GTA Home Decor and Renovations - MAR 2015

FREE

MARCH 2015 VOLUME 11 ISSUE 1

homedecorandrenovations.com

Q&A with

celebrity designer JONATHAN ADLER

2015’s

freshest DECOR TRENDS

MAKE YOUR

reno re no dreams A REALITY! WE HAVE EXPERT ADVICE AND DRAMATIC PHOTOS TO INSPIRE YOU

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EST. 1994 Located in Yorkville district at 137 Avenue Road, Coco Lezzone has a fantastic menu, modern and stunning decor and a killer martini bar. Additionally, we now have a stone pizza oven to present arguably the best Italian pizza in the city.

We have take-out options for those nights you just want to relax at home.

We have a private dining options for families, friends and corporate meetings who require extra privacy.

You’re going to love our new look! Come visit us and experience the new Coco Lezzone.

Monday to Sunday: 4:00pm - 2:00am

137 avenue road, toronto

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lunch hours starting March 1st Mon to Fri: 12:00pm - 3:00pm

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416.975.1717

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www.cocolezzone.com

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Luxurious handcrafted detail in the finest crystal designs.

In a myriad of colours, effects, shapes and sizes.

On sale now at Royal Lighting

ROYAL LIGHTING 1549 Avenue Rd. (North of Lawrence)

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416-782-1129 royallighting.com

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Contractor You Can Count On!

We work with GTA homeowners that are tired of their outdated kitchens, bathrooms and living areas but have to minimize the disruptions and inconvenience of remodeling.

Our clients value our quality workmanship and doing what we say we will do.

DESIGN • BUILD • RENOVATE

416.452.5259 www.sosna.ca 4

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Dream it! Find it! Love it!

SHELTER

SHELTERFURNITURE.CA 885 CALEDONIA RD TORONTO 416 783-3333 MON-SAT 10-6 SUN 12-5 5

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contents

VOLUME 11 ISSUE 01

MARCH 2015

Cover Story

A lesson in design

32 Cover photo by

GILLIAN JACKSON

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25

26

In every issue

8 Editor’s Notebook 10 Contributors HD&R features

15 The Scoop

26 Style File

18 Trending

36 Expert Advice

Catch up on decor and reno news, inspiration, style and more 2015 shopping wish list

25 Designer Q&A It’s a colourful life

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Maximizing your space with a basement renovation

How to renovate like an HGTV star

38 RenoMark

The renovation industry creates jobs

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EDITOR’SNOTEBOOK

What’s your

2015 renovation resolution?

ARE YOU DETERMINED TO MAKE THAT DREAM RENOVATION A REALITY IN 2015?

You’ve come to the right place! Here at HD&R we are starting off the year by giving you great advice and inspiring pictures to help kick-start the renovation process.

Does our cover image have you longing for a kitchen up-date? Designer Yanic Simard takes us through a beautiful renovation featuring a classic light grey kitchen with modern accents on page 32.

KEEP YOUR HOME LIGHT AND AIRY WITH SHADES OF WHITE AND LIGHT GREY, ACCENTED WITH POPS OF COLOUR.

Speaking of renovations, anyone who has been through the process knows how much it can twist and turn your life upside down for a period of time. Of course, the end result makes it all worthwhile, but wouldn’t it be nice to know the in’s and out’s of what to expect before the process starts? Who better to turn to than designer, contractor and HGTV star Rob Evans? He provides 11 expert tips that will get you reno-ready.

PG.

26

With spring just around the corner (hooray!) we are excited to deliver the latest trends in decor. You may have already noticed that it’s a really interesting time in design. From 1970s influences to Scandi-style and seasonal favourites such as stripes and floral, there really is something for everyone. The last thing you want, though, is a house full of trends. A couple timely, well-chosen pieces that flow with your home’s look is all you need to keep your space from looking dated. Check out our shopping wish list on page 18.

We hope you enjoy the issue!

SARA DUCK EXECUTIVE EDITOR, WALL2WALL MEDIA sara.duck@wall2wallmedia.com

MY 2015

reno wish list

RED ESIG N AND REN O MY SEC OND BAT HRO OM, WHI CH ALS O INCL UDE S LAU NDR Y FAC ILIT IES AND A FUR NAC E

PG.

32

Follow me on twitter: twitter.com/saraduckHDR Like us on Facebook (Search: Home and Decor magazine)

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

Check out our site: homedecorandrenovations.com

ADD A MOD ERN FIRE PLA CE TO MY LIVI NG ROO M

8 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS MARCH 2015

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STYLE

•

GRACE

•

QUALITY

For a lot less than you’d expect.

