Design Quarterly Winter 2011 by MediaEdge

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contents

WINTER 2011 Vol. 11 No.3 www.designquarterly.ca PUBLISHER Dan Gnocato dang@mediaedge.ca Managing Editor Cheryl Mah Graphic Designers Shannon Swanson, Cory Dawson CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Heidi Balshaw, Jay Brooks, Brad Carpenter, Roger Gripton, Karen Gustafson, Kevin Hall, Robert Koby, Angie Paul Dedre Toker B.C./ALBERTA SALES Dan Gnocato 604.739.2115 ext. 223

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PRESIDENT Kevin Brown

06 Designer Profile

vancouver office

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10 Project Profile

Toronto office

1000-5255 Yonge St. Toronto, ON M2N 6P4 Tel: 416.512.8186 Fax: 416.512.8344

As principal of BYU Design, Ada Bonini is one of Vancouver’s top interior designers.

West Pender Place is one of the last luxury condos to be built in Coal Harbour. With its sculptured form and creased glass walls, it brings a new look to the waterfront neighbourhood.

Features 18 Colour

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Bold and Bright Colours are Back

22 Fireplaces

Fireplace to Fire Feature Contemporary Gas Fires A Warming Trend

26 Tile & Stone

Fresh and Fashionable Hot Tile Trends Tile Style

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33 Lighting

Jewels of Decor Smart Lighting Design

departments 04 From the Editor Travel Bug 36 Architects in Alberta Upgrading Aging Buildings 37 IDIBC No Reservations Required 38 Design Headlines ON THE COVER: West Pender Place is the newest luxury condo complex in Coal Harbour. Photo: Martin Tessler

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November 8 & 9, 2011 The purpose of Design Quarterly is to reflect and represent practitioners and professionals in the architectural, interior design and design resource communities throughout British Columbia and Alberta. Winter 2011 | DESIGN QUARTERLY 3

::::::: from the editor :::::::

travel bug

got bitten by the travel bug at a young age. I was fortunate that my parents could afford an annual family trip and then when I got older, I traveled with friends. But no matter where I went, I always look forward to coming home. Vancouver has been consistently ranked as the best city to live and for many good reasons — mild weather, breathtaking scenery and amazing recreational and cultural diversity. Residents who will be moving into West Pender Place in Coal Harbour will certainly be enjoying the best of what the city has to offer. Located just steps from the waterfront, West Pender Place is one of the last luxury condo complexes to be built in the upscale neighbourhood. As our project profile, we take a look behind the scenes and talk with the architect and interior designer about the details that have resulted in a distinctive design. Our designer profile, Ada Bonini, is no stranger to multi-unit residential projects. As principal and co-founder of BYU Design, she has worked on many prominent condo projects across the Lower Mainland. Only 36-years-old, she has grown her boutique firm into a highly successful one.

Also in this issue is a full line up of articles ranging from colour trends and lighting to fireplaces and tiles and stone. For our focus on fireplaces, industry experts discuss the growing trend of outdoor fire pits, evolution of custom fireplaces and the ongoing popularity of gas fireplaces. Heidi Balshaw, a lighting product specialist for B.A Robinson, highlights some great new ideas in lighting, while Kevin Hall from La Scala Integrated Media shares some insights about smart-lighting systems. Get ready for the upcoming Buildex Vancouver with our preview program inside this issue. The annual tradeshow will feature international designer Vicente Wolf among many others. Hope to see you all there.

Cheryl Mah Managing Editor

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DESIGN QUARTERLY | Winter 2011

::::::: designer profile :::::::

personal touch By Cheryl Mah

DESIGN QUARTERLY | Winter 2011

Ema Peter

ounded just seven years ago, BYU Design has successfully established itself as a leading interior design firm in Vancouver. “We are best known for our multi-residential work which includes various components — suites, common spaces as well as marketing centres and display suites,” explains BYU principal and co-founder Ada Bonini. The 36-year-old interior designer was drawn to arts and graphic design early on and once she chose interior design as a career path, she knew it was her calling. The every day diversity of the business is what she enjoys most. “I love the variety. I can be on the phone all day or designing furniture, picking cutlery or looking at how to figure out a detail in a space,” says Bonini. Since she started Bob’s Your Uncle Design — now known as BYU Design — with business partner Cheryl Broadhead, the firm has grown to become one of the city’s top interior design firms. Bonini says they chose the name Bob’s Your Uncle for its uniqueness and to reflect their business approach: energetic, fun, fresh. The British catchphrase means ‘the job is done’ or ‘it’s a sure thing’. “That’s how we see it. We’ll get the job done and it’ll be done right,” explains Bonini. Indeed, the eight person boutique firm (including its two principals) has been doing everything right. With a solid client base, their portfolio ranges in scale from townhouses and low-rise construction to multi-tower high-rise buildings. The firm provides all phases of design services to clients from programming to schematic design; contract documentation, administration and FF&E packages. Current projects include Capital in downtown Vancouver, Edgewater in South Surrey, a multi-tower project in New Westminster for Blue Sky Properties, a new purposebuilt rental building on Granville Street and the five tower Infinity development project in Surrey. One of the biggest design considerations for multi-residential projects, says Bonini, is that there is not one end user.

“You have 258 end users which all have their own opinions and varied tastes so it’s about appealing to the largest amount of people,” she says. “The builder’s beige gets criticized but in reality it’s really what’s required. You want to create a backdrop that people can add to or change easily.” BYU also recently completed a display suite for Millennium Water’s Avenues of the World project. A total of nine suites were completed, each one featuring the work of a top Vancouver interior designer. The theme of the BYU suite was green and sustainability which was expressed through the materials used, notably aluminum and FSC-certified wood. Avenues of the World project, says Bonini, is a good example of their design approach where they try to create timeless spaces that are “comforting, pleasing and elegant.” Although application of LEED to multiresidential can be challenging, Bonini says sustainability is an important issue. “If you don’t keep up with the group, you’re going to be left behind so even if your clients

Claremont Condominium, tower 2 of Westwood Village, in Coquitlam.

don’t ask for [sustainable design], end users are going to expect it,” says Bonini, who became a LEED accredited professional in 2009. “Sustainability is important, especially since a lot of jurisdictions — when you’re building new projects — are demanding a LEED equivalent to be met.” The firm fosters a collaborative environment with staff working in teams. Both principals are hands on with every project. It’s that personal touch and involvement that Bonini feels underlies their ongoing success. “Most of our clients are repeat clients,” she says. For Bonini, an interior design career has been rewarding and enjoyable but she stresses it requires hard work. “It’s not as easy as it looks,” she says. “You have to consider life safety, building codes and there is a lot of research. And you have to be prepared to put in the work at school.” Bonini obtained her interior design education at Kwantlen Polytechnic University in

Richmond where she received her Diploma in Interior Design with honours, and subsequently a Bachelor of Applied Design. “When I was growing up, I always thought I wanted to be an architect but it was unclear what an architect did when I was in high school,” says Bonini, who was born in Edmonton. She recalls how meeting a cousin who was an architect help set her on the right path. “I was already in college doing a bit of everything and when I looked into interior design, I found that it was for me and went for it and I’m so happy I did.” After graduation in 1998, Bonini gained experience working at Portico Design Group. Her first project was a sales office trailer in North Vancouver. “That was my first lesson in scale and proportion because it’s really hard to understand spatial connection until you build something and stand in the space,” she says with a laugh. Bonini joined Mitchell Freedland in 2001 and calls him her biggest inspiration. “My biggest inspiration today is still Mitchell Freedland. He’s an amazing designer, man and mentor. I learned a lot from him,” says Bonini. “We’re still very good friends.” Then in 2003, Broadhead (who she met at Kwantlen) brought up the idea of starting a company. “I always thought I would own my own business one day but I never thought of it at that time but the opportunity was there with Cheryl and it was the best time to start a business because of the boom that was happening here,” she says. “We had contracts right away.” A booming condo market helped BYU Design to quickly build a portfolio. One of their first projects was Tandem, a two tower highrise project in Burnaby. More projects would follow keeping the new firm very busy. It was the kind of start any young designer could only dream of, but it was “extremely hectic, long days and working weekends,” recalls Bonini. Being a young and unproven firm meant some developers weren’t willing to take the risk with them but Bonini says they overcame that. Clients they met through previous projects sought them out and because of their specialty in multi-residential, they made instant connections with leading real estate marketing teams. “Bob Rennie and Cam McNeill were such strong supporters of us in the early days. We couldn’t have done it without their support,” says Bonini. Today, the firm remains very active with 28 projects primarily located in the Lower Mainland. Before the global economic slowdown in 2008, about 40 per cent of their work was in Seattle. “It was a bit of a hit for us but luckily we still had a lot of local presence so we just 8

DESIGN QUARTERLY | Winter 2011

J a sa l y n T h o r n e

::::::: designer profile :::::::

picked up more local work as a result,” says Bonini. “We did have eight projects go on hold which since then, seven of them have come back. We were fortunate. We had to do some lay-offs but it could’ve been worse.” The firm also survived by doing some private residential work for their development clients. “We did a couple of private residences recently and that’s a field I never thought I would be in but designing those have been some of my favourites because I was able to do things a little bit outside of the box,” says Bonini. Private residential work also challenged her to move outside of her comfort zone. “If somebody has a style that I personally could never do myself, I like the challenge of being able to still make it a success and have the client happy with the end result,” she explains. Bonini’s time is currently divided up between her company and volunteer work. She sits on the IDC (Interior Designers of Canada) board as the BC director. She is also a volunteer for NCIDQ, where she assists in writing the exam as part of the multiple choice committee. “I’m one of those people who like to take action and I think the only way to do that is to become involved,” says Bonini. The IDC underwent a major restructuring in 2010. The national association now represents several interest groups including all existing provincial associations, individual interior designers, and industry partners. The purpose of the change was to create a stronger unified voice for the profession. “It’s a great change,” says Bonini. “For the provinces, it’s a shift in thinking because we’re so used to doing so much. But now

