please contact us

Lina Itelman

Manager, Mobile Mortgage Specialist

Tel: 416-567-6791 Fax: 1888-516-8495

2727 Steeles Ave. West, Unit 307, Toronto, ON, Canada, M3J 3G9 Tel: 416-477-6107, 416-877-0449, E-mail: aahtoronto@gmail.com

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Lina.Itelman@td.com Website:

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Tropical Style Calm and natural, with a slightly exotic flair, tropical style decor exudes warmth and beckons to relaxing lifestyle. Lazy and carefree , this interesting style reminds of a melting pot for such ingredients as elegant simplicity, exotic motifs, and unlimited sunlight.

Tropical interiors are similar to eternal vacation where time slows down and the crazy pace of the modern life goes to a standstill.

They are warm and pleasant; they emphasize small joys of life and total relaxation.

ceiling over the centre of the bed and all four corners, to the ceiling above the corners of the bed. Or just buy a ready-made canopy made of mosquito netting.

This style is for those who enjoy steel band rhythms; who have always been interested in the history and culture of the South Pacific; whose favourite cocktail is always decorated with an umbrella; who mark their calendar with such special dates as the Brazilian carnival; and who have no doubt that palms can grow in cold climates.

Vivid Prints

Mosquito Netting What can be more romantic than a bed encircled in white mosquito netting?! Regardless of the fact that this, lighter, version of the canopy was born out of practical considerations, it creates a tropical mood even when there are no insects in your bedroom.

Try this: Even if your bed does not look like a classic frame that calls for a weightless veil of a canopy, take heart – you can always create a simple canopy using lightweight fabric and affixing the centre of it to the

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Mix at will a traditional floral pattern with wavy lines and stern stripes to obtain the craziest colour schemes. Choose large welldefined prints like palm leaves or other such tropical design.

Try this: Balance solid and patterned. Use the brightest colours imaginable but keep the number of different colours down. The hues to mix in order to obtain your tropical cocktail may include dark green reminiscent of palm leaves, rich red recalling the brightness of fuchsia, the vivid yellow of tropical flowers, and the intense blue of the ocean surface. Mix your cocktail – but stop short of shaking it!

Weaved Textures The tropical style celebrates natural textures – from jute to hemp, from basketry

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to bamboo, etc. Choose woven and rattan furniture, boldly weaved rugs, and baskets of all shapes and looks, for accents. Instead of a painting or a photograph, hang your walls with straw mats or a few straw hats that will emphasize the exotic atmosphere of the place.

Try this: Avoid decorating your dwelling with woven textures from top to bottom.

Start small. Create one accent wall papered in natural algae or made of straw rug panels.

Tropical Plants Luxurious wild vegetation is what makes tropics what they are. Populate your home with live potted tropical plants – just make sure it does not become an equivalent of the Amazon jungle.

Try this: Good news! There is a long list of tropical plants that will survive even your most thorough attempts to kill them!

Among these are philodendrons, crotons, and a whole score of other plants. Just read the instructions carefully!

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JK Joseph

Kitchens

Joseph Kitchens

A free double Bosco sink with purchase

www.josephkitchens.com 60 Doncaster Ave. (Unit 2) Thornhill ON. L3T 1L5 Phone: 905-707 7756 Email: info@josephkitchens.com

Exotic Woods Brazilian nut, teak, and other tropical woodes are ideal for your chosen decorating style – all together or separately. Remember: the tropical style is all about easy living, right? Therefore, mix and match any exotic woods without thinking of whether they can be combined.

Try this: The whole beauty of the tropical wood is in its natural pattern – waves, stripes, veins, and spots, so do not interfere

Condo Bathurst/Clark Asking $297,000

Very bright spacious CORNER unit 1300 sqft. 2 large bdrs + den, 2 wshrs. Open concept living. W/O to huge Balcony from 2 bedrooms.

Fully renovated, freshly painted.

Laminate throughout. Eat-in kitchen w/granite counters, custom backsplash, huge widows, S/S appliances, ceramic tiles. Parking.

Gated security. Gym, sauna, outdoor heated swimming pool, tennis court.

Thornhill Woods(Dufferin/Autumn Hill) Asking $569,900

Bright and spacious semi-detached home. 3+1bdrs, 4wshrs. Open concept layout. Marble foyer w/modern powder room. Upgraded kitchen w/glass backsplash, S/S appliances. Master bdrm w/upgraded ensuite. Crown mouldings.

Laminate floors throughout. Family room w/fireplace. Professionally finished apartment in W/O basement. Close to great schools, Community center, plazas.

30% off all kitchen types Place your living room furniture in such a way as to create a feeling of a spacious patio where it is so easy to enjoy the warm sun and keep cool with ice-cold drinks.

with all this variety and let it bloom in the decor of your home.

Living in the Open Air In the tropics, the interior and exterior seamlessly converge. Of course, living in Canada, as we do, we cannot stay outside day and night all year round, but it is always reasonable to come up with a way to integrate the inside and outside themes in a room decor.

Try this: There is no need to build an addition to your home to create a feeling of a tropical lanai. Stained paper, wooden shutters, and room dividers of natural fabric – these are the tools to help you define various sections in your living space.

Now, are you ready to start on an exotic voyage without leaving your home?

Rutherford/Weston Rd

Condo Bathurst/Steeles

Asking $499,000

Vellore Village Location!! Beautiful, bright 3 Bdrs, 3wshrs semidetached home. Open concept.

Main floor with large living and dining rooms, hardwood floors.

Family size kitchen/centre island and W/O to patio. Large master bdrm with W/I closet and modern upgraded insuite. House linked with garage only. Close to all amenities, schools, parks, plazas and Hwys.

Yonge/Elgin Mills, Richmond Hill Asking $535,000

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Stunning bright corner townhouse on a huge lot (33 x 116 ft). 3 + 2 bdrs, 4 wshrs. 9 ft ceilings. Columns.

Staircase w/iron pickets. Upgraded kitchen cabinets. Family room w/ gas fireplace. Large master bdrm w/modern ensuite. Professionally finished basement apartment with separate entrance. Great location of Yonge street!!

