Calgary Home Decor & Renovations - OCT/NOV 2014

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OCT - NOV 2014 VOLUME 12 ISSUE 5

CALGARY EDITION

Home projects made easy WITH TRADEMARK RENOVATIONS

TIPS FOR CREATING A COSY

HOW TO

MAKE A SPACE FEEL LIKE HOME

secret GARDEN

2013 RENOVATOR CHBA-CALGARY REGION

OF THE YEAR

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

contents

VOLUME 12 ISSUE 5

OCT - NOV 2014

28

40 FREE

OCT - NOV 2014

VOLUME 12 ISSUE 5

in every issue 8 Editor’s notebook

tips & tricks 22 Get reno-organized

BY HELLEN BUTTIGIEG

CALGARY EDITION

Home projects made easy WITH TRADEMARK RENOVATIONS

features 15 Personal space

BY MICKEY FOULDS

TIPS FOR CREATING A COSY

HOW TO

MAKE A SPACE FEEL LIKE HOME

secret GARDEN

cover story

10

TRADEMARK RENOVATIONS

BY HEATHER RYAN

32 Taste master

BY SARA DUCK

36 Renovation

key driver in economy

BY BRYAN TUCKEY

45 A little room please!

BY ADENE LUCAS

50 Beauty & Design

BY SARA DUCK

52 Mix Master

24 Ten reasons for hiring a pro 26 Decoding the code

BY MICHAEL NYIKES

28 The scoop

BY SARA DUCK

31 In shape

BY ELISA KROVBLIT

43 Garages that go the distance 62 5 important window upgrade and renovation tips

BY VANESSA GASH

67 Preventative Maintenance

BY SHELL BUSEY

BY SARA DUCK

57 Sweet smell of success

BY LAURA LE

outdoor spaces 38 Secret garden

BY BONNY DANN / ESCAPES INC.

64 Live stylishly in a small space

BY PELOSO ALEXANDER DESIGN

40 Sacredness and beauty

found in smaller spaces

BY JACKIE SWARTZ

COVER PHOTO COURTESY OF TRADEMARK RENOVATIONS

Renovations that Inspire

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403.461.5518

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Home renovations from the homebuilding experts.

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EDITOR’SNOTEBOOK

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2014 VOLUME 12 ISSUE 05 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 EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Sara Duck

MEDIA CONSULTANT

It’s renovation season!

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

With autumn in full swing (though it feels like winter some days!), you may be starting to think about home renovations. Tis the season! According to a recent housing report by global real estate consultant, Altus Group, Canada has experienced 15 consecutive years of annual spending increases on home improvements. Its no doubt, we Canadians love to renovate! And you have come to the right place. Here at Home Decor and Renovations magazine, we aim to inspire with fabulous tips and tricks for your upcoming renovation projects, plus, give you all the latest decor news and trends.

In our cover story starting on page 10, award-winning Trademark Renovations educates us on the importance of renovating key areas for enjoyment and resale, and why hiring professionals to get the job done right, is key.

On page 45 we get practical advice on storage saving solutions. If you feel like your home is bursting at the seams or if you want to be more organized, you won’t want to miss this article. Speaking of storage saving solutions, small space living has become commonplace these days, and utilizing every square inch is essential. Designers Glen Peloso and Jamie Alexander transform a modest 450 sq. ft. space into a stylish and functional home on page 64, you will be amazed!

With a change of season upon us, autumn is the perfect time to become inspired. Who knows? Maybe the explosion of colours found in nature with the turning of the leaves, will unleash your inner colourista and motivate you to take on a room makeover or renovation project.

We hope you enjoy the issue.

Bala Gnanapandithan PRODUCTION CO-ORDINATOR/ GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Mohammad Haidarpour GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Viosa Barileva, Mike Terentiev 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 EXECUTIVE 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)

8 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS OCT - NOV 2014

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

Published By

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Renovations

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COVERSTORY

inspiring & stylish

RENOVATIONS TRUST AWARD-WINNING TRADEMARK RENOVATIONS

by HEATHER RYAN

The news that homeowners would rather renovate than move doesn’t come as a surprise. What is perhaps more surprising is what rooms they are modernizing. For years we have always been told you will get your money back if you invest in kitchens and bathrooms, and while this is still very true, we are also seeing mudrooms and laundry rooms becoming very popular space saving additions. Moreover, Trademark Renovations owner Blair Foisy says multigenerational living areas, doing away with formal dining rooms and opening up the space are also increasingly being requested.

“Homeowners are repurposing spaces and making more efficient use of their home’s square footage,” says Foisy.

From the initial sketch to choosing light fixtures, colours, kitchen 10 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS OCT - NOV 2014

cabinets and flooring, Foisy strongly recommends homeowners work with an interior designer. Trademark Renovations collaborates closely with Tiffany Gibbons, interior designer and principal at Interiors by Tiffany, on their renovations as well as new custom home builds. “You are investing a lot of money and time into your project and design services are an important element to your project for many reasons,” adds Foisy. “First is that an interior designer can take your vision, and working with the builder, create a space that truly reflects your personality.”

ÙKitchens The kitchen has long had the distinction as being the epicenter of the home. It’s a gathering place for

family and friends alike; it’s where we break bread together. If the kitchen is the hub of the home, the kitchen island is the perfect casual place for gathering, while allowing the hosts to cook and clean while they socialize with their guests. “We are often opening up walls and incorporating very large islands,” says Foisy.

Barstools can be placed at the island for a quick meal or snack while not using the breakfast area or formal dining room. This is especially convenient for families with children that prefer to keep children away from more formal dining areas.

Kitchen islands provide counter space away from attached walls and cabinets. This allows for more freedom of movement as well as more counter space to prepare meals. Breakfast nooks

KITCHEN ISLANDS PROVIDE COUNTER SPACE AWAY FROM ATTACHED WALLS AND CABINETS OCT - NOV 2014 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 11

TODAY’S ULTIMATE SHOWER INCLUDES ANYTHING FROM A RAIN HEAD, BODY SPRAYS, SLIDE BAR, SOUND SYSTEM, LIGHT SYSTEM, AND OR STEAM OR DRY HEAT SYSTEMS, WHICH LOOKS MORE LIKE A CAR WASH are another way to make the most of extra space in your kitchen, says Foisy.

It’s a great place to grab breakfast on the go or to lounge with a cup of coffee and a good read.

When it comes to cabinetry, it dictates the look of your kitchen – cabinets truly can make or break the entire room’s overall appearance.

Integrated appliances, housed within cabinetry, are a great way to save space and it looks gorgeous. Some, such as refrigerators, freezers and dishwashers, are fully integrated, others like ovens, can only be partially incorporated.

To maximize your storage space, go with full height cabinetry. “Older homes didn’t have full height cabinets and so there was a lot of wasted space,” says Foisy. “When it comes to smaller homes, full-height cabinets are also way more practical.”

Rather than putting in Lazy Susans, more and more homeowners are opting for Magic Corners. For good reasons, says Foisy, because a Magic Corner has pull out doors and shelving, allowing for easier access and more storage space.

“There are lots of options in kitchen storage and affordable ones too … we are putting in pull-out pantries as opposed to the corner pantry popular 12 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS OCT - NOV 2014

in the 1980s and nineties,” he adds.

“These are full-height pantries that store even more and they actually make the kitchen appear larger.”

Never overlook lighting – it can take any room from drab to stunning and won’t break the bank. It is also what helps set the mood. There are lights now that mount on cabinets, either above or below, which offers just the right amount of illumination to give your kitchen (or your bathroom) a nice soft glow.

ÙBathrooms Focusing on the health benefits as well as the convenience, there is a wide selection of ways to take an ordinary bath to the extraordinary.

Today’s ultimate shower includes anything from a rain head, body sprays, slide bar, sound system, light system, and or steam or dry heat systems, which looks more like a car wash. You are truly only limited by your imagination and wallet.

The art of living in small spaces

ÙMudrooms Mudrooms are great for active families on the go, gardeners and anyone who entertains a lot. You can stash clothes, backpacks, shoes and athletic equipment.

Depending on the configuration of your home, a mudroom can be located near the front door, the back or adjacent to your living quarters.

Whether you’re changing out of muddy shoes, bringing in a basket of blooms from the garden, or dropping lunch boxes, an organized family place in a heavily trafficked area — one that you’ll pass through regularly throughout the day — simply makes sense.

In Calgary’s older homes, homeowners are typically adding a mudroom to the rear of the house. Recently Foisy worked with a couple on their 1,400 square feet 1950s bungalow. “The home had a back door and a four-foot landing which we opened up and added a mudroom,” he explains. “Rather than completely redo the layout we worked within the footprint of the home.”

Because the mudroom will get the most abuse in your house, consider what type of storage you want. Do you want individual lockers for each family member? If so, do you want it to look uncluttered and have a door installed?

“In a smaller space, I suggest one open space with hooks as opposed to individual cubbies,” says Gibbons.

Homebuilders are changing their vision of what families want in a house. As land becomes more and more scarce and pricier — there simply isn’t much left in the urban areas where people want to live.

There is also a desire to simplify life; therefore interiors are being designed for these lifestyle shifts as well. In many small condos and town homes, dens double as guest rooms and offices, living rooms turn into bedrooms, and kitchens convert to dining rooms.

“Think about each activity during the day and write them down then start thinking about what you need to make your life easier,” says Gibbons. “When designing a small space every inch counts and has to have a reason. If you plan and design for these things, your smaller space will not feel cluttered and unorganized.”

