GTA Home Decor and Renovations - MAR 2014

FREE

MARCH 2014 VOLUME 10 ISSUE 1

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Fresh

DECOR IDEAS FOR SPRING Canada’s

HANDYMAN CHALLENGE

tell-all!

KitchenandBath

SPECIAL

Expert advice on revamping your space

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contents

VOLUME 10 ISSUE 01

MARCH 2014

32

26

In every issue

8 Editor’s Notebook 10 Contributors 12 Mailbag HD&R features

19 The Scoop Catch up on decor and reno news, inspiration, style and more

22 Edited Choice Traditional vs. trendy kitchen items

26 Trends 2014 See what’s trending in decor for the new year

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On the cover THE KITCHEN AND BATH ISSUE FREE

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Check out this refrigerator on page 22.

Fresh

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Expert advice on revamping your space

35

Photo courtesy o f We s t E l m .

Visit westelm.com

38

HD&R inspiration

32 Designer Feature Designer Laura Stein talks kitchen renovations

35 Style File Designer Yanic Simard inspires us with South Beach style

38 Designer Advice

HD&R renovation 42 Expert Q&A Canadaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Handyman Challenge tell-all

45 Reno Mark Why hire a professional renovator

46 ETcetera Stand-alone bathtub designs

Designer Sarah Barberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tips for creating a bathroom oasis

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EDITOR’SNOTEBOOK

Kitchen Confidential…

W

hen my husband and I moved into our first home, our kitchen was having a major identity crisis. It was stuck in the 1960s and in serious need of modernizing. But, alas, like most first-time homeowners, we didn’t have a lot of disposable income to spend on a complete kitchen renovation. The brown linoleum floors, yellow appliances and speckled green countertops continued to plague my dreams and seriously stifle my inner domestic goddess – until I just couldn’t handle the tackiness any longer. So, my husband and I brainstormed and came up with a plan. We decided to update the kitchen on a very limited budget, handling all the work ourselves and with the help of handy family and friends.

In a little less than six weeks, our dated dilemma was solved and I could enjoy sweet slumber once again. Here are some of the ways we saved money: Enlisted handy friends and family who knew electrical and tile work Sanded and painted our kitchen cabinets and added new hardware Chose classic, inexpensive subway tile for our backsplash Shopped at outlets for our appliances and scored great deals

This issue is all about inspiring and empowering you to take on that kitchen or bathroom renovation, and we have excellent information to guide you from design experts Laura Stein and Sarah Barber, starting on page 32. To get us over our winter blues, designer Yanic Simard takes us to South Beach, Miami on page 35 – where we warm up with great design!

At HD&R we are a firm believers that you don’t have to spend a million, to make something look like a million. If you’re embarking on a reno, or just looking to spruce up your space for spring, we hope you take time to enjoy our latest issue.

Thanks for reading,

Want more news on the home, decor and reno front?

Check out our blog: homedecorandrenovations.com

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

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

08 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS MARCH 2014

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dine beautifully...

Join us at any one of our four area showrooms: Mississauga 1825 Dundas St. E. [905] 629-7060

Toronto 35 Arrow Rd. [416] 743-1530

Scarborough 1355 Kennedy Rd. [416] 751-9853

Brampton 258 Queen St. E. [905] 456-1046 09

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ourinsiders

Vice-President, National Real Estate

Jacqueline Hill Editor-In-Chief, National Real Estate

Yanic Simard

Susan Legge

designer

Josh Heppner

Yanic Simard is the principal designer of the Toronto Interior Design Group. Specializing in residential and commercial projects, Simard often applies his signature high/low and old/new combination design techniques in developing unique designs. Simard has created designs for clients in Toronto, Montreal and Miami, and has appeared as a regular guest expert on Citytv’s CityLine. Visit tidg.ca

Director of Sales, National

Sales Manager, Home Décor and Renovations Condo Guide and GTA New Homes

Conni Robinson Art Director

Daiana Garay Managing Editor

Sara Duck Contributing Editors/Writers

Elisa Krovblit, Wayne Karl Media Consultant

Amanda Bell

Laura Stein

amanda.bell@wall2wallmedia.com

designer

Antoinette Jackson

Laura Stein Interiors is a Toronto-based firm specializing in custom interior decorating and design for residential clients. Laura’s focus is on fresh, lifestyle-based design infused with comfort and understated luxury.

She is one of Toronto’s most prominent and highly-visible decorating professionals, having won considerable acclaim for her personalized design style. Visit laurasteininteriors.com

Production Manager

Sales Co-Ordinator antoinette.jackson@wall2wallmedia.com

Bala Gnanapandithan Graphic Designer

Viosa Barileva Production Co-Ordinator

Greg Van Sluytman

Sarah Barber

Advertising Call 416.626.4200 for advertising rates and information.

Designer

Circulation ­Available monthly in select high-traffic street boxes, retailers, spas, banks, ­grocery stores, ­pharmacies, and selected financial ­institutions.

