Calgary Home Decor & Renovations - APR/MAY 2015

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APR - MAY 2015 VOLUME 13 ISSUE 2

CALGARY EDITION

Maximize your space with a renovation FROM TRADEMARK RENOVATIONS

TIPS AND TRICKS

TRANSFORM YOUR BACKYARD

THE LATEST GARDENING TRENDS

organized GET YOUR HOME

NOW!

“a house is made of walls and beams, a home is built with love and dreams�

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IN

• AR

• CALGARY ’S DS R AR

NA NOMI TED 4X

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TOR OF THE YE OVA EN

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For Those Who Value Luxury, Quality And Exceptional Design 403.203.7676 + WWW.ALBIRENOVA.COM

contents

VOLUME 13 ISSUE 02

APR - MAY 2015

42

57

FREE

APR - MAY 2015 VOLUME 13 ISSUE 2

CALGARY EDITION

Maximize your space with a renovation FROM TRADEMARK RENOVATIONS

business profiles 10 Enhance Your Home, a 1970s Lake Bonavista home gets a contemporary facelift

BY MICHELLE HOPKINS

18 The latest BLANCO products to hit the market

28 Cardel Renos makes homeowners renovation dreams a reality

TIPS AND TRICKS

TRANSFORM YOUR BACKYARD

BY HEATHER RYAN

32 Kayu Canada: A stunning deck

THE LATEST GARDENING TRENDS

can transform your backyard into an oasis

organized GET YOUR HOME

NOW!

cover story

pg

12

HOMEOWNERS GAIN MORE PRACTICAL, FUNCTIONAL SPACE THROUGH RENOVATIONS COVER PHOTO COURTESY OF TRADEMARK RENOVATIONS

BY MICHELLE HOPKINS

57 Urban trends 59 Your wood flooring:

The right environment can keep your floors like new

BY SHELL BUSEY

spring inspiration 34 New and exciting shrubs and trees

BY BONNY DANN / ESCAPES INC.

37 Creating beauty & colour in

small areas: Urban gardening

BY JACKIE SWARTZ

renomark features 16 The renovation industry creates 21 Why is it so challenging to jobs

BY BRYAN TUCKEY

tips and tricks 20 Fences and privacy walls

BY VANESSA GASH

26 Top reno tips from homeowners 30 D.I.Y. - Decorative concrete projects

BY BRIAN GRAHAM

39 Exterior renovations enhance your home

COURTESY OF THE CANADIAN HOME BUILDERS’ ASSOCIATION

42 What is a professional renovator 50 Decoding the code

BY MICHAEL NYIKES

stay organized?

BY MICKEY FOULDS

44 Staging for a

competitive market

BY LAURA LE

52 Spring into action

BY ADENE LUCAS

expert advice 48 Laundry in style

BY JO ALCORN

style file 62 On our radar:

Black and white stripes

Renovations that Inspire

Renovating your home?

Planning to build your dream home?

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

...Design is not just what it looks and feels like.

Design is how it works.

5

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Entertaining with

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TO BOOK YOUR ADVERTISING SPACE CONTACT: Anita Van Breevoort 403.461.5518 anita.vanbreevoort@ypnexthome.ca Brought to you by the publishers of

6 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS APR - MAY 2015

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EDITOR’SNOTEBOOK

APR - MAY 2015 VOLUME 13 ISSUE 02 PRESIDENT, YELLOW PAGES NEXTHOME

Jacqueline Hill EDITOR-IN-CHIEF / DIRECTOR OF CONTENT

Susan Legge SENIOR SALES MANAGER, WESTERN CANADA

Edwin Rizarri ART DIRECTOR

Victoria Cigan

Is your home reaching its full potential?

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Sara Duck

Do you have a problem area in your home? A room that doesn’t meet your needs? It might be time to call in the experts! Sometimes, we get so used to a space that we don’t realize its full potential. Case in point – my laundry room. I use the phrase “laundry room” loosely because this space is really multi-purpose – it has a second bathroom, furnace and storage facility attached to it. This is one room with an identity crisis.

MEDIA CONSULTANT

Anita van Breevoort, 403.461.5518 Anita.VanBreevoort@ypnexthome.ca

PRODUCTION MANAGER

We needed help, the sort that is beyond my creative design capabilities. We needed to hire a designer to reevaluate the space on how to better utilize it. And we are so glad we did! Although construction begins in a matter of weeks, we are so impressed with the draft of the final design. The room will now be, first and foremost, a gorgeous second bathroom with the laundry, storage and furnace elements cleverly concealed. Some things are best left to the pros, and when it comes to renovation, this is definitely the case.

Are you thinking of maximizing a space in your home to its full potential?

Turn to our cover story on page 12 for inspiration.

Bala Gnanapandithan PRODUCTION CO-ORDINATOR/ GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Greg Van Sluytman GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Viosa Barileva, Mike Terentiev, Miguel Cea 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, Michelle Hopkins

Regardless of whether you’re renovating this season, wouldn’t you agree that getting organized in the home is a top priority? Before you tackle each room, you may want to pick up The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up

by Japanese organizational consultant Marie Kondo ($20. chapters.indigo.ca). Among other effective tips, the book helps you organize your home based on one criteria for keeping objects: Does the item “spark joy”? If it does, keep it; if it doesn’t, throw it away (curb, sell or donate).

When you look at items with this objective, getting rid of items in order to de-clutter your home becomes a simple task.

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.

This month we also have great advice from writer Mickey Foulds, who tackles the question: Why is it so challenging to stay organized, on page 21.

We hope you enjoy the issue!

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

Cheers,

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

HOME DÉCOR AND RENOVATIONS

SARA DUCK EXECUTIVE EDITOR, YP NEXTHOME sara.duck@ypnexthome.ca Follow me on twitter: twitter.com/saraduckHDR

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.

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

8 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS APR - MAY 2015

2891 Sunridge Way NE Calgary, AB T1Y 7K7 T 403.461.5518

www.calgaryrenovations.com

BUILDING YOUR DREAMS Call Us For A Complementary Assessment #12, 3650-19th St. NE, Calgary 403.275.2588 info@calgaryrenovations.com

Less Talk More Action

BUSINESSPROFILE

ENHANCE YOUR HOME

1970S LAKE BONAVISTA HOME GETS

A CONTEMPORARY FACELIFT

by MICHELLE HOPKINS

K

atie and Adam Melnyk love Lake Bonavista, but their outdated split-level home wasn’t functional for the busy family of four.

“The house was built in the late seventies and the floor plan was really choppy,” says Katie. “We wanted a more open, contemporary floor plan and a more spacious kitchen.”

Having previously been dissatisfied with the builder of their (former) new home, Katie and Adam weren’t going to take a chance on any renovator. After checking out a number of companies, the couple chose Enhance Your Home Renovations.

“As soon as we met with the owner Randy (Kaminsky), we knew we found our renovator,” says the mom of two young children. “He was articulate, he shared our vision, he understood our plans and he stayed within our budget.”

The crew expanded the footprint of the kitchen by taking out a wall, which allowed for great flow throughout the kitchen, living and dining rooms, as well as made room for a gorgeous kitchen island.

Because they lived in the home during the renovations, Katie adds Randy addressed her safety concerns and they tidied up every night before leaving.

What impressed Katie and Adam even more was the fact that Enhance Your Home offered everything under one roof.

“Every product we needed, from the backsplash, countertops, mouldings, hardware, flooring to the paint, was in their design centre,” adds Katie. “It simplified the process because we didn’t have to go driving around everywhere.”

With more than three decades in the industry, Randy Kaminsky understood the renovation challenges facing most homeowners. Realizing many clients complained about the amount of time it took them to run around the city choosing products to bring their vision to fruition, Randy founded Enhance Your Home eight years ago.

“We offer a wide range of high quality products,” says Randy. “We order everything direct from the distributor or 10 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS APR - MAY 2015

manufacturer, which means selections are done in days rather than months, so the renovation can start sooner.”

Enhance Your Home’s bright and open show room features everything you need right there on display and the items are labeled with blue dots (to indicate standard items), so customers can choose from a wide selection of items included in their quote and also see what is available at an extra cost.

“This ensures simplicity, ease and comfort because our customers can see everything they need together under one roof,” he adds. “Our clients can choose a whole main floor renovation in less than three hours.”

In the next year or two, Katie and Adam plan to complete their renovations. “We won’t call anyone else but Enhance Your Home because we trust them completely.

For more information, visit Enhance your Home’s showroom and Design Centre at #163-755 Lake Bonavista Drive SE, call 403-278-8739 or visit www.enhanceyourhome.ca.

BEFOR

E

Can y ou & mak open up our e it mo kitche n re fun ctiona l?

yo ur

Renovations

Enhancing homes

lives!

COVERSTORY

Homeowners gain

MORE PRACTICAL, FUNCTIONAL SPACE THROUGH RENOVATIONS

by HEATHER RYAN

One factor motivating homeowners to renovate is to gain storage and maximize their space, says expert Blair Foisy, owner and president of Trademark Renovations.

“Many of the renovations we do are for people who want more updated, practical and functional spaces,” Foisy says.

“We live a lot differently now than we did in the past… we seem to have more clothes, shoes, backpacks, mobile devices and even small appliances that we need to find room for.

“So we see a lot of homeowners, especially those with homes built 30 or more years ago, wanting to renovate just to organize and fit all of their belongings,” he says.

“With smaller homes people want to incorporate additions onto the existing footprint or add a second storey, and 12 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS APR - MAY 2015

those with larger homes may not have all the modern conveniences so they want to create an updated, more useful space.

“At the same time, many are taking the opportunity to completely update and improve the curb appeal by doing the full exteriors. Things like front entry additions, new and more interesting roof lines, adding dormers, energy efficient windows along with insulation upgrades.”