Keeping the interior colour palette quiet means a minimal variation between materials and finishes. Painting a single tone on all vertical surfaces creates a visually seamless continuation between rooms, making the space appear larger. “Do not shy away from darker paint colours … yes, lighter shades help make the room feel brighter but sometimes darker tones give character and far more feeling to a room,” says Gibbons.

Rather than incorporate too many different hues, stay in the same family but use different shades.

Finally, says Foisy, for anyone considering a renovation, remember to find a renovator who is accredited, has a great reputation, one who really listens to your needs and is mindful of your budget.

Trademark Renovations is a multiple award-winning premiere renovation and luxury custom home building company that has been setting the standard of excellence in Calgary. For more than 30 years, they have been creating great living spaces.

When you are ready to renovate, call Trademark Renovations at 403 277-5600 or visit www.trademarkrenovations.com.

OCT - NOV 2014 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 13

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FEATURE

personal space

by MICKEY FOULDS WHEN GOLDILOCKS WANDERED into the forest dwelling inhabited by Mama, Papa and Baby bear she explored the rooms and after trying out the furnishings she soon found the chair and bed (and porridge!) that were “just right” for her. She felt so at home that she settled into Baby bear’s bed which is where she was found, sound asleep.

Similarly, we all have a personal sense of what kind of space we feel

most at home in, which resonates with us and which is the best “fit” for us and our lifestyles.

Discussions of space in homes often centre around maximizing small spaces, filling very large spaces and dealing with architectural features or awkward spaces. These are of course very important considerations when furnishing and accessorising a home.

However, there are also rules that emerge from this that can be broken when factoring in your personal style.

For example storage is a major consideration if you live in a small condo, and for the majority of homeowners who subscribe to mainstream transitional furniture styles and interiors (that look like Urban Barn – current, livable and stylish) we would be focused on storage ottomans and multipurpose pieces. However, I have had clients living in very small spaces that have a minimalistic aesthetic and own few clothes, dishes and collectibles, thus needing little space. Theirs is a 16 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS OCT - NOV 2014

DISCUSSIONS OF SPACE IN HOMES OFTEN CENTRE AROUND MAXIMIZING SMALL SPACES, FILLING VERY LARGE SPACES AND DEALING WITH ARCHITECTURAL FEATURES OR AWKWARD SPACES.

lifestyle of investing in experiences and activity rather than possessions.

Their “clutter” consists of a storage locker with hiking gear, skis, suitcases and all the apparel needed for a life of adventure.

Others, however, live in small spaces packed to the brim with collectibles, art and overstuffed furniture that delightfully tell the story of their lives. The rooms are cosy and inviting, reminiscent of Victorian interiors. (A walk through Chintz & Co in Calgary conveys the aesthetic quite well.) Side tables with a multiplicity of family photographs, piles of books and overflowing shelves all intrigue and entertain us.

Similarly large spaces can be very expansive, minimalistic or contemporary. Cutting edge furnishings from Roche Bobois or Robert Sweep complemented with large abstract art canvases become sculptural pieces needing little embellishment by a myriad of decorative accessories. The space OCT - NOV 2014 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 17

IT IS A PERSONAL MISSION OF MINE TO CONVEY TO MY CLIENTS – AND ANYONE ELSE LISTENING – THAT IT ALL BEGINS AND ENDS IN THE BEDROOM!

18 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS OCT - NOV 2014

itself becomes important and architectural lines and angles create a visual interplay with the furnishings.

These large spaces can also be very fully furnished with multiple seating areas, cosy nooks, grand tables with beautiful decorative accessories, heavy drapes and rich rugs underfoot. Restoration Hardware comes to mind with their magnificent collection of large pieces, many with a feel of history to them.

The majority of us live in mid-sized homes and if we were to do the much needed cull of the things that have found a home in our basements and never see the light of day, we find that space is not an issue. This leaves us free to look at our space from another perspective. Does it reflect who we are? Does it work well with our lifestyle? And, most important, at the end of the day when we return home from work and the door closes behind us, do we feel comfortable, happy and peaceful?

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It is a personal mission of mine to convey to my clients – and anyone else listening – that it all begins and ends in the bedroom!

We all enjoy staying in nice hotel rooms with luxurious linens, attractive furniture and soft lighting.

However, my involvement in design and, in particular, staging consultations has revealed a fairly sad picture that emerges from the nation’s master bedrooms!

Functional, uncoordinated, tired linens and distorted pillows, missing nightstands, huge televisions and a stark center ceiling light fixture are the depressingly common reality for many. That is no way to start and end your days!

I would recommend that the bedroom is the first space you should review, and make the necessary changes. When you open your eyes in the morning you should feel great and excited about a new day filled with opportunity, and similarly at night you deserve to be in an

environment which is harmonious and restful.

Once you have created the bedroom space of your dreams, you will be motivated move on to the living room. Look at it critically and ask yourself if it truly reflects you and your lifestyle. Is this the best you can do? Does it make you happy?

Sometimes it takes a few small changes to reconfigure a space to make it absolutely perfect for you.

If it seems overwhelming, or simply just “not quite right” but you can’t identify the problem, consider calling in a design professional – in the space of an hour you can have all the answers from a fresh, experienced set of eyes that sees both you and your space objectively, and can translate your dream into a reality.

Your home does not need to look like a show home, but rather reflect you and your life. So ask not what you can do for your space, but rather what your space can do for you.

After all, it’s a personal matter!

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TIPSANDTRICKS

GET RENO-ORGANIZED

by HELLEN BUTTIGIEG

RENOS ARE AS EXCITING AS THEY ARE STRESSFUL, and staying organized before, during and after the reno was the best thing I did to keep the stress level down. If you’re planning a reno, here are my top tips to help you get through it as easily as possible.

BEFORE: Pick the date you want the construction to begin.

Keep in mind that good tradespeople are booked far in advance and some materials, like kitchen cabinets, need to be ordered six to eight weeks ahead of time.

Get referrals, check credentials, meet the people you will be hiring and make sure you feel comfortable communicating with them. Hiring the right contractor for us was the single most important thing we did. He always stayed in communication, remained calm when things went wrong, and was honest and trustworthy.

Start a file to keep all relevant paperwork organized — quotes, invoices, receipts, contact information, etc. I used an accordion file and labelled each slot with categories like: cabinets, appliances, fireplace, and flooring. I also created a file in my email program and put all emails related to the reno there, for easy reference. Use a filing system that will work for you, but keep it simple because you’ll be busy.

22 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS OCT - NOV 2014

Give yourself plenty of time to pack up the items in the areas to be renovated — especially kitchens. If you pack everything up well, the unpacking is much faster and things won’t get damaged. We used liquor boxes with the dividers inside for things like mugs and glasses. We removed the dividers for dishes and other flat items.

These boxes are strong, a nice size so they’re not too heavy to lift when full, and best of all, they’re free from the liquor store. Label each and every box clearly, in case you need to find something before you unpack — especially if the reno takes longer than you anticipated. Stack the boxes so the ones you’ll unpack first are at the front. A so, it’s helpful to put boxes with similar contents together (i.e. dishware in one area, decorative items in another). While you are packing, take advantage of the perfect opportunity to get rid of things that you don’t use or are worn out or damaged.

RENOS ARE AS EXCITING AS THEY ARE STRESSFUL, AND STAYING ORGANIZED BEFORE, DURING AND AFTER THE RENO WAS THE BEST THING I DID TO KEEP THE STRESS LEVEL DOWN.

DURING: Set up a temporary area to replace the room that is getting renovated. For us, it was the entire main floor, so we set up the basement with the same areas we use on the main floor. Thankfully, we already had a bathroom and family room downstairs, so we just had to set up a kitchen. We used a folding table, a small fridge, and our microwave on a stand. We purchased paper plates, glasses, cutlery and napkins, because washing dishes was very difficult. Thankfully, our reno took place in the late summer and fall, so we were able to eat most meals on the deck. The barbecue also came in handy.

If you can save your kitchen reno until nicer weather, I would recommend it.

AFTER: If you’ve followed my packing suggestions, this will be the easiest part of the whole reno. Once everything is

You don’t know how to start preparing your home for sale, call me ...

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cleaned (our ‘shop vac’ came in handy here), just unpack and put everything away. If you are not sure how to store items in a functional way, you may want to consider consulting a professional organizer — so that your kitchen not only looks great but also works effectively for you and your family.

Although there were some things that didn’t go according to plan, everything worked out in the end and all we can say now, as we enjoy our newly renovated home is, “why didn’t we do this sooner?”

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.

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OCT - NOV 2014 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 23

TIPSANDTRICKS

Ten reasons for

HIRING A PRO

RENOVATING YOUR HOME SHOULD BE a positive experience - free from worry and stress. You should have full confidence in your renovator and know that you are getting the best. That's why you should choose a professional renovator. › From start to finish. A professional renovator will help you to put it all together - from ideas to design, products to plans, and construction to completion. › Experienced advice. A professional renovator has the experience and knowledge to help turn your ideas into great results. They listen, make suggestions, and look for the best way of doing things. › Technical know-how. Professional renovators understand construction, how to deal with challenges and 24 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS OCT - NOV 2014

problems, and how to improve the comfort of your home. › Expert teamwork. Behind every professional renovator, there is a solid network of staff, subtrades and suppliers ready to go to work for you. › A proven track record. Their business is an open book. You are invited to talk with past customers, look at their previous work and check out their reputation. › Accurate pricing. No need to be concerned about low-ball costing, inferior work or escalating prices

once the job begins. Experienced renovators know what it takes to do something right and how much it costs, and they'll tell you upfront. › A written contract. Trust alone is not enough.

