Calgary Home Decor & Renovations - ARP/MAY 2014

FREE

APR - MAY 2014 VOLUME 12 ISSUE 2

CALGARY EDITION

Cardel Renos done right NEW TRENDS FOR

KITCHENS & BATHROOMS

Marie-Claire Williams and Clare Gardner, Sales & Design Consultants, CARDEL RENOVATIONS

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GETTING READY FOR SPRING!

2014-03-12 2:00 PM

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IN

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contents

VOLUME 12 ISSUE 2

APRIL - MAY 2014

11 cover story

11

NEW TRENDS

for kitchen and bathrooms

BY HEATHER RYAN

features

tips & tricks

18 Renovating cents

27 Spend Vs. Save

BY ADENE LUCAS

50 Kitchen & bathroom investment

BY MICKEY FOULDS

60 What is your design style?

BY LAURA LE

06 Editor’s notebook

48 Style Report

BY SARA DUCK

55 The secret to a successful

renovation starts with a plan

BY BRYAN TUCKEY

56 Trends & Transformations

16 Gienow Renovations by

66 Decoding the code

Ply Gem just got better

BY HEATHER RYAN

23 Home Boss Inc. focuses on quality renovations

BY YANIC SIMARD

BY MICHAEL NYIKES

67 Conserving Energy Resources

BY SHELL BUSEY

BY HEATHER RYAN

24 Enhance your Home simplifies

BY HEATHER RYAN

33 Custom is the standard for Rock Solid Renovations

BY HEATHER RYAN

*Cover Photo Courtesy of CARDEL RENOS

BY SARA DUCK

business profiles

the renovation process

in every issue

42

spring inspiration feature 37 Enhance your enjoyment of your outdoor space

BY HEATHER RYAN

42 Doggone it! Time to dogscape the yard

BY JACKIE SWARTZ

44 Rejuvenating your landscape

BY BONNY DANN

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2

Renovations that Inspire

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EDITOR’SNOTEBOOK

APRIL/MAY 2014 VOLUME 12 ISSUE 02 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

Bianca DiPietro MANAGING EDITOR

Sara Duck

MEDIA CONSULTANT

Kitchen Confidential...

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

I knew when we moved into our first home that our kitchen was having a major identity crisis. It was stuck in the 1960s and in serious need of modern updating. But, alas, like most first time homeowners, we didn’t have a lot of disposable income to spend on a complete kitchen renovation. The brown linoleum floors, yellow appliances and speckled green counter tops continued to plague my dreams and seriously stifle my inner domestic goddess – until I just couldn’t handle the tackiness any longer. So, my husband and I brainstormed and came up with a plan.

We decided that we would update the kitchen on a very limited budget, handling all the work ourselves and with the help of handy family and friends. The bonus of updating a kitchen on a budget is that it allows us to use a functional kitchen in the interim, while we save for the kitchen of our dreams complete with professional renovators.

Is your kitchen or bathroom in need of some serious TLC? Well, you’ve come to the right place! This issue is all about inspiring and empowering you to take on that kitchen or bathroom renovation, and we have fabulous expert information to guide you, starting with our cover story on page 11.

With the warmer months approaching, it’s time to think about creating a personalized backyard oasis. Don’t miss our Spring Inspiration section on page 35 – filled with great ideas and tips.

If you’re embarking on a reno or just looking to spruce up your space for the new season, we hope you take time to enjoy our latest issue.

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

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

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Bala Gnanapandithan PRODUCTION CO-ORDINATOR/ GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Mohammad Haidarpour GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Mike Terentiev CONTRIBUTORS

Heather Ryan, Mickey Foulds, Adene Lucas, Laura Le, Bonny Dann Escapes Inc., Vanessa Gash, Hellen Buttigieg, Michael Nyikes, Shell Busey, Yanic Simard, Bryan Tuckey Home Décor and Renovations magazine is published six times a year. Home Décor and Renovations magazine is distributed throughout Calgary and Greater Calgary area. This publication has been designed for the renovation market as a guide. Home Décor and Renovations magazine carefully inspects all ads for accuracy, however, the publisher and the printer shall not be responsible for any mistakes, design errors or incorrect information which is provided by the advertiser or their representative.

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

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

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

HOME DÉCOR AND RENOVATIONS 2891 Sunridge Way NE Calgary, AB T1Y 7K7 T 403.461.5518

Published By

4

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APR - MAY 2014

VOLUME 12 ISSUE 2

FREE

CALGARY EDITION

Cardel Renos done right NEW TRENDS FOR

Providing superior craftsmanship in Calgary and area for over 25 years Complete Custom Home Builds, Kitchen & Bathroom Renovations, Basement Developments, Entertainment Rooms, Additions and so much more!

23C 666 Goddard Ave NE, Calgary, AB T2K 5X3 • (403) 730-0104 •

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KITCHENS & BATHROOMS

Marie-Claire Williams and Clare Gardner, Sales & Design Consultants, CARDEL RENOVATIONS

PLUS

GETTING READY FOR SPRING!

TO ADVERTISE CALL

403.461.5518

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COVERSTORY

New trends for

kitchens AND bathrooms

by HEATHER RYAN

WHEN IT COMES TO RENOVATIONS, TOPPING MOST HOMEOWNERS’ WISH

lists is the desire to create kitchens and bathrooms that are both show-stopping and functional.

In the past few years the trend in kitchens has been the crisp, cool modern style, but that’s now changing says Marie-Claire Williams, design and sales consultant with Cardel Renovations, which uses its innovative designs to create stunning kitchens, bathrooms and more in homes throughout the Calgary area.

“A lot of kitchens we’re seeing now, and what we forecasted last year as an emerging trend, are the ‘raw’ kitchens,” says Williams. “There is definitely a shift away from the sleek, minimalist kitchen that had glossy lacquered cabinets and cool finishes to those that have character and a more natural feel.

“There is also a trend toward more old-world European influenced elements such as concrete countertops, floating shelves, exposed beams on the ceilings and barn board accents,” she says.

The move toward the “raw” undertone is a “much more livable trend and I like it because it presents a more timeless style,” Williams says. “A kitchen renovation is often costly so the last thing you want to do is have a style that

There is also a trend toward more old-world European influenced elements such as concrete countertops, floating shelves, exposed beams on the ceilings and barn board accents APR - MAY 2014 HOME DÉCOR AND RENOVATIONS 11

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As for colours, rose gold is in for 2014. “For the past few years we’ve been seeing more stainless steel, and cooler toned metallics, but now we’re moving into warmer tones.” you’re going to hate in three years’ time. You want something that is functional, stylish and works perfectly for your lifestyle.”

Since Alberta often trends more toward a Prairie palette the “raw” or natural kitchen works for most homes as it’s quite versatile, she adds.

As for colours, rose gold is in for 2014. “For the past few years we’ve been seeing more stainless steel, and cooler toned metallics, but now we’re moving into warmer tones.”

As for white in the kitchen, Williams adds, “we’re definitely still seeing white kitchens, but people are going for softer off whites as opposed to a bright white,” she says.

“We’re also moving away from chrome fixtures and sinks, and seeing a more European influence with farm house sinks; and brass is back in a more brushed finish, which can look incredible.”

The key to great design is often in the little details. So don’t forget about your door pulls that can be easily swapped out for little cost while 12

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allowing you the opportunity to be current with today’s trend. “For pulls, a lot of people are adding a vintage flair to their existing kitchen so they can be trendy without breaking the bank.”

Adding one-of-a-kind pieces can add not only to the overall look, but be a conversation piece as well. For instance, Williams has a robin’s egg blue mixer on her counter; “I don’t even use it but it looks amazing,” she says with a laugh.

With appliances, again the trend is shifting away from minimalism and going for more industrial or commercial grade appliances such as 48-in. gas ranges and fridges; people are definitely going bigger.

“The oversized stainless steel appliances add that gourmet, industrial feel but the kitchens are warmed by the woods, golds and softer tones – so you get this feminine/masculine mix – it’s definitely not your cookie-cutter kitchen and people are really able to let their personality shine through with this new design trend,” Williams says.

In bathrooms, the trend for 2014 “continues to be the hotel chic style, as people want to create a spa-like feel in their bathrooms.”

Free-standing tubs are growing in popularity, she says. “When they first came onto the scene they were very expensive, but now they’re more affordable so anyone can add that wow factor to their bathroom.”

Free-standing tubs are growing in popularity, she says. “When they first came onto the scene they were very expensive, but now they’re more affordable so anyone can add that wow factor to their bathroom.”

Bathroom designs continue to have a more feminine feel with colour trends leaning toward French greys and softer muted hues, which “work well when you bring in a bright white free standing tub into the mix.”

Marble is a popular choice, such as Bianco Carrera, for the backsplash, floor and shower – “it makes for a soft, pretty backdrop that pairs well with colours.”

APR - MAY 2014 HOME DÉCOR AND RENOVATIONS 13

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RENO-C

One of the greatest benefits about using a company like Cardel Renovations is they have professional designers on staff to help guide you through your choices and trends and give you tips to create the kitchen and bathroom of your dreams.

Vintage touches for pulls and fixtures are also on trend for the bathroom, and interestingly the parquet hardwood floor that is inspired by European design is finding its way into the bathroom and making a splash “as it looks absolutely stunning.

This European influence on design is the trend from kitchens to bathrooms in 2014.”

For lighting, many homeowners are adding their own personal touch with chandeliers or rustic wrought iron pieces hung over free standing tubs and there is more use of wall scones.

“People are really having more fun with their lighting because it can showcase their personality and the type of lighting you

choose can give a room the exact feel you want.

Bathrooms are not unlike fashion, they’re your opportunity to add the jewelry to complete the outfit by choosing the perfect lights, pulls and fixtures, so my advice is to pay attention to (and even spend a little more on) the details.”

Williams also recommends that if you’re mixing and matching styles and trends to follow the 70/30 rule. “So for the bathroom, you can make it 70 per cent feminine with a softer backdrop and 30 per cent vintage or rustic. You always want one style that is more dominant than the other for a more balanced look. Believe it or not if you’re 50/50, your eye doesn’t know where to look so the room seems off-balance.”