Avenues of the World at Millennium Water.

there’s a larger team to support us in terms of communication and administration.” Actively involved in the industry, Bonini says one of the biggest issues facing individual firms and the design profession as a whole is fee cutting. “There are some people who think the way to get more work is to under cut other designers but what they’re really doing is hurting the profession because they’re undervaluing what we do,” notes Bonini. “Ethics has also become a big issue. As times are lean, people start bending a little bit in what they do. That’s happening more in the U.S. than Canada.” With work demands at a more manageable pace, Bonini’s focus is to have more balance in her life. That means enjoying a glass of wine and a great meal or going mountain biking. “One thing we’re passionate about is downhill mountain biking. The reason I love it is when you’re doing it, you can’t think of anything else — all you can focus on is getting down the hill,” she says. Bonini and her husband Steve also enjoy travelling, which is a source of inspiration. “Berlin was one of the most inspiring cities I’ve been to. I like to look at different countries and cultures and how they work design in so that’s really inspirational,” she says. And how does Vancouver measure up on the world stage? “There are some super strong designers here who design internationally. The calibre of the designer here is extremely high and I think that’s where Vancouver’s reputation lies,” says Bonini. DQ

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::::::: project profile :::::::

distinctive design By Cheryl Mah

ith its two cantilevered towers and creased glass walls, the latest luxury condo addition to Coal Harbour is bringing a new distinctive design to Vancouver’s skyline. IBI/HB Architects, a firm with an international reputation for innovative design in residential high-rise development, has pushed the envelope (almost literally) with West Pender Place. “Reliance Properties are pretty discerning, high quality develop10

DESIGN QUARTERLY | Winter 2011

ers so there was a determination from the start that we wanted to do something unique,” says Jim Hancock, IBI/HB project architect and associate director. Developed by Reliance Properties, the $225 million project will total 270,000 square feet including 15,000 square feet of retail at grade. The project is comprised of two towers, one 36 storeys and the other 10 storeys, connected in the middle by a five storey podium building. The concrete structures are a mix of window wall and curtain wall.

M ar t i n Te s s l e r

::::::: project profile :::::::

ITC Construction Group started work in June 2008 and completion is scheduled for April 2011. When determining the form and expression of the buildings, Hancock focused on the building skin to evoke a distinct identity. “The building form was really about giving it a distinctive identity. We wanted to put this kind of folded skin expression in there so the towers would actually lean out toward the streets,” describes Hancock. The skin on the east and west sides of the towers have a sharp crease which runs diagonally from the bottom to the top, creating a prism like geometry. “One side of the crease is vertical glass and the other side of the crease is glass tilting out,” says Hancock. “The skin is the most challenging feature and most exciting. It’s an entirely new look for Coal Harbour.” Situated at Pender and Broughton Streets, the block long site is unconventionally shaped and relatively shallow. “The site itself is quite constrained in many ways so we had quite a few challenges to get some fundamental aspects of it working, like parking for example,” says Hancock. The close proximity to the building behind also necessitated a design that was “quite slender with small floor plates.” “We tried a number of different options with the city and ended up with a taller tower at the west end and a shorter tower on the east,” recalls Hancock. 12

DESIGN QUARTERLY | Winter 2011

Following LEED silver guidelines to maximize efficiency, the project features a variety of sustainable strategies including a geothermal heating and cooling system, energy efficient lighting and a roof top garden. A public art component includes a series of programmable LED light strips on each of the exposed elevator cores on Pender Street. They are designed by a Dutch artist named Tamar Frank. Each of the three buildings has its own lobby and elevators which will emphasize the feeling of exclusivity intended for the residences. Amenities include a meeting space, lounge, pool and full size gym. The project offers a diversity of unit types with its 144 residential suites, including dramatic two storey lofts. The interiors designed by Alda Pereira Design evoke a fluid and luxurious feeling balanced with West Coast sensibility. “Sited right by Stanley Park and the seawall, the objective was to create an environment that was luxurious but in keeping with the West Coast setting. The natural elements of the site would be incorporated into the interiors as much as possible,” says designer Alda Pereira. “The spaces are generous, very open, very large with high ceilings.” Pereira has put her unique design touch on many high-end private residences and condo buildings in Vancouver. West Pender Place is her first project in Coal Harbour and one of her favourite multi-family projects. “This building will add another dimension to Coal Harbour,” she says. “It presents itself as a true reflection of how to live in a natural setting with an air of individuality among so many.”

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::::::: project profile :::::::

Close attention was paid to sightlines and optimizing the spectacular views by the interior design firm. Open plan living, dining and kitchen areas form a fluid living space. “We were very involved with the space planning and what we basically did was to create a complete separation of private and public spaces,” says Pereira. “It allowed the space to be opened up and open to the view more.” The interiors are a classic modernist vernacular of marble, wood, glass and metal. Eight foot sliding closet doors feature brushed metal and back painted glass panels. Low maintenance brushed white oak hardwood floors run seamlessly throughout the suites, which adds to the sense of “space and drama,” says Pereira. The flooring even extends into the bathroom areas where marble tiles have been strategically placed where the wet spots are — in front of the tub and shower. 14

DESIGN QUARTERLY | Winter 2011

“Warmth is what makes people feel at home so we chose finishing materials that appeal to the senses to complement and balance the sleekness of the building,” says Pereira. “All the finishes are high quality and were selected for low maintenance.” Suites range in size from 600 to 2,300 square feet with penthouses up to 3,700 square feet. “At the start, the challenge was structural — it kept moving around a bit and because it’s an angular twisty building, it was challenging window covering wise for example,” notes Pereira. The suites are offered with three colour palettes in a range of dark, medium and light. “It’s a very clean environment where somebody can put in their own imprint without us imposing something on the buyer,” says Pereira. “The only strong colours that we incorporated into the

::::::: project profile :::::::

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schematics were in the powder rooms where buyers have a choice of strong blue or strong red.” The kitchens feature custom Italian Dada kitchens designed by Pereira. Upper cabinets are done in a high gloss lacquer and the lower cabinets are done with rift cut veneers with wood and aluminium edge detailing. West Pender Place is the first condo development in the city to include Gaggenau kitchen appliances, says Pereira. As one of the last readily available development sites in Coal Harbour, West Pender Place has succeeded with its carefully sculptured form to distinguish itself from its waterfront neighbours. “It will bring a retail component to the area and I think just a sense of sophisticated elegance that will sit well with all of its neighbours,” says Hancock, who has bought a suite in the building himself. DQ

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Where will your inspiration take you?

Winter 2011 | DESIGN QUARTERLY

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::::::: colour :::::::

bold and bright colours are back

Bodacious reds, watery teals and rusted hues enliven deep greys and warm browns

UPcycle

INstinct

olour is back in a big way, according to PPG Pittsburgh Paints’ colour forecast for home décor in 2011-2012. The company reports that homeowners will gravitate toward deep, bold and bright colours to invigorate the greys and beiges of past years. “We are rediscovering the joy and beauty and optimism that we need to overcome adversity, and our colour choices for home will reflect that,” says Dee Schlotter, brand manager, The Voice of Colour, PPG Pittsburgh Paints. In addition, two societal trends are at play, says Schlotter. First, design has been democratized. According to Schlotter, the fact that consumers gather and assimilate information in real-time means that instead of being told by designers what they should like, they discover the look they like and ask designers to help them achieve it. The second trend is the quest for authenticity. It’s a reaction to the pervasive and instantaneous knock-offs that come with our realtime world, but it also flows from an embedded environmental sensitivity, which drives people to simplify, to get back to basics, and to live more sustainably. 18

DESIGN QUARTERLY | Winter 2011

Glamour

New Bohemia

“It’s really important for designers to stay on top of colour trends,” says Schlotter, “because their clients will demand it. Consumers are much more design-savvy than ever. They notice the aesthetics of their environment — from their favourite coffee shop to the airport they pass through to the tissue box they buy.” Schlotter sees an ongoing design evolution in people’s homes, pushing towards what’s truly personal and incorporating clever new home technologies. “We ‘decurate’, meaning that rather than starting from scratch, we keep what works and edit out what doesn’t to create new looks,” says Schlotter. “Our colour choices are more and more about what makes us feel happy — a hit of ruby red behind a piece of art, teal in the kitchen or citrus on a ceiling.” Schlotter explains that trends are never about one colour in isolation, but about combinations of colours striking new harmonies. Each of PPG’s trends is presented in a signature five-colour card that captures the colour trends in furniture and accessories, as well as paint colour. “What woods are being used with those wall colours? What are the new accents being thrown into the mix?” she asks. “Our trend Harmony

::::::: colour ::::::: cards answer those questions as well, to help people achieve the look.” The four new “Wow Colour Now” palettes in PPG Pittsburgh Paints’ The Voice of Colour® program for 2011-2012 are:

INstinct The soul of this trend is warm and authentic. Fusing the raw and primitive with a technical aesthetic, INstinct is a mature style that appeals to a citizen of the world — a mix of ethnic exoticism and modern sophistication. The palette conjures the natural beauty of wood grains set against mineral finishes, the subtle variations of deep brown leather and the varied and deep greys of ancient stone. It is organic and unadorned; the most muted and grounded of the trend palettes.

glamour With a focus on the “amour,” Glamour is mysterious, sensual, rich and complex. A sense of déjà vu imbues the atmosphere. Glistening metallics and intricate motifs connect this trend with the past. Glamour’s take on pattern is bold and sharp, with plays on negative space that surprise and delight. It’s audacious and challenging, the look slightly theatrical: Sleeping Beauty with a bite, Paris classic with an edge. Glamour’s black is moody and deep, the red, strong and sexy. Rich neutrals are inspired by materials with a past — limestone, bronze, black marble.