Asking $314,900

Large quiet CORNER unit 1600 sqft.

Great view. 3bdrs, 2 full wshrs. Open concept. Many recent upgrades.

Large eat-in kitchen with upgraded cabinets, pantry, granite countertop, huge panoramic view windows.

New hardwood, ceramic floors.

Potlights. Fireplace in family room is negotiable. Locker ensuite, 3 overhead storage blocks. Parking.

Condo fee $655 covers it all, including cable TV. Gym & sauna.

Close to TTC, subway, shopping.

Bathurst/Shaftsbury,Richmond Hill Ask $669,000

November 2012

Large 4 bedroom, 4 wshr home in High demand Westbrook area! Huge lot 35 x 128 ft. Large kitchen w/heated ceramic floors. Large master bdrm w/5pcs ensuite. Professionaly finished basement: kitchen, bathroom, family w/fireplace. New 2009 ceramic floors, roof, windows, Hi-efficiency furnace.

Double car garage. Steps to excellent schools, parks, trails.

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A trendy

BATHROOM Various Canadian designers have their own unique ideas as to what a trendy bathroom should look like.

ALL NATURAL Debbie Travis, the popular TV host, holds the view that, while new kitchens keep getting lighter and airier, the bathroom, on the contrary, has a quieter decor with the use of natural materials. Of course, this is true for a bathroom for adults; the children’s bathroom should be bright and cheery.

Ceramic tiles with imitated wood design help create a subdued image. Glass tiles are still trendy but they have been gradually replaced by processed glass. Processed materials have lately been dominating in environmentally friendly interior design – and this is great.

Metal hardware for this kind of decor comes in soft shades of champagne or antiquated bronze creating an additional effect of warmth and comfort.

CLEAN STRAIGHT LINES Alicia Sass of Carey Mudford Interior Design firm prefers modernistic design to traditional one. She feels it suits people who prefer clean straight lines and hate chaos and excessive details. It means replacing gloomy and cumbersome pretentious decor and wide mouldings with fresh clean colours and large geometric pattern tiles.

ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY counters Lynda Felton, the founder of the online magazine Covet Garden suggests an unusual solution selecting environmentally friendly materials for counters and other horizontal planes. Modern composite materials based on processed glass (Ice Stone®) or paper and resins (PaperStone®) imitate natural stone but are considerably more durable and require less complicated care while looking unusual and attractive.

WOOD IN THE LEADING ROLE Designer Lynda Felton suggests wood as a preferential treatment for home decor for those who wish to add unique accents to their bathroom. You can go even further - an Italian company Francoceccotti, for once, manufactures not only decorative elements including benches and bathmats but even wooden tubs and sinks!

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USE COLOUR AND LIGHTING TO EXPRESS YOUR INDIVIDUAL TASTE

to traditional floral ornaments or vertical stripes.

Abovementioned Alicia Sass states that, even though modern bathroom design strives for simplicity, it doesn’t mean that it leaves no room for individual expression. The best area in which to experiment and express your individual taste is lighting.

Tiles that Attract Attention

The bathroom walls can be painted into happy bright colours. Wallpaper is back – but geometrical patterns of rich contrasting colours or fabric imitations are preferred

The Floor of Natural Wood

Lynn Donaldson, the president of her own architecture and design company, suggest unusual tiles as the focal point of a modern bathroom, regardless of where you install them – on the floor, in the shower stall, or the sink or tub backsplash.

Debbie Travis: Wooden floors are becoming ever more popular. Modern treatment methods allow a wider use of wood in the bathroom decor. Another great solution for the bathroom floor is processed wood.

Wood composites may also be used in bathroom furniture and mirror frames. Their unusual textures and soft natural colours make the decor especially warm and inviting.

Fill your interior decor with your favourite things to create the feeling of privacy. The main trend in here is your own feelings and tastes.

In the modern bathroom decor, texture is more important than colour because it is the most efficient way to give depth as well as define spaces.

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November 2012

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Decorating with plants People have been decorating their homes with live plants and flowers for centuries. It has been known since ancient times that plants create positive energy in the home.

Chinese would use azalea to decorate their dwellings, ancient Egyptians, cypress, and Romans, laurels. Only the privileged classes had the luxury of decorating their homes with plants. Now, as times have changed, anybody can have houseplants in their abode. All you need is love of nature, knowledge of colour and shape basics, and taste for creating plant compositions.

Take into consideration the fact that houseplants are not furniture pieces that can be moved around at will and placed just anywhere you wish. Temperature and lighting requirements are different for each kind of plants. Below you will find a few rules for plant decorating.

Fichus or palm require space for spreading their branches, thus a small space for these plants is out of the question. These, like other large types including citrus and banana trees or large ferns, are more suitable for office decorating. The best plants for small spaces are ivies, compact dracaenas, and succulents. Small plants look better grouped together.

To create a composition out of several similar plants use similar pots.

Blooming or green islands on tabletops and shelves add beauty and coziness to any room. Poecilophyllous (plants with multicoloured leaves) or blooming plants keep their decorative value year around. Larger decorative plants, like fichus or palm, often assume a solo role of a free-standing tree. Ivies can revive many boring spaces – diverse and sturdy, they can be both part of a composition and a decorative element in its own right.

How to Care for Your Decorative Plants Plants sold in stores are planted into a temporary transplanting soil that has to be replaced with permanent one. When selecting the planting soil make sure it suits your plant in acidity and the soil structure. Replant no later than five days after the purchase. Place the plant in its new pot away from direct sunlight to help the plant get used to its new home. Water sparsely. The new pot should be 5 to 8 cm larger than the one you brought home; do not replant into a much larger pot even if the plant will eventually grow into a huge one. The plant will not start growing until its roots have adapted to the root ball. Place some sort of drainage on the bottom of the pot before filing it with soil and do not forget that houseplants need to have a shower on a regular basis.

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Very enjoyable & cozy, filled with natural sunlight, completely renovated & beautifully maintained 3+1-bdrm, 2-full wshrms, 1600 SqFt CORNER unit with amazing unobstructed view of park. Excellent layout. Gleaming parquet floors throughout, mouldings, potlights. Nicely painted. Living room with antique scones. Beautiful custom-made European style kitchen w/KitchenAid cooktop, oven, new water filtration system. Nice breakfast area overlooks park. Large master with W/I closet & 4pc ensuite. Renovated wshrms with nice ceramic & vanities.

