Calgary Home Decor & Renovations - JUN/JUL 2014

JUN - JUL 2014 VOLUME 12 ISSUE 3

CALGARY EDITION

FOR ENJOYING YOUR OUTDOOR SPACE!

CATCHING UP WITH DESIGN DARLING SARAH RICHARDSON DECOR TRENDS TO INSPIRE A NEW LOOK PLUS

CUSTOM RENOVATION SPECIAL INSERT

2013 RENOVATOR CHBA-CALGARY REGION

OF THE YEAR

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

contents

cover story

10

GREAT IDEAS for enjoying your outdoor space

VOLUME 12 ISSUE 3

JUNE - JULY 2014

65

52

features

tips & tricks

28 Summertime

18 Traditional or trendy

condo living

BY MICKEY FOULDS

33 Home-building industry

BY SARA DUCK

20 Deck projects

BY VANESSA GASH

celebrates its finest with SAM Awards

26 Decoding the code

BY HEATHER RYAN

62 Don’t just spring clean,

36 Renovation offers

opportunity for homeowners

BY BRYAN TUCKEY

46 Take back the garage!

BY ADENE LUCAS

BY MICHAEL NYIKES

get organized

BY HELLEN BUTTIGIEG

67 Keep your stucco looking its best

BY SHELL BUSEY

52 Design 101 with Sarah Richardson

BY SALINA YARA HALABI

BY HEATHER RYAN

56 Setting the outdoor stage

BY LAURA LE

65 House of Bryan’s

Bryan and Sarah Baeumler

in every issue 06 Editor’s notebook

BY DIANE DUFLOT

59 In between seasons, in between spaces

BY YANIC SIMARD

business profiles 16 MI-BOX makes your move,

reno or home staging easier

BY HEATHER RYAN

Cover Photo courtesy of Jacuzzi Calgary

outdoor living feature 38 Beautifying interior and

exterior concrete surfaces

BY BAILEY KOMARIC

40 Taking a Self-Proclaimed “time-out’’ for Beauty and Peace

BY JACKIE SWARTZ

42 Creating outdoor living spaces, just for you!

BY BONNY DANN

Renovations that Inspire

EDITOR’SNOTEBOOK

JUNE/JULY 2014 VOLUME 12 ISSUE 03 VICE PRESIDENT, WALL2WALL MEDIA

Jacqueline Hill EDITOR-IN-CHIEF / DIRECTOR OF CONTENT

Susan Legge DIRECTOR OF SALES, NATIONAL

Josh Heppner SENIOR SALES MANAGER, WESTERN CANADA

Edwin Rizarri ART DIRECTOR

Tammy Leung MANAGING EDITOR

Sara Duck

MEDIA CONSULTANT

Are you a reno survivor?

Anita van Breevoort, 403.461.5518 Anita.VanBreevoort@wall2wallmedia.com

Anyone who has survived a reno knows how stressful it can be. Even with a fabulous general contractor guiding the process, there are things that inevitably keep you up at night: Did I pick the right flooring? Are we spending too much on kitchen cabinets? How much longer will this take?

The list goes on and on. This is why it is especially remarkable to see superstar renovator Bryan Baeumler, along with his wife Sarah and their four young kids, openly expose the everyday challenges of living through a reno in their third season of House of Bryan. We get real with them on page 65, and find out about their new move to the country. Even if a reno brings stress, the end result can be a truly magical transformation for your home and family life, on that note, we are thrilled to bring you our Custom Renovations & Special Projects insert, we get up close and personal with some of Calgary’s most exceptional and unique homes.

Maybe you’re not planning a huge renovation but instead are thinking of updating your space for summer, we have great outdoor ideas to get you inspired starting on page 10. You also won’t want to miss designer Yanic Simard’s expert tips on bringing the outdoors inside – I especially love his idea of decorating with patio-inspired furniture in your home, a look that is just starting to surface. Speaking of emerging trends, design darling Sarah Richardson gives us a lesson in design on page 52. It’s a must-read!

After a long, cold winter, it’s finally time to celebrate the warm weather, and we hope this latest issue gets you motivated to start some new projects in and around your home.

As always, we would love to hear how you enjoyed the issue, so drop us an email.

Bala Gnanapandithan PRODUCTION CO-ORDINATOR/ GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Mohammad Haidarpour GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

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

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

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

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

HOME DÉCOR AND RENOVATIONS

Cheers,

SARA DUCK MANAGING EDITOR, WALL2WALL MEDIA sara.duck@wall2wallmedia.com Follow me on twitter: twitter.com/saraduckHDR

PRODUCTION MANAGER

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

6 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS JUN - JUL 2014

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

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COVERSTORY

GREAT IDEAS

for enjoying your

outdoor space

by HEATHER RYAN

10 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS JUN - JUL 2014

W

ITH THE WEATHER getting

warmer it’s a great time to start planning new ways to enjoy your outdoor space.

One of the best ways to extend the enjoyment of your back yard is a hot tub, says Darren Jordison, founder and GM of Jacuzzi Hot Tubs of Calgary.

“Jacuzzi Calgary has been around for 10 years representing the Jacuzzi® brand product and offering all 21 different models from the basic workhorse to the most technologically advanced,” Jordison says that offer features such as sound systems and UV sterilizers that reduce the amount of maintenance.

“Having a Jacuzzi® hot tub in your backyard is really great for your mental, social and physical well-being,” he says. “When you experience the benefits these products have to offer you’ll wonder why you didn’t get one sooner.”

The swirling hot water and massaging jets can make you feel

better easing your body of aches and pains and relieving stress – it’s a great place to relax after a stressful day.

“They also give you energy, and there is a great social aspect to it as well,” Jordison says, noting it provides fun for the whole family and it adds to the entertainment factor when hosting friends.

“I have seen a Jacuzzi® hot tub change people’s lives for the better; I’ve had several customers tell me they’ve had the best talks with their kids and got to know them better while sitting in the hot tub,” Jordison says.

“Having a hot tub definitely improves and extends the enjoyment of your outdoor space,” he says. “It’s a great investment because it’s like having a vacation in your backyard that you can enjoy all year round rather than getting away for two weeks here and there. How many things in the backyard can you enjoy all year?”

Another benefit to hot tubs is that you can add one regardless of your lot size – Jacuzzi® hot tubs range from two to three person up to eight to 10 person in size – and they can be installed at any time of the year.

“The largest growth segment of our business has been people with townhomes; they love that they can get a super high quality three to four person tub and even at the smaller size they don’t give up anything.”

Of course, there are other great ways to make the most out of your back yard space.

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12 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS JUN - JUL 2014

“Many people want to extend their space so they can enjoy the outdoor lifestyle more. They have a beautiful space indoors for entertaining and they want to extend that same look and feel outside,” says Jennifer Schramm, sales and marketing manager at Wicker Land Patio.

Schramm says many homeowners are creating a relaxing lifestyle outdoors by adding living room style all-weather furniture such as sofas, chairs, tables and sectionals to their decks and patios.

“Many people are also creating outdoor kitchens and something new from us this year is the addition of the outdoor barbecue island,” she says.

The islands are available with a stainless steel barbecue head, porcelain or natural stone countertops, side burners, under counter lighting and stucco or natural stone sides.

“These are totally customizable, come in multiple colours and you can even get LED lights that change colour,” Schramm notes. “You can choose whatever barbecue you want, with or without a rotisserie, side burners and even fridges. The options are endless!

“What people really like about these islands is they can pull up chairs to them so they don’t really need a table if they don’t have the space,” she says. “They also provide a great space for food preparation so they can do it all outdoors.”

Fire tables are also a great addition to the backyard design because they provide outdoor warmth especially on cool Calgary evenings and they look fantastic.

JUN - JUL 2014 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 13

Park Lane Sectional Available at Wicker Land Patio

A lot of our customers are substituting the coffee table or the dining table with a fire table, but new this year is the counter fire table that is bar height and you can stand or sit around it so it’s great when entertaining,” Schramm says.

The fire tables run on propane or natural gas, and there are a number of different types and colours of glass available, “and we can customize everything,” she says.

Some other ideas for enhancing your outdoor space include all-weather rugs, floor and table lamps, fountains, string lights and giant lighted trees that come various sizes with different coloured lights.

“Adding lighting such as string lights or lighted trees helps add to the ambience of your outdoor living space and extends your enjoyment,” she says.

There are many other ideas to enhance your outdoor space, such as creating beautiful patios, decks, gardens, pergolas, water features and retaining walls. As well, the addition of outdoor fire pits and fire places has also become popular because it allows you to enjoy the space late into the evening.

Whatever idea you choose to enhance your outdoor space, with Calgary’s summer being so short, make sure you take the time to get out and enjoy it.

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BUSINESSPROFILE

MI-BOX

MI-BOX makes your move, RENO OR HOME STAGING EASIER

by HEATHER RYAN MI-BOX also rents plastic boxes for just $1 each, eliminating the hassle and expense of buying and disposing of the cardboard moving boxes. The boxes also interlock for easy of stacking, and are see-through, eliminating the need to mark and label the boxes.

Sean says they take pride in operating this family-run business which “genuinely cares about customers having a good experience. When they call us, they’re talking to me or my wife, not getting a call centre and a different person each time they phone. We deal personally with each customer, so we f you’re gearing up for a move to a new home or renovating your existing home want to make sure everything is done right and our customers are happy.” this spring, you can ease the pressure with the help of MI-BOX Moving & Mobile Storage.

To learn more about MI-BOX, visit Locally owned and operated by Sean and Steph O’Kelly, MI-BOX Moving & getmibox.com.

Mobile Storage provides the perfect solution to your moving and storing needs by delivering 8-, 16- or 20-ft. storage containers directly to your home.

“Our containers are all new and made of galvanized steel, so they won’t rust or be an eyesore,” says Sean. “They’re completely weather proof, protecting your goods from the elements, and we put special brushes on the door to prevent snow and rain from getting inside.

“Also, because they’re lightweight (they weigh about 2,000 lbs. less than older sea containers) they won’t wreck your driveway, even when fully loaded, and we place them on four wood blocks to minimize any potential of damage to the property.”

What sets MI-BOX apart is the company utilizes a revolutionary level lift system that lifts the containers on and off the truck without ever being tilted.

“The containers remain level during the entire lift process, so items won’t shift around inside, which means your antiques, fine furniture and fragile items will stay safe,” says Sean.

“We rent the containers by the month, so if you’re moving, it takes the pressure off because you can take your time to load and unload rather than having to pack and move in a day or two,” says Sean, adding that a container also costs about the same as renting a truck for two days, and far less than hiring a moving company.

The company also just recently acquired a new warehouse (8885 Venture Ave. S.E.) to offer customers secure, indoor, temperature-controlled storage, so you can store your items for several months.

“We also have a number of customers who use the containers when they’re doing a renovation,” says Sean. “They’re ideal because it allows them to move all their stuff totally out of the way during a renovation and function in their home.

“They’re also great for people who are moving and want to declutter their home,” he says. “They can put personal mementos and other items in storage while they stage their home for sale.”

I

16 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS JUN - JUL 2014

HOME STAGING, RENOVATIONS & RESTORATIONS

MI-BOX moving container solutions is convenient, flexible, secure, safe and affordable.

One call to 403.278.4474 is all it takes to have a large, weather resistant storage container delivered directly to your home, business or job site.

Renting a MI-BOX is a great way to clear out your home to make it presentable for showings! You can also temporarily remove your belongings from your home, getting them out of the way for your renovation or restoration.

Need the unit at home? Not a problem, we can leave it on your site. Not sure you have room at your location but need long-term storage? That’s ok, too! You can store your unit at our secure storage facility. You will still be able to access your MI-BOX storage unit if you choose to store it at our location.

UNIT SIZES TO FIT YOUR NEEDS

MI-BOX Moving and Mobile Storage offers the most advanced in portable storage technology and personal convenience. When you use MI-BOX portable storage units for your home or business storage needs, you experience the many things that set us apart from other mobile and traditional storage options.

Personalized service, competitive prices, industry knowledge, and years of experience, all to provide our customers with the best possible moving and storage experience.

– THE MI-BOX ADVANTAGE.

You can choose from our 8’ x 8’, 16’ x 8’ or 20’ x 8’ units. All of them are delivered with our LeveLift system and fit in standard parking lot spaces and driveways.

Combine sizes for any size job. All containers are 7 ft. 4 in. wide and 8 ft. 4 in. high (exterior dimensions).

PLASTIC STORAGE BINS

We can deliver our heavy duty plastic storage bins with your MI-BOX. Keep your possessions in the bins to eliminate the hassle of cardboard boxes! Return the empty bins to the MI-BOX when you’re all finished and we’ll take them with us when we pick it up. Bins are approximately 1.5’ x 2’ x 1’.

CORPORATE PRICING

THE LEVELIFT SYSTEM

Our delivery system ensures that your unit will remain entirely level through delivery, transport and pick-up. When your items remain level, the likelihood of damage from transport is greatly diminished.

SUPERIOR UNIT CONSTRUCTION

Each mobile storage unit is built to last a life time. Frames are hot dipped galvanized steel to prevent rust. DuraPlate wall panels are used to keep your belongings safe and dry. The form fitted roof is securely fastened to the storage container, not a piece that’s fitted after the fact, so moisture or bugs can’t get in.

403.278.4474 www.getmibox.com miboxwest@gmail.com

MI-BOX proudly offers special pricing to companies using our services for themselves or for their clients. Please call for a quote today.

ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES

We offer advertising for your company on the side of our MI-BOX. Have your company’s image and message displayed at your renovation or job site for all to see!

TIPSANDTRICKS

TRADITIONAL OR TRENDY

by SARA DUCK

Decorating is all about choices! We show you how to instantly update your kitchen with key pieces that suit your style.

