Calgary Home Décor and Renovations - APR/MAY 2013

calgary edition | free

april - may 2013 Volume 11 issue 2

plus

GettinG ready for SprinG!

create function and style in the kitchen

The Cardel homes desIGNsIde Team

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For Those Who Value Luxury, Quality And Exceptional Design 403.203.7676 + info@albirenova.com + albirenova.com

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contents

Cardel DesignSide team : L to R: Jenelle Erickson, Kendra Williamson, Marie-Claire Williams, Clare Gardner

cover story

10

Cardel Homes designside

team talks about renos by heather ryan

08 Editor’s notebook

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april - may 2013

10

35

Special spring inspiration section

features

tips & tricks

20 Kitchen renovations

41 Building a Detached Garage

by heather ryan

30 A breath of fresh air by mickey foulds

46 A kitchen You can live with by adene lucas

52 Staging 101 by laura le

by vanessa gash

44 A dose of reality by hellen buttigieg

58 Decoding the code by michael nyikes

59 What to use to strengthen your concrete slab

by shell busey

business profiles 16 Enhance Your Home Renovations by heather ryan

29 Gienow Windows & Doors

style file 55 Get organized in the bedroom by yanic simard

by heather ryan

home and garden feature in every issue

volume 11 issue 2

36 Getting Your Outdoor Spaces Ready for the Season!

reno mark 57 A home renovation starts earlier than you think

by bryan tuckey

by bonny dann escapes inc.

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Ph: 403.852.2524 I Showroom: Bay 5-700 58 Ave, SE Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-6pm Saturday-Sunday 10am-3pm brad@lakeviewfloors.ca I www.lakeviewfloors.ca

®

Calgary Region Canadian Home Builders’ Association

®

• Hardwood • Tile • Cork • Bamboo • Carpet • Laminate • LVT • Congoleum • Dura Ceramic

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EDITOR’SNOTEBOOK

APRIL - MAY 2013 VOLUME 11 ISSUE 02 VICE PRESIDENT, NATIONAL REAL ESTATE

Jacqueline Hill EDITOR-IN-CHIEF, NATIONIAL REAL ESTATE

Susan Legge MANAGING EDITOR

Silvana Longo ART DIRECTOR

Julie Yoo DIRECTOR OF SALES, WESTERN CANADA

Josh Heppner MEDIA CONSULTANT

Anita van Breevoort, 403.461.5518 PRODUCTION MANAGER

Bala Gnanapandithan

Refresh and renew with the season As we move into the spring season, many of us are anxious to start refreshing our homes both inside and out.

In this issue of Home Décor and Renovations, designer Mickey Foulds shows us ways to breathe new life into our winter caves and talks about the latest trends, colours and textures from the 2013 Las Vegas Market.

Spring is a busy time for home renovations and our cover story on Cardel Renovations covers off the practical aspects of a good reno, as well as the investment potential.

Since this is also traditionally the time we like to clean up and organize our homes, we have several features to help you out. In the Spring Inspiration section, you’ll find Bonny Dann’s tips on getting your garden ready for summer, while professional organizer Hellen Buttigieg’s de-cluttering tips will makes organizing and maintenance easy no matter what the season.

And don’t miss designer Yanic Simard’s feature on organizing your bedroom. I love his clever tip on creating one place to charge, hide and organize your electronics. I tried it and can tell you it works!

Be sure to check out the many other features on reno and design as well as our regular lineup of expert contributors including Shell Busey, Laura Le, Bryan Tuckey and Michael Nyikes.

I hope you will let us know what you think of this issue of Home Décor & Renovations. We’d love to hear from you!

Thanks for reading,

SUSAN LEGGE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF, NATIONAL REAL ESTATE susan.legge@wall2wallmedia.com Follow me on twitter: twitter.com/SusanLegge

Become a fan of Home Décor and Renovations on Facebook

PRODUCTION CO-ORDINATOR/ GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Mohammad Haidarpour GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Alex Yakubovich, Lee Cobham CONTRIBUTORS

Heather Ryan, Mickey Foulds, Adene Lucas, Laura Le, Bonny Dann Escapes Inc., Vanessa Gash, Hellen Buttigieg, Michael Nyikes, Shell Busey, Yanic Simard, Bryan Tuckey DISTRIBUTION

Bill White 403.255.3898 x2304 Home Décor and Renovations magazine is published six times a year. Home Décor and Renovations magazine is distributed throughout Calgary and Greater Calgary area. This publication has been designed for the renovation market as a guide. Home Décor and Renovations magazine carefully inspects all ads for accuracy, however, the publisher and the printer shall not be responsible for any mistakes, design errors or incorrect information which is provided by the advertiser or their representative.

The advertising herein, including the photographs and all artwork is the property of Home Décor and Renovations magazine and not that of the advertiser. The advertiser has purchased the right of reproduction in Home Décor and Renovations magazine only and does not have the right to reproduce the ad in whole or in part in any other place or publication without the consent of the publisher.

The entire contents of this publication are protected by copyright and are intended for the sole use of the public.

WE’RE LISTENING! Send us your comments, questions, renovation stories, pictures and great ideas!

HOME DÉCOR AND RENOVATIONS 2891 Sunridge Way NE Calgary, AB T1Y 7K7 T 403.461.5518 PUBLISHED BY

Wall2Wall Media is a trademark of Yellow Pages Group Co. in Canada.

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After building homes for 40 years, it was time to renovate.

So now we do that too.

Call for a free renovation consultation

403.258.1511

CARDELHOMES.COM

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coverstory

Home renovations a great investment by heather ryan

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WHetHer you Have an older

home in need of a facelift or a newer one that you wish was more suited to your personality, both can benefit from having a well-designed, professionallycrafted renovation.

“The benefits of renovating are countless,” says Marie-Claire Williams, design and sales consultant with Cardel Renovations. “Whether you’re looking at selling or staying in your home, renovations are a good investment.

“A renovation done right can increase the value of your home and it can improve your quality of life by making it the house of your dreams,” she says. “Buying a home is one of the biggest investments people make, and a renovation project can improve that investment and make it more comfortable for you and your family.”

Williams says a kitchen renovation “is the number one biggest bang for the buck when it comes to resale value. You can invest $30,000 in a kitchen and it can increase the value of the house by almost double that.

There is also the personal return – getting a kitchen that is more functional, practicable and reflects your personality.”

You also don’t need to gut the whole kitchen to get the look you want. For example, Williams says, you can update the kitchen by doing a spray lacquer on your existing cabinets, if they’re still in good shape, change out the old hardware and add new plumbing fixtures and lighting.

When it comes to layout, Williams says they look at the kitchen “triangle” – the placement of the fridge, stove and sink, and how the traffic flows between them. “Are they so far apart that it’s not efficient? We can address that in a redesign by positioning them better and adding things like a spice rack beside the stove so they’re more readily accessible.”

Besides kitchens, master Bedroom ensuites and full Basement developments are the next most desiraBle places to invest in for renovations to the home.

She also looks at whether or not the island is functional or a hindrance; if more storage or counter space is needed; and what needs updating such as appliances, flooring and finishes.

Cardel Renovations just completed a kitchen renovation to a home in Somerset and Williams discussed with the owner what their needs and wants were “and what they originally wanted was almost double their budget. So we worked together, and I showed them through their selections they could get what they wanted for less.” apr - May 2013 home décor and renovations 11

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In the end, the kitchen received new granite countertops, hardwood floor, paint, cabinets, sink, faucet and hardware, as well the island, “which was an awkward design, was changed and it gave them a much more functional kitchen with more space and storage.”

Renovating also allows for homeowners to add new trends. “In kitchens, we’re seeing islands that look more like furniture pieces and you’ll notice that the Aga style ranges are making a big come back,” Williams says. “It’s nice to incorporate new trends into designs but they need to be more of a timeless, classic look – you don’t want something that you can’t live with and have to replace in five years.”

For example, she says, Emerald Green is the hot colour this year, but suggests using it for accessories such as a kettle or cushions or as a decorative tile insert in the

Williams says a kitchen renovation “is the numBer one Biggest Bang for the Buck When it comes to resale value. you can invest $30,000 in a kitchen and it can increase the value of the house By almost douBle that.

backsplash and not on your countertop that would be costly to replace if you don’t like it a year later.