Sarah heads up Barber Design Shop, a Toronto based firm specializing in Interior Design, Architectural Design, and Project Management. Her design talent, sense of humor and superior organization make BDS a firm of recognition. The company motto is “Get To Work” because that is just what they do. Visit barberdesignshop.com

Copyright 2014 All rights reserved by Wall2Wall Media, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Reproduction in any form is ­prohibited. Contents of this publication are ­covered

by Copyright and offenders will be ­prosecuted under the law.

Terms Advertisers, Editorial Content and Home Décor and Renovations are not responsible for typographical errors, mistakes or ­misprints. All prices are correct as of press time and are subject to change without notice.

E. & O. E. Editorial Submissions from interested parties will be considered. Please submit to the address below, to the attention of the editor-in-chief.

Elisa Krovblit Contributing Editor

Published By

In love with design and decor, Elisa is a contributing editor at Home Decor and Renovations. When not searching out some unusual solutions to her century home’s reno projects, she’s busy looking for what’s hot and happening for every area of the home. elisa.krovblit@wall2wallmedia.com

#500-401 The West Mall Etobicoke, ON M9C 5J5 T 416.626.4200 F 416.784.5867 Please recycle this magazine! Wall2Wall Media participates in the Partner’s In Growth Reforestation Program through St. Joseph Communications. To date, Partners in Growth has planted over two million trees in parks, recreation and conservation areas, and other public spaces across Canada. Established in 1990, this program was started with Scouts Canada to help replenish the environment.

10 Home Decor and Renovations MARCH 2014

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MAILBAG

MARCH 2014

Write and win! Let us know what you think of this issue of HD&R and you could win an incredible bouquet from The Stem Flower Market OUR GIVEAWAY WILL BRING A LITTLE SPRING INTO YOUR HOME WITH A LUCIOUS FLORAL ARRANGEMENT! STEMFLOWERMARKET.COM Fragrant and refreshing, flowers are a thing of beauty – made even more dramatic by a truly talented florist. Infusing a sense of whimsy and charm into each creation, The Stem Flower Market features simple yet sophisticated bouquets and arrangements that brighten a room – and your day – with natural splendour.

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WINNER

TOGETHER AGAIN

DECOR INSPIRATION

After not being able to find your magazine for months now, I picked up a copy at the One-of-a-Kind show and could hardly wait to get home to savour it. I feel much better now. Thanks! Also, Blundstone’s are the best, my husband has had a pair for 10 years and he swears by their comfort and durability.

Whenever I am out walking I am on the hunt for your magazine, it’s always a good day when I find the current issue. My treat is then to curl up and look for inspiration. In the October issue, I loved the gorgeous sofa in the Mid-Century article. The pages are saved and placed in my folder for my living room project.

Ilona

Sue Banton

Keep up the good work!

FIRST-TIMER I have just finished reading the latest edition of Home Decor & Renovations. I’m a first-timer with your mag but I’ll be watching for the next edition. My husband and I are in the midst of downsizing from a large family home to a condo and I really liked the article with Kirsten Korhani.

Thanks!

Molly Kriksic

GOOD FROM START TO FINISH

Congratulations!

Ilona is the winner of a pair of Blundstone’s and glerups.

Visit blundstone.ca; glerups.ca

Your magazine is a pleasant one from the first page to the last. I read through it once, then once again (but this time not so fast). The second time I savoured it. I admire the stylish tone, the good ideas, the lucid prose (I know I’m not alone).

Thank you, HD&R Desmond Ellis

Winners must e-mail susan.legge@wall2wallmedia.com or call 416.626.4212 and arrange to pick up their prize at our head office.

write to us HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS C/O MAILBAG 401 The West Mall, Suite 500 Etobicoke, ON, M9C 5J5

All Mailbag letters are subject to editing for clarity and length

FAX US C/O MAILBAG 416.784.5867

EMAIL US C/O MAILBAG susan.legge@wall2wallmedia.com

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Custom Furnishings, Bedrooms, Dining Rooms, Sofas, Dinettes

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Advertorial

A Modular Milestone After 13 years, Modular Home Additions is about to celebrate The Big 1,000 project mark.

This highly acclaimed milestone, is one that few home renovation companies can claim and they have hit it in less than 15 years. Modular is showing no signs of slowing down.

So, how can one renovation company cover so much ground, especially when considering the various logistics involved with a home addition or new build, not to mention the less than ideal building conditions Canadians are faced with for roughly 6 months of the year?

Best of 2013 in Toronto Home Additions Category Aside from their quick turnover time, Modular is on the final stretch to the 1,000 project mark thanks to their best marketing tool ever; honest reviews from actual clients. Many of their clients have not only sent referrals their way, but they have also taken the time to write glowing reviews about the company on the popular website, Homestars.com, a site which offers those searching for a contractor honest reviews about available companies in their areas.

Due to incredible feedback from their clients last year, Modular Home Additions has won Best of 2013 in Toronto in the Home Additions Category. Add this to being voted “Best in Town” 4 years in a row.