All closets w/organizers. Large ensuite locker & laundry.

Solarium can be used as 4th bdrm or office. Parking included. Maintenance fee includes all utilities & cable TV. Well maintained building w/excellent facilities: gym, sauna, whirlpool, outdoor swimming pool, security guard & system. Great area in demand!

BATHURST & CLARK

Large & bright CORNER unit, about 1350 SqFt, 2+1-bdrm, 2 full wshrms, in prime Thornhill location! Very clean, in excellent condition. Beautiful laminated floors throughout. Large kitchen with window & pantry. Large bedrooms. Solarium can be used as a 3rd bdrm or office. Maintenance fee includes everything! Very well maintained building with excellent facilities: gym, sauna, outdoor pool, recreation room, tennis court, 24 hrs security gate.

Asking $324,900

BATHURST & CENTRE

Luxurious Thornhill City Centre! About 700 Sq.Ft. 1-bdr+den, 1-wshr condo with breathtaking South view of Toronto.

Excellent floor plan. Laminated floors throughout, freshly painted. Open concept kitchen with granite countertop, backsplash, stainless steel appliances. Locker, parking.

Building with excellent facilities: indoor pool, sauna, gym. Steps to Promenade Mall, Wal-Mart, public transit, parks.

DIRECT:

416-889-9955 Each office is independently owned and operated

RICHMOND HILL (YONGE & BROOKSIDE)

Shows like a MODEL! $$ in upgrades! Very bright & modern, open concept, 4-bdrm + den, 4-wshr, 3700 SqFt, in excellent condition. Open foyer w/ granite floors. 9’ceilings, hardwood flrs, potlights, mouldings. Den on main floor w/French door. Large CUSTOM made kitchen with tall cabinets, granite, b/splash & S/S appliances. Fam. room w/granite mantle gas fireplace. All bdrms have ensuites and W/I closets. Master bdrm has two W/I closets & Jacuzzi. Save energy windows. Custom curtains & designer lighting.

Interlock.

Sprinkler system...& more...

BATHURST & STEELES

Exceptionally decorated, very clean & bright large 2-bdr, 2-wshr CORNER UNIT in desirable location. Excellent floor plan. Large kitchen with breakfast area & W/O to balcony. Another W/O to balcony from the living room. Beautiful laminated floors throughout. Parking included. Gym, sauna, outdoor pool. Steps to transit, shopping, schools.

Asking $299,000

HOMELIFE VICTORY REALTY INC. Brokerage 10720 Yonge St, #226, Richmond Hill, ON L4C 3C9 BUS: 905-737-0033 FAX: 905-737-3132

MARKHAM DOWNTOWN

Luxurious, bright & spacious 1-bdr, 1-wshr unit on 5th floor in a practically new condo. Beautiful terrace. Open concept. 9’ ceilings. Beautiful dark hardwood floors. Upgraded kitchen with tall cabinets, glass inserts, granite countertop, stainless steel appliances. Locker & parking. Very low maintenance fee. Excellent building with great facilities: indoor pool, gym, sauna, 24 hrs security &much more... Close to shopping, restaurants, banks, VIVA transit, Markville Mall, 404 & 407 Hwys. ALSO AVAILABLE FOR RENT.

Asking $288,000

PROMENADE CIRCLE

Luxury ROYAL PROMENADE! Large, about 1100 Sq.Ft. 2-bdr, 2-wshr condo with balcony and North-West unobstructed beautiful view.

Laminated floors throughout. Upgraded eat-in kitchen with stainless steel appliances. VERY LOW MAINTENANCE FEE includes all utilities!

Parking included. Gym, sauna, party room.

Asking $349,000

Asking $289,000

WESTON RD & MAJOR MACK

Beautiful 3+1-bdr, 3-wshr detached house, about 2100 Sq.Ft. Pride of ownership! Fully upgraded with dark hardwood floors. High ceilings. Designer modern painting. Smooth ceilings on both levels.

Upgraded vanities. Potlights inside & outside.

Family room with stone fireplace. Gorgeous kitchen with granite, ceramic b/splash, S/S appliances, gas stove. Huge master with two W/I closets. Custom 2-tier deck. Stone interlock (4 cars driveway). Main floor laundry. Central Vac system. Fully landscaped & much more...

Asking $645,000

BATHURST & RUTHERFORD RAVINE LOT!!!

Spectacular 4-bdrm, 3-wshr home, about 2900 Sq.Ft. in prestigious Lebovic Campus area!

Amazing open concept floor plan with huge family room with gas fireplace. High ceilings.

Dark hardwood floors. Upgraded kitchen with tall cabinets, granite countertop, stainless steel appliances. Double door entrance. Fantastic FINISHED WALKOUT BASEMENT. Steps to Community Center, Schools, park & other fabulous amenities.

FOR ADVERTISEMENTS CALL (416) 477-6107

RICHMOND HILL

Fabulous 5-bdrm, 3-wshr house with 2-car garage in prestigious area! Excellent floor plan. Double door entry. High ceilings. Hardwood floors.

Large family room with gas fireplace overlooks GREENBELT. Upgraded kitchen with tall cabinets, pantry, granite countertop, b/splash & W/O to large backyard. Stainless steel appliances. Master bdrm with 5-pc ensuite & walk-in closet. All bedrooms are large. Excellent area with short drive to Go station. Close to all amenities.

BATHURST & ELGIN MILLS

Absolutely stunning 4+2-bdrm, 5-wshr luxurious house in high demand area! Fully redesigned and renovated. Open concept. Brand new custom made kitchen, with granite countertop, S/S appliances, potlights & marble floors. Hardwood floors on both levels. Wrought iron stairway, granite counters in baths. Finished basement with 2-bdrms, kitchen with S/S appliances, bath & separate entrance. 2 -car garage. Too many features to list....

