Edmonton Home Decor & Renovations - Sept/Oct 2016

SEPT - OCT 2016 VOLUME 14, ISSUE 5, FREE EDMONTON EDITION

PLUS IN THIS ISSUE

The Season for Renovation The signature piece that defines your renovation

Todd Talbot:

FOR THE LOVE (AND LISTING)

OF HOMES

CANADIAN HOME BUILDERS’ ASSOCIATION » PROFESSIONAL RENOVATORS

RENOVATION BY: RENCON INDUSTRIES INC.

DO IT RIGHT… HIRE A PROFESSIONAL RENOVATOR. GET IT DONE RIGHT THE FIRST TIME Choosing a recognized professional renovator is the best decision you can make when renovating your home! Being an informed and knowledgeable consumer is essential and since 2007 RenoMark has raised the bar by identifying renovation contractors in the Edmonton Area who have agreed to the Canadian Home Builders’ Association Code of Ethics and a renovationspecific Code of Conduct.

Renovate with confidence – hire a CHBA-Edmonton Region RenoMark renovator for your next renovation and embrace the renovation process with a sense of security and peace of mind.

For more information on CHBA-ER, RenoMark or to access a complete list of CHBA-ER & RenoMark members visit www.renomark.ca/EdmontonRegion

THIS ISSUE’S PARTICIPATING MEMBERS:

Ph. (780) 434-0923 www.innovationplus.ca

Ph. (780) 450-1399 www.effecthomes.ca

Ph. (780) 986-2160 www.renconindustries.ca

Ph. (780) 481-7671 www.aquarianrenovations.com

Ph. (780) 465-8071 www.revolvingrooms.ca

Ph. (780) 686-4273 www.benjaminmatthew.ca

Ph. (780) 435-6304 www.serenitycontracting.ca

Ph. (780) 433-3166 www.diamondcontractingab.ca

Ph. (780) 479-6032 www.homestyleconstruction.ca

Ph. (780) 244-0504 www.acutaboveliving.com

Ph. (780) 660-1026 www.fortresshomes.ca

Ph. (780) 414-0686 www.ackard.com

FOR A COMPLETE LIST OF MEMBER CONTRACTORS CALL (780) 425-1020 OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT WWW.RENOMARK.CA/EDMONTONREGION

contents

V O LU M E 14 I S S U E 0 5

SEPT - OCT 2016

Cover Story

Todd Talbot: For the Love (and Listing) of Homes

By Salina Yara Halabi

8

pg

16 In every issue

6 Editor’s Notebook business profiles 12 Touchtone Canada 22 Home Style Construction

by Salina Yara Halabi

26 HD&R features 14 News CHBA Awards of Excellence finalists

16 Feature The signature piece that defines your renovation

by Marie Soprovich

20 Style Inspiration Choosing a concrete contractor: Five easy steps

by RenĂŠe Majeau

29 26 RenoMark The Season for Renovation

28 Decoding The Code

by Michael Nyikes

29 Expert Advice

An organized effort

By Jane Lockhart

Editor’s Notebook

SEPT - OCT 2016 VOLUME 14 ISSUE 05

Get ready for Fall

President, YP NextHome

Jacqueline Hill Editor-In-Chief / Director of Content

Susan Legge Director of Sales, National

Moe Lalani Art Director

Megan Pike Editor/Account Executive

WELCOME TO THE FALL ISSUE of the Home Décor & Renovations Magazine!

It’s hard to believe yet another summer has gone by, however, it’s an exciting time for those looking to get back indoors to update, decorate and renovate their home. Whether you’re planning a small project or a major home transformation, we have the information to help you every step of the way.

This year, the Edmonton Fall Home Show brings us Todd Talbot – the multitalented host of Love it or List It Vancouver. Armed with a passion for real estate and a flair for design, he has become one of Canada’s most beloved television personalities. We caught up with Todd for his advice on what important factors people should be considering before taking on a renovation. Be sure to check out our cover story “Todd Talbot: For the Love (and Listing) of Homes” on pg 8.

Fall means back to school, back to work and back to routines and schedules.

Having your home in order can keep you on time and on track for everything the season has in store for you. In this issue we bring you Jane Lockhart’s article “An Organized Effort”, which offers some key tips to maximizing the use of any space.

Tightly folding each sheet set in your linen closet and then placing them inside the corresponding pillowcase will help keep everything together and organized... mind = blown! Lockhart stresses that good organization may take a little more time and money in the beginning, but it will be well worth the effort in the end.

See more on page 29.

Home Décor & Renovations Magazine is proud to announce the finalists in the Renovation categories for the 2016 CHBA–Alberta Awards of Excellence.

Winners in these categories, plus three prestigious Builder of the Year Awards will be announced September 16 at BUILD 2016 in Jasper. See page 14 to check out the renovators that have been recognized as the best in the industry.

Congratulations to all the finalists!

Whether you’re planning a small project or a major home transformation, we have the information to help you every step of the way. Heed the advice of the professionals gracing our pages, and do it right the first time. Hiring a professional means you can renovate with confidence, and that your renovation dreams can be realized.

Happy Renovating!