The answer lays within the unique Modular approach to traditional home renovations and new builds. It is this process that can allow for a new home addition to be installed in a matter of just 3 days! Further to this, clients of Modular’s are not forced to pick up their lives and move into a different space while renovations are occurring. The company’s “no mess, no stress” allows for a smooth, quick renovation process as well as the avoidance of your property becoming a long-term construction site.

A One-Stop Shop

“Marketing to get new business is one thing, and so is offering a different way of doing things that can simplify the lives of our clients. However, it is the positive reviews from our clients that we truly believe have helped us get to this point and we are so grateful to everyone who has taken the time to write about their experience with us,” says Vladeta Jericevic, president and CEO. “Here’s to 1,000 more projects and 1,000 more happy customers!”

How is it possible for a renovation company to advertise a “no mess, no stress” renovation?

By tackling the majority of the process away from the actual job site. After consulting with the Modular team, your home is assessed, the next step involves designing the project and sorting out permits, which the team at Modular will also handle.

In order to maintain their clean and quick promise, Modular Home Additions builds the majority of each project offsite in its Toronto controlled environment warehouse. Not only does this mean the bulk of the work is done away from your home, it also means that home additions and projects can occur year-round, in spite of Canada’s chilly winter climate.

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t: (416) 759 4663 f: (416) 759 9563

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Grow Your Home In 3 Days Thank You from Modular Free iPad to follow your project

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NEWSETC.

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

by S ARA DU CK

Turn your favourite spring outfit into your next room inspiration. We love this bright and bold ensemble from J.Crew and think the bold orange would create a fun backdrop to a space in your home.

Photo courtesy of J.Crew.

VISIT JCREW.COM

Charlotte’s Locks No.268 Estate Emulsion Paint. $95. VISIT FARROW-BALL.COM

{ SCOOP the LOOK! {

Wall Art. $35.

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Ombre Velvet Pillow. $188–$198.

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Beaded Crystal Lamp. $389.

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HOME trends! slate appliances

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IFYOUARELOOKINGTOINSTANTLYUPDATE YOURKITCHENORBATHROOMWITHOUTA MAJORRENOPROJECT,TRYINCORPORATING SOMEOFTHELATESTDESIGNTRENDSLIKE SLATECOLOUREDAPPLIANCESANDGOLD FIXTURES INTO YOUR SPACE.

Devonshire Centerset Lavatory Faucet. $171. VISIT KOHLER.CA Free Standing Electric Range. $1,199. VISIT GEAPPLIANCES.CA

Handmade in Canada since 1995, Memory Blocks are the original collectible wall plaques. Enhance your space by choosing a motif tailored to your style!

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Enjoy sweet dreams every night in this gorgeous Positano Sleigh Bed from Alta Moda. This bed is made in Canada and available in Queen and King sizes and different finishes.

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The Stem Flower Market offers floral artistry. Simple and sophisticated, aromatic and earthy, the bouquets and arrangements from this floral boutique are nothing short of stunning.

VISIT STEMFLOWERMARKET.COM

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BEFORE

AFTER

A home’s exterior is only as strong as its weakest component.

Wood-based trim products may rot, curl, warp or split from extended exposure to moisture, creating unwanted maintenance or replacement costs for homeowners. HardieTrim boards are as tough as James Hardie siding. When used together, they enable the entire home to be on the same long maintenance cycle.

Bella Notte Fine Linens are now available at Maple Drapery King Design Studio. Their Spring collection will be arriving soon, and you won’t want to miss their gorgeous designs!

VISIT JAMESHARDIE.COM

VISIT MAPLEDRAPERY.COM

Emma Salad Plates & Snack Bowls. $7-$15 EACH. VISIT POTTERYBARN.COM

trending:

Forsla Plate in Lilac. $8. VISIT IKEA.CA

Coloured TABLEWARE!

Artisanal Soup Bowl in Blue Antique. $9. VISIT CHAPTERS.INDIGO.CA

{ PSSST! { Allan Rug Company has now become an exclusive distributor of the Steven & Chris new line of area rugs. Check out their showroom to view these beautifully crafted rugs in the latest designs and colours.

Check out Metropolitan Tile & Stone’s showroom for thousands of tiles to choose from, including glass, marble and everything in between – it’s a one-stop tile shop.