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1. 26.6 Cu.Ft. French Door Refrigerator in Stainless Steel by Electrolux. $2,700. VISIT SEARS.CA 2. Providence Four Light Bronze Incandescent Pendant with Clear Glass by Illumine. $222. VISIT HOMEDEPOT.CA 3. Copper Artichoke Handle Braiser, 6-Qt by Ruffoni. $460. VISIT WILLIAMS-SONOMA.COM 4. 1.7L Classic Whistling Kettle in Red by Le Creuset. $130. VISIT THEBAY.CA 5. Belle Boulevard 13-Inch Oval Platter

by Kate Spade New York. $250. VISIT BEDBATHANDBEYOND.CA 6. French Kitchen Island. $1,499. VISIT CRATEANDBARREL.CA 18 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS JUN - JUL 2014

6 1. Soneca Pendant. $169. VISIT CB2.COM 2. Refrigerator in Red by SMEG. $1,999. VISIT WESTELM.COM 3. The Tea Maker. $300. VISIT BREVILLE.CA 4. Kobenstyle White Four-Quart Casserole by Dansk. $110. VISIT CRATEANDBARREL.CA 5. Mango Wood Medium Platter. $22. VISIT CHAPTERS.INDIGO.CA 6. Cabin Kitchen Island. $1,199.

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TIPSANDTRICKS

DECK PROJECTS

by VANESSA GASH a scale of not less than 1:200 (or 1”=20’), include all sizes of the deck with reference to property lines and list the street address and legal description.

2. DECK PLAN – A deck plan must show the dimensions of

the deck and all the structural components required to build it. This includes the number and location of concrete piles to support the deck (minimum of 25 centimetres or 10 inches in diameter), the size and location of all beams (e.g. 3-38cm x235cm or 3-2”x10”), size and spacing of joists (i.e. 2x10 @ 16”oc or 38x235 @ 400 oc), stairs if included.

3. DECK CROSS-SECTION – This drawing is a visual section

SPRING IS IN THE AIR—FINALLY! IT WAS A LONG, COLD

and snowy winter here in Calgary, but at long last, the snow has melted and green grass is beginning to poke through the fields of yellow and brown. When signs of warmer, longer days emerge, so do thoughts of gardening, outdoor activities and summer projects.

One of the most common projects at this time of year is deck construction. Whether you purchase a deck package from a local building supplier, have a contractor build one for you or build a deck yourself, it is important to know when you need a permit and ensure that it is in place before you start building.

A deck requires a building permit if it is two feet in height above ground level at any point. If the entire surface of the deck is less than two feet, the structure is considered a patio and does not require a permit. Depending on the community you live in, the size and height of your deck, you may also require a Development Permit prior to obtaining a Building Permit. To check the specific requirements based on your Land Use District, visit calgary.ca or call the Planning Services Call Centre at 403-268-5311.

Once you have confirmed your requirements you will need to prepare two sets of project plans (commonly referred to as drawings) to bring to The City’s Planning Services Centre on the 3rd floor of the Municipal Building to apply for your permit. Each set of plans requires three drawings for this type of application: 1. SITE PLAN – A site plan is a “bird’s-eye view” drawing of

your property that shows the location and dimensions of the deck you are proposing to build. A real property report is preferred, but self-prepared plans are accepted if they have all the required information. Drawings must be prepared to 20 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS JUN - JUL 2014

cut through the deck which labels important structural elements required to build. This should include the piles with dimensions of diameter and distance below grade (minimum of 1.2 metres or 4 feet), joist size, beam size, dimension of overhangs, type of decking, height of deck surface above the ground, height and type of railing.

Detailed descriptions and pictures of these items are available in the Wood Deck Brochure available on calgary.ca or at the Planning Services Centre. Please be aware that only the three plans listed above are required to process your permit.

Some retailers provide a large package of drawings that include multiple types of plans and 3D drawings. These may be very useful for the homeowner to build the deck, but require some modification before applying for your permit. In order to reduce time while processing your application you may wish to review this package and combine the required information. Remember to include the written sizes of the piles, posts, joists, beams and deck boards. If the retailer package does not have a cross section you will need to draw this by hand.

With the appropriate drawings in hand, a deck permit is usually able to be issued during your visit. If you have any questions or require any further assistance while preparing your permit contact the Planning Services Centre at 403-268-5311.

VANESSA GASH, LEED AP SAFETY CODES OFFICER - RESIDENTIAL BUILDING REGULATIONS DIVISION DEVELOPMENT AND BUILDING APPROVALS

Vanessa Gash is a Residential Plans Examiner with the Building Regulations Division at the City of Calgary. She is a graduate in Architectural Engineering Technology from College of the North Atlantic and spent a number of years with various architectural firms and homebuilders in Calgary.

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BEFORE

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Enhancing homes

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TIPSANDTRICKS

Decoding the code

by MICHAEL NYIKES

Q

I have recently had questions emailed to me asking what the impact of the Model National Energy Code is on the Alberta Building Code?

A

Improving energy efficiency standards for building construction codes supports Alberta’s Climate Change Strategy, which looks to energy efficiency and conservation as one of the three main approaches to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and reducing demand on Alberta’s energy resources.

The development of the new Model National Energy Codes started in 2007 at the initiation of the Council of Energy Ministers from across Canada. In 2008, all provincial and territorial governments endorsed the upgrading of the original 1997 Model National Energy Codes by 2012 for both buildings and houses. The work on the new codes has been undertaken by the National Research Council (NRC) with full participation of all provinces and territories.

The National Energy Code for Buildings (NECB) was published in November 2011 and the energy efficiency requirements for houses and small buildings in the National Building Code (NBC) were issued in online format on December 21, 2012.

Both the NECB and energy efficiency requirements for houses and small buildings in the NBC are proposed to be adopted as published to support consistent application of these codes across Canada. This will help ensure builders who wish to work in other jurisdictions will be working with consistent standards and will reduce costs.

26 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS JUN - JUL 2014

Energy codes and energy efficiency requirements are essentially the same as construction codes, like the Alberta Building Code, except they have energy efficiency as an objective. Otherwise they deal with the same building materials and systems as covered by the Alberta Building Code. The same provincially trained and certified safety codes officers that issue building permits and inspect construction will be trained and certified to handle energy codes. Following an initial transition period the permitting, inspection and approvals process will occur exactly as it does today and should not impose any additional time constraints on those needing permits.

Complying with the energy codes will likely add to the initial construction cost of most buildings. However, there are reports suggesting that for houses there will be zero impact on a family’s monthly household budget. This is because the added monthly mortgage charge on a standard 25 year mortgage will be off-set by the amount saved on the monthly heating bill through reduced consumption. Other factors that affect construction cost include: • Some homebuilders are already building to high energy efficiency standards which may mean zero increase for their homes.

• Size and configuration (i.e. square footage, number of stories, lot orientation).

• Location in the province, meaning homes in the south can be constructed slightly differently from those in the north to achieve the same level of energy performance.

• Commodity costs both during construction and once occupied.

Future Decoding the Code columns will continue to answer readers’ questions about how the provincial building code affects their projects. Email your questions to me at decodingthecode@gmail.com. Be sure to include which city you live in, as well as your phone number in case I need to follow up with you.

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

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FEATURE

SUMMERTIME Condo Living

by MICKEY FOULDS

28 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS JUN - JUL 2014

AT LAST! BIRDSONG IN THE EARLY MORNING,

brightening skies and unfurling leaves signal an end to an unrelenting and seemingly endless winter. Thoughts finally turn to leisurely hours spent outdoors, and luxurious outdoor living rooms, elegant gazebos and inviting spas set in manicured gardens enter our fantasies. A few undisturbed hours, a glass of wine and a good book completes the dream.

However an ever increasing number of condos are being called “home� by many. For these, walking barefoot on their own lawn or sitting under the dappled shade of a tree outside their back door will never be their reality.

Instead, confined to a small balcony that even Juliet would have been hard pressed to squeeze onto, they make do with the smallest of barbeques and a pot plant or two. There is also often little shelter from the wind, and sunlight hours are limited by the orientation of their space.

However, there is a solution. Open the doors and windows, and invite the sunshine in! With a few simple changes, cosy winter living spaces can be converted to an extension of the great outdoors and become comfortable summertime retreats by introducing appropriate elements which appeal to all the senses.

Replace heavy drapes with lightweight sheers which can blow in the breeze, and add sisal or

JUN - JUL 2014 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 29

bamboo mats to the floors. Introduce fresh bright colours in the form of soft furnishings, such as silk or linen throw cushions, as well as décor items on tables and shelves. Likewise add artwork with outdoor themes flowers, birds, butterflies and bees, or yachts, beaches and tropical islands!

With increasing environmental awareness, natural products and textures such as bamboo, wicker or cane, and cotton or linen, which appeal to our sense of touch, are readily available. Green, especially yellow greens such as chartreuse, bring freshness and a sense of tranquillity to any space. The current resurgence of blue ranging from lavender to aqua, paired with white or cream, also lends itself well to bringing the outdoors in as it reflects the colour of the ocean and sky.

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INC.

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Call for your complimentary in-home consultation complete confidence in our work, from start to finish.

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Helping to build and renovate since 1975

K

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30 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS JUN - JUL 2014 Jameswood Homes_Renovation Mag Full Page Ad_JAN.indd 1

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03/01/14 12:58 PM

AN ABUNDANCE OF INDOOR PLANTS HAS THE WELL DOCUMENTED HEALTH BENEFIT OF CLEANING AND FILTERING THE AIR. Indoor water features available in all shapes and sizes provide the relaxing sound of running water.

Wind chimes strategically placed at an open window can also add outdoor ambience, although with this comes a word of caution – the charming tinkling so appealing to you, may on a windy night, become an intolerable cacophony to your sleep deprived neighbours!

An abundance of indoor plants has the well documented health benefit of cleaning and filtering the air. Select a variety of shades of green and leaves with different textures, keep them large and group them together. Maintain them well – there is nothing quite as sad as houseplants that are miserable and drooping! Certain JUN - JUL 2014 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 31

plants (geraniums, jasmine, lavender and herbs) and cut flowers (freesias, roses, sweet peas or stocks) will infuse your space with their delicate fragrance. Add pots with a profusion of these scented flowering plants to the balcony as well. For an early start make sure they are frost resistant choices such as pansies.

Last but not least is our sense of taste – a bowl of luscious fresh strawberries accompanied by a glass of chilled champagne helps us appreciate the season’s bounty as we recline peacefully on the chaise in our tranquil, bug free, indoor summertime living space. ……………. and we smile quietly to ourselves when we hear the distant hum of lawnmowers as our neighbours are hard at work maintaining their perfect outdoor living spaces.

CERTAIN PLANTS (GERANIUMS, JASMINE, LAVENDER AND HERBS) AND CUT FLOWERS (FREESIAS, ROSES, SWEET PEAS OR STOCKS) WILL INFUSE YOUR SPACE WITH THEIR DELICATE FRAGRANCE.

“CUSTOM

IS OUR STANDARD” 32 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS JUN - JUL 2014

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

SHAWN 403-483-4452 DAN 403-813-8497 www.rocksolidrenovations.ca

FEATURE

Home-building industry celebrates its finest with

SAM Awards

by HEATHER RYAN

PICTURED ABOVE

Albi Renova GRAND SAM RENOVATOR AWARD:

(From left to right) Sponsored by JELD-WEN Windows & Doors, Luke Wideman, Murray Petkau, Al Emery, Phil Mateshaytis, Brett Papillon, Amanda Smith, Brendan Drohan, Jerry Harriman

IT WAS A NIGHT FILLED WITH EXCITEMENT

as a number of first-time and previous winners were honoured at the Canadian Home Builders Association - Calgary Region’s 27th Annual SAM (Sales and Marketing) Awards on March 29.

This year’s gala event at the TELUS Convention Centre saw more than 1,600 people join in recognizing the outstanding achievements by the home-building industry’s finest from builders and developers to marketing and sales professionals.

There was a record 776 entrants from 99 companies and 253 finalists competing for 57 SAM Awards this year.

This year’s Grand SAM Award winner for Renovator of the Year was no stranger to the winner’s circle as Albi Renova also won this award last year and in 2007.

Albi Renova also won the Best Renovator’s Choice Renovation Award and the Best Bathroom/Ensuite Renovation Award. It was also a finalist for three other awards: Best Home Renovation (with JUN - JUL 2014 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 33

01 Albi Renova, Best Renovator’s Choice

Renovation SAM award, in photo Sponsored by Canyon Plumbing & Heating Ltd, on left Luke Wideman 02 Albi Renova Best Bathroom/Ensuite

Renovation SAM Award , in photo Sponsored by Allan Forrest Sales 1991 Ltd. on right Murray Petkau 03 KON-STRUX DEVELOPMENTS INC. Best

01

02

34 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS JUN - JUL 2014

Kitchen Renovation – up to $89,999 SAM award, from left Brent Leinweber and Shannon Lenstra

Addition); Best Kitchen Renovation – up to $89,999; and Best Kitchen Renovation – $90,000 and over.

“This is our second consecutive Renovator of the Year and it’s very rewarding because there was a lot of tough competition this year so to narrow the choice down to us is really amazing,” says Brian Maurer, president and managing partner of Albi Renova. “We’re all about design and the final product and winning this award tell us what we’re doing is a success; that we’re doing something right.

“You can’t win awards alone, our partner is also our clients who are partnering on design and working through costs, so we don’t create great looking designs and projects without their help,” Maurer says. “It’s a whole team effort, and for our staff, suppliers and trades people it’s great to win awards and be a finalist because it acknowledges their hard work; it’s pride all the way around.”

Kon-strux Developments was a finalist for the Renovator of the Year Award and won the award for Best Kitchen Renovation – up to $89,999. It was also a finalist in three

WE’RE NOT THAT GUY!