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new bohemia With a sense of whimsy and an appreciation of craft, this bucolic trend updates vintage for a new generation. Rooms become personal scrapbooks that integrate quirky secondhand objects with memory pieces. It’s “gypset,” fusing the ease and carefree lifestyle of a gypsy with the sophistication of the jet set. Floral, fairytale and fantastic inspirations mix it up with modern for a look that is untamed and original, still charming, but more adventurous. Pink nurtures the creative spirit and aqua refreshes. Both are anchored in the palette by craft-paper beige and the warm dark wood tones that play predominantly in hard goods.

UPcycle UPcycle appeals to the optimist who values craftsmanship and rejects waste, who values things with a history. It embodies simple living, keeping only what is functional and personal. The palette is warm and welcoming, settling on wood tones and the quiet hues of undyed yarns, untreated metals and tone-on-tone ceramics. Bright blue colour blocks inject the dose of “up” into this trend, lighting up pale wood tones. DQ

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::::::: fireplaces :::::::

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By robert koby Whistler Residence. Collaboration between builder — John McSkimming Construction Ltd , Zago Design and VGF.

challenges

a shift in fireplace design A popular design for gas fireplaces in the 1980s was to simply replicate the traditional look of a wood-burning fireplace. Now, the industry has added heat production as a fundamental ingredient in fireplace design. However, many designers have rejected the traditional idea of a gas “fireplace” on the grounds that what is being represented is not a real wood fire, but a gas fire coming through artificial logs in a metal box. That being said, designers say the gas fireplace’s appeal is not necessarily in the logs and the box they are placed in, but rather the heat and the flame itself. Designers can now manipulate gas fires into unique shapes and forms not possible with wood fireplaces. Talented designers can further manipulate the visual texture with different materials arranged in aesthetically appealing patterns. In this sense, gas fire has become another material to work with. Fire has multiple dimensions of depth, movement and heat, bringing pleasure to our senses. As suppliers of gas fireplaces to the building industry, we were constantly asked to simplify the look of fireplaces, particularly external elements to maximize the fire’s aesthetic appeal. We were also asked on numerous occasions to customize the installation as a central focus to suit the surrounding area. The demand is for individualizing a process that had previously been a mass-produced and aesthetically mediocre product. 22

DESIGN QUARTERLY | Winter 2011

Robert Koby is owner of Vancouver Gas Fireplaces, North America’s leading innovator of custom fireplace design and implementation. VGF has the most comprehensive fireplace website for architects, builders, designers and renovators: www.vangasfireplaces.com

at n v i s ua l s .c om X 2

he evolution of gas fireplaces over the last 10 years has been dramatic. Customized options have grown beyond having a traditional fireplace and there is now a wide range of designs available ranging from the traditional wood-fire look to an aesthetically pleasing flame. For many, it is not just a fireplace anymore. It is now a fire feature.

There are, however, a number of financial, technical and regulatory challenges in producing custom fire features. Custom installations can come with a much larger budget. With gas fire features, a design budget can be increased by the addition of special finishes. The custom fabricated burners, bodies and vent systems can be four to five times the cost of a similarly sized off-the-shelf unit. Once the budget is determined, the client and designer work together and determine whether the technical aspects of the design are realistic and feasible, and then fine-tune the design. Then, the various components must be fabricated and tested. During this stage, unique revisions can be required to suit the customized design. From a regulatory standpoint, there are numerous challenges. All projects start with the gas code. Gas code regulations regarding clearances, combustion and venting must be strictly adhered to. As the burners, bodies and vent hoods are usually custom fabrications, they have no universally approved listings. Valves, pilot assemblies, control units and venting components do have approved listings, but the overall operating system is not pre-approved as a whole. In North America, there is no agreed on industry standard on custom installation approval. In Canada, jurisdictions are divided provincially, while in the United States it is generally state-wide. In most instances, there exists a process where shop drawings, schematics, written specifications and component lists are submitted to local authorities for review and pre-approval in principle pending a final field inspection after installation. The common practice is to have the installing contractor handle the approval process as they are familiar with local procedures. At the end of the day, it is wise to be very conservative with customized plans and to err on the side of caution. That being said, custom fire features can represent a complex and rewarding collaboration between the supplier, designer and client. In the end, a custom fireplace can be one of the most exciting new additions a client can bring into the home. DQ

West Vancouver Residence. Collaboration with home owner and VGF.

Advertise in Design Quarterly and let us connect your products and services to the design industry Endorsed by the leading design and architectural associations, Design Quarterly is the publication of choice by advertisers who want to connect with the decision makers in the multi-billion dollar B.C. and Alberta design marketplace. To advertise your products, services and expertise or for more information on customizing an advertising program, please contact: Dan Gnocato 604.739.2115 ext. 223 dang@mediaedge.ca

www.designquarterly.ca

::::::: fireplaces :::::::

contemporary gas fires By Roger Gripton

ver the years fireplaces have evolved from a necessary means of heating a home to a luxury item where family and friends gather to warm both their feet and their hearts. Twenty years ago, gas fireplaces were just in their infancy. Convenient? Yes, but they were poor heating devices with unrealistic blue flames — not at all like the roaring yellow dancing flames of a ‘real’ wood burning fireplace. The downside, of course, with wood burning fireplaces was ‘lack of control’. Starting the fireplace was always a test of endurance — smoking to get started: ‘oh — did I remember to open the flue damper?” Once the fireplace was going, it often got too hot and windows had to be opened in order to enjoy the ambience and avoid roasting oneself. We’ve come a long way in 20 years! Today, gas burning fireplaces can be turned on and off at the flick of a switch; they can be thermostatically controlled — even by a hand held remote from the comfort of your easy chair. Sealed glass fronts and combustion air drawn directly into the fireplace through a secondary vent encircling the actual flue gas vent (direct vent technology) has the capability of turning a gas fireplace into a work horse of heater. As a room heater, a gas fireplace affords the homeowner with the opportunity to turn down the central heating thermostat and maintain a very comfortable temperature in the occupied room resulting in an overall reduction in heating costs. You might say “but a gas fireplace isn’t a ‘real’ flame — it’s still artificial”. This is where the fireplace industry has surpassed itself with reproducing some of the most realistic yellow dancing flame patterns and rustic, textured ceramic logs sets that look so realistic, consumers often ask — how long do the logs burn for? With charred looking finishes, white hot ash like features and glowing charcoal embers, today’s gas fireplaces are not only realistic representations of our forefathers fireplaces, but an energy efficient home heating, decorative, entertaining and relaxing addition to any home. From tradi24

DESIGN QUARTERLY | Winter 2011

tional to ‘old world’, gas fireplaces are available in a wide range of styles and sizes, including a massive fireplace by Napoleon complete with sculpted wrought iron front and even an optional cooking pot suspended on an arched crane within the actual fireplace, a perfect compliment for an old country home, log cabin or southern mansion. Looking for something unique in a fireplace design? Not interested in the same old traditional fireplace? Once again technology advances, styles change, colours intermingle and voilà — clean face (no visible heat circulating spaces and airways) and linear (wide, short) fireplaces are born. The hottest demand in fireplace styles over the last five years has been linear. The overall trend for fireplaces is long and sleek linear designs in black and stainless finishes. Cast iron and copper are popular in fireplaces featuring traditional log sets. Coupled with this new clean style are new and intriguing substitutions for traditional logs: simulated river rocks, pebbles, crushed glass, twisted and sculpted metal artwork and yes, even jewels. Up to 160 Swarovski Crystal elements sparkle like diamonds in our limited edition linear fireplace, all positioned in an elegant necklace like burner assembly. These signed and numbered fireplaces offer the ultimate in decorative conversation pieces for the most discriminating homeowner. Decorative fronts are also available in an array of colours, including brushed stainless steel, which can change a traditional fireplace into a dramatic fashion statement. The fireplace industry has certainly not stood still over the last two decades. Fashions and styles change yearly — why shouldn’t a fireplace be an exciting as well as hearth warming experience? DQ Roger Gripton is vice president of sales for Napoleon Fireplaces, North America’s largest privately owned manufacturer of quality gas fireplaces, wood, pellet and electric fireplaces, inserts and stoves, gourmet grills, outdoor living products and indoor waterfalls. www. napoleonfireplaces.com

::::::: fireplaces :::::::

a warming trend Fire pits have become a “must have.”