VISIT METROPOLITANTILE.CA

VISIT ALLANRUG.COM

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EDITedCHOICE

traditional or

trendy

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

2

1

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3 3

4

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6 5 1. 26.6 Cu.Ft. French Door Refrigerator in Stainless Steel by Electrolux. $2,700. Visit sears.ca 2. Providence Four Light Bronze Incandescent Pendant with Clear Glass by Illumine. $222. Visit homedepot.ca 3. Copper Artichoke Handle Braiser, 6-Qt by Ruffoni. $460. Visit williams-sonoma.com 4. 1.7L Classic Whistling Kettle in Red by Le Creuset. $130. Visit thebay.ca 5. Belle Boulevard 13-Inch Oval Platter

by Kate Spade New York. $250. Visit bedbathandbeyond.ca 6. French Kitchen Island. $1,499. Visit crateandbarrel.ca

6 1. Soneca Pendant. $169. Visit cb2.com 2. Refrigerator in Red by SMEG. $1,999. Visit westelm.com 3. The Tea Maker. $300. Visit breville.ca 4. Kobenstyle White Four-Quart Casserole by Dansk. $110. Visit crateandbarrel.ca 5. Mango Wood Medium Platter. $22. Visit chapters.indigo.ca 6. Cabin Kitchen Island. $1,199.

Visit westelm.com

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Pantone — the leading authority on colour — released its 2014 Colour of the Year: Radiant Orchid. This beautiful purple hue with rosy pink undertones is a great colour to play with in your home, and pairs well with teal, yellow and neutrals. “Radiant Orchid reaches across the colour wheel to intrigue the eye and spark the imagination,” says Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute.

#stylereport

What’s trending in decor for 2014? We’ve curated a collection of the hottest styles to get your decorating juices flowing for the new season.

BY SARA DUCK

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WE ARE SO INSPIRED BY THIS DESIGN DECADE.

Photo by Jan Baldwin courtesy of the Farrow & Ball Decorating with Colour book. By Ros Bryan Shaw, published by Ryland Peters & Small.

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Designerfeature

A Contemporary

Kitchen t Reno r a e h e h t from

by Laura Stein photos by David Bagosy

others, and this project hit close. Really close. Not only were my clients extremely particular and demanding about all aspects of the design, they were also my parents. After 35 years of living in the house I grew up in, they had enough of all the stair climbing, yard work and maintenance involved in keeping up their home. The house was sold with all the nostalgia and mixed emotions that usually accompany such a life change, and they decided to purchase a condo. After my old room had been cleaned out,

Some projects hit a little closer to home than

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High gloss custom cabinets were installed in grey and white, and CaesarStone counters that look like marble provide a beautiful, maintenance-free work surface

hot kitchen trends for 2014:

1. Motion sensor faucets 2. Smart appliances 3. Automated cabinetry 4. Oversized fridges 5. L arge, statement-piece light fixtures

repainted and staged, I had to get over it fast and focus on my next task â&#x20AC;&#x201C; creating a new home for my parents that they would enjoy for the next chapter of their lives.

The building they chose had been built in the early 1980s, and the unit had never been updated. Although the kitchen was a good size, the original finishes were worn and dated, the cabinets small and the appliances

in poor condition. The entire condo, including the kitchen, was renovated before they moved in.

As an avid cook, my mother was concerned about having a functional kitchen with lots of counter and storage space. She wanted the room to be bright and airy, with sleek contemporary cabinetry. The kitchen was gutted â&#x20AC;&#x201C; floor, walls and ceiling â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and we started from scratch. I can still hear the echo of my march 2014 Home DEcor and Renovations 33

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contractor’s warning, “This one better be perfect, or you’ll be hearing about it for the next 30 years.” The pressure was on.

The first challenge was the concrete construction of the building and the condo board rules. We had no choice but to leave the sink, stove and fridge in their existing locations, limiting the layout options for the room. My mom, however, wanted to increase the amount of storage, add a wine fridge, an attractive range hood and a built-in microwave. I had to find a way to create extra space where there was none before.

We were able to check off everything on my parents’ list by closing off the entrance to the adjoining room, (which was converted from the dining room to an office for my dad), creating more space for storage and appliances. The peninsula was moved out towards the window, giving us room for an additional cabinet next to the sink. The depth of the peninsula was also increased to allow for storage on all three sides, and plenty of counter space for cooking and baking.

With the layout settled, we set about creating the contemporary look my parents were after. The dropped ceiling was removed to create a more open feeling and new track lighting was added to properly illuminate the space. High gloss custom cabinets were installed in grey and white, and CaesarStone counters that look like marble provide a beautiful, maintenance-free work surface. Extra large porcelain tiles were used on the floor to create the illusion of an even bigger space.

For the backsplash, my mother wanted the simple, clean look of a marble slab, but it didn’t fit in the budget. To get the look without the price, we installed large marble tiles. Each tile is the same height as the distance between the counter and the upper cabinets, so there is little interruption in the veining of the marble.

My parents are now happily settled into their new condo. Like in the old house, the kitchen is the heart of their new home. It took no time for my mother to get back into her routine of hosting large family dinners, cooking and baking up a storm. “It’s amazing,” she told me recently. “I love my kitchen, and it’s even better than my old one.” Phew! Another demanding client satisfied. And it’s a good thing… this one has a key to my house!

Kitchen

Tips and Tricks:

1

Using two different colours for kitchen cabinets can help create a more dynamic and balanced space. In this kitchen, we used light grey cabinets on the sink side of the room to provide contrast with the dark counters and white backsplash. We used white on the opposite side where the cabinets run floor to ceiling.