Professionals back it up with a written contract that spells your project out in detail-what, how, who, when and how much. › Liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage. Better safe than sorry. In the unlikely event of an accident or damage to your own or neighbouring properties, a professional renovator's coverage protects you from liability and cost. › Warranty. Like any other consumer purchase, a professional renovation comes with a warranty on labour. And with professional installation, there is no risk of voiding the manufacturers' warranties on materials and products. › Service, service, service. Professional renovators are in business for the long term. They work hard to earn your trust and make every renovation a great experience.

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OCT - NOV 2014 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 25

TIPSANDTRICKS

Decoding the code

by MICHAEL NYIKES

Q

Considering how cold it is in Alberta during the winter, are plumbing pipes allowed to be installed in exterior walls?

A

Great question, and timely too because Albertans will see the temperatures regularly dipping below zero pretty soon.

In accordance with the 2010 National Plumbing Code of Canada (2010 NPC), piping in exterior walls shall be protected from frost. Unfortunately, the methods of protection are not specifically described in the 2010 NPC and as we know the climatic conditions vary greatly in Alberta during the winter.

To provide guidance on this topic, Alberta Municipal Affairs released Standata P-07-06-NPC 10 (Rev 2) in November 2012 indicating that methods of protection as described in the previous Alberta Plumbing and Private Sewage Codes were suitable on the basis of past performance and shall be established on the basis of local experience.

It was determined that no part of a plumbing system, except a dry vent that is adequately insulated from freezing, shall be located in an exterior wall. Adequately insulated means that piping shall be located on the warm side of the insulation

26 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS OCT - NOV 2014

and vapour barrier in an enclosed space on the inside of the exterior wall.

This means a separate 2x4 or 2x6 wall (depending on piping sizes) must be built inside the insulated exterior wall, and the plumbing would need to be located inside this additional wall. In essence, this adds an entire wall of insulation between the cold outside temperatures and the pipes, safeguarding the pipes from freezing during the winter.

It is important to note this will affect the design of some spaces (such as a laundry room), because this additional wall will decrease the interior footprint by 4 to 6 inches of floor space.

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

Overhead Overhead Door Door Company Company of of Calgary Calgary 587-331-7361 www.overheaddoor.tv 587-331-7361 www.overheaddoor.tv Overhead Door Company of Calgary

TIPS&TRICKS

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the scoop

CATCH UP ON DECOR & RENO NEWS, INSPIRATION, STYLE AND MORE

by SARA DU CK

{ SCOOP the LOOK! {

Ektorp Sofa in Risane Natural Beige. $600.

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Suzani Night 18-in.

Embroidered Throw Pillow. $44.

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Klingsbo Coffee Table. $80.

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R HD&

Keurig continues to evolve the art of the one-touch coffee machine. In their latest model, the Keurig 2.0 K500, the system now reads each lid ensuring the perfect brew in one cup or four cup carafe.

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After six years of intensive research by a team of 29 Dyson engineers, the new Dyson Cinetic is born. This machine boasts unparalleled suction capabilities, no bags or need to wash filters and a trigger-bin emptying system. We think it’s pure genius! Dyson Cinetic DC78 Turbinehead. $700.

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Add a dash of drama to your table with the Madrid Five-Piece Cutlery Set in Matte Black. $75.

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OCT - NOV 2014 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 29

14 TE SY OF 20 PH Y CO UR L IN C. PH OT OG RA RN AT IO NA TE IN P OU N GR TH E FA SH IO

#TRENDING

Top reno tips FROM

homeowners

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

1

Find a renovator you can trust and are comfortable with. This is crucial to a good renovation experience. You need to check out the renovator thoroughly. Ask lots of questions when you meet. Talk with previous customers. Visit past or current projects – you want to feel that “if the renovator did something like that in my home, I’d be very happy.” You also need to be confident that the company is financially stable and will be around in the future. And while it may be hard to define a comfortable personal fit, you need to feel “in your gut” that you can trust and work well with this person.

2

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

3

Take an active role throughout the project.

“It’s your investment and your home, so you want to follow things closely and know what’s going on at all times.” The best results come from good communication and a good working relationship between you and your renovator. A good renovator provides regular, if not daily, updates and is easy to get hold of if you have questions or concerns. You should be prepared to spend time going over drawings, monitoring the progress of your project, and discussing decisions with your renovator.

4

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Don’t expect a problem-free renovation. The bigger the project, the more likely you will run into the unexpected, such as existing deficiencies hidden in the walls, delays in special orders or bad weather. Be flexible and understand that some things are beyond the renovator’s or your control. “If there is good rapport and trust between you and your renovator, it is usually easy to find a solution and move beyond the problem.”

5

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30 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS OCT - NOV 2014

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

STYLEFILE

in

SHAPE

The Suitor Loveseat. $1,399.

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Marissa Linens. $45. to $200.

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Just add accent pieces that complement your foundation decor to get the look without the commitment. Or go big with feature pieces that dominate, and enjoy the strong, sassy style these prominent and playful patterns create.

tip:

Patterns can be combined. While you don't want to create an optical illusion, you can use patterns within a colour theme to play off of each other. Just be sure to include some solids in the overall melange.

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brad@lakeviewfloors.ca I www.lakeviewfloors.ca • Hardwood • Tile • Cork • Bamboo • Carpet • Laminate • LVT • Congoleum • Dura Ceramic OCT - NOV 2014 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 31

®

FOODIE

taste MASTER CHEF MARK MCEWAN CERTAINLY KNOWS HIS WAY AROUND A KITCHEN. With 35-plus years in the culinary industry he

has cooked for Pope John Paul II, has hosted several Food Network programs, opened four successful restaurants, and has a gourmet food store, aptly named McEwan, at The Shops at Don Mills since 2009. He shares some of his most famous recipes with HD&R to get you inspired for autumn entertaining. Bon AppĂŠtit!

by SARA DUCK

32 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS OCT - NOV 2014

Bymark Martini Ingredients

Method

2 oz Absolut Citron Vodka

Add all ingredients to shaker (except champagne) with ice

2 oz grapefruit juice (preferably pink) 1/2 oz lime juice

Shake well, and strain into martini glass Top with sparkling wine Garnish with a gooseberry

1/4 oz Triple Sec Top with sparkling wine (preferably dry champagne)

Bymark

lobster poutine

Ingredients Serves 2 2 large Yukon gold potatoes, scrubbed, about 20 oz combined 1 live lobster, about 1.25 lb parcooked and shelled 2 cups clarified butter

1 tbsp gastrique 1/2 tsp lemon juice 3 drops each Tabasco, Worcestershire sauce Pinch of salt, ground white pepper 1 tbsp tarragon, chopped 1 tbsp chives, chopped

2 egg yolks

Gastrique Makes ¾ cup 1 cup white wine 1/2 cup red wine vinegar 2 shallots, sliced

2 bay leaves 2 tsp kosher salt 1 tsp granulated sugar 1 tsp peppercorns

Combine all ingredients, bring to a boil, then simmer gently to reduce by half. Strain and cool.

Perfect French Fries Serves 2 Trim one side from the potatoes so that they sit flat and stable on the cutting board. Slice them into desired French fry slice and plunge them in ice cold water. Soak for a few hours at least, ideally over night, changing the water periodically. >> Meanwhile, Heat the deep fryer to 325F. Dry the French fries well with a kitchen cloth and then blanch them in the hot oil until they wilt.

Drain on paper towels. Raise the heat of the deep fryer to 400F. Fry the blanched French fries until bronzed and crisp. Drain, and toss with lashings of salt.

Method Heat half the butter to 120F. Place a stainless steel mixing bowl over a pot of simmering water, add egg yolks and gastrique, and whisk together until they the mixture thickens and turns pale yellow. Remove bowl from heat, and while whisking continuously slowly add the butter. Add lemon, Tabasco, Worcestershire, salt, pepper and tarragon and set aside in a warm place. >> Heat the remaining butter to 170F. Cut the lobster meat into bite-size pieces and add to the butter. Finish cooking French fries, then drain and toss with salt. >> Simply scatter a warm plate lightly with some of the chives, add half the fries, then half the butter-poached lobster and dab with béarnaise. Add another layer of fries, the remaining lobster, a generous smattering of béarnaise and finally the remaining chives.

OCT - NOV 2014 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 33

Carrot & Avocado

salad

Dressing

Salad

Yield 2/3 cup

1/2 cup roasted heirloom carrots

1 scallion, thinly sliced

pinch of Kosher salt

1 orange segments

Juice of 1/2 Lemon 200ml white balsamic vinegar 500ml olive oil

2 tsp olive oil 1 avocado, scooped

1tbsp horseradish 1 tbsp whole grain mustard pinch of salt dash of black pepper Combine all ingredients and slowly stream in the olive oil while whisking.

handful of coriander sprigs 5 chopped celery hearts

Toss carrots with olive oil and salt and roast until tender. Place carrots on the plate with avocado and orange segments and scatter the remaining ingredients on top. Drizzle dressing over salad.

Adjust seasoning and enjoy.