NANCY CHEMAIT EDITOR, YP NEXTHOME nancy.chemait@ypnexthome.ca

Nancy Chemait 780.619.3241 Production Manager

Helen Pearce Production Co-Ordinator

Dennis Ng Contributors

Shell Busey Sara Duck Elisa Krovblit Michael Nyikes Salina Yara Halabi Marie Soprovich

Home Decor & Renovations magazine is published six times a year. Home Decor & Renovations magazine is distributed throughout Edmonton and Greater Edmonton area. This publication has been designed for the renovation market as a guide. Home Decor & 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 Decor & Renovations magazine and not that of the advertiser. The advertiser has purchased the right of reproduction in Home Decor & 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 decor & renovations PO Box 458 Station Main Edmonton, Alberta T5J 2K1

Follow us on twitter: twitter.com/YPNextHome Like us on Facebook Facebook.com/HomeDecorandReno

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

Check out our site: ypnexthome.ca 6 YPNEXTHOME.CA

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Cover Story Cover Story

TODD TALBOT:

FOR THE LOVE (AND LISTING) OF HOMES

By Salina Yara Halabi 8 YPNEXTHOME.CA

visit to the upcoming Edmonton Fall Home Show to talk about his journey into the industry, and also got his thoughts on the everlasting dillema of renovating vs. moving.

Q: What is the most important question you think someone should ask themselves when deciding between moving or renovating?

A: There are a couple things to focus on. When people decide where they are going to live it’s always based on lifestyle. Of course, people want their home to look great, but that’s secondary. The first element that people should focus on is if the space functions well for their family. Then, they should think about the renovation: will the renovation fix the problem and what are the econmics of it. Make sure that the investment you’re going to put into the house is not only something that will serve you now, but also gives you at least your money back when you decide to sell. Real estate can be one of the most powerful investments that anybody makes in their lives, so always keep that in mind.

Q: What is the question you get asked most often at home and renovation trade shows – is it related to real estate or renovations?

A: It’s ‘how tall are you’? People are fixated on how tall I am! And, what kind of socks I’m wearing – I get that a lot. I get all kinds of crazy questions. At the end of the day, I think people are most interested in financial choices.

Are they buying at the right time in the market? Is it a smart choice to do their kitchen and spend ‘this’ amount of money on ‘this’ house at ‘this’ time? People want to have someone tell them yes, this is a smart choice.

Everyone wants you to validate their thought process and they want that crystal ball. People want to know if prices going up, and it’s a weird thing because people spend all day analyzing that and no one has the answer to it. Overall, the more educated you are and the more questions you ask, the greater chance you have to make good choices.

The thing that people need to remember is that, at the end of the day they’re responsible for their decisions - they can’t pass off that responsibility. You need to do your due diligence and make an informed choice about what you’re going to do - whether if that’s renovating or buying a new home. And, of course, people always ask me “do people really love it, and really list it”?

Q: You do a lot of travelling! Has there been any city in particular that has inspired you by its style and energy.

A: There are so many great cities! Well, I went to theatre school in London LOVE IT OR LIST IT VANCOUVER’S SAVVY REALTOR, Todd Talbot, knows a thing or two

and it’s my 20th reunion this year so I’m flying back this year and I can’t wait

about making the right home investment. His

one of the things we don’t have in Canada is that rich dynamic history of

industry witt and charismatic persona has made him

architecture, and that kind of layered year-after-year of development. You

a staple on the small screen. With an impressive real

know those young growing pains that cities like Edmonton and Vancouver

estate resume at hand and a captiviating approach

are going through right now, well cities like London have went through

to the housing market, it’s no surpise that Love it or

that time and time again. When you walk through the streets of London

List it Vancouver is closing in on its 100th episode!

there’s this rich sense of history and I love that. The architecture in Europe

We caught up with Todd before his much anticipated

is amazing and very different from here.

to see how much the city has changed in 20 years. I love London! I think

SEPT - OCT, 2016 | HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 9

tile and take it home, put it up, see it in

and but I wondered why more people

That’s my favourite – west coast

different light, and sleep on your decision.

weren’t doing this? I was a full time actor

contemporary that uses a lot wood and

Then go back to the store to order the

but I started to explore real estate and

linear lines. But, I’m like a foodie for

tile, which could take up 6-8 weeks if the

learning how to invest kind of behind the

houses! I love all kinds, and there’s value

tile isn’t in stock! I still get frustrated in

scenes. As I started to learn more about

to be had everywhere!

those processes – I want it to move faster

the process and I wanted to try a little bit

than it can!

of everything - I wanted to eat from the

I do love west coast architecture.

Q: Have you seen any style trends this

I also think that if you’re going to hire

buffet of real estate!

year that you either love or aren’t the

a trade, like an electrician, you need to be

biggest fan of?

able to be flexible with their schedules.

flipped it, and then I bought run-down

I tried buying a presale home and

Another thing that I always advise people

old duplex and renovated it. I always

A: I get asked the trend question a ton,

on is if you’re going to hire somebody to

wanted to renovate older homes - that

because everyone wants to know what

work on your house in any capacity, you

was kind of my whole desire, so I started

the newest thing is. But, I’m a little bit of

need to be there when they are working!

doing that while I was acting full-time.

a traditionalist – not in like an old style

There will be choices that will need to

People in my community started taking

way – I like things that have stood the

be made on the spot, like where a plug

me out for a beer and asking me how to

test of time. I like a clean palette, I like

goes when they are wiring something and

do what I was doing in real estate and

it to be light and bright – lots of white

where the first tile is being set – those

I’d share with them what I had learned.