2

Most kitchens require bulkheads for ventilation ducts. By hiding them inside the upper cabinets you can achieve a higher-end, more custom look. Here, we built the cabinets, around the bulkheads and extended the doors in front of them to create the illusion that the cabinets go all the way to the ceiling. The taller cabinets add to the sleek look.

3

Large floor tiles can trick the eye into making a room seem bigger than it is, as long as the room isn’t tiny. In very small spaces such as powder rooms, large tiles can have the opposite effect. Be sure you can fit at least three full tiles across the width of the floor.

4

Instead of cabinets with doors, use large, deep drawers in your base cabinets. They allow you to store more items, can be organized with dividers and inserts, and are much easier to access.

5

Make the best use of corners by installing LeMans units.

These handy gizmos make use of space that is otherwise lost, and pull all the way out of the cabinet for easy access. No more crawling on your hands and knees to find something buried all the way at the back.

Construction:

Bramson Construction Cabinetry:

Diamond Custom Cabinetry

Laura Stein Laura Stein Interiors is a Toronto-based firm specializing in custom interior decorating and design for residential clients. Laura’s focus is on fresh, lifestyle-based design infused with comfort and understated luxury. She is one of Toronto’s most prominent and highly-visible decorating professionals, having won considerable acclaim for her personalized design style.

Visit laurasteininteriors.com

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STYLEFILE

STYLEFILE

south BEACH

style

tHis FriGiD temPeratUre Has me DaYDreaminG

about my trip last year to The James Royal Palm in Miami, Florida. Not only was it the perfect winter getaway, the trip was filled with tons of design inspiration, that I just have to share. The hotel is designed by the hospitality mavens at Rottet Studio, the expansive propertyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s many interiors carry the intimacy of a boutique hotel, achieved through the attention to detail, exquisite materials and healthy collection of unique artworks. Despite featuring nearly 400 rooms, every one of them feels like a personal oasis.

products by Yanic simarD photos by tHe James roYaL PaLm

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Rebranded as part of The James hotel family in November 2012, the freshly renovated spaces draw from the Art Deco roots and Miami culture to create a friendly, relaxing and breathtaking luxury getaway that could not be more “now.” Follow these inspirational guidelines to bring South Beach style home with you.

01 White from the Start White and very light beige gives an airier atmosphere than mid tones, and won’t absorb heat, lending a cooler look and feel. It also allows you to emphasize other elements, such as a beautiful view framed between simple white sheers. The hotel’s suite ceilings, walls, integrated columns and window mullions are all whiteon-white, letting the bright blue sky act as a piece of art.

02 Miami Spice Because too much white can be sterile, you’ll now want to bring in some pops of light-hearted Miami colours (such as bright teal blues, pastel pinks and lime greens).

The James is brimming with stunning paintings and installations, and oversized art is a lasting trend that can make a great long-term investment. Even many of the

Because too much white can be sterile, you’ll now want to bring in some pops of light-hearted Miami colours (such as bright teal blues, pastel pinks and lime greens). flatscreen televisions are almost framed like modern artworks, with mirror surrounds de-emphasizing the technology and opening the room even further. Don’t forget the floors – the hotel mimics the azure vistas with rich blue carpets in swirling geometric patterns to let that skyline reach in and surround you.

03 A Seat with a View Miami style is all about luxury and making a splash, and nothing says luxe like plush, oversized seating. Even a compact home space can create this look by choosing materials that command attention, making each piece of furniture an invitation to lounge.

The James uses vibrant seat pads and pillows to add bursts of colour in the bedrooms, and the public spaces see bold tropical leaf and paint-stroke motifs to put all eyes on the plush sofas and chairs. Apply their technique of using neutrals for upholstered arms to keep wild patterns from overwhelming the space.

04 Wild Inside When the outdoors is as beautiful as Miami’s beaches, you’ll want to bring some of that vibe inside! Rattan chairs aren’t restricted to patios – try them for your breakfast table or one in your own sleeping quarters. Touches of cotton, linen and jute bring in rich texture, and of course no conversation about The James could be complete without a mention of the beautiful woods. Modern

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1

2

1 stockholm chair in walnut Veneer. $149. visit iKea.ca

2 glass Jug large pendant. $795. visit eLte.com

3 ValBorg cushion coVer in Blue and green. $7. visit iKea.ca

4 moeBius taBle. $660. visit DWr.com Product sourcing by sara DUcK

3 4 wood walls make wide-open spaces more intimate, while dark-grained details on chairs, coffee tables and chests keep the palette earthy – you’ll find very little chrome in this collection, and even the exteriors are clad in limestone. It seemed every space was alive with potted plant life, and I was especially taken with the miniature cactus gardens in each suite. Cleverly, these terrariums are both visually appealing because of their exotic nature (especially to those of us from northern climates), and also very easy to take care of, so they last much longer than a cut bouquet.