Besides kitchens, master bedroom ensuites and full basement developments are the next most desirable places to invest in for renovations to the home.

“In ensuites people are looking for more space and to create a spa-like feel so it adds to their comfort, while basement developments are getting a good return in resale because they add more square footage,” Williams says. “If you live near a school, it’s likely a family will buy your home, so having a fourth bedroom, an additional bathroom and space for the kids in the basement is ideal.”

Williams says many people looking to update their home have trouble deciding where to spend their renovation dollars, nailing down a budget and choosing interior finishes.

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When it comes to layout, Williams says they look at the kitchen “triangle” – the placement of the fridge, stove and sink, and hoW the traffic floWs BetWeen them.

But with Cardel Homes’ 40 years of experience in building quality-crafted homes behind it, Cardel Renovations helps homeowners overcome those hurdles by providing an expert team who works with them from the project’s initial beginning and estimating to design and completion.

Whether you purchase a new home or a renovation, all Cardel customers have the unique access to the 11,000 sq ft Cardel Design Centre where they work with their own personal interior designer to make their selection.

For Home décor and renovation tips check out Jenelle, Kendra, Marie-Claire and Clare on Ctv morning live every thursday at 8:38 am or visit cardelhomes.com to watch past shows and to obtain more information on Cardel renovations and the Cardel design Centre.

13

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businessprofile

enhance Your home renovations

EnhancE

your renovation experienCe by hEathEr ryan

C

algarians considering a home renovation project this year can enhance the total experience by choosing a renovator that provides exceptional service, quality and pricing.

Enhance Your Home Renovations was started in 2007 by home designer Randy Kaminsky who wanted to focus his 20-plus years of experience in the building industry on providing customers with the service they deserve from quote to completion. Kaminsky’s goal is also shared by partner Wayne Prothmann, whose 19 years of hands-on construction experience ensures quality in the craftsmanship.

“We want our customers to feel comfortable and we treat their renovation project as if it was our own,” Kaminsky says. “We’re big enough that we can do all sizes of renovation, but our customers feel they’re part of the family.”

To enhance the service, the renovator opened a store-front showroom in Lake Bonavista’s Promenade Mall providing people with the opportunity to drop by anytime and discuss their renovation ideas. “Having a location in a mall creates a very welcoming atmosphere and a lot of people stop in and chat long before they decide on going ahead with a project, so we build a relationship with them – a renovator who works solely out of a truck can’t really give you that, so it’s a big advantage to our customers,” he says.

“A lot of people don’t know how or where to get started so they come in with their pictures and floor plans and ask us for advice,” Kaminsky says. “That’s how a number of our customers get to know us and eventually invite us to quote on their project.”

The showroom also provides a one-stop shop simplifying the selection process by having a majority of interior finishings they can choose for their home on display. The finishings are colour coded so people can clearly see choices for standard finishings and the upgraded products, as well as the pricing.

Kaminsky says this ensures transparency and “allows us to provide fixed pricing. When we give our customers a quote they know exactly what they’re getting for finishings because they know what’s standard, what will be included, and it’s very detailed so there are no surprises half-way through the job.

We pride ourselves in being on time and on budget.”

As well, having the showroom means Enhance Your Home gets wholesale pricing on products – a savings it passes onto customers.

Enhance Your Home’s exceptional service also results in many repeat customers. “We recently did a second renovation for a client,” Kaminsky says. “We renovated their home in Lake Bonavista in 2009 and they were so pleased they asked us to take a look at a prospective new home in Diamond Cove. They had fallen in love with the home, but wanted some professional advice on design and renovation cost before purchasing it.” In the end EYH renovated the entire main living area and exterior of the home, improving the functionality and giving it a more modern look.

If you’re planning a renovation project, drop by Enhance Your Home Renovations showroom or call 403.278.8739.

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BEFORE BEFORE

BEFORE

yo ur

Renovations

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Feature

Kitchen renovations

ensure function and style

by HeatHer ryan

From new countertops and cabinets to window coverings

and even fireplaces, a much needed renovation can transform your tired kitchen into a modern, functional space.

“Doing a kitchen renovation can be daunting for many people, but our customers find the outcome is worth it,” says Frank Gordon-Cooper, owner of Kurmak Builders. “When you see the old kitchen beside the new it’s amazing… you start out with a drab, outdated kitchen and make it into a functional, stylish design that looks great and people can see the value in that.”

Many people wanting to do a kitchen renovation are tired of the old yellow oak cabinets and outdated appliances, he says, and want to update their kitchen and make it more modern.

“A lot of people are getting rid of the dining room and enlarging the kitchen and making the island as big as they can to create more prep space and more counter space,” he says. “We’re also taking out the old walk-in pantries and building more cabinetry.”

Particularly with older homes that would traditionally have walls separating the kitchen from dining and living areas,

pictured top

Delicatus Taupe Granite, photo supplied by Alberta Marble & Tile pictured bottom

Juperana Persa, photo supplied by Alberta Marble & Tile 20

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pictured top leFt

A view from both rooms, photo supplied by Hearth & Home Fireplaces pictured top rigHt

Clean Face, photo supplied by of Hearth & Home Fireplaces pictured bottom

Homeowner wanted an eco friendly choice for their cabinetry. Superior Cabinets Fusion Line offers a selection of hand finished products.Photos courtesy of Superior Cabinets

there is a trend toward opening the space to make room for a great room design. “We take out a lot of walls between dining rooms and kitchens because people want more space for the kitchen,” Gordon-Cooper says. “They also like the really big islands because they’re a place to socialize, prep food and sit at while reading the morning paper.”

Homeowners also take advantage of a renovation to install new, modern appliances such as counter depth fridges that blend seamlessly into the cabinetry, microwave drawers and wine fridges built into islands.

“The kitchen is where people spend a great deal of time for meals and entertaining so they want it to be comfortable, functional and reflect their personality,” Gordon-Cooper says.

The trend in kitchen cabinetry is moving away from dark espresso tones. “My clients are lightening things up with mediumtoned wood, exotic species such as Wenge or Lacquered cabinets in white and cream,” says Jennean Norris, senior design consultant at Superior Cabinets.

“In terms of profiles, simplicity seems to be

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the key. Fewer people are asking for heavily detailed profiles. It is a Transitional Look that is very on-trend,” she says. “Choosing profiles and colours that are transitional gives people the flexibility to change the look of their homes in years to come.

“A transitional kitchen becomes the perfect backdrop to a range of styles and trends, and helps appeal to the masses when it comes time to sell your home,” she says.

Norris agrees that “there is a definite trend towards gigantic islands in renovations.

I just designed a seven foot by seven foot island where there was space for a laptop, prep sink, raised seating and a chopping area. People are maximizing their spaces and being thoughtful of every last inch.”

The design possibilities for islands are endless and with all of the extras that they now house, islands are quickly becoming the dramatic focal point of renovations, she says.

New countertops and backsplashes can set the tone and colour for your kitchen renovation, says Cindy Buechler, design consultant at Alberta Marble & Tile. “I usually suggest to people that they should

pictured bottom

White kitchens with wood accents are on trend for 2013. Photos courtesy of Superior Cabinets ON THiS PAGE pictured

Old world charmnew world function, photo courtesy of Hearth & Home Renovation.

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ON THiS PAGE pictured

Entertainers dream, photo courtesy of Hearth & Home Renovation.

ON OPPOSiTE PAGE pictured leFt

Vertiglide Cellular Shade in SemiOpaque fabric allows light to filter into the room. pictured top rigHt

Pirouette Window Shadings- Roll into the Headrail, close for privacy or open for a view through the sheer.

select their countertop first and then pick the backsplash once you get the countertop colours down because there is a much greater selection of colours available in tile than in stone,” she says. “If you’ve selected a tile for your backsplash first you might have a more difficult time finding the countertop.”

Today’s trend in countertops is toward lighter stones such as Alaska White, Bianco Antico and River White, “and we’re seeing a lot of people choose cream cabinets with the light stone.