with natural elements, which again are

are subjective choices. If you’re not there

After many requests, I decided to do a

traditional like wood and stone. On the

when the decision is being made, and you

workshop with my acting community

west coast there’s a lot of that lighter and

aren’t happy with the result, going back

in Vancouver. The room was packed

‘beachier’ kind of white-grey and white-

to fix it is a nightmare. Make sure you are

- everyone was so interested! Fast-

blue themes. We just redid our main room

there, watching and asking questions –

forward, I ended up starting a company

and used a lot of blues and tones like that.

don’t be shy about it!

with a friend of mine called Condo Guys

Q: You recently went through a home

Q: You have a very interesting

and sell properties in greater Vancouver.

renovation - what is the biggest lesson

background in entertainment - what

As we were selling these properties, we

you’ve learned from going through a

got you into the real estate and housing

realized that we really wanted to help

personal home project?

industry?

our clients get the most money, so we

Marketing, which helped people buy

started staging these properties and I

A: The cliché double the time and double

A: I think it was two things. I grew up

decided to start a staging company called

the budget is pretty accurate. It always

with my parents who didn’t really invest in

Condo Guys Staging. I ran that for about

takes longer than you think it’s going

stocks and bonds; instead they put their

five years, and staged properties for a

to take. Everyone is unrealistic about

money into the homes we had. We built

long time – all behind the scenes. I never

timeline! My brother had a great response

a home in Salt Spring Island when we

really promoted it and I was still acting

when I asked him when he thought he

were little, and my mom was always very

full-time.

would be done his renovation - he said

interested in the world of design; so, I

in ten years! His reasoning was that if he

think that was a big factor. When I moved

High Society the musical at Stanley

said ten years he would be happy if it was

back to Vancouver 15 years ago I bought

theatre from a producer who was looking

done earlier.

my first place, and it was a great time

for a guy for the show called Love It or

to buy because the real estate market

List It Vancouver. He thought I’d be the

reason why renovations take a lot of

had just the turned a corner and it was

perfect fit as it brought together my real

time, and why it should take a lot of time,

starting to increase. My little brother gave

estate world and my background from TV.

is that there are so many decisions that

me a book on real estate investing, which

The rest is history!

need to be made. It’s a creative process

kind of described this idea of refinancing

and you need to give yourself the space

and being able to take the equity from

and time to percolate on some things.

one property and buy another one while

If you just roll into a tile store and you

holding onto the one before - kind of

choose something you like from a

this buy-and-hold strategy. I thought

magazine, chances are that might not be

that this is such a simple concept – I

the best choice. It’s great to pick up the

understood there was risk involved

I think the devil is in the details. The

10 YPNEXTHOME.CA

One day I got call while I was doing

BE SURE TO CATCH TODD AT THE EDMONTON FALL HOME SHOW FROM OCTOBER 21- 23!

Bring your home dreams to life The Edmonton Fall Home Show is where big ideas, trusted advice, and fresh inspiration unite. Complete with more than 200 brands and local companies, and the biggest names in the industry, including W Network’s Todd Talbot, co-host of Love It or List It Vancouver and Beverly Hills Designer, Christopher Grubb. 3 days only, buy tickets online and save!

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Builder Profile

TOUCHTONE CANADA BEFORE YOU EVEN CONSIDER shopping anywhere else, you must see the massive showrooms of Touchtone Canada.

Easily accessed off the Whitemud Freeway, Touchtone has an amazing collection of flooring like carpets, tiles, mosaics, luxury vinyl planks, engineered and hardwood, laminate, European window blinds, wall panels.

Established in 1994, Touchtone Canada is proud to have served Edmontonians in all aspects of flooring and specialize in new housing, renovations, commercial, and multiple housing.

Touchtone has worked on projects for major corporations like University of Alberta, Tim Hortons, CIBC, T.D.Bank, McDonalds, Starbucks, Superstore, various property management companies, senior housing etc. Whether retail, restaurant, commercial, homebuilder, or just want something spectacular for your home, Touchtone Canada is capable and ready to serve. Touchtone has in stock more than 250 designs in tiles, 75 designs of carpet and plenty of in house colors and designs of wood, laminate, LVP, and other materials. With 50,000 sq. ft. of showroom and warehouse space, you are bound to find the ideal product at the perfect price and no waiting for your order.

On hand stock in excess of million sq. ft. of tiles and mosaic, 500,000 sq. ft. of engineered wood and laminates, a million sq. ft. of carpet and so much more, you can walk out with your treasures – no waiting!

Carpet lines include Shaw, Mohawk, Beaulieu, Kraus, Mannington and of course, the luxurious, high end Kane.

Touchtone is proud to be one of only two distributors in 12 YPNEXTHOME.CA

Canada for the prestigious Kane product. Besides direct imports of tiles we sell products from Tierrasol, Daltile, Olympia, Julian, Euro, Primco, and Ames. Check out the incomparable Puccini mosaics so beautiful, so colourful and perfect for that special place. You can choose hardwood, engineered wood, laminate flooring, LVP from the vast selection including Shaw, Mohawk, Beaulieu, Europlex, Du Chateau European hardwood, Dansk and more.

