Calgary Home Decor & Renovations - Aug/Sept 2015 by NextHome

AUG - SEPT 2015 VOLUME 13, ISSUE 4, FREE CALGARY EDITION

homeanddecor.ca

HE SAID, SHE SAID, BRYAN AND SARAH BAEUMLER ON HOW TO DECORATE & RENOVATE YOUR HOME

GARDEN BLUES WORKING THIS TRANQUIL COLOUR INTO YOUR OUTDOOR SPACE

ALL OF THE CREDENTIALS NONE OF THE HEADACHES. wallacefleming.ca

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business profile - Interiors with Elegance

INTERIORS WITH ELEGANCE OPENING ITS NEW SHOWROOM IN THE HEART OF CALGARY SEPTEMBER by HEATHER RYAN

hen it comes to choosing the right renovator a few key words come to many Calgarians’ minds – reliability, quality workmanship, custom designs. And the trusted name for more than 25 years with a reputation for these traits is Interiors With Elegance. With custom renovations come custom finishes – and to showcase even more options than before for their clients,

this renovator is opening a new showroom in the heart of trendy Sunalta. Interiors With Elegance is pleased to open their stunning new 6,000 sq. ft. showroom and custom mill-work shop in early September at 1602 10th Ave S.W. “The new location is more convenient for our clients, and much larger than before. This allows us to provide an all-inclusive selection of products from start to finish for every size of renovation project,” says Darrin Burton, founder and CEO of Interiors With Elegance. “We will have high-end products on display that can cater to even the most particular of clients – these will include everything from hand-scraped hardwoods to one-of-a-kind tile options, and much more. “With our millwork shop right there, clients can literally choose a cabinetry door and stain colour and then immediately see how it will look and operate,” he adds. “It’s definitely exciting for them to watch their project develop from concept to completion. “Having a larger location also provides us the space we need to stage the cabinetry before we install it,” Darrin explains. “This way we can avoid any unnecessary errors when we get to the job site.”

The showroom will also house some of the hottest design trends in Calgary – which can be seen from its streetscape and window display. A monochromatic back drop sets the stage – but pops of colour were added for punch. “The trend now is white on white; studio white walls and crisp white cabinets, and then colour is added through accents of furniture or artwork.” You’ll need to visit their new showroom in Sunalta for your next renovation project to see for yourself the fabulous displays and selections. Or check out the Interiors With Elegance booth at the Calgary Home + Design Show in September. They also have the feature booth at the Calgary HomExpo in January. With the expertise of Interiors With Elegance in your corner, you can be confident that no matter what size of project you are contemplating, from a bathroom to a whole home renovation, the quality and experience will be unlike any other. To learn more about Interiors With Elegance start by visiting their new location at 1602 10th Ave. S.W, or check out their website at www.interiorswithelegance.ca.

Renovations that Inspire A Design/Build Company

Renovating your home? Our experienced and creative team will work with you through every phase of your project.

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contents

V O LU M E 1 3 I S S U E 4

AUG - SEPT 2015

AUG - SEPT 2015 VOLUME 13, ISSUE 4, FREE CALGARY EDITION

NOTE: OUR COVER GUIDELINES CAN BE FOUND ON THE “B-BASE“ MASTER PAGE.

business profile 52 Allergy-proofing your home BY SHELL BUSEY 04 Interiors With Elegance opening

homeanddecor.ca

HE SAID, SHE SAID, BRYAN AND SARAH BAEUMLER ON HOW TO DECORATE & RENOVATE YOUR HOME

GARDEN BLUES WORKING THIS TRANQUIL COLOUR INTO YOUR OUTDOOR SPACE

its new showroom in the Heart of Calgary in September BY HEATHER RYAN

13 Dowden Floors & Interiors’ experts handle any size job

custom glide-out shelf solutions for your whole home BY MICHELLE HOPKINS

26 For window coverings, trust

He said, she said, with the Baeumlers

on their minds BY BRYAN TUCKEY

BY HEATHER RYAN

18 ShelfGenie of Alberta:

cover story

renomark 20 Canadians have renos

Sheila Window Toppers & More Ltd. BY MICHELLE HOPKINS

28 Rusco Industries’ renovation experience ensures outstanding results BY HEATHER RYAN

tips & tricks 08 Editor’s notebook 11 What you need to know about Alberta’s new building code BY VANESSA GASH

44 Decoding the code BY MICHAEL NYIKES

features 22 A little luxury BY ADENE LUCAS

38 Concrete countertops: As easy as 1-2-3

40 Colour commitment BY MICKEY FOULDS

46 High design on a budget BY CAITLIN BEST

renovations 30 Find the perfect piece for your decor at Rossini’s Furniture BY HEATHER RYAN

home and garden 34 Blues in the garden BY BONNY DANN/ESCAPES INC.

editor’s notebook

AUG - SEPT 2015 VOLUME 13 ISSUE 04 PRESIDENT, YELLOW PAGES NEXTHOME

Jacqueline Hill EDITOR-IN-CHIEF / DIRECTOR OF CONTENT

Susan Legge DIRECTOR OF SALES, NATIONAL

Moe Lalani SENIOR SALES MANAGER, WESTERN CANADA

Edwin Rizarri

Your next reno, are you permitted?

ART DIRECTOR

Victoria Cigan SENIOR EDITOR

Sometimes, you outgrow your home. Perhaps it’s in a great location, but no longer fulfills your needs. This presents a crossroads: Do you renovate or relocate? A brand new space (new to you, anyway) can be very enticing, but can also be very expensive. There are a lot of costs involved in selling and buying. Renovating your existing home to fulfil your dreams – especially if you’ve lived there for a long time and have a well-loved home (read dated and in need of repair) – can seem like a good plan, but you have to be prepared to live through the renovation. This often comes with timelines and costs that surpass your estimations. If you choose to stay and renovate, we’ve got some amazing advice and insights for you this issue. We spoke with Bryan and Sarah Baeumler, hosts of HGTV’s House of Bryan, and they offer advice that every couple should read before embarking on a reno project. We’d like to think we’ll save a few relationships with this one! We’ve also got a few good articles that will help clarify which projects require building permits, and Michael Nyikes sheds light on new energy-efficiency requirements. There’s a lot to think about beyond just picking finishes and approving layouts! But that’s the fun part. Whether you’re renovating or just decorating, deciding on finishes, colours and furnishings is where you get to make that space your own. Erica Cook has some stylish advice for getting the best out of your budget. This issue will give you the edge you need to make your home the perfect place – inside and out. I hope you’ll find some inspiration that will help you enjoy it even more!

Cheers,

Elisa Krovblit EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Sara Duck (on leave) MEDIA CONSULTANT

Anita van Breevoort, 403.461.5518 Anita.VanBreevoort@ypnexthome.ca NATIONAL CIRCULATION MANAGER

John Jenkins PRODUCTION MANAGER

Bala Gnanapandithan PRODUCTION CO-ORDINATOR / GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Greg Van Sluytman GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Viosa Barileva, Mike Terentiev, Miguel Cea CONTRIBUTORS

Heather Ryan, Vanessa Gash, Laura Le, Brian Tuckey, Sara Duck, Michelle Hopkins, Steve Willsteed, Mickey Foulds, Michael Nyikes, Adene Lucas, Jackie Swartz, Shell Busey 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.