By Brad Carpenter

raditionally, the favourite rooms in the home have been the kitchen and family room. Within the last number of years the backyard has taken on a new role and elevated its status to the outdoor living room. It has taken over as the new favourite gathering space for cooking, entertaining and relaxation with the fire pit often being at the very centre of the extended outdoor living area. Since man’s earliest days, our attraction to fire has been universal. The ambience created by a flickering flame and the warmth it expels is simply an undeniable delight. The fire pit is often referred to as the “conversation pit” for its special effect of drawing people together. Creating a truly functional and relaxing room for outdoor living requires careful planning. When selecting a fire pit you’ll need to consider architectural style, colour, traffic flow, space requirements and comfort. In addition, an outdoor room has its own special challenges, such as providing for privacy and creating shelter from the sun and wind. The design criteria for a fire pit starts with determining not just its location and style but also what sort of fuel source you wish to utilize. There are four options to consider, depending on the regulations of your area: traditional wood, natural gas, propane or the newest entrant on the market — ethanol. Be mindful that there are many municipalities in North America that no longer allow wood burners. With natural gas you will need to determine where to run the gas line — the number of BTU’s you

have available and whether you are placing it on a deck, pavers or hardscape. With propane burners you will have to consider the tank and how to hide it: potentially burying it in a planter box, a bench or running it underneath a deck. If considering the newest fuel — ethanol — one must provide sufficient cover for wind and/or rain. The popularity of fire pits in the garden is one of fastest growing trends in outdoor design to develop in the last number of years. Proper design and construction will ensure a safe and enjoyable feature that will last many years. The portability of gas fire pits allows homeowners to take their fire feature with them in the event of a move or in the redesign of their outdoor space. Fire pits have become a “must have” item even in climates which traditionally wouldn’t have bothered with one. The proliferation of certified natural gas and propane burners has fueled an upsurge of interest in fire pits. In the past fire pits were often uninspiring basic brick fixtures. This proliferation of gas has caused an influx of elegant and more sophisticated fire pits combining not only form but function. Many of the fire pits function as a table and some new arrivals combine fire and water. Wide scale production of fire and water features is not readily available yet but it is only a matter of time before they will be commonplace. DQ Brad Carpenter is CEO of Solus Decor. Solus designs and makes the world’s finest fireplace surrounds and mantels, exterior contemporary firepits and tiles. www.solusdecor.com. Winter 2011 | DESIGN QUARTERLY

::::::: tiles & stone :::::::

fresh and fashionable

hat’s fresh and fashionable this season in the world of tile? Warm, earthy colours and visually appealing surfaces are making a comeback in a big way. Metals, wood and dimensional textured tiles create a sensational backdrop or fireplace surround. Classic white and cream stones with subtle veining such as Cararra, Calacatta and Statuary marbles are also being selected frequently, especially for the traditional bath, while the heavily veined or coloured stones with dramatic facial detail are losing popularity. We spoke with DeeDee Gundberg, product development portfolio manager, at Portland, Ore. based Ann Sacks Tile and Stone Company, on what she forecasts based upon her worldwide travels and work in the field as a tile designer. “While modern and clean are still popular, there is a large shift back towards traditional and rustic interiors,” explains Gundberg. “Although neutrals remain the biggest sellers in terms of palette, metals, grays, and deep, rich and interactive glazes are popular. Large format designs are also being specified by consumers, designers and hospitality trade professionals. Stone and porcelain flooring are being specified in 24x24, 24x36 or larger. Wall tile has shifted from 3x6 to 6x18. The result is an

updated, clean look perfect for larger spaces. Rectangles are considered the new squares.” Innovative processes in porcelain flooring production such as inkjet technology can mimic a natural limestone or marble effect for a stone look that unlike real stone requires no maintenance. “I have seen porcelain made to look like stone in the past and it was never anything that we considered because it never looked good. However, with ink-jet technology, I have seen absolutely beautiful options that look like the real thing,” says Gundberg. This same technology allows porcelain to imitate the random whorls and swirls of wood and other intricate, organic inspired irregular patterning that usually requires a great deal of upkeep without the fuss. This has changed the face of porcelain flooring and gives designers a viable alternative to stone floors. Across the board, porcelain flooring, stone floors, ceramic tile, glass tile and mosaics are being selected for large scale, show-stopping design statements. Three-dimensional stone and ceramic surfaces and textural, engaging designs add depth and complexity. “People are craving comfort and security and innately respond to the warmth or coolness tile and stone naturally resonates within a room and are looking to surround themselves with surfaces that evoke these sensibilities,” concludes Gundberg. DQ

Warm, earthy colours and visually appealing surfaces are making a comeback…

DESIGN QUARTERLY | Winter 2011

::::::: tiles & stone :::::::

hot tile trends By Karen Gustafson

Crossville, Inc.’s award-winning UltiMetal Porcelain Stone® tile is unique in that it has a textured, metalized glaze that is both scratch and acid resistant – qualities that aren’t generally associated with metal tile.

ravel — whether by armchair or the real thing — has made the North American architect, designer and consumer more aware of international design trends. As we move into the second decade of the 21st century, we are seeing a growing trend for the use of porcelain and ceramic tile throughout residential spaces, for several reasons: tile adds value to a property while creating a look of permanence; it’s as healthy to live with as it is healthy for the environment; and it’s available in an incredible array of styles, shapes and sizes for both interior and exterior applications. Here are the hot tile trends to watch: The European minimalist look, which has been growing in popularity on the two U.S. coasts for the last several years (think of the bare concrete used in urban lofts and commercial spaces), is now catching on in urban areas throughout North America. In porcelain tile, this is interpreted as tile in a monochromatic color with a matte or suede-like finish and minimal visual movement. Minimalist-look tile would also have rectified edges, which are straight and squared-off, allowing the tile to be laid close together for a more seamless look. The “refined country” look Advances in technology have enabled manufacturers to create stone-look porcelain tile with such random colour and pattern that no two tiles are identical. The newest stone looks go a step further in that they are more refined and less rustic, with smoother (easier to clean) surfaces. They have visual texture rather than surface texture and rectified edges, rather than irregular,

cushioned edges. The refined country look is available in porcelain that replicates marble, travertine, slate and limestone, among other stones. Green design With all the green-washing in the marketplace, it’s important to look for products with recycled content that have been certified by a third party. Crossville, Inc., a U.S.-based, tile manufacturer has taken “green” a step farther with its revolutionary Tile Take-Back Program, in which the company will literally take back installed tile from a project where the tile will be replaced with Crossville tile. That used tile is then “crushed” and repurposed as recycled content in new Crossville tile. Crossville is also first to introduce a Sustainable Samples box for architects and designers, comprising paper “tile” samples created using a high-resolution scanner to capture a near-exact image of each of 230+ stone samples — all in a compact 10”x 4” kit. The back of each tile has a QR code, which can be scanned with any smart phone to retrieve product information and order actual samples. Inkjet technology This technology has been on the market for several years now and has improved greatly with better inks and print/ head resolutions available. If done well, it can enhance the aesthetics of the tile by creating less repetition of the graphics. So far, the most successful applications have mixed inkjet technology with more traditional tile technologies; by itself, inkjet can look somewhat photographic. Plank and large-format shapes Look for plank shapes in all sizes (Crossville makes them up to 36” long) and large format tile, 24”x24” and, at times, even larger. Accents What’s new is a mix or patchwork of different materials — stone, glass and metal, for instance, in a single trim piece — think of it as jewelry to dress up the field tile. Retro looks From the early 20th century to Art Deco to the ‘50s and ‘60s — all are sweeping the continent. Thin tile There has been a mixed response up to now, as the industry waits for real world feedback from users and installers. Currently, thin tiles are being used in wall applications; the challenge is to develop a thin tile with the breaking strength necessary for floor installations and to establish installation and setting materials guidelines. DQ Karen Gustafson is an award-winning design journalist. She is also a consultant to manufacturers in the furnishings industry, including Crossville, Inc., a TN-based manufacturer of porcelain, glass and metal tile. www.crossvilleinc.com

Wood Impressions by Crossville, Inc. combines the traditional appeal of wood with the durability and easy care of Porcelain Stone® tile; available in six wood-inspired hues and a variety of shapes and sizes, including a 36”x6” plank shape (shown). Winter 2011 | DESIGN QUARTERLY

::::::: tiles & stone :::::::

Natural Stone A world selection of

At your fingertips

tile style

Organic, romantic and even three-dimensional — new and exciting tiles offer infinite possibilities to complement any design aesthetic. Ziva Artistic Tile Inspired by nature, Ziva is a sculptural, three-dimensional stone tile that is designed with an undulating pattern to create its unique appearance. Each tile is hand carved and available in two patterns: lotus and leaves.

Ziva

Ganesha New Ravenna Mosaics Ganesha, in honed Calacatta marble, is suitable for both floors and walls in residential and commercial applications. Ganesha is customizable with 73 standard stones and 50 jewel glass colourways.

Ganesha

Viscaya Platino Collection Nemo Tile Co. Viscaya Platino is the future of glass. In the manufacturing process, metal is adhered to the glass using electroplating technology making it appear as platinum, stainless steel, or mirrored finish. This process provides the sleekness of metal with the physical properties of glass. With over 600 colors and styles of granite: • Marble • Travertine • Limestone • Slate • Semi Precious Stone • Onyx • Soap Stone • Engineered Quartz Stone Hari Stones turns your vision into reality.