One of the greatest benefits about using a company like Cardel Renovations is they have professional designers on staff to help guide you through your choices and trends and give you tips to create the kitchen and bathroom of your dreams.

If you’re planning a kitchen, bathroom, or any home renovation this year, visit www.cardelhomes.com.

14 HOME DÉCOR AND RENOVATIONS APR - MAY 2014

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BUSINESSPROFILE

GIENOW RENOVATIONS

Gienow Renovations

BY PLY GEM JUST GOT BETTER

by HEATHER RYAN

A

company known for designing, manufacturing and installing beautiful, high-quality windows and doors has just got even better.

Gienow Windows & Doors has merged with Ply Gem providing an opportunity for customers to enjoy not just window and door installations, but complete exterior projects through Gienow Renovations by Ply Gem. “Ply Gem is a great company; they’ve been around for 70 years and have a similar culture to Gienow’s except that they are much larger and have a much broader range of product available,” says Dallas Paquette, director of retail operations for Gienow Renovations by Ply Gem. The merger is a great fit as “it takes all our strengths and links it up to all of Ply Gem’s, so you have two companies with long histories and experience working together, and we get to expand our product portfolio to better meet our customers’ needs,” he says.

“We now have the opportunity to offer a broad assortment of products to our customers for their home exteriors all in one place.”

So along with windows and doors, you can turn to Gienow Renovations by Ply Gem to do your siding, soffit, fascia, eaves and more.

“We also see a trend toward people being more aware of styles for their home’s exterior,” Paquette says. “One of the exciting things about joining with Ply Gem is we can now offer a designed exterior. So, for example, if a customer wants a Cape Cod-inspired exterior, we can co-ordinate all the elements.”

Customers are invited to visit Ply Gem’s Designed Exterior Studio visualizer tool at plygem.ca where they can check out different styles, colours and products to discover a look they want. Of course, the expert professionals at Gienow Renovations by Ply Gem also meet with customers in their home to discuss their project, provide advice on design and give a free estimate.

Along with the expanded product line, a major benefit to clients using Gienow Renovations by Ply Gem is its one-stop service.

“We handle the entire job from designing and manufacturing of the product to installing and providing a warranty,” Paquette says. “When doing a renovation with us customers don’t have to deal with going through a separate contractor, supplier and manufacturer; it’s all us. If homeowners have a question or concern they just have to make one phone call. Also, getting the product and installation directly from us is a big cost benefit to the customer.”

Further, homeowners can take comfort in knowing the renovator provides a 10-year warranty on the labour and a lifetime warranty on the product, and that they’re getting quality products that are energy efficient, safe and designed to improve their home’s appearance and comfort.

BEFORE

AFTER

BEFORE

AFTER

BEFORE

AFTER

To book a renovation project, or for more information on Gienow Renovations

by Ply Gem, visit gienow.com or call 403-203-8270.

Gienow Renovations by Ply Gem is also currently running a contest giving away a $25,000 window and door renovation package to one lucky winner. The contest runs until April 6; visit www.WinMyWindows.com for more information.

16 HOME DÉCOR AND RENOVATIONS APR - MAY 2014

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FEATURE

Renovating Cents

by ADENE LUCAS

ACCORDING TO A RECENT POLL FROM ONE OF THE CANADIAN design

magazines, more than 30% of Canadians who renovate spend more than they planned. I am surprised that figure isn’t much higher. Perhaps those polled were not being completely honest or worse yet, lost control of their project and budget somewhere along the way. The number one complaint about renovations is that they go over budget. That’s not shocking as renovations have a way of snowballing and the budget grows as the scope of work does. Consider these points as a guideline to staying on track with your renovation project.

18 HOME DÉCOR AND RENOVATIONS APR - MAY 2014

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Set a budget of course, but how? Do your research as far as materials go and price everything out first with a few back up options. For example, if the granite you love is $150 a square foot it may be wise to get another sample that is $75 a square foot so when you get the final quote for your dream kitchen, you can scale back on certain materials if it simply isn’t in the budget. That applies to cabinetry, flooring, tile, sinks and the like. Generally, when I am working with clients, I provide three options so that there is choice in price as well as quality. It is a bit more work but it helps to have options on hand and understand exactly what you are paying for.

To determine a budget, ask friends and family, who are either in the industry, or who have gone through a renovation.

Learn from their experiences, good and bad, and get a rough idea of what costs are involved. If they spent $50,000 on an ensuite bathroom, then your $75,000 renovation of a powder room sounds a bit steep in comparison. A good rule of thumb for expenses is to spend twenty to thirty percent of your home’s market value to guarantee a safe return on your investment. That being stated, the real estate market has been crazy for the last decade and investing a bit more can lead to a greater return when the time comes to sell.

Conversely, if you spend too much and price your home out of the market or select trendy finishes, you could be sitting on your property for a long time and carrying the costs while you wait for your home to sell. I’ve seen homes with exquisite finishes, beautiful craftsmanship and attention to detail that don’t sell because the home is too unique and does not appeal to the masses. What you get back on your investment depends on many variables, such as the value of your home, your neighborhood and the market itself.

If the renovation is for resale and to update the current look, keep in mind the tried and true not the trendy. If you don’t know what the current look is, check the merchandise in the local stores. The big sellers are typically readily available because the store can move the product or ask the sales person what their top sellers are. Creating a budget based on a line of credit against your home is not a good practice.

It seems like a lot of money, the sky’s the limit, resulting in poor choices. Think of a funnel - there are lots of choices and expenses and it’s up to you to narrow it down to where you are comfortable.

TO DETERMINE A BUDGET, ASK FRIENDS AND FAMILY, WHO ARE EITHER IN THE INDUSTRY, OR WHO HAVE GONE THROUGH A RENOVATION. LEARN FROM THEIR EXPERIENCES, GOOD AND BAD, AND GET A ROUGH IDEA OF WHAT COSTS ARE INVOLVED.

APR - MAY 2014 HOME DÉCOR AND RENOVATIONS 19

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Now that you know what you want to spend on materials, you need to meet with three licensed, bonded and insured contractors to get a detailed quote in writing. The bigger the project the more likely it is to go over budget so have your expectations clearly outlined from the beginning. Discuss budget, time frame, discounts, pricing, warranties and guarantees. Get a detailed breakdown on the scope of work and ask questions. Don’t assume that the contractor cleans up daily or that there is no smoking on site or that the trades don’t blast music throughout the day. Everything you expect should be in writing. The contractor is interviewing you as a potential client as well to see if it is going to be a good working relationship. This is the time to set the bar and if the contractor is evasive or low balls the quote it’s a sign the project could go off the tracks. Of course there will always be unforeseen issues that crop up while renovating and those things cost time which costs money. Set aside twenty percent of your budget to accommodate these unexpected problems.

Homeowners either want to update the look of their home to enjoy it or sell it.

Whatever the reason, consider these few touches that add the most value.

KITCHEN - It is the heart of the home, the center of entertaining and family

gatherings. A kitchen can also make or break the sale of a home. Try changing out the lighting, the handles, the colour of the walls or if need be a full renovation.

BASED ON SQUARE FOOTAGE THE BATHROOM IS ONE OF THE MOST EXPENSIVE ROOMS TO UPDATE BECAUSE THE SPACE IS SMALL, YET THE COSTS OF THE FINISHES ARE HIGH.

BATHROOM – It is one of the most used spaces and shows age and wear and tear like no other room. Based on square footage the bathroom is one of the most expensive rooms to update because the space is small, yet the costs of the finishes are high. It is also a very safe investment as you can recoup 75% of your investment if the update is done well.

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Want a

PAINT- We all know a fresh coat of paint can go a long way

new kitchen? on a budget?

to update a home and create a fresh, appealing look. A poorly done job or an awful colour has the reverse effect.

Choose wisely when it comes to paint and hire a professional to do the job.

FLOORING - It can really date a home especially if it is done

in a trendy color or there are too many types. Snagged carpet, worn out treads on the stairs and curled up linoleum are never a good look. Try to have consistent flooring throughout so that the transitions are seamless and the home feels wide open.

PLUMBING FIXTURES - They are always evolving and high end finishes like brushed nickel or oil rubbed bronze are a nice touch in any bath or kitchen. Newer fixtures can also save money in the long run, with low flow aerators and hands free washing. Not to mention that low flow showerheads, tank less water heaters and low flow toilets, help the environment by using less water.

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IT IS MUCH MORE COST EFFECTIVE TO CREATE A PLAN TOGETHER BEFORE THE WORK BEGINS THAN TO FIX THE MISTAKES AFTER.

If you still are not sure about where and what to spend money on for a home renovation, hire a professional who knows. It is much more cost effective to create a plan together before the work begins than to fix the mistakes after.

“ ADENE LUCAS www.accentondesigninc.ca | 403.651.7491

FOR A COMPLIMENTARY IN-HOME CONSULTATION CONTACT US TODAY

kurmakbuilders.com 403.277.5525

Transform Your House Into The Home You Desire.

22 HOME DÉCOR AND RENOVATIONS APR - MAY 2014

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Home Boss Inc.

HOME BOSS INC.

BUSINESSPROFILE

FOCUSES ON QUALITY RENOVATIONS

by HEATHER RYAN

S

ince 1995 journeyman carpenter Mitch Blair has been crafting high quality renovations that people love so much they trust him with all their projects.

“Almost all of my clients are repeat clients because they know I focus on quality not quantity,” says the owner of Home Boss Inc. “Our clients demand the best quality and craftsmanship and we take pride in our skill and attention to detail”.

“We’re a small company so we really look after our clients,” Blair says. “I’m a working contractor, which means I’m on the jobsite every day doing carpentry and finishing work and supervising the trades so that gives me more control over the quality of the work and ensures the project runs smoothly, on time and on budget.”

The renovator also makes sure the jobsite is “super clean so when clients come home at the end of the day they’ll feel it’s cleaner than when they left; they won’t feel like they’re living in a renovation mess.”

