FREE
FEB - MAR 2015 VOLUME 13 ISSUE 1
CALGARY EDITION
DECOR TRENDS
FOR THE NEW YEAR
tips and tricks RENOVATING
TO GET YOU MOTIVATED
GET EXPERT ADVICE FROM DESIGNERS JEF HANCOCK AND JANETTE EWEN AT THE
2013 RENOVATOR CHBA-CALGARY REGION
OF THE YEAR
For Those Who Value Luxury, Quality And Exceptional Design 403.203.7676 + WWW.ALBIRENOVA.COM
contents
VOLUME 13 ISSUE 1
FEB - MAR 2015
30
50 in every issue 8 Editor’s notebook FREE
JAN - MARCH 2015 VOLUME 13 ISSUE 1
business profiles 10 Trust premier builder Classic Craft Homes
CALGARY EDITION
BY MICHELLE HOPKINS
18 Award-winning Kurmak Builders: GET EXPERT ADVICE FROM DESIGNERS JEF HANCOCK AND JANETTE EWEN AT THE
PLAN A
GARDEN MAKEOVER NOW!
tips and tricks RENOVATING
TO GET YOU MOTIVATED
cover story
20
DYNAMIC DESIGNERS SHARE TIPS AT THE CALGARY HOME + GARDEN SHOW COVER PHOTO COURTESY OF BETTA LEMME
Building more into your home
BY MICHELLE HOPKINS
24 S.I.S. Supply Install Services –
your exterior renovations specialist
BY HEATHER RYAN
29 A 1970s kitchen gets a sophisticated update
BY MICHELLE HOPKINS
32 A dream home turned nightmare is reborn
BY MICHELLE HOPKINS
46 Gienow Renovations
boost curb appeal and save money
BY MICHELLE HOPKINS
49 Prestige Railings & Stairs
top choice among consumers
BY HEATHER RYAN
features 12 Time well Spent is
Better Than Money Wasted
BY ADENE LUCAS
26 Concrete countertops As easy as 1-2-3
30 Give your home a winter warm-up COURTESY OF NEWSCANADA.COM
54 It’s a New Year BY LAURA LE
58 Renovation Checklist BY MICKEY FOULDS
renomark 28 Renovation offers opportunity for homeowners
BY BRYAN TUCKEY
home and garden feature 38 Planning for Your New Landscape or Garden Make-Over
BY BONNY DANN / ESCAPES INC.
42 Planning, Plotting and Playing Outdoors: Renovating Our Yards
BY JACKIE SWARTZ
45 Winter Survival Plan –
Hot Tubs: what you need to know before you install
BY VANESSA GASH
etc... 34 rub-a-dub dub BY ELISA KROVBLIT
70 Scoop the look BY SARA DUCK
tips and tricks 48 Decoding the code BY MICHAEL NYIKES
64 2015 Shopping wish list BY SARA DUCK
67 Get your home on the right foot: Is the footing of your home healthy?
BY SHELL BUSEY
designer advice 50 Custom bathroom oasis BY SARAH BARBER
Renovations that Inspire
5
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FEB - MAR 2015 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 7
EDITOR’SNOTEBOOK
FEB - MAR 2015 VOLUME 13 ISSUE 01 VICE PRESIDENT, WALL2WALL MEDIA
Jacqueline Hill EDITOR-IN-CHIEF / DIRECTOR OF CONTENT
Susan Legge DIRECTOR OF SALES, NATIONAL
Josh Heppner SENIOR SALES MANAGER, WESTERN CANADA
Edwin Rizarri ART DIRECTOR
Victoria Cigan EXECUTIVE EDITOR
Sara Duck
MEDIA CONSULTANT
Is 2015 your year to renovate?
Anita van Breevoort, 403.461.5518 Anita.VanBreevoort@wall2wallmedia.com
Are you considering a renovation this year? You’ve come to the right place! In this issue, we get you inspired and equipped to make those reno dreams a reality. From helpful tips to design trends, a successful reno starts with a strong vision – and we’ve got you covered.
PRODUCTION MANAGER
Bala Gnanapandithan PRODUCTION CO-ORDINATOR/ GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Mohammad Haidarpour
Beginning on page 20, we have advice from design duo Janette Ewen and Jef Hancock, who will be guest speakers at this year’s Calgary Home + Garden Show, which runs Feb. 26 to March 1 at the BMO Centre in Stampede Park. This show is a great opportunity to connect with a slew of professionals all under one a roof – a must when planning a reno. Once you clarify your reno vision, selecting the right contractor is essential to the project and your life! But this is no easy task. Check out helpful tips from Laura Le on page 54. And for even more advice on finding the right contractor, the RenoMark program maybe just the service you are looking for – learn about it on page 28. If renovating just isn’t in the budget this year, think about updating your space with a couple key trends that will fit your home’s look. This could be something as simple as new cushion covers or a bright new throw for your sofa. Get inspired with our 2015 Shopping Wish List on page 65.
We hope you enjoy the issue.
Cheers,
SARA DUCK
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS
Viosa Barileva, Mike Terentiev, Miguel Cea CONTRIBUTORS
Heather Ryan, Mickey Foulds, Adene Lucas, Laura Le, Bonny Dann Escapes Inc., Vanessa Gash, Hellen Buttigieg, Michael Nyikes, Shell Busey, Yanic Simard, Bryan Tuckey, Michelle Hopkins Home Décor and Renovations magazine is published six times a year. Home Décor and Renovations magazine is distributed throughout Calgary and Greater Calgary area. This publication has been designed for the renovation market as a guide. Home Décor and Renovations magazine carefully inspects all ads for accuracy, however, the publisher and the printer shall not be responsible for any mistakes, design errors or incorrect information which is provided by the advertiser or their representative. The advertising herein, including the photographs and all artwork is the property of Home Décor and Renovations magazine and not that of the advertiser. The advertiser has purchased the right of reproduction in Home Décor and Renovations magazine only and does not have the right to reproduce the ad in whole or in part in any other place or publication without the consent of the publisher. The entire contents of this publication are protected by copyright and are intended for the sole use of the public.
WE’RE LISTENING! Send us your comments, questions, renovation stories, pictures and great ideas! HOME DÉCOR AND RENOVATIONS 2891 Sunridge Way NE Calgary, AB T1Y 7K7 T 403.461.5518
EXECUTIVE EDITOR, WALL2WALL MEDIA sara.duck@wall2wallmedia.com Follow me on twitter: twitter.com/saraduckHDR
Like us on Facebook (Search: Home and Decor magazine)
8 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS FEB - MAR 2015
Published By
BEFOR
E
Can y ou ope n our liv up and upda te ing are a?
yo ur
Renovations
Enhancing homes
lives!
BUSINESSPROFILE
CLASSIC CRAFT HOMES
TRUST PREMIER BUILDER
CLASSIC CRAFT HOMES by MICHELLE HOPKINS
S
teven and Kristen Mikulcik and their two daughters owned an acreage with an old farmhouse on it. Sounds idyllic, doesn’t it? Unfortunately, as nice as it might sound the reality was their farmhouse had many problems that made renovating it not worth the investment of time or money. “It was built in 1977 and there were lots of issues, including water damage in the basement and low ceilings,” she says. The couple hired Classic Craft Homes to build their dream home. “There was never any question of us hiring anyone but Frank and Dave (Dayka),” Kristen says. “Frank and I used to live in the same neighbourhood and I knew from other people how great their work was.” This past summer, the couple moved into their beautiful new Arts & Crafts 3,300 square foot home. “We absolutely love our house and the girls’ bedrooms are spectacular,” adds the busy mom. “The build process was super smooth. Both Frank and Dave had such great ideas and we totally trusted their judgment.” Everything, from the smallest detail was dealt with in a professional and timely manner. “When we went to select our appliances, floor coverings or whatever it was, everyone raved about Classic Craft Homes… now that tells you something,” Kristen says. “They made sure we were completely satisfied.” Sian Weaver and Blair May agree. “Many of their subcontractors told us how much they love to work for them,” says Sian. “That’s huge. That tells me that Frank and Dave
treat them well and that’s very important to us.” “We really loved our location in northwest Calgary so instead of moving, we decided to renovate our 16-year-old house,” says Sian. What started with replacing floors has morphed into major restorations including extending the footprint from 1,750 to almost 2,300 square feet of functional, open concept living. She has heard all the renovation horror stories but theirs is “seamless.” “I don’t worry about it at all; we have never second guessed them because we know Dave and Frank are doing a great job,” she adds with conviction. “That trust is priceless; you can’t put a dollar value on that.” Both homeowners say it’s because Classic Craft Homes treats each home as if it’s their own. “They take such homeownership of the project,” adds Kristen. One need only go online to read the glowing tributes – a testament to the pride, integrity, superior workmanship and outstanding service the company was built on. Native Calgarians, brothers Frank and Dave Dayka grew up in the construction industry. In 1989, they founded the company along with their father, Frank senior. “We have great relationships with our trades and our clients. We value the trust they have in us,” says Dave. “We only hire the most qualified tradespeople. Some of them have been with us since we started.” Discover the Classic Craft Homes difference. Call 403-730-0104 or visit www.classiccrafthomes.ca.
25 1989-2014
Personalized attention to each & every detail...Guaranteed. Complete Custom Home Builds Kitchen & Bathroom Renovations Basement Developments Entertainment Rooms and so much more.
#3 1303 44 Ave NE Calgary, AB T2E 6L5 • (403) 730-0104 •
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11
FEATURE
TIME WELL SPENT
IS BETTER THAN MONEY WASTED by ADENE LUCAS WHENEVER I WATCH HOME IMPROVEMENT SHOWS I EITHER LAUGH
In thirty minutes a house is transformed beautifully without any glitches, delays or budget overruns. The designer always looks fabulous and the contractor is typically hunky and full of great quips. The homeowners hug the staff at the end of the project, no money is exchanged and credits roll. Cut to reality, in my experience I have yet to meet a hunky contractor, nor do I always look fabulous. There are frequently glitches, some small and some which create delays. In the end, the clients are happy but at times it can be a long road, and one you need to be able to anticipate the curves ahead. The process can be frustrating and rewarding on a daily basis and television shows rarely reflect the reality. Now that the mini rant is over, I have a few suggestions to share that can help you
OR ROLL MY EYES DEPENDING ON MY MOOD.