Touchtone’s staff of 25 includes professional designers and quality control supervisors. The professional designers will help with all aspects of your project either in our office or your location. Quality control supervisors inspect each project, regardless of size, before, during and upon completion. Touchtone has more than 40 installation crews with 200 contractors with the capacity to install 25,000 sq. ft. of flooring per day. Touchtone even can do same day installation and delivery if required.

As direct importers from the USA, China, Italy, Europe, and other countries, Touchtone buys in bulk resulting in the widest selection and lowest prices. Touchtone is an exclusive distributor of many unique products and will beat ALL advertised prices and written quotes by a minimum of 5%...can’t beat that!

Touchtone Canada prides itself in providing quality products, unbelievable pricing, and outstanding service. Their goal is to exceed their client’s expectations!

Checkout their website for more info www.touchtonecanada.com or better yet, come see this vast Touchtone showroom and prepare to be amazed! Convenient location and great hours. Monday – Friday – 9 -5:30 Saturday- 10-5 pm. Sundays and after hours by appointment.

Touchtone Canada 4120 – 98 Street, Edmonton, Alberta SEPT - OCT, 2016 | HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 13

CHBA – ALBERTA AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING FINALISTS

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It represents over 1,600 business members including new home builders, renovators, developers, trade and supply companies, and professional services.

Feature

The signature piece that defines your renovation

by Marie Soprovich Owner Aquarian Renovations

GOLF COURSES HAVE A SIGNATURE HOLE, vacations have signature destinations and good renovations have signature pieces which define and identify the homeowner’s flair for style and personality. Adding a signature piece to your renovation adds to the wow factor and brings that personal nod of approval defining your renovation as uniquely you.

Aquarian has completed many amazing renovations in the past 25 years adding character and style to client homes and by helping homeowners to find “that one thing” that becomes their defining statement. Clients often have a passion for a particular look or finding the perfect spot for an heirloom piece of glass and sometimes it is as simple as a light fixture that becomes that “one thing” signature piece. Through excellent collaboration between the design team and the homeowners along with an impeccable selection of material, superb suppliers, trades and a construction team second to none, the style and the vison come to life.

16 YPNEXTHOME.CA

BEFORE

The possibility of a renovation with that special signature piece that tickles your fancy and delights you every time you come home is totally doable. Creating magical spaces is inherent within the capacity every homeowner has. Whether budget is a concern or not, selecting one or two special features is really important and almost always, it is doable. A helpful strategy is to imagine the feeling of this special item or space as already being there. Then let your imagination, along with the help of a skilled designer pull these pieces together. Homeowners are often surprised at how well this process works and just how much joy results from finding that one special signature piece that personalizes the renovation that little bit more. Homeowner showcase these signature pieces with pride and say, “That’s really me!”

Let’s take a peak into this major house renovation which included raising the roof to create nine foot walls and vaulted ceilings. The kitchen is remarkably

spacious and an extremely functional working space designed for loads of entertaining and gourmet cooking. The state-of-the-art wine room is complete with tempered air and a stunning and substantial wine rack filled with a serious wine collection. These are just some of the features that were essentials in this renovation. The signature focus here however, is on the replacement of a tired masonry brick fireplace with a three-sided gas fireplace, complete with a stunning hand crafted copper hood.

This piece was the little extra that Dirk found irresistible in his overall plan. This custom-hammered copper show stopper was crafted by Hoods by Hammersmith and it adds that extra focal point, drawing conversation directly to it when you walk into the large open living space in this house. The stone by stone back wall adds a contrasting texture and a natural back drop to the warm hearth and cheery centre piece. Dirk is absolutely thrilled with his selection, “This fireplace with

on them too!” laughs Kim. Take a look at the results of some good planning and investing. A clean family, happy pet owners and a place where the mud stops here - define this signature piece as magic for these two homeowners.

BEFORE

the copper hood is a little place where I added just a little extra to the budget. I wanted the blend of the traditional kitchen and the culinary look this piece adds is one of warmth and an inviting feeling to my home. I am really pleased with my selection and when it is cold and dark outside the light from the fireplace dances around the whole great room and this place is even more spectacular.”

Laundry rooms are another excellent signature piece that may be underrated by some of the flashier places created in the home renovation - but just ask those who are the keepers of clean and organized! They will be the first to tell you how much they revel in the function, design and practicality of a well planned and well-constructed laundry/mud room.

Happy homeowners will tell you, “If you have a furry pet… the dog shower station is a must. After Rover comes back with me from our morning run I just shower his paws and dry him off before he runs through the house. This is also an excellent place to completely shower and shampoo our pets … and when our kids come home dirty… it works

Bringing an heirloom washbasin and finding a special place to make it new again is a powerful signature piece in this outstanding renovation. Memorabilia adds a feeling of nostalgia while surrounded by the homeowner’s classic taste brings a uniqueness to this signature piece. A small heirloom washbasin was mounted on an antique dresser and the uniqueness of this power room on the main floor is one of a kind. Bringing a little of the old and making it new again gives a feeling of harmony and salutes the past. Next to this powder room is a coffered ceiling and wainscoted formal dining room that continues the classy feel and elegances to match the spiral staircase and grand entrance meeting you at the front door.