A feature many homeowners are incorporating into renovation plans are mudrooms that include custom lockers for kids to stash their backpacks and athletic equipment out of sight, big closets for coats and boots and loads of full-height cabinets creating ample storage.

A COOL CUSTOM CABINET THAT EASILY OPENS TO ACCESS THE MACHINES, BUT THEN HIDES THE MACHINES OUT OF SIGHT AND CREATES A VERSATILE, SPACE-SAVING COUNTERTOP FOR FOLDING

“In smaller spaces we’ve created mudrooms with built-in benches that provide hooks above for coats and storage underneath,” Foisy says. “It’s a more open design and maximizes the space.”

In-floor heating is also popular in mudrooms because “it helps dry the floor quicker after kids come in with snowy boots, and makes it comfortable underfoot.”

Laundry rooms are also getting more attention as homeowners want a bigger, more organized work space.

“They want room to hang clothes, a counter for folding and cabinets to store items out of the way,” Foisy says. “The trend in the last few years has been toward the front load washing machines, but we’re seeing the trend is changing back to the top loaders so we’re now accommodating those in the design.”

In a recent renovation, Trademark built a cool custom cabinet that easily opens to access the machines, but then hides the machines out of sight and creates a versatile, space-saving countertop for folding when they’re not in use.

APR - MAY 2015 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 13

Another priority for homeowners is the master bedroom closet. “People want to take the old school closets right out and put in full-sized walk-in closets with full-height, wallto-wall custom built-ins,” Foisy explains. “So they can make use of all the available space from floor-to-ceiling.

“People are thinking more about how to organize the space and they desire built-in drawers, adjustable shelves and racks and shoe racks to ensure everything has its proper place.”

There is a definite move by homeowners, especially with older and smaller homes, “to repurpose their space and make more efficient use of their home’s square footage,” says Foisy. So people are taking out underutilized formal living rooms and dining rooms and opening the space to create larger kitchens with flex space and family rooms.

PEOPLE WANT TO TAKE THE OLD SCHOOL CLOSETS RIGHT OUT AND PUT IN FULL-SIZED WALK-IN CLOSETS WITH FULL-HEIGHT, WALL-TO-WALL CUSTOM BUILT-INS,

14 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS APR - MAY 2015

The kitchen is often considered the heart of the home so it makes sense that it’s the main focus in many renovation projects. “People want a working, functioning, organized space with plenty of storage and modern touches,” Foisy says. “So we’re putting in pullout shelves and magic corners to utilize every space, custom building full-height cabinets to provide maximum storage space and we’re replacing corner pantries with bigger, more accessible floor-to-ceiling pull-out pantries that actually hold as much if not more than corner ones.”

Trademark is also creating innovative storage ideas for small appliances. For example, Foisy explains they integrated a custom cabinet for a commercial style mix master. “The client loves to bake, so we created a dedicated storage space where the heavy mixer can be easily pulled out and the spring loaded leverage shelf lifts up making it the same height as the counter top so it’s easy to use,” he says. “There is no more heavy lifting or having to leave the appliance on the countertop.”

Built-in coffee makers, juice stations, warming drawers, drawer fridges/freezers, and steam ovens are just some other appliances that have been incorporated into kitchen designs.

A popular component in the kitchen is the larger singlesurface island. “People are making these as big as they can in the space,” Foisy says. “They want the island to be the one of the focal points because the kitchen has really become the gathering space for the family and entertaining while having a large flat surface is versatile by providing plenty of work space, storage and room for people to comfortably sit around it.”

RENOMARK

THE RENOVATION INDUSTRY CREATES JOBS

by BRYAN TUCKEY

YOUR HOME IS LIKELY THE LARGEST ASSET YOU WILL ever

have, so when the time comes to renovate, you want to make sure it’s done right.

A home renovation can significantly improve the value of your home, as well as make it more enjoyable for you and your family.

Whether you are opening up your living room to embrace modern open-concept design, upgrading your bathroom with energyefficient features or simply adding a recreational room in your basement – all these projects require the attention of a professional renovator.

A professional renovator has the knowledge and experience to assess your project and provide you with a reasonable timeframe and price tag. These details will be included in a written and signed contract and your renovator should maintain a constant stream of communication to ensure that you are kept up-to-date on the progress status.

I understand the temptation behind hiring someone for cash under the table to avoid paying tax, but doing so is risky business.

If you think hiring a professional is expensive, just wait and see how much it costs to repair a project handled by an amateur.

Professional renovators, such as the ones bearing the RenoMark brand, carry all applicable licenses and permits, provide at least two years of warranty on all jobs and ensure that all agreements are documented in a detailed, legal contract – the most important part of a renovation project.

Without a formal contract, a renovator cannot be held accountable for producing substandard work or even for bailing on the job. This will leave the homeowner’s hands tied if legal recourse is in order, which often results in hiring a professional to finish or repair the existing work – something that may cost a lot more than simply hiring a pro from the beginning.

Another great reason to use a professional renovator is its contribution to the local economy. The renovation industry

BRYAN TUCKEY Bryan Tuckey is president and CEO of the Building Industry and Land Development Association and a land-use planner who has worked for municipal, regional and provincial governments. Follow him on Twitter @bildgta, facebook.com/bildgta, and bildblogs.ca.

16

creates thousands of new jobs every year in construction and related fields. These wages later show up as purchases of food, clothing or entertainment across our local economy, further adding to our region’s economic growth.

Renovators operating in the underground economy are detrimental to the economic prosperity of our region, withholding thousands of dollars worth of tax-generated revenue. This is money that can be used to improve our communities by building or repairing roads, community centres and charitable events.

It’s important to consider the economic implications of using an underground renovator and realize that it’s detrimental to our neighbourhoods.

There are hundreds of professional renovators available for hire, many of which are associated with the RenoMark program – a great tool for homeowners to find professional renovators, trade contractors and custom home builders in their area.

Just visit renomark.ca to learn more about the RenoMark Code of Conduct that every RenoMark renovator has agreed to abide by. Next visit the Find a Renovator section to search for a professional contractor near you.

You’ll be glad you did!

BUSINESSPROFILE

BLANCO

Everything AND THE KITCHEN SINK THE LATEST BLANCO PRODUCTS TO HIT THE MARKET WILL EMBELLISH THE LOOK AND ELEVATE THE FUNCTION OF YOUR KITCHEN

W

orld leader in kitchen technology, BLANCO celebrates 90 years of quality design and manufacturing excellence worldwide.

This product spotlight is on BLANCO SILGRANIT™—Canada’s leading coloured sink material, a unique and durable composite combined with 80 per cent natural granite that comes in more than 100 models and seven colours. BLANCO SILGRANIT™ sinks are proudly made in Canada.

COLOUR MY WORLD Grays have been dominating the design scene for some time now and have claimed their rightful place as a popular neutral, so it is fitting that the seventh colour to be added to the SILGRANIT™ sink finish is Metallic Gray. The new colour is versatile and works well not only with neutral shades, but also with woods, as well as light and dark colour palettes. “Thanks to its natural mid-gray colour tone with a subtle sheen, Metallic Gray is highly compatible with current kitchen cabinetry and countertop trends that are based on earth colours, gray shades, wood tones and white colour schemes. In addition, it blends in perfectly with stainless steel kitchen appliances. Metallic Gray provides a fresh approach to kitchen design with this mid-tone gray SILGRANIT™ sink choice,” explains BLANCO’s Marketing Manager, Edyta Drutis.

18 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS APR - MAY 2015

SILGRANIT™ FINISHES INCLUDE: ANTHRACITE, CINDER, CAFÉ, TRUFFLE, BISCOTTI, WHITE AND NOW THEIR LATEST, METALLIC GRAY.

SMALL-SPACE SIMPATICO The BLANCO PRECIS™ collection has turned their sights to small-space dwellers with the most recent launch of their BLANCO PRECIS™ with Drainboard sink. Its compact, practical, single-bowl design is perfect for small kitchens. This new sink incorporates a drainer board that delivers function and contemporary style with its wave design feature. This undulating modern shape is extended to the stainless steel grid tray (included with the sink) that fits over the sink’s drainboard and slides inside the sink as the drainboard extension. In sync with the necessary multi-purpose products that work best in a small space, it serves as a multi-functional sink accessory that can hold hot pots, pans and dishes, not only on the sink surface but also on the kitchen counter, and even functions as a trivet on a dining table. This sink can be installed as a topmount or an undermount and has reversible positioning capacity. Other accessories you can add are the custom-designed stainless steel Colander and Beech Cutting Board that fit perfectly over the sink. And for increased versatility, products for the bottom level of the sink, add a stainless steel Grid and Mesh Basket.

IT’S A MATCH Every BLANCO faucet stands for quality, European design and unparalleled German engineering, AND a large faucet selection is offered in distinct colours, matching BLANCO SILGRANIT™ sinks. blancocanada.com

Rethink the Sink BLANCO QUATRUSTM Gourmet Series

Smart and Innovative Sink Solution. Where function meets style and practicality.

BLANCO QUATRUSTM Gourmet Series provides you with a fresh approach to daily life in the kitchen. It not only complements our QUATRUSTM sinks but also works with them to make your life easier. BLANCO QUATRUSTM Gourmet Series allows customizing your sink for your individual lifestyle needs with the Ash Cutting Board, Multilevel Grids and Sink Workstation.

Rethink the Sink with our BLANCO QUATRUSTM Gourmet Series. www.blancocanada.com

19

TIPSANDTRICKS

Fences and Privacy Walls

by VANESSA GASH

AS WE ENJOY THE WARMER DAYS OF SPRING,

many of us start thinking of longer days, barbeques on the deck and evenings around the backyard fire pit. All of these activities are great ways to connect and socialize with family and friends. The majority of homes in Calgary and area are quite close to neighbouring properties and typically share a property line with one or more neighbours. As we prepare to enjoy these outdoor activities, we often realize we need additional privacy.