Blair is known for his honesty and giving clients a fair price.

“I’m not out to take advantage of people; I don’t have overhead so I’m able to provide a fair and competitive price.”

“I also believe in not only doing a good job, but a client’s satisfaction– that’s what’s most important,” he says. For almost

Licensed | Insured | Warranty Journeyman Carpenter with 20 years of experience

20 years in the industry he has never had a complaint and that’s why he attracts so many repeat customers and referrals.

Home Boss focuses on crafting highend kitchens, bathrooms, basements, custom cabinets and built-ins and additions Mitch and his team have been working very hard since June’s flood recrafting some of the worst damaged homes giving the owners a feeling of new beginning. An example is a basement development in Elbow Park that was completely redone including a custom yoga room “that turned out great.”

Another recent project was a kitchen update with extending existing cabinets to the ceiling giving it trendy look.

BEFORE

AFTER

When planning your next renovation project, visit homeboss.ca or call 403-888-4881.

Contact us at: Phone: 403-888-4881 E-Mail: homeboss@shaw.ca Or check us out at: www.homeboss.ca

Home Boss specializes in custom renovations and new home builds.

• Kitchens • Basements • Bathrooms

Interior design by: ANA Interiors

Luxury Living Solutions.

• Additions • Specialized Design Proposal

www.homeboss.ca APR - MAY 2014 HOME DÉCOR AND RENOVATIONS 23

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BUSINESSPROFILE

ENHANCE YOUR HOME

Enhance Your Home

SIMPLIFIES THE RENOVATION PROCESS

by HEATHER RYAN

H

omeowners can enhance the beauty of their home and make the old look new again by choosing a renovator that provides exceptional service, quality and pricing.

That’s what customers find when choosing Enhance Your Home Renovations, which was started in 2007 by home builder and designer Randy Kaminsky who wanted to focus his 30-plus years of experience on providing customers with the service they deserve from quote to completion.

Kaminsky’s goal is also shared by partner Wayne Prothmann, who has 20 years of construction experience and oversees worksites and a professional, highly skilled group of tradespeople, ensuring quality in the craftsmanship.

To further enhance its service to clients, Enhance Your Home Renovations has simplified and streamlined the renovation process by opening a store-front showroom in Lake Bonavista’s Promenade Mall.

“Our showroom design centre really provides customers with a one-stop shop,” Kaminsky says. “They can come in, discuss ideas for their reno project and see all our selections under one roof.”

The showroom has a wide range of products on display and the finishings are colour coded so people can clearly see the vast amount of standard items included in their quote.

Kaminsky says this ensures transparency and “allows us to provide a fixed price. When we give our customers a quote they know exactly what they’re getting because they know what’s standard so there are no surprises half-way through the job. We pride ourselves in being on time and on budget.”

As an added benefit, Enhance Your Home buys directly from distributors, cutting out the middle-man, and passes

this cost-saving onto its customers.

Having the showroom also helps to speed up the renovation process. “Often the most difficult part about a renovation is making the selections for interior finishings,” Kaminsky says. “Running around the city to several different stores to make selections is time consuming because it can take months and it can be confusing remembering choices and co-ordinating colours.

“We’ve eliminated that by having all the selections in one place and handling all our customer selection orders ourselves, which helps prevent errors. Selections are done in days rather than months, so the renovation can start sooner.”

For example, a recent project Enhance Your Home Renovations completed was to a home in Shawnessey, which was entirely updated. “It had outdated ’90’s oak and brass finishings and the client hated their kitchen. Through the design process we created their dream kitchen that they are now in love with. We also renovated the bathrooms and modernized the remainder of the home,” he says. “With this project, they had their selections picked in a week; we ordered the materials, started the job the following month and were done three months later.”

Enhance Your Home’s exceptional service results in happy customers and many referrals. “Clients rave about the showroom, the ease of selections and the quality of workmanship.”

Drop by Enhance Your Home Renovations showroom to discuss all your renovation needs and see their product displays, or visit online at enhanceyourhome.ca.

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BEFORE

Can you ma ke our kitch en more liveab le & lovable ?

Enhancing homes

lives!

yo ur

Renovations

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Calgary’s exciting home improvement & design magazine Expert design advice for FREE Featuring the newest and hottest design trends for your home, inside and out FREE

APR - MAY 2014 VOLUME 12 ISSUE 2

CALGARY EDITION

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TIPSANDTRICKS

Spend p vs.

Save

Just bought a new home and on a tight budget? Don’t fret! With expert advice from Toronto-based interior stylist Paul Semkuley, we show you where to spend and save your precious pennies for each room in your house.

by SARA DUCK

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BEDROOM SPEND Mattress & Box Spring Approx $1,500 - $3,000 Although it is the least glamourous item to buy for the bedroom, it is the most important. A good mattress will make all the difference in getting your beauty sleep each night. “The mattress should last you at least 10 years,” says interior stylist Paul Semkuley. “Especially when you purchase it with the coordinating box spring – as it absorbs

up to 50 per cent of the body’s impact.” Semkuley also suggests getting comfy and cosy in store by laying on it like you would normally sleep, to see if the mattress is a right fit. Whether you prefer a mattress that is firm, made of organic material or one that comes with a pillow top for extra comfort, buy the best one you can afford.

SAVE

1

3

2

4

1. Emmie Spets Sheet Set in White. $45. VISIT IKEA.CA 2. Seagrass Block Headboard. $200-$390. VISIT PIER1.Ca 3. Table Lamp. $70. VISIT BOUCLAIR.COM 4. Hemnes Three Drawer

Pssst!

TIP Don’t try to save money by using an old foundation or box spring with your new mattress. A mattress paired with its new box spring work together for all around better support, and keeps the mattress in shape longer.

FACT A study conducted in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, UK, Germany and Japan found that a comfortable sleep surface and cosy sheets and bedding were rated the most important romantic elements in all six countries.

Chest in Gray-Brown. $150. VISIT IKEA.CA

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BATHROOM SPEND Vanity & Countertop Approx $2,500 - $4,000 You may think this is an odd pick to invest your money in, but the vanity is a key item for the bathroom. Don’t forget you will be using the vanity every day, multiple times, opening and closing doors and exposing it to moisture. “The most important need of the vanity must be function,” says Semkuley. “Spending more on cabinetry that is made of solid wood will last much longer in a “wet” environment, than those made of a pressed wood compound.”

SAVE

1

Pssst!

2

3

TIP Buy a vanity that is proportioned to your space. You may have room for a big vanity but little room for anything else.

FACT In 1890, the Scott Paper Company manufactured toilet paper on a roll, much as we know it today.

4

1. Heritage Aged Iron Chandelier by Hampton Bay. $99. VISIT HOMEDEPOT.CA 2. The Beverly Mirror by Tangerine Mirror Co. $80.

3. Fiona Bath Towels in Coral. $14. VISIT BEDBATHANDBEYOND.CA 4. Simply Fine Lenox Chirp Bath Ensemble. $50.

VISIT HOMEDEPOT.CA

VISIT BEDBATHANDBEYOND.CA

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KITCHEN SPEND Free-Standing Range Approx $2,000-$5,000 Appliance shopping can be daunting – especially when you are deciding on a big purchase such as a free-standing range (hot plate on top, oven underneath). But this important appliance will make your cooking life easier if you spend a little more on a quality piece that is tailored to your needs.

“Having a gourmet range will make a huge statement in your kitchen. It will definitely add value to your home while you live there and especially if you plan to sell your home,” says Semkuley.

1

SAVE

2

Pssst!

TIP There are plenty of options out there when it comes to your range, such as gas, electric and induction.

Determine which type of fuel you will use based on what you have available and your personal cooking preference.

FACT A study conducted by Visa Canada suggests 60 per cent of Canadians eat out once or more a week.

3

4

1. Bodum Chambord Four Cup French Press with Locking Lid. $50. VISIT THEBAY.COM 2. Royal Doulton Gordon Ramsay Maze White Dinnerware. $100 FOR 16-PIECE. VISIT BEDBATHANDBEYOND.CA 3. Hamilton Beach 1.7L Dome Electric Kettle, $60. VISIT THEBAY.COM 4. Gourmet Settings Non-Stop Flatware. $50 FOR 20-PIECE. VISIT BEDBATHANDBEYOND.CA

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LIVING ROOM SPEND Sofa Appro $3,500-$5,000 The living room is the main hub of any home. It’s where you will do most of your entertaining and it’s the place you will go to snuggle and watch movies together. It’s important then, that you invest in a sofa that not only looks good, but is comfortable, durable and functional for your space.

Paying a little extra now, means a sofa that will last through the years. “When you have great bones in a sofa, you can always reupholster it, knowing that you will have the comfort that you have enjoyed for so many years,” says Semkuley.

1

SAVE 2

3

Pssst!

TIP When sofa shopping, look for a sturdy frame, one that does not wobble or creak but sits squarely on the floor. Also, pay attention to fabric detail – you want a fabric that will wear well for every day use.

FACT According to BBM Canada, the average Canadian adult watches 30 hours of television a week.

4

1. Bendale Rug. $134 FOR 5 X7. VISIT RONA.CA 2. Floor Lamp. $140. VISIT BOUCLAIR.COM 3. Box Frame Coffee Table in Mango Wood. $429. VISIT WESTELM.COM 4. Sequined Striped Pillow. $49. VISIT CHAPTERS.INDIGO.CA

PAUL SEMKULEY Toronto-based interior stylist is the Principal of Re:Source Lifestyles – he combines his love of art, fashion and design to offer a unique styling and design firm.

Visit resourcelifestyles.com

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SUPPLY INSTALL SERVICES

Exterior Renovations Specialists

W ✓ Windows & Doors ✓ Siding/Soffit

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✓ Free Estimates S.I.S. is a preferred installer of James Hardie siding products in Calgary and area!

Taking care of all your exterior renovation needs!