Asking $739,900

November 2012

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THE BEST

For most of us a fluffy, warm, and soft throw or blanket represents the idea of coziness and relaxation. This is especially true when the weather gets colder and sitting in your favourite armchair wrapped in a warm throw in front of the TV or with a good book seems to be the best pastime.

THROW ments, for example, curtains, furniture, or walls. For a room with bright vivid colours choose quiet solid colour throws.

The fabric is extremely important. The best throws for a nursery come in acrylic textiles.

Such throws are soft, warm, and light; they practically do not fade, hold their shape forever, and are resistant to dust, bacteria, and allergens. They come in a variety of colours and patterns and are extremely easy to care for.

Throws made of mixed fibres of acrylic, cotton, and rayon are also very practical, easy to care, and comfortable.

Throws are used to cover furniture, as a coverlet or a blanket. There are a couple of beloved throws in every home. Nevertheless, everything becomes old and worn, and then it’s time to go shopping for a new throw. Of course you want to make sure your new blanket will have a long life.

First of all, throws come in a rainbow of colours so make sure it fits your decor by matching one or more of its larger ele-

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For long rides, picnics, and cottage life choose a travel blanket in an acrylic and cotton blend. Pure cotton is not very practical in these circumstances because it is not durable enough and loses its looks after a few washes.

Pure wool throws have their uncontestable qualities, especially in health issues.

Wool stimulates blood circulation and relieves back pain and aches and pains in joints and muscles. It keeps your body warm and dry, absorbing sweat and neutralizing its harmful components, and lets your body breath.

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The most valuable are throws made of natural wool, not touched with fabric dyes and chemicals. Camel wool is lighter and stronger than sheep wool; it keeps warmth longer and protects from dampness and humidity. Remember that camel wool throws and blankets should not be dried in the sun. If you want to air it, take it outside in a drizzle.

Cashmere throws are soft, light, and warm, and they do not cause allergic reaction.

Best cashmere throws come from Asia and the Far East.

It is a bit more complicated to care for wool throws because they need professional dry cleaning.

Electric blankets and throws have become favourites long ago. They are resistant to humidity, compact when folded, and warm your whole body uniformly. This is the best choice for people who suffer from frequent colds or joint ailments.

Fur throws are the most expensive of all and their function is mostly decorative.

They are not easy-maintenance but they are gorgeous and luxurious-looking.

So have your pick and be warm and comfortable.

www.aahtoronto.com

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November 2012

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and send it to the dark corners of the room.

Chinese people have been using octagonal mirrors to repel negative force for many centuries.

Feng Shui apologists advise to never place a light source directly overhead, be it over the dining table or the desk because the light from a single source falls on the person in a conical shape visually cutting the person in two. It is better to shift either the light source or your position.

Yellow is considered a lucky colour that brings riches. It also invigorates and inspires hope. Red stimulates and sharpens reactions; it is the symbol of life force and energy. Blue is the colour of independence.

White is great in any decor as the colour of purity and freshness that integrates in itself all the colours of the wheel. Black should be either avoided altogether or used only for small accents.

The rule to avoid sitting with your back to the door has to be followed in any room.

Negative life force gets into the place through the doors and windows, while positive energy leaves much the same way.

FENg SHUI IN ACTION

Here are just a few guidelines that, according to the ancient Chinese theory of Feng Shui may help attract luck in love, family life, business, and career, multiply fame and fortune, and bring more positive life force into your home.

Feng Shui is a Chinese system of geomancy believed to use the laws of both Heaven and Earth to help one improve life by receiving positive qi that protects a person from negative influences. How qi force moves throughout your home depends on many factors, including light, proportions, materials, sounds, and smells, with the maximum

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effect achieved when a few of these factors are combined.

Because light is closely associated with the fire element, its influence is extremely important. Natural light is the best while luminescent lights are not welcome in the teaching of Feng Shui because it is considered cold and dead.

Replace heavy curtains with lightweight sheers. Heavy drapery can be used in the bedroom to muffle too bright a daylight.

Mirrors can serve as light diffusers. A mirror placed by the window will reflect light

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Do not place your bed opposite the door to avoid the depletion of positive life force.

Do not use your bedroom as office space because two different kinds of energy will collide annihilating each other.

The kitchen and dining room tables should be shifted away from opposite the door to avoid your riches going out of the house.

As per Feng Shui, protruding corners, open shelves, and sharp objects create negative life force. Place your furniture in such a way that its corners do not point to you when you are working at your desk, relax on the sofa, or lying in your bed.

Feng Shui believers insist that furniture in rounded shapes promotes peace in the house. If your kitchen shelves are exposed use round containers for your bulk foods.

Exposed ceiling beams over the bed also create negative influence that may lead to family arguments.

Feng Shui is a lot of things: the light that falls from the window at a certain angle, a well aired-out room, a clean house, correctly painted walls, natural materials, and many other things that help positive life force circulate freely in your home.

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ORIT’S DRAPERIES & MORE Exclusive curtains and draperies Decorative covers and pillows Bed sheets and much more Old drapery renewal Large selection of draperies, fabrics and accessories from Europe Interior and fashion designer with 20 years of experience in Israel, Canada and America

416-400-2403 Svetlana

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November 2012

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Draping

the Holiday Season As the seasons change and the fall rolls along, there seems to be an avalanche of holidays coming our way. Recently, we celebrated Thanksgiving. Many of us are now looking forward to other holidays. Christmas, Hanukkah, Eid Al-Adha, and Kwanzaa are just some of the holidays that will bring family and friends together before New Year’s Eve when we bid adieu to the old year and welcome in the new one. With holidays comes preparation. Lots of time will be spent shopping for table setting and glassware and, most importantly, the ingredients for all the mouth-watering delicacies, among a whole array of dishes.

But preparation is not just about the food; we are equally obsessed with how our homes will appear to our guests. As much as we’d love to purchase new pieces of furniture to spice up the living or dining rooms, buying new furniture is a luxury we can’t always afford. So what is the alternative? How do we stretch the buck?

Well, we could consider re-painting or paint touch-ups and, possibly, sprucing up furniture by re-upholstering or re-staining. But that’s a lot of work and we have so little time these days.