ELISA KROVBLIT

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

EXECUTIVE EDITOR, YP NEXTHOME Elisa.Krovblit@ypnexthome.ca Follow me on twitter: twitter.com/elisakrovblit

Like us on Facebook (Search: Home and Decor magazine)

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Renovations

Enhancing homes

lives!

business profile - Dowden Floors & Interiors

DOWDEN FLOORS & INTERIORS’ EXPERTS HANDLE ANY SIZE JOB by HEATHER RYAN

hether you’re planning a small renovation project or need total house overhaul, the professionals at Dowden Floors & Interiors have the knowledge, skills and experience to handle them all. For this family-owned and operated company, which specializes in kitchen and bathroom renovations, no job is too big or too small. “We can do the smallest job from installing a kitchen backsplash or a tile floor in the bathroom to updating the main floor, developing a basement or doing a whole house renovation,” says Lee Dowden, president and co-owner of Dowden with his father Patrick. “About 80 to 85 per cent of our customers are repeats and referrals and I think it’s because we can take on small jobs; often

they lead to bigger ones once people see the quality of our work and the service we provide. “We have many people coming back to us and referring others because we’re all about customer service and customer satisfaction,” he adds. As project managers they co-ordinate their tradespeople to ensure there is no time lag in the project. They’re also general contractors who are “very hands-on and because we’re on site most of the time we make sure everything runs smoothly.” Dowden Floors & Interiors consults with clients to determine what their needs are as well as what works for their lifestyle and helps them with their design. Clients then visit the store to make product selections for

everything from flooring to fixtures. “We have high-end products to choose from, but we also have selections to fit every budget,” Lee notes, adding they provide design consultations in-home and in the store, along with free estimates and in-home measures. “We’re a one stop shop; we have everything clients need for their renovation project.” Dowden Floors & Interiors is also moving to a new store Aug. 1 that will provide clients with even more selections and allow room for displays of large format samples. To learn more, visit the new location, 1600 90 Ave. S.W., or visit www.dowdenfloors.com.

Flooring ‑ Bathrooms ‑ Kitchens ‑ Basements

Visit Our Showroom Today At Our New Glenmore Landing Location Unit A114, 1600 90th Ave SW

A People Company, Enhancing Homes 10 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS AUG - SEP 2015

tips and tricks

HOME RENOVATIONS WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE NEW BUILDING CODE by VANESSA GASH ARE YOU PLANNING RENOVATIONS THIS YEAR? Changes to the Alberta Building Code (ABC) may impact your plans. In May of this year, the province of Alberta adopted a new provincial building code â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the first new building code adopted since 2007. Current permit applicants may choose to use either the 2006 or 2014 code during the six month transition period. As of Nov. 1, 2015, however, the 2014 ABC

must be used for all new building permit application drawings. The majority of changes in the 2014 ABC will impact the construction of new building projects and homes. However, there are a few changes which could also impact home renovation and addition projects. AUG - SEP 2015 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 11

THERE ARE A FEW CHANGES WHICH COULD IMPACT HOME RENOVATION AND ADDITION PROJECTS. SMOKE DETECTORS The requirement for residential smoke detectors has increased. Previously, a detector was required within five metres of a bedroom, which meant that one smoke detector could serve multiple bedrooms. The new code requires a smoke detector in each bedroom. SIDE YARD GLAZING Revised methods and requirements for calculating side yard glazing (fitting a wall or window with glass) will make it easier to determine how much glass is permitted on the sides of a home. STAIRCASE LANDING REQUIREMENTS Under the new code, a landing is no longer required at the top of a stair leading from an attached garage to the house. GRANDFATHERING A common question from homeowners when starting renovation projects is if existing construction must be brought up to current building code standards, or if it will be ‘grandfathered.’ All new construction is required to meet the current code of the day. This means that any portion of work that is built new, modified or renovated will need to meet these requirements. The term ‘grandfathering’ typically refers to existing construction permitted to stay in place even though the current standards are stricter. Review the following key questions to determine if existing construction may be ‘grandfathered’: Was the original construction built with a permit and inspected? • Grandfathering is only allowed if the construction was built to the building code standards; a permit must have been obtained and inspections completed for the original construction. If the work was completed without a permit, there is no verification it conformed to the code of the time. 12 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS AUG - SEP 2015

• The City’s Planning Services Call Centre may help if you are unsure whether a previous owner obtained permits for renovations. They can be reached at 403.268.5311. Is the existing construction in good repair and safe? • Existing stairs in a 100-year-old house are permitted to remain even though the rise, run, width and landings are unlikely to meet current requirements. If the stairs are rotted or otherwise structurally unstable, they will need to be replaced and must meet the 2014 ABC requirements. Are you modifying the existing construction? • An area of significant change over the years is windows. As this was once unregulated, some old houses have many windows. Houses closer than 1.2 metres to the property line are not permitted any windows in that wall under the current code, and the allowable amount of glass increases relative to the distance of the house from the property line. • The rule when renovating is that you may keep existing window openings (built to code with a permit) provided you replace the window units with ones of the exact same size. If you are making them smaller, this is a modification. If the percentage of glass is above the limits in the current ABC, the only option is to remove the window entirely. Existing construction outside the scope of your renovation project may stay as is, provided you are not modifying it in any way and it is not a safety risk. At such time as the construction is modified, the replacement materials and construction will be required to be upgraded to the current building code requirements. If you have specific questions about building code or permit requirements, visit the City of Calgary website at calgary.ca or call the Planning Services Call Centre at 403.268.5311, Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. Safety Codes Officers from building, mechanical and electrical are available to answer your questions.

VANESSA GASH, LEED AP 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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cover story

HE SAID, SHE SAID with the Baeumlers As the stars of HGTV’s House of Bryan: In the Sticks, Bryan and Sarah Baeumler are nothing short of a power couple. Bryan is a master contractor and Sarah is a style consultant who joined her husband onair to build a 3,500-sq.-ft. home for their family. They both bring a lot to the show, to the marriage – and to every project they take on. We caught up with the couple recently, as they prepared to appear at the Calgary Home + Design Show, and asked them about decor, lifestyle and living through a renovation.

What is your favourite room to renovate, and why? BRYAN: The kitchen – because it always turns into ‘take down the wall,’ and we end up renovating the entire main floor! SARAH: I enjoy renovating bedrooms – from a design perspective only. Without having to focus on functionality in terms of plumbing, electrical, appliances or cabinetry placement (like in kitchens and baths) the bedroom is a relatively blank palette where you can truly be free to design whatever you want. A principal bedroom oasis, a teenage lounge, a child’s bunkhouse or a home office – there are so many design possibilities.

Countertops: granite, marble or quartz? BRYAN: I like them all – but it usually comes down to what the client is paying for, or what my wife wants. All have their advantages and disadvantages, so it really comes down to finding a slab that has the look you want. SARAH: Countertops are more personal than many people would believe. Truly, all three (granite, marble and quartz) make for fabulous options, but they 14 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS AUG - SEP 2015

are dependent upon your lifestyle. For bathrooms and kitchens, using a quartz product allows for a polished look that is also almost indestructible and less expensive than a traditional marble or granite — often handy when you have a herd of children like we do!

Colours or neutrals in the bedroom? BRYAN: Definitely colours. SARAH:I prefer a relatively neutral paint palette in the bedroom to create a serene escape at the end of a long day. Even children need a relaxing space to call their own. I have never been a fan of themed bedrooms, so my look is usual quite simple – lots of texture through bedding, drapery, area rugs and pillows. I would rather see layers of colourful blankets and pillows to create a cosy and intimate environment than paint an entire room purple.

What do you think about the red front door trend? BRYAN: Is that even still a trend? SARAH: Is this really a trend? Up here in the country, the only thing that is painted red is the barn.

I’D ALSO LIKE TO THROW A SQUASH COURT IN THE BASEMENT, WITH A GLASS CEILING SO PEOPLE ON THE MAIN FLOOR COULD WATCH THE ACTION!