100% Woman owned

03

Renovator Awards categories: Best Home Renovation (without Addition), Best Basement Renovation; and Best Bathroom/Ensuite Renovation.

“There was great competition this year for the SAM Awards,” says Shannon Lenstra, owner and president of Kon-strux. “The nominees represented the cream of the crop in Calgary. We were finalists in four categories this year, and we were thrilled to win an award for Best Kitchen Renovation under $89,999. We are excited to add this award to the pair of awards received last year; we now have a flock of geese!

“It’s a prestigious industry award, and our presence as finalists in several categories this year, including being a finalist for a National SAM Award, places Kon-strux in the same league as the large companies,” Lenstra says.

“We are excited to be a part of this amazing industry.”

Other Renovator Awards were awarded to: The Remodelers, Best Home Renovation (with Addition) and Best Basement Renovation; Homes by Avi, Best Home Renovation (without Addition); and Pinnacle Group, Best Kitchen Renovation – $90,000 and over.

Winner of the Grand SAM Award for Partner of the Year was Phi Systems. The company also won the Partner Award for Supplier & Installer of Products.

Other Partner Award winners were: Lux Windows and Glass, Supplier of Products; and CustomerInsight, Supplier of Service.

Other Grand Sam Award winners were: Morrison Homes, Builder of the Year; Empire Custom Homes, Builder of Merit; and Jayman Group of Companies, Multi-Family Builder of the Year.

CALL US TODAY

403.769.1440 www.kon-strux.com

2013 SAM Award Winner for BEST KITCHEN UNDER $89,999 and finalist in 3 other categories

JUN - JUL 2014 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 35

RENOMARK

Renovation offers

opportunity for homeowners

by BRYAN TUCKEY

BUYING A NEW HOME OR CONDOMINIUM IS A GREAT

option for anyone looking to move to a quality, complete community. But what about those who want a fresh start for their existing home? That’s where a home renovation comes in. Renovating a home has become increasingly popular among homeowners wishing to stay in their existing neighbourhoods. While I understand the excitement that comes with renovating your home, it is very important to do your homework and ensure that you hire a professional contractor to make sure your home receives the renovation it deserves.

More and more homeowners looking to improve the value of their homes, as well as their quality of life, are opting for renovation.

BILD is proudly affiliated with the national RenoMark program, which our association first launched right here in Toronto in 2001. The program helped homeowners identify

36 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS JUN - JUL 2014

and hire professional renovation contractors who have agreed to a renovation-specific code of conduct. This means they can rely on their contractor to offer at least two years’ warranty, carry $2-million liability insurance and carry out all work after signing a detailed, written contract.

Today RenoMark is available in nine provinces and more than 40 communities across Canada.

What’s important to know is that every professional renovator you hire is a step toward combating the underground economy.

The home renovation sector in Canada is still fighting underground operators who work on a “cash only” basis.

These contractors pose a number of potential dangers to the unsuspecting homeowner. Consumer protection is compromised when you hire underground renovators because there is no written contract to hold them accountable for quality of work.

If something goes wrong, you could end up losing a lot more than you had hoped to save with a cash transaction.

That’s actually one of the reasons we first started the RenoMark program – to help homeowners renovate with confidence by offering them a source for professional renovators.

I have heard it said many times by our professional RenoMark contractors. “You think it’s expensive hiring a professional? Wait until you hire an amateur!”

If you are thinking about renovating your home or condominium this year, visit renomark.ca to use our searchable database of professional renovators to determine if the RenoMark program is right for you. The website offers numerous additional resources, including the RenoGuide – a five-step guide to a worry-free renovation.

The underground economy is detrimental to our economy, our industry and the quality of our homes. It’s time to put a stop to it.

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

CUSTOM RENOVATIONS & Special Projects

A PEAK AT

CALGARY’S MOST EXCEPTIONALLY

UNIQUE HOMES 2014

TABLE OF CONTENTS

20

24 4 6 8 10 12 14

Ultimate Renovations Kon-Strux Developments Inc Rossini’s Furniture Kurmak Builders Albi Renova Escapes Inc.

Cover Photo courtesy of Interiors with Elegance

12

CUSTOM RENOVATIONS & Special Projects 2014 VICE PRESIDENT, WALL2WALL MEDIA

Jacqueline Hill

8

DIRECTOR OF SALES, WESTERN CANADA

Josh Heppner

MEDIA CONSULTANT

Anita van Breevoort 403.461.5518 PRODUCTION MANAGER

Bala Gnanapandithan ART DIRECTOR

Tammy Leung PRODUCTION CO-ORDINATOR/ GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Mohammad Haidarpour GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Mike Terentiev

Custom Renovations & Special Projects magazine is published by Home Décor and Renovations magazine is distributed throughout Calgary and 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.

6 26

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

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

4 16 18 20 22 24 26

Classic Craft Homes Gienow Renovations by Ply Gem Cardel Renos Overhead Door Company Interiors With Elegance Trademark Renovations

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

CUSTOM RENOVATIONS & SPECIAL PROJECTS A peak at Calgary’s most exceptional unique homes 2891 Sunridge Way NE Calgary, AB T1Y 7K7 T 403.461.5518 E anita.vanbreevoort@wall2wallmedia.com PUBLISHED BY Published By

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

CREATE THE ULTIMATE SPA EXPERIENCE IN YOUR OWN HOME WITH

ULTIMATE RENOVATIONS Ù By Collette Burjack IMAGINE ENJOYING A SPA-LIKE

experience in your own home. That’s what Ultimate Renovations brought to one Calgary family looking to combine comfort and convenience in their estate home. With the addition of a stunning en suite and oversized master bedroom, Ultimate Renovations transformed their family home into a luxurious retreat.

Featuring a beautiful freestanding tub, spacious custom glass shower and individual vanities, the remodeled en suite is perfect for both him and her. The spa-like atmosphere continues in the master bedroom with a cozy sitting area perfect for relaxing with a good book and a 4 CUSTOM RENOVATIONS & SPECIAL PROJECTS

glass of wine. A two-way Marquis Infinite lineal ribbon fireplace, enhanced by a gorgeous custom concrete surround, connects the en suite and master bedroom, making the space a personal sanctuary ideal for unwinding after a long day.

Designed for function as well as comfort, the addition of a secondfloor laundry, storage space and generous customized walk-in closet makes this house the ultimate in luxury living.

Upholding its reputation for superior craftsmanship, Ultimate Renovations seamlessly integrated the new addition into the home’s existing structure. By installing ninefoot ceilings, Ultimate Renovations created a unique, layered roofline

that enhances the home’s mission style exterior. Best of all, by building the addition over the home’s triple garage, Ultimate Renovations was able to meet all of the homeowners’ needs without compromising any of the existing space.

“Typically, when we do an addition we have to use space in the existing home,” explains Corinne Gill, renovation consultant for Ultimate Renovations. “Here, we were able to provide everything the family wanted without compromising the existing living space. The homeowners were amazed when we showed them the plans; they couldn’t believe we came up with such creative solutions.”

In addition to the innovative design, the homeowners love the finishing

details that Ultimate Renovations brought to their home. From a warming drawer for their towels to a remote lift for their chandelier (making it possible for the homeowners to change light bulbs by simply pressing a button!), Ultimate Renovations made the home uniquely theirs.

“The quality and detail of this project reflects the character of Ultimate Renovations,” says John McCoy, general manager. “Not only are our homes extremely functional, but the care and level of workmanship that goes into each of our projects is unsurpassed.”

It is because of this dedication to quality and customer care that Ultimate Renovations has earned the unprecedented honor

of winning eight Renovator of the Year awards — in addition to accumulating more than 50 nominations and awards in the Calgary Home Builders’ Association National SAM Awards.

While Gill is proud of the recognition Ultimate Renovations has achieved during its 35-year history, what is most satisfying to her is the knowledge that she is helping customers achieve the home of their dreams — a fact that is demonstrated by the number of repeat and referred clients she sees every year.

From design through to construction, Ultimate Renovations has the expertise to help clients through the process of envisioning and creating their own luxury home.

Visit ultimaterenovations.com or call 403-287-3122 today to discover how Ultimate Renovations can enhance your home!

CUSTOM RENOVATIONS & SPECIAL PROJECTS 5

KON-STRUX

PRESENTS EXCEPTIONAL CRAFTSMANSHIP Ù By Heather Ryan AS A WINNER OF MULTIPLE SAM

Awards locally and a finalist for national awards for its outstanding projects it’s not surprising Konstrux Developments has gained a reputation for its exceptional craftsmanship and creative designs.

Since its inception in 2007, owner and president Shannon Lenstra has provided her clients with the highest quality working closely with them to help make their renovation ideas and dreams come true.

One of Kon-strux’s most unique reno projects recently was to a 1950s bungalow in Hounsfield Heights that was close to a year in the making.

6 CUSTOM RENOVATIONS & SPECIAL PROJECTS

“The home posed the biggest renovation challenges that I have ever faced,” says Lenstra. “We had mould issues behind the walls, electrical problems stemming back to previous renovations and structural issues – the house was sinking and the roof on the garage was collapsing.

“We did a full renovation inside and out including a new roof, new exterior and we even created the patio and the landscaping,” Lenstra says. “The only items that remained original were the stone fireplace and the pool.”

The home’s new full stone wrap around exterior creates an “urban Canmore feel, which is what the owners wanted,” she says. “It

presents a warm, comfortable feel and inside we mixed contemporary with natural elements. Also, the husband is an environmental scientist so it was really important for us to use environmentally friendly products and materials throughout the process.”

The owners wanted an open feel inside with everything on one level so they could enjoy their home well into their retirement years, so Lenstra and her crew created an open feel and made rooms easily accessible such as putting a main-floor laundry room adjacent to the kitchen.

The home was basically gutted inside to the studs and they rebuilt walls creating three bedrooms, a den, living and dining rooms, kitchen,

laundry, ensuite and a second full bathroom – all highlighted by incredible details, custom-crafted cabinets and high-end finishing.

A highlight inside is the existing flagstone fireplace that is gorgeous and blends in well with the stone accent walls. Lenstra also had a custom blacksmith create the wrought iron work for the door handles, hand rails and the supports under the island.

The kitchen is a show stopper as it features quartzite countertops, custom built maple cabinetry and all new appliances. Of course, the main full bath with its stone tumble inlay in the walk-in shower that looks like a river flowing behind the showerhead

is simply stunning, too.

“The homeowners were so nice to work with and they were totally involved in the process and open to new ideas,” Lenstra says. “It was a beautiful project.”

Kon-strux also recently completed a fabulous kitchen in another home where the homeowners love to entertain large family gatherings.

“They wanted a much larger kitchen where everyone could gather, so we eliminated a dining room that was behind the kitchen that was under utilized and pushed the kitchen back, expanding the space to accommodate a large group,” Lenstra says.

The kitchen was also totally

updated with custom cabinets, an eye-catching custom hood fan, new stainless steel appliances including two wall ovens and a warming drawer.

“They love to cook and have huge family gatherings so it’s a great design for them and I really like it because it’s something different.”

WE’RE NOT THAT GUY!

100% Woman owned

If you’re considering a renovation project, visit Kon-strux Developments at kon-strux.com or call 403-769-1440.

CUSTOM RENOVATIONS & SPECIAL PROJECTS 7

LIMITLESS POSSIBILITIES ARE JUST THE BEGINNING AT

ROSSINI’S FURNITURE Ù By Collette Burjack YOU JUST MIGHT END UP staying longer than you expected if you visit Val, one of Rossini’s Furniture’s most recent clients. That’s thanks to the fully customized reclining sectional and chair that now furnish her home theatre.

“You have to be careful not to recline too far because you will fall asleep!” Val says with a laugh.

“When people visit, they never want to leave!”

Val had searched for months to find the perfect couch to compliment the rustic, southwestern theme she and 8 CUSTOM RENOVATIONS & SPECIAL PROJECTS

her husband desired for their newly renovated basement.

“I looked online, but everything was very square and clinical looking,” says Val. “It didn’t match the warm, cozy, inviting feeling we wanted for our home.”

Just when Val was about to give up her search, she stumbled across Rossini’s Furniture — a Calgarybased store that specializes in custom-designed furniture. Guided

by Rossini’s team of experts, Val was able to design a sectional and chair perfectly tailored to meet her needs.

As southern Alberta’s specialist in leather upholstery, Rossini’s Furniture

gave Val the opportunity to choose from among hundreds of genuine top grain Italian leather and designer fabric options.

“I was able to feel and handle all the leather samples,” says Val. “I had been worried that I was going to have to order something online without having the chance to see or feel it, so this was a wonderful experience.”

While her new furniture is all about comfort, what is really turning heads is the exquisite pony brindle Val selected to adorn the sectional and chair. Made from genuine calf hair in natural colouration patterns, this unique feature truly makes Val’s

furniture one-of-a-kind.

For Todd Markin, sales and marketing manager, Val’s experience exemplifies the dedicated customer care and limitless possibilities clients can expect from Rossini’s Furniture — all at an affordable price.

“Your furniture is just that: your furniture. When you walk into Rossini’s showroom, you are treated to a unique selection of home furnishing you just don’t find at conventional furniture stores,” says Markin. “With a little direction and encouragement we help you become your own designer and create the exact look you are trying to achieve.

Your dream room is only limited by your imagination.”

Val couldn’t agree more. Her fully customized sectional and couch has helped transform her basement into the home theatre she’d envisioned: the perfect place to entertain friends, relax with a glass of wine or snuggle up to watch a movie. And, with Rossini’s Furniture’s recent addition of bedroom and dining room products, Val is already looking forward to bringing that personalized flare to the rest of her home.

“Sometimes just simply refreshing your home furnishings is all that is needed to create the room of your

dreams,” says Markin. “Whatever your custom renovation consists of — whether it’s new flooring or paint or a complete demolition and rebuild — you don’t have to settle for the same old outdated or boring furniture. Be unique. Be creative. Make it yours.”