The easiest, quickest, and proven way to transform the look of a room is to add new window treatments.

I can hear you thinking that there is so much to consider when choosing draperies. Allow me to explain: if nothing else, your drapery must complement or accentuate the best features of the room.

It is no surprise that colour is a primary consideration. You need not do this alone: your drapery consultant will assist you by providing you with variations of hues and tones that add subtle changes to the room in keeping with the existing furniture, the size of the room, and, of course, the colour of the paint or the design of the wallpaper. So hiring a qualified, experienced drapery consultant is another very important decision. This consultant will save you time and money and make the process enjoyable and pleasant.

The good thing about custom-made draperies is the twin benefit of relevance and fit. Your drapery consultant will help you to

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choose fabric and lining that fit the needs of the room you wish to decorate. Some rooms require sheer, full-length whimsical curtains, while other invite heavy, stationery side panels that complement existing wooden shutters. Still yet, there is the very important issue of privacy: some rooms need drapery to block out light and add romance. And some rooms have very large windows that should really not be blocked, so custom-made panels are the most relevant.

As you convey your needs, a consultant will provide you with design ideas, choices of fabric, hardware, accessories, and installation details. You’ll find the entire process to be fun and easy. So, you’ll want to do it all over again – in another room, of course.

So first things first: decide on your budget at the outset, and then invite a consultant who will add glamour and chic that reflect your personality and lifestyle. Plan ahead and … enjoy the holidays.

Elegant Drapery provides full range of Window Treatment services – from consultation to design, from fabrication to installation.

We can transform your space on a budget!

Visit

www.elegantdrapery.ca

for more details.

For a free - in-home estimate please call 416-825-6714

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CEILING AND WALL

DECORATIVE FINISHING ► no more stucco ► covers cracks ► eliminates water damage ► replaces drywall ► improves acoustics ► no maintenance

T 416-663-1708 F 416-663-1707 W www.universalceiling.com 20 Magnetic Dr, Unit 2 │ Toronto, ON, M3J 2C4

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November 2012

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LET’S TALK‌ TRASH An uncovered trash container or one not placed in a special recess is way behind us now as well as containers with a manually operated lid. A model with a swinging lid that opens at a merest touch is much better, as well as the one where the lid opens by a pedal.

Of course the latter is convenient only when it is placed in a corner.

If there is no wall behind it, the container will slide away every time you press the pedal.

Containers with a pedal are made of stainless steel and come in chrome; they

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can be shiny, matte, or painted into various hues.

SORTING YOUR TRASH For sorting that has become an established fact of our urban life nowadays, people use either several containers or a divided one.

Sorting your trash into different places is not only the matter of municipal laws but also a question of your comfort. Food waste usually smells, ferments, and rots. So, for your own comfort, it is advisable to use the smallest container or compartment for food waste and take it out as often as possible. Paper and plastic scraps do not affect your quality of life, so they can stay in their proper container until the next garbage pick-up day.

e-mail: aahtoronto@gmail.com

A BUILT-IN CONTAINER This kind is door-mounted or can be wheeled out. To prevent the trash in such container from smelling up the kitchen it is supplied with a special tightening layer.

Several containers mounted on the same moveable system allow trash sorting.

THE ELECTRICAL GARBAGE DISPOSAL This device partially replaces the trashcan.

They are great for pulverizing peels, shells, small bones, cigarette butts and paper napkins but of course most models cannot manage large bones and none of them processes non-food waste. On the other head, non-food scraps do not have the unpleasant odor we want to avoid in our kitchen.

www.aahtoronto.com

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17

Biography

Adi Zur Mixed Media (905) 886-6984 adizur@rogers.com www.adizurart.com, www.adizurart.ca

Publications - “Featured Artists Volume II” 2011 - “International Contemporary Artists” April, 2011 - “International Dictionary of Artists” Vol. I, 2011 - “International Contemporary Artists” Vol. IV, 2012 Exhibitions

ARTIST STATEMENT My paintings reflect my interest in ancient knowledge. I am moved by the notion of a “connector” — an umbilical cord — which joins us to knowledge harnessed in the past and propels us into the future. It is the cord, the connecting lines, that provides impetus for the artwork I develop.

issue ART ALL ABOUT HOME 18 ART

I was born in Tel-Aviv, Israel. I studied philosophy at the University of Tel-Aviv and studied art after my graduation before becoming an art teacher for 12 years. In 1991 I moved to Toronto with my family. Here I studied at OCAD in the faculty of Drawing and Painting and graduated with an Honours degree. Since then I have been a fulltime artist, and spend most of my days in my studio while showcasing my works at various galleries.

issue

2013 THE ARTIST PROJECT 2013, FEBRUARY 21 ­– 24 AT THE EXHIBITION PLACE, TORONTO 2012 Rainbow 2012 - An International Miniature Art Project - July 28 - Aug. 31, 2012, INDEXG Toronto 2012 The Artist Project, Toronto

ART issue ART issue e-mail: aahtoronto@gmail.com

2011-2012 Gallery 1313 – First Annual Emerging Artists, Toronto 2011 Chabot Fine Art Gallery, Rhode Island, USA, International Juried Painting Competition, “Creating Energy”. Won Honourable Mention Award.

2011 Thornhill Visual Artists Tour, Toronto 2011 The Artist Project, Juried Exhibition, Toronto 2010 Saatchi Gallery London, England, Winner On-line Showdown Competition, painting hanging in Saatchi Gallery, London 2010 OSA – Juried Exhibition, Toronto 2010 Thornhill Visual Artists Tour, Toronto 2010 The Artist Project, Juried Exhibition, Toronto 2009 Florence Biennale, Juried Exhibition Italy 2009 Nuit Blanche –Vis-à-vis Juried Exhibition, Arta Gallery Toronto 2009 Arta Gallery (Distillery District) Toronto 2009 Vaughan Juried Exhibition –an art integration project Toronto 2008 Gallery 133, Toronto and many more

ART issue

ART issue www.aahtoronto.com

Jacob Grinberg This photography ART will adorn your home or office www.jgphotographs.com

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19

WILL VINYL WINDOWS LAST? They don’t have the track record of wood windows, but chosen and installed with care, modern vinyl products can compete.