12 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS FEB - MAR 2015
create a smooth renovation. Start by taking the time to hire a qualified designer and contractor who work well as a team. Great plans, and carefully thought out budgets, have a way of disappearing if the right person for the job is not hired. The contractor and designer you hire should have the technical, business and personal skills to get the job done in a timely manner and within budget. The process should be collaborative, and communication is key. If you don’t feel that you can speak freely at the initial consultation, then you need to continue the search. RESEARCH
Anyone can come up with an advertisement and claim great results and have a glossy brochure to sell the look. I have seen countless “professional” jobs that look very
amateur and border on unsafe. The best place to begin the process of selecting a contractor is asking family, friends and co-workers if they have recently had work done on their home, and if so, were they happy with the process and end result. Look at previous jobs, talk to other trades for recommendations as we all work together and a good painter will be well connected to a good designer, contractor and the like. Also check in with your local Better Business Bureau. They can tell you if there have been any conflicts in the past and if there was a resolution. Other sources are your local homebuilder or renovator associations which have strict membership requirements and standards to adhere to. Most people in the industry are well connected to each other and are happy to share trades they use, just ask. KEY QUESTIONS
Now that you have a few names of potential contractors there are some key questions that need to be asked. Are they insured, do they have public liability and property damage insurance? If so, make sure their policy is up to date. Do they have workers compensation for their employees, and sub-contractors that will be on site? These are really important questions because if a painter falls off a ladder and the contractor is uninsured, it is now your problem and you can be sued or a lien can be placed on your home. Ask to see jobs they have done that are similar to work you are having done. If it is a basement renovation for example, there is no sense seeing the latest kitchen done for a client. A good contractor and a happy client will be thrilled to show off great results. Ask the contractor if they are licensed, how long they have been in business and what their area of specialty is.
ANYONE CAN COME UP WITH AN ADVERTISEMENT AND CLAIM GREAT RESULTS AND HAVE A GLOSSY BROCHURE TO SELL THE LOOK.
Always request the business licence number and check it out with the municipal licensing bureau where you can confirm all the details provided to you. I am always suspicious of a restaurant that has a huge menu because they can’t possibly be good at everything. Neither is a designer or contractor. If they specialize in bathroom renovations and you want an addition, those are two completely different projects. Just ask, don’t worry about being offensive. Reputable contractors will not be offended because they have nothing to hide. COMMUNICATION
When interviewing potential contractors, you must be able to interact with them very well. These
14 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS FEB - MAR 2015
individuals will have access to your home, be in your life daily and must be able to understand your vision. It sounds simple, but really listen to your instinct. Does the contractor hear you, or are they pushing their own agenda? Do they respect your time line and budget and life style? Do they respond with concise answers, not vague estimates? Will they be on site or hand off the job to another employee, are they your point person? This is a time to ask the tough questions and write down the responses. Some projects can be quite lengthy and things don’t always go smoothly so it’s best to be able to speak openly and candidly. This relationship, like any, requires mutual respect, honesty and a bit of diplomacy. You really need to treat the interview as a process for selecting the best candidate as they are also judging you in the process.
and wood. To have fair estimates, the quote needs to be detailed with materials, options and labour costs specified. Of course estimates are just that, be prepared for additional costs. Renovations may uncover hidden problems which require more labour and material that result in escalated costs. Once all estimates have been received, take the time to carefully review them and meet with the individual contractors to discuss any questions or concerns. Be wary of any contractor that has a very low bid. Many times, that bid is unrealistic and final costs at the end and will be even higher than the highest estimate. Look for a fair price, receptive attitude, good suggestions, and a willingness to work with you. In the end you need to choose the contractor you feel that will give you the best value for your money. Once that is decided, it’s time to draw up a contract.
ESTIMATES
Now that you have researched the contenders it’s time to get estimates for the project. It’s best to start with a drawing and a rough idea of materials being used. This is where a designer can really help the project by sourcing out all materials and or finishes to be used. For example, if built in wall units are being quoted on, then the material needs to be specified. There would be a substantial cost difference between using MDF
RED FLAGS
As in any industry, there are always a few individuals that are not in business for the right reasons. Recently, a large renovation company filed for bankruptcy, after taking their client’s deposits first. Those homeowners will not get their money back, nor will they get the renovation they were promised. Here are just a few signs that should be concerning.
- 10 – 20% is an adequate deposit for the project to commence. Anything more and an explanation should be heard first as well as documentation in the form of receipts. LARGE DEPOSIT
CASH PAYMENTS - Any legitimate contractor will want to keep a record of payment and have anything that is financial be transparent. By having a financial paper trail, it protects you as well as the trades involved. NO PERMITS – Starting the project without a permit just exposes you to all sorts of issues with the city. They can fine you, stop work on the project and even tear down the project. Discuss whose responsibility it is to take out the permit. Without the right permits, the work can be delayed and the project is off to a bad start.
- Using a photo album or a few pictures is not enough to sell a job. Get a list of clients and tour the homes if possible. Most clients’ who survive a renovation are thrilled to show you the end result. Conversely, people are more than happy to share their negative experiences too, and you can learn from listening to what went wrong.
NO REFERENCE
A renovation may be a small project or something large and all encompassing. Regardless of the scope of work, take the time to find the right people to work with to get the final result you desire. It may not be television worthy but it’s your reality and one you will be happy with in the end.
- Any contractor who uses the line that they were in the neighbourhood doing work is someone to be wary of. Chances are they are looking to make money and not too concerned with quality. A company with a good reputation does not need to go door to door as their work sells itself.
CANVASSING
Your Sketch
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Photo Quality Renderings
d4e provides home owners with a fast, easy, inexpensive way to get drawings and plans before signing on with a contractor or architect. STEP 1: Sketch your renovation STEP 2: Email your sketch to d4e. Photograph or scan, either works great. info@drawings4everyone.ca STEP 3: d4e will send you a quote of your cost. Our prices are the most competitive you will find.
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17
BUSINESSPROFILE
KURMAK BUILDERS
AWARD-WINNING KURMAK BUILDERS: Building more into your home by MICHELLE HOPKINS
B
ryce Osborne and his partner Kurmak Builders and was very impressed with their builds. After that glowing referral, the couple employed them to renovate their 1972 bungalow. Evan Hayko had always “We needed significant work done,” she says. “Frank and his team were wonderful dreamed of one day living in to deal with. He was always calm, kind and treated everyone on his team with respect.” a home based on the design Sheila was equally impressed with the site supervisor. “The house looks great… of America’s greatest architect, Frank we are so pleased and honestly there is nothing we would have done differently,” she adds. Lloyd Wright. The flooring contractor Frank understands that building a home or transforming an existing home can be and his partner turned to Kurmak exciting yet daunting. With a passion for the industry and a commitment to clients, Builders to construct their WrightKurmak works hard to ensure the process is as seamless as possible. inspired dream home. “Honestly, the reason I do what I do is at the end of the job, I get to see the “Having worked with Frank (Gordonsatisfaction on our customers faces when we have achieved what we promised,” Cooper, general manager) for many says the seasoned veteran. years, I knew he was a very meticulous In construction, problems do occur from time to time. At Kurmak, dealing with guy,” says Bryce. “We knew he was the issues in a timely manner is simply the right thing to do. “Everyone at Kurmak one we wanted because we already had an established and trusting relationship.” genuinely cares about turning in a great product,” he says. “My staff work long hours and take great pride in what they do.” Today, the couple couldn’t be more As one of the city’s premier custom home builders, Kurmak Builders has earned thrilled with their 2,200 square foot a reputation for quality workmanship, innovative solutions, effective communication home. “We tell everyone that it is and one that is ethically driven. everything we wanted and more,” says “A good builder is someone who listens attentively and delivers what he promises Bryce, adding Frank would often be – that’s the Kurmak guarantee.” there on Saturdays overseeing their build. “He walked us through the whole If you want a company who is concerned with excellence, has integrity and process. They were on time, on budget an eye for detail, then call Kurmak Builders to discuss your custom homes or and we ended up with the home we’d renovation needs at 403-277-5525 or visit www.kurmakbuilders.com. always hope for.” He went on to add: “Architecturally and technologically speaking, Frank is very detailed oriented He has deep understanding and knowledge of architecture. He sketched comprehensive drawings… I don’t know any other builder who knows how to do that.” Another huge fan of the multiple award-winning family-run business is Sheila Speers and her husband Fred Wong. A neighbour’s interior designer had recommended Frank. She’d worked on a number of different projects with 18
19
COVERSTORY
Dynamic designers
SHARE TIPS AT CALGARY HOME + GARDEN SHOW photos by BETTA LEMME If you’re considering giving your home a new look, you’ll not want to miss the opportunity to hear from two design experts when they come to Calgary in February. Dynamic design duo Janette Ewen and Jef Hancock will hit the Home + Garden Stage at the Calgary Home + Garden Show, which runs Feb. 26 to March 1 at the BMO Centre in Stampede Park. Prior to their appearance at the show we had a chance to ask Janette and Jef their thoughts on home design and to share some tips with our readers.
20 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS FEB - MAR 2015
Q:
What suggestions do you have for creating a unique space? Janette: Unique spaces really are the only way to go, we have seen way too much “beige” and “safe” over the last 20 years and we need to break free of that. The best starting point to create a unique space is to channel an exciting and intriguing personality! Figure out what it is that you’re passionate about and find ways to incorporate that into a room. The room needs to represent your passion so people know a bit more about you when they walk into a room. Incorporate patterns, layer in whimsical accessories, add pops of colour… work in anything that speaks to you BUT balance it with some restraint. Most of all trust your eye, if it looks right it is right. Jef: Unique spaces are created with unique elements. If you depend solely on chain stores that everybody else shops at, it’s going to be harder to make your space unique. Try to balance out standard items with some fun, not so common pieces from design boutiques, local artisans, even flea markets and thrift stores. If you like to travel, and your suitcase is big enough, try and bring home a souvenir that will remind you of your trip and help personalize your space. I also suggest refraining from defining every aspect of your entire project from start to end. That way you leave some room for organic growth and cool things to happen along the way. Most of all, don’t be afraid to express yourself. It seems so often that people downplay their personal style due to lack of confidence or not wanting to take the risk. Don’t make your world drab just to make others comfortable. Take the risk, do something fun or wacky or weird. It will most likely be the thing that gets a conversation going and makes your space unique.
