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Sophisticated Bathrooms
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S O P H I S T I C AT E D B AT H R O O M S 12
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Bathroom Remodeling on Any Budget It’s a balance between good design, fixtures and space. By Heidi Doerfert
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Updating Your Living Space With the right planning and support, your project can be stress free. By Gabrielle Saveri
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Bathroom Elegance Furniture Guild creates the antiques of tomorrow for today's discriminating homeowner. By Lisa Winer
B UILD I T G REEN 14 Water Efficiency in Your Bathroom Save water, save money, protect our watersheds. By Annette Hartsfield
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Bathroom Automation Control your bathroom environment with a value-based home automation system. By Stuart Lee
NKBA 18 Creating Personal Space Ideas to turn your master bedroom and bath into your own personal retreat. By Kelly Morisseau, CMKBD, CID
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Your Private Sanctuary Give your master bedroom a low-cost high-impact makeover. By Deborah Burstyn
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June/July 2010 THM South Bay/Silicon Valley
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ideas and resources for your home
22
BayArea.com Search the Bay Area’s ultimate resource guide 22
for more articles
Time to Remodel In this economy, quality and experience actually saves you money on your remodel. By Deborah Burstyn
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of interest, links to more
Short on Space? Wallbeds help homeowners maximize space by making rooms multifunctional. By Xu Bei Shi
Designing Your Deck The many surfaces for today’s decks. www.todayshomebayarea.com/feature
resources and web sites, and
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A Green Painting Solution
professionals
A unique ceramic coating system is the new painting option. By Lisa Winer
28
who can help
Unique Backyards Locally designed and manufactured garden ornaments. By Xu Bei Shi
you with all your home projects.
30
The Perfect Spa Experience the health benefits while relaxing. By Steve Gandy
Moving Outdoors Casual furniture provides comfort and style. www.todayshomebayarea.com/glosterfurniture
28
Outdoor Eating Adventures Exploding demand for outdoor kitchens. www.todayshomebayarea.com/ccidc
Luxury Bath on a Budget 6 Tips to creating a stunning yet economical bathroom. www.todayshomebayarea.com/nkba
Find more great ideas and resources for your home on
TodaysHomeBayArea.com ON THE COVER Photo: Anbrosia bath from Pearl Baths. Pearl Baths (www.pearlbaths.com). TODAYSHOMEBayArea.com
Post your company information @ TodaysHomeBayArea.com! Call 925.659.6200 or e-mail Jeff@THmag.com for more information. South Bay/Silicon Valley THM June/July 2010
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Volume 12, Issue 3 • June/July 2010
The Bay Area’s best resource for your lifestyle at home. PUBLISHER
Steven Gandy ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER
Jeff Curry FEATURE WRITERS
Deborah Burstyn Heidi Doefert Steven Gandy Annette Hartsfield Stuart Lee Kelly Morisseau Gabrielle Saveri Xu Bei Shi Lisa Winer ART DIRECTOR
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Today’s Home has openings for parttime Sales and Marketing Representatives Work from home, flexible schedule, competitive earning potential Please e-mail resumes to Jeff@THmag.com. 6
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Bathroom Remodeling on any Budget It’s a balance between good design, fixtures and space. HEIDI DOERFERT
OU KNOW IT’S TIME TO TAKE ACTION when you’re watching one of those home improvement shows and the BEFORE photos of a bathroom remodel look better than yours! Outdated and unattractive amenities are no way to start and end your day. Whether your space needs a shot in the arm or a complete facelift, the transformation is within your reach.
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$ Bathroom Botox® You want to give your bathroom new life but don’t want the hassle or expense of a big remodel? Think about a mini-facelift. By keeping your existing layout and changing out a few key items you can really bring your bath back to the future. Rejuvenate your powder room with new paint and fixtures. According to HGTV.com, hot trends are eco-friendly (think organic cotton towels and energy-efficient, table-top lighting); watercolor hues like turquoise and lush green; and brushed nickel faucets and accessories. Jim Kabel, at Case Handyman and Remodeling Services in San Jose explains that it can be as simple as swapping out towel bars and lighting fixtures but you may want to think about replacing that old toilet, too! “Custom touches like removing the medicine
cabinet and filling in the wall niche and replacing the shower door with a pretty curtain or a new door in a satin nickel finish gives an immediate update.” Simple and low-cost bath projects can really refresh the space and give it new life and enjoyment,” says Jim. $$ Bathroom Revamp If your space needs a lot more help than just swapping out a few
things, it’s time to talk to a contractor. Perhaps you’re ready to trade in that tiny, pre-fab shower stall for a walk-in one fit for a spa. And, the 1970s called and they want their vanity back! To cut costs, consider keeping the main elements: tub, shower and toilet in the same location so the plumbing doesn’t have to be moved. But, if your floor plan is so dated it doesn’t function well, a fresh layout may be just what the doctor ordered. A trip to The Plumbery can provide endless inspiration. With locations in Dublin and Redwood City, it’s easy to visit one of their 12,000 square foot showrooms. From tubs and shower enclosures to faucets and fixtures The Plumbery is a one-stop shop for your bathroom project. “We’re seeing a move toward the contemporary,”
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says Sheryl Doyle. “Homeowners are desiring a spa-like feel. Rain shower heads, body sprayers, massagers and steam units make your morning shower luxurious.” Sheryl says espresso-toned vanities, glass mosaic accent tiles, brushed and polished nickel and even chrome are en vogue. Sheryl also points out that in this economy people are choosing to stay put and put their hard-earned dollars into creating the space they desire. Jim Kabel says this “pull and replace” type of bathroom remodel is by far their most common job. A client in the Almaden Valley area of San Jose wanted new life to his well-worn bathroom. Case met the homeowner’s desires with a new maple vanity finished in rich nutmeg and topped with Kodiak Brown cultured granite and clean, modern chrome fixtures. “We replaced the standard tub with a spa tub and shower combo with shower body sprays and ceiling mounted shower head. Finishing touches included a new light fixture above the vanity and a coordinating wall cabinet above the toilet for linen storage. If leaving everything in its place doesn’t fix how your space functions, it may be time for some tear out. It can be as simple as moving the location of the vanity or more involved by borrowing some extra space from the closet. $$$ Bathroom Overhaul It is finally time. You’re done fighting with your spouse for space over your single-sink vanity. You want a master bath retreat with all the bells and whistles. This is the most complex type of bath remodel and requires design and architectural expertise. You want to make sure the addition blends with the existing style, character, and layout of the home. When embarking on this type of remodel, working with an experienced contractor is a must to ensure proper layout and building code compliances. When homeowners in the Willow Glen area were ready for an overhaul, they turned to Case. The San Jose couple dreamed of transforming their 40-year-old bedroom into a master suite and bathroom. Case created more space without completely reframing the existing roof and stayed within property setbacks. Additional space was added at the back of the house and Case’s team of skilled carpenters and craftsmen produced a custom space with an open, contemporary feel. Working with well-qualified professionals for a bathroom remodel can bring together the capabilities needed for a successful outcome,” explains Jim. THM