Bajkal Series Ames Tiles Bajkal has an elegant chromatic range from beige to black. It is a new range of Italian honed, rectified and full-bodied porcelain floor and wall tile made by Imola Ceramica. The Bajkal range is designed to look like natural limestone.

13042 84 Avenue Surrey, BC V3W 1L2

PH: 604.599.4272 (HARI) TF: 1.877.599.4274 (HARI) FAX: 604.502.8478

W AREHOUSE LO C A TIONS in KEL O W N A a nd EDMON T ON

www.haristoneslimited.com 28

DESIGN QUARTERLY | Winter 2011

Bajkal Series

Drill Series Ames Tiles These high gloss glaze versatile ceramic tiles by La Faenza come in two finishes for a total of 18 color combinations. Colours range from crisp and cool to soft and warm.

SURREY

Viscaya Platino

Drill Series

Waterfall Collection Walker Zanger Walker Zanger’s Waterfull Collection combines honed slate and iridescent marbleized glass to impart an organic feeling of luxury. The only slate-and-glass combination on the market today. These mosaic tiles are available in a multi-tude of elegant formats and colours. DQ

Walker Zanger

BUILDEX is about designing, building and managing real estate

FEBrUAry 23 & 24, 2011 VancouVer conVention centre West

www.buildexvancouver.com MEDIA sPonsors

PHoto creDit: andre Harrmann, winner of the 2nd annual BuiLDeX Vancouver northern exposure Photo contest

Exciting News from Western Canada’s Largest Annual Industry Event BUILDEX Vancouver is excited to be returning to our new home at the Vancouver Convention Centre West on February 23 & 24, 2011. BUILDEX 2011 will host a tremendous speaker line-up of industry leaders from across Construction & Renovation, Architecture & Interior Design, and Property Management. Some of the highlights include: the Interior Design Keynote Panel, the International Architectural Keynote Panel headlined by the renowned Antoine Predock, New York’s award winning designer Vicente Wolf, a Conversation on Construction presented by the VRCA, Surrey Mayor Dianne Watts, and a Real Estate Outlook for the Vancouver Market. We encourage you to explore over 50 seminars available — we are confident there is something for everyone. Visit www.buildexvancouver.com for full seminar details and to register. New for 2011, the IIDA and IDC will be hosting their First Annual Vancouver Leaders Breakfast honouring local designer Robert Ledingham and welcoming guest speaker Trevor Linden. Other special events taking place during BUILDEX include the annual CEO Breakfast sponsored by the ICBA as well as a BOMA BC lunch commemorating their centennial year. As always BUILDEX Vancouver presents the largest tradeshow floor of its kind in Western Canada with over 600 exhibits to explore. Tradeshow floor access is FREE is you pre-register on-line. Finally, we would like to extend a thank you to our exhibitors, sponsors, industry partners, speakers and everyone else that helps make this event possible. See you February 23 & 24, 2011!

Visit the tradeshow floor where you will find over 600 exhibits.

Multiple Industries: One Show BUILDEX Vancouver encompasses multiple industries including: 3 IntErIor DEsIgn / ArchItEctUrE

3 ProPErty MAnAgEMEnt

3 constrUctIon

3 rEAL EstAtE DEVELoPMEnt

3 rEnoVAtIon

3 FAcILItIEs / oPErAtIons MAnAgEMEnt

constrUct DIAMonD sPonsor

PM PLAtInUM sPonsor

constrUct PLAtInUM sPonsor

PM goLD sPonsor

constrUct goLD sPonsor

PrIncIPAL sPonsor

SPECIAL FEATURE | 2011 BUILDEX Vancouver Show Preview

Seminar Highlights W01 – Interior Design Keynote: The State of the Interior Design Profession (edited by caren Martin and Denise Guerin,

MEDIA SPONSOR

Published by Fairchild Books) Wednesday, February 23 • 8:00am – 10:00am The State of the Interior Design Profession, a new book that is a “must-read” hit the market early 2010. Hear about the impetus for the book and why certain issues and authors were chosen to be highlighted. The editors and four Canadian and U.S. authors who contributed to the book will be with us to continue the dialogue with you on issues critical to the interior design profession, such as factors influencing practice, globalization, evidence-based design, and the body of knowledge. These issues among a total of 12 were addressed by over 80 authors in The State of the Interior Design Profession. Join the editors, Caren Martin and Denise Guerin, and a panel of authors who will address these key issues and invite you to contribute your viewpoints during this keynote session. The editors will ask new questions of the panelists to get the dialogue started and invite you to join in.

Denise a. Guerin

caren s. Martin

Dr. Mary anne Beecher charrisse Johnston

Joseph Pettipas

ernest (ernie) rhoads

Moderators: Denise A. Guerin PhD, FIDEC, FASID, IIDA, Professor of Interior Design, University of Minnesota Caren S. Martin PhD, CID-MN, FASID, IDEC, IES, IIDA, Associate Professor of Interior Design, University of Minnesota Panelists: Dr. Mary Anne Beecher, Head, Interior Design Department, University of Manitoba Charrisse Johnston ASID, LEED AP, Assoc. AIA, Associate, Gensler Joseph Pettipas IIDA, IDC, ASID, RDI, AAA-LID, LEED AP, Senior Vice President, HOK Ernest (Ernie) Rhoads ASID, LEED-AP ID+C, MBA/MS, Interior Designer-Project Manager, CB Richard Ellis

t12 – International Architectural Keynote: going Local? the Long-term global Implications of Architectural regionalism Thursday, February 24 • 10:30am – 12:30pm Architecture continues to evolve as an increasingly global profession, where it is increasingly attractive and feasible for even a small practice to emerge as a global architectural player. With the evolution of digital media and instant communication, architectural practices are able to complete anywhere in the world with a level of infrastructural investment that would have been unthinkable a few years ago.

Gregory Henriquez

Helen Besharat

James cheng

steve McFarlane

antoine Predock

Moderator: Gregory Henriquez, Managing Partner, Henriquez Architects Panel: Helen Besharat, Principal, Besharat Friars Architects James Cheng, Principal, James KM Cheng Architects Inc. Steve McFarlane, Principal, McFarlane Green Biggar Antoine Predock, Principal, Antoine Predock Architect PC

First Annual IDC/IIDA Vancouver Leaders Breakfast

W13 – Vicente Wolf — Lifting the curtain on Design Wednesday, February 23 • 12:30pm – 2:00pm World-renowned interior designer Vicente Wolf is known for a modern and elegant design sensibility guided by integrity and simplicity, which he has exhibited throughout his more than thirty-year career. Join Vicente as he discusses his new book, his trials and tribulations throughout his career and the state of the business today.

Vincente Wolf

Presenter: Vicente Wolf, Founder, Vicente Wolf Associates, Inc

W08 – Photographing Your Projects for Marketing in the Digital Age Wednesday, February 23 • 10:30am – 12:00pm Outstanding photography of your design projects or products is necessary for your company to market successfully in today’s world. But digital photography raises as many questions as it answers. Whether you are a sole proprietor wanting tips on how to better photograph your work, or a marketing manager looking for the most eﬀective way to use professional photog- Brett Drury raphy, you will gain valuable insights on what to do — and what not to do — in creating and using beautiful images to help your business succeed. Presenter: Brett Drury, ASMP, Architectural Photography Inc.

W21 – Biomimicry Wednesday, February 23 • 10:30am – 12:00pm Biomimicry is the examination of nature, its models, systems, processes and elements to emulate or take inspiration from, in order to solve human problems. Illustrated with examples of their work, Blue Sky Architecture will explore their interest in the natural world and how its forces have shaped their buildings.

Bo Helliwell, Kim smith

Presenter: Bo Helliwell, Principal, Blue Sky Architecture Kim Smith, Principal, Blue Sky Architecture

t11 – space on the go: Designing and Managing space for an Increasing Mobile Workforce Thursday, February 24 • 10:30am – 12:00pm With more and more companies looking to increase the mobility of their work force, with through alternative workspaces or telecommuting , there are new challenges the facilities, real estate, HR and IT teams need to face. Presenters: Kay Sargent, IIDA, CID, LEED® AP, Principal, IA Interior Architects Jeffrey Gay, Senior Associate, IA Interior Architects

Kay sargent

Jeﬀ rey Gay

t16 – Am I the Boss yet? Thursday, February 24 • 1:00pm – 2:30pm Many architects and interior designers are interested in becoming owners of firms, but don’t know how to get there. Listen to two principals as they describe the opportunities and pitfalls associated with firm ownership. carol Jones Presenters: Carol Jones, FIIDA, FIDC, FIDIBC, Principal, Kasian Architecture Interior Design Planning Richard N. Pollack, FAIA, FIIDA, CEO and Managing Principal, POLLACK architecture

richard n. Pollack

Thursday, February 24 • 7:30am – 10:00am Honouree: Robert Ledingham Keynote Speaker: Trevor Linden

For ticket information contact Sue Gravelle, Interior Designers of Canada, at sgravelle@idcanada.org, or call 877.443.4425.

Meet & Greet Networking Reception FEBRUARY 23 • 5:00PM – 6:00PM network with your peers. enjoy beer, wine and hors d’oeuvres. Visit www.buildexvancouver.com under “special events” for further details.

SPECIAL FEATURE | 2011 BUILDEX Vancouver Show Preview

FEBrUAry 23 & 24, 2011 VancouVer conVention centre West

Exhibitor List

(current to January 7, 2011)

Canadian Pest Control / Cannon Hygiene BC

A.K. Draft Seal Ltd.