Selecting just the right wall paper to accent the era highlights the importance of this washbasin. A careful selection was made in the antique dresser, now converted perfectly into the wash stand.

The two pieces joined together creating a new signature that has roots in the past. This magnificent home is filled with treasures from one well-planned end to another. The attention to detail was painstakingly made by the homeowner and the design coordinator and the results are enjoyed every day.

As you plan your renovation, big or small, consider your signature piece. Will it be the extra investment in a backsplash of Italian tiles inlayed with mosaic, or a curved rock wall that greats you and your family every time they come through the front door, or perhaps is it the hand scraped reclaimed timber floor that is stunning in grandeur as it is in history. As the homeowner, you get to dream big and at Aquarian we will help you make your dreams come true.

Marie Soprovich Owner of Aquarian Renovations; Writer, Visionary, Leader.

Visit www.aquarianrenovations.com or call 780.481.7671 SEPT - OCT, 2016 | HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 17

styles that inspire Visit our showroom to explore the beautifully designed DXV faucets and fixtures by American Standard.

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1. Committed – We are committed to ensuring your clients stay excited about the process, providing

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2. Expertise and Knowledge – Our showroom

consultants have extensive in-house product knowledge and expertise to guide your clients to the right choice on a wide variety of high-quality fixture and furnishings… including luxurious, exclusive products no other showroom can offer.

3. First-Class Showroooms – Wolseley invests in

showrooms for a reason: to ensure our customers (and yours!) are impressed by their in-store experience, making it easy for them to see the ever-changing styles, colors and finishes and be assisted with utmost professionalism.

4. Brand Excellence – Kitchen & Bath Classics stocks

and displays the highest quality brands. Many of the lines we carry are unique to our showrooms, and every brand comes with a promise of complete client satisfaction.

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Style Inspiration successful finished projects. The pictures will help you understand what to expect, and perhaps even offer new ideas.

CHOOSING A CONCRETE CONTRACTOR:

FIVE EASY STEPS

By Renée Majeau, City MiniMix Concrete Inc.

FINDING AND HIRING THE RIGHT CONCRETE CONTRACTOR can be intimidating and often challenging. We have all heard horror stories of concrete projects gone “bad” – it is easy for anyone in the industry to place an ad or to advertise themselves as a contractor.

However, with proper screening and legwork, choosing a concrete contractor does not have to be a gamble. By following these five easy steps, you can choose a professional who is dependable, honest and above all, competent.

STEP 1: Research + Educate Yourself Do initial research to create a list of potential contractors. Look online for concrete contractors in your area, or ask your friends and family for referrals.

At the same time, determine the scope and budget for your concrete project.

Search the internet for ideas and pictures and take the time to plan and think about your concrete project so you can ask the right questions and understand the answers.

STEP 2: Select Licensed Contractors Once you’ve narrowed down your list of potential contractors, do your due diligence – contact the concrete contractors (take note of their response times!) and ensure that they are licensed and insured. If a mishap occurred on the 20 YPNEXTHOME.CA

job, you want to ensure that you will not be held liable for it.

Professional contractors will be licensed, have general liability insurance coverage and worker’s compensation in place.

STEP 3: Compare Multiple Estimates When speaking with contractors, request an estimate on the project and ensure you’re comparing “apples to apples”. Do not always choose the least expensive quote – make sure to consider the quality of the materials, the expected quality of the work, your relationship with the contractor, the proposed project timeframe and any future guarantees or warranties on their work.

STEP 4: Check References + Ask for Pictures How reputable is the concrete contractor? If possible, evaluate their reputation by reading any online testimonials and reviews. Ask the contractor for a list of references and ask your friends and family if they have heard about the company or have experience working with them.

Ask the concrete contractor for pictures of recent projects. Most contractors maintain a portfolio to give customers confidence in their work and so that they can see examples of

STEP 5: Sign a Written Contract Never use a concrete contractor who refuses to provide you with a written contract - verbal agreements are not enough! Have your contractor explain exactly what work will be done and ensure that the written agreement clearly lays out the details of the project, including what supplies are included, the payment schedule, timeline for completion, defining qualities of the concrete, warranty provided, etc.

Carefully review the written agreement and only sign the contract when you are comfortable with all its terms.

For more information about selecting a professional concrete contractor in your area, visit www.cityminimix.com or access the Concrete Network at www.concretenetwork.com , a valuable independent resource for any and all concrete-related subjects.

Renée Majeau is co-owner of City MiniMix Concrete, a locally owned concrete manufacturing and delivery company who also manages any concrete project, big or small. For more information, visit www.cityminimix.com

THINK IT’S TILE? THINK AGAIN.

At first glance, U tile looks and even feels like ceramic tile. So what’s the difference?

Well, unlike ordinary tile, U tile solid shower wall panels are ready to install in less than a day.

No grout. No mess. No hassle.

IT’S NOT TILE. IT ’S U tile. utilebymaax.com SEPT - OCT, 2016 | HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 21

Builder Profile

HOME STYLE CONSTRUCTION’S

TOP 5 RENOVATION TIPS

By Salina Yara Halabi 22 YPNEXTHOME.CA

WITH OVER TWO SUCCESSFUL DECADES in the renovations industry, Home Style Construction is known for creating one-on-one personalized experiences for their customers. Their knowledgeable team can tackle even the most complex job, providing clients with an end result that is worth celebrating.