People are also going the opposite – selecting a dark stone like Titanium with dark cabinets.

“Granite is still the most popular choice for countertops, but we are seeing more people choosing quartz and they’re going for the light colours as well,” Buechler says. “Quartz tends to be a more solid colour; there is not a lot of movement in it and because of that it’s gaining in popularity.”

With backsplashes the trend is toward making them decorative with glass mosaic tiles, different designs and splashes of colour. “With so many choices available a backsplash is where you can really let your personality shine,” Buechler says.

“The trend is toward using more glass and you can get them mixed with stone tile that match the

countertop or stainless steel tiles that really pop and match your stainless steel appliances.”

You’ll also want to consider including new coverings in the renovation project. Sheila, owner of Sheila’s Window Toppers & More, says polysatin shutters are popular for kitchen windows because they’re durable, come in white or cream colours and easy to clean.

“People want window treatments in their kitchen that look good and can wipe down easily because of all the mess that’s created when cooking.”

For the sliding glass doors, she suggests Vertiglide – a fabric honeycomb vertical shade that runs sideways “so it moves like a door and you can move it to whatever position you want; and it stacks back to six inches so you can have lots of natural light,” she says.

“For fabric treatments we’re doing valances with a boxed look and cornice boxes so it’s a flatter style for windows over the kitchen sink or in the nook,” Sheila says, adding that real wood blinds that match the cabinets with two- or two-and-a-half-inch slats are also gaining popularity and they’re easy to maintain as well.

A popular addition in kitchen renovations is the

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ON OP

pictur

Britan custo the n gorge featu island and m Photo Kurm

ON OPPOSiTE PAGE pictured

The contrast of two-tone cabinets give this beautiful kitchen a fresh, modern look. Photo supplied by Kurmak Builders ON THiS PAGE

ON TH

pictured

pictur

The custom skylight maximizes the natural light in this gorgeous modern kitchen, featuring an oversized island and two-tone cherry and maple cabinets. Photo supplied by Kurmak Builders

Sceni The c cabin kitche look.

Kurm

ToDAY’S TReND IN CouNTeRToPS IS ToWARD LIGHTeR SToNeS SuCH AS ALASKA WHITe, BIANCo ANTICo AND RIVeR WHITe fireplace or wood burning appliance.

“We’re getting more requests for a wood-burning kitchen oven – a Forno oven – which is manufactured in Italy and popular for baking pizza, pastas, breads,” says Preston Meyer, vice-president of marketing for Hearth & Home Fireplace.

“We’re also selling more Heartland stoves that look like the old-fashioned wood cook stoves and we’re seeing more people wanting gas fireplaces in the kitchen with elongated burners with a glass or rock base for a very contemporary look.

The addition of two- or three-way fireplaces shared with the kitchen, dining nook and great room are a growing trend, Meyer says, “because they add to the ambience and look great.”

Tim Snow, manager of Hearth & Home Renovation Division, says a number of people are doing kitchen renovations “because they give the biggest return on investment, especially when it’s done right and shows well in 10 to 15 years. everyone wants that dream kitchen, it’s the centre of the household and people want it to be more user-friendly, a gathering place and something they can take pride in.

“With so many families on the go they don’t have time for big sit down meals in a formal dining room anymore, so we see them want to take out walls and give up that space to expand the kitchen, or they’re taking out the small table in the nook, and putting in a big, multiuse island where the family can congregate for meals.”

When updating the kitchen, “people want to add some luxury much like a spa in the bathroom, so they want features such as drawers with organizers, high-end appliances, solid surface countertops and under-mount sinks,” Snow says.

apr - May 2013 home décor and renovations 27

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Advice From Our KITCHEN KITCHEN Experts Experts

CHBA - Calgary Region

2012

Before

Jasmine Larre, DID Senior Design Consultant Superior Cabinets

a space to balance the distinctive appeal of their cherished pieces.

I recently worked with a homeowner wanting to improve the efficiency and enrich the design of their dated home. The main focus of the renovation was the kitchen. With a very large family, a well-planned space was imperative. They spend a lot of time in their kitchen as they love to cook. Their children also get involved in meal preparation so functionality was very important.

This large family further influenced the need for a substantial space with a continuous flow. It needed to function for a family of seven, so I had to ensure there were no restricted corners. I spent time understanding their daily needs and learned how they worked in their kitchen. This was an essential step in the planning process. The homeowners are collectors of mid-century modern pieces and wanted their decor to reflect their design style. Superior Cabinets has a broad range of products available which enabled me to create

Full height cabinets reaching the nine foot ceiling which maximizes storage. A white ceramic Before backsplash and quartz countertops add an elegance to the space. Storage and functionality were maximized with the integration of a recycling center, magic corner storage units and a pullout pantry.

Recently introducing our Digital Showroom, Superior Cabinets offers clients the opportunity to envision their kitchen in a 3D virtual space that allows them to change cabinet finishes, doorstyles, countertops, flooring, and wall colours. This innovative technology is available on-line at www.superiorcabinets.ca or in our showroom. Our Design Consultants utilized this rendering tool with the homeowners to bring their vision to life prior to committing to the design.

The homeowners love the result. The outcome works perfectly for them and now the entire family congregate comfortably in the kitchen.

Visit One of Our Calgary Showrooms for Design Inspiration:

SE Location: 2505—107th Ave SE 403-258-0744 West Location: 529—1851 Sirocco Drive SW 403-263-3520

Showroom Locations: Calgary SE . Calgary West . Edmonton

.

Fort McMurray . Saskatoon . Regina

Meet our team of Design Experts Cal Reno 03-2013.indd 28

www.superiorcabinets.ca *try our on-line Design Tool—Digital Showroom*

3/13/13 4:28:21 PM

0

Gienow windows & doors

businessproFile

Gienow windows & doors

oFFers complete installation package by heather ryan

F

or more than 65 years Gienow has made its mark in designing and manufacturing outstanding windows and doors, so it’s not surprising that homeowners are turning to Gienow for their renovations.

Founded in 1947, Gienow Windows & Doors traditionally sold windows and doors to the home-building industry, to renovators and directly to the public, says Dallas Paquette, director of Gienow’s Retail and Corporate Service divisions.

“Recently, we’ve renewed our focus on renovations because we see a great opportunity as cities start to mature and homeowners are putting more money into renovating,” he says.

“Sometimes they just need to replace their windows or doors and are looking for a company they have confidence in and understands their needs.

“Our long-term view is to provide a service to homeowners that adds value, so our philosophy is to take care of them through the complete process,” he says. “When doing a

renovation with us customers don’t have to deal with going through a separate contractor, supplier and manufacturer; it’s all us, so if they have a question or concern they just have to make one phone call.

“We handle the entire job from designing and manufacturing of the product, to removing and taking away the old product, doing the installation and providing a warranty,” Paquette says.

“Getting the product and installation directly from us is also a big cost benefit to the customer.”

And customers know that with Gienow’s 65-plus years of experience they’re getting quality products that are energy efficient, safe and designed to improve their home’s appearance and comfort. Gienow also stands by its work providing a 10-year warranty on labour and a lifetime warranty on product.

To book a renovation project or for more information, visit gienow.com or call the Calgary branch at 403.203.8270.

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VISIT OUR SHOWROOM AT: 7140 - 40 STREET S.E., CALGARY | 403.203.8270 | GIENOW.COM apr - May 2013 home décor and renovations 29

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FEATURE

A breath of

fresh air

by MICKEY FOULDS

WE RECENTLY HAD THE PLEASURE OF VISITING THE LAS VEGAS WORLD MARKET 2013, the preeminent total home

market - 1,500 global exhibitors in one location to offer buyers, designers and industry professionals the latest trends in home furnishings. Three multistory buildings filled with vendors from all four corners of the world with rich displays of exciting, beautiful and desirable products.