Mississauga 1825 Dundas St. E. [905] 629-7060

Toronto 35 Arrow Rd. [416] 743-1530

Scarborough 1355 Kennedy Rd. [416] 751-9853

Brampton 258 Queen St. E. [905] 456-1046 9

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OURINSIDERS

President, Wall2Wall Media

Jacqueline Hill Editor-In-Chief / Director of Content

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

Susan Legge Director of Sales, National

Josh Heppner Sales Manager, Home Decor and Renovations Condo Guide and GTA New Homes

Conni Robinson Art Director

Daiana Garay Executive Editor

Sara Duck Contributing Editors/Writers

Wayne Karl

Media Consultant

Amanda Bell

amanda.bell@wall2wallmedia.com

Yanic Simard

Sales Co-Ordinator

DESIGNER

antoinette.jackson@wall2wallmedia.com

Yanic Simard is the Principal Designer of the Award-Winning Toronto Interior Design Group (tidg.ca), and regular guest expert on the number one Canadian talk show City’s Cityline. Check out Yanic’s accessory line Yanic Simard Selected at ysselected.com

Antoinette Jackson

Production Manager

Bala Gnanapandithan Graphic Designers

Viosa Barileva Victoria Cigan Hannah Yarkony Production Co-Ordinator

Greg Van Sluytman

Jo Alcorn DESIGNER Jo Alcorn is a celebrity designer specializing in small spaces and design solutions for all budgets. She is the interior expert on HGTV’s new show Critical Listing, and shares her expertise regularly on TV and through her monthly column at the Toronto Sun. whitewashco.ca

ADVERTISING Call 416.626.4200 for advertising rates and information.

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

COPYRIGHT 2015 All

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

by Copyright and offenders will be prosecuted under the law.

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

E. & O. E.

Rob Evans DESIGNER, RENOVATOR AND HGTV STAR A specialist in renovating residential properties, Rob began his career as the owner and operator of a successful design firm which inform his creative and aesthetically adventurous style. His projects range from complete home rebuilds to furniture design and construction. Rob likes to get involved in every step of the construction process. One day he’ll be meeting with architects and structural engineers, the next securing building permits and digging out basements.

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

Published By

#500-401 The West Mall Etobicoke, ON M9C 5J5 T 416.626.4200 F 416.784.5867

Please recycle this magazine! Wall2Wall Media participates in the Partner’s In Growth Reforestation Program through St. Joseph Communications. To date, Partners in Growth has planted over two million trees in parks, recreation and conservation areas, and other public spaces across Canada. Established in 1990, this program was started with Scouts Canada to help replenish the environment.

10 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS MARCH 2015

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Custom Furnishings, Bedrooms, Dining Rooms, Sofas, Dinettes

CREATING CUSTOM MADE FURNITURE SINCE 1978

F U R N I T U R E

T. 416.636.5495 680 Rivermede Road. Vaughan Keele St., North of Highway #7 www.AltaModaFurniture.com Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/altamodafurniture

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@altamodafurn for Instagram

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ADVERTORIAL

How to select the perfect window treatment

IS OUTSIDE NOISE A PROBLEM? If your windows face a crowded street, sound can be a problem, especially at night. It’s good to know that fabric window fashions offer significant sound absorption to create a more serene setting inside.

A SHOPPER’S GUIDE TO THE ART OF WINDOW DRESSING

S Energy Wise

electing window fashions is often a complicated decorating decision as there are many practical considerations. Here, are the questions you need to ask, and better yet, the answers to perfect the art of window dressing from Sally Morse, director of creative services for leading window covering manufacturer Hunter Douglas.

IS PRIVACY A KEY FACTOR? A general rule of thumb is that if you can see out through closed window treatments during the day, others can see in at night. Look for window fashion innovations such as Silhouette window shadings, with the Signature S-Vane, from Hunter Douglas that offer a combination of sheer fabric to maintain a view of the outside and rotating fabric vanes for variable light control and privacy both during the day and into the night.

Up to 50% of a home’s heating and cooling energy is lost through its windows.

Manufacturer’s Rebate

100

$

With the ‘honeycomb-within-a-honeycomb’ construction and three insulating air pockets, Duette Architella honeycomb shades increase energy efficiency.

DO YOU HAVE TOO MUCH OR TOO LITTLE LIGHT ENTERING THE ROOM? Light is a great natural resource that can be altered to suit your needs. Window fashions with rotating vanes or louvers can be used to direct light where it’s needed most. Newer products like Pirouette window shadings feature adjustable vanes attached to a sheer fabric backing that actually draws softly diffused light deeper into the room. For media rooms and bedrooms, treatments that provide maximum ® room-darkening are a good choice.

Remember that while sunlight can beautifully illuminate a space, it also gives off heat and harmful UV rays. Products like Duette Architella honeycomb shades feature a patented honeycomb-within-a-honeycomb design that significantly reduces heat transfer at the window while providing superior UV protection.

Min.

WHAT ABOUT HARD-TO-REACH WINDOWS? For very large windows or those that are high up, motorized window fashions are a necessity.

They’re also great for dressing an entire wall of windows and in bedrooms where you can operate them without leaving the comfort of your bed. Hunter Douglas PowerRise2.0 with Platinum Technology easily integrates into most home automation systems.

There are so many advancements in window treatments, particularly from Hunter Douglas, that it is more true now than ever, you can have it all ® window. ® at the

G

Purchase three Duette Architella® honeycomb shades between January 1st and April 30th, 2013 and you’ll receive a $100 manufacturer’s rebate.

Also, purchase any number of additional Duette® Architella® More information is available online at www.hunterdouglas.ca.