The Home Style Construction team is lead by President and Owner, Cal Tebb, who began working in home renovations 28 years ago. Cal’s passion and attention to detail founded Home Style Construction’s industry leading business practices, making them one of Edmonton’s most reputable and premiere renovation companies in the city. Cal and his team always ensure their work is to the highest of standards – a primary quality that lead to their 2014 title of Canadian Home Builders’ Association, Edmonton Region Awards of Excellence Renovator of the Year.

A trusted member of Renomark and the Canadian Home Builders Association, Home Style Construction offers complete design services for both interior and exterior projects. Each project is approached as a blank slate and is thoroughly planned and skilfully executed. Educating the customer is always a priority for Cal and his team both before and during the renovation process. Fully understanding and effectively evaluating project needs are essential to a successful renovation; therefore, ensuring everyone involved in the project is prepared and informed is a key component to Home Style Construction process. Here are Cal and the Home Style Construction team’s top five tips to keep in mind for your next home renovation: Do Your Homework Before you start any renovation you need to know exactly what you are getting yourself into. Whether you are working on a small DIY project or hiring a contractor, it is imperative that you do some preliminary research so that you know what questions to ask and what to expect. Researching styles and designs that reflect your personal taste is also a good idea. You want to make sure the

end result of your reno is something you love, so take the time to explore home design and renovation websites, stores, and trade shows for some inspiration!

Set Realistic Expectations Setting realistic expectations regarding timelines, budgets, and just overall process is a must. Renovations can be expensive and costs will vary depending on the materials you choose. Keep note that if you plan to do extensive renovations to your home, be prepared to

be in a construction zone for an extended period of time. You may not have access to certain spaces of your home during the process, so if you’re working on creating your dream kitchen keep in mind that you may not be able to use your kitchen while it’s being worked on.

Prepare for Surprises Even when the most thorough planning and preparation has been done for a renovation, surprises can still happen – especially in a large-scale project. It’s SEPT - OCT, 2016 | HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 23

always a good idea to have an emergency budget or fund in place. This is also something to factor in when setting timelines, so be sure to work with your contractor closely during the planning and scheduling phase. Having a little buffer space in your timeline and in your budget can be a huge lifesaver!

Skip the Trends It’s easy to fall in love with the hottest colours, styles, and designs in the market.

However, it’s important to remember that although you might love that flashy backsplash right now, you might not be so fond of it in a couple years.

Renovations are a huge investment, so choose finishes and materials that are more timeless than trendy.

Don’t Forget About Lighting Lighting is such an important factor in creating a great space. The way a room

is lit sets the tone and creates a specific mood, and the style of lighting you are hoping to include can drastically affect your overall budget. If you’re looking for a brighter area, be sure to have that worked into your plans from the start of renovation to ensure that proper electrical is worked into the space.

The team at Home Style Construction offers clients an unrivalled and professional experience from start to finish. Their attention to detail shines throughout each stage of the project, and it is what sets Home Style Construction apart from other renovators. Contact Cal and his team help with your next renovation project and get ready to be in the home of your dreams! To learn more about Home Style Construction visit their website at homestyleconstruction.ca, call 780.479.6032 or check us out on Facebook.

Tips And Tricks

THE SEASON FOR RENOVATION

BEFORE

While you are at it! A previous addition had left improper air flow and insulation problems was causing yearly ice damming issues for Sandy and Duff. The problem was fixed along with an amazing renovation of their whole house.

Photos courtesy of Aquarian Renovations

THE END OF SUMMER always serves as a reminder that we are heading into another school year and another season of living, complete with all the adventures we are willing to have. Just as the seasons change and the economy goes through twists and turns, our lives and our living spaces need different attention as well. Autumn is a vibrant time of the year and with Renovation month in October, our thoughts naturally lead to ensuring that the comforts of our homes are secure and ready for the ensuing winter.

You may be thinking.... “Are my windows sealing properly? Is the roof ready for the snow load? Did I take care of that ice damning issue? Do I need new weather stripping around my doors? How’s my furnace and hot water tank? Do I need to seriously start thinking about that major renovation my house needs and is now a good time to start planning for spring?”

26 YPNEXTHOME.CA

The answer to that question is “Yes!” These are all very logical and natural thoughts to have at this time of the year. Homeowners renovate for all kinds of reasons during all the seasons and the more thoughtful the planning and the pre-renovation work, the easier, more productive and stress free your renovation will be.

With October being Renovation Month, it is a perfect time to focus your attention on your home. Are there things that structurally need repair? How is that roof... the windows and doors... the foundation walls... are there moisture issues, what is the grading like around the exterior? If you could pick one room to renovate which one would it be? …Your kitchen... your ensuite? As a homeowner, having a running list of needs and wants for our home is a good idea. Just like a good checkup at the doctor’s office, your trusted renovator can help you identify problems and help you find solutions for your living space.

There are a number of very reliable and trustworthy Renovation Contractors in the Greater Edmonton area and RenoMark and the Canadian Home Builder’s Association Edmonton Region websites have information that will support you in finding a great contractor for your project. Finding the right connection for all parties concerned requires due diligence for both the homeowner and the contractor. Asking for referrals from your contractor and having a series of meaningful questions and a guideline of what to expect from a professional renovator is essential for effective planning.