Flooring – do you prefer light or dark? And what’s your favourite flooring material? BRYAN: I used to like the dark, glossy floors, but I’m digging the light, matte oiled engineered white oak floors lately. SARAH: Over the past few years I have grown to love a light hardwood floor. I started wanting only dark polished wood floors, but I seem to be going through a ‘Miami Beach meets Aspen’ phase right now, and I seem to love the light flooring. I’m also a huge fan of natural stone, like slate and marble.

What’s your favourite style? BRYAN: When it comes to style, I’m all over the place. I love modern, flat roofs with lots of glass, concrete and natural materials – but I also love log cabins or timber framed homes. I’m not a big fan of traditional. SARAH: I can’t say that I have a favourite. If money were no object, then I would love to build different homes all over the world that reflected the country’s heritage and natural environment. I love the modern art deco vibe, but I think each style has a time and a place. Who knows, maybe when our kids are all grown up we can add ‘Renovating a stone villa in the Italian countryside’ to our bucket list!

City or country living? BRYAN: Definitely country. SARAH: I have surprised myself by how much I have enjoyed living in the country. The quality time that we have been able to spend with our kids is second to none, and with a work schedule as hectic as ours, it is nice to escape to our ‘cabin’ in the woods! But don’t get me wrong – I would jump at the chance to one day own a teeny weeny piece of real estate in NYC. Now only if I could convince my husband of that…

Money’s no object, what would be your favourite luxury feature to include in a reno – any area of the home, any element. BRYAN: An indoor/outdoor pool with a swim-through tunnel, and a window into the basement would be pretty cool. I’d also like to throw a squash court in the basement, with a glass ceiling so people on the main floor could watch the action. SARAH: I’d rather put money into shoes than into wine, so for me it would be a shoe and handbag room — for anyone who has ever watched Sex and the City, I would love a closet like the one Mr. Big built for Carrie.

Budget is tight – what is the best spot to splurge? BRYAN: I don’t want to be the party pooper, but before you splurge on any of the finishes, fixtures or appliances, you should splurge on upgrading the efficiency of your home, or performing maintenance. SARAH: I can almost guess how Bryan will answer this one: ”Put your money in the things behind the walls that make your house safe.” I guess after 11 years of marriage he is starting to rub off on me! Hear the Baeumlers speak on the Trail Appliances Main Stage at the Calgary Home + Design show Friday, Sept. 18 at 6 p.m. and Saturday, Sept. 19 at 2 p.m. 16 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS AUG - SEP 2015

5 Tips for Tackling a Renovation (WITHOUT RUINING YOUR MARRIAGE)

Pick your battles. You’re not going to agree on everything, but it’s important to make a list of the rooms and projects you do agree on, and put them to the side. Agree on how you’ll battle it out, and don’t take it personally!

Take a break. It’s important to take a day off, or go for dinner and avoid talking about the renovation at all costs. A big renovation can be all consuming – take a chance once a week to do something together and agree not to discuss ‘the job.’

Keep your eyes on the prize. Remind yourself (and each other) why you’re doing the work, and don’t lose sight of the finish line. Give yourselves something to look forward to.

Don’t peek. Choose a room or two to leave completely to your spouse, and trust them to make all the decisions. You’ll be surprised (maybe even amazed) by what they’re able to accomplish.

Colour outside the lines. Renovations aren’t like a two lane highway; they’re more like a shipping channel. When changes to the budget, schedule or overall plan come into play, it’s best to go with the flow. You’ll wander back and forth, but the destination and final product are the ultimate goal, and it’s important to remember that. You’ll get there eventually, so enjoy the journey and don’t sweat the small stuff! If a renovation is going to end your relationship, it’s not because of the renovation – it’s simply the catalyst.

business profile - ShelfGenie

ShelfGenie of Alberta CUSTOM GLIDE-OUT SHELF SOLUTIONS FOR YOUR WHOLE HOME by MICHELLE HOPKINS

ou’ve decided to renovate your kitchen. Your pantry is so cluttered it looks like a bomb hit it. Trying to get to that seldom used pot stored behind several others is an exercise in complete frustration, while papers are strewn all over the kitchen table. Whether you’re planning a simple kitchen update or a complete redesign, one of the biggest considerations just might be the lack of storage space and functionality and not your cabinetry. New cabinets can eat up a lot of your renovation budget. What if you could simplify your life and maximize your space at a fraction of the cost of new cabinetry? Renovator/cabinet maker and owner of Tru Woodcraft Inc., Steve Trutenko, says you can. He has worked with many homeowners, and when it comes to effective, efficient storage, he recommends ShelfGenie of Alberta. If the “bones” of your current kitchen cabinetry are good, ShelfGenie takes the frustration and pain out of home-storage solutions by transforming the existing cabinetry into highly functional, organized space that puts everything within reach. “ShelfGenie offers high quality products and exceptional customer service” says Trutenko. “They take the time to sit with clients, find out what their needs are and what their lifestyles are in order to provide the best storage solutions for their family.” This is custom glide-out shelving that will last years. “All the homeowners I’ve dealt with end up extremely happy with their new storage solutions,” he says, adding ShelfGenie offers a great warranty. “Greg [Billson, Owner/Operator ShelfGenie of Alberta] and his team are very friendly. They offer real southern hospitality that is a part of Greg’s business model.” Trutenko isn’t the only one to tout the benefits of ShelfGenie. Retired couple Art and Carol loved their home, but both were finding it increasingly difficult to reach into those bottom kitchen shelves. When Art saw an ad for ShelfGenie, he decided to give them a call. “An appointment was immediately set up and soon after we were visited by Greg Billson,” he says in a written testimonial. Art went on to say that Billson understood their challenges and “was able to immediately propose solutions. We purchased units for three cupboards.” ShelfGenie manufactures, installs and sells glide-out shelves that are designed to last a lifetime – at competitive prices backed by the highest level of customer service. “Our affordable, high impact glide-out shelves are designed to provide

18 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS AUG - SEP 2015

homeowners with easy access to their belongings in the kitchen, pantry, bathroom, garage or anywhere you have a cabinet or a shelf,” says Billson. “By improving organization and accessibility, thereby reducing stress, our glide-out shelves transform the way you use your home. We offer a lifetime parts and labor warranty on the majority of our solutions.” A family owned business, ShelfGenie of Alberta is part of the ShelfGenie franchise system, so that means clients can feel secure knowing they are backed up with the expertise and resources of a company that has more than 30,000 installations to date. From the very first call to the design and install, ShelfGenie’s team of professionals takes care of everything. Whatever you can imagine, ShelfGenie of Alberta can create.

renomark

“A LOT OF MAJOR RENOVATIONS REQUIRE YOU TO OBTAIN THE PROPER PERMIT, PARTICULARLY IN BIG CITIES LIKE CALGARY.”