Covering Dilemma? honeycomb shades and you’llWindow receive an extra $25 for each.

BOXING DAY BLOWOUT!

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CENTURIAN WINDOW FASHIONS

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(416) 489.9990 Only Silhouette shadings with the Only Silhouette shadings with the ™ ignature S-Vane create warm ™ create ignature S-Vane warm and and › The View Window Fashion Direct to the Trade Only. 6900 Airport Road, Mississauga inviting lightlike likenono other window inviting light other window (647) 668.2948 covering can.

(416) 998-9993 covering can.Call Calltoday! today!

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

• Free Initial Consultation • Exclusive discounts of up to 40% for our clients from some of the largest retailers including RONA, Olympia Tile & The Brick.

Call For A Free Estimate 416.759.4663

www.modular.ca

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2013 13

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E E R F D IPA

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Come visit Ontario’s largest bathroom vanity showroom.

Featuring Modern, Classic and Contemporary Styles

LUMBERLAND

HAS IT ALL

{

A UNIQUE EXPERIENCE IN HOME DECOR AND RENOVATION.

LUMBERLAND NORTH INC.

kitchen | tile | bath | ceramics | plumbing | stone | doors | trims | drywall | lumber 14

180 Bovaird Drive West • 905-792-2800 • www.lumberlandnorth.com

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NEWSETC.

the

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

by SARA DUCK

‘70s INSPIRED DECOR is a huge trend this season!

PEGGY SOFA. $1,199. VISIT WESTELM.COM

{SCOOP the LOOK! { Curva Floor Lamp. $329.

STRUCTUBE.COM

Abstract Art. $80.

HOMESENSE.CA

Stockholm Coffee Table in Walnut Vaneer. $300.

IKEA.CA MARCH 2015 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 15

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Family-owned company Bona is a world leader in environmentally friendly floor care. It provides a wide selection of premium quality cleaning products to maintain the natural beauty of wood floors. And we all know how challenging wood floors can be to take care of!

On our radar: BLACK AND WHITE

stripes

Bring a touch of Parisian-chic to your life with these black and white striped accessories!

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT MYBONAHOME.COM

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Bella Notte Fine Linens are now available at Maple Drapery King Design Studio.

MAPLEDRAPERY.COM

{PSSST! { Now located in the heart of Yorkville, Coco Lezzone is an Italian restaurant serving up fabulous fare in a very stylish atmosphere – we love its wood accent wall! The restaurant also offers bookings for corporate events.

COCOLEZZONE.COM

1. White Zinnia Striped Pillow. $59. CHAPTERS.INDIGO.CA 2. Striped Pitcher in White and Black. $30. CHAPTERS.INDIGO.CA 3. Eivor Throw. $35. IKEA.CA 4. Tuvbräcka Duvet Cover and Pillowcases.$35. IKEA.CA 5. Design Love Planner. $55.

THEDESIGNLOVECO.COM

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is lightweight, durable, StoneRox’s Thin Stone Veneer All products can be . ada versatile and made in Can exterior surface, or rior inte d soun any to applied seven styles and 12 With cial. residential and commer urs, your options colo ired insp e scap land n Canadia are endless!

STO NER OX.C A

Colour of the year:

Marsala PANTONE – world renowned colour experts– released its 2015 colour of the year, and it’s quite a different hue! Marsala, well-known for being a wine from Sicily has an earthy, rich, red-brown tone – look out as this warm shade makes its way into decor and fashion palettes this year.

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We went bananas over the new Boss Blender from Breville! It features a high velocity ProKinetix blade and bowl system that pulverizes virtually any combination of ingredients – creating up to 50 per cent smaller particles.

The result is a super fine texture that increases absorption of nutrients and creates an extra smooth finish.

2

$599. BREVILLE.CA

{PSSST! { Who doesn’t love a great deal on home accessories?

Linen Warehouse Outlet is a little hidden gem that offers housewares, bedding, bath accessories, designer brands and more all at 70 per cent off retail.

It’s worth the drive to South Etobicoke!

576 EVANS AVE. (BETWEEN HWY. 427 & THE EAST MALL) 416.259.9404

3 1. Kenmare Ikat Embroidered Pillow Cover. $80. POTTERYBARN.CA 2. Bialetti Red Moka Six-Cup Espresso Maker. $50. CRATEANDBARREL.CA 3. Generation Art Collection, The Path Mug. $7. EQ3.COM

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TRENDING

1

2

2015

SHOPPING

wish list

This season’s hottest trends are a real mash-up! You can see influences of the ‘70s, Scandinavian style and Mid-Century Modern mixed with tons of pattern and colour – it’s an interesting time in design! Here are 11 pieces currently on our wish list.