The most likely option to increase privacy is usually a fence surrounding the property. As long as the height and location of the fence meet the rules of the Land Use Bylaw, neither a Building Permit (BP) nor Development Permit (DP) is required.

A few things to note: • You may build a fence to a maximum height of 2 metres (6 feet, 6 inches) on the rear and side boundaries of your property up to the front most face of your home • Fences beyond the front face of your home are generally restricted to 1.2 metres (4 feet) • The height is always measured from ground level, known as grade, to the top of the fence • If your property is not flat, the top of your fence should follow the slope or contour of the land • If the fence is located on top of a retaining wall the 2 metre height is measured to the side with the highest grade Another option to provide privacy for raised areas on your property is to build privacy walls. These walls are typically constructed using the same materials as a fence, but may also incorporate features such as, glass or lattice. Any deck with a surface of 0.6 metres (2 feet) above grade requires a BP for a privacy wall, which can be a maximum height of 2 metres (6 feet, 6 inches); if built along with a deck, they will be reviewed on the same BP. A deck which already has an approved permit will require a BP for the privacy wall to ensure it meets the Alberta Building Code requirements. Horizontal pieces which can be climbed or lattice with openings greater than 1 inch, are not permitted. Additionally, if a bench is installed against the privacy wall, there must also be the minimum wall height above the surface of the bench to act as the guard.

In between two semi-detached dwellings a privacy wall is required; it must be a minimum of 2 metres and a maximum of 3 metres from the deck surface and is required to extend the full depth of the deck or balcony. On a patio (surface less than 0.6 metres off the ground) a privacy wall is considered a

20 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS APR - MAY 2015

fence and therefore the maximum height is 2 metres from the ground, not the surface of the patio. Neither the patio nor the privacy wall on it will require a DP or a BP. There are a few circumstances to be aware of where permits or further information may be required: • If you live in a townhouse or condominium complex you may need a DP. This type of project is required to have a DP before construction of the entire development. Future changes to the original design may also require approval • If your home is located in the floodway a DP is required • Fences built on retaining walls that are higher than 1 metre will require permits for the retaining wall itself • If you wish to build a fence that is taller than the allowable heights a DP is required • If your land title has any restrictive covenants, caveats or other restrictions listed on the Certificate of Title, the owner is responsible to make sure that the construction will not contravene these requirements. This may refer to special requirements for developer-provided fences or those bordering green spaces. If you do not have a copy of your land title these may be reviewed by contacting Alberta Registries.

A common question is: who is responsible for a fence between neighbours? If a fence is located on the property line between two neighbours, both are responsible. Any cost of construction and maintenance is a private issue between neighbours. If a fence is located wholly on your property you are responsible for it.

Brochures, including descriptive graphics, are available online at the calgary.ca. If you have specific questions about the Land Use Bylaw, permits and Alberta Building Code requirements, call 403.268.5311.

VANESSA GASH, LEED AP SAFETY CODES OFFICER – RESIDENTIAL BUILDING REGULATIONS

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.

FEATURE

WHY IS IT SO CHALLENGING TO

Stay ORGANIZED?

by MICKEY FOULDS

A NEW YEAR FOR THE MOST PART STILL LIES AHEAD OF US and Christmas has become a distant pleasant memory. The first couple of months of any new year are always bursting with potential – that wonderful clean slate just waiting for all of our best intentions to be realised!

Here we are, well into 2015! By now, not only have those wonderful New Year’s resolutions been mostly forgotten, but enough time has passed that we also no longer feel guilty about all those abandoned good intentions. Back to normal life as we know it!

For most of us, normal life is busy. Family and friends, work, recreation and responsibilities that need to be met fill our days, and we frequently scramble from one thing to the next. We arrive home, drop all our things, pick up what

we need and are off again. This is followed periodically by a big tidy up and cleaning to restore a sense of order to our homes. And then we’re off again…

It is my very strong belief that our homes should be a sanctuary, a soft place to fall at the end of a full day. Our homes should exist to serve us, rather than being another source of stress and endless work. They should be clutter free, peaceful and comfortable.

Over the years I have seen the interiors and hidden corners of countless homes, and the busy lifestyles of my clients. In assisting with the design of aesthetically pleasing interiors we always need to address functionality, and organizational infrastructure is a very important facet to be considered.

APR - MAY 2015 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 21

because we’re just too tired to question whether or not they are true.

I believe the life we truly desire is on the other side of all of our stuff.”

There is no shortage of storage solutions and organizational systems available to us, which we enthusiastically acquire and implement, restoring order in the short term. However, before long, life resumes its frenetic pace and it slowly starts to fall apart. Piles start to grow in corners, clutter accumulates on countertops and the contents of the linen closet develop a life of their own!

It is relatively easy to get organized. But why is it so incredibly hard to stay organized?

Time to call in the professionals! I decided to ask my very experienced, highly qualified and delightfully charming colleague, Georgina Forrest of Smartworks! Enterprises Inc., for insight and advice.

I found the answer, to my great relief, to be quite simple!

The questions as follows: Why is there so much chaos how does that happen, and why is it such a common problem?

“Quite simply, we buy too much stuff. It’s not our fault entirely though.

We’re bombarded with marketing messages that tell us if we buy the right stuff we can get the life we desire. So we buy the stuff to get the promise.

As a result, our homes get filled with stuff but our lives don’t improve. So we buy more stuff, hoping still, that the life we want is in that next product. And so it goes…

And it’s not just the pressure to buy that we are faced with, there’s also the expectation that our schedules should be filled with work and play. It’s as if we’re not achieving something if we’re not doing something. As a society, we’re exhausted trying to keep up with this fast paced world we live in.

When our lives are filled with chaos, clutter and commitments, our mental and physical energy is drained because too much of our resources go into thinking about and maintaining them. All of this combined, makes it difficult to move through our day. We feel heavy and encumbered. We may even feel hopeless and depressed.

Those marketing messages filled with promises become easier to believe

22 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS APR - MAY 2015

What are we doing wrong in our attempts to be organized, or what part of the process is missing? How do we deal with it?

“Too much emphasis is placed on the stuff itself. Look beyond the stuff.

What is the vision you have for that space or that room? Get very clear on what that looks and feels like. When you’re really clear on this and you know the purpose you have in mind, then deciding what stays and what goes becomes easier, because the only decision you need to make is ‘Does this thing bring me closer to my vision or is it an obstacle?’

If it’s an obstacle – it goes. It takes practice, but as you let go of more stuff – those unfulfilled promises – you will experience a sense of lightness, freedom and happiness. If you doubt that, think of a time when you may have cleaned out a drawer or a cupboard. When it was all done and everything was put back neat and tidy, you were drawn to that space.

You may have stood in that space and simply breathed in that lightness you were experiencing. That feeling can be your life.

We also attack it in too large of a chunk. The stuff was acquired slowly and systematically over time, so it’s not going to go away quickly. It’s more manageable to break any area down into small projects – and sticking to that one area until it is done. Even a small bathroom can be broken down into areas such as the vanity top, the drawers or cabinet, the medicine chest, etc. Once an area is organized, a new set of rules need to be put in place. Even if your habit of acquiring and piling continues elsewhere, in this newly organized area, you must guard against the urge to clutter it back up.

Being organized is an ongoing

process. You don’t organize and then expect it to stay that way without regular maintenance and culling. Being organized means working at it. But it’s much less work, than living in disorganization and chaos.”

With so many systems out there, how do we know what will work best for us?

“Figuring out which system will work for you can take time. Rarely will you find a system that is a perfect fit right out of the box. The key lies in understanding your natural style of organizing. If the thought of hiding your stuff behind closed doors and drawers is frightening, then looking at systems that allow you to organize and keep it accessible will work better for you. If you dream of having all of the stuff out of sight, then closed containers are the solution.

Once you set up the system, work with it for a bit then reassess it. What works about it? What doesn’t? Can you adjust the part that doesn’t so that it does work better for you? Keep tweaking and adjusting it until it does.

When you know yourself, you are better able to make choices that are sustainable and that will allow you actually live your life in flow.”

If we need professional help, how does that work? What does it entail cost wise?

“A professional can help walk you through the tough decisions and leapfrog your way to designing customized systems and solutions using established organizing principles. These solutions are tailored to meet your immediate needs as well as give you the tools to stay organized. A professional organizer provides the motivation, support and encouragement that is necessary when getting and staying organized.

When you hire a professional organizer, you’re making an investment in your future. Being

APR - MAY 2015 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 23

Photo courtesy of SHELFGENIE

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disorganized is expensive. It hampers your productivity and costs you time when you can’t find what you need when you need it. And if you can’t find it then you buy another one – which costs you in your pocket book.

The cost varies depending on the scope of the project and your decision-making pace about your stuff, as well as where you live and the level of experience of the organizer.

Many Organizers offer package pricing that reduces the overall cost. In the Calgary area, you can expect to pay anywhere between $55 an hour up to $100 an hour. A consultation with an organizer will give you an idea of what your project will cost.”

In essence, we need to get rid of all the excess. So there is less to organize and the problem, for the most part, just quietly goes away! For the items we need to keep, we should identify our personal natural style of organizing and then implement the appropriate systems. An hour or two with a professional organizer should sort that out quite easily (or maybe more if you actually want help with the cull.)

I’m heading downstairs to survey the cluttered corners of my basement... and there is every chance that, once I have weeded out the random “stuff”, Georgina may quite possibly be getting a phone call from me!

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

APR - MAY 2015 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 25

TIPSANDTRICKS

Top reno tips from homeowners The Canadian Home Builders’ Association shares tips from homeowners who are reno-veterans.

1 Find a renovator you can trust and are comfortable with. This is crucial to a good renovation experience. You need to check out the renovator thoroughly.

Ask lots of questions when you meet.