CANADIANS HAVE renos on their minds BY BRYAN TUCKEY

A REPORT PUBLISHED BY CIBC EARLIER THIS YEAR REVEALED THAT nearly half of Canadian homeowners plan to renovate their homes this year – a great way to add value to their existing homes while creating jobs in the industry and boosting our economy. The poll showed that 42 per cent of Canadians are planning home renovations, and plans to spend an average of $17,000 on sprucing up their homes with some basic maintenance such as painting, flooring, general repairs and replacing appliances. Kitchen and bathroom renovations are still a popular focus, this year lagging behind only outdoor landscaping – and not by much. These results come as no surprise to some industry professionals, who cite low interest rates and rising house prices as two major factors in the renovation demand. The average price of a lowrise home or condo is high, regularly setting new records. This leaves many homeowners turning to renovations to get the feeling of a brand new home but with a lighter price tag. Before you embark on your renovation, be sure to plan ahead. A lot of major renovations require you to obtain the proper 20 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS AUG - SEP 2015

permit, particularly in big cities like Calgary. Failure to do so may result in you being asked to restore your home to its original state if the renovation doesn’t conform to the municipality’s bylaws – an expensive process you don’t want to experience. Make sure that there is adequate time allotted to getting your permit. BILD is working with our government partners to hasten the approvals process, but in the meantime, waiting times can often be a while. I recommend working closely with your renovator to ensure that all the paperwork is in order before starting any work. If your contractor pressures you to act otherwise, proceed with caution. A professional renovator will know to play by the rules. Working with a professional renovator is of utmost importance, because you want to be confident that you’re trusting your home to someone with the right knowledge and experience to do the job – and do it right. If you think it’s expensive to hire a professional, wait until you see how much it costs to hire an amateur. You may end up paying thousands to fix sub-standard work, or risk having no work done at all. This is where the written contract comes in. Make sure you have all elements of the job, including payment, outlined in a detailed and written agreement. Without one, any legal action will prove challenging should you encounter issues. There are hundreds of professional renovators and trade contractors available in a fully customizable online database at renomark.ca. All companies on this website have agreed to a renovation-specific Code of Conduct, which includes things such as providing a written contract; offering a minimum $2 million in liability insurance; providing a two-year warranty on all work; and carrying all applicable licenses and permits. If you are planning a home renovation this summer, make sure you hire a pro. Visit renomark.ca to find out if there’s a RenoMark renovator in your area.

BRYAN TUCKEY is President and CEO of the Building Industry and Land Development Association (BILD) and is a land-use planner who has worked for municipal, regional and provincial governments. He can be found on Twitter (twitter.com/bildgta), Facebook (facebook.com/bildgta) and BILD’s official online blog (bildblogs.ca).

For a complimentary, in-home consultation contact us today. kurmakbuilders.com 403.277.5525

AUG - SEP 2015 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 21

feature

A LITTLE LUXURY by ADENE LUCAS, photo courtesy by WOLSELEY CANADA

FASHION ISN’T JUST ABOUT CLOTHING, it reflects how we live, how we decorate, what we covet. The worlds of fashion and decor often collide – a prime example is colour trends. What we see in the fashion world trickles down to colour forecasts in design. When it comes to fashion for the home, what comes to mind? It may not be faucets and bathroom hardware but if you are at all familiar with a line called Brizo, a higher end line of the Delta family, then you know it’s possible. The sophisticated line of faucets for the kitchen, bath and shower is carried by Wolseley Studio. The design is distinctive and dare I say sexy; curvaceous faucets and elegantly shaped taps are just two of the Brizo brand hallmarks when it comes to design. They have aligned themselves with the word of fashion 22 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS AUG - SEP 2015

and their faucets are stylish. One of Brizo’s philosophies is, “Luxury should do more than simply look good.” Just because it’s pretty doesn’t mean it’s not practical. Brizo has a wonderful line of SmartTouch Technology which allows you to turn the faucet on and off with a simple touch anywhere on the faucet. This helps prevent, cross contamination in a kitchen setting and there’s little need to clean the faucet after each use. Just think of how simple making hamburger patties alone would be? The same technology is applied to faucets in the bathroom which is a nice touch, pun intended. It’s a simple way of being more Green by not having the faucet needlessly run, and alleviates the concern of a small child leaving the faucet running and a sink overflowing. For those with disabilities, the hands free faucet makes life a little easier when if hand strength or dexterity is an issue. Brizo also has the MagneDock technology which securely holds the kitchen spray wand in place when not in use. Great for the kitchen where there is more than one cook and you want things just as you left them. Now back to the pretty aspect, Brizo has the most stunning finishes available from the basic Chrome, to Brilliance Polished Nickel, Venetian Bronze and of course Stainless. What is so impressive is that the finishes are not only beautiful, but practical as they were tested with over 100 harsh household chemicals

IN THE WORLD OF DESIGN WE MUST ALSO CONSIDER THE ENVIRONMENT AND THE IMPACT WE HAVE. and steel wool to ensure the finish was durable. They were designed to withstand discolouration and corrosion for as long as you own your home. They also carry a line that mixes chrome and an accent colour such as white or black to provide a distinctive and stylish look. In a contemporary sleek kitchen the black and chrome faucet would look very sharp and can add to the overall look of the space. In the world of design we must also consider the environment and the impact we have. Brizo uses recyclable and recycled packaging. They also use environmentally friendly manufacturing processes and they are the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest recycler of brass. Water purity is also a high priority and Brizo has developed technology that prevents water, once inside the faucet, to come in contact with potential metal contaminants. Their faucets have a Diamond Technology which uses a coated valve to ensure their products are leak free and lead free. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s refreshing to have a company make the environment a priority while also creating beautiful products. To fully appreciate the aesthetics of the line, a visit to Wolseley Studio is in order. The 'wow factor' when you enter Wolseley

Studio cannot be fully explained. The showroom is large, but approachable and easy to navigate through. There are extraordinary lighting options, gleaming appliances and the best plumbing possibilities all in one stop. If you are in the process of building a new home and at the stage where you are selecting plumbing fixtures its best to call ahead, says Wendy Beaty, the Wolseley Canada Showroom Business Development Manager. That way you can ensure you have an experienced consultant spend the time with you to go over all your options. It is much less stressful when you talk to an expert in their field and let them help you. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best to be prepared with blueprints, images and a wish list of sorts to make the most of your appointment. If a renovation is in the works, bring pictures of the current space and have an idea of what you like. A good idea for those not familiar with what the current trends are, is to look online at www.Houzz.com and scroll through bath and kitchen images and you can create a file of the images that inspire you. There are so many options and price points that a consultant can lead the way and assist in selections. Products are typically stocked and the distribution centre is in Ontario if what you need is not on site. The lead time in ordering varies, so itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s always good to select all the fixtures at once and early so that everything ties in together and there are no delays. Plumbing features such as custom shower systems, body sprays, hand free faucets, and temperature control are just some of the innovative features that Brizo offers. Inventive technology combined with distinctive design can bring the look and feel of your kitchen or bath to whole new level. 24 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS AUG - SEP 2015

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business profile - Sheila Window Toppers & More Ltd.

WHEN IT COMES TO WINDOW COVERINGS PROFESSIONALS AND HOMEOWNERS TRUST SHEILA WINDOW TOPPERS & MORE LTD. by MICHELLE HOPKINS

hen Kristen Jacobson began plans for her custom home, the design decisions sometimes felt overwhelming. Not so, she says, when it came to the window coverings. Kristen had heard glowing reports about Sheila Window Toppers & More Ltd. from family and friends. “I also like that they are a family owned business because that tells me they care about providing exceptional service and products.” From the initial meeting with Souk Oun (co-owner) to the install of her new window coverings, it was evident to Kristen that his utmost desire was to please his clients. “Souk helped me choose the right window coverings and within days came out to measure and install them.” Today, Kristen couldn’t be happier with her new window coverings and the friendly service and professionalism she experienced. In Calgary, homeowners, interior designers, builders and

26 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS AUG - SEP 2015

renovators trust multiple award-winning Sheila Window Toppers & More Ltd. for their window covering needs and more. As one of the city’s leaders in the industry, they offer a wide selection of high quality window covering products, drapery and upholstery fabrics, custom furniture and other accessory decor items; adding distinction and personality to any home. “We have people come from all over Calgary because they trust our expertise, our products and our competitive prices,” says Oun, adding they have in-house professional design consultants and installers. Since its inception in 1991, the company has been committed to excellence in installing the highest quality products backed by the best customer service. This promise earned them Calgary’s Best Shutter & Blind Company for three years running by HomeStars and Houz.