Photo: Case Handyman & Remodeling
BY
TODAYSHOMEBayArea.com
[ S O P H I S T I C A T E D
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RES OUR CES Case Handyman Remodeling 408-323-5300 www.sanjose.caseremodeling.com S.E.A. Construction, Inc. 650-287-4202 www.seaconstruction.com Splashworks 408-279-5202 www.splashworks.com Ric’s Kitchen and Bath 510-733-5543 www.Rics-Kitchen-Bath.com The Plumbery 925-829-1234 www.plumbery.com
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Updating Your Living Space With the right planning and support, your project can be stress free. BY
GABRIELLE SAVERI
F YOU’RE A HOMEOWNER LIVING IN THE SOUTH BAY, and you’re looking to remodeling your home instead of spending large amounts of cash on building or buying a new one, you might want to check out San Jose-based Case Handyman Remodeling. Started in January, 2005 as a franchise of Bethesda-based Case Design and Remodeling, the nation’s largest full-service franchise remodeling company, Case Handyman Remodeling offers a wide variety of services including basic home repairs, cosmetic fixes and living space renovations, but above all, specializes in kitchen and bathroom remodels. “That’s our sweet spot,” says owner Jim Kabel, who worked 25 years in the high-tech business but retired to start Case when he got frustrated with the lack of local contractor interest and capability in doing smaller projects at his home. Case prides itself on quality work and optimal customer service— working closely with clients from the moment they sit down to discuss their more complex project through the use of a “planning agreement,” —a stand-alone agreement which lays out the scope of the remodeling project, with the specific details to be defined—rather than a standard bidding contract that most contractors use. “We primarily use it for remodels with lots of details—kitchens, larger baths, and additions but it’s not a construction contract,” says Kabel. “Instead, working closely with the homeowner, they decide what the scope of the project is going to be within a budget range and we design to those goals. We take exiting
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measurements, produce several layout options, help the client choose a design, refine the design, and then work with them to choose finishes—the granite, cabinets, fixtures, or whatever finish details are required to complete the design within budget,” he explains. At that point, the client can JOIN US FOR A FREE 2 HOUR SEMINAR! decide if they want to move You’ll learn about the latest kitchen and bath forward with the project, or trends, three levels of remodeling, setting increase or decrease the budget timeframe for project completion, how to live for the project if they do continue. through a remodeling project and setting a Only at that point is a formal realistic budget. contract signed. “At the end of this process, we’ve designed Saturday, June 26th • 10 am to 12 noon exactly what will be built with Saturday, July 24th • 10 am to 12 noon detail drawings, what materials Saturday, August 28th • 10 am to 12 noon will be used, and how much 6155 Almaden Expressway, #400 • San Jose it’s going to cost before the Space is limited, so reserve yours today. homeowner commits to RSVP (408) 323-5300 construction,” explains Kabel. This eliminates misunderstandings and minimizes change orders after the project is started, which can be costly and delay the schedule. Case offers a staff of lead carpenters, a dedicated project manager, professional handymen, along with an in-house certified interior design, who can work with a client on a project from start to finish. The cost for the preliminary planning agreement service is $500-$3000 depending on the project size and complexity. “We’re working with a design-build model, so in that, we’re getting a smaller retainer up front compared to what an architect or designer might charge to design the project,” says Kabel. In a recent project, a couple who split their time between two cities decided to remodel their master bathroom in a home located in Los Gatos.
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“It was a high-end project, costing around $70,000,” says Mike Brennan, Remodeling Consultant on the project for Case. “The home was an 80’s California-style house, typical two-stories, with stucco,” he explains. The client’s complaint was that the bathroom was outdated. “It had a walk-in closet inside, typical walk-through with a single door, double vanity on the left, mirrored closet doors, a walk-in tub/shower/ toilet arrangement. It was just as stock as you could get,” he explains. According to Brennan, the couple was unhappy with their bathroom because it “just wasn’t very inviting.” The area was compartmentalized and storage wasn’t efficient for clothes. After meeting with his client, Brennan drew up a planning agreement and took her out shopping for all the necessities for the new bathroom. After agreement that the budget was realistic, a formal contract was signed and Case began remodeling the home. “We blew out everything, opened all the walls, and captured space from an adjacent bedroom that adjoined the room. We expanded the space significantly, raised the ceiling, added a jetted tub and put in a large 4 x 5 shower with all the bells and whistles. We enlarged a window over the toilet,” Brennan explains. The client was extremely pleased with the results, and ended up remodeling two other bathrooms, along with other rooms throughout the house. “We were able to tackle a whole bunch of projects at the same time,” says Brennan. Thanks to the use of the planning agreement process, the job went smoothly: “Without stress, we were able to move onto the construction phase and get it all built.” For more information, contact Case Handyman and Remodeling, 6155 Almaden Expressway, Suite 400, San Jose. Telephone (408) 323-5300, www.SanJose.CaseRemodeling.com. THM
And he has every reason to celebrate. He hired Case, the area’s most respected residential remodeling company. Whether your bathroom needs a simple cosmetic update to a full custom remodel, our dedicated team of consultants and craftspeople will do an outstanding job the first time. Plus, you’ll get popular name brand products and an unmatched two-year warranty, all at a great value. So call today for a free consultation on your bath. When you see what we can do for you, you’ll be shaking your booty too.