Talk with previous customers. Visit past or current projects – you want to feel that “if the renovator did something like that in my home, I’d be very happy.”

You also need to be confident that the company is financially stable and will be around in the future. And while it may be hard to define a comfortable personal fit, you need to feel “in your gut” that you can trust and work well with this person.

2 Make sure you have a detailed written contract. “We chose the renovator who had it all written out. We knew what we were in for and didn’t have to lie awake at night worrying what the final costs would be.”

26

3 Take an active role throughout the project. “It’s your investment and your home, so you want to follow things closely and know what’s going on at all times.” The best results come from good communication and a good working relationship between you and your renovator. A good renovator provides regular, if not daily, updates and is easy to get hold of if you have questions or concerns.

You should be prepared to spend time going over drawings, monitoring the progress of your project, and discussing decisions with your renovator.

4 Don’t expect a problem-free renovation. The bigger the project, the more likely you will run into the unexpected, such as existing deficiencies hidden in the walls, delays in special orders or bad weather.

Be flexible and understand that some things are beyond the renovator’s or your control. “If there is good rapport and trust between you and your renovator, it is usually easy to find a solution and move beyond the problem.”

5 It is not uncommon for homeowners to want to go an extra step – a better quality tile, brand new appliances and so on. “Once you are into it, you realize that just so-so is not good enough, and that now is the best time to get those extra little touches of style or luxury.”

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BUSINESSPROFILE

CARDEL RENOS

Cardel Renos makes

homeowners renovation dreams a reality

by HEATHER RYAN

W

hether you’re looking to update your kitchen or undertake a whole house renovation you’ll want a renovator that has years of experience behind them and an expert team to help you through the entire process.

With 40 years of building experience, Cardel Renos, a Renovation Division of Cardel Homes, helps homeowners make their renovation dreams a reality by undertaking professionally-crafted, quality renovations.

By choosing Cardel Renos, homeowners benefit from an expert team comprised of interior designers, site supervisors, estimators, draftsmen and qualified sales representatives that provide insight and assistance during each step of the renovation. Clients also have the unique opportunity to utilize Cardel’s stunning 11,000-sq.-ft. Design Centre where they can make all of the interior and exterior selections for their renovation project at one location.

“We’re really providing clients with a one-stop shop,” says renovation sales manager Duncan Miller. “We have the ability to handle all aspects of the renovation from applying for all of your permits to making floor plan changes, helping you select finishes and organizing and scheduling trades and suppliers.

“We also have a good working relationship with the city, so we understand the process for development and building permits as well as the regulatory environment and how it can affect both budget and timelines,” Miller says.

As well, he notes that being partnered with a major builder “allows us to tap into its buying power, which gives us a competitive price advantage we can pass onto our clients.

Additionally, we offer a two-year warranty.”

Cardel Renos has extensive experience providing a broad range of renovations including kitchen and bathroom renovations, basement developments, home additions and complete home renovations. Miller comments, “We have clients, both in the inner city as well as in developed communities, who prefer their lot location and are looking for a complete redesign. It’s becoming more common for clients to take advantage of our home-building experience by working with our design team to plan their dream home; we love these types of projects because we can take the home down to the foundation and give them a whole new house.”

If you’re planning a renovation project the spring, contact Cardel Renos, which offers free onsite consultations, at 403-258-1511 or visit www.cardelrenos.com 28 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS APR - MAY 2015

CALL FOR A FREE IN-HOME CONSULTATION

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Backed by 40 years of building expertise, Cardel Renos makes it easy and affordable to update your home. From basements, kitchens and bathrooms to full structural additions and more, we offer a complete range of renovation services.

Our renos team is on the front line of current design techniques, working with you every step of the way to bring Cardel quality to your home renovation. We’ll take care of everything from quote to completion, including all permits and approvals.

EVERY CARDEL RENO INCLUDES Free initial in-home consultation and no-obligation estimate Competitive, accurate pricing with no surprises Full-service guidance from our interior designers Large-scale samples and trusted brands in Cardel’s 11,000 sq ft Design Centre Highly skilled, experienced trades team Exceptional quality control standards RenoMark certification 2 year warranty on workmanship and materials Seasoned project management Full post-reno cleanup

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29

TIPSANDTRICKS

DO IT YOURSELF DECORATIVE CONCRETE PROJECTS

by BRIAN GRAHAM HAVE YOU EVER THOUGHT ABOUT BUILDING AN OUTDOOR COOK STATION, making your own custom concrete tile, or even making your very own

custom concrete shower panels?

Hard Rock Developments in Calgary can help. Hard Rock is the only decorative concrete supplies store in western Canada and we can assist you with virtually any project you have in mind. We are the exclusive distributor of Surecrete Design products. Visit their website at surecretedesign.com We have products for your walls, your basement floor, and even concrete counter tops. We have concrete sealers to protect and revitalize your concrete walkway, patios and driveways. How about your garage? Would you like an epoxy coating to protect your floor? Basement floors? How about concrete stain to enhance the look.

You will not find a more cost effective system that is very easy to install and maintain.

Need training? Hard Rock offers training classes to ensure you have the proper knowledge so that your project has a greater chance of success.

Hard Rock has been in the industry for 15 years. The sales staff are all very knowledgeable and technically experienced when it comes to virtually any project.

We do not install, but we can sure teach you how. We are here to help you through your entire project from start to finish.

You can find us online at www.hardrockdevelopments.com Visit our showroom at 422 ManitouRoad SE , Calgary Phone - 403-240-2508

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30 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS APR - MAY 2015

Concrete Counter Tops

SPRING

INSPIRATION APR - MAY 2015

CREATE THE

backyard of your dreams!

GARDENING TIPS FOR LANDSCAPING WITH SHRUBS AND TREES PHOTO COURTESY OF ULTIMATE RENOVATIONS & KAYU CANADA INC

BUSINESSPROFILE

KAYU CANADA

A STUNNING DECK CAN TRANSFORM YOUR BACKYARD INTO AN OASIS

by MICHELLE HOPKINS

O

ne of HGTV’s most popular renovations shows is Decked Out with Paul Lafrance. According to HGTV, homeowners recover 65 to 90 per cent of their investment by adding a gorgeous deck. In Calgary, builders, renovators and homeowners go to Kayu Canada for their outdoor renovation projects.

David Abbott, owner of Chinook Landscaping and Design wouldn’t go anywhere else. “For every project we work on we use Kayu Canada,” says Abbott. “Not only do they offer a superb selection, the best in Canada, but it’s really about customer service and in this department, Kayu Canada excels.”

Abbott isn’t the only one praising its products and service.

One of downtown Vancouver’s hippest urban outdoor dining patios also went with Kayu Canada for its award-winning outdoor deck.

“BOX Interior Design sought to create a warm and dramatic space for the Roof at Black+Blue and the Kayu flooring product was perfect for meeting the aesthetic and durability needs for this popular Vancouver venue,” says Jay Brooks, principal at BOX Interior Design.

A family-run business, Kayu Canada specializes in some of the world’s best and most durable premium exterior hardwood decking, fencing, interior hardwood flooring and related products that you can find in the world.

A general contractor by trade, Labelle discovered exotic wood decking in 1991 while on a cruise ship holiday. He was so impressed with the look and durability he started bringing it for his clients.

“Within three years, I shut down my contracting business because I was getting far too busy with the outdoor decking and fencing side of my company,” says Labelle.

Not only were residential customers asking for it, architects and interior decorators around town and in B.C. discovered the beauty of the hardwoods Labelle imported. Some of the city’s landmark public spaces are also decked out with Kayu, including the Calgary Riverwalk, Devonian Gardens and the Calgary Soldier’s Memorial Poppy Plaza along the banks of the Bow River in Kensington.

While the beauty and durability of Kayu Canada wood are major reasons why homeowners and architects choose it, there is another deciding factor that makes Kayu a practical choice. All of its woods are flame and termite resistant, making them a safe and practical alternative to why people choose Kayu Canada over other less reliable and costly materials.

In addition, clients are surprisingly delighted to find out

32 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS APR - MAY 2015

that its exotic woods are comparable in price to that of cedar and composite plastics - yet they have no knots, are more durable, harder, resists scratches better and best of all they are gorgeous looking.

“These woods are low maintenance and able to withstand temperature and moisture differences year after year,” says Labelle, adding the hardwoods will last upwards of 30 or 40 years.

Spring is the perfect time to start thinking about your dream deck. Discover how Kayu Canada can transform your deck into the ultimate outdoor space. For more information, Labelle and his team of professionals at Kayu Canada Inc. invite you to come and visit their expansive showroom and discover how they can transform your outdoor space into a beautiful outdoor sanctuary. Call 1-877-666-KAYU (5298) or visit www.kayu.ca.

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To view or download a complete product catalogue please visit www.kayu.ca Photos courtesy of Ultimate Renovations

33

SPRINGINSPIRATION

New and Exciting

SHRUBS AND TREES

by BONNY DANN / ESCAPES INC. photos courtesy EAGLE LAKE NURSERY AND BONNY DANN SPRING IS JUST AROUND THE CORNER and for me it is a very

exciting season! I am sure it is for lots of other Canadians that do not enjoy winter or even those that do but are tired of the lack of colour in the landscape and love to be doing outdoor activities. It is also a very encouraging season for some people, as the air changes, the trees start to bud and little green shoots are springing to life after being dormant for so long, they are given hope. Things will change, will get better, all will be bright, vibrant and alive again soon! As well we will have new and exciting plant material available shortly, new products for hardscape projects and new styles and colours in outdoor furnishings!