My attention was caught by a new trend in colour and design, one of exuberance and sheer joy. Exquisite colour combinations of white, greens, blues, yellows and a truly lovely coral red. Bright, vibrant summery shades with white as the background neutral. Many of the patterns are lighthearted florals which are perfectly complemented by the trellis designs which made their appearance last year. A 30 home dĂŠcor and renovations apr - may 2013

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IT CLEARLY IS TIME TO BRING BRIGHTNESS AND ENERGY INTO OUR HOMES.

wonderful selection of flat woven rugs will be adding another layer to this more casual look.

It clearly is time to bring brightness and energy into our homes. Winter has lasted long enough and spring is just around the corner with our daylight hours steadily increasing. It’s time to think about the garden and start planning what it will look like this year, and interiors could well be mirroring gardens, with us bringing the outdoors in.

Take a look around your home. If it feels too heavy, formal or serious (or maybe even dated and boring) it may be time to refresh. A great deal can be achieved quickly and reasonably economically by updating the accessories. Start by removing all the smaller elements from the room, such

as decorative accessories, pillows, artwork and lamps (or just the lampshades if they aren’t great). Rugs could be included too. You will be left with all the larger pieces of furniture.

Identify your style – is it contemporary and minimalistic, or traditional? Most homes are somewhere in between and would then be defined as transitional with clean, soft lines and a sense of warmth and comfort without being too cluttered. Your style defines what you should be looking for, so stay consistent.

Identify your colour scheme. You do not need to adhere slavishly to it and could add unexpected jolts of other colour.

Also remember that you need not match shades of a particular colour exactly. For example if one of your accent colours is blue, the shade can vary from one accessory piece to another.

If you look for an exact match it will look flat and contrived. It is often easiest to pull your colour scheme from an inspiration piece, such as a favourite picture, upholstery fabric or pattern on a dinner service. For a bright summery look go to lighter colour tones. Light shades of green ranging from chartreuse to emerald are generally very neutral (because they occur so apr - May 2013 home décor and renovations 31

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A CONTEMPORARY RUG GOES A LONG WAY TO GIVING A ROOM A LIFT. PLAIN COLOURS WITH A BIT OF TEXTURE

much in nature) and great to include for a fresh look (however, be careful if you have red as a dominant colour when you add green, because you don’t want Christmas all year round!!).

Assess your lamps and lighting. Ideally each room will have about 5 sources of light which include ceiling lamps, table lamps, reading lamps etc. Some are task lighting and others for ambience. You can often update by adding some lamps or updating the lampshades to shapes that have clean lines such as barrel shades, in a soft white colour. The majority of homes we see do not have enough lighting.

A contemporary rug goes a long way to giving a room a lift. Plain colours with a bit of texture – shag is still popular and wonderfully soft underfoot – add interest. Alternatively the current flat weave carpets come in a huge variety of patterns and colours and are very affordable. For those who wish to splurge there has been a revolution in oriental rugs and everything from the classics to wonderful contemporary design is now available in high quality products.

Throw pillows add a tremendous amount of character and interest to a room, and contribute greatly to setting the tone and adding a splash of colour. They are extremely useful for pulling a room together, for example if you have a red sofa and a blue chair you can coordinate these seemingly disparate elements by finding pillows with a red and blue pattern for both. It immediately looks intentional and coordinated.

Artwork is extremely important in expressing your style and too frequently we see dated frames and faded prints which instantly make the space feel jaded. Find pieces that speak

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CONSIDER YOUR ACCESSORIES – DO THEY CREATE A SENSE OF CLUTTER AND DISORDER OR IS EACH PIECE DISPLAYED IN SUCH A WAY THAT IT SHOWS WELL. to you, and use simple streamlined frames for a timeless look. If the frames are still good then consider changing the prints, and alternatively, if the prints and pictures are valued memorabilia consider reframing. There has been a shift in artwork lately, as we saw in Vegas Market. Overall art was more colourful, brighter with more white matting and backgrounds. Florals were well represented and there were less moody, muddy coloured pieces.

Consider your accessories – do they create a sense of clutter and disorder or is each piece displayed in such a way that it shows well. Too often there are too many small pieces on display and the end result is that nothing looks attractive or stands out. Be selective, and if purchasing new pieces select larger ones for greater impact. An excellent way to learn how

N N R Love Where You Live

enovating your home will be one of your greatest accomplishments, but at the same time it can be very overwhelming. Which tile is best for my bathroom décor… which fi nish should I get for my custom cabinets? We are here to make your job easier. Our dedicated sales, administration and tradespeople are part of your team… with on-staff designers and a design center to inspire and guide you, you can rest assured that in the end you will love where you live.

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to accessorise is to go the showrooms of stores like Urban Barn and Crate & Barrel, and see how their product is displayed. If you are out shopping and see something that appeals to you, stop and ask yourself where it will be placed in your home. If you do that then sometimes that huge Mexican hat may not be such a good idea after all.

If it all seems overwhelming consider hiring a decorator or designer for an hour

or two – they will give you a host of great ideas of how to work with what you own, which pieces are due for retirement and what you need to get up to speed, and where to find it.

If you go through this “interior audit”, in next to no time you too will have a breath of fresh air that has swept through your home, and will be sitting pretty for the summer!

MICKEY FOULDS MSC CID CRSS Metamorphosis Design Ltd. phone 403.651.3462 email metamorphosisdesign@shaw.ca

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SPRING

Inspiration APRIL - MAY 2013

PHOTO COURTESY OF WICKER LAND PATIO

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getting your outdoor spaces READY FOR THE SEASON 3/13/13 4:28:35 PM

homeandgarDen

GEttInG Your outdoor spacEs

reaDy for the SeaSon!

by Bonny Dann

I

n Canada our outdoor living season is so short, we all want to enjoy absolutely every moment of it that we can, so it helps to prepare for it in the most time efficient way and start as early as possible. One of the earliest gardening tasks

you can do is pruning which can be started in late winter. If you are not hiring a professional make sure you research which trees and shrubs should be pruned before you start. As a general rule most trees can be pruned early with the exception of Birch and Maples which need to be pruned after their rapid spring growth has finished. Shrubs that flower in the spring on buds that are formed in the fall or flower on old wood such as Lilacs, Nanking Cherries, White flowering Spireas, Forsythia, Double flowering Plums should be pruned after they have bloomed. Summer flowering shrubs, such as Japanese Spireas, Hydrangeas, and Potentilla produce flower buds on new growth in the spring, prune these when they are dormant or in early spring before bud break. Now that you have either hired a professional to prune your trees and flowering shrubs in late winter or early spring or have completed that task yourself we can move on to other areas of your gardens!

If you have Roses, as they are very heavy feeders, add manure to each one as soon as it is available in the garden centres. The Roses will also need fertilizing once a month throughout spring and summer. You can either use Rose fertilizer or the same one you use on your perennials each month. We use only organic, granular, time released fertilizers on lawns and beds because it only releases when it has received the proper amount of moisture. Regardless, always water well after fertilizing! If you want to be cautious use milorganite 6-2-0 on your perennials and flowering shrubs. We use other fertilizers on gardens we maintain and I do in my own gardens also. I use a 16-4-10 to

EscapEs Inc.

increase bloom production but you really need to be diligent with the watering after using it or you can easily burn your plants rather than feed them! If you have Evergreens purchase a fertilizer specifically for them. Evergreens prefer acidic soil and our native soil is quite alkaline. You can also, if you compost, add things like coffee grounds to make the compost more acidic.

Hemerocallis, or daylilies, also prefer an acidic soil but seem to adapt and do quite well in our area. Once you have added the manure to the Roses add compost to all of your shrub and perennial beds. If you have small planting areas you can purchase it in bags, for larger areas you can either pick it up by the cubic yard or have it delivered. I like to add wood chip mulch to all beds after the compost as it helps retain moisture and helps suppress weed seed germination. It can be purchased in the same ways compost can. You can also have a reputable landscaping company supply and install your compost and mulch if you would rather not do it yourself.

Your lawn will need a good spring clean up, power raking, power vacuuming and aerating as well as fertilizing. This can be done as soon as the frost is out of the ground. Again, your favourite landscaping company can provide this service as you need the right power equipment and it is a dirty, dusty, not fun chore! A healthy lawn requires one inch of water a week and should be fertilized monthly. We use a high quality organic, granular time release fertilizer on the lawns we maintain that is actually commonly used on golf greens. Cease fertilizing everything except your lawn in August so the plant material can slow down their growth and blooming to prepare to go dormant for the winter. Lawns however can benefit from an application

pIcturEs bY EaGlE lakE nursErIEs

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of winter fertilizer in the fall. We use a 7-2-28 winter fertilizer which is high in potash and helps prevent winter kill.