Visit rossinis.com or call 403-259-4448 today to discover how Rossini’s Furniture can help you personalize your home.

CUSTOM RENOVATIONS & SPECIAL PROJECTS 9

BRINGING HOMEOWNERS’ DREAMS TO LIFE IS THE INSPIRATION BEHIND

KURMAK BUILDERS’ SUCCESS Ù By Collette Burjack AFTER 11 YEARS, the Lords’ beloved

bungalow in Varsity was rapidly becoming too small for their growing family. They faced the same dilemma many homeowners confront at some point: should they move to a larger house in a less desirable or remote community? Or should they renovate?

The Lords wanted to stay in the place they called home, but they worried their house would prove too difficult to update. Like most homes built in the 1960s and 70s, their bungalow was a series of rooms: walls and doors partitioned everything from the kitchen to the dining room.

The effect was closed and stifling — requiring a complete overhaul to achieve the open, inviting space the family envisioned.

Fortunately for the Lords, Kurmak Builders specializes in making homeowners’ dreams a reality.

Creating a new floor plan on top of an existing foundation is no easy feat, but as one of Calgary’s premier custom home builders and home renovation experts, Kurmak Builders was up for the challenge.

For seven months, Kurmak Builders worked with the Lords to design, plan and execute a complete renovation that transformed the outdated bungalow into a modern home tailored to meet the family’s needs.

With the assistance of Lindsay O. Creative Interior Design, Kurmak Builders created an ideal space for entertaining, relaxing and living by opening the dining room, living room and kitchen. A hidden mudroom accessible by both the front and back entrances conceals the clutter of

10 CUSTOM RENOVATIONS & SPECIAL PROJECTS

coats and shoes, and the addition of a bedroom to the newly developed basement provides plenty of room for the family to grow.

“Before they had been living in rooms, now they are living in a home,” says Frank Gordon-Cooper, general manager of Kurmak Builders. “We were able to create a unique space that is perfectly suited to their family.”

But the Lords are just one of countless families who have rediscovered the potential of their home thanks to Kurmak Builders.

Like the Lords, the Wongs loved their longtime family home in Dalhousie. But after their children left home and they began nearing retirement, the Wongs needed to update their house to keep pace with their changing lifestyle.

In cooperation with Kurmak Builders, Lindsay O. Creative

Visit kurmakbuilders.com or call 403-277-5525 today to see how Kurmak Builders can transform your home.

developed a new floor plan that worked within the Wongs’ budget. By making a few key changes, including removing the wall between the kitchen and dining room, Kurmak Builders helped the Wongs recreate their home into a haven perfect for entertaining visiting family and friends.

For Frank, what makes these projects special is not the considerable technical expertise or creative engineering that went into making them possible — it was seeing the homeowners’ reaction to their new homes.

“What makes us unique is that we get to know our clients and what’s important to them, and we carry that relationship throughout the project,” says Frank Gordon-Cooper. “For me, success is not only defined by having a beautiful, well-built project, but by having the homeowners tell us that their home is now everything they were looking for.”

Photos courtesy of Suzannelizabeth Photography CUSTOM RENOVATIONS & SPECIAL PROJECTS 11

DESIGN CENTRAL TO AWARD-WINNING

ALBI RENOVA Ù By Heather Ryan A THREE-TIME RENOVATOR of the Year award-winner Albi Renova offers its clients three decades of experience, quality craftsmanship and exceptional customer service.

But it’s Albi Renova’s innovative designs and creativity that really makes it stand out.

“Design is central to what Albi is all about; it’s our focus from the very beginning of a project, which results in a smoother, efficient and overall quality renovation or new build,” says Brian Maurer, president and managing partner of Albi Renova.

One outstanding design, which earned Albi the Best Renovator’s

Choice Renovation Award this year, involved a modern update to a 1970s-era two-storey home in Bearspaw. “The home was huge, about 8,000 square feet, and the areas we touched turned out fantastic,” Maurer says.

“The most spectacular feature is the wine room,” he says. “The owner loves wine and wanted to showcase it. We started out talking about a wine cabinet and it really evolved from there.

“Originally when you walked into the home there was an alcove that was a sitting area with this big builtin bench on the way to the kitchen and it was pretty useless space,” Maurer says. “I saw it and thought it

12 CUSTOM RENOVATIONS & SPECIAL PROJECTS

would be cool to build a wine room in that space with a glass wall and lights so when you walk by it’s like wine displays you see in some highend restaurants, and the client said, ‘That’s exactly it,’ and it stuck.”

The wine room is a showpiece and focal point of the home highlighted by glass, stone, wood racks and lights and there is window on another side so the homeowners and guests can see it from the dining room.

Albi Renova also changed the front entry and painted the curved staircase white; tying into the decorative stone on the one side to create a dramatic look.

The main floor powder room

Before features a unique wine barrel converted to a sink and a gorgeous glossy stone wall.

The kitchen was turned into a chef’s dream with white cabinets rising to the ceiling and a massive dark island in an eye-catching contrast. The fridge blends seamlessly into the cabinetry, there’s a stainless steel hood over a gas cook top, built-in wall oven and microwave and a huge wall pantry.

“There was this big beam that ran through the kitchen and dining room that was kind of ‘in your face’ and we changed it by blending it into a coffered ceiling and we raised the ceiling by removing sunshine lighting,” Maurer says.

Upstairs, Albi created a luxurious ensuite with inviting soaker tub featuring a ceiling-mounted tub filler that required creative plumbing relocation, a large glass walk-in shower with body jets and dual sinks in a long vanity flanked by cabinet towers.

“Downstairs the homeowner’s wanted an older movie theatre feel so we created a home theatre with raised seating,” Maurer says. “We also built a wet bar,” that features

an island with bar seating and stone pillars for a distinctive look.

“Because the home was so big we didn’t renovate everything so we matched older finishes with new to ensure the renovated space and un-renovated spaces seamlessly blended,” he says.

“In the end, we created a more family-friendly functioning home that presents a more contemporary feel.”

To learn more about or book a renovation project with ALBI RENOVA, visit www.albirenova.com or call 403-203-7676.

CUSTOM RENOVATIONS & SPECIAL PROJECTS 13

ESCAPES

CREATES BEAUTIFUL GARDENS, LANDSCAPES

Ù By Heather Ryan BONNY DANN’S passion for gardening can be seen in every project she designs from small backyard spaces to expansive gardens.

As the owner of Escapes Inc Dann has been designing gardens for more than 20 years specializing in developing new spaces and garden makeovers to increase a home’s curb appeal.

“We’ve been doing a lot more contemporary garden designs recently including one for an architect in northwest Calgary,” Dann says.

“He had an older home and left the

foundation and basement intact, but rebuilt the home up and out creating a beautiful contemporary design.”

“It’s important to match the style of your garden with the architecture so we’ve created a very contemporary look with a clean, simple, calmer feel and a linear design,” she says. “He has the biggest city lot I’ve seen, it’s a large pie-shaped lot that’s 150-ft. wide in the back and we actually started planning the garden two years ago and did extensive work last year. We’re going back this year to complete it.”

The front presents a fabulous combination of Dwarf Norway

14 CUSTOM RENOVATIONS & SPECIAL PROJECTS

Spruce, purple and yellow flowering plants, Travertine pathways, blue fescue grass and blue-brown crushed rock in the garden beds, which “is all just gorgeous,” Dann says. “In most contemporary gardens you get a lot of white, but the owner wanted the yellow and purple and it looks amazing.”

“In the back yard we’ve created a huge berm – it’s the focal point and can be seen from anywhere in the garden and from inside the home – that we’ll plant this spring with ribbons of muted colours – soft blues, greys, greens and golds and again we’ll continue the Travertine

hard surface. The pathways will all be straight and angular in keeping with the linear look and it will all be low maintenance.”

Dann adds that they created living and dining spaces where the owners can relax and enjoy their outdoor splendor. “The project has been very labour intensive and we had challenges with grading issues, but it’s turned out to be very beautiful.”

If you don’t have the space or the budget for this large of a garden you can still have the contemporary look on a small scale, such as one Escapes created for an infill home in Marda Loop last year on just

a 25-ft. wide lot. “We installed a deck, a stone patio, pathways, trees, shrubs and plants and made dining and living spaces – it’s pretty incredible what you can do in a small space,” Dann says “I love the order, simplicity and peacefulness of the contemporary garden, but the majority of our work still involves creating traditional gardens because it reflects the majority of the architecture found in Calgary.”

Escapes offers a full landscaping service and Dann has a stone crew that builds features such as retaining walls, patios, walkways, outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, fire pits,

waterfalls and water features, and a concrete crew that does full pours for walkways, driveways, patios as well as coloured stamp and exposed aggregate work. Escapes also does garden and lawn maintenance including pruning shrubs, hedges & small tress.

To learn more about Escapes Inc, visit www.escapesinc.ca, or call 403-803-0773.

CUSTOM RENOVATIONS & SPECIAL PROJECTS 15

CUSTOM BUILDER CRAFTS

CLASSIC RENOVATIONS  By Heather Ryan ATTENTION TO DETAIL and

commitment to quality is what separates the true craftsman from the rest of the pack. The owners of Classic Craft Homes know this and put quality and workmanship at the highest level of importance.

Since their start in 1989, owners Dave and Frank Dayka have a combined 50 years of homebuilding and renovating experience, and have built their business and their reputations on offering personalized service, premium craftsmanship and unwavering attention to detail.

Classic Craft began by building production homes but it didn’t take

the Daykas long to realize their passion and expertise demanded they move into the custom side of the business to let their creativity and craftsmanship truly shine. This passion has allowed them to help hundreds of people get the home of their dreams, through renovations and custom home builds.

Amongst these treasures, is a show-stopping project, which was a complete remodel of a bungalow in Bearspaw. “This home was built in the early 1980s and is close to 5,000 square feet over two floors,” Dave says. “The owners wanted a complete upgrade so after many consultation meetings with them, we began by completely gutting the

16 CUSTOM RENOVATIONS & SPECIAL PROJECTS

home down to the drywall and did some reconfiguration of the floor plan.” And the house soon began a transformation that you would find almost impossible to believe.

One bedroom on the main floor was transformed into a fashionistas’ dream – a stunning walk in closet complete with custom built-in cherry cabinets and a granite-topped island. “The closet is pretty amazing and it was totally custom built on site,” Dave says. In fact, the whole home has custom-built cherry cabinets from the kitchen to the ensuite to the many stunning built-in entertainment wall centres.

The kitchen is a feast for the eyes showcasing premium granite,

stonework around the cook top, stainless steel appliances, a fridge and dishwasher with custom panels that blends seamlessly into the cabinetry, a gorgeous island and more.

“We also redesigned the living room and dining space to create a huge dining room with a custom built hutch so the owners could have a much larger space to host dinners.”

The ensuite was also upgraded and turned into a spa-like retreat complete with custom cabinets, dual sinks, separate makeup table, unique granite on the tub deck and a lavish steam shower. Every detail throughout the transformed house is

a testament to pure craftsmanship, from the curved staircase highlighted with curved panelling to the detailing in the wet bar featuring a granite top with a leathered-look finish and handcrafted cabinets.

The lower level has cork floors throughout; while upstairs has bamboo and tile underfoot with decorative details overhead such as cherry cornice to tie in with the cabinetry throughout the home.

“The amount of woodwork done in this home is incredible and very dramatic and the owners were thrilled with the outcome,” Dave says.

Dave and Frank look back at their past 25 years in business and are thankful that they chose to set

their standards higher and aim to always produce superior homes, additions and renovations. This level of excellence has been the cornerstone of a solid company built primarily on repeat clientele and customer referrals.

For more information about Classic Craft Homes, visit classiccrafthomes.ca or call 403-730-0104.

CUSTOM RENOVATIONS & SPECIAL PROJECTS 17

GIENOW RENOVATIONS

BY PLY GEM HELPS HOMEOWNER MAKE GREAT FIRST IMPRESSION

 By Heather Ryan MAKING A GREAT first impression is what Ben Zadow wanted when he hired Gienow Renovations by Ply Gem to help update his 1914 Heritage home in Elboya.

Zadow, who is studying to be an architect, purchased the historic home two years ago with his wife after falling in love with the blend of classic Heritage character and modern upgrades.

The home had undergone several renovations over the years including an addition to the rear of the home in the 1960s and the creation of a contemporary, high-end kitchen in recent years.

Zadow also created a fabulous media/family room on the third floor, but the biggest project he faced was the exterior, which was in dire need of repair and upgrading to make the home more energy efficient.

“We had water pouring down the side of the house when it rained and air leaking in so we redid the exterior,” Zadow says. Exterior renovations included spray foam insulation and the installation of new cladding and roofing.

However, the biggest issue was the windows – they were all single-pane with storm windows so they were drafty and not at all energy efficient.

“The original window design really

18 CUSTOM RENOVATIONS & SPECIAL PROJECTS

Before makes the home, giving it a kind of Cape Cod look with the smaller diamond shaped windows above the large ones,” Zadow says.

“They definitely add character and it was important to us to keep that look – it makes a great first impression when people see the home.”

In order to maintain the historic look of the windows and increase energy efficiency, Zadow turned to

Gienow Renovations, which designs, manufactures and installs custom windows. “I talked to a few friends and did some research and decided on Gienow because they could provide the best quality and price.”

Dallas Paquette, director of retail operations for Gienow Renovations

by Ply Gem, says one of the challenges with this home was the creation of the smaller windows that have four diamond-shaped panes.

Originally, each pane was done individually and separated by a wood frame, which to do today would be an immense undertaking especially having double panes. So Gienow Renovations recreated the look of the original windows with a simulated lite design that provided the Zadows with much-needed high-efficiency double-paned glass.