Let’s start with plant material! Blaine Johnson, Sunnyside Greenhouses Ltd.‘s manager generously shared with me some of his favourites in the new shrub and tree line up as well as Roni Bhowmick 34 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS APR - MAY 2015

from Eagle Lake Nurseries. At Escapes we have been thrilled with the Hydrangea ‘Quick Fire’ and now we have ‘Little Quick Fire’! Like its parents ‘Little Quick Fire’ 3+ H x 3+W extends the blooming season with its flowers that open in white and transform to pinkred as summer progresses. I find the blooms on ‘Quick Fire’ still attractive as summer winds down and they turn a tan colour and linger through fall giving us three seasons of interest and perhaps ‘Little Quick Fire’ will be the same. The size of ‘Little Quick Fire‘ means it will fit into any garden. ‘Strawberry Sundae’ is a smaller version of ‘Vanilla Strawberry’ at approximately 4’ H x 3’W. Some of Blaine’s other

picks are from the Ninebark family, a hardy shrub that is very popular in Calgary and all three of the new varieties are in the 3’ range which we so need.

‘Summer Wine’, an old variety has always been a favoutite of mine for its foliage colour but is relatively large and therefore sometimes difficult to use so I am really excited about ‘Tiny Wine’ with its dark leaves and white flowers. ‘Tiny Wine’ will contrast beautifully with ‘Sunny Outlook’ with its clear chartreuse leaves, which literally glow in the garden and its white blooms. ‘Maroon Sunset’, as its name suggests, has rich, burgundy-red foliage and white blooms. It is a breeding breakthrough with a unique compact habit. I was delighted with ‘Glow Girl’ Spirea when it came out a few years ago, which is very compact and rounded, without pruning, has bright yellow new foliage maturing to yellow-green and then turning a fantastic orange/red in the fall and white blooms in summer. Now to contrast with ‘Glow Girl’ with have ‘Blue Kazoo’ with cool blue foliage with hints of burgundy, in the new growth, that develops into a rich red autumn colour. ‘Blue Kazoo’ is very distinct with its neat mounded habit and has white blooms.

In Calgary we are always looking for trees that are more columnar or narrow. One of Blaine’s picks

is ‘Top Gun’ Bur Oak, a narrow form of a zone 2 hardy Bur Oak. It has attractive whitish bark and although 40-50’ tall will fit into smaller spaces at 15’ wide. Both Blaine and Roni mentioned ‘Sundancer’ Poplar, it has a columnar form and very little suckering activity, which is good, is hardy to Zone 2, 40’ in height but only 7-10’ wide. As a landscape designer I feel we overuse Aspens and Poplars in Calgary so just can not get excited about a new one! Blaine also pointed out ‘Snow Dance’ Tree Lilac. Japanese Tree Lilacs are beautiful trees and this particular variety has exceptional heavy blooms, large, fragrant panicles of creamy white blooms and no untidy, brown seedheads.

Roni mentioned ‘Starlite’ Flowering Ornamental Crab.This outstanding

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red blooms before the leaves, which also opened a maroon colour and then turned dark green. In keeping with my four seasons theory for fall and winter interest it is covered in small red fruit. It is a stunning small tree. A couple of years ago, for one season only, I was able to get top grafted weeping Lilacs. I have one in my garden, the foliage is dense with small glossy leaves and when in bloom the Lilac flowers look like Wisteria as they are hanging upside down! It is incredibly beautiful. I am so grateful for the plant breeders, growers and suppliers of all these new and exciting shrubs and trees! and gorgeous cultivar has an upward and stately habit, is covered in white blooms in spring, fruit that is bright red, small and so adds fall and winter interest. Our summers are so short that any plant material that adds interest in all seasons is a win/win in my opinion! ‘Starlite’ reaches approximately 20’ in height and has a 15’ oval canopy. Roni mentioned ‘Navigator’ Ornamental Pear a nicely conical accent tree featuring a multitude of clusters of showy white flowers with pink anthers along the branches in mid spring before the leaves. The glossy dark green heart shaped leaves turn an outstanding red in the fall.

I am really hoping for some new types of top grafted dwarf trees in both standard and weeping form. Last year we were able to get ‘Royal Gem’ an ornamental crab that is covered in pinkish/

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

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36 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS APR - MAY 2015

SPRINGINSPIRATION

Creating Beauty & Colour in Small Areas: URBAN GARDENING

by JACKIE SWARTZ photos courtesy EPOCRETE

the smaller your yard, the more vital the landscape design becomes. A small garden can be more or less absorbed at a glance. Knowing this demonstrates that smaller yards can easily display a lack of care. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to the tiniest details when designing. I affectionately call this “mouse medicine” as it describes the concept beautifully. Keep in mind not to over stuff your garden knowing the limitations due to the available space.

Small spaces teach us to be efficient and hone our eye to seeing the various possibilities within a smaller area. Remember beauty comes in small packets.

The attractiveness of a small yard is found in its simplicity. Remember the adage of simplicity being the hardest to obtain as this means culling until the space boasts a few of your favorite things.

A GOOD RULE OF THUMB IS THAT

Often I begin my yard dream project by creating a check list. List your favourite things and choose the essentials first. For example: tool shed, arbor, privacy screen, pergola, patio, fire pit, sundial, bird bath, statue, herb garden, water feature, and hammock and so on. Be sure to include personalized areas such as a children’s play area, dog run, compost bin, along with your flower and vegetable garden. A good design ensures the inclusion of the latter.

Design styles are available through research and by scouting out local resources.

And of course, for the brave of heart, designing your own space usually is the most rewarding. There are a myriad of ideas and possibilities to be discovered. By exploring you will be inspired to create maximum usage of your small area. The following list is a good starter kit in feeding your gardening imagination while honouring the diversity of those creating with the canvas of the earth: • • • • • • •

Japanese (secluded, foliage interest, textures, stones, meditating), English (full, floral, flowing, arbors, stone walls), Roman (formal, pillars, statues, hard surfaces, containers), Ranch (lots of lawn, roses along porch, fence), Traditional (foundation planting of evergreens, shade tree, geometric), Eclectic (out of the ordinary items, diagonal shapes), Natural (curving lines, flowers & foliage balanced and blended).

After selecting your garden styles and features, allow some contemplative time. Spending time to mull the elements over ensures attaining optimum beauty in your available space. One may be tempted to simply fill the space up APR - MAY 2015 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 37

with softscape (plant material), yet keep in mind that the underlying structure must be addressed first. The primary question is knowing the main usage of your limited space. Addressing the vital components such as the hardscape (patio, walkway, fire pit area, and play area) will enable you to be successful in customizing your garden plans.

There are a variety of materials available to explore when you are trying to decide on your hardscape features. This calls you to think about what material would prove most fruitful to use. Some choices will be manufactured stone (Pisa stone, cobble stone), natural stone (iron stone, rundle stone, sand stone, granite, limestone), poured concrete (stamped or broom finish), or crushed stone (tan stone, 40 mm rundle, river stone, rainbow rock). If you are looking for that old-world look, I would recommend using tumbled Roman Pisa stone from Expocrete. It comes in a wide-range of colours and shapes. Expocrete products are a Canadian made product and withstand our freeze-thaw temperatures here in Calgary.

Your yard may have sunny or shady areas or maybe both. This will narrow your plant material decisions. Engaging in preparatory work and research enables you to choose plants that harmonize in the growing condition of our locale. To facilitate the best growing conditions, I suggest adding amendments such as compost.

Also include perusing our indigenous plants as well. Keep in mind that plants come in a variety of size, shapes and colours to satiate all tastes.

Awareness of the fact that our urban yards tend to be smaller presents another element worthy of our attention. Living in the city and knowing our space is smaller equates to having less privacy. The answer is found in designing and incorporating a personalized privacy screen. Privacy screens can become a living wall. A good example would be planting vines or including tall Swedish aspen trees. Another breach of our privacy is living beside a two-storey house. Here our overhead privacy is compromised. Including an overhead screen, such as a pergola, arbor or gazebo is a wonderful solution and adds beauty too.

Small gardens can still have full impact on the senses. Creating the right atmosphere for your small garden depends on stimulating the senses: smell, sight, sound, taste, and touch. Lilacs and mock orange shrubs create pleasant smells and variegated plants create visual enjoyment. A water fountain or gently cascading rock waterfall can drown out undesired noises. Planting and harvesting fresh herbs can add zest and enjoyment when cooking. Including a variety of plant species creates interesting textures and makes your garden interactive. Together the combination becomes desirable to the senses. The outcome is beautiful to others as well.

If you are like me, you will want to include some romance in your garden.

Romance unfolds by designing an intimate space that includes items such as a courtyard, garden swing on your patio, or merely adding an arbor (archway) planted with vines or climbing roses at the base. Creating intimacy in your yard

tends to add a feeling of spaciousness.

Hanging a mirror on a fence behind a feature perennial bed gives the illusion of more space.

Including a personalized item or artifact excites the eye and becomes a focal point. For example, you can place a statue in the middle of a perennial garden or use a rose obelisk as a focal point. A focal point can be a feature plant such as a ‘Weeping caragana’ or a ‘False sunflower’ perennial flower. Other ideas could be a terra cotta container incorporated in the garden or a decorative bird bath strategically placed in the garden.

There is always the issue of too much fencing being exposed. A good way to disguise the unwanted part of your fence is to plant larger shrubs along the exposed area. Also, tall perennials will hide the fencing as well. Also, using vines and trees like Swedish aspens will cover unwanted exposed fencing.

Often a small garden project can be overwhelming, especially if you have never gardened before; however, designing your garden in stages allows you to breathe through each area of your garden project. Staying focused and relaxed ensures the joyfulness in bringing your garden plans to fruition. Going in stages keeps the project fun and manageable. For visions that are beyond your expertise connecting with a professional landscape designer ensures the completion of your dreams. Remember as stated earlier delightful things really do come in small packages. “After all it’s a small, small world” as Disney stated.

Happy Gardening!

JACKIE SWARTZ Jackie Swartz has a Bachelor of Applied Horticulture Degree (BaHT) from Olds College. She specializes in the horticultural planning, design, and ongoing life of urban and residential environments.