05 non-linear thinKinG Besides the evocative paintings, The James uses small, unique details to give each space character and personality. Wiring for hanging pendants create curling abstract forms rather than running straight up the wall, and similar freeform lines in long hallway carpets are mirrored on the ceilings for a truly unique and eye-catching detail. Tongue-in-cheek CTRL ALT DEL

keyboard pillows spread on my bedroom banquet add visual interest and make light of the workplace I had left behind. At the end of the day, you have to remember not to take your style too seriously – after all, Miami is about having fun! After you’ve carefully edited and selected, toss in one thing that just makes you smile and relax.

The work is over, and it’s time to rest and enjoy the season – South Beach style!

Yanic simarD is the principal designer of the toronto interior design group. specializing in residential and commercial projects, simard often applies his signature high/ low and old/new combination design techniques in developing unique designs. simard has created designs for clients in toronto, montreal and miami, and has appeared as a regular guest expert on citytv’s cityline. for more information visit tidg.ca march 2014 Home Decor anD renovations 37

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DESIGNERADVICE

custom

bathroom

OASIS

by SARAH BARBER photo by AMELIA MCGOLDRICK

DO YOU DREAM OF A CUSTOM BATHROOM OASIS IN YOUR OWN HOME? Is your must-have a cosy heated floor, a steam shower, or perhaps a big soaker tub and a TV? With all the new products and technology available, your perfect bathroom has never been easier to achieve.

Essentially, there are two ways to accomplish this – construction, or no construction. Before we get to that, let’s go over some of the basics.

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First and foremost, don’t start shopping and placing orders until you have a plan.

Knowing the “big picture” is the single best way to make your dream a reality and stay on budget. If your project does include construction, hire a professional designer or architect. This will not only save you money, but also time and headaches, and bring comfort knowing your home is being built safely and within building codes.

Next, research conceptual images and determine what you like, what you don’t like and what your style is. Also, get creative, don’t just copy something exactly from a magazine – add your own custom element to create personality. This could be a vintage chest converted to a sink console, a newly upholstered vanity chair, a unique chandelier or a series of framed, personal, photography.

And don’t forget monogrammed bathroom linens!

Storage – take inventory of your bathroom items and plan a space for literally everything.

The only items visible should be ones that make you smile or keep you calm. Don’t have space? Build some. It’s that important.

Nobody can walk into their bathroom and truly feel content with a clutter of toothpaste, blow dryers, hairbrushes, contact lens solution and flat irons. In the very least, buy some pretty glass containers and make your cotton balls and Q-tips a display. Just promise me you’ll store anything with a cord.

When you do start shopping, you will find there are so many new bathroom technologies!

You might just find your dream item is a TV mirror, a washlet toilet or a digital shower. This will help you decide where to spend and where to save. Your designer will help you with all the details and bring your personal dream bathroom to life.

SARAH BARBER Sarah heads up Barber Design Shop, a Toronto based firm specializing in Interior Design, Architectural Design, and Project Management.

Her design talent, sense of humor and superior organization make BDS a firm of recognition. The company motto is “Get To Work” because that is just what they do. Visit barberdesignshop.com

If you’ve decided to get involved in construction, find a good contractor and consider these options:

If you’d prefer to add some touches yourself, consider these ideas:

1. Examine your layout and remove walls or expand to accommodate a better flow.

2. Install a relaxing steam shower with a bench, or a luxury whirlpool tub.

3. Radiant heat or a heated towel rack has a major impact.

4. A double sink is extremely convenient. An integrated Corian countertop and sink is extremely sexy.

5. Keep your finishes elegant and timeless. Think marble, wood and polished nickel.

6. Lighting is key – add new recessed potlights, a chandelier, or even a skylight.

Direct diffused lighting is best at the vanity, find some gorgeous wall sconces.

7. And don’t forget to build the essential storage!

1. Replace your existing fixtures – faucets, hardware and toilet.

2. Add a dimmer switch to your lighting.

3. Find a gorgeous one-of-a-kind mirror.

4. Keep your decorative items to a minimum and make sure they enhance your bathing experience – scented oils, candles and music.

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ExpertQ&A

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EXPERTq&a

n a M y D n a H S ’ a D c a na llEnGE tell-all! cH a

handymen ce the ultimate UL LaFran a P D n a Y Livra cott mcGiL s , r e d season of L ir m th U e ir a e B th n n a Y so Br d the scene in e h e b s u e k ta an challeng m y d n a h ’s a canad UcK by sara D

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Canada’s Handyman Challenge is in its third season – what can viewers expect?

Bryan: This season is all about bigger challenges and bigger personalities.

We had some real characters this year, crazy weather and some interesting group dynamics.

Scott: First of all, we tapped into some new Canadian cities such as Calgary and Winnipeg, where we’d never been before. That brought all types of new talents and energy to the season, which was great. The other thing that was interesting was the outcome of this season – it was very unexpected. There were guys who I pinned to win from the beginning who got eliminated early, which allowed some others to emerge. It was unpredictable. Nothing you think is going to happen does. There were a couple villains as well. It was the first time we had that on the show.