“The difficulty we had came with the angles of the diamonds plus the fact that they were all different sizes,” Paquette says. “In addition, many of the bigger window frames were built into the home so it was challenging to cut out the old windows and install new ones without damaging the casings, mouldings and the wood.”

“There were a lot of challenges and hiccups because of the custom work including matching the mouldings, which was very important to maintain

the historic look of the home. Even though there were lots of challenges, Gienow Renovations was happy to spend the time to get it right,” Zadow says. “There were more than 100 windows and they did a great job.”

Gienow Renovations by Ply Gem provides a 10-year warranty on the labour and a lifetime warranty on its high quality product, which is energy efficient and designed to improve your home’s appearance and comfort.

To book your next renovation project or for more information on Gienow Renovations by Ply Gem, visit gienow.com or call 403-203-8270.

CUSTOM RENOVATIONS & SPECIAL PROJECTS 19

CARDEL RENOVATIONS

BRINGS A SCANDINAVIAN FLARE TO CALGARY

Ù By Collette Burjack CONTEMPORARY DOES not have to mean cookie cutter. That is the message Cardel Renovations is sending Calgary homeowners with the recent rebuild of a Panorama Hills home.

After living in the same house for more than seven years, the young homeowners came to Cardel Renovations looking for a change.

They were tired of their home’s dark and gloomy interior and wanted to transform it into something fresh, modern and bright.

For the experienced Cardel Renovations team, this project was a

welcome challenge.

“Usually when you’re doing interior renovations you’re limited to a particular area of the house,” explains Clare Gardner, sales and design consultant. “But with a project like this, you’re starting from scratch. You’re opening yourself up to endless possibilities.”

With the guidance of Cardel’s experienced design team, the homeowners decided to rebuild their home with a unique Scandinavian theme. Distinguished by its emphasis on clean, simple lines, the use of natural materials and a light colour palate, this minimalist style could create the

20 CUSTOM RENOVATIONS & SPECIAL PROJECTS

functional but open feeling the homeowners desired.

“This is a style that is quite popular in Europe and larger cities, but not many Calgarians have explored its potential,” says Gardner.

“A lot of homeowners are interested in a modern and contemporary design, and this home shows that you can take that look in a lot of different directions.”

Most striking is the remodeled kitchen. Floating shelves and sleek quartz countertops evoke a sense of space that is reinforced by the room’s minimalist design.

An induction cook top above the wall oven creates the illusion of a

range, further enhancing the home’s unique Scandinavian feel. And the warm white-on-white colour scheme mirrors the flood of natural light that spills through generous windows — making this the ideal place to cook, entertain and spend time with family and friends.

Walking through the rest of the home, it is clear that every detail has been carefully selected and customized to harmonize with the homeowners’ unique vision — from the whimsical tiling around the fireplace and white oak engineered floors, to the addition of an upper laundry room and luxurious ensuite. Of course, the children love

showing off their artistic skills thanks to their new chalkboard paint wall.

“The homeowners are completely in love with the house. Their family and friends can’t believe its transformation,” says Gardner with a smile. “It’s their dream home now.”

Helping homeowners realize their dreams is what Cardel Renovations does best. With more than 41 years’ experience building and renovating homes, Cardel guides homeowners through the process of designing and creating their perfect space. Renowned for its quality craftsmanship and innovative designs, Cardel Renovations gives homeowners peace of mind knowing

that they are receiving the best in home design.

“We pride ourselves on our customized approach to renovations,” says Gardner. “Our clients work with a designer who helps bring their personal style to life.

There are no limits to what our clients can achieve.”

Visit cardelrenos.com or call 403-258-1511 today to discover your home’s possibilities.

CUSTOM RENOVATIONS & SPECIAL PROJECTS 21

OVERHEAD DOOR COMPANY OFFERS QUALITY AND SELECTION Ù By Heather Ryan FOR MORE THAN 90 YEARS the Overhead Door Corporation, today called the Overhead Door Company, has been known for its quality products, industry knowledge, expert installations and customer service.

Homeowners can enhance the curb appeal of their property and add to their home’s value by installing a new garage door, says sales representative Angela Cornforth.

“The garage door is usually the first thing people see when coming up to a front-drive garage home, so it’s a chance to make a statement,” Cornforth says, adding people can

choose a design that best suits their taste and reflects their home’s style from traditional to contemporary.

One unique project the Overhead Door Company recently completed was the installation of two doors on a triple car garage home in Calgary. The doors selected by the homeowner are one of the Carriage Series styles so they have a country-style wood look featuring a beautiful red oak stain, but they are actually a steel doors that are maintenance-free.

“The customer had old wood doors and wanted something different, especially since the garage takes up about 75 per cent of the front of the home and these doors really stand out

22 CUSTOM RENOVATIONS & SPECIAL PROJECTS

against the neighbours,” says Calgary sales representative Darren Smith.

“Originally everything was brown – the garage doors and the front door – and the tendency is to go brown, but there was a lot red in the brick on the garage so the homeowner wanted to go with a red oak stain,” Smith says. “I thought it wouldn’t look good, but when we installed it I thought, ‘I’m proud of what we do;’ it looks absolutely amazing and the homeowner says it was the best decision she made.”

The Overhead Door Company, which has branches in Calgary, Lethbridge, Edmonton (Pella Windows & Doors) and Cranbrook

THE GARAGE DOOR IS USUALLY THE FIRST THING PEOPLE SEE WHEN COMING UP TO A FRONT-DRIVE GARAGE HOME, SO IT’S A CHANCE TO MAKE A STATEMENT to serve Southern and Interior B.C., offers top-of-the-line products to meet the needs of its residential, commercial and industrial customers.

“We carry a wide range of products and continue to add to our product line offering different materials of doors, glass options and styles giving homeowners a huge selection to choose from,” says Cornforth.

“People are welcome to visit our Calgary showroom and check out the various product lines; I think they’ll be surprised with how many styles and colours are available.”

Since a lot of homeowners like the look of wood, but not the maintenance, the company offers two

top-rated styles: the Carriage House Collection, mentioned above, which combines the beauty of a wood look with the durability of steel; and the Impression Collection engineered with a wood-grain fibreglass surface that conceals its durable steel construction. Both come in several stains and styles.

The company also carries several other collections including a contemporary Aluminum series that presents sleek aluminum and glass designs, Thermacore, a premium insulated steel, Durafirm, which features a vinyl skin, traditional wood and more.

Along with the doors, it also carries state-of-the-art garage door openers.

Above all, customer service and satisfaction “is very important to us,” Cornforth says. “We want to ensure our customers are getting quality products and service, by providing a knowledgeable sales staff and installers.”

For more information about the Overhead Door Company, visit www.overheaddoor.com or call 403-262-7777.

CUSTOM RENOVATIONS & SPECIAL PROJECTS 23

INTERIORS WITH ELEGANCE

CREATES THOUGHTFUL, UNIQUE DESIGNS Ù By Heather Ryan RENOVATING A TIRED LOOKING space

into an elegant interior involves creativity, detailed design and commitment to quality – all of which Interiors With Elegance has been providing its customers for more than 25 years.

“We’re a design build company,” says Darrin Burton, founder and CEO of Interiors With Elegance.

“We take time to listen to our clients, present suggestions and alternatives and offer customers designs that are thoughtful, creative, unique and functional.”

One unique project recently completed by Interiors With Elegance

was a renovation on the main floor of a 1990s two-storey infill home in northwest Calgary.

“Through the years, we completed other projects for the owners which they loved so much they asked us back. First it was their ensuite, then the basement,” Burton explains, noting 72 per cent of their work comes through repeat customers and referrals. “This time they wanted the main floor reconfigured. It was a traditional layout with a front living room and dining room with a kitchen, dining nook, family room and halfbath in the back with a lot of walls and they wanted to open up the space.

“It posed a challenge because they wanted to remove a load bearing

24 CUSTOM RENOVATIONS & SPECIAL PROJECTS

wall so we not only had to distribute the load correctly, but also move mechanical, plumbing and electrical to free up the space,” Burton notes.

“However, the owners also have a lot of artwork and we had to leave enough wall space for them to display it as well as add lighting to showcase it.”

A main focus in the reno was the kitchen where they turned a small space into a work of art all on its own. The focal point is the massive L-shaped island that includes table-type seating at the one end eliminating the need for the dining nook. Cabinets rise from floor to ceiling in many places and one cabinet was specifically designed

WE TAKE TIME TO LISTEN TO OUR CLIENTS, PRESENT SUGGESTIONS AND ALTERNATIVES AND OFFER CUSTOMERS DESIGNS THAT ARE THOUGHTFUL, CREATIVE, UNIQUE AND FUNCTIONAL and illuminated to create a focal point on a beautiful sculpture. The gorgeous design also includes granite countertops, an eye-catching glass mosaic backsplash and modern amenities of a wall oven and built-in wine fridge.

“The owners had a unique countertop piece with fossils in it that they wanted to integrate into the project somewhere, so we used it for the redesigned half-bath,” Burton states. They also took out a closet off the rear entry and crafted built-in lockers that blend seamlessly into the now extended kitchen cabinetry.

Another challenge was working around a large beam that couldn’t be removed, but Burton’s crew

custom crafted cabinets to fit perfectly around it. “Having our own cabinet making shop and crews we are able keep the work in house, which helps us meet and surpass customer expectations.”

They certainly exceeded customers’ expectations recently when they transformed a dated looking ensuite into an ultracontemporary spa highlighted by a uniquely-stylized curved wood wall that guides you inside to a fabulous shower complete with rain shower head and body sprays.

“The wall gives it a really unique look much like you’d find in a luxury spa or hotel,” Burton adds. “The customer had glass blocks that they

wanted to keep, but in this instance we felt it wouldn’t work with the modern style so we came up with this curved wood wall as an alternative and it looks stunning.”

To learn more about Interiors With Elegance, visit interiorswithelegance.ca or call 403-282-9176.

CUSTOM RENOVATIONS & SPECIAL PROJECTS 25

TRADEMARK RENOVATIONS TRANSFORMS 1940S BUNGALOW INTO MODERN MASTERPIECE Ù By Collette Burjack WHAT CAN YOU DO WITH an

outdated, old-fashioned bungalow?

Just about anything.

That’s the answer Trademark Renovations gave the homeowners of a 1940s inner-city house. True to their word, Trademark transformed the dated bungalow into the homeowners’ dream home — twice.

“What started out as a very simple bungalow has turned into this fantastic house with three floors and big, open concepts,” says Nancy West, project manager. “The homeowners absolutely love it.”

Today, you can’t miss the stunning three-story detached house in Altadore, one of Calgary’s most trendy districts. But the process of converting this modest bungalow into the latest in contemporary design was far from simple.

Trademark first confronted the house in 2009. Performing a complete interior and exterior renovation, Trademark updated everything from the siding and cabinetry to the plumbing and electrical. Upholding its reputation for quality craftsmanship, Trademark breathed new life into the older home.

26 CUSTOM RENOVATIONS & SPECIAL PROJECTS

The homeowners loved their fresh and modern design; however, the birth of their first child made them realize the house was too small for their growing family. With a second child on the horizon, they returned to the renovation company they trusted with an even bigger challenge: add two stories while preserving the original renovations.

Undaunted, Trademark spent the next nine months transforming the modest two-bedroom, one-bath bungalow into a magnificent threebedroom, two-bath multi-storey home.

But what truly makes this house spectacular is the addition of a

photo credit to Rob Moroto Photographer - Calgary Photos

Before

playroom that is every child’s fantasy.

Encompassing the entire third floor and brimming with toys, entering the playroom is like stepping into a childhood dream. Spacious and inviting, the room’s white silk carpet and white vaulted ceilings contrast beautifully with the sky-blue walls.

During the warm summer months, the family can relax on the adjoining third-story patio, while during the chill of winter the children can hunker down on beanbag chairs lining the room’s dormer windows.

Best of all, Trademark designed this room with an eye to the future.

By including plumbing rough-ins, this

room can easily be converted into a media room and wet bar — enabling the house to keep pace with the family’s changing needs.

Trademark hopes that this project will inspire other homeowners to get creative about what they envision for their own homes. With more than 30 years’ experience in building and renovating Calgary’s luxury custom homes, Trademark Renovations is ready to help homeowners bring their unique vision to life — whether that’s modernizing a beloved older house or fine-tuning a dream home.

“It’s why people come back to us time and time again,” says

Blair Foisy, owner and founder of Trademark Renovations. “We do all styles of fully customized renovations, from traditional to contemporary, or building that luxury dream home. To put it simply, we love what we do.”

Visit trademarkrenovations.com or call 403-277-5600 today to see what Trademark Renovations can do for your home.

CUSTOM RENOVATIONS & SPECIAL PROJECTS 27

Setting New Standards in Home Improvement

www.trademarkrenovations.com

403-277-5600

OUTDOOR LIVING JUNE – JULY 2014

TIPS AND TRICKS FOR

outdoor

living

Photo courtesy of Wicker Land Patio

OUTDOORLIVING

Beautifying

interior and exterior CONCRETE SURFACES

by BAILEY KOMARIC

I

n today’s market, many are looking for a quick fix to their cracked concrete driveways, updating their rundown kitchen countertops, or unfinished basement floors.

SureCrete Design Products will add value and curb appeal to your home.

Hard Rock Developments is proud to be Calgary’s onestop solution that offers the latest technology in concrete restoration, beautification as well as metallic’s and epoxy coatings. As the only supplier of SureCrete Design Products in Western Canada, Hard Rock Developments not only supplies but educates for commercial and residential contractors and for the Do-It-Yourselfers.

For many contractors and Do-It-Yourselfer’s, decorative concrete countertops have been considered a difficult choice.