BC Construction Safety Alliance

Abbotsford Concrete Products

BC Lions Football Club

Abell Pest Control Inc.

BC Safety Authority

ACO Systems Ltd.

BC Wood Specialities Group

Acrytec Panel Industries

Beatty Floors Ltd.

Adanac Roofing

Bell

Advanced Weatherization Services Ltd.

Benjamin Moore & Co. Limited

Air Quality Engineering Inc.

Benjamin Obdyke Inc.

Albrite Lighting Ltd.

BFL Canada Insurance Services Inc.

Alitis

Bibby - Ste-Croix

All Weather Windows Ltd

Bin There Disposal

Ambius

BL Innovative Lighting

Amerispec Ames Tile & Stone Ltd

Black & Decker Hardware and Home Improvement Group

Amichi Living Concept

Blanco Canada Inc.

Ampco Grafix

Blenardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Decor Ltd.

Apex Granite & Tile Inc.

Blu Bathworks

Asia Pacific Gateway Skills Table

Blue Grouse Wine Cellars

ASSA ABLOY Canada

BMS Plumbing & Mechanical Systems Ltd.

Atlas Anchor Systems

BOMA BC

Award Magazine

Bradlee Distributiors Inc.

Axis Insurance Managers Inc

Broadleaf Logistics

Bailey West Inc.

Brodi Specialty Products Ltd.

Curaflo of BC Ltd

Barclay Restorations

Building Technologies

Custom Building Products of Canada

Barker Manufacturing Inc.

Burnaby Manufacturing

Custom Ornamental Ironworks

Barkman Concrete Ltd.

Burritt Bros. Carpets

Daizen Joinery

BASF Canada Inc.

C.R. Laurence Co., Inc.

Daltile of Canada Inc.

Bay Resource Group

Cal-Royal

DARO Flooring Construction Inc

BC Apartment Owners and Managers Association

Calysta Consulting

DC Roofing Inc.

BC Association Appraisal Ins.

Canada Revenue Agency / Agence du revenu du Canada

Decortec Home Lift Inc Decortec Home Lift Inc

BC Construction Association

Canadian Engineered Products

Delineatorboot.com

Canadian Stone Industries Canam Canada Can-Cell Industries Cansel Survey Equipment Inc. Canstar Restorations Ltd. Cascadia Energy Centra Windows + Restorations Centura Floor & Wall CERACLAD CertainTeed Corporation CGC Inc. Chewie Media Inc. City Elevator Ltd. Colonial Countertops Commercial Electronics Ltd. Commercial Lighting Condominium Home Owners Association Constructive Solutions For Business Inc. Corflex Partitions Inc. Credit Institute of Canada BC Chapter Crown Roofing & Drainage Limited

Design Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd. Detail Pressure Washing Ltd. Dinoflex Group, LP Distinct Interiors DMX Plastics Ltd. Dominion Blue Repro Graphics Dr. Gum Inc. Dunleavy Cordun Associates Inc. DYG Windows Ltd. Dynasty Fireplaces Dyson Canada Limited Edgewood Matting EI Dupont Canada Elegant Vinyl Fencing & Interlocking Tiles Elite Door Services Inc. Eltec Elevator Ltd Engineered Assemblies Inc. Epoch Analytical Escott Sportfishing ETM Distribution Eurolux/Valley Evergreen LED Fab-u-Floors Finning Canada Fireplaces Unlimited Firestone Building Products Canada FirstOnSite, Edenvale Division Fluke Electronics Canada LP Folding Sliding Doors Canada Ltd. Forbo Flooring Systems Foremost International Four Seasons Insulation

SPECIAL FEATURE | 2011 BUILDEX Vancouver Show Preview

Fox Blocks

Kate Holland Landscape

Paisley Products of Canada Incorporated

Studio G3 Glass Graphic Group Ltd.

G-Mart Homes Supplier Ltd.

Kitchen Craft

PAMA

SunProject of Canada Ltd.

Garaventa Canada Ltd.

KJA Consultants Inc.

Pangaea Natural Stone

Suspended Stages

Garland Canada Inc.

KM Roberts + Associates Ltd.

Patcraft Designweave

Swiss Solar Tech Ltd.

GE Lighting

Kolbe Gallery

Pattar Cedar Products Ltd.

General Paint Co.

Kul Enerprises Inc.

Pella Windows and Doors

Genesis Restorations Ltd.

Leisure Bath

Penfolds Roofing & Siding Ltd.

Gentek Building Products

Levelset Technologies/ProSpec

Philips Lighting (div. of Philips Electronics)

GL Stone

Leviton Manufacturing of Canada

Phoenix Glass

Global DEC-K-ING

Lexxuss

Phoenix Restorations

Golden TimberFrames LP

Lightolier (Canlyte)

PJ White Hardwoods Ltd.

Terasen Gas

Goodbye Graffiti

LOGIX Insulated Concrete Forms

Plasti-Fab Ltd.

Terra Forma Design Group Inc.

Gracom Masonry

LSC Pre-cast Systems

PNA Group

Terratek Energy Solutions Inc.

Green Sheet Construction Data

Luktor Contracting

POLY-MOR Canada Inc.

The Jouta Performance Group

Griff Building Supplies

Lynden Door Inc

Power House Building Solutions

The Trex Company, Inc.

Grohe Canada Inc.

Mainland Concrete Lifters

PPG Pittsburgh Paints

Tile Safe Products

Guardian Building Products Distribution

Mainland K2 Stone

Premier Vancouver Electrical Appliance

Timbertech Limited

Haakon

Malco Products, Inc.

Pro-Bel Enterprises Limited

Hafele Canada Inc.

Mansonville Plastics / KEPS

Trail Appliances

Hambro

MAPEI INC.

Public Works and Government Services Canada

Triumph Construction

Hardwoods Specialty Products

Maple Leaf Self Storage

Harveyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s - Kuppersbusch

Margranite C&S Group

Public Works and Government Services Canada - National Master Specification (NMS) Secritariat

HD Supply Facilities Maintenance

Marvin Windows & Doors Canada

Quad-Lock Building Systems Ltd

Heat & Frost Insulators Local 118

Maxxon Canada

Quantum Lighting Inc.

Henry Company

Mayne Coatings Corp

Radon Environmental

Hilti Canada Corporation c/o Hilti Inc.

McGregor & Thompson Hardware

Ramos Parkade Services

Homeowner Protection

Measure Masters

RCABC

Upper Canada Forest Products Ltd.

Houle Electric Limited

MediaEdge Communications Inc.

Reed Construction Data

Valley Countertops Industries

Hubbell Canada LP

Metal Building Group

Regal Ideas

VanderWal Homes & Commercial Group

Hyperline

Metl-Span LLC

REIC Greater Vancouver

VICWEST

I-XL Masonry Supplies

Metro Vancouver

Reliance Protectron

Metro Wallcoverings

Viessmann Manufacturing Co Ltd

ICBA iCheck Inc.

Midland Appliance

Resolution Repographics/Fraser Valley Repo.

Viewpoint Construction Software

IFMA - British Columbia Chapter

Mitsubishi Electric Sales

Ripples Kitchen & Bath

IMAGINiT Technologies

Moen Inc.

Robinson Lighting & Bath Centre

Infocus Corporate Environment

Mohawk Flush Doors, A Masonite Company

Roof Consultants Institute

InfraRed Imaging Solutions Inc. Innotech Windows Canada Inc. Innovation Stones Ltd. Innovative Fall Protection Insulspan Integrated Pest Supplies Ltd. Inter Provincial Roof Consultants Ltd. Intercoast Sales Agency Interior Surfaces Investors Group IREM BC Chapter 50 J & S Cabinet Doors Ltd. Jaga Canada Climate Systems inc.

Monitors in Motion Moulding & Millwork Nana Wall Systems Natural Resources Canada (Buildings Division) Neogard Networx Renovations & Construction Networx Windows & Doors Nichiha USA Nissan Canada Nordic Engineered Wood NSD Disposal Odyssey Wallcoverings

James Hardie

On Side Restorations

JELD-WEN Windows & Doors

Orion Hardware Corporation

Johnsonite Journal of Commerce Julian Ceramic Tile

Synstone T.O.C. Green Pro Talius Taymor Industries Ltd. Tendu Stretch Ceiling Group

Tri-Y Enterprises Ltd. Tristar Brick & Block Tufdeks Ultimate Tools Universal Lighting Technologies Inc. University Sprinklers

Vinyltek Windows W Group WarmlyYours.com, Inc.

Schluter Systems (Canada) Inc.

Waste Management

Sea-Jae Builders Ltd.

Watertiger

Sherine Industries

West Coast Windows

Sidler International

Westeck Windows Mfg Inc.

Six Star Trading Ltd.

Western Elevator Ltd.

SJ Imports Ltd.

Westpoint Sales Inc.

Skyfold (Vertical Solutions Inc.)

White River Hardwoods-Woodworks, Inc.

Skyline Building Systems Smart Surface Technology Solid Rock Fencing Sound Advice South Fraser Stairs / Old Iron Studio Ltd. Spray-Lock Standard Products Inc.

White-wood Whittaker Designs Wide Plank Hardwood Ltd. Willis Group of Companies Wine Cellar Depot Wishbone Site Furnishings

Starline Windows

Worksafe BC

PacBlue Digital Reprographics

Starpatch Concrete Products

Xypex Chemical Corporation

Pacific Environmental Consulting & Occupational Hygiene Services

Steels Industrial Products Ltd

Yardi Systems, Inc.