Pork Ribs Hong Kong Style Ingredients

1tbsp chopped garlic

serves 4

1tbsp sambal oelek

4 racks of pork side ribs

1/2 lemon sliced

2 cans Sapporo

Salt and pepper

1/2 cup light Japanese soya sauce 1/2 cup maple syrup 1/2 cup rice wine vinegar 1/2 cup barbeque sauce (your favourite) 2 bay leaves 1tbsp cracked pepper

Garnish 2tbsp minced chives 1 cup crème fraiche 1/4 cup Dijon mustard lemon juice to taste

Method Preheat oven to 375F. Arrange ribs meaty side down in a roasting pan, preferably in a single layer. Combine all the other ingredients in a bowl, stir well and pour over ribs. Cover the pan tightly with foil and transfer into the oven. After 45 minutes, carefully remove the foil, turn the ribs and reseal. After an hour, check on the ribs for doneness: the meat should be just beginning to pull away from the bone. >> Transfer the ribs to a clean roasting pan. Strain the braising liquid into a large measuring cup. Pour enough liquid over the ribs to submerge them completely. Although the ribs can be finished immediately, their flavour will be better if you set them aside, covered in the braising liquid overnight or for several days. Let the remaining braising liquid sit until the fat separates completely, then skim or pour off. Transfer the liquid to a saucepan and reduce by half until the liquid coats the back of a spoon.

34 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS OCT - NOV 2014

Preheat grill on its lowest setting, brush rack with oil. Remove the ribs from the braising liquid (discarding the liquid) and transfer them to the grill, meat side down. Brush them with the reduced braising liquid, turn and brush again.

Continue turning and glazing, watching that the sugar in the sauce does not burn, until the ribs are heated through and nicely coloured. >> Cut the ribs and arrange on a platter, drizzle with extra sauce, season with salt and pepper, sprinkle chives and serve with ramekins of crème fraiche combined with mustard and a few drops of lemon juice. >> This same recipe can be used for pork back ribs, beef ribs, and even beef short ribs. Each will require a longer braising time than the side ribs. Test for doneness the same way. Heat larger ribs gently in their braising liquid before placing them on the grill. Pair with a Zinfandel or Viognier and enjoy!

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

2777 Hopewell Place N.E. Calgary Phone (403) 250-1020 Toll Free 1-800-382-8502

Builder, Marco Antonio Homes Ltd.

www.prestigerailings.com OCT - NOV 2014 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 35

RENOMARK

Renovation

key driver in economy

by BRYAN TUCKEY

CANADIANS LOVE THEIR HOME-IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS.

Canada has experienced an amazing 15 consecutive years of annual spending increases on home improvements, according to a recent housing report by Altus Group, a Toronto-based global real estate consultant.

Among the factors for the 15year climb are: a growing, aging housing stock; changing consumer preferences; and media exposure which has exploded in that time.

Altus said it’s expecting about three-per-cent growth for this year and 2015 nationally.

There are a growing number of homeowners spending more each year on renovation projects. During the past five years, the average annual renovation cost per occupied housing unit (rental and owned homes) was about $4,600 per year, up from $2,500 between 1994 and 1998.

About $63.4 billion was spent on the residential renovation industry last year. That’s more than was spent across Canada on new residential construction. In fact, that figure represents about 3.7 per cent of total gross domestic product.

Renovations can add value to a home when they’re made by the right professional.

Before you turn to your neighbour for a tip on a renovator, we recommend that you visit renomark. ca, where you will find Canada’s top contractors.

Founded by BILD in 2001, RenoMark is a program that was designed to bring professionalism and integrity to the renovation industry.

36 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS OCT - NOV 2014

THERE ARE A GROWING NUMBER OF HOMEOWNERS SPENDING MORE EACH YEAR ON RENOVATION PROJECTS. Each RenoMark contractor agrees to abide by a renovationspecific code of conduct and a code of ethics of the administering home builders’ association.

The program is in nine provinces and more than 40 communities across Canada. There is no guarantee for consumer protection when you hire illegal renovators, who are often uninsured, because there is no written contract to hold them accountable for their quality of work.

But you’ll have a contract with a RenoMark renovator.

As per the code of conduct, RenoMark renovators must: return all phone calls within two business days, offer a minimum two-year warranty on all work, carry a minimum of $2 million in liability insurance, and provide a detailed written contract or scope of work for all jobs.

BILD’s renovator members are our top advocates and ambassadors for the program, so don’t take my word for it. Look for a RenoMark renovator today and you’ll find a top professional who will be suited to create your dream kitchen, add that new bedroom you’ve wanted for years or remodel your bathroom.

It’s important that you find the right person for the job.

Use renomark.ca’s searchable database by region and type of project. In addition, check out the website’s RenoGuide list for helpful tips.

Hire a professional and enjoy your newly renovated home.

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

OUTDOOR SPACES OCTOBER - NOVEMBER 2014

TIPS FOR

creating a cosy secret garden

PHOTO COURTESY OF ESCAPE INC.

OUTDOORSPACES

Secret Gardens

by BONNY DANN / ESCAPES INC.

WHEN I WAS A CHILD A STORY OF A SECRET GARDEN and the healing that took place in that

garden left a lasting impression. Ever since I can remember I have been fascinated by gardens and all things associated with plants, but at some point I realized the healing ability of either building, working in, or just sitting in gardens and enjoying them. The idea of a secret garden is intriguing in even more ways and I love creating them whenever possible especially in areas that would normally be overlooked.

On large properties, especially those with several out buildings as well as the home, it is very easy to find places to incorporate secret gardens.

Smaller urban lots become more of a challenge, but it is almost always possible. My first experience and viewing of a secret garden on an urban lot was one created by a woman who had a hectic career, as well as three children, and needed a place to escape to at times and relax or read in quiet! City properties were much wider at that time, but nevertheless it 38 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS OCT - NOV 2014

was a relatively small side yard on a pie shaped lot. The narrowest side was fenced without an opening from the front, so to access this private garden you needed to go out the back of the house, through the entire back yard and around to the side. As the back yard had the outdoor living spaces needed for the family the side wasn’t used. The homeowner had a flagstone path installed just far enough down the side you didn’t really notice it behind the shrubbery in that corner.

Surrounding the patio out of site were shade loving perennials all in peaceful shades of green, white and blue. I have never forgotten it and love to create secret gardens in shady areas.

In the children’s story of the same name, the secret garden was filled with Roses so must have been in a sunny area and you certainly do not need to do them in the shade. I do find that areas between houses, down the side of detached garages etc., are neglected or simply filled with some type of gravel or crushed rock when in reality they make the best little escapes in shade gardens. For a majority of people, relaxing in a shady area is preferable over a sunny area, so these areas are ideal. For us sun lovers we need to find a secluded spot with sun beams. A secret garden should be in a spot where when you come upon it you are surprised, a wow moment, whether in sun or shade.

I like to build a patio into secret gardens whenever possible for chairs or loungers just enough room to relax with a beverage and a good book, but we also build meditative or relaxation areas in the hidden gardens. In fact they are more about a place to stroll through or relax in, than garden in, as we try to make them as low in maintenance as possible.

Patios are usually stone or precast

HAVING YOUR SECRET GARDEN BEHIND STONE WALLS ADDS TO THE MYSTERY AND PRIVACY OF IT.

concrete products. If adding a pergola or gazebo we tend to use Cedar with a sealant that lasts up to five years. We use flowering shrubs and clump forming perennials so pruning and dividing is kept to a minimum. With as deep of layer of mulch as possible weeding is also kept to a minimum. We like to build secret gardens that are a place for you to escape to, even if only for a few minutes, a place to relax and unwind after a long, busy day.

We have in some small areas, as illustrated in the walled garden in the pictures, built secret gardens only wide enough for a winding path where you stroll through blooming Hydrangeas in shady spots and Roses where they catch the sun. In wider spaces you can add fountains or fireplaces and larger furniture;

Designing & Creating Outdoor Living Spaces,

403-803-0773 | info@escapesinc.ca

room for two to share a glass of wine and enjoy. Just the fact that these escapes are secluded makes them feel more relaxing.

Using relaxing peaceful colours in the blooms adds to that feeling whether sunny areas or shady.

If possible, having your secret garden behind stone walls adds to the mystery and privacy of it.

Where that is impossible we use hedging or mixed shrubs to ever so slightly disguise the entrance. I have even just sharply curved a path so you only see the first flagstone leading into a narrow secret garden area.

We all need places to relax; whether alone or with others and cozy, little hidden spots in your BONNY DANN is owner and expert landscape designer at Escape Inc. www.escapesinc.ca

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403-803-0773 | www.escapesinc.ca | info@escapesinc.ca OCT - NOV 2014 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 39

OUTDOORSPACES

Sacredness and beauty FOUND IN SMALLER SPACES

by JACKIE SWARTZ

LIVING IN AN URBAN SETTING often means working with small spaces. Our yards and gardens are no exception. With the passing time, land tracts are shrinking and becoming compact. However, this certainly does not mean sacrificing beauty, style, and impact. The beauty of a small garden begins with a good and well thought out design.

40 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS OCT - NOV 2014

A good rule of thumb is that the smaller your yard, the more vital the landscape design becomes. A small garden can be more or less absorbed at a glance. Knowing this demonstrates that smaller yards can easily display a lack of care. Therefore it is important to pay attention to the tiniest details when designing.

I affectionately call this “mouse medicine� as it describes the concept beautifully. Keep in mind not to over stuff your garden knowing the limitations due to the available space.