Strewn all across North American, homes that are more than 100 years old still have their original double hung windows. Although long lived, wood windows have some drawbacks. They need to be repainted regularly (a complicated chore because old layers of paint usually contain lead), they have energy-wasting single glazing, and they are difficult to seal against air leaks.

repainted. These advantages are largely responsible for vinyl windows’ share of the North American window market, which has grown from 24% in 1990 to about 66% in 2010.

Because of these drawbacks, many homeowners have abandoned their historic windows in favour of double-glazed vinyl replacement windows. The advantages of vinyl windows are fairly appealing. They are less expensive than wood, don’t absorb moisture, don’t rot, and don’t need to be

Vinyl windows do, however, have drawbacks. They are difficult to repair, they are available in a limited number of colours that can’t be repainted as styles change; and, according to consumer report tests, the average vinyl window leaks more air than the average fibreglass or wood window.

With so many houses now being fitted with vinyl windows, a burning question is beginning to surface: How will these modern windows look and perform when today’s homes become historic? Manufacturer’s Warranties are driven by marketing rather than logic, and window experts are cautious with their predictions. The relatively short 40-year history of vinyl windows provides only limited data and our need for long-lived windows must be balanced against practical considerations, including the ever-changing demands of consumers, building codes, and energy guidelines.

If vinyl windows are specified for a project, the best option is to choose a top quality model and have it installed professionally in order to ensure impeccable fit.

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Peter Khatami - Peter is Senior Project Manager and Co-Owner of Nostco Construction, a Design/Build company serving residential and commercial clients throughout the GTA. Peter prides himself in working tirelessly on his clients’ behalf to bring vision to construction reality.

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21

OPEN THE DOOR INTO DESIGN We love Canada and we are wary of criticizing it but there are times when you just cannot avoid it. We live a happy and quiet life here - but such calm and stability often lead to certain conservatism in various areas.

Look at the construction and design industries as an example. The technologies used in them are outdated; the finishing materials impend design ideas and seem to be stagnating at the level of the ‘70s and ‘80s.

Europe has long been ahead of the New World in the range of finishes, accessories, furniture, and decor.

Look at the interior doors within your home.

I am almost sure that, no matter whether you reside in a small basic townhouse or a luxurious million-dollar abode, the doors inside it all look the same: made of plywood and painted white, with no individuality about them. If you are lucky, your house has some French doors at most.

How about building materials? Anything interesting there? Let’s stop by the nearest Home Depot store. Wow! What a selection!

Here, this is the doors department. Well, looks like the variety and abundance do not stretch to this department. Not many choices here unless you are a lover of the country style in decor and want to decorate your city home in the style of an after-WW2 cottage.

Nevertheless, not many of us realize that interior doors are a very important decorating element. Not only it carries the protective function against noise and light, odors and dust, - it supports the whole decor structure of the room. What can be more beautiful and harmonious than high-quality doors

that match floors and furniture? They create a special atmosphere and become an integral part of the whole decor.

We buy expensive Italian-made leather furniture but leave the cheap and primitive door intact – and then feel the lack of harmony and contradiction in styles. It looks like a ballet dancer wearing rubber boots or a pickle accompanying a snifter of quality French cognac.

But don’t worry - things are not as bad as they look. Our Furniture salon offers you a wide choice of European style interior doors in the widest variety of colours, textures, and designs. Now you have a chance to buy doors that match your style and create real harmony in your living space.

Our capable associates will help you select the right door according to your taste and budget, and your dwelling will drastically change its look and will not seem dreary and boring.

Should you still be in doubt as to the ability of new interior doors to completely transform the look of your home, simply visit the Our Furniture salon - and you will be converted!

OUR FURNITURE SALON is located at 1750 Steeles Ave. west, Unit 10 & 11, Concord, ON L4K 2L7.

Tel. (905) 760-9468 www.NashaMebel.com

Designers on Door Fashion: Of course, there is such thing as door fashion, not unlike high fashion. Certain trends emerge in the design world regarding the look of the connecting doors. We strive to give the door structures a unique and exclusive look and use the best materials and fittings. Luxurious finishes of expensive woods like oak, pine, or walnut, replace the anonymity of white plywood. Connecting doors have become a basic and defining decor element. Today’s fashion trends dictate their own rules but they leave enough space for the boldest wishes and non-standard solutions.

decorations; and hi-tech will be complemented by doors with metal inserts.

Interior doors have to match the decor of the place. Doors with smooth surface are best for the dwelling decorated in modern style; baroque rooms require natural wood doors with carved

Remember also that replacing your interior doors is not an expense but an investment because, should you decide to sell your place, no potential buyer will stay unmoved by such beauty.

Any design ideas may be implemented by the use of modern and trendy interior doors. The variety they come in helps to achieve any decorating style.

Doors with glass inserts are very popular.

Glass inserts come in various shapes and sizes thus facilitating a wide choice of final results. Glass can be tinted in various shades to achieve the stained glass effect, or etched with different shapes. The door glass may come in matte, mirror, or colour finish.

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23

What Are the

Basic Principles of Design?

DESIGN : to conceive and plan out in the mind; to have as a purpose; to devise for a specific function or end.

The Merriam-Webster Dictionary

The basic rules of proportion and scale are unchanging. They are reinterpreted according to the needs of the time. I like simplicity and I believe in restraint.

Above all, there should be harmony-of proportion, line, color, and feeling. The most important element in decorating is the relationship between objects- in size, form, texture, color, and meaning.

None of these is in good taste in itself but only in relationship to where it has been placed and what purpose it is to serve.

Eleanor McMillen Brown

Remember that a functional and comfortable design is visually more appealing; using and combining design elements such as space, form, light, line, texture and color will bring out the character of your home. An in-depth analysis of each of these elements would go beyond the scope of this article, for now let us just say that they are an integral part of the environment where we live.