The reason has to do with the time it takes to create the piece, knowledge needed to properly form, pour and reinforce the concrete mix and how to seal and protect their creation. Xtreme PreCast Mix is a dual component precast concrete bag mix that greatly reduces the materials and labor required to construct a traditional concrete countertop and it forms up within 4-6 hours. With the wide range of coloring (30+) and texture selections along with the addition of aggregate loading, design considerations are nearly limitless.

With vast versatility it allows for the fabrication of precast Concrete Counter Tops, fireplaces, shower surrounds, wall panels, furniture and architectural elements. Xtreme Precast combines the most advanced chemical technology with modern fiber advancements, to create an unparalleled precast concrete mix design. This technology binds the raw materials of cement and sand with other proprietary ingredients into a stronger, denser and more flexible cementitious composite not requiring the use of steel reinforcements.

If your goal is to bring life back to your outdoor concrete slabs or remodel your garage floor. SureCrete has a system for you and your design. After cleaning and profiling your existing concrete with SureCrete’s Eco-Friendly products there are 4 different overlay systems that are user friendly allowing your concrete to look “new again”. Almost all of SureCrete’s over-layments are single component (just add water.) All of the over-lays are designed for beautifying both interior and exterior concrete surfaces. You can create a number of different textures that can resemble a whole array of designs: stucco, tile, cute stone, slate, brick, cobblestone etc. Concrete restoration repair, resurfacing, architectural accent and surface protection, all of the products have zero

38 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS JUN - JUL 2014

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OUTDOORLIVING

TAKING A SELFPROCLAIMED “TIME-OUT’’ FOR BEAUTY AND PEACE:

Creating an outdoor breakfast nook

by JACKIE SWARTZ

HOW WONDERFUL TO SHED LAYERS OF WINTER CLOTHES

and feel fresh and free in the outdoors. This is one of my favourite times of year where the streets fill with dog walkers and fair weather sports enthusiasts. What better way to enjoy the gifts of nature’s cacophony than to design your very own outdoor breakfast nook. This way you sit at the heart of listening to birdsong mixed with children’s laughter. Like the etymology of the word breakfast... it’s time to break the fast of evening sleep and welcome in the morning sun. Imagine all of this in your very own backyard oasis. I will help you design an inviting breakfast nook where you can sit drinking in the aroma of your fresh brewed coffee while indulging in the fragrant air of lilacs and hyacinths. This is outdoor living at its finest.

First, you must plan the space that affords the most warmth and natural light... After you peruse the parameters of the house choose wisely for privacy, rising sun, and the necessity of tranquility. Once you have found your fantastic place you will need a perfect seat. This sets the benchmark rather high so to speak, but seriously a comfortable chair can make or break 40 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS JUN - JUL 2014

a breakfast nook. I find metal chairs to be hard and uncomfortable. Resin furniture is also nice looking, reasonably priced, and can be kept outside in all the elements. I personally like teak furniture.

It looks warm and friendly; however, teak also can be hard to sit on. I suggest adding memory foam cushions to the teak chairs.

Cushions are essential if you want to sit outside longer than a half hour.

If you have outdoor cushions, you are committed to moving them every time it threatens for heavy rain in the forecast.

Deck boxes are a fantastic way to store your cushions and you can buy them as small or large as you need them to be. Many places sell waterproof fabric cushions. I like using colourful cushions because it looks so cheerful like large open blossoms on outdoor furniture.

A well-built table is a must have.

Even in limited space a small table is needed to set your coffee, phone, iPad and newspaper on. If your area has uneven ground you can use small wood shims to level your table. For larger seating areas you can get tables in any shape or size. I like to accent my table by placing a pot of herbs in the middle so I can smell the fresh scents. If you prefer to upcycle then consider buying a used table from the local thrift store where you will find all kind of treasures to alter.

Shade is important to consider especially if your breakfast nook receives

YOUR BREAKFAST NOOK IS A TOTAL SENSORY EXPERIENCE WHERE ANYONE IN THE FAMILY CAN TAKE A SELF-PROCLAIMED “TIME OUT” TO DO SOME RELAXING AND GAIN SOME QUIETUDE. BEAUTY AND PEACE ARE FOUND IN YOUR OWN BACKYARD.

sun until early afternoon. Umbrellas are ideal and will protect you from all weather elements. Umbrellas come in all shapes, sizes, and colours. You can even match them to your cushions. If you want something more permanent, pergolas are like lawn sculptures that add beauty and protection. I suggest building one out of cedar or treated wood. Pergolas can be free-standing or be built attached to your house.

Privacy is very important if you want tranquillity when reading the morning news.

There are a myriad of ways to help you create privacy around your breakfast nook.

One way that works is simply planting shrubs to grow around your chosen area.

Another idea to consider is building a cedar privacy screen or perhaps constructing a small four feet tall cedar fence. Tall perennial flowers can be used, but they will take a while to mature to the right size every year. Upright Junipers can be planted around your breakfast nook. Also, you can buy inexpensive upright cedars and plant them into pots. Then you can place the potted cedars around your area at whim.

Another suggestion is to add a decorative stone wall to surround your breakfast nook. This will create a lovely environment that is inviting to everyone.

Ambiance is a necessary component for creating a relaxing atmosphere. I call ambiance the final spice that adds that special flare. You can achieve this by adding colour, light, sound, and texture. Colour can be achieved by simply using coloured cushions. It can also be achieved from shrubs and flowers. If you are displaying potted plants you can paint your pots any colour in the rainbow and even be brave to do some multi-coloured ones too. If you want to enjoy yourself in the nook at night you might add some glow in the dark paint on them as well. Or add solar lights between the pots.

I like using my breakfast nook in the evening as well, however, it can get too dark to read. Low voltage lighting, string lighting and candles may also be added to your outdoor sanctuary. There is a wide variety of string lighting including novelty lights to match your personality.

Also, candle lanterns add a lovely touch.

Sound is important to me especially if you have traffic pollution nearby.

Purchasing a small fountain can easily drown the irritating noise of vehicles.

Texture can be accomplished by the use of plants, furniture materials and patio materials. Think of your nook as a work of art because when completed it will be just that.

Your breakfast nook is a total sensory experience where anyone in the family can take a self-proclaimed “time out” to do some relaxing and gain some quietude. Beauty and peace are found in your own backyard. After completing your Breakfast nook you simply sit and enjoy the view with your brew!

Breathing in the clarity of the clear blue sky and knowing that there is no nook like your nook. Have fun!

JACKIE SWARTZ Jackie Swartz has a Horticulture Degree from Olds College. She is a Professional Landscape Designer and Consultant. Jackie will do your design right at your home.

Average design time is 2-4 hrs, remarkable, but true! To contact Jackie, you can call her at 403-472-5082 or email her at wildstrawberrygardens@gmail.com.

JUN - JUL 2014 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 41

OUTDOORLIVING

CREATING OUTDOOR LIVING SPACES,

just for you!

by BONNY DANN / ESCAPES INC. TO CREATE THE PERFECT OUTDOOR

living spaces just for you, three main components are involved: Lifestyle, Functionality and Design.

The first thing I recommend is to think about your lifestyle and how you want to use your outdoor living spaces.

Once we have determined whether you want outdoor entertaining areas for lounging , dining, a spa area, kitchen or play area for your children we should head inside. Indoors we can determine which outdoor living space you wish to view from each window and access from each entrance. Depending on your lifestyle and family situation you may wish to be able to keep an eye on your children while you are in your living room or kitchen. Or you may prefer to view a beautiful garden or meditative 42 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS JUN - JUL 2014

JUN - JUL 2014 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 43

OUTDOORLIVING

HAVING AN ENTERTAINING PATIO OFF YOUR FAMILY ROOM OR LIVING ROOM ALLOWS GUESTS TO MINGLE BETWEEN THE TWO AREAS AT LARGER GATHERINGS.

area from your home office. These choices are all personal and the types of outdoor living spaces we can create seems endless! Outdoor kitchens and dining areas for those that love to cook are as fully equipped as your indoor kitchen if you wish! Outdoor living rooms or family rooms for when you are not dining or after dining with friends or family.

Outdoor spas, meditative or relaxation areas for those of us that need to unwind! Play areas for small children or putting greens and tennis courts for adults and older children. No matter what your lifestyle entails, we can create an outdoor living space to fit you perfectly!

When planning where to put whatever type of outdoor escape you have chosen we have to remember to keep functionality and flow in mind. We want the gardens or outdoor rooms to flow from inside out and vice versa.

Locating outdoor kitchens or grilling stations off the interior kitchen, for instance, creates ease of flow for the cook, especially if your outdoor kitchen is not fully equipped, which so many are not because of our climate. Having an entertaining patio off your family room or living room allows guests to mingle between the two areas at larger gatherings.

I have a fairly small family room off my kitchen but have double French doors leading to a good sized patio with outdoor living room furniture and the ease and flow for guests is fantastic. As well the view from the French doors is very pretty with gardens and a water feature on the other

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side of the patio. If you have a newer style home or infill, which is narrower with only one rear exit, we often use in line both a deck and patio with the cooking and dining area, kitchen garden in pots, on the deck leading down to the entertaining area. With wider lots and homes they can still flow one from the other or be completely separated.

Creating the right flow maximizes the beauty of any outdoor living space.

When designing gardens or outdoor living spaces I like to make sure they match the architecture of your home to create the most aesthetically pleasing look in the back and

side areas and the most curb appeal in the front! Some styles will over lap at least to some degree. For instance contemporary gardens and formal gardens share similar elements such as simplicity, less colour as do xeriscaped, desert style gardens and zen gardens. They also all use gravels or pea stone. Vegetable gardens can be incorporated into any style of garden as can children‘s gardens and fruit bearing trees and shrubs. Another important element in aesthetics and flow, as well, as design, is to use the same materials indoors and out. If that is not possible because ot our harsh Canadian winters and you have to change to a different product, match the colours as closely as possible.

As long as it is from the same palette, the shade can be slightly darker or lighter. Remember to check your colours in various light situations to make sure they compliment each other in both bright sunlight and artificial light. Adding lighting and water features to your design is always a bonus, as the lighting extends the usage, as do fireplaces or heaters, and water helps disguise traffic and other noises.

With your dreams, desires and our ideas, whether you do it all this year or create it over the next few years, you will have successful outdoor living spaces created, just for you!

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FEATURE

Take back the

GARAGE!

by ADENE LUCAS

SPRING IS A TIME TO DE CLUTTER AND GET ORGANIZED, RENEWED AND REFRESHED. Normally, a big household purge happens first, then cleaning all the

nooks and crannies and the home is ready to go. However, if you can’t bear to part with household items you have collected during the purge, they typically end up in the garage. Now the house looks great but you’re left to squeeze in and out of your vehicle, or worse you can’t even park in the garage.

It’s time to focus on the big target, that’s so easy to avoid because no one really sees it -the garage. Generally a spot reserved for vehicles, outdoor tools and sporting equipment. It now stores everything that doesn’t fit in the house or outdoor shed. Turning a garage from a cluttered waste land to a useable space is a weekend project if you use your time wisely and follow these key tips.

46 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS JUN - JUL 2014

Start by clearing everything out of the garage and taking inventory of what you have. If you forgot you owned it, you don’t need it. For example I have a smoker sitting on a shelf that has more dust layered on it than the actual box. I keep thinking one day I will make a carcinogenic meal for my family and yet there sits the smoker year after year untouched. If you have an assortment of items that

RECYCLING BINS, REFUSE CONTAINERS, SHOPPING BAGS SHOULD ALL HAVE EASY ACCESS AS THEY ARE USED FREQUENTLY. GARDENING TOOLS, SPORTING EQUIPMENT, AND AUTOMOTIVE SUPPLIES SHOULD BE KEPT TOGETHER IN THEIR SEPARATE CATEGORIES.

you never use, forgot you had, have duplicates of, or bought impulsively, it’s time to part ways and make room for more pressing items like a car.

There are lots of charities, families in need or friends and neighbors that could use what you’re not.

Think about how you operate in the garage and store items that are frequently used, like shovels in this city, in a spot where they are reachable. Seasonal holiday items, like Christmas or Halloween decorations can be boxed, labeled and placed on appropriate shelving out of reach and out of the way. I like to color code my storage boxes for easy retrieval. Using big bins in red for Christmas, orange for Halloween and clear for sporting goods makes finding things a lot easier for you and those that you share a garage with.

Recycling bins, refuse containers, shopping bags should all have easy access as they are used frequently.

Gardening tools, sporting equipment, and automotive supplies should be kept together in their separate categories. For example if you have soccer balls, tennis rackets, and baseball items keep them all in a sealed container labeled sports. For larger items like ski equipment you can purchase wall mounted systems to store them. Bicycles can be kept on a wall bracket or even a pulley system for quick access without taking up floor space. Some items like ski boots or golf clubs can be stored inside the house because of the dust factor.

Another solution is cabinets as they prevent the daily dust from covering your items but they are not airtight.

Open storage is great because it’s accessible, but closed storage can house unsightly items and keep things looking neater. A combination of both

JUN - JUL 2014 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 47

is ideal along with a work bench of some sort and a counter top for projects that are too messy for the indoors.

Just like a home, consider using vertical space. Look up, add shelves along the upper portion of the wall and consider installing brackets. Peg boards are timeless for a reason, they work, and they are affordable and easy to hang. They are great for tools and equipment that are used frequently. If the walls are high enough, loft storage can be added along the ceiling for larger light weight items. Suspended shelving just above the garage door provides out of the way storage without the expense of a garage overhaul.

If your garage is attached to the home it’s wise to have shoe storage, coat hooks and a bench for changing shoes to keep the entranceway of the home under control. Kind of reminds me of Mr. Rogers, he was 48 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS JUN - JUL 2014

IF YOUR GARAGE IS ATTACHED TO THE HOME IT’S WISE TO HAVE SHOE STORAGE, COAT HOOKS AND A BENCH FOR CHANGING SHOES TO KEEP THE ENTRANCEWAY OF THE HOME UNDER CONTROL. KIND OF REMINDS ME OF MR. ROGERS, HE WAS ON TO SOMETHING ALWAYS CHANGING WHEN HE ARRIVED HOME.