BY SARA DUCK

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1. Floral Print Anders Chair by Kate Spade Saturday. $719. westelm.com 2. SMEG Mixer in Pastel Blue. $550. westelm.com 3. Oslo Five-Piece Cutlery Set in Black. $75. chapters.indigo.ca 4. Underline Dinnerware. $5-$7. cb2.com 5. Paradigm Dining Table. $999. cb2.com 6. Eve Pendant. $249. crateandbarrel.ca 7. Sillerup Rug in Black and White. $149. ikea.ca 8. Graciosa Drum Accent Table in Brown. $170. pier1.ca 9. Canyon Vase. $60. cb2.com 10. Silk Bauble Pillow in Forest. $69. chapters.indigo.ca 1 1. Double-Sided Throw in Celery. $49. chapters.indigo.ca

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Proudly Made in Canada

Facing the Future

Canadian

made

Renovating or building your home should be fun and rewarding... StoneRox “faces the future” with inspiring and stunning thin stone products that will ignite your creativity!

StoneRox Thin Stone Veneer products are light-weight, durable, versatile and Canadian-Made, resulting in the conservation of our precious resources. All of the products can be applied to any sound interior or exterior surface, whether residential or commercial. Seven unique and distinctive styles are based on the complexities of natural stone, and the twelve beautiful colours are all Canadian landscape inspired. With the ability to mix colours and styles, the combinations are literally endless!

StoneRox now distributes Natural Stone and Thin Clay Brick Veneer, offering even more versatility to the customer than ever before. Visit stonerox.ca to discover how you can face your future projects, or nd inspiration for that renovation you’ve been dreaming of!

beauty

Distinctive

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Facing the Future

416.798.7809 www.stonerox.ca

Proudly Made in Canada

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Relish in the Beautiful Designs

from Allan Rug

EVERY ROOM NEEDS PERSONALITY – the challenge is creating one that is compatible with your own. Should you design your room with bright colours to reflect a vibrant personality? Or, use neutral colours to deliver a more calming effect? And more importantly, how can you obtain this look without breaking the bank?

There is no need to pull out all the stops when instead you can make a simple change with just one accessory – a rug. Believe it or not, a quick rug swap can give your room the boost it needs. And regardless of the look you are going for, Allan Rug can give you the rug you need, at the price you want.

The family owned business has been providing a wide range of carpeting, area rugs and flooring of the utmost quality for more than 50 years. Whether you’re looking for something traditional with elaborate colours and designs, or something modern containing bold colours with geometric shapes, Allan Rug is never short of options. For those who have a specific look in mind, Allan Rug will allow you to pick and choose from a vast array of fabrics to create your own custom design. With the newly renovated 15,000 -sq.-ft. showroom and an experienced staff, you can choose from hundreds of rugs to enhance your decor and give your room a look

WE STRIVE FOR THE SATISFACTION OF OUR CUSTOMERS FROM THE MOMENT THEY WALK INTO OUR STORE UNTIL THE INSTALLATION IS COMPLETE you’ll love.

Allan Rug is recognized throughout the GTA for producing one-of-a-kind rugs and flooring. They provide their products to some of your favourite home improvement television shows including Property Brothers, Take this House and Sell it, and Love it or List it. According to Allan, owner of Allan Rug, “we strive for the satisfaction of our customers from the moment they walk into our store until the installation is complete. With a wide variety of styles and beautiful patterns, our staff can help with choosing the right rug to help create the perfect look.”

So go ahead and see for yourself! Consult the Allan Rug professionals and give your room the perfect look that’s right for you.

Visit allanrug.com, or call 416-787-1707

ADVERTORIAL 22 HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS MARCH 2015

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Allan Rug has been providing carpet, area rugs & flooring to the GTA’s top Designers, Architects, Builders and the public for over 50 years.

Visit our newly renovated 15,000 sq.ft. showroom in the Castlefield Design District for the latest styles in broadloom, area rugs, hardwood, cork, vinyl & other floor coverings.

103 Miranda Avenue • 416.787.1707 • www.allanrug.com 23

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ADVERTORIAL

Make your home beautiful with stone veneer from

CANYON STONE CANADA CANYON STONE CANADA OFFERS THE LARGEST SELECTION

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of lightweight natural and manufactured stone veneer, thin brick veneer and faux stone siding products through an ever expanding Canadian distribution network. Their quality products have been designed for both interior and exterior residential and commercial wall applications providing the consumer with a wide variety of products and price points for their projects.

The Natural Stone Veneer collection has been created by blending rock from local quarries. Each is carefully selected to produce an aesthetically pleasing assortment of colour, texture and shape. Choose Natural stone veneer, when only the “real” thing will do.

Manufactured stone veneers are hand-crafted and molded from natural stones which give the illusion that these are real stone. Why does a consumer choose this stone veneer over a natural product? Budget and a larger variety of colour options.

For contemporary or modern looks a Natural Ledge or Quartzite Ledge panel may be the stone veneer of choice.

These cut natural stone preassembled panels are easy to install and add texture and beauty to your project.

Brick Veneer continues to gain popularity in the residential and commercial interior decoration market. It has the authentic look of reclaimed brick installed on your wall without sacrificing more than an inch of floor space with amazing results.

The most recent addition to the product line is Polymer Stone Siding. As beautiful outside as inside, as traditional as it is contemporary, faux stone siding was designed to inspire a world of possibilities no matter what your style or vision.

ve·neer: noun \ve-’nir\ ➺ a thin layer of wood or other material that is attached to the surface of something in order to make it look better ➺ a protective or ornamental facing (as of brick or stone) ➺ a superficial or deceptively attractive appearance, display, or effect: façade Example of veneer: A wall with a stone veneer

These products are the easiest of all their products to install while still getting that look of stone.