Bob’s in his remodeled bath, getting his groove on. See photos of our remodeled bathrooms at SanJose.CaseRemodeling.com 408.323.5300 This business is independently owned and is operated under a license agreement with Case® Handyman & Remodeling Services, LLC.
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Bathroom Elegance Furniture Guild creates the antiques of tomorrow for today's discriminating homeowner. BY
LISA WINER
RE YOU A LOVER OF ALL THINGS WELL-CRAFTED and beautiful? Do you wish there was more attention paid to the design and execution of today’s furniture? Furniture Guild is a unique company that employs artisans—not factory workers—to do their best custom work on bathroom furniture not in Asia, but here at home in the USA.
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Can You Do This? Typically a customer will come to SplashWorks Kitchen and Bath Gallery with a picture from a magazine, saying, “I love this—can you do this?” The answer is inevitably—“yes,” says owner Eric Nelson. “If it’s feasible construction-wise, Furniture Guild can do it,” says Eric. Any kind of wood, finish or style is an option. For one SplashWorks client in Atherton, Furniture Guild built cabinets in a traditional style for two master suites using a Tuscan finish on one cabinet and a distressed wood on the other, including a built-in TV and custom frames for two Robern medicine cabinets. For another customer with a tight space, Furniture Guild created a modern look with a plain-front, freefloating cabinet. The cabinet was customized with a hair dryer and curling iron feature and a custom mirror to match. Top Quality Furniture Guild is producing the “antiques of tomorrow,” says Eric. Their bathroom furniture is solid wood, inside and out, and is also finished inside and out, which is very important in a moisture sensitive area, as moisture will cause lesser products to lose their integrity. Asian-made products are often made with MDF— medium-density fiberboard—which is cardboard and particle board, mixed with glue. Moisture will cause furniture made with MDF to swell, buckle, and blister. MDF also has formaldehyde in it, which can off-gas, making the homeowner sick. Every Furniture Guild piece is made one at a time and is signed by the craftsperson. The company is 3rd generation and family-owned, using old-world
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craftsmanship with the latest hardware technology. For the homeowner less interested in a one-of-a-kind piece, Furniture Guild offers 50 standard designs to choose from. A Unique Showroom SplashWorks’ business philosophy is much like that of Furniture Guild. “We offer the highest quality products a consumer can buy at the best possible price,” says Eric. “Buying something that is built to last adds value to your home and ends up costing less over time.” In this age of overseas manufacturing and big-box stores, there are few shops like Furniture Guild or showrooms like SplashWorks. In the kitchen and bath business for 23 years, the SplashWorks team has over 70 years of experience between them. Look no further than Furniture Guild and SplashWorks for the best. For more information, stop by SplashWorks, 1284 Lincoln Avenue, San Jose; (408) 279-5202; or visit their website www.SplashworksKB.com. THM
1284 L INCOLN AVENUE , S AN J OSE , CA
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95125 SPLASHWORKSKB . COM
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S I N K S T U B S S H O W E R D O O R S F A U C E T S T O I L E T S B I D E T S A C C E S S O R I E S M I R RO R S L I G H T I NG TODAYSHOMEBayArea.com
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I T
Save water, save money, protect our watersheds.
Water Efficiency inYour Bathroom BY ANNETTE
HARTSFIELD
AVE YOU EVER HAD TO GO WITHOUT WATER, even for just a short time? I recently had our home’s water heater replaced, which meant I had no domestic water for one day. For the first time I was acutely aware of how often I use water. I couldn’t wash the dirty dishes in the sink, run the clothes washer, or flush the toilet. All it took was a few hours of deprivation to show me just how much I take the availability of water for granted. Many experts believe that water will overtake energy as the resource of greatest concern to Californians in the coming years. We live in a state with a growing population, limited water reserves and unpredictable rainfall, not to mention that we are still facing serious drought conditions throughout the state. Of all the choices you make for a bathroom remodel, the most important are those that increase water efficiency. Build It Green’s GreenPoint Rated Checklist, which tracks green features incorporated into a home, includes the following three main points to hit when remodeling your bathroom:
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Distribute Domestic Hot Water Efficiently How much water goes down the drain while you wait for it to get hot? A normal wait-time can be up to a minute. At 2.5 gallons per minute, that adds up quickly. The closer your water heater is to your fixtures the quicker you’ll get hot water. Unfortunately, this isn’t always a feasible solution—especially for a remodel. Another way to greatly shorten hot water delivery time is to install an on-demand hot water circulation system. These systems consist of a pump with on-demand controls (a push button or motion-sensor activated) that sends cold water back to the water heater until hot water arrives at the sink. On-demand circulation systems save both energy and water, work with all water heater systems, and start at around $300.
water bills. Plus, the East Bay Municipal Utility District offers a $50 rebate for replacing your old toilet with a HET.
Replace Fixtures with Water Efficient Faucets and Showerheads Flow reducers and low-flow showerheads are easy to retrofit into existing fixtures and can cut water usage by as much as 40% with little noticeable effect. A variety of water conservation devices are available free of charge to East Bay Municipal Utility District customers (check www.ebmud.com for pick-up locations). For a list of suppliers of high efficiency faucets, showerheads, and toilets, see Build It Green’s Product Directory at www.BuildItGreen.org.