Q:
What are some affordable ways to add design elements? Janette: Pattern, pattern and pattern… Did I say pattern? Adding pattern, even a pop of it will add life and luxury to your space. A well-placed zebra print is the very essence of timeless chic. The best part of pattern is if you just add a bit here and there, it’s very affordable. Shop for fabric remnants or wallpaper ends and cover a footstool, frame the wallpaper in vintage spray painted frames, line a shelf or make your own pillows. Spray paint is also a thrifty stylists’ best friend, especially when it’s gold. Spray paint lamp bases, old accessories even a wooden chair for a fun new look. Jef: Thrifting, flea markets, estate sales… these are great places to catch a real bargain, and with a good eye, you can find some really neat stuff. Reupholstering can be more affordable than replacing that cool vintage couch or chair. Pick an updated pattern that has more legs than the latest trend (we don’t want to be re-upholstering every year!), and shop around for a good quote. Just make sure what you’re recovering is worth keeping around –
to be dying down some. I predict less throwbacks to poorer times in history and more throwbacks to glamorous times. Out with pallet wood and Ball jar lighting, and in with gold leaf and chandeliers. Less about The Wild West, more about The Roaring ‘20s. I also see vintage motor racing finding its way into decor through bold and subdued colour blocks, as well as those slip-stream early Formula 1 body lines being carried into more decor elements.
Q:
You’re on the Home + Garden Stage at the Calgary Home + Garden Show. What will you be talking about? Janette: Jef and I will be presenting our five-minute quick fixes and overall updates for your home. From hiding an ugly radiator, to styling your kitchen shelves, to rethinking your living room space we will take the audience on a design tutorial full of quick and easy tips to fix, furnish and update your home. ideally made from solid hardwood, and of good sound construction. Spray paint! Re-using and up-cycling are a couple of my favorite things when it comes to home decor. Lamps, picture frames, lockers – no matter how ugly the item, there’s nothing a can of bold colour or metallic spray paint can’t fix! Contact paper, in fun patterns, can also be an inexpensive way to breathe new life into something bound for the next garage sale.
Q:
How can you add colour or cheerfulness to your space? Janette: See above; no seriously spray paint a fun outdoor sculpture or oversized vase in a bold tone. As for colour I love a chartreuse ANYTHING, it always looks so fancy! Also great artwork is an instant room brightener, shop local art shows or even student shows. I think the bigger, the bolder, the better. Jef: Flowers! Fresh flowers are one of my faves for lifting the spirits and adding a pop of colour to any room. Plus they smell great, which saves you candles and potpourri. I like to keep my spaces simple and pick just a couple of subtle tones that speak well to each other. I then rely on two or three items per room to provide that pop of colour. It could be a throw pillow, a vase, or like in my kitchen, the refrigerator. My entire kitchen is a warm gray, birch, and stainless steel, but my fridge is Ferrari red. It’s so fun, and the red reflects in all the stainless steel, warming it a little bit.
Q:
Are there any new trends and styles for the New Year that you recommend? Janette: The biggest trend is that fun, freedom and whimsy have returned to the home. We’re moving away a little from the reclaimed wood, painted chalkboard, burlap pillow look (that said, anything in moderation can work). We’re seeing saucy patterns, new modern looks that almost have a Japanese-metallic influence... in addition the high society look is making a BIG comeback (think velvet, gold and marble), opulence in nature (gilded branches), deep Elizabethan red furnishings, monochromatic minimalism… and luxury sea-life prints. Jef: Well, the rustic look ever so popular amongst the hipsters seems 22 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS FEB - MAR 2015
Janette Ewen has been one of Canada’s leading decor and lifestyle experts for more than a decade and her Parker Barrow business partner, Jef Hancock, is an Oregon-born artist and designer. Learn more from Janette and Jef from the Home + Garden Stage on Feb. 27 at 6 p.m. and on Feb. 28 at noon. Along with showcasing celebrity guest speakers, the 34th annual Calgary Home + Garden Show will feature seminars and live demos from Calgary’s design, horticulture and landscaping pros, plus more than 650 local exhibitors. Show hours are: Feb. 26 and 27, noon-9 p.m.; Feb. 28, 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; and March 1, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
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BUSINESSPROFILE
S.I.S. SUPPLY INSTALL SERVICES
S.I.S. SUPPLY INSTALL SERVICES – YOUR EXTERIOR RENOVATIONS SPECIALIST by HEATHER RYAN
G
ive your tired looking exterior a facelift or replace those worn out doors and windows with new energyefficient ones with the help of the exterior renovation specialists at S.I.S. Supply Install Services Ltd. In business since 1991, the locally owned S.I.S. is your one-stop shop for exterior renovations from installing new windows, doors and siding to soffit, fascia, eaves, insulation and more. It can also create custom wood work and stone detailing projects, fabulous decks and front entries. One of S.I.S.’s specialties is installation of James Hardie products such as shakes, lap siding, trim and panels, and it’s one of James Hardie’s biggest “Preferred Remodelers” in Southern Alberta. “We’re seeing a significant increase in people wanting James Hardie siding for their homes because it’s such a great product,” says general manager Jody Roberts. “It’s durable, long lasting, hail damage resistant and fire resistant. “It’s also Engineered for Climate® so the product we use in Calgary is different than what they use in Texas,” Roberts says. “It’s designed for our freeze/thaw cycle and it comes with a 30-year substrate warranty that is non-prorated.” S.I.S. recently completed two projects that showcase the James Hardie product. One was to a 1960s-era side-split home in southwest Calgary where the S.I.S. team gave it an updated contemporary look by replacing the old stucco and wood siding with James Hardie siding in an iron gray colour along with decorative cedar. “We worked together with the homeowners using computer generated conceptual drawings to determine colour
24
schemes and the location for the cedar tongue-and-groove,” says marketing coordinator Karen Steinmann. “It definitely gives the home a contemporary look.” The cedar flows around a new Portatec front door, across the upper level and around one corner of the house for a continuous design. The second home in southeast Calgary saw S.I.S. replace the sandstone coloured stucco with gorgeous evening blue James Hardie straight-edge shakes, paint the bricks the same colour and change out the double black front door with an eye-catching single red Portatec door flanked by white side lights. S.I.S. also replaced all the windows and doors, added new fascia, soffit, eaves and redid the existing columns in James Hardie panel and wood trim. “The home presents a stately classic almost French Country style with its dormers and we kept the look but updated it and now it really stands out,” Steinmann says. Whether you’re looking to update with James Hardie siding or another product, S.I.S. can meet all your exterior renovation needs, Roberts says. “Why shop at one place for your doors and windows and another for your siding when we can do it all?” As an exterior renovations specialist, S.I.S. offers clients years of experience and expertise and it takes pride in completing projects to the absolute satisfaction of its customers. To learn more, visit S.I.S.’s showroom at 3517 64th Ave. S.E., open Monday to Friday, 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m. (after hours/ weekends by appointment), call 403-640-1334, or visit www.sisltd.ca.
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25
FEATURE
Concrete countertops As easy as 1-2-3
C
oncrete is an ideal medium to express relationships between art and craft, between architecture and contracting. There is something powerful - something emotional - about projects that evolve from actual handson experience with the material, coupled with an understanding of the pattern language of design principles. Imagine a countertop mix that you could form, pour, demold in 24 hours or less. SureCrete’s Xtreme Concrete Countertop redefines the word “simplicity”. The reason Hard Rock Developments can make this bold statement is because of the scientific breakthroughs in the mix design along with innovations in finishing techniques. Whether you are a seasoned
contractor or a Do-It-Yourselfer (DIY) there is no smarter or easier concrete countertop mix on the market than SureCrete’s Xtreme Series Pre-Casting concrete countertop bag mix. The small aggregate allows for the user to easily create any texture or look without worrying about exposing unwanted large aggregates. The preblended fiber put in the 50 lb concrete countertop mix delivers all the reinforcement you will need. That means NO rebar, NO steel, and NO wire mesh. This allows the applicator to pour his concrete countertop as thin as 0.5 inches. Hard Rock Developments is pleased to share their extensive knowledge, built on years of concrete design exploration and technical experimentation, and to offer their proprietary line of SureCrete
Xtreme Concrete Countertop Mix - plus all the tools and instruction you’ll need to make beautiful, long-lasting professional looking concrete projects. Decorative concrete countertop seminars are available. Please contact us for more information.
Concrete is an extraordinary material that is practical, expressive, and aesthetic all at once. The possibilities for creative expression are endless.
CONCRETE & CONSTRUCTION TOOLS & SUPPLIES Calgary’s Only Decorative Concrete Specialty Store.
We have the Products and Expertise to Help you get the job done right! 422 Manitou Road SE | Calgary | 1-844-240-2508 www.hardrockdevelopments.com | info@hardrockdevelopments.com 26 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS FEB - MAR 2015
REN
CALL FOR A FREE IN-HOME CONSULTATION
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Home renovations from the homebuilding experts. Backed by 40 years of building expertise, Cardel Renos makes it easy and affordable to update your home. From basements, kitchens and bathrooms to full structural additions and more, we offer a complete range of renovation services. Our renos team is on the front line of current design techniques, working with you every step of the way to bring Cardel quality to your home renovation. We’ll take care of everything from quote to completion, including all permits and approvals.
EVERY CARDEL RENO INCLUDES Free initial in-home consultation and no-obligation estimate Competitive, accurate pricing with no surprises Full-service guidance from our interior designers Large-scale samples and trusted brands in Cardel’s 11,000 sq ft Design Centre Highly skilled, experienced trades team Exceptional quality control standards RenoMark certification 2 year warranty on workmanship and materials Seasoned project management Full post-reno cleanup
SO MANY WAYS TO UPDATE YOUR HOME MAIN FLOOR UPDATES AND EXTENSIONS KITCHENS BATHROOMS
BASEMENTS
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2ND STOREY ADDITIONS
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VISIT CARDELRENOS.COM FOR OUR PROJECT GALLERY AND PRICING
27
RENO-CMP-1177-RENO_MAG_8.125X10.75_OCT 2014.indd 1
2014-09-03 2:57 PM
RENOMARK
Renovation offers opportunity for homeowners by BRYAN TUCKEY
BUYING A NEW HOME OR CONDOMINIUM IN CALGARY
is a great option for anyone looking to move to a quality, complete community in the city. But what about those who want a fresh start for their existing home? That’s where a home renovation comes in. Renovating a home has become increasingly popular among homeowners wishing to stay in their existing neighbourhoods. While I understand the excitement that comes with renovating your home, it is very important to do your homework and ensure that you hire a professional contractor to make sure your home receives the renovation it deserves. More and more homeowners looking to improve the value of their homes, as well as their quality of life, are opting for renovation.