In a nutshell, one of the biggest differences this season is that we are having a lot more fun. In each individual city, the challenges have been designed to not only test the skill level of our contestants but also the limits of their imagination. For me personally, the ability to be creative on the fly is something that I look for in Canada’s top handyman.

Paul:

In each individual city the challenges have been designed to not only test the skill level of our contestants but also the limits of their imagination

What is it like working together?

Bryan: I grew up with two older brothers, so I was always the baby and never had any younger siblings. I now feel like I know what it’s like to have two little annoying brothers follow you around and harass you all day. The good news is they don’t follow me home!

Scott It’s awful (laughs). Seriously, we’re all friend, so it’s good.

We’re all in this for the same reasons. We’re trying to help people who should be in the trades, get into the trades. Bryan and I have been friends for a while, so we always have a good time and it’s great to hang out with Paul. You never know what’s going to happen when one of us doesn’t agree with the other two (which is often the case with me).

Paul: It is like hanging out with your brothers for a full month, which means a lot of banter, a lot of practical jokes and a whole lot of fun. Each one of us brings something different to the table.

While we don’t always agree, this is part of what makes CHC an enjoyable experience. I love a good debate!

Do you have a memorable moment from this season?

Bryan: There was one challenge that we were all really excited for, the contestants really went for it, but the results were not what we expected. You’ll have to watch the show!

Scott: When we were in Calgary, I laughed so hard when we had to do the strongman ringing-of-the-bell competition and Paul couldn’t ring the bell once. He tried so many times and it was so funny. There were a lot of wipe-outs and crashes this season. Paul came crashing down once and it was scary for a second, but it ended up being pretty funny.

Paul: There are almost too many to choose just one. However, I will certainly never forget the look of terror on both Scott’s and Bryan’s faces during one particular challenge. You will know it when you see it.

What’s impressed you most about this group of contestants so far?

Bryan: We’ve got a great variety of characters this year, from all across the country.

Scott: The teamwork. There was more teamwork than we’ve ever had before. They worked so well together and managed to do some pretty incredible stuff.

Paul: It is always memorable when I see a group of contestants who are all there to win and yet they form an amazing camaraderie with each other and even fight for each other. This was more evident than ever in this season of CHC. You can always judge the quality of talent based on how difficult it is to send someone home. This year we had to make some of the most difficult cuts in the history of the show.

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The great thing about having three judges is we all have a different opinion of what qualities constitute Canada’s top handyman What does it mean to be a true “handyman”?

Bryan: It’s not skill, precision or perfection that define a true handyman – it’s a love for working with your hands and creating or repairing something useful out of a variety of materials. It’s about trying new things, challenging yourself and having an innovative spirit.

Scott: A handyman is someone who has both the desire and the skill to fix and repair and build just about anything.

Paul:

I am looking for passion and skill, but mostly I am looking for someone willing to step out of their comfort zone and take a risk because those are the people who truly discover what they capable of.

How do you think homeowners can release their inner handyman spirit?

Bryan: Go get some tools, watch some HGTV for inspiration and go for it!

Scott: Homeowners who watch the show can identify with the contestants and what we do on the show. A lot of the people who show up at auditions watched last year and thought they can do it, too. When you see things that you think you could be good at, it’s time to try out.

Paul: That’s an easy one! Remember what it was like to be a kid. Whether it was building forts in the backyard, a go-cart or even a project for the science fair, what people forget about developing the skill to fix things on your own is that it is not only incredibly rewarding, but it can also be a lot of fun.

Watch Canada’s Handyman Challenge Tuesday’s at 10 p.m on HGTV. Visit hgtv.ca

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RENOMARK

Why hire a

professional renovator

by Bryan Tuckey Taking on a home renovation project can be

an enjoyable and financially rewarding experience – if it’s done properly, that is.

But a renovation gone wrong can be stressful, both emotionally and financially. And while some home renovations are easier than others, more often than not, it’s best left to the professionals like a RenoMark renovator.

Founded by BILD in 2001, RenoMark is a program that raises the bar, and consumers can easily identify professional renovators and contractors who have committed to the program’s requirements and standards. The program has now been embraced coast to coast in nine provinces and more than 40 communities.

Another reason BILD started the program was to educate consumers and help combat the underground economy. It is estimated that the average government revenue losses from underground activity in home renovations across Ontario between 2007 and 2009 ranged from $1.4 to $2.4 billion per year.

Across the nation, the renovation industry is a $66billion industry, according to an Altus Group report.

The national home builders’ association has been advocating for a permanent federal home renovation tax credit equal to 2.5 per cent of the total cost of the renovation.

The national home builders’ association has been advocating for a permanent federal home renovation tax credit equal to 2.5 per cent of the total cost of the renovation. It will benefit homeowners in the existing stock of homes in the GTA, which are ripe for renovation, and part of our job as the local home builders’ association is to advocate for consumers.