Install a High-Efficiency Toilet Older toilets typically use 3.5 gallons of water per flush or more. Standard new toilets use 1.6 gallons per flush. Toilets that use 1.3 gallons per flush are called High Efficiency Toilets (HET). According to the Environmental Protection Agency, if you replace an older toilet with a WaterSense labeled model (the water efficiency equivalent to EnergyStar), you could save 4000 gallons per year. WaterSense toilets are available at the same variety of price points as regular toilets and will save you about $90 per year in reduced 14
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The EPA estimates that the average household spends as much as $500 per year on its water and sewer bill. By making just a few simple changes to use water more efficiently, you could save about $170 per year and contribute to the protection of our water supply. Annette Hartsfield is a Build It Green Program Associate and grant writer. For more info on the GreenPoint Rated Checklist for green upgrades on your home, visit www.BuildItGreen.org. THM TODAYSHOMEBayArea.com
S.E.A. CONSTRUCTION, INC. Design • Build
Come on in and see what the buzz is all about! Kitchens and bathrooms? We always have and always will! We Make Beauty Affordable… Always!
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Bathroom S Automation BY
STUART LEE
Control your bathroom environment with a value-based home automation system.
O YOU’RE IN THE THROWS OF REMODELING YOUR MASTER BATHROOM. You’ve got the marble tile all picked out, the brushed nickel fixtures ordered, Jacuzzi tub and body jet sprayers for the shower all due to arrive soon. What about home automation and how it can tie into your master bath remodel? Home automation can be utilized to automatically control temperature and moisture within the room amongst many things. How often have you walked into the shower and realized that you forgot to turn on the exhaust fan? Have you looked up at your ceiling lately and seen the water/moisture damage that a hot-steaming shower can cause by not evacuating it? And we’ve all been guilty of taking an extra long shower because the heater was not turned on. We simply didn’t want to walk out into a cold bathroom after the hot shower. Put home automation to work to instantly warm up the room to your desired temperature, even cue up the floor heater for a set time so you can do your part to go green for the environment. The exhaust fan can turn on when it senses the moisture of the shower and turn off within a few minutes after you walk out of the room. Wouldn’t it be nice to push a button and have everything cue up just like in the homes of the rich and famous? Heating, ventilation, lighting, security and security cameras, television and music all ready and waiting to seamlessly create your desired euphoric environment. It’s just one click of a button away from reality. Lighting can also easily be controlled by the automation system. Walk into the shower and watch the lights and ventilation rhythmically cue up all without having to remember to touch a button. As you walk out of the room the motion detector lets the automation system know the room is no longer occupied. Save electricity and money by dimming lights to a set, imperceptible level and extend the life of the bulbs while you’re at it. Save even more money by never forgetting to turn off the lights or exhaust fan. Did you know that 20% of the energy produced in the U.S. is used for lighting? And 50% is wasted through inefficient lighting sources or thoughtless usage. Home Automation makes saving money and extending the life of your equipment fun! Music can be turned on, cued up to your desired station, volume level and even play your favorite playlist via the push of one button. Need to critically wake up so you don’t miss your flight overseas? Have a different setting to play head banger music. Part of your wake up alarm can turn on your desired lights—dimming them up to a determined level over say a 15 minute period. The lighting can also be programmed to automatically turn off during the week as if you’re rushing off to work and forget to turn them off. If you live alone or your spouse is away a lot the system can be programmed to automatically turn your alarm to “Stay” mode so all perimeter sensors are armed and you can feel safe that no one walks into the house while you’re showering. If you hear a noise outside or simply want to see who’s at the front door wouldn’t it be nice to see what’s going on? Again it’s not a problem with home automation. A simple vacuum switch located next to the shower (like one that’s used to turn on the disposal unit in the kitchen) can be installed to signal the bathroom television to turn on and switch to the security camera system. Wow, all of these features are available for someone to use just to wake up to in the morning? Think about all the other applications home automation can be used in the rest of the house. Of course that’s another story. To be continued…
For more information contact your local home automation specialist—HIDEF Audio Video, 1610 Monterey Road, San Jose, (408) 887-4479; Store hours are Monday-Saturday, 9 AM–6 PM, closed Sunday. THM 16
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[ N K B A ]
National Kitchen & Bath Association
Creating Personal Space Ideas to turn your master bedroom and bath into your own personal retreat. BY
KELLY MORISSEAU, CMKBD, CID
F YOU’RE THE TYPICAL NORTHERN CALIFORNIA HOMEOWNER, you’ve a lot on your plate—the pressures of work, family schedules, and the Bay Area commute. And let’s face it—as much as we love our kids—having a quiet place for ourselves away from the video games, the music, the friends, and the movies can be golden. Yet with the economy still recovering, and vacations a dim memory, many of us are discovering the perfect place to catch our breaths and create our very own personal retreats—our master bedrooms and baths. To achieve that perfect balance of calmness and serenity, here are some suggestions:
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Think soft colors that invite you to linger While turquoise may be the color for 2010, take a page from the latest designs from award-winning spas and hotels—it’s no accident that many use paler tones in taupes, mints, and light blues to achieve a sense of tranquility. If you’re not a fan of cool tones, consider warmer paint tones which suit our California climes, light caramels and creams. Avoid vibrant energetic tones, such as oranges and bright reds, which stimulate rather than relax. 18
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Make your master bedroom a true retreat, not a second office It’s a challenge to relax when work notes, the kids’ schedules, and your emails are reproaching you from across the room! Desks have no place in a personal retreat. For a true, calming retreat, you need to be free of daily distractions, with a quiet area to rest and gather your thoughts. Is there room to sit and read or to put your feet up other than your bed? Corners can be the perfect spot for a comfy armchair and ottoman.