If you have vegetable gardens or areas you plant annuals in either till them or turn the soil over by hand with a garden fork adding in compost and/or manure. Follow the seeding instructions for vegetables or research which crops can be planted early etc. I have a kitchen garden on my deck where I grow all the herbs I use in cooking, salad greens and tomatoes.

I buy herbs and tomatoes as bedding out plants but I sow Spinach and mixed salad greens in large pots and that can be done quite early as both are cool weather crops. The herbs and tomatoes, like annual flowering plants, should not be put out until after the risk of frost has past, which in some areas such as Calgary can be a challenge and you may have to cover them some nights! Flowering shrubs, Evergreens and perennials can normally be planted out as soon as they are available at a reputable garden centre. Some years when we have a late spring you may want to “harden them off� by putting them out in the warmer part of the day and bringing them back in for the cool nights, the same way you would harden off seedlings if you were starting from seed.

Now that we have covered all the softscape areas we can move on to hardscape! If you have any areas that are covered in pea stone, rundle, or other fine rock, early spring is the time to top them up! Like compost and mulch you can purchase most rock in small bags or either pick up or have delivered by the cubic yard. Shovelling and raking any type of rock is heavy work so again you could call your landscapers and they will take care of it for you.

All wooden structures, decks, pergolas, arbours, etc., will need the stain redone every couple of years to keep them looking their best. I use the same painting company all the time and like to arrange in the fall to have those jobs done first thing in the spring so as to maximize use of my outdoor spaces. If you are doing it yourself, I only did once with the help of a male friend, power wash everything first but make sure it is thoroughly dry and check the weather network and make sure

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you have enough sunny weather ahead of you to let the stain dry! Likewise, if you have stone or paver patios, power wash them and let them dry thoroughly before sealing. Sealing pavers is an efficient way to protect them from weather elements and preserve their appearance. While sealant reduces maintenance and makes the surface easier to clean it does need to be reapplied, according to the manufacturers, every 2 or 3 years

depending on the sealant used and the amount of traffic and the weather your pavers are exposed to. I have my own done every year and I prefer the gloss finish, I like how the rain drops and irrigation bubbles on it but you can use a flat finish if you prefer that look. You apply it with a pan and roller but make sure you roll it evenly so as not to leave lines or streaks.

Now that all of your outdoor living spaces are ready for our short but intense season, drag the outdoor furniture out of storage and clean according to manufacturer’s instructions, clean that grill you have been using all winter, and pour the first drink of the season! Enjoy!

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tipsandtricks

Building a DetacheD GaraGe by vaneSSa gaSh

Spring iS in the air! aS the Snow beginS to diSappear,

many of us look ahead to the building projects we’d like to undertake. With the ground beginning to thaw, detached garages are popular projects that we see this time of year.

Most building supply and home improvement stores offer garage packages to their customers. These packages include all the materials required to construct your garage including manufactured trusses. Obtaining a building permit for a package garage is very straightforward. Applications are accepted at the third floor counter of the Municipal Building.

Package garages require only two copies of your Real Property Report (RPR) or site plan with information on the size and location of the garage you wish to build. Non package garages

will also require additional drawings as outlined in the brochure. A bylaw check will be conducted at the counter to ensure you are within the allowable lot coverage and meet the requirements for your area. Once you meet the bylaw requirements, your garage permit can typically be issued during your visit.

There are a few building code iTems To keep in mind when deTermining The size and locaTion of your garage: proximity to property lineS

• Side walls are permitted to be constructed up to the property line providing the exterior finish is a maintenance free material.

• Walls located closer than 0.6m (2ft) to the property line must be fire rated.

This is achieved by installing 5/8”thick fire rated gypsum board to the inside face of the wall from concrete slab to underside of roof sheathing.

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tipsandtricks location of eaveS

• Eaves are not permitted within 0.45m (18”) of the property line.

• It may seem confusing that exterior walls are permitted to be constructed on the property line but eaves are not allowed to be closer than 18”. It simply means that walls closer than 18” to the property line are not permitted to have an overhang. The eave in this case must be flush with the wall.

• Additionally, vented soffit is not permitted within 1.2m (4ft) of the property line. Soffits within this area must be nonventing or installed with a solid backing behind the soffit.

opening for the garage door, the header (beam support) over the door must be sized accordingly to support the additional load. In these cases your garage package supplier should provide with a beam run calculation to submit with your building permit application.

When considering any building project it is a good idea to visit the City website www.Calgary.ca to download the application form. Doing this will help you be prepared prior to submitting an application. If you have questions regarding your permit that are not answered on the City of Calgary website please call 3-1-1 and a customer service representative will be happy to connect you to the appropriate person to answer your questions.

concrete Slab on grade

• Garages up to 55m² (592ft²) are permitted to be built as slab on grade. This covers most typical double car garages. If you are building a larger garage however, you will be required to install frost walls 1.2m (4ft) below grade. vaneSSa gaSh, lEEd aP roof orientation

• Sometimes applicants will decide to install their roof trusses running front to back rather than side to side.

This is often done to improve aesthetics where flush eaves are required.

• When trusses are installed front to back, they bear weight on the front and rear walls. Since the front wall has a large

Safety codeS officer - reSidential building regulationS diviSion development and building approvalS

Vanessa gash is a Residential Plans Examiner with the Building Regulations division at the City of Calgary. She is a graduate in architectural Engineering Technology from College of the north atlantic and spent a number of years with various architectural firms and homebuilders in Calgary.

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tipsandtricks

A dose of reAlity

by Hellen Buttigieg you wAnt everytHing to fit AwAy neAtly, display perfectly and know exactly where everything is when you need it. That’s what being organized is all about. But is that realistic? Each space, each person and each system is different. What worked for some may not work for you. You may have limitations on space or be too overwhelmed by stuff for a quick fix. The demands on your lifestyle and your family’s needs may outweigh the space in your home. Being organized doesn’t happen overnight and it doesn’t have a finish line. Getting organized is a process, learn what works for you.

Keeping it real. You’ll never get organized. Read that again. Yes, that’s what I said. You’ll never get organized because being perfectly organized is not a realistic expectation. Just to be clear, organization is not a destination. You don’t just wake up one day and find that you’ve arrived. It’s a process - a work in progress. So if you are judging yourself against unrealistic expectations, or holding back on pursuing a goal because you are waiting until you ‘get organized, once and for all’, perhaps it’s time to look at things differently.

It’s time to

switch things up

SpringCreditHorzAd-15.625x4.9-CalgHomeDecor.indd 44 home décor and renovations apr - may 20131

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Instead of trying to get organized, strive to become more and more organized every day. Doesn’t that feel more attainable? Instead of feeling stuck, you’ll be able to take a step forward.

Use your instincts. Are you surrounded by piles of papers on your desk, your floor and any other flat surface in your office? Don’t fight your instincts, work with them. Rather than trying to adapt to traditional ways of filing, like using a lateral filing cabinet, use horizontal methods instead. Use stacking trays or literature sorters, which can be placed on your desk or installed on the wall.

Now label them with the categories you use most. It will be easier to adapt to filing papers when you don’t have to change your piling habit.

Let go and let it flow. Are you holding on to things that you’ll never use again?

Very often people unconsciously jam their homes full of stuff because the sheer volume gives them a feeling of comfort and security. If you are

operating from a need for abundance, remember that your success as a person has nothing to do with all the outdated or rarely used stuff overflowing from your closets. In fact, it’s probably blocking your prosperity. Let go of what you don’t need to make room for new things to come into your life.

Plan before decluttering. Before beginning any de-cluttering project, determine in advance how you will dispose of the items you no longer want. If you have valuable pieces and would like to sell them, decide whether you will do this yourself or hire someone to do it for you. If you would like them to go to charity, which one and where are they located? Some charities will pick up, so call them to find out when they will be in your area.