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Show room address: 3517 64th Ave. S.E., Calgary

23

rd

4

2010

All these things can produce carbon monoxide in your home

Protect your family from carbon monoxide • • • • •

Have fuel-burning appliances inspected annually by a qualified technician Clear snow, ice and debris from vents and chimneys Install and maintain a carbon monoxide detector Don’t idle vehicles inside attached garages Open a window near a wood-burning fireplace

Visit atcogas.com for more information

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ROCK SOLID RENOVATIONS

BUSINESSPROFILE

CUSTOM IS THE STANDARD FOR

ROCK SOLID RENOVATIONS

by HEATHER RYAN

W

ith 50-plus years in the industry Shawn Wehring and Dan Bryanton, owners of Rock Solid Renovations, have honed the renovation experience into an art form where custom has become the standard for their customers.

“We’ve put together a team of certified, professional trades and long-term employees who have worked hand-in-hand for the past 10-plus years creating a well oiled, renovation team,” Bryanton says. “Whether you know exactly what you want or you just know what you have isn’t working any longer we won’t rest until your renovation dream becomes a reality.

“Some customers have difficulty visualizing their project, but we take the time to listen to them, understand their needs and give them advice based on our years of experience; we also provide drawings so they can see what the project will look like” he says.

Using their extensive experience Bryanton and Wehring can tackle any size renovation project and both are journeyman carpenters so they’re on the worksite everyday, often working the tools, but also supervising their team to ensure exceptional quality for their clients and that the project remains on schedule and budget.

“CUSTOM

IS OUR STANDARD”

They also work hard to minimize the impact of the renovation project. “From the first steps of demolition to the last finishing touches we pride ourselves on cleanliness,” Wehring says. “With the utmost respect for our client’s space we make sure their comfort comes first during our time in their home.”

It’s because of this outstanding customer service and craftsmanship that most of their customers are repeat and referrals. “We have a lot of customers who had us do a kitchen reno then call us the next year to do a bathroom and the two years later we do their basement,” Wehring says, which is what they crafted for a home by the Cottonwood Golf Course. “They liked the first job we did so much they kept calling us back.” A recent referral project was in McKenzie Towne where they upgraded an outdated kitchen into a chef’s dream.

To make your renovation dreams come true, visit rocksolidrenovations.ca.

SHAWN 403-483-4452 DAN 403-813-8497 www.rocksolidrenovations.ca APR - MAY 2014 HOME DÉCOR AND RENOVATIONS 33

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

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*This renovation pkg. Excludes hail claims, existing orders and cannot be combined with any other specials.

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I

SPRING

Inspiration APRIL - MAY 2014

TIME TO DOGSCAPE THE YARD

enhance your enjoyment OF YOUR OUTDOOR SPACE PHOTO COURTESY OF HML CONSTRUCTION

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TIPSANDTRICKS

Defending your concrete against Calgary’s weather.

AS CALGARIANS, WE LIVE IN A COLD CLIMATE. Annually we

go through a number of freeze-thaw cycles. Combining that with deicing chemicals can be very damaging to your concrete pad.

Freezing causes the water in the capillaries of the concrete to expand, creating pressure. Over time, the expansive pressure from repeated cycles of freezing and thawing can break away the top surface of the concrete, leaving marks and exposing the coarse aggregate.

The best offense truly is a great defense. You can dramatically reduce water-induced spalling by applying a penetrating waterproofing sealer every few years. Hard Rock Developments carries one of Calgary’s only penetrating sealer and it has proven to be the easiest sealer for a homeowner to apply themselves. SureCrete SureSeal HS-Series is a premium, high performance, single component acrylic solids sealer. Its high performance characteristics include proved adhesion, UV protection, waterproofing and durability. SureSeal has

advanced nano sealer technology offering a number of attributes but the key ability that makes this sealer the best on the market is its ability to shrink the size of the pores in the concrete surface. Doing so slows moisture migration and in most cases eliminates efflorescence.

Even the best concrete has its imperfections in the form of cracks, discoloration, pop outs, and other flaws. While repairing concrete can help fix some of these flaws, the repairs themselves can be noticeable and unattractive. It’s no wonder that many homeowners think their only recourse for improving the look of unsightly concrete is to rip it out and replace it. But if the concrete is in perfectly good condition otherwise, you have an economical alternative by giving the surface a complete facelift with a decorative concrete overlay. SureCrete SureBroom and SureSeal HS-Series Sealers are the perfect economical alternative for a complete facelift and ideal for Calgary weather.

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SPRINGINSPIRATION

ENHANCE YOUR ENJOYMENT OF

your outdoor space

by HEATHER RYAN

WITH SPRING AROUND THE CORNER MANY HOMEOWNERS ARE TURNING THEIR ATTENTION to ideas and renovations that will allow them to get more enjoyment out of

their outdoor space this year.

One of the best ways to extend your outdoor space is by adding Phantom Screens to your covered deck or patio.

“We often tell people that when thinking about an outdoor renovation project they should consider their deck and how much use they’re getting out of it,” says Ron Belt, Southern Alberta’s distributor for Phantom Screens. “By installing power screens you can maximize your enjoyment of the outdoors - not only do the screens protect from mosquitoes and other pests, they also block harsh wind and glare from the sun.

Executive screens can be fully integrated & don’t detract from the aesthetics of your outdoor space!

Photo supplied by Phantom Screens.

Open up your living space! Motorized and retractable, our Executive Screens create comfortable and versatile outdoor space at the touch of a button. Photo supplied by Phantom Screens

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SPRINGINSPIRATION

Flagstone slate patio with water fall running along the side, natural stone steps through the water feature to the patio area, fire pit with natural stone seating, soft landscaping and plants to provide year round colour. Photos courtesy of HML Construction

“I can barbecue behind my screens in Chinook winds, without the screens the wind would be constantly blowing out the flame,” Belt says.

“When the screens are down you can sit outside and socialize with family and friends – you won’t be chased back inside because it’s too windy and the bugs can’t bother you.”

“Having a gas heater installed on your patio allows you to enjoy the outdoors into the evenings and in the early spring and fall.” He adds, “The screens contain the heat and really allow you to extend your summer.”

If you don’t have a covered deck, Belt suggests homeowners consider doing that as a renovation project this spring and they can add screens that range up to 25-ft. wide and 16-ft. in height in a single unit and are operated by wireless remote control.

“The screens are there when you want them and out of sight when they are not in use. If we are involved early on in a project we can even recess rollers into the soffit and inlay our tracks before masonry, so that everything blends in seamlessly,” he says.

“Guys who have man caves in their garage can even have screens that will cover the garage doors so they let in the fresh air, but keep bugs and wind out.”

All of the screens are customized with nine different colours of hardware to choose from and they can be custom coloured including a wood grain finish.

When thinking of your outdoors it’s also a good time to start planning for how you want to utilize the space and HML Construction is already

HOMEOWNERS CAN MAKE THE MOST OUT OF THEIR BACK YARD

BY CREATING THEIR OWN OASIS Natural stone, low maintenance water feature with cedar deck constructed over the water. Finished with soft landscaping and shrubs.

Photos courtesy of HML Construction

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Dry stacked natural stone retaining walls with planting pockets, feature lighting and natural stone steps to the upper level. Photos courtesy of HML Construction

PEOPLE ARE GOING BEYOND THE OUTDOOR DINING TABLE SET; THEY WANT TO CREATE OUTDOOR LIVING SPACES AND MORE SOCIAL SETTINGS

Hillsboro All Weather Wicker Living, photo courtesy of Wicker Land Patio.

working with a number of clients to make their landscaping projects a reality, says co-owner Casey Beckhuson. “It makes sense to get a plan in place now so work can be done earlier, which gives you time to enjoy it.”

And HML, an award winner at both Calgary and Edmonton home and garden shows, can handle any size and type of landscaping job from doing large excavations and creating retaining walls and rock gardens, to building decks, fences, patios and more.

“Homeowners can make the most out of their back yard by creating their own oasis,” says co-owner Mark Beck. “Rather than going camping or to the cottage, you can have a vacation in your own yard,” by adding elements such as outdoor kitchens, water features, fire pits, fireplaces, and lots of trees.

“People really like the natural water feature such as rock bubblers, where the water bubbles come out from the top of rock, and having different tiers and different drops so the feature has a Rocky Mountain look to it,” Beck says.

“Large stone fire places and wood-burning pizza ovens are popular additions,” says Jason Bennett, co-owner and director of operationsCalgary. “People are also breaking up their outdoor spaces to create different areas so they’ll have a dining table on the deck and an outdoor living room on the patio.”

As well, clients are looking beyond the simple yard and deck, says co-owner and project manager/estimator Mik Lussier. “They want more full outdoor renovation projects that include the front yard with a walkway that leads from the front to the back and a patio below the deck with a fire pit or fire place.”

There are a number of great new products available this spring including a banas stone – a natural stone that is cut into a tile – which creates less of a gap between the stones providing a more uniformed surface that looks great on the patio.

Along with your landscaping, don’t forget about your outdoor furniture and accessories. Jennifer Schramm, sales and marketing manager at Wicker Land Patio, says their customers “tell us they want to extend their space so they can enjoy the outdoor lifestyle more. They have a beautiful space indoors for entertaining and people want to extend that same look and feel outside and that’s what they get when they shop with us.

“People are going beyond the outdoor dining table set; they want to create outdoor living spaces and more social settings,” she says, by adding living room style all-weather furniture such as sofas, chairs, tables and sectionals to their decks and patios essentially allowing them to make the Bondi Beach All Weather Wicker Living, photo courtesy of Wicker Land Patio.

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SPRINGINSPIRATION most use out of their back yard space.

While people still want the dining table and chairs, “more people are going for comfortable outdoor living rooms,” she says. “Also lighter frame colours are making an appearance this year such as drift wood, taupe and grey; we’re seeing it on a variety of furniture such as on dining sets, sofas and love seats.

“And a lot of our customers are substituting the coffee table with a fire table. Propane or natural gas fire tables add extra warmth and they look great, too.

Fire tables are very popular and there are some great new designs available this year and we can customize everything.”