MORE AND MORE HOMEOWNERS LOOKING TO IMPROVE THE VALUE OF THEIR HOMES, AS WELL AS THEIR QUALITY OF LIFE, ARE OPTING FOR RENOVATION. BILD is proudly affiliated with the national RenoMark program, which our association first launched right here in Toronto in 2001. The program helped homeowners identify and hire professional renovation contractors who have agreed to a renovation-specific code of conduct. This means they can rely on their contractor to offer at least two years’ warranty, carry $2-million liability insurance and carry out all work after signing a detailed, written contract. The program became so popular that it was adopted nationwide. Today RenoMark is available in nine provinces and more than 40 communities across Canada. What’s important to know is that every professional
28 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS FEB - MAR 2015
renovator you hire is a step toward combating the underground economy. The home renovation sector in Canada is still fighting underground operators who work on a “cash only” basis. These contractors pose a number of potential dangers to the unsuspecting homeowner. Consumer protection is compromised when you hire underground renovators because there is no written contract to hold them accountable for quality of work. If something goes wrong, you could end up losing a lot more than you had hoped to save with a cash transaction. That’s actually one of the reasons we first started the RenoMark program – to help homeowners renovate with confidence by offering them a source for professional renovators. I have heard it said many times by our professional RenoMark contractors. “You think it’s expensive hiring a professional? Wait until you hire an amateur!” If you are thinking about renovating your home or condominium this year, visit renomark.ca to use our searchable database of professional renovators to determine if the RenoMark program is right for you. The website offers numerous additional resources, including the RenoGuide – a five-step guide to a worryfree renovation. The underground economy is detrimental to our economy, our industry and the quality of our homes. It’s time to put a stop to it.
BRYAN TUCKEY Bryan Tuckey is president and CEO of the Building Industry and Land Development Association and a land-use planner who has worked for municipal, regional and provincial governments. Follow him on Twitter @bildgta, facebook.com/bildgta, and bildblogs.ca.
ARTISAN KITCHENS & RENOVATIONS
BUSINESSPROFILE
A 1970S KITCHEN GETS A SOPHISTICATED UPDATE by MICHELLE HOPKINS
A
Joyce was so pleased she’s recommended Artisan Kitchens to friends and family. lthough there were things “Dave and Lynn’s advice and recommendations were invaluable.” Dave and Lynn Joyce O’Neill liked about her Boulding come with a wealth of experience – the couple has been in the building 1970s kitchen, it felt outdated and wasn’t the best industry since 1982. From its inception in 2003, Artisan Kitchens & Renovations has set the standard for excellence in customer satisfaction and workmanship. layout for her cooking and entertaining Dreams turn into reality with Artisan’s Project Team approach, with Lynn as the style. After interviewing three possible Team Captain. She is also asked to consult on the more creative and complex renovators, Joyce hired Artisan designs. It’s that attention to detail that result in jobs finishing on time and with Kitchens & Renovations. extremely satisfied customers. “From the minute we spoke to the “Our highest compliment is when we are referred by our customers,” says Dave. owner Dave Boulding, he seemed “Customers deal directly with us… we appreciate and share the sense of urgency honest and genuine,” she says. “Then, with our customers to get the job done and done right.” as the process began, everything they said they would do, they did. They Thanks to Dave & Lynn Boulding and their team of professionals, Joyce has opened up the main floor and I now the kitchen she loves to entertain in. For more information about Artisan have a gorgeous island, new windows Kitchens & Renovations, call 403-207-7887 or visit www.artisankitchens.ca. and beautiful cabinetry.”
RESPECT
I
RELATIONSHIPS
I
RESULTS
RENOVATING SMALL KITCHENS CAN CREATE LARGE RESULTS... IT’S POSSIBLE! WITH YEARS OF EXPERIENCE WE’VE HONED OUR SKILLS ON THOUSANDS OF RENOVATIONS TO CREATE CLEVER DESIGNS FROM THE MOST COMMON SPACES, TAILOR MADE TO OUR CLIENT’S LIFESTYLE. YOU COULD SAY THAT IT HAS BECOME OUR PASSION.
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artisankitchens.ca
FEB - MAR 2015 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 29
FEATURE
Give your home a
WINTER WARM-UP Courtesy of NEWSCANADA.COM
THE COLD TEMPERATURES ARE HERE TO STAY – so as
you take cover indoors, it's the perfect time to put home improvement projects on your to-do list. Here are a few ideas to make your home feel and look fabulous very quickly. FROM BORING TO BOLD
The bathroom is a great place to start improvements, so if yours is boring, basic, or just outdated, it's time to make a change – even on a budget. Faucets are a simple and affordable way to instantly renew the look and functionality of this busy room. For example, the Darcy bathroom collection from Moen includes transitionally styled faucets that provide a soft-modern look and watersaving benefits to offer the best of form, function, and beauty in no time. The collection is also available in Spot Resist Brushed Nickel finish, so you'll save time cleaning, as it helps resist water spots and fingerprints.
QUICK KITCHEN UPGRADE WEATHER THE WINTER WISELY
No one wants to spend money on high energy bills, so be sure your home isn't losing heat through windows and doors that aren't insulated properly. Updates such as weather stripping can keep the cool air out while keeping the warm air inside – all of which will prevent throwing money out the window. And don't stop there. Simple tasks, such as replacing worn-out caulk, insulating your outlets, and prepping your windows with plastic cling for the winter months can significantly reduce heating bills.
IT'S TIME TO MAKE A CHANGE – EVEN ON A BUDGET 30 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS FEB - MAR 2015
Cold weather keeps us inside with far more cooking and entertaining in the kitchen. Decor advisers at Moen Canada say that the quickest way to update the kitchen, much like the bathroom, is by installing a new faucet. From food preparation to clean-up, the faucet is a major workhorse – as well as a beauty focal point. Pulldown and pullout faucets are a popular choice, such as the company's new Brookshire kitchen faucet, which features decorative touches and classic styling with a pullout design for at-your-fingertips water delivery. It's equipped with the Reflex system, which offers self-retraction of the spray wand, as well as a wide range of motion, generous reach, and secure docking retraction.
FOCUS ON FIXTURES AND FANS
GET FIRED UP
Nothing feels better on a cold night than getting cozy by a fire, but is your fireplace prepped for the season? For a wood-burning fireplace, inspect the chimney for nests or cracks. Next, clean it thoroughly to remove creosote (unburned fuel) to prevent unwanted fires. For gas-burning fireplaces, be sure the airways of the pilot and main burners are working properly and the blower is clean. Finally, be sure you have working carbon monoxide and smoke detectors, as well as an operational fire extinguisher nearby. Now it's easy to relax and enjoy the warm glow safely.
With shorter winter days, there's less natural light and so you may notice your fixtures a lot more. For added illumination and energy savings, update incandescent bulbs with brighter, Energy Star-rated bulbs which use about 75 percent less energy and last 10 to 25 times longer. Next, take a look at the ceiling fans in your home. Start by cleaning the blades with a gentle detergent and then switch the blades to rotate clockwise. Changing this setting pushes warm air down into the room, making it feel warmer.
Your home will operate more efficiently with these wintertime changes – and as importantly, it will look and feel fabulous.
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BUSINESSPROFILE
LITWILLER RENOVATIONS & CUSTOM HOMES
A DREAM HOME TURNED NIGHTMARE IS REBORN by MICHELLE HOPKINS
I
In 2006, Jody and John O’Rourke moved into what was suppose to be their 5,000+ square foot dream home - a custom built bungalow on a beautiful acreage. Within days of moving in, the young couple was living every homeowner’s nightmare. “Our house was slapped together poorly,” says Jody, who was eight months pregnant at the time. “The builder came with great references, so you can imagine how dejected we were when we noticed all of the problems… it was totally unacceptable.” The couple decided to hire a renovator to fix the problems. “We spoke to David Litwiller and immediately had a really good vibe about him,” says Jody. “We hired him right away and we couldn’t have been happier… he listened to us and was very honest about what could be fixed and what couldn’t.” Today, the couple and their two children love their home. “We have now hired David again to add an addition to the house, plus build a new garage and a pool,” she says. “We wouldn’t trust anyone else but Dave. He is super honest and he has great trades people.” She paused and adds: “David is old school, he thinks about quality and he’s very particular. He stayed on his timeline and when they said they were going to be here, they were.” The accolades are appreciated but for Litwiller it’s simply good business - it’s about ethics, accountability and trust. “We have an open book policy,” he says. “Our clients can come to our office anytime and review our trade partner invoices if they wish.” That attitude has earned Litwiller Renovations & Custom Homes a reputation as one of Calgary’s premier home renovation companies with more than three decades of excellence in customer service and exceptional workmanship. At any given time, the talented team at the boutique-style construction company is working on six to eight jobs. “We finish between 20 and 25 jobs every year,” he says. “We have one foreman on each job so that the client doesn’t get shuffled around from one to another.” To help homeowners understand the renovation process, David Litwiller hosts free seminars twice a year. He gathers experts in real estate, tax law, including a realtor, a Revenue 32 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS FEB - MAR 2015
Canada agent, a representative from the Better Business Bureau, to name a few, who go through the build from start to end. “We have between 100 and 120 attendees come out to our 90-minute seminars.” He stressed that these seminars are completely nonpartisan, with no sales pitches at all. “This is strictly informational.” So why does the multiple award-winning renovator take time out of his busy schedule to do this? “We are here to assist consumers to understand what they are contemplating; what better way than to put on seminars that educate and inform,” he adds. “I won’t sell a job that doesn’t add value to a homeowner’s home.” David and his team invite you to contact them to discuss your home improvements aspirations. To find out more about Litwiller Renovations & Custom Homes, call 403-275-2588 or visit www.calgaryrenovations.com.
BUILDING YOUR DREAMS www.calgaryrenovations.com
Less Talk
More Action
#12, 3650-19th St. NE, Calgary 403.275.2588 info@calgaryrenovations.com
FEB - MAR 2015 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 33
NEWSETC
rub-a-dub
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A LAST WORD ON A HOT TREND by ELISA KROVBLIT
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 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 – 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 – it's a statement maker! While the Victorians were onto something with their elegant balland-claw style foot, deep soaking basin and gently curling lip, standalone options today have evolved to fit your bathroom's style.