business profile - Rusco Industries

RUSCO INDUSTRIES’ RENOVATION EXPERIENCE ENSURES OUTSTANDING RESULTS by HEATHER RYAN

hen it comes to exterior renovation projects, Rusco Industries Calgary Ltd. offers its clients longevity, experience and quality products that ensure outstanding results. For the past 62 years Rusco Industries Calgary Ltd. has successfully completed of thousands of renovations and has won the Consumers Choice Award for Excellence in exterior renovation – a testament to its exemplary work and customer satisfaction. “Rusco Industries is a family-owned and operated company where we focus on quality,” says owner, David McDonald, noting they have an A-plus rating with the BBB. “We provide great products that stand up to Calgary’s weather and will last long term. Many products look alike, but the quality is just not there. It may cost more, but the value you add is worth it.” David notes the company will soon be starting a major project to a home in Hawkwood, where more than 20 windows and doors are being replaced. “We’re installing new insulated fiberglass doors that come factory stained and look like wood, so they require little maintenance and using a multilock system for security and weather tightness. “The customer currently has wood windows and they like the look, so we’re replacing them with vinyl windows that look like wood, and we’re changing them from an oak to a cherry look. But you can also get vinyl windows in different colours – and we can do custom colours.” The company also undertook a complete window replacement last year to a home in West Springs that was just 10 years old, because the original windows weren’t holding up. “The homeowners chose us over other bidders because we offer a better product and provided more of what they wanted; they looked at this as a long term investment,” David explains. “And the clients are extremely happy with the results.” Rusco specializes in exterior renovations, so it can supply and install new windows, exterior doors, fascia, soffit, window capping, siding and insulation. With the recent hot temperatures the company has also been busy installing three-season sunrooms, patio covers, awnings and porch enclosures. “A large portion of our renovations are windows because people want to increase the energy efficiency in their homes. They can save 15 to 25 per cent on their heating

BEFORE

AFTER

bills by installing new low-E, Argon- or Kypton-filled windows,” David says, noting that Rusco’s installers are Window Wise certified, so customers can be assured they are properly installed. “Our windows are custom made. We can do custom colours, and many of our products have a lifetime warranty,” he adds. “Our windows are very efficient and we also have self-cleaning glass, so there is less maintenance. We also have a new Diamond Series, with wider air space for triple glaze windows, so it performs better.” With siding, Rusco offers a variety of choices such as Hardie Board, CertainTeed, insulated vinyl, acrylic stucco and PVC-coated steel – David’s preferred choice because “it’s durable, fire-rated, energy efficient and stands up to hail storms.” To book your exterior renovation project, call 403-250-9951 or visit www.ruscoindustries.com.

28 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS AUG - SEP 2015

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Find the perfect piece for your decor

at ROSSINI’S FURNITURE by HEATHER RYAN

HOMEOWNERS WHO DESIRE TO UPDATE THEIR DECOR with beautiful, quality furniture pieces that can be customized to fit anyone’s tastes and style, can find the perfect piece at Rossini’s Furniture. “We specialize in leather furniture and we have lots of sectionals and home theatre styles that are very functional and we’re quite proud that they’re all Canadian made,” says Rossini’s store manager Terri Medernach. “Our furniture is also customizable, so it can fit in any size room and a client can pick a style and comfort, and we can help them with the configuration and colour.” Whether you have room for only two seats or 10, Rossini’s can provide customers with numerous options, such as reclining seats and drop-down tables, and configurations such as having one side longer or shorter, and customers can choose 30 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS AUG - SEP 2015

from leather or fabric. Medernach notes that this time of year is ideal for homeowners to plan how they want their home theatres and sectionals to look, as it takes six to 10 weeks to build the custom pieces. Ordering now means they can be ready for the start of the hockey season or for winter when they spend more time indoors and want to relax in comfort. “The hot colour right now is grey,

and we have more than 50 shades of grey to choose from,” she says with a smile. “Customers are choosing from light to dark grey and everything in between and adding bright colours such as green, orange, yellow, red and blue with accent chairs and cushions. “We’re also seeing a trend with people getting a leather sectional and adding one or two chairs in fabric to mix things up; it’s a nice way to warm up the room.” Rossini’s also specializes in condo-size furniture, including sectionals, sofas and chairs, which are diﬃcult to find, Medernach comments.

“Most often, you see large sectionals, but we have a supplier who does the smaller designs to fit the smaller spaces, and they are lower to the ground so they can fit any body and any room.” Along with a great selection of furniture for living rooms and home theatres, Rossini’s carries dining room furniture and showcases several multi-functional tables in the showroom that can seat four to 12 people by pulling out the extensions, which are self-stored inside the table. As for colour, the trend is toward grey with brown undertones, giving it a striking, contemporary look and solid woods such as ash, maple and walnut. This colour trend also continues into Rossini’s bedroom furniture where customers will be pleased to discover many pieces that offer storage either in the footboard or on the sides. “We’re carrying this design because we had so many customers saying they looked everywhere and couldn’t find it, and we have a couple of manufacturers who are creating them, so we’re now fully stocked and have many different styles on the showroom floor.” To view the latest styles, and speak to the highly-skilled and knowledgeable sales people at Rossini’s, who follow the design industry and can provide helpful advice, visit the showroom at 711 48 Ave. S.E. Rossini’s has something to fit any budget and a variety of payment options. Learn more at rossinis.com. AUG - SEP 2015 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 31

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home and garden

photo supplied by BARKMAN CONCRETE

BLUES IN THE GARDEN by BONNY DANN/ESCAPES INC. photos courtesy ESCAPE INC. NESTLED BETWEEN GREEN AND VIOLET ON THE COLOUR SPECTRUM IS THE COLOUR BLUE. Half the world’s population consider blue to be their favorite colour. It is the colour of the sky and the sea. It is associated with harmony, faithfulness, peace and tranquility and promotes both physical and mental relaxation. It’s no wonder then, when it comes to gardening, blue is the most sought after colour and infusing this tranquil colour into your space is very easy to do.

I have several favourite flowering plants like the ‘Blue Angel’ Clematis and the ‘Blue Light’ Clematis. Both are climbing vines that work well for privacy screens or trellis. The Centaurea Montana, is a large perennial the size of a peony and although some gardeners consider it a weed because of the way it self-seeds and shows up all over your garden, I allow it to flourish in mine - just because of its blue flowers! I think there is nothing more beautiful than a goldfinch sitting on a Centaurea Montana blossom. Irises are a spring blooming perennial, readily available and inexpensive, which come in several shades of blue and in varying heights so it is indispensible in the perennial garden. As we tend to allow purples to slide into this category both Lavender and Nepeta (also known as Catmint or Catnip) fit right in, forming soft bluish clumps that are both beautiful and fragrant. Royal Candles Veronica are a medium sized perennial with true blue spikes of blooms adding colour and interest. Vinca (or Periwinkle) is an evergreen ground cover with either true blue or purplish blooms. The foliage can be either green or variegated. For the sheer variety of blue though, Delphiniums are the reigning queens. There are almost a dozen different hues

available, everything from indigo to sky blue, azure to lavender, and blue with a white eye or a black eye. Another tall perennial similar to the Delphinium is Monkshood. A true blue bloomer, this fall-flowering perennial is also available in bi-colour. Layering in columnar Junipers will add this hue and provide the height that keeps a garden interesting. Several bluish tones such as Wichita Blue, Moonglow and Medora are generally available. Blue Star, Blue rug, and Blue chip are a few horizontalis Junipers, which are the ground cover varieties. On the deciduous side, Blue Fox Willow, Dwarf Arctic Willow, a few varieties of the white flowering Spirea, and finally Potentilla Abbotswood all have blue-green foliage. The subtle shades found in Colourado Blue Spruces, Globe Blue Spruces, and perennials such as Artemisia and Lambâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ears are readily found, and some varieties of Brunnera macrophylla or Bugloss have silvery-blue foliage like Lambâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ears and produce bright blue Forget-Me-Not-like flowers in the spring. AUG - SEP 2015 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 35