It’s not until those boxes and bags leave your home that you will reap the full rewards of de-cluttering. Planning in advance will curb procrastination and ensure full completion of the task.

feeling stuck? If you find yourself backsliding when it comes to maintaining your organizing systems, don’t berate yourself, as this will sap your energy and prevent you from doing anything about it. Rather than dwelling on what went wrong, focus instead on what needs to be done. Just say “oops” and move on to taking action.

Hellen Buttigieg Hellen Buttigieg, CPo, is a Certified Professional organizer, life coach, TV host, author and owner of We organize U. Visit her website, weorganizeu.com, for a free e-Book on how to find more time, energy and inner peace. Contact Hellen at 905.829.2219 or info@weorganizeu.com

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feAtURe

A kitchen

You can live with by adene lucas

Recently I met wIth two dIffeRent clIents who

were dissatisfied with their kitchens. One wanted to tear out the entire room and start over, while the other was simply running out of room and patience with the lack of storage in the current space. Often people think that in order to get what they want they need to start over or move and that is rarely the case. Since a kitchen renovation can be very costly as well very disruptive I provided both families with a few alternatives to see if we could improve the kitchen without an overhaul.

Although each kitchen needed improvements and a fresh

look, neither one needed to be gutted yet both clients were under the impression that starting over was the only way.

My theory is that the assault of glossy home decor magazines, with shiny new kitchens makes people think this way. It is so enticing to see the “after” shots with dream kitchens. I too, am guilty of wandering through open houses or show homes and seeing different ideas that make me dream of ripping out my three year old kitchen. Then I get home and realize that’s not possible and instead put those ideas into my work. Fear not, there are many ways to refresh a stale kitchen, and create functional space.

Repurpose The first kitchen was simply outdated but the foot print worked well. The flow of the space was efficient, and the size of the kitchen was adequate so a tear down was not the right option. The large family needed more cabinets and counter space as well as a food preparation area. Since the dining room was adjacent to the open kitchen I suggested replacing the kitchen table with a working island and using the dining table as the primary eating area. After a few conceptual drawings, family meetings and trade meetings, the plan was a reality. We had cabinets installed on site that matched the

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FeAr NOT, There Are MANy WAyS TO reFreSh A STAle kITcheN, ANd creATe FuNcTIONAl SPAce. existing oak ones. The interior of the cabinets were outfitted with roller drawers for easy access and the corner cabinets with drawer slides for maximum storage. Pull out recycling bins and inserts to maximize storage were added to the existing cabinets. To update the oak cabinets, new hardware was added and a few strategically placed inserts of waterfall glass were added to conceal unsightly items and break up the wall of oak. We also added new granite counter tops in the old kitchen and the new peninsula. For added ease, a slab of granite was installed on an open ledge that bordered the dining room and kitchen. This created a pass thru for extra hot plates or to serve as a buffet station when hosting larger groups. In both areas the cabinetry and granite were tied in with a new backsplash to create a seamless cohesive look.

Mission accomplished! Now the family has exactly what they needed.

More storage, more counter space, a fresh look and a dining room that always gets used. In addition, we made the peninsula high enough and with granite over hang so that stools could be used if additional seating was required. Of course we could have gone in there and ripped out the kitchen and put in brand new cabinets and had a completely new look.

Instead, we started with the current kitchen and just made it better.

Before you commit to getting a bin on your drive way, think clearly about the existing space, is it functional, are the cabinets a quality product, does that space work? If so cosmetic changes are effective, less time consuming and disruptive and let’s not forget a lot less expensive!

The second kitchen had similar problems with different solutions.

Again, I was brought in to address a kitchen tear out. After listening to their concerns and their reasoning for a complete renovation I knew they apr - May 2013 home dĂŠcor and renovations 47

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really just wanted a new look, not a new kitchen. By the end of the consultation, I had steered my clients away from that idea and provided the following suggestions. update the white appliances with stainless steel, replace the laminate counters, add an under mounted sink. replace all the hardware on the cabinet doors and add cabinet molding to the upper banks to create a more tailored look. Of course they had to replace the outdated lighting so the kitchen no longer looked like an operating room. I could see the relief as the couple started thinking of the possibilities as well as the money they would save.

Sometimes an overhaul is needed. In my case, I did updates in my kitchen on the first round and lived with it for many years while my children were young. Those small improvements bought me time and allowed me to really think about what I wanted.

The next round I was prepared to start over and did just that. everything is new and functional, now I just need to stay out of show homes.

Counter Tops Nothing screams the 1980’s like a 6x6 ceramic tile counter, the grout is chipped and dirty and the look is just out dated. To prepare food on an uneven surface daily is certainly a limitation, not to mention you need to constantly remind yourself of where you place things in order to avoid the grout lines. For a more seamless look I suggest granite. There are countless counter top materials that are worth researching. however, granite is the standard upgrade in counters.

Selecting a more exotic stone can create a high impact in an otherwise typical kitchen. Many people like the flow of colors, the veining and even the crystal flecks that granite can have. Granite has a luxurious look and feel and it’s a huge improvement from laminate in terms of appeal and functionality.

According to the Marble Institute (yes, there is such a thing) there are over 900 types of granite coming from 63 different countries. Of course the exotic granite needs to tie in with the existing kitchen and that is where the backsplash comes in.

Backsplash Stainless steel, glass, ceramic, marble, or even a combination of those materials are all used for a backsplash. Personally I avoid the trends as I did that once in my own kitchen and learned that a cute little pear in ceramic is not so cute in five years. Stay true to the look of your home and cabinetry and bring samples home. I highly recommend going to tile or flooring stores for the best selection. It is also wise to shop with a cabinet door and a sample of the counter top 48 home dĂŠcor and renovations apr - may 2013

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want a new

material you will be using. If you’re completely terrified of making a mistake, ask for help. Icon Stone and Tile is great because the carry the best granite slabs, coordinate the tiles, and provide samples. Of course hiring an expert is also a good idea as they should be familiar with what’s available and how it can work in your home.

Appliance and the Like If harvest Gold or Avocado Green is your friend its time to shop for new appliances. Outdated appliances can really hold back a kitchen. I know it’s tough to replace your appliances when they working, but if one goes, its time to start on a new path and not try to keep matching an out dated look. Appliance manufactures do have great sales and you need to do your research before getting caught up in a name. It’s typically cheaper to buy into a package or ask about last year’s models to save money. light fixtures are another kitchen upgrade that can dramatically improve the look of your space.

It’s one of those things that you may not notice but when a great fixture is added it can make a room.

Typically people don’t replace the fixtures as they are in use and working. updating or adding under cabinet lighting can improve the entire look and feel of the room. recently I went to an open house for a new build. The home was empty but the light fixtures were amazing. They were glamorous; they caught my eye and created a wow factor. This was a smart builder because when showing an empty house the fixtures do stand out.

Small Scale If the thought of all these changes is just too much, start small. Add luxurious linens in an accent color, fresh flowers in a beautiful vase, or a small herb tray on the window sill. roll out a runner in front of the sink in a complimentary color or a fun pattern. remove a few cabinet doors, use wood filler for the hinges and display your best wares. If that fails, dim the lights add a few candles and flip through the latest décor magazines and start dreaming.

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Book a design consultation now and take advantage of our “10 Free Thing” Anniversary promotion. apr - May 2013 home décor and renovations 49

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The Pinnacle of

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FEATURE

STAGING101 by laura le Putting your home on the real estate market can

be a daunting exercise. It is best to approach it in a businesslike and methodical manner. With most of us a house is the largest investment we make but it is also an emotional purchase because of the intimacy we all experience in our homes. I have seen emotions get in the way of the sale of a property many times because children were born and raised there or it was purchased right after a marriage or it being sold because of divorce.