A federal tax credit that encourages consumers to use professional contractors and get everything in writing will also protect consumers from illegitimate operators looking to do cash deals and evade paying

tax. It’s important that you and your family are protected and working with a professional who has a solid reputation with proof of proper business practices and insists on a written contract outlining the job is a good place to start.

Here in the GTA, more than 250 RenoMark contractors have agreed to a 10-point renovationspecific Code of Conduct that includes returning all telephone calls within two business days, offering a minimum two-year warranty on all work, carrying a minimum of $2 million in liability insurance, and providing a detailed written contract or scope of work for all jobs.

If you visit the newly-redesigned renomark.ca, there is a searchable database by region and by type of project to help you get started in the research phase, as well as a RenoGuide with helpful hints and tips to planning a successful project.

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

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ETCETERA

shopping When you do start g are so many t, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t start shoppin you will find there First and foremos gies! You until you have a plan. new bathroom technolo and placing orders best dream item pictureâ&#x20AC;? is the single might just find your Knowing the â&#x20AC;&#x153;big keep toilet, dream a reality and is a TV mirror, a washlet way to make your include This will help project does or a digital shower. it in budget. If your and designer or spend onal to professi where a you decide construction, hire money, designer not only save you where to save. Your architect. This will all the details es, and bring comfort will help you with but also time, headach and safely dream l built being persona is and bring your knowing your home to life. codes. bathroom building within ual images and Next, research concept donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t like, you like, what you determine what , is. Also, get creative and what your style a ing exactly from donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just copy someth own custom element magazine â&#x20AC;&#x201C; add your could be a vintage This lity. to create persona , a newly to a sink console chest converted er, chair, a unique chandeli upholstered vanity aphy. personal photogr or a series of framed monogrammed And donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget bathroom linens! bathroom your of y Storage â&#x20AC;&#x201C; take inventor everything. space for literally items and plan a should be ones that The only items visible Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t /@03@ O A/@/6 0/@03@ ]^ :B2 O or keep you calm.

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soaker tub a a cosy heated floor, , your perfect bathroom Is your must-have and technology available the new products and a TV? With all no to achieve. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; construction, or has never been easier accomplishing this are two ways of the basics.

Essentially there go over some of we get to that, letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Before tion. construc

r and find a good contracto in construction, to get involved If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve decided consider these options: better flow. accommodate a walls or expand to tub. layout and remove or a luxury whirlpool 1. Examine your shower with a bench, steam impact. relaxing is 2. Install a makes a major countertop and sink a heated towel rack 3. Radiant heat or t. An integrated Corian is extremely convenien 4. A double sink and polished nickel.

Think marble, wood, extremely sexy. skylight. elegant and timeless. potlights, a chandelier, or even a 5. Keep your finishes recessed wall sconces. in here â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Add new find some gorgeous 6. Lighting is key is best at the vanity, Direct diffused lighting the essential storage! to build 7. And donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget

add some touches If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d prefer to these ideas: yourself, consider fixtures â&#x20AC;&#x201C; faucets, 1. Replace your existing etc. hardware, toilet, switch to your lighting.

2. Add a dimmer one of a kind mirror.

3. Find a gorgeous al items to a 4. Keep your decoration sure they enhance minimum and make e â&#x20AC;&#x201C; scented oils, your bathing experienc candles, and music.

inspiration

OUR on pg 38

rub-a-dub

DUB

A LAST WORD ON A HOT TREND

by ELISA KROVBLIT The bathtub has always been a workhorse with a really embattled identity. For 'shower people,' the tub is really a non-issue, it's there to catch water. For 'bath people,' it's all about depth and comfort. But for designers, it's a focal point â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and tub design has really taken its place at the top of chic bathroom trends.

Whether you're a 'bath person' or a 'shower person,' you can't deny the aesthetic â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it's a statement maker!

While the Victorians were onto something with their elegant ball-and-claw style foot, deep soaking basin and gently curling lip, stand-alone options today have evolved to ďŹ t your bathroom's style.

tip:

These stand-alone tubs allow for the drain and hardware to be on the end or in the middle â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a great style option. Fabulous hardware completes the look.

Contemporary and sophisticated, the coordinating trim adds to the strong modern design lines.

RĂŠvo freestanding bath, brilliant ash base. $4,533.

Visit kohler.ca

Elegant lines and subtle curves, it's the perfect cross between Roman bath and modern soak.

Roman F. $4,935.

Visit maax.com

SMALL BATHROOM? NO PROBLEM. STAND-ALONE TUBS ARE AVAILABLE IN A VARIETY OF SIZES TO SUIT YOUR SPACE.

The round shape and curled lip of the Victorian era have been reďŹ ned with modern elegance.

St. George â&#x20AC;&#x201C; DXV by American Standard. $5,250. Visit dxv.com

46 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS MARCH 2014

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