Take advantage of natural light What do the most relaxing bed and breakfasts places have in common? They take advantage of windows and exterior doors to let the outdoors in—why shouldn’t you? Our bodies respond well to natural light. If you have patio doors leading out to a deck or small garden area, extend your bedroom space with a charming patio table and chairs—the perfect spot for a morning coffee or evening aperitif. TODAYSHOMEBayArea.com
Now Is The Time To Replace That Old, Energy Guzzling Heat & Air System! TAKE ADVANTAGE OF • Federal Tax Credit • PGE Rebates • Manufacturer’s Rebates • PLUS: $300 OFF A NEW
Lighting sets the mood Bathrooms need a bit more brightness for safety, but it’s a challenge to maintain an intimate quiet space with the fluorescent lighting our energy code requires. Consider instead high-efficacy LED lights which can be controlled with dimmer switches for perfect soft lighting over the tub, or combine a dimmer switch with an occupancy sensor for incandescent lighting. A bedroom has different requirements. Think gentle pools of light where you need them, using a combination of dimmable table or floor lamps. If you read in bed, wall sconces or reading lights over the bed are much more beneficial—and restful!—than overall room lighting.
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DESIGN • INSTALLATION • SERVICE • Air Conditioning & Heating • Radiant Floor Heating • Hybrid Heating Systems • Indoor Air Quality Assessments • Geothermal • Solar Thermal
With the right steps, your bedroom and bath can be so much more— a true retreat to rejuvenate your mind and body. Enjoy! Kelly Morisseau, CMKBD, CID, is a designer at Main Street Kitchens, www.MainStreetKitchens.com, and a member of the Northern California Chapter of the National Kitchen and Bath Association. The NKBA is your source for design ideas, expert remodeling tips, and advice. To find a design professional near you please visit www.nkba.org. THM
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A C O M PA N Y S E RV I C E B U I LT S I N C E 19 76
Jackel Enterprises, purveyor of quality lumber & millwork, offers distinctive wood products to enhance your home’s ambiance. Real Wood Box Beams Wood Mantles Master bath in mint and white. Main Street Kitchens; designers mother/daughter team Kelly Morisseau, CMKBD, CID and Carol Morisseau, CMKBD, CID.
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1-800-711-WOOD www.woodboxbeams.com www.jackelenterprises.com 347 Locust Street, Watsonville, CA 95076 Phone: 831-768-3880 FAX: 831-768-3883 TODAYSHOMEBayArea.com
South Bay/Silicon Valley THM June/July 2010
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[ S O P H I S T I C A T E D
B A T H R O O M S ]
Your Private Sanctuary Give your master bedroom a low-cost high-impact makeover. BY
DEBORAH BURSTYN
HEN BRIGHT SPRING AND SUMMER LIGHT STREAMS through the windows, it’s suddenly crystal clear that some spaces in the home need perking up. Take the master bedroom for example. It’s your very own private sanctuary for resting, dreaming and escape. Yet most of us give it low priority. Instead we put our decorating dollars into more visible public spaces in the home like the kitchen, living room or family room. We treat ourselves last. But we don’t have to. The master bedrooms are one place where minimum time and money can yield big returns. Today’s Home magazine got advice from Santa Clara decorator Sandy Wulf of Crackerjack Creations on fast fun ways to make the master bedroom fresh and gorgeous.
W
HOW TO GET A GREAT NEW LOOK WITHOUT BREAKING THE BUDGET
Palo Alto decorator Sandy Wulf of Crackerjack Creations shares her suggestions for an easy master bedroom makeover: • New bedding • New paint • De-cluttering • Under bed storage • “Do-it-yourself” closet system “Start with new bedding,” suggests Sandy. “The bed is the biggest feature in the master bedroom. “So choose your bedding with an eye to it being your focal point and setting the tone for the color scheme in the room.” Next, Wulf advises selecting paint colors for the walls to coordinate with the new bedding. Here’s a trick she likes to use:
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June/July 2010 THM South Bay/Silicon Valley
• Choose a medium light color for three of the four walls • For the fourth wall (headboard wall) use a color from the same paint chip but at three times the color intensity for an accent wall “The room will still be light, but dramatic,” she says. HOW TO DE-CLUTTER THE BEDROOM
It’s natural for a bedroom to get cluttered. But a room crammed to the gills is not attractive or relaxing. That’s why decorator Sandy Wulf recommends a strict editing process: • Remove all non-essential furniture except for the bed, two night stands and one dresser • No hampers, storage boxes, laundry supplies, computers, bookcases, etc. “Less is more. The bedroom should be a tranquil space; not a dumping ground for leftovers and laundry!” Wulf offers. “Not small, just less. Large furniture in a small space actually makes the room appear larger!” SELECT THE BEST STORAGE FOR YOUR SITUATION
• Use under the bed storage for rarely used items • Opt for clear plastic containers on wheels designed for under the bed • Retrofit closets with “do-it-yourself” systems from home improvement stores
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That was then...
This is WOW! A Home Equity Line of Credit or Second Mortgage from National 1st can make your dreams come true! • Or tuck a vintage dresser into one side of a double closet for extra drawer space and something you’ll enjoy seeing when you open your closet If there’s budget to spare, new lighting, a wall-mounted flat screen television and new throw pillows to match the new bedding provide some luxe touches. Now just add fresh cut flowers and candles. Sweet dreams. For more design ideas, contact Sandy Wulf, Crackerjack Creations at (408) 241-4044 or visit her web site, www.crackerjackcreations.com. THM
ROOM WITH A VIEW, $695 “Homeowners need design advice without feeling the pressure to buy,” says Sandy Wulf, owner. The session includes 3 hours in your home answering decorating questions
At National 1st Credit Union, you’ll find: • Loan amounts up to 75% of your equity • Loan amounts up to $200,000 • Low competitive rates
• No appraisal fees* • Tax deductible interest** • Flexible terms • No annual fee
For more information on our mortgage products, visit us online at www.national1st.org or come into any National 1st branch. Email: mortgages@national1st.org Phone: 408.524.4500 • 888.672.6073
Local branch locations: 2999 San Ysidro Way Santa Clara, 95051
and providing room-by-room specific design ideas/products with below retail shopping sources. The fee includes a color portfolio of all information.
5353 Almaden Expressway San Jose, 95118 (located next to TJ Maxx Home Goods)
www.crackerjackcreations.com 408.241.4044 BROCHURE AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST.