Space - we are surrounded by it, and although we cannot change its physical shape, we can change the functional aspects of it; Form - is a physical element that has shape and substance; e.g. the shape of your room or of your furniture;

Light - we cannot touch it, but without it we would not be able to enjoy and perform the different tasks in our lives, it is mood- and ambience-related;

Line - can add strong or subtle characteristics to your room; the eye will follow vertical or horizontal dynamics of the room; Color - color is the most prevalent element in the space and your choice of color is very important, it can dramatically affect the perception of your space.

These elements are the essential components of design and the principles of design relate to how they combine together to bring your vision to life.

The basic principles of design can be broken down into the following components: scale and proportion, balance, rhythm, emphasis and harmony.

Scale and Proportion – is the spatial relation of objects to each other and their environment.

Texture - everything around us has a surface, smooth or rough, shiny or matte; it’s not only tactile, but visual as well;

Whether you are renovating or designing your first (or... third) apartment or house, it is always very exciting, challenging and sometimes could be a bit stressful. But once you know the “rules”, you would feel more confident to tackle the task and have a rewarding experience at the end.

So...Where Do You Start?

You can begin the process by forming an idea or mental image of “What if...?” And you don’t need to worry about finishing the entire space at once. One room at a time or even a small nook at a time, if that is what motivates you to keep going. A floor plan would be a great help, not only to visualize your space, but also to keep track of the progress of your project all the way through.

For example, the way furnishings relate to each other and to the space they are in, and the way texture and pattern define the scale of furniture or accessories used relative to the overall size of the room. This means that if you have a small delicate armchair, you should never put in a room that is disproportionately large or has ceilings above average height; the dining chairs should be well proportioned not only in relation to the dining table, but also to the people that will be using them. You can downsize a wall unit that covers the entire wall of a

It’s always useful to keep this in mind how your lifestyle preferences, activities, budget, expectations and the extent of everyday care required will affect your design criteria and the people who live with you.

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Harmony – is unifying all forms, colors, and textures among furnishings and arrangements.

room by breaking it down into smaller-size shelves decorated with various accessories and plants.

Balance – is the visual “weight” distribution to create interest and give the space a comfortable feel. Large size has a greater visual weight than small size; warm, bright colors will always look bigger and more powerful compared to cooler ones; rough, busy textures can be played against smooth and plain ones, brightly lit areas against dim ones – these are the subtle ways of creating balance. Architectural details such as fireplaces, pillars, windows have visual weight; natural and artificial light can have an impact on the balance of the space as well. To visualize better how to balance your space, use scotch tape and old newspapers to make an area rug for your room.

If it is a square room, lay down the “area rug” in the center, and if it’s an L-shape room, center two “area rugs” in each portion of the space. The outlines are your guidelines for your furnishings. Balance also can be symmetrical, asymmetrical and radial.

Rhythm – is the repetition of patterns in materials, objects and placements.

Rhythm in design is about the visual repetition of patterns, shapes, color, texture and arrangements. A circular shape of a coffee table will be reprised by a circular shape of a planter; a pillar at one end will be exactly

the same on the other end; pillows on the couch will match the fabric of an armchair.

Rhythm greatly depends on balance and continuity. Be careful not to overdo with too much repetition, it can get monotonous.

Interrupt the pattern with empty spaces, a grouping of floor vases in the corner, a freestanding sculpture or a plant. Variety is essential, to keep rhythm exciting and active Emphasis – is establishing a focal point in your space.

Your home may have a built-in fireplace, in which case you can use the fireplace as a focal point to center a sitting arrangement around it, or hanging an artwork above it.

The mantel could function as a wonderful visual display for one of your collections, or it can be painted a color that would be in contrast to the walls. If the fireplace happens to be an eyesore for you, then you may want to emphasise a beautiful rug or the wild pattern on a chair. Eye-popping accessories or a flower arrangement will divert or redirect emphasis.

Harmony is easy to achieve when the design elements – space, form, light, line, texture and color – are part of your creative process and are consistent with the look of your furnishings and arrangements. It does not mean that you have to be stuck in “sameness.” Look for unity and variety that complement each other: contours of objects, such as globe lights in the kitchen, will complement a round kitchen table. Natural materials, such as stone, glass, metal, leather, fur, ceramics, have different textures, but they speak the same “language.”

There is no set of rules to be followed religiously. Trust yourself more, use your intuition and start small; it will be easier emotionally as well as financially. Gather all the things you like: fabric samples, pictures, paint chips, something from your closet because you like the color and texture, or pebbles from the beach from your vacation.

Your space is all about your personality.

Do not let anyone pressure or discourage you, hold on to your idea of “What if...?”

Marina Orlova ARIDO, IDC

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SOLAR ENERGY LIFE’S ENERGY Would you like to stop paying for electricity?

No matter how unreal this idea sounds, it is an attainable goal. Moreover, it is completely legal. Now that we have your full attention, we are going to discuss the way of implementing this idea into our life – life that is unimaginable without electricity.

duction. Thus, making investments in solar energy financially beneficial.As of today, the level of societal development is defined, to a great extent, by country’s concerns for the environment and its investment into building a scientific and technical foundation for support and development of the alternative energy sources. The most progressive countries – Germany, for instance – have the leading amount of energy derived from non-traditional sources.

We wake up to an electrical alarm clock and go to sleep accompanied by a soft murmur of a dishwasher. What is the source of this vital energy? Our electricity is derived from fossil fuels. For the last couple of centuries humanity has pumped out and scraped out of the bowels of the earth everything that has been forming there for millions of years. The fight to retain control over depleting natural resources has been getting ever-deadlier pulling many countries into confrontations and wars.

The supplies of oil and natural gas are rapidly coming to an end, while there are natural renewable and low-cost energy sources that have no effect on the environment and give us our own unlimited supply of electricity independent of central power networks. These are geothermal, biofuel, wind, and solar energy sources. They are part of our life. All we need to do is to learn how to harness these energy sources and make them work for us.

Solar energy is the most rapidly growing industry in the area of the renewable energy sources (RES). Since the beginning of time humans knew that the power of sunlight gives life to everything on Earth. The Sun is one of the most accessible sources of renewable energy.

There are various program of the same kind in North America. The province of Ontario is a recognized leader in the Canadian solar energy industry. Ontario’s Feed-in Tariff program (FIT) provides profitable tariffs and defines rules, rates, and contracts for the solar energy producers, stipulates specifications for solar energy, and encourages consolidation of the production base for local solar equipment.