Staging is an excellent way to begin the emotional detachment from the home. Neutralizing each room by packing away collectables and family photos is a fantastic place to start. Involving the children in this process can help them by getting them excited about the move. Get boxes and/or bins and have them separate items into three piles; one for donation to charity, one for packing for the new house and one for keeping. I always suggest a second edit of the one for packing for the new house and keeping using a ratio of one to keep and three to pack for the new house. I have found children

respond well when they are included in the decision making. It is not an easy process but it will be extremely beneficial when you have to prepare the property for a viewing by a potential buyer. If possible, it is great if toys, sports equipment, etc. can be contained in their respective bedrooms or the family room leaving the formal or common areas clutter-free.

Keeping the house as clean and tidy at all times helps relieve some of the stress of selling. Tidy each night before bed so there is not the feeling of panic when your real estate agent calls to say there is a viewing during the day when everyone is at work or school. It is so much easier if the “stuff� we collect over our lifetime is minimal then there is less cleaning and tidying to do.

In the kitchen, keep only the appliances used daily on the counter, put the knife block set in the cupboard or pantry as well as the container full of spatulas and wooden spoons. The knife block set is a security risk to the agents and the vase full of utensils suggests a lack of storage in the drawers. In the washrooms put all garbage cans, toilet brushes and plungers

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Staging iS an excellent way to begin the emotional detachment from the home. neutralizing each room by packing away collectableS and family photoS iS a fantaStic place to Start. apr - May 2013 home dĂŠcor and renovations 53

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curb appeal iS very important aS it iS what getS the potential buyerS out of the car when they arrive.

away. None of these things are pretty to look at so they do not need to be visible.

The same goes for laundry baskets, store them in the closet. Speaking of the closet; neat and tidy with as much floor space discernible is preferable. Edit and pack the closets using a similar system as the toy three pile system used with the kids. The beds in the bedrooms should feel welcoming and opulent. If you have ever visited a showhome you may have noticed each bedroom has beautiful bedding and lots of pillows giving the visitor a feeling of wanting to crawl into the bed, thus wanting to live in that particular home. On HGTV there are many programs that portray buyers looking at purchasing a property. If the room is staged properly you will often see the buyer stretched out on the bed talking about how they perceive the room. It is always positive if the room is inviting and feels and smells clean.

In all rooms arrange the furniture so architectural focal points are highlighted. Do not place the loveseat in front of the fireplace because you don’t care about having a fireplace or a chair in front of a doorway because it is the only way that chair fits in the room and it is right in front of the television. Store any excess furniture that is making the room look cluttered or is too large.

Curb appeal is very important as it is what gets the potential buyers out of the car when they arrive. The yard and sidewalk need to look well maintained. Shoveling done in the winter and grass and flower beds looked after in the summer. I have seen many vacant properties where these things are ignored. The majority of buyers are looking for move-in ready and are not interested in spending time getting the yard in shape at the same time as they are unpacking. Also, do not have silk plants outside that would not be alive with the season we are currently enjoying‌ivy does not survive in -20!

Now you are ready for the photographs that are going to get the potential buyers from searching online to your front door. Only post exterior photographs that are current to the time of year. If your yard is beautiful in the spring and summer but you are selling in the winter have the photos in an album on the kitchen counter or flashing on a digital screen. The reason for this is it looks like the property may have been on the market for a long time so there may be something wrong with it. Wide

angle photographs are only necessary for small rooms and are often very deceiving because they can distort the space and make rooms look much larger than they actually are. Also, photograph the flow of one room into another; this ensures buyers can get a feel for the whole space and not just individual rooms.

If all of these steps are completed the property will be ready to sell. You will have begun the emotional separation from the property. And, the editing will have made it easier for you to always be prepared for a viewing.

laura le creative enhancement inc. laura le has owned creative enhancement for about seven years. laura completed courses with accredited Staging professionals(aSp), canadian Staging. professionals(cSp) and canadian redesign association (crda). creative enhancement has been a member of the bbb since 2005. phone 403.807.8591 email laurale@shaw.ca | www.creativeenhancement.ca

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stylefilE

Get organized in the

bedroom BY yanIc sImard

PHOTO BY TED YARWOOD

It’s your favourIte tIme of year.

It’s time for spring cleaning, which means it’s time to clear the clutter and get organized!

Bedroom organizing is often last on the list because it’s a room that not many people see, but it should really be a priority because having this room under control will make your life a whole lot easier. And I’ll admit it – usually I’m the one who procrastinates until I have no choice but to do it! There are so many hiding spots and creative storage ideas for those items that don’t have a “home.”

Under the bed What’s under your bed? If your bed doesn’t have fixed drawers already, make your own “closet on wheels” by attaching casters to wooden boxes. Paint them or stain them to match the colour of your bed to make them disappear into the furniture. electronics drawer Dedicate one drawer in one of your night stands to charge your cell phone, MP3 player, headset and the like. Cut a small hole in the back of the bedside table to feed wires of the chargers through, and be sure there is an outlet close by. Close the drawer and the mess is gone!

Jewelry & accessory storage There are many beautiful jewelry boxes and holders that look great on a dresser, if you’ve got the room. If you consider yourself crafty, try making your own!

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stylefilE

PHOTO BY lENi jOHNSTON

dIy Project All you need is an old cabinet door and some kitchen cabinetry hardware: knobs, pulls and hooks. Mount the assorted hardware to the cabinet door as you please and voilà! It’s a beautiful display piece for necklaces, which can hang on the knobs, earrings can rest on the pulls, and bracelets can dangle from the hooks. Mount it to your wall and it can double as artwork. umbra’s Little Black dress (pictured above) is another smart and savvy way to store your bling. Shaped just like your little black dress, it’s got clear pockets all over it for storage, and it can all be hung in your closet – out of sight, our of mind, until you need it! the power of pegboard Vertical space is often wasted space, and in the closet there is a ton of it! Installing pegboard to the walls in your closet will give you so much added storage you never even knew you had. Add hooks or nails to the pegboard, which will serve as spots to hang your belts, purses and scarves. Paint the pegboard the same colour as your walls for a seamless look. seasonal clothing Soon the summer clothes will be coming out, which means the winter clothes will need to be stored away. Have you ever thought of using your travel luggage as a storage place for these bulky items? When the seasons change, do the switch! it’s all an illUsion Taking five minutes out of every day to complete simple tasks in the bedroom like making the beds, keeping drawers and doors shut, and neatly folding linens and clothes. This will make your bedroom appear to be a lot more organized and a lot less cluttered.

yanic simard Yanic is the design editor of New Condo Guide and principal designer of Toronto interior Design Group. Specializing in residential and commercial projects, Yanic often applies his signature high/ low and old/new combination techniques in developing his unique designs. He has created designs for clients in Toronto, Montreal and Miami, and appears as a regular guest expert on Citytv’s Cityline. tidg.ca • facebook.com/yanic.simard • twitter.com/yanicsimard

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RENOMARK

A home renovation

starts earlier than you think

by BRYAN TUCKEY

RENOVATION SEASON HAS FINALLY ARRIVED and I would like to use this opportunity to review some tips from professional RenoMark contractors to ensure your project goes as smoothly as possible.

The Canadian Home Builders’ Association asked a group of renovators what design and planning advice they most often give to their customers, and their first response was: know why you want to renovate.

Ask yourself; what problems are you trying to solve? Most renovations begin with practical issues such as a cramped bathroom, a need for additional storage space or a change in household formation that requires children’s playrooms or studies.

It’s also important to evaluate the structure, systems and general condition of your house. With your renovator, list the repairs and replacements likely to be required over the next two, five and 10 years. If necessary, be prepared to make trade-offs between lifestyle improvements and work needed to keep your home in good shape.

You can save money by working with some of your home’s hidden strengths. Check under existing carpeting and sheet flooring for old hardwood flooring or refinish old trim and moulding rather than replace it. Keep in mind that it is more cost-effective to resurface cabinets rather than install new ones.

Focus on keeping things simple. You’d be surprised how quickly a complex design can result in complicated and expensive construction. Whether you want to build on to your home, change roof lines or reconfigure interior space, consult with a professional renovator on the impact of design on construction and budget. Less complex designs will often let you achieve the same goals but, in a more affordable way.

Don’t cut corners and just focus on the upfront costs.