Canyon Stone Canada’s products meet the demand of today’s consumers looking for a lightweight solution when adding stone to their project.

Visit CanyonStoneCanada.com to find a local dealer.

2015-02-09 5:28 PM

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IT’S A

colourful

DESIGNERQ&A

LIFE

by SARA DUCK photos by MAURA MCEVOY

Potter, designer and author Jonathan Adler is a designing powerhouse on a mission to shake up boring decor with his dazzling, colourful creations.

We caught up with this multi-talented designer who was recently in town for the Interior Design Show.

You seem to be a designing chameleon these days with your continued successful and diverse lines of pottery, furniture, home accessories, apparel and more. Where do you draw inspiration from?

J | Creativity is an audacious and magical undertaking, and I try not to think about it too much, but I always keep my mind and my eyes wide open.

Describe your design philosophy in three words.

J | Style, craft and joy.

You’re known and loved for your use of colour.

What are your favourite colour combinations?

J | Lemon yellow and blue is an “always” combination for me, and I’ll never say no to a dash of prep-tastic red, white and blue.

Describe your home’s aesthetic.

J | Shelter Island is where my husband Simon and I built our dream home. We wanted warm, rustic modernism. It’s a little California, a little Japanese and a little Swedish.

There are a lot of decorating/design rules out there.

What’s one that you think people should just totally ignore?

J | All of them. Don’t worry about rules: if you love it, it will work.

How can homeowners bring a “wow factor” to a room?

J | Start with a bold, graphic rug and you won’t look back.

What are some of your favourite decor stores to shop at?

J | Well, mine! But when I’m in Toronto, I like to pop into Artifacts and Elte.

What are some of your favourite pieces you’ve designed for 2015?

J | I’m having a love affair with our new modular Ultra Sectional.

It is glamour, glamour, glamour. And brass – anything brass. Our brass hand nutcracker is surreal – and chic – and will make you want to be constantly surround by a pile of walnuts needing to be de-shelled.

What’s a new trend you think people should embrace in the new year?

J | Mixing metals. Break your allegiance to just silver or gold and embrace metallic mixing.

In addition to being a successful author; a collaborator with companies such as Kravet, Starbucks and Lacoste, and creator of must-have home items, you’ve had great success as an interior designer. What’s next for you?

J | I just finished re-envisioning the Eau Palm Beach resort in Florida – all 309 guest rooms and corridors – and I’m launching a collection with Formica Laminate this spring. I’m a restless designer, so the more I make, the more I want to make. More stores, more products, more projects!

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STYLEFILE

MAXIMIZING YOUR SPACE

WITH A BASEMENT RENOVATION

by JO ALCORN photos by STACEY BRANDFORD

BASEMENTS ARE NOW CONSIDERED AN INTEGRAL PART OF THE HOME, or have the potential to be. They no longer have the stigma of being considered a damp, dark area to be used only for storage and laundry. Today’s basements are being transformed into everything from a home office, theatre and gym to bedrooms, extra living rooms and kitchens.

The possibilities are endless! And now, is a great time to start thinking about how to make your extra real estate space work for you.

The basement is the typical location of your home’s mechanical systems, including the water heater and pipes, electrical boxes and wiring, the furnace and heating ducts.

These systems are essential to running your existing space and a renovated basement, so their placement and requirements must be taken into account. Consider hiring a professional contractor or designer; they will know what can (and just as importantly, cannot!) be done during a renovation.

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include based on your stairs access, then get started on designing.

Tips to keep in mind when designing your space: STORAGE

You can never have enough storage! Plan to include as much storage as you possibly can. Built-in storage always looks sophisticated, saves space and can further add to the function of your new area. Consider drawers carved out under the stairs, built-in shelving and closets. In this washroom, I’ve used a great vanity from Canadian made Cutler Kitchen and Bath that gives the homeowner more storage under the sink (cutlerkitchenandbath.com). You will never regret adding more storage.

PERSONALITY

Incorporating architectural details found in the rest of your home, such as wainscoting, crown moulding and baseboards, will make this an inviting area you will enjoy spending time in. A word of caution, use these details in scale to the space you are building. Although this is a new area, continuing your colour scheme and furniture choices downstairs will create continuity and can make small spaces seem larger.

ACCESSORIES

Accessorizing is a great way to add in colours. In this space, we went for a neutral base so it wasn’t too male or female oriented. I added in great colours with artwork and pillows from Bouclair Home and Ikea.

FLOORING

I was recently involved with a client’s basement renovation. Their wish list included an extra living room, a guest room, laundry area, and bathroom. Each of these inclusions was based on different needs such as everyday living requirements (extra space and a functional laundry room), entertaining (a guest room and the living room) and resale value (the bathroom). It was a tall order for only 310 sq.ft.

While it is a great starting point to consider what you want to have included in your basement, you need to be aware of the limitations of this space. Most basements are accessible only by a staircase, and you are restricted as to what can be taken down those stairs. Keep this factor in mind as you make design decisions.