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*Free appraisal is for online valuation only. If the online valuation is insufficient you may request a full appraisal at your expense. **The interest paid on the portion of the credit exceeding the property value is not tax deductible for Federal income tax purposes. Please consult a tax advisor regarding the deductibility of interest.
South Bay/Silicon Valley THM June/July 2010
21
TIME TO REMODEL In this economy, quality and experience actually saves you money on your remodel. BY
22
DEBORAH BURSTYN
June/July 2010 THM South Bay/Silicon Valley
W
CHANEL SUIT FOR THE SAME price as a discount department store dress? What if you could eat dinner at the French Laundry for the same price as a fast food chain meal? You might not be able to swing those deals but what you can do is this: you can get your kitchen or bath remodel designed and constructed by the prestigious S.E.A. Construction Company for the same price as getting it done by your sister’s neighbor’s cousin’s contractor or by a big box home supply store. Okay, you’re thinking. How is this possible? After all, S.E.A. Construction, rated one of the top remodeling firms in the nation by Qualified Remodeler and Remodeling Magazines is a company known for its whole house renovations, and additions. But the truth is that you can access the expertise of S.E.A. Construction HAT IF YOU COULD GET A
TODAYSHOMEBayArea.com
for a smaller job and have all that in-house professionalism and experience working for you at the same price you’d pay for a lesser firm. “We recently took two kitchen jobs away from a big box store,” says Steve Albert, S.E.A. Founder and President, with a chuckle. “Because we can get it done for less—without compromising the finest in design, construction, and service.” How does S.E.A. do it? Relying on the talents of their own inhouse architect and interior designers, who all pull together as a team, projects get streamlined and sail along without the errors, do-over’s and downtime that can plague projects done by less organized firms. Other firms may be so small that everything has to be ordered a la carte or so big that details slip through the cracks—literally. But S.E.A. Construction gets it just right—with an industry leading 3-year guarantee that includes checking up on your completed project every six to eight months. “It is extremely important to monitor the new construction and fixtures as the materials settle into a home,” advises Albert. “We do not believe a project is finished until we are assured that it is all working together with the rest of the home in an optimal way. That is why we make arrangements to visit the home and check up on our work every six to eight months for three years.” In business for over 21 years, S.E.A.’s longstanding relationships with vendors and subcontractors give them the buying power that really saves their clients money, every time. “Saving money has become chic,” Albert comments. “It’s great to be able to find good deals but compromising on design and quality construction is never a good value in the long term.” With the team approach providing efficiency in architectural, engineering and interior design, Albert estimates that projects done by his firm save clients a minimum of 15 to 20 percent over the cost TODAYSHOMEBayArea.com
of doing things differently. This type of coordination is paramount for kitchens and baths because of their complexity, and they are the most highly used rooms in the home. “We all really enjoy doing kitchens and baths,” says Albert, “Because we know how important these rooms are to our homeowners. They are very satisfying projects.” Now is a better time than ever to do a kitchen or bath makeover, Albert advises, because costs of labor and material have dropped by at least 14%-21%. Additionally, innovations and improvements in pre-manufactured materials, such as bathroom vanities with tops and sinks attached, can save over 50% of the cost of having similar fixtures made to order. S.E.A.’s design staff will help you sift through the countless choices to find just the right fit for you. “Design plays a huge role in what we do because without our highly skilled design team we could not coordinate all the choices and materials for the best possible look overall. Our Architects and Designers are trained to help you prevent the mistakes that can compromise a project’s look or function. And having the support and experience of our Production department to assist in preparing the job and completing the construction allows them to focus on what they do best, pleasing our clients with award winning designs. You get the best possible results in less time, which means less money. It is just part of what we do,” Albert says. Now is the time to snag S.E.A.’s sterling reputation, track record of over 2,000 jobs in the Bay Area and one-stop shop of experts who help expedite permits, schedules, design and construction, for your home improvement project. To save time and money on your remodeling project, call S.E.A. Construction in San Mateo (650) 287-4202 or visit their showroom at 1941 O’Farrell Street, Suite 101, or visit the company’s Web site at www.seaconstruction.com. THM South Bay/Silicon Valley THM June/July 2010
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Short on Space? Wallbeds help homeowners maximize space by making rooms multifunctional. BY
XU BEI SHI
F
or many homeowners, it’s a tough choice: home office or guest room. Yet Larry Fox, president and owner of Valet Custom Cabinets and Closets, insists there’s no need to make a choice because a comfortable wallbed allows one room to do double duty. His wallbed customers all face the same challenge—lack of space. “We have customers with growing families,” he says. “They need room for visitors but they also need the extra bedroom as an office. They want to have a home office, craft room or sewing room but they also want an extra room their guests. Grandparents often visit. Other customers want it for everyday use, maybe they’ve moved to a retirement condo from a house, or they’re just starting out in a condo. They don’t want a bed to take up space when not sleeping.” With their vast assortment of wallbeds—queen, double and twin size bed are available in both vertical and side-tile options. Valet also offers beds with fold down tables and even beds that open with the touch of a remote. Designers work with customers to create a personalized and fully integrated solution that can include a home office or craft center, as well as storage such as wardrobe cabinets or bookcases. “We are not a furniture store selling a wallbed,” says Fox. “We are a custom cabinet maker.” That’s a big distinction. The team of in-house designers can devise a custom solution for all kinds of scenarios where space saving and multiple uses are the goal for a room. “Because it’s custom cabinetry, we can do anything a customer would like,” says Fox. Customers can opt for wood, or laminates and a variety of different decorative options. Valet’s 20,000-squarefoot Campbell woodshop is a certified green facility and that 95 percent of all materials used are sustainable. The most requested options? Fox says reading lights and decorative cabinet fronts top the list. For Valet’s customers, the result is a multi-purpose room rich in the details that come only from a fully integrated solution that hides its multitasking talents elegantly. The Valet’s solutions even add value to a home when an owner goes to sell. Fox hears from customers that buyers rarely want their integrated cabinetry removed. In fact, “it’s written into the contract that it will stay,” he says. For more info on Valet Custom Cabinets and Closets, Organizers, go to www.valetcustom.com and visit their showrooms: Campbell Showroom & Manufacturing; 1190 Dell Avenue, Suite J, (408) 370-1041; Hours: Mon - Fri 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM; Sat 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM; Danville Showroom; 602 Sycamore Valley Road West (in the Danville Livery) (925) 362-8838; Hours: Tues – Sat 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. THM