Stonecraft / Aggressive Distribution Inc.

Zurn Industries Limited

Early Bird Deadline February 9 register by February 9 to benefit from lower seminar prices and FrEE admission to the exhibition. you will also receive your badge in the mail before the show! Visit www.buildexvancouver.com for more information.

::::::: lighting :::::::

jewels of decor By Heidi Balshaw

Schonbek

he lighting industry and the fashion industry are very similar with their trends and it has been said that “lighting is to decor what jewellery is to fashion.” No matter what design aspect you may be looking for, you will not be disappointed with the selection of lighting available. LED is the buzz word again and the designers are finding new ways to use this technology. The key to using the LED in a space is to ensure you are layering the light. Using LED in ambient, task as well as general lighting will not only save you money but will ensure you have the right light levels required. The innovative lighting designers that work in the industry have been creating some of the most progressive products that have us rethinking how we perceive light. They have combined both LED and incandescent lamps in one chandelier that changes the look of the chandelier with just a push of a button on a remote control. In some cases it may not even be about the light fixture, it’s more about what the light is actually doing in the space. This concept may

be a little difficult for some to understand until you see what is happening with the light. A great example of this theory is the Vertex from Schonbek. This series has crystals that go on recessed trims that help bring subtle elegance and sparkle to the room. These crystals are not only beautiful they also add graceful reflection and designs that are sprayed across the room and ceiling. Crystals are all the rage within the lighting industry again this year. Whether you are a traditionalist or modernist or anything in between, today’s crystals have something for everyone. Schonbek, the leaders in crystal and a very progressive company, has introduced some savvy new products. Shadow dance combines the edgy feel of laser cut metal with layers of graceful Strauss octagon crystals hanging from inside the light creating a stream line modern look that can accent any area. For the more traditional, Murray Feiss’s Valentina is a gorgeous crystal chandelier that combines both form and function into one magnificent package. The elegant curves and historic design are enhanced by

Crystals are all the rage within the lighting industry again this year.

Winter 2011 | DESIGN QUARTERLY

::::::: lighting :::::::

Kichler Tremillo

Murray Feiss

Kichler Lantana

the oxidized bronze finish with its warm gold tone shared with the layers of crystal which help define the history of this light. Transitional lighting has been growing steadily in all areas in decorative lighting. The combination of elements works well with todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lifestyle in both relaxed and formal decors. To get a traditional look the designers take the traditional product and strip the excess of it and fuse it with the clean contemporary lines which can create the timeless elegant look. Many of us want to keep

Outdoor lighting is often overlookedâ&#x20AC;Ś our classic pieces in our homes but want to incorporate something that bridges the two designs together and transitional lighting can be the answer. Kichler Lighting has many transitional lighting products and one of those product groups is outdoor lighting. Outdoor lighting is often overlooked and Kichler has helped rectify that situation by introducing two new collections under the Kichler brand. The Lantana and Tremillo will help enhance any home and help create a graceful and elegant curb appeal. No matter where your passion takes you, the lighting of today is an ever growing industry and your choices are abundant. If you are new to design or an experienced designer, lighting offers you a way to add elegance fun and a touch of glamour to any home. DQ Heidi Balshaw, I.D., is a lighting product specialist for B. A Robinson. B. A. Robinson Co. Ltd. was established in Winnipeg in 1936 and continues to supply a diversified range of plumbing, heating and lighting products throughout Western Canada. www.rlrbc.com 34

DESIGN QUARTERLY | Winter 2011

::::::: lighting :::::::

smart lighting design By Kevin Hall

elivering creative and effective lighting in residences is essential to the success and enjoyment of the home. Many of us grew up in homes where lighting for everyday tasks was as simple as flicking on a switch. Those days are gone. No longer is there only one switch and one light in every room. Today’s designers and homeowners appreciate and demand the creative lighting effects that are possible when one can dim and adjust multiple layers of light. Not only does this enhance the beauty, but it also allows specific lighting to make tasks like reading, cooking or entertaining more enjoyable. The offset to this is an increase in specific loads and specialty fixtures which significantly increase the complexity of controlling the lights and makes the electrical meter spin faster. Thankfully manufacturers have created solutions that simplify control, improve the aesthetic and make it all friendlier to the environment. Lighting and the features it illuminates become part of the decor, not merely a functional element. At the touch of a button artwork, architecture or any element can easily be highlighted within a room. The new generation of centralized systems raise the bar with respect to their ability to integrate with other systems and now deliver powerful energy saving features. Walls once cluttered with multiple switches are gone, replaced with an elegant keypad with clearly engraved buttons that control everything from room lighting and motorized shading to temperature and entertainment systems. These systems can do it all and are easily programmed to make the home behave the way you want instead of the other way around. Also new are entry level smart-lighting systems that communicate wirelessly between components, reducing the need for copper wire and making them ideal for retrofit installations. They are also ideal for those who want the flexibility to start small and add control to

other parts of their homes later on. The core experience for homeowners is much the same as with a centralized lighting system with advanced control from elegant keypads and powerful energy saving features built in to the hardware and software. High efficiency lighting such as LED and fluorescent lights are improving constantly and are set to replace standard incandescent bulbs for many applications. Using only a small fraction of the energy consumed by traditional lights these new bulbs are here to stay and will likely be mandated in many areas in the coming years. Advanced dimming modules make it possible to integrate these new fixtures into the home without compromising the look and feel of a traditional incandescent. Once only found in corporate environments, smart sensors can be added to homes that know if someone is in a room and automatically dim or turn off lights when no one is using them. New and reliable ambient light sensors reduce energy consumption by harvesting daylight — dimming electric lights when enough sunlight shines through the windows. Exterior lighting will never turn on when it’s not needed; it will know when the sun is up every day of the year and adjust its schedule accordingly. Vacation modes also produce a livedin look and do so at a lower intensity to save energy. In the absence of light, one cannot fully experience the architecture, art or even safely navigate one’s own home. Creating liveable spaces that are beautifully illuminated, easy to control and reduce our carbon footprint are now available that are better and more accessible than ever before. DQ Kevin Hall is a client representative with La Scala Integrated Media. La Scala has been installing and programming smart lighting systems in beautiful homes for more than 15 years. www.lascala.ca. Winter 2011 | DESIGN QUARTERLY

::::::: aia :::::::

upgrading aging buildings By Dedre Toker and Angie Paul

he Teck Building (formerly called “Fording Place”) is a concrete, steel and glass office building originally built in 1968 in downtown Calgary. It is one of many examples of this era of high-rise buildings, now approaching a juncture of rehabilitation in the form of upgrades and modernization to their interior spaces in order to maintain functionality. Renovations to aging buildings require careful scrutiny of existing conditions; what options are feasible or practical; how best to manage existing conditions (reuse versus tear down) and the given budget. Our firm has worked closely over the past two years with Teck’s executive and senior management team. The company owns the building and occupies 70 per cent of the building space while the remaining 30 per cent is occupied tenant space. An extensive cultural survey and focus group program was completed which determined the company’s core values and workplace attributes. This work has led to the current renovation and re-design of Phase 1, which consists of the main entrance and lobby of the building, as well as Teck’s workspace and visitor centre on the 4th floor. The existing interior was in need of a refresh to better reflect Teck’s image and brand, as well as to provide a better client experience. Within the main entrance lobby space, additions and upgrades have been made to establish the professional image and promote Teck’s culture. The entrance has been refurbished in order to provide a more welcoming and established presence of the company: new full height glazed doors, updated new reception/security desk, signage and new general lobby seating (which did not exist before), and upgraded tile (in some areas) and pedimats. The entrance to the rectangular lobby features two opposing entrances with a barrel vaulted ceiling spanning between the two. Rather than redesign, it was decided to maintain the visually pleasing sight lines of the ceiling, with the addition of a light box which will display corporate focus topics which can be changed to reflect the company’s evolution. Outdated and poor energy efficient lighting was replaced with new general accent lighting; as well as new low energy consumption (LED) down lighting in the reception/security area and above the new feature wall with interactive display units. The finishes of the

elevator cabs have also been improved with fresh tile floors, lit panel ceilings, and wood panel interiors with a featured graphic. Teck’s wish was to impart a better client experience when clients came to visit. The design team created a dynamic and interactive lobby space to fulfill this wish. A feature wall is located within the lobby adjacent to the reception/security area. This feature wall is comprised of three large super graphics with a millwork build-out housing three interactive LCD screens. The lobby also incorporates dynamic and static displays of Teck’s worldwide locations and operations. Signage bands wraps around the upper walls of the lobby depicting the names of all the operations sites associated with Teck in keeping with the branding already established. The upper level of the 4th floor contains the human resources department and the visitor’s centre. Much of the existing power and data was reused, although redundancy of previous upgrades did require a thorough “clean-up” — an interesting find was a lead sheet sound baffle (which was promptly removed). The new waiting room/ reception carried through the design feature of the main lobby with three large super graphics to carry through Teck’s brand. One of the strongest elements within the visitor centre was the desire to create a large open workspace area for short-term staffing and multi-use meeting rooms of various sizes and capabilities. The new offices and meeting rooms within the centre are located around the perimeter of the floor. Deliberate usage of full height glass modular partitions allows natural light to permeate throughout the entire floor. The design of Teck’s Calgary offices intends to create equality among all employees and unify the company. This new branding embodies the professional image and culture within the office of Teck Ltd. The company is seen as evolving, diverse, and focus-driven with a great deal of opportunity and stability for its employees. The project started April 2010 and is expected to be completed by December 2010. DQ