Another factor to consider is your local housing market.

Renovations are an investment in your home, as well as an increase to your living space. Review the value of homes in your area to ensure your renovation will yield a good return on investment. Based on the local market value and comparable listings, set a budget for what you want to include and can

How you plan to use your basement will influence your flooring choice, but you should keep in mind the cost, look and environmental factors. Carpet adds warmth, but is expensive and not ideal for damp areas. In such areas, consider laminate or engineered hardwood flooring. All basements should have a sub-floor created before installing the selected flooring. By finishing your space with the proper flooring, you’ll have created an inviting space you can enjoy all year round.

It’s time to put your basement to good use! Whatever your needs are for the space, whatever limitations you have, you can transform this area into a functional “addition” to your home.

JO ALCORN Jo Alcorn is a celebrity designer specializing in small spaces and design solutions for all budgets.

She is the interior expert on HGTV’s new show Critical Listing, and shares her expertise regularly on TV and through her monthly column at the Toronto Sun. whitewashco.ca

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Art House Interiors provides exceptional interior design for your home and business.

fireplace design | basement project | kitchen & bath remodeling concepts & renderings | design consultation | project management

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COVERSTORY

A LESSON

in

design

DESIGNER YANIC SIMARD CHATS DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION AND HOW HE CREATED THIS BEAUTIFUL HOME AROUND A CLASSIC GREY SHADE. photos by GILLIAN JACKSON

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A home renovation can be a daunting task in so many ways: settling on a perfect design can be tough enough (especially without professional help), but then bringing this design to life, is a whole other story. Ultimately, the finished project is more than worth the effort. So read on to find my tips for creating a vision and surviving the construction, based on a recent home makeover led by me and my Toronto Interior Design Group in beautiful Port Credit, Ont. STAY CONSISTENT: -Despite what TV shows taught us in years past, usually a beautiful renovation doesn’t require each room to have a "theme." I typically aim to tie space together by using unifying details throughout, such as a consistent wall colour or flooring.

-In this project, Benjamin Moore’s OC-23 Classic Gray dresses walls and ceilings and cabinetry throughout, while a rich hardwood floor connects the dining and kitchen spaces, laid on a diagonal to create long lines that expand the space and add a sense of energy.

TIP: Lately, one of my favourite design go-tos is the sleek, square-edged undermount sink. It’s a contemporary touch that suits any kitchen style, and is very functional too, especially with a fitted sink grate.

…EXCEPT WHEN YOU DON’T: -With a clear base in place, the palette then has room to play with some mixing and matching. The homeowner came to me initially with a sample of the material that became the dazzling island, but rather than use it everywhere and overwhelming the space, I contrasted it against a simpler deep grey quartz for the back counters and fireplace surround.

-With the cabinet pulls and handles in a satin nickel finish, I wanted to reintroduce some subtle warmth in the light fixtures. To play against the cool crispness, I found these airy pendants in bronze and sconces in hammered gold, with exposed bulbs for a radiant glow.

Mixing stones, metals, finishes and design periods brings a sense of personality and life to a space, so it never feels cookie-cutter.

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GO BIG: -In a compact room, a few big statements go a lot further than a heaping helping of clutter. For the compact powder room, I mirrored a full wall, with a frame and singular sconce to add some traditional elegance and a sense of polish. The rest of the room is simple, clad in a subtle wallpaper, allowing the onyx and marble mosaic tile floor to speak on its own.

-In a master bath, the luxe look of the era is big tile, with a colour-matched grout that disappears for a look of endless stone elegance. Offsetting the stone in a simple brick layout helps hide the seams, as does the organic pattern. Here, the simple mirror and block vanity let the tile be the focus, suiting the scale of the room but not stealing the show.

KNOW WHEN TO SPLURGE AND WHEN TO SAVE: -If you can afford it, renovating several rooms at once will save on various labour costs. However, don’t stretch your budget too far, set aside the money to do each space right the first time (with some emergency funds left over for unexpected issues), and you’ll still love it years later.

-If you love a material, rather than replacing it with a less appealing substitute, consider tiling less space. For example, tile one full wall of the bathroom in natural stone and leave the others plain, or use a must-have material for your counters and a simple backsplash. (Subway tile is affordable and timeless, so it’s always a great option.)

-Just updating from a shower curtain to a glass panel modernizes any bathroom.

You can have them custom-fitted to a tub, or create a shower stall – either way, consider a sophisticated, smokey grey tint to add an unexpected twist.

Working with a designer Tackling a renovation always takes a strong team, and that includes you!

Here are some tips to keep in mind when working with a designer to achieve your dream design.

BE UPFRONT: Homeowners are often timid about presenting a budget, or unsure of their own taste and expectations. Giving your designer as much information as possible at the start will lead to a more satisfying result, and faster.

DO A LITTLE RESEARCH: Taking even just an hour or two to gather images from your favourite magazines or blogs will help reveal what you truly love – even if your eye can’t spot the patterns, your designer will! Houzz is a go-to website I often use when looking for mood-board images for myself or my clients. I recommend putting together your own "ideabook." Plus, you can check out my new inspirational ideabooks every week!