You can contact Jackie at: Website: www.wildstrawberrygardens.com Email:wildstrawberrygardens@gmail.com Office: 403-472-5082

TIPSANDTRICKS

Exterior Renovations

ENHANCE YOUR HOME COURTESY OF THE CANADIAN HOME BUILDERS’ ASSOCIATION IF YOU LIVE IN AN OLDER HOUSE,

A NEW LOOK

chances are that you will want to update or replace cladding, doors and windows at some point. Exterior renovations can give new life to a “tired” home and reduce maintenance significantly. At the same time, you can improve the energy efficiency, security and general comfort of your home.

When you are ready to begin planning, talk with a professional renovator to get ideas and a sense of cost. Make sure it’s someone who is experienced in exterior renovations and can offer you both sound technical advice and design assistance.

Maybe you simply want to update the appearance of your home, or maybe you want to transform it with a different look - now is the time to explore the possibilities. To begin with, there is a great selection of quality exterior cladding products - bricks, stucco and siding in many different materials, colours, sizes and styles. Renovators sometimes mix and match materials to create attractive, custom-tailored exteriors.

Replacing your doors and windows can make a big difference to the overall appearance and brightness of your home. With the huge selection of windows and doors on the market, your best bet is to consult with your renovator: Which style, materials, sizes and types would work best? Can you add more windows? Should you increase the number of windows that open and close for a better airflow? Can you add a sidelight to your main doorway for a more welcoming entrance to your home?

APR - MAY 2015 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 39

The possibilities for upgrading or adding a porch, a deck, overhangs and decorative finishing touches are almost endless. Looking at other people’s homes and browsing through magazines is a good first step. Also, ask your renovator for suggestions. Experienced renovators can often see possibilities that you might overlook.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Replacing your siding presents the perfect opportunity to upgrade the insulation from the outside. Based on the existing structure, your renovator can suggest a number of different approaches, such as adding a layer of rigid or semi-rigid insulation or installing an air barrier to reduce leakage. An experienced renovator will also know what to avoid - for instance , trapping moisture between two vapor barriers.

Your renovator can advise you on the right new energy-efficient windows to help capture the sun’s heat on the north side, block out sunlight and excess heat gain on the south side and to cut glare.

Also check the Office of Energy Efficiency at Natural Resources Canada for helpful information on upgrading the energy efficiency of your home.

THE POSSIBILITIES FOR UPGRADING OR ADDING A PORCH, A DECK, OVERHANGS AND DECORATIVE FINISHING TOUCHES ARE ALMOST ENDLESS. LOOKING AT OTHER PEOPLE’S HOMES AND BROWSING THROUGH MAGAZINES IS A GOOD FIRST STEP. 40 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS APR - MAY 2015

SECURITY AND SAFETY

With today’s new products, it’s easier to secure your home. Exterior doors can be fitted with dead bolts and strong locks, and windows can be installed with solid locking mechanisms. Consult with your renovator about other measures you can take, such as bars on basement windows. If you have been thinking about a security system, this may be the most cost-effective time to install one.

Good lighting is also important to safety. Install lights wherever visibility is an issue - over entrances, along walkways and next to sheds or garages. A programmable timer or lights that are photo- or motion-sensitive offer additional security when you are away from home.

LOWER MAINTENANCE

One of the great benefits of today’s exterior building products and materials is low maintenance - no more summers spent scraping, sanding and painting siding, trim and windows. As you select the products and materials for your renovation, consult with your renovator to make sure you understand the maintenance requirements.

THE LITTLE DETAILS

An exterior renovation is also your chance to add the touches that make life just a little easier - moving exterior taps to the right location, replacing taps with frost-free hose-bits. and installing or relocating outside plugs. Take advantage of your renovator’s experience and ask for more suggestions.

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41

TIPSANDTRICKS

What is a

professional renovator HIRING A PROFESSIONAL RENOVATOR is your best assurance that you will get the results you want

and the best value for your money.

A professional renovator is a general contractor, sometimes referred to as a renovation contractor, who can put your whole project together. The renovator will assume complete responsibility for the work contracted and give you a warranty once it’s completed. ›› A professional renovator has an extensive business network of suppliers, trades, installers and experts that they draw on as required for your project. ›› A professional renovator understands the technical aspects of construction in detail and knows how houses work. They can assess your project and explain what is involved, as well as identify potential problems and provide solutions. ›› If your project requires design services, your contractor can advise you on the most suitable approach and recommend a design professional. Design-build renovators offer both design and construction services, and you may hire them for one service or both. Alternatively, professional renovators are also experienced in working with architect’s drawings.

42 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS APR - MAY 2015

›› A professional renovator has extensive knowledge and experience with the latest products and materials. They keep up-to-date and can help you make the selections that will work best for your project and budget. ›› Professional renovators are familiar with the regulations and bylaws in your community and how the system works.

When needed, they can look after permits and inspections on your behalf. ›› Professional renovators can work with you on the financial aspects of your renovation. They know what things cost and can help you set a realistic budget to achieve your renovation goals. And they know how to stretch your budget without compromising quality. ›› A professional renovator always uses a written contract that clearly describes the work, materials to be used, timelines, price, responsibilities of both parties and other details as appropriate.

›› A professional renovator knows how to organize and manage a project – scheduling workers, trades and delivery of materials; keeping track of expenses; maintaining a clean and safe work site; and minimizing the inconvenience to you. When necessary, they know how to deal with the unexpected and the surprises that sometimes occur in renovation. ›› Most importantly, professional renovators put their customers first. They listen carefully so they know what you want. They provide you with names of previous customers so you can check out the company’s track record yourself.

They explain the process so you know what to expect, and once the work begins they give you regular updates so you always know what’s going on. They also encourage you to voice any questions or concerns you may have as the work progresses. In brief, they work for you and with you to make sure that you are satisfied and happy with the final results.

Courtesy of the Canadian Home Builders’ Association

RESPECT

I

RELATIONSHIPS

I

RESULTS

RENOVATING SMALL KITCHENS CAN CREATE LARGE RESULTS... IT’S POSSIBLE! WITH YEARS OF EXPERIENCE WE’VE HONED OUR SKILLS ON HUNDREDS OF RENOVATIONS TO CREATE CLEVER DESIGNS FROM THE MOST COMMON SPACES, TAILOR MADE TO OUR CLIENT’S LIFESTYLE. YOU COULD SAY THAT IT HAS BECOME OUR PASSION.

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APR - MAY 2015 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 43

FEATURE

Staging for a COMPETETIVE MARKET

by LAURA LE

by LAURA LE

44 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS APR - MAY 2015

THE RESIDENTIAL HOUSING MARKET IS PRESENTLY BENEFITING THE BUYERS and sellers should be doing as

much as possible to entice potential buyers. There is a lot of competition right now in all price points, whether it is a condo or a million dollar property, so preparing the largest investment most of us make should not be taken lightly. The property needs to be presented as beautifully as possible so the photographs distinguish yours from the competition.

CHOOSING A PAINT COLOUR MAKES A MASSIVE DIFFERENCE AND THERE ARE MANY VARIABLES; The paint colours in a house are very important and are something the seller can often change themselves. There are many professionals that can be called upon to assist with the selection of a perfect paint colour to complement all the other finishes in the home. These same design professionals should be able to refer a contractor to supply a quote if painting is not going to happen by the seller. Choosing a paint colour makes a massive difference and there are many variables; a lovely

gold paint colour may work in a family home in Langdon but may not work in a four floor walk-up in Mission. A more contemporary gray would better suit the young person that is going to purchase this fantastic space.

Area carpets are fabulous and very necessary to delineate a space but I find they are often too small. An 8’ x 10’ carpet is almost always the perfect size.

Costco sells a contemporary shag area carpet that is under $300 and Home Sense is a great place for an area rug as well. They warm up a space and help with the echo that happens when there are a lot of hard surfaces in the home.

Next is lighting. This is another task that can be completed by the home owner. Make sure all the light fixtures are appropriate for the property and the demographic that will be looking at the listing. If the fixtures need to change it can be an inexpensive fix that makes a

APR - MAY 2015 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 45

huge difference. Lighting stores carry a wide selection as well as price and they are extremely helpful when a seller goes in with a style choice and a budget. Once the fixtures are okay please ensure all light bulbs are working and are the same. Some bulbs give off a blue light, some yellow and some are white; in each room have all bulbs the same. It is also important to have ambient lighting, such as table and floor lamps, even if the room has overhead lighting because it adds a layer of warmth and photographs beautifully.

The addition of toss cushions and cozy throws can make sofas, chairs and even beds look inviting and can make a slightly worn piece of furniture look much better. Sometimes it is just the splash of colour that is needed to freshen up a space.

46 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS APR - MAY 2015

Lastly is window coverings. Recently I was in a property in which a young, male seller had chosen shower curtains for the nook where he had 3 large windows. His logic was undeniable in justifying his selection. He loved the fabric with the trees on the back window and the 2 side windows had white ones to compliment the tree-patterned curtain. Also, the length (or lack there-of) allowed for easy cleaning. We changed his practical choices out to 6 drapery panels purchased from IKEA for a total of $30 and the transformation was amazing. Sometimes it is not a bad idea to remove drapery that is too patterned or colourful and if the seller is painting or has the existing wall colour to completely remove even the rod. This works especially well if there are blinds already there for privacy.

These are just a few easy changes that will assist a seller in presenting their property for the current, highly competitive real estate market.

LET’S SELL YOUR HOUSE! If you’re having trouble preparing your home for sale, call me… I can help you to make your home more appealing to potential buyers… I work with professional trustworthy contractors…

I will advise you on what needs to be done in order to get the highest price

FREE HOME EVALUATION! Call Anna Sindrewicz at 403-616-1373 ANNA SINDREWICZ Real Estate Associate Residential/Investment Properties

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

asindrewicz@cirrealty.ca

Be

rossinis.com

Corner of Blackfoot Trail & 46th Avenue SE, Calgary

YOUnique

MAKE IT YOURS!