Failing finding enough blue in your plant material selection using blue or blue-green pots is an excellent way to infuse blue to your gardens. You can also paint gates, obelisks, or other garden structures, or add it in the form of garden furniture and cushions. The recycled plastic Adirondack or Muskoka chairs come in several shades. Wicker and metal sets of furniture sometimes come with blue upholstery or you can simply add blue cushions to a neutral upholstered set. There are all kinds of readily available blue accessories to complement gardens and outdoor living areas. But be sure to exercise restraint when it comes to adding

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FAILING FINDING ENOUGH BLUE IN YOUR PLANT MATERIAL SELECTION USING BLUE OR BLUE-GREEN POTS IS AN EXCELLENT WAY TO INFUSE BLUE TO YOUR GARDENS.

accessories or painting objects with bright colours; if you don’t keep it simple, you may end up with clutter instead of the relaxing space you want. Perhaps the reason we long for blue in our gardens is the peacefulness we feel when we’re near this beautiful colour. Think for a moment about lying on the ground as a child, watching the clouds move across the sky, or about watching the ocean as you stroll along on the shore. Adding this colour to your outdoor spaces in whatever way suits your life style will bring that same peacefulness to your gardens and to you. So take the plunge and add a little blue to your outdoor living spaces - just for you!

BONNY DANN is owner and expert landscape designer at Escapes Inc. www.escapesinc.ca

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CONCRETE IS AN IDEAL MEDIUM TO EXPRESS RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN art and craft, between architecture and contracting. There is something powerful – something emotional – about projects that evolve from actual hands-on experience with the material, coupled with an understanding of the pattern language of design principles. Imagine a countertop mix that you could form, pour and demold in 24 hours or less. SureCrete’s Xtreme Concrete Countertop redefines the word “simplicity.” The reason Hard Rock Developments can make this bold statement is because of the scientific breakthroughs in the mix design, along with innovations in finishing techniques. Whether you are a seasoned contractor or a do-it-yourselfer (DIY), there is no smarter or easier concrete countertop mix on the market than SureCrete’s Xtreme Series Pre-Casting

concrete countertop bag mix. The small aggregate allows for the user to easily create any texture or look without worrying about exposing unwanted large aggregates. The pre-blended fibre put in the 50-lb concrete countertop mix delivers all the reinforcement you will need. That means no rebar, no steel and no wire mesh. This allows the applicator to pour his concrete countertop as thin as a half-inch. Hard Rock Developments is pleased to share its extensive knowledge, built on years of concrete design exploration and technical experimentation, and to offer their proprietary line of SureCrete Xtreme Concrete Countertop Mix – plus all the tools and instruction you’ll need to make beautiful, long-lasting professional looking concrete projects. Decorative concrete countertop seminars are available. Please contact us for more information.

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feature

COLOUR COMMITMENT by MICKEY FOULDS

COMMITMENT. This one powerful word strikes fear in the hearts of many. Once we are committed it ends the rich diversity of choice available to us, so frequently we pick the neutral “safe choice” option, which in itself, if you think about it, is a choice that does not necessarily reﬂect what you really want! This phenomenon can play out in many parts of our lives, including interior design selections. We often play it safe with neutrals and choose the taupe sofa, because we can always change the splash of colour and vibrant pattern of the throw pillows when our preferences evolve or trends change. Neutral is forever! 40 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS AUG - SEP 2015

This is the case even more-so when we make costly and more permanent investments involving products such as tile, stone countertops or exterior siding. We consider and generally exclude current “ﬂavour of the month” trends, anything with strong pattern or colour even though we may really love it, and head over to the safety of relative anonymity. The most daring choices, if any, will often be made in the realm of paint colour because it is relatively easy to change. I have had clients for whom the thought of a rich and beautiful tangerine in a small powder room was almost anxiety inducing, but when the low cost, low time investment paint job was done, the response was pure delight – barely a “risk”, and clearly one well worth taking. So when should we make a costly colour commitment, and when is it wise to be conservative and stay neutral? After all, for many the family home is the single biggest investment to be made and resale is thus very important. Nevertheless, it is also our home and as such is there to serve us and should be

Loren: So much of what I love in colour and design has been inspired by international travel, especially the Mediterranean countries. Moroccan design -- with the fabulous use of colour, pattern and visual texture -- is a personal favourite. The Europeans too are far more adventurous and embrace colour in their homes. Here in Calgary we are, by comparison, much more conservative and thus stay far more within the safe neutral zone.

Q a happy environment in harmony with who we are, reﬂecting our lifestyle and personal preferences. To further explore this question, I decided to get in touch with the person who immediately springs to mind when I think about embracing the rich and vibrant world of colour in all its glory. My colleague Loren Snyder of Calgary’s Blue Door Décor makes a splash wherever she goes, and her home is alive with a joyous riot of colour and rich design elements.

What has made you so comfortable with expressing your passion for colour both in the way you dress and in your home?

When working with clients, how do you assess whether they are open to committing to colour versus staying within a neutral palate? Loren: It is really important that styling is true to the individual, and that we are not slaves to current fashion. Your home needs to reﬂect who you are, and reﬂect your personal aesthetic and bring you joy when you walk in the door. I will often ask clients what their favourite colour is, a colour that has endured over time. I also have a look in their closets. Clothing and accessories choices are a great way to assess the extent to which people are comfortable embracing colour, and which colours they favour. So instead of the taupe sofa it can be one in their preferred colour instead. Even if colour is strong, selecting the more sophisticated greyed tones (rather than the really bright ones popular with children) creates beautiful interiors which don’t overwhelm or quickly become tiresome. It is also important to ascertain whether it is the client’s forever home, in which case bold choices can be made. If they intend selling within three to five years then, of course, it is pragmatic to consider a more neutral interior with mass appeal.

What about the diﬀerent areas of the house? Where is colour best used? Loren: When it comes to fixed design elements, the powder room is a wonderful space to really play with colour and design. It is advisable to be a little more cautious in the kitchen which is often the heart of the home, and needs to ﬂow comfortably with the rest of the house. So one could do a beautiful granite or quartz with character and pair it with a neutral, visually quiet backsplash. Subway tiles are a go-to choice for a timeless and neutral look. AUG - SEP 2015 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 41

Contemplating stone countertop choices led me to think about the product launch I had recently attended at Floform Countertops in Calgary, and all the options available in their fabulous Cambria quartz products. In particular, I became curious about the Cambria Aberdeen design which has caught my eye many times. It is an exquisite swirl of yellows, oranges and blues in a background of greys reminiscent of a Van Gogh painting. How often would a product that colourful be ordered? Or even the Cambria Classic Collection’s Cardigan Red (a deliciously rich red) or Bala Blue (an aristocratic and elegant saturated blue)? This warranted a conversation with Floform’s knowledgeable Melissa Hatt, which led to some insightful answers.