R E N OVAT I N G S I N C E 1975
INC.
Renovation Specialists & Custom Home Builder
jameswoodhomes.com
The tools of our trade have changed. Our craftsmanship hasn’t.
There’s craftsmanship, caring, experience and pride in everything we do. All to ensure your complete confidence in our work, from start to finish. There’s craftsmanship, caring, experience and pride in everything we do. All to ensure your
Call for your complimentary in-home consultation complete confidence in our work, from start to finish.
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Helping to build and renovate since 1975
K
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HOMEANDGARDEN
PLANNING FOR YOUR
New Landscape or Garden Make-Over by BONNY DANN / ESCAPES INC.
photo supplied by FOUR SEASONS SUNROOM WINTER IS A SEASON A MAJORITY OF CANADIANS DO NOT LOOK FORWARD TO OR ENJOY. While we may not always relish
the snow and cold, winter does give us a time of rest after the other more busy and active seasons. It is also a great time to plan how you are going to landscape the site your new home sits on or how you’ll do a landscape make-over of your existing space. If you haven’t planned a year ahead, winter does give you a few months to organize and arrange a plan for spring. Knowing your budget is crucial; as a landscape designer I find that people often budget for all of the upgrades and extra features they want in their home but tend to not plan ahead for all of the hardscape that needs to be done outside their home. For instance, grading, whether by hand or by machinery, is generally necessary on all newly-developed properties and needs to be done before any landscaping is started to ensure proper grades and drainage away from your home. Landscaping can be expensive depending on your wish list. A very vague rule of 38 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS FEB - MAR 2015
thumb is that about 5-10% of the value of your home is what you should plan on investing outside your home. Step number two planning your wants and needs, should only come after your budget has already been established. Having your budget worked out and an idea of what you want and need will help save consultation time and fees when you call in the professionals. Step number two can be much more work than step one, but will probably be more enjoyable! You can start by making a wish list itemizing all of the things you want to have in your new outdoor space. The best way to do this is by first deciding how you want to use the space you have available, and second by deciding what type of outdoor escapes you want.
Ask yourself some of these questions: • Do you want to entertain a lot? If so, do you want to cook for groups of family and friends in a grilling and dining space? Or would you rather entertain in an outdoor living room space with big, overstuffed sectionals, sofas, and chairs with occasional coffee or cocktail tables? Do you need both? What about a sunroom? If your budget will allow a sunroom they are fantastic for those of us that would rather be outdoors but live with such a short outdoor season! • Are you an active family that would use sports courts or places for children and dogs to play? • Do you want quiet, contemplative spaces, such as spa spaces or gardening areas? • Do you need play structures, storage sheds, potting sheds, or a studio? Try to think of all the ways you will truly use and enjoy your new outdoor spaces. Once you have determined the type of spaces you need, the next step is to determine where to put these spaces. This is part of what your landscape designer will help you do if you are using one. If you are capable and are doing your own work, here are a FEB - MAR 2015 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 39
HOMEANDGARDEN
few tips. Plan outdoor spaces for convenience, especially the cooking and dining areas. Because our climate, and sometimes our budgets, can limit the number of appliances in our outdoor kitchens, it make sense to locate those spaces as close to the indoor kitchen as possible. After that study the flow of the land, where people will tend to want to walk, where the sunniest spaces are for gardens, where there is the most shade for playing and relaxing areas. Now head indoors. From inside, visualize what you wish to see from the windows in the main living areas and master retreat. Some of this is practical; other decisions can be made based solely on what you wish to view from the windows. If you have small children you will need their
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40 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS FEB - MAR 2015
play area where you can easily watch them. If you are going to have a kitchen garden, growing herbs and other edibles, it should be located close to the kitchen. If you like to dine with guests and then retreat to a more comfortable sitting area, perhaps with an outdoor fireplace or fire table, the areas should be located close to each other. You may want to lie in bed and stare at beautiful gardens or glance out your home office window into a relaxing area with plantings and perhaps a water feature you can hear through the open window. The possibilities are endless, and what really matters in the end is that you are going to love and use your outdoor spaces! The final thing to consider is style. The architectural style of your home should play a role in the landscape design, but your own personal style should also have some influence. I find most people are automatically drawn to gardens in the same or similar style of their home. If you are living in or have just built a very traditional home, chances are you will appreciate sweeping, curved borders and patios. When adding the fencing, pergolas, or other outdoor structures, have them constructed from materials
that match or tie in with your home and in a traditional style. Likewise, with patios and walkways, use traditional pavers or natural stone. If you have a contemporary home with clean, straight lines, the outdoor spaces should reflect that with minimalist plantings of a more formal nature and sidewalks that are straight, not curved, and use larger, smooth paving materials for patios and walkways. There are always exceptions to every rule and this is where your personal style should dictate. Do you want more formal plantings because you like that look? Is your life so busy you want a xeriscaped or lower maintenance space? Do you love to putter about in English cottage-looking gardens, deadheading and tending to the needs of perennials and roses? All of these decisions will help your landscape designer create the perfect outdoor living spaces, just for you!
BONNY DANN is owner and expert landscape designer at Escapes Inc. www.escapesinc.ca
BOOK YOUR CONSULTATION TODAY! FOR SPRING 2015
Designing & Creating Outdoor Living Spaces,
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One of Calgary’s most creative providers of landscaping.
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We do complete or partial garden make-overs, from one bed to a complete acreage.
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403-803-0773 | www.escapesinc.ca | info@escapesinc.ca FEB - MAR 2015 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 41
HOMEANDGARDEN
Planning, Plotting and Playing Outdoors: RENOVATING OUR YARDS by JACKIE SWARTZ IF WE DID NOT HAVE OUR FERAL CALGARY WINTERS, then Spring would not be as exciting and pleasant. Spring is about plotting, planning, renovating, and most importantly new beginnings. We excitingly shed all the extra clothes and anticipate sighting our first robin. Along with the longer days and brighter light we turn our attention to renovation, especially outdoors as we prepare and organize ourselves for the ensuing planting season. A fresh new start! The concept of renovation is much more palatable and sounds more exciting than spring cleanup. I am immediately drawn to renovating my yard in the season where buds sprout and my yard anticipates the unfolding changes. Spring is invigorating and motivating. And with this season comes the delight of updating our gardens and enhancing them with novel features. This is a perfect time to engage in decision-making surrounding this year’s vegetable garden, composting bins, trees, lawn and deck. How do I start this exciting new venture? There is nothing like a good plan to inspire and get you well on your way.
BEGIN BY MAKING A BACK YARD RENOVATION TO DO LIST.
cushions, lanterns, curtains, re-purposed table COMPOSTING: tumbler bins, curing bin, thermometer,moisture meter, compost accelerant VEGETABLE GARDEN: add compost, start seeds, plant seedlings PATIO:
LAWN:
aerate, power rake (only if you have ½ inch of thatch or more), organic fertilizer
PRUNING:
trees, shrubs, secateurs, pruning saw
RAIN BARREL(S): LIGHTING:
connect rain barrel(s)
lanterns, solar lighting, low-voltage lighting
CLOTHES LINE:
make or buy a clothesline
42 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS FEB - MAR 2015
Organic lawn care provides better results than using synthetic fertilizers and herbicides. Your soil that’s under your grass is alive! It contains organisms that have similar needs like we do. They drink, breathe, eat, digest and excrete. When your soil is healthy these natural processes allow your grass to absorb nutrients and grow happily and with vigor. If your soil is compacted then it should be aerated. Organic fertilizers such as worm tea and fish emulsion are great soil foods. These fertilizers nourish the organisms. Synthetic fertilizers do not feed the organisms. They feed the lawn directly. Lawn cannot absorb a lot of synthetic fertilizer so the excess fertilizer ends up in our ground water, lakes and oceans. Using organic, natural choices will promote more drought-tolerant, diseaseresistant, and maintenance-free lawns.
And the children of our beautiful planet will thank us as well. Grass clippings can stay on your lawn. This is another great way to build nutrients in the soil. Since grass clippings are mostly water they decompose quickly. Clippings are not thatch and do not cause thatch. Lawn thatch is actually the dead grass and root tissue between the vegetation and the soil surface. Thatch can be at least a half inch or thicker. Too much thatch obstructs water flow reaching the roots of the grass. Thatch also obstructs air and nutrients and provides a nesting place for disease and harmful insects. Pruning in early spring promotes growth, improves plant appearance, and encourages flower and fruit development. Other reasons to prune include removing dead branches, and controlling plant size and shape. Trees and shrubs that bloom early on last year’s growth should be pruned immediately after they finish blooming. Trees and shrubs that are planted for their foliage should be pruned before their buds break. Evergreens or coniferous plants require very little pruning. Spruce can be pruned anytime because they have lateral buds that will grow if the terminal bud is pruned. Pines become denser if their candles (tips) are pinched in half. This pinching process is best done by hand.