KEEP CALM: In most renovations, there comes a time about three-quarters of the way through where maximum homeowner stress arrives. Money has been spent, the construction site is bustling, and nothing seems like it could possibly be finished on time. This is the moment to take a big breath – soon the mess will be swept away and a beautiful new space will appear.

TRUST: Ultimately, getting the best from a designer means choosing someone whose taste you trust, and then letting them put their skills to use. The best designs always include some elements you never thought would work until you see the spectacular results!

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

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RENOVATE WITH A RENOMARK CONTRACTOR

AND RENOVATE WITH CONFIDENCE

Modular Home Additions Ltd. Grow Your Home in 3 Days!

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Domilya Group Transforming Your Dreams into Reality 647-300-1242 www.domilyagroup.ca

ESTO Construction Co. Ltd. Our Passion is Making Your Dreams Come True 416-752-3702 www.estoconstruction.ca

BRIAN T. FLETCHER CONSTRUCTION (2008) LTD.

5481 Dundas St. W. Toronto, ON M9B 1B5 www.fletcherconstruction.ca Tel: 416-626-7746 Fax: 416-626-6043 eMail: brian@fletcherconstruction.ca

Alair Custom Homes & Renovations Transparency - Insight - Value 416-988-1661 www.alairhomes.com

Brian T. Fletcher Construction Ltd. General Contrator 416-626-7746 www.fletcherconstruction.ca

Sosna Inc. Total Contracting Contractor You Can Count On! 416-452-5259 www.sosna.ca

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Participating BILD member contractors agree to RenoMark’s national 10-point renovation specific Code of Conduct that includes providing a written contract and scope of work for all jobs, a twoyear warranty, carrying appropriate licenses and permits and securing a minimum $2 million in liability insurance.

The RenoMark program brings professionalism and integrity to the renovation industry.

For helpful advice and to find the right RenoMark renovator for your project visit www.RenoMark.ca

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EXPERTADVICE

• LEARN TO RENOVATE •

like an HGTV STAR

Rob Evans knows renovations! As renovating star of The Expandables on HGTV, he designs and builds new spaces for homeowners without adding one extra square foot. How’s that possible? You’ll have to tune in to find out! In the meantime, if you’re planning a renovation in 2015, Evans lends expert advice to HDR readers that you won’t want to miss.

1u KNOW YOUR PROJECT

Fully understand your own project before you solicit for quotes. Whether you hire trained professionals or design everything yourself, it is imperative that you know the majority of details so you can clearly communicate this to your contractor. Document the project so there is a common outline between all parties involved. This will help catch all the little added details that can fall off during an involved project.

2u GATHER QUOTES

This seems obvious, but get at least three. I’m always amazed at how little homework clients do. Often it’s just "a friend of a friend" who takes on the project! Create a document that clearly outlines the project and your expectations. Supply the same document to all contractors who are quoting. This allows you to compare the quotes "apples to apples".

3u CHOOSING A CONTRACTOR

Cost, timing and capabilities are all factors when choosing the right contractor, but key attributes that are often overlooked are communication and trust. You are entrusting your contractor with your home and your hard earned money, so you need to have a great working relationship with this person. You don’t have to be best buds and you may not share a pint with them, but they must instill a level of professionalism and trustworthiness with you. Ask yourself: do you really want to give this guy a chunk of money and the keys to your house? Get references and call them, ask everything. Any contractor can find beautiful imagery and say he built it.

Talk to previous clients and ask them about their project.

4u BIG PICTURE

Before starting a project, think of your house as a whole. Assess your plans and what you would like to achieve with the house for the time you'll be there. Then prioritize and budget. Having a clear picture of the future of your house will allow you to prioritize your project more effectively. It wouldn't make sense, for example, to finish your kitchen when the only access to the basement project you're planning next is through that beautiful kitchen you just finished.

5u BE REALISTIC

Regardless of the size of your project, your contractor should do their best to manage it effectively. However, our industry is rife with pitfalls. The “stuff happens” rule applies rampantly. As long as your contractor reacts appropriately and effectively, stay calm. A good contractor will communicate the issues and the proposed solutions. Getting wound up at every little bump will only make everything more stressful for you. Trust your contractor.

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6u SHOULD I STAY, OR SHOULD I GO?

Picture this: you're in the basement with your family, huddled around a card table eating a microwaved dinner and washing dishes in the bathtub, while the guy you gave $200,000 to reno your house works noisily above you. Is it worth it? It is important to have a clear understanding of the implications a reno will have on your life and daily routine. Renovations are messy and they can inconvenience you in a major way. Weigh the pros and cons of the money saved by staying in the house and the quality of life gained by moving out. As a general rule of thumb, and depending on the size of the project, I prefer clients to find somewhere else to stay during a project. Visit often but the added turmoil in your life just doesn’t warrant staying in your house.

7u PROFESSIONALS

Know when you are over your head. Use the appropriate professionals to help develop and design your project. Yes, they add expense to the job, but the end result is usually a better product built more efficiently. They are aware of all industry rules and regulations and can also bring newer, more creative ideas, products and best practices to the table.