JUN - JUL 2014 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 49

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on to something always changing when he arrived home.

As for keeping the garage tidy now that it is organized you may want to think about the flooring. You can commit to sweeping it throughout the season or having a flooring system put in. An epoxy coating is great option because it adheres to the concrete and protects the floor from oil, grease, animal urine, dirt and other unpleasant stains. If you are handy, this can be a do it yourself project. Another option is large rubber floor mats that are sold just for garages.

Or rubberized interlocking flooring works well in a garage. There are a few great companies in Calgary that specialize in outfitting garages if all of this seems just too much to handle. First things first, I’m going to rid myself of the smoker and make room for… something else!

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FEATURE

Q&A

DESIGN 101 WITH SARAH RICHARDSON

by SALINA YARA HALABI

SARAH RICHARDSON HAS MADE her mark in the design world – to say the least! With a resume of hit shows, including Sarah 101, Sarah’s House, and Real Potential, this design darling has shown us that even the most unsalvageable looking spaces can be transformed into something beautiful.

Sarah took some time away from her busy schedule to solve some interior design dilemmas and provide us with her oh-so-coveted advice.

Q What is your favourite 2014 spring trend and what are a few ways to incorporate it into a home’s interior?

Irregular faceted shapes are very popular right now. I’m seeing them in a variety of accessories, from table lamps to candles and vases, bowls and even just decorative objects.

Gold continues to be a big inspiration in both fashion and home so the combination of these faceted shapes and gilded finishes allows you to add a hit of lustre and a metallic finish to any room with ease. Add it to your mantel in a grouping, down the centre of your dining table (as votives), or as a grouping on the coffee table.

52 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS JUN - JUL 2014

Q Many homes now feature hardwood and tiled flooring in living spaces. What are the do’s and don’ts for choosing the perfect area rug?

As a general rule when placing furniture, make sure the front legs of your furniture are sitting on the carpet by at least 6”. If your carpet sits in the middle of the room and all furniture sits around it, the carpet will look like an island (or a postage stamp). I find 6’ x 9’ carpets are almost always too small for any room, unless you are using it in a foyer.

To measure the ideal size, leave a perimeter all around the room of about 14” and you’ll be left with the right sized carpet. It’s better to buy

PHOTO BY STACEY BRANDFORD

53

Avoid buying a suite — it doesn’t have any personality. Choose complimentary elements that have a similar proportion but a different profile, and you’ll be able to create a unified grouping. the right sized carpet from an affordable source, rather than buy a pricey one that is too small.

Q For many colour is a scary thing, leaving them to go with neutral, and sometimes less exciting, tones. How do you decide which colour(s) work best in a space and how much colour to inject?

No matter how much you love colour, using it everywhere is just too much. I always advise starting with a foundation of neutrals for all the big pieces (such as sofas and chairs), and then sprinkle in colour as desired. Pillows, artwork, accessories, and even carpets can be brought home and tested in place before making a big commitment, so you can experiment and decide what your colour comfort level is. Focus on which pieces will create impact, and leave some breathing areas where the eye can rest - it shouldn’t be a visual assault.

Q Open concept living spaces have the benefit of providing a modern and spacious environment; however, it can be challenging to split a space into multiple living areas. What are some inventive ways to create space partitions?

Instead of creating partitions, I’d recommend delineating zones within the room. The reason for buying an open concept space is to be able to benefit from long sight lines and large areas. If you have a large room, don’t feel that you can only do a single seating area. Break the room up and create distinct zones tailored to specific activities, and keep all seating tight enough together that you can have a conversation - if everything is pushed to the outer corners, you’ll have to yell to have a conversation.

Q Shopping for new living/family room seating often leaves individuals choosing a set of matching sofas and chairs. What are some tips to mixing and matching pieces to create a unique and personalized living room set?

54 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS JUN - JUL 2014

Avoid buying a suite - it doesn’t have any personality.

Choose complimentary elements that have a similar proportion but a different profile, and you’ll be able to create a unified grouping. Also think about what each area is best suited to - of course, you’ll want the sofa to be deep and comfortable if you’re kicking back and watching a movie, but do all the pieces need to serve the same purpose, or can some of the chairs be more sculptural and tailored (and perhaps suited to enjoying the fire, or being used by guests).

Q Family pictures are a great way to add a personal touch to a space. What are your favourite off-the-mantle ways to showcase a collection of photos?

Photos are best when hung on a wall so you can get up close and really look at them. I think upper hallways and stairwells, or large basement walls are ideally suited to a collection of family photos installed as a gallery wall.

They are personal photos and work best when hung in your personal space instead of in the principal rooms. You just can’t go wrong with buying a collection of frames in the same finish in varying sizes. Try to find an option with ready cut mats so your photos will have a professional look when done. And hang them all with even spacing in between for a low cost/high impact install.

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FEATURE

Setting the

OUTDOOR STAGE

by LAURA LE

56 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS JUN - JUL 2014

“CURB APPEAL� IS WHAT REALTORS AND STAGERS refer

to when describing the exterior of the property. In order to achieve this type of appeal there are several very practical but often overlooked chores that must be completed.

Stand at the front of the property, best from the other side of the street because from there you can see the entire frontage usually. Look at each section of the yard objectively.

Perhaps invite a friend that will be very honest with you, then be prepared for their honesty because sometimes it is hard to hear.

Begin at the edge of the yard, is everything clean and neat? Does the grass need to be edged? Are there dead patches of grass that need seed? Is the sidewalk in great shape with minimal cracks, heaving or broken bits? All of these things should be addressed if possible. How do the flower beds look? In the summer they need to be neat and weed free. In the spring and fall they need to look tidy and free of dead and nearly dead plants.

HAVING A LITTLE SEATING AREA NEAR THE FRONT DOOR IS VERY NICE AS LONG AS IT DOES NOT CROWD THE DOORSTEP.

Flower pots are fantastic as long as they are thriving and the pots are a good size. Having one large scale pot is preferable to several small pots that often just look cluttered and busy. The large pots provide a lot of impact and often it just takes one. In the winter please don’t put silk or plastic plants on the front door step. If the real plant would not actually make it through an hour of below zero temperatures they just look ridiculous. The plastic cedar trees look fabulous but adding silk ivy around the bottom does not make sense. And, don’t leave silk trees out on the deck because you don’t want them inside anymore either, you are not fooling anyone.

Limit the seasonal decorations as well if you are selling. I know the kids love the giant inflatable snow globes, etc in the front yard but it can be too much if there are five or six of these colourful, glowing contraptions. Same principal applies to the Christmas lights; remove the lights the first warm day in early spring. There is nothing more depressing than driving by a house in June that has those dangling icicles hanging there.

We have now made it to the front door. Many people like to have a wreath hanging on the door. Often these wreathes are lovely but just be careful they are the right size for the door. Too JUN - JUL 2014 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 57

small is never good and the seasonal paragraph from above also applies here. If Easter is over so is the pastel coloured egg wreath.

Having a little seating area near the front door is very nice as long as it does not crowd the doorstep. This is where the tiny pots and the frogs in various leisurely positions can also be a problem as they are a tripping hazard as well as just making the space look cluttered.

Let’s visit the backyard now…this area needs to invite the potential buyer to imagine themselves having a relaxing evening with friends and a beverage or two. The flower beds and grass back here need to be well-tended just like in the front. If there is snow on the ground it needs to be cleared so the potential buyer can wander the yard and visit the garage if it is back there. The backyard can be as important as the interior of the property as far as wanting to encourage the interested buyer to linger.

Staging both the inside and the outside of a property is all about creating a “feeling”. A professional stager’s job is all about getting the potential buyer to wish to remain in your property…maybe sit down in a deck chair and enjoy a moment in the sun.

58 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS JUN - JUL 2014

STAGING BOTH THE INSIDE AND THE OUTSIDE OF A PROPERTY IS ALL ABOUT CREATING A “FEELING”.

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

TIPSANDTRICKS

IN

seasons, spaces BETWEEN IN

BETWEEN

by YANIC SIMARD photos by TED YARWOOD

SUMMER IS COMING! EVEN IF SOMETIMES IT DOESN’T SEEM to be arriving fast enough, the warm weather is slowly setting in outside - it’s only natural to want to enjoy this sunny feeling indoors as well. Apply my design tips, and you can to start to enjoy the great outdoors immediately!

BRANCH OUT » Florals have become a huge returned trend, updated from the overly fussy patterns we associate with granny’s curtains, to become contemporary, organic touches of natural beauty. In this dining room space, I used an elegant, leafy wallpaper to draw a connection to the outdoors, and then continued it into the kitchen to visually link the two rooms as well. For a similar effect try Graham & Brown’s “Claire” or “Harem Tulips” prints (above) visit their site at grahambrown.com » Did you know that wallpaper can make a beautiful backsplash? By itself of course it’s a little impractical, but adding simple glass panels over top gives an easily cleaned surface while letting the paper shine through. This way, you can use one favourite print throughout, or choose a special accent to create a unique backsplash feature.

JUN - JUL 2014 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 59

KEEP YOUR OPTIONS OPEN

BLUR THE LINES

» Sometimes the best way to introduce fresh, fun colour in a space is to start with none at all – keeping your fixed elements neutral gives you a flexible backdrop for ever-changing accents to suit your moods. You’ll see however that doesn’t mean I let these spaces be boring: introducing variety through patterns, textures, and different materials (such as the wood table and clear plastic chairs) gives even a neutral palette lots of depth and visual interest year round.

» I love pieces that can work indoors and out, such as the classic Bertoia dining chair in this eat-in kitchen (left). The open metal frame makes a mid-century statement inside, but is totally practical outdoors, so it can be moved to wherever you want extra seating. Other pieces such as ceramic garden stools, stone topped bistro tables, or these clear plastic stackable chairs provide equal flexibility – consider investing in these even in the colder months and love them all year round.

» Once you have this beautiful neutral canvas, introduce colour through accessories. Live plants add a friendly infusion of green to liven up your dining table or countertop. Removing the doors from a standard cupboard creates an open shelving display for colourful dishes and glassware - just keep the doors stashed away for later. Add a few beautiful books or an oversized vase, and suddenly you’ve got a whole colour scheme you can switch up at any time.

» Whether you have a wall full of windows around a patio door or a small sliver of glass, keep the view as open as possible by hanging a simple sheer over top. By draping the full wall you help blur the line between the walls and windows, making the warm light the focus, and preserving the sightlines while also maintaining your privacy. Place the rod just below the ceiling and run the fabric to just above the ground, for a clean, contemporary effect.

60 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS JUN - JUL 2014

FLORALS HAVE BECOME A HUGE RETURNED TREND, UPDATED FROM THE OVERLY FUSSY PATTERNS WE ASSOCIATE WITH GRANNY’S CURTAINS, TO BECOME CONTEMPORARY, ORGANIC TOUCHES OF NATURAL BEAUTY. SING THE BLUES » I chose a fresh blue hue to accent this space (left), which turned out to be a huge 2014 trend ahead of its time! This goes to show the importance of choosing a shade which speaks to you and to the space – you’ll still love it later even as trends come and go. However, if you do want to add a similar colour, try Benjamin Moore’s #806 Breath of Fresh Air (either for walls or a reference for accents), and pair it with either my favourite fresh white (#2121-70 Chantilly Lace) or my go-to neutral (#OC-23 Classic Gray). » Blue and green (which is half blue) are both natural hues that we are used to seeing in the world in a tone-on-tone effect, so they make great near-neutrals and work especially well when combined in multiple shades. This makes it especially easy to slowly add up an accessory collection over time (as you happen across different stores) without wondering about whether pieces will “match” - if you stick to the blues, you won’t have a worry in the world.

YANIC SIMARD Yanic is the principal designer of Toronto Interior Design Group.

Specializing in residential and commercial projects, Yanic often applies his signature high/low and old/new combination techniques in developing his unique designs. He has created designs for clients in Toronto, Montreal and Miami, and appears as a regular guest expert on Citytv’s CityLine. Visit tidg.ca for more information. Follow: facebook.com/yanic.simard and twitter.com/yanicsimard

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TIPSANDTRICKS

DON’T JUST SPRING CLEAN,

get ORGANIZED

by HELLEN BUTTIGIEG

SPRING HAS FINALLY ARRIVED

and you may feel the urge to purge! When it comes to cleaning and getting organized, it’s usually not a matter of needing more storage space, it’s about needing better storage, as well as organization that works for you. It’s also about having a good plan, which includes getting rid of things you don’t need. So get into those storage spaces, drawers and corners, give everything the good old spring clean and get organized, permanently.

IF YOU CAN’T QUITE BRING YOURSELF TO LET GO OF CERTAIN ITEMS, EVEN THOUGH YOU AREN’T USING THEM, CONSIDER PACKING THEM IN A BOX AND WRITING A “BEST BEFORE” DATE ON IT SIX MONTHS AWAY. 62 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS JUN - JUL 2014

10 START BY MAKING ROOM FOR SPRING. It’s that wonderful time of year again when we can put away the winter gear and lighten the load. Although there’s never enough storage, there are creative ways to better utilize existing spaces for storing out-of-season items. Here are some ideas to consider: add another shelf above the existing one in all the closets, and purchase under-the-bed organizers. If your bed is not high enough, you can get a bed riser to lift it. Consider creating a document on your computer that serves as an index to outline where you’ve stored what. When winter returns, you won’t have to rely on your memory to find what you need.

NAME THAT ROOM. Rooms that don’t have a specific purpose often become dumping grounds for clutter. Before you begin de-cluttering, go through your home, room by room, and determine how you want to use each space. Identify which items support the purpose of the room and which ones should be moved elsewhere.