How frequently do you get customers selecting one of Cambria’s more vibrantly coloured countertops? Melissa: Not very often in residential properties, as most buyers are cautious. The majority of colourful applications are in commercial and retail spaces. That being said, the colour-rich Cambria Aberdeen has been selected by clients for more rustic style homes, and the unique and pretty Rosslyn and Minera from the Jewel Collection are also poplar with more adventurous buyers. Vibrant choices are a high risk, high reward situation. When executed well they can completely outshine the more traditional and conservative options, and the majority of people will love it. The challenge to getting it right lies in the fact that most buyers find it

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42 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS AUG - SEP 2015

hard to work from a sample board and visualise the end product. You mention doing vibrant choices well. How do we go about making sure that our concepts are going to have that wow factor, rather than turning out to be a big mistake? Melissa: I would recommend enlisting the help of a professional designer, as they would be able to see the big picture and help you make the right decisions.

Q Q

Which are the current front runners when it comes to residential quartz countertop choices? Melissa: Somewhat more monochromatic colours - Cambria Torquay is the top seller, followed by others such as New Quay and Laneshaw. As seen in the latest products, new interpretations of marble patterns are popular. Cambriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Desert collection, which are very clean quiet colours are often used in conjunction with bolder patterns. I found it interesting to see that, while bold colour will always be the choice of the more adventurous among us, we have departed from favouring the speckled granite look and are embracing much broader and bolder sweeps of pattern, albeit in neutral colours. Are we stepping out and becoming less conservative? Should you wish to be a little more daring, there are always the measured alternatives where you can play a little but not get burned! For example if you are doing a kitchen renovation,

consider a neutral clean line on the perimeter cabinets and then place that stone that looks like a piece of art on the island. We tend to have no hesitation when hanging pieces of art on the wall, and so often that is where it begins and ends. It is exciting to realise that the celebration of creativity and beauty in design goes far beyond that, and we have opportunities to add stunning, dynamic and show stopping elements to so many other aspects of our homes. So why would you always play in the safe harbour of the known? Consider venturing out a little, and if you are apprehensive, find a trusted designer or showroom consultant who understands your aesthetic to point you in the right direction, or even walk with you on your journey, as you create the home of your dreams.

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

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AUG - SEP 2015 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 43

tips and tricks

Decoding THE CODE by MICHAEL NYIKES

As a follow up to my last article regarding the recent release of the 2014 Alberta Building Code, I’ve since received quite a few questions about what aspects of a house will be affected by the new energy efficiency requirements in Section 9.36.

Improving energy efficiency standards for building construction codes supports Alberta’s Climate Change Strategy, which looks to energy efficiency and conservation as one of the three main approaches to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and reducing demand on Alberta’s energy resources. With that in mind, Alberta has recently adopted the 2011 edition of the National Energy Code of Canada for Buildings (coming-into-force date of May 1, 2016), as well as energy efficiency requirements for housing and small buildings under section 9.36 of the 2014 Alberta Building Code (coming-intoforce date of November 1, 2016). The reason for the long range “coming-into-force” dates is so the construction industry has enough time to make necessary changes on their construction drawings and in the field. The upcoming energy code requirements will deal with: • Building Envelopes (the separation between the interior and the exterior environments of a building, comprising of its exterior walls, roof, foundation and slab-on-ground). • Lighting (includes interior and exterior lighting components and systems connected to the buildings electrical service). • HVAC (heating, ventilating and air-conditioning covers items such as ducting and piping, controls, ventilation and related equipment). • Service Water Heating (the systems used for the supply of water for purposes other than space heating). It’s important to note that energy codes are essentially construction codes (like the Alberta Building Code), except they have energy efficiency as the focus. Whether a large commercial building or a single family house, there will still be several approaches to select from to suit the needs of budget, location and the owner’s desires. The approaches can be described as: • Performance-based - The expected energy performance characteristics for the building are met using a design prepared by a qualified professional, such as an architect. This approach offers the greatest possible design flexibility while still meeting energy efficiency goals.

44 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS AUG - SEP 2015

• Performance-based using Simple Trade-Off - The expected energy performance characteristics for the various building elements are met, however it is possible to “trade-off” increased performance in one element for reduced performance in another. For example: increasing wall insulation to allow for less efficient windows. This can be done by the builder without needing to engage a qualified professional. • Prescriptive-based - The expected energy performance characteristics for the various building elements are met by following the prescribed approach set out in the Code. For example, by following the prescribed level of thermal insulation and amount of windows for the region where the building is to be constructed. From a dollars and cents perspective, most agree that the added upfront construction costs in complying with the new Energy Codes will easily be offset in the monthly mortgage charge on a standard 25 year mortgage, because of the amount of money saved on the monthly heating bill through reduced energy consumption. Some of the factors that can affect upfront construction costs could include: • The existing level of energy efficiency some homebuilders are already using in the construction of their homes (example: whether it is a BuiltGreen home or not). • The size and configuration of the home (example: square footage, number of stories, lot orientation). • The location in the province (example: homes in the south can be constructed slightly differently from those in the north to achieve the same level of energy performance). • The material costs during construction and once the home is occupied. Future Decoding the Code columns will continue to answer readers’ questions about how the provincial safety codes affect 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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feature

HIGH DESIGN

on a budget by CAITLIN BEST

ERICA COOK IS AN INTERIOR DESIGNER AND STYLIST who has appeared on Design Inc. on HGTV and in a number of home and style magazines. At a recent Calgary event, part of a series by Gablecraft at the Bridgeland Crossing Sales Centre, she shared a few tips on design and making your space meaningful without blowing your budget. ASK YOURSELF THIS... When you're redesigning your space, start with the most important room. Do you entertain often? Then focus on the living room. Alternatively, if quiet nights at home seem more like you, then start with the bedroom. SPLURGE FIRST If you find a pricey item that you simply must have in your home, consider how you can re-work the pieces you already have in that room around that new purchase. You might be surprised with the results. LIVE IN YOUR SPACE FIRST It’s always exciting to furnish a new place, but we sometimes go 46 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS AUG - SEP 2015

overboard with purchases that are less than practical. If you can go a few months with the basics, you’ll soon realize what you can and can’t live without. BE ART SMART If you can’t afford a Picasso, then consider other things that will still look great on your wall. For instance, many avid cyclists install mounts to hang up their bicycles right inside their homes and condos. Just remember that art is in the eye of the beholder. DUAL PURPOSE It’s all about finding the ways to get the most use out of furniture. When you buy an end-table, make sure it has drawers for storage. Or, re-use your coffee table books and make your own end tables. Company will think you’re a design genius. RE-PURPOSE THE PAST It’s hard to part with sentimental things, so why not incorporate them? Re-invent that wooden wine box that you brought home from wine country in France, and use it for storage or shelving.

FANCY SCHAMNCY Don’t be afraid to make old things new again. A recent trend has involved people sourcing old army surplus cots and giving them a fresh look with decorative throw pillows. Be creative! RETURN POLICIES Unbeknownst to many shoppers, when you make a return to certain design shops, you can be charged a re-stocking fee. Before you buy, make sure to confirm this policy with the sales staff. MIRRORS Hanging mirrors can be one of the most expensive things about home decor. A leaning mirror will give you a similar effect at a fraction of the price. For more clever tips on making your home fabulous, follow Erica on her blog Moth Design, at moth-design.com

CAITLIN BEST Caitlin Best is a freelance writer based in Calgary. When she's not covering the latest lifestyle trends or hot new restaurants for local and national publications, she's planning her next travel adventure.

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to Save Greenâ&#x20AC;Ś by LAURA LE SEVERAL YEARS AGO I began working with an executive rental company here in Calgary, where I was staging the occasional property that they were restoring to be resold. This is where I had the opportunity to meet Rob Porter, the general contractor for every project that these property developers take on. As the owner of Calgary Prestige Homes for over 25 years, he realized the waste created by the renovation and construction industry was a genuine and growing problem. He was alarmed at the waste he was seeing first hand, and wanted to be a part of the solution, rather than a contributor to the ongoing problem. This is when the wheels were set in motion for his solution.