COST, TIMING AND CAPABILITIES ARE ALL FACTORS WHEN CHOOSING THE RIGHT CONTRACTOR, BUT KEY ATTRIBUTES THAT ARE OFTEN OVERLOOKED ARE COMMUNICATION AND TRUST.

10u TIMING

All quotes should come with timing guidelines. Your contractor should follow these stringently. However, if you're nearing the end of your project when the fine finishes are being applied, it makes no sense to rush things for the sake of a few days or a week. Rush the framing, rush the drywall, but when the expensive tiles are being applied or that $1,000 light fixture is going in, know when to give a little breathing room.

11u PROJECT SPRAWL

Once a contractor is in your house, there is always the inevitable "Hey, while you're here..." Projects can grow in scope quite quickly. What began as adding pot lights to a bathroom can quickly become a bathroom gut job. This is fine, but remember the implications to your timing and budget. As well, make sure the core project that you started doesn’t get bumped because of "project sprawl."

THE EXPANDABLES airs on HGTV Canada Thursdays at 9 PM and 9:30 PM EST. hgtv.ca/theexpandables/

8u REALISTIC BUDGET

I have never seen another industry where the average Joe thinks they know the costs involved. Whenever a friend brags to me how little their project cost was, I wonder how well it was done and how long it will last.

You will never get a contractor back to a job if there are issues with money.

Be realistic with your budget; good work costs money. There is nothing worse than spending a lot and not getting exactly what you want. Budget accordingly and understand clearly what you are getting for your money.

9u PAYMENT SCHEDULE

Make sure the payment schedule outlined in the quote from your contractor is amenable to both parties and doesn’t leave you exposed. Pay a deposit, installments once critical stages have been completed and then insist upon at least a 10 per cent holdback to ensure deficiencies are dealt with. Do not make a deal with your contractor to do the job at a lower price for cash! Not only is this practice illegal, there is no paper trail to cover you if the project should need any sort of litigation.

ROB EVANS A specialist in renovating residential properties, Rob began his career as the owner and operator of a successful design firm which inform his creative and aesthetically adventurous style. His projects range from complete home rebuilds to furniture design and construction. Rob likes to get involved in every step of the construction process. One day he’ll be meeting with architects and structural engineers, the next securing building permits and digging out basements.

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RENOMARK

THE RENOVATION INDUSTRY CREATES JOBS

by BRYAN TUCKEY

YOUR HOME IS LIKELY THE LARGEST ASSET YOU WILL ever

have, so when the time comes to renovate, you want to make sure it’s done right.

A home renovation can significantly improve the value of your home, as well as make it more enjoyable for you and your family.

Whether you are opening up your living room to embrace modern open-concept design, upgrading your bathroom with energyefficient features or simply adding a recreational room in your basement – all these projects require the attention of a professional renovator.

A professional renovator has the knowledge and experience to assess your project and provide you with a reasonable timeframe and price tag. These details will be included in a written and signed contract and your renovator should maintain a constant stream of communication to ensure that you are kept up-to-date on the progress status.

I understand the temptation behind hiring someone for cash under the table to avoid paying tax, but doing so is risky business.

If you think hiring a professional is expensive, just wait and see how much it costs to repair a project handled by an amateur.

Professional renovators, such as the ones bearing the RenoMark brand, carry all applicable licenses and permits, provide at least two years of warranty on all jobs and ensure that all agreements are documented in a detailed, legal contract – the most important part of a renovation project.

Without a formal contract, a renovator cannot be held accountable for producing substandard work or even for bailing on the job. This will leave the homeowner’s hands tied if legal recourse is in order, which often results in hiring a professional to finish or repair the existing work – something that may cost a lot more than simply hiring a pro from the beginning.

Another great reason to use a professional renovator is its contribution to the local economy. The renovation industry creates thousands of new jobs every year in construction and related fields. Just in 2013 alone, the renovation industry in the GTA

created 100,000 jobs that paid out an impressive $5.4 billion in wages. These wages later show up as purchases of food, clothing or entertainment across our local economy, further adding to our region’s economic growth.

Renovators operating in the underground economy are detrimental to the economic prosperity of our region, withholding thousands of dollars worth of tax-generated revenue. This is money that can be used to improve our communities by building or repairing roads, community centres and charitable events.

It’s important to consider the economic implications of using an underground renovator and realize that it’s detrimental to our neighbourhoods.

There are hundreds of professional renovators available for hire across the GTA, many of which are associated with the RenoMark program – a great tool for homeowners to find professional renovators, trade contractors and custom home builders in their area. The program has been around since 2001 and has since spread outside the GTA across 10 provinces.

Just visit renomark.ca to learn more about the RenoMark Code of Conduct that every RenoMark renovator has agreed to abide by. Next visit the Find a Renovator section to search for a professional contractor near you.

You’ll be glad you did!

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

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For more information on modern James Hardie design solutions email: jhdesign@jameshardie.com

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CULTURED STONE • NATURAL STONE • BRICK VENEER • FAUX STONE SIDING

BARRIE | CONCORD | MARKHAM

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