(403) 259-4448 APR - MAY 2015 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 47

EXPERTADVICE

LAUNDRY IN

style

Create a functional and fashionable laundry room

by JO ALCORN

Make room for countertop space. Don’t overlook counter space!

Make sure you have enough room to deposit dirty clothes, apply stain treatments and fold clothes. Choose a countertop that will hide dust and dirt; I used one from Belanger Laminates, a Canadian company who creates laminates that mimic raw stone.

Multiple flecks of colour help hide messes and add an industrial element to the room. Laminate has come a long way in recent years; it’s stunning how you can now get it to look almost identical to stone, but at a fraction of the price.

A well-oiled machine needs a good engine. What is a laundry room without gorgeous appliances? For this makeover I chose Whirlpool Duet Steam Front Loaders in Chrome Shadow. Not only are they stunning, they are also a homeowner’s dream.

They keep clothes looking newer longer and have amazing features that make caring for clothing simple. The washing machine does all the work for you, determining your load size, adding the right amount of detergent, even steaming and removing wrinkles.

Laundry sinks can be stylish! Don’t forget about the sink, which is an integral part of any working laundry room. I wanted to find a faucet that was both stylish and that makes life easier. I chose a Delta faucet which you can simply touch anywhere on the spout or handle with your hand, wrist or forearm to start and stop the flow of water. If your space doubles as a mudroom, this sleek faucet is not only visually appealing, it is also a great solution to easily clean up muddy hands after gardening or washing up when arriving home from school, work, sports or after taking the dog for a walk.

THE LAUNDRY ROOM GETS A LOT OF WEAR AND TEAR,

but is often the most neglected room, design-wise! For my latest project, I wanted to showcase the laundry room, and how it can be designed as a functional and fashionable space.

Clean, simple colours. I chose washable gloss white cabinets and

applied a coat of CIL Wexford Fog on the walls. The simple colour palette created a calming effect in a usually chaotic room.

I added in greys and stainless steel touches throughout the room for a more unisex overture. The laundry room isn’t just the woman’s domain!

Who doesn’t need more storage? I turned to Cutler Modern Living,

a company that makes cabinetry in Canada and sells through Lowe’s stores (cutlermodernliving.com). The upper cabinets are used to store and hide away detergents, extra towels and cleaning supplies, keeping the space organized.

48 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS APR - MAY 2015

The little touches. The laundry room doesn’t have to be a room you dread heading into. I wanted to make it a place that was functional and stylish and with a few touches from Bouclair Home the look was achieved – I added a great piece of artwork, a bowl for keys, and a multitude of great baskets to keep the room in tip top shape. Everything is out of sight and organized but very easy to access.

Make sure you give your laundry room some love to create a room that works for your entire family. Who knows, you just might enjoy doing the laundry.

JO ALCORN Jo Alcorn is a celebrity designer specializing in small spaces and design solutions for all budgets. She is the interior expert on HGTV’s new show Critical Listing, and shares her expertise regularly on TV and through her monthly column at the Toronto Sun. Visit whitewashco.ca

Build with Integrity, Live with Pride COMPLIMENTARY IN-HOME CONSULTATION • Complete Home Renovations • Century Homes • Additions • Basement development • Kitchens • Bathrooms

denton@mountviewrenovations.com www.mountviewrenovations.com 403.277.2760

View our website or showroom and be inspired with the product options we provide.

2777 Hopewell Place N.E. Calgary Phone (403) 250-1020 Toll Free 1-800-382-8502 Calgary Region Canadian Home Builders’ Association

Builder, Marco Antonio Homes Ltd.

www.prestigerailings.com APR - MAY 2015 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 49

TIPSANDTRICKS

Decoding the code

by MICHAEL NYIKES

Q A

An avid Decoding the Code reader recently emailed me and asked “Where do Canada’s building codes originate from?”

It starts with the Canadian Commission on Building and Fire Codes (CCBFC) which is an independent committee of volunteers established by the National Research Council of Canada (NRC) to provide direction and oversight on the development of the National Building Code.

The CCBFC oversees the work of several standing committees, special purpose committees, and task groups involving more than 400 volunteers chosen from across the country for their individual expertise as subject matter experts in a number of different code disciplines. Its nine standing committees are responsible for developing and improving the technical content of the codes and related documents, such as user’s guides, thereby helping to protect the health and safety of Canadians.

The CCBFC also works in partnership with provincial and territorial regulatory authorities to promote uniform adoption and understanding of the national codes by responding to their needs and priorities, and facilitating the resolution of issues. In Alberta’s case this authority would be the Alberta Municipal Affairs division of the provincial government.

IN MOST CASES, APPROXIMATELY 95% OF THE CONTENT OF THE NATIONAL BUILDING CODE MAKES IT INTO THE PROVINCIAL BUILDING CODE, WITH A FEW CHANGES DUE TO UNIQUE PROVINCIAL SCENARIOS The process for determining if a code change is accepted by the provincial or territorial regulatory authority depends on the situation and can vary considerably. The provinces and territories are consulted and provide input on proposed code changes. If a large majority of jurisdictions support a proposed change, it normally proceeds through all considerations. If, from an administrative or policy point of view, some jurisdictions are concerned about a proposal that has received support through public review, the CCBFC will try to further address the concerns through an ad hoc committee. The committee will attempt to find a solution that may procure a greater consensus.

50 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS APR - MAY 2015

Consensus, however, does not imply unanimity. If a strong consensus is not possible, the proposal will normally be withdrawn by CCBFC so as not to create disharmony. If the concern relates to a technical issue, the proposal has a good chance of surviving but may be revised to address the concern.

Canada’s constitution gives the provinces and territories jurisdiction over construction, therefore it is at their discretion to adopt the National Building Code as a genesis document and develop their own provincial building code from it. In most cases, approximately 95% of the content of the National Building Code makes it into the provincial building code, with a few changes due to unique provincial scenarios such as differing wind loads, seismic activity, precipitation amounts, etc. This happens in five year cycles whereas an updated National Building Code is released and the provinces can then choose to create an updated provincial building code from it.

Provincial and territorial authorities having jurisdiction are then responsible for enforcing their own codes and regulations; for providing interpretation of these codes and regulations; for providing training and education, and for establishing roles and responsibilities of trades people and professionals.

Interestingly, a few Canadian cities (such as Vancouver) have a special relationship with their provincial authority so that they can create their own municipal building code that in effect overrides the provincial and national building codes. They are known as a “Charter City”.

In this type of arrangement the municipality is given jurisdictional power in decision-making and the discretionary abilities over how and what building codes are required and enforced specifically within their municipality. It is questionable whether the Charter City concept is better or worse than building code development and enforcement through the provincial authority, but it certainly does introduce added cost, liability and procedural complexities into the equation for the municipality and the residents that live within it.

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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Show room address: 3517 64th Ave. S.E., Calgary APR - MAY 2015 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 51

FEATURE

Spring INTO ACTION

by ADENE LUCAS photos by SEAN ALZETTA

52

THE COLDEST MONTHS ARE NOW BEHIND US, and

spring is in the air. It’s time to get your home ready and spring cleaning is just the beginning! Once you have packed up unused, neglected or broken items it’s time to take a critical look at your home and reflect on how it can be improved. Perhaps your home is going on the market, or possibly you are just tired of the same old décor and want to bring some life back into your home. Regardless of the motivation, a season change is a great time to take stock and make some changes.

53

IT MAY BE TOO OVERWHELMING TO TACKLE THE ENTIRE HOUSE AND ONCE ONE ROOM IS FINISHED YOU WILL BE INSPIRED TO CONTINUE ON.

54 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS APR - MAY 2015

Begin by selecting just one room. It may be too overwhelming to tackle the entire house and once one room is finished you will be inspired to continue on.

Evaluate the room with a critical eye or by taking pictures of the space. Pictures have a way of showing us flaws that we generally tune out. Decide what you like in the room and what just doesn’t work or does not fit into the scheme.

Does the furniture placement work, are the accessories impactful, or are there too many trinkets that get lost in the room? These are just a few questions to ask yourself when you are freshening up a room. It is also a good idea to basically analyze how you feel when you look at the image or walk into that space. Is the room inviting, warm, and relaxing or do you feel anxious, down and ready to leave? Clients often share the complaint of not liking or not using a particular room in their home. Generally, it is either sparsely furnished or full of too many pieces and lacks any personality. Be cognizant of those issues if you are unable to pin point what is not working.

Seasonal decorating does not mean changing everything, and starting anew.

Simply stow away winter items and introduce spring and summer to your home.

If the basics of a room like wall colour, sofa colour and flooring are neutral, then the choice of an additional accent colour is simple. Start by bringing in colour

APR - MAY 2015 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 55

that enhances the feel of the outdoors by introducing those tones indoors. Think of light blues, muted greens, soft yellow, even white can add a nice touch. Use the colours as an accent just like you would with a heavier colour like cranberry in the winter, or burnt orange in the fall.

THE FINAL TOUCH IS TO HAVE SPRING LIKE ACCESSORIES In cooler climates we like to be surrounded by texture, a thick warm rug, down filled pillows, and drapery in heavy fabrics like velour that can absorb the drafts. Once the temperatures begin to climb and daylight increases, it’s nice to shed those layers and textures and incorporate something lighter and softer. Replace the thick area rug for a softer, thinner more colourful version. It doesn’t need to be expensive to have impact; try looking at stores like Home Sense, Home Depot, Ikea or any flooring store for a new area rug. Pull colours from the rug and change out the accent pillows to a variety of cotton toss cushions. Casual, light weight prints work best for the warmer months.