Along with their outdoor furniture, people are enhancing the look outdoors with accessories, such as allweather rugs, floor and table lamps, fountains and string lights.

A new product line this year is giant lighted trees made of an all-weather resin material. “They’re amazing and they come in all sizes from small to extra large – there is even a 12-ft. palm tree available,” Schramm says. The trees offer different coloured lights and there are different styles of trees available such as maple, palm and cherry.

“Having string lights and lighted trees can really add to the ambience of your outdoor living space,” she says.

Hillsboro All Weather Wicker Curved Sectional.

TRULY ENJOY YOUR PATIO

Quotes by Request

403-295-6455 info@phantomscreensab.com www.phantomscreens.com

Our Executive Screens are motorized and retractable – creating functional outdoor space at the touch of a button.

40 HOME DÉCOR AND RENOVATIONS APR - MAY 2014

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Wicker Land Patio

All All Weather Weather Resin Resin Wicker, Wicker, Wrought Wrought Iron Iron & & Cast Cast Aluminum Aluminum Patio Patio Furniture Furniture Fire Fire Tables Tables & & Accessories Accessories CALGARY SOUTH: 6125 Centre Street SW • 403-258-2506 CALGARY NORTH: 4625 Varsity Drive NW • 403-258-2809 HML HOME DECOR AD.pdf 1 14-03-11 10:02 AM KELOWNA: 2573 Highway 97 North • 250-862-2011

780.460.2088 EDMONTON AREA

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HML

403.228.2203 CALGARY AREA

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EDMONTON • CALGARY

Landscape Design • Stone Patios & Walkways • Retaining Walls • Cobblestone • Water Features • Fences • Concrete Decks & Pergola Structures • Irrigation • Maintenance • Snow Removal • Commercial & Residential Services

Patios

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SPRINGINSPIRATION

Doggone it!

TIME TO DOGSCAPE THE YARD

by JACKIE SWARTZ

DOGS AND THE OUTDOORS GO TOGETHER AS YOU WOULD EXPECT PEAS AND CARROTS. Why do dogs and yards not meld together? If these two are meant to be

together, why are so many yards and gardens exhibiting bold signs of disagreement?

Mud, ruined lawns, broken garden ornaments, uprooted plants, and dog waste everywhere. Even worse, our inquisitive pets can become extremely ill after swallowing toxic plants found in many yards. Here our innocent pets are simply enjoying the pleasures of exploring. So why does this disagreement between dog and yard exist?

Put simply, we are not designing pet friendly yards and gardens. Usually we design our outdoor space and do not remember that we must accommodate our animal companions and their basic needs into that design. I will help you design a pet-friendly, safe environment that is both beautiful and pleasurable for the whole family.

YOUR POOCH DESIGN SHOULD INCLUDE:

01. Site planning (organizational stage) and plant selection.

02. Running and patrolling paths.

03. Dealing with digging.

04. Potty area.

05. Avoidance of toxic plants and plants that are thorny, sharp and sappy.

06. Pest and weed control using a non-chemical approach to pest control.

07. Comfy mulching on top your garden beds.

08. Recycle home, garden and yard waste safely.

09. Raised garden beds.

10. Soothing water feature(s). You’ll have fresh water for your dog(s)....maybe a dog pond!

11. Protected deck, pooch shelter, and pet-friendly & safe outdoor lighting.

12. Fetching area.

13. Plants near running paths or trails should have soft foliage but sturdy enough to stand canine rough-housing.

Step one in creating a pooch design is learning to think like a dog. If you were a dog, what would you want? Every breed has a different personality. The better you can accommodate your dog’s needs, the happier he/she will be. And more importantly the less destructive he/she will be in the yard. Hence, the happier you make your dog, the better chance of maintaining a garden that you and your dog will enjoy for years to come.

When you are working on your site plan considerations must be made: size, breed, and gender of your dog. If you have a large breed dog like I have, you will need extra lawn space and longer patrolling paths. How many dogs in your family? Are there other

pets? Evaluate your dog(s) habits when addressing the design elements to create a sense of flow in the landscape. For ultimate safety, if you have a dog in your yard a fence is the basic requisite to your initial design plan. Appropriate fencing height must be considered so your dog cannot jump over and a predator such as a coyote cannot get in. And remember a big dog requires a tall fence.

I find that no matter the breed you select, all dogs have an innate drive to protect their family by patrolling the perimeter of the yard. A path about eighteen inches wide to three feet wide, depending on the size of your yard can be designed next to the fence. If you have large gardens in close proximity to the fence, you can also design pathways that go through the gardens so that they join with the perimeter patrolling pathway.

All dogs dig or have the capability to dig because it’s instinctive. Dogs dig for a multitude of reasons. The major reason that dogs dig; to create a cool and comfortable place, simply for entertainment, their passion for burying valued items, to hunt grounddwelling animals, to appease separation anxiety, and sometimes to find a way to escape. Leaving your pets favorite toys outside for them will keep them happy and stimulated while mitigating their separation anxiety. A good idea is to locate some of their favourite chew toys and hide some healthy treats rolled up in an old towel to excite them and feed their

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curiosity. Place these objects in a shady area to encourage them not to dig to stay cool and keep them busy.

Everyone wants their dog to do their business in a designated area. You might have to train your dog to do this. Almost every home has two sides to it. One side is normally used to get to the back yard and the other side is never used. This is a perfect area to make a potty area. Dogs like something comfortable and preferably private. I have used grass, imitation grass and small round pebbles. If the rock is not round it will have sharp edges which can cut the pads on the dogs’ paws. If your hose bib is in this area you can frequently wash it down to eliminate odors.

Here is a list of toxic plants that should be avoided in your design creation.

Some flowers that are toxic include: Bleeding heart, Foxglove, Iris, Larkspur, Lily-of-the-Valley, and Monkshood. A vegetable garden plant that is toxic is Rhubarb. Some shrubs and trees that are poisonous are Apples (Poisonous parts are the leaves and seeds), Bittersweet (poisonous parts are leaves, seeds, and roots), Buckthorn (poisonous parts are fruit and bark), Burning bush (poisonous parts are leaves, bark and fruit), Caragana (Poisonous part are the seeds) Daphne (All the parts are poisonous), Elder (All parts are poisonous, especially the berries), Hydrangea (All the parts are poisonous), Juniper (The berries are poisonous), Oak trees (Poisonous parts are the leaves and acorns) Ohio Buckeye, Horechestnut (All parts are poisonous, especially the fruit), Wild Cherries (All parts are poisonous and the pits in the fruit), Yew (All the parts are poisonous).

When it comes to pest and weed control there are organic methods and products that can remove weeds. Using the right garden tools and techniques will also help manage weeds. The bigger the weed gets the harder it is to get out.

Mulching with grass clippings, leaves and bark chips will help keep the weeds away.

Without adequate sunlight the plants do not produce enough chlorophyll to enable further growth.

Comfy mulching over top of soil will reduce the muddy paw prints on the kitchen floor. Large bark nuggets and small rounded rock are two great mulches to use. Small wood chips can leave splinters in between your pet’s paws. Using a rounded rock is safer and doesn’t have sharp edges to cut your dogs paws.

Composting is great, but is recommended to be in secure bins. Bins of recyclables should not be left unattended in a back yard. Dogs can tip these bins over and hurt themselves on sharp tin cans, lids, glass and plastic.

Raised gardens identify to dogs that these are prohibited areas to play in. Installing pathways around raised gardens shows the dog where he/she can walk and run. Water features including store bought fountains are great for ensuring that your pet always has enough fresh water to drink.

Shelter is very important, especially if your dog is being left outside in the elements.

A pergola over a deck can help with shade. A dog house is another great solution for shade and warmth. Outdoor dog heating pads are available for when it’s colder outside.

Outdoor lighting is beautiful and enhances the landscape. I recommend low voltage outdoor lighting. If you’re pet were to find a wire and chew it the main switch on the transformer box is triggered to shut down making the wire safe.

The size of your dog will state what size of a fetching area that you need. I have large sized German Shepherds and they love to run far and fetch their balls and bring them back to me. Actually, they like me to chase them around the yard. Having both large and tiny breeds has enabled me to assist others in designing an optimal space for their animal companions.

People, plants, and animals all go together beautifully. Our yards become a safe haven and a sanctuary for everyone with a little forethought in the initial design. We can accomplish this by addressing and incorporating their basic needs for safety and health when choosing plants. Designing the perfect dogscape will ensure meeting all the needs of our extended families... dogs and people. And save us time and expenses in renovating our yards later. Pre-planning for pets minimizes the natural wear and tear of our yards. Now we can celebrate the joyful companionship and play of our furry friends.

Paws up for designing a well thought out pet friendly garden and yard.

JACKIE SWARTZ Jackie Swartz has a Horticulture Degree from Olds College. She is a Professional Landscape Designer and Consultant. Jackie will do your design right at your home. Average design time is 2-4 hrs, remarkable, but true! To contact Jackie, you can call her at 403-472-5082 or email her at wildstrawberrygardens@gmail.com.

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HOMEANDGARDEN

Rejuvenating YOUR LANDSCAPE

by BONNY DANN / ESCAPES INC.

SURELY SPRING IS JUST AROUND THE CORNER AND ALL OF US WILL TURN our thoughts to the outdoors and outdoor living! For those of you in new homes it will signal the start of construction to create a new landscape, the sound of equipment and seemly slow progress at first as your grading is completed, soils brought in and bases prepared for hardscape. Once the hardscape is finished and you start to see finished projects it feels like everything speeds up as your trees and shrubs are planted, perennial beds and gardens completed and beautiful fresh sod is laid like icing on a birthday cake!

For those of us in older areas the process can be entirely different. Gardens or landscapes, like homes and our wardrobes, need updating or make overs! If you are in a very old or very overgrown landscape and you are fortunate enough to have the space to let equipment in that is the first step in a landscape make over.

Sometimes we have to remove the entire old landscape and start over just as we would on a new site, other times we can rejuvenate some of the existing soft and hardscape and only replace areas of it.