Rain barrels collect and store rainwater from roof tops to use later for watering your garden. Rain barrels help conserve water and help lower costs. Rain barrels are cost effective and easy to install, work and maintain. Rain barrels come in various shapes, sizes, and styles. The barrels are available for purchase at most garden centers and home improvement stores. Growing your own vegetable garden saves you money. You can control what you eat and have the freshness by picking fresh vegetables right from your garden. Things that grow really well in our climate are tomatoes, potatoes, peas, carrots, beans, peppers, herbs, lettuce, Swiss chard, cucumbers, zucchini, radishes, and beets. Growing vegetables in boxes makes it more accessible and separates the rest of the yard from your garden. Boxes can be customised to suit your space. I prefer using cedar in the vegetable garden because treated wood can leach chemicals when watering your garden. If you want to stay organic use organic fertilizers and pesticides. Vegetable gardens are not time consuming. They need consistent water and some casual maintenance. Check your soil to see if it is moist, pull weeds as needed, and if you see a bug just hose it off. If you have limited space in your yard you can use containers. Composting is a great way to add nutrient-rich humus to your garden. It is a soil conditioner and helps your plants acquire the nutrients that they need from the soil. I have tried many types of composters over the years and I have found that the compost tumblers work the best. They break down scraps quickly and they keep pests away such as mice. If there is more than one person in your home twothree tumblers are better. My scraps decompose into rich black humus. I remove the humus and let it cure in my back yard. I have made a cedar bin just for this purpose. I let my compost pile cure for at least one year so I know that it is safe to use on my garden. It takes time for the good bacteria to override the bad bacteria. Composting is easy; however, keep in mind that you need to maintain a carbon/nitrogen balance. Usually composting works best if you have one-third green and two-thirds brown. There are many charts available on line to guide you in what to use in your compost bin. Go green and air your clean laundry with a clothesline. I bought my clothesline from Lee Valley Tools. My clothesline was easy to install and I can remove it for winter storage. Vinegar works well to keep your clothes from getting stiff. I use a half cup of white vinegar for my rinse cycle instead of fabric softener. I also shake my clothes before I hang them so that they don’t wrinkle. And the smell of freshness can never be topped with any scented softener. Nothing like the purity of fresh air! Give your deck and furniture a makeover this spring. FEB - MAR 2015 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 43
HOMEANDGARDEN
You can hang lanterns, make a re-purposed table, make a canopy or simply re-stain your deck. I gave my patio furniture a makeover by painting them. I added new cushions and now my set looks brand new again. I built a front yard cedar deck last summer and gave my house a facelift. Forty percent of the cedar I used was recycled. I used recycled fence boards for my window shutters. The concept of home and deck re-facing is becoming more popular. This is a budget-friendly and green way to update your home and deck. The steps include restoration, preparation, protection and decoration.
Now you can sit back and turn your face to the sun... feel the warmth of the returning light and longer days. Grab a hot tea and sit outside while your laundry is drying in the fresh spring air and know that renovating your yard is just the beginning of new things to come. After all, spring is about new beginnings. JACKIE SWARTZ Jackie Swartz has a Bachelor of Applied Horticulture Degree (BaHT) from Olds College. She specializes in the horticultural planning, design, and ongoing life of urban and residential environments. You can contact Jackie at: Website: www.wildstrawberrygardens.com Email:wildstrawberrygardens@gmail.com Office: 403-472-5082
Wicker Land Patio
All Weather Resin Wicker, Wrought Iron & Cast Aluminum Patio Furniture Fire Tables & Accessories CALGARY SOUTH: 6125 Centre Street SW • 403-258-2506 CALGARY NORTH: 4625 Varsity Drive NW • 403-258-2809 KELOWNA: 2573 Highway 97 North • 250-862-2011 44 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS FEB - MAR 2015
www.WickerLand.ca
Winter Survival Plan –
Hot Tubs: what you need to know before you install by VANESSA GASH
A
s the temperature drops and the chill of the Calgary winter sets in, you may start to envision new ways to keep warm. Instead of a vacation, you may be considering staying closer to home – and purchasing a hot tub. Before you install, here is what you will need to get started: a building permit and an electrical permit, and in rare cases a development permit. Most building permits are straight-forward and can be processed on a “same day” basis during a visit to the permit application counter on the third floor of the municipal building. Location, location - important information about where to place your hot tub: • 1.2 metres to any property line, • Not located in a utility right of way (this will be shown on your Real Property Report (RPR)) • Not permitted in the front setback unless approved by a development permit, • Placed on the ground, concrete pad or crushed stone in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations. For these reasons and to provide privacy, the back yard is a typical choice for most applicants. To apply for your building permit you will require a RPR or site plan, the proposed location of the hot tub and the manufacturer’s literature for the unit itself. The tub may be new or used, but must have a CSA listing; this information should be included with your application. Hot tub design continues to provide more features and sizes; according to the Alberta Building Code, some of the larger models are considered swimming pools. For building permit applications, The City of Calgary follows the definition from the Alberta Building
Code: tubs up to 2.4 metres in length or width, and up to 60 centimetres deep are considered a hot tub, anything larger is deemed a swimming pool. The important difference with regard to a permit will be whether the hot tub is permitted to have a hard top lockable lid, or if it must meet the fence requirements for swimming pools. In the latter case the fence must be 1.8 metres high, non-climbable, equipped with a self-closing device and be lockable. When you apply you will be asked to verify that the hot tub has a hard top lockable lid, or that you have a fence capable of meeting the swimming pool requirements. Connecting a hot tub requires an electrical permit either completed by a qualified, licenced electrical contractor under a contractor’s electrical permit, or by the homeowner under a homeowner’s electrical permit. If applying for a homeowner’s permit, the owner of the property on title must apply in person for the permit. More information on permit requirements is available 403-268-5311 or online at the www.calgary.ca.
VANESSA GASH, LEED AP SAFETY CODES OFFICER – RESIDENTIAL BUILDING REGULATIONS
Vanessa Gash is a Residential Plans Examiner with the Building Regulations Division at The City of Calgary. She is a graduate in Architectural Engineering Technology from College of the North Atlantic and spent a number of years with various architectural firms and homebuilders in Calgary.
FEB - MAR 2015 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 45
BUSINESSPROFILE
GIENOW RENOVATIONS
GIENOW RENOVATIONS BOOST CURB APPEAL AND SAVE MONEY by MICHELLE HOPKINS
BEFORE
AFTER
T
he front of your home is what neighbours, guests and prospective buyers see first. Replacing older windows and chipped or tired looking doors can really boost your curb appeal. Add Calgary’s blistery cool winter weather and this is definitely not the best time to have inefficient windows either not only does it affect the comfort of your home, but it’ll cost you more money. Estimates are that nearly a third of energy consumption used to heat or cool a typical home can escape through windows and doors. By replacing drafty old models with efficient ones you will notice a difference in your energy use immediately. For nearly seven decades, homeowners, builders and renovators have trusted the award-winning Gienow Windows & Doors for all of its window and door projects. As one of the country’s leaders in the industry, they offer a wide selection of windows and doors in almost any style and size, from sleek and modern to traditional; adding architectural distinction and personality to any home. “Many people think that installing new windows in the winter will leave them in the cold. What they don’t know is that we install windows year round,” says Dallas Paquette, Director of Retail Operations. “Plus, our years of experience means we’re so quick, old man winter won’t have a chance to get into your home.” New technologies in windows reduce air flow between the interior and exterior which helps to maintain a more consistent temperature inside your home. Gienow Renovations’ top-of-the-line windows are ones that will minimize heat loss and reduce your monthly utility bills. “We handle the entire job from designing and manufacturing of the product to installing and providing a warranty,” says Paquette, adding that new windows and doors also add higher resale value to your home. “Getting the product and installation directly from us is also a big cost benefit to the customer.”
Since its inception in 1947, the company has been committed to excellence in manufacturing and installing the highest quality products, while providing exceptional customer service. This promise earned them the prestigious 2013 Calgary Consumer Choice Award for Business Excellence in the category of Windows & Doors. When you call to book an appointment, Gienow Renovations will give you a date right away - no waiting for a salesperson to call you back. That’s the first step to ensure customer satisfaction. In addition, its customers have peace of mind knowing they purchased from a well-established company renowned for its knowledgeable staff, exceptional service and worry-free installations. Everyone at Gienow Renovations takes great pride in providing the necessary information so that you make the right decision for your home. With a head office and manufacturing plant right here in Calgary, Gienow Renovations offers a wide selection of products crafted from the best materials available as well as an installation second to none. Discover the Gienow difference and find out why so many homeowners and builders trust the experts at Gienow Renovations for all of their window and door needs by calling 403-203-8270 or visit www.Gienow.com.
46 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS FEB - MAR 2015
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TIPSANDTRICKS
Decoding the code by MICHAEL NYIKES
Q
A question was recently posed to me regarding the differences between Safety Codes Officers and Home Inspectors, and when to use each?
A
There is a big difference between Safety Codes Officers (SCO) and Home Inspectors. Generally speaking SCO’s are used by municipalities and accredited agencies to provide detailed inspections of new projects under construction in a number of different disciplines. Inspections by SCO’s are mandatory by law in order to receive an occupancy permit to inhabit a structure (residential, commercial, industrial, etc.), and is a regulated occupation under the Safety Codes Act. Home Inspectors, on the other hand, are used by private companies and consumers to provide more general inspections and opinions on the condition of pre-existing projects that have already been constructed, mainly in the single-family and multi-family residential discipline. Inspections by Home Inspectors are not mandatory for occupancy, but a good practice for anyone interested in knowing more about a pre-owned home that they are wanting to move into. More specifically, SCO’s inspect the construction, installation and maintenance of structures and systems to ensure compliance with relevant provincial and federal codes, standards and regulations. They are concerned with the elements of public safety covered under the Safety Codes Act, and an SCO must be certified by the Safety Codes Council (safetycodes.ab.ca or 1.888.413.0099). SCO’s carry out inspections on plumbing, gas, electrical or fire prevention systems, buildings, passenger ropeways (for example, chair lifts), boilers and pressure vessels, or amusement rides. Each discipline (plumbing, gas, electrical, etc.) has different education, work experience, competency and technical requirements. Further, there are levels of certification within each discipline. Home Inspectors visually examine buildings and write reports about the condition of major components such as the roof, structure, exterior and insulation, and plumbing, electrical, heating and other systems. This is a regulated occupation under Alberta’s Fair Trading Act and Home Inspection Business Regulation, which means home inspection businesses and individual home inspectors must be licensed by Service Canada (servicealberta.ca or 1.877.427.4088). To qualify for a license, Home Inspectors must have a degree, diploma or certificate in home inspection from an approved educational institution and successfully complete a test inspection; or hold a Registered Home Inspector
48 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS FEB - MAR 2015
designation from the Canadian Association of Home and Property Inspectors or a Certified Master Inspector designation from the Master Inspector Certification Board Inc. Future Decoding the Code columns will continue to answer readers’ questions about how the provincial safety codes affect their projects. Email your questions to me at decodingthecode@gmail.com. Be sure to include which city you live in, as well as your phone number in case I need to follow up with you.