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June/July 2010 THM South Bay/Silicon Valley
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RESOURCE GUIDE AIR CONDITIONING & HEAT
Mechanical Air Service 808-913-4822 www.mechanicalairservice.com ARTIFICIAL TURF
Heavenly Greens 866-724-8873 www.heavenlygreens.com AUTOMATED SHADING SYSTEMS
Screen Solutions 408-374-8156 www.screensolutionsonline.com CABINETS & CLOSETS
Valet Custom Cabinets & Closets 408-370-1041 www.valetcustom.com CREDIT UNION
National 1st Credit Union 888-672-6073 www.national1st.org GARAGE STORAGE
LUMBER & MILLWORK
Jackel Enterprises 800-711-wood www.jackelenterprises.com OUTDOOR FURNITURE & BBQ
Complete Backyards 408-748-8100 www.completebackyards.com PAINTING
Rhino Shield 408-266-7048 www.rhinoshieldca.com PATIO ROOFING SYSTEMS
Screen Solutions 408-374-8156 www.screensolutionsonline.com PAVING STONES
Black Diamond Landscape & Designs 800-942-1955 www.blackdiamondlandscape.com REMODELING CONSTRUCTION
Premier Garage 866-497-2880 www.premiergarage.com
CASE Handyman Remodeling 408-323-5300 www.sanjose.caseremodeling.com
GARDEN ORNAMENTS
REMODELING CONSTRUCTION
Giannini Garden Ornaments 650-873-4493 www.gianninigarden.com
S.E.A. Construction 650-287-4202 www.seaconstruction.com
GRANITE AND CABINETS
SCREENS AND SHADES
ZMC Kitchens & Baths 866-497-2880 www.zmcproducts.com HOME THEATER
Hi-Def Audio Video 408-294-6632 INTERIOR DESIGN
Jeanese Rowell Design 650-323-1065 www.jrdesign.com INTERIOR DESIGN
Crackerjack Creations 408-241-4044 www.crackerjackcreations.com KITCHEN & BATH GALLERY
Splashworks 408-279-5202 www.splashworkskb.com KITCHEN DESIGN CENTER
Ric’s Kitchen & Bath 510-733-5543 www.rics-kitchen-bath.com KITCHEN & BATH SHOWROOM
Kitchen & Bath Showplace 408-554-1552 www.kbshowplace.com LANDSCAPE DESIGN
Screen Solutions 408-374-8156 www.screensolutionsonline.com SHOWER DOORS & ENCLOSURES
California Shower Door 800-675-6225 www.calshowerdoor.com SPAS
Spa Outlet 408-654-8010 www.coastspas.com SWIMMING POOLS
Lifetime Pools 650-494-7070 www.lifetimepools.com WALLBEDS
Wallbeds “n” More 408-761-4732 www.wallbedsnmore.com WINDOWS & DOORS
Argonaut Window & Door 408-376-4018 www.argowin.com WINDOW TINTING
Solar Control Glass Tinting Co. 800-999-3828 www.solarcontrolcompany.com
Masterpiece Garden & Design 925-937-2253 www.masterpiecegarden.com
List your business, call 925-659-6200 TODAYSHOMEBayArea.com
South Bay/Silicon Valley THM June/July 2010
25
A Green Painting Solution a unique ceramic coating system is the new painting option. BY
LISA WINER
D
ID YOU KNOW THERE IS AN ALTERNATIVE
to painting your home that will provide you with energy savings and is environmentally friendly? The solution is Rhino Shield, a water- and ceramic-based product newly available for residential use. Jeff Olson is the owner of Rhino Shield, the only provider of the product in the area. “Rhino Shield is unique because it reflects UV energy, allowing you to save on your energy bills,” he says. The ceramics inside it make it equal to a 5-inch insulated wall. By contrast, conventional paint is just a “powder coating,” says Jeff, that doesn’t insulate or protect the home from sun or moisture. Jeff’s family left the painting business years ago because with regular paint, homeowners are just “renting color.” “Painting definitely does not insulate and because the home underneath is being destroyed by rain and sun, extra trees and resources are used to repair the home,” he says. Rhino Shield is nontoxic and has no VOCs. It is maintenance-free and lasts a lifetime, saving on the production and disposal of paint products. The EPA considers it an encapsulator for toxic and lead paints. Rhino Shield is available in every color that is imaginable, says Jeff. It has been used commercially and industrially for over 40 years by multinational
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June/July 2010 THM South Bay/Silicon Valley
corporations around the world. Look no further for the optimal energy-saving and environmentally friendly solution to covering your home. To see how Rhino Shield can give your home a beautiful, durable coating, call (888) 868-7575 or visit www.RhinoShieldCA.com. THM TODAYSHOMEBayArea.com
TODAYSHOMEBayArea.com
South Bay/Silicon Valley THM June/July 2010
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Unique Backyards Locally designed and manufactured garden ornaments. BY
XU BEI SHI
A
GIANNINI GARDEN ORNAMENTS, the selection of handmade pieces often overwhelms customers. Fountains, birdbaths, planters, benches, tables, urns, statues — for some people, it’s overwhelming in the best possible way. “They make two or three trips here before making a selection, there’s so much to see,” says Piera Giannini, a native San Franciscan who owns the South San Francisco business with her Italian-born husband Marino. On each visit, one of the Gianninis or their two sons, PierLuigi, 25, a Sacramento State graduate with a business degree and Alessandro, 18, a Sacramento State business student, are on hand to help guide customers. The family adheres to Old World traditions that include making almost all the items on the premises in a factory many people overlook as they amble, enthralled, through the show garden with more than 400 flowing fountains. “Everything for our garden ornament line is manufactured at our location,” she says. Marino, who comes from a family with deep, long roots in stone working, is the designer. He creates ornaments to last for generations because that’s what he knows. “We supervise production from beginning to end,” Piera says. The enterprise with 30 employees also crafts the array of waterspouts, including a new line of rustic iron styles, used in the fountains. There are 50 styles of water spouts to select from. Change a waterspout and you completely transform the look of a fountain. Even customers who come in having done their research on the company’s well-organized web site find new ways of thinking about a project when exploring the options. “I always tell them to get what they love,” says Piera. “I know there’s a lot to see, we have 20 T
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June/July 2010 THM South Bay/Silicon Valley
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MANUFACTURED ON SITE: FOUNTAINS WALL FOUNTAINS PLANTERS • TABLES
different finishes, some look vintage, some look like travertine stone. So we understand that it can take time to decide.” With the exception of pizza ovens and a selection of terra cotta and ceramic items they import from family-owned firms in Italy, everything is made “in the USA” says Piera proudly. She also points out that having locally manufactured items means a small carbon footprint because there’s little shipping involved. “People like that, and they appreciate how hands-on we are, and that we’re a family who makes everything, rather than just reselling,” she says. “It’s a rarity, so they refer their friends. We have designers, landscape architects, and customers coming back again and again.”