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

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

Often I begin my yard dream project by creating a check list. List your favorite things and choose the essentials first. For example: tool shed, arbor, privacy screen, pergola, patio, fire pit, sundial, bird bath,

SMALL GARDENS CAN STILL HAVE FULL IMPACT ON THE SENSES, CREATING THE RIGHT ATMOSPHERE FOR YOUR SMALL GARDEN.

statue, herb garden, water feature, and hammock and so on. Be sure to include personalized areas such as a children’s play area, dog run, compost bin, along with your flower and vegetable garden. A good design ensures the inclusion of the latter.

Design styles are available through research and by scouting out local resources. And of course, for the brave of heart designing your own space usually is the most rewarding.

There are a myriad of ideas and possibilities to be discovered. By exploring you will be inspired to create maximum usage of your small area. The following list is a good starter kit in feeding your gardening imagination while honouring the diversity of those creating with the canvas of the earth: ›› Japanese (secluded, foliage interest, textures, stones, meditating), ›› English (full, floral, flowing, arbors, stone walls), ›› Roman (formal, pillars, statues, hard surfaces, containers), ›› Ranch (lots of lawn, roses along porch, fence), ›› Traditional (foundation planting of evergreens, shade tree, geometric),

›› Eclectic (out of the ordinary items, diagonal shapes), ›› Natural (curving lines, flowers & foliage balanced and blended).

After selecting your garden styles and features, allow some contemplative time. Spending time to mull the elements over ensures attaining optimum beauty in your available space. One may be tempted to simply fill the space up with softscape (plant material), yet keep in mind that the underlying structure must be addressed first. The primary question is knowing the main usage of your limited space. Addressing the vital components such as the hardscape (patio, walkway, fire pit area, and play area) will enable you to be successful in customizing your garden plans.

There are a variety of materials available to explore when you are trying to decide on your hardscape features. This calls you to think about what material would prove most fruitful to use. Some choices will be manufactured stone (pisa stone, cobble stone), natural stone (iron stone, rundle stone, sand stone, granite, limestone), poured concrete (stamped or broom finish), or crushed stone

(tan stone, 40 mm rundle, river stone, rainbow rock).

Your yard may have sunny or shady areas or maybe both. This will narrow your plant material decisions. Engaging in preparatory work and research enables you to choose plants that harmonize in the growing condition of our locale. To facilitate the best growing conditions, I suggest adding amendments such as compost. Also include perusing our indigenous plants as well. Keep in mind that plants come in a variety of sizes, shapes and colours to satiate all tastes.

Awareness of the fact that our urban yards tend to be smaller presents another element worthy of our attention. Living in the city and knowing our space is smaller equates to having less privacy. The answer is found in designing and incorporating a personalized privacy screen. Privacy screens can become a living wall. A good example would be planting vines or including tall Swedish aspen trees.

Another breach of our privacy is living beside a two-storey house. Here our overhead privacy is compromised.

Including an overhead screen, such as a pergola, arbor or gazebo is a wonderful solution and adds beauty too.

Small gardens can still have full impact on the senses. Creating the right atmosphere for your small garden depends on stimulating the senses: smell, sight, sound, taste, and touch.

Lilacs and mock orange shrubs create pleasant smells and variegated plants OCT - NOV 2014 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 41

OUTDOORSPACES create visual enjoyment. A water fountain or gently cascading rock waterfall can drown out undesired noises. Planting and harvesting fresh herbs can add zest and enjoyment when cooking. Including a variety of plant species creates interesting textures and makes your garden interactive. Together the combination becomes desirable to the senses. The outcome is beautiful to others as well.

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

Romance unfolds by designing an intimate space that includes items such as a courtyard, garden swing on your patio, or merely adding an arbor (archway) planted with vines or climbing roses at the base. Creating intimacy in your yard tends to add a feeling of spaciousness. Hanging a mirror on a fence behind a feature perennial bed gives the illusion of more space.

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

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

Often a small garden project can be overwhelming, especially if you have never gardened before; however, designing your garden in stages allows you

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to breathe through each area of your garden project. Staying focused and relaxed ensures the joyfulness in bringing your garden plans to fruition.

Going in stages keeps the project fun and manageable. For visions that are beyond your expertise, connecting with a professional landscape designer ensures the completion of your dreams. Remember, as stated earlier, delightful things really do come in small packages. “After all it’s a small small world” as Disney stated.

Happy Gardening!

JACKIE SWARTZ Jackie Swartz has a 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.

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TIPS FOR CREATING A COSY

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OUTDOORSPACES

Garages

THAT GO THE DISTANCE GARAGES DO A WHOLE LOT MORE than protect your family’s vehicles from the elements. According to The Calgary Foundation, Calgary has one of Canada’s highest vehicle ownership rates per capita. As a result, Calgary’s CarShacks, recommends a twovehicle garage, even if your family has just one vehicle.

Since 1999, CarShacks has built thousands of garages in southern Alberta. In Calgary, a double vehicle garage is well worth the return on the investment at resale. According to the Appraisal Institute of Canada (AIC), a garage will typically offer a 50 to 75 per cent on the investment although it doesn’t specify the size of that garage.

CarShacks suggests a two-car garage is worth the additional cost because some

Calgary homebuyers will see a singlevehicle garage as a teardown.

Calgarians are typically multi-car families and prospective buyers may automatically take the cost of tearing down a single-vehicle garage and building a two-vehicle garage off the asking price. Typically, each vehicle requires 10 feet in width and 20 to 22 feet in depth but if, like so many Calgarians, you love your oversized pickups, you’ll need at least 12 feet in width and 24 feet in depth, as well as a door that’s eight feet tall versus the standard seven feet. The building code requires both a vehicle and a passage door. CarShacks always makes the passage door opening three feet wide.

Homeowners don’t think to ask for the extra-wide door until they’re

trying to wrestle a snowblower, wheelbarrow or patio furniture through it, so CarShacks made it a standard feature. When determining the size of your garage, ask yourself how much of your backyard space you are willing to sacrifice to the garage.

While storage is typically the most common secondary need, some homeowners also create an additional finished heated room. A Calgary piano teacher even had a small studio installed in the garage to free up the family living room and give her family more privacy and quiet time. “True living spaces are increasingly common, but still relatively rare". Make a wish list, then use it to plan your garage based on your family’s needs and the return-oninvestment that makes sense for you.

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(403) 248-6553 OCT - NOV 2014 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 43

FEATURE

Why water-based products should be used on your bare concrete floor

by BAILEY KOMARIC

I

nterior concrete floors have made the leap from a fringe fashion, a way for artists or loft owners to celebrate their minimalist lifestyles, to an invogue flooring material enjoying widespread appeal. The mottled, variegated, natural look produced by water-based eco-staining is often the most desirable feature of concrete flooring. The widespread appeal of concrete flooring did not happen overnight. Instead, the popularity of interior concrete floors has progressed along with an exponential explosion in concrete colouring options.

Besides the endless design possibilities with stained concrete, it has a number of benefits compared to carpet,

44 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS OCT - NOV 2014

wood or ceramic. Here are the top reasons Stained Concrete is a leader in the industry: 1. Water Based Eco-Stained concrete and the indoor Polyurethane sealer is extremely competitive in cost with the starting price being under $2.00/sq ft.

2. Eco-Stained concrete is a great alternative to wall-to-wall carpeting for people who are allergic to animal dander and dust mites.

3. Maintenance? What maintenance?

Regular maintenance generally involves periodic dusting or damp mopping. The amount of floor traffic will determine the frequency of the application of floor wax.

4. When installed properly, stained concrete floors are one of the most

durable materials on earth. Properly maintained, a concrete floor will last for years.

5. All you need is a few simple inexpensive tools, and your imagination!

Each water-based eco-stained concrete floor is unique and is very unique and personalized, and no two floors are ever alike. With eco-stain floors, you can achieve results not attainable with other flooring materials, such as marble, tile, or granite. Don’t worry about being a Michelangelo or Van Gogh, Hard Rock’s very knowledgeable staff not only guide you through the installation process but will give you the confidence to complete your stained concrete floor project without hassle.

FEATURE

A LITTLE ROOM PLEASE!

by ADENE LUCAS

much space we have, it’s never enough. The larger the home, the more stuff is acquired. When you live in a small space, you recognize quickly that you must be ruthless with purchases and organization or a small home becomes a mess very quickly.

If you use your space wisely, think creatively and purchase double duty items then a small space can be the ultimate in simple living.

IT SEEMS THAT NO MATTER HOW

If space is truly an issue in your home it’s time to look for options that give the illusion of space and provide solutions for storage. Before buying anything, assess what you have, what is essential, what can be purged and what can be used for storage. Once that has been established it is much easier to continue with the process.

Take inventory and evaluate what your needs are. It may be clutter busting, organizational systems, or simply furniture OCT - NOV 2014 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 45

placement that is effective and still stylish. Once you start seeing space opportunities, rather than space limitations, it can be fun to create your space in a unique fashion.

An often overlooked area to store things is vertical space, look up, there are always plenty of bare walls overhead.

You could use floating shelves to display collections or store anything from books to magazines. Shelves are great for that dead space over a headboard in a bedroom, up high in a hallway to store infrequently used vases and the like.