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WE TRY TO NOT REMOVE EXISTING TREES AND SHRUBS, INCLUDING ROSES, UNLESS ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY. THE MAIN REASON FOR REMOVING HEALTHY PLANT MATERIAL IS SIMPLY A TREE OR SHRUB IN THE WRONG PLACE. One of the problems with make overs, as opposed to new site development, is we need to deconstruct before we rebuild but most of the time home owners think the landscape looks better after we have just cleaned it up and prepped!

Another problem with landscape make overs, very much like home renovations, is you may run into issues you didn’t expect to. At least that has been my renovation experiences every time I think I will update some area of my home! With hardscape we often find the entire prep or bases were not constructed properly so rather than being able to repair only the uneven parts of your patio or the wall where it is starting to buckle, we need to lift or remove everything and start over by installing the proper depth of base materials. You may also find your hardscape materials are discontinued as the precast manufacturers are constantly coming out with not only newer and better products, but entirely different designs, colours, shapes and sizes - not any different than clothing designs or the newest model of your favourite vehicle.

Softscape, on the other hand, can be dealt with in several different ways.

If gardens are over run with selfseeding perennials, annuals or weeds my experience has been it is more time and hence cost effective to just clear the beds or borders completely of plant material and start over. We remove as much of the old soil as possible to eliminate the existing seeds in the soil from germinating then bring in a garden mix generous on the compost side and fill the beds before replanting. If the issues are just perennials that need to

be divided or replaced because now trees have matured or been removed and light conditions have changed we then try to work around any existing plant material that can be salvaged, either digging them up and replanting after the soil has been amended or working around them in well maintained beds that only need a top dressing of straight compost.

We try to not remove existing trees and shrubs, including Roses, unless absolutely necessary. The main reason for removing healthy plant material is simply a tree or shrub in the wrong place. The issues we see the most often are either trees and shrubs planted too close together at the time of landscaping and as they mature not having the space to grow and develop properly, or shade/sun loving plants in the wrong sunlight and hence failing to thrive.

Trees and shrubs that have never been pruned, yes we see that, or pruned improperly can sometimes be rejuvenated by proper pruning although it could take several years to achieve the desired shape and size. The easiest of these are the shrubs that can be pruned right back and will rebound looking like new plants in the same season, such as Lilacs. Other varieties, when allowed to become overgrown, die out in the centres or at the bottom and just cannot be salvaged.

Most coniferous trees and shrubs do not need to be pruned and often cannot be saved once pruned, for instance to fit somewhere they should never have been planted. If you are maintaining or planting your own gardens do your homework before either planting or pruning to avoid having to remove trees and shrubs.

Once the hardscape and beds or borders are made over and mulched all we need to do is replace the sod and your old landscape will look as good as or better than a newly landscaped lot!

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TRENDS2014

purple

PANTONE 19-3224 RADIANT ORCHID

REIGN HRH THE QUEEN OF ENGLAND LOVES HUNTER RAIN BOOTS!

Maxwell Dickson Purple Orchid Throw Pillow. $67.

VISIT OVERSTOCK.COM

Original Back Adjustable Rain Boots in Navy/Lipstick. $165.

VISIT CA.HUNTER-BOOT.COM

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

#stylereport

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

BY SARA DUCK

stoneware & handmade

POTTERY LOOK FOR A RETURN TO STONEWARE & HANDMADE POTTERY FOR A MORE NATURAL FEEL TO TABLEWARE.

Organics Stone Dinnerware by Lenox. $60 for four piece set.

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

48 HOME DÉCOR AND RENOVATIONS APR - MAY 2014

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floral & foliage PRINTS

FROM THE RUNWAY TO YOUR HOME, DRAMATIC FLORAL & FOLIAGE PRINTS ARE A BIG STATEMENT IN FASHION AND DECOR FOR 2014.

Botanical + Birch Wall Art – Stencil Leaf. $123.

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Hörja Lamp Shade. $20.

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natural wood ACCENTS NATURAL WOOD ACCENTS ARE ONE OF THE HOTTEST TRENDS IN HOME DECOR. INCORPORATING WOOD WILL BRING WARMTH AND TEXTURE TO YOUR SPACE.

CLASSIC

iron headboards WE ARE LOVING IRON HEADBOARDS, A NICE CHANGE FROM THE POPULAR FABRIC DESIGNS OF LATE.

Adrift Table Lamp. $149. VISIT URBANBARN.COM

Scroll Headboards in Black. $280 for Queen. VISIT PIER1.CA

Irish Coast Extension Table. $1,199. VISIT URBANBARN.COM

Black. $280 Rings Headboards in R1.CA for Queen. VISIT PIE

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FEATURE

KITCHEN & BATHROOM investment

by MICKEY FOULDS

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THE PROSPECT OF RENOVATING KITCHENS AND BATHROOMS IS ENOUGH TO ELICIT BIG SIGHS, FURROWED BROWS AND A LEVEL OF ANGST FOR MOST HOMEOWNERS. THE CHANGES ARE SIGNIFICANT AND PRETTY PERMANENT, AND THE COSTS ARE SIGNIFICANT. NOT TO MENTION THE VERY INCONVENIENT AND MESSY CONSTRUCTION PHASE THAT HAS TO BE TOLERATED IN THESE ESSENTIALLY FUNCTIONAL SPACES IN OUR HOMES.

SELECTING A NEW CHAIR FOR THE LIVING ROOM, a paint colour for

the master bedroom or a light fixture for the foyer – that’s easy! It is fun to explore all the options and then finally make the selection without too much stress.

However, the prospect of renovating kitchens and bathrooms is enough to elicit big sighs, furrowed brows and a level of angst for most homeowners. The changes are significant and pretty permanent, and the costs are significant. Not to mention the very inconvenient and messy construction phase that has to be tolerated in these essentially functional spaces in our homes.

I recently had an interesting experience which entailed viewing two townhouse condos in the same complex as potential investment properties. The floor plans differed somewhat, but they were comparable. Having been constructed at the same time all the initial finishes would have been the same, as were the exteriors.

I had high hopes of Condo A – the few online pictures showed gleaming hardwood and porcelain tile floors and the description indicated significant renovations and upgrades to the kitchen and bathrooms. The basement had also been developed.

Condo B was in its original condition, very clean and tidy, with lino & carpet flooring and an undeveloped basement. It looked pleasant enough, but with Condo A listed at only $5000 more than Condo B from appearances it seemed like the winner was clear before the race even started!

I viewed condo A first, and entered with a spring in my step.

First impressions were “dirty & cluttered”. Having experience both in renovations and staging I have become immune to superficial issues and can quickly see the potential in sad or ugly APR - MAY 2014 HOME DÉCOR AND RENOVATIONS 51

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properties. However, the next horror was the hardwood floor. Laid in the wrong direction with inadequate support it had become a roller coaster. The hardwood had clearly dried out (either no humidifier or not acclimated to our uniquely dry climate) and there were large gaps. The cream laminate kitchen was the next design victim – the owners had decided to upgrade the countertop and backsplash with a very heavy slab of pink toned granite and a very textured and patterned concrete coloured tile. Visual weight was wrong, colours were very, very wrong and all the good intentions had turned into a liability. Similarly the bathrooms had been dealt a blow with new, poor quality cabinetry which was already showing significant water stains and the sheer size of which overwhelmed the space.

Vessel sinks and contemporary faucets were inconsistent with the style of the home and clearly selected to be “trendy”. Paint colours

“Creating fresh, beautiful spaces.”

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throughout were poorly chosen and turned a potentially light filled home into a dungeon.

Condo B was delightful. Sure, it was dated but everything was immaculate, clean and well maintained. Colours were light and bright and very neutral.

A perfect, livable property to purchase and then take your time to renovate at leisure.

I know this sounds like a bit of a rant, but I really want to emphasise strongly the economic consequences of poorly executed kitchen and bathroom renovations.

Condo A’s owners would have paid at least $10K on materials alone.

Labour costs would double that.

Whoever purchases the property would eventually need to rip out the changes if they ever wished to capitalise on their investment, because that is the bottom line for the majority of homeowners.

Your home is often the single largest investment you will make and it pays to be pragmatic about the changes you make. I have had a few clients who want their “dream” home uniquely tailored to their unusual lifestyle and are in a position to consciously compromise the liveability of their home.

However, the vast majority of us want to add value so that, when the time comes to sell, we have a great product to put on the market.

The place to start is to take a long hard look at your property and neighbourhood values in the context of your budget.

Sometimes it is not possible to change everything in one fell swoop and one needs to break it up into smaller projects spaced out for financial comfort.

First decide upon the overall intention. Next break it up into

YOUR HOME IS OFTEN THE SINGLE LARGEST INVESTMENT YOU WILL MAKE AND IT PAYS TO BE PRAGMATIC ABOUT THE CHANGES YOU MAKE.

stages and timelines. Investigate costs and get quotes. There is no harm in doing the renovation yourself provided you have the time and the skills. Anything that looks amateurish is a liability, so rather wait until you can get a professional to do a good job.

From a design perspective, get some solid advice and ideas.

There are many magazines and books with fabulous examples of beautifully executed spaces as well as websites like www.houzz.com with some great and inspiring pictures. Many homeowners have excellent taste and create beautiful design concepts – on occasion I have spent only a couple of hours hour with clients simply to give a quick once over and confirm their choices or to take it one step further enhancing what they have started, or advising them of resources, products or trends that may not have crossed their path. It’s all about planning the journey well and consistently.

Work with a specialised kitchen designer for your kitchen.

I heard from a colleague this morning about a property which

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was struggling to be sold. The new kitchen was a deal breaker as the homeowner had decided to forgo banks of drawers in the kitchen as a budget decision in spite of the designer’s strong recommendation. Yes, budgets do need to be respected but there are usually other areas that can be compromised.

So overall plan carefully, be pragmatic and do the best you can afford. Otherwise wait until you are able to do so.

Just a final update - Condo A is still on the market and will be for a while unless there is a drastic price reduction. Condo B, although a little dated, sold on the second day of listing.