BENCHES • STATUES BIRDBATHS DIRECT IMPORTERS OF: ITALIAN TERRA COTTA POTS AND CERAMICS PATIO FURNITURE WOOD BURNING PIZZA OVENS FROM ITALY OUTDOOR FIREPLACES
Thousands of items on display! Visit Our Factory and Showroom
Visit Giannini Garden Ornaments factory and showroom, 225 Shaw Road, South San Francisco, (650) 873-4493, Monday through Saturday 8:00 AM– 4:30 PM or at www.gianninigarden.com. THM
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225 SHAW ROAD, SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO MON–SAT 8 AM–4:30 PM
650.873.4493 • gianninigarden.com
South Bay/Silicon Valley THM June/July 2010
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The Perfect Spa T
HERE REALLY IS NOTHING MORE RELAXING THAN SPENDING A
Experience the health benefits while relaxing. BY
STEVE GANDY
few minutes in a spa or hot tub at the end of the day. The benefits of hot tub therapy are immeasurable. Whether you use your hot tub to unwind after a stressful day, to reduce pain in muscles and joints, to detoxify for a healthier body or to promote a more restful sleep, you’ll experience all of these benefits within a few minutes as you relax and feel stress just melt away. Spa Outlet in Santa Clara has been in business over 30 years, and Bob Marshall, the owner, has been in the same location for 20 years. That’s a pretty remarkable feat these days. Contrast that with the 20 hours that the traveling “Spa Closeout Shows” are at a fairground near you, and you get a sense of the comfort Bob’s customers have in doing business with him. Not only is Bob an expert in spa construction and design, he also provides excellent technical knowledge and service. I can uniquely testify to this, as I bought my spa from Bob in 1986— and I’m still using it today! (Bob thinks I may be one of his oldest customers still using their original spa.) The point is—that much like a car—there’s a need for after sale parts and service. So where you buy is just as important as what you buy. I asked Bob to discuss what are the most important considerations in purchasing a spa today… THE SHELL: Nothing is more important when it comes to the quality and durability of your spa, and looks can be deceiving. The thickness, the quality of construction and materials make the difference. Look for deep comfortable seating with proper jet placement. The quality of the insulation will also impact your energy usage and cost of ownership over the long run.
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June/July 2010 THM South Bay/Silicon Valley
TODAYSHOMEBayArea.com
FILTRATION: A clean spa makes for a happy user. Some spas employ a passive skimmer/filter approach, while others filter their water under pressure forcing it to cycle through the filter, resulting in a healthier spa. Most spas today incorporate an Ozonator system that reduces the level of sanitizers and dissolved solids which results in less maintenance and cleaner clear water.
World’s Best Built Spas
™
OPTIONS: There are many options, including: color and finish of the shell, color and finish of the cabinet material, the HP rating and number of pumps, the placement and number of jets, seating configuration, lighting, audio and even video. Many people buy a spa with the thought that it will become an “entertainment center” with all the bells and whistles, only to discover it becomes more of a “sanctuary”.
I recommend getting the advice of an expert to determine the spa design that’s right for you and your lifestyle. Explore it. Take a look at what’s available today. I can easily attest that very few things have provided me with the satisfaction and enjoyment over the years that my spa has. I highly recommend it! For more information, stop by Spa Outlet, 921 Lauralwood Road, Santa Clara or call (408) 654-8010. Spa Outlet is the authorized dealer for Coast Spas, www.CoastSpas.com. THM S THI ON CEIVE I T E M E NT O R C I A L PE RTER AD S A S TA E ! S PA C K A GTA I L S DE PA
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CUSTOM DESIGNS ALSO AVAILABLE!
The largest display of wallbeds in the Bay Area! WallbedsNMore.com
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1350 DELL AVENUE • CAMPBELL Showroom Open by Appointment
(408) 761-4732 Other Locations: San Ramon (925) 895-2406 Burlingame (650) 888-8131 NEW LOCATION–Novato (415) 827-1876
Spa Outlet Authorized Coast Spas Distributor
4O8-654-8O1O 921 Laurelwood Road Santa Clara South Bay/Silicon Valley THM June/July 2010
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VERGOLA Create the perfect outdoor environment whatever the weather with the Award Winning Vergola Operable Louvre Roof System. A flick of a switch enables you to control the amount light, shade and ventilation. The unique double skinned design also provides thermal insulation and sound reduction. At the first hint of rain, the automatic rain sensor closes the louvres to form a weatherproof shelter. Whether traditional or contemporary, the Vergola system integrates seamlessly into all types of buildings.
Whatever the weather enjoy Outdoor living all year round
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All available sun
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408-374-8156
vergolasouthwest.com