A feeling of synergy between a homeowner and their renovator is such an important ingredient as a renovation is a very personal experience. Your renovation contractor is going to get to know you, the homeowner on a very personal level. They will be in your

space, observing your lifestyle habits, meeting your pets, learning about family patterns, they will know your likes and dislikes and personal tastes. Understanding that a healthy working relationship between homeowner and contractor is essential will set your experience up for success. Compatibility, along with professionalism in the renovation industry is essential for this relationship to work.

The Canadian Home Builder’s Association Edmonton Region (CHBA ER) Reno Mark is an excellent resource connecting you to reputable and professional renovation companies with whom you can confidently proceed with your home renovation needs.

If your project is particularly large it is ideal to hire a renovation company who can take your project from the design, through the build, and into the post construction phase.

The RenoMark symbol identifies renovation contractors who are members in good standing with Canadian Home Builders’ Association and abide to the Association’s code of ethics. These renovation companies also have made many important commitments including: » Returning phone calls within two business days » Offering a minimum two year warranty on all work (excludes minor home repair) » Carrying a minimum $2 million liability insurance » Providing a detailed written scope of work and contract for all jobs » Having coverage for workplace safely and employers’ liability and only work with subcontractors who also carry such coverage. » Carrying all applicable licenses and permits » Maintaining a professional level of knowledge of current building codes, permit procedures, and technical skills through continuing education and membership in the Association » Maintaining a safe and organized worksite.

A reputable RenoMark renovator will answer your construction questions and be knowledgeable about the type of work you are wanting done. They will give you suggestions for cost-effective projects and help you with your design and product selection. The best proof of quality work is with satisfied customers. Ask your potential renovator to provide you with a list of references and don’t be shy about calling them.

Here are some effective questions to ask past customers: » What was your experience with this renovator and their trades’ people? » Were you satisfied with the quality of their work? » How did the renovator solve problems and make changes when they came up? » How did the renovator communicate and keep you informed about the job as it progressed? » Did the renovation crew keep the site clean and orderly? » Was the work done on schedule? » Would you hire this renovator again or recommend their company to your friends or family?

If you get a positive sense of wanting to work with this contractor you will also want to follow up with questions about their systems. Some renovators who are design-build will give you a fixed price, which includes all materials, labour, equipment fees contingencies, overhead and profit. Other renovators use a “cost-plus” method for contracts.

This means you pay the contractor for the cost of labour, materials, equipment and a percentage for overhead and profit.

Cost-plus contracts leave costs openended, so it is best to set a limit so costs don’t get out of hand. The design/build contract needs more planning up front but often saves problems and overruns as the job unfolds because it’s been meticulously planned and it is in writing.

Be sure to talk about these important elements as you make your selection for the right renovator for your project. You should expect a fair price based on the complexity of the job, the skill level and intangibles like reputation and warranty.

Remember, a reputable renovator will always give you the contract in writing!

Expect it! Choose your renovator wisely and enjoy creating remarkable results together.

For more information visit the local RenoMark website @ http://www.renomark.ca/ edmontonregion. When it comes to choosing a renovation professional, you can rest assured that RenoMark will help you choose from the industry’s best.

*Resources included: Canadian Homebuilders Association “The Get it in Writing Handbook” and RenoMark Website

RENOMARK EDMONTON – WWW.RENOMARK.CA The program identifies those renovation contractors who have agreed to CHBA – Edmonton Region’s code of ethics, as well as a renovationspecific code of conduct, they provide warranties, understand the value of customer service, and continually educate themselves regarding current trends, materials and regulations.

SEPT - OCT, 2016 | HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 27

Tips and Tricks

Decoding

THE CODE

By Michael Nyikes

Q A

I received an email asking whether the work being done on the Big City Charters Agreement by the municipalities of Calgary and Edmonton will impact the provincial building code requirements in those two cities.

This is a very interesting question and somewhat difficult to answer because of the current timeline of the initiative.

For a bit of backgrounder, in October 2014 the Government of Alberta, the City of Calgary, and City of Edmonton signed an agreement to develop a Big City Charters to support the cities’ unique needs, strengthen their relationship with the province and benefit all Albertans by building strong, vibrant cities that attract trade, investment and economic diversification. Work began to create special legislation to provide Alberta’s two largest cities with tools that recognized their sophistication, and gave them the ability to better manage the challenges of rapid population growth and the subsequent demands put on social programs and infrastructure systems.

Throughout the Summer of 2016, Alberta’s Municipal Affairs Ministry travelled to 20 cities and towns in Alberta to collect input around modernizing the Municipal Government Act, which guides how all municipalities in Alberta shape their communities.

This Fall engagement will begin on Big City Charters for Calgary and Edmonton. Stakeholders, members of the public and elected officials will review and provide feedback in a series of sessions with project experts. Next steps in the Spring 2017 will be for city charters to be drafted for Calgary and Edmonton in order to best meet the needs of their residents and communities. Each city charter will be a regulation under the Municipal Government Act. It is expected

28 YPNEXTHOME.CA

that the new Big City Charters will then be enacted in Summer of 2017.

Some of the discussions may indeed be directed at establishing “Municipal Building Codes” to suit the unique requirements of Alberta’s two largest cities.