Company Logitest Solar under the leadership of a group of young enthusiasts of “clean” energy, which has become one of the leaders of the solar power industry in the province, is willing to share with our readers its knowledge, ideas, and experiences in the area of implementation of solar energy into Ontarians’ everyday life. Logitest Solar will help you realize that the use of solar energy is not just a technological issue - it is also the result of increased awareness of the need to treat our environment with care and respect.

It is hard to overestimate the advantages of solar energy: Solar energy is infinite. Our Sun is in the middle of its lifecycle and will stay active for billions of years to come; The amount of energy produced by sunlight is tremendous.

Within twenty minutes the Sun sends to Earth enough energy to satisfy the needs of humanity for the whole year;

Logitest Solar Phone: 1-888-382-4779 Fax: (905) 850-8405 E-mail: info@logitestsolar.ca Address: 180 Trowers Road, Unit 28 Woodbridge, ON L4L 8A6

Solar energy is accessible practically everywhere, and the method of its production involves minimal losses due to transportation because it is possible to produce it at the point of its consumption; The process of solar power generation has no carbon footprint.

Solar energy gives its user full independence – you will receive high-quality electrical power independently of the existing networks’ quality; Countries around the world have introduced renewable energy support programs which provide the incentives for the owners of solar energy systems to encourage the development of solar power pro-

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e-mail: aahtoronto@gmail.com

ww

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Breathtaking Kitchen!

Combine pure elegance, exquisite marble over contrasting dark ebony stained island, sparkling crystal chandelier, crown moulding, massive hood range as empowering focal point, stunning mosaic backsplash, modern sinks and industrial Italian chrome faucets all contribute in making this kitchen a masterpiece that is just beautiful to look at, extremely functional and incredibly inspiring to cook in !!

What a dream come true...

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ROYAL I N T E R I O R S Elegant & A ordable designs that suit your lifestyle November 2012

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27

APPLIANCES: EXPENSIVE VS. INEXPENSIVE

They differ in several categories, which are enumerated below.

1. Quality of materials and assembly; durability.

More expensive appliances are made with costlier materials and parts. Various bear-

ings, the motor, the compressor, the thickness of stainless steel, enamel, rubber, glass, and other parameters may be created to last longer or withstand heavier workloads.

Try to avoid inexpensive appliances with high technical characteristics – for example, a $700 washer with a 1400 revolu-

tions wringer cycle. Such a machine will not last long because of the obvious disparity between the quality of its materials and parts and its technical characteristics.

Expensive appliances are usually made to serve fifteen years of daily use while inexpensive ones, seven to eight years. What it means is that the materials and parts involved should keep their characteristics for said length of time.

2. Efficiency.

Expensive appliances are considerably more efficient than their inexpensive counterparts are. For example, in washers the efficiency translates first of all into decreased water use for laundering and rinsing cycles thus reducing the consumption of power needed to heat the water as well as a lower use of detergent because higher amounts of water require higher amounts of detergent. A good washing machine can lower the use of detergent by as much as 30%. Calculate the savings in your family budget during the fifteen years of the device use!

3. Functionality.

Each appliance is supplied with a standard set of functions. Besides, expensive models usually possess additional functions that may not be used on a regular basis but add convenience when needed.

4. Technical characteristics.

These are usually higher for expensive appliances.

5. A price markup for a well-known brand.

6. The country of assembly.

Quality and, as a result, cost of assembly differs from one country to the next. Americans, for example, evaluate home appliances on the scale of 0 to 5 with regard to the country of assembly as follows: Japan.............................................................................5.0 Germany......................................................................4.9 Sweden........................................................................4.7 Finland..........................................................................4.6 USA.................................................................................4.6 England........................................................................3.9 Italy..................................................................................3.4 France............................................................................3.0 Spain..............................................................................2.8 Poland...........................................................................2.6 Russia.............................................................................2.3 Hong Kong.................................................................2.1 Turkey.............................................................................1.8 China..............................................................................1.7

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Quality guaranteed The best prices

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Alex’s Interior and Upholstery Custom made

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FREE Special Report From Alexey Alekseev Reveals

29 Essential Tips That Get Homes Sold Fast (And For Top Dollar) The homeseller realized he was trapped. There was absolutely nothing he could do. Without the benefit of adequate preparation and thorough homework, the price he had negotiated for his home sale was lower than he should have received—thousands of dollars lower.

In all the years REALTOR® Alexey Alekseev has been helping area residents with their home sales, he’s run into a surprising number of sellers in similar predicaments. But to Alexey’s concern, when it comes to unfortunate sellers like the one above, he can’t help after the fact—then it’s too late.

Alexey’s Free Special Report Alexey understands all too well

how vital a role the information and preparation he provides his clients really is. Information is the seller’s best friend and most important ally. That’s why Alexey decided to put together a special report to help prospective home sellers. This special report, entitled “29 Essential Tips That Get Homes Sold Fast—And For Top Dollar,” is provided free, as a community service.

What You Will Learn Alexey’s special report, “29 Essential Tips That Get Homes Sold Fast—And For Top Dollar,” provides 29 important things you should understand before you put your home on the market. It’ll give you information that will help ensure you are the most prepared seller you can be—both mentally and emotionally.

Call 24 hours a day and order your FREE special report!

647/693-7733 Simply dial ext. 100 for recorded message and info on how to order. It’s that easy.

What To Do—And Not To Do In this special report Alexey shares many of the tips that professionals utilize to help maximize a home’s potential and actual worth—and most importantly help you drive up the selling price of your home. You’ll learn many important things you need to do, but more critical may be the things it tells you not to do—things that could cost you dearly at the negotiating table. You’ll find out how your emotional state has everything to do with how well your home sale turns out.

This report is essential reading for any serious home seller.

Get Your Special Report Before you sell your home, call Alexey Alekseev for your free special report and read it carefully. You’ll be glad you did.

Homelife\Cimerman Real Estate Ltd., Brokerage* 28 Drewry ave• Toronto, ON M2M 1C8 *independently owned & operated