Renovations to aging buildings require careful scrutiny of existing conditions…

DESIGN QUARTERLY | Winter 2011

Dedre Toker, principal, is the head of the interiors department at Toker + Associates. Angie Paul is senior interior designer. www. tokerassociates.com

::::::: idibc :::::::

no reservations required By Jay Brooks

Yaletown Brewery

rom the outside, restaurant design can appear capricious — a wide open opportunity where everything and anything is possible. On closer examination though, we see that what makes a truly great restaurant is a careful and studied approach that systematically answers the demands of a purposeful point of view and results in a space that resonates with staff, media, and most importantly, the guests. Restaurants have always been places where we go to connect with our community. At the least, they feed our base hunger, but at best they provide a sense of place and belonging and a profound emotional satisfaction. Restaurants take us home as well as to exotic locations we may never see. They are our theatre, our living room, our kingdom, and our aspirations. But what makes a person choose one restaurant over another? In Vancouver, where diners spend more money eating out than any other city in Canada, how as a restaurateur do you compete with the hundreds of other establishments surrounding you? How as a designer do you make this happen for your client? It begins with asking the classic questions, the answers of which will form the framework of the completed project. First is determining who is the customer? What do they crave, what do they abhor? The clearer the vision is of the target guest, the better you can create an experience that is custom to them. When will the guest come? Is this a restaurant to celebrate an event or the perfect place to watch the big game? Is this the destination for the night, or is it a lead-in or closer to another event? Is lunch the draw, with its critical timing and business focus? Lighting, acoustics, table sizes and proximity, will all play into answering the when. Location, Location, Location — the question of where. Taking into account the city, the neighbourhood, the building architecture; the space should be relevant. What does it mean if the restaurant is in a hotel versus in a mall or on the street? How will the design change if the space is on a second floor? How does the location support the questions of who and when? It is ideal when the designer has the

Coast

opportunity to have these discussions and review potential sites with the owner prior to a lease being signed. This conversation extends to number of seats — can the location support the number of seats needed for profitability; does the number of potential seats work with the answers to the other questions? A space for 250 diners sets a very different expectation of experience than a room of 35 seats. Practical matters dictate the how. The how guides us to achieve a solution that will work. With the challenging failure rate of this industry, having frank discussions with the owners about budgets and expected returns on investment are critical. If the budget is limited, then taking an approach that is interesting or unexpected is superior to trying to fake luxury whether in menu or interior design. Perfecting the space planning to maximize efficiency in service is critical to bottom line performance, as is zoning the space to meet the various needs of the guest. A welcoming bar close to the entry, a place to sit where one is seen, a place to sit where one is private, a place for singles, a place for groups, quiet zone, high energy areas — all are essential to the creation of the perfect ‘room’. It is the resulting interconnection of the guests as a whole that makes the space work. The biggest question to answer is why — why will customers come at all? Why will they come again? The why brings it all together. It connects the neighbourhood to the menu to the decor to the desired clientele. Every decision, every choice, by the owner and the designer should be answerable to the project’s ‘why’. If we choose to use suspended lighting do we specify a designer chandelier or design a custom piece? What do we communicate through a heavy wood and leather chair over chrome or plastic? Hot colour or no colour? The why drives the designer to bring solutions that are ultimately the most appropriate for the project. The why is what brings integrity — what makes the experience feel real to the user — and what feels real and authentic is always inviting. Jay Brooks is principal of the award winning firm BOX Interior Design in Vancouver. www.boxinteriordesign.com. Winter 2011 | DESIGN QUARTERLY

::::::: design headlines ::::::: Workplace Matters

Lifetime Achievement

False Creek Design and Busby Perkins + Will were honoured with 2010 T.O.R. Workplace Matters awards, which celebrate the best in the workplace design. The theme was “Double Duty.” False Creek Design’s artful renovation and re-imagining of Covenant House proved worthy of winning the Small Space Design Category for this year’s awards. Busby Perkins + Will won for their City of Vancouver Engineering Department offices in the Large Space Design category.

At the Cities Alive Annual Green Roof & Wall Conference’s Awards of Excellence Luncheon held in December 2010, Cornelia Hahn Oberlander, was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award. For more than 60 years, Oberlander has worked as a landscape architect on projects of international acclaim.

Calgary LEEDs Ad Valorem Place has become Calgary’s first building to achieve LEED certification under the Commercial Interiors (CI) rating system. Certified at the LEED Silver level, some of the new green features of three-storey building include: energy-efficient lighting retrofit, including occupancy sensors; repairs to the building envelope and roof; and a new boiler that uses 15 per cent less energy than the previous system. Ad Valorem Place was acquired by the city in December 2008 and renovated to accommodate up to 225 employees.

Global Excellence Mitchell Freedland received the Best of Category, Residential Award from IIDA’s (International Interior Design Association) 1st Annual Global Excellence Awards Design Competition. His Ocean Front Residence was selected as the winner in December 2010. The project also won the IDIBC Best in Show and Gold residential award. The winners of the competition were chosen from a pool of design firms from 21 different countries.

Climate Action The University of Calgary plans to slash its greenhouse gas emissions by 45 per cent over the next five years and 80 per cent by 2050, according to the university’s new Climate Action Plan. The University is the first post-secondary educational institution in Alberta, and the second in Canada, to release a detailed Climate Action Plan after joining international efforts to tackle climate change. The Climate Action Plan identifies strategies for achieving institutional greenhouse gas emission reduction targets and highlights University of Calgary’s academic strengths in the management of greenhouse gas emissions and climate change as well as significant cocurricular student leadership on campus. For more information, visit: www.ucalgary.ca/sustainability/climate_action

Designed by Neale Staniszkis Doll Adams Architects, Canuck Place Children’s Hospice in Abbotsford, B.C. will provide 10 children’s bedrooms, five family suites, common amenities and associated medical support services. Canuck Place will be part of the Campus of Care located adjacent to the Abbotsford Regional Hospital. Construction for the 29,500 sq. ft. building started in early November and is slated for completion in spring 2012.

CEI Architecture, through Bevanda Architecture, which recently merged with the firm, has won Design Exchange awards for its Osoyoos, B.C. single-family private residence and for a park that revitalizes Kelowna’s waterfront. The Architectural-Residential award honours a single-family residence located on Osoyoos Lake in B.C’s South Okanagan region. The Kelowna-based Stuart Park, Phase 1 complex was also singled out. The Design Exchange Awards, known as the “Academy Awards of design for Canada”, promote Canadian design excellence and recognize the critical role of design in all types of organizations.

DESIGN QUARTERLY | Winter 2011

Alberta Woodworks

Ampco

Bartle & Gibson

Bradford Decorative Hardware Buildex

19 16,17

BC Hydro Cantu

11 20, 21

Coast Wholesale Appliances Commercial Electronics Frances Andrew/Kate Holland Hari Stones

13 7 9 28

Odyssey Wall Coverings OBC Robinson Lighting and Bath Centre IFC Town & Country Windowworks

5 15

Patkau Architects and Cannon Design were two of six firms that have won 2010 Canadian Architect Awards of Excellence. The awards recognize significant building projects in the design stage. Patkau Architects was honoured for the Cottages at Fallingwater in Mill Run, Pennsylvania. Cannon Design earned recognition for the Capilano Film Centre in North Vancouver.

Well Deserved

Two B.C. architectural firms have merged with B+H Architects. Bunting Coady Architects along with Reno C. Negrin Architects and the CHIL Design Group have joined with the global practice headquartered in Toronto. The new practices, now known as B+H BuntingCoady and B+H CHIL Design, will operate out of a joint Vancouver office. The new B& H divisions will offer global experience in hospitality design and leadership in sustainable design.

2nd Century Rugs IBC

More Awards

Canuck Place

Firm Mergers

ADVERTISING INDEX

Joint Investment

Photo Contest Winner Buildex Vancouver held its second annual photo contest, attracting impressive submissions from emerging photographic talent in Vancouver. This year’s winner is Andre Harmann with his photograph of the iconic Woodward’s building. His photograph along with second and third place winners and honour mentions will be on display at the 2011 conference on February 23-24. A panel of industry experts judged the submissions according to artistic expression, originality, composition and image quality.

Alberta and the federal government have announced a $10-million joint investment for improvement projects at 70 provincial parks and recreation areas. The initiative includes repairing and Correction upgrading hiking trails; refurbishing campsites; In DQ Fall 2010, in the article Designing a hazardous tree removal; replacing picnic tables Dream Kitchen, it should have said 12,000 square foot home and not kitchen. and fire pits; and enhancing viewpoints.

2nd Century Rug Co. and Tamarian Handcrafted Tibetan Carpets are proud to introduce the Phoenix Weave. Featuring a new knotting technique in 100% Himalayan wool, the Phoenix Weave produces a rug with a soft, supple hand and a textured finish. Visit us at Buildex 2011 to be the first to put your hands on this beautiful collection. Tamarian Hancrafted Tibetan Carpets - Stock - Custom - Limitless Options Available Exclusively at 2nd Century Rug Co. Ltd. - 3594 Main St. - 604.879.8432

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