This is currently in place in Vancouver whereas the City of Vancouver Building By-Law 2014 is based on the BC Building Code and includes unique provisions regulating the design and construction of buildings in the City of Vancouver. There are mixed reviews on the success of this in addressing challenges by large urban governments by providing more flexibility and tools than small municipalities to respond to local matters. The intent of these types of charters is to clarify roles and responsibilities so the strengths of all parties are best used to find innovative solutions.

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

Michael Nyikes 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

Tips and Tricks

AN ORGANIZED

EFFORT

By Jane Lockhart

LIVING IN A SMALL SPACE MEANS MAXIMIZING storage and ridding yourself of unneeded items. It’s sometimes tempting to take everything with you for those “just in case” moments. But starting fresh has its advantages when it comes to making the most of storage options to max out their usefulness.

No matter if you are moving into a new house or condo, no one ever says they have enough closet space, so making the most of what you have is critical. Investing in closet organizers in the bedroom that provide shelves, both short and long, hanging as well as drawers and shoe storage will be invaluable.

You will be happy you took the time to do this as you move in and create a new life and new routines. Leaving a closet undone will simply waste space in the end.

Another area to make sure you maximize space is in the front hall closet. Being Canadian means we have a lot of different seasonal coats and footwear and this needs to go somewhere!

Think about adding shelves, drawers and hooks to this closet as well. Make sure the doors to the closet are swing doors if possible and not sliders, as sliders can make closet access difficult.

Another place to create useful organization is the linen closet. Be sure to update this space with lots of shelving prior to using it. A tip that will help maximize your storage within your linen closet is to tightly fold each sheet set and then

place them inside the corresponding pillowcase. This will help you stay organized, allow you to see all of the linen sets and will keep everything together.

Store unused items in bins that fit under a bed, or purchase a new bed with built-in drawers that tuck under the mattress.

This is a big area, so make sure it is efficiently used – particularly in a condo! This is a good place to store out-ofseason items, as they will be out of sight and mind until they are needed.

If you have the height and budget, build upward! Create a wall unit that goes to the ceiling so you not only elevate the visual height, you take advantage of this extra storage space.

In the area, you can store items such as CDs, DVDs, books and photo albums. These items can take up lots of space if not stored efficiently, so make sure to buy storage solutions specifically created for these items.

If your home is being built brand new, request additional outlets in easy-to-access places to cut down on the clutter of power cords. Consider adding extra receptacles under the cabinets in kitchens to maximize counter space, and a few extra in the bed and bathroom, so that you have enough space for chargers, your hair dryer and shaver.

And never forget, there are great accessories that can be added within kitchen cabinets and under sinks for better organization and easier access.

Good organization may take a little more time and money in the beginning, but it will definitely be worth the effort in the end.

Jane Lockhart is founder and principal designer of Jane Lockhart Interior Design. She was creative director and host of W Network’s top-ranked show, Colour Confidential, and has a Canadian-built furniture collection, Jane by Jane Lockhart, by Statum Designs. Visit online at janelockhart.com

SEPT - OCT, 2016 | HOME DECOR AND RENOVATIONS 29

PRODUCT & SERVICES DIRECTORY CONCERTE City MiniMix Concrete Inc 780.974.7969 info@cityminimix.com www.cityminimix.com FLOORING Touchtone Canada Ltd. 4120 89 Street 780.414.0862 www.touchtonecanada.com Payless Wholesale Flooring & Lighting 18415-104 Ave 780.487.2700 www.paylessfloors.ca H O M E R E N OVAT I O N S A Cut Above Living 780.244.0504 acutaboveliving.com Ackard Contractors Ltd. 780.414.0686 www.ackard.com Aquarian Renovations 780.481.7671 www.aquarianrenovations.com Appollo Sunrooms 780.466.1952 www.apollosunrooms.com Benjamin Matthew Contracting Ltd 780-686-4273 www.benjaminmatthew.ca Coogee Construction Ltd. 780.454.1513 www.coogeeconstruction.ca Diamond Contracting 780.433.3166 www.diamondcontractingab.ca Effect Home Builders Ltd. 780 450-1399 www.effecthomes.ca Fortress Homes & Renovations 780.660.1026 www.fortresshomes.ca Full House Renovations 780.483.2666 www.fullhouserenovations.com

Homestyle Construction Ltd. 780-479-6032 www.homestyleconstruction.ca

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Innovation Plus Developments Ltd 780 434-0923 www.innovationplus.ca Rencon Industries Inc. 780.986.2160 www.renconindustries.ca Renovations of Excellence 780.441.1243 www.wedorenos.com renos@telusplanet.net Revolving Rooms Interior Design Inc. 780.465.8071 www.revolvingrooms.ca Serenity Contracting & Design Inc. 780.435.6304 www.serenitycontracting.ca KITCHENS Kitchen & Bath Classics 18404 116th Ave. 780.452.0340 www.kitchenandbathclassics.com Towne and Countree Kitchens 17212 107 Ave. 780.489.3331 www.towneandcountree.com

TILE Tile’s Trend #7 445 Parsons Road Ph: 780.485.2277 tilestrend@gmail.com www.tilestrend.com

WINDOWS Durabuilt Windows & Doors West 10920-178 St. 780.455.0440 South 8605 Argyll Rd 780.463.4466

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RENOVATING? DON’T KNOW WHERE TO START?

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