THINGS YOU CAN DO (TO GET MORE ORGANIZED) IN FIVE MINUTES OR LESS.

»

Clean out your wallet/purse: toss gum wrappers, scraps of paper and old tissues; file receipts and business cards.

»

Toss out any spoiled food from the refrigerator.

»

Toss out any stale food from the pantry.

»

Take excess shoes out of the hall closet or front hall and place them in the bedroom closets. Each family member should only keep one or two pairs of shoes (depending on space) by the door or hall closet.

»

Sort through three to five file folders and shred what you don’t need. Keep a coloured folder upright in your filing cabinet to mark where you leave off.

»

Go through your collection of coupons and toss the expired ones. Put the others in your purse or glove compartment of your car and use them next time you go shopping.

»

Clear out one ‘junk drawer’ and toss anything you don’t need or recognize. Divide the drawer by using old cheque book boxes or small plastic containers to keep similar items together.

»

Go through your sock drawer and give up any socks without partners. If you haven’t worn panty hose since 2008, it’s time to toss those too!

»

Gather all the wire hangers in your closet and put them in your car. Next time you go to the dry-cleaners, you can take them in for recycling.

»

Scan the emails in your junk folder (to make sure nothing important ended up there) and then delete them.

GO FOR THE “NO-BRAINERS” Toss old newspapers, things that are broken or have missing parts and clothing items that are permanently stained or damaged.

JUMP-START YOUR SPRING CLEANING WITH BABY STEPS. If you don’t know where to begin, start small. Pick just one room. Moving clockwise, remove anything that doesn’t belong in that room and place it in a “move elsewhere” box to deliver to the room it should live in. Pull out anything that doesn’t give you joy or value and place it in a “give away” box. Designate this room as a “no-clutter zone” so you will always have a sanctuary to escape to as you tackle the next room.

KEEP THE MOMENTUM GOING WITH A “BEST BEFORE” BOX. If you can’t quite bring yourself to let go of certain items, even though you aren’t using them, consider packing them in a box and writing a “best before” date on it six months away. Put this date on your calendar as a reminder. If you don’t go into that box again before the expiry date, donate it to charity without opening it again. This provides you with a cooling-off period, making it easier to detach.

SMART STORAGE You’ve probably heard the term ‘a place for everything and everything in its place’. This is so true, but it’s only part of the solution. The second half of this wisdom is to keep things in a logical position. For example, keep keys by the exit door, coffee and filters in the cupboard above the coffee maker, and magazines in a basket beside the chair where you do most of your reading. Not only will this make it easier to find what you need quickly, it will also cut down on steps and save you time. When trying to find a home for something, instead of asking ‘where should I put it’, ask ‘where would I use it’.

EMPTY SPACES RESULT IN SMILING FACES When reorganizing a closet, a dresser or a cupboard, empty it out first. It’s motivating to see the space empty and this will give you immediate gratification. You are also likely to sort through the contents more thoroughly. However, when organizing a large area, empty only a section at a time, sort it and then move on to the next section.

THE GIVEAWAY BOX Keep a “giveaway” box in or near your closet. Any time you try on clothing that you don’t feel comfortable in or that you don’t look fabulous wearing, drop it in the box. Do the same for items that you discover you no longer like or need. Once the box is full, put it in your vehicle and deliver it to the nearest donation depot or thrift shop. This is what I call painless purging!

JUN - JUL 2014 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 63

TIPSANDTRICKS

ONLY ONCE THE PAPERS ARE SEPARATED SHOULD YOU THEN BEGIN SHREDDING, FILING AND CREATING A LIST OF ACTION STEPS THAT STEM FROM THE PAPERWORK YOU SORT. CLEAN OUT THE GARAGE If your garage is cluttered, it’s a good time to tackle it. Empty out the entire garage, or work in sections (depending on the amount of clutter and the amount of time you have to clear it). Place like items together in categories: car care, tools, sporting, gardening etc. Create a pile for things you no longer need or want. Heavy duty shelving units and clear bins work great for storing these items within their categories – don’t forget to label. Brackets and hooks work for large items like ladders and bikes. Don’t forget to take the discarded items to the dump if they cannot be sold or donated, and enjoy the satisfaction that comes from a garage you can actually park your car in!

PAPER PILES GOT YOU OVERWHELMED? SEPARATE BEFORE YOU ORGANIZE. When sorting through piles of paperwork, there is a tendency to skip a step, and this can lead to feelings of overwhelm and stop the process before any progress is made. Before attempting to organize your papers, you need to separate them. Label 4 piles/bins/boxes/trays: 1. Shred, 2. Action, 3. File, and 4.

Recycle. Do not try to organize at this time – just separate. Only once the papers are separated should you then begin shredding, filing and creating a list of action steps that stem from the paperwork you sort.

LET GO OF ‘OBLIGATION CLUTTER’ ‘Obligation clutter’ refers to the stuff we are holding on to because we feel a sense of duty. It can be gifts we’ve received, heirlooms we’ve inherited, or things we are saving for our kids. If you are holding on to any of these types of things, I’m giving you permission to let them go, and here’s why: You have no duty to keep gifts forever. The last thing the giftgiver would want is for their gift to be a burden. If a gift you gave were unused, wouldn’t you be happier if it were donated, so someone else could enjoy it?

MEMORABILIA WITHOUT MESS If you have bits and pieces of memorabilia piling up all over your home, it’s time to create a memory box. Purchase or repurpose one container for each family member.

Choose plastic bins, photo boxes, hat boxes, vintage suitcases or oldfashioned picnic baskets to store precious mementos. Be selective about what goes inside, and when the containers are full, remove one item before putting another item inside.

HELLEN BUTTIGIEG Hellen Buttigieg is a Certified Professional Organizer, Life Coach, TV Personality, Author and Speaker. Her Oakville based company, We Organize U, helps busy families clear their clutter and create a more relaxed home, a more productive workspace, and a more manageable, meaningful life. Get your FREE copy of Hellen’s e-Book, 7 Habits That Rob You of Your Time, Energy and Inner Peace, at weorganizeu.com.

64

CELEBRITYINTERVIEW

HOUSE of BRYAN’S

Bryan and Sarah Baeumler

by DIANE DUFLOT

by DIANE DUFLOT

I RECENTLY SAT

down with Bryan and Sarah Baeumler, of HGTV’s House of Bryan, to discuss their third season of the show — and their experience during a third renovation as a family, this time in the country. They had some great advice on how to weather the storms of a major renovation.

HDR: What does the next season of House of Bryan have in store?

BB: It’s going to be a crazy season. We moved to the country, into an older home with a terrible layout for a family with three kids – then we brought home a fourth!

You’ll see a great adventure, along with the trials and tribulations (and there have been a lot of them) that come along with moving your family out of a custom built home in the suburbs, to a forest in the middle of nowhere. Not only are we putting on an addition, but we’re also living in the adjoining house the entire time — something I never recommend, which means I’ve discarded my own advice. It’s been a challenge but it’s going to be a great show.

HDR: Can you explain what prompted your decision to move to the country?

SB: It’s always been something that we’ve talked about but never very seriously.

It was definitely an impulse purchase. We took the scenic route home one day and saw a for sale sign. I think two weeks later it was ours!

JUN - JUL 2014 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 65

RENOVATING OR BUILDING IS A FLUID PROCESS, AND YOU HAVE TO ROLL WITH THE PUNCHES. IF YOU’RE MANAGING THE JOB PROPERLY, THERE WILL ALWAYS BE GOOD SURPRISES TO BALANCE OUT THE BAD. HDR: I’d love to hear from you about your decision to live in your new country home for the third installation of the House of Bryan panned out. What challenges did that present? Would you ever do that again?

BB: I think the decision to live through a renovation has to be made very carefully, there are a lot of factors to consider.

My goal initially was to (for the most part) avoid encroaching into the existing house at all until the addition was completed — but that hasn’t exactly happened! Our current living space gets smaller week by week. It’s tight, but there’s an end in sight so we’re managing. You really have to watch the show to see all the details — but let’s just say it’s not always a walk in the park!

HDR: It’s often said that a renovation puts a lot of stress on a marriage. What are your tips on minimizing this stress and emerging from a renovation as happy a couple (or happier!) than you entered it?

SB: It’s true, there is a lot of stress. You are spending a lot of money, and making a lot of decisions very quickly. Anyone that thinks they can go through a major renovation or build together and not have a few good fights has their head in the clouds. You definitely have to pick your battles, at the end of the day, if building a house together ends your relationship, you probably didn’t need the house to begin with!

66 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS JUN - JUL 2014

HDR: How do you handle the unexpected that almost invariably arises over the course of a renovation/ build?

BB: I’m never surprised, you have to expect the unexpected, and just deal with any changes or problems that arise. Renovating or building is a fluid process, and you have to roll with the punches. If you’re managing the job properly, there will always be good surprises to balance out the bad. The key is to keep the destination in relative focus, while paying close attention to every twist and turn the journey throws at you.

HDR: Has being on the opposite side of a build/ renovation changed your perspective on clients’ renovations?

BB: Not at all — I’ve always demanded the same attention to detail for my clients as I do for myself. I think being in the middle of my own build/reno keeps the needs and concerns of my clients very fresh, and in the forefront of my mind. There’s nothing like being immersed in your work!

HDR: Bryan, can you offer our readers any tips on hiring a contractor?

BB: Yes — go to baeumlerapproved.com! You’re either going to find a good guy there, or if none are listed in your area, there are some great tips on finding the right contractor.

The key is to make sure they have all of their important stuff: license, insurance, WSIB, experience, lots of good homeowner and trade references etc., but the most important part is the communication and trust between the homeowner and contractor. People have to use their common sense: don’t hire the first guy that’s available, make sure you have a contract, don’t pay too much up front, don’t pay for things that haven’t been completed, don’t micromanage and, above all, realize that you get what you pay for, in most cases. The sad thing is that we’ve all been saying this stuff for years, and everyone knows it, but someone reading this right now will go out and hire the first unlicensed, uninsured, lowest priced guy they meet that will take cash with no contract to save a few bucks, and a few months from now they’ll be singing the blues about being taken advantage of by a contractor.

TIPSANDTRICKS

SHELL BUSEY: ASK A PRO

Keep your stucco looking its best

by SHELL BUSEY STUCCO IS ONE OF THE MOST COMMON EXTERIOR FINISHES USED IN BOTH

commercial and residential applications. Stucco has been used for decades by contractors, due to its cost effectiveness, and when professionally applied, a variety of textures can be trowelled to give a desired cosmetic appearance.

Although Stucco has many bonuses it requires high maintenance to keep it looking its best. Cement, limestone, plaster, and other aggregate materials of which stucco is made, are very porous, and can be prone to dust and dirt settling in crevices, cracks, water ingress and small pits within the finish. Also depending on the amount of moisture surrounding your home’s environment, algae and spores can build up on your stucco, leading to blemishes and seemingly permanent discoloration of the surface. Also due to the fact that Stucco is a dense and hard material, over time as temperature fluctuations occur and your home shifts and settles, stucco can crack, chip, or show water damage, making it quite unsightly and difficult to repair.

Making your stucco look new again can be a lot easier then you think. All you need are the right products. In recent years “Elastomeric Coatings” have become very popular when refurbishing your stucco. They are a special manufactured formula (not a paint) but a coating.

An Elastomeric coating is a special manufactured formula (not a paint) but a coating. It is an internally plasticized product that coats your stucco, filling in the hairline cracks, small pits and pores that can collect airborne dust particles JUN - JUL 2014 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 67

MAKING YOUR STUCCO LOOK NEW AGAIN CAN BE A LOT EASIER THEN YOU THINK. ALL YOU NEED ARE THE RIGHT PRODUCTS. IN RECENT YEARS “ELASTOMERIC COATINGS” HAVE BECOME VERY POPULAR WHEN REFURBISHING YOUR STUCCO. The best time to prepare for this project in the early morning or evening, never do this in the bright sunlight.

and form breeding grounds for algae, mildew and mould spores.

The internally plasticized elastic polymers within the product allow it to bridge cracks permanently, and assure the product to stretch as the stucco moves, preventing new cracks from compromising the elastic surface coating.

Elastomeric coatings are available in custom colors, and are not only waterproof, preventing moisture and driving rain from penetrating the exterior of your home, they’re also breathable, which means that moisture can escape from within your wall cavity, allowing the coating to maintain solid adhesion, and prevent substrate damage, which may otherwise result from moisture entrapment. Elastomeric coatings are engineered to coat and protect materials such as concrete, masonry, brick and stucco.

Before applying an elastomeric coating, you must prepare the surface to assure maximum adhesion and 68 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS JUN - JUL 2014

longevity of the finish. The exterior of the home should be cleaned thoroughly using my home cleaning formula to ensure dirt and algae are removed before the application.

Start by wetting the stucco surface with a garden sprayer (do not use a pressure washer as it can often cause more damage than good.) Mix a ratio of 3 level lids of powdered cleaning formula into 3 gallons of water. Once the solution is mixed, spray on the wall and scrub the stucco with a stiff bristled brush, and rinse. If the stucco is still dirty, or green from algae, repeat the process scrubbing those trouble areas with a wire brush.

Elastomeric coatings are somewhat “do it yourself” friendly, but do involve some moderate to intense labour to apply properly. If you’d like a professionally applied coating such as a liquid vinyl coating applied on your stucco there are contractors who can take care of this for you.

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 For more home improvement information, or to sign-up for Shell’s FREE online HouseSmart E-Newsletter visit www.AskShell.com

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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

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Log onto

AskShell.com

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

and follow the prompts.

JUN - JUL 2014 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 69

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Make no compromises‌

Quality, Transparency, Value

OUR BEST PRICE GUARANTEE

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

(403) 277-5600 www.trademarkrenovations.com

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

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