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

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RENOMARK

THE SECRET TO A SUCCESSFUL RENOVATION STARTS WITH A PLAN – and planning needs to be done well in advance.

by BRYAN TUCKEY

WHEN IT COMES TO HOME RENOVATION, the first step is understanding what you want to achieve through your renovation.

This means having a clear focus on what must be included in your project, as well as any other features you would like to incorporate, if your budget allows. Coming up with a renovation plan as you walk through your home with a contractor is like going to the grocery store on an empty stomach – it’s a guaranteed way to exceed your budget, which will lead to difficulties down the road.

Once you’ve established a budget and settled on which areas of your home require the most attention, it’s time to start thinking about unexpected expenses. Renovation is an oftenmisunderstood process and some people tend to get caught up in the excitement of it all and miss a few things.

For example, major renovations such as conversions or additions may require you to seek the services of an architect or engineer. Not only will they help assist your renovator with executing his work exactly the way you want, their plans and drawings are often necessary to receive building permits or approvals.

Keep in mind that some renovations may require you to temporarily move out of your home for safety reasons, which in turn, can add up to more than you budgeted for. Be sure to establish a time frame with your renovator in advance so you’re not coming home to a construction site. While you’re at it, be courteous to your neighbours and inform them of the potential disturbance that your renovation may create for them. They will appreciate it!

You are now ready to select a renovator. I can’t stress enough the importance of using a professional for the job. While it is tempting to opt for the more modestly priced option commonly associated with a cash-only contractor, it is important to understand that in this industry, you get what you pay for.

A cash renovation will mean that no written contract has been established between you and the renovator, so if a disagreement or sub-standard work occurs, you will have no case should you choose to seek legal action. A detailed, written contract that outlines the entire scope of work, including any last-minute changes, is the first sign that you are working with a pro, and a vital aspect of the renovation process.

I always recommend hiring a contractor affiliated with the national RenoMark program. All RenoMark renovators have agreed

to a Code of Ethics set out by their local home builders’ association, as well as a renovation-specific Code of Conduct recognized by the CHBA. This code includes things like offering a minimum two-year warranty on all work, carrying a minimum of $2 million liability insurance and, most importantly, providing a detailed, written contract for all jobs.

A searchable database at renomark. ca allows visitors to quickly find professional renovators in their geographical area.

Make sure to lock up you contractor early. Work with a pro, check references and, most importantly, get it in writing!

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

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TIPSANDTRICKS

1

Crisp copper

trends AND transformations

by YANIC SIMARD PHOTOS BY BRANDON BARRE FOR AN INTERIOR DESIGNER, LIFE IS ALL

about looking for big inspirations. They can be found in any place, at any time of day, and can come from the grandest spaces or the smallest details. My recent travels to design destinations such as Paris, New York, London, Miami and Vancouver exposed me to many beautiful spaces. I’m always looking for ways to take what I discover and translate it for my clients.

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r

I never worry too much about following trends – I love to study them, but then translate the ideas into timeless statements. However, very often in design, one perfect new piece is all you need to completely change and update the look of a space.

So, to help get you feeling as inspired for 2014 as I am, here’s my list of 10 room-transforming ideas you’ll be sure to fall in love with this year.

1 CRISP COPPER After years of cool silver hues ruling the metal market, warm tones are returning to reclaim the throne. The must-have metal of the moment, however, isn’t classic gold, but copper in all forms: bronze, brass and the inviting reds of pure copper itself. A few copper accents (or one bold light fixture) adds immense depth to a colour palette despite functioning as a neutral.

GET THE LOOK Marvel at the handmade brass lights from Pavilion, or try the sparkling Crystal Bulb available through Klaus Nienkamper (available with an elegant copper pendant cord, or as a standalone cut crystal bulb you can use to add sparkle to an existing fixture).

2 PERFECT PERFORATIONS Perforated metal, especially in warm tones, will be popular this year, popping up in fashion and jewellery and now interior design. Applied to classic furnishing forms, the combination creates a sense of airy glamour that can completely revitalize a dull office nook or foyer.

GET THE LOOK Order a custom parsons console from Kelly Wearstler’s LA studio directly, or look to Zara Home for other perforated accents.

A total tr doesn’t h sometim of one d object ca impact. L material focal poi cabin atm space.

3 ANTIQUED MIRROR Grand mirrors have long been used to open spaces visually, but aren’t always a true feature themselves. The recent renewed love for aged finishes in design has lead to the rise of antique (or antique-d) mirrors, with grey tints and imperfections adding character that steals even more attention than what’s being reflected.

GET THE LOOK Order the Arteriors Annabelle standing screen from boutiques such as L’Atelier, or visit Zilli Home to see their current stock of wallhung pieces.

4 WARM WOOD A total transformation doesn’t have to be expensive. Sometimes, using a few copies of one deceptively simple object can create the biggest impact. Let this ageless material of wood become a focal point, adding an inviting cabin atmosphere to your space.

GET THE LOOK Beaver Canoe’s wooden stools at Target (affordable even in multiples). Use several clustered together to form a coffee table, and break them apart when a few extra guests arrive.

3

Antiqued mirror

4

Warm wood

2

Perfect perforations

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BUG LIFE For the keen trend followers, insect prints of all kinds are a quirky 2014 motif. Go gentle with a colourful butterfly print, or let a bug or beetle keep you company.

5

Woven wonders

Drinking glasses from Avenue Road.

5 WOVEN WONDERS Weaving of string, cord and even straw, popular in worldly safari-inspired looks, is showing up in modern forms lately.

Try this material for an oversized pendant lamp to add rich texture in a simple but eye-catching silhouette.

GET THE LOOK Bailey Pendant (above) from Made Goods, available at L’Atelier.

“Monarch Fire” rug from Avenue Road.

Christian Lacroix butterfly print pillow from Bentley Flanders.

6 ELECTRIFYING LIGHTS When looking for ways to add a new layer of lighting to a space, why not consider letting light itself be the artwork?

Vintage style signage, hung in contrast to luxe furnishings (or leaning against a wall), gives a lounge or den a cosmopolitan air, a conversation-starting objet d’art, and a whole new glow.

GET THE LOOK Ask boutiques such as Love the Design about their latest finds, or simply have a sign maker create a piece to your exact whims.

7 MASCULINE CHARACTER Although designers often use tricks and techniques to make rooms appear larger and lighter, sometimes spaces cry out for rich, comforting materials such as dark woods and warm leathers, in rugged forms. Mix a masculine classic such as a Mid-Century Modern lounge chair into your living room, den or even bedroom for instant Mad Men appeal – the look is trendy, but timeless.

GET THE LOOK Browse vintage shops like Decorum (in person or online at 1stdibs.com). The sumptuous, leather, vintage Mies chairs adds a perfect anchor of gentlemanly heritage to any space.

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#2065-20 DARK ROYAL BLUE

COLOUR CONFIDENCE

#OC-26 SILVER SATIN

For 2014, more and more people are embracing colour in a big way. Expect to see eclectic mixes of bright hues, dark, moody walls and especially painted doors. For an instant makeover, leave your trim as is and paint just the door itself (or a few) to give any room a new architectural feature. Here’s my 2014 key colour forecast with paints from Benjamin Moore:

8 DRAMATIC PLASTIC Although moulded plastic in interior design has been a staple since the 1960s, lately it’s seen a huge resurgence, especially when colourful or transparent, and mixed with more traditional materials (such as wood or stone) for playful contrast. Try switching to airy plastic chairs in your dining room, for a whole new eclectic vibe.

GET THE LOOK Kartell’s Masters chair (a combination of three classic chair silhouettes) in this years must-have shade of sage green, available through online stores like allmodern.com. Add clear plastic shelves or accessories for an even trendier punch of colour.

#HC-128 CLEARSPRING GREEN

#2121-10 GRAY

#2022-30 BRIGHT YELLOW

GET THE LOOK Give a room instant classical detail with Regal

Wallcoverings Chateau Panel wallpaper, or create a library from thin air with papers from Tracy Kendall (tracykendall.com).

For more ideas to keep you inspired throughout 2014, you can always read my Keep Up With Yanic blog on tidg.ca, like me on Facebook or follow me @yanicsimard on Twitter.

9 BOLD SEAMS For decades, a battle has raged between two schools of seating thought: comfortable vs. stylish. Many cool new seats are achieving the best of both worlds, featuring tight, angular seams to create a modern silhouette while still giving you somewhere to truly relax.

GET THE LOOK The La Mise sofa from Italinteriors, in a trendy but classic royal blue, can add a pop of colour to subdued spaces or act as a near-neutral in an already eclectic mix.

10 ARCHITECTURAL TOUCHES Any trip to Paris will leave you awed by the grand mouldings, lavish libraries and rich heritage details that dress the famous city, but I found hotel La Maison Champs Elysees especially inspiring: their use of trompe l’oeil papers to enrich more architecturally minimal rooms is chic, clever and memorable.

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

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

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FEATURE

What is your

DESIGN STYLE?

by LAURA LE WHETHER YOU ARE LOOKING TO RENOVATE YOUR EXISTING HOME or

purchase a different property it is important to identify exactly what each space in your home needs to be used for. Perhaps you need a den for a home office or a bonus room away from the main part of the house so the children can have free reign. Identifying the needs of your family is paramount to being happy with the decisions made. A great exercise in discovering just what each person in the household deems a priority is individually compiling a list of wants and needs.

Then, getting together and comparing notes without judgment. This allows everyone to be part of the decision whatever that is‌ staying where you are and going through the renovation process or starting fresh in a new property.

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WE’RE NOT THAT GUY!

Whatever your decision is the next crucial step is determining the design direction. Do you tend to like more modern or contemporary design or is craftsman more to your liking. This is a very popular design aesthetic here in Calgary also known as arts and crafts style and is available in both original, period construction as well as brand new. Transitional design is perhaps the most common and "easiest to assimilate a family’s wants and needs into one package." Looking at magazines and various websites such as Houzz will assist in determining style preferences.