The use of shelving under the stairs, kitchen pantry, office, laundry room and back entry way are a great use of wasted space. If you are using shelves to store items, group them by colour to give everything a more cohesive, streamlined look. The bathroom can also have smaller styled shelves to house extra supplies or decorative items. Use stacking containers under bath vanities so you don’t waste the 46 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS OCT - NOV 2014

height and you can double up on storage. If shelving’s main purpose is to store items, consider housing like with like, use decorative boxes or jars which will create a more cohesive neat look. If it is not cohesive, the storage solution becomes just another concern as the shelving will appear cluttered. Try a lazy susan - rotating disc - for cosmetics under the sink. Place a tension rod under the sink and hang all cleaning bottles with a trigger spray to open up more cabinet space. Also keep the shower curtain light and clear to expand the space visually.

If floor space is an issue, clear plastic, Lucite, or glass are all great materials to use in furniture for smaller spaces because they don’t take up any visual weight.

They appear light and create a false impression of space. A set of three Lucite nesting tables in the living room is ideal. Using a mirrored hutch with drawers

IF SHELVING’S MAIN PURPOSE IS TO STORE ITEMS, CONSIDER HOUSING LIKE WITH LIKE, USE DECORATIVE BOXES OR JARS WHICH WILL CREATE A MORE COHESIVE NEAT LOOK. IF IT IS NOT COHESIVE, THE STORAGE SOLUTION BECOMES JUST ANOTHER CONCERN AS THE SHELVING WILL APPEAR CLUTTERED.

in the entranceway provides more storage, reflects light and keeps the hallway a bit glamorous while still being functional. Try to find double duty pieces that are purposeful while still pleasing to the eye. An ottoman with storage is one such classic piece. If the space can’t fit an ottoman, try storage cubes which can house extra books, blankets or toys. Dressers used as night tables in a bedroom is another clever way of maximizing storage.

Rather than an open shelf and a cabinet as a night stand you can have 3 or 4 full drawers. If space is really an issue, have one set of drawers on one side of the bed or two smaller night tables with drawers. Consider wall mounted lights to leave table top space open.

For the living area, contemplate purchasing a TV stand that has drawers beneath it and is low profile and long.

That way you can house your DVD’s, the cords are tucked

away and you may have enough space along the sides of the unit to place something decorative. As for furniture, exposed legs are much more airy looking than a skirted piece. Also one larger piece looks less busy than lots of small furniture strewn about.

In the kitchen think about drop leaf tables that can easily expand. Add a bench with a few throw cushions for additional seating that can be used in different spaces when company arrives. Tear out favorite recipes from dog eared cook books and copy them into one binder instead of housing a lot of cook books that are used infrequently.

If you have an old bookcase or armoire, spruce it up and use it as a pantry. IKEA mesh magazine files are great storage ideas for kitchens. Mount one on the inside of a cupboard door and store wax paper, foil and plastic wrap.

They can also be used upright as a can dispenser for pop or OCT - NOV 2014 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 47

canned goods in your pantry. Consider using an adhesive chalk board roll on the side of a cupboard or fridge to keep track of dates or family reminders. Chalkboard paint can be tinted to any color so you could make your own custom board and hang keys with gold hooks on it or place a small shelf underneath it.

A sofa bed is another double duty piece that works in a small space needs. The idea of a spare bedroom is the ultimate waste of space. Keeping a bedroom unused on the off chance you may have guests is not very practical.

Create an office with a day bed or a sofa bed with a TV mounted on the wall to be used as a living space. When guests arrive, unfold the bed and voila the space serves as a guest room. A murphy bed is another option or if space is really tight, so is a hotel. The notion that a small area must contain small furniture is a myth. One large striking piece will anchor the room, create visual interest and throw off the whole “small space� dynamic. Think of a big chandelier hung over a small dining table. The fixture would have impact and draw your eye upwards. A large area rug in a bold pattern can create the same effect. Or better yet use a vertically striped rug to create the illusion of space.

An oversized mirror or significant piece of art at the end of a narrow hallway will also trick the eye. This theory is akin to a petite woman wearing large jewellery, we call it a

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

48 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS OCT - NOV 2014

statement piece. It catches your eye and creates a bit of drama. Just because you’re in a small space doesn’t mean you have to live small, you just have to choose very wisely.

When it comes to colour, lighter shades opens up space. Greens, blues, greys, yellows and creams are colours to consider in a small space. Remember to paint the ceiling the same shade as it creates a very cohesive look and wraps the colour around the room. A monochromatic scheme also works nicely in a small space. By using the same tone and colour throughout, the space will flow and feel very connected. Light coloured floors and walls opens up the space making it feels larger than a dark floor and dark furniture would.

Of course you can always do something bold and apply a daring wall covering or splash of paint to create a striking look. However you choose to decorate in a small space, it needs to reflect your style, only a bit neater and more organized…

ADENE LUCAS www.accentondesigninc.ca | 403.651.7491

OCT - NOV 2014 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 49

CELEBRITYQ&A

With that beautiful signature mane, keen design eye and mad DIY skills, talented designer and Kitchen Crashers star Alison Victoria isn’t afraid to get her hands dirty.

BEAUTY & DESIGN

by SARA DUCK photo by Alan Shortall

50 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS OCT - NOV 2014

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT BEING A DESIGNER?

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ELEMENT ABOUT WORKING ON

Being surrounded by beautiful things is what drives my love for design. Whether I’m at home or in a space away from home, I want to be visually stimulated and inspired. Design drives me, it’s what I live for.

KITCHEN CRASHERS?

I’M INSPIRED BY…

I always look to travel, fashion, architecture and nature to draw inspiration from. I can look at any object or space and know instantly what I want it to be. Inspiration is all around us, it’s just how you look at things. Creative environments allow for an organic design process, and finding beauty in the little things can allow us to create the bigger picture.

Being able to do what I love in front of millions of people is a dream come true, but my favorite part is influencing and empowering women. I’m in a man’s world in this industry and breaking down the barriers will always be a challenge. I hold my own, respect each and every person who makes the show possible and work through the challenges we come across together, as a team. Having an 11 year old girl come up to me, to tell me she wants to do what I do, is by far the biggest reward to the show!

YOU AREN’T AFRAID TO GET INVOLVED AND HANDLE SOME SERIOUS EQUIPMENT ON THE SHOW! WHERE DID YOU LEARN HOW TO WORK WITH THE TOOLS OF THE TRADE?

DESCRIBE YOUR DESIGN AESTHETIC

Vintage and modern. The mix works so well for any interior.

YOU’RE KNOWN AS A DIY DIVA, WHAT ARE EASY PROJECTS

I’m a complete tomboy! I’ve always been comfortable using power tools, so a drill or a circular saw isn’t new to me. It’s taken me some time to master each one, but now it’s second nature to me.

BUDDING DIY-ENTHUSIASTS CAN TACKLE AT HOME?

• Change out your cabinet hardware. It’s the easiest thing to do to give your kitchen a quick facelift.

• Open things up in the kitchen by adding open shelving. Buy new or make your own and add a splash of colour with paint.

Display your go-to cookbooks, favorite spices and accessories.

• Add a backsplash. For first timers, stick to tile on a mesh mount and make sure you are starting out with clean slate or new drywall. Tin tiles are the easiest option for renters and they come down in a flash when you’re ready to move.

WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT DESIGN COMPONENT IN ANY SPACE?

Space planning and lighting are key. The way you use a space is dictated by the floor plan and the lighting is the controlling factor on setting the mood for each occasion.

DESCRIBE YOUR NEW LOOKBOOK SERVICE? HOW DID YOU COME UP WITH THIS IDEA?

The Alison Victoria LookBook is a true DIY approach to design, which allows clients all over the country to create amazing spaces with the custom feel of Alison Victoria minus the typical designer/ client interaction. The LookBook is a less expensive approach because the client orders items on their own, finds their own contractors and executes the entire project. All communication is done over email and the LookBook includes one floor plan, one colour rendering, samples, pictures and a full shopping list of all the items we specify for the space, along with a workbook. It usually arrives six weeks after we receive the questionnaire, homework and payment. Clients and fans constantly ask me how to get me inside their home, and now they can!

NOT ONLY ARE YOU ARE SUCCESSFUL DESIGNER BUT YOU

WHAT ARE YOUR TOP TIPS FOR CREATING A FABULOUS

ALSO HAVE YOUR OWN FURNITURE LINE. WHAT WAS THE

SPACE WITH A LIMITED BUDGET?

INSPIRATION BEHIND THE LINE?

Mix things up with your accessories and remember that the little things make a big difference!

• Change up your colour palette by bringing in new throw pillows with a punch of colour and texture and coordinate with the seasons (i.e. pastels for the spring or rich earth tones for the fall).

• Shop your own house to find old pieces that need a facelift.

Change things up by painting or refinishing it and add some new hardware to give it a custom look.

• Paint! Leave the colour to the artwork and accessories and get rid of that harsh colour on the walls. Lighten things up and remember that grey is the new neutral.

I’m inspired by architecture and fashion. I love clean lines so the structure of each piece was the focus. Bringing in a mix of glass, wood and metal gave each piece the sexiness it deserved.

WHAT ARE YOU UP TO NEXT?

I definitely need to take some time to sit back and look at everything that has been accomplished thus far. This has been a crazy journey and it’s only the first chapter. I’m so excited to start shooting season eight of Kitchen Crashers and can’t wait to take my LookBook to the next level!

ALISON VICTORIA’S GO-TO ONLINE STORES: ZUOMOD.COM | WAYFAIR.COM | JOSSANDMAIN.COM

OCT - NOV 2014 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 51

DESIGNERQ&A

Mix MASTER

by SARA DUCK / photos by PATRICK CLINE

Betsy Burnham is the principal designer of Burnham Design, a boutique interior design company in Los Angeles. She’s known for her mix of bold decor choices, fashiony interiors and flawlessly balanced palettes. We take a look inside one of her most colourful projects!