I believe it safe to say that anyone that works in or around construction knows about the waste. The excuse is that it is too time consuming to try to get rid of excess materials. This particular mindset needs to be changed. Thirty-five percent of all waste at the landfills comes from construction and demolition industries. It is time that consumers and companies take responsibility for themselves and plan ahead. For example, a little planning and an entire oak kitchen in Strathcona can be placed on www.Renoback.com and sold, instead of thrown in a dumpster. The same goes for the windows, doors, lumber, plumbing materials and a lot more; all materials that can be repurposed and re-used. This example is exactly why Rob started www.Renoback. com. Individuals, DIYs, contractors and material providers can all come together and list, buy or set up a business profile on the Renoback.com website. The concept is uniquely different to other websites that offer everything for sale as Renoback.com is specific to the construction and renovation world. It has the intent of developing a circular economy, reducing the amount of perfectly good building materials heading to landfill, and to put a little Green back into construction and renovation projects â&#x20AC;&#x201C; hence their motto 'SaveGreen'. The goal of Renoback.com is to be the go-to website for those consumers seeking a deal on gently used and new building materials for their home project; for contractors and material suppliers to list excess items from projects and/or their inventory; and to be a directory for those seeking professional 50

services that who give some thought to the environmental concerns that need to be addressed. As Rob pointed out â&#x20AC;&#x201C; even listing items for free saves money, as this reduces storage costs, eliminates bin rentals and disposing and transportation costs. Imagine, giving materials away for free and saving money. There are several options for companies that would like more online exposure that target specific customers as well as having the benefits of being associated with a Green initiative like Renoback.com. Those wishing to set up a Renoback.com business profile can check out the website for more details. Businesses signing up with Renoback.com will piggyback on the social media and traditional media marketing initiatives that they have recently engaged as well as establish an on-line retail store, which simplifies listings and increases traffic to their brand. This is a win-win for everyone! Renoback.com also keeps the information flowing with periodic newsletters on their blog and other

THIRTY-FIVE PERCENT OF ALL WASTE AT THE LANDFILLS COMES FROM CONSTRUCTION AND DEMOLITION INDUSTRIES social media platforms. They are in the planning stages of attending trade shows and other public events across Alberta in the months ahead, before they aggressively expand across the country – and beyond. The goal of Renoback.com is to encourage builders, suppliers and trades to become more sensitive to environmental issues and reuse or repurpose materials instead of filling up landfills with perfectly good material. And what’s wrong with a little cash at the end of the day? The mission of Renoback.com is to, "Improve the environmental quality of our local communities by bridging the gap between home owners, services and businesses. Blending together a marketplace built on the awareness of sustainable, efficient and sensible solutions where we live, work & play." This is one home grown Alberta company that you should keep your eyes on because they are going places. They have a great story and I do believe that we can all afford to SaveGreen. Renoback.com, a unique free online classified service that provides the answers we seek, and the solutions we all need.

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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tips and tricks

Allergy-proofing your home by SHELL BUSEY

EACH SEASON, DIFFERENT TINY POLLEN PARTICLES ARE RELEASED FROM TREES, WEEDS, AND GRASSES, CAUSING SEASONAL ALLERGIES, commonly referred to as hay fever. While Pollen is one of the leading causes of seasonal allergies, irritants inside the home may be to blame as well? Individuals with pollen allergies can develop sensitivities to other allergens such as dust mites, pet dander, and mould spores. The first step in treating allergies is to avoid what you are allergic to. The following are effective ways of reducing exposure to allergens inside your home. Minimize Exposure to Dust Mites: Allergy to dust mites is one of the most common causes of allergies in the home. They are microscopic bugs that feed off human skin, therefore found in great abundance where we live. Dust mites live in mattresses, pillows, beddings and carpets. Some measures to minimize the problem of dust mites include: • Encase your mattress and pillows with specially-made dust mite mattress covers. Air permeable is more comfortable for the mattress. Less expensive plastic or vinyl covers can be used for the box spring. Covers should be washed or wiped down weekly. • Wash all bedding sheets and pillowcases in hot water weekly. • Avoid feather pillows and down comforters. Purchase washable pillows, comforters and blankets and wash them in hot water once a month. • Keep your bedroom free of clutter: books, upholstered furniture, fabric curtains, stuffed toys and boxes are dust collectors. • Stuffed toys should be washed in hot water or kept overnight in a freezer to reduce dust mite levels. Avoid giving kids with allergies stuffed toys, as these can collect dust. • Hard surfaces and window blinds should be cleaned every week with a damp cloth. • Vacuum rugs and carpets at least once a week. It is best to use a central vacuum that vents to a garage or outside. Vacuum cleaners with a HEPA filter may prove some benefit. • Clean carpets, rugs and upholstery regularly. This will help to reduce the circulation of dust and dust mites in your home. • If you can remove carpets, rugs, and heavy curtains from your bedroom. Consider installing hardwood, cork, linoleum and tile on floors. Hard surface floors should be cleaned with a damp mop regularly. • People with allergies should also avoid airborne irritants,

including tobacco smoke, aerosols, paint, perfumes, cleaning products or other strong odors or fumes. • Consider installing a Central Air Cleaner or Heat Recovery Ventilator (HRV) by Lifebreath. I have recently tested an air purifier called IQAir. It stops the smallest, most harmful particles in the air, all the way down to 0.003 microns – the smallest particles that exist. That includes viruses, pet dander, dust mites, air pollution and even cigarette smoke. • Dust mites do not live in air ducts. If you have a pet you should have your ducts cleaned every three years, if you do not, every ive years is sufficient. • Check and clean or replace your furnace filters with a good quality filter on a monthly basis. Check the M.E.R.V. rating (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value). The higher the MERV rating the more efficient the filter is at removing air particles. • Installing an intake filter on the air supply reduces the entry of dust-laden air before it enters the ductwork and furnace by filtering and removing dust from the air stream. Be sure to clean these filters regularly. Control Humidity Keep the humidity in your house below 50 per cent; dust mites don’t like to live in a place with low humidity. Ideal humidity is 30 to 40 per cent. Humidity is measured by a hygrometer which can be obtained from hardware stores. • Install exhaust fans in your bathroom and kitchen that exhaust directly to the outside. • Let your bathroom fan run for one hour or longer after you shower or bathe. • Let your kitchen fan run for 20 minutes after cooking. • Seal up air leaks with weatherstripping and caulking to improve winter humidity conditions and reduce your heating bill.

52 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS AUG - SEP 2015

EVERY YEAR THERE

Controlling Dust when Remodelling • Preparations should be done during a home remodelling project to reduce allergens caused by dust particles spreading throughout the rest of the home. • Inform the contractor about any allergies. • Seal off the area to be remodelled with plastic sheets; leave plastic sheeting up until cleanup from the job is complete. • Open windows in the room being remodelled and set up a fan to exhaust air towards the outside. • Close and seal the vents with Polyethylene in the area being remodelled so that dust won’t travel though the air ducts. • Change your furnace filter often since it will pick up more particles than usual. • Vacuum and sweep daily to prevent dust from spreading. Note: Have heating ducts professionally cleaned after renovations as well as new home construction, as there is no way to prevent 100 per cent saw dust and other building materials from finding their way into vents. For more home-improvement information or to send Shell an email, go to www.AskShell.com and become a member of Shell’s HouseSmart club. SHELL BUSEY

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