MICHAEL NYIKES Michael is a nationally recognized speaker, columnist, and leading industry expert on building codes, residential construction, building envelope science, and environmental design. He can be reached at decodingthecode@gmail.com
PRESTIGE RAILINGS & STAIRS
BUSINESSPROFILE
PRESTIGE RAILINGS & STAIRS TOP CHOICE AMONG CONSUMERS by HEATHER RYAN
W
hen it comes to creating exceptional railings and stairs Prestige delivers unparalleled product and services focusing on customer satisfaction. In business for 26 years, Prestige Railings & Stairs has just been announced as a winner for 2015 of a Consumer Choice Award for Business Excellence in Calgary. This marks the 16th time Prestige has been chosen in Calgary on top of eight awards in the Edmonton marketplace, which shows that Prestige continues to step up to meet the needs of its customers across the province and around the world. Prestige is recognized as one of the most respected, reliable and sought-after providers of enhancement products to the residential and commercial construction industries offering everything from glass and stainless steel through to accent LED lighting products to complement their exceptional wood and wrought iron products. The goal is to become the preferred choice of builders, renovators, contractors, designers and architects when it comes to all things stairs and railings. Prestige’s innovation and design are at the core of the company’s success. In fact one of its motto’s is “if you can image it, we can design it.” While much of the work is crafted to architectural plans, Prestige is able to do custom work, and loves the diversity and challenge posed by clients that has them continually raising the bar on originality and beauty.
“Like most people, when you do something you’re passionate about you want it to be exceptional,” says Blaine Wickerson, president of Prestige Railings & Stairs. “Our passion for our products shows this in all that we do. We want our customers to be totally awed by the quality of the job they receive, but more important to us is that we’re inspired by what we’ve accomplished and that inspiration pushes us to do better every time out.” Prestige’s goal is to create peace of mind. It believes that quality is never an accident, it’s the wise choice and customers can rest assured that they are receiving a safe and significant quality product that will enhance their home for decades to come.
View our website or showroom and be inspired with the product options we provide. 2777 Hopewell Place N.E. Calgary Phone (403) 250-1020 Toll Free 1-800-382-8502 Calgary Region Canadian Home Builders’ Association
Builder, Marco Antonio Homes Ltd.
www.prestigerailings.com FEB - MAR 2015 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 49
DESIGNERADVICE
50 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS FEB - MAR 2015
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. 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! FEB - MAR 2015 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 51
If you’ve decided to get involved in construction, find a good contractor and consider these options: 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.
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.
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!
If you’d prefer to add some touches yourself, consider these ideas: 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.
52 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS FEB - MAR 2015
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
Rethink the Sink BLANCO QUATRUSTM Gourmet Series
BLANCO SONOMATM, dual spray, pull- down kitchen faucet is the perfect combination of functionality, clean lines and lasting value. BLANCO QUATRUSTM stainless steel sink collection offers modern design with a wide selection of styles. Blanco kitchen products represent quality, European design and German engineering. www.blancocanada.com
FEATURE
It's a
NEW YEAR… by LAURA LE SO… 2015! What does this year have in store for you? Some of us will be considering
renovating our homes. Maybe updating the kitchen or re-doing the bathroom is part of your future. It is extremely important to do one's due diligence when it comes to hiring a contractor to complete whatever project it is you are considering. The process of renovating is very lengthy and should not be rushed. First, the decision is made, now the contractor must be found. Asking friends, family and co-workers can be a great way to start. Reputable tradespeople can be very difficult to find and ones that are available exactly when you need them are an even rarer breed. If you are considering hiring someone to handle a renovation please do it with lots of time to spare. The old adage “if they are good, they are busy” is one hundred percent accurate when it comes to construction. 54 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS FEB - MAR 2015
WHAT DOES THIS YEAR HAVE IN STORE FOR YOU?
I work with a contractor who has 6 jobs lined up waiting for him right now; Les Popovics of Mountview Ltd. is honest with all potential clients by telling them he will get to their job as soon as he is able to and does not ever rush one job to get to another. Every one of my clients that has hired him has been completely happy and recommends him to everyone. Les says to make sure any contractor you
are considering carries liability insurance as well as a business license. Do not be afraid to ask for proof of these documents. Better Business Bureau accreditation is also a must, along with a contract written with the details and scope of work to be completed and itemized with a finishing schedule that specifies all work done and materials installed. The contract should quote the total cost of the work and the pay schedule as well. The pay schedule is different depending on the scope of the job but 20% should always be held back until completion and any deficiencies are dealt with. All changes and corrections should be handled in writing to protect both the homeowner and the contractor. If there are other trades involved in the project and there are concerns, you can request a statutory declaration from each trade stating they have been paid by your contractor in order to release final FEB - MAR 2015 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 55
payment or that they were paid at each stage. This could prevent contractor from not paying the outside trades after the homeowner has paid the contractor. This also prevents an outside trade from placing a lien on the property or suing the homeowner for payment. A second option when looking for a contractor is hiring an interior design professional. Many designers work with contractors that can be recommended to a homeowner. Having a designer and a contractor work together on a project is very beneficial in creating a smoother, more cohesive end result whether it is the paint colour or lighting, plumbing fixtures or furniture. A team effort between homeowner, contractor and designer will create a beautiful space. Here’s a piece of advice that is perhaps the most important thing to
LET’S SELL YOUR HOUSE! If you’re having trouble preparing your home for sale, call me… I can help you to make your home more appealing to potential buyers… I work with professional trustworthy contractors… I will advise you on what needs to be done in order to get the highest price…
FREE HOME EVALUATION! Call Anna Sindrewicz at 403-616-1373 ANNA SINDREWICZ Real Estate Associate Residential/Investment Properties
E asindrewicz@cirrealty.ca W annaincalgary.ca
56 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS FEB - MAR 2015
be said about renovating. It usually takes longer and costs more than the initial quote; this is not because the contractor is trying to squeeze more money out of you. It is because their job is full of unknowns, they do not know what is behind the wall until they tear out the drywall and find knob and tube wiring, or the tile selected by the homeowner is coming from overseas and it feels like it is coming via a canoe. This business has so many variables exactly like this and we are at the mercy of outside suppliers. Renovating is a job that requires extreme patience and understanding. A good contractor does not want to disappoint a client because it is a business completely driven by referrals. A happy client can mean multiple jobs to them and they know it. The end result of a renovation is a more beautiful space that is custom made just for you‌ enjoy it! LAURA LE CREATIVE ENHANCEMENT INC. Laura Le has owned Creative Enhancement for about seven years. Laura completed courses with Accredited Staging Professionals (ASP), Canadian Staging Professionals (CSP) and Canadian ReDesign Association (CRDA). Creative Enhancement has been a member of the BBB since 2005. Phone 403.807.8591 Email laurale@shaw.ca | www.creativeenhancement.ca
Be
rossinis.com
Corner of Blackfoot Trail & 46th Avenue SE, Calgary
YOUnique
MAKE IT YOURS!
(403) 259-4448 FEB - MAR 2015 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 57
FEATURE
RENOVATION
Checklist
by MICKEY FOULDS
A NEW YEAR FOR THE MOST PART STILL LIES AHEAD OF US and Christmas has become a distant pleasant memory. The first couple of months of any new year are always bursting with potential – that wonderful clean slate just waiting for all of our best intentions to be realised! Frequently this fresh perspective includes cleaning up the home, diminishing clutter and rearranging the furniture. Or alternatively pushing it to the extreme and starting “The Reno”! The first reaction one gets from most people when mentioning the dreaded “R” word is a horror story. Or more likely a series of horror stories accompanied by dire warnings. Maybe it is better to just sell your house and move, rather than renovate. Or play it safe, paint a few walls yourself and find some new art and throw pillows if you feel you need a change! Budgets blow out, timelines are tripled, drywall dust will permeate every square inch, contractors are a law unto themselves, your life will never be the same again and you will have to book an extended holiday in a faraway destination if you ever hope to recover from the ordeal.
FEB - MAR 2015 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 59
SOMETIMES A COSMETIC MAKEOVER IS ALL THAT IS NEEDED – Now that we have addressed the basics, back to the concept. Your home is one of the biggest investments you will make. It is not only economically important, but it is also Your Home! A place to retreat at the end of the day, where you can curl up with a good book and a cup of tea in the winter, entertain your friends or spend precious time with your friends or family. It needs to feel good and work well. It is there to serve you.
60 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS FEB - MAR 2015
Sometimes a cosmetic makeover is all that is needed – fresh paint, new cabinet handles or light fixtures and some refreshed furniture and accessories. Phenomenal change can be achieved this way. Many of my staging clients are amazed at how their homes look after a few hours of editing and rearrangement. There are also cost effective ways of updating kitchens and bathrooms without a massive tear out and reconstruction, leaving you with a travel budget for your Greek Island dream cruise in addition to the update at home.
THERE ARE A NUMBER OF STEPS TO BE FOLLOWED TO ENSURE AS SMOOTH A JOURNEY AS POSSIBLE.
1.
Read http://www.servi cealberta.gov.ab.ca/pd f/tipsheets/Home_ Renovations.pdf. Not just once, but several times and follow throu every single recomme gh with ndation. It is a blueprin t for the process of en contractors. Both Servi gaging ce Alberta and the Be tter Business Bureau resources if you have are great questions and concern s.
2. 3.
Never feel shy about ask ing for proof of insuranc e, references, checking on business registrations etc. Bona fide contractors are on too happy to share the ly se with you as it protec ts them too. Be aware that renovati ng is an organic proce ss, not a rigorous scien project. Things can tak ce e unexpected turns, tak e longer than expecte cost more than anticipa d or ted. Build this into your your contractor as a tea expectations. Work wi th m rather than trying to hold his feet to the fire. prefers projects that run He also smoothly and predictab ly.
4. 5.
Finally, there are those situations where spaces are dysfunctional and outdated, and little can be achieved without biting the bullet and doing it properly. In this situation there are a number of steps to be followed to ensure as smooth a journey as possible.
Create your wish list. Pla n carefully. Once comm itted, make decisions and selections well ah ead of time so that de lays are avoided. Be flex about changes – some ible times they result in an even better end result. Set a realistic budget. Enough to cover your expectations with a bu buffer for the unexpecte ilt in d. Change the scope of the project if it looks as though you are stretc hed too thinly. Rememb pay for so don’t take the er, you get what you cheap route. Many ren ovations can be done phases over a couple in multiple of years.
6. 7. 8.
Choose your renovation team wisely, and remem ber that they are not the en emy, and that they als o need to make a living!
Read all contracts thorou ghly. More than once. Don’t just assume that because they look like a legal document that they will address all of needs. Understand tha your t they are there to protec t your contractor too. Look at the logistics of your living arrangements during the renovation. Obviously your comfort will be disrupted, so str eamline whatever you can and make it as ple asant as possible. Camp sure your diet does no ing can be fun! Make t consist purely of fast food – it will affect your well-being and conseq sense of uently your tolerance for challenges!