52 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS OCT - NOV 2014

BRINGING IN SOMETHING WITH SOME HISTORY IS THE BEST WAY TO INJECT A ROOM WITH PERSONALITY

What was your inspiration behind the Bronson Canyon project?

The clients had gotten married at the Parker Palm Springs, and loved the relaxed, high/low vibe there. So we started with the essence of the Parker, added in their love of all things luxe and the Spanish architecture of the house itself, and this is the result.

Describe the design of this home in three words.

• Bohemian • Colourful • Fashiony

53

How did you balance achieving your client’s dreams but also your vision for the space?

In this case, it was easy because our visions truly intersected.

He’s a musician, she’s in the fashion industry and they both have a lot of personal style. They have a young family but they didn’t want to sacrifice luxury for practicality (music to any designers ears). They were willing – eager, actually – to take risks. And they trusted me from the start.

What design element is fundamental to every space?

I use vintage pieces in every project; bringing in something with some history is the best way to inject a room with personality and to keep it from looking too new and static.

What was your greatest challenge on this project?

The biggest challenge was probably the living room furniture plan. It was a big room, and I knew the clients wanted to use it for entertaining but also for smaller groups, so it was important to make it feel intimate and inclusive. I noticed that almost every tearsheet the clients responded to featured a double sofa layout, and as soon as we tried that, the rest of the room came together easily.

What detail do you love most about this project?

The mix of elements in the nursery, from the blush-coloured ikat fabric we used on the daybed, to the Moroccan-style inlaid dresser, to the patchwork rug and the gallery of children’s art on the crib wall.

You’ve mixed different patterns together in this space for a beautiful, eclectic look. How can homeowners mix patterns successfully in their space?

Mixing patterns is really effective if you follow a couple of guidelines: pay close attention to scale, and keep a close eye on palette. It’s important to use a mix of sizes, from small, repetitive prints to 54 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS OCT - NOV 2014

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medium-scale and on to larger, bolder ones. If you work within a rather narrow palette, the mix never looks too crazy.

What is one item homeowners should splurge on for their home?

I always tell clients to buy the best bedding they can afford.

There’s nothing like crawling into wonderfully soft sheets at the end of a long day.

So many homeowners are afraid of using colour, but you use bold colour through out this home. What top tips do you have for decorating with colour?

My advice is to not be too literal with colour: just because you love a bold colour doesn’t mean you have to paint it on your walls!

Instead, try starting with a creamy white wall, and introduce colour on upholstered furniture pieces or accessories. And – this is important – always use at least one neutral; it will ground your palette, no matter how bright.

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OCT - NOV 2014 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 55

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FEATURE

Sweet smell of

SUCCESS…

by LAURA LE

PREPARING A PROPERTY FOR THE REAL ESTATE MARKET IS extremely important and sometimes a daunting task.

There are the obvious starting points of editing excess furniture, artwork and accessories; rearranging the furniture to highlight the architectural features and general cleaning so everything looks shiny and new.

The less thought of and more difficult to discuss or perhaps even notice are the odours that are part of every single property I have ever been in…some good and some not so good. Let’s start with the cooking conversation, I understand it is necessary to continue to cook when selling but consideration must be given to the type of food prepared. Stay away from foods with strong odours like fish and seafood and deep frying. Some more ethnic dishes with pungent odours should also be avoided as they can permeate everything and take longer to dissipate.

OCT - NOV 2014 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 57

ODOURS ARE OFTEN A DEAL-BREAKER FOR THE POTENTIAL BUYER SO DO WHAT YOU CAN TO CREATE THE SWEET SMELL OF SUCCESS WHEN SELLING YOUR HOME.

Barbecuing is a great alternative to cooking inside and if you are like me your husband does it so it is one less thing for you to do.

Smoking is THE most difficult odour situation to deal with. Often the smoker living in the household has been indulging in most rooms and the smell has been absorbed into every single surface in the property.

Unfortunately the only way to eliminate this problem is to replace carpet, paint the walls and ceilings and move out. My Aunt was a smoker; I remember once painting a dresser she had in her bedroom. We cleaned it thoroughly, primed it and then painted it with a semi-gloss white paint.

58 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS OCT - NOV 2014

THE LESS THOUGHT OF AND MORE DIFFICULT TO DISCUSS OR PERHAPS EVEN NOTICE ARE THE ODOURS THAT ARE PART OF EVERY SINGLE PROPERTY I HAVE EVER BEEN IN…SOME GOOD AND SOME NOT SO GOOD. In 2 days the yellow nicotine had bled through the primer and the 2 coats of white paint, we had to prime again and paint 2 more coats. The smell left behind by a smoker is impossible to get rid of with just cleaning. Everything needs to be painted and replaced if you are serious about selling a property where smokers have lived.

Then we come to the odours produced from some sporting equipment kept in laundry rooms and sometimes children’s bedrooms.

OCT - NOV 2014 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 59

This stuff can often make your eyes water and strangely the offending odour is not even apparent to the child. It is amazing they can even be in the room let alone sleep in there.

If sporting equipment is part of your life please keep it in the garage where it can have a better chance of airing out. There is also the issue of the “boy (or girl, for that matter) smell” as a friend of mines daughter refers to her brothers room. Try to keep the children’s laundry and bedding laundered and smelling fresh so no complaints can be found.

The same principal applies to the linen closet as well as all closets.

Sometimes these seldom used areas can have a stale smell if the items inside 60 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS OCT - NOV 2014

are rarely used. This is a good time to edit closets and remove the stuff that has not been used in a while. Tidy closets that smell great are important.

Lastly on the odour list are pets…I am a HUGE pet lover but the smells pets create can be very problematic. Keep all litter boxes and cages odour-free by cleaning daily and using the deodorizing products available for your specific pet.

Same goes for the yard, pick up the “land mines” as soon a possible to avoid both the odour as well as an unpleasant accident the potential buyer will not enjoy stepping in while checking out the yard. Some buyers will not even look at a property if there are pets sharing the space so try to keep their presence to a minimum. If it is possible to remove them and all traces of them from the property it is best for viewings but I understand that is not always going to happen. If your pets are snakes, lizards or spiders I strongly suggest they are relocated to a friends house because they have a tendency to make buyers uncomfortable.

My suggestion to sellers is to invite a friend or family member over and ask them to be completely honest and go room by room for a sniff test before placing your home on the market. Odours are often a deal-breaker for the potential buyer so do what you can to create the sweet smell of success when selling your home.

SMOKING IS THE MOST DIFFICULT ODOUR SITUATION TO DEAL WITH.

LAURA LE CREATIVE ENHANCEMENT INC. Laura Le has owned Creative Enhancement for about seven years. Laura completed courses with Accredited Staging Professionals (ASP), Canadian Staging Professionals (CSP) and Canadian ReDesign Association (CRDA).

Creative Enhancement has been a member of the BBB since 2005. Phone 403.807.8591 Email laurale@shaw.ca | www.creativeenhancement.ca

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OCT - NOV 2014 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 61

TIPSANDTRICKS

5

important window upgrade and renovations tips

by VANESSA GASH WINDOWS ARE AN IMPORTANT FEATURE

to consider when upgrading, renovating or expanding your home. As a home owner or renovator, it is important to know when a Building Permit is required from The City of Calgary, and what requirements must be met as per the Land Use Bylaw (LUB), and Alberta Building Code (ABC).

Here are five important things you should know before you begin your window renovations. Should you have any questions about City permit requirements, the ABC or LUB we can help, contact the Planning Services Call Centre at (403) 268-5311.

ABC requirements. This is to ensure that a free and clear opening exists to allow a person to escape, or a firefighter to enter in case of an emergency. To provide maximum flexibility the ABC represents this requirement as an area rather than listing specific allowable window sizes. Listing the minimum size as 0.35 m² (approx 3.77 sq ft) with no dimension less than 38cm (15”) allows us to choose the window type and size that best suit the situation. In newer basements the original builder often installs at least one 122cm x 81cm (48” x 32”) or 152cm x 61cm (60”x24”) slider that may be used for future basement development.

Upgrading existing windows

Basement windows

Installing new windows is a great way to give an older home a facelift. With so many window suppliers and options available today, it’s amazing the impact new windows can have in modernizing your home. One of the great advantages to replacing existing windows is the opportunity to install energy efficient units. New windows reduce winter drafts and provide the chance to install operable units for increased natural ventilation on warmer days. Low-e coatings can optimize passive solar heating and additional panes filled with alternate gases have been known to improve sound and thermal resistance. All of these options can help reduce utility costs and improve comfort. Since upgrading windows in existing openings is considered maintenance, a Building Permit is not required.

New window additions in your homes foundation walls are subject to certain ABC requirements, which require a Building Permit, and in some cases a letter from a professional engineer.

Individual openings may be cut in concrete foundation walls to a maximum of 4’-0” (48”x32”) in width.

Additionally, the combined total of all new and existing openings is not permitted to exceed 25% of the wall length. Openings that exceed either requirement are considered to be laterally unsupported, and require reinforcement designed by a professional engineer to ensure structural integrity of the wall. In these cases, your Building Permit will require a lateral support letter that outlines the design, which needs to be stamped and signed by a professional engineer registered in Alberta.