It can be beneficial to hire a design professional to assist in this entire process to ensure the result is cohesive.

Most designers/decorators are available on an hourly basis and many questions can be answered during a one or two hour consult; especially if your questions are organized and prepared before the meeting. I have seen and worked on many houses in which most of the design is fabulous but the lighting selections are completely wrong or the choice of backsplash tile does not necessarily complement the countertop. The cost of hiring a professional for a few hours can be much less than the cost of repairing or replacing the less than ideal selections.

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Now the renovation is complete or the move has been made and your furniture may not be as fantastic as it was before. Keeping the entire design in line is a step by step process that does not have to be done in a day. It is important to work with the furniture pieces you would like to keep and replace only the ones that are no longer desirable. As with the previous process, designers may be hired to assist with these selections so no huge mistakes are made with very, very large sofas or reclining chairs. I have a client that calls me when she has extra money available and she sends me shopping. She is not interested in being there because she does not like nor does she have time for shopping, she just wants her house to be beautiful. We have been working together for several years and her home is lovely!

The most important thing to remember when deciding anything about design is budget and functionality. Every choice must be appropriate for how you live and what you like. Do not try to make your home look like a magazine layout because they are not usually real. Furniture, accessories and artwork are brought in by designers to make each photograph perfect. Live surrounded by people and things you love!

IT CAN BE BENEFICIAL TO HIRE A DESIGN PROFESSIONAL TO ASSIST IN THIS ENTIRE PROCESS TO ENSURE THE RESULT IS COHESIVE.

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 62 HOME DÉCOR AND RENOVATIONS APR - MAY 2014

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brad@lakeviewfloors.ca I www.lakeviewfloors.ca • Hardwood • Tile • Cork • Bamboo • Carpet • Laminate • LVT • Congoleum • Dura Ceramic APR - MAY 2014 HOME DÉCOR AND RENOVATIONS 63

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TIPSANDTRICKS

KITCHEN and BATHROOM RENOVATIONS

by VANESSA GASH

INTERIOR RENOVATIONS ARE FREQUENTLY USED to bring

updated appearances to older spaces. Kitchens and bathrooms are common areas that may be upgraded. Often the extent of these changes are considered maintenance and do not require permits. As you begin planning your renovation, it is important to determine your scope of work and what permits, drawings and additional information may be required. Here is some information that you may want to consider during the planning stage.

Cosmetic changes like painting, wall coverings, flooring and cabinets are all considered general building maintenance.

Replacement of toilets tubs and sinks in existing locations are considered plumbing maintenance and may also be conducted without a plumbing permit. In the kitchen, replacement of appliances is also considered maintenance as long as you do not modify existing electrical locations. You will be amazed at the transformation that can be achieved by incorporating these types of changes.

Renovation projects come in all shapes and sizes. It is important to know at which point you will require building and trade permits to conduct your work. Typically building, relocating, moving or removing of any walls within your home will require a building permit. When loadbearing walls are involved, such as removal of interior walls to achieve an open concept floor plan, consultation with a structural engineer is recommended. Depending on the scope of your project your engineer will provide a letter and/or drawings stamped with their professional seal. These documents must be submitted with your permit application.

The following items deserve consideration as you evaluate options and purchase new products. The Alberta Building Code requires exhaust fans in both bathrooms and kitchens.

If you do not currently have an exhaust fan in these areas you will be required to add them. Always be sure to ask questions when purchasing new products as there may be implications to your project. For example, new microwaves with over range exhaust fans may require interlock with your furnace depending on the unit you chose. Additionally, new gas appliances may have specific clearances listed in the manufacturer’s literature that are specific to those units and in

addition to those listed in the Alberta Building Code. Another consideration with bathroom renovations is whether your existing hot water tank capacity will support your new changes and additions. Even if you are not adding new fixtures, a larger size tank could be warranted if additional people are taking baths and showers at peak times.

Most renovations will require electrical and plumbing trade permits in addition to building permits. New outlets, fixtures or changes to electrical wiring require an electrical permit.

Moving plumbing fixtures to new locations or installing ones where none previously existed require a plumbing permit.

Homeowner’s wishing to do their own electrical or plumbing who meet the requirements may apply for homeowner permits. If you do not qualify or do not wish to do this portion of the work, you will require a registered contractor to apply for permits and conduct the work. Additionally, any plumbing projects that incorporate gas lines must be carried by a licensed contractor under their own permit.

As you embark on any renovation project it is important to research and investigate your options prior to building. More information about permit requirements is available online at calgary.ca. If you are unable to find answers to your specific questions, assistance is available by calling (403) 268-5311.

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

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

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Published by

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TIPSANDTRICKS

Decoding the code

by MICHAEL NYIKES

ponents are being retro-fitted to pre-existing ones in a renovation project. Therefore the line is blurred between what can be covered by warranty and its difficult to assess who assumes liability for what. Even given substantial renovations such as adding a second storey a bungalow home, it is challenging to effectively warranty because the new addition may be relying on existing furnace systems, plumbing lines, basement foundations, main floor framing, etc.

However, it should be noted that a number of well established and reputable renovation companies have been voluntarily offering warranty protection on their work to their customers for quite a few years. These companies specifically list what is and is not covered by their warranty based on the scope of the project, and receive third party credibility and coverage by partnering with warranty providers such as:

Q

Does the recently announced mandatory new home warranty protection act include renovation projects?

A

As of February 1, 2014 Alberta has the most stringent new home warranty protection legislation in the country.

Every new home built in the province is now protected under warranty, thanks to Alberta’s New Home Buyer Protection Act which can be viewed at http://homewarranty.alberta.ca.

New home construction (single detached family homes/ duplexes/multi-family homes/condominiums/manufactured homes/recreational properties) include, at minimum, a warranty for: • One year labour and materials (workmanship and products); • Two years for defects in labour and materials related to delivery and distribution systems (heating, plumbing, electrical, etc); • Five years building envelope protection (physical components of the outer shell such as foundation, roof, walls, doors, windows, etc), with a requirement for the warranty provider to offer the consumer the option to purchase additional years of coverage; and, • 10 years coverage for major structural components (structurally significant components of the building such as foundation, roof, walls, interior beams, teleposts, etc).

• National Home Warranty Group Inc http://nationalhomewarranty.com • Blanket Home Warranty Ltd - http://blankethomewarranty.ca • Progressive Home Warranty Solutions Inc http://progwar.com/progressivewarranty • The Alberta New Home Warranty Program http://anhwp.com • Travellers Insurance Company of Canada http://travelerscanada.ca/new-home-warranty The bar has been raised even further by renovation companies that are qualified through the RenoMark program http://renomark.ca where provided a minimum 2 year warranty is a pre-requisite for members.

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

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

Renovations are not included in this recently announced legislation mainly because new products, systems and com66 HOME DÉCOR AND RENOVATIONS APR - MAY 2014

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TIPSANDTRICKS

SHELL BUSEY: ASK A PRO

Conserving

Energy Resources

by SHELL BUSEY

YOU CAN REDUCE YOUR IMPACT ON THE ENVIRONMENT by reducing energy usage in the home. Energy efficiency upgrades decrease greenhouse gas and other air emissions creating healthier communities.

INSTALL A PROGRAMMABLE THERMOSTAT TO REDUCE HOME HEATING AT NIGHT.

HERE ARE A FEW SIMPLE CHANGES YOU CAN MAKE TO USE RESOURCES MORE EFFICIENTLY:

Reduce drafts and heat loss from your doors, windows and attic with weather stripping. In older home drafts can account for 30-40 per cent of total heat loss. Seal electrical outlets and switches on outside walls with foam gaskets.

Install a programmable thermostat to reduce home heating at night. For every 1°C (2°F) you lower your thermostat, you save 2 per cent on your heating bill. A reduction of 3°C (5°F) at night and when you are away during the day provides optimal savings.

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USE MORE EFFICIENT LIGHT BULBS.

Install a ceiling fan - change the direction of the fan to pull warm air up in the winter. This allows the ceiling and walls to be washed with warm air. This is a benefit to houses with electric baseboards or high cathedral ceilings.

Keep your furnace well maintained and change or clean furnace filters every couple of months. Dirty air filters block airflow and can damage the heat exchanger When purchasing furnaces, air conditioners, heat pumps, windows, doors, and major appliances, look for the ENERGY STAR® symbol.

Upgrade insulation in walls, basement and attic. Insulating your basement walls and attic can reduce your energy bill by as much as 30%.

Take a quick shower instead of a bath. A five-minute shower uses up to 50% less hot water than a bath. Avoid running the tap continually while shaving, brushing your teeth or doing dishes.

Capture and save rainwater for your garden. A cistern or a rain barrel will capture and store rainwater for irrigation. Make sure your barrel is covered with a tight-fitting lid or screen to keep disease-carrying mosquitoes from breeding. Water your garden or lawn early in the morning to reduce losses due to evaporation. More than half of the water applied to lawns and gardens can be lost due to evaporation or run-off from over-watering.

Wash and rinse laundry in cold water using cold water detergent. Washing in warm rather than hot water uses 50% less energy. Avoid over-drying clothes.

Clothes should dry in 40 to 60 minutes. Better yet, hang clothes outdoors to dry when the weather permits. If you are buying a new dryer, look for one with a moisture sensor. It will turn off automatically when clothes are dry.

Lighting - Install automatic timers and you won’t have to remember to turn your outdoor lights on in the evening and off during the day. Installing a timer can cut your outdoor lighting energy use by up to half. Try motion detectors that switch on and off automatically.

Use more efficient light bulbs. By replacing standard bulbs in your home with ENERGY Star® - qualified compact fluorescent light bulbs, you can significantly reduce the energy used to light your home.

For more home improvement information or to send Shell an email go to www.AskShell.com and become a member of Shell’s HouseSmart club.

A FIVE-MINUTE SHOWER USES UP TO 50% LESS HOT WATER THAN A BATH.

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

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Make no compromises‌

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

(403) 277-5600 www.trademarkrenovations.com

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

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