Depending on budget constraints, you may consider adding a quirky occasional chair. Stores such a Pier 1 or Urban Barn often bring in a few inexpensive chairs in current fabrics and colours that can easily fit into most decors. The final touch is to have spring like accessories, a coffee table book on wineries for example or pictures that reflect the season.

Now that the main areas have been refreshed its time to look at the master bedroom, also known as the most neglected room of the house! Start by changing up the bedding. Rather then the warmth of a down filled duvet, try a coverlet. Also, invest in some quality sheets, no more flannel or fleece, try bamboo sheets which are super soft and wick away moisture. The same colour scheme that has been incorporated into other areas of the home can also work well in the bedroom. Lighten up in fabric and colour to create a softer more spring like look. If colour is a stumbling block then try using all white. That is a fail safe way to create a fresh look. White is timeless, fresh and clean and creates a sense of peace within a home.

Also lighten the lamp shades. No more chocolate brown or deep colours, try a lighter shade and it will also update the look of an older lamp. Consider scent as part of the décor as it does add to ambience. Using an oil reed diffuser in a scent like lavender or vanilla can add to the feel of a room.

Another simple but nice touch is fresh flowers, a small vase of tulips reminds us that spring is here. You can also take a trip to your local garden centre and buy a potted arrangement with blooming flowers.

56 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS APR - MAY 2015

Remember to have a look at the outside of your home and see if that needs an update. Add a spring wreath to the front door, change the welcome mat and update and any urns or garden containers with curly willow or artificial greens. Most large craft stores have a variety of natural looking foliage that can be easily updated with the seasons. There are also many local floral shops that will create lovely containers with long lasting products. Lastly, have the windows cleaned, it will make a big difference in how a room feels and is an instant room brightener. If this all seems too much to do, grab a white bowl, add a few lemons and place it on the counter… spring is here, enjoy!

ADENE LUCAS www.accentondesigninc.ca 403.651.7491

Don’t Waste Your Space!

Get a custom designed wall bed for your home today!

Innovative Bed Systems 403-945-1882 3 99 East Lake Cres. Airdrie www.innovativebedsystems.com

TIPSANDTRICKS

urban trends

Our milder winter has made it easier to dream of spring and all the future plans for warm weather renovations. Here are some ideas for you to consider for your new or existing home.

ALL PRODUCTS ARE AVAILABLE AT FLAME & COMFORT, 318 LOGAN AVENUE, WINNIPEG

SIMPLIFIRE 38 AND SIMPLIFIRE 94 The SimpliFire line of wall mount electric fireplaces just keeps getting better and better! These modern, easy to install fireplaces with multi-colored accent lighting are now available in four sizes: 38”, 58”, 70” and 94”. For a unique option, choose a table top stand for the 38” model and your fireplace is now portable and can be enjoyed in various rooms in your home.

SOLAS TWENTY6 FI INSERT Introducing this new contemporary direct vent gas insert from Solas Contemporary Fire: the Twenty 6 FI. Modernize your existing wood burning fireplace with this extremely stylish and highly efficient appliance, designed to be compact but to also maximize the view of the fire. The various finishes available to choose from are Stainless Steel, Black or Steel Grey.

PAGELABEL SMALLERLABEL 6000/8000 MODERN If your home calls for a more modern and sophisticated design, these Heat-&-Glo fireplaces will surely appeal to you. Envision either the 6000 or 8000 Modern fireplace, each with a 36” and 42” viewing area respectively, as a focal point in your home. Their classic shape offers an alternative to the widely available linear fireplaces.

8000C SERIES Enjoy the classic ambiance showcased by the 8000 series of gas fireplaces from Heat-&-Glo. Featuring full lush flames, detailed log configurations, warm accent lighting and 42” wide viewing areas, these fireplaces are the epitome of luxury and grandeur.

PALOMA GAS STOVE This 41” high vertical gas stove showcases a tall, slender flame grounded by a modern rock fire bed. The Paloma gas stove has a sleek, curved glass front available in Bronze or Grey glass. The new black body unit is an exciting introduction to the Paloma line up.

58

TIPSANDTRICKS

Your Wood Flooring:

The right environment can keep your floors like new

by SHELL BUSEY

59

THE WINTER SEASON CAN BE A CHALLENGE FOR NEWLY INSTALLED FLOORS or even hardwood flooring installed

decades ago. Products manufactured of natural wood fibre or composite materials have one thing in common, expansion and/or contraction (shrinking or bulging). This may rear its head as a squeaky or ugly looking floor.

Squeaky floors are caused in most cases by shrinking or bulging taking place. With real wood floors the fastening nails or brad staples are being forced out of the substrate that it is fastened to allowing the wood to squeak as the floor moves up and down. Most laminate floors (floating floors) as well as engineered hardwood floors move with seasonal weather changes and moisture levels inside the home. Bulging seems to be the biggest concern with floating floors due to expansion, as the expansion causes the floors to tighten up against walls and cause the floor to bulge up. It is very important to allow for this when originally installing the flooring.

The amount of moisture in the air of the home is the cause for both the shrinking and bulging concerns. How do you correct this? The answer is to maintain the relative humidity in your home during the colder months.

Shell Busey’s House Smart Club

Benefits: »Ask your home improvements questions for a personal email response from Shell »New product reports

If you are not already a member now is the time to do so as it is free until further notice.

It’s just that easy!

»New building code information »What’s new for (DIY) Do It Yourself »Show updates

™

Log onto

AskShell.com

and follow the prompts.

60 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS APR - MAY 2015

»Find out when Shell will be in your area »View Shell’s informational and helpful Videos

•

HERE ARE SOME POINTS YOU SHOULD BE AWARE OF:

Outside Air Temperature (°C) -30 or below -30 to -24 -24 to -18 -18 to – 12 -12 to 0 • • • • •

•

Maximum Inside Humidity (at 20°C) 15 per cent 20 per cent 25 per cent 35 per cent 40 per cent

With new floors all boxes should be open inside the home for at least 48 hours prior to installation.

It does not matter if the flooring runs the same way as the floor joists.

If there is a crawlspace under the main sub floor a moisture protection vapour barrier is required over the area that the new floor is being installed.

If the crawlspace has a dirt floor it must be covered with plastic and sealed.

If you have a new high-efficiency condensing furnace always keep the continuous fan running 24/7 to keep the air moving and air quality and temperature consistent.

Keep in mind the more upgrades to your home such as new windows, doors, draft proofing, basement finishing and/or crawlspace insulation the more exhaust ventilation your home will require in order to maintain a controlled relative humidity level.

Before any wood, laminate or composite flooring is installed, it is important to check the moisture levels in areas under the floors and between the floors to insure that your new floor is not going to be susceptible to moisture or lack thereof.

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

621 - Manitou Road SE

Ph: 403.852.2524 Hours: Monday - Friday - 8-5

®

Calgary Region

Saturday 9-4

Canadian Home Builders’ Association

brad@lakeviewfloors.ca I www.lakeviewfloors.ca • Hardwood • Tile • Cork • Bamboo • Carpet • Laminate • LVT • Congoleum • Dura Ceramic APR - MAY 2015 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 61

®

ADVERTISERS DIRECTORY Albi Renova___________________________________________ 3 Anna Sindrewicz (Cir Realty)___________________________ 47 Artisan Kitichens & Renovations_______________________ 43 Blanco Canada Inc.___________________________________ 19

Mountview Renovations_______________________________ 49 Prestige Rialings & Stairs______________________________ 49

Q

Rossini Furniture_____________________________________ 47

Cardel Renos_________________________________________ 29 Dowden Floors & Interiors_____________________________ 27 Enhance Your Home____________________________________11

Rusco Industries______________________________________ 41 Sheila’s window Toppers & More Ltd.___________________ 55

Escape Inc.___________________________________________ 35 Four Seasons Sunrooms______________________________ 36 Hard Rock Developmemts_____________________________ 30

ShelfGenie___________________________________________ 25 Shell Busey__________________________________________ 60

Innovative Bed systems_______________________________ 56 Interiors With Elegance_________________________________ 5 Kayu Canada Inc._____________________________________ 33

SIS Supply Install Services____________________________ 51 Spindle, Stairs & Railing Ltd. ________________________ OBC

Kon-Strux Developments______________________________ 27 Kurmak Builders______________________________________ 17 Lakeview Floors______________________________________ 61 Litwiller Renovations & Custom Homes_________________ 9 Mi-Box Moving & Mobile Storage _____________________ 24

On our radar: BLACK AND WHITE

stripes

Trademark Renovations______________________________ IBC Ultimate Renovations________________________________ 1FC Wallace Fleming Design & Renovate____________________ 7

4

Bring a touch of Parisian-chic to your life with these black and white striped accessories!

5 1

R HD&

1. White Zinnia Striped Pillow. $59. CHAPTERS.INDIGO.CA 2. Striped Pitcher in White and Black. $30. CHAPTERS.INDIGO.CA

2

3. Eivor Throw. $35. IKEA.CA

3

4. Design Love Planner. $55.

THEDESIGNLOVECO.COM 5. Tuvbräcka Duvet Cover and Pillowcases.$35. IKEA.CA

62

Trad

Make no compromises…

Quality, Transparency, Value

A Big Thank You!

Thank you Calgary for selecting Trademark Renovations again this year as the recipient of the 2015 Consumer Choice Award!

We are also happy to announce that we’ve been voted this years Best of HomeStars as well as Best of Houzz for 2015

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.

Trademark_HomeDecor_03.2015.indd 1

15-03-10 11:21 AM

Thinking of changing this...

into this?

But you’re not sure what it’ll cost?

introducing the

24HR

QUOTATION by

Fast. Easy. Free.

1) Go to greatstairs.com/quote

2) Upload a few photos of the renovation area

3) Include some brief details and rough measurements

Inside 24 hours, you’ll have your quote.

6423 30th Street SE (403) 294.0555 1.866.936.0555

greatstairs.com