New window additions or expansions A Building Permit is required when adding a window where one presently doesn’t exist or when expanding the size of an existing window unit. For example, adding a bedroom requires one window in the room that will meet 62 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS OCT - NOV 2014

Basement window wells When planning to add basement windows, consider their placement. If the new window will be located partially or fully below the ground a window well is required. Window

wells have both LUB and ABC requirements: ›› In accordance with the ABC, bedroom window wells must be at least 550mm (22”) from the face of the opening for slider or inswing awning styles. Casement style windows must be able to open fully without restriction in the window well. Therefore these window wells vary and can be significantly larger. ›› In accordance with the LUB you must provide one 1.2m side yard along the side of your house that is free and clear of obstructions such as cantilevers, window wells and a/c units. Depending on the size of your property this may mean that you are only permitted these items along one side of your house. Where possible it is recommended to place window wells on the front and rear of the house to avoid these issues.

maximum amount of glass allowed by the ABC is 7% of the exposed building face, which is defined as the wall area from ground level to the uppermost ceiling. The maximum size of any one window in that face is 3.5%. As the distance to the property line increases so does the amount of glass allowed.

When considering any home upgrade or renovation, be sure you know all the requirements, and when a City permit might be required. We can help answer these questions as they relate to the Alberta Building Code (ABC) and Land Use Bylaw (LUB). Contact our Planning Services Call Centre (403) 268-5311, Monday to Friday 8:00 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. for any assistance you might need.

Adding side windows Many homes in Calgary are built to the maximum allowable width for their lot size. With houses located so close to the property line and neighbouring houses, the ABC restricts the amount of glass, unprotected openings, allowed on these walls for fire safety reasons.

Adding windows on the side of your home require a site plan and side elevation with your Building Permit application. On an average 1.2m (4’-0”) side yard the

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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FEATURE

LIVE

stylishly IN A SMALL SPACE

by PELOSO ALEXANDER DESIGN photos by ARNAL PHOTOGRAPHY

64 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS OCT - NOV 2014

LIVING IN A SMALL SPACE is certainly not a sentence to live without style or colour. You need to be judicious in your choices to make sure you end up with a space that functions well and still has style and design savvy.

In this particular space, we started with just 450 sq. ft. that presented like a square box divided into two rooms.

The finished product is very different. As this client will tell you, that is the advantage of working with a design firm. Occasionally, you will hear someone say that a small space doesn’t warrant professional help, but we would argue that you never needed it more than when every square inch counts.

We started in the living room and built in cabinets, to house the television and add a fireplace. The ethanol

GENERALLY IN A SMALLER SPACE, YOU WANT TO SELECT JUST ONE ACCENT COLOUR fireplace is suited to condo spaces and provides a focus for the room, along with ambience and heat in the winter months. The mouldings were added for detail and to add an element of class to an otherwise square box. The fireplace and television provide grounding to the room, around which the furniture can be placed. Generally in a smaller space, you want to select just one accent colour, and potentially a subordinate of that colour. This keeps the space interesting without the complexity of multiple colours.

This space is generally tones of grey for its major pieces but the carpet and the cushions in the strong chartreuse green provides ample colour. Blue paired with green undertones complement the accent colour with depth and layers to the decor.

The kitchen was recreated with cabinets in off-white, with appliances hidden under cabinetry to provide the open concept space with as few interruptions as possible. The hidden appliances imply that they could be cupboards suited to the living space, and thus allows the kitchen to esthetically borrow from the living room and vice versa. Affectively, both rooms seem larger as they visually overlap. The details of the cabinets were added to the existing door of the condo, to offer an old world rich feel. Simple mouldings were applied to the flat panel entrance door, bedroom and bathroom doors. The sink with its wall-mounted faucet solved the plumbing location issue, while concealing the sink’s function, well enough, so as not to command too much attention.

We created a glass whiteboard above the sink for hand written notes or any personal touches the homeowner would like to add. The green accents are also repeated into this room for cohesion.

In the bedroom, we wanted to create simple tranquility. The grey colour continues into this space and the pop of colour is found in the bedding and closet. We opted to leave the closet exposed to the room because it allowed us to provide the added function of the desk. We knew that the homeowner was fastidious enough to keep the clothes looking pristine and colour blocked so it would always be visually appealing. The adjoining bathroom of the condo OCT - NOV 2014 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 65

received an upgrade with a vanity, tower and lighting overhaul. These custom-made elements provided additional storage, making them worth the added cost.

A new mirror and side lighting provided that “hotel” bathroom feel and the simple white clean towels support the look.

This space that we called a “boring box” ended up as a classic well appointed home, perfect for our client. No one would say it lacked style or colour, and we achieved it all in just 450 sq. ft.

66 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS OCT - NOV 2014

GLEN PELOSO & JAMIE ALEXANDER Glen Peloso and Jamie Alexander are principal designers of Peloso Alexander. Both have extensive experience in commercial, hospitality and residential design and bring a combined 35 years of experience to every client space. They create environments that merge their clients lifestyle, personality and architecture.

Visit pelosoalexander.com

TIPSANDTRICKS

preventative

MAINTENANCE

by SHELL BUSEY PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE CAN SAVE A LOT OF TIME AND MONEY and

fall is a good time to begin assessing your home for any damage or repairs that may need attending to. Conducting a regular home inspection will help keep your house in good condition and maintain its value. Here is a list of maintenance items that can help you identify areas where work may be needed to ensure that minor repairs don’t turn into major expenses.

WINDOW & DOOR MAINTENANCE

Old caulking, missing weather stripping and poorly installed windows will increase your utility bills through lost

energy and make your heating system work longer than needed. Check for leaks around your windows and doors, especially near the corners. Check caulking and weather stripping on windows and doors for damage and replace as necessary. Remove the old caulking and clean out the opening. Apply a full even bead of caulking around all of the doors and windows.

BATHROOM Check caulking around sinks, bathtubs, and showers. Caulking can become brittle and therefore useless as a water seal. After removing the old caulking use a resilient silicone bathroom grade caulking, and do not forget the OCT - NOV 2014 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 67

edge of the tub at the floor and wall. If neglected, a tub enclosure with water damage can be a costly repair.

DRAINAGE Ensure that the ground

around your home slopes away from the foundation wall, so that water cannot seep towards the basement. Examine the foundation walls for cracks, leaks or signs of moisture, and repair as required.

The gutter and downspout system should keep water from pooling around the foundation. Be sure gutters and downspouts are kept open and in good repair and if necessary use downspout extensions.

HEATING SYSTEMS Have your furnace

or heating system serviced by a qualified service company once a year. It is wise to have this done during the off season when heating contractors aren’t as busy.

Check your furnace filter. If the filter accumulates household dust and is not replaced regularly, your furnace has to work harder to pull the air through the duct system. Clean or replace filters monthly during the heating season.

Have your chimney checked each fall before you use it.

68 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS OCT - NOV 2014

ATTIC VENTILATION Provide adequate attic ventilation so that the underside of the

roof and outside air is at the same temperature. Check to make sure attic insulation is not blocking the roof ventilation. Blocked soffit areas can create moisture buildup. Excessive frost or staining on the underside of the roof, or ice dams on the roof surface could be caused by a lack of proper ventilation in your attic or air leakage from your home’s living space into the attic area. A qualified energy advisor could perform an energy audit to indicate these deficiencies that can be remedied with proper insulation upgrades and draft sealing.

Homeowners that take the time to address routine maintenance items can minimize damage and prevent costly problems before they occur.

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.

November 3, 2013.

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

ADVERTISERS DIRECTORY Albi Renova

_______________________________________ 3

Kurmak Builders______________________________________ 48

Anna Sindrewicz (Cir Realty)___________________________ 23

Lakeview Floors______________________________________ 31

Artisan Kitchens & Renovations________________________ 55

Mi-Box Moving & Mobile Storage______________________ 61

Carshacks Garage Builders____________________________ 43

Michilieli Homes Inc.__________________________________ 70

Cardel Renos__________________________________________ 7 CHBA - Calgary Homexpo_____________________________ 14 Classic Craft Homes___________________________________ 56 Construct-It___________________________________________ 42 Enhance Your Home____________________________________ 9 Escape Inc.___________________________________________ 39 Floor Trendz Inc.______________________________________ 19 Gienow Renovations By Ply Gem______________________ 35

Overhead Door Company_____________________________ 27 Prestige Railings & Stairs Ltd __________________________ 35 Rossini Furniture_____________________________________ 14 Rusco Industries _____________________________________ 21 Sheila’s Window Toppers & More Ltd.__________________ 20 Shell Busey__________________________________________ 69 Spindle, Stairs & Railing Ltd ________________________ OBC

Hard Rock Developments______________________________ 44

S.I.S. Supply Install Services Ltd._______________________ 63

Interiors With Elegance_________________________________ 5

Trademark Renovations______________________________ IBC

Innovative Bed Systems_______________________________ 23

Ultimate Renovations _________________________________IFC

Kon-Strux Developments______________________________ 49

Wallace Fleming Design & Renovate ___________________ 25

Shell Busey’s House Smart Club

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

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

It’s just that easy!

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

™

Log onto

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

and follow the prompts.

OCT - NOV 2014 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 69

MARKETPLACE

To reserve space please call 403.461.5518

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403.478.0930

SPECIALIZE IN CUSTOM DESIGN AND HOME RENOVATIONS

www.michielihomes.ca rich@michielihomes.ca

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70 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS OCT - NOV 2014

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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