Renovation is a further investment in your home. Consider the time, energy and cost required for ongoing maintenance and possible replacement down the road. A well-planned renovation can reduce these future costs. There may be ways to stretch a limited budget, but don’t compromise on quality as you may end up paying for it later.

Most importantly, if a job is too big to handle yourself, hire a professional. Your home is quite likely the largest asset you own, and you are placing it in someone else’s hands. Make sure that this person carries all applicable licenses and permits, carries liability insurance, offers a warranty on all work and provides a detailed, written contract for every job.

These are just a few points that distinguish a professional renovator. A good example to go by is the RenoMark Code of Conduct, which every RenoMark member has agreed to abide by. The program, which dates back to 2001, is available across Canada in eight provinces and 38 communities.

Visit renomark.ca to learn more about the website’s search feature, which can help you find a professional renovator in your area.

Don’t delay, because the best renovators start planning their projects months in advance – and so should you!

BRYAN TUCKEY Bryan Tuckey is President and CEO of the Building Industry and Land Development Association (BILD), the creators of RenoMark, and can be found on Twitter (twitter. com/renomark_ca), Facebook (facebook.com/ renomark), YouTube and BILD’s official online blog (bildblogs.ca).

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tipsandtricks

Decoding thecode

by MichAel Nyikes

Q

Having received a number of quotes for a renovation project, a homeowner wrote me asking what it meant when some contractors had SECOR certification and others didn’t.

A

A Small Employer Certificate of Recognition (SECOR) is awarded to employers with less than 10 employees that develop a company health and safety program which is evaluated by a certified auditor and meet established standards.

A health and safety management system is a proactive approach for an employer to minimize the risk of jobsite injury to their workers. The elements of a system include:

-management commitment -hazard identification and assessment -hazard control -worker competency and training -inspections -emergency response planning -incident investigation -system administration

Certificates are issued by the provincial government and are co-signed by certifying partners such as the Alberta Construction Safety Association (who also provide the training).

Achieving and maintaining a valid SECOR is required for earning a financial incentive through the Workers’ Compensation Boards “Partnerships in Injury Reduction” program.

Possessing effective health and safety management systems have been proven to dramatically reduce jobsite injuries, which eliminate the social and financial effects on an employer’s company. It demonstrates an employer’s commitment to professionalism and ability to provide a culture of safety for both their workers and the people they are doing work for.

More information regarding the SECOR program can be found by visiting the provincial government’s Human Services website at http:// humanservices.alberta.ca/working-inalberta/334.html or the Alberta Construction Safety Association’s website at http://www.acsa-safety.org/ page.php?s=2&p=17 Future Decoding the Code columns will continue to answer readers’ questions about how the provincial building code affects their projects. Email your questions to me at decodingthecode@ gmail.com. Be sure to include which city you live in, as well as your phone number in case I need to follow up with you.

MichAel Nyikes Michael is a nationally recognized speaker, columnist, and leading industry expert on building codes, residential construction, building envelope science, and environmental design. He can be reached at decodingthecode@gmail.com

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tipsandtricks

shell busey: ask a pro

What to use to strengthen your concrete slab by shell busey

Now that spriNg is here,

FiberreinForced concrete uses Fibermesh, a proprietary additive, to increase structural strength limit or prevent cracking.

recently who are now ready to move forward with their concrete projects, such as patios, driveways, and sidewalks.

A common question I hear from people planning projects involving concrete and whether they should use fibre-reinforced concrete, rebar, wire mesh, or a combination of these three items to increase the structural strength of the concrete slab.

Steel-reinforced concrete uses rebar set in a grid pattern to provide inner strength to concrete slabs and columns.

The rebar is suspended in approximately the center of the concrete. When concrete begins to crack, the rebar acts to retain pieces together but does not limit the spread of the crack since the rebar can only provide structural strength within the concrete.

Fiber-reinforced concrete uses Fibermesh, a proprietary additive, to increase structural strength limit or prevent cracking. Small particles of synthetic or steel fiber are blend into the concrete mixture. These fibers uniformly mix throughout the concrete and align in

no particular direction. When concrete settles, it shrinks or expands causing cracking, the crack has a limited distance over which it can spread before reaching a fiber, preventing the crack from growing I am a firm believer in using fibrereinforced concrete when placing concrete for a patio, deck, walkway or other similar items. If you use fibrereinforced concrete you do NOT require wire mesh or rebar.

I do strongly suggest jointing. This prevents cracking the slabs by encouraging the cracks to occur in the joints as opposed to on the surface of the concrete. Control joints are normally spaced at intervals equal to the width of the pour. It is recommended, however, not to exceed 10 feet in any direction without a joint. The joint should be cut at least one-fourth the depth of the slab. A jointer tool or saw is used for this step.

Place a straight-edge across the surface and run the jointer along the straight edge to create a nice straight line. As with the edger, hold the front up slightly when pushing forward. Control joints in large slabs can also be cut after the apr - May 2013 home dĂŠcor and renovations 59

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even when an installer has Followed all the proper guidelines and procedures, cracking can occur.

concrete cures, using a masonry blade in a circular saw or concrete saw. I prefer adding control joints after the concrete is cured using a circular or concrete saw.

Expansion joints must be cut in large slabs. A jointer held against a straight edge produces a nice, straight-line groove.

Even when an installer has followed all the proper guidelines and procedures, cracking can occur. While proper jointing procedures will control cracking in the vast majority of cases, even properly jointed concrete can crack in places other than the joints. No one can guarantee that concrete will not crack however. You must understand that cracks are usually not an indication of a serious problem in most cases. Most of these cracks are simply unplanned joints (in many cases unstable substrate under the slab is the cause) - they are no more a threat to long-term appearance and maintenance than the joints that were intentionally applied.

For more home improvement information, to send Shell an email, or to watch Shell’s AskShell Coffee Break go to www.AskShell.com.

shell busey For more home improvement information, or to sign-up for shell’s Free online housesmart e-newsletter visit www.askshell.com

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Need a job done?

FROM A – Z, ALL YOUR HOME IMPROVEMENT NEEDS! INTRODUCING ASK SHELL! You can see and hear Shell in our studio answering emails from homeowners across Canada, every Sunday from 11AM to Noon. To view the webcast simply visit AskShell.com, the program can be seen right on our home page. If you are not able to watch the programs live, we will have past episodes of the program available for viewing. Thanks for tuning in!

It’s just that easy!

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AskShell.com or call 1.888.266.8806 apr - May 2013 home décor and renovations 61

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Home

Make no compromises‌

Quality, Transparency, Value

OUR BEST PRICE GUARANTEE

*On renovation projects $100,000 and up, we will match and better a recognized competitor’s quote by 10%. At Trademark Renovations, we are constantly reviewing and negotiating preferred pricing arrangements with our supplier & trade partners to get you the best value for your money. We are so confident about our pricing that we guarantee you the lowest price for your overall renovation project while delivering our unsurpassed level of quality, service and transparency.

(403) 277-5600

www.trademarkrenovations.com TERMS & CONDITIONS: This Best Price Guarantee applies to projects based on identical scopes of work, specifications, products, levels of finish, service, and quality. Best Price Guarantee applies to overall total project price and not the individual components contained therein. All recognized competitor quotes are subject to verification by Trademark before honoring this offer. Trademark will not accept screenshots or other purported evidence of a lower price that cannot be independently confirmed by Trademark personnel. Nor will Trademark verify any request that it believes, in its sole discretion, is the result of a printing or other error or is made fraudulently or in bad faith. All original documents from recognized competitor quotes must be presented to Trademark prior to verification, execution of any contract or commencement of work. This Price Guarantee excludes insurance claims, free offers, gifts with purchase, gift cards, gift certificates, rebates, clearance or close-out prices, credit or financing programs, used, damaged, or display merchandise or products. Discount applied before taxes and environmental stewardship fees or other levies, if applicable. This price guarantee cannot be combined with any other offer. Trademark reserves the right in its sole discretion to modify or discontinue the Best Price Guarantee or to restrict its availability to any person, at any time, for any or no reason, and without prior notice or liability to you. The failure by Trademark to enforce any provision of these Terms & Conditions shall not constitute a waiver of that provision.

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Before SSR Before SSR

After SSR

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