61
As with all things in life, your attitude has a profound effect on your experience. If you think it is going to be a miserable experience it probably will, because that is what you have on your radar. Conversely, if you are excited about the project and realistic about the journey, it will be a far more pleasant few months. If you have concerns or questions, discuss these with your team as soon as possible. This avoids misunderstandings. At all times make your expectations clear and reasonable. Be flexible but firm if necessary, and contribute to a culture of mutual respect on site. Finally, keep your eye on the goal posts and carry the vision of the end result in your mind. It will be worth it when the door finally closes behind all the trades and the dust has settled, and you have your MICKEY FOULDS MSC CID CRSS Metamorphosis Design Ltd. fabulous new interiors to enjoy for phone 403.651.3462 years to come. email metamorphosisdesign@shaw.ca
W
621 - Manitou Road SE
Ph: 403.852.2524 Hours: Monday - Friday - 8-5
Saturday 9-4
Canadian Home Builders’ Association
brad@lakeviewfloors.ca I www.lakeviewfloors.ca • Hardwood • Tile • Cork • Bamboo • Carpet • Laminate • LVT • Congoleum • Dura Ceramic 62 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS FEB - MAR 2015
®
Calgary Region
®
YEAR ROUND SAVINGS...
BEFORE
YEAR ROUND COMFORT!
*UP TO 15% OFF YOUR NEXT RENOVATION PKG.
WE DO HAIL CLAIMS
W I N D O W S • D O O R S • S I D I N G • S U N R O O M S • PAT I O C O V E R S • P R O F I L E C L A D D I N G
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COMPLETE EXTERIOR RENOVATION SERVICES Visit our showroom #3, 1430 40th Ave. NE, Calgary CALL FOR A FREE CONSULTATION Showroom Hours: Monday to Friday 8:30am to 4:00pm After hour appointments on request
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*This renovation pkg. Excludes hail claims, existing orders and cannot be combined with any other specials.
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TIPSANDTRICKS
1.
2.
2015 Shopping wish list
THIS SEASON’S HOTTEST TRENDS ARE A REAL MASH-UP! YOU CAN SEE INFLUENCES OF THE ‘70s, SCANDINAVIAN STYLE AND MID-CENTURY MODERN MIXED WITH TONS OF PATTERN – IT’S AN INTERESTING TIME IN DESIGN! HERE ARE 11 PIECES CURRENTLY ON OUR DECOR WISH LIST. by SARA DUCK
3.
1. Kate Spade Saturday
4.
Floral Print Anders Chair. $719. VISIT WESTELM.COM
2. SMEG Mixer in Pastel Blue. $550. VISIT WESTELM.COM
3. Oslo Five-Piece Cutlery Set in Black. $75. VISIT CHAPTERS.INDIGO.CA
4. Underline Dinnerware. $5-$7. VISIT CB2.COM
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TIPSANDTRICKS
6. 7.
5.
8.
10.
9.
11.
5. Graciosa Drum Accent Table in Brown. $170. VISIT PIER1.CA
6. Sillerup Rug in Black and White. $149. VISIT IKEA.CA
7. Eve Pendant. $249. VISIT CRATEANDBARREL.CA
8. Canyon Vase. $60. VISIT CB2.COM 9. Silk Bauble Pillow in Forest. $69. VISIT CHAPTERS.INDIGO.CA
10. Double-Sided Throw in Celery. $49. VISIT CHAPTERS.INDIGO.CA
11. Paradigm Dining Table. $999. VISIT CB2.COM
66 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS FEB - MAR 2015
TIPSANDTRICKS
Get your home on the right foot: Is the footing of your home healthy? by SHELL BUSEY
HOW WOULD YOU LIKE TO BE A NEW HOMEBUYER TAPPED out with
your new mortgage payments, only to find that you have a musty, damp crawlspace or basement? Then you find that your perimeter drainage requires more than just cleaning, but instead requires digging around your home to replace or repair unserviced drainage tiles costing in the thousands of dollars. When completed you gain a fresh smelling crawlspace or basement but nothing that is aesthetically pleasing.
DID YOU HAVE A HOME INSPECTION DONE WHEN YOU BOUGHT YOUR LAST HOUSE? Folks, I don’t mean to scare you, but I have to write with your best interests in mind. Ask yourself, did you have a home inspection done when you bought your last house? Did they address anything to do with drainage, odours, white powder on concrete walls or floors in the crawlspace or basement? This is about as far as home inspectors can go, they do not have x-ray eyes to see into the ground. In fact, in some homes they can’t even see the concrete catch basin sump the drainage tiles run into before the water is taken to the city storm sewer system. Does this topic interest you now? This is just the beginning. This is what I would like you to get from this article regarding drainage: It is the feet of your home, and you know how you would function if your feet were wet all the time. If your home is 10 years of age or older, you know the history of your home, and nothing has been done regarding drainage maintenance; your drainage requires, if nothing else, an inspection by a qualified drainage contractor.
68 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS FEB - MAR 2015
Here are some points that should be addressed.
If you are buying or selling a home be prepared to answer these questions, as this information is as important as any other inspections item. So do not forget in your subject options on an offer of purchase to include “subject to perimeter drainage inspection”. It’s just that easy!
1. How long have you lived in your home? 2. Where is the collector catchment sump? (If there is one, some homes don’t have one) 3. How close are the trees, shrubs, and back fill settlement to the home? 4. Is it a level, sloping or is there a swale on the lot? 5. When was the last perimeter (weeping tile) service completed? 6. Any signs of moisture in the crawlspace, basement including damp carpet,
For more home-improvement information, to find a reputable drainage contractor or information on upcoming seminars, contact Shell Busey’s HouseSmart Home Services. Go to www.askshell.com
white powder, musty odours, or wood flooring stains? Note: These could appear on the floor, wall or where concrete floors and wall meet.
7. Any home 10 years or older with no history of drainage maintenance should have one done as soon as possible.
8. After a first initial maintenance cleaning it should be repeated every three - five years thereafter. Your drainage contactor will advise you as to which you should consider. It will be based on their findings when the initial service is completed.
Shell Busey’s House Smart Club
SHELL BUSEY
Benefits: »Ask your home improvements questions for a personal email response from Shell »New product reports
If you are not already a member now is the time to do so as it is free until further notice.
It’s just that easy!
»New building code information »What’s new for (DIY) Do It Yourself »Show updates
™
Log onto
AskShell.com
and follow the prompts.
»Find out when Shell will be in your area »View Shell’s informational and helpful Videos
ADVERTISERS DIRECTORY Albi Renova___________________________________________ 3
Lakeview Floors______________________________________ 62
Anna Sindrewicz (Cir Realty)___________________________ 56
Litweller Renovations & Custom Homes________________ 15
Artisan Kitchens & Renovations________________________ 29 Blanco Canada Inc.___________________________________ 53 Calgary Home & Garden Show________________________ 29
Mountview Renovations Inc.___________________________ 17 Prestige Railings & Stairs Ltd. _________________________ 49
Cardel Renos_________________________________________ 27
Rossini Furniture_____________________________________ 57
Classic Craft Homes___________________________________ 40
Rusco Industries _____________________________________ 63
Drawings 4 Everyone_________________________________ 16 Enhance Your Home____________________________________ 9 Escape Inc.___________________________________________ 41 Four Seasons Sunrooms______________________________ 40
Sheila’s Windowtoppers & More Ltd.___________________ 31 Shelfgenie___________________________________________ 52 Shell Busey__________________________________________ 69
Gienow Renovations by Ply Gem______________________ 47
S.I.S. Supply Install Services Ltd._______________________ 25
Hard Rock Developments______________________________ 26
Spindle, Stairs & Railings Ltd. _______________________ OBC
Interiors with Elegance_________________________________ 5 Jameswood Homes Inc._______________________________ 34 Kayu Canada Inc._____________________________________ 36
Trademark Renovations______________________________ IBC Ultimate Renovations ________________________________ 1FC
Kon-Strux Developments______________________________ 14
Wallace Fleming Design & Renovate ____________________ 7
Kurmak Builders______________________________________ 19
Wicker Land Patio_____________________________________ 44
SCOOP the LOOK
70s inspired decor is a huge trend this season!
by SA R A DU C K PEGGY SOFA. $1,199. VISIT WESTELM.COM Stockholm Coffee Table in Walnut Vaneer. $300. VISIT IKEA.CA
Abstract Art. $80. VISIT HOMESENSE.CA
Curva Floor Lamp. $329. VISIT STRUCTUBE.COM
Trad
Make no compromises‌
Quality, Transparency, Value
OUR BEST PRICE GUARANTEE
*On renovation projects $100,000 and up, we will match and better a recognized competitor’s quote by 10%. At Trademark Renovations, we are constantly reviewing and negotiating wholesale pricing arrangements with our supplier & trade partners to get you the best value for your money. We are so confident about our pricing that we guarantee you the lowest price for your overall renovation project while delivering our unsurpassed level of quality, service and transparency.
(403) 277-5600 www.trademarkrenovations.com
TERMS & CONDITIONS: This Best Price Guarantee applies to projects based on identical scopes of work, specifications, products, levels of finish, service, and quality. Best Price Guarantee applies to overall total project price and not the individual components contained therein. All recognized competitor quotes are subject to verification by Trademark before honoring this offer. Trademark will not accept screenshots or other purported evidence of a lower price that cannot be independently confirmed by Trademark personnel. Nor will Trademark verify any request that it believes, in its sole discretion, is the result of a printing or other error or is made fraudulently or in bad faith. All original documents from recognized competitor quotes must be presented to Trademark prior to verification, execution of any contract or commencement of work. This Price Guarantee excludes insurance claims, free offers, gifts with purchase, gift cards, gift certificates, rebates, clearance or close-out prices, credit or financing programs, used, damaged, or display merchandise or products. Discount applied before taxes and environmental stewardship fees or other levies, if applicable. This price guarantee cannot be combined with any other offer. Trademark reserves the right in its sole discretion to modify or discontinue the Best Price Guarantee or to restrict its availability to any person, at any time, for any or no reason, and without prior notice or liability to you. The failure by Trademark to enforce any provision of these Terms & Conditions shall not constitute a waiver of that provision.
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